Hong Kong: Environment chief speaks in Dubai

Secretary for Environment & Ecology Tse Chin-wan yesterday attended a reception in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, where he delivered a keynote speech on Hong Kongs decarbonisation strategies to young engineers.

Speaking at the event, which was organised by the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office in Dubai, the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (HKIE) and the Hong Kong Climate Change Forum, Mr Tse said young engineers innovative ideas and technical expertise have a crucial role to play in combating climate change and forging a path of sustainable development.

He also highlighted the business opportunities arising from decarbonisation and green transformation, as well as the challenges faced by professionals.

After the reception, the environment chief exchanged views with the HKIE delegation and with other professionals and young engineers attending the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28). About 100 engineers in Hong Kong also joined the session via video conferencing.

In the morning, Mr Tse visited a showcase by i2Cool, a Hong Kong company, in the Dubai Mall. The companys product, iPaint, can lower a buildings surface temperature and indoor temperature, thereby reducing its energy consumption.

In the afternoon, he visited the exhibition booths at COP28 of two companies under the Science & Technology Parks Corporation, namely M Concept Studio and Neuron Digital. He was briefed by the exhibitors on various green technology solutions.

Mr Tse will conclude his visit to Dubai after attending the COP28 China Corner Side Event today.

This story has been published on: 2023-12-06. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
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A 35-year-old woman was arrested Tuesday after she was identified as the person who robbed a retail business in the Lakeview neighborhood several times in recent months, Chicago police said.

Maisha Rowe of the 4100 block of North Ravenswood Avenue was taken into custody in the 2700 block of South California Avenue after being identified as the person who robbed a retail business, police said.

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The business, located in 2400 block of North Clark Street, was robbed at gunpoint on Oct. 30, twice on Oct. 31 and once on Nov. 16, police said.

Rowe implied she was carrying a weapon, and made off with property before fleeing the scene.

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She was charged with four felony counts of robbery and aggravated robbery with a firearm. She was scheduled to appear Wednesday at a detention hearing .
The Japanese surprise attack at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, killed nearly 2,500 people and devastated U.S. military forces based in Hawaii. However, in the midst of the death and destruction, heroic servicemen performed acts of bravery to fight back against the attackers and save their comrades. Fifteen men were awarded the Medal of Honor, America's highest military decoration, for such actions on that infamous day.

These are the 15 Medal of Honor recipients from Pearl Harbor

1. Capt. Mervyn S. Bennion

(Naval Historical Center)

As captain of the battleship USS West Virginia (BB-48), Capt. Bennion dutifully directed his sailors in defense of the ship during the attack. When the nearby USS Tennessee (BB-43) was hit by a bomb, shrapnel cut through West Virginia and wounded Bennion. His sailors attempted to move him to the aid station for treatment, but Bennion refused to leave his post. Eventually, Bennion ordered them to leave him and save themselves. Holding his wounds closed with one arm, he continued to command the ship until he died of blood loss.

2. Chief Aviation Ordnanceman John W. Finn

(U.S. Navy)

Chief Finn was at home when the attack on Pearl Harbor started. Upon driving down to his squadron at Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay, he found most of their PBY Catalina flying boats already on fire. Despite this, some of his men manned the guns inside the burning planes while others removed the guns and mounted them on makeshift stands. Taking a .50-cal machine gun from a painter, Finn mounted it on a moveable gunnery training platform and moved into the open for a clear field of fire. Over the next two hours, he blasted away at Japanese planes while taking heavy fire himself. Finn suffered 21 distinct wounds but continued to fight back. After the attack and despite his wounds, Finn helped arm the surviving aircraft to fly patrols around Hawaii.

(Naval Historical Center)

Ens. Flaherty was aboard his ship, USS Oklahoma (BB-37), when three torpedos ripped through her sides. As the battleship started to capsize, men abandoned ship and jumped into the water. However, Flaherty remained in one of the gun turrets, providing light so the crew could escape. When Oklahoma capsized completely, Flaherty and many of his shipmates were trapped inside the hull. Although 32 crewmen were rescued in the following days, he was not one of them.

4. Lt. Cdr. Samuel G. Fuqua

(Naval Historical Center)

When a bomb hit the stern of the USS Arizona (BB-39), the explosion knocked Damage Control Officer Lt. Cdr. Fuqua unconscious. When he came to, Fuqua directed firefighting efforts to save the ship as well as the rescue of wounded sailors. Even after Arizona's forward magazines exploded, shaking the whole ship and setting fires all throughout, Fuqua remained calm and directed the crew in their duties. Moreover, he was also Arizona's surviving senior officer. When Fuqua realized that the ship could not be saved, he gave the order to abandon ship. Directing the evacuation from the quarterdeck, Fuqua abandoned his post only after he was certain that all surviving crewmen had already left.

5. Chief Boatswain Edwin J. Hill

(Public Domain)

USS Nevada (BB-36) is the only battleship that attempted to escape Pearl Harbor during the attack. She was only able to do so because of Chief Hill. After diving off the back of the ship and into the harbor, he climbed onto the dock and released Nevada from her mooring. Hill then dove back into the water, caught up to the battleship as she steamed away, and climbed back aboard to lead his sailors. The 47-year-old chief, with 30 years of Naval service, directed the young 17 and 18 year olds to take cover behind the ship's turrets as Japanese planes strafed the ship. Hill attempted to drop Nevada's anchor when a bomb struck the ship's bow, killing him and 46 other sailors.

6. Ens. Herbert C. Jones

(Naval Historical Center)

Ens. Jones was about to take over his watch on the USS California (BB-44) when a torpedo and bomb struck the ship. Trying to rescue a wounded shipmate, Jones dove into a cloud of smoke and crawled along oily decks until he passed out from the fumes. When he came to, Jones directed an antiaircraft battery in defense of the ship. With the ammunition hoist out of action, he organized a supply party to haul ammunition up from belowdecks. When a bomb struck near the men and wounded Jones, he ordered them to save themselves. "Leave me alone! I am done for," he told them. "Get out of here before the magazines go off."

7. Rear Adm. Isaac C. Kidd

(Naval Historical Center)

As Commander Battleship Division ONE, Chief of Staff and Aide to the Commander of the Battleship Battle Force and Senior Officer Present Afloat aboard the flagship, USS Arizona (BB-39), Rear Adm. Kidd made straight for the ship's bridge at the start of the Japanese attack. Even as the ship's magazine exploded, he remained at his post and courageously discharged his duties. Kidd continued to do so until a direct bomb hit on the bridge killed him. He is the highest-ranking casualty at Pearl Harbor, the first U.S. Navy flag officer killed in action during WWII, and the first killed in action against any foreign enemy.

8. Gunner Jackson C. Pharris

(Navy History and Heritage Command)

Gunner Pharris was on the third deck of the USS California (BB-44), in charge of an ordnance repair part, when the first torpedo struck the ship almost directly beneath his station. Thrown into the air, Pharris suffered a concussion and was stunned, but sprung into action once he recovered. Without orders, he organized a working party to hand ammunition up to the antiaircraft guns from belowdecks. After the second torpedo struck California, Pharris ordered shipfitters to counterflood and combat the list. During all of this, he also braved nauseous fumes to rescue unconscious shipmates from flooding compartments, twice falling unconscious himself. Pharris was awarded the Navy Cross, which was later upgraded to the Medal of Honor.

9. Chief Radioman Thomas J. Reeves

(Naval Historical Center)

Chief Reeves was also assigned to the crew of the California. When the ship's mechanized ammunition hoists were rendered inoperable, he assisted in hand-supplying antiaircraft ammunition on his own initiative. Reeves did so in a burning passageway, with complete disregard for his own safety, until he was overcome by smoke and fire.

10. Chief Machinist Donald K. Ross

(U.S. Navy)

USS Nevada (BB-36) was only able to get underway during the attack because she had power. This was provided by her dynamo (electrical generator) rooms. When the forward dynamo room filled with smoke and steam, Chief Ross ordered his sailors to abandon their posts and continued to work alone until he was blinded and fell unconscious. After he was rescued and resuscitated, Ross returned to secure the forward dynamo room and worked in the aft dynamo room until he collapsed from exhaustion. When he gained consciousness, he continued to carry out his duties until Nevada was beached.

11. Machinist's Mate First Class Robert R. Scott

(Naval Historical Center)

When USS California (BB-44) was hit by a torpedo, a compartment containing an air compressor for the guns began to flood. The men stationed in the compartment abandoned their posts as the water rose around them. However, MM1 Scott refused. "This is my station and I will stay and give them air as long as the guns are going," he told his shipmates. True to his word, Scott remained at his station until the end.

12. Chief Watertender Peter Tomich

(Naval Historical Center)

When Pearl Harbor was attacked, USS Utah (AG-16) had already been converted from a battleship to a target ship. However, she was still a target for the Japanese and was torpedoed and bombed. As the ship began to capsize, Chief Tomich remained at his station in the boiler room. He secured the boilers and ensured that other men escaped, sacrificing his own life to do so.

13. Captain Franklin Van Valkenburgh

Capt. Van Valkenburgh took command of the USS Arizona (BB-39) less than a year before the attack on Pearl Harbor. When the Japanese struck, the skipper ran straight from his cabin to the navigation bridge to command the ship's defense. A quartermaster in the pilot room asked Van Valkenburgh if he would prefer to command from the conning tower which was less exposed to Japanese strafing; he refused. When an explosion rocked Arizona, Van Valkenburgh, along with the quartermaster and an ensign, were thrown to the deck as the windows of the bridge all blew out. Although the ensign managed to escape, the skipper and the quartermaster were never seen again. Fed by ammunition and oil, fire raged aboard Arizona until December 9. Despite a thorough search, Van Valkenburg's body was never recovered; only his Annapolis class ring.

14. Seaman First Class James R. Ward

(U.S. Navy)

Seaman Ward joined the Navy just over a year before Pearl Harbor. His first assignment out of basic training was the USS Oklahoma (BB-37). After taking three torpedo hits, she began to capsize and the order was given to abandon ship. Despite this, Ward remained in a turret and held a flashlight so his shipmates could escape. In doing so, he sacrificed his own life to save theirs.

15. Commander Cassin Young

(U.S. Navy)

At Pearl Harbor, Cdr. Young was the skipper of the repair ship USS Vestal (AR-4), which was damaged by both Japanese bombs and explosions from the USS Arizona (BB-39) moored next to her. Despite the damage, Young directed offensive fire from his ship, even manning one of the anti-aircraft guns himself. When Arizona's forward magazine exploded, he was thrown overboard. Shaking off the concussion, Young swam through burning oil and climbed back aboard Vestal. Determined to save his ship, Young got Vestal underway and successfully beached her.

Midway - 1st Lt. George H. Cannon

(U.S. Marine Corps)

Although not at Pearl Harbor, Lt. Cannon was awarded the Medal of Honor for actions at Midway Atoll during the simultaneous Japanese surprise attack there. Shelling by two Japanese destroyers hit the command building and communications building. Although he was wounded by shrapnel, Cannon refused medical treatment until his Marines were treated first. He also worked to restore communications. As a result, Cannon died of blood loss by the time he was treated. He was the first Marine to receive the Medal of Honor during WWII.
The family of a 24-year-old man fatally shot by Illinois police on Dec. 1 says he may have been experiencing emotional distress at the time of the incident, according to the familys attorney.

Jack Murray, of Elk Grove Village, had called police in the past when he was experiencing physical or mental health crises that may have been brought on by his Type 1 diabetes, according to a Dec. 4 news release from Romanucci & Blandin Law. Police confirmed to WBBM they had previously responded to calls at Murrays home.

We believe that may have been what happened on Friday, December 1, the familys attorney Antonio M. Romanucci said.

That day, Murray was wielding a knife when officers responded to a 911 call at his residence, according to an Elk Grove Village Police Department Dec. 1 news release.

The family said police then shot and killed Murray outside, just a few doors away from the Murray family home.

Murrays family has called for the release of body camera and dash camera footage, the 911 call and and video from all prior encounters with Murray, Romanucci said.

Police said in a Dec. 4 update they plan on releasing the requested 911 call, as well as body and dash cam footage and audio, the release said.

The department said it is cooperating with an independent investigation into the incident led by the Major Case Assistance Team.

Five of the responding officers have been placed on temporary administrative leave as the investigation continues, police said.

The family has opened a civil investigation with the Chicago-based firm into Murrays shooting death, focusing on the police departments use of lethal force, Romanucci & Blandin Law said.

The Elk Grove Village Police Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment from McClatchy News on Dec. 5.

Elk Grove Village is about 25 miles northwest of Chicago.

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Former Ald. Edward Burke leaves the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago during a lunch break in his corruption trial on Dec. 6, 2023. (Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune)

A former executive involved in the remodeling of a Southwest Side Burger King testified Wednesday that an early meeting about the project where then-Ald. Edward Burke demanded charitable donations and other concessions felt like a shakedown.

Jeff MacDonald, who was in charge in the early stages of the renovation of the restaurant in Burkes 14th Ward, also told the jury in Burkes corruption trial that the alderman asked him at the end of the March 2017 meeting who did the property tax work for MacDonalds Houston-based bosses.

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MacDonald testified his response to Burke was that I didnt know, and that it was probably done out of Houston, adding that Burke seemed irritated and the whole meeting, which was also attended by Burkes longtime ward aide Peter Andrews Jr., made him uncomfortable.

Lawyers for the defense seized on those comments in cross examination, however, pointing out that MacDonald had never mentioned anything about Burkes alleged inquiry into property tax work when he was interviewed at length by the FBI in April 2019.

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MacDonald, who at the time was regional director of Downers Grove-based Tri-City Foods, also had not mentioned it in any of the emails he sent to colleagues about the 2017 meeting with Burke, even though hed listed other issues the powerful alderman had raised, such as an outdated driveway permit and trucks parking in the Burger King lot overnight.

In fact, the first time MacDonald mentioned it to anybody was just a few weeks ago when he was interviewed in preparation for his trial testimony, attorney Patrick Blegen, who represents Andrews, pointed out, showing MacDonald the interview report.

Are you the kind of person whose memory gets better the further away you get from an event? Blegen asked somewhat rhetorically, leading the judge to sustain an objection from prosecutors.

Blegen suggested MacDonald came up with new information after reading stories about the charges against Burke in the newspaper.

Fumbling a bit for answers, MacDonald admitted he knew (the case) involved Burger King and the remodel, but not specifically anything about Burke requesting tax appeal work.

Burkes attorney, Chris Gair, also took aim at MacDonalds claim that Burkes request for donations to local charities such as the Greater Chicago Food Depository and the Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council were somehow untoward, as well as his comment in an email that driveway permits were just another money grab by the city.

You used the term shakedown for a philanthropic request for the Chicago Food Depository. ... Did you know that they serve 77 million meals a year to hungry people in Chicago? Gair asked.

I didnt know that, MacDonald said.

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The second suggestion from Burke was to hire young people who needed work that had been sent over by the Back of the Yards group, Gair noted.

I recall he mentioned it as a potential philanthropic opportunity, MacDonald said after a long pause.

You didnt actually feel that that was a shakedown did you sir? Gair said.

It felt like a shakedown, MacDonald insisted.

Gair also asked MacDonald about a law enforcement report showing hed recently told agents that another, unidentified alderman once hit him up to buy a table at a political fundraiser. MacDonald testified he didnt remember saying that.

Sir, do you have memory issues? Gair asked.

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Prosecutors objected and it was sustained.

MacDonald was among nearly a dozen witnesses called so far in the Burger King episode, one of four alleged schemes outlined in the racketeering indictment against Burke.

According to the charges, when the owners of the Burger King dragged their feet on hiring Burkes firm to do property tax appeals, Burke allegedly enlisted the help of Andrews to shut down the renovation project over drummed-up permit issues.

[ Ed Burke trial: What you need to know ]

Also testifying Wednesday were two witnesses from the architectural firm that worked on the renovation, as well as two underlings who dealt with the Burger King permit issue at the citys Department of Buildings.

Late in the day, prosecutors called Judy Frydland, the former Buildings commissioner, who also factors into other episodes in the indictment involving the Old Post Office renovation and a Binnys Beverage Depot pole sign application.

Frydland, who stepped down in 2020 after a three-decade career at City Hall, testified her dealings with Burke were limited to hellos in the hallways and maybe a dozen phone conversations where he wanted to talk about a Buildings Department issue in his ward.

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She said aldermen often called her department with complaints or other items, but it was neighbor disputes  not the aldermen  that were the toughest to handle.

They couldnt shut down the project could they? asked Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Chapman.

No, but they did call every single day, she said, drawing laughter in the courtroom.

In November 2017, Frydland did meet with one the Burger King owners, as well as the architect, Warren Johnson, about the project, but she said it was largely a meet-and-greet and the permitting issues theyd had were only briefly touched on.

Her testimony is expected to continue Thursday.

[ Ex-Ald. Ed Burke corruption trial: Evidence seen and heard by the jury ]

Burke, 79, who served 54 years as alderman before leaving the City Council in May, is charged with 14 counts including racketeering, federal program bribery, attempted extortion, conspiracy to commit extortion and using interstate commerce to facilitate an unlawful activity.

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Andrews, 73, is charged with one count of attempted extortion, one count of conspiracy to commit extortion, two counts of using interstate commerce to facilitate an unlawful activity and one count of making a false statement to the FBI.

A third defendant, Lake Forest developer Charles Cui, 52, is not charged as part of the Burger King episode. Hes facing counts of federal program bribery, using interstate commerce to facilitate an unlawful activity, and making a false statement to the FBI.

The high-profile trial, which has been twice delayed by COVID-19 issues since beginning Nov. 6, is still on track to finish before the Christmas holiday. Prosecutors told U.S. District Virginia Kendall they expect to rest their case in chief by Tuesday.

Prosecutors spent much of Wednesday diving into the nitty-gritty bureaucracy involved with the permitting process at City Hall, including whether the owners who had acquired the 14th Ward Burger King had properly reapplied for a driveway permit before starting the renovation.

On Oct. 26, 2017, after Andrews ordered the Burger King construction site shut down, Johnson, the architect, frantically emailed Buildings Department employee Hal Hutchinson and others, saying he found it to be a quite disturbing power move by the aldermans office.

This does not seem right that Burke can shut this project down since they had their permit, the email read.

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Hutchinson looked into it but could not find any evidence of a stop work order issued by the Buildings Department, and told Johnson to take it up with Burke, according to his trial testimony.

On cross examination by Andrews attorney Todd Pugh, Hutchinson acknowledged the email from Johnson had mistakenly referenced special use permits, which have to do with the Burger King drive-thru, not the driveways.

The defense has contended that the driveway issue was of legitimate concern to the aldermans office as it would expose the city to liability if the permit was not current.

The highlight the Burger King testimony this week came from Zohaib Dhanani, a vice president for the company founded by his father, Dhanani Group, which owned about 160 Burger Kings in the Chicago area, including the one being renovated in Burkes ward.

Dhanani was among a series of witnesses to paint Burke as wearing two hats, both as the City Councils most powerful and longest-serving alderman and as a private lawyer prowling for business for his firm, Klafter & Burke.

Dhanani was asked Tuesday about a phone call he had with Burke on June 27, 2017, two weeks after he and his father met with Burke at the Burger King site on South Pulaski Road, where they talked about a driveway permit as well as complaints about trucks parking overnight in the lot.

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It was after that meeting that Burke took the Dhananis to lunch at the Beverly Country Club and first pitched his law firm to them, according to testimony.

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In the call, Burke got down to brass tacks, saying, We were going to talk about the real estate tax representation and you were going to have somebody get in touch with me so we can expedite your permits, Burke said.

Im sorry, Mr. Burke, what was that last part? Dhanani responded.

Dhanani told Burke he would follow up with the architect about the necessary driveway permit and have somebody from our Houston office reach out to you regarding the property taxes since that wasnt something he normally handled.

OK, good, Burke said. I look forward to hearing from you and thanks for being responsive.

Though steps were taken by Dhanani group to give business to Burke, no deal was ever finalized, according to testimony.

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jmeisner@chicagotribune.com
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Several law enforcement agencies throughout the Wasatch Front cracked down on retail theft resulting in 28 arrests and about $12,000 of recovered stolen property in a sweeping multi-day sting known as Operation Holiday Steals.

The Utah Attorney Generals Office said the operation focused on those stealing from nine retailers who participated in the sing, including Home Depot, Nordstrom, Target and more. Among those who were apprehended were two Adult Probation and Parole fugitives, one parole violator, one narcotics arrest and a felony arrest of an organized retail theft crew that had been charged with similar crimes in multiple states.

Real estate agents: Coxs recommendations a start for Utahs housing crisis

Four of the individuals led officers on foot pursuits and several of them had specific tools used for removing security devices from merchandise in their possession, reported the AGs Office. One individual had eight counterfeit $100 bills in his possession.

Salt Lake City Police Chief Mike Brown commended the work of his departments officers and detectives as well as the coordination between every agency throughout the valley.

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Operations like this send a clear message that thieves will not have impunity here in Salt Lake City, said Chief Brown. Our local retail industry connects our community to the world, and retail theft is a serious offense that impacts everyone.

FBI crime data shows property crime in Utah has been on a steady decline, despite seeing a small bump in 2020. In 2022, there were over 60,000 property crime incidents, most of which reportedly happened at residential homes. Department stores and discount store property crimes accounted for 7% of all property crimes in Utah last year.

Salt Lake City Police said property crime is down 13% in Utahs capital and violent crime is down 12%, year-over-year. Still, SLCPD said this sting serves as a good reminder for community members to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement by calling 911.

Never engage with thieves, warned SLCPD in a press release. Instead, prioritize being a good witness and quickly notifying law enforcement.

The Utah Attorney Generals Crimes Against State Economy (CASE) Strike Force led the operation with the help of police forces in Cottonwood Heights, Salt Lake City, Taylorsville, Sandy, South Salt Lake and agents from Adult Probation and Parole, the State Fire Marshall and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
At least three German shepherds are dead after they were hit on a highway in Canyon Country on Monday, according to the Santa Clarita Valley Signal.

The dogs, which were initially thought to be coyotes, were hit at about 12:40 a.m. on the northbound side of Highway 14 at Sand Canyon Road, California Highway Patrol Officer Josh Greengard told the Signal.

Officers found the dogs dead at the scene.

The origin of the canines is unknown.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
** Watch prior coverage in the player above. **

AKRON, Ohio (WJW)  Three Akron men were sentenced to decades in prison for a gunfight that killed a pregnant woman caught in the crossfire.

Summit County Common Pleas Court Judge Alison McCarty sentenced 20-year-old Darrion Rackley, 17-year-old Antonil Whitaker and 22-year-old Jeremiah Williams for their involvement in the death of 21-year-old Teyaurra Harris.

20-year-old Darrion Rackley, 17-year-old Antonil Whitaker and 22-year-old Jeremiah Williams

According to court documents, the three Akron men, who were in one vehicle, were involved in a gunfight with another vehicle in the 1400 block of Rockaway Street on April 14, 2022.

What prompted police activity in downtown Cleveland

Harris was a passenger in a third vehicle driving by at the time. During the gunfire, Harris, who was six months pregnant, was shot in the head.

She was taken to the Cleveland Clinic Akron General, where she was later pronounced brain dead.

Another 19-year-old woman suffered from non-life-threatening injuries.

Rackley, Whitaker and Williams pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and felonious assault charges.

On Tuesday, Rackley was sentenced to 34 to 39.5 years in prison, Whitaker was sentenced to 20 to 24 years in prison and Williams was sentenced to 20 to 24 years in prison.

Police: Man who fired shots at officers before Virginia house exploded is dead

In June, Jaeviaire Small was sentenced to four years in prison for aggravated assault, having a weapon under disability and carrying a concealed weapon.

In September, Jaunte Smith was sentenced to two and a half years in prison for aggravated assault.

According to prosecutors, Lenier Worthy, the last defendant in the case, has a pre-trial set for Dec. 20.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
A second person has been arrested for murder in a July shooting in Chester, South Carolina police said.

Antonio Woods Heath, 33, of Rock Hill, is charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime in a July 23 shooting death, according to the State Law Enforcement Division. Darion A.A. Jones, 22, of Chester, was killed in the shooting, according to the Chester County Coroner.

Jones died after he was shot several times off Saluda Street north of downtown Chester, according to an arrest warrant obtained by The Herald. A shot to the head was fatal, according to a warrant.

Heath fired at Jones several times in what the warrant says was an ambush.

Heath was taken into custody Monday more than four months after the killing, according to SLED and Chester County Sheriffs Office jail records.

Jessica Bonita Camps, 32, of Union County, S.C., was charged Monday with obstructing justice for allegedly concealing and harboring Heath before he was taken into custody, according to SLED and an arrest warrant.

SLED and William Petty, Chester police chief, confirmed to The Herald that Heath is the second person charged with murder in the July killing.

Days after the shooting in July, police charged John Antionia Frenchis Lowery, 31, of Chester, with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime, police and court records show. The warrant against Lowery stated he and a co-defendant who also shot at Jones fled after the shooting in a gray Nissan.

Both Heath and Lowery remain in the Chester County jail, records show.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Four women are suing New Mexico State University and an individual university employee, alleging they suffered sexual abuse by the employee who was a commercial drivers license examiner working for the school.

The suit was filed Monday, Dec. 4 in the 2nd Judicial District Court in Bernalillo County.

All four women, identified as Jane Does 1 through 4, were enrolled in New Mexico States commercial drivers license training and certification program. They allege they were sexually abused by the employee identified as Adrian L. Gutierrez.

The NMSU Board of Regents, RVs Transportation, Native Nations CDL Training and ABQ Truck Driving School were also named in the suit.

According to the complaint, Gutierrez was placed on administrative leave after a separate claim alleging sexual abuse this summer.

All of the alleged assaults happened in and around the Las Vegas, New Mexico, area.

New Mexico State University said it does not discuss pending litigation in a statement sent to KTSM.

Adrian Gutierrez is currently employed with NMSU, but is on unpaid administrative leave, according to the statement.

According to court documents obtained by KTSM, Defendant Gutierrezs conduct towards Jane Does 1-4 was unlawful, threatening, and menacing conduct from which the Jane Does reasonably perceived an immediate battery.

They are seeking punitive damages in the suit. Three of the plaintiffs are from Bernalillo County and one is from Valencia County.

One of the plaintiffs said that during CDL certification testing, she was told by Gutierrez to do an emergency roadside stop. She believed this was part of the test and complied.

Once stopped, according to court documents, Gutierrez told her that she was beautiful and a really cool girl.

He then asked if she was a good kisser.

The plaintiff said she was extremely uncomfortable and found the question weird.

Gutierrez then replied, Lets find out, and forcibly kissed her on the mouth, according to court documents.

He also fondled her under her shirt, according to the court documents.

Gutierrez then allegedly threatened to fail her on the test if she said anything to anyone and threatened to make her come back to see him.

After the test, the plaintiff told her long-term boyfriend about the incident.

The other three plaintiffs told different details, some quite graphic in nature, but all related that Gutierrez sexually abused them and that he said he would pass them if they complied or not tell anyone about the incidents.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
After a nearly 10-month impasse over Defense Department nominations in the Senate, the chamber advanced the promotions of more than 400 officers on Tuesday, filling leadership roles across the military services.

The breakthrough came after Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., dropped his hold on fast confirmation of the senior military members. He had been protesting the Pentagons decision to grant leave time and travel stipends to troops forced to travel across state lines for abortion services because of local laws.

Earlier in the day, Defense Department spokesman Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder warned that even with the promotions now approved, getting personnel into their new offices and leadership roles will take time. Individual services will be working in coming weeks to work out exactly when change of command ceremonies and personnel moves will take place.

Heres a look at all of the officers who were confirmed on Tuesday:

Air Force

Lt. Gen Scott L. Pleus, Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Director of Staff, U.S. Air Force

Lt. Gen. Donna D. Shipton, Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Commander, Air Force, Life Cycle Management Center, Air Force, Materiel Command

Lt. Gen. Jeffrey A. Kruse, Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Director, Defense Intelligence Agency

Major Gen. Michael J. Lutton, Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commander, Air Force, Global Strike Command

Major Gen. Heath A. Collins, Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Director, Missile Defense Agency

Major Gen. Michael G. Koscheski, Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commander, Air Combat Command

Major Gen. Andrew J. Gebara, Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration, Headquarters US Air Force

Major Gen. David A. Harris Jr., Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Chief of Staff, Air Force, Futures, Headquarters U.S. Air Force

Major Gen. Linda S. Hurry, Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commander, Air Force, Materiel Command

Major Gen. David R. Iverson, Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commander, U.S. Forces Korea; Commander, Combined Air Component Command, United Nations Command; Commander, Combined Air Component Command, Combined Forces Command; and Commander, Seventh Air Force, Pacific Air Forces

Major Gen. Laura L. Lenderman, Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commander, Pacific Air Forces

Major Gen. Sean M. Farrell, Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commander, U.S. Special Operations Command

Major Gen. Adrian L. Spain, Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Headquarters U.S. Air Force

Brig. Gen. Dale R. White, Air Force, to be lieutenant general and Military Deputy, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force, for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics

Brig. Gen. Elizabeth E. Arledge, Air Force Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Robert M. Blake, Air Force Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Vanessa J. Dornhoefer, Air Force Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Christopher A. Freeman, Air Force Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. David P. Garfield, Air Force Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Mitchell A. Hanson, Air Force Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Jody A. Merritt, Air Force Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Adrian K. White, Air Force Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. William W. Whittenberger Jr., Air Force Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Christopher F. Yancy, Air Force Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Thomas W. Harrell, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Jeannine M. Ryder, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Curtis R. Bass, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Kenyon K. Bell, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Charles D. Bolton, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Larry R. Broadwell Jr., Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Michael J. Regan Jr., Air National Guard, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Sean M. Choquette, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Roy W. Collins, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. John R. Edwards, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Jason T. Hinds, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Justin R. Hoffman, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Stacy J. Huser, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Matteo G. Martemucci, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. David A. Mineau, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Ty W. Neuman, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Christopher J. Niemi, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Brandon D. Parker, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Michael T. Rawls, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Patrick S. Ryder, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. David G. Shoemaker, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Rebecca J. Sonkiss, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Claude K. Tudor Jr., Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Dale R. White, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Thomas P. Sherman, Air Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Steven J. Butow, Air National Guard, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Derin S. Durham, Air Force Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Miguel A. Mendez, Air National Guard, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, Air National Guard, to be major general

Col. Leigh A. Swanson, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Amy S. Bumgarner, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Ivory D. Carter, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Raja J. Chari, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Jason E. Corrothers, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. John B. Creel, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Nicholas B. Evans, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Bridget V. Gigliotti, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Christopher B. Hammond, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Leslie F. Hauck III, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Kurt C. Helphinstine, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Abraham L. Jackson, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Joy M. Kaczor, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Christopher J. Leonard, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Christopher E. Menuey, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. David S. Miller, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Jeffrey A. Philips, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Erik N. Quigley, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Michael S. Rowe, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Derek M. Salmi, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Kayle M. Stevens, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Jose E. Sumangil, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Terence G. Taylor, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Jason D. Voorheis, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Michael O. Walters, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Adrienne L. Williams, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Matthew S. Allen, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Lawrence T. Sullivan, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Trent C. Davis, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Corey A. Simmons, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. Sean M. Carpenter, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Mary K. Haddad, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. James L. Hartle, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Aaron J. Heick, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Joseph D. Janik, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Michael T. McGinley, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Kevin J. Merrill, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Tara E. Nolan, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Roderick C. Owens, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Mark D. Richey, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Norman B. Shaw Jr., Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Kristin A. Hillery, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Michelle L. Wagner, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Brian R. Moore, Air Force, to be brigadier general

Col. David M. Castaneda, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Harold W. Linnean III, Air Force Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Patti L. Fries, Air National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Tommy F. Tillman Jr., Air National Guard, to be brigadier general

Army

Lt. Gen. Andrew M. Rohling, Army, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Chairman, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Military Committee

Lt. Gen. Laura A. Potter, Army, to be lieutenant general and Director of Army Staff

Lt. Gen. John S. Kolasheski, Army, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commanding General, U.S. Army Europe-Africa

Lt. Gen. Douglas A. Sims II, Army, to be lieutenant general and Director, Joint Staff

Major Gen. William J. Hartman, Army, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commander, U.S. Cyber Command

Major Gen. Anthony R. Hale, Army, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Chief of Staff, G-2, U.S. Army

Major Gen. John B. Richardson IV, Army, to be lieutenant general and Commanding General, First United States Army

Major Gen. Sean A. Gainey, Army, to be lieutenant general and Commanding General, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command/U.S. Army Forces Strategic Command

Major Gen. Heidi J. Hoyle, Army, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Chief of Staff, G-4

Major Gen. Robert M. Collins, Army, to be lieutenant general and Military Deputy/Director, Army Acquisition Corps, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology

Major Gen. David Isaacson, Army, to be lieutenant general and Director for Command, Control, Communications, and Computers/Cyber; Chief Information Officer, J-6, Joint Staff

Major Gen. John W. Brennan Jr., Army, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commander, US Africa Command

Major Gen. Mark T. Simerly, Army, to be lieutenant general and Director, Defense Logistics Agency

Major Gen. David M. Hodne, Army, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commanding General, Futures and Concepts, U.S. Army Futures Command

Major Gen. Thomas L. James, Army, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commander, U.S. Space Command

Major Gen. Charles D. Constanza, Army, to be lieutenant general and Commanding General, V Corps

Major Gen. Karl H. Gingrich, Army, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Chief of Staff, G-8, U.S. Army

Major Gen. Michele H. Bredenkamp, Army, to be lieutenant general and Directors Advisor for Military Affairs, Office of the Director of National Intelligence)

Brig. Gen. Mary V. Krueger, Army, to be lieutenant general and The Surgeon General, U.S. Army

Brig. Gen. William Green Jr., Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Stacy M. Babcock, Army Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Laurence S. Linton, Army Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Ronald R. Ragin, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Mary V. Krueger, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Anthony L. McQueen, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Beth A. Salisbury, Army Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Jackie A. Huber, Army Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Warner A. Ross II, Army Reserve, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Richard T. Appelhans, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. James B. Bartholomees, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Jacqueline D. Brown, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Lance G. Curtis, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Michelle K. Donahue, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Thomas M. Feltey, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Andrew C. Gainey, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. David W. Gardner, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Gavin J. Gardner, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Clair A. Gill, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Garrick M. Harmon, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Richard A. Harrison, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Joseph E. Hilbert, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Daryl O. Hood, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Charles T. Lombardo, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Douglas S. Lowrey, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Steven M. Marks, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Mark C. Quander, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Hope C. Rampy, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. John T. Reim Jr., Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Lori L. Robinson, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Monte L. Rone, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. William A. Ryan III, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Eric P. Shirley, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. David F. Stewart, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Paul T. Sellars, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Curtis D. Taylor, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Brandon R. Tegtmeier, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Colin P. Tuley, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Jason E. Kelly, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. John W. Weidner, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. James P. Work, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Richard L. Zellmann, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. James A. Benson, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Karen A. Berry, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Bobby L. Christine, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Jeffrey L. Copeland, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Daniel A. Degelow, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Joseph A. Dinonno, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Terry L. Grisham, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. David L. Hall, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Charles D. Hausman, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Cindy H. Haygood, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Stephen F. Logan, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Corwin J. Lusk, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Jesse M. Morehouse, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Stephen E. Schemenauer, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Isabel R. Smith, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Craig W. Strong, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Patrick C. Thibodeau, Army, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Katherine E. White, Army, to be major general

Col. Paul W. Dahlen, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Hubert L. Davidson Jr., Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Shawn M. Fuellenbach, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Eric L. Gagnon, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Joy L. Grimes, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. John C. Kinton, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Scott J. Lewis, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Jason A. Salsgiver, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Darin D. Schuster, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Paul T. Sellars, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Geoffrey G. Vallee, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Jack J. Stumme, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. James F. Porter, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Peggy R. McManus, Army Reserve, to be major general

Col. Carlos M. Caceres, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. William F. Wilkerson, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Evelyn E. Laptook, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Brandon C. Anderson, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Beth A. Behn, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Matthew W. Braman, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Kenneth J. Burgess, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Thomas E. Burke, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Chad C. Chalfont, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Kendall J. Clarke, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Patrick M. Costello, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Rory A. Crooks, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Troy Denomy, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Sara E. Dudley, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Joseph E. Escandon, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Alric L. Francis, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. George C. Hackler, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. William C. Hannan Jr., Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Peter G. Hart, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Gregory L. Holden, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Paul D. Howard, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. James G. Kent, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Curtis W. King, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. John P. Lloyd, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Shannon M. Lucas, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Landis C. Maddox, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Kareem P. Montague, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. John B. Mountford, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. David C. Phillips, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Kenneth N. Reed, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Charlone E. Stallworth, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Jennifer S. Walkawicz, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Camilla A. White, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Scott D. Wilkinson, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Jeremy S. Wilson, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Scott C. Woodward, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Joseph W. Wortham II, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. David J. Zinn, Army, to be brigadier general

Col. Brandi B. Peasley, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. John D. Rhodes, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Earl C. Sparks IV, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Michael A. Ake, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Allen D. Aldenberg, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Toby J. Alkire, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Erich H. Babbitt, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Ronnie S. Barnes, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Andrew J. Bates, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Jason P. Benson, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Kevin M. Berry, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Brian S. Bischoff, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Todd M. Bookless, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. George H. Brauchler, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Daniel N. Brewer, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Kent D. Cavallini, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Erica M. Christie, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Richard P. Cipro, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Patrick G. Clare, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Andrew W. Collins, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Andrew T. Conant, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Herman E. Crosson, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Jon D. Farr, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Thaddeus D. Fineran, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Peter E. Fiorentino, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. John R. Fleet, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Jeremy R. Foot, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Steve A. Foster, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Paul M. Franken, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Jason W. Fryman, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. David L. Gibbons III, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Bobby M. Ginn Jr., Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Jerry B. Glass, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Alan R. Gronewold, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Barry W. Groton Jr., Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Wyatt E. Hansen, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Alexander V. Harlamor, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Kristine L. Henry, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. George W. Horsley, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Robert C. Horvath, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. David L. Johnson, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Marvin D. Johnson, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Robert C. Jorgensen Jr., Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Gunnar D. Kiersey, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Jeffrey G. LaPierre, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Leon M. LaPoint, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Eric J. Leckel, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Bradley A. Leonard, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Edward W. Lewis, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Reece J. Lutz, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Craig M. Maceri, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Jason P. Mahfouz, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Charles B. Martin Jr., Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Marc R. McCreery, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. John W. McElveen, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Russell E. McGuire, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Brian L. Medcalf, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Donald S. Mitchell, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Seth L. Morgulas, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Lawrence M. Muennich, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Heidi R. Munro, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Tracy R. Norman, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Zoe M. Ollinger, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Bryan K. Ouellette, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Andrew S. Rendon, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Linda J. Riedel, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Pia Romero, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Keir A. Scoubes, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. James D. Seward, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Christopher M. Thomas, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Steven R. Todd, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Steven C. Turner, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Theodore O. Unbehagen, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Matthew A. Valas, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Ravindra V. Wagh, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Edward J. Wallace, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Zara A. Walters, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Jeffrey D. Wood, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Marlene K. Markotan, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Matthew N. Gebhard, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Katherine M. Braun, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Renea V. Dorvall, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Robert S. Crockem Jr., Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Clifford R. Gunst, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Michael C. Henderson, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Col. Kristina J. Green, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Colin J. Morrow, Army Reserve, to be brigadier general

Col. Anthony B. Poole, Army National Guard, to be brigadier general

Navy

Vice Adm. Karl O. Thomas, Navy, to be vice admiral and Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare, N2/N6, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations/Director of Naval Intelligence

Vice Adm. Jeffrey W. Hughes, Navy, to be vice admiral and Deputy Chief of Staff for Capability Development, Supreme Allied Command Transformation

Vice Adm. Craig A. Clapperton, Navy, to be vice admiral and Commander, Fleet Cyber Command/Commander, Tenth Fleet/Commander, Navy Space Command

Vice Adm. Daniel W. Dwyer, Navy, to be vice admiral and Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Warfighting Development (N7), Office of the Chief of Naval Operations

Rear Adm. Yvette M. Davids, Navy, to be vice admiral and Superintendent, U.S. Naval Academy

Vice Adm. Charles B. Cooper II, Navy, to be vice admiral and Deputy Commander, U.S. Central Command

Rear Adm. Brendan R. McLane, Navy, to be vice admiral and Commander, Naval Surface Forces/Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet

Rear Adm. John E. Gumbleton, Navy, to be vice admiral and Deputy Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command

Rear Adm. Christopher S. Gray, Navy, to be vice admiral and Commander, Navy Installations Command

Rear Adm. James E. Pitts, Navy, to be vice admiral and Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Warfighting Requirements and Capabilities, N9, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations

Rear Adm. George M. Wikoff, Navy, to be vice admiral and Commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Central Command/Commander, Fifth Fleet and Commander, Combined Maritime Forces

Rear Adm. Frederick W. Kacher, Navy, to be vice admiral and Commander, Seventh Fleet

Rear Adm. James P. Downey, Navy, to be vice admiral and Commander, Naval Sea Systems Command

Rear Adm. Daniel L. Cheever, Navy, to be vice admiral and Commander, Naval Air Forces/Commander, Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet

Rear Adm. Robert M. Gaucher, Navy, to be vice admiral and Commander, Naval Submarine Forces/Commander, Submarine Force, United States Atlantic Fleet, and Commander, Allied Submarine Command

Rear Adm. Douglas G. Perry, Navy, to be vice admiral and Commander, Second Fleet and Commander, Joint Forces Command Norfolk

Rear Adm. Jeffrey T. Jablon, Navy, to be vice admiral and Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Installations and Logistics, N4, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations

Rear Adm. Blake L. Converse, Navy, to be vice admiral and Deputy Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet

Rear Adm. (lower half) Michael A. Brookes, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Heidi K. Berg, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Darin K. Via, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half) and Surgeon General of the Navy

Rear Adm. (lower half) Casey J. Moton, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Stephen R. Tedford, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Rick Freedman, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Kenneth W. Epps, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Darin K. Via, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Stephen D. Barnett, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Michael W. Baze, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Richard T. Brophy Jr., Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Joseph F. Cahill III, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Brian L. Davies, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Michael P. Donnelly, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Daniel P. Martin, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Richard E. Seif Jr., Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Paul C. Spedero Jr., Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Derek A. Trinque, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Dennis Velez, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Darryl L. Walker, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Jeromy B. Williams, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Kenneth R. Blackmon, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Marc S. Lederer, Navy, to be rear admiral

Rear Adm. (lower half) Robert C. Nowakowski, Navy, to be rear admiral

Capt. Walter D. Brafford, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Robert J. Hawkins, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Amy N. Bauernschmidt, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Michael B. Devore, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Thomas A. Donovan, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Frederic C. Goldhammer, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Ian L. Johnson, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Neil A. Koprowski, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Paul J. Lanzilotta, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Joshua Lasky, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Donald W. Marks, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Craig T. Mattingly, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Andrew T. Miller, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Lincoln M. Reifsteck, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Frank A. Rhodes IV, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Thomas E. Shultz, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Todd E. Whalen, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Forrest O. Young, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Julie M. Treanor, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Frank G. Schlereth III, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Joshua C. Himes, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Kurtis A. Mole, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Thomas J. Dickinson, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Kevin R. Smith, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Todd S. Weeks, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Dianna Wolfson, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Jeffrey A. Jurgemeyer, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Richard S. Lofgren, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Michael S. Mattis, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Richard W. Meyer, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Bryon T. Smith, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Michael R. Vanpoots, Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. John E. Byington, Navy Reserve, , Navy, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. John A. Robinson III, Navy Reserve to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. David E. Ludwa, Navy Reserve, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Peter K. Muschinske, Navy Reserve, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Capt. Marc F. Williams, Navy Reserve, to be rear admiral (lower half)

Marine Corps

Lt. Gen. Michael S. Cederholm, Marine Corps, to be lieutenant general and Commanding General, I Marine Expeditionary Force

Lt. Gen. James W. Bierman Jr., Marine Corps, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies, and Operations, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps

Major Gen. James H. Adams III, Marine Corps, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commandant for Programs and Resources, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps

Major Gen. Bradford J. Gering, Marine Corps, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commandant, Aviation, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps

Major Gen. Gregory L. Masiello, Marine Corps, to be lieutenant general and Director, Defense Contract Management Agency Col. David R. Everly, Marine Corps, to be brigadier general

Major Gen. Ryan P. Heritage, Marine Corps, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Commandant for Information, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps

Major Gen. Roger B. Turner Jr., Marine Corps, to be lieutenant general and Commanding General, III Marine Expeditionary Force and Commander, Marine Forces Japan

Major Gen. Leonard F. Anderson IV, Marine Corps Reserve, to be lieutenant general and Commander, Marine Forces Reserves/Commander, Marine Forces South

Col. Kelvin W. Gallman, Marine Corps, to be brigadier general

Col. Adolfo Garcia Jr., Marine Corps, to be brigadier general

Col. Matthew T. Good, Marine Corps, to be brigadier general

Col. Trevor Hall, Marine Corps, to be brigadier general

Col. Richard D. Joyce, Marine Corps, to be brigadier general

Col. Omar J. Randall, Marine Corps, to be brigadier general

Col. Robert S. Weiler, Marine Corps, to be brigadier general

Space Force

Lt. Gen. Philip A. Garrant, Space Force, to be lieutenant general and Commander, Space Systems Command, U.S. Space Force

Major Gen. David N. Miller Jr., Space Force, to be lieutenant general and Commander, Space Operations Command

Major Gen. Shawn N. Bratton, Space Force, to be lieutenant general and Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Strategy, Plans, Programs, and Requirements

Major Gen. Douglas A. Schiess, Space Force to be lieutenant general and Commander, U.S. Space Forces - Space/Combined Joint Force Space Component Commander

Brig. Gen. Donald J. Cothern, Space Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Troy L. Endicott, Space Force, to be major general

Brig. Gen. Timothy A. Sejba, Space Force, to be major general
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN)  Several new laws went into effect at the start of December. They cover a number of topics  some controversial. Below are some of those new laws you may have missed.

Updated gun laws

Lawmakers approved Senate Bill 41 before it was vetoed by Gov. Roy Cooper. The veto was later overridden. One part of the bill that did away pistol purchase permits went into effect earlier this year. A portion allowing guns in some churches went into effect this month.

The law now allows firearms in places of worship if those places operate on a school campus. Under the law, firearms cannot be present during school hours or school-sponsored events.

Harsher drug penalties

The states Death by Distribution Act was first passed in an effort to curb drug overdoses. That law allowed police to criminally charge someone in an overdose death if it was shown they sold the drugs that caused the death.

An updated version of Senate Bill 189 makes it easier for police to press charges in an overdose death. The law now allows police to charge a person for providing a substance that lead to an overdose even if investigators cannot prove a sale occured.

Street takeovers, privacy of minors among topics in new NC laws effective Dec. 1

Anti-riot bill

Among controversial new laws this year was House Bill 40 which the governor allowed to become law without his signatures. The anti-riot bill increases punishments for people participating in a riot or inciting one. Republicans pushed for these changes after the violence in Raleigh and other cities in the wake of the murder of George Floyd.

The bill lets property owners with damaged businesses sue for up to three times the actual damage sustained. People accused of rioting or looting have to wait 24 hours before getting a bond set. Punishments are now harsher for people who brandish a weapon or cause bodily harm while participating in a protest.

Sexual misconduct by teachers

Between Jan. 2016 and Oct. 2022, the states Department of Public Instruction reported 124 instances of sexual misconduct by educators involving students resulting in a license suspension, revocation or voluntary surrender. Lawmakers passed House Bill 142 in an effort to curb that.

The bill upgrades the charge of taking indecent liberties with a student from a Class I to a Class G felony. Failure by school administration to report the misconduct to the State Board of Education within five days is now considered a Class I felony. The bill will also require schools to show an age-appropriate video to children in grades 6 to 12 to educate them on sexual child abuse. The law requires the video be showed by the fifth day of the school year.

Power grid attacks

Following the attack on two Moore County electric substations, Senate Bill 58 now increases criminal penalties for people who intentionally damage critical infrastructure. The bill only applies to incidents after Dec. 1, 2023, so it cannot be used in the Moore County case. No arrests have been made in the Moore County incident that left 45,000 customers in the dark for days after shots were fired at substations.

The new law makes attacks on energy facilities Class C felonies. Its punishable by a minimum of about five years and a fine up to $250,000. People injured as a result of an attack or who sustain property damage can also sue under the law.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com.
Just four candidates will take the stage Wednesday night in Tuscaloosa, Ala., for the fourth Republican primary debate  the fewest so far.

The debate, hosted by The Hills sister news organization NewsNation, will feature Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. One participant from the most recent debate last month, Sen. Tim Scott (S.C.), has since dropped out of the race.

Former President Trump will skip the event again, instead attending a private fundraiser in Florida.

The debate will air at 8 p.m. EST and be moderated by Elizabeth Vargas, Megyn Kelly and Eliana Johnson. Interested viewers can click here for how to tune in to NewsNation in their cable market and how to stream the debate.

Here are five things to watch for at the Wednesday debate:

Does Haley cement herself as the strongest Trump alternative?

Haley, a former South Carolina governor, has seen the most momentum of any non-Trump candidate for months, building off consecutive strong debate performances.

She has moved into a clear second place in New Hampshire and South Carolina, two of the first states to vote, and is trying to close in on DeSantis for second in Iowa and nationwide. The two candidates have been jostling to secure their spot as the main alternative to Trump for months.

Haley has argued that she is the candidate best positioned to face President Biden in a general election, pointing to polls that have shown her with a larger lead over the incumbent than Trump or DeSantis.

She also received a boost with a significant endorsement last month from Americans for Prosperity Action, a group affiliated with GOP donor Charles Koch.

During past debates, Haley has scored several memorable moments, especially in defending U.S. support for Ukraine and Israel and attacking some of her rivals.

Trying to gain more steam and facing an increasingly smaller stage, Haley will make the argument that she is the strongest candidate to upset Trump for the nomination and stop Biden from being reelected. Political observers will be watching closely to see how much that resonates with primary voters.

Can DeSantis turn things around?

DeSantis has managed to stop some of the bleeding that his campaign took in the polls throughout the summer, but he has mostly remained stagnant nationwide and in key states for months.

The governor took part in an unusual event last week when he faced off against California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) in a debate, a performance that drew praise from Republicans. With just over a month before the Iowa caucuses, DeSantis needs to take every opportunity he can to fend off Haley and close the gap with Trump.

The debate on Wednesday could be the last prime opportunity with fewer candidates on stage and more speaking time for him. He had a stronger performance in the third debate last month than the first two, but getting a win Wednesday could give him the spark he really needs.

Throughout the primary, DeSantis has focused on Iowa, shifting staff to the Hawkeye State in recent months and receiving major endorsements from Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds (R) and evangelical leader Bob Vander Plaats.

DeSantis still holds second in most national polls, but time is running out for him to be in a position to realistically challenge Trump in January if he does not turn it around in the debate.

Do the candidates attack Trump?

The former presidents massive lead in the primary has cast a shadow over each of the debates so far, and that will be no different Wednesday.

But despite Trump being the clear front-runner in the race, the debates have mostly focused on the other candidates. The upper-tier candidates on stage have mostly battled each other as they look to clinch the second-place spot.

This means there have been relatively few attacks against Trump.

Christie, who was narrowly able to make the stage Wednesday, is the most notable exception, regularly denouncing Trump over his criminal cases and other issues. The former Trump ally called out the former president directly during the second debate for skipping the event.

Criticism over Trumps lack of attendance has been the most common attack, but he has been hit over a few policy issues, too.

In Miami last month, DeSantis slammed Trump for not having Mexico pay for a border wall on the southern border, while Haley criticized him for raising the national debt and his foreign policy positions.

It remains to be seen, however, if either DeSantis or Haley will step up attacks against the former president and risk alienating a significant part of the base.

How rowdy is the debate?

The debates have had several tense moments, with the candidates taking shots at each other. Wednesdays debate will likely be no different.

The most memorable fireworks have been between Haley and Ramaswamy, whose animosity toward each other has been palpable. Haley accused Ramaswamy of abandoning the countrys allies in the first debate for his opposition to additional aid to Ukraine, while Ramaswamy accused her of supporting Ukraine to please defense contractors.

Arguably the most volatile moment came last month when Ramaswamy brought up Haleys daughter using TikTok in response to Haleys criticism of him for using the platform in his campaign.

Leave my daughter out of your voice. Youre just scum, she fired back.

Haley and DeSantis have also gone back and forth at times, arguing over energy policies and fracking in the second debate. Each could be looking to go after each other again to gain a clear advantage to be the alternative.

Will it make a difference?

Trump is regularly exceeding 50 percent support in national polls and has built up leads of nearly 30 points in Iowa and New Hampshire. But polls also suggest there are opportunities for other candidates to close the gap with him in those states.

Time is running out, however, and the debates have yet to put a significant dent in Trumps lead. Haley has been the biggest beneficiary of a post-debate boost, but it has still only made her competitive for second place.

The candidates have also been dealing with an increasingly dwindling audience as the debates have gone on. The first debate brought in 12.8 million viewers, while the second had 9.5 million and the third dropped to 6.8 million.

If viewers do not watch in real time, the candidates could still gain the attention they need through memorable, viral moments that get media coverage and are shared online in the following days.

This could present an opportunity for DeSantis or Haley to become a more serious alternative to Trump even if the decline in viewership continues.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Illinois Commerce Commission recently decided rate cases for all three gas utilities in Illinois  Peoples Gas, Nicor Gas and Ameren Gas. Unlike too many previous cases where the commission took a cautious approach and gave the utilities what they asked for, this time the commission put a stop to business as usual.

In its decisions the commission took bold steps to transition the state from natural gas to renewable energy. Its only a start, but in the nearly three decades Ive been litigating cases before the ICC, Ive never seen the commission tell the utilities that they have to change the way they serve their customers.

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Over the years, Ive often wondered how many utility customers pay any attention to the commission. How many customers connect the governors appointment of commissioners who decide their utility rates? As important as utilities are to peoples lives, including their health and safety, few utility customers pay attention to the complicated and sometimes arcane regulatory process that ultimately determines how much gas or electric companies can raise their rates and how they spend that money.

But when the commission does something as positive as it did with these rate cases, its important to give credit where credit is due.

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[ Editorial: A once-servile regulator delivers a welcome message to local utilities to stop the spending binge ]

Obviously, the commissioners themselves get credit for those outcomes. But we should also take a moment to give credit to Gov. J.B. Pritzker and his staff for their diligent work appointing the current bench of five commissioners. This is especially true because ICC regulators face a difficult situation with the gas companies these days.

The Illinois legislature passed the Climate Equity and Jobs Act in September 2021, requiring the state to meet carbon reduction goals and transition the state to 100% clean energy by 2050. To meet those targets, we cannot continue burning natural gas the way we do today in Illinois.

Heres the conundrum. We have gas utilities that operate businesses doing just that  burning natural gas.

If Illinois is going to meet CEJAs climate change goals, the state has to make significant alterations to the gas system. In the usual course of business in the past, when the gas companies filed new rate cases, as they did this year, the commission would put off the tough decisions. The commission would essentially say something along the lines of, We know we need to change how the gas companies keep making investments in their system. Fortunately, we have a lot of time to do that, and for now we are only going to force them to tweak around the margins in exchange for allowing rate increases. Lets leave the hard decisions to future commissions.

Not this commission. At the ICCs November meeting when its latest round of decisions was revealed, commission Chairman Doug Scott spoke for the group when he said the commissioners recognize they have a responsibility to jump-start the process of moving away from natural gas right now. To that end, the commission significantly cut back the three utilities rate hike requests that included payment for future system upgrades, because that would only add more costs to the long-term problem.

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The commission announced it would begin a future of gas process for the state, which would analyze both gas and renewable energy costs in a comprehensive process. In addition, the commission is requiring the gas companies to file infrastructure plans to ensure the utilities each move forward in ways that reduce the size and scope of their gas systems. The commission made it clear that it will base future rate case decisions on these plans and not just rubber-stamp utility requests for rate hikes.

In terms of saving customers money today, the ICCs decision effectively lowered the utilities fixed customer charges, which are the fees customers pay every month regardless of how much gas they use. This action lowers bills for low-use customers and encourages energy efficiency.

Why is this type of decision a big deal? Its significant because the utilities in Illinois always had the political clout to get most of what they asked for in these rate cases. They have found ways to make sure utility-friendly commissioners get appointed or at least get enough of them on board to secure the votes they need to make sure they are protected.

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Not this time.

Scott and Commissioners Michael T. Carrigan, Ann McCabe, Stacey Paradis and Conrad R. Reddick all voted to start doing the hard work of change today. Its important to give these commissioners, and the governor, credit. But its equally important to make sure we dont waste a great start and that we continue to make the tough decisions that put consumers before utilities.

Rob Kelter is a managing attorney at the Environmental Law & Policy Center in Chicago.

Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
50 Cent is the mastermind behind Power, one of the most popular television universes on television. The shows, which include Power, Power Book II: Ghost, Power Book III: Raising Kanan and Power Book IV: Force, have made unknown actors into superstars.

The Get Rich or Die Tryin rapper executive produces each show, so naturally, hes made a good amount of money from the endeavor. But I doubt even a man as rich as 50 could pay the amount hes being sued for by the real-life Ghost.

Read more

More from AllHipHop on what Holland wrote in his legal complaint:



This is not one of those lawsuits from a deranged fan or some somebody trying capitalize-off someone elses success, Holland wrote in his complaint. This is about the actual theft of my life, and the damages that it has done as well the profits that the defendants have made from the of stealing and telling my life story without my consent.

Holland is suing for mental anguish, emotional distress, theft of identity and defamation. He alleges that the show has destroyed his life and reputation, according to AllHipHop.

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Nevadas attorney general on Wednesday announced charges against six so-called fake electors who falsely claimed former President Trump won the state in the 2020 presidential election.

When the efforts to undermine faith in our democracy began after the 2020 election, I made it clear that I would do everything in my power to defend the institutions of our nation and our state, Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford said in a statement. We cannot allow attacks on democracy to go unchallenged.

The six Nevadans face felony charges of offering a false instrument for filing and uttering a forged document for disseminating a document titled Certificate of the Votes of the 2020 Electors from Nevada to several government entities.

Wisconsin pro-Trump fake electors settle lawsuit over false 2020 filings

The pro-Trump electors facing charges are Michael McDonald, Jesse Law, Jim DeGraffenreid, Durward James Hindle III, Shawn Meehan and Eileen Rice. The Nevada attorney generals office said in a statement that they posed as duly qualified electors in an effort to disrupt the results of a free and fair presidential election.

The alternate electors scheme, spearheaded by Trump lawyers, relied on former Vice President Mike Pence to certify slates of Trump-supporting electors in battleground states instead of the true Electoral College votes cast for Biden. He ultimately declined to do so on Jan. 6, 2021  the day of the election certification  after which a pro-Trump mob stormed the Capitol in protest.

In addition to Nevada, fake electors allegedly convened in Georgia, Arizona, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New Mexico and Wisconsin, claiming without basis that they were duly elected electors from their states.

Michigans attorney general in July charged 16 people for falsely stating they were the states duly elected and qualified electors. The investigations into fake electors there, in New Mexico and in Arizona are ongoing.

In Georgia, three fake electors were charged alongside Trump and more than a dozen others in a sprawling racketeering case alleging they joined a criminal enterprise bent on keeping Trump in the White House.

Kenneth Chesebro  the Trump lawyer who was a defendant in the Georgia case before pleading guilty to lesser charges as part of an agreement with Fulton County prosecutors  is cooperating with the probes in Nevada and Arizona.

Planning in Nevada to use an alternate slate of electors began as early as four days before the 2020 election, when DeGraffenreid  one of the charged fake electors  told other state party officials in a text that former Nevada Secretary of State Barbara Cegavske (R) might do a lot of things, but sending a slate of Republican electors without them being clearly the winners of the popular vote is not one of them.

Details from the months after Trump lost the 2020 election indicate that the former president and his closest allies could be implicated in the states investigation.

DeGraffenreid, a GOP committee member, emailed then-Trump lawyer Chesebro on Dec. 11, 2020, with the subject URGENT-Trump-Pence campaign asked me to contact you to coordinate Dec. 14 voting by Nevada electors, according to the Jan. 6 committees final report.

McDonald, another of the fake electors charged, joined a conference call on Nov. 4, 2020, with Trump, his son Eric Trump, former chief of staff Mark Meadows and longtime Trump ally Rudy Giuliani, according to deposition transcripts released by the now-defunct House Jan. 6 committee.

They went full attack mode, McDonald later wrote of the call in a text message.

Updated 4:03 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
This article discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline available 24/7. To reach the 24/7 Crisis Text Helpline, text 4HOPE to 741741.

GRANDVIEW HEIGHTS, Ohio (WCMH)  As police enter their third hour investigating Wednesday morning, they are looking into the connection between a woman found stabbed multiple times and a man found dead on a Columbus highway near Grandview Heights.

Grandview Heights called for assistance around 7:13 a.m. on reports of a person dead near Interstate 670, according to Columbus police. In a 10:15 a.m. statement, Grandview Heights police said that a man had jumped off of the Grandview Avenue bridge and was pronounced dead at the scene. Responding crews shut down access to I-670 at the U.S. 33 exit ramp.

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Shortly after Columbus police responded to the report of a body, a woman with multiple stab wounds walked into the Grandview Heights municipal building. She was next taken to the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center in stable condition.

Grandview Heights police investigate a stabbing that is connected to a body found on I-670 East. (NBC4/El Richards)

Traffic is rerouted onto I-70 East after a person was found dead near I-670 and U.S. 33. (Courtesy/Ohio Department of Transportation)

Police presence at Grandview Ave. over I-670, Dec. 6, 2023. (NBC4/El Richards)

Traffic is backed up on I-670 eastbound after a person was found dead near the U.S. 33 interchange. (Courtesy/Ohio Department of Transportation)

Grandview Heights Police Chief Ryan Starns confirmed that the body found on the highway and the woman found with stab wounds are connected. Investigators established a crime scene at a home in the 1000 block of Grandview Avenue, which he also confirmed was linked to the crime scene on I-670.

Traffic on the highway, which was backed up as far as the I-70 and 270 interchange, was diverted to I-70 East. I-670 eastbound reopened just after 10:30 a.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
(National Archives)

December 7, 1941 is infamous for the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. However, across the Pacific and also on the other side of the international date line, the Japanese conducted near-simultaneous attacks on other Allied bases and territories in a bid to achieve dominance in the theater. While many military leaders anticipated the war with Japan, the ferocity of these attacks caught the Allies off guard and put the Japanese in a position of advantage at the start of the war.

1. The Philippines

Japanese bombers over Corregidor at the entrance to Manila Bay (Public Domain)

An American territory since the Spanish-American War, the Philippines served as a major U.S. military base of operations in Asia. It was defended by a large Army garrison, including bombers and fighters of the Army Air Forces, as well as Filipino Commonwealth forces under the command of General Douglas MacArthur. Despite receiving warning of the attack on Pearl Harbor, disputes and discussions amongst American commanders allowed the Japanese to strike the Philippines with tactical surprise.

On December 8, at 1240 hours, Japanese bombers caught two squadrons of B-17 Flying Fortresses and most of the 20th Pursuit Squadrons P-40 Warhawks on the ground at Clark Field. Only four of the P-40s managed to take off as the first bombs fell. To the northwest, the auxiliary Iba Field was similarly hit. With the U.S. Far East Air Force crippled, Japanese forces landed in the northern Philippines with little resistance. The effectiveness of the attacks on December 8, 1941, laid the groundwork for one of the U.S. militarys worst defeats. In the five months leading up to the surrender of the islands, roughly 23,000 American troops and 100,000 Filipino troops would be killed or captured.

2. Guam

A painting depicting the invasion of Guam (Kohei Ezaki/Public Domain)

Located in the southern Mariana Islands, Guam was another U.S. territory acquired as result of the Spanish-American War. Germany purchased the rest of the islands, but lost them to Japan during WWI. Despite this, very little was done to bolster Guams defenses during the interwar period. Viewed as an island of low value, the American garrison consisted of just 547 Marines and sailors. On December 8, 1941, at 0444 hours, Guam received news of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Less than four hours later, Japanese aircraft from Saipan began airstrikes on the island. These continued the next day, preparing the landing zones for the ground invasion. Early on the morning of December 10, 400 Japanese troops landed on Guam. By 0600, Guam was surrendered to the invaders. U.S. forces lost 17 men killed and 35 wounded. In contrast, the Japanese lost just one man killed and six wounded.

3. Wake Island

Wildcat wrecks on Wake (U.S. Navy)

In January 1941, the U.S. Navy began construction of a base on Wake Island. The first permanent garrison was deployed to the remote Pacific atoll on August 19 of that year. By December, Wake was defended by 399 Marine infantrymen, 12 Marine F4F-3 Wildcat fighters, six coastal artillery guns, and 12 anti-aircraft guns. On the morning of December 8, 1941, it was business as usual at Wake. A Pan Am seaplane even made a regular stop on its way to Guam. It was this civilian aircraft that radioed news of Pearl Harbor to Wake. The airliner returned, only to get caught in the attack.

Thirty-six Japanese bombers flew in from the Marshall Islands and destroyed eight of the 12 Marine fighters of the ground. The remaining four were only spared because they were patrolling in the air, though poor visibility prevented them from spotting the incoming bombers. Airstrikes continued, setting conditions for the Japanese landing on December 11. Although the American defenders repelled this first landing, subsequent airstrikes from land and carrier-based planes further degraded the islands defense. On December 23, 1941, at 0235, a second Japanese assault force landed on Wake. American personnel fought alongside the Chamorro natives, but the Japanese succeeded in capturing the island.

4. Midway

IJN Ushio (pictured) and Sazanami bombarded Midway (Public Domain)

Midway hosted a small U.S. military base capable of supporting air, sea, and land forces. Although the historic Battle of Midway would come later in the war, it was nonetheless attacked in conjunction with other American bases in the Pacific. On December 7, 1941, at 0931, Midway was shelled. Two Japanese destroyers, part of the fleet that launched the raid on Pearl Harbor, hammered the island for 54 minutes. They hit the command, communications, and power plant buildings. Marine 1st Lt. George Cannon was hit by shrapnel while in the command building. With communications severed, he refused medical treatment until they were restored and the wounded Marines around him were evacuated. He died of his wounds and became the first Marine of WWII to receive the Medal of Honor. In addition to Cannon, three more Americans were killed, and 10 were wounded during the first bombardment of Midway. One PBY Catalina flying boat was also destroyed. Marine artillery batteries reported inflicting damage on one of the Japanese destroyers.

6. Hong Kong

Mitsubishi G3M "Nell" bombers carried out the first raid on Hong Kong (Public Domain)

On December 8, 1941, at 0600 hours, Japanese forces crossed the Sham Chun River to begin the Battle of Hong Kong. Two hours later, Japanese bombers hit Kai Tak airport, virtually destroying British air power; RAF personnel fought the defense of the colony as ground troops. The 2/14th Punjab fought the first major engagement with the Japanese Army at 1500 hours and eliminated several platoons. The Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps also inflicted casualties on the attackers. However, these early ground victories on the first day of the battle did not last and the defenders were pushed back in the following days. Kowloon and the New Territories were abandoned within a week and Hong Kong was surrendered on December 25, 1941.

7. Malaya

No. 453 RAAF Squadron scramble to their planes (Public Domain)

December 8, 1941, was also the beginning of the Malayan Campaign. Before Singapore was attacked, and even before the first bombs fell on Pearl Harbor, Japanese forces landed on Malaya. No. 1 RAAF Squadron sent fighters up to contest the landings, becoming the first Allied fighters to carry out an attack in the Pacific during WWII. By 0118 hours, an hour before Pearl Harbor was attacked across the international date line, the Australian fighters sunk a Japanese transport ship and damaged two more. Still, Japanese air forces were extremely effective and 60 Allied aircraft were lost on the first day, mostly on the ground. The Commonwealth defenders slowed the Japanese invasion but ultimately retreated to Singapore on January 31, 1942. On February 15 of that year, the Japanese captured Singapore, ending the Malayan Campaign.
A man who pleaded guilty to the brutal 2019 killing of a 75-year-old woman could now spend the rest of his life in prison, Texas officials say.

Marco Cobos, now 24, was accused of fatally stabbing Etta Nugent at her Houston home May 19, 2019. He pleaded guilty to murder and aggravated robbery on Friday, Dec. 1, and received two life sentences, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg announced Tuesday.

Ogg said Cobos stole a truck in Arizona and drove to Texas to meet someone he had met online. He began sleeping out of the truck when that meeting did not happen.

He knocked on the door of Nugent, a grandmother who was living on her own while her husband was in a medical facility, the district attorneys office said. Cobos asked if he could have water and charge his phone, officials said, but the homeowner refused.

The grandmother closed the door on Cobos, but he returned minutes later and began a vicious attack, officials said.

(He) began stabbing the elderly woman with a knife he brought and then continued the assault with one of her kitchen knives, stabbing her at least 13 times over several hours until she finally died of her wounds, Ogg said.

As Nugents body was in the living room, Cobos did his laundry at the home, the district attorney said. He is then accused of leaving to buy a hamburger before returning to steal some of her possessions, including the womans vehicle.

Nugents son later found her body in the home, officials said. Cobos was detained when officers reported seeing him driving the womans car.

He admitted that Nugent pleaded for her life and even told him she was a mother and grandmother with an ailing husband, according to the district attorney.

Shortly before Cobos trial was set to begin, he pleaded guilty to the charges. As part of his plea, he will be eligible for parole in 60 years, Ogg said.

Ogg praised the sentencing as the correct decision in light of the senseless and premeditated killing.

This case is truly horrendous and is the worst possible nightmare for anyone who has an elderly parent living on their own, said Assistant District Attorney Lynn Nguyen. You dont want to believe that something like this could happen in our community, but when it does, we do everything possible to seek justice for the victim and their family.

Nugent was a beloved wife, mother grandmother, sister and friend who lived in Texas her entire life, according to an obituary. She had been married since 1966 and had three children with her husband.

Before her retirement, she worked more than 20 years as the secretary of Holy Ghost Catholic Church.

Why her? neighbor and friend Sharon Shanahan asked in 2019, KHOU reported. Because she was such a gentle soul. I dont understand.

Murder suspect on run 39 years pleads guilty to strangling Florida mom, prosecutors say

76-year-old woman was shot and killed, Texas police say. Now her daughter is arrested

Man accused of killing Texas sisters caught after bus ride to California, cops say
Many of Germanys markets start in November and last through until after New Year (Getty Images)

Europes Christmas markets are a fantastic way to get in the festive spirit, and nowhere does it better than Germany.

The country where they first originated continues to devote an incredible amount of time and effort to making its markets as spectacular as possible.

It seems like every city and town up and down the European nation has its own version, from the myriad locations offered in Berlin to the rustic charm of Bavarias many markets.

Mulled wine, bratwurst and a range of regional delicacies from destinations including Erfut will keep you warm and full, while the arts, crafts and gifts on sale in cities like Dresden provide opportunities to buy presents for all the family. To top it all off, the markets often have striking backdrops, from the viaduct at Ravenna Gorge to Colognes famed cathedral.

If the thought of gluhwein and gingerbread is enough to tempt you into a festive trip to Germany, read on  weve collated a list of the countrys best Christmas markets.

Berlin

The first of Berlins Christmas markets reportedly dates back to 1530 (Getty Images)

The capital may not have the best markets in the country, but it certainly has the most. There are around 80 market locations in Berlin, ranging from smaller, more intimate collections of stalls to the largest market in town, a vast  yet still cosy  collection of stalls that combines great food with plenty of gift options in the western suburb of Spandau.

Potsdamer Platz hosts a winter village of various activities as well as market stalls, while the centrally located Gendarmenmarkt puts on a traditionally styled market and Alexanderplatz is home to a funfair-type market with a few touches of the medieval. Several locations boast over 100 stalls, and with individual markets in many of the citys neighbourhoods, just follow the smell of mulled wine and gingerbread to discover one.

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Nuremberg

Nuremberg is the second largest city in Bavaria (Getty Images)

Nuremberg goes big on Christmas markets, with a focus on variety and markets that cater to different groups (something that is not always seen across Europe). The Sister Cities market is a unique example, where over 20 stalls sell produce from Nurembergs sister cities, including Nice, Antalya and Krakow. Another is the Childrens Market (known as the Kinderweihnacht), where kids can try out ferris wheels and fairground rides, as well as activities such as cake making.

The Christkindelsmarkt, which takes place in the central Neumarkt, is one of the countrys most famed Christmas markets. A large area known locally as the city of wood and cloth, it contains dozens of rows of stalls selling traditional food, souvenirs and gifts, all with the magnificent backdrop of the citys 14th-century cathedral.

Rothenburg

Rothenburg is officially known as Rothenburg ob der Tauber (Getty Images)

Rothenburg may not lie on the well-trodden path of visitors to Germany, but this northern Bavarian town is the ideal setting for an atmospheric Christmas market. Mazy cobbled streets, hundreds of festoon lights and a smattering of snow on the roofs of the timber-framed buildings provide the quintessential festive backdrop, while the Reiterlesmarkt supplies the ideal venue and the usual festive specialties.

The market is spread across the Market Square, town hall and the Green Market, featuring around 50 stalls. While exploring youll likely hear carol singing and other musical performances, giving this market even more of a festive atmosphere. Dont leave without trying local comfort foods like schneeball, a fried pastry topped with powdered sugar or chocolate.

Dresden

The Striezelmarkt was founded in 1434 (Getty Images)

Dresden is another city with several markets dotted throughout, with the Frauenkirche hosting an arts and crafts market and the Mittelalter-Weihnacht carrying a medieval theme while also offering somewhat unique features, like the opportunity to buy gifts made using tools and materials from the Middle Ages.

The citys main market, the Striezelmarkt, is one of the oldest in Germany, considered by some to be the original Christmas market. It is set near the banks of the Elbe River, in the citys charming Baroque old town, and with over 200 stalls, its own ferris wheel and a giant, 14-metre high Christmas pyramid, this is one of the grandest markets in Germany.

Cologne

The construction of Colognes Cathedral began in the 13th century (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Cologne is home to several Christmas markets, from an excellent food market and the romantic Village of Angels around Neumarkt to Henzels Winter Fairytale, a winter village in the old town that features an ice rink and dozens of chalet-style stalls. The Harbour Christmas Market has one of the most picturesque settings, complete with a ferris wheel that offers views from 48 metres above.

Despite great variety across the city, the largest and most famed market is the Kolner Dom, which sits in Roncalliplatz, surrounded on one side by the dramatic Unesco-listed Cathedral. The square is filled with red-roofed market stalls that sell all the usual trinkets and German delicacies, placed around a giant Christmas tree and a stage that hosts around 100 free events between 5 and 23 December.

Erfut

Erfut is the capital of the Thuringia region (Getty Images)

Erfut is a city that really gets into the Christmas spirit come December, with a market spread that turns several squares into a veritable winter wonderland. It takes places in the citys historic quarter, surrounded by the multi-coloured facades of its Gothic buildings and sprawled across the squares of Domplatz, Fischmarkt and Willy-Brandt-Platz. Domplatz is the heart of the market, adorned with a vast, 20-metre tall Christmas tree and an equally imposing ferris wheel. Alongside the 200 or so stalls (selling everything from pottery and fabrics to Thuringian bratwurst), there are plenty of attractions for both children and adults, including fairground rides, festive floral displays and life-sized Nativity scenes.

Ravenna Gorge

The market in Ravenna Gorge is known simply as Christmas Market (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

What is likely the most picturesque market in the country  and perhaps on the continent  takes place in Germanys famed Black Forest, in a southerly section close to the border with Switzerland. Its setting is unmatched, situated at the base of a 40-metre high viaduct and intersected by its stone arches, with a sea of sparkling lights and a sprinkling of snow creating a picture-perfect backdrop.

Visit in the evening to see the bridge lit up along with the stalls, and save some room for a selection of German specialties including pork shoulder or flammkuchen, an Alsatian take on pizza. Potential gifts are sold in abundance too, from handmade glass and artisan produce to Black Forest cuckoo clocks. To reach the Gorge, take a train to Hinterzarten or Himmelreich and then board a free shuttle bus.

Goslar

Goslars Old Town is a Unesco World Heritage Site (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

For something that is more intimate while offering a true taste of the quintissential German market, head to Goslar in central Germany. Christmas there is a more humble affair than in other German towns and cities, with just two markets taking place between 6 and 30 December. The main one takes place on Market Square, where around 80 wooden huts provide arts, crafts and Christmas delicacies like gluhwein or roasted almonds in the beautiful surroundings afforded by Goslars timber-framed medieval architecture. An enchanting Christmas forest is also set up, taking place nearby in Schuhof, where 60 large conifers are decorated with lights to provide a magical festive setting,

Read our reviews of the best Germany hotels
Mayor Brandon Johnson listens as aldermen speak about the budget during a City Council meeting before the vote on Nov. 15, 2023, at Chicago City Hall. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)

Help wanted.

Mayor Brandon Johnson seeks a seasoned business person to market Chicago to companies looking to move or expand. Must be willing and able to explain away the past disinterest of the big boss, as well as anti-business policies like a 3.5% tax on commercial property sales and onerous minimum wage requirements for workers earning tips, as well as frequent occurrences of brazen thefts like smashing stolen cars into retail storefronts.

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Its not a surprise that Michael Fassnacht, CEO of World Business Chicago, is leaving that post after four years. The job, which entails recruiting businesses to locate and hire in Chicago and preserving the private-sector jobs already here, is a critical one. New mayors often want their own person in that post.

This change marks more than the usual turnover at the agency, though. Also departing from their roles are Mellody Hobson, co-CEO of money manager Ariel Investments who serves as vice chair of World Business Chicago, and tech entrepreneur Mark Tebbe, whos worked nearly a decade at the agency promoting Chicago to startups and their financiers.

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In reports on the news, Hobson and Fassnacht were diplomatic. Tebbe, however, said the quiet part out loud. I dont see the focus on the business community that I have seen with other mayors, he told Crains Chicago Business, adding that he hoped Johnson was successful.

What Tebbe said is what the vast majority of business people in Chicago are saying privately  with increasing alarm. This is a mayor who in his past career had little reason or occasion to rub elbows with business. While hes said the right things at times in terms of wanting a relationship with business that works for both the city and the private sector, his actions have spoken far more loudly.

Still, the opportunity to select new leaders at World Business Chicago is another chance for him to reset and demonstrate he understands how critical economic growth is to the citys health, as well as his agenda. A stalled local economy means less in tax and fee revenue to pay for the progressive initiatives on which the mayor campaigned.

The question now is: Who on Chicagos business scene will want the job under these conditions?

For the citys sake, we hope there are serious candidates willing to accept the risk to their reputation, not to mention their stress level, to serve as Chicagos chief marketer to the outside world. It was a tough job even before Johnsons election. Fassnacht had to cope with the departures of Citadel, Caterpillar and Boeing and, of course, feverish competition from growing cities elsewhere, such as Miami, Nashville and several cities in Texas.

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True, there were hundreds of lower-profile economic-development victories. But the narrative set by those big exits dominates the current discussion of Chicagos business climate.

Cities like ours must compete in a national  and sometimes global  marketplace for employers. Despite its leadership struggles, Chicago retains numerous assets, including its logistically enviable central location, its world-class universities, OHare International Airport (but watch out there) and an appealing combination of natural beauty, livability and a famously influential arts scene.

Past challenges to the citys business reputation tended to center on the acquisition of major locally based corporations by more aggressive and capable out-of-town companies. Now, were seeing companies decide to just pull up stakes and go despite the headaches associated with such moves.

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That has to stop and start moving in the opposite direction.

This hiring decision will be among Mayor Johnsons most important.

Join the discussion on Twitter @chitribopinions and on Facebook.

Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
A grand jury indicted Joseph David Emerson, 44, on 83 counts of reckless endangering another person on Tuesday, dropping the 83 charges of attempted murder, after police say the off-duty pilot tried to turn off an aircrafts engines while it was in the air on Oct. 22.

On Wednesday, a federal judge approved his release after being charged with Interfering with Flight Crew Members and Attendants.

He is still facing 83 state charges tied to the case. Hes still in jail and is expected to be arraigned on those state charges Wednesday.

His lawyers said he could be out of jail by the end of the week.

On Oct. 22, police say Emerson was flying as an off-duty pilot aboard Horizon Air Flight 2059, from Paine Field in Everett. The plane landed at Portland International Airport on an emergency diversion.

Charging documents detail how Emerson told police he was having a nervous breakdown, and had not slept in 40 hours. Although he denied taking any medication, he had mentioned that it was his first time taking mushrooms. Documents further lay out that he said he had taken mushrooms roughly 48 hours before his flight. Generally, the effects are known to wear off after between three and six hours.

I pulled both emergency shut off handles because I thought I was dreaming and I just wanna wake up, he told police.

After being taken into custody, he waived his right to an attorney and stated that he was not fighting any charges brought against him.

Im admitting to what I did, he said.

The Horizon Air passenger jet was initially headed for San Francisco before it was met by police after diverting to Portland on Sunday.

In audio captured by LiveATC.com, one of the planes pilots told air traffic controllers that Emerson had been taken out of the cockpit.

No weapons were involved in the incident.

We talked to Paul Stephen from Seattle who said he was sitting in the third row of the flight and saw Emerson walking back and forth on the plane by himself. But he told us no one on the plane knew exactly what was happening until after the flight.

To be clear, none of us knew it was an off-duty pilot, we were notified there was a quote un-quote medical emergency, and there had to be an emergency landing. We werent told where or when. Or how long it was going to take. We were notified by a nervous flight attendant. And the plane immediately started losing altitude going down to our destination, said Stephen.

A statement released Monday from Alaska Airlines, which owns Horizon, said:

On Oct. 22, Alaska Airlines Flight 2059 operated by Horizon Air from Everett, WA (PAE) to San Francisco, CA (SFO) reported a credible security threat related to an off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot who was traveling in the flight deck jump seat. The jump seat occupant unsuccessfully attempted to disrupt the operation of the engines. The Horizon Captain and First Officer quickly responded, engine power was not lost and the crew secured the aircraft without incident.

Following appropriate FAA procedures and guidance from Air Traffic Control, the flight was safely diverted to Portland International Airport. The jump seat occupant is currently in custody and the event is being investigated by law enforcement authorities, which includes the FBI and the Port of Portland Police Department.

All passengers on board were able to travel on a later flight. We are grateful for the professional handling of the situation by the Horizon flight crew and appreciate our guests calm and patience throughout this event.

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg issued a statement of his own late Monday morning, stating that he is grateful for the professional flight crew and air traffic controllers who stepped up to guide this plane safely to Portland.

FAA supports law enforcement in their response and will be focused on any safety considerations for the future that emerge from investigations, he added.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.
An overwhelming majority of New York City voters are concerned about accommodating migrants, according to a new poll.

The latest Quinnipiac University poll found that 85 percent of New York City voters are either very concerned or somewhat concerned that the city will not be able to accommodate the surge in migrants who have sought sanctuary in the city. City officials have been sounding the alarm on the migrant crisis for months, warning that they do not have the resources to meet the demand.

In addition, 62 percent of voters said they agreed with New York City Mayor Eric Adamss statement from September, where he said that an influx of migrants will destroy the city. Another 33 percent said they disagreed.

Adams has been arguing for months that the federal government is not doing enough to support New York City as it deals with a growing number of migrants. The poll found that New York City voters agree, with 80 percent saying the federal government should do more.

Eight percent said the federal government is doing the right amount and six percent said it is doing too much, according to the poll.

In a city where the words Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free are embedded in its history, voters express theres a limit, Quinnipiac University Poll Assistant Director Mary Snow said in a statement.

An overwhelming number of them worry the city doesnt have the capacity to welcome the surge of migrants that have been arriving in New York since the spring of 2022. And they near unanimously agree that the federal government isnt doing enough to help New York City, she added.

The city has seen a sharp increase in migrants over the last year, especially as Republican governors moved to send migrants to Democratic-led cities throughout the U.S.

New York City has received about $140 million in federal funding for shelters, which is more than any other city not on the southwest border. The White House told New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) in August that it cannot send more federal assistance to the state, blaming congressional hurdles for the inability.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
FEMA is working out of several public spaces including the Calumet City Public Library, 660 S Manistee Ave., as the agency works to reimburse people with expenses due to the September flooding. (Hank Sanders/Daily Southtown)

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has already given out $9.6 million in recovery assistance in the two weeks since President Joe Biden approved a disaster declaration to help Illinois residents affected by flooding from heavy rains in mid-September.

Bidens announcement allowed for FEMAs return to the state one month after the agency left to wrap up its response to the flooding from late June and early July that wreaked havoc on homes and businesses across Cook County.

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This second visit is in response to heavy rains Sept. 17 and 18 which were focused primarily in the south suburbs and caused less wide spread damage but lead to significant damage in a smaller area.

Things are going good, people are coming in, said Larissa Hale, a media relations specialist for FEMA.

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In order to receive funding to help with flood damage, homeowners and business owners must fill out an application through the FEMA website or at one of the several temporary disaster recovery centers.

Hale explained that since FEMA arrived, 7,000 applicants have sought assistance, although not all have been approved. The average allocation to the approved applicants so far is $4,800 per household, Hale said.

According to the National Weather Service, the towns that were most severely hit by the rains Sept. 17 and 18 were Calumet City, with a peak rain level of 8.7 inches, as well as Burnham, Dolton, Hammond and the Hegewisch community area of Chicago which saw as much as 7.3 inches.

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Of applications received so far, 1,613 were from Chicago residents, 1,604 from Calumet City residents, 865 from Dolton and 135 from Burnham. The deadline to apply is Jan. 19, and Hale wants many more residents to apply.

Were trying to get the word out. We have disaster survivor assistance crews out in these neighborhoods, going ... door to door, Hale said. Its still early so these numbers will pick up.

Since it has been almost two months since the September storm, many households have already paid to fix their flooded basements and living rooms but can be reimbursed for work already done, Hale said, urging residents to save receipts as they will be needed during the application of process.

The Small Business Association is also working to assist the recovery. If FEMA does not cover the entirety of a homeowners or business owners expenses, the business association offers loans at 2.5% and 4% interest, respectively.

To apply for FEMA assistance, go to www.fema.gov/disaster/4749, and to learn more about the SBA loans, visit SBA.gov/disaster.

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Residents may also visit disaster recovery centers open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily at the Calumet City Public Library, 660 S Manistee Ave., and at the community center, 14020 S Torrence Ave.

hsanders@chicagotribune.com
Much has been written about lessons learned from the Covid-19 pandemic. Although debate remains about the global response, on one issue there is clear consensus: the need for vaccine manufacturing capacity in every global region as an insurance policy against the type of vaccine nationalism that saw Africa deprived of Covid-19 vaccines in the early days of the pandemic.

This is an issue with repercussions beyond Africa, with clear implications for global health security. To quote WHO Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, no one is safe, until we are all safe, and we must therefore put vaccine equity at the heart of pandemic preparedness, prevention and response.

The African Union has set a target for the African vaccine manufacturing industry to develop, produce, and supply over 60 per cent of the total vaccine doses required on the continent by 2040. The ultimate goal is for a vibrant and sustainable high-value manufacturing and biomedical ecosystem, with a clear African and global pandemic preparedness dividend.

Matching ambition with coordination

Based on committed investments, to date more than 30 projects to strengthen African manufacturing have been announced in 14 countries, under the aegis of the Partnerships for African Vaccine Manufacturing (PAVM) Framework for Action. With so many initiatives in different countries, it is essential that African countries and Africa CDC continue to work together to ensure projects are coordinated and complementary. Alignment and partnership is key to ensuring that as many projects as possible are economically viable, and thus that the growth of African manufacturing is strong and sustainable.

A strong African vaccine manufacturing sector is an opportunity, not a threat

Today, Africa relies on partners and existing manufacturers to provide the technology it needs to expand vaccine manufacturing across a range of platforms. But technology transfer takes time and resources, affording innovators, investors, and the owners of existing technology a significant time for adjustment  time that can be used to identify the opportunities, rather than the threats, that the process can offer.

In many senses Africa today is in a similar situation to India several decades ago, which has since become the powerhouse of global vaccine manufacturing, supplying 50 per cent of the worlds and majority of Africas vaccination needs. But India didnt do it alone. Africa needs similar levels of investment and support to fulfill our aspiration of health security. Moreover, Africa needs investments from its own member states, and a commitment to buy African to drive sustainability in the sector.

Demand-side initiatives to support Africas journey to sustainable manufacturing, including Gavis much anticipated African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA) and Africa CDCs proposed pooled procurement mechanism, are strong signals to technology partners in the medium term that African vaccine manufacturing can be sustained for the long term.

African vaccine equity and global health security are indivisible

In light of the pandemic, there has been a chorus of calls for global support for Africas vaccine manufacturing aspirations. Gavis AVMA proposal has the potential to be a major step in the right direction, and a powerful signal to other donors and investors that African vaccine manufacturing has a bright future.

If approved by Gavis Board this week, as hoped for, AVMAs mix of incentives could support the growth of a manufacturing ecosystem in Africa with both economic benefits and a payoff in terms of pandemic prevention.

Building sustainable African vaccine manufacturing is a non-negotiable objective of Africa. As part of this, we are focusing on building the enablers for a vibrant manufacturing ecosystem, such as the free movement of goods and services, incentivising the building of a skilled and capable continental workforce, implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area, and other key initiatives.

Together with our partners, we aim to deliver global equity and African health security as well as greater economic, technical, and social participation for Africa by Africa.

Dr Jean Kaseya, is Director-General of the Africa CDC and Prof. William Ampofo is Chairman of the African Vaccine Manufacturing Initiative

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The candidates stand on stage before the start of the debate. (Jonathan Newton / The Washington Post via Getty Images file)

WASHINGTON  While the Republican presidential primary field is shrinking, President Joe Bidens re-election campaign is expanding its war room operation this week to include back-to-back rapid responses to both former President Donald Trumps town hall with Fox News on Tuesday night and the final GOP debate before the Iowa caucuses on Wednesday.

The Biden campaign, which largely expects Trump to be his partys nominee, will treat the two events as having equal stature, according to a campaign official, who shared the plan first with NBC News.

The response to Trumps appearance in Iowa with host Sean Hannity and the debate in Alabama will have a lot of similarities, the campaign official said. Democrats will seek to illustrate what a Trump presidency would look like if he were to win the White House again, which has been a recent theme for the 2024 re-election effort.

Between tonights fair and balanced Trump town hall and tomorrow nights debate, Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans extreme agenda for 2025 will be on full display, Biden campaign spokesman Ammar Moussa said. Every single Republican is in lockstep support of ripping health care away from millions of Americans, taking away freedoms, and banning abortion.

For months, the Biden campaigns argument has been that whether Trump clinches the nomination or not, the GOP platform will be based upon his MAGA agenda.

In Alabama in particular, the official said, Biden campaign surrogates will make the case that if Trump is victorious next year, the state would be a preview in some ways of what the country could look like when it comes to a near-total abortion ban and cuts to Medicaid coverage.

The Biden campaign plans to put up billboards around Tuscaloosa slamming Republicans on their agenda, as it has during past debates.

Former Alabama Sen. Doug Jones, a Democrat, and Biden campaign principal deputy campaign manager Quentin Fulks will be on the ground to offer their reaction and hold a news conference Wednesday morning.

Trump, who hasnt participated in any of the primary debates so far, will instead attend a fundraiser in Florida for his campaign.

He will, however, have the opportunity to generate his own headlines the next day, when he is likely to attend his New York business fraud trial on Thursday for the first time in more than a month, according to a source familiar with the plans.

The dwindling GOP field, which has seen several candidates drop out in recent weeks, will be the smallest it has been on the debate stage so far.

Only four candidates will appear, based on criteria from the Republican National Committee: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.

Democrats will attempt to tie all of them to Trumps positions and policies, the campaign official said, while contrasting them with Bidens time in office.

Were going to highlight the choice Americans have next November between the MAGA Trump toxic, extreme agenda, and President Bidens proven track record of lowering costs and delivering for middle class families  the stakes of next years election could not be higher, Moussa said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Ukraine's air defense forces downed 41 out of 48 Russian drones overnight on Dec. 6, the Air Force said on Telegram. Russian drones were spotted over Chernihiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Lviv, and Kherson oblasts.

Moscow has relentlessly targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure using inexpensive Iranian-made Shahed UAVs.

On Nov. 25, more than 75 Iranian-made Shahed drones were fired at Kyiv with all but one being shot down. According to the Air Force, Russia launched the drones from Kursk Oblast and Primorsko-Akhtarsk, a Russian port town and the administrative center of Primorsko-Akhtarsky District of Krasnodar Krai.

As a result of the Nov. 25 attack, at least two people were injured and several residential and non-residential buildings were damaged across the city.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has called drone strikes an act of "willful terror" and said that Ukraine will "continue to work to unite the world in defense against Russian terror."

Drone strikes damage Odesa port infrastructure The attack damaged warehouses, loading equipment, and trucks carrying grain, Odesa Oblast Governor Oleh Kiper reported. The Kyiv IndependentAbbey Fenbert

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TOKYO  All eight crew members aboard a U.S. military Osprey aircraft that crashed off Japan last week have been confirmed dead, the Air Force said.

The CV-22B Osprey crashed into waters near Yakushima, an island off Japans southern main island of Kyushu, during a routine training mission on Nov. 29. Officials said Tuesday that search-and-rescue operations were being shifted to search-and-recovery operations, indicating that no survivors are likely to be found.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends and peers of all who are impacted by this mishap and loss of life, Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, the commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, said in a statement.

The remains of three of the airmen have been recovered and those of three others have been located and are being recovered, and the search continues for the remains of the two others, the statement said.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said that he was deeply saddened by the loss of the eight airmen and that there would be a rigorous and thorough investigation.

The entire Department of Defense mourns alongside the families and the loved ones of those who lost their lives today in the service of their country, he said in a statement Tuesday. My heart also goes out to those who were serving alongside these brave men and women in Japan.

He said the U.S. was grateful for the search-and-rescue efforts by the Japanese military and coast guard and local communities, including fishermen.

One crew member, Staff Sgt. Jake M. Galliher, 24, of Pittsfield, Massachusetts, was identified last week after his body was recovered near the site of the crash.

US airmen confirmed dead in Japan Osprey crash (Yokota Air Base)

The seven other crew members were identified Tuesday as Maj. Jeffrey T. Hoernemann, 32, of Andover, Minnesota; Maj. Eric V. Spendlove, 36, of St. George, Utah; Maj. Luke A. Unrath, 34, of Riverside, California; Capt. Terrell K. Brayman, 32, of Pittsford, New York; Tech. Sgt. Zachary E. Lavoy, 33, of Oviedo, Florida; Staff Sgt. Jake M. Turnage, 25, of Kennesaw, Georgia; and Senior Airman Brian K. Johnson, 32, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio.

In a letter of condolence to President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed heartfelt gratitude to the members of the U.S. Forces Japan who carry out missions day and night, far away from their hometowns and families, to maintain peace and security of Japan and the surrounding region.

More than 50,000 American military personnel are based in Japan, a U.S. treaty ally, more than in any other country.

The Osprey, an American hybrid aircraft that takes off, lands and hovers like a helicopter but flies like a fixed-wing plane, has had several fatal crashes in recent years, raising safety concerns. Earlier this year, another Osprey aircraft with 23 U.S. Marines on board crashed in Australia, killing three of them.

After the crash last week, Japan suspended flights of its own Ospreys until the circumstances surrounding the accident become clear and asked U.S. forces to do the same.

Though CV-22B Ospreys assigned to the Yokota Air Base unit involved in the crash are now not conducting flight operations, according to the Defense Department, other Ospreys in the region are still flying, officials said.

Arata Yamamoto reported from Tokyo and Larissa Gao from Hong Kong.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Ukraine's Air Force reported a downed Russian Su-24M bomber aircraft as it attempted to launch missiles towards targets in Odesa Oblast, the Commander of Ukraine's Air Force said in a post on Telegram on Dec. 5.

Lieutenant General Mykola Oleschuk stated that a Ukrainian anti-aircraft missile took down the aircraft, under cover of a Su-30SM fighter plane, as Russia's military planned to strike the southern part of Odesa Oblast.

Strikes against targets in Odesa Oblast have become a frequent occurrence since the start of Russia's war in Ukraine. Situated on the Black Sea, Odesa serves as a central port for trade in the region.

Snake Island, located 35 kilometers from the mainland of Odesa Oblast, is synonymous with Ukrainian resistance. On Feb. 24, 2022, at the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion, a Ukrainian border guard famously responded, "Russian warship, go f*** yourself," when prompted to surrender by Russia's navy.

Occupying Snake Island effectively allowed Russian forces to launch a blockade of Odesa's Black Sea ports and direct missile attacks against Ukraine until April 14, 2022, when Ukraine successfully sunk the Moskva, the flagship of Russia's Black Sea Fleet.

President Volodymyr Zelensky marked 500 days of Russia's full-scale war by visiting the island earlier this year with a video filmed on Snake Island, promising that Ukraine will reclaim every part of its territory currently occupied by Russia.

Ukraine war latest: Putin to visit Saudi Arabia, UAE; Qatar announces return of 6 Ukrainian children from Russia Key developments on Dec. 5: * Putin to visit Saudi Arabia, UAE * Qatar announces return of 6 Ukrainian children from Russia * Official: Ukrainian volunteer killed in Russian attack on International Volunteer Day * UK Defense Ministry: Russian forces control most of destroyed Marinka Russian Pr The Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk

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Editors note: This story was updated at 5:30 p.m. EST with a statement from Air Force Reserve Command.

A staff sergeant in the U.S. Air Force Reserve from Texas was arrested Wednesday on felony charges related to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot, where authorities say he pushed and grabbed police officers and called one officer a traitor.

Kyle Douglas McMahan, 41, of Watauga, was taken into custody in Dallas nearly three years after authorities say he joined the pro-Trump mob that attacked the Capitol wearing a red Make America Great Again hat with God written on it in black marker.

After the riot, his Google search history included: Can I resign from the military if I do not want to serve an illegitimate president? and capitol terrorists identified, according to court papers.

He faces felony charges of assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers and obstruction of law enforcement, as well as additional misdemeanor offenses.

There was no lawyer immediately named in the court docket. The voice mailbox was full for a number listed for McMahan and a person who answered the phone at a number listed for a relative declined to comment.

The Air Force Reserve Command said in an emailed statement that McMahan is a reservist at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas. McMahan is a staff sergeant in the 301st Fighter Wing medical squadron and a traditional reservist who is not actively participating in the unit, the command said.

Authorities say McMahan was seen on camera pushing back and forth against an officer outside a Capitol door before going into the building. During another encounter with law enforcement inside, prosecutors say he attempted to swat at an officer and grabbed an officers fingers, appearing to crush them in his hand.

Before he left the Capitol, he was captured on video telling one officer: Youre a traitor, according to court papers. Later that day, he was seen outside the Capitol wearing a green ballistics helmet and carrying an American flag.

Authorities say McMahan boasted on social media about being at the riot, writing: For those that think we went in because of Trump is uninformed. We the people are the ones that need to rid our government of corruption, abuse and tyranny!

He is among roughly 1,200 people who have been charged with federal crimes stemming from the riot that left dozens of police officers injured and halted the certification of President Joe Bidens election victory. Those charged include dozens of former and active duty military or members of the reserve.

Nearly 900 defendants pleaded guilty or were convicted by a judge or jury after trials. Over 700 of them have been sentenced, with roughly two-thirds receiving prison sentences ranging from three days to 22 years.

Richer reported from Boston. AP Researcher Jennifer Farrar in New York contributed.
While walking through the Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration, and then the National Memorial for Peace and Justice last month in Montgomery, Alabama, I couldnt help but imagine how a deep dive here by more people could finally serve as a lasting solution to the nations problem of violent crime.

The sites are operated by the Equal Justice Initiative, founded in 1989 by Bryan Stevenson. The organization combats racial injustice, illegal convictions, unfair sentencing, the death penalty and excessive punishment while helping ex-offenders reenter society.

I was among the hundreds of people attending the international conference of the National Association for Multicultural Education last month touring the Equal Justice Initiative sites. Stevenson, author of the bestseller Just Mercy, also spoke to a packed ballroom of pre-kindergarten through college educators at the conference.

Rather than punishment, Stevenson said, society needs to show compassion, concern and love to offenders. Its not liberal nonsense.

Instead of overloading jails and prisons with young men and women, communities like Kansas City should invest money to bus them to Montgomery for an intensive, supervised study of the Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice.

Its a different system of education and rehabilitation that would expose young people to the nations hateful history of violence, and teach them how to be part of the solution to it rather than contribute to the ongoing problem. As Kansas Citys homicide count rises this year to a shameful record, people would learn to value life at the Equal Justice Initiative sites rather than to take it.

Proximity is the key to our capacity to make a difference, Stevenson said. If people want justice, he said, they must get uncomfortably close to injustice.

That is the exact opposite of conservative groups nationwide pushing book bans, attacking educators teaching diversity, equity and inclusion, and insisting we shouldnt be woke to ongoing injustices. Their idea is that students get only a pretty picture of America  minus its brutal history of slavery, Jim Crow, white supremacy, racism, discrimination and ever-present implicit bias.

In the Legacy Museum, young people will come face-to-face with the griping reality of the trans-Atlantic slave trade. The subdued lighting, the video and sound of waves crashing ashore and sculptures of dozens of Black bodies emerging from the sand immediately grab visitors attention.

They will see videos recounting the rushing swarm of ships carrying kidnapped Africans crossing the Atlantic Ocean in bondage to be delivered each year to different American states. Other exhibits and interactive stations help inform visitors of the slaverys enormous reach into this countrys social, political and economic development. The labor from the human cargo  though unjust  enriched white Europeans, laying the foundation for todays U.S. superpower status with no reparations at all for Black Americans.

Even after the Civil War, Reconstruction and the 13th, 14th and 15th amendments to the Constitution, Jim Crow, segregation and white supremacy prevailed, resulting in other forms of racial oppression, including the growth of the U.S. prison-industrial complex, locking almost 2 million people behind bars  the most in the world.

Stevenson told educators that 1 in 3 Black male babies and 1 in 6 Latino babies can expect to go to prison in the United States. In some ZIP codes, 70% to 80% of children can expect to go to prison in their lifetime, he said. That chilling reality permeated the museum and national memorial. But taught the right way, it could get offenders to direct their lives onto a better path.

The nation just needs some angel investors to help make the road trip to Montgomery for offenders and their transformation possible.

At the 6-acre National Memorial for Peace and Justice, visitors are solemnly exposed to the decadeslong domestic terrorism of more than 4,000 recorded lynchings in America between 1877 and 1950. They are noted on more than 800 coffin-like hanging steel rectangles, each red with rust and deeply engraved with the names of U.S. counties, where documented lynchings occurred. Counties in Missouri are included.

In the Legacy Museum is a large wall of shelves filled with dozens of gallon-size glass jars containing soil samples with the DNA of the lynching victims pulled from the roots of some of the trees where Black people were hanged.

Seeing this history of suffering that African Americans endured, and the senseless reasons for their deaths, should make offenders question why they would want to feed into such continuing violence and to turn instead to value the lives of others and their own like never before.

Stevenson told educators that our society must never run from the truth about the past. People cant get the remedy right if they hide from the truth. Educators have a special responsibility to teach everyone to work for peace and justice to repair the poverty and injustice in America.

Fear also should have no place in such truth-seeking and truth-telling. Young people quickly see through that. Confronting fear and the truth remain our constant challenges.

Lewis W. Diuguid is a former longtime journalist for The Kansas City Star. He serves as chair of the political action committee of the National Association for Multicultural Education.
Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.) endorsed former President Trump for the Republican nomination for president in 2024 on Wednesday, as the other candidates in the race are set to face off in her home state.

In an op-ed published ahead of the fourth GOP debate, which Trump is skipping, Britt said Trump has proven that he is capable of handling the job as president, improving security at the U.S. southern border and achieving peace through strength.

And thats why President Donald Trump has my endorsement to be our 47th President, Britt said. Results matter  and the results of his strong leadership as the 45th President of the United States are clear for all to see. These past three years have felt like an eternity, but Im sure you recall how much better off we were under the Trump Administration.

Britt pointed to lower gas prices and costs for eggs and milk during Trumps presidency as evidence of his policies at work. She noted that the Trump administration cut taxes and reduced regulations and argued that he secured the border, fought for fair trade, made communities safer and unleashed U.S. energy dominance.

Thats why President Trump is dominating in the polls and why his insurmountable lead only continues to grow as primary dates draw closer, she said.

Britts endorsement came ahead of the Tuscaloosa, Ala., debate that will feature Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. Trump is skipping the fourth debate in a row, instead attending a private fundraiser.

People who want to watch the debate can click here to find NewsNation  which, like The Hill, is owned by Nexstar Media Group  in their cable market, and information on how to stream the debate.

Trump has already secured endorsements from the rest of Alabamas Republican congressional delegation, including Britts fellow Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R). Britt was the last one who had yet to make an endorsement.

Trump has built up a significant lead over his GOP rivals toward establishing himself as the clear front-runner in the race. He also has attained many more congressional endorsements than any of the other Republican candidates.

For our future  for the ability of the next generation to fulfill the promise that is the American Dream  its time to ensure President Biden only gets one term. Now, lets come together and move forward towards November 2024, Britt said.

Trump also secured endorsements on Tuesday from North Dakota Sens. Kevin Cramer (R) and John Hoeven (R), who had previously backed North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum.

Burgum dropped out of the race on Monday after failing to gain traction in the polls.

Updated: 1:39 p.m. ET

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The City of Alamogordo is thrilled to announce the new City Manager, Mr. Rick Holden. Mr. Holden comes to Alamogordo with an impressive background, having served in various roles in City Government and private public utilities.

His journey, from a police officer to City Manager, reflects a wealth of experience, including stints in the United States Air Force, Fort Worth health department, and major natural gas companies. Alamogordo has always been on Mr. Holdens radar, thanks to his familys mountain retreat in Cloudcroft, New Mexico.

His familiarity with the area, combined with a love for the mountains, made him eager to take on the role of City Manager when the opportunity arose in Summer 2023. Alamogordo struck Mr. Holden with its commercial layout reminiscent of Cleburne, Texas, and the breathtaking mountain scenery. He emphasizes the importance of Holloman Air Force Base to the local economy and applauds the welcoming nature of the community.

Mr. Holden envisions a future for Alamogordo that focuses on beautification, education, and attracting tourists. He sees vast opportunities to showcase the enchanting features of New Mexico and wants to collaborate with the community to make these visions a reality. During his recent visit, to the Alameda Park Zoo, Mr. Holden was impressed, recognizing it as a remarkable asset for the city.

He plans to be a visible and accessible City Manager, fostering strong relationships with employees, citizens, and key stakeholders. Collaboration is key, and he emphasizes the importance of partnerships with the Center of Commerce, Holloman Air Force Base, Alamogordo Public Schools, and Otero County. Already, Mr. Holden has attended joint meetings to strengthen collaboration between the City Commission and Otero County Commission. He commends this initiative as a positive step towards working together, combining resources, and addressing common interests.
An off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot accused of trying to turn off the engines during a flight in October was indicted Tuesday by a grand jury in Oregon on 84 charges.

Multnomah County, Ore., District Attorney Mike Schmidt announced Tuesday the grand jury chose to indict Joseph David Emerson, 44, on 83 counts of recklessly endangering another person and one count of endangering an aircraft in the first degree. Emerson is accused of trying to grab two handles that cut off fuel to its engines during an Oct. 22 Horizon flight.

The jury declined to indict Emerson on the 83 counts of attempted murder, which he was originally charged with when booked at the Multnomah County Sheriffs Office in October. He pleaded not guilty to the initial charges in October, according to ABC News.

Emersons attorneys, from LMH Legal Group, said the attempted murder charges were never appropriate because Emerson never intended to hurt another person or put anyone at risk.

[Emerson] just wanted to return home to his wife and children, LMH Legal Group wrote in a statement to The Hill. Simply put: Captain Emerson thought he was in a dream; his actions were taken in a single-minded effort to wake up from that dream and return home to his family.

Emersons lawyers said they are still disappointed by Tuesdays indictment and stressed a grand jury only needs to find probable cause that a crime was committed to indict a suspect.

He is being held at the Multonomah County Detention Center in Portland, Ore., and is scheduled to be arraigned Thursday morning.

Prosecutors allege Emerson, who was authorized to ride in the cockpits jump seat, was having a conversation with the captain and first officer during an Oct. 22 flight when he told them, Im not OK, and attempted to grab two handles that activate the planes fire suppression system and cut off fuel to its engines.

One of the pilots grabbed Emersons wrist and an in-flight emergency was declared, according to court filings with the U.S. District Court in Oregon, where Emerson faces an additional federal charge.

A brief struggle ensued between Emerson and the pilots before he quickly settled down and left the cockpit, filings stated. Pilots were forced to divert the plane  which was en route to San Diego from Everett, Wash.  and instead landed in Portland.

Once the plane landed, Emerson told responding officers he believed he was having a nervous breakdown, hadnt slept in 40 hours and admitted to taking psilocybin, found in psychedelic mushrooms, about 48 hours prior, federal prosecutors previously said. He also waived his right to an attorney, telling authorities he was admitting to what I did, and that he was not fighting any charges you want to bring against me.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
On Monday, the Department of Justice announced the arrest of a longtime United States diplomat and national security figure named Victor Manuel Rocha on charges that he has acted for decades as an agent of a foreign government, namely Cubas. Since 1981, a criminal complaint against Rocha says, he worked for the State Department, National Security Council, and U.S. militaryeven serving from 1999 until 2002 as the American ambassador to Boliviawhile surreptitiously working to advance the interests of Fidel Castros communist Cuban regime.

A separate grand jury indictment filed Tuesday expanded on the accusation, charging Rocha with seeking sensitive and classified U.S. material so that he could provide such information to agents or representatives of the Republic of Cuba.

Neither the complaint nor the indictment against Rocha describes any alleged instances in which Rocha passed on classified information. (A former CIA officer interviewed by NPR said that the investigation into when he may have done so, now that Rocha has been identified as an alleged mole, may take multiple years.) The documents do, however, recount meetings that are said to have taken place in 2022 and 2023 between Rocha and an undercover FBI agent who presented himself as Rochas new contact from the Cuban government. (Fidel Castro died in 2016; the country is currently led by Miguel Diaz-Canel.)

In those meetings, by prosecutors account, Rocha said a lot of incriminating stuff, including:

 Stating his confidence that theyi.e., U.S. authoritieswouldnt know the meeting was taking place (whoops!) because hed traveled to it via a circuitous route like he had been told to do during his training.

 Instructing the undercover agent not to use the words C or H (i.e., Cuba or Havana) in their conversations and to instead use euphemistic terms such as the island.

 Attesting that, for security reasons, he never wrote Cuba-related information down.

 Stating that the Direccion, i.e., the Cuban directorate of intelligence, had asked him to create the appearance of living a normal life as part of his legend. (He also asked the undercover agent to give the Direccion his warmest regards and referred to Castro as the comandante.)

 Expressing pride about having strengthened the Revolution, work that he described as being of enormous importance to Cuba and a grand slam for the countrys interests.

 Referring to the United States as the enemy. (LOL.)

Your author is not an expert in the field of espionage but suspects that telling someone youve just met, at length, about your work as a double agent is not a best practice. (It also raises the question of how it took so long for the U.S. counterintelligence apparatus to learn about his alleged behavior.) Rocha, who is 73, appeared at a court hearing on Monday but has not commented on the charges.
After a former staff member reported allegations of abuse at an Enid center for people with developmental disabilities, her photo and phone number appeared on flyers suggesting she was available for sexual encounters, she wrote in court documents.

The flyers were posted around Enid, including on trees near another local facility for people with developmental disabilities one morning in early June, according to a police report.

A few weeks later, the woman filed four protective orders in Garfield County District Court against coworkers at the Robert M. Greer Center in Enid. The 52-bed, state-owned facility has been at the center of an unfolding scandal involving allegations of widespread abuse of its vulnerable residents. The Oklahoma Department of Human Services continued to refer clients to the troubled center for months after reports of systemic abuse first surfaced.

The woman wrote in applications for protective orders that her coworkers had admitted to hanging the flyers around Enid to retaliate against her for reporting abuse. A judge granted all four emergency orders of protection, and all but one of the orders are still active. The woman no longer works at the Greer Center.

A court document describes flyers found around Enid in June of a former Greer Center staffer who had reported abuse between staff and residents at the facility. The staffer wrote that the flyers were retaliation for reporting the abuse.

The Frontier is not naming the former Greer Center employee who reported abuse because of safety concerns. Because none of the people she filed protective orders against have been criminally charged, The Frontier is not naming them either.

Liberty of Oklahoma Corporation, the private, for-profit company that contracts with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services to manage the Greer Center, did not answer questions about whether employees accused of hanging the flyers faced any disciplinary action or if they still work at the center.

Over the past month, police have arrested six people, including a shift supervisor, on charges of conspiracy and caretaker abuse for allegedly abusing multiple residents over the last year at the Greer Center. Police began investigating the center after the former Greer employee reported systemic abuse at the facility in June, court documents say.

We are deeply disturbed by the reports of abuse and consider such behavior to be wholly inappropriate and unacceptable, said Sue Nayda, chief operating officer of Liberty. The company said it couldnt comment on specifics because of pending investigations.

The abuse included choking clients until they were unconscious and then beating them until they regained consciousness, forms of waterboarding in the facilitys showers and enticing other clients to participate in the abuse of specific clients, according to police. Court documents say that at least one employee tried to tell a Greer Center administrator about abuse but he had refused to listen.

The Department of Human Services still didnt halt new admissions to the facility until Nov. 16, two days after the first arrests were made and five months after systemic abuse was first reported to police.

The agency said it wasnt able to begin connecting all the incidents of abuse until someone made a report to Enid police on Oct. 30, which led the agency to halt admissions and raise safety protocols for remaining residents. The Enid Police Department couldnt confirm to The Frontier that it received an abuse report on Oct. 30.

I think we have an opinion that if theyre getting serious allegations like this  multiple ones  that perhaps they shouldnt continue to admit people until they figure it out, said Joy Turner, director of investigations and monitoring for the Oklahoma Disability Law Center.

Repetitive reports, even if they arent substantiated, should be a red flag, she said. Photos of the survivors turned in to police show serious bruising, which Turner said should have been seen by staff when helping individuals with bathing or dressing.

Some kind of light bulb has got to go off, Turner said. The Law Center has opened its own investigation into the Greer Center and how state agencies handled reports of abuse.

The Oklahoma Department of Human Services investigators didnt see an imminent safety threat to residents when the incidents were initially reported, said agency spokeswoman Casey White. When the agency first investigated, the incidents did not appear to be connected, White said.

The Department of Human Services says it notified Enid police at the beginning of every investigation into allegations of abuse at Greer, but didnt provide a date to The Frontier of when those investigations began. The agency isnt legally obligated to update law enforcement about investigations into abuse of vulnerable adults beyond the initial notification unless investigators see immediate, serious safety concerns, according to state rules.

The Enid Police Department didnt launch its own investigation until it received a report about the alleged abuse in June. Enid Detective Frank Bruno said it was then that he learned the Department of Human Services had already been investigating the Greer Center.

Bruno wrote in an affidavit that several of the alleged incidents of caretaker abuse at the Greer Center had also been investigated by DHSs Office of Client Advocacy, but several of the investigations could not be substantiated due to the staff at the Greer Center not cooperating and victims being nonverbal.

The Department of Human Services denied in a statement to The Frontier that it had any difficulty conducting interviews with victims and staff or getting documents related to the cases.

Reports of abuse or neglect at residential facilities nationwide are not unheard-of.

It can be difficult to investigate and prosecute allegations of abuse because some vulnerable adults may be nonverbal, Bruno said. Enid police have focused their investigation on instances of abuse with witnesses and victims that could be interviewed directly.

A 2018 audit of group homes for people with developmental disabilities by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General in a handful of states found that residents often experienced serious injuries and medical conditions that resulted in emergency room visits.

Between 2017 to 2019, people with cognitive disabilities were almost seven times more likely to be the victim of a violent crime than those that didnt have a disability, according to the federal U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics.

Following a major lawsuit alleging abuse and neglect in the 1980s, Oklahoma shut down Hissom Memorial Center in Sand Springs  one of the states residential facilities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Over the next several decades, other residential facilities were closed in favor of community-based services. The Disability Law Center has investigated other reports of abuse at the Greer Center over the past few decades.

Greer Center staff are required to report abuse under the states mandatory reporting laws. State investigators will make face-to-face contact with victims, interview staff and review records. Department of Human Services investigative reports into allegations of abuse are kept private.

The Department of Human Services investigation of Greer is still ongoing. The results of the investigation will be given to the State Department of Health and the Garfield County district attorney, the agency said.

Liberty of Oklahoma Corporation is affiliated with Liberty Healthcare Corporation, a private, for-profit company based in Pennsylvania. Liberty also has contracts with the state to manage two facilities for youth with developmental disabilities and to end the states years-long waitlist for developmental disability services. Millions in taxpayer funds have gone to the company, according to a state fiscal transparency website. Last year, the company faced a data breach of personal information from over 5,000 families on the waiting list for services.

Liberty didnt answer specific questions about what remedial steps the company would take or how staff or administrators could have been unaware of the abuse.

The Department of Human Services can end contracts with providers, but the agency said Greer is the only facility of its kind in the state that can meet the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and mental or behavioral health challenges.

A spokesperson for the Department of Human Services said Greer center staff already received additional training on how to report abuse and neglect, and the agency has placed staff on-site 24/7 for safety monitoring. Liberty is sending daily reports to the agency, a Department of Human Services spokesperson said, and has brought in two out-of-state investigators to overhaul their internal investigation process.

The Frontier is a nonprofit newsroom that produces fearless journalism with impact in Oklahoma. Read more at www.readfrontier.org.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: After alleging abuse, Greer Center staffer found flyers advertising her for sex acts
Lauren Erickson Van Wart was a 'dear and trusted colleague and friend', her employers said

A bride mauled to death by a shark in the Bahamas a day after her wedding has been named as Lauren Erickson Van Wart, 44, a maths teaching specialist from Massachusetts.

Ms Van Wart and her new husband were paddleboarding on Monday when they were attacked by the 14ft predator.

She was knocked off her board when the shark pulled it under, and suffered severe bites along the right side of her body. She was dead by the time she was recovered by lifeguards and brought to the beach.

Her husband was not injured in the attack, which happened about three-quarters of a mile off shore and was the second in the Caribbean country in a month.

Ms Van Wart lived in Lowell, north of Boston, and worked as an editor for a company called Curriculum Associates, which provides resources for schools.

The body of Ms Van Wart is brought ashore by police mortuary personnel near the resort - DANTE CARRER/REUTERS

She and her new husband were honeymooning at the five-star Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort on New Providence island.

The company Ms Van Wart worked for said her friends and colleagues were heartbroken and paid tribute to her commitment to students.

Our team is heartbroken and grieving the loss of a dear and trusted colleague and friend, it said.

Lauren was a beloved member of our math editorial team, and she infused her deep dedication to students and educators into every material she touched.

The firm added that it extended our deepest love and support to Laurens wonderful husband and all of her family.

Neighbours in Lowell said they were devastated to hear of her death.

Trip of a lifetime. Its heartbreaking, it really is, Lowell resident Stack Emerson told CBS News. Shocking. These poor people, they probably looked forward to this vacation for months.

It was not known what species of shark killed Ms Van Wart. The Bahamas have healthy populations of around 40 different species, including bull sharks, tiger sharks and hammerheads, all of which can be aggressive towards humans.

A 47-year-old German woman vanished there last month, and was believed to have been mauled to death while diving.

Worldwide, the chances of being killed by a shark are about one in four million. But the number of attacks has grown as the global population has increased and as more people spend time in the water, according to the International Shark Attack File, compiled by the Florida Museum of Natural History.

The fact that there have been three fatal shark attacks in the Bahamas in the past year could not be considered statistically significant, Gavin Naylor, the ISAFs programme director, told The Telegraph.

Weve had two fatalities in two weeks, which always raises eyebrows. But until we see more of a trend, I dont think it is worrying. If we were to see another one or two in the same area, we would be looking into it, he said.

Prof Naylor, who is originally from Peterborough, added: Theres a lot of sharks in The Bahamas and there are a lot of people going in the water. Its a probability issue.

One factor which can contribute to the likelihood of an attack is if tour operators tip chum  mashed-up fish blood and bones  into the water to attract sharks for visitors to observe.

If you put food into the water, its like ringing a dinner bell. Its Pavlovian. It makes them bolder, said Prof Naylor.

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Panelists speak during the ninth annual American Family Survey at the American Enterprise Institute on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, in Washington, D.C. From left to right: Christopher F. Karpowitz (speaking remotely), BYU political science professor; W. Bradford Wilcox, University of Virginia sociology professor; Richard V. Reeves, president of the American Institute for Boys and Men; Isabel Sawhill, Brookings Institution scholar; and Daniel A. Cox, American Enterprise Institute scholar. | Suzanne Bates, Deseret News

A new survey of American families shows how the storm clouds of politicization affect who decides to get married and other aspects of family life, one of the lead researchers said during a panel discussion that brought together leading experts on family in Washington, D.C., Tuesday.

And marriage is not the only place with hints of rough weather when it comes to how Americans see family life, Christopher F. Karpowitz, co-author and co-investigator of the American Family Survey, said during the release of the survey, now in its ninth year.

The survey also revealed partisan divides over what to teach children in school, what challenges families face, and how to help the growing number of families facing economic crises as government programs that existed during the pandemic have ended.

Partisan ideology colors views on abortion, whether sagging fertility rates are good or bad, and even to what extent social media contributes to teen mental health challenges.

The survey found while most married people enjoy their own marriages, they think the institution of marriage is in trouble. And support for marriage is declining among groups that used to be among the most apt to marry, including those with high levels of education and good income, said Karpowitz, who remotely joined the panel discussion to release the surveys 2023 findings.

The survey was conducted by YouGov for the Wheatley Institute and the Center for the Study of Elections and Democracy at Brigham Young University and Deseret News. The nationally representative sample of 3,000 U.S. adults has an error margin of 2.1 percentage points.

Related

Its especially concerning when that kind of culture war rhetoric has the potential to undermine the things that really do support families, and that would help families at all income levels, said Karpowitz, who co-wrote the study with Jeremy C. Pope. The two are political science professors at BYU.

Married people are happier, according to W. Bradford Wilcox, a sociology professor and director of the National Marriage Project at University of Virginia. He said his own research for the Institute for Family Studies shows people who identify marriage as a core institution generally enjoy happier marriages.

Wilcox lamented that marriage has been disincentivized among working-class Americans through policies that penalize marriage when it comes to providing support. He recounted a recent dinner where he and his wife were talking about marriage and their waitress said she and her partner were not married because if they got married she would lose Medicaid benefits for herself and her children.

He said the challenge is programs should be set up to work for couples like the woman, so it wont make more financial sense not to get married. Such policies often have kind of a subtle effect on the character and quality of the relationship and the kids perception, he noted.

Related

On the findings about social media in the survey, Isabel Sawhill, a Brookings Institution scholar, called it fascinating  and discouraging and troubling  that parents worry about kids and social media and want government to do something, but dont take action themselves with their children. I suspect they are overwhelmed by technology or afraid their kids are going to be disadvantaged with their friends and communities if they arent active on social media, she said.

The survey, among other topics, found big differences on what adults believe should be part of sex education in schools, though there was broad support for teaching something on the topic.

Richard V. Reeves, president of the American Institute for Boys and Men, said he was concerned that more parents didnt prioritize including the effects of pornography as part of sex education.

In a world where pornography is essentially ubiquitous, and the use of it is essentially universal among boys, for that not to be part of the curriculum  the boys may not understand what it is, what it can do to your brain or the addiction, etc. I thought that was in some ways one of the most troubling findings of the survey. It suggested to me parents are not taking seriously enough the potential effects of pornography, he said.

Related

Some of the disagreements seen in the survey may be due to different assumptions about even the words that are used, based on partisan lenses, Reeves said. He noted that many answers on the survey indicate Americans think differently about words like racism or consent.

In other words, said Reeves, theyre hearing a question behind the question.

That idea isnt a surprise to Daniel A. Cox, who directs AEIs American Survey Center. He said surveys on qualitative issues show that Americans often have more complex feelings about issues than a first line of questioning reveals.

In most cases, it takes a number of questions to fully flesh out someones attitudes on these questions. We even ask Americans, do you think abortion is a simple issue or a complicated matter  and most Americans say its complicated, said Cox, who moderated the discussion.

Not all issues reflect partisan divides, said Sawhill, who noted a near-universal challenge is the time squeeze. She said parents have a hard time reconciling the demands of work and the demands of taking care of the family  and that women, in particular, wrestle with it. She said shed like to think that now that people have gone through a pandemic that has disrupted their lives, people can talk about not just whether they work in person or remotely, but how to make work more flexible.
Nancy and Archie Martin's portrait is displayed on the historical marker at the intersection of Burnett and Fifth Street in downtown Ames, Iowa on Tuesday, June 13, 2023.

A plan to demolish several historic art monuments downtown has hit a bit of a snag, bolstered by nearly 150 signatures.

The City of Ames has asked for alternative options for the 16 brick pillars scattered across several intersections with 5th Street, from Duff Avenue to Pearl Avenue.

The council previously approved up to $16,000 to demolish and remove the pillars during a June meeting. A decision to either move, demolish or preserve the pillars was based on city estimates and processes the city uses to ensure compliance with rules and regulations.

More recently, the council rescinded its demolition approval, asking the Public Arts Commission to consider alternative options due to a smattering of community blowback, many of whom feel the pillars should be preserved.

The Arts Commission initially suggested the pillars be demolished but readdressed the situation during its December meeting on Tuesday.

While the board didn't overturn its previous recommendation, some members were open to alternatives. Public Arts Commission Secretary Joseph Merchant believes the city could save the pillars that aren't an obstruction while moving others that are a danger.

"Some of these (pillars) are not in a good place and should be moved," Public Art Commission Secretary Joseph Merchant said. "They've caused danger to people and shouldn't have ever been put there. There should be some sort of a compromise where the most dangerous ones are moved and the rest are preserved or reconsidered."

The demolition was initially approved at a June meeting. However, once the council learned several community members were displeased at a Nov. 16 meeting, they moved to reconsider.

More: Ames City Council to reconsider controversial downtown demolition project vote

The Ames City Council voted unanimously for the demolition of 16 brick pillars in downtown Ames. After Ames residents voiced their disapproval of the monuments' pending removal, the city will reconsider its initial vote.

What is the history of the pillars?

Fifteen four-foot tall pillars were constructed in 1999, while the final structure was produced in 2001. Each is topped with an engraved stone displaying the intersecting street names.

The project was born out of the city of Ames's downtown district development plan in the 1990s. The structures were financed through grants from the Iowa Community Cultural Grant and the Iowa Department of Affairs. The city isn't certain of an exact cost but believes it exceeded $20,000.

Ames resident Valerie Stallbaummer spoke at the Nov. 16 city council meeting on behalf of disgruntled community members. She surveyed several Ames residents and presented her findings to the Public Arts Commission on Tuesday.

Stallbaummer revealed she had secured 145 signatures in favor of the pillars. She said none of the people she surveyed thought the pillars were blocking the sidewalk or were difficult to navigate around.

"People said things I hadnt even thought of," Stallbaummer said. "(Some people) like leaning on them, which I never even thought of but have seen a couple of times. A number of people said they like to lean on them to watch the parades, or just to rest."

Stallbaummer and the other 144 petitioners pleaded the pillars be kept on behalf of their historical value.

"Teachers, history buffs and residents proud of their historic downtown Ames consider these 32 historic plaques valuable details about the heritage, origin and significant people and events of Ames," Stallbaummer said. "We Strongly believe that these artistic brick pillars should be maintained along 5th Street so that anyone can learn about and appreciate the full story of the city of Ames."

This pier at the corner of Douglas Avenue and Fifth Street pictured Tuesday, June 13, 2023, honors Farwell Tilden Brown, an Ames native and real estate appraiser for the Iowa Department of Transportation. However, his vocation was Ames History. He founded the Ames Historical Society and published four books on Ames history.

More: Ames says Main Street doesn't want pillars anymore, but leaders dispute removal

Why did the commission recommend removal?

The demolition plan derived from comments the city had received on its "Ames On The Go application." The mobile app allows residents to submit complaints or issues they have with the city.

Several visually or mobility-impaired residents said the pillars were a cause for concern on Main Street, especially during the winter. They feel the pillars are a dangerous obstruction since nine are placed in the middle of the sidewalk.

"Some of these pillars are smack dab in the middle of the sidewalk," Merchant said. "That creates four feet on each side; that's not enough. A sidewalk should be five feet, and when it's less than five feet, you're forcing somebody off on one side or into the road on another side."

A study revealed the pillars would likely fall apart if they were moved to another location, which led the commission to suggest demolition instead.

Ames Main Street also favored removing the pillars, so the commission approached the city.

"When Ames Main Street consulted with us, their letter indicated they didn't feel confident the pillars could be moved because of the amount of space that would be excavated around the pillars to get them out are two foot wide and deep," City Manager Brian Phillips said. "It might not have a great chance of moving them intact, and our city staff and Public Works Department also felt like there was a lot of risk they would fall apart if they were attempted to be moved."

Public Art Commission Chair Kyle Hauswirth said recommending demolition was one of the hardest decisions he's made in his years of service.

"I do think these pillars are unique and really fantastic, but when it came down to it my thought process was if these pillars make even one person feel like they cant experience downtown Ames, to me the tradeoff is simple," Hauswirth said. "As difficult a decision as it was, airing towards accessibility and allowing people to experience the downtown area took precedence for me personally."

More: Pipeline company prevails over Story, Shelby county ordinances

More: Artist says Ames didn't reach out before deciding to demolish public art on 5th Street

Alternative options brought before commission

The city initially justified the demolition of the monuments due to their deteriorating condition in addition to their questionable placement.

Stallbaummer said she spoke with a representative from MB Masonry LLC in Des Moines, who felt the pillars were in good condition and only needed simple repair work.

The company would be willing to clean, tuckpoint and seal each base for $5,600. With promised donations of $2,200, the city would need to pay $3,400. Stallbaummer also felt confident she could gather enough donations to cover the entire cost.

She also spoke to a concrete cutting business out of Des Moines that could move the pillars to a different location for $6,000.

"If there were some that really had to be moved because that area is high traffic, fine, let's move them someplace else," Stallbaummer said. "But I really don't think demolishing all 16 of them makes sense. I think there's more ways to look at this."

The council has agreed to revisit the pillars at a future meeting. Some members of the public arts commission agreed to be present during the council's Dec. 19 meeting to answer questions.

Celia Brocker is a government, crime, political and education reporter for the Ames Tribune. She can be reached at CBrocker@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Ames Tribune: Ames City Council hits pause on downtown pillar demolition
Two dozen Model United Nations team members from Carl Sandburg High School in Orland Park recently traveled to Rhode Island to attend Brown Universitys 27th annual Model UN conference. (School District 230)

Sandburgs Model United Nations earns Outstanding Delegation

Two dozen Model United Nations team members from Carl Sandburg High School in Orland Park recently traveled to Rhode Island to attend Brown Universitys 27th annual Model U.N. conference, BUSUN XXVII.

They spent the weekend debating and creating several comprehensive solutions to real world problems.

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Thirteen delegates received awards and overall, the Sandburg group won Outstanding Large Delegation, the clubs first team award at BUSUN.

Juniors Zion Mitchem, Adunola Ogedengbe and Aubrey Thornton, and senior Naveen Koshy won Best awards while senior Jack Maloney and juniors Danny Norbut and Sarah Allyson Torres won Outstanding awards. Senior Katie Karsky and juniors Melissa Alila, Shareen Atiya and Ava Franzese won Honorable awards and sophomore Sam Lee and senior Brady Riordan received Verbal Commendation awards.

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Frankforts Ward initiated into Omicron Delta Kappa

Julia Ward, a native of Frankfort, was recently initiated into the Virginia Military Institute Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa, the National Leadership Honor Society. The Society welcomed 348 new initiates from 12 universities during October 2023.

Monees McClellan inducted into honor society

Monees Amanda McClellan was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nations oldest all-discipline collegiate honor society. McClellan was initiated at University of Maryland Global Campus.

Palos 118 board member recognized

Pam Paris, a member of the Palos School District 118 Board of Education, has earned Board Leader Recognition status from the Illinois Association of School Boards. (School District 118)

Pam Paris, a member of the Palos School District 118 Board of Education, has been recognized by the Illinois Association of School Boards for her participation in a number of professional development and leadership activities during her service as a school board member. Paris acquired 40 credits to earn IASBs Board Leader Recognition status.

Local students present Nine at Augustana College

A few local students were among the 35 Augustana College students that worked on the production of the area premiere of Nine from Nov. 16-19.

Grey White participated as ensemble while fellow Mokena resident Maddy Overstreet participated as ensemble and featured dancer. Orland Hills Maggie Caliendo also was part of the cast.

Send news to communitynews@southtownstar.com.
The Ames Community School District is confident that the significant number of recent police visits to school buildings is representative of the strong relationship they have with the local force.

The Ames Police Department has responded to more than 700 calls at Ames schools since school resource officers were removed via a unanimous school board vote in December 2021. Of those calls, 392 were to the high school and 317 to the middle school.

Director of Communications Amy DeLashmutt said current Ames Superintendent Dr. Julious Lawson was not directly involved in the decision to remove the SRO program. But, the district retains a strong partnership with local law enforcement and the city overall, she said.

"Even in the absence of SROs, we are committed to facilitating effective communication and coordination in the event of an emergency," DeLashmutt said. "The city of Ames and the Ames Police Department partnerships are instrumental in supporting enhanced school and student safety structures across our district."

The SRO program was discontinued during the 2021-2022 academic year in a joint decision by the district and the City of Ames.

Why is there no SRO program in the Ames school district?

School resource officers are sworn law enforcement officers in a community-oriented policing assignment to work with one or more schools. Their goal is to help foster safe learning environments, provide resources to staff and build relationships with students, according to the National Association of School Resource Officers.

The City of Ames and the school district used to split the cost of the school resource officer program during the nine-month school year, with the city handling compensation during the summer months. As of 2021, the total cost of officer pay, equipment, vehicles and training was $241,512 per year, with the city paying $150,945 and the school district paying $90,567.

The Ames school board voted unanimously to end its school resource officer program two years ago. A joint recommendation from then-interim Superintendent Paula Vincent and Ames City Manager Steve Schainker sparked the decision.

More: Teachers plead for help, support at latest Ames school board meeting

When the program was dissolved, Ames Police Chief Geoff Huff said, the SROs were used more as security than to build relationships with students.

"We don't want to be enforcement for the school, that's not what our role was ever supposed to be; it was all about relationship building, Huff said. "If there was a criminal thing at the school to investigate they would do that, it was also part of the role, and we continue to do that today. People were just getting uncomfortable."

Additionally, a nationwide push in 2020 and 2021 to take resource officers out of schools added the decision, Huff said.

New school year off to rocky start

The Ames CSD superintendent addressed several recent fights at the Oct. 23 school board meeting, pledging to curtail violence.

Lawson said recent scuffles were not exclusive to a single race, program group, gender, age or grade level after taking a "deep dive" into the data.

"We are still actively working with school leaders to mitigate fights and all other acts of violence within our district," Lawson said on Oct. 23. "Fear has no place in our schools. The emotional and physical safety of our students and staff are paramount."

Current substitute and former Ames Middle School teacher Missy Springsteen-Haupt spoke to the school board at the Nov. 20 school board meeting, requesting help with a staffing shortage and a recent surge in incident reports. The teacher did not reference any specific incidents or content shared on social media, but said she was worried about how the current teacher shortage might increase.

She asked the board to consider returning an associate principal to the school.

"Its very clear if you spend even five minutes in the middle school that people are drowning," Springsteen-Haupt said on Nov. 20. "I think an immediate action that could be taken is if this board could look at things like referrals and incident reports, teachers and EAs who have been injured or harmed while working at the middle school. We need another AP back."

Students expelled during October special sessions

Two closed special sessions were held within a week of the Oct. 23 meeting to discipline several Ames High School students.

Two students were expelled from the high school and consent expulsion agreements were approved for three students. The board would not confirm if the agreements meant the students were expelled from school or not.

An incident report for a fight at the high school on Oct. 17 was filed, and videos of the alleged scuffle circulated on social media.

DeLashmutt said the number of fights at Ames High School has declined since mid-October.

The Ames Police Department.

More: Ames district pledges to improve student safety after recent high school fights

Ames PD is short-staffed but remains focused on providing safety

The Ames school district has not approached the local police department about reinstating the program despite a significant number of police visits.

Huff said the local PD doesn't have the staffing to assign officers to schools anyway, because the police department is currently down five officer positions.

Of the calls made so far during the fall semester, Ames Police has responded to 18 juvenile or assault-related calls. Huff said that not all calls on record are directly connected to the school. Police reports are run by address, so any accident, traffic stop, or another emergency near the area would be addressed, appearing on call logs as if it originated from the high school.

More: Ames school board expels students after four-hour special session

Ames CSD pledges unity, understanding and respect

The Ames school district stands firmly behind its decision to remove SROs, believing it helps provide a more inclusive atmosphere.

DeLashmutt said student discipline is handled not by SROs but by the school administration. The school district was also experiencing a wave of violence in 2021 when the program was eliminated.

"It is crucial to recognize that the issue of SROs in schools is a divisive one, stirring a range of emotions and viewpoints among our stakeholders," DeLashmutt said. "While we appreciate the diversity of opinions within our community, it is equally important to underscore our shared commitment to maintaining a school environment that prioritizes unity, understanding, and respect."

DeLashmutt said it is crucial to remember the district's strength lies in its ability to engage in open and constructive dialogue. Differences in opinion should serve as an opportunity for individuals to come together and find common ground aligning with their shared values.

Ames High School's students walk to their classes in the new school building during the first day of school Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022, in Ames, Iowa.

Racial controversy at Ames High

An SRO was accused of using a racial slur around the same time the district was considering dropping the program in 2021.

Huff said the context was entirely different and the officer did not use a slur word.

The SRO and a police intern arrived at the high school when a student  who was a person of color - walked up and called to the intern using a racial slur.

"Our SRO turned to the kid, who he knew, and said, 'Hey, don't call him the that,' but he used the word," Huff said. "The student then told a bunch of people the SRO used the word, and it got out of context from there."

Though the school district and police department were aware of the real story, Huff said rumors spiraled and the allegation got a life of its own. The police officer was removed from the high school per the request of the district and the city manager.

More: School board disciplines 2 additional Ames High students in second special session in less than a week

Ames schools, PD continue strong partnership

The police department continues to take calls for service at Ames schools. The district has also collaborated with the police department to offer an anonymous reporting system known as P3 Campus to schools.

"We still continue to have a partnership," Huff said. "It's just different than what it was before, without physically having an SRO in schools."

Celia Brocker is a government, crime, political and education reporter for the Ames Tribune. She can be reached at CBrocker@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Ames Tribune: Why doesn't the Ames CSD have school resource officers?
Amol Rajan said he cried through sessions he had with a counsellor after his father died - BBC

University Challenge host Amol Rajan has said he was so grief-stricken after his father died he thought about suicide so he could see him again.

The BBC presenter was standing on a bridge when his mind wandered to thoughts about ending my life and seeing my dad again, he said.

His father, P. Varadarajan, went into hospital last year with pneumonia aged 76 and died a short time after.

The 40-year-old said it was the biggest and [most] traumatic thing he has ever experienced, and that while he would never have taken his own life, he went through a period of profound turmoil about the point of it all.

Mr Rajan, who also presents BBC Radio 4s Today programme, told Gabby Logans Mid Point podcast he dreamt of his father every night for eight months and once cried in his sleep.

Ive never said this in public but  and I want to be very, very careful about how I say it for the obvious reasons because theres a lot of guidelines about how we talk about it  but I thought about, not doing it, but suicide and God in a way I had never before, said Mr Rajan.

Amol Rajan told the Mid Point podcast he dreamt of his father every night for eight months and once cried in his sleep

I was presenting the Today programme from Southampton. Whenever you present the Today programme from outside of London you have this mad thing where youre walking through some very dark, rainy part of Britain at 3.15 in the morning.

And I walked over a bridge and there was a train track. I did think for the first time  and Im not religious, I grew up in a religious family but Im not religious at all  I did think that there was a connection between ending my life and seeing my dad again.

Because all I ever wanted was to see my dad again. That yearning, that unbearable agony to be in the presence of someone youve lost is an unimaginable pain and I did think about that a lot.

Just to be really clear, I never actually would have taken any action, Ive never been what I call suicidal, but I made a connection in my mind between death and seeing someone again.

Mr Rajan said: anyone who is thinking about these things should speak to someone.

He added: I did [have grief counselling] and it didnt work, I had six sessions with a counsellor, I just cried through all of them.

Mr Rajan said his grief led him to trying to help others: Ive now got this weird thing, if someone I know loses their parent I write to them.

I cant believe Im admitting this but when the Queen died I wrote to the King.

Mr Rajan said theres people he doesnt know personally but wrote to regardless, citing Michael Gove as an example.

The quiz show host was born to Hindu parents in Calcutta, India, and moved to London aged three.

P. Varadarajan was a general manager at a trading company while Mr Rajans mother was a dinner lady and a nursery teacher and eventually worked in administration at the Foreign Office.

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Help Them To Hope got strong support during Copley Press years

The Hope fund gained a great deal of backing from the ownership of The News-Sun by Copley Press. Company President Helen Copley encouraged community involvement in her local newspapers.

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During the years the paper was owned by Copley Press, the Help Them To Hope fund received yearly contributions during its annual campaigns. Board representation was encouraged, with representatives from each of the major departments within the paper.

In one of the Copley years, the HTTH campaign totaled in excess of $84,000. During the ownership by Copley, the Hope fund received a total of $61,500 from the Copley Foundation, which picked up all of the administration costs of the nonprofit just as the Just family had done prior to the sale of the paper in 1984.

By 1996, Copley had eliminated local publishers and Richard Ribando was named general manager of the daily operations of The News-Sun. Ribando then took the position of HTTH president, a position he has held since that time.

Lake County News-Sun Twice-weekly News updates from Lake County delivered every Monday and Wednesday By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy >

In 2000, Copley Press sold The News-Sun and all its Illinois newspapers to Hollinger International Newspapers, owners of the Chicago Sun-Times. Hollinger reinstated local publishers at all its papers, and Ribando became publisher.

The HTTH Board of Directors continued as its own entity in partnership once again with a new owner of the paper. Ribando retired in 2006 after 38 years of employment with the paper, and remained as HTTH board president.

Help Them To Hope continued with its board made up of News-Sun employees until 2009, when Hollinger International filed for bankruptcy and the assets of the paper were sold. Help Them To Hope was now faced with an uncertain partnership with the Tribune Co.

With no more News-Sun employees to participate, the HTTH Board of Directors sought out News-Sun retirees to continue operation of the HTTH fund campaigns moving forward. For HTTH to continue, the board of directors needed to make a decision to take on all the expenses of the nonprofit.

The board has remained together with only two newer board members. Both have 10 years of loyal service to this endeavor. The HTTH board has a cumulative of 129 years of service, from 1996 to 2023.

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Next, its time to share some firsts for local organizations that only had HTTH come to their aid with seed money to create or sustain their nonprofit programs in Lake County.

Richard A. Ribando, president, Help Them To Hope, Inc.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A man is facing 223 months in prison for running a drug trafficking operation out of his home with small children, according to U.S. Attorney Dena J. King.

On Tuesday, December 5, officials say 55-year-old Charlotte resident Keith Cato Hammie was sentenced to 18 years and 7 months in prison and 4 years of supervised release for the distribution of methamphetamine.

According to court documents, Hammie sold larger and larger amounts of methamphetamine to undercover detectives four times between November 2021 and February 2022. Hammie would usually drive straight from his Charlotte home to the drug sale meeting spot and back home.

On February 10, 2022, investigators say they searched Hammies home with a warrant finding just under 2 kilos of highly pure methamphetamine, a ledger, three loaded pistols, an unloaded assault-style shotgun near ammunition and a storage unit key.

Two more arrested in connection to fatal Chester County shooting from July: SLED

After receiving a search warrant for the storage unit, authorities found trafficking amounts of cocaine and marijuana in the unit, according to officials.

According to authorities, Hammie committed the drug crimes after spending nearly two decades in federal prison for an armed bank robbery conviction and was also convicted of other state charges for armed robbery.

Officials also stressed that Hammie used his home, where his small children lived, as the center of his drug trafficking.

On August 9, 2023, Hammie pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine. He is awaiting transfer into the prison system.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
The Army has relieved a colonel in charge of a brigade that provides field support to Army units in Europe and Africa, citing a loss of trust and confidence in her ability to command.

The commander, Col. Crystal Hills of the 405th Army Field Support Brigade, was fired in November by Army Sustainment Command boss Maj. Gen. David Wilson, service spokeswoman Kimberly Conrad confirmed Monday.

Conrad did not provide further details regarding Hills removal, including whether the Army is investigating any alleged misconduct.

Col. Crystal Hills, the new commander of the 405th Army Field Support Brigade, provides remarks at the 405th AFSB change of command ceremony on Daenner Kaserne in Kaiserslautern, Germany, June 30. (Elisabeth Paque/Army)

The 405th AFS Brigade, headquartered at Daenner Kaserne in Kaiserslautern, Germany, falls under the 21st Theater Sustainment Command for U.S. Army Europe and Africa.

Hills took command of the brigade in 2022, according to an Army release. The brigade orchestrates acquisition, maintenance and other logistics for soldiers across Europe and Africa, as well as the joint forces that rely on Army stocks.

As a lieutenant colonel, Hills previously commanded the Army Field Support Battalion-Africa until 2018. The battalion managed the Armys stockpile of weapons and supplies used by troops south of the Alps, particularly the 173rd Airborne Combat Brigade in Europe and Army units in Africa, according to an Army release. The unit also managed humanitarian aid supplies for the Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

The Army declined to say who has replaced Hills in the brigades top job or where she was reassigned.
FILE - The new Fort Eisenhower sign sits outside gate one after the Fort Gordon installation redesignation ceremony to Fort Eisenhower on the base on Friday, Oct. 27, 2023.

More details about the murder of a child at Fort Eisenhower, formerly known as Fort Gordon, were recently released in an indictment by a federal grand jury.

April Evalyn Short, 30, a U.S. Army spouse at Fort Eisenhower, was indicted Wednesday on charges of premeditated murder and felony murder, according to a news release from Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.

The indictment alleges that on Nov. 15, at Fort Eisenhower, Short killed her 11-month-old child by "stabbing and cutting  with an edged weapon while engaged in the knowing and willful perpetration of child abuse," according to the release.

Short is currently in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service and awaits further proceedings, according to the release.

The case is being investigated by Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division with assistance from the FBI, according to the release.

Drug conviction: Augusta heroin dealer convicted, will face up to 25 years in prison

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Army wife indicted in murder of baby at Fort Eisenhower
ASBURY PARK - The highest ranking officer of color in the Asbury Park Police Department has named a captain as the culprit behind a sign at police headquarters designed to insult Black officers and claims that the department has retaliated against him since he complained, according to a lawsuit.

Lt. Kamil Warraich, who is president of the Fraternal Order of Police #221, criticized the leadership of the police department earlier this year after someone put up a sign on a tree nicknamed the "tree of knowledge," a popular gathering spot for Black officers to share information.

The sign described it as a spot "Where the disgruntled and misinformed can freely meet to spread lies, rumor, and conspiracy instead of doing the job they were hired to do"

Warraich told the Asbury Park Press "since I reported the tree of knowledge to the (Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office) on Sept. 12, 2023, I have been charged with multiple department initiated policy violation offenses demanding an 80-day suspension.

"I have also been the subject of new department initiated internal affair complaints for policy violations immediately after I reported additional internal misconduct to the prosecutor," he continued. "This is what usually happens to whistleblowers. I intend on having hearings open to the public so the world can see how these department executives weaponize the internal affairs system to have a chilling effect on officers who report misconduct."

Asbury Park: Schools will work with unions to teach good-paying building trades

The Tree of Knowledge is a tree located in the parking lot of the Asbury Park Police Department headquarters next to the designated parking for the marked police vehicles. This location is known for being a spot where African-American officers gather and talk. Someone posted this sign to the tree in August 2023. It was taken down two months later. Photo taken Sept. 19, 2023.

The sign was put up in early August. Fifty-nine days after officers of various ranks asked department leaders to take it down, the sign was removed, only after an Asbury Park Press reporter inquired about why it was there in the first place.

In late October, the Monmouth County Prosecutors Office installed an on-site monitor at the department, following the recent increase in Asbury Park Police officers filing internal affairs complaints against each other.

'We all need to speak up': Activists seek action after monitor named for Asbury Park cops

'A hostile work environment every day'

Warraich is still pursuing a 2020 lawsuit that described years of mistreatment and a rigged internal affairs system within the Asbury Park Police Department. He has since amended his suit to include the new claims about the tree and of retaliation since then.

You can read the full lawsuit at the bottom of this story.

Warraich made a complaint with the citys human resources department for retaliation on Nov. 3. He was told his complaint was forwarded to the city's attorneys.

"Its been a month, but I haven't heard back anything. I've also made numerous complaints to the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office regarding retaliation. Neither entity has done anything to protect me so far, contrary to whistleblower protection policies. This is why Asbury Park Police Department is in the shape that it is and why officers fear reporting misconduct," Warraich said.

He added that he has "to walk into headquarters and face a hostile work environment every day."

"The problem is that our departmental executives dont care about lawsuits. The lawyers' fees are in the hundreds of thousands, the settlements and payouts come out of the citys joint insurance fund which is ultimately paid for by taxpayers," Warraich said. "So, the police departments leaders are effectively playing with 'house money' as they manipulate the system to reward and punish whoever they wish, all while acting with impunity."

City Manager Donna Viero told the Asbury Park Press that "the city is unable to comment on pending litigation. Once this matter has been decided, it would then be appropriate for city officials to comment. At this time these are allegations that will need to be vetted in a court of law."

Legal weed: Asbury Park was supposed to be an NJ cannabis 'mecca.' What happened?

The amended complaint is one of the latest of the discrimination lawsuits against the police department under Police Chief David Kelso.

Over the last 10 years, five suits against the city have been settled in which race discrimination claims, among others, were asserted, costing the city about $1.9 million totals in defense and settlement costs, according to city officials.

Asbury Park Police Chief David Kelso, seen here in 2017.

The amended lawsuit claims Capt. David DeSane ordered the sign put up and says both Kelso and Deputy Chief Guy Thompson took no action to rectify the situation, even when officers directly complained to them. Despite the Press reporting that the plaque was up for two months, both the chief and deputy chief did not initiate an internal affairs investigation, nor did they hold anyone responsible, according to the lawsuit. The lawsuit states that "DeSane has not been held accountable for violating the rights or law with regard to the public or violation of any rules or regulations due to his treatment of other officers over the years" and that he "leads and encourages an atmosphere and culture of fear, intimidation. He supports retaliation and discrimination of (Warraich) and others in the department."

Sgt. Michael Casey, spokesperson for the Asbury Park Police Department, said "The captain is still a city employee and unable to comment on pending litigation. Once matters are decided, it would then be appropriate for a city official to comment."

Asbury Park: Bruce Springsteen donates $100,000 to restoration of historic Turf Club

'Do right by my client'

Warraich is represented by attorney Desha Jackson of Desha Jackson Law Group in Freehold. Jackson also represents Danielle Joseph, an Asbury Park businesswoman who claims in a lawsuit that DeSane and others in the police department conspired against her because of her race.

According to the Warraich lawsuit, DeSane denied training requests and undermines the authority of Warraich in front of other officers, selectively enforces rules against Warraich and claimed DeSane harassed Warraich through witness intimidation among other actions.

"It is unfortunate that the officers within and the public must endure this. Lt. Warraich has had to endure the chief, deputy chief, Capt. DeSane and others weaponizing the disciplinary process against him just because he chooses to report the misconduct of other officers," Jackson said.

"Now there is a captain's position available again and I do not believe the City of Asbury Park will do right by my client and promote him due to his reporting of their misconduct, "Jackson said.

She said "it is a typical story of failing to promote and making the person of color the problem instead of creating an environment of inclusion, acceptance and equality."

Warraich began his career with the city in September 2004 as a Class-II special police officer before joining full time in July 2007. In December 2019, he filed a complaint that the Police Department failed to investigate multiple internal affairs complaints from 2014 to 2019 and alleged a coverup by Kelso and Thompson. He filed his lawsuit the following year.

"He has been fighting now for over seven years for the department to change," Jackson said. "His lawsuit is the culmination of all the hardships to have his dream of a more inclusive department come true. Unfortunately, his race, religion and refusal to participate unlawful discriminatory behavior has led to a consistent barrage of bogus disciplinary charges."

Warraich by denpcar on Scribd

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Charles Daye is the metro reporter for Asbury Park and Neptune, with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. Contact him: CDaye@gannettnj.com @CharlesDayeAPP

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Asbury Park cop claims retaliation over his complaints of racism
Asian Bistro & Bubble Tea is open for business.

Located on West Warren Street at the Rail Trail Boardwalk, the restaurant offers a delectable variety of Asian-inspired dishes.

If youre craving Bahn mi, a Vietnamese sandwich; Thai-style pork jerky; ramen; or pork shumai, Chinese steamed dumplings, its now all available in Shelby.

Owner, Nuntapon Green, who goes by the nickname Oh, grew up in Bangkok, Thailand, and after meeting and marrying her husband, a Cleveland County native, she moved to North Carolina in 2009.

My passion is food, Green said. I like to make my own recipes.

She started out selling bubble tea at Sweet House Bakery on Marion Street and then moved into Shelby restaurant, Khop Khun Taste of Thailand, where Greene operated Bon Appetea, a bubble tea and dessert business.

Owner Nuntapon Green makes bubble tea Friday afternoon, Dec. 1, 2023, at Asian Bistro & Bubble Tea on West Warren Street in Shelby.

Now, she has taken the leap to run her own business on West Warren Street and is one of six woman-run businesses at the Rail Trail Boardwalk shops.

Asian Bistro & Bubble Tea opened several weeks ago and offers fresh new flavors, a fusion of cultures and a variety of dishes not found anywhere else in town.

Green said she does research on recipes and then adapts them to make them her own. She likes to combine Thai, Vietnamese and other Asian favorites to offer a unique menu of various rice, ramen and noodle dishes.

Owner Nuntapon Green works in the kitchen Friday afternoon, Dec. 1, 2023, at Asian Bistro & Bubble Tea on West Warren Street in Shelby.

Whatever the customer likes, she said. They can have many choices.

Green said everything made in her kitchen is fresh and made in-house.

Were trying to bring new things in town, she said. Some of our food you might not see anywhere else.

She said she hopes people will be risk takers and open to trying new things.

In addition to Bahn mi, steamed pork shumai, dumplings, Thai-style pork jerky with sticky rice, ramen, soups, and other noodle and rice dishes, the restaurant sells specialty milk teas imported from Thailand, smoothies and freshly squeezed lemonade.

Green said theyll continue to add new items, such as Thai desserts and seasonal drinks.

We also have tofu options for vegetarians, she said.

The exterior of Asian Bistro & Bubble Tea on West Warren Street in Shelby.

The menu can be found on Facebook at Asian Bistro & Bubble Tea NC or people can visit the restaurant and see a paper menu or scan a barcode. In the future, there will be options to place orders online and curbside pickup.

Green said they have catering options and people can sit down and consult with Asian Bistro to create a customized order. Next month, Green plans to offer an option where people can order from a lunchbox menu and either have it delivered within a 3-mile radius, or people can pick it up.

I dont want people to get bored eating the same things, Green said. If you want Thai food you go to a Thai restaurant, if you want Vietnamese, you go to a Vietnamese place, but if you come here, you get a little bit of everything.

In addition to crafting unique dishes, she wants to share Asian culture and food with the community.

Green said people can visit the Rail Trail Boardwalk to meet all their needs. They can shop at the two boutiques, get sweets from Sweet House Bakery, coffee from the soon-to-open Hive Coffee, and food from Asian Bistro or Ts Tiny Cafe.

She said with all that the six shops offer, she hopes the Boardwalk will become a landmark in Shelby. With the first phase of the Carolina Harmony Trail completed a short walk away and the second phase planned directly in front of the Rail Trail Boardwalk, Green said it is the perfect location to grab a drink or a bite to eat after walking the trail.

Asian Bistro & Bubble Tea is open seven days a week, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 704-885-5811 for more information or to place an order.

This article originally appeared on The Shelby Star: Shelby welcomes restaurant with Thai and Vietnamese inspired menu
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After more than a year without a permanent police chief, Atascadero has appointed a veteran law enforcement officer from elsewhere in California to the position.

Atascadero City Manager James Lewis selected Daniel Suttles, who was previously chief of police at the Bear Valley Police department in Kern County, from a national pool of candidates, according to a city news release Tuesday.

Dan is the perfect person to lead our police department at this time in our city, Lewis said in the release. He is a humble, collaborative servant leader that has an excellent grasp on modern police practices, while understanding the unique needs of a community our size. ... Im thrilled he is coming onboard.

Suttles will replace interim chief Jerel Haley, who came out of retirement to assume the role after former chief Robert Masterson was fired in September 2022 due to incompatible management styles.

Haley had been police chief in Atascadero from 2011 until retiring in October 2020.

New Atascadero police chief is veteran law enforcement officer

Suttles started his career about 20 years ago with the Glendale Police Department as a patrol officer, the release said.

He climbed the ladder at the Glendale Police Department, working as a detective; SWAT patrol officer; sergeant with the patrol bureau, financial crimes unit and internal affairs; public information officer and finishing as a lieutenant, according to the news release.

In 2022, Suttles was appointed Bear Valley police chief in Kern County.

Prior to working in law enforcement, Suttles worked as a home mortgage loan officer and served in the United States Marine Corps, the release said.

Suttles background includes developing emergency action response plans for disaster preparedness and weekly outreach and engagement efforts, such as Chats with the Chief, citizen group meetings and elder outreach programs, the release said.

Lewis highlighted Suttles commitment to community engagement in his comments about why he was selected.

His philosophy and community values mirror our citys and he believes in developing and maintaining strong community partnerships that are similar to what we strive for in our community, Lewis said. His background focuses on community engagement and relationship building, which is key to what we are already doing here and as a result of that, he is committed to continuing the high standards of the Atascadero Police Department.

He understands the importance of hard work to keep a community safe and what it takes to keep a community vibrant, Lewis continued. He also understands the importance of business partnerships to foster trust and cooperation between the members of the department and the community.

The Atascadero City Council will review Suttles contract and discuss his appointment Dec. 12.

If his appointment is confirmed, he will start work on Jan. 8, the release said.
Annie, Avery, Tim and Owen Weinthaler played the roles of a shepherd family at a Bethlehem Walk nativity pageant put on by St. Andrews Lutheran Church in Park Ridge. (Pam DeFiglio)

Roman soldiers in helmets stood guard in front of St. Andrews Lutheran Church in Park Ridge last weekend, just as they do every year at about this time.

Theyre the first sight that greets visitors to the churchs annual Bethlehem Walk, a nativity pageant put on by dozens of volunteers who play the roles of key figures in the Christmas nativity story.

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Visitors walk from scene to scene, each one put on by costumed volunteer actors. One depicts Caesar, another angels and another wise men. Traipsing outdoors, visitors then encounter a shepherd family, and later, a family keeping stable animals, including a donkey, sheep, goats and a llama.

As people come and look for shelter, we had to tell them we were full, said Krystel Pancotto, who was playing a member of the stable family along with her husband and two children. We even had to deny Mary and Joseph--we were to full even for them.

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The llama, named Cocoa, along with the other stable animals, was provided by Tower Hill stables in Hampshire.

Once back inside, visitors made their way to see another stable where Mary and Joseph were tending to the baby Jesus. On Saturday afternoon, Associate Pastor Sam Reinhard and his wife Athena were playing the roles, and their nine-month-old son Arthur was calm and alert looking at the visitors.

Athena Reinhard noted that seven babies were lined up to play the role during the pageant, which ran from 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday and 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday.

Athena, baby Arthur and Sam Reinhard play the Mary, Jesus and Joseph characters in St. Andrews Lutheran Church's Bethlehem Walk nativity pageant Dec. 2, 2023. Sam Reinhard is associate pastor at the Park Ridge church. (Pam DeFiglio)

Mike, from left, Christopher and Krystel Pancotto play the roles of the stable family during St. Andrews Lutheran Church's Bethlehem Walk nativity pageant. It's an annual event at the Park Ridge church. (Pam DeFiglio)

Linda Wolf, at top left, Lynn Trapp, at top right, Mary Christiansen, at bottom left, and Carissa Renaud perform as angels during the Bethlehem Walk nativity pageant at St. Andrews Lutheran Church in Park Ridge. (Pam DeFiglio)
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  One of Columbus most cherished holiday traditions dating back to 1974 is returning to the Ohio Theatre this week.

(Courtesy Photo/Jennifer Zmuda)

The Nutcracker opens on Thursday at the Ohio Theatre with 20 performances through Dec. 23. The production will feature more than 180 academy students and trainees alongside the professional company and BalletMet 2.

The Nutcracker has become an expectation in our community every holiday season, and we cannot wait to bring it back again this year, said BalletMet Artistic Director Edwaard Liang. Many of our dancers have performed The Nutcracker hundreds of times, but the magic of this ballet is still palpable year after year. Its an honor to share this production with Columbus yet again.

List: Ohio towns to visit during the holiday season

Ticket prices range from $38.50 to $118.30 and can be purchased at the CAPA Ticket Center at 39 E. State St. or online here.

Inspired by the sounds of composer Tchaikovsky, the classic story follows young heroine Clara who is gifted a wooden nutcracker on Christmas Eve. After falling asleep, Clara wakes to find her familys Christmas tree has tripled in size and the nutcracker has come to life. The pair go on an adventure to the land of the Sugar Plum Fairy, where Clara meets a cast of colorful characters.

Inspired by the sounds of composer Tchaikovsky, the classic story follows young heroine Clara. (Courtesy Photo/Jennifer Zmuda)

Inspired by the sounds of composer Tchaikovsky, the classic story follows young heroine Clara. (Courtesy Photo/Jennifer Zmuda)

Inspired by the sounds of composer Tchaikovsky, the classic story follows young heroine Clara. (Courtesy Photo/Jennifer Zmuda)

Inspired by the sounds of composer Tchaikovsky, the classic story follows young heroine Clara. (Courtesy Photo/Jennifer Zmuda)

Inspired by the sounds of composer Tchaikovsky, the classic story follows young heroine Clara. (Courtesy Photo/Jennifer Zmuda)

Inspired by the sounds of composer Tchaikovsky, the classic story follows young heroine Clara. (Courtesy Photo/Jennifer Zmuda)

Inspired by the sounds of composer Tchaikovsky, the classic story follows young heroine Clara. (Courtesy Photo/Jennifer Zmuda)

Inspired by the sounds of composer Tchaikovsky, the classic story follows young heroine Clara. (Courtesy Photo/Jennifer Zmuda)

Inspired by the sounds of composer Tchaikovsky, the classic story follows young heroine Clara. (Courtesy Photo/Jennifer Zmuda)

In addition to standard performances, BalletMet is offering two shortened performances on Dec. 20 and 21 at 11 a.m. designed for younger visitors. The performance is shortened to one hour with reduced noises, friendly character introductions and calming areas.

Where to meet Santa Claus in central Ohio

View all dates and times for the productions performances below:

Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 9 at noon and 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 10 at noon and 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 16 at 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 17 at noon and 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 20 at 11:00 a.m. (My First Nutcracker) and 7:30 p.m.

Dec/ 21 at 11:00 a.m. (My First Nutcracker) and 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 22 noon and 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 23 at 2 and 7:30 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
The ambassadors of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia have made a demarche to Warsaw over the month-long blockade at the Polish-Ukrainian border, stating that it undermines Kyiv's ability to defend itself against Russian aggression, Estonian public broadcaster ERR reported on Dec. 5, citing the countrys Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Brita Kikas.

Read also: European Commission slams outgoing Polish PMs position on permit system for Ukrainian truckers

"A meeting/demarche of three ambassadors of the Baltic states took place in Warsaw at the Polish Infrastructure Ministry," the report says.

The situation at the border has been discussed several times with the Polish authorities. A meeting of the Polish and Estonian foreign ministers is expected to take place soon, at which the border issue is likely to be discussed.

Tallinn respects the Polish truckers right to strike, but the border blockade has created "a difficult situation that creates problems for other carriers and additional difficulties for the Ukrainian economy". Estonia hopes for a quick resolution of the problem in the near future.

Read also: Copycat Slovak carriers plan to block UzhhorodVysne Nemecke border checkpoint on Dec. 1

The European Commission didn't mince words on Dec. 4 as it openly criticized the border blockade orchestrated by Polish carriers, adding that reverting to the permit system is utterly unacceptable.

Read also: Cargo trucks start to undergo processing on Polish border amid EU discussions

The ping-pong between Ukraine and the European Commission is unfair, said European Transport Commissioner Adina Valean. The Commission has put forward 13 measures with swift applicability to address the "legitimate concerns expressed by the protesters," she added.

There's a firm commitment in Brussels to staunchly defend the agreement on transport liberalization between Ukraine and the EU, Valean 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
Bannon, Patel say Trump dead serious about revenge on media: Were going to come after you

Steve Bannon and Kash Patel claimed that former President Trump is dead serious about exacting revenge on his political enemies if he wins a second term as president, and they warned members of the media to take the threats seriously, saying Tuesday, Were going to come after you.

In an episode of Bannons War Room podcast, Bannon and Patel, two of Trumps close allies, pledged to prosecute members of the media who lied about the 2020 presidential election results  falsely suggesting Trump truly won.

We will go out and find the conspirators  not just in government, but in the media, Patel told Bannon. Yes, were going to come after the people in the media who lied about American citizens, who helped Joe Biden rig presidential elections.

Were going to come after you. Whether its criminally or civilly, well figure that out. But yeah, were putting you all on notice, and Steve, this is why they hate us. This is why were tyrannical. This is why were dictators, Patel said, suggesting those were terms used sometimes to describe them. Because were actually going to use the Constitution to prosecute them for crimes they said we have always been guilty of but never have.

Bannon, in setting up the question to Patel, underscored the same point, mentioning MSNBCs Morning Joe show producers, as well as all media.

And I want the Morning Joe producers that watch us and all the producers that watch us  this is just not rhetoric. Were absolutely dead serious, Bannon said. You cannot have a constitutional republic and allow what these deep-staters have done to the country.

The deep state  the administrative state, the fourth branch of government, never mentioned in the Constitution  is going to be taken apart, brick by brick, and the people that did these evil deeds will be held accountable and prosecuted, criminal prosecutions, Bannon said, before asking Patel whether he thinks he can deliver the goods for the former president.

The comments underscore recent reporting about Trumps plans for a second term in the White House. Since leaving office, The New York Times reported Trump and his allies have made plans to expand executive power, prosecute his enemies and increase presidential power over bureaucratic agencies. Trump has also made clear he would get rid of career government officials and replace them with loyalists.

Patel echoed these plans in his comments Tuesday.

The one thing we learned in the Trump administration the first go-around, is we got to put in all American patriots, top to bottom, and we got them for law enforcement. We got them for intel collection, we got them for offensive operations. We got them for [Department of Defense], CIA, everywhere, he said.

Trump is the leading candidate in the 2024 GOP presidential race, leading his closest competitor by at least 30 points in most national polls. In a recent poll, Trump led President Biden in a hypothetical general election match-up between the two candidates.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
This Barbados Primary School Has Been Renamed To Honor Shirley Chisholm, A Former Student There | Photo: North Carolina Central University via Getty Images

Shirley Chisholm was a groundbreaking Black politician who championed and advocated for many, including the Black community. The first Black woman elected to Congress, her primary school in Barbados was renamed in her honor.

According to Essence, Chisholm was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Caribbean immigrant parents; her father was from Guyana, and her mother was from Barbados. Her parents sent her to live with her grandmother in the latter when she was 3 years old, and she spent most of her early years in Barbados. While there, she attended the Vauxhall Primary School, which was renamed the Shirley Chisholm Primary School in April, Barbados Today reported.

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, dignitaries, guests, and the school community attended the renaming ceremony. During her address, Mottley said its the countrys duty and honor to how Chisholm lived her lifebringing equality, equity and empathy to all that we do.

And there shall be no boundaries or limits to who we are and what we can achieve, Mottley added. I believe that in every one of us there is potential, it is for each of us to determine what is it that we do best and it is for each of us to believe in ourselves to know that we can chart new territory and new ground even when the electricity goes off.

Mottley shared that shes looked up to Chisholm throughout her career, and she hopes that renaming the school after the New Yorker will set the example of her life and equally inspires students.

I make the point all the time that the energy and confidence that our children show in the playground must be shown in the classroom, in the church, in the places of employment, in any environment that they enter because they must not be intimidated by any space whatsoever and they must believe that no one is better than them, but they are equally, not better than anyone, she said.

Mottley also announced that more plans to honor Chisholm are coming.

When the Congressional Black Caucus was here last year, we indicated that we wanted to celebrate the life of Shirley Chisholm in an appropriate way, she said. It is not an accident, I believe, that our Independence Day, our Republic Day, is the birthday of Shirley Chisholm. Its an amazing coincidence.

The Prime Minister revealed that from November 30th this year, one year of celebration here and in the United States of America to celebrate the life as we celebrate the centennial anniversary of this great Barbadian woman, Barbadian and Guyanese if we are to be fair.

In addition to the primary schools new name, a mural, bust and signage were unveiled to attendees, all celebrating different aspects of Chisholms extraordinary life.
Wilma Mankiller has many accomplishments to her name  the first female principal chief of the Cherokee Nation, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a US quarter in her likeness, to name a few.

Now, the late Cherokee leader and activist also boasts a Barbie doll in her honor.

Toy company Mattel released a Wilma Mankiller Barbie last month as part of its Inspiring Women series, commemorating her lifelong advocacy for Native and womens rights.

Many Cherokee citizens are excited about the release  the doll appears to be sold out online, while the Cherokee Nation has said there is an order backlog due to high demand. The Wilma Mankiller Barbie was also commemorated in an event on the Cherokee Nation on Tuesday.

When Native girls see it, they can achieve it, and Wilma Mankiller has shown countless young women to be fearless and speak up for Indigenous and human rights, Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said in a statement on November 7.

Wilma Mankiller is a champion for the Cherokee Nation, for Indian Country, and even my own daughter. She truly exemplifies leadership, culture and equality and we applaud Mattel for commemorating her in the Barbie Inspiring Women Series.

But even as they celebrate the tribute to the revered Cherokee leader who died in 2010, some Cherokee people acknowledge having complicated feelings around the Wilma Mankiller Barbie.

Some Cherokee people see a missed opportunity

The Wilma Mankiller Barbie is inspired by a 2005 portrait that is now archived in the Library of Congress. In the photo, taken by her husband Charlie Soap, Mankiller wears a black dress with colorful stripes and carries a woven basket.

The Barbie doll version of Mankiller also holds a basket and wears a turquoise dress with ribbon striping that represents the four directions: north, south, east and west, according to Mattels website.

Mankiller, the first female principal chief of the Cherokee Nation, served as the tribe's leader from 1985 to 1995. - J. Pat Carter/AP

For Julie Reed, the dolls design represents a missed opportunity.

Reed, an associate professor of Native American and American history at Penn State University and a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, said the basket that comes with the doll isnt woven in a traditional Cherokee pattern. Basket weaving is perhaps one of the most well known Cherokee handicrafts, and she added that this could have been an occasion for Mattel to partner with basket weavers in the community.

She also said she would have liked to see the doll include more features that were specific to Mankiller, such as her signature jewelry.

Wilma Mankiller always wore jewelry  often things that were gifted to her by artisans in the community, lots of clay bead necklaces. She was one of the first major female leaders of the tribe to wear a gorget publicly, Reed told CNN.

Basket weaving is one of the most well-known Cherokee handicrafts. Some in the Cherokee Nation criticized Mattel for not featuring Cherokee patterns in the basket included with the Wilma Mankiller Barbie. - MPI/Archive Photos/Getty Images

A Mattel spokesperson told CNN that it worked with Mankillers estate, which is led by her husband Charlie Soap and her friend Kristina Kiehl, on the design. The Cherokee Nation did not work with Mattel on the doll, though the tribe has said that does not diminish the significance of the tribute.

Some people also criticized Mattel for not involving Mankillers only surviving daughter Felicia Olaya in the design process. Though Olaya has expressed disappointment in media interviews over not being consulted, she remarked at Tuesdays celebration on the significance of Cherokee children being able to play with Wilma Mankiller Barbies.

I have warm thoughts at our next family gathering, which is Christmas, of my granddaughters, my nieces, many family members sitting on the floor playing with the Wilma Mankiller Barbie thinking that one day I hope that they become a leader or a Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, Olaya said at the event.

Molly Sequoyah of the Cherokee Nation makes a handmade basket with white oak slats in North Carolina circa 1940. - FPG/Archive Photos/Getty Images

Involving more of Mankillers family, as well as the Cherokee Nation, could have further enriched Mattels final product, said childrens author Traci Sorell.

Mattel has also been criticized for a typo contained in the Cherokee Nation seal found on the Barbies packaging, which reads Chicken Nation rather than Cherokee Nation. Had Mattel sought the input of the tribes robust language department, the error could have been avoided, she told CNN.

More collaboration and connection and community and communication would have helped this have a more successful launch and presentation, said Sorell, a Cherokee citizen who has written a childrens chapter book about Wilma Mankiller.

Reed echoed that sentiment.

I think it raises questions about how these collaborations wind up working when a corporation wants conceivably to do consultation, but doesnt even know where to begin or doesnt even have the right questions to ask, she said.

A spokesperson for Mattel told the Associated Press that it was aware of the problem and was discussing options.

Still, many Cherokee people are celebrating the tribute

Many Cherokee people, including Reed and Sorell, count Mankiller as an inspiration.

Mankiller, whose last name signifies a traditional Cherokee military rank, was born in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, in 1945 but grew up in California. She spent years advocating for Native communities in the state before returning home in 1977 to Oklahoma, where she fought for better water and housing access, according to the National Womens History Museum.

Mankiller receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House in 1998. - Diana Walker/Hulton Archive/Gamma Liaison/Getty Images

In 1985, Mankiller became principal chief of the Cherokee Nation  a position she would hold for a decade. In that role, Mankiller typically dressed in professional attire such as suits, incorporating small nods to her Cherokee roots through her accessories, Sorell said.

While the Wilma Mankiller Barbie appears to depict a younger Mankiller, Sorell said she would have liked to see Mankiller depicted in her 40s, when she served as the tribes leader.

Theres just this incredible legacy. Not that a doll is going to represent all of that legacy at all, but certainly you want to see that doll represent her in all of her power and her connection to community, Sorell said.

Even though she feels the Wilma Mankiller Barbie fell short in some ways, Sorell said shes happy to see one of her childhood role models celebrated on this level. She even bought a doll for herself, just to commemorate the moment.

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Battery swap technology has been around for a while. Nio, the Chinese EV brand, has recently passed three million battery swaps in China, and is to roll out 120 battery swap stations across mainland Europe in the next few years as it begins its European sales offensive. CATL, the Chinese battery giant, has also dabbled in various battery swap technologies for its Evogo car-sharing platform and also with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery swap tech for heavy-goods vehicles.

These roadside battery swap systems allow the cassette-style battery packs to be switched for a fully charged one in about five minutes at a dedicated roadside station. Its a faster alternative to charging  thats always been the ultimate point of battery swap technology  until now.

Iveco, the Italian commercial vehicle brand, has rethought the benefits and has now launched its eDaily range of vans. These offer a swappable, cassette-style battery system that fits neatly into the ladder-frame chassis used beneath the various eDaily vans, but rather than being a roadside swap, it is designed to offer businesses the ability to easily right size a vehicles battery for the purpose it is serving at that time.

The Iveco eDaily includes a range of van and flat-bed bodies and wheelbases, and are offered with 37kWh battery packs and can be fitted with up to three packs. Hence, you can have 37, 74 or 111kWh (35, 70 and 105kWh usable battery capacities, respectively) for a combined WLTP driving range of between 74 and 248 miles depending on the van in question, as well as the battery capacity.

Iveco eDaily vans offer 37, 74 or 111kWh battery capacities for a combined WLTP driving range of between 74 and 248 miles

These packs can easily be retrospectively added or removed from the vans modular chassis, so that the fleet manager can alter each vehicles potential range and maximum load allowance to suit its use. Each 37kWh battery pack is identical, so it also means that batteries are interchangeable between Iveco eDaily vehicles on the same fleet, allowing the batteries to be used for as long as possible. A unique reference on each pack also means that its easy to keep track of where they are and their state of health.

What about the weight and cost?

This is where the eDaily range becomes trickier to justify. Each of those battery packs weighs 270kg. So, while the modular battery system allows a business to maximise range where it is needed, or shift a pack from one vehicle to another to get best use from the available packs, adding a battery also reduces the maximum payload of the vehicle. Every van is limited to a certain overall weight and the battery is a big part of that. Basically, you can carry less stuff in the van if youve got more batteries on board.

Even so, the idea of using battery swapping as a way for businesses to maximise the use they can get out of the vehicles and batteries is a solid one, in principle.

Iveco uses lithium-ion batteries from US company, Microvast, and each pack can be removed and re-installed in about two hours at Iveco service centres. Labour costs for that battery swap havent been confirmed, but theyll be minimal next to the cost of a new 37kWh pack, which can be bought retrospectively for about 15,000.

The batteries used in the eDaily range are warrantied for eight years and 155,000 miles

The eDaily system is also designed to be able to take hydrogen fuel cell technology in the future, which is another area in which Iveco has been active  collaborating with Hyundai on a hydrogen-fuelled bus that was recently revealed, among other hydrogen projects.

Cost, then, is a huge issue for the battery-powered eDaily; its many thousands more than comparable electric vans that live with conventional, fixed-battery powertrains  never mind conventional diesel equivalents.

At least the batteries in the eDaily are warrantied for eight years and 155,000 miles (100,000 miles on a single-battery vehicle), and a performance guarantee of 80 per cent means that Iveco will replace or refurbish the battery if it drops below 80 per cent of its as-new range performance in that warranty period. That warranty stands, regardless of how often the 80kW DC rapid charging may be used.

Servicing is also only every two years and 30,000 miles, and towing capacity is an impressive 3.5 tonnes  all of which is critica lto commercial vehicle users.

Will battery swaps make it into passenger cars?

That really depends on who you ask. Nio, of course, would argue that its the best solution.

Iveco has no plans to offer its battery tech to third parties any time soon. Mike Cutts, business line director at Iveco, said that the system is unique to us. Weve developed it in-house  not just for electric but also for adaption to hydrogen in future. There are no plans that Im aware of to sell our technology to third parties.

However, if Tesla is to be believed, battery swapping doesnt make sense  not even for commercial and heavy-goods vehicles, such as the Cybertruck and Semi. In 2021, having trialled battery swapping previously, the American company stated that electric vehicle charging is the best way to power its vehicles, and that battery swapping is riddled with problems and not suitable for wide scale use.

Battery swap  a good idea for commercial use

Arguably its in commercial applications that roadside battery swapping makes most sense, as the batteries in lorries or large vans often need to be bigger than in passenger vehicles, and the mileage covered is often very high. Hence, the time and frequency of the vehicles charging needs can be prohibitive  and can impact business operations. For this reason, despite Nios apparent success in China with battery swap tech in passenger EVs, its more likely that it will be commercial vehicles that will see the greatest demand when it comes to battery swap technology.

Driving the Iveco eDaily

Electric propulsion makes a lot of sense for vans in terms of the way they drive. More low-down torque and better refinement make it a far more enjoyable experience than the traditional diesel.

Which is all very obvious as I set off in a rear-wheel drive, 3.3-tonne 35S14EV Iveco eDaily panel van, complete with two 37kWh battery cells on board, for a 70kWh (usable) total battery capacity, and a WLTP electric range of 146 miles. Complete with air suspension, its a floaty, comfy thing to drive, with lots of body movement but not in a vomit-inducing way; its more than well-controlled enough to avoid that.

The eDaily is comfortable, far quieter than a diesel equivalent and generally incredibly easy to drive - NIGEL SPREADBURY

You can select various different regenerative braking modes including Sailing mode, which allows the vehicle to freewheel, or theres a default mid-level mode, and a heavy one-pedal mode thats well suited for around town  as is the brilliant turning circle. Wind on full lock and the van virtually turns on its own axis.

Ultimately, the way it drives is one of the real selling points for the eDaily. Its comfortable, far quieter than a diesel equivalent, and generally incredibly easy to drive.

Will all vans have swappable batteries?

Not any time soon, no. The modular battery technology certainly makes the Iveco eDaily one of the best electric vans, and its an impressive piece of tech of which this very innovative company should be rightfully proud.

But even tax incentives and ongoing plug-in van grants in the UK wont be enough to justify the Ivecos pricing (from about 56,000 up to more than 100,000 for the biggest, long-range vehicles) especially for small companies that may also face high costs for installing charge points. It is bigger companies with large fleets covering varied uses that will likely see the benefits from the eDailys flexible battery options  and that will be more likely to be able to support the fleets charging needs, and to see enough benefits in the running costs to justify the initial outlay.

At this point, battery swap tech for passenger vehicles seems extremely unlikely, but for vans it could well become a more popular option. But, even more so in this context than in that of passenger cars, it feels like lighter and more affordable batteries are needed to make battery swap truly effective and justifiable in the mainstream.

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Behind the Gun is the culmination of nine months of reporting by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's John Diedrich, examining the nuances of gun ownership and gun deaths in Wisconsin.

Gun deaths have doubled in Wisconsin since 2004, a trend being driven by suicides, especially in the rural parts of the state, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has found.

Over the course of a year, the Journal Sentinel examined the full extent of gun deaths in Wisconsin. It conducted a first-of-its-kind effort to obtain gun death data from every county, talked to dozens of gun owners about their experiences with firearms, and conducted the most in-depth survey of gun owners in Wisconsin to date.

The team, led by reporter John Diedrich, found that Milwaukee County does not have the highest gun death rate in the state when suicides are included. The project also highlighted efforts among gun owners to reduce suicides, for instance, a grassroots program by gun stores to temporarily hold firearms for people during a crisis.

And the poll of Wisconsin gun owners found that more are getting guns for self-defense and that a majority of them keep their firearms locked.

Explore the stories here:

Diedrich did the project through the OBrien Fellowship in Public Service Journalism at Marquette University. He was assisted 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.

Project credits

Contributing reporter: 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

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Behind the Gun: Read the project about firearms deaths in Wisconsin
The U.S. Marshals and FBI are offering up to a $15,000 reward for information regarding a Harvey, Illinois man charged with killing his Gary girlfriend near their five young kids.

Samuel Carlos Edwards, 37, was charged Jan. 13 with murder in the Dec. 27, 2022 death of Ieisha Jefferson, 31, of Gary.

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Detective William Poe of the Lake County Metro Homicide Unit wrote that Gary Police responded early on Dec. 27 to the 3800 block of Adams Street where they found a woman fatally shot in the head lying against a sofa, an affidavit states.

A Gary Police officer found the door unlocked with five children aged 6 and under inside. Edwards handed the children Jeffersons phone, herded them into a bedroom and closed the door, according to the affidavit. The child heard arguing before a gunshot.

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Jefferson had her right arm over her face, as if trying to defend herself. Three live, .38-caliber bullets were found nearby. Lake County Forensic Pathologist Dr. Zhuo Wang concluded she died from a single gunshot wound to the head.

A man named Carlos  possibly Edwards  called 911 asking for paramedics. His voice was emotional or upset.

He wasnt even there and didnt know what happened, adding he heard some shots. The dispatch asked again what happened and if he needed paramedics. The call went silent for 8 seconds then the caller hung up.

Detectives subpoenaed the cellphone of the 911 caller, which pinged at the Adams Street address at the time of the shooting. A witness told investigators Edwards and Jefferson had dated on-and-off for six years with five children. They moved to Gary the year before. He was very abusive.

Before her death, Jefferson planned to leave Edwards and move to Mattoon, Illinois.

Edwards is Black with a medium complexion, short hair and a thick beard. He is 510' and weighs 230 pounds. He has moles near both eyes and between them. He could be in Harvey, Chicago, or Northwest Indiana.

Anyone with information can call the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-926-8332 or message the agencys tip app. They can also call the FBI at 1-800-225-05324.

mcolias@post-trib.com
Dwarfed in scale, Mark Peller stood at the base of United Launch Alliance's new red-and-white Vulcan rocket, which towered far above his head like a 20-story cylindrical monolith.

"You look back here, that's the base of the rocket. And there's the nozzles for the solid rocket motor, the one closest to us. Beyond that, you'll see our two booster engines, the BE-4s. And beyond that is the other solid rocket burner," pointed out Peller, who is ULA's vice president of Vulcan development.

"So this is the complete rocket, less the payload," Peller said.

Engineered to be bigger, more powerful and cheaper to build and fly, the next-generation Vulcan will replace ULAs aging Atlas V rocket and soon-to-be-retired Delta IV Heavy rocket. Coupled with a Centaur upper stage, Peller said the Vulcan can accommodate a variety of missions and customers  the rocket can be outfitted with up to six solid rocket boosters for extra liftoff thrust.

Mark Peller, United Launch Alliance vice president of Vulcan development, talks alongside the new rocket Tuesday afternoon at his company's Vertical Integration Facility at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

The Vulcan's historic inaugural test flight mission is scheduled for launch at 1:49 a.m. EST on Christmas Eve. Similar late-night backup attempts are available on Christmas and Dec. 26, should delays arise.

ULA invited FLORIDA TODAY for an exclusive look at the rocket Tuesday afternoon at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The Vulcan stood nestled within the company's towering Vertical Integration Facility, a 286-foot-tall industrial-looking rectangular structure surrounded by silent scrub and swamplands near the northern terminus of Titan III Road.

Railroad tracks lead from the VIF another -mile northward to Launch Complex 41, which crews spent years retrofitting from an Atlas V-centric facility to accommodate the larger Vulcan. This morning, working in tandem, a pair of yellow Trackmobile heavy-duty railcar movers slowly wheeled the new rocket atop its custom-built launch platform to Complex 41.

Thursday, Peller said ULA crews will test the new rocket during an important "wet dress rehearsal," where engineers will proceed through the launch countdown until seconds before liftoff. Peller described this rehearsal as "an all-day affair." Technicians will later attach the 51-foot-tall nose cone.

#VulcanRocket is on the move today in our #CountdowntoVulcan! The #Cert1 rocket is traveling from the Vertical Integration Facility to Space Launch Complex-41 to begin Wet Dress Rehearsal activities that include a practice countdown and fueling exercise. https://t.co/xFQoT00BSt pic.twitter.com/4qBjxx3NKu  ULA (@ulalaunch) December 6, 2023

After liftoff and stage separation, the rocket's Centaur upper stage will carry Astrobotic's Peregrine commercial moon lander into a highly elliptical orbit more than 220,000 miles above Earth.

Selected by NASA to collect research before astronauts return to the lunar surface, the autonomous Peregrine lander is expected to touch down and operate on the moon for about 10 days until the sun sets  and temperatures plummet from roughly 100 degrees Celsius down to liquid-nitrogen cold, Astrobotic CEO John Thornton said. (Each lunar day on the slowly rotating moon lasts 29 Earth days, NASA reports.)

The vehicle has a new name, but much of the vehicle is actually the Atlas V. So its a well-proven vehicle in that sense," Thornton said of Vulcan during a Nov. 29 NASA teleconference.

"Yes, this ones got some new engines and other pieces to it. We are very confident on that launch. But I can tell you, Ill be at the edge of my seat on that launch," Thornton said.

Vulcan backlog of 70+ future launches

In July, the United Launch Alliance Vulcan Certification-1 rocket sits atop Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station ahead of flight readiness testing in preparation for the inaugural flight.

During a Nov. 15 media roundtable, ULA President and CEO Tory Bruno said ULA has already racked up a backlog of 70-plus future Vulcan launches that climbs into the billions of dollars.

By the end of 2025, Bruno said he hopes his company is launching two Vulcans per month.

Vulcan has been actually one of the more orderly and well-executed development programs that Ive worked on in my very long career in the aerospace industry, he said.

More: ULA targets Christmas Eve for inaugural launch of Vulcan Centaur rocket from Cape Canaveral

Don Platt, director of the Florida Institute of Technology's Spaceport Graduate Center in Titusville, considers the Vulcan "very important for the future of ULA, from the perspective of lowering the costs."

It's going to try to compete more successfully with SpaceX, from a ULA perspective. The Atlas V has been highly reliable, but of course its much more expensive than a SpaceX launch. And so, we've seen a huge increase in the number of customers  both from the government perspective and commercial  using SpaceX, Platt said.

On that note, Platt said the Vulcan program will provide America additional launch capability for the future beyond SpaceX, in addition to employing workers on the Space Coast.

"I don't think the government or anyone in the U.S. wants to rely totally on just one company for access to space. I think we definitely don't want to get into that situation. So it's very important from multiple perspectives," Platt said.

Vulcan 'wet dress rehearsal' set for Thursday

ULA's inaugural Vulcan rocket sits atop Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station ahead of its June engine firing test.

The Vulcan's debut launch date was postponed after a Centaur upper stage exploded in March during testing at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama. A hydrogen leak created a crack in the Centaur's 18-foot diameter tank, an investigation revealed.

In June, the Vulcan rocket roared to life on its Cape Canaveral launch pad for the first time during a "flight readiness firing." Crews ignited the rocket's twin Blue Origin-built BE-4 engines for roughly six seconds while powerful restraining mechanisms held the rocket in place. Each engine produces 550,000 pounds of thrust at sea level.

More: ULA, Aerojet Rocketdyne mark 60-year partnership while prepping for Vulcan Centaur launch

Next, Peller said the Vulcan's "wet dress rehearsal"  a key pre-launch exercise  will take place Thursday on the launch pad to validate the rocket's readiness.

"We do everything we do on day of launch, except start the engines and launch the rocket," Peller said.

"We power up the vehicle. We check it out. We load all the propellants on both stages. Then we do all the final checks of the flight control systems, the propulsion systems, and make sure they're ready for launch. And then we actually do the final countdown," he said, noting that crews will "hold" just before reaching T-0.

"So it's a final validation of the readiness of the rocket to launch. Giving us confidence that when we do go on the 24th in that instantaneous window, we don't have any hiccups that would cause us to miss that small opportunity," he said.

ULA 'extremely excited' for launch

United Launch Alliances new Vulcan rocket stands prepared for launch Tuesday afternoon inside the company's Vertical Integration Facility at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

Vulcans first mission is nicknamed Cert-1. It will serve as the first of two test flights for certification to carry future Space Force national security payloads. Peller said the second certification mission should launch late in the first quarter of 2024.

"That whole engagement with the Space Force started years ago when we first started to develop Vulcan. So they've been kind of embedded in our engineering team, kind of looking over our shoulder as we go through this whole process," he said.

Peller said it is unheard of for "a brand-new rocket before it's flown" to rack up a backlog of 70-plus upcoming missions, citing ULA's previous track record.

"This is the culmination of many, many years of work by the entire ULA team, as well as a whole team of industry partners. So it's extremely exciting for all of us here to be on the verge of launch  to be on the verge of ushering in this new era for ULA and for space launch," Peller said, standing next to the Vulcan.

"A lot of hard work by thousands of people across this country. In particular, a lot of hard work by people down here on the Space Coast getting the rocket ready, getting all the facilities ready to support this initial launch," he said.

Wednesday morning, two yellow Trackmobile railcar movers transport United Launch Alliance's new Vulcan rocket from the Vertical Integration Facility to Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

Rick Neale is a Space Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY (for more of his stories, click here.) Contact Neale at 321-242-3638 or rneale@floridatoday.com. Twitter/X: @RickNeale1

Space is important to us and that's why we're working to bring you top coverage of the industry and Florida launches. Journalism like this takes time and resources. Please support it with a subscription here.

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: ULA readying Vulcan rocket for historic Christmas Eve inaugural launch
Bellingham Police arrested a man after he allegedly stole a vehicle and led authorities on a high-speed chase.

The vehicle was reported stolen in King County and was located by a Bellingham police officer heading northbound on Meridian Street at 11:16 p.m. Monday, Dec. 4. Police attempted to stop the vehicle, a 2004 Dodge Caravan, but the driver sped off and the officer lost sight, according to Megan Peters with the Bellingham Police Department.

The vehicle was later seen near Mount Baker Highway and Everson Coshen Road, where police pulled it over after the driver headed the wrong way in traffic.

Jorge Antonio Lemus, 31, was arrested for attempting to elude a police vehicle and theft of a motor vehicle.
A new definitive look at one of the VAMPIRE counter-drone systems delivered to Ukraine has emerged.

What appears to be the first definitive picture of a U.S.-supplied VAMPIRE counter-drone system for Ukraine has emerged. The last of a batch of 14 of these systems, which use laser-guided 70mm rockets as effectors and are now known to be mounted on Humvees, are set to be delivered to the Ukrainian military before the end of the year. Lower-quality imagery has previously been seen of Humvees armed with 70mm laser-guided rockets engaging targets on the ground.

The U.S. Navy's Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) released a picture , seen at the top of this story, of one of the Humvee-mounted VAMPIREs being loaded onto a U.S. Air Force C-17A Globemaster III cargo aircraft earlier today. The picture was taken in September at an unspecified location.

NAVAIR's Direct and Time Sensitive Strike program office, or PMA-242, has been managing the delivery of the VAMPIRE systems to Ukraine. The Pentagon first announced that it would buy examples of VAMPIRE (an acronym that stands for Vehicle-Agnostic Modular Palletized ISR Rocket Equipment) on Ukraine's behalf using Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) funding back in August 2022 . A total of 14 of these systems were subsequently purchased for Ukraine.

https://vimeo.com/709476110

"We delivered the first four systems in only six months by leveraging an innovative contracting strategy and working diligently to keep pace with the systems rapid development," Navy Cmdr. Kevin Raspet, the Foreign Military Sales deputy program manager within PMA-242, said in a statement today. The Navy says it expects the last of these systems to arrive in Ukraine by the end of this month.

The Pentagon previously confirmed that VAMPIRE was in operational use in Ukraine in August.

The complete VAMPIRE system, for which L3Harris is the prime contractor, consists of three main components. These are a turreted four-round LAND-LGR4 70mm launcher loaded with laser-guided Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) rockets, a sensor turret (typically seen in the marketing literature mounted on an extendable mast to give it a better line-of-sight), and a fire control system. VAMPIRE is also designed to be readily integrated onto any suitably sized vehicle. You can read more about the core system in this past War Zone story .

A pickup truck with the VAMPIRE system installed. L3Harris

The picture that NAVAIR has now released shows that Ukraine's VAMPIREs are integrated onto M1152A1 Humvees. The M1152A1 is a two-door up-armored Humvee type with a pickup truck-style rear end. The turreted LAND-LGR4 launcher is installed on the rear bed.

The system's sensor turret looks to be mounted on top of the cab. It is seen underneath a camouflage cover in the picture and it is unclear whether or not it is installed on a mast of some kind.

A close-up of the VAMPIRE-equipped Humvee for Ukraine showing what appears to be the sensor turret under a camouflage cover, at left, and the launcher assembly, at right. USN

While we can't see the fire control system in the picture from NAVAIR, L3Harris' marketing literature has shown that it is small enough to be installed inside a typical truck cab.

Pictures showing elements of the VAMPIRE fire control system as installed inside the cab of a pickup truck. L3Harris

There are also distinct differences between the known VAMPIRE-equipped Humvee we now have a picture of and those of M1152A1s armed with LAND-LGR4s that have been seen in service in Ukraine previously. Most notably, the latter vehicles did not appear to have a sensor turret of any kind installed. The mounts used to attach the LAND-LGR4 launchers to the earlier vehicles were also distinctly different from the type associated with the VAMPIRE system.

A side-by-side comparison of a LAND-LGR4 launcher seen on a Humvee in Ukraine earlier this year, at left, and the one on the known VAMPIRE-equipped M1152A1, at right. There are various distinct differences, especially in the design of the cradle that holds the launcher and is attached to the turreted pedestal. capture via X / USN

At the same time, NAVAIR's statement that it was able to deliver four VAMPIREs within six months of the project starting, at least on its end, raises the possibility that Ukraine may have received multiple variations of the system. The LAND-LGR4-armed vehicles seen in use in Ukraine earlier this year were also observed being used to attack targets on the ground . However, VAMPIRE has a latent ground attack capability on top of its primary surface-to-air functionality.

https://twitter.com/anno1540/status/1655469455013560320?s=20

"Early reports indicate the weapon system is having an immediate impact in the ongoing Ukrainian wartime effort," Navy Capt. Alex Dutko, PMA-242 program manager, said in a statement about the VAMPIRES delivered to date. "This activity is another example of our team responding to urgent requirements with unprecedented speed and agility."

Even before the first VAMPIREs arrived in Ukraine, APKWS II rockets had demonstrated their capability to engage certain types of drones and cruise missiles when launched from ground-based platforms, as well as aircraft.

For the Ukrainian armed forces, VAMPIRE offers an important additional counter-drone tool. Russian forces make regular use of Iranian-designed kamikaze drones for strikes against targets deep inside Ukraine . This has only become more pronounced as Russia's stocks of long-range ballistic and cruise missiles have dwindled.

https://twitter.com/ukraine_map/status/1728396244765036707

In addition, Russian forces have been making major use of domestically developed kamikaze drones closer to the front lines, including against Ukrainian aircraft parked at air bases, air defense assets , and other high-value targets.

https://twitter.com/Archer83Able/status/1704169986254614535?s=20 https://twitter.com/UAWeapons/status/1683139938743644162

At the same time, many of Ukraine's drone-hunting teams are equipped with a hodgepodge of older, if not thoroughly obsolete weapons . They also rely on a variety of improvised equipment, including high-power laser pointers and hand-held spotlights , to try to spot and track incoming threats, often at night. VAMPIRE offers a far more precise means of engaging enemy drones together with a very capable targeting system that works after dark and during the day.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4XSGAMbn50Q\u0026t=162s

Ukrainian forces do use higher-end air defense assets to knock down incoming drones, but those systems are also in great demand to protect against higher-tier threats . Altogether, it is not surprising to hear from the Navy that units in Ukraine have been making good use of VAMPIRE.

As already noted, Ukrainian forces have shown the value of Humvees with LAND-LGR4 launchers as a means to engage targets on the ground, as well.

VAMPIRE use in Ukraine also provides additional validation of the general concept of using APKWS II rockets against aerial threats. The U.S. military is also working to acquire ground-based air systems that utilize APKWS II and the LAND-LGR4 launcher. This includes a containerized system that the U.S. Army has been evaluating and that you can read more about here .

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLll6LZL0TQ

The U.S. Air Force has also been exploring the use of APKWS II rockets as a lower-cost option for combat jets to use to engage cruise missiles and drones.

The U.S. military, and other armed forces around the world , are becoming more and more concerned about threats posed by cruise missiles and drones . Weaponized commercial drones have become a particular danger on and off conventional battlefields , and the barrier to entry to employing them is low.

Separate from the effort to get the VAMPIRE systems to Ukraine, NAVAIR's PMA-242 has been working with defense contractor BAE Systems on a new proximity-fuze warhead for use with APKWS II that is optimized primarily for use against lower-tier drones. One of the key benefits of the APKWS II design, overall, is the ability for the laser guidance package to be readily combined with any one of a variety of standardized warheads and then be attached to a standard 70mm rocket motor.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpAvvj0pLc4\u0026t=35s

The Navy expects the first examples of the counter-drone proximity warhead, which includes a radiofrequency sensor and also has the ability to engage targets in a point-detonating mode, to be available to U.S. forces soon.

When it comes to VAMPIRE, if nothing else, we have now gotten a conclusive look at one of these valuable systems as they have been provided to Ukraine.

Contact the author: joe@thedrive.com
The Department of Education said Wednesday that it has approved the cancellation of nearly $5 billion more in federal student loan debt, bringing the total amount of student debt relief provided under the Biden administration to $132 billion for more than 3.6 million borrowers.

Though the Supreme Court struck down President Joe Bidens signature student loan forgiveness program, which promised up to $20,000 in debt relief for low- and middle-income borrowers, the administration has continued to find other ways to provide debt relief.

We are continuing to pursue an alternative path to deliver student debt relief to as many borrowers as possible as quickly as possible, Biden said in a statement Wednesday.

The cancellations have come through existing federal student loan forgiveness programs, which are limited to specific categories of borrowers, such as public-sector workers, people defrauded by for-profit colleges and borrowers who have paid for at least 20 years.

Those borrowers who are eligible for relief under Wednesdays announcement qualify in one of two ways: either under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, which wipes away remaining student loan debt after qualifying public-sector workers make 10 years worth of monthly payments; or because they have made at least 20 years of qualifying payments in an income-driven repayment program but didnt previously get credit for all of their student loan payments.

Most of these borrowers were notified in November that their outstanding federal student loan debt would be canceled and they can expect to see the changes made to their accounts in the coming weeks.

The Biden administration has been granting student loan forgiveness through these existing programs on a rolling basis since coming into office. To date, it has granted more student loan forgiveness than any other administration  in part due to efforts to temporarily expand some debt relief programs and to correct past administrative errors made to borrowers student loan accounts.

The latest discharges are a result of this administrations relentless efforts to fix our countrys broken student loan system and get hard-earned debt relief into the hands of eligible borrowers, Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said on a call with reporters.

Recounting past payments and fixing errors

Many borrowers are seeing debt relief thanks to a one-time recount of their past payments, an effort undertaken by the Biden administration to fix what officials have called past administrative failures.

Borrowers enrolled in income-driven repayment plans, which have been available in some form since 1993, are generally eligible for debt discharges after making qualifying payments for at least 20 years. The plans lower monthly payments by tying them to a borrowers income and family size.

But the Department of Education has historically had trouble tracking borrowers payments.

Last year, the US Government Accountability Office recommended that the department do more to ensure that borrowers receive the forgiveness they are entitled to, after it found that there were thousands of loans still in repayment that could already be eligible for forgiveness.

The one-time account adjustment effort was first announced by the Biden administration in April 2022 and the cancellations did not begin until this year. The department is expected to announce additional batches of borrowers eligible for student debt relief every other month through the spring of next year.

Some Republican lawmakers and conservative groups have argued that the administration does not have the power to recount payments. The Department of Education is facing at least one lawsuit over the account adjustments, filed by the New Civil Liberties Alliance on behalf of the conservative groups Cato Institute and the Mackinac Center for Public Policy.

Payments resumed in October

Borrowers were required to restart making their federal student loan payments in October for the first time in three-plus years after the pandemic-related pause, which essentially froze borrowers accounts, came to an end.

In addition to canceling some student loan debt, the Biden administration has also made efforts to lower borrowers monthly bills as payments resume.

A new repayment plan launched this summer, called SAVE (Saving on a Valuable Education), offers the most generous terms and will likely offer the smallest monthly payment for lower-income borrowers.

The Department of Education is also providing a 12-month on-ramp period through September 2024. During this temporary reprieve, borrowers struggling to make their monthly payments are shielded from some of the worst consequences of making a payment, including negative credit reporting. But some Democratic lawmakers have recently raised concerns that borrowers could see implementation errors during the on-ramp period.

The Biden administration is making another attempt to create a one-time student loan forgiveness program. This time, the administration is relying on a different law than it did for the program struck down by the Supreme Court and is conducting a formal rulemaking process, known as negotiated rulemaking. The process takes months and a proposed rule isnt expected to be released until next year. It could then face legal challenges.

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President Biden on Wednesday said that talk of any interaction with his son and brothers foreign business associates are lies, pushing back on the notion as House Republicans plan a vote to formalize the impeachment inquiry.

When asked by a reporter why he interacted with so many of his son and brothers foreign business associates, the president replied, Im not going to comment on that. I did not and its just a bunch of lies.

The reporter pressed, asking if he didnt interact with these associates.

I did not, theres lies, Biden said.

Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) is planning a vote for next week on the inquiry after months of congressional investigations attempting to paint Biden as corrupt.

Throughout the investigations, led by Oversight Committee Chair Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.), House Republicans have alleged that Biden and his family accepted money from foreign interests in what they deemed as suspicious financial deals.

The inquiry has been multipronged, including probing the foreign business activities of Bidens son Hunter Biden and other family members like his brother, James Biden.

The inquiry has also involved disputed and shaky allegations that Biden as vice president used policy pressure to benefit Ukrainian energy company Burisma and whether the Department of Justice improperly slow-walked a tax crimes investigation into Hunter Biden.

The White House, meanwhile, has been stepping up its criticism of the inquiry, making a concerted effort recently to tie the GOP conference to its more far-right members and put moderate Republicans in a political dilemma.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Joe Biden has said he is not certain he would be seeking a second term if Donald Trump was also not personally in the race for the White House.

In comments that will be seized on by those who worry about both Mr Bidens age and loose tongue, the 81-year-old offered a candid assessment to donors near Boston.

If Trump wasnt running, Im not sure Id be running, he said on Tuesday. We cannot let him win.

While Mr Biden has long insisted he is the best equipped in the Democratic Party to take on Mr Trump in a widely expected re-do of their 2020 showdown, polls suggest he faces a very tough fight.

Polling for both the Daily Telegraph and The New York Times indicates he has lost support of key elements of the coalition that delivered a victory in 2020.

In particular, it shows in several battleground, states including Georgia and Michigan, Mr Trump was ahead of Mr Biden. It also shows the president is losing support among key groups of voters, especially the young.

A recent poll by Morning Consult scored a showdown 43-43. While neither party has officially selected a candidate, polls suggest a rematch between the pair to be very likely.

While voters repeatedly tell pollsters they believe Mr Biden is too old, they do not say the same about Mr Trump, even though he is aged 77.

They also point out that despite Mr Bidens claim the economy is turning around in the aftermath of the pandemic, too many voters feel worse off and uncertain.

The conflict in Israel with Hamas, where the US has strongly backed Benjamin Netanyahu, has caused Mr Biden to lose more support among Arab and Muslim Americans, as well as younger voters.

This drop off has increased as the number of civilians killed in Gaza - currently around 15,000 - has risen.

Mr Biden travelled to Massachusetts as part of a fundraising drive, and headlined three events in the Boston area. He started his remarks by defending his support for Israel, and laying out the danger to democracy that would be represented by another term for Mr Trump.

Ive been a strong, strong supporter of Israel from the time I entered the United States Senate in 1973, he said.

When this last event occurred...I immediately got on a plane and went over to Israel and meet with Bibi [Netanyahu] and meet with his cabinet.

He added: We have to figure what after Gaza. What after Gaza.

Mr Biden said he would continue working to get all hostages out and touted that he was able to convince the Israelis that we have to allow significantly more aid into Gaza.

Of the pause in fighting Mr Biden said, We have to get it back on track.

Ive been working with a number of people in and out of government to figure what after, what after Gaza. And I think the only available solution is a two-state solution.

Turning to Mr Trump, he said the former president had been spelling out that a second term would focus on policies even more extreme then in his first, and an administration removed of any guardrails.

[Hes] telling us what hes going to do. Hes making no bones about it, he said.

Trumps not even hiding the ball anymore. Hes telling us what hes going to do. Hes making no bones about it.

Referring to the 77-year-old as a defeated former president, Mr Biden said: He didnt show up at my inauguration, which I cant say was a disappointment.

He added: My guess is he wont show up at my next inauguration, he added, to applause from the audience.

Mr Biden said hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas broke down last week, because of the militants, and called for loud condemnation of what he called the sexual violence of Hamas terrorists.

Let me be crystal clear: Hamas refusal to release the remaining young women is what broke this deal and end the pause in the fighting. Everyone still being held hostage by Hamas need to be returned to their families immediately. Were not going to stop, he said.

Later this week, Mr Biden is to travel to Los Angeles for a pair of Hollywood fundraisers, featuring Steven Spielberg, Shonda Rhimes and Rob Reiner.

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Climate and tech advocacy groups are pressing the Biden administration to address concerns about the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on climate change.

In a Wednesday letter to President Biden, the groups highlighted two main concerns: how generative AI tools may amplify the spread of false information about climate change, and how the enormous energy requirements and widespread use of large language models can increase carbon emissions.

Our concerns about AI focus on its potential use to spread climate disinformation, and its vastly expanding energy use, both of which require basic transparency rules that are not included in the [executive order], the groups wrote, referring to a wide-ranging executive order Biden signed on artificial intelligence in October.

The order included new standards for safety and directs federal agencies to accelerate the development of techniques in order to allow AI systems to be trained while preserving privacy of the data theyre trained on.

The advocates wrote they were disappointed that AIs potential to worsen the climate change crisis was not addressed as a risk associated with widespread use of AI in the executive order.

Unfounded hype from Silicon Valley says that AI can save the planet sometime in the future but research shows the opposite is actually occurring right now, the groups wrote.

The letter also comes as Vice President Harris joined world leaders in Dubai for COP28, the United Nations Climate Change Conference.

The recent EO from the Biden-Harris Administration directs the Secretary of Energy, National Climate Advisor, and others to work in collaboration with the private sector and members of academia to support development of AI tools to mitigate climate change risks. We request that this same task force consider how to ensure the AI boom does not contribute to the climate change crisis, they wrote.

The letter was signed by 17 groups, including Friends of the Earth, Accountable Tech and the Center for Countering Digital Hate.

It was addressed to Biden, Harris, Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, Office of Science and Technology Policy Director Arati Prabhakar, Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Director Anton Porter and national climate adviser Ali Zaidi.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
President Biden will make a public statement Wednesday urging Congress to authorize supplemental national security funding. The package would include funding for Ukraines defense against Russia.

That war has reached a critical moment, with hoped-for major gains on the ground elusive as winter begins.

On Tuesday, the Senate faced an impasse on Ukraine. Democrats and Republicans expressed frustration at a closed intelligence briefing over the GOPs intent to link border security with further foreign military aid.

The president is expected to speak at noon EST.

Watch the live video above.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The 50th edition of the Sofia International Book Fair kicked off at the National Palace of Culture in Sofia on Tuesday with a rich selection of Chinese books on display.

Some 300 Chinese books are exhibited at the booth of CBT China Book Trading GmbH, a subsidiary of China International Communications Group.

Bao Jianguo, business director at CBT, told Xinhua that the company is participating in the six-day event for the first time this year, which involved more than 170 publishers.

China and Bulgaria have had a good relationship for a long time, and it is important for the peoples of both countries to understand each other, Bao said.

"We would like to take this opportunity to enhance the communication and cultural exchanges between the two countries, and hope to build connections for future cooperation," he said.

Chinese books translated into Bulgarian are also on display at the booth of Bulgarian publishing house Iztok-Zapad (East-West). Among them are classics, such as Cao Xueqin's "Dream of the Red Chamber" and "The Book of Songs: The Ancient Chinese Classic of Poetry," as well as "Illustrated Myths and Legends of China" and "An Illustrated Brief History of China: Culture, Religion, Art, Invention" along with Chinese language textbooks for Bulgarians.

Luben Kozarev, Iztok-Zapad's founder and president, told Xinhua that his company presents nearly 30 Chinese titles at the event. Since 2003, his company has published almost 100 Chinese books in Bulgarian.

According to Kozarev, Bulgarians are interested in Chinese literature. "There is great interest in everything related to China," he said.

This interest is driven by several factors, such as the changing world situation as China has become "an increasingly prominent global leader," Kozarev said. "People are interested in Chinese culture, Chinese language," he said.

Gabriela Nikolova, a student at Sofia University, was the first visitor to stop and leaf through books at the CBT booth together with her friends right after the fair opened on Tuesday morning.

She said she knew that China has a rich culture. "When I have more time, I would delve more into Chinese culture and literature," she said.
2024 Democratic presidential candidates Marianne Williamson, Rep. Dean Phillips (D-Minn.) and Cenk Uygur will appear together on the progressive news network The Young Turks (TYT) on Wednesday night in response to the fourth GOP debate taking place in Tuscaloosa, Ala.

The network, which has more than 5.6 million YouTube subscribers, said it would give the three candidates a platform to speak about their agenda, policy positions and respond to the GOP debate in this unique coverage format.

The program will start right after the GOP debate is scheduled to end, at 10 p.m. EST.

The event is scheduled to last for an hour and a half and will be hosted by TYT anchor John Iadarola, a left-wing pundit who cohosts both the networks main show and his own program, The Damage Report.

Upholding democracy is part of TYTs values, and this coverage format is in response to the Democratic establishment not doing anything to ensure that primary candidates are heard, the network wrote in a Tuesday press release. Instead, the party is promoting an unhealthy primary. TYT will take this opportunity to inform voters of their choices and give the megaphone to the primary candidates.

The Florida Democratic Party left all three candidates off its primary ballot. The state Democratic Partys executive committee voted Oct. 29 to only include Biden on the ballot, a move that prompted all three White House hopefuls to consider legally challenging the decision.

Cenk Uygur, TYTs founder and CEO, who is running in the Democratic primary, says the three candidates are on the same mission. Uygur, unlike Williamson and Phillips, has to battle for ballot access in various states due to his status as a naturalized citizen born in Istanbul, Turkey. Uygur, who previously gained ballot access in Arkansas, wont appear on its ballot next year, according to The Associated Press. He hopes to adjudicate the issue of his qualifications through the courts.

Find the best candidate to beat Donald Trump, Uygur told The Hill, when asked about the post-debate event. Since were all convinced that Joe Biden is almost certainly going to lose, were trying very hard to give people an alternative. The TYT event is a forum to highlight our differences with the Republicans. Were all motivated to make sure the Republican Party loses this election, and I wish Joe Biden would try anywhere near as hard as us.

The two-hour GOP debate, featuring former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, will air Wednesday at 8 p.m. EST on NewsNation. NewsNation anchor Elizabeth Vargas, The Washington Free Beacon Editor-in-Chief Eliana Johnson and former Fox News and NBC host Megyn Kelly will moderate.

Former President Trump, the current GOP primary front-runner who skipped the previous three debates, will instead attend a private fundraiser in Florida.

Phillips and Williamsons campaigns did not respond to The Hills request for comment.

Nexstar Media Group owns both NewsNation and The Hill.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
This photo taken on Feb. 17, 2023 shows robot arms working on the production line at a glass factory in Jiamusi, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

China is disappointed with ratings agency Moody's move to change the country's government credit rating outlook, as the Chinese economy has logged a continuous and steady recovery against the backdrop of weakening momentum of global economic recovery, a finance official said Tuesday.



In response to a media inquiry on Moody's change of the outlook to negative from stable, the official from the Ministry of Finance said Moody's concerns about China's growth prospects and fiscal sustainability are unwarranted.

This year marks the first year for China's economy to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The country has withstood risks and challenges from abroad and downward pressure brought about by multiple factors at home, seeing its gross domestic product up 5.2 percent year on year in the first three quarters, the official said.

Recent forecasts from multiple international institutions, including the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, all showed that China can achieve its growth target of around 5 percent this year, the official said.

The Chinese economy has great resilience and potential, and its long-term sound fundamentals remain unchanged, the official said, noting that the country will remain an important engine for global economic growth in the future.

China's vast domestic market has great demand potential, and the situation of employment and pricing is generally stable, said the official, adding that the economy's internal impetus will continuously increase as the country accelerates promoting high-quality development.
Gov. DeSantis announced he is targeting more than a dozen school board members in next years elections.

The organization in charge of Advanced Placement courses offered in high schools across the country on Wednesday released the final version of its new African American Studies course, notably leaving out some lessons Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Department of Education called out earlier this year for what they said was an effort to push an agenda on students.

A review of the 300-page course by the Miami Herald shows the College Board decided to exclude topics on the Black queer experience  a topic DeSantis has singled out in his criticism  and only include the Black Lives Matter movement and the reparations debate as optional, meaning they wont be required or included on the final AP exam.

The course does, however, include Black authors and scholars flagged as inappropriate by Florida education officials, such as Kimberle W. Crenshaw and Angela Davis. Ideas rejected by the DeSantis administration, such as intersectionality and race-related concepts, also remained in the curriculum.

The release of the final course curriculum sets up a potential encore of a clash between the governor, his education department and the College Board. In January, DeSantis announced the state would be rejecting the course over what he argued was the inclusion of topics the state says are foundational to critical race theory and an attempt to use Black history for political purposes.

The College Boards decisions  with its inclusions and exclusions  could leave the curriculum at odds with the governors education agenda. While the intent is to have as many states as possible adopt the new course, College Board officials said, DeSantis and the Florida Department of Education have shown a willingness to prohibit content that they deem to be liberal indoctrination in schools.

READ MORE: Black leaders blast College Boards changes to AP African American Studies course

The College Board maintains that none of Floridas criticisms impacted the organizations decision-making regarding the changes or what lesson plans would be included as optional. The College Board has had no communication with the Florida Department of Education regarding the framework update, officials said.

Instead, they argued, any changes were based on feedback from students and teachers involved in the pilot program and the higher education community.

Amid intense public debate over this course, College Board asked subject-matter experts in the AP program, scholars and experienced AP teachers to revisit the course (...) and determine the content required, a College Board news release said. The AP program consulted with professors from more than 200 colleges nationwide, including dozens of historically Black colleges and universities, along with dedicated high school teachers across the country.

Several Florida public schools had signed up to pilot the course in their school for the 2023-24 school year, but backed out before this school year after DeSantis criticized the course. Before the states feud with the College Board, a handful of public schools across the state temporarily piloted the course, including one in Miami-Dade.

This school year, just one school  a private school in Miami, Miami Country Day School  is offering the pilot in Florida.

The course is expected to officially launch nationally for the 2024-25 school year.

Whats in the final framework?

Despite being challenged by the DeSantis administration and state reviewers of the coursework, ideas such as intersectionality  a concept that refers to the way in which racism, sexism and classism can overlap and affect people  and the plight of African Americans throughout history are highlighted as essential knowledge for students, meaning they must demonstrate mastery of the topic for the exam.

In one unit, Freedom, Enslavement, and Resistance, the College Board considers it essential for students to know how slavery prevented Black people from building wealth and has led to present day wealth disparities along racial lines  a concept reviewers in Florida previously said could violate state laws and rules because it supposes that no slaves or their descendants accumulated any wealth.

The state Board of Education earlier this year approved new academic standards for instruction about African American history that include teachings about how enslaved people benefited from their bondage.

READ MORE: Teachers enraged that Floridas new Black history standards say slaves could benefit

Another unit, The Black Feminist Movement, Womanism, and Intersectionality, addresses the framework for understanding Black womens distinct experiences through the interactions of their social, economic, and political identities with systems of inequality and privilege.

Themes such as migration and the African diaspora; intersections of identity; creativity, expression and the arts; and resistance and resilience run throughout the course.

One of the biggest changes featured in the final work, however, is the Further explorations week, said College Board officials.

The section, which would be taught during the final week of lessons, includes a list of optional topics, such as the Black Lives Matter movement and the reparations debate. Incarceration and abolition, Black women writers and filmmakers, African American art and culinary traditions are other topics that can be taught.
Like at this point its getting ridiculous. Were talking about hair. Not inappropriate wording or images on his clothing. Hair. When can we just let the kid be?



On Tuesday, Texas high school student Darryl George was suspended (again) for 13 days after refusing to change his hairstyle which is out of compliance with his school districts dress code. Specifically, he was given in-school suspension.

Read more

He was first pulled from the classroom at the Houston-area school in August after school officials said his braided locs fell below his eyebrows and ear lobes and violated the districts dress code. His family argues the punishment violates the CROWN Act, which became law in Texas in September and is intended to prohibit race-based hair discrimination. The school says the CROWN Act does not address hair length.

The most insane part about this situation is that George was initially suspended the same week the CROWN ACT went into effect. Ironically, the passing of the law came from a situation at the same school in 2020, when a Black student was unable to go to school or attend his graduation unless he cut his locs.

In the time since hes been suspended, Georges family has filed a civil rights lawsuit against Texas Governor Gregg Abbott, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, and the school district claiming that they have failed to enforce the CROWN Act, which was meant to protect students like George.

In response, the school district has filed a suit in a district court to get clarification on whether their dress code violates the CROWN Act, according to NBC News.

The worst part about all this is that a student who simply wants to go to school is having it ruined by a dress code that prohibits having hair go past his ear lobe. This is despite claims from George that other boys in his school have longer hair than him, but have not been disciplined once.



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Darryl George, a Black high school student, was suspended again by his Texas school district over his hairstyle violating his schools dress code.

According to a disciplinary notice issued by Barbers Hill High School in Mont Belvieu, Texas, the 18-year-old high school student was handed down a 13-day suspension on Tuesday due to his braided hair being out of compliance when let down.

This was Georges first day back in school after spending a month at an off-site disciplinary program in relation to a previous suspension imposed by the school in August, according to the Associated Press.

While in class, he was told he was in violation of the school dress code policy for not cutting his hair and was again referred to in-school suspension, Georges family spokesperson Candice Matthews said in a statement to the New York Times.

George, who spent most of his junior year away from regular classes, was initially pulled out of the Houston-area high school in August. School officials complained that his braided hair fell below his eyebrows and ear lobes and violated the districts dress code, the AP reported.

We are just trying to take it day by day. Thats all we can do, Georges mother, Darresha George, told the AP. We do not see the light at the end of the tunnel. But we are not giving up.

Darresha George also told the Times that her son was placed in a cubicle away from his classroom when his first suspension was imposed, noting that his classwork was brought to him.

The George family has already filed a formal complaint against the states education agency and a federal civil rights lawsuit against the states governor, attorney general, and the Barbers Hill Independent School District (BHISD).

They allege that all parties failed to enforce the CROWN Act, a state new law that prohibits schools and companies from discriminating against hairstyles that are associated with a specific race or ethnicity.

In response, BHISD, which has previously dealt with criticism over its decision involving a students hairstyle, has filed its own lawsuit in a state district court, asking the judge to clarify if its dress code rules for boys hair violates the CROWN Act, according to the AP.

Matthews, the vice chair of the Texas Coalition of Black Democrats, also said that the family is working with state lawmakers to amend the state law so it can explicitly deal with the question of hair length, the Times reported.

The Hill has reached out to the BHISD for comment and more information.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Members of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and its allied militias in Sudan have committed crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has assessed.

Blinken also determined that members of the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces have committed war crimes, he said in a statement Wednesday.

The determination was made months after massive violence between the two armies in April. The assessment of the crimes was based on the State Departments careful analysis of the law and available facts.

The determination does not immediately bear any consequences for the members who have committed the crimes. Blinken noted that todays determination does not preclude the possibility of future determinations as additional information about the parties actions becomes available.

This determination provides force and renewed urgency to African and international efforts to end the violence, address the humanitarian and human rights crisis, and work towards meaningful justice for victims and the affected communities that ends decades of impunity, he said.

Civilians have borne the brunt of this needless conflict. Detainees have been abused and some killed at SAF and RSF detention sites. Across Sudan, the RSF and allied militias have terrorized women and girls through sexual violence, attacking them in their homes, kidnapping them from the streets, or targeting those trying to flee to safety across the border, Blinken said.

In haunting echoes of the genocide that began almost 20 years ago in Darfur, we have seen an explosion of targeted violence against some of the same survivors communities, he continued. Masalit civilians have been hunted down and left for dead in the streets, their homes set on fire, and told that there is no place in Sudan for them.

The top US diplomat called on the RSF and SAF to stop this conflict now, comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law, and hold accountable those responsible for atrocities.

They also must adhere to the commitments they made to allow unhindered humanitarian assistance and implement confidence building measures that can lead to a sustainable cessation of hostilities, he said. Arms and funding flowing to the warring parties only prolong a conflict that has no acceptable military solution.

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A man was found dead inside a big cat enclosure at a Pakistan zoo on Wednesday by staff carrying out routine cleaning, officials said. The body was found at Bahawalpur's Sherbagh Zoo in the eastern province of Punjab after staff spotted a shoe in the mouth of one of the big cats.

"When they cleaned the zoo and the dens, they found the (animal) holding a shoe in its mouth," Zaheer Anwar, a senior government official in Bahawalpur, told the media.

"The staff got suspicious and then they found a body inside the den," he said.

The official described the big cat using a word that in Pakistan can mean tiger or leopard, and both are believed to be housed inside the zoo.

"Our assessment so far is that this appears to be a lunatic, because a sensible person would not jump into the den," Anwar said. "You can see that the den is secured. There are stairs behind the den, maybe he jumped from there."

Anwar added that the zoo staff are accounted for.

Zafarullah, an official of the rescue service 1122 in Bahawalpur, told AFP that the victim's legs had been heavily mauled.

"It is yet not known who he is and how he got there. It is being investigated. The body looked several hours old," said Zafarullah, who goes by one name.

He said forensic experts were examining the body.

The zoo is run by Punjab's wildlife department, according to its website, and costs adults 18 cents to enter.

"Lions, tigers, and hyenas are housed in ... modern moated enclosures," the website says.

The department has not commented.

The man's death comes just days after a zoo keeper was mauled to death by a black bear in India. According to the Times of India, the incident at the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park happened after the staffer accidentally left the night house doors open while cleaning the enclosure.

In 2000, the remains of a missing teenage boy were found in the lion enclosure of a different zoo in Pakistan, the BBC reported.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A body was recovered from Johnson Creek on Tuesday after crews tried to rescue someone Monday morning during a major storm, authorities said.

The Multnomah County Sheriffs Office confirmed to KOIN 6 News on Wednesday that the agencys Dive Team recovered the body, and that the body has been transferred to the medical examiners office.

PHOTOS: Heavy rains, flood damage across the Pacific Northwest

The sheriffs office also said the Portland Police Bureau is the leading agency in the death investigation. No other details were immediately available.

On Monday, multiple first responder agencies, including Portland Fire & Rescue, reported a rescue effort at Johnson Creek near the Tacoma MAX station after someone was spotted being swept downstream on an outdoor furniture cushion in the water, which is high amid recent major rainfall from an atmospheric river.

You get eight pounds a gallon flowing at you, sweeping you up, its going to capture people and unfortunately thats what happened, Portland Fire & Rescue Lt. Rick Graves told KOIN 6 News on Monday.

Dogs responsible for killing 6-year-old in Northeast Portland euthanized, PPB says

The body recovered from Johnson Creek is the second body to be pulled from swollen creeks this week after deputies in Washington County recovered the body of a man from Bronson Creek on Tuesday.

The storm, which the National Weather Service reported stalled over the region on Wednesday morning, is continuing to cause river and urban flooding concerns in Oregon and Washington. Officials in Tillamook County are considering a disaster declaration after rains on Tuesday wiped out roads and left drivers stranded in flood waters; meanwhile, in Washington state, the U.S. Coast Guard assisted in rescuing five people stranded by raging flood waters.

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Landslides have also become an increased concern, with SR 503 shut down near Cougar after a slide and Amtrak Cascade services disrupted between Portland and Seattle after landslide debris covered the tracks.

The storm is expected to linger until later on Wednesday when skies are forecasted to start drying out.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
Idaho State Police is investigating a Wednesday morning crash that left a Boise man dead, according to a news release from the agency.

The 34-year-old man was traveling northbound on Madison Road around 7:30 a.m. when his 2000 Honda Accord veered to the right shoulder of the road and crashed into a canal, state police said. The driver died at the scene from his injuries.

The crash was north of Nampa, according to the release. Police said the crash blocked Madison Road for roughly three hours as emergency responders cleared the scene.
Gold demand is expected to increase in China as economic and geopolitical uncertainties may drive up purchases of safe-haven assets, experts said.

The expectation comes despite forecasts that gold prices may rise further on anticipated US rate cuts early next year, they added.

Spot gold crossed $2,100 per ounce to hit a record high in early Asian trade on Monday, though it dropped to $2,041 on Tuesday.

Benchmark COMEX gold futures surpassed $2,150 per ounce, touching a record high on Monday, but fell to $2,060 at its highest a day later.

"We believe intensifying expectations of major central banks ending their tightening cycle and starting to cut in the first half of 2024, as well as still heightened geopolitical tensions and strong central bank purchases, drove gold prices to a record high," said Roland Wang, CEO of the World Gold Council (China).

"Meanwhile, investors' positioning  inflows into major gold exchange-traded funds and surging COMEX gold futures net longs  was another key contributor," Wang added.

Everbright Securities said a slowdown in the US economic growth rate in 2024 is highly possible and anticipated a rate cut there as well as a weaker greenback next year, which could pave the way for an uptrend in gold prices and gold-related equities. It said gold prices are likely to continue to set records next year.

"In general, a higher gold price is usually discouraging for gold consumption, especially gold jewelry demand. However, as gold prices soared and various uncertainties impacted sentiment, we observed the trend of consumers purchasing gold jewelry products with an investment mindset  and these investments have paid off," Wang said.

"Investment-wise, we see different behaviors, especially gold exchange-traded funds. Chinese investors usually 'buy low and sell high' in the gold ETF market as it is dominated by retail investors. In the United States and Europe, where ETF investors are mostly institutional, they are trend followers," he said.

Wang predicted that robust demand for gold investment, as seen in the first three quarters, will continue.

According to a report released by the WGC on Tuesday, among 218 high net-worth investors whose investable assets exceeded 6 million yuan ($841,449), aged over 40 and with over two years of experience in investment, wealth preservation and security are the primary goals for investments, surpassing wealth appreciation.

About 90 percent of such investors have invested in gold or are willing to invest in the yellow metal, said the report.

"So far in 2023, the country's gold jewelry demand has offset declines in other regions, stabilizing the global gold jewelry demand," said Wang.

China has been the largest gold jewelry consumption market in the world since 2012. Over the past decade, China's gold jewelry demand accounted for 31 percent of the world's total, said the WGC.

"We believe opportunities abound in the future for China's gold market. Constant innovations in the gold jewelry industry have seen a wider variety of products offered to consumers. With young consumers' tastes rapidly changing, the increasing number of gold product choices will ensure gold's dominance in the retail jewelry market," Wang said.

According to the WGC, demand for gold bars and coins in China surged to 82 metric tons in the third quarter despite soaring gold prices, representing the strongest third-quarter performance since 2018.

In the first nine months, China's demand for gold bars and coins reached 197 tons, up 26 percent year-on-year.

China's total demand for gold jewelry reached 481 tons during the same period, up 8 percent year-on-year. The country's inflow of gold ETFs amounted to 8 tons, valued at around $500 million, according to the WGC.
Suella Braverman speaks to her party MPs in the Commons on Wednesday - Maria Unger/UK Parliament/Maria Unger/UK Parliament

Suella Braverman said the Tories face electoral oblivion if they fail to implement their Rwanda plan.

The former home secretary, making a resignation statement in the Commons, said Rishi Sunak would lead his party to a disastrous defeat if he introduced emergency legislation on Rwanda that is destined to fail.

She revealed that she had told the Prime Minister he should scrap the Bill and replace it with more robust legislation excluding asylum claims from international and human rights laws.

Mrs Braverman told MPs: It is now or never. The Conservative Party faces electoral oblivion in a matter of months if we introduce yet another Bill destined to fail.

Do we fight for sovereignty or let our party die? I refuse to sit by and allow the trust that millions of people have put in us be discarded like an inconvenient detail.

Mrs Braverman was sacked by Mr Sunak three weeks ago after she criticised the police for being too lenient with protesters who chanted in support of jihad in London.

Ministers are able to make a resignation statement in such circumstances, but the right is rarely taken up.

Geoffrey Howes statement in 1990 helped bring about the fall of Margaret Thatcher just a week later - but Ms Bravermans is not expected to have the same impact.

Resignation speech

In her speech, she said Britain was facing mass, uncontrolled, illegal immigration involving thousands of mostly young men, many with values and social mores at odds with our own.

The former home secretary questioned whether the government understood the unsustainable pressure placed on public finances and services, and the impact on community cohesion and national security.

She said Mr Sunak should be commended for dedicating more time and toil than any of his predecessors to this endeavour before outlining her expectations for emergency legislation to revive the Rwanda deportation scheme.

The legislation attempts to enable Parliament to deem Rwanda a safe destination and address the concerns that led the Supreme Court to rule Mr Sunaks asylum policy unlawful.

Mrs Braverman said: On Monday, the Prime Minister announced measures that start to better reflect public frustration on legal migration. He can now follow that up with a Bill that reflects public fury on illegal migration and actually stops the boats.

It is now or never. The Conservative Party faces electoral oblivion in a matter of months if we introduce yet another Bill destined to fail. Do we fight for sovereignty or do we let our party die?

I may not have always found the right words in the past, but I refuse to sit by and allow us to fail. The trust that millions of people placed in us cannot be discarded as an inconvenient detail.

If we summon the political courage to do what is truly necessary, difficult though it may be, to fight for the British people we will regain their trust. And, if the Prime Minister leads that fight, he has my total support.

Insane human rights laws

Mrs Braverman revealed she advised that the Illegal Migration Bill should be scrapped in favour of a more robust alternative.

As Home Secretary I consistently advocated for legislative measures that would have secured the delivery of our Rwanda partnership as soon as the Bill became law, she said.

Last summer, following defeat in the Court of Appeal, I advised that we should scrap rather than continue passage of the Illegal Migration Bill, in favour of a more robust alternative that excluded international and human rights laws.

When that was rejected, I argued that we needed to work up a credible Plan B in the event of a Supreme Court loss.

Following defeat in the Supreme Court, the Prime Minister has agreed to introduce emergency legislation. I welcomed his decision.

It is now three weeks on and we are yet to see a Bill. We are running out of time. We need to see the Bill now.

She said human rights laws were producing insanities that the public would scarcely believe.

Violent criminals free to wander our streets

Foreign terrorists we cant deport - because of their human rights. Terrorists that we have to let back in - because of their human rights. Foreign rapists and paedophiles who should have been removed but are released back into our communities where they reoffend - because of their human rights.

Violent criminals pulled off deportation flights - with the help of Labour MPs, I should add - free to wander our streets and commit further horrific crimes, including murder.

Protesters let off the hook for tearing down statues and gluing themselves to roads. And our brave military veterans being harassed by courts some 40 years after their service.

Mrs Braverman said that while she personally would like to see the UK leaving the European Convention on Human Rights, she accepted the government will not do that, saying it is a debate for another day.

She said that in any case, there were other ways to solve the small boats problem aside from leaving the ECHR.

And she called for Parliament to sit through Christmas if necessary to pass emergency legislation.

She said: All of this comes down to a simple question: who governs Britain? Where does ultimate authority in the UK sit?

Is it with the British people and their elected representatives in Parliament? Or is it in the vague, shifting and unaccountable concept of international law?

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The Sentencing Bill suspends sentences of under one year for criminals convicted of lower level offences - MICHAEL COOPER/PA

Plans to spare thousands of criminals from jail will severely undermine confidence in the criminal justice system, Suella Braverman has warned.

The former home secretary, who was sacked three weeks ago by Rishi Sunak, said she had serious concerns about new legislation that would suspend sentences of under one year for criminals convicted of lower level offences.

The Sentencing Bill, currently before the Commons, will establish a legal presumption against short jail terms under which courts will instead impose penalties in the community, where offenders will be required to carry out unpaid work such as clearing up litter and graffiti.

The presumption will cover burglars, thieves, shoplifters, drug dealers and drink drivers but exclude anyone convicted of sex, violent or terror offences.

Mrs Braverman said: I appreciate the pressures facing the prison system right now. However, I have serious concerns about the Sentencing Bill which suspends short sentences. This measure will mean that thousands of criminals who would have otherwise spent some time in jail will now not do so.

It is likely that many will re-offend, committing more crime, increasing the burden on police and the risk to public safety.

Suella Braverman said the Bill raised serious concerns and increased the burden on police - JEFF J MITCHELL/GETTY IMAGES EUROPE

Prison works. It is a deterrent, it takes criminals off our streets and is justice for their victims. This Bill will severely undermine confidence in our criminal justice system. The solution to this problem is to build more prisons, not let criminals off the hook.

The short sentencing plan is one of a series of measures forced on the Government after jails in England and Wales ran out of space. Last month, the prison population hit a record high of 88,225 with just 557 places left across all 120 jails in England and Wales. It beat the previous record of 88,179 after the riots in 2011.

Announcing the reform, Alex Chalk, the Justice Secretary, said it was an opportunity to reform the penal system by locking up the most dangerous offenders for longer but ensuring more lower-level offenders got the tough community sentences which evidence showed cut reoffending rates by more than half to around 22 per cent.

The taxpayer should not be forking out for a system which risks further criminalising offenders, and trapping them in a merry-go-round of short sentences, Mr Chalk told MPs.

Offenders released under the plan will be fitted with electronic, GPS, alcohol or drug tags and placed under curfews of up to 20 hours a day at weekends. Any repeat offender breaching their suspended sentence would be returned to court where they would face having to serve the full term in jail.

In an interview with The Telegraph, Mr Chalk said the proposals would not be a soft option and would be restricted to those who might genuinely be rehabilitated by being punished in the community.

He said any offender who had broken community or any other court orders would lose their right to be considered under a presumption for non-custodial sentences under the terms of his new bill.

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For three weeks, Brian Laundries parents knew that his fiancee, Gabby Petito, was dead after he called them saying she was gone, but they instead issued false public statements of hope and lawyered up, to the agony of her family, Petitos parents allege in an amended civil complaint filed in Florida.

In the amended legal filing Thursday, Petitos parents accuse the Laundries and their attorney of intentionally withholding information about the 22-year-olds death after their son frantically called them for legal help during an ill-fated cross-country trip in August 2021. Brian Laundrie confessed to killing Petito on that trip in a notebook found near his body after his death by suicide a month later.

The filing, which is part of an ongoing civil lawsuit seeking more than $30,000 in damages for emotional distress, was amended following depositions with the Laundries and their attorney, Steve Bertolino, in October, a lawyer for the Petito family told HuffPost on Tuesday.

Supporters of

Supporters of "Justice for Gabby" gathered at the entrance of a park in Florida where Brian Laundrie's remains were found on Oct. 20, 2021. Gabby Petito's online chronicle of her "van life" trip with Laundrie attracted wide interest in her disappearance and death.

Prior to the deposition, we had a belief that they knew, but we didnt know what they knew, attorney Pat Reilly said. In their deposition, they acknowledged that Brian called them frantically. He said Gabby was gone and he needed a lawyer.

Christopher and Roberta Laundrie have denied claims that they concealed their sons murder confession. Bertolino on Tuesday dismissed the details released in the amended complaint as nothing new.

The Plaintiffs are now tweaking their allegations in a Third Amended Complaint, he told HuffPost in an email while declining further comment.

According to the complaint, Laundrie placed a frantic call to his parents on Aug. 29 seeking legal help. His parents reached out to Bertolino that day, shared what their son had told them and secured his services. Bertolino then reached out to lawyers in Wyoming, where Petitos body was found weeks later.

Gabrielle

Gabrielle "Gabby" Petito is seen talking to a police officer after the van she was traveling in with Brian Laundrie was pulled over in Utah on Aug. 12, 2021. The 22-year-old was found dead the following month.

To buy him some time, Laundrie texted Petitos family using her cellphone to make them believe that she was still alive. He returned to his parents Florida home without her on Sept. 1. On Sept. 13, two days after Petitos family reported her missing, he went missing, too, the complaint states.

Petitos body was found on Sept. 19 near Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, and Laundrie was found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound a month later in Florida. Her death was ruled a homicide, and Laundrie had confessed to killing her in a notebook that was found with his body, authorities said.

The Laundries conduct throughout the search for Petito was outrageous and went beyond all bounds of decency, the complaint states on behalf of Petitos parents, Joseph Petito and Nichole Schmidt.

Gabby Petito's mother, Nichole Schmidt, at a news conference days after her daughter's body was found. She accused Brian Laundrie's mother of blocking her phone calls and Facebook messages while her daughter was missing.

Gabby Petito's mother, Nichole Schmidt, at a news conference days after her daughter's body was found. She accused Brian Laundrie's mother of blocking her phone calls and Facebook messages while her daughter was missing.

The Laundries were in cahoots with their son and knew he had killed her but they didnt speak up. Instead, the couple left on a two-day trip on Sept. 6. On Sept. 10, Laundries mother, Roberta, blocked Nichole Schmidt on her phone and then Facebook so that the distraught mother couldnt contact her, the complaint states.

From Sept. 10 until their daughters body was found on Sept. 19, the couple claim they were extremely distraught and given no relief by Laundries family, who released a statement to the media that expressed hope that the young woman would be found.

For the Laundries and Steven Bertolino to express their hope that Gabrielle Patito was located and reunited with her family, at a time when they knew she had been murdered by Brian Laundrie was beyond outrageous, they said. They knew or should have known that Joseph Petito and Nichole Schmidt would likely suffer emotional distress from the statements.

Brian Laundrie speaks with police in Utah on Aug. 12, 2021. The families of Petito and Laundrie last year reached a $3 million settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit.

Brian Laundrie speaks with police in Utah on Aug. 12, 2021. The families of Petito and Laundrie last year reached a $3 million settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit.

The Petito and Laundrie families settled a separate, wrongful death lawsuit in Florida for $3 million last year.

The Petito family has an additional lawsuit outstanding against police in Moab, Utah. That lawsuit accuses police of failing to recognize signs of domestic violence and to help Petito after the couple was questioned by officers days before the young woman was found strangled to death.

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Look out, Wall Street: Miami is positioning itself to be a serious financial rival. Citadel founder and billionaire Ken Griffin recently shared that he sees Miami supplanting New York City as the finance center of America within the next 50 years.

If events like Wednesdays opening of the BNP Paribas Miami office in Brickell are any indication, he may be closer to being right than it seems.

BNP Paribas choosing Miami to open its newest office reinforces our communitys status as a top financial hub within the global economy, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said in a statement.

Levine Cava celebrated Miamis emerging finance sector in October after it was ranked for the first time at No. 24 worldwide and No. 7 nationally in the 34th edition of the Global Financial Centres Index, compiled twice a year by London-based think tank Z/Yen and the China Development Institute.

Since Griffin bought a $75 million Miami home in December 2021, he has been affirmative about relocating his company to South Florida and did that in 2022. According to Bloomberg, he is in the process of building a $1 billion headquarters in Brickell.

Artist Najja Moon, center, chats with visitors as they tour the new European bank BNP Paribas office after its opening Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at the Brickell financial district in Miami, Florida.

Citadel is a client of BNP Paribas, a French bank with $2 billion in assets and the second-most of any European bank. The bank opened an office Wednesday in the Brickell financial district at 801 Brickell Avenue and joins other top banks in the district like JPMorgan Chase, Point72 Asset Management, Apollo Global Management and Blackstone. All are top financial firms that have also established a Miami presence since March 2020.

BNP Paribas has 20 employees at its Brickell office and plans to build its staff to 50 over the next 18 months. BNP Paribas has 3,500 employees in New York, Boston, Denver, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco and now Miami. It employs 190,000 people in 65 countries worldwide.

We intend to hire four full-time employees over the course of 2024 to support our business locally, said Miami office Managing Director Matthew OConnor of the search for employees from local colleges and universities. We are here to be part of the community. We want to be integrated in the community personally and professionally,

BNP Paribas has invested $7 million in its Miami office and leased the 7,000 square foot space in September 2022. Employees have access to 57 work spaces, three conference rooms, a lounge and kitchen. Miami-based visual artist Najja Moons work is featured prominently in the hall of the new office.

A financial analyst works with a client inside the office of European bank BNP Paribas after announcing the opening of its Brickell office on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

Miami office Chief Operations Officer Annabella Espina expressed excitement about the opportunity to help lead the French banks Florida expansion. A native of Venezuela, Espina has worked with BNP Paribas for 17 years across Mexico City, New York City and Paris and has family in the Miami area.

Espina said she believes the Miami office will allow BNP Paribas to capitalize on the momentum of national and international businesses relocating to South Florida.

In the month that weve been here already, I can feel the sense of community we have created, she said. We look forward to becoming part of the family here in Miami.

Artist Najja Moon, center, chats with visitors as they toured the new European bank BNP Paribas office after announcing the opening of its Brickell office on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at Miamis Brickell financial district in Miami, Florida.
This photo taken on March 1, 2023 shows an intelligent production base of the Great Wall Motors (GWM) in Yongchuan District of Chongqing, southwest China. [Photo/Xinhua]

Heads of the World Trade Organization (WTO), the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the International Trade Center (ITC) and other international organizations headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, have expressed their optimism about China's economic fundamentals and China's economic development trajectory in recent interviews with Xinhua.



An recovering economy

UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan said that China's contribution to global economic growth is higher than those of other major economies.



China's economic growth has been built on advantages in industrial production, infrastructure, logistics and technology, which means that China plays an important role in global trade and value chains, and with the successful completion of structural adjustments in the economy, industries and trade, the Chinese economy will continue to grow in the future, Grynspan said.

Optimistic about China's economic prospects, Pamela Coke-Hamilton, executive director of the ITC, said that China has a huge consumer market of 1.4 billion people, and from the economic data released by the National Bureau of Statistics of China in the first three quarters of 2023, China's consumer demand has begun to pick up, which will stimulate the sustained growth of economy and trade.

China's research and development and investment in new technologies and industries continue, and economic transformation will bring sustained growth, and meanwhile, China continues to open up and embrace economic globalization, she said.

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said that China's opening-up, new development pattern and domestic consumption will help promote sustained economic recovery.

Tourists visit Xiangdong Street of Xinhua County, central China's Hunan Province, Oct. 2, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

Transformation and upgrade

China's leading position in many cutting-edge areas such as battery technology, artificial intelligence and electric vehicles, as well as the ongoing transformation and upgrade of the Chinese economy all point to continued growth in the future, Grynspan said, viewing the Chinese government's efforts to boost domestic demand as crucial to promoting accelerated economic growth.



The global trade structure is currently being shaped, with trade in goods declining and trade in services, especially those related to the digital economy, growing, she said.

China's economy is in the process of transforming itself into one driven by consumer demand, led by the service sector and enabled by technology, Grynspan said, adding that at the same time, China will remain the world's leading exporter of goods and services.

China's industrial structure has changed significantly, with explosive growth registered in the industry of electric vehicles, said Coke-Hamilton.

China ranks among the top exporters of electric vehicles in the world, generating new opportunities for China and global economic development, Coke-Hamilton said, voicing hope that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing countries can participate in this process and share the benefits.

Visitors view a vehicle at the booth of Chinese electric automaker XPeng during the China Motor Show (Tianjin) 2022 in north China's Tianjin, Nov. 10, 2022. [Photo/Xinhua]

Boosting global trade growth

Earlier in November, Grynspan visited China and attended the sixth China International Import Expo (CIIE). She believed that the expo has created valuable opportunities for foreign enterprises, particularly SMEs from developing countries, to enter the Chinese market.



SMEs account for 90 percent of the global business landscape, provide 60-70 percent of jobs and produce 50 percent of the world's GDP, she said, referring to it as vital for SMEs to be able to benefit from China's growth, trade and market dynamics.

Coke-Hamilton also attended the sixth CIIE. She believed that the CIIE has played a great role in helping enterprises from the least developed countries enter the Chinese market, deeming the expo as an "important opportunity" for the world, especially developing countries.

An eco caravan model of Ampaire is exhibited at the 6th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in east China's Shanghai, Nov. 10, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

Since 2008, China has become the main export destination for the least developed countries, receiving more than a quarter of their exports, which is "quite a large proportion," she said.

In Coke-Hamilton's view, one of the most important ways to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals is to promote sustained export growth in the least developed countries, which is conducive to their economic and social development. "The CIIE is actually part of the solution," she said.

Okonjo-Iweala said that as the world's second-largest economy, China plays a pivotal role in international trade.

China's good trade performance, she said, will help promote the economic and trade development of other countries and regions, especially developing economies.
Sarasota School Board Chairwoman Karen Rose is calling for the resignation of her colleague Bridget Ziegler, joining fellow board member Tom Edwards in asking for her to step down in the wake of controversy.

Although there are 20 revised district school policies on the board's agenda for a vote on Tuesday evening, the focus of the meeting will almost certainly land on Ziegler. In what will likely be one of the most attended meetings since the board moved to terminate its previous superintendent last year, Ziegler faces a crowd of both conservatives and liberals calling on her to resign as investigators consider an allegation of sexual assault of another woman by her husband, Christian Ziegler.

Christian Ziegler also faces mounting pressure from Gov. Ron DeSantis and other Republicans to resign his position as Florida GOP chairman.

Rose, who tends to align with Ziegler's conservative politics on the board, told Florida Politics that Ziegler's continued presence on the board would "cause irreparably harmful distractions to (the district's) critical mission."

Our community has been rocked by the disturbing revelations surrounding my fellow School Board member Bridget Ziegler and the criminal allegations against her husband, Christian Ziegler," Rose told Florida Politics. "I am shocked and deeply saddened by the conduct and deplore the salacious news coverage. But my first responsibility is to the Sarasota County School District."

She said she asked Superintendent Terry Connor to add an item to Tuesday's agenda for a motion for a resolution asking for Ziegler to step down. The vote would put each board member on the record about whether they want Ziegler to remain on the panel.

The Herald-Tribune reached out to Rose for comment on Tuesday, but she did not respond.

Edwards, a self-described moderate endorsed by local Democrats, had called Tuesday for Ziegler's departure, saying she had become a distraction from student achievement.

"She is nothing but a distraction from before and only getting worse, and it will never go away as long as she sits there," he said. "As a School Board member, my focus is on our students, their academic achievement and educational outcomes. It is not on the Zieglers' escapades."

She has not been accused of any legal wrongdoing and was not under investigation as of Wednesday. Ziegler did not respond to requests for comment.

Sarasota District 1 School Board member Bridget Ziegler, now School Board chair, speaks to voters before Gov. Ron DeSantis takes the stage at the Sahib Shriner Event Center in Sarasota in August 2022.

Board members Tim Enos and Robyn Marinelli, who campaigned with Ziegler in 2022 under the "ZEM" movement promoted by conservative Republicans, also did not respond to requests for comment.

Ziegler has served on the School Board since 2014 following an appointment by then-Gov. Rick Scott, and was also a co-founder of the conservative education activist group Moms for Liberty. The group has pushed for the removal of books and classroom materials with references to LGBTQ+ topics.

She was reelected in 2022, meaning her term ends in 2026.

If Ziegler were to resign her seat on the board, DeSantis would appoint a replacement until August, when the appointed incumbent could run for reelection. There is no policy to remove or vote to recall a School Board member from their seat.

Mounting calls for Bridget Ziegler to resign

Support our Schools, a local activist group that often sides against the conservative-leaning board majority, released a statement Wednesday denouncing "the hypocrisy displayed by the Zieglers" while demanding an apology and Ziegler's resignation from the School Board.

"While most of us dont care what consenting adults do in the privacy of their home, the disingenuousness of the Zieglers is deafening as they have spent years casting aspersions on the LGBTQ+ community ..." the statement read. "... How many people, particularly young people, have suffered from Mrs. Zieglers blatant insistence on spearheading the culture wars, her bigotry, and homophobia?"

The organization's statement makes mention of the "Don't Say Gay" legislation signed by DeSantis and promoted by Bridge Ziegler, claiming that she was focused on culture war issues rather than student achievement.

"The Sarasota community needs to start the healing process and we cannot do that while Mrs. Zeigler continues to hold court on the board," the statement read.

Some Sarasota conservatives who worked to get Ziegler re-elected in 2022 have also soured on the former board chairwoman. The Sarasota County School District Transparency Page, an anonymous, conservative Facebook page that helped campaign to flip Sarasota's School Board to a conservative majority, posted late Tuesday evening a call for Ziegler's resignation.

The post said Ziegler needs to step down to focus on her well-being and that of her children.

"She must know that every School Board Meeting will be dominated by leftist screechers attacking her," the post read. "Don't do this to the School District, don't do this to yourself and don't do this to your children."

Alexis Spiegelman, the former chair of the Sarasota County chapter of Moms for Liberty, floated the idea of Ziegler resigning on one of the Transparency Page's Facebook posts.

A slate of conservative candidates endorsed by Gov. Ron DeSantis won the Sarasota County School Board election in August 2022. They are Bridget Ziegler, center, Tim Enos, right, and Robyn Marinelli.

"If we are making decisions based on principle, we should all be calling for Bridget Ziegler to resign," Spiegelman wrote. "She's a phony and she doesn't walk the walk."

Criticism that the Zieglers were hypocritical intensified after details emerged in police documents of Bridget Ziegler's sexual involvement with the woman who has alleged she was assaulted by Christian Ziegler in October.

The alleged victim and Bridget Ziegler told police they had a three-way sexual encounter more than a year ago that included the two women and Christian Ziegler, according to police documents. The three had planned another such encounter on Oct. 2, but Ziegler didn't attend. Christian Ziegler went to the alleged victim's apartment anyway, which is when the alleged sexual assault occurred, the documents show.

Bridget Ziegler has also been outspoken on transgender issues, including through a social media post in which she's pictured wearing a shirt reading "Real women aren't men" referencing transgender women.

Screenshot of a Tweet from Sarasota School Board Chairwoman Bridget Ziegler where she points to her shirt that reads "real women aren't men", which she posted to her Twitter account April 2.

Follow Herald-Tribune Education Reporter Steven Walker on Twitter at @swalker_7. He can be reached at sbwalker@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Bridget Ziegler facing mounting pressure to resign amid scandal
Britain announced a new winter humanitarian aid package for Ukraine that focuses on the needs of the most vulnerable populations in the country, said the UKs Foreign Ministry.

The primary winter aid package for Ukraine from Britain includes humanitarian assistance totaling $36.5 million.

This support will be further bolstered by additional funding of approximately $10 million, addressing the needs of the most vulnerable populations in Ukraine, such as women, girls, the elderly, and people with disabilities, the UK Foreign Ministry said.

Read also:

The aid package is part of the overall humanitarian support from Great Britain to Ukraine and the region for the years 2023-2024, amounting to over $160 million.

The UK and the US are deeply bound by a shared mission to defend the values that provide security and prosperity for us all, said UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron.

Read also: Britain to donate air defense missiles to Ukraine  Wallace

That is why we remain unwavering in our support of Ukraine. If we allow Putins aggression to succeed, it will embolden those who challenge democracy and threaten our way of life. We cannot let them prevail.

Former British Prime Minister Cameron is making his first visit to Washington, DC as the UK Foreign Secretary on Dec. 6, where he intends to persuade the U.S. of the necessity to strengthen military and financial support for Ukraine, Reuters reported on Dec. 6.

UK intends to maintain or even increase its level of assistance to Ukraine in 2024, the UK Foreign Ministry said on Dec. 5.

Britain has delivered state-of-the-art multi-role Martlet guided missiles to Ukraine, aiding in the fight against Russian drones, The Times reported on Dec. 4.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
On December 7, 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy conducted a surprise attack on the U.S. Navy base at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, Hawaii. The engagement was an overwhelming tactical victory for the Japanese who succeeded in sinking four battleships, one former battleship and damaging four more. Planning for the attack was spearheaded by Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto and began in early 1941. However, his inspiration came from British Navy Admiral Andrew Cunningham the year before.

Although already outdated at the time, the Fairey Swordfish made military history in late 1940 (MOD)

In 1940, the airplane was not the proven military weapon that it is today. Although the wood and canvas biplanes of WWI had evolved into metal monoplanes during the interwar period, the lethality of aircraft had yet to be proven. Ironically, it was a biplane with struts and braces and covered in fabric that validated the importance of the airplane on the battlefield.

The British Royal Navy maintained control of the Mediterranean Sea through its bases at Gibraltar, Malta, and in Egypt. However, the entry of Italy into WWII in 1940 threatened this. Italy's naval doctrine kept its mighty First Squadron in port at Taranto, on the southeast coast, as a projection of power from anchor. Still, the presence of six battleships, seven heavy cruisers, seven light cruisers, and 13 destroyers was unsettling to the Royal Navy and its vital shipping convoys.

An aerial view of Taranto (Public Domain)

In order to deal a devastating blow to the Italian Navy, the British decided that the attack had to be carried out at night. The only way to conduct a night raid on Taranto was with airplanes. Specifically, the Fleet Air Arm's Fairey Swordfish biplane torpedo bombers were capable of night attack and could strike the harbor with little warning, minimizing the Italian defenses. Under Admiral Cunningham, British Mediterranean Fleet commander, this plan became known as Operation Judgment.

Judgment called for a small strike force of 24 Swordfish; half served as primary strike aircraft carrying torpedos while the other half carried aerial bombs and flares to create diversions. After several reconnaissance flights were made from Malta, aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious and her task force assembled near Cephalonia, about 200 miles from Taranto. On November 11, 1940, just before 2100 hours, the first 12 Swordfish took off. Ninety minutes later, the second wave of nine Swordfish followed. However, the already reduced force dropped yet another plane due to a mechanical problem.

The Swordfish crews braved intense fire during the night raid (Royal Navy)

The 20 planes relied on auxiliary fuel tanks to reach Taranto. Waiting for them there were 101 anti-aircraft guns and 193 machine guns. However, the Italian gunners were primarily focused on high-altitude attacks. Low-flying aircraft like the Swordfish were defended against with barrage balloons. Luckily for the British, high winds blew away 60 balloons and left just 27. Moreover, only one-third of the 42,000 feet of anti-torpedo nets were installed around the Italian capital ships. Regardless, these nets failed to reach the bottom of the harbor and the British torpedos could clear them by about two feet.

The first wave struck Taranto at 2258. Bombs set oil tanks ablaze while torpedos ripped holes in two battleships. One Swordfish was shot down in the first wave and the two crewmen were subsequently captured. The second wave struck just before midnight and scored a direct hit on a third battleship for the loss of one Swordfish and its two crewmen KIA. In addition to disabling three battleships, the aerial attack damaged one heavy cruiser and two destroyers. The Italian lost 59 men killed and 600 wounded.

Battleship Littorio surrounded by tugs after Operation Judgement (Public Domain)

Launched from Illustrious, the Swordfish attack on Taranto was the first all-aircraft ship-to-ship naval engagement in history. "Taranto, and the night of 1112 November 1940, should be remembered forever as having shown once and for all that in the Fleet Air Arm the Navy has its most devastating weapon," Cunningham famously said. Taranto proved that torpedo planes could devastate the battleships that the world's navies held in such high value. Moreover, the IJN sent an observer to Taranto to investigate the attack. After developing a breakaway wooden torpedo nose for use in shallow ports, the Japanese scaled up Operation Judgement and carried out a similar attack on Pearl Harbor the next year.
FILE - Sanjay Shah poses for a photograph on the Palm Jumeriah Island in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Sept. 29, 2020. A Dubai-based British hedge fund trader sought by Danish authorities for orchestrating a $1.7 billion tax fraud, considered one of the largest tax frauds in the Scandinavian country, has been extradited from the United Arab Emirates to Denmark where he faces prosecution, officials said Wednesday Dec. 6, 2023. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike, File)

COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP)  A Dubai-based British hedge fund trader sought by Danish authorities for allegedly orchestrating a $1.7 billion tax fraud, considered one of the largest in the Scandinavian country, has been extradited from the United Arab Emirates, officials said Wednesday.

Financier Sanjay Shah was convicted in May in Dubai of masterminding a scheme that ran from 2012 to 2015 in which foreign businesses pretended to own shares in Danish companies and claimed tax refunds for which they were not eligible. A court in the United Arab Emirates had cleared his extradition.

Danish media said he was aboard a plane from Dubai that landed in Copenhagen early Wednesday. Danish police officers traveled to Dubai to pick him up, the Justice Ministry said.

It goes without saying that we as a society cannot accept that our state treasury is exposed to it, Danish Taxation Minister Jeppe Bruus said, calling it one of the biggest criminal fraud cases in Danish history.

Foreign Minister Lars Lkke Rasmussen added that Denmark was sending an important signal that you cannot achieve impunity by staying abroad.

Shah's British lawyer Chris Waters told Danish broadcaster TV2 that his client denies any wrongdoing and continues to doubt that he can receive a fair trial in Denmark. His Danish lawyer, Kare Pihlmann, told TV2 that they need to read the case file of more than 300,000 pages before deciding on their line of defense.

Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard repeatedly told a news conference ahead of his return that Shah was innocent until proven guilty. But when you are the main suspect in a case worth billions, it attracts attention, he said.

Bruus, who attended the U.N. climate conference in Dubai, wrote on X, formerly Twitter, that he was supposed to fly home but had to leave his seat to the main suspect.

Once on Danish soil, Shah will formally be arrested and Denmarks prosecution authority will request that he be remanded in custody. A trial in suburban Copenhagen is set for Jan. 8.

Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard said the deal with the United Arab Emirate meant that Denmark also would seek the extradition of a man who is wanted for the killing in 2019 of a police officer. The suspect raced through central Copenhagen in a car and officers tried to stop him.
The British government has sanctioned 46 individuals and entities accused of providing technology and services to Russia. File photo by Kremlin Pool /UPI

Dec. 6 (UPI) -- The British government Wednesday has sanctioned 46 individuals and entities for conducting business that supports the Russian military.

"Foreign military suppliers exporting equipment and parts to Russia are among dozens of individual and groups sanctioned today to target those helping Putin's war machine," the British government said in a press release Wednesday.

The British Government said companies from China, Belarus, Turkey, Serbia, Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates.

The British government said, "31 individuals and entities linked to designing and manufacturing drones and missile parts and importing and supplying key electronic components."

Among the sanctioned companies are 4 UAE-based companies accused of helping Russian companies avoid oil sanctions.

Avio Chem: a Serbian company accused of sending aircraft parts to Russia.

JSC Display Design Bureau: A Belarusian entity that provides the country's military with technology.

Smart Trading Limited: A Turkish company accused of sending sanctioned electronic components to Russia.

Mvizion: An Uzbekistan-based company accused of importing parts to Russia.

Asia Pacific Links Limited, Xinghua Co, limited and Sinno Electronics Co., Limited, are accused of providing Russia with sanctioned products.

The Rusich Military Group is accused of being linked to the Wagner Mercenary Group, and of having forces deployed in support of the Russian military in Ukraine.

"Alongside our partners, sanctions on international supply chains have resulted in a 98% reduction of Russian imports of battlefield technology from sanctioning countries," the British government said.
Los Angeles resident Emily Dibini joins a group of Jewish activists last month at a meeting of the Los Angeles City Council, calling on elected officials to support a cease-fire in Gaza. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

Weeks after the Hamas invasion of Israel and amid that nation's attacks on Gaza, a few hundred Bay Area residents packed a Richmond City Council meeting to passionately debate the merits of a resolution calling for a cease-fire.

Hamas' attack on Oct. 7 killed roughly 1,200 people and led to the kidnapping of more than 200. Since that day, Israel is believed to be responsible for at least 15,800 Palestinian deaths.

By the end of the Richmond council meeting  after six hours of raging debate  members passed a proclamation saying the city's 114,000 inhabitants stood in solidarity with the Palestinian people of Gaza. It also accused the state of Israel of ethnic cleansing and the war crime of collective punishment.

Richmond is not alone. Other California government agencies  including the Santa Ana City Council and the San Francisco Board of Supervisors  are considering or have debated taking a stand on a war that has spurred violent, dueling protests in the state as well as schisms in schools and community strife.

Local governments have been taking stands on global issues for decades. But given the intense debate over the war, the resolutions have heightened divisions in some communities and raised questions about what governments get out of them.

Much of the debate has taken place in heavily Democratic cities, underscoring the larger fissures the party is seeing over the war, both in California and nationally. Some public comments made at an Oakland City Council meeting sparked criticism from top Democrats, who said they downplayed the bloodshed by Hamas.

Read more: This small, Latino city took a public stance in support of Palestinians. Will others follow?

Some who commented in person at Richmond's Oct. 27 meeting applauded City Council members for taking action and helping the "caged people of Gaza" with a "brave and necessary act" against the "apartheid state of Israel."

Others fiercely railed against the same body, saying that claims of apartheid, genocide and ethnic cleansing were not just "fundamentally untrue and inaccurate" but also "inflammatory and biased" and would "deeply exacerbate the trauma and vulnerability of the local Jewish community."

Like Richmond, the cities of Cudahy and Oakland recently passed resolutions.

Cudahys said Palestinians had lived under violent and dehumanizing conditions and that the council was grieving all lives lost as a result of this genocide. It passed with three votes for, one abstention and one absence. Oakland was unanimous in its passage of a resolution that included input from Jewish and Muslim leaders and called for a cease-fire in language that mirrored House Resolution 786, authored by Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.).

The Berkeley City Council, however, objected to making any statements, despite calls to do so from protesters at meetings, believing they fan the flames of hatred here at home. Santa Ana council members and the San Francisco County Board of Supervisors, meanwhile, had resolutions on their meeting agendas.

A Jewish activist calls on elected officials to support a cease-fire during a meeting of the Los Angeles City Council on Nov. 28. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

Santa Ana's draft references Human Rights Watch's definition of Gaza as "the world's largest open-air prison" while quoting Israeli American scholar Omer Bartov, a Holocaust expert, who said Israel's action marked "a clear intention of ethnic cleansing." The City Council debated for hours at Tuesday night's meeting before ultimately not supporting the measure.

San Francisco Supervisor Dean Preston also presented a resolution at Tuesday's meeting, calling for a cease-fire and describing Hamas' attack as "brutal" and Israel's subsequent counterattack as "devastating." Groups, such as the Arab Resource & Organizing Center, called for "a mass mobilization for Gaza" in the form of supporters flooding the meeting. More than 1,000 people packed City Hall. An official vote is expected to take place at an upcoming meeting.

Read more: California city first in U.S. to officially back Palestinians, accuses Israel of 'ethnic cleansing'

A few Sundays after the Richmond City Council made its stand, the Rev. Kamal Hassan, Presbyterian pastor of Sojourner Truth Church, spoke before his congregation of about 100 of his desire for "Palestine to be free."

The 66-year-old Richmond pastor called the council's action a correct and in some ways a courageous stand.

There is certainly a great deal of opposition," he said, "to speaking on behalf of Palestinians and the people of Gaza and naming Israel as complicit in the harms."

Deacon Asha Weber said she had seen members of the mostly Black congregation and the community identify with Palestinian suffering.

Some folks are calling out because their people are being marginalized or they identified with the marginalization, said Weber, who is in her mid-30s. And they see the consequences of structural entities having a certain amount of power, the right access and allies, while others have none.

Weber was referencing Israel's alliance with the United States. America contributed $3.3 billion in foreign assistance to Israel in 2022, the latest year for which information was available, according to USAFacts.org. Almost all that money went to military assistance, according to the fiscal government watchdog.

Read more: Newport Beach student suspended for remarks to another student, including "Free Palestine"

Weber said she was concerned, however, with acts of violence against the Jewish community and said their real fear is something that we should listen to.

Like a number of other locals, though, she didn't feel the council had overstepped its role.

William Hall, an adjunct professor of business and political science at Webster University in St. Louis, said there was a long-standing precedent nationwide of city councils passing resolutions on international matters.

Berkeley's council, though not currently in favor of making a resolution, was one of the first to call out South African apartheid in 1972. In Los Angeles, council members passed a resolution in 2003 opposing the Iraq War, and many cities passed resolutions showing solidarity with Ukraine shortly after the Russian invasion.

Hall said, however, that whereas previous resolutions often had a "direct or significant impact," he did not believe such resolutions currently being passed on the Israel-Hamas war would have any effect on U.S. foreign policy.

And he noted that the reasons cities pursue such proclamations aren't always noble.

He said municipalities could be making these statements to distract or take away attention from areas that theyre failing. Or, he added, city councils could be supporting one political interest over another as a way to quell political pressure or to pick the side they think will enhance their political capital.

Jane Kemp, a board of directors member with Richmond's Temple Beth Hillel, said in her public comments before the City Council that the resolution was a "vanity project" meant to boost "progressive politics."

Kevin Wilk, a member of the City Council in the Bay Area city of Walnut Creek, implored the Richmond City Council in a letter to avoid picking a side due to "pressure from the community," which he described as "intense."

"Whichever way you vote, you will upset many Richmond residents who you have the responsibility of representing," Wilk wrote.

Read more: Bay Bridge blocked off by pro-Palestinian protesters during APEC summit, Biden visit

Regardless of the reason behind the decision, careful wording in resolutions is paramount to avoid additional strife, Hall said. The former U.S. Department of Justice mediator helped communities deal with conflicts due to race, religion and other matters for more than a decade.

The problem ... is that you can fan the flames of hatred, Hall said. When a community makes a decision to recommend a resolution, much thought should go into the impact and the consequences.

For 58-year-old Orinda resident Diana Honig, Richmonds resolution presented a false dichotomy between being pro-Palestinian' or standing with Israel.

The former disability rights attorney, Reform Jew and lifelong progressive said she does not support Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. She is also against "the occupation of Palestinian territories, the illegal settlements in the West Bank, and the failure of the Israeli military to minimize civilian casualties.

She said the Richmond City Council is driving a wedge through the community with triggering language.

Community leaders," she said, "have a responsibility to ensure that they acknowledge differing perspectives, engage in rigorous fact-checking, exert caution in making assumptions, and reflect deeply about the best way to craft messages they are using to influence community thought.

Like in Richmond, debate over Oaklands resolution lasted for hours, with hundreds of speakers and more than a thousand messages posted online.

Read more: Jews demanding cease-fire in Gaza occupy Oakland federal building. Hundreds are arrested

The Oakland meeting made national headlines after a clip on social media showed several speakers opposing an amendment to the resolution that would have condemned Hamas, with some speakers appearing to back the militant organization. The amendment failed. Gov. Gavin Newsom and others later criticized the comments on Hamas.

Hamas is a terrorist organization. They must be called out for what they are: evil, Newsom wrote on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

The discussion and the resolution left Christian Hernandez feeling "split." Hernandez worked for four years at Oaklands Community Education Partnerships, an organization dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for homeless and housing-unstable children.

I can really sympathize with everything happening overseas, and its important to be aware of the situation, said Hernandez, 27, a Spanish-language interpreter. However, you dont need to look halfway around the world for problems.

Hernandez said it was jarring to see hundreds of people attending Oaklands meeting, in person and virtually, while "not showing interest" on important local issues.

Months earlier, only eight people spoke about the citys endorsement of the Ebony Alert Bill, which establishes an alert system to help find lost Black youth throughout the state.

It bothers me that were not as engaged in other important issues as a community, Hernandez said.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
You are here: China

Chinese authorities have issued a warning about potential risks of low temperatures, rain and snow disasters in the eastern and central regions of the country in December.

Three cold waves are expected to hit China this month, according to a joint analysis by government agencies including the Ministry of Emergency Management and China Meteorological Administration.

The agencies also forecast high risks of forest fires in the southern and southwestern parts of China, noting that the country may experience more destructive waves than usual this month.
On a recent November evening, Angie Phoenix waited at a pharmacy here in Colorados second-largest city to pick up prescription drugs to treat her high blood pressure and arm seizures.

But this transaction was different from typical exchanges that occur every day at thousands of pharmacies across the United States. The cost to Phoenix, 50, who lives in the nearby community of Falcon and has no health insurance, was nothing.

Open Bible Medical Clinic and Pharmacy runs Colorados only current drug donation program. Most of the medications it dispenses come from nursing homes across the state.

We take any and all of it, said founding pharmacist Frieda Martin, who used those donations to fill 1,900 prescriptions for 200 low-income and uninsured adults last year. Participants pay a $15 annual registration fee for free medications and care at the adjoining clinic.

Drug donation programs like this one in Colorado and one in California take unopened, unexpired medications from health care facilities, private residents, pharmacies, or prisons that pile up when patients are discharged, change drugs, or die, and re-dispense them to uninsured and low-income patients. About 8% of adults in the U.S. who took prescription drugs in 2021, about 9 million people, did not take them as prescribed because of cost, and uninsured adults were more likely to skip medications than those with insurance, according to the National Health Interview Survey.

The programs vary in size but are often run by charitable pharmacies, nonprofits, or governments, and keep drugs out of landfills or incinerators, where an estimated $11 billion in unused medications are disposed of each year.

Forty-four states already have laws allowing drug donations, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Many programs, like Colorados, are small or underutilized. Now, Colorado and other states are seeking to expand their approach.

Donated prescription drugs are shown in November at Open Bible Clinic and Pharmacy in Colorado Springs, Colo. California and Colorado are among the states looking to expand their drug donation programs, putting them in the hands of low-income patients.

Drug donation programs are effective. There is a huge need for them. And there are opportunities for states to help their residents by enacting new laws, said George Wang, a co-founder of SIRUM, which stands for Supporting Initiatives to Redistribute Unused Medicine, a nonprofit with the largest network of drug donors and distributors in the U.S.

Colorado Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez, a Democrat, said he plans to introduce a bill next year to create a drug donation program to help the estimated 10% of state residents who cant fill their prescriptions because of cost.

Similarly, legislation in California signed last year allows expansion of the states first and only drug donation program, Better Health Pharmacy in Santa Clara County, to San Mateo and San Francisco counties. Kathy Le, the supervising pharmacist at Better Health, said it is in the early stages of working with other county-run pharmacies in California to develop similar programs.

The Wyoming Medication Donation Program, based in Cheyenne, uses mail distribution to reach residents, including those in remote parts of the state who may not have local pharmacies, said Sarah Gilliard, a pharmacist and its program manager. The program mails a total of approximately 16,000 free prescriptions annually to 2,000 Wyoming residents who are low-income, uninsured, or underinsured.

Access is definitely a big consideration when it comes to the design of our program, she said.

Many of the Wyoming programs participants are 65 and older, on Medicare, with fixed incomes and unaffordable copays, but Gilliard said there has been a recent increase in participants between the ages of 20 and 40. Wyoming is one of 10 states that have not expanded Medicaid to cover more low-income residents, which could be a factor in that uptick, Gilliard said.

Donations come from all 50 states, with the majority from people who find the program online or through word of mouth. Sometimes donors tuck handwritten notes inside the packages about the high cost of medication or memories of a relative who died.

Gilliard saves each one and tacks them to the pharmacy wall.

Wyomings program, with its central state-run pharmacy that receives, processes, and mails prescriptions to residents, could be a model for Colorado, said Gina Moore, a pharmacist and senior associate dean at the University of Colorados Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Aurora. Moore co-authored a task force report for the state government last December about the feasibility of a drug donation program.

The report noted the success of programs with external funding, which, in Wyomings case, comes directly from taxpayer dollars. Using Wyomings budget, it projected a Colorado drug donation program would cost an estimated $431,000 in the first year, with a pharmacist and pharmacy technician serving roughly 1,500 patients.

Pharmacist Frieda Martin of Open Bible Clinic and Pharmacy in Colorado Springs, Colo., turned unused prescription donations into 1,900 filled prescriptions for 200 low-income and uninsured adults last year.

In Colorado Springs, Martin and her husband, Jeff Martin, who is the executive director of Open Bible Medical Clinic and Pharmacy, believe a charitable, volunteer-run model like theirs would be feasible for Colorado, and they wonder how their long-running pharmacy will fit in with potential state-run efforts. In the task force report, Moore and her colleagues write that the state-run model and the Martins program could coexist.

Since Colorado enacted a law to allow drug donation in 2005, it has been amended several times in attempts to help it grow. But the state has not invested money or infrastructure to make a drug donation program take off.

Drug donations mailed to Open Bible dwindled during the pandemic and are only now slowly rebounding. The pharmacy ships roughly half of all donated medications to clinics across Colorado that serve uninsured and low-income patients in other cities such as Denver, Loveland, and Longmont.

Elsewhere in the U.S., SIRUM ensures that donors have packaging to ship donated medications, and it provides software to make inventorying and dispensing easier. Recently, it built a live online inventory of medications for Good Pill, a nonprofit pharmacy that mails 90-day prescriptions for about $6 to residents of Illinois and Georgia.

SIRUM helps facilitate donations for Californias Better Health Pharmacy, which has dispensed medications to 15,000 Santa Clara County residents since opening in 2015, Le said. Many are uninsured, underinsured, and speak Spanish or Vietnamese. Ten volunteers, often students, help log donations, and Better Health Pharmacy fills roughly 40,000 prescriptions a year with annual operating costs of just over $1 million, according to Le and Santa Clara County public health officials.

Besides prescriptions, Better Health Pharmacy provides free COVID-19 antigen tests and flu vaccinations to address its communitys needs. We try to come up with creative solutions to expand the scope of our services, Le said.

This commitment to addressing gaps in health care access and reducing impact on the environment means the timing is right for expansion of drug donation programs in California and beyond, said Monika Roy, assistant health officer and communicable disease controller at Santa Clara Countys Public Health Department.

During the pandemic, inequities in access to care were magnified, Roy said. When we have solutions like these, its a step forward to address both equity and climate change in the same model.

KFF Health News, formerly known as Kaiser Health News, is a nonprofit news service covering health issues. It is an editorially independent program of the Kaiser Family Foundation, which is not affiliated with Kaiser Permanente.
I had a conversation last week with a gentleman who said that in recent weeks he had seen two cars with Refugees Welcome bumper stickers whose drivers were flipping off cars with California license plates.

He expressed his dismay that these drivers would welcome refugees but not welcome people bringing in a ton of money to the state.

My first thought, which I didnt express out loud, was that at least the refugees arent coming here to close down our libraries.

People like Phil Reynolds, who led an effort to dissolve the Meridian Library District over imagined fears of pornography.

Hes a formerly elected member of the Santa Clara Republican Party Central Committee in San Jose, California, who posted on Jan. 6, 2021, on social media, The war has begun! Citizens take arms! FREEDOM SHALL PREVAIL!!! WE MUST DEFEND OUR CONSTITUTION TO THE DEATH! just as a mob of Donald Trump supporters were storming the U.S. Capitol.

Last week, we learned that former Californian and now Nampa resident Theo Hanson, 54, had become the seventh Idahoan charged on suspicion of participating in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot.

Reynolds and Hanson are among the thousands of people who have moved from the Golden State to Idaho in recent years, contributing to a trend that Bill Bishop documented in his book, The Big Sort, showing how Americans are sorting themselves into politically and culturally homogeneous communities.

Its a trend that became clear last week when the Idaho Secretary of States Office released a data visualization showing the party affiliation of people moving into Idaho, as first reported by Clark Corbin of the Idaho Capital Sun.

In short, Republicans represent the vast majority of newcomers to Idaho. Its something weve known for a while, but the secretary of states data illustrate it in stark detail.

Of the 118,702 Idaho voters who moved here from other states since 2004, 77,136, or 65%, registered in Idaho as Republicans, while just 14,711, or 12%, registered as Democrats. Thats greater than the overall balance of 58% Republicans in the state.

California, in particular, is shedding Republicans fleeing to Idaho. The data show that of the 39,558 Idaho voters who moved here from California, 29,516 (75%) are Republicans. That compares with only 3,940 California voters, less than 1%, who moved here and registered as Democrats.

The myth that California liberals are moving to Idaho, which never really was true, has been busted again.

And its not just California. The data show that Republicans made up the majority of transplants from 48 of 49 states. Blue states, such as Washington and Oregon, are sending more Republican voters to Idaho than Democrats.

Theres nothing wrong with Republicans moving to Idaho, of course. Theres nothing wrong with moving to any state from any state. Theres nothing wrong with supporting Republican policies such as low taxes and a business-friendly climate. Thats what attracted me and my family to move here from New York in 2006.

But as we all know, the Republican Party has been taken over by Trump and his authoritarian, fascistic tendencies. Its a strain of the Republican Party thats evidenced in Idaho by book bans, an attempt to dissolve a library district, an Idaho teacher of the year leaving the state, chaos and dysfunction in a North Idaho school board and North Idaho College, infringements on womens rights and transgender rights, and attempts to limit voting based on unfounded conspiracy theories and Trumps Big Lie.

And now we have Idaho GOP witch hunts with so-called investigative committees seeking out politicians who dont pass the litmus test for far-right purity. The one in Idaho Falls is headed by Barbara Miller, a onetime California lawyer who ran for city council warning that Idaho could end up like California.

Im less concerned with what political party or what state newcomers come from. What Im more concerned with is the type of people who are moving here and whether theyve come here to change Idaho for the worse. Idaho has always had its share of extremists, but this new wave of extremism might tip the scales too far.

Far-right transplants from other states are helping extremists who were already here try to eradicate the sense of decency and concern for ordinary people that was once a feature of the governing center-right in Idaho.

Lets not let them destroy The Idaho Way.

Includes reporting by Idaho Statesman opinion writer Bryan Clark.
A Yuba County father was sentenced Friday to four years in prison after he repeatedly beat his wife for more than six minutes in an incident that was videotaped by the couples 9-year-old son, prosecutors said.

Miguel Lazaro-Castillo, 38, pleaded no contest to felony domestic violence, false imprisonment and a misdemeanor child abuse charge. His three children, ages 15, 14 and 9, were at home when deputies found Lazaro-Castillo sitting on his wife, surrounded by bloody tissues. Lazaro-Castilllo, his wife and a child were all intoxicated, a news release said from the Yuba County District Attorneys Office.

Lazaro-Castillo initially denied beating his when questioned by sheriffs deputies who were called by one of the children at about 2 a.m. Oct. 9, Yuba County prosecutors said.

Deputies then found the video. It showed one child trying to protect his mother before Lazaro-Castillo slapped the child on the leg and continued his assault, the news release said.

Despite Lazaro-Castillo not having a prior criminal record, he received the maximum sentence for felony domestic violence based on the brutality of his actions and his utter disregard for his children, prosecutors said in the news release.
A program to help fight obstetric racism in California is facing a lawsuit following the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that found affirmative action at college universities to be unconstitutional.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women are three to four times more likely to die in labor or from related complications than white women in the United States, and Abundant Birth Project provides monthly stipends to help Black and Pacific Islander moms receive proper medical care in San Francisco. However, conservative groups are suing the program, claiming it discriminates by providing grants based on race.

(Photo: Pexels / George Jr Kamau)

The Los Angeles Times reports that Ruth Parker and Ellen Lee Zhou from the Californians for Equal Rights Foundation filed the lawsuit last May to halt the illegal use of government resources and public funds to provide cash benefits to San Francisco residents on a discriminatory basis.

Most prominently, these government-sponsored and publicly funded programs are

designed to select beneficiaries on a racially exclusionary basis, reads the lawsuit. This is unconstitutional.

The lawsuit also targets guaranteed-income programs that help artists, Black young adults and transgender people, claiming the programs select beneficiaries on a racially exclusionary basis.

Abundant Birth Project was created in 2021 to reduce preterm birth to ensure that all children have a healthy start at life.

Black infants are twice as likely than white babies to be born prematurely and to die before they turn 1. Asian American infants are 40 percent more likely to die from complications during childbirth than white mothers, and Black and Native American women are three and two times higher, respectively, to have pregnancy-related deaths compared to white women.

One young mother and recipient of the program, 20-year-old Briana Jones, recalled being 15, terrified and crying out after experiencing extreme pain while giving birth to her first child in a San Francisco hospital and being told by a nurse to shut up, as she told KFF Health News. She later learned about the Abundant Birth Project and used the grant to get an apartment, drive to prenatal appointments and buy healthy food while pregnant with her second child.

Where I live, its nothing but struggle here, people trying to make ends meet, she said. For them to try to take this program away from us, its wrong.

California state awarded $5 million to expand the program to include four more counties for Black and Pacific Islander moms back in 2022. The Abundant Birth Project has provided 150 mothers up to $1,000 monthly for 12 months.

However, the Californians for Equal Rights Foundation and the law firm American Civil Rights Project in Dallas, Texas, claim that San Francisco and California are violating the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment  which was passed after the Civil War to give rights to formerly enslaved people  by providing grant money to Black and Pacific Islander women exclusively.

The executive director of the American Civil Rights Project, Dan Morenoff, told The Los Angeles Times that the Abundant Birth Project giving grants based on race is unconstitutional.

The city and county of San Francisco crafted the Abundant Birth Project with the express intention of picking beneficiaries based on race, said Morenoff. Its unconstitutional. They cant legally do it, and we are optimistic that the courts will not allow them to continue to do it.
(FOX40.COM)  The California State Capitol Holiday Tree lighting ceremony was scheduled to take place on Tuesday, but this has been postponed and it comes as a planned protest calling for a cease-fire in Gaza takes place at the same site.

The Sacramento Regional Coalition for Palestinian Rights said it will rally and march to the State Capitol to out Gov. Gavin Newsom for hiding from the public because he doesnt want to face their anger at his shameful stance in regard to the genocide in Gaza.

Holiday tree to be lit up at State Capitol

The California State Capitol Holiday Tree Lighting was originally planned to be in-person at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, however, the governors office recently reported the change to a virtual event on Wednesday. The office did not specify the reasons for the sudden move.

At the same time, a California Highway Patrol permit for a tree lighting ceremony set for Tuesday was withdrawn and replaced with a permit for a ceasefire in Gaza protest at 5 p.m.

Pro-Palestine protests interrupt holiday shopping at Arden Fair Mall Sacramento

Governor Newsom decided to cancel the tree lighting ceremony rather than face the public that is enraged by his shameful silence on the genocide in Gaza, said Yassar Dahbour, a member of the Sacramento Regional Coalition for Palestinian Rights.

Makeez Sawez of Youth for Palestine added, He (Newsom) is too concerned having public debates with others than to address the pain, anguish, and needs of Californians.

The pre-recorded virtual tree lighting ceremony is re-scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday on the governors social media accounts: Facebook, Twitter, YouTube.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40.
LONDON (Reuters) - Britain's foreign minister David Cameron will underline the importance of support and humanitarian funding for Ukraine during his first visit to Washington since he assumed his post last month, the UK foreign office said on Wednesday.

The former prime minister will travel to the United States to reaffirm both the strength of Britain's relationship with Washington and London's continued support for Ukraine against Russia's invasion.

The U.S. Congress has approved more than $110 billion for Ukraine since Russia's February 2022 invasion, but has not cleared any more funds since Republicans took control of the House from President Joe Biden's Democrats in January.

Last month, Cameron used his first trip abroad to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Kyiv.

"The Foreign Secretary has announced a new winter humanitarian response package of 29 million pounds ($36.52 million) for Ukraine and will bolster support with a further 7.75 million pounds ($9.76 million) for humanitarian activities," the foreign office said in a statement.

It comes as Britain is set to target military and foreign suppliers exporting equipment and parts to Russia, among dozens of individuals and groups, through a series of sanctions.

The foreign office said that in Washington Cameron would also discuss the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and getting humanitarian aid to those affected in Israeli-besieged Gaza.

We also stand united in the Middle East, working together to ensure long-term security and stability in the region, and in responding to the challenges posed by China, Cameron said.

Britain and the United States can work towards a long-term two-state solution which allows both Israel and the Palestinians can co-exist in peace, his office said.

($1 = 0.7941 pounds)

(Reporting by Farouq Suleiman; editing by Mark Heinrich)
Aerial photo taken on Nov. 3, 2021 shows electricity workers patrolling amid a photovoltaic and wind power generation project installed above the fishery waters in Sheyanghu Township of Baoying County of Yangzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

China, a crucial contributor to the global fight against climate change, has taken solid steps to advance the green shift in its economic and social development and achieved tangible results, official data revealed.



Three years ago, China made a solemn commitment to the world that it aims to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060.

Since then, the country has embarked on a fast track toward these goals, with highlights in areas including industrial upgrades, cleaner air, renewable energy capacity, and a world-leading position in solar panels, electric cars, and lithium battery production.

"China has always kept its promise and made important contributions to global climate governance," said Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang while addressing the World Climate Action Summit last week in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates.

Pro-green-growth policy

Citing a forecast that 2023 will be the hottest year on record in human history, a report published by the United Nations's World Meteorological Organization last week warned that 2023 marked a year of unprecedented climate records being shattered, as extreme weather events left behind a trail of widespread devastation and despair.



With a strong sense of urgency and duty, China, as it promised, has always been making consistent efforts to fight climate change and mitigate its effects.

Back in 2021, China unveiled an overarching document with a number of policies related to carbon peaking and neutrality, calling for "resolutely curbing the haphazard development of projects that are energy-intensive and have high emissions."

Subsequently, action plans for key areas such as construction materials and non-ferrous metals have been rolled out, detailing specific goals and roadmaps each sector should focus on to reduce the use of fossil fuels and embrace low-carbon production processes.

In November, the National Development and Reform Commission announced that 100 carbon-peaking pilot projects would be launched in 15 provincial regions to solve bottlenecks constraining the country's green and low-carbon development and explore paths toward carbon-peaking in different areas.

By 2025, a policy mechanism conducive to green and low-carbon development in the pilot areas will mostly be in place, together with many innovative practices and reform measures that are feasible and replicable, and can be applied elsewhere, the commission said.

By 2030, innovative practices and reform measures tested at these localities will then play a vital supportive role in carbon peaking at the national level.

Tangible progress

Initial results of industrial transformation have been achieved. Official data showed that China's crude steel output has declined by 40 million tonnes since the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025).



China's energy consumption per 10,000 yuan (about 1,408 U.S. dollars) of gross domestic product decreased by 0.1 percent in 2022 from 2021, while CO2 emissions per 10,000 yuan of GDP fell 0.8 percent year on year, according to an official statistical communique.

Reducing dependence on coal in its energy mix is another tough task for China, with concrete actions taken to increase its renewable energy generation.

China's installed capacity of renewable energy exceeded 1.3 billion kilowatts by the end of June this year, surpassing that of coal power for the first time, data from the National Energy Administration showed.

Only four months later, the figure topped 1.4 billion kilowatts, accounting for almost half of the country's total installed power generation capacity.

Building on the success of its domestic energy transition, China also plays a vital role in global renewables manufacturing.

It provides 50 percent of the world's wind equipment and as much as 80 percent of global photovoltaic equipment.

Solar batteries, lithium-ion batteries and electric vehicles have replaced apparel, home appliances and furniture to become the new "three major ones" underpinning China's exports.

Customs data showed that the total export value of the tech-intensive green trio jumped 41.7 percent year on year in the first three quarters of this year, providing key components for other countries' decarbonization drives.

International cooperation

In addition to reducing its own carbon emissions, China has vigorously promoted international cooperation on green development, energy revolution and climate change.



In Thailand, for example, a hydro-floating solar project was jointly built by China and Thailand in the Sirindhorn Dam and put into commercial operation in October 2021.

With a vast array of solar panels floating on the reservoir, the project generates electricity through solar energy during the day and hydroelectric power at night.

The installed capacity of the project reaches 58.5 megawatts, which can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 47,000 tonnes every year.

China has also arranged more than 1.2 billion yuan of South-to-South cooperation special funds to enhance developing countries' capacity to cope with climate change.

The country pledged to promote the establishment of a fair, reasonable, cooperative and win-win global climate governance system, Ding said in Dubai.

"As a major responsible developing country, China stands ready to work with all parties to build a clean and beautiful world," Ding said.
Its been nearly three weeks since UNC-Chapel Hill Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz confirmed he was weighing an opportunity to become the next president of Michigan State University, but theres still no answer from Guskiewicz on what he will decide: stay in Chapel Hill, his academic home for almost three decades, or take the job in East Lansing, Michigan.

The situation has left UNC faculty in a holding pattern as they wait to see what their universitys top leader will do  and who might be selected to replace him if he chooses to leave.

I think the news came as a shock to a lot of people, UNC Faculty Chair Beth Moracco told The News & Observer, adding that she received an immediate outpouring of inquiries from her fellow faculty members after the news broke of Guskiewiczs candidacy at MSU.

Moracco sent a letter on behalf of the faculty to Guskiewicz last week, expressing her personal, and the facultys collective, support for him in his current role.

Guskiewicz has led UNC through a turbulent four-plus years, taking the reins at the university in 2019 as it dealt with the aftermath of protesters pulling down Silent Sam, then guiding it through the pandemic and this semesters fatal on-campus shooting, among other events and controversies.

Even when faculty havent agreed with the decisions Guskiewicz made in those scenarios, Moracco said, she has been confident that he makes the decision that he thinks is best for the university.

Not all faculty share those sentiments about the chancellors tenure.

But many share similar worries about who might succeed him, either on an interim or permanent basis, and the process that will be used to select that person.

Theres lots and lots of speculation, but well just wait and see, Moracco said, and really hope that whatever process, and whenever we do engage in the process, for a new chancellor, that it is participatory.

Faculty opinions on Guskiewicz differ

For her part, Moracco said she would be very disappointed and would feel a lot of sorrow if Guskiewicz were to leave UNC.

Your love for Carolina and devotion to our passionately public mission inspires us all, Moracco wrote in her letter to the chancellor last week. And, while we respect your decision-making process and the many factors to be weighed, I join a multitude of faculty voices in saying that I fervently hope that you will remain at Carolina.

Michael Palm, president of the UNC chapter of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP), a national faculty group, noted that the chapter called for Guskiewicz to resign almost three years ago, citing serial dishonesty displayed by the chancellor and his associates  including the universitys handling of the Confederate monument Silent Sam and the COVID-19 pandemic  that they said led to a pattern of institutional dishonesty at the university.

Certainly my opinion is his leadership has not changed since then, Palm said of Guskiewicz.

Palm said the news of Guskiewicz potentially leaving the university, and the length of time it has taken for a final decision to be made, is frustrating  not necessarily because of the chancellors departure, but because of what might come next.

In recent years, the university has been the subject of criticism by faculty and others over perceived political overreach in actions such as the development of the School of Civic Life and Leadership this year.

In written answers Guskiewicz provided to questions from MSU faculty in mid-November  first answered anonymously, then reported by the universitys student newspaper, The State News, and since obtained by The N&O  Guskiewicz said he would only take the job at MSU without undue interference from the universitys governing board.

Palm said recent events, particularly those involving political interference, at UNC do not lead him to trust the search process that might unfold, nor its potential results.

I think there is a complete lack of confidence among faculty at UNC that the process will be transparent or ethical, Palm said.

UNC System president would name interim chancellor

In the event that Guskiewicz were to leave UNC, UNC System President Peter Hans intends to appoint a capable interim who can provide continuity as we prepare for a full search, system spokesperson Andy Wallace told The N&O by email.

Thats been the UNC Systems practice for a long time, Wallace said. Appointing interim leadership is considered part of the Presidents duties as the chief administrative and executive officer of the University.

Hans would eventually submit to the system Board of Governors a candidate to fill the role permanently, with input from a search committee he appoints. The Board of Governors voted earlier this year to revise its policy on chancellor searches, allowing BOG members to participate in searches and altering some authority of the system president in the process.

Wallace said the system expects a competitive search that will attract a wide range of great candidates from all over the country.

Several news reports, including from The Chronicle of Higher Education, have named potential candidates for the job on an interim or permanent basis. They include Lee Roberts, a current member of the Board of Governors and a former state budget director under Republican Gov. Pat McCrory, and current UNC provost Chris Clemens, among others.

There are a number of good candidates who could ensure a smooth transition while the University undertakes a full search for a permanent chancellor, Wallace said.

Roberts, an investor who does not have experience in academia or university administration, would be required to step down from his position on the Board of Governors in order to be appointed as an interim chancellor, according to UNC System policy.

He would be the second board member to do so for that reason in recent years.

Darrell Allison, now chancellor at Fayetteville State University, served on the board before resigning to be considered for the chancellorship. Upon being selected as chancellor in 2020, Allison said he followed protocol during the process and, when he knew he was leaning toward applying, he immediately stepped down from the board, The N&O reported.

Moracco said she thinks it would be difficult for someone without experience in higher education to serve as chancellor, though its not impossible.

Its hard for me to imagine, and the learning curve would be would be really steep, Moracco said. That doesnt mean that, you know, there arent things that someone from outside of academia would bring to that role that would be valuable. I just think itd be really difficult to have someone without any background in higher ed as a chancellor.

Wallace said feedback from faculty, board members, alumni, lawmakers and students will factor into any decisions about leadership at Carolina.

UNC Board of Trustees Chair John Preyer told The N&O the campus board would welcome the system president to come and talk to us in advance of making a decision, so that he can get the benefit of the perspective of our trustees and their take on things.

Faculty hope to give input on next chancellor

Moracco, as faculty chair, would likely be asked to serve on the committee to search for a new chancellor. In the two most recent searches  one at UNC Asheville that concluded last week and another at NC A&T State University that is currently underway  the respective faculty chairs at each of those schools were the sole faculty representatives on the search committees.

Moracco said she would gladly serve on the committee if she is asked. But said she would also want additional faculty to be actively engaged in the search process and able to give their perspectives on the characteristics and qualifications that they would like the next chancellor to possess.

I think all of thats going to be very important to build our confidence in the process and our trust in the results of the process, Moracco said.

UNC System chancellor searches are conducted in near-complete confidentiality. While members of the campus community may give input on the qualities they would like to see in their next chancellor, any person serving on the search committee or interacting with candidates is required to keep those names and interactions private.

Palm said he thinks the universitys next chancellor should, most importantly, advocate for students, faculty and staff.

And in the current political context of the state of North Carolina, that often means opposing the Board of Trustees, the Board of Governors and the state assembly, Palm said. And I think its important to have a chancellor whos willing to do that, and to do that publicly.
As cold waves hit northern China, the State Grid East Inner Mongolia Electric Power Company has been rolling out multiple measures to prepare for extreme cold weathers and ensure the power supply throughout the winter season for local residents.

To mitigate the impact of heavy snowfalls on power lines, the company has strengthened inspections of the power grid, focusing on identifying and addressing hazards.

Surging coal prices and other factors have prompted residents in Inner Mongolia to switch from coal to electricity for heating, leading to a sharp rise in electricity use during winter.

To better facilitate the demand for electrical heating, the company has established a green channel for the installation of electricity meters, with 95,000 meters checked and delivered.

With a time-of-use pricing policy put in place for electrical heating, the company has helped customers stagger the time to use heating devices to reduce electricity bills.

The company predicts that, by the end of 2023, the number of customers using electrical heating will reach 135,000.

Staff at the company have also paid home visits to check electricity safety.

"I had been worried about the wiring of the heating equipment in my house," said a resident surnamed Liu in Hongshan district, Chifeng city. "I did not expect the power workers would pay home visits without an appointment."
TEL AVIV  A meeting between the families of those still being held by Hamas and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus war Cabinet became chaotic as arguments erupted over the best way to free the remaining hostages, one participant told NBC News.

As Israel expands its assault on southern Gaza, tensions soared as attendees, including people who were recently freed by the militant group, disagreed with both the government and one another over the negotiations to free more of their loved ones, said the participant, who was not authorized to speak publicly about the meeting on Tuesday.

Less than 24 hours later, a group representing the families released a letter demanding that the government reach a deal for the immediate release of their family members, a sign of their mounting dismay at the apparent decision to prioritize the military campaign over their relatives well-being.

There were also heated debates over which hostages should be given priority for release  young women, the elderly or military aged men  the participant said, adding that, at one point, one family member held up an hourglass to emphasize that time is running out.

Image: ISRAEL-PALESTINIAN-CONFLICT (Menahem Kahana / AFP - Getty Images)

Recordings of the meeting leaked to multiple Israel media outlets and verified by NBC News captured the tensions in the room.

One woman, identified as a recently released hostage, said her husband, who is still being held in Gaza, was punching himself in the face because he could not stand the conditions he was living in.

Accusing the government of putting politics over the hostages return, her voice shaking, she said, All youre thinking about is collapsing Hamas, adding, Give them back whoever they want and bring everybody back.

In a separate recording, another freed hostage accused Netanyahu of playing roulette with their lives, as she called for the release of more Palestinian prisoners in order to free the remaining Israel hostages.

Hamas and other militants seized around 247 hostages during their deadly Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel, which left around 1,200 people dead. In return Israel pummeled the Gaza Strip, killing at least 15,000 people, many of them women and children, according to health authorities in the enclave, which is controlled by Hamas.

Throughout the military campaign, Netanyahu has been notably absent from public view as his military chiefs give daily news conferences. His poll ratings have also slumped as many blame him for failing to protect Israel from Hamas assault.

While a weeklong cease-fire led to the exchange of dozens of hostages held by Hamas for scores of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, fighting resumed after the truce gave way Friday, dealing a blow to the families of those remaining in captivity.

Smoke rises above buildings in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip on Dec. 5, 2023. (Mahmud Hams / AFP - Getty Images)

Ruby Chen, whose 19-year-old son, Itay, was working for the Israeli military when he was taken captive, attended Wednesdays meeting with Netanyahu and his war Cabinet.

Tensions were high, Chen, 55, said, adding that the Cabinet members told the families that the Israeli government had no one to negotiate with.

The Israeli government claims that we need to go back to the military option [and] wait until Hamas comes back to talk to us. I dont think thats correct, he said. I think that today, if you put an offer on the table, someone will listen.

He added that there was someone to negotiate with last week, so what has changed?

The only thing that has changed is that the Israeli war Cabinet has decided that it doesnt want to negotiate, for whatever reason, he said.

In a statement issued after the meeting, Netanyahu said he fully shared the deep concern of the families whose loved ones are still being held in Gaza. He added that the government is working to bring home all hostages, male and female soldiers, male and female civilians, young and old, everyone, without exception.

His statement appeared to pass little muster with the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum, a campaign group that has hosted news conferences, briefed journalists and met with President Joe Biden and other world leaders.

After the meeting the group released what it said were direct quotes from hostages at the meeting, although it did not attribute them directly to individuals. One said they thought they were going to die and wanted to be shot. Another told the group that Hamas shaved off all of dads body hair to humiliate him.

Then on Wednesday, the group sent a pointed letter to the Israeli war Cabinet.

It quoted professor Hagai Levine, doctor who is leading the forums medical team, as saying there was solid intelligence that there are hostages whose condition has deteriorated and who are now in immediate danger of life due to untreated injuries or illnesses.

Levine added that at least a third of the hostages have previous illnesses that require treatment, while others suffered serious injuries in the Oct. 7 attack, including gunshot wounds, amputations and shrapnel penetration.

After 61 days, the Israeli government says 138 hostages are still being held in Gaza, 20 of them women and 10 over the age of 75.

Asked if the Israeli government would consider offering rewards or amnesty if the groups holding hostages released them, government spokesman Eylon Levy rejected the idea, saying, Our strategy at the moment to get the hostages home is based on unrelenting military pressure on Hamas.

It was not the response Chen was hoping for, and he had a warning for his countrys leaders.

We are telling the Israeli government: You think you have a chance to stay in power? You start negotiating now, he said. Its not just that we dont have any time; the Israeli people that are behind the families will understand that theyre being played. The war Cabinet, each and every one of them, needs to understand.

Gabe Joselow reported from Tel Aviv, and Daniel Arkin from New York.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Ruby Little remembers when she began noticing shifts in her community: the new construction, the light rail running, the park being cleaned up.

From her modest Habitat for Humanity-built home on North Caldwell Street, the 67-year-old has watched her neighborhood evolve from working class to one that has become more gentrified  and more expensive.

Overall, I like it better. You cant stop it. People knew it was going to evolve and change, Little said, referring to policymakers. But as for her and her neighbors, she added, We just didnt know.

Just outside uptown Charlotte, the neighborhood was among the earliest projects by the Habitat Charlotte Region office that opened in 1983. While the affiliate mainly built homes in west Charlotte, in 1987 it hosted a Carter Work Project in Optimist Park. There 350 volunteers, including former President Jimmy Carter and the late First Lady Rosalynn Carter, built 14 homes in five days.

Those Optimist Park Habitat homes did not have deed restrictions on what were often 15- and 20-year mortgages. That meant a Habitat home purchased for an average of $35,000 can be sold for market rate at any time. Some Habitat homes that were set aside as affordable some 40 years ago have been resold by owners at market price  some upward of $300,000  staggeringly higher than their initial price.

That certainly benefited the homeowner, but it has made it difficult to keep the neighborhood affordable for future residents. In response, Habitat in 1992 began adding various restrictions and other clauses to its deeds.

Such restrictions are now placed on all new homes, most of which are 30-year mortgages. The restriction gives Habitat the first right to purchase the home if a homeowner wants to sell it, CEO Laura Belcher told The Charlotte Observer in an email. In 2016, Habitat added a clause that allows it to collect some of the appreciation if its sold before the 30-year mortgage is paid.

More than 3,000 volunteers are building 27 homes in this week for the 2023 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project in the Meadows at Plato Price development on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 in Charlotte, NC.

That hasnt happened much yet, Habitat says, because its a relatively new policy and Habitat homeowners tend to stay in their homes for a long time.

The owner must occupy the home and have no renters for Habitat to purchase it. When Habitat repurchases the home, it makes light repairs then resells the house to another Habitat income-qualified family  below 80% of area median income, keeping the home and neighborhood affordable.

The current tools protecting long-term affordability were not in place when Optimist Park was built in 1987, Belcher said. We have modified and adjusted our affordability clauses and deed restrictions to preserve more long-term affordability.

Consider Frank DuPonts home on Julia Maulden Place, built during the 1987 project. He sold it in 2022 for just under $300,000 and made a hefty profit on the $35,000 he paid for it. The home is appraised for more than $366,000, according to the Mecklenburg County tax assessors office records.

DuPont, 71, said selling the home had its pros and cons. He bought another house with cash and paid some debts.

Why would I want to move? DuPont said, while recalling how he loved being close to uptown. I could be at my church in about six minutes, right on the corner of Davidson and Ninth Street. I can walk to work, walk to my church, walk downtown, walk anywhere I want. I had no reason to move.

But DuPont felt with new people moving in with larger homes and planning a neighborhood association with new rules on how the front of a home should look, Optimist Park was no longer for him.

Ruby Little says she has no plans to move and hopes to pass wealth to her children when they inherit the home. Other former Habitat homes, including two on Julia Maulden Place and a few along North Caldwell Street, have been sold and replaced with bigger, more expensive homes, townhomes or duplexes.

One home, at 1608 Julia Maulden Place, sold to a family in 1989 for $38,400, according to county deed records. The county records show the family sold the property in 2020 to an investor. The home was razed in 2021 and at the time had an assessed value of $130,500. A new three-story townhome has been built on that same plot and sold in 2022 for $1.3 million, according to the county assessors records.

Charlotte Habitat has built some 1,500 homes since 1983. While the vast majority have deed restrictions, it is difficult to say how many have which provisions because the deed restrictions evolved over time, Belcher said.

Belcher added the longer a Habitat homeowner stays in their home, the greater share of the appreciation they can keep.

In October, a new generation of families began logging sweat equity in another part of the city as Habitat resumed construction on another major build  The Meadows at Plato Price. The site  where a former segregation-era school of the same name stood until 1966  was vacant until the 1980s when the city took it over, later donating it to Habitat.

More than 3,000 volunteers are building 27 homes in this week for the 2023 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project in the Meadows at Plato Price development on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 in Charlotte, NC.

Keea Carroll, a single mother with two teenage girls, was among those helping with the build. After living in an apartment for a decade, Carroll expects to move into a permanent home early next year.

The Observer spoke with Carroll, Little and her daughter Rachel, and DuPont about their experiences with Habitat-built homes.

Growing up Habitat

Rachel Little remembers the positives and negatives growing up in Optimist Park during the late 1980s. Her parents Ruby and Jimmy Little purchased a home in 1988 on North Caldwell with the help of the Habitat program and subsidies for $32,500, according to Mecklenburg County deed records.

The area was a former mill community, but it was close to uptown.

It was beautiful where they built right in the city. I know then they couldnt have (known) what it would be now but, it pretty much urbanized the area, the 37-year-old told the Charlotte Observer. We were the first set of houses. It kind of set the tone for the area, to be honest.

Because it was a Habitat community, families were sponsored by churches and other programs, Rachel Little said, noting she remembered being invited to a summer camp and other things.

On one side of her parents home, there was a warehouse. Big 18-wheeler trucks used to come in and out of the neighborhood. On the other side, nothing but open land. Across from the home was a set of high-rises and four other homes in front of them.

Rachel Little sits outdide her mothers home, which was built by Habiat for Humanity, on Thursday, November 2, 2023. On her street, all but one house built by Habitat, is still occupied by the original owner.

A variety of nationalities  Cambodians, Vietnamese and others  lived across the street from her parents, she said.

It was a mixed environment, but around us, it was predominantly white, Rachel Little said. We were like the group of Black people, the Black families, so to say.

Having Habitat created stability, Rachel Little said. She has worked an assortment of jobs, from school teacher to truck driver.

The vibe of the community was awesome, says Mark Davis, 60, who volunteered at a local Episcopalian church to help Habitat families during the 1990s. We used to walk around, from house to house, visiting people. We knew just about everybody on each block. It was awesome. Obviously, that has just changed.

Little recently moved back home to take better care of her mother, who is ailing. The second-generation homeowner says shes not phased by the rapid development happening around her beloved neighborhood and doesnt see it as gentrification. Habitat has always been there for her family and Mecklenburg County and the state help with tax relief programs to offset rising property values.

My parents and I feel like Habitat was just like the stepping stone ... that keeps on stepping, honestly, she said. Its not what happens, its what you do after its happened. Im grateful that some of these areas are finally getting lifted up.

I was speechless

After Frank DuPont moved into his Habitat home in 1987, he would spend many weekends working in his front yard. One time while puttering with a leaf blower, he saw two black cars circling the cul-de-sac near his corner lot at 19th Street and Julia Maulden Place.

He remembered not knowing anyone with those sleek cars  the kind hed seen in a motorcade. Must be going to another home, he mused. But the cars pulled up in front of him.

A driver came out and strolled around to open the back passenger side door.

And Rosalynn Carter (came) out. She started walking down the sidewalk, DuPont recalled. I knew her face, and I had to think for a minute: This is the Presidents wife coming to visit me?

It was one of several great moments DuPont and his wife, Diane, experienced while being Habitat homeowners.

The happy encounter with the late First Lady was not his first meeting with her. When the Carters came to build homes in 1987, the DuPonts and others worked alongside the couple, building the homes and their future. This time, the First Lady simply was checking in.

She said she was just stopping by and, hows the house coming along? and if I needed anything. I was speechless, he said.

DuPont said he really appreciated Habitat giving a young couple hope  especially since they had very little credit history, he said.

DuPont continued to help build homes for Habitat for the next 13 years, working as a site manager for the nonprofit.

Selling his home helped him financially, but it absolutely was not something he was planning to do.

He says Habitat could be more involved in the lives of homeowners after they purchase homes and check in on them, like Rosalynn Carter did. Perhaps the nonprofit could find a way to preserve the community as a Habitat neighborhood forever, so when new families move in, its still affordable, he said.

If man can send this spaceship up there, he said, referring to when he watched a NASA mission on television, surely man can figure out a way to save (the) Habitat for Humanity neighborhood. Put the effort into it.

What we are doing today aids in keeping homes affordable longer than when we began, Belcher said in an email.

More than 3,000 volunteers built 27 homes for the 2023 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project in the Meadows at Plato Price development the week of Oct. 2, 2023, in Charlotte.

Ive survived worse

It was denial No. 3 for Keea Carroll when her Habitat for Humanity application for a home was rejected last year. With her teenage daughters growing, plus juggling jobs and school, it was uncomfortable, again.

But Carroll was used to being uncomfortable.

Growing up in New York City, she never had a permanent home as her family moved around. She attended four high schools. She steered clear from ever making new friends, knowing she would be at a different school come the next fall.

As an adult, Carroll was running from an abusive relationship when she arrived in Charlotte more than a decade ago. She stayed at a relatives home. She worked two jobs and hustled to handle everything.

We slept on a mattress, that had no frame and was on the floor, she said.

Keea Carroll, left, and her daughters Neea Tucker, 15, center, and Leea Tucker, 14, pose outside the windows to their new home, built during a 27 home Habitat for Humanity build in early October. Carroll is one of a new generation of Habitat For Humanity homeowners and will be moving into the house in the beginning of next year.

A chance meeting with a neighbor led to connections with Charlotte Family Housing and the apartment she has lived in since 2012. But it was getting harder to manage things, with her daughters, now 14 and 15, needing more space.

Determined to persevere, Carroll, 39, finally is seeing some success. She received notice earlier this year that Habitat approved her application and now is among dozens of families getting new Habitat homes at The Meadows at Plato Price.

Ive been working so hard and as a single mother, its a struggle every day, to just get up and do the things that you need to do for your children, for yourself, she said. To actually have been accepted, I was like wow, if I just dont give up, thats it. I come from a strong mother, a strong line of women. And Im not gonna let it beat me. Ive survived worse.

Carroll has been logging sweat equity hours for the better part of a year to earn a plot. Besides the hours to help build the home, Carroll will also do volunteer hours at Habitats ReStore shop.

The resource is really nice because to me its (an) upscale Goodwill, in a sense, Carroll told The Charlotte Observer. People come in there and they bring furniture and they bring different stuff there, and you just go in and you help set the stuff up. You help customers and stuff, which is pretty simple.

Finding the three or four hours a week to do that was the greatest challenge. Because she is getting a brand new home, Carroll needed to earn at least 300 hours.

For me it really didnt matter, if it was refurbished or if it was brand new, I really didnt care, she said. I just wanted a home.

This story is part of I Cant Afford to Live Here, a collaborative reporting project focused on solutions to the affordable housing crisis in Charlotte. The Charlotte Observer is part of the Charlotte Journalism Collaborative (CJC), launched by the Solutions Journalism Network with funding from the Knight Foundation. The CJC strengthens the local news ecosystem and increases opportunities for engagement. It is supported by a combination of local and national grants and sponsorships. For more information, visit charlottejournalism.org.
This holiday season, the Charlotte Master Chorale is planning a Christmas concert that will not only honor the holiday, but also Gastonia native and Broadway performer T. Oliver Reid.

The concerts theme, Home, was designed specifically with Reid in mind.

We knew we wanted to bring in Timothy, and to bring him home, said the Chorales artistic director Kenny Potter.

Gaston County holds a special place in the heart of many involved with the Charlotte Master Chorale.

Potter grew up in Kings Mountain.

As an adult still working with music, Potter became an assistant choir director at Ashbrook High School, and worked with choirs at several other Gaston County schools.

According to Potter, the Chorales current managing director and assistant conductor Philip Biedenbender is also a former Ashbrook High School instructor.

Their connection with the county runs deep, as the two also previously worked as directors of the choir at First ARP Church in Gastonia.

Looking for the perfect opportunity to bring Reid into the concert, Potter and Biedenbender looked for the string that tied the three of them together, and that was Gaston County.

Reid graduated from Ashbrook High School in 1988, before heading to New York where he has since led a 25-year career on Broadway.

The theme, Home, came from a desire to bring Reid home.

(Biedenbender) and I worked together to come up with a theme that would marry bringing Timothy in, so we came up with home, Potter said. We thought that would be really beautiful.

"I'm excited about it, just to be able to come back to Gastonia and do any type of concert is a really special thing for me," Reid said. "Absolutely was my answer immediately."

The team is working to make the concert impactful for Gaston County students in a number of ways.

One thing (Reid) is going to be doing is hes going to be visiting high schools in the county, Potter said.

Before the concert, Reid will pay a visit to Ashbrook and Forestview high schools to answer student questions, share his story, and perform for those involved with theater, chorus, band or the arts.

Reid says he is excited to have the opportunity to connect with students from his home county.

"I had the great fortune of having fantastic music and theater teachers while I was in high school in Gaston County," Reid said, adding that he plans to, "make sure that young people who may have aspirations in the arts realize that there's room for them and space for them."

"You don't have to go to a big city or be from a big city in order to work in the arts," Reid said. "There is absolutely space for you."

According to the Chorale, Gaston County students and choral teachers are invited to attend the concert for free.

The concert is set to take place at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at First Baptist Church in Gastonia, located at 2650 Union Road. Tickets are available for those who are not Gaston County students or choral teachers at charlottemasterchorale.org.

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Charlotte Master Chorale to perform in Gastonia
Donald Trump revealed a trick up his sleeve to beat Joe Biden in the 2024 election: He thinks the president will die before it even happens.

Biden is the oldest president in U.S. history, and Republicans regularly use his age to argue that he is unfit to hold office. During a Tuesday night town hall, Fox News host Sean Hannity said Biden was struggling cognitively and asked Trump if Biden could still be the Democratic presidential nominee.

I personally dont think he makes it, Trump said to cheers from the audience. I think hes in bad shape physically.

Do you remember when he said, Id like to take him behind the barn? If he took me behind the barn and I went like this, Trump said, blowing air, I believe hed fall over.

I personally dont think he makes it. Trump says he doesnt believe President Biden will survive until the election. (Video: Fox News) pic.twitter.com/PCEd02nwvI  Mike Sington (@MikeSington) December 6, 2023

Trump is only about four years younger than Biden, but Biden has received far more questions about whether he is capable of being president. This is despite the fact that Trumps own slip-ups are growing increasingly common. For instance, in October, Trump mixed up Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

Bidens age is proving an issue with younger voters, but not necessarily because they believe he is mentally unfit. Instead, they worry that both Bidens and Trumps advanced ages prevent them from understanding young peoples perspectives on major issues.

This isnt the first time that a Republican has made a morbid and crass quip about Bidens age. In February, Colorado Representative Lauren Boebert delivered a sermon in Texas during which she appeared to joke about praying for Bidens death.

Joe Bidens president. We dont know what to do, Lord! Boebert said. Its all right, we pray for our presidents. You know, it says, Let his days be few and another take his office.
Former Rep. Liz Cheneys (R-Wyo.) highly anticipated memoir officially launched Tuesday and soared to the top of bestseller lists.

By midday Tuesday, Amazon marked it as temporarily out of stock, though it was still accepting orders.

The book clinched the No. 1 spot on the overall bestseller list of books on Amazon and topped three other categories on Amazon: Memoirs, Political Leader Biographies, Women in History.

Cheney has been on a media tour for her new book, Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning, which warns of the danger to democracy that a second term with former President Trump in the White House would bring. Trump is the leading GOP candidate for president in 2024.

The book also details the state of the Republican Party  especially in the lead up to the January 6 attack on the Capitol and the partys subsequent response.

In an interview with NBCs Savannah Guthrie on Today earlier this week, Cheney discussed the book, pledging to do whatever it takes to make sure that Donald Trump is defeated in 2024, not ruling out a potential third-party bid.

Hes already attempted to seize power, and he was stopped, thankfully, and for the good of the nation and the republic, she told Guthrie about Trump. But he said he will do it again. Hes expressed no remorse for what he did.

Cheney, a longtime conservative lawmaker who lost her reelection primary bid in 2022, added that there is a very, very real threat and concern that Trump would make himself a dictator if he wins the White House.

I dont say any of that lightly, she said. And frankly, its painful for me as someone who you know has spent their whole life in Republican politics, who grew up as Republican, to watch whats happening to my party, and to watch the extent to which Donald Trump himself has, you know, basically determined that that the only thing that matters is him his power, his success.

The book also provides new details about Trumps response to the Capitol riot. She recalled then-House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) telling her that he went to Mar-a-Lago after the attack because Trump was depressed and not eating.

Trump fought back against these allegations, in recent social media posts, saying he was not depressed, but angry, and that he, in fact, was eating a lot after the Capitol riot.

In a statement to The Hill, a spokesperson for the books publisher, Little, Brown and Company (LBC), praised the books initial success, writing, Cheneys book has generated historic demand and we are certain that additional copies will be available imminently.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) characterized former President Trump as projecting when he claims President Biden is the threat to democracy.

CNNs Anderson Cooper pressed Cheney, once a top-ranking House Republican, on what she would say to Republicans who believe Trumps claims that it is Biden, not him, who is a threat to democracy in an interview Tuesday. She told Cooper that an overwhelming majority of Republicans understand Trumps claims are disinformation.

Thats been sort of Trumps  method of operating. He knows that, Cheney said. It is a real threat to his political success if people recognize that, that he himself is trying to unravel democracy, and so I think hes projecting. Hes trying to turn that thread around, but I dont think itll work.

Trump argued that Biden posed a greater threat to democracy at a campaign event over the weekend in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The criticism of his likely Democratic opponent in the 2024 presidential election echoes the criticism often applied to Trump.

Joe Biden is not the defender of American democracy. Joe Biden is the destroyer of American democracy, Trump said. Its him and his people. Theyre the wreckers of the American dream. The American dream is dead with them in office.

Numerous media outlets published pieces Monday warning that a Trump presidency could slip toward a dictatorship and spell an end of U.S. democracy. Trumps allies defended the former president as the headlines came out Monday and dismissed the criticism as the medias latest attempt to target Trump.

Cheney has been on a media tour to promote her new book, Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning, which largely focuses on the current state of the Republican Party and the dangers Trump can pose if elected to the White House again.

Cheney ramped up her criticism of Trump in the months following the Jan. 6, 2021, attacks on the Capitol. She was one of the 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach Trump following the riot, and then served as the vice chair of the House select committee that investigated the Jan. 6 attacks.

She later lost her August 2022 primary to now-Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.) after becoming a frequent critic of the GOP and Trump.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Colorado woman wanted to celebrate her birthday with her family at a local Chilis restaurant  but the restaurant wouldnt take their order until they paid upfront, according to a new federal discrimination lawsuit.

The woman says she and her family were the only Black customers inside the Chilis in Denver on April 30, 2022, in a complaint filed Nov. 28 in Denver federal court.

After the woman, her husband and two children, a 6-year-old and a 9-year-old, were seated, a manager approached their table 10 minutes later, according to the complaint.

The Chilis manager demanded that (she) provide a valid form of payment upfront prior to taking her order if she wished to dine at the restaurant, the complaint says.

No other restaurant patrons were asked to provide payment upfront, according to the complaint, which accuses Chilis of refusing to serve the family based on their race.

Chilis justified the demand for payment by accusing the woman of skipping out on a previous meal  an unproven accusation the woman denies, the complaint says.

The restaurant never took the familys order that day, according to the complaint.

Now, the woman is suing Brinker International Inc., Chilis parent company, and accusing the company of violating her civil rights and racial discrimination, the complaint shows.

McClatchy News contacted Brinker International for comment on Dec. 6 and didnt receive an immediate response.

The Denver Post first reported the case.

In a statement to McClatchy News on Dec. 6, a Chilis spokesperson confirmed the company is aware of the lawsuit but declined to comment on it.

We value every Chilis Guest and take the responsibility of fostering an inclusive environment for all very seriously, the spokesperson told McClatchy News. We do not condone or tolerate discrimination of any kind, as the safety and well-being of our Team Members and Guests is a top priority.

The state issues a right to sue

The woman first filed a charge of discrimination against Chilis with Colorados Civil Rights Division, the complaint says.

After the division declared Chilis violated state discrimination laws based on the womans accusations, it issued her the right to file a lawsuit in August, according to the complaint.

After accusing the woman of not paying for meals, Chilis refused to back up the claims with evidence, the complaint says.

According to the suit, the woman asked a waiter who had previously served her if he accused her of not paying for prior meals. He told her no and that (she) and her family were frequent, loyal customers at Chilis who always paid their bills, the complaint says.

The incident left the woman frustrated, angry, embarrassed, and humiliated in front of her family and the other patrons of the restaurant, according to the complaint.

As of the date of filing this complaint, Chilis has been unable to provide a legitimate non-discriminatory reason that (the woman) ... was singled out, accused of theft, and denied service without a valid form of payment up front, the complaint says.

The woman seeks a trial by jury and requests the court to declare Chilis violated both federal and state law, the complaint shows.

She seeks to recover unspecified compensatory, nominal, economic, consequential and punitive damages and other forms of relief, according to the complaint.

The incident has caused (her) immense anxiety and fear that when she enters a store or restaurant, she will be falsely accused of shoplifting or thievery, solely due to her African American race, the complaint says. She is genuinely fearful that similar discrimination will occur to her and her children in the future based on their African American race.

In addition to Chilis, Brinker International also owns Maggianos Little Italy and Its Just Wings restaurant chains.

Dollar General fires woman for health reasons  pregnancy, feds say. Now it must pay

Florida worker wanted religious exemption from COVID shot. She was fired instead, feds say

Muslim woman forced to take off hijab for police mugshot or stay in jail, lawsuit says
A Long March 2C rocket carrying MISRSAT-2 and two other satellites lifts off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on Dec. 4, 2023 local time. .

China launched a remote-sensing satellite for Egypt late on Sunday (Dec. 3) as space cooperation between the two countries deepens.

A Long March 2C rocket lifted off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the Gobi Desert at 11:10 p.m. EST on Sunday (0410 GMT, or 12:10 p.m. Beijing time on Dec. 4), with insulation tiles falling from the rocket as it rose into the sky. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation confirmed launch success within an hour of liftoff.

The main payload was the MISRSAT-2 remote-sensing satellite for Egypt. The satellite will deliver imagery with a resolution of 6.5 feet (2 meters) per pixel in panchromatic mode, or visible light, and 26.2 feet (8 m) per pixel for multispectral images, which will focus on several specific bands.

Related: China launches 2nd Horus remote-sensing satellite for Egypt (video)

A Long March 2C rocket carrying MISRSAT-2 and two other satellites lifts off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on Dec. 4, 2023 local time.

The satellite will assist Egypt's work on land and resource utilization, water conservancy, agriculture and other fields, according to China National Space Administration (CNSA).

CNSA described the cooperative satellite project as a milestone for China-Egypt space cooperation. China provided Egyptian personnel with training in satellite design and final assembly test operations and supported Egypt in building a satellite assembly and test center as part of the international collaboration. China also conducted a pair of satellite launches for the African country earlier this year .

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Also aboard Sunday's launch were the Starpool 02-A and Starpool 02-B remote-sensing satellites, which were developed by the Chinese company Elliptical Space and Time (EllipSpace). All three satellites entered near-polar orbits.

The launch was Chinas 55th orbital mission of the year. It was also the 499th Long March launch to date, according to CASC. The first liftoff of the venerable rocket family took place in April 1970.
(Bloomberg) -- China said the Taliban government in Afghanistan should make major changes to its style of governance in order for Beijing to officially recognize it.

Most Read from Bloomberg

We expect Afghanistan to respond to the expectations of the international community and apply moderate policy, have friendly exchanges and engagement with regional countries and other countries in the world, and return back to the big family of the world as soon as possible, Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said at a regular briefing Tuesday in Beijing.

If those conditions were reached, it would be natural for China to recognize the government of Afghanistan, Wang said. China always believes that Afghanistan should not be excluded from the international community.

The comments mark a subtle shift in Chinas stance toward the Taliban because Beijing has previously said it wont interfere in Afghanistans affairs. Since ousting the US-backed government and taking power in 2021, Taliban-led Afghanistan has yet to gain full diplomatic recognition from any country largely because of its repressive policies toward women, including banning them from education and work.

A handful of nations, like China, Pakistan and Russia, have accepted Taliban diplomats in their countries even though they dont formally recognize the government. The Taliban also took control of Afghan diplomatic missions in India late last month.

Read: Taliban Gets Diplomatic Lift as China Envoy Presents Credentials

Beijing is building closer ties with the Taliban as it seeks to gain influence in the South Asian country after the US withdrawal. In September, China became the first nation whose ambassador presented diplomatic credentials to the Taliban. A subsidiary of China National Petroleum Corp. also signed an agreement with the Taliban to extract oil from the northern Amu Darya basin.

Afghanistan sent Alhaj Nooruddin Azizi, the minister of industry and commerce, to the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing in October. Chinese leader Xi Jinping used the event to woo emerging economies known as the Global South to his infrastructure initiative  and also make his case for challenging the US-led world order.

Azizi said his government wanted to prioritize investment from China in agriculture, mining and energy.

More: How New Taliban Crackdown Fits in Afghan Womens Saga: QuickTake

(Updates with more context.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
By Joe Cash

BEIJING (Reuters) - Chinese state media called Moody's "biased" on Wednesday for its negative rating outlook on the world's No. 2 economy, but some analysts said the government's official reaction was more restrained, signalling Beijing's own worries about surging debt.

Chinese officials often respond with aggressive statements to international scrutiny. After Moody's and S&P Global's previous outlook cuts in 2016, then finance minister Lou Jiwei slammed the ratings agencies as "biased" during a G20 meeting in Washington.

But in the official statement responding to Moody's move on Tuesday, the ministry only expressed "disappointment." On Wednesday, a foreign ministry spokesperson said China is capable of deepening reform and addressing its challenges, and that it welcomed "all friends" from "all over the world" to invest in its economy.

Alfred Wu, associate professor at the Lee Kwan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore, said that while Chinese propaganda still aimed to show strength to a domestic audience, the more nuanced tone from the government was targeted at the international community.

Wu said this was a sign that China takes on board global concerns about its weakening growth prospects and "wants to be seen as credible and responsible" in dealing with the issue.

"The discourse of China's rise was so strong in 2017. The sentiment has changed dramatically," Wu said.

"The finance ministry recognises this, and that it needs to come up with a more professional response than it did before."

While keeping China's sovereign rating at A1, Moody's cut its outlook to negative from stable, citing surging local debt and property market woes, conditions which many economists have warned are pushing the economy to Japan-like decades of stagnation.

Alicia Garcia Herrero, chief economist for Asia Pacific at Natixis, also said she was "expecting a very different reaction" from China.

"It was handled very smoothly," she said. "Once you take the decision that 'my deficit is going to be much bigger', there's no point reacting (to Moody's)."

The Communist Party's nationalist tabloid Global Times published an article citing economists as saying Moody's decision was "biased and unprofessional, as it grossly exaggerated or manufactured risks and challenges."

Moody's did not immediately respond to questions on Chinese media criticism and the official reaction.

Economic Daily, a state-run newspaper, also said Moody's took "biased" conclusions.

But the Global Times' former editor Hu Xijin, who remains a prominent Chinese commentator, wrote a blog post to praise the "restraint" in the finance ministry's response, saying the tone was "very commendable."

Hu said it was more important to boost "domestic confidence" than "devote energy to arguing whether this (Moody's move) is a 'conspiracy' or not," adding this could be achieved by strengthening China's post-pandemic recovery and resolving municipal debt and real estate risks.

"We can't expect an American rating company to find a way to convey confidence in China to the world. This work can only be done by China itself," Hu said.

(Reporting by Joe Cash; Editing by Shri Navaratnam)
As Southern Californians prepare for the holiday season, Christmas Grinches targeting Riverside County homes remain at large.

On Dec. 1 at around 4:30 a.m., Alexandra Falcons surveillance video caught at least two suspects trespassing on her property on Calle Vejar in Moreno Valley.

A group of guys were on my lawn and on my neighbors as well and they had unplugged from the extension chord on two of our inflatables, Falcon said.

The womans security cameras captured at least two people stealing large, pricey Christmas decorations from the homes on her street.

We had a singular reindeer, like a Rudolph reindeer, and then we had a Santa, Falcon said.

Video from Falcon and her neighbor across the street shows a man approaching Falcons home, then walking away. Minutes later, he returns to grab the holiday inflatables from her front lawn and calmly walks away.

Surveillance video captures two thieves stealing large, pricey Christmas decorations from a Moreno Valley neighborhood on Dec. 1, 2023. (Alexandra Falcon)

Surveillance video captures two thieves stealing large, pricey Christmas decorations from a Moreno Valley neighborhood on Dec. 1, 2023. (Alexandra Falcon)

Surveillance video captures two thieves stealing large, pricey Christmas decorations from a Moreno Valley neighborhood on Dec. 1, 2023. (Ashley Weaver)

Residents in a Moreno Valley neighborhood are upset after thieves stole large, pricey Christmas decorations from their front lawns on Dec. 1, 2023. (KTLA)

Surveillance video captures two thieves stealing large, pricey Christmas decorations from a Moreno Valley neighborhood on Dec. 1, 2023. (Ashley Weaver)

I was shocked, Falcon said. I was like, This cant be real.

Her next-door neighbors surveillance video shows the two suspects walking away while their hands are filled with stolen decorations.

Another neighbor who was also victimized said the theft, especially during the holidays, is upsetting.

It hurts, said Ashley Weaver, whose decorations were stolen. Its sad.

Weavers family is new to the neighborhood and has only lived on the street for five months.

We love Christmas and having a kid makes it even better, Weaver said.

She said decorating for the holiday season with her 10-month-old son was a special time. She invested in a giant LED inflatable of Santa and a reindeer.

After the thieves stole her inflatable, Weaver decided to remove another large decoration she had  an 8-foot holiday lamp post  into her garage for safety.

It just sucks, she said. Buy your own stuff. Let people have their Christmas and show their Christmas spirit in their own way.

Neighbors on the street remain concerned and angry at the targeted theft.

People work hard for these things, Weaver said. Theyre not cheap.

For Falcon, she has since purchased a new lawn decoration and said she refuses to let the thieves take the fun out of her holiday festivities.

Were going to get past this, Falcon said. Were going to put up another one.

The victims said theyve been monitoring resale sites to see if the suspects will attempt to sell the stolen decorations.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A U.S. Senate panel is raising concerns about Citizens ability to pay out claims after climate disasters and whether the company, Floridas property insurer of last resort, will need a federal bailout.

At the Citizens Board of Governors meeting on Wednesday, CEO Tim Cerio provided insight on the health of the company and slammed claims it will need a federal bailout.

He said Citizens has never asked for a federal bailout, and hes concerned the Senate investigation is causing unwarranted panic among policyholders.

More than 25,000 Citizens insurance buyout offers rescinded in October

Last week, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse launched an investigation into Citizens. The Rhode Island Democrat told 8 On Your Side the company has small reserves and a large number of policies, a combo he fears puts taxpayers on the hook for bailing out the state-backed company.

By law, if Citizens runs out of money theyre allowed to levy an assessmentor a special surchargeon all Floridians.

If the assessment is so big that its uncollectable then that pushes this problem beyond Florida, Sen. Whitehouse said.

Cerio pushed back against that claim during the meeting on Wednesday.

Citizens always has the ability to pay claims. We are in a strong financial condition and we have our statutory surcharge and assessment mandate if reserves are exhausted, so claims will always be made, he said.

Cerio also questioned concerns about American taxpayers potentially being on the hook.

Ive never heard of anyone suggesting the idea of a federal bailout until the Senate Budget Committees letter was published, he said. It is a hypothetical which I think demonstrates again a misunderstanding of our structure.

Since Florida lawmakers overhauled the property insurance market, Cerio says there have been positive changes.

Florida Democrat to introduce amendment to stop lawmakers insurance venture

This year, Floridas Office of Insurance Regulation approved the entrance of six new insurers into the state.

Across the board, frivolous litigation is down. Specifically for Citizens, Cerio said, 20% fewer cases are going to court this year, as compared to last.

The company is also reducing its exposure, getting smaller, so-called depopulating. This year, more than 220,000 Citizens customers were transferred to the private market.

Citizens spokesman Michael Peltier said more offers will be in the mail soon.

The depopulation program is most popular in the winter months, December, January, February, he said. Over the next two or three months, well see some interest and then itll probably die out until next fall.

If you get a message from Citizens, open your letter.

Thats the major takeaway for Citizens customers.

Right now, private insurance companies are looking at the Citizens portfolio and picking out who they want. Over the next three months, there will be three more rounds of depopulation.

If you have a question, tip or comment, email Mahsa at MSaeidi@WFLA.com

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
SAN DIEGO  San Diego City Attorney Mara Elliot filed a civil enforcement complaint against the owners of an apartment complex near the University of San Diego after allegedly leasing out units to students despite receiving dozens of building code and safety violations.

The 13-page complaint, which was filed with the County Superior Court on Monday, details months-long efforts by city officials to get the owners of a 14-unit complex known as The Carl on Lauretta to address issues that prosecutors say made the building unsafe and unready for tenants.

According to the complaint, The Carl allegedly leased out the units to college students before having an operating fire protection system and elevator. Prosecutors also say the city had not issued the complex a certificate of occupancy, which is required under local law to rent out units.

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Students and parents, desperate to find safe and convenient housing before the school year started, were charged exorbitant rent to move into a building that lacked a working fire emergency system, Elliot said of the complaint in a release on Monday.

As the mother of a college student, I am particularly appalled that anyone would put the lives of our young people at risk to increase their profits, she said. We will hold these building owners accountable for cutting corners on our childrens safety.

Construction to the four-story building started at 1211 Mollie St. by Crawford Design & Development in April 2022, after a single-family home previously on the site was demolished.

During roughly year-long construction, prosecutors say that Development Services Department (DSD) inspectors completed 83 checks of the property to ensure that the work being done complied with local and state standards. The complaint alleges that only seven passed inspection, indicating that the building was not ready for occupancy.

Despite that, prosecutors allege that Crawford Design and the landlord, HUGS International Corporation, began advertising available units over the summer, later entering into agreements with tenants in August.

In the months after, the complaint says that city staff from DSD, San Diego Fire-Rescue and the Building and Land Use Enforcement Division continued to inspect the premises, allegedly confirming the presence of violations and unlawful occupants.

From August to November, these inspections led to the issuance of 42 citations  each with a $1,000 fine  for building code violations, according to the complaint.

The violations notified the building owners that the units had to be immediately vacated until the certificate of occupancy had been issued by the city and all required inspections had been passed. Prosecutors allege this did not happen.

By failing to comply with the citys directions, prosecutors allege the building was blatantly and willfully in violation of local and state law, and its owners were unlawfully using the property to profit by collecting rents and receiving income from leasing it.

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Property owners should be on notice that the City Attorneys Office will not look the other way while they endanger occupants lives, and especially not the young lives of our communitys college students, Elliot continued. That is why we have taken this action today, and we are confident that the Court will help us make these college students whole.

According to Elliots office, a working fire system has since been added to the building, so the city is no longer seeking immediate vacancy of the building. Instead, prosecutors are asking the court for thousands in civil penalties and the reimbursement of any money or property acquired through these violations.

FOX 5 has reached out to Crawford Design and HUGS International Corporation for comment on the complaint, but did not immediately hear back.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  If youve lived in Memphis a few months or several years, you know there is an ongoing debate about what to do with Mud Island River Park.

Tuesday, Memphis City Council members quizzed representatives with the Memphis River Parks Partnership, the organization managing the citys riverfront parks, about why money they earmarked for improvements is apparently still on the shelf.

MRPP is requesting city council move $3 million the city set aside two years ago for Mud Island, for use in the budget for Tom Lee Park, which recently underwent a $60 million renovation.

Id like to know why the money was just sitting there and not used for a long time, asked Councilmember Rhonda Logan.

MRPP wants to use $3M in Mud Island money for Tom Lee Park

We got about $5.1 million in those two budgets, and weve spent almost all of that without a general contractor, and weve saved money on each project, said Carol Coletta, President and CEO of MRPP.

The MRPP says they have addressed safety, cosmetic improvements, and have been negotiating with both short-term and long-term users about the future of Mud Island along with its amphitheater and monorail.

The monorail for some perspective tenants weve negotiated with is important. Others, its like, No, we dont need the monorail. We dont want the monorail,' Coletta said. Operators of the amphitheaters are like, We dont want to facility back in 1982 condition. We want to bring it up to standard for an amphitheater today.'

But with questions over money, Councilman Martavius Jones presented a resolution to reallocate $3 million in capital improvement plan funds for Mud Island Construction to other city projects such as fire station improvement, the Memphis parks and City Hall renovations.

Riverside Drive to reopen on weekends

Were at 18 months, and is there any type of expectation for a short term, long term? We had a presentation of a zip line company coming in to do something and possibility of it, and we could possibly use it to get it up and running to facilitate that, Jones said.

Weve got more needs right now on the island, but also, we want to continue to be judicious and how we spend the funds, Coletta said.

Councilmembers decided Tuesday to put a hold on their discussion about the resolution calling for the reallocation of money for Mud Island and tackle it in a couple of weeks.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
A Springfield man will 20 years in prison for federal and local crimes targeting the Haitian community.

Izaye Eubanks, 22, pleaded guilty in August to hate crimes against at least eight Haitian nationals, according to a media release by the Department of Justice.

Attacks like these, where a group of individuals is singled out and targeted for violent assaultive conduct because of who they are, will not be tolerated, The Justice Department will continue to enforce our federal criminal civil rights laws and prosecute those who commit violent, bias-motivated crimes in our country, Kristen Clarke of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division said.

In January and February Eubanks committed various assaults, robbers, and carjacking of Hatiaian individuals because of the victims actual or perceived nationality, according to court documents.

He would travel through Springfield looking for people he believed were from Haiti and attack them.

>> Local county hosts first driver education course for Haitian Creole drivers

On Jan. 29, Eubanks attacked and robbed a victim while they were walking to wire cash to their mother in Haiti.

He punched the victim in the back of the head and neck, causing him to briefly black out, then robbed the victim, according to court documents.

On the same day, Eubanks also assaulted a victim as he left Friendlys Bankery, a Haitian market.

On Feb. 1, Eubanks directed juveniles to help him complete four separate attacks on five victims.

Eubanks will serve his federal sentence concurrently to the one imposed in Clark County Court of Common Pleas, according to the DOJ.

He pleaded guilty to five counts of second degree felonious robbery in his local case.

He will serve four years in prison for each robbery count concurrently with federal imprisonment.




A classified briefing Tuesday on Ukraine devolved into a shouting match about border security as senators described a tense meeting that did little to break the Senates stalemate over whether to include tighter immigration policies in the aid package.

The meeting came as Republican senators have warned they are prepared to vote against advancing a more than $100 billion supplemental national security package unless it includes major border policy changes, casting doubt on whether the aid will pass this year.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer gave his description of what unfolded and said the fight over the border erupted when Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican from Kentucky, asked GOP Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma to present on the border instead of asking a question about Ukraine to the briefers.

It was immediately hijacked by Leader McConnell. The first question instead of asking our panelists, he called on Lankford to give a five-minute talk about the negotiations on border, Schumer said. Then when I brought up the fact that they could do an amendment and have the ability to get something done on border, they got stuck  they didnt like it.

Schumer added, Even one of them was disrespectful and started screaming at one of the generals and challenging him to why they didnt go to the border.

A source in the room told CNN that Arkansas Republican Sen. Tom Cotton was shouting.

Pressed if he was among those who yelled, Cotton said, I did not let Chuck Schumer get away with lying that Republicans have injected border security into a debate about the supplemental bill and it was Joe Biden who  sent us the supplemental bill with border provisions in it.

He had the misfortune of spreading those lies right after someone handed me a microphone, Cotton added of Schumer.

Cotton also said the briefers refused to answer any questions about the crisis at the border or what we can do to solve that crisis even though the briefing was labeled by Chuck Schumers office as a briefing about the supplemental.

A spokesperson for Cotton said that the senator directed his fire at Schumer  not a general in attendance or an administration briefer.

GOP Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina said that there was tension early on in the room because nobody talked about the border.

In case you dont have a television  you would know that most Republicans feel like we need to address the broken border, he said.

Lankford, one of the lead negotiators on the border policy measures for the national security package, told CNN that the lack of anyone from the Department of Homeland Security at the briefing was an elephant in the room.

There was no one there from DHS, Lankford said. It was just obvious, elephant in the room issue of the administration, in their supplemental request  the second-largest element in the supplemental request is for the border. And we had no one there from DHS, and there was apparently no one interested in actually talking about that even.

Republican senators blasted the briefing as a waste of time as they argued briefers were not going over information that wasnt already known or available publicly. Some Republicans even walked out early.

People got up and walked out because this is a waste of time.  They just said This isnt worth it, this is a joke, youre not serious about this, Im going. And I dont blame them, said Sen. Kevin Cramer, a Republican from North Dakota. It was more dramatic because youve got an entire political party that appears  willing to flush support for Ukraine and Israel down the drain because theyd rather have a wide-open border than support for Ukraine and Israel.

Republican Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah blasted the briefing as a waste of time.

We want to help Ukraine and Israel, but we have got to have the Democrats recognize that the trade here, the deal is we stop the open border, Romney said. They dont want to do that. So Republicans are just walking out of the briefing because the people there are not willing to actually discuss what it takes to get a deal done.

Sen. Roger Marshall, a Republican from Kansas, said that his GOP colleagues wanted to focus more on the border during the briefing and were frustrated with the lack of conversation on the topic.

I cannot control (Russian President Vladimir) Putin. I cannot (control) what (Ukrainian President Volodymyr) Zelensky is going to do or not do. But we can control our southern border. So lets control the things that we can control, Marshall said.

Schumer is planning to move ahead Wednesday with a procedural vote on the presidents supplemental package despite the fact Republicans have vowed to vote against its advancement. Schumer said earlier Tuesday that Republicans are free to bring up a border security package as an amendment, and if it can get 11 Democratic votes, it can pass.

They have a golden opportunity if they wanted to do border, Schumer said.

In addition, Zelensky never made his promised appearance by video feed, and several senators say they were not given an explanation as to why he didnt attend.

Sen. Mark Warner, a Democrat from Virginia, told reporters after the briefing that feelings are running high.

Feelings are running high, but were at an historic moment, Warner said. The intelligence assessments have said for months now that Putin thinks he can out-wait the West and out-wait America, and what I dont understand from some of my friends, are we willing to prove him right, and the historic consequences of abandoning Ukraine at this moment in time would haunt this country for decades. Who would ever trust our alliances again? I hope we can all take a deep breath.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The Colorado Supreme Court is set to hear oral arguments Wednesday afternoon in a closely watched case about whether the US Constitutions ban on insurrectionists from holding office applies to former President Donald Trump.

This is one of several 14th Amendment challenges against Trumps candidacy, which so far have failed to remove him from a single ballot. Legal experts from both sides expect that one of these cases will ultimately reach the US Supreme Court, which could settle the issue before the Republican primaries begin with the Iowa caucuses in January.

After a weeklong bench trial last month, Colorado District Judge Sarah Wallace ruled that Trump engaged in an insurrection on January 6, 2021, and acted with the specific intent to incite political violence.

But she concluded that the insurrectionist ban doesnt apply to the presidency, based on the text of the post-Civil War constitutional amendment.

The provision says officials who take an oath to support the Constitution are disqualified from office if they engaged in insurrection. It explicitly prohibits them from serving as senators, representatives and other offices  but it doesnt mention the presidency.

The anti-Trump challengers appealed Wallaces conclusion that the ban doesnt apply to the presidency. Trump appealed many of the other findings in Wallaces stunning 102-page ruling. Both sides will present arguments at Wednesdays two-hour hearing.

All seven justices on Colorados high court were appointed by Democratic governors.

The hearing in Denver is scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. ET.

Both sides make their case

Lawyers for the challengers, who are Republican and independent Colorado voters, told the court in a filing that there is overwhelming historical consensus that the provision known as Section 3 of the 14th Amendment disqualified rebels from the Presidency.

Both supporters and opponents of the Fourteenth Amendment understood that, they said in a filing, referring to the 1860s congressional debate over the amendment. Trump does not cite a single person at the time who argued against this common-sense conclusion, and no amount of creative nay-saying by lawyers and academics 150 years later can refute it.

Trumps attorneys asked the Colorado Supreme Court to uphold Wallaces final decision to keep Trump on the states ballots, but pressed the court to overturn her other findings, which they argued contained multiple grave jurisdictional and legal errors.

They argued that this proceeding should never have gone forward because Colorado courts arent authorized to adjudicate federal constitutional disputes. Further, they claimed Trump cant be disqualified because there was no insurrection on January 6.

GOP attorneys general groups weigh in

Before the hearing, a flurry of outside groups and lawyers tried to weigh in on the case.

A coalition of 19 state attorneys general, all Republicans, urged the court to keep Trump on the ballot by determining that the challengers couldnt file the suit in the first place. Wallace had ruled that the challengers, a group of Colorado voters, had standing to sue.

Many of these GOP attorneys general also supported the unsuccessful Supreme Court lawsuit that Texas filed in 2020 to overturn the results in four states that Trump lost.

A group of First Amendment experts argued that Trumps remarks at his January 6 rally were so threatening that they werent protected by his constitutional free-speech rights, and told the Colorado Supreme Court to uphold Wallaces decision to that effect.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The question of former President Trumps eligibility to appear on the 2024 ballot comes before the Colorado Supreme Court on Wednesday.

The proceedings will be available to view via streaming media at this site.

Both Trump and a citizens group that filed the opposition in a lower court appealed an earlier decision that essentially ruled in favor of the former president.

The judgment, issued last week, found that Trumps actions ahead of the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riots constituted insurrection. But the court also stated that a post-Civil War provision against insurrectionists holding office did not apply to the presidency.

Wednesdays hearing is expected to begin at 3 p.m. EST.

Watch the live video above.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Tourists visit Badachu Park decorated with red lanterns in Beijing, China, Oct. 2, 2019. [Photo /Xinhua]

The book "Xi Jinping on Respecting and Protecting Human Rights" has a comprehensive review of President Xi Jinping's approach to respecting and protecting human rights. The book also provides important insights into how China plays an active role in promoting human rights within the framework of global governance.

Fully aware of its status as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, and a member of the Human Rights Council, China has attached equal importance to human rights initiatives both at home and abroad. This strategy speaks volumes about how contemporary China commits itself to human rights. In his congratulatory letter to Beijing Forum on Human Rights held on Sept. 16, 2015, President Xi Jinping explained China's two "firm commitments", that is, firm commitment to the path of peaceful development, and firm commitment to promoting human rights in the country and in other parts of the world.

The world today is undergoing profound changes unseen in centuries. On the one hand, technological and scientific advancements, and sophisticated transportation and communications network give a strong impetus to economic and social development, creating unprecedented opportunities for the promotion of human rights worldwide. On the other hand, pressures and challenges take on new forms, posing unprecedented risks and challenges for mankind. President Xi Jinping remarked that human rights are the quintessential feature of the progress of human civilization. Therefore, how to maintain and nurture momentum and commitment to human rights merits worldwide attention.

Active participation in promoting human rights within the framework of global governance embodies an important approach and major milestone for China to achieve human rights-based development. In the book "Xi Jinping on Respecting and Protecting Human Rights", President Xi Jinping illustrated four points.

First, countries around the world should practice true multilateralism, and safeguard the international system with the United Nations at its core and the international order underpinned by international law.

In his speech at the general debate of the United Nations General Assembly on Sept. 21, 2021, Xi said, "...we must improve global governance and practice true multilateralism. In the world, there is only one international system, i.e. the international system with the United Nations at its core. There is only one international order, i.e. the international order underpinned by international law." He also stressed the importance of the UN to "advance, in a balanced manner, work in all the three areas of security, development and human rights."

The fact that China has been elected to the Human Rights Council by a large number of votes is a testament to the recognition of most countries for China's achievements in promoting domestic human rights, and to the expectation that China will play a greater role in the international arena.

Second, all countries should emphasize the importance of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and create a virtuous cycle where cooperation, development and human rights reinforce one another.

China is the first developing country to realize the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), contributing over 70% to global poverty reduction. While managing its own affairs well, China is also an active player in driving global economic growth. An advocate and practitioner of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, China highly values the formulation and implementation of the United Nations development agenda.

On Dec. 4, 2016, in his congratulatory letter to the International Symposium on the 30th Anniversary of the Adoption of the United Nations, President Xi Jinping remarked: "China hopes the international society, with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as a new starting point, will strive to realize common development as it navigates a fair, open, comprehensive and innovative path."

China's constructive stance in promoting human rights is shown in its readiness to engage in dialogue and cooperation, and to build a strong foundation for development. In 2013, President Xi Jinping proposed the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Welcomed as a global public good, the BRI attributes its origination to China, and brings benefits to the whole world.

China has aligned its domestic affairs with foreign ones. In the domestic context, there is a general consensus that only development can make a difference. In dealing with international community, China has, as the UN has done, put development front and center, and promoted peace, development and human rights.

Third, China has devoted serious energy to the development of developing countries and South-South cooperation.

Being the largest developing country itself, China faces the same or similar task with other developing countries along the path to survive and thrive through economic and social development. In fact, a basic principle in China's foreign policy is to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with third world countries.

On Jan. 25, 2021, in his special address at the World Economic Forum Virtual Event of the Davos Agenda, President Xi Jinping stressed the need to "close the divide between developed and developing countries and jointly bring about growth and prosperity for all." He said: "...with the growth of developing countries, global prosperity and stability will be put on a more solid footing, and developed countries will stand to benefit from such growth. The international community should keep its eyes on the long run, honor its commitment, and provide necessary support to developing countries and safeguard their legitimate development interests."

Fourth, every country should uphold the common values of humanity, playing an active role in the building of a global community of shared future.

The world we live in today is fraught with challenges which are so many that no country can address alone. This is the very logic behind President Xi Jinping's proposition to build a global community of shared future. Facts have shown that this proposition is well-evidenced and future-directed, since it describes the nature of the international community and its future trajectory.

Thanks to China's efforts, the United Nations Security Council, the Economic and Social Council and the Human Rights Council have included the concept of building a global community of shared future in a number of resolutions, making it an increasingly significant component in international human rights discourse. The international community has achieved the consensus that human rights should be respected and protected, and that solidarity and cooperation should be strengthened. Promoting human rights within the framework of global governance is anchored in the common values of peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy and freedom illuminated by President Xi Jinping, and in the building of a global community of shared future.

Liu Huawen is executive director and researcher at Human Rights Research Center of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.
By Andrew Goudsward

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Colorado's highest court heard arguments on Wednesday on whether the U.S. Constitution allows former President Donald Trump to be disqualified from the states ballot next year over his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Justices on the Colorado Supreme Court focused much of their questioning on whether a constitutional amendment passed after the Civil War that bars public officials from holding federal office if they have engaged in "insurrection" applies to U.S. presidents.

A group of Colorado voters, backed by the watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, are challenging Trumps eligibility to return to the presidency under that amendment, arguing that he incited his supporters to attack the Capitol and that disqualifies him from running for office again.

The Colorado lawsuit has been viewed as a test case for a wider campaign to contest Trumps 2024 candidacy under the constitutional provision, Section 3 of the 14th Amendment.

"If it was so important the president be included, why not spell it out?" Justice Carlos Samour asked, noting that the language of the amendment does not explicitly mention presidents.

Jason Murray, a lawyer for the voters, said it would be "bizarre" to disqualify candidates for lower-level public offices and not the president.

"A rebel who took up arms against the government couldnt be a county sheriff, but could be the president," Murray said.

Murray said the 14th Amendment was the U.S. Constitution's "self-defense mechanism" against people who pose a danger to the government.

A lower court ruling last month found that then-president Trump engaged in insurrection by inciting a mob of his supporters to storm the Capitol in an unsuccessful bid to stop Congress from certifying Democrat Joe Biden's victory in the November 2020 election and obstructing the transfer of power.

But Judge Sarah Wallace allowed Trump to remain on the ballot in the Colorado Republican primary, finding that as president, Trump was not an officer of the United States who could be disqualified under the amendment.

Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican nomination, has asked the state Supreme Court to uphold the ruling allowing him on the ballot. His lawyers have disputed the finding that he engaged in insurrection and argued that courts do not have the authority to bar candidates from the ballot under the constitutional provision.

Trump lawyer Scott Gessler told the court that the Capitol riot was not serious enough to qualify as an "insurrection" and that Trump's speech in Washington on Jan. 6 exhorting his supporters to "fight like hell" was "perfectly consistent with normal patterns of political discourse."

Gessler argued the presidency was not a position the drafters of the amendment intended to be subject to disqualification.

"The president is different," Gessler said, adding that "the natural and comfortable meaning" of the amendment "points toward the presidents exclusion."

Watchdog groups and anti-Trump advocates have brought lawsuits in several states challenging Trumps eligibility, though courts have so far rejected all attempts to keep Trump off the ballot.

Trumps campaign has called the legal challenges an un-American attempt to prevent voters from being able to choose their preferred candidate.

The Colorado Supreme Courts ruling can be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court.

(Reporting by Andrew Goudsward; Editing by Scott Malone and Grant McCool)
In recent times, whenever a government lawsuit swears at common sense, at the facts and at the public interest, it has been a safe bet that Texas Atty. Gen. Ken Paxton has his fingerprints on it.

Sure enough, here comes Paxton with a lawsuit charging Pfizer Inc. with systematically misrepresenting the efficacy of its COVID-19 vaccine and attempting to censor public discussion about it.

"The COVID vaccines are the miracle that wasn't," Paxton states in the very first line of the lawsuit, filed Nov. 30 in state court in Lubbock. "Placing their trust in Pfizer, hundreds of millions of Americans lined up to receive the vaccine.... However, the pandemic did not end; it got worse."

There's a lot of misinformation and disinformation packed into the 54 pages of Paxton's legal complaint, some of it so nonsensical as to evoke laughter, starting with the fact that the reasons the pandemic got worse after the introduction of COVID vaccines had more to do with policies promoted by Paxton and his political cronies than with Pfizer.

But let's quickly dispose with the underlying theme of Paxton's lawsuit, which is that the vaccines don't work.

The COVID vaccines are the miracle that wasn't.

Texas Atty. Gen. Ken Paxton

The Health and Human Services Department of the State of Texas itself refutes that assertion. Its website documents that at every stage of the pandemic and among every age group, vaccinated Texans experienced massively lower death rates from COVID than the unvaccinated.

In late January 2022, during the devastating Omicron wave, for instance, the COVID death rate in Texas was nearly 805 per 100,000 residents among the unvaccinated. Among those who had received the recently released bivalent booster vaccine, it was zero. In late April, the latest period surveyed, the death rate among the unvaccinated was 23 per 100,000; among the fully vaccinated it was 1.83.

Those figures match the findings of countless other studies of the vaccines' effectiveness. A year ago, after the vaccines had been available for two years, the Commonwealth Fund calculated that they had prevented more than 18.5 million hospitalizations and more than 3 million deaths in the U.S. That saved the U.S. about $1.15 trillion in healthcare costs that would otherwise have been incurred, the fund estimated.

What's Paxton's purpose in challenging this reality? It would take a triumph of metaphysics to pry into his soul, but it's fair to conjecture that he's trying to maintain his extreme right-wing cred after his near-career-death experience in September. That's when his Republican colleagues in the state Senate narrowly acquitted him of the corruption and bribery charges on which he had been impeached by the Republican-controlled Texas house in May.

You can't say that Paxton doesn't know his audience. Polls show that Republicans, self-identified conservatives and the less educated have all been overrepresented among vaccine resisters, in part because of campaigns against vaccines and vaccine mandates promoted by politicians such as Paxton.

In July 2021, when the Biden administration was trying to impose a vaccine mandate on employees of the federal government and of federal contractors, Paxton was quoted responding, "Not on my watch!" That October, he sued to block the mandates.

Official Texas statistics showing higher COVID death rates among the unvaccinated refute Texas A.G. Paxton's claim that the COVID vaccines don't work. (Texas Health and Human Services Dept.)

In general terms, Paxton's claim that the vaccines are ineffective, even dangerous, dovetails neatly with themes parroted falsely by such luminaries of the extreme right as Arizona's Kari Lake, Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo  all of which have been conclusively refuted.

These claims are no laughing matter, however. They undermine confidence in vaccines against all vaccine-preventable diseases  measles and polio, among others  threatening the health of tens of millions of children and adults.

Paxton's immediate target is Pfizer, but his broader targets are the mRNA vaccines developed by Pfizer and Moderna, which are the leading COVID vaccines in the U.S. and much of the rest of the developed world.

He also takes shots at the Food and Drug Administration, suggesting that the FDA improperly approved the vaccines for distribution. It should be remembered that the FDA, America's premier regulator of drugs and medical devices, has long been a target of anti-regulation conservatives, including Johnson.

So let's take a closer look at Paxton's case.

At its heart is a ginned-up controversy over Pfizer's claim that its COVID vaccine is 95% effective against COVID. Paxton complains that that's a measure of the vaccine's reduction of "relative risk," when it should be citing "absolute risk."

Read more: Column: Scientists are paying a huge personal price in the lonely fight against anti-vaxxers

These are abstruse notions for laypersons, so here's an explanation. (Beth Mole of Ars Technica, a microbiologist, is very good on this topic.) Put simply, when risk is fairly low, absolute risk calculations yield low numbers. Anti-vaxxers like that, because it minimizes the perception of a vaccine's efficacy. Relative risk, however, arguably provides a better window into a treatment's effectiveness.

For its key clinical trial of its COVID vaccine in November 2020, Pfizer divided test subjects into two groups of about 17,500 people each. One group got the vaccine, the other got a placebo. None had shown evidence of a prior COVID infection.

Of the placebo group, 162 of the 17,511 subjects got COVID. Only eight of the 17,411 members of the vaccinated group got COVID. The relative risk calculation is 162 minus eight, divided by 162 and expressed as a percentage. That answers the question of how much less is a vaccinated person likely to contract COVID than an unvaccinated subject, and the answer is 95% less.

Absolute risk is much lower, because the original risk is fairly low  of the vaccinated group, 0.046% got COVID; of the unvaccinated group, about 0.9% did.

Paxton's argument is that Pfizer should have claimed only a 0.86% risk reduction rate. But that's absurd. As Mole points out, the absolute risk of an infectious disease can vary widely based on circumstance. "A person's absolute risk of flu drops significantly when it's not flu season," she writes. The absolute risk of COVID declined precipitately during lockdowns, and rose when people went out into the world again.

The question relevant for vaccines is how they worked for different people in the same situation  and that's relative risk. Pfizer's figures suggested that for everyone in a lockdown, the vaccine would reduce the severity of infection by 95%; the same for everyone out in the world.

Paxton asserts that Pfizer's 95% claim "created the false impression that 95% of vaccine recipients would never obtain COVID-19, full stop."

Read more: Column: Does Ron DeSantis even believe his dangerous B.S. about COVID vaccines?

If that's so, it's a flaw in our system of scientific reporting, perhaps because journalists writing about these results didn't know the significance of relative versus absolute risk reduction. But it was certainly well understood in the scientific community and at the FDA, which had all the data at hand and knows how to do the math.

Paxton also advances a long-debunked claim that the COVID vaccines actually increase the likelihood of contracting the disease. His argument here rises from a combination of sheer ignorance  if not deliberate misrepresentation  and flagrant cherry-picking.

One of his sources is a post that appeared on an online contrarian website last year and was widely reprinted, but that grossly misinterpreted an article in the New England Journal of Medicine about the effect of vaccination on children.

The post claimed that the NEJM article showed that vaccination increased children's susceptibility to COVID, but that was wrong, as the author of the NEJM article made clear. In fact, the article showed only that the immunity conferred by the vaccine waned over time, which pointed to the conclusion not that vaccines are a health hazard for children, but just the opposite  that they should receive booster vaccines.

Paxton's second source is a study of COVID death rates in Scotland that, he says, "demonstrate negative vaccine efficacy." For example, the data show that the age-adjusted death rate from COVID in the third week of December 2021 was 1.69 per 100,000 among the unvaccinated, but 6.55 per 100,00 among those with two doses of vaccine.

That's true, but incomplete. In that week, the age-adjusted death rate among those with a booster or three doses was 0.33. And by the second week of January 2022, the rate among the unvaccinated was 10.4 per 100,000, but for those with booster shots or three doses it was only 1.5. In other words, Scotland's survey irrefutably demonstrated that the vaccines worked, not the opposite.

The danger in Paxton's campaign against Pfizer is that it only amplifies anti-vaccination sentiment that is spreading alarmingly around the country, especially in red states and conservative communities.

Vaccination is the quintessential medical intervention that benefits not only the vaccinated individuals but all those around them  family, friends, co-workers and employees of the services that can't avoid contact with others. It's the sine qua non of public-spirited medical options, and it's our shame and misfortune that it has been redefined by the Paxtons of this world as a strictly personal choice.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
When the email came in from Juan Romero asking that I give him a call, I have to admit I did so with some apprehension.

The last time I had spoken with him, in February 2017, the Aurora, Illinois, father was desperate: His then-9-year-old son, Carlos, was battling a rare and deadly bone cancer that tends to hit children and young adults. And he was struggling to come up with the money needed for an expensive drug, not approved in the U.S., that could keep his sons cancer in remission.

Without it, he told me back then, the tumors his son continued to develop would likely come back and doctors admitted there were no more treatment options.

The good news was the Aurora community had gone to bat for the family time and time again. And this single dad who had just had his part-time benefits cut, was nothing but grateful for the $50,000 that was raised from a GoFundMe campaign, as well as from church fundraisers and raffles held by McCleery Elementary School, where Carlos was a fourth grader.

That money allowed Romero to pay for half of the 48 treatments his son needed over a nine-month period. But the problem was, how do you go back to the same well and ask for another $50,000? How do you continue to beg for money when you know there are so many other needy people also struggling with life-threatening challenges?

Turns out, after this story got out to the public, he didnt need to.

When I called Romero just recently, he quickly assured me his son not only was alive and well, Carlos remained a straight-A student even after missing so much school and, as a junior at West Aurora High School, is a member of the National Honor Society and excelling in extracurricular activities.

He then told me why: After the column ran in February of 2017, an anonymous donor came through with a $50,000 check.

This update may have been a long time coming, but is well worth the wait. As was my Wednesday afternoon visit with Juan Romero and his two kids at their home on Plum Street, where the 59-year-old father emotionally recalled that moment he learned Carlos had a fighting chance to beat osteosarcoma, which hed been battling since age 7.

He and his son were on their way home from yet another trip to Lurie Childrens Hospital not long after his story was published, when Carlos began asking his father about the money needed to continue with his treatments.

The account had gone dry by that time, but I told him, dont worry about it, Romero remembers. Then my phone rang. It was the social work manager from Family Reach, a New Jersey-based foundation that offers financial lifelines for families fighting cancer, who told him there was a donor who wanted to help.

When Romero told the caller how much was needed, he expected the offer to be a few hundred dollars, maybe even enough to cobble together one more treatment.

I had to pull the car over, he said, after learning the amount was the full $50,000. Miracles really do occur.

No one knows that more than Carlos, now a tall, healthy and obviously bright teen, who for years had to undergo repeated rounds of chemotherapy and surgery to remove tumors, including one that took half his left lung, only to have the cancer return again and again.

I just remember my dad always seemed so stressed, said daughter Daniella, now 15.

But Juan Romero was also determined. After all, what choice does a parent have when a childs life is at stake?

For one thing, because the needed drug Mepact was not FDA approved, he had to convince the doctors to even begin the process of trying to get it into the country, which meant also convincing them that if they could get special FDA approval, he would be able to come up with the $100,000 to pay for it.

In addition to desperately seeking funds, Romeros mission included repeated calls and visits to state and federal legislators, as well as trips to leading medical institutions like the Cleveland Clinic and the National Institutes of Health in Maryland.

Romero said he even considered moving to England in order to get the drug  generically known as mifamurtide  which is available in Europe and is said to boost survival rates to around 80%.

According to the Osteosarcoma Collaborative website, even after clinical trials in the U.S., the drug has yet to get approval in this country, although some young patients, like Carlos, have been able to obtain it through the FDAs compassionate use and personal importation program, and since 2017 some have even gotten full coverage by health insurance.

Romero, who can give a detailed account of the red tape and constant denials families can face when dealing with an orphan disease like osteosarcoma, has no idea who gifted them with the $50,000. Certainly both father and son would like to say thank you in person, but also understand and respect the request for anonymity.

Life since that phone call has been busy but good for the family. Juan, who was an accountant in Peru before immigrating in 2000 to this country, went back to school while working at Walmart to get a degree in logistics and is now looking for a career in that field.

Carlos, who got the all-clear news about his cancer last year, is a math-competition champ with plans to study engineering at Brigham Young University after completing his mission with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

I obviously want to make money, not so I am rich but so I will not ever have to worry about this ever being a thing if something similar happens again to my family, he told me. I survived for a reason, to help someone else in the future.

Likewise, his father, who continues to think about the children without access to the drug, is looking to better himself financially so he too can pay it forward when and if possible.

One lesson I always taught my kids is perseverance, he said. We work hard. We try to do our best. We never give up.
Its been a couple of years since any survivors of the sneak attack that thrust this country into World War II were around to be honored at the Pearl Harbor Day Luncheon held annually in the Fox Valley.

Our last known survivor was Everett Jim Schlegel, who loved attending the December luncheon until he became too ill for the 2021 event. He died that same month, on New Years Eve.

However, this banquet sponsored for the last 54 years by the Aurora Navy League not only continues to draw a large crowd but also distinguished speakers and guests, including first and foremost a few remaining vets that served in World War II.

The luncheon, held Monday at Lincoln Inn Banquets in Batavia, brought together World War II veterans Angelo Di Liberti, Duane Stevenson, Richard (Dick) Miller, Don OReilly, Lou Ebrom and John K. (Ken) Clausen, all of whom were given a standing ovation by 275 people, including business, education and civic leaders.

Also honored were two Korean War veterans, Lou Kueltzo and Sherwin Davis, whose numbers, likewise, are dwindling.

Perhaps thats one reason I love covering the luncheon - it gives me another chance to visit with these vets, to look directly into their faces and try to imagine them as just kids  their words  going off to fight a war that would forever change not only their lives but the world itself.

I also am energized by the genuine appreciation that is expressed by those attending, who take time out of their busy lives to reflect on that infamous day in history and to show their gratitude.

The Pearl Harbor Day Luncheon, however, is held not just to honor our beloved Greatest Generation but to applaud and encourage its youngest.

Every year at the event, the Brattin Civic Youth Awards are handed out to a group of remarkable high school students who excel not only in the classroom and extracurricular activities but also as leaders with caring hearts who are dedicated to making their community a better place to live.

This year awards went to Julie Farrell, Aurora Central Catholic; Alondra Limon, East Aurora; Alexis Magana, Marmion Academy; Megan Molenhouse, Rosary; Grace Potapenko, Aurora Christian; Jaden Blankenship, Illinois Math and Science Academy; Jakhai Hudson, Oswego; and Anna Buchenauer, Waubonsie Valley.

You are our future and I am so proud to know we are in great hands, U.S. Navy Capt. Craig Mattingly remarked as he began his keynote speech following the Brattin awards.

As the head of this countrys Naval Service Training Command, Mattingly has good reason to pay attention to this young generation.

In May, the former senior advisor to the Secretary of the Navy was appointed as head of Naval Service Training Command, which puts him in charge of 98% of all Navy training  the exception, as he pointed out, is his alma mater, the U.S. Naval Academy.

Its no wonder he cares so much about the future of our countrys military, and in fact, is often asked about this newest generation entering the service.

I can tell you with high confidence, he said in a voice teeming with that assurance, they are ready and they are eager to serve their nation.

And they didnt get that way by accident, he added, quickly giving credit to those in the room, including the St. Charles American Legion and VFW Post, Naperville American Legion and VFW Post, Fox Valley Veterans Breakfast Club, Fox Valley Marines Detachment 1233 and Aurora Council Navy League.

Mattingly described veterans and those who support the military in their communities as a true force multiplier for our military, not only because they represent the virtues of military service but provide a tangible link to that service for young people in the community.

To that end, proceeds from the luncheon go to the Aurora Division of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, as well as the JROTC programs at Mooseheart and East Aurora and West Aurora high schools.

Research has shown that veterans presence and military support in communities is among the most important predictors of a young persons propensity to service, he insisted.

And there is more need today than ever, said Mattingly, no doubt referring to numbers that show recruitment is down in all branches of the military, except for the Marine Corps and Space Force.

According to official sources, at the end of the 2023 fiscal year in September, the Navy was at 80% of its recruitment target, the Army at 77% and the Air Force at 89%.

Which makes events like this Pearl Harbor Day Luncheon even more important.

In order to continue to get the finest to serve, said Mattingly, it is imperative that we continue to tell the stories of those who did serve.

The captain then went into an account of the horrors of the attack on Pearl Harbor in Hawaii on Dec. 7, 1941, when more than 2,400 Americans lost their lives and more than 1,200 were wounded.

Nearly half those fatalities (1,177) were aboard the battleship USS Arizona, including 23 sets of brothers and the entire ships 21-member band that had been warming up to play the national anthem when the Japanese attack began.

Mattingly also recounted his meeting with Lou Conter who, at age 102 and living in Northern California, is the last known survivor of the USS Arizona.

The story of this quartermaster third class who, after the ship exploded, helped rescue dozens of burned crew members and later took part in the underwater recovery of bodies, is nothing short of riveting, he said.

Conter later became a pilot of an amphibious plane that was shot down twice in his 200 combat missions in World War II. He went on to serve a long career, including in Korea, eventually training Navy pilots and crew members on how to survive if shot down or taken as prisoners.

Stories like Lou Conters heroism and experiences are what continue to attract young people with a hunger for purpose and a desire to serve and join the military, said Mattingly. We have to continue to tell their stories. We must take these opportunities to learn from our history, to reflect on our values and more fully comprehend what exactly all of this is in service of.

While not every war veteran has a military tale as action-packed as Conter, Mattingly reminded us that each one who served deserves a standing ovation.

Some, like Dick Miller who was aboard the USS Drexler when kamikaze planes sent it and 158 of his shipmates to a watery grave off the coast of Okinawa, certainly experienced the worst of war. Others like Duane Stevenson, who turned 100 on Veterans Day, volunteered to serve and drove a truck with the Armys engineering unit, a vital link in the wars efforts.

To those World War II vets in the audience today, and those Korean vets in our audience, thank you for your service, said Mattingly. Because you served honorably, I have the opportunity, the privilege to serve.

The captain then turned his attention to the future.

If we are to remain the most capable force in the world, we must be able to recruit and retain the best America has to offer, Mattingly said. The Navy League and other service support groups help us tell those stories and keep it at the forefront of our national memories.

Events like these, he concluded, his appreciation evident, are a great start.

dcrosby@tribpub.com
 Flash

An international cooperation platform to provide sustainable finance capacity-building services for emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs) was launched on Tuesday in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The launching event was held on the sidelines of the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change with the attendance of representatives from the platform's over 20 founding members.

So far, 42 Chinese and global institutions, including financial firms and associations, NGOs, related service providers and universities have joined the platform named the Capacity-building Alliance of Sustainable Investment (CASI).

It was initiated by the Beijing-based Institute of Finance and Sustainability (IFS) and aims to train 100,000 professionals for EMDEs by 2030.

"The demand for sustainable investment is huge in EMDEs, but most of these economies are yet to put in place the key elements of a green financial system," said IFS President Ma Jun.

Ma said that various stakeholders' lack of "green" capacity has remained "a key barrier to mobilizing sustainable finance in many of the emerging markets in the Global South," which need green finance the most for climate action.

Eddie Yue, the chief executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), one of CASI's founding members, said that EMDEs are facing steep pathways to meet their sustainable development goals, requiring substantial investment.

He hoped that the HKMA Infrastructure Financing Facilitation Office could work with CASI on leveraging Hong Kong as a leading green and sustainable finance hub to help strengthen EMDEs' capacity to meet their financing needs.

Bill Winters, the CEO of Standard Chartered, another founding member of CASI, said "CASI demonstrates the value of constructive partnerships to accelerate sustainable investment where the need is great."

The platform is set to begin operation in 2024, with in-person events planned in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.
The Cook County states attorneys office has replaced the prosecutor heading its unit that reviews potential wrongful convictions and rebranded the effort, the office announced Wednesday.

Assistant States Attorney Nancy Adduci, who previously led the unit, will remain as a deputy, the release said. She was replaced by Michelle Mbekeani, who joined the office in 2018 as a legal and policy adviser. The office also renamed the Conviction Integrity Unit, now known as the Conviction Review Unit.

The shift came as Adducis work had come under scrutiny in the past year due to her prosecution of defendants accused of shooting and killing Chicago police Officer Clifton Lewis in 2011. The states attorneys office in June dropped charges against two of the three suspects amid accusations from defense attorneys of misconduct on behalf of the police and prosecutors who handled the case.

The change reflects the offices continued commitment to addressing historic inequities in the justice system and its ongoing mission to ensure fairness and integrity in the pursuit of justice, the office said in a news release.

Adduci will be a deputy supervisor in the unit, along with Iris Ferosie. Including the deputies, Mbekeani will oversee a staff of eight.

The states attorneys office had previously reassigned Adduci and her co-counsel, Andrew Varga, after the defense accused them of prosecutorial misconduct.

Motions alleging prosecutorial misconduct are pending, and the court has not made any rulings, the office said in a statement released at the time. The new attorneys assigned to the case will be reviewing the matter and responding appropriately.

Lewis was shot and killed by two masked men in December 2011 while working a second job as security at a West Side convenience store. Cook County prosecutors charged Tyrone Clay, Alexander Villa and Edgardo Colon in a case that dragged on for more than a decade.

Though charges were dropped against Colon and Clay, Villa was sentenced to life in prison in August after a lengthy bid for a new trial.

Adducis role as head of a unit meant to rectify convictions found to be unjust drew particular scrutiny due to the allegations launched in the Clifton Lewis case.

In motions filed to the court, defense attorneys accused the prosecutors of deliberately trying to withhold evidence by using personal email addresses  not subject to disclosure under public record laws  in communications with the Chicago Police Department. They previously filed a motion asking a judge to levy sanctions.

The Conviction Review Unit investigates claims of innocence and makes recommendations for remedies to States Attorney Kim Foxx.

Foxxs office has worked to vacate more than 250 convictions, according the release.

The establishment of the Conviction Review Unit is not just a name change; it represents a shift in our approach toward rectifying the wrongs of the past, ensuring fairness in our justice system, and incorporating community voices in our decisions, Foxx said in a statement. Our work has already led to significant strides, and this move further symbolizes our promise to the people we serve that we will continue to review, rectify, and restore justice, especially in cases marred by historical injustices and misconduct.

In her policy-focused role at the states attorneys office, Mbekeani lobbied for legislation prohibiting police officers from using deception when interrogating minors, the release said. She was previously an attorney at the Sargent Shriver National Center on Poverty Law.

I am deeply honored to lead the Conviction Review Unit, a culmination of my lifes work thus far in criminal justice reform, Mbekeani said in the release. My experiences, from advocating for wrongfully convicted individuals and their rights to initiating groundbreaking legislative reforms, have uniquely prepared me for this role. I am committed to upholding justice, addressing historical inequities, and ensuring that our legal system represents fairness and integrity for all.

mabuckley@chicagotribune.com
Ukrainians will, for the first time, celebrate St. Nicholas Day and Armed Forces of Ukraine Day on the same day (Dec. 6)  and Ukrposhta knows just how to mark the occasion.

Ukrposhta, Ukraines national postal service, issued a special print of Ol St. Nick receiving gifts of military equipment.

Designed by illustrator Kostya Lavro, the charity stamp Gifts from St. Nicholas depicts the two important winter holidays for Ukrainians, Ukrposhta announced on Dec. 6.

Read also: Ukrposhta to issue new Weapons of Victory postage stamps, donate part of sales to Ukrainian Army

While preserving the traditional children's image of St. Nicholas as a kindly grandfather wizard, Lavro added present day details. For example, St. Nicholas does not fly through the sky on a sleigh, but instead rides a Cossack horse. He carries a camouflaged satchel filled with military equipment: planes, tanks, and missiles, which are indispensable for the victory of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Ukrposhta

The stamp symbolically depicts Ukraines victory over the enemy: the symbol of Russia, the double-headed eagle, is crushed under the horse's hooves.

The stamps cancellation will take place in all regions of the country, including the main post office on Kyivs Independence Square, where a special cancelation mark from the occupied Autonomous Republic of Crimea and Sevastopol will also be used. The Ukrposhta branch in Dobropillya, Donetsk Oblast, will cancel stamps for occupied Luhansk Oblast.

Read also:

A total of 600,000 copies will be issued, and part of the proceeds will be sent to help the Armed Forces. The denomination of each stamp is $0.50 (UAH 18), corresponding to the price of sending a non-priority plain letter weighing up to 250 grams within Ukraine, plus a charitable contribution of $0.12 (UAH 5). The cost of the sheet of stamps is $3.00 (UAH 115). A First Day envelope, an unmarked envelope and a card will be issued for the stamps.

The stamp is available for purchase at Ukrposhta offices throughout Ukraine and online. The service also recently opened a New Year's Postal Residence where children can send letters with wishes to Santa Claus.

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
Semafor Signals

NEWS

Negotiators at the COP28 climate change summit are attempting to pin down language calling for a phase out or phase down of fossil fuels.

Two versions of a draft of the so-called global stocktake, a document issued after the meeting which looks at how far off track the world is at curbing emissions, have emerged. One group of countries is pushing for an orderly and just phase out of fossil fuels, while a second is arguing to rapidly [reduce] their use, rather than a full phase out.

The European Union has pledged to support a phase out, the commissions climate chief said Wednesday. All 27 European member states want this to be part of the negotiated outcome, climate commissioner Wopke Hoekstra told a news conference.

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

While COP conferences have become synonymous with the global discussion around climate change, debates on the future of fossil fuels only became a fixture of the event at COP26 in Glasgow two years ago, climate editor Justin Rowlatt noted for the BBC. A pledge now will not mean the world will stop using fossil fuels completely, he wrote, and its unlikely that delegates will actually commit to a date that fossil fuels would be phased out. But at least the world will have acknowledged what has always been implied by these negotiations - that we need to deal with the main source of climate change.

The contentious phase out debate has been a central peg in this years COP, which has been plagued by controversies over the record-high number of oil lobbyists in attendance, and the presidency of Sultan al-Jaber, an Emirati oil executive, over the conference. The United Arab Emirates have already signaled that they are not on board with a deal to end fossil fuel usage, and reporting by the BBC last week noted the petrostate hoped to use the conference to make new oil deals, something the UAE has denied.

Critics have said that COP has become a greenwashed event, and with this years record number of oil lobbyists, some campaigners believe industry profits are being prioritized over addressing human-caused climate change, The Guardian reported. COP has become an avenue for these corporations to greenwash their polluting businesses and foist dangerous distractions from real climate action, Caroline Muturi, a coordinator with the advocacy group Ibon Africa, told the newspaper.
The News

A slew of high-profile greenwashing scandals in recent months hasnt deflated enthusiasm at COP28 for one of the most controversial climate solutions: Carbon offset credits. The summit is awash in companies, governments, and independent oversight groups looking to cut or facilitate carbon-trading deals and patch up the industrys battered reputation.

U.S. climate envoy John Kerry, Kenyan President William Ruto, and other top officials here in Dubai have advocated for the role carbon credits can play in driving private capital from high-emitting companies in the U.S. and Europe to carbon-cutting projects, such as renewable energy and forest conservation, in the global south. Dozens of project developers are attending the summit, pitching offsets derived from everything from algae and cattle ranching to solar farms and forest conservation. Their overarching goal is to shake off a reputation of shoddy accounting that can drastically overstate projects climate benefits, as well as accusations of land-grabbing and the withholding of financial proceeds from local communities.

Theres a growing recognition in this COP that you to be able to do something with offsetting, as long as its not seen as greenwashing in the sense of validating the continued use of fossil fuels, Adam Hedley, an attorney who manages carbon deals for the firm Clifford Chance in London, told Semafor at the summit.

Tims view

The carbon market is splintering into varying degrees of quality, from the unimpeachable carbon removal credits that buyers like Microsoft are willing to shell out hundreds of dollars per ton for, to the highly dubious carbon neutral fossil fuels that Shell sells to energy companies in Asia. While governments and carbon industry groups have dragged their feet on setting more stringent rules, two problems have emerged: The risk of reputational backlash has choked off even higher-quality corners of the carbon market, with overall purchases down 25% this year compared to 2021; and less scrupulous players, especially in the oil and gas sector, are plowing into the market full steam ahead.

At COP28, leaders like Kerry have pressured sellers and buyers to raise the bar and restore the markets confidence through a mishmash of new voluntary standards with more rigorous criteria for what constitutes a high-quality carbon credit, and what types of green claims buyers can make on the basis of them. But it remains an open question how effective those efforts will be. And in the meantime, negotiations in Dubai over long-unsettled details of carbon market rules dating to the Paris Agreement seem to be moving backward.

In Glasgow [at COP26] I was almost physically holding Greta Thunberg and Mark Carney apart from each other, and people were screaming and yelling, said Rachel Kyte, a former top climate finance official at the World Bank who now co-chairs the Voluntary Carbon Markets Initiative, a nonprofit leading the development of industry guidelines. Two years later we actually have an end-to-end integrity rulebook that will make it easier for good companies to invest more quickly. Theres no excuse now for a corporation to not start using the carbon market.

Just before COP, Kytes group released new standards for what constitutes credible use of carbon credits by companies, including, among others, that they decline to zero by 2035. They follow a different set of voluntary guidelines issued this summer for carbon project developers that stipulate, for example, how forestry projects must monitor forest loss and maintain pools of buffer credits to account for inexactitude in their measurements. Also at COP28, six of the major carbon brokerage registries committed to collaborate on raising their own standards.

Meanwhile, a program led by Kerry to help low-income countries design certified carbon projects signed on a number of new corporate buyers, including Schneider Electric, Amazon, and PepsiCo. These efforts are all essentially in a race to take market share away from lower-quality projects, Kyte said.

There is still a huge amount of capital that isnt much bothered about integrity  oil and gas capital from this part of the world in particular  that wants to get into Africa and other markets, she said. The pressure to do low-integrity deals is very much there.

The poster child example, she said, is a package of deals by a firm called Blue Carbon, led by a member of Dubais ruling family. The firm has recently snapped up millions of acres of forested land in several African countries, including 10% of the territory of Liberia, from which to generate carbon credits on the assumption that it will prevent logging in areas that would otherwise be deforested. The firm has been accused of trampling local land rights and of overstating the baseline deforestation rate. Thats the kind of project we want to see less, not more, of, Kyte said.

Know More

In addition to these voluntary measures, COP28 negotiators are also working on rules for carbon trading under the auspices of the Paris Agreement. In theory, these rules would give national governments a structure by which they can use carbon projects to meet their own decarbonization goals or raise money through the sale of credits to companies or other countries. But after eight years of hammering these out, negotiators remain deeply divided on the same kind of quality and monitoring questions that have hamstrung the existing carbon market. Some countries, including the U.S., favor relatively flexible rules in the interest of getting these markets up and running quickly; more climate-vulnerable nations would prefer to see stricter rules even if it means the market takes years longer to develop.

Frankly, its a total mess, Hedley, of Clifford Chance, said. Its probably not going to happen at this COP.

Quotable

Im sensing a very high level of optimism and energy at this COP. Youre starting to see a convergence between the regulations in developed and developing countries in order to be able to trade carbon assets between countries, and getting to a point where a ton of CO2 is a global standard.  Mustafa Rawji, CEO of Rawbank, the largest bank in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which is investing $20 million to develop carbon credit projects in the rainforest there.

The View From Maine

One carbon speculator roaming the halls of COP28 is the timber company Weyerhauser. In September, it launched a pilot project to sell carbon credits from a 50,000 acre patch of forest it owns in Maine. The idea is that the company will scale back its planned harvesting of timber from the patch, and sell carbon credits based on those avoided deforestation emissions. The company effectively decided that certain parts of its 11 million acre forest portfolio can be more profitable to conserve for the carbon market than to harvest for timber, Chief Development Officer Russell Hagen said. But the company has wanted to move cautiously while rules for credibility take shape.

Weve seen some of the bad projects get punished, he told me. Candidly, Im glad we didnt finish ours a year ago, because we could watch how the market was reacting to a lot of the negative press, and then decide how to concretely differentiate ourselves.

Room for Disagreement

The new voluntary guidelines are far from perfect, said Gilles Dufrasne, policy lead at Carbon Market Watch, a think tank. The supply-side guidelines offer project developers too much wiggle room, he said, and the demand-side guidelines allow companies to count carbon credits against up to half of their Scope 3 emissions, which is quite backwards compared to what is recommended by the Science Based Targets Initiative, which recommends best practices across an array of emissions-cutting efforts.
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Iran and Russia on Tuesday signed a joint declaration on cooperation to counter sanctions and reduce the unilateral coercive measures' negative impacts, Iran's official news agency IRNA reported.

The declaration was signed by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov following an annual ministerial meeting of the five Caspian Sea littoral states, namely Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan, in the Russian capital Moscow, the report said.

After signing the declaration, the two ministers held talks on the expansion of bilateral relations, IRNA added.

During their meeting, Lavrov described the move as an "important step in increasing coordinated efforts by the global community's members to overcome illegal sanctions, which the United States and its allies use as a substitute for diplomacy."

Lavrov stressed that Moscow and Tehran were determined to promote bilateral relations.

Iran and Russia, both being sanctioned by the United States, have recently expanded bilateral political and economic relations to counter the U.S. moves.
The mother of a pregnant woman caught in the crossfire of an Akron shootout posed this question Tuesday to the young men convicted in the shooting: Was it worth it?

No, Yalaunda Dortch said, answering her own question. It destroyed your lives in the process. Our lives. Your familys lives.

Assistant Summit County Prosecutor Jonathan Baumoel listens as Yalaunda Dortch, the mother of Teyaurra Harris, speaks Tuesday during the sentencing of two of the young men convicted in the shootout that killed Harris.

Dortch and other family members of Teyaurra Harris, 21, who died in the shooting, offered forgiveness to the three young men being sentenced in Summit County Common Pleas Court and hope that they can turn their lives around.

We say a prayer that the time you have you use to be a better version of you, said Avery Dortch, Teyaurras uncle. There are too many people losing important pieces of their families over stuff that does not matter.

Jeremiah Williams, 22; Antonil Whitaker, 17; and Darrion Rackley, 20; all previously accepted agreements with prosecutors, pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter and multiple counts of felonious assault, with several of the charges including gun specifications that require additional prison time.

Jeremiah Williams (left) tears up as he listens to the remarks of Yalaunda Dortch, the mother of Teyaurra Harris, during the sentencing of Williams and Antonil Whitaker (right) for their roles in the shootout that killed Harris.

Williams and Whitaker were sentenced first, followed by Rackley.

Judge Alison McCarty sentenced Whitaker, who was bound over from Summit County Juvenile Court to be tried as an adult, and Williams to 20 to 24 years in prison. She sentenced Rackley to 34 to 39 years in prison.

McCarty noted that Rackley was getting more prison time because he was with the group that fired first.

It could have been a massacre, McCarty said, of the shootout in a residential neighborhood when it was still light out. Unfortunately, it all fell on one young lady and her family.

2 young women caught in crossfire of shootout

The shooting happened about 7:30 p.m. April 14, 2022, on Rockaway Street in Akron's Kenmore neighborhood.

Police say at least 30 bullets from three guns were fired after a person got out of a car and started shooting at a group of people in front of a house.

Akron police released this image taken in the 1400 block of Rockaway Street. Police said the person in black got out of the older Chevy Impala in the photo, and started firing shots at a group of people in front of a home down the road on April 14, 2022.

Police say two males with the group returned fire.

Harris, a 21-year-old pregnant woman who was a passenger in a vehicle driving on Rockaway Street, was struck in the back of the head by a stray bullet that went through the back window of the car. She died four days later.

A 19-year-old woman who was in the area was also hit by gunfire but survived.

Police arrested seven males in the shooting, with six of them accepting plea deals.

Jaunte Smith, Jaeviaire Small and Zyeir Saunders were all sentenced to prison.

More: 'Be that change,' mother of woman killed in crossfire urges man convicted in shooting

Lenier Worthy, 20, of Akron, has a newer case than the others. His next pretrial is Dec. 20. Prosecutors say he fired the shot that killed Harris.

Family members express grief and sorrow

The courtroom was packed for the sentencings Tuesday by family members and friends of both Harris and the young men convicted in the shooting.

Avery Dortch, Teyaurras uncle, said the family has to try to explain what happened to Teyaurras two young children.

They dont understand, he said. Its going to be difficult.

Avery Dortch, the uncle of Teyaurra Harris, speaks during the sentencing of two young men convicted in the shootout that killed Harris. Yalaunda Dortch, Harris' mother, listens to her brother's remarks.

Gregory Dortch, Teyaurras uncle, said in a letter read during the sentencing that these young men had no respect for life or for the law.

It was wrong for these young men to take law into their own hands, he said.

Dortch said Teyaurra was a beautiful person who had a smile that lit up the room. He said family gatherings arent the same without her.

Cassandra Dortch, Teyaurras great-aunt, said in a letter that she never imagined her family would lose someone to violence. She said this was something she read about happening in the newspaper or saw on television and felt sympathy for the family.

We are changed forever, she said. Always missing and forever missed.

Like her brother, Yalaunda Dortch encouraged the young men to turn their lives around in prison and to urge others to do so as well.

Yall need to stop, she said. Dont pick this back up. Make sure others stop and dont pick it back up.

Mother and defendant apologize to victims family

Aubrey Lions-Mitchell, Williams mother, apologized to Harris family.

She said her son is deeply sorry for what happened and plans to become a better man.

I ask that you give him grace and allow him to move on, she said. Hes been trying to put the pieces of his life back together.

Jeff Laybourne, who represented Williams, said his client took responsibility for his part in this shootingbecause he felt compelled to.

Jeremiah Williams apologizes to the family of Teyaurra Harris Tuesday during his sentencing for a shootout that killed Harris. Jeff Laybourne (right) represented Williams. Jacob Will (left) represented Antonil Whitaker (back.) Both Williams and Whitaker were sentenced to prison.

Williams also apologized to Harris family in a tearful statement.

Im very sorry for my involvement in this, he said. I know its hard for the family to wake up and not see their daughter. I took that from them.

Williams said he is grateful that Harris family has forgiven him.

Im going to take my time and become a better man for my family and myself, he said.

Jacob Will, Whitakers attorney, noted that his client is still a juvenile and isnt even old enough to vote. He said he is remorseful and has accepted responsibility.

Whitaker didnt speak.

Judge questions reason for shootout

Noah Munyer, Rackleys attorney, said he appreciates the resolution reached in this case. He said these cases are never easy, and this one was especially difficult.

Defense attorney Noah Munyer listens as Darrion Rackley makes a statement prior to his sentencing in Summit County Common Pleas Judge Alison McCarty's courtroom for the the April 2022 shooting death of Teyaurra Harris in Akron.

Rackley apologized to his and Harris families.

My actions caused a lot of harm to a lot of people, he said. I want to apologize  for everything.

McCarty said Rackley and his friends sat in a car on Rockaway Street for 30 to 40 minutes, watching for another car.

Summit County Common Pleas Judge Alison McCarty questions Darrion Rackley before sentencing Rackley for his role in the April 2022 shooting death of Teyaurra Harris.

You were trying to figure out what to do  deciding who you wanted to kill, she said. What was the conversation? Those actions show what you did was purposeful. It was callous and it was heartless.

McCarty said Rackley is doing more time than the other two young men sentenced Tuesday because he was among those who started the shootout.

You and your friends started the bullets flying in a residential street in Akron, she said. A big surprise the bullets flew back and the bullets killed someone.

McCarty said shed like to know what prompted the shootout.

Im guessing it was something stupid and trivial, she said. Someone disrespected you in some way. There was no respect for life  yours or anyone elses. You didnt think about your family, your friends, the people you were shooting, the people driving down the street or living in those houses.

McCarty said she hopes Rackley understands the devastation he caused.

It wasnt your bullet that killed, she said. It was your actions that started it.

Stephanie Warsmith can be reached at swarsmith@thebeaconjournal.com, 330-996-3705, and on Twitter: @swarsmithabj.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: 3 Akron males get prison time for shootout that killed pregnant woman
Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell campaigned on improving Music City's transportation, pledging to pursue a countywide vote on a tax raise to fund mass transit projects within his first term.

But when could voters see dedicated transit funding on the ballot? O'Connell's transition team is pushing for November 2024, coinciding with a presidential election likely to draw high voter turnout.

A timeline that tight could be a tall order, particularly as O'Connell continues to build out his administration.

Lessons learned from Nashville's failed 2018 transit referendum, which was heavily rooted in light rail and featured an underground tunnel that many viewed as too lofty, could help illuminate a path forward. O'Connell has already indicated his transit vision leans more toward building a more reliable bus system with more frequent service, and a high-capacity corridor to the airport.

A WeGo Public Transit bus crosses the Woodland Street Police Memorial Bridge in Nashville, Tenn., Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023. Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell put it to the voters to OK a tax hike to fund mass transit projects.

But O'Connell's administration would also need to be careful not to repeat the 2018 effort's pitfalls: pushing a plan forward with too much haste and not enough public engagement or input.

Alex Jahangir, chair for the transition team's transportation-focused committee, told O'Connell he will have to involve transit-dependent riders and those who have never used public transit  and constantly communicate how transit benefits each of them  to secure a transit referendum triumph.

On Dec. 1, O'Connell said he is aiming to make a decision on whether to push forward toward a 2024 referendum by the end of this year. His team, he said, is analyzing whether it's feasible for Metro to produce a plan quickly enough to get it on the ballot.

Here's what it would take to make that happen.

What 2018's transit referendum failure taught Nashville

Of the nation's 50 largest metro areas, Nashville is one of just four that do not have dedicated funding for transit, according to research and policy advocacy group ThinkTennessee.

A transit referendum would allow Metro Nashville voters to approve or reject a proposed tax increase that would fuel a plan to improve transit infrastructure (roads, sidewalks and more).

The General Assembly passed the IMPROVE Act in 2017, granting Nashville and certain other cities and counties the ability to hold such a vote. The law requires cities to come up with a transit improvement program detailing projects and their estimated costs, which must be reviewed by an independent, state-approved auditor and receive approval from the state comptroller and Metro Council.

Nashville's 2018 attempt at a $5.4 billion plan anchored by light rail, an underground tunnel and bus improvements failed at the ballot box, 64% to 36%.

A WeGo Public Transit bus heads north on S. 1st Street near Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023. Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell put it to the voters to OK a tax hike to fund mass transit projects.

A post-mortem review of the failed "Let's Move Nashville" plan by New York-based foundation TransitCenter flagged the plan's hasty compilation, inconsistent public outreach strategy and failure to stress-test the plan with community members as contributors to its downfall. When then-Mayor Megan Barry, the public face of the referendum campaign, resigned amid scandal in January 2018, the referendum push was further shaken, the report states.

Barry told The Tennessean she thinks a 2024 referendum is "absolutely feasible, because we can't wait." O'Connell has a "long history of supporting transit" and has embraced the urgency of the city's transportation woes, she said. Barry supported O'Connell's mayoral campaign.

Ron Shultis, director of policy at The Beacon Center, a think tank that opposed the 2018 referendum, said the lesson he drew from Let's Move Nashville's downfall was not the timing of the vote.

"The lesson is it needs to be a better plan," he said. "I think the question is, is that feasible to truly come up with a better plan  (and) get stakeholder and public engagement and feedback all in that plan in time for a 2024 referendum?"

It's not impossible, Shultis said, but he's skeptical.

Erin Hafkenschiel, president of ThinkTennessee and former Office of Transportation and Sustainability director under mayors Barry and David Briley, said one of 2018's big challenges was completing the engineering necessary to form a plan and estimate costs while simultaneously trying to do public engagement. This time around, O'Connell's administration can use the work done in 2018 as a jumping-off point for conversations about the trade-offs of different transit solutions.

"Each time you come back to voters, when you're talking about a topic as complicated as transit and transportation infrastructure, the voters are more educated about the issue," she said.

It often takes more than one attempt for a city to secure dedicated funding, she added, pointing to Austin's success in 2020 after a failure in 2014.

And support for transit-related ballot items is holding steady  across the United States, 37 public transit measures landed on the ballot in 2022, and 80% of those saw transit wins, according to the Center for Transportation Excellence.

What could Nashville's next transit plan look like?

Recent advancements in Nashville's transit and O'Connell's policy platforms lend clues to what voters could see in a transit proposal. Three main themes arise:

A high-capacity corridor to the airport, whether bus or light rail

Bus Rapid Transit corridors with dedicated bus lanes/signals that give transit priority and a network of neighborhood transit centers

Funding for sidewalks

O'Connell said he doesn't intend to offer a "rail-heavy plan," believing that the 2018 plan "was probably over-invested in light rail." Instead, he would first build out a "high-quality, gold standard bus rapid transit" network, he said during his campaign, citing infrastructure feasibility and lower cost per mile.

Nashville is already seeing some movement toward its transit goals, including on items the Beacon Center proposed as alternatives to the 2018 plan.

The city will open a Traffic Management Center in early 2024. Paired with the installation of digital message signs and adaptive traffic signals, engineers could adjust signals to help alleviate congestion in real time.

Metro has funding to explore the inclusion of dedicated bus lanes on Murfreesboro Pike, one of WeGo's highest ridership routes. A North Nashville bus hub is expected to open in the spring, and bus rapid transit features heavily in the recently released ConnectDowntown draft action plan. WeGo has also rolled out a program offering ride-hailing vouchers to riders in certain less-dense areas of the county to get discounted fare to designated bus stops.

Shultis said he wants to see "proof of concept" from these initiatives to build public trust before pushing ahead with a referendum: Will North Nashville's new transit hub spark increased ridership? How much will adaptive traffic signals impact congestion?

Hafkenschiel said the WeGo bus ridership surge on Murfreesboro Pike is proof enough. Even without consistent sidewalks and density, use has surpassed 2019 ridership levels. The route runs near the airport and out to the growing Antioch area, where many people have been pushed in search of more affordable housing, she said. Nationwide research supports a successful transit formula: frequent service, dedicated lanes and near-24/7, 365 day operation.

"If we are putting service out there, and we're providing transit that hits these key principles, we'll see it be used," she said.

Public engagement and communicating cost

O'Connell said the idea of a transit referendum shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone who followed this year's mayoral campaigns.

"Almost every candidate of all partisan makeups and individual backgrounds spoke to the need for dedicated funding and the recognition that it is one of the key ways in which we lag peer cities," he said.

Barry agreed but offered a note of caution: 23% of eligible Nashville voters cast ballots in the September mayoral runoff election. "If only 23% of the people were paying attention, don't let that fool you into thinking that everybody's paying attention."

O'Connell's administration also has a chance to learn from a lack of meaningful engagement with advocacy groups and African American voices on equity, gentrification and displacement concerns, according to the TransitCenter's case study of the 2018 vote.

Hafkenschiel said Austin looked at Nashville's 2018 referendum attempt when shaping its 2020 campaign to be proactive about affordable housing and displacement. Austin included a $300 million anti-displacement fund in its plan to protect existing homes and build more affordable housing along transit corridors. It's not immediately clear whether the IMPROVE Act would allow this kind of spending initiative in Nashville.

The act allows counties to add transit-dedicated surcharges to any combination of the following local taxes, with the approval of voters: sales tax, business tax, motor vehicle tax and rental car tax, and hotel tax. The money must be spent on transit-related improvements.

The 2018 "Let's Move Nashville" plan would have increased Nashville's sales tax, hotel tax, business and excise tax, and car rental tax to amass $5.4 billion in funding.

Dianne Ferrell Neal, an attorney and critic of both Mayor Karl Dean's Amp bus rapid transit proposal and the 2018 referendum, said the key will be creating a "reasonable" plan and explaining how it benefits all Nashvillians, whether they use transit or not.

Neal said she thinks the idea of riding the bus or using other forms of public transit may be more appealing now than it was in 2012 or 2018  Nashville has attracted newcomers, many of whom moved from areas of the country that have established public transit systems. But those people may have also been drawn by lower taxes and might consider moving to other Middle Tennessee counties should taxes rise.

Shultis largely agreed, noting that voters are willing to pay for large investments in public infrastructure so long as they believe they are good investments.

People understand there will be trade-offs, Neal said. She expects O'Connell to act as "chief explainer" if and when he moves forward with a proposal.

"There is going to be a certain cost to improve a transit program that gets tourists to the airport, but how much of that should I bear?" Neal asked. "There's going to be a certain cost to making sure that workers can get downtown without us having to build more parking. Where does that fit into how it affects me? Is it a good thing for my children? Is it good for my grandchildren?"

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville transit referendum: High voter turnout could help pass goal
Council tax bills will inevitably rise to cover the cost of a 1.6 billion public service pensions blunder which has forced local authorities to set aside millions of pounds in redress.

The payments relate to the McCloud judgment  a landmark legal case involving fire service and judges pensions.

Workers claimed their pensions were not protected in the same way as those of older employees, following a change in 2014 which switched public sector pensions from final salary schemes which guarantee retirement incomes for life to a less generous career average model.

The change was borne out of a 2010 commission into the affordability of public sector pensions.

Councils have had to set aside millions of pounds for payouts following the ruling. In October, new legislation came into force stipulating how town halls and other public sector employers will need to compensate affected workers.

Payouts will have to continue for several decades to come, until everyone who worked from April 2014 to March 2022 retires  the period over which the ruling required pension benefits to be corrected.

The cost to local councils in England and Wales has been estimated to be 1.6bn, according to the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) Advisory Board.

The LGPS has 6.4 million members and 15,000 employers which contribute to it. Per year, the corrections are costing councils 100m collectively, according to consultancy Aon.

Nottingham City Council, which effectively went bankrupt last month, had to set aside 4.8m in its most recent published accounts for 2020-21. Birmingham City Council, which went bankrupt earlier this year, had to set aside 5.6m in its 2021-22 accounts.

One in six council bosses expect their authorities to declare themselves effectively bankrupt next year, according to a Local Government Association survey published this week.

Steve Webb, former pensions minister and partner at consultancy LCP, said many local authorities were already under extreme financial pressure and that the costs of fixing problems with public service pensions will be a substantial additional burden.

He added: Whilst it is only right that the Government accepts the courts judgment and undoes the illegal age discrimination from when public service pensions were reformed in 2015, it will be local council tax payers who face the consequences.

This will inevitably lead either to higher council tax bills, cuts in public services or a combination of the two.

At retirement, workers affected will have a choice as to whether they want to have built up pension rights under the old or new scheme from 2015 to 2022  letting them choose the best option.

Virginia Burke, senior consultant with Aon and a McCloud specialist, said while the correction payments did place a financial burden on councils  she said it was eased by the fact the cost is spread across decades.

She added: Its a bureaucratic nightmare for councils. Theyre having to employ extra people to do the work. Its a resourcing issue above all else.

Theyre having to go back and ask for peoples working hours all the way back from 2014 and then go back to the payroll providers. They are also having to change the systems they use in order to actually pay the benefits.

People in these schemes will see very minimal changes, and some no changes at all. Its a huge amount of work and resources for very little change.

Joe Dabrowski, deputy director of policy at the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association, said it was an additional, unwelcome cost but that the LGPS as a whole is currently well funded with more assets than liabilities.

A spokesman for the LGA said the remedy was a significant project and that it is continuing to work with authorities and funds to ensure they have the right information and tools to implement it correctly.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Country music legend Hank Williams Jr. is going on tour in 2024, including a stop in Kansas City, to celebrate the 45th anniversary of his hit album Family Tradition.

The Country Music Hall of Famer will wrap up his tour at the T-Mobile Center on Sept. 14, one of just 13 tour stops.

Hell have a slew of different opening acts on the tour, including Whiskey Myers, Neal McCoy, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Charley Crockett, Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives, and Old Crow Medicine Show.

At his Kansas City show, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band will open for Williams.

Tickets go on sale online beginning at 10 a.m. Dec. 8.

In his long career, Williams has sold over 70 million albums worldwide, earned six RIAA-certified Platinum albums and 20 RIAA Gold-certified albums, and won ACM and CMA Entertainer of the Year.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Two Michigan couples were arrested on Monday and accused of abusing eight of the dozens of children they adopted or fostered for alleged financial gain, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel (D) announced.

Couples Joel and Tammy Brown and Jerry and Tamal Flore are facing a total of 36 charges in connection to evidence of abuse toward some of the children they adopted or fostered since 2007, prosecutors said.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced 36 criminal charges against Joel and Tammy Brown and Jerry and Tamal Flore.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced 36 criminal charges against Joel and Tammy Brown and Jerry and Tamal Flore.

These egregious allegations highlight not only a moral and legal failure of those entrusted with the childrens care, but a failure in our systems to ensure children placed in custody are properly taken care of, Nessel said in the statement.

Prosecutors said the Browns and Flores allegedly abused eight of the nearly 30 children they adopted or fostered under the guise of discipline.

Prosecutors accused the couples of adopting the children in order to collect money from the states adoption assistance program, which is intended to financially assist adoptive parents in covering for their childs care.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Nessel described the abuse as routine and systematic as well as both mental and physical.

According to prosecutors, Joel Brown used his expertise from his time working in the Childrens Services Administration Office of Family Advocate to keep the abuse of both familiesunder the radar.

The Browns and Flores were also accused of abuse earlier this year, but the charges were dismissed in the Browns case. The charges against the Flores were reduced, prosecutors said.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Nessel admitted the initial investigation needed more work and that Childrens Protective Services could have had better documentation and more accurate notes.

Nessel said that investigators have interviewed 10 of the adopted children, some of whom are adults now.

Children who end up in our foster care or adoption systems are often already coming from unbelievably vulnerable situations and deserve our utmost care, Nessel said. The Brown and Flore families preyed upon dozens of children who were removed from previously abusive biological homes and subjected the children to prolonged routine and systemic mental and physical abuse under the guise of discipline.

According to charging documents, the Browns face a total of eight charges including first-degree child abuse, which holds a potential life sentence. The Flores face a total of 28 charges, including six counts of first-degree child abuse.

Prosecutors said the couples arrest warrants have been processed and they have until Friday to turn themselves in.

David Carter, an attorney for Tamal Flore, told the Lansing State Journal that she will turn herself in by Friday. He also characterized the prosecution as grasping at straws.

Mary Chartier, an attorney representing Joel Brown, also criticized the investigation and prosecution in a statement to the outlet.

We won in court once, and were confident that well do so again, Chartier said.

Nessel urged lawmakers to amend the law to combat child abuse by raising the statute of limitation, arguing that victims are not likely to report their abuse until theyre free from their abuser.

Related...
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  According to court documents that DC News Now obtained, one of the suspects involved in carjacking a FBI agent was arrested.

The documents said that on Nov. 29, the Office of Unified Communications got a 911 call for an armed carjacking on 141 12th St. NE around 3:45 p.m.

The FBI agent told investigators that she was inside the door-jam of the drivers door of her vehicle when she was approached from behind. She said that she was knocked down to the ground in an unknown manner and became disoriented. The agent said that she remembered being on her back and looking up to see a male pointing a gun at her.

FBI, DC police looking for suspects who carjacked FBI agent

According to the court documents, the agent said that the person with the gun demanded her keys. She said she believed she was wrestling with the gunman over the keys when she believed she sustained a cut on her lips. She eventually handed the keys over, then a suspect asked for her phone before the gunman grabbed it.

The suspects got into her car and drove away. Court documents said that there was FBI-issued ammunition in the agents trunk when the carjacking took place.

The agent told investigators that she heard activity behind her and said that there was possibly a getaway vehicle, the court documents said.

The agent described the gunman as a male, skinny, 16-17 years old, approximately 59-510 in height wearing a blue mask with navy blue puffer coat and possibly had a hat or hood up.

(Photo courtesy of the FBI)

(Photo courtesy of the FBI)

(Photo courtesy of the FBI)

(Photo courtesy of the FBI)

Investigators later found the agents car in the south alley near 15th Street SE around 4:10 p.m. According to court documents, some of the agents stolen property was inside. Investigators were still working on processing the car and its contents as of Tuesday.

The documents said that investigators got video footage from 15th Street SE of the two suspects leaving the car around 4:02 p.m. and running away.

Investigators also tracked the agents stolen cell phone and found it in the 300 block of 11th St. SE. The phone was taken into evidence, and the FBI processed it.

Man arrested in Colorado for DC murder

The court documents said that on Nov. 30, MPDs Command Information Center said that an anonymous party texted a tip, identifying one of the suspects as a 16 or 17-year-old. The tipster said that the two who were involved were Area 71 gang members.

Investigators went to the identified suspects high school on Nov. 30 and spoke with a witness who was able to identify the same suspect.

According to court documents, investigators spoke with the FBI agent again on Dec. 3. The agent was able to give more details as well as say that three Glock 19 handgun magazines loaded with live rounds of 9mm ammunition were still missing.

On Dec. 4, officials got a search warrant for the identified suspects home address. FBI agents and D.C. police officers executed the warrant and arrested 17-year-old Devonte Lynch who was the only person at home at the time.

He is being held in the Youth Services Center pending trial and is being charged as an adult.

The court documents did not give any further details about the other suspect.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) clearly indicates the COVID-19 pandemic is not done with us, as almost all metrics related to the SARS-CoV-2 virus (test positivity, ER visits, hospitalizations and wastewater signal) have been steadily rising for weeks. Deaths, which typically lag behind these statistics anyway, have stayed unchanged over the past week, but have still averaged over 1,000 deaths weekly for the last several weeks. More than 20,000 patients were hospitalized this week with COVID-19 symptoms.

Additionally, last week the CDC released new estimates that around 1 out of 10 new COVID-19 cases in the United States are coming from the BA.2.86 variant, nicknamed "Pirola," which is nearly three times the prevalence that experts had estimated two weeks earlier. For most of 2023, COVID-19 cases have been predominantly driven by the XBB variant and its close relatives, the HV.1 and EG.5 variants.

COVID is still the primary cause of new respiratory virus hospitalizations and death, CDC director Dr. Mandy Cohen told reporters at a briefing on Friday. Cohen added that each week (at the time) the virus was responsible for an average of 15,000 hospitalizations and 1,000 deaths. Because the CDC is no longer tracking COVID-19 numbers nationally, the organization monitors the disease by analyzing wastewater. Through this method, they ascertained that viral activity is spiking nationwide, and especially in the Midwest (as Tool noted in his tweet). Despite these warning signs, a recent poll by Emerson College found that 57% of residents of the 22 states in America's Heartland are not going to get a new COVID-19 vaccine this year.

We found that American residents split down the middle, 51% to 49%, about getting the new COVID-19 shot, but likely acceptance dropped to 43% in our nations Heartland, explained Dr. Scott C. Ratzan, who helped develop the poll, in a statement.
COVINGTON, La. (WGNO)  A Covington man pled guilty and was sentenced on 200 counts of possession of child pornography.

Interim District Attorney J. Collin Sims said multiple cyber tips were submitted in September of 2021 to The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The tips alleged that 40-year-old Benjamin Edward Evers had uploaded images of child pornography to a cloud-based storage service.

St. Tammany Parish shooting leaves man dead

According to Sims, a search of Evers home in February of 2022 turned up more than 200 images and videos of prepubescent children being raped on his phone.

Evers had reportedly told police during an audio recorded interview that he viewed child pornography because he was curious.

On Wednesday, Dec. 6, Evers pled guilty and was sentenced to 10 years in prison by District Judge William H. Burris.

Prior to the extensive changes in Louisianas criminal laws enacted in 2017 commonly referred to as Criminal Justice Reform, this sex offender would have been facing a minimum of 26 years in prison on these charges due to his prior convictions for distribution of controlled dangerous substances and felony DWI. This case is but one example of how these reforms frequently frustrate the efforts of law enforcement and the district attorneys office to hold child predators appropriately accountable and reduce the sexual exploitation of children, said Sims.

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File photo taken on Dec. 19, 2019 shows Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov at Russian President Vladimir Putin's annual press conference in Moscow, Russia. [Photo/Xinhua]

Russia remains ready to hold talks with Ukraine, Russian media reported Tuesday, citing Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

"The president has repeatedly stated that the most important thing for us would be to achieve our goals (in relation to the Ukraine crisis)," RTVI quoted Peskov as saying.

"We would prefer to do this primarily through political and diplomatic means," he said, confirming that Moscow remains ready to hold talks with Kiev.

At the same time, Peskov said that Ukraine had previously disrupted dialogue between the two countries, and that Ukraine "admitted" that Britain had ordered the country to do so.

Asked whether such negotiations could resume in a Western country such as Hungary, Peskov said that this was more of a theoretical possibility.
(WJW)  A crash blocked several lanes of I-90 westbound during the Wednesday morning commute.

According to the Ohio Department of Transportation, two left lanes were blocked beyond Eddy Road in Bratenahl. Traffic was backed up for about an hour.

SkyFOX

Credit: ODOT

Half-off Starbucks: Heres how

FOX 8s Patty Harken reports two vehicles were involved.

2 right lanes open 90 WB past Eddy RD. https://t.co/OOgjoSxgYD  Patty Harken (@HarkenPatty) December 6, 2023

There has been no word on what caused the crash or if anyone was injured.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
Dominic West has revealed that he blocked his son, Senan West, from returning to the role of young Prince William in season six of The Crown because he was uncomfortable with the gravity of the storyline.

West, who plays Prince Charles in the long-running Netflix drama, shared the screen with his son last season. However, for the first part of season six  which deals in part with the death of Williams mother, Princess Diana  the role of Prince William was filled by Rufus Kampa.

Speaking to the Radio Times, as reported by The Times, West said: I didnt really fancy doing the scene at Balmoral, telling a boy his mother has died.

They invited Senan back because he did such a good job, and he was great, but I did slightly balk at that, West continued. It was unfair of me because he did want to do it, but I wouldnt have fancied that, to be honest.

For the second part of the season, due to be released on 14 December, the role of William will pass to an older actor, Ed McVey, as the story shifts focus to the budding relationship between William and Kate Middleton.

Elizabeth Debicki as Princess Diana in The Crown (Daniel Escale/Netflix)

Prior to the release of the series, The Crowns executive producer Suzanne Mackie promised an audience at the Edinburgh TV Festival that Dianas death would be handled delicately.

The show might be big and noisy, but were not. Were thoughtful people and were sensitive people, said Mackie. There was a very, very careful, long, long, long conversation about how we do it  and I hope, you know, the audience will judge it in the end, but I think its been delicately, thoughtfully recreated.

Long a figure of frenzied interest to Britains tabloid media for her beauty and the acrimonious nature of her divorce from the Prince of Wales, now King Charles III, Diana was just 36 when she, her boyfriend Dodi Fayed and their chauffeur Henri Paul were killed when their Mercedes-Benz, pursued by paparazzi, crashed in the Pont de lAlma tunnel in the French capital 26 years ago.

The accident shocked the world and led to an almost unprecedented outpouring of public grief, but has since been made the subject of a number of lurid conspiracy theories.
Travelers at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport will now have access to a new taxicab service taking them anywhere they need to go in Greater Cincinnati and beyond.

CVG has partnered with zTrip to provide the new service  now available at Ground Transport East  which airport officials lauded as a "cutting-edge transportation service" that combines the safety standards of traditional taxi services with the convenience of ride-hailing apps like Uber.

"We are pleased to welcome zTrip to provide on-demand taxi services for our travelers, Candace McGraw, chief executive officer of CVG Airport, said in a statement. "This partnership will enhance the travel experience by providing another ground transportation option that is convenient and reliable.

While CVG has used other taxi cab operators in the past, the level and quality of service provided to travelers varied, said Mindy Kershner, a CVG spokesperson. With zTrip, the airport is looking to provide a reliable level of service and security to its travelers.

zTrip's drivers are fully insured and have undergone comprehensive background checks, and travelers will have the option to select their preferred driver in the app or call the driver directly, according to an airport news release.

Kershner added that zTrip offers set pricing and there are options for getting a ride that don't involve using the app. Travelers also have the choice to pay with cash or card.

"It appeals to several different segments of our traveler base," Kershner said.

She said there's no limit to how far a zTrip ride from CVG can go, so travelers shouldn't worry about whether they'll be able to make it to their destination.

New zTrip app users can enter the promo code CVG for $10 in ride credits until Dec. 31. The app is available for download on the Apple iTunes and Google Play stores.

A full list of ground transportation services offered by CVG can be found on the airport's website.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: CVG airport launches new zTrip taxicab service for travelers


AUSTIN, TX - JULY 29: A member of the Austin, Texas police department

After a grand jury successfully brought felony charges against more than 20 Austin police officers accused of assaulting George Floyd protesters, the Travis County District Attorneys office in Texas made an interesting move.

In a social media post on Monday, Jose Garzas office announced that it was not moving forward with charges against 17 of the officers, but it will prosecute four of the remaining officers.

Read more

No parent should fear that if their child chooses to voice their First Amendment right to assemble peacefully, they will walk away with serious bodily injury caused by the very person called upon to protect them, Garza said. We expect the Department of Justice will take our request seriously, and we look forward to working with Mayor Watson, Interim APD Chief Robin Henderson, and City Council to ensure full cooperation with the DOJ investigation. We will also continue to hold law enforcement who break the law accountable.

So far, the Justice Department has yet to respond to the letter publicly. But this wouldnt be the first time it intervened to investigate police misconduct during the Summer of 2020.

Earlier this year, the Justice Department announced the conclusion of its investigation into the Minneapolis Police Department, finding that the department and the City of Minneapolis engage in a pattern or practice of conduct in violation of the U.S. Constitution and federal law.

Time will tell if an outside intervention changes the department and whether the remaining officers whose charges werent dropped will see the inside of a courtroom.

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The death toll due to heavy rains and flash flooding in Kenya has reached 154, according to a government official.

The devastating flooding, caused by unusually active El Nino rains pounding several parts of the East African nation, has rendered several roads impassable, said government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura in a statement issued on Monday evening in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. "Road repairs are ongoing in affected areas depending on rainfall water levels and accessibility."

Mwaura also said that heavy downpours with isolated storms are expected to accompany the heavy rains throughout this week until Dec. 11 across the country. He noted that the persistent floods have led to cholera and other waterborne diseases, with health authorities confirming 103 cholera cases in Lamu County on the Kenyan coast, resulting in two deaths.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Agriculture plans to distribute 450,000 doses of blue tongue vaccines and 1.4 million doses of Rift Valley fever vaccines for cattle to boost immunization in the affected areas, he added. Reports from the government and humanitarian agencies said thousands of homes were washed away or marooned, farmland submerged and livestock drowned . The semiarid lands, where local people live on pastoralism, have been among the hardest hit areas.

These regions are still recovering from the worst drought in 40 years, which led to high rates of malnutrition. "Despite these challenges, concerted efforts and interventions continue to be implemented to alleviate the plight of the affected communities. The government has made substantial progress in various aspects of assistance and relief efforts," Mwaura emphasized.
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has attempted to apologize for the thousands of lives lost to Covid-19 while he was in power, but was interrupted by protesters as he tried to do so.

Johnson was giving evidence on Wednesday morning at the United Kingdoms public Covid inquiry, which the former leader set up in May 2021.

During his opening statement, Johnson was heckled by demonstrators believed to be from a group of families who lost loved ones during the pandemic.

Four people stood up when Johnson began to say he was sorry, holding signs reading the dead cant hear your apologies, the UKs PA Media news agency reported. The protesters were then ejected from the hearing by the inquiry chair Heather Hallet.

One of them, 59-year-old Kathryn Butcher, later told the agency: We didnt want his apology. When he tried to apologize we stood up. We didnt block anybody. We were told to sit down.

Butcher, who is from London, told PA Media that her 56-year-old sister-in-law, Myrna Saunders, died from Covid-19 in March 2020, adding that Johnson saw the demonstrators signs during the protest.

More than 200,000 people were killed by the coronavirus during the pandemic in the UK, one of the highest death tolls in Europe, and Johnsons government was widely criticized for its response.

I understand the feelings of these victims and their families, and I am deeply sorry for the pain and the loss and suffering of those victims and their families, Johnson said.

I do hope that this inquiry will help to get the answers to the very difficult questions that those victims in those families are rightly asking, the former prime minister continued in his opening remarks.

Despite opening with an apology, Johnson would not be drawn on specific errors that he considered himself or his government to have made.

He went on to defend his actions during the pandemic by saying: I think we were doing our best at the time, given what we knew, given the information I had available to me at the time. He continued: Were there things that we should have done differently? Unquestionably.

Johnsons conduct during this period has been under intense scrutiny due to the evidence given by others to the inquiry, suggesting that his government permitted a culture that prohibited the right decisions being made.

The inquiry is currently examining how Johnson and his senior team reached decisions such as implementing lockdowns and why specific choices were taken at specific times. Johnsons evidence to the inquiry has already attracted negative headlines as WhatsApp messages requested from his personal phone could not be given to the inquiry due to what he claims is a technical issue.

Some of Johnsons most senior former aides have suggested that Johnson was bamboozled by the science as it was presented to him, while his former chief adviser, Dominic Cummings, has been vocally critical of Johnsons management style, comparing him to an out-of-control shopping trolley.

When asked if he thought it was unusual for advisers and officials to be as critical of a leader as they were of Johnson during the pandemic  including on the question of his own competence  the former PM replied: No I think this is wholly to be expected

While still in office, Johnson became the first sitting prime minister to receive a fine from the police, for breaking his own Covid lockdown rules. The Partygate scandal, during which members of his team  and the then-prime minister himself  attended events that breached the national Covid rules played a large part in Johnson losing the support of his governing Conservative Party and ending his time in office.

CNNs Jessie Gretener contributed to this report.

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PENSACOLA, Fla.  The death of a Florida plastic surgeons wife is under investigation after she experienced multiple medical complications while undergoing several procedures at his office.

Hillary Brown was receiving procedures on Nov. 21 from her husband Dr. Ben Brown at Restore Plastic Surgery in Gulf Breeze when she seized and went into cardiac arrest, according to an emergency response report and her family.

After a week of being in a coma, her family said she was taken off life support because she had gone without oxygen to her brain for too long and her organs were donated. The death is being investigated by the Santa Rosa County Sheriffs Office.

Hillary Brown, 33, was the mother of three young children by a previous marriage. She and her husband, 40-year-old Ben Brown, had been married for about two years. While Ben Brown faces previous malpractice lawsuits, her parents are left wondering what might have happened to their daughter.

What happened during Brown's death? Cause under investigation

Ben Brown called 911 from Restore Plastic Surgery office around 4:15 p.m., on Nov. 21, according to a Santa Rosa County Sheriffs Office incident report viewed by Pensacola News Journal, part of the USA TODAY Network.

The emergency call notes indicated a female patient was in cardiac arrest after potentially being overmedicated.

I interviewed the medical technician (name redacted) who advised the patient is Hillary E. Rogers Brown, who is currently Dr. Browns spouse, a deputy wrote. Hillary Brown was in the process of several surgical procedures when she experienced several seizures and then went into cardiac arrest.

The Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office "frequently (conducts) death investigations when the death was unexpected or the death occurs under unusual circumstances," spokesperson Jillian Durkin said in a statement regarding Hillary Browns death.

The cause and manner of death is pending the receipt of the autopsy protocol from the District One medical examiners office. The autopsy protocol typically takes several months as it usually is dependent on extensive laboratory and toxicology tests as well as the information gathered by our Major Crimes detectives concerning the circumstances of the death, Durkin said.

Hillary Brown's family devastated and looking for answers

Hillary Brown died Nov. 28 following a procedure performed by her husband, Dr. Ben Brown, in his office at Restore Plastic Surgery in Gulf Breeze a week earlier.

Hillary Brown's parents, Marty and Dixie Ellington, were shocked and devastated about the death of their daughter. They arrived at the hospital when Hillary was still in a coma after a frantic call from Ben Brown telling them to come from their home in Texas right away.

Her parents said she was full of fire and energy since she was a girl, and are left wondering how she was here one day and gone the next.

Marty Ellington said that Ben Brown told him that he was out of the medication they typically use, so he used something different. Ellington was left wondering why there was not more staff or equipment present to utilize in case of an emergency.

We want answers, said Marty Ellington. We havent been given answers. If its a mistake, it was a mistake, but it doesnt bring my daughter back, you know. I dont want his money. I dont want anything. All I want is an answer because I think that we owe that to my daughter.

In a social media post from Nov. 24, Ben Brown wrote about his wifes coma.

We need prayers for a miracle. Hillary had a cardiac arrest on Tuesday afternoon, he wrote. We called 911 and started CPR. Her heart came back but her brain is not doing well...Hillary Ellington Brown you are my soulmate, my world, my everything. Please come back. Please!

Practice faces previous malpractice lawsuits

Ben Brown's practice, Restore Plastic Surgery, has two malpractice lawsuits open against it, though only one lists Ben Brown as a defendant.

In that case, plaintiffs Wendy and William Carden allege that Ben Brown used "foreign materials" in a post-mastectomy reconstructive breast surgery without Wendy's consent in 2018, causing infection and sepsis at the surgery site.

The suit also accuses Ben Brown of "negligently failing to periodically monitor the position of the upper extremities," claiming that Wendy Carden suffered nerve damage and other permanent injury due to the extension and position of her arms during the prolonged surgery.

The case is still ongoing in Escambia County Circuit Court.

Ben Brown's family says 'mistruths' circulating online

Public relations firm Red Banyan provided a statement on behalf of Ben Brown's family Thursday, saying "his deep grief and shock is only compounded by many mistruths circulating online and in the media."

Ben is completely devastated by the sudden loss of his loving wife Hillary, and is desperately trying to understand how to live one day, never mind a lifetime without her by his side," the statement read.

It also stated that Ben Brown was performing "minor and routine" services during Hillary Brown's medical emergency, all medical protocols were followed, and additional medical staff were present at the time of the procedures.

"Our lives have been permanently upended by the loss of Hillary and we will forever keep her in our hearts.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Hillary Brown: Florida woman's death investigated after procedures
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Democratic U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley and U.S. Senator Peter Welch on Wednesday unveiled a bill that if passed would grant the right to vote nationwide to people who had been in prison or were currently in prison.

"The right to vote is sacred in America and it's essential to citizenship, and all citizens deserve a voice in our democracy," Pressley told reporters.

The bill is unlikely to advance in the divided Congress, where Republicans narrowly control the House of Representatives and Democrats control the Senate. The lawmakers acknowledged the headwinds to the legislation.

"There is resistance. We know that," Welch said.

Pressley referred to her family's history with the criminal justice system, mentioning that while she was growing up, her father had addiction issues and had been incarcerated before going on to become an author and professor.

Welch noted that his state of Vermont was one of the few places in the country where people do not lose the right to vote, even when they are incarcerated, along with Maine and Washington, D.C.

The laws surrounding voting and incarceration are a patchwork across the U.S., though in recent years, some states have moved to loosen prohibitions on voting for people who have been incarcerated or who are currently serving a prison sentence.

States may bar voting for people who are currently in prison, for a period after release, for certain crimes, or require an additional waiting period, a governor's pardon, or additional actions such as the payment of a fine, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Nearly 5 million people in the U.S. are directly affected by these policies, Pressley said, adding that Black Americans were disproportionately affected.

The United States is the country with the highest number and the second-highest rate of people in prison in the world, according to the National Institute of Corrections. Black Americans are imprisoned at five times the rate of white Americans, according to the Sentencing Project, an advocacy group.

(Reporting by Makini Brice; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
The biggest fight dividing Democrats across the country is the Israel-Hamas war.

The conflict is also dividing liberal cities in California, where bitter debates over symbolic resolutions have transformed local politics into heated fights over international affairs, human rights and antisemitism.

Local governments in cities, including San Francisco and Santa Ana, are debating whether to call for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza. Thousands of civilians have died there since Israel launched its response to the deadly attack by Hamas on Oct. 7.

Debate over the local resolutions reflect an intraparty split between progressive activists, who largely blame Israel for the violence, and a mainstream Democratic establishment that is concerned about civilian deaths but broadly supportive of the Jewish state.

Its a fissure that reflects ideological and generational divides, with many younger activists leading raucous pro-Palestinian demonstrations, including a takeover of the Democratic Party Convention in Sacramento last month.

San Francisco Supervisor Dean Preston, a staunch progressive, unveiled the latest resolution at Tuesdays board meeting, where hundreds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators lined up for hours to speak. Before the meeting, Jewish groups and elected leaders, including state Sen. Scott Wiener, held a vigil outside City Hall. Supervisors could vote on the measure as early as next week.

Preston said his resolution condemns both rising antisemitism and Islamophobia in the wake of the conflict. A draft of the text includes a paragraph condemning Hamas brutal attack on Israel in October. It also includes a section condemning Israel for its sustained and devastating military assault on Gaza in response.

But resolutions in San Francisco and elsewhere have stoked fear and anger among Jewish groups. Theyve pointed to the Oakland City Councils vote last week to adopt a cease-fire resolution in which several speakers spouted antisemitic conspiracy theories and voiced support for Hamas attacks on civilians.

Local officials in Berkeley, Richmond and the Orange County cities of Santa Ana and Stanton have debated whether to adopt a similar stance. City Council members in Santa Ana were also weighing Tuesday night whether to draft their own cease-fire resolution. A motion to add an item to the agenda directing city staff to draft a resolution in support of a cease-fire failed after two hours of testimony. But the issue could return to the council later this month.

Erik Ludwig, president of the Jewish Federation of Orange County, noted that city councils largely havent taken up measures over other violent global conflicts. He said the aim seems to be to propel a false narrative that Jews are colonists with no indigenous roots in Israel.

It is disingenuous to couch that conversation as one of cease-fire, Ludwig said. Behind the intentions of these resolutions, there is a purposeful divisiveness.

The local resolutions are the latest avenue for the debate after pro-Palestinian advocates failed to convince the Democratic Party to adopt a cease-fire platform at its statewide convention. Tensions over the issue were inflamed after about 1,000 demonstrators overwhelmed security guards and stormed the convention.

Fatima Iqbal-Zubair, chair of the state partys Progressive Caucus, said activists have taken the fight to city councils because it's a way for them to harness support for the cause. She characterized the demonstrators whove made antisemitic comments as outliers.

I know that theres trauma on both sides, Iqbal-Zubair said. For the most part, what Ive seen has been positive, in support of human rights.

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Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong meets with Minister of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation Vladimir Kolokoltsev in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 5, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong met with Minister of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation Vladimir Kolokoltsev on Tuesday in Beijing.

Wang said that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-Russia relations have maintained sound and stable development.

Next year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. China is ready to work with Russia to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, and strengthen practical cooperation in such areas as combating transnational crimes, cybersecurity, drug control, and law enforcement capacity building, Wang said.

Kolokoltsev expressed the willingness to deepen bilateral exchanges and cooperation to safeguard the security and stability of the two countries.
Democrats in the U.S. Senate introduced a national security funding package totaling around $111 billion, which includes assistance for Ukraine and Israel, as well as funding for border protection with Mexico, The Hill reported on Dec. 5.

The national security funding package allocates over $15 billion to support Ukraine, including funds for military training, intelligence exchange, and "strengthening the presence in the European Command's area of responsibility.

Read also: What to expect from the Biden-Xi meeting

The bill also includes $10.6 billion in aid to Israel, involving strengthening missile defense capabilities and expedited development of the Iron Beam missile defense system.

$43.6 billion is designated to enhance the country's manufacturing capabilities in arms and ammunition, along with investments in the U.S. industrial base for submarines and the reinforcement of stockpiles.

The bill provides over $5 billion in emergency funding for U.S. Customs and Border Protection and approximately $2.3 billion for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

[It is] imperative [that] we extend our support for Ukraine at this pivotal moment and make clear to Putin and other dictators that they cannot simply wait out the United States, said Patty Murray, Senate Appropriations Committee Chair in response to the project's release.

Read also:

The bill is expected to be brought to the first procedural vote on Dec. 6, as Democrats warn of Ukraine facing a resource shortage amid the war with Russia.

The path to passing the bill could prove challenging as Republicans insist on more aggressive proposals regarding the border, The Hill notes.

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson announced that he would not support further military aid to Ukraine unless the issue of border security in the United States is resolved.

Read also: US Congress uncertain Ukraine aid bill could pass before 2024

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy canceled his video conference appearance in the Senate at the last minute due to an urgent matter, NV reported.

There is a significant risk of losing the war without assistance from the U.S., Andriy Yermak, Zelenskyys Chief-of-Staff, said during his visit to Washington on Dec. 5.

Yermak, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and Strategic Industries Minister Alexander Kamyshin, are in the U.S. to hold meetings with high-ranking U.S. and NATO officials regarding arms production in Ukraine, Politico reported on Dec. 5.

The issue of providing weapons to Ukraine itself is no longer contentious and has bipartisan support, said Oksana Markarova, Ukraine's U.S Ambassador.

There has been active discussion about whether we need such significant budgetary assistance or whether it should be reduced. As of today, there is a positive trend, and in the Senate, we have seen that not only have these figures not been reduced, but some of them have been increased in the proposals, she said.

The Biden administration issued an urgent warning to Congress on Dec. 4 to approve tens of billions of dollars in military and economic aid to Ukraine. Otherwise, the U.S. will cease to supply weapons, risking putting Ukraine on its knees on the battlefield.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Some Democrats are publicly blasting the presidents of three elite colleges for refusing to say calling for Jewish genocide is classified as bullying, harassment or violates their school policy.

Harvard University President Claudine Gay, University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill and Massachusetts Institute of Technology President Sally Kornbluth faced a contentious, more than five-hour grilling from lawmakers on Tuesday over their response to antisemitism on their campuses.

Now the presidents are facing the fallout due to some of their answers to questions from Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), who demanded the college leaders outline whether pro-Palestinian student protestors' calls for intifada or the genocide of Jews violate their codes of conduct on bullying or harassment.

Does calling for the genocide of Jews violate Penn's rules or code of conduct, yes or no? Stefanik asked Magill at a Tuesday House hearing on campus antisemitism.

To which Magill responded: If the speech turns into conduct, it can be harassment.

Stefanik slammed the response, saying: Conduct meaning committing the act of genocide? The speech is not harassment? This is unacceptable.

Each of the presidents were asked the same question and responded similarly. They also said while they personally did not agree with the rhetoric used by those students, they are committed to preserving free speech on campus.

Stefanik, who previously called on Gay to resign, on Wednesday called for all three presidents to be fired.

They dont deserve the dignity of resigning, Stefanik said on Fox News. They need to be fired.

Magill has since released a video statement apologizing for her testimony amid intense backlash. The video, published on X, has been viewed more than 20 million times.

She said that during her testimony she was "focused on our universitys longstanding policies aligned with the U.S. Constitution, which say that speech alone is not punishable." Magill also said her school would initiate a serious and careful look at our policies.

I was not focused on, but I should have been, the irrefutable fact that a call for genocide of Jewish people is a call for some of the most terrible violence human beings can perpetrate," she said.

Democrats pile on the presidents

Democrats are also needling the presidents over their responses, though many stopped short of demanding their resignations.

The White House on Tuesday responded to the House hearing by slamming calls for genocide as antithetical to everything we represent as a country.

Magill has faced scorching criticism from top Democrats in her state and other lawmakers. Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) called Magill's comments"offensive," and said "calling for the genocide of Jews is antisemitic and harassment, full stop." Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) said Magill's testimony was "embarrassing for a venerable Pennsylvania university." And Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.), despite Magill's apology video, said the Penn president "should still be fired!"

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a first-term Democrat, also slammed Magills testimony as a "failure of leadership."

"That was an unacceptable statement from the president of Penn," Shapiro said in response to Magill not condemning calls for genocide. "Frankly, I thought her comments were absolutely shameful. It should not be hard to condemn genocide."

More than 1,500 Penn alumni, donors and students are calling on Magill to resign. And while Shapiro did not outright join the call, he said the universitys board of directors has a "serious decision" to make in response to Magills comments and needs to meet soon, to make that determination.

At the White House press briefing on Wednesday, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre refused to say whether the presidents should resign and said the White House does not get involved in private university processes and how they run their university.

We do not stand for calls for genocide," Jean-Pierre said. That is unacceptable. That is vile. We will call that out.

Gay told House lawmakers Tuesday that the rhetoric is at odds with the values of Harvard, but she also said free speech allows students to express views that are objectionable, offensive, hateful.

On Wednesday, she put out another statement amid the backlash the presidents have received for their responses at the hearing.

There are some who have confused a right to free expression with the idea that Harvard will condone calls for violence against Jewish students, Gay said. Let me be clear: Calls for violence or genocide against the Jewish community, or any religious or ethnic group are vile, they have no place at Harvard, and those who threaten our Jewish students will be held to account.
An Augusta woman was arrested on Nov. 28 after allegedly assaulting Richmond County Sheriff's Office deputies at A. Dorothy Hains Elementary School.

Tyara Ramsey, 32, of Augusta, is charged with five counts of felony obstruction of a law enforcement officer, according to arrest warrants.

At about 6 p.m. Nov. 28, Ramsey allegedly pushed and kicked deputies as they were trying to detain her, according to warrants.

While attempting to handcuff her, she also allegedly swung one of her handcuffed arms at an investigator, according to warrants.

Arrest warrants didn't include many details about why Ramsey was placed under arrest. The Augusta Chronicle requested the incident report on Tuesday, but did not receive an immediate response.

More: Evans woman charged with assaulting husband who fell asleep before birthday sex

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Augusta woman charged with five counts of felony obstruction
Image Credits: Bryce Durbin / TechCrunch.

A source sent me a photo of a peculiar notebook received by someone who attended Google's K&I Black Summit in August but only recently looked through the merchandise from the event.

On the front of the Google-branded notebook given to its Black attendees is the summit's name alongside the event's theme: Seize the moment. Thats completely normal. On the inside of the notebook, however, it reads verbatim, I was just cotton the moment, but I came back to take your notes.

two photos of a notebook side-by-side, featuring a K&I Black Google Summit-branded front cover and on the inside

Image Credits: supplied

Now pause. The notebook is funny because its one of those things that, if given to a crowd of any other race, the slogan inside would have meant relatively nothing. It might have been perceived as it was likely supposed to be: a notebook made from eco-friendly recycled cotton materials. Instead, here is just this notebook, given to an audience of Black people, that says, I was just cotton the moment. It is an awkward oversight from Google, especially in the post-2020 era when support for Black employees has become more deliberate.

When reached by email, a Google spokesperson did not dispute that the company gave out the notebooks during the event. The spokesperson said that the notebooks were purchased through a third-party vendor and that Google did not add the cotton line. (Google declared the email on "background," which requires that both parties agree to the terms in advance. We are printing the reply, as we were given no opportunity to reject the terms.)

I asked the spokesperson how the attendees might perceive the notebook's awkward "cotton" line, but the spokesperson did not directly respond at the time. It is clear that whoever was overseeing the ordering of these notebooks did not pay keen attention to how they could be perceived before handing them out.

After this story was published, Google spokesperson Emily Hawkins provided a statement that said Google is "reviewing our processes to avoid similar situations as we engage with vendors going forward."

"We understand the line might come across as insensitive and apologize for any unintended offense that was caused," the spokesperson said.

If anyone knows more about what happened at this Summit, please let's get brunch.

Contact me on Signal at 646-831-7565.

Updated with additional comment from Google.
A lawsuit filed this week alleges that Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey did not have authority to demand access to patient information and records from a St. Louis transgender center.

The lawsuit, filed in St. Louis Circuit Court by Washington University in St. Louis, asks a judge to determine whether the Republican attorney generals investigative demands to the Washington University Transgender Center at St. Louis Childrens Hospital were legal and whether his requests should be modified.

The patient records contain deeply personal information regarding medical history, care and treatment, treatment decisions, mental health assessments, and otherwise, the lawsuit states.

The focus of the lawsuit is an investigation that Bailey launched into the center for transgender kids in February amid an onslaught of Republican attempts to regulate health care for LGBTQ youth. Bailey used the states consumer protection law, called the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act, to demand access to patient health records at the center.

The lawsuit questions whether some of Baileys demands for health care information for more than 1,000 patients and for testimony from a doctor and nurse are in line with the state law, which typically deals with false advertising.

Certain statements have been made by the Attorney General that have caused Washington University to further question whether all of the requests (including those at issue now) are properly within the scope of the MMPA, the lawsuit says.

Those statements, the lawsuit alleges, suggested that Baileys investigation was more directed at medical decision-making than sales or advertising. The university has worked with Bailey on the demands focused on advertising, but argues that patient records are outside of his authority.

Bailey, in a statement on Wednesday, pushed back, saying the documents are critical to exposing that children were subject to irreversible, life-altering procedures without full and informed parental consent.

Bailey has faced blowback and litigation for his offices broad interpretation of the states consumer protection law in the past, including his attempt to use the law to restrict gender-affirming care for both adults and kids earlier this year. A judge temporarily blocked the restrictions, but Bailey withdrew the rule before a final ruling in the case.

The chief concern in the universitys lawsuit centers on the privacy of patients medical records with the university arguing that records are protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

The lawsuit states that the university asked the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Civil Rights whether Baileys office would be considered a health oversight agency  which would be allowed to receive protected information. The university did not receive a response, it said.

The emergency rule restricting care and the investigation into the center came after claims from Jamie Reed, a former employee at the center, who alleged the center excessively provided hormone therapy to mentally ill children without first treating their underlying mental health issues.

The lawsuit states that the appropriateness of certain disclosures of patient information by Reed is the subject of an ongoing investigation by the university and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Civil Rights.

Bailey, in his statement on Wednesday, seized on this line in the lawsuit, saying his office would not let Joe Biden and his federal bureaucrats interfere with our investigation into the pediatric transgender clinic.

The university in April released the results of an internal investigation into the transgender center, stating that allegations of substandard care causing adverse outcomes for patients at the Center are unsubstantiated.

But Reeds claims, in part, fueled a major push by Republican lawmakers to pass legislation restricting gender-affirming care for minors. Republican Gov. Mike Parson signed the legislation into law during Pride Month in June.
By Nidal al-Mughrabi and Maggie Fick

CAIRO/BEIRUT (Reuters) - Tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians have crammed into the Rafah area on Gaza's border with Egypt to escape Israeli bombardments, the United Nations said on Wednesday, despite their fears that they will also not be safe there.

The U.N. humanitarian office said in a report that most of the displaced people in Rafah were sleeping rough because of a lack of tents although the U.N. had managed to distribute a few hundred.

Civilians have been arriving following evacuation orders by the Israeli military that covered areas in and around the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis.

Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians had already fled from northern Gaza to the south during the two-month-old conflict between Israel and the Hamas militants it is trying to eliminate.

The latest exodus leaves many displaced Palestinians increasingly cornered near the Egyptian border, in an area deemed safe by Israel's military.

"The Israelis are lying. No place in Gaza is safe and tomorrow they are going to come after us in Rafah," Samir Abu Ali, a 45-year-old father of five, told Reuters by telephone from Rafah.

"They want another Nakba but I will not leave. Rafah is the 'end-of' destination for me," he said.

He was referring to the "Nakba", or "catastrophe", when many Palestinians fled or were forced from their homes during the 1948 war that accompanied Israel's creation.

Other Gazans echoed his concerns.

"Israel is now pushing us towards Rafah and then they will invade there," another displaced person who gave her name as Zinaib said by telephone from Khan Younis.

AID DISTRIBUTION HAMPERED

Israel's military, which wants to wipe out Hamas after the militant group's killing spree in southern Israel on Oct. 7, says it has been telling civilians in advance to evacuate areas where it plans to operate, using phone messages, online statements and leaflets.

The U.N. says about 80% of Gaza's 2.3 million people have fled their homes during the war, and that many of them have moved repeatedly, and under aerial bombardment.

Rafah city is about 13 km (8 miles) from Khan Younis, which is under fierce attack. It sits on the border with Egypt, and the Rafah Crossing is the sole crossing point between Egypt and the Gaza Strip.

The U.N. report issued on Wednesday said that although some aid had entered Gaza from Egypt through the crossing, its distribution by the U.N. had been hampered by a shortage of trucks and because staff could not report to Rafah because of the surge in hostilities since a truce collapsed last week.

(Reporting by Maggie Fick in Beirut and Nidal al-Mughrabi in Cairo, Editing by Angus MacSwan and Timothy Heritage)
By Foo Yun Chee, Supantha Mukherjee and Martin Coulter

BRUSSELS/STOCKHOLM/LONDON (Reuters) - European Union ambitions to take a lead in landmark rules for artificial intelligence hang in the balance as member states and lawmakers meet on Wednesday to try to hammer out a deal on biometric surveillance and how to regulate systems like ChatGPT.

If agreed, the EU's first-of-a-kind AI Act, which was proposed by the European Commission two years ago, could serve as the benchmark for countries seeking an alternative to the United States' light-touch approach and China's interim rules.

Talks between EU members and lawmakers will start at 1400 GMT and are expected to run into the early hours of Thursday, with the most likely outcome a provisional deal on principles but not crucial details, five people directly involved said.

A final deal would then need to be agreed before legislation could be put in place, which could pave the way towards it becoming law before European parliamentary elections in June.

But without a deal, the AI Act is likely to be shelved due to a lack of time, resulting in the 27-member bloc losing its first-mover advantage in regulating the technology.

Alexandra van Huffelen, Dutch minister for digitalisation, told Reuters it was critical the EU finds a compromise, particularly on generative AI, by the end of the year.

"The world is watching us: citizens, stakeholders, NGOs and the private sector want us to agree on a meaningful piece of legislation regarding AI, including GPAI," she said referring to general purpose AI systems, which have a wide range of uses.

DEMANDS

The proposed AI rules face conflicting EU demands.

The two biggest are over the use of AI in biometric surveillance and foundation models, the generative AI such as Microsoft backed OpenAI which trains on large sets of data to perform various tasks.

EU lawmakers want to ban the use of AI in biometric surveillance, while governments want an exception for national security, defence and military purposes.

A late proposal by France, Germany and Italy to let makers of generative AI models self-regulate added more uncertainty.

EU ambassadors and lawmakers held separate preparatory meetings last week, but differences remain which could make it difficult to clinch a deal, said the people involved in the talks, who declined to be named because they are confidential.

An official from one major EU country said whatever the meeting's outcome, there will still be a lot more work to do.

(Reporting by Foo Yun Chee, Supantha Mukherjee and Martin Coulter; Editing by Josephine Mason and Alexander Smith)
A businessman has helped identify parts of what is thought to be $100m worth of treasure hidden in the sands of the Bahamas from a shipwreck over 300 years ago.

Carl Allen, the former CEO of the Heritage Bag Company, which produced bin liners, has turned his attention to recovering expensive artifacts from the seabed that were lost after a Spanish treasure ship sank in 1656.

After years of exploration and investment in the project, Mr Allens organisation, AllenX, has helped to map out a trail of lost treasures and riches over two miles on the sea floor off the Bahamas.

For years, the waters just off the Bahamas have attracted many archaeologists and treasure hunters to see what they could find hidden in the sands from the Nuestra Senora de las Maravillas ship.

In January 1656, the Maravillas sank in less than an hour when it collided with another ship in the water, taking down masses of riches, such as jewellery, silver bars and coins.

AllenX has been given the sole license to find the lost treasures (CBS Mornings)

Much of the treasure was found throughout the years and was sold at auctions and put in private collections until 1999, when the Bahamian government banned searches to stop any more from exiting their territory, reports CBS.

However, marine archaeologist Jim Sinclair believes there is over $100 million in treasures and artifacts still sitting on the sea floor, claiming that the ships main pile was still not found, he told the outlet.

Luckily for Mr Allen, the moratorium on the exploration was lifted in 2019 for AllenX, who were given sole license to explore what remains in the 250 square feet of water.

So far, AllenX, with the help of a 183-foot research vessel, support boats, submarine and divers, has mapped out around 8,800 items of potential cultural significance along their two-mile treasure trail, according to the companys new report.

They said they have found items such as loose ballast stones, the occasional wooden plank, iron rigging, gun carriage concretions and two iron swivel guns to ceramics, silver pesos, silver bars, emeralds, amethysts and gold jewellery.

While their divers have successfully recovered and pinpointed artifacts in many of their explorations, the work is more complex due to various factors.

The exploration has discovered around 8,800 artefacts which are thought to be culturally significant (CBS Mornings)

Some discoveries in the past were buried under 1.5 meters of sand, and the movement of the wreckage over hundreds of years has dispersed the items, making them harder to find.

Mr Allen said to CBS that mother nature was his biggest obstacle in recovering and identifying the shipwreck objects.

Despite this, AllenX has recovered more than 10,000 artifacts from the Maravillas, but the companys report states that the ship has not been salvaged into oblivion as significant archaeological remains survive.

For Mr Allen, creating the Maravillas treasure map was not for his personal financial gain, but he hoped to keep the load in the Bahamas as historical exhibits in the Maritime Museum his company built.
A nearly 25-year-old rape and murder cold case has been solved due to DNA forensics and genetics, the Broward County Sheriffs Office said Tuesday.

Sheriff Gregory Tony identified the victim as Eileen Truppner and the killer as Lucious Boyd, 64, at a news conference. Boyd is on death row for a murder committed two weeks before Truppners death, the sheriffs office said in a news release.

In December 1998, Truppners body was found by a boater in southwest Broward County near US Route 27, according to a news statement from May.

Using DNA found at the crime scene, investigators contacted the Florida Department of Law Enforcement genealogy unit. DNA swabs from Truppners relatives were taken for comparison.

Lucious Boyd - Florida Department of Corrections

The office emphasized Boyd is a suspect in several other homicides. He reportedly traveled across the state of Florida and the sheriffs office is looking for tips from anyone who may have had contact with him between 1995 and 1999.

We strongly believe hes a serial killer, said Broward County Sheriffs Office Capt. Jonathan Brown.

This is the 21st cold case that has been solved since the Broward Sheriffs Homicide Cold Case Unit was established in 2019.

If you commit a crime, a brutal murder or a rape, whether it (was) 20 years ago or tomorrow, Tony said, Were gonna track you down and bring you into custody.

The wound is open, it hurts and it hurts like it was yesterday, Truppners sister Nancy said.

In November, a grand jury indicted Boyd for first-degree murder and sexual battery in connection with Truppners death.

CNN has reached out to the Broward County Public Defenders Office for comment.

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MUNCIE, Ind.  One of two people arrested this week at the scene of a burglary was found, by an Indiana Department of Natural Resources K-9, hiding in a wood-burning stove.

Michael Wayne Foster, 33, and Shyanne Nichole Wellington, 25, both of Muncie, were taken into custody early Monday evening after a man reported his property, in the 5600 block of East Delaware County Road 700-S, was being burglarized.

An acquaintance who had permission to go hunting at that location told the property owner he saw people there "taking things," according to an affidavit.

A GMC Sierra found parked nearby was determined to have "miscellaneous items" in the truck's bed and interior seating areas.

A GMC Sierra found parked at a property in southern Delaware County on Monday was "loaded down with stolen loot," according to an Indiana DNR Facebook post. Two Muncie residents, including a man found hiding in a wood-burning stove, were arrested on burglary charges

Indiana conservation officers  with a DNR K-9, Marley  arrived at the scene to help Delaware County sheriff's deputies search the property.

Wellington was the first suspect, found in an outbuilding, and maintained she had gone there alone after borrowing Foster's Sierra.

She also claimed she had been given permission to "go onto the property and take things."

Foster was then found hiding in a stove in the same outbuilding. He also maintained he and Wellington had permission to take the property they had loaded into his vehicle.

The property's owner maintained he did not know either Foster or Wellington, and had given no one permission to take his property.

Wellington and Foster were each preliminarily charged with burglary, theft and criminal trespass.

She was being held in the Delaware County jail under a $15,500 bond,

Foster, due to a failure-to-appear warrant stemming from an unrelated case, was being held without bond.

He has been convicted of crimes including domestic battery resulting in moderate bodily injury, and intimidation.

Court records reflect no prior charges against Wellington.

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: Delaware County burglary suspect found hiding in wood-burning stove
A Pennsylvania doctor was taken into custody last week after allegedly sending flyers with antisemitic threats to her ex-boyfriends new girlfriend and setting the girlfriends grandmothers home on fire, Lower Merion police said.

Dr. Amy Cohen, 35, was arrested on 24 charges, including aggravated arson and ethnic intimidation, after allegedly setting fire to the Lower Merion Township home of the 99-year-old woman last month, according to court records.

Police said the investigation began on Nov. 24, when the grandmother told police officers that she had been receiving flyers with antisemitic language that contained specific threats against her granddaughter, who did not live with her in the Philadelphia suburb.

Investigators later learned that other family members in the state received similar flyers, according to the news release.

Local news outlet Philly Voice, citing court documents, reported that the flyer featured photos of the victims granddaughters with their eyes crossed out, warning them to quit their jobs and move out of Pennsylvania.

One of the granddaughters told investigators she had recently shared a pro-Israel statement online. Her parents received flyers that used antisemitic language and accused their daughters of promoting Islamophobia, according to Philly Voice.

Almost a week after the investigation began, officers returned to the grandmothers home, where shed had security cameras installed, according to police.

Video footage allegedly showed a white woman, believed to be Cohen, intentionally setting fire to the front porch at 1:30 a.m. on Nov. 30.

The woman was asleep in her home while Cohen sprayed flammable liquid into the fire to accelerate it, though it eventually burned out, police reported.

Evidence from the scene led investigators to identify Cohen as the suspect. Police said she had been in a relationship with a man who was dating one of the victims granddaughters.

According to Law and Crime, citing a police affidavit, the boyfriend told officers that he began dating the granddaughter in June and had been seeing other people before the two became exclusive months later.

The boyfriend said he broke up with Cohen after dating her for about six months, adding that she did not take it well, according to Law and Crime.

A search warrant was served on Dec. 1 at Cohens home, where detectives said they found evidence connected to the flyers and the fire.

According to Law and Crime, police went to Bryn Mawr Hospital, where Cohen works as an infectious disease specialist. There they said theyfound Cohen wearing a black headband similar to the one seen on the woman shown setting a fire in the security camera footage.

Police also said she had a note pad with the names of several elementary schools in the Philadelphia area. Her exs girlfriend worked as a elementary school teacher, according to Law and Crime.

A spokesperson for Main Line Health, the company that runs Bryn Mawr Hospital, told HuffPost that Cohen had been an affiliate physician and is not employed by Main Line Health.

Related...
Nathaniel Curtis appeared as Isaac Newton in Doctor Who - BBC

I dont know how many viewers still enjoy Doctor Who. But Im sure its producers do. More and more, the show feels like a deeply self-satisfied exercise in Left-wing trolling. You can just picture its producers squealing with glee, as they compete to think of ways to wind up stuffy old Tories.

How about we get an alien to state its preferred pronouns! The Mail will be furious! And how about the Doctor meets Isaac Newton  and develops a gay crush on him! Theyll be so triggered!

But the thing that delighted the producers most of all, I imagine, was a certain piece of casting. Isaac Newton was white. Yet, in last Saturdays Doctor Who, the actor cast to play him was Nathaniel Curtis  who is mixed-race.

Ever since, Left-wing media outlets have been in their element. Doctor Who Upsets Conservatives as Isaac Newton Played by Person of Colour, chortled a typical headline. The Poke, a British satirical website, had great fun mocking anyone who objected. Just look at these silly gammon! Doctor Who is a work of fiction, not a documentary! It isnt meant to be realistic!

True enough. I cant help feeling, though, that these Left-wing outlets are missing the point. The problem is not the casting. Its the hypocrisy. Because if the tables were turned, and a white actor were cast to play a non-white historical character, high-minded progressives would not be giggling at anyone who complained. Far from it. Theyd be apoplectically denouncing it as a racist whitewashing of history.

Of course, I cant strictly prove that, because these days there isnt a chance in hell that a white actor would be cast as a non-white historical figure. It used to happen: for example, in the 1956 film The Conqueror, when John Wayne played the Mongol emperor Genghis Khan. And, that same year, in The Ten Commandments, when Yul Brynner played the Egyptian pharaoh Rameses II.

Today, though, no sane director would dare do such a thing. In our inclusive modern world, casting is meant to be authentic. And not just when it comes to race. In 2018, Scarlett Johansson hastily withdrew from a film after online outrage over her casting. The character shed been hired to play was trans  and therefore, raged her critics, the actor must be trans, too.

Perhaps she should have seen the row coming. Three years earlier, Eddie Redmayne had played a trans woman in The Danish Girl. His performance won him an Oscar nomination. Subsequently, however, the uproar over this piece of inauthentic casting grew to such a furious pitch that he regretted ever agreeing to it. I made that film with the best intentions, but I think it was a mistake, he whimpered, in 2021.

Its not the only time hes been in this type of trouble, either. In 2014, he was cast to play Stephen Hawking  even though Redmayne is able-bodied. We wouldnt accept actors blacking up, thundered a columnist in The Guardian, so why applaud cripping up?

A perfectly fair question. But if, these days, we want casting to be authentic, the rules must apply to every group. Which surely means, for the sake of consistency, that white historical figures should be played by white actors. And if they arent, we at least shouldnt mock those who think they should.

Still, theres no point getting worked up about Doctor Who. After all, its just a bit of light-hearted fun. Anyway, theres another new episode on Saturday, and it may yet surprise us all. Perhaps in this one, the Doctor will travel back in time to meet Mary Seacole, played by Keira Knightley. Or Muhammad Ali, played by Colin Firth.

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.
New Doctor Who. Ncuti Gatwa, with the BBC classic's showrunner, Russell T Davies - Scott Garfitt/SHUTTERSTOCK FOR BAFTA

Russell T Davies has said that new Doctor Who episodes will upset die-hard fans of the science fiction franchise.

The Welsh screenwriter and television producer, 60, discussed the new release, which will be the centrepiece of the BBCs Christmas Day line-up.

Speaking to Radio Times about the special episode, he said: The show is taking a sly step towards fantasy, which will annoy people to whom its a hard science-fiction show.

Episode two next year is wildly fantasy. Completely making up scenarios on screen that weve never been able to show before.

The episode will air at teatime on BBC One on Christmas Day, and has been called a blockbusting adventure.

Quipping about how he got the broadcaster to agree to a show, he said he kicked in the door.

I was just a bit jealous that all those other shows were getting a bigger taste of the pie, so this Christmas, the enemy is goblins, he said.

The Doctor Who Christmas Special marks the first since 2017, although there have been 60th anniversary specials this year starring David Tennant and Catherine Tate.

Davies said the episode will be properly Christmassy from beginning to end.

Ncuti Gatwa, the 31-year-old star of Netflixs Sex Education, will feature as the new Doctor.

Davies said his casting was obvious after the audition blasted him off the face of the earth, adding that he had auditioned women and non-binary people for the role too.

Every new Doctor should be a chance for brand-new viewers to step on board. And I think Ncuti will bring in a new audience, Davies said.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
WASHINGTON  The Justice Department has charged four Russian soldiers with war crimes in connection with the invasion of Ukraine.

Suren Seiranovich Mkrtchyan, Dmitry Budnik and two others whose last names are unknown  who have the first names of Valerii and Nazar  are charged "in connection with their unlawful detainment of a U.S. national in the context of the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine," DOJ said.

The indictment, returned in the Eastern District of Virginia, alleges that the four interrogated, beat and tortured an American victim, threatening to kill him in a mock execution.

Merrick Garland. (Mark Schiefelbein / AP)

After the mock execution, the victim "was forced to perform manual labor, such as digging trenches, on behalf of the Russian Armed Forces and/or [Donetsk People's Republic] military units," the indictment says.

The American, identified only as "V-1" in the indictment, was not involved in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to DOJ. He was living in Mylove, a small village in southern Ukraine, and was kidnapped from his home by Russian soldiers, the indictment says.

As the world has witnessed the horrors of Russias brutal invasion of Ukraine, so has the United States Department of Justice, Attorney General Merrick Garland said. That is why the Justice Department has filed the first-ever charges under the U.S. war crimes statute against four Russia-affiliated military personnel for heinous crimes against an American citizen. The Justice Department will work for as long as it takes to pursue accountability and justice for Russias war of aggression.

Mkrtchyan, Budnik and the two other Russian soldiers are charged with four counts: conspiracy to commit war crimes and three war crimes (unlawful confinement of a protected person, inhuman treatment and torture).

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
TUSCALOOSA, AlabamaWhen Republican presidential contenders meet here Wednesday evening for their fourth televised debate, dont expect them to break precedent and suddenly make an issue of Donald Trumps multiple criminal indictments.

Chris Christie is the exception. Hes made Trumps legal woes the central plank of his underdog bid to topple the Republican frontrunner. But Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley have conscientiously avoided criticizing Trump for allegations that he mishandled classified documents, obstructed justice, and engaged in a conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election. Top campaign advisers and leading super PAC strategists supporting DeSantis and Haley insist to The Dispatch that doing so would boomerang and have the opposite of the intended effect.

These Republicans shared the consensus assessment on condition that their comments not be tied directly to the campaigns or super PACs they work for. But veteran communicator Matt Gormanwho was, until last month, a spokesman for Tim Scotts since-suspended presidential bidexplained the dilemma the partys 2024 candidates have faced. Like DeSantis and Haley, Scott studiously refused to use the former presidents alleged misdeeds as the basis for political attacks.

It doesnt move a single vote in the Republican primaries, Gorman said in an interview. All these pundits love to talk about taking on Trump head on. If it were that simple and theyre so smart, they should go do it. It takes more strategy than running head first into a wall.

Of course, choosing to give Trump a pass on his legally questionable behavior has also had the opposite of the intended effect.

Roughly six weeks before the January 15 Iowa caucuses and seven weeks before the January 23 New Hampshire primary, the former president laps the Republican field nationally, garnering 61.2 percent of the electorates vote, with his lead only growing since indictments started falling. In Iowa, he leads nearest opponent DeSantis, Floridas governor, by 30 points. In New Hampshire, he leads nearest opponent Haley, the former South Carolina governor and ex-U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, by 27 points. (Notably, Trumps chief defender among the Republican candidates, Vivek Ramaswamy, is performing even worse.)

Trump is skipping this latest primetime debatehosted by NewsNation and held on the campus of the University of Alabamajust as he declined to participate in the first three, giving DeSantis and Haley a free shot at making the former presidents criminal indictments into an albatross. Republican operatives dedicated to helping DeSantis and Haley pull off upset victories are adamant such a strategy would be horribly self-defeating, even as 2024s first nominating contests draw closer.

Campaigns are going to behave rationally and its currently not in anyones interest to head down this road, a strategist advising a super PAC said. Added a strategist advising one of the campaigns: Christie sure as hell isnt getting any traction. The former New Jersey governor has attacked Trump relentlessly over his myriad ethical and legal scandals. But in New Hampshire, where Christie has campaigned almost exclusively, hes running third with 11.3 percent.

Politically, Trumps legal picture is complicated.

Virtually all Republicans, even those who oppose the former president, dismiss the indictment filed against him in New York City by District Attorney Alvin Bragg, alleging fraudulent business practices, as politically motivated and without merit, voters and activists have told The Dispatch in interviews. Conversely, the federal indictment for mishandling classified documents and obstructing justice, and a second federal indictment related to Trumps efforts to overturn his loss to now-President Joe Biden, both brought by Special Council Jack Smith, are considered justified by many Republican insiders, according to conversations with them over the last several months.

But many Republican voters generally lump all of the indictments, including the one in Fulton County, Georgia, alleging Trump illegally interfered with the 2020 election there, in the same bucket. They see them as the product of a partisan Department of Justice and an incumbent president who wants to put his strongest opponent in jail before next falls election. Still other GOP voters view the indictments with more nuance but are nonetheless turned off by attacks on Trump because the criticism sounds like that employed by Democrats and the media.

That is why many Republican strategists who are neutral in the primary have concludedjust like their counterparts working for the presidential campaigns and super PACSthat it is counterproductive to pursue this line of attack against Trump. Thats especially the case, they say, because conservative media, where most GOP primary voters get their news, would likely undercut it.

Our base holds the view that the entire federal system is rigged against them. The DOJ, FBI, IRS, and any other three-letter agency you can think of. The Dems have rigged all of it against us. Seriously, this is a nearly universally held belief among our base. Even most GOP primary voters who hate Trump believe this, said a Republican pollster who has conducted dozens of focus groups with Republican voters across the country this year to explore this and other issues.

The number of trials, including New York, only helps feed this point, added this pollster, who is not affiliated with any presidential campaign or super PAC. If the left had pursued just one case, that would likely have been far more credible to Republicans. Indeed, when DeSantis does raise the issue of Trumps indictments or is pressed on the matter by reporters, his comments tend to reflect these suspicionsthat the former president is the victim of an unfair justice system.

The weaponization of federal law enforcement represents a mortal threat to a free society, DeSantis said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, after Trump was indicted in the documents case. We have for years witnessed an uneven application of the law depending upon political affiliation.

Republican voters seem to agree. As explained by a second neutral GOP pollster who has tracked the Republican primary since it began in earnest last winter, the former presidents poll numbers have jumped with each indictment.

Trumps lead over DeSantis was somewhere in the single digits around the time of the first indictment, brought in New York City in April by Bragg. Soon after, that lead improved to around 18 to 20 points, according to the pollster. Then in July, after the first federal indictment was brought against Trump by Smith in the documents case, his lead over DeSantis grew to approximately 35 points. Four indictments in, Trumps lead over the Florida governor is now 48 points.

Heres the other side, the second pollster said. Trump has an insurmountable lead. Why not throw the Hail Mary? Does one of the individual campaigns think the legal thing is the Hail Mary? The data says it wont work.

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Out with MAGA. Fascist for a day should be Donald Trumps new campaign slogan.

The former president wants Americans to think hes not that anti-democratic. Despite vowing to use the White House to go after his political opponents, fire public servants he doesnt like and send the military into American cities, Trump promises he will be your run-of-the-mill commander in chief  except for Day One.

Under no circumstances  you are promising America tonight  you would never abuse power as retribution against anybody? Fox News host Sean Hannity asked the former president Tuesday.

Except for Day One, Trump replied.

I want to close the [U.S. Southern] border, and I want to drill, drill, drill, he went on after Hannity sought clarification.

After that, Im not a dictator.

On the spectrum of bizarre Trump statements, this one ranks along side his recent realization that us is spelled the same as U.S.  I just picked that up, he said at a New Hampshire rally in October. But its a glimpse into the mind of Trump and many of his supporters: Democracy is great but its meant to be used sparingly  only when it yields outcomes in their favor.

Its likely that beyond day one there will be many exceptions to democracy in a second Trump term. Hes signaled he will end the autonomy of federal agencies meant to operate independently, concentrate more power in his own hands, nix employment protections for civil servants who he believes stand in his way and throw out the post-Watergate norm of a Department of Justice thats independent from the White House. Trump has openly mused about directing the DOJ to persecute his political enemies. He promised to repeal birthright citizenship for babies born on U.S. soil to undocumented immigrants even though thats protected under the Constitution.

The prospect of a 2024 Trump election sounds scarier than it did in 2016. The GOP of seven years ago, caught off guard by his election, has transformed into Trumps party. In his first term, Trump had several aides and appointees who tried to stop his undemocratic tendencies. Those safeguards will disappear if he wins again and staffs his administration with loyalists willing to implement his MAGA agenda at all cost.

But its not just Trumps promises that point to his authoritarian tendencies. Trump lied about the results of the 2020 election and tried to overturn it. He incited his supporters to storm the U.S. Capitol to stop the certification of electoral votes on Jan. 6, 2021. He empowered his allies to concoct a fake electors scheme in seven states where they submitted fake documents to Congress asserting he had won reelection. Prosecutors in three of those states have filed charges against Republicans who allegedly participated in this plan. Trump himself has been indicted twice for his efforts to overturn the elections.

Trump, who openly admires dictators and strongmen, has encouraged shooting shoplifters, called his opponents vermin who must be rooted out, accused undocumented immigrants of poisoning the blood of our country and suggested the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff should be executed for treason.

Sure, there are those who will say they dont care what Trump says and only what he does. But Trump has shown us his vision for democracy  and we do not expect it to stop after day one.

Click here to send the letter.
From the Dispatch Politics on The Dispatch

Happy Wednesday! Its debate night in America once again. Sources close to the Vivek Ramaswamy campaign tell The Dispatch the show is going to be lit but decline to elaborate further, so make of that what you will.

Up to Speed

Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the former GOP House speaker ousted by a far-right contingent of his own party in October, announced Wednesday he will not run for reelection to Congress next year and will resign from his House seat at the end of this year. I never could have imagined the journey when I first threw my hat into the ring, McCarthy wrote in a Wall Street Journal op-ed announcing his decision. I go knowing I left it all on the fieldas always, with a smile on my face. The announcement comes one day after Rep. Patrick McHenry, a key McCarthy ally who served as interim speaker after his ouster, said he too would not seek reelection.

North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum announced Monday he is suspending his presidential campaign. While this primary process has shaken my trust in many media organizations and political party institutions, Burgum said in a press release, it has only strengthened my trust in America. Burgum, whose most notable moment as a candidate was his gaming the debate-qualification system by paying people to donate to his campaign, never got out of the low single digits in national or early-state polling.

Negotiations on a bill that would pair aid to Ukraine and Israel with border-security reforms have ground to a stalemate among negotiators in the Senate, with Democrats unwilling to accept immigration changes Republicans say they wont move a bill without. Even many of the most outspoken Ukraine hawks among Senate Republicans have said theyll oppose Bidens $110 billion package when a procedural vote on it comes to the Senate floor today, accusing Democrats of refusing to negotiate in good faith on a compromise package. They want tens of billions of dollars to help our friends and allies overseas, Sen. John Cornyn told the New York Times upon emerging from an abortive negotiating session Tuesday, but theyre not willing to do whats necessary to prevent a potential crisis at the border.

An anonymous group of more than 40 White House interns signed a letter this week criticizing the Biden administrations handling of the Israel-Hamas war and calling for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Our decision to intern for your Administration was driven by our shared values and the profound belief that, under your leadership, America has the potential to be a nation that stands for justice and peace, the interns wrote.

Nikki Haley had her most successful high-dollar fundraiser Monday, bringing in over $500,000 for her campaign from Wall Street backers at a New York event hosted by former Facebook executive Campbell Brown and hedge-funder Dan Senor.

Haleys New Hampshire state director Mak Kehoe is parting ways with the campaign for personal reasons, the Haley campaign said Tuesday. Deputy state director Tyler Clark will take the helm going into next months primary, in a hugely important state for Haley.

Trump Wont Be a Dictator, Except for Day One

Fox News Channel host Sean Hannity interviews Donald Trump before a campaign rally at the Las Vegas Convention Center on September 20, 2018, in Las Vegas, Nevada.(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

As Donald Trumps campaign rhetoric to his base keeps getting more openly authoritarian, much of the rest of the Republican Party has responded with a by-now well-practiced move: downplaying or studiously ignoring it. Youd be hard-pressed to find a better illustration of that phenomenon than an exchange that took place early in Trumps Iowa town hall with Fox News Sean Hannity last night.

First, Hannity played a clip of Trumps now-infamous line from a speech this spring: In 2016, I declared: I am your voice. Today I add: I am your warrior. I am your justice. And for those who have been wronged and betrayed, I am your retribution.

I see what the medias doing nowI put a montage togetherthey want to call you a dictator, Hannity said. I want to be very, very clear on this: To be clear, do you in any way have any plans whatsoever, if reelected president, to abuse power, to break the law, to use the government to go after people?

This is what we in the news business call a softball, and it was plain Hannity intended it as such. Of course not, Sean, thats just the lying fake news again.

But Trump didnt respond like Hannity plainly expected. Heres what he said instead:

You mean like theyre using right now? So in the history of our country, whats happened to us, again, has never happened before. Over nonsense, over nothing, made-up charges. I often say Al Capone, he was one of the greatest of all time, if you like criminals. He was a mob boss the likes of whichScarface, they call him. And he got indicted once, I got indicted four times. I wonder what my father and mother would say looking down.

A few minutes later, Hannity tried again. I want to go back to this one issue though, because the media has been focused on this and attacking you. Under no circumstances, you are promising America tonight you would never abuse power as retribution against anybody?

Except for day one, Trump replied.

Except for?  replied a bemused Hannity. Except for day one, Trump repeated.

Meaning?

Meaning I want to close the border and I want to drill, drill, drill.

Thats notthats not retribution.

I love this guy, Trump grinned to the crowd. He says, youre not gonna be a dictator, are you? I said, no, no, no. Other than day one. Were closing the border and were drilling, drilling, drilling. After that Im not a dictator.

Thatthatthat sounds to me like youre going back to the policies when you were president, Hannity finished.

It hardly needs saying that Trump was, on a certain level, joking around with that last answergleefully leaning into liberal fears that he would act as a dictator in the same way he used to spitball about doing away with presidential term limits. But it still bears noticing: Trump, speaking to a friendly moderator in front of a friendly crowd, offered twice the opportunity to assure them he would remain within the bounds of the law if reelected, chose instead to first double down on his own grievances against his enmities and then to laugh the question off. Hannity, apparently figuring the latter was the best he was going to get, didnt try to extract any more commitments from Trump about abusing power after that.

GOP Candidates Poised to Skate By Trump Legal Troubles Once More

Were down to four GOP presidential contenders who will be taking the debate stage in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, tonight: Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy, and Chris Christie. (Donald Trump qualified too, of course, but as usual is electing not to attend.) With time getting very short before next months Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary, this may be one of the top-tier candidates last best chances to gain some ground against Trumpand one anotherin those early contests.

But dont expect them to go after the former presidents biggest liability: his major legal troubles.

David spent the last few days taking the temperature of top campaign advisers and super PAC strategists for DeSantis and Haley. In a piece for the site today, he outlines how both candidates still think direct shots at Trumps legal troubles would be likelier to boomerang on the one making the attack as to knock any shine off the frontrunner:

Campaigns are going to behave rationally and its currently not in anyones interest to head down this road, a strategist advising a super PAC said. Added a strategist advising one of the campaigns: Christie sure as hell isnt getting any traction. The former New Jersey governor has attacked Trump relentlessly over his myriad ethical and legal scandals. But in New Hampshire, where Christie has campaigned almost exclusively, hes running third with 11.3 percent.

David also spoke to Matt Gorman, erstwhile spokesman for Sen. Tim Scotts recently suspended presidential campaign, whose assessment was largely the same: It doesnt move a single vote in the Republican primaries. All these pundits love to talk about taking Trump head on. If it were that simple and theyre so smart, they should do it. It takes more strategy than running head first into a wall.

Check out the whole piece here.

Notable and Quotable

He is, number one, from your standpoint, cognitivelyyou like to use that word, cognitivelyhes not good. But its not for me to say.

Donald Trump to Sean Hannity on President Joe Bidens mental fitness for office, December 5, 2023

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Former President Donald Trump mocked questions about authoritarianism on Tuesday, saying he would be a dictator only on "day one," and then he's going to close the border and get to drilling.

"After that, I'm not a dictator, OK?" the Republican presidential frontrunner told Fox News host Sean Hannity before a very friendly crowd in Davenport, Iowa.

Trump declined to discuss his pledges of "retribution" against political opponents, including threats to investigate President Joe Biden and others who have criticized him.

Biden and other opponents, including some Republicans, describe Trump as a grave threat to democracy, and this will likely be a huge issue in the 2024 election.

Donald Trump has been telling us exactly what he will do if hes reelected and tonight he said he will be a dictator on day one," said a statement from Julie Chavez Rodriguez, the Biden-Harris campaign manager. "Americans should believe him.

Donald Trump in Iowa over the weekend

The former president and frontrunner for the GOP nomination in 2024 has described some of his opponents as "vermin," a term used by 20th century dictators like Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini.

"If Trump wasn't running, I'm not sure I'd be running, Biden told supporters during a fundraiser Tuesday, adding that he and his supporters cannot let him win.

Mark Esper, a former defense secretary during the Trump administration, told MSNBC that a re-elected Trump will be able to "enact his policy of revenge that hes been talking about, and retribution. And look, its quite a dangerous time for our democracy if that were to happen."

Former U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., who is in the midst of a book tour told CBS News that the nation is "sleepwalking into dictatorship" in the United States.

During the Fox News appearance, Trump attacked Biden and claimed that his supporters are behind the four criminal trials that are pending against him.

Trump also mocked Biden's age and said the president might not be the Democratic nominee. "I personally don't think he makes it," he said.

Fox News billed the event as a "town hall," but no one from the Trump-friendly audience got to ask a question.

The former president has been indicted in two cases involving efforts to overturn the 2020 election. The other two trials deal with improper hush money payments and the mishandling of classified documents.

Trump traveled to Iowa for the Fox News appearance a day before Republican rivals gathered in Tuscaloosa, Ala., for their fourth debate.

Citing his big lead in polls, Trump has skipped all the GOP debates.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump: I'll be a 'dictator' only on 'day one'
Shortly after the opening ceremony of the 2023 United Nations climate negotiations in Dubai, delegates of nations around the world rose in a standing ovation to celebrate a long-awaited agreement to launch a loss and damage fund to help vulnerable countries recover from climate-related disasters.

But the applause might not yet be warranted. The deal itself leaves much undecided and has been met with criticism by climate justice advocates and front-line communities.

I teach global environmental politics and climate justice and have been attending and observing these negotiations for over a decade to follow the demands for just climate solutions, including loss and damage compensation for countries that have done the least to cause climate change.

COP28 President Sultan Ahmed al-Jaber, center, walks with world leaders and representatives of countries to the climate summits opening ceremony. The loss and damage fund was one of the first items approved. Stringer/Anadolu via Getty Images

A brief history of loss and damage

Breakthrough was the term often used to describe the decision at 2022s COP27 climate conference to finally construct a loss and damage fund. Many countries rejoiced at this long-delayed agreement  it came 31 years after Vanuatu, a small archipelago in the Pacific, first proposed compensation for loss and damage for climate-caused sea level rise in earlier negotiations.

The agreement was only a framework, however. Most of the details were left to a transitional committee that met throughout 2023 to forward recommendations on this new fund to COP28. A United Nations report outlined at the committees second meeting found that funding from wealthy nations to help poorer countries adapt to the ravages of climate change grew by 65% from 2019 to 2020, to $US49 billion. Thats still far below the 0 billion to 0 billion the U.N. estimates will be needed annually by 2030.

As the meetings went on, developing nations, long wary of traditional financial institutions use of interest-bearing loans, which have left many low-income countries mired in debt, proposed that the fund be independent. Developed nations, however, insisted the fund be hosted under the World Bank and held up the recommendations until right before COP28.

Devil is in the details

While any deal on funding for climate disaster damages was sure to be portrayed as a historic win, further investigation suggests that it should be welcomed with hesitation and scrutiny.

First, the fund contains no specifics on scale, financial targets or how it will be funded. Instead, the decision merely invites developed nations to take the lead in providing finance and support and encourages commitments from other parties. It also fails to detail which countries will be eligible to receive funding and vaguely states it would be for economic and non-economic loss and damage associated with the adverse effects of climate change, including extreme weather events and slow onset events.

So far, pledges have been underwhelming.

Extensive flooding from extreme rain destroyed homes and livelihoods across Pakistan in 2022. Residents set up tents along a stretch of dry land. Fida Hussain/AFP via Getty Images

Calculations of early commitments total just over US0 million, with Germany and the United Arab Emirates pledging 0 million and the U.K. committing million. The United States, one of the largest climate change contributors, pledged only .5 million in comparison. Its a shockingly low starting point.

Also, any notion that this fund represents liability or compensation by developed countries  a major concern for countries with long histories of carbon pollution  was removed entirely. It in fact notes that loss and damage response is based on cooperation instead.

In a rare win for the developing world, funds were made available  even at subnational and community levels  to all nations, though with yet-undetermined performance indicators.

Additional concern has been raised about the funds interim host  the World Bank. In fact, deciding on a host institution was one of the sticking points that nearly derailed earlier talks.

On one side, the United States and other developed nations insisted the fund be hosted by the World Bank, which has always been led by an American and has historically spread pro-Western policies. Developing countries, however, resisted the World Banks involvement based on their historical experiences with its lending and structural adjustment programs and noting the banks role for years in financing oil and gas exploration as cornerstones of development efforts.

World Bank President Ajay Banga speaks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at COP28 in Dubai on Dec. 2, 2023. Ludovic Marin/AFP via Getty Images

Following a stalemate and U.S. attempts to block a consensus, a compromise was reached to host the fund under the World Bank for four years, with guardrails to ensure its independence and impact. After this window, the host structure will be reviewed, leading to either a fully independent fund or continuation under the World Bank.

The concern for critics with this route is that the compromise risks ending up as a permanent hosting situation.

And there are more issues, such as the fund boards composition, which only allows for national representatives, not civil society representatives such as from Indigenous groups, as developing countries requested. The scope of funding that will be allowed is also still up in the air. In the funds vague state, it opens the door for countries, as part of their loss and damage funding commitments, to count private loans, conditional import credits and even funding from the fossil fuel industry at the same time the industry continues to fuel climate damage.

What happens next, starting in 2024

To date, the international climate community does not have a solid track record when it comes to climate finance promises. Each successive fund  from the Green Climate Fund that supports green projects in the developing world to the Adaptation Fund that builds climate resilience for the most vulnerable nations  has been woefully undersourced from inception.

In 2021, the entire climate finance ecosystem, from national commitments to private investment, totaled 0 billion. Experts indicate that this sum needs to be closer to .3 trillion.

That target represents 20% year-over-year growth until the end of this decade  a significant ramp up from recent years.

From 2011 to 2020, total climate finance grew at just 7% annually. If this trend continues, not only will developing and most vulnerable countries lose faith in this process, but the very need for loss and damage funding will only grow.

The new fund board is mandated to hold its first meeting by Jan. 31, 2024. While this early start time is laudable, droughts will continue killing crops, and storms will continue flooding homes while the new fund engages in another series of meetings to determine who will qualify, how they can apply and how and when funds will actually be dispersed.

Researcher Will Erens, a student at the University of Southern California, contributed to this article.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world.Like this article? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter.

It was written by: Shannon Gibson, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences.

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Shannon Gibson is affiliated with the Global Justice Ecology Project.
Rep. Kevin McCarthy speaks to reporters hours after he was ousted as speaker of the House on Oct. 3. (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press)

Its not surprising that dozens of members of the U.S. House of Representatives are choosing to leave the dysfunctional chamber rather than seek another term. The politics are toxic. The rhetoric is ugly. And it seems that members arent interested in doing much besides fighting the culture wars  and one another.

But we dont believe for a minute thats the reason former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy decided to step down at the end of the month after 17 years in Congress. After all, he helped create the hostile conditions in Congress by toadying to the hard-right Republicans in his conference by, among things, voting to challenge some of the results of the 2020 election and authorizing a baseless inquiry into impeaching President Biden.

Read more: Editorial: Kevin McCarthy played with MAGA fire  and got burned

In the end, however, McCarthy couldn't manage the unruly conference and was deposed in October after a mere nine months in charge. His crime, according to the GOP hard-liners who orchestrated his downfall? Taking the kind of sensible action that Americans expect of their leaders. He's no a tragic hero, though. Just a victim of the MAGA flames he fanned.

Of course, hes bitter about being thrown over for doing his job and overseeing a bipartisan deal to keep the government funded. Of course he feels used by Trump, who didn't help him keep the speaker's job. Of course, hes angry at the extremists who engineered his ouster  enough, allegedly, to sucker-punch one of them in the hallway.

Read more: Who will replace Bakersfield Republican Kevin McCarthy in Congress? Here are possible candidates

McCarthy did the right thing to avoid a government shutdown this year, but as someone who ascended to such heights of power, he should be expected to put service to the nation and his constituents before service to himself. He could have put aside his hurt feelings and indignation to serve the full term he was elected to.

Instead, McCarthy is leaving early, perhaps as a way to strike back at the conference that rejected him (and humiliated him earlier this year through 14 unsuccessful speaker ballots before he was elected). His absence  along with the expulsion of Rep. George Santos (R-New York) last week  means the GOP's already slim majority will become even slimmer.

Read more: Calmes: It's about time Kevin McCarthy finally got out of the House

But his hasty departure also leaves his ever-loyal voters in the Central Valley in the lurch. Gov. Gavin Newsom can call a special election, though it would overlap with the regular election that begins with a primary in March. Either way, his district will be unrepresented for some number of months.

McCarthy made the announcement Wednesday in a Wall Street Journal op-ed, which wraps with this oddly sunny sentiment: "I go knowing I left it all on the field  as always, with a smile on my face. And looking back, I wouldnt have had it any other way."

Really? It's hard to believe he thinks this ending to a once-promising career was the best possible outcome. The former California legislator joined Congress in 2007, one of the Republican rising stars known as the "Young Guns" along with former Rep. Eric Cantor of Virginia and and former Speaker Paul D. Ryan of Wisconsin.

A more honest statement may have read: You wont have Kevin McCarthy to kick around anymore.

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.
Sundays Venezuelan plebiscite to annex disputed territory from neighboring Guyana, with the government of dictator Nicolas Maduro claiming the highest turnout in the history and a 95% approval, is a dangerous development that could camouflage a possible Venezuelan invasion as an act of popular will.

Pre-internet, we would have had to make a trip to the library or crack open the V volume of the family encyclopedia to untangle this one. Now, all the historical records are easy to find.

The boundary squabble started when the colonial Spanish and Dutch empires each held large chunks of South Americas Caribbean coast. When Venezuela won its full independence from Spain in the 1820s under Simon Bolivar, the demarcation line with then-British controlled Guyana to the east was in dispute and so it festered, with Venezuela claiming ever since what amounted to more than two-thirds of the territory.

In 1895, the U.S. got involved under President Grover Cleveland, who invoked the Monroe Doctrine to defend a fellow New World republic, Venezuela, from bullying by Britain, a leading world power with the biggest navy afloat. It was the first time the U.S. took on such a high profile in international affairs, which is why we recall learning about it in our high school U.S. history class.

There was a five-man commission to settle the matter, with very big shots on the panel. The two Americans (representing Venezuela) were the chief justice of the United States and another justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. The Brits had the lord chief justice of England and the lord justice of appeal. The neutral tie-breaker was a Russian judge. The commission in 1899, in Paris, found mostly for Britain and the crisis ended, but Venezuela stewed.

As Britain was preparing to grant Guyana independence a half century ago, there was a new agreement with Venezuela, in 1966, that acknowledged that Venezuela rejected the 1899 commission, but that there would be further discussions.

Eventually the UN secretary-general turned it over to the World Court, with Guyana asking the court a few years ago to uphold the 1899 border. The court agreed to hear the case, but Maduro doesnt want the World Court involved and so he organized Sundays referendum asking Venezuelans to say yes to five questions.

We dont know if Maduro used the same mysterious Dominion Voting Systems that Donald Trump claimed that Maduros dead predecessor Hugo Chavez manipulated from the grave in 2020.

The first question was: Do you agree to reject by all means in accordance with the law, the line fraudulently interposed by the 1899 Paris Arbitration Award, which seeks to deprive us of our Guayana Esequiba?

Other questions rejected the World Courts jurisdiction and asked if a new Venezuelan state on the disputed territory held by Guyana should be declared. Maduro says that his countrymen are all in favor. Guyana doesnt get a say in being swallowed.

ExxonMobils discovery of a major oil field offshore of course has nothing to with Maduros interest. Hey, Maduro could add to Venezuelas immense oil riches and destroy the economy in the annexed territory as hes done with his own.

Venezuelas population is 29 million (and more than 7 million of them are refugees). Tiny Guyana has 800,000 people. In the 1890s, Britain was the bully, but whos the bully now?

___
Gov. Ron DeSantis had support from some law enforcement officials, including Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, when he announced his suspension of prosecutor Monique Worrell in August.

TALLAHASSEE  An attorney for an elected Democratic prosecutor in Central Florida, removed by Gov. Ron DeSantis for what he called her political agenda, argued Wednesday before the state Supreme Court that justices should reinstate Monique Worrell to her position.

DeSantis has turned Worrells ouster in August, coming a year after he similarly suspended Democratic Hillsborough County State Attorney Andrew Warren, into a major part of his now-underdog campaign for the Republican presidential nomination.

DeSantis has promoted his actions as proof of his tough approach to law and order.

In a recent debate, the governor pledged that, if elected to the White House, he would go after left-wing, Soros-funded prosecutors, linking Warren and Worrell, without evidence, to George Soros, the billionaire Democratic investor and frequent target of conservative and antisemitic tropes.

Warren and Worrell were both suspended after records showed DeSantis directed staff to search for prosecutors who could be portrayed as going easy on criminals.

Warren is still appealing his suspension in federal court. Worrell, who was the states lone Black elected state attorney, said outside the court following arguments Wednesday that much was riding on her case.

Presidential campaign was motive, Worrell says

She also focused on DeSantis.

If you are running for president, you will do things, you will enact certain laws, you will appoint certain individuals in furthering of your presidential campaign, even if it directly conflicts with your duty to protect and serve the people of this state, Worrell said.

In court, Laura Ferguson, attorney for Worrell, argued that DeSantis had no legitimate grounds for issuing an executive order removing her as state attorney for Orange and Osceola counties.

The order does not allege any conduct by Ms. Worrell that even if proven at a Senate trial would constitute neglect of duty or incompetence, Ferguson told justices.

State attorneys are constitutional officers ... invested with substantial independence and discretion and subject to limited supervision even by the state attorney general, she added. They are accountable to the voters. And because theyre elected and not appointed, they do not serve at the discretion of the governor.

But Jeffrey DeSousa, chief deputy solicitor general, defended DeSantis, even as he argued that the Florida Senate  not the Supreme Court  is where Worrell should appeal her removal. DeSousa urged justices to dismiss her case.

Governor 'properly suspended' attorney says

The governor properly suspended Ms. Worrell from office because the practices and policies she adopted as state attorney had contravened the legislative policies and simultaneously resulted in the gross underperformance of her office, relative to all other state attorneys, DeSousa said.

DeSantis in his order said Worrell had discouraged attorneys in her office from seeking minimum mandatory sentences for offenders accused of gun crimes and drug trafficking, while also letting juveniles avoid serious charges and prison time.

Ferguson, though, said DeSantis offered nothing to back up his allegations.

Her duty as a prosecutor is to exercise her duty within the bounds of the law and to look at each case on an individual basis, she said.

DeSantis lawyer: Too many 'down-charged' cases

DeSousa, however, argued that Worrell had down-charged cases, which could be viewed as violating the intent of the governor and state Legislature. The 9th Judicial Circuit where she served as state attorney also failed to send offenders to prison at a rate near the levels of other circuits, DeSousa said.

It really is an abysmal record and if we had nothing else, if there was nothing specific that she was doing and was just ineffective at prosecuting crime, we think that would be enough, DeSousa told the court.

Five of Floridas seven justices have been appointed by DeSantis. But one of those who preceded the governor to the court, Justice Jorge Labarga, challenged DeSousa. Labarga, who earlier served as both an assistant public defender and prosecutor, said state attorneys must have the authority to weigh what criminal charges to bring, based on evidence, witnesses and other factors.

What we are doing here today is placing a chilling effect on prosecutors in making a decision, Labarga said. He added that prosecutors will be left to question, let me take something ... send this guy for two or three years in prison, at least get that out of it.

Or I better go ahead and just take it to trial and fly the airplane against the mountain. Because if I dont do that, the governors going to fire me,  he added.

Labarga: Prosecutors now better call governor

Labarga said prosecutors would have to call the governor or the governors general counsel or whoever and say Look, this is what I need to do here. Is that OK with you, governor?

DeSousa replied, Of course not. But he again argued that the Florida Senate is where the review of the suspension should take place.

Justice Charles Canady seemed to say as much as he jousted, at one point, with Ferguson. The governor's executive order "makes assertions" about Worrell's performance, he said.

"It makes allegations," Canady said. "It doesn't have to prove (them). We know that's what the trial in the Senate's for ... But that's not for us to figure out. We don't make factual determinations."

When Worrell was suspended DeSantis suspends second Democratic prosecutor after Andrew Warren. Who is Monique Worrell?

Trump and DeSantis agree.. DeSantis' ouster of state attorney to be reviewed by court, while Trump plots own revenge

Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, wrote in a memo to senators this fall that the chamber would not consider next steps in Worrells case until the final determination of her court challenge and any subsequent appeal.

Worrell said she plans on running for re-election next year. She has been replaced by former Orange County judge Andrew Bain, who DeSantis appointed.

Warren was removed after joining with more than 80 prosecutors around the country signing a pledge that they would not prosecute people who seek or provide abortions or transgender health care.

Warren who is also considering running again for his old job, had fought back with a federal lawsuit, challenging his removal. U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle in January ruled his suspension violated the Florida Constitution and U.S. Constitution, but that he was powerless to reinstate him.

Warren is appealing that portion of Hinkles ruling. As is their custom, the justices did not say when they will release an opinion in Worrell's case.

John Kennedy is a reporter in the USA TODAY Networks Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jkennedy2@gannett.com. Follow him on X at @JKennedyReport.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Democratic prosecutor suspended by DeSantis asks court to put her back
When most people hear about electroconvulsive therapy, or ECT, it typically conjures terrifying images of cruel, outdated and pseudo-medical procedures. Formerly known as electroshock therapy, this perception of ECT as dangerous and ineffective has been reinforced in pop culture for decades  think the 1962 novel-turned-Oscar-winning film One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest, where an unruly patient is subjected to ECT as punishment by a tyrannical nurse.

Despite this stigma, ECT is a highly effective treatment for depression  up to 80% of patients experience at least a 50% reduction in symptom severity. For one of the most disabling illnesses around the world, I think its surprising that ECT is rarely used to treat depression.

Contributing to the stigma around ECT, psychiatrists still dont know exactly how it heals a depressed persons brain. ECT involves using highly controlled doses of electricity to induce a brief seizure under anesthesia. Often, the best description youll hear from a physician on why that brief seizure can alleviate depression symptoms is that ECT resets the brain  an answer that can be fuzzy and unsettling to some.

As a data-obsessed neuroscientist, I was also dissatisfied with this explanation. In our newly published research, my colleagues and I in the lab of Bradley Voytek at UC San Diego discovered that ECT might work by resetting the brains electrical background noise.

Listening to brain waves

To study how ECT treats depression, my team and I used a device called an electroencephalogram, or EEG. It measures the brains electrical activity  or brain waves  via electrodes placed on the scalp. You can think of brain waves as music played by an orchestra. Orchestral music is the sum of many instruments together, much like EEG readings are the sum of the electrical activity of millions of brain cells.

Two types of electrical activity make up brain waves. The first, oscillations, are like the highly synchronized, melodic music you might hear in a symphony. The second, aperiodic activity, is more like the asynchronous noise you hear as musicians tune their instruments. These two types of activities coexist in the brain, together creating the electrical waves an EEG records.

Importantly, tuning noises and symphonic music shouldnt be mistaken for one another. They clearly come from different processes and serve different purposes. The brain is similar in this way  aperiodic activity and oscillations are different because the biology driving them is distinct.

This diagram shows two EEG readings: One signal contains slow neural oscillations and the other contains only aperiodic activity. Although these signals can be tricky to visually distinguish, certain data analysis methods can help tease them apart. Sydney Smith, CC BY-ND

However, the methods neuroscientists have traditionally used to analyze these signals are unable to differentiate between the oscillations (symphony) and the aperiodic activity (tuning). Both are critical for the orchestra, but so far neuroscientists have mostly ignored  or entirely missed  aperiodic signals because they were thought to be just the brains background noise.

In our new research, my team and I show that ignoring aperiodic brain activity likely explains the confusion behind about how ECT treats depression. It turns out weve been missing this signal all along.

Connecting aperiodic activity and ECT

Since the 1940s, ECT has been associated with increases in slow oscillations in the brain waves of patients. However, those slow oscillations have never been linked to how ECT works. The degree to which slow oscillations appear is not consistently related to how much symptoms improve following ECT. Nor have ideas about how the brain produces slow oscillations connected those processes to the pathology underlying depression.

Because these two types of brain waves are difficult to separate in measurements, I wondered if these slow oscillations were in fact incorrectly measured aperiodic activity. Returning to our orchestra analogy, I believed that scientists had misidentified the tuning sounds as symphony music.

To investigate this, my team and I gathered three EEG datasets: one from nine patients with depression undergoing ECT in San Diego, another from 22 patients in Toronto receiving ECT and a third from 22 patients in Toronto participating in a clinical trial of magnetic seizure therapy, or MST, a newer alternative to ECT that starts a seizure with magnets instead of electricity.

We found that aperiodic activity increases by more than 40% on average following ECT. In patients who received MST treatment, aperiodic activity increases more modestly, by about 16%. After accounting for changes in aperiodic activity, we found that slow oscillations do not change much at all. In fact, slow oscillations were not even detected in some patients, and aperiodic activity dominated their EEG recordings instead.

How ECT treats depression

But what does aperiodic activity have to do with depression?

A long-standing theory of depression states that severely depressed patients have too few of a type of brain cell called inhibitory cells. These cells can turn other brain cells on and off, and maintaining the balance of these on and off states is critical for healthy brain function. This balance is particularly relevant for depression because the brains ability to turn cells off plays an important role in how it responds to stress, a function that, when not working properly, makes people particularly vulnerable to depression.

Using a mathematical model of cell type-based electrical activity, I linked increases in aperiodic activity, like those seen in the ECT patients, to a huge change in the activity of these inhibitory cells. This change in aperiodic activity may be restoring the crucial on and off balance in the brain to a healthy level.

Even though scientists have been recording EEGs from ECT patients for decades, this is the first time that brain waves have been connected to this particular brain malfunction.

Altogether, though our sample size is relatively small, our findings indicate that ECT and MST likely treat depression by resetting aperiodic activity and restoring the function of inhibitory brain cells. Further study can help destigmatize ECT and highlight new directions for the research and development of depression treatments. Listening to the nonmusical background noise of the brain could help solve other mysteries, like how the brain changes in aging and in illnesses like schizophrenia and epilepsy.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and analysis to help you make sense of our complex world.

It was written by: Sydney E. Smith, University of California, San Diego.

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Sea of Love star Ellen Barkin has claimed she was thrown off her SAG-AFTRA-sponsored health insurance.

The 69-year-old actor, who has been a contributing member of the Screen Actors Guild  American Federation of Television and Radio Artists for the past 40 years, said it was because residuals dont count as earnings for seniors.

I was just informed that I was thrown off my SAGAFTRA health insurance because residuals dont count as earnings for seniors.seniors who need it most, Barkin wrote on X.

Residuals are payments made over the long term to screen and theatrical actors from reruns or additional airings of a TV or movie after its original release. The demand for increased streaming residuals was one of the biggest issues of the recently resolved actors strike.

According to SAG-AFTRAs website, members over the age of 65 must meet the Eligibility Threshold (currently $25,950) in Covered Earnings during your 12-month Base Earnings Period.

You must have at least some sessional earnings reported; if you do, both sessional and residual earnings are included toward the Eligibility Threshold, it adds.

The coverage guidelines do not stipulate that members below the age of 65 need sessional earnings to be eligible.

When asked by someone in the comments if this meant an actor can never really retire if they want to maintain SAG-AFTRA coverage, Barkin responded: Exactly what it means.

I was just informed that I was thrown off my SAGAFTRA health insurance because residuals dont count as earnings for seniors.seniors who need it most.  Ellen Barkin (@EllenBarkin) December 5, 2023

The Independent has contacted SAG-AFTRA for comment.

Barkins latest role was playing Lilly McDermott, the nefarious mother-in-law to Adam DeVines straight-laced bank manager Owen Browning in the 2023 action-comedy The Out-Laws.

She also guest-starred as Kathleen Townsend, the main villain, on an episode of Rian Johnsons 2023 debut TV series, Poker Face, which stars Natasha Lyonne as a vagabond with an extraordinary ability to detect lies.

In 2022, Barkin was called on to testify on behalf of Amber Heard in the high-profile defamation case brought against her by her ex-husband Johnny Depp.

The Drop Dead Gorgeous actor claimed that Depp had supplied her with Quaalude drug before they had sex for the first time.

He came on to me in the living room of my house, pulled me onto his lap and said something like, Oh, come on Ellen, or whatever, Barkin said in her video deposition. I protested a little and then  not too much. And that was that.

The Pirates of the Caribbean star ultimately won his highly publicised trial against Heard, with a jury finding that Heard had defamed Depp on all three counts. He was awarded $10m (8m) in compensatory damages and $5m (4m) in punitive damages.

Heard was awarded $2m (1.6m) in compensatory damages, but no punitive damages.
Grok Pot

Elon Musk is looking to raise a cool billion to fund his foulmouthed new artificial intelligence chatbot, which he's building at a new venture called xAI.

A new Securities and Exchange Commission filing made under the billionaire's name claims that xAI has already raised $135 million from four unnamed investors.

Notably, the filing claims that its first sale of shares was made on November 29, which was the day the owner of the site formerly known as Twitter took to the stage at New York's Jazz at Lincoln Center and told advertisers to "go fuck" themselves.

News of xAI's fundraising comes after two of the worst press weeks in Musk's turbulent career, spurred on entirely by the man himself via his insistent cosigning of an antisemitic tweet, a report by a media watchdog about X-formerly-Twitter's penchant for hosting big-brand ads astride white supremacist content, and yet another advertiser exodus as companies attempt to distance themselves from the increasingly toxic site.

PC Police

Musk has been talking about building his own "anti-woke" chatbot that's now called Grok for most of the past year  a press cycle dominated by OpenAI, which he helped cofound in 2015 and was ousted from in 2018. At one point, he even told former Fox News host Tucker Carlson that he wanted to call his politically incorrect AI "TruthGPT," though that name appears to have been struck in favor of a different sort of derivativeness ("grok" is an overused term originating in a book by the politically polarizing accused fascist Robert Heinlein, roughly meaning "to understand profoundly.")

Last month, a select few paid X subscribers were granted access to Grok, and it's been clear from the jump that the whole endeavor is an exercise in cringe. As screenshots of its fledgling interactions show, the chatbot's vulgarity often comes off as "boomer humor," a term used by OpenAI's own notorious CEO Sam Altman that seemed to utterly trigger his former business partner Musk.

According to Musk's own statement, Grok apparently "has real-time access" to X's data, which media commentator Ed Zitron describes as a "form of digital inbreeding that will continually train its model on the data of a website that, other than being a deeply-unreliable source of information, is beset with spam."

In other words, Musk is building an ouroboros of bullshit, and he's asking for more than $800 million more dollars to do so.

It's hard to tell what's worse: that he's making his idiotic AI now of all times, or that four investors have already seen fit to put forth $135 million to make it happen.

More on Musk: Elon Musk Kicks Off Feud With Paris Hilton
Parallel session of 5th World Media Summit opens in southwest China

Xinhua) 16:50, December 05, 2023

KUNMING, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- The 5th World Media Summit (Yunnan, China) and the 2nd Yunnan International Communication Forum held an opening ceremony Tuesday in the southwestern Chinese city of Kunming, Yunnan Province.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Wang Ning, secretary of the Yunnan Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China, said that with more international media outlets covering Yunnan in recent years, Yunnan has been brought closer to the rest of the world.

Noting that the province is a window into understanding a credible, appealing and respectable China, Wang encouraged the guests to take advantage of this summit to discover more compelling stories about the place.

Lyu Yansong, editor-in-chief of Xinhua News Agency, said in his keynote speech that Xinhua has delivered in-depth news coverage to show the progress and philosophy of Chinese modernization, narrated the stories of China's development and achievements in the new era to a global audience, and reported on the practical endeavors of countries worldwide as they progress in their modernization initiatives.

He expressed the hope to enhance collaboration and deepen understanding with media organizations around the world to advance the modernization of the entire human society through collaborative efforts.

Siddharth Chatterjee, the United Nations resident coordinator in China, delivered a speech to the ceremony via video. Dmitry Kiselev, director general of the Rossiya Segodnya international media group, and other international guests also delivered remarks at the ceremony. These speakers agreed that the media has important responsibilities in promoting the exchange and mutual learning among civilizations, as well as the realization of modernization for human society.

They stated their willingness to learn more about China's practice of harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature in its pursuit of modernization and to promote mutual understanding and friendship among people of all countries.

At the opening ceremony, a document titled "Kunming Initiative for the 5th World Media Summit" was adopted, and a thematic event showcasing the province's rich culture was launched.

The 5th World Media Summit (Yunnan, China), running until Friday, was co-hosted by Xinhua and the provincial government. It has attracted more than 300 representatives of around 80 institutions, including media outlets, international organizations and think tanks, from nearly 30 countries and regions.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
(Bloomberg) -- The European Union proposed delaying by three years tariffs on electric vehicles traded with the UK that are set to kick in on Jan. 1, in a win for carmakers that warned the rules would unnecessarily hurt their operations.

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This is a one-off extension that will not be possible in the future, Maros Sefcovic, the EU chief for post-Brexit relations with the UK, told reporters Wednesday. He said the proposed change to the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement applies only to the one narrowly defined sector and is not part of a broader renegotiation of the deal.

The EUs executive arm also said it would provide funding of up to 3 billion ($3.2 billion) over the next three years to support European battery makers.

This new instrument will provide support, possibly as a fixed premium to the European manufacturers of the most sustainable batteries creating important spill-over effects on the entire value chain, Sefcovic said.

Under current post-Brexit arrangements to be phased in from Jan. 1, EVs moving between the UK and the European Union would draw a 10% duty if less than 45% of their value comes from the region, with the policy meant to encourage development of Europes battery supply chain.

But carmakers, the UK and the vast majority of EU member states had been pushing to delay the measure until 2027 because local cell supply isnt ready. France has long resisted a straightforward extension, preferring instead alternatives to mitigate the impact of the tariffs on the industry. Paris had signaled in recent weeks that it was open to finding a flexible solution.

This balanced proposal provides much-needed predictability and stability to EU car and battery makers at a time of fierce global competitive pressure, Valdis Dombrovskis, the EUs trade chief, said in a statement Wednesday. It is the result of intense engagement with industry across the entire EV supply chain and with trade unions, which had expressed concern about rules that would have seen tariff barriers hit our EV exports to the U.K., our largest export market.

The recommendation for a three-year delay needs to be approved by EU capitals first, and then followed by a joint decision with the British government.

Read more: EU Set to Propose Three-Year Delay to Tariffs on UK EV Trade

Swedish EV battery maker Northvolt AB praised the proposed EU extension as a strong strategic move. If used correctly, this mechanism could further fuel the race towards creating more sustainable and circular batteries, giving Europe a competitive edge while also moving towards realizing the goals of the Paris agreement, Anders Thor, the companys vice president for communications, said in an emailed statement.

European carmakers called on EU member states to approve the deal quickly, saying it will protect jobs and benefit consumers.

Failure to approve the proposal would result in reduced competitiveness of our exports, Sigrid de Vries, the executive director of the European Automobile Manufacturers Associations said in a statement on the groups website. It would also have a negative knock-on impact on demand for European batteries and battery materials.

--With assistance from Lyubov Pronina, Rafaela Lindeberg, Wilfried Eckl-Dorna and Jamie Nimmo.

(Updates with carmaker reaction in final two paragraphs)

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
(Bloomberg) --

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European Union leaders will arrive in China later this week with a tough message: Time is running out for Beijing to address a list of economic grievances before the bloc is forced to react.

Trade will top the agenda when European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel, who runs gatherings of the EUs 27 leaders, meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and premier Li Qiang on Thursday.

In their first in-person summit with China in four years, the EU officials will seek tangible progress on long-standing issues ranging from data flows to market access, according to people familiar with the blocs plans.

The EU will also ask for more effort cracking down on Moscows ability to circumvent sanctions as China has emerged as Russias primary route to secure banned technologies and so-called battleground goods. But the bloc is remaining realistic about the outcomes, with no specific deliverable expected, they said.

Meanwhile, the EU expects Beijing to raise concerns about an ongoing anti-subsidies investigation into electric vehicles made in China and the blocs economic security strategy, said the people, who spoke about the non-public agenda on condition of anonymity.

The EU is concerned that Beijings flagging economic recovery including weak domestic demand will result in China pushing to export even more, threatening critical industries in Europe and their workers. The EUs trade deficit with China grew to more than $400 billion last year and the bloc is eager to continue its strategic approach that views Beijing as a partner, competitor and a rival.

The issue is of critical importance to the EU, which counts Beijing as one of its most important trade partners, and in particular for Germany, for whom China is the biggest market for carmakers including Volkswagen AG. China for its part has been more open to dialog with the bloc, not wanting to inflame an economic relationship worth $900 billion, especially as an economic slowdown at home deflates expectations it will ever overtake the US as No. 1.

A spokesperson from the European Commission didnt reply to a request for comment; the European Council declined comment.

China is still moving up the economic ladder, and the EU is losing value added in its exports, said Alicia Garcia Herrero, a senior fellow at Bruegel, a think tank in Brussels. China is not to blame, but of course there are some issues for which the EU could blame China.

Von der Leyen and Michel will look to reassure Chinas leaders that its so-called de-risking plans are about reducing dependencies in industries such as pharmaceuticals, electronics and defense. Thats a tough sell given that it also means discouraging Chinese investments in critical domestic infrastructure, and reducing the chance that European know-how and advanced technologies are used for military purposes by rivals.

For some supplies in those sectors, EU imports from China are as high as 90%, the people said. Beijing recently restricted exports of gallium, germanium and some graphite on security grounds. The two senior EU officials will recall that in addition to working on the resilience of its supply chains in critical areas, the EU has identified a list of sensitive technologies that could be subject to controls in the future.

Chinas focus will be on pushing back against the EUs de-risking drive, which Beijing sees as akin to an attempt to decouple economic ties, analysts said. Beijing could offer compromises on issues like data flows and climate change co-operation but is unlikely to change its stance on economic policy, such as subsidies to industry which it sees as part of its economic development strategy.

I dont think China welcomes either de-risking, or decoupling. China is aware of the EUs de-risking, and they are trying to engage with it economically, said Lucie Qian Xia, lecturer on Chinese international relations at Oxford University. They would appreciate normalizing economic engagement back to pre-Covid levels.

Beijing is expected to bring grievances of its own to the table, starting with complaints about the EUs probe into EVs  especially its decision to only sample Chinese manufacturers, rather than also include Tesla Inc. and European carmakers that operate joint ventures in China and export from there.

The aim of the ongoing investigation is to determine whether, and the degree to which, China has subsidized manufacturers, and to take any necessary countervailing measures such as tariffs to level the playing field for the EUs industry.

The sampled firms have been selected because they are highly representative of the EV sector in China, the people said. The decision doesnt mean that carmakers like Tesla would be spared from any tariffs that emerge from the probe, as they and others could be hit with a weighted average of the duties imposed on the sample.

The EU will make clear that its following due process and carmakers have been invited to collaborate. The probe is part of the EUs efforts to shield its firms from unfair subsidies and growing concerns about Chinese overcapacity in clean-energy technologies that leads to Beijing pushing those goods onto foreign markets.

With EV imports from China growing fast, the EU is keen to avoid intervening before its too late. Several Chinese EV brands already had an 8% market share in the EU last year and that figure is expected to nearly double in the next two years. The same isnt happening in the US because the Trump administration put a 25% tariff on Chinese EVs and the Biden White House has maintained it.

War Talks

The Israel-Hamas war and Russias invasion of Ukraine will also feature prominently on the summits agenda.

Chinas position on Russias war against Ukraine has not changed much over the course of the fighting since the February 2022 invasion. Though it positions itself as a neutral broker and hasnt provided Russia with lethal aid, Beijing is seen by the EU to lean toward Russias side and to have done little to pressure the Kremlin to end its act of aggression.

A key EU ask will be to demand that Beijing does more to curb Moscows ability to circumvent western sanctions on high-priority goods and technologies that it uses in weapons or arms production.

More than 80% of Russias foreign purchases of those high-priority items are now coming from China and Hong Kong, Bloomberg previously reported.

--With assistance from Tom Hancock, Jorge Valero and Colum Murphy.

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The European Union is warning of a huge risk of terrorist attacks this holiday season amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East between Israel and Hamas, while the FBI director said the U.S. agency is working around the clock to prevent attacks on Americans.

European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson on Tuesday said security is a major concern for the 27-nation bloc following a knife attack in Paris this weekend, which killed a German tourist and injured two other people.

With the war between Israel and Hamas, and the polarization it causes in our society, with the upcoming holiday season, there is a huge risk of terrorist attacks in the European Union, Johansson said.

Johansson added that 30 million euros (about $32 million) will be made available to safeguard places of worship, among other things.

Meanwhile, FBI Director Christopher Wray said his agency is taking steps to protect Americans from any threats following Hamas October attack on southern Israel, which led Israel to launch a large-scale retaliation in Gaza.

Given the steady drumbeat of calls for attacks by foreign terrorist organizations since Oct. 7, were working around the clock to identify and disrupt potential attacks by those inspired by Hamas horrific terrorist attacks in Israel, he told the Senate Judiciary Committee.

In a prepared statement, Wray said the most likely threat to Americans, and particularly Jewish, Muslim and Arab American communities, is lone offenders inspired by or reacting to the war.

Wray added that while there is concern that Hamas supporters could engage in violence on behalf of the militant group, so far there has been nothing to suggest that Hamas has the intent or capability to conduct operations inside the U.S. Still, he added that we cannot, and do not, discount that possibility.

He also pleaded with lawmakers to not allow Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act to expire at the end of this month. The program allows the U.S. to monitor the communications of targeted foreigners outside the country without a warrant, which Wray said is crucial as the U.S. is dealing with multiple threats at once.

Ive never seen a time where all the threats or so many of the threats are all elevated, all at exactly the same time, he said.
MILAN and WARSAW, Poland  Recently elected leaders in Slovakia and the Netherlands are tempering the anti-Ukraine rhetoric that elevated them to victory during their campaigns, as the stakes of antagonizing their Western allies by halting military support to Kyiv are too high, experts say.

Following the September victory of the Russia-friendly party of Slovakias new Prime Minister, Robert Fico, concerns emerged regarding the fate of Bratislavas supply of military aid to Ukraine.

US to announce fresh weapons aid for Ukraine as Congress is stalled

The Slovak authorities have donated, among other things, MiG-29 fighters, mine clearance systems, air-to-air missiles, ammunition and self-propelled artillery to their invaded neighbor.

Shortly after it was sworn in, Ficos new Cabinet rejected the outgoing governments latest draft of military supplies to Ukraine, which planned to send rockets and further ammunition to the embattled country.

Regardless of the politicians tough pre-election narrative of not a single round for Ukraine, his flagship electoral slogan, Bratislava has yet to halt its defense cooperation with Kyiv.

During a NATO meeting held last week, Ukraines Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba thanked his Slovak counterpart Juraj Blanr for his governments continued involvement in helping Ukraine repel Russian forces.

I am grateful to my Slovak counterpart for confirming that defense industry cooperation among our companies will continue, and that the repair hub in Slovakia [to service Ukrainian weapons] will also maintain operations, Kuleba said, as quoted in a statement released by his ministry.

Blanar made similar remarks, noting that the Slovak government will continue to support Ukraine, and is looking for ways to continue training Ukrainian soldiers.

Local media have also reported that Ukraine has also shown an interest in acquiring more Slovak-made Zuzana 2 self-propelled howitzers manufactured by Konstruka Defense, of which Slovakia has already delivered eight.

Four factors shaping European defense in 2024 and beyond

Experts explain that these developments suggest that the Fico government will likely strive to balance the pro-Moscow sympathies of his voters against the broader expectations of Slovakias allies.

For Fico to satisfy some of his domestic promises, it is in his interest to shift more towards the mainstream privately and elevate his values as a reliable player in Brussels with other leaders so he can cash in later more pressing priorities, Roger Hilton, defense fellow at the Bratislava-based think tank GLOBSEC said. These may include unlocking EU funds or getting a greater say in other policy areas like migration.

Moreover, the seemingly contradictory rhetoric, compared to that of the election campaign, should be taken with the caveat that Slovakia doesnt possess many of the weapons Ukraine wants, Hilton added.

Making this shift in private is even easier for the government on the NATO level, when you consider that Slovakia has very little transformation stock left to provide Ukraine.  Fico can walk back his campaign talk without fear of having to give up anything in public, Hilton said.

Meanwhile, in Amsterdam, the far-right Party for Freedom (PVV) of Geert Wilders won the largest number of seats in the countrys parliament last month, sparking similar fears as Ficos victory of a potential abrupt end to Ukraine aid.

Since the election, Wilders, whose past praise of Vladimir Putin has earned him a reputation of a Kremlin-friendly populist, has launched talks with other parties to form a coalition cabinet.

The politician has said he is willing to compromise and tone down some of his more extreme policies as to gain greater support from other parties, according to a report from the Financial Times.

Forming a new government promises to be lengthy as well as complex process, and ultimately may result in Wilders not becoming prime minister, as the ruling party has declined to form a coalition with the PVV under his leadership.

Should Wilders become part of any new cabinet, it could impact assistance to Ukraine. The PVV is against the sending of F-16s for example, arguing that doing so detracts from the defense of the Netherlands, Davis Ellison, strategic analyst at the Hague Centre for Strategic Studies said. There are quite possibly some very real implications coming from this election.

Other experts are more confident about the future of Dutch military assistance to Kyiv, as they argue a majority of parties are in favor of its continuity.

The only two political forces, including the PVV, which intend to halt the delivery of weapons and ammunition to Kyiv represent 40 out of the 150 seats in the lower chamber, [as such] its unlikely that other parties will accept the PVVs intent to stop these, Dick Zandee, head of the security and defense program at the Dutch think tank Clingendael Institute said.
Silicon Valley Assemblymember Evan Low is running for Congress, hoping to succeed longtime Rep. Anna Eshoo in a crowded field of competitors. Low confirmed to San Jose Spotlight he filed paperwork for the House of Representatives District 16 seat on Monday, making official a bid for the role hes been rumored to be pursuing since Eshoo announced last month her plans to retire at the end of this term.

I am incredibly excited about this opportunity, Low told San Jose Spotlight.

If elected, Low would become the first LGBTQ and Chinese-American representative in Congress from the Bay Area. Low, 40, said he planned a calm, relaxing time with family the week of Thanksgiving  but when Eshoo confirmed her seat would be opening up he had to consider the opportunity to run. Eshoo has served her three-decade tenure in Congress with distinction and deliverable results, Low said.

Thrill Kill murderer released back into Santa Clara County

Those will be big shoes to fill, but Im excited and fortunate to have that opportunity, being that I was born and raised here in this district, and was fortunate enough to serve as mayor in the local community and then in the state Legislature, Low said.

Low snagged a key endorsement from neighboring Rep. Ro Khanna, of Californias 17th congressional district, who said in a statement hes proud to back Lows forward-looking campaign. Backing from Khanna  a prominent Silicon Valley Democrat with a national profile and strong fundraising chops  could be a pivotal in a highly-competitive race for the rare opportunity to go to Congress.

Evan was born and raised here in the Silicon Valley, and hes dedicated his career to serving the diverse families that call it home, Khanna said. In the Assembly, hes been at the forefront of bridging the gap between technology, innovation, and public policy, building a greener economy, and fighting for fundamental human rights. I know Evan will make a great partner in Congress.

Voters elected Low to the state Assembly in 2014. He served as the past chair of the LGBTQ+ Legislative Caucus and currently chairs the Asian American & Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus. Before that, he served as a councilmember and mayor in Campbell.

Low is jumping into a race where name recognition across San Mateo and Santa Clara counties will be important. He faces other well-known politicians, including state Sen. Josh Becker, Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian and former San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo.

Former Saratoga Mayor Rishi Kumar, climate investor Joby Bernstein, and former Menlo Park Mayor Peter Ohtaki and candidate Karl Ryan  the only Republicans in the race  are also running for the seat.

Im excited that our district has an embarrassment of riches, Low said. He added that hes received incredible outreach from residents who wanted him to run for the seat.

Larry Gerston, a political observer and San Jose State political science professor emeritus, said the Democrats have a treasure chest of good candidates, and Low fits right in.

Hes well known, hes a person who has made himself a force in the assembly, particularly for the LGBTQ and the AAPI communities, Gerston told San Jose Spotlight. Hes been a person who has been out there first and foremost to set the tone for legislation and attention to their issues.

Gerston added that with such a tough lineup of candidates, voters might have a hard time making a choice.

Each of these (candidates) are going to have to run through their own peelings to point out those elements that distinguish themselves from the others, Gerston said. For Low, one distinction might be his relationship with the tech community, as he founded the bipartisan Technology and Innovation Caucus in the assembly, Gerston said.

Low said hes motivated to pursue higher office to keep alive a legacy of service in his family, with his dad serving as a Campbell Chamber of Commerce leader and his brother a current SJPD officer.

Low said he wants to bring to Washington, D.C. a greater understanding and awareness of how technology companies and the internet affect society, something he said is lacking in the U.S. Capitol.

This district is the global hub of innovation and this community specifically expects exceptionalism, and Im excited to be able to deliver results on day one, Low said. To make sure that we support the innovation economy while also focusing on consumer protection and privacy as well.

He also said he will prioritize funding for local law enforcement agencies, and plans to continue a track record of combating hate  as anti-Asian attacks and antisemitism are on the rise and hundreds of pieces of anti-LGTBQ legislation have been introduced around the country.

We have the most homophobic Speaker of the House in generations, and Im not going to back down from that, Low said. And the best way to counter the most homophobic speaker in Congress is to send more openly LGBTQ individuals to Washington D.C.

KRON ON is streaming live news now

When voters elected Low to the Campbell City Council in 2006, he became the first Asian American, openly gay councilmember in city history. District 16 has a large Asian American population, which could end up as an advantage for Low. Among other cities, the congressional district includes Campbell, Los Gatos and parts of San Jose in Santa Clara County, as well as Atherton, Menlo Park and Portola Valley in San Mateo County.

Eshoo has not yet endorsed a successor and demurred when asked who she might support during a recent interview on San Jose Spotlights podcast.

That recognition is something I take very seriously, but frankly to me, its more about the populations of our community, he said of the districts Asian American and Pacific Islander and LGBTQ residents. Its not about empty tokenism, its about the lived experiences that matter.

Copyright  2023 Bay City News, Inc.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
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 Support reporter John Lynchs coverage of housing and homelessness in SLO County by donating to The Tribunes Local Impact Journalism Fund. Go to sanluisobispo.com/donate.

Kris Kaehler was supposed to be in San Luis Obispo for five days.

Instead, hes been here nearly five months.

I have a Gilligans Island story, Kaehler joked.

Kaehler, a contract electrician, was only supposed to be in San Luis Obispo for less than a week, working on the remodel of the Vons grocery store on Broad Street.

He lives in Big Bear, around five hours from San Luis Obispo, and is no stranger to being on the road for extended periods of time from his background as a petition gatherer.

However, he had never gone homeless in all his years of traveling for work, he said.

That all changed when Kaehler was involved in a car accident in San Luis Obispo, which damaged his car so badly that it was not road safe, he said.

Now, each night around 7, Kaehler and his service dog, Chewbacca, can often be found at the 40 Prado Homeless Services Center, finishing up their chores and getting ready to take their spot in the shelters warming center program.

However, while Kaehler has been able to keep a roof over his and Chewbaccas heads during some of the colder nights of the winter season, not all homeless residents in San Luis Obispo County have been as lucky.

As the falling temperatures chill even the sunniest corners of San Luis Obispo County, homeless residents few shelter options are under more demand than usual, local service providers said.

Patrick Smith is reflected in the front door having a smoke before going into the 40 Prado Homeless Services Center in San Luis Obispo on Nov. 29, 2023. The CAPSLO facility opens a warming shelter when temperatures fall or rain is in the forecast.

What is staying at a warming center like?

In Big Bear, Kaehler said he had been living in room in a hotel owned by a friend between his construction jobs in exchange for free handyman work around the property, but in the five months hes spent in San Luis Obispo, hes lost that room, leaving him homeless.

Before he was placed in 40 Prados Warming Center in late November by an outreach worker with Good Samaritan Shelter, Kaehler said he had spent around five nights sleeping in his car around San Luis Obispo, enduring the elements and dodging police officers.

Normally in this situation, he would have been able to stay with his girlfriend, who lives in affordable housing in Santa Maria and is pregnant with Kaehlers child, he said.

However, he said hes not allowed to stay with her because he was asked to leave by a case manager who overheard an argument between Kaehler and his girlfriend.

Without many alternatives, hes started staying at 40 Prado during the day and night, looking for jobs and planning his next moves.

Kaehler said hes been permitted to stay at the facility during the day and the warming center at night until he can get a spot in 40 Prados transitional housing program or finds a housing solution for himself.

Since starting his time at 40 Prado, its become the norm for Kaehler and Chewbacca to help set up some of the warming centers cots, then greet the other clients as they arrive, he said.

He said hes grateful that 40 Prado allows pets at its warming center, a feature most types of shelter doesnt offer.

(Chewbaccas) getting more and more accustomed to the way things are around here, Kaehler said. Everybody says hes the best-behaved dog here by far.

Kaehler said hell be in San Luis Obispo for the foreseeable future while he waits to resolve a driving-under-the-influence charge and puts down roots in the area before the birth of his child next summer.

Until then, with work drying up around the holidays, he said hell likely have to rely on the warming center and other services at 40 Prado to keep himself housed.

With no income coming in, (getting a hotel) is unsustainable, Kaehler said. Whats an average night in a hotel nowadays? $80 a night? Back in the late 90s, when I first moved out to California, you could get a week in a hotel for that, but not anymore.

Patrick Smith gets a light for his cigarette before going into the 40 Prado Homeless Services Center in San Luis Obispo on Nov. 29, 2023. The CAPSLO facility opens a warming shelter when temperatures fall or rain is in the forecast.

Capacity stressed at 40 Prado during winter season

Jack Lahey, director of homeless services at 40 Prado, said that while the facility is almost always filled to capacity regardless of season, the winter season has led to increased demand for shelter.

We turned away 26 people last night, Lahey said Nov. 27. Weve been operating over our capacity pretty consistently since last September.

Earlier this year, 40 Prado changed its stay policies from a lottery to a system that guarantees a bed for clients for 90 days, during which clients work with case managers toward a permanent housing solution.

The 90-day model has a capacity of 87 beds for individuals and another 28 for families, with 16 emergency beds on hand to shelter higher-risk clients.

The facilitys warming center  the only program of its kind currently open to clients in San Luis Obispo County  only opens on nights with temperatures below 38 degrees or a chance of rain higher than 50%, Lahey said.

In addition to the 115 90-day beds, 16 emergency beds and 40 warming center cots, 40 Prado has also started taking on clients in overflow space, a policy Lahey said started when the Bob Jones Trail was closed during this years winter storms.

Lahey said 40 Prado receives around $20,000 a year from San Luis Obispo Countys general fund to cover the cost of running the warming center, but its not enough to run the center for more than a handful of nights.

Since Nov. 1, the warming center and overflow space has sheltered 100 individuals on 19 nights, Lahey said, overextending the facilitys capabilities.

Even setting aside this years winter storms and flooding, which saw those numbers spike to 403 individuals sheltered on 121 nights between Nov. 1, 2022, and Oct. 31, 2023, demand for warming shelter and overflow beds at 40 Prado is already higher than normal, according to data provided by the Community Action partnership of San Luis Obispo.

The 100 individuals who have used warming center and overflow beds in the past month are more than in all of the 2020 and 2021 warming center seasons, and the 19 nights of operation have already matched or nearly surpassed the totals from 2020 and 2021.

Thats led Lahey and his staff to be conservative with the number of nights the additional shelter can be open, he said.

What our plan is now is were only doing overflow on non-warming center nights for individuals who are over 65 or medically fragile, and we cap that around eight (beds), Lahey said. Were gonna work on getting those folks into our dorm beds, and then at least temporarily halt the overflow program, because we just dont have sustainability putting out 20 beds every night on top of what were already doing.

Jack Lahey, seen here Nov. 29, 2023, is director of homeless services at CAPSLO, working at the 40 Prado Homeless Services Center in San Luis Obispo. The CAPSLO facility opens a warming center with extra beds when temperatures fall or rain is in the forecast.

Shelter facilities struggle to keep up with demand

Since spring 2023, the shelter has also been forced to contend with extremely limited shower and restroom capacity as many of the appliances 40 Prado opened with were not built for long-term, industrial use, Lahey said.

In recent months, only half of tje shelters 10 main showers have been functional at a time, with staff at 40 Prado resorting to scheduling 15-minute showers in the functioning womens bathroom, Lahey said.

Repairs to the restrooms only got underway in recent weeks, Lahey said, which involved re-tiling the showers and completely gutting and replacing the mens showers at a cost of around $100,000 in total.

Delays in permitting and an initial lack of money pushed the repairs down the road longer than needed, Lahey said.

We were initially delayed because we didnt have the money to do it, Lahey said. When we got about 50% of the money, we said, Screw it, were gonna do it and try to fundraise for the rest.

Though 40 Prados laundry machines are currently working, they are prone to breakdowns, forcing CAPSLO to raise funds to make long-term improvements to the laundry facilities, Lahey said.

Few warming center options available outside of SLO

Elsewhere in San Luis Obispo County, homeless residents have fewer overnight shelter options to choose from.

In the South County, 5Cities Homeless Coalition executive director Janna Nichols said her organization has the plans and funding to establish a warming center but are waiting on a location.

The nonprofit has operated warming centers for South County residents since 2015 at a series of different locations, but had not found a permanent location for the program until recently, Nichols said.

This year, 5CHC is looking to open a permanent location for its warming center in Arroyo Grande after the Arroyo Grande City Council voted unanimously at its Sept. 26 meeting to allocate $100,000 of American Rescue Plan Act funds to 5CHC, Nichols said.

The permanent location in Arroyo Grande has been identified and is currently undergoing renovations, but wont be ready to shelter clients until January, she said.

We thought we had an alternative temporary site, and then we had problems with it, Nichols said. Now, we have approached a second church, they have said yes, and we are just going through the final negotiations now and hope to have it up and running (in Arroyo Grande) shortly.

Nichols said while warming centers are a needed resource for unsheltered people during cold conditions, demand in South County isnt as high as in San Luis Obispo or North County.

Last year was the exception, she said, as the winter storms and flooding kept 5CHCs warming center open 58 nights, serving 117 unique visitors.

While the permanent location 5CHC is currently working to secure can host as many as 34 people and the temporary location can hold around 20, Nichols said its rare to see more than 10 to 15 people using the warming center each night, and 5CHC has never needed to turn away a client.

People are not quick to give up their real estate and move their stuff, Nichols said. Its when we have heavy storms and its incessant that we have more and more folks come in, and obviously if we reach that point, well be dealing with trying to find secondary sites.

In the North County, El Camino Homeless Organization director of operations and management Austin Solheim said his organizations Atascadero and Paso Robles shelters dont necessarily see a spike in the number of people seeking services but are far more likely to see more daily visits from clients seeking shelter, food and clothing.

ECHO opens its conference rooms and shared spaces and provides hot beverages on cold days, Solheim said, but it doesnt operate a dedicated overnight warming center, Solheim said.

In the winter, ECHO also distributes winter packages to homeless residents through its outreach case management, including water, snacks and winter clothing, Solheim said, in addition to its meal service each night at both shelters.

Extreme weather can always cause someone that is in a situation of homelessness to be in danger, Solheim said. During the cold specifically, the biggest one that always comes up is hypothermia. Its also important to make sure that individual has enough food as well  you burn more calories in the cold (because) your bodys working harder to stay warm.

Debbie Marino, a homeless resident of San Luis Obispo, said her possessions have been confiscated in city encampment cleanups four times in the past year. Marino and other homeless residents said the citys cleanups  which are intended to keep public spaces clean and safe  set them back whenever their possessions are taken by the city and its contractors.

Unsheltered resident: Encampments should be left alone in winter

The danger posed by cold temperatures is evident in San Luis Obispo Countys homeless encampments.

Debbie Marino, a homeless resident of San Luis Obispo County, said in past years, shes stayed outside in temperatures around 20 degrees at their coldest, and has seen friends suffer from hypothermia and other illnesses as a result of the weather.

Marino said she doesnt have consistent shelter other than the occasional stay at 40 Prados warming center, and is living with a terminal cancer diagnosis that causes a high level of physical stress.

Shes lived all over San Luis Obispo County and has found shelter alone and in larger encampments, she said.

Though living in encampments carries its own unique problems, such as fear of property confiscation by law enforcement, fire risk and higher chance of catching illnesses, Marino said sometimes staying in an encampment can be the only way to stay warm and relatively safe in the winter.

Encampments have a tendency to move outside of town in the summer because it gets so hot and stuffy  everybody can spread out, and they dont have to worry about being in a safe enclosure, Marino said. In the wintertime, it becomes much more congested. You find one person whos found a spot and theyve been there for two days and they havent been bothered by the cops, before you know it, youve got 40 people on it.

Solhiem said this is a common practice among homeless populations, regardless of location.

Youll see a lot more people tend to group up during these winter months, just so that they can stay warm and stay connected and have someone looking out for them as well, Solheim said.

Marino said she and other homeless individuals can also face discrimination at potential sources of shelter such as motels.

On a cold night three weeks ago, she was denied a room at a motel because her mailing address was 40 Prado Road, even though she had the money to pay for a room, she said.

Marino said because San Luis Obispo doesnt have the shelter space for all unsheltered residents, it should allow encampments to exist through the winter, but with some oversight and collaboration between the encampment residents and city government.

As the weather gets colder, places to find shelter become scarce and resources are stretched thin, leading to more conflict between homeless residents, Marino said.

Right now, its very dangerous because everybodys just desperate, Marino said. Theres safety in numbers.
Several times a week these days, the woman who helped keep a roof over peoples heads during the pandemic gets a similar email from residents: Do you have any rental assistance money? I need help.

Julie Peters, now the chief communications officer at SHORE UP Inc. and formerly the program manager for the rental assistance program at the Salisbury-based organization, helped her agency, in a few years, administer more than $8 million to more than 1,200 renter households on Marylands Eastern Shore.

The money came from the federal government, which provided more than $46 billion nationally to support housing those in danger of eviction during a period when restaurants were closed, jobs were lost and the demands of life continued. And while the federal money has largely stopped flowing, those demands have not  and neither have the requests asking for help.

The Shore Up Inc. building on Snow Hill Road in Salisbury on October 16, 2023. The organization helped distribute millions of federal dollars of rental assistance during the past few years.

We have not had any funds for rental assistance since May or June, Peters said. We are still getting, if not every day, at least three or four times a week an email (asking for help).

Evictions, under 200 each year in Salisburys Wicomico County during 2020, 2021 and 2022, have returned above that mark as rental assistance funds have receded. The county registered 295 evictions from January through September 2023, still below the 408 evictions in 2019  the last year before the federal eviction moratorium began in 2020 and two rounds of assistance in 2021  but close to the pre-pandemic annual level.

Previously: Maryland's eviction numbers are falling with federal help, but relief's running out

The eviction filing rates in Maryland are very high

A similar occurrence with evictions is happening on the other side of the state, in Washington County, where CEO of the Washington County Community Action Council Tim Fisher calls the housing landscape a crisis.

In the first nine months of 2023, according to court data, there were 464 evictions in Washington County. The county had under 450 evictions each year during the period from 2020 to 2022. That 2023 figure, too, is below the 801 evictions in 2019. But with federal rental assistance funds gone, so too is a prediction for an immediate reduction from the total of the past couple years.

From my perspective, said Fisher, that trend will continue to rise.

The Washington County Community Action Council office on Summit Avenue in Hagerstown.

Statewide, there was a total of 23,567 evictions combined in 2020, 2021, and 2022  an average of about 8,000 per year. The last year before the moratorium, 2019, Maryland registered 21,676 evictions in just 12 months. This year, through nine months, there were 16,325 evictions in the state. And those figures represent a fraction of the hundreds of thousands of eviction filings that take place in the states district courts each year.

The eviction filing rates in Maryland are very high, said Jacob Haas, a senior research specialist at The Eviction Lab at Princeton University. More than 400,000 failure to pay rent cases were filed in Maryland in the states 2023 fiscal year. Haas, providing the figures for Virginia and Pennsylvania, indicated the annual filing totals for those two states combined are still less than in Maryland.

Related: With Salisbury's Jake Day confirmed for cabinet, whats next for housing statewide?

How much does it cost to file an eviction?

Maryland Legal Aid has 60 people handling that load of hundreds of thousands of cases, said Zafar Shah, the organizations assistant advocacy director for tenants right to counsel project. He indicated less than a third (fewer than 20 attorneys statewide) are full-time eviction counsel.

A 2021 state law provided tenants the right to counsel in eviction cases and required landlords to provide a 10-day notice before an eviction.

Eviction filing fees do play a very significant role in eviction filing rates, said Haas of The Eviction Lab. Nationwide, the median filing fee for an eviction case is about $100, he said, and in Maryland that fee can start as low as $15.

Shah said theres a very strong correlation between the right to counsel coupled with the strengthened notice provisions and the fewer filings, a number reduced by hundreds of thousands in a few years. In 2019, there were 674,575 filings. One reason for the high levels  the fee.

In this file photo circa 2023, Maryland Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day hears about operations at JRJ Manufacturing, a heating, ventilation and air conditioning manufacturer that relocated from Waynesboro, Pa., to the former Fort Ritchie post exchange last year. Behind him are, from left, Washington County Commissioner Randy Wagner, Washington County Director of Business and Economic Development Jonathan Horowitz, Richie Revival developer John Krumpotich and Hagerstown Mayor Tekesha Martinez.

Out in Hagerstown, Fisher, who came to the Community Action Council earlier this year, is looking to Annapolis and the General Assembly for middle ground on legislation for renters. The Maryland Legislature is scheduled to return for its 90-day session on Jan. 10. Fisher suggested a new bill of rights for those who rent, calling that an incredibly important first step.

Also a sociology professor at a local community college, he pointed to the response to the 2008 housing crisis and made a comparison to the housing market that many renters are facing today.

We dont have the same sense of something must be done, that we do for folks who rent in the same manner that we do for folks who purchase homes, he said.

Dwight A. Weingarten is an investigative reporter, covering the Maryland State House and state issues. He can be reached at dweingarten@gannett.com or on Twitter at @DwightWeingart2.

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Maryland's rising eviction rate renews call for tenants' rights
The murders of Delphi teens Abigail "Abby" Williams and Liberty "Libby" German shook the small Indiana town in 2017 and, as the killings went unsolved for five years, interest in the case spread around the world.

Images of the Monon High Bridge, the Carroll County landmark where the two girls were last seen alive on Feb. 13, 2017, became iconic reminders of an unforgettable and deeply disturbing crime as the community searched for answers to the questions: Who killed Abby and Libby? And why?

As the investigation lingered, the plight of the girls  and pain and suspicion eating at the close-knit community  resonated far beyond central Indiana. The international media picked up on the story, and the case became a popular topic for true crime podcasts, documentaries and social media speculation, with conspiracy theories and vitriolic hate overtaking sympathy and local concerns.

Delphi murders: Timeline of events in the case against Richard Allen

The attention surrounding the deaths was recently goosed by a bizarre series of events in the criminal case against Richard Allen, the unassuming local pharmacy employee arrested last year for the killings. The legal wrangling has spawned a circus-like atmosphere now threatening to overshadow the memories of the two slain teens and derail Allen's right to a fair trial.

These flowers were left at one entrance to the Monon High Bridge, a spot which Abigail Williams, 13, and Liberty German, 14, were known to have visited on Feb. 13, 2017, on the day they were killed.

The donnybrook erupted after Allen's court-appointed defense attorneys claimed in September that members of a pagan religion sacrificed the girls during a bloody ritual in the woods  and police failed to investigate the real killers.

Delphi suspect moved to southern Indiana prison for 'safekeeping'

Then, just months before the criminal cases was set to go to trial, a leak of graphic crime scene photos threatened to upend the already high-stakes case. The leak set off a new whirlwind of activity.

A man identified in court documents as being tied to the leak killed himself during the ensuing investigation. The presiding judge removed Allen's defense attorneys, capping off a chaotic October. Then another man was charged in November for his role in the leak.

Key dates in the case against Richard Allen in the killings of Libby German and Abby Williams.

Now, the case has devolved into a messy legal fight in the state's highest court over Allen's request to reinstate his attorneys  and calls to remove the judge from the case.

Delphi murder suspect Richard Allen: Indiana town wants answers about man who 'blended in'

Legal experts say these controversies, not to mention the toxic online chatter that continues to proliferate, could make it more difficult to find impartial jurors for a trial that has now been pushed back another year. They also have placed the states legal system in an unflattering national spotlight and could undermine the public's confidence in the criminal justice process.

"We must cultivate public faith in the integrity of the trial process and integrity of the actors. When defendants become celebrities, that does not happen," said Indiana University law professor Jody Madeira, whos been following the case and has studied other high-profile prosecutions, including that of Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh.

"Increased publicity exasperates the public. It lowers the public opinion of the defendant and the defense team. It focuses the media coverage on the defendant instead of the victim. And it tends to undermine the dignity of the proceedings."

Seemingly lost in the hubbub are the most fundamental questions: Will justice for the victims and their families ultimately be served? What about the rights of Allen, at this time a constitutionally innocent man who will have been behind bars for more than two years by the time he faces a jury?

"What the focus needs to be on ultimately are the victims and Richard Allen," said Alice LaCour, an attorney and co-host of The Prosecutors podcast, which has been following the case. "Those are the ... main people who we should be concerned about and who are forgotten throughout all of this."

Legal expert on Delphi case: 'It is an absolute mess'

Carroll County Prosecutor Nicholas McLeland sent an alarming email at around 4 a.m. on Oct. 12. He'd just gotten off the phone with an Indiana State Police officer. A man tied to the leak killed himself the night before, McLeland wrote in the email included in court filings. It was the latest "bizarre" twist in a case that has had its share of twists and turns.

"This is getting serious and way out of control," the prosecutor said in the email to Andrew Baldwin and Bradley Rozzi, Allen's court-appointed attorneys, and Special Judge Frances Gull.

The attorneys learned days earlier that a security breach at Baldwin's office led to the leaking of crime scene images. A friend and former employee, Mitch Westerman, would later be charged after admitting in an affidavit that he had surreptitiously taken pictures of the evidence he found on a conference room table. Westerman had forwarded the photos to the man who later killed himself after being questioned by police.

Carroll County Prosecutor Nick McLeland speaks during a 2022 press conference addressing updates regarding the investigation of the murders of Abby Williams and Libby German.

"This is beyond tragic  once again Im at a loss for words," Gull replied. "I'm deeply concerned that Mr. Allens defense is being compromised by all these recent events."

What followed was even more chaos that's changed the trajectory of the case.

"It is an absolute mess," said Madeira, the IU law professor. "This doesnt really have a precedent."

During an Oct. 19 meeting in her office, Gull made clear that her concerns dated back to almost a year earlier, after Allen was arrested. She enumerated to Baldwin and Rozzi examples of what she saw as problematic conduct that she planned to reveal in court, including: a press release the defense attorneys issued early in the case that included information Gull believe shouldn't have been revealed; an earlier leak after Baldwin accidentally emailed information to someone who's not part of the case; and "inaccuracies and falsehoods" in the attorneys' court filings about the conditions of Allen's incarceration at the Westville Correctional Facility, where he's being held pending trial.

'Like it happened yesterday': Family reflects on Delphi murders at four-year anniversary

"It pains me to say this, but the totality of these circumstances demonstrates gross negligence and incompetence on the part of the defense team," Gull said, according to a meeting transcript. "I am unsatisfied with your representation of Mr. Allen. I am gravely concerned about his rights to have competent, non-negligent representation."

The meeting ended with both attorneys withdrawing from the case. But Rozzi said the judge left them with an impossible choice  quit or be shamed in front of the public and the media  and without a chance to refute the allegations.

"You can understand how upset that would make any lawyer ... I don't think it's the right way to handle this from a due process standpoint," Rozzi told the judge.

Baldwin said he agreed, but didn't say much else.

"I'm stunned, I don't know what to say," Baldwin said. Earlier in the meeting, he said, "this is the worst, lowest point of my career right now."

The defense attorneys soon backtracked, and during a contentious hearing on Oct. 31, insisted on staying on at Allen's request  even as his newly appointed public defenders appeared on his behalf.

Delphi case chaos: Murder suspect's attorney says he will stay on the case; calls for judge to quit

"We didn't act grossly negligent," Rozzi told Gull, according to a transcript of the hearing. Earlier, he filed a motion to disqualify the judge, saying she'd falsely accused them of gross negligence while turning a blind eye on police and prosecutorial misconduct they've uncovered.

Gull asked McLeland to weigh in.

"Judge, I guess I'm at a loss at this point," the prosecutor said, adding later: "I think everything they've done, including the most recent leak, is just an effort by them to push this case out into the public and try this in the public eye and not in this court."

Later, Gull addressed the defendant.

"I cannot and will not allow these attorneys to represent you with the concerns that Ive had," she told Allen.

By early November, the debacle had spilled into the Indiana Supreme Court, where Allen is asking for his original defense team's reinstatement and Gull's removal. A new set of civil attorneys representing Allen in the high court argued Gull had circumvented proper removal proceedings based on her "subjective" findings of negligence and did so against Allen's wishes.

Baldwin, Rozzi and McLeland all declined to comment.

'Extrajudicial grandstanding' or 'zealous' representation?

Depending on whom you ask or which court document you read, Baldwin and Rozzi are either grandstanders who have inflamed and lied to attract media attention, or dedicated attorneys who have worked tirelessly to defend a client they believe is innocent.

A key part of that defense is an explosive, 136-page document that opened with this: "Members of a pagan Norse religion, called Odinism, hijacked by white nationalists, ritualistically sacrificed Abigail Williams and Liberty German."

The defense attorneys pointed to signs at the crime scene, including branches that were placed over the girls' bodies to form Odinist runes and horns, and a letter painted on a tree allegedly with Libbys blood. They argued investigators ignored these and other "overwhelming" pieces of evidence pointing to Odinists. They alleged that a parallel investigation by three officers led to other "obvious suspects." But those leading the investigation failed to follow these leads due to "incompetence or a concerted intentionality."

The attorneys also alleged that Allen was "being threatened, intimidated, and mentally abused" by Odinists working as guards at Westville. The facility's acting warden denied the allegations. Two correctional officers admitted in affidavits that they wore patches tied to pagan religion but claimed they don't practice Odinism.

Key dates in the case against Richard Allen in the killings of Libby German and Abby Williams.

McLeland described the Odinism allegations as "fanciful defense for social media to devour," according to court records. The prosecutor also accused Baldwin and Rozzi of "extrajudicial grandstanding" and using "inflammatory" and "supercilious" language  even outright lies  in many of their court filings to generate soundbites.

Odinism allegations: Ritual sacrifice raised in defense of Delphi, Indiana double-murder suspect

Other critics of the defense team, like The Prosecutors podcast hosts, said the attorneys have an uphill battle: Allen admitted being on the trail the same afternoon the girls disappeared. An unspent bullet found near the bodies was forensically tied to a gun Allen owned, according to investigators. And, Allen allegedly confessed to the killings during prison calls with his wife, according to court records.

LaCour said the defense team crafted an alternative narrative for everyone to talk about.

"People are willing to put aside rationality to believe a fantastic story," said Brett Talley, co-host of the podcast. "They need people to set aside rationality and lose themselves in the conspiracy."

Madeira, the IU law professor, said the conduct Gull described during the Oct. 19 meeting "would fall in line" with what's been considered gross negligence in other cases.

Delphi case: Richard Allen's attorneys allege more inconsistencies from investigators

"Attorneys in the past decades have been deemed grossly negligent for failing to meet deadlines of the trial court, denying knowledge of evidence, only producing documents and other evidence after discovery has closed, not giving evidence when they promised they will, failing to attend meetings, misrepresenting the law," Madeira said, citing examples nationwide.

Addressing the leak of crime scene photos, Madeira said there are procedures for handling confidential documents and when they can be revealed to third parties. "You don't leave confidential information unlocked in a conference room," she said.

The attorneys defenders argue their actions, including those the judge found to be grossly negligent, all amount to "zealous" advocacy of Allen. And the Odinism allegations are not a false narrative the attorneys made out of thin air, but a theory of the case backed by thousands of pages of documents they received from the prosecution.

Delphi case chaos: Accused Delphi killer's attorneys fight removal from the case

Bob Hammerle, an Indianapolis defense attorney whos been following the case, said the attorneys were simply doing their job, and they should be allowed to keep doing so.

"To force them to withdraw is the second tragedy in this case," Hammerle said. "The first one being the death of those girls."

Bob Motta, a Chicago defense attorney who also has been following the case and hosts a podcast called Defense Diaries, said none of the conduct Gull enumerated is "even remotely close" to negligence or incompetence.

"This is what it looks like when you have two attorneys that 100% believe with all their hearts that their client is innocent," Motta said. "That is what it looks like. This is how you fight."

Motta also said the attorneys, specifically Baldwin, shouldn't be blamed for the leak.

Grainy cell phone video footage and a sketch of a prime suspect in the murder of local Delphi girls Abigail Williams and Liberty German, on the office wall of Tobe Leazenby, Sheriff of Carroll County.

"It's the equivalent of somebody I invited into my house and they snuck up in my bedroom and went into my wife's jewelry box and stole a diamond earring," he said. "And the police blamed me for not having enough security in my house."

Bernice Corley, executive director of the Indiana Public Defender Council, which filed a brief supporting the attorneys' reinstatement, said the situation places the new defense team at a great disadvantage because they have to gain the trust of a defendant who, based on court records, has made it clear which attorneys he prefers.

"When someone is represented by a public defender, it takes time to build trust in that person. Their point of view is, 'You're paid by the government. You don't care what happens to me. You're just here to run me through the plea mill,'" Corley said. "Building trust is the first hurdle, and you cannot represent a person if they don't trust you, if they don't believe you care about their case and you're going to fight for them."

Judge's actions also under scrutiny

This screen shot from video shows Special Judge Frances Gull at an Oct. 19, 2023, court hearing in Fort Wayne. During the hearing, she said the trial for Richard Allen was expected to be delayed after his defense attorneys announced their intention to withdraw their representation.

When it comes to Judge Gull, legal experts and others who've been following the case seem just as divided.

Hammerle, the Indianapolis defense attorney, said there's no legal basis to force out Baldwin and Rozzi. And doing so privately, outside the courtroom without the defendant present, "brings a black mark to our judicial process."

"The actions of the trial judge are legally inexcusable," he said. "She is the one that should be removed from this case for her conduct."

Corley also said she's concerned the conversation leading up to the attorneys' withdrawal happened in the judge's chambers and not in open court. In a brief filed by the Indiana Public Defender Council, Corley wrote that Allen and the taxpayers funding his defense deserve "more than vague and broad concerns about 'gross negligence.'"

Dispute in the Indiana Supreme Court: Briefs filed defending judge's decisions in Delphi murder case

Gull, through attorneys representing her in the state Supreme Court, argued she was within her authority to disqualify Baldwin and Rozzi. Their actions compromised Allen's defense and fell short of professional norms, she argued. Gull also denied being biased against the defense, saying a judge's adverse rulings are not enough to show personal prejudice.

"The law is very clear," said LaCour, The Prosecutors podcast co-host. "The judge has the discretion to run her court especially when there's been such a breach of the protective order."

Madeira, the IU law professor, said Gull "tried to police things as best as possible" and realized that Baldwin and Rozzi either had to withdraw or stay on the case. The latter, Madeira said, could risk further leaks.

"I think Judge Gull was weighing and balancing two matters. First is how the evidence got leaked and making sure it doesn't happen again, and making sure you're isolating the source of that leak," Madeira said. "I think she's interested in expediency, and I think she's interested in keeping everything on the down-low as much as possible."

But did her methods backfire?

"Oh, absolutely," Madeira said. "But I don't think it was foreseeable at that time."

Dispute in the Indiana Supreme Court: Judge argues Delphi suspected killer's motion should be denied

In a separate case before the state Supreme Court, Allen's civil attorneys accused Gull of violating rules by improperly excluding documents from public access. Attorneys for several media outlets, including IndyStar, have filed appearances in the case after court documents, including the probable cause affidavit, were under seal for months after Allen was charged.

Gull's attorney, who declined to comment, argued in court records that the issue is moot because dozens of documents have since been made available. An attorney who represents Allen in the civil cases didn't respond to requests for comment.

But critics say the lack of transparency created a vacuum that allowed misinformation to fester.

"When everything has been held under lock and key and been hidden away from the public, it's created this atmosphere where everybody is just left to speculate, and it's dangerous," Motta, the Chicago defense attorney, said.

"This is a perfect example of why cases should not be tried in the shadows."

Delphi case has created a 'bizarre online community'

Aine Cane and Kevin Greenlee, who produce The Murder Sheet podcast, talk about covering the 2017 murders of Delphi eighth-graders Abby Williams and Libby German.

Outside the courtroom, online conversations on countless spaces such as Reddit, Discord, 4chan and various Facebook groups have ranged from thoughtful discussions of the case to unhinged rants and vitriolic speech. Hateful posts on social media have targeted those involved, including Gull and McLeland. Some have disparaged Libbys family members.

The case has also spawned a cottage industry of content creators and true crime podcasters. Some of them, including podcasters and husband-and-wife team Aine Cain and Kevin Greenlee, received the leaked crime scene photos and have themselves become targets of personal attacks and harassment for their coverage of the case.

The house where Greenlee and Cain live was posted on Discord. A fake account on X, formerly Twitter, also was created to mock and disparage the couple and their popular podcast.

Aine Cane and Kevin Greenlee, who produce The Murder Sheet podcast, have become targets of personal attacks and harassment for their coverage of the Delphi murders case.

"I don't think people who haven't reported on this case understand how bizarre it is," said Greenlee, an attorney who co-hosts the Murder Sheet podcast with Cain. "It's a bizarre online community."

Cain, a journalist who worked for Business Insider, said the amount of attention the Delphi murders have attracted shows that people want justice for the victims.

"I think there is a very dark side to all of this, though," she said. "You have people who dont necessarily have a great sense of boundaries or their own failings or biases or lack of experience who essentially attempt to control the case, control the narrative by spreading conspiracy theories, by spreading rumors, by spreading what I would characterize as very irresponsible conjecture."

Aine Cain, who produces The Murder Sheet podcast with her husband Kevin Greenlee, said "there is a very dark side" to all the speculation, conspiracy theories and rumors swirling around the Delphi murders case.

In the meantime, the two civil cases filed in the state Supreme Court are pending. Allen's criminal trial is scheduled to start in October 2024, almost exactly two years after he was arrested.

This delay furthers the victims' agony, Cain said, and lengthens an already painful process.

"Essentially the case entering a judicial phase should've been a moment where they can watch the system work, engender transparency and progress in the case," Cain said. "Unfortunately, that has not happened."

Ron Wilkins of the Lafayette Journal & Courier contributed to this story. Contact IndyStar reporter Kristine Phillips at (317) 444-3026 or at kphillips@indystar.com.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Delphi murders: Richard Allen case sets spotlight on Indiana system
Prosecutors in the Georgia election subversion case against former President Donald Trump have officially listed former Vice President Mike Pence as one of the witnesses who could be called to testify at trial, according to multiple sources familiar with court documents that remain under seal.

Pence, who has appeared before a federal grand jury as part of special counsel Jack Smiths probe into Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 election, has not been considered a major part of criminal proceedings in Georgia.

Witness lists submitted by Fulton County prosecutors have not been made public and remain tightly held. Sources told CNN that the most recent version of the witness list, which was produced by prosecutors just days ago, included upward of 150 names. Among them is Pence.

Pence could become a key witness as one of the few one-time Republican allies of the former president to strongly rebuke Trumps claims of widespread voter fraud in the Peach State.

Despite what the former president and his allies have said for now more than two and a half years and continue to insist  the Georgia election was not stolen, and I had no right to overturn the election on January 6, Pence said at the National Conference of State Legislatures after Trump was indicted in August.

Unlike in the federal probe, Pence has not testified under oath as part of the Georgia case  including before the special purpose grand jury that interviewed 75 witnesses in its investigation.

A spokesperson for Pence declined to comment on the Georgia case.

Pences name appearing on the witness list in Georgia, which has not been previously reported, is the first concrete sign that the Fulton County district attorneys office is preparing to put him on the stand. Pence has already signaled a willingness to testify as a witness in any federal trial.

In an interview with CNN this summer, Pence said he would comply with the law if he were compelled to testify in the federal case. I have no plans to testify, but, look, well always comply with the law, he said, noting there are profound First Amendment issues that will be litigated in that case.

Fifteen defendants remain in the sprawling racketeering case. So far, four of Trumps co-defendants  including three of his former attorneys  have already cut deals with prosecutors to plead guilty and testify in the case.

A spokesperson with the Fulton County district attorneys office told CNN they cannot comment on potential witnesses at this phase of the case.

The former vice president was publicly pressured by then-President Trump to overturn the 2020 presidential election results during the federal certification of votes on January 6, 2021.

On Friday, Trumps lead counsel in the Georgia case, Steve Sadow, indicated he believes the DAs office may attempt to call Pence as a witness. He made the revelation as he pushed for access to documents and materials in the hands of special counsel Jack Smith, which may be relevant to the separate state case in Georgia.

Sadow argued that Trumps federal case in Washington, DC, is largely a mirror image to his case in Fulton County and therefore he needs a list of evidence from that case.

This is a problem, Sadow argued.

There is no doubt that the special counsels office  has relevant and material information that deals with the allegations in this case, Sadow said in court.

Specifically, Sadow referenced contemporaneous notes that were taken by Pence after the 2020 election and obtained by Smiths team from the National Archives. However, those notes are not in the possession of Trumps Georgia team or the district attorneys office despite potentially being material to their case  particularly if Pence is called to testify.

Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee agreed there was a great deal of overlap in the two cases and said Georgia prosecutors should consider reaching out to special counsel Smith to coordinate on discovery issues.

Sadow wrote in a previous court filing that he reached out to Trumps lawyers in the federal case, but they told him that theres a court order prohibiting them from sharing materials with people who arent directly involved in that case. So, Sadow proposed that Fulton County prosecutors reach out to Smiths team and the federal judge in DC to determine if suitable arrangements can be made to hand over the materials.

Fulton County prosecutor Nathan Wade suggested at Fridays hearing that Sadow subpoena the Justice Department for the federal discovery, and Sadow said he would prepare a subpoena that hell send to Smiths team.

These questions about overlapping discovery speak to the challenging dynamic of Trump facing criminal charges in both state and federal court for many of the same actions he took to overturn his 2020 defeat.

CNNs Evan Perez contributed to this report.

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Israeli teen held hostage in the Gaza Strip with her dog speaks to Reuters after being released

Israeli teen held hostage in the Gaza Strip with her dog speaks to Reuters after being released

By Eli Berlzon

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Mia Leimberg emerged from nearly two months' captivity in Gaza with Bella, her Shih Tzu, in her arms, one of the most astonishing moments of a week-long ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that ended last Friday.

"When we were there we had to feed her our leftovers - yeah I'm talking about you Bella," said Mia, 17, looking down at the small white dog in her arms. "And we had to make sure that she doesn't run wild where we were. We had to keep her so that she doesn't go exploring and annoy anybody there."

Mia and her mother Gabriela were visiting family in Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak when they were taken hostage by Hamas during its Oct. 7 killing spree through southern Israel, sparking the war with the Palestinian Islamist group in Gaza.

The mother, daughter, aunt and dog were set free as part of a swap for Palestinian prisoners, but her uncle and her aunt's partner remain in captivity.

"It was difficult. I held her (Bella) all the way there. It was an extra four kilos. And I'm just lucky enough that I managed to keep her through that whole situation and bring her back," Mia said from her home in Jerusalem in her first media interview.

Descriptions of Hamas captivity have started to emerge with the return home of some of the Israeli hostages. Some have described 'suffocating' quarters, with no access to medication and dwindling food. Children have recounted being ordered always to keep quiet.

"Luckily for me Bella is unlike all the other small dogs that I personally know, she is rather quiet, unless when she is playing or mad," she said. "If they would have seen her as a bother I think they would not have let me keep her, in all honesty."

'SHE WAS A HUGE HELP TO ME'

Many pets were killed or went missing during Hamas' rampage.

Mia's father Moshe said they searched for Bella during the weeks of his family's captivity. The day of their release, he was surprised to hear she came out holding the dog.

He described in more detail what his daughter went through to keep Bella. "She was worried that something would happen to the dog if she left her behind," he said.

Mia hid the dog under her pyjamas as they were loaded into a vehicle that drove out of the kibbutz.

"Then they took them to tunnels ... she had the dog with her the whole time," he said. "When they came out of the tunnel they had to climb up a ladder, that's when the Hamas people noticed that this was not a doll, it was a living, breathing dog."

"A bit of an argument ensued, and it was decided to let her keep the dog instead of leave it behind."

The captives cleaned up after the dog to prevent bad smells.

"She was very determined to bring the dog back, and one of the expressions that she has now, about the dog, is 'I love you to Gaza and back'."

More than 100 hostages were freed in the truce that ended on Friday. Since then fighting has resumed with Israel pursuing its military offensive against Hamas in Gaza.

Mia described how captivity was a tough experience that "will take quite the while to, like, sink in." But having Bella helped. "She was a huge help to me. She kept me busy. She was moral support."

She said they will fight for the freedom of the other hostages, including her uncle and aunt's partner.

"We miss them every day and it feels wrong being here without them," she said. "As much as I am happy to be back, we're still not done."

(Reporting by Eli Berlzon; Writing by Ari Rabinovitch; Editing by Howard Goller and Janet Lawrence)
FILE PHOTO: Trucks stuck in queue border at crossing with Ukraine, as Polish truckers protest

FILE PHOTO: Trucks stuck in queue border at crossing with Ukraine, as Polish truckers protest

By Max Hunder

KYIV (Reuters) - Charities and NGOs supplying military aid to Ukraine's armed forces are facing delays of several weeks to critical supplies of drones, electronics and pickup trucks due to border protests by Polish truckers, three industry sources told Reuters.

Thousands of trucks carrying commercial goods have been backed up for weeks at Poland's border crossings with Ukraine because of the protests, which began on Nov. 6. Hauliers in Slovakia began a similar blockade on Dec. 1.

The protesters want to end Ukrainian truckers' permit-free access to the EU, saying Ukrainian drivers are undercutting their prices. Kyiv says the volume of wartime traffic makes a truck permit system impracticable.

While the protesters say they allow humanitarian and military aid through, many resources required by Ukraine's armed forces are bought by civilian organisations and transported on commercial trucks, which are not allowed to pass the blockade.

Ukraine's government has much smaller financial resources to fund its military than Russia, which launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.

As a result, the armed forces have relied heavily on hundreds of millions of dollars of auxiliary supplies of items like drones, vehicles and body armour from Ukrainian charities throughout the war.

Taras Chmut, head of Come Back Alive, Ukraine's largest military aid charity, said dozens of night-vision systems and pickup trucks as well as hundreds of drones procured by his group had been stuck at the border for several weeks.

"This is not good, because they are tied to projects, timings and deadlines ... Things are getting through, but it is slower than it was before," he told Reuters.

He said Come Back Alive was trying to work out a deal with Polish authorities to allow unimpeded passage of their aid, as Kyiv had no choice but to import many crucial items from abroad.

"Pickup trucks all come from abroad, night vision kits all come from abroad ... FPV drones generally come from abroad, and this (protest) slows down our work."

The extent of the military's reliance on supplies from volunteers and charities is subject to wartime secrecy, but soldiers in previous conversations with Reuters have said donations make up a significant part of specific types of equipment.

The problems at the border come amid mounting uncertainty over the future of much larger U.S. and European Union aid packages that are being debated in Washington and Brussels and which Kyiv needs.

'A BIG PROBLEM'

The border protests are affecting manufacturers of military equipment, said Viktor Dolhopiatov, who runs Engineering Corps, a non-profit enterprise making various types of equipment used by the Ukrainian armed forces.

"If the blockade continues this could become, and already is becoming, a big problem," Dolhopiatov said.

Poland has been the most significant route for Ukrainian imports since Russia blockaded Ukraine's Black Sea ports at the war's start.

He told Reuters the border blockade had delayed supplies of parts for machines in his factory, as well as components for power supply units used in drone engines and radio stations.

"I am convinced that a large quantity of the parts going to private sector enterprises which work on defence projects are unfortunately currently standing at the border," he said.

Part of the problem, Dolhopiatov said, was that the cheapest way to ship their goods from Poland is to transport them with other cargoes in large lorries, which increases the likelihood of them being held up for a long time.

The truckers, who let through military cargoes, often don't do so with dual-use goods to bolster the war effort, he said.

"They go in the main queue."

A potential way to circumvent the blockade is to ship cargoes in regular cars rather than lorries, but this is much more expensive.

Anatoliy Akulov, who runs the Ukraine in Armor charity fund, which ships both military and humanitarian aid, said haulage costs from Poland to Ukraine, normally $1,700-2,300 per container, spiked to around $5,000 in November.

Akulov said shipments of drone parts and humanitarian cargoes had been delayed. A shipment of fishing nets intended for use as anti-drone nets was now stuck for the third week.

"In order to bring in used fishing nets to protect our soldiers from Russian drones, I would need at least $10,000."

(Reporting by Max Hunder; editing by Tom Balmforth, Mike Collett-White and Jon Boyle)
Sen. Rand Paul (RKy.) is trying to stop legislation that requires automakers to continue putting dashboard A.M. radio in cars. His new amendment to the A.M. radio bill would also eliminate electric vehicle subsidies.

Earlier this year, Sen. Ed Markey (DMass.) introduced the AM For Every Vehicle Act, with the explicit goal of ensuring "that this resilient and popular communication tool does not become a relic of the past." A skeptic might respond that if A.M. radio is both resilient and popular, car manufacturers would continue to provide itbut eight of the 20 major automobile companies have ceased offering the service, according to Markey's own press release. The market currently provides some cars that have A.M. radio and others that do not; yet a bipartisan group of lawmakers, including Sen. Ted Cruz (RTexas) believe that the federal government must mandate it.

Enter Paul. On Tuesday, the senator introduced an amendment that would obviate the AM For Every Vehicle Act while also eliminating the electric vehicle tax credit.

"Mandating that all cars have AM radio is antithetical to any notion of limited government," said Paul on the floor of the U.S. Senate.

Supporters of the AM For Every Vehicle Act contend that the service is necessary for public safety in that it communicates information about driving conditions and extreme weather. Of course, there are many, many other ways for drivers to get that information, including from any passenger's cellphone. There's nothing stopping automobile manufacturers from equipping cars with A.M. radio, but federal legislators who support the bill are effectively saying that they know better.

Cruz sparred with Paul over his amendment, asserting that the AM for Every Vehicle Act was really about protecting free speech. Paul disagreed strenuously.

"The debate over free speech, as listed in the First Amendment, is that government shall pass no law," said Paul. "It has nothing to do with forcing your manufacturer to have AM radio. This legislation attempts to insert Congress's judgment into a question best decided by American consumers."

Watch Paul's full remarks here.

The post Exclusive: Rand Paul Wants To Kill Electric Car Subsidies and Mandatory A.M. Radio appeared first on Reason.com.
Semafor Signals

NEWS

Journalists who are forced to work in exile after fleeing repressive regimes are still not safe from their governments efforts to silence them, a new report by Freedom House found.

Governments from 26 countries including China, Iran, Belarus and Saudi Arabia, committed more than 112 acts of transnational repression against journalists from 2014 to 2023, the DC-based nonprofit said in the report.

Authoritarian governments have intimidated journalists abroad with tactics including physical attacks, unlawful detentions, online harassment, threats against family members  exacerbating their precarious physical and economic conditions.

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

Even when journalists escape to democratic countries, their safety is not guaranteed. The 2021 stabbing of an outspoken Azerbaijani blogger living in France was allegedly ordered by the Azerbaijani government and resulted in high-level talks between the two countries. After being severely wounded in the attack, Mahammad Mirzali continued to face an onslaught of online threats that forced him to close his blog. Going after exiled journalists who tell the truth about autocracies is the latest chapter in the growing authoritarian playbook, said Freedom House president Michael Abramowitz.

Relentless online abuse often leads journalists to self-censor or limit their public appearances. Iranian reporters based in Europe and North America have faced death and rape threats for working with foreign media and have been subject to doxing. In China, which is responsible for more than a quarter of the cases of transnational repression, female reporters have had their personal information posted to escort sites. With journalists often powerless to identify anonymous online perpetrators, Freedom House has called on tech companies to provide special protections for those who are vulnerable  but this is not possible without the help of host governments.

Even democratic governments often fail to support journalists publicly, Jessica White, one of the reports authors, told Semafor. Governments hosting exiled journalists should be transparent about the threats that such journalists are facing  a first step in ensuring autocracies are held accountable, White said. The Freedom House analyst also called out the U.S. for the lack of meaningful accountability over the Saudi-sanctioned assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a long-term resident of the U.S. The Biden administrations Khashoggi Ban imposes visa restrictions against people who threaten or harm journalists on behalf of a foreign government, but rights activists have been outraged at Washingtons refusal to penalize Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, as the U.S. has continued to do business with Riyadh.
Semafor Signals

NEWS

EU delegates will meet with Chinese leaders in Beijing on Thursday, marking the first in-person summit between the two global superpowers since 2019.

Chinas foreign ministry said the two sides will discuss critical economic issues, emphasizing that Beijings and Brussels common interests far outweigh our differences.

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

Chinas relationship with Russia will be a central focus for the EU delegates. The South China Morning Post reported that EU leaders will personally ask Chinese leader Xi Jinping to control 13 Chinese entities accused of circumventing sanctions on Moscow, and that the EU is prepared to include Chinese firms in future sanctions if Xi does not act. Analysts are unclear about who will prevail during the negotiations. China-watcher Sari Arho Havren noted that Beijing is well aware of faltering Western aid capacity and will to support Ukraine, which doesnt give Brussels the upperhand. But trade policy adviser Nicolas Kohler-Suzuki argued that the EU still has substantial economic leverage over China.

Chinese media is emphasizing the need for Europe to redefine China as a partner instead of a rival. Writing for Shenzhen Media Group, Sun Yat-Sen University geopolitics professor Sun Xingjie compared current tensions with Europe to those felt during the Cold War, warning that global stability is at risk if Beijing and Brussels draw lines based on ideology and values. But Europe and China can circumvent this fallout by focusing on mutually beneficial industries, particularly in the electric-vehicle industry, Sun argued. Europe can benefit from trading its abundance of minerals needed for the production of EVs with China, which in turn could help the two countries reach their goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. No country can create world-leading technologies and industries in isolation, Sun wrote.





EU leaders cannot ignore Chinas military provocations against Taiwan, wrote former NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen in the Financial Times. It would be a mistake for EU leaders to take the easy path and avoid any difficult conversations regarding the islands sovereignty, as giving way for China to take control of Taiwan would wreak havoc on the global economy, Rasmussen argued, citing a Rhodium Group analysis that a conflict could trigger $2 trillion of economic losses. Bringing up Taiwan will put leaders in an uncomfortable position with Xi for a few days, but staying silent will cost Europe far more in the long run, Rasmussen wrote.
Maduro votes in referendum on disputed territory with Guyana, in Caracas

By Julia Symmes Cobb

(Reuters) - Tensions between neighbors Venezuela and Guyana have ratcheted up in recent weeks over a long-running territorial dispute.

At issue is a 160,000-square-km (62,000-square-mile) border territory around the Esequibo river, which is mostly jungle, and an offshore area where massive discoveries of oil and gas have been made.

Both countries claim ownership of the territory, which is sparsely populated and whose much-disputed border was agreed under a 1899 decision when Guyana was still part of the British Empire.

WHAT HAS SPARKED THE TENSIONS?

Venezuela reactivated its claim to the territory in recent years after the finding of some 11 billion barrels of recoverable oil and gas off Guyana's coast.

Caracas won backing in a referendum at the weekend to create a new state and President Nicolas Maduro has pledged oil and mining exploration in the claimed area.

Analysts and sources in Caracas have said the referendum, in which voters also rejected the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) jurisdiction over the case, will not translate to actual invasion. It is, they say, an attempt by Maduro to show strength and gauge support for his government ahead of 2024 presidential elections.

WHY IS THE TERRITORY IMPORTANT?

Though the onshore area of the Esequibo is largely undeveloped jungle, there have been major offshore discoveries of crude and gas nearby in recent years, putting Guyana on the world map of oil producers.

A consortium by Exxon Mobil, China's CNOOC and U.S. Hess began oil production in Guyana in 2019.

Oil production is currently at some 400,000 barrels-per-day (bpd) of oil and gas and is expected to rise to more than 1 million bpd by 2027. It has sharply boosted Guyana's economy and promises huge income for the country over the coming years.

Though Venezuela sits on the world's largest crude reserves and also has massive deposits of natural gas, its production has fallen significantly in recent years on U.S. sanctions, alleged corruption and deteriorated infrastructure.

Maduro said on Tuesday he would authorize oil exploration in the Esequibo, with state oil company PDVSA and state iron-and-steel maker CVG creating divisions for the disputed region.

His office has said Guyana should not be allowed to grant concessions in "to-be demarcated" ocean areas.

It is not entirely clear which offshore areas Maduro is claiming for Venezuela, but he has said all companies already operating offshore Guyana have three months to leave. Exxon has said border disputes are for countries and relevant international bodies to solve.

WHAT HAS THE ICJ SAID?

Guyana had asked the ICJ to bar the referendum.

The court did not go that far in a ruling last week, but it prohibited Venezuela from taking any action that would change the status quo.

Maduro has repeatedly said the referendum is binding, though the vote was previously referred to by his government as "consultative."

WHAT HAS BEEN GUYANA'S RESPONSE?

Guyana's President Irfaan Ali said on Tuesday the country will report Maduro's comments about proposed oil development to the United Nations and the ICJ and that he has spoken with U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres.

His country's armed forces are on high alert, Ali added, saying Venezuela had declared itself an "outlaw nation" and blatantly disregard ICJ orders.

Ali also sought to calm potential investors, saying Guyana has been assured of support by partners and the international community.

Venezuela's foreign minister said on social media on Wednesday he spoke to his Guyanese counterpart about what he called Venezuela's "unappealable mandate".

Guyana's government has questioned turn-out figures given by Maduro's government for the referendum.

Electoral authorities on Sunday spoke about 10.5 million votes on the five referendum questions, but later said that figure referred to total voters. Reuters witnesses saw several poorly-attended polling places during the vote.

(Reporting by Julia Symmes Cobb, additional reporting by Deisy Buitrago, Marianna Parraga and Kiana Wilburg, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien)
Ten Wisconsin Republicans who signed inaccurate documents in 2020 purporting to show that Donald Trump won the battleground state have settled a civil lawsuit brought as a result of their actions.

As part of Wednesdays agreement, the fake electors acknowledged that Joe Biden won the presidency that year, withdrew their own fraudulent filings, and agreed not to serve as electors in 2024  or any other election with Trump on the ballot.

Additionally, a statement accompanying their retracted filings acknowledges the groups actions were part of an attempt to improperly overturn the 2020 presidential election results.

While the suit, brought by Bidens Democratic electors, originally asked for $2.4 million in damages, no money is involved in the settlement.

The Washington Post, which first reported the development, notes that it marks the first time that pro-Trump electors have publicly revoked their own filings.

Former Wisconsin Republican Party Chair Andrew Hitt speaks during an interview with a committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Former Wisconsin Republican Party Chair Andrew Hitt speaks during an interview with a committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

One of the fake electors, former Wisconsin Republican Party Chair Andrew Hitt, told The Associated Press that they didnt fully realize the scope of what theyd signed up for.

The Wisconsin electors were tricked and misled into participating in what became the alternate elector scheme, he said in a statement, and would have never taken any actions had we known that there were ulterior reasons beyond preserving an ongoing legal strategy.

Similar groups convened and advanced fraudulent electoral documents in Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, New Mexico, Nevada and Pennsylvania.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel asked for a federal investigation of the plot in January 2022, saying the groups were obviously acting as part of a much bigger conspiracy.

Prosecutors in Michigan and in Georgia have pursued criminal charges against fake electors, with Nessel pushing felonies for 16 Republicans accused in her state.

Related...
Our Disney World and Universal Orlando trip for a family of five cost about $7,000 for six nights.

Park tickets and accommodations were pricey, but our Disney hotel suite was worth the splurge.

We don't regret buying Genie+, but we wouldn't go to the parks in summer again.

In July, our family of five checked a Disney World and Universal Studios trip off our bucket list.

We tried to keep our trip budget-friendly by staying at the cheapest Disney resort we could find, limiting our add-ons (no character brunches or photo packages), and ordering groceries to our resort.

Here's what we spent:

Disney resort and park tickets : $4,226.73 for five nights at the Disney All-Star Music Resort and three park days for five people.

Universal Studios : $1,100.34 for one park day for four people plus transportation.

Food : $800 between a grocery order and a few restaurants.

Transportation : $482.90 for flights from Indianapolis, airport parking, and an airport shuttle. We covered most of our flights with airline credits we had earned  the full airfare would have topped $2,000.

Add-ons : $350 for MagicBands, Genie+, and souvenirs.

Total: $6,959.97.

After reflecting on the trip, here's what was worth our time and money and what we'd do differently next time.

Using a free travel planner was a huge win

Since no one in our group knew the ins and outs of Disney, we opted to use a Disney travel planner.

These planners are generally free because Disney pays them a commission.

Our travel consultant didn't cost us a dime, and they had great recommendations. They also handled all of our reservations.

We'd book a family suite at a Disney resort again

Our kids enjoyed the pools at Disney's All-Star Music Resort. Mandy Bray

As a family of five, we could've stayed at a cheaper hotel near Disney World and then paid for parking and a rental car. Or we could've tried squeezing into a double room at a Disney resort.

Instead, we opted to pay a little more for a family suite at Disney's All-Star Music Resort.

Our two-bedroom, two-bathroom suite had everything we needed: beds that pulled out of the wall, a kitchenette, and tons of cubby space.

The kitchenette wasn't really designed to fully cook meals in, but we made it work with our grocery order.

We also appreciated the Disney touches that came with our room, such as the personalized welcome screen in our room and the s'mores and movie screenings each night.

Genie+ was worth the price, but we'd skip the Universal Express passes again

Many people suggested we pay for Genie+, Disney's fast-pass system that lets you skip some lines in the park.

Prices vary, but Genie+ can sometimes cost from $15 to $35 per person per day. It took us a bit of work to figure out the booking system, but avoiding long, hot lines with kids made it worth it.

Universal Studios' closest equivalent is Express Passes, which would've cost $266 per person. We chose not to buy them.

Although we had to wait longer for some Universal rides, we used single-rider lines for some to skip crowds. The only downside was we couldn't sit together.

Building a rest day into our itinerary was key

Disney World can be overwhelming for some families. Handout/Getty Images

Theme parks make for some extra-long days for little kids.

Putting a rest day in the middle of our week gave all of us a chance to recharge by our resort's pool and spend time together.

We got our money's worth out of our resort and saved money since we didn't have to buy park passes on our rest day.

On the other hand, we'd visit during a different time of year

In July, Orlando is a hot, sticky mess.

We were drenched in sweat at 8 a.m., with heat indexes reaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit by the afternoon.

Next time, I would go to Disney World in spring, fall, or winter. We may also be able to get lower prices that way since summer is one of Disney's most popular seasons.

We'd also change up our park itinerary

My family would like to spend more time at Universal Studios Orlando next time we visit Florida. Solarisys/Shutterstock

As Disney World newbies, we planned for two days at Magic Kindom to find our footing and take full advantage of the sprawling park.

Next time, I'd spend no more than a day there, return to Animal Kingdom (my favorite!), and then check out Epcot or Hollywood Studios.

I'd also spend more days at Universal Studios on a return trip. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is extraordinary  and I loved the Velociraptor, Incredible Hulk Coaster, and Bourne Stuntacular.

We didn't have time to do everything in Universal in just one day.

Overall, we enjoyed our trip but won't be Disney regulars anytime soon

Theme parks are just one of the many experiences we want to expose our kids to. National parks, museums, and international travel are also a priority to us.

At about $7,000, our trip to Disney and Universal cost more than double what we've spent on other vacations.

Still, I'm glad we could give our kids a magical week.

We won't be annual Disney World trekkers anytime soon, but we'll probably be back.

Read the original article on Business Insider
FLEMING ISLAND, Fla. (AP)  The family of a 46-year-old Florida man has filed a wrongful death and negligence lawsuit against one of the biggest fast-casual restaurant chains in the U.S., claiming Panera Bread Companys caffeine-filled lemonade drink led to his death.

David Brown had high blood pressure and didnt drink energy drinks, but the lawsuit said he believed the Panera Charged Lemonade was safe since it was not advertised as an energy drink. It was offered in the same place as the restaurant chains non-caffeinated or less-caffeinated drinks, according to the lawsuit filed Monday in Superior Court in Delaware, where Panera Bread Company is registered.

The lawsuit states that on Oct. 9, Brown had the drink three times during a visit to the Panera Bread Company location in Fleming Island, Florida. On his walk home, he suffered cardiac arrest and died a short time later. He had ordered a Panera Charged Lemonade at least seven times over the course of two weeks in September and October, according to the lawsuit.

Homeless couple forced to live apart after babys birth

Defendants knew or should have known that the Panera Charged Lemonade, as designed and formulated, once consumed, could injure children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and people sensitive to caffeine by causing catastrophic injuries and/or death, the lawsuit said.

No one from Paneras corporate offices responded to an inquiry seeking comment Tuesday afternoon.

Brown had a chromosomal deficiency disorder, developmental delays, some blurred vision and mild intellectual disability, the lawsuit said. He had worked for 17 years at Publix Super Markets and would regularly go to the Panera restaurant after work for meals, as many as three times a week, because the lawsuit said he felt the chain advertised as being a healthy alternative to other restaurants.

Another wrongful death lawsuit was filed in October by the family of 21-year-old Sarah Katz, a University of Pennsylvania student with a heart condition who died in September 2022 after consuming the drink, according to media reports.

The privately-held Panera Bread Company, which is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, operates in 48 U.S. states and Canada.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
ATLANTA  Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who is prosecuting Donald Trump in Georgia for trying to overturn the 2020 election, is also trying to hold federal officials accountable in two other wholly unrelated cases. She has much better odds of convicting the former president.

In 2019, an Atlanta police officer serving on an FBI-led task force killed a 21-year-old Black man named Jimmy Atchison, who was wanted on a local warrant alleging he stole an acquaintances purse at gunpoint. The task force raided his girlfriends apartment and then chased Atchison, who local prosecutors said wasnt armed, into a neighbors home, where the officer shot him in a closet.

Willis predecessor as district attorney began building a case against the officer, Sung Kim. Prosecutors also launched an investigation into the death of Jamarion Robinson, a mentally ill 26-year-old who was shot 59 times by members of a U.S. Marshals task force in 2016.

Willis, who took office in January 2021, has pursued both cases. She charged the two officers who shot Robinson with murder in 2021, and in 2022 she charged Kim with murder, as well. All three officers pleaded not guilty. Legal experts predict that convictions are unlikely.

The Untouchables: NBC News investigates how federal law enforcement officials are able to harm people with little to no accountability.

Willis is the only local prosecutor in the country with two ongoing murder cases against members of Justice Department law enforcement task forces related to on-duty shootings. Nobodys above the law, Willis told NBC News. No citizen is beneath the protection of a district attorney. And no citizen is above prosecution if you do something wrong.

A flyer created by Jimmy Hill outside of the Richard B. Russell Federal building and Courthouse in Atlanta. (Alyssa Pointer for NBC News)

Atchison is one of at least 223 people shot by federal agents, task force officers or local police assisting in cases tied to Justice Department law enforcement agencies from 2018 to 2022, according to an analysis of court documents, law enforcement records and news accounts by NBC News.

During that period, local prosecutors, grand juries or law enforcement agencies deemed those shootings as justified 98% of the time. Of the 144 shooting reviews documented by NBC News, only two, including the Atchison case, resulted in criminal charges against on-duty officers.

Over the last three decades, a handful of local prosecutors have tried to convict federal agents or federal task force members of murder or manslaughter after fatal shootings. To date, no prosecutor has succeeded, according to a review of court cases on Thomson Reuters Westlaw.

Cases typically get moved to federal court, where they are more likely to be dismissed. Again and again, federal judges have dismissed charges by prosecutors, citing long-standing legal precedents.

In September, a federal judge moved Willis murder case against Kim from county court to federal court, where a federal judge is now presiding over it. Willis told NBC News that since then, family members of the victims and representatives from her office havent been treated well by Justice Department attorneys.

Thats not an acceptable thing. They are treated very poorly when they are in that courtroom, Willis said. It has troubled me the way that the victims families and my prosecutors and investigators have been treated.

Spokespeople for the Justice Department, the FBI and the U.S. Marshals declined to answer questions about specific cases. Donald Samuel, an attorney for Kim, who has retired from the Atlanta Police Department, declined to comment, as well.

Peter Carr, a spokesperson for the Justice Department, said in a statement that the department was proud of the work of its law enforcement officers. He added that it recognizes the importance of transparency and accountability and had recently updated its use-of-force policy.

Because there are circumstances where the use of force may occur, we recently updated our policy to ensure it parallels the best practices of federal, state and local law enforcement, Carr said.

Gerald Griggs, a civil rights attorney and the president of the Georgia chapter of the NAACP, said federal officials must do more. Griggs said he and other local activists are determined to use the Atchison and Robinson cases as a launchpad to ensure that federal officers are held to the same standard as local police.

People didnt understand that this is happening with federal officers. Everyone is focused on state and local officers, he told NBC News. We are litigating this issue and trying to change the law.

Jimmy Hill holds a poster with a photo of his son. (Alyssa Pointer for NBC News)

Theyre saying that theyre immune from prosecution

Four days after Christmas in 2018, a young woman told Atlanta police that Atchison, a friend of a friend, had pulled out a gun and stolen her handbag and cellphone, county records show. Atchison didnt have any prior felony convictions. Still, the FBIs Atlanta Metro Major Offender task force, which combines local police with federal agents, adopted the case.

On a cold January morning, the FBI-led task force raided Atchisons girlfriends apartment. Atchison was asleep inside, as were his two young children. Local prosecutors say the FBI didnt have a search warrant to enter the home. A foot chase ended inside a neighbors apartment with Atchison sitting in a bedroom closet under a pile of clothes. I see you. Dont f--king move, Kim shouted, according to FBI documents. Covered in garments, Atchison moved his right hand. Kim shot him in the face.

TFO Kim believed that Atchison was about to shoot him with a firearm, an FBI investigator later wrote.

When Fulton County filed charges in Atchisons case, his death became one of two cases in which criminal charges were filed against on-duty officers from 2018 to 2022 in an NBC News analysis of shootings involving Justice Department agencies.

In addition to the Atlanta case, in September 2022, prosecutors in Dane County, Wisconsin, charged a state law enforcement investigator with recklessly endangering safety by using a dangerous weapon.

The officer, Mark Wagner, who was working alongside agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration and other federal agencies, shot a 38-year-old unarmed Black man after officers boxed in his Hyundai SUV with their vehicles, according to court papers. The man, who survived the shooting, was wanted for violating state supervision after having sold drugs. Wagner told investigators that he thought the man had a gun.

The apartment complex in Atlanta where Jimmy Atchison was shot inside a closet. (Alyssa Pointer for NBC News)

In Atlanta, Seleta Griffin, under Willis predecessor, led the Public Integrity Unit, which investigated police misconduct. She investigated Atchisons death and the shooting of Jamarion Robinson.

In the Robinson investigation, which started in 2016, Griffin learned firsthand about the legal hurdles to prosecuting federal task force officers. For starters, when local officers join federal task forces, they are deputized with federal powers and protections. Members of the federal task force shot Robinson nearly 60 times while they were trying to serve a warrant, NBC News reported.

Officers said Robinson, 26, shot at them several times. The family denies that he fired, and his mother said she told law enforcement that Robinson had been diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Griffin learned that getting Justice Department law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to share case files and agency directives, along with granting interviews with federal agents and task force officers, was difficult.

Federal officials follow a 1951 U.S. Supreme Court decision, Touhy v. Ragen, that bars local law enforcement from getting subpoenaed information, testimony and other records about federal officers without permission from the Justice Department. Local prosecutors say the bureaucratic process, known as Touhy Requests, often drags on for months, slowing down their probes into potential abuse by federal law enforcement.

Its like the state versus the federal government, Griffin said. The Fulton County DAs office ultimately sued the Justice Department for access to files about the Robinson shooting. A federal judge ordered the Justice Department to pay the DAs office more than $114,000 in attorneys fees and costs, court records show.

People march through the streets with balloons and placards towards Washington Square in memory of Jamarion Robinson who was shot 76 times by federal agents on April 3, 2021 in New York City. (John Lamparski / NurPhoto via AP)

Griffin and other current and former prosecutors argue that their most formidable obstacle after they charge federal officers or task force members with local crimes is a passage of the Constitution that says federal law shall be the supreme Law of the Land. The U.S. Supreme Court has interpreted the provision, known as the Supremacy Clause, over the decades to mean states cant interfere with the federal governments police work.

We can indict all day long, Griffin said. Once its in federal court, thats where it gets dismissed. Because theyre saying that theyre immune from prosecution under federal protection.

The legal argument traces back to the 19th century. During the War of 1812, Congress protected federal customs officers from local interference. Subsequent laws protect other federal officers from being sued or prosecuted on the local level.

In 1889, a deputy with the U.S. Marshals, David Neagle, shot and killed a man who had been harassing a U.S. Supreme Court justice on a train in California. A sheriff arrested Neagle for murder, and the nations highest court stepped in and ruled that state officials couldnt jail Neagle for engaging in acts on behalf of the federal government.

More than 130 years later, federal officers still use the Neagle ruling to argue that local prosecutors cant pursue criminal charges against federal law enforcement, and usually federal judges agree.

Under current federal law, officers can ask federal judges to transfer their cases from the state level into the federal court system, where, under the Supremacy Clause, federal judges often throw out charges brought by local prosecutors.

That tangle of protections has made it all but impossible to stop federal courts from shielding federal officers from legal repercussions, experts say. And the protections extend to local officers who are formally deputized as members of federal task forces.

Is the fix to have the feds not defend the federal task force? Well, that wont happen, said Daniel Richman, a former federal prosecutor who is now a professor at Columbia Law School. The federal government takes all its equities into account, and those equities include protecting agents from what it thinks might be improper prosecutions.

When Griffin became the supervisor of the Public Integrity Unit in 2019, Atchisons death was the first new case to come across her desk. After her unit completed its investigation into the federal task forces that shot both Robinson and Atchison, Covid hit. Her office could no longer convene grand juries, and the indictments stalled.

In 2020, Fani Willis, a former prosecutor in the district attorneys office and a magistrate judge, unseated a six-term incumbent. Willis, who secured the endorsement of the Atlanta police union, won the election after having campaigned to clear a backlog of police misconduct cases and fight corruption.

After she took office, Willis took over the Robinson and Atchison cases, presented them to grand juries and secured indictments against three officers involved in the shootings. Sung Kim, who shot Atchison, was charged with felony murder and involuntary manslaughter in December 2022.

Portrait of Fani Willis, District Attorney for Fulton County Georgia on December 5, 2023 in Manhattan, NY. (Natalie Keyssar for NBC News)

They look after their own

The issue extends beyond legal precedents. Current and former prosecutors who have tried to prosecute federal officers say they are outmatched by the sheer number of lawyers the Justice Department can muster.

There were 10 lawyers on their side against just me, recalled Denise Woodbury, a former Idaho prosecutor who charged an FBI sniper with involuntary manslaughter after he mistakenly shot and killed a suspects wife during a standoff in Ruby Ridge in 1992. The case became infamous among far-right militia members.

A federal judge, citing the Supremacy Clause, ruled that the FBI agent was immune from state prosecution. They look after their own, rather than look for justice, Woodbury said.

A federal appeals court later ruled that the state could reopen the case, but Woodburys successor declined to do so.

In 2014, the district attorneys office in Austin, Texas, charged an FBI task force officer named Charles Kleinert with manslaughter. Kleinert was at a bank investigating a robbery in 2013 when Larry Jackson approached employees, gave a false identity and asked to withdraw cash.

Kleinert began to question Jackson, who ran away. When he caught up to Jackson, a physical struggle ended with Kleinert shooting Jackson in the neck. Kleinert says he fired his weapon accidentally.

The local district attorney charged Kleinert, an Austin police detective who was a deputized member of a FBI federal task force at the time, with murder. U.S. District Judge Lee Yeakel, citing the Supremacy Clause, dismissed the charges. The district attorneys office appealed the case up to the Supreme Court, which declined to hear it.

Yeakel, now an attorney in private practice, told NBC News that by declining to take the Kleinert case, the Supreme Court has yet to answer whether Supremacy Clause protections apply to local police officers on federal task forces.

They could leave Neagle in place but say the protections afforded are for a purely federal officer performing purely federal officer duties, Yeakel said. They can restrict the Supremacy Clause immunity.

More recently, a federal judge stopped prosecutors in Virginia from pursuing a state involuntary manslaughter case in 2021 against two officers with the U.S. Park Police. The officers chased a car whose driver fled a nonfatal hit-and-run. The chase ended with officers shooting and killing the motorist.

Steve Descano, the local prosecutor, said he tried to prosecute the Park Police officers despite warnings from the Justice Department that his effort would prove fruitless.

The Department of Justice would not allow FBI agents and the investigators in their case to be part of our case, Descano said. It was basically a dead letter to us.

NBC News found that federal prosecutors failed to charge any federal agents or task force officers for shootings that occurred from 2018 to 2022. Local prosecutors, during the same period, charged 79 state and local officers with murder or manslaughter after on-duty shootings, according to Philip Stinson, a criminal justice professor at Bowling Green State University who tracks nonfederal officers charged with crimes.

Side by side of Jimmy Atchison's grave and his father holding a photo on his phone of Jimmy as a child. (Alyssa Pointer for NBC News)

Former federal prosecutors said state prosecutors handle murder or manslaughter cases, unless there are connections to a federal crime, such as the murder of a federal officer.

You cant just say: I hate that this agent assaulted or killed somebody. So Im going to open a federal case, said Joyce Vance, an NBC News legal analyst who was the U.S. attorney for Northern Alabama during the Obama administration. Thats not how it works.

I am trying to get this global

Now that former officer Sung Kims murder case has been moved to federal court, past decisions suggest it will be dismissed. The murder case Fulton County prosecutors filed against officers who killed Jamarion Robinson is still alive, but similarly endangered.

The case is believed to be the first in which an agent with the U.S. Marshals has been charged for a fatal on-duty shooting. Eric Heinze, an assistant chief inspector and a high-ranking officer with the U.S. Marshals, remains on the job. A federal judge moved the case to federal court, where the judge has yet to rule on whether the officers can be prosecuted.

Monteria Robinson, Jamarions mother, remains hopeful the federal judge will let the case go forward.

Monteria Robinson, Jamarion Robinson's mother, with her lawyer, Andrew M. Stroth, outside the federal courthouse in Atlanta in 2018. (Kate Brumback / AP)

The law enforcement officers that killed my son must be convicted, sentenced and sent to prison to serve their time just like any other citizen in this country who commits murder, she said.

Lance LoRusso, an attorney for Heinze, argued that officers on federal task forces have a constitutional right to have local charges filed against them moved to federal court.

Its not any harder to prosecute federal officers. You just have to do it in federal court, LoRusso said. Its a basic concept of federalism.

Willis said that, after her office indicted members of the U.S. Marshals task force, the federal agency rolled back its fugitive investigations in the Atlanta area. I think its shameful, Willis said. I take it as a situation that could make citizens less safe.

Court filings by Willis office say the U.S. Marshals task force didnt have the authority to arrest Robinson on state crimes. The U.S Marshals consider those legal filings substantiation of an unwillingness to acknowledge their legal authority to execute state warrants, federal officials say. As a result, they say, marshals now fear that local prosecutors will charge them for simply helping local police do their jobs.

Drew Wade, a spokesman for the U.S. Marshals, said the agencys fugitive investigations are based on our statutory mission to safely bring offenders to justice under the law.

In Atchisons case, Kims lawyer argues that he shouldnt face murder charges because he is protected by both the Supremacy Clause and the state self-defense law. A trial date for Kim hasnt been set.

A side by side showing a portrait of Jimmy Hill and Jimmy Hill protesting outside the courthouse. (Alyssa Pointer for NBC News)

The legal developments havent deterred Atchisons father, Jimmy Hill, from holding protests at the federal and Fulton County courthouses, where he hands out flyers about his sons death. I am trying to get this global. I am tired of seeing people hurt, said Hill, 61.

My son wasnt a terrorist. He wasnt a flight risk. He didnt fit the criteria as to why the FBI would be involved, Hill said.

Hills activism has attracted a variety of civil rights heavyweights. He and his family have met with the NAACP, the Southern Center for Human Rights and a United Nations delegation, along with various elected officials.

Their message is simple: Even though theyre working on the federal task force, they still dont have the right to just kill somebody, said Tammie Featherstone, Atchisons aunt.

Willis would like to see federal law enforcement agencies enact multiple reforms. She questioned why federal agencies and task forces still arent wearing body cameras at all times.

Another difficulty in prosecuting [is] when you have federal agents running around without bodycams, making it more difficult to know the facts or ascertain the facts about the case, she said.

Willis also called for reforms that would allow people accused of local crimes whose cases have been moved into federal courts to have them heard by local juries instead of federal ones. In Atchisons case, that would be the difference between a jury of Atlanta-area residents and one made up of people from across the northern half of the state.

I am hopeful that we will still get fair results, Willis said.

The Mt. Harmony Memorial Gardens cemetery. (Alyssa Pointer for NBC News)

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Some Republicans are calling for impeachment of Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes after two county supervisors were indicted.

Impeachment fever has reached Arizona as the Maricopa County Republican Party brain trust on Tuesday called for the ouster of Democratic Attorney General Kris Mayes.

The partys hard-right leaders are furious that a pair of Republican Cochise County supervisors have been indicted on charges that they interfered with the 2022 election.

Apparently, its now a grotesque abuse of office to require county supervisors to follow state law  the one that says they must certify election results within 20 days of an election.

Look for party hardliners to get plenty of support from the Arizona Legislatures far-right contingent, which is hyperventilating about the disgusting weaponization of the AGs Office.

Hoffman puts impeachment on the table

So much so, in fact, that they plan to embark upon a little weaponization of their own.

You can bet your a-- that the @AZFreedomCaucus will be looking at every possible option to make weaponizing our states government and abusing Executive power as painful as humanly possible, Sen. Jake Hoffman, R-Queen Creek and Freedom Caucus chairman, announced on social media shortly after last weeks indictments.

This includes legal action, budget, O&I (oversight and investigation), statutory, and everything else up to and including impeachment.

Just coincidentally (Im sure), Hoffman is under investigation by Mayes for his role in the fake elector scheme to overturn Arizonas 2020 presidential election results. Nevada on Monday joined Michigan and Georgia in indicting its fake electors.

Judd and Crosby, meanwhile, are facing the possibility of prison (though more likely a fine) and a hefty legal tab, given that taxpayers wont fund their leaders criminal defense.

No doubt, Kari Lake and the MAGA crowd  the people who urged the supervisors to refuse to certify even if it meant going to jail  will open their wallets to help.

Supervisors ignored the law in protest

Judd and Crosby are in hot water for refusing to certify the countys 2022 election results by Nov. 28, 2022, having bought into a discredited MAGA conspiracy theory that the tabulation equipment was suspect.

Judd told The New York Times, however, that the decision not to certify was a protest of election problems in Maricopa County.

A protest that, had it stood, could have disenfranchised conservative Cochise Countys 47,000 voters and resulted in the defeat of both Republican Rep. Juan Cisocmani and state Superintendent Tom Horne.

This is what happens: When suckers ignore election law

Sure, that makes sense.

Ultimately, the supervisors approved the election canvass in early December, after being ordered to do so by a judge.

ARS 16-642, after all, says county supervisors shall certify the election within 20 days of the vote  meaning by Nov. 28.

So, then, it's war against Mayes?

They were repeatedly advised of that by Republican Cochise County Attorney Brian McIntyre.

Which matters not at all to the hard right, which is now racing to decry the illegitimate political prosecution of the brave elected officials of Cochise County.

Kris Mayes prosecution of Cochise County Supervisors Peggy Judd and Tom Crosby is an act of political prosecution common in dictatorships or communist countries, the Maricopa County Republican Committees executive board howled.

The weaponization of government might fly in the filthy swamp of Washington DC, but only over our dead bodies will the Democratic Fascists currently occupying Arizonas executive branch bring that corruption to our state, Hoffman huffed.

So its war then. Again.

Or still.

Reach Roberts at laurie.roberts@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter, at @LaurieRoberts or on Threads at @laurierobertsaz.

Support local journalism: Subscribe to azcentral.com today.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Impeach Kris Mayes for enforcing election law? The far-right says yes
The father of the most infamous serial killer in Milwaukee history has died.

Lionel Dahmer, the father of Jeffrey Dahmer, was 87 years old and died in hospice care in Medina County, Ohio, on Tuesday.

He was, of course, thrown into the national spotlight after police discovered his son's gruesome crimes in Milwaukee in 1991.

Lionel Dahmer, father of serial killer Jeffrey L. Dahmer, talks with his wife, Shari, during first day of testimony in Dahmer's sanity trial.

It was revealed in a September Fox Nation series that Lionel recorded many of his conversations with Jeffrey while he was incarcerated.

"I had weird thoughts too in my childhood" Lionel said to Jeffrey. "You're just like me, Jeff. Amazing all the times that I should have been caught I never was. Nothing. Absolutely nothing is too great not to be forgiven."

Lionel's love for his son was unconditional. He told the Akron Beacon Journal in 1991 that the murders didn't square with the polite boy he remembered as a child. Jeffrey "was not born a monster," he said.

How could anyone be polite and kind and pretty normal otherwise and yet do these things unless they are extremely troubled and insane?"

Lionel was born on July 29, 1936, in West Allis. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from the University of Wisconsin in 1959, the same year he married Joyce Flint. The couple had son Jeffrey Lionel Dahmer on May 21, 1960.

The Rev. Gene Champion (right) consoles Jeffrey L. Dahmer's stepmother and father, Shari and Lionel, during a break in testimony during Jeffrey Dahmer's sanity trial in February 1992.

Lionel earned a Master of Science degree from Marquette University in 1962 and a doctorate in chemistry from Iowa State in 1966. The family moved to Ohio and bought a home in 1968 in Bath Township. Lionel worked as a chemist for PPG Industries.

Shortly after, Lionel moved to a hotel after suing Joyce for divorce, alleging gross neglect. His estranged wife moved to Wisconsin with their younger son, leaving Jeffrey alone in the Bath home in the summer of 1978. Jeffrey picked up hitchhiker Steven M. Hicks, 18, of Coventry Township, and killed him in the Dahmer residence June 18 of that year.

After the Dahmer divorce was finalized July 20, 1978, Lionel married Jeffreys stepmother, Shari, and moved to Granger Township in Ohio.

Jeffrey's mother, Joyce, died on Nov. 27, 2000, in Fresno, California. She told the Journal Sentinel in 1995 that she often struggled with her son's crimes and she attempted suicide. She died of breast cancer in 2000. She was 64.

Jeffrey Dahmer (left) poses with his mother, Joyce Flint, and younger brother, David. The undated portrait was provided by Flint.

Lionels second wife, Shari, died Jan. 13, 2023, at a nursing home in Medina County at age 81.

When Jeffrey Dahmer was sentenced to five years of probation in 1989 for molesting a child, Lionel asked the judge to maximize the sentence and get Jeffrey treatment. This may be our last chance to institute something effective, he wrote.

After Jeffrey was charged with murder in 1991, he admitted to killing 17 young men and boys, beginning with Hicks in 1978.

Lionel visited his son in prison every month after his conviction. He wrote about Jeffrey in the 1994 book A Fathers Story, acknowledging that he had operated on a level of obliviousness, or perhaps denial, that was scarcely imaginable during his sons life.

An inmate beat Jeffrey to death Nov. 28, 1994, while serving life sentences in the Columbia Correctional Institution in Wisconsin. He was 34.

The Dahmer family was back in the spotlight last year after Netflix released "Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story." The series came with rave reviews and racked up lots of awards. Some of the victim's families have spoken out saying the series glorified the killer.

Mark J. Price of the Akron Beacon Journal contributed to this report.

Causey column: A memorial to Jeffrey Dahmer's victims is long overdue in Milwaukee

More: What's real and what's fiction in Netflixs Jeffrey Dahmer series, Monster

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Father of Milwaukee serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, Lionel, dies at 87
A father and son are facing charges in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash that happened in West Price Hill in September, according to the Hamilton County Prosecutor's Office.

A Hamilton County grand jury on Tuesday indicted Trevor Johnson of Hamilton on charges including aggravated vehicular homicide, cruelty to companion animals, obstructing justice and failure to stop after an accident.

His father, Richard Johnson of Cincinnati's Riverside neighborhood, was also indicted Tuesday on a single count each of obstructing justice and tampering with evidence.

Kymberly Maclary, 33, was crossing Glenway Avenue just before 9:30 p.m. on Sept. 23 when she was struck, Cincinnati police said.

Investigators reported she was in a crosswalk, but the vehicle had a green light. Police said the driver, Trevor Johnson, fled the scene.

Richard Johnson tried to help his son hide the vehicle by covering it up and removing the license plate, said Amy Clausing, a spokesperson for the prosecutor's office.

Maclary was taken to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center where she died, police said.

She was walking her dogs when the crash happened, according to Enquirer media partner Fox19. Both of the dogs were killed.

The Johnsons weren't listed in jail records as being inmates at the Hamilton County Justice Center as of Tuesday evening. Court records regarding the charges weren't immediately available.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Prosecutors: Father, son accused of hiding evidence in fatal crash
The FBI arrested a man in Arizona last week over online comments that allegedly incited what authorities described as a religiously motivated terrorist attack in Australia in which six people died, officials said Wednesday. Two police officers and a bystander were shot dead in an ambush when police went to a remote rural property in the state of Queensland on Dec. 12, 2022, authorities say. Gareth Train, brother Nathaniel Train, and Nathaniels wife, Stacey Trainwho carried out the attackwere all killed by police. Now an unnamed 58-year-old man in Arizona has been detained on a U.S. charge for allegedly inciting the violence. We know that the offenders executed a religiously motivated terrorist attack in Queensland, Queensland Police Assistant Commissioner Cheryl Scanlon said, referring to the Trains. They were motivated by a Christian extremist ideology. Scanlon said the American had sent messages containing Christian end-of-days ideology to Gareth and then later to Stacey, though the FBI is still investigating the U.S. mans alleged motive.

Read it at Associated Press

Read more at The Daily Beast.
The FBI and local authorities are examining the cause of a home explosion that erupted in northern Virginia on Monday night as police were trying to execute a search warrant, as well as concerning social media posts allegedly made by a suspect who investigators believe was barricaded inside, authorities said.

The suspect, 56-year-old James Yoo, is presumed to be dead after human remains were found at the scene of the incinerated home in Arlington, just 5 miles southwest of the nations capital, Arlington County Police Chief Andy Penn said Tuesday.

James Yoo - From James Yoo/WUSA

Medical examiners will work to positively identify the remains and determine the cause and manner of death, he said.

When the explosion happened, police were trying to serve a search warrant at the duplex where Yoo lived over suspicions that he had fired more than 30 flare gun rounds from the home into the surrounding neighborhood earlier in the day, police said. The warrant was obtained to secure any weapons in the home and ensure there would be no ongoing threat to the community, he said.

The explosion led to evacuations at several homes, officials initially said. The countys deputy manager for public safety, Aaron Miller, said Tuesday that 10 households were impacted by the incident and the county has been helping some of them by providing shelter, toiletries and other necessities. Its unclear to what extent the households were impacted.

Since the explosion, investigators have uncovered concerning social media posts allegedly made by Yoo, the police chief said.

LinkedIn posts from Yoos account espouse rambling and at times incoherent conspiracy theories against government officials, law enforcement, media outlets and, in one post on Friday, his neighbors whom the post accuses of being spies and collecting his information for unnamed handlers.

The explosion and the suspect are being investigated by the Arlington County Fire Department and a team of northern Virginia law enforcement, with assistance from the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Penn said.

Heres what else we know about the incident and the suspect so far.

Suspect had been calling and writing to FBI for years, authorities say

Both the FBI and Arlington police said Tuesday that they had previously interacted with Yoo, but none of the encounters led authorities to open investigations.

Yoo had communicated with the FBI for several years through phone calls, letters and online tips, said David Sundberg, assistant director in charge of the agencys Washington, DC, field office.

I would characterize these communications as primarily complaints about alleged frauds he believed were perpetrated against him, Sundberg said. The communications did not prompt the agency to open any investigations, he added.

Prior to Monday, Arlington police had documented only two calls for service at the address over the past few years, both for complaints about loud noise, according to Penn.

Authorities gather Tuesday at the scene of a home that exploded a day earlier in Arlington, Virginia. - Stefani Reynolds/AFP/Getty Images

How the explosion unfolded

Officers first came to the home in Arlingtons Bluemont neighborhood shortly before 5 p.m. Monday due to a report of possible shots fired near the residence, police said.

Further investigation revealed the suspect had discharged a flare gun from the home more than 30 times into the surrounding neighborhood, police said.

Officers attempted to engage with the suspect without success, Penn, the police chief, said Tuesday. A search warrant was ultimately obtained to allow our officers to secure any weapons to ensure there would be no ongoing threat to the community.

Police tried to communicate with Yoo by phone and through loudspeakers, but he wouldnt respond and remained barricaded inside, according to police.

As an emergency response team breached the front door, the suspect fired several rounds, from what is believed to have been a firearm, inside the home, Penn said.

Officers continued trying to engage with the suspect and bring him into custody but could not locate the source of the suspected gunfire, Penn said. They then began to deploy non-flammable, less lethal chemical munitions to multiple areas within the residence where the suspect was believed to be hiding to get the suspect to surrender, the chief said.

Sometime afterward, around 8:25 p.m., the home exploded, police said.

Video taken by a witness shows law enforcement vehicles surrounding a multi-story home when an explosion sends a plume of flames, embers and smoke into the air and debris raining down into the street. The force of the explosion blew the roof and several walls apart, causing the structure to collapse.

Firefighters worked into early Tuesday to extinguish the blaze, said Jason Jenkins, assistant chief of the Arlington County Fire Department.

Other residents of the duplex where Yoo lived were evacuated before the explosion, Penn said. Fire personnel had also turned off the gas supply to the home before the explosion happened, according to Jenkins.

Thankfully, there were no serious injuries to any officers, other public safety officials or community members, Penn said.

Neighbors rattled by powerful blast

The explosion reverberated throughout the neighborhood Monday night, stunning many residents.

Resident Davin Mitchell told CNN affiliate WJLA that he was watching the law enforcement activity around the home when it erupted. The force of the blast threw him back several feet, he said.

It was just shell-shocking, Mitchell said. It rocked you to your core.

Earlier that day, Mitchell said he saw about 20 flares being fired in the neighborhood and hitting the street.

Another neighborhood resident, Emily Saxon, said she was lying on her couch and physically recoiled when the explosion shook her home.

I had no idea what it was. I quite literally thought maybe there was a car that ran through my living room because it was that abrupt, Saxon told WJLA.

Police have said there is no ongoing threat to the community.

CNNs Melissa Alonso, Holmes Lybrand, Hannah Rabinowitz, Amanda Jackson and Sara Smart contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
UPDATED STORY: FBI: No arrests made after flight diverted to Jacksonville

UPDATE 6:30 a.m.- Breeze Airways told Action News Jax that the new flight number is #8717. It is scheduled to leave Jacksonville at 11:30 a.m. and arrive in Providence, Rhode Island at 3:30 p.m.

Original story below:

The FBI is investigating after a flight from Orlando was diverted to Jacksonville on Tuesday from what officials called an onboard incident.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

Passengers say a bomb threat diverted the flight -- and canceled it until Wednesday.

Action News Jax Ben Ryan spoke with two passengers on the plane and they said someone talked about a bomb while they were seated. The flight was grounded after being in the air for about 45 minutes.

The FBI is investigating the incident but said they didnt have reason to think the threat was credible. They wanted to ensure passenger safety.

Read: Southwest says plane damaged after hitting light pole at JIA, same day Delta flight was diverted

Apologies can be heard on video from a handcuffed man who flight passengers said was the reason their plane to Providence made an emergency landing in Jacksonville.

The FBI said the reason for the flight diversion was an on-board incident.

Rachel Corrigan, a passenger on the flight, said there was a bomb threat -- saying that it started as some sort of conflict between two people before they boarded and continued just before takeoff.

The guy said Ill tell people you have a bomb in your bag and she said Ill tell them you have weapons on you.

The incident happened on Breeze Airways flight 717 going to Providence after it left Orlando.

Video from passengers on board showed an up-close angle of a man and woman being taken off the plane in handcuffs.

A second video showed the man being walked out followed by applause.

Passengers said the two were arrested but Action News Jax is working to learn who they are and what charges they will be facing.

We were sitting without answers, without direction, and now were stuck here, one passenger said. We can book our own hotel here and get reimbursed and fly out tomorrow.

Read: Ex-Alaska Airlines pilot accused of trying to cut planes engines indicted on endangerment charges

Breeze Airways sent us a statement saying theyre working with local authorities. Safety is our paramount concern and we will share more information as it becomes available.

The passengers told me they were given a reimbursement fee to book a hotel for the night, saying they were leaving tomorrow.

Flightaware tracking shows Flight 717 being diverted to JAX.

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Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  The Federal Bureau of Investigation is searching for three federal fugitives, and Kansas City-area residents will now see their faces on billboards across the metro.

Zamewick Buck McCray, Devion Rooster Miles and Jermon Crowe McCray were among 15 people indicted in September in a $7.9 million drug conspiracy.

Hundreds gather to support 9-year-old boy hit by suspected drunk driver in Shawnee

All three were charged with distribution of fentanyl and were last seen in Kansas City. They also have strong ties to the Chicago area.

Zamewick McCray, 31, is described as a 5-foot-7 Black man, weighing 130 pounds. Jermon McCray is described as a 29-year-old Black man, approximately 5-foot-7 and 130 pounds. Miles is a 28-year-old Black man, weighing 130 pounds and 5-foot-7.

Digital billboards across the KC area will now display wanted signs of the three men. Theyll be located at I-70 and State Line, I-435 near 23rd Street, I-35 near Chouteau Trafficway, and I-435 near Eastwood Trafficway.

Zamewick McCary billboard (photo via FBI)

Devion Miles billboard (photo via FBI)

Jermon McCary billboard (photo via FBI

The FBI said they should be considered armed and dangerous, and members of the public should not confront them. Call law enforcement immediately.

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Anyone with information is asked to call the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-8477 or report a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

In Leavenworth County youll also see the faces of DesiRee Washington,19, Cruz Burris, 15, and Caleb Jackson, 18, on a billboard. All three died this year taking a fake pill that turned out to have a deadly dose of fentanyl. The billboard reads fentanyl killed our holidays, dont let it kill yours.

Obviously we cant bring our kids back, but if we can save another child thats our goal here, Kelly Garner, Washingtons mother, said.

Parents of the young people on the billboard say they are glad to see the FBI go after suspected fentanyl distributors, but would

What Im hearing is they dont want to investigate or prosecute the small people. They are going for the big fish and while they are trying to investigate the big fish our kids are being killed, Andy Burris said.

Make these people accountable that are out here distributing these drugs, because pretty much they are deceiving our children into thinking its one thing and they are being murdered, Garner said.

Each say they know who gave or sold their child the single pill that killed them, but to their knowledge theyve never been questioned. But if federal authorities can get the people thought to be responsible for millions of dollars of fentanyl and meth making it into the metro, they call it a start.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
The Department of Homeland Security monitored web posts critical of a proposed police training center in Atlanta known as Cop City and shared its findings with state and local law enforcement ahead of a crackdown that left one protester dead and more than 40 others charged with domestic terrorism.

Related: Atlanta police use Signal to discuss Cop City amid outcry over transparency

The federal reports, shared with the Atlanta police and the Georgia bureau of investigation, concluded that property damage in the name of stopping Cop City, a planned $90m police training center in Atlantas South River Forest, was consistent with anarchist violent extremist and environmental violent extremist ideologies. A separate report from the multiagency National Counterterrorism Center reached a similar conclusion.

The records, seen by Drilled and the Guardian through a public records request, provide new details about how federal agencies founded in the wake of 9/11 laid the groundwork for Georgia to charge organizers camping in the woods as terrorists, and reflect a wider US and global crackdown on environmental protest.

DHSs communications undoubtedly contributed to Georgia authorities harsh crackdown on the Stop Cop City movement, said Charlie Hogle, a staff attorney with the American Civil Liberties Unions National Security Project, over email. The documents reinforce our concerns about DHSs overbroad and stigmatizing use of domestic violent extremism and related labels, which has long resulted in unwarranted surveillance, investigation, and even prosecution of environmental and racial and social justice activists.

One of those activists is Vienna Forrest. In the summer of 2022, she moved into a tent in the woods alongside other forest defenders who sought to block construction of the 380-acre police training center. When she first heard that police were describing activists like her as eco-terrorists, It seemed like an improbable joke to us, she said.

Though some forest defenders appear to have participated in property destruction or built barricades to keep police or private security from evicting them, others simply occupied the space to prevent construction of a project they worried would lead to over-policing and exacerbate environmental injustices.

Forrest described the group as a bunch of young punks, partying in the woods and feeding their community. There, Forrest met and fell in love with an activist known as Tortuguita, whose legal name was Manuel Paez Teran.

A year and a half later, Forrest has a much more somber take on what it means to be called an eco-terrorist. Last December, she was arrested in the woods and charged under Georgias domestic terrorism law, which was broadened in the wake of the 2015 killing of nine Black parishioners by a white supremacist gunman in Charleston, South Carolina.

Then in January, state troopers shot and killed 26-year-old Teran during an attempt to evict the forest defenders. The Georgia bureau of investigation had briefed officers in advance of the raid that they would be encountering dangerous domestic terrorists, according to records obtained by Rolling Stone. Authorities claimed Teran fired first, but there were no witnesses besides the police. An autopsy later revealed that Teran had been shot 57 times in the head, torso, hands and legs.

Officers arrested several more people that day on domestic terror charges. Arrest affidavits for 14 of the forest defenders stated that DHS designated members of Defend the Atlanta Forest as domestic violent extremists and said the group had taken responsibility, via web posts and graffiti, for vandalism and arson, throwing Molotov cocktails and fireworks, and blocking access to private land.

As the year progressed, more Cop City protesters were arrested and charged with domestic terrorism. Then, in May, three organizers who operated a bail fund were charged with charities fraud and money laundering. Their arrest affidavits also included language stating that DHS had designated members of Defend the Atlanta Forest as domestic violent extremists. The Georgia governor, Brian Kemp, claimed in a statement that the non-profit workers facilitated and encouraged domestic terrorism.

A representative for DHS told Drilled and the Guardian that the agency does not classify or designate any groups as domestic violent extremists. However, a bulletin the agency released in May indicates its officers did consider some Cop City opponents to be extremists.

The National Terrorism Advisory System bulletin referred to Cop City opponents as alleged DVEs. Additional records, first published by Unicorn Riot, showed that the FBI was labeling Cop City opponents as anarchist and environmental violent extremists in August 2022.

The lack of clarity drew the attention of the senator Raphael Warnock and some of the nations largest civil rights organizations, who wrote letters this summer to DHS demanding that the agency publicly disclose all information and DHS intelligence or situational awareness reports that DHS provided to Georgia state and local law enforcement.

The records published in this report help answer this request, providing some of the only details about how DHS and other federal agencies communicated with Atlanta officers in the months before the charges were filed.

The DHS files are Open Source Intelligence Reports, a type of surveillance product that has repeatedly come under scrutiny, including in a recent report by the Brennan Center for Justice. OSIRs contain raw unevaluated information and do not go through the same vetting process as other DHS reports. The top of each report includes a statement saying: This information may not be used as the basis for any US legal process including incorporation into affidavits or other documents relating to subpoenas, search, electronic surveillance, or arrest warrants; and/or as evidence in criminal prosecutions.

In an emailed statement, a representative for DHS said that the agency is committed to preventing all forms of terrorism and targeted violence, and does so in ways that protect privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties, and that adhere to all applicable laws. To that end, DHS regularly shares information regarding the heightened threat environment with federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial officials to ensure the safety and security of all communities across the country.

The agency pointed out that the Office of Intelligence and Analysis, which produces the OSIRs, announced last May that it was undergoing an overhaul to increase oversight.

The Georgia bureau of investigation referred Drilled and the Guardian to the office of the Georgia attorney general, Chris Carr, which sent the following statement: We have continued to defend the First Amendment right to peacefully protest, but protestors use words. Violence is not speech and will not be tolerated in Georgia.

Documents received in response to the public records request also reveal that the Atlanta police department received reports from federal agencies and academic institutions examining, defining and debating the nature of eco-terrorism. One report includes a term paper by a homeland security officer for the Atlanta fire department in which the author repeatedly refers to Defend the Atlanta Forest members as eco-terrorists or environmental terrorists.

The Atlanta police department declined to comment on the documents, and the reports author did not respond to a request for comment.

Atlanta officers also received quarterly issues of The Searchlight, a magazine-style bulletin dedicated to violent extremist threats to critical infrastructure published by the National Counterterrorism Center. The September 2022 issue describes anti-Cop City destruction of construction vehicles and office buildings as Anarchist- and Environmental Violent ExtremistRelated Attacks. The article was placed on the same page as a blurb about the Islamic State.

The National Counterterrorism Centers mission is to protect the United States by analyzing, integrating, and sharing terrorist threat-related information with partners, said a spokesperson for the center. NCTC primarily focuses on addressing international terrorism threats, though also provides support to the Department of Homeland Security and Federal Bureau of Investigation as the government leads for countering domestic violent extremism.

Together the materials show how evolving ideas about an eco-terrorist threat met a movement aimed directly at law enforcement and turned into one of the most severe crackdowns against environmental activists in a generation.

Lauren Regan, the director of the Civil Liberties Defense Center, which is providing legal defense for some Cop City opponents, suggested that the idea of eco-terrorism exists only to criminalize disruptive environmental activism. Far-right extremists and their water carriers have used that phrase for an incredibly wide swath of anything that they dont like, whether it is very traditional civil disobedience or whether it engages in economic sabotage, she said. It is all being dumped into this label called eco-terrorist, which is basically just a slanderous term.

Not all the eco-extremism literature sent to officers indicated that so-called environmental violent extremists were dangerous. A DHS Office of Intelligence and Analysis summary titled Domestic Violent Extremist Attacks and Plots in the United States From 2010 Through 2021 listed white supremacists as by far the most common perpetrators, tied to 51 attacks and plots. Environmental violent extremists were responsible for six incidents.

The targeting of Atlanta protesters has continued. In September, the Georgia attorney general charged 61 organizers, including Forrest, with criminal racketeering, under the state Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, known as Rico, which was designed to take down organized crime. Such charges could carry 20-year sentences.

To think of us as some evil masterminding organization is just ridiculous to me, Forrest said. If youve ever been in the forest, organization is not the word I would use for it.

In recent years, fossil fuel companies have repeatedly filed civil Rico lawsuits against environmental activists and their supporters. Targets like Greenpeace say the suits are meant to smear the organizations names, drain them of resources and chill activism. However, cases of public officials filing criminal Rico charges against activists are exceedingly rare in the US.

The September indictments included money-laundering charges for the three non-profit workers and domestic terrorism charges for five people. Georgia prosecutors have not yet said whether they will pursue domestic terror charges against the other dozens of defendants.

Project opponents have continued to protest, fight in court and pursue other strategies to halt the advancing construction  but the forest is no longer occupied.

The arrests and accusations have had life-altering consequences. Online bullies have doxed some terror defendants, posting information about their families, residences and employers. The terror label provided fodder for rightwing critics, who used it to amplify claims of growing leftwing violence  even though an analysis by Grist showed that most of the allegations in the Rico suit are tied to non-violent actions.

In the case of Teran, the eco-terrorist label may have cost him his life, activists believe.

Forrest remembers the last time she saw Teran. She had been released on bond under the condition that she wouldnt use social media to contact members of Defend the Atlanta Forest. Concerned, many of her friends avoided talking to her  but not Tortuguita, who used they/them pronouns. Although they hated leaving the forest, they would regularly stop by the house where Forrest was staying to make sure she wasnt feeling left behind.

They took me and two friends to get Vietnamese and Mexican food and just get really full, Forrest remembered. We went to this drive-in movie theater and watched a really shitty horror movie. It was a Monday.

That Wednesday, state troopers entered the forest. According to the records obtained by Rolling Stone, they approached Tortuguitas tent believing that domestic-terror suspects were present on the property and known to be armed and extremely violent.

This article is co-published with Drilled, with support from the Fund for Investigative Journalism, and is part of its multimedia investigation into the effort to criminalize environmental and climate protests.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Clark County has been ordered to pay an additional $1.3 million in legal fees to three Latino employees who sued the public works department for discrimination.

During the court case in June, Elias Pena, Isaiah Hutson and Ray Alanis accused non-Latino colleagues at the agency of making racist comments during their time working for the roads division starting in 2017.

Landslide shuts down Amtrak between Seattle, Portland

The Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, which filed the lawsuit along with a Seattle law firm, alleged that one department supervisor used racial slurs when saying that Clark County had been ruined by the Latino community.

According to MALDEF, other county workers compared Latinos to a cancer that needs to be cut out. The organization also said all Latino employees in the Public Works department were assigned to the same road crew at one point when their colleagues would refer to them as the brown crew and the landscaping crew who work for their white masters.

Attorneys reported that Pena, Hutson and Alanis complained to the Human Resources department about racism in the workplace, but they were ignored.

6-year-old boy killed in Northeast Portland dog mauling incident

In June, a federal jury dismissed the plaintiffs discrimination claims under Title VIII  but they found Clark County liable for the hostile work environment the three employees faced under Washington states anti-discrimination laws.

The plaintiffs were initially awarded $200,000 each in the case, but now, a federal judge has ordered the county to cover a portion of their legal fees as well.

On Dec. 1, U.S. District Judge David Estudillo ordered the county to pay Pena, Hutson and Alanis more than $1.3 million total in attorney fees and nearly $118,000 in non-taxable costs related to the case.

Atmospheric River causes major flooding in Washington, minor flooding in Oregon

Plaintiffs counsel took a risk in taking on this case, the outcome of which hinged in large part on whether the jury believed their clients over the numerous witnesses presented by Defendant, Estudillo wrote. The fact that the jury ultimately found for Plaintiffs reflects a significant degree of success on the part of Plaintiffs attorneys.

In a statement to KOIN 6, a Clark County spokesperson said, On Friday, the court issued orders awarding attorney fees and costs to Plaintiffs as prevailing parties on one of six discrimination claims they filed against the county. In light of the Plaintiffs verdict on the Washington Law Against Discrimination claim at trial, which provides for such fee-shifting, these were orders the parties had been waiting for the court to rule on since July.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
FALL RIVER  Former Fall River police officer Bryan Custadio, facing three criminal domestic violence cases involving two separate domestic partners, pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to 14 months in the Bristol County House of Corrections.

In one case, Custadio was accused of assaulting a family member at their home while the former city patrol officer was on duty, in uniform and driving a marked police car in November 2021.

Custadio was before Bristol County District Court Judge Thomas Barrett on Nov. 30 and pleaded to the first two cases; one of which was filed in November 2021 and another in February 2022 for three alleged domestic assaults against a family member.

One case gets continuance without cause

In the latter case, according to the Bristol County District Attorney's office and court documents, Custadio pled guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon, two counts of strangulation and threats and assault on a family member.

The Bristol County District Attorneys office recommended Custadio be sentenced to 2  years in the House of Corrections with 18 to serve. However, Barrett at the recommendation of the defense, imposed a continuance without a finding for 2  years.

Custadio terminated from police force Another Fall River police officer is fired. This is the third cop firing since January.

If Custadio completes his sentencing and probationary terms, the charges will be dismissed.

In the 2021 case, Custadio pleaded guilty to three counts of assault and battery on the same family member with the sentencing from Barrett to serve 14 months in the House of Corrections.

In one of the incidents of domestic violence against his first household partner, Custadio arrived at the home while on duty and attacked the person outside the residence then forced the person into the home where a violent assault occurred.

The attack was caught on his home surveillance camera, but after police were called to the residence, Custadio deleted the images of the attack remotely, as discovered by a Massachusetts State Police investigator.

In another, Custadio was accused of strangling the victim family member and threatening to destroy property with an ax.

Excessive force Fall River police officer Nicholas Hoar arrested in connection to alleged assault

The third time Custadio pled guilty last month

After pleading not guilty in arraignments in 2021 and 2022 and released on personal recognizance, his bail was revoked, deemed a danger and ordered held without bail after he was arrested again last February for the assault on another household partner.

On Nov. 16, according to Fall River District Court records, Custadio pleaded guilty to one count of assault and battery on a family member and was sentenced to one year in jail with six months to serve.

He was also given 64 days of credit for time served after his bail revocation.

A judge in that case gave Custadio until Nov. 30 to surrender, the same day he pled guilty to the two pending domestic violence cases.

The former officer will serve his sentences concurrently.

Former cop pleds guilty in remaining cases

Custadios sentencing makes him the second former Fall River police officer who is currently incarcerated for crimes while they were on the police force.

Last week, Michael Pessoa, who has been in prison since June after he was found guilty of excessive force and civil rights violations in the first of three criminal cases against him, pleaded guilty for similar crimes in the remaining cases.

Already serving a minimum of 1  years not to exceed three years, a judge handed out the same sentence for the other two cases, also to be served concurrently.

Both men were fired from their jobs with the FRPD pending their criminal cases.

Fall River patrolman Nicholas Hoar, accused of assaulting a prisoner while in custody and currently on unpaid leave from the department, is awaiting a trial set for Jan. 29 in federal court in Boston on one count of deprivation of rights under color of law resulting in bodily injury and two counts of false reports.

This article originally appeared on The Herald News: Former cop Bryan Custadio accused of domestic abuse gets 14 months
CARROLL COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN)  A joint investigation by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations (TBI) Drug Investigation Division and the Huntingdon Police Department led to five arrests, as well as the seizure of drugs and drug paraphernalia.

The TBI said agents and investigators have worked since July to target illicit drug activity in Huntingdon. Because of the evidence gathered during the investigation, the agency obtained a search warrant for a home in the 5100 block of Purdy Road.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee

On Wednesday, Dec. 6, authorities said TBI special agents joined members of the Huntingdon Police Department, the 24th Judicial Drug Task Force, the Carroll County Sheriffs Office, the Big Sandy Police Department, and the Henderson County Sheriffs Office to execute the search warrant. As a result, law enforcement discovered methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

According to officials, the following five adults, who were inside the home when the search was conducted, were arrested and booked into the Carroll County Jail:

Lee E. Christy, 56, of Hickman County: Bond of $7,500 for possession of Schedule II drug (meth) and possession of drug paraphernalia

Lisa L. Cowens, 56, of Huntingdon: Bond of $102,500 for possession of Schedule II drug (meth) with intent to distribute and possession of drug paraphernalia

Chayo E. Espinoza, 46, of Lebanon: Bond of $105,000 for possession of Schedule II drug (meth) with intent to distribute, possession of Schedule VI drug (marijuana), and Possession of drug paraphernalia

Steven A. Gilbert, 47, of Lexington: Bond of $105,000 for possession of Schedule II drug (meth) with intent to distribute, possession of Schedule VI drug (marijuana), and possession of drug paraphernalia

Bill G. Smith, 67, of Lexington: Bond of $7,500 for possession of Schedule II drug (meth) and possession of drug paraphernalia

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
A Richland 2 school board member will run for the state Senate seat currently held by Mia McLeod, setting up a potential matchup between the pair nearly five years after they were allegedly involved in a confrontation after a school board meeting.

Monica Elkins announced in mid-November that she will run as a Democrat for South Carolina Senate District 22. A retired school teacher and administrator from Columbia, Elkins has served on the Richland 2 school board since 2012.

People have welcomed me with loving arms, financial support and prayers, Elkins said. I am born and raised in South Carolina, in Columbia, this is my home. I want whats best for everyone, regardless of party.

McLeod, one of the five sister senators fighting against a near-total abortion ban in the state last year, left the S.C. Democratic Party in January. It was a surprising twist to the start of the 2023 Legislative session after McLeods unsuccessful campaign for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination in 2022. In an email to supporters, McLeod said she left the party, in part, because it no longer espoused the values she and her constituents cared about.

As of Wednesday afternoon, McLeod is still listed as an Independent on the State House website.

McLeod did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It is not clear if shell seek reelection  during a radio talk show in January, McLeod said she was undecided as to whether shed pursue another term.

If McLeod decides to run again, it wont be their first face-off.

Elkins, known as Monica Elkins-Johnson at the time, was arrested in January 2019 after an altercation following a school board meeting when she allegedly shoved McLeods sister.

The Richland County Sheriffs Department charged her with disorderly conduct.

McLeod and her sister Erica Davis were leaving the meeting when they saw Elkins and Stacy McKie, husband of former Richland 2 board Amelia McKie, arguing in the hallway, according to police reports. Elkins called him a motherf----- and threatened to kill him, a report said.

She then aggressively came towards McLeod, and Davis stepped in between them, according to the police report. Elkins then allegedly pushed Davis.

The sheriffs department called Elkins disorderly and boisterous.

(She) did attack several individuals and said B----, I asked you to get the f--- out of my face before I beat your ass, the department said in a statement.

Following the incident, Elkins was restrained by Richland 2 security, according to reports. She later turned herself into police and was released from Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center on a $237.50 personal recognizance bond, on the condition she have no contact with McLeod, McKie or Davis, court records showed. Nobody else was charged following the incident.

Elkins attorney denied she shoved anybody.

Shes not a danger to the community. She has no prior history, attorney Justin Kata of the Giese Law Firm told The State in 2019. Whats been reported in the newspaper and whats written in the warrant is that she attacked people at a school board meeting. We adamantly deny she attacked anybody.

Elkins case was later diverted to pre-trial intervention, according to court records, a program for first-time offenders.

Elkins declined to comment on the 2019 incident.

I am running a campaign focused on positivity, Elkins said.

If elected, she wants to focus on economic development, military veterans issues and especially education. Teacher pay, school safety and smaller classes would be priorities, she said. And shell remain involved in Richland 2.

In 2016, Elkins unsuccessfully ran for the state House. She was defeated by Rep. Ivory Thigpen for the District 79 seat in the Democratic primary. Now, she is eyeing the District 22 Senate seat, which represents northern Richland County, including portions of Columbia, Forest Acres and Blythewood.

Elkins is adament that a Democrat belongs in the seat.
Former SNP leadership candidate Kate Forbes has urged Humza Yousaf to rip up the power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens - ROBERT PERRY/PA

Kate Forbes has warned Humza Yousaf that he must scrap the SNPs power-sharing deal with Scottish Greens or face a voter backlash against their hard-Left environmental and tax policies.

Ms Forbes, who narrowly lost out to Mr Yousaf in this years SNP leadership contest, urged the First Minister to rip up the coalition accord with the Greens and rule at Holyrood as a minority government.

The former Scottish finance secretary said nearly all the issues that have led to the SNP haemorrhaging public support in the opinion polls over the past year could be traced to policies found in the Bute House Agreement with the Greens.

In an interview with the New Statesman, she warned Mr Yousaf that the Greens appear to want to over-regulate rural communities out of existence and hike taxes to a rate that will ultimately reduce public revenue.

Ms Forbes argued their influence in the Scottish Government was out of proportion with the eight MSPs they have at Holyrood and unfortunately, right now, a lot of Green policies do not chime with the publics priorities during a cost of living crisis.

The Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch MSP lamented that the SNP no longer appealed to the fisherman in Buchan as well as the working mum in Glasgow as she urged Mr Yousaf to get back to that approach.

Refusing to rule out standing again for the party leadership, she said she felt the weight of expectation from many quarters in the country not to just pack in my political career.

Embarrassing about-turns

Mr Yousaf insisted in August that the deal with Greens would continue despite a series of controversies and embarrassing about-turns over environmental policies pursued by his administration. They also do not support using economic growth as a benchmark of success.

He only beat Ms Forbes in the SNP leadership contest by 52 per cent to 48 per cent in the second round of voting, despite the party hierarchy weighing in behind him and controversy over her religious views.

She later said he should check in with SNP members at the partys October conference in Aberdeen about whether they wanted the Bute House Agreement to continue.

However, she went much further in her New Statesman interview, warning that the SNP had lost momentum, and bold change was necessary before next years general election and the 2026 Holyrood contest.

She argued the SNP had lost the perception of being a broad movement moving together towards something bigger, with members leaving the party, and policies having to be ditched or overhauled.

Ms Forbes said the Bute House Agreement should be repealed and the SNP should operate again as a one-party minority government, as previously happened under both Alex Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon.

We were elected on a SNP manifesto not a Green Party manifesto or the Bute House Agreement, she said.

Lost us support

Nearly all the issues that have lost us support in the last year are found in the Bute House Agreement and not in the SNP manifesto.

Ms Forbes said the SNP had consistently won elections in Scotland because voters felt we were on their side, with support stretching across the country when the people trust us to focus more on their needs than on empty ideology.

In contrast, she said the Greens have a handful of politicians with their own ideological convictions. She argued that their influence should be proportional to the publics support for their policies.

Lorna Slater, one of the two Green ministers in Mr Yousafs government, oversaw the shambolic attempt to set up a deposit return scheme for drinks containers in Scotland, which later collapsed at a cost of millions of pounds.

SNP and Green ministers were then forced to ditch their plans to ban fishing in swathes of Scotlands seas following uproar from coastal communities and the seafood sector.

The Greens are also enthusiastic supporters of increasing taxes on wealthier Scots and Nicola Sturgeons self-ID gender reforms.

A Scottish Greens spokesman said: Kate Forbes lost the leadership contest for her party which, some months later, continues to be a considerable source of relief for all those who, like the majority of SNP members and ourselves, believe in a progressive, inclusive form of politics working on behalf of everyone in Scotland.

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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A woman with a history of prostitution-related arrests in Las Vegas is facing new charges for allegedly stealing a Chinese tourists suitcase from his hotel room when he was asleep, according to Las Vegas Metropolitan police documents.

According to Arreanna Ubandos arrest warrant, the crime took place at the Westin Hotel and Spa, just east of the Strip on the morning of Aug. 7. Police were called to the hotel to investigate a possible trick roll involving a guest and two women. Trick roll is slang for when a prostitute allegedly steals money from a customer.

With the use of an interpreter, a detective interviewed a man who said when he awoke in his hotel room around 11 a.m., he discovered his expensive silver suitcase which contained his credit cards, identification, Balenciaga slipper shoes, $50K diamond-encrusted Hublot watch, clothes and cash was gone. The estimated value of the items was determined to be $64,000.

The victim told police he met the two women around 5 a.m. when he accidentally bumped into one of them at Caesars Palace, felt bad, and invited them to have drinks in his hotel room at the Westin. He took a picture of the two women, which he later shared with police. The second woman has yet to be identified, documents said.

Detectives tracked down surveillance video which showed the women after they left the hotel, walking along Flamingo Road with the suitcase. It also showed them getting into a cab. Video also captured images of Ubando getting into a vehicle in a parking garage which was identified as belonging to her.

Ubando faces the following charges:

Grand larceny, value $25K but less than $100K

Residential burglary, first offense

Prostitute engages in prostitution or solicitation

Unbando was released on bail and her case is due for a status check on Jan. 9, 2024.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
The former boss of Abercrombie & Fitch has filed a lawsuit against the apparel retailer for allegedly refusing to cover his legal fees after he was accused of running a sex trafficking operation for two decades.

Mike Jeffries, the ex-chief executive who stepped down in 2014, filed a lawsuit in Delaware, stating that the company was ignoring his right to have his fees covered that he'd have to incur while defending himself against a class action suit filed in October.

David Bradberry, a former model for Abercrombie & Fitch, sued the fashion retailer alleging it allowed Mr Jeffries to run a sex-trafficking organization during his 22-year tenure.

The lawsuit was filed following a BBC investigation that found that Mr Jeffries and his British partner, Matthew Smith, allegedly exploited young adult men for sex at events hosted by them in London, New York, and Marrakesh.

The suit named Abercrombie, Mr Jeffries, Mr Smith, and Jeffries's Ohio-based company Jeffries Family Office as defendants.

It accused Mr Jeffries of exploiting his position to ensnare more than 100 male victims with free clothes and gift cards, and false promises about modeling opportunities, according to the Delaware complaint.

Mr Jeffries made an initial demand to the company to cover his legal fees but the request was rejected and a second plea was ignored, according to the court filings.

The complaint said the company was required by contract to cover any claims against Mr Jeffries that are based upon and arise out of his position as an officer, which include any threatened, asserted, pending or completed claim "whether civil, criminal, administrative" or other.

According to the filings, the contract also required the brand to either reimburse or provide advance payment to Mr Jeffries at his request.

Abercrombie & Fitch in a statement in October said: "For close to a decade,aa new executive leadership team and refreshed board of directorsa have successfully transformed our brands and culture into the values-driven organization we are today."

"We have zero tolerance for abuse, harassment or discrimination of any kind." The company said it did not comment on pending litigations.

Mr Jeffries and Mr Smith were contacted by the BBC several times by letter, email and phone over several weeks for comment on a detailed list of the allegations against them but did not respond. The couple could not immediately be reached by The Independent.
Former Erie County Democratic Party Chairman Jim Wertz made it official Tuesday, announcing that he'll seek his party's nomination for the 49th Senate District seat currently held by two-term Republican incumbent Dan Laughlin.

The 44-year-old addressed supporters at Ember + Forge, a coffee shop at Fourth and State streets in the city where, seven years ago, Wertz jumped into local politics by signing on as chairman to a mayoral campaign.

Jim Wertz, the former chairman of the Erie County Democratic Party, announced Dec. 5 that he will run for the 49th District Senate seat currently held by Republican Sen. Dan Laughlin.

Wertz mentioned his foray into politics in his opening remarks and how the "conversation" that started in 2016  and that would later lead to being named party chairman in 2018  had reached the pivotal moment.

"We are all invested in the future of Erie," he said. "But today we continue the conversation that started so long ago, somewhat differently. Because from this day on I am in this conversation as your candidate for Pennsylvania state senate."

On the issues

Wertz said health care is a right, not a privilege, that he supports a constitutional amendment protecting abortion rights for Pennsylvanians, and that children deserve equal opportunities to health care, child care, pre-kindergarten and public school education.

Schools, he said, should be "fairly and fully" funded and that learning and education is "our greatest asset."

He spoke about fighting for better jobs and better wages, and protecting the rights of workers to form and join a union and bargain collectively for fair contracts.

"The union is not the enemy of the profits but they are the people who produce them," he said.

Exploring 'political opportunities': Wertz to square off with Laughlin in 2024 election

Opposition in primary?

It's too early to know if Wertz or Laughlin will face primary challengers. With the primary currently slated for April 23 (lawmakers want to move it up so Pennsylvania plays a more critical role in the presidential primaries), candidates have until mid-February to file nominating petitions to get on the ballot.

Wertz on Tuesday did not mention Laughlin by name. And on Wednesday, Laughlin declined to comment on Wertz's announcement.

Laughlin and Wertz, along with the Erie Reader, have been battling in court over an opinion piece Wertz wrote about Laughlin, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly and the 2020 election. Laughlin says Wertz and the Reader defamed him and is seeking $1 million in damages from both. Wertz and the Reader have defended the piece, saying it was factual and well within their rights to publish.

Key race

Republicans hold a 28-22 advantage in the state Senate and Democrats are eager to either win the majority or tighten the gap. The party is also trying to retain its one-seat control in the House. The 49th District Senate seat is critical for Democrats because the demographics of the district are split.

The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee has named Pennsylvania one of its top targets for 2024, both legislatively and electorally. It plans to spend millions in the state next year. It made a small, $30,000 investment Wednesday into House races.

Wertz: Local politics becoming 'savage,' campaigns must focus on values, policy instead

Matthew Rink can be reached at mrink@timesnews.com.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Wertz, former party boss, hopes to challenge Laughlin for PA Senate
Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush called on Wednesday for older Americans to pass the political torch to a new generation, saying that its up to a new cohort of leaders to change the countrys toxic political climate.

As a 70-year-old person, Im part of the problem, Bush said at a luncheon at Miamis Jungle Island hosted by the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce. Its time for my generation to get off the stage politically.

Bush, who served eight years as Florida governor before launching an ill-fated bid for the Republican Partys 2016 presidential nomination, did not point fingers at any specific political figure or candidate in his remarks. He said that members of both parties deserved blame for playing into ideological extremes and using hyperbolic rhetoric.

The people that say the most outrageous things get more followers on Twitter, he said, referring to the social media site now known as X. They dont want to serve, they dont want to solve problems. Theyre there because they want to be a Kim Kardashian political figure.

Asked by one attendee about the politics of Floridas current governor  Republican Ron DeSantis  Bush declined to address that part of the question and advised that young people get involved in public life on their own.

DeSantis, 45, has cultivated a reputation for years as a hardline conservative who has waged political and policy wars against what he describes as liberal or leftist ideology in education, business and government. In doing so, hes earned criticism from Democrats and some Republicans who say he is pushing the GOP toward a right-wing ideological extreme.

Bush, whos been out of elected office for more than 15 years and is counted among the GOPs moderates, has praised DeSantis in the past. He told Fox News earlier this year that the Florida governor could help lead a generational change in the nations politics, though he has not endorsed DeSantis presidential campaign.

On Wednesday, Bush spoke about politics only in broad terms. He decried that some Americans had come to rely too heavily on alternative-style facts and had become too comfortable having our views validated. He also called on a new generation of Americans to restore the civility of American politics, but said that that could only happen if voters stop rewarding politicians who play to their parties and voters most extreme demands.

READ MORE: DeSantis wants health care plan that would supersede Obamacare. What does that mean?

We need to reward the politicians that have the courage to go against their base based on principle, Bush said.

Bushs comments on Wednesday echoed those of other aging political figures, like Republican U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah, who have recently expressed a desire to step back from politics in order to pave the way for younger generations of Americans to take power.

The timing of Bushs remarks was also significant, coming as the country readies for the 2024 presidential election. President Joe Biden, 81, is seeking reelection to a second term in the White House, while former President Donald Trump, 77, appears to be the GOPs most-likely pick to challenge him.

DeSantis, whos also seeking the Republican Partys presidential nod, is running well behind Trump in virtually every state and national poll and is competing vigorously against former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley for the second-place spot in the primary.

For many, Trump has come to symbolize the kind of partisan extreme that has taken hold in the U.S. Bush, who feuded with Trump himself during his 2016 presidential run, said on Wednesday that it was time for Americans on both sides of the political aisle to stand up against the bullies on your team.

We have two tribes, red and blue, he said. If youre on the blue team and someone says something completely outrageous, stand up and say, no youre wrong. And if youre on the red team, do the exact same thing.
Kevin McCarthy will retire from US Congress at the end of this month.

Related: A bully: McCarthy accused of shoving Republican who helped oust him

I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways, the former House speaker said, in a column for the Wall Street Journal. I know my work is only getting started.

McCarthy, 58 and from California, was a longtime member of House Republican leadership. He became speaker in January  but only after enduring 15 votes for the role as the far right of his own party held him hostage.

The gavel secured, he stayed loyal to Donald Trump, the former president who faces 91 criminal charges and assorted civil threats but still dominates his party, the clear frontrunner for the Republican presidential nomination next year.

McCarthy backed Trump despite his incitement of the January 6 attack on Congress, joining 146 other congressional Republicans in voting to object to results in key states even after the mob breached the walls of the Capitol. Memorably, Trump called McCarthy My Kevin.

Nonetheless, in October, after McCarthy leant on Democratic support to keep the federal government funded and open, the same far-right, pro-Trump faction made him the first speaker ever ejected by his own party.

In his Journal column, McCarthy heralded what he said were his achievements in office  without mentioning that Democratic control of the Senate and White House rendered most of them moot  and claimed that No matter the odds, or personal cost, we did the right thing.

That may seem out of fashion in Washington these days, but delivering results for the American people is still celebrated across the country, McCarthy wrote. It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways. I know my work is only getting started.

He repeated such claims in a video statement released on social media.

McCarthy was tormented and ultimately ejected by the right of his party, in part because he never enjoyed a majority strong enough to reduce their power.

His retirement, on the heels of the expulsion last week of the Republican George Santos, will reduce the partys majority still further.

After McCarthy steps down, Mike Johnson, the hard-right Louisianan who became speaker after three other candidates failed to attract enough support, will only be able to lose three votes before being unable to operate without Democratic support.

Under California law the Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, has 140 days in which to conduct a special election.

In October, attempting to project defiance after his brutal defenestration by his own party, McCarthy told supporters he would not quit the fight.

Im not resigning, he said. I got a lot more work to do.

But months of tension in the corridors of power  including an alleged physical attack on Tim Burchett, a Republican rightwinger from Tennessee  only stoked predictions that McCarthy would soon quit.

On Saturday, Eric Swalwell, a California Democrat and frequent McCarthy antagonist, predicted that with Santos gone  the next GOP member to leave Congress will be [Kevin] McCarthy.

No way he stays. A guy who kidney punches his colleagues from behind is too afraid to serve out a full term with them, he said. I bet hes gone by end of year.

After McCarthys resignation came to pass, critics were quick to pass judgment on a congressional career that began in 2007, with McCarthy hailed as a Republican Young Gun, and saw the prodigious fundraiser and glad-hander rise to be whip, majority leader and speaker.

Mike Madrid, a Republican consultant from California, said: Kevin McCarthys story is an epic tragedy about the pursuit of power, the compromise of values and how power reveals character. He could have been remembered as a great statesman who did the right thing at a critical moment, but he will go down as the weakest speaker in history.

Joe Walsh, a former rightwing congressman now an anti-Trump commentator, said: I served in Congress with Kevin McCarthy. He has no core. Hes a hollow man. His only reason for being is the pursuit of power, his only guide is his personal ambition. And in the end, this was his undoing.
A former Johnson County sheriffs deputy lost his law enforcement license after he was accused of lying in sworn testimony during a driving under the influence case, state records show.

Peter Hoff worked for the Johnson County Sheriffs Office from August 2017 to October 2018, and again from April 2019 to November 2022. The Kansas Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training (CPOST), the state agency responsible for issuing, suspending and revoking licenses, investigated after Hoff was fired from the Johnson County Sheriffs Office for his conduct.

According to CPOST records, Hoff told the Johnson County assistant district attorney he reviewed body camera footage before a hearing for a DUI case. But his testimony was inconsistent with what body camera footage showed.

After the hearing, the ADA wrote in an email to her supervisor that she believed Hoff lied about reviewing the body camera footage and made up facts during his testimony that he thought might be helpful to the case.

If he had reviewed his body cam footage prior to court, then he straight up just made up facts on the stand since his testimony did not match his footage nor his report, her email read.

He then responded to almost every question Defense asked on cross with I dont remember and became increasingly smart-alecky as the cross went on.

Pro Tempore Judge Marc Berry found Hoff not to be credible and granted the defenses motion to suppress all evidence. The case was dismissed because of Hoffs testimony.

After the case was dismissed, the Johnson County Sheriffs Office checked Hoffs access history for the body camera footage and found he had last reviewed it Aug. 12, 2021, more than a year before the suppression hearing.

In the investigation, Hoff was adamant that he reviewed the body camera footage, and suggested he could have reviewed the wrong footage by mistake in preparation for the hearing. After looking into this claim, the Johnson County Sheriffs Office found Hoff viewed a separate body camera video for a marijuana possession charge that took place in 2022.

Johnson County concluded Hoff could not have mistakenly reviewed the wrong footage in preparation for the suppression hearing.

Hoff was given the option to resign or be terminated. At that time, he chose to be terminated.

After he was fired, Hoff unsuccessfully appealed to the Johnson County Sheriff, and made an appeal to the Johnson County Civil Service Board. But before his hearing with the Board, he submitted a resignation. Johnson County accepted his resignation in place of a termination after Hoff decided not to appeal to the Civil Service Board.

Hoff told CPOST investigators that the Johnson County Sheriffs Office approached him with a deal to walk away clean if he resigned.

CPOST said the deal Hoff mentioned was false information because the Johnson County investigation found Hoff had violated department policies. In a statutorily mandated report to CPOST regarding Hoffs separation, the Sheriffs Office wrote Hoff had violated policies under a provision for truthfulness and unbecoming conduct.

Hoffs license was revoked by the commission on Nov. 13.
The U.S. is bringing its first charges of war crimes against four Russian military personnel for alleged atrocities committed against an American citizen in Ukraine during Moscows full-scale invasion of the country.

Attorney General Merrick Garland announced the charges Wednesday, unsealing an indictment in the Eastern District of Virginia.

Congress passed the U.S. war crimes statute nearly 30 years ago, to give us jurisdiction to prosecute war crimes committed against American citizens abroad, Garland said at a press conference.

In an indictment returned yesterday in the Eastern District of Virginia, we have charged four Russia-affiliated military personnel with war crimes against an American citizen living in Ukraine, Garland added. The charges include conspiracy to commit war crimes, including war crimes outlawed by the international community after World War II, unlawful confinement, torture, and inhuman treatment.

Garland also said that while these are the first war crimes charges brought by the U.S. government, more are expected.

I cant get into too many details. But this is our first, and you should expect more, he said.

The Biden administration and Congress have said that U.S. support for Ukraine in its defensive war against Russia includes pursuing justice for war crime victims. That effort is spread out against multiple venues, including the pursuit of war crimes charges in Ukrainian courts and on the international stage.

The International Criminal Court in March issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russias commissioner for childrens rights over allegations of war crimes surrounding the unlawful deportation of children from Ukraine to Russia.

And Ukraines top prosecutor, Andriy Kostin, told The Hill in January that Kyiv viewed U.S. support in prosecuting Russia for war crimes as important as military assistance for weapons on the battlefield.

The indictment unsealed Wednesday lays out charges that a commanding officer of military units in the Russian Armed Forces, Suren Seiranovich Mkrtchyan, 45, directed soldiers under his command to abduct the unidentified American victim from his home in April 2022 from the village of Mylove in the Kherson region of southern Ukraine.

The indictment also names Russian national Dmitry Budnik, a commanding officer, and two lower-ranking military personnel, Valerii and Nazar, though their last names are unknown.

The four Russians are alleged to have interrogated, severely beaten and tortured the American victim. They also allegedly threatened to kill the victim and conducted a mock execution.

As todays announcement makes clear, when an American citizens human rights are violated their government will spare no effort and spare no resources to bring the perpetrators to justice, said Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

Second, the evidence gathered by our agents speaks to the brutality, criminality, and depravity of Russias invasion. The Ukrainian people have had and must continue to have Americas full support against Russias unjust, unprovoked and unlawful war of aggression. We cannot allow such horrific crimes to be ignored. To do so would only increase the risk they will be repeated.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole Argentieri of the Justice Departments Criminal Division would not comment beyond the allegations in the indictment if the U.S. government was looking at charges going up the Russian chain of command and if Putin could become the subject of a federal indictment.

Federal law enforcement officials underscored the deep collaboration across agencies that was required to reach the indictment, including the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and field offices in Washington, D.C., Kyiv, Warsaw and Moscow.

Though today marks the first time the War Crimes Act of 1996 has been charged in U.S. history, this is certainly not the first time the FBI has investigated war crimes and held perpetrators accountable, said FBI Director Christopher Wray.

Cases like this one are among the most complex the FBI works but bringing them is essential to deterring crimes like these and showing would-be perpetrators that no one is above the law and that war crimes will not go unpunished.

The breakthrough by federal law enforcement to bring war crimes charges against Russian citizens raises the possibility that similar charges could be brought against members of Hamas who killed Americans and took them hostage as part of the U.S.-designated terrorist groups brutal assault against Israel on Oct. 7.

American families whose loved ones are being held by Hamas have said they have been in contact with the FBI.

Hamas murdered more than 30 Americans and kidnapped more during their terrorist attack on October 7. We are investigating those heinous crimes and we will hold those people accountable, Garland said Wednesday.

Updated at 11:34 a.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Republican U.S. presidential candidates participate in their fourth debate of the 2024 U.S. presidential campaign in Tuscaloosa

Republican U.S. presidential candidates participate in their fourth debate of the 2024 U.S. presidential campaign in Tuscaloosa

By Gram Slattery and Joseph Ax

TUSCALOOSA, Alabama (Reuters) -Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley was the subject of repeated attacks during Wednesday's Republican presidential debate, as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis sought to blunt her momentum just weeks before the party's first nominating contest in Iowa.

The two rivals were vying to emerge as the chief alternative to the absent former President Donald Trump, who has maintained a commanding lead in opinion polls ahead of Iowa's Jan. 15 contest.

The debate, which also included tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, saw a flurry of insults interspersed with discussions of the Ukraine war, the Israel-Hamas conflict and the U.S. southern border.

But aside from Christie, who has put criticisms of Trump at the center of his campaign, none of the candidates on stage in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, appeared willing to go after the front-runner directly, a reflection of Trump's continued popularity among the Republican base.

Asked about Trump's comments at a Fox News town hall on Tuesday that he would not be a dictator during a second term, except on "day one," Christie called him "an angry, bitter man" intent on retribution and repeatedly demanded DeSantis say whether he believes Trump is fit for office.

DeSantis deflected several times, instead referring to the 77-year-old Trump's age and arguing the presidency is better suited for someone younger.

Haley also offered only muted criticism, saying Trump represented "chaos" and blaming him for adding billions of dollars to the national debt.

Instead, DeSantis and Ramaswamy spent most of their time taking shots at Haley, who has risen in polls and drawn increased interest from donors on the strength of her previous debate performances.

"She caves anytime the left comes after her, anytime the media comes after her," DeSantis said of Haley during the first answer of the evening, as he sought to explain why voters should back him despite Trump's dominant position.

DeSantis boasted about legislation he passed in Florida banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender youth and accused Haley of opposing the law, an assertion Haley denied.

"He continues to lie about my record," she said.

TRUMP ABSENT AGAIN

The debate, which aired on the young cable news network NewsNation and the CW network, featured the smallest field thus far, as the Republican National Committee has raised the polling and donor requirements for each event.

As with the first three debates, the former president - leading by more than 40 percentage points in most opinion polls - skipped Wednesday's event, instead attending a fundraiser in his home state of Florida.

His campaign released a new advertisement during the debate portraying Biden as weak, signaling he is focused on the general election and not his Republican rivals.

Trump's absence deprived them of an opportunity to confront him face to face and again sent the message he deems his challengers unworthy of his attention.

Haley has cut into DeSantis' lead in national polls while building a substantial edge in New Hampshire and her home state of South Carolina - crucial states because they are among the first to pick a nominee.

The two are effectively tied in Iowa.

With no additional debates currently scheduled, Wednesday's televised clash could be the last chance for Haley or DeSantis to land an enduring blow in front of a national audience.

Ramaswamy, who has aligned himself closely with Trump, teamed up with DeSantis to go after Haley, attacking her as "corrupt" and "fascist" for making money on speeches and serving on the board of Boeing.

"I love all the attention, fellas," she said, before defending her work with Boeing and suggesting her rivals were jealous she had the backing of major donors.

Ramaswamy, a staunch isolationist, was alone in arguing the U.S. should end its support for Ukraine against Russia. He took aim at Haley, who has emphasized her foreign policy credentials, saying that experience "is not the same as wisdom."

In response, Christie defended Haley, telling Ramaswamy he was coming across as "the most obnoxious blowhard in America."

Meanwhile, Haley, who called Ramaswamy "scum" at the last debate, said it was "not worth my time to respond" after he again called her corrupt.

Ramaswamy also advanced a number of baseless conspiracy theories, claiming the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol by Trump supporters was an "inside job" and that the 2020 election was stolen.

(Reporting by Gram Slattery; Additional reporting by Costas Pitas, Eric Beech and Caitlin Webber; Writing by Joseph Ax; Editing by Ross Colvin and Daniel Wallis)
Several leaders of prestigious American colleges joined Dr. Claudine Gay on Tuesday as she defended herself during a House hearing against claims that she allowed antisemitism to run rampant at Harvard during the Israel-Hamas war.

Fox News contributor Tammy Bruce didnt hide her disdain for Harvard Universitys first Black presidents testimony regarding the rise of antisemitism on college campuses.

On Tuesday, Bruce blasted Dr. Claudine Gay, referring to her as that Black woman in power and alleging she doesnt care about Jewish students because theyre white, according to The Daily Beast.

It is heartbreaking to see a woman in such a position of power abandon that power. She sounds like a robot, said Bruce. She refuses to answer questions. Everything is at stake. The future of those young people is at stake. This nations at stake.

Harvard President Claudine Gay speaks during a hearing of the House Committee on Education on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, in Washington. (Photo by Mark Schiefelbein, AP)

Several leaders of prestigious American colleges joined Gay as she defended herself during the tense House Committee of Education hearing on Tuesday against claims that she allowed antisemitism to run wild at Harvard during the Israel-Hamas war.

Fox News anchor Harris Faulkner aired live coverage of Gays testimony, which included her being grilled on Harvards code of conduct by Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY), who asked whether students who chanted from the river to the sea  which the congresswoman likened to the genocide of Jews  would be disciplined or expelled.

She stated that she has attempted to tackle hate while preserving free expression, calling it a challenging task she has not always gotten right.

A recent Anti-Defamation League poll found that 73% of Jewish college students had experienced or witnessed some form of antisemitism since the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year alone.

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It also indicated that just 39% of Jewish students now feel comfortable with others on campus knowing they are Jewish, compared to 64% before the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attacks.

As Ive said, that type of hateful, reckless, offensive speech is personally abhorrent to me, Gay said. When speech crosses into conduct that violates our policies, including policies against bullying, harassment, or intimidation, we take action. And we have robust disciplinary processes that allow us to hold individuals accountable.

While airing live coverage, Faulkner turned to Bruce to comment on Gays remarks, sparking the conservative pundits rant against the Harvard official.

Bruce accused Gay of declining to denounce genuine hate speech in her testimony despite the lefts insistence that speech is violence, questioning whether the president was waiting on genocide to happen first.

She appeared to imply that Gay doesnt care about antisemitism on campus since it primarily affects white students, asserting that the president would be swift to act if there were anti-Black racism at Harvard.

So this is what the problem is, is that this isnt just some slogan or chant, Bruce said, The Daily Beast reported. We would be hearing something very different if it was people in robes, in [Ku Klux] Klan robes, shouting Lynch certain people, using certain words. It would be inherently and deeply unacceptable.

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The post Fox News host says Harvards Black president fails to address campus antisemitism appeared first on TheGrio.
Freed Israeli hostages told top Israeli officials on Tuesday that they feared being killed by Israeli airstrikes while they were held by Hamas militants in Gaza. They also recounted brutality in Hamas captivity, including being beaten, humiliated, malnourished and kept under poor medical conditions.

Details from the meeting were reported in Israeli news outlets, including The Times of Israel, Haaretz,Ynet and public broadcaster Kan, the latter two of which cited leaked audio recordings of the meeting. An Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson declined HuffPosts request for comment on the reports. CNN reported on the meeting Wednesday and noted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office declined to comment on the leaked recordings.

One family representative told Haaretz that the meeting was turbulent and highly tense, and several reports indicated that the former hostages berated the Israeli officials for not prioritizing the safe release of the remaining hostages. Kan reported that some former hostages left in the middle of the discussion, and The Times of Israel, citing a recording published by other media outlets, said that in recordings, some attendees could be heard screaming at the prime minister to resign.

Every day in captivity was extremely challenging. We were in tunnels, terrified that it would not be Hamas, but Israel, that would kill us, and then they would say Hamas killed you, said one unnamed freed hostage from Kibbutz Nir Oz, according to Ynet. So, I strongly urge that the prisoner exchange begins as soon as possible and everyone needs to return home. There should be no hierarchy. Everyone is equally important.

Another former hostage quoted in the Ynet report  who was freed with her children but whose husband remains in captivity  referred to reports that Israel was considering flooding tunnels in Gaza with seawater, which she argued could harm her husband.

We felt as though no one was doing anything for us. The reality is that I was in a hideout that was bombed and we became wounded refugees. This doesnt even include the helicopter that fired at us on our way to Gaza. You claim there is intelligence, but the reality is that we were being bombed, said the former hostage, who was also unnamed in the report. My husband was separated from us three days before we returned to Israel and was taken to the tunnels. And youre talking about flooding the tunnels with seawater? You are bombing tunnel routes exactly where they are located. My daughters ask me where their father is, and I have to tell them that the bad guys still dont want to release him.

Aviva Siegel, another former hostage, said in the meeting that airstrikes exploded above us and the Hamas operatives just kept sleeping. Your airstrikes dont bother them, The Times of Israel reported. The Times, citing Israels Channel 12 news station, reported Siegel told Netanyahu that her husband, still captive in Gaza, is not well, they broke his ribs and he can barely sit or eat. I didnt sleep, I didnt eat there because I couldnt. We kept moving from place to place. I thought I would be blown up every second.

Netanyahu reportedly told the former hostages and their family members that Israels aim was to bring back all hostages and that the Israeli militarys ground invasion of Gaza had put pressure on Hamas which led to last months hostage exchange deal.

If theres an opportunity to bring everyone out at once, do you think anyone here would disagree? he said, according to Ynet. Netanyahu reportedly said the former hostages accounts of the ordeals you endured with our bombings and military operations would influence operational considerations.

More than 1,200 people were killed in Israel on Oct. 7 when Hamas militants launched a surprise attack, and more than 240 others were taken captive that day and held in Gaza, according to Israeli officials. In retaliation, the Israeli military has carried out airstrikes and a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip that have so far killed more than 16,000 people, according to Palestinian health officials.

Prominent Israelis and Americans, including President Joe Biden, have cast doubt over the Palestinian death toll figures, even though Gazan health officials claims have generally been considered accurate. On Monday, an unnamed Israeli army official told The Associated Press that at least 15,000 Palestinians had in fact been killed in Gaza and that the IDF believed more than 5,000 of those were Hamas militants. A spokesperson for the Gaza Health Ministry told the AP that, of 15,899 people killed in Gaza from Oct. 7 to the date of the report, 70% were women and children.

Owat Suriyasri, a Thai hostage who was freed from Hamas, holds the hand of his wife on his arrival Monday at an airport in Thailand. Twenty-three Thai hostages kidnapped by Hamas on Oct. 7 have been freed so far, and Thailand's foreign ministry says nine remain in captivity in Gaza.

Owat Suriyasri, a Thai hostage who was freed from Hamas, holds the hand of his wife on his arrival Monday at an airport in Thailand. Twenty-three Thai hostages kidnapped by Hamas on Oct. 7 have been freed so far, and Thailand's foreign ministry says nine remain in captivity in Gaza.

During a brief cease-fire last month, more than 100 Israeli hostages were released  including 23 Thai nationals and one Filipino  as were more than 200 Palestinians whod been held as Israeli prisoners, the majority of whom had not been convicted of a crime; thousands of Palestinians are held without charges in Israeli detention, and many of those released reported being abused in Israeli custody. Israeli authorities believe about 15 people taken hostage are dead, The Times of Israel noted.

One former hostage who attended the meeting recalled the harsh conditions for captives in Gaza, Haaretz reported.

They touch girls, and everyone knows it. I wont recount details, but we had a procedure that no one moves without someone guarding them, the woman said. Medications ran out, and they gave us the wrong drugs.

Another former hostage, a nurse named Nili Margalit, recalled severe conditions. We were in tunnels under impossible conditions: underground, lacking oxygen, in darkness, with basic food like rice or pita bread twice a day, Margalit wrote in a letter that was read at the meeting Tuesday, Haaretz reported.

Referring to elderly captives with whom she was kept, Margalit added: These people live on borrowed time. Theres a shortage of medicines. I did my best to provide the medications they needed. It was very partial. The medications ran out. They can barely function. They lie on mattresses all day long. I dont know how they manage since I left.

Another former hostage said their captors told us There is no Israel. We believed them. They made us believe there is no Israel anymore.

I left the meeting hoping the cabinet means what it says, Bashir Alziadana, whose family members include both recently released hostages and those still held captive in Gaza, told Haaretz. We asked if returning the captives is the primary goal now, and I didnt leave with a clear answer.

Its very ironic that my family in the Gaza Strip is afraid theyll die from IDF missiles, and my family in the unrecognized Bedouin village is afraid theyll die from Hamas missiles because they have no protection, Alziadana added, referring to Israels Bedouin population.

It was very difficult to hear from the hostages descriptions of what they were, and are, enduring, one unnamed representative of a family affected by the hostage crisis told Haaretz.

Its not only the abuse, suffering, and torment they undergo, but also that the IDF airstrikes jeopardize their lives. Together with Netanyahus statement that theres no proposal on the table to return everyone, its impossible. Hamas is the one orchestrating this event.

Related...
Amid years of decline in student enrollment, the Central Valleys only accredited Christian institution has failed to demonstrate fiscal responsibility and now stares bankruptcy right in the face.

Fresno is already dealing with the lasting impact of Bitwises bankruptcy: thousands of jobs lost, workers losing retirement benefits, and the Central Valley economy taking a near billion-dollar hit.

Now a higher education institution in Fresno may be facing a demise like that of Bitwise. This month, Fresno Pacific University underwent its third wave of layoffs, eliminating Jost School of Business and 16 other programs. Sadly, this is on brand for my alma mater.

While seeking support for resources to organize a new student-led organization, we were met with roadblocks that prevented even free speech. Soon after students were provided with short and censured releases from FPU that informed us some cuts were underway, but we only learned the specifics from word of mouth.

As a student on campus, I and other members of SGA warned the university to be transparent and listen to their tuition-paying alumni and faculty who pleaded for accountability.

Then-President Joseph Jones refused to speak to me, even though I was a member of the student government and a Navy veteran using my GI Bill. The Board of Trustees blocked any paperwork we routed up the chain of command.

Opinion

As the school year progressed, we came to realize these financial decisions also blindsided many laid-off faculty members who were unaware they were on the chopping block until they were served termination papers through the first and second wave of layoffs.

Now we are seeing the same events unfold, but sadly the current SGA are seemingly following a rhetoric provided to them by the school. Who on campus is left to represent the best interests of the students when beloved teachers are being cut and the board makes decisions without taking input of its alumni?

Much like Bitwise, which was set to spend $500,000 in investments from the city of Fresno, Fresno Pacific has received $5.6 million in COVID-19 relief funds from the federal government.

Fresno Pacific also received $750,000 in state grants to boost teacher training, among other financial support. Regardless, the Board of Trustees continues to allow their cutting of the schools programs and continues on with its third wave of layoffs. Unfortunately, there will be no press conference or former employees voicing their frustration at the injustice.

For Fresno Pacifics laid-off Christian leaders, your choices are simple: sign an NDA, or risk losing your severance package completely and entering unemployment with even higher financial uncertainty.

I have received numerous messages from those affected thanking me for using my voice to help bring attention to what is happening.

If Fresno Pacific declares bankruptcy, the city of Fresno and the Central Valley will be left to deal with the fallout of yet another key community institution. Surrounding college institutions will face higher student impact levels and begin to turn away even local Valley students.

The 42-acre campus of 16 buildings will lay vacant, becoming yet another crime-attracting eyesore in a low-income neighborhood.

And what about the alumni who have graduated? You will now be holding a degree from a defunct college that was shut down from financial mismanagement. I only hope future employers are willing to look the other way.

Victims of financial mismanagement cannot speak to what is happening! It is up to the alumni and the community at large to take notice and ring the alarm bells.

To our community leaders, I ask that you step in and intervene, and to the board of trustees, I ask that you resign.

Justin St. George of Fresno graduated from Fresno Pacific Universitys business school in 2022. He is a Navy veteran.
Friends and loved ones are mourning the tragic loss of a Lowell woman killed by a shark while on vacation in the Bahamas on Monday.

Royal Bahamas Police Force says 44-year-old Lauren Erickson Van Wart of Lowell was bitten by a shark while paddle boarding three-quarters of a mile from the shore of the Sandals Resort in western New Providence. She passed away from her injuries.

Neighbors are shocked and saddened by the sudden loss.

Trip of a lifetime. Its heartbreaking. It really is, said Beth Stack-Emerson. She lives just across the street in Lowell from Van Wart.

Shocking, I mean these poor people they probably looked forward to this vacation for months.

Van Wart worked in Billerica at Curriculum Associates. Their CEO also released a statement which says in part:

Our team is heartbroken and grieving the loss of a dear and trusted colleague and friend. Lauren was a beloved member of our math editorial team, and she infused her deep dedication to students and educators into every material she touched. Her commitment to excellence and outstanding work was driven by a higher purpose, focused on improving learning outcomes for all. Our Curriculum Associates community is mourning this tragedy and extends our deepest love and support to Laurens wonderful husband and all of her family. Rob Waldron, CEO of Curriculum Associates

Back in Lowell, neighbors are praying for her husband who was with her during the attack.

Oh my God terrible. I cant even imagine dont want to imagine. My heart goes out to Ernest definitely, said Stack-Emerson.

And they also offer their thoughts and prayers for Van Warts entire family.

Pray, find some strength from God to get through this. How else do you get through it? she said.

Boston 25 did reach out to Van Warts family but they declined to speak with us.

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By Sakura Murakami, John Geddie and Trevor Hunnicutt

TOKYO/WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Joe Biden and leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) countries met virtually on Wednesday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in a show of solidarity and agreed to a new ban on Russian diamonds.

Under the new measures, the countries will ban non-industrial diamonds from Russia by January and Russian diamonds sold by third countries from March, according to a joint statement released after the meeting.

Russia's Alrosa, the world's biggest diamond producing company, declined to comment.

On the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, the leaders said "more effective action" is needed to limit the displacement of mass numbers of civilians and expressed support for more pauses in the fighting to get more aid in.

"More urgent action is needed to address the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and minimize civilian casualties," they said. Israeli forces have killed at least 16,016 Palestinians since the Hamas attack on Oct. 7, which killed 1,200 people, according to Palestinian and Israeli authorities.

The leaders also planned to tighten controls on Russia's use of the international financial system and to impose more sanctions to enforce a price cap on Russian oil.

The measures came as Biden pleaded with Congress to fund his weeks-old request for billions of dollars more in Ukraine assistance, saying it was an "urgent responsibility" and would keep U.S. allies behind Ukraine. The U.S. plans to announce $175 million in additional military aid for Ukraine on Wednesday, according to a U.S. official.

During the meeting, Zelenskiy called for continued support for Ukraine.

"Russia believes that America and Europe will show weakness and will not maintain support for Ukraine at the proper level. Putin believes that the free world will not fully enforce its own sanctions," he said, according to remarks posted to the president's website.

"The free world vitally needs to maintain its consolidation, maintain interaction, maintain support for those whose freedom is being attacked."

The G7 members, comprising Japan, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy and the European Union, pledged in May to restrict exports to Russia that could fund its war effort in Ukraine.

A statement issued at the time said the restrictions would cover exports of industrial machinery, tools and technology and it would also try to limit Russian revenues from trade in metals and diamonds.

Western nations have admitted that the impact of their $60 price cap on Russian crude oil has waned one year in, and the countries have been looking at ways to strengthen implementation.

Russian President Vladimir Putin was in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday for talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that were also expected to include Ukraine.

(Reporting by John Geddie, Sakura Murakami in Tokyo, Julia Payne in Brussels, Trevor Hunnicutt, Steve Holland and Daphne Psaledakis in Washington, and Yuliia Dysa in Gdansk; Additional reporting by Kevin Liffey; Writing by Trevor Hunnicutt; Editing by Costas Pitas, Christopher Cushing and Josie Kao)
Good morning and welcome to the A.M. Alert!

NEWSOM CANCELS IN-PERSON CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING DUE TO PROTEST

In a bid to avoid an awkward and politically uncomfortable scene Wednesday evening, California Gov. Gavin Newsom has canceled the public, in-person Christmas tree lighting ceremony, in favor of a remotely held, pre-recorded event.

Newsom is going virtual to avoid a planned protest calling for an end to Israels war on Hamas that has killed thousands of Palestinian civilians.

As we continue to see protests across the country impacting the safety of events of all scales  and for the safety and security of all participating members and guests including children and families  the ceremony this year will be virtual. The program is unchanged and viewers can tune in Wednesday evening to watch this years festivities, a Newsom spokesperson said in an email to The Bee.

Palestinian rights groups slammed the governor for the decision.

Governor Newsom decided to cancel the tree lighting ceremony rather than face the public that is enraged by his shameful silence on the genocide in Gaza, said Yassar Dahbour of the Sacramento Regional Coalition for Palestinian Rights in a statement.

Another protester, Makeez Sawez of Youth for Palestine said in a statement that its upsetting to see my governor, who I have voted for and supported for many years, chose to alter his plans in such a quiet manner because he is not able to face the public. He has chosen to not be visible or available to citizens and his voters. He is too concerned having public debates with others than to address the pain, anguish, and needs of Californians.

The protesters gathered at the Capitol Tuesday afternoon, where they held a rally on the west steps.

Participants in a Sacramento Regional Coalition for Palestinian Rights rally make an appearance at Capitol Christmas tree on Tuesday. There will be a virtual tree lighting ceremony on Wednesday.

Newsom made headlines in October when he visited Israel just a few weeks after Hamas Oct. 7 attack that left 1,400 dead and an estimated 240 kidnapped. Newsom has sent medical aid to Israel and has pledged to do the same for Gaza.

The Christmas tree lighting is a tradition that dates back to the 1930s. This years lighting features the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, the Wilton Rancheria, and representatives of the Department of Developmental Services regional centers.

The virtual ceremony can be watched on YouTube beginning at 6 p.m. Wednesday.

CALIFORNIA LABOR FEDERATION TRIPLE ENDORSES IN SENATE RACE

Faced with a tough choice with three prominent Democratic candidates for California senator, the California Labor Federation on Tuesday decided to split the difference and just endorse all of them.

BREAKING NEWS @CaliforniaLabor makes a TRIPLE endorsement in US Senate Race! With 3 pro-union candidates who have all shown theyll stand shoulder to shoulder w/@CaliforniaLabor in our biggest fights, workers cant lose with@AdamSchiff, @BarbaraLeeForCA, or @katieporteroc! the labor group wrote in a tweet.

Its unclear what this triple testimonial of Democratic Reps. Adam Schiff, Katie Porter and Barbara Lee means for the race, and whether this endorsement that isnt really an endorsement will be followed with any campaign contributions.

VICE PRESIDENT HARRIS GAVELS HER WAY INTO HISTORY

Via David Lightman...

Vice President Kamala Harris entered the congressional record books Tuesday, breaking another Senate tie to surpass the total of former record-holder John C. Calhoun.

Harris, the former California U.S. senator and attorney general, set the mark with her vote to confirm Loren Alikhan as a federal district court judge.

Calhoun, a South Carolinian and major defender of slavery, had cast 31 tie-breakers when he served as vice president from 1825 to 1832. Harris, who took office in January 2021, needed far less time. The vice president, the president of the Senate, breaks Senate ties.

Closely divided Senates forced Harris to swing the gavel more often. For the first two years, Democrats controlled 50 seats and currently, the party controls 51 members in the 100-member Senate.

After her vote, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-New York, presented Harris with a golden gavel.

GRANITE BAY HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN FOR UTAH HOUSE SEAT

Via Jenavieve Hatch...

Jeff Howell, former Granite Bay resident and Granite Bay High School graduate, announced Tuesday hes running for a seat in Utahs 23rd House District. Howell, 35, is running as a Democrat in a seat that covers east Salt Lake, near the states Capitol. He lives in Salt Lake City with his wife and fellow Granite Bay graduate, Caitlin Howell, and their three sons.

He works as an advisor for the tech company Workday, and sits on the board of the Emerging Leaders Initiative in Utah, which mentors young people to get involved in non-profits and politics, as well as The Inn Between, a hospice and end-of-life care center for people experiencing homelessness.

I believe its time for a new generation of leaders who listen, who are honest, who can solve problems and deliver results, Howell told The Bee. I am just sick and tired of the polarization and contention infiltrating our current political environment. My mode of operation, my leadership style, is bipartisanship.

Incumbent Brian S. King is stepping away from his seat to run for Governor, and Howell hopes to replace him in 2024.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

I dont come to this trying to be punitive toward tech companies. Im not in the pocket of the publishers. I dont care about Rupert Murdoch and hedge fund papers. What I care about is our democracy.

- Assemblywoman Buffy Wicks, D-Oakland, in remarks delivered to the Senate Judiciary Committee during an informational hearing on the importance of journalism in the digital age. Wicks is the author of AB 886, which would require companies like Google and Meta to pay journalism outlets for news that appears on their platforms.

Best of The Bee:

California will receive about $3.1 billion from the Biden Administration to help advance planning and construction of the states bullet-train line through Fresno and the San Joaquin Valley, including extensions to Merced and Bakersfield, via Tim Sheehan .

Three months after suing the city of Sacramento over its response to the homeless crisis, Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho is accusing city officials of allowing homeless camps to pollute area waterways and endanger public health, via Sam Stanton .

Yolo Countys Moms for Liberty chapter and conservative groups are suing the county and its library system, alleging their First Amendment rights were abridged by protests against them during events at the Davis library branch, via Sam Stanton and Ishani Desai.
A Christmas tree stands in front of the west steps of the California Capitol on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Sacramento, Calif. California will not have an in-person tree lighting ceremony this year. Instead, Gov. Gavin Newsom and his wife will host a pre-recorded ceremony that will be released Wednesday. Demonstrators calling for a cease-fire in Gaza have protested at the California Capitol and other public places. The Governor's Office said it was concerned about security. (AP Photo/Adam Beam)

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  California Gov. Gavin Newsom won't host an in-person Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the state Capitol this year because of concerns that protesters calling for a cease-fire in Gaza would disrupt the annual event.

Instead, the Democratic governor and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, will host the event in a pre-recorded ceremony that will be released Wednesday.

As we continue to see protests across the country impacting the safety of events of all scales - and for the safety and security of all participating members and guests including children and families - the ceremony this year will be virtual, the Governor's Office said in a statement.

The tree lighting ceremony, which Newsom's office said dates back to the 1930s, appears to have originally been scheduled for Tuesday, according to a permit posted online by the California Highway Patrol. Barriers went up around the tree this week in front of the west steps of the state Capitol.

The Sacramento Regional Coalition for Palestinian Rights scheduled a tree lighting protest for the same day. Newsom has not called for Israel to halt its military actions in Gaza. He traveled to Israel in October and met with some of the victims of the Hamas attack.

Governor Newsom decided to cancel the tree lighting ceremony rather than face the public that is enraged by his shameful silence on the genocide in Gaza, one of the groups members, Yassar Dahbour, told the San Francisco Chronicle in a statement. This certainly doesnt add up with his past stance with Native Americans.

Protesters have targeted California Democrats since the war between Israel and Hamas started in October. Last month, the California Democratic Party canceled some events during its endorsement convention in Sacramento after protesters forced their way inside the convention hall.

The Christmas tree  a 60 foot (18-meter) red fir  was installed last month after being cut down from the LaTour Demonstration Forest in Shasta County, about a 45-mile (70-kilometer) drive from Redding. It is decorated with 10,000 LED lights and nearly 200 ornaments made by children and adults with developmental disabilities.

The ceremony will feature the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, the Wilton Rancheria and representatives of the Department of Developmental Services' regional centers. Harley Goodpasture, a 5-year-old member of the Pala Band of Mission Indians, will help light the tree. The Governor's Office said Goodpasture represents over 400,000 Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities who receive services from the state's nonprofit regional centers.
A Georgia Chick-fil-A location shut down early Monday night after one of its employees was pinned between two cars.

It happened at the restaurant located off Veterans Blvd in Dublin, Georgia. Dublin police confirmed to Channel 2s ABC affiliate WGXA News that a woman employee was in the drive-thru lane when she was hit by a car.

WMAZ later reported that 17-year-old Mahailey Donaldson was pinned between two cars.

The driver of Volkswagen told officers he was stopped in the drive-thru lane when his car jerked forward and accelerated, pinning Donaldson between his car and the Ford Explorer in front of them.

Both cars sustained moderate damage and a third car had minor damage.

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The news station reported that an ambulance transported Donaldson to a local hospital for treatment. Chick-fil-A officials told WGXA that the employee is expected to be OK and that she has a broken leg.

Please send your prayers to our team and the injured Team Member for a quick recovery, the restaurant wrote in a statement.

Police did not provide any other details about the accident. The location reopened for normal business hours on Tuesday.

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IN OTHER NEWS
The Georgia Ports Authority is spending $127 million to build a second inland rail terminal in Gainesville.

The Blue Ridge Connector will link Northeast Georgia with the Port of Savannah. The new terminal will open in 2026.

Through improved connectivity, developments like the Blue Ridge Connector maximize the impact of Georgias extensive logistics network, Gov. Brian Kemp said Tuesday, Dec. 6. Inland terminals have a proven track record of powering economic development for rural Georgians by extending port services to the doorstep of manufacturing and supply chain operations.

The Blue Ridge Connector will join the Appalachian Regional Port in Northwest Georgias Murray County, the first inland terminal operating by the Georgia Ports Authority, which opened in 2018.

Norfolk Southern Railroad will connect the new inland port to the ports authoritys Mason Mega Rail Terminal in Savannah.

Counting the Blue Ridge Connector, the state has now invested $374 million in rail capacity. About 18% to 20% of the ports authoritys container cargo now moves by rail.

This important investment will help our customers streamline their supply chains while reducing congestion of Georgia highways, said Griff Lynch, the authoritys president and CEO. As we have seen at the Appalachian Regional Port  improved rail service to the region will increase transportation efficiency and act as a magnet for jobs and economic development.

Every container moved by rail to the Blue Ridge Connector will avoid a 600-mile round trip by truck between Savannah and the Gainesville area.

Thats a massive benefit to cargo owners seeking to reduce their carbon footprint, Lynch added.

The federal government is putting up to $46.8 million toward the new inland terminal in the form of a grant from the Federal Maritime Administration.
The Liangzhu site and its significance to Chinese civilization

Xinhua) 08:01, December 06, 2023

BEIJING, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- In a congratulatory letter to the first Liangzhu Forum on Sunday, Chinese President Xi Jinping said the Liangzhu site represents the 5,000-year history of the Chinese civilization.

Xi also described the site as a treasure of world civilizations.

Over the years, Xi has paid continuous attention to the protection of the Liangzhu site, underscoring its importance on multiple occasions.

The Liangzhu site in east China's Zhejiang Province first came to light in 1936 when pieces of pottery and stone artifacts were discovered, followed by the discoveries of a significant number of tombs, altars and large-scale palace foundations in the 1980s and 1990s.

In the early 2000s, there were about 30 mining sites around the site, generating excessive industrial dust and noise pollution that turned the whole area into, as one archaeologist said, "something like a war zone."

The situation did not change until the summer of 2003, when Xi, then the Party chief of Zhejiang Province, made a trip to the Liangzhu site.

After watching a documentary on the protection of Liangzhu culture and being briefed on the local situation, Xi said that the Liangzhu site bears testimony to the existence of the Chinese civilization for at least 5,000 years, and stands as an invaluable treasure that cannot be replaced, stressing that it must be well protected.

As a result, the mountains in the area regained their tranquility and greenery, and many archaeological discoveries have been made over the past 20 years, including the unearthing of the Liangzhu ancient city in 2007 and a water conservancy system in 2015.

In 2016, four archaeologists wrote to Xi to express their hope that the Liangzhu site would be included on the UNESCO World Heritage List at the earliest possible date. Xi made an instruction, once again stressing the importance of the effective protection of ancient ruins, highlighting their role in deepening understanding of the long history and value of the Chinese civilization.

Three years later, the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
By Christian Kraemer and Andreas Rinke

BERLIN (Reuters) -Germany's coalition partners intensified efforts on Wednesday to find a way to plug a 17-billion-euro ($18.3 billion) hole in next year's budget after failing to resolve the crisis overnight, increasing uncertainty about financial plans in Europe's biggest economy.

The failure of talks between coalition leaders before Wednesday means it is unlikely parliament will approve a 2024 budget by the end of the year, leaving in limbo spending plans from climate projects to benefits and for local authorities.

Social Democrat (SPD) Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Greens Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck and Finance Minister Christian Lindner of the fiscally conservative Free Democrats (FDP), had hoped to get an agreement overnight to put to cabinet on Wednesday.

However, no deal was reached. Coalition sources told Reuters that while talks would continue on Wednesday, little progress had been made overnight and the parties were still far apart.

A German government spokesperson said he expected the cabinet to agree on the budget this year but declined to be more specific.

"I have learned to expect spontaneity with this coalition," said the spokesperson.

The budget crisis arose last month when the Constitutional Court blocked the reallocation of 60 billion euros of unused pandemic emergency funds to climate projects, throwing the government's financial planning into disarray.

At stake is funding for local authorities, businesses and federal states and the longer the wrangling goes on, the greater the uncertainty becomes.

DEBT BRAKE CONUNDRUM

A central question is whether to lift Germany's self-imposed limit on net new borrowing in 2024, a move Lindner fiercely opposes.

He bowed to pressure to suspend the cap, known as the debt brake, for this year after the constitutional court ruling but on Tuesday reiterated his opposition to doing that for a fifth straight year, saying it must not become the norm.

To suspend the debt brake, the government can declare an emergency situation - such as the coronavirus pandemic or energy price spike due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine - and parliament has to agree.

"You cannot make an emergency situation a normal situation," Lindner told ARD.

The debt brake is embedded in Germany's constitution and restricts the public deficit to 0.35% of gross domestic product.

Lindner also opposes tax increases and wants to plug the budget gap mainly through cuts to spending - a fundamentally different approach to the SPD and Greens.

The Greens want to stick with investment climate projects and ensure Germany's transformation to a green economy.

Scholz, who will face party members at a conference at the weekend, is loathe to agree to trimming spending on welfare benefits, such as unemployment pay, which the FDP favours.

The budget wrangling has raised tensions in the already loveless three-way coalition and polls show the big winners of the crisis are the opposition conservatives and far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD).

If no deal is reached, the coalition could collapse but most observers say it is in all the parties' interests to hammer out an agreement and stay in power.

Greens' co-leader Ricarda Lang told German radio a political decision would be made "very, very soon" and the coalition had to find a compromise to avoid a wider government crisis.

A temporary budget could kick in for next year if no agreement is finalised. This happens regularly after federal elections are held but before a budget has been agreed.

($1 = 0.9267 euros)

(Writing by Madeline Chambers, Editing by Rachel More, Toby Chopra and Bernadette Baum)
(KRON)  Berkeley police officers detained two people after shots were fired into an apartment on Monday, the Berkeley Police Department announced. The shooting led to a five-hour standoff.

BPD responded to the 2400 block of 8th Street for the report of a bullet being fired into an apartment. BPD said it determined that the bullet came from an apartment occupied by Tyreece Stitts and a juvenile.

SF homicide victim identified as 27-year-old tech worker

While BPD was trying to contact the suspect, a woman named Princess Dennis arrived at the scene and tried to force her way past police, the department said. Dennis was detained by officers.

After the lengthy standoff, Stitts exited the apartment and was arrested. He and the juvenile were taken into custody. Six pit bulls were handed over to Berkeley Animal Control.

Police served a search warrant at the home and found an AR-15-style ghost gun and high-capacity magazines.

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During this search, it was determined that the apartment was in complete disarray, was uninhabitable, and was not a safe environment for the juveniles residing there, BPD said.

Stitts was hospitalized and is being investigated by police. Dennis was arrested for child endangerment, possession of an assault weapon, possession of large-capacity magazines, and resisting arrest.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Anyone can become a Secret Santa for a Ukrainian defender, as the Ukrainian Women's Battalion continues its charity initiative Gift Christmas to the Military, originally launched on Instagram on Nov. 20, ahead of Christmas celebrations planned for Dec. 25.

With the help of this initiative, anyone can support Ukraine's soldiers on the frontlines not only with donations but also by personally purchasing something useful for them from a wish list.

Read also: Ukrainian soldiers showcase the "country's main Christmas tree" near Bakhmut  photos

Here are the steps on how to become a Secret Santa for the Ukrainian military:

Leave the symbol "+" in the comments under the post on the Ukrainian Women's Battalion's Instagram. A chatbot will contact you and send you a list of wishes. Choose a wish that you can fulfill. Write about the wish in the DM of the chatbot. Bring the gift to the center of the Ukrainian Women's Battalion

Read also: Main Christmas tree takes root in Kyiv ahead of St. Nicholas' Day  photo

Volunteers will be accepting packages until Dec. 10. They will then sort and send them to the military (the address can be obtained after booking a gift). The gifts will be delivered to the military before Christmas.

If a person who wants to become a Secret Santa does not have the opportunity to purchase gifts and bring them to the center, they can donate to the account of the Ukrainian Women's Battalion.

Read also: Police in Rivne play the Grinch as they cite Santa Claus for driving without a license  video

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Authorities are asking for the publics help after a girl that was dropped off at an emergency room in Dallas has been unable to identify her family, according to a report by Star-Telegram media partner, WFAA-TV.

On Monday someone, possibly her mother, dropped off a girl saying her name is Alejandra at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas,, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services told WFAA.

The girl was dropped off at the emergency room, according to WFAA. She has not been able to tell authorities any identifying information to locate relatives, the department reported.

The girl may be around 6 years old, according to the department.

Anyone with information that can help authorities locate her relatives is asked to contact Maria Villegas at 214-901-4649.

The girl is currently in the care of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, according to WFAA.
Gov. Katie Hobbs must avoid landmines on both sides if her efforts to shore up Arizona groundwater are to bear fruit.

Gov. Katie Hobbs stood before her newly created water policy council in May and essentially said, Dont be like the folks who came before you.

Hobbs didnt want them to meet for years, as her predecessors water council did, with almost nothing to show for it.

Six months later, Hobbs council has recommended a slew of legislation and an internal rule change at the state water department  a promising start, even if the centerpiece package dealing with rural groundwater is almost certainly DOA with conservative lawmakers.

But whether this effort moves Arizona forward or sets us back largely depends on what happens next.

Water council misread farmers' fears

It was a political miscalculation to start the rural water group with talk of regulation for areas that have none.

Not that its not needed.

Most farmers recognize that the groundwater on which they rely is dwindling and that they must do some things radically different to preserve their livelihood.

But at least some of their representatives arrived at the council with a growing sense of fear and distrust that big-city interests want to take their water and end their way of life.

Whether right or wrong, some farm interests felt they were being pigeonholed into provisions that they had previously balked. They felt they werent being listened to when they brought up other ideas for a deeper dive instead.

Thats why Sen. Sine Kerr  who as head of the Senates water committee, is one of the Legislatures two gatekeepers for water legislation  and Stefanie Smallhouse of the Arizona Farm Bureau quit the council midway through in protest.

Gov. Hobbs must now help mend fences

Its unfortunate that that happened, because the blowup injected partisan politics into the debate and, at least for now, has turned the worthy idea of creating more flexible regulation for rural areas into a Scarlet Letter.

But while that is a setback, it also presents an opportunity to mend fences.

Some farmers have proposed creating water allotments that would not penalize them for shifting to lower water-use crops. They want more flexibility to bank some of that allotment underground for later use.

Why haven't we done more: To rein in heavy groundwater use?

Others have asked for help to permanently and voluntarily transition some land away from farming.

Perhaps the best thing the governor could do now, instead of butting heads with lawmakers who may be less than willing to talk about creating rural management areas, is to meet face-to-face with farmers in the states most troubled groundwater basins to help flesh out their ideas.

After all, well never make progress if the largest water users in these basins feel like they dont own the solutions.

The devil's in the details for urban issues

As for urban water issues?

The council was tasked with shoring up the states Assured Water Supply program, which aims to ensure that development secures water before it builds.

Its a good sign that Rep. Gail Griffin  who leads the Houses water committee, making her the other gatekeeper for legislation  has introduced bills for some issues the committee discussed, including an effort to beef up enforcement on so-called wildcat lot developers that split land to avoid proving those lots have water.

But its anyones guess what that legislation will look like, or whether the broad coalition that moved these ideas forward will support Griffins bills once the language is fully fleshed out.

Ditto for the rule changes the state water department is now considering to help resume growth on renewable supplies in areas of metro Phoenix that heavily rely on groundwater.

The council recommended high-level ideas that are now being distilled into specifics. And, as we know, the devils always in the details.

Can Arizona avoid these landmines?

Whats clear is that developers and lawmakers are getting restless with Hobbs pause on single-family homebuilding in areas that dont have an Assured Water Supply designation.

They warn that an indefinite stop could imperil the economy, given the acute need for additional affordable housing.

Meanwhile, Senate President Warren Petersen has said the requirement to prove a 100-year water supply is arbitrary and longer than what most other states require.

And while he says he isnt planning to walk back that requirement, his comments suggest that Hobbs could face yet another battle with lawmakers if she keeps the spigot off for too long  and a national perception battle if major news outlets begin publishing headlines that Arizona wants to grow without water.

The governor must avoid both potential landmines, if her councils work so far is to bear lasting fruit.

Reach Allhands at joanna.allhands@arizonarepublic.com. On X, formerly Twitter: @joannaallhands.

If you love this content (or love to hate it  hey, I won't judge), why not subscribe to get more?

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona has water problems. Here's what must happen next to solve them
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has apparently changed his mind.

Last week, after the Oklahoma Tax Commission confirmed problems in the launch of the portal for the Parental Choice Tax Credit, Stitt told the news outlet Oklahoma Watch that he and his family planned to apply for the credit.

On Wednesday, the governor said after thinking about it, he decided not to apply after all.

I think my wife was planning to fill out the form, Stitt told the outlet last week. Everybody knows what my salary is as the state of Oklahoma governor. Every bit helps. Theres caps on it, where were going to prioritize it with the $75,000 and $150,000 (income levels) all in one bucket. But were all anxious to find out how many people are out there, how many people sign up for it, and also how many new schools are started, which Im real excited to see.

More: Oklahoma Parental Choice Tax Credit open for applications after delay

As governor, Stitt receives a salary of $147,000, though as founder of Gateway Mortgage Group the self-made millionaire is worth substantially more. He pumped $1.9 million of his own money into his 2022 re-election campaign and close to $5 million into his 2018 campaign.

Three of the governor's children attend private schools.

However, on Wednesday morning, Stitts spokesman Abegail Cave said the governor, upon reflection about the issue, decided not to apply for the tax credit.

The Governor encourages all Oklahoma families to apply for the tax credit, Cave wrote in an email to the Oklahoman. He did say he would, but after talking to his wife, they decided to not apply and make sure other Oklahoma families have the opportunity to get the credit.

The tax portal is set to open today at 2 p.m.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Gov. Kevin Stitt now won't apply Oklahoma's Parental Choice Tax Credit
Chelsea Mosley, 16, right, works on a financial planning assignment during class at Shorewood High School this spring. Gov. Tony Evers on Dec. 6 signed a bill into law that makes a personal financial literacy class a graduation requirement statewide.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers on Wednesday signed a bill into law that will make a personal financial literacy class a graduation requirement for all Wisconsin students.

The bill requires students, starting with the graduating class of 2028, "to complete at least half a credit of personal financial literacy in order to graduate from a school district," a news release from Evers' office said.

The governor announced his "Do the Math" initiative as part of his proposed 2023-25 biennial budget to provide districts resources "to start or improve financial literacy curriculum and prepare students for financial success," which includes learning concepts such as household budgeting, consumer financing, insurance decisions and retirement planning, the news release said.

We have to make sure our kids have the tools and skills to make smart financial and budgeting decisions to prepare for their future, so ensuring our kids have strong financial literacy is essential to setting them up for success as adults, Evers said in the news release. I was proud to propose investments to bolster financial literacy in our biennial budget, and its why Im glad to sign this bill today to make sure every student has a strong foundation for their financial futures.

More: Wisconsin does not require a personal finance course to graduate high school. A new proposal seeks to change that.

More: 'The stakes are really high': Inside the growing movement to teach financial literacy to every Milwaukee kid

Wisconsin has become the 24th state to make a standalone financial literacy course a graduation requirement. Other states that signed similar laws this year include West Virginia, Indiana, Minnesota, Connecticut, Louisiana and Oregon.

The number of states requiring a standalone personal finance course for graduation has tripled from eight to 24 in the past three years, according to a news release from Next Gen Personal Finance, a nonprofit organization that advocates for financial literacy in schools.

Previously, the state required school districts only to adopt state financial literacy academic standards to their curriculums, leaving the implementation of those standards to each school district. Some districts have created standalone personal finance classes, some making them graduation requirements or presenting them as electives, while others sprinkle personal finance material into business and economics classes, for example.

More: Five things to know about how Wisconsin schools teach personal finance

NextGen Personal Finance wrote in its 2023 annual report in March that 61.2% of Wisconsin students took personal finance class as an elective, 34.6% will take it as a graduation requirement, 3.6% will take a class that embeds personal finance content in it. 0.7% attend a school with no personal finance requirements.

One of the districts that has already made it a graduation requirement is Milwaukee Public Schools, which in 2021 was one of just a few urban school districts nationwide in the nation to do so.

The bill passed the Assembly in June and then the Senate in September after being introduced in March. A similar bill had been introduced in 2022, but neither chamber of the state legislature took it up, according to the state legislature website.

Contact Alec Johnson at alec.johnson@jrn.com. Follow him on Twitter at @AlecJohnson12.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Evers signs bill making personal finance graduation requirement
FILE PHOTO: Clothes, furniture and other belongings of locals are pictured piled up outside a house, in the aftermath of Storm Daniel, in the village of Metamorfosi

FILE PHOTO: Clothes, furniture and other belongings of locals are pictured piled up outside a house, in the aftermath of Storm Daniel, in the village of Metamorfosi

By Karolina Tagaris

ATHENS (Reuters) - Residents of the small Greek farming village of Metamorfosi have voted in favour of relocating their entire community after it was submerged by flood waters in September, seeking to protect themselves from future climate change-driven disasters.

Metamorfosi - which also flooded in 1953 and 1994 - nearly disappeared beneath the water when Storm Daniel, which brought devastation across the Mediterranean, struck the Thessaly region on Sept. 4-7, turning it into an inland sea. Sixteen people were killed, including two who drowned in Metamorfosi.

The village has resembled a ghost town since and residents told Reuters in November they had no choice but to relocate to a safer place.

The proposal to erect new houses in the nearby village of Palamas some 8 km (5 miles) away was approved by 142 residents against 14, via an informal vote in the form of a statutory declaration, said Metamorfosi community president Petros Kontogiannis. About 15 people abstained, he said.

"The vote shows that people cannot bear to live through this again," Kontogiannis told Reuters. "There is hope that we will have homes that will ensure our safety."

The plan was formally approved late on Tuesday by Palamas municipal authorities, which will provide the plot of land.

Residents will now take the proposal to the government together with a technical study citing "repeated flooding" and Metamorfosis' geomorphology as reasons for the move.

The government has said it would consider the relocation of Metamorfosi, whose name means "transformation" in Greek.

"I, personally, am completely open to it," Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis told parliament last month.

"Let's build a new Metamorfosi, a new village, with contemporary standards, that will finally be safe from floods, so that these people don't drown every 30 years," he said.

(This story has been refiled to correct the spelling to statutory, not statuary, in paragraph 4)

(Reporting by Karolina Tagaris; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)
Two faculty members and a student from Gadsden State Community Colleges Health Sciences division recently completed a medical mission trip to one of the worlds poorest countries, a journey that they say made a profound impact on them.

Ashley Crusey, director of GSCCs radiography program; Rebecca Southern, director of its diagnostic medical sonography program; and Macy Taylor, a diagnostic medical sonography student, spent two weeks in Malawi, an agrarian, landlocked country in southeastern Africa where, according to the Action on Poverty website, more than half the residents live in poverty and a fifth of them live in extreme poverty.

Macy Taylor, left, a student in Gadsden State Community Colleges Diagnostic Medical Sonography program, performs an ultrasound on a Malawian woman as Rebecca Southern, director of DMS program, looks on. Taylor and Southern were on a mission trip to the African country.

The trip was made through the Chikondi Health Foundation in Montgomery, according to a news release from the college.

Southern had already been to Africa on a mission trip in July, showing instructors and students at East African Christian College in Rwanda how to use ultrasound equipment that had been donated to them.

The Chikondi Health Foundation has a partnership with Blessings Hospital in Lumbadzi, Malawi, according to its website. Chikondi means love in the Chichewa language spoken in central Malawi.

The hospital received portable digital X-ray equipment, EKG and ultrasound machines, IV pumps and a ventilator, funded through the Giving Tree Medical Charity funded by Rotary clubs in California and Indiana, according to the release.

Southern learned that they needed experts to install the equipment and offer instruction on how to use it, and reached out to Crusey.

Why would I say no? I knew it was going to be a wonderful experience, Crusey said in the release.

Crusey installed the X-ray equipment, provided direction on how to use it and took 60 X-rays of 30 patients during the trip.

She said Blessings Hospital was having to refer patients to other hospitals for X-rays, often delaying care. Now, they have their own equipment, she said, so they can serve their patients in a timely manner at their facility.

Southern and Taylor set up the ultrasound machine and taught a physician and three medical officers to use it for bedside abdominal, obstetric and pelvic ultrasounds. They also performed 15 echocardiograms.

They were very interested and receptive to learning, Taylor said of the hospital staffers. They were like sponges. They wanted to soak it all in and know about how everything works.

The ultrasound machine also had immediate benefits for two pregnant women. Scans by Taylor revealed that the daughter of a cook at the hospital needed an immediate C-section, and that a woman who believed she was only 34 weeks pregnant actually was dilated and set to deliver within a few days.

It goes to show the importance of ultrasound, she said. A woman needs to know whats going on with her body and when to expect a big life-changing moment like giving birth.

Cruseys husband, Trey, also went on the trip and helped with building projects at the hospital and its campus. She said she was happy to share the experience with him, adding, He was so useful in so many ways. He never stopped working. He was always doing something to help.

While in Malawi, the group interacted with villagers and soaked up the countrys culture. They also went on a land and water safari in the Liwonde National Park, seeing baboons, bush deer, crocodiles, hippos and lions. Southern also recalled walking out of a hut and seeing a hippo in the water right in front of me.

Crusey cited the country's eye-opening living conditions, with people living in nothing but four walls for a house.

She said one well might provide water for an entire community, and barefoot toddlers could be seen doing chores.

Taylor called it a life-changing experience that gave her a new perspective of how fortunate she is to live in the U.S. with its health care system.

Ashley Crusey, left, director of Gadsden State Community Colleges Radiography program, and medical professionals at Blessings Hospital in Malawi review donated medical equipment.

The people of Malawi are so kind and grateful, she said. They just take joy in the simple things. They really do the best they can with very limited resources.

Crusey said it was a positive and moving experience for all. We grew as people  personally, spiritually and in ways we didnt expect to grow, she said.

Southern said as an instructor, it was a dream come true to be able to give a student that kind of experience in that kind of setting. She likened it to taking your kid to Disney World; you know youre going to enjoy it, but its a whole new level of fun when you get to see your kid enjoy it.

She added, (Taylor) was phenomenal, she said. She did everything at the hospital. I was just there to support her."

Taylor in turn said it was great to get to know Southern on my level, as an equal, adding, She knows a lot, which can be intimidating, but I saw firsthand how nice and loving she is to everyone she meets.

Southern and Crusey said theyd like to take more mission trips with Health Science instructors and students, with Southern calling it an opportunity to grow stronger connections, to collaborate and to share ideas.

She said its rewarding and that she (gets) as much out of these trips as the people we serve.

For more information on the Chikondi Health Foundation and Blessings Hospital, visit https://www.chikondihealth.org.

This article originally appeared on The Gadsden Times: GSCC Health Sciences group takes mission trip to Africa
FILE - The company logo shines off the rear deck of an unsold 2020 Model X at a Tesla dealership in Littleton, Colo, on April 26, 2020. A conglomerate of unions in Norway on Wednesday Dec. 6, 2023 said it will take action against Tesla in solidarity with their Swedish colleagues who are demanding that the Texas-based automaker sign a collective bargaining agreement. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File)

COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP)  A conglomerate of unions in Norway said Wednesday it will take action against Tesla in solidarity with its Swedish colleagues, who are demanding that the Texas-based automaker sign a collective bargaining agreement.

Jrn Eggum, the head of Fellesforbundet, or the United Federation of Trade Unions, said if Tesla doesnt accept the demand from Sweden's powerful metalworkers union IF Metall by Dec. 20, we will proceed with the implementation of boycott actions. Fellesforbundet is organizing, among others, employees in car repair workshops.

This is a clear signal to Tesla that they cannot transport Swedish Teslas through Norway, Eggum said, adding it was too early to say exactly which measures will be implemented. If they attempt it anyway, it will be met with actions, and we will take the measures necessary to make this work.

Dock workers at Swedens four largest ports already have stopped the delivery of Tesla vehicles in solidarity with the 130 members of IF Metall who walked out on Oct. 27, at seven workshops across Sweden where the popular electric cars are serviced.

Several Swedish unions, including postal workers, have since joined in a wave of solidarity with IF Metalls demands.

Tesla, which is non-unionized globally, has no manufacturing plant in Sweden but has several service centers.

The move comes a day after the United Federation of Workers in neighboring Denmark said there had been speculation that Tesla would deliver its cars to Danish ports and transport them on trucks to Sweden after Swedish dock workers blocked the reception of Tesla cars there.

The head of Norway's Fellesforbundet, which claims to have nearly 170,000 members, said Swedish union members were taking up the fight against a union-hostile company.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Migrants groups have been steadily arriving at the U.S.-Mexico border in the El Paso Sector over the past few days, according to a statement from U.S. Border Patrol.

The groups have been gathering near the Border Safety Initiative Marker (BSI) No. 36, more commonly known as Gate 36, near Midway Drive along the Border Highway. The group, consisting of families and children, mostly of Venezuelan origin, amassed to approximately 130 people, according to Border Patrol.

These migrants have been crossing illegally and are being processed by Border Patrol under Title 8.

We want to make sure that people understand whats going on right now, what were seeing or the people turning themselves in through Gate 36, which is not a gate. That is not a port of entry designed to make a legal entry into the United States, Border Patrol spokesperson Orlando Marrero said.

Unlike Title 42, which was a COVID-19 pandemic policy that turned away migrants based on avoiding the spread of the disease, Title 8 is an immigration law that leverages punishment for undocumented migrants who cross the border illegally, Marrero said.

Coming into the country illegally will hinder your chances of applying for a legal way or pathway to the US, explained Marrero.

Marrero added that crossing the border illegally will make them ineligible for legal pathways into the United States for up to five years for the first offense and 10 years for the second offense.

If you dont have a legal basis to enter, remain, or come into the United States legally, you will be removed and processed under Title 8, Marrero said.

For undocumented migrants seeking a legal pathway into the United States, Border Patrol said they must present themselves at an actual port of entry or schedule an appointment using the CBP One App.

Through the first quarter of fiscal year 2024, Border Patrol in the El Paso Sector, which also includes New Mexico, has recorded a significant decrease in migrant encounters compared to fiscal year 2023.

During October 2023, they reported a 58% decrease in encounters compared to October 2022. They also have recorded an average of 717 daily encounters through November, compared to a daily average of 2,700 migrant encounters last year during the same period.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
Republican presidential candidate and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley is threatening to nix the tax-exempt status of three top colleges after their leaders on Tuesday refused to state unequivocally that calling for the genocide of Jews violates their school harassment rules.

The equivocation from these college presidents is disgusting, Haley posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

The presidents of Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) were chastised in Congress Tuesday for their responses to the rise in antisemitism on campus since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel.

Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) asked each president if calling for the genocide of Jews violated their universitys bullying and harassment policies. The presidents generally said the speech could be investigated if it warranted it, but it would be a context-based decision.

Haley said that calling for the genocide of Jews is no different than calling for genocide of any other ethnic, racial, or religious group.

As POTUS, this will end or well pull their tax exempt status, she said.

Each president used their speaking time in the hearing to highlight efforts their university has made to protect Jewish students, but their answers failed to satisfy lawmakers.

MIT President Sally Kornbluth said she has not heard of an incident on her campus where people have called for the genocide of Jews. She said antisemitic language would be investigated. UPenn President Liz Magill said if the speech turns into conduct, it can be harassment. And Harvard President Claudine Gay said the speech could be considered harassment if it was targeted at an individual.

Visibly frustrated, Stefanik said their responses were unacceptable and called for Gay to resign.

In her opening statement, Gay said it is a difficult task balancing free speech and safety of students in these times and admitted she has not always gotten it right.

The Biden administration also denounced the remarks on Wednesday.

Its unbelievable that this needs to be said: Calls for genocide are monstrous and antithetical to everything we represent as a country, White House spokesman Andrew Bates said. Any statements that advocate for the systematic murder of Jews are dangerous and revolting  and we should all stand firmly against them, on the side of human dignity and the most basic values that unite us as Americans.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Some bears in Russia are half-asleep and unable to properly hibernate due to recent weather patterns, according to wildlife officials.

The partially-awake bears were seen walking around near their dens in the Amur region, the regions Department for the Protection of Wildlife said in a Nov. 20 post on the social media platform Telegram.

Officials said the bears are having trouble hibernating because of the regions warm weather over the past month.

The Amur region is in southeastern Russia and along the border with China. It has experienced above average temperatures since October, according to the Phobos weather center. At least one city in the region experienced its warmest October on record, the center said.

The warm weather has not affected the hibernation of mother bears and their cubs, wildlife officials said. These families began hibernating on schedule at the end of October.

Bears normally stock up on food then hibernate in their dens during the coldest winter months. Bear hibernation is strongly tied to weather patterns and food availability, according to a 2017 study in the Journal of Applied Ecology.

Warmer weather can cause bears to hibernate for a shorter period of time and emerge earlier in the spring, the study found.

The bears in the Amur region might also be having trouble hibernating because of soggy dens, Oivind Toien, an expert with the Institute of Arctic Biology at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, told LiveScience. Temperatures above freezing in wet snowy conditions could cause melt-water to enter dens [and] that could make it uncomfortable for bears to stay in.

Climate change has already affected  and will likely continue to affect  bear hibernation patterns, researchers found.

For every 1C (about 1.8F) increase in winter minimum temperatures, bears reduced hibernation by an average of six days, the study said. As a result, researchers said that bears are expected to be active for longer periods of the year, leading to more human-bear interactions.

Google Translate and Yandex Translate were used to translate the Telegram post from the Department for the Protection of Wildlife of the Amur Region and information from the Phobos weather center.

Watch as escaped kangaroo fights team of police officers trying to rescue it in Canada

Man tracks Siberian tiger that killed his dog  then it kills him, Russian officials say

Sharks vs crocodile: Anglers watch epic battle from boat in Australia, video shows
In Gaza, as the first hostage releases of Israeli civilians began over a week ago, online comments rolled in about how happy they were with their captors; how well-treated they were by the militants that murdered their families and kidnapped them. Some even joked that over the course of their captivity, hostages fell in love with their captors, giving them looks of affection as they left their custody.

The reason why the hostages looked so sanguine has since emerged: they were drugged by Hamas before their release, and were explicitly told to smile and wave, all the while as other members of their families still held hostage were used to guarantee their cooperation.

There is a PR operation at work within the terrorist organisation, and western apologists are happy to pick up everything they are throwing down. That willingness, and in some corners, eagerness, to grant terrorists good press isnt just what blurs to Holocaust revisionism, it also endangers Jews still trapped within Gaza. This indifference to, whitewashing and even cheerleading of the events of October 7 is a reflection of longstanding international hostility towards not just the Jewish state, but the Jewish people.

As further information about the events of October 7 emerges, the full picture of horrors becomes clear. On Monday the New York Times reported, Hamas has denied that its fighters committed sex crimes, which it said would violate Islamic principles. But ample evidence has been collected, like the bodies of women found partially or fully naked, women with their pelvic bones broken, the accounts of medical examiners and first responders, videos taken by Hamas fighters themselves, and even a few firsthand witnesses like a woman, in a video made public last month by police officials, who said she had watched Hamas terrorists take turns raping a young woman they had captured at a music festival, mutilate her and then shoot her in the head.

Also on Monday, at the United Nations headquarters former Meta executive Sheryl Sandberg hosted an event to spotlight the sexual crimes perpetrated on October 7. That meeting was necessary because its not just Hamas denying there were sexual crimes committed, but Western apologists, as well.

And yet, international womens groups that were created in order to advocate for women in just these kinds of circumstances remain silent. On Tuesday at a press conference Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu switched from Hebrew to English to emphasise, I say to the womens rights organisations, to the human rights organisations, youve heard of the rape of Israeli women, horrible atrocities, sexual mutilation  where the hell are you?

The debate about and relevance of the sexual crimes committed by Hamas against Israeli women isnt just limited to what happened on one single day, on October 7.

With temporary ceasefire abruptly over, those close to the negotiations are placing the blame on the fact that Hamas was unwilling to hand over the remaining female hostages. Hamas released the elderly and the younger girls; all thats left are the women in their teens or twenties. The Times of Israel reported on the speculation as to why, Hamas doesnt want to release the remaining female hostages because it doesnt want them speaking publicly about what they endured on October 7 and during their time in captivity.

Similarly, Axios reporter Barak Ravid reported on Monday, State Department spokesman Mathew Miller says it seems that the reason Hamas refused to release all the women who it held hostage was because the terror group didnt want them to tell what they went through while in captivity in Gaza. Furthermore, on Wednesday, Julia Ioffe reported for Puck News According to three senior Biden admin officials, Hamas is not releasing the remaining women hostages because, it seems, they have been sexually abusing them. One official said they think Hamas is keeping these women in order to keep raping them.

Its not speculation to posit that the same Hamas militants who committed sexual crimes on October 7 may have continued assaulting Israeli women still in their custody. On Wednesday, a doctor who treated some of the 110 hostages released from captivity told the Associated Press that at least 10 men and women among those freed were sexually assaulted or abused. The debate over these sexual crimes isnt an intellectual exercise in just how evil Hamas is; it directly impacts the current hostage crisis. Sexual predators are holding over a dozen women hostage for two months; and womens organisations and the international community cant even muster a shrug.

Frustration over the plight of the hostages is bubbling over even within Israel. Representatives of the families and the Hostage Families Headquarters wrote in a letter to members of the Israeli Security Cabinet: We have received solid intelligence that there are hostages whose condition has deteriorated and who are now in immediate danger of life due to untreated injuries or illnesses. We demand that you take urgent action.

Since the collapse of the ceasefire, international attention has almost entirely shifted off of the Israeli hostages left remaining in Gaza. The silence of the international community makes them complicit in one of the worst atrocities in modern times.

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Many Jews and decent non-Jews are continually expressing shock at Western reactions to Hamass orgiastic pogrom in southern Israel on October 7. Well-meaning people are struggling to believe how ubiquitous are vicious lies designed to legitimise and even valorise the harming, killing and raping of Jews.

These lies, as the good-hearted are finding out, underpin the beliefs not just of mobs waving Jihadi slogans, but the responses to 7/10 of some heads of Ivy League universities, UN leaders and special envoys, womens groups, statesmen, prominent Anglo-American politicians and famous journalists.

By contrast, to those of us who have long been tracking anti-Semitism both within Islamic societies and among their Left-wing admirers in the West, there has been nothing of surprise. Not in Hamass tactics, its unbounded bloodlust and zest for torture and murder and rape, and not in the silence of feminist groups and activists, of the BBC, or of UN Women.



Details have been emerging this week of what was done to women on and after October 7, too grim to be described here. There is every fear, then, that the Jewish-Israeli women who remain alive in captivity in Gaza are enduring unspeakable sexual crimes.



But it took the most respected broadcaster in the world, the BBC, until just recently to run a report on Hamass pre-meditated use of sexual violence in the October 7 attacks.



Once again, I cant say Im surprised. This is an organisation whose star Middle East and war correspondents have long track records of anti-Israel bias. It has refused to budge on its decision not to describe Hamas as terrorists, has a well-documented record of employing and giving platform to terror sympathisers, such as Sana Ebrahimi, and since October 7 has reported as fact unverified stories straight from Hamas, just as it has long used Palestinian sources of dubious legitimacy to shape its reportage and news narratives about Israel.



Hanging over the landscape in which the BBCs foreign news outfit has played such a key role is an odious moral equivalence: that Israels just war to destroy Hamas in Gaza, complete with inevitably tragic and numerous civilian casualties, is the same as, or worse than Hamass terrorism.



The disgusting nature of such a moral equivalence has been crudely visible in the silence surrounding Hamass use of rape as a war tactic. The silence implies: rape, torture and murder is bad unless its Jewish women being raped, tortured and murdered by Islamists. Because they deserve it. They deserve it because those who raped, tortured and murdered them were merely resisting by any means necessary  a favourite slogan on college campuses and on marches. Or showing what decolonisation looks like. Or taking the Palestinian struggle from the river to the sea.



Not only is there no general moral equivalence between Hamas and Israel and the IDF, but their approach to women couldnt be more fundamentally opposed. In Israel or in the IDF, rape is not glorified, it is not legal, it is not common, accepted, and it does not go unpunished when found out. Any IDF solider who is found guilty of rape, of any woman, including a Palestinian of any type, innocent or terrorist, is tried and locked up. Hamas, by contrast, revels in its use against the enemy, and condones it against its own women.



The IDF has female soldiers, including combat soldiers, some of whom have been instrumental in the Gaza ground campaign. Female tank crews from the mixed-gender Caracal brigade mowed over dozens of terrorists on October 7, saving the whole community of Kibbutz Holit.



Its true that Israels record where women are concerned is far from rosy, and some say a long-standing culture of machismo and misogyny led to key warnings about October 7  from a female analyst and soldier  being dismissed and ignored. Even so, Israel is the best place in the Middle East for Arab and Muslim women to live their lives. Israeli Arab women are the best educated, have the best shot at wealth, political power, and safety protected by law.



So the irony of making Israel out to be on a par with Hamas  in any sense at all  is a sickly one indeed. Israel and Hamas occupy different moral universes where all human life, including that of women, is concerned.



But then, as I have found out all too well, the foul treatment of women is standard operations among the pro-Palestine lot. In the last few weeks I have received the vilest abuse from people with the Palestinian flag in their profile pictures for my public appearances defending Israel. All of it, almost to the person, whether from women or men, concerned by body, appearance, gender  and, of course, coarsely worded wishes for my demise.



When it stays quiet on the rape of Jewish-Israeli women, and presents falsehoods about Israel as fact, the BBC is siding with these types of people. Its not surprising, but it is disappointing.

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.
Fox Newss Sean Hannity hosted a town hall with former President Trump on Tuesday in Davenport, Iowa where the former president answered a range of questions from the primetime network host.

Trump took swipes at President Biden, some of his GOP rivals and answered questions surrounding media reports that cast his second-term as a dictatorship.

The event was held the night before the fourth Republican primary debate, which Trump is again skipping, opting instead to hold a private fundraiser.

Trump in his remarks during the town hall lauded the state of Iowa, where polls have consistently shown him leading his rivals by more than 20 percentage points.

Follow below for The Hills live coverage.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Alabama student Natalee Ann Holloway was just 18 when she disappeared without trace during a holiday to Aruba with her classmates in May 2005 to celebrate their high school graduation.

Despite an extensive search operation and the arrest of several suspects, Natalees body was never found and the case was long unsolved. She was finally declared dead by a judge in her home state on 12 January 2012.

Then, in October 2023, prime suspect Joran van der Sloot, 36, finally confessed to her murder, bringing closure for Holloways family after 18 years of anguish and torment.

Who was Natalee Holloway?

The missing girl was born on 21 October 1986 to Dave and Beth Holloway, an insurance salesman and speech pathologist respectively, and was raised in Clinton, Mississippi.

The couple separated when Natalee was seven and she and her brother Matthew subsequently lived with their mother and her new husband George Twitty in Mountain Brook, Alabama, an affluent suburb of Birmingham.

Holloway, a Wizard of Oz and Lynyrd Skynyrd obsessive, was a member of the National Honor Society during her time at Mountain Brook High School and was in the schools dance squad, graduating on 24 May 2005, after which she, 124 classmates and seven chaperones set out for the Caribbean island of Aruba to celebrate the milestone.

She was thereafter set to attend the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa on a full scholarship that autumn and planned to become a doctor.

What happened in Aruba?

Holloway and her classmates spent the following week partying at a Holiday Inn at the north end of the island, soaking up the sunshine by day and drinking and clubbing by night.

But, on 30 May, the day Holloway was due to fly home, she completely vanished, her luggage found packed but untouched alongside her passport in her room.

Natalee Holloway (AP)

She had last been seen outside of a nightclub called Carlos n Charlies in Oranjestad at 1.30am that morning, leaving the venue in a silver Honda alongside Dutchman Joran van der Sloot and two Surinamese brothers, Deepak and Satish Kalpoe.

Was Holloway ever found?

Beth Holloway Twitty was notified of her daughters disappearance and quickly flew in, whereupon she tracked down Van der Sloot at his home in Noord, where he told her that Natalee had been promptly dropped off back at the hotel after they had visited a lighthouse together.

A search party was meanwhile being assembled to hunt for the girl, composed of Dutch soldiers and three F-16 fighter jets, local police and more than 100 tourists. They never found her.

With law enforcement under pressure, Van der Sloot and the Kalpoes were arrested on 9 June and gave conflicting accounts of what happened, with the former this time saying he had parted company with Holloway at the beach.

They were released, then re-arrested and released again on 3 September before being picked up for a third time on 21 November 2007, at which point they were charged with involuntary manslaughter before again being freed for want of evidence on 7 December.

Seemingly now above suspicion in the eyes of the law, Van der Sloots role in the affair once more became the focus of attention in February 2008 after he was caught on a hidden camera, set up by Dutch investigative journalist Peter R de Vries, claiming that Holloway had lost consciousness after smoking marijuana and died on the beach.

Joran van der Sloot (Martin Mejia/AP)

After being made aware of the clandestine recording, Van der Sloot claimed he had been lying.

Two years later, he unexpectedly emailed John Q Kelly, Beth Holloway Twittys lawyer, offering to reveal the location of Natalees body for $225,000.

Having informed the FBI, Kelly agreed to his terms and travelled to meet Van der Sloot in Aruba on 10 May 2010, paying him an initial $25,000 in two instalments for the tip that Holloway lay buried beneath the foundations of a nearby house, only for the informant to again claim that he had been lying and abruptly leave the country, jetting out for Peru to take part in a poker tournament.

He would later be charged with extortion and wire fraud over the incident by the US District Court of Northern Alabama and indicted on those charges on 30 June 2010.

What happened in Peru?

Just 20 days after arriving in Peru, a 21-year-old business student, Stephany Flores Ramirez, was found dead in Van der Sloots hotel room in Lima.

He was arrested for Floress murder in Chile on 3 June, extradited to Peru on 7 June and confessed to the killing, telling police he had been angered by Flores accessing his laptop and claiming to have discovered information definitively linking him to Holloways disappearance.

Prosecutors, however, argued that he had murdered Flores in order to steal her casino winnings.

He pleaded guilty in court on 11 January 2012 to first-degree murder and robbery and was sentenced to 28 years in prison two days later, also ordered to pay his victims family $75,000 in reparations, the judge unmoved by the defences claim that he had suffered extreme psychological trauma from the Holloway affair.

Either side of those two dates, Natalee Holloway was officially declared dead by Alabama probate judge Alan King on 12 January.

How did Joran van der Sloot finally confess?

The missing girls unsolved disappearance remained the subject of huge interest over the next decade, in no small part thanks to the boom in true crime podcasts and streaming series.

After spending almost 11 years behind bars in Peru, Van der Sloot was unexpectedly temporarily extradited to the United States on 10 May 2023 to answer the extortion and wire fraud charges from 2010.

After pleading not guilty in a US District Court in Birmingham, Alabama, on 9 June, Van der Sloot was held in a local jail for arraignment.

Beth Holloway Twitty (Butch Dill/AP)

He then returned to court on 18 October to enter a plea deal at which he reversed his initial plea and also, finally, confessed to the murder of Natalee Holloway, explaining that he had beaten her to death with a cinder block after she rejected his sexual overtures and disposed of her body in the ocean.

Judge Anna Manasco sentenced him to a further 20 years in prison over the fraud charges, designed to run concurrently with his Peruvian sentence, and told him: You have brutally murdered, in separate incidents years apart, two beautiful women who refused your sexual advances.

Reacting outside court, Beth Holloway said simply: Its over. Joran van der Sloot is no longer the suspect in my daughters murder. He is the killer. After 18 years, Natalees case is solved. He gave a proffer in which he finally confessed to killing Natalee.

Although Arubas 12-year statute of limitations for homicide has passed, the islands Public Prosecutors Office has not ruled out taking further legal action against Joran Van der Sloot in light of the belated confession.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology President Sally Kornbluth speaks during a hearing of the House Committee on Education on Capitol Hill, on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023 in Washington. | Mark Schiefelbein, Associated Press

Republican members of the House Education and Workforce Committee upbraided the presidents of Harvard, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Pennsylvania on Tuesday over the universities efforts to address rising antisemitism on their campuses.

Today, each of you will have a chance to answer to and atone for the many specific instances of vitriolic, hate-filled antisemitism on your respective campuses that have denied students the safe learning environment, said Committee chairwoman Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-North Carolina, during Tuesdays hearing in Washington.

As you confront our questions in this hearing, remember that you are not speaking to us, but to the students on your campus who have been threatened and assaulted and who look to you to protect them, she said.

The presidents, Harvards Claudine Gay, MITs Sally A. Kornbluth and Penns M. Elizabeth Magill, each acknowledged that antisemitism was a growing problem at their schools and society in general.

They explained they have stepped up campus security and taken action against anyone who harasses or discriminates against students, faculty or staff. While working to ensure safety, they are also protecting free speech.

During these difficult days, I have felt the bonds of our community strain. In response, I have sought to confront hate while preserving free expression. This is difficult work. And I know that I have not always gotten it right, said Harvards Gay.

Penns Magill said she has condemned antisemitism publicly, regularly and in the strongest possible terms. And today, let me reiterate my and Penns unyielding commitment to combating it.

She continued, As president, I am committed to a safe, secure and supportive educational environment so that our academic mission can thrive. It is crucial that ideas are exchanged and diverse viewpoints are debated. As a student of constitutional democracy. I know that we need both safety and free expression for universities and ultimately democracy to thrive in these times, these competing principles can be difficult to balance, but I am determined to get it right.

One critic of Penns actions is former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr., who is a Penn alum. Huntsman said the familys Huntsman Foundation will stop making donations to the University of Pennsylvania over its lack of response to Hamas attack on Israel, this despite several generations of the family graduating from Penn and their long history of philanthropy to the university.

Related

Harvard President Claudine Gay, left, speaks as University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill listens during a hearing of the House Committee on Education on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023 in Washington. | Mark Schiefelbein, Associated Press

MITs Kornbluth, meanwhile, said MIT has launched a campuswide effort to stand together against hate.

It will emphasize both education and community building, especially in our residence halls. In addition to fighting antisemitism, it will address Islamophobia, which is also on the rise, and also underreported. MIT will take on both, not lumped together, but with equal energy, and in parallel, Kornbluth said.

Rep. Brandon Williams, R-New York, said the purpose of the committee hearing was to assess the health of the nations most elite, and until recently, esteemed educational institutions in this country, disclosing he earned a graduate degree and spent a year at Harvard as a visiting student.

We raised the question whether your institutions and others like them deserve to enjoy the benefits of partnerships with our government such as research investments, student loan guarantees, tax-free status for endowments and funding for veterans education totaling perhaps $100 billion, he said.

Williams noted that each of the university presidents testified that education is the solution to push back against antisemitism.

Yet your educational institution under your leadership and previous leaders is seething with hateful and threatening antisemitic demonstrations. But these are, only, as I mentioned, these are only against the Jewish students. No one else, just Jews at your school. Yet, you say you believe in accountability, said Williams directing his remarks to Gay.

Should the federal government keep shoveling money and privilege to institutions like yours that fail so profoundly in their mission? Your mission is to educate. Education is the solution. You have 387 years and youve arrived at this place of virulent antisemitism and hate. Why should the federal government continue to partner with you and such a failed accomplishment or lack of accomplishment?

Meanwhile, Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, called for Gays resignation after an intense exchange on where the Harvard president draws the line between protected speech and incitement to violence, and whether she would take disciplinary action against individuals who participated in rallies where there were calls for an intifada, or a violent Palestinian uprising. Stefanik is a Harvard alumnus.

Gay said the university gives a wide berth to protected speech, but acts when rhetoric crosses into conduct that violates the schools policies on harassment, bullying or intimidation.

Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah, questioned what the academic leaders would do if it was determined that their diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and use of critical race theory in academic study were linked to rising levels of antisemitism.

MITs Kornbluth pushed back. I find it hard to understand how equity and inclusion as a concept is a hate inducer, she said.

In a statement issued prior to Tuesdays committee hearing, Owens decried antisemitism, noting it has no place in America, yet it has found a home on our college campuses.

He continued, These institutions have failed to fulfill their core responsibility of keeping students and staff safe by allowing hate, harassment and violence towards the Jewish community to continue unabated.

Rep. Joe Wilson, R-South Carolina, criticized the university presidents for not supporting ideological diversity on their campuses, and asked for figures on how many conservative faculty they employed.

President McGill, what is the percentage of conservative professors allowed to teach at your institution? Wilson queried.

Representative. I strongly believe in a wide variety of perspectives. We do not track that information, she said.

None of the presidents said they collected that information.

Wilson postulated that the lack of diversity and inclusion of intellectual thought was a contributing factor to rising antisemitism on college campuses.

Its due to illiberalism that has taken over the country. You might look into that and when you get your next government grant, with that in mind, the barbaric mass murder on Oct. 7 by Irans puppet invading Israel, he said.

Related

Late last week, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox called on the states public colleges and universities to exercise institutional neutrality.

It may be a little controversial, it should not be. ... This idea that every institution needs to weigh in on every political debate of the day, its one of the dumbest things weve done over the last 10 or 20 years as a country, he said

The governors remarks came following the Utah Board of Higher Educations vote to adopt a resolution establishing expectations for implementing principles of free expression on state-supported campuses.

In addition to institutional neutrality, the resolution calls on colleges to protect a speakers right to free expression at approved events or venues on campus and to provide a process for an institution to publicly address, condemn or prohibit expression or actions that violate the law.
WASHINGTON  The presidents of three elite American universities faced a fierce backlash Wednesday that stretched from their campuses to the White House over their refusal to say whether calling for the genocide of Jews violates their policies against bullying and harassment.

Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman called for the immediate resignations of the presidents of Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, saying their answers before a congressional panel on Tuesday reflect a moral bankruptcy.

The presidents answers reflect the profound educational, moral and ethical failures that pervade certain of our elite educational institutions due in large part to their failed leadership, Ackman, a Harvard alumnus, wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

They must all resign in disgrace, he said.

Harvard University President Dr. Claudine Gay delivers remarks on Dec. 5, 2023, during the House Committee on Education and the Workforce hearing on the recent rise in antisemitism on college campuses.

The college presidents  Claudine Gay of Harvard, Liz Magill of the University of Pennsylvania and Sally Kornbluth of MIT  have all come under scrutiny recently over how their institutions have handled a rise in antisemitism on their campuses since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.

All three testified Tuesday during a hearing before the Republican-led House Committee on Education and the Workforce, where they faced tough questions as their campuses have become hotbeds for protests, anti-Jewish graffiti and harassment of students.

But it was their response to questions about whether calling for the genocide of Jews violates their schools code of conduct against bullying and harassment that touched off a firestorm.

All three offered carefully worded statements that danced around the question despite repeated attempts by Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., to get them to answer.

Gay responded that hateful speech is at odds with Harvards values and that calling for the genocide of Jews is antisemitic. But when pressed on whether it violates the code of ethics, she replied that it can be, depending on the context.

Magill responded to the same question by saying, If the speech turns into conduct, it can be harassment. Yes.

Kornbluth also drew a distinction between speech and conduct, suggesting that calling for the genocide of Jews would violate the colleges rules if targeted at individuals.

Stefanik called the presidents response unacceptable and antisemitic.

They all must resign immediately today, she wrote on X.

At the White House, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said calls for genocide are "vile" and "counter to everything this country stands for."

"Statements that advocate for the systemic murder of Jews are appalling, and we should all stand against them," she said. "...We should be calling out this type of hate."

She declined to say whether the university presidents should resign, saying, "They have to speak for themselves on this."

In recent weeks, the federal government has opened investigations into several universities  including Penn and Harvard  regarding antisemitism and Islamophobia on campus.

Choosing a college is hard: The Israel-Hamas war is making it harder

Lior Alon, a postdoctoral associate at MIT, said the presidents response was embarrassing.

None of them was able to say calling for genocide of the Jewish people is bad and it's harassment  that we don't want it on our campus, said Alon, who is from Israel. For me, it was a shock. I cannot express how unwelcome I feel now.

Liyam Chitayat, a Ph.D. student at MIT, said she also found the presidents testimony alarming.

It was really good proof that these university administrators are the main enablers, sympathizing with terrorism on college campuses, said Chitayat, also from Israel. Their inability to protect Jewish students is systematic.

At the University of Pennsylvania, the leaders of Penn Hillel, a Jewish campus organization, condemned Magill for refusing to characterize calls for the genocide of Jews as a breach of the schools code of conduct and for saying the offense depends on the context.

We are appalled by the need to state the obvious: Calls for genocide against Jews do not depend on the context, the group said in a statement.

Harvard Hillel said Gays refusal to draw a line around threatening antisemitic speech as a violation of Harvards policies is profoundly shocking given explicit provisions within the conduct code prohibiting this kind of bullying and harassment.

President Gays failure to properly condemn this speech calls into question her ability to protect Jewish students on Harvards campus, the group said in a statement.

Insults and Molotov cocktatils: Jews live in fear as antisemitism rages

Appearing on CNN, former Harvard President Larry Summers, who held key positions in the administrations of Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, noted what he called a double standard in the way university leaders have responded to racism and other forms of prejudice and the way theyve responded to what is pretty clearly antisemitism.

Asked if she felt safe on the MIT campus, Chitayat said, Its not that Jewish and Israeli students dont feel unsafe. They are unsafe.

When you have administrators that, instead of finding ways to protect Jewish life, tell us to enter through the back door onto campus, when you have students that continuously, time and time again, invite the leading antisemites of Boston to come and terrorize us on campus  it's not about feeling unsafe, its about being unsafe, she said. This is one of the biggest failures of higher education in the U.S.

Wednesday afternoon, she said, a man who had been harassing Jewish students showed up at the Hillel and urinated on the windows of the Jewish prayer room while students were inside.

Contributing: Associated Press

Michael Collins covers the White House. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter, @mcollinsNEWS.

Campus protests: Columbia University suspends pro-Palestinian and Jewish student clubs

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Antisemitism on campus hearing: Harvard, Penn, MIT heads face backlash
Co-chairman of Golos non-governmental organisation Melkonyants speaks on the phone at his office in Moscow

By Andrew Osborn

LONDON (Reuters) - A court in Moscow ruled to keep the head of an election monitoring group who has alleged widespread ballot fraud in the past in prison until mid-April next year, a month after Russia is expected to hold its next presidential vote.

Grigory Melkonyants, co-chairman of the non-governmental Golos group, which the justice ministry has labelled "a foreign agent", was detained in August before regional elections and accused of cooperating with an "undesirable organisation," something he denies.

Golos (Voice) has in the past deployed observers at polling stations, run a telephone hot line for complaints, and chronicled reports of electoral abuses on a nationwide violations map on its website.

The court's decision to extend the pre-trial detention of Melkonyants by a further three months - to eight months - comes as Russia is preparing to officially begin a presidential election campaign.

Russian lawmakers will vote on Thursday on a proposal to hold the vote on March 17, when President Vladimir Putin is expected to seek and comfortably win a new six-year term.

Although Golos has sometimes advised election officials, it has faced years of pressure from some parts of the state which have cast it as a shadowy Western-backed organisation out to stir up unrest and discredit Russia, something it denies.

'I AM INNOCENT'

Allies of Melkonyants have accused the authorities of unjustly detaining him to avoid proper election scrutiny and pointed to the unusual rush to extend his pre-trial detention, which was due to expire on Jan. 17.

"In fact, we understand that there is only one reason for such haste in extending the deadline - not to spoil the presidential campaign with a court hearing over the chairman of a monitoring organisation," said Stanislav Andreichuk, the other co-chairman of Golos.

"It would be unseemly somehow. That is why they decided to extend the deadline one day before the elections were announced."

The reason the hearing was brought forward, according to the authorities, was because a new state investigator in the case had been appointed. The investigator said Melkonyants might abscond or try to pressure witnesses in his case if he was freed before he stands trial.

The Kremlin has repeatedly denied the frequent accusation from critics that it interferes in court cases and the Central Election Commission says it does everything it can to ensure elections are free of fraud.

Melkonyants is accused of working with the European Network of Election Observation Organisations (ENEMO), a Montenegro-based NGO. Andreichuk, his co-chairman, has said Golos had no interaction with ENEMO since Russia banned ENEMO as "undesirable" in 2021.

Online Russian-language news provider SOTA cited Melkonyants as sounding dejected after Wednesday's ruling.

"I am an innocent person and I am already serving a sentence," SOTA cited him as saying.

"I was not conducting any terrible activities, and keeping me in a cell is, in my opinion, strange. I have no opportunity to communicate with my relatives and I don't even get calls with my mother. This is a serious ordeal for me."

(Reporting by Andrew Osborn; Editing by Angus MacSwan)
ST. LOUIS  You would hardly know it driving through St. Louis, but one of the regions highways runs along the same path as the loneliest road in America.

In 1986, Life Magazine claimed the state of Nevadas portion of U.S. Highway 50 to be the nations loneliest road. This assertion is based on what drivers would encounter while driving on the highway: Desert valleys, packs of mountains, and very few signs of civilization.

Its totally empty. There are no points of interest. We dont recommend it. We warn all motorists not to drive there unless theyre confident of their survival skills, said the original report, via archives on the LoneliestRoad.us website.

The loneliest road in America runs around 400 miles, approximately from the municipalities of Carson City to Baker. The states tourism board Travel Nevada has embraced its stretch of U.S. Highway 50 as a gateway to ghost towns, historic mining communities, [and] stunning state parks.

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As a whole unit, U.S. 50 stretches more than 3,000 miles across 12 states. The approximate end points from west to east are in Sacramento, California, and Ocean City, Maryland.

In the hypothetical case where a brave driver would take U.S. 50 in full from west to east, drivers would take on the nations loneliest road very early into the trip since Nevada neighbors California. And nearly two-thirds of the way through their trip, they would also roll through south St. Louis County.

According to RoadTripUSA.com, the same path would lead drivers through Kansas City suburbs and relatively larger small Missouri communities, like Sedalia, Jefferson City, and Washington, before reaching St. Louis County. Once past Missouri, U.S. 50 would continue through other Metro East communities, like OFallon, Shiloh, and Lebanon.

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U.S. Highway 50 is a transcontinental highway that has served drivers since 1926 and expanded several times through the 1950s. Its origins predate the Interstate Highway System, which took effect after World War II.

A feature report from WeBuildValue.com says Nevadas distinction helped the highway connect the American states [and become] a symbol of the dream of travelling coast-to-coast, a hop from one ocean to another, driven only by the desire for discovery.

NOTE: Maps provided above courtesy of Google Maps, with routes created by other app users.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
Hillary Ellington Brown died Nov. 28 following a procedure performed by her husband, Dr. Ben Brown, in his office at Restore Plastic Surgery in Gulf Breeze a week earlier.

The Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office is investigating the death of a 33-year-old woman from Gulf Breeze, Hillary Ellington Brown, who went into cardiac arrest during an after-hours plastic surgery procedure performed by her husband, Ben Brown.

Ben Brown, 40, is a board-certified plastic surgeon who owns Restore Plastic Surgery in Gulf Breeze. He was performing multiple procedures on his wife Nov. 21 when Hillary went into cardiac arrest at his office. Ben called 911 and performed CPR, but he wasn't able to keep Hillary's brain oxygenated.

Hillary was taken to the hospital, where she was in a coma with severe brain swelling for a week. She never recovered and on Nov. 28, Hillary was removed from life support and her organs were donated.

Here's what we know about Hillary Ellington Brown's death.

Ben Brown performed plastic surgery procedures at Restore Plastic Surgery that ended in Hillary Brown's death

According to Marty Ellington, Ben Brown told them he had been performing several procedures on Hillary in his office late on the afternoon of Nov. 21 when she suddenly went into cardiac arrest.

In a social media post from Nov. 24, Brown wrote about his wife's coma.

"We need prayers for a miracle. Hillary had a cardiac arrest on Tuesday afternoon," Brown wrote. "We called 911 and started CPR. Her heart came back but her brain is not doing well. She has been in a coma since she went unconscious on Tuesday. Hillary Ellington Brown you are my soulmate, my world, my everything. Please come back. Please!"

The post was accompanied by a praying hands emoji and dozens of pictures of Hillary Brown, some with her husband, others with her children. In one picture of Hillary with her dog, Brown drew a heart around his wife's face with an arrow pointing to one of her breasts.

According to a Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office incident report, Brown called 9-1-1 from his Restore Plastic Surgery office in the Tiger Point area of Gulf Breeze around 4:15 p.m. on Nov. 21.

Hillary Browns dad opens up: Dr. Ben Brown performed multiple procedures on wife before her heart stopped

The call notes stated there was a female in cardiac arrest: "DR POSS OVER MEDICATED PATIENT."

"I interviewed the medical technician (name redacted) who advised the patient is Hillary E. Rogers Brown, who is currently Dr. Brown's spouse," a deputy wrote. "Hillary Brown was in the process of several surgical procedures when she experienced several seizures and then went into cardiac arrest."

The Santa Rosa Sheriff's Office Major Crimes Unit and the District One Medical Examiner are now investigating Hillary's death. The sheriff's office released a statement about the case Tuesday.

"In accordance with our policies and procedures, SRSO investigators frequently conduct death investigations when the death was unexpected or the death occurs under unusual circumstances," the statement read. "The cause and manner of death is pending the receipt of the autopsy protocol from the District One Medical Examiner's Office. The autopsy protocol typically takes several months as it usually is dependent on extensive laboratory and toxicology tests as well as the information gathered by our Major Crimes detectives concerning the circumstances of the death."

Hillary Brown's parents are searching for answers

Ellington has a lot of questions about his daughter's death, including what drugs she was given before the procedure.

"He said that the medicine they usually use, they were out of, so he used something different," Ellington said.

He also wants to know why there wasn't a crash cart, which holds life-saving equipment like oxygen and defibrillators at the office, along with properly trained medical staff who could have helped.

"With the amount of swelling in her brain that means her brain suffered from lack of oxygen for quite some time," Ellington said. "That's telling me that when you got, not an EMT, not a nurse, not even a doctor, but a surgeon who wasn't skilled enough in CPR that he could keep her oxygenated and keep oxygen to her brain until the EMT can get there. That just floors me that he falls out and they can't keep her, keep adequate oxygen in her because had that simple task (of giving her oxygen) been done, she'd still be with us."

Plastic surgery vs. cosmetic surgery: What are the differences, risks?

Who is Ben Brown?

Ben Brown is a board-certified plastic surgeon who owns Restore Plastic Surgery in Gulf Breeze. Ben Brown moved to Pensacola in 2015, where he reportedly worked as a plastic surgeon at Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery before opening his own practice in 2017.

According to his social media, Ben has two children from a prior marriage that ended in 2021, just months before he and Hillary began dating.

Who is Dr. Ben Brown? Who is Dr. Ben Brown, the Gulf Breeze doctor who performed fatal surgery on Hillary Brown?

Brown has attended three universities, according to his Facebook profile. He attended the University of Minnesota between 2001-2003 but did not receive a degree. Brown attended Tulane University between 2003 and 2005, receiving a Bachelor's Degree. He then attended medical school at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center between 2005 and 2009, earning his medical degree.

Brown specialized in plastic surgery during his residency at Georgetown University between 2009 and 2015, according to his practitioner profile on the Florida Department of Health website.

On his LinkedIn profile, Ben Brown said he worked as a resident physician in plastic and reconstructive surgery at MedStar Health between 2009 and 2015.

Who was Hillary Ellington Brown?

Hillary Ellington Brown was born in Mobile, Alabama, on Sept. 2, 1990. Her parents described her as being "full of fire and energy" since she was a girl.

She attended Oxford High School and graduated from North Delta in Batesville, Mississippi, where she pursued a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering at the University of Mississippi, according to her obituary.

She was also the mom to three young children, ages 4 to 8, from a previous marriage. Her parents and friends described her as a loving and devoted mother.

Her obituary said she was a "loving, talented, caring and giving person." She worked at Restore Plastic Surgery in Gulf Breeze with her husband, Ben, and their clients praised her kind and cheerful nature.

Ben and Hillary Brown had a 'volatile' relationship

Ben and Hillary Brown began dating in July 2021, according to his social media, just months after his former wife filed for divorce. The two married in July 2022.

Ellington said Hillary and Brown had a "volatile" relationship that sometimes blew hot then cold, but for the most part, Hillary enjoyed their life together, especially having her husband regularly perform plastic surgery procedures on her face and body.

In March, SRSO responded to a call at the couple's waterfront home in Tiger Point Village in "reference to a suicide." According to the report, Brown told dispatch his wife was "barely conscious and still unresponsive due to self-medication with an unknown amount of Valium."

Hillary Brown death investigation: Death of Gulf Breeze doctors wife following after-hours surgery leads to investigation

The deputy reported that Hillary admitted to taking Valium but denied wanting to hurt herself, saying she wanted her husband to know "she was serious."

Hillary was evaluated by EMS and released without treatment, but the officer determined Hillary met the criteria for Baker Act and she was taken to the hospital for evaluation.

Ellington and Hillary's friends say she was a loving, devoted mother who didn't want to put her children through another divorce, but she was not one to "back down from a challenge" even when they said she sometimes struggled with the "intense" relationship she had with Brown.

Ben Brown and Restore Plastic Surgery have a history of allegations

Brown has faced a number of complaints and allegations of botched procedures. There is an ongoing medical malpractice lawsuit pending against him for negligence. The plaintiff alleged she suffered a serious infection and debilitating complications after Brown used "foreign materials" during a breast reconstruction surgery without her consent.

Numerous other women have come forward to the News Journal with similar complaints, both on and off the record. According to Brown's practitioner profile on the Florida Department of Health's website, his license is clear and active and says he "has not had any final disciplinary action taken against him within the last 10 years by a licensing agency."

The News Journal reached out to Brown and the Florida Department of Health for comment, but messages have not been returned.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Hillary Brown death at Restore Plastic Surgery: What we know so far
A snap of cold weather has prompted Hillsborough County officials to open cold weather shelters on Wednesday night. Its the second jolt of chilly weather so far this fall to prompt shelter openings.

The program is meant to serve the homeless and those who live in homes without adequate heat.

According to Spectrum Bay News 9, low temperatures in the overnight hours early Thursday morning are expected to plunge into the 40s, though some areas of the northern Tampa Bay area could slip into the 30s. Its expected to be breezy today and officials noted that wind chill temps could fall below 40 in parts of Hillsborough as well.

Shelter organizers are expecting high demand with limited capacity, so residents who need a warm place to stay are encouraged to use all resources like friends and family as a first option, a news release from the county states.

All shelters will take in guests from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. unless they reach capacity prior to that time. They shelters are:

Amazing Love Ministries, 3304 E. Columbus Dr., Tampa

Church of God of Prophecy Hyde Park, 107 S. Oregon Ave., Tampa

Greater New Hope Church Anointed Ministries (Prayer Retreat Center), 2104 Mud Lake Rd., Plant City

Hyde Park United Methodist Church, 500 W. Platt St., Tampa

Legacy Church, 3416 N. 15th St., Tampa

New Life Church (hosted by Unbroken Dreams, Inc.,  Pet Friendly), 8216 N. 13th St., Tampa

Tampa Bay Mission of Hope, 212 S. St. Cloud Ave. Building A, Valrico

All shelters are for adults only. Metropolitan Ministries is offering a limited number of single-night motel vouchers on a first-come, first-served basis for families with minor children. Pre-registration is required by calling (813) 209-1176 before 5 p.m.

Organizations interested in hosting a cold weather shelter this season can contact Julie Watkinson, Community Relations Coordinator, at WatkinsonJ@HCFLGov.net for more information.

Pinellas and Pasco counties had not announced plans to open shelters as of Tuesday mid-morning.

The cold spell is expected to lift as the week progresses. Though the high Wednesday will only be in the mid-60s, Thursdays high will reach around 70 and overnight lows wont be quite as cold: Expect the mid-50s with some northern locations dropping into the 40s.

Friday will be warmer still, with a high in the mid-70s. Saturdays high will climb into the low 80s, according to Spectrum Bay News 9.

No rain is expected through the rest of the week, though there is a 10% chance on Saturday and a 60% chance on Sunday.
Anyone who's struggled with infertility knows that getting treatments can be expensive.

Insurance often doesn't cover artificial insemination, a procedure that places sperm into the cervix or uterus during ovulation. It can cost anywhere from $300 to $3,000 each round, and the first try often fails.

Other treatments, like in vitro fertilization (IVF) can be even more expensive, running between $15,000 and $30,000 for a singular round.

That means that many people who need such treatments to reproduce often can't afford them. But that could be changing with the introduction of a new at-home artificial insemination kit.

This week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration cleared the kit for use by consumers. Here's what you need to know, including who makes the kit and how much it costs.

Mosie Baby Kit first at-home insemination product cleared by FDA

Unusual birth: 70-year-old woman gives birth to twins in Uganda thanks to IVF, health officials say

One in six people globally struggle with infertility, according to the World Health Organization.

The new kit was made by Mosie Baby, an Austin, Texas-based company that describes itself as "a pioneering at-home fertility care company."

They have made the Mosie Baby Kit, which is now the first and only FDA-cleared over-the-counter option for intravaginal insemination. According to the company, the kit was found to be "substantially equivalent" to a clinically administered insemination.

The kit is designed for use with either a fresh or cryogenically frozen donor semen sample, meaning those attempting to conceive have a few options for a sperm source and could potentially use an outside donor, according to a company news release on Wednesday.

The kit comes with two syringes and two cups for semen collection. The syringes are described as having a "barrel-free tip and slit opening," which allows for a more direct transfer with minimal waste.

How much do the kits cost and where can I buy them?

The kits cost $129.99 and are being sold on the company's website, and at cvs.com, walmart.com and optumstore.com.

"Nearly 10 years ago, my husband and I were devastated by a diagnosis of unexplained infertility and were desperate for options that were safe, financially accessible and easy to use at home," said Mosie Baby co-founder and CEO Maureen Brown in a statement.

She said that she and her husband first invented the kit in 2014 and that it has since helped more than 100,000 people conceive. USA TODAY was unable to independently verify that statement.

What is artificial insemination?

Artificial insemination is often an expensive option not covered by health insurance.

One in six people is affected by infertility globally, and the rates of infertility are generally consistent among high, low- and middle-income countries, according to the World Health Organization.

Infertility doesn't discriminate, but access to treatment certainly does.

Put simply, infertility is defined as an inability to reproduce by natural means. Roughly 20% of heterosexual, cisgender women in the U.S. struggle to get pregnant after one year of trying, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This can be caused by cisgender male factors, such as low sperm count or the ability of sperm to move efficiently, or female factors, such as ovulation disorders or uterine abnormalities.

Other types of people turn to artificial insemination to produce pregnancy as well, such as same-sex couples, single parents by choice or transgender people. Whatever the reason, artificial insemination is a common first step in trying to conceive with medical assistance.

A Michigan woman holds up the pregnancy test her surrogate took after a successful in vitro fertilization at her home on Nov. 16, 2023.

Artificial insemination makes the natural process more direct, placing semen straight into the vagina, cervix, or uterus close to or during ovulation to maximize the chances of fertilization.

There are a few types of artificial insemination available to people trying to conceive. Intracervical insemination is performed in a healthcare setting and entails injecting sperm into the cervix using a syringe. Intrauterine insemination is also performed in a clinical setting and is done by putting sperm into the uterine cavity and then performing sperm washing, which concentrates the sample.

At-home insemination was also an option before the Mosie Baby Kit, but there was no specific over-the-counter kit that was FDA-cleared. With this method, fresh or frozen sperm can be placed at the part of the cervix that attaches to the vagina using a syringe or cup, at home without the help of a professional.

Each method has its own success rate, advantages and drawbacks. Many individual factors go into successful conception but with more affordable at-home options, more people might be able to give it a try.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: For first time ever, FDA clears at-home artificial insemination kit
A Holyrood spokesman said it prohibits the display of banners, flags or political slogans - Emily Macinnes/Bloomberg

The Scottish parliament has been accused of discriminatory harassment after security guards confiscated a badge from a feminist attending a committee inquiry.

The woman was asked by a female guard to remove the small badge from her lapel, which bore the Venus symbol and two Xs representing female chromosomes.

After challenging the request, she said a male guard showed her a picture of the same badge on his phone and told her it was banned because it represented a lobbying organisation.

The badge is sold by feminist group For Women Scotland, which campaigns for sex-based rights and has been an outspoken critic of Nicola Sturgeons self-ID gender reforms.

The woman was given a receipt for the badge and told she could collect it on her way out. She was then allowed to proceed to a committee inquiry examining how the sex of the accused should be recorded in rape cases.

The woman, who did not want to be named, last year received an apology from Holyrood after being ejected for wearing a scarf in suffragette colours. She described the latest incident as quite humiliating but added theyre not going to stop me.

Russell Findlay, the Scottish Tories shadow justice secretary, said the reasons given for confiscating the badge sound like nonsense - SST/Alamy

The Scottish Parliament said its visitor behaviour policy prohibits the display of banners, flags or political slogans, including on clothing and accessories.

Universally recognised symbol

But feminists took to social media to point out that the Venus symbol was universally recognised as the biological sign of the female sex.

They also highlighted pictures of MSPs and lobbyists being allowed to wear pro-LGBT symbols. Another visitor the same morning was allowed to keep her Labour Womens Declaration badge, they said.

Joanna Cherry KC, the SNP MP for Edinburgh South West, tweeted: This is beyond farcical. Its very serious.

I want to know why a woman visiting her parliament is being repeatedly targeted for her clothing and badges in a way it seems others are not. Looks very like discriminatory harassment.

Russell Findlay, the Scottish Tories shadow justice secretary, said: The reasons given sound like nonsense. After the farce of a confiscated scarf in suffragette colours during the SNPs gender self-ID bill debate, they should know better.

Joanna Cherry KC, the SNP MP for Edinburgh South West, said the incident was beyond farcical... its very serious - Andrew Milligan/PA

Theyre not going to stop me

The woman, who described herself as a middle-aged scientist, told The Herald the incident was farcical and tiring.

She said: Im sick of being approached by security. Im not doing anything wrong. Im coming to watch a democratic debate. It can be quite humiliating being approached like this but theyre not going to stop me.

She added: Its not doing anything to encourage women to engage in the democratic process. The way I have been treated in the last two years has been pretty damn poor.

In Nov 2022 she was ejected by security from a Holyrood committee after refusing to remove a scarf in the purple, white and green of the suffragette movement.

She had been trying to watch an evidence session by the parliaments equalities committee examining the gender self-ID legislation. Alison Johnstone, the presiding officer, was later forced to apologise for the error.

Asked about the new incident, a Scottish parliament spokesman said: A member of the public was asked to remove a badge in line with the parliaments visitor behaviour policy which prohibits the display of banners, flags or political slogans, including on clothing and accessories.

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.
Pakistani Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar (2nd R, front) and Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong (1st R, front) attend the inauguration ceremony of the China-aided desalination project and upgrade of the Pak-China Friendship Hospital in Gwadar, Pakistan, Dec. 4, 2023. The China-donated seawater desalination plant will resolve the water shortage in Gwadar district of Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province, which has been the biggest problem in the area for many years, Pakistani Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar has said. (Xinhua/Tang Binhui)

GWADAR, Pakistan, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- The China-donated seawater desalination plant will resolve the water shortage in Gwadar district of Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province, which has been the biggest problem in the area for many years, Pakistani Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar has said.

The water shortage has been the largest hurdle in the development of Gwadar district, the prime minister said on Monday while addressing the inauguration ceremony of the China-aided desalination project and upgrade of the Pak-China Friendship Hospital in Gwadar.

He said there were many problems in the area related to the lack of drinking water, adding that Gwadar is of central importance to Balochistan.

The desalination plant will provide 5,000 tons per day of potable water.

Additionally, the China-donated Pak-China Friendship Hospital has been upgraded from having 50 beds to 150 beds with necessary medical equipment, while the hospital has emergency department, outpatient department, inpatient department, medical technology department, and administration and supporting system.

Pakistan and China should work together to build Gwadar into a high-quality port, regional trade center and connectivity hub, the prime minister added.

On the occasion, Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong said that China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners.

Both countries have actively promoted the construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and worked hard to bring the benefits of the CPEC development to all the people of Pakistan, the ambassador said, adding that the Gwadar port has made great progress in its construction and operation as a leading project of the CPEC.

China is willing to work with Pakistan to coordinate on security and development and advance the high-quality construction of the CPEC, the Chinese envoy said.

Launched in 2013, the CPEC, a flagship project of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, is a corridor linking the Gwadar port in southwestern Pakistan with Kashgar in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, which highlights energy, transport and industrial cooperation. 
HOUSTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN)  An armed Dollar General robbery took an even more concerning turn after investigators discovered the makings of explosives in the suspects basement.

PREVIOUS: Armed robbery suspect arrested in Houston County; guns, money, explosives recovered

What started out as a less than $200 robbery from the store on Grays Crossing led to the arrest of 19-year-old Nathan Whitford.

PHOTO: Houston County Sheriffs Office





According to Houston County Sheriff Kevin Sugg, Whitford recently moved to the area from Florida to live with his mother. In the basement, Sugg said investigators found not only a homemade grenade, but also multiple guns, including one reported stolen out of Florida. In addition, they found BBs, black powder, and a ballistic vest.

Investigators from the Erin Police Department were also of major help in this case, along with a Tennessee Highway Patrol helicopter that helped locate him. By the time they caught up to Whitford, the sheriff said he had already shaved and cut his hair. He also left a bit of a paper trail as Sugg said some of the cash Whitford had stolen fell out of his pocket along the path where they found him.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee

The actual body armor that we found that was his, he had shot it. I believe it was four times to see if it would withstand the 223 and 9 mil, Sugg said. Im just glad that we got this stuff; I dont know how much of this stuff that he has been testingwe wont never know what his real intention of having this stuff was, but in my mind I could see it being used against law enforcement or the public or to aid in other robberies.

Law enforcement officials believe Whitford is also tied to an October robbery. Currently, hes being held in the Houston County Jail on a $712,500 bond and is scheduled to appear in court Thursday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
by Lawrence Wong, from Singapore

Tomorrow I will co-chair the 19th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) with PRC Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang in Tianjin. The JCBC is the apex bilateral platform that reviews and sets the strategic direction for cooperation between Singapore and China.

Over the decades, our two countries have built a broad and deep partnership. We have collaborated through the different phases of our respective developmental journeys, via our three Government-to-Government projects (the Suzhou Industrial Park, the Tianjin Eco-City, and the Chongqing Connectivity Initiative); our state-level cooperation project, the Guangzhou Knowledge City; as well as our eight provincial business councils. In March this year, we took another major step forward by upgrading our relations to an "All-Round High-Quality Future-Oriented Partnership" under the guidance of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and President Xi Jinping.

I have personally contributed to several of these cooperation projects. As Minister for National Development, I worked on the Tianjin Eco-City from 2015 to 2020. I also co-chaired the Singapore-Shanghai Comprehensive Cooperation Council from 2019 to 2022. I have seen first-hand the tremendous drive and energies of the Chinese people to develop their economy and society, and the good working relationship between Singapore and Chinese officials. Now, as co-Chair of the JCBC, I aim to chart the next phase of our relations together with Vice Premier Ding.

The 19th JCBC meeting will be held amidst an increasingly turbulent and uncertain world. We face headwinds in the global economic outlook as well as the looming threat of climate change. There is much that Singapore and China can do to tackle these common challenges together, and to sustain high-quality growth and prosperity for our peoples. This will require us to renew and expand our economic links, reimagine our industries, and reinforce our close ties.

RENEW AND EXPAND OUR ECONOMIC LINKS

For the past ten years, Singapore has been China's largest foreign investor while China has been Singapore's largest merchandise trading partner. These close economic ties, built up over the decades, reflect our confidence in each other. We should continue to find ways to renew and expand our economic links. We are pursuing more open and transparent rules for cross-border investment and trade in services through the China-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (CSFTA). Through the Chongqing Connectivity Initiative -- New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, we are also promoting stronger regional economic integration between Western China and Southeast Asia.

These linkages form a strong base for us to build on. We can strengthen our food security and supply chain resilience, as well as facilitate greater capital market flows and cross-border payments between China and Southeast Asia.

REIMAGINE OUR INDUSTRIES

We should also work together to reimagine our industries so that they remain competitive and future-ready, especially in new and emerging areas such as the green and digital economy, and other high-tech areas.

Singapore and China have been working together on sustainability for many years. In fact, we started collaborating in this area long before sustainability gained traction on the global agenda. This year is the 15th anniversary of the Tianjin Eco-City. It has set new standards for sustainable development and eco-friendly urbanisation. We should draw valuable lessons from this project to promote resource-efficient and low-carbon urban solutions to other cities in China and across the region. There are also good opportunities in other aspects of sustainability, such as in green energy, finance, transport, and logistics.

There is scope for us to similarly deepen our collaboration in the digital economy. China is a global digital leader, with its digital economy making up a sizable portion of its GDP. Singapore is an ideal launchpad to Southeast Asia's digital economy, which is one of the fastest growing in the world. We can therefore be effective partners on digital standards and policies to facilitate cross-border commercial data flows and digital trade, and develop smart city solutions, including through the Singapore-China (Shenzhen) Smart City Initiative.

We should leverage our mutual strengths in other emerging industries too. The Suzhou Industrial Park has been pursuing high-tech industries such as advanced manufacturing, biomedicine, and nanotechnology. The 30th anniversary of the Suzhou Industrial Park next year is an opportunity to take our collaboration to the next level.

REINFORCE OUR CLOSE TIES

Finally, even as we forge new economic links and work together to reimagine our industries, we should reinforce our people-to-people exchanges across all levels. Be it regular exchanges between our officials and students, or facilitating cross-border tourism, these have all contributed to the deep sense of mutual understanding and trust between our peoples. There is more that we can do to foster such close ties, including strengthening our exchanges in tourism, education, research, training, and health.

CONCLUSION

Singapore and China share a close and multi-faceted relationship. I look forward to working with my fellow co-Chair to advance our bilateral cooperation in the areas I have highlighted and more. Despite our differences in size, history and context, our countries share many common aspirations and challenges. Working together, I am confident we can continue to contribute to each other's growth, catalyse new opportunities in emerging areas, and forge a better future for both our peoples.

Editor's note: Lawrence Wong is Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author's and do not necessarily reflect the positions of Xinhua News Agency.
An ambitious state law that has the goal of making it easier to build much-needed housing is about to reach its first major deadline.

Its called the MBTA Communities Law.

The 177 communities that have some form of T service, either in their community or adjacent to it, are mandated to create zones to allow for multi-family housing to be built.

First up are the so-called Rapid Transit Communities. These are communities that are serviced by the Red, Green, Orange or Blue lines.

Braintree, Brookline, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Malden, Medford, Milton, Newton, Quincy, Revere, and Somerville will all have to file plans with the state by the end of the month.

The plans need to outline zoning changes that will allow multi-family housing to be built by right by a developer proximate to public transportation.

Its an incredibly powerful tool to meet our goals for housing, transportation, sustainability, diversity, and inclusion, said Lily Linke, MBTA Communities Engagement Manager for CHAPA, a Boston-based non-profit that advocates for affordable housing.

The goal is to make it easier to expand the regions housing supply which will hopefully stabilize prices.

Our goal is 200,000 new homes by 2030, Linke said. Even families earning a solid, good, middle-class income just cant afford housing around here.

Brookline is the first rapid transit community to approve a plan. They changed zoning regulations along Harvard Street to allow for taller residential buildings with first-floor retail options.

Finding consensus faced some delays in Newton.

Housing in Newton, like other suburbs around Boston is expensive. Its hard to find homes. Its hard to find condos, said David Micley, a city councilor-elect.

A plan focused on expanding housing in 13 Newton villages drew heated opposition, questioning if it was more ambitious than it needed to be.

The final plan focuses on adding zones to six neighborhoods.

There certainly is a desire to keep the feeling of Newton being a suburb. Trees, green space. All the things that make us love Newton, said Micley.

This was a big topic in Newtons recent elections.

Micley, who supports some of the zoning changes, will be one of the new faces coming to the city council.

I think the biggest areas of pushback, the biggest areas of concern, were just on high do we allow development to go by right.

Supporters of the law say that eliminating by right development would take the teeth out of it and would leave communities and developers back where they started, still struggling to work around old zoning laws.

It became clear that zoning is not the only step, but if you dont take care of that step, we cant get to any of the things afterward, Linke said.

Planners in Lexington couldnt agree more.

With just two bus lines running through the town, they had more time to develop a plan than the rapid transit communities. Still, they got their plan done way ahead of time.

Housing had been top of mind in the community for a number of years, explained Bob Peters, chair of the planning board.

Town planner Abby McCabe added, We think that zoning is a good first step to keeping our employers, keeping our residents, having people grow up here and being able to stay and live here.

The MBTA Communities law is primarily focused on increasing the supply of housing, particularly for families.

There are only minimal incentives to create many affordable units.

Commuter rail communities are next, having to file their plans by December 2024.

Penalties for non-compliance can lead to suspension of state grants for transportation and community development projects.

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(Bloomberg) -- Cracks are beginning to emerge in Indias opposition alliance after Prime Minister Narendra Modis party routed its main rival in recent state elections, putting him in a strong position to stay in power for another five years.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Sundays unexpected results gave Modis Bharatiya Janata Party a clear mandate to govern three out of five states that voted in November. Indias main opposition party, the Indian National Congress, won just one.

Thats prompted some public displeasure among an alliance of more than two dozen opposition parties that was created with one purpose in mind: to defeat the electoral juggernaut of the prime minister and his party in the national vote in 2024.

The Congress party, whose public face is Rahul Gandhi, had initially organized a meeting of senior opposition leaders for Wednesday to discuss strategy, but abruptly rescheduled after several senior members said they wouldnt be available. Mamata Bannerjee from the Trinamool Congress said publicly she had other duties to attend to as chief minister of West Bengal state. She said shed attend the alliance blocs next meeting whenever its decided, local media reported.

Opposition leaders have also raised questions about the Congress partys decision to forgo the alliance partnership in the state elections. Omar Abdullah, former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir and a leader of a regional party in the state, said Congress only remembered the I.N.D.I.A. alliance after three months.

Another senior opposition member, who asked not to be identified in order to speak frankly, said Congress had tried to go it alone in the state elections to win more bargaining power in the opposition alliance, but that approach has failed.

Hindi Heartland

Sundays results raises doubts over whether the Congress-led alliance can unseat Indias most popular politician in next years elections.

The Congress was expected to win two or more states, said Neerja Chowdhury, an author and political columnist. Instead its been downed to one and completely a rout in the Hindi heartland, which is where it wanted to revive and has to revive in order to give a fight to the BJP.

Indian politics has been dominated by Modi and the BJP for close to a decade with a mixed rhetoric of Hindu nationalism and economic development. Modis government has targeted low-income voters, especially women, by providing them with substantial cash-handouts and subsidies.

The state election results showed that while Congress increased its share of the vote in the southern state of Telangana, so did the BJP. In Chhattisgarh, the ruling party won 39 more seats than it did in the previous election, taking votes away from Congress as well as regional parties.

Opposition Leverage

Sanjay Raut, a senior regional party leader, said some party leaders had grievances over the Congresss strategy of contesting the state elections on its own. But he said the Indian alliance is still strong and has their support.

Recent events might actually allow allied parties more leverage, according to Chowdhury.

This may make the process of seat adjustments easier than wouldve been the case had the Congress won in several states, she said.

Gandhi said Sunday that the battle of ideology will continue as he acknowledged the partys defeat.

For the opposition, the main roadblock is the prime minister. A powerhouse in himself, Modi hopscotched across the states for an entire month and asked voters to trust him and believe in the guarantee of a better life promised by him.

Modi has projected himself as the only leader who has been able to win India a seat at the global table and as someone who can conjure up a bright future for 1.4 billion people.

--With assistance from Eltaf Najafizada.

(Updates with comments from opposition leader.)

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Patients and their attendants are seen inside Apollo hospital in New Delhi

By Rishika Sadam and Aditya Kalra

NEW DELHI/HYDERABAD (Reuters) -The New Delhi city government is investigating an Apollo hospital, part of India's largest private hospital chain, after a media report linked it to the illegal sale by Myanmar nationals of their kidneys for organ transplants.

The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), which falls under the federal health ministry, had written to the Delhi authorities following a report in Britain's Telegraph that accused Apollo of being involved in a "cash for kidneys" scandal involving villagers from Myanmar.

The report said young villagers from Myanmar were being flown to its Delhi hospital and enticed to sell their kidneys to rich Burmese patients.

Apollo Hospitals did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

In the report, based on an undercover reporter's conversations with agents and Apollo officials from Myanmar, Apollo Hospitals said it was "completely shocked" by the newspaper's findings and would launch an internal investigation.

"Any suggestion of our wilful complicity or implicit sanctioning of any illegal activities relating to organ transplants is wholly denied," the report quoted Apollo saying.

NOTTO Director Anil Kumar told Reuters on Wednesday: "This issue requires a deep investigation and concrete evidence before deciding on the next course of action."

Delhi Health Secretary S B Deepak Kumar told Reuters the city was initiating a probe following an order from the federal government.

Indraprastha Medical Corp, an associate of Apollo which manages its two hospitals in the capital region of Delhi, said it had initiated an inquiry into the matter and called the allegations against it "absolutely false, ill-informed and misleading".

Indraprastha Medical will assist and provide all relevant information and data to authorities when asked, though it was yet to receive any indication from the authorities that the investigation was under way, a source with direct knowledge of the matter said.

The Myanmar government did not respond to Reuters request for comment.

Chennai-based chain Apollo, which runs over 70 hospitals across India, performed 1,641 solid organ transplants in 2022, according to company data. The hospital also treats foreign patients who fly into India.

The Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in Sarita Vihar in the southeast of the city which is cited in the Telegraph report is one of New Delhi's most renowned and popular private hospitals.

(Reporting by Aditya Kalra and Rishika Sadam; Editing by Miral Fahmy and Alison Williams)
Photos confirm that India is the first known export customer for the Israeli-made Rampage missile , an air-launched, precision-guided, high-speed weapon, which is an adapted guided artillery rocket, similar to the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) . New Delhis acquisition of the Rampage continues a close military relationship between the two countries, especially when it comes to missile sales, and provides India with a powerful weapon that would appear to have particular utility for future border confrontations with neighboring Pakistan, but also contingencies involving China .

Two photos that have appeared on social media confirm that the Rampage missile is now in the hands of the Indian Navy, specifically on its Russian-made MiG-29K/KUB Fulcrum carrier-based fighters.

U.S. Navy

One of these photos  seen in the tweet embedded below  shows an example of the missile carried on a special pylon on the inboard underwing station on one of the MiGs. The pylon and missile have calibration markings of the kind used for weapons release trials.

https://twitter.com/NewsIADN/status/1731338380468961527

The other photo, shown below, dates back to at least August this year. It shows Indian Navy personnel examining a Rampage missile in a hangar, alongside a visiting delegation from the United Arab Emirates, with more MiG-29K/KUB jets arranged behind.

Indian Navy

Considering how long at least one of these photos has now been in circulation, its surprising, to say the least, that the Indian acquisition of the Rampage, and efforts to integrate it on the Russian-made fighter, has not been more widely reported.

First breaking cover back in 2018, the Rampage was developed by Israeli Military Industries Systems, or IMI Systems, in cooperation with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), as an air-launched derivative of IMI Systems ground-launched Extended Range Artillery guided artillery rocket, or EXTRA. Development was likely accelerated by what appear to be only minimal changes to the weapons external design for the air-launched role, primarily the addition of a reinforced section of the center body that includes the attachment lugs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1mLk4wQcZO8

Said to be able to hit targets more than 90 miles away, the Rampage has been identified as a likely weapon for the Israeli Air Force, especially bearing in mind that countrys cross-border campaign against Iranian-backed militants. Here, a standoff capability is of great importance, all the more so when also dealing with more complex air defense systems, as in Syria , for example. While there have been rumors of Israeli use of the Rampage, this remains unconfirmed and its clear also that the weapon is being very squarely aimed at export customers, too.

At this point, India is the first confirmed operator of the Rampage, and it would seem to offer several advantages over other long-range air-launched weapons in the Indian armory.

Using a GPS-assisted inertial navigation system (INS) guidance system, the Rampage is said to be effective even against hostile jamming or other efforts to interfere with GPS receivers . Bearing in mind the kinds of high-tech adversaries that India might find itself fighting against  chiefly China and Pakistan  electronic warfare attacks are a very likely prospect in future conflict scenarios.

A model of the Rampage missile (bottom) displayed during the Farnborough International Airshow in England in July 2022. Arranged above it are the Guided Advanced Tactical Rocket (GATR), Range Extension and Smart Tail (REST) kit, and the Lizard precision-guided bomb. Photo by John Keeble/Getty Images

With its range of 90 miles or more, the Rampage can be launched outside the engagement envelopes of many short- and medium-range air defense systems, dramatically improving the survivability of the host aircraft.

At the same time, thanks to its rocket motor, the Rampage is a notably fast weapon, making it better suited to striking time-sensitive targets, which might even include mobile air defense systems or mobile ballistic missiles, providing their coordinates can be established in the required timeframe. According to IMI Systems, the Rampage can hit a target out to its maximum range in as little as five minutes.

As an air-launched version of a ground-launched ballistic weapon, the Rampage is also likely cheaper than more traditional air-launched standoff weapons, like the Israeli-made Crystal Maze standoff missile, and the French-supplied SCALP-EG cruise missile, both also used by India.

https://twitter.com/zone5aviation/status/1356224236864503809

The integration of the Rampage on the MiG-29K/KUB should also not be a big issue, especially important for India and its varied fleet of combat jets of British , French, Russian, and domestic manufacture. When it was first announced, IMI Systems suggested that the weapon was suitable for integration on various U.S.-made and European jets, as well as the MiG-29. More recently, there have been unconfirmed reports that the United Kingdom has also been evaluating the Rampage, for possible integration on the Eurofighter Typhoon .

The 2019 Balakot confrontation provides one possible example of the kind of contingency in which India might call upon the Rampage. In February 2019, the Indian Air Force conducted a bombing raid against an alleged terrorist training camp across the border in Pakistan. Analysis of post-strike imagery suggested that there may have been no damage to the target at all, or perhaps only limited superficial damage.

https://twitter.com/OfficialDGISPR/status/1100231826348617728

A day later, an Indian MiG-21 Bison fighter was shot down by Pakistan and its pilot taken prisoner . With its ability to deliver an airstrike at short notice and from a considerable standoff distance, the Rampage would seem to offer notable benefits in this kind of scenario, allowing targets to be hit inside Pakistan, even from within Indian airspace.

Part of the wreckage of the MiG-21 Bison, flown by Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, shot down during the Balakot confrontation in 2019. AP Photo/Abdul Razzaq

Since the MiG-29K/KUB can also operate from the decks of Indian Navy aircraft carriers , these aircraft can also launch the Rampage against targets without having to take off from known airfields. It would not, however, be well suited for use against warships, or other moving targets, maritime or otherwise.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gqmh9aex3Y

However, fixed targets such as command centers, communications nodes, military depots, airfields, and any other highvalue wellprotected objectives would be at risk from the Rampage. Hostile air defenses, such as surface-to-air missile sites, would also be key targets, with the missiles potentially being used in this way to clear a path for follow-on strikes. The potential to fit optional unitary or blast/fragmentation warheads would also increase the range of targets that could be attacked.

The Rampage is also suitable for use in urban scenarios, IMI Systems says. Since it comes down almost vertically onto its target and delivers a relatively small warhead, this reduces the chance of collateral damage and also the ability to hit targets around tall buildings.

The Indian Navy received a total of 45 MiG-29K/KUB fighters, ordered in two batches, although the type has suffered from well-publicized serviceability and maintenance issues, including a shortage of spare parts. With a view to long-term replacement of the Russian-made jet, New Delhi has already earmarked the Dassault Rafale M as its next carrier-based fighter.

Beyond the Indian Navys MiG-29K/KUB, there are unconfirmed reports that integration is also underway on the Indian Air Forces fleet of Su-30MKI Flanker multirole fighters, which make up the backbone of its combat fleet. The Indian Air Forces own MiG-29s would also appear to be very suitable candidates for the Rampage, especially once integration on their naval counterparts has been completed.

An Indian Air Force Su-30MKI fighter during the joint Garuda VII exercise at Jodhpur in the desert state of Rajasthan on November 8, 2022. Photo by EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP via Getty Images

Last month, details emerged of plans to arm Indian Air Force MiG-29s with a long-range standoff weapon (SoW), intending to integrate this within 12 months of a contract being signed for the related weapons racks. Interestingly, the requirement is described as providing a parallel capability to the Indian Navys own long-range standoff weapon, i.e. the Rampage.

Faced with powerful Chinese and Pakistani air defenses, including long-range surface-to-air missiles , the Rampage would appear to be a very useful lower-cost option to expand Indias air-launched standoff strike capability. It will be interesting to see which other Indian platforms it might be added to and whether more export customers emerge.

Contact the author: thomas@thedrive.com
Rep. Jim Banks speaks in Indianapolis on Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, during a town hall-style meeting to discuss PublicSquare, which dubs itself as an anti-woke shopping app. Rep. Jim Banks is seeking a U.S. Senate seat during next year's elections.

Indiana U.S. Rep. Jim Banks is partnering with an Ohio senator on a bill that would require universities to follow the Supreme Courts ruling earlier this year that struck down affirmative action.

The College Admissions Accountability Act would create an office to investigate reports of so-called discrimination in higher education admissions departments and establish a process for people to file allegations against admissions offices.

In a news release Tuesday, Banks, who's running for U.S. Senate, said the legislation would require universities to stop discriminating against applicants.

Universities should accept students based on merit and achievement, not the color of their skin, Banks said in the release. Race based admissions have divided our country further and we must pull the plug on this unjust social engineering once and for all.

Affirmative action decision: Supreme Court blocks use of affirmative action at Harvard, UNC in blow to diversity efforts

Republican U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance introduced the Senate version of the bill this week, which was referred to a committee that reviews education topics.

The Supreme Court in June ruled that Harvard and the University of North Carolinas use of race-based admissions policies violates the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment.

The decision was heavily criticized by liberal-leaning members of the court who said the action rolled back precedent and progress in diversifying campuses around the country.

USA Today contributed to this story.

Contact IndyStar's state government and politics reporter Brittany Carloni at brittany.carloni@indystar.com or 317-779-4468. Follow her on Twitter/X@CarloniBrittany.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana's Jim Banks proposes bill enforcing affirmative action ruling
A former U.S. ambassador was indicted Tuesday by a federal grand jury in Miami on charges of conspiring to act as a secret agent for Cuba over the span of a 40-year career in the State Department and private sector for the purpose of turning over classified information to the intelligence service in Havana.

Victor Manuel Rocha, 73, a former U.S. ambassador to Bolivia who was arrested Friday by FBI agents in Miami, is accused in the new indictment of conspiring as an agent for Cuba since 1981 to obtain sensitive U.S. government secrets and provide such information to agents or representatives of the Republic of Cuba.

The indictment, which expands upon a criminal complaint unsealed Monday, further accuses Rocha of using access to [classified] information for the benefit of Cuba and disclosing such information without authorization.

The 15-count indictment charges Rocha, who ended his government career as ambassador in 2002 but continued to work in the national-security field, with conspiracy to defraud the United States. Hes accused of failing to register as a foreign agent with the Justice Department, wire fraud stemming from his State Department pension and making false statements related to his U.S. passport applications. But while the 35-page indictment hits Rocha harder than an FBI criminal complaint made public earlier, it does not cite any particular overt act in the conspiracy accusing him of handing over classified materials to his Cuban intelligence handlers.

In other words, Rocha is not accused of committing espionage  though on Monday Attorney General Merrick Garland described him much like a spy, saying the unusual national security case exposes one of the highest-reaching and longest-lasting infiltrations of the United States government by a foreign agent.

Rochas defense attorney, Jacqueline Arango, who had a long career in the U.S. Attorneys Office before joining the Akerman law firm in Miami, did not respond to a request for comment. Her client is facing a detention hearing before Magistrate Judge Edwin Torres on Dece. 12, when prosecutors Jonathan Stratton and John Shipley plan to seek Rochas detention based on his multiple passports from the U.S. and Dominican Republic, ability to flee the country, and the seriousness of the charges against him.

An FBI affidavit filed with the criminal complaint says that the FBI received a tip in November 2022 that Rocha had been working as a covert agent for Cuba. The indictment elaborated on that allegation, saying that the bureau discovered that Rocha first pledged his loyalty to the Cuban intelligence service in 1973 when he was living in Chile and elsewhere. At that time, the indictment says, Rocha became a great friend of the Cuban General Directorate of Intelligence and that he forged his relationship as covert agent when he started working for State Department in 1981  three years after the Colombian native was naturalized as a U.S. citizen and had earned degrees from Yale, Harvard and Georgetown universities.

Like the affidavit, the indictment alleges that an FBI undercover employee posing as a covert Cuban General Directorate of Intelligence representative was able to approach Rocha through a WhatsApp text and then spoke with him by phone about his past relationship with Cuba and how Rocha could be helpful with a problem at the Cuban embassy in the Dominican Republic. Rocha agreed to meet with the FBI undercover employee during a series of video-recorded meetings in Miami over the past year in which the former diplomat repeatedly admitted his decades of work for Cuba that spanned 40 years.

Throughout the meetings in Miami, Rocha behaved as a Cuban agent, consistently referring to the United States as the enemy, and using the term we to describe himself and Cuba, according to the indictment. Rocha also praised the late Fidel Castro as the Comandante, and referred to his contacts in Cuban intelligence as his companeros (comrades) and to the Cuban intelligence services as the Direccion.

Rocha also revealed that he took his last trip to Cuba in 2016 or 2017, when he traveled with his Dominican Republic passport instead of his U.S. passport via Panama to Havana. From Panama ... I entered ... as a Dominican, he told the FBI undercover employee.
The inmate who stabbed Paul Flores, the convicted killer of Kristin Smart, has been charged with attempted murder and assault, according to a news release from the Fresno County District Attorneys Office.

On Aug. 23, Flores, 46, was sent to the hospital in serious condition after he was stabbed in the neck in the Pleasant Valley State Prison yard in Coalinga.

Flores was transferred from North Kern State Prison earlier that month after he was sentenced in March to 25 years to life for Smarts murder.

Correctional staff saw Flores fall to the ground around 10 a.m. that morning. Jason Budrow, 43, was found nearby with a manufactured weapon, the corrections department said. He is suspected of the attempted murder of Flores.

The Fresno County District Attorneys Office charged Budrow with four felonies: attempted murder, assault by an inmate serving a life sentence, assault with a deadly weapon by an inmate, and possession of an inmate manufactured weapon.

The attempted murder charge carries two enhancements for use of a deadly weapon and great bodily injury. The two assault charges also carry great bodily injury enhancements.

Flores condition improved to fair by the next day, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation said, and he was transferred back to the prison.

The Fresno District Attorneys Office said Budrow slashed Flores neck with the manufactured weapon. Harold Mesick, Flores attorney, previously told The Tribune Flores was cut or stabbed on the side of the neck  not the throat, as some reports said.

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.

Kibbe 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.

In a letter sent to the San Jose Mercury News, Budrow admitted to killing Kibbe as punishment for the I-5 Stranglers murders.

CDCR and the Fresno County District Attorneys Office did not disclose whether they believe Budrow had a motive for the alleged attack on Flores.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, holds talks with Foreign Minister of Angola Tete Antonio in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Yan Yan)

BEIJING, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Foreign Minister of Angola Tete Antonio in Beijing on Wednesday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-Angola relations have maintained a strong momentum of development with fruitful results in practical cooperation, which has brought tangible benefits to the two peoples, provided an important boost to Angola's development and set an example for South-South cooperation.

China is willing to share with Angola the experience of development and opportunities in the Chinese market, expand practical cooperation on infrastructure, digital economy, clean energy, health care and food security, deepen people-to-people exchanges, and consolidate the popular foundation of China-Angola friendship, said Wang.

Wang also expressed China's willingness to strengthen coordination on multilateral platforms with Angola, advance the mechanism building of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, build a closer China-Africa community with a shared future, jointly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, and promote the development of the international order in a more just and reasonable direction.

Antonio said that Angola will stick to the one-China principle and support China in safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Bilateral cooperation between the two countries is mutually beneficial, Antonio said, adding that Angola welcomes Chinese investment, and is willing to continue close communication and coordination with China. 

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, holds talks with Foreign Minister of Angola Tete Antonio in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Yan Yan)
Edwin Markham Middle School in the Watts community opened one of LAUSDs first parent centers last month, part of a larger plan to add over 300 centers in schools across the district.

The center offers services to help parents support children through school, along with career workshops and financial stipends.

As the district introduces more digital tools and platforms, such as the parent portal and the AI chatbot program Ed, it can be challenging for parents to adjust to new technologies. The centers, especially in elementary schools, will target struggling parents early.

Support The 74's year-end campaign. Make a tax-exempt donation now.

We like to explain the resources we have for parents early to get them involved, said LA Unifieds chief facilities officer Krisztina Tokes. It just makes sense.

A new parent center at Edwin Markham Middle School will offer an opportunity for parents to become better educated and more involved in their childrens education (Charles Hastings)

At the new centers opening, parents were assured they had a home at the school and were encouraged to take advantage of the resources offered. Besides workshops to help promote career, financial, and child-rearing success, parents will also have access to laptops on loan as well as Change Reaction, a new program helping struggling families make ends meet with charitable donations.

This is a safe place for students, but the support of parents matters, said Lenya Crowell who helped found the parent center. We have got to keep our parents updated.

LAUSD engagement officer Antonio Plascencia Jr. said bilingual programs are offered through parent centers across the district; and that remote sessions would also be offered.

The new parent center at Edwin Markham Middle School is one of 300 planned centers that will offer an opportunity for parents to become involved in their childrens education (Charles Hastings)

Every research study that we have seen from over 50 years shows that when we engage and empower our students and our families we accelerate outcomes, said Plascencia.

Mexican-born Markham Middle School principal Juana Yumi Kawasaki described how a parent center in the community where she grew up helped her parents acclimate to life in the United States and acquire the know-how to help Kawasaki be successful later in life.

I am who I am because of the parent center, Kawasaki said.

This article is part of a collaboration between The 74 and the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism.
A lot of things happened. Here are some of the things. This is TPMs Morning Memo. Sign up for the email version.

Showing Exactly Who He Is

This is as remarkable a window into the House GOP as anything weve seen since Jan. 6, 2021.

Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), eager to release more Jan. 6 surveillance footage as fodder for right-wing revisionism, says it will take some time because they need to blur the faces of people caught on the videos  to prevent the Justice Department from prosecuting them:

Johnson: We have to blur some of the faces of persons who participated in the events of that day because we dont want them to be retaliated against and to be charged by the DOJ pic.twitter.com/pQ6fSlAp9W  Acyn (@Acyn) December 5, 2023

The reaction was swift and fierce:

Its an open admission in front of cameras said out loud to the nation that House Republicansthe senior House Republicanis actively running cover for criminal insurrectionists, says @chrislhayes on Mike Johnson vowing to blur Jan. 6 footage to protect rioters. pic.twitter.com/FJGdLyohs9  All In with Chris Hayes (@allinwithchris) December 6, 2023

Speaker Mike Johnson is blurring faces of rioters in Jan 6th footage! Cool! pic.twitter.com/2JRCLIxyvl  Jimmy Kimmel Live (@JimmyKimmelLive) December 6, 2023

One point worth adding here: The FBI has had access to the Jan. 6 surveillance footage for years now, so Johnsons reasoning is as flawed as it is dangerous.

Now Its Getting Good

Since the indictment of Donald Trump last August for trying to overturn the 2020 election, Special Counsel Jack Smith hasnt offered much publicly to advance the underlying narrative. But that changed yesterday with a new filing that vividly describes how prosecutors want to frame up their case against Trump for jurors.

In a filing that the rules require, Smith revealed other bad acts and conduct that he intends to introduce against Trump at trial. What emerges is a compelling argument that Trumps own anti-democratic statements and conduct began years before the 2020 election and continued well after the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. But it goes even further than that.

Im going to cheat and just share the subheads that Smith used in the filing because they elegantly show the framing of the case:

Historical Evidence of the Defendants Consistent Plan of Baselessly Claiming Election Fraud Historical Evidence of the Defendants Common Plan to Refuse to Commit to a Peaceful Transition of Power Evidence of the Defendant and Co-Conspirators Knowledge of the Unfavorable Election Results and Motive and Intent to Subvert Them Pre- and Post-Conspiracy Evidence That the Defendant and Co-Conspirators Suppressed Proof Their Fraud Claims Were False and Retaliated Against Officials Who Undermined Their Criminal Plans Pre- and Post-Conspiracy Evidence of the Defendants Public Attacks on Individuals, Encouragement of Violence, and Knowledge of the Foreseeable Consequences

The filing is only nine pages long, but its chockablock with specific instances and examples that show the contours of the prosecutions case against Trump. Id urge you to read it.

A Small Point Of Pride

I remain immensely proud of this piece by then-TPMers Tierney Sneed and Matt Shuham from late January 2021 in which they made a heroic effort to place the Jan. 6 attack in the broader context of the vast, months-long effort to subvert the election: The Capitol Mob Was Only The Finale Of Trumps Conspiracy To Overturn The Election.

I mention it now because that piece led with a description of the disturbance caused by pro-Trump supporters trying to stop the counting of votes at the TCF Center in Detroit shortly after Election Day 2022  and in yesterdays filing by Special Counsel Jack Smith he revealed new information about the origins of that near-riot to block the ballot counting.

In a partially redacted section of the filing, Smith states (emphasis mine):

The Government also plans to introduce evidence of an effort undertaken by an agent (and unindicted co-conspirator) of the defendant who worked for his campaign (the Campaign Employee) to, immediately following the election, obstruct the vote count. On November 4, 2020, the Campaign Employee exchanged a series of text messages with an attorney supporting the Campaigns election day operations at the TCF Center in Detroit, where votes were being counted; in the messages, the Campaign Employee encouraged rioting and other methods of obstruction when he learned that the vote count was trending in favor of the defendants opponent.

Thats a remarkable revelation. If only wed known it then! Its not clear who the Campaign Employee is or whether this is a new co-conspirator or one of the unnamed co-conspirators in the indictment.

Its Coming 

At what point do prosecutors and investigators start gathering evidence for the open, blatant, transparent Trumpian plan to abuse the powers of government to retaliate against his perceived enemies?

Take a listen to this appalling brag from former Trump Pentagon apparatchik Kash Patel:

Kash Patel says as Trumps next CIA Director he will lead patriots appointed by Trump in an all-out effort to prosecute and jail people in government and the media: We will find the conspirators in govt and the media. Yes, we are going to come after the people in the media. pic.twitter.com/NuLyqOIKWO  Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) December 5, 2023

The fact that this is so far outside the CIAs lane is just icing on the cake of underlying wrongness and bad faith.

Lest you be tempted to dismiss comments like these as the florid paeans of sycophants, heres another new warning about Trump from his own former secretary of defense:

Trumps former Defense Secretary Mark Esper on Donald Trump: He wanted to deploy active-duty troops on the street of Washington, D.C. and suggested actually that we shoot Americans in the street. That's kind of more of what you'll see. pic.twitter.com/OdKVTAnL72  Republican Accountability (@AccountableGOP) December 5, 2023

Oh, Well, Then 

Trump: I wont be a dictator except for day one

Buck Up! Dont Despair!

Greg Sargent:

Its sometimes said that our institutions and civic culture have withered so much that resistance to Trumpian tyranny would be incapacitated, rendering its onset all but inevitable. Such a reading of the moment risks leading us astray. It fails to account for much of the good that transpired during the Trump years, from which there is plenty to learn. Undue fatalism could even prove counterproductive, de-energizing voter opposition exactly when Trump is brazenly projecting his dictatorial intentions.

Colorado High Court Hears DQ Clause Case

Oral arguments today in the 14th Amendment Disqualification Clause case to keep Trump off the Colorado ballot. Its not clear yet, but this could be the case that the U.S. Supreme Court ultimately weighs in on.

Judge Irked By Rudys No-Show For Hearing

With his defamation trial looming next week, Rudy Giuliani annoyed U.S. District Judge Beryl A. Howell by not showing up for a pre-trial hearing yesterday. By her order, parties were to supposed to attend the hearing in person. It would have been the first time Giuliani would have faced Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss in person.

Ukraine Aid Is In Real Trouble

Its hard to overstate how insane it is that Ukraine aid has been successfully held hostage by Republicans, with the ransom demand being an array of aggressive new U.S. border policies. And its not just crazies in the House. This short thread by PBS NewsHour correspondent Lisa Desjardins nicely captures the Senate Republican pathology:

OK. I have a lot of reporting on the  what is the right word?  unusual, explosive briefing that just happened in the U.S. Senate on Ukraine and border.



1/  Lisa Desjardins (@LisaDNews) December 5, 2023

Antisemitic NYC Attack Yields Hate Crime Charges

A NYC man was charged with hate crimes after allegedly stalking and harassing Israeli tourists in Times Square before punching one of them in the head. The man was allegedly taunting:

Hamas should kill more of you.

May Allah kill you.

May Allah kill all the Jews.

All Jews should die.

I will die for Gaza.

2024 Ephemera

President Biden , on his re-election campaign: If Trump wasnt running, Im not sure Id be running.

LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, the billionaire Democratic donor, gave $250,000 to a super PAC supporting Nikki Haley .

Special election to fill the seat of ex-Rep. George Santos (R-NY) is set for Feb. 13, 2024.

How Far Will The Conservative Supreme Court Go?

Another bellwether case before the Supreme Court yesterday that will test how far the supermajority of Republican appointees will go in validating obscure conservative pet legal theories.

A Proper Tribute To Sandra Day OConnor

Worth reading from a man in whose company I frequently felt impostor syndrome. pic.twitter.com/mV8Rykv9Xm  Adam Mortara (@AdamMortara) December 5, 2023

Do you like Morning Memo? Let us know!
Interstate 5 was at a standstill for several hours through Bellingham early Wednesday afternoon after a serious injury crash that blocked both directions of the freeway near Sunset Drive.

Police and firefighters were dispatched to the scene at 12:51 p.m., according to the Pulse Point emergency services app.

Northbound traffic was backed up to Lakeway Drive and southbound traffic was backed up past Meridian Street at 1:15 p.m., according to the according to the Washington State Department of Transportation app.

Both northbound and southbound I-5 at Sunset is fully blocked for a one-car/motorcycle serious injury collision. Northbound traffic is diverted to Iowa Street and southbound traffic is diverted to Sunset. Please be patient while troopers on scene investigate this collision. No ETA for the roadway to reopen, Washington State Patrol Trooper Kelsey Harding tweeted at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday.

Backups went for three miles or more, according to WSDOT tweets.

It was unknown how the crash happened or how many people were involved or injured.

Harding told The Bellingham Herald that four vehicles were involved and that one person was sent to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle for treatment.

One northbound lane of I-5 opened about 1:30 p.m. but southbound lanes were closed and drivers were being diverted at Sunset Drive, WSDOT tweeted.

All lanes opened in both directions a little after 3 p.m., WSDOT tweeted.
Henry King, 48, was found dead offshore near Taylor Dock after being shot multiple times on March 12, 2023, in Bellingham, Wash. The Bellingham Police Department is asking the public for help in their homicide investigation.

Nearly nine months after a Bellingham man was shot to death and found offshore near Taylor Dock, Bellingham police have arrested a person suspected of killing him.

Bellingham police arrested 22-year-old Elijah James Belmont, of Marysville, Wash., Wednesday, Dec. 6 on suspicion of first-degree murder for the March 12 shooting death of 48-year-old Henry Howard King.

Whatcom County Superior Court records show the Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorneys Office filed formal charges against Belmont on Monday, Dec. 4. A warrant for his arrest was issued the same day.

The formal charging documents, and details regarding the investigation into Belmonts arrest, have been temporarily sealed by the court.

Belmont is being charged with premeditated first-degree murder, including a firearm enhancement, the prosecutors office confirmed to The Bellingham Herald.

Belmont is expected to make a first appearance in court Thursday afternoon, Dec. 7.

Sealed records

The prosecutors office requested the court seal all documents Dec. 5 in Belmonts case temporarily due to concerns regarding the ongoing law enforcement investigation and safety of cooperating witnesses, according to court records.

In an affidavit filed by Bellingham Police Department, Travis Hauri, lead detective in the case, said that if the charges filed against Belmont were made public it could threaten authorities ability to successfully complete this investigation and erode law enforcements ability to protect the public.

Hauri also wrote that there were concerns for the safety of cooperating witnesses, including some who have openly discussed fears for their safety, the court documents state.

Because of the concerns surrounding the ongoing law enforcement investigation, public safety and the safety of cooperating witnesses, the court issued an order Dec. 5 sealing all documents filed in Belmonts court case until an arrest had been made.

Weighed against the public interest in the open administration of justice, compelling circumstances warrant the temporary sealing ordered in this matter, court documents state.

Well-known to community

Belmont is accused of shooting and killing King, of Bellingham, around 4 a.m. on March 12, according to previous reporting in The Herald.

King died on the boardwalk between Taylor Dock and Boulevard Park from multiple gunshot wounds. His death was ruled a homicide March 14 by the Whatcom County Medical Examiners Office.

King, who grew up in Bellingham, was a familiar face at Boulevard Park in the years prior to his death, where he was known to sell sports cards. He was known as Hank to those who were close to him.

King struggled with mental illness and was homeless at the time of his death. After his death, an impromptu memorial for King was set up on the bench where he often sat at Boulevard Park.

Bellingham police had asked for the publics help multiple times throughout its investigation into Kings death.

Wednesdays arrest of Belmont was made in Marysville by Bellingham police, with help from the Marysville Police Department, Snohomish County Sheriffs Office and Everett Police Department, according to Megan Peters, a spokesperson for Bellingham police.

Peters said Bellingham police is continuing its investigation into Kings homicide, and public information is limited at this time.
LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  State police are investigating a hit-and-run crash that occurred in the area of Rutter Avenue in Luzerne County.

According to Pennsylvania State Police, the crash occurred on Monday around 9:04 a.m. on State Route 309 in the area of the Rutter Ave and the Kingston on-ramp.

Man dies after falling 20 feet in Luzerne County warehouse

Police describe the suspects vehicle as a gray Honda, an unknown model.

Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has any other information is asked to contact Troop P, Wilkes-Barre, and reference incident number PA2023-1584458.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
Israel says it has encircled and entered Khan Yunis in southern Gaza.

Despite warnings from U.S. officials about limiting civilian casualties and the length of its campaign, Israel on Tuesday announced it has expanded operations that have been relegated to the northern Gaza Strip and encircled and entered a major southern city in Southern Gaza.

Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, Chief of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) General Staff his troops are in the third phase of ground operations and are now encircling the Khan Yunis area in the southern Gaza Strip.

Khan Yunis is located in the southern end of the Gaza Strip. (Google Earth)

Those who thought that the IDF would not know how to renew the fighting after the pause were mistaken, and Hamas is already feeling this. Many Hamas operatives, including senior commanders, have been eliminated in recent days.

https://twitter.com/nexta_tv/status/1732082243919552548 https://twitter.com/Natsecjeff/status/1732064641562657082 https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1731927680105214266?s=20

The IDF is operating professionally; evacuating the population from combat zones; striking Hamas from above and below ground with combined strikes from the air, sea, and land, he said. Many ask about the destruction in Gaza. Hamas is the address. [Hamas leader Yahya] Sinwar is the address. Our forces find in nearly every building and house weapons and in many houses terrorists, and engage them in combat.

Smoke rises above buildings in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip, as battles between Israel and Hamas militants continue on December 5, 2023. (Photo by MAHMUD HAMS / AFP) (Photo by MAHMUD HAMS/AFP via Getty Images)

Israeli troops involved in the Khan Yunis have "penetrated the heart of the city," The Jerusalem Post reported Tuesday .

The IDF achieved this penetration on Monday, but the announcement was only made on Tuesday, the Post reported.

"The IDF took a variety of maneuvers to penetrate Khan Yunis. Simultaneously, the IDF invaded Khan Yunis from the east, so that Hamas would need to fight on multiple fronts. A massive force of multiple brigades, including from Division 162, were thrown into the onslaught to take over Hamas's most crucial city in southern Gaza."

https://twitter.com/Jerusalem_Post/status/1732042541296701570

The IDF is expanding its attacks into the south because it it claims Hamas leaders are hiding out there and that a number of hostages are being held in that area.

https://twitter.com/i24NEWS_EN/status/1732063811069153609

The IDF's decision to push south comes days after two Biden administration cabinet members issued blunt statements regarding concerns they have about how Israel is conducting the war.

On Saturday, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin warned Israel that the failure to protect civilians could have dangerous implications not just for Palestinians but for Israel as well. It was the most stark rebuke of how Israel is executing its military operations in Gaza so far from a top U.S. official.

"So the lesson is not that you can win in urban warfare by protecting civilians," Austin said during his speech at the Reagan Defense Forum in California on Saturday. "The lesson is that you can only win in urban warfare by protecting civilians. You see, in this kind of a fight, the center of gravity is the civilian population. And if you drive them into the arms of the enemy, you replace a tactical victory with a strategic defeat."

https://twitter.com/ianbremmer/status/1731405406654918784?s=20

Austin's comments came after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken seemingly tried to dissuade Israel from a long and expanded campaign in Gaza.

The entire Israeli society is united behind the goal of dismantling Hamas, even if it takes months, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told him during his trip to Israel last week.

I dont think you have the credit for that, he retorted sharply, according to the Israeli media. Blinken was referring to credit with President Biden, as the White House bends to the growing pressure against Israel's actions from the Democratic left, according to The Wall Street Journal .

https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1731712139797115108?s=20

Meanwhile, the The IDF continued operations in the north, saying it located "additional Hamas military infrastructure" in the Al-Shati area of the northern Gaza Strip.

"Hamas uses civilian infrastructure such as schools and civilian buildings to launch rockets, store weapons and carry out attacks against the IDF," it claimed. "This is just one example of the broader operational method used by Hamas in Al-Shati and other areas. It reflects Hamas' combat tactics throughout the entire strip - using civilian buildings and infrastructure for terrorist purposes. Hamas continues to endanger the lives and safety of Gazan civilians."

https://twitter.com/idfonline/status/1732008092559102196

To date, nearly 16,000 Palestinians have been killed and more than 41,000 injured, according to Gaza Health Ministry figures cited by the United Nations Tuesday . There have been more than 1,200 Israelis killed and more than 5,400 injured, the UN said, citing Israeli authorities.

In addition, more than 46,000 housing units have been destroyed in Gaza during Israeli bombardment, with more than 1.87 million Palestinians displaced.

The IDF estimated that about two civilians have been killed for every dead Hamas fighter in the Gaza Strip, senior military officials said Monday, The Times of Israel reported . The IDF that it was deploying high-tech mapping software to try to reduce noncombatant deaths.

Asked about media reports that 5,000 Hamas fighters had been killed, one of the senior officials told reporters at a briefing, The numbers are more or less right.

The War Zone cannot independently verify casualty figures provided by either side.

People mourn as they collect the bodies of Palestinians killed in an airstrike on December 5, 2023 in Khan Yunis, Gaza. (Photo by Ahmad Hasaballah/Getty Images)

Both the Palestinian Islamic Jihad and Hamas say they have been putting up a stiff resistance to Israel in Khan Yunis.

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad released a video of what it says are its attacks there.

https://twitter.com/war_noir/status/1732011160398913903

Hamas claimed it destroyed a large number of vehicles and killed several Israeli troops.

"We have counted the total or partial destruction of 24 military vehicles only in the fighting areas in the city of Khan Yunis," Hamas said on Telegram. "They targeted 18 soldiers with a direct attack. Al-Qassam snipers killed and wounded eight soldiers. They blew up a house in which a special force had been barricaded with explosives, and placed another force in a minefield prepared in advance. They destroyed military concentrations with a short-range missile system, and directed intense missile barrages at various targets and with different ranges into our occupied territories."

The War Zone could not independently confirm those claims.

Hamas also released video it claims to be of its fighters emerging from a tunnel near IDF forces in the Juhr al-Dik area, east of the central region.

"Watch part of the process of monitoring the enemys tents and positioning before carrying out the process of planting and detonating explosive devices among the forces present at the site," Hamas said on Telegram.

The video only shows what appears to be someone emerging from underground and recording the IDF troops. There is no explosion or attack seen.

https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1732035554357792799?s=12

Hamas also launched several rocket barrages against Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Ashkelon.

https://twitter.com/i24NEWS_EN/status/1732040993372008823 https://twitter.com/nir_kahn/status/1732100974016119248 https://twitter.com/YoniMichanie/status/1732044442599854106 https://twitter.com/cjkeller8/status/1732029119674663222

As the fighting continued, thousands of Palestinian families, already displaced since the war erupted, were forced to move again, this time to Rafah in southern Gaza.

https://twitter.com/OnlinePalEng/status/1732045724777603100

Many Palestinians ignored the evacuation orders and used leaflets dropped by the IDF as fuel to cook food while they stayed.

https://twitter.com/PalestineNW/status/1732009294579528140

Days earlier, video emerged of an Israeli drone threatening civilians in Masafer Yatta:

"I advise you not to resist in any form, or we will kill you."

https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1731242382698418190?s=20

While the Israeli government has argued that Palestinians have a safe place to go in Gaza called Mowasi, it's a "desolate wasteland of sand dunes next to the Mediterranean Sea" as you can see in this Sky News report.

https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1731559769142399138?s=20

Footage emerged Saturday of Israeli airstrikes citing Hamad Towers in Southern Gaza. The video shows what appears to be an Israeli 2,000-pound SPICE 2000 precision-guided bomb striking the building.

https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1731030802547212651?s=20

Israel's Iron Dome air defense system has proven invaluable to Israel, but even that fails sometimes, as you can see in the video below. You can read more about Israel's vaunted multi-layered integrated air defense system (IADS) in our deep dive here .

https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1731048073671974950?s=20

The U.K. Defense Ministry on Saturday it was resuming surveillance flights over Gaza in an effort to help find hostages. Those flights were halted as part of the seven-day ceasefire that broke down Dec. 1.

https://twitter.com/LOS_Fisher/status/1731037429648199912?s=20

A witness to the Hamas Oct. 7 surprise attack gave Israeli investigators chilling testimony about seeing Hamas gang-rape another woman than cutting off her breast.

https://twitter.com/Jerusalem_Post/status/1732094062990328101

On Monday, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said one reason Hamas didn't want to turn over women hostages is that they don't want them to talk about what they experienced.

https://twitter.com/greg_price11/status/1731740419216588958?s=20

Video emerged from that invasion of Hamas fighters emerging from a boat and attacking Zikim beach near Gaza.

https://twitter.com/hearnimator/status/1731650014009606424?s=20

A "markedly tense meeting" was held Tuesday between a group of recently released hostages, as well as family members of those still held in Gaza, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as the other members of the war cabinet.

Those present at the gathering in Herzliya told media outlets afterward that voices were raised and that Netanyahu did not engage directly with any of their demands, largely reading remarks off of a piece of paper, angering those present, The Times of Israel reported. In recordings, some attendees could be heard screaming at the prime minister to resign.

According to several Hebrew media reports, Netanyahu told the families there is no possibility right now to bring everyone home. Can anyone really imagine that if that was an option, anyone would refuse it?  a statement met with outrage from many. Some even said they got up and left the meeting midway through.

https://twitter.com/haaretzcom/status/1732057943481164003?s=20

The number of hostages still held in Gaza has risen to 138 people, IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari announced on Tuesday night, according to The Jerusalem Post .

One person previously considered missing since Hamas's October 7 attacks has now been confirmed as being in Hamas captivity. In addition, about 20 women and children still remain in Gaza as hostages, with the remaining number men.

Hamas said that there will be no hostage negotiations until Israeli aggression toward Gaza stops.

https://twitter.com/haaretzcom/status/1732089556097216672

In another sign of the Biden administration's growing impatience with Israel, Blinken on Tuesday announced the U.S. is "implementing a new visa restriction policy targeting individuals believed to have been involved in undermining peace, security, or stability in the West Bank."

Immediate family members of such persons also may be subject to these restrictions, Blinken said in his statement.

"The United States has consistently opposed actions that undermine stability in the West Bank, including attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians, and Palestinian attacks against Israelis," Blinken said. "We have underscored to the Israeli government the need to do more to hold accountable extremist settlers who have committed violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank. As President Biden has repeatedly said, those attacks are unacceptable. Last week in Israel, I made clear that the United States is ready to take action using our own authorities."

It was the first time extremist settlers have been sanction by the U.S. since the Clinton administration, Axios reported.

https://twitter.com/BarakRavid/status/1732050376075940179

Nine relatives of CNN photojournalist Ibrahim Dahman were killed in an Israeli airstrike on Gaza, the network reported Monday.

https://twitter.com/amanpour/status/1731687601411686665?s=20

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) posted a rare photo of an IAF-F-16D equipped with four SUU-25 flare dispensers emerged on social media. The dispensers carry target-marking or illuminating flares.

https://twitter.com/GuyPlopsky/status/1732055251140976945?s=20

Israel has developed a plan to use large pumps to flood Hamas vast network of tunnels with water from the Mediterranean Sea to drive fighters from their underground hideouts, The Wall Street Journal reported . The plan, which has yet to be enacted, also carries concerns about threatening Gazas drinking water supply, U.S. officials have said.

The IDF finished assembling large seawater pumps roughly one mile north of the Al-Shati refugee camp around the middle of last month. The five pumps could flood the tunnels in weeks, the publication reported.

https://twitter.com/drelidavid/status/1732124337128313028

U.S. officials only learned of the option early last month and discussions ensued weighing its feasibility and environmental impact against the military value of disabling the tunnels, officials told the Journal.

U.S. officials said they didnt know how close the Israeli government was to carrying out the plan. Israel hasnt made a final decision to move ahead, nor has it ruled the plan out, officials said.

Sentiment inside the U.S. was mixed. Some U.S. officials privately expressed concern about the plan, while other officials said the U.S. supports the disabling of the tunnels and said there wasnt necessarily any U.S. opposition to the plan. The Israelis have identified about 800 tunnels so far, though they acknowledge the network is bigger than that.

https://twitter.com/nancyayoussef/status/1731798814086812019

Lebanon's army said one of its soldiers was killed and three wounded when Israeli shelling hit near a village in south Lebanon near the Israeli border, Reuters reported . It would mark the first deadly incident for the Lebanese army since the Gaza war began on Oct 7.

The Israeli army did not immediately respond to a request for comment, Reuters said.

The IDF did not address that claim on Telegram, but said it struck "a number of Hezbollah terror targets in Lebanon, including terrorist infrastructure and military posts used for weapons storage and by terrorist operatives."

Those strikes came after the IDF said several munitions were launched from Lebanon into northern Israel, all landing in open areas and causing no damage. In addition, the IDF said "a hostile aircraft that crossed from Lebanon was located in the area of Margaliot in northern Israel. IDF soldiers that were dispatched to the scene are recovering the aircraft. No injuries were reported."

Hezbollah said on Telegram it targeted IDF troops at several locations near the border.

https://twitter.com/TOIAlerts/status/1732078271507169574

In an effort to reduce tensions along the Lebanese border, a French diplomatic delegation will arrive in Israel in the coming days to engage with Israeli and Lebanese officials, the Times of Israel reported .

The delegation includes Alice Rufo, the defense policy director at the French Defense Ministry, and Frederic Mondoloni, the political director of the French Foreign Ministry. They are expected to discuss Gaza with Israeli officials, but will not enter the Strip. It is unclear whether they will continue from Israel to Beirut.

The French administration has vast leverage on Lebanese internal politics and may use its influence to work on tamping down the attacks on Israel from the northern border.

https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/1731748156163936421?s=12

In the wake of Sunday's Houthi missile strikes on three civilian cargo vessels in the Red Sea and the shootdown of three Houthi drones by a U.S. Navy destroyer, the White House is talking about creating a new international naval task force. You can read more about those attacks, and the response by the Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyer USS Carney, in our initial reporting here .

"We are in talks with other countries about maritime task force of sorts involving the ships from partner nations alongside the United States in ensuring safe passage of ships in the Red Sea," U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told reporters Monday. "What the precise structure would be, I will defer to the consultations that are taking place, only to say that, at a broad level, the idea that we would work with other countries and their naval vessels to try to provide a greater level of security through the Red Sea."

Sullivan offered no specific details though acknowledged that it would be a new addition to existing task forces providing "maritime security." While he did not name any, Task Force 153 is an international effort that focuses "on international maritime security and capacity building efforts in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb and Gulf of Aden."

https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/1731810027579580807

On Monday, 100 aid trucks carrying humanitarian supplies and 69,000 liters of fuel entered Gaza from Egypt, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

This is well below the daily average of 170 trucks and 110,000 liters of fuel that had entered during the humanitarian pause implemented between Nov. 24 and Nov. 30, OCHA said.

The Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory stated that the conditions required to deliver aid to the people of Gaza do not exist. If possible, an even more hellish scenario is about to unfold, one in which humanitarian operations may not be able to respond. What we see today are shelters with no capacity, a health system on its knees, a lack of clean drinking water, no proper sanitation and poor nutrition for people already mentally and physically exhausted: a textbook formula for epidemics and a public health disaster.

In addition to the aid that came in, 25 wounded people and 583 foreign or dual nationals were evacuated from Gaza to Egypt and ten humanitarian staff have entered Gaza.

USAID chief Samantha Power arrived in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula where she announced more than $21 million more in additional aid to Palestinians affected by the war.

https://twitter.com/Jerusalem_Post/status/1732102844608552984

The is a developing story. We will update it when there is more news to report about the Israel-Hamas war.

Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com
Smoke rises in Lebanon, as seen from Tyre

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - The Israeli army said on Wednesday it was reviewing a strike that harmed Lebanese troops in south Lebanon, an apparent reference to Israeli shelling that killed a Lebanese soldier and wounded three others the previous day.

"The Lebanese Armed Forces were not the target of the strike. The IDF expresses regret over the incident. The incident is under review," the Israeli military said in a statement.

Israel and the heavily armed Lebanese group Hezbollah have been exchanging fire across the Lebanese-Israeli border since the start of the war between the Palestinian group Hamas and Israel on Oct. 7.

The Lebanese army said the soldier, a sergeant, was killed when an army position was shelled by Israel on Tuesday.

The Israeli army said its soldiers had acted in "self defense to eliminate an imminent threat that had been identified from Lebanon" from a "known launch area and observation point" used by Hezbollah.

The U.N. peacekeeping force in Lebanon UNIFIL noted in a statement on Tuesday it was the first Lebanese army soldier killed during the hostilities, and that the Lebanese army had not engaged in conflict with Israel.

(Reporting by Jerusalem bureau; Editing by Tom Perry and Kim Coghill)
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia has attracted 225 billion ringgit (48.2 billion U.S. dollars) in approved investments across the services, manufacturing and primary sectors from January to September, exceeding its full-year target, the government's investment promotion agency said on Wednesday.

The Malaysian Investment Development Authority said in a statement that it was a 6.6-percent increase as compared to the same period last year, backed by 3,949 investment projects.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) constituted 55.9 percent of the total approved investments at 125.7 billion ringgit.

The Netherlands emerged as the leading source of FDI, contributing 35 billion ringgit, followed by Singapore, the United States, China and Japan.

Domestic Direct Investment (DDI), on the other hand, contributed 99.3 billion ringgit, or 44.1 percent of the total approved investments.

The services sector led the way in terms of approved investments from January to September, accounting for 117.7 billion ringgit, or 52.3 percent of the total approvals.

The manufacturing sector in Malaysia attracted a total of 99.8 billion ringgit in approved investments, accounting for 44.4 percent of the total approved investments across all sectors.

The primary sector sees 7.5 billion ringgit in approved investments, constituting 3.3 percent of the total approvals. (1 U.S. dollar equals 4.67 ringgit) 
Editor's Note: For the latest on the Israel-Hamas conflict, please see our live updates file here.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his war Cabinet were assailed by released hostages and the families of those still being held by Hamas, who shared the horror of their experiences and questioned the governments efforts to free the nearly 140 who remain in captivity.

In a heated meeting Tuesday, Netanyahu and his colleagues argued that the only way to obtain concessions from Hamas is through a military campaign, and some relatives of hostages shouted shame at the prime minister when he raised the question of how to get the rest of the captives back.

This entire performance was ugly, insulting, messy, Dani Miran, the father of a male hostage, told Israel's Channel 13, according to Reuters. Miran said he was so upset, he walked out midway through the meeting.

Israels Ynet News published portions of audio from the session, in which a hostage who had been kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz tells about her ordeal. She was released along with more than 100 other captives during the weeklong truce that ended Friday and said she feared for her life because of the Israeli airstrikes.

We were in tunnels, terrified that it would not be Hamas but Israel that would kill us, and then they would say Hamas killed you, she said. So I strongly urge that the prisoner exchange begins as soon as possible and everyone needs to return home.

Another former hostage who was freed with her daughters but not her husband questioned how much the Israeli government knows about what Hamas is doing and raised the alarm about plans to flush out its fighters from the tunnels under Gaza.

"We felt as though no one was doing anything for us. The reality is that I was in a hideout that was bombed and we became wounded refugees," she said. "My husband was separated from us three days before we returned to Israel and was taken to the tunnels. And you're talking about flooding the tunnels with seawater?"

Some families of hostages have accused Netanyahu of prioritizing the destruction of Hamas above freeing the hostages. He argued that it wasnt until the Israel Defense Forces launched their ground attack that Hamas was willing to negotiate their release.

The second matter you raised, which is distressing, is hearing about the ordeals you endured with our bombings and military operations, those of the IDF, and it continues. Its true, Netanyahu said. I find it deeply saddening. I can assure you that its not just saddening, as my colleagues will affirm, it also influences their operational considerations. And if you intended to convey this message, you have succeeded.

Israeli soldiers operate a drone near the Israeli-Gaza border, southern Israel, on Dec. 6, 2023.

Developments:

 Yehya Sinwar, Hamas' top leader in Gaza, and military chief Mohammed Deif grew up in a refugee camp in Khan Younis, the southern city Israel is now attacking. Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari said Sinwar is not above ground, he is underground, adding, Our job is to find Sinwar and kill him.

 Some women in Gaza have been seeking increasingly scarce menstrual pads through social media. For women and girls, the suffering is double, said a Palestinian woman who identified herself as Umm Ahmed. Its more humiliation.

 Netanyahu said a "minimal amount'' of fuel will be allowed into the southern Gaza Strip occasionally to prevent a humanitarian crisis and the spread of disease. Israel has mostly blocked fuel supplies from entering the territory since the war started, saying Hamas takes it for military purposes.

 With the border city of Rafah swelling to more than twice its usual population of 280,000 because of incoming refugees, Egypt has deployed thousands of troops and erected earthen barriers to prevent a mass influx of Palestinians. Egypt says such migration would undermine its decades-old peace treaty with Israel.

 The Gaza Health Ministry said the Palestinian death toll has surpassed 16,200, and more than 42,000 people have been wounded. The ministry said 70% of the dead were women and children. Israel has not disputed the counts but says it has killed more than 5,000 militants and accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields.

'In the heart of Khan Younis': Israel sweeps into major city in south Gaza

'The worst of all wars': Hungry Palestinians fighting over food

Palestinians at shelters in Gaza's second-largest city were fighting each other over food Wednesday while the urban combat outside intensified, as Israeli ground forces clashed with Hamas militants in the center of Khan Younis.

The United Nations says the fighting and road closures have made it impossible to distribute humanitarian aid to almost all of Gaza's southern half, where the vast majority of the enclave's 1.87 million displaced people  more than 80% of the population  have fled.

The scarcity of sustenance has led to skirmishes in U.N.-run shelters, said Nawraz Abu Libdeh, a shelter resident who has been displaced six times. The hunger war has started, he said. This is the worst of all wars.

More than 1,200 Palestinians were killed  70% of them women and children  in the first five days since hostilities resumed Friday after a weeklong truce, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

The city of Rafah in the far south remains one of the few spots in Gaza that offers relative safety and distribution of essentials like food and water, so tens of thousands of displaced people have trekked there in recent days, creating massive overcrowding. Shelters are beyond capacity and many of the new arrivals are sleeping on the streets, some in tents, others under the stars.

You find displaced people in the streets, in schools, in mosques, in hospitals  everywhere, said Hamza Abu Mustafa, a teacher who lives near a school-turned-shelter in Rafah and is hosting three families.

They're not certain to remain safe. On Wednesday evening, an Israeli strike in the Shaboura district knocked down a home and sent several injured people to a hospital, including at least six children.

At least 10 hostages were sexually assaulted or abused, physician says

At least 10 men and women among the 110 released hostages were sexually assaulted or abused, a physician who treated some freed captives told the Associated Press. The doctor declined to provide more details and spoke on condition of anonymity to protect the hostages identities.

Hamas leaders issued a statement Wednesday dismissing the claims as "echoing baseless accusations of the Zionist propaganda to justify the atrocious killing of children, women and civilians in Gaza."

Fifteen women are believed to be among the more than 130 people still being held by Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza, the Israeli military says. Lt. Col. Richard Hecht, a military spokesman, said the army is absolutely concerned about sexual violence against female hostages. President Joe Biden called the reports of sexual violence appalling and urged the world to condemn horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty.

Freed Israeli girl says her dog a 'huge help' in captivity

Freed Israeli hostage Mia Leimberg, who took her dog with her when she was seized by Hamas militants on Oct. 7, says Bella was a huge help while in captivity.

Mia, 17, was released along with her mother a week ago. She says in a video posted Wednesday on social media that she believes her captors didnt take Bella away because the puppy was quiet and went unnoticed.

It was quite a journey for both of us, Mia says. Overall, she was a huge help to me. She kept me be busy. She was moral support.

Mia, who lives in Jerusalem, was kidnapped with several other family members from a safe room in her aunts home in Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak. Israeli officials say 1,200 people were killed and at least 240 were taken hostage that day.

While in Gaza, she said she fed leftovers to Bella, a Shih Tzu, and tried to keep her from exploring too much around the area where they were held.

I am so happy that I managed to do this journey with her, Mia said. I think honestly if it was a louder dog, if they had seen her as a bother, I think they would not have let me keep her.

Mia said she feels fine physically, does not feel traumatized mentally and is able to sleep. But she says it was a difficult experience and that it will take quite a while to sink in.

Turkish leaders warn Israel not to kill Hamas beyond Gaza

Israel will pay a heavy price if it expands its war on Hamas to assassinate militant leaders living in Turkey or elsewhere outside the Gaza Strip, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said.

Hamas leaders have routinely sought safe havens in Qatar, Lebanon, Iran, Russia and Turkey. Israel has generally refrained from pursuing them to avoid diplomatic upheaval. But since the murderous foray into Israel on Oct. 7, Israel has warned that no place will be safe for Hamas leaders. Netanyahu recently said he instructed the Israeli spy agency Mossad to "act against the heads of Hamas wherever they are."

Erdogan warned that Israel would find Turkish intelligence and security agencies a powerful adversary.

If they dare to take such a step against Turkey and Turkish people, they will be doomed to pay a price which they cannot recover from, Erdogan told Turkey's Anadolu News Agency. Those who attempt such a thing should not forget that the consequences can be extremely serious."

Blinken discusses Gaza with top Chinese diplomat

Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday discussed recent U.S. diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the war. Blinken reiterated the imperative of all parties working to prevent the conflict from spreading, the State Department said in a statement.

Front and center was a discussion of the recent Houthi attacks against commercial ships in the Red Sea. Blinken said the attacks posed an unacceptable threat to maritime security and international law "that all nations have an obligation to uphold."

The two sides are mostly in agreement on Gaza, and both governments support a two-state solution. President Xi Jinping has repeatedly stressed the need for an immediate cease-fire, ensuring the humanitarian corridors are safe and unimpeded, and preventing the expansion of the conflict.

Critical Gaza hospital on life support as war rages on

Fuel and medical supplies have reached critically low levels at Al-Aqsa Hospital in the central Gaza Strip because of road closures despite the hundreds of patients needing emergency treatment after the Israeli bombardment, Doctors Without Borders warned. The hospital has been receiving on average 150 to 200 war-wounded patients daily. Without electricity, ventilators would cease to function, blood donations would have to stop and the sterilization of surgical instruments would be impossible, the group said.

There are 700 patients admitted in the hospital now, with new patients arriving all the time," said Marie-Aure Perreaut Revial, the group's emergency coordinator. "We are running out of essential supplies to treat them.

85% of Gaza residents driven from their homes by war

Almost 1.9 million people, or 85% of the Gaza Strip population, have been forced from their homes since the war began two months ago, the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees says. About 1.2 million of them are living in United Nations-provided shelters, the agency says. The death toll of UNRWA workers has climbed to 130.

Palestinians in Gaza are living in utter, deepening horror, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said at a news conference in Geneva, calling for a cease-fire. My humanitarian colleagues have described the situation as apocalyptic.

US Navy ship battles in Red Sea against Houthi militants: How it unfolded

Contributing: The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Israel Hamas updates: Freed hostages feared being killed by bombs
Israeli military have started setting up pumps to flood Hamas's tunnels in Gaza with seawater - Dr Eli David via X

Israeli troops have been photographed setting up pumps to flood Hamass tunnels with seawater.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) released images on Wednesday of dozens of soldiers laying pipes on Gazas Mediterranean Coast.

It was reported earlier this week that the IDF was considering whether to flush out the 300-mile tunnel network and had completed construction on five pumps about a mile north of the Al-Shati refugee camp.

The pumps could move thousands of cubic metres of water per hour but experts warn the move could damage Gazas water supply.

Lt Gen Herzi Halevi, the IDFs chief of staff, said on Tuesday that flooding the tunnels was a good idea when asked about the reports.

Any means which gives us an advantage over the enemy, deprives it of these assets, is a means that we are evaluating using, he said, without giving any further specifics.

On Wednesday, Israeli media also released footage of troops apparently working on the pipes underground, with black pipes swelling with water after a valve was turned.

Any move to flood the tunnels is complicated by the fact that Hamas is understood to be holding many of the remaining 138 hostages within them.

On Tuesday night, freed hostages and their families berated Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, for not doing enough to save Hamas captives, according to a recording obtained by Ynet News.

Prof Eilon Adar, of the Zuckerberg Institute for Water Research, said the amount of damage to Gazas water supply could be significant.

The negative impact on groundwater quality would last for several generations, depending on the amount that infiltrates into the subsurface, he told the Times of Israel, adding the long-term effects would be politically and morally incorrect.

On Wednesday, Mr Netanyahu said Israeli troops had surrounded the house of Yahya Sinwar, the mastermind of the Oct 7 terror attack, in the main southern city of Khan Younis.

[On Tuesday night] I said our forces can reach anywhere in the Gaza strip. Now they are surrounding Sinwars house. His house is not his fortress ... but its only a matter of time until we get him, Mr Netanyahu said on Wednesday during a meeting with the head of the Red Cross.

Our job is to kill Sinwar

Responding to Mr Netanyahus remarks, Daniel Hagari, the IDFs chief spokesperson, said Sinwar was underground.

I wont elaborate on where exactly and what we know. Our job is to get to Sinwar and kill him.

The IDF destroyed Sinwars house in the last bout of fighting in 2021, with the Hamas leader later posing for photos sitting on an armchair in the rubble.

Israeli forces were fighting door-to-door in Khan Younis on Wednesday, with the army claiming it had struck 250 targets in the Strip over the past 24 hours.

Troops found one of the largest ever weapons caches in the Gaza Strip, the IDF said. Hundreds of RPGs and dozens of anti-tank missiles were found in a depot near a health clinic and a school, a statement read.

The cache of weapons was said to be one of the largest ever found in the Gaza Strip

Footage was released of soldiers from the 460th Armored Brigade and Nahal Brigades 50th Battalion carrying giant rockets on their shoulders on to waiting trucks.

At a news conference, Volker Turk, the UNs human rights chief, said: Palestinians in Gaza are living in utter, deepening horror. More than 16,000 have been killed since the war began, according to the Hamas-run health authorities.

Eylon Levy, an Israeli government spokesman, said Israel wanted the war to end, but added it can only end in a way that ensures that Hamas can never attack our people again.

At a private meeting with Mr Netanyahu on Tuesday, hostages and their families furiously accused the prime minister of putting politics above rescue efforts. Some also said they were inadvertently fired on by the IDF, according to a leaked recording obtained by Ynet news.

[I was in] a hiding place that was shelled and we had to be smuggled out and we were wounded, a recently freed female hostage said.

You claim that there is intelligence. But the fact is that we are being shelled.

An Israeli helicopter unleashes a missile towards the Gaza Strip - JACK GUEZ/AFP

The leaked recordings reflect the immense anger felt by many Israelis towards Mr Netanyahu and growing public support for prioritising the release of the remaining hostages.

You put politics above the return of the kidnapped, an unidentifed woman told Mr Netanyahu. Return them all and not in a month, two months or a year.

US President Joe Biden said on Tuesday that Hamas had repeatedly raped women and mutilated their bodies during its assault on southern Israel, citing survivors and witnesses.

It is appalling, he told a political fundraiser in Boston.

According to Israeli reports citing a doctor who treated hostages, 10 former captives, both male and female, said they had been sexually assaulted after their kidnapping.

03:58 PM GMT

Today's live coverage has ended

Todays live coverage has ended. Here is a roundup of the days main events:

Israeli troops have been pictured setting up pumps to flood Hamas tunnels with water.

A large stockpile was uncovered near a clinic and school in northern Gaza, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Gaza health officials said many civilians were killed in an Israeli strike on houses in Deir al-Balah, north of Khan Younis.

Supplies at al-Aqsa Hospital in central Gaza are at critically low levels due to road enclosures despite hundreds of patients being admitted per day, according to Doctors Without Borders (MSF).

The Israeli army said Wednesday that the International Committee of the Red Cross must have access to the hostages still being held by Palestinian militants in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip.

An incident involving a drone in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen has been reported by the UK maritime trade operations agency.

03:44 PM GMT

Western troops in Iraq targeted in drone attack claimed by pro-Iran group

A drone targeted Western troops at a military base in Iraq on Wednesday, a US military official said, in an attack claimed by a pro-Iran militant group.

A one-way attack drone was launched against US and Coalition forces at (Ain) al-Asad Airbase in western Iraq, the official who spoke on condition of anonymity told AFP, adding it caused no causalities or damage.

The Islamic Resistance in Iraq claimed the attack. The pro-Iran group has been carrying out its attacks in response to the United States support for Israel in its nearly two-month war with Hamas.

03:28 PM GMT

Israel condemned UN response to sexual violence allegations

The Israeli foreign ministry has condemned the United Nationss response to allegations of sexual violence by Hamas during its October 7 attack.

Catherine Russell, head of the UN childrens agency UNICEF, described the accounts of sexual violence on October 7 as horrific earlier today.

Spokesman Lior Haiat blasted Russell for not mentioning the alleged perpetrators.

The fact that she (Russell) doesnt mention the Hamas terror organisation is another way of turning a blind eye on the atrocities that Hamas did, he said.

By not mentioning Hamas she is legitimising their activities.

03:15 PM GMT

US Navy shot down a drone originating from Houthi-controlled part of Yemen

The US Navy shot down a drone originating from a part of Yemen that is controlled by the Houthi group on Wednesday morning, a US defence official who declined to be named said.

03:02 PM GMT

IDF raids 'headquarters of a Hezbollah terrorist operational command'

The Israeli Defence Force has raided the headquarters of a Hezbollah terrorist operational command in Lebanon, according to IDF spokesperson Avichay Adraee.

He added that IDF tanks and artillery have also shelled targets inside Lebanon.

Several shells were also monitored from Lebanon toward a military site near Arab Al-Aramsha and Jabal Al-Sheikh area.

02:46 PM GMT

German state will require support for Israel to gain citizenship

Those applying for citizenship in the German state of Saxony Anhalt must now declare their support for Israels right to exist.

According to the decree, Israels right to exist is Germanys Staatsrason or reason of state, German media has reported.

Acquiring German citizenship requires a commitment to Israels right to exist, the decree said.

Applicants must also confirm in writing that they recognize Israels right to exist and condemn any efforts directed against the existence of the State of Israel, it added.

02:28 PM GMT

100 aid trucks preparing to enter Gaza

Aid trucks are preparing to enter Gaza, according to the Egyptian Red Crescent.

Dr Khaled Zayed, the head of the organisation in North Sinai, said around 100 trucks will follow two fuel trucks that entered earlier today.

The trucks carried around 65,000 litres of fuel.

He added that 19 wounded Palestinians and 19 companions had been sent to hospitals in North Sinai after arriving in Egypt.

Patients were also transferred to Italian and French hospital ships at al Arish seaport.

02:14 PM GMT

Pictured: Israeli troops seize Hamas weapons

The IDF said its troops of the 460th Armored Brigade and the Nahal Brigades 50th Battalion discovered one of the largest caches of weapons during operations in the northern Gaza Strip.

Hamas weapons - IDF

Hamas weapons - IDF

Hamas weapons - IDF

01:59 PM GMT

UNICEF condemns sexual violence in Hamas attacks

The head of the United Nations childrens agency condemned on Wednesday acts of sexual violence committed against women during Hamass October 7 attack.

In a post on X, UNICEF executive director Catherine Russell called the accounts of sexual violence horrific.

Survivors must be heard, supported, and provided with care, she added.

Allegations must be fully investigated. We condemn gender-based violence and all forms of violence against women and girls.

01:47 PM GMT

France condemns Israeli shelling that killed Lebanese soldier

France on Wednesday condemned shelling by Israel in south Lebanon that resulted in the death of a Lebanese soldier, a spokesperson for the French foreign ministry said.

France is gravely concerned by the ongoing clashes on the border between Lebanon and Israel. France condemns the Israeli strike which cost the life of a member of the Lebanese armed forces, and sends its sincere condolences to the victims relatives, said the ministry spokesperson in a daily briefing.

One Lebanese soldier was killed and three wounded when Israeli shelling hit near a border village in south Lebanon, the Lebanese army said in a statement on Tuesday.

01:32 PM GMT

Watch: IDF sets up pumps to flood Hamas tunnels

01:04 PM GMT

Surface-to-surface missiles intercepted

A surface-to-surface missile was intercepted by Israels military after it was launched towards Eilat in southern Israel.

Israeli forces said they were responding to a number of launches from Lebanon in the north of the country.

It said the launches had been aimed at IDF military posts.

The IDF said in a message on Telegram:

Following the report regarding sirens that sounded in the city of Eilat, a launch of a surface-to-surface missile toward Israel was identified, and was successfully intercepted in the area of the Red Sea by the Arrow aerial defence system. The target did not cross into Israeli territory [and] did not pose a threat to civilians.

It added:

A short while ago, a number of launches were identified from Lebanon. The IDF is striking the sources of the fire. Furthermore, since this morning, IDF tanks and artillery have been striking several locations in Lebanon and IDF aircraft struck a military command center and military infrastructure belonging to the Hezbollah terrorist organization.

12:52 PM GMT

IDF uncovers weapons stockpile near school

A large stockpile was uncovered near a clinic and school in northern Gaza, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

The IDF said the weapons cache contained hundreds of missiles and RPG (rocket-propelled grenade) launchers of various types, dozens of anti-tank missiles, dozens of explosive charges, long-range missiles aimed at the centre of the State of Israel, dozens of grenades and unmanned aerial vehicles.

Some weapons were destroyed in a nearby field while others were taken away for further investigation, they added.

IDF soldiers could be seen loading ammunition and weapons into vehicles.

12:31 PM GMT

Japan PM says casualties should be minimised

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu over the phone on Wednesday that it was important to minimise civilian casualties in the conflict with Hamas, the Japanese government said.

Prime Minster Kishida stated continued growth in the number of civilian casualties should be avoided, and that it is important to calm the situation swiftly, minimise civilian casualties and observe international law including international humanitarian law, a Foreign Ministry announcement said.

In response, Netanyahu set out Israels position on the military operation in Gaza, the announcement said, without elaborating.

11:57 AM GMT

Turkey rejects 'buffer zone' plan for Gaza

Turkey has rejected plans to establish a post-war buffer zone in Gaza because it would be disrespectful to Palestinians, President Tayyip Erdogan was quoted as saying on Wednesday.

Last week, Israel had conveyed plans for the buffer zone to several Arab states and Turkey.

Speaking to reporters on a flight from Doha, Erdogan said Gazas governance and future after the war would be decided by Palestinians alone.

I consider even the debating of this (buffer-zone) plan as disrespectful to my Palestinian siblings. For us, this is not a plan that can be debated, considered, or discussed, Erdogans office quoted him as saying.

Calling for Israel to hand back territories it occupies and end settlements in those territories, he said: Israel must remove the terrorists - which it markets to the world as settlers - from those houses and those lands, and think about how it can build a peaceful future with Palestinians.

11:39 AM GMT

Pictured: Armed woman in Jerusalem

An armed woman has been seen walking through Jerusalem during increased tensions between Palestinians and Israelis.

Gunmen, claimed by Hamas to be members of their group, shot numerous people at a bus stop on Thursday morning on the outskirts of Jerusalem before being shot dead.

An armed woman walks through Jerusalem - Spencer Platt/Getty Images

11:24 AM GMT

Malaysian police arrest man over statements supporting diplomatic relations with Israel

Malaysian police said on Wednesday they have arrested a 36-year-old man to assist in a sedition probe regarding statements he made supporting diplomatic relations with Israel.

Malaysia, a majority-Muslim country, is a staunch supporter of Palestine and does not have diplomatic ties with Israel.

11:15 AM GMT

Scotlands First Minister's relatives allowed to leave Gaza

Scotlands First Minister has said his relatives in Gaza have been told they can leave via the Rafah border crossing to Egypt but are unable to get there.

Humza Yousaf posted on social media: My brother-in-law, his wife and four children (the youngest is four months old) have been told they can leave Gaza through Rafah.

The problem is, they have no way of getting there, and even if they did, the fighting is ongoing.

An impossible situation.

We need a ceasefire now.

10:58 AM GMT

UK agency reports drone attack in Red Sea

An incident involving a drone in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen has been reported by the UK maritime trade operations agency.

The agency advised those in the area to exercise caution and report any suspicious activity.

The Iran-allied Houthi group has attacked shipping in the region recently intending to damage Israeli interests.

UKMTO ADVISORY 002/DEC/2023



INCIDENT

UKMTO has received a report of an incident involving a Uncrewed Aerial System (UAS) in the vicinity of position 1425N 04212E, 47nm west of port Hodeidah, Yemen.



2023 (https://t.co/5An1YH0JyE)#MaritimeSecurity #MarSec pic.twitter.com/u0CoqtPi48  United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) (@UK_MTO) December 6, 2023

10:34 AM GMT

Palestinians in Gaza living in 'utter, deepening horror'

Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip are living in utter, deepening horror, the UN human rights chief said Wednesday as he called for an urgent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

Civilians in Gaza continue to be relentlessly bombarded by Israel and collectively punished... Palestinians in Gaza are living in utter, deepening horror, Volker Turk told a press conference.

10:23 AM GMT

Four people shot during Israeli raids in West Bank

Four people were wounded during Israeli raids in the Balata refugee camp in the West Bank city of Nablus.

One man was shot in the head and remains in a critical condition, according to Ahmed Jibril, the director of the Red Crescent Ambulance and Emergency Centre in Nablus.

Three other men were also shot but remain in a stable condition.

One Palestinian was arrested by Israeli forces before they withdrew from the camp, locals have claimed.

10:09 AM GMT

Israeli army says 'Red Cross must have access to hostages' in Gaza

The Israeli army said Wednesday that the International Committee of the Red Cross must have access to the hostages still being held by Palestinian militants in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip.

As the IDF (military) expands its operations to dismantle Hamas in Gaza, we have not lost sight... of our critical mission to rescue our hostages, army spokesman Daniel Hagari said.

The international community must take action. The Red Cross must have access to the hostages that are in the hands of Hamas.

09:48 AM GMT

Israel cautions against reports of child hostage's death

Israel has cautioned against believing Hamas reports that the youngest hostage had been killed alongside his four-year-old brother and their mother.

Ten-month-old Kfir Bibas was allegedly killed during an IDF strike on Gaza, but there has been no further confirmation of this and Israels military in still uncertain about their fate.

Speaking to The Jerusalem Post, spokesperson Lt Col Peter Lerner said:

We cant confirm at this stage what Hamas said, and Id be very cautious in accepting anything that Hamas says to begin with. Of course, you know, were utilizing our intelligence in order to try and determine their situation. I dont have anything to report at this stage.

Lerner added that Israel is concerned about the well-being of the hostages still held in Gaza and demanded that the Red Cross be able to assess them.

09:40 AM GMT

Supplies at al-Aqsa Hospital at 'critical level'

Supplies at al-Aqsa Hospital in central Gaza are at critically low levels due to road enclosures despite hundreds of patients being admitted per day, according to Doctors Without Borders (MSF).

The hospital, which is running out of both fuel and medical supplies, has been receiving 150 to 200 wounded patients since the truce ended on Friday, its director has said.

Marie-Aure Perreaut Revial, the MSF emergency coordinator in Gaza, said:

There are 700 patients admitted in the hospital now, with new patients arriving all the time. We are running out of essential supplies to treat them. Shortages of medicine and fuel could result in the hospital being unable to provide life-saving surgeries or intensive care. Without electricity, ventilators would cease to function, blood donations would have to stop, the sterilisation of surgical instruments would be impossible. It is vital that the supply of humanitarian supplies is facilitated. The hospital urgently needs surgical sets, external fixators to hold broken bones together, and essential drugs, including drugs for chronic illnesses.

09:23 AM GMT

Israel issues fresh evacuation orders

Israel has warned displaced people east of Khan Younis to evacuate immediately.

Palestinians located in shelters and schools located in the Bani Suhaila roundabout and four of their designated blocks  50, 51, 52 and 219 - were directed to leave on Wednesday.

COGAT, a branch of Israels defence ministry, told residents to evacuate along l-Quds Street to the shelters in the west of Khan Younis and the Nasser Medical Complex area.

It said that the Israeli army is responding with extreme force against Hamas in the area.

09:13 AM GMT

Gaza health officials claim 45 civilians killed in Israeli strike

Gaza health officials said many civilians were killed in an Israeli strike on houses in Deir al-Balah, north of Khan Younis.

Dr Eyad Al-Jabri, head of the Shuhada Al-Aqsa Hospital there, told Reuters at least 45 people were killed.

Hamas media office said on Tuesday at least 16,248 people including 7,112 children and 4,885 women had been killed in Gaza by Israels military since October 7.

Thousands more are missing and feared buried under rubble.

Those figures were not immediately verified by the Gaza health ministry.

09:00 AM GMT

Pictured: Israeli assaults on Gaza

Israel launched one of its heaviest assaults on Gaza yet overnight.

IDF photos - IDF

IDF forces in Gaza - IDF

IDF forces in Gaza - IDF

08:50 AM GMT

Hamas kidnap victim in 'serious condition'

Hanna Katzi, one of the hostages released by Hamas last month, is in a serious condition after her health deteriorated following captivity.

The Times of Israel reports that on army radio, the daughter of the 77-year-old said My mothers condition is serious, her condition has deteriorated following the captivity.

She had no heart problems when she was kidnapped, but now she has severe heart problems due to harsh conditions and starvation.

She came back both heartbroken and with cardiological problems.

It is thought that her son Elad remains in captivity in Gaza.

08:39 AM GMT

Israel reviewing strike that harmed Lebanese troops

The Israeli army said on Wednesday it was reviewing a strike that harmed Lebanese troops in south Lebanon, an apparent reference to Israeli shelling that killed a Lebanese soldier and wounded three others the previous day.

The Lebanese Armed Forces were not the target of the strike. The IDF expresses regret over the incident. The incident is under review, the Israeli military said in a statement.

Israel and the heavily armed Lebanese group Hezbollah have been exchanging fire across the Lebanese-Israeli border since October 7.

The Lebanese army said the soldier, a sergeant, was killed when an army position was shelled by Israel on Tuesday.

The Israeli army said its soldiers had acted in self-defense to eliminate an imminent threat that had been identified from Lebanon from a known launch area and observation point used by Hezbollah.

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6)  Popular on-screen and real-life partners Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla dominated Google search in the country last week, according to Google Philippines on Tuesday.

This was days before and after the two confirmed the end of their 11-year relationship on Thursday, Nov. 30, shocking their huge fandom and fellow celebrities.

"It didn't take long for this major development to arouse the interest of fans and netizens, as they instantly took to Google Search to look up everything about Bernardo, Padilla, and the KathNiel love team," said Google Philippines.

"KathNiel" and other topics related to their breakup were also consistently trending in various social media platforms for days.

According to the tech firm, it has been the most searched on Google since 2011 both locally and globally, and even on YouTube.

The latest trend was also the highest interest the pair had in the search engine for the last five years, it added.

Google Philippines said the "KathNiel" trend has been brewing steadily over the past few weeks and started shooting up after talent manager Ogie Diaz teased the couple's alleged split in early November.

Google Trends is a keyword research tool that analyzes a sample of Google web searches to determine how many searches were done over a certain period.
Jamie Foxx reflected on surviving a medical emergency earlier this year during an emotional speech at an awards show in Los Angeles on Monday.

In April, the actor was admitted to hospital over a mysterious medical complication, according to a statement at the time from his daughter, Corinne.

As reported by People, Foxx welled up as he told the LA audience: I want to thank everybody. Ive been through something. Ive been through some things. Its crazy, I couldnt do that six months ago. I couldnt actually walk too...

Foxx was accepting the Vanguard Award for his performance in The Burial at the Critics Choice Associations Celebration of Cinema & Television: Honoring Black, Latino and AAPI Achievements.

It feels good to be here. I cherish every single minute now. Its different. Its different, Foxx continued. I wouldnt wish what I went through on my worst enemy, because its tough when you almost... When its almost over, when you see the tunnel...

I saw the tunnel. I didnt see the light! he joked. It was hot in that tunnel so I didnt know where I was going. S***, am I going to the right place? I seen the devil goin Cmon, now.

Black people, when we almost die or go through something like that, theres two phrases, one of two phrases we say, Foxx continued. One is, Lord, have mercy, Jesus. Lord, have mercy, Jesus.

Jamie Foxx in 2022 (AP)

After thanking the team behind The Burial, Foxx concluded his speech: I want to say six months ago I couldnt fathom that this could happen or that I would be here, but as I walk up here to this microphone and get this Vanguard Award, all I can say is Lord, have mercy, Jesus. 

Last month, Foxx moved to deny sexual assault allegations that arrived in the week ahead of New Yorks Adult Survivors Act (ASA) expiring on Friday, 24 November.

The ASA provided a one-year window for survivors of assault to come forward, regardless of when the assault took place.

In new court documents, seen by The Independent, the plaintiff referred to as Jane Doe accuses Foxx (real name Eric Marlon Bishop) of assaulting her at the Catch restaurant rooftop in New York City in August 2015.

Foxx denies the allegation and intends to issue a countersuit against the Jane Doe. His spokesperson told The Independent in a statement: The alleged incident never happened. In 2020, this individual filed a nearly identical lawsuit in Brooklyn. That case was dismissed shortly thereafter. The claims are no more viable today than they were then. We are confident they will be dismissed again. And once they are, Mr Foxx intends to pursue a claim for malicious prosecution against this person and her attorneys for re-filing this frivolous action.
A concept model of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP)'s fighter jet is displayed at the DSEI Japan defense show at Makuhari Messe in Chiba

By Tim Kelly

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan, Britain and Italy will sign a treaty in Tokyo next week to establish a joint organisation and industry group for developing their planned advanced jet fighter, three sources with direct knowledge of the plans said.

An inter-government body will oversee the industry group venture led by Britain's BAE Systems PLC, Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Italy's Leonardo. That group will distribute work to teams in different parts of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), such as the engine and avionics, the sources said.

They asked not to be identified because they are not authorised to speak to the media.

Reuters in March reported that Japan and Britain would dominate GCAP, with about a 40% share of the work each. Rome dismissed that as "speculative".

Japan's defence ministry declined to comment. Officials at the British and Italian embassies did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The agreement, which parliaments of each country must ratify, will come a year after they established their first major defence industry collaboration by merging the separate next-generation fighter efforts of London and Tokyo.

Someone from Japan may lead the project initially, and the management will rotate among the three countries, two of the sources said. Japan's leading candidate for that job is Masami Oka, and adviser to the defence ministry who retired as vice minister of international affairs in July, they added.

Oka did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The three countries plan to choose Britain as GCAP's headquarters, Reuters reported in September.

GCAP may also welcome other nations as junior partners, with Saudi Arabia among the contenders because it would bring money and a lucrative market to a project expected to cost tens of billions of dollars.

Other companies involved in the project include European missile maker MBDA, Japanese avionics manufacturer Mitsubishi Electric Corp, and engine makers Rolls-Royce PLC, IHI Corp, and Avio Aero.

(Reporting by Tim Kelly; Additional reporting by Yukiko Toyoda; Editing by Gerry Doyle)
Democratic Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington state said Tuesday that she unequivocally condemns Hamas use of rape and sexual violence as an act of war, following comments she made to CNNs Dana Bash on Sunday that set off a firestorm among her Democratic colleagues in the House.

Let me be completely clear again that I unequivocally condemn Hamas use of rape and sexual violence as an act of war, Jayapal said in her latest statement. This is horrific and across the world, we must stand with our sisters, families, and survivors of rape and sexual assault everywhere to condemn this violence and hold perpetrators accountable.

While Jayapal, who is chairwoman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, condemned the rape of Israeli women by Hamas and called it horrific on CNNs State of the Union on Sunday, she pointed out that over 15,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli attacks in Gaza since the start of the war and said, I think we have to be balanced about bringing in the outrages against Palestinians.

In her statement Tuesday, Jayapal said her comment about balance was not about rape, and not intended to minimize rape and sexual assault in any way.

It was about recognizing the tremendous pain and trauma of so manyIsraelis, Palestinians and their diaspora communitiesin this terrible war, Jayapal stated.

The congresswoman continued, I understand that I have critics who disagree with me on policy, but for them to insinuate that I would think, say or act in any way that equivocates on rape is outrageous and completely inconsistent with my record and lifes work. It also deeply hurts the ability to have meaningful conversations about critical issues.

Jayapals comments speak to the broader divisions within the Democratic Party over how to address the war between Israel and Hamas. Democrats have struggled to reconcile support for Israels right to defend itself in the wake of the October 7 attacks and rising protests, especially on the left, over the devastation in Gaza.

President Joe Biden decried the sexual assaults committed by Hamas during a fundraising event in Boston, calling it appalling and saying that its on all of us  to forcibly condemn the sexual violence of Hamas terrorists without equivocation.

Over the past few weeks, survivors and witnesses of the attacks have shared the horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty. Reports of women raped  repeatedly raped  and their bodies being mutilated while still alive  of women corpses being desecrated, Hamas terrorists inflicting as much pain and suffering on women and girls as possible and then murdering them. It is appalli ng, he said.

The House passed a Republican-led resolution on Tuesday condemning antisemitism in the United States and globally. A number of Democrats, however, expressed concern that the language of the GOP resolution is overly broad and would effectively define any criticism of the Israeli government or its policies as antisemitism.

Separately, Democratic Reps. Lois Frankel of Florida and Debbie Dingell of Michigan are planning on introducing a resolution this week condemning Hamas use of sexual violence and rape against Israeli women. A source familiar with Frankels thinking told CNN combating rape as a weapon of war is a long-standing priority for the congresswoman and the resolution was not drafted as a response to any comments made by other members.

This story has been updated with additional details.

CNNs Annie Grayer contributed to this report.

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Jeff Bezos should pay up for using the Amazon's name, says this Brazilian governor

The governor of Brazil's Amazonas state wants Jeff Bezos to pay royalties for using the Amazon name.

He posted a video on Instagram addressing Bezos, from the perspective of the Amazon rainforest.

"If your company is the most valuable of all, I would say I am priceless," said the video.

The governor of Brazil's Amazonas state is asking Jeff Bezos to pay royalties for using the rainforest's name for his company.

Wilson Lima told Brazilian news outlet O Globo: "Amazon uses the name of Amazonas, uses the name of Amazonia. How much do we get for this? We want to know."

Lima said he intended to raise the issue at the COP28 climate summit being held in Dubai.

The politician also took his message to Instagram, sharing a video addressing Bezos from the perspective of the Amazon rainforest: "You deliver millions of products and have the largest logistics park in the world. And me? I clean the air for the whole planet and I have the world's largest biodiversity and rainforest."

"If your company is the most valuable of all, I would say I am priceless, And since you use my name and I've never earned anything from it, I invite you to come here to get to know better, Jeff," said the narrator, in Portuguese.

The Amazon rainforest is sometimes called the earth's "lungs" because it absorbs vast amounts of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming.

It also contains 10% of the world's known animal species and the Amazon biome covers about 2.5 million square miles, or roughly nine times the size of Texas.

Deforestation has resulted in the loss of nearly a fifth of the rainforest over the last 50 years, according to the World Wildlife Fund.

Bezos' net worth jumped $64 billion this year to $171 billion, making him the world's second-wealthiest person, per the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. The company he founded, which is valued at $1.5 trillion, was named after the Amazon river.

The billionaire founder contributed $10 billion in 2020 to his Bezos Earth Fund to tackle climate change. In June, the fund teamed up with Leonardo DiCaprio to launch a $200 million initiative for protecting the Amazon rainforest.

On Saturday, Brazil unveiled a new $205 million fund to preserve the Amazon rainforest at the COP28 summit.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Over the past decade, no legal scholar has pushed arguments for free speech as far or as influentially as today's guest: Jeff Kosseff, a former journalist who now teaches cybersecurity law at the U.S. Naval Academy. In previous books, he defended Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act in The Twenty-Six Words That Created the Internet and stood up for anonymous speech in The United States of Anonymous: How the First Amendment Shaped Online Speech.

His new book is his boldest yet. It's called Liar in a Crowded Theater: Freedom of Speech in a World of Misinformation and I liked it so much that I blurbed it, calling it "a smart, wry, deeply researched and utterly convincing defense of legal protections for 'misinformation' in an age when we are less likely to agree on basic facts than ever before."

We talk about why "misinformation"however definedshould be legally protected, how the boundaries between private companies and government are getting blurrier and blurrier, and why so many journalists are calling for limits on the First Amendment.

Today's sponsors:

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The Reason Speakeasy. The Reason Speakeasy is a monthly, unscripted conversation in New York City with outspoken defenders of free thinking and heterodoxy that doubles as a live taping of The Reason Interview with Nick Gillespie. Go here to listen to past Speakeasy events and go here to learn about upcoming ones, including one on Tuesday, December 12 with Stanford historian Jennifer Burns, whose new book is The Last Conservative, a highly praised biography of Milton Friedman.

The post Jeff Kosseff: Why False Speech Deserves First Amendment Protections appeared first on Reason.com.
Hendersonville City Councilwoman Jennifer Hensley announced Dec. 3 in an email to the Times-News that she will be seeking reelection.

Hensley, who moved to Hendersonville in 2003, was elected in 2019. She is the owner of Well-Adjusted Chiropractic, Acupuncture and Massage.

Hendersonville City Council Member Jennifer Hensley poses with her husband, Kevin, her daughter, Shelby, and her son, Enzo.

To kick off her campaign, she wrote the following letter to the city's residents:

Dear Hendersonville,

When I was elected as a councilwoman four years ago, I had no idea how much more my love for this community could grow. I first fell in love with this special place while visiting family here as a child. Twenty years ago, I moved to Hendersonville as a recent college graduate, met the love of my life, have had two amazing children, and with the support of this community, have created asuccessful small business. My children also get to see their mom help lead one of the best cities in the U.S.

I am grateful but want to continue to make them proud. I am honored to be a role model for my children and this communitys children so they know that women can do it all. Many of us have come to Hendersonville within the last five, 10 or 20 years, like myself, or are lucky enough to have been born here. We may be different in many ways, but we all share our love for this community.

More: A familiar face takes City Council seat formerly held by Jerry Smith

Truth is, Im not finished. I have spearheaded several projects and as a leader, want to see them through and come to fruition. We are beginning the third of four phases of our Comprehensive Plan. This entails planning how to manage our growing community, while also maintaining the beauty, character, safety and high quality of life that we are all fortunate enough to enjoy. A major component of our Comprehensive Plan is the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. My vision is to keep Hendersonville green and provide opportunities for active and healthy lifestyles for generations to come.

Our first Splash Pad is being built next year with plans being finalized as I speak. We have allocated funds to build pickleball courts in Patton Park. The construction of Ecusta Trail has begun and will continue with the opening of this landmark project set for 2024. We have approved several workforce housing developments, and I will continue pursuing partnerships with Henderson County and other organizations such as Housing Assistance Corporation, so that our police, firefighters, gas station employees, teachers, nurses and single parents can afford to live and work here. I plan to establish an affordable housing conservation program to help folks get a start in the American dream of home ownership.

Scheduled Infrastructure improvements include upgrading our roads and sidewalks. ChurchStreet is on DOTs paving schedule for 2024, and King St, another DOT project, is being completed this winter. I serve as vice chair of the French Broad Metropolitan Planning Organization, and my advocacy on that board helps keep Hendersonville at the table with regional funding opportunities for our local community.

Our amazing city staff is pursuing grants for stormwater management and water/sewer improvements. I want to continue supporting them in their efforts to seek, procure and implement strategic and impactful upgrades to our existing public works systems. Construction of our citys newest fire station is underway, and I am excited to see it open for operation in 2024. This project will allow our first responders to better serve the residents of Hendersonville.

More: Hendersonville City Council votes on location of the city's first splash pad

I applaud and will continue to support our technologically-advanced media and public communications team in their mission to expand reporting to the public with transparency and accuracy. Our city staff work so diligently, and I will always advocate for them to be paid fairly andequitably to allow them the opportunity to live, work and prosper here in Hendersonville.

I plan to continue working with other elected leaders to give more opportunities to our children. Ihelped to establish a program with partnerships from the Henderson County Public school system, YMCA and Henderson County to ensure every second grader in Henderson County learns how to swim for free.

My position on the North Carolina Board of Social Services allows me to fight for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Those folks are our precious children, elderly and disabled, and they deserve a leader who will show up for them every single day.

On the state level, I am a proponent for diversification of our citys revenue sources. I want the people who enjoy visiting Hendersonville to contribute and support our budget for services andto reduce the tax impact for our residents. I helped establish the animal services advisory committee to review and update ordinances and policies to protect and support our furry friends and the residents who love them.

I will continue my support of The Partnership for Economic Development to support smallbusinesses and bring healthy industry and higher paying jobs to Hendersonville and HendersonCounty.

Since being elected to the City of Hendersonville City Council in 2019, my family, small business and life have continued to grow, with grace and many blessings ... so has the city of Hendersonville. With growth comes challenges. I am asking you to allow me to continue guiding this growth by serving Hendersonville for four more years as your City Council member. I promise to work hard for you every single day.

With highest regards,Dr. Jennifer HensleyWife, Mom, Chiropractor, and Hendersonville City Councilwoman

This article originally appeared on Hendersonville Times-News: Jennifer Hensley seeks another Hendersonville City Council term
Delegates to COP28 call for gathering wisdom, strength to advance global energy transition

Xinhua) 08:15, December 06, 2023

China's special envoy for climate change Xie Zhenhua addresses an energy-themed gathering in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, Dec. 5, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Dongzhen)

Addressing an energy-themed gathering at the UN climate change conference, China's special envoy for climate change expressed the hope that wisdom and strength could be pooled to work out a solution to move beyond the stalemates toward energy transition goals.

DUBAI, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- More than 70 delegates to the UN climate change conference convened on Tuesday in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, to seek insights and solutions for an inclusive, just and resilient global energy transition.

The energy-themed gathering came as the climate talks at COP28, or the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), reached a stalemate over issues including energy transition.

The attendees, including the top Chinese climate envoy, senior UN officials, and energy officials of Egypt and Malawi, met on the sidelines of the ongoing UN climate summit and jointly called for further gathering wisdom and strength to advance the global energy transition.

Xin Baoan, chief of the Global Energy Interconnection Development and Cooperation Organization (GEIDCO) and executive chairman of State Grid Corporation of China, speaks at an energy-themed gathering in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, Dec. 5, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Dongzhen)

"We stand at a critical juncture in our shared journey towards a just and inclusive energy transition. It's evident that this formidable task cannot be achieved by any single organization or nation alone," said Rola Dashti, the executive secretary of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UNESCWA).

She stressed that, with united endeavors, the energy sector can be "transitioned from a challenge to a solution to meet climate goals."

Addressing the gathering, China's special envoy for climate change Xie Zhenhua expressed the hope that wisdom and strength could be pooled to work out a solution to move beyond the stalemates toward energy transition goals. He added it should be a pragmatic and exemplary solution that can be shared and replicated.

Rola Dashti, the executive secretary of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UNESCWA), speaks at an energy-themed gathering in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, Dec. 5, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Dongzhen)

The event was jointly held by the Global Energy Interconnection Development and Cooperation Organization (GEIDCO), the UNFCCC secretariat, UNESCWA, several other UN agencies, China's Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Egypt's Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy, and World Meteorological Organization, etc.

At the event, a research report on solutions and practices for inclusive, just and resilient energy transition was issued by GEIDCO. Its chief Xin Baoan, also executive chairman of State Grid Corporation of China, said energy development is facing many challenges globally, such as huge pressure for energy supply and security, tough tasks in transforming traditional industries, and unbalanced regional development.

Visitors pose for photos at the Green Zone of the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, Dec. 3, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Dongzhen)

He highlighted a systematic approach and a focus on correlations between security and transition, development and emission reduction, and stocks and increments to advance high-quality energy transition.

The Beijing-based GEIDCO, established in 2016, is a China-proposed global energy body. It now has 1,305 members from 142 countries. Setting up seven regional offices globally, the organization has been promoting sustainable energy development worldwide with a focus on energy interconnection across regions.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 5)  The Department of Agriculture (DA) is eyeing to limit the importation of sugar to 200,000 metric tons in 2024, saying there are still stocks of the commodity in Philippine markets.

DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Tuesday assured lawmakers that the DA feels that next year "we don't need to import too much sugar," based on estimates agreed upon during the department's meeting with the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA).

"Because this year medyo naparami nang onti ang importation ng sugar, marami pang stocks ngayon sa market," he said.

"Assessment ng industry and DA with SRA maybe, conservatively, kailangan mag-import ng 200,000 metric tons lang assuming there are no adverse weather conditions that we will face," he added.

[Translation: The country imported sugar in excess this year and many stocks remain in the market. The assessment of the industry and DA with SRA is maybe, conservatively, we will need to import only 200,000 metric tons assuming there are no adverse weather conditions that we will face.]

Laurel's figure countered the estimate of SAGIP Party-list Rep. Rodante Marcoleta, who feared that the government may import 500,000 metric tons of sugar next year.

Marcoleta raised the issue as a panel of the Commission on Appointments (CA) deliberated on Tuesday the appointment of Laurel as DA Secretary. Laurel was confirmed during the CA's plenary session on the same day.

The lawmaker advised the agri chief to temper his expectations because only five out of 27 sugar mills in the country could be called "efficient."

Marcoleta said the five mills can have a milling recovery of 1.81 kilograms, which was something lower than Thailand's 2.1 kilograms.

He also called on the DA to conduct an audit on the production of sugar mills, to which Laurel agreed.

Fact-finding mission for sugar fiasco

The DA has been investigated for various sugar importation orders over the past year.

In February, Sen. Risa Hotiveros claimed a shipment of sugar in 260 20-foot containers arrived in Batangas ahead of the effectivity of Sugar Order No. 6, alleging that the state may have participated in "government-sponsored smuggling."

The order allowed the importation of 440,000 metric tons of the commodity and only granted three importers to cover the whole importation.

RELATED: Marcos ordered to get sugar 'through selected importers' DA senior official

Laurel said he was briefed on the order last week, and his immediate action on the issue was the conduct of a fact-finding mission.

"Once it comes out, I will have to review it strictly and strengthen it, see that the system is strengthened, and put control measures in the system para ma-avoid 'yong [to avoid a] similar problem in the future," he said, adding that he would ensure accountability.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 5)  President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed two bills on Tuesday in a bid to accelerate the country's move towards a digital economy.

The Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code of the Philippines and Internet Transactions Act of 2023 were signed by Marcos while in isolation for COVID-19.

The PPP Code, or Republic Act 11966, was certified as urgent by the president in June and was ratified by the Senate in September.

A statement from the Presidential Communications Office said it will establish a "stable and predictable environment for collaboration between the public and private sectors to address the gaps in the infrastructure systems and also free up much-needed resources to enable the government to pursue other equally important projects and initiatives."

Republic Act No. 11967, or the Internet Transactions Act of 2023, meanwhile, will give the public the tools to participate in the digital economy. It is among the priority legislations of the government.

It will allow for the protection of consumers and merchants while using e-commerce as a tool for development.
More than 100 House Democrats on Tuesday declined to vote for a resolution condemning antisemitism over language that equates it with anti-Zionism.

The final vote was 311-14, with 13 Democrats and one Republican voting against the resolution and 92 Democrats voting "present" on it, amounting to 105 Democrats ultimately deciding not to support it, Business Insider reports.

Ahead of the vote this week, progressive and Jewish groups condemned the resolution, which draws on the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's controversial working definition of antisemitism.

A new House resolution, which may be voted on as early as tonight, "clearly and firmly states that anti-Zionism is antisemitism." This comes after a previous resolution hinted at that claim, but did not fully state it. So now Congress wants to leave no question.



But there's an pic.twitter.com/0N39JvQ0Fg  Ryan Grim (@ryangrim) December 4, 2023

On Monday, Democratic Rep. Jerry Nadler, N.Y., the senior Jewish member of the chamber, spoke out against the resolution in a floor speech. He later encouraged his colleagues to vote "present."

"The resolution states that all anti-Zionism is antisemitism," Nadler said. "That's either intellectually disingenuous or just factually wrong."

While many view anti-Zionism as a form of antisemitism, they are two distinct ideologies. Antisemitism refers to both historical and contemporary prejudice and discrimination against Jewish people, while anti-Zionism is opposition to the state of Israel's existence.

The Anti-Defamation League, a Jewish civil rights organization that is staunchly pro-Israel, argues that anti-Zionism is antisemitic because it "renders Jews less worthy of sovereignty and nationhood than other peoples and states."

Nadler, however, noted that many of his former constituents in Brooklyn, including Orthodox Jewish communities, have long held anti-Zionist views, believing that the modern, secular state of Israel butts up against religious prophesies about the return of Jews to the Land of Israel.

"While most anti-Zionism is indeed antisemitic, the authors, if they were at all familiar with Jewish history and culture, should know about Jewish anti-Zionism that was, and is, expressly NOT antisemitic," Nadler said, according to a transcript of his floor speech. "This resolution ignores the fact that even today, certain orthodox Hasidic Jewish communitiesthe Satmars in New York and othersas well as adherents of the pre-state Jewish labor movement have held views that are at odds with the modern Zionist conception."

These ultra-orthodox Hasidic Jews believe that only the messiah can bring about the true Israel, Nadler added, citing the Jewish Encyclopedia and emphasizing that the Satmars are not antisemitic.

"I should also note that there are those who try to smear even progressive pro-Israel supporters with the inappropriate label of 'Israel hater' or 'anti-Zionist,'" Nadler said. "Under this resolution, those who love Israel deeply but criticize some of its policy approaches could be considered anti-Zionist. That could make every Democratic Jewish member of this bodybecause they all criticized the recent Israeli judicial reform packagede facto antisemites. Might that be the authors intention?"

Many progressive Jews, including the group Jewish Voice for Peace, also describe themselves as anti-Zionist.

"Again, let me be unequivocally clear: most anti-Zionism, particularly in this moment, has a real antisemitism problem," Nadler continued. "But we cannot fairly say that one equals the other."

Rep. Nadler: "The resolution states that all anti-Zionism is antisemitism. That's intellectually disingenuous or factually wrongThe authors if they were at all familiar with Jewish history & culture should know about Jewish anti-Zionism that was + is expressly not antisemitic." https://t.co/cjTReBocKW pic.twitter.com/hsrljJcj04  Prem Thakker (@prem_thakker) December 4, 2023

Nadler on Monday introduced his own resolution on antisemitism, arguing that it better addresses the problem than the Republican-proposed resolution. Tuesday's resolution was sponsored by Rep. David Kustoff of Tennessee, one of two Jewish Republicans in the House of Representatives.

Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Wis., a leading House progressive, told Business Insider earlier Tuesday that he was unsure how he would vote on the resolution and expressed frustration with the breadth of pro-Israel resolutions that have come to the floor in recent months.

"I have to admit, I'm kind of over the weekly stuff that they're putting out there that means nothing," Pocan said, adding he was unsure whether to "start doing 'present' votes on stupid things, or just vote 'no' on stupid things, or just say 'yes' because they're stupid things."

Last week, the House voted on a resolution affirming Israel's right to exist. Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., voted against it and Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., voted "present."

Massie was also the only Republican member of Congress to vote against Tuesday's resolution before which he posted a Drake meme that prompted one White House spokesman to accuse him of "virulent antisemitism."

All Americans - including @HouseGOP leadership - should condemn this virulent Antisemitism from a sitting member of Congress. https://t.co/HHEWFklIEf  Herbie Ziskend (@HerbieZiskend46) December 5, 2023

Ninety-five Democrats voted for the resolution anyway, including Ohio Rep. Greg Landsman, one of more than two dozen Jewish representatives.

"It is of course fine to criticize any government, including Israel's," Landsman told Business Insider. "But I do believe that denying Jews a state is antisemitic, so I plan to vote for the bill. There are misunderstandings about antisemitism and a lack of appreciation for its rise. I hope my explanation helps folks better navigate all of this."

The 13 Democrats who voted against the resolution are Reps. Tlaib; Jamaal Bowman, N.Y.; Cori Bush, Mo.; Gerry Connolly, Va.; Jesus "Chuy" Garcia, Ill.; Raul Grijalva, Ariz.; Pramila Jayapal, Wash.; Summer Lee, Pa.; Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, N.Y.; Ilhan Omar, Minn.; Ayanna Pressley, Mass.; Delia Ramirez, Ill.; and Bonnie Watson Coleman, N.J.

"This extreme and cynical Republican resolution does nothing to combat antisemitism, relies on a definition that conflates criticism of the Israeli government with antisemitism, paints critics of the Israeli government as antisemites, and falsely states that anti-Zionism is antisemitism," Omar said in a statement about her vote, per Common Dreams. "We must stand against any attempt to define legitimate criticism of this war and the government perpetrating it as antisemitism."

After the vote, Bowman said that, while he "strongly condemn[s] antisemitism and hate in all of its forms," he voted against Tuesday's resolution because "it fuels division and violence, conflates criticism of the Israeli government with antisemitism, and ignores one of the greatest threats to the Jewish community, white nationalism."

Rep. Bush echoed Nadler's remarks during his floor speech in a post to X, formerly Twitter, explaining her reasoning for voting against the resolution.

".@RepJerryNadler is right," she wrote. "H.Res.894 doesnt protect our Jewish neighbors facing alarming rises in antisemitism. I opposed it because it dangerously conflates criticism of the far-right Israeli government with antisemitism. We need genuine action, not political games."

.@RepJerryNadler is right. H.Res.894 doesnt protect our Jewish neighbors facing alarming rises in antisemitism.



I opposed it because it dangerously conflates criticism of the far-right Israeli government with antisemitism.



We need genuine action, not political games. https://t.co/NDxsA07rj8  Congresswoman Cori Bush (@RepCori) December 5, 2023

Bowman and Omar are among the House progressives facing legitimate primary challenges in the next election cycle, in part because of their criticism of the Israeli government and its bombardment of Gaza, which has killed almost 16,000 Palestinians in less than two months, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry.

They joined Bush, Lee, Massie, Ocasio-Cortez, Ramirez, Tlaib and Reps. Andre Carson, D-Ind., and Al Green, D-Texas, in opposing a bipartisan resolution in October, which asserted the House unconditionally "stands with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists" and did not mention the suffering of Palestinians.

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

J Street, a progressive pro-Israel organization, vehemently condemned the rise in antisemitism but criticized the resolution's conflation of all anti-Zionism with antisemitism in a Tuesday statement.

"While we will never waver in calling out antisemitism from any corner, we have been equally clear that not all beliefs, statements and actions that are anti-Zionist are also antisemitic," the organization wrote.

"Unfortunately, while the Kustoff-Miller resolution (H.Res.894) rightly denounces antisemitism, supports the Jewish community, and rejects terror, the resolution states 'clearly and firmly' that 'anti-Zionism is antisemitism'  a blanket, inaccurate and ultimately counterproductive statement with no recognition of the complexities of the Jewish people or the definition of Zionism and anti-Zionism itself," J Street continued.

The organization pointed to Jewish communities who do not support the Zionist movement and the way efforts to codify definitions of antisemitism would "legally define some Constitutionally protected speech on Israel and its policies as antisemitic" as reasons why it opposed Tuesday's resolution and will oppose any future provisions attempting to legislate a single definition of antisemitism. Instead, J Street voiced strong support for Nadler's resolution.

It also condemned the "concurrent rise in bigotry and deadly violence" against Palestinian-Americans and others of Palestinian heritage in the U.S, referencing "the brutal murder" of a 6-year-old Palestinian-American boy in October and the recent shooting of three Palestinian college students late last month.

"Just like the human security of Israelis and Palestinians is inextricably intertwined in Israel and Palestine, so too is the safety of Jewish and Palestinian communities here in the United States in no small part bound together," J Street wrote. "None of us are truly safe until all of us  all Americans and others who call our country home  need not live in fear of bigotry."
Just in time for Christmas, a Kentucky distillery has released the latest in its Very Olde St. Nick whiskey series.

Preservation Distillery + Farm in Bardstown is releasing Very Old St. Nicks Notorious O.S.N., which is a blend of vintage casks released at 16 years and cask-strength 112.5 proof that is a flavor explosion, according to the news release, heavy on the nose with flavors across the spectrum. Its priced at $758.

The second release is Very Olde St. Nick Straight Outta Bardstown, a 9-year-old Kentucky bourbon at 130+ proof. Its a single barrel release with remarkable depth of flavor, according to the tasting notes. Its priced at $499.

Olde St. Nick bottles are unconventional bottlings, flavor-forward, intense and complex bourbons and whiskeys.

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Preservation Distillery + Farm in Bardstown has released Very Old St. Nicks Notorious O.S.N., which is a blend of vintage casks released at 16 years and cask-strength 112.5 proof that is a flavor explosion, according to the news release, heavy on the nose with flavors across the spectrum.

The brand was created in 1986 and has been under the same ownership for more than 35 years. Olde St. specializes is small releases of vintages stocks produced in extremely small batches, according to the distillery.

Each release is made from 1-3 barrels, typically, with hand-designed labels and wax-topped bottles.

Both are currently available only at the distillery.

Very Olde St. Nick Straight Outta Bardstown is a 9-year-old Kentucky bourbon at 130+ proof. Its a single barrel release with remarkable depth of flavor, according to the tasting notes.

Preservation Distillery + Farm was founded in 2015 by Marci Palatella, a former wine and spirits industry executive, on a 40-acre former tobacco farm that is home to a family-owned, pot distilling craft producer. Other distillery products include Rare Perfection, Wattie Boone & Sons, Pure Antique and Old Man Winter.

Palatella specialized in selling American whiskey to European and Japanese markets. Eventually she created her own brands and worked with Julian Van Winkle III, founder of the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery, and Even Kulsveen, owner of Willett Distillery, to acquire and bottle American whiskey.

Now she operates her own sustainably sourced distillery, which produces four to 10 barrels daily, according to the distillery.
The Justice Department unsealed additional charges Tuesday against Manuel Rocha, the former US ambassador to Bolivia accused of acting as a secret foreign agent of Cuba.

A new indictment unsealed Tuesday charges Rocha with 15 counts, including new charges for wire fraud and making false statements to investigators. Prosecutors allege that the 73-year-old former American diplomat acted as a covert agent of Cubas intelligence services for decades.

Rocha has pleaded not guilty.

Rocha served in various roles with the State Department for decades, according to prosecutors. In 1982, Rocha began as a political officer at the US Embassy in the Dominican Republic. He then worked in Honduras, Mexico, Argentina, and as the political officer at the US Embassy in the Dominican Republic  a role that prosecutors say gave him special responsibility for Cuba.

He also served as the US ambassador to Bolivia from 2000 to 2002, and as an adviser to the commander of the US militarys joint command of in the region, which included Cuba, from 2006 to 2012.

The newly unsealed indictment adds several additional allegations against Rocha, including that he allegedly praised another US government employee who worked as an agent of Cuba. In secretly recorded conversations, Rocha allegedly discussed someone working with the Cuban government named Ana and said that sadly she would have done much more had she not been betrayed.

While court documents do not identify the individual, an American citizen named Ana Montes was convicted of spying for the Cuban government while working at the Pentagons Defense Intelligence Agency. She spent more than 20 years behind bars.

Prosecutors also said that the day Rocha was arrested, he was shown a picture of an undercover FBI employee whom he had allegedly met with several times. Investigators asked Rocha whether he knew the FBI employee, who had been posing as a member of Cuban intelligence during their meetings.

Rocha denied having ever met the FBI employee, according to court documents. He was then presented an image of himself and the FBI employee sitting together, prosecutors say, and Rocha then told investigators that he had met the employee once and didnt know who the employee was.

The meetings between Rocha and the FBI employee were recorded, according to court documents, including interactions where Rocha allegedly referred to the US as the enemy and praised Cuban revolutionary and politician Fidel Castro.

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EDWARDSVILLE, Kan.  Nearly a year after closing its doors, Roscoes Barbeque has announced it plans to reopen its Wyandotte County restaurant in January 2024.

Owners Roscoe and Mariann Davis announced back in January of this year that they had made the choice to retire and close after 13 years.

View the latest Weather Alerts in the Kansas City region on FOX4

It was announced just this week that while Roscoe and Mariann continue to enjoy retirement, their two sons, Roscoe III and Nick, have been working hard behind to scenes to bring this popular Kansas City BBQ and true hidden gem, known for its fall off the bone ribs and burnt ends, back to the metro.

Same great food, same great location and same great family environment! the family announced on Monday. We look forward to serving you January 2024!

Roscoe's Barbeque December 2023

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, a Kansas City Democrat, has voted for several House resolutions expressing support for Israel and denouncing antisemism.

But as the House voted on another resolution Tuesday  its third since Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7  Cleaver balked.

The U.S. House of Representatives has already taken votes on five resolutions supporting Israel or condemning antisemitism in April, May, July, October, and just last week, Cleaver said. It is clear that Republican House leaders are turning a serious issue into political theater, while taking no substantive action to combat antisemitism and instead further dividing an already divided nation.

The resolution, which passed 311-14, with 92 members voting present, includes a phrase saying the House clearly and firmly states that anti-Zionism is antisemitism, which drew opposition from some Democratic members. Zionism is the support for the existence of a Jewish nation, specifically Israel since its establishment following World War II.

Cleaver, along with 92 Democrats, including Rep. Sharice Davids, a Kansas Democrat, voted present instead of voting for or against the measure. Rep. Cori Bush, a St. Louis Democrat who is pushing for a ceasefire, voted against the resolution.

The resolution comes amid a rift in the Democratic Party over the war in Gaza. Many progressive activists are pushing for a ceasefire, while well-established pro-Israel groups are pushing lawmakers to continue to support Americas closest ally in the Middle East.

Cleaver, a pastor and civil rights leader who called ceasefire in exchange for the release of hostages, has largely been aligned with the Biden administrations approach to Israel  supporting humanitarian pauses, calling for fewer civilian casualties and pushing for Hamas to release hostages.

Fighting resumed Friday after a weeklong truce. While 100 hostages have been released, 140 hostages are still held by Hamas and other militant groups.

Congress has been unable to pass a bill that would provide military and humanitarian aid to Israel.

The Democratic-controlled Senate has tied the funding to aid for Ukraine and a potential compromise on stricter immigration laws, stalling the process. Senate Republicans planned to vote against a $110 billion measure on Wednesday that would have provided military and humanitarian aid but would not have included any changes to border policy.

In the meantime, both Republicans and Democrats have been vocal in opposing rising antisemitism. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat and the highest ranking Jewish member of Congress, gave a speech last week on the Senate floor condemning antisemitic attacks.

Several Jewish Democrats voted present instead of supporting the House resolution on Tuesday, including Rep. Jerry Nadler, a New York Democrat and the most senior Jewish member of the House. He made a speech condemning the resolution as a Republican effort to weaponize Jewish lives for political gain.

He said the line in the resolution saying all anti-Zionism is antisemitism was factually wrong.

While most anti-Zionism is indeed antisemitic, the authors, if they were at all familiar with Jewish history and culture, should know about Jewish anti-Zionism that was, and is, expressly not antisemitic, Nadler said. This resolution ignores the fact that even today, certain orthodox Hasidic Jewish communitiesthe Satmars in New York and othersas well as adherents of the pre-state Jewish labor movement have held views that are at odds with the modern Zionist conception.

Davids, who has quietly supported Israel since the Oct. 7 attack, has also voted for several resolutions condemning antisemitism and supporting Israel.

I strongly condemn all forms of antisemitism and voted to reaffirm Israels right to exist as recently as last week, Davids said. I support certain aspects of H.Res.894 but am concerned that some of the language was included for political gain rather than a genuine commitment to combating the spread of antisemitism.

The vote was quickly used by the National Republican Congressional Committee, which is targeting Davids in the 2024 election. Delanie Bomar, a spokeswoman for the NRCC, sent out a statement saying Davids refused to condemn antisemitism.

It shouldnt be hard to condemn antisemitism but apparently for Sharice Davids, its too heavy a lift, Bomar said. Voters in Kansas deserve better than this.
In the years before 5-year-old Grayson OConnor was found dead in the alley behind the downtown high-rise building where he lived, Kansas City police were called to his apartment at least eight times, according to records obtained by The Star and information from neighbors.

At the time of his death on Nov. 27, the boy and his mother were living on the 17th floor of the Grand Boulevard Lofts. Police have confirmed Grayson fell from an open window, though the cause of his death remained under investigation Tuesday.

Kansas City police have classified the investigation as a suspicious death, saying detectives believe the boy could have died as a result of child neglect or homicide. Exact circumstances surrounding his death remain unknown.

Sgt. Jake Becchina, a police spokesman, said in an email Tuesday that a case file had not been submitted to prosecutors for consideration of criminal charges.

Efforts by The Star to reach the boys mother have been unsuccessful. Neighbors say she has not been seen at the building since she was taken to a hospital last week.

Neighbors have told The Star the boys mother lived in the building for years, including one who recalled her living there since the time she was pregnant with Grayson. He was born in December 2017. Public records and Facebook posts further show the mother and son had lived at the building since at least 2019.

Grayson OConnor, 5, of Kansas City, is pictured in a photograph on March 26, 2023, while being looked after by a neighbor at the Grand Boulevard Lofts, 1006 Grand Boulevard. Grayson was found dead in an alley behind the building Nov. 27 of an unknown cause. His body fell from an open window on the 17th floor, where he lived, and police are investigating the case as a suspicious death.

Kansas City police on Tuesday shared a full list of calls to the entire apartment building at 1006 Grand Blvd. between May 2017 and Nov. 30.

The most recent call to Graysons apartment, according to police records, was on Jan. 14. It is described as a disturbance and standby to keep the peace.

In November 2021, police were also called to the apartment to check the welfare of an emotionally disturbed person who was threatening suicide.

Police were called there on five other recorded disturbances spanning from January 2019 until October 2020. The earliest call listed for The Stars requested time frame was Feb. 21, 2018, when officers were called to perform a residence check.

Records released to The Star contain little detail of the events that prompted the calls, or a description of their resolution, other than to list out cases in which a report was taken.

Many of the other calls provided in the records request only list the apartment building as an address and do not contain apartment numbers. Additionally, calls that fall outside the scope of required disclosure under Missouris Sunshine Law and involve law enforcement sensitive information were not included in the list provided to The Star.

One incident absent from the list of calls for service to the building is the medical call during which Grayson was found dead in the alley. And one of the neighbors who spoke to The Star recalled an incident involving Graysons apartment on a date in September that was not listed among the records police provided.

Kansas City police officers were on scene in an alley near 10th Street and Grand Boulevard where the body of child believed to be under 12-year-old was found dead on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, in downtown Kansas City. The police are investigating the incident as a suspicious death.

The latest information about police activities at the Kansas City apartment building where the boy lived comes as several neighbors have told The Star of concerns they had about Grayson over the years.

Those concerns included a lack of food in the apartment, loud and abusive yelling directed at Grayson and cases where he was left unsupervised. One neighbor has said she saw bruises on him that she suspected were caused by parental abuse.

Meanwhile, the sudden death of the boy has shaken a tight-knit group of building residents who say they looked out and cared for Grayson, along with others across Kansas City. Over the weekend, a memorial service was held in honor of Grayson near the place where he was found dead.

The Stars Laura Bauer contributed to this report.
A south-central Kansas public school choir teacher taught middle school students Christian worship songs centering around loving Jesus, such as Praise His Holy Name, and made students listen to Bible lessons, according to a national watchdog groups report.

The Freedom from Religion Foundation, a national nonprofit geared toward the separation of state and church, urged the district to stop the practice in late November after a concerned district parent reached out to them.

Its not a teachers job to convert a student to their religion, no matter what tools they use to do so, said FRF co-president Annie Laurie Gaylor in a news release.

The parent told the FRF that a teacher at Challenger Intermediate School in the Goddard school district had been teaching sixth-graders religious songs since late October, including Didnt My Lord Deliver Daniel.

Lyrics of the song Praise His Holy Name has such lines as Jesus, Jesus, how I love Thee! Shout Hallelujah! and Theres a cross for evryone and theres a cross for me.

Didnt My Lord Deliver Daniel is a song encouraging people to pray for salvation. The song includes such lines as The wind blows east and the wind blows west / It blows like the judgment day / And evry poor soul that never did pray / Will be glad to pray that day.

The teacher allegedly also taught lessons on the biblical story of Daniel, a story that is meant to encourage belief and worship of the Abrahamic God.

FRF legal fellow Samantha Lawrence sent district superintendent Justin Henry a letter warning of these constitutional violations on Nov. 29.

There is no need for a public intermediate school choral program to select religious worship music for students, and it is plainly unconstitutional for a public school choir teacher to teach students Bible lessons, Lawrence wrote.

By coercing sixth-grade students to sing overtly Christian worship music in its choral program, the district demonstrates favoritism towards religion over nonreligion, and Christianity over all other faiths, she added. This favoritism towards Christianity needlessly alienates all students and families, such as our complainant and their child, who do not subscribe to Christianity.

Henrys response to the letter, as reported by the FRF, was to inform the teacher of constitutional rights and violations.

Since receiving your email on Nov. 29, we have had the opportunity to provide (the teacher) this information and will be planning a meeting with all district choir instructors to ensure they understand the information, Henry said.

A spokesman for the district didnt immediately answer questions from Kansas Reflector.

This story was produced by the Kansas Reflector, a nonpartisan, nonprofit news organization covering state government, politics and policy.
Kelsey Grzib says she once found Grayson OConnor, the 5-year-old neighbor boy she watched grow up in her Kansas City high-rise building, alone at a bus stop.

He was filthy, Grzib recalled, and had a bruise on his face. She says she saw his mother walking in the opposite direction.

Grzib called the police, she said, and sat Grayson on her lap. Officers soon arrived and stopped his mom down the block, she said.

They talked to her for like an hour on the corner, Grzib, 35, a mother to an 11-year-old daughter, told The Star during a recent interview. They eventually realized that he couldnt go with her. So, I volunteered for him to come to my house.

That was the beginning of a four-day stint in late March when Grzib says Grayson stayed at her home until a social worker came and returned him to his mother  despite what she described as obvious signs of neglect and abuse.

Eight months later, on Nov. 27, Kansas City police opened a suspicious death investigation after Graysons body was discovered in the dead-end alley behind the building where he and his mother lived on the 17th floor.

Authorities have yet to say how Grayson died, but police have confirmed his body fell from an open window.

A child was found dead in an alley near 10th Street and Grand Boulevard on Monday in downtown Kansas City. Police say the child died when they fell from a window of the building at the center of the photo.

Little else has been disclosed by police aside from detectives belief that Grayson died as a result of child endangerment or neglect or possibly homicide. His mother, whom The Star is not naming as she has not been charged with a crime, is the subject of the police investigation.

Efforts by The Star to reach Graysons mother and his maternal grandmother have been unsuccessful. No one had been charged in connection with the boys death as of Wednesday.

Meanwhile, several neighbors who live in the building, including Grzib, told The Star there were serious concerns about the 5-year-olds well-being. Cellphone videos filmed by one neighbor and shared with The Star captured audio of her screaming at the child, as he sobs, dating back to more than a year ago, which neighbors described as a common occurrence.

Neighbors say the household was often low on food and Grayson was frequently unsupervised  sometimes seen wandering the building or heard banging on the door of his apartment when he was left by himself. They say Missouris Department of Social Services was aware of problems at his home.

Along with meeting social workers for Grayson in person, Grzib said she called social services four times herself, and said others reported concerns via Missouris Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline.

A source told The Star other hotline calls had been made about the boy within the past two years after signs of abuse and neglect.

The Star requested records from the Department of Social Services concerning Grayson last week. But the state agency has not acknowledged providing services to the boy at any point or answered any of The Stars questions, saying the earliest such records could become available is April 10.

Individual child welfare cases are often kept secret. Under Missouri law, the state agencys director may publicly release information when a child dies while receiving state care.

The Star also requested records from Kansas City police listing calls for service at the Grand Boulevard Lofts for a period beginning in 2017. Since February 2018, the records show eight times when police were called to the specific apartment where Grayson and his mother were living, including six disturbances, a residence check and a welfare check for an emotionally disturbed person.

Many of the other calls provided in the records request only list the apartment building as an address and do not contain apartment numbers. Additionally, calls that fall outside the scope of required disclosure under Missouris Sunshine Law and involve law enforcement sensitive information were not included in the list provided to The Star.

Meanwhile, Grzib said she had feared something would happen to Grayson. She thought he might starve.

But in the aftermath of his death  which has rattled neighbors and others across Kansas City  Grzib is among those questioning how the 5-year-old boy could die in such a horrific way.

She says she and some neighbors who were closest to Grayson feel as though they did not do enough to protect the boy, and are plagued by grief and guilt.

Thats kind of where the guilt is from all of us, she said. Its just like, we knew this would happen.

I should have kidnapped him

After the incident at the bus stop in March, Grzib says she was surprised that police officers allowed her to take Grayson.

She also remembers receiving troubling instructions that day.

They told me: In the morning, bring him back early, because she might not remember what happened. So, she might call and report him missing, Grzib said.

She brought him upstairs and gave him a bath. She says she quickly noticed bruises on his body, including a large lump on his foot and a mark on his cheek.

She pondered the directive to bring Grayson home. But she decided she could not.

I said, Hell no, Grzib recalled.

Instead, she said she called someone with knowledge of the states child welfare system and then a social worker. She said someone came over the next day to inspect both her home and Graysons apartment.

She checked on the (Graysons) apartment to see if it was liveable. And shes like, No, he cannot go up there. They have no food. Its a mess. They have (expletive) all over the walls. She told me they had (markings) from the hip down on every surface, and he could not go there, Grzib said.

While staying at her apartment, Grzib said Grayson played with her daughters toys and slept in Grzibs bed. Over that time, as she tried to ease out information, she says Grayson told her the mark on his cheek came from being hit by his mother with a jar of jelly.

Grayson OConnor, 5, is pictured in a photograph taken by neighor Kelsey Grzib, 35, who says she found Grayson abandoned at a bus stop by his mother and took him under her care temporarily. Grayson was found dead in an alley behind the Grand Boulevard Lofts in downtown Kansas City, where he and his mother lived on the 17th floor. Police have said his body fell from an open window.

A few days later, Grzib said another social worker specifically assigned to Grayson came to her apartment.

She says she showed her the bruises and described where they came from. But at the end of it, Grzib said, she was told Grayson had to go back home to his mother.

For some reason, Grzib said, she was told they would not be doing a forensic interview with Grayson and that removing any child from a home was so hard to do.

She saw all these injuries in person and did nothing, Grzib said.

I want her to pay. I want whoever the other lady (social worker) was to pay. Its like I dont understand how this many people (knew).

All the while, according to Grzib, Graysons mother was apparently unaware that Grayson was staying on another floor in the building.

Since then, Grzib says Graysons hair had continued to grow out real long. One of the last times she saw him, Grzib said she saw what looked like a fresh bruise on his head.

I should have never gave him f*****g back to her, Grzib said, reflecting on her time looking after Grayson in March. I should have just been like, You dont deserve your kid. Have the police come to my house.

I should have just kidnapped him.

Sad for Grayson

Around the start of COVID-19, right after Derrae Davis, 29, moved from the 3rd floor to the 17th, she heard from building management that she was getting a lot of noise complaints.

She told them she had a new TV, but that wasnt it. Then she told him who she believed was the likeliest source.

I said, Its the white girl down the hall. You need to investigate that. And he said OK, I have been hearing stories, rumors about her, Im gonna look into it and everything like that.

But it happened from that entire time up until now, Davis said.

Yelling from the apartment was frequent, Davis said. Sometimes as she passed by their door Davis would use her cellphone to record the audio from the hallway.

Videos shared with The Star included instances of a woman and child, identified by neighbors as Grayson and his mother, loudly yelling inside the apartment.

In one, taken in July 2022 when Grayson was 4 years old, she is screaming about playing with your poop as a child wails and responds several times with: Im sorry, mommy. Loud cracks can be heard, followed by the wails of a child.

She appears to call the him dumbass and f***ing idiot, saying I dont give a f*** and I will let go of you.

That incident was the worst in Davis memory. After filming the video, Davis said she spoke with mandated reporters who assured her they would be making calls to the proper authorities. She gave them as much information she could, including Graysons name and the full address with the apartment number.

It would be so frequent, but also just so random, Davis said of the episodes, which she described as verbal abuse. Like, you would just be walking out of your apartment, middle of the day, late at night. It didnt matter. She would just be yelling, yelling, yelling.

Over her years living two doors down, Davis said she never got close with Graysons mother or had what amounted to a full conversation. She always forgot her name  until recently.

A memorial was set up for Grayson OConnor, 5, who was found dead in an alley behind the Grand Boulevard Lofts at 1006 Grand Boulevard in downtown Kansas City on Monday. Police say the boy fell from a window and are investigating as possibilities that he was killed or died as a result of child endangerment.

Davis knew Grayson, though, she said, as he was always eager to talk to me and talk to anybody.

He was very friendly. And you could tell, the more he would say she would kind of hush him and tell him to be quiet and stop talking and things like that, which I always thought was weird, Davis said.

There were other behaviors Davis found strange.

In September, Davis says Kansas City police officers were called to the apartment and were involved in a tussle with a vagrant who was then forcefully removed from the building.

It happened in the hallway right outside Davis apartment. She said the man had been visiting Graysons home.

Davis also recalled a time when Graysons mother randomly knocked on her door asking for marijuana or money to buy some. And there was another occasion when she wanted to thank Davis for helping her out with her son the night before.

She was trying to find the person that was helping her. And I was like No, I never helped you with your son, but if you need help, you can ask me. Im literally right down the hall, Davis said.

On the days when Davis could hear the yelling in their apartment, she said she always felt sad for Grayson. And she now wishes she had done more to help him.

I didnt get into her business, per se, and I should have been in her business, Davis said.

I should have gotten more involved, but I didnt get involved, she added. And that part makes me sad. I would tell the property manager all the time about her behavior and how she was talking to him. But I just wish that I would have got in there more.

Another resident of the 17th floor is 62-year-old Maurice Hopson Jr., who has lived in the building for more than two years.

Hopson said it was common to hear both Grayson and his mother in their apartment yelling and crying. He never saw signs of physical abuse, he said, but he heard yelling that was often above normal.

Never heard any banging, any cabinet slamming, any furniture being turned upside down. Wasnt none of that. But it was a lot of cussing, Hopson said. You know, Sit your ass down, get the F over here, a bunch of that.

Which, young parents. I mean, I never judge anybodys parenting skills. But theres a certain way to talk to children.

Hopson says he largely keeps to himself and never really had a long conversation with Graysons mother. Mostly it was brief and neighborly interactions.

He never saw relatives or visitors at their apartment, he said.

Ive never seen anybody come over there other than a couple of caseworkers. Thats it, Hopson said, saying he recognized them as social service workers by the badges they wore.

Darryl Young, also 62, does not live on the same floor as Grayson but says he came to know him well over the years. He affectionately called him Little Man, he said, and would take him out for cheeseburgers at McDonalds.

There were concerns Young heard of, he said, secondhand from others around the building about neglect. He said he was among those in the building who tried to make sure Grayson stayed fed.

It seemed to Young that Graysons mother would bring the boy out to see neighbors when she wanted to get him a meal  something Young says he was always happy to oblige. There were other times where he worried Grayson was being left unattended.

She would leave that baby upstairs. She would leave that baby. The baby one day got out, and he was out there in the hallway, Young said.

A Kansas City police officer walks in an alley near 10th Street and Grand Boulevard where the body of child believed to be under 12-year-old was found dead on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, in downtown Kansas City. The police are investigating the incident as a suspicious death.

Out the window

On Nov. 27, around 11:30 a.m., Kansas City police officers were dispatched to the alleyway southwest of 10th Street and Grand Boulevard.

On the ground was a child, identified as Grayson, suffering from apparent head trauma. Officers noticed there was an open window above the place where the boy was found, a Kansas City detective noted in an affidavit seeking a search warrant last week.

Police officers spoke with an apartment manager and went to the 17th floor of the building. They knocked on the door and the voice of a woman was heard on the other side, calling for help.

After the door was unlocked, officers and detectives entered and found Graysons mother on the floor underneath the open window. Asked where her son was, she uttered Out the window, the affidavit says.

She was taken to a hospital for an unspecified reason. Court records show a search warrant was served at the apartment that Monday afternoon. The search warrant application asked for a court order to look for blood, bloody clothing, fingerprints and trace evidence.

A property inventory receipt for the apartment lists the collection of photographs, DNA swabs, latent fingerprints and Hemastix, which is used by forensics investigators to detect the presence of blood. Specific details of what Kansas City police discovered inside remained unknown Wednesday.

As Kansas City police investigate Graysons death, the Grand Boulevard Lofts and other local community members continue to reel from the tragedy.

Over the past week, a memorial  complete with candles, stuffed animals, letters and toy fire trucks  has grown in the alley marking the spot where Grayson was found dead.

As mourners gathered and comforted one another Saturday, near where the childs body was found, one neighbor, Shakaela Bruce, 28, said a sense of guilt permeates the hearts of those who remember seeing a cheerful boy from the 17th floor.

The entire building is shaken, Bruce said.

Gatherers listen as members of the community give remarks on the tragic death of Grayson, in the alley of Grand Loft Apartments, located at 1006 Grand Blvd.

The Stars Laura Bauer and Samantha Latson contributed to this report.
A week ago, St. Lucie County Sheriff Keith Pearson was a lieutenant.

On Friday, Sheriff Ken Mascara abruptly retired for unnamed "health reasons" and Gov. Ron DeSantis immediately named Pearson in his place, jumping him over higher-ranking command staff without explanation.

Pearson said at a press conference Monday he hadn't planned on running for sheriff and only found out about the appointment half an hour before the governor's press release announcing it, although the sheriff's logic backdrop behind him already had his name on it, as did the sign on the building.

Pearson filed Monday to run as a Republican in the 2024 sheriff's election.

Local Republican leaders have reacted with shock over the speed of the appointment and the lack of notification or consultation and have asked DeSantis to reconsider.

Who is Keith Pearson?

The new St. Lucie County Sheriff Keith Pearson speaks at the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office on Midway Road in Fort Pierce. "It's very humbling but its also very exciting knowing that we are going to be able to be able to continue serving St. Lucie County at this level of excellency," Pearson said at the start of a media interview at the Sheriffs Office on Midway Road on Monday Dec. 4, 2023, in Fort Pierce. The former St. Lucie County Sheriff Ken Mascara submitted his resignation on Friday Dec. 1, and he cited ongoing health issues for his departure. Hes currently out of state seeking treatment, he noted.

Pearson, 40, was born in New York but moved to St. Lucie County when he was 3 years old. He grew up in Fort Pierce and attended Lincoln Park Academy. He received an associate degree in criminal justice from Indian River State College.

In 2003 he was hired as a deputy, attending the police academy, and has worked for the department since. Pearson started in corrections in the county jail and also worked in the crime investigations unit. Most recently he was in charge of security over the county's 48,000 students.

Pearson lives in Port St. Lucie with his wife, Brandi. They married in May 2005.

Pearson was recognized in 2010 with the Treasure Coast "Peers" award from ASIS International, a worldwide organization of security professionals. In 2009 he received a commendation award for work in the sheriff's Criminal Investigations Division.

Hes also the recipient of the U.S. Department of Justice Distinguished Service Medal and the U. S. Southern District Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award.

Was Keith Pearson investigated in a police-involved shooting?

Pearson and Fort Pierce Police Officer Keith Holmes, working undercover, fired multiple times at John Donald Augstgen Jr., 47, when he tried to run them down with a truck after they interrupted an alleged drug deal in 2012. Augstgen died days later.

A grand jury cleared both men in 2013.

Did Republican Keith Pearson help Democrat Ken Mascara stay sheriff?

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigated former sheriff Mascara and some others, including Pearson, over misconduct in the 2020 election. Mascara, a Democrat, allegedly recruited a "ghost candidate" to run in the Republican primary to disrupt it and win over Mascara's rivals.

Evidence in the report suggested Mascara helped bring in Kevin Carter, a retired St. Lucie County deputy, who won the Republican primary but was easily defeated by Mascara in the general election with Mascara getting 67% of the vote. Pearson, who recently filed to run for sheriff as a Republican, reportedly helped distribute Carter's campaign signs and "siphon votes" from the other Republican candidate, Rich Williams, according to reports.

St. Lucie County Sheriff Ken Mascara in 2023

The FDLE report said Pearson "knowingly conspired, confederated, abetted and aided Ken Mascara while he was the incumbent St. Lucie County sheriff and seeking re-election for said office in the 2020 election cycle, to facilitate Kevin Carter's 'ghost candidacy' in the 2020 St. Lucie County sheriff race."

Despite that conclusion, prosecutors ultimately decided there was insufficient evidence that Mascara, Pearson and others involved broke any laws and state attorney Phil Archer's office declined to file charges.

"I don't believe I did anything wrong," Pearson said when asked about it at the press conference.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Keith Pearson appointed Florida sheriff after 20 years of service
Special Climate Envoy John Kerry indicated that the U.S. will support largely phasing out fossil fuels amid climate negotiations during a global summit in Dubai.

The science says we have to reduce the emissions, Kerry told reporters during a press conference on Wednesday. We believe that that means if youre going to reduce the emissions and youre actually going to hit the target of net-zero by 2050, you have to do some phasing out.

We said very clearly that you [have got to] have  largely a phase out of fossil fuels in our energy systems by 2050, he said.

Kerrys comments come amid a heated debate at the climate summit about whether countries should call for a phaseout or a less intense phasedownof fossil fuels, which are the main driver of global warming.

In his remarks, the former secretary of state also said that technology that captures carbon emissions to prevent them from going into the atmosphere and warming the planet should be focused on the hardest-to-abate sectors, including the making of steel, cement, aluminum and concrete.

Kerry also defended the economics of the energy transition, saying, Were convinced that the other side of this transition is an upside for people.

Our economy is growing and the jobs of renewable energy are actually growing a lot faster in America than the jobs of fossil fuel, he said, also pointing to a projection from the International Energy Agency that fossil fuel demand will peak this decade.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6)  The Philippines is still among the countries with the lowest proficiency in reading comprehension, mathematics, and science among 15-year-old students, according to the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 results.

The PISA results released on Tuesday indicated that the country's average 2022 results in mathematics, reading and science were about the same as in 2018. It also reported that the Philippines scored less than the average set by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

It also explained that the gap between the highest-scoring students (10% with the highest scores) and the weakest students (10% with the lowest scores) narrowed in mathematics, while there was no significant change in reading and science.

In mathematics, low-achievers became stronger, while performance did not change significantly amongst high-achievers," it added.

Specifically, 16% of Filipino students attained at least Level 2 proficiency in mathematics, which is significantly less than the OECD average at 69%.

At a minimum, these students can interpret and recognize, without direct instructions, how a simple situation can be represented mathematically (e.g. comparing the total distance across two alternative routes, or converting prices into a different currency), PISA explained.

When it comes to reading, 24% of students attained Level 2 proficiency or higher in reading, still lower than the OECD average at 74%. PISA said Filipino students can at least identify the main idea in a text of moderate length, find information based on explicit, though sometimes complex criteria, and can reflect on the purpose and form of texts when explicitly directed to do so.

Some 23% of Filipino students also attained Level 2 proficiency or higher in science, which was also lower than the 76% OECD average. These students can at least recognize the correct explanation for familiar scientific phenomena and can use such knowledge to identify, in simple cases, whether a conclusion is valid based on the data provided, PISA said.

Some 690,000 students participated in the latest assessment, with 7,193 from 188 schools coming from the Philippines. They took two-hour long tests in each of the subjects, which was a mix of multiple choice and constructing their own answers.

Vice President and Department of Education Secretary Sara Duterte earlier said they are expecting bad results from the assessment. She emphasized the importance of addressing learning gaps and areas for improvement in the current education system.

Recently, DepEd launched the decongested Matatag K-12 program which, according to the department, has so far helped students improve their performance.
Washington  Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is resigning from Congress at the end of the month, he announced Wednesday, ending weeks of speculation about his future after he was ousted from his leadership role in October.

"I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways," McCarthy wrote in an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal. "I know my work is only getting started."

McCarthy's departure makes him the latest member to retire amid growing polarization that has made it difficult for Congress to operate. His decision comes a day after Rep. Patrick McHenry, who briefly served as temporary speaker following McCarthy's ouster, also announced he would leave Congress.

Without McCarthy, the Republicans' slim majority  already weakened after Rep. George Santos was expelled from Congress  will shrink yet again, with Republicans holding 220 seats to Democrats' 213. A special election has been set for Santos' seat for Feb. 13, with the district considered a toss-up by the Cook Political Report.

"Hopefully no one dies," Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene said about the party's majority after McCarthy announced his retirement.

McCarthy represents California's 20th District in the central part of the state, stretching from the San Joaquin Valley and the southern tip of the Sierra Nevadas to the Mojave Desert. It's a reliably red district that includes his hometown of Bakersfield.

McCarthy recently indicated that he's been going through stages of grief since his ouster and did not want to make a rash decision about his future.

Rep. Kevin McCarthy speaks during the New York Times annual DealBook summit on Nov. 29, 2023, in New York. / Credit: Michael M Santiago/Getty Images / Getty Images

"If I decide to run again, I have to know in my heart I'm giving 110%. I have to know that I want to do that," McCarthy said recently at the New York Times' DealBook Summit. "I also have to know if I'm going to walk away, that I'm going to be fine with walking away."

"If you just got thrown out of speaker, you'd go through different stages, would you not?" he added. "I want to know that it's the right thing to do. And then if I'm walking away from something that I spent two decades at, I don't want to look back and say I made an emotional decision."

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre congratulated McCarthy on his long career in Congress.

"The president wishes Speaker McCarthy well, and congratulates him on a career of service. While they have important differences about policy, the president appreciates that they were able to work across the aisle," Jean-Pierre said.

McCarthy's tumultuous speakership

McCarthy, who was elected to Congress in 2006, held the top post for nine months before a deal he made to secure the speakership led to his downfall. His fight to win the gavel when Republicans took control of the House in January included 15 rounds of votes, and foreshadowed the limits of his power over a fractured party.

To win the support of far-right Republican holdouts, he agreed to a rule allowing a single member to trigger a no-confidence vote to remove the speaker. That came back to haunt him when fellow Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida introduced a resolution to do just that after McCarthy relied heavily on the votes of House Democrats to temporarily avert a government shutdown in September. Eight Republicans voted with all Democrats to remove McCarthy, making it the first time in U.S. history a House speaker was ousted by such a motion.

His successor, House Speaker Mike Johnson, has made similar decisions since taking over, including relying on Democrats to avert a shutdown in November, but has so far avoided McCarthy's fate.



"I wish him well," Gaetz said of McCarthy's retirement. When asked if he was responsible for driving McCarthy out, Gaetz said, "I didn't force him to resign. He made the decision."

McCarthy has not hidden his disdain for the Republicans who voted for his removal, telling CNN last month that Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina did not deserve to be reelected, and the Republican Party would benefit "tremendously" if Gaetz was not in Congress. He also questioned the motives of Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee.

"They care a lot about press, not about policy, and so they seem to just want the press and the personality," McCarthy told CNN.

Burchett later accused McCarthy of elbowing him in the back in a Capitol Hill hallway in retaliation for the vote, which McCarthy denied.

"If I were to hit somebody, they would know I hit them," McCarthy said.

On Wednesday, Johnson praised McCarthy for helping Republicans secure the majority and lifting restrictions that had been implemented in Congress during the COVID-19 pandemic. He wished McCarthy the best, saying he "served faithfully and sacrificed substantially for the good of our country and our cause."

"It's like losing Michael Jordan," Rep. Tom Cole of Oklahoma said.

Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisiana said Wednesday that McCarthy's leadership would "be missed around here." McCarthy did not give him a heads up about the announcement, he said.

"I would have liked him to stay. But it's kind of hard to ask somebody to stay after they're weighing some longer-term decisions," Scalise said. "He was going to have some really good options in the next phases of his life."



Nikole Killion, Scott MacFarlane and Alejandro Alvarez contributed reporting.

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Kevin McCarthy has some company as he heads for the House exits.

Although they dont agree on much these days, members of Congress are on the same page about one thing: Its an especially miserable time to have their job, especially if you represent California.

The deadline in California to file for reelection is Friday, and seven Golden State members of Congress have opted to leave  with four retiring outright rather than run for another office.

That list grew Wednesday with the former speakers announcement that he would quit the House by the end of December.

Read more: Who will replace Bakersfield Republican Kevin McCarthy in Congress? Here are possible candidates

The last year has been marked by an almost unprecedented level of chaos, dysfunction and near misses on self-inflicted national economic catastrophes in the Republican-controlled House, all bookended by two separate speakership crises. McCarthy, the Bakersfield Republican who has been at the center of the Houses 2023 maelstrom, lost his grip on the gavel in October.

The disarray has led to a surge in retirements from both parties. Thirty-one House members are leaving, including 16 who arent running for another office. In November alone, 12 members announced their retirements  the most in any month for more than adecade, according to Ballotpedia.

For Californians, the day-to-day burdens of the job are heavier than they are for many of their colleagues. Californians always face some of the longest commutes of any member of Congress. Forty of the states 52 House members are Democrats, and being in the minority is a drag  especially during the current era of hyperpartisanship. On top of that, in the span of two years Californias delegation has gone from having two of its own at the helm of both parties in the House to having none, with the exit of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) from party leadership followed quickly by McCarthys ignominious demotion and decision to quit.

The real surprise isnt how many California members are retiring; its how many are willing to stay after the last year of chaos.

The travel sucks. Its a long flight both ways. I get tired at random times of the day because of the time change, Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Torrance) told The Times. On one recent flight, he was delayed six hours because the planes toilet wasnt working  but he flies so much, he couldnt remember when and where it happened.

Add to that a Republican majority thats doing a bunch of stupid stuff, and the day-to-day in Congress honestly feels more stupid now than at any other point in Lieus decade in the House, he said.

And hes a member of House Democratic leadership, serving as vice chairman.

Its hard to overstate how maddening and demoralizing the last year in Congress has been for members of both parties.

McCarthy needed four days and 15 ballots to win the speakership in January. After months of struggling to get his conference to pass just about anything, he enraged his right-wing critics with a deal to temporarily avoid a government shutdown; they booted him weeks later. Since then, he has publicly lambasted the eight Republicans who voted to remove him; one of them accused him of elbowing him in the kidney, a claim confirmed by a journalist present but which McCarthy denied.

McCarthy announced his retirement in a Wall Street Journal op-ed, in which he defended his decision to cross his right-wing critics on government funding deals  while hinting at Congress dysfunction.

We kept our government operating and our troops paid while wars broke out around the world, he wrote. No matter the odds, or personal cost, we did the right thing. That may seem out of fashion in Washington these days, but delivering results for the American people is still celebrated across the country.

McCarthys allies are furious about how he was treated.

Kevin did nothing wrong. He led us to victory. He led us to the majority. He led us well in the majority as our speaker. Hes done really great work. And he deserved to be our speaker, Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Bonsall) told The Times last week, after indicating he expected McCarthy would retire. A small gang, a gang of eight, took him out. And I hope that all eight of them recognize they made a mistake.

Read more: Kevin McCarthy wins his dream job, but at a humiliating and stifling cost

Rep. Patrick T. McHenry (R-N.C.), one of McCarthys closest confidants and the man McCarthy made acting speaker when he was ousted from office, announced Tuesday he would retire.

Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.), another close ally, said he could certainly understand why McCarthy wouldnt want to stick around.

He was shamefully mistreated. His removal was ridiculous, he told The Times last week. And I think those that voted that way and were responsible for it, particularly on our side, ought to think long and hard of the damage they inflicted to the institution and to our conference.

Cole said he plans to run again. But when asked whether he could think of another time in his two decades in Congress that has been less fun to serve, he didnt pause.

No! he exclaimed with a wry laugh.

Three other House Republicans tried and failed to win the speakership after McCarthys ouster before an exhausted GOP conference was able to compromise on making little-known Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) speaker. He then cut a deal to punt a decision on a government shutdown into the new year  a similar move to that which sealed McCarthys fate.

But Johnsons deal runs only through late January, when Congress will once again grapple with what was once an easy vote to keep the lights on and avoid a government shutdown. In the last week, the House wasnt voting on that issue  or high-stakes funding to help Ukraine ward off Russias invasion or supply more military aid to Israel. House Republicans instead moved toward an official impeachment vote of President Biden, before finally voting to kick out Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) from the House after keeping him for the last year in spite of his many alleged felonies because they needed his vote in a closely divided chamber.

Rep. Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) said her belief that the U.S. is at a critical point in the history of our country in terms of fighting for our democracy motivates her to stay in Congress. But her train of thought was interrupted as Santos stormed off the House floor during his expulsion vote, followed by a pack of reporters who nearly trampled her and this reporter in the narrow hallway  just the latest moment of dysfunctional chaos.

Once they cleared out, Brownley conceded that its not a pleasant experience to be a member of Congress right now.

The last three months clearly werent a lot of fun here, with the chaos that we saw. And that might not change in the immediate future, Rep. Ami Bera (D-Elk Grove) told The Times.

Later, as The Times interviewed Rep. Scott Peters (D-San Diego) on the topic, Bera interjected.

I think you should do the story about why are members staying in Congress, as opposed to the opposite, he said.

I cant walk away from the big money and the constant praise, Peters, one of Congress wealthier members, remarked sardonically. He, like many members, went on to say he was sticking around not because the job was pleasant but because it was important. People have died for democracy. I can put up with some long plane rides and average parties to try to help the country, he said.

Rep. Grace F. Napolitano (D-Norwalk), who is retiring at age 84 after serving in the House for a quarter-century, told The Times that the current period was the least pleasant shed experienced in Congress. She said when she first arrived she was able to work across the aisle on issues important for California with members like former Rep. David Dreier (R-Claremont), but that has disappeared over the years.

This trouble between both parties has got to stop. Its not good for our country, she said. Shell miss the infighting, the inability to work with people on issues that are really critical the least.

Three of the seven Californians leaving the House are gunning for promotions rather than escape from Congress: Reps. Adam B. Schiff (D-Burbank), Katie Porter (D-Irvine) and Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) are all running for the Senate. But that doesnt mean theyre loving their daily work right now.

Things have become so much more personal and bitter, and weve seen the elevation of these kind of vile performance artists, Schiff, whom Republicans removed from his committees in a retaliatory vote this year, told The Times. I think it contributes to some of the departures. One thing that attracts me about the Senate is the opportunity to get more things done.

Add two transcontinental flights a week to a job in which its tough to get much done, and you have a recipe for unhappiness.

I dont think Ill miss the weekly commute. I wont miss sitting in the middle seat economy in the back of the plane, and all the have-[to]-dos that come with this job, said Rep. Anna G. Eshoo (D-Menlo Park), who is retiring at age 80.

Rep. Tony Cardenas is also retiring. His decision was the only one that surprised his colleagues  hes only 60.

Hes burnt out on the lifestyle. Cardenas normal week begins with a 5 a.m. Monday wake-up so he can say goodbye to his wife and make it to LAX by 6  the commute is 35 minutes before 6 a.m., and close to an hour after. He arrives in Washington late Monday afternoon, works all day for four days, then tries to get home for a bit of the weekend. Going back and forth puts a strain on relationships with our loved ones, he said.

The travel takes a physical toll too. Cardenas told The Times that hed never had any back problems in his life. But after a few years in Congress and more than 30 transcontinental flights a year, he developed severe pain. When his wife touched his back to check, it made him scream. Hed developed sciatica from all the time crammed into airplane seats (acupuncture and working on his posture have helped).

Eshoo told The Times that she hadnt decided to leave Congress because of how miserable its become  I dont run away from anything  but that she felt it was time to go.

Eshoo has been friends with Pelosi, the former speaker, for a half-century, dating to the 1970s, and said it was a tough conversation to tell her she was retiring, especially since Pelosi lobbied her to stay for another term.

Multiple members said they were surprised that the 83-year-old Pelosi would outlast McCarthy, 58, in Congress. With Pelosi and McCarthy both out of leadership, Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-Redlands), the third-ranking House Democrat, is now the most senior Californian in House leadership of either party.

Californians whove left Congress say they dont miss it at all. Some have opted to return home and run for local office. Former Democratic Reps. Janice Hahn and Hilda Solis serve on the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.

I am 100% happy that I came home, Hahn told The Times. What has transpired in Congress recently only reaffirms that decision. It seems chaotic. It seems ineffective. And I think it causes the American public to be very disappointed in their policymakers in Congress.

Los Angeles County is the most populous in the U.S. It has more than 10 million people  a population larger than that of 40 U.S. states  and serving as one of the five supervisors is in many ways a more powerful position than being one of 435 members in an ineffective House.

Hahn spent three terms in the minority before retiring in 2016, having found the partisan, polarizing atmosphere of Congress to be really almost debilitating at some times. She said she was proud of creating a bipartisan caucus to support port cities. But her legislative achievements  like most minority members  were scant. I mean, I named a post office, she said.

Former Rep. Paul Cook, a Republican, is now a San Bernardino County supervisor. Democratic Rep. Gloria Negrete McLeod left Congress to run unsuccessfully for the same role. Democrat Jackie Speier, who retired from Congress after the last term, is now running for the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors  a job she held early in her career.

Speier said she retired because shed promised her husband shed come home, and initially almost resented the decision. But now?

As time wore on, I realized, oh my gosh, we live and work in this bubble, and dont realize how insane it is. When you step back from it, you know, its like youre a hamster on a treadmill. And you just keep doing it with no real positive results, she said. The institution is so dysfunctional now that it really frightens me.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
This is how Kevin McCarthys biography on his congressional website still read on Wednesday:

Congressman Kevin McCarthy proudly serves Californias 20th District and is currently the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives.

Except, hes not the speaker anymore. He lost that job in October, when a gang of far-right members fed up with him conspired to vote McCarthy unceremoniously out of that lofty office. The Bakersfield-born Republican became the first House Speaker in American history to be stripped of his gavel and leadership authority.

Then, on Wednesday, McCarthy announced in an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal that he would leave Congress at the end of this month. A special election will be required to give his 20th District a representative for next year.

For residents of Kern, Fresno, Kings and Tulare counties represented by McCarthy, it will be the second time in two years that their House member has retired early. Devin Nunes left in January 2022 to work for Donald Trump.

Being House speaker  behind only the vice president in the line of succession to the presidency  was McCarthys longtime goal in politics. The reference on his website that he still held the office could be a staff oversight.

Opinion

Or, perhaps McCarthy could not bring himself to admit to the past tense, was the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives ...

Being speaker lasted all of nine months. The razor-thin majority the GOP had in the House saw to that.

McCarthys decision to call it a career was a stunning, yet unsurprising, decision by a lawmaker who enjoyed one of the safest seats in the nation.

For nearly all his time in politics, McCarthy held some sort of leadership role. Elected to the California Assembly in 2002 from his hometown of Bakersfield, McCarthy soon took on the role of Assembly Republican leader. Four years later he was elected to Congress. He quickly rose to the post of chief deputy whip before he became House majority whip in 2010. Four years later he became GOP majority leader, then House Republican leader in 2018. From there he became House speaker.

It took 15 votes, however, for McCarthy to finally grab hold of that brass ring. To achieve it, McCarthy had to agree to a demand by the far-right Freedom Caucus members: Any single representative could bring a motion to vacate the speakership.

That is exactly what Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz did on Oct. 2. McCarthy could not muster enough votes to prevail, and he was forced out of office and into the history books.

But there were other history-making moments in the last years of McCarthys tenure.

On Jan. 13, 2021, a week after the Jan. 6 rioting at the U.S. Capitol, McCarthy said then-President Trump bears responsibility for the rampaging that occurred. It was a needed moment of accountability from a GOP leader.

Then on Jan. 28, 2021, McCarthy visited former President Trump at his home in Florida in what many analysts have since characterized as a lifeline event for Trumps political survival. This despite Trump knowing that he had lost the election, as McCarthy related to then-Rep. Liz Cheney, Republican of Wyoming.

The visit reinvigorated the prospects of the former president, and today he is the leading GOP candidate for next years presidential nomination. If elected, Trump is promising retribution for anyone who has opposed him  a dangerous and chilling possibility for American democracy that only exists because of McCarthys ill-fated help.

Infamous lifeline to Trump

Over the last 17 years, McCarthy shook thousands of hands, posed for hundreds of photos, gave multitudes of Fox News interviews and accepted scores of young peoples applications to the nations military academies.

But embracing Trump will be the infamous calculation by McCarthy that historians will single out when recalling him. That is the view of three longtime observers of politics in the San Joaquin Valley.

Mike Madrid is a Latino Republican and longtime political consultant from Sacramento who got to know McCarthy during his statehouse days. I asked Madrid for his perspective on McCarthy. He immediately referenced the Trump visit after Jan. 6.

McCarthy knew Donald Trump was a threat to the republic. He knew what this moment in history was, and he chose not to do the right thing. That is how history will remember him ... he will go down as one of weakest speakers in the history of the republic.

Mark Arax of Fresno, the celebrated author and former Los Angeles Times reporter who covered the Valley, said McCarthy grossly miscalculated when he joined himself to Trump.

I dont see Kevin McCarthy doing well when history makes its judgment, Arax said. He will look like all the other cowards with their proverbial fingers in the wind.

His first impulse on Jan. 6 and the days after was to challenge Trump, but he could not stay true to that.

Fresno State political science Professor Tom Holyoke said the Trump-aligned forces in the House GOP proved to be more than McCarthy could control.

Put more simply, he tried to ride the tiger, but the tiger would not, could not be controlled, and ate him, Holyoke said.

McCarthys legacy

McCarthys departure will be a blow to the GOP. He has prowess almost without equal when it comes to fund-raising.

The National Republican Congressional Committee said McCarthy raised $40 million in the previous election cycle and had generated $20 million so far in the current one.

His political action committee, the Congressional Leadership Fund, raised about $215 million for the 2020 election, roughly $350 million during last years midterm races and around $80 million so far this cycle.

Madrid wants McCarthy to break with Trump and offer a new vision of America.

Few Republicans have made amends and demonstrated contrition in the Trump era. If he wants to be known in history other than someone complicit in what this era will be known as, he needs to get to work at it.

He should be far more concerned with his legacy than his bank account.
California Rep. Kevin McCarthy, ousted as House Speaker this fall in a rebellion by a band of hard-right conservatives, announced Wednesday that he will retire from Congress at the end of the year.

No matter the odds, or personal cost, we did the right thing, McCarthy wrote in a Wall Street Journal op-ed about his time in Congress and retirement. That may seem out of fashion in Washington these days, but delivering results for the American people is still celebrated across the country.

It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways, he said. I know my work is only getting started.

McCarthys exit after 17 years, most of them in House leadership, ends years of turmoil that he could rarely escape. He wanted to succeed then-Speaker John Boehner in 2015 but couldnt persuade hard-right colleagues to back him. He expressed dismay at the Jan. 6, 2021, riot  but, realizing he needed to keep his shaky grip on the GOP caucus, visited Donald Trump three weeks later, giving the embattled former president important credibility with his party.

And he made concession after concession to far-right colleagues to finally secure the speakers job last January, only to eventually learn he couldnt satisfy the influential cadre that would force him out.

McCarthys downfall came in early October, when eight House Republicans, enraged by a compromise he offered to Democrats to keep the government open, joined the left side of the aisle to make him the first speaker removed by colleagues. In a lengthy press conference a few hours later, he said he would not attempt to reclaim the speakership.

But McCarthy, who turns 59 in January, sent mixed messages in the following weeks, alternately leaving the door open to a another run for speaker and hinting at retirement.

If Im walking away from something that I spent two decades at, I dont want to look back and say I made an emotional decision, he said at The New York Times DealBook Summit on Nov. 29.

His announcement comes two days ahead of the Dec. 8 filing deadline to run in Californias March 5 primary.

Depending on when McCarthy resigns, California Gov. Gavin Newsom must decide whether to call a special election to replace him. The seat will be vacant for a period of time regardless, narrowing an already-slim Republican House majority.

Californias 20th Congressional District is solidly Republican, covering parts of Kern, Fresno, Tulare and Kings counties.

Depending on what his next career steps are, McCarthys prowess as a prolific fundraiser will be hard for the California and national Republican party to replace. But he wrote that would be part of his next steps.

I will continue to recruit our countrys best and brightest to run for elected office, he wrote. The Republican Party is expanding every day, and I am committed to lending my experience to support the next generation of leaders.

Kevin McCarthy leaves a slim majority slimmer

McCarthys departure will leave House Republicans with a razor-thin majority. The vacancy created by Rep. George Santos, expelled last week, will not be filled until early next year. A special election to fill the seat is scheduled for Feb. 13, and Democrats are given a decent chance of winning. Chances are McCarthys seat wont be filled until later.

Funding for about 20% of the federal government is due to run out January 19, and the deadline for funding the rest is Feb. 2. The House is scheduled to leave for the year at the end of next week and not return until January 9.

Last month, Republicans needed the help of Democrats to keep the government open, a move that many conservative GOP members opposed.

The House currently has 221 Republicans, 213 Democrats and one vacancy.

Kevin McCarthys troubled speaker journey

McCarthy spent years chasing the speakers gavel. But he was viewed with suspicion by the far-right wing of the House GOP, largely enrolled in the Freedom Caucus, which regarded him as a purely transactional operator who lacked core conservative principles.

He was House majority leader in 2015  number two to Boehner  when he tried to succeed the resigning speaker. However, the same Freedom Caucus that bedeviled Boehner helped sink McCarthys chances. That defeat prefigured struggles to come. Republican Paul Ryan won the post and served until 2019 when Democrats gained control and the young speaker himself retired from Congress.

In January, after Republicans took back the House, McCarthy struggled through 15 rounds of votes and a series of concessions to get the far-right flank behind him.

Throughout his nine-month speakership, the Freedom Caucus and other GOP mavericks plagued him, threatening to call for a snap vote to remove him. After McCarthy presented a plan that staved off a government shutdown, Freedom Caucus member Matt Gaetz, a Florida Republican, followed through on the threat.

Several McCarthy allies lobbied against his ouster  and for his reinstatement as speaker  as Republicans struggled for three weeks to pick a successor. They settled on a lesser-known conservative, Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La. Like McCarthy, Johnson is a Trump ally; he crafted a legal argument to support overturning 2020 presidential election results.

In the end, it was a lack of trust, not ideology, that doomed McCarthys speakership.

Colleagues on both sides of the aisle considered him a frequent liar. In budget negotiations this year, he and congressional allies developed a deal with President Joe Bidens White House to lift the debt ceiling this spring.

But McCarthy later sought deeper spending cuts under pressure from conservative hardliners and ultimately presented a stopgap measure this fall that contained none of them.

Hes a liar. Hes a fraud. And hes an extremist, said Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Long Beach, at the time.

McCarthy defended himself vigorously to reporters after his removal. He said he did not renege on the debt limit deal.

I kept my word, he said.

Donald Trump and My Kevin

McCarthy became an ally of the former president in the lead up to the 2016 election.

As minority leader, he kept House Republicans largely unified in two impeachment votes on the former president, including one on charges that he incited the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. The Democratic-controlled House voted both times to impeach.

McCarthy also provided the former president with a political boost after he left office. Two weeks after he blasted Trump for the attack, saying on the House floor that he bears responsibility, he traveled to the former presidents Mar-a-Lago estate.

Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., recounted in her new memoir confronting McCarthy about the Jan. 28 trip. He responded by saying Trump was depressed and not eating, justifying the visit and much-discussed photograph with the men smiling side-by-side. His apparent approval helped keep Trump in good graces among many in the GOP.

Over the past couple of years, McCarthys congressional predecessor and mentor, longtime Republican Rep. Bill Thomas, has been critical of McCarthy for his support of Trumps false claims about the 2020 election his response to Jan. 6, and his concessions to be speaker.

Trump, who had famously referred to McCarthy as My Kevin, declined to help save his job. In a phone call afterward, according to the Washington Post, Trump said he didnt try to stop Gaetz because McCarthy had failed to get his two impeachments expunged and had yet to endorse his 2024 candidacy for president. McCarthy allegedly told Trump, F--- you.

A McCarthy spokesperson told the Post he did not swear and that their relationship was good.

Kevin McCarthys congressional rise

A fourth-generation resident of Kern County, McCarthy graduated from Bakersfield High School in 1983.

He attended community college for a year before dropping out and running a sandwich counter, Kevin Os Deli, in his uncles frozen yogurt shop. McCarthy later attended California State University, Bakersfield, graduating in 1989 and returning for a Masters in Business Administration, which he received in 1994.

He started in Thomas office in 1987, working as an in-district intern, aide and district director. McCarthy won his first election in 2000 to become a Kern Community College District trustee. Two years later, Thomas endorsed his successful run for the California State Assembly. McCarthy was selected minority leader, holding the role from 2004 to 2006.

In 2006, when Thomas announced his retirement after nearly three decades in Congress, McCarthy ran to succeed him and won easily. He rose swiftly to the GOPs third-in-command as majority whip in 2011 and became the majority leader in 2014. He was the first California Republican to be House minority leader and speaker.

He never had a close congressional contest in his Bakersfield district.

Who could succeed Kevin McCarthy?

A handful of candidates announced in Californias 20th before McCarthy said he wouldnt seek re-election. Theres still time for other contenders to file necessary paperwork to run.

Two Republicans David Giglio, a Madera Ranchos business owner, and Matthew Piatt, an Oregon consultant, entered the field.

Democrat Marisa Wood, a Bakersfield school teacher who fell to McCarthy by more than 34 percentage points in the 2022 election, said she is running again.

Democrats John Burrows, a Fresno public affairs entrepreneur, and Andy Morales of Bakersfield, a recent college graduate working in private security, are also running. Ben Dewell, who ran as a Democrat in the primary for Californias 20th last year, is campaigning in 2024 as an Independent.

Several Republicans from the southern San Joaquin Valley could mount campaigns: State Sen. Shannon Grove of Bakersfield; retiring Asm. Devon Mathis of Porterville; Truth Social executive and former California Republican Rep. Devin Nunes, and Fresno County Supervisor Nathan Magsig. They were all mentioned as potential candidates during conversations with consultants this week. None have announced.

Who will succeed McCarthy as a major fundraiser for the California Republican Party is unclear, depending on his next career move.

Hotly-contested races on the line for a House majority will get aid from the Republican National Committee or leadership groups, said GOP consultant Mike Madrid in an October interview. But what about the other 50 seats? he said. Thats where the [California Republican Party] is in really, really deep trouble.

McClatchy DCs David Lightman contributed to this story.
Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy will not seek another term in Congress, ending a tumultuous two-decade career in public office that was marked by a swift ascent and descent in Washington GOP leadership. He said he would leave the House by the end of the year.

Read more: Who will replace Bakersfield Republican Kevin McCarthy in Congress? Here are possible candidates

McCarthy announced his decision days before the state's deadline to file to run again for his Bakersfield-based seat  and just nine weeks after bitter infighting among House Republicans led to his historic Oct. 3 ouster from the leadership post. His departure opens the door for what could become a contested House race in California's heavily Republican Central Valley.

In a Wall Street Journal op-ed, McCarthy lauded his record: serving as his party's whip, majority leader and speaker and diversifying the House GOP conference. "It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways," he wrote. "I know my work is only getting started."

"My story is the story of America. For me, every moment came with a great deal of devotion and responsibility," McCarthy said in a video announcement. "Giving my best to all of you has been my greatest honor."

McCarthy's retirement from Congress continues the steep decline of California's political power in Washington, where just a handful of lawmakers from the state remain in leadership posts. The delegation lost decades of experience and seniority with Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinsteins death in September. San Francisco's Rep. Nancy Pelosi stepped down from the House's Democratic leadership in January. Only two Californians remain in leadership positions: Reps. Pete Aguilar of Redlands, chair of the Democratic Caucus; and Ted Lieu of Torrance, the Democrats' vice chair.

Read more: Kevin McCarthy ousted as speaker, throwing Washington into chaos

McCarthy's retirement is also a blow to GOP fundraising efforts. Last election cycle, he helped raise hundreds of millions of dollars for Republican campaigns. On Wednesday, some lawmakers lauded McCarthy's tenure. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, once McCarthy's Republican counterpart in the upper chamber, said the Californian's constituents "were fortunate to have such an optimistic doer represent them for 17 years."

"I am proud of the work we accomplished together in the Capitol, and I wish him the very best as he writes a new chapter," McConnell added on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

Not all of McCarthy's colleagues are sad to see him go. Florida Republican Matt Gaetz was leader of the eight hard-right lawmakers who forced McCarthy out as speaker with the help of Democratic votes. The group had griped that McCarthy worked too closely with Democrats to suspend the nation's debt ceiling and avert a government shutdown.

Read more: News Analysis: Kevin McCarthy avoided a government shutdown. But the fiasco shows he's weaker than ever

McCarthy's reliance on bipartisanship to advance legislation near the end of his career stands in contrast to the partisanship he demonstrated when he first came to Washington in 2007.

The Californian was elected to his House seat in 2006, and quickly climbed the ranks of his party's leadership after demonstrating his fundraising prowess. His first bid for the speakership, in 2015, collapsed in part because more-conservative tea party Republicans withheld their support.

After he courted the far right and became an ardent backer of then-President Trump ahead of the 2018 midterm election, McCarthy was elected leader of the House's GOP minority.

Read more: Kevin McCarthy abruptly pulls out of House Speaker race amid opposition

But even after Republicans reclaimed the House in the 2022 midterm election, McCarthy struggled to secure the speakership, the chamber's top post. In January, he needed 15 tries to win enough votes from his party to clinch the speaker's gavel. In exchange for their votes, he agreed to make it easier for any lawmaker to call for a vote on removing him.

As speaker, McCarthy scored few victories for his party. He opened an impeachment inquiry against President Biden at the behest of far-right Republicans, but he never wielded the power that past speakers such as Pelosi had. He was unable to rally his steeply divided conference on an array of issues, forcing him to rely on Democrats' votes to suspend the nation's debt ceiling in May and avert a government shutdown in September.

It was these moves that enraged Gaetz and other GOP rebels. Once ousted, McCarthy declined to run for speaker again, and the party finally settled on Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson after weeks of infighting.

Johnson has also struggled to unify the Republican caucus  he relied on Democratic votes to avert a government shutdown in mid-November  but GOP hard-liners have so far mostly spared him their wrath.

Read more: News Analysis: Mike Johnson just did the same thing that cost Kevin McCarthy his job

The GOP's October civil war took a toll on the party, though, with the infighting repeatedly spilling over in public. Last month, a Tennessee Republican who had voted to oust McCarthy accused the former speaker of elbowing him in a Capitol Hill hallway. (McCarthy denied the accusation, but a reporter present at the exchange backed the Tennessean's account.)

The internal tumult also prompted some high-profile departures.

Rep. Patrick T. McHenry (R-N.C.), a close McCarthy ally who served as interim speaker after the Californian's ouster, said Tuesday he would leave at the end of his term. Like McCarthy, McHenry was among a new generation of ambitious House conservatives who sought to lead the Republican Party in the last decade.

Also like McCarthy, former GOP House Majority Leader Eric Cantor of Virginia and former House Speaker Paul D. Ryan of Wisconsin eventually saw themselves outmatched by the rambunctious far-right of the GOP, which rejects almost any deal making with Democrats.

McCarthy's retirement "is another sign that [President] Trump has dramatically changed the GOP and its possible leaders," Carl Tobias, a law professor at the University of Richmond School of Law, told The Times in an email. Tobias surmised McCarthy is leaving Washington "because he has a better offer of more rewarding challenges than fighting the political wars that are consuming the House and the nation."

McCarthy's departure will also further narrow the GOP's majority.

The House expelled New York Republican George Santos last week, and a special election to fill his seat won't be held until February. The combination of Santos' expulsion and McCarthy's departure at the end of this year will leave Republicans with just a three-seat majority in the chamber, making it even more challenging for Johnson to lead his fractured conference.

House Republicans will need to work with the Democratic-controlled Senate and President Biden again next month if they hope to avert a government shutdown.

"I can assure you Republican voters didnt give us the majority to crash the ship," Georgia GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene wrote on X, shortly after McCarthy announced his departure. "Hopefully no one dies."

Gaetz, who orchestrated McCarthy's ouster, on Wednesday knocked the Californian for not finishing his term and leaving the GOP with an even slimmer majority. For all of Pelosi's "flaws," Gaetz said, she stayed in Congress after leaving the speaker's chair, abiding by a 2018 agreement to make way for the next generation of leaders.

McCarthy's retirement "is not an act of patriotism or moving on to the next fight," Gaetz said. "It is an act of abject selfishness and it is revealing that if Kevin McCarthy can't swing the gavel and be in charge and make the decisions, that he's not willing to be a team player."

A special election, scheduled by Gov. Gavin Newsom, to fill McCarthys seat is expected next year. Two prominent Republicans who could jump into this race include state Sen. Shannon Grove and Assemblymember Vince Fong.

Newsom spokeswoman Erin Mellon told The Times the governor has not yet set a date.

Read more: Kevin McCarthy isn't the only Californian who is miserable in Congress

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy has announced his retirement from Congress after he was ousted from the top job in the House of Representatives just several weeks ago.

I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways, he wrote in the Wall Street Journal on Wednesday.

Beginning the piece by calling himself an optimist Mr McCarthy went on to note that he spent 17 years representing the same congressional seat where he once was denied an internship.

Only in America, he wrote. I helped lead Republicans to a House majoritytwice. We got more Republican women, veterans and minorities elected to Congress at one time than ever before. I remained cheerfully persistent when elected speaker because I knew what we could accomplish.

On 3 October, Mr McCarthy became the only speaker in US history to be removed following the filing of a motion to vacate after he made a deal with Democrats to avoid a government shutdown, prompting the outrage of far-right members. The man who followed him in the job, former temporary speaker Patrick McHenry, has also announced his retirement.

As the son of a firefighter from Bakersfield, my story is the story of America. For me, every moment came with a great deal of devotion and responsibility.



Serving you in Congress and as the 55th Speaker of the House has been my greatest honor. pic.twitter.com/jNnYQ8UO4k  Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) December 6, 2023

The 58-year-old lasted only nine months as speaker after having struck a deal with far-right members of his party who initially refused to back his bid in January. It took 15 rounds of voting to get him the gavel, which hasnt happened since the Civil War. The deal allowed a single member to bring a motion to remove Mr McCarthy, which Rep Matt Gaetz of Florida did just over two months ago.

Mr McCarthy, who once owned a deli in his hometown of Bakersfield north of Los Angeles, joined the California Assembly in December 2002, where he rose to become minority leader, before entering the US House in January 2007 following the 2006 midterms, a strong year for the Democrats in the middle of President George W Bushs second term.

It often seems that the more Washington does, the worse America gets. I started my career as a small-business owner, and I look forward to helping entrepreneurs and risk-takers reach their full potential. The challenges we face are more likely to be solved by innovation than legislation, he wrote in the piece published on Wednesday.

Getting his first leadership position in early 2009  chief deputy whip  under Speaker John Boehner, Mr McCarthy later served as majority whip, majority leader, and leader of the Republican conference, before taking the helm of the House GOP caucus as minority leader in 2019 after the Democrats took back the House in the 2018 midterms amid pushback against the presidency of Donald Trump.

Even with slim margins in the House, we passed legislation to secure the border, achieve energy independence, reduce crime, hold government accountable and establish a Parents Bill of Rights. We did exactly what we said we would do, he wrote in The Journal of his nine months as speaker. No matter the odds, or personal cost, we did the right thing. That may seem out of fashion in Washington these days, but delivering results for the American people is still celebrated across the country.

U.S. House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) (L) talks to Rep.-elect Matt Gaetz (R-FL) in the House Chamber after Gaetz voted present during the fourth day of voting for Speaker of the House in January (Getty Images)

The chaotic process by which Mr McCarthy became speaker foreshadowed what was to come  his failure to keep together a hopelessly divided party with former President Donald Trump as its de facto leader. The constant infighting has prompted concerns about the GOPs inability to govern, with many of its members seeing their only mission in Washington as grinding the government machinery to a halt as much as they can.

In January, the Democrats remained divided behind Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries throughout the 15 rounds of balloting, with Mr McCarthy finally prevailing by a margin of 216-212, with six GOP holdouts voting present. Mr McCarthy came out of the battle as the weakest speaker in modern memory, with many seeing him as a dead man walking from the beginning.

While Mr McCarthy grew famous for his fundraising and glad-handing prowess, it became clear that he was significantly less adept at dealing with the hard right of his caucus.

In a statement, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said Mr McCarthys neighbors in Bakersfield were fortunate to have such an optimistic doer represent them for 17 years. I am proud of the work we accomplished together in the Capitol, and I wish him the very best as he writes a new chapter.

After the expected red wave failed to appear in the 2022 midterms, Republicans have been tearing themselves apart as they have struggled to govern on a slim majority, which now has become only smaller after the early resignation of Mr McCarthy and the expulsion of freshman New York GOP Rep George Santos.

Rep Marjorie Taylor Greene, a far-right member and conspiracy theorist who became a McCarthy ally, said: Now in 2024, we will have a 1 seat majority in the House of Representatives. Congratulations Freedom Caucus for one and 105 Rep who expel our own for the other. I can assure you Republican voters didnt give us the majority to crash the ship. Hopefully no one dies.

While the former speaker hailed from a deeply blue state, Mr McCarthy represented a right-leaning part of central California, an oil-producing area with a lot of farmland and a haven for country music.

Following his removal from the speakership in early October, Mr McCarthy was unclear about his future in Congress, but he later told the press that he was staying in the House and planned to run again. But it soon became clear that it was difficult for him to serve as a backbench member alongside some who had voted to remove him. The deadline for filing to run for his California seat is this Friday, 8 December.

When he was questioned about the chaos in his party throughout a myriad of crises, Mr McCarthy often quoted his father, a firefighter: Its not how you start, its how you finish.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6)  The number of reported dead after a passenger bus fell off a cliff in Hamtic, Antique on Tuesday has risen to 17, the provincial government said Wednesday.

In an interview with CNN Philippines' Balitaan, Antique Governor Rhodora Cadiao said 13 were dead on the spot, while three more died in the hospital.

One of the eight passengers who were in critical condition due to head injuries already died, she added.

Among those killed were the bus driver, conductor, and line inspector of the Ceres Liner bus, its operator Vallacar Transit Inc. confirmed.

Some of the injured passengers were taken to hospitals in Antique and Iloilo City.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said the bus was bound from Iloilo City to Antique when it encountered mechanical failure. The bus then fell off the mountainous zigzag road in Barangay Igbucagay.

The fatal incident led the LTFRB to suspend the operations of the 13 bus units of Vallacar Transit Inc. that ply the Iloilo City (Molo Terminal)  Caticlan via San Jose, Pandan route for 90 days.

"Titingnan namin 'yung ledgers sa terminal kung ano 'yung condition bago ito umalis (we will look at the ledgers of the terminal to know about the condition of the bus before it left) and of course, we will look also into the condition of the driver," LTFRB chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III said.

The bus operator assured that it is "taking all the appropriate steps to ensure that our buses are roadworthy and well-maintained."

Meanwhile, Antique Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) chief Broderick Train said that this is the second time that a Ceres bus got involved in an accident along the same road.

According to witnesses, the Antique PDRRMO said that the bus allegedly experienced brake failure while running at around 60 to 70 kilometers per hour.

According sa witness, itong nangyari na ito, tumatakbo na siya ng mga 60 to 70 [kph] palusong, Train told CNN Philippines News Night. Mahirap na pigilan dahil nawalan na nga ng brakes, according sa mga eyewitness po.

[Translation: According to a witness, the bus was running at around 60 to 70 kph. It was very hard to stop the bus because the brake failed, according to the eyewitnesses.]

The local disaster management office pointed out that there were no speed limit signages along the road.

May mga speed limit pero nung na-process na may widening diyan, tinanggal yung mga signs na yan at mga information. So hindi naibalik, so walang guidance yung ating mga driver, Train added.

[Translation: There were signages on speed limit but they were removed during a road widening project. They were not put back, so there was nothing to guide the drivers.]

Both the Antique provincial government and the bus operator will provide financial assistance to the family of the victims, this includes burial expenses.

Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Office directed the regional director of LTO-Western Visayas to launch an investigation into the incident.

All LTO regional directors were also ordered to boost the conduct of road worthiness inspection, as well as the "no registration, no travel" policy.

Antique-based correspondent Carla Doromal contributed to this story.
This story was originally published by WFAE and La Noticia on April 17, 2023 as part of WFAEs Race & Equity Project, EQUALibrium.







Earlier this year, Yesenia Rios moved into her first home, a three-bedroom house in Kannapolis.

The atmosphere on moving day felt a bit like a block party. Parked cars lined the street and dozens of people, from elected officials to church leaders, gathered in her front yard to celebrate.

This day came after years of work, marked by ups and downs.

Five years ago, I moved from New York looking for a new start for me and my children. Ive been moving for the last five years from place to place. This will be my fifth time moving, and this will be the last, she told the crowd.

Rios is one of three heads of household to become a homeowner this year through Habitat for Humanity in Cabarrus County, north of Charlotte. To qualify, she put in about 250 work hours and helped build the house with other Habitat volunteers.

She explained in a phone interview that Habitat was her pathway to achieving stability and affordable homeownership.

When I moved to this state, things got complicated for me. I ended up in a Christian shelter, she said.

She met Habitat volunteers at the shelter, which had a housing program, and began her journey to becoming a homeowner.

Visitors wait to congratulate Yesenia Rios, center, on receiving the keys to her first home.

Young, rapidly growing demographic

Rios, who was born in the United States and grew up in Mexico, made homeownership a priority. And in many ways, she represents the future of the home-buying market.

Over the next 20 years, Latinos are forecast to represent the bulk of new homebuyers in the U.S., despite persisting economic and structural barriers. Thats what researcher Jun Zhu and her colleagues at the Urban Institute in Washington, D.C., found.

Between 2020 and 2040, if youre talking about the homeownership increase, 70% of the new net homeowners are actually Hispanic, Zhu said. This is a big deal.

Latinos are the fastest-growing demographic in North Carolina and the U.S. and theyre a younger demographic, which means more of them are entering their peak years for home buying.

They are younger. They have less income and wealth. And if we do the comparison for the credit score, they have a little bit lower credit score, Zhu said. But family size. [They have] large family sizes, and the majority of them actually live in a multigeneration family. So thats very unique to Hispanics.

Mercedes Dockery has worked as a real estate agent in the Charlotte area for the past seven years. She says around 90% of her clients are Latino.

They are looking for land. They love to have land and to be spaced out from other houses, she said.

That can mean leaving Charlotte, where the affordable housing market is limited. Many of Dockerys clients are looking at places like Monroe, Gastonia or Fort Mill.

UNC Charlotte found that only 3.8% of the homes sold in Charlotte last year were valued under $150,000. (Thats a little under the value of Rios new home in Kannapolis). About 25% were valued under $300,000.

Securing a mortgage for under $150,000 can be difficult, said Tara Roche of Pew Trusts home financing project. She says the lack of access to lower-value mortgages is an issue leading certain homebuyers to explore alternative financing, like land contracts or rent-to-own agreements.

Black, Hispanic and Indigenous families, and some households in rural geographies, have lower levels of mortgage lending and higher levels of alternative financing, Roche said.

Alternative financing arrangements can come with greater risks and higher costs for people who are on their pathway to homeownership.

Homeownership rates by race and ethnicity of the homeowner, 2002-22.

The demographic most likely to use alternative financing was Latino buyers. Pew Trusts found that 34% of Latino homebuyers had used alternative financing, compared to 23% of Black homebuyers and 19% of white homebuyers.

For people who are using land contracts, for example, they dont get the deed upfront, so that means they cant tap into any of the equity that would be built in the home the way you could if you were a mortgage holder, Roche said. Youre at increased risk of foreclosure or eviction because you dont hold (the) title to that home.

Urban Institute researcher Todd Hill explains that structural barriers continue to depress homeownership rates in communities of color.

Much like what weve seen with Black homeownership initiatives and marginalized communities and communities of color that attempt to pursue homeownership, you still have a number of systemic and historical policies that have been in place that have impacted the ability for these particular communities to access credit and pursue homeownership.

You still have a trust deficit that exists with the Hispanic community, with (the) African American community and other communities that have traditionally been sort of locked out of homeownership opportunities, Hill said.

Analysis by Construction Coverage identified a 26% gap in the homeownership rate between whites and people of color who are homeowners in the Charlotte metro area. Thats a few percentage points higher than the nationwide gap of 22.3%. Even with the forecast growth in Latino home buying, this gap isnt expected to narrow by much in the coming decades.

To encourage sustainable homeownership, Hill says theres a need to educate prospective buyers about their financing options. He says there are more than 2,500 down-payment assistance programs nationwide.

I think really one of the factors is housing counseling. When you look at, for example, the ability for a counselor to navigate the mortgage process, they can help to build knowledge and confidence in the home buying process, he said. A counselor can also assist in case of language barriers.

Roche said she would also like to see alternative financing recognized on a policy level, to protect buyers from losing their investments.

Listen to the original story at WFAE here.

This story is part of I Cant Afford to Live Here, a collaborative reporting project focused on solutions to the affordable housing crisis in Charlotte.

WFAE and La Noticia are part of the Charlotte Journalism Collaborative (CJC), launched by the Solutions Journalism Network with funding from the Knight Foundation. The CJC strengthens the local news ecosystem and increases opportunities for engagement. It is supported by a combination of local and national grants and sponsorships. For more information, visit charlottejournalism.org.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6)  There were only 28 Chinese maritime militia vessels swarming the Julian Felipe Reef in the West Philippine Sea as of Tuesday, down from around 135 vessels reported on Dec. 2, the Western Command of the country's armed forces said.

The count came from the aerial patrol conducted on Tuesday by security officials in the contested waterway, WESCOM Commander Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos told lawmakers in a public hearing on Wednesday.

Carlos said they monitored on Nov. 5 and 6 around 60 Chinese vessels in the area, before increasing to 90 on Nov. 13 then 135 by Dec. 2.

Two Philippine Navy (PN) vessels in the area issued radio challenges, and monitored and documented the presence of Chinese vessels during the first monitoring, Carlos said.

But he added that only when the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) conducted its patrol on Dec. 2 that "we noticed that they (Chinese vessels) reacted and they left Julian Felipe (Reef)."

On Sunday, the PCG said its vessels issued radio challenges against the Chinese ships but these were ignored.

Response not enough?

However, House Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro was dissatisfied with the situation, saying that the PCG seemed to have a "late reaction" to the swarming incident.

"Whether magkaroon ng Chinese vesel doon o hindi, sana naging proactive tayo, hindi reactive, mag-one month bago mag-react," Castro said, adding existing procedures appeared not to be effective.

[Translation: Whether Chinese vessels are there or not, I hope that we should have been proactive, not reactive. The reaction came after a month.]

Their discussion became a heated argument as PCG spokesperson for the WPS Commodore Jay Tarriela explained the agency's side, highlighting the forces' limited assets that make almost 24/7 patrols not feasible.

RELATED: AFP: Making swarm of Chinese ships leave Julian Felipe Reef next to impossible

"Are we effective in doing what we're doing right now? I think so...Now here in the Julian Felipe, are we going to celebrate this already, with the 135 down to 28? I think so," he said.

Castro responded that this is not a cause for celebration as even one Chinese vessel present in the WPS is a violation of the country's sovereignty.

"My god, wag naman natin sinasabi sa China, 'Sige, punta na kayo dito, after all di naman namin kayo kaya eh,'" said Mandaluyong City Rep. Neptali Gonzales, who chairs the House Special Committee on West Philippine Sea.

[Translation: My god, let's not say to China, "Come here because we cannot handle you.]

For his part, Oriental Mindoro Rep. Arnan Panaligan said the PN and PCG are "doing their very best in securing our territorial waters and the exclusive economic zone (EEZ)." He added lawmakers cannot fault them for having limited resources.

"We're trying to present a different menu of responses in doing our RORE (rotational and resupply mission) so that it would complicate matters for China and that would give us a greater chance of success," National Security Council Assistant Director General Francis Lauengco also said.

PN studying situation on gray ship patrols

Both Gonzales and Panaligan considered that gray ships or military vessels in disputed waters may help in diminishing the number of Chinese ships within the country's EEZ in the WPS.

When asked if gray ships also encounter "harassment" from Chinese coast guard vessels or Chinese maritime militia vessels, Carlos said the PCG faces "more aggressive actions" compared to the country's navy vessels.

"Chinese action against Philippine Navy vessels is usually limited to shadowing at a distance about 5 to 8 nautical miles," Carlos also said. "But we have one incident where they crossed our bow, Chinese gray ship crossing the bow of a Philippine Navy's."

READ: PH warns off Chinese Navy ship after attempt to interrupt another resupply mission in WPS

"It appears that the Chinese Coast Guard and the Chinese maritime militia, they are more careful whenever it is the navy that is patrolling. Maybe because your vessels are surface combatant compared to coast guard vessels," Panaligan replied.

Carlos said security officials are still assessing the situation and China's behavior.

They went into an executive session to discuss the situation in the WPS further.
Lawmakers say Congress could be closing in on a top-line deal on overall government funding for most of next year, as the House and Senate race to reach a compromise in time to avert a shutdown next month.

Spending cardinals in both chambers Tuesday said they could receive a top-line spending level from leadership for Congresss 12 annual government funding bills in the coming days, as Republicans and Democrats clamor to begin negotiations.

While Sen. Susan Collins (Maine), the top Republican on the Senate Appropriations Committee, said Tuesday that shes not directly involved in the negotiations, she told The Hill she expects them to be concluded this week.

GOP appropriators on the House side have also said leadership indicated the number could come this week.

Sometime this week, yeah, Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.) told The Hill on Tuesday. The Speaker said about midweek, so I think so.

Pressed on whether leadership would have a top-line deal this week, however, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) told The Hill: Were working on it.

Republicans in both chambers say theyre expecting the number to be close to the spending cap agreed to as part of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), the debt ceiling deal agreed to between then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) and President Biden earlier this year.

Lawmakers set the cap for annual government funding hashed out by Congress for fiscal 2024 at $1.59 trillion at the time. The compromise came as part of a larger bipartisan deal that federal budget analysts said could reduce the nations deficit projections by $1.5 trillion over the next decade.

However, questions remain about where a side deal to yank back tens of billions of dollars in funding for Democratic initiatives greenlit in the previous Congress stands, as some conservatives object to a handshake agreement between GOP leaders and the White House to reinvest those dollars into nondefense programs.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of the Senate appropriations panel, said Tuesday that she expects the eventual top line to look similar to the level set in the FRA, but without the side deal numbers.

Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), another appropriator, said hes also heard the Speaker was suggesting the number negotiated without any add-ons. He acknowledged the potential change would represent a significant change to the deal, but its closer than where weve ever been.

However, some Democrats are already pushing back on the prospect.

A deal is a deal is a deal, Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), an appropriator, said of the idea. I think theres no way were going to get to an appropriations deal if people cant hold to their commitments.

He added even $10 billion could make a difference in budget talks. Were going to be scrounging for everything we can find.

So, this matters in terms of the money, but it also matters in terms of whether or not any agreement we make with the House can even hold, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  House lawmakers are worried about a rise in antisemitism on college campuses. They are calling for an effort to combat this issue.

University presidents were in the hot seat Tuesday, facing questions from lawmakers, like Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.), about how their schools respond to antisemitism on their campuses.

How do we get into the mud and do the real work of fighting antisemitism, Bowman asked.

The immediate action is very important and the calling out of the hateful action, University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill said.

Since the October 7th attack, the anti-defamation league reports a more than 300% increase of antisemitism across the country.

What action will be taken, Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) asked.

Stefanik pressed Harvards president on whether students would face consequences.

Will admissions offers be rescinded or any disciplinary action be taken against students or applicants who say, from the river to the sea or intifada, advocating for the murder of Jews, Stefanik asked.

That type of hateful reckless, offensive speech is personally abhorrent to me, Harvard University President Dr. Claudine Gay said.

The Council on American Islamic Relations, or CAIR, reports Islamophobic incidents have doubled from last year, but Rep. Bob Good (R-Va.) pushed back.

Its wrong to suggest that antisemitism and Islamaphobia are equivalent problems in this country, Good said.

CAIR national deputy director Edward Ahmed Mitchell says there is no room for any kind of hate.

All of it is unacceptable, Mitchell said.

He also said there should be room to protest.

We have to make sure were not confusing criticism of a foreign government for an act of bigotry, Mitchell said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
Both Republican and Democratic members of the House tore into three university presidents Tuesday at a hearing focused on the responses their colleges have had to the rise in antisemitism since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack.

The presidents of Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) all had to defend their policies, though they often declined to give specifics.

Today, each of you have a chance to answer to atone for the many specific instances of vitriolic, hate-filled antisemitism on your respective campuses that have denied students the safe learning environment, Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.), chairwoman for the House Education Committee, told them in her opening statement.

All three used their speaking time to highlight efforts they have made to protect Jewish students, such as increasing campus security, providing mental health services and investigating complaints of antisemitism.

UPenn President Liz Magill pointed to an action plan announced last month at her school that focuses on security, engagement and education. The university also created a task force that will identify concrete actionable recommendations and produce a report.

Our campus actions to date have protected students safety, minimized disruptions to campus activities and protected the right to free expression, said Sally Kornbluth, the head of MIT, also mentioning efforts the school has made to educate students on antisemitism even before the Oct. 7 attack.

These answers failed to satisfy lawmakers.

Rep. Donald Norcross (D-N.J.) went after Magill for a festival that was held at UPenn by students where antisemitic speakers were invited.

While Magill said she personally condemns those speakers views, she added the school will not censor based on the content.

Norcross then asked if Magill would allow speakers with racist views at her campus, to which she only responded that the school would follow our policies.

Harvard President Claudine Gay took some of the biggest hits in the hearing, fielding complaints that the school does not care about intellectual diversity and could have been influenced by foreign money in its response to the Oct. 7 attack.

Gay said it is a hard task balancing free speech with safety in these times, admitting in her opening statement she had not always gotten it right. She denounced speech she found abhorrent, such as calls to intifada since the attack, and she said it is not OK for students to shout down speakers with whom they disagree.

The Israel-Hamas war has created hotbeds of controversy on college campuses, with numerous protests for and against Israel over the past two months that have led to assaults and complaints of antisemitism and Islamophobia.

Even at the hearing, protesters could be heard yelling from the hallway.

Members of the public were dressed in Israeli and Palestinian flags and symbols and attempted to grab a seat in the hearing. Many were ushered to an overflow room, but some stayed outside the hearing room where commotion was overheard inside.

Several people outside called for a cease-fire now, and others asked what happened before October 7th? Capitol police told people to stay away from the hearing room door.

Republicans allowed Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), a Harvard alum, to speak six times, and she peppered Gay with questions while reiterating her calls for the school presidents resignation.

Stefanik asked each university president if the call to genocide against Jewish people violates bullying or harassment policies on their campuses.

If the speech becomes conduct, it can be harassment, Magill said.

Conduct meaning committing the act of genocide? Stefanik fired back.

Each president said that it depends on the context of how the call is made, leading Stefanik to say such answers are unacceptable.

Rep. Brandon Williams (R-N.Y.), who is a graduate of UPenn and was a visiting student at Harvard for a year, said it was unfortunate to be connected to such institutions after their behavior.

Several Democratic lawmakers also highlighted instances of Islamophobia and other forms of hate on college campuses on the rise since the conflict began.

Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.) asked Gay to detail the steps taken by Harvard to support Palestinian students since the start of the conflict, but she ran out of time to provide an answer.

Fellow Connecticut Rep. Joe Courtney (D) called out House Republicans for denouncing antisemitism while also calling for budget cuts to the Department of Educations Civil Rights Office, which investigates discrimination including antisemitism and Islamophobia.

He also highlighted the recent shooting of three Palestinian students in Burlington, Vt., near a campus last week. The shooting, he said, proves why the office needs to get full funding as the House continues to discuss the governments fiscal 2024 budget.

Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Mich.) raised a question about government intervention on college campuses in reference to recent efforts to limit academic diversity, equity and inclusion programs, in addition to discrimination and hate. She asked what happens when we allow the government to dictate what is going on on college campuses, particularly what were seeing in Florida and in West Virginia.

The hearing went into recess for lawmakers to vote on a resolution condemning the drastic rise of antisemitism. All Republicans voted for the resolution, which clearly and firmly states that anti-Zionism is antisemitism, while Democrats were split on the issue.

The vote ended 311-14-92.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
MSNBCs Lawrence ODonnell on Tuesday argued why he believes House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) is an accessory after the fact for actively trying to prevent arrests of Donald Trump supporters who attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, by blurring their faces on footage he is releasing of the riot.

Johnson, earlier in the day, said he didnt want those who were caught on camera participating in the insurrection to be retaliated against and to be charged by the DOJ.

ODonnell was incensed.

That is the first time in history that a speaker of the House has said that he doesnt want people who committed federal crimes to be charged by the Department of Justice, the Last Word anchor commented. That is the mission of an accessory after the fact. An accessory after the fact is trying to prevent the apprehension of criminals, trying to prevent the punishment of criminals.

Johnson is a cultist in the middle of a cult, ODonnell continued, contrasting the speakers efforts to fire IRS workers who investigate federal tax crimes with his hiring of new federal workers wholl blur the videos to cover up crimes.

Mike Johnson is the most pro-crime speaker in the history of the House of Representatives, ODonnell alleged. In fact, hes the only one. Hes the only one who has ever publicly admitted to participating and leading a cover-up of federal crimes.

Many of those charged in the attack were only arrested after being spotted by citizens in footage from the violence, said ODonnell. But Mike Johnson wants to prevent all of that. Mike Johnson wants to stop every one of those arrests that can still be made because an alert citizen makes a call to the FBI. He wants to stop possibly hundreds of arrests that could be made.

Watch ODonnells analysis here:

Related...
Editors note: This story was updated at 6:53 p.m. EST with additional information.

The lawyer selected to be the Armys first top prosecutor of sexual assaults under an overhaul of the military justice system has been fired because of an email he sent 10 years ago appearing to belittle victims assault allegations.

Brig. Gen. Warren Wells was removed from the job on Friday by Army Secretary Christine Wormuth, just hours after she was given the email.

Wells was the Armys new lead special trial counsel for cases involving sexual assault and other top crimes  a job created as part of Congress push to revamp a military justice system it believed could be overly deferential to service members accused of sexual misconduct. The office was expected to begin work around the end of the year.

This photo provided by the U.S. Army shows Brig. Gen. Warren Wells. (U.S. Army via AP)

In the email, sent to a number of his staff members in June 2013, Wells complained about what he said were false allegations by some alleged victims, pointing to the firing of an Army two-star general in Japan for failing to properly investigate a sexual assault charge in his command.

Wells, who was a lieutenant colonel and the Armys defense counsel for the Great Plains region in Kansas at the time, told his staff that you and your teams are now the ONLY line of defense against false allegations and sobriety regret. He told them they now were the only defenders of troops no one will defend, even when all signs indicate innocence.

Congress and our political masters are dancing by the fire of misleading statistics and one-sided, repetitive misinformation by those with an agenda, he said.

Wells comments, which were part of a longer staff email on other topics, raised questions about whether he could effectively and fairly do the new job  which is under a political microscope.

In a statement, Wormuth spokesperson Army Col. Randee Farrell said Wormuth relieved Wells of his duties based on a loss of trust and confidence in his ability to lead the Army office. Wormuth concluded that the email Wells sent negatively characterized developments in sexual assault response at the time and was dismissive of the principle of civilian control of the military exercised by both the executive branch and Congress.

In a statement provided to The Associated Press through the Army, Wells said the comments in his email were inappropriate.

My intent was to reinforce that defense counsel were a critical protection for soldiers accused of wrongdoing, he said. I do not want my comments to divert attention from the excellent work being done by the new Office of Special Trial Counsel to prosecute special victim crimes and care for victims.

He has been reassigned to another job on the Army staff, and Farrell said Wormuth has designated Army Col. Robert Rodrigues as the acting lead counsel. Rodrigues had been serving as Wells deputy lead trial counsel.

Members of Congress have been frustrated for years with the militarys prosecution of sexual assault cases and they pushed to remove commanders from the decision-making process on the cases. They charged that too often commanders would try to protect alleged perpetrators who were in their unit.

As a result, the Pentagon has been moving to a new system that uses independent military lawyers to handle sexual misconduct and some other major crimes.

According to Army officials, the email came to light as part of unrelated allegations of gender discrimination and other inappropriate behavior by Wells when dealing with a lower-ranking female officer a number of years ago. The allegations were made in a January email after Wells Senate confirmation for the job was made public and he had started the job.

The email accused Wells of abuse of authority, mistreatment and gender discrimination while he was in the regional job in Kansas from 2012 to 2014. The complaint was reviewed by the Army inspector general and the Defense Department inspector general. Both concluded that the allegations were unsubstantiated and there wasnt enough there to open a formal investigation.

According to officials, the woman, now a civilian, then went to the defense advisory committee that was set up to make recommendations on the sexual assault prosecution overhaul and submitted additional records. Officials said the email from Wells to his staff was among the documents she provided to the committee.

Wormuth received copies of the documents on Friday and after seeing the email fired Wells later that day.
Attorneys for survivors of child sex abuse in Maryland are set to defend a law that victims advocates fought to enact for decades: It enables victims to sue their abusers, or the institutions that enabled them, no matter the victims age or how much time has passed since their torment.

Marylands Child Victims Act came under fire in a pair of lawsuits brought under the landmark law in Montgomery and Prince Georges counties targeting the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington.

The Washington diocese, which is incorporated in Maryland, last month argued the law is unconstitutional in a request to throw out both complaints, which claimed child sexual abuse by clergy.

Friday is the deadline for survivors in both cases to defend the child victims law  or argue why they believe its constitutional.

The legislature anticipated this legal battle: When lawmakers passed the Child Victims Act in the spring, they included a provision allowing a mid-case appeal almost certainly leading to the Supreme Court of Maryland. But that means the arguments being hashed out now in county court documents likely foreshadow what lawyers will present eventually to the states highest court.

In motions filed in the Montgomery County and Prince Georges County lawsuits, church lawyers said the Maryland General Assembly gave defendants special immunity in 2017 by creating whats known as a statute of repose, as part of a bill extending to 38 the age by which a child sex abuse survivor could sue. They argue that provision creates a vested right, or something lawmakers cannot simply undo.

If a court finds that the 2017 provision did not provide immunity, lawyers for the diocese added, the legislature repealing the age cutoff amounts to taking away a right from defendants.

A statute of repose, by its very nature, cannot be retroactively repealed, and the legislatures effort to do so was a clear violation of the due process clause and takings clause of the Maryland Constitution, church lawyers wrote.

Attorneys for abuse survivors say they have strong points to defeat both parts of the churchs argument.

We fervently believe that its not a statute of repose, that its a statute of limitations, said Jonathan Schochor, whose firm represents the plaintiffs in the Prince Georges County lawsuit. The legislature on numerous occasions has retroactively changed the statute of limitations, which this clearly is. Therefore, the Archdiocese of Washington has no constitutionally protected interest.

Robert K. Rob Jenner, one of the lawyers representing the plaintiff suing the Washington diocese in Montgomery County, agrees. But even if a court decides the 2017 law did create a statute of repose, the legislature has the power to change it, he said.

Theyve created it and they can modify it, Jenner said. Thats been done before and it will happen in the future. Theres nothing unique about a legislative body changing a statute.

The only other known statute of repose in Maryland is found in the construction industry, according to experts. In that context, the legal provision protects the likes of builders and architects from liability stemming from an injury someone sustains in the buildings they created after a certain amount of time has passed since the building was constructed  no matter when that person was hurt.

But Maryland lawmakers adjusted that statute of repose in 1991, carving out an exception for claims related to buildings constructed using asbestos.

The Maryland Catholic Conference, the churchs lobbying arm, fought for the change at the time, arguing that the three dioceses that operate in Maryland needed to be able to sue the builders who constructed Catholic schools or else face a daunting financial burden to fix the schools.

Kathleen Hoke, a law professor at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, sees the asbestos example as one point in the plaintiffs favor.

Our legislature in Maryland has demonstrated, in 1991, what were saying, and that is: In Maryland, these types of procedural bars can be changed with retroactive effect for really good public policy reasons, Hoke said.

After the plaintiffs responses are filed in each case, the churchs lawyers will have a certain amount of time to submit a written reply. Then, a judge will set a hearing to have oral arguments.

For such a complicated legal question, a judge is likely to render a written opinion rather than ruling from the bench immediately following argument, said Hoke.

Once the court decides, Hoke said, whichever party loses has a right to appeal to the Appellate Court of Maryland.

Whoever appeals can simultaneously submit a petition asking the state Supreme Court to take up the case.

We all predict the Supreme Court will just take the case, Hoke added, because its a legal question of first impression, super important public policy issue.

Hoke said the appeals courts could take just one of the Montgomery and Prince Georges cases, or combine them.

Philip C. Federico, an attorney representing the abuse survivor in the Montgomery County lawsuit, said the plaintiffs lawyers have been working together to solidify their legal arguments, despite not being particularly collaborative historically.

Were up against the best of the best and the deepest of the pockets, Federico said. We believe were up to the challenge.

In the Prince Georges County case, three men say they were abused as young children by priests, deacons or other Washington diocese employees while they attended churches or schools in Prince Georges or Montgomery counties. A class action lawsuit, the complaint says their experiences mirrored those of other victims.

The Montgomery County lawsuit alleges a man suffered horrific sexual abuse at the hands of a priest in a Gaithersburg church he attended as a child. The church knew of the priests predatory behavior before the plaintiff was abused, but allowed the clergyman to continue to interact with children, according to the complaint.

The Baltimore Sun does not identify victims of sexual abuse without their permission.

The legal fight over the Child Victims Act is unfolding alongside the Archdiocese of Baltimores bankruptcy case. Just two days before the child victims law took effect this fall, the Baltimore diocese declared bankruptcy to limit its liability against potential damages and protect its assets in anticipation of a flood of lawsuits claiming child sex abuse by clergy.

A report by Marylands Office of the Attorney General released in April, which laid out the findings of a four-year investigation into child sex abuse in the Baltimore diocese, Americas oldest, revealed 156 clergy and other church officials tormented and molested more than 600 children and young adults dating to the 1940s.

Filing for bankruptcy effectively will create a different, earlier statute of limitations, for child sex abuse claims against the Baltimore diocese. The bankruptcy case is expected to span up to three years.

Its difficult to say how long the appeal will take, but courts across the state are likely to put a freeze on other lawsuits filed under the Child Victims Act  whether theyre against a state agency or a prestigious private school  until the state Supreme Court rules on the laws constitutionality.

Steven J. Kelly, who also represents the Montgomery County plaintiff, said it has been difficult to tell clients, many of whom for decades fought for the right to sue their abusers, that they have to wait a little longer for their day in court.

Its very traumatic, Kelly said. The uncertainty, the waiting, its killer. Some people wont survive to see their claims resolved.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6)  The Department of Health (DOH) confirmed there are four cases of "walking pneumonia" in the country but assures the public that all have recovered.

"As of November 25, 2023, there are a total of four confirmed cases of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection among reported Influenza-like Illness (ILI) cases. These cases have been reported in the previous morbidity weeks 3, 30, 37, and 38, with one case each," the DOH said at a briefing.

In a separate statement, the department said medicines to treat the pathogen are available in the county and local doctors "can easily prevent its transmission."

"All these cases (of M. pneumoniae) have recovered. More than half of confirmed ILI cases were due to other well-known and commonly detected pathogens," the DOH said.

It added that walking pneumonia is "not new or unusual" and has been previously detected among other cases.

"This is not a notifiable disease globally. The DOH can scan but we depend on what the media or the World Health Organization (WHO) will report. So far, the only country that has recorded incidents of Mycoplasma pneumoniae is China," the DOH said.

The WHO describes Mycoplasma pneumoniae as a common bacterial infection that typically affects younger children. It is treated by antibiotics, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Last week, Health Undersecretary Eric Tayag told CNN Philippines there were no cases reported locally as the illness infects more people in China.

Tayag explained the Philippines has recorded the illness before, but physicians nowadays would immediately prescribe antibiotics for a suspected patient once they detect the illness symptoms.

The DOH is urging the public to prevent respiratory infections from spreading even further by practicing minimum health standards including washing of hands, social distancing, wearing of masks especially among the vulnerable and those who have cough and colds, and getting vaccinated.
I was disappointed by Herald-Tribune columnist Chris Anderson's Dec. 1 opinion piece regarding the rape allegations against Florida Republican Party Chairman Christian Ziegler ("Christian Ziegler is a Republican. He must be guilty, right?").

Anderson's column was apparently warning people not to prejudge Ziegler because he is "innocent until proven guilty." I am a retired prosecutor, and I would like to point out a few things Anderson may not have been aware of.

Eileen Walsh Normile

"Innocent until proven guilty" really refers to a defendant being proven guilty "beyond a reasonable doubt" in the criminal context. It is a heavy burden of proof for the prosecutor; there are times when a guilty defendant is found "not guilty" because the jury had doubts that they considered reasonable. However, it is important to note that the wording of the finding is "not guilty"  it is not "innocent."

The burden of proof for a civil matter is based on "preponderance of the evidence"  the bulk of the evidence proves guilt, but it is not beyond a reasonable doubt. Many people who escape criminal liability are later found guilty in a civil court because of the difference in the burden of proof that must be met. In other words, a defendant actually was guilty  it's just that this individual will not go to prison.

I mention this because in the Ziegler case  even at the point in time when Anderson wrote his column  there was already indicia of proof that could easily be extrapolated.

The existence of a search warrant is the most important, and police need probable cause to convince a judge to sign a search warrant. It is not easy to get search warrants; indeed, judges very closely guard the search and seizure protections that are provided under the Fourth Amendment.

The approval of the search warrant was strong evidence that a crime had been committed, and that evidence had to be both good and concrete to merit the judge's signature.

Later, we learned that emails, texts, security videos, phone calls, "excited utterances" which are exceptions to the hearsay rule  rape kit evidence, witnesses to the victim's behavior, 911 calls and more were in the affidavit regarding the accusations against Ziegler. And there is likely much more material that has not yet been revealed.

In short, the reported victim is entitled to the same "benefit of the doubt" that Anderson provided to Ziegler in his column. While Ziegler received the benefit of the doubt when Anderson mentioned that an estimated 5% to 10% of sexual assault cases are falsely reported, shouldn't the columnist have afforded the reported victim the same treatment by also noting that would mean 90% to 95% of cases are truthfully reported?

And where were the statistics detailing how many defendants lie about their behavior in such cases? The fact is the accused has everything to gain by lying; the accuser, meanwhile, has everything to lose by coming forward. But where was this calculus in Anderson's column?

The reason why the Zieglers are receiving such heavy media coverage is a result of their public lives and the contrasting irony of the current allegations against Christian Ziegler. Their political beliefs are based on their own choices, and the same applies to their behaviors. Such notoriety, however, has nothing to do with "innocent until proven guilty."

But here is what was never mentioned in Anderson's column: the reported victim has also faced some choices. She has had to choose whether to remain silent and take no action - or to take on a powerful, politically connected man and an onerous legal system in an effort to win back her self-respect.

In his column, Anderson opined that it was important to be "fair" to Ziegler as this case unfolds. But a call to display fairness toward everyone involved in this matter would have been far more accurate  and far more appropriate.

Eileen Walsh Normile is a retired criminal prosecutor and a former Sarasota city commissioner. She also previously served as chair of Sarasota's planning board.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Christian Ziegler's accuser deserves the 'benefit of the doubt,' too
Mourners attend the funeral of an Israeli soldier killed in Gaza in Modiin, Israel, on Nov. 17. (Ohad Zwigenberg / Associated Press)

To the editor: Rashid Khalidi's op-ed article, "How the U.S. has fueled Israel's decades-long war on Palestinians," rewrites history.

His characterization of the conflict as a "colonial" war belittles the Jewish peoples ancestral ties to Israel and indigenous status there. He also omits the expulsion of more than 850,000 Jews from Arab lands and Iran after Israel's establishment in 1948.

He seemingly justifies the 1948, 1967 and 1973 wars aimed at destroying Israel, and ignores Israels peace proposals for Palestinian statehood, which were violently rejected.

Finally, he ignores Hamas' barbarity. On Oct. 7, it burned children and slaughtered hundreds of young people at a music festival. Hamas kidnapped, raped, mutilated and massacred Israelis to provoke a war, then cynically used Gaza's civilians as human shields, maximizing Palestinian casualties.

As Hamas official Ghazi Hamad said, Hamas is "proud to sacrifice martyrs" to annihilate Israel.

America is right to support Israel.

Stephen A. Silver, San Francisco

..

To the editor: Khalidi's piece is most notable for its contradictions and omissions.

He acknowledges the "unquestionable connection of Judaism and the Jewish people" to Israel. But he also calls Israeli Jews colonial settlers.

Colonists have no previous connection to the land theyve settled. But the Jewish connection to Israel, as Khalidi writes, is unquestionable.

Indeed, Jews are indigenous to Israel. Some never left their Israeli homes, while others have forever been returning home to Israel from their forced exile in foreign lands.

No amount of revisionism can alter the literary, historical and archaeological facts establishing Israel as the Jewish ancestral home.

Rosette Liberman, Pittsford, N.Y.

..

To the editor: I was raised to respect and honor Israel. In recent years the policies of the Israeli government, under the likes of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have forced me to completely change my thinking.

I agree completely with Khalidi.

I am 80 years old. So, members of the 18-34 age group are not alone in their disapproval of President Biden's handling of the war on Gaza, not to mention the slow ethnic cleansing of the West Bank.

Noel Park, Rancho Palos Verdes

..

To the editor: Without debating here the rights and wrongs of each side to the conflict, what is certain is that blame for the failure to resolve it lies largely with those like Khalidi who have used their status and influence over many years to perpetuate the Palestinian delusion that Israel can be overthrown and demolished by the use of force.

Khalidi justifies that approach ideologically on the grounds that Israel is a colonial power, not a sovereign state.

How many more wars will be required before each side to the conflict decides that a different approach is required? On the Palestinian side, that would begin by rejecting Khalidi's incitement to embrace the false narrative that Israel is a colonial power.

Jonathan Goldberg, Los Angeles

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, the first woman on the Supreme Court, takes the oath of office on Sept. 25, 1981. (Associated Press)

To the editor: The GOP's antiabortion zealots learned a hard lesson from the late Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor's embrace of Roe vs. Wade  that many conservative women harbor moderate, pro-choice views. ("I thought Sandra Day O'Connor was too conservative. Now her moderation would be a godsend," Opinion, Dec. 3)

Then-President Trump proclaimed that he would pick a "very brave" woman  implying that she would not be a moderate  to fill the third high court vacancy of his tenure after Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died in September 2020.

With Amy Coney Barrett having famously urged lawyers to build the "kingdom of God," Trump found the perfect nominee to please his solidly antiabortion evangelical base. As a justice, Barrett ultimately ruled to reverse Roe, some 30 years after O'Connor had joined in upholding that landmark decision.

Truly, O'Connor should be lionized for calling to account those who would "renegotiate the boundaries between church and state."

P. Jane Weil, Sacramento

..

To the editor: It must be acknowledged that O'Connor participated in a number of decisions that were moderate from a conservative point of view. On the other hand, it should be remembered that, in what was arguably the most important decision while on the court  Bush vs. Gore  she engaged in rank rationalization to achieve the result she desired.

In his book "Supreme Injustice," Alan Dershowitz went through the opinions of each of the justices in the majority showing how, in order to reach the "desired" result, they ignored language they either wrote or had agreed to in prior decisions. Had such language and holdings been followed, it would have required them to decide in favor of then-Vice President Al Gore.

O'Connor had many fine qualities, but when it came time for her to act with integrity, she chose to be a partisan. This should impact her legacy for as long as our nation is able to endure.

Joel Drum, Van Nuys

..

To the editor: When I think of O'Connor, I recall these words from her 1982 Stanford commencement address:

"Other societies have not had the same need of lawyers or courts that we have here. While Japan affords perhaps the most extreme example, it is interesting to note that in Japan there is one lawyer for every 10,000 citizens, whereas in California there is one lawyer for every 233 citizens."

I found this mildly amusing as I sat there receiving my engineering degree just a few rows from disheartened law school graduates who had just heard a Supreme Court Justice effectively state that we have too many lawyers in this country.

Donald Bentley, La Puente

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
With the Republican Party of Kentuckys chair stepping down, a familiar face to Frankfort and Lexington is vying for the state GOPs top spot.

Robert Benvenuti, a health care attorney and former state representative in Lexington, has thrown his hat in the ring to become the next chair for the Republican Party of Kentucky.

While talk of other candidates has taken place since former chair Mac Brown stepped down late last month, Benvenuti is the only person to have contacted all members of the Republican Party of Kentuckys Executive Committee and the Republican State Central Committee declaring his intent to seek the chairmanship.

Benvenuti is no stranger to politics. Under the administration of former GOP Gov. Ernie Fletcher during the mid 2000s, he served as inspector general for the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. He later held the Lexington-based House District 88 (now occupied by House Democratic Caucus Chair Cherlynn Stevenson) for three terms, from 2013 to 2018.

While I have remained quietly involved in Kentucky Republican politics since leaving elected office, I believe I now have more to offer the Republican Party of Kentucky, Benvenuti wrote in an email to party executive committee and state central committee members, which was provided to the Herald-Leader by some recipients. I have thoughtfully and prayerfully considered whether as chairman I have the ability to continue to build upon the great success of the Republican party in Kentucky, particularly that which has taken place over the past two decades.

Others have mulled the idea of going for the chairmanship but have since backed out.

Alan Keck, the young Somerset mayor who made headlines with a splashy campaign but fell to fifth place in the GOP gubernatorial primary, told the Herald-Leader that hed received some encouragement to run for chair. Ultimately, he decided against it.

While there has been a humbling and exciting amount of encouragement to pursue the role of chairman, I have decided to remain focused on my work as mayor and enjoying some needed time with family, Keck told the Herald-Leader. I appreciate everyone across the state who reached out. The future of our party and our commonwealth is so incredibly bright.

The process for electing a new chair is kicked off by the 50-plus members of the executive committee, who serve as the nominating committee. Then, the full Republican State Central Committee  made up of local party chairs and vice chairs, statehouse elected officials and more  takes a vote to confirm the executive committees nomination.

The vote is set to take place Saturday.

Benvenuti did not respond to calls or emails to his law office, but wrote in the email to party members that hed be faithful to conservative principles.

However, there has been some dissension within the party as to what qualifies as conservative principles.

As the ranks of Republican elected officials have grown quickly, some intra-party rifts have developed. Several Republicans want to push the party to the right. Meanwhile, others like Secretary of State Michael Adams believe the party needs to steer clear of focusing on some social issues, like trans rights, that make some Kentuckians feel excluded.

Theres also the question of former president Donald Trump, who is the current front-runner for the GOP presidential nomination. Brown, in an exit interview with Louisville television station Wave3, indicated the party ought to move on from Trump and nominate someone else for president in 2024.

I think President Trump did some good things in his administration and I think its time to move on. I think the sooner the party moves on from him, the sooner it will succeed, Brown said.

In Browns eight years as chair, the party grew tremendously in the Kentucky House and Senate. It also overtook the long-dominant Democratic party in terms of voter registration. However, it lost gubernatorial bids in 2019 and 2023 to Gov. Andy Beshear.

Benvenuti, in his email, emphasized the importance of both unity and diversity of opinion among the growing GOP to keep making gains.

He wrote that the GOP has much more work to be done.

As a Party, we must continue to unite, to rely upon the wisdom of our conservative forefathers, and to further tap into the passion of Kentuckians who have already entrusted to us the responsibility of leadership, Benvenuti wrote.

As a Party we must continue to seek and develop opportunities to further convince the majority of Kentuckians to desire a government, and governmental policies, that center on Republican principles. As has been demonstrated, it is when we persuade the citizens of Kentucky to trust in us, and to follow our thoughtful lead, that our God-given constitutional freedoms are most deeply rooted, and our Commonwealth is at its best.

The chair term would end in 2025, according to a spokesperson for the Republican Party of Kentucky.

According to a spokesperson for the Kentucky Democratic Party, current chair Colmon Elridge has no plans on going anywhere in the near future.

A full state Democratic party reorganization was set to take place early this year but was pushed back due to the governors race. Timing on the full reorganization will be decided in the coming weeks.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6)  A bus crash that killed over a dozen people is enough reason for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to build a new route and condemn the so-called killer curve where a number of previous accidents happened, the provincial government of Antique said on Wednesday.

Speaking to CNN Philippines Balitaan, Antique Governor Rhodora Cadiao said the road in Barangay Fabrica in Hamtic, Antique is accident-prone.

READ: Death toll in Antique bus crash climbs to 17

She said the agency only deployed concrete barriers and signages every time the province records another accident, but she added band aid solutions are not enough.

I appeal to the DPWH to condemn that road and make another route, Cadiao said.

On Tuesday, a passenger bus that fell off a cliff in Hamtic killed 17 people and injured others.

Transportation authorities said an investigation will be launched. The bus operator as well as the Antique provincial government vowed to provide financial assistance to the passengers and their families.
Demand for former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheneys new book, Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning, actually overwhelmed Amazon, which had already sold every available hardback copy by 5 a.m. C.S.T. on Tuesday, its first day on the market. Lets hope that means that at least a few Trumplicans are ready to hear what she has to say.

They know, of course, that theyre not going to like it, and that they no longer like Dick Cheneys daughter, who with her pedigree and ability could have had an unlimited future in the former GOP if only she had been willing to ignore reality, conscience and the rule of law.

Like Cassandra, the mythological prophet whose dire predictions were accurate but unattended, Cheney saw well before Jan. 6 that Trump had no intention of leaving office just because hed lost the election. She saw the potential for serious violence on that day, too, and hired private security.

But the cowgirl Cassandra found that no one wanted to hear her warnings, either, and everyone who could read a poll knew shed lose the job that so many of her former colleagues are now quitting in frustration.

In the end, Cheney didnt have what it takes to hold onto her own office, by which I mean that she wouldnt abandon all principle to stay on the sunny side of the rageaholic that one congressman who was willing to part ways with his self-respect calls the orange Jesus on page 85.

You want to know who? Buy the book. Or if you dont care who said it but do care that were in serious danger of losing our democracy, buy it for the seditionist in your life, as a Christmas present to the country.

I was first through the door when the Barnes & Noble on the Plaza opened on Tuesday, and turned the last page just before midnight. On page 366 of her 368-page book, she says, We have also now learned that most Republicans currently in Congress will do what Donald Trump asks, no matter what it is. We cannot rely on them to check his power. A Senate of Josh Hawleys certainly wont stop Trump.

Unfortunately, they wont, which is why she is right to be riding through the night, yelling that if orange Jesus is reelected, hell never leave office again. Hes not hiding that fact, either, but on the contrary is advertising it in non-stop pronouncements promising to get revenge, unravel institutions and prosecute dissenters that live like vermin within the confines of our country.

For me, the main surprise of Cheneys book was how crucial the moral malleability of now House Speaker Mike Johnson turned out to be.

When Cheney finished and turned in the book in September, she had no way of knowing hed wind up with the job.

But there he is in its pages, seriously misleading our members to help overturn the election, and then when challenged, cheerfully admitting that he is in the wrong. We just need to do this one last thing for Trump, he keeps saying.

MSNBCs Nicolle Wallace asked Cheney in an interview if she thinks Johnson is more dangerous in that job than Kevin McCarthy, whose M.O. is best documented in the chapter called, It Turned Out that Kevin Was Lying. In answer, Cheney said this about McCarthys replacement: Hes smarter.

Even though she also told Wallace that the way we defeat this assault on the U.S. Constitution is through the truth, she also knows very well that we not only are sleepwalking into dictatorship, but have no interest in a wake-up call.

Trump supporters dont want to know that his election fraud claims never had any basis in fact, or that he seriously considered trying to get the military to help him hold onto power anyway. They do not want to be reminded of Officer Michael Fanone hearing the mob chant, Get his gun! Kill him with his own gun! as he was electrocuted again and again and again with a Taser.

They dont want to be led through Trumps premeditated 7-part plan to overthrow an election he knew he had lost.

Many of her now former constituents, she writes, revealed in sometimes angry conversations with her that they were unaware of the violence on Jan. 6. They believed the day to have been almost entirely peaceful. They read The Epoch Times, a news website that presents extremely slanted reporting in the guise of a straightforward media outlet.  They watched almost exclusively Fox News or Newsmax or OAN. As a result, they were completely unaware of what had actually happened.

She knows that it can be tough to learn that youve been fooled, tricked by those you trusted. That you let yourself be deceived. The natural reaction is denial, and a refusal to listen to anything to the contrary.

But shes going to tell them anyway, and so am I. Because if Donald Trump returns to office and starts doing exactly what he says hes going to do, which is to ignore and then become the rule of law, the thrill of owning the libs will not have been worth it.

The closest thing to a laugh line in Cheneys book is when the White House calls, just as shes trying to head off a coup, to tell her shes disinvited to the congressional White House Christmas party.

You might also cluck darkly over the absurdity of her male colleagues telling her how hurtful they find her whole attitude. Its like youre playing in the biggest game of your life, Rep. Mike Kelly of Pennsylvania told her, and you look up and see your girlfriend sitting on the opponents side!

In her willingness to throw herself in between our democracy and the narcissist that ate her party, Liz Cheney is sitting on Americas side, and the least we can do is read her book. Let no one say that they werent warned.
Former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) on Tuesday discussed the potential criminal liability of election-denying Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) for the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by supporters of then-President Donald Trump.

I think that theres no question that Jim Jordan has something to hide, probably a lot to hide, Cheney  who has dropped severalbombshellrevelations in her new bestselling book, Oath and Honor  suggested to MSNBCs Nicolle Wallace.

If you go back and look at the phone records, as well as what hes said himself about his discussions and his conversations with Donald Trump on the 6th, the very significant role he played in the lead-up to that, [Jordan] was clearly one of the masterminds in terms of helping to facilitate Donald Trumps efforts to overturn the [2020] election and of course refused to comply with the select committee subpoena, noted the ex-lawmaker, referring to a House panel order for Jordan to testify in connection with the 2021 attack.

Jordan, who chairs the House Judiciary Committee, is likely doing everything he can to help Donald Trump, to do Donald Trumps bidding, Cheney continued. And I think that he has so many questions of his own to answer that people just need to go back and look at the record.

He is very clearly at the heart of what was an attempt to seize power and overturn an election, she added.

Wallace asked Cheney if Jordan, who in October failed in his bid to replace Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) as House speaker after his ouster, had any criminal exposure to the insurrection.

I think he has a lot of questions to answer, Cheney replied.

Related...
Liz Truss planned to officially designate China as a 'threat' to the UK

Liz Truss has said there has been far too much appeasement of China in an apparent swipe at the appointment of Lord Cameron as Foreign Secretary.

The former prime minister said the UKs approach to Beijing was being driven by short-termist business interests rather than national security.

She added that ministers were kidding ourselves if they believed that President Xi Jinping had a benign attitude towards liberal Western democracies.

If we keep doing deals with China, if we keep exporting more to China and getting more Chinese investment into the UK, that is ultimately leverage that can be used against us, she told students in Oxford.

And President Xi does not want a world where freedom and democracy prevail.

Ms Truss made the remarks, first reported by the Politico website, at a gathering of the Oxford University Conservative Association on Nov 24.

Lord Cameron, who as prime minister heralded a golden era in UK-China relations, was appointed as Foreign Secretary 10 days earlier.

He oversaw a period of closer ties with Beijing that his successors in Downing Street have tried to unpick over growing national security concerns.

A systemic challenge rather than a threat

Boris Johnson banned mobile phone firm Huawei from providing 5G infrastructure and said all its technology must be stripped from the network by 2027.

Rishi Sunak meanwhile toughened up security measures on removing Chinese made surveillance equipment like security cameras from sensitive sites.

But he has also been accused of taking a softer line than Ms Truss, who as prime minister planned to officially designate Beijing as a threat to the UK.

He instead labelled the country a systemic challenge and has said Britain must work with it on globally significant issues like climate change.

Last week, Mr Sunak defended Lord Camerons record and said that he recognised that China today is not the China that he dealt with over a decade ago.

Speaking during a panel discussion at the Global Investment Summit, he added: It has changed, its right that our strategy evolves to take account of that.

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.
An 11-year-old boy killed in a fire Tuesday morning in Clinton County was a student at a local middle school.

A spokesperson for Xenia Community Schools confirmed with News Center 7 that Kevin Jenkins Jr. was a sixth-grade student at Warner Middle School.

>> Previous Coverage: Woman, child, killed in Clinton County fire, family says

News Center 7 previously reported the State Fire Marshal was called to the scene of a house fire on South High Street near Martinsville just after 10 a.m. to assist fire officials, according to our news partners at WCPO in Cincinnati.

Family members say Linda Bartlett, 79, was killed in the fire alongside Jenkins, her great-grandson.

Three cats and a dog also died in the house fire.

A lot of smoke came from Bartletts bedroom on the first floor, the family told WCPO.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
An Indiana County woman was sentenced to six years in state prison for voluntary manslaughter and fentanyl-related charges.

According to Indiana County District Attorney Robert Manzi, Indiana Borough police were dispatched to a report of a drug overdose on Oct. 18, 2022.

Officers performed life-saving measures on the victim, but she died from the overdose.

The county coroner and Indiana Borough police investigated the scene and began witness interviews. It was determined that Heidi Millar, 40, delivered fentanyl to the victim immediately before her death.

These matters are very difficult for investigators for a number of reasons. Typically, there are no eye eyewitnesses willing to make statements to law enforcement. Many times, our only evidence comes from cell phones said Manzi. I applaud the efforts of the Indiana Borough Police and Indiana County Coroner Jerry Overman who diligently worked this investigation. We are able to hold a drug dealer accountable for her actions and put her in state prison. I hope that other drugs dealers are getting the message that we will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute drug delivery in our county.

Millar pleaded guilty to a first degree felony charge of voluntary manslaughter and an ungraded felony charge of possession of a controlled substance, fentanyl. She was sentenced to serve a minimum of three years and a maximum of six years in prison.

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Authorities in Southern California have expanded their investigation into the slayings of three homeless men to areas outside Los Angeles, the citys police chief said Tuesday.

The department is also working across the United States, working with our federal partners, the Joint Regional Intelligence Center, to identify this gunmans actions, Chief Michel Moore said, according to NBC Los Angeles.

The suspect, Jerrid Joseph Powell, 33, was arrested Thursday in connection with an unrelated slaying last week of a county employee. Police said Powell fatally shot Nicholas Simbolon at his home in San Dimas, a city east of Los Angeles, during a Nov. 28 home robbery, police said.

An image released by police shows a person suspected in the killings of three homeless people in Los Angeles. (LAPD)

Moore said Saturday that police connected Powells car, seen on security video at the home robbery, with the car driven in the slayings of the three homeless people.

A gun discovered in the suspects vehicle also matched the weapon used in the shootings of the homeless men, police said.

Police had been searching for the person responsible for those slayings last week before they connected Powell to the homicides.

The killings started early Nov. 26, when Jose Bolanos, 37, was fatally shot as he slept on a couch in a rear alley, police have said.

The next morning, Mark Diggs, 62, was shot as he leaned against a wall.

The man killed in his garage, Simbolon, a Los Angeles County employee, was fatally shot Tuesday at his home in San Dimas.

Then, on Wednesday, a 52-year-old man who had been sleeping on the sidewalk was fatally shot near an intersection, police said. NBC Los Angeles identified him as Shawn Alvarez.

The four slayings raised questions about whether there were other attacks the suspect might be responsible for, Moore said, according to the station.

Were unclear whether or not he has any prior violence that may have been unsolved or undetected to this point, Moore said.

On Monday, the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office formally charged Powell with four counts of murder, one count of residential robbery and one count of being a felon with a firearm, District Attorney George Gascon said in a statement.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
A week after a suspected serial killer went on a murderous rampage in Los Angeles, fatally shooting four men in a span of just four days, authorities are examining other unsolved slayings for fear the attacks werent the only ones.

Jerrid Joseph Powell, 33, was charged Monday with murder in the shootings of three homeless men as they slept or sat outside, and the murder of an LA County employee, who was found shot to death inside his garage in San Dimas.

Los Angeles Police Chief Michel Moore told the Board of Commissioners on Tuesday that the devastating amount of violence allegedly committed by Powell during such a short period of time raised questions about whether or not the shootings were the only attacks, NBC Los Angeles reported.

Were unclear whether or not he has any prior violence that may have been unsolved or undetected to this point, Chief Moore said.

The shootings happened on consecutive days between 26 November and 29 November. Detectives are now looking into other unsolved murders in case there is evidence that Mr Powell could be responsible, Mr Moore added.

Jerrid Joseph Powell appears at an arraignment at Los Angeles superior court on Monday (AP)

The department is also working across the United States, working with our federal partners, the Joint Regional Intelligence Center, to identify this gunmans actions, he said.

Mr Powell was arrested last week as a suspect in a deadly shooting of Nicholas Simbolon, 42, during a botched robbery at a San Dimas home, just east of Los Angeles.

Mr Powell, a Los Angeles resident, was then identified as a suspect in the killings of the three homeless men when his licence plate on his BMW was detected by the automated license plate scanning system operated by the Beverly Hills Police Department. The plate had been also been identified in the San Dimas murder.

A firearm found in his car was linked to all four shootings, authorities said.

The motive for the killings of the homeless victims was not known, Chief Moore said during a weekend press conference announcing the arrest.

Powell was identified as a suspect in the killings of the three homeless men when his license plate on his BMW was detected by the automated license plate scanning system - and linked to the fourth murder in San Dimas (LAPD)

Jose Bolanos, 37, was found dead with a gunshot wound around 3am on 26 November, in an alley in South Los Angeles, police said. The following day, Mark Diggs, 62, was shot and killed while pushing a shopping cart around 5am near downtown, according to officials.

The third shooting occurred around 2.30am on 29 November in the Lincoln Heights area, where the body of a 52-year-old man was found. Police did not immediately identify him pending notification of family.

Meanwhile, on 28 November, 42-year-old Simbolon had been shot dead in the garage of his home in San Dimas. Authorities obtained surveillance images of a suspect vehicle, and the following night a license plate reader in Beverly Hills alerted police who made a traffic stop, resulting in Mr Powells arrest.

On Monday, Mr Powell was charged with four counts of murder and one count of residential robbery and one count of being a felon with a firearm, the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office said in a statement. He also faces special circumstances of committing multiple murders, murder in the course of a robbery, as well as personal use of a firearm, the statement said.

Mr Powell did not enter a plea and his arraignment was continued to 8 January. If convicted on all charges, Powell faces life in prison without the possibility of parole.

As with each client, our office will pursue a vigorous defense on behalf of Mr. Powell and hold the prosecution to its burden of proof. According to the tenets of our criminal legal system, Mr. Powell remains presumed innocent until proven otherwise, the public defenders office said in a statement.

This photo released by the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department shows suspect Jerrid Joseph Powell (AP)

Los Angeles County is the nations most populous, with about 10 million people, and was home to more than one in five of the nations homeless people, according to a 2022 federal tally. As of January, the last official count, more than 75,000 people were homeless across the county on any given night.

Advocates for homeless people say those living on the streets are much more likely to be the victims of violence than the perpetrators, The Associated Press reported.

Five homeless people were shot in Las Vegas on Friday, one of them fatally, and police were searching for a lone suspect, authorities said. Las Vegas police said in a news release Monday evening that they were aware of the shootings in Los Angeles and ruled out any correlation.

In Orange County, California, a man was charged with killing four homeless men in a series of stabbings from late 2011 to early 2012. Itzcoatl Ocampo, a former Marine, was charged with four counts of murder with special allegations of multiple murders, lying in wait and use of a deadly weapon in the killings. Ocampo died awaiting trial after reportedly eating cleanser he had collected slowly while in custody.
NEW ORLEANS (WGNO)  Each year, theres a massive spike in porch pirating during the holiday months.

The New Orleans Police Department released home surveillance footage showing a man stealing a package just moments after a UPS delivery van drove off.

In the video posted to YouTube, a dark-colored pickup truck is seen pulling into the same spot the courier had parked in before a man jumps out and runs across the street, snatching the package right off someones doorstep.

Holiday festivities kick off with Christmas Parade in West Monroe

During the holiday months, theres an increase in packages that are out for delivery this increase in packages that are out for delivery. It creates opportunities for thieves to victimize us, said postal inspector William Kuhn.

With so many deals and deliveries, package thieves are trying to cash in. What can you do to ensure your packages get to you and your loved ones?

The best ways to protect your packages are picking up your mail promptly after delivery. Its not a good idea to leave your mail or packages out on your porch or in your mailbox overnight. The other thing is if you know youre going to be out of town and youre not going to be able to check your mail, fill out a hold mail request. That will keep the mail from piling up in your mailbox or on your porch which would create an opportunity for it to be stolen, said Kuhn.

According to Security.org, nearly half of all Americans have had a package stolen at some point, including 44 million people in the past three months alone.

Kuhn says another helpful tool in protecting your packages is opting for delivery updates.

This is a service they provide. it provides you with a daily email notification of your incoming mail and packages for that day or within a day or two, said Kuhn.

If your package was successfully delivered and then stolen from your porch, you have a couple of options. You can file a police report or a mail theft complaint.

You can also contact your credit card company. Some will offer protection for members whose purchases end up getting stolen. Kuhn says the faster its reported, the faster it will be investigated.

Stay updated with the latest news, weather, and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play store and subscribing to the WGNO newsletter.

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6)  The Philippine Consulate in Guangzhou is working to send home the cremated remains of two Filipino nationals executed in China for drug trafficking.

"It hopes to bring their cremains by end of week," Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesperson Teresita Daza said on Wednesday.

The Filipinos were executed on Nov. 24, 10 years after their arrest, the DFA disclosed on Dec. 2.

The agency said it provided all possible assistance to the Filipinos from the time they were arrested up to their appeal before the High Court of the lower court's judgment of conviction in 2018.

The Philippine government exhausted all measures available to appeal to China to commute their sentences to life imprisonment on humanitarian grounds, the DFA said.

An analyst previously said China might have disregarded the appeal for the two Filipinos due to the Philippines' tougher stand on the maritime dispute in the West Philippine Sea.

But the East Asian giant said it deals with all criminals fairly and "in strict accordance with the law," adding it prudently applies the death penalty for those who have committed "extremely serious crimes."
Jeannine Santiago and her husband, Allen Santiago, and their three kids, Jaynie, Erick, and Adrianna (front), who live in North Port.

Family stability was everything to Jeannine and Allen Santiago.

Both had come from broken homes: Allens childhood in New York was one without a father while Jeannine had been bounced through Floridas foster care system after her dad died when she was 6.

They bonded right away after meeting in Miami. They studied together for their GEDs and certifications as medical assistants. Building a family through their twenties, they were determined to give their children  and each other  the support and foundation neither of them had.

Allen threw himself into the role of provider, working jobs in security while Jeannine  who was wary of trusting strangers because of her past  cared for the kids full time in their home.

Wanting a clean break from South Florida, about eight years ago the couple moved with their two toddlers to the Orlando area.

By 2019 they had a third child and were renting a three-bedroom house for $1,200 a month.

The budget was tight, but life was good and their lives stable, something theyd always wanted. They took road trips to Florida beaches and the mountains of Georgia.

After the pandemic hit and lockdowns ensued, Allen lost his job in security for a time. But the family stayed atop their bills through the help of unemployment, federal pandemic relief and odd jobs that Allen picked up as the economy re-opened.

Then early last year, the bottom fell out. Their landlord decided not to renew their lease, opting to rehab the house instead.

Stuck in a statewide housing crisis, the couple scrambled for a place to live.

Allens uncle in North Port let them stay in a room of his house.

The five of them crowded into one bedroom, where Jeannine and Allen carved out corners of space for air mattresses where the two oldest could do their homework.

No matter what they were going through, Jeannine told them, the kids only concern should be their studies.

Everything else, thats on Mommy and Daddy, she said, trying to soothe their worries.

Co-parenting, Jeannine and Allen helped the kids with their schoolwork and played games in the room. Hiding their own stress, they carved out fun time for the kids at area parks  where Allen would meet them on his lunch breaks. As a team, he and Jeannine were splitting the work to find an apartment as fast as they could.

I was busting my butt to get us out of there, said Allen, who took on warehouse and detailing jobs, pained at not being able to provide a home for his family.

Meanwhile, Jeannine maintained stacks of paperwork on housing prospects and called dozens of rentals looking for something they could afford. But either wait lists were closed or income and deposit requirements were out of reach.

The instability was Jeannines worst nightmare.

I didnt want my kids in that position, she said. I didnt want them to feel how I felt when I was a child.

She would talk aloud to her father, calling on him for strength.

Dad, I need you to show me a path.

On the drive to the park, the family often passed a new complex being built in North Port. Jeannine prayed each time, trying to manifest a solution to their plight.

Lord, please let us have a home again, shed ask.

When she pulled into its new leasing office, their names were placed on a waiting list of applicants. They were number 350 on the list.

Babe, we have to be prepared, Allen told Jeannine, worried about raising her hopes.

When Hurricane Ian hit, their situation got tougher. They rode out the storm in the uncles house, at one point Allen and their two teens holding a window in place. Afterward, driving through standing water, their good car got flooded, with the insurance refusing to cover damage.

That left them with their beater, a 2003 Nissan.

Then last December, Jeannine got a call from the new apartment complex. Their name had come up. They needed to come in and fill out some forms. Jeannine couldnt wait to call Allen.

I got goose-bumps listening to her, Allen recalled. Filling out the application, Allen knew they had enough for the deposit. But given their car troubles and other bills, the family would have trouble getting in the door.

We were living paycheck to paycheck, he said.

In all her phone calls for solutions, Jeannine had already been in touch with Family Promise of South Sarasota County. Now that the couple had found a place, Family Promise could help.

The nonprofit tapped Season of Sharing on their behalf to cover the first months rent, almost $1,300. With its own funds, Family Promise covered another month to be sure the family was firmly on its feet.

You Can Help: Donate to Season of Sharing

In January, they moved into their three-bedroom apartment.

This past year, the couple has switched roles. Now Allen does the caregiving for their youngest while Jeannine works in retail  a job that is a closer commute in their Nissan beater.

With daycare costs too high and Jeannine still leery of strangers taking care of their kids, Allen will fill that job until the youngest is ready for school next year.

The budget is still tight, but this holiday season they have a place of their own  already decorating it with a silver tree in the corner of the living room.

To both parents, the past two years brought them closer as a family, they say as their oldest two kids, now teens, come through the door from school  one showing off her art project to Allen as her brother brings his trombone to his room. Both kids continue to make straight As, as they did through the entire housing ordeal.

The parents are grateful to everyone who helped them provide their family with stability again.

For Jeannine, her heart melts hearing their youngest daughter give her verdict of their new living situation.

Every day she says, I love our home.

How to help

Season of Sharing was created 22 years ago as a partnership between the Herald-Tribune and the Community Foundation of Sarasota County to get emergency funds to individuals and families on the brink of homelessness in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties. There are no administrative fees and no red tape  every dollar donated goes to families in need to help with rental assistance, utility bills, child care and other expenses.

You can donate to Season of Sharing by going to cfsarasota.org or calling 941-556-2399. You can also mail a check to Season of Sharing, Community Foundation of Sarasota County, 2635 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34237.

This story comes from a partnership between the Sarasota Herald-Tribune and the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. Saundra Amrhein covers the Season of Sharing campaign, along with issues surrounding housing, utilities, child care and transportation in the area. She can be reached at samrhein@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: North Port family finds stability with help from Season of Sharing
A man from Luhansk was sentenced to 12 years in prison for voluntarily fighting in the ranks of Russian proxy forces in Luhansk Oblast, the Prosecutor General's Office reported on Dec. 6.

Russia has occupied part of Luhansk Oblast since 2014, and has captured most of the region since the start of the full-scale invasion. While some residents of occupied territories have willingly collaborated with Russia, Moscow has also reportedly coerced locals into their ranks.

The man, who served as a firefighter commander in Russian-occupied Luhansk Oblast between 2018 and 2022, signed a contract with Russian proxy forces in the region in December 2022, the prosecutors said.

He reportedly fought at the front in Luhansk Oblast since March 2023.

Ukrainian forces detained the collaborator in late May near the village of Bilohorivka, one of the few settlements in Luhansk Oblast still held by Ukraine, according to the prosecutors.

Apart from the prison sentence, the penalty for the man issued by the court included confiscation of property and a ban on holding positions in judicial or law enforcement bodies.

Two other militants from occupied Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts fighting under Russia were sentenced to 12 years in prison last week.

Im afraid well never find them: Russia holds thousands of Ukrainian civilians hostage In the early days of the full-scale invasion as Russian troops were occupying large swaths of territory outside of Kyiv, one local village resident was relieved to see what he thought were Ukrainian troops. The resident, Ivan Drozd, shouted the common Ukrainian salute Slava Ukraini! (Glory to Uk The Kyiv IndependentAlexander Khrebet

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
LUZERNE BOROUGH, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  The Luzerne Merchants Association announced Tuesday it will hold its Second Annual Hometown Christmas Stocking Stuffer event in December.

The town of Luzerne has dropped off stocking stuffers at every local business and children are invited to bring their stockings to the businesses in town and receive a stocking stuffer at each of the participating businesses.

The event will be held Saturday, December 16 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Main Street in Luzerne.

CODE BLUE issued for Thursday in Wilkes-Barre

The list of participating businesses can be seen below or picked up at the first participating location:

Sugarkraze Candy Shoppe and Bakery, 229 Chapel Street, Luzerne; at the start of the event.

Courtesy: Luzerne Borough

Children can meet Santa at The Main Bean, 161 Main Street, Luzerne where free hot chocolate will be provided and free face painting will be provided by Joanna Martin.

Mr. Scrooge and The Grinch will also be roaming Main Street, so kids keep your eyes open.

The Luzerne Merchants Association developed this event to encourage families to visit small businesses and shop local this holiday season.

This event will be held rain or shine and entry to and participation in this event is free and open to the public.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
(Bloomberg) -- Venezuelas government ordered the arrest of three top aides to opposition leader Maria Corina Machado for their alleged involvement in a plot to sabotage a referendum on the disputed Essequibo region in Guyana.

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Public Prosecutor Tarek William Saab said Wednesday that his office had charged Claudia Macero, Pedro Urruchurtu and Roberto Abdul with treason, conspiracy and money laundering. The three belong to Machados political team, acting as advisers and press liaisons. Machados press officer didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

The move comes as President Nicolas Maduro escalates tensions with Guyana. Hes ordering foreign oil companies in Essequibo to withdraw, asserting his right to do so after Venezuelan voters backed plans to regain control of the territory in a referendum Sunday.

The confrontation with Guyana is also part of Maduros efforts to whip up domestic support ahead of Venezuelas presidential election next year, according to analysts including Nicholas Watson of Teneo Holdings. By that measure, last weekends referendum fell short. Polling places appeared empty, though the government officially said almost half the voting population had participated.

Venezuela recently said it opened a path for barred opposition leaders to participate in next years presidential elections. Machado, who is currently banned from running and but won this years opposition primaries, said earlier Wednesday that she had not been notified to contest her disqualification.

As part of the investigation, Saab also issued arrest warrants against several exiled opposition leaders, including Juan Guaido, Julio Borges, Leopoldo Lopez, and others.

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Until customers can cross the closed Central Avenue Bridge over the Kansas River, the Kansas City, Kansas, bar Chicagos remains landlocked, a co-owner said.

That major artery to the heart of KCK has been closed since early 2021 for fear of failure, cutting off businesses in the area from additional customers, other parts of the region and, in turn, tax revenue for Wyandotte County, business owners say.

Since February 2021, I cannot count how many customers and members of the community have asked about the Central Avenue Bridge and when it will be reopened, said Laura Summa, who owns Chicagos with her husband at Central Avenue and North 6th Street.

Summa and other business owners last week urged the Board of Commissioners of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, to find a way to reopen the bridge, which connects Central Avenue to James Street and the West Bottoms. Some business owners said they have lost income because of the bridge closure.

After hearing from business owners, the countys governing body voted unanimously to work to reopen the Central Avenue Bridge with necessary emergency repairs and to seek funding to redesign and rebuild a new, multi-use bridge. But its just a first step before the bridge can be reopened.

Tom Burroughs, At-Large District 2 commissioner, said prior language used in a community-wide master plan tied the hands of state and federal lawmakers from seeking funding for the project. With the vote Thursday, they can better advocate for funding for the bridge, which Burroughs hopes encourages economic development in eastern KCK.

Melissa Bynum, At-Large District 1 commissioner, said she supports finding ways to rebuild the bridge, but noted that it cant be done overnight. The bridge is currently failing, she said.

I just want to be straightforward with the community: This is not going to be a quick or simple process, she said.

Commissioner Andrew Davis, District 8, noted the project would be very expensive, estimating it to be millions of dollars.

There are 270 bridges in KCK, 17 of which are considered major bridges. The Central Avenue Bridge is one of them. As elected officials came up with their strategic planning for infrastructure, Bynum said, they realized the UG needs to increase its annual spending on bridges from $500,000 to $14 million  something she said feels almost impossible.

This gives you a notion of the scope of the infrastructure needs of our community, Bynum said.

With the Central Avenue Bridge and another recent ramp closure, businesses in the area at times have lost between 10% and 17% of business, amounting to $50,000 a month for some larger businesses, said Edgar Galicia, executive director of the Central Avenue Betterment Association. For small businesses, a survey showed, those figures were higher: 23% and 35%.

Mike Pearce, who with his brother owns Slaps BBQ on Central Avenue, said they want to be connected to downtown Kansas City, Missouri, which attracts many customers. He told the commissioners that while the interstates are better traveled, just an additional 10 customers coming across the local bridge a day could amount to $130,000 in revenue a year.

Thats just our business  how much is lost by not having that bridge open, Pearce said, adding thats if only 10 come, and Id venture to say that on a First Friday, we probably get 25, 35, 45 more people.

Its not just businesses: Resident Jim Schneweis said he feels isolated and described his neighborhood as a food and pharmacy desert. That means that, unlike businesses who need customers to come in, he has to leave to get necessary items.

If we had better infrastructure on our bridges, he said, that would help alleviate some of that problem.

Neighbors also framed it to Schneweis as a safety issue: Some people traveling on interstates 670 and 70 are wild drivers.

The Kansas Department of Transportation owns a portion of the bridge and is working to reconstruct it. But the eastern part that connects to James Street is owned by the UG.

State Rep. Pam Curtis, a Democrat whose district includes the bridge, said multiple bridge closures around Wyandotte County have highlighted just how vulnerable and important KCKs infrastructure is. KCK has more bridges than other communities of its size.

The vast majority of residents and businesses that I have heard from support a plan that repairs and replaces the Central Avenue Bridge, said Curtis, who is leading an effort to save the bridge.

At the UG meeting, Curtis read a letter from Bill Burns, the incoming District 2 commissioner who says repairing the bridge will be a priority. Burns called the bridge a catalyst for development and said suggestions to tear it down were nonsense.

The bridge for many years is part of the rich history of Wyandotte County, he said.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6)  The House Committee on Legislative Franchises has approved the resolution urging the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to suspend the operations of Sonshine Media Network Inc. (SMNI) for allegedly violating the terms and conditions of its franchise.

We voted on that yesterday, there was no objection, Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Ty Pimentel told CNN Philippines The Source on Wednesday.

House Resolution no. 1499 urges the NTC to suspend the operations of Swara Sug Media Corporation operating under the business name SMNI to cover its alleged franchise violations.

Pwersa ng Bayanihang Atleta (PBA) partylist Rep. Margarita Nograles, author of the resolution, said pending the recommendation of the legislative franchises panel, it is the NTCs duty to immediately stop the deliberate dissemination of false information that may generate cynicism and mistrust on matters involving public interest.

She cited a recent issue when SMNI host Jeffrey Celiz said Speaker Martin Romualdez spent 1.8 billion for his foreign trips. Celiz later admitted that his allegation was false after House Secretary General Reginald Velasco clarified that Romualdez only had a 4.3-million travel budget from January to October 2023.

It is clear that SMNI violated its responsibility to the public not to use its stations or facilities for the deliberate dissemination of false information or willful misrepresentation to the detriment of the public interest, Nograles said.

The lawmaker said during the hearing that this was not an attack on the freedom of the press, it was only way to defend the right of the people to have true information

SMNI was granted a legislative franchise under Republic Act 11422 in August 2019. This gave the TV network 25 years to operate.
A man in Britain who kept the body of his friend in a freezer for two years has been jailed. Damion Johnson, 53, told police he was overcome with grief at the death of his roommate John Wainwright, 71, in September 2018. A prosecutor in the case said Johnson had known Wainwright for 27 years and had moved into an apartment with him as his carer in 2015. After Wainwrights death, Johnson was not thinking rationally and was not ready to let go of Wainwright, the prosecutor said, and was unable to inform the authorities of the death as time went by. Wainwrights body was eventually discovered at a waste management business when the freezer was removed from the apartment in August 2020 after Johnson was arrested on unrelated matters in December 2019. Johnson was sentenced to two years for preventing a burial and given concurrent six-month sentences for three counts of fraud.

Read it at The Guardian

Read more at The Daily Beast.
PROVIDENCE  Joshua D. Pavao stashed four fully-automatic machine guns at a Coventry home prior to his capture in East Providence, a federal prosecutor said Wednesday in U.S. District Court, Providence.

Magistrate Judge Lincoln D. Almond ordered the 43-year-old held without bail after a lengthy proceeding that delved into the man's history in Rhode Island and Florida.

Pavao's appearance in federal court followed his arrest on Friday after a police pursuit through the streets of East Providence.

Pavao shot the rear window out of a vehicle in Riverside, drove away and then tried to evade police in a high-speed bid that ended with a crash on Pawtucket Avenue, according to East Providence police. Officers found thousands of rounds of ammunition at the crime scene.

Police discovered several fully-automatic machine guns in a duffle bag that had been stashed in a Coventry home frequented by Joshua Pavao. Several of the guns had barrels less than 16 inches, below the legal limit.

By Saturday night, Pavao faced a raft of state weapons charges encompassing more than 100 counts.

But police were still waiting for a warrant to search a red duffel bag that they had seized from the garage of a Coventry home where Pavao frequently stayed with a woman, according to the criminal complaint filed in federal court by Special Agent Gregory W. Toner of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

On Monday, with the warrant in hand, Coventry police, East Providence police and Toner opened the bag and found eight long guns, the ATF agent's complaint said.

Four of the guns were loaded with 30-round magazines and ready to fire, it said.

The barrels of four of the guns were too short, less than 16 inches in length, and illegal, the ATF agent said.

Four of the guns were modified illegally to provide an automatic capability, which means the shooter can pull a trigger to initiate a continuous burst of fire.

The guns seized in Coventry are in addition to pistols and a pellet shooting rifle that police found in East Providence.

Imagery from a home doorbell camera showed Pavao putting a bag into woods along Boyd Avenue, the ATF said.

On Monday, Providence District Court Judge Stephen M. Isherwood set bail at $100,000, requiring him to post 10% in cash or the full amount in property.

In federal court, it fell to Almond to decide whether the circumstances warranted holding Pavao without bail.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul F. Daly Jr. argued for detention.

Kevin J. Fitzgerald, representing Pavao, proposed that Almond release Pavao under an electronic monitoring requirement. He suggested that Pavao could stay at his home in Florida far away from East Providence.

At one point, Almond mentioned Pavao's apparent activity at the East Providence house, which he likened to stalking. The stalking, weapons possession and fleeing of police asserted by authorities "seems like dangerous behavior," he said.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Joshua Pavao held without bail after chase through East Providence
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo.  A man accused in two St. Louis County bank robberies over the past month is behind bars on felony charges.

Prosecutors have charged Tyrone Leslie, 38, with two counts of first-degree robbery in connection with the case. Leslie is linked to a bank robbery on Nov. 14 in south St. Louis County and one on Dec. 2 in west St. Louis County.

Southern Illinois deputies recover $250K worth of drugs after 115-mile pursuit

Investigators say Leslie targeted the U.S. bank in the 13000 block of Tesson Ferry during his first robbery, demanding a note and advising that he had a gun. The man took off with an undisclosed amount of cash in a red Dodge Durango.

Several weeks later, Leslie reportedly targeted the PNC Bank located in the 15000 block of Manchester Road. Similarly to the first reported robbery, Leslie presented a note to the teller insisting he had a gun, demanded money and took off from the bank with some cash in a red Dodge Durango.

Authorities issued a warrant for Leslies arrest on Tuesday. He is jailed in St. Louis County on a $300,000 cash-only bond.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6)  The House of Representatives on Tuesday cited Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) anchors Jeffrey Celiz and Lorraine Badoy in contempt for acting in a disrespectful manner and refusing to answer relevant questions during an inquiry.

During the continuation of the House Committee on Legislative Franchises' probe into the alleged fake news peddling of SMNI, Celiz refused to disclose the name of his source of his claims that Speaker Martin Romualdez spent 1.8 billion in his foreign travels for almost one year.

On Nov. 30, Celiz bared that his source was a Senate employee.

He later admitted that his allegation was false after House Secretary General Reginald Velasco clarified that Romualdez only had a 4.3-million travel budget from January to October 2023.

During the hearing, the SMNI anchor kept insisting he is bound by the Sotto Law, which protects journalists and other practitioners involved in news dissemination from being compelled to name their sources.

"I will refuse to answer, your Honor, not because I disrespect this committee, but I invoke my right guaranteed by the Constitution because I believe this committee cannot be above the law, especially the Constitution," Celiz said.

But Deputy Majority Leader David Suarez argued that Celiz can't use Sotto Law in his case as he already admitted that his statement was false.

"You are talking about the inter-parliamentary relationship between the House of Representatives and the Senate," Suarez said. "I don't think you see the gravity of the statements that you have issued between both houses in Congress."

Hours after Celiz was ordered detained, his co-anchor Lorraine Badoy was also cited in contempt for the same reason.

Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. said Badoy was giving confusing statements regarding SMNI program "Laban Kasama ng Bayan."

Badoy initially stated she was only a blocktimer, but later said she was a co-producer of the show, making her an SMNI employee.

She added that the SMNI program had three advertisers, but SMNI's legal officer Mark Tolentino said it had none.

The two were taken into custody, as ordered by the House panel, until the plenary approves the committee report on the inquiry.

The committee also adopted a resolution urging the National Telecommunications Commission to suspend the operations of Swara Sug Media Corporation operating under the business name SMNI to cover its alleged numerous franchise violations.
Man who lived at Virginia home that exploded is presumed dead, police say

ARLINGTON, Va.  The Virginia man whose house in suburban Washington, D.C., blew up had a history of making unsubstantiated complaints that he had been defrauded, and just days before the explosion he claimed on social media that his neighbors were spies.

James Yoo is presumed dead after the Arlington residence went up in a fireball as police officers tried to serve a search warrant, authorities said Tuesday.

Police were called to the North Burlington Street home Monday after Yoo allegedly shot a flare gun at the property, officials said.

He did not respond to requests to come outside, prompting officers to fire irritants into the residence, police said.

James Yoo. (via LinkedIn)

The home would later explode, killing the man inside, Arlington County Police Chief Andy Penn said.

"Based on the preliminary investigation of the incident, we believe the resident of the home, James Yoo, 56, of Arlington, is the involved suspect," Penn said.

"The suspect was inside the residence at the time of the explosion, and he is presumed, at this point, to be deceased. Human remains have been located at the scene."

The cause of the explosion is still unknown and under investigation.

Previous contact with law enforcement

Yoo was no stranger to federal authorities.

He previously communicated with the FBI via phone calls, online tips and letters over a number of years, said Dave Sundberg, the assistant director in charge of the FBIs Washington field office.

I would characterize these communications as primarily complaints about alleged frauds he believed were perpetrated against him, Sundberg said. The nature of those communications did not lead to the FBI opening any investigations.

Penn, the Arlington County police chief, said investigators also are aware of concerning social media posts allegedly made by the suspect.

In his social media writings, Yoo called himself an independent and posted ranting hashtags calling for defunding the FBI, the CIA and the National Security Agency.

In a LinkedIn post Friday, Yoo appeared to accuse his neighbors of being spies.

His LinkedIn and YouTube pages have been deleted.

Clothes and trash strewn outside

Neighbors on North Burlington Street described Yoo as a recluse who had trashed his front yard and tossed clothes out the window hours before Mondays explosion.

We had noticed some weird stuff. In the front lawn, trash was thrown everywhere, and clothes had been thrown out the second-story window, and he had never done that before, said Tracy Mitchell, 57, who lives across the street. The house was always locked down tight, with no-trespassing signs everywhere. So just seeing that debris outside was weird.

Neighbor Elizabeth Johnston also said the state of Yoo's property raised alarms.

Officials are investigating the circumstances surrounding a massive explosion that destroyed a duplex and shook a Virginia suburb of Washington, D.C. (AP Photo/Emily Saxon) (Emily Saxon / AP)

"Because his house is usually very neat and clean, always perfectly mowed, and not even a leaf on the ground in fall, and suddenly there was trash everywhere, clothes, things on his roof," Johnston said. "And it was just very unusual. And before we even got the chance to make a welfare check call, there were flares going up and the police were already there."

Before Monday's blast, the home stood out because of the aluminum foil covering windows and because its resident made no efforts to meet neighbors, Mitchell said.

No one did [meet him]. He was too creepy. He put foil over the windows, blocked everything and never came out of the house," she told NBC News, estimating the man had lived there for at least five years.

"Over the years he lived there, I might have seen him three or four times, and [he] always had a backpack," she said.

Home was part of a bitter divorce

The home was briefly on the market in 2021, real estate records showed.

After James and Stephanie Yoo divorced, local Realtor Daniel Boris said he was retained to sell the couple's two Northern Virginia properties, in Arlington and McLean.

But a "hostile" and "confrontational" James Yoo was still living in the Arlington home and unwilling to let anyone inside, forcing prospective buyers to bid sight unseen, Boris said.

"He was hostile to the whole thing. He was not down with any of that," Boris recalled Tuesday, noting that the couple's other property did sell.

The property did not sell after 161 days on the market and the sale was called off.

His ex-wife did not immediately return messages seeking comment Tuesday afternoon.

Shattered sense of safety and security

While the cause of the explosion is still under investigation, the blast appears to have permanently shaken some neighbors.

"Makes you feel unsafe. This is a pretty quiet neighborhood, usually," Kathleen Boyle said. "I, and we, actually, were fortunate the fire department is right there on the corner. So they came right away. But it does make you, like, what the heck is going on, makes you feel a little unsafe, because normally its a safe neighborhood."

Neighbor Davin Mitchell said he was grateful no one else appears to have been injured.

"Lifes precious. You never know," Mitchell said. "The people that live next door could not have made it out. And it could be a really bad day for them. But they made it out. So thats why I say life is precious. If they would have been in there, they would have never survived."

Tom Costello reported from Arlington and David K. Li from New York City.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Animals higher up the food chain could suffer as energy transfer declines due to rising temperatures (Getty)

A man who tracked down a Siberian tiger after it attacked and ran off with his pet dog was killed by the same tiger when he finally caught up with the wild animal.

The body of the man, who has not been identified, was found in a forest in the remote Khabarovsk territory in Russia with signs that he had been viciously mauled by an animal, according to the regional investigators.

The dog owner followed the tiger a long distance using its animal tracks as guidance until he allegedly came across the wild animal in the forest, the Amur Tiger Centre said.

The centre added that the tiger presumably would have regarded the man as a threat and, therefore, attacked him.

The mans body was found near the remains of his dog.

The wife of the man who was killed spoke through tears to local news outlet RenTV and said she pleaded with him not to go after the tiger but was unable to hold her husband back from going.

He was walking around out there in the evening, yes, looking. He found the spot where [the tiger] had gone, she said.

And in the morning, he got up as if in a trance, got ready, and left, [saying], Ill go look for the dog. Ill go and see where he ate it.

Unfortunately, the man never returned home to his family.

Siberian tigers are the largest species of tiger in the world (AFP via Getty Images)

"We express our sincere condolences to the relatives and friends of the deceased," a statement from the tiger centre said.

The regional police said the incident is being investigated, and the authorities are deciding whether to remove the tiger from the wild.

Local residents in the village of Obor said they live in fear of the wild tigers, especially after what happened to the man.

Only a few days before, another mans dog was reportedly snatched and killed by a tiger, RenTV said.

Residents told the outlet that during the winter, they are especially afraid to go out and are worried for their children, who have to get to school while the tigers are on the loose in the nearby forest.

Authorities from the Khabarovsk territory said, according to The Moscow Times, that almost 300 incidents of tigers wandering into populated areas have been reported in 2023, and residents have asked President Vladimir Putin to give them better protection from the tigers.

While the Siberian tigers do pose a threat to the population, they are an endangered species, with their population falling by 25 times over the past 100 years, according to the Russian Geographical Society.

Siberian tigers are the largest tigers in the world and can reach a weight of 300kg.
An Iowa man is suing after he says he was arrested for driving under the influence  even after passing sobriety tests.

Ryan P. Elgin filed the lawsuit against the City of Winterset and an officer with the Winterset Police Department.

McClatchy News reached out to the Winterset Police Department, which declined to provide a comment on the case.

On Oct. 15, 2022, Elgin was pulled over by a Winterset police officer. During the traffic stop, Elgin had a woman and child in the vehicle with him.

The officer didnt observe any traffic violations, according to the lawsuit, and had no justifiable reason to pull Elgin over.

But the officer said the vehicle had an improper rear lamp and was on the wrong side of the road, police said.

During the traffic stop, the officer said Elgins eyes were bloodshot, his face was flushed and he could smell alcohol from the vehicle, according to police. Elgin is accused of telling the officer he had two or three Busch Lights that evening.

Elgin agreed to a field sobriety test, which he carried out successfully, the lawsuit said. He passed a horizontal gaze nystagmus test, a walk and turn test, and a one leg stand test, according to the court document.

However, according to police, the officer who administered Elgins sobriety test said the man appeared to have impaired imbalance and admitted to the use of prescription drugs.

Elgin admitted to taking an antidepressant earlier in the day, which was prescribed, according to the lawsuit.

At this time, the officer conducted a breath test. The test indicated a blood alcohol content of .047, below the legal limit of .08, according to the lawsuit.

Elgin was detained and taken to the police department, at which time he agreed to take another breath test. This test came back with a blood alcohol content of .037, the lawsuit said.

The officer then requested a urine sample from Elgin to see if there were any drugs in his system. Elgin agreed and completed the drug screening, according to the lawsuit.

After Elgin was released from the police station, the officer reported the incident to the Department of Human Services and a child endangerment investigation was opened, according to police.

On Dec. 8, the results of the drug screening were returned and Elgin tested positive for Citalopram, which is consistent with Elgins antidepressant, the lawsuit said.

However, a warrant was issued for Elgins arrest. His license was also suspended, the lawsuit said.

When the officer called Elgin to inform him of the results and the charges of operating while intoxicated and child endangerment, Elgin laughed and said good luck, the report said.

On Dec. 16, Elgin turned himself in. On April 13, the charges were dismissed.

The officer and the city have not filed a response to the lawsuit as of Dec. 6.

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NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  A Virginia Beach man pleaded guilty to first-degree murder after he shot another man in the head and killed him, the Norfolk Commonwealths Attorneys office said.

Marco Hicks, 30, made the plea Monday in Norfolk Circuit Court for the Sept. 4, 2022 shooting of Michael Rivera-Rubert. Judge Joseph C. Lindsey accepted the plea, per a plea agreement. Under the agreement, Lindsey can sentence Hicks to an active sentence of up to 35 years in prison.

As part of the plea agreement, the Commonwealth agreed to dismiss a charge of using a firearm in the commission of a murder.

Hicks is scheduled for sentencing March 15, 2024.

Marco Hicks walked up and executed his friend for no apparent reason and then blamed his crime on someone else, said Norfolk Commonwealths Attorney Ramin Fatehi in a statement. Thanks to video camera footage from multiple businesses, the assistance of a Good Samaritan, and high-quality investigation by the Norfolk Police, our case was strong enough that Mr. Hicks chose to plead guilty to first-degree murder rather than face trial. I extend my condolences to Mr. Rivera-Ruberts family and my appreciation to the citizens and officers who did the hard work to help us hold Mr. Hicks accountable.

Previously: Man arrested, accused in fatal Norfolk shooting on N Military Hwy

On Sept. 3, 2023, Hicks, Rivera-Rubert and several friends went to a Norfolk nightclub, parking their vehicles in an overflow parking lot at a strip mall in the 800 block of North Military Hwy., according to the Commonwealths Attorneys office. By around 2 a.m. Sept. 4, the group had returned to the parking lot, with surveillance video showing them chatting, apparently uneventfully, for about 20 minutes, when Hicks went to his pickup, got a pistol, walked up to Rivera-Rubert and put it nearly to his head before shooting him once, killing him nearly instantly.

After the shooting, Hicks and others left the area in two vehicles as a person who heard the gunshot from inside one of the strip mall stores tried to help Rivera-Rubert. Norfolk Police arrived soon after and found Rivera-Rubert dead.

From the police investigation and video from the strip mall and other local businesses, it showed Hicks wearing the same jersey and clothing, and bearing a distinctive tattoo of a rifle inked vertically from the right side of his forehead down his cheek. Police arrested Hicks, who IDd himself in some of the video, but according to the Commonwealths Attorneys office, claimed falsely and contrary to video evidence that another person had killed Rivera-Rubert.

Senior Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Emily A. Woodley prosecuted Hicks case, and Norfolk Police investigators Peter Kolb and Kyle Austin led the investigation.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  A pedestrian was seriously injured when he was hit by a vehicle in Socorro on Tuesday evening, Dec. 5, Socorro Police said.

The crash happened at about 6 p.m. at the 10400 block of Alameda. The investigation showed that the driver of a pickup truck struck a 76-year-man, who was crossing the roadway without using a crosswalk.

The man was taken to a local hospital with multiple injuries. He is described as being in stable but serious condition.

The investigation continues.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
A man already serving 24 to 52 years for a Michigan murder was sentenced this week in Hamilton County for his role in a 2013 shooting in Norwood that killed a woman and seriously wounded her boyfriend.

Josiah Fousse, 30, was one of three people investigators connected to the robbery and shooting, which happened in November 2013 on a Norwood street. Twenty-year-old Porshia Brooks was killed and her boyfriend, Aron Martin, survived. Both were shot in the head.

Sometime afterward, Fousse apparently fled to Michigan, where in 2015, he was involved in the killing of Randall Byrd III near Muskegon. Byrd also had been connected to the Norwood shooting.

Fousse and another man were arrested and charged in Byrds killing that same year. Fousse ultimately pleaded guilty in Muskegon County to charges including murder, and records show he was sentenced in 2019 to the prison term.

Josiah Fousse

After Fousse was sentenced in Michigan, he was brought to Hamilton County to face charges in the shooting of Brooks and Martin. In September, nearly 10 years after the shooting, he pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and aggravated robbery.

On Tuesday, Hamilton County Common Pleas Judge Chris Wagner imposed an 18-year sentence that had been agreed upon as part of the plea, court records show. That prison term will run concurrent with his Michigan sentence.

Fousses attorney, Clyde Bennett II, said Fousse will not serve additional prison time for the Ohio conviction.

The sentence he received is very good for him and his family, Bennett said, adding: For that, his family and I are thankful.

The man who prosecutors say shot Brooks and Martin during the robbery, 30-year-old Jaleel Smith, pleaded guilty in 2016 to aggravated murder and is serving life without the possibility of parole.

Brooks and Martin were inside a parked car, when according to court documents, Smith, Fousse and Byrd approached the car. Smith forced Martin out of the passenger side, went through his pockets and then shot him. According to the documents, Smith then leaned into the car and shot Brooks, who died three days later.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Michigan prison inmate admitted role in 2013 killing of Porshia Brooks
(KRON)  A Bay Area child sex offender who served nearly three decades behind bars refused to attend his own parole hearing on Tuesday, prosecutors said.

Eric Umali is serving a 16 years-to-life sentence for attempting to murder a young girl in a Redwood City apartment complex on July 19, 1996. Umali and the 9-year-old girl were neighbors, and prosecutors described the vicious stabbing as inexplicable.

Umali, 54, was denied parole Tuesday morning for at least five more years by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitations Board of Parole Hearings. The board made its decision while Umali remained in his prison cell.

The Board found the prisoner remains an unreasonable risk of danger to the community if released and denied him a parole date, the San Mateo County District Attorneys Office wrote.

At the time of the Redwood City knife attack, Umali was a 26-year-old convicted child sex offender. He cut and stabbed the 9-year-old girl 100 times, according to reports.

The young victim incredibly survived and later testified at Umalis 1997 trial.

San Mateo County Superior Court Judge John Schwartz found the defendant guilty of attempted murder with premeditation, and felony battery on a child.

Umalis next parole hearing will be held in 2028.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
China's role highlighted at COP28 in global climate action

Xinhua) 08:19, December 06, 2023

DUBAI, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- As the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) unfolds in Dubai, China stands out as a proactive force in global climate governance, contributing both resolve and wisdom to addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change.

It has to be understood that many achievements have been made in China, said Fatih Birol, chief of the International Energy Agency (IEA).

With excellent progress in developing solar and wind power, electric vehicles and power batteries, China is a champion of the world in clean energy, said the IEA executive director at a side event held at the China Pavilion of the ongoing COP28 climate change conference.

Visitors pose for photos in front of China's pavilion at the Green Zone of the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, Dec. 3, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Dongzhen)

STRONG COMMITMENT

China will promote the establishment of a fair, reasonable, cooperative and win-win global climate governance system, said Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang in Dubai during a meeting with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

In recent years, China has actively yet prudently promoted the targets for carbon peak and carbon neutrality, said Ding.

China has committed to a "dual carbon" goal of reaching the peak of carbon emissions by 2030 and attaining carbon neutrality by 2060. The country has formulated a "1+N" policy framework to facilitate its implementation.

In addition to its commitment to domestic carbon reduction initiatives, China extends its support to developing countries, aiding them in their endeavors to effectively reduce emissions by sharing expertise, technology, and resources.

In his speech on Friday, Ding said that China has always kept its promise and made important contributions to global climate governance and vigorously promoted international cooperation on green development, energy revolution and climate change, and supported developing countries in enhancing their capacity to cope with climate change.

China has signed 43 South-South cooperation documents on climate response with 38 developing countries, trained about 2,000 officials and professional personnel specializing in climate response for more than 120 countries, and made notable contributions to building a fair and rational global climate governance system for win-win results.

This photo taken on April 3, 2023 shows some wind turbine generators of the 100-MW Zhanatas wind farm in Zhanatas, Kazakhstan. (Photo by Kalizhan Ospanov/Xinhua)

SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS

China has made significant strides in promoting environmental sustainability. In 2022, the country's emission intensity of carbon dioxide decreased by more than 51 percent from 2005, while the installed capacity of non-fossil energy surged to 50.9 percent.

In response to climate change, there has been a substantial reduction in coal consumption per unit of GDP and China's forest coverage and stock have both risen over the past 30 years.

China also stands as a global leader in the new energy vehicles (NEV) industry. Its production and sales of NEVs rank first in the world, accounting for more than half of the world's total with more than 18 million NEVs in use.

This photo taken on July 3, 2023 shows China's 20 millionth new energy vehicle (NEV) produced by GAC Aion New Energy Automobile Co., Ltd. in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province. (Xinhua/Deng Hua)

Major economies are the main emitters of greenhouse gases and any action they take toward transitioning to renewable energy could have significant impacts, said Jordi Sole, a Spanish climate change expert and professor at the University of Barcelona.

China's transition towards clean energy has achieved significant progress: The aggregate reduction in CO2 emissions from China's electric vehicle shift could be at least 1 billion tons during 2023-40, equivalent to Japan's 2020 emissions, according to Bloomberg.

China's achievement in developing renewable energy resources has been phenomenal and people outside of China perhaps don't realize the scale of the shift that is taking place, said Dominic Waughray, executive vice president of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development.

Guterres said on Friday that the United Nations positively evaluates China's efforts and important contributions to promoting peak carbon dioxide emissions and carbon neutrality.

Developed countries that have caused the major part of global warming should take on their due responsibilities for climate change, Erik Solheim, former UN under-secretary-general and former executive director of the UN Environment Programme, told Xinhua.

This aerial photo taken on Sept. 19, 2023 shows part of the Xinghuo water surface photovoltaic power station of Daqing Oilfield under PetroChina in Daqing, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (Xinhua/Wang Jianwei)

PRAGMATIC COOPERATION

As a major responsible developing country, China stands ready to work with all parties to build a clean and beautiful world.

In November 2023, China and the United States issued "The Sunnylands Statement on Enhancing Cooperation to Address the Climate Crisis," emphasizing their commitment to work together and with other countries in addressing the climate crisis.

In 2022, the BRICS High-level Meeting on Climate Change was hosted by China via video link, resulting in the adoption of the Joint Statement of BRICS High-level Meeting on Climate Change and a shared commitment to jointly driving policy research on low-carbon green growth, technology cooperation, and collaborative pilot projects.

In 2021, China launched the Belt and Road Green Development Partnership Initiative with 28 countries and held nearly 20 thematic activities in the field of environment and climate.

China also put forward the Qingdao Initiative for Belt and Road Green Energy Cooperation, set up regional energy cooperation platforms, and held the Second Belt and Road Energy Ministerial Conference, consolidating the global consensus on green development and transition.

China's proactive approach to climate change stems not only from its eagerness to achieve sustainable development but also from a profound sense of responsibility in fostering a community of a shared future for mankind.

Through engaging in open dialogue and fostering pragmatic cooperation, China has demonstrated to the world that it is at the forefront of tackling climate challenges.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6)  The Philippine National Police (PNP) has identified the names and group of the two persons of interest (POI) in the bombing during a Sunday mass at the Mindanao State University in Marawi City.

On Wednesday, the PNP released photos of POIs and identified them as Kadapi Mimbisa, alias Engineer, and his son Arsani Mimbisa, who goes by the alias Khatab.

The PNP said both are affiliated with the Dawlah Islamiyah Maute group with Lanao del Sur as their base. Kadapi is also identified as an improvised explosive device expert of the group.

Kadapi is facing kidnapping and serious illegal detention as well as illegal possession of explosive charges, while Arsani is facing a murder rap because of previous terrorism-related activities.

"One of the factors that was able to help the investigator identify these two POIs is because of the testimonies of some of the witnesses who personally saw them inside the gymnasium prior to the explosion. Nakita po talaga doon na suspicious yung ginawa nilang paggalaw [They were seen acting suspiciously]," she noted.

Fajardo also said one of the POIs was seen continuously talking over his cell phone. This prompted one of the church assistants to ask him to transfer seats since he was already distracting the mass.

Prior to the explosion, the other POI was also spotted hurriedly leaving the establishment, Fajardo added.

She said police have obtained and are currently enhancing CCTV footage from outside the school campus.

Aside from the two POIs already identified, Fajardo said they are also looking for two others who may have served as lookouts during the bomb attack.

At a briefing on Wednesday, PBGen Allan Nobleza, police regional director of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region said the government will give a reward to anyone who can provide information that will lead to the arrest of those seen to be behind the explosion.

He added they were working with Mindanao State University officials to establish a long-term security plan for the school.

RELATED: Lanao del Sur gov't working to restore students' confidence to return to MSU

Meanwhile, Senate president Juan Miguel Zubiri allayed worries, saying the country was in good hands following the incident.

Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro added that the PNP and Armed Forces of the Philippines were doing everything to ensure the public's safety and security.

"We are looking at all angles. Open pa yung case, let's wait for the investigation," he said.

[Translation: We are looking at all angles. The case is still open so let's wait for the investigation.]

AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner told CNN Philippines on Tuesday that a massive manhunt for perpetrators is underway.
CHESTER COUNTY, Tenn.  A man wanted for attempted murder involving law enforcement officers was captured Monday by U.S. Marshals in Chester County, Tennessee.

Jacob Johnson, 24, faces charges of three counts of attempted first-degree murder along with aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony, unlawful possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, reckless endangerment, and driving offenses.

The U.S. Marshals Service said it started on December 4 when the Chester County Sheriffs Office and the Henderson Police Department responded to reports of a reckless driver with a gun.

TN corrections officer fired, accused of smuggling contraband into jail complex

They spotted the vehicle driving in the area of Highway 100 and West Main Street. When the officers initiated their emergency equipment, the driver, identified as Johnson, drove off and fired shots at them.

Law enforcement pursued the vehicle until it crashed into a bridge guard rail on TN-200 near Rabbitt Ranch Road. The officers then saw Johnson running into a wooded area.

The U.S. Marshals said a deputy requested assistance from a one of their task force officers with an apprehension K-9. The officer and members of the Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force in Jackson, Tennessee began searching the area where Johnson was last seen.

Johnson surrendered a few minutes later. He was taken into custody without incident and transported into the Chester County Jail.

A deputy U.S. Marshal also found a loaded handgun in the woods.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WJW)  A man accused of shooting and killing a Warren woman was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Florida on Tuesday.

According to investigators, 19-year-old Noel Flores was wanted by Warren police for the shooting death of 26-year-old Ashante Kirksey.

Warren police say Kirksey was shot to death in her home in the 900 block of Francis Avenue SE on Nov. 11. Another person was also shot at the home, police say.

Man wanted in killings of Solon brothers captured

The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force learned last week that Flores left Ohio and was staying in Florida.

According to investigators, U.S. Marshals arrested Flores Tuesday afternoon at an apartment in the 10100 block of 12th Way N of St. Petersburg.

Woman killed in shark attack near resort

Authorities also confiscated a firearm which, according to U.S. Marshals, was the same caliber used in the homicide.

This is another example of the dedication our task force officers put into every investigation, said U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott. This fugitive attempted to evade the reach of the U.S. Marshals Service but was unsuccessful because we will never stop looking for them no matter how far they run.

Flores was taken to Pinellas County Jail before being extradited to Ohio.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
MANITOWOC  Manitowoc County Airport has landed a $144,000 grant.

In a Dec. 1 news release announcing the grant, U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wisconsin, said, "Our Wisconsin airports are vital to our economy and way of life."

The funding comes from the Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement Grants, which are funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Through the Airport Improvement Grants program, more than $38 million was given to Wisconsin airports this month.

Now, here's more government-related news from across Manitowoc County in your "Watchdog Wednesday report.

Read last week's 'Watchdog Wednesday': Manitowoc police officer earns 'rare' Valor Award, and more in the latest 'Watchdog Wednesday' report

Residents invited to discuss South 30th Street reconstruction project

City of Manitowoc is developing plans to reconstruct South 30th Street from south of the Dewey Street intersection to just north of the Viebahn Street intersection.

An informational meeting about the project is set for 4 p.m. Dec. 12 at Manitowoc City Hall.

The event will include a short presentation on the project, which is planned for the summer of 2026, and a discussion with attending citizens on the design concepts and other comments citizens wish to give.

Nomination papers for 2024 spring election available

Dec. 1 was first day for candidates of local elections to circulate nomination papers for the 2024 spring election. All nomination paperwork must be filed by 5 p.m. Jan. 2, 2024

More about local elections can be found at the MyVote Wisconsin website, myvote.wi.gov.

McKinley virtual school latest: McKinley Academy discussion continues: 'I can't see any reason why we would ever keep that K-8 virtual program.'

Two Rivers winter parking ban suspended, except for snow events

The ban on overnight parking in the city of Two Rivers during the winter season has been suspended until there is a snow event.

According to City Manager Greg Buckley at the Dec. 4 City Council meeting, out of the 105 days that the parking ban was in effect last year, it was only enforced 12 days because of snow.

"If it snows, there's still a parking ban," Buckley said. "Frankly, people have been very good about it (observing the parking ban during snow events)."

Have a story tip or public interest concern? Contact Alisa M. Schafer at aschafer@gannett.com. "Watchdog Wednesday" is a weekly series that aims to give you the news you need to stay on top of local government.

This article originally appeared on Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter: Manitowoc County Airport lands federal grant funding for improvements
This story has been updated with corrections to the spelling of state Treasurer Vivek Malek's name, the appointments that Gov. Parson has made while in office, and his time spent as Polk County Sheriff.

As 2023 comes to a close, Gov. Mike Parson is looking ahead to his final year in office.

It will be an election year, which may stymie progress on some issues in the legislature as lawmakers seeking office try to score political points.

I don't expect a lot of major things to happen, to be right honest about it, Parson said. I think the big thing for us next year is getting the budget through and trying to get the priorities done.

Missouri Governor Mike Parson reflects on his time in office and what he plans to do after he leaves office during an interview at his farm near Bolivar on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023.

Though he expects few sweeping changes in his final year, Parson is confident in the strong foundation built in Missouri during his tenure in office in terms of workforce development, infrastructure and the attraction of new businesses. He feels that foundation will lead the state to success in the coming years.

Right now, we've got a good foundation. We want to maintain what we've got, Parson said. I want to make sure that when I leave, I'm turning it over in good shape. When I leave the office, the next governors gonna be able to walk up and have a good foundation to build on.

Parson has not yet officially endorsed a candidate for governor, but he plans to get involved in supporting candidates sometime next summer.

Right now, my focus has got to be on this last legislative session. Ive got to do that, Parson said. We're gonna get involved in the political arena, probably in June or July.

During his time in office, he has chosen five people to serve in vacated statewide positions after the office holder was elected to another position.

Of the five people he has appointed, three are seeking statewide offices, including State Treasurer Vivek Malek and Attorney General Andrew Bailey, both hoping to be elected to their current offices, and Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, who is running for governor in 2024. Parson appointed former attorney general Eric Schmitt, who is now a U.S. Senator and former state treasurer Scott Fitzpatrick, who is now state auditor.

I asked those guys to come in, in not the most ideal situations, to help me, Parson said. I'm a loyal guy, and I think a great deal of those people who have done that. So it's a little unusual, because many times governors say, Hey, Im going to stay out of this. It's kind of difficult to stay out of it when you pick the guy.

Parsons biography offers insight into his early life

Missouri Governor Mike Parson reflects on his time in office and what he plans to do after he leaves office during an interview at his farm near Bolivar on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023.

As Parson reflects on his life leading up to his time in office, he recalls the various points when he was struck by the realization that there was no turning back, inspiring the title of his forthcoming biography.

Where the phrase 'no turning back' really came from is the day I became governor, when I was sworn in, Parson said. We were walking into the governor's office, and it was just more media than I think I've ever seen in my life. It was cameras, clicks, noise.

When they opened the doors and windows, and Im facing them for the first time, the author of the book said, What were you thinking at that point? I said, Well, there's no turning back. That was the moment that you had to go up there, take your oath, and face the press for the first time in that capacity.

No Turnin Back is a biography of Gov. Michael Parson written by Jim Jones, husband of the governors Deputy Chief of Staff Kelli Jones. Beneath the title is G57, referring to Parsons nickname earned as the states 57th governor. It will be released in March 2024.

He always wanted to write a book, so we just kind of came together and said, Look, I didn't know I was ever gonna write a book. I'm probably gonna only ever have one. Youve never wrote one, so let's just do this thing and see how it comes out,' Parson said.

The Parsons will not keep any of the proceeds from the book but instead donate them to the Moving Missouri Forward Foundation. This nonprofit, founded by first lady Teresa Parson, supports programs such as Jobs for Americas Graduates in Missouri, as well as initiatives helping children with special needs, and other programs focused on children across Missouri.

As you go through the book, there's one recurring thing that will happen all the time. It's that people have helped me along the way, Parson said. There's just so many people in my life that have just kind of helped me along the way. So I hope by giving the proceeds that maybe we can help some kids along the way.

Parson hopes that by sharing his story, kids who grew up in similar situations as him will feel inspired to dream without self-imposed limits on their future. Parson, who grew up in Wheatland, is the youngest of four sons and the first to be born in a hospital, to parents Victor and Helen Parson.

In the book, it starts off talking about my mom and dad, and it says, Little did they know at that time, they were giving birth to the 57th governor of the state of Missouri. Parson said. That just kind of struck me like, wow, that's a long way from where I come from in Wheatland.

Missouri Governor Mike Parson reflects on his time in office and what he plans to do after he leaves office during an interview at his farm near Bolivar on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023.

His parents worked as sharecroppers when he was a child, and he recalls not having a lot of material things as he grew up. But he did have a supportive, nurturing, faith-based community of neighbors.

When I was running for lieutenant governor, there was a lady up in Warsaw, who was everyones grandma, who said, Oh honey, you must have been poor, Parson said. It was the first time in my life that anybody had referred to us as poor, and she didnt mean anything by it, but the truth of the matter, looking back on it, we probably were but we just didnt know it at the time.

As a young adult, Parson recalls a few run-ins with the law, which he feels influenced his decision to enter law enforcement as a career later in his life.

I was young and disappointed my parents a little bit, to say the least, did some things I wish I hadnt done, Parson said.

I can kind of joke around about it now, but probably the reason why I got into law enforcement is because of all the trouble I got into when I was younger. It probably did give me an insight into how to become a better law enforcement officer in my career.

Following this time, Parson decided to join the Army, where he spent six years. After he was discharged, he returned to Missouri, making a home in Bolivar and later spending 22 years in law enforcement, 12 of those as Polk County sheriff.

He and his wife, Teresa, have two adult children, six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Parson is a small business owner, operating a cattle farm near Bolivar.

A sign on a gate at Missouri Governor Mike Parson's farm near Bolivar on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023.

He served in the Missouri House of Representatives from 2005-2011 before being elected to the Missouri Senate, where he served from 2011-2017. He was lieutenant governor in 2017-2018, taking over as governor in 2018 following the resignation of Eric Greitens.

Parson, a graduate of Wheatland High School, hopes that his ascent to the states highest elected office will serve as an example to Missouris youth that they can achieve great things even if getting a college degree isnt their goal.

If I was to address those kids as governor, the first thing they're probably gonna do is to sum you up and think you're somewhat privileged to get to do that, that you come from a different background than them, Parson said.

But then when you tell the story of how I grew up, the things that I did, the mistakes that I've made, you can tell all of a sudden, you're capturing the attention of everybody in there. Then when they find out you've got a high school degree, and you don't have a fancy pedigree behind you, you get a lot of people listening.

More: Missouri aims to become mining hub for critical minerals, battery components

Building a strong foundation based on infrastructure, workforce development

Missouri Governor Mike Parson reflects on his time in office and what he plans to do after he leaves office during an interview at his farm near Bolivar on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023.

During his term as governor, Parson has led the state through some trying times and had the opportunity to experience a lot of firsts for any Missouri governor.

Picking five statewide elected officers, that's never been done before in the states history. Becoming governor the way I've become governor, that hadn't happened before, under circumstances like that. Picking three Supreme Court judges, that hadn't been done for over 30 years, Parson said. Facing COVID, facing droughts, floods, civil unrest, and all these things that happened  it seemed like there were so many firsts in everything.

When Parson was appointed governor in 2018, he already had a good deal of life experience under his belt, including business management, law enforcement, military service, agricultural expertise and various elected offices within state government.

When I became governor, I had a good knowledge of the political process, so the question really became OK, now the balls in your court, in your hands, what are the things that you want to do as governor? Parson said.

In response to that question, Parson said he hoped to find a way to provide opportunities for the people of Missouri. He chose to focus on workforce development and infrastructure improvements, which by their nature give way to the attraction of new businesses to the state.

These were topics that he touched on in his annual State of the State addresses, as well as the platform that he ran on during the 2020 election, in which he won with 57.1% of the vote, coming in at 16.4 percentage points higher than Democratic challenger Nicole Galloway.

Missouri Governor Mike Parson reflects on his time in office and what he plans to do after he leaves office during an interview at his farm near Bolivar on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023.

It's about helping everyday people, all the way from preschool education to high school and to make sure a high school kid knows you don't have to go to college to be successful, Parson said. Some of them will, but a lot of them are not going to, and it's OK to find another profession, that you may have to have the skill and the training to be able to do it.

Missouri is currently second in the nation for new apprenticeships and third for completed apprenticeships as of November.

I knew that would change the environment of the workforce and bring jobs to Missouri and things of that nature, Parson said. Then the infrastructure piece, theres highways, airports, rail, river ports, all of the things that we've been able to do over the last five years, it's just incredible.

While hes been in office, a new terminal was constructed at the Kansas City International Airport, while significant improvements were completed at the Columbia Regional Airport. Interstate 70 will be widened to three lanes, and I-44 is slated to receive improvements.

Those kinds of things make a difference in whether businesses come here, or they don't come here, which means more people go to work, Parson said. One thing I have learned as governor in trying to recruit businesses or companies is, if you're not doing something to develop a workforce for tomorrow, they're not confident. But somebody else will, and that's where the businesses are gonna go.

More: Missouri Partnership launches Missouri Loves Company campaign to attract new businesses

Parson looks to life after politics

Missouri Governor Mike Parson reflects on his time in office and what he plans to do after he leaves office during an interview at his farm near Bolivar on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023.

With one year left in office, Parson is looking forward to enjoying some time with his family when he leaves office. While he didnt say exactly what he plans to do after leaving office, he and his wife will be exiting the states political scene.

We're definitely looking forward to finishing out our political career, Parson said. I have no desire to stay in politics after this. There's not a future in that arena for me, and nor do I want it to be.

He looks forward to spending time in his home, which was purchased shortly before he took office.

We've never really got to live in this house since I've become governor, Parson said. We'd actually just moved in here about four weeks before I got called to be governor. We've never just lived here actually.

Above all, he hopes to make up for lost time with his family, including his grandchildren and great-grandson. During his time as governor, hes kept a busy schedule attending events across the state, the nation and the world.

It's a grueling pace. If you're going to be the governor, you gotta do it right, Parson said. You're gonna give up a certain part of your life for the schedule that you have to try to maintain, whether you want to or not. You just don't have much control over time.

Parson has also sacrificed his own private life for the sake of being governor. He is generally accompanied by members of his staff and his security team, which have become as close as family members to him.

Missouri Governor Mike Parson reflects on his time in office and what he plans to do after he leaves office during an interview at his farm near Bolivar on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023.

I think people need to understand that when youre the governor of the state of Missouri, you lose your private side of your life, Parson said. Just going out doing the simple things in life, you just can't do that easily, for a lot of good reasons.

However, Parson is grateful that the people of Missouri elected him to serve in this role and happy to have given those years of his life to improving the state. To him, being governor is less about the person in office than about serving the people of the state as best he can.

If you sit in that seat, you realize it's never about the last name. It's about the office of governor. That's what's really important, Parson said. It's about what you do in the short period of time you're there to maintain who we are as Missourians. That's the job of governor.

Parson feels that if Missourians can say that he did a pretty good job as governor hell be the happiest guy there is. For him, it's never been about personal advancement, but rather about laying a strong foundation for Missouri to continue to grow.

I had a time in history that I was governor of this great state, and my job was to maintain that integrity of who we are as Missourians, no matter where you live or who you are, Parson said. It's not about politics. It's about the office.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Mike Parson reflects on time as Missouri governor, final year in office
Overall in the U.S., 8.2 million people left their state and moved to another one in 2022, a 3.8% increase over 2021, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

A USA TODAY report detailed the roughly 545,500 residents who left the Empire State in 2022, many of them heading to the Sunshine State.

The data shows that 91,201 New Yorkers moved to Florida in 2022. The population of Florida in 2022 was 22,244,823, which was a 1.91% increase from 2021's population of 21,828,069.

Last year, the U.S. Census Bureau declared that Florida was the nations fastest-growing state for the first time since 1957. What's been driving the migration trend from New York to Florida? And what do officials have to say about it?

Why are New Yorkers relocating to Florida?

According to data from the Census Bureau, the New York has topped the list for sending its residents to the Florida since 2016.

According to past USA TODAY reports, some of the top reasons why New Yorkers are trading in their state drivers licenses for a Florida one are the draw of warmer weather, fewer taxes and Florida's pandemic-era government lockdown policies.

In September 2020, while the coronavirus was still spreading and much more deadly, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis lifted all restrictions on restaurants and other businesses in the state and banned local fines against people who refused to wear masks in an effort to reopen the states economy. The move still appeals to many even three years later.

Jackie Bild, a real estate agent at Douglas Elliman based in Miami, told USA TODAY that she has worked with a lot of New Yorkers moving to the state, especially since the pandemic. She said since March 2023, roughly 30% of her buyers in the past year were from New York City and more than half of her clients in the past two years have been from out of town.

"People talk about the Florida lifestyle and weather, but they also say government policy, like when during COVID when our city was more open and lenient on things, as another reason why they came here," she said back in March.

What age groups are mostly moving to Florida?

The Census Bureau's American Community Survey showed that Florida gained members of every generation, from millennials to baby boomers in 2021. New York, however, experienced a net loss of every generation except Gen Z, the youngest adults.

Is Florida cheaper than New York?

Bild said in the report that "Florida is still affordable  for New Yorkers."

In January of this year, the median sale price of a home in New York state was $486,200. In Florida, it was $386,500.

However, RealtyHops Housing Affordability Index, released in December, examined the share of income U.S. households would have to spend on homeownership costs. Miami turned out to be the least affordable city in the U.S., followed by Los Angeles and New York.

What are the top reasons in general Americans are moving?

The top reason Americans moved in 2022 were to improve their quality of life, with nearly a quarter of people saying it was the most important factor in why they moved states, according to a survey from Home Bay, a California-based real estate brokerage.

Other top reasons why Americans moved included living in a cheaper area, getting a bigger home, upsizing, work flexibility and major life changes.

What are the top 10 states New Yorkers are heading to?

These states had the largest influx of former New York residents in 2022:

Florida: 91,201

New Jersey: 75,103

Connecticut: 50,670

Pennsylvania: 44,807

California: 31,255

Texas: 30,890

North Carolina: 25,024

Massachusetts: 21,186

Virginia: 17,516

Georgia: 16,535

Which states did New Yorkers seem to avoid in 2022?

Wyoming, Montana, Iowa, Mississippi and South Dakota all had fewer than 500 people move from New York in 2022, USA TODAY reported.

What has DeSantis said about the influx of new Floridians over the years?

DeSantis has often acknowledged the state's population growth as a major plus.

In various speeches over the past year, the governor tends to single out two Democratic states for their declining populations  California and New York. He even pointed out to California Gov. Gavin Newsom during a debate in November about how 51,000 Californians flocked to Florida last year.

"Hes the first governor to ever lose population," DeSantis said during the debate. "They actually, at one point, ran out of U-Hauls in the state of California because so many people were leaving."

In January 2022, U-Haul said that it ran out of one-way trucks and trailers in California at the start of 2021 due to the large demand of people moving out of California in 2020, leaving fewer trucks.

Contributing reporting: Sara Chernikoff and Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamyt, USA Today Network

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Thousands of New Yorkers are relocating to Florida. Data shares why
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6)  Rescuers may arrive by Thursday at the crash site of the Piper aircraft that went missing last Nov. 30 and which was spotted in Isabela, the provinces disaster management office said on Wednesday.

An initial 11 responders were dropped off via a Philippine Air Force (PAF) helicopter on Wednesday noon at a landing zone near the foot of the mountain where the plane was sighted, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) reported.

The aircraft was carrying two people when it went missing shortly after leaving Cauayan Airport in Isabela.

Isabela PDRRMO head Atty. Constante Foronda Jr. said the responders deployed included two from the PAF, four from the PDRRMO, and five from the Bureau of Fire Protection-Special Response Unit.

Said rescuers may reach the plane by tomorrow, Foronda said. Other rescue groups are still on their way to the crash site. We expect no other developments until tomorrow."

Authorities earlier reported that the Piper appears intact and that there is good chance of the occupants survival.

They also suspected that strong winds may have affected the planes flight.
Jimcy McGirt

An Oklahoma man at the center of a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision on tribal sovereignty has entered a guilty plea to sexually abusing a child in exchange for getting credit for time already served in prison.

In Muskogee federal court Tuesday, Jimcy McGirt, 75, of Holdenville, entered a guilty plea to one count of aggravated sexual abuse in Indian Country.

The written plea agreement recommends McGirt, who was convicted of sexually abusing a 4-year-old girl in 1996, be sentenced to 30 years in prison followed by five years of probation.

Attorneys agreed to recommend McGirt be given credit for the time he previously served in both state and federal custody on previous convictions related to the case, the U.S. Department of Justice said.

Its been a long time, Richard OCarroll, the Tulsa-based attorney, told The Oklahoman on Wednesday. Hes served more than 30 years as computed by the Bureau of Prisons. He has a family structure outside the walls and hes looking forward to his release.

McGirts plea change came just days before his federal court retrial.

What to know about the plea, and what happens next

The plea agreement says, in part:

In reaching this agreement, the parties have considered various factors, including, but not limited to: the defendants acceptance of responsibility; the age of witnesses needed to testify; the impact of their testimony on their well-being and their relationship to the parties; judicial economy; and the interests of justice.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Jason A. Robertson presided over the plea hearing and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.

McGirt will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service until his sentencing hearing, which has not yet been set. At that time, the court will determine whether to accept the plea agreement.

A Justice Department spokesperson told The Oklahoman on Wednesday no comment would be forthcoming.

In June, the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that a U.S. district judge in Muskogee committed an error in instructing the jury in 2020 and overturned McGirts convictions on two counts of aggravated sexual abuse in Indian Country and one count of abusive sexual contact in Indian Country.

McGirt was given three life sentences in 2021.

Supreme Court ruling on McGirt case reshaped criminal jurisdiction in parts of Oklahoma

McGirts federal trial followed his release from state prison after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled he was wrongly tried by Oklahoma state prosecutors for he is Native American and the crimes occurred on the Muscogee (Creek) reservation, which was never officially disestablished by Congress.

The 2020 high court decision reshaped criminal jurisdiction in eastern Oklahoma, where reservations have since been affirmed for the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Ottawa, Peoria, Quapaw and Seminole nations.

Now, Native American defendants are tried by federal or tribal prosecutors for crimes committed on the reservations.

Jimcys a very intelligent man and he is fully aware of his impact, OCarroll told The Oklahoman.

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled last year that the state has criminal jurisdiction concurrent with the federal government over non-Indians accused of crimes against Native Americans.

In McGirts federal appeal, the 10th Circuit court ruled that the jury in the Eastern District of Oklahoma case was wrongly limited in how it could weigh inconsistent testimony from the witnesses made at McGirts criminal proceedings in 1997.

Unquestionably, there was sufficient evidence to sustain the verdicts, the appeals court said. But the court pointed to internal inconsistencies and weaknesses in the testimony by the government witnesses that demonstrates the significance of the district courts decision to prohibit the jury from considering the witnesses prior inconsistent statements as substantive evidence.

Because the appeals court reversed McGirts convictions, it did not rule on his arguments about his three life sentences, which required a variance from federal sentencing guidelines.

The court rejected new jurisdiction claims made by McGirt, including that his prosecution violated a treaty between the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and the U.S. government.

The court said the 2020 decision by the U.S. Supreme Court acknowledged that the Major Crimes Act violated tribal self-governance promises but that it also upheld the federal governments jurisdiction over McGirt.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Days before retrial in Oklahoma, McGirt agrees to plea guilty
In some respects, our culture seems to be experiencing a psychedelic renaissance, meaning a social and cultural upheaval fueled by mounting scientific evidence that there are some clinical benefits to the class of drugs encompassing LSD, psilocybin (i.e., magic mushrooms") and DMT, most of which are highly illegal in most jurisdictions on the planet. While such drugs are infamous for the perceptual distortions they can cause, a growing body of research suggests that psychedelics can also be a balm for the mind, providing some relief for stubborn depression, PTSD and addiction.

Though it will likely still some time before the U.S. Food and Drug Administration officially sanctions these drug therapies, if that ever happens, reforms in Oregon, Colorado and over a dozen U.S. cities have helped erase the criminal penalties for changing ones mind, as Michael Pollan put it.

Amid an apparent epidemic of mental illness epidemic coupled with the unrelenting overdose crisis, which cumulatively claim hundreds of thousands of lives yearly, many people are seeking relief. When they hear about the potential for psychedelics in these arenas of suffering, many are willing to experiment without waiting for medical and legal bureaucracy to catch up. This has created booming demand, with plenty of suppliers eager to fill the gap. Some have opened brick-and-mortar shops that resemble cannabis dispensaries or pharmacies, but this (unsurprisingly) tends to attract police attention.

On Nov. 1, three businesses in Vancouver, Canada, were raided by police for selling psychedelic drugs, including psilocybin mushrooms, LSD and DMT, the latter being the active ingredient in the Amazonian brew ayahuasca. These stores, which have been operating since 2019, reopened a few days later. Their owner, Dana Larsen, an author and activist, says he has run these shops as an act of civil disobedience  and is no stranger to law enforcement scrutiny. In 2019, one of Larsens unlicensed marijuana dispensaries was cleaned out by police and he has been arrested for handing out cannabis seeds.

Why does he keep opening back up if the cops keep shutting him down? Larsen says he believes the end of drug prohibition is nigh, given the overwhelming evidence that banning certain chemicals makes them more dangerous, not less. Salon spoke with Larsen about the growing opposition to drug reforms in Canada and how he runs his not-entirely-legal business.

This conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Can you share your history of challenging drug policy in Canada?

I'm 52 now and I've been doing this stuff since I was a teenager  over 30 years of working to change the drug laws in Canada, one way or the other. I opened one of the first medicinal cannabis dispensaries in the city back in 2008. I was very influential in getting the cannabis dispensary movement going in Vancouver and in Canada, encouraging others to open their own shops. I think that was a necessary prerequisite to getting legalization happening: having hundreds of shops across the country openly selling cannabis before legalization.

Dana Larsen in front of a dispensary sign

I feel now we're in a parallel situation when it comes to mushrooms and psychedelics. In the late 90s and early 2000s, we had a lot of court cases in Canada affirming patients right to use medicinal cannabis and a growing understanding among the public that medicinal marijuana was a valid thing. And it certainly changed people's perceptions around cannabis use. We're kind of using the same strategies now.

I opened one of the very first mushroom shops in Vancouver. There's over a dozen shops now selling mushrooms, but our shops, I think, remain unique because of the range of things that we sell. We don't just sell psilocybin mushrooms, but also LSD, DMT, kratom, coca leaf and things like that. There's no other shops in the world where you can walk in and access all those products like you can from us.

To make a purchase or come into our shop, you have to be over 19. We check their IDs and make them sign a form saying they're going to be a responsible user, they're not going to provide it to children or pets, are not going to swim or climb or drive or do anything irresponsible.

I also still run some of the very last old school unlicensed [cannabis] dispensaries. And we use the funds from our cannabis shops and from our psychedelic shops to fund a program called Get Your Drugs Tested. We started this in 2019 and we have become the world's busiest center for free street drug analysis. We're able to analyze your substance and tell you what's in it, checking for fentanyl and things like that, but also just making sure that it is what it's supposed to be. We were getting close to over 60,000 substances analyzed. I'm very proud of that service.

When you're doing this kind of civil disobedience, you're always aware that you can be raided or attacked by the police. But I wasn't really expecting those kinds of issues. The Vancouver police had been in the media before saying that they did not consider shops like ours a priority, and that they would let the city bureaucracy deal with us rather than do a raid. This was the same kind of philosophy that they had during the heyday of cannabis dispensaries in the city. At one point there were over 100 unlicensed cannabis shops in the city.

Dana Larsen being arrested on November 1

And when people asked the VPD, Why aren't you raiding these places? they would say, Look, it costs us about $40,000 to raid one of these shops, they reopen a few hours later, the prosecutors don't want to prosecute, the courts don't want to put anybody in jail. So it's not worth the time and effort on our part.

I always felt we had a good relationship with the VPD. And then they come storming into all of our locations, seized all of our money, all of our products  a huge financial hit for us. I spent seven hours in custody, but I wasn't charged or given any conditions, which shows how ridiculous it is that they do this massive raid, but they don't bother charging anybody with any criminal charges. It seems kind of odd.

You haven't been charged with a crime? This happened like a couple of weeks ago, right?

Typically, they have up to a year or so to charge me if they want to. But usually the charges would be laid right away. It's very unusual for them to wait. I could be wrong, but I don't think I'm going to be charged. If they did [charge me], we would fight those. We have some very good lawyers and very strong constitutional arguments. I think there's a very good chance that we could win in court, if it came down to it.

Want more health and science stories in your inbox? Subscribe to Salon's weekly newsletter Lab Notes.

It didnt take you long to reopen after the raid.

We reopened our main location the next day. It took a little while to get the other two locations reopened, mainly because we had to get stock and re-prepare it, weigh it and sort it and put it in baggies and label it and all that.

It's odd to me that we were the only one targeted. I don't want to see anybody targeted but certainly coming after me when of all the mushroom dispensaries in the city, we're the only one operating a program like Get Your Drugs Tested. I'm clearly the most idealistic of all of the dispensary operators and the one most committed to helping my community. I think it was a political raid.

A week before we got raided, there was a group called the Drug User Liberation Front. For about two years they were operating, basically, a heroin compassion club, where they would buy heroin, meth and cocaine off the dark web, get it tested at our service or a different service and then provide it to their customers. They were supplying things to about 40-odd people, a tiny fraction compared to the number of drug users in British Columbia. But it got in the news in a negative way and some of the opposition politicians here in British Columbia were making hay out of it.

So suddenly, this program loses their funding. Their funding wasn't to buy drugs, it was to operate a space to do other things. Actually, we were their biggest donors when it comes to money to make [drug] purchases. We supplied them probably $7,000 or $8,000.

But they got on the news, they got raided and they got conditions placed on them, so they had to shut down. And then a week later, we got raided. I don't feel that's a coincidence. I feel this is a political decision and not one made by the police here in Vancouver themselves. I think that they were put under pressure by provincial politicians.

I think the provincial NDP [the center-right New Democratic Party] are feeling embarrassed by us and by DULF, and told the police to shut us down. That's why we got targeted and none of the other mushroom shops in the city had been raided.

What is your motivation in doing all of this? It could be argued that you're just trying to make money.

We do have business licenses for two of our three mushroom dispensary locations. But there's no category for psychedelics in the business license system, so we applied as a retail outlet. Actually, we have a hearing on Dec. 6 to try to take away our license at one location.

Yes, we do make money. You need to make a profit to run a business and we use our profits for programs like Get Your Drugs Tested and also activism and community change. People could question my motives. But the reality is, I've been doing this for over 30 years and I could be a millionaire if I wanted to. We've spent well over $1.5 million on Get Your Drugs Tested. I'm very idealistic. I don't really need to have huge amounts of money for myself. I want to see political change happen. I've devoted my life to trying to end the war on drugs.

I recognized at a young age that this was a very bad social policy that was causing lots of harm. And I've only seen that decision of mine fully vindicated over the years. Now we're in this massive death crisis caused by drug poisonings, I've certainly lost friends to this as well, and many other people have, too. So, you know, when I'm old and looking back on my life, if I have a big stack of money that's not really what I'm looking for. I'm looking to be able to say, Hey, I helped end the war on drugs in Canada.
Four-legged robots like Boston Dynamics Spot and Cheetah owe almost all their agility to fancy footwork. While they may visually move much like their mammalian counterparts, the anatomical inspirations largely stop at their legs. In biology, however, a quadrupedal animal's movement, flexibility, and intricate motor functions stem almost entirely from its spine. Replicating that complex system of stacked vertebrae in robots is much more difficult than the legsbut if artificial spines could be integrated into such designs, engineers could open up entirely new avenues of precise maneuverability.

[Related: A new tail accessory propels this robot dog across streams .]

Now, engineers are reportedly a few steps further towards spine-centric quadruped bots thanks to a research teams very uncanny, rodent-inspired robot. Writing in Science Robotics on Wednesday, collaborators across Germany and China have unveiled NeRmo, a biomimetic, four-legged robot that relies on a novel motor-tendon framework to scurry its way around environments.

As far as looks go, NeRmo mirrors a mouses skeletal systemalthough the ears, although cute, are likely superfluous. The robots rigid front half houses its electronics systems, while its latter half functions much as an actual flexible spine would, with four lumbar and lateral joints. Artificial tendons thread through the spine as well as the robots elbow and knee joints allow NeRmo even more mouselike movements alongside quicker turning times.

https://youtu.be/DX4ih3jpOyI

According to collaborators at the Technical University of Munich, University of Technology Nuremberg, and Chinas Sun Yat-Sen University, NeRmos tendon-pulley system precludes the need for any musculature while still allowing for smooth flexion capabilities across the lateral and sagittal planes, i.e. side-to-side, and up-and-down.

To test their new design, the team ran NeRmo through a series of four experiments to demonstrate static balancing, straight-line walking, agile turning, and maze navigation. Each trial included two roundsone with the spinal system engaged, and another with it disabled. Across the board, NeRmo performed their tasks better, faster, and more accurately when it integrated the spine into its movements.

Maze navigation, however, was NeRmos true shining moment. With its spine engaged, the mouse-bot completed its labyrinth runs an average of 30 percent faster than simply waddling through without spinal support.

Although still in its early stages, researchers believe further design tweaking and integration of the spinal systems into future quadruped robots could vastly improve their functionality. If NeRmo wasnt proof enough, think of it this way MITs Cheetah can gallop at 13 feet-per-second with just one actuated joint mimicking spinal flexion in the sagittal plane. NeRmo, meanwhile, has eight joints.
The Memphis City Council on Tuesday discussed festivities that will take place in May at Tom Lee Park. Carol Coletta, president and CEO of the Memphis River Parks Partnership, said that the new music festival that will take place in Tom Lee Park will fill the void that the loss of Memphis in May has made.

Coletta confirmed in October that Forward Momentum, the promotors of Mempho Music Festival, will be holding a new festival in Tom Lee Park in May. MEMPHO Music Fest in the Botanical Garden will still be held, and this event will be separate. In addition to the music event, Forward Momentum will also host a food event, according to Coletta.

The new event will be more accessible to the public, according to Art Davis, chief operating officer at the Memphis River Parks Partnership. Forward Momentum has changed the layout to better protect the park, and also condense the "move in and move out," Davis said.

Councilman Chase Carlisle said the loss of Memphis in May events being blamed on the redevelopment of Tom Lee Park has created a very divisive setting.

"I've never seen a more disheartening set of circumstances as this park has been renovated and restored. And I think that the narrative that has been out there is the most disappointing," Carlisle said. "Which is the park is going to ruin this major economic development event."

Carlisle continued, saying that Memphis in May set up the festival in a way that was not good for festival goers culminating with poor ticket sales and lower food vendors, making the event less than ideal. When Forward Momentum stepped in, according to Carlisle, the group was able to show that events in Tom Lee Park will still be profitable and that the park is still usable for these types of events.

More: With Memphis in May's longtime leader set to retire, what's next for beleaguered festival?

"I think we have to figure out, like what's in the best interest of the city, but I think what's being lost here is that you have a group that claims that they were kicked out of the park and events can't be produced," Carlisle said. "And another group saying, if you feel that way, that's OK. But we will show you that we can bring those events back."

Chairman Martavius Jones said that the economic impact of the festival and the development of Tom Lee Park will be the possible reduction of festival goers. The estimated population in the park for the event is 99,000, compared to 120,000 before the park renovations.

Malia Ezell and her brother Xavier Ezell, 5, look out on the Mississippi River and Hernando de Soto Bridge from the newly renovated Tom Lee Park shortly after it officially opened to the public in Downtown Memphis on Saturday, September 2, 2023.

"So my point is just the economic impact of 20-30,000 less people over three days, it's something there," Jones said.

Riverside Drive updates

City of Memphis Chief Operating Officer Chandell Ryan told the Council that the closure of Riverside Drive was due to the Memphis Police Department's "weekend plan." The plan, according to Ryan, was to curb large crowds in Downtown during the summer, and that Riverside Drive will be open for the "foreseeable future."

"If there is a request for (Riverside Drive) to be placed back onto the weekend plan, we will be happy to come back and talk about it," Ryan said.

The weekend plan was put in place by MPD to have better control and access to Beale Street.

Brooke Muckerman covers Shelby County Government for The Commercial Appeal. She can be reached at 901-484-6225, brooke.muckerman@commercialappeal.com and followed on X, formerly known as Twitter @BrookeMuckerman

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Memphis in May: after shakeups, city council talks Tom Lee Park festivals
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6)  Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) hosts Jeffrey Celiz and Lorraine Badoy might spend the holidays in detention after lawmakers cited them in contempt for being disrespectful and avoiding answering questions during a House hearing.

Speaking to CNN Philippines The Source on Wednesday, Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Ty Pimentel said a committee report, which is still being crafted, must be first adopted during a plenary session before both SMNI hosts are released.

Next week we only have three days, so if the committee report will not be approved by next week, then they will have to be detained until we resume session on Jan. 22, he explained.

They can make an appeal for a furlough for them to spend Christmas, holidays with their family, which has to be approved by lawmakers, he added.

During the hearing on Tuesday for the alleged fake news peddling by SMNI, members of the Committee on Legislative Franchises cited Celiz in contempt for refusing to reveal who was the source of his claim that Speaker Martin Romualdez spent 1.8 billion for his foreign trips.

Celiz earlier said that this information came from a source in the Senate, but later admitted that his allegation was false after House Secretary General Reginald Velasco clarified that Romualdez only had a 4.3-million travel budget from January to October 2023.

The SMNI host insisted that he is bound by the Sotto Law, which protects journalists and other media practitioners involved in news dissemination from being compelled to name their sources.

Pimentel said such a law does not apply to Celiz because he is not a duly recognized or accredited broadcaster by the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas.

For Badoy, she was cited in contempt for refusing to answer questions and disrespecting members of the committee when she lied about her role in SMNI and the networks profit details.
The man convicted of murdering Meredith Kercher, the British student, has been accused of beating up his girlfriend.

Rudy Guede was jailed for the 2007 murder after Kercher, from Coulsdon in Surrey, was found in the bedroom of her rented accommodation in the Italian university town of Perugia, partially undressed and with multiple stab wounds.

The two other people accused of being involved in her murder, Amanda Knox, an American undergraduate, and her Italian boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito, were initially convicted but ultimately acquitted of the crime after a tortuous legal process.

New charges

Guede, who is originally from the Ivory Coast and came to Italy as a child, was released from prison in November 2021 after serving 13 years of a 16-year sentence.

The 36-year-old has now been issued with a restraining order and fitted with an electronic tag after being accused of physically abusing an ex-girlfriend.

A judge in Viterbo in the region of Lazio, where Guede lives, ordered him to stay at least 500 metres away from his former girlfriend, who is in her early twenties.

Prosecutors had wanted him to be placed under house arrest.

He is being investigated on charges of personal injury, ill-treatment and violence, according to Ansa, the national news agency.

Guede is yet to publicly respond to the allegations.

He has always insisted he had nothing to do with the murder of Kercher, a Leeds University student who had come to Italy for a year to study.

Guede claimed he had been on a date with her, had gone to the lavatory, and then came back to her bedroom to find her stabbed to death.

Fled by train

After the murder, he fled by train to Germany, where he was arrested a few days later. His DNA was found at the murder scene as well as on the students body.

Ms Kercher was sharing a house in Perugia with Ms Knox, from Seattle, and two Italian women.

Meredith Kercher was a Leeds University student who had come to Italy for a year to study - Kercher Family

In response to the news that Guede had been accused of domestic violence, Ms Knox told Ansa: Im very sorry for his ex-girlfriend. How frightening.

Her former co-accused, Mr Sollecito, said: I dont follow Guedes life but in light of what has happened, it seems like he hasnt changed very much.

The person that he was before being sent to prison, the person that we found out about from the evidence, sadly thats been reconfirmed.

Guede was released from prison early because of good behaviour. For about two years before his release, he had been allowed out on day release and had worked at a centre for criminology in Viterbo.

Ms Knox and Mr Sollecito spent four years in jail after they were initially convicted of the murder of the young British woman, a case which garnered huge attention on both sides of the Atlantic.

They were acquitted in 2011, only to be convicted again in 2014 by an appeals court in Florence.

But those convictions were then overturned by Italys supreme court in 2015, in a definitive ruling that closed the case.

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.
Juan Pablo Vargas makes matador cape movements during a demonstration where supporters and opponents of bullfighting gathered outside the Supreme Court building in Mexico City, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023. Mexico's Supreme Court is scheduled to decide whether to reverse a more than yearlong ban on bullfighting. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano)

MEXICO CITY (AP)  Mexicos Supreme Court on Wednesday overturned a 2022 ban on bullfighting in Mexico City, opening the way for events to resume.

A panel of five justices voted to overturn a May 2022 injunction that said bullfights violated city residents rights to a healthy environment free from violence.

The justices did not explain their arguments for overturning the ban, but bullfight organizers claimed it violated their right to continue the tradition. The capital had a history of almost 500 years of bullfighting, but there had been no fights since the 2022 injunction.

A crowd of people gathered outside the Supreme Court building Wednesday, holding up signs reading Bulls Yes, Bullfighters No! and Mexico says no to bullfights.

Critics say the fights inherently represent cruelty to animals.

Animals are not things, they are living beings with feelings, and these living, feeling beings deserve protection under the constitution of Mexico City, said city councilman Jorge Gavino, who has tried three times to pass legislation for a permanent ban. None has passed.

Bullfight organizers say it is a question of rights.

This is not an animal welfare issue. This is an issue of freedoms, and how justice is applied to the rest of the public, said Jose Saborit, the director of the Mexican Association of Bullfighting. A small sector of the population wants to impose its moral outlook, and I think there is room for all of us in this world, in a regulated way.

Since 2013, several of Mexico's 32 states have banned bullfights. Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Uruguay have banned bullfighting.

According to historians, Spanish conqueror Hernan Cortes watched some of the first bullfights in the city in the 1520s, soon after his 1521 Conquest of the Aztec capital.

____

Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
(CNN)  US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced a new policy Tuesday to prevent extremist Israeli settlers responsible for violence in the West Bank from coming to the United States.

Today, the State Department is implementing a new visa restriction policy targeting individuals believed to have been involved in undermining peace, security, or stability in the West Bank, including through committing acts of violence or taking other actions that unduly restrict civilians access to essential services and basic necessities, Blinken said in a statement.

Immediate family members of such persons also may be subject to these restrictions, he added.

The US State Department will be able to apply the policy to both Israelis and Palestinians who are responsible for attacks in the West Bank, Blinken said.

Blinken did not name any individuals who will be subject to the visa restrictions, nor did he say how many would be included in the initial tranche of restrictions.

Ultimately, the new policy is expected to impact dozens of individuals and potentially their family members, US State Department spokesperson Matt Miller said Tuesday.

Miller said at a press briefing that the department is taking steps Tuesday to impose restrictions under the new policy.

Any Israeli citizen who currently has a visa to enter the United States will be notified that that visa has been revoked, Miller explained, referring to Israelis designated under the program.

Any other Israeli citizen who is designated as a result of this program, but does not currently have a visa, will not be notified. If they want to travel to the United States and they apply through ESTA, which is the way that it works if youre currently a Visa Waiver Program Country, that application will be rejected, he said.

Administration officials have signaled for weeks that they would take such action as violence in the West Bank has intensified in the wake of the October 7 Hamas attack.

In his engagements with Israeli officials since that attack, Blinken has called on the Netanyahu government to do more to hold the settlers responsible for the violence accountable.

As President Biden has repeatedly said, those attacks are unacceptable. Last week in Israel, I made clear that the United States is ready to take action using our own authorities, the top US diplomat reiterated in his statement Tuesday.

We will continue to seek accountability for all acts of violence against civilians in the West Bank, regardless of the perpetrator or the victim, Blinken said.

We also continue to engage with the Israeli leadership to make clear that Israel must take additional measures to protect Palestinian civilians from extremist attacks. We will also continue to engage the Palestinian Authority to make clear it must do more to curb Palestinian attacks against Israelis, he said. Both Israel and the Palestinian Authority have the responsibility to uphold stability in the West Bank. Instability in the West Bank both harms the Israeli and Palestinian people and threatens Israels national security interests. Those responsible for it must be held accountable.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Blinken announces policy to restrict visas to US for extremists in West Bank"
By now you likely know the bizarre and disturbing details of the sexual assault allegations against Florida Republican Party Chairman Christian Ziegler, as well as the salaciously convoluted relationship between him, his wife Bridget Ziegler and the couples threesome partner.

If not, I wrote about the initial reports here and my colleague Josh Marshall provides a detailed update here.

Backlash to Christian Ziegler in the face of the allegations was swift, even among Republican officials. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was joined by Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) today in calling on the Florida GOP chair to resign.

Organizations associated with Bridget Ziegler have been relatively quiet about the ordeal, likely because she was not present for the alleged rape, meaning her only offense is being a predictably hypocritical family values, anti-LGBTQ Republican. She had helped bring about Floridas now-notorious Dont Say Gay legislation and was a co-founder of the parental choice, book-banning Moms For Liberty organization, which has helped remove LGBTQ content in schools across the country and has been labeled an extremist group by the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Moms For Liberty sent me a statement today from co-founders Tiffany Justice and Tina Descovich, weighing in on the allegation against Christian Ziegler and not-so-subtly distancing the group from Bridget Ziegler (emphasis mine):

We have been truly shaken to read of the serious, criminal allegations against Christian Ziegler. We believe any allegation of sexual assault should be taken seriously and fully investigated. Bridget Ziegler resigned from her role as co-founder with Moms for Liberty within a month of our launch in January of 2021, nearly three years ago. She has remained an avid warrior for parental rights across the country. To our opponents who have spewed hateful vitriol over the last several days: We reject your attacks. We will continue to empower ALL parents to build relationships that ensure the survival of our nation and a thriving education system. We are laser-focused on fundamental parental rights, and that mission is and always will be bigger than any one person.

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A man wanted for his suspected involvement in a shooting Monday night turned himself in to Gautier police Tuesday.

Kimothy Rashad Washington, 40, of Moss Point, allegedly shot a 17-year-old during an altercation at the Magnolia Oaks apartment complex on Dubarry Drive.

Washington fled the scene and the teenager was taken to a local hospital with a wound that did not appear to be life threatening, according to a release from the Gautier Police Department.

The incident is still under investigation. If anyone has information, contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 228-497-2486 or Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-877-787-5898.
We are just a few weeks away from the release of Boys in the Boat.

The film is about the University of Washingtons 1936 rowing team and their journey to the Berlin summer Olympics.

Its based on the best-selling book by Daniel James who tells the story of Sequim native - Joe Rantz.

James and Rantzs daughter Judy attended Tuesdays King County Council meeting. The council declared December 25 to 31 Boys in the Boat Week.

You can catch the film in theaters on Christmas but if you want a sneak peek at what to expect, you can check out this new exhibit at the Museum of History and Industry in Seattles South Lake Union neighborhood.

It gives you the chance to experience Seattles rowing history first-hand. It features rare photos and items from the 1936 Olympic team and much more.

The exhibit runs until June 2.
Officials in Mt. Lebanon have issued a warning against scammers hitting their social media.

Mt. Lebanon Municipality - Government on Facebook said scammers are flooding their event posts looking to take money from victims.

The page said any event posted on their account, as well as Mt. Lebanon Police Department and Mt. Lebanon Fire Department, will have sign-ups posted within the event itself and never in the comments section.

Officials said the vendor and registration slots posted in the comments section are scams.

If you have fallen victim to one of these scams by paying them or giving your card information, youre asked to call 911 to make a report.

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DAYTONA BEACH  Daytona Beach City Manager Deric Feacher makes $285,681, a salary that exceeds the annual pay of Volusia County Manager George Recktenwald  who oversees a much larger budget and twice as many employees  as well as many other local government managers in Florida.

Feacher also makes more than Orlando Mayor John "Buddy" Dyer, who under Orlando's strong mayor form of government is that city's most powerful employee. Dyer is paid $245,060 per year.

More: Database lists salaries of Daytona Beach city employees  74 of them make six figures

And Feacher makes considerably more than Kissimmee City Manager Michael Steigerwald, who earns $238,451 annually and like Feacher runs the government of a city with a little more than 80,000 residents.

Deric Feacher started working as Daytona Beach's city manager in June of 2021 at an annual base salary of $220,000. Two and a half years later, he's making $285,681 per year. That's more than many Central Florida city managers.

A News-Journal analysis of eight local governments shows Feacher is among the highest-paid city managers in the state, and he's poised to hold that distinction with another raise coming to him in April that's going to bump up his yearly pay to $291,395.

"I have not requested anything from our elected officials beyond what we agreed to when I took the job," Feacher said when asked about his salary. "I will never ask for more than what the contract says."

In the two and a half years Feacher has led Daytona Beach's government, his bosses  the mayor and six city commissioners  haven't raised any major concerns about his pay or performance.

"I think Feacher is doing a top-shelf job," said Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry.

Winter Haven roots

Feacher grew up in Winter Haven, a small city between Orlando and Tampa.

He moved to Daytona Beach in the late 1990s to study at Bethune-Cookman University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in political science.

After college, Feacher headed back to his hometown and went to work for Winter Haven's city government. He was Winter Haven's assistant city manager from 2003 until 2013, when he was chosen to be the city manager there. He worked in that position until September 2016, when the city commission fired him on a 3-2 vote.

A year later, in October 2017, Feacher became the city manager of Haines City, located south of Orlando, where he stayed until he became Daytona Beach's city manager.

Feacher earned $133,000 annually as Winter Haven's city manager and $148,000 as the manager of Haines City.

Deric Feacher is halfway through a five-year contract to work as Daytona Beach's city manager. He'll be getting his first formal review from city commissioners early next year. Feacher is pictured standing outside the Corbin building on Main Street, which the city purchased early last year with a goal of redeveloping the mostly vacant property.

Feacher was 44 years old when he started the Daytona Beach city manager job on June 1, 2021 with an annual salary of $220,000. Outgoing City Manager Jim Chisholm, who was 76 at the time, was earning $257,000 when he stepped down in May of 2021.

Chisholm, who retired with more than 45 years of government leadership experience, had been Daytona Beach's city manager for 17 years.

City Commissioner Stacy Cantu said back in the spring of 2021 she thought Feacher should start at a slightly lower base salary of around $210,000. But no one else on the commission said they were uncomfortable with the $220,000, which at the time was only slightly more than what Daytona's deputy city manager and city attorney were earning.

Halfway through his five-year contract, Feacher has yet to get an annual review from city commissioners, who control city managers' pay and have hiring and firing power over the head administrator at City Hall. But Feacher's first review is in motion now, and the results of the commissioners' scored evaluations will be discussed at a meeting early next year.

It should become clear whether they, and any local residents who weigh in during his public job review, feel Feacher is earning the $137.35 per hour he's being paid.

No objection to raises

All of Daytona Beach's full-time city government employees, including Feacher, received 3% raises effective Oct. 1. All employees not at the maximum of their pay range will also receive a 2% pay increase in April. Those at the cap will receive a 2% lump sum.

Neither the mayor nor any of the city commissioners objected to any of the raises, including the city manager's, when the pay hikes were approved in September.

Feacher's contract says he will receive the same raises other employees do, and that he's also eligible for salary increases if commissioners review his pay and benefits each year.

Daytona Beach has more than 900 full-time employees, a new $343 million annual budget, and a city manager who makes $285,681 annually. City commissioners are pictured at a budget workshop at City Hall earlier this year.

Feacher supports the contention that paying employees well helps to attract and retain top talent.

"It has been the commissioners' aim to be the employer of choice in Volusia County," Feacher said in a recent interview. "I have worked to make sure our general employees and police and fire personnel are the highest-paid in Volusia County. I will continue to make that a priority as chief administrator."

Feacher, who's now 47 years old, isn't Daytona Beach's only well-paid top employee. City Attorney Ben Gross makes $264,709 annually, a salary he has worked up to in his more than 23 years working for the city of Daytona Beach.

Seven other top Daytona city employees, three of whom have also worked for the city for more than two decades, earn between $185,571 and $219,440.

Eighty-five Daytona city employees earn $95,000 or more, and 627 earn at least $50,000 each year. The four lowest-paid employees make $32,000, still not too bad for a city that has an average annual salary of $39,000 when all employers are factored in.

Volusia County government salaries

Daytona Beach has 925 full-time city government employees, and its annual budget for the fiscal year that began Oct. 1 is $343 million.

The Volusia County government has 2,022 employees under Recktenwald's command and a current annual budget of $1.19 billion. The 60-year-old Recktenwald, who has worked for the Volusia County government for more than 25 years, had been earning $246,706 per year until he got a 5% raise during his annual review at Tuesday's County Council meeting. His new salary is $259,041.

Recktenwald began his career with the county in 1997 as a public works supervisor. He worked his way up in leadership roles and was appointed county manager in 2019.

More than 1,050 county employees earn at least $50,000, more than 100 earn at least $100,000, and three make $200,000 or more.

Daytona Beach city commissioners in 2023. Standing from left to right are City Commissioners Quanita May, Stacy Cantu, Paula Reed and Ken Strickland. Seated from left to right are City Commissioner Monica Paris, Mayor Derrick Henry and City Commissioner Dannette Henry.

Orlando has a population of about 312,280, around 3,900 full-time city government employees, and a current annual budget of $1.76 billion.

Orlando has 20 employees who make $200,000 and up, and nearly 500 who make at least $100,000. The city's top-paid employee is the chief administrative officer, whose annual salary is $284,336.

Dyer has four employees under his command who actually make more than he does, but he's "the CEO of the city," said Orlando Public Information Officer Ashley Papagni. The chief administrative officer, Kevin Edmonds, reports to Dyer and essentially acts as the city manager and manages the operating departments, she said.

But Dyer oversees the entire city and has administrative power.

"It's not just a political position with voting power," she said. "All appointed positions serve at the pleasure of the mayor and may be terminated (by Dyer)."

Dyer is 65 years old, has been Orlando's mayor since 2003, and is a former Florida state senator.

Smaller cities, lower salaries ... mostly

Palm Coast City Manager Denise Bevan makes $181,999 annually to manage her city of 102,000 residents.

Kissimmee, which has a population close to that of Daytona Beach, has just two of its 645 city government employees making more than $200,000: the city manager who makes $238,451, and the city attorney, who earns $215,654.

Kissimmee has 60 employees making $95,000 or more, and 396 who earn at least $50,000 per year. Kissimmee's current annual budget is $267 million.

Port Orange City Manager Wayne Clark is paid $185,250 annually to oversee the city's 65,000 residents, 448 full-time government employees and a current annual budget of $187 million.

Ormond Beach City Manager Joyce Shanahan makes $199,846 per year to oversee Ormond's 42,000 residents, 362 full-time government employees and $120 million annual budget.

Ormond Beach city commissioners listen during a meeting on May 18, 2021. Pictured, left to right: Dwight Selby, Troy Kent, Mayor Bill Partington, Susan Persis, Rob Littleton and City Manager Joyce Shanahan.

Miami Beach, which like Daytona and Kissimmee has about 80,000 residents, pays its city government employees a lot more, but also has a higher cost of living.

Three of its 2,030 city government employees make more than $300,000. Miami Beach City Manager Alina Hudak, who has more than 30 years of experience in local government leadership, is paid $356,665 annually.

Miami Beach has 51 employees making more than $200,000, 422 making at least $100,000 and 1,778 making at least $50,000.

Miami Beach's current annual budget is $829 million.

The Volusia County government's two highest-paid employees are County Manager George Recktenwald, who's paid $246,706 per year and County Attorney Mike Dyer, pictured at left, who makes $230,607 annually.

Perks that come with the job

Feacher has received $65,680 in raises since arriving in Daytona Beach. The city also pays 100% of the premium cost charged by his health insurance provider, and he drives a city-owned vehicle.

His contract entitled him to receive a $991 monthly automobile allowance for in-county travel, a job perk worth $11,892 per year. But he chose the city vehicle instead.

He also accepted a one-time housing allowance of $8,500, and a relocation reimbursement of $5,000 when he took the job in Daytona Beach.

Feacher's salary and benefits have not been an issue during his tenure, and his local supporters are still standing beside him.

Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry, pictured at left, and City Manager Deric Feacher spoke to the media this summer about efforts to improve public safety along the Seabreeze Boulevard corridor with new lighting and cameras.

Cynthia Slater, longtime president of the Volusia County/Daytona Beach branch of the NAACP, likes that Feacher reaches out to all communities within the city, is open-minded and has maintained an open-door policy.

"I work well with him," she said.

She said when anyone contemplates Feacher's salary, they should consider Daytona Beach's growing population, the current cost of living, and the challenges the city grapples with.

"You have to look at where the city was, and where it is now," Slater said.

Local activist Anne Ruby doesn't have a problem with Feacher's salary in particular, but she argues that "raises to highly compensated employees should be tied directly to performance."

Ruby keeps a very close eye on Daytona Beach's city government, and she's been happy to see Feacher increasing funding for road maintenance, city building roof replacements and park improvements.

Daytona Beach city manager's early days: New Daytona Beach city manager hopes to 'accelerate the vision'

Ruby said Feacher "was hired as a transformative leader, but first he needed to get the city's house in order."

She still has high hopes for what he can do for Daytona Beach.

"Feacher has brought renewed hope and energy to City Hall," Ruby said. "I think his presence has engaged the City Commission in a way I haven't seen before. He's brought in some talented department heads with vision. If he can build public/private teams with the spirit to polish the jewel that is Daytona Beach, while keeping our unique identity intact, then in the grand scheme of things, his salary will be money well spent."

You can reach Eileen at Eileen.Zaffiro@news-jrnl.com

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Daytona Beach city manager among highest paid in Florida: Salary data
Who says Christian nationalism is a mans game? Jenny Donnelly  an apostle who claims God speaks to her prophetically in her dreams  wants to marshal an army of women to this extremist cause.

Donnelly is the founder of the Her Voice Movement, which is committed to activating a million women to stand for Christian dominion over American culture and politics in 2024. Under the guidance of top leaders of the Trump-aligned Christian right, Donnelly is organizing prayer rallies at every state Capitol next April. And she is working to stage a million-woman Christian nationalist march on the National Mall next October, near Election Day.

Donnellys movement-building has an appealing gloss of womens empowerment. Shes an experienced marketer  a former Hall of Fame earner for a multi-level-marketing company that got charged for operating as a pyramid scheme. But Donnelly preaches a dark message of Christian supremacy.

Im a really black-and-white person, she said in a video call with the Christian nationalist leader Lance Wallnau this summer. I just believe what the Bible says, she added. Were supposed to go onto the Earth; were supposed to dominate. In a late November sermon, Donnelly addressed congregants on the divine mandate to put Gods people in power, telling followers: Hes given you a spiritual position to reign and rule.

The agenda for Donnelly, in particular, is to roll back the LGBTQ rights movement, which she insists is a Satanic slippery slope to pedophilia. Know that sin does not have a stopping point, she told a recent religious gathering in Hollywood, warning that if the movement remains unchecked, all of a sudden its going to be OK for a 54-year-old to be married to a 4-year-old.

Donnelly, 49, positions this anti-LGBTQ sentiment as though it is defensive, with branding that includes the website: Dont Mess With Our Kids. But she also models her movement on one of the bloodiest stories of the Old Testament  which ends with the heroes going on offense against their enemies, one of whom ends up impaled on a spike.

For a preacher obsessed with power, Donnelly shuns media attention. She confided to the followers in LA that she wants her movement to appear bottom-up, insisting: We want to make it so the press cant find out who is the leader. She did not agree to be interviewed by Rolling Stone.

Donnelly preaches near Portland, Oregon, where she lives with her family. Presenting her life story to religious audiences, she describes how she was born to Jesus movement hippies, who soon divorced, and was raised in the house of her atheist, doctor stepfather in Idaho. She rediscovered God, she says, during a moment of despair in college.

Donnellys first career was a wild ride near the top of an alleged pyramid scheme. She worked with AdvoCare, a Texas-based multilevel marketing firm that ostensibly sold nutritional supplements and energy drinks. Donnelly and her husband were featured as Hall of Fame earners for the company. I never set out to be a millionaire, she said in one video, bragging of the couples seven-figure annual earnings.

Lower-level marketers, however, felt duped by the company, claiming that AdvoCare wasnt really a nutrition business, rather an expensive trap that duped newcomers into buying inventory they had little prospect of selling for a profit. In 2019, the company reached a massive settlement with the Federal Trade Commission, agreeing to pay nearly $150 million dollars to resolve charges that it operated as an illegal pyramid scheme. (Donnelly was not named or accused of wrongdoing in that FTC action.)

The collapse of AdvoCare occasioned a stark shift by Donnelly into a religious calling  pursued through a ministry she started with her husband called Tetelestai Ministries. The religious nonprofits revenue soared, according to IRS records, from $121,000 in 2018 to $1.5 million in 2021, as Donnelly became active in the far-right religious communitys fight against Covid restrictions.

In April 2023, Donnelly was commissioned as an apostle in the church of the Christian nationalist preacher Che Ahn  a leading figure in the New Apostolic Reformation. NAR is a branch of Charismatic Christianity that is obsessed with earthly power, and a supposed mandate for Christians to exert dominion over the nations as part of an End Times crusade to hasten the return of Christ. Based in Southern California, Ahn had traveled to Washington, D.C., to back Donald Trump on Jan. 6, 2021, and he decries the separation of church and state as a lie from the pit of hell.

Donnelly has since been on a meteoric rise in NAR circles, mentored by the likes of Wallnau, the Trump-allied promoter of a roadmap for Christian conquest called the Seven Mountains Mandate. Donnelly has also forged a movement-building partnership with a fiery NAR preacher named Lou Engle  who has mixed religion and politics for decades, including ties to figures like Kansas Sen. Sam Brownback and Texas Gov. Rick Perry. (Engle did not respond to a Rolling Stone interview request.)

Donnellys Her Voice Movement, seeking to mobilize Christian nationalist women, had a coming out party in July  taking over the Portland convention center for three days of worship and speeches from figures like Wallnau, Ahn, and Engle. Donnelly and Engle have continued this road show, hosting a traveling Freedom Tour.

Framing her political activism biblically, Donnelly leans on the Old Testament Book of Esther. In that bloody story, Esther, a young Jew, is made queen by a fearsome Persian king. The king is later convinced by a wicked adviser, Haman, to issue a decree calling for the extermination of the Jewish people. Upon the advice of her uncle Mordecai  who convinced Esther that God had placed her in her royal post for such a time as this  the queen dared angering the king (and perhaps being put to death by him) to seek a reprieve for the Jews. The king took her counsel, and issued a new decree  authorizing Jews to take vengeance against their tormentors, which they did with violent zeal. Haman ended up on a spike.

In the movements metaphor, Donnelly and her female followers stand as Esthers. Engle and the men who lift up their Christian nationalist wives and female relations are Mordecais. In his sermon at the Portland convention center, where he rocked back and forth as he spoke, Engle railed against the transgender demonic spirit. Insisting America faced a do or die moment, he took on the mantle of Mordecai, shouting: Tonight, I call forth Esther. For such a time as this.

Do not mistake Donnellys message of female empowerment as feminist. As Donnelly described her view, in a June conversation with Wallnau about the kind of woman Satan fears most, Christian women still need men to access their power. We need the endorsement of a male voice, Donnelly said. We need your permission to be brave. In the battle for the nation she said: I believe that the women are the arrows, and the men are the bows. The Holy Spirit is the archer.

As a preacher, Donnelly outlines a stark message of Christian dominance. She insists Christians are Gods chosen people and believes theyre commanded to take control, based on the instruction in Genesis to subdue the earth. In a recent speech, Donnelly said: I looked that [word] up in Hebrew; that word actually means to take it under bondage. Donnelly continued that the actual message from God was: I commanded you to look at the Earth, and when it acts up, bring it under the bondage of the kingdom of God. Donnelly insists that when Christians dont occupy their rightful place of power, it creates a big vacuum for unrighteousness to take over.

In her movement building, and her audacious goal to bring 1 million women to Washington next fall, Donnelly appears to be leaning on her multilevel marketing expertise. In her Hollywood speech, she told the assembled women to take charge of spreading the message within their own networks: The people that trust you, trust you, she said. We dont have time for them to gain trust of me or Lou. Donnelly is also raising cash through a fundraising website called the Esther Network, which offers recurring donation levels of up to $39.99 a month.

The first step in Donnellys hoped-for national mobilization comes this April, in gatherings at each state Capitol. Organizing materials posted on a Donnelly website insist that each gathering is meant to be peaceful prayer assembly and not a violent protest.

But the rhetoric used by both Donnelly and Engle is suggestive of something far darker. Addressing the Portland convention hall, Donnelly said: This is something that we are laying our lives down for. Speaking about the March on Washington in a filmed address to the Hollywood audience, Engle exhorted the women to, War for our children, adding: Were going to believe that God is going to loose the sound of Psalm 68. (Psalm 68 reads in part: May God arise, may his enemies be scattered; may his foes flee before him. May you blow them away like smoke  as wax melts before the fire, may the wicked perish before God.)

In her recent November sermon, Donnelly also elaborated on her hair-raising takeaway from the Esther story  and the connection between bloodshed and authority and belief. Donnelly claimed of the Jews who took vengeance on their enemies: They slaughtered so many people that everybody feared the Jews, and decided to join them  meaning they decided to worship the God of Abraham  because they came into such authority and such power.

Donnelly said she expects similar mass conversions when Christians step into their full authority: I believe were going to see  a billion soul harvest. Donnelly insisted that God wants to see the church arrive at its finest hour and step into its season of power  so that a whole lotta people say, I want to hang with you guys.

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Napoleon 'misjudged the abilities of the Duke of Wellington', who secured an historic victory against his rival at Waterloo

The current Duke of Wellington has said Napoleon seriously underestimated his ancestor.

Charles Wellesley, 9th Duke of Wellington, was commenting on the new blockbuster biopic by Sir Ridley Scott, which charts the life of the French general and emperor.

The Duke of Wellington has claimed that Napoleon misjudged the abilities of his ancestor, who secured a victory against his rival at Waterloo.

Reviewing the Hollywood film in The House, the weekly magazine for Parliament, the Duke said: Although Wellington had a high regard and respect for Napoleon, this was not reciprocated.

Napoleon seriously underestimated his opposing general and the allied army, only 36 per cent of whom were British and half of whom were German-speaking.

The crossbench peer added: Few battles in history have had such profound consequences.

There was total regime change in France, and ever since Britain and France have normally been on the same side.

Indeed, I often think that 1815 was the start of a long and enduring period of Anglo-French cooperation and friendship.

Scotts film depicts the downfall of Napoleon at the hands of Wellington and the allied army in that year.

The movie has been criticised for multiple historical inaccuracies, which include Napoleon, played by Joaquin Phoenix, firing on the Pyramids of Giza, joining a cavalry charge during his final battle, and meeting his nemesis, the Duke of Wellington.

Not that stiff or pompous

The current Duke of Wellington has forgiven these inaccuracies in his review, but believes the depiction of his ancestor by British star Rupert Everett could have been more flattering.

He wrote: I dont believe that Wellington was quite as stiff or pompous as that.

While the Duke has welcomed the depiction of Britains Waterloo hero, the portrayal of Napoleon as an insecure dictator has caused controversy in France.

Director Scott said that the emperor was akin to Alexander the Great, Adolf Hitler, Stalin and had a lot of bad s--- under his belt.

This characterisation was challenged by Pierre Branda, academic director of the Fondation Napoleon, who said that portraying Napoleon as a murderous weakling did not account for his achievements.

He said: It jars quite a lot. While Hitler and Stalin built nothing and only wrought destruction, Napoleon built things that are still in place today.

Scott has defended his latest release against accusations of inaccuracies, including depicting the pivotal 1805 battle of Austerlitz as a small-scale ambush on a frozen lake, telling historians to get a life.

Responding to reports that the film had received a cold reception in France, he said the French dont even like themselves.

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.
(CNN)  Israel believes that it has killed two Palestinian civilians for every Hamas militant in its intense campaign to eliminate the armed group from the Gaza Strip, a ratio an IDF spokesperson described to CNN Monday as tremendously positive.

The AFP news agency first reported the Israeli assessment on Monday, citing a briefing for foreign media by senior Israeli military officials. Asked about reports that about 5,000 Hamas militants had been killed since October 7, one of the officials replied, according to AFP: The numbers are more or less right.

Asked by CNNs Erin Burnett about the details that emerged in the briefing, IDF spokesperson Jonathan Conricus said: I can confirm the report. Conricus cited the challenges of fighting in a densely populated area.

According to figures compiled by the Hamas-controlled health ministry in Gaza, almost 16,000 people have died since October 7. The ministrys figures dont distinguish between combatants and civilians. Conricus statement implied that more than 10,000 civilians have died in the conflict.

Conricus added: I can say that if that is true  and I think that our numbers will be corroborated  if you compare that ratio to any other conflict in urban terrain between a military and a terrorist organization using civilians as their human shields, and embedded in the civilian population, you will find that that ratio is tremendous, tremendously positive, and perhaps unique in the world.

Contacted later by CNN, Conricus sought to clarify his remarks, saying that the IDF could not confirm the numbers cited by AFP and had only meant to say that he had seen the news agencys report.

I confirmed that I saw the report. I didnt confirm the numbers yet, Conricus told CNN on Tuesday.

According to the AFP report, an unidentified Israeli official said that it was hoped the ratio will be much lower in the next phase of the war. Im not saying its not bad that we have a ratio of two to one, the official was quoted as saying.

The IDF estimates that Hamas was comprised of around 30,000 fighters before October 7, when it launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, killing more than 1,200 people and taking more than 240 hostage. In response, Israel has vowed to eliminate the group once and for all.

Barak Ravid, a CNN political and foreign policy analyst, said Conricus comments about the positive ratio of civilian-to-militant casualties may not have been a good choice of words.

I dont think the fact that 10,000 civilians (were killed) is positive in any way, Ravid told CNNs Kaitlan Collins, adding that, Israel was facing a dilemma in the last 24 hours with regards to increasing pressure from the United States and its call for more humanitarian aid to enter Gaza.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told journalists during a press conference on Saturday that the military has killed thousands of terrorists. The Israeli military has not officially published any estimates of those killed.

AFP reported that the Israeli military official, when asked to confirm reports that around 5,000 Hamas militants had been killed, replied: The numbers are more or less right.

Conricus said the IDF aims ultimately to obtain accurate numbers of civilians and combatants killed, and said he thought the figures would be known before the end of the war.

He clarified the definition of Hamas militants, saying that when the Israeli military reported how many fighters it had killed, it was referring to combatants. Our definition is combatants, people who are fighting, he said. In Gaza, thousands of residents are employed in Hamas-run administrative agencies but carry out civilian duties.

More people have died in the current war than in any of Israels past conflicts with either Hamas or other Islamic militants in the Gaza Strip.

During the 50 days of hostilities in Gaza in 2014, 2,251 Palestinians were killed, of whom 1,462 were believed to be civilians, according to the United Nations. That equates to a ratio of 1.8 civilians for every non-civilian.

A top US State Department official told Congress last month that while it was difficult to assess casualty figures while conflict was ongoing, she believed that the true death toll could be even higher than what is being publicly discussed.

It is very difficult for any of us to assess what the rate of casualties are, said Barbara Leaf, the US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs. We think theyre very high, frankly. And it could be that theyre even higher than are being cited. Well know only after the guns fall silent.

The US is piling pressure on Israel to limit civilian casualties as outrage about the death toll grows globally and at home in the US.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Saturday emphasized that the protection of civilians in Gaza is crucial to Israels long-term success against Hamas.

In this kind of a fight, the center of gravity is the civilian population, he said. And if you drive them into the arms of the enemy, you replace a tactical victory with a strategic defeat.

Austins comments came the day after Israel resumed its combat operations against Hamas in Gaza.

Austin added that he has personally pushed Israeli leaders to avoid civilian casualties and shun irresponsible rhetoric while expanding access to humanitarian aid.
NASA on Wednesday celebrated 25 years of the International Space Stations (ISS) operations.

The first two modules of the ISS, named Zayra and Unity, were joined together 25 years ago on Dec. 6, 1998. NASA Associate Administrator Bob Cabana and ISS Program Manager Joel Montalbano spoke to the seven members of the Expedition 70 crew aboard the station Wednesday to mark the occasion.

I cannot believe it was 25 years ago today that we grappled Zarya and joined it with the Unity node. Absolutely amazing, Cabana said in the call with ISS crew members.

The space station itself commemorated the occasion on its account on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

The station celebrates 25 years of operations today as the Exp 70 crew conducted aging, mental health, and cognition research while continuing ongoing cargo operations, the station said in a Wednesday post.

Back in September, an international crew of astronauts known as Crew-6 returned home after a mission to the ISS. The crew featured two NASA astronauts, Stephen Bowen and Woody Hoburg, United Arab Emirates astronaut Sultan Alneyadi and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev.

After spending six months aboard the International Space Station, logging nearly 79 million miles during their mission, and completing hundreds of scientific experiments for the benefit of all humanity, NASAs SpaceX Crew-6 has returned home to planet Earth, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said in a release.

The three-nation crew demonstrated humanitys shared ambition to reach new cosmic shores. The contributions of Crew-6 will help prepare NASA to return to the Moon under Artemis, continue onward to Mars, and improve life here on Earth, Nelson continued.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.


An artists concept of a cryobot entering Europas subsurface ocean.

Astrobiologists suspect there could be alien life just out of reach in our solar system, in oceans hidden beneath icy crusts on moons circling Jupiter and Saturn. But unlike the surface of Mars, which can be explored by rovers and landers, these mysterious oceans are currently inaccessible to us. In an effort to change that, researchers convened this year to design a novel mission that could finally reveal whats in those distant water worlds.



The proposed probe, called a cryobot, is a cylindrical robot that would be capable of heating up ice to drill through it, allowing the bot to access the liquid water ocean beneath. The workshop, held in February at the California Institute of Technology, brought together over 40 researchers to mature the technological concept. The participants explored the power, thermal, mobility, and communication systems necessary for such a mission, as NASA described in a recent article.

Read more

A thermal management system would keep internal temperatures at a safe level and properly distribute the heat throughout the system. A water jetting and cutting system would be included in the device to allow the cryobot to clear rocks, particulate matter, and salt encased in the ice.

The workshop participants concluded that a demonstration of hazard mitigation systems is a high priority for future work on the concept.

They also determined that any cryobot deployed on a moon would need a communication link that allows it to transmit information to a surface lander, which in turn would relay that data to Earth. While fiber optic cables are an industry standard, NASA explained, movements in the ice shelf could cut off the connection between the lander and the probe, which could be kilometers beneath the ice. Wireless communication methods are on the table, including radio, acoustic, and magnetic transceivers.

Jupiters moon Europa and Saturns moon Enceladus are of particular interest for astrobiologists. NASA and ESA have committed missions to exploring Europa and developed a mission concept for visiting Enceladus. NASAs Europa Clipper is expected to launch in October 2024, and its observations will inform the ideal design for a cryobot probe, which will need to breach the moons frozen surface and then relay data from the ocean beneath. The Enceladus Orbilander would orbit and then land on the Saturnian moon, looking for signs that the subsurface ocean could contain life. Earlier this year, a team of scientists found evidence that phosphorus, a key ingredient for life as we know it, was being belched up by Enceladus, whose water vapor plumes can be over 6,000 miles long.

The recent workshop participants concluded that the mission concept remains feasible, scientifically compelling, and the most plausible near-term way to directly search for life in situ on an ocean world, according to a NASA.

It will be years before we see a probe touch down on one of these icy moons, but were getting much closer to actually exploring an alien ocean.

More: Evidence of Life Could Exist Just Beneath Europas Icy Surface



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COMMENTARY | Hypocrisy spreads like norovirus in Florida's deranged McCarthyite era, so it should come as no great shock that two of the state's more ghoulish figures are having their turn in the barrel. A desired three-way tryst that ended with accusations of sexual assault and a criminal investigation has prompted a dramatic fall from grace for Christian and Bridget Ziegler  respectively, the chair of the Republican Party of Florida and the co-founder of Moms for Liberty.

The Zieglers are a kind of model power couple for this Florida moment: a loutish party official and a delusional education activist both deeply committed to the vilification of gay and transgender people. And, having ingratiated themselves into the state's DeSantian power structure, the two were really having a moment. Christian, a former member of the Sarasota County Commission, became chair of the Florida GOP earlier this year, a job he'd long coveted. As a top party operative, Christian Ziegler essentially embodies the lizard-brained, alternate-reality id of the modern Republican Party: He is obnoxious, mean and conspiracy-minded.

But their relationship is an equal partnership in awfulness. Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed Bridget, a member of the Sarasota School Board known for taking her anti-LGBTQ crusade to local classrooms, to the district board he created to punish Disney, one of his most high-profile big-government takeovers of private industry, prompted by the company's stance on LGBTQ issues. Bridget was also an architect of legislation that eventually became Florida's infamous "Don't Say Gay" bill.

The accusations against Christian, detailed in a Sarasota Police Department affidavit first obtained by the Florida Center for Government Accountability, center on a planned three-way sexual encounter, telling a starkly different story about the couple's commitment to the conservative Christian conception of morality and their devotion to the "family unit," a phrase Bridget has used repeatedly.

The allegations revolve around a planned three-way in early October that a friend of the Zieglers attempted to cancel when she found out Bridget was unable to attend. The woman told police Christian had sexually assaulted her in her apartment after she had tried to wave him away from coming over. Ziegler's attorney has said the encounter was consensual. "We are confident that once the police investigation is concluded that no charges will be filed and Mr. Ziegler will be completely exonerated."

Everyone is entitled to due process, including grotesque people like Christian Ziegler, but the Sarasota Police Department's investigation makes it clear the woman's story is not entirely fiction: During an interview with investigators, for example, Bridget, who has not been accused of wrongdoing, confirmed the three had previously had sex. The affidavit describes the troubling alleged behavior by Christian in considerable detail, but suffice it to say that somewhere along the way the Florida GOP chairman took up residence in an impressive glass house on Sarasota's algae-fouled waterfront.

As of Wednesday morning, Christian Ziegler still had his chairman job in a death grip despite the avalanche of party activists and Florida elected officials calling for his ouster: DeSantis, U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, the Cabinet and members of the Legislature.

The stain extended to Bridget, who faced calls of her own to step down from her position on the Sarasota School Board, where she was no doubt a distraction long before these accusations had surfaced, and even saw her beloved Moms for Liberty distance itself from her. The organization  a clearinghouse for far-right conspiracy theories  engaged in remarkable gaslighting in a statement, claiming Bridget had long ago "resigned from her role as co-founder" of Moms for Liberty.

How, exactly, does one resign as a co-founder? Devote oneself to the belief they didn't co-found the organization, after all? Hop in a DeLorean? Yes, these are the bright activists we should all entrust with educating our kids.

The temptation here is to marvel and maybe even guffaw at the soap-operatic nature of it all  that's whacky Florida for ya!  but this latest controversy reveals a more sobering truth. Depravity, venality, hypocrisy: This is Florida's new and depressing norm, brought to you by politicians who bathe in self-righteousness.

The governor rewards toadies with financial bliss, depleting the public treasury to reward personal loyalty. Look no further than Richard Corcoran, once a small-government crusader who now makes more money than god running a tiny liberal arts college targeted for a conservative makeover. Or the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, the agency DeSantis created to punish Disney, where lucrative contracts are making their way to favored political insiders.

Land of the Free, except: Books get banned, the governor's administration drafts laws to weaken the First Amendment, communities are robbed of their power of self-governance. We support law and order except in the nation's Capitol. We're good Christians unless we need to use migrants as political props, deny people healthcare, or slam an opponent as a "groomer." Somehow this state full of alpha-male leaders is also one full of persecuted, victimized ones.

"We have a country to save," Christian Ziegler told his Republican colleagues over the weekend, after news about the sexual assault allegations had broken, while apparently refusing to resign his post.

The nerve of this man, one-half of one of Florida's most virulently anti-LGBTQ couples. Instead of saving the country, Christian, consider salvation a bit closer to home.

Nate Monroe is a metro columnist whose work regularly appears every Thursday and Sunday. Follow him on Twitter @NateMonroeTU.

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Nate Monroe: Rot at the top of Florida GOP reveals a state mired in hypocrisy
Credit -

It was easy to miss, amid the horrors, what answered them. In the blood-soaked weeks that started on Oct. 7, the most consequential acts in Israel and in Gaza may also have been the least noticed, carried out not by those who claimed leadership but by those whom leaders had failed. The people who pulled others out of rubble, or out of hiding, who sheltered strangers, who bent to heal wounds seen and unseen, they all answered unspeakable violence with a shared humanity. But their selflessness did more than save lives. It illuminated the connection at the heart of a contest that has preoccupied the world for most of a century, the fellow feeling that defines a community and, more broadly, a nation. Amid the negation of war, and in the absence of a state, two nations were affirmed.

In Israel, the absence was temporary but catastrophic. As Hamas terrorists marauded across the countrys south, killing 1,200 people in a day and retreating back to Gaza with hundreds of hostages, the Israeli government was simply not in evidence. Into the void surged the people of Israel. Within hours, a matrix of volunteers mobilized to rescue those stranded in safe rooms, sustain those evacuated from border areas, and address the traumas of survivors.

The effort was instant, intuitive, unrequested. Its leaders were citizens who had spent the prior 10 months organizing weekly protests against an extremist government angling to erase the only check on its power. Pivoting from protest to service, the loose network of citizens dispatched trauma kits and therapists. When it emerged that no one, least of all the authorities, knew who was dead, who was alive, and who had been abducted, computer experts by the hundreds dove into a digital netherworld, sleuthing for clues.

And just as Hamas made no distinction among the people it slaughtered and stoleJews, Bedouins, the Palestinian citizens once known as Israeli Arabs, Thai guest workers hired to toil in fieldsall of Israeli society reached out. A citizenry riven by inequity and political crisis assembled in the collective spirit that defined Israel at its founding. We see this as a restatement of the country, said Gigi Levy-Weiss, a tech entrepreneur who helped organize the response at the Tel Aviv convention center, where as many as 15,000 people showed up with strollers, paper towelseverything, really. There is a new core.

Rockets from Gaza approach Israels Iron Dome interceptors on Oct. 10. Eyad BabaAFP/Getty Images

In the Gaza Strip, the government stayed gone. Palestinians have no state, but in the Strip the Islamic Resistance Movement, better known as Hamas, has held power for the past 16 years. After the Israeli military began its retaliatory strikes, however, the groups political apparatus proved as elusive as its armed wing.

There is no police station, there are no municipalities ... Theres almost nothing, says Amir Hasanain, a 21-year-old student in Rafah who, like uncounted others, responded by assuming the duties of wartime public servant. Organizing themselves into what he describes as a simulation of government, the volunteers delivered basic goods to sustain a civilian population suffering bombardment and homelessness. In the first eight weeks of the assault, nearly 16,000 of Gazas 2.3 million residents were killed, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Some 1.9 million were forced to flee their homes, the United Nations reported.

The uprooting evoked what Palestinians call the Nakba, or catastrophe, that transformed a narrow enclave beside the Mediterranean into one of the worlds most densely populated places, its numbers swollen by refugees from villages lost to Jewish forces in the 1948 war that created Israel. Defending itself in the decades that followed, Israel would occupy and then settle both Gaza and the West Bank (leaving Gaza in 2005). In those same decades, the Palestinian identity took root. Claimed by some 14 million people globally, it is grounded not only in geography and shared experience but also in the aspiration to what the U.N. Charter declares the right of any people: a state of their own.

What is so inspiring is the communalism, says Ghassan Abu-Sittah, a British Palestinian physician who hastens from his London practice to Gaza whenever there is a war. If the destruction and death of this one is unprecedented, he says, so is the selflessness. Everything is being shared, he says, and thats what is keeping society from collapsing. Nobody turns anyone away.

As entire neighborhoods were flattened by bombs, whole new cities sprang up beneath tarps and blankets. Rida Thabet was the principal at a 500-student vocational college, the Khan Younis Training Centre, built and run by the United Nations Relief Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA). But on Oct. 13, the day the Israeli military ordered the Strips northern half emptied, Thabet effectively became a mayor, 40,000 people having crammed into the school grounds. Its like a city, she says.

Thirty babies had been born there by late November. Women who gave birth during daylight hours could find help at the shelters three medical posts. At night, Thabet recruits volunteer medics from the tents. Mohammed Bardaweel spent most of his career in emergency rooms but now does what he can with a kit from the World Health Organization. The hardest cases arrive from the north. One woman came by foot a day after a cesarean section. Another arrived with a 6-year-old with sepsis from a wound caused by phosphorus munitions, he says. I hope that the nations all around the world who believe in peace and human rights will try to end this war, the physician says. He pauses before adding, I know that nations are different than governments. By the evidence at hand in both Israel and Gaza, its a distinction that might inspire hope. With reporting by -Leslie Dickstein/New York 

Trauma Teams

Merav Roth

It turns out that just as in a murder investigation, the first 48 hours are also crucial in the treatment of emotional trauma. Merav Roth pointed this out in a video call to fellow mental-health professionals the day after the Hamas massacre. The psyche asks, Am I supposed to collapse? she recalls. Is there anything to hold onto? And if you come immediately with an answer, saying, Hold my hand, you can bring the life instinct into service, and begin to put yourself together again.

Therapists now double as first responders in Israel. Ofrit Shapira-Berman runs a WhatsApp group that within three minutes, and sometimes 50 seconds, matches a psychoanalyst with a trauma survivor, drawing from a list of almost 500 volunteers. Many provide a lifetime of analysis at no charge. When someone loses someone that he loves, he sort of moves to another continent; there is a continent of bereaved people, Shapira-Berman says. This is not a continent. Its a planet.

At a lushly bucolic event center north of Tel Aviv, survivors of the Nova music festival, where more than 350 were killed, gather each afternoon and evening for what looks like a lawn party. Theres so much science on how nature heals, says Lia Naor, who created the retreat. Survivors steer their therapy by answering the question, What do you feel like doing? Theres music, beanbag chairs to hang out in, a sound bath. There are therapists too. But theyre not on you, says Liam Kedem, 24, who ran six miles from Hamas gunmen and comes to the retreat every day. What makes me really feel like recovering is just sitting with the friends that Ive been in the situation with. In the city, people look at me with these sad eyes.

The approach, which seems perfectly suited to people who would attend a rave, can be adapted to meet anyone where they live. Were 9 million people in trauma. Its not one or two, Naor says. So the only way to treat is within community.

The Hamas massacre also activated the 2,000-year communal history of persecution every Jew carries. We are so trained in trauma, says Roth, a psychoanalyst and professor at the University of Haifa. I was raised into the Holocaust. But if Holocaust survivors were shunned in Israel in the 1950s as damaged or weak, subsequent generations have learned to appreciate the experience of victims and make common cause with their grief.

At the Dead Sea hotel where survivors of the Beeri kibbutz are lodged, Roth met a woman of 85, who was black with her death wish. She said, I dont want to live in such a world. And I said, Please look around you for a second. Is this the world you want to leave? The sprawling resort was jammed with all manner of goods donated from around the country. Her eyes filled with tears, but loving tears. And she said, Its so amazing. From the first moment, people came, and came with everything that we need.

Solidarity, Roth says, is a cure.

Night Medic

Lana Okal

At the shelters where most of Gazas residents now reside, there are shortages of almost everything except people. But that can be a blessing, as they bring expertise. When Lana Okal arrived at the Khan Younis Training Centre camp she announced that she was a doctor. The 25-year-old had graduated in January from Cairo Universitys Kasr Al-Ainy School of Medicine, an experience she savored after life in Gaza. Her hope was to study in Britain after completing a year interning at Gaza Citys Al-Shifa medical center. She had two months left when the war began. We had yet to cover anesthesiology and emergency medicine, Okal says.

She was put to work. By day, she has helped record the health status of the displaced people in the shelter. At night, she is on the list of medics who have volunteered to be roused in emergencies. Trained in primary care, Okal felt useful treating most of the patients brought to her. But one night in late November, she found herself facing a 40-year-old woman who had been pushed in a wheelchair from Gaza City with her children. Her leg had been amputated after being crushed in the bombing; her husband was dead; and the young physician felt as overwhelmed as the Gaza health care system itself. She said, Help me. I cannot. I want to try, but I cannot. The amputation was very polluted, Okal says, and she had neither the equipment nor the expertise to treat it. Cell networks were down, so no ambulance could be summoned. The situation here, Okal says, is very difficult.

Peacekeeper

Amir Badran

Before there was Tel Aviv, there was Jaffa, an ancient city with the cosmopolitan feel of a Mediterranean port and a population to match: a third of the city are Palestinian citizens of Israel. That might explain Amir Badrans presence on the Tel AvivJaffa city council. But only faith in human nature could account for his decision this fall to run for mayor just two years after Israels mixed cities erupted in street fights.

Watching the news on Oct. 7, Badran knew his campaign was in trouble. But he held out hope for Jaffa. With a few phone calls, the attorney founded the Guard for Jewish-Arab Partnership, a joint effort to keep the peace. It advertises and staffs a hotline, sends volunteers to escort people who feel unsafe, and partners with Standing Together, a nationwide solidarity effort. Fear is all around. In the month after the massacre, as many Israelis applied for gun permits (236,000) as had done so in the previous 20 years. Jaffa Arabs like Badran who were appalled by the Hamas massacre were also shaken by Israels retaliation. Some 200,000 residents of Gaza trace their families to Jaffa, the home they fled or were expelled from in 1948.

We will work together, Arab and Jewish residents, to keep each others backs, Badran says, to be safe in our homes, to secure our mosques, synagogues and churches, and to show the world that we can do it differently, while other people speak in the language of war, especially the mixed cities. Regaining that equilibrium, he says, is the only way forward for a country where 20% descend from Palestinians who stayed within Israels borders in 1948. The reality is that we are living together, and we will have to still live together.

Giving Shelter

Rida Thabet

For most people in Gaza, the war is a saga of exodus into smaller and smaller spaces. More than 1.6 million of its 2.3 million residents have been forced from their homes, first into the southern half of the Strip, then into the cramped lots where 1.4 million have sought refuge under the blue flag of the U.N. Some 40,000 are camped in the vocational college run by Rida Thabet.

Their hardship is more than a humanitarian challenge for Thabet; it is a personal one. Im displaced myself, she says. She hails from Gaza City, from which people still arrive, sometimes wounded, always stressed. They see us as management, Thabet says. They come with anger, and they throw that anger on your face. The face is sympathetic. Thabet comforts not only her 15-year-old daughter, traumatized by the cascades of bombing, but also her guests. On Nov. 24 the oldest was the 95-year-old woman who asked, as she does daily, Where am I? Who are you? The youngest was just hours old.

You want to help but you feel helpless, says Thabet. Her answer is action: finding mattresses for those at risk of bedsores, tarpaulins for people sleeping in the open, common ground for feuding spouses, and support groups for children who have seen too much. As an employee of UNRWA, which in peacetime provides schools, medical services, and aid to the 74% of Gazans who are registered refugees, Thabet is both an anchor of Gazas middle class, and a conduit for the trickle of assistance reaching them. More than 100 of her colleagues have been killed, including a friend who died giving training on how to keep safe. We have some unique stories, Thabet says. Some of them are very sad ones. And some can give hope.

Brothers and Sisters for Israel

Ron Scherf

Few societies are built around the military the way Israel is. So it made sense that the largest protests against Benjamin Netanyahus efforts to sideline the judiciary earlier this year were led by a group called Brothers and Sisters in Arms. Started by seven military reservists on WhatsApp, it grew to 50,000 members, many of whom vowed not to serve in protest of the Prime Ministers power grab.

When Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, the group nonetheless urged its members to report for duty without hesitation. But the real surprise was that it stepped in for a government that proved unable to function. Brothers and Sisters for Israel, as it was renamed that same day, posted an emergency button on leading news sites: If you have an emergency, click here. It sent 400 teams to the communities around Gaza to coax terrified residents out of safe rooms, and 5,000 volunteers to work the depopulated farms. Hospitals got help treating the wounded, evacuees got hot meals, and donations got sorted in an underground parking garage staffed each day by 10,000 to 15,000 volunteers. The Facebook post Can we just pay taxes directly to Brothers and Sisters in Arms? became a meme. You see the power of unity, says Ron Scherf, a co-founder. Everybodys now focusing on helping each other.

Three weeks after the massacre, the situation room at the Tel Aviv convention center was still humming. A computer whiteboard listed 60 teams, ranging from intelligence to kindergartens, other protest groups having pivoted just as nimbly to whatever needed doing. (A lawyer previously tasked with springing arrested protesters had organized the retrieval of pets from evacuated towns.)

Information scholar Karine Nahon led the effort to sort the dead from the abducted, a daunting task that began with 14,500 names. Some 500 volunteers crawled through social media feeds and 150 Hamas Telegram channels, deploying facial-recognition software and novel algorithms. Were a small country, Nahon says. We gave a call, and everybody showed up.

Eyal Shai, an air force reservist with experience running giant call centers, organized the teams. Theyre talking in systems, he says. Im talking people and jobs. Every hour, a table of volunteers would break to talk with a psychologist. Few knew each other by name, but many recognized each other from the protests that, at the time, had felt like the most important task at hand. When you look at the motive for our behavior over the last year, it all came from being patriotic, says Oren Shvill, another of the founders. True love of country.

Civil Defender

Amir Hasanain

The future of any society relies on the likes of Amir Hasanain. The resume of the 21-year-old student is a ladder of civil-society internships and academic scholarships capped by a semester at Missouri State University, sponsored by the U.S. State Department. Hasanain was back in Gaza doing his final undergrad year when Israeli bombs flattened Al-Azhar University. I have witnessed a lot of things, Hasanain says. Many are horrible, like the scream of my little brothers and sisters every time there is an airstrike. In the first days of the bombardment, the entire family gathered in one room so we all die at once, and none has to regret his survival. But he has also witnessed the owners of private wells opening them to all. Those with solar panels charge phones for free. Police stations are not operating, but elderly people in the neighborhood volunteer to solve the quarrels that arise between neighbors, he says. The government is now dysfunctional, he notes, but the people have stepped up.

Hasanain himself rises at 6 a.m. at his home in Rafah, near the Egyptian border, and walks first to the market and back, then two kilometers to wait four hours for water. He rides a donkey cart to where he volunteers delivering food or other aid via the civil-society organizations that are like the passersby who, in the absence of civil-defense workers, scramble into the rubble in search of survivors. Walking two kilometers home, Hasanain eats his one meal of the day. After two months of war, though, the real concern is mental stamina, he says. The days are just overlapping with more fear, disappointment, and frustration.

Write to Yasmeen Serhan at yasmeen.serhan@time.com.
MADISON  Wisconsin is one of six "battleground" states the national Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee will pour money into ahead of the 2024 election, starting with $24,000 to be split between campaigns in the state Senate and Assembly.

Under Wisconsin's campaign finance laws, political action committees may contribute up to $12,000 to a state political party committee in a calendar year.

The investment comes as the state Supreme Court weighs a case that could make it easier to gain a Democratic majority for the first time in over a decade. The state's high court is currently considering a challenge to the state's electoral maps that could give way to new boundaries more favorable to Democratic candidates.

More: Democrats choose Dianne Hesselbein as their new Senate minority leader

The DLCC is the Democratic Party's committee dedicated to winning seats in state legislatures. It announced plans on Wednesday to funnel nearly $300,000 into state-level elections in Michigan, Arizona, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and North Carolina.

The organization is declaring 2024 "the year of the states."

"As we saw in Virginia and other legislative elections in 2023, early investments are often the deciding factor in who wins and loses state races," DLCC interim President Heather Williams said. "The DLCC is proud to be the first organization on the ground in Wisconsin, investing early in the most important level of the ballot. These early investments are multipliers, building the infrastructure and operations that will win these races in November."

Williams said Wednesday's announcement is the first of "many more to come."

Democrats currently hold 35 of 99 seats in the Assembly and 11 of 33 seats in the Senate.

Attorneys for the voters who filed the state Supreme Court lawsuit are asking justices to declare the state's legislative districts unconstitutional and order new maps drawn based on "traditional redistricting criteria" in addition to what's required under state law by mid-March 2024. The lawsuit was filed in August, immediately after liberal Justice Janet Protasiewicz was sworn in, flipping the court's ideological majority for the first time in years.

Such a ruling would put every member of the Legislature up for reelection next year.

Jessie Opoien can be reached at jessie.opoien@jrn.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee to spend heavily in Wisconsin
ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. (WNCN)  Three former employees of the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) were remembered following their tragic deaths while on the job 48 years ago.

In 1975, Charlie Eatmon, Charles Grey Lewis and Mack Batchelor Jr. were riding together in an NCDOT dump truck when they collided with a tractor-trailer in Nash County.

Families of the NCDOT workers gathered Tuesday at the I-95 northbound rest area in Nash County, 48 years after their deaths. But months before the ceremony, a family member noticed something missing from the walls.

My grandson and I were going to Gatlinburg for vacation back the first of August. And we happened to stop at the Davie County rest area. I walked in, I saw the nice big plaque, said Kathy McGee Sledge, granddaughter of Mack Batchelor Jr.

However, the three mens names were nowhere to be found. NCDOT has memorials at rest areas across the state that display the names of workers who were killed while on the job.

Kathy McGee Sledge is the granddaughter of one of those workers, so she contacted the department.

Within 30 days, they had their names on the placard and in every rest area in this state, said McGee.

Charles Lewis is the son of Charles Grey Lewis. He said he was overwhelmed by Tuesdays ceremony.

I wasnt expecting quite all this. But it was really, really good, said Lewis.

Family members told CBS 17 that through this awful tragedy, they hope it serves as a reminder to slow down and use caution when seeing NCDOT trucks on the side of the roads.

They got a dangerous job. Especially nowadays, traffic is just, you know, people dont pay attention, said Lewis.

Families said the ceremony for the three men has been a long time coming.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com.
Nepali law enforcement arrested ten individuals involved in a scheme to illegally recruit Nepali citizens to fight on behalf of the Russian Federation, Reuters reported on Dec. 6.

According to Nepali authorities, the individuals in question first took large sums of money from unemployed youths in return for a tourist visa that turned out to be a funnel for recruitment into Russias military.

Nepals Ministry of Foreign Affairs earlier urged Russia not to recruit Nepali citizens into its army, demanding the return of six bodies of soldiers who died in Ukraine, and compensation for their families.

Negotiations are ongoing for the release of a Nepalese mercenary from Ukrainian captivity.

Read also: Nepal urges Russia to stop recruiting Nepalis into its army after 6 killed

Nepal has also called on its citizens to refrain from joining the armies of nations at war.

According to Raja Tuladhar, the Nepali ambassador to Moscow, 150-200 Nepalis are currently employed as mercenaries in the Russian army.

Widespread recruitment of Cuban mercenaries with their subsequent deployment to the hottest frontline spots was reported earlier by Ukrainian National Resistance Center.

Read also: Russia pays Cubans $2,000 / month to fight against 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 Dutch government has earmarked 2.5 billion euros ($2.7 billion) in funding for Ukraine, Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot said on Dec. 5 during a visit to Kyiv, where she met with her Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba.

"Your fight is our fight. Your security is our security. Thats why the Dutch government has allocated 2.5 billion euros to support Ukraine in 2024," Bruins Slot said.

She also commented on Ukraine receiving recommendations from the European Commission to begin talks on its accession to the EU, saying that the Netherlands is "positive" on the decision and that Ukraine's "future is with us."

Ukraine received the recommendation on Nov. 9, and it must be voted on by EU member states later in December. Part of the accession process will include Ukraine's ability to successfully implement reforms required by the EU.

"I also want to stress here how impressive Ukraines efforts have been to implement the required reforms under such difficult circumstances of war," Bruins Slot said.

During her trip, the foreign minister also visited Bucha, where Russian soldiers massacred hundreds of civilians at the beginning of the full-scale invasion.

It was "a chilling example of the abhorrent crimes committed against innocent civilians," which "cannot go unpunished," she said on Twitter.

In order to help strengthen Ukraine's capacity to prosecute war crimes and other internationally recognized crimes, Bruins Slot said that the Dutch government would provide 9 million euros ($9.6 million) to train Ukrainian prosecutors and judiciary.

It will also allocate 8 million euros ($8.6 million) to the European Union Advisory Mission, which will provide funding for police and will help "restore the rule of law" in Ukrainian territories liberated from Russian occupation.

Following the electoral victory of Geert Wilders and his Party for Freedom (PVV) in the Dutch elections on Nov. 22, there has been concern that aid for Ukraine from the Netherlands may decrease.

"The PVV is now the largest party and they have never been enthusiastic about support to Ukraine. They have even been pro-Russia at times. So that has me worried," Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren said on Nov. 24.

Wilders, whose PVV party won 37 of 150 seats in the Dutch parliament, has long been vocally anti-immigration but has also made several statements in favor of Russia and against the Netherlands continuing to provide support to Ukraine.

He has close relations with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and has been accused of having ties with Russia. However, Wilders has condemned Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and referred to Russia as the aggressor.

Wilders would need to build a coalition in order to actually govern the Netherlands, and his ability to become prime minister is not guaranteed.

Polls have suggested that an overwhelming majority of Dutch citizens are in favor of continued support for Ukraine.

From F-16s to frozen assets: How Dutch far-rights win could impact Ukraine Nearly two decades after launching his far-right political party, mixing xenophobia with Euroskepticism, Geert Wilders emerged as the winner of the Dutch parliamentary elections on Nov. 22. The winds of change are here, said Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, after potentially receiving one m The Kyiv IndependentElsa Court





Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
(CNN)  Former US first lady Melania Trump is set to speak at a National Archives ceremony next week to swear in new US citizens, according to a news release from the agency.

Melania Trump, who herself became a US citizen in 2006, will speak at the December 15 event on Bill of Rights Day along with US Archivist Colleen Shogan as 25 people from 25 countries are sworn in to become new American citizens.

As a naturalized citizen herself, Mrs. Trump looks forward to telling her story and being part of this momentous occasion for these new American citizens, her office said in a statement.

The former US first ladys expected appearance will mark her latest public outing amid the presidential bid by her husband, former US President Donald Trump, who holds a complicated relationship with the US document archival agency.

Last week, Melania Trump made a rare public appearance as she joined current US first lady Jill Biden and former US first ladies Michelle Obama, Laura Bush, and Hillary Clinton at the memorial service for former US first lady Rosalynn Carter in Georgia.

The Slovenian-born former US first lady has largely avoided the public eye since Donald Trump exited the White House in January 2021, save for her husbands presidential announcement last year. A source close to the former US first lady has told CNN most of her focus remains on their son, Barron, who is expected to graduate high school in Florida next year.

The US National Archives landed in the spotlight last year after it asked the US Department of Justice to investigate Trumps handling of White House records. The former US president has pleaded not guilty to 37 federal charges brought by special counsel Jack Smith over his alleged mishandling of classified documents. Smith added three additional counts in a superseding indictment.

In May, on the same day Shogan began leading the US National Archives, CNN reported that the agency would hand over to Smith 16 records showing Donald Trump and his top advisers had knowledge of the correct declassification process while he was president, multiple sources told CNN at the time. And a month later, the US National Archives took the rare step of releasing a public statement rebuking claims suggesting Donald Trump was allowed to keep classified materials under the Presidential Records Act.

CNNs Kristen Holmes, Jamie Gangel, Zachary Cohen, Evan Perez, Paula Reid and Elizabeth Stuart contributed to this report.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Melania Trump to speak at National Archives event swearing in new US citizens"
A Nevada grand jury has indicted six individuals who acted as fake electors in a scheme intended to overturn Joe Bidens 2020 election win, according to the states attorney general.

The indictments make Nevada the third state  joining Michigan and Georgia  to bring charges against those who served as fake pro-Trump electors after the 2020 election.

The six Nevadans charged are fake electors: Michael McDonald, Jesse Law, Jim DeGraffenreid, Durward James Hindle III, Shawn Meehan and Eileen Rice. They face felony charges of offering a false instrument for filing and uttering a forged instrument.

None of the fake electors have responded to requests for comment from CNN.

Attorney General Aaron Fords office said in a short statement that we cannot allow attacks on democracy to go unchallenged, adding: Todays indictments are the product of a long and thorough investigation, and as we pursue this prosecution, I am confident that our judicial system will see justice done.

As part of the effort to help then-President Donald Trump be reelected, six Republicans in Nevada signed false Electoral College votes in December 2020 for Trump, who lost the state to Biden, according to special counsel Jack Smiths federal indictment, the House select committee that investigated January 6, 2021, and the Nevada attorney generals office.

Nevada is among at least five states that have launched criminal investigations into efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Two of those states  Michigan and Georgia  have already brought criminal charges against some of the people who signed onto the alternative slates of fake electors, and more charges could be brought soon.

Nevadas case ramped up after prosecutors secured the cooperation of a key witness, Kenneth Chesebro, a lawyer who helped orchestrate the fake electors plot across multiple states. In late 2020, Chesebro wrote a series of memos spelling out what the pro-Trump electors should do in their respective states.

In one memo, Chesebro acknowledged that he was promoting a controversial strategy that even the Supreme Court with its conservative supermajority would likely reject.

This story has been updated with additional details.

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(CNN)  The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said its troops were operating in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis Tuesday as top officials at the United Nations warned of an apocalyptic situation in war-torn Gaza with no place safe to go for civilians.

Every time we think things cannot get any more apocalyptic in Gaza, they do, said Martin Griffiths, the top UN emergency relief official, in a statement on Monday. People are being ordered to move again, with little to survive on, forced to make one impossible choice after another, he said.

Such blatant disregard for basic humanity must stop, he also said.

Israel has been intensifying its aerial bombardment of southern Gaza in pursuit of Palestinian militant group Hamas and said over the weekend that it would expand ground operations to the whole of the territory.

The chief of general staff of the IDF, Leutenant General Herzi Halevi, said Tuesday its forces were now encircling Khan Younis. Halevi said that the IDF was now entering the third phase of the ground operations, though he did not specify what that meant.

Meanwhile, in central Gaza, video and witness accounts indicated there had been multiple strikes in the area of Deir al-Balah, with many casualties being taken to the Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital.

Dozens of videos CNN commissioned from a freelance journalist on the ground on Tuesday show men digging through rubble in the aftermath of a strike that destroyed a large, multi-story building.

A spokesperson for Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital told CNN that more than 90 bodies had arrived at the hospital on Tuesday in addition to 130 injured people, with more casualties arriving following the bombardment on Deir al-Balah.

Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital is the only hospital in the central area and cannot accommodate such a large number of people, especially considering that massacres against our people are still ongoing, Dr. Khalil Al Daqran said.

Many are still trapped under rubble and are being rescued and brought to the hospital, Al Daqran added. We are appealing to the world to put an end to this aggression against our people and allow medical aid and supplies to enter Gaza.

In northern Gaza, the Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health said 108 people had been killed at the Kamal Adwan hospital, with dozens more injured, after heavy explosions and gunfire rocked the facility.

A journalist inside the hospital, Mahmoud Al-Sabbah, sent CNN video Tuesday of about 30 bodies covered in white sheets in a courtyard at the hospital. Several more bodies were piled on a cart because, he said, ambulances were unable to operate in the area.

Also in the north, the IDF said Tuesday its troops had completed the encirclement of the Jabalia refugee camp.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday appealed to the IDF to spare civilians more suffering. Civilians  including health workers, journalists and UN personnel - and civilian infrastructure must be protected at all times, Guterres statement said, noting that despite evacuation orders, there is nowhere safe to go in Gaza.

Overall, 15,800 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks in Gaza since October 7, according to a report published Tuesday by the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah, which cites sources from the Hamas-controlled enclave.

Senior US officials have urged Israel to make its operations more surgical and deliberate to minimize civilian casualties. Vice President Kamala Harris told reporters on Sunday she believed that they have listened.

But one senior administration official told CNN that in private not everyone agrees with that assessment. They said did not feel comfortable using the word receptive to capture Israels response so far to the Biden administrations advice on its military operations.

US officials recent conversations with their Israeli counterparts about not replicating in the southern part of the strip the devastation it caused in the north had been hard, firm and direct, they said.

Palestinian civilians have been told to flee large swaths of Gaza, with the IDF releasing QR codes that show several online maps detailing areas it deems unsafe. However it is unclear how many residents the warnings are reaching, given damage to the enclaves telecommunications services and electricity shortages.

There is no safe area

As of last week, 1.8 million people in Gaza were estimated to be internally displaced, according to the UN  roughly 80% of the population.

Dozens of Israeli armored vehicles are operating in southern Gaza, satellite images from Sunday provided by PlanetLabs to CNN showed.

The images, obtained by CNN Tuesday, show the vehicles to the west of Salah El-Din Street, Gazas main north-south route, roughly six kilometers north of central Khan Younis. Tracks on the ground visible in the images show the Israeli armored vehicles had driven to the location in a near-direct line from the Israel-Gaza border in the east.

Scores of wounded people could be seen in footage being taken from rubble, to hospitals in southern Gaza throughout Monday. One Reuters video showed a baby being rushed from a civilian car into Nasser Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis. The 2-month-old lies on a stretcher, apparently unconscious, as doctors remove his clothes and connect him to an oxygen supply.

They told us to leave Gaza, theres a war in Gaza, so we left (the north) and came here to the south just like they asked. But this is what weve found in the south, Ibrahim Esbeitan, the babys father said in the video, pointing at this child.

In Salah Al-Arja, in Rafah, residents were seen trying to rescue their loved ones from the rubble with their bare hands. We were asleep and safe, they told us it was a safe area, Rafah and all, but at twenty past ten, they struck it with barrels, destroying all the block, there were children, women, and martyrs, an unnamed local resident told Reuters.

There is no safe area, neither Rafah, nor Khan Younis, nor Gaza, nor Dier, they are all liars, they say it is a safe area, they let us seek refuge, they evacuated Khan Younis and Gaza and still they bomb.

The Secretary General of the Norwegian Refugee Council, Jan Egeland, said Tuesday his non-governmental organization was forced to halt nearly all of its aid operations in Gaza.

He issued a strong statement arguing that the pulverising of Gaza now ranks amongst the worst assaults on any civilian population in our time and age.

The head of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, Philippe Lazzarini, also warned against horrors that could follow in the wake of Israels expanding military operation, noting that an additional 60,000 people are now seeking shelter in overcrowded UN facilities.

The evacuation order pushes people to concentrate into what is less than one-third of the Gaza Strip. They need everything: food, water, shelter, and mostly safety. Roads to the south are clogged, Lazzarini said Monday, noting that access to water is limited in Gaza.

To resupply humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza, 180 humanitarian aid trucks carrying food, water, shelter materials and medical supplies were sent to the Rafah crossing on Monday at the request of the US Administration and in coordination with Egypt, according to Israels Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories. Two diesel fuel tankers were also sent from Egypt to aid agencies operating in the strip, it said.

A US State Department spokesperson said Israeli officials need to do more to increase the amount of humanitarian assistance entering Gaza. He noted that the number of aid trucks going into the Palestinian enclave was lower than it was before the Israel-Hamas truce.

We dont think Israel is doing enough, Matt Miller told reporters at a press conference on Tuesday. There is not enough fuel, theres not enough food, theres not enough water getting in.

Meanwhile, Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said the US military had on Tuesday airlifted another 36,000 pounds of vital supplies to the people of Gaza.

Health system struggling

What remains of the health system and infrastructure in Gaza is far from sufficient for the battered populations needs as it enters a third month of siege, experts say.

Eighteen of Gazas 36 hospitals are still functioning, but can only provide partial services, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday, adding that the 12 operational hospitals in the south are the backbone of the health system.

A WHO team visiting Nasser Hospital said the conditions there were catastrophic amid a flood of patients on Monday. The building and hospital grounds [are] grossly overcrowded with patients and displaced people seeking shelter, the statement said. The emergency ward is overflowingMany patients are being treated on the floor.

In a voice message posted on Monday, UNICEF spokesperson James Elder also described harrowing conditions in Nasser Hospital rooms after a blast less than 100 meters away.

There must be a hundred people, children now have been woken up by the bombs and explosions, Elder said as babies cries could be heard in the background.

Parents just have that look of the feeling no parent ever wants to experience, which is helplessness, he said.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

CNNs Tamar Michaelis, Lauren Kent, Lina El Wardani, Kareem Khadder, Gianluca Mezzofiore, Benjamin Brown, MJ Lee and Jennifer Hansler contributed to this report.
2014 Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai poses for a photograph following an interview with the Associated Press in Johannesburg, South Africa, Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023. Yousafzai urged the world to recognize the "gender apartheid" against women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban and called for collective and urgent action (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

JOHANNESBURG (AP)  Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai said Tuesday that the world needs to recognize and confront the gender apartheid against women and girls imposed by the Taliban since they seized power in Afghanistan more than two years ago.

She urged the international community to take collective and urgent action to end the dark days in Afghanistan. Yousafzai was awarded the peace prize in 2014 at the age of 17 for her fight for girls education in her home country, Pakistan. She is the youngest Nobel laureate.

Two years earlier, she survived an assassination attempt by the Pakistani Taliban  a separate militant group but an ally of the Afghan Taliban  when she was shot in the head on a bus after school.

The 26-year-old activist spoke to The Associated Press after delivering the annual Nelson Mandela lecture in Johannesburg on the 10th anniversary of the death of South Africa's anti-apartheid leader and Nobel laureate.

Yousafzai is also the youngest person to give the lecture, following in the footsteps of past lecturers, including former President Barack Obama, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and philanthropist and Microsoft founder Bill Gates.

She dedicated her speech to Afghan women and girls, hoping to re-focus the worlds attention on their oppression amid the wars in Gaza and Ukraine.

It took a bullet to my head for the world to stand with me," she said. "What will it take for the world to stand with girls in Afghanistan?

Since their takeover, the Taliban have banned education for girls beyond the sixth grade and imposed severe restrictions on women, barring them from work and most public spaces and seeking to implement their strict interpretation of Islamic law, or Sharia.

Afghanistan has only seen dark days after it fell to the Taliban, Yousafzai said in the AP interview. It has been two and half years and most girls have not seen school again.

Yousafzai appealed to the United Nations to recognize the current state of Afghanistan as a gender apartheid and cited recent reports of women being detained, put into prisons and beaten and even put into forced marriages.

Two and a half years is a very long time, Yousafzai said and added that it could cost a woman her future.

Yousafzai also described as heartbreaking Islamabads new policy of forceful deportations of Afghans who are in Pakistan illegally, saying that deporting them would put the lives of women and girls who are forced to go back at risk.

She also called for an immediate cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war and decried that so many children's and womens lives (have been) lost in besieged Gaza.

The war  sparked by the militant Hamas group's unprecedented Oct. 7 attack that killed about 1,200 people in Israel  has so far killed more than 15,890 people in Gaza, the majority of them women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's Health Ministry, which does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths.

Yousafzai said the world must hold accountable those on both sides who have violated international law and committed war crimes.

We need to make sure that we always are on the side of the innocent people, she said. And we are advocating for protecting them and we are advocating for stopping more wars and conflicts.

Yousafzai praised the awarding of this years Nobel Peace Prize to Iranian women's rights and pro-democracy activist Narges Mohammadi, who remains imprisoned in Tehrans notorious Evin Prison. Mohammadi's children are due to accept the Nobel medal and diploma on her behalf on Sunday.

When we see more women being appreciated for their tireless efforts to bring justice, to fight against oppression and to fight against gender discrimination, it gives us hope because you realize that you are not alone," Yousafzai said.

Yousafzai began her fight against the oppression of women and girls by writing and publishing blogs at the age off 11.

She had a heartfelt message for young girls today, urging them to find their voice.

Dont wait for anyone else to speak for you, she said. You have the power to stand up for yourself.

___

Imray reported from Cape Town, South Africa.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA)  Rent had been increased by hundreds of dollars for St. Pete resident Phillis Young.

I just could not absolutely afford that, so my daughter and I found another place to move to, said Young.

Luckily, Young found another apartment in St. Pete, but it wasnt available right away, so she and her daughter stayed in a hotel for a few weeks.

Skyrocketing HOA dues causing worry among St. Pete, Florida condo owners

I realize there are a lot of people who live at hotels because they cannot find an affordable place to live. So they end up going from hotel to hotel, said Young.

Young is a member of the non-profit Faith and Action for Strength Together or FAST. The group is calling on Mayor Ken Welch to create 5,000 affordable housing units for families making 80 percent of the areas median income by 2027.

FAST is really aware of the work weve done, and my message to them is help us to get to innovative solutions, said Mayor Ken Welch. The faith-based community has a lot of property, a lot of land, help us to have innovative partnerships to create new affordable housing.

Mayor Welch hosted the final City Hall On Tour series on Tuesday night at Childs Park Recreation Center on 13th Ave. S. The mayor and other members of his leadership team hosted open house-style tour stops at different city recreation facilities to listen to and learn from residents about their needs.

St. Petersburg is among the top three Florida cities with the fastest declines in population, according to data from the money management site Finance Buzz. Residents have repeatedly cited the cost of housing as their top concern.

Shoppers thwart attack on 65-year-old woman outside Hillsborough Publix store

The mayor said the Fairfield Apartments, just north of Gibbs High School, have been converted from commercial property to affordable housing under a new state law creating 260 affordable units.

Another 1,200 affordable and workplace units have been proposed under the Tampa Bay Rays stadium deal.

I understand they want to keep the Rays here. I understand. I support the Rays. However, living here is really a whole other question, said Young. Its just very difficult right now.

Mayor Welch says theyre not mutually exclusive.

In fact, it really helps us get us to where we need to be on affordable housing, said Welch.

The mayor said the city is being innovative and using partnerships to deal with this crisis.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
A small section of land near Michigan Avenue and 13 Mile Road bought by Ford Motor Company has the ground worked on during Wednesday, July 12, 2023 for the eventual location of footers to be used in the construction of the Ford EV plant in Marshall.

The $1.75 billion in planned subsidies for Ford Motor Company's electric vehicle battery plant in Marshall has been dubbed the "Worst Economic Development Deal of the Year" for 2023 by the Center for Economic Accountability.

The award recognizes a government subsidy of a private company in the name of job creation and economic growth that goes further than any other that year to "massive wastefulness and ineffectiveness," the nonprofit said in its announcement.

Michigans subsidy of the the Ford plant won the award, according to Center for Economic Accountability, due to its $700,000 per-job price tag, use of unrealistic job multipliers and an uncertain future for labor negotiations, consumer preferences, federal policy and technological advancements.

Ford and local economic development officials, meanwhile, say such an assessment is premature.

Michigans elected officials used numbers pulled out of thin air to commit taxpayers to a 15-year payment plan for a project that held up for just nine months before economic headwinds, regulatory uncertainty and industry trends intervened with a dose of reality, CEA president John Mozena said in a statement.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer speaks about the BlueOval Battery Park Michigan to be built in Marshall during a press announcement at Ford Ion Park in Romulus on Monday, February 13, 2023.

Ford in February announced its plans to invest $3.5 billion to make the EV battery plant  known as BlueOval Battery Park Michigan  a reality in Marshall, an investment that it said would create 2,500 jobs when production of lithium iron phosphate batteries begins at the plant in 2026.

The automaker has since reduced its commitment to the Marshall-area EV battery facility by 800 jobs and more than $1 billion, moves that company officials said will reduce the plant's production capacity by roughly 40%. State officials have indicated incentives for the project will likewise we revised in accordance with the new investment parameters.

"The government incentives have not been resized with the smaller scale of the plant and employment and so, absent that, it seems like any kind of assessment would be premature," Ford spokesperson T.R. Reid explained Tuesday. "The plant is going to be smaller, the number of employees will be fewer and we fully expect that the scale of participation by the state and others would likewise be smaller. But what form that takes hasnt been determined, so I dont know how you assess whether a project is good or bad when the terms arent fully defined.

"With the reassessment of the economics a few weeks ago complete, for us its full speed ahead," Reid continued. "Were anxious to not just be a corporate resident of Marshall, but a real, true member of the community and contribute to an even better Marshall."

Jim Durian, CEO of the Marshall Area Economic Development Alliance, reiterated that BlueOval Battery Park will have a positive impact on the Marshall community for years to come.

It will mean 1,700 local jobs and opportunities for young people so they arent forced to move away to find good-paying jobs," Durian said in a statement. "This game-changing project will also raise property values, pump money into our local economy and drive traffic to small businesses across the region. In fact, the impact is already being felt today as hundreds of workers are on the site and more will be added in the coming year.

The $1.75 billion in subsidies announced earlier this year included $630 million in road, infrastructure and site development incentives, $772 million in tax credits over a 15-year period through the Michigan Strategic Fund, a $120 million grant through the Michigan Strategic Site Readiness Program, a $210 million grant through the Michigan Critical Industry Program and $36 million through the Jobs for Michigan Investment Fund Loan Program.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, left, and Ford Motor Co. CEO Jim Farley, right, take questions during a media scrum following the announcement of the BlueOval Battery Park Michigan to be built in Marshall during a news media announcement at Ford Ion Park in Romulus on Monday, Feb. 13, 2023.

In September, the Detroit Free Press reported that political groups tied to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer spent an estimated $100,000 to run a public relations campaign against local Marshall-area residents who vocally opposed the deal.

At the end of the day, the reported use of political consultants to run a smear campaign against skeptical local residents that really set Michigans subsidies for Fords Marshall battery plant apart from all the other terrible corporate welfare deals across the country, Mozena said.

Founded in 2018, the Center for Economic Accountability is an independent and nonpartisan 501(c)(3) that works for transparency, accountability and market-based reforms of state and local economic development programs across the country, according to its website.

Mozena formerly served as the vice president for marketing and communications at the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, a nonprofit research and educational institute that "advances the principles of free markets and limited government."

Contact reporter Greyson Steele at gsteele@battlecreekenquirer.com

This article originally appeared on Battle Creek Enquirer: Nonprofit names Ford's EV battery plant in Marshall 'worst economic development deal'
The famed TV writer and producer Norman Lear, known for bringing the world shows like All in the Family and Sanford and Son, died this week, according to a statement posted by his family to his official Instagram. He was 101.

The Connecticut natives death was confirmed in the New York Times by Lara Bergthold, a spokeswoman for the family. He died at his home in Los Angeles, California.

Lear died surrounded by his family as we told stories and sang songs until the very end, according to the statement. Norman lived a life in awe of the world around him. He marveled at his cup of coffee every morning, the shape of the tree outside his window, and the sounds of beautiful music. But it was people  those he just met and those he knew for decades  who kept his mind and heart forever young.

Lear entered the zeitgeist in the 70s, with the production of television sitcoms such as All in the Family, Maude, Sanford and Son, One Day at a Time, The Jeffersons and Good Times. Some of his more recent contributions to TV have included the remake of One Day at a Time starring Rita Moreno and Justina Machado, and the revival of Good Times on Netflix.

Before his TV boom, Lear had been a comedy writer and Oscar nominee for his screenplay, Divorce American Style. He went on to come up with the idea  based on the British sitcom Till Death Us Do Part  about a conservative working-class man and his raucous family in Queens, New York. That idea later became All in the Family.

The sitcom sent shockwaves through the television landscape when it premiered on CBS on 12 January 1971, with Lears signature creation, Archie Bunker, becoming one of the most enduring characters in TV history. A gruff, misanthropic bigot with a list of grievances against many minority groups, Archie, memorably portrayed by Carroll OConnor, was nonetheless strangely likable and endearing. His bigotry was played for laughs, and also for the tension with his liberal son-in-law Mike, which provided a forum for a number of social topics on screen.

All in the Family dominated ratings throughout its run, ending in 1979. The show established a new template for television comedy, mixing political and social messages as well as some drama with laughter.

Though Bunker was identified as a white Protestant, Lear based the character in part on his Jewish father, Hyman Herman Lear, a traveling salesman who was arrested for selling junk bonds when Lear was nine. The character of Edith Bunker, Archies devoted wife played by Jean Stapleton, was based on his mother, Jeannette.

The couple raised Norman and their younger daughter, Claire, mostly in Hartford, Connecticut, where Lear graduated from Weaver high school in 1940. He matriculated to Emerson College in Boston but dropped out during his sophomore year to join the army air forces. Stationed in the Mediterranean theater, Lear rose to the rank of technical sergeant and flew 57 missions as a radioman, mostly from a base near Foggia in Italy. He was awarded the Air Medal with four oak clusters.

After the war, with the help of an uncle who was a press agent, he got a job at the publicity firm of George and Dorothy Ross. He lasted a year before getting fired for planting too many demonstrably false stories. With his first wife, Charlotte, Lear relocated to Los Angeles in 1949, where he worked for a time as a traveling salesman with his friend Ed Simmons. The two began writing comedy routines together, eventually writing for Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin.

Lear would go on to write and produce a number of groundbreaking television series, including The Jeffersons, on an upwardly-mobile Black family; Good Times, which dealt with poverty and racial discrimination; and Maude, about an outspoken feminist, which became the first TV series to include a storyline about abortion.

Lear continued working in comedy into his 90s, with his podcast All of the Above with Norman Lear. He also was active in a number of progressive and liberal causes throughout his life, founding the liberal advocacy organization People for the American Way.

Tributes have been paid by names within the industry including Rob Reiner who wrote: I loved Norman Lear with all my heart. He was my second father. Sending my love to Lyn and the whole Lear family.

In a statement, George Clooney said: Its hard to reconcile that at 101 years old, Norman Lear is gone too soon. The entire world of reason just lost its greatest advocate and our family lost a dear friend. A giant walked in his shoes.

The Abbott Elementary creator Quinta Brunson shared: My Goat. What a life. Rest well, Norman Lear.

In addition to his wife, Lyn Davis, Lear is survived by their son, Benjamin and daughters, Brianna and Madeline Lear; a daughter from his first marriage to Charlotte Rosen, Ellen Lear; two daughters from his second marriage to Frances Loeb, Kate and Maggie Lear; and four grandchildren.
This story was updated at 4:50 p.m. Tuesday

Northbound Interstate 5 at Kuebler Boulevard has reopened Tuesday evening after a semitruck overturned earlier in the day.

The Oregon Department of Transportation said to expect delays due to rush hour traffic.

Crews work to pick up a partial load of hay from a hay trailer and move an overturned semitruck after a crash on I-5 northbound near Kuebler Boulevard in Salem on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023.

The semitruck could be seen resting on its side across some of the lanes Tuesday afternoon.

A hay trailer had lost part of its load. Traffic and police crews worked to clean up the fallen hay and move the semitruck.

Cars are backed up after a semitruck crash on I-5 northbound near Kuebler Boulevard in Salem on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023.

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Northbound I-5 reopen at Kuebler Boulevard in Salem, Oregon
EVANSVILLE  At 10:40 p.m. on Sept. 27, a young flight instructor and his student were cruising at an altitude of 4,500 feet in a single-engine Piper PA28 aircraft, conducting a nighttime cross-country flight over Kentucky.

Nine minutes later, the Piper's transponder ceased to operate: The aircraft and its two occupants, 22-year-old instructor Timothy McKellar Jr. and 18-year-old Connor Ward Quisenberry, were now missing.

The next day, searchers located a debris field southwest of Whitefield, Kentucky, and confirmed their worst fears: McKellar and Quisenberry had both perished in a crash.

A new report released by the National Transportation Safety Board and an analysis of flight-tracking data reveals additional information about how the pair's cross-country flight ended in a tragedy that rocked the tight-knit community of Beaver Dam, Kentucky, which Quisenberry  an Eagle Scout  called home.

'Pretty extreme turbulence'

Sept. 27 marked the first time McKellar, an instructor at Owensboro-based Eagle Flight Academy, flew with Quisenberry, according to the NTSB. At 9:55 p.m., the pair departed Bowling GreenWarren County Regional Airport en route to Owensboro.

The Piper PA28 aircraft McKellar and Quisenberry operated featured an ADS-B transponder  a device that determines a plane's location via satellite and periodically broadcasts flight information to air traffic controllers and other data recipients.

ADS-B data compiled by FlightAware, an aviation tracking firm, shows McKellar and Quisenberry conducted two touch-and-go landings in Bowling Green before the pair began their cross-country flight on Sept. 27.

Then they took off for good, hoping to conclude hours of flight instruction.

"The airplane climbed to 4,500 ft (mean sea level) and proceeded on a northwesterly course toward Owensboro/Daviess County Regional Airport... on a visual flight rules flight plan," the NTSB Aviation Investigation Preliminary Report states.

At 10:15 p.m., McKellar authored a social media post from the cockpit, one of several posts that have since drawn criticism from the aviation community. The 10:15 p.m. post depicted radar weather imagery and the Piper's planned route to Owensboro, according to the NTSB.

Critically, the radar returns showed large storm cells floating to both the left and the right of McKellar's and Quisenberry's route.

"Figure 1" in the NTSB report depicts a screen capture from the flight instructors cellphone depicting the aircraft's current position and severe weather to its northwest.

By 10:44 p.m., an air traffic controller advised McKellar of "heavy to extreme precipitation" at the airplane's 9 o'clock position, the NTSB determined upon reviewing radio communications.

Transponder data showed the Piper continued to fly a northwesterly heading, and at 10:46 p.m., McKellar requested clearance to adopt instrument flight rules.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, instrument flight rules allow a properly certified pilot to operate an aircraft even when meteorological conditions obstruct visual reference points.

"The controller issued the clearance and provided an easterly vector to assist the flight in getting out of the weather," the NTSB report states. "The flight instructor [McKellar] stated to the controller that the airplane was 'getting blown around like crazy.'"

The aircraft's transponder showed it turning northwest before entering a "right circling turn," the NTSB found.

When an air traffic controller again instructed McKellar to adopt a heading of 90 degrees, or due east, McKellar reportedly responded by saying they were in "pretty extreme turbulence."

From there, investigators determined the aircraft continued a rightward turn while simultaneously losing altitude: "No further communications were received from the flight instructor," the NTSB report states.

According to FlightAware's log of ADS-B transponder data, the Piper last beamed a signal logging its horizontal speed, vertical speed, heading, altitude, and location at 10:49 p.m.

Searchers later located a debris field about 1,000 feet northwest of the Piper's last known position, not far from New Panther Creek Church  about a six-minute drive from Whitesville.

Aircraft thoroughly examined, though no crash-causing faults found during preliminary investigation

NTSB investigators said they located all of the Piper's major components, save for the left portion of its stabilator. The aircraft's fuselage had separated behind the rear seats. The cockpit, engine and right wing were found together.

"The wreckage was recovered to a salvage facility for further examination," the report states. "Examination of the engine revealed that the fixed-pitch propeller remained attached to the crankshaft propeller flange, and both propeller blades appeared straight. The engine displayed impact damage."

Federal investigators found no anomalies inside the engine's cylinders. The magnetos were tightly installed and, when rotated using an electric drill, still produced sparks.

"Examination of the engine did not reveal any pre-accident anomalies or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation," the investigators concluded.

The NTSB's preliminary report does not attribute a cause to the fatal Sept. 27 crash. In September, an NTSB spokeswoman noted the presence of severe weather and its role in complicating the aircraft's return flight, but she noted all findings were preliminary and did not establish cause.

Quisenberry had recently graduated from Ohio County High School prior to the crash, according to his obituary. After graduating, Quisenberry attended Owensboro Community College and obtained his student pilot's license.

"He loved flying, all sports, the beach and spending time with his family and friends," Quisenberry's obituary states in part. "Connor was a very active member of Hartford Christian Church."

McKellar loved all things fast: lifted and diesel trucks, airplanes and motorcycles, his obituary states. Junior never met a stranger, made those around him laugh (and) loved to entertain.

But what of Eagle Flight Academy, where Quisenberry took lessons, and McKellar taught?

The once-bustling aviation center is now up for sale, according to a recent post on its official Facebook page.

"Is there anyone out there that would like to buy a flight school?" the post reads, in part. "We will be selling most everything."

Houston Harwood can be contacted at houston.harwood@courierpress.com.

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: NTSB publishes report detailing deadly Kentucky plane crash
(CNN)  Russian President Vladimir Putins grim bet that America and the West will tire of his brutal war before he does is looking better by the day.

Nearly seven weeks after US President Joe Biden asked US Congress for $60 billion to top up Kyivs arms and ammunition lifeline  along with another $14 billion for Israel  nothing has happened. In a grave blow to its prospects, Ukraine aid has now been embroiled by Republicans in a separate imbroglio over immigration. The impasse, along with dwindling prospects that Congress will act before the holidays, sparked remarkable warnings by the White House on Monday that heralded a critical moment in the war.

Were running out of money, and we are nearly out of time, Bidens national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters. The toughening of administration rhetoric suggested that any lawmaker who opposed funding was on the Russian leaders side. A vote against supporting Ukraine is a vote to improve (Vladimir) Putins strategic position, he said.

Sullivans comments came after US Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young warned US House Speaker Mike Johnson in a letter that cutting off the flow of US weapons and equipment will kneecap Ukraine on the battlefield, not only putting at risk the gains Ukraine has made, but increasing the likelihood of Russian military victories.

Ukraines ambassador to the United States Oksana Markarova also pleaded for lawmakers not to desert her country. After we have won so much, we cannot lose it now, she told CNNs Wolf Blitzer. We are all praying and hoping for additional support from the American people.

Can the US really promise to be with Ukraine for as long as it takes?

The alarmist tone raised the question of whether the administrations frustration was a political tactic designed to jolt US Congress into action or reflects genuine concern that the US pipeline of military aid sustaining Ukraines resistance is really under threat. Given the failure of US Congress and, especially the chaotic US House GOP majority, of fulfilling even the most basic duties of government, anxiety verging on panic might be justified in the West Wing.

Rising doubts over the US commitment coincide with a bitter winter beckoning in which Russia is expected to again target Ukrainian civilians and the power plants that keep them warm. There are new signs that Moscow has been able to reconstitute a rebound in its depleted forces and armaments and is deploying new missiles and drones from allies like North Korea and Iran. Israels war on Hamas, meanwhile, has overshadowed Ukraine in recent weeks  a situation about which President Volodymyr Zelensky has fretted publicly in recent days.

While Ukraines survival is at stake, so is the reputation of the United States as a global leader. Only two weeks ago, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin traveled to Kyiv and publicly told Zelensky, We will remain with you for the long-haul. But can the US really honor that vow, both in the short-term Ukraine funding fight and given the possibility that former US President Donald Trump, who is hostile to Ukraine and always curries favor with Putin, has a good chance of returning to the White House if he wins the GOP nomination next year?

The idea that Washington would abandon a democratic, sovereign nation fighting off an invasion plotted by the Kremlin would once have been unthinkable. Such a move would not only shatter Western resolve in Ukraine; it could send a signal to adversaries like Russia and China that US security guarantees to allies mean nothing elsewhere in the world. But the shift in the GOPs worldview  away from its internationalist roots and toward an isolationist America First stance favored by Trump  has changed assumptions about US power. The political forces that could reshape the world in a Trump second term are already at play in Washington, especially in the House, and are threatening to transform US foreign policy.

Supporters of continued aid to Ukraine warn that Putin is watching. Republican Sen. Jim Risch of Idaho, who serves on the Intelligence and Foreign Relations committees, said at the Halifax International Security Forum last month that Vladimir Putin, I have reason to believe  believes hes going to win this war by outlasting us. Risch added: They watch every word that is uttered in the United States, in Canada, and with our other allies, from the dissenters, not the vast majority of people who support this.

Ret. US Army Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges echoed that sense that Moscow is following every move in the US Congress. The big test of will is between the Kremlin and Western capitals  Washington, Berlin, Paris, London and others, Hodges said on a briefing organized last week by Spirit of America, a non-profit group that works alongside troops and diplomats to promote US values.

Americas domestic turmoil threatens its global leadership

The same divisive political forces that have turned Congress into a dead end and are fostering the possibility of a second Trump term have combined to threaten the American bankrolling of Ukraines resistance.

Right-wing Republicans are demanding a package of hardline immigration policy changes at the southern border in exchange for funding Ukraine that are unacceptable to US Senate Democrats. Johnson may struggle to retain his tenuous hold on his job if he uses Democratic votes to pass a Ukraine funding package. And there is little common ground or trust between the Republican-led House and the Democratic-led Senate. Bidens crumbling approval ratings are limiting his capacity to sell continued massive aid to Ukraine to a public that is becoming more skeptical amid daily struggles in the US, including over high food prices.

Ukraines failure to turn its long-promised counter-offensive into concrete gains has, meanwhile, led skeptics of more aid to ask whether its being used effectively and how long the war would last. Johnson has, for instance, complained that the administration has not offered a plan for victory in Ukraine or a path to resolving the conflict. These are reasonable concerns given that billions of dollars of taxpayer cash is being used in the aid effort. Yet the situation in Ukraine hardly lends itself to the answers that Johnson seeks. Putin, with his high tolerance for enormous Russian casualties, looks ready to fight a war of attrition to bleed his enemy dry and to await political change in the US and Europe that will slowly strangle Ukraines military. Russia and Ukraine have in reality been at war for more than a decade already  since Putin annexed Crimea, a Ukrainian territory, in 2014. As the war grinds into a stalemate, neither Russia nor Ukraine are anywhere near a negotiation on ending it, given that the stakes for both are so high in avoiding defeat.

The Ukraine aid package is now caught in the most intractable US political issue  immigration.

Biden requested $13.6 billion for security at the US-Mexico border, alongside his Israel and Ukraine aid requests, in a bid to ease passage of the measure, which also includes $7.4 billion for Taiwan. But Republicans want policy changes, as well as new funding. In the House, they are pushing for new laws based on H.R. 2, a bill that would encode many of Trumps hardline immigration policies as well as changes to asylum law. And a bipartisan group of senators has spent several weeks seeking a compromise, but there were conflicting reports Monday on whether their talks had broken down.

US Senate Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer will amp up pressure on US Senate Republicans who favor more aid to Ukraine but are hostage to the pro-Trump base of their party. He plans to bring a Ukraine-Israel aid package to the floor this week for a vote without immigration measures included. Zelensky had been expected to remotely address a classified Senate briefing on Tuesday to make his countrys case but canceled due to a last minute matter, Schumer said. The Ukrainian president didnt address a similar meeting of House lawmakers either.

Americas national security is on the line around the world, in Europe, in the Middle East, in the Indo-Pacific, autocrats, dictators are waging war against democracy, against our values, against our way of life, the New York Democrat said. We are at a moment in history.

But a group of Republican senators who normally back Ukraine aid signaled Monday they couldnt move forward without immigration changes attached to the measure. Texas Sen. John Cornyn warned, for instance, that our security cannot come second to that of other countries around the world, our allies, even those like Ukraine and Israel.

Given broad support for Ukraine in the Senate, it seems likely some messy compromise will emerge. But the unpredictability and instability of the GOP-controlled House means an aid package faces a deeply uncertain fate. The GOP majority still hasnt passed normally routine bills  like one funding the US Defense Department, for instance. And while the chamber did back an Israel funding bill, it was weighed down with cuts to the Internal Revenue Service, which Senate Democrats oppose  a sign of how House Republicans are geared more to partisan messaging than governing or preserving US power and influence abroad.

The coming danger for Ukraine is that it will get dragged even further into a government funding fight that is looming for January and February. And even before the result of the 2024 election is known, its clear that there are no longer any guarantees that US billions will be there for however long the war lasts.

And all the while in Moscow, Putin is watching and waiting.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Ukraines US lifeline is hanging by a thinning thread"
CINCINNATI, Ohio (WCMH)  A Florida man and woman have been convicted of stealing customers information from one specific bank in Ohio through a phone scam.

Deon O. Noel, 28, and Diamond Bezada, 25, of Miami, Florida, pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit bank fraud on Wednesday in U.S. District Court. The scam resulted in 11 bank accounts and more than $108,000 being compromised, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Ohio.

Noel and Bezadas scheme was an attempt to defraud Fifth Third Bank and multiple Ohio residents with Fifth Third accounts. Court documents showed that in August and September 2019, the defendants would call bank customers and falsely represented themselves as Fifth Third bank agents. They used these calls to obtain the bank account numbers and security information of the customers.

With the compromised cash from these bank accounts, the defendants purchased goods, services, and money orders, primarily in Las Vegas, Nevada. They agreed to pay the total funds in restitution as a part of their plea agreements.

The court will determine sentencing for the defendants based on advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Conspiracy to commit bank fraud is a federal crime that can be punished with up to 30 years in prison, the U.S. Attorneys Office said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
Zachary J. Fornash

CANTON  A Canton police officer fatally shot a 24-year-old man Tuesday night while investigating a report of a person with a gun.

Police Chief John Gabbard said Zachary J. Fornash died from his injuries after being taken to Aultman Hospital.

The police officer went to the 900 block of Alan Page Drive SE in Canton just after 10 p.m. There are numerous apartment buildings in the area.

"The officer was not injured," Gabbard said via a news release. "The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) is conducting the investigation. Updates will be forthcoming."

What led up to the fatal shooting of Zachary Fornash?

Police did not release additional details about what led up to the shooting.

The responding officer was flagged down while on patrol, police said, and there was no 911 call.

Canton police had not released the name of the officer involved in Tuesday's shooting as of Wednesday morning.

Departmental spokesman Lt. Dennis Garren said the officer's identity is expected to be released when other information about the incident is disclosed.

Zachary Fornash is survived by his children Elijah, 2, Layla, 1, and Avah, 5.

State investigators to probe fatal shooting in Canton

BCI's investigation is ongoing, Steve Irwin, press secretary for Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, said in a text message Wednesday morning. "I do not have any further details to share at this time."

Irwin said Canton police asked for the investigation by BCI, part of the attorney general's office.

Fornash was pronounced dead at Aultman at 10:29 p.m., said Harry Campbell, chief investigator for the Stark County Coroner's Office. He said the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office is expected to conduct the autopsy on Wednesday or Thursday.

Zachary J. Fornash's family speaks

A vigil will be held for Fornash at 6 p.m. tonight in the parking lot on the north side of the 900 block of Alan Page Drive SE.

He was the goofiest, funniest big-heartedest person you could ever meet," said his mother, Cassandra White of Hartville. "And his three children are the love of his life. He would have did anything for any of them. He's got four siblings that he worshipped and they are heartbroken. And his wife is shattered.

Fornash lived in the 800 block of Alan Page Drive SE with his wife, Alexus Hill-Fornash and children Avah, 5, Elijah, 2, and Layla, 1. He is also survived by his father, James Fornash, and siblings Bella, Carlee, Tristan and Caleb.

His baby sister (Bella) said that she couldnt think of a person that's got a bigger heart than him," White said.

Fornash attended McKinley High School in Canton.

His fatal shooting is the third such incident involving a Canton police officer since 2022.

Most recently, Officer Jacob Dryden fatally shot Jeffrey Neff, 41, on June 7 while responding to a reported domestic dispute at his home in the 300 block of 25th Street SW. The shooting occurred at the Interstate 77 entrance ramp.

According to police body camera video, Neff fired at least one shot at Dryden, who was grazed in the leg.

BCIs investigation of the Neff shooting remains open and ongoing, Irwin said. Once completed, it will be referred to Stark County Prosecutor Kyle Stone.

Officer Robert Huber shot James Williams, 46, at his home in the 2300 block of 10th Street SW in early on Jan. 1, 2022. At the time, Williams was firing a Ruger AR-556 rifle into the air to celebrate the new year. Huber shot at Williams through a 6-foot wooden fence.

A Stark County grand jury opted not to criminally charge Huber, who said he feared for his safety and others.

Williams' widow has a civil lawsuit against the city, Huber and police supervisors in federal court.

Jan. 1, 2022: Inside the investigation: New details, videos emerge in shooting of James Williams

June 7, 2023: Canton police shooting: Videos and wife detail how Jeffrey Neff was killed after chase

This story will be updated.

Reach Nancy at 330-580-8382 or nancy.molnar@cantonrep.com.

On X, formerly known as Twitter: @nmolnarTR

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Canton police officer fatally shoots man, 24, on Alan Page Drive
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine backs a plan to allow the state's medical marijuana dispensaries to sell recreational marijuana to those 21 and older and allow Ohioans to grow six marijuana plants at home.

The proposed changes come a month after Ohio voters legalized marijuana, 57-43%, and became the 24th state to do so. Ohio's marijuana law went into effect Thursday as passed by the voters.

The latest reforms were part of a slew of revisions the Ohio Senate proposed and passed in a 28-2 vote Wednesday evening. However, the Ohio House of Representatives has not scheduled a vote on the bill.

Among the proposed Senate changes:

Limit the number of marijuana plants to six per household, which is less than 12 permitted under Issue 2. The Senate previously proposed axing home grow entirely.

Keep the maximum amount of THC at 35% for plant material and reduce it from 90% to 50% for extracts. Sen. Bill Blessing, R-Colerain Township, said that reduction would empower the illicit market, but he voted for the bill anyway.

Tax marijuana sales at 15% with the option of counties adding an additional 3% tax. An earlier proposal to tax cultivators was removed.

Expunge convictions for possessing 2.5 ounces of marijuana or less. Individuals would need to file an application with a court.

Bans advertising that targets children and requires kid-safe packaging.

Apply the public smoking ban to marijuana as well.

You can legally use marijuana in Ohio, but can't legally buy it

Starting Thursday, Ohioans can now use recreational marijuana legally, but there is no legal place to purchase it in the state

That's why DeWine and senators want the changes to pass as soon as possible.

"We understand that we have to protect that access to products while also not allowing the black market to get a head start on the legal market," said Sen. Rob McColley, R-Napoleon. "It is our intention to allow the legal market to go into effect as soon as possible."

DeWine says he wants to respect voters' wishes

DeWine, who voted against Issue 2 and opposes marijuana legalization, said the voters' will would be respected with these changes.

I would prefer no home grow," DeWine said. "What's in this bill much exceeds what a person would be able to consume themselves."

Lawmakers in the Ohio House and Senate previously introduced dueling bills on whether Ohioans can grow marijuana at home, how much THC is permitted in products and how high taxes will be. The Ohio Senate initially proposed axing home grow entirely but pulled back from that idea after massive opposition.

Negotiations are playing out amid an internal fight over who will lead the Ohio House of Representatives next. And many lawmakers in the Ohio House of Representatives are in no rush to pass anything.

"I think it's important as public officials that we listen to what the voters said," said Rep. Jamie Callender, R-Concord, who introduced House Bill 354 to preserve home grow and THC levels approved by voters while increasing the tax rate and changing where some of that tax money goes.

House Minority Leader Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington, said the Senate changes are better than what they initially introduced, but not where Ohio needs to be. "The status quo is this adult-use marijuana is going to be legal at midnight tonight (Thursday), and I think our first priority is we have to protect the will of the voters."

E.W. Scripps School of Journalism's Statehouse News Bureau fellow Kayla Bennett contributed reporting.

Jessie Balmert is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ohio Senate proposes allowing dispensaries to sell recreational marijuana
This is a photo of the Oklahoma State Board of Education meeting.

This article was originally published in Oklahoma Voice.

OKLAHOMA CITY  Tulsa Public Schools now faces the possibility of closing schools as the state adds new demands for academic improvement.

The Oklahoma State Board of Education created another set of goals for Tulsa to achieve by the end of the school year, and state Superintendent Ryan Walters said all options are on the table for penalties if the district falls short.

Walters and the board urged the school district to consider consolidating resources and funding into fewer school buildings, which means some sites could close.

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We think they need to be looking at school closures, Walters said. Im not telling them which schools they need to close, but I am telling them when you look at these numbers of that many F schools, you look at the resources that youre making available, you look at (the fact that) some of them have been on this (F) list for years, it absolutely has to be part of the decision-making process.

Tulsa interim Superintendent Ebony Johnson said the district is exploring the possibility, as well as significant changes to staff.

There will be district-office and school-level changes in personnel that will take place this school year, Johnson told the state board. We are also having conversations regarding ensuring that we provide the best quality learning experience for our students. And in that conversation, that could lend itself to some school closures.

Such a move would not be unprecedented. Oklahoma City Public Schools closed 15 schools and reconfigured 17 others in 2019.

Rather than spreading students and resources across more schools with lower enrollment, the plan concentrated services, like counselors and academic programs, into fewer schools while cutting costs of building maintenance.

Related

Texas Districts Mull School Closures Amid Declining Enrollment, Competition from Charters

The threat of a state takeover has loomed over Tulsa for four months, as state officials continue to scrutinize the districts poor academic output. Former Tulsa Superintendent Deborah Gist resigned in September to help stave off such a drastic measure from the state.

To avoid further penalties, Tulsa now must have 50% of its students score at least at a basic level on state reading tests this spring or see a 5% increase in academic growth in reading.

Academic growth measures students improvement over the previous year in a subject area. Scoring at a basic level on state tests indicates partial mastery of a subject.

Last school year, 57% of Tulsa district students scored below basic in reading, according to recently released state report cards.

Walters said he hopes to require all Oklahoma public schools to achieve at least 50% of students scoring at or above basic in reading and math. Adding this to every schools yearly accreditation evaluation will require a 60-day period of public comment, state board approval and a review by the state Legislature  a process Walters said will begin in the coming weeks.

The state Board of Education also required Tulsa to improve its 18 schools that have been designated for more rigorous intervention, a label given to low-performing schools. Twelve of the 18 schools must show enough improvement that they arent marked for more rigorous intervention next year.

The district also must train all of its teachers in the science of reading.

Additionally, the board demanded the districts finance team meet with staff from the Oklahoma State Department of Education to review district expenditures. The departments general counsel, Bryan Cleveland, said Tulsa staff delayed the finance meeting multiple times.

However, email records show it was state agency staff who suggested postponing the meeting to after Thanksgiving because of the large volume of documents the state had asked the school district to compile, according to records the Tulsa district provided to Oklahoma Voice.

Related

To Improve Student Outcomes, Oklahoma Lawmakers Should Consider Tackling Hunger

Cleveland questioned the thousands of dollars Tulsa spent on items listed as miscellaneous expenses. He said the district should explain these expenditures in greater detail.

Im not even saying these expenditures are necessarily bad, Cleveland said. The problem is you dont know if theyre good or bad if you keep having different ways of using the word miscellaneous.

Tulsa Board of Education President Stacey Woolley, front right, said she worries the states new expectations for her district are unattainable. Woolley first met with the Oklahoma State Board of Education on Aug. 24 along with local board members, from left, ELena Ashley, Jennettie Marshall and Susan Lamkin. (Brent Fuchs/For Oklahoma Voice)

Tulsa Board of Education President Stacey Woolley said she worries the new academic expectations wont be attainable.

State officials complained the districts academic plan wasnt ambitious enough, but Woolley said Tulsas goals were developed with school data experts.

She said the possibility of closing schools will be a very challenging conversation for the Tulsa school board, but she didnt dismiss the idea.

What Im certain of is our board wants to do what is best for students and that Dr. Johnson wants what is best for students, Woolley said. If she can tell us that she believes that her actions will help improve student outcomes, then that is critical for our students and we have as a board said that we will support her in doing what it takes to achieve outcomes.

Any site closures would be a local decision made with input from families, the community and the Tulsa school board, district spokesperson Luke Chitwood said in a statement.

Ultimately, the Tulsa Public Schools Board of Education considers any recommendation made and decides if any closures, consolidations, or changes in school format will be approved and implemented, he said in a statement after the meeting.

Oklahoma Voice is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oklahoma Voice maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Janelle Stecklein for questions: info@oklahomavoice.com. Follow Oklahoma Voice on Facebook and Twitter.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  One person is dead after a shooting in east Columbus Tuesday night.

According to Columbus police, the shooting happened near the intersection of North 20th Street and Mt. Vernon Avenue at approximately 6:19 p.m. The victim was pronounced dead at Grant Medical Center at 6:39 p.m.

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There is no other information available at this time.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Columbus police homicide unit at 614-645-0877.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
One person was killed and another was injured early Wednesday morning in a head-on collision, South Carolina officials said.

Merrill Lonjin Jr., a 39-year-old Sumter resident, died in the accident, Sumter County Coroner Robbie Baker said.

The three-vehicle collision happened at about 4 a.m. on Pinewood Road, near the intersection with Starks Ferry Road, according to Master Trooper William Bennett of the South Carolina Highway Patrol.

Lonjin was driving a 2011 Mercury SUV west on Pinewood Road and crossed the center line, crashing head-on with an eastbound 2021 Toyota sedan, officials said. The Toyota then collided with a 2019 Jeep SUV that was also driving east on Pinewood Road, according to Bennett.

Lonjin, who was not wearing a seat belt, was entrapped in the Mercury and died at the scene, Baker said.

The driver of the Toyota was taken to an area hospital, according to Bennett. Further information on the Toyota drivers condition was not available.

Bennett said the Jeep driver was not hurt, and no other injuries were reported.

There was no word if either the Toyota or Jeep drivers were wearing seat belts.

Information about what caused the Mercury to veer into oncoming traffic was not available, but the crash continues to be investigated by the Highway Patrol and coroners office. An autopsy has been scheduled for later this week at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, Baker said.

Through Monday, 893 people had died on South Carolina roads in 2023, according to the state Department of Public Safety. Last year, 1,091 people died in crashes in South Carolina, DPS reported.

At least 27 people have died in Sumter County crashes in 2023, according to DPS data. There were 30 deaths reported in the county in 2022, DPS reported.
CANTON, Ohio (WJW)  The I-Team confirms the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) is investigating a shooting involving a police officer in Canton.

The incident happened late Tuesday near an apartment complex along Alan Page Drive.

Man wanted in killings of Solon brothers arrested

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According to Canton police, a police officer investigating a report of a person with a gun just after 10 p.m. was involved in the shooting.

The I-Team confirms a suspect was killed in the incident.

The suspect has been identified as Zachary Fornash, 24.

Police search for suspects who pointed guns at Euclid officers: I-Team

Fornash died at the hospital, according to police.

No officers were injured.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
Its interesting to me how unbothered many New Mexicans are by the decades of gerrymandering that have taken place in our state. The November 27 affirmation by the state Supreme Court of the lower court ruling upholding the 2021 redistricting plan signed into law by the Democratic legislature was similarly anticlimactic.

The all-Democrat Supreme Court simply agreed with the previous District Court ruling that well, yes, the Democratic legislature gerrymandered the 2nd Congressional District to improve Democratic performance in that district by 12 percentage points. But that wasnt an egregious gerrymander.

Meh. Politicians are going to politick. What are you gonna do?

And then theres my favorite response when I get on my gerrymandering soapbox: Republicans are gerrymandering in other states.

Well then. Obviously we need to disenfranchise our own voters, too. If Republicans jumped off a cliff.

Gerrymandering is a part of our political culture that tarnishes our democracy. Essentially, we are letting our elected politicians select their voters for the next few election cycles. Typically, during a redistricting process, state legislatures redraw maps to favor incumbents and strengthen existing partisan majorities.

In a country where more and more voters are rejecting both major parties, these partisan redistricting practices are leaving more voters out in the cold.

Changing the culture in New Mexico for the 2031 redistricting process will be difficult. Redrawing district maps is a significant power and one that many legislators believe is sacrosanct. What is needed is a constitutional amendment establishing an independent redistricting commission.

Previous efforts to pass legislation for independent redistricting have failed or been diluted. It is generally supported by the more progressive members of the Democratic caucus, meaning few, if any Republicans will touch it, even though they have the most to lose every ten years given their perennial minority party status. And more than a century of nearly unbroken Democratic majority rule in the Legislature makes most Democrats unwilling to fix something that doesnt appear broken to them.

It's on us, fellow voters. Roswell is now split between two new congressional districts and aligned with Albuquerque and Santa Fe because its voters have the temerity to be mostly Republican. Roswell is not geographically close to Albuquerque or Santa Fe, nor does it share significant communities of interest with either locality. But pulling Roswell out of CD2 sure gives a boost to Democratic candidates.

As several readers have shared with me, some folks believe Republicans deserve this sort of treatment simply because they are Republicans (and dont get me wrong  there are those in my party who have a very flawed view of our election system, I know). But no one in a democracy deserves to have their vote diluted. In a democracy, multiple candidates will stand for office and voters will have the opportunity to freely vote for the candidate of their choice by secret ballot. Everyone, of every party or no party, needs to remember that.

One person, one vote is the law of the land. The U.S. Supreme Court has taken this up in several cases in the last 60 years, most recently in 2016. Again and again, the court has ruled to uphold the principle that redistricting must create as close to perfect equality as possible, while maintaining geographical compactness, preserving counties and other political subdivisions, and maintaining communities of interest.

Sorry, Roswell.

I encourage you to make independent redistricting a priority for your legislators. Ask the candidates running in 2024 where they stand on the issue and challenge them if they dont support it. Voters must choose their elected officials. For decades in New Mexico, it has been the other way around.

Merritt Hamilton Allen is a PR executive and former Navy officer. She appeared regularly as a panelist on NM PBS and is a frequent guest on News Radio KKOB. A Republican, she lives amicably with her Democratic husband north of I-40 where they run one head of dog, and two of cat. She can be reached at news.ind.merritt@gmail.com.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: One person, one vote should mean something
(KRON)  One person was stabbed near Mission Street on Tuesday, the San Francisco Police Department announced.

San Francisco police responded to 20th and Mission streets regarding a stabbing at 7:50 p.m. on Dec. 5.

Ex-San Jose cop went on road rage rampage, according to court docs

Upon arrival, officers located an adult male victim with apparent stab wounds. Police said they rendered aid and summoned medics to the scene. The victim was transported the victim to the hospital for life-threatening injuries.

There has not been an arrest in this case.

Anyone with information is asked to contact SFPD at (415)-575-4444.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
On December 8, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered his "Day of Infamy" speech before a joint session of Congress. In it, he called for Congress to declare war on the Empire of Japan in response to attacks against U.S. military bases in the Philippines, Guam, at Wake Island, Midway Atoll, and Pearl Harbor. Moreover, Japan already declared war on the United States and Great Britain.

FDR addresses Congress after Pearl Harbor (National Archives)

"There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory, and our interests are in grave danger. With confidence in our armed forceswith the unbounding determination of our peoplewe will gain the inevitable triumphso help us God," Roosevelt said at the end of his speech. "I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, December 7, 1941, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese Empire." His words served as a rallying cry that mobilized the nation to war. Answering his request, Congress voted to declare war with 82-0 in the Senate but 388-1 in the House.

Rankin in the phone booth after her dissenting vote (U.S. Capitol)

Representative Jeanette Rankin (R-MT), the first woman elected to Congress and a staunch pacifist, cast the only dissenting vote. Whereas Roosevelt's speech was marked by cheers and applause, Rankin's vote was met with hisses from other members of Congress. "As a woman, I can't go to war, and I refuse to send anyone else," she famously said on the Floor. After the vote, Rankin retreated to the Republican cloakroom and took refuge from the mob of reporters in a phone booth until Capitol Police dispersed them.

The first draft of S.J. RES. 119, declaration of war on Germany, used S.J. RES. 116, declaration of war on Japan and replaced "Japan" with "Germany" (U.S. Senate)

On December 11, 1941, Congress similarly declared war on Germany and Italy. Rankin abstained from voting. She was one of 56 members of Congress, 50 in the House, who voted against declaring war on Germany in 1917. However, in the case of WWII, she stood alone. With her political career over, Rankin did not seek reelection in 1942. Though her position was extremely unpopular in the wave of patriotism that swept the nation, Rankin's strength of conviction is viewed with admiration by some. "Few members of Congress have ever stood more alone while being true to a higher honor and loyalty," President John F. Kennedy wrote of her dissenting votes.
Feature: China-Laos Railway boosts local tourism, employment

Xinhua) 08:22, December 06, 2023

Passengers queue at Luang Prabang railway station of the China-Laos Railway in Luang Prabang, Laos, Dec. 4, 2023. (Xinhua/Lu Yun)

VIENTIANE, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- At the age of 20, Lao girl Bounmee already became the breadwinner for her family. As the chief conductor of a bullet train on the China-Laos Railway, she now earns a salary way more than her peers.

"My parents are so proud of me," she said in fluent Chinese. After high school, she went to study Chinese in the hope that language skills could help her land a high-paying job, and the launch of the China-Laos Railway on Dec. 3, 2021 helped her hard work pay off.

Two years into operation, the railway has created jobs for thousands of Laotians like Bounmee, and brought tangible benefits to local tourism, supporting the country's post-pandemic growth.

Over the past two years, the railway has handled 24.2 million passenger trips and transported 29.1 million tons of cargo, according to China's railway operator. The monthly passenger trips handled by the railway have grown significantly from more than 600,000 at the beginning of its operation to more than 1.1 million now.

According to the Laos-China Railway Co., Ltd. (LCRC), a joint venture based in Lao capital Vientiane responsible for the operation of the railway's Lao section, the demand for the bullet trains are beyond original expectations, and the company is stepping up efforts to tailor to Lao people's ever-increasing and diversifying needs.

For instance, in line with the increasing demand for high-end services, the LCRC added business-class seats in new trains, facilitating better experiences along the journey.

"We want to bring quality products and services to Laos, and we want Lao people to share the benefits during the process," a LCRC operation manager said.

The railway has contributed to the recovery of tourism industry in Laos, which is a crucial driver for growth but was badly hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. The bullet trains became a much-needed boost, as it greatly cuts travel time between major cities, attracting tourists from home and abroad.

At Luang Prabang, a popular tourist destination, passengers were lining up to take the bullet trains. Thanks to the China-Laos Railway, travel time between Vientiane and Luang Prabang was cut to about 2 hours, compared with more than 6 hours of driving.

"We chose Laos as the destination because it's convenient to travel around via the trains," said Minjung Choi, a tourist from South Korea, who was on a five-day visit to Laos with her friend.

"It's a clean, safe, and efficient way to travel, and it's not too hard for us to buy the tickets," she said.

More than 2.4 million foreign tourists visited Laos in the first nine months of 2023, up by 285 percent from a year ago, according to statistics from the Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.

Looking forward, the LCRC said it hopes that together with the development of the railway, the skills of local employees like Bounmee could also improve so that more management positions could open to local people, supporting high-quality employment.

For Bounmee, who now has a Chinese name "Xiao Li," meaning "little beauty" in Chinese, that means brighter career prospects and a shining future ahead.

"I hope I can travel to China to learn more technical skills and see with my eyes of the beautiful country," she said.

Chief conductor Bounmee works on a bullet train on the China-Laos Railway in Laos, Dec. 4, 2023. (Xinhua/Lu Yun)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Richard Perez, president of the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, speaks about downsizing on Thursday, July 7, 2022. Billy Calzada/Staff photographer Jim Reed, photographed here in 2019, is retiring as president of the San Antonio Medical Foundation. Jerry Lara/Staff photographer Jim Reed, photographed here in 2019, is retiring as president of the San Antonio Medical Foundation. Jerry Lara/Staff photographer San Antonio Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Richard Perez sits in the audience as the San Antonio City Council approves an ordinance mandated paid sick time, Thursday, August 16, 2018. The ordinance is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2019. JERRY LARA/San Antonio Express-News

Richard Perez, former longtime CEO of the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, has been named president of the San Antonio Medical Foundation, the nonprofit that brought the University of Texas medical school to San Antonio and has overseen creation of the South Texas Medical Center.

He will succeed Jim Reed, who announced in August hed step down when a successor was named.

The foundations board unanimously approved the move Tuesday, Reed said Wednesday. The transition will be official Jan. 1.

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I figure after 25 years it was time to pass the baton, he said. Working with Richard will make it very easy because we have worked together and known each other for so long.

Perez served on the City Council for four years ending in 2007 before working 15 years as president and CEO of the chamber, where he was the first Latino to hold the role. He left that position at the end of 2022.

Reed said Wednesday hed be staying on a few weeks into the new year to help with the transition to run the nonprofit, which has overseen the transformation of more than 900 acres on the North Side into the hub of hospitals, clinics and research facilities comprising the Medical Center.

Right qualities

Foundation Chair Stephanie Chandler said Perez stood out to the search committee as it began whittling down a list of 55 applicants. He possessed the qualities the board had decided through its strategic planning for Reeds departure that the foundation needed.

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Those factors included a deep and broad understanding of the things going on in our community, Chandler said. Not only the medical and health care industry, but the dynamics around funding and investment in different community projects.

The committee wanted to find a leader with a temperament matching Reeds and who would excel in building relationships, she said. And they wanted a president who understands how vital the foundations partnerships with the city and county are as they make investments and make sure we provide the best quality health care to citizens of the entire community.

Perez, who took time off this last year to enjoy time with his wife, said hes refreshed heading into the new role. Hes missed being part of the decisions that help shape San Antonios future.

I have so much to give back and have plenty of gas left in the tank, Perez said.

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The foundation was formed in 1947 to pursue a medical school and more hospitals and research facilities.

By the numbers

Today, the Medical Center includes 75 medical organizations, more than 45 clinics, 12 major hospitals and dozens of small practices, offices and non-medical businesses, many of which opened or expanded during Reeds tenure, according to the nonprofit.

It generated nearly $11.9 billion in revenue and supported more than 86,660 jobs in 2022, according to a study conducted by the Center for Community and Business Research at the University of Texas at San Antonios Institute for Economic Development. That was an increase of 63 percent and 47 percent, respectively, since 2018, the last time the study was done.

When Perez announced his departure from the chamber last November, he said the move was not an easy one, but added: I am excited about the direction of the organization and the opportunity to continue to serve the San Antonio community outside of this role.

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He was a consultant to the chamber this year as it conducted a nationwide search for his replacement.

Im really excited and looking forward to getting back to work and contributing to the economic development and growth of this great city, Perez said.

Early last month, the business advocacy group named Jeff Webster its next president and CEO. He began Dec. 1.
Sensor-laden caps are seen on Nov. 29 in a sleep lab at the University of Texas at San Antonio. The facility is part of a UTSA artificial intelligence research project that recently received a $2 million grant. William Luther Graduate student Emerson Larios, left, and lab manager Sabrina Sanchez on Nov.29 prepare a bed in the sleep lab at the University of Texas at San Antonio. The facility is part of a UTSA artificial intelligence research project that recently received a $2 million grant. William Luther A sleep lab is seen Nov. 29 at the University of Texas at San Antonio. The facility is part of a research project that recently received a $2 million grant. William Luther

University of Texas at San Antonio scientists seeking to develop the next generation of artificial intelligence have received $4 million in federal grants to continue and expand their work.

Two research teams affiliated with the UTSA MATRIX AI Consortium for Human Well-Being received $2 million each from the National Science Foundations Emerging Frontiers in Research and Innovation program.

The funding will help the researchers continue exploring energy-efficient AI that learns continuously throughout its lifetime.

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Dhireesha Kudithipudi, the McDermott endowed chair in UTSAs electrical and computer engineering department and founding director of the MATRIX AI Consortium, is the projects principal investigator working with co-investigators Itamar Lerner, an assistant professor in the universitys psychology department, and several researchers at institutions across the country.

Theyre trying to develop AI models that mirror how the human brain processes information at a fraction of the energy that current AI systems use. Kudithipudi calls these grand challenges within the field.

The challenge really is translating these principles of biological intelligence into engineered learning systems, she said of the 4-year project. We are trying to take these principles that we observe in the brain and trying to translate them into AI models and, eventually, more efficient hardware.

According to one study, the hardware operating the popular AI interface Chat GPT-3 consumed 1,287 megawatt-hours of electricity to train the system before its launch. The numbers grow exponentially with usage and updates to the AI models  and thats just one AI platform.

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By comparison, Kudithipudi said, the human brain uses 20 watts of power and individual computations consume about 0.1 watt  a fraction of the computers power use.

And while current AI models are good at specific tasks theyre trained on, they dont work as well in real-world situations where they encounter unfamiliar environments, incomplete data or unknown inputs.

Kudithipudis team is exploring the temporal scaffolding hypothesis, which theorizes that during sleep, the human brain replays memories at an accelerated rate, which enables it to recognize patterns within such experiences. The idea is that future AI systems could mirror how the brain processes patterns when its awake and asleep.

Co-investigator Itamar Lerner, a cognitive and computational neuroscientist, said the human brain can process constant streams of information without expending vast amounts of energy. By recognizing patterns over time, people can predict and react to what could happen in the future.

Patterns help people extract the gist of the vast amounts of information our brains process in order to handle new situations in future, he said.

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Much of this happens during sleep when the brain rapidly processes information.

The team will perform human sleep studies at UTSAs sleep lab as part of its research.

This project is based on trying to take this this basic mechanism and see if we can implement it in large neural networks in an energy-efficient way, Lerner said.

Fidel Santamaria  a professor in the UTSA College of Sciences neuroscience, developmental and regenerative biology department  is the principal investigator of the other project that received a $2 million grant. Hes also working with several researchers at other universities.

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In Santamarias project, his team will apply a mathematical theory  which explains how neurons adapt based on their previous activity  to design more efficient electric circuits.

Humans are history dependent, meaning we use history and previous experiences to process new information, Santamaria said.

Similarly, neurons, which transmit electric pulses, adapt their responses based on their past, and such history dependence is an important part of their function. Santamaria said that the more neurons are stimulated, the more they adapt.

The objective of the project is to develop the theory, implement circuits that discover new capacitors with these history-dependent properties and then test if we can have optimal computation and optimal energy consumption at the same time, he said.

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The team is eyeing specialized capacitors, devices that store energy, in developing its circuits.

All the electronics we are using right now are based on resistors, he said in a statement. Instead, math told us that if we can find a capacitor  that is history dependent; then, we will be able to translate what we know from neuroscience to actually build a circuit that will have the same properties of the real neurons we have been investigating.

The goal, he said, is to build a single neuron with electric circuits and determine whether that neuron can outperform larger networks.

There is not enough energy on the planet to train all the AI that humans are developing, he said. Thats a grand challenge for the country to stay at the forefront of AI development.
Anne's Wine Bar is located inside Francis Bogside at at 1170 E. Commerce St. Paul Stephen/Staff file photo High Street Wine Co. has more than doubled its capacity through a recent expansion. Paul Stephen/Staff file photo High Street Wine Co. offers wine flights. Paul Stephen/Staff file photo The wine bar A Perfect Day is a perfect place to kick off a foot tour of Southtown and King William. Paul Stephen/Staff file photo Re:Rooted 210 Urban Winery is a wine bar specializing in Texas wines made and curated by sommelier Jennifer Beckmann at Hemisfair. Re:Rooted 210 Urban Winery

The tree is trimmed. The gifts are wrapped. All the groceries have been bought. Heck, you even remembered to pick up an extra quart of eggnog.

But you've still got a few days until the main event. And the in-laws are wondering exactly when they can expect a grandbaby, your brother just pitched a multilevel marketing scheme, and let's not even talk about Uncle Frank. Everyone's better off leaving that one alone.

We get it. The holidays can be stressful. Especially when out-of-town family members take up the guest room, sofa and every square inch of counter space in your already cramped bathroom.

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Fortunately, San Antonio has the perfect solution. The city's booming wine bar scene boasts several establishments that make a perfect destination to drop off a van-load of kinfolk for an afternoon of imbibing and exploring.

If you need a break from the chaos or want to join the party yourself, consider any of these five wine bars to entertain visiting family members this holiday season.

TAMAL TIME: 10 places to order your holiday tamales in San Antonio

The wine bar A Perfect Day is a perfect place to kick off a foot tour of Southtown and King William. Paul Stephen/Staff file photo

A Perfect Day

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Cue up the Lou Reed: "Just a perfect day, drink Sangria in the park." A Perfect Day is one of two new bars (along with the hard-rocking Gimme Gimme) that opened in the former Southtown home of Francis Bogside. The offspring of longtime bar owner Aaron Pena (The Squeezebox and Amor Eterno) and the team behind Bar Loretta, A Perfect Day is the perfect place to sip a Picpoul while browsing the shop's large selection of bottles overlooked by a ceiling-high photo of Debbie Harry. This is an ideal spot to kick off a foot tour of the historic King William and Southtown neighborhoods.

A Perfect Day, 803 S. St. Mary's St., Instagram: @aperfectdaywinebar

Anne's Wine Bar is located inside Francis Bogside at at 1170 E. Commerce St. Paul Stephen/Staff file photo

Anne's Wine Bar

Nestled inside the recently relocated Francis Bogside in bustling St. Paul Square, Anne's is the first wine bar from prolific nightlife magnate Steve Mahoney. The neon-pink space is vibrant, lively and inviting, with eclectic lighting and artwork. The bottle selection isn't huge, but it is well-focused on Old World European labels and a sprinkling of global vintages to keep things interesting. Anne's is one of three concepts Mahoney has launched inside a single building along with Francis Bogside and the honky-tonk Blayne's. It also happens to be the perfect spot to start an excursion through a vibrant and historic part of downtown San Antonio.

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Anne's Wine Bar, 1170 E. Commerce St., 210-274-2977, francisbogside.com

ST. PAUL SQUARE: Your guide to dining and drinks in this historic neighborhood

High Street Wine Co. is located in the Pearl development. Paul Stephen/Staff file photo

High Street Wine Co.

It's hard to beat the Pearl for food, beverage and shopping options during the holidays. This popular wine bar recently reopened following a significant makeover that greatly expanded its capacity for both customers and bottles in its cellar. The new and improved space also provides room for High Street to hold regular wine tastings and educational classes for armchair sommeliers seeking to expand their knowledge and skills. Advanced sommelier Austin Tabbone curates High Street's wine club, which offers two bottles per month and a discount on purchases with membership.

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High Street Wine Co., 302 Pearl Parkway, Suite 104, 210-908-9144, highstreetwine.com

Re:Rooted 210 Urban Winery is a wine bar specializing in Texas wines made and curated by sommelier Jennifer Beckmann at Hemisfair. Re:Rooted 210 Urban Winery

Re:Rooted 210 Urban Winery

This Hemisfair destination is the vision of talented sommelier Jennifer Beckmann and her roughly 15 years of experience promoting and developing the wine scene in Texas. Much of what you'll find here are her own wines, produced exclusively from Texas grapes in the Hill Country and shipped into the heart of San Antonio, available by the glass or growler from a unique kegged tap system that drastically cuts down the number of glass bottles a typical wine bar would accumulate. You'll also find wines from other Texas producers, as well as homegrown ciders and mead. Grab a glass (or bottle) before strolling through the family-friendly park atmosphere of Hemisfair.

Re:Rooted 210 Urban Winery, 623 Hemisfair Blvd., Suite 106 at Hemisfair, 210-239-9763, rerootedwine.com

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Vintage Wine Bar & Specialty Foods is located at 555 West Bitters Road, Suite 112 in The Alley on Bitters shopping complex. PJ Edwards

Vintage Wine Bar & Specialty Foods

Culinary power couple Lindsey and PJ Edwards chased the success of their North Side restaurant Meadow Neighborhood Eatery + Bar with this haven for foodies and oenophiles in early 2022. Situated in the heart of the quirky The Alley On Bitters shopping complex, this wine bar is neighbor to a slew of restaurants and retail shops. In addition to a collection of roughly 150 different wines available to purchase or enjoy on-site, the shop holds regular tasting events and seasonal parties. The wine bar's selection of cheeses and charcuterie is among the best in the city, and the kitchen provides plenty of grab-and-go food options if you'd rather curl up with a bottle and a few bites at home.
FILE PHOTO: Aftermath of explosion during a Catholic Mass at Mindanao State University in Marawi

MANILA (Reuters) -Philippine police on Wednesday named two men suspected of being involved in a deadly blast that killed four people during a Catholic Mass in a southern city at the weekend.

Those suspected of orchestrating the attack in Marawi were members of Daulah-Islamiyah Maute, a pro-Islamic State militant group that took control of the city in 2017 and held it through five months of ground offensives and air strikes by the military.

The suspects were Kadapi Mimbesa, 35, and Arsani Membisa, whose age was not determined, the police said at a news briefing. Both have outstanding arrest warrants for crimes such as murder and kidnapping.

The Islamic State militant group claimed responsibility for the blast, saying one of its members detonated the bomb.

Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr had blamed "foreign terrorists" for the explosion.

"We're going to file appropriate cases against the identified suspects along with other John Does," said Brigadier General Allan Nobleza, regional police director. "We are mobilising our resources to make sure the perpetrators are put behind bars."

The pair's known address was in Lanao del Sur province, but they conducted criminal operations also in neighbouring Lanao del Norte province.

Kadapi Mimbesa has a pending warrant of arrest for kidnapping and illegal possession of explosives, with an arrest reward of 600,000 pesos ($10,849), while Arsani Membisa is wanted for murder, the police said.

Another suspect, the lookout, has yet to be identified.

($1 = 55.30 Philippine pesos)

(Reporting by Neil Jerome Morales; Editing by Martin Petty and Bernadette Baum)
Maricopa County health inspectors cited three restaurants for 15 health violations during the week of Nov. 17. The violations ranged from an employee touching his face before handling food to sushi rice sitting out too long and having to be thrown away.

A priority violation is a major violation that directly contributes to an increased risk of foodborne illness or injury. If listed in inspection reports, remedies implemented during the inspection are noted.

During the week of Nov. 17, inspectors visited nearly 1,300 restaurants along with other food-serving facilities in hospitals, senior homes and schools. Nearly 200 restaurants received an "A" rating. See a sampling of the many restaurants that inspectors graded "A" at the end of this article.

7 violations

Sun Asian Kitchen, 2070 E. Baseline Road, Phoenix

An employee touched his face in the kitchen area and then proceeded to handle food. The person in charge instructed the employee to properly wash his hands.

A box of locus roots was on the floor below containers of raw chicken and other raw meats in the walk-in refrigerator. The box was relocated at the time of inspection.

A covered container of chicken was cooling in the walk-in refrigerator at 57 F. The cover was removed.

A pan of cooked chicken was sitting out by the grill area at 51 F. Other containers of chicken were at 66 F and 70 F. The cooked chicken was relocated to the walk-in refrigerator. The other containers of chicken were embargoed.

Sushi rice was sitting out at room temperature without any documentation on the available time as a control log. It was discarded.

The dishwasher was sanitizing at between 150 and 200 parts per million of bleach. Employees were told to use the three-compartment sink for washing, rinsing, and sanitizing dishes until the unit could be repaired to sanitize at 50 to 100 ppm bleach.

The spray nozzle for the pre-wash sink by the dishwasher was hanging below the flood rim of the sink. It was replaced with a shorter hose to prevent potential backflow.

4 violations

Angry Crab, 2740 S. Alma School Rd Suite 13, Mesa

An employee grabbed new gloves before washing their hands. Employee washed hands at time of inspection.

Two wells of gravy in the hot holding equipment holding were observed at 127 F-131 F. The gravy was discarded.

Overfilled portioned salads were at 52 F. The salads were placed in the walk-in fridge to cool.

The concentration of sanitizer in the three-compartment sink was above 500 parts per million. The sanitizer for use in food contact surfaces must be maintained between 150-400 ppm. The sanitizer was diluted to 200 ppm.

4 violations

The Kickin' Crab, 1840 W. Chandler Blvd., Suite 5, Chandler

A kitchen employee prepared raw squid rings and shrimp for the fryer, and then prepared plates for service. The employee was asked to discard prepared plates, clean surfaces and wash hands before resuming work.

A cookline employee had barehanded contact with a customer who ordered crab legs for service. The crab legs were pulled from service and discarded.

Raw shrimp and raw clams were overcooked crawfish in the cookline make drawer. Kitchen staff were instructed to place cooked crawfish on top.

Liquid butter batch containers were under the hot holding table at a temperature of between 115 F-120 F. Cookline employee reheated the butter to 165 F.

Grade A restaurants

Phoenix

El Capri, 2135 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix

The Chill Spot, 10215 N. 28th Drive, Suite A, Phoenix

Tacos y Mariscos Topolobampo, 3108 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix

Uncle Bears Grill and Tap, 10625 N. Tatum Blvd., Suite 150, Phoenix

Thunderbird Pho, 13236 N. Seventh St., Suite 1, Phoenix

Scottsdale

Tommy V's Urban Kitchen, 7303 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale

The Lunch Bag, 8989 E. Via Linda St., Suite 116, Scottsdale

Bottled Blonde, 7340 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale

Voila French Bistro, 10135 E. Via Linda, Suite C-120, Scottsdale

Bourbon & Bones, 4200 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale

East Valley

Rili B's Taco Shop, 20870 E. Heritage Loop Road, Suite 100-1, Queen Creek

Yoko Fast Food, 1235 S. Gilbert Road, Suite 1, Mesa

Bourbon Jacks Bar & Grill, 11 W. Boston St., Suite 1, Chandler

Bikini Beans Espresso, 1420 N. Scottsdale Road, Tempe

Native Grill and Wings, 4341 E. Baseline Road Suite 108, Gilbert

West Valley

Qorri's Restaurant, 651 W. Wickenburg Way, Wickenburg

Mi Pueblito Mexican Food Restaurante, 6704 W. Bethany Home Road, Glendale

My Daddy's Bakery & Cafe, 11677 W. Bell Road, Suite 1, Surprise

Babbo Italian Eatery, 15705 W. McDowell Road, Goodyear

Coyote Cabaret, 13724 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale

Source: Maricopa County Environmental Services

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: 3 metro Phoenix restaurant inspections rack up 15 health violations
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has dismissed criticism regarding the inadequate supply of weapons and ammunition to Ukraine, stating that his country is doing everything it can, reported German public broadcaster ZDF on Dec. 5.

It's not the case that we only deliver, and nothing new comes from Russia for the Russian armed forces, said Pistorius.

Read also: EU will deliver 1 million artillery shells it promised to Ukraine  FM Kuleba

Despite sanctions, Russia continues to produce, perhaps not the most modern equipment. Therefore, it is important and necessary to prioritize the sustainability of supplies, especially considering any shortages that may arise.

Germany has now become the second-largest Ukraine supporter by a wide margin ahead of the others, the German minister clarified.

In particular, he highlighted Germany's support of vital areas like air defense, crucial for Ukraine in the second winter of the war.

Read also: Germany announces new military aid package for Ukraine

Pistorius did acknowledge the challenge for the German defense industry to meet certain supply areas as quickly as needed  especially in munitions production and air defense system. Despite this, the Germany defense industry continues to expand capacities wherever possible, he stressed.

It takes time to set up a factory and establish the necessary stockpiles of ammunition and explosives in order to then produce quickly and efficiently, Pistorius said, referring specifically to the production of ammunition for the Gerpard anti-aircraft weapon, which Germany had to restart, though production resumed in six months.

The German defense minister also addressed the impossibility of the EU providing Ukraine with a million artillery rounds by spring 2024, noting that he had warned of this situation long ago.

It's not easy for the defense industry, which comes from peacetime, to produce a million, he said.

Despite this, improvements can be expected in the coming months, as Germany alone will provide Ukraine with almost 200,000 munitions, Pistorius explained, claiming that the key bottleneck was time itself, and not financial or political resources.

Read also: German Chancellor says support for Kyiv of 'existential importance' to Europe

EU foreign ministers approved a plan for joint purchases and the supply of 1 million munitions to Ukraine totaling EUR 2 billion on March 20. The allocation included EUR 1 billion for compensation to member states and another EUR 1 billion for joint munitions purchases, along with increased production capacity in the EU itself.

However, the European Union has informed member states that it is unlikely to fulfill this commitment, U.S. financial news outlet Bloomberg reported.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba confirmed this information, attributing the problem not to a lack of EU political will to support Ukraine but to the deplorable state of the defense industry and bureaucracy.

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
Citrus Heights officers arrested six people Monday on suspicion of retail theft, the Police Department said.

In an operation involving undercover and uniformed detectives, five women and a man were arrested for allegedly stealing more than $2,000 in merchandise from Kohls, Burlington Coat Factory and Ross Dress For Less at a shopping center at San Juan Avenue and Greenback Lane.

Police said this location was chosen because of the high number of thefts at these stores.

The suspects hailed from San Jose, Citrus Heights, Mather and Fair Oaks.

The Citrus Heights Police Departments Impact Unit, in conjunction with allied agencies, will continue to conduct these operations throughout the City with the goal of preventing and deterring thefts from our businesses, the Police Department said in a news release.

Citrus Heights police joined multiple agencies across the region in a retail theft operation Monday. Roseville Police announced they also arrested two men suspected of stealing more than $1,000 in merchandise.
The South Fulton Police Department is asking for your help to identify a man whose remains were located in the woods near an industrial area.

On Sept. 24, a hunter was walking through the woods behind Wheaton Drive off of Fulton Industrial Blvd when he found the remains.

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

Police said it is unknown at this time how long the dead man had been at the scene. He was seen at the location wearing jeans and a T-shirt.

Police believe the man may have been between 36 and 48 years old.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation created a sketch in hopes that someone might be able to identify him.

TRENDING STORIES:

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the South Fulton Police Department.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
A Los Angeles man led Illinois deputies on a chase spanning 115 miles and reaching speeds in excess of 100 mph, authorities said.

Williamson County deputies attempted to stop a vehicle for traffic violations, but the driver failed to yield, the sheriffs office said in a Dec. 5 news release.







Deputies pursued the vehicle for 115 miles along Interstate 57 before the suspect was apprehended in Effingham, according to the release.

During the chase, the driver used the emergency lane to pass tractor-trailers and tried to run law enforcement off the road, deputies said.

Deputies said they recovered about 80 pounds of cannabis and 47 pounds of promethazine, a prescription drug, from the vehicle.

The suspect was booked into the Williamson County Jail, deputies said.

On average, police pursuits in Illinois cover just 3.5 miles, according to data from 866 pursuit reports analyzed by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training & Standards Board.







Williamson County deputies did not immediately respond to McClatchy News on Dec. 6 for comment.

19-year-old biking home from work hit and killed during police chase, Texas cops say

Accused DWI driver abandons his child while fleeing scene of crash, Missouri cops say

Ammo thrown from car during high-speed chase crash, cops say. Man from Florida arrested
The Grinch is a Dr. Seuss character portrayed in the film "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," where he schemes to ruin the holiday. Archive Photos/Getty Images

The Grinch of Ingram Park Mall isn't the only mean one in the city. San Antonio was just named the "Grinchiest" city in the nation by a new survey.

An analysis of holiday attitudes and participation in holiday activities found San Antonio at the bottom of the list when it comes to holiday cheer, according to a report by Casino.org.

The report analyzed Americans on factors like cookie baking, decorations and buying gifts. The survey of holiday habits and sentiment, conducted last month, involved 3,000 Americans ages 18 to 65.

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While Amarillo recently had a Grinch out to spoil holiday magic at a local school, that didn't seem to bring down the rest of Texas.

The Lone Star State came out as one of the more festive states in the country, tied with four other states for the seventh-most festive.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  Police have released the name of the man found shot dead in Grand Rapids earlier this week.

He was identified as Lawrence White Jr., 43, the Grand Rapids Police Department said Wednesday.

Deadly shooting marks 22nd homicide in Grand Rapids

GRPD said an autopsy was completed and the medical examiner ruled the death a homicide.

A jogger spotted White lying along Hall Street near Marshall Avenue around 6 a.m. Monday. When police arrived, they found White had been shot. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police did not have an update on the investigation Wednesday. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call investigators at 616.456.3380 or Silent Observer at 616.774.2345.

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Whites death marked Grand Rapids 22nd homicide of 2023, the same as the total for 2022.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
ARLINGTON, Va. (AP)  The suspect who fired at officers from a duplex in an Arlington, Virginia, neighborhood before the home exploded on Monday night is presumed dead, according to authorities.

Fifty-six-year-old James Yoo was identified by Arlington County Police Chief Andy Penn at a press conference Tuesday as the owner of the duplex and the individual whose actions brought them to the home after firing a flare-type gun from inside the house more than 30 times. Penn said police responded to the house at about 4:45 p.m. Monday after reports of shots fired. After attempts to communicate with Yoo were unsuccessful, police obtained a search warrant.

Terror threat to U.S. at whole other level: FBI Director

As officers tried to enter the home, multiple gunshots were fired from within the house, Penn said. Soon after, the house exploded, Penn said.

The officers escaped serious injury but it was unclear what happened to the suspect who was inside when the building was leveled, Arlington County, Virginia, police spokesperson Ashley Savage said.

Officers went to the home about 4:45 p.m. after receiving reports of shots fired. The preliminary investigation showed that a suspect discharged the flare gun from inside his home, but no property damage or injuries were reported, police said in a statement.

While police investigated, they obtained a search warrant for the home and tried to make contact with the suspect by telephone and loudspeakers, but he remained inside without responding, police said.

As officers tried to execute the warrant, police said the suspect discharged several rounds from what is believed to be a firearm inside the home and around 8:30 p.m. there was an explosion, shooting flames and debris into the air. An investigation into the circumstances of the explosion is ongoing, police said.

Denny Laine of the Moody Blues, Wings dies at 79

Three officers reported minor injuries in the house explosion, but no one was taken to the hospital. Savage said police dont have any evidence that others were in the duplex but cant rule out the possibility.

On Tuesday, officers wearing ATF jackets combed a nearby street looking through papers scattered in the debris field. Junk mail carrying the name and address of the home that exploded was visible on the street.

The White House was monitoring developments with the house explosion, a spokeswoman said.

Our thoughts are with the police officers that were injured in that explosion, Olivia Dalton, the White House principal deputy press secretary, told reporters on Air Force One on Tuesday. Were grateful to law enforcement that handled that situation very swiftly. I can tell you the ATF is assisting with the local law enforcement investigation into that matter but beyond that, I would just refer you to Arlington Police Department.

Carla Rodriguez of South Arlington said she could hear the explosion more than 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) away and came to the scene but police kept onlookers blocks away.

I actually thought a plane exploded, she said.

Bob Maynes thought maybe a tree had fallen on his house when he heard the explosion.

Man wanted for killing NE Ohio woman arrested in Florida: US Marshals

I was sitting in my living room watching television and the whole house shook, Maynes said. It wasnt an earthquake kind of tremor, but the whole house shook.

Arlington is located across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The explosion occurred in Bluemont, a neighborhood in north Arlington where many of the homes are duplexes.

Fire officials do not know the cause of the explosion, said Capt. Nate Hiner, a spokesperson for the Arlington Fire Department.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said federal agents and federal fire investigators were at the scene and assisting in the investigation.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
For more than 25 years, former interior decorator Debbie Ruiz has transformed her and husband Manny's front yard on Norland Street into a curbside Christmas wonderland, where tons of bright little bulbs and big yuletide props light up the block on the North Side near McAllister Park.

This year marks the fourth one that Ruiz is welcoming passersby to "Frosty's Forest," a super-size showcase of inflatable and pop-up snowmen lining the Ruizes' green lawn like bubbly white soldiers.

It's the kind of gonzo display that's literally put the Ruizes and their light-loving neighbors on the map  specifically, Google Maps  as Norland Street Christmas Lights.

The over-the-rooftop displays feature all sorts of themes and designs. "Star Wars" inflatables here. A two-story Nutcracker there. And oh so many lights of the snowy white, candy cane red and Crayola big box variety.

The street goes so Griswold for December that longtime resident Lindal Hardwick made a special trophy for the best home, which he helps judge when he's not zipping around dressed as the Grinch on an ATV designed to look like a sleigh.

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MAN BEHIND THE GRINCH MASK: San Antonio man steals the Christmas show as the Grinch on an ATV sled

There goes the neighborhood all right, right into the pantheon of must-see 'hoods for the holidays in and around San Antonio.

It is a lot of work," said Debbie Ruiz, who holds the current Norland Street title, "but it's very cool to see kids faces as they drive by and hang out the windows. Its just fun."

It's the kind of fun you'll find in various communities in Bexar County. Here are some San Antonio-area neighborhoods that "glow" all out with Christmas lights for the holidays.

A home in Alamo Heights with holiday lights. Rene Guzman/Staff

Alamo Heights

The century-old city up Broadway boasts plenty of posh, classic and contemporary estates with dangling lights and delightful displays to highlight all those large windows and fancy facades. Holiday lights dot the streets, so consider Alamo Heights Boulevard your main access to all these neighborhood wonders. alamoheightstx.gov

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For the holidays, Ashley Dixon and Atticus McCoy transform their Converse home into the Converse Light Show, featuring thousands of pixels synched to music. Courtesy Atticus McCoy

Converse Light Show

Ashley Dixon and Atticus McCoy welcome any and all to their Converse home for their holiday spectacle, which rocks more than 30,000 pixels synched to a playlist of more than 75 songs. Just tune in to 106.1 FM for the music. You can even vote which songs play next at converselightshow.remotefalcon.com. And check out the "Angel Wings" and "sELFie" photo-op stations, too. Just make sure you turn off your headlights and respect the neighbors as you pass through. 6-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 6-9:30pm Sunday through Thursday, 10523 Coyote Hill, facebook.com/ConverseLightShow

Holiday lights and inflatable figures at a home in Monte Vista. Rene Guzman/Staff

Monte Vista

The historic district just north of downtown features holiday light displays as eclectic and upscale as its residential architecture, where cascading lights and inflatable Santas highlight Classic Revival estates and Craftsman bungalows. Look for both on streets such as East Elsmere Place and West Kings Highway. montevistasa.org

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The neighborhood homes in the area of Fawn Glen and Norland Street are lit up with Christmas lights and decorations. Robin Jerstad/Contributor

Norland Street

As noted, Norland hosts its own wide-ranging light shows, which even nearby neighbors such as Alison and Blake Jacks and their two children Elijah, 3, and Roman, 2, can see for the first time.

"Look at their little faces," Ruiz said of the kids when the Jacks family discovered her handiwork during an evening walk. "That's what it's all about."

A home in the Oak Park-Northwood area decorated with holiday lights, a winner in last year's holiday yard display contest held by the Oak Park-Northwood Neighborhood Association. Courtesy Oak Park-Northwood Neighborhood Association

Oak Park-Northwood

This north-of-'09 area with its many ranch houses shaded by oak trees shines with its own share of holiday light displays, which residents turn up extra bright for the annual Winter Wonderland Yard Decorating Contest held by the Oak Park-Northwood Neighborhood Association. opnna.org

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A holiday lights display at a home in Olmos Park. Rene Guzman/Staff

Olmos Park

Wind your way through the neighborhood streets of Olmos Park and youll find plenty of stone cottages and mansions lit up by dangling lights in tree branches and wrapped around tree trunks. Consider Park and Park Hill streets, and mind the cozy curves of Contour Drive. olmospark.org

A Nutcracker-themed holiday light display at a Terrell Hills home on Terrell Road. Rene Guzman/Staff

Terrell Hills

Terrell Hills sprawling mix of Colonial and Spanish Revival homes have their share of mixed and matched light displays, too. On Terrell Road, one corner house features an ornate "Nutcracker"-themed display that would make Tchaikovskys eyes water, while at a home across the street a giant Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer oversees the scene. And the grand lights along Geneseo Road will draw you to the idyllic Geneseo Esplanade with its long row of decorated light posts. terrell-hills.com

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One of the many lit-up homes in the City of Windcrest for its annual Windcrest Light-Up, where residents go all out on their holiday displays. Courtesy City of Windcrest

Windcrest

It isn't Christmastime in San Antonio without a drive through nearby Windcrest for its annual Light-Up, where hundreds of residents transform their homes into elaborate tableaus of lights, animatronics and music. This years theme is Twas the Night Before Christmas, in honor of the classic poems 200th anniversary. So grab a map from a Windcrest firefighter or from City Hall, 8601 Midcrown Drive, then buckle up for a long, leisurely trek past all the light shows. windcrest-tx.gov
Former SAPD Officer Andre Vargas at an arbitration hearing Wednesday. Vargas was fired in 2020 for allegedly using excessive force in arresting a suspect. He is trying to get his job back through arbitration. William Luther

A retired deputy Dallas police chief testified that a San Antonio officer dismissed for using excessive force against a suspect  firing a stun gun and later lifting the handcuffed man off the ground by his arm  had ways to "de-escalate" the encounter but didn't use them.

Craig Miller, a use-of-force expert retained by the city of San Antonio, said then-SAPD Officer Andre Vargas could have held the suspect at gunpoint and waited until backup arrived.

Miller also said Vargas, who ordered the suspect out of his car, could instead have let the man sit in the car and talked to him over a PA system.

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"He could have been in a position to de-escalate the situation," Miller testified Wednesday during an arbitration hearing that will determine whether Vargas gets his job back. There are multiple ways that he could have handled this call.

READ MORE: Witness says SAPD officer accused of excessive force used Taser exactly as intended

Ben Sifuentes, an attorney representing Vargas, questioned that logic. He asked how Vargas could have known that backup was nearby, or whether the suspect had a gun in his car that he could easily access. He also pointed out that case law gives officers wide latitude in use of force  and that a court can't use hindsight in determining whether an officer acted reasonably.

Former SAPD Officer Andre Vargas at an arbitration hearing Wednesday. Vargas was fired in 2020 for allegedly using excessive force in arresting a suspect. He is trying to get his job back through arbitration. William Luther

"Officers know where their cover is, " Miller responded. "That's a cop knowing how cops operate."

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Fired San Antonio police officer Andre Vargas, left, and his attorney, Ben Sifuentes, watch Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, as SAPD Capt. Jason Engquist is sworn-in during the second day of VargasOs arbitration hearing. Vargas is accused of using excessive force during the arrest of a suspect in 2019. William Luther Fired San Antonio police officer Andre VargasOs attorney Ben Sifuentes raises an objection Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, during the second day of VargasOs arbitration hearing. Vargas is accused of using excessive force during the arrest of a suspect in 2019. William Luther Fired San Antonio police officer Andre Vargas, left, hands documents Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, to his attorney, Ben Sifuentes, during the second day of his arbitration hearing. Vargas is accused of using excessive force during the arrest of a suspect in 2019. William Luther Gus Guzman, retired San Antonio Police Department deputy chief, raises his hand Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, as he is sworn in to testify during the second day of fired San Antonio police officer Andre VargasOs arbitration hearing. Vargas is accused of using excessive force during the arrest of a suspect in 2019. Fired San Antonio police officer Andre VargasOs William Luther

Vargas, a 4-year SAPD veteran, was fired in 2020 after Police Chief William McManus determined that he used excessive force in arresting 30-year-old Matthew Garza.

Vargas is trying to get his job back through arbitration, with back pay and benefits. An independent arbitrator began hearing testimony in June; the proceeding resumed this week after being put on hold because of scheduling conflicts. A decision is expected within the next few months.

READ MORE: FBI reviewing actions of four San Antonio officers accused of using excessive force

On Nov. 26, 2019, Vargas was dispatched to Commercial Avenue and Grosvenor Boulevard on the South Side after a bystander called police and said a man, later identified as Garza, was arguing with a woman over custody of their child. At one point, the bystander said it appeared Garza was attempting to take the child.

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After Vargas and Officer Michael Brewer arrived, Garza, who was in his vehicle, started to speed away, police said.

One of the officers blocked Garza with his car, drew his firearm and ordered Garza out of the vehicle. The officers said Garza approached them on foot and did not comply with orders.

At that point, Vargas fired at Garza with a Taser, according to a police report.

Craig Miller, a retired deputy police chief in Dallas, is seen on a video screen at an arbitration hearing for former SAPD Officer Andre Vargas (seated). Vargas was fired in 2020 for allegedly using excessive force in arresting a suspect. He is trying to get his job back through arbitration. Miller, testifying as a use-of-force expert for the city of San Antonio, said Vargas could have tried to "de-escalate" the situation before resorting to his Taser. William Luther

After a brief struggle, the officers detained Garza and placed him in handcuffs. Brewer then placed his left knee on Garzas head and neck, according to police.

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In disciplinary records, McManus said Brewers actions were unnecessary because Garza was no longer resisting.

The department also alleged that Vargas use of the Taser far exceeded the reasonable force necessary to accomplish the arrest.

It said Vargas then lifted the handcuffed Garza off the ground by his arm, causing him unnecessary and unwanted pain, and that Vargas used vulgar language throughout the arrest.

Garza filed a complaint with the departments Internal Affairs Unit, triggering an investigation that led to the firings of Brewer and Vargas.

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Brewer was criminally charged in connection with Garzas arrest. A judge dismissed the case earlier this year.

Vargas was not criminally charged.

Miller, the use of force expert from Dallas, said Vargas' quick response once he arrived on scene was concerning.

"The amount of time between him stepping out of the car, how he pulled his gun and switched to a Taser  that was concerning," Miller said. "Was the person aggressively resisting, which would prompt the use of the Taser?"

Miller acknowledge that body-worn camera footage shows Garza taking steps toward the officer. But he said the suspect did not appear threatening.

"I did not see aggressive, active resistance," Miller said. "Thats what I saw, and I think thats what Chief McManus saw too."

But Gus Guzman, a retired deputy chief of the San Antonio Police Department, said he thought Vargas' firing was unwarranted. He pointed to other cases of officer misconduct in which McManus issued milder discipline.

My opinion based on the facts and circumstances of this case was that termination was excessive," said Guzman, who was called as an expert by the defense.
Austin's MetroRail commuter line along Airport Boulevard near 45th Street. Ralph Barrera/Austin American-Statesman

Taking a train to see the Spurs play could be in the near future for Austin residents with the announcement that two county judges are working toward reviving the failed plans for a passenger rail between Austin and San Antonio.

Travis County Judge Andy Brown and Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai announced the collaboration after participating in a panel hosted by the Austin Area Research Organization on uniting the two cities in a "super-region."

"Andy and I are working together so that we can get Travis County and Bexar County to get all the fans to watch the San Antonio Spurs without going through IH-35," Sakai said in a video statement.

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The subject of an Austin-San Antonio rail project left a bad taste in leaders' mouths after the demise of the Lone Star Rail District in 2016. Even after 13 years and $25 million in mostly taxpayer dollars, the project was halted because the Union Pacific Railroad wouldn't agree to share tracks with the proposed rail line.

Sakai himself seemed skeptical this summer about bringing back the passenger rail, but an appetite for it persists.
A 21-year-old man driving a Jeep with a fake license plate led police on a 10-mile chase through Queens until he crashed into another car and overturned, cops said Wednesday.

The crash came as cops switch up their tactics on handling police pursuits after a handful of headline-grabbing incidents, including one in August when a driver in a stolen car fleeing police injured 10 people after he careened across a busy Manhattan sidewalk.

Police spotted the 2020 Jeep SUV idling outside an ATM at Merrick Blvd. and Francis Lewis Blvd. in Laurelton around 11 p.m. Tuesday, cops said.

Wondering if the driver had something to do with a string of ATM robberies in the area, cops tried to pull the Jeep over but driver Ethan Sohan sped off into the night, officials said.

Sohan jumped on the Cross Island Parkway and sped north, cops said, shutting off his headlights as he zipped in and out of traffic and putting other drivers at risk, police said.

He exited the parkway near the UBS Arena and, still with his headlights off, starts barreling down residential streets, forcing a handful of people to dodge out of the way, according to cops.

As he neared the corner of 209th St. and 35th Ave. in Queens Village he sideswiped a Nissan Altima and overturned, ultimately crashing into a parked car, police said.

Neither he nor his passenger were harmed, cops said.

The 47-year-old man driving the Nissan suffered a minor injury and was taken to New York-Presbyterian Hospital Queens for care, police said.

Cops charged Sohan with vehicular assault, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief and driving a vehicle with a forged license plate. He was not immediately linked to the ATM robbery spree, cops said. His passenger was released without charges.

Sohan lives in Queens Village, according to cops.

It was not immediately clear if one NYPD cruiser was pursuing Sohans Jeep the entire time or if the officers had radioed ahead and other NYPD officers picked up the tail.

An email to the NYPD regarding the tactics in the pursuit were not immediately returned.

The NYPD has no formal definition of a vehicle pursuit  although a working group should have one by years end  and has no data regarding how many chases officers have been involved in.

The department this past summer tweaked its approach to vehicle pursuits, opting to use drones and other forms of technology to track fleeing suspects, particularly those sought for less serious crimes. Cops are also communicating more with suburban authorities about suspects heading into or out of the city and opting when possible to have cops create roadblocks ahead of a suspect rather than speed behind them.

The measures, put in place to reduce the risks posed by chases, were taken after several cop car crashes occurred following a public pronouncement that police were not going to let fleeing suspects get a pass.

People thinking they can take off on us  those days are over, NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell said at a news conference in July, The days of driving around this city, lawless, doing what you think youre going to do  those days are over.

By the end of October, 30 cops have been warned and received intervention by NYPD brass about how they conduct car chases yet more needs to be done, critics have said.
A man who police say committed a dozen rapes over nine years was arrested by the Raleigh Police Department on Tuesday.

Rickey Hall, 59, faces charges of first-degree rape, first-degree sexual assault, assault with a deadly weapon and kidnapping for 12 rapes allegedly committed between 1995 and 2004.

The cold-case arrest came after a match from the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), a local, state and federal database of DNA profiles from convicted offenders, unsolved-crime-scene evidence, and missing persons, police said in a news release.

At least 10 different female victims are identified in arrest warrants, some of whom said they were kidnapped and assaulted more than once. Several said Hall threatened to kill them if they fought him or reported their assaults.

Hall is being held in jail without bail and was appointed a public defender in Wake County court on Wednesday afternoon, court records show.

He has been charged with:

15 counts of first-degree sexual assault

12 counts of first-degree rape

10 counts of first-degree kidnapping

7 counts of assault serious bodily injury

6 counts of communicating threats

5 counts of assault with a deadly weapon

4 counts of assault on a female

1 count of common law robbery

1 count of sexual assault

Sexual assault kit testing

The evidence in this case was included as part of the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative, a statewide effort to test more kits, initiated by the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation in 2019, the release stated.

In a statement, N.C. Attorney General Josh Stein congratulated Raleigh police on making an arrest in these cases.

I also want to commend the scientists at the State Crime Lab for their hard work to test evidence and give law enforcement the tools they need to move cases forward, Stein said. We know that theres always a possibility that criminals who arent caught will commit the same crimes again, so were working to solve cold cases, get justice for survivors, and get violent offenders of our streets.

The arrest, Stein said, points to the importance of the CODIS database.

There were 232 CODIS hits, or positive matches, in October of this year, according to Stein. It is a monthly record. At least 165 of the hits were linked to sexual assaults.

CODIS can match DNA samples to potential suspects of different types of crimes.

About 83% of the 1,584 sexual assault kits in the Wake County database since 2019 have now been tested, or 1,318 kits.

There have been 26 arrests since 2019 made in Wake County sexual assault cases through positive DNA matches in CODIS.

Rape clearance rates

Local police departments and victim support centers say rape is a hard crime to solve due to long investigations, a backlog of untested sexual assault kits submitted to law enforcement agencies, and victims afraid to report their crime.

In Raleigh, the rape clearance rate in 2022 was 42%, up from 37% in 2021, according to police. The News & Observer has asked police for updated reported rape data and clearance rates.

Sexual assaults may take months to investigate and years to close, and clearance rates may increase over time, police spokesman Lt. Jason Borneo told The N&O.

More than half  about 60%  of clients at the InterAct of Wake County, a rape crisis center, report their sexual assaults to law enforcement, The N&O reported previously.

In Durham, where reported rapes are up by 22% compared to this time last year, at least 10 people have been convicted of sexual assault crimes through SAKI, according to the Durham County District Attorneys Office.

Rather than more rapes occurring now, an increase in reported rapes can indicate more victims reporting assaults committed months and even years ago, according to police.

If you need help

 InterActs crisis line in Wake County is available 24 hours a day in English at 919-828-7740 and in Spanish at 844-203-8896. Find other resources on InterActs website at https://interactofwake.org/.

Counselors are also available from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday.

 The Durham Crisis Response Center offers a 24-hour helpline and offers various resources on its website at https://thedcrc.org/. The centers helpline is available in English at 919-403-6562 and in Spanish at 919-519-3735.

 Orange County Rape Crisis Centers helpline is open 24 hours at 919-967-7273. Other resources can be found in English and Spanish on the organizations website at https://ocrcc.org/.

 RAINNs national sexual assault hotline is open 24 hours a day at 1-800-656-4673.
One local couple is living without a heater or an air conditioner in their home.

It's not a bad thing, thanks to the home's design which relies on its self-sustaining architecture and an incredibly efficient insulation made of old tires to keep it warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Their research about sustainable architecture led them to the work of Michael Reynolds, a New Mexico-based architect whos pioneered the design and construction of sustainable homes he calls Earthships" through his company Earthship Biotecture.

A big part of the home's appeal is its Red Creek Ranch location with "million dollar views," said Susan Wicks.

Building the home and living in it during the past year has been a lifelong dream come true for Matt and Susan Wicks.

The three-bedroom, two-bath, 2,648-square-foot home includes an indoor greenhouse, sits on 35 acres and also features a 2,400-square-foot three-car garage. Their Red Creek Ranch home west of the Pueblo Reservoir has nearly everything the eco-friendly couple could want.

Now they are hoping to find new owners who will love it as much as they have. The couple has decided to sell the home to return to the Denver area to be closer to family.

"We put our heart and soul into the house and it took a lot of time and energy and money to build it. We wanted a self-sustaining, self-reliant home and even though it is not going to be our lifelong home, it was our passion to build it," Susan Wicks said.

"Now we are hoping to pass that passion on to someone else," she explained. "It will ease the sting of selling it if we can share it with someone else who has the same enthusiasm."

Susan Wicks measures cabinet space in the kitchen area of an eco-friendly home she and her husband Matt were building in west Pueblo County on Saturday, April 23, 2022.

What is it like to live in an Earthship-style home?

Earthship homes are built with natural and repurposed materials like old tires and glass bottles and are designed to function independently and completely off-grid. Solar panels soon will be completed and that means there will be zero utility bills at the Wicks home.

Right now, the only utility bill is for San Isabel Electric and that is about $100 a month, Susan Wicks said. There's no water bill either and no need to truck in water because rainwater is captured by a collection system.

"We have plenty of water," she explained. "I really enjoy not having a furnace  I hate how it dries out the air, dries up your skin and makes it real uncomfortable  plus with no furnace, we have no carbon emissions," she explained.

The Wicks' Earthship home in Red Creek Ranch features a natural wood ceiling and a kitchen that looks out to the greenhouse.

She was reminded how much noise a furnace can make while house-sitting for some neighbors recently. She cherishes her quiet home and its constant comfortable temperature.

"It takes about a year to get to know the house and when to open and close the windows and drapes," to take advantage of its passive solar features, she said.

The home also has an 800-square-foot greenhouse at its front where the windows let in plenty of sunlight so the new owners can grow their own vegetables and pick what's fresh for dinner.

This aerial view shows the Earthship home, the huge garage and the view of Pikes Peak.

The 'million-dollar' view

The property is bordered by public land and has a view of Pueblo Reservoir and Pikes Peak.

"There is even a small canyon running through the property," said Kara Grossling, realtor.

"We looked at over 100 places and when we first looked at this site we thought it was too far away from town but the views are spectacular. It is for sure a million-dollar view," Susan Wicks said.

"The land is amazing. The neighbors are incredible  almost like family ... I love Pueblo and it's going to be really hard to leave it behind, but I know we will be back," she said.

The asking price for the Wicks' Earthship home is $799,000. To see the complete listing with photos and video, go to nate-designs-inc.aryeo.com.

The north side of the Wicks' eco-friendly home in western Pueblo county is constructed of a wall of tires and dirt that will be covered in adobe.

Earthship homes are not common in Pueblo County

Pueblo Regional Building Department Chief Building Official Mark Guerrero said his department doesn't track energy efficient homes by code, so it's difficult to know exactly how many homes there are like the Wicks' in Pueblo County. His staff reported there are at least a few of them, and one is currently under construction in the 5000 block of Burnt Mill Road.

"Our staff has been impressed with the science of the 'Earthship.' It easily meets minimum requirements of the energy code, specifically insulation, which we must review for compliance," Guerrero, a registered architect, explained.

Some of the recycled glass in the Earthship home doubles as eyecatching decor.

More on the home: Heaven on Earth: Couple build their dream home in Pueblo with sustainability in mind

Chieftain reporter Tracy Harmon covers business news. She can be reached by email at tharmon@chieftain.com or via X, formerly Twitter, at twitter.com/tracywumps. Support local news, subscribe to The Pueblo Chieftain at subscribe.chieftain.com.

This article originally appeared on The Pueblo Chieftain: Rare eco-friendly Earthship-style home hits market in Pueblo, Colorado
Police gather at the Redondo Union campus after a report  for the second day in a row  of a student who brought a loaded firearm and high-capacity magazine to school. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

A 10th-grader was arrested Tuesday after bringing a loaded firearm onto the campus of a Redondo Beach high school, officials say.

The same thing happened Monday.

Classes at Redondo Union High School will be canceled Wednesday after the second incident in as many days in which a student brought a loaded weapon to school, officials said. Tuesday's incident included a false report of a school shooting.

In both cases, officers with the Redondo Beach Police Department said they had apprehended a 15-year-old sophomore who was carrying a loaded firearm and a high-capacity magazine on campus  although in each case, police said, there was "no evidence of a specific threat or plan for violence."

Tuesday's incident was reported to police at 9:23 a.m. as a student with a weapon.

Read more: Crowbar-wielding man damages at least 30 vehicles in Koreatown

Officers were already on campus as security had been beefed up after Monday's arrest, and said they found the student with the firearm within minutes. The student tried running away from police, according to the department, prompting a school lockdown that lasted less than 40 minutes.

The student was apprehended by a school employee and two police officers. No injuries were reported during the incident, and police said that earlier reports of shots fired or a school shooting were false.

Monday's arrest occurred around 10:30 a.m. at the school located at 1 Sea Hawk Way. The campus, which had over 3,100 students enrolled as of 2021, is the only high school in the district.

Administrators had contacted police on Monday, saying students reported a teen with a gun on campus. Police responded and arrested the male student, who was not identified because he is a minor.

In both cases, the suspects were arrested on suspicion of multiple firearm violations, including being a juvenile with a firearm, possessing a firearm on school grounds, having a high-capacity magazine, carrying a loaded firearm in public and possessing an unregistered loaded firearm.

Police gave no details about the type of firearm carried by each student, nor did they say how the students acquired their firearms, citing the ongoing investigation. Investigators have neither confirmed nor denied whether the two incidents are related.

Parents expressed fear and exhaustion over the events of the last 48 hours.

"My body right now is just retaining all the stress from the last two days," said Aggie Kurzyna, whose daughter attends Redondo Union High School.

Kurzyna told The Times she had to take a day off work Tuesday after her daughter texted that the school was in lockdown. She said her mind was racing about the tragic possibilities, including a possible school shooting.

"We live in the United States, where this is a common occurrence," Kurzyna said. "Today ... it really hit home."

Officials with the Redondo Beach Unified School District will host an online meeting at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday to discuss the incidents and safety protocols for Redondo Union High School.

"The two back-to-back incidents are something we would have never imagined," district officials said in a statement. "We are going to need to work together to solve the issue of access to guns."

Read more: Los Angeles-to-Baltimore drug pipeline behind triple homicide in Porter Ranch, prosecutors say

The campus closure on Wednesday will allow Redondo Beach police to sweep the campus for weapons and explosives, school officials said.

When school resumes on Thursday, only three entry points will be open on the campus, and each will be monitored by police officers and school administrators. Police will also perform additional patrols at the high school and all other campuses within the school district.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Domatilia Caal is consoled Wednesday by her brother, Cornelio Caal, at the site on Shadywood Lane in South Austin where her husband was killed on Tuesday. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Scene at double fatal shooting at 6403 Port Royal on Wednesday. Ronald Cortes/Contributor Domatilia Caal is consoled Wednesday by brother Cornelio Caal and sister Filomena Caal at the site on Shadywood Lane in South Austin where her husband was killed on Tuesday. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales and Sheriff Javier Salazar hold a news conference Wednesday on at double fatal shooting at 6403 Port Royal. Ronald Cortes/Contributor A crime scene technician photographs a traffic accident in the intersection of FM 1826 and Texas 45 not far from the shooting in the Circle C Ranch neighborhood in Southwest Austin on Tuesday. Authorities say a daylong series of attacks in Austin has left four people dead and at least three injured, and a man believed to be connected to them and the deaths of two people near San Antonio was taken into custody. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Shane James Jr., 34, was charged with capital murder of multiple people and booked into the Travis County Jail at 1:32 a.m. Wednesday. Austin Police Department Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales and Sheriff Javier Salazar hold a news conference Wednesday on at double fatal shooting at 6403 Port Royal. Ronald Cortes/Contributor Neighborhood residents speak to Austin Police officers late Tuesday. Texas authorities say a daylong series of attacks in Austin has left four people dead and at least three injured, and a man believed to be connected to them and the deaths of two people near San Antonio was taken into custody. Sara Diggins/Associated Press

The man accused of killing six people and injuring three more in a deadly shooting spree was dishonorably discharged from the military in 2015 because of a domestic violence incident, according to authorities.

Police believe Shane Matthew James Jr. killed his parents at their home in northeastern Bexar County before driving to Austin on Tuesday and fatally shooting four more people.

James, 34, was charged with capital murder of multiple people and booked into the Travis County Jail early Wednesday. Charges for the double homicide in Bexar County are pending.

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Three others in Austin were injured  a cyclist, an Austin Independent School District officer and an Austin police officer. All are expected to recover. The names of the four people killed were not immediately released.

After James was arrested Tuesday night, Austin police told the Bexar County Sheriffs Office a home in the 6400 block of Port Royal Street might be linked to the shootings that had rocked the state capital throughout the day.

Deputies then found Shane James Sr., 56, and Phyllis James, 55, dead in the house. They had been shot, and their bodies were dragged into a small room, where they were wedged against the door.

No one deserves to die the way we believe they died, said Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar.

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When deputies arrived, the sheriff said water was leaking from the home. Its unclear if the water was connected to the violence inside the house, but Salazar said the carpet was wet.

Investigators believe the couple was killed between 10 p.m. Monday  the last time a loved one talked to them  and 9 a.m. the following day, when a neighbor noticed Shane James Sr.s car was missing from the driveway.

Salazar asked neighbors in the area to check their Ring doorbell videos for James Sr.s car  a gray Nissan sedan  to help narrow down the time.

The house was familiar to Bexar County authorities. James Jr. had three outstanding warrants for assault with injury-family violence stemming from a report in January 2022. The assaults were on James parents and a sibling. District Attorney Joe Gonzales said Tuesday the injuries included a scratch and involved pushing.

A week after the 2022 arrest, a victims advocate for the sheriffs office said the family did not think James belonged in jail because they said he had mental health problems, according to Salazar.

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James bond conditions were altered from having no contact with his family to no harmful or threatening contact with his family, allowing him to return home once he was released from jail on March 7. The Texas Organizing Project helped get his bond reduced from $500 for each charge to $100.

The next day, James cut off his ankle monitor, triggering an arrest warrant for his three misdemeanor assault charges, Salazar said.

In August, deputies were called to the home again for a mental health episode involving James.

His father told deputies that James was behaving erratically and was holed up naked in his bedroom. At the time, deputies were aware that James had three active warrants.

Deputies went to the bedroom and knocked, but James did not respond, and the door was locked. Salazar said James father then attempted to break the door open but could open it only a little, allowing deputies to speak to James through the door.

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Salazar said the deputies could not force their way in because his warrants were for misdemeanors.

Later, deputies told James father to call them back if James ever came out of the bedroom so that he could be arrested. Salazar said the deputies never received a call back.

Neighbor Richard Powell said they didnt hear anything suspicious coming from the house around the time of the deaths in the quiet community. Salazar said none of the neighbors heard gunshots.

This was the first time we ever heard of something like this, Powell said. I never thought it would happen.

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His brother, Tyrone Powell, said James Jr. didnt come out of the house much.

I know hes a little disturbed, Tyrone Powell said. He was in the Army, then got kicked out.

The brothers mother, Laverne Powell, has been living in her current home since 2001. She said she had been neighbors with the Jameses for 13 years. James Sr. was retired military and a real good man, she said.

She added that James Jr. moved into the house about five or six years ago.

The family said they knew from conversations with his father that James was suffering from some type of mental illness.

There were reports of shootings around Austin on Tuesday, but Austin Interim Police Chief Robin Henderson said authorities werent able to link the incidents together until the final shooting. Salazar said he knew of no rhyme or reason for James to target the victims in Austin.

The chaos began around 11 a.m. when an Austin Independent School District officer was shot and injured near Northeast Early College High School.

Then, Henderson said police discovered a double homicide around noon at a home in South Austin involving a man and woman. One was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other died in the hospital.

Around 5 p.m., a cyclist was shot in South Austin and sustained injuries that were not life-threatening.

A couple of hours later, police responded to a burglary in progress at a home in Southwest Austin where a man opened fire on the responding officer, Henderson said. The officer suffered multiple gunshot wounds, and the shooter fled in a vehicle. The officer is in stable condition.

Officers pursued the gunman, who was taken into custody after crashing his vehicle, Henderson said.

Inside the home, police found two people who were pronounced dead at the scene.

Few details were released about James, but at one time, he was an insurance salesman certified in Mansfield, in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, though his current address is listed as the home on Port Royal in northeast Bexar County.

According to his LinkedIn page, James most recently was a manager at a carwash. It lists his military experience as an officer in the Army at Fort Hood from May 2014 through September 2015.

In 2020, he entered a training program in Laredo to obtain a commercial drivers license, but he wasnt hired as a trucker for medical reasons.

Gov. Greg Abbott released a statement Wednesday promising to "provide all resources necessary to impose the full weight of law on this criminal for his despicable crimes.
House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan has sent another letter to Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis saying he and the House Administration Committee would be investigating any cooperation between her, her office, and the former House Jan. 6 committee.

Although we were aware that your office had coordinated its politically motivated prosecutions with the Office of Special Counsel Jack Smith, we recently learned that your office also coordinated its investigative actions with the partisan Select Committee to Investigate the January 6 Attack on the United States Capitol, the letter said.

Jordan cited what he said was a letter Willis sent to the panels chairman, Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., seeking access to recordings and transcripts of witness interviews and other records in December 2021.

In the letter dated Tuesday, Jordan requested any communications between Willis office and the congressional committee and any documents her office had obtained from the panel.

Rep. Barry Loudermilk has also sent a letter to Thompsons office asking for communications, as well as detailed lists of all people interviewed or deposed by the committee and copies of any records sent to others.

This new information raises questions about Willis and Thompsons commitment to due process, and whether House Rules were violated when the Select Committee failed to properly disclose this material, Loudermilk wrote in a post on his Facebook page. We have serious concerns about this behavior, and we are seeking the truth.

RELATED NEWS:

The move is just the latest by Jordan to investigate Willis after the indictment was handed up against former President Donald Trump and 18 others, accusing them of conspiring to overturn the 2020 election in Georgia. So far, four of the defendants have taken plea deals in the case.

In August, Jordan sent a letter to Willis demanding information of possible communications between officials with the Department of Justice and the Executive Branch over the indictment of Trump.

The American people are entitled to know, Jordan told WSB Radios Mark Arum during the recording of his show at the time. I think its important we get all the facts out there on the table for the American people and also that we do our jobs.

Willis shot back, saying Jordans letter to her office at the time was an obvious attempt to obstruct a Georgia criminal proceeding and to advance outrageous partisan misrepresentations.

The demands in your letterand your efforts at intruding upon the State of Georgias criminal authorityviolate constitutional principles of federalism. Criminal prosecutions under state law are primarily the responsibility of state governments, Willis wrote.

Channel 2 Action News has contacted Thompson and Willis offices for a response to the letters and is waiting to hear back.

RELATED NEWS:
Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield), shown speaking to reporters in Washington on Oct. 19, has announced he will leave the House by the end of the year. (Jose Luis Magana / Associated Press)

U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy's decision to retire is not a surprise after he became the first speaker of the House to be ousted by a vote of the chamber, and provides a rare opportunity for an ambitious California Republican to seek higher office.

In a state where Democratic voters outnumber Republicans by about 2 to 1, only 12 of the 54 politicians representing the state in Washington are in the GOP  so those openings don't surface often.

Read more: Kevin McCarthy will retire from Congress at end of year

McCarthy, 58, has had the good fortune of representing one of the most conservative congressional districts in a state dominated by Democrats. Former President Trump won the district by a near 2-to-1 margin over President Biden in 2020.

So whoever voters pick might stick around for a while.

After serving as Republican leader in the California Assembly, McCarthy in 2006 became one of the few GOP newcomers to be elected to Congress in a year Democrats swept Republicans out of power. There might be some deja vu in the future.

One Republican who already has announced a bid to succeed McCarthy also represents the Bakersfield area in the state Legislature: Assemblymember Vince Fong. Fong served as district director for McCarthy before being elected as a state lawmaker. State Sen. Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield), a former minority leader in the California Senate and loyal Trump supporter, was considered as a front runner to replace McCarthy but announced she was not entering the race.

Read more: Bakersfield Assemblyman Vince Fong will run to replace Kevin McCarthy in Congress

The vacancy also may tempt some former members of Congress who represented districts in the Central Valley. Devin Nunes, a Trump supporter who now serves as chief executive of his media company, still has $11 million socked away in a congressional campaign account, according to the latest report filed with the Federal Election Commission.

Bakersfield is the city with the most voters in McCarthy's 20th Congressional District, which includes portions of Fresno, Kern, Kings and Tulare counties in the San Joaquin Valley. Along with the southern tip of the Sierra Nevada and a sliver of the Mojave Desert, the district swallows up a major portion of California oil country and some of the most productive  and lucrative  farmland in the nation.

So who will represent this vast district?

Running

Assemblymember Vince Fong (R-Bakersfield). (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press)

Assemblymember Vince Fong, 44, Republican

First elected to the Assembly in 2016, Fong serves as the vice chair of the budget and transportation committees.

The Bakersfield Republican began his career in politics as a staff member for longtime Bakersfield Rep. Bill Thomas, who served as a chair of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, where Fong worked on international trade policy. Fong then served as McCarthy's district director, advising the congressman on issues affecting the Central Valley and helping serve constituents.

Fong has been a vocal critic of Gov. Gavin Newsom's push for restricting oil production in California and the administration's overall energy policies, and has warned that the state's electricity grid is not capable of supporting the administration's mandated transition to electric vehicles. Fong also has criticized the spending policies of state money by Newsom and the California Legislature's Democratic leadership.

POSSIBLE CANDIDATES

Fresno County Supervisor Nathan Magsig, 47, Republican

Fresno County Supervisor Nathan Magsig is a former youth pastor who also served as mayor of Clovis. (Craig Kohlruss / Fresno Bee / TNS)

Republican Nathan Magsig is a member of the Fresno County Board of Supervisors who unsuccessfully ran for Congress last year for the seat occupied by Rep. Tom McClintock (R-Elk Grove).

He has acted as a conservative firebrand in the Fresno area, voting earlier this year to sue the state of California over a law that requires cities to eliminate the Native American slur squaw from geographic features and place names. He has also echoed Trumpisms about unfounded election fraud claims .

The former youth pastor who also served as mayor of conservative Clovis was a staunch McCarthy supporter, telling The Times earlier this month: My focus now is to show my support for him.

Wild cards and long shots

Rep. David Valadao (R-Hanford)



Former Rep. Devin Nunes, Republican



Former Rep. Connie Conway, Republican



John Burrows, Democrat



Andy Morales, Democrat

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(Bloomberg) -- Venezuela is in advanced talks on new deals with European energy majors Repsol SA and Eni SpA as the Andean nation seeks to reassert itself as a global oil producer after the US eased sanctions.

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The Spanish and Italian companies are hammering out contract terms between their oil ventures and state-owned Petroleos de Venezuela SA, according to three people familiar with the deals who arent authorized to speak publicly. Two of them say an agreement could be reached by the end of the year.

In return, the European majors are hoping to secure exports from a key project that has rights to the largest offshore gas field in South America. Theyre also seeking more operational and finance controls from their ventures, hoping to catch up with Chevron Corp. after the US driller was granted a special license to resume production in Venezuela late last year.

Last month, Etablissements Maurel & Prom SA of France became the first European company to sign a contract with PDVSA after the Biden administration suspended sanctions in exchange for electoral guarantees from the Venezuelan government ahead of next years presidential vote.

With markets thirsty to add more barrels from the country with the largest oil reserves in the world, Venezuela is expected to both expand its output and steer more of its existing production to refineries in the US. That could help contain gasoline prices stateside as President Joe Biden campaigns for reelection in 2024.

Nicolas Maduros regime, however, has done the bare minimum to keep up its side of the bargain with the US. It hasnt yet released political prisoners, prompting Biden officials to assess the potential need to reimpose sanctions. Maduro is also ratcheting up tensions with neighboring Guyana, signaling his intent to grant exploration licenses in the disputed oil-rich Essequibo region after holding a referendum on annexation.

Repsol sent a negotiating team to Caracas in November for talks on the contracts and to explore new options to secure access to heavy crude for its oil refineries in Spain, two of the people said. Negotiations will likely hinge on compromises that boost production for both Repsol and PDVSA.

The Madrid-based company also reviewed long term debt owed by PDVSA for oil and gas sales. This includes debt accrued by PDVSA on natural gas sales from the offshore Cardon IV venture that Repsol runs in equal partnership with Rome-based Eni. The project satisfies nearly a third of Venezuelas natural gas demand, according to Ruben Perez, director at Chemstrategy, an energy consultancy in Caracas.

Eni runs five oil ventures in Venezuela, while Repsol operates four. PDVSA has more than 40 oil partnerships with foreign and local companies, some of whom have suspended activity due to the difficult business climate.

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(Bloomberg) -- Republican Kevin McCarthy, whose brief and tumultuous turn leading the US House culminated in the first successful vote to oust a speaker, said Wednesday he will resign from Congress at the end of the year.

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He wrote in a Wall Street Journal opinion article announcing his plans that he intends to serve America in new ways.

The 58-year-old California Republican styled himself as part of an emerging generation of Young Gun conservative leaders when Tea Party Republicans swept into power in 2010. Yet by the time he realized his ambition to become speaker McCarthy was viewed suspiciously by an ascendant populist right aligned with Donald Trump.

His departure, announced after Republican George Santos was expelled from the House last week, will cost the narrow GOP majority one more vote at least temporarily.

His seat in a heavily Republican district may be filled by a special election depending on when McCarthy submits his formal resignation. California law gives Governor Gavin Newsom some discretion on whether and when to call for a special election if McCarthy does not meet a December 8 deadline.

A Newsom spokesperson said Wednesday that the the governor was awaiting specifics from McCarthy about his planned departure.

The district in Californias Central Valley is a fertile agricultural region and the center of the states oil industry. Potential contenders to succeed McCarthy include Republican Devin Nunes, who left Congress to run Trumps Truth Social online media platform, and state senator Shannon Grove, a former party leader of state senate Republicans, both outspoken Trump supporters. Another possible candidate is state assembly member Vince Fong, a former McCarthy aide.

McCarthy announced his plans to depart Congress barely two months after he lost his leadership post.

He expressed mixed feelings about remaining in Congress at a New York Times Dealbook conference on Nov. 29.

If I decide to run again, I have to know in my heart Im giving 110%, he said. Look, if you just got thrown out as speaker, you go through different stages, would you not? And then youve got to turn around and make a decision.

It took an extraordinary 15 rounds of voting for McCarthy to muster the support to be elected speaker in January and the defection of just eight dissident conservatives to topple him nine months later.

McCarthy was dogged during his speakership by bitter ideological divisions among House Republicans and the partys slender majority, which allowed him to lose only a handful of lawmakers on party-line votes.

He maintained an unsteady alliance of convenience with the partys dominant figure, Donald Trump.

McCarthy criticized Trump as bearing responsibility for the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol insurrection in the immediate aftermath but three weeks later flew to Mar-a-Lago to be photographed at the side of the former president. Trump habitually belittled McCarthy as My Kevin when referring to him.

Earlier this year then-Speaker McCarthy forged a deal with President Joe Biden and Senate Democrats to avert a US debt default and economic disaster. But that angered hard-line conservatives who had hoped to use the crisis as leverage to force deep federal spending cuts.

His friction with party conservatives came to a head after his decision to allow a vote on a bipartisan bill to keep federal agencies and operations funded beyond September, even though that prevented what would have been a government shutdown. His chief detractor, Representative Matt Gaetz of Florida, then led the overthrow against him in early October.

Earlier: McCarthy Ousted as US House Speaker by Republican Dissidents

The last time such a motion led to an actual vote on removing a speaker was in 1910, and that failed. The only speakers who held office for less time than McCarthy were Theodore Pomeroy, elected speaker-for-the-day on his last day in office in 1869, and Michael Kerr, who died in office in 1876 after 258 days.

It took House Republicans more than three weeks to elect a successor, Representative Mike Johnson of Louisiana.

McCarthy rose to prominence in 2010 as one of a trio of Republicans  along with former Speaker Paul Ryan and former GOP Majority Leader Eric Cantor  who proclaimed themselves the Young Guns, representatives of the future of conservatism. A book they co-authored portrays McCarthy as the strategist of the three.

McCarthy was the last of the group to remain in Congress. Cantor was defeated in a 2014 party primary by a populist seeking to curtail immigration. Ryan became speaker but decided not to seek reelection after two years serving under the Trump presidency.

The son of a Bakersfield, California, firefighter, McCarthy entered politics as head of the California Young Republicans, and later was chairman of the National Young Republicans.

McCarthy eventually worked for his predecessor in Congress, Republican Bill Thomas, starting as an intern and rising to the post of district director, before election to the state legislature and then Congress.

--With assistance from Karen Breslau.

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The four remaining Republican presidential candidates not named Donald Trump will meet again Wednesday night, this time in Alabama, to make their case for the GOP presidential nomination before voting begins next month.

Heres how to watch

The debate, hosted by NewsNation, will be held from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. It will also air on The CW in eastern and central time zones.

The debate will be streamed on the NewsNation website and available on the networks app. Rumble will stream the debate, as well.

Whos on stage?

Wednesdays debate, the fourth of the election cycle and the last before voting begins next month in Iowa, will feature former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, according to the Republican National Committee, which is hosting the debate.

Where will Trump be?

As he did with the three previous debates hosted by the RNC, the former president will skip Wednesday nights event. He will instead attend a fundraiser for the MAGA Inc. Super PAC in Hallandale Beach, according to the New York Times.

Who will moderate?

NewsNation anchor Elizabeth Vargas, Megyn Kelly, host of The Megyn Kelly Show on SiriusXM, and Eliana Johnson, editor-in-chief of The Washington Free Beacon, will moderate the debate.
TUSCALOOSA, Alabama (CW30)  The fourth Republican Primary Presidential Debate is airing live today from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on NewsNation and simulcast on Utahs CW30, with and an encore broadcast immediately to follow from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Mountain Time  on Utahs CW30!

Special pre-debate coverage begins at 5:00 p.m. MT on Utahs CW30 and even sooner throughout today on NewsNation (check your cable/satellite provider for where to find NewsNation locally).

The debate is live from the campus of The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. An encore presentation of the debate will also air back on NewsNation at 12:00 a.m. ET.

Elizabeth Vargas, the Peabody award-winning anchor of NewsNations Elizabeth Vargas Reports, Megyn Kelly, host of The Megyn Kelly Show on SiriusXM and Eliana Johnson, editor-in-chief of The Washington Free Beacon, will moderate. It will also be broadcasted in all time zones on broadcast television network The CW.

Watch Live Debate Coverage today starting at 5:00PM on Utahs CW30.

Visit NewsNationNow.com for more information.

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Councilman Manny Pelaez is pushing to require some BYOB owners to obtain a permit and implement new security measures to tamp down criminal activity. Staff District 8 Councilman Manny Pelaez is pushing for rules that could include requiring owners to obtain a BYOB permit and add, or beef up, security and video monitoring. The potential new regulations also could include annual inspections by the code compliance officers and police, as well as zoning changes. Kin Man Hui/Staff photographer

A city councilman is trying to initiate a crackdown on bring-your-own-bottle establishments in San Antonio that operate after midnight  and that he claims often spawn criminal activity.

People will be at these establishments drinking all night long, said District 8 Councilman Manny Pelaez, whos considering running for mayor in 2025. And because theyre not licensed or regulated by TABC, they do whatever the heck they want.

Most bars, in order to keep their licenses, have to demonstrate that theyre behaving right and that theyre not attracting crime, or that theyre not adding to a problem, he said.

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He added that hes looking to bring BYOB establishments up to the same standards as bars that are licensed by the Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission.

He is pushing for rules that could include requiring owners to obtain a BYOB permit and add, or beef up, security and video monitoring. The potential new regulations also could include annual inspections by the code compliance officers and police, as well as zoning changes that would prevent after-midnight BYOB businesses from operating near residences, schools or places of worship.

The effort stems from the now-closed Jungle Hookah Lounge in Pelaezs Northwest Side district. It was the site of a fatal shooting last year. The citys Dangerous Assessment Response Team, which targets properties with high levels of criminal activity and numerous code violations, zeroed in on the business, but the councilman said it shut down before the city revoked its certificate of occupancy.

Pelaez said DART detectives have told him their biggest problems come from businesses that crop up in shopping centers, stay open later than bars and dont advertise that theyre BYOB though they allow people to drink into the wee hours. The establishments are frequently the sites of fights, noise complaints, car racing and shootings.

And theyre harder to punish because they cant be stripped of liquor licenses, and revoking their certificates of occupancy, which are needed to operate a business, is challenging, Pelaez said.

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Though there are no statewide BYOB laws in Texas, BYOB establishments and special events held in a public spaces cant allow people to drink all night, according to the TABC. State law permits drinking as early as 7 a.m. and as late as 2:15 a.m. depending on the area and day of the week.

State rule applies to consumption, Pelaez said. I am trying to address on-site safety, like lighting and security.

He said he isnt going after restaurants with BYOB policies and that typically close well before midnight. The proposed rule also wouldnt affect residences, fraternal or veterans organizations, universities and colleges, places of worship, licensed farmers markets, banquet halls and theaters that accommodate more than 100 people.

But in addition to the often hard-to-track-down pop-up BYOB establishments, Pelaez said his policy proposal targets strip clubs like Diamonds Show Club and Jaguars Club, which allow people to bring their own drinks.

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Diamonds Show Club owner Jerry Kouroumousis was surprised to hear about the proposal and to have been mentioned by Pelaez. Kouroumousis said his Northeast Side club, though open until 5 a.m., doesnt allow people to bring their drinks in after 2 a.m., and he already has security, video cameras and lighting on site.

SAPD spokesman Sgt. Washington Moscoso said that Diamonds and Jaguars have not had enough criminal activity to make them a focal point for DART in recent memory. He also said the police department had been called out to Diamonds 21 times in the past year, including for burglary of vehicles and disorderly conduct. Moscoso said thats low when compared with other bars, some of which have that many calls in as little as a week.

Pelaezs policy proposal is in the early stages and could take months before it is formally discussed in a City Council committee meeting. Four council members signed on to the proposal, which doesnt indicate a direct endorsement of all of Pelaezs recommendations but shows those members willingness to consider the idea.

Council Members John Courage and Melissa Cabello Havrda both signed Pelaezs proposal, known as a Council Consideration Request, because they have concerns about criminal activity associated with BYOB establishments in their districts.

In Cabello Havrdas district, a now-closed vape shop on Acme Road and West Commerce Street worried a lot of nearby neighbors. Cabello Havrda, chair of the councils public safety committee, said numerous crimes involving drugs and prostitution led the city to shut it down last summer.

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Thats what Im really looking for  another mechanism or tool to use to be able to help neighborhoods in these situations, Cabello Havrda said.

In May, Houston approved an ordinance that requires BYOB establishments to get a permit and follow several new security measures as the city tried to crack down on bad actors that officials said attracted crime.
The toothless blindcat, a rare cave-dwelling catfish that lives in the Edwards Aquifer, is one of two species the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed to list as endangered. This specimen is held by the University of Texas Biodiversity Center. Garold Sneegas, Hendrickson Lab, University of Texas Biodiversity Center The widemouth blindcat, a rare cave-dwelling catfish that lives in the Edwards Aquifer, is one of two species the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed to list as endangered. This specimen is held by the University of Texas Biodiversity Center. Garold Sneegas, Hendrickson Lab, University of Texas Biodiversity Center

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has reopened the public comment period for its controversial proposal to list two species of cave-dwelling catfish as endangered, after receiving backlash from San Antonio and Texas officials who raised concerns about the potential effect on the Edwards Aquifer as a water source.

In August, the federal agency issued a proposed rule to list the toothless blindcat and widemouth blindcat, which live deep in the Edwards Aquifer, under the Endangered Species Act. The San Antonio Water System, CPS Energy, Edwards Aquifer Authority and several state officials have opposed the proposal, calling it premature and based on insufficient science.

The initial public comment period ran from Aug. 22 through Oct. 23, but the agency said Wednesday it would reopen it and continue accepting feedback until Jan. 8.

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The feedback period was reopened in response to a request from SAWS, Fish and Wildlife spokeswoman Aubry Buzek said. The city-owned water utility requested an extension to file comments during the first comment period, and in its 50-page comment letter submitted in October asked that the period be reopened.

SAWS declined to comment on the announcement Wednesday.

HILL COUNTRY: Top stories from the booming region in Central Texas

Reopening the comment period wont delay the agencys final decision, however. Buzek said the service is still statutorily bound to 12 months from the date of the proposal. The service has reopened or extended comment periods for at least five other proposals in 2023, according to news releases on its website.

The catfish, which grow to only a few inches long and have no pigment or developed eyes, live about 1,000 feet below San Antonio in a part of the Edwards Aquifer that is inaccessible to humans. The aquifer is a limestone cavern system that spans more than 2,000 miles and supplies groundwater to more than 2 million Texans, including about half of SAWS supply.

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The fish were discovered in the early 1900s when they were pulled from the aquifer through groundwater wells. The widemouth blindcat was last collected from a well in 1984, while the toothless blindcat has been found in small numbers from a single well as recently as 2022, the Fish and Wildlife Service said. The fish have lived below San Antonio for 30 to 40 million years, scientists estimate.

The service said the catfish are endangered not due to changes in the quality or quantity of water in the aquifer, but due to groundwater pumping that sucks the fish from the aquifer and expels them.

SAWS has disputed that argument, writing in its comments that the service does not have a sufficient understanding of how the wells actually work and has made assumptions about how the wells might injure or kill Blindcats that are, in fact, inconsistent with the actual functioning of the wells.

The utility said water enter some of its wells through artesian pressure  without pumping  and that pumps and motors used by SAWS draw water only from about 50 feet below their location, which is several hundred feet above the habitat of the blindcats.

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The service received a total of 19 public comments during the initial period, including a letter from the Edwards Aquifer Authority, which manages the groundwater system. The aquifer authority said the justification for listing the fish as endangered has substantial technical weaknesses that make listing the species at this time premature and without a rational basis. The aquifer authority said Wednesday it stands by its previous comments and that it doesnt plan to submit additional comments in the next month.

CPS Energy, the city-owned power utility, said in its letter in October that an endangered designation may require disruptions to pumping in highly populated areas in San Antonio and Bexar County, negatively impacting the reliability of the water and electrical service in those areas.

Other letters opposed to the proposal came from Texas Department of Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller; Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar; state Reps. Mark Dorazio, Josey Garcia and Tracy King; and U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz and John Cornyn.

Seven comments were in support of the listing, including one from the nonprofit Center for Biological Diversity, and another from Dean Hendrickson, an ichthyologist at the University of Texas Biodiversity Center, who has studied the blindcats.

I am fully convinced that both San Antonio blindcats clearly merit listing as Endangered, and that such protection is long overdue, he wrote. Very few other comparably ancient and highly divergent species exist on the planet, Hendrickson said. He argued the proposal doesnt sufficiently recognize the importance of habitat stability and the species susceptibility to potential threats.

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In November, the federal agency announced two other species that live in the aquifer did not warrant listing as endangered. The Texas troglobitic water slater, a crustacean living in the aquifer in Hays County, and the mimic cavesnail, which lives in the aquifer in Bexar County, were determined not to be in danger of extinction.

While Buzek said the agency is required to issue a final rule within 12 months of its proposed rule, a final rule has not yet been issued on the Guadalupe fatmucket, Guadalupe orb and false spike, which were proposed for listing more than two years ago. The mussels, which live in the Guadalupe River, were among six Texas mussel species listed in a proposed rule in August 2021.
China sees delivery of 120b parcels

08:22, December 06, 2023 By Luo Wangshu ( China Daily

A customer in Chengdu receives her flowers ordered online on Tuesday. It is the 120 billionth parcel in China this year. [Photo by Luo Wangshu / China Daily]

China's parcel delivery sector has set a record by handling more than 120 billion items this year, demonstrating its strong resilience and showcasing the country's improving consumer market, the State Post Bureau said on Tuesday.

It is also a reflection of the nation's stable and positive economic momentum, the bureau added.

"Now, China has become the most dynamic express delivery market in the world, and the parcel delivery business in China has become a calling card of the country," said Bian Zuodong, deputy head of the bureau's market inspection department.

According to a report released by the bureau last month, more than 200 billion parcels are expected to be handled globally this year.

"The volume of express delivery business (in China) has increased from about 10 million a year to 10 million a month," Bian said, adding that the expansion of the parcel delivery network has benefited people across the nation.

China's parcel delivery sector continued to grow rapidly this year. Since March, the number of parcels handled each month has reached a record 10 billion. In 2013, the annual figure was under 9.2 billion.

"Express delivery promotes circulation and serves people's livelihoods. It has become a 'barometer' of economic development reflecting economic vitality. It is also an important factor in narrowing the gap between urban and rural areas and promoting common prosperity," he said.

The growing number also reflects China's economic vitality, he added.

"The growth of express delivery comes from the improvement of consumer demand. The business has also become one of the important indicators of China's economic development," Bian said.

"The recovery of the macroeconomic environment in China has promoted demand for express delivery services," Bian said.

Since the beginning of this year, China's economy has steadily recovered, while production and consumption demand have gradually picked up, he said.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics, from January to October, online retail sales of physical goods in China reached 10.3 trillion yuan ($1.44 trillion), accounting for 26.7 percent of the total retail sales of consumer goods.

"The rapid growth of market sales and service consumption has not only provided opportunities for the express delivery industry to better play its supporting role, but also provided opportunities for the sector's sustained high-quality development," he said.

During the "Double 11" period, the online shopping festival in November which caused a peak in parcel deliveries from Nov 1 to Nov 16, China handled 7.77 billion parcels, a year-on-year increase of 25.7 percent.

China's parcel delivery sector handles a daily average of about 350 million packages, he said.

According to the bureau's big data platform, a package from Kunming, Yunnan province, which was sent at 6:26 pm on Monday, was the nation's 120 billionth parcel of 2023.

The parcel, containing a bouquet of lilies, was ordered from an online store by a customer surnamed Zhang in Chengdu, Sichuan province.

At 3:39 pm on Tuesday, Zhang received the flowers.

"I placed the order yesterday afternoon, and it was fast," she said, while opening the wrapping to check her order.

Zhang said she often buys flowers and other daily goods online.

"The prices are better, and there is more choice online," she said.

The record-breaking flowers took a bullet train from Kunming to Chengdu, according to Li Weichen, head of the Sichuan office of SF Express, the major parcel delivery company which handled the 120 billionth parcel.

Since the company started cooperating with the high-speed rail service, parcels between Sichuan and Yunnan can be delivered just one days after the order was placed, rather than the earlier two days.

"It is faster and greener," said Zeng Jing from SF Express.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Erik Harris, a vocational nursing student under Project QUEST, trains to do lab work at St. Philips College in May 2017. JERRY LARA, Staff / San Antonio Express-News

Billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott gave $1.5 million to Project QUEST, the largest private donation in the workforce-training nonprofits 31-year history.

We see this transformative gift as a recognition of the efforts and outcomes achieved over our three decades of work to improve individual lives, said Sonia Rodriguez, who chairs Project QUESTs board of directors.

Project QUEST grew out of the 1990 closure of the Levi Strauss factory on the far West Side, which threw more than 1,000 workers out of a job.

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It has received national recognition as one of the most effective job-training programs. Its success is often attributed to its sector-based training model that prepares people for jobs in health care, information technology and skilled trades, and its focus on support services such as case management, child care and rental assistance.

Project QUEST is also a key partner in the citys sales tax-funded Ready to Work program, which aims to train more than 28,000 people for jobs paying at least $15 an hour. The nonprofit is one of four organizations the city contracted with to enroll participants in job training and to provide case management services.

MacKenzie Scott has given $1.5 million to Project QUEST, a San Antonio-based workforce-training nonprofit. Javier Rojas/Prensa Internaciona/TNS

About 68% of its 2,685 participants are in Ready to Work, said Francisco Martinez, Project QUESTs chief development and community relations officer.

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The nonprofits board is still deciding how to use Scotts donation, he said. Some of the funds likely will provide emergency assistance to participants, including those who are part of Ready to Work.

Scott, a novelist and the former wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has pledged to give away most of her fortune. Since 2019, she has donated more than $14 billion to about 1,600 organizations, according to her website Yield Giving.
Chris Philp, the policing minister, said the Rwanda bill would be unveiled within days, not weeks

Emergency laws to declare Rwanda safe for asylum seekers will be immune to court challenges, a Home Office minister has pledged.

Chris Philp, the policing minister, said the Government would do whatever it takes to ensure the Rwanda Bill was completely watertight and immune to being struck down by the courts.

The Bill was announced as part of the Governments plans to get flights to Rwanda off the ground in the wake of the Supreme Court ruling that the policy was unlawful.

It was due to be presented to Parliament on Wednesday after James Cleverly, the Home Secretary, on Tuesday signed a new asylum treaty with Rwanda designed to answer the criticisms by the Supreme Court.

However, it is unlikely to be published before Thursday amid wrangling within the Government over how tough the legislation should be. Mr Philp said it would be unveiled within days, not weeks.

Removing the right of judicial review

Rishi Sunak is reportedly veering towards a compromise option where the Government would take powers to disapply the Human Rights Act (HRA) in asylum claims. This would force a claimant to take their case to Strasbourg, during which time its advocates hope the policy could be shown to have worked without hitches.

However, Robert Jenrick, the immigration minister, is fighting a rearguard action for the toughest full fat version of the legislation, which would remove the right of judicial review and include notwithstanding clauses allowing ministers to ignore not only the HRA but also the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) on asylum.

The Telegraph understands that one compromise being considered by Number 10 to resolve the impasse would give ministers reserve powers in the legislation. These would allow them to ignore ECHR rulings if the courts attempted to block the Rwanda policy, but not stating that would automatically be the case. This would be in addition to powers to disapply the HRA.

Full fat approach

Mr Philp refused to be drawn on which option the Government favoured but told LBC: We are going to bring a bill shortly to make this completely watertight and immune from being struck down.

We will do whatever is necessary to make sure this arrangement [the Rwanda policy] is legally watertight and cannot be unpicked. Parliament is sovereign. Its what the public expects.

The Prime Minister, who faces his weekly Commons question time at lunchtime, has to find a path between two factions in his party. The One Nation group of more than 100 centre-Left MPs on Tuesday issued a warning that overriding the ECHR would be a red line.

The full fat option is, however, demanded by three groups on the Right of the party: the New Conservatives, the European Research Group (ERG) and the Common Sense Group, led by Sir John Hayes, a close ally of Suella Braverman, the former home secretary.

MPs from the three have been meeting this week to discuss tactics if the Prime Minister steps back from the full fat approach. They are expected to lay amendments to implement the toughest option, which they believe is the only way to get the flights off to Rwanda.

Respect parliamentary sovereignty

Mark Francois, the ERG chairman, said on Tuesday that the groups reconvened star chamber of lawyers would scrutinise the legislation before MPs vote on it. They will look at the question of whether it fully respects parliamentary sovereignty and whether it contains unambiguous wording that would facilitate planes taking off to Rwanda, he said.

However, the former deputy prime minister Damian Green, chairman of the One Nation group, said on Tuesday: The Government should think twice before overriding both the ECHR and Human Rights Act and not rush such long-term, difficult decisions.

Mr Philp warned the House of Lords that whatever option was chosen, they should back the decisions of the democratically elected chamber and respect the publics support for stopping the boats.

He said the Rwanda policy would deter migrants from making Channel crossings in small boats, in a similar way to the Australian Sovereign borders strategy of turning back migrant vessels and the fast-track deportation deal with Albania that had slashed the number of illegal migrants from the country by 90 per cent.

Getting this deal active and effective will have a huge deterrent effect on stopping the illegal arrivals that were seeing across the English Channel. Weve seen it work elsewhere, he told Times Radio.

What were looking for here really is a deterrent effect. So were not expecting to have to send an entire years worth of illegal arrivals before that deterrent effect will happen.

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.
Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper on Tuesday announced the results of a weeklong retail theft operation that led to nearly 300 arrests, most of which were misdemeanor citations that failed to meet the felony threshold in California.

Called Operation Bad Elf, about 50 sheriffs detectives spent seven days, from Nov. 27 through Sunday, at 12 stores looking to catch suspected retail thieves red-handed and gather more information about who was committing these crimes. The retail theft operation was conducted as the holiday shopping season was in full swing.

At a news conference, Cooper called retail theft a major problem that has grown since Californias Proposition 47 went into effect November 2014. The state law reclassified certain nonviolent property and drug crimes from felonies to misdemeanors in California.

The sheriff said Prop 47 increased the felony threshold from $400 to $950, which means thefts of merchandise totaling less than $950 is considered a misdemeanor in California. Those arrested are cited with a ticket and ordered to appear in court. Cooper said thats led to 33,000 misdemeanor warrants in the county  many for people who failed to show up in court and face theft charges.

People get tickets, Cooper told reporters. They dont show up for court, because they know nothings gonna happen. Thats the mentality: Just to walk in and steal whatever, Im not gonna be in trouble.

The sheriff said Prop 47 also allows shoplifters to steal multiple times a day without it being considered a felony, because shoplifting cases and dollar amount totals in retail theft incidents cannot be combined.

California law allows prosecutors to combine multiple instances of misdemeanor theft by a single person or as part of a single conspiracy, so that the cumulative value of items stolen exceeds the felony $950 threshold, according to the Californians for Safety and Justice. The justice reform advocacy group said Assembly Bill 2356, signed into law last year by Gov. Gavin Newsom, clarifies that prosecutors have this ability.

Will Matthews, director of communications for the advocacy group, said property crime rates went down steadily year-over-year beginning in 2016 after voters approved Prop 47. He said California property crime rates reached some of the lowest levels in state history in 2019 and 2020 before ticking up as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 and 2022.

The most significant study yet conducted by criminologists at UC Irvine, who relied on more than three decades of comparative data, found Prop. 47 had had no impact on crime rates, Matthews said in a written statement responding to the sheriffs news conference.

Matthews said the threshold in California for charging shoplifting as a felony is lower than most other states, including Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas, Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina. And misdemeanor shoplifting, if convicted, can be punishable with up to six months in jail.

The detectives who participated in the sheriffs operation are regularly assigned to major crimes, gang crimes, property crimes and robbery investigations. Cooper said he felt it was important to divert these detectives to show how bad retail theft is.

Detectives were assisted by Sacramento County Probation Department officers. Cooper said the operation cost the Sheriffs Office $300,000, with $110,000 coming from a state-funded retail theft grant.

There were 285 arrests made; 78 resulted in felony charges, and the rest were misdemeanors. Of those arrested, 20% were on probation or parole, and 65% had previous arrests for alleged violent crimes, according to the Sheriffs Office.

Retail theft at 12 stores

Tens of thousands of dollars in stolen merchandise was recovered in the operation. Cooper said they were still totaling the final figures, so he didnt have a specific total on the value of the stolen items.

Shoplifting arrests were made at Rite Aid, Five Below, Ulta, Walgreens, Target, Marshalls, CVS, Walmart, Trader Joes, Lowes, T.J. Maxx and Home Depot stores in the sheriffs jurisdiction.

Cooper said one store was uncooperative with the operation and would not allow detectives inside their security room, but they still arrested two people there for shoplifting. In a social media post after the news conference, he said sheriffs officials were not welcomed at Ulta.

The sheriff said that response is emblematic of how a lot of bigger retail chains are refusing to confront thieves in the store, but have instead placed common household items behind locked plastic cases, increased prices for customers and closed stores.

This is not sustainable, Cooper said. How are they still profitable? Because (the stores) jacked prices up and they close doors. So, I put a square on their backs.

Majority of theft suspects werent homeless

The Sheriffs Office wanted to dispel some retail theft myths based on the 285 arrests the detectives made. Most of them were not homeless people: 21% of the suspects arrested were experiencing homelessness. Cooper said about 1%, or four of the 285 arrests, were thefts committed as part of organized crime, and 15% were committed by minors.

Cooper urged retailers to seek a California ballot initiative that he believes would have enough voter support to push back the harmful results of Prop 47. He said its daily shoplifting thats plaguing retailers in this county, not organized retail crime efforts that dominate headlines.

All we see are the pictures of the big organized retail crime smash-and-grabs; thats not going on at a high level in Sacramento, Cooper said. Its the daily (shoplifting) ... that faucet is on constantly with these folks doing that. And thats what we have to change.

The sheriff said this operation focused on only 12 stores in the county, and there were a lot more where retail theft instead went unchecked during these seven days. Its not just big-box retailers, he said. Small, family-owned businesses dont have the means to thwart retail theft on a daily basis.

Stealing is not OK, Cooper said. These people just go out and steal, not because theyre in need, because they can and they wont get in trouble.
Legal law concept image - gavel and handcuffs Photo provided/sasun bughdaryan/iStockphoto/Getty Images

A jury has been seated for the murder trial of a San Antonio man accused of killing a 4-year-old boy in a drive-by shooting on the East Side that shocked the community in 2017.

Quentin Travonne Phillips, 32, is one of five men who were charged with murder  but the first to go to trial  in the shooting death of DeEarlvion Lee Whitley, known as Little Earl. Police at the time said numerous assailants fired 65 bullets at the residence from a passing vehicle around midnight in the 200 block of Hub Avenue.

Investigators said the toddler was shot in the head while playing with his 7-year-old brother. His mother, Cyntwanisha Whitley, was shot in both legs but survived. Police have speculated that the intended target of the fusillade that struck the house was the boy's father, Earl Whitley Jr., who was sentenced to three years in federal prison in 2019 for dealing crack cocaine.

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DeEarlvion Lee Whitley is shown in a photo provided by the family. The 4-year-old was shot and killed by a bullet fired in a drive-by shooting in 2017. Quentin Phillips, 28, charged with murder, felon in possession of a firearm and deadly conduct.

State and federal agencies worked with San Antonio police for months, and more than half a dozen men were charged who investigators believed were involved with the shooting.

Phillips was indicted in July 2020 along with Terrell Anthony Chase, now 31, and Todd Anthony Hill, now 36, on murder, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and deadly conduct charges. Court records indicate that all three men have extensive criminal records that include drug and assault charges.

Not long after those indictments, authorities issued warrants for the arrest for two others charged with murder in Little Earls death: Michael Davonte Woodard, now 29, and John Chatmon, now 41.

Chatmon had been arrested in a federal sweep targeting gun violence on the East Side in the summer of 2017. At the time, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and FBI agents identified him and Tramone Mykel Anderson, then 25, as part of a group of suspects in the drive-by shooting leaving and arriving the same night at a house under surveillance. Both were charged with being felons in possession of a firearm.

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Anderson was not charged with murder in the case. Court records indicate Chase and Chatmon are in the Bexar County jail awaiting trial.

Hill pleaded guilty in March to being a felon in possession of a firearm in a deal with the Bexar County District Attorneys Office that saw the murder and deadly conduct charges dismissed. He was sentenced to eight years in prison.

In July, Woodard pleaded no contest to deadly conduct and the firearm possession charge and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. The murder charge against him also was dismissed as part of the plea agreement.

One other suspect in the case, Dakota Jamaine Peppers, 32, was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Court records indicate he was sentenced to six years in prison in April 2022.

Testimony is expected to begin Wednesday in the 437th District Court, Judge Joel Perez presiding. If convicted, Phillips faces up to life in prison.
Image of a federal court exhibit of a Russian PPSh0-41 machine gun that Daniel Matthew Kittson of Salem was convicted of illegally selling.

A Salem man was sentenced to federal prison Monday for illegally selling a Russian machine gun capable of firing 900 rounds per minute, according to a press release from the District of Oregon's U.S. Attorney's Office.

Daniel Matthew Kittson, 61, was sentenced to a little over two years in federal prison for illegal possession and transfer of a machine gun, the release said. A jury convicted Kittson in August on the charge. He will be under supervised release for three years after his release from prison.

Prosecutors said Kittson completed an $8,000 sale of the machine gun on Jan. 10, 2020, after having phone calls with investigators the month before.

A federal grand jury indicted Kittson on May 9, 2021, and U.S. Marshals arrested him 19 days later.

While out on bail after his first federal court appearance, Kittson was arrested in Crook County for possessing a firearm and small quantities of methamphetamine and heroin. That case is pending, according to court records.

Kittson's criminal history includes a conviction of attempted murder and first-degree manslaughter in 1988 after a barfight in Salem about a pool game. The fight left one dead and one hospitalized, the Statesman Journal reported at the time.

For questions, comments and news tips, email reporter Christian Willbern at cwillbern@statesmanjournal.com

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Oregon man sentenced for illegally selling Russian gun
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  The Salt Lake Police Department is asking for the publics help in finding the person responsible for stealing multiple Pride flags in the Ballpark neighborhood this week.

In a news release, the police department said the thefts happened early Monday morning in the area of 1450 South Main Street. The case is being investigated as a possible hate crime.

READ NEXT: Salt Lake twins accused of chasing, shooting neighbor

Multiple people reported their Pride flags stolen that morning, the department said. One homeowner also reported a broken fence.

Investigators are asking neighbors to check their home security footage and doorbell cameras for any images of the suspect. Those with information were asked to call 801-799-3000.

The Ballpark neighborhood is located immediately south of downtown Salt Lake City.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
This is part of Opening Arguments, Slates coverage of the start of the latest Supreme Court term. Were working to change the way the media covers the Supreme Court. Support our work when you join Slate Plus.

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court was presented with an opportunity to blow a $340 billion hole in the federal budget, jeopardize major chunks of the tax code, and preemptively kill a wealth tax. It will almost certainly decline the invitation. The courts conservative justices remain deeply and disproportionately solicitous of rich peoples rights. But they appear unwilling to embrace a crank theory that could rewind Congress taxing power to the preCivil War era. Only Justice Samuel Alito was in the tank for this absurd idea, which was devised by one of his close friends, and his efforts fell painfully short of persuasion.

Tuesdays case, Moore v. U.S., involves a tax enacted as part of President Donald Trumps Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which passedwith exclusively Republican supportin 2017. The act largely exempted corporations foreign profits from taxation, but it also imposed a one-time tax on Americans who own shares in foreign corporations. Over a decade, it is projected to collect about $340 billion, a considerable sum intended to offset the acts addition to the budget deficit.

This one-time tax only became controversial when conservative activists, led by lawyers Andrew Grossman and David Rivkin, identified it as a vehicle to preemptively kill more ambitious taxations of wealth. Specifically, they sought to preempt the kind of proposal from Sen. Elizabeth Warren that would tax a persons net worth, including high-dollar assets that havent been sold. You may remember Rivkin from his sympathetic interviews with Alito in the Wall Street Journal opinion section, a relationship that Alito swears poses no bar to his participation in this case.

Grossman and Rivkin claim the 16th Amendment permits taxation only on realized income, or assets that have been converted into cash at a gain for the investor. They asserted that the 2017 law taxes unrealized income, or assets that havent yet been cashed out, and that this feature made it an unconstitutional direct tax. Technically, these lawyers represent two plaintiffs, Charles and Kathleen Moore, who own shares in a foreign company that they want to shield from the taxman. But the lawyers ultimate goal, as theyve admitted, is to secure a decision against this tax to prevent a future Congress from enacting a true Warren-style wealth tax.

Crucially, the Grossman/Rivkin theory would recklessly imperil countless other taxes that raise trillions of dollars for the government. Congress, for instance, currently collects taxes on undistributed income from partnerships and corporations; these laws could be rendered unconstitutional if SCOTUS rules for the plaintiffs, starving the United States of the money it needs to operate. Luckily, the Grossman/Rivkin theory is demonstrably false, a revisionist fantasy with no basis in history or text. Starting in 1861, Congress enacted an income tax system, which grew to cover both realized and unrealized gains. This system flourished until 1895, when an ultraconservative Supreme Court struck down the federal income tax as direct in violation of the Constitution. Its 54 decision in Pollock v. Farmers Loan & Trust was part of the Lochner era, when the court beat back progressive reforms in aid of the wealthy. Pollock rested on a bogus rewrite of history, and it set off a bipartisan campaign to overrule the Supreme Court. This battle culminated in the ratification of the 16th Amendment in 1913, which expressly authorized a federal income tax.

Grossman and Rivkins effort to shrink the 16th Amendment by limiting it to realized income finds no support in the historical record. As Justice Sonia Sotomayor noted during arguments, the concept of realization was very well established at the time that the 16th Amendment was adopted, but the amendment does not reference realization. In fact, as far back as 1864, and again in 1913, Congress taxed unrealized gains. As Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar conclusively demonstrated, the word income was defined in 1913 to mean any gain, profit, or revenue, whether realized or not. Tax scholars have further shown that economists, accountants, lawyers and legislators in the early 20th century all defined income to include unrealized gain.

Arguing the case on Tuesday, Grossman was unable to effectively counter this evidence. There is quite the history in this country of Congress taxing American shareholders on their gains from foreign corporations, Justice Elena Kagan told him. Why is this any different and why shouldnt we understand that to be quite well settled? During a colloquy with Grossman, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson displayed her superior grasp on a 1796 precedent narrowing the definition of unconstitutional direct taxes. (She also noted that any constitutional limitations on such taxes arose as part of a shameful compromise over slavery.) Justice Amy Coney Barrett seized upon the very real risk that the Grossman/Rivkin theory poses to other parts of the tax code that collect money from unrealized income. What is the distinction? she pressed, and sounded profoundly skeptical that Grossman could draw a bright line that would spare trillions in tax revenue from judicial revocation.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh saw a different path forward: Why not just say the 2017 law does tax realized gains and be done with it? The entity realized income, he pointed outmeaning the corporation itself made money. The question then is attribution, and weve long held that Congress may attribute the income of the company to the shareholders. In other words, the court has consistently let Congress attribute a corporations profits to shareholders when collecting taxes. Why is this law different analytically?

Kavanaugh raised this point with Prelogar, who embraced it as a way of avoiding more difficult foundational questions about the meaning of the 16th Amendment. You could hear the compromise taking shape: The court says this tax is constitutional because it targets realized income, without answering the bigger question of whether a true wealth tax complies with the 16th Amendment. Justice Neil Gorsuch tried to resist this middle ground in a lengthy exchange with Prelogar, but as usual, she wrestled him into a truce. Several justices love scrapping with Prelogar, but Gorsuch takes the practice to new heights; the often cranky justice sounds delighted, even charmed, when rebutted by the solicitor general. It was a positive sign that, by the end of their tangle, he still couldnt find an excuse to side with the plaintiffs.

Really, the only justice who stuck his neck out for the Rivkin/Grossman claim was Alito, Rivkins pal on the bench. Oozing irascibility, Alito tried to corner Prelogar in two unusually long exchanges, only to fall flat on his face. Rather than try to defend an indefensible theory on the merits, Alito attempted to undermine the solicitor generals own position by implying that it could lead to catastrophic confiscation of fat cats wealth. One of your arguments that you press most stronglyand, certainly, it has resonated a lot in the coverage of this caseis that the adoption of the petitioners arguments would have far-reaching consequences, the justice huffed. Do you think it is fair then to explore what the consequences of your argument would be? When Prelogar explained that there would be no consequences, except a continuation of the status quo, Alito was unsatisfied.

What Im trying to do is to understand the breadth of your argument, he said again. I understand you want to talk about this case, and ultimately we have to talk about this case, but I just want to understand how far your argument goes, how far does it logically go. Alito then inquired whether Congress could tax a billionaires lifetime worth of profits, going back to when he started up a little business in his garage. It fell to Kavanaugh, of all people, to save Prelogar: On the proverbial open door for Congress, the justice said, members of Congress want to get reelected. So Alitos farfetched hypotheticals probably wont come to pass. Translation: Sam, stop using the remote prospect of scary future taxes as an excuse to invalidate this plain-vanilla law.

At this point, Alitos questions didnt much matter; you could already count five votes, maybe more, to uphold the statute at issuewhich, it bears repeating, was passed with exclusively Republican votes, and signed by a Republican president. A cynic might think that Alito was thumbing his nose at his critics by running interference for his BFFs flaccid theory, flaunting his defiance of judicial ethics. He couldnt even resist a jab at the medias ostensibly one-sided coverage of this case, as though he had an obligation to defend Rivkins honor from the rabidly partisan press.

Yet all of this was, in the end, a sideshow. The U.S. tax code will survive. The 16th Amendment will not be overturned by judicial fiat. The wealth tax will not be killed off before it is enacted. And that is the most we can possibly expect from this Supreme Court.
When I asked the Governments choice to be the next chairman of the BBC, Samir Shah, how to sum up his new appointment, he said to tell them one word  inspiring. Indeed, this is not only a bold choice, it is one that takes us into some genuinely positive avenues.

The first is that Shah is a film maker, so at last we will have someone at the top who understands what television should be about. Before setting up his own production company Juniper, he was head of current affairs and political programmes at the BBC. In 2002, the Royal Television Society awarded him its top honour for his outstanding contribution to journalism. He was also a non-executive director of the BBC, chair of the Museum of the Home, and was a trustee then deputy chair of the V&A.

But while television and trusteeship have dominated Samirs extraordinary career, he has not been confined to them. It was as chairman of the race relations think-tank the Runnymede Trust that he became known as Mr Data, carefully following all the statistical evidence and producing analysis that went against the grain of many other race relations lobby groups.

Samir also earned the reputation of Mr Impartial. He is aligned to no political party and will arrive at a time when the BBC is desperate for leadership that can defy accusations of bias and emerge even-handed.

People will like his no-nonsense attitude to cultural issues. To him, however, he is not fighting a culture war, but engaged in a common sense effort to distinguish fact from propaganda. And unlike some BBC presenters, he wont have a mental breakdown in a newsroom full of white faces.

It was therefore a pleasure to have had Shah as a commissioner when I chaired Boris Johnsons Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities. Not only was he one of the funniest members, but he was ruthlessly impartial, cutting through all the sentiment so that we could make assessments based on facts. He didnt ignore the lived experiences of those who shared their evidence, but was able to make an assessment in the round and he made an invaluable contribution to our key findings.

His appointment will make him the first visible ethnic minority to chair the BBC. This is important because he really understands that diversity is not about tokens or affirmative action but simply fairness. He will stand for everyone, from Brixton to Barnsley, in a way that allows those voices to speak more to their humanity rather than what they are meant to represent.

I watched Shah go out to meet the media scrum after our report made clear that Britain, when it came to race relations, had improved over the last 30 years. He was like a batsman facing vicious fast bowling. It was a masterclass in taking awkward deliveries: he knew when to square cut them or let the nasty ones go straight to the wicket keeper. He totally frustrated the troublemakers because he stuck to the evidence.

All being well, when Shah gets round his desk next year, he will have the fate of an extraordinary public institution in his hands. The key challenge will be how to deal with a news service that is now under scrutiny over bias (the coverage of the Israel and Palestine conflict will be an opener). Then there are questions over its coverage of climate change and, of course, the vexed issue of the current funding model and whether the broadcaster should become a subscription service.

Shah will know that Facebook, Netflix and Google are now the big players and that the BBC will have to re-imagine itself in the new world of streaming content. Hell have to use all his arts and cunning to tread through these complex traps.

This honest broker, who was born in India and came to England in 1950, understands the migrant story not as one of victimhood and misery but opportunity, fortitude, joy and inspiration. It is this that has been the cornerstone of the BBCs values and I am sure Shah is as determined as anyone to restore the viewerships trust.

Ultimately, the BBC was built on making great programmes with great characters and stories. It was once the pride of our nation and the world. Something has clearly gone wrong. My sense is that my friend is going to need more than inspiration, but hes still an inspired choice.

Lord Sewell is former chair of the Commission for Race and Ethnic Disparities

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SAN DIEGO  A San Diego man pleaded guilty in federal court Monday, admitting to deceiving banks by using straw borrowers and fake information to get loans.

According to the U.S. Attorneys Office Southern District of California, Alvin Pates of San Diego pleaded guilty in federal court Monday to bank and tax fraud charges.

According to the plea agreement, between July 2014 and April 2020, Pates admitted to using names, social security numbers and credit of straw borrowers to get loans and lines of credit for his own personal use.

He is accused of preparing and directing people to prepare fake loan and credit card applications, which included fake paystubs, W2s and bank statements. The U.S. Attorneys Office release reports he paid a 10% kickback from the loan proceeds to the straw borrower, and falsely promised to make all the payments on the loans.

Two charged in multi-million dollar luxury car theft scheme: Riverside DA

He also admitted to aiding and assisting in the preparation of false tax returns for two taxpayers for 2015. For one of the tax returns, it was falsely reported the individual had received other income totaling $538,462, and that they had paid federal income taxes of $543,643, ultimately receiving a tax refund of $376,260. The money was later returned to the IRS.

Pates is also accused of supplying false 1099 forms to the taxpayer to support the return and accompanied the taxpayer to the IRS to submit the false return.

In his plea agreement, he also admitted he funneled the majority of the loan proceeds through the bank accounts of one of his shell companies for personal use, such as personal transactions, cash withdrawals, personal living expenses and payments to other credit unions.

Pates admitted in court the total amount of the fraudulent loans charged in the indictment is $87,000; he will be required to pay restitution of at least $40,500.

7 suspects arrested in North County Target thefts

Sentencing in this case is scheduled for March 1. Pates faces up to 30 years in prison, a $1 million fine, along with forfeiture and restitution, if convicted on the bank fraud charges. He is also facing up to three years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years supervised release, forfeiture and restitution, if convicted on charges of aiding and advising preparation of false tax return.

The U.S. Secret Service and IRS Criminal Investigation assisted the U.S. Attorneys Office Southern District of California in this case.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
The most childless city in the United States is only becoming more so. Less than 14 percent of the citys population is under the age of 18, and that percentage has been steadily declining for years. Unsurprisingly, enrollment at San Francisco public schools has also fallen in recent years, exacerbating a perennial budget problem for the district and raising the likelihood it may be forced to close down some of its schools.

And yet, private education in San Francisco seems to be doing better than ever. No fewer than nine of the citys tony private schools are upgrading their facilities, with some of them expanding enrollment and others financing new amenities like yoga studios. The shrinking of San Franciscos child-age population doesnt seem to have caused any problems for these schools; far from it. So whats going on here?

As with most macro trends in San Franciscos politics and public life, the answer comes back to the citys chronic lack of housing. And it should serve as a warning to other expensive American cities: Housing shortages have a way of eroding public education systems. In fact, they chip away at the very social and financial logic that keeps all kinds of high-quality public services afloat. Any city that replicates San Franciscos poor choices is likely to wind up with fewer young families and less capacity to serve the families who stick around.

Ive seen San Franciscos twin housing and public education crises from a couple of different angles over the past several years. Currently, Im the policy director at California YIMBY (for Yes in My Backyard), where I spend my days studying the impact of housing scarcity on cities like San Francisco and thinking up ways the state can intervene. But in 2019 I was a policy analyst at the Legislative Analysts Office in Sacramentoessentially Californias version of the Congressional Budget Officewhere I tracked K-12 education funding.

California has an unusual system for funding local school districts, called the Local Control Funding Formula. Signed into law a decade ago by Governor Jerry Brown, LCFF overhauled how California pays to educate its kids. No longer would districts cobble together their annual budgets from any number of bespoke funding pots; instead, each school district would receive a standardized sum based on total pupil attendance, with additional funding for students who were low-income, English learners, or foster children.

Thats the simple version. The reality of LCFF is a bit messier, burdened as it is by the usual mix of legacy programs and political compromises. But the result was still just barely shy of revolutionary: Per-pupil funding was no longer just a function of ones ZIP code. In fact, the poorest areas were getting more per-pupil funds, because they had more students who necessitated the additional funding mentioned above.

So far so good. But there was a big problem with LCFF: Because per-student funding was largely tied to average daily attendance, a drop in attendance would eventually lead to a sustained reduction in the average districts budget. In theory, this should have provided a financial incentive for districts to discourage unexcused absences. In practice, it turned out to be a fiscal time bomb for San Franciscoand for the states many other overpriced, anti-growth jurisdictions.

Everything worked as intended so long as districts continued to add more kids. But statewide birth rates have dropped by nearly 50 percent since 1990. And for the first time in its history, Californias population is now steadily shrinking as residents flee to states with lower housing costs. That means there are fewer students to go around.

In the abstract, that may not seem like much of an issue. After all, if a districts student population falls by 10 percent, why cant the district make do with a little less? Answer: Using 90 percent of a school building doesnt cost 10 percent less than using 100 percent of it. Some costs, like maintenance, are more or less fixed. Its the funding thats variable.

Similarly, a decline in attendance doesnt automatically lead to a commensurate drop in labor costs. Any district looking to lay off educators or reduce their pay must contend with Californias strong public sector unions. Here too, the housing crisis plays a role: As a citys housing costs inflate, so do the minimum salary requirements of professional staff. (Housing costs were a major factor in this years Los Angeles teachers strike.)

To be sure, not all of San Franciscos public school problems can be blamed on the housing market. District governance has been so spectacularly poor that aggravated parents recalled three members of the school board last year in a bruising, ugly special election. Covid-19 school closures didnt help matters; many parents who had the means to send their kids to in-person private schools did so, and it now looks like many of those kids arent coming back.

While Covid-19 probably accelerated the drop in public school enrollment, though, it didnt precipitate it. And incompetent management of the district cant explain why public school enrollment has been falling statewide for nearly 20 years. The housing crisis is a critical factor, and it is amplifying the severity of the districts other problems.

Of course, aggregate statistics about birth rates and population declines only tell part of the story. We also need to consider who is leaving San Francisco. While the Bay Areas median income has declined slightly over the past three years, the share of households earning six figures or more has only grown. People across the income spectrum are moving out of the area, but low- and middle-income earners are leaving at higher rates. Many of those who stay behind are those who can afford to stayand who can afford to opt out of public education while the public school system struggles to pay its bills. Meanwhile, the people who suffer the most are the very households that the Local Control Funding Formula was supposed to help: impoverished families that cant afford to move out of the Bay Area, cant afford to send their kids to private school, and cant afford adequate housing.

It gets worse. While Californias public education system is not especially dependent on local tax revenue, plenty of municipal services are. And as middle-class and upper-middle-class residents leave the Bay Area, they take their tax contributions with them. Over time, this will cause the quality of public services to decline, which will in turn encourage more people to leave.

San Francisco can reverse this dynamic, but only if its elected leaders remove the citys myriad obstacles to building more homes. (Under pressure from the state, they took an important step in the right direction this week, but more remains to be done.) Only by making the city affordable for middle-class people will public officials be able to grow the population and ensure sustainable funding for necessities like public education and a high-quality transportation system. If they dont do this, an already deeply unequal city will become apocalyptically so. There will be the very poor, who are disproportionately reliant on the programs that face chronic funding shortfalls, and the very rich, who can secede from the commons entirely and fund their own private alternatives to what we used to call the public good.
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  A fluffy dog was inside a San Francisco dog walkers van when a thief stole the van and drove off Tuesday, according to police.

The Dogwalks.com van was parked on Sacramento Street and Mason Street when someone stole it. The brown and gray dog, named Murray, remained missing for several hours Tuesday afternoon.

A dog named Murray is missing in San Francisco. (Image via SFPD)

This van was stolen with a dog owners beloved pet inside. (Image via SFPD)

San Francisco police asked for the publics help to find the pooch.

Help us find Murray! Anyone who locates Murray or the van should call 911 and report their current location, the San Francisco Police Department wrote on X. The van was marked with large logos reading Woof Pack and Dogwalks.com.

Around 6 p.m. Tuesday, SFPD wrote an update on X stating, Thank you everyone for spreading our alert. Murray has been located and has been reunited with his family!

Police did not say where the cute dog was found, if the van was recovered, nor if officers caught the dognapping auto thief.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day OConnor delivers the 2010 Sidney Shainwald Public Interest Lecture at the New York Law School, Tuesday, April 6, 2010 in New York. | Mary Altaffer, Associated Press

This article was first published in the State of Faith newsletter. Sign up to receive the newsletter in your inbox each Monday night.

The first female justice on the U.S. Supreme Court, Sandra Day OConnor, will be remembered for her history-making career, her efforts to broker legal compromises and her many memorable religion-related rulings.

OK, I admit the religion rulings are pretty far down the list of what comes to the average Americans mind when you talk about OConnor. But this newsletter is not for the average American. Its for people who seek out news on faith and the law.

And so, in this newsletter, its only right to talk about how OConnor shaped the courts approach to the First Amendments religion clauses in both large and small ways.

During her nearly quarter century on the Supreme Court bench, she refined faith-related funding rules, changed how the court assessed religious displays on public property and helped prompt Congress to pass one of the most important religious freedom laws in recent history.

Many of OConnors faith-related achievements stem from the fact that, throughout her Supreme Court career, she was a swing vote. She moved back and forth between the group of conservative justices and the group of liberal ones, trying to find common ground and choosing a side when compromise wasnt possible.

Its thanks, in part, to this habit of OConnors that the court came to allow more government funding to flow to faith groups even as it reduced government entanglement with religion in other settings, according to Doug Laycock, a professor of law emeritus at the University of Virginia.

She and Justice Kennedy held the swing votes for years, and they preserved an important distinction between money and speech. Government could send money to religious institutions to perform secular functions, like providing education or social services. But it could not lead prayers or religious observances. The right wing of the Court wanted both; the left wing wanted neither. Kennedy and OConnor made a majority for either side, he told me in an email.

As Laycock noted, OConnor joined the majority in cases that enabled public money to go to private, religious schools. Those decisions stood out to Richard Garnett, a professor of law and political science at the University of Notre Dame, when I asked him to reflect on OConnors religious freedom legacy in an email.

She was a consistent vote ... for the principle that the Establishment Clause does not require education-funding programs to discriminate against parents who choose religious schools for their children. She was, in other words, a key player in one of the more significant First Amendment developments of the last 50 years, he said.

OConnor, as well as Kennedy, seemed to feel that the government could find a way to give all faith groups equal access to funds and, in that way, avoid unlawful favoritism, Laycock said. But in the context of religious displays or religious expression, its much harder for officials to treat all religions equally.

Government could not pray evenhandedly. It had to pray in some particular form. And whether it went for mushy ecumenism, or an evangelical tone, or prayers straight out of the Catholic missal, or any other choice, it was making choices. It would offer one style of prayer as the model, preferred over all the alternatives, Laycock said.

In general, OConnor worked to protect Americans of all faiths and no faith from the negative consequences of excessive government entanglement with religion, said Christine Ryan, associate director for religion and reproductive rights for the Law, Rights and Religion Project at Columbia Law School.

Justice O Connor interpreted the First Amendment in terms of its underlying purpose  protecting citizens from the disabilities or discriminations that arise when the State privileges religion or particular religions. She truly understood that preventing excessive Church-State entanglement was necessary to protect both the equality and religious liberty of persons belonging to all religious sects and none, Ryan said.

In cases dealing with religious displays on public property (think Ten Commandments monuments or a Nativity scene on a courthouse lawn), OConnor famously put forward a concept called the endorsement test, which was meant to help judges assess whether a religious display was improper.

The test focuses on a reasonable, informed observer and asks whether such an observer would conclude after viewing the religious display in question that the government was improperly endorsing religion.

The test was controversial, because it often seemed to depend on judges subjective judgments and impressions, Garnett said.

I wrote about the endorsement test  and its critics  back in 2019 as I covered the Bladensburg cross case.

OConnor also played an interesting role in the controversial Employment Division v. Smith ruling that led Congress to pass the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

In concurring with Justice Antonin Scalias majority opinion, which weakened the protections offered by the free exercise clause, she took issue with how the majority came to its decision, not the decision itself.

She still would have reached the same result, Laycock said.

Fresh off the press

How a $7 fee fueled a religious scandal

Former Vice President Mike Pence on faith, family and the Billy Graham Rule

A Catholic priest was punished over a pop stars music video. Heres what happened

Term of the week: COP28

COP28 is the common name for the United Nations 28th annual Conference of the Parties. The parties, in this case, are countries that agreed to be part of the U.N.s climate agreement back in 1992, according to the BBC.

COP28 kicked off last week in Dubai and will last until Dec. 12. Participants are discussing a range of environmental issues, from greenhouse gas emissions to the gap between climate action in richer countries and in poorer countries.

Pope Francis, who regularly advocates for caring for the environment, as Ive previously reported, was supposed to travel to the conference and deliver remarks, but he had to cancel his trip due to a lung infection. The Vatican secretary of state read the popes prepared remarks in his absence.

In the remarks read by Cardinal (Pietro) Parolin, Francis emphasized the human causes of global warming, but he added a moral critique of the consumerism, selfishness and capitalist profit motives that he views as the true root of the problem, The New York Times reported.

What Im reading ...

Artificial intelligence has the potential to radically reform our lives, including the way we interpret the Bible. But before we invite a computer to our scripture study, we need to think about whats lost when we do. We too can ask ChatGPT all the right questions, apply all the right digital tools, and still miss the whole picture of the gospel  a radical and compelling message that has been preserved and handed down through generations of the people of God, writes scholar Kaitlyn Schiess for Christianity Today.

Former Cherokee Nation chief Wilma Mankiller has been honored with a Barbie doll as part of the brands Inspiring Women series. But the dolls design is controversial, according to The Associated Press. While many Cherokee Nation leaders are pleased to see Mattel put a spotlight on Mankillers legacy, some are questioning why the tribe didnt have a chance to ask for changes to inaccurate design elements, like a symbol thats supposed to represent Cherokee but actually translates to chicken.

The hymn Amazing Grace turns 250 this year. Back in October, Religion News Service interviewed James Walvin, author of a book on the song, about what he learned from listening to thousands of performances of it.

Odds and ends

Yale Divinity School announced last week that it will cover tuition costs for all students with demonstrated need. But a social media post about the good news made it seem like the school would actually be covering tuition costs for demons.

Ever wonder how the kids who compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee learn all those words? Dev Shah, this years winner, wrote about his approach to studying for The Washington Post.

Correction: The original version of this article said that Justice Sandra Day OConnor filed a dissenting opinion in the Employment Division v. Smith case. She filed a concurring opinion, in which she laid out a different way to reach the same decision.
Shane James Jr., 34, was charged with capital murder of multiple people and booked into the Travis County Jail at 1:32 a.m. Wednesday. Austin Police Department

Bexar County resident Shane Matthew James Jr. has been charged with capital murder in connection with a killing spree across Central Texas on Tuesday.

Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said the Austin Police Department contacted his office around 8 p.m. Tuesday to say a home in the 6400 block of Port Royal on San Antonios Northeast Side might be linked to the killing of four civilians and the wounding of a cyclist, an Austin Independent School District police officer and an Austin Police Department officer earlier in the day.

Inside the home on Port Royal, police found two people dead  James parents, Shane James Sr., 56, and Phyllis James, 55.

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James Jr., 34, was booked into the Travis County Jail at 1:32 a.m. Wednesday. He also was wanted in Bexar County on three warrants for assault with injury-family violence.

Heres what we know about Shane James Jr.

He was an insurance salesman certified out of Mansfield, in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, though his current address is listed as the home on Port Royal.

According to his LinkedIn page, James earned a bachelors degree in philosophy from St. Marys University in San Antonio in 2012 and most recently was a manager for a local carwash.

His LinkedIn bio says he was an Army officer at Fort Hood from May 2014 through September 2015. James worked various jobs after serving in the military, including as a laborer on construction projects, an Uber driver and a coordinator of merchandise displays at Walmart.

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In 2020, he went into a training program in Laredo to get a commercial drivers license, but he wasnt hired as a trucker for medical reasons.

Deputies forced entry into the northeastern Bexar County home late Tuesday and found two bodies, a man and a woman in their 50s, Sheriff Salazar said.
Early morning light shines on the memorial created in honor of the 21 individuals who lost their lives on May 24, 2022, when a gunman opened fire in Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, as seen on June 4, 2022. Josie Norris/Staff photographer

Editors note: This story contains explicit language.

The children hid. They dropped to the floor, crouching under desks and countertops, far from the windows. They lined up against the walls, avoiding the elementary school doors that separated them from a mass shooter about a decade older than them. Some held up the blunted scissors that they often used to cut shapes as they prepared to fight. A few grabbed bloodied phones and dialed 911. And as students across the country have been instructed for years, they remained quiet, impossibly quiet. At times, they hushed classmates who screamed in agony from the bullets that tore through their small bodies.

Then, they waited. Waited for the adults, whom they could hear in the hallway. If they were just patient, those adults would save them.

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Hundreds of law enforcement officers descended on Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, that day in May 2022. They, too, waited. They waited for someone, anyone, to tell them what to do. They waited for the right keys and specialized equipment to open doors. They waited out of fear that the lack of ballistic shields and flash-bangs would leave them vulnerable against the power of an AR-15-style rifle. Most astonishingly, they waited for the childrens cries to confirm that people were still alive inside the classrooms.

Im watching that door. No screams. No nothing. No nothing. You know. Things you would think you would hear if there had been kids in there, Cpl. Gregory Villa, who had been with the Uvalde Police Department for 11 years, told an investigator days after the attack that left 19 children and two teachers dead.

Law enforcement officials evacuate students and staff from Robb Elementary School after a gunman entered a classroom and began shooting on May 24, 2022. Pete Luna /Uvalde Leader-News

If there were children inside, Villa said, officers would have probably heard the shooter saying, Hey, everybody shut up, and then kids are like, Oh no, I gotta, I want my mommy.

Villa, who received active shooter training four years earlier, was among several officers who told investigators that they didnt believe children were in the classrooms because they were so quiet. The childrens strict adherence to remaining silent was, in fact, part of their training. Officers own training instructs them to confront a shooter if there is reason to believe someone is hurt.

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I just honestly thought that they were in the cafeteria because it seemed like all the lights were off and it seemed like it was really quiet. I didnt hear any screaming, any yelling. I literally didnt hear anything at all, Uvalde police Staff Sgt. Eduardo Canales recalled to an investigator. You would think kids would be yelling and screaming.

The accounts of law enforcements actions during one of the worst school shootings in history are among a trove of recorded investigative interviews and body camera footage obtained by ProPublica, Texas Tribune and Frontline. Together, the hundreds of hours of audio and video offer a startling finding: The children in Uvalde were prepared, dutifully following what they had learned during active shooter drills, even as their friends and teachers were bleeding to death. Many of the officers, who had trained at least once during their careers for such a situation, were not.

In this aerial view, law enforcement work on scene at Robb Elementary School the day after 21 people were killed, including 19 children. Jordan Vonderhaar, Stringer / Getty Images

Mass shootings have become a fact of American life, with at least 120 since the 1999 Columbine High School shooting. Debates often erupt along partisan lines as anguished communities demand change. When children are gunned down, calls for tighter gun laws are matched with plans for arming teachers and hardening schools.

One thing that seemingly unites all sides is the notion of better training for law enforcement. But, in actuality, few laws exist requiring such instruction.

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In the wake of the Columbine shooting, law enforcement agencies across the country began retooling protocols to prevent long delays like the one that kept officers there from stopping the two shooters. Key among the changes was an effort to ensure that all officers had enough training to engage a shooter without having to wait for more specialized teams.

More than two decades later, law enforcements chaotic response in Uvalde and officers subsequent explanations of their inaction show that the promise of adequate training to respond to a mass shooting has yet to be fully realized.

Officers failed to set up a clear command structure. They spread incorrect information that caused them to treat the shooter as a barricaded suspect and not an active threat even as children and teachers called 911 pleading for help. And no single officer engaged the shooter despite training that says they should do so as quickly as possible if anyone is hurt. It took 77 minutes to breach the classroom and take down the shooter.

Its pretty stunning that were 24 years after the Columbine massacre, and were still dealing with a lack of training on how to deal with these active assailants, said Mo Canady, executive director of the National Association of School Resource Officers. Im not sure who is to be held responsible for that, but it really is unacceptable that officers are not getting that training.

A nationwide analysis by the news organizations shows states require far more training to prepare students and teachers for a mass shooting than they do for the police who are expected to protect them.

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At least 37 states have laws mandating that schools conduct active shooter-related drills. All but four of those states require them at least annually.

In contrast, only Texas and Michigan have laws requiring training for all officers after they graduate from police academies. Texas law is the strongest in the country, mandating that officers train for 16 hours every two years. That requirement came about only after the Uvalde massacre.

The absence of legislation has created an uneven and inconsistent approach, which fails to ensure that officers not only receive the training they need to confront a mass shooter, but drill often enough to follow it in the adrenaline-soaked atmosphere of a real shooting, law enforcement experts said. Some also emphasize the importance of multiagency training so that officers are not responding to a crisis alongside people theyve never worked with before. Yet few states, if any, require agencies to train together.

About 72% of the at least 116 state and local officers who arrived at Robb Elementary before the gunman was killed had received some form of active shooter training during their careers, according to an analysis of records obtained by ProPublica, the Tribune and Frontline. Officers who received training before the Uvalde shooting had most commonly taken it only once, which law enforcement experts say is not enough. Only three officers would have met Texas new standard for training.

Police walk near Robb Elementary School on May 24, 2022, after the mass shooting. Dario Lopez-Mills, STF / Associated Press

The news organizations reached out to each of the officers in this piece. An attorney representing officers with the Uvalde Police Department said the city has ordered them not to comment because of an ongoing internal investigation. Officers with other agencies did not return phone calls, texts and emails or declined to comment.

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Across the country, officers are increasingly responding to situations with active shooters, some of whom have access to weapons originally designed for war. In the absence of gun control legislation, sales of these types of weapons have increased.

Unlike military service members who spend the majority of their time training for the possibility that they may someday see combat, police spend the bulk of their days responding to a variety of incidents, most of which do not involve violent encounters. Experts say that leaves many unprepared as the nations tally of mass shootings grows.

No clear consensus exists on just how much training is sufficient, though experts agree on the need for repetition. Even then, consistent training cannot guarantee that officers will do everything right, said John Curnutt, assistant director at Texas State Universitys Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Center, which is rated as the national standard by the FBI. Still, Curnutt said, routine training is the best way to improve officers response.

It has to be really driven into somebody to the point where it becomes instinctive, habitual, Curnutt said. Before you really get a chance to think about it, youre already doing it. And it takes more than 10 or 11 times to get that good at something like this that is going to be incredibly difficult to do when you know that, Im about to die, but Im going to do this anyway. Who thinks like that? Not everybody. We know that. Not everybody thats in uniform does.

Praying for help

It was 11:30 a.m. on May 24, 2022. The timer that Elsa Avila set had just gone off, notifying her fourth-grade class that the extra minutes shed given them to make shoes out of newspapers for a STEM challenge had drawn to a close. Now they were going outside to test how long the shoes held up on the school track.

Avila gathered the children for a photo before they formed a single-file line. At the front, one of the students peered into the hallway. Miss, theres a class coming in and theyre screaming and theyre running to their room, Avila recalled the student saying as the teacher of 27 years described the details of that day to investigators.

Elsa Avilas students pose for a picture in their newspaper shoes moments before the shooter entered their school. Childrens faces are shown with parental consent. Credit: Courtesy of Elsa Avila, pixelated by ProPublica, the Texas Tribune and Frontline

You let their teacher worry about them, Avila replied, believing that the student was simply reporting unruly behavior.

This was different, the girl insisted. The children were scared. So, Avila peeked into the hallway.

Get in your rooms! Avila heard a woman scream.

So I just slammed my door back in, turned off the lights and, at that time, the kids know, because we practice these drills, they know: OK, shut the door, you know. Slam the lights. Weve got to go into our positions, Avila recalled.

The educator and her students formed an L, crouching down against the two walls that were farthest from the doors and windows. It was a drill theyd practiced so much that, at times, it had become tiresome. The training that Avila had hoped theyd never have to use: Run. Hide. Fight.

For now, they hid.

Avila stood up momentarily to make sure that her students were safe.

It was then that a bullet pierced the wall, ripping into the teachers stomach.

Avila fell to the ground and dropped her phone. After dragging herself to the phone, she scrolled through previous texts to find one that included a group of teachers from the school.

Im shot, she wrote at 11:35 a.m., mistakenly texting her siblings before eventually also messaging her colleagues.

Only five minutes had passed since Avilas timer rang for what was intended to be a celebratory moment.

In that time, the gunman had entered the building after crashing a truck into a nearby ditch and police had received their first 911 call from a teacher informing them that the shooter was in the school. In those five minutes, the teenage shooter unleashed nearly 100 rounds of gunfire.

One of Avilas students was among those injured. Bullet fragments struck 10-year-old Leann Garcia on the nose and mouth. Blood dripped onto her clothes as her friend, Ailyn Ramos, held her and tried to keep her from screaming out in pain.

If I die, I love you, Leann whispered to Ailyn.

As long as youre in here with me, youre not going to die, Ailyn later recalled responding in an interview with the news organizations. (Ailyns account, like those of all the children named in this piece, is included with the permission of a parent.)

With their teacher flitting in and out of consciousness, the children huddled together. For a moment they did something that their lockdown training had not taught them, but that their teacher had always told them to do in difficult times, Ailyn told the news organizations.

They prayed.

Please let the cops come in.

Diverting from the training

Outside of the school, Uvalde police Sgt. Daniel Coronado heard the unmistakable gunfire from the shooters semiautomatic rifle. Oh, shit, shots fired! Get inside, Coronado yelled at about 11:35 a.m. while breathlessly running toward the building.

Entering a smoke-filled hallway, Coronado, a 17-year veteran of the department, walked past printouts of summer sandals that had been brightly colored by children, who were now nearing their last day of school. Seconds later, there was another round of gunfire from rooms 111 and 112, the adjoining classrooms from which the shooter was terrorizing teachers and children.

The shots injured Canales and Lt. Javier Martinez, two Uvalde police officers who had initially approached the classrooms. Blood trickled from Canales ear and bullet fragments grazed Martinezs head. Both officers retreated. Though hurt, Martinez again ran toward the door. No one followed. He eventually pulled back. The officers had taken active shooter training only once: Martinez in 2014 and Canales the year before the shooting.

The failure to engage the shooter was the first in a handful of critical missteps by officers in the initial 10 minutes. Each ran counter to what the training teaches.

Among the missteps was the fact that no one took charge or set up a command post to guide the response, which experts say should happen quickly after arrival. Another was Coronados decision to relay an unconfirmed report from a school resource officer that the suspect was holed up in an office. The information proved to be inaccurate, and the misunderstanding helped shape officers approach to the incident.

Male subject is in the school on the west side of the building, Coronado radioed at 11:41 a.m. Hes contained. We got multiple officers inside the building at this time. Believe hes, uh, barricaded in one of the offices. Male subjects still shooting.

Though some officers struggled with malfunctioning radios, Coronados words reached enough of them to contribute to a widespread belief that the shooter was possibly alone inside a room with no victims, even as evidence mounted that children and teachers were in danger.

Initially believing he was responding to an active shooter, Texas Department of Public Safety Special Agent Colten Valenzuela told an investigator that his mindset changed after arriving at the school.

When we did get there, we were told that it was a barricaded subject, so that kind of flipped the direction, Valenzuela said.

Asked by an investigator about the determination that the shooter was barricaded, Coronado, who completed active shooter training a decade earlier, said: I dont know where that came out of, you know what I mean? Youre just reacting to what youre dealing with at that moment in time.

You dont see any bodies, Coronado added. You dont see any blood. You dont see anybody yelling, screaming for help. Those are motivators for you to say, Hey, get going, move, but if you dont have that, then slow down.

A mourner bows down in prayer on May 26, 2022, as he pays respects to the 21 victims of the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde. Wooden crosses have been placed near the school marquee, which became a memorial site. Kin Man Hui/Staff photographer

Uvalde is among the most striking examples of a botched police response to a mass shooting, but officers failures to immediately stop a shooter despite being trained extend beyond the Texas city, according to a ProPublica, Tribune and Frontline review of dozens of after-action reports and publicly released video. In some cases, the delays are well-known. In Orlando, Fla., officers waited about three hours to take down a shooter at the Pulse night club in 2016 despite 911 calls indicating some hostages were shot. The initial officer who responded to the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., never entered the building where a shooter killed 17 students and staff.

Other missteps have not been as widely scrutinized. In Las Vegas in 2017, two officers stayed on the hotel floor below a shooter instead of rushing upstairs to confront him as he spewed bullets into a crowd of concertgoers. The next year in Thousand Oaks, Calif., officers attempted to confront a shooter within minutes of arriving at the scene. Some retreated after he shot at them. Police did not reenter to engage the shooter again for more than 40 minutes, even as victims remained inside.

In contrast, several officers credited their repeated training after they were celebrated for acting expeditiously to take down a shooter in March at a private Christian school in Nashville, Tenn. Such instruction, they said, allowed them to momentarily ignore the emotion of stepping over a victim to get to the shooter so as to prevent further harm. About two months later, an officer in Allen, a Dallas suburb, shot a gunman minutes after his killing spree began at an outlet mall. Police and fire officials later praised years of joint training as key to the swift response.

The ability to work together was absent in Uvalde, Ruby Gonzalez, a school resource officer, told an investigator. Despite most of the officers being trained, various agencies that arrived at the scene were not accustomed to working together and had their own operating procedures, Gonzalez said.

We couldnt find a way to work together because each agency wanted to do things how they, how they see fit, she said when asked if she believed the response that day followed the training she had taken.

At the time of the Uvalde shooting, Texas required only that school resource officers take an eight-hour active shooter course. The requirement did not apply to thousands of officers in police departments and sheriffs offices across the state, contributing to vast disparities in training.

About 84% of the DPS officers who responded to the Uvalde shooting before the gunman was killed had been trained. Yet only about 67% of the Uvalde Police Department officers and roughly 36% of the Uvalde County Sheriffs Office deputies had taken active shooter courses, according to an analysis of records that detail training after officers graduate from academies.

Collectively, local and state agencies sent at least 116 officers to the Uvalde shooting before the breach. While a majority of those officers had received some instruction to confront an active shooter, about half had not been trained since 2018 or before. That was the year a gunman entered Santa Fe High School near Houston and killed 10 people.

Federal law enforcement agencies, who sent about 180 officers to the scene before and after the breach, declined to provide training records for their officers, leaving the amount of instruction they received unclear. A spokesperson for Customs and Border Protection, the agency with the majority of the federal officers on scene, said in a statement that it continues to review the response and is committed to identifying any improvements to training or tactics.

DPS and the Uvalde sheriffs office did not respond to questions about their departments training. A spokesperson for the city of Uvalde said that since the shooting, officials have purchased equipment like shields and breaching tools and have expanded training to include surrounding agencies.

Uvalde officers also will be among those required to meet Texas new standard  16 hours of instruction every two years.

The post-Uvalde mandate is rare.

In the vast majority of states, officers are only required to prepare to confront a shooter in academies that train new recruits, but even that can vary widely between four and dozens of hours of instruction. Once those officers get the training, most are not required under the law to ever take it again.

If were not training the right way and were not preparing ourselves and our kids and our responders, then were going to keep doing this for the next 25 years, said John McDonald, who developed the school safety program in Jefferson County, Colo., which includes Columbine, after the 1999 shooting. Were going to say, Geez, for 50 years we havent figured it out. Well, shame on us.

Kids in this room

Nicole Ogburn, a teacher in Room 102, used her Apple Watch to dial 911 three times but couldnt get through. On her fourth try, at 11:40 a.m., one of the citys two dispatchers finally picked up.

Ogburn reported that there was an active shooter at the school, saying she could hear the gunshots outside of her classroom.

911 dispatcher: You can hear the gunshots being fired?

Ogburn: Yeah, theyre in the building. I dont know. Theres been a lot. A whole lot. And I got a message that somebody, somebody is shot in another classroom.

911 dispatcher: Somebody is shot in a classroom, maam? OK, can you tell me 

Ogburn: Not mine. In another one. Another classroom. I dont know. I dont know. Please hurry. Hurry.

911 dispatcher: What room number? What room number? Can you tell me what room?

Ogburn: Im in Room 102.

911 dispatcher: Is he going to be across from you?

Ogburn: I dont know where hes at right now. I got to go. I cant let him hear me. I cant let him hear me.

While Ogburn was on the phone with 911, dispatchers received another call. This time from Pete Arredondo. The school district police chief, who had taken active shooter training four times during his nearly 30-year career, was supposed to take charge, according to the districts active shooter plan.

Arredondo, who had dropped his radio on the way into the school and didnt have a body camera, asked the dispatcher for backup and more equipment.

Im inside the building with this man. He has an AR-15. He shot a whole bunch of times. Were, yes, were inside the building, Arredondo told the dispatcher. Hes in one room. I need a lot of firepower, so I need this building surrounded, surrounded with as many AR-15s as possible.

In that brief moment, Arredondo would learn from the dispatcher what police could not see on the other side of the classroom doors: Someone was injured.

Arredondo does not appear to have shared the information with other officers, according to body camera footage and radio calls reviewed by the news organizations.

Active shooter training instructs that officers should act immediately if there is reliable evidence that an attacker is killing people or preventing critically injured victims from getting medical attention.

But 17 more minutes passed before officers opened the door to Ogburns classroom. Even then, their discovery of children was an accident.

Uvalde County Sheriffs deputy Reymundo Lara recalled to investigators how he came to realize there were children in the room. Lara, who had not taken active shooter training, said he took a tactical position, aiming at the classroom where the shooter remained.

I was like, you know what, my feet need to be a little bit more comfortable, Lara added. So, I get up, open the door. I propped it open so I could stick my leg in and lay back down and aim at the classroom where this suspects at. Something is telling me, Hey, just check the classroom.

At first, Lara did not see anything. The lights were off and a movie played on the TV.

Then, the deputy spotted children.

Hey, Lara yelled. We got kids in this room.

Officers rushed to help Ogburn and her students escape through the window. Kids coming out. Kids coming out. Kids coming out, Coronado said, his body camera picking up the moment they were pulled out through the window.

Coronados heart sank. Oh shit, theres kids, he recalled thinking while speaking with investigators. That was the first time that we realized, no, there are kids inside the building.

11:56 a.m.

Uvalde Police Sgts. Daniel Coronado and Donald Page tell another officer outside of the school that there are no children inside.

Coronado Body Camera Footage

11:57 a.m.

Uvalde County Sheriffs deputy Reymundo Lara opens a classroom door and discovers children inside.

Lara Body Camera Footage

11:58 a.m.

The children are evacuated from their classroom through the window.

Coronado Body Camera Footage

I thought it was a trick

Though officers were now aware that children and teachers remained in classrooms, Avila and her students continued to wait to be rescued.

Still losing blood from the gunshot wound to her stomach, the teacher knew she had to stay awake for her students.

I didnt want to pass out because I didnt want to leave them alone, she recalled in an interview with an investigator.

Moments of darkness were punctuated by the children trying to keep her calm. She could hear some of them saying, Dont let her go to sleep.

Miss, we love you. We love you, she recalled one telling her. Miss, youre going to be OK.

Avila could hear the school district chief, who began trying to negotiate with the shooter 24 minutes after officers entered the school.

Can you please put your firearm down? We dont want anyone else hurt, Arredondo said.

At one point, the children in Avilas class heard people fiddling with their door. Police open up!

I thought it was a trick, Leann, the injured 10-year-old, recalled thinking during an interview with investigators.

None of the children said anything. How could they know it was not the shooter?

Indeed, the students did as they were taught to do in their drills.

We tell kids if someones knocking on a door and says, Police officer, open up, dont open the door. We tell teachers that all the time. And we test it, said McDonald, who now serves as chief operating officer of The Council for School Safety Leadership, an organization that helps school leaders respond to threats and tragedies. That could be someone trying to trick you to come out. Cops have keys. They have the ability to breach. They have tools to get in. They will come in.

But the police didnt come into Avilas classroom at that moment. They also did not try to enter rooms 111 and 112, where the shooter remained, after learning from Ruben Ruiz, a school resource officer, that his wife, Eva Mireles, was injured in one of them.

At 11:56 a.m., Ruiz pushed urgently through a scrum of officers, attempting to get closer to his wifes classroom after shed called to tell him what happened.

She says shes shot, Johnny, Ruiz said as an officer stopped him from pressing forward.

Instead of acting on the information, officers guided him outside and took away his gun.

One of the officers who heard Ruiz was Justin Mendoza. The rookie officer, who had only been with the Uvalde Police Department for about two years, had not received active shooter training, according to state records.

Mendoza said officers knew they needed to get into the classrooms, including Mireles, but they didnt have the right equipment. His sentiment was shared by more than a dozen officers who, in interviews with investigators, expressed fear of the shooters semiautomatic rifle.

Like I said, we didnt have any shields, no, no flash-bangs, no nothing that we couldve used to create a distraction, Mendoza recalled, to, not only, like, not to sound selfish, but make sure we go home at the end of the day, but at least more of these kids can go home at the end of the day.

Though officers signed up for the job knowing that they were putting their lives at risk, theyd never been confronted with a mass shooter, Mendoza said.

None of us ever thought any of this situation would ever happen here, in Uvalde, he said.

Full of victims

About 40 minutes after the shooting began, officers received an urgent broadcast over their police radios that experts said marked another crucial moment that should have prompted them to immediately confront the shooter.

A child who was in one of the adjoining rooms with the shooter had reported a room full of victims. Full of victims at this moment, a dispatcher said over the radio.

Fuck, full of victims, one officer said aloud after hearing the radio communication. Child called 911 and said rooms full of victims.

Minutes later, the dispatcher radioed again: Be advised, we do have one teacher that is still alive with wounds and eight to nine children.

Officers did not hear the grueling 17-minute call in which 10-year-old Khloie Torres and her friend Miah Cerrillo pleaded for help, repeatedly asking for police assistance. They didnt hear Khloie, who had been struck by shrapnel from the shooters bullets, as she quietly begged for them to hurry, telling the 911 operator: Theres a lot of dead bodies. Please help. I dont want to die. The same officers who said that the childrens silence kept them from rushing the classroom didnt get to listen in as the dispatcher repeatedly told Khloie to keep the children quiet. They didnt hear her promises that officers were on their way to save Khloie and her classmates.

Despite some radios not working inside the school, officers who heard the dispatchers broadcast now knew that children and at least one adult remained alive, trapped with the shooter on the other side of the door. Those details, along with earlier signs that included sporadic gunfire and information that an officers wife was shot but still alive in the classroom, should have jogged in their minds a key lesson from training. They should have moved swiftly to stop the killing and stop the dying, experts said.

You know kids are in there. You know you have a teacher thats hurt. Youve been shot at already. Youve got an officer thats been wounded. I mean, I think the intel is there, said McDonald, the school safety expert who reviewed the footage at the request of the news organizations. The environment is there. So how do you get in that room? What are your options to get in that room? And I think that has to be a priority. You already had one officer who said his wife was in there several minutes ago. Stop the dying.

Instead, law enforcement officers, including members of a highly trained Border Patrol tactical team that had just arrived, continued to wait, even as they received some specialized equipment that they said they needed to breach the metal door and enter the classroom. No one ever checked the door to see if it was unlocked, although a state House committee that later reviewed the shooting determined it probably was.

Days after the attack, Uvalde police officer Michael Wally recalled to an investigator the moment he heard there were victims in the classroom with the shooter. It didnt make sense, Wally told him. Since he arrived at the school, hed been asking who was leading the response. Who was the officer in charge? No one provided an answer, but he was repeatedly told the school district police chief was negotiating with the shooter.

Arredondo later told the Tribune and investigators that he did not view himself as in charge. He defended his actions and those of others.

I kept going back to who is OIC. Who is, whos, whos fucking in charge? Excuse my language, but whos, whos in charge? recalled Wally, who last took an active shooter course in 2015. Im a patrol officer. I cant, you know, Im not in there. Im not in the hallway. Im not talking to our gunman. Im not talking to the guy whos talking to our gunman. No communication is coming back out to me. So theres got to be someone else. Theres got to be someone else thats in charge. Someone tell me what to do.

And you know this, youve probably been wearing a badge a lot longer than I have, Wally told the investigator, but chain of command is everything. And, it was not there.

In the absence of clear leadership and communication, misinformation continued to spread.

Shortly after the radio communication from the dispatcher, a Border Patrol medic arrived. He asked about the victims. A state game warden quickly replied that they had not heard of any injuries. Uh, yes there are, an Uvalde police detective responded.

The medic pushed his way into the building and began setting up a triage station to treat the wounded. There, law enforcement officers, including members of the Border Patrol strike team, huddled, body camera footage shows.

The minutes continued to tick away as the team prepared to enter the room.

12:12 p.m.

Uvalde police officer Justin Mendoza and Uvalde police Detective Jose Rodriguez hear a dispatcher tell officers that a child said Room 112 was full of victims.

Mendoza Body Camera Footage

12:18 p.m.

Six minutes later, state game warden Dennis Gazaway mistakenly tells Border Patrol medic Diego Merino-Ruiz that there are no injured children inside but is quickly corrected by Rodriguez.

Gazaway Body Camera Footage

Searching for a key

Though officers already had broken through windows to evacuate students, they fixated on finding keys to unlock the three classrooms that still had children in them.

Arredondo earlier had decided that they would not enter the two adjoining classrooms that would force them to confront the shooter until they cleared others first, according to his interview with investigators and body camera footage.

That left Avilas classroom. Over the years, the teacher had learned that the only way the door to Room 109 would lock was if she slammed it closed. That is just what she did that day to ensure that the shooter could not enter.

Arredondo later told investigators that he knew his decision likely would be scrutinized, but he did what he thought was best at the time. He said that he believed the shooter probably had killed at least one person inside rooms 111 and 112, but that he knew that children in other classrooms remained alive.

The preservation of life around everything around him, I felt was priority, Arredondo said.

Officers tried prying Avilas door open with a knife. They also tested various keys that did not work in search of a master key. Eventually, they decided that the only way in would be through the outside and began breaking the window.

Avilas students started crying as officers yelled, Police, were here to help you! Some ran toward the window. Others waited, Avila recalled. They still did not know whether to trust the voices from outside.

They didnt want to move until I told them to move, the injured teacher recalled. So, then I stood up, and I told them, Come on guys.

As soon as the classroom was cleared at 12:26 p.m., Arredondo signaled that officers could begin breaching the classrooms with the shooter. Got a team ready to go? Have at it, he can be heard saying on body camera footage as officers stood around him.

Its unclear if that message ever made it to the Border Patrol tactical team, which was on the other end of the hallway, or if anyone, at that point, was heeding the school district chiefs direction.

One last call

Over the next 24 minutes, Khloie and other children in Room 112 continued to rely on one another for survival.

Despite the excruciating wait, now more than 50 minutes from the time the shooter had fired the initial volley of shots, the children continued to follow their training. They hid and remained quiet, even as several of them had injuries that made such silence inconceivable.

I looked around, and I was like, people were cuddling up to each other, they were like, Im going to die, Khloie later told an investigator. And I was like: Youre not going to die. Just be really quiet.

I remember telling everybody that were going to get through this, and just dont make a sound, she added. Just be as quiet as a mouse.

Instead of being protected, Khloie told the investigator, she became the protector.

Khloie worked to calm her classmate Kendall Olivarez, who wailed in pain. Kendall was wedged under a teacher who had been killed by the shooter, and bullets had pierced the girls arm, back and leg. Khloie helped pull Kendall from under her teacher. They crawled beneath a table as they hid from the shooter who was in the adjoining classroom. Meanwhile, Mireles, their other teacher, was losing blood and cried out for her daughter.

Khloie grabbed her foot and tried to comfort her. Dont be scared, she told her.

Desperate for help, Khloies friend Miah dialed 911 one last time, pleading with the operator to send police. They were coming, the dispatcher assured her, adding that if anyone entered the classroom, the children should pretend to be asleep.

As she waited, Miah, who had been struck by shrapnel, sobbed quietly into the phone.

Finally, 77 minutes after the shooter entered the school, 54 minutes after one of the officers reported that his wife had been shot and 38 minutes after a dispatcher shared that there were victims in the classroom, the adults had arrived to help.

At 12:50 p.m., a team led by the Border Patrol strike team entered Room 111. The gunman jumped out of a closet, firing at a federal officer and grazing him in the head. Officers returned fire, killing the shooter.

Still on the phone with the 911 operator, Miah, who was hiding in Room 112, mistakenly thought the gunman was coming for her.

She later recalled the moment to an investigator, saying, I was, like, thinking it was him, he came back in the classroom. And then I look up and it was the police and all my friends started running towards them. And me and my friend were crying because we were scared. We ran to the hallway and I saw people, pass  dead and then blood on all of the floor.

First responders tried to rush out the living, taking Mireles, who still had a pulse, outside to be treated by medics. EMS declared her dead about an hour later in an ambulance that never left the school. Two children also had a pulse when they were taken out but later died. With insufficient ambulances to treat victims, police placed six children in a school bus, including Miah, Khloie and Kendall.

With them were two state troopers who were suddenly forced to act as medics, although they lacked qualifications. With blood from those who were injured around her soaked into her hair and clothes, and smeared on her face and hands, Khloie cried. She wanted her dad and she wanted to know if one of her friends survived, though she knew the answer even before asking.

She also wanted the officer to know that she had tried.

Maam, I was on the phone with the police officer, Khloie told a state trooper through tears.

Oh, that was you? the trooper asked.

Yes, maam.

OK, OK, you were so brave. Yall were so brave, OK? the officer said, stroking her head.

I was trying not to cry, Khloie replied.

1:02 p.m.

Khloie Torres, on a school bus with other classmates, tells Department of Public Safety Special Trooper Crimson Elizondo that she called 911.

Warning: The following video has a loud ringing sound and shows a distressed child covered in blood that is not her own. We are publishing it with the familys consent.

Elizondo Body Camera Footage

More than two hours after the shooting began, the school was quiet once again.

David Joy, a Border Patrol supervisor in Uvalde, picked up a body camera that an officer dropped. It was still recording.

Once in his car, he called his daughters school.

I need, I need to talk to the principal as soon as I possibly can, Joy said to the woman who answered the phone, explaining that he was a Border Patrol agent working out of the Uvalde station. After asking if she had heard about what happened, he said, Theres some stuff that was extremely like, I, like there are some issues that I have with the way things, I want to be able to talk with somebody to just give you some advice and stuff that kind of slowed us down a little bit that maybe would be able to, God forbid something, God forbid something happen and yall arent set up for it.

In the weeks that followed the shooting, hundreds of officers recounted their role in the failed response during interviews with state and federal investigators.

Some said they did all that they could under the circumstances. Others sobbed. They recalled seeing the childrens lifeless bodies, the fear in the faces of the survivors. They had already felt the anger from residents in the city of 15,000 people who were forced to bury two teachers and 19 children, some of whom were related to officers. Several wrestled with whether they could have done more. A few wondered if any amount of training could have prepared them for that day.

It, it, it was a horrific thing and we lost no matter what. Um, I, I, I want to learn from it, you know, Coronado, the Uvalde police sergeant, told an investigator. I, I want, I, I, I want, I want an opportunity to have someone better than me tell me, Hey, we couldve done this or we couldve done that. You know what I mean? I, I, I, I, I, I want that.

Two children in his family died that day. He did not attend their funerals, telling an investigator that some of his relatives think that we fucking let em die.

The initial probe by the Texas Rangers, the DPS investigative arm, is complete but has not been made public. Of the hundreds of officers who responded that day, less than a handful have been fired, including Arredondo. An attorney representing Arredondo released a statement before he was terminated, saying that his client was being used as a fall guy. Several officers from various agencies either resigned, were reassigned or retired.

News organizations, including ProPublica and the Tribune, have sued the state for records that would help families and the public better understand what happened that day. The state has repeatedly fought their release, citing an ongoing criminal investigation by the Uvalde district attorney, who has said she plans to present a case before a grand jury this year. A state district judge ruled in the newsrooms favor, though DPS has said it plans to appeal.

The wait for the findings has now grown to 18 months. Its unclear whether and when they will be released.

I just wish someone would have taken charge. I wish someone wouldve , Wally, the Uvalde police officer, said while talking with an investigator in the days after the shooting, his voice trailing off. And I know this is going to be open record one day. Let it be on open record. Fuck politics. Someone take charge. Lets fix this. Thats what I wanted. Thats what everybody wanted.
A local history professor and Holocaust expert has been internationally recognized for his work on a little-known aspect of the Nazi genocide  troops who carried it out were fueled by alcohol.

Drunk on Genocide: Alcohol and Mass Murder in Nazi Germany, the 2021 work by Texas A&M University-San Antonio Regents Professor of history Edward B. Westermann, has received the International Book Prize for Holocaust Research.

The book explores the role alcohol and drinking rituals played in the Holocaust, challenging misconceptions about the SS, the elite guard of the Nazi Reich and Adolf Hitlers security force.

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An international panel of judges indicated the book is a stellar contribution to Holocaust and perpetrator studies, the university said in a release.

Edward B. Westermann, a professor at Texas A&M University-San Antonio, has been recognized for his book Drunk on Genocide: Alcohol and Mass Murder in Nazi Germany. Courtesy Photo / San Antonio Public Library

Spurs players Sandro Mamukelashvili, left, and Zach Collins study exhibits at the U.S. Memorial Holocaust Museum in Washington during a tour in March. Spurs courtesy photo

The Yad Vashems International Institute for Holocaust Research in Jerusalem presented the award to Westermann in a virtual ceremony Monday. For more than two decades, Yad Vashem has awarded the prize to encourage further exploration of new Holocaust topics, or those requiring re-evaluation in light of new discoveries.

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I am humbled by this prestigious award, Westermann said, according to the release. I accept it in honor of the spirit and memory of my friends and Holocaust survivors who have enriched my life with their passion and deep commitment to Holocaust education. Many of them are now gone, but they will not be forgotten as long as we continue to tell their stories.

Established in 1953, Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, has museums, exhibitions, monuments, sculptures and memorial sites. In 1993, it established the research institute to encourage and support worldwide scholarly work on the Holocaust and related issues.

Earlier this year, Westermann was named one of 10 Piper Professors in Texas for 2023 by the Minnie Stevens Piper Foundation. Selections are based on nominations submitted by Texas colleges and universities for exceptional teaching at the collegiate level.

Westermann, 61, grew up in Temple and served 25 years in the Air Force, becoming a colonel and overseeing the services basic training as commander of Lackland AFBs 737th Training Group. He started at A&M-San Antonio in 2010 as an associate professor of history and was named director of international education in 2014, then regent professor of history a year later.

Anna Salton Eisen shows drawings and paintings her father made depicting his time at several concentration camps. She participated in a closing ceremony for the San Antonio Pubic Library and the Holocaust Museum of San Antonios series The Holocaust: Learn and Remember at the Mission Branch Library in January. Kaylee Greenlee Beal

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Anna Salton Eisen shows drawings and paintings her father made depicting his time at several concentration camps. She participated in a closing ceremony for the San Antonio Pubic Library and the Holocaust Museum of San Antonios series The Holocaust: Learn and Remember at the Mission Branch Library in January. KAYLEE GREENLEE BEAL 2023

In January, Westermann gave a local lecture on letters sent home by Nazi soldiers for the San Antonio Public Librarys annual Learn and Remember series commemorating Texas Holocaust Remembrance Week. In some instances, Westermann said, the translated letters chronicled changes in Nazi troops who became hardened over time.

One example he cited was Karl Kretschmer of the Schutzstaffel (SS), who described in a 1942 message to his family his approach to becoming desensitized to the killing.

It is a weakness not to be able to stand the sight of dead people; the best way of overcoming it is to do it more often. Then it becomes a habit, Kretschmer wrote.

Westermann received a doctorate from the University of North Carolina and has published extensively on the Holocaust and military history. His works include Hitlers Ostkrieg and the Indian Wars: Comparing Genocide and Conquest, Hitlers Police Battalions: Enforcing Racial War in the East and Flak: German Anti-aircraft Defenses, 1914-1945.
Senior Curator and Historian Ernesto Rodriguez talks to news media at The Alamo's Ralston Family Collections Center on Feb. 28. Josie Norris / San Antonio Express-News

Nine months after opening, the Alamos new collections center is now a contender for the title of Best New Attraction in America.

The Alamo Exhibit, a display of some 500-plus artifacts, documents, photos and other components of the Alamos Ralston Family Collections Center, is currently in the No. 2 spot for the USA Today Readers Choice 2024 competition. Online voting runs through Dec. 25.

The exhibit, which opened to the public March 3, features artifacts and other items from the mission and battle sites 300 years of history, including relics donated by rock star Phil Collins and objects from the Spanish colonial era purchased from renowned Western artist Donald Yena.

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Guests look over a refurbished 14-by-9.5-foot Alamo diorama on display in the Alamo Exhibit on Feb. 28. The Alamo's new Ralston Family Collections Center, which includes the exhibit, has been nominated for the title of "Best New Attraction in America" by USA Today. Online voting continues through Dec. 25. Josie Norris / San Antonio Express-News

Collectors Donald M. Yena and his wife Louise Yena share a moment at The Alamo's Ralston Family Collections Center on Feb. 28. The center povides 10,000 square feet of exhibit space, along with storage and curation labs, and is the first new building on the Alamo ground in more than 70 years. Josie Norris / San Antonio Express-News

The collections center has had about 175,000 visitors since it opened and is expected to end the year at 185,000. In the spring and summer, it had an average of 20,000 visitors per month.

By the centers five-month anniversary on August 3, 2023, we celebrated our 100,000th visitor, said Alamo Communications Director Jonathan Huhn.

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The facility, the first new structure on the Alamo grounds since the 1950s, charges a regular adult admission of $14, with discounts for children, military, first responders and seniors 65 and over. Huhn called it an appetizer for the main course of the Alamo project: a museum and visitor center set to open in Alamo Plaza in 2027, with more than three times the gallery space.

The centers attendance figures and its potential listing as the nations best new attraction are encouraging, Huhn said, but the Alamo wants to expand its overall visitation from 1.6 million people annually to 2.5 million once the project is completed.

When it comes to Texas history, few landmarks match the significance of San Antonios Alamo  and for any hardcore history buffs, the Alamo Exhibit offers a wealth of information, USA Today says in its entry. During a visit, guests can peruse the many artifacts on display in the Donald and Louise Yena Spanish Colonial Collection, while the Phil Collins Collection is equipped with a diorama thats narrated by the world-famous musician himself.

Some of the most popular items from the Alamos collection, including a ring belonging to Texian commander William Barret Travis and a fanciful vest once worn by David Crockett, are on exhibit. Designed by Gensler and GRG Architecture and constructed by Clark/Guido, the two-story center also showcases select items from the Collins collection, including a battle-era cannonball and Mexican cavalry soldiers helmet.

Collins narration of the 14-by-9.5-foot Alamo diorama, built and recently restored by Alamo artist Mark Lemon, explains the layout of the 1836 compound and a battle that ended a 13-day siege, even as delegates met 150 miles to the east to declare Texas an independent republic.

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A nine-pound cannon  denoting the weight of the projectile it could fire  is seen on display at The Alamos Ralston Family Collections Center on Feb. 28. The cannon was donated by the late billionaire Red McCombs. Josie Norris / San Antonio Express-News

USA Today editors narrowed an initial list of nominations from travel writers into a competing set of rankings. Readers can cast one vote daily. The No. 1 spot in the competition is currently held by Little Plumeria Farms, a 20-acre estate in Hawaii, on the island of Oahu.

Opened to the public in 2023, vibrant flowers are the main attraction around here, with hour-long farm tours providing guests with an opportunity to bask in stunning landscapes and even take home a few plants of their own, the publication says of the Hawaiian location.

The Alamo Trust, which opened its exhibit as part of a $550 million redevelopment of the historic site in downtown San Antonio, said the nomination underscores the Alamos commitment to enriching experiences for visitors to Texas top tourist destination.

Special guests get a tour of The Alamo's Ralston Family Collections Center on Feb. 28. Josie Norris / San Antonio Express-News

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A vest belonging to David Crockett is displayed at The Alamo's Ralston Family Collections Center. Josie Norris / San Antonio Express-News

In May, the Alamo was voted the Best Free Attraction in USA Todays 10 Best Readers Choice Awards, a victory made possible by the robust support of its community and visitors, the trust said.

Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, whose agency oversees the state-owned site, has encouraged Texans to vote again for the Alamo  every day until Christmas, if possible.

A refurbished 14-by-9.5-foot Alamo diorama at The Alamo's Ralston Family Collections Center is displayed against a large scale rendering of the battle after a painting by Donald Yena. Josie Norris / San Antonio Express-News

The Alamo Exhibit has been nominated for this prestigious award that not only recognizes incredible attractions and businesses, but also provides these locations as recommendations to readers for future experiences, Buckingham said.

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A reader wonders just how any lawmaker could vote against expelling New York Republican George Santos from the U.S. House of Representatives. John Locher, STF / Associated Press

Out of step with JFK

Since former President Barack Obama proclaimed in October 2008 an intent to fundamentally transform the United States of America, few could argue that his administration and now that of Joe Biden have failed to deliver a dramatic change in the culture of America.

There is boldness in which far-left progressives flaunt their disregard of traditional American values and the Constitution of the United States, not to mention the weaponizing of government agencies in intimidating everyday citizens simply exercising their constitutional rights of peaceful assembly and free speech.

Teamed with their willing allies in academia and the media, the modern Democratic Party is clearly out of step with the party of former President John F. Kennedy in the 1960s.

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Its stunning just how intellectually bankrupt, as well as ideologically corrupt, the Democratic Party and their allies have become. Every facet of American society is under attack, and where it leads cannot be good.

James Loe

Feelings about economy

Re: "Numbers dont lie when it comes to the economy," Another View, Saturday:

How the public feels about the economy seems to be an inconvenient truth for New York Times columnist Paul Krugman.

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His desired narrative and agenda are not supported by his journalistic friends. Actually, he lectures people about their feelings. Dont we know we should feel good about the prices of what we are buying? Apparently, we are just not smart enough to understand the nuances of economics.

Wayne Stoeber

Putting power above truth

Voting results: 112 Republicans and two Democrats voted not to expel George Santos from the U.S. House of Representatives after he lied dozens of times in every part of his career for the last two years.

Sadly, many Republicans dont care about the integrity of the office. Similarly, a former president who lied more than 30,000 times over four years hasnt changed their minds either. Its a shame that for some, protecting their own to stay in power outweighs the simple principles of telling the truth.

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Adam Castillo

Buyback worth the effort

The gun buyback in San Antonio was a huge success. I was there handing out gun safety information and was impressed with the turnout.

I talked with retired police officers and retired military who wanted to get all the guns out of their houses. Every gun left in a car or a house can be stolen and used to commit crimes. Improperly secured guns can be used as deadly toys by children, or as a means of suicide for teens and adults in crisis.

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If we prevented even one of those guns from killing someone, the effort was well worth it. I would gladly donate my time to help with future gun buybacks.
Indicted Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Pfizer, alleging that the company misled the public about its COVID-19 vaccine. Even by Paxton's standards this is a real low. Eric Gay/AP

Ken Paxtons latest lawsuit begins with this declaration: The COVID-19 vaccines are the miracle that wasnt.

The indicted Texas attorney general argues that exaggerated claims were made about the vaccine and the public was deceived. Hes incensed about it, and hes seeking more than $10 million in civil fines.

Its true that we heard some effusive praise about the COVID vaccine during its rollout in late 2020.

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We heard it described as a monumental national achievement, really amazing and somewhat of a miracle.

Those plaudits did not come from a pharmaceutical executive. They were uttered by then-President Donald Trump, Paxtons friend and political hero.

Given Trumps role in what Paxton defines as a falsehood perpetrated on the nation, its curious that the former presidents name does not appear in the 54-page lawsuit that Paxton filed Nov. 30 in Lubbock County District Court against vaccine manufacturer Pfizer.

While castigating Pfizer for producing what he calls an ineffective vaccine, Paxton refrains from mentioning that Trump, at a Dec. 8, 2020, White House event celebrating the successful development of the COVID vaccine, said, Were very hopeful that the (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) will authorize the Pfizer vaccine within days. Weve got to get it moving.

Three days later, the FDA fulfilled Trumps hopes, granting Pfizer emergency use authorization to manufacture a vaccine to combat the worst pandemic of the past 100 years.

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Paxton contends that Pfizer misled the nation with its November 2020 announcement that late-stage testing had found the vaccine to be 95% effective.

The attorney general devotes a huge chunk of his legal filing to attacking the methodology and terminology behind those test results.

While its probably true that the 95% efficacy figure cited by Pfizer (and the 94.5% figure used by Moderna, another leading COVID-19 vaccine manufacturer) confused some people, it was based on a simple principle.

In tests involving about 44,000 participants, half were given the Pfizer vaccine and the other half received a placebo. Of the 170 COVID cases that emerged, 162 were placebo recipients. Only eight received the actual vaccine. In other words, 95% of the people suffering from COVID-19 were unvaccinated. Thats where the number came from.

The vaccine delivers a snippet of the COVID-19 virus genetic code, enabling the body to develop antibodies and fortify itself against the most severe symptoms of the virus.

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Even if you contract COVID-19, the vaccine can help your body rid itself of the virus faster than it otherwise would, thereby making you infectious for a shorter period and reducing the risk youll pass the virus on to others.

Paxton argues, however, that Pfizer representatives falsely claimed their vaccine would not only guard against COVID-19 symptoms but also prevent asymptomatic infections.

He points to a July 9, 2020, Time magazine interview with Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla, in which the executive said early data indicated that the vaccine was able to kill the virus, although Bourla followed up by more accurately stating that the vaccine could "neutralize the virus.

Paxton conveniently excludes a caveat that Bourla issued later in that same interview.

We will only know if the vaccine works when we have the final study, Bourla said.

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Paxton also cherry-picks his numbers to argue that COVID deaths went up after the Pfizer vaccine became available.

Its a transparently cynical ploy from an elected official who uses the court system as a playground on which he can pander to his right-wing, culture-warrior base.

In January 2021, as the COVID vaccines were beginning to be distributed and administered, the United States averaged more than 3,000 COVID-related deaths per day.

Five months later, even with several states  including Texas  lifting COVID-19 public-health restrictions, COVID deaths were down to about 300 per day. What could have possibly contributed to that improvement? Could it be the fact that millions of Americans got vaccinated?

The Texas Department of State Health Services online dashboard states that unvaccinated Texans are 11 times more likely to die of a COVID-19-associated illness than someone who has received the updated COVID bivalent booster.

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Julian Castro, former San Antonio mayor and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, will split time between California and Texas as head of the Latino Community Foundation. Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

SAN FRANCISCO  Former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julian Castro, a 2020 presidential candidate, will head the nations largest Latino-serving foundation starting in 2024, the foundation announced Wednesday.

Castro, who served as mayor of San Antonio prior to joining the Obama administration, will become the new CEO for the San Francisco-based Latino Community Foundation, replacing outgoing head Jacqueline Martinez Garcel.

Jacqueline has done a phenomenal job of growing the endowment over the years, Castro said in an interview. He declined to offer specific goals for the organization before he starts Jan. 1. Id like to supercharge that effort, Castro said.

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Americas destiny and the destiny of Latinos are intertwined, Castro said, as Latinos represent 19% of the U.S. population and are the fastest-growing racial and ethnic voting group: Only if Latinos do well, can the country as a whole do well because more than 25% of the kids in this country are Latino.

Were in the drivers seat of Americas future, but to unlock the full potential of Latino communities and our nation as a whole, we must invest more in Latino and Latino-led organizations, Castro said. My vision is for LCF to fund a national movement of Latino power building that results in a more inclusive and equitable America.

Castro, who failed to win the Democratic nomination for president in a hotly contested race in 2020, currently lives in Texas. He said he doesnt plan to move to California but will travel often to the state. Castros name recognition could help to bring the foundation into the national spotlight as it endeavors to both deepen the foundations footprint in California and bring its blueprint for social progress to Latinos across the country, according to the foundation.

Castro said he envisions that would mean not only expanding to other states with large Latino populations like Texas, Arizona and Nevada, but to small rural communities in other states.

The Latino community doesnt just exist in states like California and Texas and Florida, its all over the place now, Castro said. The needs are tremendous.

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But Castro said he doesnt envision the foundation decreasing its work in California.

Founded in 1989, the LCF boasts the largest network Latino philanthropists in the country. It has invested over $29.6 million into more than 400 grassroots, predominantly Latino-led nonprofits across the state, and in all has raised $97 million to build Latino civic and political power. The LCF said in the most recent Get out the Vote and Census campaigns, the organization reached over 31 million Latinos, and it played a significant role in getting Californias Latino voter registration rate up to 73%, the highest in history.

Noting that Latino voters will be key in who wins several battleground House districts in California that will determine control of Congress next year, Castro said, In a nonpartisan way, were going to be involved with making sure that Latinos are informed and that theyre mobilized to get out and vote and exercise that franchise. And eventually were going to make sure that that happens outside California as well.

Castro did not shut the door on his political career, however.
Daniel Miller speaks about how and why Texas should leave the United States of America during the Rally Against Censorship held Jan. 26 at the Lone Star Convention & Expo Center in Conroe. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer

Daniel Miller wants Texas to leave the United States. And he believes a majority of Texans want the same thing.

Miller, the president of the pro-secession Texas Nationalist Movement, says his organization has gathered more than the roughly 98,000 signatures needed to place the question on the GOP primary ballot next spring. Hell hand them into the Texas Republican Party by the Monday deadline  and from there, party leaders must verify signatures and decide whether to place the nonbinding question on the March 5 ballot.

If they try not to, Miller said, hes prepared to go to court.

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Let the people of Texas have their say, he said in an interview. If no one believes in it, then you get to shut me up.

Miller, a freelance technology consultant from Southeast Texas, has been the face of the state secessionist movement, better known as TEXIT, for decades. He believes Texas would be better off economically and socially if it were an independent nation. He says theres a legal basis for secession, though its untested, and frames the issue as a matter of grassroots political power.

Adding the question to the GOP primary ballot would not actually dictate that the state should secede or make that an official position of the state party. It would serve instead as a poll of where Republican voters stand on the issue.

Legal experts and historians have long said that secession is both an unpopular and unconstitutional idea. Politicians, and even some of the most conservative members of the Republican Party, have balked at the effort, characterizing it as a fringe movement that works against the goals of bettering Texas and the United States.

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At a meeting in Austin last weekend, the Texas GOPs 64-member executive board overwhelmingly rejected the Texas Nationalist Movements request to add the referendum to the ballot outright. Members of the group showed up in person to ask executive committee members for their support, arguing also that posing the question to voters could greatly increase turnout in the primary election.

Call me cynical, but Im not dumb, said Rolando Garcia, a Houston-area member of the GOPs executive committee. He questioned whether the group gathered enough valid signatures and suggested its effort to simply get the committee to put it on the ballot raised serious doubts.

They want (a majority of the executive board) to do what they could not get enough signatures to do, because its easier to bring 20 people to a meeting and lobby a body of 60 people than it is to actually collect 97,000 signatures, he said.

Garcia warned that placing such a question on the ballot would tell Texas GOP voters that the state party is not paying attention to issues they actually care about, like crime and border security.

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Its not a matter that this will pass or that theres any danger of Texas actually seceding, at least not in the near future, he said. The danger is by even having this on the ballot, we become the party of secession, and I would urge this body: do not give a tiny, small movement the legitimacy that it could not earn through actual support.

Still, the Texas GOP platform, which was approved at the partys convention last year, encourages the state Legislature to approve a general ballot referendum to determine whether or not the State of Texas should reassert its status as an independent nation. The platform also states that Texas retains the right to secede from the United States.

James Wesolek, a spokesman for the Texas GOP, declined to answer questions about the signature verification process on Tuesday because the party had not yet received the petitions.

Miller, who also ran an unsuccessful campaign for lieutenant governor last year, said there is growing support for the TEXIT movement, even if some people dont want to acknowledge that this is happening. (Miller came second in the six-person GOP race for lieutenant governor, earning just 6.9 percent of the vote.)

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His organization publicly lists the number of volunteers and other allies it has online just to give everyone an idea of the level of support that we got, Miller said. Its website on Wednesday said the group has about 3,000 volunteers and more than 600,000 registered supporters. As of mid-July, the groups PAC reported roughly $6,000 in its coffers.

He said those volunteers have been working around the clock to collect signatures both in person and online. The Texas Nationalist Movement also launched a petition effort to place the secession question on the Democratic primary ballot, which came very close, Miller said.

The organization would have needed about 54,000 signatures to get on the Democratic ballot. He wouldnt say how many theyd gathered.

Its important for folks to understand that this is not a Republican issue only  this is a Texas issue, and both parties almost got to have their say in it, he said.

Miller said he already has retained an attorney to help his organization if the Texas GOP tries to block the question on some technicality.

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Hong Kong 'outlaw' jumps bail into the fire

08:23, December 06, 2023 By Zhang Zhouxiang ( China Daily

Photo taken on July 14, 2020 shows the Golden Bauhinia Square in Hong Kong, July 14, 2020. [Photo/Xinhua]

Two years after she appeared in public the last time, Agnes Chow Ting, who played a leading role in the waves of protest in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in 2019, has said she will never return from Canada.

That's a tight slap on the face of the home-haters in Hong Kong who claimed they fight for "freedom" and "democracy". Chow was found guilty and was sentenced to prison in 2020, and was restricted from leaving the SAR because she was still under investigation, though out on bail. It was at her request that the local police allowed her to go to Canada for higher studies. She had promised to report to the police routinely, whenever required. However, she recently announced on a social networking site that she will never return. Both the judicial system and the police in Hong Kong followed the rule of law, but Chow, obviously, doesn't have any respect for that. If she and her friends didn't intend to obey the law or pay a price for violating it, why did these home-haters boast about other values such as "democracy" or "freedom"?

When Chow was charged in 2020, she cried in court. The judge sentenced her to 10 months in prison, and the police later gave her a chance to improve by allowing her to travel to Canada for studies. But instead of respecting the rule of law, she fled. After all for her the law is nothing but a scrap of paper to be torn up at any time.

The Hong Kong SAR government vowed on Monday to pursue Chow in accordance with the law and condemned her act of absconding. It might be difficult for them to bring her back considering the anti-China narrative in the West. But as long as there are posters showing that Chow is wanted by the police back home, she will remain an outlaw. She needs to act wisely and shoulder responsibility for her deeds.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Notorious serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer's father, Lionel Dahmer, passed away in a nursing home in Ohio at 87.

Lionel was a chemical analyst and a father of two, including Jeffrey Dahmer, who was dubbed the Milwaukee Cannibal.

Lionel Dies at 87

On Tuesday, an employee at the Medina County Health Department confirmed that Lionel died under care in Medina County and passed away from unknown causes. The exact date of his death remained unknown.

Lionel's death came almost a year after his wife Shari died on January 13 at a nursing home in Seville, located roughly 25 miles outside of Akron. His wife died due to various health problems and complications.

According to Mirror, he supported his son and stood by him until his last breath. He spent his final years living in his hometown in Seville, Ohio.

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Lionel as a Father

Lionel said he stuck by his son despite Jeffrey killing 17 people. In 1994, he told Oprah, "I still love my son. I'll always stick by him - I always have."

He was a regular visitor of Jeffrey in prison until he was beaten to death with a metal bar by a fellow prisoner, Christopher Scarver, in 1994, less than a year after he was convicted of his heinous crimes.

Jeb, Lionel's caretaker, revealed that the elderly man still got pissed every time Scarver's name was brought up. Jeb said that Lionel was still angry about what happened and believed that the guards looked the other way and let it happen.

Lionel separated with Dahmer's mother, Joyce Flint, in 1978 when Jeffrey was around 18 and his brother David was 12.

He wrote a book titled "A Father's Story" about how he brought up Dahmer from his perspective and tried to examine what made Jeffrey commit the crimes he did. He admitted that he was aware of his son's heavy drinking, aimless nature, and fascination with dead animals.

He added that he had made many attempts to get through and encourage him to live a normal life. He admitted that he was still uncertain as to why Jeffrey became a murderer.

Lionel said in an interview with Dr. Phil aired in 2022 that, at first, he could not fathom how he turned out to be this far down the continuum. He added that we are all on a continuum, we all do bad things, and we all sin.

Lionel tried to live a private life, but he could not escape his son's name after Netflix dropped a murder series about his son. He shared that deranged fans would show up at his door, acting hostile and aggressive, and one woman even left her underwear on his lawn.

He considered suing Netflix for glamorizing his son's crimes in a dramatic series and for not contacting his son's legal team to get permission to access the tape recordings used in the documentary.

Related Article: SCOTUS Justice Sandra Day O'Connor Dead at 93





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A federal appeals court ruled in favor of the state of Texas and against the Biden administration about allowing Border Patrol agents to remove barbed wires on the border.

The ruling was made by the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals in an administration stay that temporarily paused a prior court ruling on Monday. This was done after Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton made a swift appeal.

Federal Appeals Court Rules in Favor of Texas

The appeal was made against a ruling made by US District Judge Alia Moses, where she declined to issue an injunction that blocks the federal government from removing the wire. The state of Texas sued the current administration for its practice of cutting the border wire in late October.

In a statement following the ruling, Paxton said he was pleased that the court recognized the extent of the federal government's efforts to subvert law and order at Texas' border with Mexico. He said it was a crucial step to support the state's right to protect its citizens from Biden's doctrine of open borders, as per the Western Journal.

The Republican lawmaker said that the president's policy threatens the safety of Americans, noting that they would continue to fight it every step of the way. In Moses' Wednesday ruling, the judge said that the evidence "amply demonstrates the utter failure of the Biden administration in deterring, preventing, and halting unlawful entry into the US.

Moses' ruling was seen as a temporary defeat for Texas officials who argued that Border Patrol agents have repeatedly cut, damaged, or moved some of the wire on the border. These stretched roughly 30 miles near the border city of Eagle Pass.

That area is where large numbers of migrants have crossed in the past few months amid the country's migrant crisis. Moses noted that using the razor wire had proven effective in deterring migrants elsewhere along Texas' southern border.

Read Also: Texas To Keep Busing Migrants to Sanctuary Cities Until Biden Acts on Border Crisis

Using Barbed Wire To Deter Migrants

Following Moses' Wednesday ruling, Border Patrol agents were allowed to cut the barbed wires in emergencies. This includes when a migrant on the other side of the blockade needs medical assistance, according to the Associated Press.

However, Texas officials argued that federal agents were also cutting down the wires to help groups of migrants illegally cross through the river before taking them in for processing. Moses noted that the state failed to prove that wire cutting was a formal policy.

The state of Texas also installed razor wire around El Paso and the Rio Grande Valley, where migrants have also been recorded to cross in large numbers. However, the barrier drew the sharpest criticism in Eagle Pass due to reports of injuries.

Paxton's lawsuit against Border Patrol agents claimed they had recently stepped up the existing practice of cutting wire. This allegedly included a barbed wire set up strategically with landowners' permission.

On top of this, Texas is separately defending its authority to install floating buoys in the middle of the Rio Grande to deter migrants from swimming across. According to Reuters, a federal judge ordered the barrier removed in September.

Related Article: American Immigration Council Map 2023: Immigrant Contribution to US

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A passenger bus in the Philippines that was carrying more than 50 people drove off a cliff in Antique, killing dozens.

The bus accident occurred on Tuesday in Barangay Fabrica in Hamtic, Antique. The Antique provincial government and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) said in a developing report that at least 16 people died.

Antique Bus Crash

Officials noted that among the victims were eight who were in critical condition and four others who were considered to be in stable condition. The Ceres Liner bus was said to have been traveling to San Jose de Buenavista, Panay, before driving off the notoriously named "killer curve."

Local authorities said that they have not yet determined the exact cause of the accident. They added that some surviving injured passengers were brought to the Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital. In a statement, Antique Gov. Rhodora Cadiao said that the provincial government would shoulder all the victims' medical expenses, as per CNN.

She noted that for the families of the victims, it was not the right time to say, "Don't worry." Cadiao added that they were assuring them that whatever hospitalization, medicines, or other needs that they were given would be taken care of.

The governor's remarks on Facebook also noted that she would release an initial financial assistance of roughly $360 to help the victims' families. Later, authorities noted that the bus allegedly had a brake malfunction while driving on a winding road that caused it to fall off a cliff and plunged 30 meters into a ravine.

Cadiao cited how notorious that particular road is and noted that the latest accident marks the second bus that fell off the killer curve. In a Facebook post, the provincial government of Antique said that retrieval operations were halted after all visible bodies on site were pulled up, according to the South China Morning Post.

Read Also: Philippine State Lottery PCSO Says Its Facebook Page Got Hacked

Falling Off the "Killer Curve"

The passenger bus was said to have fallen off the highway in a part with no concrete barrier. Cadiao added that they have already brought the Department of Public Works and Highways to the attention regarding the incident because the engineering design might be faulty.

The crash comes after a separate bus accident last month resulted in the death of two people and injury of several others in Naga. The fatalities were two men riding on a motorcycle that collided head-on with a tourist bus along SItio Mohon, Barangay Langtad, in the early morning of Nov. 19.

The injuries were found on eight foreign tourists, all Taiwanese nationals, traveling to watch the butanding (whale shark) in Oslob town in Southern Cebu. The Naga City Police Station said in a report that the motorcycle driver and passenger were supposedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident.

Law enforcement authorities added that this theory was made because the motorcycle driver and passenger were supposedly seen by witnesses "surfing" or dancing on the motorcycle as it zigzagged before ramming into the larger vehicle, said Cebu Daily News.

Related Article: Filipino Senator Warns of China's Actions as Christmas Convoy Gets Green-Lit

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A top United Nations official warned of delays to Gaza aid due to the "apocalyptic" conditions in the southern parts of the war-torn region as the conflict between Israel and the Hamas militant group rages.

The UN emergency relief coordinator, Martin Griffiths said that the Israeli military campaign in southern Gaza has been just as devastating as in the north. He noted that the situation ended any possibility of meaningful humanitarian operations in the region.

Gaza Aid Delayed

Griffiths said that he was speaking on behalf of the entire international aid community when he said that the offensive robbed air workers of any significant means of assisting the people of Gaza, which number roughly 2.3 million, other than to call for an immediate ceasefire.

The UN official's comments came as the Israeli military said that it attacked southern Gaza's main city in the most intense day of fighting so far. Officials noted that hospitals have struggled to cope with scores of dead and wounded Palestinians, as per The Guardian.

During an interview, Griffiths said that the small amount of aid that was being allowed into Gaza could no longer be distributed due to Israel's ground offensive spreading to the southern parts of the region.

He added that it was no longer a statistically significant operation, noting that it was like patching a wound. Griffiths said there is an illusion that the world thinks the humanitarian operation can help Gaza under current conditions.

The development comes as the Israel Defense Force (IDF) launched a ground offensive into the northern parts of Gaza on Oct. 27. This came almost three weeks after the Hamas militant group attacked the Middle Eastern country on Oct. 7, killing more than 1,200 Israelis.

The situation comes as US aid chief Samantha Power traveled to Egypt's Sinai Peninsula on Tuesday. There, she announced more than $21 million in additional aid for the Palestinian people who are being affected by the war between Israel and Hamas, according to Reuters.

Power arrived in Al Arish, bringing a delivery of 36,000 pounds of food assistance and medical supplies. These were airlifted by the Department of Defense from Jordan and are intended to be delivered to Gaza.

Read Also: Israel Reveals Hamas Shot Female IDF Soldiers in 'Intimate Parts'

UN Warns of Conditions in War-Torn Region

The additional aid that the USAID administrator announced will support the provision of hygiene and shelter supplies, food, and other assistance for Gaza residents and people in the West Bank.

The funds are also meant to support psychosocial care and critical health services, along with the establishment of an NGO-operated field hospital in the war-torn region that would provide in-patient care.

The continuation of the conflict between the two sides began after the deterioration of a ceasefire where Israel and Hamas exchanged prisoners. Out of the roughly 240 individuals taken by the militant group, dozens were released with the help of the agreement.

Gaza health authorities claim that more than 15,000 people have so far been killed in the region since Oct. 7. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNWRA, echoed humanitarians' concerns for civilians caught in the war. It noted that in Rafah city, people were being forced to flee against a backdrop of airstrikes, said UN News.

Related Article: Hamas Allegedly Drugged Captives Prior to Release So They Appear Calm: Report

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to reject calls for a strict plan regarding the deportation of Channel migrants to Rwanda. Instead, the government intends to keep an option open for European judges to intervene in the process.

This decision comes amid growing concerns from right-wing members of the Conservative Party, who have been pressing for a hardline approach to the deportation of migrants arriving via small boats, as per Mail Online.

UK Prime Minister's ECHR Debate on Rwanda Asylum Plan

The Prime Minister is discussing plans under which the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg will retain the authority to consider whether Channel migrants can be sent to Rwanda.

Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron has emphasized the need for "flexibility" on the part of Strasbourg judges. Meanwhile, the Home Secretary, James Cleverly, recently traveled to Rwanda to finalize a new treaty addressing concerns raised by the Supreme Court.

Under this treaty, almost all boat migrants will be granted residency in Rwanda, even those with failed asylum claims. However, the Rwandan government will retain the power to veto any asylum seeker, and the UK will accept a portion of Rwanda's refugees, incurring additional costs beyond the 140 ($176) million already spent.

Mr. Sunak is currently working with lawyers on emergency legislation that will declare Rwanda a "safe country" for deportation. This legislation, expected to be introduced soon, aims to address the concerns raised by the Supreme Court's ruling that declared the government's Rwanda policy unlawful.

One Nation Tory MPs are urging caution, with Chairman Damian Green stating that "long-term, difficult decisions" should not be rushed. On the other hand, Centrist Tory MPs have warned that overriding the European Convention on Human Rights to implement the Rwanda asylum plan would be a "red line" for them.

Members of the right-wing European Research Group (ERG), along with MPs from Common Sense and New Conservative groups, have set up a "Star Chamber" to evaluate the new laws' compatibility with parliamentary sovereignty and its wording regarding deportation flights to Rwanda, according to The Sun.

Read Also: 23 Presumed Dead as Indonesia's Mount Marapi Continues to Erupt

UK Parliament Concerns

ERG chairman Mark Francois cautioned against rushing Parliament into supporting the legislation without a thorough assessment. Moderate Conservative MPs have also expressed concerns, with Stephen Hammond highlighting the Prime Minister's challenging task of balancing economic considerations, the labor market, and immigration control.

Despite the government's efforts to expedite the deportation of migrants to Rwanda, Home Secretary Cleverly admitted that he could not guarantee that any deportations would occur before the next general election.

The government believes that the formal treaty signed with Rwanda, along with anticipated emergency legislation, will address the Supreme Court's concerns and allow deportation flights to commence.

While the UK government is taking steps to reduce migration levels, including net migration, the exact cost of the new deal with Rwanda remains undisclosed. The government has faced pressure from its own MPs to significantly reduce legal migration levels following a rise in net migration to 745,000 in 2022.

Ministers have not provided a specific timeline for the first deportation flight to Rwanda, as the "emergency" legislation is still being debated within the government. The government's five-point plan for immigration includes several measures aimed at achieving a "very significant reduction in net migration" in the coming months, sparking speculation of a possible election in the near future, Yahoo News reported.

Related Article: Indonesia's Marapi Volcanic Eruption Left Scores Dead, Regions Blanketed by Ash

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US Air Force V-22 Osprey aircraft crashed during a training mission, claiming the lives of eight crew members. As the search and recovery efforts continued, the identities of these brave individuals were revealed, shedding light on their dedication and service to their nation.

The crash occurred last Wednesday off Yakushima Island, a location known for its picturesque beauty, as per Voice of America.

Osprey Crash Claims Eight American Heroes

The Osprey, a versatile hybrid aircraft that combines the vertical takeoff and landing equivalent capabilities of a spacecraft in terms of speed and range, was carrying eight American crew members when it went down.

Among the fallen heroes were Maj. Jeffrey T. Hoernemann is a CV-22 instructor pilot from Andover, Minnesota; Maj. Eric V. Spendlove is a residency-trained flight surgeon and medical operations flight commander from St. George, Utah; Maj. Luke A. Unrath, a CV-22 pilot and flight commander from Riverside; Capt. Terrell K. Brayman is a CV-22 pilot and flight commander from Pittsford, New York; Tech. Sgt. Zachary E. Lavoy, a medical operations flight chief from Oviedo, Florida; Staff Sgt. Jake M. Turnage, a flight engineer from Kennesaw, Georgia; Senior Airman Brian K. Johnson, a flight engineer from Reynoldsburg, Ohio; and Staff Sgt. Jacob 'Jake' M. Galliher a native of Pittsfield, Massachusetts.

The recovery operation has been a joint effort between Japanese and US military personnel, with divers from both nations working tirelessly to locate and retrieve the remains of the fallen airmen. Jacob Galliher's remains were the first to be found, leaving behind a grieving family that includes his wife Ivy and two young children.

Galliher's family expressed their sorrow and pride in their statement, emphasizing his selfless dedication to his family, country, and the people he loved. President Joe Biden also conveyed his condolences and respect for the fallen, emphasizing the nation's indebtedness to them, according to Daily Mail.

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Controversy Surrounds Osprey Aircraft in Japan

The use of Osprey aircraft in Japan has been a source of controversy, with critics citing concerns about their safety. However, both the US military and Japanese authorities have defended their safety record. This incident marked the second Osprey crash in three months, following a similar tragedy in northern Australia where three Marines lost their lives. The cause of that crash has yet to be disclosed.

In June 2022, five Marines died in a fiery crash in California, attributed to a mechanical failure related to a clutch. Subsequently, the Marine Corps announced that the problematic equipment had been replaced in February 2023.

The Osprey, valued at $90 million, has a unique tilt-rotor design, allowing it to take off and land vertically like a helicopter and transition to high-speed horizontal flight like an airplane. It is used by the US Marines, US Navy, and Japan Self-Defense Forces.

These tragic incidents underscore the risks associated with military aviation, and the utmost priority remains the recovery of the remaining two crew members' remains and providing support to their families. Japan has temporarily suspended the flights of its own fleet of Ospreys in response to the crash.

The joint search and rescue operations involving multiple military branches alongside Japanese allies reflect the strength of the bond between the US and Japan. Rear Adm. Jeromy Williams, Special Operations Command - Pacific commander, expressed his gratitude for the collaborative efforts, emphasizing their dedication to locating and bringing home the fallen airmen to their families. As the recovery efforts continue, the nation mourns the loss of these courageous servicemen and honors their sacrifice, Fox News reported.

Related Article: Mount Etna's Eruption Forces Catania Airport to Close

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Israel Defense Forces have prepared for their upcoming attack. The military group will build salt water pumps to flood Hamas tunnels in the Gaza Strip used by militants to move during the group's attacks against civilians.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the IDF discussed their plan with US officials in Washington last month.

IDF Builds Salt Water Pumps to Flood Hamas Tunnels

Israel plans to use salt water to drown out the terrorists and neutralize the tunnels. However, according to The Western Journal, the US officials said they did not know how close the Israeli government was to carrying out the plan as Israel has not made a final decision to move ahead.

"Sentiment inside the US was mixed. Some US officials privately expressed concern about the plan, while other officials said the US supports the disabling of the tunnels and said there wasn't necessarily any US opposition to the plan," the Journal said.

The report said that the IDF has identified and mapped out an estimated 800 tunnels that Hamas uses to move weapons and personnel from location to location undetected. However, the IDF believes the number of tunnels could be much higher.

Some of the hostages taken by Hamas were reportedly accompanied around Gaza in the underground network during the October 7 attack against Israel.

The pumps that could be used in the plan if carried out were currently employed to desalinate water for Gaza. According to the Journal, one person shared that the IDF was still trying to assess how the plan might work.

The person said they were unsure how successful the pumping would be since nobody knew the details of the tunnels and the ground around them. The source added that it was impossible to tell if the plan would be effective because they did not understand how seawater would drain in tunnels no one had been in before.

"The IDF is operating to dismantle Hamas's terror capabilities in various ways, using different military and technological tools," Israel said. The Journal reported at least five pumps were set up weeks ago near Gaza's Al-Shati refugee camp.

The pumps could flood Hamas' entire tunnel network within a matter of weeks with the ability to pump thousands of cubic meters per hour.

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Israel-Hamas War

Israel and the Palestinian militant group have been fighting in a war that has killed thousands, which resulted in a devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Hamas militants took over 200 civilians into Gaza and killed more than 1,400 people after the group carried out its October 7 attack, the biggest terrorist attack in the country's history.

Israel's retaliation resulted in more than 10,000 people killed, and more than 2 million Palestinians were trapped, lacking basic supplies and with nowhere to escape Israel's bombs.

After the October 7 attack, aid groups, Arab states, and the United Nations have repeatedly called for a ceasefire to allow for the delivery of food, water, medical supplies, and other necessities.

Related Article: IDF Destroys 500 Gaza Tunnels To Block Hamas' Plans To Use Civilians as 'Human Shields'





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President Vladimir Putin is set to embark on a diplomatic tour, visiting the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, followed by hosting Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in Moscow.

This tour underscores Russia's strategic positioning amid growing international tensions and its role in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, as per Al Jezeera.

Putin's UAE, Saudi Visits Amid ICC Warrant

Putin's visit, primarily centered around bilateral relations and the Israel-Hamas war, comes at a time when prospects for a ceasefire in Gaza are diminishing. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov outlined the agenda for the talks, emphasizing their focus on the geopolitical dynamics in the region.

The Russian president's international travel has been limited and an arrest warrant has been issued by the International Criminal Court in March, accusing him of the unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children.

Putin's global engagement has been seriously damaged by the accusation, resulting in his decision to avoid a summit in Pretoria due to concerns over potential arrests. The upcoming visits to the UAE and Saudi Arabia, which have not signed the ICC's founding treaty, present an opportunity for Putin to engage in international diplomacy without the threat of arrest.

Russia's relationship with Hamas, often viewed as a terrorist group by Western countries, plays a crucial role in its Middle Eastern strategy. Moscow's open communication with Hamas, including frequent delegations, contrasts with the West's more cautious approach.

This has positioned Putin to potentially mediate in the ongoing conflict, especially as efforts by Qatar, a key Western ally, have stalled, according to The Guardian.

Read Also: IDF Destroys 500 Gaza Tunnels To Block Hamas' Plans To Use Civilians as 'Human Shields'

Iran's Gulf Relations and Hamas in Key Talks

The talks with Iranian President Raisi hold of equal importance. Iran's efforts to garner backing from Gulf states for Hamas and implement sanctions against Israel have proven unsuccessful. Moreover, Iran's alleged involvement in the Red Sea attacks and its support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict have heightened tensions with Western nations. These issues are likely to be central in Putin's discussions with Raisi.

Russia's re-entry into global politics through its Middle East diplomacy represents a strategic move. By maintaining ties with both Israel and Hamas, Russia emerges as a potential mediator in the region. Moscow's criticism of the US's solo mediation efforts and accusations of Western double standards further underscore its intent to position itself as a key player in international affairs.

Putin's visit also includes important economic discussions. In Saudi Arabia, he is set to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss trade, politics, and humanitarian aid. The UAE discussions with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan will cover trade, energy, tourism, and education.

This diplomatic initiative by Putin is not just about addressing the immediate issues in the Middle East but also about reasserting Russia's global role. By engaging with key regional players and presenting itself as a mediator, Russia is navigating a complex international landscape, marked by its own contentious actions in Ukraine and strained relations with the West, Associated Press reported.

Related Article: Israel Claims Hamas Spies Work for Years to Plan Oct. 7 Terrorist Attack; IDF Questioned Again for Ignoring Signs

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A high-speed rail connection between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles region is being proposed.

The Biden administration has pledged $3 billion to support the construction of a high-speed rail line connecting Las Vegas and Southern California, as per The Independent.

Brightline's High-Speed Rail Boosted by Federal Grant

This substantial federal grant has been awarded to Brightline, the nation's only private intercity passenger railroad, and will play a crucial role in the creation of a $12 billion high-speed railway.

This extraordinary infusion of federal funding for a private project is poised to revolutionize rail travel in the country. Brightline West, as the project is known, received a significant boost with the grant from the US Department of Transportation, which was officially announced by Nevada's two US senators on Tuesday.

Brightline West has emerged as a leading project in the push for a domestic high-speed rail system, garnering attention from both industry leaders and transportation officials. The venture boasts key assets such as land, federal approvals, and labor agreements, positioning it to potentially break ground and complete construction in a remarkable four-year timeframe.

Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) highlighted the benefits of this high-speed rail connection, stating, "Connecting Las Vegas and Southern California by high-speed rail will create tens of thousands of good-paying union jobs, boost our Southern Nevada tourism economy, and finally help us cut down on I-15 traffic."

Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) echoed these sentiments, describing the project as a "game changer" and emphasizing the vital role of federal aid in its realization.

Brightline, in partnership with the Nevada Department of Transportation, submitted a comprehensive 4,000-page application for a $3.75 billion federal grant under the federal infrastructure law earlier this year. While the awarded amount falls short of the requested sum, it remains one of the largest federal investments in a privately developed transportation project in modern US history, according to The Washington Post.

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Historic Funding For Brightline's High-Speed Rail

Wes Edens, the founder and chairman of Brightline, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in the project by President Biden, Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Senator Rosen, and other supporters. He heralded this moment as historic and anticipates it will serve as a blueprint for future high-speed rail initiatives across the country.

In June, Brightline West received a $25 million federal grant earmarked for the design and construction of two stations in California. The latest federal grant, intended to cover approximately one-third of the project's cost, will be supplemented by private capital and tax-free debt, known as private activity bonds, to finance the remaining expenses. Company officials had previously emphasized the need for this federal funding to initiate construction.

The electrified rail link, spanning 265 miles from Las Vegas to Rancho Cucamonga and connecting to downtown Los Angeles via commuter train, is estimated to cost $12 billion-three times the initial estimate from the mid-2000s.

The concept of a high-speed rail link between Las Vegas and Southern California was first proposed in 2005. Brightline's acquisition of the project in 2018 rekindled hopes for its realization. The company has subsequently secured land for four stations and obtained the right of way in the median of Interstate 15 to facilitate the construction of high-speed tracks.

This high-speed rail line is expected to transport passengers between Las Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga in just 2 hours and 10 minutes, with trains reaching speeds of up to 186 mph. Advocates believe the system will alleviate road congestion, removing approximately 3 million vehicles from the road, generating 35,000 jobs, and increasing tourism between Nevada and California.

While an official construction start date has not been announced, Senator Rosen suggested that electric-powered trains could be operational by the time Los Angeles hosts the Summer Olympics in 2028. With bipartisan support and strong backing from federal lawmakers, this ambitious project holds the promise of transforming transportation between Las Vegas and Southern California while also addressing traffic issues on the I-15 freeway, ABC 7 reported.

Related Article: Capitol Hill: Jim Jordan Says Biden Administration Targets 'Pro-Life Catholics'

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Florida GOP chairman Christian Ziegler's calls for his resignation have emerged. In response, members of his party are making efforts to convene an emergency meeting to address the unfolding scandal.

Republican heavyweights, including US Senator Rick Scott and Governor Ron DeSantis, have called for his resignation to prevent distractions during a crucial election year, as per Daily Beast.

Florida GOP Chairman Faces Hypocrisy Accusations

Ziegler and his wife, Bridget, co-founder of Moms for Liberty, a conservative group, are facing accusations of hypocrisy as they publicly oppose LGBTQ+ rights despite admitting to a sexual relationship with another woman. The allegations have cast a shadow over the political landscape in Florida, with major elections on the horizon.

U.S. Senator Rick Scott, who is seeking re-election, expressed his concern, stating, "The allegations are very disturbing. I don't see how Christian can continue to successfully act as chairman while this cloud hovers over him."

DeSantis, who is eyeing a presidential run, also urged Ziegler to resign, emphasizing that the investigation's impact on the party's mission makes his continued leadership untenable.

Christian Ziegler, however, has refused to step down, insisting that the sexual relationship in question was consensual. The woman involved alleges that Ziegler raped her when she refused to engage in sexual activity without Bridget Ziegler's presence.

The Republican Party of Florida has a moral clause that could potentially lead to Ziegler's removal. Vice Chairman Evan Power has called for an emergency meeting to address the situation, as many members believe waiting until February for a resolution is unacceptable. This meeting, scheduled for December 17 in Orlando, may decide Ziegler's fate, according to Independent.

Read Also: Michigan: Woman Bravely Steals from Walmart During 'Shop With Cop' Event-70 Police Officers Didn't Faze Her

Christian Ziegler's Wife Also Faces Resignation Demands

The scandal has also prompted calls for Bridget Ziegler to resign from her elected position on the Sarasota County School Board. Critics argue that her admission of involvement in a sexual relationship with another woman contradicts her anti-LGBTQ+ stance.

Democrats have seized on the issue, focusing on the perceived hypocrisy rather than Bridget Ziegler's sexual orientation. They insist that the matter centers on the inconsistency between her public positions and private actions.

Moms for Liberty, the group co-founded by Bridget Ziegler, issued a statement in her defense, emphasizing their commitment to parental rights as a core mission. They rejected attacks against her and expressed their dedication to empowering parents for the betterment of the education system.

Despite the serious allegations, no charges have been filed against Christian Ziegler to date. The Sarasota Police investigation remains open, stemming from the accuser's claims that he forcibly entered her apartment and raped her in October.

This controversy has raised concerns among prominent Republicans, including former Florida GOP executive director Mike Grissom, who stressed the importance of the party's mission beyond individual personalities. He called on Ziegler to step aside for the sake of Florida's electoral prospects in 2024.

With the ongoing investigation, the political situation in Florida is filled with uncertainty as the allegations against Christian Ziegler seem over the Republican Party's agenda in an essential election year, NBC News reported.

Related Article: Capitol Hill: Jim Jordan Says Biden Administration Targets 'Pro-Life Catholics'

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Hong Kong: 13k sign-ups for special poll stations

The Registration & Electoral Office announced today that it received 12,976 registrations for voting at Near Boundary Polling Stations (NBPSs) set up for the upcoming District Council Ordinary Election.

The arrangement was made to make it easier for electors living on the Mainland to cast their votes. Registration ended yesterday.

Electors who have registered to vote at NBPSs via an online system can cast their ballots at the relevant polling stations upon receipt of SMS and email notifications confirming their successful registration.

Voters can also check the information of the final polling station assigned to them on the Online Voter Information Enquiry System.

The 2023 District Council Ordinary Election will be held this Sunday. People who have registered to vote at an NBPS but have an itinerary change may call the Registration & Electoral Office at 2891 1001 to make appropriate arrangements.

This story has been published on: 2023-12-06. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Chinese FM, British foreign secretary hold phone talks on bilateral ties

Xinhua) 08:29, December 06, 2023

BEIJING, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday held a phone conversation with David Cameron, British secretary of state for foreign, commonwealth and development affairs, at the latter's request.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that China and Britain, both permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, bear important responsibilities for maintaining international peace and stability.

The steady and sound development of bilateral relations not only serves the fundamental and long-term interests of the two peoples, but also has strategic and global significance for promoting world peace and prosperity, Wang said.

China and Britain offer development opportunities to each other, he noted, expressing hope that the British side will establish a correct understanding of China and grasp the general direction of the development of China-Britain relations.

Wang said China is firmly committed to peaceful development, and maintains continuity and stability of its foreign policy. China advocates multilateralism and opposes unilateral bullying, he said, adding that China supports free trade and opposes protectionism.

China's development is a growing force for world peace and a strengthening factor for the stability of the international community, Wang said. In the face of the ever-changing international situation and emerging global challenges, he stressed, China and Britain should maintain communication and dialogue, strengthen coordination, and deepen cooperation.

For his part, Cameron said that in today's world, no single country can tackle global challenges alone, and the engagement and cooperation between Britain and China serve the interests of both sides. Britain is committed to developing relations with China and is willing to maintain exchanges, he added.

He also said Britain appreciates China's support for multilateralism and expects China to play a greater role in international and regional issues.

The two sides exchanged views on hot issues, including the Ukraine crisis. Wang reiterated China's consistent position on promoting peace talks, and stressed opposition to any act that harms China's legitimate rights and interests and abuses unilateral sanctions.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
On Tuesday, the US announced travel bans on extremist Israeli settlers involved in the recent attack on Palestinians in the West Bank.

The secretary of state, Antony Blinken, announced the decision after warning Israel last week that Biden's administration would be taking action over the attacks.

US Announces Travel Bans on Israeli Settlers

The visa restriction policy will target individuals involved in undermining peace, security, or stability in the West Bank, which includes committing acts of violence or taking other actions that unduly restrict civilians' access to essential services and necessities.

Blinken said they have underscored to the Israeli government the need to do more to hold accountable extremist settlers who have committed violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank. He added that Biden has repeatedly said that those attacks were unacceptable.

The US would continue to seek accountability for settler violence against Palestinians as well as Palestinian attacks against Israelis in the West Bank and Israel, mainly as tensions were extremely high due to the conflict in Gaza.

Blinken said that instability in the West Bank both harms the Israeli and Palestinian people and threatens Israel's national security interest.

Martin Indyk, a former US ambassador to Israel, posted on X, formerly Twitter, "Finally, settler vigilantes will pay a price for their violent efforts to uproot West Bank Palestinians. I hope their Israeli government sponsors will not be allowed to fly either."

However, Aaron David Miller, a former state department analyst, negotiator, and adviser on Middle East issues, doubted the decision would improve the situation. He said the ban was necessary but insufficient.

Miller added that they would not call it virtue signaling, but in some respects, it was similar to the administration's ban in the wake of Khashoggi's murder by the Saudi regime. He said visa restrictions were also imposed in Saudi.

More designations will be made in the coming days after the first travel ban on Tuesday, which will affect dozens of people. Miller added that any Israeli with an existing US visa who was targeted would be notified that their visa was revoked.

Read Also: California: Retailers Refusing To Offer Gender-Neutral Toys for Kids To Face $500 Fine Under Gov. Newsom's New Bill

West Bank Violence

Israel has occupied the West Bank, which Palestinians want as the core of an independent state since the 1967 Middle East war.

The UN reported that daily settler attacks have doubled since Hamas took over the Palestinian territory of Gaza, which killed 1,200 Israelis and took about 240 hostages. Israel retaliated and invaded Gaza, killing more than 16,000 people.

James Zogby, the founder and president of the Arab American Institute in Washington, described the Biden administration's response as cosmetic and not indicative of a serious effort to stem settler violence.

On Tuesday, the Israeli defense minister, Yoav Gallant, condemned the violence by Jewish settlers in the West Bank and said that only the police and the military have the right to use force.

Related Article: UN Warns Gaza Aid Delay Due to 'Apocalyptic' Conditions in War-Torn Region





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The spurned ex-spouses of TJ Holmes and Amy Robach have reportedly found solace in their own unique way - by dating each other.

Insiders have confirmed that Marilee Fiebig, Holmes' former wife, and Andrew Shue, Robach's former husband, have grown close in the aftermath of their ex-partners' scandalous romance over the past year, as per Daily Mail.

TJ Holmes, Amy Robach Romance

The revelation came during the first episode of their joint podcast, Amy & TJ, released on December 5. The former hosts of 'GMA3: What You Need To Know' discussed the events of the past year, reflecting on the consequences of their relationship becoming public. They made their relationship "Instagram official" by announcing the launch of their podcast.

The saga began in December 2022 when ABC removed TJ Holmes and Amy Robach from the air following reports of their romantic involvement. During the podcast, Holmes referred to himself and his co-host as "the folks who lost the jobs we love because we love each other."

Amy Robach acknowledged that it had been a "year of hell" for both of them, recalling how their relationship was first exposed on 30th November 2022. Meanwhile, TJ Holmes clarified that they had already begun divorce proceedings before their relationship became public, dispelling cheating rumors.

Robach added that her ex-husband had moved out of their home three months prior to the release of the pictures of her and Holmes. They revealed that they had planned to make a public statement about their relationship once their divorces were finalized, but those statements were never released.

In December 2022, the Daily Mail published photos of Holmes and Robach together, sparking rumors of a secret relationship. ABC News president Kim Godwin then decided to remove the GMA3 co-anchors from the air, considering their alleged relationship to be "an internal and external disruption." In January, an ABC News spokesperson confirmed their departure from the network, acknowledging their talent and contributions over the years, according to The Independent.

Read Also: Japan Bear Attacks Alarmingly Increase Due to Hibernation Delays

Podcast Uncovers ABC Exit and TJ Holmes Concern

During the podcast episode, Holmes and Robach recollected the day when they received the phone call informing them of their temporary suspension. They realized that this would ultimately lead to their permanent departure from ABC.

Additionally, Robach recalled the concern she felt for Holmes when the news first broke, leading her to rush to his apartment with her parents. Holmes admitted to resorting to excessive drinking and drug use in response to the situation.

Meanwhile, Fiebig, Holmes's ex-wife, further distanced herself from the situation by not following both Holmes and Robach on social media. In a statement from her attorney, she expressed disappointment with Holmes' lack of respect and sensitivity towards her and their daughter.

Although their relationship resulted in professional and personal repercussions, Holmes and Robach maintain that they were not unfaithful to their former partners. They explain that they were in the process of divorce when their relationship became public and had intended to give their children and families time to adjust before making the news known.

The revelation of Holmes and Robach's relationship shook the foundations of their lives and led to their departure from ABC News. As they continue to navigate the aftermath, they express remorse and strive to rebuild their personal lives while seeking therapy for themselves and their children, US Magazine reported.

Related Article: 'Supernatural' Star Mark Sheppard Recovers After 6 Massive Heart Attacks

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The United States filed charges against a Bosnian man for allegedly helping a wanted Russian individual flee Italy last year in a scheme to smuggle American semiconductors to Russia and Ukraine.

The suspect, identified as Vladimir Jovancic, was taken into custody in Croatia and is being accused by American prosecutors of helping Artem Uss flee Italy last year. It was after the latter's arrest and ahead of his extradition to the US.

US Charges Bosnian Man

On the other hand, the United States government charged Uss with violating sanctions and selling sensitive technologies to Russia through intermediaries in non-sanctioned countries. On Monday, an unsealed indictment showed how prosecutors described the scheme to spring Uss from home detention in Milan.

This was after an Italian court approved his extradition and the document notes that Jovancic used bolt cutters to help the Russian individual remove an electronic ankle bracelet. As per Bloomberg, it was used to track him and he was then smuggled out of the country.

Prosecutors also said that the Bosnian man helped Uss, whom the US called a "Kremlin crony," flee through various countries, including Slovenia, Croatia, and Bosnia. They then reached Serbia, where he boarded a plane en route to Russia.

Uss' wife allegedly paid Jovancic roughly $10,800 for his services in bringing her husband back to Russia. She also gave Jovancic a key card to the wanted man's Italian residence to help him escape law enforcement authorities.

The arrest of Jovancic comes as the United States government is seeking to thwart Russia's efforts to evade sanctions amid its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Before the conflict, Moscow built a secret pipeline to ensure the supply of semiconductors to the region.

These strategies are now assisting Russian operators in rebuilding dismantled networks and deceiving publicly-listed US tech companies. According to Yahoo News, American prosecutors added that Uss is the son of Alexander Uss, the governor of Russia's Krasnoyarsk Krai region and a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Read Also: Javier Milei To Meet With Top Biden Adviser, Other Officials Over Economic Policies

Artem Uss' Escape From Italy

Danielle Hass, a spokeswoman for Breon Peace, the US Attorney in Brooklyn, said that 52-year-old Jovancic is expected to be arraigned in federal court in the county at a later date. The case is known as US v. Jovancic, 23-cr-430.

Jovancic is believed to be one of six men who are affiliated with a Serbian organized crime group that Uss recruited. In a letter where US officials sought the suspect's detention, they included a single surveillance still.

The recording showed Jovancic and Uss strolling out of the latter's Milan home and the document described how the pair spent $54,000 to make their getaway. The letter was addressed to US District Judge Rachel P. Kovner.

It added that Jovancic is considered an irreparable flight risk and has significant ties to foreign institutions. Prosecutors said that the government must, therefore, move for a permanent order of detention pending trial.

The letter offered some background on Uss and the underlying criminal indictment surrounding his case. It claims that he knowingly tried to "obstruct and impede an official court proceeding" by hiring Jovancic and five others, said the Daily Mail.

Related Article: US Senators Seek China Travel Restrictions to Prevent Spread of Mysterious Pneumonia

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Russia allegedly rejected an offer given by the United States government for the release of jailed Americans Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich as reports suggest violence against the individuals.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller did not provide the details of the offer made by the Joe Biden administration nor why Moscow decided to reject it. However, the revelation of the happenings was a fresh indication that Washington was moving forward with trying to secure the release of Whelan and Gershkovich.

Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich

In a statement, Miller said that it was a new proposal made in the past few weeks and added that Russia's rejection would not deter them from continuing to do everything to bring the two men back home.

The development comes as the United States government has long claimed that Whelan and Gershkovich are wrongfully detained in Russia. The former is a corporate security executive from Michigan and has been imprisoned in the European country since December 2018.

That was when he was arrested by Russian officials on espionage-related charges that both he and the American government dispute. Moscow later sentenced the individual to 16 years in prison, as per WDTN.

On the other hand, Gershkovich is a Wall Street Journal reporter who was detained in March while he was on a reporting trip to the Russian city of Yekaterinburg. The area is located roughly 2,000 kilometers east of the country's capital, Moscow.

Both Gerskhkovich and his employer, the Journal, deny the allegations. However, Russian authorities have not yet detailed any evidence to support the espionage charges. Last week, a Russian court extended the two men's detention until Jan. 30.

Miller argued that the imprisoned Americans should never have been arrested in the first place. He added that the correct move for Russia now is to release Whelan and Gershkovich immediately. He noted that the American government has made a number of proposals to bring the men home.

Read Also: UN Hears Accounts of Hamas Sexual Violence

Russia Rejects Offer From the US

Secretary of State Antony Blinken in July 2022 revealed that the U.S. had made a substantial proposal to Russia to bring home WNBA star Brittney Griner and Whelan. While the former was ultimately released in December of that year, Whelan was excluded, according to the Washington Times.

The development comes as Whelan is reported to have been attacked on Tuesday by a fellow prisoner at the labor camp where he is serving his 16-year prison sentence. His brother, David Whelan, wrote an email where he said that Paul detailed the incident in a phone call to his parents.

The prisoner said that a fellow inmate blocked part of a production line as he was working at a sewing table. After Whelan supposedly tried to ask the individual to move out of the way, the latter allegedly hit him in the face, breaking his glasses, and tried to hit him a second time.

Whelan was said to have stood back up to block the second strike and other prisoners quickly intervened to prevent the prisoner from continuing his attack on the American national, said CBS News.

Related Article: Vladimir Putin To Make Rare Visit to Saudi Arabia, UAE To Discuss Israel-Hamas War

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Kate Cox, a pregnant Texas woman, asked a judge to grant her abortion access despite Texas's strict ban after her fetus confirmed lethal fetal diagnosis.

Cox has filed a lawsuit against the state seeking an emergency court order, which was believed to be the first of its kind since the state banned virtually all abortions after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade last year.

Cox Asks Judge to Grant Abortion Access

The lawsuit, filed by the Center for Reproductive Rights, asks the court to halt Texas's abortion bans for Cox temporarily. She was currently 20 weeks pregnant, and her fetus had been diagnosed with full trisomy 18, a chromosomal anomaly that leads to miscarriage, stillbirth, or the death of the infant after birth.

"If Kate is not allowed to have an abortion in Texas, she will be forced to continue the pregnancy until she either miscarries or gives birth to a stillborn or to a baby that could live only minutes. Her only other option is to try to flee the state," the group said.

The state prohibits all abortions from the point of fertilization. The state also implements a bounty law that rewards private citizens who sue others who have helped a person get an abortion.

However, the law has exceptions to save the life of the mother, but the law remained vague on what constitutes such a risk, which advocates were trying to force the state to clarify.

The doctors advised Cox that the safest option to protect her health and future fertility was to get an abortion. But as long as there was fetal cardiac activity, she would not be able to have abortion access in Texas.

The lawsuit stated that if the heartbeat stopped, doctors could offer her a labor induction. However, prior to cesarean sections from her earlier pregnancies, induction carries a serious risk of uterine rupture.

Abortion rights advocates and women with dangerous and nonviable pregnancies requested the state to clarify the medical exemptions so doctors could perform abortions without fear of losing their licenses or being prosecuted.

A district court judge previously ruled that the laws should not apply in cases where the mother's health was at risk, or the fetus would not survive after birth. The Texas Office of the Attorney General appealed that ruling, putting it on hold, and the state Supreme Court would decide in the coming weeks.

However, the lawsuit noted that Cox immediately needed an abortion. Cox's attorneys were now seeking a narrow injunction to allow the abortion and protect her doctor from prosecution and her husband from facing civil penalties under the state's bounty law.

Cox said she was trying to do what was best for her baby and herself, but the state was making them both suffer.

Read Also: Macy's Stabbing: Philadelphia Man Fatally Stabs Security Guard, Injures Another During Retail Theft

Supreme Court Overturns Roe v. Wade's Right to Abortion

After nearly half a century, the US Supreme Court officially declared that the constitutional right to abortion no longer exists.

The decision in early May has pushed abortion rights to be rolled back in nearly half of the states immediately, with more restrictions likely to follow. The court's decision has made millions of American women lose a fundamental constitutional protection.

Several states, such as Mississippi, North Carolina, and Wisconsin, still have decades-old abortion bans.

Related Article: 'Abortion Drone' Will Fly Pregnancy-Termination Pills From Germany To Poland





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Jennifer Chang has been named the senior director of digital experimentation and innovation for the Houston Chronicle, said Kelly Ann Scott, editor in chief of the Houston Chronicle. In her role, Chang will help the news team identify new audience initiatives and lead digital efforts to connect with new readers, listeners and viewers in Houston and beyond. This is the first of its kind role for the Houston Chronicle. Chang will report to Scott in her new role.

Jennifer brings a deep knowledge and love of Houston, a passion for connecting our journalism with new people and a commitment to rigor and experimentation thats necessary in a modern, digital media organization, Scott said. This is the right background to continue to move us forward.



Chang will work with a small, nimble team across the newsroom and company to identify coverage opportunities and the development of strategies to create relationships with new audiences. Shell first begin working with the visuals team to create a digital strategy and video strategy. In the year ahead, shell work across all departments to identify similar opportunities.



Chang most recently was a managing editor at the Houston Chronicle, assisting the executive editor with newsroom operations and long-term content strategy. Prior to the managing editor role, she served as the Chronicle's director of audience, where she spearheaded the newsroom's push into digital subscriptions, culminating in a digital-majority subscriber audience in late 2021.



Chang previously ran editorial growth initiatives as the head of audience and platforms at Thrive Global, Arianna Huffingtons startup. Before that, she was the growth editor at Quartz, where she oversaw audience growth on platforms and videos, and helped launch new verticals.



She is an active member of the Asian American Journalists Association, a new mom of two and a former contestant on Jeopardy! She was born and raised in Houston, where she grew up reading the Chronicle.
Geneva Karr is from Brownsville and will compete on 'RuPaul's Drag Race' Season 16. MTV

Texas has another queen ready to work, or werk, the runway.

Geneva Karr, a 30-year-old performer from Brownsville, is among the 14 queens set to appear on "RuPaul's Drag Race" Season 16. They were revealed Wednesday morning across social media.

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Karr, who describes her drag as "very dramatic," is the first Mexico-born queen to appear on the show's original U.S. iteration. According to the show's promo, Karr "witnessed her parents' struggles as they worked tirelessly to get her family safely to the United States in search of a better life."

She's originally from Tamaulipas and is bilingual, though Spanish is her first language. In Brownsville and throughout Texas, Karr is known as "La Diva Mas Latina." She's a pageant girl who promises she will surprise the gworls with her ability to adapt. And crack a joke.

"When I came to the U.S. people told me that I came to steal their jobs, and why not steal the crown while I'm at it?" she says.

Last season, Houston queen Mistress Isabelle Brooks made it all the way to the finale. She was the first local queen to appear on the show.

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Sonia Garcia is a trending food reporter for the Houston Chronicle. She can be reached at sonia.garcia@houstonchronicle.com.

A Rio Grande Valley native, she previously was an editor and writer for the Austin digital news startup Austonia after graduating from Texas State University. She enjoys trying new restaurants in Houston, where she lives with her 14-year-old Chihuahua.
A man who in 2019 forced his way into a Sharpstown womans home and killed her by stabbing her more than a dozen times was sentenced Friday to two life sentences in connection with her death.

Marco Cobos was 19 years old when he killed 75-year-old Etta Nugent on May 19, 2019, at her home on Neff Street.

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Cobos is a Mexican national who came to Houston after stealing a Ford F-150 in Phoenix and driving to Texas, according to prosecutors. His original goal was to meet a person he had met online, but that didnt happen, and he ended up sleeping in the truck, which he parked in Nugents neighborhood, prosecutors said.

Marco Cobos, 19, was arrested Monday for capital murder in the death of a 75-year-old woman, who neighbors identified as Etta Nugent. Nicole Hensley/Nicole Hensley/Staff

On the day of Nugents death, Cobos knocked on Nugents door and asked for water and a place to charge his phone, according to prosecutors. She tried to send him to another neighbor, but Cobos came back minutes later and forced his way inside her home.

Police later said that Cobos stabbed Nugent at least 13 times over the next hour. He used knives from her kitchen to stab her, then used her shower and washing machine, before stealing her car and checking into a motel, prosecutors said.

Nugent had three children and six grandchildren and was the longtime secretary at Holy Ghost Catholic Church. She was living alone after her husband had moved to a medical facility to receive health care.

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Etta Nugent, 75, was found slain in her southwest Houston home on May 20, 2019. Family photo/Courtesy Image

Nugents son found her body.

Cobos was arrested when he returned to the house driving Nugents Honda Accord, according to prosecutors. Neighbors helped identify Cobos as the man who was sleeping in the truck that was parked near Nugents home, police said. Cobos confessed to police during an interview.

Marco Cobos, 19, allegedly confessed to stabbing an elderly woman multiple times inside her Houston home over the course of 40 minutes to an hour, prosecutors said. HPD

He was scheduled to go to trial on Friday, but instead pleaded guilty to murder and aggravated robbery in exchange for the life sentences, according to the Harris County District Attorneys Office. He will spend at least 60 years in prison before he is eligible for parole, according to the district attorneys office.

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Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles listens to speakers during the public comment section of the Board of Trustees monthly agenda review meeting on Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023 at in Houston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer The Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles goes over the principal evaluation presentation to the Board of Trustees during the monthly agenda review meeting on Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023 at in Houston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

About 40% of the Houston ISD's 274 schools would have received D and F grades under the Texas Education Agencys planned update to the school rating system, District Superintendent Mike Miles announced Tuesday.

After a state judge in October blocked education officials from moving forward with their new rating system, the Texas Education Agency provided HISD with raw academic data and a breakdown of the methodology they would have used to grade schools on an A-F scale. Based on last years performance, Miles said 111 HISD schools would have received D or F ratings, more than double an estimate HISD provided in August.

Its not a surprise about where we are, so we have a lot of work to do, Miles said. We have a lot of schools that are struggling.

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Out of the 111 schools, 52 would have received F ratings and 59 would have received D ratings, Miles said. Over half of those schools are among the 85 in or aligned with Miles' New Education System, which Miles said was evidence that those schools were in need of the wholesale systemic reform he said he was bringing.

It was not immediately clear what would happen to the 45 non-NES schools that would have failed the ratings, but Miles said he suspects some will become NES schools. Chief Academic Officer Kristen Hole said the district would announce plans for the next batch of NES schools by February, before the school choice process closes.

Miles said he expects to release the raw performance data in January. The district did not calculate what the school ratings would have been based on the TEAs previous methodology, which found only 10 failing schools across HISD in 2022.

Miles, along with school leaders across the state, have long expected school ratings to plummet with the introduction of the new standards, which would significantly raise the bar for schools to achieve top scores in college and career readiness, among other changes. The TEA walked back its plan to release school ratings in September after noticing that growth numbers were returning to pre-pandemic levels, after a spike in 2022 following a return to the classroom from the COVID-19 pandemic. Those numbers were expected to significantly drop ratings at schools across the state.

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Even as the TEA delayed the release of the appraisals, 100 school districts filed suit, claiming the agency was illegally shifting the goalposts and laying the groundwork for future state sanctions, such as the takeover that led to the ouster of former Superintendent Millard House II and HISDs elected board of trustees.

In October, a state judge issued a temporary injunction against the TEA, finding that the school districts had made a sufficient showing that the TEA shouldnt be allowed to implement the formula without the advance notice required by law  and that doing so would cause irreparable harm.

A trial in that lawsuit is set for February.

Asked about the criticism of the updated evaluations, Miles said the would-be ratings simply confirmed what standardized tests and other assessments have long reflected.

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Our proficiency is low, and the (achievement) gap hasnt changed in 25 years, Miles said. Its a confirmation, so we dont have to spend a lot of time arguing about each detail of the accountability system. What we do need to focus on is what does this say about our students' ability to read, do math and science at grade level.
Chinese FM meets with Mexican counterpart

Xinhua) 09:26, December 06, 2023

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 5, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

BEIJING, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena on Tuesday in Beijing.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that the recent meeting between the two heads of state in San Francisco, the United States, has provided important strategic guidance for the development of bilateral relations and drawn a blueprint for bilateral cooperation.

China is willing to view and develop relations with Mexico from a strategic and long-term perspective, Wang said, adding that China stands ready to work with Mexico to uphold mutual respect and equal treatment, and bring bilateral relations to a new level.

Barcena said that Mexico attaches great importance to relations with China, and is willing to work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state to promote the greater development of bilateral ties.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 5, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
A real estate for sale sign is shown at a home Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023, in Spring. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer

Realtor.com released forecasts this week for the 100 largest housing markets in the U.S. for 2024, with Houston ranking 88th. But that isn't necessarily a bad thing.

Hannah Jones, senior economic research analyst for Realtor.com, said the projections for Houston, along with other Texas metro areas, indicate a forthcoming correction to the market after the pandemic resulted in high prices and high demand.

HOT MARKET: Houston rises on list of top real estate markets to watch in 2024

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"We expect that Houston and these Texas markets are going to start getting back on track with what was normal before the pandemic," said Jones, a native Texan who was born in Bellaire and currently lives in Austin. "Living in Texas, it was impossible not to see the impact of that pandemic-era boom. Even though these markets will continue to be more expensive than they were pre-pandemic, I think that seeing prices fall a little bit, it's a good thing for buyers."

Houston wasn't the only Texas city to be in the bottom quadrant of the rankings. The four big Texas metro areas  Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin and San Antonio  were ranked among the bottom 13 markets. Houston was the highest-ranked of those, but it couldn't come close to touching El Paso which ranked in the top 20 nationally.

Toldeo, Ohio, ranked No. 1 on the list followed by Oxnard, Calif., and Rochester, N.Y. The first non-California, Midwest or Northeast market on the list was El Paso at No. 14.

But while other Texas cities experienced pandemic booms in housing markets, they're now closing in on last place on the list for 2024. Nashville, Tenn., is ranked 92nd. Denver is ranked 95th. Charlotte, N.C., is ranked 97th.

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"All of these markets were really stretched, almost to their breaking point where we saw inventory levels get very low and home prices grow pretty rapidly," Jones said of the Texas group. "We've already seen this correction start in 2023, where prices started to soften and sales have fallen off in these markets. We expect that to continue into 2024 as these markets start to make their way back to a price level and a trajectory that can actually keep some buyers in the market and make these markets a little bit more affordable."

CONDOS RISING: Developer to breathe new life into abandoned condo project in the Heights

Populating the top of the list were two types of markets: California and smaller Midwest and Northeast areas.

For the Midwest and Northeast cities, Jones said they rank highly because they have remained affordable. California is experiencing the opposite of what's happening in Houston, Denver and Charlotte That market is correcting back up to where it was prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

If viewing the list through prices and demand, Jones said it would be correct to assume that the higher the ranking, the more of a seller's market it is, and the lower the ranking, the more of a buyer's market.

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For Houston, those prices won't get as low as they were before the pandemic, but Jones expects them to normalize.

"It's not going to be a one-year recovery," said said. "It's going to be more gradual. Prices are going to start to come back more into balance."
Reah Ysa holds her water bill at her home on Thursday, April 27, 2023 in Houston. She said she has overpaid around $800 for water since she and her husband moved into their three-bedroom townhouse near Montrose a year ago. Karen Warren/Staff photographer

Niya Valentines water bill used to be reliable, she told Houston City Council last month. A $40 payment and then shed go on with her life. Until one month she was slapped with a $9,700 bill out of nowhere: the result, shed later learn, of a leak in a spare bathroom. Even though shed signed up for the citys Consumption Awareness Program, which is supposed to text or email customers about excessive water use that could signal a leak, she says she never got an alert.

No leak alert, no email, no information, but when they want that money, they can find you, Valentine told council members.

Valentines water bill woe is hardly uncommon. Tens of thousands of Houston households have aging water meters that spit out erroneous usage data leading to exorbitant water bills. Relief has been hard to come by, exacerbated by a painstakingly slow city initiative to replace the broken water meters and a byzantine bill dispute and appeals process that leaves customers pulling their hair out. To top it off, the city approved its biggest water and wastewater rate hike in decades.

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PAUSE ANNUAL WATER RATE HIKES: Here are 7 things Whitmire has promised to do

With less than a month left in his final term, Mayor Sylvester Turner has finally decided to address the problem. Turner announced Monday a nine-point plan to fix the water billing issue, proposing new ordinances that the City Council will consider on Wednesday. Included are ordinances that would remove limits on the number of water bill adjustments customers can request per year for leaks; a 100 percent adjustment for fixing water leaks within 30 days; and raising the maximum dollar amount a customer can seek to adjust unusually large bills from $4,000 to $10,000.

We urge the City Council to pass this package of ordinances so that residents can begin clawing back money they shouldnt have been paying for water usage in the first place.

The question many of us are now asking ourselves is what took so long?

As we wrote in May, Houstonians have been raising hell about the water billing issue for years, yet the citys response has been frustratingly slow. The Chronicles Yilun Cheng reported in August that Houston Water had been fielding roughly 43,000 monthly calls from residents about water bills. A Public Works spokesperson, though, pointed to antiquated city ordinances that limited their ability to help, urging residents to call their City Council member to fix it.

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If only it were that simple. Up until about a month ago it was, in fact, the mayor who had near exclusive control over the City Councils agenda. If Turner wanted to, he couldve put these new ordinances on the table at any time. For his part, Turner claims the city had been working on his plan for months, making sure every bond covenant and legal base was covered before they announced it. We believe the mayor had no choice but to hurry up and act after Houston voters approved a charter amendment enabling three or more City Council members to place an item on the agenda by written request.

Council members Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, Mary Nan Huffman and Amy Peck swiftly took advantage, proposing an ordinance last month that would bar Public Works from correcting water bills more than three months old unless the adjustment is in the customers favor. Their proposal arose from numerous complaints that Public Works was sending surprise corrected bills to customers from months prior that were still much higher than what they typically pay. The council members flexed their enhanced power and Turner got off of the sidelines. Hours after the council members announced their proposal, Turner said he would be releasing his own plan. When Turner unveiled that plan on Monday, it included the ordinance proposed by Evans-Shabazz, Huffman and Peck.

This back and forth demonstrates why this editorial board supported the charter amendment in the first place. It allows the City Council to function more as a meaningful participant in city government rather than as the mayors peons. When the city is facing an urgent crisis, the City Council now has the ability to prod the mayor to take action.

Turners proposal is a good start, but it will be on the next mayor to do the hard work of ensuring that broken water meters are replaced. In the meantime, we hope these new ordinances will lead to fewer stunningly high water bills and less red tape to cut through to fix them.
TOKYO, Dec 06 ( News On Japan ) - A man known as the "King of Toyoko" in Kabukicho, the entertainment district of Tokyo, has been arrested on suspicion of raping a junior high school girl he met in Osaka.

Yasuhiro Mizuno (26), an unemployed man from Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, was arrested in early November on suspicion of non-consensual sexual intercourse with a female junior high school student at a commercial building in Osaka Prefecture.

According to police, Mizuno approached a female junior high school student in a place called "Guri-shita" under the Glico sign in Dotonbori and lured her into a multi-tenant building.

In response to the police investigation, he partially denied the charges, saying, "I don't want to answer whether I knew the age of the other person right now."

Mizuno was arrested and indicted on charges that he also acted against another female high school student who was a friend of the female junior high school student.

The suspect Mizuno used the name "Takuni Amemiya" in an area called "Toyoko" in Kabukicho, Tokyo, where young girls gather, and is known as the "King of Toyoko" due to his large following on social media.
Weather Alert

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 3 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO 9 PM CST FRIDAY... ...WIND CHILL ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO NOON CST FRIDAY... ...WIND CHILL WARNING NOW IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM FRIDAY TO NOON CST TUESDAY... * WHAT...For the Winter Storm Warning, heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 5 and 8 inches. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph. For the Wind Chill Advisory, very cold wind chills expected. Wind chills as low as 25 below zero. For the Wind Chill Warning, dangerously cold wind chills expected. Wind chills as low as 50 below zero. Coldest wind chills are expected Saturday night into Sunday morning. * WHERE...Portions of east central, northeast, and southeast Nebraska. * WHEN...For the Winter Storm Warning, from 3 PM this afternoon to 9 PM CST Friday. For the Wind Chill Advisory, from midnight tonight to noon CST Friday. For the Wind Chill Warning, from 9 PM Friday to noon CST Tuesday. * IMPACTS...Travel will be hazardous. Areas of blowing snow will reduce visibilities, even after snow has stopped falling. The hazardous conditions will impact the Thursday evening and Friday commutes. The dangerously cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Avoid outside activities if possible. When outside, make sure you wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1. &&
Ms. Mary Lawlor, UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders, has called on Algerian authorities to release all human rights militants imprisoned for the exercise of their freedom of expression, opinion and association.

In her preliminary findings disclosed this week following her ten-day visit to the country, the UN official belied the statements made by various government figures that Algeria is a country ruled by law, and that everyone is treated equally before that law, saying it is clear that human rights defenders and their families are suffering in this country.

Furthermore, time and again I heard about the lack of transparency in relation to suppressive actions taken against human rights defenders, where little information was provided about who gave an order against them, on what authority and for what reason, she added, noting that several people complained about a political police force existing in the shadows and not accountable to any transparent oversight.

Some human rights defenders I intended to meet, refused or cancelled at the last minute, for fear of reprisals, she said, affirming that a number of human rights defenders, members of civil society organizations and victims of human rights violations were prevented from reaching her.

They were either stopped at checkpoints, or detained in a police station for over ten hours, said the UN human rights expert, stressing that those prevented from meeting her were under routine surveillance and regularly stopped when attempting to attend meetings, events or on other significant occasions.

Ms. Lawlor said that the majority of human rights defenders she met complained about the Algerian authorities constant monitoring, harassment, and disruption of their peaceful activities.

The UN special rapporteur called on the Algerian regime to stop intimidating and targeting human rights defenders for their work in line with UN Human Rights principles.

She denounced the restrictions imposed on freedom of expression saying they violate international human rights law. Ms. Mary Lawlor urged the Algerian authorities to refrain from limiting human rights defenders freedom of movement, including through the use of routine surveillance and interference with their activities.

Ms. Lawlor called for the abolishment of the use of ISDNs to limit the travel of human rights defenders abroad, decrying the excessive use by the authorities of the terrorism law to build bogus cases against human rights militants to toss them in prison.
Egypts leading developer Palm Hills has entered into an agreement with Marriott International to build a luxury hotel under the name of Ritz-Carlton Palm Hills in West Cairo with investments of $130 million, the office of Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouli has announced.

The agreement was signed Monday December 4 by Mr. Yasin Mansour, Chairman of the Board and Executive Group of Palm Hills, and Mr. Shadi Hassan, Vice-President of Marriott Group North Africa and the Middle East.

The future hotel to be located near the pyramids and the large Egyptian museum, will have 150 rooms and 50 hotel apartments. The project will generate 45 thousand job opportunities during the construction. It will employ 600 permanent people after completion. The tourism structure is expected to be inaugurated in 2027.

The Ritz-Carlton, is a US brand of luxury hotel chain operated by Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. The company has 108 luxury hotels and resorts in 30 countries and territories with 29,158 rooms. Prime Minister Madbouli who witnessed the signing also welcomed the project.

The Egyptian State attaches great importance to investing in the tourism sector, especially in the Western Cairo area which is close to the Pyramids area and the Great Egyptian Museum that we are preparing to open, and this area is also seeing unprecedented development in infrastructure including roads. The hubs are in addition to the creation of the nearby Sphinx International Airport, which has seen expansion and development and has been put into operation, he assured.
Two joint units of Tunisias counter-terrorism forces and the National Guard rounded up Tuesday December 5 in two separate operations two terrorists condemned to 10 years in prison each in absentia for belonging to terror groups, local media Tunisie Numerique reports.

A joint patrol of the National Guard and counter-terrorism forces in the city of Kebili, capital of Kebili governorate, succeeded in arresting an individual, on the run and condemned in the past for pertaining to a terror group.

In a separate operation, the forces in the city of Bizerte, capital of Bizerte governorate, also arrested another individual who according to a check is wanted by the judiciary. The individual whose identity has not been revealed, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in absentia for belonging to a terror group too.

Tunisia since 2015 has been under a State of emergency in the wake of a string of terror attacks in 2015 that claimed the lives of dozens of people, mainly foreign tourists.

In November 2023 security forces rounded up, in two separate operations, four terrorists condemned in absentia for pertaining to terror groups. A unit of intelligence services from the National Guard in Monouba and Terouba, two towns near capital Tunis, arrested two men in the first operation. The men had been condemned to one to seven years in prison for belonging to a terror group.

Another unit of the National Guard during a patrol in the city of Sfax and nearby town of Mahres arrested two individuals wanted for terrorism. The two men had been condemned in absentia to four years in prison for belonging to a terror group.
Adamou Diallo, aka Oussama Diallo, the military commander of Islamic State  Sahel Province (IS-GS) has been killed in a clash with Malian armed forces in Menaka, North of the West African country, Moussa AG Acharatoumane, member of the transitional power and Secretary of the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) announced on X, former Twitter.

The gun confrontation occurred Sunday December 3 amid the Malian armys efforts to stamp its presence in the northern region after conquering back the key city of Kidal.

A Nigerien national, Diallo had been credited with several terrors attacks both in Mali and Niger, including the Tongo Tongo ambush in Niger on October 4, 2017, in which four American and five Nigerien soldiers were killed, as well as the deadly attack on the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) at Indelimanane.

Another source, also a member of MNLA, who asked not be named because not allowed to speak on the matter, confirmed the killing of Diallo.

He was killed yesterday on the outskirts of Menaka, in a region where he and his men have committed the worst atrocities since the start of the security crisis in the Sahel, the source added.

Malia has been grappling since 2013 with terrorism after the country slid into an internal conflict with the central administration losing most part of territory to rebels. Last month the armed forces seized Kidal, the capital of the countrys eighth region from Touareg rebels who had been controlling the region for 10 years.
The secretary of state is reminding candidates for political office that they cannot use the state seal for campaign purposes.

The use of the seal is limited to state government and educational use, Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen said in a press release Tuesday.

Written permission is required to use the state seal and each request is evaluated to determine if it meets the guidelines.

Using the state seal is like having a stamp of state endorsement, which is a wholly inaccurate message if being conveyed by political campaigns or product marketing, Evnen said. As a recognized icon and honored symbol of the state, the Great Seal should be treated with integrity and respect.

It is a common misconception that the state seal is available for public use, he said. There is only one official and correct image. Images that are available on the internet are frequently inaccurate.

Candidate filing begins Jan. 5, 2024. Individuals looking to run for office in Nebraska can find more information on filing deadlines and resources on the secretary of states website here.

As a reminder to candidates and voters, Nebraskas new voter ID law will take effect for the May 14, 2024, statewide primary and will be in effect for every election in Nebraska after that. There is preliminary voter ID educational material on our website. There will be more educational resources and events published and advertised in 2024.
Photo: Eva Marie Uzcategui/Getty Images

Robert Kennedy Jr. has positioned himself as a populist outsider in the 2024 presidential race, but its hard to forget that he comes from American royalty and has hobnobbed with many of the most famous and notorious people in the world. Now he faces a problem suspiciously common for megarich people (and one other presidential candidate): explaining why he flew on Jeffrey Epsteins plane.

In an appearance on Fox News on Tuesday, host Jesse Watters asked Kennedy, You werent ever on Jeffrey Epsteins plane, were you? As a matter of fact:

RFK JR: I was on Jeffrey Epstein's jet two times.



pic.twitter.com/rhGn7U55ea  Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) December 6, 2023

I was on it in 1993, Kennedy said. And I went to Florida with my wife and two children to visit my mom over Easter. My wife had some sort of relationship with Ghislaine Maxwell. He said the second trip was also with his wife at the time, Mary Richardson, and his four children to go fossil-hunting in South Dakota. You know, standard family-trip fare.

Kennedy noted that this was before any of the alleged sex crimes were public knowledge, back when Epstein was just a mysterious financier without a college degree who was known for being surrounded by extremely young women all the time. Watters did not ask a follow-up about Richardsons relationship with Maxwell, Epsteins convicted madam, even though Maxwell knew several members of the Kennedy family.

Ive been very open about this from the beginning, Kennedy said. The candidate also noted that he was never on Epsteins jet without his family and opined that all information surrounding Epsteins life and death should be made public. Yet viewers at home saw his face over a rather brutal chyron  RFK JR: I WAS ONLY ON EPSTEINS PLANE TWICE.

It makes sense that a presidential candidate would need to be transparent about his connection to one of the most notorious men of our lifetimes. (Or not: Donald Trump has not exactly been forthcoming about his many, many interactions with his old Palm Beach friend.) Unfortunately for Kennedy Jr., his statement has a few flaws in it. Kennedy claimed that he was on a flight to Palm Beach, Florida, for Easter in 1993. But Epsteins flight logs from the early 90s show that RFK Jr. and family members flew with Epstein and Maxwell from Teterboro airport to Florida on February 17 and that they flew back on February 27  almost two months before the Easter holiday that year. There is also no record in any publicly available Epstein flight logs of the Kennedy familys fossil-collecting trip to South Dakota.

It is not a crime for a politician to get a date wrong 30 years ago in a life full of private air travel and famous people. But if Kennedy  who also makes an appearance in Epsteins infamous little black book  is encouraging full transparency around this issue, he may want to get his own details ironed out between now and next November.

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Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth speaks during a join press conference between the Harris County Clerk's Office and Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector's Office at NRG Arena, Friday, Sept. 1, 2023, in Houston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer

With the March primaries around the corner, Harris County still does not have a confirmed location to run its election operations. Two of the county's regular sites  NRG Arena and George R. Brown Convention Center  are booked already, leaving county officials scrambling to find a large enough space that is available.

MORE ON MARCH: Candidate filing underway through Dec. 11 for March 2024 primaries

Texas primaries will be held on March 5, but the county needs a location before early voting begins Feb. 20. That's when NRG will be focused on a different kind of horse race. It serves as the primary horse competition facility for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. George R. Brown Convention Center will host the Texas Association of School Business Officials, followed by Commodity Classic, the annual convention and trade show of the wheat, corn, soybeans and sorghum industries.

After years of turnover of Harris County election officials, County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth recently took over running elections on Sept. 1, following a new state law abolishing Harris County's appointed elections administrator went into effect.

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Weeks later, Hudspeth still hasn't gotten a moment to catch her breath. She inherited the job just in time to sprint through the Nov. 7 election and Dec. 9 runoff. In January, there likely will be a special election to fill a seat vacated by the winning Houston mayoral runoff candidate, either state Sen. John Whitmire or U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, Hudspeth said.

On Tuesday, Hudspeth told Harris County Commissioners Court that while the county is still looking for a location to run the March primaries, the Office of County Administration, Harris County Engineering Department and Harris County Attorney's Office are all working with Hudspeth to find a solution.

"The one thing that's keeping me up most at night is where the heck are we going to go for the March primaries," Huspeth said.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo asked Hudspeth when the county needs the location confirmed.

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Hudspeth answered, "Now."

Jan. 1 is the realistic deadline for securing a site, Hudspeth added.

Hudspeth offered some possible solutions, including a former Sam's Club store and Northwest Mall, an abandoned shopping mall.

At Tuesday's meeting, First Assistant County Attorney Jay Aiyer said officials have the issue under control.

"I know the engineering folks have been looking for a suitable location, and we've already started the process to expedite any real estate contract that would be needed to make sure the clerk's in by Jan. 1 at the latest," Aiyer said.

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While Harris County will manage and administer the elections in March, the two local political parties also are responsible for running their primaries.

Harris County Republican Party Chair Cindy Siegel said in a statement Tuesday that a location should already be decided at this point.

"Were very concerned," Siegel said. "The rodeo is an event that happens the same time of year, every year, and we feel there should have been more foresight. Harris County is giant, and were sure a suitable location can be found, but massive decisions like this must be planned out more in advance in the future."
As the jury trial for Lamar Vickerstaff Jr. approaches, revisit the details Opelika police have shared so far regarding the death of his young daughter.

Amore Wiggins went unidentified for over 10 years after her skeletal remains were found in the woods behind the Brookhaven Trailer Park on Hurst Street in January 2012. Investigators believed she was malnourished and abused before dying at the age of 4 or 5.

Vickerstaff has been arrested and charged with murdering his child. Ruth Vickerstaff, the victim's stepmother and murder suspect's wife, has been charged with failure to report a missing child.

Here's a timeline with more details from the case:

OPD found remains behind a mobile home

2009: Lamar Vickerstaff Jr. obtained custody of Wiggins when she was 3 years old. Sherry Wiggins lost visitation rights and lost contact with her daughter, but continued to pay child support to Vickerstaff for 13 years.

Lamar Vickerstaff Jr. obtained custody of Wiggins when she was 3 years old. Sherry Wiggins lost visitation rights and lost contact with her daughter, but continued to pay child support to Vickerstaff for 13 years. Jan. 28, 2012: Opelika detectives discovered skeletal remains in the woods behind Brookhaven Trailer Park off Hurst Street. Detectives believe the victim was killed in 2010 or 2011.

Opelika detectives discovered skeletal remains in the woods behind Brookhaven Trailer Park off Hurst Street. Detectives believe the victim was killed in 2010 or 2011. February 2012: FBI agents joined the investigation. The remains, a pink shirt and a small bundle of curly hair were recovered from the area. It was sent to an FBI laboratory in Quantico, Va., for analysis. Findings from the investigation indicated that the remains belonged to a young Black girl between the age of 4 and 7. Investigators believe she was malnourished and physically abused. The autopsy revealed the child had 15 individual fractures to her skull, arms, legs, shoulders and ribs. Detectives also believe she was blind in her left eye because of a fracture to her eye socket. Police referred to the victim as the Opelika Baby Jane Doe as detectives worked to discover her identify and uncover the cause of her death.

FBI agents joined the investigation. The remains, a pink shirt and a small bundle of curly hair were recovered from the area. It was sent to an FBI laboratory in Quantico, Va., for analysis. Findings from the investigation indicated that the remains belonged to a young Black girl between the age of 4 and 7. Investigators believe she was malnourished and physically abused. The autopsy revealed the child had 15 individual fractures to her skull, arms, legs, shoulders and ribs. Detectives also believe she was blind in her left eye because of a fracture to her eye socket. Police referred to the victim as the Opelika Baby Jane Doe as detectives worked to discover her identify and uncover the cause of her death. August 2016: The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children released new composite images of the victim. New technology allowed NCMEC to create a new facial reconstruction and complete new forensic testing. The photo showed a young girl with medium-length black hair that was styled in small, tight curls. She was wearing the shirt that was recovered with her remains, a long-sleeve pink shirt with heart buttons and ruffles on the neckline.

Police released composite images hoping someone could ID the victim

September 2016: Opelika police released 2011 images of a young girl at Greater Peace Church's vacation Bible school. They asked for the public's help with identifying her, because they suspected she was the homicide victim.

Opelika police released 2011 images of a young girl at Greater Peace Church's vacation Bible school. They asked for the public's help with identifying her, because they suspected she was the homicide victim. February 2017: Isotope test from the University of South Florida Institute of Forensic Anthropology and Applied Science revealed that Opelika Jane Doe was from the southeastern portion of the U.S.

Isotope test from the University of South Florida Institute of Forensic Anthropology and Applied Science revealed that Opelika Jane Doe was from the southeastern portion of the U.S. October 2021: The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children released new 3D images of the victim after an assessment from a forensic anthropologist with the Smithsonian.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children released new 3D images of the victim after an assessment from a forensic anthropologist with the Smithsonian. 2021: Othram Inc., an advanced forensic DNA company in Woodlands, Texas, was given her DNA and the company started working to build a genealogical family tree.

Othram Inc., an advanced forensic DNA company in Woodlands, Texas, was given her DNA and the company started working to build a genealogical family tree. Jan. 28, 2022: The OPD, Opelika city officials and community members held a memorial marking the 10 year anniversary of the discovery of Opelika Jane Doe. Detectives didnt release new information but announced that they thought they were very close to finding out who she was.

The OPD, Opelika city officials and community members held a memorial marking the 10 year anniversary of the discovery of Opelika Jane Doe. Detectives didnt release new information but announced that they thought they were very close to finding out who she was. October 2022: The OPD received new information that victim might have relatives in Virginia or North Carolina. With the help of genealogist Barbara Rae-Venter, Othram finished building a genealogical family tree and found that Lamar Vickerstaff Jr. and Sherry Wiggins were a 100% match for the victims parents.

The OPD received new information that victim might have relatives in Virginia or North Carolina. With the help of genealogist Barbara Rae-Venter, Othram finished building a genealogical family tree and found that Lamar Vickerstaff Jr. and Sherry Wiggins were a 100% match for the victims parents. December 2022: Opelika detectives traveled to Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville, Florida, to meet with the Vickerstaffs. Police said the married couple did not provide any information. Opelika detectives also traveled to Baltimore, Maryland, to meet with Sherry Wiggins. She helped authorities confirm that the victim found behind the mobile home park was her biological daughter.

Officials ID'd the victim and charged her father with murder

Jan. 17, 2023: The OPD revealed the identity of Amore Wiggins to the public on Jan. 17, 2023. They also announced that the Vickerstaffs were taken into custody in Jacksonville and charged in connection with the case.

The OPD revealed the identity of Amore Wiggins to the public on Jan. 17, 2023. They also announced that the Vickerstaffs were taken into custody in Jacksonville and charged in connection with the case. Jan. 26, 2023 : The Vickerstaffs were extradited to Lee County nine days later.

: The Vickerstaffs were extradited to Lee County nine days later. January 2023: Ruths bond was set at $10,000. She was permitted to travel to Jacksonville, but required to wear an ankle monitor. She was only allowed to leave Jacksonville when traveling back to Opelika. Lamars bail was denied.

Ruths bond was set at $10,000. She was permitted to travel to Jacksonville, but required to wear an ankle monitor. She was only allowed to leave Jacksonville when traveling back to Opelika. Lamars bail was denied. March 2023 : Lamar appeared in court for a preliminary hearing. His case was passed over to the circuit court for further action by a Lee County grand jury.

: Lamar appeared in court for a preliminary hearing. His case was passed over to the circuit court for further action by a Lee County grand jury. April 2023: The OPD hosted a candlelight vigil for Amore Wiggins and her biological mother Sherry Wiggins attended the event. The OPD announced plans for a project to build a bronze statue of Amore, which will be placed in front of the Lee County Courthouse.

PHOTOS: Amore Wiggins memorial service
Executive realness DOWN! 



Clear your calendars for Amanda Tori Meating on #DragRace Season 16  premiering FRI JAN 5 at 8/7c on @MTV!  @AmandaTori69 pic.twitter.com/D4I9kia6ev  RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) December 6, 2023

Amanda Tori Meating

Rise and shine 



Dawn joins the Ruvolution when #DragRace Season 16 premieres FRI JAN 5 at 8/7c on @MTV!  @upuntil_dawn pic.twitter.com/OpgyxlijcK  RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) December 6, 2023

Dawn

Vroom vroom!  @Geneva_Karr is revving up the competition when #DragRace Season 16 premieres FRI JAN 5 at 8/7c on @MTV!  pic.twitter.com/q5CaOLBbjW  RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) December 6, 2023

Geneva Karr

It's chocolate! 



It doesn't get any sweeter than Hershii LiqCour-Jete on #DragRace Season 16  premiering FRI JAN 5 at 8/7c on @MTV!  @HershiiLiqCour pic.twitter.com/jTIByGsiCJ  RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) December 6, 2023

Hershii LiqCour-Jete

New York City, stand up because @MegamiNyc is HEREEEEE!  #DragRace Season 16 premieres FRI JAN 5 at 8/7c on @MTV!  pic.twitter.com/NMY7XkHlJW  RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) December 6, 2023

Megami

Flipping her way to the top! 



Make way for Mhi'ya Iman Le'Paige on #DragRace Season 16 premiering FRI JAN 5 at 8/7c on @MTV!  @QueenOfFlipss pic.twitter.com/Rh4LCC7DJe  RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) December 6, 2023

Mhiya Iman LePaige

Now you see her... 



The elusive Mirage makes her #DragRace debut on Season 16 premiering FRI JAN 5 at 8/7c on @mtv!  @Mirage_amuro pic.twitter.com/a4Q3Wg6Wet  RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) December 6, 2023

Mirage

Doctor, we need more Morphine Love Dion! 



Catch the mug in action on #DragRace Season 16 premiering FRI JAN 5 at 8/7c on @MTV!  @morphinelovemua pic.twitter.com/Q3HnNIeXDL  RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) December 6, 2023

Morphine Love Dion

Prepare to be blown away by Nymphia Wind!  #DragRace Season 16 premieres FRI JAN 5 at 8/7c on @MTV!  @nymphia99 pic.twitter.com/alFGHVpzVu  RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) December 6, 2023

Nymphia Wind

Prepare for takeoff 



Plane Jane joins the competition when #DragRace Season 16 premieres FRI JAN 5 at 8/7c on @MTV!  pic.twitter.com/a5sRfjgjfp  RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) December 6, 2023

Plane Jane

She's already under your skin! 



Catch Plasma on #DragRace Season 16 premiering FRI JAN 5 at 8/7c on @mtv!  @Plasma_NYC pic.twitter.com/L1hxS2BFmr  RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) December 6, 2023

Plasma

KCMO is where you can find her! 



Q sashays into #DragRace Season 16 on FRI JAN 5 at 8/7c on @MTV!  pic.twitter.com/RkXv8qYmnz  RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) December 6, 2023

Q

Sapphira Cristal

Star quality runs in the family!  @XunamiMuse hits the runway on #DragRace Season 16 premiering FRI JAN 5 at 8/7c on @MTV!  pic.twitter.com/hpMmdN0gOL  RuPaul's Drag Race (@RuPaulsDragRace) December 6, 2023

Xunami Muse

The time has come to join the ru-volution and Meet the 14 Queens set to compete on Season 16 ofwhich premieres January 5th on MTV.Calling all staff: theres a mandatory meeting to discuss this funny queen! Ready to take it to the top with her wit, wigs, and energetic moves, this talented wig stylist has done wigs for Drag Race queens Kerri and Sasha Colby, and Beyonces music video dancers. Amanda is the ultimate mix of camp and comedy!The self-described "ethereal elf goddess of Brooklyn," Dawn is a fitting name for a queen who often stays up late enough to see the sunrise. Designing and constructing almost all of her eccentric looks, this kooky and artistic queen always brings a story when she hits the stage, and shes hoping for a happy ending at Drag Race!Viva Mexico! RuPauls Drag Races first Mexican-born queen, Geneva witnessed her parents' struggles as they worked tirelessly to get her family safely to the United States in search of a better life. A dancing queen with a mischievous energy, she plans to be the first Mexican-born queen to win the [U.S. version's] crown!Its chocolate! Part of the legendary Haus of Jete, Hershii counts Drag Race star Kornbread Jete as her sister. A take-no-prisoners performer with a legion of L.A.-area fans, Hershii is now ready to slay the main stage of RuPauls Drag Race. When not performing, Hershii is very family-oriented, and, together with her boyfriend, is raising two young children.This self-proclaimed geek-chic" queen started doing drag as a cosplayer at conventions such as Comic Con, and from there incorporated high fashion into her characterful designs. Proudly claiming Nuyorican culture, Megami means goddess in Japanese, and this creative force now hopes to rule the Drag Race world!Get ready for your world to be turned upside-down! An electrifying performer, Mhiya is known as the Queen of Flips. Thats because you can find Mhiya performing her thrilling flips and tricks in the sun, on the sidewalks of South Beach. Mhiyas videos of her flipping onto cafe tables have caught fire on social media. Now, shes ready to flip the competition on its head!A heady mixture of stripper heels and stripper moves, the Legs of Las Vegas is here! Hailing from Sin City, this Native American and Mexican beauty towers in seven inches heels and legs that go on for days. Already a showgirl sensation on the Strip, this quirky queen is ready for the RuPauls Drag Races crown!Body, beauty, and mug  just what the doctor ordered. Morphine started out doing makeup tutorials on social media. Now, she is the self-proclaimed It Girl of Miami. Can this trained dancer  who has been featured in Maluma and Bad Bunny music videos  cha cha her way to the top of the competition?Banana time! RuPauls Drag Race's first queen to hail from Taiwan, Nymphia came to the United States to build on her massive fanbase of Banana Believers  a term given to her fans thanks to her signature color yellow, and penchant for the absurd. Inspired by Asian culture, art, and tradition, lets hope she doesnt slip up in the competition!Fasten your seatbelts, because, yes, that is how you spell this divas name. Plane Jane is as glamorous as she is wickedly funny. Boston-raised, but with Russian roots. No stranger to competition, Plane Jane was a competitive ballroom dancer as a child. Now, shes focusing all of her passion on becoming Americas Next Drag Superstar.Straight out of Old Hollywood, this vintage-inspired femme fatale leaves all of the boys hot and bothered. Raised listening to Julie Andrews, Judy Garland, and Barbra Streisand, Plasma channeled her love for divas into drag, and the rest is herstory. Can this queens BFA in Musical Theatre Performance raise the roof at RuPauls Drag Race? Time will tell!The only letter of the alphabet you ever need worry about! This talented diva is a theater queen who specializes in the costuming aspect of drag. She makes all of her own looks, plus many commissioned costumes for prior Drag Race stars. Q is ready to go all the way in this competition, one design challenge after the next!Philadelphias crown jewel, Sapphira is a serious musician with a six-octave vocal range. This powerhouse performer studied music composition, vocal performance, and opera, and in drag she can be found hosting, singing, dancing, and performing comedy. Is there anything this diva can't do?This self-described knock-off Naomi Campbell is the supermodel of the season. Originally from Colon, Panama, Xunami moved to New York City, where Drag Race superstar Kandy Muse became her drag mother. Signed with a modeling agency in New York, time will tell if this leggy beauty can strut her way to the top!
The UNs COP28 climate talks, a mega-conference running for two weeks, are organized around daily themes. The fifth day on Tuesday focused on energy and brought out much high-level discussion of hydrogen.

The high hopes for green hydrogen were apparent at last years COP27 summit in Egypt with a flurry of big project announcements. Those have faded from the news as few major projects have reached financial commitment.

Yet the seriousness of discussions in Dubai this week, pursued by top ministry officials and high-level executives, showed that the momentum toward green hydrogen continues to quietly build. This years conference lacks the flashy announcements, but it is moving forward with putting the basic structures in place to support a future hydrogen economy.

COP28 is showing that, while a viable market for green hydrogen still appears far from a tipping point, the ongoing activities of companies and governments is a growing force.

Presidents roundtable

A High-Level Ministerial-CEO Roundtable on Hydrogen convened on Tuesday, sponsored by the COP28 Presidents Office, with two hours of talks that cumulatively felt like a hydrogen wave. Ministers from numerous countries described their governments initiatives and financial support. An official from the US DOE spoke about $7bn for seven selected hydrogen hubs, also money for electrolysis development, and a hydrogen tax credit that can extend for up to 10 years at $3 per kilogram. Related: Exxon to Boost Share Buybacks to $20 Billion Next Year

Then top executives of some 15 companies, members of the Hydrogen Council, spoke of their already significant investments in the emerging sector. Executives from Air Liquide, Air Products, Hy24, Masdar, Next Era Energy, OCI Global, Port of Rotterdam, Topsoe, Thyssenkrupp, and others, called for incentives and clear regulation to enable global trade in the energy-rich element.

These progress reports notwithstanding, the Presidents roundtable made its most important statement with the announcement of two rather obscure initiatives. It featured the launch of a Declaration of Intent on Mutual Recognition of Certification Schemes for Hydrogen and Derivatives. It also introduced a new ISO methodology for GHG emissions assessment of hydrogen.

Thirty-nine countries have endorsed the Hydrogen Declaration of Intent to pursue mutual recognition of hydrogen certification schemes, according to COP28.

Looking for a breakthrough

Later in the day, another roundtable focused on the basic tasks of putting the hydrogen structure together.

Part of the so-called Breakthrough Agenda that began with COP26 two years ago, it gathered representatives of World Bank, IEA, IRENA, the UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the International Partnership for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in the Economy (IPHE), other major non-profits and some governments.

They considered needs in key areas including standards and certification, demand creation, research and innovation, finance and investment. The bright spot, after the mornings announcements, was standards and certifications.

Weve seen standards and certification really rise in the agenda, almost in a surprising way, said Paul Durant, who is Head of Climate Innovation for the UK government. Mr. Durant chaired the roundtable meeting.

The subsequent discussion of demand creation indicated less certainty, where a huge gap between hydrogen and fossil fuel cost was considered.

When is comes to demand creationwe are in the very beginning, said Oleksiy Tatarenko, Senior Principal, Hydrogen Initiatives at Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), whose large team is working specifically on demand creation. He spoke of the need for combined policy interventions and market-based mechanisms to grow demand for hydrogen.

We still have a massive challenge, even in the developed countries.

Making an economic case, sector by sector, you have a gap in hydrogen competitiveness versus carbon fuels or other solutions.

Hydrogens good day

Today saw a big outcome for hydrogenwe are now putting into place concrete elements to ensure it will happen, said Laurent Antoni, Executive Director, IPHE, who spoke at both roundtables.

His organization has advocated for years for the ISO methodology and helped to shepherd the declaration on certification schemes to agreement.

We need to rely on robust regulations, which themselves have to rely on certification, the labelling of hydrogen.

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And within the certification schemes what matters, the main point, is carbon footprint, he said. He also stressed the importance of the new ISO method to ensure everyone uses precisely the same methodology to quantify the carbon footprint, to allow comparison across markets and borders.

Its a key common piece needed in all countries regulations to facilitate a future hydrogen market. Thats a big breakthrough, he thinks.

Antoni, an electrochemist, wont talk colours in regard to hydrogen.

When speaking about a kind of hydrogen, what youre really speaking about is the carbon footprint, he said. And the carbon footprint of the hydrogen is regardless of the primary energy and technology used to produce it.

What matters for hydrogen is to use decarbonized hydrogen, he said. Its not a silver bullet, but without low-emission hydrogen, we wont achieve our climate targets.

By Alan Mammoser for Oilprice.com

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Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are playing an increasingly pivotal role in global energy systems, helping improve grid reliability and flexibility by managing the intermittency of renewable energy. But uncertainty over the profitability of such systems in Europe risks holding back their roll-out, according to Rystad Energy research. As well as providing trading (arbitrage) opportunities for operators, the development of large-scale BESS projects is essential for the energy transition, helping balance fluctuations in renewable energy and improving grid reliability. As such, any slowdown in battery storage growth could spell bad news for the energy transition.

BESS energy arbitrage, the process of charging batteries when electricity prices are low and discharging them during higher-priced peak demand periods, is a promising avenue for operators to maximize margins and generate revenue. According to our latest research, which analyzes day-ahead power prices in Europe for 2023, Bulgaria (BG), Italy (NORD) and Hungary (HU) offer the highest profit potential for BESS energy arbitrage. In contrast, Nordic power markets, specifically Sweden (SE1), Norway (NO1) and Finland (FI), exhibited the lowest profit potential due to their relatively low peak prices.

Bulgarias power market offers the most opportunity for high revenues, with a battery storage system with two hours of discharge capacity using energy arbitrage capable of generating 110 per megawatt-hour (MWh) in terms of average spot market revenue in 2023. Related: The Worlds Safest and Deadliest Sources of Energy

BESS capacity could be the key to a reliable, green energy future, but questions over its profitability could severely slow uptake. Currently, profitability is limited to markets operating under very specific conditions, so policies and incentives are required to mitigate risk and encourage build-out. While spot market profits exceed system costs in a few European countries, even a 30% tax credit on BESS projects may not be enough to make energy arbitrage a standalone viable business case in 2023, says Sepehr Soltani, energy storage analyst at Rystad Energy.

Soaring prices in Europe's spot power market and a growing emphasis on emission reduction have propelled power purchase agreements (PPA) into the spotlight as an enticing option for buying parties seeking to secure clean energy sources at stable and competitive prices. Just as PPAs increase the appeal of solar and wind farms, attracting investors and propelling industry maturity in recent years, this mechanism holds promise as a potential solution for BESS as well.

Categorized as either physical PPAs or virtual PPAs, the latter are gaining increasing traction due to their inherent benefits. A virtual PPA (VPPA) is a contract structure in which a power buyer agrees to purchase a project's power at a pre-agreed price. Under this arrangement, the utility project receives the market price when the energy is sold. If the market price is higher than the fixed VPPA price, the buyer pockets the difference. In essence, VPPAs provide BESS projects with a guaranteed price for output, which is highly advantageous for developers seeking to finance new projects.

Due to the ongoing European energy crisis and significant shifts in the market, the growing reliance on renewable energy within Europe's power mix will introduce heightened unpredictability in the coming years. This uncertainty will be exacerbated by the limited availability of flexibility options (FO) in grid  such as cross-border trade and BESS  amplifying the potential negative impact of a low-priced PPA on a BESS revenue stream and creating large degrees of variance for BESS owner.

Based on current prices in 2023, any PPA in Europe priced below 75 per MWh would result in a financial loss for the BESS owner. Some markets have minimum prices far above 100 per MWh, relatively far from where PPA prices for renewable energy are currently.

To ensure BESS projects function as profitable tool, a relatively high PPA price is necessary to compete with energy arbitrage revenues in 2023. This is based on the assumption of a one-charge discharge cycle per day, which aligns with current market standards.

Engaging the expertise of a trading specialist allows for the maximizing of profits by strategically operating BESS across various markets, including capacity markets, while consistently delivering the agreed-upon power in the PPA. This entails reserving a portion of BESS capacity for services such as energy curtailment and frequency control ancillary services (FCAS) throughout the day. Such a proactive strategy not only amplifies potential revenue streams but also enables a reduction in the minimum PPA that the BESS owner must offer. Consequently, this adjustment increases the attractiveness of the PPA price for the buyer (offtaker), while adding more complexity to the BESS operation.

While the prevalence of traditional PPAs for BESS may be declining in Europe compared to solar and wind agreements due to the inherent differences in their operational nature, its flexibility remains its hallmark.

This flexibility allows BESS operators to take advantage of volatile power markets and provide grid services such as frequency regulation and peak shaving. The attractiveness of energy arbitrage opportunities for BESS varies across markets and depends on the specific time and power system situation.

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The current volatility in European power markets presents substantial energy arbitrage opportunities and offers BESS operators considerable flexibility, providing an additional source of flexible supply and addressing the evolving needs of Europe's power market.

By Rystad Energy

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Russia didnt sign up to a U.S.-led pact pledging to triple nuclear energy capacity by 2050, but Moscow welcomed the declaration at COP28 as a positive shift in energy goals to help achieve global climate targets.

At the COP28 climate summit, the United States and 21 other countries pledged to triple nuclear energy capacities by 2050, saying incorporating more nuclear power in their energy mix is critical for achieving their net zero goals in the coming decades.

The United States, alongside Britain, France, Canada, Sweden, South Korea, Ghana, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), among others, signed the declaration at the COP28 climate summit currently underway in Dubai.

The Declaration recognizes the key role of nuclear energy in achieving global net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and keeping the 1.5-degree Celsius goal within reach, the U.S. Department of State said.

John Kerry, President Bidens climate envoy, says there are trillions of dollars available that could be used for investment in nuclear energy.

We are not making the argument to anybody that this is absolutely going to be the sweeping alternative to every other energy source  no, thats not what brings us here. But you cant get to net-zero 2050 without some nuclear power, he told reporters.

Commenting on the pact, Russias Deputy Economy Minister Vladimir Ilyichev told Bloomberg in an interview that Without nuclear energy it is impossible to achieve climate goals.

The declaration recognizing the key role of nuclear energy in helping to achieve climate goals is a positive shift, Ilyichev told Bloomberg at the COP28 summit.

Talks on climate between the West and Russia have stalled since the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The sanctions hinder negotiations, according to the Russian official.

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Russia is one of the worlds biggest nuclear power developers and a major producer of oil and gas.

Russia will continue to pitch natural gas as a lower-emission source of energy, Ilyichev told Bloomberg.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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As Yemens Houthis continue to target vessels in the Red Sea, and claimed on Wednesday to have launched missiles directly at Israel, Saudi Arabia is calling on the U.S. to show restraint as U.S. naval forces respond to Houthi attacks. On Wednesday, the Houthis launched several ballistic missiles at Israeli military posts in the city of Eilat, Reuters reports, citing a Houthi spokesperson. That statement followed the U.S. Navys shooting down of a Houthi drone earlier in the day.

Analysts seem to be of the opinion that the Saudis are calling for restraint in order to avoid further escalation as this vital oil shipping route comes under attack.

The calls for restraint follow an incident on Sunday in which three commercial ships were attacked by Houthis in international waters. The Houthis claimed the vessels had connections to Israel, which the Israelis have denied. The U.S. Navy shot down three Houthi drones when the vessels came under attack.

Vaguely, the Pentagon has simply said if it decides to take more direct action against the Houthis, it will be at a time and place of its own choosing, apparently referring to the Saudi call for restraint.

The Houthis pose a significant threat to commercial shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a sea route choke point between the Horn of Africa and the Middle East, connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea. Most exports of petroleum and natural gas from the Persian Gulf that transit the Suez Canal or the SUMED Pipeline pass through both the Bab el-Mandeb and the Strait of Hormuz. With Israels war on Gaza raging, the Saudis are concerned with maintaining several balances, including the fragile semi-peace in Yemen that has resulted from its restoration of diplomatic ties with long-time arch-rival Iran, who has backed the Houthis, which have a sizable weapons arsenal. That arsenal was used in 2019 to attack Saudi Aramco oil facilities to devastating (if short-lived) impact on oil markets.

Reuters has cited senior sources in the Iran-aligned camp as saying that the Houthis were using Red Sea attacks to pressure the U.S. to push Israel to cease its offensive on Gaza.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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The Trans Mountain Expansion Project could face fresh delays after the Canadian regulator denied a variance request from the project developer to move a small section of the pipeline due to challenging drilling conditions.

The Canada Energy Regulator (CER) denied the variance request but said that it also considers it appropriate to take the exceptional step of issuing its decision with reasons to follow as soon as possible.

Trans Mountain Corporation, the company owned by the federal government of Canada, acknowledged it had received the letter from the regulator denying the variance request for the Mountain 3 Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD), in the Fraser Valley between Hope and Chilliwack, British Columbia.

Trans Mountain is now waiting to receive the reasons for the decision, the corporation said, adding that construction on the Trans Mountain Expansion Project is now more than 97.8% complete.

The denial of the variance request is yet another hurdle to the completion and commissioning of the project, which has seen multiple setbacks and delays in recent years.

At the start of the project, fierce opposition in British Columbia forced Kinder Morgan to reconsider its commitment to expand the Trans Mountain pipeline that carries crude from Albertas oil sands to British Columbia on the Pacific Coast and which will triple the capacity of the original pipeline to 890,000 barrels per day (bpd) from 300,000 bpd.

So the Government of Canada reached an agreement with Kinder Morgan back in 2018 to buy the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and related pipeline and terminal assets. That cost the federal government $3.3 billion (C$4.5 billion) at the time. Since then, the costs for the expansion of the pipeline have quadrupled to nearly $22.6 billion (C$30.9 billion) and could continue to increase.

Trans Mountain has previously said that it targets to have first oil on the expanded pipeline to the Westridge Marine Terminal by the end of the first quarter of 2024. If construction is further delayed, the project could miss that deadline.

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Venezuelas president, Nicolas Maduro, has ordered the immediate start of exploration and exploitation of oil reserves in the Essequibo regionthe disputed territory that Venezuelans voted to annex.

Per an AP report, President Maduro said that he is to grant operating licenses for the exploration and exploitation of oil, gas and mines in the entire area of our Essequibo.

He also issued an order for the creation of local subsidiaries of the state oil and mining companies, PDVSA and Corporacion Venezolana de Guayana.

The Venezuelan parliament has yet to pass a law establishing Venezuelas jurisdiction over the Essequibo region, which represents two-thirds of the territory of Guyana and is where its oil riches are concentrated.

Guyana has refused to accept the results of the Venezuelan referendum, saying it was an attempt at annexing most of its territory, even after the International Court of Justice ruled that Essequibo is part of Guyana. Venezuelas government has said it does not recognize the jurisdiction of the ICJ on the matter.

Essequibo used to be part of Venezuela during its colonial period but at the end of the 19th century an international arbitration gave the land to Guyana, then a British colony. Venezuela has never accepted the arbitration decision but for most of the time since it was made it has not acted on its grievance.

Following last weekends referendum, Guyana said it will reach out to the UN Security Council for help if Venezuela takes any further steps to establish control over the Essequibo region.

The Attorney General of the former British colony told the AFP that "any action or any attempt to take any action pursuant to the referendum will necessitate a resort to the UN Security Council as an injured party."

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As Maduro yesterday announced the set-up of a Comprehensive Defense Operational Zone for the Essequibo region, Guyanas Attorney General said that "In terms of military, it (the UNSC) can authorise the use of armed forces by member states to assist in the enforcement."

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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A 39-year-old woman told police that she shot her boyfriend Tuesday night after he choked her during a physical assault at a house west of Tranquility Park in northwest Omaha.

Police were called to a home near 131st Street and Larimore Avenue at 7:40 p.m. for a report of an assault. Officers arrived and located a 40-year-old man suffering from a gunshot wound to his left leg, an Omaha police spokesman said.

According to a police report, the woman told officers that her boyfriend began to assault her during an argument and she, in response, grabbed a metal pipe and hit him over the head with it. The woman reported that he then strangled her from behind and she began to fear for her life, the report said.

As the man reportedly refused to release her from the chokehold, the woman grabbed a gun and fired two shots at the man. One of the shots struck the man in the leg.

The man was taken to the Nebraska Medical Center for treatment. He was released and booked into the Douglas County Jail.
A 29-year-old Aurora, Nebraska, man made his first court appearance Tuesday on a string of charges that included first-degree murder in connection with a triple stabbing early Saturday.

At a morning hearing, Hamilton County Court Judge Lynelle Homolka set Caleb Arnetts bail at $2 million after he was advised of the charges and possible penalties.

A day earlier, County Attorney Doug Dexter charged Arnett with the first-degree murder of his stepfather, Ross Nickolaus; two counts of first-degree assault; and three weapons charges.

If convicted, he would face life in prison.

In the affidavit for probable cause to arrest Arnett, Aurora Police Officer Cody Barry said he was called to a home on Fairview Drive in Aurora just after 1:20 a.m. Saturday about an active disturbance involving a knife. A man had a knife, and there was blood everywhere.

Barry said he arrived to find Theresa Arnett, Calebs mother, at the neighbors house with a cut across her throat and wounds to her back and arm.

In the affidavit, he said she pointed to her house and said he was inside in a white shirt. Barry headed to the house while two deputies attended to her until rescue workers arrived.

He said the front door was locked, but he could see Caleb Arnett in the hallway inside in a white shirt soaked in blood. Barry and a deputy went in a back door, then called out to Arnett to show his hands. Barry said Arnett dropped a knife, and he ordered him to lay on the floor, which he did. A deputy then handcuffed him.

Barry said he searched the rest of the house, finding a juvenile male, the one who had called 911, holed up in a bedroom with a severe cut to his right hand that required stitches.

He told Barry his brother, Caleb, had done it.

Barry said then he found Nickolaus, soaked in blood and with no pulse, in a bedroom in the basement. He said it appeared he had been stabbed in the chest while he slept, according to the court records.

Despite efforts to save him, Nickolaus was taken to the hospital and pronounced dead.

Theresa Arnett was flown by helicopter to a hospital in Omaha.

Court records dont make it clear what led up to the stabbings.

But a separate court case outlines Caleb Arnetts history of mental illness and delusions, and a diagnosis of psychotic disorder and bipolar disorder.

In 2014, his mother was named his guardian because the delusions had become worse since he had turned 19 and he was refusing to take his medication. At one point, he falsely told his father he had killed someone at McDonalds, according to court records in the case.

In early 2021, the guardianship was terminated because he had managed his appointments and maintained his mental health for two and a half years.
U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, left, and State Sen. John Whitmire answer questions during the final mayoral debate in the race for Houston mayor at Texas Southern University on Monday, Dec. 4, 2023. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

With the runoff election just around the corner, Houstonians are set to elect their next mayor, a position known for wielding an enormous amount of power in city government.

In Houston, the mayor's responsibilities extend well beyond serving as the face of the city. Under a strong mayor system, the nonpartisan elected official oversees all city affairs and has the authority to appoint and remove any city employee in accordance with the law.

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The mayor also serves as the head of City Council and, until recently, had near-total control over City Council's weekly agenda. However, this dynamic is shifting due to a recently approved charter amendment that allows any three council members to band together and place a proposal on the agenda.

Mayor Sylvester Turner, constrained by term limits, will leave office in January. The race to succeed him has narrowed to state Sen. John Whitmire and U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, who received 42.5% and 35.6% of the vote, respectively, in the November general election. Since neither candidate secured a majority, they are set to face off in a runoff election on Dec. 9.

Here's what you need to know about the scope of authority that comes with being Houston's mayor.

What does the Houston mayor do?

The Houston mayor acts as the city's general manager and official representative, earning $236,188 per year, according to the citys latest payroll data. This position ranks as one of the highest-paid jobs at Houston City Hall.

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As the chief executive officer, the mayor ensures that all city laws and ordinances are properly enforced. The mayor is also tasked with signing all proposals approved by City Council, keeping council members informed about the citys financial status and drafting the annual budget for council approval.

RUNOFF VOTER GUIDE: A comprehensive guide to the local runoff elections that your vote will decide on Dec. 9

The mayor is in charge of all administrative aspects within the government and holds the power to appoint department heads, subject to confirmation by the council. Additionally, the mayor can remove any of these directors without council approval and make personnel decisions about other city employees as permitted by law.

Beyond executive and administrative powers, Houston's mayor also presides over City Council with voting privileges.

Until recently, the mayor could block nearly any policy idea from reaching the council for discussion or a vote. In November, however, 83% of the Houston electorate voted to approve a charter amendment to loosen the mayors control over the councils legislative agenda. Now, any three of the 16 council members have the ability to place an item on the agenda for a vote.

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How does the Houston mayors authority compare to that in other cities?

In the United States, cities generally adopt one of two governance models: the strong mayor or the weak mayor system.

In a strong mayor city like Houston, the mayor has almost complete administrative authority. In a weak mayor city like Dallas, the mayor's executive powers are more restricted  with greater authority vested in an appointed city manager or the city council.

The power of Houston's mayor stands out even among strong mayors, as no other major city in the country allows its mayor to set the council agenda, according to former Mayor Annise Parker.

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Critics argue that the system places too much power with a single elected official. But Parker said the process enabled her administration to thoroughly review upcoming proposals and avoid overwhelming the weekly meeting with underdeveloped or legally unsound policy ideas.

You solve a lot of problems before they get there, Parker said. And again, if you have a good mayor, they're already meeting regularly with council, they're using the committee structure so the council members have input into things that are happening.

Will the newly approved Prop A undermine the mayors power?

While the new ability for council members to add items to the agenda will impact the mayor-council relationship, Parker said she does not anticipate it to significantly weaken the mayors power.

The mayor retains complete administrative authority under the charter, and every city employee still reports to the mayor, she said. She added that any attempts by council members to infringe on this power will be dismissed as illegal motions.

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City Attorney Arturo Michel agreed with Parkers assessment, saying that the new process will simply put more items on the table for discussion.

The city, however, will need to put safeguards in place to make sure that council members do not accidentally violate the Texas Open Meeting Act. For example, members discussing potential proposals should refrain from emailing or texting other members in a way that could involve enough members to constitute a quorum.
The facility where future doctors, nurses and other health care providers will be educated before spreading out across rural Nebraska will be named for the University of Nebraska administrator who helped bring it to fruition.

The NU Board of Regents last week approved the naming of the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex, a $95 million facility set to open at the University of Nebraska at Kearney in 2026.

The recommendation to name the building after the longtime UNK chancellor originated with the William and Ruth Scott Foundation, the lead donor on the public-private partnership.

This is one of the kindest, most impactful things anybody has ever done for me, said Kristensen, a former state senator and speaker of the Legislature who has led UNK since 2002.

Kristensen announced Wednesday that he would retire at the end of the school year.

When it opens to students, the 110,000-square-foot facility with state-of-the-art classrooms, learning labs and simulation centers will mark the next chapter in a partnership between UNK and the University of Nebraska Medical Center that began more than a decade ago.

Kristensen, as a longtime resident of Kearney at the heart of that partnership, said hes witnessed talented young people leave small and midsize communities across the state to pursue medical education and never come back.

People who gain their training and their education generally stay in the area where they get their last degree  thats human nature, he said. So, I think the realization started to bubble up that even if we prepare those undergraduates, once we send them off they werent coming back.

In 2010, Kristensen was instrumental in the creation of the Kearney Health Opportunities Program that gave students from rural Nebraska a pathway to a career in health care and helped connect them with those positions in areas of need across Nebraska.

The partnership grew again a few years later when the Building a Healthier Nebraska initiative focused on locating a UNMC facility for nursing and allied health professions at the universitys campus in Kearney.

Kristensen was part of the effort that helped secure $15 million in state appropriations to build a new facility for those programs, and led efforts to raise the remaining $4 million in private donations to finish construction and furnishing.

After it opened, the Health Science Education Complex quickly reached its capacity as more students sought UNK out as an option for programs such as nursing, occupational therapy, osteopathy and podiatry.

Between 2018 and 2023, applications for UNKs health science programs increased by 17% from 783 to 921, and roughly 1 out of every 5 students who apply to UNK is interested in a health career, a campus spokesman said.

And this fall, nearly one-fourth of UNKs incoming freshman class have declared a health science-related major, according to the university.

Kristensen said the growth in both interest and enrollment in the health sciences program, along with the greater demand for those professionals in rural areas across Nebraska, led to more ambitious thinking about how UNK and UNMC could fill those gaps.

The result was a proposed $85 million facility  the price tag later grew to $95 million  funded in part through $60 million in state-appropriated American Rescue Plan Act funds.

It also benefited from $5 million in funding from the City of Kearney, $1.5 million from Central Community College and $28.5 million from private sources interested in helping to build a sustainable workforce capable of meeting the health care needs of rural Nebraska.

We didnt have to come up with some slick marketing campaign, Kristensen said. It was the right project at the right time.

Along with members of the Legislature and university leaders like President Ted Carter and UNMC Chancellor Jeff Gold, the new facility aimed at training health care professionals who desire to work in a rural setting piqued the interest of Omaha philanthropists William and Ruth Scott, who became lead donors through their foundation.

John Scott, the vice president for the William and Ruth Scott Foundation, said that as the organization looked at extending its charitable giving outside Omaha, the goals of the Rural Health Education Building lined up with the causes it felt were worth supporting.

When the NU Foundation notified the Scotts that their donation had earned them the rights to decide whose name was going to be on the building, Scott said one person immediately rose to the top of the list.

Kristensens impact at UNK, on Kearney, and in the Legislature going back decades made him the easy choice, Scott said.

I cant think of a person who has had more of a positive impact on both the Kearney campus and the Kearney community than Doug, Scott said. Frankly, thats exactly the kind of person we want to recognize.

Last week, during the regents meeting where the naming was approved, administrators and regents echoed the support expressed by the Scotts.

His undying efforts have truly been amazing, and this will be a remarkable project, not just for Kearney or the University of Nebraska at Kearney, but frankly across the world, Gold said.

I think this complex will literally change the future of the state and will save countless lives in the future, said Omaha Regent Elizabeth OConnor. We couldnt have done this without Chancellor Kristensen.

Student Regent Katie Schultis, who represents UNMC, and Student Regent Temo Molina of UNK said they supported naming the truly life-changing project after the chancellor.

Kristensen said he has been overwhelmed by the show of support for the new project, from senators across the political spectrum to Nebraskans living in rural and urban areas, which he credited for helping the project be realized.

My fear is they put your name on the building and people will think it was you, he said. Im here to tell you it was a lot of people who came together and worked very hard.

In the years ahead, the chancellor said he envisions that the Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex will give students an immersive experience in a rural setting while also providing them access to the same kind of education they would get at UNMCs main campus in Omaha.

Kristensen said the project will also spur further growth in his hometown of Kearney, keeping it a strong economic driver in central Nebraska.

Its going to become a reality, and Im so appreciative of everybody that helped, he said. We got it right.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of November 2023
NORMAL  Normal City Manager Pam Reece on Wednesday announced three interim positions for the towns leadership team, including a new interim assistant city manager.

The Town of Normal is fortunate to have extremely qualified individuals on its leadership team who can step into these interim roles, Reece said in a statement. A comprehensive search for the next assistant city manager will take some time, and I dont want to rush the process. These leaders will provide stability and continuity during the transition.

Brian Day, who has served as the towns corporation counsel since 2014, will serve as acting interim assistant city manager as Eric Hanson leaves the town to become the city manager of Galesburg.

Hanson, who has served the town for the last five years, has worked on over $1.25 billion in economic development projects and over $100 million in capital improvement initiatives for the town.

A search for the next assistant city manager will start in early 2024 and could take six to nine months to complete, Reece said in a statement.

Before joining the town, Day was lead staff attorney for the Illinois Municipal League from 2008 to 2014 and was a staff attorney for the Illinois Legislative Reference Bureau from 2001 to 2008.

In addition, deputy corporation counsel Jason Querciagrossa will serve as interim corporation counsel while Day fulfills the acting duties of the city manager role, and finance director Andrew Huhn will oversee economic development responsibilities during the interim period.

Huhn has served as director of the towns financial department since 2011 and Querciagrossa has served as deputy corporation council for the town since 2018.

Photos: The 2023 Bloomington-Normal Jaycees Holiday Parade.
How Time Flies is a daily feature looking back at Pantagraph archives to revisit what was happening in our community and region.

100 years ago

Dec. 6, 1923: College men, as a rule, are not blessed with particularly large families, but Bert Wilson, who has just taken up his work as a president of Eureka College, is blessed in this respect. He has eight daughters, the youngest in kindergarten and the oldest a sophomore at Eureka College. President Wilson expects each will secure the degree of A.B. from Eureka College in the next few years.

75 years ago

Dec. 6, 1948: Two employees of the Paul F. Beich Candy Co. received diamond set pins recognizing more than a century of combined service. Awards were made Saturday night (Dec. 4) at the company's annual dinner dance for employees. Ernest H. Black of 1007 E. Jefferson St. was recognized for 57 years of service and Orie Whitten of 1103 S. Center St. was recognized for 56 years of service.

50 years ago

Dec. 6, 1973: Members of the Evangelical Free Church are moving into a new church at 2910 E. Lincoln St. The congregation, which was organized in 1967, met for six years at 315 N. Prairie, but had to rent additional space to house services there. The new sanctuary seats 260.

25 years ago

Dec. 6, 1998: The 69th annual Bloomington-Normal Jaycees Christmas parade stepped off in some unseemly warm weather Saturday morning, inviting some who had never before seen the parade. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived atop the new Hamilton Road station's Truck Nov. 2, which inched its way through the parade route, from the city's Franklin Park, north on Main Street up to Normal Community High School.

Vintage Pantagraph newspaper ads for medicine, 'magic' remedies Clover Blossom Extract - Nov. 15, 1883 St. Jacobs Oil - July 14, 1887 Castoria - July 26, 1892 Rheumatic Ring - May 29, 1894 Beefmalt - May 29, 1894 Wakefield's Cough Syrup - Feb. 13, 1908 S.S.S. - April 23, 1908 Olive Tablets - Nov. 20, 1911 Cold-go - Dec. 11, 1911 Dr. Danby - Dec. 11, 1911 Allcock Plasters - March 2, 1917 Olive Tablets - Feb. 23, 1918 Laxative Bromo Quinine - Oct. 16, 1918 Bayer Tablets of Aspirin - April 24, 1919 Bayer Tablets of Aspirin - April 29, 1919 Snake Oil - Nov. 22, 1919 Beecham's Pills - Nov. 22, 1919 Snake Oil - Nov. 29, 1919 Doan's Kidney Pills - March 8, 1920 Bayer Tablets of Aspirin - Sept. 21, 1920 J.C. Hutzell's Eczema Treatment - Nov. 11, 1922 Gude's Pepto-Mangan - April 2, 1923 O-Joy Corn Wafers - March 4, 1930 Dr. Pierce's Favorite Prescription - March 19, 1930 666 Tablets - March 25, 1930 Cuticura - March 25, 1930 Geo-Mineral - Dec. 8, 1948 Anacin - Jan. 16, 1963 Liquiprin - Aug. 27, 1970 Icy Hot - Nov. 20, 1977
George Santos, the infamous fabulist, got the boot from Congress last week. The first member to be expelled in over 20 years and one of only three members to be kicked out for something other than fighting for the Confederacy, Santos was the only representative since the Civil War to be removed without first being convicted of a crime (bribery, to be specific).

There's not enough space here to recount all of the allegations against Santos, which include 23 federal charges, including fraud and identity theft. What seems clear is that Santos was a bit like Max Bialystock, the main character from "The Producers." Bialystock thought he could bilk investors, or in Santos' case donors, on the assumption that no one would inquire about what he did with their money if the Santos show bombed. But Santos won his Long Island congressional race, inviting scrutiny that should have been applied when he announced his run.

Still, some of those standing athwart Santo's defenestration yelling "Stop!" -- or at least, "think this through" -- make good points. Dan McLaughlin in National Review and Byron York in the Washington Examiner both argue that expelling House members without a criminal conviction will have unintended consequences. And it's not just conservatives. Adam Serwer, a liberal writer for The Atlantic, agrees that "Congress deciding for itself whether voters have made a mistake could lead to more members being expelled for things that they are only alleged to have done."

It's important to note that no serious person -- at least that I can find -- defends Santos on the merits. As York stipulates, "Santos had no business being in the House, and it was an embarrassment that he was elected in the first place."

While their points are well-taken, I nonetheless dissent.

In almost any other institution -- a business, university, newspaper, law firm, etc. -- the question of whether to fire someone doesn't normally hinge on a criminal conviction. Say you're a boss of an employee accused of myriad misdeeds, from making up his resume to criminal fraud. You wouldn't fire the employee based on mere rumors. You'd conduct some kind of investigation. If that investigation provided evidence to your satisfaction, you'd fire that employee. You wouldn't wait, possibly for years, for a criminal conviction.

Of course, Congress is different. Members don't work for the House, they work for their constituents. "One advantage of holding off on expulsions is that a conviction provides a clear, neutral limiting principle," the editors of the Wall Street Journal rightly note. "What's the rule now?" they ask.

How about enough facts to satisfy two-thirds of the House? Which is what it took to oust Santos.

Expelling Santos was an act of political repair, not destruction. Yes, it violated a longstanding and defensible norm, but the decision was forced by the breakdown of other norms. For starters, Santos is a shameless fraud who, by word and deed, had no loyalty to norms of conduct. He also took advantage of the breakdown of basic notions of journalistic and partisan due diligence. If the natural biofilters of the political ecosystem aren't working, Congress can and should change its standards when toxic sludge sluices into the chamber.

Congress, after all, is the supreme branch of government. (The idea that the three branches are "co-equal" is an invention of the Nixon era.) Congress writes the law, creates most courts and all executive agencies, and sets their salaries. Congress can fire members of the other two branches, while those branches cannot touch Congress. And it can fire its own members, too.

One of the great sources of dysfunction in American politics is the refusal of Congress to take itself seriously. Removing the unserious Santos is a small first step.

One of my biggest peeves about the impeachment debates of the last quarter-century centered on the same argument used to oppose Santos' expulsion: that the only just standard for impeaching a president can be found in criminal law.

The idea that a president must be proved guilty of a crime beyond a reasonable doubt to be removed from office is a nonsensical standard. It's also cowardly, because it allows members of Congress to abdicate all responsibility to apply their judgment. The presumption of innocence standard is right and proper for criminal cases, because the convicted can be deprived of life and liberty.

But impeachment, like expulsion, merely deprives a politician of a privilege -- to hold power. I'll worry about the unintended consequences when someone undeserving loses that privilege.
The Trust Hospital Limited, a prominent health services provider in the nation, recently conducted its strategic business meeting to highlight its commendable performance over the past three years and present its medium-term framework.



Post-pandemic, the hospital has experienced an upward trajectory in facilities operated, services offered and revenue generated. The five-year plan, Agenda 2027, focuses on sustainability, professionalism, teamwork, innovation, client focus, and service excellence.



Dr. Emmanuel O. Addo-Yobo, the Board Chair, commended the hospital's transformative journey over the last half-decade, stating, "The Trust Hospital exemplifies what is achievable with the right people and systems in place."



Mr. Kofi Bosompem Osafo-Maafo, Deputy Director-General responsible for Investment and Development at the sole shareholder, Social Security National Investment Trust (SSNIT), similarly praised the hospital's post-COVID performance. "For us, in addition to the exceptional quality of healthcare delivery, we like to look at the numbers and for the last three years, certainly post-Covid, has been a time of good performance and that has boosted the Trust Hospital brand," he said.



The shareholders representative urged the hospital to be targeted in its expansion drive.



Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Juliana Oye Ameh acknowledged the challenges of 2020 but highlighted the hospital's recovery journey since 2021, emphasizing progress in profitability and quality care. Strategies include introducing new services, strengthening traditional offerings, and establishing a monitoring unit to track strategic plan targets.



In 2024, the hospital aims to focus on collaboration, engaging in continuous development with learning institutions globally and partnering with medical practices to enhance human capacity.



Dr. Ameh emphasized sustainability as a core value, stating, "We believe in sound sustainability practices for the long haul." Under her tutelage, the Trust Hospital introduced forward-thinking initiatives, notably the Pink October event in 2022, screening over 6,000 individuals.



Last year, the hospital inaugurated the state-of-the-art Premium Centre, offering diverse treatments locally. This year, the dedicated oncology services through the Trust Cancer Care unit prioritize patient comfort, privacy, and emotional support.



The Trust Hospital was established in 1992 as a not-for-profit health facility to provide healthcare to SSNIT staff and their dependents. The facility was later upgraded into a full-fledge hospital to extend its services to the general public.



The Trust Hospital was incorporated in November, 2010 as The Trust Hospital Company Limited. We have three Hospitals-The Trust Hospital, The Trust Specialist Hospital and The Trust Mother and Child Hospital and six Satellite Clinics.



The Trust Specialist Hospital located is a subsidiary of The Trust Hospital Company Limited. It became operational in September 2012. The major departments at this facility are Ophthalmology, Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT), Dental and Physiotherapy. There are two Theatres at this facility. The Trust Mother and Child Hospital, has an ultra-modern facility that takes care of Obstetrics and Gynecological cases and Paediatrics.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Chief of Defense Staff Vice Admiral Seth Amoama says the Ghana Armed Forces will be on hand to provide background support to the Police and other security agencies who will provide security for the 2024 elections.



According to the CDS, even though the army will not play frontal role in election security, they will be ready to assist the Police if they are called upon.



Speaking at a national election security task force meeting chaired by the Inspector-General of Police Dr George Akuffo Dampare at the Police Headquarters in Accra, the CDS said the Ghana Armed Forces remain committed to their core mandate.



We in the Armed Forces commit to our constitutionally mandated duty to protect this country and prevent any aggression from outside the country and also from within and we do so by air, by sea and by land, and even do at the peril of our lives.



On the 2024 elections, the CDS noted for the election proper we may not be in the upfront of election duties but we will be in the background to support you the Police Service and other security services. The Armed Forces is ready to act accordingly when we are called upon but for the election duties proper I will leave it to the security services to be in the forefront. We will always be in the background to act appropriately when we are called upon.



The chairperson of the electoral commission Mrs. Jean Mensa who was at the stakeholder meeting expressed her gratitude to the security agencies for their support during elections.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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A leading agro-commodities trading firm, Kingdom Exim Group, has again fulfilled her commitment to supporting and appreciating hard working farmers in Ghana.



The support which comes in the form of cash donations, T-shirts and other farm inputs were donated to the National headquarters of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), selected Regional Coordinating Councils and MMDAs participating in awarding farmers who have demonstrated selflessness and dedication to feeding the Ghanaian populace.



Beneficiaries of the kind gesture by the Group include the National Best Crop Farmer, Bono East Regional Coordinating Council, Techiman North, Techiman Municipal Assembly, Wenchi Municipal Assembly, Nkoranza Municipal Assembly, Jaman North Assembly, Jaman South Municipal Assembly and the Tema Metropolitan Assembly.



Addressing the media on behalf of the CEO of the Group of companies, Head of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Peter Mensah admonished all industry players to come out and show love to Ghana's gallant farmers, saying their tireless contributions were keeping all companies surviving in the country. Mr. Peter Mensah recounted how dealing honestly with Ghanaian farmers had made the Kingdom Exim Group grow from strength to strength.



The Deputy Minister of MOFA, Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo who doubles as a Member of Parliament for the people of Amansie West commended the Kingdom Exim Group for the support and requested all captains of industries to emulate the enviable, shinning patriotism of the Group.



Political heads of the respective Regional Coordinating Councils and MMDA's could not keep their appreciations after receiving benevolent support from the Group.



It is noteworthy to mention that the company did not only make both cash and kind presentations, it also participated in all the National, Regional MMDAs centres' celebration of the 2023 edition of the Farmers' Day Celebration.



Products relaunch



Meanwhile, during this years Farmers' Day Celebration, Bigstars Animal Feed Limited, a subsidiary of the Kingdom Exim Group, launched their newly improved products, namely the 5% layer concentrate and 20% layer concentrate. The ribbon cutting for the product launch was done by the Regional Minister and the Mo Manhene.



Speaking at the Farmers' Day Celebration in the Bono East Region, Mr. Blaboe highlighted the various contributions Kingdom Exim Group and its subsidiary Big Stars Animal Feed Limited have made towards the growth of the agricultural sector in Ghana over the years.



Addressing the Bono East Regional Minister, Hon. Kwasi Adu-Gyan, the Mo Manhene, Nana Kwaku Dankwa III, and other dignitaries during the celebration, Mr. Blaboe recounted that "Big Stars Animal Feed Limited has been providing quality animal feeds over the years, and has built a strong reputation in the animal feed industry. We have achieved this by always providing quality products (mashes and concentrates) to our esteemed customers. Our concentrates are highly patronised in the Ashanti, Bono East, Bono, Ahafo and Northern regions."



He noted that "the concentrate feeds constitutes about 40% of the feed market and is heavily enjoyed by a lot of imported products.



According to him, Big Stars concentrates are locally manufactured under strict nutritional formulation, certified and approved by the FDA and GSA, saying "the relaunch and rebranding of Our products are aimed at: reducing the cost of production of poultry and livestock, providing poultry and livestock with the requisite nutrition for optimum growth and development."



"Our products have been formulated to meet industry standards and quality and to compete greatly with foreign brands," he added.

















Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Ghana Association of Restructuring & Insolvency Advisors (GARIA) concluded its week-long celebration with the 3rd Presidential Fundraising Dinner and Awards Night.



The event brought together industry leaders, government officials, and distinguished guests to recognize outstanding achievements in the field of restructuring and insolvency. The evening kicked off with a cocktail reception, fostering networking among attendees who eagerly anticipated the main ceremony.



Her Ladyship Justice Sophia A.B. Akuffo, Chairperson of the GARIA Trust Fund, in her opening remarks noted that the economic realities of these times brings the relevance of GARIA into sharp focus.



Clear regulations are invaluable for holding professionals to high standards and for ensuring that the integrity of the insolvency process is maintained to protect the interest of all stakeholders involved including creditors, debtors and the public.



In its absence, the already overburdened courts becomes the point of reference for discerning and framing best practice standards which is neither desirable or appropriate for the development of an efficient and vibrant business rescue industry, she said, noting that a strengthened GARIA is good for not just business but the economy in general.



Mr. Felix Addo, President of GARIA, delivered an inspiring speech underscoring the association's dedication to promoting excellence in restructuring and insolvency. He highlighted GARIA's collaboration with stakeholders to protect creditors' rights and contribute to Ghana's economic growth.



Mr. Addo emphasized GARIA's active role in global dialogues on insolvency practices Over the past year, GARIA has been actively engaged in representing Ghana at various international forums, he said, touching on the recent journal launch featuring contributions from Nigeria, Australia, and South Africa.



Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, speaking on behalf of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, highlighted progress in passing the Corporate Insolvency and Restructuring Acts (CIRA) 2020. She emphasized the transformative impact of the new companys law (Act 992) and the ongoing parliamentary review of the corporate insolvency bill.



Ms. Osei-Opare revealed that the CIRA 2020 bill had received cabinet approval and was now under consideration by parliament.



I am sure you would like to know where we are with regards with the CIRA bill. I can report that the bill under the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice has received cabinet approval and has been referred to parliament for consideration and I understand that very soon, the constitutional, legal and parliamentary affairs will start work on this important bill, she said.



Path to Chartered Institute Status



The passage of the CIRA 2020 bill would mark a significant milestone, transforming GARIA into a Chartered Institute of Restructuring and Insolvency Practitioners. This institute aims to elevate professional standards and expertise in the field, contributing to Ghana's legal framework and business practices.



The night served as a platform to raise funds for GARIA's future initiatives, including expanding training programmes, organizing more industry conferences, and supporting distressed businesses. A silent auction of the GARIA Journal allowed attendees to bid on exclusive items to support the association's cause.



GARIA Excellence Awards



The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the GARIA Excellence Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations making significant contributions to the industry. Notable sponsors and partners were acknowledged for their support.



Among the individuals on hand to present the awards were Mr. Kyle Kelhofer, Senior Country Manager, International Finance Corporation (IFC) presented some of the awards and Mrs. Jemima Oware, the Registrar of Companies.

Among these organisations recognized include MTN Ghana, Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC, Cocacola Bottling Company, Tampico Ghana, Office of the Registrar of Companies (ORC), Ghana Revenue Authority, Zeepay Ghana, B 5 Plus; Ernst and Young Ghana, BOST, Ghana Gas, PwC Ghana, KEK Insurance Brokers, KPMG Ghana, PMO Ghana, Securities And Exchange Commission (SEC), MODEC and Ecobank Ghana, Bank of Ghana (BoG) and the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC).



For the 2023 special recognition for outstanding contribution to insolvency practice, the awardees were Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo; Her Ladyship Justice Sophia A.B. Akuffo; Prof. Ebow Bondzi-Simpson; Audrey Naa Dei Kotey; and Adelaide Benneh Prempeh.



Certificates of partnership were presented to the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), Chartered Institute of Bankers Ghana (CIB Ghana) and the America Chamber of Commerce Ghana (AMCHAM).



Writers for the maiden Insolvency Journal were recognised for their contributions. They include Akua Essuman-Ocran; Dr. Eric Levenstein & Brandon Starr; Anthony Idigbe; Okorie Kalu & Nnamdi Ben-Igwenyi; Clara Amarteifio-Taylor & Esther Addei; Courage A. Asabagna; Elsie Addo Awadzi; Felix Addo, Dr. Eric Levenstein & Nastascha Harduth; Piers Marsden; Prof. Justice S.K. Date-Bah, and Prosper Melomey.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has incurred the wrath of the presiding judge, Justice Nicholas Mensah Abodakpi of the High Court in Accra (Human Rights Division) over what the judge described as abuse of its powers.



Justice Abodakpi, also described as scandalous depositions made by the OSP in its affidavit in answer to a human rights action filed by former Secretary to the dissolved Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM) Charles Cromwell Bissue.



The Court said, the OSP is abusing its power and putting up a posture that suggests that, it has Appellate jurisdiction over the High Court.



The other issue I want to state is, you have in your paragraphs 21, 22 and 23 of your affidavits in answer, which you are claiming is Misleading the Court to Injunct a non-Existent Warrant, the court observed.



Justice Abodakpi said, with regards to the OSPs paragraph 22, you went on to make certain depositions.



Are you saying the court doesnt have it own mind? Why are you saying all these things?, the Court wondered.



But, Seth Ansong, a Prosecutor from the OSP said those paragraphs are relevant to their case and ought to be part of the records for the trial.



Abuse of power



Interestingly, when asked by the court if he had read the ruling of the court earlier before making those depositions in paragraphs 21, 22 and 23, Seth Ansong said, not that I know of.



Justice Abodakpi who was unhappy with the situation and posture of the OSP, struck out those paragraphs and described it as scandalous.



Before a formal hearing of this case paragraphs 21, 22 and 23 are struck out because they scandalous, Justice Abodakpi said.



He added that the OSP has no appellate jurisdiction over the High Court. Whatever powers you have, you have no appellate jurisdiction over the High Court.



You cannot remonstrate and castigate the court over decisions it has made, Justice Abodakpi said.



Do you have a copy of the ruling? The Court asked.



But in his answer to the question, Seth Ansong, the Prosecutor from the OSP said, Not that I know of.



The answer from the OSP, provoked another backlash from the judge saying Then why are you saying those things when you havent read the ruling of the Court?



The OSP has no Appallent jurisdiction of the High Court. If you disagree (with a ruling of the Court) you go to Court of Appeal and appeal.



You are abusing your powers. You cannot castigate me (Judge). You havent seen the decision of the Court and you are saying those things?, the Judge hit back.



Misleading paragraphs



The following paragraphs contained in the OSPs affidavit in answer incurred the wrath of the court and same were struck out;



21 Paragraphs 28 to 29 of the affidavit in support are not denied. The first respondent further states that the applicant misled this Honourable Court into granting an ex

parte interim injunction against the first respondent on 15 June 2023, restraining the first respondent from enforcing a non-existent arrest warrant.



22 The first respondent notes that the applicant in paragraph 27 of his affidavit in support claims that he was reliably informed on the purported grant of the arrest warrant. The first respondent contends that this claim by the applicant clearly amounted to suspicion, and it is well settled that the rule of litigation game is evidence and not suspicions or conjectures.



23 It is thus regrettable, that although no court warrant ever issued or existed, this Honourable Court firmly handed down an order of interim injunction against the first respondent, on an exparte application, to restrain the respondent from discharging its statutory functions for a period of ten (10) days. It bears noting that a copy of the alleged warrant was never exhibited to the exparte application but the applicant had to bear the brunt of the judicial order all the same.



Trial sets for next year



Charles Bissue is seeking for the enforcement of his human rights from the Court.



Justice Abodakpi after hearing the parties on Wednesday, December 6, directed lawyers of the Applicant,(Charles Bissue), the OSP and the Attorney General to file their written submissions before the next sitting.



While State Attorneys from the AGs Office who were assigned the case to represent the Kaneshie district Court, are to file also their affidavit in answer before the next date.



EIB Networks Legal Affairs Correspondent, Murtala Inusah, reports that the case has been adjourned to January 15, 2024 for hearing when a video recording of certain interviews granted by the OSP would be played in open Court.



Subject matter



Charles Bissue who is seeking for the enforcement of his human rights is asking for the following relief from the Human Rights;

a). Quash or cancel the Arrest Warrant issued against the Applicant by the 2nd Respondent to the 1st Respondent.



b). Quash the 1st Respondents Notice, declaring the Applicant wanted.



c). Compel the 1st Respondent to comply with the provisions of L.I. 2374 by providing the Applicant with a copy of the Petitions, forming the basis of the investigations being conducted by the 1st Respondent in respect of which the Applicant is deemed to be a necessary person.



d). Prohibit the the 1st Respondent, pending the determination of Suit No. J/0328/2023, from applying for Arrest Warrants and hounding the Applicant in the name of investigations.

Source: Starrfm.com









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Some Namibians have been outraged after learning that President Hage Geingob's four children joined the government's delegation to the COP28 climate summit.



They were among six of the president's family members listed as part of Namibia's delegation in Dubai.



President Geingob's office on Monday confirmed his children travelled to the city, but denied claims that their trip was state-funded.



The office did not say how other family members were paid for.



"President Geingob and Madame Geingos (first lady) paid for the flights and accommodation expenses of their children," the Namibian Presidency posted on X on Monday.



"The Namibian public and the media should be rest assured that not a single cent of public funds has been spent on the children of the first couple."



The presidency added that the claims were "malicious and politically motivated" and intended to distract from the "excellent work" by President Geingob and the Namibian delegation at COP28.



But some Namibians have dismissed the presidency's response as unsatisfactory, saying it fails to prove that the travel of President's Geingob's children and his family members was privately funded.



Some critics have also asked the president to explain the role of his family members at COP28 and why they were listed on the government's delegation if their trip was privately funded.



"You guys really think we are dumb? Why would they be included in the delegates list if they ain't part of it? What is the relevance of them being in Dubai together with state delegates?" one Namibian replied on X.



"We anticipate a comprehensive report to be presented in [parliament]," said Namibian MP Inna Hengari.



She had earlier criticised the government for reportedly sponsoring the travel of the president's family, yet claiming it lacked funds to facilitate the travel of an MP and parliamentary official to COP28.



The outrage echoes wider criticism against African governments for sending large delegations to COP28, which some citizens say exhibits financial extravagance.



Some governments including Nigeria, Tanzania and Kenya have defended their actions by saying that many of the delegates are not state-funded as they are representing the media, civil society organisations and private institutions.

Source: BBC









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President Joe Biden delivers remarks Wednesday at the White House Tribal Nations Summit at the Department of the Interior in Washington. Evan Vucci/AP

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden said Wednesday he is willing to make significant compromises on border policy if Republicans will support sending more aid to Ukraine, an effort to jump-start faltering negotiations on a massive spending bill the White House wants Congress to pass by the end of the year.

The president said he would be willing to do significantly more, including changing policy  though he did not offer details on what changes he would endorse and called the policies Republicans have demanded, which include new asylum restrictions, extreme.

I am willing to make significant compromises on the border, Biden said during an address at the White House. We need to fix the broken border system. It is broken.

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Bidens comments come as some members of his party, including some Texas Democrats, have grown increasingly critical of pairing major changes to immigration policy with the foreign aid package.

Senate negotiations stalled last week on potential border measures that could be included in a $106 billion spending bill with aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, as well as more than $6 billion in border security funding. Senate Republicans were expected to block a Democratic effort to pass the foreign aid package without the border changes on Wednesday.

Biden accused the GOP of refusing to negotiate in good faith, saying Republicans are playing chicken with our national security as they have said they would vote against any spending bill that does not include a return to Trump-era border policies that would restrict asylum and require those migrants seeking refuge in the United States to remain in Mexico.

This has to be a negotiation, Biden said. Republicans think they can get everything they want without any bipartisan compromise. Thats not the answer. And now theyre willing to literally kneecap Ukraine on the battlefield and damage our national security in the process.

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn said this week that border policies are a price that has to be paid for the funding the president is seeking, and the Texas Republican said discussions around the legislation are not a traditional negotiation where we expect to come up with a bipartisan compromise on the border.

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I support funding for Ukraine, Cornyn said. I support funding for Israel. But this is an opportunity for us to force the Biden administration to do what they should have been doing all along.

Virtually every Texas Republican in Congress has said they will not support any more spending on Ukraine without major border changes, with most pushing for the spending bill to include legislation that passed the Republican-controlled House earlier this year.

That bill would greatly restrict who can claim asylum and how they can do it, in part by banning asylum to anyone who crosses the border between ports of entry and anyone who traveled through a third country on their way to the U.S. but did not seek asylum there.

The legislation also would significantly restrict who could be paroled into the U.S., barring the Homeland Security Department from allowing groups of migrants to enter the country, as the Biden administration has done for Ukrainians and Afghans, as well as some Venezuelans, Cubans, Haitians and Nicaraguans.

Several Texas Democrats have said they would oppose any bill that includes such asylum restrictions.

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Government will invest over GH400million in revamping the tourism sector next year, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has disclosed.



The amount, the minister explained, will be used to establish new tourist attraction sites such as museums, rehabilitate and upgrade existing attractions  including the Monkeys Sanctuary at Shai Hills, Mole National Park, Cape Coast and Elmina Castles, among many others across the country.



At a more micro-level, next year, the government, in conjunction with our development partners, will commit over GH400million to provide new tourist attractions in addition to renovating existing ones, the minister announced in his keynote address at the Ghana Tourism Investment Summit 2023 held in Accra.



The move, the minister noted, is in line with an urgent need for increased funding and investment to support sustainable tourism practices and modern infrastructure while positioning the sector to contribute significantly to socio-economic development.



The tourism sector  arts, culture and hospitality  is a critical sector for the economy. Apart from providing sustainable jobs, tourism is the third contributor to the countrys gross domestic product and is projected to become the number one contributor to GDP in the next five years, if given the needed support.

Source: B&FT









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An Iranian court has ordered the United States government to pay nearly $50 billion in damages for assassinating a top Iranian general, Qasem Soleimani, nearly four years ago, the judiciary said on Wednesday, December 6.



Judicial officials also demanded an apology for the killing of the Soleimani in a drone strike near Baghdad International Airport in January 2020.



Then-US president Donald Trump ordered a drone strike near Baghdad airport that killed Soleimani, 62, and his Iraqi lieutenant Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis on January 3, 2020.



Then US President Donald Trump justified the action by saying that Soleimani was actively planning attacks on American diplomats and service members in the region. Trump also claimed the veteran regime commander was already "directly and indirectly responsible for the deaths of millions of people.



Now the 55th Branch of the Legal Court of International Relations of the Tehran Justice Department has ruled against the US government and 41 other individuals and entities, ordering them to pay a sum of $49.77 billion in connection with the killing.



The court also ordered that the US government and the others held responsible for Soleimanis death should issue a formal apology, with instructions to publish it in a widely circulated newspaper.



The sentence comes after judicial officials had ruled in favor of more than 3,000 plaintiffs who had filed complaints claiming that they had suffered damages as a result of Soleimanis death.



Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian previously stated in January that nearly 60 US officials had been blacklisted by Tehran for their involvement in the assassination of Soleimani.



Both Irans President Ebrahim Raisi and Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei have repeatedly vowed revenge for the killing of Soleimani.



Since Soleimanis death, a member of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard has been charged with planning to assassinate John Bolton, the former US National Security Advisor, as retaliation for the military commanders killing. Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was also identified as a potential target in the same plot.



Qassem Soleimani played a crucial role in Iran's external military and intelligence operations, overseeing the support and organization of militant proxy forces, including Lebanese Hezbollah and Iraqi Shiite militia groups engaged in hostilities against US forces in the region.









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Chief Executive Officer of the InterCity State Transport Corporation, Nana Akomea has shot a reply to Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, a former flagbearer aspirant of the New Patriotic Party and currently an independent candidate, over some comments attributed to the latter regarding the New Patriotic Party's parliamentary primaries in orphan constituencies.



The New Patriotic Party, over the weekend, held its parliamentary primaries electing people to represent the party in the orphan constituencies across the country.



The primaries saw some notable names like Eugene Arhin, the Director of Communications at the Presidency, winning the Awutu Senya West constituency; Pius Enam Hadzide, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority, winning Asuogyaman constituency and Sammi Awuku, the Director General of the National Lottery Authority, unanimously declared NPP parliamentary candidate for Akuapem North constituency.



The Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Nana Ama Dokua Asiamah-Adjei also beat former Deputy Chief Executive of MASLOC, Alberta Afia Akoto, in the Okaikwei North primary and the Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye secured a landslide victory to represent the New Patriotic Party in Ledzokuku constituency in the 2024 parliamentary elections.



Following the elections, the leader for Movement for Change, Alan Kyerematen is said to have complimented the New Patriotic Party saying the party's orphan constituency parliamentary elections were transparent and fair but his response has attracted criticisms.



Contributing to Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" panel discussion programme Tuesday morning, Nana Akomea questioned the logic in Alan's statements looking at the fact that he resigned from the party claiming he didn't find their super delegates elections credible and believing it would affect their main presidential election held on Saturday, November 4, 2023.



Alan, for this reason, parted ways with the New Patriotic Party to form his own movement represented by a butterfly symbol and to compete for the presidential seat in the 2024 general elections.



To Nana Akomea, Alan's comment on the NPP orphan constituency parliamentary election is a contradiction of his stand on the party's presidential election that saw Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia elected as flagbearer.



" . . The 200,000 people who voted on November 4 is the same 200,000 divided into constituency, constituency; the same people, the same delegates. So, you can't say that they didn't do well in the other election but this particular one went well. Where from this? Let's disregard it," he replied.



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Nana Akomea has accepted an apology from Professor Smart Sarpong, a Senior Research Fellow at the Kumasi Technical University, over his statements regarding who becomes Running Mate to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.



The New Patriotic Party awaits its Running Mate following their election of Vice President Dr. Bawumia as flagbearer leading them into the 2024 elections.



Though nobody has been chosen yet, there appears to be a strong lobbying for some persons to be considered for the position.



Names like Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Energy Minister, Akosua Frema-Osei Opare, Chief of Staff, Henry Kwabena Kokofu, Chief Executive of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) among others have cropped up.



Speaking on Peace FM's flagship programme "Kokrokoo" days ago, Prof. Smart Sarpong appealed to Nana Akomea, who plays a key role in the Bawumia campaign team, not to bother himself with being appointed to partner Dr. Bawumia.



Although Nana Akomea hasn't expressed desire in becoming a Running Mate, Prof. Smart Sarpong, in his submissions, sounded like the STC boss may be interested in the position and begged him to abstain from it.



Prof. Smart Sarpong Cautions



Now that both the NDC and NPP have selected their flagbearers, discussions about running mates will be a priority. As of now, both Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and former President John Dramani Mahama have been contemplating their potential running mates.



Some of the names being considered are interesting and have potential. Yesterday, my uncle, Kwesi Pratt, expressed his happiness that Honorable Dr. Kwabena Kokofu has been mentioned among the potential running mates.



But for my elder brother, Nana Akomea, I would like to appeal to you; he is my elder brother and when we, as a family, convened to discuss his readiness, we did not agree. His time is not now. We gathered as the Nsutam Development Committee. Although he is a fine gentleman with great potential, the timing is not right for him. Therefore, I urge them to leave him for us; his time has not yet come, he said.



Apology



But the Professor has made a U-turn apologizing for his statements stating he has come under intense criticisms and finds it appropriate to render an apology to Nana Akomea and the people of Nsutam.



His apology was delivered on his behalf through a message he sent to the sit-in host of 'Kokrokoo' show, Nana Yaw Kesseh, during the Tuesday, December 5, edition of 'Kokrokoo'.



Nana Akomea, receiving the information on the show, forgave the Professor on behalf of the Nsutam Development Committee and himself.



Setting the record straight, he stated that there has been no meeting by the Committee where they urged him not to accept a Running Mate offer as claimed by Prof. Smart Sarpong.



"In the first place, I have never told any Nsutam Development Committee that I want to be a Running Mate for them to even hold a meeting and also no Committee has had any meeting on it," he told Nana Yaw Kesseh.





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Professor Smart Sarpong, a Senior Research Fellow at the Kumasi Technical University, has commended the Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, on his return to the parliamentary ticket of the New Patriotic Party.



Dr. Okoe Boye, over the weekend, secured a landslide victory to represent the New Patriotic Party in Ledzokuku constituency in the 2024 parliamentary elections.



Dr. Boye, who lost the Ledzokuku seat in Parliament during the 2020 election, garnered 902 votes to beat his closest contender, Collins Nii Ashitey Ollenu, who got 354.



The other contestants, Clifford Martey and Ibrahim Adjei obtained 199 and 180 votes respectively out of a total 1635 valid votes cast.



Speaking on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo", Prof. Smart Sarpong was elated that the NHIA boss has been given another chance to compete in the parliamentary race.



"I applaud Dr. Okoe Boye. He has been invited onto the scene to come and correct whatever went wrong in the last elections," he remarked.





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Bernard Allotey Jacobs has reinforced his support for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to win next year's presidential elections.



Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, following his election as NPP flagbearer, has embarked on a 'Thank You' tour to regions in the northern sector.



The Vice President, expressing his gratitude to the Chiefs and people in the North, was met with a warm reception from the Region.



During his visit to Damongo, the Overlord of Gonja, Jire Kuunu-bi I enskinned Dr. Bawumia as "Konukolewura" meaning "Chief of Unity" in recognition of his character traits as a unifier.



At another event, the Paramout Chief of Wala Traditional Council, Naa Alhaji Fuseini Seidu Pelpuo VI honoured Dr. Bawumia with the royal title "Meyiri" meaning "builder of the house" and this is in recognition of his efforts and commitment to supporting communities.



In one of his visits too, the Chief of Wangara community, Masaba Fanyinama III also enskinned the Vice President as "Benkelemasa" which means "the one who unites".



Assessing all these titles and honors conferred on the Vice President, the former NDC Central Regional Chairman, Allotey Jacobs is convinced that Dr. Bawumia has a great influence in the Northern Region and, to him, this is a good sign for the New Patriotic Party going into the 2024 elections.



"For the Northern Region, Dr. Bawumia will cause surprises," he briefly commented.



Watch video below





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Prof. Smart Sarpong has taken a swipe at Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, over his remarks concerning the Judiciary and how the courts are treating his cases.



The Special Prosecutor, at a press conference, complained bitterly about court dismissing his corruption cases and warned should this trend continue, it may spell doom for the nation.



Indeed I have had several calls from well-meaning lawyers admonishing me that they have heard talk that our friends who have been elevated to the bench and presiding over cases in court do not take very kindly to criticism, especially of the public calling out variety as we do. And that if the office persists in the media releases, the judges will gang up against the office and throw out all our cases.



It will be absolutely of no good should it be the case that the OSP is set against the judiciary or that the judiciary is against the OSP. That will surely spell disastrous consequences for this republic, especially in the fight against corruption to the glee of corrupt persons, he expressed his frustrations.



He added; I do not intend to sound as though Im predicting doom but we are facing doom. With this development, it will not be long, [before] a suspected murderer or armed robber will boldly walk to court with the unthinkable prayer that the court should injunct law enforcement agencies from investigating him.



But Prof. Smart Sarpong disagrees with the approach by the Special Prosecutor in addressing his concerns.



He sought to remind lawyer Kissi Agyebeng of the Act that establishes his office, stressing his office is not above the laws of Ghana, hence if he files a case and it is dismissed; he has several options to seek appeal or review.



He cautioned Mr. Agyebeng that he is on a slippery road and should reverse his steps.



"Fundamentally, expressing frustration on grounds of sending your case to court and the outcome of the court is unfortunate...We have all set the foundation very clear that where he is treading is slippery. Attacking Judges and the judicial system is very slippery.



"Having set that platform and I'm sure all the commentaries are laying that foundation, if Kissi Agyebeng is listening to us, he should notice and I believe he knows that the Act that sets up the office of the Special Prosecutor didn't set it up to come and be above the law of the Republic. So, that office will have to operate under the law", he said during Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" programme Wednesday morning.



The Senior Research Fellow at the Kumasi Technical University advised the Special Prosecutor to ensure "every step he takes is consistent with the law".





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Observed Gaia DR3 color-magnitude diagram of selected members of the Southern Beehive cluster. Credit: arXiv (2023). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2311.16991

An international team of astronomers has performed the first asteroseismic study of the young open cluster NGC 2516, better known as the Southern Beehive. Results of the study, published Nov. 28 on the pre-print server arXiv, unveil crucial information regarding the properties and stellar content of this cluster.

Open clusters (OCs), formed from the same giant molecular cloud, are groups of stars loosely gravitationally bound to each other. So far, more than 1,000 of them have been discovered in the Milky Way, and scientists are still looking for more, hoping to find a variety of these stellar groupings. Expanding the list of known galactic open clusters and studying them in detail could be crucial for improving our understanding of the formation and evolution of our galaxy.

Discovered almost three centuries ago, the Southern Beehive is a bright and young OC in the southern sky in the constellation Carina. The cluster is located some 1,300 light years away and has a near-solar metallicity, while its mass is estimated to be at least 100,000 solar masses.

Although many observations of the Southern Beehive have been conducted, no asteroseismic study of this cluster has been conducted yet. That is why a group of astronomers led by Gang Li of the Catholic University Leuven (KU Leuven) in Belgium has employed NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), ESA's Gaia satellite, and the Fiber-fed Extended Range Optical Spectrograph (FEROS) at ESO's La Silla Observatory in Chile, to perform photometric and spectroscopic observations of this OC.

The main aim of this observational campaign was to detect gravity-mode oscillations in the cluster's early-type main-sequence members.

"We selected the 301 member stars with no more than mild contamination as our sample. We analyzed the full-frame image (FFI) light curves, which provide nearly continuous observations in the first and third years of TESS monitoring. We also collected high-resolution spectra using FEROS for the g-mode pulsators, with the aim to assess the Gaia effective temperatures and gravities, and to prepare for future seismic modeling," the researchers explained.

The observations conducted by Li's team revealed a variety of different types of variable stars in the Southern Beehive. They identified 24 g-mode pulsators (Gamma Doradus or Slowly Pulsating B [SPB] stars), 35 Delta Scuti pulsators, 147 stars with surface modulations, five eclipsing binaries, and three post-main-sequence stars.

For the Delta Scuti stars, the astronomers found that their amplitude spectra are well-ordered when sorted by temperature. It turned out that in cooler stars, a series of frequencies at approximately 21.07/day were observed, while the hotter p-mode pulsators display another series of frequency peaks of around 33/day.

Furthermore, the study found that Gamma Doradus stars in the cluster have internal rotation rates as high as 50% of their critical value, whereas the SPB stars exhibit rotation rates close to their critical rate. The researchers noted that this is significantly faster than the average value for those observed for single pulsators.

The collected data also allowed the team to derive the age and extinction value at 550 nmthey were calculated to be 102 million years and 0.53 mag, respectively.

More information: Gang Li et al, Asteroseismology of the young open cluster NGC 2516 I: Photometric and spectroscopic observations, arXiv (2023). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2311.16991 Journal information: arXiv

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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

What do Starbucks, McDonald's, Target and Amazon have in common, other than being some of the biggest corporations in the world?

Boycotts.

At some point in the last year, each of them has been the target of a consumer boycott, either on social media with hashtags or in person with protesters outside their doors.

The reasons vary: ire over Starbucks and McDonald's perceived support for Israel during the Israel-Hamas war; opposition to Amazon's tax avoidance and union-busting tactics; conservative backlash over Bud Light's social media partnership with a transgender influencer.

Boycotts are a tried and true strategy, one of the few ways consumers have of making their voices heard, using the one tool they havetheir walletto let corporations know what they think by dealing some damage to their bottom line.

But do boycotts actually work? Is voting with your wallet as powerful as consumers hope it is? According to Yakov Bart, associate professor of marketing at Northeastern University, the success of a boycott often comes down to the brand, not the consumers.

"It more likely has to do something with the brands chosen as the target," Bart says. "When the brands are more easily replaceable, then they're more vulnerable to a consumer boycott."

The more market power a company has, the more pervasive it and its products are, the more challenging it is for consumers to make a dent in its profits with a boycott. The inherent challenge most boycotts face is that every company creates products and designs brands to make them seem indispensable to consumers in their daily lives, Bart says. But companies like Amazon, due to its global reach and deep integration into the fabric of modern life, pose an even greater challenge.

"It's easy to say or put #boycottAmazon on social media," Bart says. "It's much harder to reduce your dependency on Amazon, which for a lot of people is substantial these days."

Unlike unions for workers, there's no consumer union helping to keep people organized, so it's naturally hard for boycott movements to pick up large-scale momentum.

"As long as you occasionally go out to buy those brands because it's convenient for you, then clearly the boycott is not going to work," Bart says. "If it doesn't translate to mass behavior of consumers actually switching away from brands, then it doesn't work."

Consumers have to choose not to buy a product, but that choice isn't easy for people who may buy certain products because of their price and convenience or a lack of other options in their area. In the past, that's been a challenge for boycotts against Starbucks, Bart says. In major cities, there is no shortage of other coffee shops, but outside cities or even in smaller cities, Starbucks is often the most convenient, readily available option.

Efforts like the boycotts against Bud Light and Target, which resulted in plummeting sales for both companies, are successful less because of how effective anti-LGBTQ political organization is and more because those companies exist in markets that are saturated with options, Bart says. They're the perfect targets for a boycott.

"How difficult is it to shop at Walmart instead of Target?" Bart says. "Maybe it's not so difficult. How difficult is it to switch from Bud Light to another light beer, of which there are so many and they're so accessible?"

Just because certain companies are less susceptible to boycotts doesn't mean consumers can't have an impact through boycotts. But it can result in a psychological paradox similar to the one that exists for some people with voting: If people think their vote doesn't matter, they are less inclined to vote. If enough people start to think that way, then it does actually start to have an impact.

"Bud Light losing a quarter of its sales, Target losing billions in market capthese are tangible dents to companies," Bart says. "You could think that whether you're going to order from Amazon today or you're going to walk out and buy something at a local store is not going to change how well Jeff Bezos is going to sleep tonight. But if millions of consumers are going to take the same action, then of course there is a material effect on the company's bottom line."

This story is republished courtesy of Northeastern Global News news.northeastern.edu.
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Image of a bundengan, a portable shelter woven from bamboo, which is worn by Indonesian duck herders who often outfit it to double as a musical instrument. Credit: Gea Oswah Fatah Parikesit

A bundengan wears many hatsand is one too. This portable shelter woven from bamboo has protected Indonesian duck herders from the sun and rain for centuries. Able to comfortably balance on the wearer's head, a bundengan is equipped with a visor that curves around the side to meet at a long back. A more surprising, but no less practical, feature is the collection of strings and bamboo bars added in to produce music. Duck herders fill the hours spent tending to ducks sitting underneath their outfitted shelter, playing their shield as an instrument.

Over the years, bundengan musicians learned that their bamboo music-maker sounds better when played in the rain. Gea Oswah Fatah Parikesit and their team at Universitas Gadjah Mada investigated the physics behind this phenomenon and are presenting their work on the water-dependent acoustic properties of the bundengan Dec. 6, as part of Acoustics 2023, running Dec. 48 at the International Convention Center Sydney.

The bundengan is constructed by weaving bamboo splits, which are covered by overlapping bamboo culm sheaths with ropes to secure everything in place.

"Our team discovered that the key to the sound quality is in the bamboo culm sheaths," said Parikesit. "To understand the physics of the sheaths, we first had to understand its biological context. When the sheaths were still attached at the bamboo stem, they gradually change shape: First, they are curled because they need to protect the younger parts of the stem, but afterward, they have a more planar shape because they no longer need to protect the older part of the stem."

When wet, the culm sheaths seek to return to their curled form, but tied down in their planar formation, they instead press into each other. The resulting tension allows the sheaths to vibrate together.

Parikesit will continue investigating the physics of the bamboo culm to develop new musical instruments that, like the bundengan, perform best when wet.

"As an Indonesian, I have extra motivation because the bundengan is a piece of our cultural heritage," said Parikesit. "I am trying my best to support the conservation and documentation of the bundengan and other Indonesian endangered instruments."
Intel is losing the ARM(s) race and it is by a long shot.

Inside reports suggest Microsoft is thinking of using "ARM Inside" chips for more Windows laptops, slowly replacing the "Intel Inside" it has opted to use for decades.

Microsoft was noted to be increasing production of Windows laptops with ARM CPUs in a bid to follow Apple's example on Mac, 9to5mac reported.

Spreading from the smartphone market, ARM CPUs will soon be seen in more Windows laptops as Microsoft is moving towards non-Intel processors for remote access to its cloud services.

Microsoft had been working to make Windows devices and its applications accessible in the cloud, especially its cloud-based Chromebooks.

Chromebooks are currently the biggest revenue generator for Windows-based devices for their affordability, low hardware requirements, and cloud-integrated apps.

ARM CPUs Vs Intel CPUs

The question remains, however, is why many of the top tech brands are suddenly shifting from the long-established Intel processors.

While Intel chips remain the best option for intense processing and multi-task computing, ARM CPUs do not share the same heating issues as Intel does.

ARM chips have also been known to work faster on single specific tasks, perfect for laptops operating on cloud drive apps.

Another factor is the slow pace of development in Intel, a long frustration for Apple with its Mac upgrades entirely dependent on Intel CPU releases.

Arm Holdings, the manufacturer of ARM chips, produces new upgrades every year. Last year, it sold 30 billion chips to bigwigs like Apple, Nvidia, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Samsung, and even Intel.

Also Read: How to Fix Lagging Chromebook: 5 Tips to Improve System Speed

Windows Devices with ARM Processors

As of writing, only a limited number of devices running on Windows also use ARM chips.

However, several performance and compatibility issues are noted on these devices due to ARM's single-processing output.

This means certain hardware, games, and apps designed for Windows 11 Arm-based PCs will only work for the same processor brand.

Games that use OpenGL 3.3 and up, or have an "anti-cheat" extension may also be unable to run smoothly on ARM computers.

Windows customization is also a nightmare as only a few software can run on ARM processors.

Microsoft, intends to solve these problems by focusing more on ARM chips in developing future Windows software for laptops.

Related Article: Microsoft Retires Anti-Virus Tool Amid AI-Powered Hackings. Here's What You Need to Know
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Ejecta gravel in an outcrop about 60 kilometers west-northwest of the impact site. Credit: Kerry Sieh

A multi-institutional team of geoscientists, geologists and mineralogists has found what they believe to be the site of the crater formed from the Bolaven extraterrestrial impact. In their paper published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the group describes their multi-year study of tektites and other ejecta believed to have been associated with the Bolaven extraterrestrial impact in southern Laos.

Prior research has suggested that approximately 800,000 years ago, a large meteorite struck what is now a part of the Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos. The strike is believed to be the last major impact on Earth by an asteroid. It is also believed that when the impact occurred, a massive amount of ejecta was strewn across parts of southern Laos and eastern Thailand.

But oddly, the location of the impact has never been positively identifiedthe crater, researchers believe, has been hidden by tree growth, a blanket of soil or both. In this new effort, the research team attempted to find the location of the impact by inferring its position using characteristics of tektites.

The researchers began their effort by studying the results of other studies on the impact or its crater. They became convinced that the crater had not been found because it had been filled with lava. During the years 2015 to 2023, the research team conducted field research, collecting tektites believed to be from the Bolaven impact and marking on maps where they were found. They found not only small samples that would fit in the hand, but large deposits up to 9 meters thick.

The maps indicated a radial pattern of thickening ejecta that converged around a single plateaua clear indication, they claim, of the site where the asteroid crashed into the Earth. More research is required, most likely at or near the vicinity of the proposed impact sitebut the research team is confident they have found it, calling their results "all but definitive."

Correction note (12/6/2023): The impact occurred not 80,000 but 800,000 years ago.

More information: Kerry Sieh et al, Proximal ejecta of the Bolaven extraterrestrial impact, southern Laos, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2310351120 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences

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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

COP28 is approaching the end of the first week and the kings, presidents and prime ministers have flown off. Now, hundreds of seasoned climate diplomats must get down to the tough job of negotiating a text that everyone can agree on. Adnan Amin, who as chief executive officer of COP28 is one of Sultan Al-Jaber's most senior lieutenants, said in an interview there are several areas that are likely to test negotiators over the rest of the summit.

The tussle over whether the final agreement should commit to a "phase down" or "phase out" fossil fuels is prominent as always and different formulations are currently being shopped. But Amin highlighted two other areas, both key concerns of the world's poorest and most climate-vulnerable countries, where consensus will be challenging: finance and adaptation.

Rich nations were supposed to provide $100 billion a year in climate finance for emerging economies starting in 2020, a milestone they appear to have finally reached two years late. The debate this year will lay the groundwork for a key decision due at COP29 on a new target for financing.

"To a lot of developing countries, the finance outcome has become about the restoration of trust in the process," Amin said. "So the developing world will want to see some commitments in the agreement on finance." It's not just about getting to a number, according to Amin, who said developing nations want "clarity" on solutions to raise the trillions required to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.

Developing countries will also need financial support to become more resilient to the extreme weather caused by climate change. Amin said there's a lot of work to be done on the issue, known as "adaptation" in climate diplomacy parlance.

"We need to give some level of seriousness because of the impacts that countries are facing right now," he said. "It's money, it's technology, it's different forms of international cooperation."

But some Western countries aren't keen to offer more without commitments from developing nations to move away from dirty fuels. More than 120 countries are on board with a pledge to triple renewables deployment globally by 2030, though some of the biggest polluters, including China and India, haven't agreed because they want softer language on fossil fuels.

"The Presidency understands that the language on fossil fuels is one of the elements they're going to be judged on," said Steven Guilbeault, Canada's climate minister, in an interview. "If we were to achieve that it would be historic."

COP28 Director-General Ambassador Majid Al Suwaidi said in an interview that the final language needs to "meet this test of the 1.5C" global warming goal set out in the Paris Agreement. "We know that [addressing] fossil fuels is part of that," he said. "The pressure is on negotiators to show us what they can deliver."

Amin said he has "a very high degree of confidence" that the pledge to triple renewable deployment will be in the final text. There are a few assurances some countries still need related to trade and protectionism, he said.

A draft negotiating text released early Tuesday would call upon parties to take further action "tripling renewable energy capacity globally" and "doubling the global average annual rate of energy-efficiency improvements" by the end of the decadeboth compared to a 2022 baseline.

The COP can be a process for harnessing and accelerating the takeoff in renewables that's already happening, Amin said. "The COP needs to capture that momentum," he said. "It needs to help organize it and needs to give political momentum behind it."

2023 Bloomberg News.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

The fracturing and friction of coffee beans during grinding generates electricity that causes coffee particles to clump together and stick to the grinder. Researchers report Dec. 6 in the journal Matter that coffee beans with higher internal moisture produce less static electricity, which means less coffee is wasted and there is less mess to clean up.

This effect can be simulated by adding a small amount of water to beans immediately before grinding them. The team also showed that grinding with a splash of water produces more consistent and intense espresso.

"Moisture, whether it's residual moisture inside the roasted coffee or external moisture added during grinding, is what dictates the amount of charge that is formed during grinding," says senior author Christopher Hendon, a computational materials chemist at the University of Oregon.

"Water not only reduces static electricity and therefore reduces mess as you're grinding, but it can also make a major impact on the intensity of the beverage and, potentially, the ability to access higher concentrations of favorable flavors."

These improvements to coffee extraction could have massive economic implications for the coffee industry, which is worth $343.2 billion or 1.5% of the US gross domestic product, the researchers say. "Pushing the concentration up by 10%15% for the same dry coffee mass has huge implications for saving money and improving quality," says Hendon.

That coffee grinding produces static electricity has long been known within the coffee industry, where this electrification causes clumping and occasional zaps, but little was known about how different coffee attributes contribute to this phenomenon or how it impacts brewing. To identify factors associated with static electricity generation during coffee grinding, Hendon teamed up with volcanologists who study similar electrification processes during volcanic eruptions.

This video shows how coffee behaves when grinding with and without a splash of water. Credit: Joshua Mendez Harper.

"During eruption, magma breaks up into lots of little particles that then come out of the volcano in this big plume, and during that whole process, those particles are rubbing against each other and charging up to the point of producing lightning," says first author and volcanologist Joshua Mendez Harper at Portland State University. "In a simplistic way, it's similar to grinding coffee, where you're taking these beans and reducing them to fine powder."

The researchers measured the amount of static electricity produced when they ground different commercially and in-house roasted coffee beans that varied by factors including country of origin, processing method (natural, washed, or decaffeinated), roast color, and moisture content. They also compared the impact of grinding coarseness on the amount of electricity produced.

There was no association between static electricity and the coffee's country of origin or processing method, but the researchers did find associations between electrification and water content, roast color, and particle size. Less electricity was produced when coffee had a higher internal moisture content and when coffee was ground at a coarser setting.

Light roasts produced less charge, and this charge was more likely to be positive, while darker roastswhich also tend to be driercharged negatively and produced more overall charge. The researchers also showed that dark roast coffees produce much finer particles than light roasts when ground at the same setting.

Next, the team tested whether grinding with water changed the way espresso is brewed. When they compared espresso made with identical coffee beans ground either with or without a splash of water, they found that grinding with water resulted in a longer extraction time and a stronger brew. Grinding with water also resulted in espresso shots that were more similar from shot to shot, overcoming a major hurdle for baristas and industrial coffee brewers.

Though they only tested espresso, the researchers say these benefits would apply to many other brewing methods. "The central material benefit of adding water during grinding is that you can pack the bed more densely because there's less clumping," says Hendon.

"Espresso is the worst offender of this, but you would also see the benefit in brew formats where you pour water over the coffee or in small percolation systems like a stovetop Bialetti. Where you're not going to see a benefit during brewing is for methods like the French press, where you submerge the coffee in water."

The researchers plan to follow up with more investigations into how to prepare the perfect coffee. "Now that we know what grind settings to use to make reproducible espresso, we can start to try to understand what factors give rise to sensory differences in coffee taste," says Hendon.

Their work also has implications beyond the daily brew, as the electrification of granular materials is an active area of research in material science, geophysics, and engineering.

"It's sort of like the start of a jokea volcanologist and a coffee expert walk into a bar and then come out with a paper," says Mendez Harper, "but I think there are a lot more opportunities for this sort of collaboration, and there's a lot more to know about how coffee breaks, how it flows as particles, and how it interacts with water. These investigations may help resolve parallel issues in geophysicswhether it's landslides, volcanic eruptions, or how water percolates through soil."

More information: Joshua Mendez Harper et al, Moisture Controlled Triboelectrification During Coffee Grinding, Matter (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.matt.2023.11.005. www.cell.com/matter/fulltext/S2590-2385(23)00568-4 Journal information: Matter
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Production analyst and U. of I. student worker Josh Weiner enters information into the SPOTLITE database, which documents any incident where police use firearms, including those with non-fatal outcomes and any other use of force that results in a death. SPOTLITE is a project of the Cline Center for Advanced Social Research and an interdisciplinary team of University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign experts. Credit: Fred Zwicky/University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The Cline Center for Advanced Social Research and an interdisciplinary team of University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign experts have expanded upon their statewide registry on the use of lethal force by police officers in the state of Illinois to include national data.

The Systematic Policing Oversight Through Lethal-Force Incident Tracking Environment project, called "SPOTLITE," identified more than 23,000 incidents of police uses of lethal force in the U.S. during the years 20142021. SPOTLITE includes any incident in which police used a firearmincluding those with nonfatal outcomesas well as any other use of force that resulted in a death.

The interdisciplinary team of scholars and experts spearheading the SPOTLITE project includes Scott Althaus, the director of the Cline Center and also the Merriam Professor of Political Science at Illinois; Joseph Bajjalieh, a senior research manager at the Cline Center; Jay Jennings, a research scientist at the Cline Center; Michael Martin, a senior research coordinator at the Cline Center; Jennifer K. Robbennolt, the Alice Curtis Campbell Professor of Law at Illinois; Ajay Singh, a postdoctoral researcher at the Cline Center; and dozens of undergraduate and graduate student researchers who have worked since 2017 to compile the database.

SPOTLITE seeks to improve police accountability and rebuild the public perception of law enforcement in the U.S., the researchers said.

"More than a thousand Americans die in encounters with law enforcement every year, and some studies have suggested that as many as twice that number have probably survived being shot by police," Althaus said. "But in most areas of the country we don't really know how many shooting incidents might have occurred that didn't result in deaths."

"Researchers have been clamoring for more comprehensive and reliable data," Robbennolt said. "SPOTLITE will allow researchers to look at trends and patterns across the country with an eye toward developing a better understanding of the factors that influence when lethal force is used."

After analyzing SPOTLITE data from 2014 to 2021, the researchers found that the number of police uses of lethal force incidents nationwide has been increasing. In 2014, the year of Michael Brown's death in Ferguson, Missouri, there were 2,443 incidents across the U.S. By 2021, there were 3,474 incidents, a 42% increase from 2014.

SPOTLITE researchers also discovered that 28% of the 3,143 counties in the U.S. had zero police use of lethal force incidents. By contrast, 50% of all police uses of lethal force in the U.S. over this period occurred within just 117 counties nationwide.

Last year, the researchers identified more than twice as many police-involved uses of lethal force in the state of Illinois than previously reported by the Illinois State Police, for a total of 694 lethal force incidents involving 734 civilians during the period 20142021. SPOTLITE also provided an authoritative accounting of the racial and ethnic characteristics of the civilians involved in those Illinois incidents.

Future editions of the SPOTLITE national registry will document incidents up to the present day and include details such as whether injuries or fatalities were reported, which law enforcement agencies were involved, and the racial characteristics of civilians involved in these incidents, the researchers said.

The SPOTLITE project originates from calls for police accountability and reform in the aftermath of fatal police shootings involving unarmed Black citizens.

"Communities throughout the U.S. have been pushing for reforms to address racial inequities in police uses of force," Jennings said. "But without high-quality data to authoritatively document lethal force incidents involving police, it's been difficult to have a productive conversation about reform efforts."

SPOTLITE will afford communities throughout the U.S. access to data necessary to achieve evidenced-based police reforma pivotal first step in addressing long-standing concerns about racial inequities in community policing, Althaus said.

"The SPOLITE project is nonpartisan and nonadvocacy. Its purpose is to provide high-quality data that will enrich conversations around the country about improving accountability between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve," Althaus said. "The SPOTLITE dashboard is set up to empower communities to do their own research on each incident. These records also allow communities to review the original news reporting that document these incidents."

"All SPOTLITE data are open to the public and can be downloaded for further analysis," Jennings said. "Our goals are to provide citizens and researchers with the highest quality data and to be able to inform conversations about when, where and whether change is needed, so that those conversations can move forward with the best possible information."

There are about 18,000 law enforcement jurisdictions in the U.S., which equates to "18,000 different approaches to policing tactics, training and policy being conducted independently from one another without the ability to assess which are succeeding at reducing unnecessary uses of lethal force, and which are doing poorly," Althaus said.

Instead of relying on the smattering of data supplied by law enforcement agencies, the SPOTLITE database culled information from local news reports of police shooting incidents to provide initial details of what happened where and to whom. The researchers also leveraged artificial intelligence and machine learning to augment the work of human analysts.

Current data-gathering efforts at the state and federal levels are "insufficient and incomplete," Singh said, with the FBI planning only to release aggregated national data that doesn't allow communities to find information on their local policing agencies, or to find records of specific incidents.

"With SPOTLITE we are able to provide communities across the U.S. with localized information on police uses of lethal force that can be found nowhere else," he said.
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Green mounds of stromatolites flourish at the bottom of a lagoon in Argentina's Puna de Atacama. Credit: Brian Hynek

CU Boulder geologist Brian Hynek has helped to document what may be a unique kind of ecosystem on Earthand a possible window into the earliest stages of life on this planet 3.5 billion years ago, and even life on ancient Mars.

This alien environment, which was previously unknown to science, is made up of a system of lagoons surrounded by vast salt plains. They sit in Argentina's Puna de Atacama, a high plateau desert more than 12,000 feet above sea level. It's among the driest environments on Earth. Here, rain rarely, if ever, falls, and sunlight beats down unforgivingly, creating an environment few plants or animals can survive.

But, according to new research, the lagoons are home to something else: Vibrant displays of stromatolites, or complex microbial communities that form giant mounds of rock as they grow, a bit like corals building a reef millimeter by millimeter.

Hynek's preliminary observations suggest that these communities may resemble stromatolites that existed during a period in Earth's history called the early Archaean, when oxygen was almost nonexistent in the atmosphere.

"This lagoon could be one of the best modern examples of the earliest signs of life on Earth," said Hynek, professor in the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP). "It's unlike anything I've ever seen or, really, like anything any scientist has ever seen."

Hynek and Maria Farias, a microbiologist and co-founder of PUNABIO SA Environmental Consulting, will present their findings Dec. 11 at the 2023 meeting of the American Geophysical Union in San Francisco.

The researchers hope to return to the lagoon soon to confirm their initial results. Hynek called finding this alien environment "the biggest eureka moment I've ever had in my life."

"It's just amazing that you can still find undocumented things like that on our planet," he said.

Credit: University of Colorado at Boulder

Eureka moment

Getting to the lagoon was an adventure in and of itself.

Through his career, Hynek has traveled to some of the most extreme environments on Earth to understand how life might thrive on alien planets and moons. He's climbed to the top of the world's tallest active volcano, Ojos del Salado on the border between Argentina and Chile, and has traveled to Antarctica to search for fallen meteorites.

In April 2022, Farias brought him to one of her study sites in northwest Argentina. To get there, the scientists drove roughly nine hours down a dirt road. They stayed in a village of about 35 people who rely on a single spring for water. On his last night in the village, Hynek was perusing satellite images of the surrounding desert and saw something strange: what looked like a network of lagoons tens of miles away.

Intrigued, he and Farias drove as far as they could, then hiked several miles in the blazing sun.

"In some places, we were sinking up to our knees in salt slush," he said.

When they arrived at the lagoon, however, Hynek immediate knew that they had found something special.

The network of 12 lagoons stretched over roughly 25 acres and was ringed by barren mountains in the distance. Beneath its crystal clear waters, Hynek could see giant mounds of green growth, some 15 feet wide and several feet high. They were stromatolites, but unlike any he had ever seen.

Hynek used a rock hammer to crack open a stromatolite formation, revealing its pink center. More stromatolites grow under the water nearby. Credit: Brian Hynek

Running out of time

Stromatolites, in general, refer to a range of microbial communities that are associated with layers of rock. They exist on Earth today, including off the coast of the Bahamas, but modern stromatolites tend to be relatively small. They also grow passively by trapping grains of sand and other detritus floating in the ocean.

Ancient stromatolites, in contrast, could stretch to 20 feet tall. They actively pulled in calcium and carbon dioxide from the surrounding water, causing minerals to precipitate around them.

The mounds in the Atacama lagoons looked a lot more like some of those Archaean communities than anything alive on Earth today.

Their rocky layers were constructed mostly from gypsum, a common mineral in many stromatolite fossils but absent in almost all modern examples of stromatolites. Biologically, they were made up of an outer layer of photosynthetic microbes called cyanobacteria and a pinkish core rich in archaeasingle-celled organisms often found in extreme environments on Earth.

"We think these mounds are actually growing from the microbes, which is what was happening in the oldest ones," Hynek said.

Why they formed at this one, harsh location isn't clear. The lagoon environment could resemble the conditions on ancient Earth, Hynek saidthe waters are salty and acidic and, because of the high elevation, are exposed to severe levels of solar radiation.

The communities could also provide scientists with an unprecedented look at how life may have arisen on Mars, which resembled Earth billions of years ago.

"If life ever evolved on Mars to the level of fossils, it would have been like this," Hynek said. "Understanding these modern communities on Earth could inform us about what we should look for as we search for similar features in the Martian rocks."

Hynek and Farias are hoping to conduct further experiments to confirm that these new stromatolites are, indeed, actively building their rocky formationsand explore how the microbes manage to survive the harsh conditions.

The scientists, however, may be running out of time. A company from outside Argentina has already leased the area to mine for lithium. Once drilling begins, the Atacama lagoons could be irreversibly transformed.

"This entire, unique ecosystem could be gone in a matter of years," Hynek said. "We're hoping that we can protect some of these sites, or at least detail what's there before it's gone or disturbed forever."
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The Salop circles with probabilistic selling products in a market with full and partial coverage. Credit: Tongyuan Shen et al

In today's digital age, the travel industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with online platforms becoming central hubs for a variety of travel services. These platforms allow travelers to search, compare, and make purchases, moving beyond traditional offline methods.

A novel strategy, known as probabilistic selling, is gaining traction on these digital platforms. It involves withholding certain product details during the initial sale phase, revealing them only later. Major industry players, such as Expedia and Priceline, have used this strategy for hotel bookings, providing basic information like star rating and location initially, with full details disclosed post-purchase.

The car rental sector employs a similar tactic, with companies grouping vehicles into categories like economy and luxury, revealing the specific model only after payment. This approach has proven effective in driving revenue, attracting new users, and managing inventory efficiently.

In the airline industry, Chinese companies offer "fly at will" tickets("" or suixinfei in Chinese), allowing travelers to choose a departure location while keeping the destination and time a surprise. These tickets, offered at significant discounts, have gained immense popularity.

In the performing arts sector, the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra's "Blind Box Concerts" have also embraced probabilistic selling, revealing the program only on the day of the performance and thus generating increased anticipation and engagement.

The COVID-19 pandemic dealt a heavy blow to the travel industry, with hotel revenues in the US halving in the first half of 2020 and luxury hotels experiencing even steeper declines. A slow recovery is projected, extending into 2023 or 2024, highlighting the importance of innovative sales strategies like probabilistic selling.

Recently, a group of Chinese economists studied the effectiveness of probabilistic selling in digital travel platforms, focusing on its impact on profits and social welfare. Using the Salop circular city model, they analyzed various scenarios, such as the full market coverage and partial market coverage cases.

The findings indicate that probabilistic selling not only enhances market demand but also boosts consumer satisfaction, benefiting both the platform and the sellers. Importantly, these outcomes are consistent regardless of the number of sellers or the timing, underscoring the versatility of probabilistic selling as a tool for digital platforms.

The team published the study findings in the Journal of Economy and Technology. Notably, the study contributes valuable insights into the evolution of digital platforms and their adoption of probabilistic selling strategies, highlighting the positive implications for the travel industry in the digital era.

More information: Tongyuan Shen et al, Digital marketplace: The role of probabilistic selling strategies in the travel industry, Journal of Economy and Technology (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.ject.2023.10.003

Provided by KeAi Communications Co.
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Credit: Stanley Morales from Pexels

Students achieve better grades in college science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) courses when those classrooms have higher numbers of underrepresented racial-minority and first-generation college students, according to new research published in AERA Open.

While this link holds true for all students, it is even stronger for students who are underrepresented racial minorities (URMs) and the first in their family to attend college. The authors found that in STEM courses with higher URM representation, the gap in grades between URM and non-URM students dropped by 27%. More impressive, the grade disparity between first-generation and continuing-generation students dropped by 56% in STEM courses with high first-generation representation.

Racial and socioeconomic disparities in college grades and graduation rates have been long-standing concerns in STEM programs, especially given the nation's pressing need to grow its STEM workforce and the higher salaries that these graduates earn. In addition, the authors emphasize that all students benefit from the presence of URMs and first-generation students in the classroom.

"It's really notable that improving racial and socioeconomic representation leads to benefits for everyone and reduces inequities at the same time," said study co-author Nicholas Bowman, a professor of educational policy and leadership studies at the University of Iowa. "It is not a zero-sum game."

Bowman conducted the study with Christine Logel (Renison University College), Jennifer LaCosse (University of MichiganFlint), Elizabeth A. Canning (Washington State University), Katherine T. U. Emerson (Indiana University), and Mary C. Murphy (Indiana University). Their study analyzed data collected by the College Transition Collaborative, covering 11,868 undergraduates in 8,468 STEM courses at 20 U.S. colleges and universities from fall 2015 to summer 2017.

With the Supreme Court eliminating the use of race-conscious college admissions last June, the authors note their findings make clear what is at stake for students as institutions of higher education look to alternative ways to increase racial and socioeconomic representation.

"It is critical that colleges and universities redouble their efforts to create learning environments that have substantial diversity," said Bowman. "This is especially true in the STEM fields, where there are long-existing equity gaps."

Bowman noted the study is the first on this topic to use such a large, multi-institutional data set. It is also one of the first to examine the role of classroom representation of first-generation students. In addition, the authors accounted for potential student self-selection into certain types of courses or into classes with demographically similar peers and other possible explanations.

"The consistency of results across student and course characteristics drives home the importance of our results," said Bowman. "Despite the presence of long-standing systemic inequities, policies that promote college access for URM and first-generation students can make a difference when it comes to improving learning outcomes."

More information: Nicholas Bowman et al, The Role of Minoritized Student Representation in Promoting Achievement and Equity Within College STEM Courses, AERA Open (2023). DOI: 10.1177/23328584231209957

Provided by American Educational Research Association
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Internal view of the cable data logger box for the soil temperature measurement system (Controller Area Network bus module system) at the Jena experimental site. Credit: Karl Kubler / MPI BGC Jena

A new study has revealed a natural solution to mitigate the effects of climate change, such as extreme weather events. Researchers from Leipzig University, the Friedrich Schiller University Jena, the German Center for Integrative Biodiversity Research Halle-Jena-Leipzig (iDiv) and other research institutions have discovered that high plant diversity acts as a buffer against fluctuations in soil temperature. This buffer can then be of vital importance to ecosystem processes.

The new findings are published in the journal Nature Geoscience.

"Soil temperature plays a central role in controlling important ecosystem processes related to water, carbon and nutrient dynamics, microbial activity and agricultural productivity," explains the lead author of the study, Dr. Yuanyuan Huang. Despite its importance, no study has yet investigated whether plant diversity in particular acts as a buffer against fluctuations in soil temperature during long-term plant community development.

In their study, Huang and her colleagues present the results of a comprehensive data set collected from 2004 to 2021 in a large-scale grassland biodiversity experimentthe Jena Experiment. The experimental site consists of 80 plots with a variety of plants ranging from one to 60 species. In addition, four plots of unplanted soil and two plots of uncontrolled vegetation provided important reference points.

Soil temperature was automatically recorded at depths of 5 and 15 centimeters at one-minute intervals over a period of 18 years, which spanned considerable climate variability. Dr. Anne Ebeling, scientific coordinator of the experiment, says, "We have just celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Jena Experiment. Over these two decades, we have experienced a number of extreme weather events, including prolonged droughts, a major flood in 2013 and exceptionally cold springs."

Gideon Stein, the second author of the study and responsible for the data preparation, adds, "It is really interesting to see how many historical events can be found in the temperature data of the Jena Experiment."

"This unprecedented analysis of long-term, high-resolution data provides compelling evidence that plant diversity acts as a natural buffer and provides stability in the face of climate extremes," emphasizes Huang. Throughout the 18-year period, plant diversity showed a remarkable ability to protect the soil from overheating in scorching heat and to help retain heat in colder periods.

In summer, on days with particularly high air temperatures, the soil temperature in plant communities with 60 species was 5.04C lower than in plots with no plants. For comparison, this difference is more than double the difference between monocultures and bare soil at the same time.

However, on days with particularly low air temperatures, the soil temperature in the 60-species plant community was 1.48C warmer than in the plots with no plants, which in this case is almost five times the difference between monocultures and the bare soil.

The researchers concluded that plant diversity can stabilize soil temperature throughout the year. The effects intensified as the experimental communities became older, and are even more pronounced under the harshest climate conditions, such as scorching hot days and dry years.

In a second step, Huang and her colleagues set out to investigate the causes of the stabilizing effect of plant diversity. Plant diversity not only increased the total leaf area of the plants, leading to greater shading, but also increased the organic carbon content of the soil. The stabilizing effect of plant diversity was demonstrated by a reduction in heat conduction in the top 60 centimeters of soil. As a result, soil temperature remained more stable throughout the year and throughout the topsoil in communities with higher plant diversity.

These findings have far-reaching implications. In temperate grasslands and beyond, the stabilization of soil temperature provided by plant diversity could be crucial in mitigating the negative effects of extreme climate events. This includes the decomposition of carbon in the soil and its release into the atmosphere. According to the researchers, this natural mechanism thus also has the potential to slow down the process of global warming.

"Our research shows the remarkable ability of plant diversity to act as a protective shield against the impacts of climate change. It is a stark reminder of the importance of conserving and promoting biodiversity in our ecosystems to protect the environment and ensure a sustainable future," says Professor Nico Eisenhauer, head of the study and spokesperson for the Jena experiment. He adds that the study not only adds to our understanding of the vital role of biodiversity, but also offers a glimmer of hope in the ongoing fight against climate change.

More information: Yuanyuan Huang et al, Enhanced stability of grassland soil temperature by plant diversity, Nature Geoscience (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41561-023-01338-5 Journal information: Nature Geoscience
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Sound and noise inside prisons can affect both staff and inmates, so a thorough understanding of that noise is crucial when designing prison spaces. Credit: Helen Farley

Prisons are typically noisy environments, filled with clanking metal bars and echoing concrete surfaces. This level of constant noise is harmful to both prisoners and staff, but there are few guidelines for designing better, quieter facilities.

James Boland, an acoustician for SLR Consulting, employed insights from the field of sensory criminology to better understand the unique acoustic needs inside prison environments. His presentation will take place Dec. 6, as part of Acoustics 2023 Sydney, running Dec. 48 at the International Convention Center Sydney.

"Sensory criminology examines how sensory experiences, such as sight, sound, and touch, influence and shape perceptions of crime and justice," said Boland. "It emphasizes the impact of auditory elements on the experiences of both prisoners and staff and considers how the constant noise contributes to the overall atmosphere, perceptions, and communication within the prison environment."

Auditory guidelines for prisons are often adapted from existing protocols for schools and hospitals. However, prisons are unique environments with different relationships to sound and noise. For instance, both prisoners and staff rely on noise to gauge the level of social tension. A prison that is "too quiet" can sometimes be worse than one that is too loud.

In the context of prisons, acoustic design can contribute to transforming communication dynamics and alleviating negative social interactions. By focusing on speech intelligibility, strategic reduction of noise levels, and the incorporation of privacy considerations, acoustic design can significantly improve the overall prison environment. Creating distinct zones within the prison and balancing moments of quiet with activity are essential to fostering a more comfortable and secure space.

"The crux lies in recognizing the significance of 'noise' from the perspective of those inhabiting these spaces," said Boland. "For prisoners, it's about how sound influences their outlook in terms of power or dynamic safety in their daily lives, while for staff, it becomes a tool for decision-making and maintaining safety for themselves and those under their care."

By seeking input from the people who occupy and live in these spaces, Boland hopes to gain an understanding of the complex role of sound inside prisons. Such an understanding could lead to better guidelines for current and future prison facilities, benefiting everyone inside.

"Ultimately, thoughtful acoustic design in prisons can directly influence the lived experiences of individuals, promoting positive social interactions and supporting rehabilitation efforts," said Boland.
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Barred Owl at Malheur NWR. Credit: Ray Bosch/USFWS, CC-2.0. Used with permission.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to enlist shooters to kill more than 500,000 barred owls over the next 30 years in the Pacific Northwest to preserve habitat for northern spotted owls, a protected species.

Barred owls are native to the East Coast but since the 1950s have been expanding their range in the Northwest. They are relentless predators who eat anything that moves. They will yank worms from the ground and salamanders out from under rocks. Nail birds on the wing and anything in the water, from fish to snails to crayfish and frogs. Even slugs are on the menu.

They are also bigger, more aggressive and more territorial than the northern spotted owl, posing a threat to their survival as a species, which is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

Now the federal government is detailing a rescue plan.

The goal of a draft environmental impact statement for the agency's barred owl reduction program is to take out the owls in the northern spotted owl's range in Washington and Oregon and to focus on heading off expansion of the barred owl into the range of the California spotted owl.

Assuming complete implementation of the proposal, an initial cull of about 20,000 barred owls would occur in the first year. Then, an annual reduction of 13,397 birds a year in the first decade of the program; 16,303 a year in the second decade and 17,390 birds each year in the third decade, in parts of Washington, Oregon and California11 to 14 million acres in all.

The weapon of choice would be a large-bore shotgun and night scopes as needed for work in darkness or low light. When gunfire is too dangerous near people, capture and euthanasia would be substituted.

Any landowner or land manager may ask the agency to let them remove the owls under the agency's protocol, training specifications and permit.

The removal season is recommended during late spring through midsummer and fall. Shooters are directed to lure the owls with a recording of another owl's call. When a barred owl comes within 30 yards and is stationary, they would shoot to kill.

There is not much time left for the northern spotted owl, the agency concluded. Populations in study areas throughout the owl's range have declined from 35% to more than 80% over the past two decades. California spotted owls, which the service proposed for endangered species listing earlier this year, face a similar risk from barred owl competition as it expands southward.

"Everywhere the spotted owl can live and thrive, barred owls can thrive and do even better," said Katherine Fitzgerald, northern spotted owl recovery lead for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, based in Portland. "They are still invading, and they are not done."

A declining species

Much has been done to try to rescue the northern spotted owl, the poster animal of the campaign to save the old-growth forests of the Pacific Northwest. The owl was listed as a threatened species in 1990. Then, in 1994, a federal judge approved the Northwest Forest Plan, devised under the Clinton administration, to set aside some 24 million acres of old-growth forests on federal land. The multispecies protection plan was intended to preserve habitat for the spotted owl on federal lands in the places scientists deemed most important for its survival, from Washington to California.

The owl depends on old-growth forests where its primary preysmall mammals that thrive in the complex, unique environment of old growth forestsinclude flying squirrels and tree voles.

But the owl, already greatly reduced in numbers by logging before the Northwest Forest Plan, faces continued habitat loss from wildfire and logging on unprotected lands. And now, it is mortally threatened by a devastating, invading competitor.

Barred owls were first documented in British Columbia in 1959 and in Washington, Oregon and California in the 1970s. Today, there are well over 100,000 barred owls in the northern spotted owl's territory in Washington, Oregon and Northern California, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Theories as to why the barred owl is now here vary. But the general picture includes the alteration of the original landscape and killing and removal of its Native people and wildlife by settler colonizers.

Exactly because the barred owl is now so pervasive, some experts think the kill program is madness.

"Once you start, you can never stop," said Eric Forsman, a leading spotted owl expert whose research while he worked at the U.S. Forest Service informed the Northwest Forest Plan. Forsman helped map the forests set aside in the plan and knows personally individual northern spotted owl nest sites in trees that have since burned in wildfires. He knows prime habitat is now bereft of spotted owls because of all the human-caused threats to the owl's existence.

He sees nothing but doom ahead for the species he devoted his career to, whether or not the barred owl is gunned down to save it.

"What I think is going to happen is in most of these areas, spotted owls are going to eventually, in fact fairly soon, go extinct. There simply will be none left," Forsman said.

"It makes me incredibly sad."

An owl so calm

For Robin Bown, a biologist and barred owl management strategy lead for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Portland, spotted owls were the birds that spoiled her for working with any other animal. They were just so calm, so unafraid of humans, she once banded a spotted owl as it slept in her lap. The joke among biologists is that spotted owls have Valium for blood.

Bown acknowledges the enormous scope and long haul the agency is proposing, beginning as soon as spring of 2025. People can always terminate the program, but "if you don't do the program, you won't have spotted owls," Bown said.

Every five years, the service does an analysis to determine how northern populations of the spotted owl are doing. Free fall is the only description that fits: The last report in 2021 showed significant population change in every single one of the study areas, showing that more than 75% of the population that was there in the 1990s was gone.

Because the owl is a federally listed species, the agency is obligated to do everything it can legally and ethically to recover spotted owl populations, said Kessina Lee, state supervisor for the Oregon office of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The goal is not to kill every barred owl in the West but to strategically take pressure off spotted owls where possible. At the most, about 30% of the barred owl population in the range of the northern spotted owl would be killed. "We know we can't fully eradicate them, but we know we can create [refuge] areas with much lower barred owl density that allows spotted owls to survive and thrive," Lee said.

In four study areas in Oregon, Washington and northern California, killing barred owls under an agency research study brought spotted owls to almost stable populations, whereas in a neighboring control population, spotted owl populations declined by 12%.

The agency's experts are confident scaling the pilot up now to knock back the barred owl invasion can give the northern spotted owl a chance at recovery.

"We know we can make a difference. Can it be done? The answer is yes," Lee said.

Not that selling the public on this will be easy.

"Are we going to do more harm than good? Do we really want a bunch of people in the woods shooting at what are otherwise protected birds?" said Bob Sallinger, executive director of Bird Conservation Oregon, a nonprofit he started after retiring from 30 years of bird advocacy at Portland Audubon.

There, he fought hard against the program run by the Corps of Engineers to kill cormorants eating protected salmon in the Columbia River. "I nearly always opposed these sorts of programs," Sallinger said. But on this one, he is still making up his mind.

"I do put the highest priority on preventing extinction, and there is science that shows us this is probably necessary," Sallinger said. "But this is really a no-win, awful situation we created for ourselves. It is appalling we have to consider these kinds of measures, and incredibly sad."

Changes in the land

None of this, of course, is the barred owl's fault. They are just taking advantage of the habitat created for them. The settlers killed off beaver and bison that chewed off sprouting young trees. Settlers also suppressed fires and killed and pushed out the Native people whose fire management regimes also maintained open lands.

In addition to creating conditions that allowed trees to naturally take root and grow, settlers planted millions upon millions of trees to provide shelterbelts around their homes and farms and prevent erosion. All of these activities put out a welcome mat for the barred owl, to colonize what had been treeless terrain. Warming temperatures with climate change helped.

Now, as the barred owl continues feasting on native animals in its new home, biologists fear not only extinction for the spotted owl in the near future. They also worry about other native, naive animals being mowed down and gobbled up by a novel predatoror facing new competition for their own prey.

The barred owl's omnivorous and ferocious appetite could have cascading effects on the ecosystem and its food webs.

The draft environmental impact statement can be read here at the agency's website. A 60-day public comment period began Nov. 17 and closes Jan. 16. Information on how to submit comments is available at www.regulations.gov by searching under docket number FWS-R1-ES-2022-0074.

The Service will host an informational virtual public meeting on Dec. 14 from 6-8 p.m. Pacific Time. This meeting will focus on management within the range of California spotted owls.

A link and access instructions to the virtual meetings will be posted at www.fws.gov/office/oregon-fish-and-wildlife at least one week before the public meeting date.

Correction Note (12/12/2023): The barn owl image has been replaced with a barred owl image.

2023 The Seattle Times.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Tipping is now more of an afterthought for DoorDash deliveries in New York City following a minimum wage increase ordinance in the city.

The company announced on Monday that it is moving its tipping option post-checkout to "better balance the impact of bad policies."

Customers are usually handed the tipping option on the checkout screen with the middle option selected as default. This remains the same in other cities, not just in New York.

The move is in recommendation from the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection after DoorDash was "forced" to raise its delivery fees. That way, services remain affordable for regular New Yorkers.

DoorDash has been vocal against the "ill-conceived" regulations in the city, warning of "significant consequences" for the platform's users and drivers soon.

The delivery service had a hearing last April and in June for a reconsideration of the new policy.

New York City Minimum Wage Increase

Earlier this year, New York City passed the first-of-its-kind law to increase minimum pay for app-based food delivery drivers in the city to at least $17.96 per hour plus tips starting July 12.

Another wage hike to $19.96 an hour is set to arrive by April 2025.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said the laws will "guarantee these workers, and their families, can earn a living."

Food delivery companies operating in the city, however, were not happy with the new wage policy.

DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber filed a lawsuit against the city for its supposed "harmful impacts" on customers, sellers, and delivery workers in the city. The companies claimed the law would force them to shrink services.

In September, a federal court upheld the city's rulings to the companies' disappointment.

Also Read: DoorDash Drivers Might Pass on Orders with No Tips, Company Warns

DoorDash Policy on Delivery Drivers

This was not the first time DoorDash changed its policies in reaction to a new regulation passed in favor of its workers.

Before the New York City law was passed, DoorDash revamped its policies for delivery drivers. It allows workers to earn a "consistent" guaranteed hourly rate in addition to tips received.

The hourly rate, however, is much lower than the minimum wage increase offered by the DCWP.

DoorDash maintains that 100% of the tips will still go to drivers even after the new policy.

Related Article: DoorDash To Offer Delivery Workers Minimum Wage With a Twist
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

The word "mobility" conjures up images and ideas of the movement of people, capital, and things from one place to another. The globalized world of the 21st century has ushered in an era of "new mobility" studies fronted by sociology researchers and human geography scholars. It encompasses not only the diverse movements of people, including tourists and corporate elites, and the associated regulatory policies like border control but also the flow of finances across various sectors and the transportation of goods and services, spanning from waste disposal to organ transport.

In an article published for a special issue of the ECNU Review of Education, Dr. Diego Santori from the School of Education, Communication and Society at King's College London and Dr. Jin Jin from the School of Education at East China Normal University charted the landscape of network ethnography in education policy studies and highlighted the researchers breaking new ground in the field.

What exactly is network ethnography? It is a method that combines ethnographic methods with social network analysis to understand mobilities and dynamics in a policy network. The interactions within the network, their evolution, and their movement are analyzed to determine how policy shapes and changes.

The two main elements in a social network include the nodes and the edgesthe nodes include individuals and organizations, and the edges link them together. The researchers focus on exploring what is shared through the networks, such as schemes, programs, artifacts, techniques, or technologies. Thus, network ethnography requires extensive internet searches on the actors, organizations, events, and their connections, sifting through material such as newsletters, press releases, videos, and speeches, among others, and attending conferences where network participants often come together.

For Dr. Santori and Dr. Jin, defining what is included and excluded in the policy network is a critical challenge for conducting network ethnography. "When conducting this searches on key organizations, we usually look at 'about us' tabs to access information about the governance structure of the organization, as well as 'our partners' tabs, which generally include information about associated organizations and business," they say.

"Thus, it is often difficult to make decisions about what nodes are beyond the scope of the network ethnography and hence to draw the boundary around the network."

Another challenge for conducting network ethnography is their ever-changing nature. The time between recording and transcribing patterns of interaction and their dynamics, followed by the subsequent analysis and discussion in publications, might mean that the information has become outdated as policymakers and organizations change priorities. Dr. Santori and Dr. Jin suggest that improvising and planning simultaneously can help mitigate some of these effects.

"Network ethnography requires space for the unknown and the flexibility to navigate emerging data collection opportunities without diverting from the research aims and objectives," they say. "Those opportunities can look like accessing a partner organization that was not originally included in the research design or attending a network-related event that was not apparent when the project was conceived."

For Dr. Santori and Dr. Jin, shedding light on the varied relationships between policy mobilities and moorings in different contexts will propel the field forward. The researchers of this special issue by the ECNU Review of Education are grappling with unique and varied questions, such as "the structure and dynamics of the global education policy field, the divergences of policy networks in traditionally different policy spaces, the politics within policy networks and possibilities of reflexivity and resistance," they say.

In summary, the authors in this special issue deployed network ethnography in different countries. They also addressed different kinds of policy actors and investigated the effects of the related labor and social relations in shaping policy networks and education reforms. This work will potentially spark new ideas and conversations among researchers and stakeholders.

More information: Diego Santori et al, Globalization, Policy Mobilities, and the Method of Network Ethnography, ECNU Review of Education (2023). DOI: 10.1177/20965311231198254

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Ali Shadilov, left, and Anvar Saimbetov pose in front of an old boat in the area where the Aral Sea once was in Muynak, Uzbekistan, Tuesday, June 27, 2023. The Associated Press interviewed Shadilov and others in Muynak, Uzbekistan  all residents in their 60s and 70s whove long been tied to the sea, or what remains of it. Credit: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi

Brushing the dust from his hat and lying on the floor inside his home, Ali Shadilov recalls how he and other fishermen used to laugh at town elders who warned that the enormous sea they relied on was disappearing.

"Everyone laughed and said that it would take several million years," said Shadilov, 73, one of the last surviving former fishermen of the Aral Sea. "Back then, no one could imagine that the sea would dry up."

The Aral Sea was once the world's fourth-largest inland body of water, with some 68,000 square kilometers (26,300 square miles). Colossal steel ships sailed on deep blue water filled with sturgeon, catfish and other species that were caught, canned and shipped across the Soviet Union.

Thanks to the seatechnically classified as a lake, due to its lack of a direct outlet to the oceanthe region prospered. Hotels hosted tourists seeking cool waters for swimming. Workers and their families migrated to towns along the water, with neighborhoods becoming a mix of ethnic Russians, Kazakhs and local Karakalpaks. Workers at canning factories processed and shipped tins of fish around the clock.

Today, the Aral has shrunk to less than a quarter of its former size. Vast desert surrounds what are now ghost towns, far from the dwindling body of water straddled between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.

A boat sits where the Aral Sea once was in Muynak, Uzbekistan, July 12, 2023. Today, the Aral has shrunk to less than a quarter of its former size. Credit: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi

The Associated Press interviewed Shadilov and others in Muynak, Uzbekistanall residents in their 60s and 70s who've long been tied to the sea, or what remains of it. They shared their memories of the mighty Aral and posed for portraits alongside rusted ships that became marooned and now stand in the dry land.

They remember the thriving fish market, boats bobbing on gentle waves, the bounty that provided for their families. The graveyard of ships is a reminder of their lost livelihoodsand the damage brought on not only by nature, they say, but by man.

As a child, Shadilov would sit in his classroom, watching the sea out the window. Icebergs floated by, melting in the warming spring. He still hums the songs fishermen crooned as they returned to port, children running to the docks to help unload in hopes of getting a ruble in return.

Ali Shadilov, a former fisherman of the Aral Sea, sits on a dilapidated boat in Muynak, Uzbekistan, Tuesday, June 27, 2023. The Associated Press interviewed Shadilov and others in Muynak, Uzbekistan  all residents in their 60s and 70s whove long been tied to the sea, or what remains of it. Credit: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi

He became a fisherman, just like his father. For them, it was lucrativesome catfish could be over 120 kilograms (265 pounds), Shadilov said.

But the elders began to warm him and others in the 1960s.

"We didn't believe them. We said, 'Come on, there's so much waterwhere it will disappear to?'" he said. "They replied, 'You've tasted the water, it's becoming saltier. The sea is receding.'"

In the decades prior, the Soviet Union had irrigated dry land in the region by building dams and canals stemming from the Aral to cultivate rice, cereals, cotton and other water-intensive crops. Poorly built channels led to water waste, and the Aral shrank rapidly.

Soon, for Shadilov and others, the changes became undeniable. The Aral turned into separated lakes, and canals were dug for boats to travel between them. By the mid-1960s, boats would scrape against the floor of the bay and eventually maroon.

Anvar Saimbetov poses for a photo in front of an old boat in the area where the Aral Sea once was in Muynak, Uzbekistan, Tuesday, June 27, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi

Coral Bai poses for a photo in front of an old boat in the area where the Aral Sea once was in Muynak, Uzbekistan, Thursday, July 13, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi

Bakhtyar poses for a photo in front of old boats in the area where the Aral Sea once was in Muynak, Uzbekistan, Wednesday, July 12, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi

Adel Bai poses for a photo in front of old boats in the area where the Aral Sea once was in Muynak, Uzbekistan, Thursday, July 13, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi

Gunesh Bai poses for a photo in front of an old boat in the area where the Aral Sea once was in Muynak, Uzbekistan, Wednesday, July 12, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi

Adel Bai poses for a photo in front of an old boat in the area where the Aral Sea once was in Muynak, Uzbekistan, Wednesday, July 12, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi

Ghurban Yaz poses for a photo in front of an old boat in the area where the Aral Sea once was in Muynak, Uzbekistan, Thursday, July 13, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi

Soleyman poses for a photo in front of an old boat in the area where the Aral Sea once was in Muynak, Uzbekistan, Thursday, July 13, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi

Jowad Khan poses for a photo in front of an old boat in the area where the Aral Sea once was in Muynak, Uzbekistan, Thursday, July 13, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi

Kolgay poses for a photo in front of an old boat in the area where the Aral Sea once was in Muynak, Uzbekistan, Thursday, July 13, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi

As the water disappeared, so did the region's population. Resorts closed. Families returned to their home countries.

Travel by water is a thing of the past. "People now travel by cars," Shadilov said. "The sea disappeared so quickly."

Some of the former fishermen paint their memories of the Aral. Others mark their graves with anchors or lighthouses for headstones when they die.

"The sea saved so many lives," Shadilov said. "But it won't come back."

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Survival of E. coli O157:H7, S. enterica, and L. monocytogenes in nonalcoholic (0.5%) beers based on storage temperatures and pHs. Credit: Journal of Food Protection (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.jfp.2023.100183

The lack of alcohol in nonalcoholic or low-alcohol beerparticularly during manufacturing, storage and pouringmay prompt conditions ripe for foodborne pathogen growth, according to a new Cornell study.

The absence of physical hurdles for microbes to take over the beverage may render these brews susceptible to bacteria and other spoilage problems, the researchers found.

"When you remove the alcohol, it's really no longer a traditional beer," said Randy Worobo, professor of food science in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and senior author of "Survival of Foodborne Pathogens in Low and Nonalcoholic Craft Beer," is published in the Journal of Food Protection.

"We suspected that foodborne pathogens would be able to grow without the presence of alcohol. We were correct. At that point, you must consider nonalcoholic beer like food and make sure that all parameters are met guaranteeing product safety."

Doctoral student Mario Cobo conducted the research in Worobo's laboratory.

Traditional beerswhich can be up to 10% alcohol by volumecontain low pH, harbor a presence of ethanol, provide acid from the hops and keep little oxygen, all of which contribute to microbial stability. In fact, for beer wort boiling (the watery grain simmer that starts the brewing process), the natural pasteurization, filtration and cold storage contribute to pathogen safety as well, according to the paper

"Craft manufacturers of nonalcoholic beer sometimes follow a traditional beer making process," said co-author Ann Charles Vegdahl, an extension associate in the Department of Food Science at Cornell AgriTech in Geneva, New York.

For example, hopping beerthe process of adding hops during the fermentation or conditioning processhas become a popular brewing method for regular alcoholic beers over the past two decades. In fact, the scientists said, that is how India Pale Ale originated to solve spoilage issues during longer ship voyages.

To boost flavor, hopping can be applied to nonalcoholic brews. "But in the end," Charles-Vegdahl said, "brewers add additional material for flavoring and aromalike hopsto nonalcoholic beers, which could potentially introduce contamination."

The scientists inoculated samples of nonalcoholic beer with the bacteria E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella enterica and Listeria monocytogenes, then stored the beverages at two different temperatures (39 and 57 degrees Fahrenheit) for two months. The pathogens grew and survived.

In the low-alcoholic beer, the added E. coli O157:H7 and S. enterica doubled when stored at 57 degrees F, but Listeria was undetectable at both temperatures and all conditions.

Acids also help beer counter pathogens. Cobo said beers with high pH, greater than 4.60 pH, plus low- to no-alcohol and low carbon dioxidewere more susceptible to spoilage.

Due to the increased susceptibility to spoilage and pathogens, the formulation of these beverages must be evaluated for safety by a food processing authority, the researchers said. Low and nonalcoholic beers should be processed through pasteurization, to achieve commercial sterility. Sterile filtration and the addition of preservatives should be considered as additional steps to reduce this microbial risk.

The researchers said that due to increasing consumer demand for nonalcoholic beer served on draftor poured from a keg, for examplealso could boost microbial problems. The group suggested that nonalcoholic beer kegs, draft-system tubing and beer-pouring faucets should be sanitized regularly to eliminate potential foodborne pathogens and spoilage organisms.

"Without alcohol in beer, you're removing a lot of the safety net against foodborne pathogens," Worobo said. "Without that protection that alcohol provides, manufacturers must take into consideration how pathogens may be incorporated from raw products during the processing."

Vegdahl said, "If you're a small craft beer producer creating nonalcoholic or low-alcohol beersthat is, if you're not making a conventional beermy advice would be to get your procedures reviewed by an expert process authority."

More information: Mario Cobo et al, Survival of Foodborne Pathogens in Low and Nonalcoholic Craft Beer, Journal of Food Protection (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.jfp.2023.100183 Journal information: Journal of Food Protection
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Beachgoers flock to Arpoador beach to beat the extreme heat in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023. The European climate agency calculates that November, for the sixth month in a row, the globe set a new monthly record for heat, adding the hottest autumn to the broken records of record-breaking heat this year. Credit: AP Photo/Bruna Prado, File

For the sixth month in a row, Earth set a new monthly record for heat, and also added the hottest autumn to the litany of record-breaking heat this year, the European climate agency calculated.

And with only one month left, 2023 is on the way to smashing the record for hottest year.

November was nearly a third of a degree Celsius (0.57 degrees Fahrenheit) hotter than the previous hottest November, the European Space Agency's Copernicus Climate Change Service announced early Wednesday. November was 1.75 degrees Celsius (3.15 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than pre-industrial times, tying October and behind September, for the hottest above average for any month, the scientists said.

"The last half year has truly been shocking," said Copernicus Deputy Director Samantha Burgess. "Scientists are running out of adjectives to describe this.''

November averaged 14.22 degrees Celsius (57.6 degrees Fahrenheit), which is 0.85 degrees Celsius (1.5 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than the average the last 30 years. Two days during the month were 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than pre-industrial times, something that hadn't happened before, according to Burgess.

So far this year is 1.46 degrees Celsius (2.6 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than pre-industrial times, about a seventh of a degree warmer than the previous warmest year of 2016, Copernicus scientists calculated. That's very close to the international threshold the world set for climate change.

A jet takes flight from Sky Harbor International Airport as the sun sets over Phoenix, July 12, 2023. Homeless people are among the people most likely to die in the extreme heat in metro Phoenix. The European climate agency calculates that November, for the sixth month in a row, the globe set a new monthly record for heat, adding the hottest autumn to the broken records of record-breaking heat this year. Credit: AP Photo/Matt York, File

The 2015 Paris climate agreement set a goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial times over the long term and failing that at least 2 degrees (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Diplomats, scientists, activists and others meeting at the United Nations climate conference in Dubai for nearly two weeks are trying to find ways to limit warming to those levels, but the planet isn't cooperating.

Scientists calculate with the promises countries around the world have made and the actions they have taken, Earth is on track to warm 2.7 to 2.9 degrees Celsius (4.9 to 5.2 degrees) above pre-industrial times.

The northern autumn is also the hottest fall the world has had on record, Copernicus calculated.

Copernicus records go back to 1940. United States government calculated records go back to 1850. Scientists using proxies such as ice cores, tree rings and corals have said this is the warmest decade Earth has seen in about 125,000 years, dating back before human civilization. And the last several months have been the hottest of the last decade.

A woman drinks from a public fountain tap amid extreme heat in Madrid, Spain, Aug. 9, 2023. The world is off track in its efforts to curb global warming, a new international report calculates Tuesday, Nov. 14. The European climate agency calculates that November, for the sixth month in a row, the globe set a new monthly record for heat, adding the hottest autumn to the broken records of record-breaking heat this year. Credit: AP Photo/Paul White, File

Clouds surround downtown Phoenix at sunset, Sunday, July 30, 2023. The European climate agency calculates that November, for the sixth month in a row, the globe set a new monthly record for heat, adding the hottest autumn to the broken records of record-breaking heat this year. Credit: AP Photo/Matt York, File

Henry Zeller drinks water to stay hydrated from the extreme heat in Los Angeles on Sunday, July 16, 2023. The European climate agency calculates that November, for the sixth month in a row, the globe set a new monthly record for heat, adding the hottest autumn to the broken records of record-breaking heat this year. Credit: AP Photo/Richard Vogel, File

A man sunbathes in high temperatures in Marseille, southern France, Aug. 19, 2023. The European climate agency calculates that November, for the sixth month in a row, the globe set a new monthly record for heat, adding the hottest autumn to the broken records of record-breaking heat this year. Credit: AP Photo/Daniel Cole, File

Scientists say there are two driving forces behind the six straight record hottest months in a row. One is human-caused climate change from the burning of coal, oil and gas. That's like an escalator. But the natural El Nino-La Nina cycle is like jumping up or down on that escalator.

The world is in a potent El Nino, which is a temporary warming of parts of the central Pacific that changes weather worldwide, and that adds to global temperatures already spiked by climate change.

It's only going to get warmer as long as the world keeps pouring greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, Burgess said. And she said that means "catastrophic floods, fires, heat waves, droughts will continue.''

"2023 is very likely to be a cool year in the future unless we do something about our dependence on fossil fuels," Burgess said.

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Serratichneumon maculatus Sheng & Riedel gen. et sp. nov., holotype,  (CBDPC). 1. Habitus, lateral view. 2. Head, anterior view. 3. Mandibles. Credit: European Journal of Taxonomy (2023). DOI: 10.5852/ejt.2023.910.2355

In a forest in southern China, a parasitic creature flew through the air. Suddenly, a net enveloped the animal. Scientists looked at their successful catchand discovered a new species.

Equipped with bug-catching nets, researchers ventured into a forest in Guangzhou in 2022, according to a study published Dec. 1 in the European Journal of Taxonomy. While there, they captured a spotted wasp.

Intrigued, researchers searched for any records of similar-looking wasps and found seven more specimens in archive collections, the study said. They studied the insects and realized they'd discovered a new species: Serratichneumon maculatus, or the spotted parasitic wasp.

Spotted parasitic wasps have a body about 0.5 inches in length and slightly shorter wings, researchers said. Their faces are "flat," and their mouths have two "distinctly separated teeth."

A photo shows a spotted parasitic wasp. It has a black body with lighter-colored patches that researchers described as "drop-shaped" and "large white and red spots." Its six legs are reddish-brown.

A close-up photo shows the wasp's wings. The wings are a translucent yellow with dark brown veins and a glossy appearance.

Male spotted parasitic wasps have "serrated" antennae, the study said. These antennae seem to have a similar shape to a leafy plant.

Researchers have not identified the spotted parasitic wasp's host animal, the study said. Based on the wasp's anatomy, they suspect its host is a type of butterfly or moth larvae.

So far, spotted parasitic wasps have been found in China, Vietnam and Indonesia.

Researchers said they named the new species after the spots on its body.

The new species was placed in a new genus and identified by its antennae shape, unique teeth, body shape and other subtle physical features, the study said. Researchers did not provide a DNA analysis of the new species.

The research team included Mao-Ling Sheng, Matthias Riedel and Zhong Wang.

More information: Mao-Ling Sheng et al, A new genus and species of Ichneumonini Latreille (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Ichneumoninae) from Oriental Region, European Journal of Taxonomy (2023). DOI: 10.5852/ejt.2023.910.2355

2023 The Charlotte Observer. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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DiD Graph: Trends in PSOE Vote Share in Treated and Control Municipalities. Credit: American Political Science Review (2023). DOI: 10.1017/S0003055423001235

A new study by UCL researchers shows how it's possible to phase out fossil fuels without sacrificing electoral popularityeven in coal mining regions.

The new paper, published in the American Political Science Review, illustrates how a government that phased out coal mining was able to avoid a backlash from the affected coal regions.

The researchers studied the Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE) government's policy to phase out coal mining, which was negotiated with affected unions and businesses shortly before Spain's 2019 national election. Under the resulting "Just Transition Agreement," 28 coal mines were to be closed by the end of 2019 in three provincesAsturias, Teruel, and Leonand the government agreed to provide 250 million in support to affected workers and investment in affected municipalities, spread over eight years (20192027).

The researchers used statistical methods to compare the change in PSOE's vote share (relative to the preceding election) in municipalities subject to the agreement with its change in vote share in similar, non-coal regions.

They found that the margin by which PSOE's vote share increased was higher in the coal mining municipalities, implying that the agreement boosted PSOE's vote in those communities. Further statistical tests and interviews conducted by the research team suggest that this electoral boost was driven by unions' support of the agreement.

Lead author Dr. Fergus Green (UCL Political Science) said, "The study has important implications for how political parties can craft popular climate policy. It can help inform policymakers who are worried about the political risks of adopting climate policies that impose costs on particular industries and communities."

The work underscores the political value of a holistic policy approach to the net-zero transition that extends beyond actions that merely reduce greenhouse gas emissions to encompass broader industrial, regional, social, and labor market policies.

In addition, it shows that the process matters. In the Spanish case, dialogue among the government, unions, and businesses built trust and confidence among affected stakeholders and led to an agreement that all parties could support. The unions, in turn, played a constructive intermediating role that built support for the agreement and for PSOE ahead of the election, in coal-mining communities.

It helped in the Spanish case that the industry was small, relatively concentrated, and faced a weak economic outlook independently of the government's climate policy. These factors both incentivized and facilitated a negotiated solution. In contexts where fossil fuel production is more profitable, negotiating such agreements is politically harder. Accordingly, policies aimed at reducing demand for fossil fuels have a crucial role to play in creating the economic conditions that make policies to phase out supply more politically feasible.

Whether government climate policies target fossil fuel supply or demand, the research shows that the difficult politics of climate change can be managed by incorporating affected stakeholders in the decision-making process and providing a credible pathway for livelihoods beyond fossil fuels.

More information: Diane Bolet et al, How to Get Coal Country to Vote for Climate Policy: The Effect of a "Just Transition Agreement" on Spanish Election Results, American Political Science Review (2023). DOI: 10.1017/S0003055423001235 Journal information: American Political Science Review
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Geographic distribution of Late Devonian phosphorus records. Marine records (BE) are shown in relation to the Heintzbjerg study site (A), indicated as red stars. Marine records include: (B) Steinbruch Schmidt, Germany; (C) Kowala, Poland; (D) Coumiac, France; and (E) H-32 Core, Iowa, USA. The Viluy large igneous province (LIP) is indicated by the orange triangle. Credit: Communications Earth & Environment (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s43247-023-01087-8

Diverse and full of sea life, the Earth's Devonian erataking place more than 370 million years agosaw the emergence of the first seed-bearing plants, which spread as large forests across the continents of Gondwana and Laurussia.

However, a mass extinction event near the end of this era has long been the subject of debate. Some scientists argue the Late Devonian mass extinction was caused by large-scale volcanic eruptions, causing global cooling. Others argue a mass deoxygenation event caused by the expansion of land plants was to blame.

A recently published study in the journal Communications Earth & Environment led by researchers at IUPUI now posits that both factors played a roleand draws attention to the environmental tipping points the planet faces today.

The study is co-authored by School of Science at IUPUI faculty Gabriel Filippelli and William Gilhooly III. The lead author is Matthew Smart, an assistant professor of oceanography at the U.S. Naval Academy who was a graduate student in Filippelli's lab at the time of the study.

The work is the first to unify two competing Late Devonian extinction theories into a comprehensive cause-and-effect scenario. Essentially, the group concluded that both eventsmass volcanism and deoxygenation caused by land plants flushing excess nutrients into oceansneeded to occur for the mass extinction to take place.

"The key to resolving this puzzle was identifying and integrating the timing and magnitude of the geochemical signals we determined using a sophisticated global model," Filippelli said. "This modeling effort revealed that the magnitude of nutrient events we were seeing based on the geochemical records could drive substantial marine extinction events, but the duration of the events required both factorstree root evolution and volcanismto sustain the marine conditions that were toxic to organisms."

With experts in sedimentology, paleontology, geochemistry, biogeochemistry and mathematical modeling, the group literally dug deep to geochemically analyze hundreds of samples scattered across different continents. These include samples from Ymer Island in eastern Greenland, home of some of the oldest rock samples on the planet.

"The process was highly interdisciplinary," Gilhooly said. "This combined expertise created a rigorous approach to collecting the samples, correlating sequences in time, acquiring the chemical data and using geochemical models to test working hypotheses about the relative influences of bioticallyplantsand chemicallyvolcanoesdriven triggers of mass extinction. Our analyses demonstrate that the influences are much more mixed than an either-or scenario."

Filippelli and Gilhooly said the study's conclusion gives researchers a lot to consider. During the Devonian era, new biological outcomes on land produced negative effects for life in the ocean. In the present day, Gilhooly noted, activity like fertilizer runoff emptying into the ocean, combined with heating from fossil fuel combustion, are reducing oceans' oxygen levels. The previous outcome of this similar scenario in the Late Devonian had catastrophic outcomes, he said.

"Throughout Earth's history, there have been a series of biological innovations and geological events that have completely reshaped biological diversity and environmental conditions in the ocean and on land," Gilhooly said.

"In the Devonian era, a new biological strategy on land produced a negative impact for life in the ocean. This is a sobering observation when put in the context of modern global and climatic change driven by human activities. We have a lot to learn from Earth history that can help us think of strategies and actions to avoid future tipping points."

More information: Matthew S. Smart et al, The expansion of land plants during the Late Devonian contributed to the marine mass extinction, Communications Earth & Environment (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s43247-023-01087-8 Journal information: Communications Earth & Environment
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

The Altai Mountains are located in the eastern hinterland of Central Asia, bordering Russia, China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan. Chinese Altai Mountains, located in the north of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, belongs to the southern slope of the middle section of Altai Mountains. As an accumulation area of major cryosphere elements, cryosphere changes in the Chinese Altai Mountains have important impacts on regional water resources and ecosystems.

A research team led by Prof. Wang Puyu from the Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has investigated cryosphere changes and their impacts on regional water resources in Chinese Altai Mountains from 2000 to 2021, based on the latest multi-source data, such as remote sensing, ground stationary observations, and route surveys.

The results were published in CATENA on Nov. 5.

The researchers found that glaciers in the Chinese Altai Mountains have been shrinking and thinning since 2000, driven by rising temperature and increased snowfall.

Compared with 20002010, the rate of glacier area shrinkage and surface elevation thinning in the Chinese Altai Mountains slowed down from 2010 to 2021.

It was found that the snow-cover depth and water equivalent increased significantly from 2000 to 2021, but the snow cover area showed a slight decreasing trend.

In addition, the researchers also showed that the permafrost area decreased and the active layer thickness increased in the Chinese Altai Mountains.

In general, the contribution of the cryosphere elements of the Chinese Altai Mountains to the runoff of the Irtysh River is about 41.9%, of which snow-cover meltwater contributes the most to the river runoff, about 37.1%, the glacial meltwater contributes about 2.9%~3.4%, and the permafrost contributes about 0.6%.

More information: Puyu Wang et al, Cryosphere changes and their impacts on regional water resources in the Chinese Altai Mountains from 2000 to 2021, CATENA (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.catena.2023.107644
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Credit: Cell (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.11.008

A new study led by UT Southwestern Medical Center molecular biologists presents a novel culture system to grow both embryonic and extraembryonic stem cells, potentially providing important insights into the genesis of congenital malformations and early developmental disorders.

Published in Cell, the report by an international team of researchers from the U.S., China and Japan outlines procedures for establishing a culture system that, for the first time, permits the simultaneous derivation and co-culture of stem cells from both embryonic and extraembryonic tissues.

"These findings represent significant progress in stem cell and developmental biology through the development of a unified stem cell culture system. The use of this novel system not only deepens our understanding of the interplay between embryonic and extraembryonic cells during embryogenesis but also sets the stage for the creation of more precise models of embryonic development and improved stem cell differentiation protocols," said lead author Jun Wu, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Molecular Biology and a Virginia Murchison Linthicum Scholar in Medical Research at UT Southwestern.

In addition to outlining the new unified growth conditions for embryonic and extraembryonic stem cells, the study reveals critical interactions between different embryonic and extraembryonic cell types, such as the growth inhibition of pluripotent cells by extraembryonic endoderm cells, and emphasizes the importance of cell-to-cell communication during embryogenesis. The study also identifies both common and unique factors involved in regulating extraembryonic endoderm stem cells across different species.

"This fundamental research in stem cell biology holds the potential to provide crucial insights into the genesis of congenital malformations and early developmental disorders. The insights derived from this study lay the groundwork for potentially preventive and therapeutic strategies for such conditions," noted Dr. Wu, a member of the Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine and the Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences at UT Southwestern.

"Overall, the ability to mimic natural embryonic environments in vitro can significantly advance the study of early human development and diseases, potentially leading to novel treatments and prevention strategies," said first author Yulei Wei, Professor in the College of Biological Sciences at the China Agricultural University in Beijing, who completed her postdoctoral training in 2022 in the Wu Lab at UT Southwestern.

The new findings build upon the Wu Laboratory's earlier work, which has contributed to the generation of novel stem cells for basic and translational studies. Researchers have identified several new types of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) with distinct molecular and phenotypic features from different species and generated PSC-derived interspecies chimeras and a blastocyst complementation system for the generation of organs and tissues. Most recently, Dr. Wu's group has developed strategies to generate stem cell embryo models for studying peri-implantation development in vitro.

In a 2021 study published in Cell Stem Cell, the Wu Lab devised a culture method that could generate an intermediate, also referred to as formative, state of pluripotent stem cells from the blastocysts of mice and horses. The current investigation discovered that the same culture condition can be used to derive both embryonic stem cells and extraembryonic stem cells, such as trophoblast stem cells and extraembryonic endoderm stem cells, from the blastocysts of mice and primates.

The new study furthers the Wu Lab's research into interactions between embryonic and extraembryonic tissues in early mammalian development utilizing stem cell-based embryo models. Previous work has successfully developed stem cell models of early mammalian embryos, including mouse, bovine, and human blastocyst-like structures (termed blastoids), as well as structures resembling the human peri-gastrulation stage (referred to as human peri-gastruloids).

The findings have the potential to impact research and therapeutic approaches for a variety of diseases and conditions, particularly those related to:

Developmental disorders: Understanding the coordination between embryonic and extraembryonic tissues can shed light on congenital malformations and developmental disorders that occur during early embryogenesis.

Placental abnormalities: Insights into trophoblast stem cells that contribute to placenta formation may improve the understanding of placental dysfunctions, such as preeclampsia or placenta accreta.

Regenerative medicine: The ability to co-culture embryonic and extraembryonic stem cells may enhance tissue engineering and the development of organoids. This could benefit conditions requiring tissue regeneration.

Cancer research: Since some cancers involve signaling pathways common to stem cell regulation, such as FGF, TGF-, and WNT, this research may contribute to understanding tumor growth and metastasis.

Reproductive health: The study may lead to advancements in fertility treatments by improving the understanding of early embryonic development and the implantation processes.
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The 25mm diameter silicon substrate used for the supermirrors. The conventional base coat that has already been applied creates a purple color impression. Credit: Valentin Wittwer

An international team of researchers from Austria, the United States and Switzerland have created the first supermirrors in the mid-infrared range. These mirrors are a key technology for many applications, such as optical spectroscopy of greenhouse gases or industrial lasers for cutting and welding. The results were recently published in Nature Communications .

In the field of high-performance mirrors, everyone is chasing the impossible: coatings with perfect reflectivity. In the visible wavelength range (wavelengths between 380 nm and 700 nm), advanced metal mirrors achieve a reflectivity of up to 99%, meaning one photon is lost for every 99 reflected photons. That may seem like a lot, but in the near-infrared range (between around 780 nm and 2.5 m), specialized mirror coatings have already achieved reflectivity of 99.9997%. This means that out of 1 million reflected photons, only three are lost.

There has long been a desire to extend this supermirror technology to the mid-infrared (wavelengths from 2.5 m to 10 m and beyond). This would allow significant progress in many areasfor example, when measuring trace gases that are related to climate change, but also when analyzing biofuels. In addition, many industrial and medical applications could be improved, such as cutting lasers and laser scalpels. So far, however, the best mid-infrared mirrors lose one in 10,000 photons, about 33 times worse than near-infrared supermirrors.

In the recently published study, an international team of scientists has now created the first supermirrors in the mid-infrared. Under the leadership of the Christian Doppler Laboratory for Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy and Semiconductor Optics (CDL Mid-IR) at the University of Vienna and the industrial partner Thorlabs Crystalline Solutions (Santa Barbara, California), the researchers were able to create mirrors that only lose eight out of 1 million photons. This means that these super mirrors achieve a reflectivity of 99.99923%. In order to achieve this record, the researchers had to precisely analyze and control the materials, the mirror design and the manufacturing process.

The highly reflective crystalline semiconductor structures. These are first grown on 10 cm gallium arsenide wafers and divided into smaller, round mirrors. Each of these round disks is then bonded to a prepared substrate to create a finished supermirror. Credit: Georg Winkler

New coating process developed

First, the researchers had to develop a new coating process. They combined conventional thin-film coating techniques with novel semiconductor materials and methods. This made it possible to overcome the material limitations in the difficult mid-infrared region. Oliver H. Heckl, head of the CDL Mid-IR at the University of Vienna, said, "This breakthrough shows the enormous potential in successful collaboration between innovative basic research and needs-oriented product development."

Garrett Cole, Technology Manager at Thorlabs Crystalline Solutions (TCS), explains, "This work builds on our pioneering work in substrate-transferred crystalline coatings."

However, manufacturing was only part of the challenge. The scientists also had to measure the mirrors precisely in order to prove their performance beyond any doubt. That was the main task of the two first authors, Gar-Wing Truong from TCS and Lukas Perner from the University of Vienna, who say, "As co-inventors of this novel form of coating, it was exciting to put these mirrors through their paces and thus confirm their outstanding performance."

An immediate application of these novel supermirrors is to significantly improve the sensitivity of optical devices for gas analysis in the mid-infrared. These devices can detect and accurately quantify tiny amounts of important environmental markers, such as carbon monoxide.

To demonstrate these possibilities, the team brought in experts from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). They confirmed the decisive advantage for ultrasensitive spectroscopy in the mid-IR spectral range, including the measurement of radioisotopes that are important for nuclear forensics and carbon dating.

More information: Gar-Wing Truong et al, Mid-infrared supermirrors with finesse exceeding 400,000, Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43367-z Journal information: Nature Communications
Many of us already enjoy the harmless functions of AI since they make our lives easier. Others, however, see the opportunity to use these tools and services to conduct fraudulent activities and spread misinformation. A new tool is now within our reach, and it could make the problem much worse.

Animate Anyone

There have been a slew of deepfake images and videos circulating around the internet ever since generative AI gave us tools to make them. People have had their voice and likeness cloned without their consent, usually for the creator's own gain.

Now, even those who are not as tech-savvy in AI generation can create deepfakes. A tool called Animate Anyone won't require you to apply complex edits to a photo to make it move realistically, which, as anyone can predict, can cause a whole new set of problems.

The new generative AI tool was developed by researchers from Alibaba Group's Institute for Intelligent Computing, as reported by Tech Crunch, and it attaches a base skeleton to the subject in the photo, which in turn will puppet its movements realistically.

Based on the demonstrations shown, it doesn't look like those awkward animations you see through ads, where the AI tool only affects the mouth part of the image, making it obvious that it was AI-generated. Animate Anyone operates on a different level.

The movement is smooth enough that if you don't pay attention to the minuscule details, you'd think that it is real. People on the internet aren't usually as critical of content, so it will most likely deceive a lot of people before it's taken down.

Previous AI animation tools tend to go overboard with their hallucinations. In case you don't know, AI "hallucinates" scenarios to determine how the subject would look in different positions. Since they're not entirely accurate, it makes editing more obvious.

As shown in Animate Anyone's video, they seem to have lessened the obvious flaws that other AI tools seem to produce. Some examples still show inconsistencies on the subject's face, but most are still impressive enough to seem real.

The fashion model, for instance, changes stances flawlessly. It's hard to determine whether it's a fake since even the clothing has its own effects. The physics of a dress flowing with movement is accurate, along with the waving of the sleeve as the arm moves.

Read Also: AI Deepfake Ad of MrBeast Offered iPhone 15 Pros for $2

How It Can Be Dangerous

Bad actors could already do so much with lesser versions of Animate Anyone, so you can imagine what they can do now with a more advanced AI tool. Several actors have already expressed their concerns over deepfakes in the last year alone.

Tom Hanks, for example, had his likeness stolen and used on a dental plan ad. The actor clarified on Instagram that it was not him and that he had no ties with the dental plan being advertised. "Avengers" star Scarlett Johansson also experienced the same thing.

The only difference is that the actress had her voice cloned, as per The Verge. Unlike the "Forrest Gump" actor, Johansson was not letting the AI app get away with it as she filed a lawsuit against the developers.

Related: Scarlett Johansson Goes After AI App That Used Her Voice in an Ad
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Terrorist attacks and mass shootings are devastating for the people and communities they affect. These events impact our society in many ways, including perhaps unexpectedly, by changing how big companies calculate and report their earnings.

A recent study by Professor Seda Oz from the School of Accounting and Finance at the University of Waterloo explains why.

"My research found that after major events like terrorist attacks, company managers often become more cautious. They start to think that negative events are more likely to happen, even if that's not the case. As a result, they are less likely to use creative accounting practices to make their company's financial performance look better than it is," said Dr. Oz.

The study, which is the first of its kind, looked at over 47,000 yearly reports from more than 5,600 companies and 716 major attacks in the U.S. between 2000 and 2020. It used data from well-known sources like the Global Terrorism Database and Mother Jones, along with corporate data from databases like Compustat and EDGAR.

The research showed that companies close to where these events happened were less likely to 'massage' their financial figures. This means they were more straightforward in their financial reporting. This change is particularly noticeable in companies that usually don't share much information with the public and those with more cautious annual reports.

Understanding these changes is vital for everyonefrom the everyday investor to policymakers. People evaluating companies with an eye toward investing in places where terror events have occurred should consider this shift in financial reporting behavior. Dr. Oz noted that the reporting changes could represent a critical factor in assessing the firm's future performance and investment risk. Policymakers could consider introducing mandatory stress tests or enhanced disclosure requirements for firms in regions experiencing a terrorist attack to help maintain market stability and investor confidence.

This paper is the first of its kind to study the role of availability heuristicsa type of cognitive bias that helps individuals make fast, but sometimes incorrect, assessmentswithin the realm of earnings management. Emotionally impactful events, including recent terrorist attacks and mass shootings, influence managers when they are making financial decisions by increasing their perceived probability of risk and negative future events.

This insight is key for understanding company behaviors, especially during times of crisis. It also suggests that companies might need to reconsider their internal policies to account for these psychological effects, which could lead to more ethical business practices and better regulations in the future.

The study, titled "The impact of terrorist attacks and mass shootings on earnings management," is published in the journal British Accounting Review.

More information: Seda Oz, The impact of terrorist attacks and mass shootings on earnings management, The British Accounting Review (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.bar.2023.101232
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Credit: Weiwei Chen

Upon their arrival in a foreign country, immigrants tend to be healthier than natives, but their advantage erodes with time, despite improvements in earnings and socio-economic status. A new study published in the European Sociological Review by Francesco Billari (a demographer at Bocconi Department of Social and Political sciences, as well as the University's Rector), with Osea Giuntella, Fabrizio Mazzonna, and Luca Stella, documents that the health trajectory is strongly associated to the evolution of sleeping behavior.

Immigrants sleep significantly more than natives upon arrival, but their sleep advantage dissipates with years spent in the host country. Since sleep deprivation has been linked to many chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and depression, the parallelism cannot fail to strike us.

The analysis conducted by the authors in Germany shows that, after 10 years, immigrants' advantage in sleep duration is reduced by up to 60% and their advantage in sleep satisfaction is completely erased.

Prof. Billari and his colleagues use data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP), which, among other things, has been collecting information about sleep duration and sleep satisfaction since 1984. Observing individuals aged 1859 at the time of the interview in the period 20082015, they obtained a final sample of 118,233 person-years from 33,143 individuals.

Immigrants upon arrival sleep about 23 minutes longer than natives, are approximately 52% less likely to sleep less than six hours and 39% less likely to sleep less than eight hours. They also are 14% more likely to be satisfied with their sleep. Less educated immigrants have a larger advantage, but it declines more rapidly. People with a wage below the median experience a similarly fast decline.

The erosion in sleep advantage seems to be correlated to the labor market. Less educated and poorly paid immigrants are more likely to have physically exhausting jobs with early schedules, and the decline in sleep duration and sleep satisfaction is largely driven by immigrants who start working between 4 and 6:30 am. No evidence of a significant decline in sleep duration among individuals starting work after 6:30 am is found.

"This pattern is consistent with the hypothesis that immigrants with lower levels of education may sleep less as a result of the higher levels of psychological stress associated with structural disadvantage and is consistent with previous studies on ethnic penalties in the labor market," commented Prof. Billari.

More information: Francesco C Billari et al, Unhealthy sleep assimilation, European Sociological Review (2023). DOI: 10.1093/esr/jcad065
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and the Hudson Valley AgriBusiness Development Corporation announced on Monday, Dec. 4, that Hudson Valley AgriBusiness has awarded $4.25 million to 26 projects in 19 counties across the state through the Meat Processing Expansion Grant Program.

HVADC is administering this state program, which helps processors to expand existing or to establish new meat processing facilities. The state expects processing capacity to rise by 4.8 million pounds annually.

The Meat Processing Expansion Grant Program was sponsored by Senator Michelle Hinchey to increase capacity of New Yorks processing facilities and support agribusinesses.

State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said the increased capapcity will make New Yorks food supply chain more secure and resilient as more product will be created locally.

This funding will help to grow businesses across the state, support our farmers and producers, and ultimately increase New Yorkers access to high quality, locally sourced meat, Ball said in a statement.

The program awarded 26 projects in total, prioritizing grants for 19 businesses that currently operate with USDA inspection status and that presented plans to expand their operations. Additionally, three processors with existing facilities seeking to move to USDA-inspected status were funded. Four start-up processors, which are planning USDA-inspected status at the conclusion of the project, were also included in this round of funding.

The $4.25 million in total grants contribute to total cumulative project costs of almost $9.5 million statewide.

The program helps to fund projects that support the expansion of existing USDA-inspected meat processing facilities and the establishment of new USDA inspected meat processing facilities in the state, press materials said.

The grant program makes it easier for beef, pork, lamb, goat, poultry, and seafood farmers to process their products and get affordable, local meat into a variety of markets, strengthening New Yorks food supply chain and rural economies.
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Hundreds of employees are set to return to work this week after a new contract between Atlantic City Electric and a local union was ratified Tuesday.

The ratification vote by IBEW Local 210 officially ends a monthlong strike, which led to Atlantic City Electric hiring contractors to perform electrical work throughout South Jersey.

We feel confident we bargained in good faith and reached an equitable and competitive agreement that is fair for employees and customers, Atlantic City Electric said following Tuesdays vote. We look forward to welcoming our employees back to work and value the continued and strong relationships with our labor unions and represented employees.

Zach Story, the unions business manager, said the two sides reached a deal Friday. Workers will return to work Wednesday with the ratification.

The members of 210 are ready to get back to work tomorrow and deliver the safe, reliable and efficient electric service that weve always done, Story said after the vote.

The union represents about 400 workers, who began striking Nov. 5 after a new contract could not be agreed upon.

Union members staged daily demonstrations outside the companys Mays Landing and Pleasantville facilities.

Throughout the strike, the unions leaders continually met with the electrical company seeking to reach an accord, including two days after it began.

Since the weekends announcement, workers have cleared the scenes of the strikes, where theyd been for weeks day and night.

Story said after the deal was reached Friday, messages were sent to union members.

It went out pretty fast, he said.

Picket lines were brought down Friday and Saturday while, behind the scenes, paperwork was being finalized, Story said.

The union said previously it was fighting for stronger health benefits and pensions as well as better protections involving subcontracting work.

The strike caught the attention of several local politicians, including U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew, R-2nd.

Atlantic City Electric on Tuesday did not disclose the contracts details in full but said it includes making Veterans Day a fixed holiday for union employees, increasing the total holidays for most workers by one day a year to 13.

The agreement also includes increases to minimum salaries, meal stipends, clothing allowances, shift differentials, as well as additional vacation days, military leave enhancements, training pay increases and a work-from-home option for certain classifications.

Atlantic City Electric, union workers reach tentative agreement to end strike Atlantic City Electric says it has reached a tentative agreement with its workers union. The new contract with IBEW Local 210 will include pay increases, more vacation and holiday time for employees and a work-from-home option for some.

The strike was the first staged against Atlantic City Electric by Local 210, which negotiated its first contract with the company in the 1940s, Story said.

Before early November, the union had come closest to striking against the company around 2005, Story said. Negotiations led to a mock strike before one could begin, he said.
ATLANTIC CITY  People will be able to report crimes and other incidents to police via a new website, the Police Department said Monday.

The Citizens Services Program website will let people report certain crimes and incidents, as long as there is no known suspect, no injury that occurred or physical evidence that needs to be collected, the department said in a news release.

Police encouraged the public to use the new reporting option because it is convenient and efficient. But people still have the option to call police to report a crime or to go to the Public Safety Building at 2715 Atlantic Ave.

Our goal with this program is to assist the public in being able to report certain incidents on their own terms without the need to report in person, said Chief James Sarkos. By reporting online, this will free up our patrol officers and allow them the opportunity to focus on other areas such as traffic enforcement and issues impacting the quality of life of our residents and visitors.

The incidents allowed to be reported include minor thefts under $200, such as a stolen bike, package thefts and thefts from an unsecured shed, police said in a Facebook post. People also can report lost property that has been dropped, missing or misplaced; identity theft, harassment or annoying phone calls; and vandalism that doesnt go over $500 in damage.

The person reporting has to complete basic info regarding their identity, along with details about the incidents or crimes. Theres also an option to add a picture or attachments if needed, police said.

Once submitted, the online report will be reviewed by police to make sure it meets the required criteria, and if it doesnt, an email will be sent to the reporting person saying they need to go in person to report the incident or crime.

The Citizens Service Program website is located at atlanticcity.prophoenix.com/#/home. A link also can be found at acpolice.org.
The parents of a Galloway Township teenager who died after a medical emergency on his way to school last year are suing the bus company that transported him.

In a lawsuit filed Friday, the family alleges Sheppard Bus Services Inc. staff were not properly trained to handle medical emergencies in children with special needs, causing 16-year-old Landon Goff to go about 40 minutes between his home and the school without medical aid.

They also hope their lawsuit can yield change for other families.

The last year, weve been left with more questions than answers, and you dont ever want another family to go through what were going through and another child to lose their life, Jennifer Spahr, Goffs mother, said through tears Tuesday at the DAmato Law Offices in Egg Harbor Township.

Goff died Dec. 4, 2022, three days after he choked on his saliva while on his way to the Cape May County Special Services School. He was a sophomore at the school at the time of his death, according to his obituary.

The teens death was preventable, the family and legal team say.

His parents are represented by Alexa DAmato Barrera.

Sheppard is represented by Robyn D. Kazatsky, an attorney with the LockGordon Law Group, who declined to comment Tuesday. A call to Sheppard also was not returned.

Atlantic County Institute of Technology celebrates the Class of 2022 Janish Suneja

The company operates and leases more than 600 school vehicles throughout the state, according to its website.

School district officials did not return a phone call seeking comment.

Goff was one of six children. He was a fan of horror films and television shows, specifically Chucky, according to his obituary. He also enjoyed paranormal activity shows.

He was described by his parents as an enthusiastic teenager despite living with Rett syndrome, a rare genetic neurological and developmental disorder that leads to the loss of motor skills and language, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Everybody loved him. Everybody remembered him, said Aaron Kizer-Goff, Landons father. Wherever we went, they always knew Landon. He was always so happy to see everybody.

Goff, Spahr said, began showing symptoms around 13. The disorder progressed to the point where the teen used a wheelchair.

Before this all happened, we were setting up his physical therapy, more extensive physical therapy, for him to regain his muscle movements to be able to walk again, Spahr said.

Goff was being driven to school by his regular driver and a substitute aide when he became unconscious, his parents said.

Once the bus arrived at the school in Cape May Court House, the bus driver alerted a resource officer that Goff was unresponsive, the lawsuit states.

Goff was brought to Cape Regional Medical Center before being airlifted to Nemours duPont Childrens Hospital in Wilmington, Delaware, where he later died. While at the hospital, he was on a ventilator.

His official cause of death was hypoxic brain injury and upper airway obstruction, the lawsuit states.

Under state law, the bus driver and aide should have intervened to help prevent the emergency from escalating, the lawsuit alleges.

The familys attorney said an investigation has been ongoing by the Cape May County Prosecutors Office, which did not return a request for comment.

Drivers and aides are required to follow procedures set out by the state Department of Education, the lawsuit states. Those include stopping a bus and calling for help while protecting students from possible hazards, the complaint states, citing state training standards for children with special needs.

A camera was on board the bus at the time of Goffs emergency but was not working, according to the lawsuit. The legal team said its unclear whether the driver or aide saw the teen in distress.

With minimal information about what led to Goffs death, his parents hope their lawsuit can uncover more about the incident, as well as lead to change to thwart student deaths under similar circumstances.

During that 40-minute drive, no one bothered to check on Landon, to use the radio, to pull over, call 911, Barrera said. Landons parents trusted that Sheppard Bus Services would bring their child to school alive and unharmed, and that is not what happened, and that is a violation of the law in New Jersey.

GALLERY: Parents suing bus company over son's death
Police from Atlantic City and Egg Harbor Township are among seven local agencies that used public funds to attend an unregulated training program held in Atlantic City that promoted unconstitutional law enforcement tactics and bias, according to a state oversight report.

The Office of the State Comptroller said Wednesday that an investigation into the 2021 Street Cop Training Conference found that about 240 New Jersey officers attended the event using taxpayer funds.

The event attracted about 990 officers from across the country, the report said. New Jersey entities collectively spent more than $75,000 on attendance.

The Brigantine, Hamilton Township, Pleasantville, Millville and Vineland police departments also had officers attend the event, the report said. Seventy-seven New Jersey municipal agencies, as well as the State Police and State Park Police, also attended.

Kevin D. Walsh, New Jerseys acting comptroller, called the multiday conference a pep rally for bad policing that taxpayers paid for.

The comptroller said the funding was used for direct payment or reimbursement for expenditures such as lodging and paid time off.

The event included seminars where speakers glorified violence through militarism and more than 100 discriminatory remarks, including vulgar comments about women and minorities, the report said.

Instructors talked about their genitalia, according to the report. One trainer spoke of going on vacation surrounded by girls that are not as wealthy and they need to do things to make money. Another advised women in attendance to flirt with their partners because if they dont, God knows there are some whores who will.

In another video, a trainer onstage discussed pulling over a 75-year-old Black man and showed a photograph of an ape. A speaker who was not a law enforcement official advocated for leveraging pain as a weapon during police work and celebrated savagery and drinking out of the skulls of our enemies, according to the report.

In still another video, a trainer talked about stopping drivers without cause and asking questions simply to develop a baseline. He went on to say: Then when you ask somebody a question and he answers it just weird youll be so much better at picking up on it.

That flouts clearly established law, the comptrollers office said, because officers cannot stop someone on a hunch.

They also cannot stop motorists when the sole reason is just to ask questions, it said.

Street Cop Training, which is based in East Windsor, Mercer County, was founded by Dennis Benigno, a retired New Jersey police officer who began his law enforcement career in 2001, according to the companys website.

Street Cop, which said it is the largest and most praised police training organization in the U.S., defended itself in light of the report, saying its attendees praise it as one of the best trainings they have received.

Before the investigation, the company said it was striving to impose stronger standards on language used during its training events.

Street Cop has saved the lives of uncounted police officers and citizens and has prevented untold numbers of illegal drug distribution and human trafficking, Benigno said in a statement. It is evident, however, that some in New Jersey do not want what Street Cop has to offer. As law enforcement professionals, we are saddened when any state in desperate need of training resources for its professionals actively declines that assistance.

Galloway Township family suing school bus company over teen's 2022 death The parents of a Galloway Township teenager who died after a medical emergency on his way to school last year are suing the bus company that transported him.

The 2021 event, held in early October at Harrahs Resort Atlantic City, was the companys inaugural conference. It included an array of speakers, including former Fox News host Tomi Lahren.

At one point in a presentation, Benigno adopted a warrior/enemy mentality, telling the audience why some police are treating this job like it wont take your (explicit) life in a second. He also encouraged police to treat every motor vehicle stop as if you are going to die and you might just live.

The company can teach what it wants, Walsh said Wednesday. Its a free-for-all. That has to change.

Egg Harbor Township police Chief Frederick Spano said he received the report Wednesday. After reviewing it, he said the department wont send its officers to events put on by the company, adding he plans to open an internal investigation into the departments attendance.

I am appalled that we sent personnel to this training, although Im sure if we had known about the information contained in this report prior to, we would not have sent anyone, Spano said.

Brigantine Mayor Vince Sera said Wednesday he was moving to prevent the citys police from attending future events by the company.

This is the first Im seeing this report, and Im deeply disturbed by the unconstitutional and discriminatory practices that were promoted at this training event, Sera said. Im certain that if the city had any prior knowledge of the deficiencies in the police training that was provided, the chief would not have sent any officer to attend.

Street Cop has received at least $320,000 from a mix of state agencies for other police trainings conducted between 2019 and 2022, according to records obtained by the comptroller. Further investigation showed this number to be drastically underreported, according to the report.

Police continue probe into crash involving Oakcrest student Hamilton Township police are still investigating after an Oakcrest High School student was hit by a car while exiting an after-school bus Monday.

Benigno has sued to stop the state watchdogs investigation into the company. Walsh on Wednesday declined to comment on where the litigation stands, saying only that several legal attempts to block his probe have gone in the comptrollers favor.

The report comes while New Jersey has sought to establish stronger police accountability.

The Attorney Generals Office has, within the past few years, updated its guidelines regarding use-of-force practices and procedures. The office said Wednesday it is reviewing the comptrollers report.

The conference in question, which took place before my tenure began, included instruction and comments that are deeply troubling, potentially unconstitutional, and certainly unacceptable, Attorney General Matthew Platkin said in a statement. The reports findings are disturbing and not consistent with the states commitment to fair, just, and safe policing. I have formally referred the report to the Division on Civil Rights to take any and all appropriate steps.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
WEST WILDWOOD  More than 13 acres have come on the market in this tiny borough, potentially the site of the largest development project the community has seen for decades.

What will happen to the undeveloped stretch of marsh and trees will depend a great deal on who buys it, and possibly even more on what the state will allow.

Some portion of the area is definitely wetlands, said Tai Menz, the Realtor listing the property.

Youll be able to build on it somewhere, Menz said Monday. That just comes down to finding the right buyer and figuring out a way to move forward.

One parcel, described in the listing as 0 Center Ave., includes more than 12 acres, running from near the West Wildwood fire station on North Drive to a section just past Bay Avenue on the northwest side of the community. The asking price is listed at $5,999,999.

A second property, at 1.77 acres, sits in the middle of the other property and is listed separately at $1.5 million. Menz said both parcels were once owned by the same family, but that portion had been sold some time ago.

West Wildwood is one of the smallest municipalities in New Jersey, with a little over 600 residents on three-tenths of a square mile, mostly covering a small back-bay island connected to Wildwood by a two-lane bridge. In the busy summer, there are about 5,000 people in the community.

The properties in question stretch along about a quarter of the island and are officially part of the municipality, according to Elaine Crowley, who is the boroughs Planning Board secretary along with other roles at Borough Hall.

Theres no water. Theres no sewer. Theres no streets. All of that would have to be developed, Crowley said.

Could new plans bring progress to long-dormant Wildwood bayside property? Its been decades since a bayfront area of Wildwood has been declared in need of redevelopment, and still longer since it was used as a municipal dump. A new proposal will finally resolve environmental issues, according to a consultant.

Menz, with Coastline Realty, has copies of plans for the properties showing streets and maps, as he said it was planned to be part of the borough.

It was meant to be developed at some point, he said. The combined properties would have enough developable land for houses, condos, a hotel or marina or another plan.

Menz is pragmatic about the development opportunities. If someone paid the asking price, the cost of preparing plans and acquiring the needed state and local approvals would likely be millions of dollars more, before any work could begin.

Its essential to acknowledge that this is a sold as-is transaction, but no worries you have probably done this a time or two, our information has been derived from public sources, reads the posted description of the land. The responsibility for securing approvals, including local and state permits, as well as CAFRA and DEP authorizations, rests with the buyer.

That will include determining how much of the property is wetlands, which are strictly protected. Most of West Wildwood is zoned residential, but most of these properties are listed as marine commercial, Menz said. Two sections are in the conservation zone.

As he described it, the properties make more sense if thought of as blocks, rather than lots, and the listing shows where planned streets would be on the old maps.

There are multiple marshy private islands dotting the bays between the mainland and the beach resorts of the barrier islands of Cape May County. Most have seen use by duck hunters and others, such as Cowpens Island off Ocean City that had literally been used as grazing pasture more than a century ago.

In 2022, the owner of No Mans Island near West Wildwood offered the 19-acre parcel for $125,000, down from the original $200,000 asking price. There did not appear to be any chance it could be built on, and aside from several stories from Philadelphia and North Jersey media, there did not seem to be much interest.

Cape May opens new firehouse Firefighters from throughout Cape May County and beyond joined officials and residents for the opening of the new $5.13 million headquarters of the Cape May Fire Department on Wednesday.

Menz said he sold that island to its current owner for about $7,500, one of several parcels his father owned as part of a duck hunting business decades ago. He does not believe there is any possibility the state would allow construction there, but does believes there is potential for the West Wildwood site, describing trees and shrubs as well as tidal streams and marsh grass.

Larry Hajna, a spokesperson for the state Department of Environmental Protection, said he could not comment on a proposal that has not been submitted, much less one that has not even been planned yet.

The DEPs Coastal Management Program outlines state authority over the coastal zone under multiple state acts and rules, including the Coastal Area Facilities Review Act, which is better known as CAFRA; the Wetlands Act of 1970; the Waterfront Development Law; the Coastal Zone Management Rules and others.

The listing has drawn some interest from national home construction companies and other potential investors, but there is nothing solid yet, Menz said. A buyer would need deep pockets.

Its a large project, he said. Once the amount of wetlands have been determined, once plans are drawn and a likely lengthy approval process undertaken, any development would need electricity, sewer and water lines and roads to serve the property.

You have to factor in infrastructure costs. I think everybody would be realistic, he said. That could mean finding other areas to offset any proposed wetlands disruption or even adjusting the asking price based on the level of interest from buyers.

Obviously, theres a value to it. Its figuring out what that value is, Menz said.
PHOTOS: GAURAV KADAM & OSHWIN KADHAO

Over the past weekend, as the sun set over the Teerth Fields, the festival ground for the 14th edition of BACARDI NH7 Weekender, the energy soared to new heights with stellar performances by an eclectic mix of musicians headlining the the happiest music festival. The grand culmination of the BACARDI NH7 Weekender, known for its diverse mix of genres and diverse lineup, lived up to its reputation with unforgettable performances from headliners. MIA, the Grammy Award-winning artist, stole the show with her energetic and groundbreaking performance.

The audience go Tunak Tunak Tun with king of bhangra Daler Mahndi

The crowd danced to her chart-topping hits, and MIA's stage presence was nothing short of electrifying Oaff & Savera, alongside a special act by team Kho Gaye Kahan featuring Siddhant Chaturvedi, Ananya Panday, and Adarsh Gourav. Bhangra king, Daler Mehndis infectious beats and energetic stage presence had the audience dancing in unison.

P Towns very own MC Stan

Euphoria 25, celebrating a quartercentury in the industry, delivered a performance that transcended generations and brought a nostalgic wave. MC Stan and Gully Gang brought the contemporary sounds of Indian hip-hop to the forefront. The rising star's raw and authentic lyrics resonated with the youth, while Gully Gang's collective energy showcased the power of the burgeoning hip-hop movement in the country.

British rapper M.I.A takes the crowd on a musical joyride

Like every year, the festival took pride in being an inclusive festival, welcoming music enthusiasts from all walks of life. On day two, the all-female live performance was a fitting tribute to women musicians. The festival's commitment to diversity was not only reflected in its artist lineup and attendees  festival-goers were seen enjoying the music with their furry companions.

Palash Sen adds a sense of nostalgia to the air, the collective Euphoria celebrates 25 years

Make way for Gully Gang

The cast of Kho Gaye Hum Kahan, Siddhant Chaturvedi, Adarsh Gourav and Ananya Panday, rocks the stage
A Brazilian city council signed an ordinance without knowing that it was secretly authored by ChatGPT.

Porto Alegre city councilman Ramiro Rosario disclosed on X (formerly Twitter) that he used the AI tool to entirely create the proposal to test ChatGPT's capabilities.

According to Rosario, he asked ChatGPT to create a legislative bill to prohibit the city from charging taxpayers for new water meters if it was stolen. The whole proposal was made in 15 seconds.

A primeira lei brasileira feita exclusivamente por inteligencia artificial esta vigente em Porto Alegre!



Ela nao tem nada de ideologica. Ao contrario, e bem comum. Ela impede a cobranca pela prefeitura de hidrometros furtados. Alias, passaria despercebida se eu nao contasse. November 29, 2023

Ignorant to Rosario's experiment, his fellow lawmakers passed the legislation, and has been enacted since Nov. 23, six days before the councilman revealed his actions.

The counselor reasoned that he did not disclose that an AI wrote the proposal much earlier to ensure "the process progressed without any external interference."

Rosario feared that other lawmakers' prejudice against AI would prevent the bill from being voted on.

The politician said the experiment was done to raise "the debate surrounding the beginning of a great technological revolution."

Porto Alegre is the second largest city in Brazil with 1.3 million population and one of the highest GDP contributors per capita to the country's economy.

Cases of ChatGPT Being Used by Lawmakers

Rosario is not the first lawmaker, nor will be the last, to ever try to apply AI tools in policy deliberations in the local government.

Massachusetts Democratic Senator Barry Finegold also hired the help of ChatGPT to write a bill to regulate artificial intelligence models.

While in favor of using AI tools in the lawmaking process, Finegold is critical that everyone knows that AI was used in the process. Finegold's bill is yet to be voted on.

A similar case happened when a Costa Rican legislator used ChatGPT to draft a proposal to govern AI systems within the country.

OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, warned lawmakers to be "critical" in regulating AI because of the "serious risks" it could create.

Also Read: OpenAI CEO Concerned About AI Interference in 2024 Elections

US Stance on Using ChatGPT in Lawmaking

US President Joe Biden already expressed doubts about the innovations in AI, especially the risks it poses to society, the economy, and national security.

A blueprint to regulate AI across the country has already been drafted. The bill remains under deliberations.

Related Article: President Biden Thinks AI 'Could Be' Dangerous, Tells Tech Companies to Ensure Their Products' Safety
Dear PSF,

We, organisers in the pan-African Python community, would like to raise some concerns and frustrations that have been brought to a head by recent events.

We held the first-ever DjangoCon Africa in November, a flagship event for our community, and the first Africa-wide Python event since 2019s PyCon Africa.

The PSF Board approved a grant of USD 9000 for the conference (six days, 200 people). The event was a significant success, and the PSFs support was key to that.

Delays in the grant award process

As acknowledged in the PSFs article, September & October Board Votes, there were however some problems leading up to the grant decision.

First, the Grants Working Group was unable to come to a consensus on the request, so the decision was passed to the PSF Board. The Board was also unable to come to a consensus in its September meeting. Finally in the Boards October meeting, the grant was approved. That was just a few weeks before the event started, nearly three months after its submission.

Effect of the delays

We would like to share a statement from the organisers of DjangoCon Africa describing the effect of these delays on the event and on them personally.

For a considerable period of time, we were in doubt about a significant portion of our expected conference budget - from the PSF, whom we expected to be a steadfast ally and backer. During that time, we felt quite stuck - unable to make decisions. Our daily conversations became centred around anxious what-if calculations. At one point we had reduced our budget for catering to a total of 5 USD per person per day, for breakfast, lunch and refreshments - even in Zanzibar, this is an unfeasibly low figure. We jettisoned one item after another from our budget. We were unable to make decisions about financial assistance, which in turn delayed our ability to make decisions about the programme (how could we invite a speaker whom we knew would require some funds to travel if we couldnt provide the funds?). We watched as the air-fares we had expected to cover for many of those people rose. We had to answer all the people who couldnt understand why we hadnt decided on their talk proposals and grant applications, or who wondered why an event starting so soon had not yet even published a programme of talks. What are we supposed to say to these people? became another anxious topic in our meetings. We felt unable to advertise or promote the event, because we simply didnt know what we could promise people. Some of the people affected had applied for visas - incurring expense - well in advance, on our advice; they too were waiting to hear back from us. Locally, we had caterers and other businesses waiting for deposits and confirmation of contracts. Some lost patience with us. The local PyCon Tanzania organisation bore the brunt of this. The organisation of DjangoCon Africa must have looked lazy, or incompetent, or worse, to someone looking at it from the outside. The delay in a decision on funding from the PSF also made it harder for us to approach other organisations for funds - Is the PSF sponsoring DjangoCon Africa? Why not?. Its hard to describe the embarrassment we felt sometimes. We had sleepless nights with worry - literally, not figuratively. More than one of us confided in another that we wished we had never started the project. We started a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe to help cover the cost of financial assistance. It was a comfort to know that members of the international Python/Django community would stand up to support us, but the pleasure and gratitude we felt about that was overlaid with a feeling of humiliation that once again, a major African open-source software event had been obliged to publicly extend a begging-bowl. At one point, gaps in our funding meant that the organisers faced a personal liability of almost USD 10,000 - funds actually spent, or committed, to make the event possible. For any volunteer conference organiser, the weeks in the run-up to an event are full of hard work. This experience went far beyond that. Much of the pride and joy of staging DjangoCon Africa was sucked out of it for us. Eventually, we received the grant funding we had applied for, though even this seemed to come with a humiliation: it happened after a white European spoke up publicly on behalf of the African Python community. By the time we were able to start taking care of travellers who needed financial assistance, many of the air tickets had gone up significantly in price. Amongst the hard choices we had to make: one of our own organisers - a student, who has worked tirelessly in multiple events - was unable to attend because we could not afford to pay for her travel. The organisers personally contributed well over USD 4000 to make the event possible in the form it took - funds contributed to a cause that we believe in, but it is not right that volunteer organisers of community events should be forced to make such choices. We are genuinely grateful for the support we received from the PSF. The event was a success, and we are proud of what we achieved, but we remain perplexed and hurt by the problems we faced, and how our grant request was treated.

Problems within the PSF?

Its not clear to the wider African Python community why events unfolded in this way, though we are aware of some things that we have found very troubling.

We know that there are some extraordinary attitudes at work within the PSF. A PSF Board member once openly expressed the opinion that Anglo cultures always seem to be the ones that take the moral lead around the world, leaving others to follow their example. From any non-western perspective, this is an astounding idea to receive.

In the case of DjangoCon Africa, the first public response to our event on Mastodon was a negative response from a PSF Director, that in effect, cast doubt on the whole idea of a DjangoCon in Tanzania.

Thats not a solitary episode. We understand that (notwithstanding the PSFs ambition to support Python in Africa) a PSF Director has consistently spoken out against funding for African events, over a period of years.

Our grant request was handled by the PSFs Grants Working Group. We understand that one member of this group was able effectively to stall its decision-making long enough that the grant request had to be passed to the PSF Board.

At the PSF Board meeting in September 2023, a board member strategically used an abstention to ensure that a resolution to support our request could not pass. (Under the PSF rules, had they voted against the resolution, it would have passed 4-1. In the circumstances, other abstentions for different reasons - including one person who was required to abstain, as an organiser of DjangoCon Africa - meant that the resolution could not pass.) We are genuinely shocked by this. Its one thing for a PSF Board member to vote against something they dont believe in. It is quite another that someone has been able to weaponise the PSFs voting system against an African event.

We are deeply troubled that such behaviours and values are actively at work inside the PSF. As an organisation, the PSF (and its Board and Working Groups and their processes) should be robust enough to stand up to individual prejudices, and not allow decision-making and deliberation to be derailed by individuals, however influential.

The PSF and marginalised and at-risk groups

We understand that the argument against support for DjangoCon Africa was that the host country, Tanzania, is not a safe place for the LGBTQIA+ community.

The PSF represents a global community, and has for years upheld high standards of inclusion and protection, paying special attention to the needs of those in marginalised and at-risk groups. Python community events around the world are effective safe spaces, that give strength to people who do not always find guarantees of safety elsewhere.

It is therefore especially shocking to have observed an attempt, coming from within the PSF, to pit the well-being and interests of two different excluded groups against each other, as if somehow the interests of members of the LGBTQIA+ community and of Africans are mutually exclusive.

Many questions can be asked about this reasoning.

What counts as safety? Which places in the world are truly safe for LGBTQIA+ community? How much of a city, or state, or country needs to be LGBTQIA+ hostile for the whole of it to be declared unworthy of PSF support? What does the PSF have to say to LGBTQIA+ community members in such locations? Are the LGBTQIA+ communities who are worthy of the PSFs consideration only those who live in western countries, or do others count too? What does the PSF have to say to Python community organisers around the world who assert the communitys standards of inclusion, even in countries where it takes an act of bravery to do so?

And we would like to ask: when have questions been raised to check on whether western events present potential safety risks to non-western attendees, and when have non-western people been asked for their experiences?

All across the world, including the west, there are countries and places that are genuinely unsafe for members of particular groups, on the basis of their religion, ethnicity, language, gender, sexuality, nationality and other characteristics. Some of these risks may be obvious to westerners, or native English speakers, or men, and some of them may not. Simplistic judgements made from narrow perspectives will not enhance the safety of anyone in our community.

Risk and the law

The PSF and its directors quite correctly also observe the laws that apply to them. Yet we have witnessed discussions in which it has been proposed that volunteer organisers take public stances in their own countries that are not just contentious or socially unacceptable, but would actually violate local laws.

In one recent example, voices on the PSF Board were demanding that a condition of funding for a particular PyCon be the formal adoption of a human rights plan - a measure that would pose a significant legal and personal risk to its organisers.

The entitlement and assumption of cultural superiority embodied in these ideas are absurd and offensive.

Guidance and consideration for non-western Python events grant awards

At a meeting earlier this year, the PSF expressed concern that barely 16% of grants go to African communities.

At the same time, the perception within some African Python communities is that the PSF is less likely to award a grant to an African event, or will scrutinise it more harshly, or take longer to make an award.

For example, in 2019 and 2020 one Ugandan Python community made two grant requests that we understand received literally no response. In 2022, another grant request finally received attention from the working group when - with the event coming up in a matter of days - one of the PSF Directors connected to the community raised the issue with PSF staff, and a vote was initiated immediately.

This can be contrasted with the way a grant request for a European event was handled, at around the same time; the European request was made later, and dealt with sooner.

Inconsistency, lack of transparency and lack of clarity around expectations serve to undermine trust and confidence. The general perception within the Ugandan Python community is now that their events will only be given consideration if a PSF Director happens to take a personal interest in it.

In fact, other African organisers have reported timely responses and good communication from the PSF, so what is happening here?

Do some African grant requests lack quality or detail, because organisers failed to understand what was required? Are there enough people in the PSF with an adequate understanding of the challenges faced by non-western events? Is there a pattern where weaknesses in a grant request made from some regions in the world are given the benefit of the doubt, while others are treated less favourably?

We simply dont know, and there could be a whole range of explanations. Whatever the underlying reasons, we need to understand and work together to address them, because the effects are harmful.

Our requests to the Python Software Foundation

Transparency

We request that the PSF undertake and publish a review of actual grant applications, to determine whether there indeed are differences in grant responsiveness, approval times, rejection rates and so on in response to requests from different regions.

We would like the PSF to publish clear expectations of timelines for handling grant requests, and for each final decision to be accompanied by a report showing how the case was actually handled.

Guidance and feedback

Organisers, and especially those operating without the benefit of long-standing networks of knowledge and shared expectations, need more guidance, and feedback they can act upon, especially in the case when a grant is rejected.

We ask that the PSF commits to developing - in collaboration with organisers, especially those in non-western regions - further materials and guidance to help organisers put in the best possible requests for funding. This could include a more proactive approach to working with those organisers to help them understand the PSFs expectations and standards.

We request that the PSF institute a practice of providing clear feedback to grant applicants, to help improve and motivate subsequent applications. In cases of delay or doubt, we would like a practice of prompt, direct engagement with organisers to help clarify.

Understanding of global needs

We ask that the PSF as an organisation commits to a better understanding of global diversity and the realities, needs and challenges of non-western events and organisers.

This includes an understanding of financial realities. For example, the organisers of African events face the combined difficulties of lesser commercial sponsorship prospects, the expense of intra-African travel, vast geographical distances and so on. We need the PSF to understand these realities in its decision-making about financial awards to events.

The law and marginalised groups

We request that the PSF undertake a formal review of policies and bylaws, that incorporates expert legal advice and takes full account of the realities of laws and legal regimes across the world that apply to volunteer Python community organisers.

We recognise that all across the world, Python events are proposed in places where laws and practices mean that the rights of some individuals will be in jeopardy. We would like the PSF to recognise, formally and in its actual practices, that this includes the west, and that it is not only non-western events that should be subjected to critical scrutiny over this.

We also ask the PSF to adopt a constructive stance that requires all local organisers, wherever they may be, to consider the safeguarding of marginalised groups, and actively helps them improve safety, without ever demanding that volunteers be willing to violate local law or place themselves at risk while doing unpaid work on behalf of the PSF.

Progress, prejudice and confidence

In the past ten years, Python in Africa has developed with remarkable speed and success. In 2014 there was just one African PyCon, in South Africa. Since then PyCons and other events have been held all over the continent, and the communities behind them have grown in size, confidence, expertise and influence.

We can trace the introduction of Python teaching in universities across Africa and its spread across multiple commercial and non-commercial sectors to our work.

We have been generously supported, financially and morally, by the Python Software Foundation. Leaders like Ewa Jodlowska and Naomi Ceder have been part of that growth due to intentional support for our communities.

This has been a story of growth, motivation and courage.

More recent experiences have left us feeling hurt and angry. We hear voices, openly and confidently raised within the PSF, that denigrate us and our communities, that dismiss our experiences, that doubt our values, and harm us materially.

Our confidence in the PSF, and the confidence of many other people in our communities, has been shaken. Our motivation has taken some hammer blows. The work of the last decade risks being set back.

Constructive collaboration

We want to work with the PSF on everything addressed in this letter, in the spirit of constructive collaboration. We are willing to put our energies into building better practices and understanding. We want to be part of a solution to the concerns.

We ask the PSF to recognise our concerns, and not just to take them seriously, but to commit to working with the African Python community to address them, so that we do it together.

Sincerely,

Python Communities in Ghana, Namibia, Nigeria, Uganda, Tanzania, Mozambique South Africa, and Zimbabwe.

Abigail Mesrenyame Dogbe (Python Ghana)

Aisha Bello (Python Nigeria)

Anna Makarudze (Python Zimbabwe)

Chukwudi Nwachukwu (Python Nigeria)

Daniele Procida (Python Namibia)

Eusebio Simango (Python Mozambique)

Jessica Upani (Python Namibia)

Joannah Nanjekye (Python Uganda)

Julius Moshiro (Python Tanzania)

Mannie Young (Python Ghana)

Marlene Mhangami (Python Zimbabwe)

Noah Maina (Python Tanzania)

Sheena OConnell (Python South Africa)
A Tuesday status conference in Scott County court provided further detail about the consolidation of the various lawsuits related to the deadly collapse of a Davenport building.

The May 28 partial collapse of the six-story building at 324 Main St. killed three people, cost a fourth her leg, displaced all surviving tenants and led to the demolition of the building.

The collapse also spawned numerous lawsuits. As of Tuesday, attorneys have filed eight active lawsuits on behalf of about 20 plaintiffs. Almost all are former tenants of the building or their next of kin.

The suits name about a dozen defendants, including developer Andrew Wold, Davenport Hotel LLC and the city of Davenport. The plaintiffs allege the defendants negligence led to or contributed to the collapse and the losses they suffered because of it.

In September, District Court Judge Mark Lawson ordered a limited consolidation of the suits for the purposes of the parties sharing information and filing motions. He did so based on a motion filed by the counsel of plaintiff Dayna Feuerbach.

On Tuesday, after about 90 minutes of discussion between the parties, Lawson went over the initial next steps toward completing the consolidation.

Those steps included plaintiffs attorneys creating a master petition and further work by all of the attorneys in developing a schedule for sharing information, deposing witnesses and beginning mediation between the parties.

What I want to see is just good progress, Lawson said near the end of Tuesdays conference.

The plaintiffs master petition would incorporate all of their allegations against all of the defendants in a single document. The plaintiffs attorneys proposed it in an initial consolidation report prepared ahead of Tuesdays conference.

That report, filed on Friday, included opinions and recommendations from attorneys on both sides of the case.

The master petition could include new plaintiffs and defendants, according to the Friday report.

Once the plaintiffs file the master petition, counsel for the various defendants can then respond to the allegations and take other actions, such as filing motions to dismiss counts against their clients, according to the discussion during the conference.

Such motions already filed by the defendants in the individual suits will be on hold.

At least for pretrial purposes, the master petition would replace the separate petitions the plaintiffs have filed in their individual lawsuits, according to the discussion during the conference. If the courts try a specific plaintiffs claims individually, that case can be separated from the master file.

In coming days, the attorneys will present further proposals and recommendations to Lawson who will then review them and make a ruling that will further define the consolidation.

Since the early stages of the collapse litigation, there has been the possibility of it becoming a class action.

No decision was made about creating a class action on Tuesday.

In the initial conference report filed Friday, attorneys on both sides of the collapse suits agreed it is too early to determine whether the litigation will be a class action.

In a class action suit, the court identifies a person or small group of persons to represent a larger number of people who have common characteristics or interests, according to the Iowa Judicial Branch website. Criteria for creating a class action in Iowa include situations where the group of people in question is large and the individuals share a question of law or fact related to the litigation.

Tuesday demolition at The Davenport
A Scott County judge overruled the Davenport City Councils decision to remove Derek Cornette from his 7th Ward seat, citing that the council did not provide a written explanation of its reasoning for the decision.

However, the city filed an appeal Wednesday and the court granted a stay as the case is appealed. Cornette was not seated at Wednesdays council meeting.

The city council voted 7-3 on Sept. 7 to remove Cornette from the 7th Ward office following months of complaints of what the court called crass and erratic behavior.

Cornette sued to prevent the city from removing him from the office and asked the county court to declare the citys procedures violated Cornettes due process rights and prevent the city from appointing a temporary alderman.

Cornette lost his bid for reelection, and newly elected Davenport resident Mhisho Lynch was sworn in to fill the vacant seat on the council Nov. 21. New council members are typically sworn in at the start of the new year.

Judge Henry Latham cited a 2017 Iowa Appeals Court case Burke vs. City Council of City of Lansing, in ruling for Cornette. In that case, the Court of Appeals found that the city council needed to provide a written explanation of its reasoning, and that not doing so violated due process rights.

Here, the city has not provided a written explanation of its reasoning, Latham wrote in his 16-page decision. This failure impedes the courts  and Cornettes  ability to assess the rationale behind the removal.

Latham did not take issue with other complaints from Cornette and his attorney in the removal process. Latham notes that city council removal proceedings are not trials. Iowa code stipulates that the city council must identify one of eight grounds for removal, hold a hearing on the charges, and the vote must attain a 2/3 majority to remove the official.

He stated that the citys charges of willful misconduct or maladministration and of intoxication are sufficient to sustain removal.

Latham did not agree with attorney Mike Meloys argument that Mayor Mike Matson and Alds. Kyle Gripp and Maria Dickmann shouldve recused themselves from the proceeding. Gripp was the intended recipient of a voicemail from Cornette in which he uses vulgar terms for male and female genitals. Dickmann told Cornette f*** you as he sat down before the vote. Latham stated that the two aldermens actions did not rise to the level of violating Cornettes due process rights.

Latham stated that Gripp did not testify during the hearing, that there was no evidence that he coordinated litigation strategies, and that his only role was as recipient of Cornettes vituperations.

It would be a strange result that rewarded a defendant for offending every member of the body tasked with adjudicating his case, Latham wrote.

This is a close case, Latham wrote in his conclusion. City Council removal proceedings are not judicial in nature, they do not need to abide by every nicety of the law court. But, in this case, the council failed to provide the irreducible minimum of due process.

Cornette intends to attend the councils Wednesday night meeting as the 7th Ward alderman, Meloy wrote in an email.

Cornette expects that the city council, the mayor or any other city employee or official will not interfere with his court-ordered rights to sit at the dais, participate at the meeting and exercise all rights as an alderman at tonights meeting, Meloy wrote.

Also on Wednesday, the city filed an appeal to the Iowa Supreme Court, according to court documents. The court ordered to stay proceedings and Lynch took the 7th Ward seat at Wednesdays council meeting, not Cornette. Cornette did attend the meeting. He sat in the audience dressed in a suit.

Its typical for the Davenport city council to meet for only one cycle in the month of December, meaning there will only be one more meeting next Wednesday until the new council is sworn in in 2024.

Cornette after the meeting told reporters he was very pleased with the ruling. He said he understands he won't retain his seat again with so few meetings left, but said he wants to clear his name in court.

"The next steps for me are one, clearing my name. Because I think if you take some of the things that the people were complaining about out of context, it sounds like I'm terrible," Cornette said. "But I'm not. I'm just a really nice, friendly guy with old southern values."

Cornette said he feels he wasn't given enough time during the hearing to refute the allegations against him. He said he plans to run again for city council.

He added that he has "no qualms" over the voicemail he left for Gripp, in which he calls him vulgar slang for female and male genitals.

"I said it, and I'll stand behind it," Cornette said.

Asked if he regretted any of his words or actions, Cornette said: "I regret that I may have made people feel uncomfortable, but that was never my intention."

Update: This story has been updated with the stay on the ruling and information from Wednesdays city council meeting.
CEDAR RAPIDS  Two teens, friends since high school in the Quad Cities, died in a fiery car crash last week that also claimed the lives of a mother and her 13-year-old son.

Cedar Rapids police have not said what they believe led up to the four fatalities, and a public safety spokesman did not say whether there were any other passengers.

The two-vehicle crash occurred at 9:56 p.m. Friday near the intersection of C Street SW and Edison Road. First responders said the occupants were trapped, and one of the vehicles was on fire, when they arrived.

On Tuesday, police released the names of the three adults killed in the crash and verified that a 13-year-old also died, without providing his name. However, the names of the mother and son were known earlier after a social media fundraiser was posted to raise money for the family.

The adult victims were identified by police as Casey Krager, 18, of Davenport, Carter Cooper, 18, of Bettendorf, and Ruta Tekeste, 52, of Cedar Rapids.

The two 18-year-olds were high school friends who were attending college in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City, according to their families.

Krager was a freshman studying business at the University of Iowa, but he hadnt fully decided what he wanted to specialize in. He played baseball through high school, but had decided not to pursue athletics in college, according to his father, Jeffrey Krager.

He was very driven by the power of success and where it can lead you, he said. He started planning his future younger than most people do, and he knew he was going to be successful no matter what it was.

His son was close with his family and had a lot of close friends, Jeffrey Krager said. The teen had been friends with Cooper during high school, but the father said he didnt know him or his family very well before the crash.

I got a phone call late Friday evening, Dec. 1, from a local police officer who asked if I was at home. I was not. He informed me that he was at my house, at my front door. I am a bar owner locally and he said, Are you down at the bar? and I said, I am. He said, OK, well be down there in a minute, Jeffrey Krager recalled.

I knew why they were coming down. I didnt want to know, but I knew. They dont just come down to see you just to tell you something kind of bad happened. They came down and they told me, and I think my world came crashing to an end right then and there.

Cooper was studying to become a firefighter at Kirkwood Community College, according to his brother, Kainan Cooper.

A GoFundMe page started to raise funeral funds for the mother and son killed had raised $29,253 as of Tuesday afternoon. Family members of Tekeste and her son declined to speak with The Gazette. According to the GoFundMe page, her son was born in Egypt and moved to the United States with his mother in 2014.

According to the Iowa Department of Transportation, the last time a crash in Iowa killed four people at once was Jan. 27, in Grundy County. There have been eight crashes in Iowa this year that killed at least three people.
A Scott County Sheriffs deputy faces a charge of driving while intoxicated after he was stopped last week in a work vehicle.

Christopher Philip Carter, 35, of Princeton, Iowa, was stopped by a Scott County Sheriffs patrol at 3:18 a.m. Friday, Dec. 1, in the area of 240th Avenue and 257 Street in rural Princeton.

Carters preliminary breath test showed he had a blood alcohol concentration level of .182%. The legal standard is .08%.

Scott County Attorney Kelly Cunningham asked the court on Monday to appoint a special prosecutor to the case. Muscatine County Attorney, James Barry, indicated that he or a designated assistant from his office would be willing to serve in such capacity, according to court documents.

Carter was stopped while driving a black 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, a van registered to the Scott County Sheriffs Office. The arrest report said Carter had bloodshot watery eyes, slurred speech, and was unsteady on his feet. Carter had a strong odor of alcoholic beverage on his breath. I spoke with Carter seated in my patrol vehicle and continued to smell the strong odor of alcohol.

Scott County Sheriff Tim Lane confirmed Carter was driving the vehicle in conjunction with his work duties.

(Carter) was outside his work hours, Lane said. He was on his way home from a duty assignment.

This is a severe breach of trust. There is just no other way to say it.
WHAT WE KNOW: Before retiring early this year, Orion water superintendent Arnie Sandberg warned the village some major repairs to the system would be necessary. Trustee Mel Drucker on Monday called Sandberg a "MacGyver" who was adept at finding ways to keep the water system up and running although it was "now time to get things up to code."

WHAT'S NEW: Robert Britton of Britton Electronics and Automation talked to the village board about both temporary and permanent repairs to control panels at the east and west well houses.

It was thought the village might have a potential problem with the pump at the west well house which could cost $49,000, but now it's considered to be a wiring problem, which would be considerably less expensive. Britton said the way the system is built, the motor goes from zero to full blast in two-tenths of a second, creating shock waves that cause fractures in the lines.

A fix would be to turn the system on (and off) in five seconds. Despite a number of problems, he said Orion's system was "not the worst I've seen by any stretch, I'll tell you that right now."

Britton told the board he would have cost estimates for them for the Dec. 18 meeting.

WHAT'S NEXT: Village president Jim Cooper said he and Trustee Drucker talked with Illinois Department of Transportation officials about access to Interstate 74. He said the officials will consider an emergency access gate with a lock. Cooper said it's not something the village is going to pursue, but it's up to the state to take care of it.

Cooper also said he is planning to reach out to the other taxing districts regarding the proposed extension of Orion's TIF district, putting a plan in front of them.

"Hopefully we can get them all to extend it," he said. "This has just been hanging over our heads for way too long."
CEDAR RAPIDS  Two teens, friends since high school in the Quad Cities, died in a fiery car crash last week that also claimed the lives of a mother and her 13-year-old son.

Cedar Rapids police have not said what they believe led up to the four fatalities, and a public safety spokesman did not say whether there were any other passengers.

The two-vehicle crash occurred at 9:56 p.m. Friday near the intersection of C Street SW and Edison Road. First responders said the occupants were trapped, and one of the vehicles was on fire, when they arrived.

On Tuesday, police released the names of the three adults killed in the crash and verified that a 13-year-old also died, without providing his name. However, the names of the mother and son were known earlier after a social media fundraiser was posted to raise money for the family.

The adult victims were identified by police as Casey Krager, 18, of Davenport, Carter Cooper, 18, of Bettendorf, and Ruta Tekeste, 52, of Cedar Rapids.

The two 18-year-olds were high school friends who were attending college in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City, according to their families.

Krager was a freshman studying business at the University of Iowa, but he hadnt fully decided what he wanted to specialize in. He played baseball through high school, but had decided not to pursue athletics in college, according to his father, Jeffrey Krager.

He was very driven by the power of success and where it can lead you, he said. He started planning his future younger than most people do, and he knew he was going to be successful no matter what it was.

His son was close with his family and had a lot of close friends, Jeffrey Krager said. The teen had been friends with Cooper during high school, but the father said he didnt know him or his family very well before the crash.

I got a phone call late Friday evening, Dec. 1, from a local police officer who asked if I was at home. I was not. He informed me that he was at my house, at my front door. I am a bar owner locally and he said, Are you down at the bar? and I said, I am. He said, OK, well be down there in a minute, Jeffrey Krager recalled.

I knew why they were coming down. I didnt want to know, but I knew. They dont just come down to see you just to tell you something kind of bad happened. They came down and they told me, and I think my world came crashing to an end right then and there.

Cooper was studying to become a firefighter at Kirkwood Community College, according to his brother, Kainan Cooper.

A GoFundMe page started to raise funeral funds for the mother and son killed had raised $29,253 as of Tuesday afternoon. Family members of Tekeste and her son declined to speak with The Gazette. According to the GoFundMe page, her son was born in Egypt and moved to the United States with his mother in 2014.

According to the Iowa Department of Transportation, the last time a crash in Iowa killed four people at once was Jan. 27, in Grundy County. There have been eight crashes in Iowa this year that killed at least three people.

How do people die in U.S. traffic collisions? How do people die in U.S. traffic collisions? What events or objects cause the most traffic deaths? Other vehicles cause the most traffic fatalities, but there are a surprising array of other causes Regional differences paint an unusual picture of national road safety The most common cause of fatal crashes in each state
As a pulmonary critical care specialist, Dr. Cassondra Cramer-Bour knows intimately what RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, can do to a persons lungs.

So she was thrilled in July when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a new antibody designed to prevent severe disease in babies with RSV, and she wanted to get it to protect her then-6-month-old daughter, Kate.

She knew that RSV season was coming up and that babies like Kate can get into trouble quickly if the infection fills their tiny airways with fluid, making it difficult to breathe.

But Kates pediatrician didnt have any doses of the new immunization, Beyfortus, which was initially recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for all babies younger than 8 months who were entering their first RSV season.

In October, manufacturer Sanofi said demand had outstripped the supply it had planned for and warned that the 100-milligram doses, the ones given to babies Kates age, were scarce. The CDC subsequently recommended that doctors prioritize 100mg doses for babies with underlying medical conditions and those under 6 months of age.

Kate was mostly healthy, so Cramer-Bour didnt search further to find a dose. She now wishes she had.

Knowing how sick she got, I definitely would have taken a vaccine if it was more easily available, she said.

Rocky rollout leaves babies unprotected

Parents have been eagerly awaiting the new immunization, which clinical trials found to be 75% effective at preventing RSV infections severe enough to be seen by a doctor. Many were willing to shoulder the full $500 cost out-of-pocket to get it, as RSV is the No. 1 cause of hospitalizations in infants in their first year of life.

But this therapy that hinted at ending bad RSV seasons as we know them has been sidelined this season by concerns about cost, reimbursement and shortages. Without it, babies are still getting very sick.

On Monday, Oct. 30, Kate came home from day care with a cough. A kid coming home from day care with a runny nose, cough or goopy eyes can feel like an almost-everyday event, so the cough didnt cause immediate alarm for her parents. But by that night, the cough became more frequent, so Cramer-Bour and her husband, James, decided to play it safe and keep Kate home the next day. The plan was for James to watch Kate during the day while Cramer-Bour, who was working nights, slept.

When she woke to take over late Tuesday afternoon, Kate was still coughing, but she was playing and drinking and didnt have a fever, so Cramer-Bour left for work as usual about 5:30 p.m.

About 10, her husband started sending her videos of Kate. She didnt seem like herself, and he was worried. She was breathing a little fast: 40 to 60 times a minute.

Cramer-Bour showed the videos to some of her colleagues, who agreed that her daughter looked sick.

Her husband brought Kate to Childrens Hospital of Michigan in Detroit to have her evaluated around 11 p.m. Kate was still happy and playing, but her chest was moving a lot with each breath, the small muscles around her ribs drawing in, indicating that she was working very hard to breathe. Her heart rate was high, too.

I think initially the emergency department was thinking, Oh, maybe we can give her a breathing treatment. You know, shell kind of turn around and go home,  Cramer-Bour said. But thats not what happened.

She got worse and worse, she said.

On Wednesday, Kate was admitted to the hospital and given a device called a high-flow nasal cannula to help get more oxygen into her lungs.

Cramer-Bour said her daughter seemed to be stuck in a seesaw pattern. She would improve and perk up for a bit, but then something would happen, and she would get worse again. By that night, she had been moved to the pediatric ICU for a higher level of breathing support. They gave her oxygen with some pressure to help get it into her lungs. That helped reduce the work of all the tiny muscles around her ribs that were laboring to help her breathe.

That kind of helped to stabilize her, but she hit a plateau and just didnt get better, Cramer-Bour said.

Watching her daughter struggle to breathe through those long days and nights was terrifying.

Everything in my training told me that this person needs to be intubated and put on a ventilator, and of course, thats the rescue therapy, she said, the last-ditch effort to support a persons breathing through a crisis.

I was just so scared that was what was going to happen to my baby, she said.

Lingering questions about supply

When Beyfortus was approved over the summer, AstraZeneca and Sanofi, the two companies that manufacture the drug, said it would be available for babies in time for RSV season this year.

Concerns about insurance reimbursement and cost kept many pediatricians and hospitals from ordering right away. But just as the CDC and payors had worked out a way to resolve some of those issues  offering doctors and hospitals new flexibility to order and pay for the expensive shots  the manufacturers announced that they wouldnt be able to fill orders.

Theres a great deal of frustration with this situation, said Dr. Sean OLeary, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Childrens Hospital of Colorado.

We all saw all these hurdles that we were going need to overcome to get this done this season, and a lot of people spent a lot of time and worked really hard to make it happen, and then the shortage, said OLeary, who is also a spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics.

On November 10, AstraZeneca CEO Pascal Soriot told Reuters that the company would prioritize the US market for additional doses of Beyfortus this year.

On November 16, the CDC and FDA announced that they had expedited the availability of 77,000 additional 100-mg doses of Beyfortus and that these would go to government and private programs.

About 3.8 million babies are born in the US each year, and Beyfortus is recommended for all of them, OLeary said. So 77,000 doses is a lot of doses, but in the grand scheme of things, its not that many relative to how many we need. It does not resolve the shortage.

Last week, White House officials met with AstraZeneca and Sanofi to discuss the manufacturing, distribution, and accessibility of Beyfortus. In a memo about the meeting, the White House said senior administration officials underscored the importance of manufacturers such as Sanofi and AstraZeneca working to meet demand with a sense of urgency heading into the winter season. They also said they worked on starting to plan to meet next years projected demand.

AstraZeneca declined to answer specific questions about the number of doses of Beyfortus that have been produced or shipped this year.

The demand for Beyfortus has far surpassed any previous standard, the company said in a statement to CNN on Monday. But it declined to offer any specifics about the standards it was referencing or its planning.

Although we are on track to deliver all doses initially ordered in the US, we are committed to doing more, and we are pleased to confirm that in collaboration with the CDC and government agencies we are accelerating delivery of additional doses this calendar year. We will also continue to work to accelerate supply, the statement said.

OLeary said pediatricians are hearing it might not be coming in time to make a difference this season. Basically, what we have been told is that if you havent ordered already, youre not getting anything, and if you have ordered, you might get some of it, he said.

Antibody therapies like Beyfortus, which are grown in living cells in bioreactors, take an extended time to make. Its not easy for companies to quickly generate more. OLeary, who is also a vaccine adviser to the CDC, said it was his understanding that Beyfortus production takes nine months.

And as RSV season nears its peak, hospitals say they are once again trying to manage an influx of babies who need help to breathe. It wasnt supposed to be this way.

Were busy, and its frustrating that were busy because for the first time in human history, weve got a way to prevent RSV, but were still struggling to get monoclonal antibodies into the babies that need it, said Dr. Buddy Creech, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The supply is just not there. I think it will be in the future, but this is a tough transition year.

It hasnt helped that RSV season got off to an early start in some areas, just as it did the year before, said Dr. James Versalovic, who directs diagnostic and laboratory medicine at Texas Childrens Hospital.

We saw a dramatic increase beginning in mid-September, with sustained high activity through the months of October and November, he said.

Versalovic said he doesnt see Beyfortus or a new maternal immunization from Pfizer, which is given to pregnant women to protect infants in the first few months of life, making a dent in case numbers yet.

This is the case of probably too little, too late, he said. We just began receiving antibodies to deliver to patients right at the same time that RSV was cresting in this surge. I dont think we can say that nationally its made any impact in terms of overall numbers of infections.

Sharing her story to help other families

After three days in intensive care, Kate Cramer-Bour finally started to improve.

Her heart rate started to come down, and she wasnt having fevers anymore, her mother said. So that was really when it felt like OK, were probably through the worst of it. 

She was finally discharged from the hospital five grueling days later, she said.

I would have just given anything to just take it away, Cramer-Bour said. I think thats how most parents would feel.

But they werent alone. Friends would drive from 45 minutes away to drop off a casserole or scoop out litter boxes. The family needed all the help they could get.

Hospitalizations are a very big deal for a family, OLeary said. Even a short hospitalization of a day or two is a big deal. But a lot of these hospitalizations are much longer than that.

If a child ends up on a ventilator, they might go on to have longer-term health problems, too.

For now, Cramer-Bour says, they are grateful to be home and grateful Kate is back to her happy and healthy self.

But they also face a different dilemma: whether to get Beyforus for her this year, if they can find it.

Vanderbilts Creech says the immunization is still recommended for babies who have recently recovered from RSV, but because those infants are likely to have generated their own strong immunity from their infections, many pediatricians are wondering whether the scarce shots should go instead to babies who havent caught the virus.

Cramer-Bour says shell follow her pediatricians recommendation. Shes also trying to share her story on social media to help make other moms aware that there are vaccines this year for mothers and babies that can prevent what happened to them from happening to another family.

Thats been my big focus, is talking with my friends who are pregnant, she said of Pfizers maternal vaccine. That vaccine is a lot more freely available.

___

How your address could determine your heart health How your address could determine your heart health Impacts of redlining practices remain Chronic diseases are more common in redlined neighborhoods How preexisting conditions play a role
Revival of a southern Amtrak route across Montana gets a boost this week when the Biden administration awards $500,000 to the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority.

The funding keeps the planning alive for an alternate Chicago-to-Seattle Amtrak route connecting communities like Fargo, Bismarck, Billings, Bozeman and Missoula. Known as the North Coast Hiawatha, the route existed through the late 1970s when cuts to Amtrak ended the service.

Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority Chairman David Strohmaier said with the award, the rail authority will begin working on a service development plan and cost estimates. The North Coast Hiawatha is a 2,200-mile route with multiple state transportation departments and tribal governments along the way. Those government agencies and other stakeholders will be getting involved in a planning process expected to take six to eight months.

Planning will include addressing conflicts with other train traffic on the line as well as making plans for depots, either returning old facilities to service, or new construction, Strohmaier said.

The funding comes from the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Tax Cuts and Jobs Act passed in 2021. The spending package included $12 billion for passenger rail.

U.S. Sen. Jon Tester praised the award in a press release.

I fought hard to ensure that we invested in renewed Amtrak service, and I cant think of a better place to explore than the North Coast Hiawatha route. I was proud to help secure this funding and designation that will help fuel the next stage of the project, and I look forward to working with the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority to make their vision a reality.

Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority members have argued that the rail line would create the only public transit between Southeastern and Western Montana.

Amtraks Empire Builder is the current Chicago-to-Seattle route that runs across the Montana Hi-Line.

The Department of Transportation also awarded $14.9 million to improve Empire Builder route infrastructure near Malta. The funding, which Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority applied for with Amtrak will, among other things, extend the rail siding in Malta to 3 miles, a length long enough to allow one train to pull off the main track without stopping while another locomotive passes.

"We've said all along that our goal to reestablish passenger rail service in southern Montana is not to be seen as oppositional to the Empire Builder," Strohmaier said. "Because Malta is such a pinch point, anything that can be done to enhance freight and passenger rail service there ripples out on the entire Empire Builder route, including after Sandpoint (Idaho) where these two trains share a line."
The Chabad Jewish Center will host its annual menorah lighting ceremony in Hamilton on the first night of Hanukkah, Thursday, Dec. 7.

Hanukkah, also spelled Chanukah, is Judaisms festival of lights. For eight consecutive nights, Jews gather with friends and family to celebrate and add a candle to the menorah. Hanukkah will be celebrated from Dec. 7 through Dec. 15 this year.

Hanukkah means dedication in Hebrew. The holiday marks the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem in the 2nd century BC, after a small group of Jewish fighters liberated it from foreign forces.

With the small supply of oil that they found in the temple, they lit the menorah, which stayed lit for eight days. The lighting of the candles, as well as the emphasis on cooking foods in oil such as potato pancakes called latkes, memorialize this miraculously long-lasting oil.

The Hamilton menorah lighting will take place from 5:306 p.m. at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds in Hamilton. Jelly donuts, hot latkes and drinks will be served. Organizers ask that those planning on attending RSVP at JewishMissoula.com/chanukah.
Report on advancing inclusive, just and resilient energy transition launched at COP28

Xinhua) 09:57, December 06, 2023

DUBAI, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- A report on advancing inclusive, just and resilient energy transition was launched here Tuesday, a day themed on energy at the ongoing COP28 climate change conference.

The report, titled "Inclusive, Just and Resilient Energy Transition: GEI Solution and Practices," revealed that even though energy investment has grown rapidly, global energy supply remains tight.

It stated that a green and low-carbon transition has been set as a clear goal worldwide in order to achieve sustainable development and address climate change.

The report was released by the Global Energy Interconnection Development and Cooperation Organization (GEIDCO), an organization launched in Beijing, China in 2016 with the purpose of promoting the establishment of Global Energy Interconnection (GEI) to meet global power demand with clean and green alternatives.

According to the report, development of global clean energy is far beyond expectations, and the proportion of renewable energy capacity continues to rise.

In 2022, about 320 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity was added globally, and the cumulative total volume has reached 3,380 gigawatts.

Stressing that the year 2023 is a key milestone in the implementation of the Paris Agreement, the report said calls had been made for global efforts to accelerate clean energy development, expand just energy transition, and promote climate resilience.

Amid global response to climate change, all countries are promoting green and low-carbon energy transition and striving for greater emission mitigation ambitions, the report said.

Fossil fuel and related energy consumption industries require industrial development transformation and employment structure adjustment, and sustainable energy development is facing multiple challenges.

Therefore, the report urged that the energy system is in urgent need of an inclusive, just and resilient transition to meet the challenges.

The key to realizing the inclusive, just and resilient energy transiton is to build a modern energy system that is clean-led, electricity-centered, interconnected, multi-energy collaborative, smart and efficient, the report said.

According to the report, GEI is a new power system with clean energy as the mainstay, strong and smart power grids as the platform, and multi-energy complementation and mutual supply, coordinated power source-grid-load-storage interaction, and integration and conversion between electricity and other energy resources as features.

Based on the GEI carbon neutral solution, the report proposed an innovative, holistic, scientific and feasible global energy transition scheme, which can coordinate the inclusive, just and resilient transition of global energy, accelerate the green and low-carbon transition of global energy, address climate change, and realize sustainable development of humanity.

COP28, or the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, is being held here from Nov. 30 to Dec. 12.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Amazon has been linked to many controversial issues over the years, but they have been about unfair treatment towards employees most of the time. Now, the retail giant is being slapped with a lawsuit after selling spycams on its site, which led to the illegal use of the buyer.

Amazon Sells Bathroom Spycams

A former Brazilian foreign exchange student who used to live in West Virginia filed a lawsuit stating that she was spied on for months in her private bathroom. This was done through a spycam that looked like your ordinary towel hook.

Amazon believed that they were blameless since they weren't responsible for alleged crimes their customers had done, but a West Virginia judge says otherwise as he rejects the retail giant's motion to dismiss.

The plaintiff argued that the spycam was already inspected by Amazon's safety team three times and still did not see the potential harm that the product could cause. This reasoning was also hard to ignore, considering the screenshot of the product.

The listing's photo shows the product with captions stating that "it won't attract attention" and that it is "a very ordinary hook." Since the descriptions were approved, it seemed like Amazon was okay with the suggestive caption.

Based on the description, it appeared like the product was meant to "record private moments in a bathroom." US District Judge Robert Chambers expressed that "Amazon cannot claim shock when a consumer does just that," as mentioned in Ars Technica.

He stated that Amazon sold a camera, knowing that it would be used to record a third party in the bathroom. Given that it was a spycam, it was also inferred that the recording would be done without the consent of the subject.

The plaintiff even accused the retailer of conspiring with the seller to "market and distribute a defective product both knew was intended and used for illegal and criminal purposes," with the company even boosting the product's sales.

It gets worse for Amazon since the offense was not limited to violating the privacy of the plaintiff. The camera was also used to record footage of a minor. The judge says that if proven, the physical harm to the plaintiff will be considered severe.

He argued that the harm is of such magnitude due to the emotional trauma inflicted during a child's "tender years," which could have an "indelible effect" that they cannot recover from. In the event that Amazon loses, the company could potentially answer for punitive damages.

Read Also: Post Offices Are Reportedly Prioritizing Amazon Packages Over Regular Mail

What Are Hidden Cameras for Anyway?

Hidden cameras or spycams can actually be beneficial when used properly. This can be installed in your home to keep an eye on your family or watch out for intruders who might easily spot obvious CCTV cameras. Amazon even has a listing of a towel hook camera now despite the lawsuit.

These spycams are usually in the form of everyday objects that can hide in plain sight in living rooms, kitchens, and even outdoors. However, it's an entirely different story when it comes to towel hooks, which are usually placed in bathrooms.

We don't have to tell you how private bathrooms are. So when Amazon sells towel hooks with spycams, it's safe to say that they are not for safety purposes. This is exactly what makes it hard for Amazon to argue that the product is harmless.

Related: Amazon's iRobot Acquisition is Facing Objections from EU Regulators
Ravalli County Democrats will be hosting a holiday party meet-and-greet event on Sunday, Dec. 10 with gubernatorial candidate Ryan Busse and candidate for secretary of state, Jesse Mullen.

Busse, a 53-year-old Kalispell resident and former Kimber firearm sales executive who once chaired the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers North American board of directors, is challenging Gov. Greg Gianforte in the November 2024 Montana governors race.

Im really worried about the way in which Gianforte and the Republican super-majority are attacking the state, Busse told Lee Newspapers in September after announcing his candidacy. He said what pushed me over the line were housing affordability and tax policies enacted in recent years to assist corporations and the wealthy.

Busse has developed a growing public profile after authoring the book Gunfight: My Battle Against the Industry that Radicalized America.

His two sons were also part of the landmark climate trial, Held vs. State of Montana, that took place earlier this year.

Mullen, based out of Deer Lodge, will be challenging incumbent Christie Jacobsen for Montanas secretary of state position. Mullen is a small-business owner and founder of the Mullen Newspaper Company. He ran for the Montana Senate in 2022, but ultimately lost the race by 10 points.

Ravalli County Democratic Chair Linda Schmitt said the event is open for the public to get to know the candidates, and that they would each be given time to speak.

What we want to do is introduce these candidates, so people can see them and hear them in person, she said.

The Ravalli County Democrats' holiday party and meet-and-greet will be held at the Rocky Mountain Grange in Hamilton from 6-9 p.m. on Sunday Dec. 10. Music will be provided by Cork N Spark. Attendees are encouraged to bring a pot-luck dish to share as well as a pair of new socks for donation. For more information go to https://ravdems.com/.
Governor Greg Gianforte's office on Tuesday said it will assemble a property tax task force in hopes of wrangling rising costs on Montana homeowners.

The governor's office said it envisions a task force similar to the Housing Task Force it gathered last year that forwarded specific legislative proposals to lawmakers during the 2023 session. The property tax task force will be appointed in January, Tuesday's press release said.

"We have a model that works: our housing task force delivered meaningful solutions and results, and Im confident that the property tax task force will do the same," Gianforte said in the release.

The announcement follows months of uproar following the Department of Revenue's two-year appraisal cycle that saw property values jump by a median value of 45%, largely in western Montana.

While county commissioners around the state have criticized Gianforte and the Legislature for failing to tamp down the tax rate for homeowners during the legislative session, the governor has pointed to the property tax rebates he ushered through the session to help homeowners weather the storm.

"While these property tax rebates will help in the short term, we need long-term reforms to keep property taxes as low as possible, and we must be deliberate and thoughtful as we develop, enact, and implement those solutions," Gianforte said in the release. "Our property tax task force will deliver an actionable plan to rein in property taxes for legislators to consider for their next regular session in January 2025."

"Leading legislators in tax policy, stakeholders and others will be at the table," Gianforte added.

Gianforte said Tuesday that the rebates will "more than offset" the average Montana homeowner's property tax increase. Asked for a dollar figure for that average increase, Gianforte press secretary Kaitlin Price said the revenue department found the statewide average increase for homeowners' property taxes between fiscal year 2022 and fiscal year 2023 to be $343.23.

It remains unclear whether the task force will include any county officials who challenged the Department of Revenue in court over school equalization mills would be appointed to the task force. Amid the property tax surge, all but seven counties rejected levying those full 95 mills, collected by the state to level out funding between richer and poorer school districts, until the Montana Supreme Court shut down that revolt last month.

A week later, a group of lawmakers triggered a poll of all 150 legislators to consider gathering in Helena for a special session to consider new tax policies. The results of that poll are not due back until later this month. If approved by lawmakers, the special session would take place in January, along the same timeline of the property tax task force's appointments.
Before Tim Sheehy was the frontrunner in Montanas 2024 Republican primary for U.S. Senate, the ex-Navy SEAL, aerial firefighter, millionaire business owner, part-time rancher and occasional political donor was a 2004 graduate of a Minneapolis-St. Paul area private high school who grew up in a lake house outside Minnesotas Twin Cities.

Sheehy emerged earlier this year from relative obscurity as a top recruit of the National Republican Senatorial Committee  the organization tasked with winning back a Republican majority in the U.S. Senate  in its quest to topple three-term incumbent Jon Tester, the only Democrat left in Montana with a statewide constituency. But even as Sheehys name recognition in Montana has grown  and his electoral viability against both possible primary challenger Matt Rosendale, a Republican congressman, and Tester along with it  little information has been made public about Sheehys biography before he came to Montana in 2014, or before he enlisted in the military a decade prior.

Where was Sheehy born? has become a persistent question in the in-boxes of Montana Free Press reporters.

The answer: Sheehy was born in the Twin Cities area and grew up in Shoreview, Minnesota, Sheehys campaign told MTFP last week.

Based on public records, press clippings and a lengthy statement from the Sheehy campaign, MTFP has pieced together some basic facts about Sheehys life before he entered the political limelight. (Sheehys campaign did not make the candidate available for an interview in time for publication). In brief: He grew up in a multimillion dollar lake house, learned to fly under the tutelage of a neighbor, attended a private high school, graduated at the top of his U.S. Naval Academy and Army Ranger School classes, sustained multiple injuries while serving in the Navy, and ultimately was medically separated from the military in 2014. The next year, Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke  also a former SEAL  awarded Sheehy a Bronze Star and Purple Heart, the first time the two met, according to Sheehys campaign.

Family was, and remains, very important to the Sheehys. Sheehy was never interested in politics, but leading a life of mission-oriented service always motivated him, the campaign said in a statement. In the Summer of 2021, after watching the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, Sheehy heard the call of service again and decided to get involved in politics.

Sheehy had never run for office before declaring for the Senate in June, but he had pre-existing connections with many prominent Montana Republicans, including U.S. Sen. Steve Daines, who chairs the NRSC, and Gov. Greg Gianforte. According to Federal Election Commission records, he made his first political donation in 2012, when he gave $250 to Mitt Romneys presidential campaign. In 2016 he made his first donation to Greg Gianforte, who was running for governor at the time. In 2018, he began donating regularly to Daines and continued his support for other Montana Republicans. According to state campaign finance records, hes also donated almost $40,000 to various state and local committees affiliated with the state Republican Party.

When national outlet Axios broke the news in March that Republicans were close to confirming Sheehy as a candidate, Montana Republicans showered him with praise.

Tim Sheehy is a good friend, a successful businessman and a decorated veteran who served his country with honor and valor. Montana and our nation would be better for his continued public service, and Im confident without a doubt he would serve Montana well as a senator, Gianforte said in a statement to Axios at the time.

Still, his campaign launch was met with pointed curiosity from both the right and the left that, to varying degrees, stemmed from one question: Who exactly is this guy? Tester is one of Montanas best-known political quantities, an 18-year veteran of the U.S. Senate and of leadership positions in the state Legislature before that. Sheehy, aside from being described in national media as a friend of people like Daines and Gianforte, had no such record.

For the grassroots movement, and people who knock doors and put up the signs and are busy for conservative Republican candidates, we have no idea who Tim Sheehy is  its Sheehy who? Dr. Al Olszewski, chairman of the Flathead County GOP, told the Daily Caller, a right-wing news site, in July. Hes a ghost, he has not been involved in local politics or statewide politics.

In the months since his campaigns June launch, more about Sheehys history has emerged. He has a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star from his military duty in the Middle East. After moving to the Bozeman area in 2014, he founded the aerial firefighting company Bridger Aerospace and an affiliate company, Ascent Vision Technologies, the latter of which he sold for $350 million in 2020. The same year, he and a business partner purchased a series of adjoining ranch parcels in Martinsdale and started the Little Belt Cattle Company. Later, national media reported that he had never paid livestock registration fees at the ranch  an error he subsequently remedied.

He currently owns luxury properties in Big Sky and on Flathead Lake, and maintains a primary residence in Bozeman.

The early chapters of his life, though, have remained obscure.

Shoreview, Minnesota, is a city in Ramsey County with a population of about 26,000 as of 2021. Its an 18-minute drive from the heart of Minneapolis. It was there, in a house on Turtle Lake, that Sheehy, the child of Richard and Denise Sheehy, grew up. Richard, according to LinkedIn, owned a financial services firm. He has one brother, Matt, with whom he later founded a cattle company along with other business partners.

According to property records, the four-bedroom house was built on an original 1930s homestead. As recently as 2016, when Sheehy donated to Gianfortes first and ultimately failed run for governor, he listed the Shoreview house as his residence. In 2017 his parents sold the property for $2.2 million, according to Ramsey County property records.

He grew up with access to boats and jet-skis, according to his parents Minnesota vehicle registration records, which MTFP obtained through government records database LexisNexis. The campaign said he spent much of his youth learning to fly with his neighbor, a Navy veteran named Harry.

I had my first flight in a plane when I was 8 years old with my neighbor who was a former Navy pilot, and he lived on a lake with us and had a floatplane, he said on a 2021 radio show. So, actually, one of my very first flights was in a seaplane, and that cinched it for me that I knew aviation would be a part of my life going forward. And I actually soloed an airplane before I got my drivers license.

In 2004, Sheehy graduated from St. Paul Academy, a private preparatory day school where the annual tuition currently costs about $36,000.

He enlisted as a Navy midshipman shortly after graduating. Sheehys campaign said he participated in several deployments and hundreds of missions while in the military.

During this, he sustained several injuries of varying degrees of severity, including concussions, bullet wounds (with one bullet still in his arm today), and shrapnel hitting his right leg and head. Sheehy sustained his final injury flying in a minisub during a training mission, the campaign said. He left the Navy in 2014.

By that time, his campaign said, he had already visited Montana multiple times as a child and while on training missions during his military service. In 2011, his wife, Carmen, a Marine, visited Montana, and they cemented a plan to move to the state, the campaign said.

In 2014, Sheehy and a business partner founded Bridger Aerospace, the aerial firefighting company headquartered in Belgrade, near Bozeman. He was attracted to the area because of the natural beauty and the research assets of Montana State University, the campaign said.

Sheehys campaign said he and Carmen accessed startup capital for the company through their personal savings, a Veterans Administration loan, and investments from members of Sheehys family. Today, the vast majority of Bridger Aerospaces income comes from federal contracts.

One of Sheehys business partners, Sam Beck, developed an in-house camera and sensor technology at Bridger Aerospace. That technology was spun off into Sheehys second business, Ascent Vision Technologies, which produced the first drone ever to be used on an active wildfire.

A firm called CACI International acquired the company for $350 million in 2020, providing a major windfall for Sheehy. Since 2020, FEC records show, Sheehy has donated tens of thousands of dollars, either directly or indirectly, to Montana Republicans.

The success of the Sheehy businesses enabled the creation of the Sheehy Family Foundation, a charitable investment organization through which the Sheehys have donated significant sums to the Montana Historical Society, Bozeman Health, Billings Clinic and others.

Today, Sheehys total net worth, buoyed by between $16 million and $44 million in dividends from investments, is between $74 million and $200 million, which would make him one of Congress wealthiest members if he is elected. Tester also is a millionaire through his agricultural holdings, with assets of between $1 million and $5 million. Gianforte, a fellow former Bozeman-area entrepreneur, was himself once Congress richest member.

(The personal assets of federal lawmakers and candidates for federal offices are reported to Congress in broad ranges).

Democrats in particular have sought to attack Sheehys lack of deep Montana roots, a well-worn campaign tactic it last employed in Testers defense in 2018, when the party branded challenger Matt Rosendale Maryland Matt.

Jon Tester has farm equipment thats been in Montana longer than Tim Sheehy, Monica Robinson, a spokesperson for the Montana Democratic Party, said when Sheehy launched his campaign.

Many of Montanas statewide officials originally hail from elsewhere, including, to varying degrees and definitions, Gianforte, Daines, Rosendale, and State Auditor Troy Downing. And several, like Sheehy, emerged from the business sector of Gallatin County, where they became wealthy and connected to the states political network.

Whether anything in Sheehys profile  his wealth, his relatively recent arrival in Montana  will hurt him on the campaign trail against the self-described dirt farmer Tester, born and raised in Montana, is an open question. What is known is that Sheehy is far from the first transplant to seek higher office in Montana.

[Democrats] trot it out for every cycle, whether theyre born and raised Montanans like Ryan Zinke who happen to have a house elsewhere to folks like Steve Daines who kind of has a complicated origin story to people like Sheehy and Rosendale who really have no connection to the state, Kal Munis, a Montanan and Utah Valley University political scientist whose research interests include political activity in Montana, told MTFP when Sheehy launched his campaign. Theyve kind of overplayed it. But then the other important bit [is] there are so many Montanans now that arent from Montana. And these messages dont resonate with them.
Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly described broadcasts of the Pearl Harbor attack. This version has been corrected.

It was a typical Sunday afternoon in Richmond. Women went about their daily chores, pulling the wash off the line and putting up holiday decorations.

Some were on their way to and from relatives and friends houses. Others were relaxing around the house ahead of another work week.

Meanwhile, nearly 5,000 miles away, a couple of hours behind at the Gibraltar of the Pacific," 102 vessels laid anchor at the Hawaiian island port Pearl Harbor. In an instant, 352 planes burst through the clouds over the island.

In the wake, the Japanese military force had left behind an inferno of blazing fire, sunken ships and hundreds of casualties.

The easy Sunday had been interrupted as news of the sudden attacks trickled in through radios across Richmond and other cities in the nation. Those who didnt own a radio learned from neighbors who left their homes to relay the news.

War came suddenly. Without warning, and while Japanese diplomats were still conducting negotiations for peace, the Japanese air force struck at Honolulu, Pearl Harbor and Hickam Field, The Times-Dispatch reported in the Dec. 8, 1941, edition of the paper.

Soon afterward, Japanese bombs were raining upon Guam, and later, portions of the Philippines.

A feeling of shock and astonishment trickled out across the city as Richmonders fought to make sense of that day 82 years ago Thursday.

Mrs. H.M. Martin was tending to her husband who had the flu. They sat together in disbelief as the news came through the radio.

Joan Haggard, an 11-year-old girl at the time, was visiting her grandmother in Charlottesville. She watched as convoys of cars passed by the home. In one, a teenage boy sat tuned into the radio. He would probably be in uniform soon, she said.

While the rest of the countrys allies were at war, the United States had managed to hold out. The American public read of the goings-on in Europe and in the Pacific but had opted to send supplies.

A sense of community takes root

Following the attack, the nation was thrust into a two-war front in Europe and Japan  a feat that had never been successfully won.

In Richmond, not unlike the rest of the nation, a sense of community began to form  those who were able to banded together to aid in the war effort. Young men began enlisting in the U.S. Army and Navy.

In an event the Japanese Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto, who led the attack on Pearl Harbor, later described as a sleeping giant began to awaken across the country and in Richmond, it was certainly filled with a terrible resolve.

Two days following the attack, The Times-Dispatch reported in the Tuesday, Dec. 9, 1941, edition that the states naval stations had become crowded as young men and old, married and single  a cross-section of Virginia manhood  marched into the busting recruiting stations as the nation mobilized for war in the Pacific.

The Red Cross reported long lines at pop-up blood drives. In a few weeks, many of the citys factories would be converted into war-time machines churning out the necessities needed to keep the beast well-fed.

Others responded to the attacks by ensuring Richmond had its re-enforcement in case it were to be attacked. Plans to build raid shelters dictated conversations in City Hall and architects were hired to determine where to construct them.

A former 30-feet underground wine cellar buried beneath Chimborazo Park was a high contender as well as the old Byrd Street tunnel which ran for two blocks under the street.

Several housewives began converting their basements into makeshift shelters. With news of the daily Blitzkrieg bombings taking shape in England, no one wanted to chance it.

Likewise, the forced detention of Japanese and German-born residents began. In less than a week following the attack, seven German-born citizens, including a 65-year-old North Adams Street resident, as well as 18 Japanese-born citizens were located in Virginia and taken into custody by the FBI.

Lists of missing people began to pop up in the paper as Richmonders attempted to make contact with their relatives.

In a piece titled Virginians Report Kin in Danger Zone, in the Monday, Dec. 8, 1941, edition, it was reported nobody knows exactly how many Richmond and Virginia people are in the Pacific war zones. Their messages were printed and sent through the wire in hopes of reaching their missing loved ones.

Mr. and Mrs. A.A. Armstrong had just received Christmas cards the previous week from their son Henry Armstrong who was stationed at Hickam Field. He had recently transferred there to attend the Hawaiian Air Force Technical School.

Helen Crawford and her young daughter awaited news of her husband Maj. George Harold Crawfords whereabouts. He was stationed in the Philippines at the time of the attacks.

Both men would later be found alive.

In a Christmas special printed in the Thursday, Dec. 25, 1941, edition of The Times-Dispatch, Henry Armstrong told of his survival that morning. He woke to heavy artillery as shrapnel bombs and strafing barracks and hangars fell nearby.

Sunday was the first day I had been out of bed before breakfast in a long time. But I really rolled out and dressed in a hurry when I heard all the noise, Armstrong said. I had a couple of close calls but didnt get hit.

Maj. Harold Crawford survived the attack and went on to lead a troop on the Pacific front. He died at the age of 36 in the Paracel Islands as a prisoner of war nine months before the wars end.

Now, 82 years later, Richmonders still remember the tragedy. While many of those who survived are no longer living, their legacy lives on through their families.

Each year, the Virginia War Memorial hosts a remembrance ceremony. An eternal flame continues to burn at Hawaiis Pearl Harbor.

The moon rose over the carnage of Pearl Harbor after midnight that Sunday. Those still up saw a lunar rainbow through the smoke of the days battle. By ancient Hawaiian tradition it signaled approaching victory, writer Sid Moody said in a column titled The Day War Began in the Sunday, Dec. 1, 1991, edition of The Times-Dispatch. Pearl Harbor, as perhaps nothing else could have, made Americans fighting mad. All of them.

Photos: The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 1941 The_USS_Arizona Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 USS Arizona Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941
Richmond police detectives are asking for the publics assistance in locating Rico Albert, 42, of Richmond, the suspect in the homicide that took place during the summer.

Albert is 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs about 235 pounds. The public should not approach Albert as he is considered dangerous, police said. Anyone seeing Albert or anyone who knows his whereabouts is asked to call 911.

At about 5:24 p.m. on Aug. 28, while working a collision in the 300 block of Richmond Highway, officers were approached and notified of a shooting that had occurred nearby.

Detectives determined Isaiah Johnson was shot in the 4300 block of Richmond Highway and an attempt was being made to transport him to a local hospital in a personal vehicle.

Officers called for the Richmond Ambulance Authority, which transported him to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries.

Anyone with further information about this homicide is asked to call Detective M. Gouldman at (804) 646-3915 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.
Richmond police have identified the victim in the fatal shooting Tuesday on Floyd Avenue as Michael Jones, 48, of Richmond.

At about 8:20 p.m., officers were called to the 2300 block of Floyd Avenue for the report of trouble unknown.

Officers arrived to a duplex and found Jones down and unresponsive in the residence. He had had an apparent gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives with the Major Crimes Unit are investigating.

Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to call Major Crimes Detective B. Plaskett at (804) 646-3431 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. The P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app for smartphones also may be used. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.
Virginia Commonwealth University has begun reimagining its academic identity in response to the numerous challenges colleges face convincing students to enroll and pay the steep cost of tuition.

On Tuesday, the university announced 100 recommendations that could merge struggling departments and create new ones. Its the most recent step in a multi-year process to determine what kind of degrees the university should offer and what students should learn.

VCU has no plans to cut humanities, said provost Fotis Sotiropoulos, even though some majors such as English have declined in popularity, as students seek degrees that clearly translate into jobs.

The question is, are we positioned to serve the needs of our students, the needs of our faculty and the needs of our community? Sotiropoulos said.

VCU is looking for innovative changes that make programs more attractive to students, more financially efficient and more relevant in preparing graduates for a changing world, Sotiropoulos said.

One suggestion is a collaboration between the departments of accounting and criminal justice to form a degree in forensic accounting  the work of investigating fraud or embezzlement. Its not a common major, but there is a job need. The Internal Revenue Service, Secret Service and FBI all do that work, and VCU already has the resources to educate interested students.

Other suggestions focus on making some departments more business-focused. One idea is to merge the school of media and culture with the school of business or the Brandcenter, VCUs renowned graduate school for advertising, branding and marketing.

In a year in which the university has already reduced its workforce, professors worry a realignment will mean more jobs lost.

In June, VCU formed a task force of about 50 faculty and staff directed to form new ideas. On Tuesday, the universitys administration released those ideas and asked for feedback from the rest of the community.

Once the university settles on changes, theyll need approval from the schools board of visitors and the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. It will likely take until 2025 until new academic plans are in place.

Colleges are being forced to respond to existential challenges, Sotiropoulos said. As the cost of college has increased, students have questioned the value of a degree. Competition among colleges to fill seats is expected to heat up as the number of seniors graduating high school will decline nationwide beginning in 2025.

VCU also wants to adapt to the times. It needs to be prepared for how artificial intelligence will change careers, and the university needs to take advantage of its research prowess, Sotiropoulos said. Last year VCU ranked in the top 50 among public schools nationwide for research.

College students have increasingly chosen fields of study that more directly translate into jobs. In the past year, VCUs school of business has grown 5%, its school of engineering 11% and its school of health professions 19%. But the college of humanities and sciences, which houses a number of liberal arts degrees, decreased about 1%.

Fewer students are majoring in English, while a degree in health and physical education has grown exponentially in the past 15 years.

VCU doesnt plan to cut English, history, or philosophy, but the programs might need to change to better serve students, Sotiropoulos said. The provost cited a comment made by billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban, who said AI will reduce the value of computer science degrees and make creativity more important.

Humanities will play a big role, Sotiropoulos said. Its not about closing programs, and its not about letting people go.

But when a university announces a realignment of its academics, professors worry layoffs will follow. Earlier this year, West Virginia University announced it would cut its foreign language department and fire 7% of its faculty because of budget problems.

Facing a $25 million budget shortfall, VCU has reduced its workforce by at least 76 jobs this year. Kristin Reed, a VCU professor and chair of the United Campus Workers labor union, said its no coincidence that the repositioning comes at the same time as the university reduces its workforce and restructures its faculty contracts to one-year deals.

Frankly, repositioning is scary, said Will Pelfrey, a VCU professor who served on the task force. Professors often ask what will happen to us?

Whats happening at VCU isnt like WVU, Pelfrey said, because the administration is not forcing decisions. The university isnt deciding what programs will be combined or eliminated and telling professors to get in line.

Reed still worries the decisions will be made in a top-down manner, noting her department hasnt played a role yet in discussions.

Other ideas pertain to limiting student fees, such as designating certain majors as having zero textbook costs. Another idea includes creating robust online degree program within the department of interdisciplinary studies. Another involves adding more accelerated programs in the in-demand fields of health sciences and biomedicine.

Sotiropoulos said he likes what hes seen so far.

VCU faculty never stop to pleasantly surprise me with their level of ingenuity and academic creativity, he added.

This morning's headlines: Henry Kissinger; lead pipes; Israel-Hamas truce extended
Every year, the Virginia War Memorial holds a ceremony to honor those who gave their lives at Pearl Harbor, the surprise attack in Honolulu that killed 2,403 Americans 82 years ago Thursday.

For this years anniversary, Director of Education James Triesler created Pathway to Pearl Harbor, a multimedia presentation that digs into the lesser-known parts of that horrific day. Its set to premiere at 7 p.m. Wednesday at vawarmemorial.org.

Triesler, 60, was a history teacher at Clover Hill High School in Chesterfield County before coming to the War Memorial in 2015. Triesler now travels statewide teaching children by telling stories and presenting artifacts.

The presentation takes a look at the nigh before the attacks. That Saturday night, the Bloch Recreation Center at the Pearl Harbor Naval Base was filled for the final round of the first Battle of Music. Bands from various fleets had been competing for months in elimination rounds.

The final round was between three 21-piece-bands from the USS Pennsylvania, Argonne and Tennessee. The band from the USS Arizona entertained the audience between rounds. Bands played swing music and did the jitterbug to a roof-raising rendition of Jingle Bells from the Pennsylvania band, according to Triesler.

Other selections from the night were Hoagy Carmichaels Georgia On My Mind and Therell Be Some Changes Made by W. Benton Overstreet and Billy Higgins.

The USS Pennsylvania band was declared the winner and members were awarded a trophy that night.

The night of celebration became a morning of terror at 8 a.m. that Sunday when Japan launched its surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. Among the victims were 40 Virginians.

You just picture this amazing festive night, Triesler said. Its such a juxtaposition. One night its so much joy and celebration, then 12 hours later, its destruction and World War II.

The entire band of the USS Arizona was killed that morning. Band members of the USS Pennsylvania agreed to award their Battle of Music trophy to their fallen comrades. The trophy was renamed the USS Arizona Band Trophy and now sits in the Arizona Memorial Museum.

Triesler is incorporating music clips from that night into his presentation in an effort to celebrate a little bit on Dec. 6 before mourning Dec. 7, he said.

The livestream will be recorded and available on the Virginia War Memorial website.

The Commonwealths Pearl Harbor Day Remembrance Ceremony is planned at 11 a.m. Thursday at the 621 S. Belvidere St. memorial.

Photos: The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 1941 The_USS_Arizona Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 USS Arizona Attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941
The date that lives in infamy: December 7, 1941. It was the brilliant, surprise attack by naval air forces of the Empire of Japan on the U.S. Navy's Pacific Fleet and military installations at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The tragic event brought the United States into World War II. Ultimately, the attack resulted in spectacular defeat for Japan.

In the attack, 2,403 Americans were killed and 1,178 others were wounded. All eight U.S. Navy battleships were damaged; four sunk. The Japanese sank or damaged three cruisers, three destroyers, an anti-aircraft training ship and one minelayer, as well as destroying 188 aircraft.
Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney traveled to Northern Virginia on Wednesday to collect an endorsement from his biggest political ally, former Gov. Terry McAuliffe, in his bid to become Virginias next governor.

Standing outside a restaurant in Fairfax County, McAuliffe gave a widely expected endorsement to the two-term mayor, who had helped McAuliffe win election as governor in 2013 and then served him as Secretary of the Commonwealth before running for mayor the first time in 2016.

The former governor touted Stoneys executive experience in state and local government, which the mayor will lean on in a political showdown for the Democratic nomination with Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-7th, in 2025.

There is no learning curve with Levar, McAuliffe told news media Wednesday morning. He will hit the job running and ready to go.

The former governor said he does not expect to play a formal role in the campaign, but promised to help Stoney in any way he can.

Hes the one running for governor. They dont want to hear from me, McAuliffe said, prompting a ripple of laughter. I just feel like a side act.

Almost two years before voters choose a new governor, the Democratic primary campaign already features competing endorsements from former governors, with McAuliffe backing Stoney and former Gov. Ralph Northam supporting Spanberger.

Whoever wins the primary will face a Republican opponent that is likely to be either Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears or Attorney General Jason Miyares, both of whom won election in 2021 on a ticket led by Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who defeated McAuliffes attempt to win a second, non-consecutive term.

Stoney called McAuliffe my friend, my mentor, and praised his work as governor to build a new Virginia economy and restore voting and other civil rights to 200,000 Virginians who had been convicted felons and served their time, a historic initiative that the future mayor helped to lead as Cabinet secretary.

While he welcomed the former governors support, Stoney said, Im going to have to earn this.

Stoney is counting on his political experience, which includes serving as executive director of the Democratic Party of Virginia, and his work as mayor over the past seven years.

He is focusing on nuts-and-bolts governance, such as paving roads, building schools and improving the citys finances, rather than high-profile setbacks with the collapse of the proposed Navy Hill redevelopment of downtown during his first term and the two voter rejections of a proposed $550 million casino resort in South Richmond during his second term.

In a statement announcing his endorsement, McAuliffe said, As mayor, he has fixed crumbling infrastructure, made historic investments in public education, and worked tirelessly to make Richmond a welcoming environment for everyone  no matter what they look like or where they come from.

Additionally, Levar has created a thriving economy that has attracted billions of dollars in investment, created thousands of jobs and hes cut red tape to allow consistent growth, he said.

In his appearance on Wednesday, McAuliffe also praised Stoneys political skills.

What I love about Levar is he brings everybody together, he said.

PHOTOS: Youngkin defeats McAuliffe to become Virginia's next governor
Google TV is bringing the Holiday spirit into your homes with its advent calendar of movie suggestions.

Accessing the main Google TV page, the search engine will suggest films perfect for the Holidays in the lead up to Christmas on Dec. 25, Monday.

For extra fun, watchers will have to guess what movie recommendation they will receive.

The device will showcase holiday-themed banner and title cards which the viewers could interact for a "brief clue to help them guess the mystery holiday content for that day."

The movie recommendations only appear one by one each day.

So far, Google recommended Holiday classics like "The Shepherd," "The Nightmare Before Christmas," "Little Women," and "The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special."

The films were recommended from Google TV streaming partners. Google TV owners can watch films and shows from Disney Plus, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and rentals from the device.

Also Read: Google TV Rivals Roku with Over 800 Free Channels

Google TV Best of 2023 Recommendations

If you are not much into the Christmas cheers or generally do not celebrate Christmas, Google TV still have its recently released "Best of 2023" movie and show recommendations.

The recommendations are the recap of the most watched films of the year on the platform.

These include popular titles like "The Super Mario Bros. Movie", "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts", "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse", "Elemental", and "The Little Mermaid (2023)".

For online series, live-adaptation of "The Last of Us" leads the race, of which can also be watched on the device via HBO Max.

All recommendations can be accessed on the "For You" tab on Google TV.

Google TV Features and Services

Google TV is built in with most modern smart and streaming TVs worldwide. It can access the internet and other streaming platforms for an easier access to view all your favorites in one place.

For the best experience, a Google ecosystem will show all of the device's capabilities, including voice remote navigation.

Related Article: 5 Reasons Why You Should Choose an Android TV
Travis Nembhard, a lawyer and administrator for the Washington, D.C. government who recently lost a Prince William County contest for the House of Delegates, is now seeking the congressional seat of retiring Rep. Jennifer Wexton, D-10th.

At least 10 other Democrats already are seeking the Democratic nomination next summer, including state Sen. Jennifer Boysko, D-Fairfax; former Speaker of the House Eileen Filler-Corn, D-Fairfax; Del. Dan Helmer, D-Fairfax; Del. Michelle Maldonado, D-Prince William; former Virginia Secretary of Education Atif Qarni; Del. David Reid, D-Loudoun and Sen.-elect Suhas Subramanyam, D-Loudoun.

Nembhard lost Nov. 7 to Republican Ian Lovejoy, the founder of a national recruitment firm and a former member of the Manassas City Council. Lovejoy received about 52% of the vote to about 48% for Nembhard.

He said in a brief phone interview that he jumped into the House contest late when no other Democrats were seeking the seat. He noted that he raised $2 million and forced Republicans to campaign vigorously for the seat.

I didnt win the race but I like to think that I helped us gain control of the House of Delegates, he said.

Nembhard is head of the compliance and enforcement division at the city of Washingtons Department of For Hire Vehicles, which regulates businesses that involve drivers and taxi and limousine operations. He has served as an administrative law judge, a regulatory analyst, and as an adjunct professor at American Universitys Washington College of Law. He also has been a legislative counsel for the D.C. City Council and an assistant attorney general in New York.

He said in a prepared statement: I have spent my career standing up for people who are too often forgotten. My lifetime of public service is focused on combating injustices and fighting for those who need someone to fight for them the most.

Nembhard, 35, said in the phone interview that it is time for a new generation of leaders to help confront extremism and polarization.

He said his work experience, which has touched on the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government, gives him the insight and the ability to provide thoughtful solutions to complex problems.

Nembhard, an African American, also said he hopes to be a beacon of hope for young people. He would be Virginias first Black member of Congress to represent Northern Virginia.

Wexton is not seeking a fourth term in Congress due to health reasons. The competitive district is based in Loudoun and Prince William counties.

As for the large field running for the seat, Nembhard said, I think its democracy at work.

Today in history: Dec. 6 1865: The 13th Amendment 1907: Monongah, West Virginia 1957: Vanguard TV3 1969: Altamont Speedway 1973: Gerald R. Ford 1998: Hugo Chavez 2011: Afghanistan 2017: Trump Jerusalem 2018: Kevin Hart 2021: Emmett Till 2022: Sen. Raphael Warnock
New lanes at two Richmond-area traffic chokepoints are in the works in the coming years to handle current heavy flows of cars, the Central Virginia Transportation Authoritys latest plans show.

One, on Route 288, would be the Richmond metro areas first use of highway shoulders for through traffic at rush hour  an approach now used on the Virginia Beach Expressway, Interstate 264, between I-64 and the Oceanfront.

The other is at the Staples Mill Road intersection with I-64 in Henrico County.

On Route 288, the plan  to be carried out in fiscal 2028  is to reconstruct the side of the northbound lanes between Route 711, Huguenot Trail, in Powhatan and Route 6 in Goochland County, to make it an 11-foot-wide shoulder. Motorists could be using the shoulder for through traffic during the morning rush hour, as Chesterfield residents head to work in western Henrico and Goochland counties or to swing east for a connection to I-295 and points farther north.

This project would create an additional safety improvement to provide more capacity in the northbound direction that could be utilized as demand required, said Chet Parsons, executive director of the Central Virginia Transportation Authority.

The work includes new gantries and signs over the roadway to let drivers know when they can and cannot use the lane, as well as emergency pull-off areas for disabled vehicles.

The work will cost $23.5 million, with $8 million from the authority and the rest from the Virginia Department of Transportations specialized funding for technology-related projects.

The aim is to do the work in fiscal year 2028.

On Staples Mill, work includes an additional southbound through lane between the on-ramp for I-64s westbound lanes and the on-ramp for I-64 heading east toward downtown Richmond.

The mixing of traffic exiting westbound I-64, traffic trying to get onto I-64 east and vehicles driving to drive straight though in a short space routinely causes congestion and accidents on that stretch of road.

In addition, improvements on the I-64 exit ramp onto southbound Staples Mill would eliminate the current rolling merge with traffic-signal controlled triple right turn lanes from the ramp onto the street.

Related work in the area will include adding a left-turn lane on Staples Mill southbound to create dual left turns onto Bethlehem Road eastbound.

With that, contractors will widen the south side of Bethlehem Road to handle that dual left turn movement.

Theyll also widen westbound Bethlehem Road to include a left-turn lane, a shared through-and-right turn lane and an additional right turn lane.

Crosswalks, Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant ramps and crossing signals are coming at Staples Mills intersections with Townhouse Road, Wharfide Road/Dumbarton Road, Dickens Road, the I-64 off-ramp, Bethlehem Road, Libbie Mill East Boulevard and Libbie Lake South Street/Waller Road.

The plan also calls for traffic lights at the Millstone Road/Northside Avenue crossing.

This work will cost nearly $22 million and should be underway in fiscal year 2031.

The Central Virginia Transportation Authority is a regional body set up to speed up work on critical projects by contributing local funds to the states pool of money for projects everywhere in Virginia.

The money comes from a 0.7 percentage point surcharge on sales tax across nine localities, as well as a 7.6-cents-per-gallon add-on to the states wholesale gasoline tax and a 7.7-cents-a-gallon surcharge on the diesel tax.

Other projects it is funding include widening I-64 through New Kent County, for which the authority is contributing $100 million, as well as the Ashland Road Interchange on I-64 in Goochland County, where the authoritys share is $33.7 million. It is contributing $5 million for the replacement of Mayos Bridge in Richmond.

Close Rocco, a pug/beagle mix a motors along Monument Avenue Monday, July 18, 2016, with owner Ian Jannett who recently moved to Richmond from New Jersey. Jannett is a motorcycle specialist who works on classic motorcycles. Caylin Minns, 18 months old, manages to hold an American flag and her mother's hand during the Commonwealth's Memorial Day Ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond VA Mon. May 30, 2016. 6/30/2016: Caylin Minns, 18 months, gripped an American flag and her mother's hand during the Memorial Day ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial in May. Mark Gormus/Times-Dispatch Caylin Minns, 18 months, gripped an American flag and her mother's hand during the Memorial Day ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial in May. Mark Gormus/Times-Dispatch Ryland Bailey waits to present a wreath during the Commonwealth's Memorial Day Ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond VA Mon. May 30, 2016. Buckets of strawberries await their fate during the Ashland Strawberry Faire on the campus of Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Saturday, June 4, 2016. Curbside Creations' Billy Metzger was selling gator meat during the Broad Appetit, Sunday, June 5, 2016. Tim Marino takes a running start at the top of Slide the City's 1,000-foot water slide that took up three blocks of downtown on Saturday June 18, 2016. Riders walk off at the bottom of Slide the City's 1,000-foot water slide that took up three blocks of downtown on Saturday June 18, 2016. Shaniya Vance, age 4, tries to make a pinwheel turn as she celebrated Independence Day at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden Monday, July 4, 2016. Lewis Ginter and CarMax sponsored free admission to the garden today. Bella Reilly (left) and Cordelia Hogan dance with water pistols as they and about 30 other dancers in the Richmond Ballet Summer Intensive Program take part in a water battle in the parking lot of the Richmond Ballet at 4th and Canal streets. The students just completed the first week of the five-week program and were having some fun. July 4, 2016. Temperatures soared into the 90s on Saturday July 9, 2016. Pam Leber donned a bathing suit while mowing her lawn in an attempt to battle the heat. Andrew McInturff of Powhatan stands before the names of the 58,307 US military personnell who gave their lives in the Vietnam War. Caffery and others braved the heat to visit the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall at Blessed Sacrament Huguenot Catholic School in Powhatan. McInturff served two tours of Iraq from 2006-20010 as a US Marine. He said, "It's humbling. Not many people --especially in this day and time--are willing to pay the ultimate price for freedom. It's an honor ro see these names." The 228-ft structure is set up on the school's football field. It will be there (its 152nd stop) until Sunday, July 17, then will move to Crawfordville, Indiana. July 15, 2016 Steve Ruckman, Director of Field Operations pushes water from the tarp prior to the expected start of the game between Akron RubberDucks and the Richmond Flying Squirrels at The Diamond in Richmond VA Tues. July19, 2016. Taylor White paints a mural at 2614 W. Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. 7/23/2016: Taylor White, a Raleigh, N.C.-based artist, painted a mural that extends across three walls at 2614 W. Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Taylor White, a Raleigh, N.C.-based artist, painted a mural that extends across three walls at 2614 W. Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Victor "Marka27" Qui n onez paints in a way that combines indigenous styles with modern pop culture. One of his murals, called "Givers of Divine Sound," is located at 6. W. Cary St. in Richmond. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Victor "Marka27" Qui n onez paints in a way that combines indigenous styles with modern pop culture. One of his murals, called "Givers of Divine Sound," is located at 6. W. Cary St. in Richmond. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Taylor White gathers supplies as she paints a mural at 2614 W. Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Taylor White gathers supplies as she paints a mural at 2614 W. Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Victor "Marka27" Quinonez paints a mural at 6. W Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Victor "Marka27" Quinonez paints a mural at 6. W Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Victor "Marka27" Quinonez paints a mural at 6. W Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Victor "Marka27" Quinonez paints a mural at 6. W Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Taylor White's mural uses the human form to convey emotion and expression. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Taylor White's mural uses the human form to con Kinsley Atristain, age 5, and Nathan Elder, her mother's fiance, splash water at her uncle Justin Wells in the Jordan Point Yacht Haven pool Sunday, July 24, 2016. Lisa Perkinson and her boyfriend Mike Coker stay cool in the Jordan Point Yacht Haven pool Sunday, July 24, 2016, as temperatures neared 100 degrees. Two kayakers float in the James River near the Lee Bridge in Richmond, VA Tuesday, July 26, 2016 as the temperature hovered near 100 degrees. A large number of sunbathers and swimmers were on Belle Isle beside the James River in Richmond, VA Tuesday, July 26, 2016 as the temperature hovered near 100 degrees. A paddleboarder in the James River near the Lee Bridge in Richmond, VA Tuesday, July 26, 2016 as the temperature hovered near 100 degrees. Lindsey Lewis, left, and Jamie Leisure, all of Virginia Beach, play beach volleyball in Virginia Beach on Tuesday, July 20, 2016. 8/4/2016: A large cast bronze statue of Neptune is one of the most popular spots for photos in Virginia Beach. The 34-foot statue by Paul DiPasquale is at Neptune Park. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/TIMES-DISPATCH A large cast bronze statue of Neptune is one of the most popular spots for photos in Virginia Beach. The 34-foot statue by Paul DiPasquale is at Neptune Park. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/TIMES-DISPATCH Beachgoers visit Virginia Beach on Tuesday, July 19, 2016. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Beachgoers visit Virginia Beach on Tuesday, July 19, 2016. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD The crabcake sandwich comes with a side of french fries at the Nautilus Restaurant . DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD The crabcake sandwich comes with a side of french fries at the Nautilus Restaurant . DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Buckets filled with saltwater taffy entice visitors to Forbes Candies. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Buckets filled with saltwater taffy entice visitors to Forbes Candies. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Lindsey Lewis (left) and Jamie Leisure, both of Virginia Beach, play beach volleyball. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Lindsey Lewis (left) and Jamie Leisure, both of Virginia Beach, play beach volleyball. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Sammy, 7, and his sister Hannah Nazir, 5, of Clifford, Pa., play with sand in Virginia Beach on Tuesday, July 20, 2016. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Sammy, 7, and his sister Hannah Nazir, 5, of Clifford, Pa., play with sand in Virginia Beach on Tuesday, July 20, 2016. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Robert Mitchell of Chesterfield County releases a small fish he caught at a fishing pier in Virginia Beach. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Robert Mitchell of Chesterfield County releases a small fish he caught at a fishing pier in Virginia Beach. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Armed with metal detectors, treasure hunters Virginia Beach Max - also known as Gravedigger A goldfinch blends in with sunflower blooms as it looks for sunflower seeds in the Varina district of eastern Henrico County, VA Sunday, July 31, 2016. Teams Anton Paar, back, and NBC12 Peacocks, foreground, compete in the James River during Walgreens Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival at Rocketts Landing in Richmond on Saturday, August 6, 2016. 8/7/2016: Hot Mess team members race up the James River. Some participants said the hardest part of Saturday's competition - the area's seventh - was keeping their rowing in sync. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/TIMES-DISPATCH Hot Mess team members race up the James River. Some participants said the hardest part of Saturday's competition - the area's seventh - was keeping their rowing in sync. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/TIMES-DISPATCH Among the nearly four dozen 20-member teams from all over the East Coast were Hot Mess (left) and Glory of the Hop. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/TIMES-DISPATCH Among the nearly four dozen 20-member teams from all over the East Coast were Hot Mess (left) and Glory of the Hop. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/TIMES-DISPATCH Six-year-old Hailey Ouellette and other members of Pacific Arts Troupe perform during the Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival at Rocketts Landing. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Six-year-old Hailey Ouellette and other members of Pacific Arts Troupe perform during the Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival at Rocketts Landing. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Each boat was decorated similar in style to traditional Chinese dragon boats. Each boat was decorated similar in style to traditional Chinese dragon boats. Teams Anton Paar, back, and NBC12 Peacocks, foreground, compete in the James River during Walgreens Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival at Rocketts Landing in Richmond on Saturday, August 6, 2016. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Teams Anton Paar, back, and NBC12 Peacocks, foreground, compete in the James River during Walgreens Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival at Rocketts Landing in Richmond on Saturday, August 6, 2016. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Oeuyown Kim (left) and friend Morgan Moore relax with drinks in the James River at the Pony Pasture early Saturday evening before a thunderstorm rolled through. Aug. 6, 2016 Poppy, 3,and her brother, Vaughan Yancey, 4, from Nashville, TN, run around and chase geese for fun at Byrd Park as they visit their family in Richmond on Friday, August 12, 2016. Christy Littaua and the Sayaw! Diversity Group performs the Pinoy Summer Extravaganza dance during the Filipino Festival at Our Lady of Lourdes Church Saturday, August 13, 2016. Rudy took her first plunge into the James River at Pony Pasture on Sunday May 29, 2016 and jumped right back onto the dry rock after her owner Ryan McKinnon pulled her into the water with him. Kennedi Hertsch, 4 (left) and her sister, Kara Hertsch, 3, ride the Kiddie Corral at the Chesterfield County Fair, Friday afternoon, shortly after the fair opened. The girls were first in line at the fair gates with their grandmother, Deborah Hertsch. When the gates opened at 4pm, they headed straight for the rides. They live in Richmond. August 26, 2016. Brooke Atkinson, left, peddles a paddle boat with her brother Zach Kirby and his six-year-old step-son Collin Jones, right, and his six-year-old daughter Brooklyn on Fountain Lake in Byrd Park Wednesday, August 17, 2016. 8/18/2016: Brooke Atkinson (left) pedaled a paddle boat with her brother Zach Kirby and his stepson Collin, 6, and his daughter Brooklyn, 6, at Fountain Lake in Byrd Park on Wednesday. The National Weather Service in Wakefield said this summer's average temperature has been 78.3 degrees. Last summer, it was 78.2. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/times-dispatch Brooke Atkinson (left) pedaled a paddle boat with her brother Zach Kirby and his stepson Collin, 6, and his daughter Brooklyn, 6, at Fountain Lake in Byrd Park on Wednesday. The National Weather Service in Wakefield said this summer's average temperature has been 78.3 degrees. Last summer, it was 78.2. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/times-dispatch Mark Browning took a break from working on a house off East Marshall Street in Church Hill last month. A report by the nonprofit Climate Central predicts more muggy and hot weather in coming years. Daytona Niles/Times-Dispatch Mark Browning took a break from working on a house off East Marshall Street in Church Hill last month. A report by the nonprofit Climate Central predicts more muggy and hot weather in coming years. Daytona Niles/Times-Dispatch Two-year-old Jakobe Long, of Midlothian, eats watermelon during the Carytown Watermelon Festival Sunday, August 14, 2016. 8/15/2016: Jakobe Long, 2, of Midlothian ate watermelon during the festival in Carytown on Sunday. There was no indication that attendance had dropped because of the heat, said Larry Koon, past potentate of the Acca Shriners. "It's hard to keep up," he said. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/times-dispatch Jakobe Long, 2, of Midlothian ate watermelon during the festival in Carytown on Sunday. There was no indication that attendance had dropped because of the heat, said Larry Koon, past potentate of the Acca Shriners. "It's hard to keep up," he said. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/times-dispatch Jaslynn Hunt, 11, of Fayetteville, N.C., took a nap in the heat as her family sold food and drinks at their Jason's Mini Donut stand during the 33rd annual Carytown Watermelon Festival on Sunday. Sixteen-year-old Christopher Lewis (below), with Uncle Dave's Kettle Korn of Leesburg, bagged popcorn during the festival. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/times-dispatch Jaslynn Hunt, 11, of Fayetteville, N.C., took a nap in the heat as her family sold food and drinks at their Jason's Mini Donut stand during the 33rd annual Carytown Watermelon Festival on Sunday. Sixteen-year-old Christopher Lewis (below), with Uncle Dave's Kettle Korn of Leesburg, bagged popcorn during the festival. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/times-dispatch Sixteen-year-old Christopher Lewis, with Uncle Dave's Kettle Korn of Leesburg, bags popcorn during the Carytown Watermelon Festival Sunday, August 14, 2016. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND Sixteen-year-old Christopher Lewis, with Uncle Dave's Kettle Korn of Leesburg, bags popcorn during the Carytown Watermelon Festival Sunday, August 14, 2016. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND Michele Jaundoo tries to stay cool while waiting for the Ramsey Lewis Quartet to play during the Richmond Jazz Festival at Maymont Sunday, August 14, 2016. Arrested Development performs at the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016. 8/14/2016: The sun begins to set over the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016. SHELBY LUM / TIMES-DISPATCH The sun begins to set over the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016. SHELBY LUM / TIMES-DISPATCH Esperanza Spalding performs at the festival, which has fanned out to include artists from genres other than jazz. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH Esperanza Spalding performs at the festival, which has fanned out to include artists from genres other than jazz. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH John Primus and his wife, Doza, pose with the "Love" sign. The couple came from Raleigh, N.C., for the festival. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH John Primus and his wife, Doza, pose with the "Love" sign. The couple came from Raleigh, N.C., for the festival. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH James Genus, a bassist, performed Saturday night with Herbie Hancock, a 14-time Grammy Award winner and one of the last of the great progenitors of modern jazz. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH James Genus, a bassist, performed Saturday night with Herbie Hancock, a 14-time Grammy Award winner and one of the last of the great progenitors of modern jazz. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH Jazz giant Herbie Hancock - a pianist, keyboardist, bandleader and composer - introduces his bandmates. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH Jazz giant Herbie Hancock - a pianist, keyboardist, bandleader and composer - introduces his bandmates. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH Esperanza Spalding performed Saturday at the Richmond Jazz Festival, held on the grounds of Maymont. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH Esperanza Spalding performed Saturday at the Richmond Jazz Festival, held on the grounds of Maymont. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH Herbie Hancock performs at the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016. SHELBY LUM / TIMES-DISPATCH Herbie Hancock performs at the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016. SHELBY LUM / TIMES-DISPATCH 8/15/2016: The sun begi Arrested Development performs at the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016. Sherri Thomas blows bubbles during Vanessa Williams's set at the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016. Photo essay: Our best shots from the summer of '16 The lasting memories of this summer will vary across the Richmond region. For some residents  after multiple destructive thunderstorms  downed trees, damaged homes and sweltering nights without power will stand out. Others may most remember the cool waters of the James, the colorful scenes from various festivals, the chase of a Flying Squirrels victory (and foul balls) at The Diamond. There were unbearable waits in beachbound traffic, sweltering waits in line for craft beer  and for some parents, endless waiting for school to resume. That wish will soon be granted. Rocco, a pug/beagle mix a motors along Monument Avenue Monday, July 18, 2016, with owner Ian Jannett who recently moved to Richmond from New Jersey. Jannett is a motorcycle specialist who works on classic motorcycles. Caylin Minns, 18 months old, manages to hold an American flag and her mother's hand during the Commonwealth's Memorial Day Ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond VA Mon. May 30, 2016. 6/30/2016: Caylin Minns, 18 months, gripped an American flag and her mother's hand during the Memorial Day ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial in May. Mark Gormus/Times-Dispatch Caylin Minns, 18 months, gripped an American flag and her mother's hand during the Memorial Day ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial in May. Mark Gormus/Times-Dispatch Ryland Bailey waits to present a wreath during the Commonwealth's Memorial Day Ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond VA Mon. May 30, 2016. Buckets of strawberries await their fate during the Ashland Strawberry Faire on the campus of Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Saturday, June 4, 2016. Curbside Creations' Billy Metzger was selling gator meat during the Broad Appetit, Sunday, June 5, 2016. Tim Marino takes a running start at the top of Slide the City's 1,000-foot water slide that took up three blocks of downtown on Saturday June 18, 2016. Riders walk off at the bottom of Slide the City's 1,000-foot water slide that took up three blocks of downtown on Saturday June 18, 2016. Shaniya Vance, age 4, tries to make a pinwheel turn as she celebrated Independence Day at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden Monday, July 4, 2016. Lewis Ginter and CarMax sponsored free admission to the garden today. Bella Reilly (left) and Cordelia Hogan dance with water pistols as they and about 30 other dancers in the Richmond Ballet Summer Intensive Program take part in a water battle in the parking lot of the Richmond Ballet at 4th and Canal streets. The students just completed the first week of the five-week program and were having some fun. July 4, 2016. Temperatures soared into the 90s on Saturday July 9, 2016. Pam Leber donned a bathing suit while mowing her lawn in an attempt to battle the heat. Andrew McInturff of Powhatan stands before the names of the 58,307 US military personnell who gave their lives in the Vietnam War. Caffery and others braved the heat to visit the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall at Blessed Sacrament Huguenot Catholic School in Powhatan. McInturff served two tours of Iraq from 2006-20010 as a US Marine. He said, "It's humbling. Not many people --especially in this day and time--are willing to pay the ultimate price for freedom. It's an honor ro see these names." The 228-ft structure is set up on the school's football field. It will be there (its 152nd stop) until Sunday, July 17, then will move to Crawfordville, Indiana. July 15, 2016 Steve Ruckman, Director of Field Operations pushes water from the tarp prior to the expected start of the game between Akron RubberDucks and the Richmond Flying Squirrels at The Diamond in Richmond VA Tues. July19, 2016. Taylor White paints a mural at 2614 W. Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. 7/23/2016: Taylor White, a Raleigh, N.C.-based artist, painted a mural that extends across three walls at 2614 W. Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Taylor White, a Raleigh, N.C.-based artist, painted a mural that extends across three walls at 2614 W. Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Victor "Marka27" Qui n onez paints in a way that combines indigenous styles with modern pop culture. One of his murals, called "Givers of Divine Sound," is located at 6. W. Cary St. in Richmond. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Victor "Marka27" Qui n onez paints in a way that combines indigenous styles with modern pop culture. One of his murals, called "Givers of Divine Sound," is located at 6. W. Cary St. in Richmond. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Taylor White gathers supplies as she paints a mural at 2614 W. Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Taylor White gathers supplies as she paints a mural at 2614 W. Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Victor "Marka27" Quinonez paints a mural at 6. W Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Victor "Marka27" Quinonez paints a mural at 6. W Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Victor "Marka27" Quinonez paints a mural at 6. W Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Victor "Marka27" Quinonez paints a mural at 6. W Cary St. as part of The Richmond Mural Project Thurs. July 21, 2016. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Taylor White's mural uses the human form to convey emotion and expression. MARK GORMUS/TIMES-DISPATCH Taylor White's mural uses the human form to con Kinsley Atristain, age 5, and Nathan Elder, her mother's fiance, splash water at her uncle Justin Wells in the Jordan Point Yacht Haven pool Sunday, July 24, 2016. Lisa Perkinson and her boyfriend Mike Coker stay cool in the Jordan Point Yacht Haven pool Sunday, July 24, 2016, as temperatures neared 100 degrees. Two kayakers float in the James River near the Lee Bridge in Richmond, VA Tuesday, July 26, 2016 as the temperature hovered near 100 degrees. A large number of sunbathers and swimmers were on Belle Isle beside the James River in Richmond, VA Tuesday, July 26, 2016 as the temperature hovered near 100 degrees. A paddleboarder in the James River near the Lee Bridge in Richmond, VA Tuesday, July 26, 2016 as the temperature hovered near 100 degrees. Lindsey Lewis, left, and Jamie Leisure, all of Virginia Beach, play beach volleyball in Virginia Beach on Tuesday, July 20, 2016. 8/4/2016: A large cast bronze statue of Neptune is one of the most popular spots for photos in Virginia Beach. The 34-foot statue by Paul DiPasquale is at Neptune Park. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/TIMES-DISPATCH A large cast bronze statue of Neptune is one of the most popular spots for photos in Virginia Beach. The 34-foot statue by Paul DiPasquale is at Neptune Park. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/TIMES-DISPATCH Beachgoers visit Virginia Beach on Tuesday, July 19, 2016. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Beachgoers visit Virginia Beach on Tuesday, July 19, 2016. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD The crabcake sandwich comes with a side of french fries at the Nautilus Restaurant . DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD The crabcake sandwich comes with a side of french fries at the Nautilus Restaurant . DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Buckets filled with saltwater taffy entice visitors to Forbes Candies. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Buckets filled with saltwater taffy entice visitors to Forbes Candies. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Lindsey Lewis (left) and Jamie Leisure, both of Virginia Beach, play beach volleyball. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Lindsey Lewis (left) and Jamie Leisure, both of Virginia Beach, play beach volleyball. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Sammy, 7, and his sister Hannah Nazir, 5, of Clifford, Pa., play with sand in Virginia Beach on Tuesday, July 20, 2016. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Sammy, 7, and his sister Hannah Nazir, 5, of Clifford, Pa., play with sand in Virginia Beach on Tuesday, July 20, 2016. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Robert Mitchell of Chesterfield County releases a small fish he caught at a fishing pier in Virginia Beach. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Robert Mitchell of Chesterfield County releases a small fish he caught at a fishing pier in Virginia Beach. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Armed with metal detectors, treasure hunters Virginia Beach Max - also known as Gravedigger A goldfinch blends in with sunflower blooms as it looks for sunflower seeds in the Varina district of eastern Henrico County, VA Sunday, July 31, 2016. Teams Anton Paar, back, and NBC12 Peacocks, foreground, compete in the James River during Walgreens Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival at Rocketts Landing in Richmond on Saturday, August 6, 2016. 8/7/2016: Hot Mess team members race up the James River. Some participants said the hardest part of Saturday's competition - the area's seventh - was keeping their rowing in sync. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/TIMES-DISPATCH Hot Mess team members race up the James River. Some participants said the hardest part of Saturday's competition - the area's seventh - was keeping their rowing in sync. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/TIMES-DISPATCH Among the nearly four dozen 20-member teams from all over the East Coast were Hot Mess (left) and Glory of the Hop. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/TIMES-DISPATCH Among the nearly four dozen 20-member teams from all over the East Coast were Hot Mess (left) and Glory of the Hop. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/TIMES-DISPATCH Six-year-old Hailey Ouellette and other members of Pacific Arts Troupe perform during the Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival at Rocketts Landing. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Six-year-old Hailey Ouellette and other members of Pacific Arts Troupe perform during the Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival at Rocketts Landing. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Each boat was decorated similar in style to traditional Chinese dragon boats. Each boat was decorated similar in style to traditional Chinese dragon boats. Teams Anton Paar, back, and NBC12 Peacocks, foreground, compete in the James River during Walgreens Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival at Rocketts Landing in Richmond on Saturday, August 6, 2016. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Teams Anton Paar, back, and NBC12 Peacocks, foreground, compete in the James River during Walgreens Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival at Rocketts Landing in Richmond on Saturday, August 6, 2016. DANIEL SANGJIB MIN/RTD Oeuyown Kim (left) and friend Morgan Moore relax with drinks in the James River at the Pony Pasture early Saturday evening before a thunderstorm rolled through. Aug. 6, 2016 Poppy, 3,and her brother, Vaughan Yancey, 4, from Nashville, TN, run around and chase geese for fun at Byrd Park as they visit their family in Richmond on Friday, August 12, 2016. Christy Littaua and the Sayaw! Diversity Group performs the Pinoy Summer Extravaganza dance during the Filipino Festival at Our Lady of Lourdes Church Saturday, August 13, 2016. Rudy took her first plunge into the James River at Pony Pasture on Sunday May 29, 2016 and jumped right back onto the dry rock after her owner Ryan McKinnon pulled her into the water with him. Kennedi Hertsch, 4 (left) and her sister, Kara Hertsch, 3, ride the Kiddie Corral at the Chesterfield County Fair, Friday afternoon, shortly after the fair opened. The girls were first in line at the fair gates with their grandmother, Deborah Hertsch. When the gates opened at 4pm, they headed straight for the rides. They live in Richmond. August 26, 2016. Brooke Atkinson, left, peddles a paddle boat with her brother Zach Kirby and his six-year-old step-son Collin Jones, right, and his six-year-old daughter Brooklyn on Fountain Lake in Byrd Park Wednesday, August 17, 2016. 8/18/2016: Brooke Atkinson (left) pedaled a paddle boat with her brother Zach Kirby and his stepson Collin, 6, and his daughter Brooklyn, 6, at Fountain Lake in Byrd Park on Wednesday. The National Weather Service in Wakefield said this summer's average temperature has been 78.3 degrees. Last summer, it was 78.2. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/times-dispatch Brooke Atkinson (left) pedaled a paddle boat with her brother Zach Kirby and his stepson Collin, 6, and his daughter Brooklyn, 6, at Fountain Lake in Byrd Park on Wednesday. The National Weather Service in Wakefield said this summer's average temperature has been 78.3 degrees. Last summer, it was 78.2. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/times-dispatch Mark Browning took a break from working on a house off East Marshall Street in Church Hill last month. A report by the nonprofit Climate Central predicts more muggy and hot weather in coming years. Daytona Niles/Times-Dispatch Mark Browning took a break from working on a house off East Marshall Street in Church Hill last month. A report by the nonprofit Climate Central predicts more muggy and hot weather in coming years. Daytona Niles/Times-Dispatch Two-year-old Jakobe Long, of Midlothian, eats watermelon during the Carytown Watermelon Festival Sunday, August 14, 2016. 8/15/2016: Jakobe Long, 2, of Midlothian ate watermelon during the festival in Carytown on Sunday. There was no indication that attendance had dropped because of the heat, said Larry Koon, past potentate of the Acca Shriners. "It's hard to keep up," he said. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/times-dispatch Jakobe Long, 2, of Midlothian ate watermelon during the festival in Carytown on Sunday. There was no indication that attendance had dropped because of the heat, said Larry Koon, past potentate of the Acca Shriners. "It's hard to keep up," he said. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/times-dispatch Jaslynn Hunt, 11, of Fayetteville, N.C., took a nap in the heat as her family sold food and drinks at their Jason's Mini Donut stand during the 33rd annual Carytown Watermelon Festival on Sunday. Sixteen-year-old Christopher Lewis (below), with Uncle Dave's Kettle Korn of Leesburg, bagged popcorn during the festival. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/times-dispatch Jaslynn Hunt, 11, of Fayetteville, N.C., took a nap in the heat as her family sold food and drinks at their Jason's Mini Donut stand during the 33rd annual Carytown Watermelon Festival on Sunday. Sixteen-year-old Christopher Lewis (below), with Uncle Dave's Kettle Korn of Leesburg, bagged popcorn during the festival. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND/times-dispatch Sixteen-year-old Christopher Lewis, with Uncle Dave's Kettle Korn of Leesburg, bags popcorn during the Carytown Watermelon Festival Sunday, August 14, 2016. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND Sixteen-year-old Christopher Lewis, with Uncle Dave's Kettle Korn of Leesburg, bags popcorn during the Carytown Watermelon Festival Sunday, August 14, 2016. ALEXA WELCH EDLUND Michele Jaundoo tries to stay cool while waiting for the Ramsey Lewis Quartet to play during the Richmond Jazz Festival at Maymont Sunday, August 14, 2016. Arrested Development performs at the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016. 8/14/2016: The sun begins to set over the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016. SHELBY LUM / TIMES-DISPATCH The sun begins to set over the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016. SHELBY LUM / TIMES-DISPATCH Esperanza Spalding performs at the festival, which has fanned out to include artists from genres other than jazz. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH Esperanza Spalding performs at the festival, which has fanned out to include artists from genres other than jazz. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH John Primus and his wife, Doza, pose with the "Love" sign. The couple came from Raleigh, N.C., for the festival. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH John Primus and his wife, Doza, pose with the "Love" sign. The couple came from Raleigh, N.C., for the festival. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH James Genus, a bassist, performed Saturday night with Herbie Hancock, a 14-time Grammy Award winner and one of the last of the great progenitors of modern jazz. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH James Genus, a bassist, performed Saturday night with Herbie Hancock, a 14-time Grammy Award winner and one of the last of the great progenitors of modern jazz. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH Jazz giant Herbie Hancock - a pianist, keyboardist, bandleader and composer - introduces his bandmates. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH Jazz giant Herbie Hancock - a pianist, keyboardist, bandleader and composer - introduces his bandmates. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH Esperanza Spalding performed Saturday at the Richmond Jazz Festival, held on the grounds of Maymont. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH Esperanza Spalding performed Saturday at the Richmond Jazz Festival, held on the grounds of Maymont. SHELBY LUM/TIMES-DISPATCH Herbie Hancock performs at the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016. SHELBY LUM / TIMES-DISPATCH Herbie Hancock performs at the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016. SHELBY LUM / TIMES-DISPATCH 8/15/2016: The sun begi Arrested Development performs at the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016. Sherri Thomas blows bubbles during Vanessa Williams's set at the Jazz Festival on Saturday Aug. 13, 2016.
Grab Malaysia is once again partnering with Mercy Malaysia to bring back its #BantuanBanjir initiative for the third time. As was the case before, it seeks to raise funds to aid in flood relief efforts, helping individuals who were impacted by the recent floods that had hit various parts of Malaysia.

In a statement, Grab said that its #BantuanBanjir initiative will encompass a number of efforts, starting with Grabs own RM200,000 pledge through its GrabForGood Fund to support affected individuals and households.

Additionally, Grab is enabling users to contribute by converting their GrabRewards Points into donations directly to Mercy Malaysia. Not only that, Grab will then match their donation amount, on top of the RM200,000 that it has pledged.

There is also a partnership between GrabFood and Mastercard under the #BantuanBanjir initiative, where Mastercard will contribute 1% of users GrabFood order value to Mercy Malaysias flood relief fund. This is, however, applicable only to orders that come up to a minimum of RM30.

We are deeply saddened by the impact of the floods on the communities of Malaysia. Through our #BantuanBanjir initiative, we are committed to working with Mercy Malaysia to provide support and assistance to help address the immediate dire needs of the affected communities, especially in the East Coast. We also encourage our employees and fellow Malaysians to join us in making a difference, said the managing director of Grab Malaysia, Adelene Foo.

For context, several states in Malaysia have been hit by heavy rainfall throughout the past month due to the onset of the northeast monsoon, with Terengganu, Kelantan, and some parts of Selangor being the worst affected regions. Ongoing floods continue to displace families even today; in early November 2023, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) had said that Malaysians can expect four to six episodes of heavy rain between November 2023 until March 2024 due to the monsoon.

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(Image: The Star/Faihan Ghani)

The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) has said that members retirement savings may potentially increase by as much as 54% with the implementation of the progressive wage policy. This comes following recent announcements that the new wage model is expected to be piloted in June 2024, with the participation of 1,000 organisations.

According to the head of the strategic management department for EPF, Balqais Yusoff, employed members with a projected annual salary increment of 3% will likely see their retirement savings grow to RM64,500 by the age of 30, and RM512,500 by the age of 55. This is equivalent to a retirement income of RM2,100 per month.

Meanwhile, if employers use the progressive wage policy incentive of RM200 per month to increase basic wages, the members savings will increase to RM73,100 at the age of 30 and RM580,500 at the age of 55. This is equivalent to a retirement income of RM2,400 per month, nearly reaching the estimated minimum expenditure for an elderly person in the Klang Valley of RM2,500 per month, according to the MyBudget study by the Social Welfare Research Centre at UM, Balqais further said, referring to the fixed monthly incentives that will be provided for employers who agree to volunteer in the pilot run of the progressive wage model next year.

(Image: Malay Mail/Choo Choy May)

In comparison, Balqais said that if an 18-year-old individual were to currently earn a minimum salary of RM1,500 per month, without any annual salary increment, he will eventually gain a savings of RM54,800 at the age of 30, and RM333,300 at the age of 55. This gives him an income of RM1,400 per month for 20 years upon retirement.

This means that if members contribute consistently and do not leave the formal sector, then they can achieve the basic savings quantum. However, even if members have achieved the basic savings quantum, RM1,400 is (still) lower than the poverty line income, Balqais said.

For context, the basic savings quantum (Akaun 1 only) currently set by the EPF stands at RM240,000 for those at the age of 55, which is equivalent to a monthly income of RM1,000 for 20 years. Malaysias poverty line income, on the other hand, is currently set at RM2,589, raised in 2022 from 2019s rate of RM2,208.

(Image: Mashable)

Given the expected benefits from the implementation of the progressive wage policy, Balqais further revealed that the EPF is now considering to raise the basic savings quantum from RM240,000 to RM340,000. She explained that the basic savings goal is currently set based on the minimum pension for civil servants, which is RM1,000 per month (based on an estimated lifespan of 20 years after retirement).

The EPF basic savings rate is reviewed every three years to ensure that the rate is in line with the economic conditions and the current cost of living. Therefore, the EPF will raise the basic savings quantum from RM240,000 to RM340,000, which will be implemented in phases. This quantum is based on the MyBudget study, taking into account 60% of the minimum expenditure for an elderly person in the Klang Valley, which is RM2,520 per month, Balqais stated.

(Source: Malay Mail)

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Judge denies Sac-Tun injunction filed by American owned company

Riviera Maya, Q.R.  The Eighth District Court in Cancun has rejected an injunction filed by American owned company Sac-Tun. The injunction was filed to prevent the federal government from declaring its land a Protected Natural Area.

The company filed the injunction several weeks ago. The judge considered the request inadmissible since there is no decree declaration, so no object to fight for.

The legal battle heightened after the Government of Mexico published its intention to carry out a study to decree the land protected in November. On December 8, that public consultation will end and could see the government declare the land as a Natural Protected Area.

On that event, the government could then declare the expropriation of the land.

According to President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, the objective is for the declaration to be ready before the end of his government to prevent further limestone extraction in this area of the municipality of Solidaridad.

The land, which is south of Playa del Carmen, is owned by the company and used for stone exploitation that is shipped to the U.S. There are two other pending lawsuits between the U.S. based company and the government of Mexico.

In July, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said he intended to declare Sac-Tun a Natural Protected Jungle Area. After the announcement, the Government of Mexico offered the American company 6.5 billion pesos for the land. The company has never responded to the offer.
Vulture siesta on Chetumal runway creates landing delays for two flights

Chetumal, Q.R.  Two local airlines were left circling the Chetumal International Airport Tuesday after being unable to land. A Viva Aerobus and Aeromexico flight were delayed landing due to a flock of birds.

A flock of vultures chose the Chetumal runway for an afternoon siesta, preventing the two planes from landing. Pilots were made aware of the birds on the runway before they reached the airport, however, as they approached, the birds remained.

It was around 2:00 p.m. Tuesday when the first flight arrived at Chetumal and was forced to circle. The birds had taken up positions on the sides of the runway as well as the runway itself.

An emergency operation to scare the birds into flight was deployed on the Chetumal runway. However, while the birds were being motived to move, a second flight arrived.

The two planes were forced to circle due to a flock of buzzards.

Both planes were instructed to fly higher while ground crews worked to shoo the buzzards off the warm tarmac. The pilots were also made aware of each other sharing the same airspace while the ground situation was resolved.

Both planes circled above the Chetumal airport for nearly 30 minutes while airport crews below worked to get the birds to leave. Eventually, the Viva Aerobus flight, that arrived from Mexico City first, was granted permission to land followed by the Aeromexico flight.
He knows. This John knows. How? Has he peered down into the bottomless pit in the middle of the Wilderness? Seen the Stranger trapped in a small iron Cage lowered on a long iron chain so far into the darkness that only a pinprick of light is visible? And sometimes none at all? Does he know that the Cage sometimes shrinks as it descends and the Affliction electrifies it? Does the mind hurt? Or the body? Where am I? Right. Here I am. Still reading the first page of John Andrew Bryants staggeringly moving and beautiful memoir, A Quiet Mind to Suffer With: Mental Illness, Trauma, and the Death of Christ.

The memoir depicts Bryants OCD-facilitated death to Hardness of Heart and his resurrection through Christs gift of a quiet mind to suffer within expectation of the apocalyptic Amen. At first it may appear Bryant has discreetly clothed mental illness and trauma with polite poetic euphemisms like the Affliction and A Body That Expects the World to End. Yet this is doubtless the most accurate and realistic portrayal of serious mental illness I have ever read. I say this as someone living with diagnosed bipolar and generalized anxiety disorder who has also been hospitalized for mental illness. Although I do not have compulsions, like John, my minds obsessions make me see horrible things. As much as I think it should be widely read, this book, like Aslan, is good but not safe. If the Affliction of mental illness torments you, or if the Past is yet too traumatic, it might not be the right time for this book. Even if you do not live with mental illness, gazing upon an unveiled Affliction is unsettling.

With that in mind, A Quiet Mind to Suffer With begins proclaiming the mystery of Bryants faith in the midst of the Wilderness. Bryant unpacks a unique vocabulary (complete with glossary), such as Affliction or Siren (Bryants mental illness) and Past or a Body That Expects the World to End (trauma), which feeds Hardness of Heart (the compulsion to save yourself or to sin). Yet the forgiveness won by Christ brings Word (Understanding), the Way (Intention), and the Amen (Expectation) into the Wilderness of Affliction and History.

Bryants writing proceeds methodically; each chapter examines the same ideas from slightly different angles. Undoubtedly, some readers will find this repetitious. Yes, Ive already heard about the Siren, the Affliction, the Wilderness, the Mercy, the Word, Understanding, etc. On the other hand, the circuitous writing gives readers a pinprick experience of rumination: the taking of an idea and turning it over in your mind so you behold it from all angles, stopping, stepping away, returning to reexamine it a second, fourth, and tenth time. What is the Siren? Its the Affliction. But its also Whats Wrong. What is Mercy? Word. The Way. And, most fundamentally, Christ. Although OCD creates terrifying ruminations, Bryant here forces the broken logic of the ill mind to slowly reveal otherwise hidden truths with great beauty and power.

At the heart of Bryants crawl through the Wilderness is this paradox: his efforts to save himself led deeper into Whats Wrong, trapped in a Body that Expects the World to End, drifting toward Hell through increasing Hardness of Heart. Only by receiving the Gospelthe Word of Mercydid the Howling Boy come to possess a patient, quiet, understanding that trusts in Christ alone. This understanding trusts Christ with your Affliction, your History of trauma, your shame, and your Hardness of Heart. It trusts Christ Who has already taken everything in us, sanctifying it in His death and resurrection through the forgiveness of sins.

Bryant writes: This memoir is the story of how I was freed from the clutches of the Siren and dragged out of the Realm of Ceaseless Cognition by the terrifying fact of Christ and by the recognition of His voice.  I am dragged forward by what I understand, a Mercy that is not felt or even thought but is still, somehow, understood. But how does one obtain this patient, quiet, understanding? Through the miraculous power of the Word. This Word is: Christ has died, Christ is risen, and Christ will come again. In this Word, Christ gives not information about or a representation of Himself, but Himself. Here we see a complete collapse of the signifier and the signified. Christ is the Word. Christs words are efficacious, what reforming theologian Martin Luther called Action-Words (Thettelworter). The Word creates the quiet understanding that trusts the mercy offered.

Bryant preaches the Word by showing his mental breakdown, a stint in a hospital psychiatric ward, and his recovery. Readers view the Mercy offered but also the trauma of revisiting a History that threatens to morph into What Could Happen and then Worst That Could Happen once again. Bryant returns to the Howling Boy in the psych ward and offers him the Word: I am here to offer the gospel to a prior version of myself. Bryant preaches the forgiveness of sins to the Howling Boy, wholike us allis afflicted with Hardness of Heart. Through forgiveness, Christ unbinds the Howling Boys heart and gifts him a quiet understanding. With understanding, the Spirit bestows an intention to trust Christ. This understanding and intentionan Ordinary Life of Regular Worshipprovides a Way through the Wilderness of this world. Moreover, as we hear, pray, and offer ourselves in service, the Spirit leads to the Mercy that Has Been Given and the Amen of Christs Promised Return.

In the books second section Christ Has DiedBryant describes the journey out of torturous thoughts in the Realm of Ceaseless Cognition through the death of Christ. As a young man, mental illness caused Bryant to retreat into grotesque and overwhelming ideas. The curious reader may wonder just exactly what these terrifying intrusive thoughts were. But Bryant never tells us. To make matters worse, for years Bryant suffered spiritual abuse, which intensified his symptoms. Finally hospitalized, his experience as a patient left him traumatized but provided an opportunity for Mercy to break his Hardness of Heart. Christ harrowed the hellish psych ward in the form of Bryants wife and a kind nurse who neither feared nor pitied him but instead recognized his human dignity. Here Bryant captures how physical presence is often a greater ministry of the Word than words. Bryant left the hospital still miserable. Mercy had not healed him. But it did give understanding: trusting Christ with Affliction and History, and expecting the Amen of peace.

The third sectionChrist Has Risendescribes Bryants slow healing process. Returning home, Bryant found his symptoms worse than ever, like an invisible tentacle monster gripping every aspect of his life. He was afraid of everything and binged-watched TV with no violence or action or meanness. I sought similar fare after the psychiatric hospital: The Great British Bake Off consoled me in my worst moments.

Bryants breakdown occurred in the midst of his ordination process. Honest to a fault, Bryant told his diocesan psychologist details of his intrusive thoughts, ending any chance of a career as a parish priest. Yet this humiliating rejection also meant the death of the wrong expectationof honor and Life as it Should Be. Instead there would be only the silence of Christ and the cross. During this time, Bryant treasured Marks story of Jesus calming the storm. The disciples wanted the storm to end, but Jesus was silent, sleeping on the cushion. Rather than asking for the winds to cease, the disciples ought to have understood who Christ was. Although Christ may not silence the winds or Siren, He is enough.

Over time, Bryant learned to depend on Christ through the Ordinary Life of Regular Worship, consisting of the Rhythm of hearing, prayer, and offering. Using this Thread, Christ gradually pulled Bryant out of the Realm of Ceaseless Cognition, reconciled Bryants Howling Boy, and guided him through the Wilderness. In practice, the Ordinary Life of Regular Worship takes the form of the Anglican Daily Office and the Orthodox Jesus PrayerLord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me. Held secure by this Thread, Bryant became a part-time street minister, riding his wifes bicycle among drug addicts and schizophrenics. Bryant also took up daily swims. Underwater, as Bryant wrestled with God and frantically punched cross-shaped blue pool tiles, the silent Christ stripped him of Life as He Would Have It, and returned to him a small, sanctified life of dependence and intention through prayer.

In the books final sectionChrist Will Come Againwe see the eschatological reconciliation between the John in Whom Mercy was Fulfilled and the Howling Boy in a series of memories. First, Bryant began taking rides on his fathers bike and realized he first entered the Haunted House of OCD at age 17, when he decided to leave others to be alone with his thoughts. Bryant then describes a time he felt well enough to take a vacation with his wife. Leaving home, however, is always perilous for the mentally ill because it disrupts the Rhythm of daily life. Traveling rips the carefully constructed safety bumpers away, threatening to send you careening into the abyss. This began to happen as Bryant sat in a cabin with his wife contemplating the mountains. But something else also happened. Standing puny beneath the shadow of the mountains, Bryant realized the OCD that made him vulnerable was also a place of deliverance, of waiting. Intrusive thoughts were an instruction in Mercytrusting in Christ, not having a healthy mind, is what makes you okay. Finally, in a visit to the beach, the waves and threatening riptide became a metaphor for the sudden ability of mental illness to take everything. Yet, in the end, Bryant writes its this everything and our trust in it that destroys us; not the waves of life in a fallen world. Only trust in Christ offers a sandbar, a firm place to stand amid the waves. Through an Ordinary Life of hearing, prayer, and offering, Christ clothes the shame, casts out the fear, endures every affliction, bears all history, mends all brokenness, overturns all accusation, and buries the hardness of hard. And does this by His Word.

Oddly, given the structure of A Quiet Mind around a eucharistic acclamation, Bryant has relatively little to say about the role of the sacraments his Quiet Life of Ordinary Worship. In the dominical sacraments, God joins his Word to water, bread, and wine. In so doing, he offers us a visible, tangible Word. The same Word, to be sure, but one that we bodily creatures can see, feel, and taste. When feelings and even senses deceive and reality seems uncertain, the value of Christs eucharistic presence cannot be underestimated. Here is an objectively real meeting with the Risen Christ for the forgiveness of sins. In another Lexham publication, Spiritual Warfare: For the Care of Souls, Lutheran pastor Harold Ristau describes visiting a severely mentally ill woman in a hospital: She didnt want me to do much talking, praying, or preaching. She simply asked me for holy Communion.  Her faith fluctuated.  Her heart was unreliable.  Her thoughts scrambled. She found no peace from looking inside of herself. She knew to look outside. She claimed that the Lords consecrated breadJesus bodywas her only stabilizer and reality check. When trapped in the Haunted House of psychosis, the True Body and Blood of Christ were the Thread of reality leading toward the Amen.

During his time in the psych ward, Bryant was clearly in no state to chat with his fellow patients. But what he found in a kindly nurse, I providentially found in the handful of others confined to my block. Unlike Bryant, who apparently had nothing to do but think while in the hospital, I barely had time to think between the endless group-therapy sessions, adult coloring, and holiday movie viewing (I watched Home Alone II). I also spent a lot of time talking but also listening to the other patients. These, I quickly learned, were my kind of people. Schizophrenics, near-miss suicides, hard drug abusers, anorexics, and more. Many were also brothers and sisters in Christ who spoke the Word of Mercy to me between fragmented stories of overdoses and breakdowns.

Like Bryant, I found the period after hospitalizations infinitely worse than the period before. But a combination of psychotropic medications, a calm highly structured life, and the physical presence of family and friends gradually brought healing. Similar to Bryant, the liturgy of the Divine Service with its Rhythm of Word and Sacrament was central to my recovery. Christ visited through the liturgical Word, which also provided an unchanging roadmap to Christ when my thoughts were too fast or scrambled. Today churches too often concern themselves with developing seeker-friendly and safe services. The mentally ill, those living with personality disorders, and the neurodivergent seldom factor into these considerations. While liturgies may differ, Bryants portrayal of the impact of Ordinary Worship should be essential reading for priests, ministers, and other church leaders.

A Quiet Mind to Suffer With shows that, in some ways, the mentally ill have a spiritual advantage. Those living with severe mental illness know all too well that everything could be or has been taken from usand what we do have is certainly nothing worthy of God. Only Christs Mercy, delivered through the Word, can give the quiet understanding that creates the intention of worshiping through the Wilderness on the way to the promised Amen. We do nothing. The Word does everything. This realization shatters the self but is also sublime.

Indeed, the shattering Word of Mercy is not painless. Bryant rightly notes that Mercy strikes and burns when it saves us by destroying our self-reliance and pride. Here readers surely remember Eustace Scrubb in C.S. Lewis Chronicles of Narnia. Poor Eustace transformed into a dragon who tried to save himself by scratching off his own sinful scales. Only Aslan could painfully tear away the dragon skin to renew the boy underneath. The purgatorial experience was horribly painful but also strangely satisfying.

The reason for this pain remains mysterious. In the end, Bryant presents the utter failure of theodicies, those vain attempts to give answers to Why suffering? All theodicy must fail because we cannot answer Suffering, and especially not our own Suffering.  And yet Suffering demands an answer. But Suffering will receive no answer this side of glory. Instead it receives a Word. Mercy. Christ. Christ who suffered, died, rose again, and will come to judge the quick and the dead. We receive God Himself who takes all our pain and in return bestows the forgiveness of sins and the sure hope of eternal life when all manner of things will be well. God does not explain why we have been cast into Affliction with the Siren. Instead, He sits down in Affliction with us, takes the Siren into His own Body, and returns it to us sanctified.
A disabled woman is claiming she was harassed and discriminated against as a tenant of a Christiansburg apartment owned by a Virginia lawmaker.

The allegations against Del. Marie March, R-Floyd, were made in a lawsuit filed Friday in Roanokes federal court.

Debra Long, in the lawsuit, says she rented an apartment last year from March and her company, Big Bear Properties. Long alleges that a maintenance man for the complex sexually harassed and threatened her to the point where she was forced to obtain a protective order against him.

When March learned of the situation, the lawsuit claims, she retaliated against Long by banning her grandson, who was a Medicaid-approved caregiver for the 66-year old woman, from staying at the apartment.

Long  who suffers from a number of ailments including chronic pain syndrome, nerve damage and neuropathy  was left unable to eat properly or care for herself, the lawsuit claims.

When Long appealed for help, March responded by saying she was not running a nursing home and suggested that any complaints would be a losing battle because of her position as a state legislator, according to the lawsuit.

After serving one term in the House of Delegates, March lost her bid for the Republican nomination to run for reelection and will soon be leaving office. Her tenure was marked by several controversies, including zoning disputes with Pulaski County officials and an encounter with her GOP opponent, Del. Wren Williams, at a political meeting.

A judge dismissed a charge of assault that March filed against Williams, who went on to win the November election in the 47th District, which includes Floyd, Carroll, Patrick and part of Henry counties, and Galax.

March did not respond Tuesday to a text seeking comment.

In her lawsuit, Long said she was forced to move out of her $500-a-month apartment in September 2022 and rent a second place to live, while still paying for the first until her lease expired the following year.

The lawsuit, which asserts violations of the federal Fair Housing Act and the Virginia Fair Housing Law, seeks damages for Longs financial and emotional harm. The 23-page filing does not list a specific amount.
Virginia State Police have identified the man who was fatally shot by Roanoke officers outside a Melrose area apartment complex Sunday.

David Adam McFall, 39, of Roanoke, was the victim of the officer-involved shooting, which is under the investigation of the state police departments Salem division.

Roanoke police reported Sunday that a man  McFall  had been identified as a suspect in connection to a stabbing incident at a residence on Lawrence Avenue Southeast.

When Roanoke officers approached McFall outside the Melrose Towers complex Sunday afternoon, he drew and fired a gun, striking a female officer. Other officers returned fire.

The female officer was hospitalized, and the Roanoke department said Monday she is recovering. McFall was pronounced dead on the scene.

Rich Garletts, state police public information officer, said in an email Tuesday that once the departments investigation is complete, their findings and evidence will be turned over to the Roanoke Commonwealths Attorney Office for review.

The Virginia State Police will have no further comments on this investigation, Garletts email concluded.
CHRISTIANSBURG  Del. Joe McNamara sat down with Montgomery County supervisors Monday for what may be his last time going over the countys annual wish list for the General Assembly  and said he saw little chance of most of it being approved.

And when the new legislative session begins in January, it might be better for the county not to agitate too loudly for its hopes of revamping the state formulas that allocate education and road funds, he added.

We will absolutely lose.  Were benefitting pretty good so Id definitely advise us to stay quiet about that, McNamara said.

The Salem Republicans explanation: Because Democrats will hold majorities in both the House of Delegates and state Senate when the new session starts, any re-calculation might steer money away from Republican areas. And Republican districts, including most of Southwest Virginia, already tend to receive more money than they pay in taxes because they are lower-income than other parts of Virginia, McNamara said.

McNamara, who first won a General Assembly seat in a 2018 special election, will represent part of Montgomery County until the end of this year. Last month he won re-election, but in a re-drawn district whose boundaries no longer include Montgomery County.

Sitting with McNamara Monday was Del. Chris Obenshain, R-Christiansburg, who just won his first election in the district that now includes much of the county. Del. Jason Ballard, R-Giles, and Sen. David Suetterlein, R-Roanoke County, whose districts also include swathes of Montgomery County, were unable to attend, McNamara said.

Only four of the seven county supervisors were present. School board members  who last week met with supervisors and discussed teaming up for more effectiveness when meetings with legislators  were not there.

McNamara said that hed seen most of the countys list before and that there will be people all over Virginia going after these broad objectives. He said that the county would do better to seek more specifically local items, like state permission for starting the school year earlier.

McNamara told Supervisor Mary Biggs, a Democrat, that he had heard her request for more education funding probably 40 times and that Republicans in the General Assembly had in the past two years increased money for schools a total of about 30 percent.

Republicans are more in tune with education needs than Democrats, McNamara said.

The supervisors list cited a recent study by the Virginia Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission that found Virginias per-pupil funding for K-12 education is below national and regional averages, and also less than per-pupil funding in neighboring Kentucky, West Virginia and Maryland.

McNamara urged supervisors to take it up with Del. Sam Rasoul, D-Roanoke, who on Monday was named as the new chairman of the House Education Committee and also sits on the House Appropriations Committee.

Supervisor Todd King told McNamara that he thought the General Assembly was imposing yet another unfunded mandate on school systems by ending the pandemic-related funding for tutors. McNamara replied that the funding was federal, passed through the state, and that the tutor positions were supposed to be temporary.

A school-related item on the supervisors list that has stirred arguments within the county during the past two years was support for school vouchers. A Republican majority among the supervisors put vouchers on the legislative wish list for two years, this year with Democrat Sara Bohn joining them for a 5-2 vote. But last months elections upended the GOP dominance, and in January, Democrats will have a 5-2 majority on the Montgomery County board.

Outgoing Supervisor Sherri Blevins, the boards chairwoman, emphasized Monday that vouchers had not been unanimous among the county officials. McNamara said that regardless, he thought there was zero chance that a Democrat-controlled General Assembly would approve any sort of school voucher system.

McNamara predicted a moderate session where Democratic legislators and Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin would seek consensus on tax reforms and doing something to improve mental health care and affordable housing. The only CPA in the House, McNamara said that state revenues were on track to exceed last years, meaning there would be money for whatever priorities the governor and legislature could agree on.

I dont want to say everythings terrible because its not, McNamara said, adding that he saw Montgomery County as a purple county and Virginia as a purple state.

Other items on the countys legislative list included seeking money for the Valley to Valley Trail that is to provide a hiking and biking link between the New River and Roanoke valleys, a continued push to extend Amtrak service to Christiansburg, opposing eliminating qualified immunity for law enforcement officers and government officials, enhancing retirement benefits for 911 dispatchers, and improving internet access.

An item that the supervisors and McNamara returned to several times  laughing  sought legislative permission for the county to end its animal license tax for retired K-9 police and military dogs.

McNamara said that the county would need no special permission to just do away with the entire tax. But for the state to step in and say the county should issue some licenses without collecting a fee could be seen as imposing an unfunded mandate, he added.

The supervisors groaned.

Theyre just small dogs! exclaimed Supervisor Steve Fijalkowski.
For the fictional genre in film, mythology-themed stories are among the best and most interesting ones, especially if it's about something you've already heard of. Greek history and mythology have been the subject of many movies and shows because of their interesting concepts. Here are some that would teach you about them.

1. 'Clash of the Titans'

Greek literature has no shortage of heroes, particularly those who are godly in nature because of their parentage. "Clash of the Titans" tells the story of the demigod Perseus, who was the son of Zeus, and Danae, who was the Princess of Argos.

There are some inaccuracies, such as Danae being the wife of King Acrisius instead of his daughter. The writers took some creative liberties, but it made the movie all the more exciting. You'll also meet the big three among the Olympian gods, namely Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades.

You can watch it on Apple TV

2. 'Troy'

The film starring Brad Pitt, Orlando Bloom, and Rose Byrne was a hit when it was released, and it still is now. It revolves around the story of Paris stealing away King Menelaus's wife, Helen, who was described as the most beautiful woman in all of Greece.

This starts a war, with one side behind the great walls of Troy and the other filled with Menelaus and Agamemnon's armies, along with the Achilles. You've probably heard of the man who was dipped in the River Styx as a baby, which granted him invincibility. This movie tells those amazing tales.

You can watch it on Netflix

3. 'Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief'

This one is a bit of a mix since there are Greek elements there that are concrete, like the Olympian gods, but there are also new demigods whose stories are loosely based on heroes from Greek literature, such as Percy, which is short for Perseus.

There are scenarios that depict familiar narratives, like Percy killing Medusa by looking at her reflection. Even in the sequel, Percy and his friends travel to the sea of monsters and encounter Charybdis, who is also met by Odysseus on his journey home.

You can watch it on Disney+

Read Also: 7 Best Animal Companions in Animated Disney Movies

4. 'Hercules'

The animated movie by Disney follows the life of arguably the most known Greek hero of them all, Hercules, who is the son of Zeus. He was known for his strength and his victories in accomplishing the 12 labors that were given to him.

Since it was a children's movie, it was given a softer storyline and even some deviations, but a lot of the Greek stories are there, such as the demigod defeating the hydra and the Nemean lion. As for accuracy, the writers had to make Zeus look like a doting husband, of course.

You can watch it on Disney+

5. '300'

This was the movie where the iconic one-liner "This is Sparta!" came from as he kicked the Persian herald into the dark pit. The story revolves around the brave act of King Leonidas as he faced the invading Persians with just 300 men.

In Greek literature, this was considered the move that saved Greece. As the Spartans fought as hard as they could, it gave the Greek world enough time to assemble their armies and strike with a united front to push the Persians out.

You can watch it on Netflix

Related: 6 Movies That Deserve to Have a Sequel
Roanoke County celebrated a year of economic development and investment Tuesday morning, including what board of supervisors Chairwoman Martha Hooker called the largest business expansion in the countys history.

The annual state-of-the-county breakfast event drew about 300 people to the Green Ridge Recreation Center, where Hooker recapped the year in an address bracketed by videos the county produced to showcase itself. After the first video played on large screens  several minutes of scenic views interspersed with shots of technology workers, hikers, students and law enforcement officers  Hooker said that the county had much to be proud of and that the video was exceptional in capturing that pride.

The year-in-review talk itself was a list of 2023s greatest hits for the county, starting with Wells Fargos September launch of an $87 million expansion that Hooker said was bigger than any previous such announcement in Roanoke County. When the expansion is complete, Wells Fargo will be Roanoke Countys largest employer, she said.

Prior reports have said in the next four years, Wells Fargo plans to add at least 1,000 jobs to the 1,650 it already has in the county.

Hooker also lauded the Galen College of Nursings $4 million redevelopment plan, Vistar Eye Centers new $6 million facility in the Hollins area and Carilion Clinics establishing an $11.5 million mental health center at its Tanglewood location.

She cited infrastructure improvements in the county that included $320 million of transportation projects presently in progress, among them work on Interstate 81 and the planned pedestrian bridge across Virginia 311 at the McAfee Knob parking lot. The county continues to invest in the Blacksburg Roanoke Regional Airport and is planning a diverging diamond intersection to link U.S. 220 and Virginia 419, Hooker said.

In another area of infrastructure, the county is working to improve internet access, she said.

Hooker said recreation offerings also fared well in 2023, with a trailhead shuttle at McAfee Knob carrying more than 1,500 riders and 15 pickleball courts built at the Green Ridge center. At Explore Park, the T-Rex trail drew more than 9,000 visitors during the summer, while more than 53,000 people attended the Illuminights event in its year-end run at the close of 2022, Hooker said.

She reminded her audience that the 2023 Illuminights is going on now and will run for another three weeks.

Amid the expansions, supervisors dropped taxes, reducing Roanoke Countys real estate tax rate by 3 cents, its personal property tax rate by 10 cents, and its machinery and tools tax rate by 5 cents, Hooker said. Supervisors remain committed to putting tax dollars directly back into citizens hands, Hooker said.

The countys schools system is planning a new career and technical education center, and has been recognized for the apprentice program that is run in cooperation with Roanoke and Salem, Hooker said.

Roanoke County is updating its Comprehensive Plan, which has guided growth around Tanglewood Mall, among other areas, she added.

And the county is having its highest job growth since 1994, adding 20,500 jobs for a 2.5% increase since 2022, Hooker said.

Hooker wound up her review with thanks to Mike Wray, a former supervisor who also served two terms on the county school board, and who is retiring at the end of the month.

We have a lot to be proud of, Hooker said.
Roanokes federal courthouse should bear the name of a civil rights lawyer who fought school segregation  not a congressman who defended it, Virginias two senators say.

U.S. Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine introduced legislation Wednesday that would rename the Richard H. Poff Federal Building as the Reuben E. Lawson Federal Building.

Reuben Lawson dedicated his life and career to fighting against segregation and paving the way for historic civil rights action, the senators, both Democrats, said in a joint statement.

We are proud to introduce this legislation, which would ensure Mr. Lawsons relentless pursuit of social justice is cemented in Roanoke and remembered across Virginia, they said.

The 14-story building on Franklin Road, which houses the courts and some offices of the federal government, has borne the late Poffs name since it opened in 1975.

While serving the 6th District in the House of Representatives, Poff in 1956 signed the so-called Southern Manifesto, which maintained that states should resist the federal governments order to integrate schools.

After a nearly 20-year legislative tenure, the Radford native was later appointed to the Virginia Supreme Court before his death in 2011.

As a congressman, Poff voted against the Civil Rights Acts of 1957, 1960, 1964 and 1968 and opposed the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

At about the same time, a Black civil rights attorney in Roanoke was quietly crusading to rewrite a history rooted in the Jim Crow era of racism.

Lawson filed the regions first desegregation lawsuit in in 1960, which led to a federal judge ordering Floyd County Public Schools to admit 13 students who had been excluded from the all-white student population.

Similar legal challenges followed in Roanoke and Lynchburg and the counties of Grayson, Pulaski and Roanoke. Together, the cases put an end to segregation in Southwest Virginia that was still carried out in the years following the landmark Brown v. Board of Education ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1954.

Lawson, a soft-spoken man who died in 1963, has been described as one of Roanokes undeservedly forgotten legal titans.

The idea of renaming the Poff Building was first broached last year by John Fishwick, a prominent Roanoke lawyer and former U.S. Attorney, and the Rev. Edward Burton, the retired long-time pastor of Sweet Union Baptist Church.

Burton said he got to know Lawson through their work with the Roanoke chapter of he NAACP.

Reuben was soft-spoken and easy to relate to, but worked tirelessly and enthusiastically to integrate the schools in our region through the courts, Burton said in the statement issued by Warner and Kaine.

Burton and Fishwick worked with other community members in building support for their proposal, which was backed earlier this year by the Roanoke City Council.

His legacy and fearlessness during a turbulent time of civil unrest throughout our country has long been overlooked, and naming Roanokes federal building in his honor will give Mr. Lawson the recognition he deserves, Fishwick said.

Lawsons relatively short career  he died at the age of 43  was overshadowed to some degree by his work with the legendary Oliver Hill, a Roanoke native who went on to practice law in Richmond and handled high-profile civil rights case. The Roanoke City Courthouse is named after Hill.

The proposed legislation was introduced by Warner and Kaine Wednesday, on what would have been Lawsons 103rd birthday.
The U.S. Supreme Court turned down a request Tuesday to pause work on three sections of the Mountain Valley Pipeline while a lawsuit by landowners is pending.

In a brief order, Chief Justice John Roberts denied a petition for an emergency injunction made last week by three couples who are challenging the pipelines use of eminent domain to take their land.

Roberts, the designated justice to hear emergency appeals in a circuit that includes Virginia, did not explain his decision.

Although that is not unusual  and the chances of getting an injunction were slim  the property owners attorney said they are disappointed there was not closer scrutiny of what may the last legal attempt to slow work on the controversial natural gas pipeline.

Were talking about a for-profit land grab here  the forcible seizure of private land for private gain, Mia Yugo of Roanoke wrote in an email Wednesday.

They are literally taking property from one private party and handing it to another  to make money. Historically, that is not the proper use of eminent domain, she said.

Yugo represents landowners who contend Congress improperly delegated its power to seize their property to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which oversees the construction of natural gas pipelines. FERC then gave that eminent domain authority to Mountain Valley, after finding there was a public need for the gas it will transport.

The lawsuit  filed on behalf of Cletus and Beverly Bohon of Montgomery County, Robert and Aimee Hamm of Roanoke County and Wendell and Mary Flora of Franklin County  is currently pending in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia.

While short-lived, the injunction request marked the third time this year that a Mountain Valley case reached the nations highest court.

In April, the Supreme Court revived the landowners lawsuit, which had been dismissed by a U.S. District judge who found that he lacked jurisdiction to hear the matter.

Then, in a different case in July, the court lifted a stay on construction issued by the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Over the past six years, a three-judge panel of the appeals court has thrown out nearly a dozen government permits issued to Mountain Valley, slowing construction and increasing costs for the now $7.2 billion project.

The Fourth Circuit had ordered work to halt while it considered a constitutional challenge to a law, passed by Congress over the summer, that fast-tracked completion of the 303-mile pipeline that passes through Southwest Virginia.

But in allowing work to proceed, the Supreme Court cut short a case in which environmental and community groups opposed to the project argued that lawmakers overstepped their authority by passing a law that prohibited the Fourth Circuit from hearing legal challenges.

More recently, attorneys for Mountain Valley cited the law  which included a bailout for the project in a larger piece of legislation that raised the countys debt ceiling to avert a government shutdown  in asking the D.C. Court of Appeals to dismiss Yugos case.

Yugo responded by arguing that the law violated the separation of powers doctrine outlined in the U.S. Constitution.

While that claim is still alive, it likely will not be decided until sometime next year. By then, the pipeline may already be complete.

At the end of the day, I think these multi-year odysseys have exposed a terrible injustice for the little guy  for Cletus, Beverly, Wendell, Mary, Aimee, and Matt  who are waiting years for their day in court while the multi-billion dollar corporations bulldoze their land, Yugo said. The Constitution is supposed to protect the little guy, not the special interests.
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Email Thomas Elias at tdelias@aol.com. His book, "The Burzynski Breakthrough, The Most Promising Cancer Treatment and the Governments Campaign to Squelch It" is now available in a soft cover fourth edition. For more Elias columns, visit www.californiafocus.net
Arkansas Times columnist Gene Lyons is a National Magazine Award winner and co-author of "The Hunting of the President" (St. Martin's Press, 2000). You can email Lyons at eugenelyons2@yahoo.com.
The European Commission warned Amazon to pledge to fairly rank iRobot's market rivals if it seeks approval for the $1.4 billion acquisition.

Read Also: Amazon is Likely to Win EU's Antitrust Approval for iRobot Acquisition

EU Commission Continues Worry on Anti-Competition

For the past months, the EU watchdog has been vocal in its objection to Amazon's acquisition of iRobot, citing that it will create unfair competition in the robot vacuum cleaner industry. "The main issue is to be sure to have a fair treatment of all the different actors," acting commissioner for competition, Didier Reynders stated.

Moreover, the commission is worried that once Amazon gets the approval for iRobot it will eventually demote other robot vacuum cleaners on its platform. For instance, the company could place its own products with promotional labels such as "Amazon's choice" or "Works with Alexa."

Hence, Reynders suggested that Amazon should pledge that it would correctly place and rank the rival vacuum cleaners on its platform to ensure fair treatment regardless of ownership.

Amazon, iRobot Relationship

The negotiation between iRobot and Amazon has been over a year already. Last August 2022, the e-commerce giant announced its plans to include the Roomba robot vacuum as part of the company's long list of smart devices. Meanwhile, iRobot has been welcoming the acquisition since then.

"I'm hugely excited to be a part of Amazon and to see what we can build together for customers in the years ahead," iRobot CEO Colin Angle shared in a previous statement.

As of writing, Amazon has yet to issue a response on whether it will abide by Reynenders' suggestion to pledge. Previously, Meta and Amazon cleared the Competition and Market Authority's antitrust investigation after pledging to improve services.

Related Article: CMA Wraps Up Antitrust Investigations on Amazon, Meta
Local actor Edwin Goh made a surprise announcement of his departure from Mediacorp. He currently resides in Sydney with girlfriend, and actress, Rachel Wan. (Photo: Instagram/edwininja)

Local actor Edwin Goh has left Mediacorp after 14 years.

In a surprise announcement via Instagram on Tuesday (5 December), the 29-year-old released a video of him turning in his work pass at the broadcasting station in Singapore, and spoke about what hes been up to Australia.

Goh thanked Mediacorp for the years of growth, experience and opportunities, and for providing him a space to grow up in. His acting debut was in the 2009 drama Fighting Spiders when he was just 15.

Goh and his girlfriend Wan announced their move to Sydney in June and a month later, released a video about why they decided to move and what it takes to move there.

They said they had a "comfortable life" in Singapore but they "were not fully living".

"Singapore's fast-paced lifestyle really kind of burnt me out," said Wan then.

The duo are on work and holiday visas, which allow them to work legally for up to a year.

How Edwin Goh has tried to make money in Australia

Though Goh and Wan run a crochet business, they arent just relying on that as their source of income it seems.

They didnt share what they were doing back in July, but in this latest video, Goh revealed that hes tried working in retail, with clips of him behind the counter at various stores.

He said, Its exciting because though Ive had a lot of onscreen occupations, Ive never had a real life occupation other than acting and Ive learnt a lot from it.

Goh has also been auditioning for gigs and honing his craft at a performing arts school.

Apart from his girlfriend Wan, other local celebrities - like Cynthia Koh, Hong Ling, Zoe Tay and Rayson Tan - left supportive comments on his post.

American actor and host Bobby Tonelli also wrote, Life is short. Make every moment count. Can tell you that your experiences at Mediacorp have given you an edge over many artistes abroad.

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Certain categories like Singaporeans, long-term Malaysia pass holders, Brunei common identification certificates, and Thai border pass holders are not required to fill out the digital arrival card. (PHOTO: REUTERS/Lim Huey Teng)

SINGAPORE  Commencing on 1 January 2024, most foreign travellers visiting Malaysia will need to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). The MDAC serves as an online pre-arrival form and must be filled out up to three days before arriving in Malaysia.

This implementation is part of the control and enforcement measures amid the country's Visa Liberalisation Plan, which is intended to attract foreign tourists and bolster its revenue.

Home Affairs Minister Saifuddin Nasution has nonetheless told Malaysian media at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 on Tuesday (5 December) that the authorities will allow some flexibility for completing this digital card until 31 December.

Here are three points to note regarding the latest immigration requirement for travellers to Malaysia:

1. Who is required to complete the digital arrival card?

Singaporeans, Malaysia long-term pass holders, individuals with Brunei common identification certificates, and holders of Thai border passes do not need to fill out the MDAC.

All travellers who do not fall within the above exemptions must complete and submit their digital forms three days before arriving in Malaysia.

Initially, confusion arose regarding the card's application to all foreign travellers, notably those driving from Singapore or using manual immigration counters at Malaysia's land checkpoints. However, Saifuddin clarified during Tuesday's press conference that frequent travellers to Malaysia are not required to complete the MDAC.

"They usually cross the country's borders on a regular basis, so it is realistic to exempt them due to their distinctive pattern of mobility," he said.

2. What is the submission process for the MDAC?

Each un-exempted foreign traveller is required to fill out the MDAC on the Immigration Department's website within three days prior to planned arrival in Malaysia.

This process needs to be completed for every visit to the country. There is no fee charged for submitting the form.

Story continues

There is a grace period in effect until 31 December, permitting foreign travellers to complete the form upon arrival at Malaysia's international entry points. However, starting 1 January, they must complete the form prior to arrival.

Travellers filling out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card must also specify their date of arrival and departure, mode of travel and last port of embarkation. (PHOTO: Screengrab/Immigration Department of Malaysia website)

The digital arrival card was first implemented in January as a requirement for Singapore passport holders to utilise electronic gate facilities at Johor Bahru's two land entry points. Malaysia's Immigration Department implemented updated regulations on 1 December, requiring all travellers to submit their MDACs before entering the country.

3. After submitting the arrival card, what are the next steps upon arrival?

Upon arrival in Malaysia, foreign travellers must present a valid passport and a completed digital arrival card for validation before heading through the immigration counter.

Tourists arriving from specific countries such as Australia, New Zealand, United States, United Kingdom, Brunei, Saudi Arabia and Singapore have the option to use Malaysia's automated entry system, known as the autogate.

To enrol for this system, first-time visitors need to verify their passports at a manual immigration counter upon arrival, before utilising the autogate during their departure. Those who have already registered their passports during a prior visit can use the autogate directly for entry and exit.

All arrivals need to possess a valid passport. Passports must be valid for at least six months for arrivals at Malaysian airports, while those arriving through land checkpoints need passports valid for at least three months.

For newcomers, enrolling and verifying passports at a manual counter upon arrival is mandatory before using the autogate when departing. (PHOTO: Immigration Department of Malaysia/Website)

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A diagnosis of pancreas cancer can be emotionally devastating to patients, given the diseases typically poor outcomes.

Now a University of Nebraska Medical Center researcher is studying whether a one-time, professionally guided use of psilocybin, the active component in so-called magic mushrooms, can alleviate the distress suffered by those patients.

Dr. Lou Lukas, an associate professor in UNMCs internal medicine division of palliative medicine, will discuss that work and other aspects of psychedelics in medicine Tuesday during a 7 p.m. Science Cafe presentation at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. The sessions, which are free and open to anyone, include a brief presentation by a scientist on a current topic followed by a question-and-answer period.

Currently, researchers are studying psilocybin and other psychedelic drugs for a number of conditions, from post-traumatic stress disorder to substance abuse. Psychedelic drugs currently are in the Food and Drug Administrations pipeline as treatments for major depression and treatment-resistant depression.

Lukas said researchers at Johns Hopkins University and New York University have reported significant, long-lasting, reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety among cancer patients. She began her venture into psychedelic research more than a decade ago as a volunteer at Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research. As a palliative care doctor in the Baltimore area, she helped recruit cancer patients for a cancer trial there. She got to know members of the research group, who have served as her mentors as she has launched her study, which she believes is the first of its kind in the area.

Were seeing the same thing, said Lukas, who also is chief of palliative medicine at the Omaha VA Medical Center. People are saying, Wow, I didnt know I could feel this good again.

Lukas said the stress associated with pancreas cancer, one of the most lethal types, is particularly high. UNMC established its Center of Excellence in Pancreatic Cancer in 2018 and clinical partner Nebraska Medicine was recognized earlier this year as a Center of Excellence by the National Pancreas Foundation.

The study, known as a feasibility trial, will enroll 12 patients who will participate for a year. She hopes eventually to expand the program.

Lukas stressed that the sessions are conducted in a carefully controlled setting. The researchers use pharmacy-grade chemicals, formulated into a pill, not actual mushrooms, so they know the exact dose. People should not try to simulate the experience at home, she said.

Volunteers who meet medical criteria meet with researchers for three 90-minute sessions to get to know them, form a trusting relationship and prepare for the psychedelic experience, she said. During the therapy, participants are accompanied by two facilitators for the four- to six-hour experience. Patients return the next day and several times afterward to discuss the experience and what theyve taken away from it.

Lukas said research over the past decades indicates that the process works on two levels. The molecule influences the behavior of nerves and networks in the brain. At the same time, participants are having experiences that seem real to them. The neuronal changes at the biological level help make their neural connections more adaptable. By recalling memories from the experience, participants are kind of helping seal those neurons ... in a better place than they were before, she said.

She noted, however, that there is a lot of hype around the drugs. They are tools that can help people find resources inside themselves to heal their bodies and minds, she said, but patients still have to work to get better. A patient who has struggled for years with a condition like major depression, for instance, still will need a lot of healing.

Mental health practitioners will need training to be able to use them. Lukas recently conducted a four-part educational series for practitioners through the University of Nebraska at Omahas social work department. Between 120 and 160 area professionals attended each session.

These are very powerful molecules, she said. They have a profound impact on humans. We need to treat them with respect and we need to go slow.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of November 2023
SIOUX CITY  The City of Sioux City is reminding citizens to be "safe and responsible pet owners" by licensing their pets.

The 2024 pet tags are now available at the Customer Service Center in City Hall, Animal Adoption and Rescue, 2400 Hawkeye Dr., and at participating veterinarians' offices.

All pet licenses expire on Dec. 31 of the license year. Renewal notices have been mailed to current pet license holders, reminding them to renew their pet's license. The cost of the license is $15 for neutered cats and dogs, $31 for unneutered (intact) cats and $50 for unneutered (intact) dogs. Pets must be vaccinated for rabies before a license can be issued.

Citizens are reminded that penalties will be added to pet licenses issued after March 1. If pet licenses are obtained after March 1, a $15 penalty will be added to each license fee. A $20 penalty will be added after April 1 and a $25 penalty after May 1.

Call 712-224-7387 or visit sioux-city.org/petlicensing for information on pet licenses.
SIOUX CITY -- The 185th Air Refueling Wing on Tuesday named four Airmen of the Year.

The honorees are:

Senior Airmen Molly Vondrak;

Staff Sgt. Morgan Erdman;

Master Sgt. Shane Potts;

First Sgt. Brittnie Willett.

Vondrak was chosen as the 185th Air Refueling Wing Airmen or the Year in the Airmen category, according to a press release from the 185th. She's in her first enrollment and has been working full time as a plans scheduling and documentation specialist in the Maintenance Operation Flight. Vondrak recently applied and has been selected to become a KC-135 Boom Operator with the 185th Air Refueling Wing.

Erdman was named the 185th Air Refueling Wing Airmen of the Year in the NCO category. Erdman is a prior service U.S. Marine who now works with the 185th Air Transportation Squadron as a traditional guard member. When she is not deployed or working at the Air Guard on drill weekends, Erdman is busy parenting her three foster children, according to the press release.

Potts was selected as the 185th Air Refueling Wing Airmen of the year in the Senior NCO category. Potts began his career as a traditional guard member where he worked in power production. Potts now works full time in the 185th ARW Civil Engineering as the facilities manager.

Willett was named the 185th Air Refueling Wing Airmen of the year in the 1st Sgt. Category. Willett is a traditional member of the Iowa Air National Guard and works full time as a realtor in Sioux City.

Each year, Airmen from around the Air Force are selected to represent their commands as part of the annual Airmen of the Year recognition program, according to the press release.
SIOUX CITY  The Sioux City Police Department is seeking the public's help in locating a suspect wanted in connection with a Sunday homicide, as well as two persons of interest.

Detectives are looking for Faron Alan Starr, who is a suspect in the fatal shooting of 31-year-old Nathaniel John Parker III, according to a statement from the department. They are also attempting to locate Nathaniel Earlwin Frazier and Amanda Lynn Hayes, who are described as "persons of interest."

"Subjects should be considered armed and dangerous," the statement said.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Sioux City Police Department at 712-279-6440 or anonymously at 712-258-TIPS.

In November 2022, Starr pleaded not guilty of stabbing his ex-girlfriend. He is scheduled to stand trial in Woodbury County District Court in February on charges of willful injury, second-degree burglary, going armed with intent, third-offense domestic abuse assault and two counts of felon in possession of a firearm. A public bench warrant was filed for Starr on Oct. 25, according to court documents.

At 11:58 p.m. Sunday, police responded to a call of shots fired in the 500 block of Ninth St.

At the scene, they found Parker with a single gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

On Nov. 7, a Woodbury County jury found Parker guilty of assault causing bodily injury for the Feb. 24 death of William Harlan Jr., who was fatally stabbed in the back seat of a car in which Parker was riding with him.

Parker had been charged with first-degree murder and had faced an automatic mandatory sentence of life in prison without parole. Instead, he was found guilty of the lesser charge, a serious misdemeanor that carries a one-year jail sentence.

Parker had been in jail since his Feb. 24 arrest. After the Nov. 7 verdict, District Judge Jeffrey Neary, who presided over his trial, ordered Parker to be released from custody on his own recognizance pending a Nov. 21 sentencing hearing.

At 4:38 a.m. on Nov. 8, hours after getting out of jail, Parker was found climbing up a fire escape in the same block where he would be shot month less than a month later. He was drunk, half naked and had a minor stab wound. Parker was booked into the Woodbury County Jail early on Nov. 8 on a charge of public intoxication, a simple misdemeanor. He pleaded guilty and received a one-day suspended jail sentence.

On Nov. 21, Neary sentenced Parker to probation for the stabbing. He gave Parker credit for 221 days served in jail while awaiting trial and suspended a one-year jail sentence on a charge of assault causing bodily injury. Neary sentenced him to 30 days in jail on a related drug possession charge, and credited Parker for time served. Parker was placed on probation for one year.
Republican presidential candidates Ron DeSantis and Vivek Ramaswamy will appear on town halls held in Iowa and televised by CNN next week, the cable news network reported Tuesday.

Grand View University in Des Moines will host the town halls.

DeSantis, the governor of Florida, will appear with CNNs Jake Tapper on Tuesday, Dec. 12, at 8 p.m.

Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur from Ohio, will appear with CNNs Abby Phillip on Wednesday, Dec. 13, at 8 p.m.

The candidates will take questions from the moderators and a live audience of Iowans who intend to participate in the Iowa Republican caucuses on Jan. 15, CNN said.

In addition to showing on CNN, the town halls will stream live on CNN Max, and will be available on demand to subscribers via CNN.com, CNN apps and Cable Operator Platforms.

New DeSantis ad urges Iowans to move on from Trump

A new ad from Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis presidential campaign features a series of Iowa voters explaining why they support him over Donald Trump, urging voters to move on from the former president.

One voter, identified as Kristine, calls DeSantis drama free, an effective and proven leader.

Ross Paustian, a former state representative and Scott County supervisor who has endorsed DeSantis, is shown in the ad saying weve got to move on from Trump.

The ad is part of a more than $2 million buy in the first-in-the-nation caucus state that will run through the Jan. 15 caucus day. A previous ad from the campaign featured clips of Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announcing her endorsement of DeSantis
Gerri Lynn Lester stood outside the River Centers 2nd Street entrance Tuesday morning wrapped in a flag that read: Make America Great Again.

The 56-year-old made the 50-minute drive from Galesburg to downtown Davenport to see Donald J. Trumps town hall meeting, an event moderated by Fox News pundit Sean Hannity.

Like every other person in the line, Lester warded off the cold temperature while waiting to see the former president of the United States, who she hopes will reclaim the position next November.

I was a Democrat until Obamas second term, Lester said as she clutched a cup of coffee in one hand and a stuffed Trumpy Bear in the other. I saw Donald Trump in Mendon (Illinois), and I drove up to Davenport when he was at the Adler.

When Donald Trump was president, that was the best Ive ever done. I live on my own and support myself, and Im hurting right now. Bidenomics is bad for the country.

Trumps Davenport town hall comes ahead of the fourth Republican primary debate, which the former president is not expected to attend. Four candidates qualified for Wednesdays debate in Alabama  Chris Christie, Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis, and Vivek Ramaswamy.

Trump hasnt attended the previous three debates.

Ramaswamys campaign resonated with at least one Trump supporter in Tuesdays line. Tyler Van Akin, a 22-year-old Palmer College of Chiropractic student, said he could see Ramaswamy as Trumps vice president.

Donald Trump puts America first, Van Akin said. And Ramaswamy puts America first and Trump first. And my dark horse for VP is Tucker Carlson. He believes in nationalism, in America first.

Van Akin considered the extreme nationalism of Ramaswamy and Carlson.

They are extreme, thats true, Van Akin said. They are extreme in the sense that they believe in America first above all other things. And you know what, that extreme nationalism makes me even more sure it is time to put America first.

America is the greatest nation on earth. And Donald Trump will make sure we stay that way.

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds endorsed DeSantis in early November, and has campaigned with the Florida governor and appeared in advertising promoting him. Reynolds endorsement broke with tradition. Typically, Iowas governors have stayed neutral in the lead-up to the first-in-the-nation caucuses.

Trump has criticized Reynolds of disloyalty to him, and his campaign released an ad of their own in the past week with clips of Reynolds praising Trump at past rallies and events.

Emilee Schemidt and Cheryl Newport echoed Trumps criticism of Reynolds. Both women are from Bettendorf and serve as caucus captains.

I was very disappointed to hear (Reynolds) endorse DeSantis, said Schemidt, a 40-year-old who said she only came to the Trump camp after the Democrats betrayed Bernie (Sanders).

I have no idea why Reynolds would have done that, Schemidt said. She promised not to do that until after the caucus. I think she was promised something, but that is just my opinion.

Newport is 62 and said she supports Trump because she is a grandmother of five.

I caucused for Trump in 2016, and Im happy to be here, Newport said. I was 100% surprised by what Reynolds did. I was hugely disappointed and immediately sent her office a message. I told her that she is on the wrong side of history.

This is Trumps third visit to Scott County in 2023. He held a rally in Davenport in March and made a stop at a Davenport restaurant following Sept. 20 events in Maquoketa and Dubuque.

The line to see Tuesdays town hall swelled to about 170 by 12:30 p.m.  smaller than the line of supporters Trump attracted when he was in Davenport in March.

Across 2nd Street, posted on the sidewalk outside Major Art & Hobby Center, stood the events lone dissenter.

Rudy Hernandez wore the Guy Fawkes mask made iconic by the film V for Vendetta and worn by members of the Occupy Wall Street movement. He held a sign that read Lock Him Up and said he didnt mind being the only person on 2nd Street openly opposing Trump.

Dissent always starts with one, said the 75-year-old U.S. Air Force veteran who served as a medic during the Vietnam war.

Im here to support all veterans and to fight for the Constitution of the United States. This is the greatest country in the world, and Im not going to sit around while we reelect an autocrat who encouraged people to overthrow our government on Jan. 6.

Our country is greater than Donald Trump.

Sarah Watson contributed to this report.

Election deniers focus recruitment in 'out of the way places' Election deniers are taking to grassroots efforts and leveraging 'road shows' to influence voters and force election result recounts Heading into the 2024 election cycle, officials are bracing for heightened accusations of fraudand the threats that often accompany them
SIOUX CITY  Woodbury County Supervisor Jeremy Taylor has resigned from his position as vice chair of the Board of Supervisors, but remains in his seat representing District 5.

The resignation was approved by the board unanimously on Tuesday. Board members also voted to name Supervisor Mark Nelson as Taylor's replacement as vice chair for the remaining three board meetings of the year until new board leadership is installed.

Board Chairman Matthew Ung previously called Taylor's resignation as vice chair "a ceremonial move" but said "any move is appropriate given the public sentiment."

Taylor spoke on Tuesday, stating he was elected by the public to do a job and he takes that job seriously.

"I work hard to do the absolute best job I can," he said. "[The voters] hold us accountable every four years."

He said he appreciates that the process is "in the hands of the people" and is not decided by the county auditor or a majority of the county board. He also said he appreciates the people who have stood by his family.

The Woodbury County Deputy Sheriffs and Correctional Officers Union, and the Western Iowa Labor Federation joined in asking Taylor to resign from the board amid his wife's voter fraud convictions.

Representatives for the two organizations spoke at Tuesdays supervisors meeting, calling on Taylor to resign from the board.

Board of Supervisors meeting The Woodbury County Board of Supervisors listens to proceedings during a meeting at the Woodbury County Courthouse in Sioux City, Iowa, Tuesda

The statement read by Deputy Sage Lewis on behalf of the union asked Taylor to abstain from voting, discussing and deliberating on any future issues related to the sheriff's office and the law enforcement center due to the "conflict of interest" caused by Kim Taylor's convictions.

The union additionally said they are withdrawing any previous support or endorsement of Jeremy Taylor.

Craig Levine spoke on behalf of the Western Iowa Labor Federation, a coalition of 500 state and local AFL-CIO labor councils, calling for Taylor to resign. He also asked the board to consider the resolution proposed by Auditor Pat Gill last week.

Taylor said last week he plans to complete his current term, which expires in fall 2024.

This will be a distraction, Ung said previously. He is doing the public a disservice by not stepping down.

He repeated the statement on Tuesday, saying this situation is going to continue to cause issues and create a distraction for board members.

A federal jury convicted Taylor's wife, Kim, of 52 counts of voter fraud that government prosecutors say was part of a scheme to stuff the ballot box for her husband, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican nomination for a U.S. House seat in the 2020 primary before winning election to the Board of Supervisors that fall.

Three of the five members of the Board of Supervisors: Ung, Nelson, and Dan Bittinger  contacted by The Journal  called on Taylor to voluntarily step aside. The fifth member, Keith Radig, declined to comment. The Woodbury County Democrats Executive Committee also called on Taylor to step down.

In Iowa, a county elected official can be removed by a petition filed by the county attorney, five registered voters in the district, or the Iowa Attorney General. Gill presented a proposed resolution last week that would have the board ask the Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird to investigate the voter fraud charges.

If warranted, the Woodbury County Board of Supervisors request the Iowa Attorney General file a petition for removal of Jeremy Taylor from the office of Woodbury County Supervisor, according to the resolution.

Ung said the board members have stated their stance on the situation and will not stand in the way of any legal investigations, but added it is unnecessary for the board to endorse any petition or act on their own to file a petition.

The board has already spoken, now is the time for the public to use their own voice and speak on their own behalf, he said. He added he has heard other individuals have spoken to the Iowa Attorney General regarding the situation.

Kim Taylor was convicted on Nov. 21 of 26 counts of providing false information in registering and voting, 23 counts of fraudulent voting and three counts of fraudulent registration.

Throughout the six-day trial, prosecutors said that, in 2020, Taylor, who was born in Vietnam, made contact with a number of Vietnamese voters with limited English language comprehension and filled out and signed voting forms and ballots for them and their English-speaking children in an attempt to stuff the ballot box for her husband.

Prosecutors identified Jeremy Taylor as an unindicted co-conspirator in his wife's case, but he has not been charged. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ron Timmons, who was one of three prosecutors to present the federal government's case against Kim Taylor, declined to comment on any potential future indictments. The case is still under investigation.

Jeremy Taylor, the county supervisor from District 5, previously represented District 2, winning two, four-year terms. But he was forced to give up that seat in January 2020 after a local voter challenged his residency in the district. After weighing testimony and evidence in the case, Woodbury County Auditor Pat Gill revoked Taylor's voter registration, ruling his primary residence was a home outside the district on Christy Road, rather than a home on Grandview Boulevard where Taylor claimed he lived.

After Taylor lost his bid in 2020 for the Republican nomination for the Iowa 4th Congressional District in June primary voting, he was selected in August by a special Republican County panel to be the county party's nominee for supervisor. The Republican unseated Democratic incumbent Marty Pottebaum by around 1,800 votes in the November general election.
Meta has always been associated with misinformation due to its social media platforms being used to spread fake news. The ones who point those out are the misinformation experts such as Joan Donovan. However, the university she works for may have chosen to stay in Meta's good graces instead of supporting her.

Misinformation Expert Says She Was Fired

Misinformation has become more rampant nowadays and can cause all kinds of trouble if left unchecked. Several people have conducted meaningful research to look into the matter and raise awareness, but some may not have the resources to continue their work.

Such a thing happened to Joan Donovan, who was employed at Harvard University. She was known for the papers she published, which were 22,000 pages long, that exposed the practices within Facebook when dealing with misinformation.

According to Donovan, Harvard employees started treating her negatively after that. Her funding was even cut off, which resulted in her not being able to hire assistants. She expressed that her right to free speech has been "abrogated," as reported by The Guardian.

The Facebook papers were internal documents exposed by a former Facebook employee and whistleblower, Frances Haugen. Donovan even published the findings on Harvard's website so that anyone can have access to them.

It was only last year when the university informed her that her project could no longer be continued, but it was only this year when the misinformation expert lost her job. What's intriguing is that the school is set to receive $500 million from Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg's charity.

It was also around the time when the university was receiving the donation that Donovan's funding was cut off. Naturally, Harvard Kennedy School, where she used to work, denied the claims and out a new narrative forward.

The school clarified that she was never fired in the first place and that her leaving had nothing to do with the school's affiliation with Mark Zuckerberg. It was mentioned that Donovan was offered the position as a part-time adjunct lecturer, and she chose to pass on the opportunity.

Donovan stated that there are a "handful of tried and true means to coerce someone or some entity to do something they would not otherwise do, and influence through financial compensation is at or near the top of the list," referring to the $500 million.

Read Also: YouTube Will Accept Takedown Requests for Deepfakes of an 'Identifiable Individual'

Meta's Misinformation Problem

Institute for Data, Democracy and Politics Director at George Washington University, Rebekah Tromble, said that "despite a variety of mitigation efforts, misinformation has found a comfortable home and an engaged audience on Facebook."

A study by a group of researchers showed that between August 2020 and January 2021, news outlets that were unreliable got six times more engagement than credible sources like CNN of the World Health Organization, as reported by The Washington Post.

Facebook spokesperson Jow Osborne responded to the claim, saying that the report mostly looks at how people engage with content, which should not be confused with how many people actually see it on Facebook.

Related: Meta's Updated Political Advertising Policies Now Address AI-Generated Content
SPIRIT LAKE, Iowa  Dickinson County officials reported Wednesday morning that a moose is on the loose.

Just before 10 a.m., the Dickinson County Emergency Management posted on Facebook that "dispatch is aware of the moose roaming around the Spirit Lake area."

Dickinson County Emergency Management then cautioned area residents "If you see the moose, do not approach it. Leave it alone. It will find its way out of town."

In late September, the Sioux County Sheriffs Office reported that a moose been spotted near Rock Valley and was wandering toward Sioux Center.

Previously, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources has said, on its website, that moose will occasionally wander into Iowa from Minnesota. "These are usually young bulls and they rarely stay long," the Iowa DNR notes.

In January 2022, Plymouth County had a visit from a moose who was spotted near County Road K-22.

Moose are a protected species in the state of Iowa.
DES MOINES  Iowa Republicans will gather in just over a month, in schools, churches and community halls, to cast their vote for the presidential nomination and kick off the national primary process.

The high-profile presidential caucuses require meticulous planning from state and local officials to secure locations, organize volunteers and get the word out to voters.

The caucuses are held across more than 1,600 local precincts every two years to organize party business, but attention and attendance surges in years when there is a contested presidential nomination.

We take great pride in the fact that we are well organized and that we do anticipate it to be highly successful with great activity of registered Republicans, said Polk County Republican Party Central Committee member Chris Werman. And it's an important step in democracy.

Iowa Democrats will hold party-organizing precinct caucuses on the same day as Republicans, Jan. 15. But they will express their presidential preference using a new mail-in process and wont announce results until March 5. The change came after national Democrats booted the state from their early nominating spot in an effort to redesign the calendar in a way that better represented the party's demographics.

For the Republican caucuses, voters will gather on Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. at designated precinct locations.

Before the presidential preference poll, representatives from each presidential campaign can make speeches in support of their candidate. Attendees will then cast their vote for president by writing a name on a slip of paper. Those votes are counted and reported to the state party.

Once the voting is over, caucus attendees move on to party business like electing delegates to the county convention and proposing items for the party platform.

Where will Republicans caucus?



Local parties need to find locations to hold their dozens of precinct caucuses. County parties will often host multiple precincts at one location in less populated areas.

Finding locations with enough space is sometimes difficult, said Woodbury County Republican Party Co-Chair Suzan Stewart, because of the uncertainty of turnout.

We had a caucus many years ago when we probably misjudged the space, and we kind of had fistfights in the parking lot, because people couldnt find places to park, she said. Thats my caucus nightmare, is that people will complain bitterly because they didnt have that opportunity."

Kelley Koch, the Dallas County Republican Party chair, said one challenge this year will be making sure Republicans know where to go to caucus. The locations are different from a persons voting precinct, and precincts were redrawn after redistricting in 2021.

So many people are so creature of habit, she said. ... Now its like a Hansel and Gretel, youve got to train people to go to this site.

How many people will participate in the caucuses?



County officials said they expect participation in this years caucus to be on par with 2016, in which a record more than 186,000 Republicans cast their vote for president.

The previous two contested cycles, 2012 and 2008, saw turnout of around 120,000.

Some precincts in Woodbury County that hadnt previously seen much turnout surged in 2016, Stewart said, largely because of the new voters former President Trump brought to the caucuses. Trump did drive some of the high turnout that year, but he took second place after U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas.

Theres so much interest in Trump and Republican candidates since 2016, she said. Things have just changed a lot, in the Trump era, so we could have a very robust turnout.

But the field is also much narrower than it was in 2016: Only a handful of candidates remain in the race, which could discourage turnout for supporters of candidates that have dropped out, Koch said.

I think that could go either way, I really do, she said.

Trump leads the field of GOP candidates as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley are in a tight battle for second place, according to recent Iowa polling. Other candidates include Ohio biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Texas pastor Ryan Binkley.

How many volunteers are needed?



Running the caucuses takes thousands of volunteers who help sign voters in, set up caucus sites, count the votes and guide the process. Party officials are working to recruit volunteers for each county precinct and train them on the process.

Depending on the size of the precinct, county officials said they need between three and 10 volunteers for each precinct. Recruiting volunteers has not been difficult because of the high interest in the presidential election, officials said.

It varies from precinct to precinct, but it's really not that difficult to find people because people do participate in the caucus and are willing to help with whatever the duties are before the evening, Werman said.

Democrats to separate party organizing, presidential preference

Iowa Democrats will hold their party-organizing caucus on Jan. 15 and express their choice for president via a mail-in process starting in January.

The partys new presidential preference cards will include the names of incumbent President Joe Biden and two long-shot challengers, U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota and author Marianne Williamson, along with an option to remain uncommitted.

With the caucus separated from the presidential selection, participation on caucus night is likely to be low, said Scott County Democratic Party Chair Kay Pence. The party will elect delegates for the county convention and work on the party platform.

Were planning it to be the amount of participation like an off-year caucus, she said. So were having them all at one location rather than at all the individual precincts.

Pence said shes excited that the presidential selection will happen by mail this year, making it open to more people who traditionally cant get out to their caucus location.

Democrats can request presidential preference cards by mail or email, and the party will begin mailing them on Jan. 12.

For the first time ever this will be a totally inclusive presidential selection process, she said. Because in the past, if you didn't like driving at night, or you were a snowbird, went south for the winter, or you had a job with second shift or you had small children at home, you couldn't get out. People can participate now.

Photos: Former President Donald Trump speaks at Commit to Caucus event in Waterloo Trump 1 Trump 5 Trump 11 Trump 18 Trump 21 Trump 23
Water utilities across Nebraska would be responsible for replacing tens of thousands of lead pipes over the next decade under a rule proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency last week.

The update to the lead and copper pipe rule pushed by President Joe Biden aims to reduce lead in drinking water and curb public health crises that have stemmed from the aging infrastructure.

"Lead in drinking water is a generational public health issue, and EPA's proposal will accelerate progress toward President' Biden's goal of replacing lead pipe across America once and for all," EPA Administrator Michael Regan said in a news release.

Across the country, that means nearly 9.2 million lead service lines would need to be replaced within 10 years after the rule is finalized at a potential cost of $625 billion.

In Nebraska, that means an estimated 53,230 lead pipes must be replaced, according to the seventh Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment published in April.

The environmental nonprofit Natural Resources Defense Council estimates the number of lead pipes remaining in the Cornhusker State is significantly larger, potentially reaching as many as 97,000.

An inventory on the number of lead pipes in communities across the state is due to the EPA by October 2024.

EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox said the proposed rule was built on lessons learned from several cities across the U.S., including Newark, New Jersey; Benton Harbor, Michigan; and Green Bay, Wisconsin.

"EPA's proposed Lead and Copper rule is grounded in the best available science and successful practices utilized by drinking water systems to protect children and adults from lead in drinking water," Fox said. "Our proposed rule applies the lessons learned to scale these successes to every corner of the country."

Lead pipes were typically used to connect water mains to homes and businesses until 1986 when they were banned by the EPA after it was determined lead can leach into tap water and "severely harm" adults and children.

Utility companies have never been required to remove or replace those pipes with non-lead alternatives, however, even as the EPA has implemented and overhauled rules regulating the quality of drinking water.

The EPA has planned a public information and listening session on the proposed rules, which it plans to finalize in October 2024.

Top Journal Star photos for December 2023
WATERLOO  The granddaughter and grandniece of Waterloos five Sullivan brothers killed during World War II has been named chieftain of her entire familys clan by its leaders in Ireland.

Kelly Sullivan, a third-grade teacher in Cedar Falls who is the official sponsor of the U.S. Navy destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG-68), is the first American and the first woman to receive the honor in the clans 1,000-year history, said clan representative Jim OSullivan of County Cork in Ireland.

This comes from from the people of the area, he said. She has been chosen by the OSullivans people from the counties Cork and Kerry, where her ancestors came from.

Kelly Sullivan received the honor during September in Boston. She was presented with a ceremonial gold chain with the family crest as part of the recognition. It was bestowed by the mayors of Counties Cork and Kerry in Ireland, from which the clan hails.

Kelly Sullivan, the granddaughter of Albert Sullivan, youngest of the five brothers and the only one who married, said she felt her grandfathers and great uncles presence there.

Here I am in this amazing city Ive never had the opportunity to be in, with all these great people that are like an Irish family, she said. The thing I kept thinking about is that recording we have at the museum, the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum in Waterloo, of the boys singing the Irish songs  you know, When Irish Eyes are Smiling  and I cried. I teared up, as the ceremonial chain was placed around her neck.

The Sullivans were really proud of their Irish heritage, Kelly Sullivan said. It was a beautiful, sunny day in Boston. And Im just picturing them looking down from heaven. Its an honor for the whole family in the U.S., she said.

I felt very blessed to go and represent the Sullivan family, she said.

Members of the OSullivan clan visited Boston from Ireland to mark the 300th anniversary of clan members emigration to Massachusetts and the familys on that state and in America.

That history, Jim OSullivan said, dates back to John Sullivan, who served as a brigadier general in Gen. George Washingtons Continental Army in the American Revolution, continuing on through the Sullivan brothers and their namesake vessel today.

The OSullivan clan goes back to the 11th century, OSullivan said. With the advent of British control of their area in about 1602, clan members scattered  some to America, some to Spain.

According to the Irish Times, as British rule of Ireland intensified from the 1600s on, Irish surname prefixes such as O  and Mc were dropped by some people because it was easier to find work if one did not have an Irish-sounding name.

Over the last 50 years, we resurrected the clan chieftain post, OSullivan said, and different individuals have held that post over the years.

We thought it was appropriate that since some of the original (forbears) arrived in the States 300 years ago, that we would present the chain to Kelly, as an American, and also because of her family history involved with the American military and Navy, he said.

The trip included a visit to Gen. John Sullivans home and to the three-masted wooden frigate USS Constitution, Old Ironsides, which fought in the War of 1812. It is the old commissioned ship in the U.S. Navy. Sullivan met the ships commanding officer, Cmdr. Billie June B.J. Farrell, the ships first woman commanding officer in its 224-year history.

Members of the OSullivan clan have maintained ties to Kelly Sullivan and her grandfather and great uncles namesake Navy vessel for a quarter century.

Clan members, including Jim OSullivans father, attended commissioning ceremonies for the USS The Sullivans in April 1997 at Stapleton Pier, Staten Island, in New York harbor in New York City.

The ship also visited County Cork in Ireland in 2003, and members of the OSullivan clan also traveled to Waterloo in 2008 for the dedication of the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum, part of the Grout Museum District.

Jim OSullivan said clan members hope the DDG-68 can once again visit Ireland in the not-too-distant future.

Were hoping, if things work out, that well invite the USS The Sullivans in two years back to Ireland, in this area, but were not guaranteed anything yet, OSullivan said.

The ship has served several overseas deployments in recent years, including one during which it was attached to the British Royal Navy.

The USS The Sullivans, a guided missile destroyer based in Mayport, Fla., is the successor vessel to the USS The Sullivans DD-537, which Kelly Sullivans great grandmother Alleta Sullivan of Waterloo sponsored after her five sons deaths. That ship saw service in World War II and Korea, was decommissioned in 1977 and is now at the Buffalo Naval and Military Park in Buffalo, N.Y.

George, Francis, Joseph, Madison and Albert Sullivan of Waterloo died when their ship, the USS Juneau, was torpedoed and sunk on Nov. 13, 1942 following the naval Battle of Guadalcanal. All but 14 of the Juneaus crew of nearly 700 perished in the actual sinking or at sea on the days the followed. The five brothers deaths are considered the greatest combat-related loss of life by one family at one time in American military history.

The brothers enlisted on the condition they be allowed to serve together, a departure from Navy policy. While attempts were made in Congress as recently as the 1990s to adopt at Sullivan Act preventing any family members from serving together, no such law was ever formally adopted. For example, multiple family members have served together in Iowa National Guard units in recent years on deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.

The brothers uncle, Patrick Henry Sullivan of Harpers Ferry in Allamakee County in Northeast Iowa, served on the USS The Sullivans DD-537 during World War II. The ship earned nine battle stars for its service and was known as The Good Samaritan for many rescues of sailors from ships crippled or sunk in battle or storms. Patrick Henry Sullivan narrowly missed serving on the Juneau with his nephews; it set sail before he could report for duty.

The brothers sister Genevieve joined the Navy WAVES and she and parents Thomas and Alleta participated war bond rallies.

Kellys father, Jim Sullivan, now in his 80s and a toddler when his father and uncles perished, also served in the Navy in the late 1950s and early 60s

Collection: Iowa Army National Guard 1133rd Transportation Company welcome home ceremony 1133rd 1 1133rd 2 1133rd 3 1133rd 4 1133rd 5 1133rd 6 1133rd 7 1133rd 8 1133rd 9 1133rd 10
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My audiobook listening is almost wholly aimed at escapism and diversion, something to help me get through the drudgery of an afternoon beating back the knotweed attempting to take over my backyard. Not that the occasional classic or chewy nonfiction doesnt sneak its way onto my playlist, but the audiobooks I listen to have to be more than just a little bit fun. I hope youll enjoy these as much as I did.

Age of Vice, by Deepti Kapoor, narrated by Vidish Athavale

A juicy combo of mob thriller and Dickensian saga, this novel begins with a Mercedes plowing through a homeless encampment in Delhi, then traces the origins of the cars drivera low-caste rural boy who, through a series of fortunate misfortunes, ends up as a bodyguard to the son of a fabulously wealthy crime family. Age of Vice is a bit too long in the way some Victorian novels are, a flaw in terms of art, but a pleasure for anyone who longs to immerse themself in an expansive yarn. Athavale handles the huge cast of characters with a low-key dexterity that delivers a seamless experience.

Collected Fictions, by Jorge Luis Borges, translated by Andrew Hurley, narrated by Castulo Guerra

Penguin Random House Audio released new recordings of most of Borges work this year, much of it narrated by Castulo Guerra. Theres an earlier, abridged version of Collected Fictions performed by George Guidall, and the comparison is fascinating. Guidalls Borges is crisper and emphasizes the masters ironic side. Guerras soft, almost slushy voice features better Spanish pronunciations and plays up Borges melancholy romanticism. Both are well worth a listen, and having so much of Borges work available on audio is one of the unanticipated treasures 2023 brought.

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Crook Manifesto, by Colson Whitehead, narrated by Dion Graham

With two Pulitzers under his belt, Whitehead has embarked on a quixotic quest to become a crackling genre novelist a la Richard Stark, a pseudonym of Donald Westlake. Crook Manifesto is the second book to feature the central character of Ray Carney, who owns a furniture store in Harlem during the 1970s and who, apart from occasionally acting as a fence for stolen goods, triesand failsto stay out of trouble. Like all great crime fiction, Crook Manifesto offers up a rich portrait of a time and place and the rules that govern both, often fully visible only to the people who break them. The legendary narrator Dion Graham does as stellar a job with this book as he did with its prequel, 2021s Harlem Shuffle.

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Dykes to Watch Out For, by Alison Bechdel, performed by a full cast

One caveat: This audio adaptation of Bechdels beloved comic strip is marred by annoyingly arch voice-over narration by Jane Lynch. Ignore that, and savor the excellent performances of such iconic characters as the neurotically overthinking Mo (Carrie Brownstein, perfect) and the womanizing swashbuckler Lois (Roberta Colindrez, swoon-worthy). A fond, teasing portrait of an abiding subculture, the strip, which began in 1983, still feels surprisingly relevant, from Mos rants about the catastrophic state of the world to the meals replete with root vegetables and legumes to the characters hilariously Byzantine love lives.

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Emily Wildes Encyclopaedia of Faeries, by Heather Fawcett, narrated by Ell Potter and Michael Dodds

This charming fantasy adventure is presented as the field notes of an early 20th-century Cambridge scholar of dryadologythe study of the Folk. The introverted Emily plans to write an ambitiously comprehensive reference work on the subject. Her research expedition to a hamlet in Norway is complicated by the arrival of an intrusive colleague whom Emily suspects of being not quite human and a misguided attempt at do-gooding that leaves her unwillingly betrothed to the king of winter. Fawcetts richly visual imagination and a pleasant love story thats blessedly light on shopworn romance tropes sweeten the pot. Potter glides smoothly from Emilys prim, plummy Oxbridge accent to the Scandinavian villagers she befriends to the appropriately eerie Folk.

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A Haunting on the Hill, by Elizabeth Hand, narrated by Carol Monda

Hands novel, authorized by Shirley Jacksons estate, takes place in the disturbing mansion where The Haunting of Hill House is set. While Jacksons novel features a collection of misfits researching paranormal phenomena and longing for community, Hands are a pack of squabbling artists assembled to work on a play about a woman executed for witchcraft. Each struggles to assert their own creative vision on the project while the house itself craftily drives wedges between them. Monda, who also narrates Hands terrific Cass Neary crime novels, brings the husky magnificence of her voice to bear on the foolish mortals and the malevolent mansion to equally wondrous effect.

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The January 6th Report, multiple narrators

Who wants to listen to a 23-hour recording of the findings of a congressional committee? Not, I thought, meespecially after Id already watched the televised hearings several times and written about them. Yet, an hour into this production, I was hooked all over again by the astounding and infuriating spectacle of that combination of reality TV, full-on constitutional crisis, and overall shit show that was the final months of the Trump presidency. The introduction, written and read by New Yorker editor David Remnick, provides a lucid overview, while the bulk of the findings are narrated by an array of top-notch professionals.

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Lone Women, by Victor LaValle, narrated by Joniece Abbott-Pratt

A Western that jettisons the standard motifs of the genre, this horror novel follows the fortunes of Adelaide Henry, who in 1915 burns down her familys farmhouse in California and heads for Montana, where the federal government is handing out 320-acre homesteads. There, Adelaide, who is Black, finds more acceptance than she anticipates in the tiny community forming amidst the vast emptiness of the plains, including other unmarried women like herself. But Adelaide comes bearing a deadly secret that cant be kept hidden forever. Abbott-Pratts quietly powerful narration summons the isolation that Adelaide both seeks and longs to escape in Montanas badlands.

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The Secret Hours, by Mick Herron, narrated by Gerard Doyle

Gerard Doyle has narrated all of Mick Herrons Slough House spy novels, the basis for the Apple TV+ series Slow Horses. This stand-alone book touches on the characters from the main series only occasionally, but it has the same amused interest in government and intelligence careers gone wrong and in strivers on the margins trying to work their way up while the people in charge concoct elaborate and usually doomed schemes to thwart their rivals. This story involves an explosive file that somehow gets passed to a sidelined civil servant in a supermarket. Doyles delicate, world-weary voice is the perfect vehicle for Herrons espionage fiction, which manages to be witty and twisty even as it second-guesses the cleverness and heroism of spies themselves.

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To Anyone Who Ever Asks: The Life, Music, and Mystery of Connie Converse, by Howard Fishman, narrated by the author

Converse was a strikingly original singer-songwriter who hung around the New York City folk music scene in the heyday of the 1950s before, discouraged by her inability to break through, she moved to Michigan. In 1974, after working on a novel and as a political activist, she packed up her car and disappeared, never to be heard from again. This mystery, and the poignancy of her music, caused a sort of cult fandom to grow up around Converse. Fishman, who narrates this audiobook, was riveted from the moment he heard one of her songs at a party. A musician himself, he became obsessed with Converse, and this fascinating book is the story of his quest to understand her enigmatic life and outsider art. He is the only choice to narrate this story, and the audiobook is inestimably deepened by the inclusion of clips from Converses haunting recordings.
No one puts much stock in the so-called Slow Horses, which is perhaps why theyre always exceeding expectations. A group of disgraced intelligence agents, banished from proper espionage and field work in Regents Park and downgraded to menial labor (see: slow horses) in a ramshackle building known as Slough House, has met every attempt to prove themselves capable with failure. Unless, of course, in classic television fashion, all goes well this one time.

Based on the Slough House novels by Mick Herron, Apple TV+s spy thriller returned for its third season last week. This run of episodes, in which the Slow Horses team tries to relocate one of their ownwho has been kidnapped by an ex-MI5 agent turned private military contractor and conspiracy theorist gone rogueis its best to date. Part Killing Eve, part John le Carre lite, Slow Horses continues to stand head and shoulders above its streaming peers when it comes to sharp and truly bingeable TV.

The ragtag group of failed intelligence agents falls under the exhausted eye of one Jackson Lambplayed by an excellent, funny Gary Oldmana former Cold War agent too over it and traumatized from his years in the service to be of much use to anyone who needs something from him. Oldmans Lamb is a boorish asshole: unkempt, gassy, rude. But, like any burned-out boss with a heart of gold, he cares deeply about one thing and one thing only: getting lunch (and the well-being of his agents). Opposite Oldman is up-and-comer (if not already up-and-arrived) Jack Lowden, known to true cinephiles as Siegfried Sassoon in Terence Davies Benediction, though he also made appearances in Dunkirk and Mary Queen of Scots. Lowden plays River Cartwright, a nepotism hire whose botching of a training exercise has made him the enemy of a number of his posh co-workers. In many ways, Rivera brash but begrudgingly noble upstartfeels like a course correction for decades of James Bonds unflappable success; that Lowden has been rumored to be one of a handful of handsome youngish actors in the running to play the next Bond (Lowden himself denied it earlier this year, but still) only deepens the irony of his playing a different kind of spy altogether. Rounding out the cast is an icy Kristin Scott Thomas as Diana Taverner, the deputy director of MI5 who acts with much impunity and scant transparency.

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There are a number of spy thrillers and espionage thrillers that saturate the streaming landscape, but Slow Horses sets itself apart in its razor-edged writing and keen politics, both of which feel timeless. The series shares disdain for everyone and everything: The cops are bad, the government is bad, journalists are bad. The British domestic intelligence agency MI5, though ostensibly the employer for these characters, is also bad, eager to sell out its own agents to turn a quick buck. This particular season, in fact, sets the intelligence community against itself, with the ever-excellent Sophie Okonedo back as Ingrid Tearney, the director of MI5 and Taverners boss, against whom her underling might be making a serious play. No one is trustworthy or particularly honorable here. That cynicism might feel tired elsewhere, but in writer and showrunner Will Smiths (not that Will Smith) hands, the jokes are wry and sharp. In the first season, the groups resident techie Roddy Ho (Christopher Chung) repeatedly refers to other branches of law enforcement as the pigs, only to be reminded that they too are all pigs. It is easy to compare Slow Horses to le Carreas I just didbut it feels closer in tone to the work of Armando Iannucci, with whom Smith wrote on both The Thick of It and Veep. At their keenest, both shows were stark reminders that governmentsboth British and Americando not serve anyone but themselves. As every Slow Horses season comes to a close with another disillusioned reminder of the grimy indifference of power structures, its easy to wonder what its all for.

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Related From Slate Read the Hilarious, Unique Spy Novels Behind the New Gary Oldman TV Series Read More

The comedy underpinnings of the show grant it a rich textural irony, as well: Here weve gathered some of the U.K.s most promising rising talent, as well as established and esteemed acting legends (and one Oscar winner), and more often than not, youre tuning in to watch them fumble the bag. They will show up too late; they will target the wrong guy. Their hearts are in the right places, but what can be said about the rest of their bodies? You hope, and perhaps deep down even know, that every season will come to its version of a happy ending, but how much will these characters have to goof up before it gets to that place? The titular Slow Horses are often so bad at what they do that their successes, even minor, are triumphant. You feel their joy, even when they dont see what might be coming around the corner.

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That irony doesnt mean, however, that the stakes dont feel legitimate in the shows reality. Slow Horses benefits from an almost ripped-from-the-headlines approach to its central mysteries. These instigating events, ranging from sleeper agents to rogue nationalists to conspiracy theories, are convincing enough to feel as though the world they operate in is our own. The shows keen cinematic direction, especially the most recent seasons work by Saul Metzstein, allows it to look expensive without being decadent, intense without burning itself out. Slow Horses feels, as disappointingly few shows do nowadays, like real televisionno small feat.

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There are series regulars (the aforementioned Christopher Chung, as well as an excellent Rosalind Eleazar) and occasional guests (Jonathan Pryce pops up now and again as Cartwrights retired spy grandfather, and this seasons cold open revolves around a brief appearance by Katherine Waterston), but life is not precious in the show. Each season features at least one major death or disappearance from which all of the shows characters reel. The stakes are practical, heightened. Time matters, which explains why the pacing feels so essential to Slow Horses success. Though the third season premiered on Nov. 29, newcomers will find that they dont have all that much to catch up on. The show benefits from the British television programming model that discourages both overlong seasons and overlong episodes: Seasons 1 and 2 are six episodes each, with most episodes hovering around 45 minutes. That each season also takes place over a series of days rather than weeks or months grants Slow Horses an urgency that feels rarewatching it is the opposite of a slog.

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There is also, importantly, just a lot of pleasure to this show. Like a number of great television programs before it, Slow Horses is a series about co-workers who become friends, kind ofso long as their job does not get them killed. That the most recent season also calls upon the team to rescue one of their own only emphasizes the begrudging love they have for each other, loath as they might be to admit it otherwise. Whenever the show catches its breath enough to treat its characters to some mercy and Jackson Lamb to a big bowl of noodles, the reprieve feels truly earned. Its been a long day for these guys. They need a minute, or three, before the next long day begins.
On Monday, the Department of Justice announced the arrest of a longtime United States diplomat and national security figure named Victor Manuel Rocha on charges that he has acted for decades as an agent of a foreign government, namely Cubas. Since 1981, a criminal complaint against Rocha says, he worked for the State Department, National Security Council, and U.S. militaryeven serving from 1999 until 2002 as the American ambassador to Boliviawhile surreptitiously working to advance the interests of Fidel Castros communist Cuban regime.

A separate grand jury indictment filed Tuesday expanded on the accusation, charging Rocha with seeking sensitive and classified U.S. material so that he could provide such information to agents or representatives of the Republic of Cuba.

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Neither the complaint nor the indictment against Rocha describes any alleged instances in which Rocha passed on classified information. (A former CIA officer interviewed by NPR said that the investigation into when he may have done so, now that Rocha has been identified as an alleged mole, may take multiple years.) The documents do, however, recount meetings that are said to have taken place in 2022 and 2023 between Rocha and an undercover FBI agent who presented himself as Rochas new contact from the Cuban government. (Fidel Castro died in 2016; the country is currently led by Miguel Diaz-Canel.)

Related From Slate 100,000 Immigrant Kids Are in Limbo Because of a Technicality Read More

In those meetings, by prosecutors account, Rocha said a lot of incriminating stuff, including:

 Stating his confidence that theyi.e., U.S. authoritieswouldnt know the meeting was taking place (whoops!) because hed traveled to it via a circuitous route like he had been told to do during his training.

 Instructing the undercover agent not to use the words C or H (i.e., Cuba or Havana) in their conversations and to instead use euphemistic terms such as the island.

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 Attesting that, for security reasons, he never wrote Cuba-related information down.

 Stating that the Direccion, i.e., the Cuban directorate of intelligence, had asked him to create the appearance of living a normal life as part of his legend. (He also asked the undercover agent to give the Direccion his warmest regards and referred to Castro as the comandante.)

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 Expressing pride about having strengthened the Revolution, work that he described as being of enormous importance to Cuba and a grand slam for the countrys interests.

 Referring to the United States as the enemy. (LOL.)

Your author is not an expert in the field of espionage but suspects that telling someone youve just met, at length, about your work as a double agent is not a best practice. (It also raises the question of how it took so long for the U.S. counterintelligence apparatus to learn about his alleged behavior.) Rocha, who is 73, appeared at a court hearing on Monday but has not commented on the charges.
The best way to protect your small business from data loss is to always back-up your data. However, sometimes, data loss just sneaks right on you. It could be as a result of incompatible software, data corruption, hacking, accidental deletion or even a simple power surge or outage. Whatever the case, there are some free data recovery tools that could help you get back your lost data.

Benefits of Free Data Recovery Tools for Small Businesses

Free data recovery solutions offer a range of benefits for small businesses, which often operate with limited resources and tight budgets. These benefits include:

Cost Efficiency: The most apparent benefit is the cost savings. Free data recovery tools eliminate the need for expensive software purchases or professional recovery services, which can be a significant financial burden for small businesses. Ease of Use: Many free data recovery tools are designed with user-friendly interfaces, making them accessible even to individuals with limited technical expertise. This means small businesses can perform data recovery in-house without the need for specialized IT staff. Immediate Availability: In the event of data loss, free recovery tools can be quickly downloaded and used immediately. This reduces downtime and allows businesses to swiftly address data loss incidents. Versatility: These tools often support a variety of file types and storage devices, making them versatile for different data recovery needs, from hard drives to USB flash drives and memory cards. Regular Updates: Free software often comes with regular updates, providing improvements and new features over time, which can enhance the data recovery process.

However, its important to note that while free data recovery solutions offer these benefits, they may not always provide the same level of sophistication or customer support as paid options. Small businesses should assess their specific needs and the criticality of their data before relying solely on free solutions.

Choosing the Best Free Data Recovery Tools for Small Businesses: Our Methodology

At Small Business Trends, we understand the critical importance of data recovery solutions for small businesses. Data loss can be a significant setback, impacting operations, customer trust, and overall business continuity. When selecting the best free data recovery solutions, we consider several key criteria. Heres how we evaluate these solutions using a scale of one to ten, with ten being reserved for the most important factors:

Effectiveness in Data Recovery (Scale: 10/10) Ability to recover a wide range of file types.

Success rate in recovering data from different scenarios (accidental deletion, formatting, corruption, etc.). Ease of Use (Scale: 8/10) User-friendly interface for seamless navigation.

Minimal technical knowledge required for operation. Compatibility (Scale: 9/10) Support for various operating systems and file systems.

Compatibility with different types of storage devices. Speed of Recovery (Scale: 7/10) Time efficiency in scanning and recovering data. Security and Privacy (Scale: 10/10) Ensuring that the recovery process is secure and maintains data privacy.

No risk of further data damage or loss during recovery. Customer Support and Resources (Scale: 6/10) Availability of support for troubleshooting.

Access to helpful resources like guides or FAQs. Software Updates and Maintenance (Scale: 7/10) Frequency and quality of updates for improved functionality and bug fixes. Limitations of the Free Version (Scale: 8/10) Understanding the constraints of the free version, like data recovery limits or lack of advanced features.

By carefully evaluating these criteria, we aim to provide small business owners and entrepreneurs with reliable and effective data recovery solutions that cater to their unique needs.

Small Business Deals

Free Data Recovery Tools

Recuva

This is an incredibly powerful tool for recovering data. It is available in both free and paid editions, and it can recover files from external drives (USB drives, etc.), hard drives, BD/DVD/CD discs, memory cards. Use Recuva to recover data from Windows 10, 8.1, 7, Vista and XP. Including both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.

Pandora Recovery

Pandora Recovery has a paid edition that you can put on a USB disk to recover an operating system drive and a free version that you can use to recover data from secondary drives.

Stellar Phoenix Windows Data Recovery Software

While they also have paid options, Stellar Phoenix Windows Data Recovery solution offers a wide range of features, including the ability to recover lost or deleted files emptied from Recycle bin, recover data from lost or deleted partition, recover deleted emails, photos, audio and videos among many other features.

PC INSPECTOR

Expect thorough inspection and file recovery from this Windows compatible tool. PC INSPECTOR recognizes all types of data and you can use it to recover deletions and even total volume loss.

FreeUndelete

As the name suggests, FreeUndelete is a free tool that you can use to recover deleted files. This is a simple, efficient tool. Pressed SHIFT-DEL or emptied the Recycle Bin? No problem. This tool will recover your files.

ADRC Data Recovery Software Tools

The ADRC Data Recovery Software Tools contains a collection of data recovery tools that support a wide variety of file systems and drives. The tool zooms in to complete critical recovery functions like disk image backup, undeleting files, disk cloning, editing and restoring boot parameters and restoring backup image, among other roles.

NTFS Data Recovery Toolkit

The NTFS Data Recovery Toolkit is built specifically for NTFS volumes. This toolkit comes loaded with data recovery tools, partition manager and disk editor. All tools contain instructions on how to use them.

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard

This is another great recovery tool that features both free and paid versions. Use EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard to undelete files from optical drives, memory cards, hard drives, and pretty much anything else that Windows recognizes as a storage device.

Wise Data Recovery

The Wise Data Recovery Tool allows you to get back deleted documents, videos, photos and emails from your removable or local drives for free.

CD Recovery Toolbox

CD Recovery Toolbox is a free tool that is designed to recover files from damaged or corrupted optical drive discs  CD, Blu-Ray, HD DVD, DVD, etc. This tool should help you recover files from discs that have surface spotting, chipped or scratched.

UndeleteMyFiles Pro

UndeleteMyFiles Pro is another amazing free tool that allows you to recover accidentally deleted files from SD cards, hard disks, USB flash drives and other storage media.

MiniTool Power Data Recovery

The MiniTool Power Data Recovery tool is a data recovery tool thats available in both free and paid editions. The Free edition will help you to recover lost, deleted, formatted and corrupt files with ease.

TOKIWA DataRecovery

TOKIWA DataRecovery is an effective, standalone data recovery program. It is easy to use, featuring a single program window where you can sort and scan files and undelete them. This tool recovers files from memory cards, USB drives, hard drives, and other external drives.

Bplan Data Recovery

This free data recovery tool can help you to recover lost data even after you have formatted your Laptop or desktop computer hard drive. Bplan unfortunately only works with Windows 7, 8 and XP.

TestDisk

TestDisk is designed to repair drives that are no longer bootable and recover lost partitions. This tool is able to repair most file systems (FAT, NTFS, EXT). It runs under most versions of Linux, BSD, Windows and Mac operating systems.

Active UNERASER

Active UNERASER is a freeware software that you can use to recover deleted files as well as damaged folders located on Unix UFS/XFS, Apple HFS+, Linux Ext2/Ext3/Ext4/BtrFS, NTFS, FAT and exFAT fikle systems.

SoftPerfect File Recovery

SoftPerfect File Recovery is a free tool that you can use to rescue and restore data that was accidentally deleted from USB flash disks, floppy disks, SD cards, hard disks and other storage media.

Undelete 360

This is one of the best programs to use when recovering accidentally deleted files. Undelete 360 is built on a fast and efficient algorithm that will allow you to browse, search, and recover files.

PhotoRec

This is one of the best data recovery tools. This free to use software is widely applauded for its powerful recovery abilities. Use PhotoRec to recover data like videos, pictures and documents from a wide range of devices ranging from digital cameras to hard disks.

Restoration

This is an easy to use and straight forward tool for undeleting files that were directly deleted from Windows or removed from the recycle bin. Restoration does not require installation and works with NTFS and FAT as well as digital cameras cards.
A Tesla whistleblower shared with BBC that the company's self-driving vehicles are not ready and safe enough to be used on public roads.

Read Also: Tesla Begins Distributing Cybertrucks at Whopping $61K

Former Tesla Employee Claims Company Ignores Complaints

Former Tesla employee Lukasz Krupski leaked thousands of accident reports and other documents supporting the complaints about the company's self-driving software. Krupski also detailed that his efforts to voice out the concerts were ignored by the company.

During his interview with BBC, he shared his lack of confidence in the preparation of the hardware and the software of the vehicles."It affects all of us because we are essentially experiments in public roads. So even if you don't have a Tesla, your children still walk in the footpath," he added.

He also found evidence in the company data that showed how some safe operation processes had not been followed. Meanwhile, other Tesla employees also told him about the phantom breaking or the random braking responses to non-existent obstacles.

Tesla Takes Legal Action vs. Krupski

Krupski leaked accident reports and internal Tesla communication documents along with the list of employees and some personal information. He was fired last year and was also accused of taking pictures at Tesla, which was considered a company violation, as per his bosses.

The New York Times reported that Tesla is accusing Krupski of misappropriating company information and is demanding damages from him. Tesla also got an injunction from a Norwegian court that prohibited Krupski from sharing more information about the company. The court also seized his laptop and sent it to Tesla.

As of writing, Krupski cannot pursue a case against Tesla after using all of his savings to pay for a lawyer. Meanwhile, Tesla CEO Elon Musk remains firm that his company has the "best real-world AI."

Related Article: Cybertruck Windows Claimed to Be Bulletproof Despite Failed Demonstration
We reflect on the recent Charity Christmas Bazaar and anticipate the IWCB Charity Kiosk at Bratislava Christmas Market.

The Christmas Bazaar (Source: Courtesy of the Slovak Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs)

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In the heart of the city, the International Women's Club of Bratislava (IWCB) serves as a vibrant hub connecting diverse cultures. In an exclusive interview with Viera Buchtova, the current president of IWCB, we gained insights into the club's essence and impactful initiatives.

As we recently approached the eagerly awaited Christmas season, the IWCB geared up for its signature event, the Charity Christmas Bazaar on November 12. This festive occasion showcased an array of global treasures and delectable treats, fostering international camaraderie, and supporting the ones in need.

I asked Ms. Viera Buchtova, IWCB president, to share her Bazaar insights and highlight other exciting IWCB ventures.

How would you summarize the Charity Bazaar event?

Im thrilled that after a three-year hiatus due to Covid and its aftermath, we were able to have such a successful event surpassing our charitable target. The generated funds will help many non-profit organizations in Slovakia and the underprivileged members of our society.

What are the other initiatives you and the club are working on?

The most current one is the IWCB Charity Kiosks at Bratislava Christmas Market on Hlavne namestie, running from December 7 to 12. Well be selling a variety of donated items and spreading holiday cheer. All proceeds will support numerous vital non-profits in Slovakia.

We are also organizing a clothing drive and the Charity Christmas Tree campaign. Id like to emphasize that we dont try to step in the governments place, we just want to improve human lives where we can.

Discover the captivating world of IWCB, where cultural exchange seamlessly blends with heartfelt charitable endeavors. Join us in celebrating the spirit of togetherness and giving this holiday season. Visit the IWCB Charity Kiosk to be part of something truly special.

Eva Staronova is an entrepreneur in natural product industry with her company based in Los Angeles, CA. She is also a board member and Christmas Bazaar coordinator of the International Women's Club of Bratislava.
The male-dominated world of Slovak millionaires, Christmas tram is back, and no change to energy prices next year.

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Good evening. Here is the Wednesday, December 6 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes.

New law to deny police whistleblower protection

Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer). (Source: TASR)

On Wednesday, the government approved an amendment to the Whistleblower Protection Act which will stop such protection being provided to members of the Police Corps.

Moreover, those police officers who have already been given the status will lose it as soon as the amendment enters into force.

The move allows Robert Fico's cabinet to complete a purge of National Crime Agency (NAKA) investigators centred around investigator Jan Curilla who uncovered thriving organised crime under previous Smer-led governments.

They received their protected status as whistleblowers in the middle of October when it became clear which parties would form the current government. The status was approved by the Special Prosecutors Office and expires three years after a prosecution is halted.

Fico has long questioned the work done by police investigators.

Shortly after the government formed, Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok suspended 7 investigators centred around Curilla. However, according to recent court rulings, four have been allowed to return to work.

The cabinet wants parliament to deal with the motion on the amendment in fast-track proceedings. The amendment also allows an employer of a whistleblower to appeal against the status, and reduces the scope of its protection by directly linking it with the employer's activity.

Lawyer Peter Kubina, who represents the group of prosecuted investigators, says the amendment is anti-constitutional.

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FEATURE STORY FOR WEDNESDAY

An extended childhood - thanks to dolls

Svetlana Martynovskaya. (Source: Archive of S. M.)

Ukrainian Svetlana Martynovskaya rediscovered the craft of sewing dolls during her pregnancy 13 years ago. Since then, she has been improving her techniques.

Martynovskaya has made around 400 rag dolls to date. Each is different, the dollmaker says. What she cant quantify is how much time she spent on those 400 dolls, as she says she loses herself in space and time when sewing them.

EVENT FOR THE COMING DAYS

Italian cinema proudly presents

The Kino Mladost cinema in Bratislava is one of the places to screen movies from the Be2Can festival. (Source: SME - Marko Erd)

Starting on Wednesday, the Kino Mladost cinema is hosting the 21st edition of the MittelCinemaFest 2023, a film festival dedicated to the best movies from Italian cinema in any given year. Between December 6-9, two movies will screen in the cinema. Get tickets here.

IN OTHER NEWS

The provision of contributions for accommodating Ukrainian refugees will be extended until the end of March 2024. However, the contribution will be lowered to 12 per night for each person over the age of 15 and to 6 for each child up to 15. The regulation will take effect as of January 1, 2024. (TASR)

However, the contribution will be lowered to 12 per night for each person over the age of 15 and to 6 for each child up to 15. The regulation will take effect as of January 1, 2024. (TASR) Energy prices for households and selected vulnerable customers will not change next year . Distribution fees will be capped at the level of 2023 for the business sector as well. (TASR)

. Distribution fees will be capped at the level of 2023 for the business sector as well. (TASR) Checks on Slovakia's border with Hungary will be extended until January 22, 2024.

NGOs plan to reach out to the European Commission over steps taken by the government of Robert Fico (Smer). In an open letter, Via Iuris, Transparency International Slovensko, Zastavme Korupciu (an anti-corruption organisation) and INEKO voice their concerns that the stability of democracy and the rule of law in Slovakia have been put in jeopardy. (TASR)

WEATHER FOR THURSDAY

Overcast, with snow in many places. In southern parts of the country, occasional rain and snow expected. Daily temperatures will rise to between -2 C and 3 C. Level 1 snowdrift, snowfall and ground ice warnings have been issued for many districts, see map here. (SHMU)

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P.S. If you have suggestions on how our news overview can be improved, you can reach us at editorial@spectator.sk.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231205/chinas-credit-outlook-negative-as-worlds-second-largest-economy-slows-moody-says-1115415101.html

Chinas Credit Outlook Negative as Worlds Second-Largest Economy Slows, Moody Says

Chinas Credit Outlook Negative as Worlds Second-Largest Economy Slows, Moody Says

Credit rating agency Moodys downgraded its outlook for the Chinese governments credit on Tuesday, the first time it was rated as negative since 2017.

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economic growth

economic outlook

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Moody's said its decision "reflects rising evidence that financial support will be provided by the government and wider public sector to financially stressed regional and local governments and state-owned enterprises."The Chinese economy has been steadily slowing since before 2020, when it was subjected to the convulsions of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns just as Chinese regulators cracked down on excessive real estate borrowing in response to a series of large-scale debt defaults by property developers. The US-directed trade war with China, which has targeted broad swaths of its economy including the tech field and exports from Xinjiang, has also left its mark.The Chinese Ministry of Finance said it was disappointed with Moodys decision, noting the countrys economy has already recovered from its nadir.Moodys said it expects Chinas economy to grow at 4% each in 2024 and 2025, then decline slightly to 3.8% until 2030, when it expects the Chinese economy to slow to 3.5% growth. The agency said weaker demographics caused by an aging population will require substantial and coordinated reforms to help the country maintain its consumer spending and higher value-added manufacturing.The agencys numbers are considerably below other estimates for Chinese growth in the coming years. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) projected last month for Chinas gross domestic product to grow by 4.7% next year and 4.2% in 2025 on the back of ongoing stresses in the real estate sector and continued high household saving rates. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) said recently it expects Chinas GDP to grow by 4.6% in 2024 and 4.2% in 2025. Goldman Sachs said on Tuesday it expects Chinas GDP to grow by 5% next year."We need to adopt expansionary fiscal and monetary policy to stimulate aggregate demand," one Chinese government economist told US media. "Corporate investment demand will not be strong as the confidence of companies has not recovered, so we need to expand infrastructure investment.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231205/us-sommerce-shief-hypes-china-threat-illusion-assaulting-chip-firms-counterproductive-1115398907.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231106/yellen-us-can-compete--work-with-china-ahead-of-meeting-with-beijings-economic-chief-1114771160.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/china-says-us-needs-to-stop-interfering-in-asian-states-internal-affairs---reports-1115423186.html

China Says US Needs to Stop Interfering in Asian State's Internal Affairs - Reports

China Says US Needs to Stop Interfering in Asian State's Internal Affairs - Reports

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that Washington needs to stop interfering in the internal affairs of the Asian country, the state-run television reported on Wednesday.

2023-12-06T09:43+0000

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The diplomats also discussed during a phone conversation the situation in the Middle East, with Wang pointing a ceasefire as the main priority, the media added. Earlier in the day, the US Department of State said that Blinken held a phone conversation with his Chinese counterpart.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231205/us-sommerce-shief-hypes-china-threat-illusion-assaulting-chip-firms-counterproductive-1115398907.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/ex-airline-pilot-indicted-on-84-counts-for-trying-to-cut-planes-engine-mid-flight-1115425408.html

Ex-Airline Pilot Indicted on 84 Counts For Trying to Cut Plane's Engine Mid-Flight

Ex-Airline Pilot Indicted on 84 Counts For Trying to Cut Plane's Engine Mid-Flight

A pilot's plunge into despair culminated in a perilous gamble to turn off the aircraft's engines mid-flight. This harrowing cockpit confrontation has cast a dark shadow over flight safety and the mental health oversight of pilots.

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In a terrifying episode of shocking high-altitude horror, Captain Joseph David Emerson, an ex-Alaska Airlines off-duty pilot, is charged with 84 counts of endangerment for an incident involving a Horizon Air flight.Emerson is accused of trying to shut down the plane's engines during an Oct. 22, 2023 flight from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco, an act he allegedly attempted while sitting in the cockpits jump seat. Although he previously faced attempted murder charges, these have been dropped. His arraignment is due soon to respond to these charges.The situation began when Emerson attempted to interfere with the plane's engines as the aircraft was airborne. This led to a confrontation in the cockpit, after which the flight crew restrained him. The plane, carrying 83 passengers, was safely diverted to Portland.Following his arrest, Emerson informed the Port of Portland police that he had been battling depression and coping with the death of a friend. Additionally, he disclosed that he had taken psychedelic mushrooms roughly 48 hours before he risked interfering with the aircraft's engines. According to court documents seen by the press, the ex-pilot stated that he had not slept for over 40 hours by the time the incident occurred.Emerson's defense team argues that he did not intend to harm anyone but wanted to return to his family. Simply put: Captain Emerson thought he was in a dream, his lawyers told reporters. Meanwhile, the incident has raised concerns about cockpit security and the mental health of pilots and crew members. Emerson is currently being held in detention in Oregon.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231024/us-pilot-took-psychedelic-mushrooms-before-trying-to-cut-engines-mid-flight-docs-reveal-1114460092.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/expert-washington-is-zionist-controlled-territory-1115417414.html

'What Colonialist Powers Do': Israel Eying Mid East 'Hegemony' Post-Gaza Conflict

'What Colonialist Powers Do': Israel Eying Mid East 'Hegemony' Post-Gaza Conflict

Speaking to Sputnik's Political Misfits, author, activist and scientist Mazin Qumsiyeh argued that Israeli zionists control the US government and they want to dominate the Middle East.

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Asked what comes next in the conflict, Qumsiyeh said that soon disease, malnutrition and a lack of water and medicine will lead to a civilian death toll that will "quickly overtake the number of civilians killed by bombings."He then moved onto discussing what he believes to be Israel's plans after Gaza.Israel started heavily bombing Gaza days after a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7, which killed around 1,200 Israelis according to official numbers. It has since launched a ground campaign in Gaza, promising to eliminate Hamas. More than 16,200 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since October 7, including over 7,000 children.Multiple human rights organizations have described Israels actions as genocidal. Israel has targeted UN schools, refugee camps and hospitals, claiming that Hamas militants are hiding in those areas or using them as a base of operation.The State Department now basically works 95% of its time for Israel, Qumsiyeh said, pointing to a recent resignation by State Department official Josh Paul, who said in media interviews that there has been no space allowed for debate on the transfer of arms to Israel.Political Misfits co-host John Kiriakou asked Qumsiyeh if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could lose his position and if it would matter if he did.They need to be stopped as a collective, not as Netanyahu, lets not make it personal about Netanyahu, he added.Israel has maintained that it is doing all that it can to protect civilians in Gaza while attempting to eliminate Hamas. It has repeatedly dismissed claims that has committed war crimes in Gaza.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231205/environmentalists-gazas-water-farmland-will-be-unusable-if-idf-floods-tunnels-with-seawater-1115413868.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/former-us-house-speaker-kevin-mccarthy-leaving-congress-at-end-of-year-1115436579.html

Former US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy Leaving Congress at End of Year

Former US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy Leaving Congress at End of Year

Former US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said on Wednesday that he intends to leave his seat in the US Congress at the end of the year but will continue to support the Republican Partys electoral efforts.

2023-12-06T18:50+0000

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Former US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced that he would continue to recruit Republican candidates throughout the country and share his experience with the next generation of political leaders.It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways. I know my work is only getting started. Earlier this year, the US House of Representatives ousted McCarthy from the position, after the congressman negotiated a temporary government funding deal with the Democrats.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231114/countdown-to-shutdown-new-speaker-haunted-by-mccarthys-ghost-in-us-spending-bill-battle-1114942774.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/iran-detains-2-vessels-smuggling-45mln-liters-of-fuel-in-persian-gulf---reports-1115429497.html

Iran Detains 2 Vessels Smuggling 4.5Mln Liters of Fuel in Persian Gulf - Reports

Iran Detains 2 Vessels Smuggling 4.5Mln Liters of Fuel in Persian Gulf - Reports

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The navy of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has detained two ships and arrested 34 crew members smuggling over 4.5 million liters of fuel in the Persian Gulf, Iranian media reported on Wednesday.

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The detention took place in the south off the coast of Abu Musa Island and was preceded by a three-day surveillance operation of IRGC officers, the Tasnim news agency reported. One of the seized tankers with 13 crew members on board was carrying 2.28 million liters of fuel, while the second tanker with 21 crew members on board was carrying 2.3 million liters of fuel. All the crew members were foreign citizens, the report said, adding that they had been handed over to Iran's judicial authorities for further legal procedures.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230808/us-stirs-up-waters-of-persian-gulf-escalates-tensions-with-iran-1112468227.html

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IDF Says 138 Israelis Held Hostage Still Missing in Gaza, Their Location Unclear

There are still 138 Israelis held hostage in the Gaza Strip and the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) do not know exactly where they are, an IDF official said.

Hundred-thirty-eight are still held hostage. It's still an ongoing process, we don't know exactly where everyone is, the IDF official told journalists on Wednesday.

On October 7, Hamas attacked Israel from the Gaza Strip. Israel declared war on Hamas and implemented a complete blockade of Gaza, cutting off supplies of water, food, medicines, electricity and fuel. Israel also started an indiscriminate bombing campaign and a ground invasion of Gaza.

Some 1,200 Israelis were killed in the Hamas attack and some 18,000 Palestinians in the Israeli military operations since then, with more than 38,000 Palestinians wounded.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/maduro-eyes-creating-24th-venezuelan-state-on-territory-of-neighboring-guyana-1115419575.html

Maduro Eyes Creating '24th Venezuelan State' on Disputed Territory of Neighboring Guyana

Maduro Eyes Creating '24th Venezuelan State' on Disputed Territory of Neighboring Guyana

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro announced the creation of Venezuela's 24th state, Guyana-Essekibo.

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2023-12-07T11:47+0000

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Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has put forward a proposal to the parliament, suggesting the establishment of Venezuela's 24th state, named Guyana-Essequibo. To back his bid, he produced a new map showing the disputed region of Essequibo as part of Venezuela. Maduro also vowed to distribute this map to all educational institutions without delay.In addition to calling Essequibo a "zone of integral defense", Venezuela's President Maduro has further proposed a deadline of three months for oil companies to halt offshore operations in the area. Last Sunday, a referendum was conducted to reaffirm Caracas's claim to Essequibo, which is known for its abundant oil reserves. The majority of citizens voted in favor of establishing a state on this disputed territory.President Mohamed Irfaan Ali of Guyana cautioned that the Maduro government's move to create Venezuela's 24th state is "a direct threat to its territorial integrity", and went on to stress that he would beef up precautionary measures to protect Guyana's territory.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231119/venezuela-to-support-measures-in-opec-to-encourage-mideast-dialogue----top-diplomat--1115052272.html

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According to Bloomberg, Ericsson secured a $14 billion contract to upgrade AT&T's wireless network. The deal involves building an open network, allowing AT&T to choose from various vendors for its antennas and infrastructure. It is described as a "strategic industry shift" to break away from a single-vendor relationship. The funds will be paid over five years, focusing on enhancing AT&T's infrastructure for 5G technology. Nokia, holding one-third of shares, will delay its plan to reach double-digit operating margins by two years, as shares tumbled at 5.9% after losing the bid. Nokia holds one-third of Stockholm trading, while Ericson's rose 6.1%, supplying two-thirds of the AT&T network.

Ericsson's decision to adopt open radio access network (RAN) technology is paying off with a lucrative contract from AT&T, potentially valued at nearly $14 billion over five years. This victory over Nokia could address Ericson's concerns about slow sales. However, the deal's multi-vendor aspect may pressure profit margins.

Open RAN (ORAN)

Open RAN (ORAN) offers significant cost reductions for telecom operators using cloud-based software and equipment from various suppliers. Although this approach might not be mutually compatible with proprietary equipment from particular companies such as Ericsson, Huawei, and Nokia, this technology has not been widely adopted despite the experiments of telecom providers such as Telefonica and Vodafone. New networks established by Dish and Japan's Rakuten are already using Open RAN.

AT&T has spent six months analyzing Open RAN with a team of hundreds, considering various vendors and proposals. Chris Sambar, AT&T's Executive Vice President of Network, mentioned that all new equipment they deploy will be capable of Open RAN. The spending by AT&T on this could reach around $14 billion over the five-year duration of the contract with Ericsson.

Nokia Losing Bid

Securing the Open RAN deal will position Ericsson as AT&T's largest supplier, gradually taking over Nokia's share. Nokia anticipates a decline in revenue from AT&T, which currently contributes 5-8% to its mobile networks unit, over the next 2-3 years. While Nokia expects the team to remain profitable, achieving a double-digit operating margin may be delayed by up to 2 years. Despite losing the contract, Nokia will still have sales to AT&T in other areas, maintaining a connection, as noted by Mads Lindegaard Rosendal, an analyst at Danske Bank Credit Research.

READ ALSO: National Broadcaster CBC/Radio-Canada Addressing Financial Pressures, Announces Workers Reduction and Budget Cuts

The contract highlights the contrasting situations in an industry facing low returns and a telecom sector hesitant to invest significantly in its networks. Nokia's shares fell to 7.9%, following a 6.5% decline on Monday, while Ericsson's rose by 5.6%. Both companies vied for an AT&T contract for an open radio access network, a more cloud-friendly and flexible solution than the previous integrated ones. AT&T's investment aligns with a global decline in 5G spending among telecom operators.

Western interest in OpenRAN grew as governments banned Huawei Technologies Co, aiming to foster a more competitive mobile technology ecosystem beyond Scandinavian firms. Ericsson's role in the shift to OpenRAN reflects its market-leading technology, noted Cevian Capital AB's Christer Gardell, emphasizing its importance for long-term growth.

Nokia's Final Comment On AT&T

Nokia's CEO, Pekka Lundmark, found AT&T's decision disappointing, given that AT&T contributed 5% to 8% of Nokia's Mobile Networks net sales this year. AT&T's move to OpenRAN provides flexibility in the network, allowing for more creativity, according to Chris Sambar, AT&T Network's executive vice president. US officials say embracing multiple suppliers enhances flexibility, reduces costs, and avoids dependence on non-US vendors flagged as security risks, such as Huawei. AT&T, the third-largest mobile provider in the US, anticipates benefits like lower-power, sustainable networks with higher performance from the new network.

RELATED ARTICLE: 1,500 Job Cuts As Spotify Streamlines Operations, Market Responds with Share Price Jump

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/mori-mps-unconventional-oath-sparks-controversy-charles-or-skin-rash-1115417197.html

Maori MPs' Unconventional Oath Sparks Controversy: Charles or Skin Rash?

Maori MPs' Unconventional Oath Sparks Controversy: Charles or Skin Rash?

Instead of using the official reference "Kingi Tiare" for the king in Maori during the opening, three Te Pati Maori MPs opted for "Kingi harehare," leaving observers to question whether the term signifies "Charles" or "skin rash."

2023-12-06T00:12+0000

2023-12-06T00:12+0000

2023-12-06T00:09+0000

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Te Pati Maori, a Maori political party known for its protests against swearing allegiance to New Zealand's head of state, recently brought a linguistic twist to parliamentary formalities, having since prompted a wave of eyebrow-raising gestures. The Maori word "harehare," used by the MPs, is cited in the Maori Dictionary as meaning both "Charles" and various skin conditions, including "sore" and "offensive" or "objectionable."When questioned about the unconventional choice, Te Pati Maori co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer stated that the party is always provocative, emphasizing the multiple meanings associated with words. Co-leader Rawiri Waititi explained that "hare" can be used as a term for Charles in some Maori-speaking regions, citing his personal reference to an uncle named Charles.However, conflicting interpretations emerged among Maori speakers. Takuta Ferris, another Te Pati Maori minister, referred to "hare" as "East Coast for Charles," while a political reporter noted that in his region, it means "scab."New Zealand First MP Shane Jones accused the MPs of making fun of the transliteration, emphasizing its potential objectionable connotations.Maori language expert Jack Potaka acknowledged the diverse meanings across regions, confirming "skin rash" and "Charles" as possible interpretations, in an email to UK media. He cautioned that the speaker's intent determines the accurate meaning, highlighting the linguistic diversity that can lead to varied interpretations influenced by regional nuances.Adding another layer to the unconventional oath, all Te Pati Maori MPs broke protocol by swearing allegiance to their grandchildren before pledging allegiance to the king. The oath's legitimacy is yet to be disputed by the clerk of the House.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20220510/prince-harry-roasted-for-appropriating-maori-culture-after-starring-in-skit-plugging-travalyst-1095401845.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/putin-arrives-in-abu-dhabi-for-talks-with-uae-president--1115419976.html

Putin Arrives in Abu Dhabi For Talks With UAE President

Putin Arrives in Abu Dhabi For Talks With UAE President

Sputnik goes live as Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives to the United Arab Emirates to meet with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and discuss bilateral, regional and international affairs.

2023-12-06T09:51+0000

2023-12-06T09:51+0000

2023-12-06T09:51+0000

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Sputnik is live as Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in the United Arab Emirates to meet with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and discuss bilateral, regional, and international affairs.The talks will cover the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip and other crises in the Middle East, including Syria, Yemen, and Sudan. The progress of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine is also expected to be on the agenda.Follow Sputniks live feed to learn more.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/putins-mideast-tour-why-arab-nations-defy-west-to-boost-ties-with-russia-1115432245.html

Putin's Mideast Tour: Why Arab Nations Defy West to Boost Ties With Russia

Putin's Mideast Tour: Why Arab Nations Defy West to Boost Ties With Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Saudi Arabia on December 6, having wrapped up his trip to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). What signal does Putin's Mideast tour send to the world?

2023-12-06T17:03+0000

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President Putin embarked on a Middle Eastern tour on Wednesday to meet with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the UAE and ruler of Abu-Dhabi, and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman al Saud.The Western press were quick to point out that the trips to Abu-Dhabi and Riyadh were Putin's first visits to the Mideast since the beginning of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine.The tour has clearly demonstrated that the West's efforts to smear and isolate Russia failed miserably, international observers say."Reading the tea leaves of international politics, it is possible to say with confidence that the Western nations' attempt to isolate Russia has performed quite poorly," Dr. Marco Carnelos, former Italian diplomat and Middle East Adviser of Prime Ministers Prodi and Berlusconi, told Sputnik. Why Mideast Players Didn't Buy Into West's Ukraine NarrativeAccording to Carnelos, the "Global Rest" did not buy into the West's oversimplified narrative of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict  which was presented as a clash between 'an aggressor and a victim', ignoring the broader historical context of NATO's eastward expansion and Kiev's sabotage of Minsk Agreements. But at last the truth has come out, the former diplomat stressed:That is why many countries continue to maintain close ties with Russia: "To hyper-simplify the Global Rest has not followed the Global West," he noted.Saudi Arabia and UAE: Independent Foreign PolicySaudi Arabia and the UAE have tried to construct a more autonomous foreign policy over the past few years, the expert continued. Both countries have sought to diversify political and economic ties and embrace multipolarity instead of outdated bloc thinking, according to Carnelos.Flourishing Trade and OPEC+ SuccessesRussia has deepened ties with the Middle Eastern players over the past several years, with the result that the UAE has become "Russia's main trading partner in the Arab world," as Putin remarked during the meeting in Abu Dhabi. Moscow's relations with Saudi Arabia allowed the two to stabilize global oil prices within the framework of OPEC+, the association of the major crude producers. "OPEC-plus has become the real referee of global energy policy regardless of US pressure on Middle Easterner major energy producers," Carnelos said."At the same time, Russian activity in the region, especially economically, is critical. As a matter of fact, Russia is one of the most significant oil-producing countries in the world," Rakipoglu continued. "There is potential for boosting economic relations between Russia and the Gulf Cooperation Council members."Russia: Effective and Capable PlayerRussia has also demonstrated that it is a strong player capable of protecting its own interests and shielding its allies. Moscow's decision to provide military assistance to Syria in response to the official request from Damascus demonstrated to regional countries that Russia's Middle Eastern strategy is comprehensive and balanced.BRICS Expansion Opens New Horizons for Middle EastIn addition, BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa), a club of major developing economies, has opened its doors to Middle Eastern nation  offering them new lucrative opportunities for wider markets, investments, and technological exchange. The group granted membership to Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and Saudi Arabia earlier this year.Palestine-Israel ConflictRussia has expressed its concerns over civilian deaths amid Israel's war in Gaza and lent vocal support to the two-state solution, calling for global recognition of a Palestine state in peaceful co-existence with Israel. Rakipoglu noted that Moscow's firm stance on the Palestinian issue has resonated with many Arab and Muslim nations across the world.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/putins-visits-to-uae-saudi-arabia-prompted-by-global-dynamics-of-gaza-war-1115428799.html

Putin's Visits to UAE, Saudi Arabia Prompted by Global 'Dynamics of Gaza War'

Putin's Visits to UAE, Saudi Arabia Prompted by Global 'Dynamics of Gaza War'

Russian President Vladimir Putins visit to the UAE and Saudi Arabia could be used by the Arab countries as 'leverage' to strongarm US into upholding its commitment to them,' Sami Hamdi, Saudi political analyst, told Sputnik.

2023-12-06T15:06+0000

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Vladimir Putins visit to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia could be used by the Arab countries as a signal, perhaps to the West," to show that "we have other options and we're not really happy with your policy towards Gaza, Abdulaziz Algashian, a Saudi political analyst, told Sputnik.The Russian President's trip to the Middle East comes amid turbulent developments in the region, with the Russian leader acutely aware of the international dynamics of the Gaza war, pointed out Algashian. He added that the Arab countries might seek to "leverage this visit and relations with Russia" relative to the Palestinian issue.For the Gulf States, relations with Russia are seen as an essential leverage in adapting to their changing relationship with the US, agreed Sami Hamdi, Saudi political analyst and head of the International Interest, a risk analysis group.Looking ahead, the extent of future cooperation with Russia as it stands remains dependent on the nature of the US-Gulf relationship. Although Gulf States will preserve their ties, the eagerness to expand those ties will correlate and fluctuate in accordance with the nature of their relationship with the US, the Saudi political analyst speculated.On a broader scale, there are a wide swathe of reasons for why Vladimir Putin chose this moment to embark upon his first foray to the region since 2019, underscored Algashian, a research fellow with SEPAD international research network and collaborative project based at Lancaster Universitys Richardson Institute. These range from the Middle Easts resentment over the Wests stance on Israels war against Hamas in Gaza to a need for further entrenching of economic relations, the pundit stressed.Vladimir Putin arrived in the United Arab Emirates to meet with Emirati President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and discuss bilateral, regional, and international affairs on December 6. Earlier, the Kremlin stated that talks would cover the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip and other crises in the Middle East, including Syria, Yemen, and Sudan. The progress of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine was also expected to be on the agenda. Also on the agenda of Wednesday was Putin's visit to Saudi Arabia. Israels relentless retaliation for the Hamas October 7 attack has been proceeding amid an intensifying chorus of global protests over the spiraling Palestinian civilian death toll in the Gaza Strip. As Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has pounded the enclave with the stated goal of eliminating Hamas, and then expanded their ground operation there, more than 16,200 Gazans have died from Israeli attacks, according to local health officials.Amid protest against what is seen as Israel's disproportionate military response, the US launched a feeble attempt at shuttle diplomacy, but Biden administration officials blocked calls for a ceasefire in Gaza at the UN. Earlier, US President Joe Biden was snubbed by Arab leaders on his visit to the Middle East amid popular rage against his support for Israel. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas cancelled a meeting with Biden in the Jordanian capital Amman which Egypt was also set to attend. Jordanian King Abdullah II called off the summit shortly afterwards, with Democratic POTUS forced to cancel his trip to Israel's eastern neighbor.Delegations from Arab countries have visited China and Russia to generate international support for ending the bloodshed in Gaza, Abdulaziz Algashian stressed. So I think that helped instigate the confidence for Putin to go to the Middle East," the expert added.The importance of furthering economic relations between Russia and the two countries in question cannot be underestimated, he pointed out. From the economic perspective, "Opec+ is the core issue," Abdulaziz Algashian said.Besides Moscows bilateral relations with Dubai and Riyadh, conflict resolution in the Middle East and discussions on oil market cooperation would also top the agenda at the talks, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated earlier. Moscow cooperates with all three countries through OPEC+  the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) plus allies led by Russia.I think the OPEC+ relationship is key for Saudi Arabia, said the expert, suggesting that for Riyadh, Russia is a very important strategic partner to not only stabilize the oil market, but to help improve it gradually because Saudi Arabia needs it very much. Recalling how Brazilian Energy Minister Alexandre Silveira recently announced his countrys intention to join the cooperation charter of the OPEC+ oil alliance, in effect from January 2024, the pundit speculated that the oil powerhouses were going to strategize, to see how they could move forward with the pricing of oil in the future.Returning to the Palestine-Israel conflict, Abdulaziz Algashian anticipated that something will come out about Gaza, and on the diplomatic level, Palestine is going to be a core issue.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231019/bidens-humiliation-in-middle-east-reflects-popular-contempt-for-us-role-1114315973.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/russia-not-discussing-issue-of-exchange-of-prisoners-with-us-publicly---kremlin-1115428621.html

Russia Not Discussing Issue of Exchange of Prisoners With US Publicly - Kremlin

Russia Not Discussing Issue of Exchange of Prisoners With US Publicly - Kremlin

Russia is not engaged in public discussions when it comes to the exchange of prisoners with the United States, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Sputnik on Wednesday when asked about new US proposal to exchange WSJ reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan.

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On Tuesday, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said that the US has made a new proposal to Russia to secure the release of Gershkovich and Whelan, but it has been rejected by Moscow. Paul Whelan was arrested in Moscow in December 2018 and subsequently sentenced to 16 years in prison on charges of espionage. Whelan, who is also a citizen of Canada, Ireland, and the United Kingdom, has maintained his innocence, insisting that he came to Russia to attend a friend's wedding.On March 29, US citizen Evan Gershkovich was arrested in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg on suspicion of trying to collect classified defense information for the United States. He has since remained in custody. If found guilty, the journalist could be facing up to 20 years of imprisonment.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/russia-saudi-arabia-have-good-relations-in-all-sectors-including-economy---putin-1115435352.html

Russia, Saudi Arabia Have Good Relations in All Sectors, Including Economy - Putin

Russia, Saudi Arabia Have Good Relations in All Sectors, Including Economy - Putin

Russia and Saudi Arabia have good relations in all sectors of cooperation, including economy, and it is important to exchange views on the regional situation, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday.

2023-12-06T17:21+0000

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"We have stable and very good relations in the field of political cooperation, in the economy, in the humanitarian fields," Putin said at a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud in Riyadh, adding that "it is very important for all of us now to exchange information and assessments about what is happening in the region." Circumstances have adjusted the plans for holding a meeting in Russia, but nothing will prevent cooperation, Putin said. "Your Highness, first of all, I want to thank you for the invitation. We were expecting you in Moscow. I know that circumstances have made adjustments to these plans. But, as I said, nothing can prevent the development of our friendly relations," Putin said, adding that the next such meeting should be held in Moscow.Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud said he is ready to pay a visit to Russia.The crown prince also said that the political cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Russia will have a positive impact on the situation in the Middle East."Thanks to the political coordination between Russia and Saudi Arabia, security in the Middle East has been strengthened. Our subsequent political coordination and interaction will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the global situation and the situation in the entire Middle East," Mohammed bin Salman said at a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Riyadh.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/putins-mideast-tour-why-arab-nations-defy-west-to-boost-ties-with-russia-1115432245.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/russia-uae-relations-reach-unprecedented-high-level---putin-1115426108.html

Russia-UAE Relations Reach Unprecedented High Level - Putin

Russia-UAE Relations Reach Unprecedented High Level - Putin

Relations between Russia and the United Arab Emirates have reached an unprecedented high level, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday.

2023-12-06T11:36+0000

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"Today, thanks to your position, our relations have reached an unprecedented high level. You and I are in constant contact, and our colleagues constantly work with each other. And indeed the United Arab Emirates is Russias main trading partner in the Arab world," Putin said at a meeting with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The president added that during the meeting, they will discuss the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, as well as he will inform about the Ukrainian crisis. Additionally, the Russian president invited the UAE counterpart to attend the BRICS summit in Kazan next year.UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Wednesday praised the role of Russian President Vladimir Putin in the strengthening of relations between the countries.In 2022, non-oil trade between the two countries increased by almost 109%, he said, adding that "this unprecedented leap speaks of the special nature of the relationship between our countries.""[The UAE] expects to continue to work together and develop cooperation with Russia in energy, infrastructure projects and advanced technologies," he added.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/scott-ritter-israel-headed-for-strategic-defeat-in-gaza-1115409414.html

Scott Ritter: Israel Headed for Strategic Defeat in Gaza

Scott Ritter: Israel Headed for Strategic Defeat in Gaza

The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. This quote is often attributed to Albert Einstein, although there is no direct evidence he either wrote or spoke it, let alone came up with it himself. But the wisdom of the saying is unescapable.

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The attack carried out by Hamas on October 7 against Israeli military positions and settlements which, collectively, formed what is known as the Gaza barrier system, triggered a massive Israeli military response. There are two aspects of this cause-and-effect relationship that stand out. First, and perhaps most importantly, it was the goal and objective of Hamas to have Israel respond impulsively. Hamas did not have to think out of the box, so to speak, to imagine such a reactionsince 2006, it has been established and well-known Israeli policy to conduct military campaign based upon the premise of collective punishment of a civilian population. Moreover, given the Israeli predilection for revenge that dates to the massacre of Israeli athletes during the 1972 Munich summer Olympics, a massive military incursion into Gaza to hold to account those responsible for the October 7 attacks was likewise as predictable as snow falling in Siberia in the wintertime.Second, and less predictable than the first, was the poor performance of the Israeli security establishment, including the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) and Israeli intelligence. Not only did the Israeli security forces fail to act on what appears to have been ample evidence pointing to a Hamas attack along the lines of that executed on October 7, but once the Hamas attack began, the failure of the IDF to defend against the attack, and the plodding, indiscriminate nature of the Israeli counterattack, which appears to have inflicted significant casualties on Israeli civilians that the Israeli authorities have attributed to the Hamas attackers, seriously eroded the notion of the invincibility and infallibility of the Israeli military and security establishment.But this was only the beginning of what would amount to a strategic Israeli defeat at the hands of Hamas. The Israelis proceeded to mobilize some 300,000 reservists, most of whom were sent to the Gaza front. While these forces were assembled, the Israeli Air Force began a bombing campaign against the civilian infrastructure of Gaza, including hospitals, mosques, schools, and refugee camps, which shocked the world in terms of its lethality. By ignoring the fundamental precepts of international humanitarian law, Israel allowed itself to be characterized as a practitioner of genocide, and its actions against Gaza as war crimes.This is the core of the Hamas victorythe political defeat of Israel on the global stage, where international sympathies rapidly aligned with the people of Gaza and Palestine, and away from Israel. War, the Prussian strategist Carl von Clausewitz famously noted, is politics by other means. Hamas has proven the maxim to its fullest extent, accomplishing politically that which could only be initiated by Israels criminal use of force against the Palestinian people.But even as international pressure began to accumulate for Israel to halt its offensive, Hamas was able to achieve what many outside observers had believed to be unthinkableit fought the IDF to a standstill in Gaza itself, inflicting significant human and material losses on the IDF. After declaring that Israel would never agree to a ceasefire or an exchange of prisoners with Hamas, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suddenly caved into international pressure to sign up for what became a six-day pause where humanitarian goods were delivered to the Palestinian civilians in Gaza, and Palestinian prisoners held by Israel were exchanged for hostages seized by Hamas on October 7. One of the major reasons for this decision lay not in the extreme pressure being put on Israel by the United States and its European allies for such an outcome, but the fact that the IDF was suffering serious losses on the battlefield in Gaza and along Israels northern border with Lebanon, where Hezbollah was engaged in military operations in support of Hamas. The casualties among Israeli main battle tanks were unsustainable, and the morale of the IDF soldiers was collapsingindeed, Israel had to courts-martial two IDF officers who withdrew their battalion from the Gaza battlefield under pressure from Hamas.For Benjamin Netanyahu, his administration of hard-right Zionists, and the Israeli security establishment, the ceasefire was a curse. Israel was compelled to enter such an agreement with Hamas by a combination of geopolitical and battlefield realities. But for an embattled politician such as Netanyahu, who was already facing a political crisis brought on by his undermining of the independent character of the Israeli judiciary in a blatant effort to make himself immune from prosecution on serious charges of corruption, the ceasefire created a window of political normalcy inside Israel which gave the Israeli population time to begin asking questions about October 7, and who was to blame for what has emerged as Israels greatest defeat in its history.All fingers pointed to Netanyahu, which meant that to survive politically, Netanyahu needed to get his country back on a war footing. The Israeli decision to terminate the negotiated pause with Hamas was inevitable and predictableNetanyahus political future depended on the chaos and violence that such an action would provoke.But nothing has changed. Israel continues to slaughter innocent Palestinian civilians, generating even greater levels of international condemnation. The IDF continues to be pummeled by Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah on Israels northern border. The geopolitical and military situation for Israel will only worsen.This was all predictable.The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result.Israel is, in fact, insane. While this insanity can be linked to the desperate political situation Netanyahu and his ruling coalition of hard-core Zionists have found themselves in, the reality is that the situation Israel finds itself in today was predictable.Just ask Albert Einstein. While the insanity quote may not be his, Einstein can be quoted both about Zionism and the Israeli state.In 1947, Einstein wrote a letter to Jawaharlal Nehru in which he addressed the need for a Jewish homeland in the Middle East. The advent of Hitler, Einstein wrote, underscored with a savage logic all the disastrous implications contained in the abnormal situation in which Jews found themselves. Millions of Jews perished...because there was no spot on the globe where they could find sanctuary...The Jewish survivors demand the right to dwell amid brothers, on the ancient soil of their fathers.Einstein worried about the potential of a clash between the citizens of this new Jewish state, and the Arabs who lived on the land that would be incorporated into what would become Israel. Can Jewish need, no matter how acute, be met without the infringement of the vital rights of others? Einstein sked. My answer is in the affirmative. One of the most extraordinary features of the Jewish rebuilding of Palestine is that the influx of Jewish pioneers has resulted not in the displacement and impoverishment of the local Arab population, but in its phenomenal increase and greater prosperity.Einstein penned these words in 1947, ignorant of the history that would come in less than a year, when Israel carried out the Nakba, of mass murder and expulsion of the Arab population of Palestine.Looking at the harm caused by Israel under the leadership of Benjamin Netanyahu, and successive generations of Israelis and Israeli leaders dating back to the creation of Israel in 1948, the inner damage to Judaism has been immense. And the damage will only continue to accrue so long as Israel persists in its insane campaign against Hamas and the Palestinians of Gaza.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231205/palestine-israel-conflict-cant-be-solved-on-battlefield--mideast-experts-1115406987.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/shia-militant-groups-announce-another-attack-on-us-base-in-western-iraq-1115421792.html

Shia Militant Groups Announce Another Attack on US Base in Western Iraq

Shia Militant Groups Announce Another Attack on US Base in Western Iraq

The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, which includes Shia militant groups, announced on Wednesday another attack on the US's Al-Asad Airbase in Iraq's western Anbar Province in response to hostilities in the Gaza Strip.

2023-12-06T08:34+0000

2023-12-06T08:34+0000

2023-12-06T08:34+0000

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The action was taken in response to the suffering of the people of the Gaza Strip amid ongoing Israeli military operations in the enclave, the movement said on Telegram, adding that a drone attack was launched that "directly hit its target." Following the resumption of Israeli military activity in Gaza on Friday, militant groups began targeting US bases in Iraq and Syria, with the most recent attack taking place on December 4. On October 7, Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel from the Gaza Strip and breached the border. Israel launched retaliatory strikes and ordered a complete blockade of Gaza, cutting off supplies of water, food, and fuel. On October 27, Israel launched a ground incursion into the Gaza Strip with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages. On November 24, Qatar mediated a deal between Israel and Hamas on a temporary truce and the exchange of some of the prisoners and hostages, as well as the delivery of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. The truce was extended several times and expired this past Friday, when the Israeli military resumed fighting against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, saying the group had violated the humanitarian pause.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231115/us-air-force-bases-to-face-unimaginably-worse-attacks-than-during-cold-war---pentagon-1114986280.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/szijjarto-accuses-baerbock-of-misunderstanding-hungarys-stance-on-ukraine-1115418340.html

Top Hungarian Diplomat Accuses German FM of Misunderstanding Budapests Ukraine Stance

Top Hungarian Diplomat Accuses German FM of Misunderstanding Budapests Ukraine Stance

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has accused his German counterpart, Annalena Baerbock, of misunderstanding Hungary's position on Ukraine's prospects in the European Union after she called it a "game."

2023-12-06T04:25+0000

2023-12-06T04:25+0000

2023-12-06T09:01+0000

world

europe

peter szijjarto

hungary

ukraine

european union (eu)

brussels

viktor orban

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On Tuesday, during her visit to Slovenia, Baerbock commented on Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's proposal to refrain from discussing Ukraine's accession to the EU at the upcoming EU summit, saying that it was not time to "play games." The minister added that "neither Hungarian people nor the Hungarian government nor the parliament" see in what way accelerated accession talks with Ukraine would be good for Europe. Ukraine applied for EU membership in February 2022 and was granted candidate status four months later, all against the backdrop of the Russian special military operation. On November 8 of this year, the European Commission recommended launching accession talks with Ukraine. The formal decision is expected to be made at the EU's December 14-15 summit in Brussels, and it will require the unanimous support of all member states. Following a meeting with European Council President Charles Michel in Budapest last week, Orban said he suggested that Brussels not include the Ukraine accession talks on the December summit's agenda, but rather postpone it for five to 10 years until a clearer outlook for strategic cooperation with the country takes shape.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231113/hungary-refuses-to-approve-allocation-of-500mln-euros-for-arms-for-ukraine-1114927147.html

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In the upcoming TV series "Maestra: Strings of Truth," Lee Young-ae, a versatile actress who has played a vast array of characters over the course of her three-decade career, takes on a role that has seldom been in the spotlight: a female conductor.

Lee said she was attracted to the character, Cha Se-eum, for the very reason that she would certainly be the first Korean actress to play a maestra.

"The character looked very appealing to me as an actor since there has been no Korean TV series that shines the spotlight on a maestra, not that I know of. Plus, the storyline is really fascinating," she said at a promotional event for tvN's new series Wednesday.

Based on the French TV series titled "Philharmonia," the series revolves around Se-eum, a violinist-turned-world-renowned conductor, who returns to Korea after 20 years of living overseas to lead the orchestra, The Hankang Philharmonic, only to find herself forced to deal with a former boyfriend (Lee Moo-saeng) still in love with her and her overly dependent husband (Kim Young-jae) who feels inferior to her.

To make matters even more complicated, she also has to find the truth behind a tragedy that happens at the ensemble, while facing her own "demons" from the past at the same time.

For the role, Lee started to learn violin and conducting from professional musicians in November last year. While the practice was "fierce," great teamwork and excellent production helped make up for what maybe was lacking, she said.

Director Kim Jung-kwon took extra care when casting the roles for the ensemble, prioritizing those who can play classical music instruments.

"Everyone practiced extremely hard," Kim said. "I would like the audience to carefully watch Lee's gaze and movements while conducting. You could see how passionate she is."

Other than the 2008 MBC TV series "Beethoven Virus," starring Kim Myung-min as the maestro, there have rarely been TV series about a classical music conductor, not to mention those about a maestra.

"'Beethoven Virus' was a good one, but I am very confident about this new series. ... All the cast members showed great passion for the show, and the director led the team very well. Plus, we have a high-quality orchestra," Lee said.

"Because of its strong story plot, I could naturally immerse myself in the character, and the power of music and conducting was just great."

The 12-part series is set to premiere Saturday on tvN. It will also be streaming on Tving and Disney+ in select regions. (Yonhap)
https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/testy-senate-briefing-on-ukraine-aid-explodes-into-screaming-match--1115422591.html

'Testy' Senate Briefing on Ukraine Aid Explodes Into 'Screaming Match'

'Testy' Senate Briefing on Ukraine Aid Explodes Into 'Screaming Match'

A testy atmosphere reportedly prevailed at a classified Senate briefing on Ukraine on Tuesday between the Republicans and the Democrats over further funding for the regime in Kiev.

2023-12-06T13:14+0000

2023-12-06T13:14+0000

2023-12-06T13:14+0000

us

ukraine

us congress

chuck schumer

volodymyr zelensky

republicans

democrats

senate

joe biden

americas

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A testy atmosphere prevailed at Tuesday's classified Senate briefing on Ukraine, Chad Pergram, a senior congressional correspondent for Fox News, has tweeted. Tensions flared between the Republicans and the Democrats over further funding for the Kiev regime, with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) accusing one GOP senator of "screaming at a general", according to Pergrams post on X (formerly Twitter).As tempers boiled over, some senators are described as having stormed out of the meeting in protest, further dimming the prospects for any bipartisan agreement in the near future. Ukraine Aid ConundrumAt the beginning of the week, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced that a procedural test vote on a supplemental package, which includes funding for Ukraine, would take place on Wednesday. In light of this, a classified briefing for Senators was scheduled for December 5. The purpose of the briefing was to provide all 100 US senators with a chance to ask questions pertaining to the Biden administration's funding request.The Biden administration has been warning that the United States would soon exhaust its aid for Ukraine unless prompt action is taken by Congress. On December 4, Shalanda Young, Biden's Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), penned a letter to lawmakers cautioning that, "There is no magical pot of funding available... We are out of moneyand nearly out of time." Thus, to tackle this pressing matter, a closed-door briefing was organized, which was attended by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Pentagon Chief Lloyd Austin, and Joint Chiefs Chair Gen. C.Q. Brown. In addition, leaders from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and the US Agency for International Development were present at the briefing.Zelensky Skips OutFurthermore, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky who was supposed to address lawmakers via teleconference canceled at the last minute. Zelensky, by the way, could not make it  something happened at the last minute, the Senates Democratic leader Chuck Schumer told the media. Instead, Zelensky's chief of staff Andriy Yermak, along with Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and the speaker of parliament visited the Capitol. Closed-Door Meeting MeltdownWith Zelensky conspicuously absent, it was up to Biden administration officials to make the pitch for additional aid to Ukraine. However, tempers flared among Republicans as they were denied answers about the US border crisis. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) was accused by Chuck Schumer of attempting to "hijack the meeting" by fixating on border security. In turn, Republicans bemoaned the absence of border officials at the gathering, reportedly accusing Schumer of not wanting "to have a negotiation about it.""He wouldnt bring anybody in here to talk about it... Clearly the military people in the room dont want to talk about it," Senator Kevin Cramer, Republican of North Dakota, told reporters. Cramer was described as confronting General Brown at the briefing, accusing him of never having been to the border to witness what was unfolding there. Cramer (R-N.D.) dismissed the entire briefing as ridiculous and unserious.At one particularly boiling point, Kevin Cramer, along with Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) reportedly started shouting questions at Biden administration officials. As for Schumer's stance, Cramer added:Frustrated Senate Minority Whip John Thune (R-S.D.), the second-highest Republican in the upper chamber of the US Congress, was quoted as saying: Sen. Todd Young (R-Ind.) was of the same opinion, clarifying that, Their clear lack of preparedness to discuss and clear apprehension to utter a word as it pertains to border security policy was not just an oversight... It was intentional.It was evident that there was a lack of progress when, just 40 minutes into the briefing, a number of Republicans stormed out in anger. Senator Deb Fischer, a Republican from Nebraska, criticized the Biden administration for consistently regurgitating information about Ukraine without addressing any GOP queries regarding the situation on the US-Mexico border.The Republican senator who is a senior Senate Armed Services Committee member added that Many of us just walked out, weve had it, weve had it. Senate Intelligence Chair Mark Warner (D-Va.) also told reporters that, "Feelings were running high.Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell reiterated that he wanted all GOP lawmakers to vote "no" on the procedural vote on international aid to make the point, hopefully for the final time, that we insist on meaningful changes to the border.As for Mike Johnson, who was appointed as new speaker of the House of Representatives on October 25, he reiterated after the briefing that the position of Congressional Republicans on foreign aid had been articulated clearly. "We reiterated in the auditorium what I've been saying privately publicly to these White House officials in the SCIF, and that is that there are two essential and I think eminently reasonable prerequisites to the additional funding to Ukraine," the speaker was cited as saying. These preconditions are, specifically, that supplemental Ukraine funding be linked to "enactment of transformative change" to the US border security laws. Furthermore, Johnson underscored the importance of "critical answers" being provided regarding "objectives, oversight of the funding, and our Ukraine strategy."During the heated exchange between Democratic and Republican lawmakers regarding the passage of foreign aid alongside domestic border security measures, Republicans chose not to include military assistance for Ukraine in a stopgap spending bill to keep the government funded. The growing skepticism over propping up Kiev is being fueled by its failed counteroffensive, the Zelensky regime's infighting, and overall 'Ukraine fatigue'. Furthermore, as the US gears up for the 2024 presidential elections, it's hardly surprising that pressing domestic problems are likely to become prioritized.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231128/border-security-funds-should-not-be-tied-with-money-for-losing-ukraine--rep--1115249842.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231114/us-desire-to-pay-ukraines-way-hits-new-low-as-israel-and-border-issues-take-priority-1114952320.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231005/huge-financial-burden-of-ukraine-support-driving-fatiguein-us-and-europe-1113962336.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/texas-sues-federal-government-and-blinken-for-censorship-attempt---state-attorney-general-1115436082.html

Texas Sues Federal Government and Blinken for Censorship Attempt - State Attorney-General

Texas Sues Federal Government and Blinken for Censorship Attempt - State Attorney-General

Texas attorney-general joins two media companies in a lawsuit against the US Department of State and Secretary of State Antony Blinken for allegedly trying to censor and delegitimize American media companies that took editorial positions they disapproved of, the Office of the Texas Attorney-General said on Wednesday.

2023-12-06T18:45+0000

2023-12-06T18:45+0000

2023-12-06T18:50+0000

americas

us

newsfeed

antony blinken

texas

global engagement center

state department

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"The State of Texas and media companies The Daily Wire and The Federalist have sued the US Department of State, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other government officials for engaging in a conspiracy to censor, deplatform, and demonetize American media outlets disfavored by the federal government," the release says. The State Department utilized its Global Engagement Center to actively intervene in the news-media market seeking to limit the reach and business viability of domestic news organizations by funding censorship tech mechanisms and private censorship enterprises, the official statement reads. The complaint characterizes the State Departments project as one of the most egregious government operations to censor the American press in the history of the nation.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/turkiye-greece-to-ink-declaration-on-good-relations-erdogan-says-ahead-of-athens-visit-1115422293.html

Turkiye, Greece to Ink Declaration on Good Relations, Erdogan Says Ahead of Athens Visit

Turkiye, Greece to Ink Declaration on Good Relations, Erdogan Says Ahead of Athens Visit

Turkiye and Greece will sign a declaration on friendly and good neighborly relations, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has told a Greek newspaper.

2023-12-06T08:44+0000

2023-12-06T08:44+0000

2023-12-06T11:23+0000

world

recep tayyip erdogan

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greece

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kyriakos mitsotakis

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Erdogan plans to visit Athens on Thursday. According to the Turkish leaders, both countries express readiness for cooperation. Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he intends to tell Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis that he does not consider Greece an enemy and that Turkiye does not make threats unless it is threatened."I believe that the problems will be solved through dialogue and goodwill. There are many interrelated problems that need to be solved beyond the continental shelf. We have to look at them as a whole. A selective approach is wrong - talking about some issues and not others. Because they are all interrelated. When we deal with international justice, we should not leave any issue unaddressed," Erdogan said.According to Erdogan, the two countries have recently shown the will to promote cooperation."This common intention will also be clearly stated in the Declaration on Friendly Relations and Good Neighborliness that we hope to sign in Athens on December 7," the Turkish president said.NATO allies Greece and Turkiye have been at odds for decades, with the risk of an armed conflict arising several times. The disputed issues include competing territorial claims in the eastern Mediterranean, in particular in the region of the Aegean Sea, the Greek-Turkish divide in Cyprus, and the delimitation of maritime boundaries. Turkey has repeatedly accused Greece of deploying weapons on the Aegean Islands in violation of the 1923 Lausanne Treaty.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230221/blinken-urges-greece-turkiye-to-resolve-longstanding-differences-in-aegean-cyprus-1107679463.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/us-helped-overthrow-ukraines-elected-govt-in-2014---gop-rep--1115421058.html

US 'Helped Overthrow' Ukraine's Elected Gov't in 2014 - GOP Rep.

US 'Helped Overthrow' Ukraine's Elected Gov't in 2014 - GOP Rep.

The US helped overthrow Ukraine's lawfully-elected government in 2014, Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., said in an interview with journalist Tucker Carlson.

2023-12-06T10:26+0000

2023-12-06T10:26+0000

2023-12-06T10:26+0000

world

thomas massie

tucker carlson

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The US helped overthrow Ukraine's lawfully-elected government in 2014, Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., said in an interview with journalist Tucker Carlson. The so-called Euromaidan protests in Kiev culminated in the February 2014 coup d'etat, which brought radical pro-EU and pro-NATO politicians to power and plunged Ukraine into crisis, leading to the current conflagration.Washington has been sabre-rattling against Russia ever since, drumming up sanctions and restrictions that were obviously going to have consequences, and that is exactly what happened, the Republican congressman underscored.Massie joined Carlsons show on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday to discuss the Biden administrations push for more funding for Ukraine, even though it is a conflict the Kiev regime cannot win.Massie went on to explain that the American military-industrial complex reaps profits from deadly munitions manufacturing in the US. He referenced a letter that President Joe Bidens head of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Shalanda Young sent to Speaker Mike Johnson just recently, arguing the need for spending more on Ukraine. "And what they said is they want to revitalize our defense industrial base, Massie said, but pointed out:And they sent a list of states that would get money when we spend, you know, money on deadly munitions because they have to be manufactured in Alabama or Ohio or Texas, Massie added.Ukraine will not be able to take control of the Crimean Peninsula, it will not be able to win the conflict, and it is immoral to finance the "depletion of Russia" at the expense of the lives of Ukrainians, Thomas Massie underscored. He also clarified that the US is spending twice as much on destroying Ukraine's infrastructure with its lethal assistance as on its own bridges and roads, and Kiev will also be asked to rebuild it at American expense.At this point, Tucker Carlson highlighted that those in the US who prevented a peace deal and were intent on fueling the proxy war against Russia in Ukraine were fighting a war they cannot win.Agreeing with the host, Massie summed up that to support this money you have to be economically illiterate and morally deficient.It should be noted that the White House administration has recognized that the funds previously allocated for the Kiev regime are close to being depleted. In her aforementioned letter to lawmakers, Shalanda Young said the US would run out of funding for funneling weapons to Ukraine by the end of the year. Lack of continued funding would kneecap Kiev, Young warned.Amid GOP skepticism about propping up Ukraine, the Republicans have been insisting on changes to the US-Mexico border policy amid the migrant crisis as a precondition for the assistance. Further heated negotiations are expected this week.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231205/us-senate-democrats-release-draft-bill-outlining-111-billion-ukraine-israel-aid-1115416978.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230901/marjorie-taylor-greene-biden-dragged-us-into-proxy-war-with-russia-that-moscow-is-winning-1113041167.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231130/how-does-ukraine-military-aid-find-its-way-to-us-arms-makers-1115300334.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/us-to-get-access-to-17-swedish-military-facilities-after-inking-new-defense-deal-1115423776.html

US to Get Access to 17 Swedish Military Facilities After Inking New Defense Deal

US to Get Access to 17 Swedish Military Facilities After Inking New Defense Deal

The United States and Sweden finalized a defense cooperation agreement that will apply before and after Stockholm's NATO accession is complete, the State Department said in a press release.

2023-12-06T10:44+0000

2023-12-06T10:44+0000

2023-12-06T10:44+0000

military

sweden

stockholm

stockholm archipelago

nato

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us

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Under the new Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) with Sweden, the US will now be granted access to military facilities at 17 Swedish locations throughout the Scandinavian country.There are several military bases spread out across Sweden. In the north, bases are located in Kiruna, Ostersund, and Lulea. To the southwest, Halmstad hosts another base. In the south, Ronneby is home to yet another military base. Additionally, there are bases on the island of Gotland and the Berga naval base is situated in proximity to the Stockholm archipelago.The deal grants the US Armed Forces access to various military facilities such as training grounds, camps, ports, airbases, and airports. However, its implementation is contingent upon approval from the Swedish parliament. Furthermore, the legislature will be required to address constitutional amendments required for executing the treaty. These amendments will be subject to discussions scheduled for 2024.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230620/us-bombers-debut-on-swedish-soil-in-historic-drill-1111311713.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/watch-russian-mi-28n-helicopters-hit-ukrainian-strongholds-and-manpower-1115418512.html

Watch Russian Mi-28N Helicopters Hit Ukrainian Strongholds and Manpower

Watch Russian Mi-28N Helicopters Hit Ukrainian Strongholds and Manpower

The Russian Defense Ministry has released footage of Russian Mi-28N helicopters hit Ukrainian strongholds and manpower in the Donetsk region.

2023-12-06T05:08+0000

2023-12-06T05:08+0000

2023-12-06T05:08+0000

russia's special operation in ukraine

russia

russian defense ministry

mi-28n

ukraine

donetsk

video

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The Russian Defense Ministry has released footage of Russian Mi-28N helicopters hitting Ukrainian strongholds and manpower in the Donetsk region.After take-off, the helicopters approached the combat zone at an extremely low altitude. After checking the coordinates, the navigators of the helicopters aimed their weapons at the designated targets. The next moment, the crews performed an anti-missile maneuver and turned back.

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Russian Mi-28N helicopters strike Ukrainian strongholds and manpower in Donetsk direction Russian Mi-28N helicopters strike Ukrainian strongholds and manpower in Donetsk direction 2023-12-06T05:08+0000 true PT1M03S

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Watch Russian Paratroopers Shoot Down Ukrainian Reconnaissance Drones

Watch Russian Paratroopers Shoot Down Ukrainian Reconnaissance Drones

The Russian Defense Ministry has released footage of air defense units of the Ivanovo paratroopers destroying three reconnaissance drones of the Ukrainian Armed Forces with the help of portable anti-aircraft missile systems "Verba" and "Strela-10".

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The Russian Defense Ministry has released footage of air defense units of Ivanovo paratroopers destroying three reconnaissance drones of the Ukrainian Armed Forces with the help of Verba and Strela-10 portable anti-aircraft missile systems.Air defense units of the Airborne Forces constantly protect units from aerial attacks and enemy reconnaissance. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, the Ivanovo paratroopers have equipped a network of air surveillance points in the direction of Artemovsk (Bakhmut), which allow timely detection and destruction of enemy aircraft.

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Russian paratrooper air defense crews shot down three Ukrainian reconnaissance drones in the Artemovsk direction Russian paratrooper air defense crews shot down three Ukrainian reconnaissance drones in the Artemovsk direction 2023-12-06T06:36+0000 true PT0M31S

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231206/which-of-ukraines-erstwhile-allies-have-fled-sinking-ship-of-support-1115424965.html

Which of Ukraines Erstwhile Allies Have Fled Sinking Ship of Support?

Which of Ukraines Erstwhile Allies Have Fled Sinking Ship of Support?

Washington assembled what officials hailed as a broad international coalition of support for Ukraine in the proxy war against Russia in 2022, marshalling over $175 billion in assistance, including weapons and cash to keep Kiev afloat economically. Close to two years on, many of Americas allies look like theyre reaching the end of their ropes.

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German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius distanced Berlin from Kiev, stressing that the partnership between the two countries does not constitute an alliance, and complaining that Russias sanctions-resistant weapons industry has made Ukraines military strategy more difficult.Pistorius noted that its not as if Kiev has been receiving arms aid while Russia has gotten nothing. Its not the case that we only deliver [weapons] and nothing new comes from Russia for the Russian armed forces, he said. On the contrary, in spite of sanctions, Russias defense sector continues to produce equipment, even if its not the most modern materiel, in the German defense ministers estimation.Admitting that the production of German weapons and ammunition for Ukraine was going slower than planned, Pistorius stressed that the slow delivery was neither a political nor a financial issue, but a problem of limited peacetime production capacity which he said takes time to ramp up. Pistorius also reassured that Germany has been and continues to be by far the second largest sponsor of Kiev overall.Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova jumped at the German officials ally comment, suggesting Pistorious has unwrapped a brand new pair of loafers he got last Christmas and changed his shoes, a Russian saying meaning "reversing ones position" or "changing ones tune."What Other Countries Have Changed Their Shoes on Ukraine?Germany has to date been by far the largest individual supporter of Ukraine among any country besides the United States, committing some $18.4 billion in military aid, and over $4.1 billion in economic and humanitarian assistance, not counting Berlins support for European Union institutions aid funds.In light of Pistorius comments, its worth recalling that Berlin is far from the only European NATO ally to have changed its tune on support for the blocs Ukrainian allies.PolandPoland, the alliance member bordering Ukraine to the West, has been a conduit for Western arms flow to Ukraine throughout the current crisis, and actively cheerled Kiev politicians push to break off from its historic relationship with Moscow and join Western institutions going back to the 2005 color revolution and the 2014 coup.That began to change in the summer, with a spat over Ukrainian agribusinesss habit of dumping produce and livestock in Poland and undercutting local farmers, combined with economic problems stemming from the EUs shortsighted decision to attempt to sanction Russia into submission, culminating in Polish President Andrzej Dudas characterization of Ukraine in September as a dangerous drowning man that threatens to drag others, including Poland, down with it into oblivion.Poland, the seventh-largest donor to Kiev militarily and economically to date, has scaled back its weapons aid, while politicians have called on Volodymyr Zelensky, and Brussels, to compensate Warsaw for the assistance already provided.SlovakiaPoland isnt the only one of Ukraines western neighbors to scale back its support to Kiev in recent months. In late October, Slovakias newly elected Prime Minister, Robert Fico, announced that Bratislava would no longer supply weapons to Ukraine, saying humanitarian supplies would be the only support the country will send going forward.Fico, whose country similarly suffered the economic impact of Ukrainian agro-businesses dumping policy, also has some words of advice for Brussels, suggesting that the EU should change from an arms supplier to a peacemaker.Western EuropeIn wealthier Western European countries too, officials have carefully expressed their displeasure over the Ukrainian crisis in more obscure ways. In October, for example, Norway joined a growing number of nations brainstorming ways to pay off Ukrainian refugees living in the country to go back home. In neighboring Finland, law enforcement officials broke the taboo on Kievs corruption problems and their impact domestically a year earlier, reporting that arms destined for arms were somehow ending up in the hands of local gangs.United StatesIn Washington  the ultimate benefactor determining Ukraines military and economic fate, officials have privately sent out feelers for possible peace talks in media in recent weeks, amid wrangling in Congress between MAGA Republicans on one side, and Democrats and the more traditional neocon foreign policy hawk wing of the GOP on the other.In his media interview this week, Pistorius emphasized that Berlin would continue to stay the course in paying into the proxy war in Ukraine. Over in Washington, too, President Joe Biden emphasized on Tuesday that the failure to support Ukraine would be absolutely crazy and just wrong.But the German defense ministers decision to emphasize that Kiev is not an ally, when viewed against the backdrop of other erstwhile allies stepping back on their assistance, signals if nothing else a tonal shift away from the Wests erstwhile bravado-filled rhetoric about Ukraines European future and the prospect of NATO membership.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231012/gratitudes-not-currency-ukraine-needs-to-pay-up-for-aid-says-polish-politician-1114127572.html

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The Nebraska Court of Appeals has upheld the conviction of a Gering man convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl.

A Scotts Bluff County District Court jury convicted Mario Blanco on a charge of first-degree sexual assault of a child, a Class IB felony, on January 20, 2023. The jury heard testimony from the victim in the case, who alleged that when she was 14 years old, Blanco had given her marijuana and sexually assaulted her in the early morning hours of Aug. 13, 2021.

The girls mother also testified, telling the jury that she had woke early that morning and found Blanco leaving the girls bedroom. She said she confronted Blanco about why he was in the girls room, but the girl told her mother she was OK. However, a cousin testified that she had spoken to the girl on Facetime a few hours later and the girl disclosed that Blanco had touched her inappropriately. The girl later disclosed to her mother, who contacted her probation officer and he reported it to the Nebraska Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline, which spurred an investigation from the Scottsbluff Police Department.

At trial, Blanco had objected to the testimony of the cousin being entered into evidence, arguing that it was hearsay. The Scotts Bluff County District Court judge allowed the testimony, agreeing with prosecutors that it was an excited utterance and an allowable exception. Blanco appealed, arguing that the court erred in allowing the cousin to testify. He argued that the girl had called her cousin the day after the sexual assault, therefore it did not qualify as an excited utterance.

The Nebraska Court of Appeals affirmed the conviction, ruling that though the evidence supports that the girl made the call within a few hours of the assault, it didnt matter when the girl called her cousin, but that the disclosure was spontaneous. The evidence from testimony supported that the girl was still experiencing the effects of this startling event and was still under the stress of the event at the time of her statements to her cousin.

Blanco was sentenced in May 2023 to 20 to 40 years in prison. He was also convicted of being a habitual offender, which means that he will be required to serve a mandatory minimum of 15 years imprisonment before he can be released.
The identity of a man who died while jailed at the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center has been released.

Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark Overman released Monday that detention center staff found an adult male inmate unresponsive on Friday, Dec. 1 at about 6:30 p.m. The man, who Overman identified as David C. Roberts, 46, of Scottsbluff, was later pronounced deceased at the hospital. The man had been arrested on Nov. 29 on a charge of violating of the Nebraska Sex Offender Registry requirements.

The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating Robert's death.

After the man was discovered unresponsive, Overman said in a press release that officers performed CPR and used an automated external defibrillator (AED) in attempts to resuscitate him. He was transported to Regional West Medical Center by Valley Ambulance.

Medical staff declared the man deceased at about 8 p.m.

Overman said the man was alone in a cell at the time of this occurrence. At this time, there is no sign of foul play or self-harm. An autopsy was performed Monday, though details about the findings were not released.

Nebraska state statute requires a grand jury investigation when an inmate dies while in custody.
Actor shares his evolving role in the new season

By Lee Gyu-lee

Without question, actor Song Kang shot to global stardom after landing the lead role of Cha Hyun-soo in Netflix's apocalyptic series Sweet Home, which made waves on the streaming platform in 2020.

The horror action series revolves around a group of residents, including troubled teen Cha (Song), at an apartment building called Green Home, fighting for survival amid a disturbing phenomenon where humans turn into savage monsters.

About three years after its premiere, the series is back with a new season, expanding its plot and characters. The second season, which was released on Dec. 1, follows Cha and other neighbors leaving the apartment and facing new challenges in the outside world with the ever-present fear of monsters and another mysterious threat.

Yet, with the introduction of the characters, the new seasons biggest and most notable change is its lead actor, Song, who has a noticeably reduced amount of screen time, stirring controversy among fans of the series.

The actor spoke about his shorter appearance in the new season, emphasizing that he trusted the series creator, director Lee Eung-bok.

I didnt resent, but rather I felt that the director had his purpose (in doing that). So I just did my best in following his directions, Song told The Korea Times during an interview at a cafe in Jongno District, downtown Seoul, Tuesday.

It is satisfying to see new characters coming into play with an impact. I think I played a role as a kind of bridge in season 2 (for the unfolding narrative.)"

He hinted that the third season, set for release in 2024, will delve deeper into Chas story, which will make season 2s plot more understandable.

(Cha) will have a more active role in season 3. It will show a different side of Cha compared to season 2 and the story will unfold around those from Green Home reuniting with each other, he said. While season 2 was about them spreading out and their individual perspectives, they get back together in season 3. So, the storyline will converge individual journeys into a collective narrative once again.

Despite his reduced presence this season, Song portrays Cha sacrificing himself for an experiment to study the phenomenon turning people into monsters.

Song shared that he focused on portraying his character more maturely, as he went from an isolated teenager to an altruistic person who is willing to sacrifice himself for the greater good.

Preparing for this transformation involved a deeper personal connection with his character.

After season 2 was confirmed, I watched season 1 again and I empathized with Cha. In season 2, I focused on the moments where he grows and becomes more mature. In season 1, I expressed emotions as they were but with season 2, Cha went to the shelter with the mindset of sacrificing himself, he said, adding that he tried to stay in character even while off set to keep the characters emotions.

All of (Chas) emotions and thoughts are unusual to exist in reality. So I tried to live with Cha's emotions as much as possible, even as Song Kang  I always contemplated his emotions. I have a playful side but whenever such a personality would come out, I tried to restrain it and try to stay focused on Chas mindset for about a year.
This column started with a Hallmark ornament  of Fred Astaire as the story-telling mailman of the Christmas TV chestnut, Santa Claus is Coming to Town (1970).

The story of Fred and Adele Astaire needs to be set straight of their childhood days in Omaha, before their mother whisked them to New York City and future stardom in vaudeville, the stage and, for Fred, motion pictures.

They were the only children of Fred and Johanna Austerlitz. A marriage that would have stirred up social media.

Johanna Geilus, known later as Ann, was 16 when 25-year-old Fred wed her on Nov. 17, 1894, at the First German Lutheran Church.

Austerlitz was a recent immigrant from Vienna whose father was a widely known writer and poet in Austria. According to Fred Astaires memoir, Fred and Ann met at a party while she was attending parochial school. Times were different then.

Adele was born Sept. 10, 1896, when the young couple was renting rooms in the rear of a house at 1112 S. 11th St.

Her first newspaper mention was in 1899, when a palmist had his predictions recorded in The World-Herald. For little Adele, barely 2, Carl Perin said, Will make an excellent musician.

Close.

The Austerlitzes were living at 2326 S. 10th St. when their son was born on May 10, 1899. That is the only one of the Austerlitz family homes in Omaha still standing.

Within the next year, Fred Austerlitz moved his family closer to his workplace, the Storz Brewery at 16th and Grace streets. He was sales manager. The Austerlitzes were at 1429 N. 19th St. (Florence Boulevard) in the 1900 city directory, then at 1426 in the 1903 directory.

In his 1959 memoir, Steps in Time, Fred recalls that the wooden frame homes were about a 20-minute walk to downtown and not much faster by buggy. On Sundays, hed ride with his father to visit friends at Saks Cigar Store.

He remembered the sounds of the railroad switchyards on the bottoms east of the house and having a quarantine sign on the front door because of scarlet fever.

Astaire maintained he never was enrolled at Chambers Dancing Academy at 24th and Farnam streets, only Adele. She was featured in school recitals and was a local prodigy.

While he believed he was able to walk on his toes at 4, it more likely was to show off than inspired by ambitions of dancing.

Adele has real talent, my father said, and maybe Fred will come around to it someday, too.

Both Astaires attended Kellom Grade School when it was at 1115 N. 22nd St. Fred was enrolled in kindergarten on May 16, 1904, following a common practice of families sending children to school on or shortly after their fifth birthday even if it fell midterm.

In 1967, a neighbor recalled she would walk the Austerlitz children to school because Ann wanted an older child to take them because a streetcar track crossing on 20th Street was required.

They were such cute kids. Fred was such a tiny little fellow, Lydia Landen of Tekamah, Nebraska, told World-Herald columnist Robert McMorris. When I called at their home they would be practicing their dance steps on the brown-colored linoleum-covered kitchen floor. Mrs. Austerlitz would be at the piano in the front room.

The Austerlitzes were prosperous enough that Ann and the children spent the summer of 1904 at a hotel at Lake Okoboji.

It was Jan. 21, 1905, when Adele was 8 and Fred 5, when they left Omaha for good. As recorded in a World-Herald society-page item, Ann was taking them to New York City to enter the Alvienne School of Dramatic Art.

They were graduates in 10 months. Immediately they went on the New Jersey vaudeville circuit as the Astaires. Their stage name is said to have been derived from kinsmen of Alsace-Lorraine called L Astaire.

When they appeared at Keiths Union Square Theater in the city, they were short-circuited, taken off-stage by the worlds first child protective agency. The Gerry Society insisted on by-the-book enforcement of the child labor law in Gotham.

Their first act, which moved onto the park circuit in Pennsylvania, was called In Dreamland. Reviews raved about the elaborate staging, which included expensive costumes and 200 electric light globes.

From the Atlantic City Daily Press in June 1906: The Astaires, a couple of real small children, do some mighty clever singing and dancing and they are also presenting a striking novelty in the shape of an electrical musical feature which is decidedly enjoyable.

Their first Omaha performances were in a weeklong engagement in December 1906 at the 15th Street Orpheum Theater, as they had joined the Orpheum circuit. They were fifth-billed, the Omaha vaudevillians who delighted the east, back to entertain their home folks.

At the Saturday matinee, instead of the customary bouquets of appreciation, a dog  a white Spitz  was passed to them over the footlights. The World-Herald said their week was one of triumph.

Omaha kicked off their tour of the West, the act running afoul of child-labor laws again in Los Angeles. Ann Austerlitz protested, saying her children were allowed to perform in other California cities including Oakland, which had a similar law. Maybe she was misquoted in the Los Angeles Herald, but she claimed Freds age to be 13. He was nine.

The Astaires left vaudeville behind with their Broadway debut in 1917, in the patriotic review Over the Top. They were dance partners on Broadway and the London stage until they split in 1932. Adele retired from show business after marrying Lord Charles Cavendish.

Fred became a worldwide star, starting with his seven years at RKO making movies with Ginger Rogers. He twice announced he was retiring from dancing in films, not backing off from the second in 1957. Television specials and dramatic roles fleshed out his career.

The Astaires mother died of a stroke at Freds Beverly Hills home in 1975 at 96. Their father, who initially stayed behind, was with the family in New York City by 1920. He died in 1923 of heart failure and throat cancer at a sanitarium in Warnerville, Pennsylvania.

Adele, twice married, died in Scottsdale, Arizona, in 1981. Fred, also twice married, died in Los Angeles in 1987.

Astaire returned to Omaha rarely, the last time possibly in 1959 when he received an award from Mutual of Omaha, but always was protective of his hometown.

Say, whats the idea of pulling that Omaha gag? he told the writer of a Broadway play in 1928 that was a star vehicle for the Astaires.

People here will think Im plugging Omaha just because Adele and I were born there. Some of our friends back home might think its a knock.

Definitely a subject Fred Astaire didnt dance around.

150 Notable Nebraskans 2. Standing Bear 4. George Norris 5. William Jennings Bryan 6. John Neihardt 9. Charles Dawes 10. Ted Sorensen 11. J. Sterling Morton 12. Tom Osborne 13. John J. Pershing 14. Harold Edgerton 15. Loren Eiseley 16. Dick Cavett 17. Bob Kerrey 18. Henry Fonda 19. Roscoe Pound 20. Ernie Chambers 21. Bob Devaney 22. Crazy Horse 23. Susan La Flesche Picotte 24. Bob Gibson 25. Peter Kiewit 26. Marlon Brando 27. Charles Bessey 28. Louise Pound 29. George Beadle 30. Hartley Burr Alexander 31. Solomon Butcher 32. Bess Streeter Aldrich 33. Joyce Hall 34. Ted Kooser 35. Mari Sandoz 36. Robert Henri 37. Grover Cleveland Alexander 38. J.J. Exon 39. Alexander Payne 40. Daniel Freeman 42. Edith Abbott 43. Red Cloud 44. Darryl Zanuck 45. Chuck Hagel 46. Walter Behlen 47. Roger Welsch 48. Cliff Hillegass 49. Kay Orr 50. Ernst Lied 51. Grace Abbott 52. Terry Carpenter 53. Paul Johnsgard 54. Malcolm X 55. Robert Taylor 56. Harold Lloyd 57. Johnny Rodgers 58. Rose Blumkin 59. Harold Warp 60. Mike Johanns 61. Sandy Dennis 62. Chip Davis 63. Larry the Cable Guy 64. Walter Scott Jr. 65. Wright Morris 66. Gerald Ford 67. Gale Sayers 68. Virginia Smith 69. Clayton Anderson 70. Edwin Perkins 71. Matthew Sweet 72. Bob Boozer 73. Susette La Flesche Tibbles 74. Alvin Johnson 75. Father Edward Flanagan 76. Moses Kinkaid 77. Robert Furnas 78. Jeff Raikes 79. Joel Sartore 80. Donald Clifton 81. Sarah and George Joslyn 82. Robert Daugherty 83. Dwight Griswold 84. Nathan Gold 85. Ben Kuroki 86. William Petersen 87. Terry Pettit 88. Preston Love 89. Evelyn Brodstone Vestey 90. The Creightons 91. Grenville Dodge 92. Norman Geske 93. Frank Woods 94. J. Lee Rankin 95. Gordon MacRae 97. Mabel Lee 98. Weldon Kees 99. Howard Hanson 100. William 'Speedy Bill' Smith 101. Keith Jacobshagen 102. Mary Pipher 103. Andrew Higgins 104. Gilbert Hitchcock 105. Charles Gere 106. Jordan Larson 107. Ed Zorinsky 108. Dick Cheney 109. Roman Hruska 110. Gutzon Borglum 111. Dave Rimington 112. Thomas Rogers Kimball 113. Logan Fontenelle 114. Nick Nolte 115. James Coburn 116. Randy Meisner 117. Max Baer 118. Magic Slim 119. Carl Curtis 120. Seacrest Family 121. Gabrielle Union 123. Jonas Brandeis 124. Herman Cain 125. Paul Williams 126. Nicholas Sparks 127. Edward Ruscha 128. "Wahoo" Sam Crawford 129. Neal Hefti 130. Marg Helgenberger 131. Charlie Greene 132. Lee Simmons 133. Zager and Evans 134. James Valentine 135. Fred Seaton 136. John Falter 137. Aaron Douglas 138. Guy Chamberlin 139. Johnny Goodman 140. Norbert Tiemann 141. Victor Lewis 142. Reinhold Marxhausen 143. Michael Forsberg 144. Buddy Miles 145. "Gorgeous" George Wagner 146. Jack Van Berg 147. Mike Hill 148. Wynonie Harris 149. Swoosie Kurtz 150. Charles Starkweather
An 85-year-old man who had been incarcerated at the Nebraska State Penitentiary for nearly 50 years died Monday.

Leonard Svitak, 85, had been in the state's custody since Sept. 20, 1974, when he was sentenced to a term of 10 years to life for second-degree murder in Lancaster County.

Svitak was convicted of shooting and killing his ex-wife, 30-year-old Mary Svitak, at her north Lincoln home in March 1974, according to newspaper archives.

The two had been separated for three months when Svitak shot her with a .22 caliber rifle inside her mobile home following a dispute, according to the archives.

She was pronounced dead upon arrival at St. Elizabeth hospital and Svitak was arrested at the scene.

Mary Svitak was an employee of the State Welfare Department at the time of her death. Leonard Svitak was a welder.

Though his cause of death hasn't been determined, Svitak was being treated for a medical condition, the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said in a news release announcing his death.

A grand jury will be convened to conduct an investigation into his death, as required by state law whenever an inmate dies in state custody.

The inmates on Nebraskas death row and their crimes Jorge Galindo Erick F. Vela Jeffrey Hessler John L. Lotter Roy L. Ellis Marco E. Torres Jr. Nikko Jenkins Patrick Schroeder Aubrey Trail
MOUNT AIRY  After 40 years in Tinseltown, actor Daniel Roebuck knows a thing or two about entertaining people. Hes going back to his roots this holiday season by stepping onto the stage at Andy Griffith Playhouse for five performances of Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol.

Roebuck played Cliff Lewis alongside Andy Griffith in three seasons of Matlock. Since then he has appeared in numerous television and movie roles, including well-known titles, such as The Fugitive movie and the TV series Lost. Roebuck grew up in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where he began his acting career in theater. When he discovered the Andy Griffith Playhouse during a visit to Mount Airy for Mayberry Days, the idea struck him to return to the small-town stage.

We really fell in love with the community, Roebuck says. My wife, Tammy, and I have a heart for service, and the Surry Arts Council is an extraordinary organization that is bringing wonderful programming to the area.

Roebuck, who plays Ebenezer Scrooge, describes this interpretation of the classic Dickens story as funnier, taking a humorous approach while staying true to the original. This version also focuses on Scrooges need to repent of past wrongdoings on his road to redemption.

The show opens Dec. 9 at 3 p.m., and a meet-and-greet reception follows that performance. Other showtimes are: Dec. 10 and 17 at 3 p.m.; and Dec. 16 and 18 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25-$30. Admission to the reception is $35.

We want to make this a yearly tradition in Surry County, Roebuck says. Lets get people from all over North Carolina to say, Lets go to Mount Airy for a couple of days to enjoy Christmas there.

Additional holiday performances offered by the Surry Arts Council include Christmas with The Embers on Dec. 14, and Elkin Big Band Christmas Show on Dec. 21, all at Andy Griffith Playhouse.

To purchase tickets for A Christmas Carol and other shows, go to www.SurryArts.org or call 336-786-7998. For information on lodging, restaurants and other activities: www.YadkinValleyNC.com.
About the EnergyUnited Foundation

The EnergyUnited Foundation is a voluntary, member-funded non-profit organization supported by EnergyUniteds Operation Round-Up program. Nearly 85,000 EnergyUnited members choose to participate in the program by rounding up their electric bills each month. The maximum monthly contribution for an individual member with one account is 99 cents. Each of these contributions are pooled together in a single fund managed by the EnergyUnited Foundation to support needy individuals, families, and essential nonprofit organizations that complete an application explaining the reason and purpose for their requested grant.
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources

The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina  its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

The department manages more than 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the North Carolina Symphony, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.ncdcr.gov.
Rep. Jeff McNeely was first on Monday, and he hopes to be first next year when the election for the District 84 seat in the North Carolina House of Representatives is held, along with other races in Iredell County.

I always like to be one of the first ones. That comes with experience. I hope the good people of Iredell Co. want that experience working for them too, McNeely said.

The filing period for the 2024 elections began Monday at noon and ends on Dec. 15 at noon. Federal, state and local elections will be held next November.

Local races include the Iredell County Board of Commissioners, Iredell-Statesville Board of Education, three District Court judges seats, the Superior Court seat as well as district attorney.

The towns of Harmony and Love Valley will also be on the fall ballot. Both towns will see the mayor and multiple council seats elected.

For the General Assembly, the 37th Senate District is up for grabs and the three House seats  District 84, District 89 and District 95  will be on the ballot.

Other federal and state offices to be elected are the U.S. 10th Congressional District representative, governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state, state treasurer, state auditor, agriculture commissioner, superintendent of public instruction, labor commissioner and insurance commissioner.

The Iredell County Soil and Water Supervisor also will be elected next year, but filing for that office begins June 10 and ends July 5.

The primary will be held on March 5 and a second primary, if needed, will be held on May 14. The general election is Nov. 5.

Who has filed?

The following candidates have filed for the following offices as of noon Tuesday:

Iredell County Board of Commissioners: Beverly Maurice (D), Melissa Neader (R)

Iredell-Statesville Schools District 2: Kevin Angell (R), Natalie R. Ramos (D)

North Carolina House of Representatives District 84: Chris E. Gilbert (D), Jeff McNeely (R)

North Carolina House of Representatives District 95: Grey Mills (R)

North Carolina House of Representatives District 89: Mitchell Setzer (R)

District Attorney: Sarah Kirkman (R)

Iredell County Superior Court Judge: Joe Crosswhite (R)

Iredell County District Court Judge: Edward Hedrick IV

ID required

Iredell County Board of Elections Director Susie Jordan reminds voters that photo identification is required to vote.

According to the North Carolina State Board of Elections, drivers licenses are accepted, but there are other acceptable photo IDs. If a voter does not have one, they can get one free from their county board of elections or the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles.
Six new short films by Armenian filmmakers from around the world were showcased during the AGBU Arts Armenians in Film series at Lincoln Center in New York City in November. One of the featured films was The Mud by Armenian award-winning director and scriptwriter Vahan Grigoryan. The screening was followed by a panel discussion featuring the filmmakers, moderated by Theodore Bogosian, an award-winning filmmaker and TV producer. The filmmakers discussed their films, the inception of their ideas, and the creative bonds AGBU has made through this event.





"The Mud is my debut film, and it is a great honor and responsibility for me to have it featured during the New York and London screenings of 'Armenians in Film.' I express my gratitude to AGBU Arts for this invaluable opportunity. Presenting Armenian culture to the New Yorks demanding audience through a short film and receiving such positive and emotional feedback fills me, as a creator, with pride and motivates me to continue creating. I also want to emphasize the crucial role of the National Cinema Center of Armenia, which supported me in bringing my idea to life and producing the film. And his journey wouldn't have achieved such success without the invaluable contributions of my team, especially Director of Photography Suren Tadevosyan and Art Director Tigran Arakelyan, emphasized Vahan Grigoryan.



"The Mud" is a dramedy taking place in a village setting. The story revolves around the main characters wife, who, after returning home to discover her husband's muddy footprints on the floor and the white goose feathers inside, believes that an angel has entered their house. The narrative takes its development and has an unexpected ending.





As Vahan Grigoryan tells, at first glance, the film appears to present an Armenian rural story, but similar cases can be found anywhere in the world, whether a village or a city. "Such comedies happen everywhere; its a story related to humankind, which became even more evident to me when I saw the reaction of the New York audience to this very Armenian atmospheric movie. The audience reacted emotionally, particularly to the key episodes. The main idea revolves around how a person behaves when caught in a continuous trap of coincidences. They try to provide explanations in various situations, but with each explanation, another coincidence comes up.





I believe that over its eight years of activity, Armenians in Film has successfully identified and

encouraged new talents. We present this series of screenings in different countries in cooperation with prestigious cultural institutions. Armenian films are screened at distinguished venues, including Film at Lincoln Center, attended not only by Armenians but also by an international audience. This initiative aims to introduce the global audience to our film art, culture, mentality, history, and create new opportunities for cooperation. The films we screen are diverse in genres - from animated films to documentaries, science fiction - and in terms of geography and experience, from beginners to professionals ,-said Hayk Arsenyan, Director of AGBU Performing Arts Department.





Referring to the screened films, Teodore Poghosyan shared his impressions I've seen numerous films worldwide, particularly those by young and diverse filmmakers. I find that the technical quality and imagination of these content creators, spanning various genres and locations, are on a high level. Looking ahead, thanks to international streaming services and the internet, I anticipate an increase in Armenian producers in the future of filmmaking. In this context the role of AGBU is evident. Lastly, my generation of filmmakers is fortunate to have received support from the community. When I was in California, I got an AGBU scholarship, a crucial support that played a huge role in pursuing my way to become a filmmaker. This direct connection has not only shaped my personal journey but has also allowed me to connect with the next generation of filmmakers.



he other five films screened were Sunset by Kristine Khanamiryan, Dehatsi  I was Another Place by Tatiana Boudakian, Crossing the Blue by Victoria Aleksanyan, The Road  A dreamlike jazz piece on isolation and connection by Charlotte Montgomery featuring the Zela Margossian Quintet, and Stones by Arman Ayvazyan.

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Early last month, almost 600 American Flags were retired at the Floyd VFW by local scouts.

Flags that are deemed no longer serviceable are collected year round across the county at the post offices and the library. Those flags are stored at the VWF Post 7854 until they can be retired.

On Nov. 4, four scouts from Troop 36 and their adult assistants spent six hours folding every flag before retiring them by flame.

James Doran, a fellow scouter from Roanoke County, brought two incinerators to assist in processing the numerous poly flags while the few cotton flags were retired over a traditional campfire.

The hundreds of flags were reduced to a few handfuls of ash to be buried while the metal grommets were retained and given to the participants as a thank you.

The Boy Scouts of America recommends; "When the national flag is worn beyond repair, burn it thoroughly and completely on a modest, but blazing fire. This should be done in a simple manner with dignity and respect. Be sure the flag is reduced to ashes unrecognizable as a former flag."

The United States Flag Code states: The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.

Scouts who participated in the retiring were Asher B., Gavin J., Jayden C. and Bryce D. Adult participants included Rebbecca J. Geremy C., Michael G and James D.
The family has not been issued a death certificate, according to Zaman al-Wasl.

Marwan Hassan al-Hamad, a young resident of Mahjah in Daraa countryside, tragically succumbed to torture in Sednaya Military Prison nearly two years after his initial arrest.

The Ahrar Houran Gathering reported through its correspondent that the family of Hamad received the devastating news of his demise under torture at Sednaya military prison last Sunday.

The source revealed that Hamad had been a former member of the Free Army until the regime assumed control of the governorate in mid-2018 under a settlement agreement. He was subsequently apprehended by a group affiliated with the Military Security Branch in Mahjah, led by the so-called Qassem al-Hoshan

A close associate of Hamad disclosed that the family has not been issued a death certificate nor received the body of their son from the regime forces. The heart-wrenching news of his death reached them on Monday, as the victims brother attempted to visit him in detention.

It is a distressing pattern that the Assad regime frequently withholds the bodies of individuals who perish under torture in its prisons. Typically, the regime informs the victims family of the death, providing a death certificate displaying the date of demise and certain personal details, while remaining silent on the precise cause of death.

126 victims

The Violations Documentation Office of Ahrar Houran Gathering has meticulously documented 126 cases of individuals from the Daraa governorate who fell victim to torture in Syrian regime detention centers. This distressing trend has persisted since the regime assumed control of the governorate in July 2018, with the latest recorded incident dating back to October.

A recent report from the Syrian Network for Human Rights, released earlier this month, highlighted the regimes alarming practice of not officially recording the hundreds of thousands of citizens it has killed since March 2011 in the death records of the civil registry. The regime, it seems, exerts brutal control over the issuance of death certificates, a practice that extends beyond those killed by the Syrian regime to victims of various parties and the families of the missing and forcibly disappeared.

The report underscored that access to death certificates was not granted to all families of the deceased, as the regime authorities selectively issued them based on specific criteria established by the Syrian regime and its security services. Consequently, a significant majority of families find themselves unable to obtain these crucial documents, primarily due to the understandable fear of associating their names with individuals who were detained by the Syrian regime and subsequently killed under torturous circumstances. This chilling revelation points to the broader issues surrounding transparency, accountability, and human rights violations within the Syrian context.

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.
Korea decided to double the state inventory of urea for diesel vehicles to 12,000 tons and to release the current government reserves amid concerns over another urea supply crisis following China's recent export halt, the finance ministry said Wednesday.

The government also called on gas stations and distributors of urea solution to set a purchase limit to prevent panic buying, while vowing to have active consultations with China to resolve the issue, though Korea has urea inventory sufficient for 3.7 months, according to the Ministry of Economy and Finance.

Last week, China suspended customs procedures for urea shipments to Korea. Seoul officials have said the move appears to have been made due to tight supplies for domestic use in China, though it was not a formal export curb.

Urea is a type of nitrogen used to curb emissions in diesel cars and to make agricultural fertilizers, and China is the world's largest producer of the material.

During a meeting of the pan-government task force on key economic security items Wednesday, the government decided to double the state inventory of urea used for vehicles to 12,000 tons, enough for domestic use for two months, at an early date.

It also plans to provide some 2,000 tons of reserves with companies experiencing tight supplies.

"We've been closely monitoring the market situation, and no major disruptions have been reported in terms of urea supplies and prices, though some smaller and online distributors have reported shortages," a ministry official said.

The government is in consultation with domestic urea solution producers to boost inventories, and is expected to sign a contract as early as next week.

It also plans to ask for efforts by sellers of urea solution, as well as truck drivers, to prevent a supply crisis, such as implementing a purchase limit on a voluntary basis.

"Most gas stations have already allowed customers to only buy up to three bottles of urea solution per purchase, and we think such measures will be helpful for some time," the official said.

Major companies have already secured alternative suppliers and are able to have additional shipments so that any repeat of the urea supply crisis seen in 2021 is unlikely, according to officials.

In 2021, Korea suffered major disruptions to urea supplies, as China halted its exports amid a trade dispute with Australia.

The finance ministry also presented a set of measures to reduce the country's heavy dependence on China.

According to government data, Korea imported more than 90 percent of urea for industrial purposes from China this year, rising from 71.8 percent the previous year.

The proportion of Chinese urea for fertilizers also rose from 18.3 percent in 2022 to 22.5 percent this year, the data showed.

For the goal, the government is reviewing giving subsidies to companies that seek to diversify supply channels of urea.

"Our reliance on China for industry urea had fallen to about 70 percent last year after the supply crisis in 2021. But companies, particularly smaller ones, again resorted to imports from China as the chemical from China is cheap, given logistics expenses, among other reasons," an industry ministry official said.

"Solutions in structural terms are now needed, and the government will discuss the issue with companies to hedge against risks," the official said.

Some 26 billion won ($19.8 million) from the budget per year is expected to be required for the subsidies for urea supplies for industrial purposes, he added.

Korea brings in urea from Qatar, Vietnam, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia, in addition to China, and it can secure the imports from more than 12 nations, according to the industry ministry.

China is yet to give an official explanation to Korea regarding the recent export delay, and the Seoul government vowed to continue close talks with China through various communication channels.

The Chinese side has said that it has recently experienced a shortage in urea supplies due to a fall in production and rising demand, officials here said. (Yonhap)
Rama Pashu Aahar (P) Ltd. Vs ACIT (ITAT Delhi)

Introduction: The recent decision in the cross-appeals between Rama Pashu Aahar (P) Ltd. and the Assistant Commissioner of Income Tax (ACIT) by the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) Delhi sheds light on the critical aspect of Document Identification Number (DIN) in assessment orders. The appellant contested the validity of the assessment order for the assessment year 2017-18, emphasizing the absence of a DIN.

Background: The appeal, labeled ITA No. 1456/Del/2021, brought forth an additional ground challenging the assessment orders validity due to the absence of a DIN. The appellant argued that the order, dated 31.12.2019, violated Circular No. 19/2019 issued by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), which mandated the use of DIN in all communications issued by income-tax authorities.

Legal Framework: Circular No. 19/2019, dated 14.08.2019, mandated the use of a computer-generated DIN in all communications issued by income-tax authorities after October 1, 2019. It provided exceptions under certain circumstances where manual communication was allowed, subject to recording reasons in writing and obtaining prior approval from Chief Commissioner/Director General of Income-tax. The circular explicitly stated that any communication not conforming to these conditions would be treated as invalid and deemed to have never been issued.

Appellants Argument: The appellant, relying on Circular No. 19/2019, argued that the assessment order was invalid as it did not contain a DIN. The appellant highlighted that the circular required specific information, including reasons for manual communication, to be recorded in the body of the order along with the approval number and date from the Chief Commissioner/Director General of Income-tax. The appellant referred to a decision of the Honble jurisdictional High Court in CIT vs. Brandix Mauritius Holdings Ltd. to support their contention.

Revenues Defense: The revenue, represented by the learned departmental representative, contended that technical issues led to the inability to generate a DIN during the communication of the assessment order. However, approval was obtained from the Chief Commissioner of Income-tax on 31.12.2019, and the DIN was subsequently generated on 19.01.2020, within the stipulated 15 working days as per CBDT Circular No. 19/2019.

ITATs Analysis and Decision: The ITAT carefully examined the circulars provisions and observed that the assessment order lacked a computer-generated DIN. While the revenue claimed compliance by generating the DIN subsequently, the ITAT emphasized that the circular required specific details to be recorded in the assessment order itself. Since the reasons for manual communication and the approval details were absent in the order, the ITAT held that the order did not conform to the conditions of the circular.

Precedent and Binding Nature of Circulars: The ITAT referred to the decision in CIT vs. Brandix Mauritius Holdings Ltd., where the Honble Delhi High Court had held that circulars issued by the CBDT under Section 119 of the Income Tax Act carry statutory force and are binding on subordinate authorities. The Court had emphasized that circulars cannot be side-stepped, and any communication not in conformity with the circulars provisions would be treated as invalid.

Conclusion: In light of the above analysis, the ITAT declared the assessment order invalid, deeming it to have never been issued. The decision emphasized the binding nature of circulars issued by the CBDT and the importance of compliance with their provisions. Consequently, the appeal by Rama Pashu Aahar (P) Ltd. was allowed, and the Revenues appeal was dismissed. This case sets a precedent underscoring the significance of adhering to procedural requirements laid down in circulars for the validity of income tax assessments.

FULL TEXT OF THE ORDER OF ITAT DELHI

Captioned cross appeals arise out of order dated 23.09.2021 of learned Commissioner of Income-tax (Appeals)-26, New Delhi pertaining to assessment year 2017-18.

2. In assessees appeal, being ITA No. 1456/Del/2021, an additional ground has been raised challenging the validity of the assessment order, as it does not contain a Document Identification Number (DIN). Since, the issue raised in the additional ground is a purely legal and jurisdictional issue going to the root of the matter and it can be decided without making fresh investigation into the facts, we are inclined to admit the additional ground.

3. Before us, learned Counsel appearing for the assessee drew our attention to the assessment order dated 31.12.2019 passed u/s. 143(3) of the Act and submitted that the assessment order does not contain a DIN. Drawing our attention to Circular No. 19/2019 dated 14.08.2019 issued by the Central Board of Direct Taxes(CBDT), he submitted, it has been mandated that after 1st day of October, 2019, no communication shall be issued by any Income-tax authority unless a computer generated DIN has been communicated and is quoted in such communication. He submitted, though, the aforesaid circular provides that under certain exceptional circumstances, the concerned Income-tax authority is permitted to issue the communication manually, but he has to record reasons in writing and obtain prior written approval of Chief Commissioner/Director General of Income-tax for issuing the communication manually without DIN. He submitted, such reason not only has to be recorded in the body of the communication, but it must also contain the date and number of approval of Chief Commissioner/Director General of Income-tax. Further, he submitted, the CBDT circular further makes it clear that any communication not in conformity with the conditions specified in the circular, shall be treated as invalid and shall be deemed to have never been issued. He submitted, in the manually communicated assessment order without containing DIN, the Assessing Officer has not recorded the reasons nor has mentioned the approval number and date of Chief Commissioner/Director General of Income-tax. Thus, he submitted, in terms with the CBDT circular, assessment order has to be declared as invalid and should be deemed to have never been issued. In support of such contention, learned Counsel relied upon a decision of Honble jurisdictional High Court in the case of CIT vs. Brandix Mauritius Holdings Ltd. in ITA No. 163/2023 vide judgment dated 20.03.2023. Additionally, he relied upon a number of judicial precedents submitted in the legal compilation.

4. Drawing our attention to paragraph No. 7.4 of the impugned order of learned Commissioner (Appeals), learned departmental representative submitted that due to certain technical issues at the time of communicating the assessment order, DIN could not be generated. However, he submitted, after obtaining approval of Chief Commissioner of Income-tax on 31.12.2019, the Assessing Officer has generated the DIN on 19.01.2020 which is within 15 working days as per paragraph No. 5 of CBDT Circular No. 19/2019 dated 14.08.2019. Thus, he submitted, the Assessing Officer has fully complied with the CBDT circular. Therefore, the assessment order cannot be treated as invalid.

5. We have considered rival submissions in the light of decisions relied upon and perused the materials on record. On a careful scrutiny of the impugned assessment order communicated to the assessee manually, it is transparent that it does not contain any computer generated DIN. It is the case of the assessee that in absence of DIN, the Assessing Officer could have manually communicated the assessment order only after recording reasons in writing in the body of the order and also mentioning the number and date of approval granted by Chief Commissioner/Director General of Income-tax permitting the Assessing Officer for manually communicating the order without DIN. Whereas, it is the case of the Revenue that the Assessing Officer has not only obtained proper approval of the Chief Commissioner of Income-tax for manually communicating the assessment order but has also generated the DIN within the specified time limit of 15 days as per Circular No. 19/2019 dated 14.08.2019. To have a better understanding of the issue, it is necessary to look into the contents of Circular No. 19/2019 dated 14.08.2019 issued by the CBDT :

Circular No. 19 /2019

Government of India

Ministry of Finance

Department of Revenue

Central Board of Direct Taxes

New Delhi, dated the 14th of August, 2019

Subject: Generation/Allotment/Quoting of Document Identification Number in Notice/Order/Summons/letter/correspondence issued by the Income-tax Department  reg.

With the launch of various e-governance initiatives, income-tax Department is moving toward total computerization of its work. This has led to a significant improvement in delivery of services and has also brought greater transparency in the functioning of the tax- administration. Presently, almost all notices and orders are being generated electronically on the Income fax Business Application (ITBA) platform. However, it has been brought to the notice of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (the Board) that there have been some instances in which the notice, order, summons, letter and any correspondence (hereinafter referred to as communication) were found to have been issued manually, without maintaining a proper audit trail of such communication.

2. in order to prevent such instances and to maintain proper audit trail of all communication, the Board in exercise of power under section 119 of the income-tax Act, 1961 (hereinafter referred to as the Act), has decided that no communication shall be issued by any income- tax authority relating to assessment, appeals, orders, statutory or otherwise, exemptions, enquiry, investigation, verification of information, penalty, prosecution, rectification, approval etc, to the assessee or any other person, on or after the 1SI day of October, 2019 unless a computer-generated Document Identification Number (DIN) has been allotted and is duly quoted in the body of such communication.

3. In exceptional circumstances such as, 

(i) when there are technical difficulties in generating/allotting/quoting the DIN and issuance of communication electronically;, or

(ii) when communication regarding enquiry, verification etc. is required to be issued by an income-tax authority, who is outside the office, tor discharging, his Official duties: or

(iii) when due to delay in PAN migration, PAN is lying with nor.- jurisdictional Assessing Officer; or

(iv) when PAN of assesses is not available and where a proceeding under the Act (other than verification under section 131 or section 133 of the Act) is sought to be initiated: or

(v) When the functionality to issue communication is net available in the system,

the communication may be issued manually but only after recording reasons in writing in the file and with prior written approval of the Chief Commissioner / Director General of income-tax. In cases where manual communication is required to be issued due to delay in PAN migration, the proposal seeking approval for issuance of manual communication shall include the reason for delay in PAN migration. The communication issued under aforesaid circumstances shall stale the fact that the communication is issued manually without a DIN and the date of obtaining of the written approval of the Chief Commissioner / Director General of Income-Tax for issue of manual communication in the following format-

 .. This communication issues manually without a DIN on account of reason/reasons given in para 3(i)/3(ii)/3(iii)/3(iv)/3(v) of the CBDT Circular No dated (strike off those which are not applicable) and with the approval of the Chief Commissioner / Director General of Income Tax vide number . dated .

4. Any communication which is not in conformity with Para-2 and Para-3 above, shall be treated as invalid and shall be deemed to have never been issued.

5. The communication issued manually in the three situations specified in para 3- (i), (ii) or (iii) above shall have to be regularised within 15 working days of its issuance, by 

i. uploading the manual communication on the System.

ii. compulsorily generating the DIN on the System;

iii. communicating the DIN so generated to the assessee/any other person as per electronically generated pro-forma available on the System.

6. An intimation of issuance of manual communication for the reasons mentioned in para 3(v) shall be sent to the Principal Director General of Income-tax (Systems) within seven days from the date of its issuance.

7. Further, in all pending assessment proceedings, where notices were issued manually, prior to issuance of this Circular, the income-tax authorities shall identify such cases and shall upload the notices in these cases on the Systems by 31st October, 2019.

8. Hindi version to follow.

Sd/-

(Sarita Kumari)

Director (ITA, II) CBDT

(F. No. 225/95/2019-1TA.H)

Copy lo:-

i. PS to FM/OSD to FM/PS to MoS(F)/OSD to MoS(F)

ii. PS to Secretary (Revenue)

iii. Chairman, CBDT & All Members. CBDT

iv. All Pr. CCslT/Pr. DsGIT

v. All Joint Secretaries/CslT, CBDT

vi. C&AG

vii. CIT (M&TP), Official Spokesperson of CBDT

viii. O/o Pr. DGIT(Systems) for uploading on official website

ix. Addl.CIT (Database Cell) for uploading on the departmental website

Sd/-

(Sarita Kumari)

Director (ITA, II) CBDT

6. A reading of the aforesaid circular makes it clear that the object behind bringing the circular is for creating an audit trail. In paragraph 2, it has been very clearly mentioned that no communication shall be issued by any Income-tax authority relating to assessment, appeals, orders, statutory or otherwise, exemptions, enquiry, investigation, verification of information, penalty, prosecution, rectification, approval etc. to the assessee or any other person, on or after the 1st day of October, 2019 unless a computer generated DIN has been allotted and is duly quoted in the body of such communication. Paragraph 3 of the circular carves out certain exceptions to paragraph 2 by providing that under certain exceptional circumstances, enumerated in clause (i) to (v) of paragraph 3, the communication may be issued manually but only after recording reasons in writing not only in the file and with prior written approval of the Chief Commissioner/Director General of Income-tax, but the communication issued manually in such circumstances must also state the reasons why communication is issued manually without a DIN and must also mention the date and number of written approval of the Chief Commissioner/Director General of Income-tax for issuing manual communication. In fact, in paragraph 3 of the aforesaid circular, the format for recording such reasons has been specified. Paragraph 4 of the circular makes it clear that any communication issued, which is not in conformity with paragraph 2 and paragraph 3 of the circular, shall be treated as invalid and shall be deemed to have never been issued.

7. It is fairly well settled, a circular issued u/s. 119 of the Act has statutory force and is binding on subordinate authorities working under the CBDT. A perusal of the impugned assessment order makes it clear that in the body of the assessment order, the Assessing Officer has neither recorded the reasons for issuing the assessment order manually without DIN nor the date and number of approval of the Chief Commissioner/Director General of Income-tax. Therefore, even assuming that the Assessing Officer might have generated the DIN or had obtained approval of the concerned authority, however, since he has not incorporated the reasons of issuing the assessment order manually without DIN and date and number of approval in the body of assessment order, it does not comply with the conditions of paragraph 3 of the extant circular. Thus, in such a situation, as per paragraph 4 of the said circular, the assessment order has to be treated as invalid and shall be deemed to have never been issued.

8. Pertinently, while dealing with an identical issue in case of CIT vs. Brandix Mauritius Holdings Ltd. (supra), Honble jurisdictional High Court has held as under :

12. We have heard learned counsel for the parties. The present appeal is preferred under Section 260A of the Act. The Courts mandate, thus, is to consider whether or not a substantial question of law arises for consideration.

12.1 As noted above, the impugned order has not been passed on merits.

13. The Tribunal has applied the plain provisions of the 2019 Circular, based on which, it has allowed the appeal preferred by the respondent/assessee.

14. The broad contours of the 2019 Circular have been adverted to by us hereinabove.

14.1 Insofar as the instant case is concerned, admittedly, the draft assessment order was passed on 30.12.2018.

15. The respondent/assessee had filed its objections qua the same, which were disposed of by the Dispute Resolution Panel [DRP] via order dated 20.09.2019.

16. The final assessment order was passed by the Assessing Officer (AO) on 15.10.2019, under Section 147/144(C)( 13)/143(3) of the Act. Concededly, the final assessment order does not bear a DIN. There is nothing on record to show that the appellant/revenue took steps to demonstrate before the Tribunal that there were exceptional circumstances, as referred to in paragraph 3 of the 2019 Circular, which would sustain the communication of the final assessment order manually, albeit, without DIN.

16.1 Given this situation, clearly paragraph 4 of the 2019 Circular would apply.

17. Paragraph 4 of the 2019 Circular, as extracted hereinabove, decidedly provides that any communication which is not in conformity with paragraph 2 and 3 shall be treated as invalid and shall be deemed to have never been issued. The phraseology of paragraph 4 of the 2019 Circular fairly puts such communication, which includes communication of assessment order, in the category of communication which are non-est in law.

17.1 It is also well established that circulars issued by the CBDT in exercise of its powers under Section 119 of the Act are binding on the revenue.

17.2 The aforementioned principle stands enunciated in a long line of judgements, including the Supreme Courts judgment rendered in K.P. Varghese v. Income Tax Officer, Ernakulam and Anr., (1981) 4 SCC 173. The relevant extracts are set forth hereafter:

12. But the construction which is commending itself to us does not rest merely on the principle of contemporanea expositio. The two circulars of the Central Board of Direct Taxes to which we have just referred are legally binding on the Revenue and this binding character attaches to the two circulars even if they be found not in accordance with the correct interpretation of sub-section (2) and they depart or deviate from such construction. It is now well settled as a result of two decisions of this Court, one in Navnitlal C. Javeri v. K.K. Sen [AIR 1965 SC 1375 : (1965) 1 SCR 909 : 56 ITR 198] and the other in Ellerman Lines Ltd. v. CIT[(1979) 4 SCC 565] that circulars issued by the Central Board of Direct Taxes under Section 119 of the Act are binding on all officers and persons employed in the execution of the Act even if they deviate from the provisions of the Act. The question which arose in Navnitlal C. Javeri case [AIR 1965 SC 1375 : (1965) 1 SCR 909 : 56 ITR 198] was in regard to the constitutional validity of Sections 2(6-A)(e) and 12(1-B) which were introduced in the Indian Income Tax Act, 1922 by the Finance Act, 1955 with effect from April 1, 1955. These two sections provided that any payment made by a closely held company to its shareholders by way of advance or loan to the extent to which the company possesses accumulated profits shall be treated as dividend taxable under the Act and this would include any loan or advance made in any previous year relevant to any assessment year prior to Assessment Year 1955-56, if such loan or advance remained outstanding on the first day of the previous year relevant to Assessment Year 1955-56. The constitutional validity of these two sections was assailed on the ground that they imposed unreasonable restrictions on the fundamental right of the assessee under Article 1 9(1)(f) and (g) of the Constitution by taxing outstanding loans or advances of past years as dividend. The Revenue however relied on a circular issued by the Central Board of Revenue under Section 5(8) of the Indian Income Tax Act, 1922 which corresponded to Section 119 of the present Act and this circular provided that if any such outstanding loans or advances of past years were repaid on or before June 30, 1955, they would not be taken into account in determining the tax liability of the shareholders to whom such loans or advances were given. This circular was clearly contrary to the plain language of Section 2(6-A)(e) and Section 12(1-B), but even so this Court held that it was binding on the Revenue and since:

past transactions which would normally have attracted the stringent provisions of Section 12(1-B) as it was introduced in 1955, were substantially granted exemption from the operation of the said provisions by making it clear to all the companies and their shareholders that if the past loans were genuinely refunded to the companies they would not he taken into account under Section 12(1  B), 

Sections 2(6-A)(e) and 12(1-B) did not suffer from the vice of unconstitutionality. This decision was followed in Ellerman Lines case [(1972) 4 SCC 474 : 1974 SCC (Tax) 304 : 82 ITR 913] where referring to another circular issued by the Central Board of Revenue under Section 5(8) of the Indian Income Tax Act, 1922 on which reliance was placed on behalf of the assessee, this Court observed:

Now, coming to the question as to the effect of instructions issued under Section 5(8) of the Act, this Court observed in Navnitlal C. Javeri v. K.K. Sen, Appellate Assistant Commissioner, Bombay [AIR 1965 SC 1375 : (1965) 1 SCR 909 : 56 ITR 198] :

It is clear that a circular of the kind which was issued by the Board would be binding on all officers and persons employed in the execution of the Act under Section 5(8) of the Act. This circular pointed out to all the officers that it was likely that some of the companies might have advanced loans to their shareholders as a result of genuine transactions of loans, and the idea was not to affect such transactions and not to bring them within the mischief of the new provision. 

The directions given in that circular clearly deviated from the provisions of the Act, yet this Court held that the circular was binding on the Income Tax Officer. 

The two circulars of the Central Board of Direct Taxes referred to above must therefore be held to be binding on the Revenue in the administration or implementation of sub-section (2) and this subsection must be read as applicable only to cases where there is understatement of the consideration in respect of the transfer. 

[Emphasis is ours]

17.3 Also see the following observations of a coordinate bench in Back Office IT Solutions Pvt. Ltd. v. Union of India, 2021 SCC OnLine Del 2742, in the context of the impact of circulars issued by the revenue:

24.In this context, tax administrators have to bear in mind the well- established dicta that circulars issued by the statutory authorities are binding on them, although, they cannot dictate the manner in which assessment has to be carried out in a particular case. A Circular cannot be side-stepped causing prejudice to the assessee by bringing to naught the object for which it is issued. [See: K.P. Varghese vs. Income-tax Officer 1, [1981] 7 Taxman 13 (SC); Also see: UCO Bank, Calcutta v. Commissioner of Income Tax, W.B., (1999) 4 SCC 599], 

18. The argument advanced on behalf the appellant/revenue, that recourse can be taken to Section 292B of the Act, is untenable, having regard to the phraseology used in paragraph 4 of the 2019 Circular.

19. The object and purpose of the issuance of the 2019 Circular, as indicated hereinabove, inter alia, was to create an audit trail. Therefore, the communication relating to assessments, appeals, orders, etcetera which find mention in paragraph 2 of the 2019 Circular, albeit without DIN, can have no standing in law, having regard to the provisions of paragraph 4 of the 2019 Circular.

20. The logical sequitur of the aforesaid reasoning can only be that the Tribunals decision to not sustain the final assessment order dated 15.10.20 19, is a view that cannot call for our interference.

21. As noted above, in the instant appeal all that we are required to consider is whether any substantial question of law arises for consideration, which, inter alia, would require the Court to examine whether the issue is debatable or if there is an alternate view possible. Given the language employed in the 2019 Circular, there is neither any scope for debate not is there any leeway for an alternate view.

21.1 We find no error in the view adopted by the Tribunal. The Tribunal has simply applied the provisions of the 2019 Circular and thus, reached a conclusion in favour of the respondent/assessee.

9. Thus, keeping in view the aforesaid observations of the Honble Delhi High Court and in terms of paragraph 4 of the circular No. 19/2019 dated 14.08.2019, we have no hesitation in holding that the impugned assessment order is invalid and shall be deemed to have never been issued. Accordingly, we quash the impugned assessment order. As a natural corollary, the order of ld. Commissioner (Appeals) is set aside.

10. In view of our decision on the additional ground, rest of the grounds raised by the assessee have become academic. Hence, there is no need to adjudicate them. For the same reason, Revenues appeal in ITA No. 1862/Del/2021 has become infructuous and is dismissed.

11. In the result, assessees appeal is allowed as indicated above and Revenues appeal is dismissed.

Order pronounced in the open court on 30/05/2023.
No one was injured after a trailer off Oregon Way was consumed by flames Monday night in Longview.

Longview Fire Department responded to a structure fire 7:48 p.m. at Columbia Trailer Court on Oregon Way. One unoccupied trailer was consumed by the fire, but it did not spread to neighboring trailers and there were no injuries.
ARIEL  The fire chief of Cowlitz-Skamania Fire District 7 was fired Monday because he had an extramarital affair with a subordinate, the district reports.

Police report the subordinates spouse later killed himself after discovering the affair.

Fire Chief Keith Stuart was terminated due to an affair, Cowlitz-Skamania Commissioner Denny Parkhill said. Parkhill didn't provide any more information on the relationship.

Parkhill said he resigned Monday in protest of Stuarts dismissal but would not say why.

A Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office report says Stuart was in a relationship with volunteer firefighter Nicole Wilson.

Stuart, who was initially placed on administrative leave, told The Daily News on Monday, he believed everything would turn out fine prior to the termination decision. Stuart declined to comment after he was fired.

Cowlitz County Sheriffs Office deputies were called to Wilsons home on Nov. 6 when she reported her husband was threatening to kill himself. She apparently was not home at the time of the call.

An incident report says Wilson also asked Stuart to check on her husband, and Stuart was the one who found Kamden Wilson dead in a bathtub with a gunshot wound to the head and pistol in his hand.

Nicole Wilson arrived soon after, followed by her mother Judy Salisbury, the fire departments crisis counselor, the sheriffs office report states. In November, Salisbury was also elected to the Cowlitz-Skamania Fire District 7 Board of Commissioners after running unopposed.

The sheriffs office report states Kamden Wilson learned about the affair from a text message between his wife and Stuart. The Wilsons discussed divorce but decided to work on the relationship. On Nov. 6, he texted his wife that he cant go on without her, which prompted her call to 911.

Kamden Wilson was a U.S. Navy veteran and 100% medically disabled, Nicole Wilson told deputies about her husband. She said he was prescribed anxiety medicine but didnt take them on Nov. 6.

How to seek help If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988 or text SAVE to the Crisis Text Line at 741741. If there is immediate danger, dial 911. The Washington state Health Care Authority provides resources for mental health, addiction and other behavioral health issues on its website at www.hca.wa.gov.

Although Stuart was separated from his wife during his affair, he still lived with her and was married, states the report.

The chief is the only paid position at the fire department headquartered at 11670 Lewis River Rd. in Ariel, according to the districts website. The district is located in Cowlitz and Skamania counties, with two stations in Ariel, one in Cougar and another in Amboy.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to clarify information attributed to Cowlitz-Skamania Commissioner Denny Parkhill.

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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to enlist shooters to kill more than 500,000 barred owls over the next 30 years in the Pacific Northwest to preserve habitat for northern spotted owls, a protected species.

Barred owls are native to the East Coast but since the 1950s have been expanding their range in the Northwest. They are relentless predators who eat anything that moves. They will yank worms from the ground and salamanders out from under rocks. Nail birds on the wing and anything in the water, from fish to snails to crayfish and frogs. Even slugs are on the menu.

They are also bigger, more aggressive and more territorial than the northern spotted owl, posing a threat to their survival as a species, which is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

Now the federal government is detailing a rescue plan.

The goal of a draft environmental impact statement for the agencys barred owl reduction program is to take out the owls in the northern spotted owls range in Washington and Oregon and to focus on heading off expansion of the barred owl into the range of the California spotted owl.

Assuming complete implementation of the proposal, an initial cull of about 20,000 barred owls would occur in the first year. Then, an annual reduction of 13,397 birds a year in the first decade of the program; 16,303 a year in the second decade and 17,390 birds each year in the third decade, in parts of Washington, Oregon and California  11 to 14 million acres in all.

The weapon of choice would be a large-bore shotgun and night scopes as needed for work in darkness or low light. When gunfire is too dangerous near people, capture and euthanasia would be substituted.

Any landowner or land manager may ask the agency to let them remove the owls under the agencys protocol, training specifications and permit.

The removal season is recommended during late spring through midsummer and fall. Shooters are directed to lure the owls with a recording of another owls call. When a barred owl comes within 30 yards and is stationary, they would shoot to kill.

There is not much time left for the northern spotted owl, the agency concluded. Populations in study areas throughout the owls range have declined from 35% to more than 80% over the past two decades. California spotted owls, which the service proposed for endangered species listing earlier this year, face a similar risk from barred owl competition as it expands southward.

Everywhere the spotted owl can live and thrive, barred owls can thrive and do even better, said Katherine Fitzgerald, northern spotted owl recovery lead for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, based in Portland. They are still invading, and they are not done.

A declining species

Much has been done to try to rescue the northern spotted owl, the poster animal of the campaign to save the old-growth forests of the Pacific Northwest. The owl was listed as a threatened species in 1990. Then, in 1994, a federal judge approved the Northwest Forest Plan, devised under the Clinton administration, to set aside some 24 million acres of old-growth forests on federal land. The multispecies protection plan was intended to preserve habitat for the spotted owl on federal lands in the places scientists deemed most important for its survival, from Washington to California.

The owl depends on old-growth forests where its primary prey  small mammals that thrive in the complex, unique environment of old growth forests  include flying squirrels and tree voles.

But the owl, already greatly reduced in numbers by logging before the Northwest Forest Plan, faces continued habitat loss from wildfire and logging on unprotected lands. And now, it is mortally threatened by a devastating, invading competitor.

Barred owls were first documented in British Columbia in 1959 and in Washington, Oregon and California in the 1970s. Today, there are well over 100,000 barred owls in the northern spotted owls territory in Washington, Oregon and Northern California, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Theories as to why the barred owl is now here vary. But the general picture includes the alteration of the original landscape and killing and removal of its Native people and wildlife by settler colonizers.

Exactly because the barred owl is now so pervasive, some experts think the kill program is madness.

Once you start, you can never stop, said Eric Forsman, a leading spotted owl expert whose research while he worked at the U.S. Forest Service informed the Northwest Forest Plan. Forsman helped map the forests set aside in the plan and knows personally individual northern spotted owl nest sites in trees that have since burned in wildfires. He knows prime habitat now bereft of spotted owls because of all the human-caused threats to the owls existence.

He sees nothing but doom ahead for the species he devoted his career to, whether or not the barred owl is gunned down to save it.

What I think is going to happen is in most of these areas, spotted owls are going to eventually, in fact fairly soon, go extinct. There simply will be none left, Forsman said.

It makes me incredibly sad.

An owl so calm

For Robin Bown, a biologist and barred owl management strategy lead for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Portland, spotted owls were the birds that spoiled her for working with any other animal. They were just so calm, so unafraid of humans, she once banded a spotted owl as it slept in her lap. The joke among biologists is that spotted owls have Valium for blood.

Bown acknowledges the enormous scope and long haul the agency is proposing, beginning as soon as spring of 2025. People can always terminate the program, but if you dont do the program, you wont have spotted owls, Bown said.

Every five years, the service does an analysis to determine how northern populations of the spotted owl are doing. Free fall is the only description that fits: The last report in 2021 showed significant population change in every single one of the study areas, showing that more than 75% of the population that was there in the 1990s was gone.

Because the owl is a federally listed species, the agency is obligated to do everything it can legally and ethically to recover spotted owl populations, said Kessina Lee, state supervisor for the Oregon office of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The goal is not to kill every barred owl in the West but to strategically take pressure off spotted owls where possible. At the most, about 30% of the barred owl population in the range of the northern spotted owl would be killed. We know we cant fully eradicate them, but we know we can create [refuge] areas with much lower barred owl density that allows spotted owls to survive and thrive, Lee said.

In four study areas in Oregon, Washington and northern California, killing barred owls under an agency research study brought spotted owls to almost stable populations, whereas in a neighboring control population, spotted owl populations declined by 12%.

The agencys experts are confident scaling the pilot up now to knock back the barred owl invasion can give the northern spotted owl a chance at recovery.

We know we can make a difference. Can it be done? The answer is yes, Lee said.

Not that selling the public on this will be easy.

Are we going to do more harm than good? Do we really want a bunch of people in the woods shooting at what are otherwise protected birds? said Bob Sallinger, executive director of Bird Conservation Oregon, a nonprofit he started after retiring from 30 years of bird advocacy at Portland Audubon.

There, he fought hard against the program run by the Corps of Engineers to kill cormorants eating protected salmon in the Columbia River. I nearly always opposed these sorts of programs, Sallinger said. But on this one, he is still making up his mind.

I do put the highest priority on preventing extinction, and there is science that shows us this is probably necessary, Sallinger said. But this is really a no-win, awful situation we created for ourselves. It is appalling we have to consider these kinds of measures, and incredibly sad.
The Tacoma City Council voted Tuesday to ban cat declawing, except when conducted by a licensed veterinarian for a therapeutic purpose.

The move will make Tacoma the first city in Washington to outlaw the procedure known medically as feline onychectomy.

Leading up to the vote, Councilmember John Hines said the time was right to choose cats, not couches, referring to cat owners who have their pets declawed in order to protect their furniture from being scratched.

Tacoma will join a number of other U.S. cities and states in taking the step, including San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, Washington, D.C., New York and Maryland, according to a City Council news release after Tuesdays meeting that described declawing as inhumane. Many countries around the globe have banned declawing, as well.

Washington has one of the highest rates of cat ownership in the U.S., and there are about 50,000 household cats in Tacoma, according to a council memo that pointed to products like nail trimmers, scratching posts, nail covers and furniture protectors as safe alternatives to declawing, also mentioning that animal trainers can help deal with cat behaviors.

Im incredibly proud that the City Council has passed this ban on nontherapeutic cat declawing and that Tacoma takes animal welfare issues seriously. We have received an incredible outpouring of support from the community for this ban, Hines said in the news release after sponsoring the ordinance with colleagues Olgy Diaz and Sarah Rumbaugh.

It is important that people understand that declawing a cat is painful and traumatic for the animal, he said. We simply cannot allow cats to be subjected to this procedure without a medical reason.

Declawing is a major surgery where a cats claws and third phalanges (the toe bones that the claws grow out of) are amputated, according to the councils news release, which compared it to amputating human fingers at their knuckles. The procedure can result in paw pain, infection, nerve damage and disability, impairing a cats ability to walk properly while also negatively impacting a cats emotional well-being, the release said.

The procedure can be medically necessary in certain cases, like when a cat has a cancerous tumor or has severely injured a paw. But Tacomas ban wont interfere with surgeries like that, the councils release said.

The new ordinance will take effect March 31, 2024, and violations will be considered civil infractions carrying a penalty of up to $250. The council considered making violations a crime, but a crime could be difficult to enforce and raise equity concerns, the councils memo said.

The council got interested in the issue after a resident shared about negative experiences with declawing, the memo said.

The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County supported the ban, comparing declawing to the docking of dog ears and tails, which is illegal in Washington. Calling herself an avid pet lover and former cat mom, Diaz said the ban will stop the animal cruelty caused by cat declawing.
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Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey attends the biannual Financial Stability Report press conference, at the Bank of England in London, Wednesday Dec. 6, 2023. Credit: Hannah McKay/Pool via AP

The Bank of England, which oversees financial stability in the U.K., said Wednesday that it will make an assessment next year about the risks posed by artificial intelligence and machine learning.

In its half-yearly Financial Stability Review, the bank said it was getting advice about the potential implications stemming from the adoption of AI and machine learning in the financial services sector, which accounts for around 8% of the British economy and has deep-rooted global connections.

The bank's Financial Policy Committee, which identifies and monitors risks, said it and other authorities would seek to ensure that the U.K. financial system is resilient to risks that may arise from widespread use of AI and machine learning.

"We obviously have to go into AI with our eyes open," bank Gov. Andrew Bailey said at a press briefing. "It is something that I think we have to embrace, it is very important and has potentially profound implications for economic growth, productivity and how economies are shaped going forward."

Over the past year, the potential benefits and threats of the new technologies have grown. Some observers have raised concerns over AI's as-yet-unknown dangers and have been calling for safeguards to protect people from its existential threats.

There is a global race to figure out how to regulate AI as OpenAI's ChatGPT and other chatbots exploded in popularity, with their ability to create human-like text and images. Leaders in the 27-nation European Union on Wednesday are trying to agree on world-first AI regulations.

"The moral of the story is if you're a firm using AI, you have to understand the tool you are using, that is the critical thing," Bailey said.

Admitting that he is "palpably not" an expert on AI, Bailey said the new technologies have "tremendous potential" and are not simply "a bag of risks."

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

When Jungsang Kim came to Duke University in 2004, he wasn't sure he'd live long enough to witness quantum advantage: the elusive moment when a quantum computer outperforms a classical computer to solve a real-world problem.

Back then, the emerging field was more theoretical. The experimental building blocks existed; scientists had already demonstrated atomic physics could be harnessed for computations, but no one had made machines capable of complex, multi-step calculations.

That's no longer the case. Quantum advantage remains a dream, but Kim, a researcher and cofounder of the publicly traded quantum company IonQ, more firmly believes he'll be around for the breakthrough.

"I think they're really starting to bring a lot of these near-term quantum applications into sight," he said. "I'm actually starting to be more convinced that something can happen in the next few years."

The Triangle is positioned to play a significant role in this pursuithowever long it takes.

Inside the Chesterfield building in downtown Durham, the Duke Quantum Center partners with IonQ to develop one of the two leading types of quantum machines. Known as ion-trap, the device levitates an array of atoms above gold-plated processing chips in an airless vacuum.

In exchange for exclusive rights to the intellectual property produced at the Duke lab, IonQ gave the university equity in the Maryland-based company that went public in 2021 and currently has a market capitalization above $2.6 billion. Since last year, IonQ has sold its first four full ion-trap quantum systems, CEO Peter Chapman told investors on Nov. 8.

Companies, schools, even the U.S. Army have poured resources into studying quantum computing, lured by the technologies' immense potential on a wide range of industries like finance, logistics, cybersecurity and biochemistry. If their potential is ever met, these machines promise exponentially greater computational powers, handling tasks in minutes that would take today's classical computers years (if ever) to complete.

Superconductors, the other prominent approach to quantum computing, are the focus of North Carolina State University and its partner corporation, IBM. Nicknamed "chandeliers," IBM's machines are gold-plated, multi-level apparatuses with a progression of wires and tubes funneling down to single silicon processor chips. While Duke has ion-trap computers in the Triangle, NC State researchers remotely access the chandeliers, which are housed at the IBM facility in Yorktown Heights, New York.

"Each technology kind of has its strength," said Daniel Stancil, executive director of the IBM Quantum Hub at NC State. "I think there have been some significant developments in the hardware in the past year."

Cramming in the qubits

The weekend before Thanksgiving, NC State hosted a regional quantum workshop on its main campus in Raleigh. With tutorials titled "Intro to Quantum Computing" and "A crash course on quantum simulation of chemistry," the event aimed to make the esoteric quantum science accessible.

Quantum computers mirror physics at the atomic scale to manage information. While traditional computers run on bits symbolized by binary 1s and 0s, quantum computers use quantum bits, or qubits, to illustrate states in a more complex manner.

Two quantum mechanical phenomena make these machines more advanced. One is called superpositionthe capacity of a qubit to be in multiple positions at once until it's measured. Another is entanglement, which describes how different qubits are interwoven.

In the past few years, the number of qubits in quantum computers has increased, says Norbert Linke, a physics professor at Duke.

"If you compare the last 40 years when the first quantum effects were barely seen, and no one could imagine controlling quantum systems to this level," he said. "Then we've gone in the last five years from a handful of qubits to 10s of qubits."

Last year, IBM unveiled a processor containing 433 qubits, which is nicknamed the Osprey. This spring, the company announced plans to complete a 100,000-qubit computer by 2033.

Linke attributes the advancements to "brute force engineering."

"We're hitting new limits," he said. "That doesn't mean everyone (soon) has a quantum computer in their back pocket. But I would be very surprised if we didn't have some useful applications of this technology in a realistic timescale."

'For the first time, the wall clock time matters'

Where will the first application occur?

Fidelity and Delta Air Lines have each partnered with N.C. State's hub; many view the quantitative foundations of financial markets and airline logistics as ripe for quantum computing. In total, IBM's quantum computing network counts more than 200 Fortune 500 companies as members.

UNC-Chapel Hill specializes in quantum research for financial technologies. The U.S. Army Research Office, based in Research Triangle Park, has funded studies for quantum defense.

Kim, of IonQ, predicts the first quantum advantage will come out of left field.

"Always the very first application of new technology comes from unexpected places by enabling things that were not possible before," he said.

As quantum computing accelerates, stakeholders confront both old and new problems.

The sheer number of qubits is just one factor toward achieving quantum advantage. Atomic systems are delicate. Keeping these environments sterile and at extremely low temperatures are both ways quantum researchers maintain what is known as coherence, the amount of time qubits retain their quantum information.

However, decoherence invariably occurs to muddle calculations.

Quantum researchers have improved their ability to identify the source of errors, NC State's Stancil says, which allows for more "noisy" results to be corrected. Yet as the technology shifts from theory to practice, other considerations come into play.

Compared to superconductors, trapped-ion machines have superior coherence times but slower calculation speeds. At Duke, Linke said his team no longer asks if their computers work but instead focus on how long the computations take.

"For the first time, the wall clock time matters," he said.

Kim said new issues will arise on the march toward quantum advantage.

"I think it will just continue to evolve," he said. "The problem today will be solved tomorrow. And then we'll get the next problem. And the next problem."

Triangle quantum researchers don't talk of a moment when all these problems will completely vanish. Instead, they hope for a time when the errors are small enough and the error correction tools robust enough to solve a task faster and more accurately than our current classical machines.

If this quantum advantage is reached, it could prove the viability of a technology that still often sounds like science fiction. Kim anticipates investors would then flood into the field, fueling future quantum activity in more sectors of society.

"I think there's a really good chance that that can get kicked off in the next few years," he said. "But if not, maybe we have to wait another decade."

2023 The News & Observer.

Distributed at Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Elon Musk is seeking to raise a billion dollars for his xAI artificial intelligence company that he hopes will compete with ChatGPT's Open AI.

An official filing to the US Securities and Exchange Commission on Tuesday said the company that Musk created earlier this year had already gathered $134.7 million and plans to raise $1 billion overall.

The filing added that there was a firm agreement to raise the full funds needed to meet the target, indicating that Musk may have deals in place for the full billion.

Musk last month offered a preview of his company's ChatGPT-like chatbot, called "Grok," which he said was trained on data from X, formerly Twitter, that Musk bought for $44 billion a year ago.

The wealthy entrepreneur and founder of electric carmaker Tesla started xAI in July after hiring researchers from OpenAI, Google DeepMind, Tesla and the University of Toronto.

He said that the company was missioned to "understand the true nature of the universe."

Since OpenAI's generative AI tool ChatGPT exploded on the scene a year ago, the technology has been an area of fierce competition between tech giants Microsoft and Google, as well as Meta and start-ups like Anthropic and Stability AI.

OpenAI reportedly secured commitments of $13 billion from Microsoft earlier this year.

Musk's funding round comes as OpenAI suffered a chaotic few days last month that saw CEO Sam Altman return as the strong man of the company after being dismissed for a few days.

According to reports, OpenAI was planning an imminent share sale that valued the company between $80 and $90 billion, but that sale has been delayed because of the boardroom chaos.

 2023 AFP
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Design illustration of the TTSS, where a) is a 2-dimensional view, and b) is a 3-dimensional view (Tavakolinia, 2011). Credit: Energy Reports (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.egyr.2023.11.027

If you want to improve the output of solar energy systems, why not also run them at night? That's the question researchers in Qatar and Jordan addressed as they successfully devised a system that promises to more than double energy output of current solar power stations.

By combining two conceptsa solar updraft system and a cooling downdraft structureresearchers designed a model that could generate 753 MWh of energy annually. That's enough to power roughly 753 homes for about five weeks or 1,500 60-watt light bulbs nonstop for a year.

The origins of the system, referred to as Solar Tower Power Plant, go back to 1982 when Spanish engineers constructed a chimney-like tower with a mechanical turbine at its base. Air within the tower was warmed by absorbing solar radiation, similar to a greenhouse. As the air heated, it created an updraft that rose and activated wind turbines that in turn generated electricity.

That model was not widely adopted, mainly due to the enormous structural size that required massive acreage. It was also quite costly.

Changes over the following years included improvements in ventilation, altering construction materials, bolstering insulating surfaces and applying multiple turbo generators to boost output.

According to the researchers, such improvements at best resulted in "modest" improvements.

Emad Abdelsalam, of the School of Engineering Technology at Al Hussein Technical University in Jordan, and colleagues developed an improved updraft system and incorporated downdraft technology to achieve better results.

A downdraft system, like the updraft, centers on a tall tower. Pumps carry water to the top where warm air collects and cools it. The cooler air becomes more dense than the outside air and falls through the cylinder. That cooler air drives the base turbine that in turn generates electricity.

The model is referred to as a Twin Technology Solar System (TTSS).

The model TTSS updraft tower is 652 feet high with a 45-foot diameter. Ten downdraft towers encircle the updraft tower.

Power continues to be generated at night as air from daytime sunlight retains heat.

"The value-added feature of the new structure was to improve electricity production efficiency and reduce production costs compared to the original traditional solar updraft system," Abdelsalam said. "The study results will open the door for additional improvements in the future toward addressing the issues mentioned above."

The TTSS works out efficiently in a hot, dry climate. A simulation was devised based on weather conditions of Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, where temperatures average above 100 degrees from May through September.

Between the two processes, power generation is achieved round the clock. Weather can affect outputhumidity, more common in winter, slows the process downand researchers also note that reliance on a continuous supply of large quantities of water is an issue that needs to be addressed.

Another benefit of the system is its contribution to air quality. The TTSS system resulted in a reduction of 677 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

The researchers' paper, "An innovative twin-technology solar system design for electricity production," is published in Energy Reports.

More information: Emad Abdelsalam et al, An innovative twin-technology solar system design for electricity production, Energy Reports (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.egyr.2023.11.027

 2023 Science X Network
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The UK advertising standards watchdog rapped three airlines for greenwashing claims.

A UK watchdog on Wednesday banned three online adverts from airlines Air France, Etihad Airways and Lufthansa for "misleading" claims over their environmental impact.

The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) said the announcement was "part of a wider piece of enforcement work on climate change and the environment" as it cracks down on greenwashing or misleading climate-related statements designed to boost company reputations.

The ads, which were all published on Google in July, stated Air France was "committed to protecting the environment" and urged customers to "travel better and sustainably".

Lufthansa meanwhile indicated that travelers choosing the German airline would "fly more sustainably", while Etihad claimed it offered "environmental advocacy" to passengers.

The ASA ruled that the advertisements failed to show the impact all three airlines have on the environment and on the climate.

The regulator said Air France did not provide a "substantive response" to its investigation.

The airline told AFP that the ad "was generated by an artificial intelligence tool based on keywords entered by a user".

"This targeted ad was only visible online from the UK, and only 80 people saw it," it added.

"As soon as the ASA's decision was announced Air France changed the parameters for creating online advertisements to ensure that such an event could not happen again."

Lufthansa told AFP that its advert had referred to its so-called "green fares" option, whereby flights can use sustainable aviation fuel and offer carbon offsetting to lower emissions.

The German carrier "regrets that the Google advertisement in question lacked the explanation," it said in a statement.

Etihad said it had subsequently removed all references to "environmental advocacy" from its Google adverts.

The ASA, which said the offending ads were picked up by its own AI software to identify possible rule-breakers, added on Wednesday that air travel clearly impacted climate change.

"We understood that air travel produced high levels of both CO 2 and non-CO 2 emissions, which were making a substantial contribution to climate change," the watchdog stated.

"We also understood that there were currently no initiatives or commercially viable technologies in operation within the aviation industry that would adequately substantiate absolute green claims."

 2023 AFP
China issues warning for low temperatures, rain, snow disasters

Xinhua) 10:08, December 06, 2023

BEIJING, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinese authorities have issued a warning about potential risks of low temperatures, rain and snow disasters in the eastern and central regions of the country in December.

Three cold waves are expected to hit China this month, according to a joint analysis by government agencies including the Ministry of Emergency Management and China Meteorological Administration.

The agencies also forecast high risks of forest fires in the southern and southwestern parts of China, noting that the country may experience more destructive waves than usual this month.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
By Park Han-sol

The Literature Translation Institute of Korea (LTI Korea) announced the winners of its annual translation awards, Wednesday, recognizing the outstanding talents of professional and aspiring translators who have contributed to bringing Korean literature to readers around the world.

The grand prizes of this years LTI Korea Translation Award went to Hye-gyeong Kim-De Crescenzo and Jean-Claude De Crescenzo for their French rendering of Lee Seung-us Voyage a Cantant; Oh Young-a for her Japanese translation of Cho Hae-jins Simple Sincerity; and Lia Iovenittis Italian translation of Kim Hye-jins Concerning My Daughter. Each awardee received 20 million won ($15,234) in prize money.

Marie-Jeanne and Thierry Auzas, co-CEOs of Paris-based publisher Editions Imago, were honored with the outstanding service award. Founded in 1977, the publishing house has been releasing the translated Korean literature series called Scenes Coreennes since 2004, bringing to life 33 volumes of the countrys traditional folk tales, legends, plays and pansori (traditional musical storytelling) scripts in French.

The annual prize also recognized nine aspiring translators in literature and film/webtoon categories, respectively.

Among the winners, for Oh, who delved into the world of translation in 2007, the award was more than a recognition of her literary achievement; it was a reaffirmation of her roots and layered identities.

During the press conference, she introduced herself as a third-generation Korean living in Japan, whose grandparents relocated to the country in the early 1920s.

I remember them struggling with Japanese, unable to read or write it. And I, as a Korean-Japanese (person), couldnt speak or write Korean properly (while growing up). The fact that I am standing here in 2023, a century after my grandparents' move to Japan, would have made them very proud and pleased," she said.

The four top prize winners echoed that the demand for a wider variety of translated Korean literary works is growing overseas.

Previously, in the case of France, much of the translated Korean literature was weighty  in that the pieces required the readers to have a background knowledge about the countrys politics, economy and history to understand its content, the two De Crescenzos noted.

But from the mid-2010s onwards, we are seeing more and more works authored by young writers. A greater number of genre fiction, such as science fiction, and even webtoons are also being published.

To cater to those rising needs, Iovenitti stressed the role of LTI Korea and other systemic support systems in fostering a greater cohort of trained translators.

In Italy, more publishers are interested in printing Korean books, but the reality is that there arent enough translators. Its important for the organizations to focus on training young translators, networking with overseas publishing houses and organizing global book tours.
Dillon Alexander was arrested Sunday night in Madison County after he allegedly led officers on a high-speed chase of over 100 mph, according to the Madison County Sheriffs Office.

Alexander, 32, has been charged with evading in a motor vehicle and felony possession of suspected methamphetamine, according to police.

At 11:10 p.m. Sunday, officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Texas 21 for expired registration, police said.

The vehicle did not pull over and began accelerating at a high rate of speed. Officers said additional patrol cars joined the pursuit as the vehicle traveled over 100 mph across state highways and county roads.

The vehicle eventually turned onto F.M. 1372 to Texas 21W and began heading toward Madisonville, police said. Spike strips were placed in the path of the vehicle and officers said that Alexander crashed the car into a bush while attempting to avoid the spikes.

Alexander was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was taken into custody and transported to Madison County Jail.

Evading in a motor vehicle is a third-degree felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000.

No officers were harmed in the pursuit or resulting crash, according to police.
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AURORA  Caleb Arnett of Aurora, who is accused of fatally stabbing his stepfather and injuring two other family members early Saturday, was arraigned Tuesday morning in Hamilton County Court on six charges, including first-degree murder.

Arnett, 29, is charged with killing Ross Nickolaus, 48, and attacking the other two individuals on Fairview Drive in Aurora.

Hamilton County District Court Judge Lynelle Homolka set bond at $2 million and scheduled Arnetts preliminary hearing for 8:30 a.m. Dec. 19. To be released from jail, Arnett must pay 10% of the $2 million.

In addition to killing Nickolaus, Arnett is accused of attacking his mother, Theresa Arnett Nickolaus, and a teenage male.

Besides first-degree murder, Arnett is charged with three counts of use of a deadly weapon (not a firearm) during the commission of a felony and two counts of first-degree assault.

In the arrest affidavit, Aurora police officer Cody Barry said he was dispatched to 135 Fairview Drive at 1:22 a.m. He was called to an active disturbance in which one suspect had a knife and the reporting party (the minor) said there was blood everywhere. The minor reported that his brother had a knife and was covered in blood.

When Barry arrived at 1:26 a.m., he observed a hysterical/emotional female victim running around a driveway of a residence covered in blood.

The woman, Theresa Arnett Nickolaus, had severe wounds to her throat area. Barry later determined that she had sustained a severe laceration to her throat that extended across her windpipe, a puncture wound to her back, and a couple lacerations to her left arm.

Barry asked Arnett Nickolaus where her house was. She pointed to 135 Fairview and stated he was inside in a white shirt. I believed Theresa was giving a description of the suspect, Barry wrote in the affidavit.

Barry found the front door of the house locked. Through a window, Barry observed a white male wearing a white shirt soaked in blood. Barry recognized him as Caleb Arnett from previous contacts.

When Barry entered through the back door, Arnett had what appeared to be a knife in a black sheath in his left hand. When Barry told Arnett to show his hands, he dropped the knife.

Ross Nickolaus was found on the floor of his bedroom. Barry could not detect a pulse. The officer did not observe any defensive wounds on Nickolaus arms or hands while I pulled him from the bedroom, and it appeared Ross was lying in the bed when stabbed due to the amount of blood in the bed.

Nickolaus was declared dead at the hospital. The teenager had a severe laceration on his right hand.

The woman was first taken to CHI St. Francis in Grand Island and later taken by medical helicopter to CHI Health Creighton University Bergan Mercy in Omaha. The teenager was taken to the hospital by a deputy, because no ambulances were left on the scene. According to the affidavit, he required stitches to his hand.

The prosecutor in the case is Hamilton County Attorney Douglas Dexter. Arnett is being represented by Robert Kortus of the Nebraska Commission on Public Advocacy in Lincoln.
North Korea has held a meeting to hand out gifts to participants in the latest national conference of mothers, state media reported Wednesday, in an apparent move to secure their loyalty amid a declining birth rate.

The central committee of the ruling Workers' Party provided the participants with significant gifts "associated with the meticulous paternal affection" of leader Kim Jong-un.

Kim did not attend Tuesday's event, but the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said he made sure that "the kind and number of gifts are chosen suited to" the tastes of the participants.

Kim called for measures to prevent a decline in North Korea's birth rate at the Fifth National Conference of Mothers, which closed a two-day session Monday. It was the first meeting of mothers in 11 years.

South Korea's unification ministry said Kim publicly mentioned a fall in the birth rate for the first time, an indication that North Korea is grappling with the issue.

North Korea's total fertility rate  the number of children that are expected to be born to a woman over her lifetime  came to 1.8 in 2023, according to data posted on the website of the U.N. Population Fund. It is much lower than the replacement level of 2.1 that would keep North Korea's population stable at 26 million.

North Korea last held a national conference of mothers in 2012. The inaugural gathering took place in November 1961. (Yonhap)
A civil liberties group and Indian child welfare coalition have filed a "friend of the court" brief in a Lancaster County case involving the termination of a Native mother's parental rights to her sons.

The Nebraska Court of Appeals is set to hear oral arguments in the case involving the Indian Child Welfare Act later this month.

The Nebraska Indian Child Welfare Coalition and the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska aren't parties to the case, but filed an amicus brief in which they provide information or argument for the judges to consider as they weigh the legal arguments.

In a decision this summer, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the Indian Child Welfare Act, which requires state officials to make efforts to keep Native families together and says courts cannot terminate Native parents parental rights or place Native youths in foster care without hearing testimony from a qualified expert witness.

Because both children in the case and their mother are enrolled or eligible for membership with the Oglala Sioux Tribe, the law applies in the case.

In the mother's appeal, her attorneys with Legal Aid of Nebraska argue that the Lancaster County Juvenile Court Judge Shellie Sabata's decision should be reversed because it wasn't in the children's best interest and wasn't "supported by qualified expert testimony."

At a formal hearing in April, the state presented the testimony of five witnesses, including mental health practitioners, a supervisor and a specialist with the Department of Health and Human Services and the foster parent.

They argue none was a qualified expert witness, who is meant to have expertise beyond normal social worker qualifications and knowledge of social and cultural standards of the Oglala Sioux Tribe.

NICWC and the ACLU of Nebraskas amicus brief discusses the expert witness requirement under ICWA and how it relates to Nebraska statute and Bureau of Indian Affairs regulations. It also raises a 2009 case where the Nebraska Court of Appeals determined a Department of Health and Human Services employee did not meet ICWAs expert witness requirement as she did not regularly provide services to Indigenous Nebraskans or have extensive knowledge of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe.

Misty Flowers, executive director of Nebraska Indian Child Welfare Coalition and a member of the Santee Sioux Nation, said the coalition frequently is contacted about Indian Child Welfare Act qualified expert witnesses, "and we always defer to tribal qualified expert witnesses from the childs tribe.

If one isn't available, the coalition can help fill that role, she said. And they have provided training for tribal members who want to serve in that role for their tribe.

"It is an important part of our work to educate, advocate and bring people together around ICWA compliance to protect the rights of Indian children and maintain their cultural connections, Flowers said.

Joy Kathurima, legal and policy counsel for ACLU of Nebraska, said as Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote in June, the Indian Child Welfare Act "did not come out of a vacuum."

She said it came in direct response to the forced mass removal of Native children from their families, tribes and tribal cultures.

"Especially given that context, the significance of qualified expert witness testimony in determining the best interests of a child cannot be overstated," Kathurima said.

She said they hope the brief "leads to an outcome that ensures state officials fully meet their obligation under ICWA to understand how this custody decision will impact these children and their access to cultural identity, language and heritage."

Top Journal Star photos for December 2023
The Omaha Police Department is investigating after a student reported that she was sexually assaulted at Westside High School.

The student, a minor, reported to school administration Friday that she had been assaulted at the school that day and named a male student as a suspect, according to a police report.

The schools resource officer was notified by administration, who advised that there was a second student who may have been a witness or potential suspect in the incident, the report said. Both students who were potentially involved were taken in for questioning.

Police advised the students family that she would need to undergo a sexual assault kit and could do so at Project Harmony, the report said.

In a statement, the Westside Community Schools said it was notified by police that criminal charges had been filed. Officer Chris Gordon confirmed that an arrest had been made in the case but said information was not available on specific criminal charges Tuesday evening.
Inside Willa Cather's attic bedroom, the floral pattern wallpaper the author selected is still stuck to the walls.

Downstairs in the parlor, there are tables that belonged to the Cather family. Shelves throughout the house were built by Cather's father.

This childhood home in Red Cloud is the site most closely associated with Cather's life in Nebraska. Along with the town itself, the home was often used as a setting in her novels and short stories.

Coinciding with her 150th birthday on Thursday, the home is reopening for limited tours following 16 months of restoration work. According to The National Willa Cather Center, it was the first comprehensive restoration of the home in more than fifty years.

The house is designated a National Historic Landmark, part of the largest grouping of preserved historic sites and landscapes related to any other American writer, according to the center.

Cather is a Pulitzer Prize-winning author who moved to Nebraska with her family in 1883. A graduate of the University of Nebraska, she is perhaps best known for her novels "My Antonia," "O Pioneers!," and "Death Comes for the Archbishop."

Cather lived in the modest one-and-a-half-story frame house between the ages of 10 and 16. While Cather moved away from Nebraska in 1896, her parents Charles and Mary Virginia Cather rented the home through 1904.

Ashley Olson, executive director of The National Willa Cather Center, said that for many visitors, the childhood home is one of the biggest draws.

"The childhood home is the site that most people want to see," Olson said. "It's the site most closely associated with Cather's life and her time in Red Cloud."

When Cather's family initially moved to Red Cloud, they lived on the homestead of her grandparents in northwest Webster County. Less than two years later, they moved into town and into the rented house.

Olson said many visitors are surprised that a family of Cather's size could fit in the home. Two parents, four children, Cather's maternal grandmother and the family's domestic worker all lived in the house. Three children were later born while the family lived in the house.

The house is vividly described in "The Song of the Lark," Old Mrs. Harris and The Best Years. People who have read those works often say the house is just as Cather described it, Olson said.

As the eldest child, Cather was eventually given a private room on the north side of the attic. She had a hand in decorating that space, including the wallpaper that was applied directly to the acidic wooden boards beneath.

"This simple attic bedroom, which Cather later referred to in a letter as her 'rose-bower,' was for a few pivotal years in a small and busy household of nine, the solitary space needed for her brilliant young mind to imagine the whole world," the center said in a press release.

The center closed the house in August 2022 for the extensive restoration project which included creating an accessible walkway and entrance, installing new non-intrusive museum lighting, a climate control system, a new roof and new foundation.

Enclosure of the attic space and extensive repairs to the windows and doors sealed the building envelope, which will limit exposure to the elements and ensure an improved environment for collections care, the center said.

The exterior of the house was repainted after the colors were confirmed through a paint analysis.

That wallpaper in the attic, which Olson said is the most important artifact in the house, is the next task on the center's list.

Decades of light and environmental instability have taken a toll on the wallpaper. Conservation work on it will resume in March to extend the lifespan of the paper to the extent possible.

"We can't restore it to its original appearance but we can conserve it to slow the deterioration and that's what we'll be doing next," Olson said.

The center said guests who book a tour in the early weeks of that month will have an opportunity to see paper conservators at work in the space.

For more information about getting tours of the house, visit www.willacather.org/tours.

Holiday tours on Saturdays are available through December, and on December 7, Cather's birthday. They can be booked online or as walk-ins, depending on availability.

For Cather's birthday on Thursday, the center will have a live streamed virtual book launch and reading of Benjamin Taylors book, "Chasing Bright Medusas: A Life of Willa Cather." A link to the event can be found on the organization's website.

Throughout the year, there have been tributes to Cather to celebrate her 150th birthday. Olson said it's been an opportunity to introduce new readers to Cather's work and think about how it's relevant to people today.

"Cather herself was a very gifted writer and for Nebraskans, she sort of put the state on the map," Olson said. "She started writing about this Plains settlement experience that editors on the coasts really didn't care anything about. Now we have, through her words, this glimpse into an important part of our state's history and our nation's history."

150 Notable Nebraskans 2. Standing Bear 4. George Norris 5. William Jennings Bryan 6. John Neihardt 9. Charles Dawes 10. Ted Sorensen 11. J. Sterling Morton 12. Tom Osborne 13. John J. Pershing 14. Harold Edgerton 15. Loren Eiseley 16. Dick Cavett 17. Bob Kerrey 18. Henry Fonda 19. Roscoe Pound 20. Ernie Chambers 21. Bob Devaney 22. Crazy Horse 23. Susan La Flesche Picotte 24. Bob Gibson 25. Peter Kiewit 26. Marlon Brando 27. Charles Bessey 28. Louise Pound 29. George Beadle 30. Hartley Burr Alexander 31. Solomon Butcher 32. Bess Streeter Aldrich 33. Joyce Hall 34. Ted Kooser 35. Mari Sandoz 36. Robert Henri 37. Grover Cleveland Alexander 38. J.J. Exon 39. Alexander Payne 40. Daniel Freeman 42. Edith Abbott 43. Red Cloud 44. Darryl Zanuck 45. Chuck Hagel 46. Walter Behlen 47. Roger Welsch 48. Cliff Hillegass 49. Kay Orr 50. Ernst Lied 51. Grace Abbott 52. Terry Carpenter 53. Paul Johnsgard 54. Malcolm X 55. Robert Taylor 56. Harold Lloyd 57. Johnny Rodgers 58. Rose Blumkin 59. Harold Warp 60. Mike Johanns 61. Sandy Dennis 62. Chip Davis 63. Larry the Cable Guy 64. Walter Scott Jr. 65. Wright Morris 66. Gerald Ford 67. Gale Sayers 68. Virginia Smith 69. Clayton Anderson 70. Edwin Perkins 71. Matthew Sweet 72. Bob Boozer 73. Susette La Flesche Tibbles 74. Alvin Johnson 75. Father Edward Flanagan 76. Moses Kinkaid 77. Robert Furnas 78. Jeff Raikes 79. Joel Sartore 80. Donald Clifton 81. Sarah and George Joslyn 82. Robert Daugherty 83. Dwight Griswold 84. Nathan Gold 85. Ben Kuroki 86. William Petersen 87. Terry Pettit 88. Preston Love 89. Evelyn Brodstone Vestey 90. The Creightons 91. Grenville Dodge 92. Norman Geske 93. Frank Woods 94. J. Lee Rankin 95. Gordon MacRae 97. Mabel Lee 98. Weldon Kees 99. Howard Hanson 100. William 'Speedy Bill' Smith 101. Keith Jacobshagen 102. Mary Pipher 103. Andrew Higgins 104. Gilbert Hitchcock 105. Charles Gere 106. Jordan Larson 107. Ed Zorinsky 108. Dick Cheney 109. Roman Hruska 110. Gutzon Borglum 111. Dave Rimington 112. Thomas Rogers Kimball 113. Logan Fontenelle 114. Nick Nolte 115. James Coburn 116. Randy Meisner 117. Max Baer 118. Magic Slim 119. Carl Curtis 120. Seacrest Family 121. Gabrielle Union 123. Jonas Brandeis 124. Herman Cain 125. Paul Williams 126. Nicholas Sparks 127. Edward Ruscha 128. "Wahoo" Sam Crawford 129. Neal Hefti 130. Marg Helgenberger 131. Charlie Greene 132. Lee Simmons 133. Zager and Evans 134. James Valentine 135. Fred Seaton 136. John Falter 137. Aaron Douglas 138. Guy Chamberlin 139. Johnny Goodman 140. Norbert Tiemann 141. Victor Lewis 142. Reinhold Marxhausen 143. Michael Forsberg 144. Buddy Miles 145. "Gorgeous" George Wagner 146. Jack Van Berg 147. Mike Hill 148. Wynonie Harris 149. Swoosie Kurtz 150. Charles Starkweather
Vietnams Lilama delivers first modules of mega green hydrogen to Saudi Arabia

By Tri Duc Wed, December 6, 2023 | 5:08 pm GMT+7

Vietnamese industrial engineering company Lilama has delivered its first electrolyzer modules to the $8 billion Neom Green Hydrogen project in Saudi Arabia, currently the worlds largest such facility.

The delivery of four of 110 modules per the signed agreement was a milestone for the firms participation in the global green energy supply chain as well as climate change adaptation efforts, Lilama said Tuesday.

Lilama transports electrolyzer modules from its factory in Hai Phong city, northern Vietnam, December 5, 2023. Photo courtesy of Lilama.

With this achievement, Lilama is among the first businesses in the world to participate in the green hydrogen supply chain, contributing to the worlds net-zero emission commitments made at the COP26, COP27 and COP28.

The achievement has resulted from the cooperation between Lilama and Thyssenkrupp Nucera, part of Germany-based multinational industrial engineering giant Thyssenkrupp. The two sides plan to deliver all modules to the mega project by the third quarter of 2025, then continue with other green hydrogen projects in Europe, North America and the Middle East.

The Neom Green Hydrogen project in Saudi Arabia aims to fully use renewable energy, particularly wind and solar energy, to generate 600 tons of hydrogen every day. Each 20MW electrolyzer module, weighing 200 tons, can produce about six tons of green hydrogen per day.

The electrolyzer manufacturing is the second collaboration between Lilama and Thyssenkrupp Nucera, after the first one on making two large-scale water electrolysis standard modules for a green liquid hydrogen factory in Arizona, the U.S.
Broadband

Connect K12 Report Shows Marked Increase in School District Internet Connectivity

In its fourth and final report on K12 school district internet connectivity, Connected Nation's (CN) Connect K12 program tracked a 57.4% increase in the three years since 2020, and now 74% of the nation's school districts meet or exceed the FCC's 1 Mbps bandwidth per student goal, an increase of over 5 million students since 2022.

The report was compiled in partnership with Funds for Learning and is based on 2023 application data from the FCC's School and Libraries Program (E-rate).

Under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program alone, $42.45 billion will be invested to enhance broadband infrastructure across all 50 states and the five U.S. territories. While BEAD will focus primarily on unserved and underserved locations, the whole telecom system will also be enhanced, the report noted.

Meeting or exceeding the FCC goal means a cheaper cost, the report revealed. In 2023, the cost per megabit has dropped for those districts to 85 cents, while districts who have not met it are paying a median cost of $1.55.

"This demonstrates that the FCC's goal is not just attainable, it actually benefits school districts in several ways," said Emily Jordan, vice president of education initiatives at CN. "Students and teachers are getting the connectivity they need in every classroom, every day, and the districts are potentially saving money."

Other key findings include:

In 2023, 16 states have 80% or more of their districts meeting the connectivity goal, as opposed to only nine states in 2022.

Kentucky's districts made a huge leap in 2023, going from 49th in 2022 to fifth, with 97% meeting the FCC goal.

Of the nation's 12,911 school districts (representing nearly 55 million students), 3,330 are still not meeting the goal. That translates to nearly half the nation's students (close to 24 million) who still lack adequate bandwidth to take advantage of all the possible digital learning opportunities.

To learn more and download the report, visit this page. The ConnectK12.org website will remain live through the end of the 2024 funding year, but connectivity and cost data will continue to be available for free on Funds For Learning's website.
Robotics

Imagine Learning Debuts Imagine Robotify Coding Course for Eighth Graders

Imagine Learning (IL) has announced a course specifically to teach eighth grade students how to code by controlling a browser-based virtual robot, without the need for expensive hardware or software. The course, part of IL's Imagine Robotify program, is called "Flex's Rescue Training." It's an advanced Python coding course designed to prepare middle school students for computer science credits required for graduation in a growing number of high schools.

The course aligns with Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) standards. It features over 900 coding challenges and interactive, game-based learning. It also includes extensive teacher resources, so that teachers without prior coding experience or training can begin teaching and assessing these skills easily as they use the program alongside their students.

The course is also specifically aimed at those students, particularly girls, who are not traditionally drawn to STEM subjects or who have little access to tech learning. The course helps develop the four cornerstone STEM skills: critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication.

"We understand the importance of early exposure to coding and computational thinking in today's digital age," said Sarah Anderson, IL's vice president of product management, supplemental. "Therefore, we've created a course that not only captivates young minds but also nurtures essential 21st-century skills. Our goal is to empower educators and inspire students, especially girls and those from diverse backgrounds, to explore the limitless possibilities in the world of technology."

The course can be accessed on multiple devices (computers, laptops, tablets, and Chromebooks), with no apps required, during school and at home, the company said. It merges Python programming with ecological problem solving in a 3D environment. Lessons are available in English and Spanish, and coding language support is available in French, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, and Turkish.

"You don't have to have a tangible robot in front of you, because you're seeing your robot on the screen do exactly what you tell it to do," said a science teacher at Seitz Middle School in Riverview, MI.

"They're also learning that if one piece of code line doesn't work, then their whole entire program's not going to work," said another teacher. "So they're learning that they need to be precise, but it's okay to fail at the same time."

Visit this page to learn more, download a brochure, and watch a video, including student comments, about Imagine Robotify being used at Seitz Middle School.

Go here to learn more about the specific eighth grade course.
A husband and wife had dramatically different reactions when the husband scratched off a winning ticket in Springfield.

They were sitting in their car when the husband scratched off a $300,000 lottery win. He stayed seated. His wife did not.

When I told her, she jumped out and ran around the car, the husband told South Carolina Education Lottery officials. She was more excited than me.

The scene played out in the parking lot of the Golden Pantry on Capital Way in Springfield, where the couple bought the $10 scratch-off. The husband says hed bought a Kings Ransom ticket before and wanted to try another one.

It was my turn to win, he said. Ive paid everything off, and Im going to travel with my wife.

The win leaves one top prize of $300,000 in the Kings Ransom game at odds of 1 in 900,000.

Golden Pantry in Springfield received a commission of $3,000 for selling the claimed ticket.

The S.C. Education Lottery Commission did not provide the names of husband and wife.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un appears to have been "in a hurry" to bring his daughter to the forefront in a bid to demonstrate his commitment to the third hereditary power succession, Seoul's top point man on Pyongyang said Wednesday.

Unification Minister Kim Yung-ho made the assessment amid speculation that frequent public appearances by Kim's daughter, believed to be named Ju-ae, may indicate she could be anointed to succeed her father.

"The North Korean leader appears to be in a hurry to highlight his daughter in an indication that he is trying to demonstrate his will for succession in the face of difficulties (facing the North)," Kim said in a meeting with reporters at a hotel in Yangpyeong, about 40 kilometers east of Seoul.

The minister said there are "signs" that North Korea has been facing multiple difficulties, citing a series of closures of its diplomatic missions and a food shortage.

Kim called on the North's leader to shift the focus of state policy to measures to improve people's livelihoods from military-focused policy at a key party meeting set for later this month.

North Korea plans to hold a plenary meeting of the central committee of the ruling Workers' Party late this month in a bid to review its 2023 policy measures and unveil its policy lines for next year.

"(The North's leader) should make a bold decision for the economy and people's livelihoods by realizing that it is impossible to catch the two rabbits of the military and the economy," the minister said.

Meanwhile, a senior official at the unification ministry said Kim Ju-ae appears to have emerged "at an early stage" in the process of a hereditary succession.

In a party congress in 2021, North Korea newly awarded the title of general secretary to Kim Jong-un and created the posts of seven secretaries, including the first secretary.

The first secretary of the Workers' Party could assume Kim Jong-un's role when the general secretary cannot perform his duty.

"The position of the first secretary has been vacant. This could be in consideration of Kim Ju-ae," the official told reporters on condition of anonymity.

Ju-ae, believed to be around 10 years old, made her first public appearance on Nov. 18, 2022, when she, along with her father, attended the firing of a Hwasong-17 intercontinental ballistic missile.

Unification Minister Kim earlier left open the possibility that Ju-ae could be an heir apparent to succeed Kim Jong-un.

Kim Jong-un took over the communist country following the death of his father, Kim Jong-il, in 2011. The late Kim inherited power from his father, the country's founder, Kim Il-sung, who died in 1994. (Yonhap)
(TBTCO) - Gia ca phe hom nay (11/1) tai thi truong trong nuoc noi dai chuoi ngay i len. Ghi nhan cho thay, muc giao dich cao nhat trong cac ia phuong uoc khao sat la 70.500 ong/kg. Trong khi o, gia tieu dao ong trong khoang 78.000 - 80.000 ong/kg sau khi uoc ieu chinh giam ong loat. oi voi cao su, gia ky han tren hai san giao dich uoc ieu chinh tang duoi 2% trong phien sang nay.
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With nearly two million customers in six Western states, and a total integrated system of generation and transmission that spans 10 states, PaciCorp is the largest privately owned and operated electric grid in the Western United States.

Around 144,000 businesses and households in Wyoming rely on that grid through service from PacifiCorp subsidiary Rocky Mountain Power (RMP). And while the Cowboy State represents meager .072% of the overall customer base, it has an outsize presence in the utilitys portfolio: RMPs Wyoming facilities contribute 4,626 megawatt capacity to the companys total net-owned capacity of 10,894 megawatts  more than 42%.

For many Wyomingites, its a hard fact to square RMPs effort to increase electric rates by 29%, which many say is evidence that the state is getting the short end of the utility stick. The frustration has spawned a slew of legislative proposals to reign in the states biggest utility, and has even caused some to call for the socialization of the companys Wyoming assets.

Im not too sure that the state shouldnt take over your business, buy you out and deliver the electricity to our people, said Rep. Bill Allemand, addressing the company during a Public Service Commission (PSC) hearing in October. Any extra electricity should be sold. But I think we should develop co-ops and Im not against cutting you folks out.

The attitude reflects a wider disenchantment with privately owned utilities around the country, some of which are currently under attack. In Maine, for instance, residents in metropolitan areas have put up a ballot initiative that could rescind monopoly privileges of two private utilities and transfer them to a nonprofit authority  a move reminiscent of the 2005 municipal takeover by Winter Park, Florida, which made a private utility public.

Although what works in one part of the country may not work in another. Boulder, Colorado, as an example, in 2020 threw in the towel on a years-long effort to de-privatize its major provider.

And while there are some examples of municipal buyouts, state level takeovers have little precedent. The notion is especially uncanny in a pro-business state like Wyoming. But is it feasible? How much would it cost to buy out RMP? And would it be worth it?

Utility experts dont think the idea will gain much traction  beginning with the fact that its hard to buy something that isnt for sale.

Wyoming does export a lot of energy, but the generating assets are owned by a private corporation. And I cant imagine a scenario where the company would be willing to sell its assets, said Dave Eskelsen, Spokesman for PaciCorp, who explained that Wyoming would need to negotiate not just with RMP but with other interests, too, like Idaho Power, which owns a third of the Jim Bridger generation and transmission facilities.

Beyond the companies stated asset value with the Wyoming State Tax Commission, a buyout price would also include considerations of future earnings potential along with existing debt, meaning the total price is likely to be much higherand some utility experts believe the public would lose its appetite for a buyout when the actual cost was clear.

It would be vastly expensive. The state of Wyoming would have to come up with its own source of funding. Lets assume thats in the high billions of dollars, said Anthony Ornelas, of the Office of Consumer Advocate, an independent oversight agency that helps regulate utilities in Wyoming.

Ornelas said the state would also incur expenses related to training a specialized workforce, building and maintaining additional infrastructure, as well as assuming the growing liability associated with operating utilities  most ominously those cropping up from wildfire risk; this year PaciCorp was found liable for damages related to a 2018 Oregon wildfire.

That case has reached multi billions of dollars worth of damages and theres a whole bunch more that could be coming because this has turned into a class action suit, Ornelas said. So I would have concerns for the state of Wyoming if we decided to isolate and make it a state run utility.

Ornelas also worries the state could lose the advantage of an economy of scale, and specifically the resource and load diversity offered by the partner state arrangement.

Pick a day in July when were hitting a new heatwave, and we have 100 plus degrees. Were going to be calling on a substantial amount of energy and power to run our air conditioners. If the Pacific Northwest is not experiencing that same heat wave, they dont have the same demands, so we can essentially lean on them and their relative surplus.

On its face, I understand the appealif we ring fence Wyoming and just serve all of our needs simply using the natural gas or coal assets that we love, and not have to worry about things that maybe arent politically appetizing, such as renewables, or whatever the reason. But I just dont see that as a real viable option, said Ornelas.
A Laramie County deputy, who is accused in a federal lawsuit of assaulting a disabled eight-year-old boy, was cleared in the use-of-force incident and is still employed, Sheriff Brian Kozak told the Star-Tribune.

Last week, a couple filed a complaint against the Laramie County Sheriffs Office, alleging Deputy Benjamin Jacquot committed a vicious physical assault upon a disabled eight-year-old boy, second grader  their son J.D.  in 2022.

J.D. was allegedly profusely bleeding from lacerations on his face and nose, and photographs taken the day of the incident show the child with several injuries around his eyes, the federal lawsuit shows.

At the time of the assault, Deputy Jacquot (who is White) weighed over 250 pounds and eight-year-old J.D. (who is African American) weighed 68 pounds, the filing states.

The incident is disturbing and shocking, Matthew A. Haltzman, an attorney representing J.D.s parents, told the Star-Tribune.

Deputy Jacquot is accused of deleting portions of his body cam footage following the assault in an effort to conceal his wrongdoing, the federal lawsuit states.

But Laramie County Sheriff Kozak says that the allegation the deputy deleted video, this is an inaccurate assumption.

Both Jacquot and the sheriffs office are accused of violating J.D.s Fourth and Fourteenth Amendment for unreasonable seizure and use of force.

Federal lawsuit

J.D. was a student in Laramie County School District 1 at the time, the federal lawsuit states.

He went to the school principals office for his lunch recess on Feb. 15, 2022, as part of his individualized education and behavior plan, the filing states.

The district had designated J.D. as a child with a disability because of his diagnosed neurodivergent disability, the filing states. J.D. received a plan to ensure specialized instruction and related services, including procedures for different scenarios such as de-escalation methods during confrontations.

For example: Breaks in a quiet area when he is feeling frustrated. When he is frustrated give him space to calm down, the filing states.

At the principals office, J.D.s teacher and principal spoke with him about comments he had made to a cashier in the lunchroom and whether he should apologize, the filing states.

Deputy Jacquot allegedly happened to be standing near the principals office with his body cam recording for a random security check, the filing states.

None of Jacquots body camera footage is included for public viewing in the lawsuit. There are some screen captures and descriptions included in the filing.

The teacher and principal did not request any intervention from the deputy at any time, the lawsuit states. The first five minutes of Jacquots body cam footage allegedly show a calm interaction between everyone involved.

But the next portion of the footage was unavailable, the lawsuit states.

Jacquot is accused upon information and belief of deleting the footage of the assault, the lawsuit states.

According to the principals written report, Jacquot grabbed J.D. by the arm and began walking him away to return to class, the filing states.

There was no reason at all for Deputy Jacquot to become involved with J.D. but nevertheless, forcibility wrestled J.D. into a nearby conference room using an armlock where the assault grew violent, the filing states.

Jacquot is accused of repeatedly slamming J.D.s face down onto the floor, climbing on top of him causing him to struggle breathing and screaming threats at him.

The undeleted body cam video returns at 5:16, at which point J.D. is pinned underneath Deputy Jacquot while J.D. screams and cries in pain and fear, the filing states. At this point, J.D. is struggling to breathe and is coughing.

The footage allegedly shows J.D. repeatedly saying, I give up, the filing states.

In response, Deputy Jacquot allegedly screams at the child, No, its all me! Do you understand me! I should be taking you to jail!

As noted above, immediately after his assault on J.D., Deputy Jacquot went to his vehicle, and, upon information and belief, destroyed evidence by deleting his body cam video which showed the most violent portion of the assault, as well as the footage of his improper intervention into and escalation of this situation, the filing states.

J.D. was taken by his mother to a local medical facility to receive treatment for physical injuries after the fact, the filing states.

His parents allege they were forced to relocate, J.D. has been required to attend an elementary school for children with emotional disturbances, and his psychological injuries from the assault appear to be permanent, the filing states.

Jacquot is also accused of accessing J.D.s private and protected school records afterwards to try and justify his assault on a child, the filing states. He is accused of knowing J.D. had a disability and knowing he was protected under his individualized education plan.

Despite his unlawful use of excessive force, Jacquot was allegedly not disciplined or even re-trained by the Laramie County Sheriffs Department, the filing states.

Deputy cleared

This incident was investigated by the former Laramie County sheriff, and Jacquot was cleared in this use of force incident, Sheriff Kozak told the Star-Tribune.

Jacquot is still employed; however, no longer assigned as a school resource officer, Kozak said.

When Kozak took office in January, he suspended the school resource officer program until best practice policy was implemented, he said.

The sheriff offices previous video system did not allow deputies to delete video, so allegations that the body camera footage was tampered with are an inaccurate assumption, Kozak said.

A forensic review of the body camera used in this incident was conducted, and the vendor reported that the camera failed, Kozak said.

Thus, we replaced all body worn cameras with new cameras supplied by a different vendor, he said.

This cannot be justified, attorney says

This federal lawsuit seeks to hold the sheriffs office and Jacquot responsible for a brutal and unconstitutional attack on a disabled eight-year-old-boy, as what happened cannot be justified or normalized, attorney Haltzman told the Star-Tribune.

No child should be subjected to the brutality and humiliation this 8-year-old boy endured at the hands of any adult, let alone a police officer who is sworn to uphold the law and protect the rights of citizens, he said.

This incident caused unspeakable levels of trauma to J.D. and his family, Haltzman said. Almost two years later, they are still putting the pieces of J.D.s life together.

And a part of that rebuilding process depends on the Laramie County Sheriffs Office taking responsibility, he said.

The healing process is going to require Deputy Jacqout and his department to take accountability for what they did to this child, his parents and the community at large, Haltzman said.

J.D.s parents are requesting a declaration that the Laramie County Sheriffs Office violated their sons rights under the U.S. Constitution, the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act, the filing shows. They are also requesting compensatory and punitive damages.

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.
Six University of Wyoming sorority sisters have filed to appeal a federal judges decision to dismiss their lawsuit against Kappa Kappa Gamma for admitting the schools first transgender member.

On Monday, the sorority sisters attorneys filed a brief in the U.S. 10th Circuit Court of Appeals, alleging U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson disregarded their organizations bylaws, applied the wrong law and ignored factual assertions when he threw out their lawsuit in August.

The question at the heart of this case is the definition of woman, a term that Kappa has used since 1870 to prescribe membership, in Kappas governing documents, the brief states. ...And Kappas Bylaws plainly exclude biological men from membership.

Jaylyn Westenbroek, Hannah Holtmeier, Allison Coghan, Grace Choate, Madeline Ramar and Megan Kosar asked a federal judge last spring to remove transgender member Artemis Langford from UWs Kappa Kappa Gamma chapter and permanently ban any man from joining, the complaint states.

They accused Kappa Kappa Gamma of misleading the sorority members, breaching its housing contract and not following bylaws and policies, the complaint states.

Johnson ultimately dismissed their case, ruling the Court will not define woman, he wrote. He ruled that the six sorority sisters could not force a private, voluntary institution to use their definition of woman, which does not include transgender people. Its the organizations First Amendment right to determine its own bylaws, including how to define woman, Johnson ruled.

In Mondays request to reverse Johnsons decision, the sorority sisters attorneys argued their organizations founders intended woman to limit membership to biological females, the brief states. And Kappa Kappa Gamma leadership has never asked its membership to change that definition.

Since its founding, Kappa has provided a self-described single-sex haven in the largely co-ed environment of college campuses, the brief states.

The bylaws also state any new member shall be a woman, the brief states.

In 2015, Kappa posted a position statement that stated Kappa is a single-gender organization comprised of women and individuals who identify as women, the brief states.

The sororitys counsel has allegedly referred to its position statement to justify Langfords admission into the sorority, the brief states.

Kappa Kappa Gamma can only change membership criteria by amending its bylaws, and amendments must be approved by a two-thirds majority, the brief states.

The sorority sisters attorneys argue the bylaws were not amended to permit biological males, so Langfords admission was a violation of its contract, the brief states. Subsequently, Johnson erred when ignoring longstanding principles of corporate law that require courts to enforce the articles and bylaws of a voluntary corporation, the brief states.

Kappa Kappa Gamma and Langford have yet to file a response.

Rachel Berkness, an attorney representing Langford, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday. Attorneys representing the six sorority sisters and an attorney representing Kappa Kappa Gamma also did not immediately respond to requests for comment Tuesday.

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.
GLOBAL growth is expected to remain weak, with the Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) region projected to experience 2% GDP growth in 2023. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) suggests that T&Ts economy is on a broad-based recovery path. Explore these and other international, regional and local economic insights from the Chambers Trade & Business Development Unit.
The national security advisers of South Korea, the United States and Japan will meet in Seoul this weekend to discuss trilateral cooperation on North Korea, and other regional and global issues, the presidential office said Wednesday.

The meeting between National Security Adviser Cho Tae-yong and his U.S. and Japanese counterparts, Jake Sullivan and Takeo Akiba, respectively, will be held Saturday in line with an agreement reached by President Yoon Suk Yeol, U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during their Camp David summit in August.

The three sides plan to have "in-depth" discussions on ways their countries can work together trilaterally on regional security issues, including North Korea, global issues and economic security, the presidential office said in a press release.

Also Saturday, Cho and Sullivan will lead the inaugural session of the Next Generation Critical and Emerging Technologies Dialogue, which Yoon and Biden agreed to establish during their bilateral summit in April.

On Friday, Cho will hold bilateral meetings with Sullivan and Akiba to discuss issues of mutual interest. (Yonhap)
THE Merriam-Webster dictionary defines icon as a person or thing widely admired, especially for having great influence or significance in a particular sphere.

Subhas Panday believes his brother, Basdeo Panday, was such a person... and then some.
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CRUCIAL INVESTMENT: BpTT president David Campbell, from left, Energy Minister Stuart Young; president of the National Gas Company Mark Loquan, and senior vice-president and country chair, Shell Trinidad Adam Lowmass sign the agreement for a new unitised commercial structure for Atlantic LNG in London yesterday. Looking on is Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, centre standing, flanked by executive vice-president, gas and low-carbon energy at bp,

Anja-Isabel Dotzenrat,

left, and executive

vice-president, LNG at Shell Cederic Cremers.
"I ordered to immediately publish and take to all schools, lyceums, municipal councils, public establishments, universities and in all homes of the country the new Map of Venezuela with our Guayana Esequiba. This is our beloved map!" - Nicolas Maduro
The Ministry of Works and Transport is being asked by citizens why it issued no warning to d
It was one of the best tributes (eulogies) I saw or heard, and perhaps the best speech Presi
Wrought iron bars of Woodford Square frame members of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force as they stand at attention during the playing of the National Anthem outside the Red House for the ceremonial opening of the third session of the 12th Parliament on September 19th. -Photo: ROBERT TAYLOR
Prosecutors on Wednesday raided the home of the head of online news outlet Newstapa in connection with its reporting of an alleged fake interview given in 2021 to discredit then opposition presidential andidate Yoon Suk Yeol.

The Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office sent prosecutors and investigators to the residence of Newstapa's chief, Kim Yong-jin, in the morning to seize materials related to the coverage of the interview on the eve of last year's presidential election.

The case centers on allegations that Kim Man-bae, a suspect in the scandal-ridden Daejang-dong development project pushed in the mid-2010s by opposition leader Lee Jae-myung as then mayor of Seongnam, suggested in his interview with Newstapa-affiliated journalist Shin Hak-lim in September 2021 that Yoon was the mastermind behind the Daejang-dong scandal.

The interview was reported by Newstapa and other media, beginning March 6, 2022, just three days before the presidential election, confusing voters. Kim paid 162 million won ($123,500) to Shin days after the interview. (Yonhap)
Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs and a key GOP lawmaker think the stars may actually align this year for major changes in laws designed to keep teachers in the classroom.

On one hand, on Tuesday a task force formed by the governor announced what could be considered the usual recommendations: Raise salaries, cut workloads and reduce stress. Some of the proposals mirror those that have been around for years, only to wind up on a shelf.

But Hobbs, who convened the task force, insisted the outcome will be different this time.

Were putting the administration behind what we see as the issues, Hobbs told Capitol Media Services. As for governors who have promised such before her, They havent prioritized this, she said.

Hobbs immediately took action Tuesday on one of the task forces suggestions, putting $2 million of COVID-relief funds under her control into an existing induction program that provides a structured package of support for teachers including regular mentoring, feedback and time for collaborative planning with colleagues.

The stage is set for possible legislative action, as well. The Republicans who control the Legislature are acknowledging that salaries, the top issue cited by teachers who leave the profession, must be addressed. Theyve brought out their own plan to boost pay by $4,000 across the board.

Sen. Ken Bennett, R-Prescott, who chairs the Senate Education Committee, said he is pleased by the report and recommendations in the Hobbs task force report.

Im very excited and committed to not doing the same old thing, Bennett said. He knows whats been done in the past; he served as president of the state Board of Education before being elected the first time to the Senate in 1998 where he was president for two years.

Weve been doing yesterday for 20, 30 years, he said. And were getting the same results.

Getting it done is going to require all parties to commit to getting different results going forward, and to put aside some political bickering, Bennett said.

Consider, he said, the $4,000 proposal to improve teacher pay. While the details havent been released, its based on the idea of using dollars from the state land trust, which until now have gone to boost overall education funding. The proposal would instead earmark them for salaries.

Unfortunately, some of the response was Its a shell game or Its a whatever, Bennett said. Why not be a little more of good faith and have people come to the table and say, Well, yes, lets figure out how to raise teacher salaries by $4,000.

He said that would raise Arizonas public teachers pay from below the national average to a bit above it. And that would position us to better attract teachers, Bennett said.

Hobbs pronounced herself optimistic the recommendations will gain traction at the Republican-controlled Legislature.

None of these proposals should be politicized, she said.

Proposal sidelined last session

Still, it may be hard to keep the politics out of it.

Rep. Judy Schwiebert, D-Phoenix, pointed out she sponsored legislation last session to have the state raise teacher salaries to the national median. It also would have added $4 an hour to the pay of school counselors and librarians.

It was assigned to the House Education Committee but never got a hearing. Schwiebert took a swat at GOP lawmakers she said sidelined her plan even as they pursue expensive programs they favor.

It would have cost $1.2 billion, which, as it turns out, is the same amount that were spending on the Empowerment Scholarship Account voucher program that were not getting any information about as far as are vouchers doing the job for us, Schwiebert said.

She isnt alone. Hobbs continues to argue the universal vouchers program needs to be scaled back. But any mention of moving money away from them has proven to bring talks to a halt.

Marisol Garcia, president of the Arizona Education Association and a member of the Hobbs task force, said what may help force legislative action this time is the report itself, which was based on interviews with nearly 7,800 current educators and more than 700 who quit.

Of those still working, nearly 70% said they had considered quitting in the past 12 months.

Retention crisis

In the 2021-22 school year, 58% of Arizona schools struggled or entirely failed to fill teacher vacancies on campus. And as of this year, 18% of Arizona educators surveyed said they were planning to leave the profession, compared with 8% nationally.

Thats why Hobbs said in January that she formed the task force.

The reality is we dont have an educator shortage, what we have is a retention crisis, she said at the time. There are too many amazing professionals who had to leave a career they love because of the uncompetitive salaries, onerous policies, and unfunded mandates that rob educators of the joy of teaching.

That turnover comes with a cost to students.

The report cites studies that teacher effectiveness continues to steadily increase until the 12th year, with the largest gains in student achievement occurring during a teachers first five years in the classroom.

But in Arizona, a third of all teachers have four years or less experience, with fewer than half having 10 or more years in the classroom.

Im hoping that, institutionally, bringing these numbers forward and giving the legislators actual data, as well as people showing up and talking to them, that there could be a chance for this to actually move through the Legislature, Garcia said.

Health care, parental leave issues

Bennett noted that the task force found there are other ways to put more cash into the pockets of teachers. One is by taking less out of their checks in the first place.

Contributions to healthcare plans can range widely across the state and depend on the health plan that each school district or charter school chooses, the report says. Family and dependent coverage can be up to five times the contribution required for individual employees and was cited frequently by educators as a concern.

That presents an opportunity for legislative intervention, Bennett said.

Maybe theres some way to say if a district or a charter school employs you as a full-time teacher, were going to pool all of those people into one health insurance program, he said, a move that could save teachers thousands of dollars a year.

There are other non-cash options.

One recommendation asks the governor to support policies that provide educators and school personnel with 12 weeks of paid parental leave for childbirth, adoption or fostering.

That idea is not foreign to Hobbs. Earlier this year she directed the state Department of Administration to provide state workers with up to 12 weeks off for any new baby in the house during a 12-month period.

Hobbs had the authority to order that for state workers by executive order. But extending the benefit to employees of schools would require either that districts offer it themselves or that the Legislature act  and, potentially, financial assistance.

Stress and workloads

Still, the report finds that money, while at the top of the concerns of educators, is only part of the problem.

Eighty percent of former educators cited feeling burned out and 73% cited unable to have a healthy work-life balance as the top factors contributing to their decision to leave the classroom, the task force said.

The report also cites a Gallup poll that says those working in K-12 education report the highest rate of physical and mental stress of all U.S. professions.

These high rates are caused by many factors, including workload, student behavior, and lack of administrative support, according to the task force.

The solution to that, the report says, includes decreasing class sizes or student loads and ensuring teachers have adequate preparation time. But this, like many of the other recommendations, comes at a cost which was not computed in the study.

Hobbs praised the panel for its work.
PHOENIX  A federal judge has tossed a bid by a would-be GOP candidate for president to keep Donald Trump off the ballot in Arizona, saying the challengers presidential campaign is not really serious.

Judge Douglas Rayes acknowledged that John Castro has in fact qualified to have his name on the ballot for the states March 19 presidential preference primary. But the judge said that does not give him the right to try to keep off the name of the former president.

It does not convince the court that Castro is genuinely competing with Trump for votes or contributions, or that he has any chance or intent to prevail in that election, Rayes wrote in the 12-page ruling late Tuesday.

Instead, the judge concluded the only reason Castro is running is to give him legal standing to pursue his claims in Arizona and other states  hes filed at least 27, none of which Castro has won  that Trump is barred from being president based on his actions in and around the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.

Castro contends that Trump, in his last days in office, provided aid and comfort to those who engaged in insurrection by invading the Capitol. Under the 14th Amendment, which disqualifies for office anyone who engaged in insurrection or gave aid and comfort to U.S. enemies, Trump should not be allowed to run, Castro has argued on his own behalf, without a lawyer.

Rayes said all that is legally irrelevant.

He said the U.S. Constitution says the only people entitled to sue in federal court are those who have suffered an injury that is concrete, particularized and actual or imminent.

There would need to be some evidence that Trumps appearance on the ballot would harm Castro, Rayes said.

Castro offers no evidence that he has Arizona supporters, that he has received contributions from anywhere in the country, or that he would gain support or contributions if Trump could not appear on the ballot, the judge wrote.

For example, the judge said, documents filed with the Federal Elections Commission between Jan. 1 and Sept. 30 of this year show Castro reported only $678 in contributions, including $677 he donated to himself.

Rayes said Castro has tried to manufacture controversy to influence his decision.

He noted that on Oct. 27  the same day a federal judge in New Hampshire threw out Castros challenge there because he lacked standing to sue  Castros campaign purchased a digital billboard in downtown Phoenix, about three blocks from the federal courthouse here. The message began running on Nov. 13, the day before the hearing before Rayes.

The judge was not amused.

If (the Constitutions) injury-in-fact requirement is to serve as a meaningful restraint on judicial power, it must allow federal courts to recognize such shenanigans for what they are  an attempt to manufacture a controversy in order to pursue a political agenda through litigation, Rayes wrote.

Castro has admitted he has no illusions about winning the Arizona presidential preference election, much less becoming the Republican Party nominee in 2024.

I know there is very little chance I could actually win now, he told Capitol Media Services last month before the hearing. Still, he said, there is nothing wrong with building name recognition for a possible future bid.

And in the meantime?

I want to be commissioner of IRS, he said, saying he has two degrees in tax law.

Castro, in a request to have Rayes reconsider his ruling, said the judge is trying to justify the unprecedented and novel theory that the court can determine who is and is not a genuine candidate.

Rayes said in his ruling thats not the case.

To be clear, the courts conclusion is not based on political prognostication or a perception that Castro is unlikely to win, the judge wrote.

Instead, it is based on a finding that Castro is not truly running for office, he continued. His campaigns raison detre is to contrive standing in order to pursue litigation to keep Trump off the ballot.

Castro said that doesnt tell the whole story.

In his motion asking for a reconsideration, he acknowledged that his contention Trump is constitutionally disqualified from running for president because of the 14th Amendment was the initial motivation for his own candidacy.

That motivating principle led plaintiff on this journey, and plaintiff is now doing his best, entirely on his own, to seriously pursue the presidency of the United States, Castro wrote.
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:

One of the many new programs of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is the Carbon Reduction Program. The intent of this program is to reduce greenhouse gases that are emitted from automobiles, trucks, and motorcycles.

Transportation has grown to 43% of regional GHG pollution from 32% in 2010 and is the second largest source overall according to the 2021 Greenhouse Gas Inventory for eastern Pima County.

The federal government is providing Arizona and in particular Pima County with millions of dollars to fund activities that reduce tailpipe emissions. Pima Association of Governments (PAG), our metropolitan planning organization, has already received well over $4 million of the $11M promised CRP funding.

The CRP funding is very flexible and gives Pima County a wide variety of options to reduce GHG. ADOT recommends three areas of focus: reduce fuel consumption through electrification of vehicles, reduce driving by promoting non-motorized travel, carpooling and transit, and reduce emissions from construction and road maintenance.

So what is PAG doing with millions of CRP dollars? According to Farhad Moghimi, the executive director of PAG, the money is being spent on hiring consultants to build a foundation by collecting data, setting benchmarks and creating a plan or two. The problem is that these expenditures wont reduce one ounce of GHG.

I believe the foundation, as well as viable program elements, for a rigorous CRP already exists and doesnt require millions of dollars to create.

First of all the Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report, produced by PAG with data going back to 1990, can provide a baseline level of greenhouse gas emissions and the data to create benchmarks. Starting with this pre-existing report will save millions of dollars in consulting fees and allow local governments some resources to develop their own programs.

Next, Mr. Moghimis predecessors created a rideshare program that reduced driving and a Clean Cities program that reduced fuel consumption, two of the three ADOT priorities; however, Mr. Moghimi has systematically dismantled the rideshare program and totally eliminated the Clean Cities program. Lets resurrect and enhance these programs by redirecting CRP monies from consulting fees and data collection to activities that reduce GHG.

The rideshare program can be quickly enhanced with more outreach to the community, incentives to reduce driving, education about the various transportation options, partnerships with the large employers and jurisdictions, and an improved website. Also, bring back the low cost and very popular Guaranteed Ride Home safety net for all those commuters doing the right thing by carpooling, biking, walking or riding the bus to work.

A Clean Cities type program will promote electric vehicles and other alternative fueled vehicles, fleet conversions away from gas, and the development of the necessary infrastructure for electrification. In a recent presentation of the 2021 Greenhouse Gas Inventory report for eastern Pima County, PAG staff concludes that GHG can be drastically reduced by the electrification of cars, trucks, and buses; yet there is not one electrification project in the PAG CRP budget.

Finally, spend some money, as promised, on the vanpool program, by offering discounts for riders and incentives for drivers. Vanpools are leased vans that seat from six to 14 people and can be a cost effective transportation option for regular commuters. The low ridership Sun Tran express routes can be converted to vanpools saving thousand of dollars each month.

PAG currently supports only nine vanpools compared to 322 vanpools in the Reno area. Mr. Moghimi reduced the vanpool subsidy back in 2019 from $500 to $300/month. With all the recent price increases and no increase in the PAG subsidy, vanpooling just isnt affordable for the vast majority of commuters.

The PAG Regional Council meets on Dec. 7 at noon and will be discussing the CRP funding. Its up to us to provide the oversight, demand accountability and transparency, and ensure there is a regional benefit.
Local high-school students add their voices to the call for clean energy and a reduction in dependence on fossil fuels.

The following is the opinion and analysis of the writers:

Energy

I am a freshman at Saint Augustine Catholic High School and weve been learning about energy. Global warming is very concerning at the range it has been increasing as a problem. I believe we should stop burning fossil fuels and find new ways to get energy. For example here in Tucson, it gets really hot and sunny, we would use solar panels which are a way of clean energy. In windy environments, we could use windmills. But the problem is that these energies can be expensive and not everyone can afford them. Sadly, our resource of energy is harming the world in general, our ice is melting and animals could go extinct. Our earth is slowly getting hotter, in the future  would it be too hot for us too? We should get in action and all of our work for our earth and its different amazing ecosystems.

Evelyn Reyes Armenta

East side

Clean electricity

Hello, I am a student who has been studying electricity in class and I would like to share my views on how we can produce electricity without harming our planet. I believe we should try to increase our use of wind and solar energy as it makes clean electricity without burning fossil fuels like coal and oil that damage our atmosphere and cause global warming which harms our ecosystem.

One of the reasons I think we should use wind and solar energy is because of the effects the alternative fossil fuels have on us and our planet. When we burn fossil fuels we release gas into the air that gets trapped in our atmosphere and causes global warming which harms us and our planet. Global warming causes the ice in the Arctic to melt making the water levels rise. This can be dangerous because of the many communities that are by the ocean  the rising water could force them out of their homes making them move to already overpopulated areas.

Eli Phelps

Sahuarita

Humans creating electricity

I am writing this letter so we humans can realize how we are still harming our earth.

The burning of fossil fuels leads to global warming. It has affected the Arctic, we have much less ice each decade. We should use more solar panels. I say more use of solar panels because it is a way to reduce the amount of climate change. Also, solar panels do come with financial benefits and cost savings.

We have the solutions available to us. Why not use them and benefit from them?

Celeste Durazo

East side

Electricity on the planet

Energy use in the United States and earth is a problem right now. The earth is getting hotter and people dont realize it. Theres even evidence that the ice in the Antarctic is melting. Burning coal to spin turbines is affecting the earth by the greenhouse gases. There are other ways of spinning a turbine, like solar panels, windmills, and nuclear power plants. Yes, we have that already on Earth, but we need more, what we have now is not enough. Ice is melting, animals are dying, and habitats are being affected. We need to convert to more efficient solutions to not only save ourselves but to save our future on earth.

Nico Martinez

East side

Energy waste

I believe that we have an issue with energy waste. I believe that we do not have enough renewable energy sources, such as solar panels. Most of Tucsons energy comes from fossil fuels. Things such as coal and oil. Fossil fuels contribute to acid rain and global warming. Something we can do is change to solar panels as it is renewable and does not have dangerous waste. It is also cheaper than normal electricity. Another source of energy we could use is windmills, but it may be a problem because there are places with more wind than others. Fossil fuels can not be renewed fast as it takes millions of years to make oil and coal. Solar panels now can be used for 30-40 years. Solar panels should be the future of energy as they will prevent global warming and give us cheaper bills.

Sergio Lopez

East side

Solar energy

As a freshman at St. Augustine High School, I believe we should start converting to solar energy. We as a worldwide community are destroying our world by burning fossil fuels. Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide which is a greenhouse gas. Those greenhouse gasses trap heat in our atmosphere making our earth hotter every year. We can see it affecting our earth the ice is melting in Antarctica. There is physical proof! Too much heat can affect us humans too. Now there are ways to make this process slower. For example, solar energy. Solar energy is cleaner and safer. Although producing and buying all the solar panels would be expensive, I believe it would be a good investment. Solar energy is cleaner making it better for our future generations. They also last 25 to 30 years and by the time we will need to buy new ones we will have made enough money for it. Our world is in danger! Let us stand up and fix it.

Baldoemro Vejar Mungarro

East side

Creating electricity

Dear Editor,

I am writing this letter to address the issue of creating electricity. There is a lot of controversy behind the way of creating electricity. There are plenty of alternative ways to create electricity but currently, it is being made by burning coal and oil. We need to find harmless ways to generate electricity because the world is being affected, especially glaciers, which are melting as shown in photographs. If our planet continues to get warmer, every living thing on the earth will be affected. The world getting hotter leaves us at a higher risk of being exposed to heat and more recurring natural disasters.

I believe humans should use solar energy. Solar panels are averaged at $2.43 per watt and using them can save thousands off the yearly electric bill and they last up to 35-40 years. We have plenty of sun in Arizona with over 300 days of the year being sunny.

Marina Gutierrez

East side

How much longer?

Dear Daily Star editor,

I spent the first half of my high school semester studying the effects of different types of energy on the world. I have argued in classroom debates that, most of the forms of energy we have been using are ineffective to the way we produce energy, because of the pollution.

In my personal opinion, I think the cleanest form of energy we can produce is through wind turbines. Why spend time creating toxic waste with nuclear power, or emitting harmful gases through burning fossil fuels? That is no way to live, creating more and more harmful ways to produce energy just to make a few more dollars. Please, consider creating more clean energy through wind turbines. I am tired of hearing the news complaining that the world is getting hotter, yet none of them have a solution. We need to listen to the input around us and use it to our own advantage.

Abrielle Leyva

East side

Planet warming

So we know how the planet is warming up and will continue to do so if we dont do anything about it. I was thinking that maybe we can use solar energy as a safe option rather than burning coal and oil, since both things pollute the air and the climate gets warmer when it shouldnt be. With solar energy, we will have a positive impact on the environment, as most energy and life on the planet depends on solar energy which can give a better quality of life and and not pollute the air or our surroundings. Fossil fuels (like coal, gas, and oil) contribute to global warming and cause acid rain which harms the planet because of the release of nitrogen oxides into the air. We can look for safer options to produce energy and electricity to ensure that we keep the planet safe so that we all can have a better quality of life.

Yvanna Zozaya

East side

Solar energy

I am writing this letter because I believe that the world should switch to solar energy. We should change because burning oil and coal is making our planet warmer. Not everyone realizes what this does to our planet. Do you not see that the ice is melting? If we switch to solar energy the atmosphere wont get any thicker. This is important for the future of our planet.

I believe we should stop using coal and oil and use solar energy instead. Coal and oil send carbon dioxide into the air making the atmosphere thicker and thicker. The impact of ice melting is that there will be more water than before. We need to take care of our planet or we will all go instinct. But for this to work all of humanity must work together to fix this problem. Therefore coal and oil is bad for planet Earth but solar energy is not, so please we need to make a change soon for the future of our planet.

Nicholas Carvajal

Southeast side
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:

When Kevin McCarthy had a big microphone, he often used it to decry the supposed two-tiered system of justice in America. His replacement, Mike Johnson, enthusiastically agrees. Their nearly singular example is the comparison of the criminal charges against former President and GOP front-runner Donald Trump with what they allege to be kid-gloved proceedings against Hunter Biden. They insist Trump is treated more harshly because he is a conservative. He really isnt, but thats not the point. They want you to believe ALL conservatives are treated more harshly than progressives by the DOJ.

Lets just agree that there are multiple tiers in the application of justice in this country. Fundamentally, there is one tier for people who commit crimes, and another for those who do not. We might therefore urge the GOP to focus less on their petulant perceptions of victimhood, and more on maybe not committing crimes!

Their favorite victim, Donald Trump, would have avoided prosecution by:

Not taking classified documents to his shower at Mar A Lago, then lying about it and attempting to hide them from the FBI.

Not over inflating his real estate valuations by as much as 300%.

Not attempting to overturn his loss in a free and fair presidential election by:

Knowingly making false claims of massive voter fraud

Knowingly sending an angry and armed mob to the capital to interrupt electoral proceedings (where people died, by the way).

Knowingly creating and promoting false slates of presidential electors in multiple states.

And, lest we forget, there were his transgressions with E. Jean Carroll which landed him in civil court. There are other women, and other allegations of similar transgressions.

The Justice Crusaders in the GOP abhor presidential preference in the administration of justice. Surely, then, a new investigation is coming into the $2 billion investment Jared Kushner secured for his business from MBS and the Saudi Royal Family barely 6 months after his term as presidential advisor to his father-in-law, Mr. Trump, concluded. Youll recall, Kushners presidential advisory portfolio included US government business with Saudi Arabia. When does that blockbuster show start?

There are other tiers of justice in the US. Who is more likely to receive a competent and effective defense, a wealthy defendant accused of embezzlement or a working-class defendant accused of robbery? How does a defendants race affect access to fair justice? Is anyone waiting for the GOP to get to work leveling those playing fields?

Research psychologists have identified 4 dimensions that indicate a Victimhood Mindset, which include: Constantly seeking recognition for ones victimhood, moral elitism, lack of empathy for the pain and suffering of others, and frequently ruminating about past victimization. That all sounds very familiar.
James D. Watts Jr. Tulsa World Scene Writer Follow James D. Watts Jr. 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

Even in something as volatile as the restaurant business, dreams can come true.

Chef Sheamus Feeley said it had long been his dream to open a restaurant in Tulsa, which was the "big city" he and his family would visit for special occasions when he was growing up in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

It has taken almost a year, but Feeley's dream has come true in the form of Noche Woodfired Grill & Agave Bar, which opened in late November in the Vast.Bank building downtown.

Noche is also something of a dream come true for diners in search of dishes that take some of the most familiar dishes in Mexican cuisine and transform them into something unique and memorable.

Feeley's inspiration for the menu at Noche, which was created in collaboration with the restaurant's executive chef, Brian Green, and chef de cuisine, Marco Herrera, was Mexico City, itself a melting pot of cultures and cuisines.

"I think a lot of Americans have a somewhat limited idea of Mexican cuisines," Green said. "And I have to admit, until I began doing the research for this job, I didn't have a real concept of how diverse this cuisine can be.

"We're using a lot of ingredients and flavors that many people would not find in most Americanized Mexican food, and that can surprise some people," he said. "But it's all part of this sense of Old World authenticity that we want our food to have."

Franklin Jaramillo, who came to Tulsa after two decades working in restaurant management in New York City to be general manager of Noche, puts it this way.

"When people ask me what to try, I usually suggest our Posole Verde," he said. "I think it's a dish that really captures what Noche is all about because it is so well-balanced in flavors, in textures, even in aromas. I've recommended it several times, and no one hasn't liked it."

While we did not take Jaramillo's recommendation when we paid a visit to Noche with a group of friends, we did sample a fairly wide variety of dishes.

We were presented, soon after we were seated, with an amuse bouche of a small dish of pureed black beans, topped with an arbol chili salsa and toasted sesame seeds and accompanied by totopos  what most Americans would call tortilla chips. The salsa added a sharp heat to the smooth and richly flavored beans. The chips themselves were just about perfect: substantial enough to convey just about any topping, yet light and crisp in texture without any excess salt or greasiness.

Our bouches now appropriately amused, we ordered two starters: the "Chicharron" de Ribeye ($19), and Hazel's Crushed Tamale Queso ($13).

The "chicharron" were bite-sized chunks of deeply marinated steak atop a thin spread of guacamole, served with tostadas. The marinade included soy sauce, and it's likely that our serving had spent a little too much time in said marinade, as the salt level was quite high. But the taste and tenderness were enough to keep me going back for additional bites.

The queso, which Green said is based on a recipe by Feeley's mother, was thick with bits of tamales and savory beef, chili sauce and rich cheese. Not a drop of this was left behind.

For entrees, two of the party went for the wood-fired fajitas, one ordering shrimp ($29), the other pecan-smoked mushrooms ($21). Other possibilities are chicken "a la brasa" ($23), marinated New York Strip steak ($34), and pecan-smoked short rib ($39).

The fajitas came in heated cast-iron bowls, along with deeply caramelized onions and a whole roasted jalapeno chili. A separate dish contained made-in-house flour tortillas.

The in-shell shrimp were perfectly cooked, with just a hint of smokiness. The mushrooms  portobello caps cut into strips  were exceptional, meaty and flavorful and strikingly seasoned.

Another of our party went for the plancha-seared ruby trout ($35), which came served with both a guajillo-arbol salsa and an avocado-tomatillo salsa. The trout was perfectly cooked, although the robust sauces meant one had to search a bit for the flavor of the fish.

My choice was the beef tenderloin tampiquena ($38). "Tampiquena" usually implies a skirt steak smothered in cheese and onion. At Noche, it's a more of a tournedo of beef, grilled to the requested medium rare with a salty crust. The cheese element was a single cheese enchilada, made with queso Chihuahua and a Parmesan crema, and a sauce made with guajillo and ancho chilies.

Two very simple, straightforward dishes, which were perfectly prepared, and in the case of the enchilada, using some authentic (the soft, melty queso), yet unexpected ingredients (the Parmesan in the crema).

The steak and the trout came with sides of what Noche calls its "golden rice." Unlike typical "Mexican" rice, this was bright orange in color, flavorful and with just a touch of bite to each individual grain.

We also sampled two desserts, the cola cake ($9) and the tres leches tostada ($10). The deep chocolate icing, garnished with bits of sea salt, was the best part of the cake. Noche's variation uses thin, crisp wafers, layered with what seemed to be pastry creme, topped with whipped cream and toasted coconut and lashings of caramel sauce  messy but delicious.

Noche occupies an L-shaped space on the ground floor of the Vast.Bank Building. Tables and banquettes surround a large bar area in the main dining area. The other area includes booths and high-top tables capable of seating six diners each. At the end of this space is the Agave Bar, showcasing the restaurant's extensive collection of agave-based spirits.

"This area can also serve as a place where people can just hang out with friends and enjoy some awesome liqueurs," Green said. "And yes, most of our walls are designed to work like garage doors, so when the weather is more clement, we can open everything up so that the whole place is a kind of oversized patio."

Green came to Tulsa in 2018 to serve as executive chef at Peacemaker Lobster & Crab, and also La Tertulia, two Tulsa restaurants founded by James Beard Award-winning chef Kevin Nashan.

However, the stresses of the job, especially in dealing with all the changes and challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic times, had taken a toll, and Green was considering giving up cooking altogether.

"I had a pretty severe case of burnout," he said. "I had planned to take a year off and make some decisions, but after about six months, I realized I couldn't just walk away from a career to which I had given 21 years of my life."

It was about that time that a mutual friend suggested Green get in touch with Feeley.

"What really attracted me to this concept was Sheamus had a great attitude about everyone's work-life balance," Green said. "Our group's name is Food is Family Hospitality, and that's a good indication of how things are run here. He's given all of us the tools to run a great program, to be able to hire awesome talent at every level in the organization."

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Korean 15-year-olds were among the top performers in mathematics, reading and science among their peers from the member nations of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), a report showed Wednesday.

The findings were made in the latest report by the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), operated by the OECD.

In the 2022 report, PISA measured the abilities of 15-year-olds from a total of 81 countries to use their reading, mathematics and science knowledge and skills to meet real-life challenges, including 37 OECD member nations.

A total of 6,931 students from 186 schools in Korea participated in the survey.

Korean students scored 527 points in mathematics, 515 points in reading and 528 points in science, far higher than the averages of 472 points, 476 points and 485 points among the OECD nations, respectively.

Among the students from all countries surveyed, Korean students ranked between third and seventh in mathematics, between second and 12th in reading, and second and ninth in science. The rankings were broadly set in consideration of sampling errors.

Pit against peers from the OECD member nations, Korean students came in between first and second place in mathematics, first and seventh in reading, and second and fifth in science.

"During years of disruption during which many countries and economies saw student learning outcomes decline, Japan, Korea, Lithuania and Chinese Taipei were able to maintain or improve learning outcomes, fairness in the distribution of learning opportunities, and student well-being," the OECD said on its website.

Compared with the previous PISA report from 2018, the 2022 scores for Korean students were one point higher both in mathematics and reading and nine points higher in science.

In the meantime, the OECD averages fell from 489 points to 472 in mathematics, from 487 to 476 in reading and from 489 to 485 in science.

Of all the countries surveyed, Singapore had the most points in all three categories, with 575 points in mathematics, 543 points in reading and 561 points in science, the report showed. (Yonhap)
Christmas concerts

Hankering to hear holiday music? Youre in luck this weekend.

Mannheim Steamroller is bringing a Saturday, Dec. 9, tour stop to BOK Center. Tulsa-based music artist J.D. McPherson, who tours annually with material from his 2018 Christmas album, Socks, is coming to Cains Ballroom on Saturday, Dec. 9. Osage Casinos Skyline Event Center is hosting a Marie Osmond Christmas show Sunday, Dec. 10. Cains also will be the site of The Edge Christmas Concert on Sunday, Dec. 10 featuring Young the Giant, Wilderado and Beaches, but the show is sold out.

For tickets to BOK Center events, go to bokcenter.com. For tickets to Cains Ballroom events, go to cainsballroom.com. For tickets to Skyline Event Center shows, go to osagecasino.com.

Easton Corbin

Country music artist Easton Corbin, whose hits include the No. 1 songs A Little More Country Than That and Roll With It, will perform Saturday, Dec. 9, at Hard Rock Live, the concert venue of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

For tickets, go to hardrockcasinotulsa.com.

American Aquarium

American Aquarium is returning to Cains Ballroom for a Friday, Dec. 8, performance. American Aquariums B.J. Barham once said this about the historic venue: All my Tulsa friends think Im weird for nerding out every time we get to stand on that stage.

For tickets, go to cainsballroom.com.

The Ivy

The Oklahoma synth-pop duo The Ivy will perform Friday, Dec. 8, at the Vanguard as part of a fall headlining tour.

The Ivy burst onto the music scene in 2017 when the songs Gold and Have You Ever Been in Love went viral, climbing Spotify charts and receiving millions of streams. Pulling influence from emo/punk bands like Green Day and Blink-182 as well as R&B and the blues, The Ivy has crafted a unique style mixing lofi-bedroom sounds with rock guitars or R&B inspired instrumentals.

For tickets, go to thevanguardtulsa.com.

BA Holiday Arts and Crafts Festival

The Holiday Arts & Crafts Festival returns to New Orleans Square in Broken Arrow Dec. 9. Enjoy a heartwarming celebration of the most magical season of all. With a delightful array of vendors offering perfect gifts for your loved ones, engaging kids activities, hot cocoa and Santa Claus himself, this event promises pure holiday joy.

Shepherds Cross Christmas

Celebrate the holiday is a rustic way, with Shepherds Cross Christmas at the Farm, at Shepherds Cross Farm, 16792 E. 450 Road, in Claremore.

In addition to the various activities of a working farm that visitors may observe, the farm will host a live walk-through Nativity scene, observe shepherds tending their flocks, observe demonstrations of spinning, weaving and other fiber arts, stroll through a display featuring more than a miles worth of Christmas lights, and enjoy fresh cracked or candied pecans and walnuts from trees grown on the farm.

Admission is free, but donations are suggested for certain packages, ranging from $5 to $25.

Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, Dec. 7-9 and 14-16. For more information: shepherdscross.com.
Tim Stanley Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Tim Stanley Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

To look into her husbands eyes and have him meet her gaze again was the best present Santina Edmond could have wished for.

The first thing I said to him was Merry Christmas, she said. Her husband, Jelke Edmond, had spent nearly two weeks hospitalized in a coma but came out of it on Christmas Day 2022.

The result of a hemorrhagic stroke, Jelkes outlook while in the coma had not been good. Doctors were unsure if the 36-year-old father of six would survive, or if he did, what his future would look like.

But one year later, most of the questions have been answered.

And as they prepare for another Christmas  grateful that this year they get to spend it together as a family  the Edmonds are hopeful that the worst is behind them.

While its been a difficult year, Jelke has come a long way with therapy and is showing few lingering effects from the stroke.

Even more promising, he was recently was able to start back to work.

They are easing me back in slowly, said Jelke, a machine operator for Kimberly Clark in Jenks. Its a big step.

With Jelke unable to work for most of the year, the family tried to get by on Santinas checks from a local aviation services provider, where she has a job in customer service.

Jelke received disability benefits through his job, but at a reduced rate.

The situation has made the past year a struggle for the couple, as they try to raise and provide for their children.

They have four at home  Nadasha, 13, Sarah, 11, Praise, 8, and Prince, 3  along with two adult children in Oregon.

Natives of the Marshall Islands, Jelke and Santina originally met in Oregon. They were part of the immigrant community there, before moving to Seattle.

The family pulled up stakes a few years ago to come to Oklahoma when Jelke decided to attend Rhema Bible College in Broken Arrow.

Oklahoma is home now for the Edmonds. Their three school-age children attend Broken Arrow Public Schools.

When she thinks back to a year ago, Santina is amazed at how far her husband has come.

Doctors told me it was 50-50 that he would survive, she said of her husbands stroke and coma.

Even after waking, he still faced a long road. Jelke remained hospitalized for weeks, followed by a lengthy stay at a rehab facility.

There was a lot of going back and forth from home with the kids to work to the hospital. God gave me strength and peace to do all of that, Santina said, adding that family helped out with the children.

The doctors and nurses at Saint Francis and rehab at St. John  we appreciate them all, she said.

Jelke doesnt remember much of anything, he said, about those first few hours after waking from the coma.

That includes his wife wishing him a merry Christmas.

But things will be different this Christmas, he said. They will all be together, and he will get to make new memories that will stay with him.

I am just grateful to be here, he said.

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Donate to Project Santa This year's Project Santa fundraising goal is $200,000. The fund, an annual partnership between the Tulsa World and Salvation Army, supports Tulsa families in need. Donations may be made by sending a check or money order to Project Santa, c/o Tulsa World, P.O. Box 1770, Tulsa, OK 74102. Donate online: tinyurl.com/projectsanta2023 Read the Project Santa series: go.tulsaworld.com/projectsanta
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

On the eve of his retrial, Jimcy McGirt for the first time Tuesday admitted to sexually abusing a child in 1996 in exchange for a 30-year prison sentence with credit for time he has already served.

The surprise plea change came six days before his re-trial in Muskogee federal court on three felonies related to the alleged sex abuse of a then 4-year-old girl. Prior to Tuesday, McGirt had denied abusing the child during both his state and federal trials on the issue.

McGirt has been behind bars for over 26 years, according to state Corrections Department records.

Court documents filed in the case Tuesday indicate that both sides considered various factors in reaching the agreement, including the age of the witnesses and the impact their testimony might have on their well-being as well as McGirts willingness to accept responsibility.

A spokesman for the U.S. Attorneys Office in Muskogee could not comment on the plea, which is still subject to judicial approval. A press release issued Tuesday evening confirmed that McGirt had entered a guilty plea to one count of aggravated sexual abuse in Indian Country and noted that he will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service until a sentencing hearing.

Richard OCarroll, McGirts attorney, told the Tulsa World that his client had been given life sentences following two previous trials, but now he should be released soon after he is sentenced due to the time he has already served.

Now he is going home, OCarroll said.

A federal appeals court in June granted McGirt, 75, a new trial after finding that the trial judge gave an improper instruction to the jury during his first federal trial.

A federal grand jury in August 2020 indicted McGirt on two counts of aggravated sex abuse of a minor in Indian Country and one count of abusive sexual contact with a minor in Indian Country.

A Muskogee federal court jury in November 2020  at the end of a three-day trial  convicted McGirt of abusing the girl. U.S. District Judge John H. Heil III later sentenced McGirt to serve three concurrent life terms.

McGirts 2020 federal trial followed the U.S. Supreme Courts July 2020 landmark opinion that determined the state of Oklahoma did not have jurisdiction when it tried him in state court in 1997 because the Muscogee Nation reservation  where the alleged abuse occurred  had never been disestablished by Congress.

The ruling overturned McGirts three state felony convictions, multiyear prison terms and life-without-parole sentence for one of the convictions because the state of Oklahoma did not have criminal jurisdiction to try him since he was a member of the Seminole Nation and the alleged crime occurred within the Muscogee Nation reservation boundaries.

Subsequent state appeals court rulings have since expanded the McGirt ruling to now include the reservations of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Quapaw, Peoria, Ottawa and Miami nations, covering much of eastern Oklahoma.

Since the McGirt ruling was issued, dozens, if not hundreds, of state criminal cases had to be retried in federal or tribal court.

The ruling has also touched off a string of other issues  from whether the state has the right to arrest a nontribal member for crimes on reservation land against a tribal member (it can), to whether the city of Tulsa can use a 19th century-era federal law to issue traffic tickets to tribal members (it cannot).

McGirts sentencing date has not been set.

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McGirt v. Oklahoma: Supreme Court decision and aftermath May 11, 2023: Ottawa, Peoria and Miami reservations still exist, court rules Feb. 26, 2023: Tulsa County Public Defenders Office in 'better shape' than most Feb. 2, 2023: Court strikes down challenge by Choctaw Nation couple Aug. 19, 2022: State backs Tulsa on McGirt-related traffic ticket appeal July 23, 2022: Oklahoma AG tells state prosecutors to pursue Indian country cases July 12, 2022: Cherokee Businesses to contribute $10 million for expansion of tribe's law enforcement July 4, 2022: Prosecutors diving into cases involving non-tribal members victimizing tribal members June 29, 2022: Oklahoma can prosecute non-tribal citizens on tribal land June 19, 2022: Power generating company drops McGirt-based challenge to property taxes June 2, 2022: Cherokee Nation drops plan to turn north Tulsa property into a courthouse April 24, 2022: Gov. Stitt concerned about what McGirt ruling doesn't say, its far-reaching interpretations April 13, 2022: City can still issue traffic citations to Native citizens March 31, 2022: Gov. Stitt calls McGirt ruling 'preposterous' on Fox News' 'Tucker Carlson Tonight' March 9, 2022: City of Tulsa says McGirt ruling makes tribal members second-class citizens Feb. 23, 2022: Supreme Court won't hear McGirt arguments from state of Oklahoma Feb. 22, 2022: Federal lawsuit challenges Oklahoma's right to tax Native Americans Feb. 7, 2022: Gov. Stitt says Thats not fair' regarding McGirt-related case at State of the State Feb. 2, 2022: 'It is not too late for us to begin anew,' Muscogee Nation Chief says Jan. 22, 2022: Supreme Court lets McGirt ruling stand, will consider letting Oklahoma share jurisdiction Jan. 9, 2022: Most released due to McGirt have been charged either federally or tribally, Tulsa World analysis finds Dec. 14, 2021: Tribal leaders sound off as Stitt seeks change to hunting, fishing license compacts Dec. 12, 2021: Cherokee Nation disputes state's claim McGirt ruling has caused 'chaos' Oct. 28, 2021: Tulsa Indian Affairs Commission asks city to withdraw brief on McGirt Oct. 21, 2021: State appellate court extends McGirt ruling to include Quapaw Nation Sept. 18, 2021: Oklahoma AG asks Supreme Court again to reverse or limit McGirt Aug. 27, 2021: Gov. Kevin Stitt says McGirt legal decision is state's 'most pressing issue' Aug. 26, 2021: Man at center of McGirt landmark legal case sentenced to 3 life sentences Aug. 6, 2021: State asks U.S. Supreme Court to overturn landmark McGirt decision Aug. 1, 2021: U.S. House rejects $154 million for tribal judicial systems July 19, 2021: Gov. Stitt sues federal government July 19, 2021: Osage Nation seeks court affirmation that its reservation also was never disestablished July 13, 2021: Contentious McGirt forum ends early after shout-down from audience July 9, 2021: Cherokee Nation highlights expansion of legal system on anniversary of ruling July 8, 2021: 'McGirt v. Oklahoma Community Impact Forum' set for July 13; tribal leaders irked June 10, 2021: '80s serial rapist's claim he is 'Indian' for criminal jurisdictional purposes rejected May 26, 2021: U.S. Supreme Court signals they could limit ruling May 19, 2021: State-Tribal Litigation Fund bill passes May 17, 2021: How Cherokee Tribal courts are handling the surge in cases May 11, 2021: Oklahoma congressman's bill would allow tribes to compact with state on criminal jurisdiction May 10, 2021: Cherokee, Chickasaw tribal chiefs announce support for federal legislation April 29, 2021: State appeals court overturns two more death sentences April 28, 2021: AG seeks to intervene in case of power plant objecting to property taxes April 15, 2021: Appellate court rejects claims of two who failed to prove ancestry April 14, 2021: Chickasaws question Gov. Stitt's rhetoric about McGirt impact April 9, 2021: Four serving life sentences in state prison to get new trials April 8, 2021: Death-row inmate's state conviction, sentence are in jeopardy April 8, 2021: State appellate court dismisses five more cases on jurisdictional grounds April 6, 2021: Cherokee AG says some cases dismissed by ruling could go unretried April 1, 2021: State appellate court expands McGirt ruling March 31, 2021: 'Fracture' in criminal system created by decision, Tulsa County DA says March 18, 2021: Manslaughter conviction for ex-Tulsa Police officer overturned March 14, 2021: Broken Arrow power plant claims county has no authority to levy property taxes March 11, 2021: Court ruling means hundreds of state criminal cases will be shifted to tribal or federal courts March 11, 2021: Cherokees expanding criminal justice system for larger role March 7, 2021: Former principal chief isn't happy as McGirt decision hits home March 4, 2021: Rogers County judge dismisses over 100 criminal cases Feb. 1, 2021: Gov. Stitt takes on McGirt ruling during State of the State address Jan. 28, 2021: McGirt decision impact on state oil and gas industry examined during OEPA briefing Jan. 23, 2021: Oklahoma governor urges tribes to begin negotiating issues Jan. 15, 2021: Tribes want Congress to allow criminal justice compacts with Oklahoma Jan. 8, 2021: Former Tulsa police officer's double-jeopardy, statute-of-limitations claims denied Jan. 4, 2021: McGirt decision results in record number of criminal federal filings in 2020 Nov. 7, 2020: Federal jury finds McGirt guilty in retrial Oct. 23, 2020: Gov. Stitt panel releases principles for state-tribe relations Oct. 5, 2020: McGirt ruling could have impact on state tax collections Oct. 1, 2020: Attorney General Bill Barr meets with Cherokee Nation leadership, local federal prosecutors Aug. 29, 2020: Man charged in 1990s rapes freed due to McGirt ruling Aug. 14, 2020: McGirt makes federal court appearance in child sex abuse case Aug. 7, 2020: McGirt-related murder cases increase Tulsa federal court's caseload Aug. 1, 2020: Feds file charges against two men whose state convictions were overturned July 29, 2020: Attorneys general for Oklahoma, Cherokee Nation discuss ruling on 'Let's Talk' July 21, 2020: Gov. Stitt forms commission to study impact of decision on state July 20, 2020: Oklahoma AG tracking scores of appeals that could be affected by decision July 17, 2020: Attorney general, tribes reach agreement on jurisdictional issues July 15, 2020: Ruling could affect case of mother charged with killing children July 14, 2020: Homicide in Tulsa 'first real test' of decision July 12, 2020: Decision to have little impact on nontribal residents, TU law professor says July 10, 2020: Tribal law expert calls ruling 'most important' in state history July 9, 2020: U.S. Supreme Court's 5-4 decision December 2019: U.S. Supreme Court to hear McGirt v. Oklahoma McGirt v. Oklahoma: Supreme Court decision and aftermath






Kevin Canfield Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Kevin Canfield 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

Tulsa County is demanding that the The Oasis Projects return approximately $157,000 in ARPA funding that was spent on a consultant, payments to a local charity, and subwoofers, window tinting, smoked tail lights and other amenities for a van purchased by the nonprofit, according to a letter from the District Attorneys Office.

The letter, approved by county commissioners on Monday, also calls on the foundation to provide documentation regarding $30,000 in Oasis Fresh Market gift cards that were purchased with ARPA funds and distributed by the foundation, and notes other potential breaches of its agreement with the county.

In each instance, the expenditures either did not adhere to the foundations mission as stated in its application to the county, failed to meet American Rescue Plan Act funding eligibility requirements, or were not documented adequately or properly, according to the letter.

The violations listed above are by no means an exhaustive list, but merely the largest and most concerning, the letter states.

Oasis Fresh Foundation, which does business as The Oasis Projects, is the nonprofit arm of Oasis Fresh Market. The for-profit grocer operates a store at 1725 N. Peoria Ave.

A.J. Johnson, founder of Oasis Fresh Market and executive director of The Oasis Projects, told the Tulsa World in an email on Tuesday that the foundation was blindsided by the countys action but is happy to repay some of the funds.

We were awarded the contract in November 2021 and began work immediately due to the need, Johnson said. Fourteen months later we got additional guidelines from Tulsa County and were asked to sign it.

Yesterday we learned that one of contractors was not an allowable expense and therefore the expenditure needs to be repaid.  So its clear we have no problem working with the county to come to a resolution.

Johnson earlier provided a detailed timeline outlining the process the foundation went through to obtain the ARPA funding and the steps it has taken to submit and resubmit more than 400 pages of supporting documentation in response to the countys inquiries.

Johnson said the foundation contacted the District Attorneys Office after receiving the demand letter and that an assistant district attorney acknowledged that the countys finance office had not gone through all of the latest documentation provided by Oasis Projects.

Johnson added that he has requested a meeting with county commissioners to clarify the expenditures referenced in the demand letter.

Since backup documentation and justifications have been provided for every line item according to their very specific requests, Johnson said.

He added that, as far as the foundation knows, we have acted in good faith with the funding per the original proposal that was submitted and approved prior to receipt of any funds.

We will continue doing the work of serving people and meeting the needs of others, Johnson said.

A county official said late Tuesday that the county has reviewed all of the documentation provided by the foundation to date.

According to the letter from the DAs Office, the $157,000 comprises $145,043 paid to consultant Marc Jones; van renovations of $5,830; and benevolence cash payments totaling $6,038 to Families in Crisis.

The Oasis Projects has 30 days to repay the $157,000 in disallowed expenditures or to arrange a payment plan. If proper documentation for the $30,000 in gift cards is not available, the funds must be repaid within 30 days.

Failure to repay the disallowed expenditures, or failure to provide documentation for the expenditures in question, could lead to suspension or termination of the grocers agreement with the county.

The foundation could also be required to pay back other expenditures that are found not to qualify under the terms of the agreement or expenditures that have not been properly documented.

County commissioners have approved $1 million in ARPA funding for The Oasis Projects, $500,000 of which has been distributed to the foundation.

The foundations intended use for the ARPA money is to help fulfill its work to reduce food insecurity, provide healthy nutrition education, improve chronic disease risk and prevalence and other efforts aimed at assisting the citys most vulnerable populations, Johnson said.

But the DAs letter asserts that some of the foundations ARPA expenditures were not germane to that stated mission. It notes, for example, that Jones was paid a flat fee of $10,000 a month without any breakdown of the hours spent each month, any documentation justifying such a fee, or evidencing its appropriateness to the funding mission.

The consulting expenses included a trip to New Orleans, LA, a hotel room and several costly meals, the letter reads.

It goes on to say that the trip expenses were removed from the foundations listed expenditures after it was mentioned by the countys monitoring firm.

County commissioners on Monday said they were working with The Oasis Projects to obtain the documentation they need to fulfill their obligations under the ARPA agreement.

We very much believe in the mission of the Oasis Fresh Foundation but are obligated to the Treasury Department to ensure the funds are spent in the manner that meets their requirements, commissioners said in a prepared statement.

Mondays action comes about a month after the firm behind a proposed downtown development deal that was to include an Oasis Fresh Market failed to meet its deadline for purchasing the property.

At the time, Mayor G.T. Bynum said that the developer, Flaherty & Collins Properties Inc. of Indianapolis, had cited concerns about the grocer as a reason for not going forward with the project.

Earlier this year, the Oklahoma Legislature passed on a request to provide $30 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding to expand the Oasis Fresh Market model.

The companys plan to use the funds to build four more stores in underserved areas stalled after concerns were raised regarding the leadership structure of The Oasis Projects.

The online publication NonDoc highlighted those concerns in a February article.

The article noted that some members of the nonprofit foundation were surprised to learn when contacted by the publication that they were listed as board members.



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To celebrate the release of the Wilma Mankiller Barbie, the Cherokee Nation community and former principal chiefs family gathered for an event Tuesday in Mankillers honor.

The celebratory event in Tahlequah featured speakers including Mankillers daughter Felicia Olaya, her partner Charlie Soap, her grandson Kellen Quinton and current Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., among others.

During his speech, Hoskin held up an image of the Wilma Mankiller Barbie as he told a story about Mankiller being disrespected by a group of men early in her time as tribal leader. She was the first female to lead a major tribal nation, serving 1985 to 1995.

Wilma Mankiller came into that room and was not welcome. ... They tried to diminish or intimidate her, he said. I dont know the names of those men. I dont know if history recorded their names, but I do know that Wilma Mankiller is on a Barbie doll today, so what does that say?

The comment was met with roaring applause from the crowd of more than 350 Cherokee citizens and community members at the Chota Center.

The Barbie dolls, a collectors item from the Barbie Inspiring Women series, were not available at the event, though some in attendance had brought their Mankiller dolls in tow. Toymaker Mattel said Soap was asked to be involved in the dolls design, inspired by a photo he took of the former chief.

Wilma would think its kind of funny that people would be taking the time to comment on her likeness to the Barbie doll, Soap said during the event, because Wilma didnt want to be compared with other people. Im not saying that in a negative way. Its just Wilma would be kind of laughing about that.

Olaya said her mother wanted her legacy to be helping people restore faith in themselves.

I have two granddaughters myself, and the thought of watching them play with their great-grandmothers Barbie just touches my heart, Olaya said.

Kellen Quinton spoke during the event about his grandmothers selfless and giving attitude.

She truly put herself in front of everyone, and she cared very little about herself. ... And she cared not about being famous, Quinton said. She cared not about any other element than making the link of the person next to her and the people around her much better.

He went on to quote Gloria Steinem, Who famously said, In a just world, Wilma would have (gone on to become) president (of the United States).

An advocate for social justice, Mankiller was given the Presidential Medal of Freedom award in 1998.

The addition of the Wilma Mankiller Barbie to the Inspiring Women series is not only a fitting tribute to an incredible woman, but it also serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the limitless potential there is for every Indigenous girl that has the courage to dream big, Hoskin said in a statement.

To honor Mankillers legacy, the Cherokee Nation announced a $25,000 contribution to the American Indian Resource Center, which provides cultural and educational opportunities to nurture the growth of Indigenous communities.

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A tripartite real estate joint venture including Vietnams TT Capital Investment Corporation (TT Capital) and Japanese partners was launched in Ho Chi Minh City this week with the aim of building and marketing about 1,000 affordable apartments each year.

TT Capital, a Ho Chi Minh City-based real estate firm established in 2021, entered into a joint venture with two real estate Japanese firms, namely Cosmos Initia Co. Ltd. and Koterasu Partners Pte. Ltd., in a ceremony held in the city on Tuesday.

The three parties expect to invest about US$150 million over the next five years, after which they will build about 1,000 affordable apartment units every year and offer them at less than VND2 billion ($82,300) apiece.

The joint venture will develop its first residential building project in Di An City of Binh Duong Province, a northern neighbor of Ho Chi Minh City, to provide 2,000 apartments, which cover 50 - 60 square meters each, at the aforementioned price, or VND35 million ($1,440) per square meter.

The capital contribution for the tenement project was completed last month and the project will be commenced officially in mid-2024.

Primary apartment selling prices from 2021 to the first half of 2023 in Binh Duong increased 11 percent year on year, reaching up to VND40 million ($1,640) per square meter in the second quarter, CBRE Vietnam said.

Addressing the ceremony, Nguyen Trung Tin, chairman of TT Capital, said that cooperation with its two Japanese partners will help the company improve its capital source, further promote its existing capability, and quickly launch new products to the market.

The joint venture is committed to creating housing products of excellent quality to enhance customers living experience with our outstanding services, Tin told the ceremony.

TT Capitals aspiration is to become a property developer providing the most livable urban towns in Vietnam and the Southeast Asian region, the firm said on its website.

The total local housing demand in Ho Chi Minh City for the period 2021-30 is estimated to be around 37 million square meters but the supply of affordable housing in the city and its surrounding areas remains limited, Nguoi Lao Dong (Laborer) newspaper cited housing analysts.

Therefore, when the joint ventures target of 1,000 apartments priced under $82,300 each is realized, it will considerably contribute to the supply of the affordable housing segment not only in Binh Duong but also in Ho Chi Minh City and its neighbors.

A subsidiary of Japans Daiwa House Group, Cosmos Initia, founded in 1969, engages in real estate sales, rentals, and brokerage activities in Japan.

It has some subsidiaries that participated in developing a number of real estate projects in Vietnam.

Koterasu is an enterprise established in 2020, specializing in cross-border real estate asset management, consultancy on international expansion for Japanese clients, and other fields.

Founder and CEO of Koterasu Masakazu Yamaguchi is a member of the board of Ho Chi Minh City-based An Gia Real Estate Investment and Development Corporation, with which Koterasu signed an agreement in September to invest $10 million.

Speaking at the ceremony, Japanese Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City Ono Masuo wished the joint venture successful operations, contributing good value to the housing development in Vietnam, according to local media.

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Many auto brands and distributors are rushing to open more showrooms in the Vietnamese market out of expectations of a strong rebound into consumption following falling loan rates, and more incentives on taxes in the lead-up to the end of the year.

Auto trading firms have seen opportunities amid the ongoing economic downturn, spending millions of U.S. dollars expanding their auto showroom systems and ramping up distribution channels.

These companies report that the consumption of goods and the demand for products typically surge in anticipation of the Lunar New Year holiday, due in February.

A representative of Motor Image Saigon Company, which is an authorized distributor of Subaru in Vietnam, said that apart from its showroom in Ho Chi Minh City, the firm opened another in Hanoi in early December.

This is one of the largest Subaru showrooms in Hanoi. It can house up to six different Subaru auto models.

Besides, the Subaru distributor is set to inaugurate a 3,500-square-meter showroom in Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi in the second quarter of 2024.

Also, to serve customers before the year-end holiday, an auto showroom of Land Rover, a British car brand, was put into operation in August.

Similarly, other local car distributors such as Haxaco, City Auto, and Savico are racing to inject money into their showroom systems nationwide.

Aside from trading Mercedes - Benz autos, Haxaco distributes MG cars.

The firm has passed a plan allowing its subsidiary to add two MG stores in northern Bac Giang Province, and Can Tho City southern Vietnam.

The two auto shops, slated for operation in early 2024, will have 100 workers each and are expected to sell 1,000 units a year.

Haxaco revealed that its distribution expansion plan will cost over VND25 billion (US$1.03 million).

Meanwhile, City Auto, a distributor of Ford and Hyundai, is planning to open six more showrooms to expand its system to 15 auto shops in Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, Tien Giang, Phu Yen, and Binh Phuoc Provinces by 2025.

Multiple auto trading firms believe that the demand for cars will bounce back for the rest of the year due to lower lending rates and preferential policies on taxes.

Commercial banks will continue to lower lending interest to encourage customers to get consumer loans.

In late June, the national government issued a decree to extend a 50-percent reduction in registration fees for locally manufactured and assembled automobiles until the end of December, which might beef up sales of Hyundai, Kia, VinFast, and Peugeot cars.

Many automakers and distributors have started to revise down prices of multiple car models before the end of the year to stimulate consumption.

The Subaru Forester is priced at VND869-929 million ($35,690-38,150) each, down VND220-270 million ($9,036-1,088) each.

Honda Vietnam is applying a 50-percent registration fee reduction program to all models.

The price of the Hyundai Santa Fe manufactured in 2022 has dropped by VND210 million ($8,630).

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Vietnams aviation sector is growing in tandem with its economic development as the geographical location definitely gives a benefit to the Southeast Asian country, said Majid Al Falasi, country manager of Emirates in Vietnam.

With both tourism and transportation demands increasing after the COVID-19 pandemic, the carrier expects Vietnam to remain an important market in Southeast Asia.

Responding to Tuoi Tre News via a video call, Falasi affirmed that Vietnam has a favorable position to connect with the world by both air and sea.

Please tell us about the upcoming plans that Emirates has for its operation in Vietnam after COVID-19.

I have been in Vietnam for almost three months, going on four months. I am delighted to be here, looking forward to the upcoming time in Vietnam. The country has a lot of things to offer. It has a lot of unique features.

There are lots of potential and a lot of things that the country has and can provide. At the moment for Emirates, we are looking at getting things back to pre-COVID levels. Then from there, we'll look forward to growing.

We see travel demand is increasing in Vietnam. We saw a huge volume of cargo during the pandemic, specifically from the Vietnamese market, which indicates that it is one of the critical markets in the region. We used to have more than 30 aircraft coming to Vietnam during that COVID-19 period.

The manufacturing industry, the bilateral agreements that are being signed, and the relationship between other countries are all things that help us as an airline. Many corporations in manufacturing industries are available in the country, which definitely supports us from a cargo perspective.

The cargo business is now more stabilized. It is more similar to pre-COVID levels.

In 2022 and the beginning of 2023, we achieved numbers higher even than pre-COVID levels [for passenger transport]. This is understandable because during the pandemic there were a lot of people who were just kept at home and could not travel. So they were very eager to travel, specifically from the year 2022 to the beginning of 2023. During this period, we saw numbers even higher than pre-COVID levels.

Some claim that Vietnam has the dilemma of 'good location, bad infrastructures,' which prevents the country from playing a more crucial part as a commercial air transport hub of Southeast Asia and the wider region. What are your thoughts?

Looking at the global tendency now, you see a lot of big companies opening up factories in Vietnam. Numerous foreign investments are coming into Vietnam. The geographical location definitely gives a plus to Vietnam.

I think Vietnam has the potential to grow. I believe Vietnam can be one of the region's biggest economies in the next few years.

I think the geographical location of Vietnam plays a good role in attracting investment as Vietnam has a long coastline and many ports. So this helps those manufacturers and investors when they do their costing. So the country is very well connected in terms of air and sea transport. That is why Vietnam has the potential and I do believe in the vision for the future.

I have recently read in the news that there is a US$1-billion project for a Lego factory, for example. It shows that this country has something special and unique to offer, which is driving the investment. Foreign investors are coming here to do the manufacturing.

I understand that Samsung is already present in Vietnam and they have a big manufacturing business there. When you see big players in the global market have a presence in Vietnam, it clearly shows the strength of this country.

I do not see it [the infrastructure] as a weakness. I think this is an opportunity to develop and it is a starting point for development.

We, on the other hand, help take these products globally. Whatever the product is, with our aircraft and our procedures, we ensure that the whole streamline is safe. We ensure that you will receive your products exactly as we receive them. We assure you that the process Emirates follows maintains the highest standard in terms of the cargo business.

So challenges are there, and opportunities are there, but the situation and the potential of the country are super high, which is shown by foreign investors' investments in this country.

Speaking of new investments, the Vietnamese government has set its ambition in the semiconductor industry. So how can foreign airlines like Emirates contribute to this goal?

Building the supply chain for these semiconductors is a complex task. We integrate this consideration into all our standards and measures while undertaking the process.

Emirates contributes to Vietnam's ambition and the global semiconductor supply chain through an extensive global network, reliable and flexible cargo services, and temperature-controlled solutions.

These are all things that Emirates already has. Security and safety measures are also something that is always on our top list and priority. Customer experience and expectations are always our highest priority. Collaboration with the local stakeholders is also taken into consideration.

The strength of the airline lies in its pivotal role as a valuable partner in supporting Vietnamese endeavors to elevate its position in the semiconductor industry and on a global stage.

What is Emirates' business development orientation and vision in Vietnam in the next five to 10 years?

Our biggest goal at the moment is to support the growing demand for air travel to and from Vietnam and contribute to the country's GDP by creating jobs for Vietnamese talent across various business units and in different roles. We have different setups that we manage to support them.

At Emirates, there are now more than 160 Vietnamese employees in varied business units including cabin crew, Emirates outstations, customer services, and other roles.

Is Vietnam a regional aviation center?

Falasi said Vietnam has the potential to become a new regional aviation center as novel plans are being implemented.

The government's vision for airport development, as articulated in an announcement, aligns with a forward-looking perspective for the year 2050. The ambitious plan entails the construction of 30-33 new airports, signaling a significant stride toward bolstering the country's connectivity and overall infrastructure, he explained.

"This will give a push overall. Now the vision clearly says that they want 97 percent of the people to be 100 kilometers away from any of the airports, which helps people and businesses stay connected.

Air transport locally will be easier. Being in Ho Chi Minh City, I also saw the news about the new Long Thanh International Airport. The government's commitment to this project not only indicates a dedication to modernizing infrastructure but also opens up promising opportunities for international airlines.

So we believe things and actions are already being taken. It is just a matter of time for them to be implemented. Yes, of course, that's precious!

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ROME -- Lamborghini has reached a deal with unions to introduce a four-day week for its production workers, the labour associations and the company said on Tuesday, as more manufacturing groups re-consider the structure of the work week for their employees.

The FIOM and FIM-CISL unions said the agreement is "historical" as it is the first in the automotive industry in Europe to achieve a significant reduction in working hours without cutting wages, but rather increasing them.

The move comes at a time when many companies and public offices are changing how people work to improve employee well-being and promote company savings after the COVID-19 pandemic and rising costs.

Similar four-day week schemes adopted in other European countries, such as Britain, have found that employees worked more in less time, job retention and recruitment improved and sickness levels went down.

"Work less and work better, this is the principle that guided this negotiation, and which is part of a comprehensive reasoning," a statement from FIOM and FIM-CISL said.

Production workers on a rotating two-shift schedule will alternate a five-day week with a four-day week, overall cutting 22 days of work each year, the unions said.

Those on a three-shift rota, which includes night shifts too, will have a five-day week alternated with two four-day weeks, cutting their yearly working days by 31.

The agreement reached with Lamborghini is part of a broader renegotiation of the framework contract used for workers of the car maker, a subsidiary of Germany's Volkswagen, which also includes 500 new jobs, an increase of annual wages and further labour benefits.

In terms of pay, the deal includes a 50-percent increase in the current variable bonuses paid to workers as well as a one-off bonus of over 1,000 euros ($1,082) to be paid this month.

On Tuesday, Intesa Sanpaolo said that 70 percent of almost 30,000 people who had the option of asking to work a four-day week had done so, with requests on the rise. In January, Italy's largest bank opened to shortening the working week to curb energy bills, the first such move by a major Italian employer.

Last week, eyewear maker Essilorluxottica agreed with labour unions to test a four-day working week model in its Italian plants, for 20 weeks per year.

Other Italian groups, including aerospace and defence group Leonardo, are also in talks with unions to extend flexible working benefits to their production sites.

($1 = 0.9244 euros)
Sixty-nine million children -- or more than one in five -- live in poverty in the world's 40 richest countries, UNICEF said in a report released Wednesday, blasting Britain and France for their particularly bad standings.

That's despite a drop in child poverty rates in the periods from 2012 to 2014 and 2019 to 2021, by around 8 percent in the 40 European Union and Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) wealthy countries assessed.

"This is equivalent to around 6 million children out of a total child population of 291 million," said UNICEF Innocenti, the United Nations agency's research arm.

But at the end of 2021 there were still more than 69 million kids in poverty in those countries.

"For most children this means that they may grow up without enough nutritious food, clothes, school supplies or a warm place to call home," said Bo Viktor Nylund of UNICEF Innocenti, highlighting the impact of such struggles on young people's physical and mental health.

The UNICEF figure is based on relative poverty, which is around 60 percent of the national median income, often used in developed countries to establish their own poverty levels.

The report called for action to ensure children's well-being and for political will among the countries surveyed, stressing that a country's' wealth did not automatically lift its children out of poverty.

Since 2012, the biggest setbacks have been seen in some of the richest countries.

Britain saw a 19.6 percent jump in child poverty -- or half a million extra children, and France's rate went up 10.4 percent.

In the United States, the number of poor children has fallen by 6.7 percent, but more than one child in four still lives in relative poverty.

And the poverty rate in 2019-2021 was twice as high as in Denmark, a country with a similar per-capita income.

Underlining the link between child poverty and economic inequality, the report also highlights the greater risk of poverty for children from single-parent families and minority backgrounds.

In the United States, 30 percent of African American children and 29 percent of Native American children live below the national poverty line, compared with only one-in-10 non-Hispanic white children.

In the EU, a child with parents of non-EU nationality is 2.4 times more likely to live in poverty.
More than half of new job positions in 2022 were taken by senior citizens, while young people took up about 1.15 percent of the year's newly added posts, data showed Wednesday.

Korea added 870,000 new jobs in 2022, marking a 3.4 percent on-year increase to bring total jobs to 26.45 million, according to the data compiled by Statistics Korea.

Of the total, jobs for those aged 60 and older rose the most by 440,000, followed by 260,000 new jobs for people in their 50s.

The number of jobs for people in their 40s grew 100,000 last year, and job posts for those in their 30s added 50,000. People in their 20s and younger saw 10,000 more jobs in 2022.

"Demand for senior citizens to take jobs in the health and social welfare sector has grown," an agency official said. "The fall in the sheer number of people in their 20s and younger also led to the fewest job additions among the age group."

Of the total jobs, 24 percent were taken by people in their 50s, followed by those in their 40s with 23.8 percent and people in their 30s with 20 percent.

Men took up 56.7 percent of the country's total jobs in 2022, the data showed.

Of the newly added jobs, 11.4 percent were in the government and unincorporated organizations, while 47.4 percent of the jobs were from incorporated companies. Privately owned entities took up 31.4 percent of the total jobs in 2022.

By sector, the health and social welfare sector added 120,000 jobs on-year last year, followed by the wholesale and retail sector with 150,000 new openings. The manufacturing sector had 90,000 more jobs, while the financial and insurance field shed 10,000 jobs in 2022.

Some 5.07 million jobs, or 19.2 percent, were in the manufacturing sector, and the wholesale and retail fields accounted for 12.4 percent of total employment. The health and welfare sector had 9.6 percent, or 2.53 million jobs.

The report was compiled based on information about subscriptions to forms of social insurance, and the data do not match the number of the employed in 2022 as one person can be employed in multiple positions.

The number of employed people came to 28.08 million in 2022, up 816,000 from a year earlier, according to the separate data by the agency. (Yonhap)
A software park project, carrying a price tag of VND986 billion (US$40.5 million), in Da Nang City, central Vietnam is currently on hold on account of obstacles to relevant regulations.

The project was commenced in 2020 on 28,000 square meters of land in Hai Chau District.

It was expected to provide some 6,000 IT and digital technology jobs.

However, its execution has been suspended although the construction is incomplete.

At a recent press conference of the administration in Da Nang, Le Son Phong, deputy director of the municipal Department of Information and Communications, said the city considered the software park as a key project.

After several unsuccessful tenders, the city decided to use its budget to implement the project.

As a result, it is a public asset.

However, the national government has yet to issue regulations on the management, use, and exploitation of public assets which are IT infrastructure facilities, specifically software parks, Phong explained.

A VND986 billion ($40.5 million) software park is currently on hold in Da Nang, central Vietnam. Photo: Tuoi Tre

The coastal city has repeatedly proposed supplementing the regulations.

Until March 21 this year, the prime minister gave the nod to the addition of the rules to a draft decree on special policies on investment, finance, budget, and autonomy for Da Nang.

Enterprises registration for spaces inside the software park is beyond the facilitys capacity although it remains unfinished.

The Da Nang Department of Information and Communications has received numerous proposals from enterprises and investors on the software park expansion and policies supporting their digital transformation and innovation.

The early operation of the software park will create a new motivation for Da Nangs development. Photo: Tuoi Tre

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Read what is in the news in Vietnam today:

Society

-- A fire broke out at a house down an alley on Le Van Sy Street in Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City on Tuesday evening, killing two people and causing extensive property damage.

-- A magnitude-3 earthquake struck with a focal depth of approximately 16km in Thuan Chau District, Son La Province, northern Vietnam at 7:39 pm on Tuesday, prompting residents in the vicinity of the epicenter to feel tremors.

-- While undergoing repairs, a fence at Nguyen Hue Elementary School in Ha Giang City of Ha Giang Province, northern Vietnam collapsed on Tuesday, resulting in the tragic death of one person and injuries to three others.

-- The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transport has proposed to the municipal Peoples Committee the resumption of operations for the high-speed ferry service at the Bach Dang Wharf in District 1, connecting the city with Vung Tau City in neighboring Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, following its suspension in April due to an expired license.

-- The Urban Traffic Management Center of Ho Chi Minh City recently released 10-month traffic monitoring data, revealing that Cong Hoa Street in Tan Binh District is handling traffic pressure surpassing 150 percent of its service capacity.

-- Ho Chi Minh City needs VND86.15 trillion (US$3.55 billion) to lengthen its first metro line to the neighboring industrial-hub provinces of Dong Nai and Binh Duong, the municipal Department of Transport said.

-- Fifteen students at Nui Sap Town Middle School in Thoai Son District, An Giang Province, southern Vietnam suffered poisoning after consuming candies of unknown origin purchased from a classmate last week, authorities said on Tuesday.

Business

-- VinAI Artificial Intelligence Application and Research JSC unveiled an open-source research project focusing on a large language model designed specifically for Vietnamese, named PhoGPT, during the AI Day 2023 in Ho Chi Minh City on Tuesday.

-- Vietnamese tech giant FPT Group and Faeger, a company pioneering the development of decarbonized agriculture in Japan, recently entered into a memorandum of understanding to advance environmentally friendly agriculture through carbon credits in Vietnam.

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Professor Jonathan Van Tam, who was awarded a knighthood by Queen Elizabeth in January 2022 on the New Year's honors list for his services fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, arrived in Vietnam on Tuesday to present anti-epidemic measures.

His working trip to Vietnam was made at the invitation of the Tam Anh Research Institute under Tam Anh Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City.

He is a British healthcare professional specializing in influenza, epidemiology, vaccinology, antiviral drugs, and pandemic preparedness.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the professor of Vietnamese origin served as deputy chief medical officer for England.

His first Vietnam visit drew the attention from the UK Embassy in Vietnam and local scientists thanks to his key role in studies on infectious diseases that have taken a heavy toll on the Southeast Asian nation.

He was set to participate in various medical activities at major healthcare facilities in Vietnam.

Among them will be a medical discussion session attended by scientists at the Tam Anh Research Institute.

He will also meet with the leaders of the Vietnamese Ministry of Health, AstraZeneca, and the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit in Vietnam.

Professor Jonathan Van Tam (L, 6th) visits Vietnam Vaccine JSC (VNVC) in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Phong Lan / Tuoi Tre

Prof. Tam will provide local doctors and medical specialists with solutions to vaccination and the fight against diseases.

The world has experienced five pandemics linked to influenza and infectious diseases over the past 100 years, he said.

The next pandemic might be associated with infectious diseases, and the timing of its occurrence remains uncertain," he warned.

Proactively conducting research and taking action to prevent it are vital."

The Tam Anh Research Institute expected that his trip would provide an opportunity for Vietnamese scientists to engage with global science and participate in international research projects.

Prof. Tam was impressed by the high number of Vietnamese children and adults accessing high quality vaccines, said a representative of the hospital.

In 2021, the Vietnamese Embassy in the UK honored the professor for his advice on Vietnam's COVID-19 prevention and control measures, as well as vaccination strategies.

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An under-construction fencing wall of an elementary school in Ha Giang Province, northern Vietnam suddenly collapsed on four local workers on Tuesday afternoon, leaving one dead and the three others injured.

The fencing wall at Nguyen Hue Elementary School, located in the provincial capital city of Ha Giang, caved in at around 5:30 pm, when these workers were removing the old mortar of the wall for repointing and repainting.

Teachers and students were at home then.

Local forces swiftly arrived at the scene of the fatal incident, discovering that the fallen wall measured over 30 meters and more than two meters high, the Vietnam News Agency reported.

Police officers and relevant units are pictured inspecting the scene of the fatal fencing wall collapse in Ha Giang Province, northern Vietnam, December 5, 2023. Photo: Vietnam News Agency

Among the four victims, Truong Van Binh, a 40-year-old native of the provinces Vi Xuyen District, was pronounced dead at the Ha Giang General Hospital due to severe injuries.

The three other injured victims are receiving emergency treatment at the hospital, including Then Van Diep, 32, Lu Dinh Tam, 17, and Truong Van Truc, 23, all residing in this northern mountainous province.

The workers started repairing the fencing wall on Tuesday morning, as part of a school renovation project whose investor is the citys project management authority.

Police are investigating the root cause of the deadly wall collapse.

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Hoa Sen University in Ho Chi Minh City has issued a regulation saying that students will be kicked out of the school if they are caught offering prostitution services four times.

First-time violators will receive a reprimand, while more severe disciplinary actions including stern warnings and temporary suspension from the university will be applicable to second-time and third-time offenders, respectively.

If the violations are deemed serious, those responsible will be transferred to the relevant authorities for appropriate handling in accordance with the law.

The regulation applies to students in all training programs across all levels of the university.

As per the university's regulations, there are 28 violations that may result in students being subject to disciplinary measures.

The school will expel students who are caught concealing or acting as brokers of prostitution rings and hand them over to police.

Students will also face expulsion if they are found to have arranged for someone to study and take exams on behalf of another student, engage in the trade, transportation, or storage of drugs, or incite others to use drugs.

Expulsion may occur to those found storing and trading weapons, explosives, or prohibited goods for the first time.

Other violations also result in the expulsion of students from the university, regardless of how many times they are committed.

The university stipulates that students belonging to the 2023 cohort must participate in outdoor activities to accrue behavior points which serve as the foundation for applying for scholarships at Hoa Sen University and its affiliated partners.

This regulation is not applicable to students of previous courses.

The new policy has sparked concerns among the students of the 2023 course, who said that it was unreasonable as the university issued the regulation near the end of the first semester.

According to these students, their involvement in university activities is driven by the inherent benefits of the activities rather than the pursuit of behavior points.

They argue that if they are compelled to participate solely for behavior points and are unable to derive any meaningful learning experiences, the activities lose their significance.

Le Thai Huy, director of the Center of Student Experience and Employment at Hoa Sen University, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that the regulations were formulated in accordance with the relevant rules of the Ministry of Education and Training, taking into consideration references from regulations of other universities.

Hoa Sen University vehemently opposes any violations of the law and traditional customs and is committed to taking strict measures against offenders.

During the regulation adoption, the school will impose punishments flexibly on different cases, Huy said.

He added that the university will not hesitate to turn serious offenders over to police, regardless of the number of times they have committed the violations.

Regarding students behavior points, he said the university applies the points to encourage students to participate in outdoor activities. The school always accompanies students so that they can improve their ability and skills.

The regulation also helps acknowledge students contributions to the schools activities and is a criterion to honor them or grant scholarships.

It is in line with the regulations of the Ministry of Education and Training, Hoa Sen Universitys representative said.

Students have the freedom to choose activities that suit their preferences, Huy noted, emphasizing that the university communicated this plan to its students at the outset of the 2023 academic year in October.

In response to complaints from students who may not fully comprehend the regulations, the university has taken steps to explain the new rules to them, according to Huy.

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Uncollected garbage has heaped up at several trash pickup sites in multiple suburbs in Hanoi, turning the places into dumpsites.

The piles of garbage that have not been transported to waste treatment facilities pollute the residential areas and annoy locals there.

Located in Huu Bang Commune under Thach That District, a waste collection site has become a large household rubbish dump, according to a Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper reporters observation.

The Xuan Son solid waste treatment area in Ba Vi District halted its operation in early 2023, leading to delays in waste treatment.

Household garbage in the districts and towns in the south and west of Hanoi must be transported to the Nam Son Landfill in Soc Son District, north of the city, for treatment.

Phan Van Dung, a 70-year-old resident of Huu Bang Commune, told Tuoi Tre that though the unpleasant smell from the dump weakens in the cold season compared with the dry season, it is still too disgusting.

Countless flies have quickly grown at the dump, he said.

He expects waste to be treated frequently in order not to affect locals.

The garbage collection site covered some hundreds of square meters a few years ago, but it is much larger now, Dung added.

Uncollected trash piles up at a waste pickup site in Huu Bang Commune, Thach That District, Hanoi. Photo: Danh Khang / Tuoi Tre

Nguyen Manh Hong, chairman of the Thanh That District administration, explained to Tuoi Tre on Tuesday that as the Xuan Son landfill shut down, waste must be transported to Nam Son, which is three times farther.

The Nam Son landfill is handling garbage coming from many districts, leading to long waits in waste treatment in the commune.

We have reported the problem to the municipal administration, but other areas in the city are facing the same fate, Hong said.

Huu Bang Commune discharges over 10 metric tons of household waste daily.

The waste pickup site in the commune currently has thousands of metric tons of untreated garbage.

Another in Sai Son Commune, Quoc Oai District is facing a backlog of metric tons of trash.

A backlog of uncollected trash in a Hanoi suburb. Photo: Danh Khang / Tuoi Tre

A woman collects scrap at a trash pickup site in Hanoi. Photo: Danh Khang / Tuoi Tre

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment issued guidelines on the classification of waste in early November.

Waste should be categorized into three groups, namely food waste, waste that can be reused and recycled, and others.

As per the 2020 Law on Environmental Protection, localities must start classifying trash by December 31, 2024.

Residents who fail to classify waste before throwing it will be fined VND500,000-1 million (US$20.5-41).

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Cho Ray Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City has successfully prepared radiopharmaceuticals for use in PET/CT scans to diagnose prostate cancer and neuroendocrine tumors, which will help patients who previously had to travel abroad for these tests.

In its announcement of the achievement on Wednesday, the hospital affirmed that the Gallium-68 PSMA (Ga-68 PSMA) and Gallium-68 Dotatate (Ga-68 Dotatate), which were made for the first time in Vietnam last month, are effective for use in PET/CT scans to detect signs of the aforementioned cancer and tumors.

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a technique that measures physiological function by looking at blood flow, metabolism, neurotransmitters, and radiolabelled drugs, while computed tomography (CT) is a noninvasive medical examination or procedure that uses specialized X-ray equipment to produce cross-sectional images of the body, according to the U.S.s National Institutes of Health.

After a long time of studies, the nuclear medicine department of Cho Ray Hospital successfully prepared the two PET-CT drugs on November 7, 2023 and then put them into trial use, said Dr. Nguyen Xuan Canh, head of the department.

During nearly one month of trial, the hospital used Ga-68 PSMA for PET/CT scans in 12 cases of prostate cancer and Ga-68 Dotatate for the same tests in nine cases of neuroendocrine tumors.

A doctor works at the nuclear medicine department of Cho Ray Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Cho Ray Hospital

The scan results showed the effectiveness of both drugs, according to the department.

The two types of radioactive drugs have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and are being widely used across the world, Dr. Canh stated.

Currently, not all countries can produce Ga-68 PSMA and Ga-68 Dotatate, so patients who need PET/CT tests using the two drugs usually have to go abroad if the drugs are not available in their countries.

Now that the new radiopharmaceuticals are available in Vietnam, Vietnamese patients will no longer have to travel abroad for these crucial tests, said Dr. Canh.

He stressed that these drugs will not only facilitate the hospital enhancing the effectiveness of its examination and treatment of patients with prostate cancer and neuroendocrine tumors, but also help save medical costs for them.

The hospital has applied PET/CT scans to various diseases since 2009, with 12-15 cases per day, the doctor added.

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Jeremy Zwinger, president and CEO of The Rice Trader, the organizer of the World's Best Rice contest, announced on Tuesday morning via a press release to Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that the recipient of the World's Best Rice 2023 title is the ST25 rice from Vietnam, developed by Ho Quang Tri Private Enterprise.

ST25 was developed by a team led by Ho Quang Cua, former deputy director of the Mekong Delta province of Soc Trangs Agriculture and Rural Development Department.

Zwinger stressed that the contest featured around 30 samples from various countries, some of which submitted more than one sample.

The winning sample was chosen unanimously by all chefs in the contest, which was held in a blind test without any chef knowing which variety or company they were analyzing.

He added that no other rice samples from Vietnam made it to the top three finalists, which included one from Cambodia, one from India, and ST25 from Vietnam, and had an influence on the contest's outcome.

The Rice Trader had earlier announced that Vietnam was the winner of the contest, not a specific rice variety. However, all Vietnamese companies participating in the competition claimed the victory.

We hope that the situation will find peaceful calmness, and this would turn into a united win for the country of Vietnam, Zwinger wrote in the press release.

Subsequently, what he was seeing in the news were statements that all varieties had won the Worlds Best Rice, which he said "is a fallacy and goes against our very purpose in rewarding efforts towards success."

"If all varieties have won in Vietnam, then there would be no purpose in the quality of any rice of any kind in the world, he added.

The Rice Trader had originally planned to announce the rice variety that secured the highest title of the contest within the next six months but the announcement was expedited due to controversies in Vietnam.

He congratulated Vietnam on the great achievement, saying that the country has come a long way in its efforts to be a quality supplier, which can be seen in the major buying of quality rice from key global importers.

There are many parts that have moved this overall industry to a place where their logistics, milling equipment, testing, trade consistency, and quality control are at a level of great respect.

The contest organizer also called on participants to honor the unanimous decision of the esteemed chefs involved in the competition and requested the removal of any inaccurate claims on social media and mainstream platforms.

This is the second time the ST25 rice variety has been named the best in the world, following the first time in 2019.

The Worlds Best Rice competition is part of the World Rice Conference Summit, organized in the Philippines between November 28 and 30.

Three Vietnamese enterprises participated in the competition, showcasing six distinct rice varieties, including Ho Quang Tri private business' ST24 and ST25 rice, Loc Troi Group's LT28 rice and Nang Hoa 9, and Thai Binh Seeds' TBR39-1 rice and A Sao glutinous rice, Nguyen Nhu Cuong, head of the Department of Crop Production under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, told Tuoi Tre.

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Amounts paid by Seven, ABC and News Corp have been revealed during the Bruce Lehrmann v 10 / Lisa Wilkinson defamation trial this week.

ABC agreed to pay Bruce Lehrmann $150,000 towards his legal costs in an out-of-court settlement of his defamation claim, according to documents filed in the federal court.

According to the deed of settlement and release between Lehrmann and the ABC, the ABC agreed to remove a Facebook video of the National Press Club speech given by Brittany Higgins and Grace Tame on 9 February 2022.

The $150,000 included $7,000 to be paid to solicitors acting for ABC broadcaster Laura Tingle, who hosted the event and is the NPC president, to cover the costs incurred by Lehrmann relating to Tingles compliance with a subpoena to produce documents in the case.

The remaining $143,000 was paid to Lehrmanns solicitors trust account as a contribution towards his legal costs.

Meanwhile a News Corp settlement, also released by the Federal Court on Wednesday, agreed to pay Lehrmann $295,000 as a contribution towards his legal costs.

Without admission of liability, the parties have reached a commercial resolution of the claim, the deed says.

Lehrmann had claimed the News Corp articles, which did not name him, wrongly alleged he raped Higgins.

Seven agreed in a separate document to pay Lehrmanns rent for 12 months for a Spotlight interview from mid-2023 to mid-2024.

An invoice uploaded online on Tuesday shows fortnightly rent of $4,000 for a period in June. While the invoice appears to be for a single rental period of a fortnight, if Lehrmanns rent remained at $4,000 for the 12 months, he will receive a total benefit worth $104,000.

Lehrmann has denied allegations that he raped Brittany Higgins at Parliament House in Canberra. His criminal trial was abandoned due to juror misconduct. A second trial did not proceed.

Source: The Guardian, The Age
Werner Film Productions (The Newsreader, Secret City, Surviving Summer, Crazy Fun Park) has secured the rights to Infidelity & Other Affairs, in a deal negotiated by Thames & Hudson Australia, with plans to develop it for television.

The memoir by journalist Kate Legge, (pictured) who is separated from Greg Hywood, former Fairfax CEO and currently Chair of Free TV Australia, tracks four generations of infidelity in her family.

Described as a deeply personal and universal exploration of pain and betrayal, the book has received rave reviews from the likes of Annabel Crabb, Trent Dalton, and Geraldine Doogue.

Producer Joanna Werner said, We are thrilled to be working with Kate Legge on an adaptation of Infidelity and Other Affairs. Its a beautifully nuanced take on infidelity and relationships and we are excited to be translating it into an equally compelling premium drama.
Schools IBEC course recommended as model case for other institutes

By Jun Ji-hye

The International Graduate School (IGS) at Namseoul University has taken the lead in bringing innovative International Baccalaureate (IB) education programs into Korea by operating the International Baccalaureate Educator Certificate (IBEC) course.

Park Hee-suk, dean of Namseoul University IGS, said during a recent interview with The Korea Times that the school became the first among domestic universities to have been certified by the International Baccalaureate Organization to train IB educators for the IB DP (Diploma Program)  an assessed program for students aged 16 to 19  in March 2020.

Since then, the school, located in Cheonan, South Chungcheong Province, has obtained additional certifications to train IB educators for MYP (Middle Years Program) in December 2021 and PYP (Primary Years Program) in January this year, which were also firsts for Korea. MYP is for students aged 11 to 16, while PYP is for children aged 3 to 12.

The International Baccalaureate Organization is a nonprofit foundation headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, that was founded in 1968. The organization offers four challenging education programs for schools worldwide, aiming to enable students to direct their own learning pathways and develop skills and confidence.

IB programs have come to the fore in recent years as they have been recognized as the innovative alternative that could contribute to the countrys education reform, Park said.

At the beginning, skepticism existed, with critics denouncing the programs as expansive classes for aristocrats. But more interest arose for their innovative way of teaching that was compared to the countrys uniform education system.

Amid growing interest, education authorities have also begun to pay attention to the IB programs, as evidenced by an increasing number of candidates running for recent superintendent elections offering pledges of adopting the programs in local schools, according to Park.

The IBEC course at Namseoul University IGS is led by the International Baccalaureate Educators Network (IBEN) and Korean assistant lecturers, thus the course aims to provide educational excellence for students from all over the world.

The 30-week course is offered in two semesters mainly online, using a real-time non-face-to-face Zoom system and learning management system Moodle.

Anyone who has a teaching certificate can apply to study in the IBEC course, Park said. Since the IBEC course began operating in 2021, a total of 65 students, most of whom were grade school teachers and private institute instructors as well as international school teachers, have taken the course, seeking to play a key role in the education sector.

In January 2022, the IBEC course at Namseoul University IGS was recognized by the International Baccalaureate Organization for its excellent online curriculum and recommended as a model case for other schools in Canada and Australia preparing to operate the IBEC course.

In May this year, Namseoul University IGS signed an important memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Gyeonggi Province Office of Education, under which the education office entrusted the school to train 50 elementary and middle school teachers at its IBEC course.

The one-year course for these 50 teachers  30 for MYP and 20 for PYP  began on June 15, Park said.

We are proud of this MOU as it means our course was recognized by the education office.

Park said the school will expand cooperation with other education offices, noting that talks have been already underway with the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education and South Chungcheong Province Office of Education.

Other than the IBEC course, Namseoul University IGS offers five career-focused, full-time masters degree programs, including Global Techno Entrepreneurship, Global Addiction Rehabilitation Counseling and International Education.

The number of students studying at these departments has more than doubled from 34 in 2019 to 100 this year, Park said, attributing the achievement to the schools consistent efforts to publicize its programs around the world by, for example, actively participating in international education fairs.

Park noted the school plans to add two more departments  International Business and Orthopedic Manual Physiotherapy and Contrology  next year.

We will continue working to expand our IBEC course, Park said. We will also make efforts to diversify the nationalities of students coming to study at Namseoul University IGS.
Icelandair Group hf.

In November 2023, Icelandair transported 282 thousand passengers, a 13% increase since November last year. The largest increase was 37% on the N-Atlantic market via Iceland. Year to date, the Company has transported four million passengers, 17% more than last year.

In November, 36% of Icelandairs passengers were traveling to Iceland, 16% from Iceland, 40% were via passengers and 8% were traveling within Iceland. Load Factor was 75.4%, improving by 1.9 percentage points and on-time performance was 84.5%.

Bogi Nils Bogason, Icelandair CEO:

In November, we continued seeing an increase in the number of passengers and a stronger load factor compared to last year, on 12% capacity increase. This is despite some negative impact on the booking flow sparked by media reporting on the Reykjanes peninsula seismic activity. Going forward, there is some impact on bookings and revenues for the next few months but looking at the longer term the booking flow is moving towards its former strength.

In 2023, we have transported four million passengers. I am very proud of the Icelandair team and thankful to our loyal passengers for these results and already look forward to the year 2024 where we will continue to use the Companys strengths and flexibility to address challenges and seize opportunities in our markets.

Contact Information



Investors: Iris Hulda Thorisdottir, Director Investor Relations. E-mail: iris@icelandair.is

Media: Asdis Petursdottir, Director Communications. E-mail: asdis@icelandair.is







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Slovakian police check a vehicle at the Slovakia-Hungary border in Sahy

(Reuters) - Slovakia will keep temporary border controls with Hungary in place until Jan. 22, the government said on Wednesday, extending checks aimed at preventing a renewed spike in illegal immigration.

The central European country imposed the border controls on Oct. 5, following neighbours Poland, the Czech Republic and Austria, which had tightened their own frontiers with Slovakia.

After several extensions, the checks had been due to end on Dec. 23.

Slovakia has seen a several-fold increase in illegal migration in 2023 as migrants, mostly young men from the Middle East and Afghanistan, transit through - via Hungary - on their way to richer western countries such as Germany.

Border controls cut the number of illegal migrant detentions to 34 in November, from 6,809 in October, the Interior Ministry said in documents supporting the extension.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico returned to power for a fourth time last month after winning a September election in which his pledges to protect borders from illegal migration played a role in campaigning.

Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Austria and Germany - which have all deployed border measures in recent months - are part of the European Union's Schengen open-border zone.

(Reporting by Jason Hovet in Prague; Editing by Alex Richardson)
A massive power outage hit the southeastern industrial city of Ulsan on Wednesday, leaving around 155,000 households without electricity for some two hours.

The blackout occurred at around 3:37 p.m. in a southern residential district of Ulsan, about 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, due to a malfunctioning substation, according to the industry ministry and the state-run utility Korea Electric Power Corp. (KEPCO).

It was the country's largest power outage since 2017, when some 200,000 households in the greater Seoul area were hit by a blackout.

"The power outage was caused by a malfunctioning switch isolator at the substation," a KEPCO official said, noting it was trying to determine the cause of the accident.

KEPCO said it has fully resumed operation of the substation after restoring power to the affected households at around 5:25 p.m.

The power failure plunged the residential district into chaos, leaving people trapped in elevators and causing traffic lights to go dark.

Many households, supermarkets, shops and hospitals were hit hard by the blackout, but cases of severe damage from a nearby industrial complex have yet to reported, according to officials.

Industry Minister Bang Moon-kyu convened an emergency meeting of related officials, calling for a thorough probe into the cause and countermeasures.

KEPCO said it will make all-out efforts to secure a stable supply of electricity in the future by thoroughly managing its facilities. (Yonhap)
HA NOI  Vietnamese firms should use additional caution to avoid increasingly sophisticated scams in international trade, Deputy Director of the Viet Nam Trade Promotion Agency Hoan Minh Chien said.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade cited statistics that scams in the global market cost enterprises an estimated five per cent of revenue per year, with damages averaging US$1.7 million per case.

As most are small or medium size, Vietnamese enterprises face high risk of scams and disputes, while their experiences in avoiding and dealing with such cases are limited, he said. Many are not familiar with commercial dispute resolution forms such as arbitration and mediation.

Tran Thu Quynh, Trade Counsellor of Viet Nam in Canada, said that from the beginning of 2023, the Canadian market saw a rapid increase in the number of fraud cases, averaging 10 a month, mostly relating to requirements about non-existing certificates.

The global market is currently in difficulty, orders are dropping, forcing enterprises to increase search for orders. When getting an order, enterprises tended to be subjective and did not pay adequate attention to drafting contracts, Quynh said.

Fraudsters approached Vietnamese businesses by sending messages and emails for inquiries of large orders. When Vietnamese businesses asked for deposits, fraudsters require some certificates which do not exist and ask Vietnamese firms to pay a small sum for consultancy services to gain these certificates.

Vu Chien Thang, Trade Counsellor of Viet Nam in Spain, said that the trade office provided support to domestic exporters in handling seven cases of fraud during the past three years, including cases related to cashew nut, black pepper, and iron.

The psychology of wanting to sell immediately leads to unfavourable negotiations and terms in contract, he said.

Thang urged exporting firms to work with trade offices to verify their partners before signing contracts.

Careful negotiations for contract terms are important, especially deposit and payment methods, he said.

According to Duong Phuong Thao, Viet Nam's Trade Counsellor in Italy, frauds are diverse in forms and firms must be very cautious. Enterprises should consider using legal consulting services throughout the entire process rather than just approaching them when a dispute occurs.

Hoang Thi Lien, Chairwoman of Viet Nam Pepper Association, said that notices and warnings of trade counsellors should be updated regularly on a unified, specific channel.

A set of reference rules on deposit levels and payment methods should be developed for enterprises to refer to when negotiating contracts.

Besides, commercial banks should provide support to domestic firms to ensure safety in international trade transactions, she said.

Chien said the ministry would continue to provide market updates and early warnings to industry associations and enterprises about emerging forms of fraud in international trade.  VNS
COPENHAGEN  Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) announced the Growth Markets Fund II launch during the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 28) in Dubai on December 4.

With a focus on developing and building offshore and onshore wind, solar PV, energy storage and Power-to-X projects in selected high-growth markets across Asia, Latin America and EMEA, including Viet Nam, the Philippines, India, etc., the fund has a target size of US$3 billion. It is expected to deliver renewable energy infrastructure projects reflecting over $10 billion of capital investment. This will enable more than 10 GW of new renewable energy capacity.

It is set to be the worlds largest fund focused on greenfield renewable energy investments in high-growth markets.

Christina Grumstrup Srensen, Senior Partner and founder of CIP, said: To reach net zero, we need to bring affordable, reliable, and clean energy to all parts of the world. This fund will deploy significant private capital and ensure renewable projects in countries, where it will contribute to growth and job creation and deliver substantial impact in reducing carbon emissions."

Niels Holst, partner at CIP and co-head of GMF, added: These growth countries represent attractive markets for investors seeking exposure to some of the highest expected growth rates for renewables. They are estimated to account for 25 per cent of global renewable energy capacity by 2050, as economic and demographic growth drives rapidly increasing electricity demand.

Ole Kjems Srensen, Partner at CIP and co-head of GMF, said: The fund is off to a good start with a large and diversified portfolio of projects reflecting potential equity commitments of more than $5 billion  far exceeding the target fund size. We expect the fund to be a global driver in the green and just transition.

Based on GMF IIs already existing portfolio of renewable energy development projects, the fund has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 10 million tonnes annually while powering more than 10 million homes with clean energy and creating more than 100,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) years globally.

Viet Nam is one of the key focus markets for GMF II with a pipeline of renewable energy projects such as the La Gan offshore wind project, located off the coast of Binh Thuan province. The La Gan project has a projected capacity of 3.5GW when fully developed, with an estimated investment of $10.5 billion. When fully established, La Gan is expected to power more than 7 million Vietnamese households and require more than 45,000 jobs. This demonstrates CIPs commitment to supporting Vietnams transition to a sustainable and green economy.

Founded in 2012, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners P/S (CIP) today is the worlds largest dedicated fund manager within greenfield renewable energy investments and a global leader in offshore wind.

The funds managed by CIP focus on investments in offshore and onshore wind, solar PV, biomass and energy-from-waste, transmission and distribution, reserve capacity, storage, advanced bioenergy, and Power-to-X (batteries, ammonia, green hydrogen, etc).

CIP manages 12 funds, has raised approximately $28 billion for energy investments, and has established a market-leading renewables pipeline of approximately 120GW of energy projects across technologies and geographies. Almost half of this renewable energy portfolio (over 50GW) constitutes offshore wind.  VNS
HCM CITY  Regional insurtech Igloo has closed a US$36 million Pre-Series C funding round led by global investment firm Eurazeo through its insurtech fund backed by the insurer BNP Paribas Cardif.

Openspace and La Maison, who previously participated in Igloo's Series B and Series B+ fundraises, also joined in, reaffirming their confidence in the company's strong business fundamentals.

This latest round comes just 10 months after Igloos previous Series B+ fundraise led by BlueOrchard-managed InsuResilience Investment Fund II. In total, the company has raised $100 million. Notably, Igloos Pre-Series C round closed at an increased valuation of 50 per cent from its Series B+ round in 2022, as the company moves closer to profitability in 2024.

Igloo said it is on track to double its 2022 gross written premiums at a low burn rate; with its robust engineering core and data focus, the companys path to profitability in 2024 is set.

The insurance market in Southeast Asia is still very underpenetrated and we believe Igloo is in a strong position to help solve this by making insurance more easily accessible and understandable for consumers, said Albert Shyy, managing director, Eurazeo.

Igloos offerings include Ignite by Igloo, a digital platform that enhances the productivity of sales intermediaries in Viet Nam and Indonesia. Ignite by Igloo works with 22,000 sales intermediaries and agent partners across the region and aims to close 2023 with 50,000 agents as it expands into other markets.

Another innovation for Igloo is its Weather Index Insurance, a pioneering blockchain-based parametric insurance for farmers. The product has drawn interest from partners in Viet Nam and across Southeast Asia for its potential to greatly benefit the agricultural sector. It has already been adopted by thousands of farmers since launching last November and covers 20,000 hectares of coffee and padi farms.

With a low insurance penetration rate of 3.3 per cent, Viet Nam presents significant growth potential for the insurance industry and remains a key market for Igloo, said Tri Nguyen, Country Manager Vietnam, Igloo.

The additional funding will empower us to drive initiatives for further expansion in the Vietnamese market, including the introduction of new products and fostering collaborative relationships with partners across verticals, he added.  VNS
HA NOI  Senior journalist Tran Mai Huong, former general director of the Vietnam News Agency (VNA), has released a new book that takes readers on a nostalgic journey through his time as a war correspondent.

The memoir, entitled Hoi Ky Phong Vien Chien Truong - Tren Nhung Neo uong Chien Tranh Va Hoa Binh (War Correspondent's Memoirs - On the Paths of War and Peace), is published by Vietnam News Agency Publishing House in collaboration with Alpha Books.

Journalism is a truly dangerous profession, especially for war correspondents. They constantly find themselves in the midst of life-and-death situations, facing the arrows and bullets of uncertainty.

Throughout the 20th century, Viet Nam experienced four wars, and nearly 500 war journalists lost their lives, 260 of them being officially confirmed as journalists from VNA. Among those fortunate to survive and return to tell their life stories, is journalist Tran Mai Huong.

Throughout the 468-page book, readers are truly immersed in the experiences of a war correspondent - someone who stands between life and death, yet remains determined to write, capture photographs, and timely deliver information to the readers.

"Suddenly, the ground shook, and I witnessed a series of bombs scattered right in front of me, creating a vacuum that made it difficult to breathe, followed by waves reverberating through the air..." Huong wrote.

Amidst such sacrifices and hardships, the author vividly portrays the images of Vietnamese troops and people's fights and victories.

He was among the journalists present on the frontlines during the liberation of the central province of Quang Tri in the 1972 General Offensive and Uprising Campaign. He personally witnessed and recorded the moments of exchange between the two sides and the overwhelming joy when imprisoned Vietnamese soldiers were reunited with their loved ones in Thach Han, Quang Tri, after the signing of the Paris Peace Accords in early 1973 and during the Spring of 1975.

The author was also present when the central province of Thua Thien-Hue was liberated, promptly transmitting news and articles capturing the festive atmosphere of the city. He was also in a Nang immediately after the city was liberated, ensuring timely reporting despite the challenging journey on a motorcycle.

And the most memorable moment was when Huong was present at the Independence Palace to capture the historic moment when the Liberation Army tanks advanced into the grounds of the Independence Palace on the afternoon of April 30, 1975.

This photograph was later widely renowned and became a symbol of the Great Spring Victory in 1975, which the author considers "an unforgettable memory in his journalistic career." He vividly portrays the joyful atmosphere as Sai Gon (HCM City) was completely liberated, capturing the diverse emotions through his writing.

Not only providing reports on the Vietnamese people's resistance war against the US, Huong also covered the border war in the Southwest, safeguarding the homeland and assisting the Cambodian people in escaping genocide and reviving their nation.

He was a frontline correspondent present in Phnom Penh when the city was liberated, providing timely news, articles and photographs about its liberation, and many other images of Cambodia.

When the Vietnamese military completed their mission in Cambodia, he personally witnessed the warm sentiments of the Cambodian people towards the Vietnamese soldiers.

Later on, the author was also present in the northern provinces of Ha Giang and Cao Bang during the fight against the invading enemy forces.

He also had the opportunity to visit the US, seeking out "milestones related to his memories," such as the Vietnam War memorials in New York and Washington. There he took vivid notes about the Vietnamese expats in the US who always remember and wish their homeland prosperity and development.

In the introduction of the memoir, journalist Le Quoc Minh, Central Party Committee Member, Editor-in-Chief of Nhan Dan (The People) newspaper, and Chairman of the Vietnam Journalists Association, wrote: This memoir is valuable for readers across the country and for us journalists in particular. I hope that every journalist will read this book at least once.

According to Deputy General Director of Vietnam News Agency, Nguyen Thi Su, the memoir is introduced in a very meaningful context, coinciding with the commemoration of Vietnam People's Army Day on December 22.

The book takes readers back to the wartime years, with intense events and characters. It helps younger generations like us to better understand a time of youthful enthusiasm, dedication, and the author's and his colleagues' commitment at VNA during that period - those who have fulfilled the glorious mission of being 'journalists, soldiers,' contributing to the tradition of VNA and making significant contributions to the revolutionary press of Viet Nam, she noted.

Nguyen uc Loi, standing deputy chairman of the Vietnam Journalists Association, said: "In their career, not every journalist has the opportunity to experience the most crucial moments of history and the biggest turning point in the resistance war against the US.

This book is truly a valuable resource for the general public and especially for journalists, he added.  VNS
Vietnamese Ambassador to Thailand Phan Chi Thanh talks to Vietnam News Agency reporter in Bangkok about the bilateral relationship between the two countries ahead of the official visit by the National Assembly Chairman Vuong inh Hue to Thailand from December 7-10.

What is the significance of the official visit by National Assembly Chairman Vuong inh Hue for the relations between Viet Nam and Thailand?

Accepting the invitation from President of the Thai National Assembly Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, National Assembly Chairman Vuong inh Hue and the high-level delegation of the Vietnamese National Assembly will make an official visit to Thailand from December 7-10. The visit takes place in the context of Thailand successfully organising parliamentary elections in May and establishing a new government. Chairman Hue is the first head of a foreign legislative body to visit Thailand during their new parliamentary term.

2023 is also the year to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the strategic partnership between Viet Nam and Thailand. During the visit, NA Chairman Hue will hold discussions and exchanges with the highest-level leaders of Thailand, meet with deputies, politicians, scholars, and business representatives, and visit Udon Thani Province, home to the largest Vietnamese expatriate community. This visit holds great significance and can be considered a culminating event for the commemorative year of the Viet Nam-Thailand strategic partnership in 2023.

In recent years, relations between Viet Nam and Thailand have been strengthened and developed rapidly, especially in parliamentary and inter-parliamentary cooperation.

The official visit reaffirms the high-level leadership support of both countries for the action plan implementing the enhanced strategic partnership in the 2022-2027 period between Viet Nam and Thailand. Within this framework are activities such as high-level delegation exchanges between the two National Assemblies and strengthened collaboration in multilateral and regional forums like APPF, IPU, and AIPA.

Can you tell us the viewpoint and assessment of the partner country regarding the current relationship?

The Thai National Assembly has prepared a very thoughtful and respectful visit for the Vietnamese NA delegation with a dense schedule of activities, meetings, and discussions between our National Assembly Chairman and the highest-ranking leaders of Thailand, showing that the partner deeply appreciates the friendly relations and excellent cooperation between the two countries.

Viet Nam and Thailand are two countries with essential roles in ASEAN. In a highly complex global situation, Viet Nam and Thailand must strengthen unity and cooperation at all levels.

Thailand's political, academic, and research community awaits Chairman Hue's speech at Chulalongkorn University, the country's foremost policy research institution. They are keen to understand the future direction of the relationship between Viet Nam and Thailand and how the two countries will contribute to addressing global and regional issues.

Thai businesses continue to view Viet Nam as a critical market and an attractive investment destination in Thailand. Thai corporations are actively promoting substantial investments in the Vietnamese market. Our National Assembly plays a crucial role in enacting legislation and policies to boost foreign cooperation in investment and trade. So, Thai enterprises eagerly anticipate the meeting between the NA Chairman Hue and businesses at the policy and legal forum to enhance economic, commerce, and investment cooperation between Viet Nam and Thailand.

The year 2023 also marks the 10th anniversary of Thailand and Viet Nam upgrading their relationship to a "Strategic Partnership." Can you please highlight some critical points of this relationship milestone and share your assessment of the prospects for future cooperation between the two countries?

2023 is a significant milestone for the Viet Nam-Thailand relationship as the two countries celebrate ten years of their strategic partnership. Both sides have organised meaningful activities for this special occasion.

Leaders of both countries, especially the deputy prime ministers and the chairpersons of the National Assemblies, have met on the sidelines of various multilateral conferences to promote bilateral relations as a good tradition. The Chairman of the Vietnamese National Assembly and his Thai counterpart met on the sidelines of the AIPA 43 and 44 conferences in Cambodia in November 2022 and Indonesia in August 2023, respectively. The two prime ministers also met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in September 2023.

The official visit of the Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Parnpree Bahiddha-Ankara, to Viet Nam in October was the first visit by the head of Thai diplomacy during the new government's term. Both sides assessed the results of 10 years of implementing the strategic partnership, agreeing that the relationship has developed exceptionally well, and it is time for the two countries to upgrade to a comprehensive strategic partnership that is commensurate with their ties.

The visit by Chairman Hue is a new and significant milestone in parliamentary cooperation between the two countries. Both sides will sign a cooperation agreement between the National Assemblies and the two Parliamentary Offices, elevating parliamentary collaboration to a higher and more profound level.

The preparation for elevating the bilateral relationship to a new level is poised to unlock numerous potentials and opportunities for both sides to enhance cooperation in all aspects, especially in the implementation of economic, trade, and tourism activities, with a particular focus on improving connectivity in road, rail, air and maritime transportation.

The expected documents to be signed will outline various measures to deepen further and substantiate parliamentary relations, as well as discussions with Thai leaders on the framework of cooperation in other fields. These include high-level parliamentary exchanges, committee interactions, enhanced interactions between lawmakers, and collaboration between the two Parliamentary Offices. There will also be an emphasis on strengthening oversight of the implementation of signed agreements, collaboration in citizen protection efforts, and sharing experiences in legal development and mutual concerns.  VNS
VIENTIANE  Vietnamese National Assembly Chairman Vuong inh Hue attended and delivered a speech at the plenary session of the first Cambodia  Laos  Viet Nam (CLV) Parliamentary Summit, which opened in Vientiane on Tuesday.

Describing the solidarity, friendship and political trust among the three countries as an invaluable asset that holds long-term strategic meaning in the national construction, protection and development of the countries, Hue stressed that Viet Nam has treasured and taken developing ties with the neighbouring countries as a strategic mission and a top priority in its foreign policy.

The Vietnamese top legislator affirmed that the establishment of the summit is a milestone in the cooperation history of the three parliaments, which helps elevate the trilateral collaboration to the highest level, and is a bold step to concretise the outcomes of the high-level meeting among Party leaders of Cambodia, Laos, and Viet Nam in September. 2021.

Viet Nam's parliament leader put forth several measures to bolster cooperation among the three legislative bodies.

Regarding politics-foreign affairs, he suggested they join hands to preserve, nurture, and enhance the strategic values of the Cambodia  Laos  Viet Nam traditional friendship and special solidarity.

They should complete institutions and issue legal policies to support the governments in developing the socio-economy and ensuring security-defence, while working closely and supporting each other at regional and international forums, especially the parliamentary cooperation mechanisms such as IPU, APPF and AIPA, contributing to building the ASEAN Community and promoting Mekong sub-regional collaboration.

In terms of trade, economy and investment, he suggested they continue supervising the implementation of the signed cooperation documents, as well as negotiating the signing of new ones to fully form legal corridors that facilitate collaboration to create breakthroughs in economic cooperation and promote connectivity among the three economies.

Touching on culture-society, Hue highlighted the three parliaments should join hands to examine the conditions to develop tourism, promote the three countries  one destination model, and strengthen cooperation across healthcare, education-training and cultural exchange.

He said the moves will help educate the young generations on the Cambodia  Laos  Viet Nam friendship, stressing the parliaments should ask the governments to create favourable conditions for the Vietnamese, Cambodian, and Lao peoples to study and work in each nation.

Regarding environment and climate change issues, he highlighted that they should step up coordination and discussions on the relevant laws, and cooperation with competent international partners to promote the effective and sustainable use of natural resources, particularly the Mekong river, for the common benefits of the three countries.

Additionally, they should encourage governments and relevant authorities to enhance the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, and climate change response measures.

On defence-security issues, Hue said that the three parliaments should continue support for each other to maintain stability and order in each country, and to prevent any forces from using one countrys territory against other countries.

He also suggested that they create favourable conditions for the completion of land border demarcation and marker planting between countries.

At the event, the three top legislators said that the establishment of the summit contributes to deepening the friendship, solidarity and comprehensive cooperation among Viet Nam, Laos, and Cambodia.

They affirmed their commitment to deepening the cooperation ties and parliamentary partnership to maintain close collaboration for the benefit of the three parliaments, thus nurturing friendship and solidarity and enhancing comprehensive cooperation across various fields.

They also laid stress on the supervisory role of the parliaments in responding to global challenges, handling shortcomings, and promoting the implementation of agreements and projects for the benefit of the CLV Development Triangle Area and the three countries in particular.

At the event, representatives from international, regional and national organisations spoke highly of the cooperation among the three legislative bodies, as well as that of localities in the CLV Development Triangle Area. They pledged support for the countries in their sustainable development journey, contributing to maintaining peace, stability and cooperation in the region.

Before attending the plenary session, NA Chairman Hue and his Lao and Cambodian counterparts Saysomphone Phomvihane and Khuon Sudary paid a courtesy visit to General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith.  VNS
A NANG  President Vo Van Thuong had a working session on Tuesday with the Military Region 5 Command, which comprises 11 central and Central Highlands localities, on the military-defence situation in the region.

The State leader hailed the efforts of armed forces in the region in accomplishing their tasks, giving accurate forecasts and advice to the Party, State, the Central Military Commission, and the Ministry of National Defence on military-defence issues, and settling all arising problems.

The forces have strictly maintained combat readiness, closely managing national airspace, sea and islands and border, enhancing the strength of the defence area, while showing strong performance in external military relations, said the State leader.

He lauded the active engagement of officers and soldiers of Military Region 5 in natural disaster prevention and response as well as search and rescue activities.

Holding that the world and regional situation is likely to continue to develop complicatedly and unpredictably, President Thuong asked Military Region 5 to focus on implementing the resolution of the Party Central Committees eighth session on national defence strategy in the new situation as well as relevant resolutions and directives on defence-security tasks in association with socio-economic development in strategic areas.

It is necessary to give accurate analysis, evaluation and forecast on the defence-security developments in the region to take proper response, firmly protecting the national border, sovereignty and territorial integrity, he requested.

Along with building strong armed forces with absolute loyalty to the Party and people, Military Region 5 should enhance the efficiency of political and ideological education, fighting wrongful and reactionary viewpoints of hostile forces, protecting the ideological foundation of the Party, actively preventing and combating signs of self-evolution, self-transformation and depoliticalisation of the military, and fostering internal solidarity as well as that between armed forces and the people, Thuong underscored.

The State leader asked Military Region 5 to continue strictly managing the airspace, sea, border, mainland, cyberspace as well as strategic areas, while coordinating with the local administrations and other forces to reinforce the people-based defence, strengthening international cooperation to build a borderline of peace, friendship, stability and development, and providing support to Laos and Cambodia.

Earlier the same day, President Thuong inspected the training and combat readiness at Tank Brigade 574 under Military Region 5.  VNS
President Yoon Suk Yeol's approval rating dropped 4 percentage points from a month earlier to 33 percent, according to a survey conducted jointly by Yonhap News Agency and Yonhap News TV on Wednesday.

The survey also showed that the ruling People Power Party (PPP) and the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) would secure 31 percent and 36 percent of the vote, respectively, if the general elections were to take place tomorrow.

Yonhap News Agency and Yonhap News TV jointly commissioned the survey to gauge public sentiment. The survey was conducted by Metrix on 1,000 adults aged 18 and older on Saturday and Sunday.

According to the poll, the positive assessment of Yoon was 33 percent, falling from the 37 percent in the previous survey conducted a month earlier, while the negative assessment rose to 60 percent, compared with 57 percent last month.

The survey once again identified defense and diplomacy as the most frequently cited factors in the positive assessment of Yoon's performance. Economy and livelihood matters were the most cited factors behind the negative assessment, the poll showed.

In terms of the approval rating of the two major rival parties, the DPK outran the PPP.

The DPK's approval rating was 35 percent, while that of the PPP was 34 percent, a turnaround from the previous survey where the PPP was ahead of the DPK by 4 percentage points.

Additionally, 66 percent of respondents said they have a negative view of the Korea Medical Association's plan to vote whether to launch a strike against the government's plan to increase medical school enrollment quotas.

The results had a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points at a 95 percent confidence level. (Yonhap)
HA NOI  Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenkos official visit from December 6 to 9 holds special importance as it will affirm Viet Nam's key role as one of the important partners of the Eastern European country in Southeast Asia, said Belarusian Ambassador to Viet Nam Uladzimir Baravikou.

In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency, Baravikou said the visit, to bemade at the invitation of PM Pham Minh Chinh, will be the first to Viet Nam by a Belarusian leader after the COVID-19 pandemic. The resumption of high-level political ties is of great significance.

He said Viet Nam is highly crucial in his countrys foreign policy as it is a dynamic economy based on modern technology, has an increasing population, and boasts a potential and promising market along with an effective foreign investment attraction system.

With its impressive successes in socio-economic development and the growing stature in the international arena, Viet Nam can help Belarus expand cooperation to across Southeast Asia, he continued.

Belarus is highly interested in expanding and enhancing cooperation with members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), particularly in trade and economy, the ambassador noted, describing this region as a promising destination for farm produce, machinery, equipment and other goods from his country.

He believes that Viet Nam can substantially contribute to the expansion of Belaruss partnerships with ASEAN members.

PM Golovchenkos visit will send a clear signal to all the partners interested in establishing mutually beneficial cooperative ties. It will affirm the two countries common interests in further strengthening and developing comprehensive cooperation for the sake of both countries.

Baravikou expressed his belief that thanks to shared efforts, the two countries will weather every difficulty and obstacle on the path to a new level of their relations.

Looking back on bilateral ties during the past more than 30 years, he said Belarus and Viet Nam have taken a long path of developing win-win relations which have reached a high level of political communication.

Many joint projects have been carried out in various spheres, from defence, security, trade, investment to science, culture, education, sports, and tourism. Connections between the two countries regions have been set up. Parliamentary links have also been reinforced while parliamentary friendship groups taken shape. Besides, hundreds of Vietnamese students are enrolling on courses at Belarusian universities.

Since the pandemic ended, inter-sectoral collaboration has been growing considerably. Aside from about 20 mutual visits between law enforcement bodies of both countries in 2022 and 2023, the Belarusian culture and education days were also held in Viet Nam and new cooperation deals signed this year.

There are now more than 90 agreements between the two countries, providing legal frameworks for bilateral relations. Some documents are being prepared and could be inked during this times visit to Viet Nam by PM Golovchenko, according to the diplomat.

He highlighted Belarusian and Vietnamese partners shared attention at different levels to maintaining and reinforcing mutually beneficial ties.

It is important that both sides understand each others demand and interests to create new opportunities for advancing their relations, he added. VNS

Room for growth in exports The Viet Nam-Belarus relationship is developing strongly, and the two countries boast potential to expand their cooperation in many fields, said Chairman of the Council of Experts of the Eurasian Research Fund Grigory Trofimchuk told Vietnam News Agency ahead of Belarusian PM's trip.Trofimchuk said Viet Nam has maintained its relations with almost countries of the former Soviet Union, including Belarus, noting the bilateral political and economic ties have been developing at different levels.The two countries have held many discussions recently on ways to strengthen the collaboration, the expert added.He said Belarus is working hard to access the Southeast Asian market, and Viet Nam would serve as a bridge between the country and the region.Trofimchuk suggested the two countries cooperate in such areas as chemistry, agriculture, auto industry, and health care, adding many big Belarusian firms have maintained their good relations with Viet Nam.
HA NOI  Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko and his entourage arrived in Ha Noi on Wednesday night, starting his four-day official trip to Viet Nam.

They were welcomed at the Noi Bai International Airport in Ha Noi by Minister of Science and Technology Huyfnh Thanh at, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Thi Thu Hang, Vietnamese Ambassador to Belarus Nguyen Van Ngu, and Belarusian Ambassador to Viet Nam Uladzimir Baravikou.

Roman Golovchenkos official visit is expected to create new impetus to consolidate and enhance the relations between Viet Nam and Belarus. During his stay, leaders of both sides will review the bilateral cooperation, and discuss to find specific steps to bolster the ties in the time ahead.

The Viet Nam-Belarus relations have deep roots dating back to the Soviet era when President Ho Chi Minh visited Belarus in 1957 and 1961, marking significant milestones in the development of the two countries' relations.

More than three decades since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1992, Viet Nam and Belarus have been maintaining and developing their traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation with an increasingly high level of trust.

Viet Nam and Belarus are collaborating in numerous areas, ranging from national defence to economy, trade, culture, education, sci-tech, people-to-people and locality-to-locality exchanges. The two countries have established a solid legal framework to promote cooperation in various fields, with about 50 cooperation agreements, including international treaties and agreements between ministries and agencies. Around 10 Vietnamese provinces have set up friendly and cooperative relations with six out of seven provincial-level localities of Belarus.  VNS
VIENTIANE  The first Cambodia-Laos-Viet Nam (CLV) Parliamentary Summit wrapped up in Vientiane, Laos, on Wednesday with the issuance of a joint statement on promoting the parliamentary role in bolstering the comprehensive cooperation among the three countries.

Top legislators of the three countries signed the joint statement, re-affirming their commitment to expanding and deepening the parliamentary cooperation and partnership with a view to maintaining and protecting the close collaboration for common benefits among the three parliaments, thus contributing to promoting collaboration across politics, security, defence, culture and economy for the socio-economic development in the CLV countries.

They pledged to carry out the supervisory role of the parliament in handling shortcomings for the benefits of people in the CLV Development Triangle Area, and the three countries as a whole.

The joint statement also demonstrated the agreement among the three parliaments on cooperation priorities in three pillars of politics-foreign affairs, defence-security, and economy-culture-society.

In his speech, Vietnamese National Assembly Chairman Vuong inh Hue spoke highly of the joint statement, which mentions the issues of the three countries interests, while affirming the resolve of parliamentary organisations in accompanying the governments to boost cooperation in all sectors, as well as keep a close watch on the implementation of the signed agreements for the benefits of the three peoples.

Laying stress on the significance of the promotion and consolidation of the cooperative ties and solidarity among Cambodia, Laos and Viet Nam amidst the globes complicated development, diverse forms of forces gatherings, and fierce competition, Hue suggested the three parliaments work closely, and support each other to promote the supervision of the implementation of the signed documents as well as orientations to develop the ties among the three countries.

Hue affirmed that the Vietnamese National Assembly will coordinate with the Cambodian and Lao sides to effectively enhance the role of the parliament in supervision work, and carry out the joint statement, and promote the settlement of the shortcomings so as to complete the set targets.

As Viet Nam will host the second summit in 2025, Hue invited his Cambodian and Laos counterparts to engage in activities held within the framework of the summit, making contributions to enhancing the friendship and solidarity among the three countries.  VNS
HA NOI  Health experts have proposed adjusting regulations regarding the age limit for organ donation from brain-dead people to help save more lives.

This recommendation was heard at a scientific workshop contributing ideas to the draft law outline amending and supplementing several articles of the Law on donation, removal and transplantation of human tissues and organs and the donation and recovery of cadavers, organised by the Ministry of Health (MoH) on Monday in Ha Noi.

According to the representative of the National Coordination Centre for Organ Transplants under the Ministry of Health, Viet Nam conducted its first organ transplant in 1992.

The first organ transplant from a brain-dead donor took place at Cho Ray Hospital in 2010.

As of early October this year, after 31 years of organ transplants and 13 years of retrieving organs from brain-dead donors, the country has performed nearly 8,000 organ transplants.

The study shows that in most countries with the highest rate of brain-dead organ donors per million people in the world, 50 per cent of the cases come from both young people (under 18 years old) and elderly individuals (60 years old and above).

In these countries, there is no age limit for organ donation after death.

Some countries like South Korea set a lower age limit, allowing contributions from individuals as young as 16 years old, instead of the current age of 18 in Viet Nam.

According to o Trung Hung, head of the Legal Department under the Ministry of Health, the current law has some shortcomings that need to be amended.

The first solution is to establish a database, creating a connection between those waiting for organ donations and potential organ donors.

"At present, our system only has information about those waiting for organ donations but lacks information about potential donors. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the comprehensive database across all hospitals," Hung said.

He also proposed additional policies for the families of organ donors, such as enjoying free health insurance to encourage and support the families of organ donors.

During the workshop, Dr. Nguyen Hoang Phuc, deputy director of the National Coordination Centre for Organ Transplantation, suggested that Viet Nam should also establish a National Organ Donation Day, similar to many other countries around the world, such as August 3 in India, September 9 in South Korea and June 11 in China.

He proposed July 1 as the National Organ Donation Day for Viet Nam, aligning with the effective date of the organ donation law on July 1, 2007.  VNS
A NANG  Xaisomphou Khaikeo, a Lao student of Duy Tan University, is helping her Vietnamese host mother Tran Thi Lan Thanh to make banh xeo (sizzling pancake) in a house on Le Trong Tan Street, a Nang Citys Thanh Khe District.

Khaikeo and two other Lao students studying at universities in a Nang have stayed at Thanhs house for a week under a homestay programme  an annual programme co-organised by the Viet Nam  Laos Friendship Association and the Consulate General of the Lao People's Democratic Republic in the city.

Under the programme, Lao students will stay with Vietnamese families for two weeks to learn about Vietnamese customs, dishes and habits in order to nurture and develop close relations between the people of Viet Nam and Laos.

Khaikeo said she knew how to cook many Vietnamese dishes after living with her host mother and father in several days.

Coming to Viet Nam to study and spending time with Vietnamese families is really meaningful for me, she said.

Through the programme, Lao students felt the warm affection of Vietnamese people and gained a deeper understanding of Vietnamese customs and traditions, she added.

During the days spent with her host parents, she was taken to visit neighbours and given a Vietnamese ao dai (traditional long dress) as a gift, as reported by the Government News.

Thanh, the host mother, said that her family had no daughters, so she was very happy to participate in the programme to adopt Lao female students to live with her family for two weeks.

"I consider the girls as members of my family. Every day we prepare meals, eat and talk together, she said.

Thanh said her father was a soldier, who fought in Laos in the past. Her father was wholeheartedly cared for by a Lao host mother when he was sick and had malaria.

That's why my feelings for the Lao people are very strong, she said.

This was the second time she has adopted Lao students from the programme. Last year, when she heard about the programme, she immediately signed up.

I feel like this is life giving me a chance to repay my debt of gratitude to Laos, she said.

Second family

The programme has been operated since 2011 for Lao students studying at universities in the city. About 100 Lao students participate in the programme every year in the city.

Through the programme, many relationships between Vietnamese and Lao parents and children, brother and sister have been formed, nurturing and developing close relations between the people of the two countries.

Depending on the host parents' conditions, each Lao student will be assigned a separate room for personal activities and use common space with the family.

Living with the host family, the students can learn about the culture, customs, traditions and life of Vietnamese people, and at the same time share Lao culture and customs with Vietnamese families. At the end of the programme, the students will return to the university dormitory.

Under this years programme, up to 148 Lao students participated and stayed with Vietnamese families in the city between November 26 to December 10.

Ho Ky Minh, standing Deputy Chairman of the city's People's Committee, said that the programme was a practical and important activity, helping Lao students to hone their Vietnamese communication skills as well as integrate into Vietnamese life, thereby strengthening the friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Viet Nam and Laos.

This would be an extremely valuable and meaningful time for the students, Minh said.

The students will have a second family during their time studying in the city and even after returning to their country, the feeling of that special family will forever follow them throughout their lives, he said.

As a bridge to promote development cooperation, the citys Union of Friendship Organisations and the Viet Nam - Laos Friendship Association have mobilised tens of billions of ong in scholarships for Lao students at local universities; and maintained cooperation and understanding with seven Lao localities of Vientiane, Xayaburi, Savannakhet, Champassak, Sekong, Salavan and Attapeu.

During the period of 2023-27, the city will continue to maintain the scholarship programme for Lao officials and students, and deploy a Vietnamese language teaching cooperation programme, also providing equipment support for Vietnamese language centres in five provinces of Laos.  VNS
HA NOI  The north-south high-speed railway project, the largest of its kind in Viet Nam in both funding and technological complexity, has attracted considerable attention and resulted in diverse perspectives from various management agencies.

Most management agencies have emphasised the necessity for thorough consideration and assessment of the impact associated with each investment option for the project.

The Party Central Committee's Conclusion No 49-KL/TW issued on February 28, 2023, regarding the direction of development of Viet Nam's railway transport by 2030, with a vision to 2045, aims to build the national railway infrastructure, and urban railways.

Specifically, the north-south high-speed railway is identified as the "backbone" axis that will connect urban railways, major economic centres, domestic transportation hubs, and international borders.

Recently, the Ministry of Transport sought opinions from experts, scientists, and relevant ministries on the draft plan with three investment scenarios for the north-south high-speed railway project.

Scenario 1 involves building a new double-track railway with a gauge of 1,435mm, a speed of 350kph, exclusively for passenger trains, and upgrading the existing North-South railway line for freight transport. The total investment for the project is US$67.32 billion.

Scenario 2 proposes constructing a new double-track railway with a gauge of 1,435mm, a speed of 250kph, combining both freight and passenger trains. The total investment for the project is $72.02 billion.

Scenario 3 suggests building a new double-track railway with a gauge of 1,435mm, a speed of 350kph, focusing on passenger trains and having provision for freight transport when needed. The existing railway line would be upgraded to specialise in freight and short-distance passenger transport. The total investment for the project is $68.98 billion. The amount will be around $72 billion, including upgrading the existing North-South railway line to the freight train.

The Ministry of Transport has prioritised proposing Scenario 3.

After the information surfaced, most ministries and organisations agreed that railways are lagging behind due to outdated technical infrastructure and declining market share. Therefore, the Party and the State's decision to invest in modern railway lines is appropriate and essential.

However, the choice of scenarios to ensure investment efficiency and suitability for the country's socio-economic situation must be considered carefully.

The Ministry of Planning and Investment stated that Scenario 3 is irrational as it has a design speed of 350kph but a lower total investment than Scenario 2 with a design speed of 250kph.

It also pointed out the absence of content related to freight transportation and internal rate of return calculation in the project.

While agreeing with Scenario 3, the Ministry of Construction noted that the north-south high-speed railway project passes 20 cities and provinces. Currently, these localities are in the process of formulating and approving regional and provincial planning.

The increasing urbanisation process may require changes in the design direction of the high-speed railway. This could lead to adjustments in the project's scope and changes in the total investment.

The Ministry of Construction suggested close coordination between the Ministry of Transport and the 20 localities to ensure the design direction of the project.

The Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations stated that it has organised a workshop to gather opinions on the draft plan for the project. After analysis and assessment, some experts and scientists concluded that Scenario 3 is not feasible due to technical factors.

The draft plan is still in the process of collecting opinions.

Many experts emphasised that the technical feasibility and the ability to anticipate shortcomings or unforeseen factors must be considered to avoid repeating the issues of capital escalation, cost overrun, and project delays.

In Viet Nam, many investment projects have experienced prolonged durations and increased capital requirements, primarily due to inadequate research. The Cat Linh  Ha ong urban railway project was initially approved with a total investment of $552.86 million, and then raised to $868 million. One of the main reasons for the capital escalation was the project's scheduled operation in 2015, which had to be adjusted multiple times, eventually put into operation in 2021.

Similarly, the Nhon  Ha Noi Station urban railway project was originally planned for commercial operation by the end of 2018 but has not yet finalised its operation date. This project has also proposed a capital adjustment to nearly VN33 trillion, an increase of over VN14.5 trillion compared to the initially approved total.

The Yen Vien  Ngoc Hoi urban railway project should have been implemented since 2012 but still has many items only existing on paper.

During the meeting on the high-speed railway investment project on December 1, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha requested a thorough analysis and evaluation of the overall impact and effectiveness of the high-speed railway on the economy for each scenario regarding speed, combining passenger and freight transportation, upgrading, and utilising existing railway lines.

He emphasised the need to optimise the operational capacity of different transportation methods and ecosystems.

Ha said that investing in high-speed railways is a long-term investment for the future, which should set the overall goal of forming an industry with the capability to master technology, ensuring the safe, efficient, and sustainable operation of high-speed railway lines within the transportation ecosystem. VNS
With a focus on developing both offshore and onshore wind, solar, energy storage, and power-to-X projects in selected high-growth markets across Asia, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, the fund has a target size of $3 billion and is expected to deliver renewable energy infrastructure projects reflecting over $10 billion of capital investment.

This will enable more than 10GW of new renewable energy capacity. It is set to be the worlds largest fund focused on greenfield renewable energy investments in high-growth markets.

Christina Grumstrup Srensen, senior partner and founder of CIP said, "To reach net-zero, we need to bring affordable, reliable, and clean energy to all parts of the world. This fund will be deploying significant private capital to ensure renewable projects in many countries, where it will contribute to growth and job creation while delivering a substantial impact in terms of reducing carbon emissions."

Niels Holst, partner at CIP and co-head of the GMF added, "These countries represent attractive markets for investors seeking exposure to some of the highest expected growth rates for renewables. They are estimated to account for 25 per cent of global renewable energy capacity by 2050, as economic and demographic growth drives rapidly increasing electricity demands."

Ole Kjems Srensen, partner at CIP and co-head of the GMF stated, "The fund is off to a good start with a large and diversified portfolio of projects reflecting potential equity commitments of more than $5 billion  far exceeding the target. We expect the fund to be a global driver in the green and just transition."

Based on GMF IIs existing portfolio of renewable energy development projects, the fund has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 10 million tonnes annually, while powering more than 10 million homes with clean energy and creating more than 100,000 full-time equivalent years of work globally.

Vietnam is one of the key focus markets for GMF II with a pipeline of renewable energy projects such as the La Gan offshore wind project, which will be located off the coast of Binh Thuan province. The La Gan project has a projected capacity of 3.5GW when fully developed, with a total estimated investment of $10.5 billion.

When fully established, La Gan is expected to power more than 7 million Vietnamese households and generate over 45,000 jobs.

CIP manages 12 funds, and has to date raised approximately $28 billion for energy investments. It has established a renewables pipeline of approximately 120GW of energy projects across technologies and geographies. Almost half of this renewable energy portfolio (over 50GW) is made up of offshore wind.

Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan visits Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners headquarters On November 21, Vice State President Vo Thi Anh Xuan embarked on a diplomatic visit to Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) headquarters in Copenhagen, Denmark.

La Gan Wind Power Development Corporation signs four MoUs La Gan Wind Power Development Corporation, the developer of the 3.5GW La Gan offshore wind farm project owned by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, Asiapetro, and Novasia, on February 24 signed four MoUs on foundation supply and harbour services.
The prestigious accolade was announced on December 4 by Vietnam's Ambassador to the United Kingdom Nguyen Hoang Long, adding to the festive cheer of the 2023 Vietnam  UK Friendship Year.

Vietnamese Ambassador to the UK Nguyen Hoang Long (left) and Nitin Kapoor, chairman and general director, AstraZeneca Vietnam

The announcement was made in a warm and celebratory setting and was attended by prominent figures and numerous members of the Vietnamese community in the UK.

Long praised Kapoor for his unwavering dedication and significant expertise to the healthcare sector in Vietnam since he assumed his position in 2018. The ambassador highlighted the chairmans firm commitment to healthcare innovation, the strengthening of health system resilience, sustainability, and his proactive stance on climate change.

In response to this honour, Kapoor said, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Vietnamese government, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and all our esteemed partners who have stood by us on this remarkable journey. This recognition is a testament to the incredible dedication and unwavering commitment of my colleagues, both in the local community and internationally."

The distinction further underscores Kapoor's dedication to enhancing health and sustainability in Vietnam, and accompanies his notable previous accolades that celebrated his positive influence on youth health and excellent leadership.

AstraZeneca's enduring partnership with Vietnam's health authorities has been marked by impactful health programmes aimed at disease awareness, prevention, and early detection. The company has pledged a substantial investment that aligns with Vietnam's aspirations for sustainable development, including a $50 million commitment to forest and landscape restoration, supporting the nation's ambitious net-zero emissions by 2050 target.

The company has also been instrumental in technology transfer by boosting the local production of innovative pharmaceuticals in Vietnam.

Alongside the Vietnam Young Physicians Association, AstraZeneca has introduced the 'Health Innovation Network', with the 'Digital Lung Health' project set to benefit 100,000 people this year alone.

The Friendship Medal not only honours Nitin Kapoor's significant contributions but also affirms AstraZeneca's influential role in Vietnam's healthcare, as recognised by the Prime Minister and the Minister of Health for exemplary contributions to vaccine diplomacy, cancer treatment, the COVID-19 response, and patient support.

The company's repeated accolades from international business communities and recognition as one of Vietnam's Top 100 Best Places to Work further attest to its commitment to healthcare excellence.

AstraZeneca Vietnam and HSAACI enter cooperation agreement AstraZeneca Vietnam and the Society of Asthma, Allergy and Clinical Immunology of Ho Chi Minh City (HSAACI) unveiled a comprehensive strategic cooperation memorandum on October 2 that aims to help medical and community healthcare workers to manage and treat respiratory diseases.

AstraZeneca Vietnam partners with Can Tho city to improve health services AstraZeneca Vietnam and Can Tho city officials signed an agreement on November 14 to work together on health projects and create a lasting healthcare system.
Gamuda Land has over two decades of experience in developing townships, high-rise developments, country clubs, and commercial real estate. The Malaysian real estate developers international foothold is further strengthened by its projects in Australia, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Vietnam. In this country, some of its high-profile, award-winning projects include Gamuda City, Celadon City, Artisan Park, Elysian, and Eaton Park.

ASAI Hotel landscape by the lake, Gamuda Cove, Malaysia. Source: Gamuda Land

Slated to open in Q1/2026, the hotel is situated next to the sprawling Paya Indah Discovery Wetlands within the thoughtfully planned Gamuda Cove.

Spanning 1,530 acres, Gamuda Cove will also include vibrant residential and commercial areas to complement a range of eco-friendly tourism attractions, such as the already operational SplashMania Waterpark and Discovery Park, all designed with sustainability and a low carbon footprint in mind.

Kuala Lumpur airport is only 20 minutes away by car, and the city centre can be reached in just 40 minutes. This strategic location caters to both domestic and international travellers, enhancing the overall accessibility and appeal of the destination.

Operating under Dusit's distinctive locally focused lifestyle brand, ASAI Hotels, which promises to uniquely link curious travellers with authentic local experiences in the worlds most vibrant neighbourhoods, the 280-key ASAI Gamuda Cove hotel enjoys the distinction of being the first hotel signed under Dusits expanded ASAI Tropical model, which is specifically tailored to properties located in areas of outstanding natural beauty.

The signing ceremony between Gamuda Land and Dusit Hotels and Resorts. Source: Gamuda Land

Like Dusits operational inner-city ASAI Hotels in Bangkok, Thailand, and Kyoto, Japan, ASAI Tropical hotels will feature thoughtfully compact rooms delivering a distinctive blend of thoughtful essentials, such as plush beds and invigorating showers, complemented by an inviting communal space and locally inspired dining experience.

What sets the model apart is the provision of a broader range of facilities. In this case, an infinity pool, more dining venues, expanded event spaces, and a wider variety of room categories, including spacious, family-friendly options.

Strategically situated in the southern region of the Gamuda Cove development, ASAI Gamuda Cove will be designed to forge a sense of community by integrating local identity into its design language. Surrounded by lush, green landscapes, the hotel will blend seamlessly with the adjacent wetlands and a sprawling 90-acre Wetlands Arboretum, accessible directly from the hotel.

Further highlighting Gamuda Coves green credentials, an e-tram network, the first of its kind in Malaysia, will seamlessly link guests to hotspots within the development, such as Discovery Park, SplashMania Waterpark, and a pedestrian-only commercial hub, helping to limit the use of motorised vehicles and reduce the carbon footprint.

Regular community-based activities and events will give guests a unique taste of local culture and experiences while highlighting the importance of responsible tourism.

ASAI Gamuda Cove is set to cater to both domestic and international tourists who will visit Gamuda Coves host of ecotourism activities, such as SplashMania Waterpark, Discovery Park, and Paya Indah Discovery Wetlands  attracting a targeted 1 million visitors annually.

According to Gilles Cretallaz, COO of Dusit International, to be entrusted with the management of the first hotel within the dynamic Gamuda Cove development truly is an honour, and the company is delighted to partner with Gamuda Land to help bring its vision for its first-ever hotel project to life.

With its stunning location and sustainable credentials, Gamuda Cove perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the ASAI brand, and we look forward to delivering a unique and unforgettable hotel experience that immerses guests in the diverse cultural tapestry of Malaysia and the natural beauty of the wetlands, all while contributing enduring value to our esteemed partners and the community we serve, Cretallaz said.

Eusoffe Chua, CCO of Gamuda Land, expressed that Gamuda Cove is a mindfully planned township development offering exciting eco-friendly tourism activities including adventure and water parks.

The master plan comprises residential and commercial elements, including schools, universities, medical centres, vibrant retail spaces, and offices with convenient access to Putrajaya, Cyberjaya, and Kuala Lumpur, said Chua.

In our collaboration with Dusit, we are thrilled to align with a strategic partner that shares our unwavering commitment to creating interconnected spaces where everyone can seamlessly integrate their living, working, and recreational experiences. The ASAI brand, with its focus on delivering unforgettable local experiences, precisely caters to the evolving needs of today's local and international travellers. We eagerly anticipate a synergistic and enduring partnership as we invite guests to immerse themselves in the wonders of Gamuda Cove, Chua added.

Dusits property portfolio currently spans 19 countries and comprises 56 hotels operating under Dusit Hotels and Resorts, as well as approximately 240 luxury villas under Elite Havens. More than 60 Dusit Hotels and Resorts are in the pipeline worldwide.

Gamuda Land acquires $315 million project in Ho Chi Minh City Gamuda Land, a property arm of Malaysian Gamuda Bhd, is continuing to expand its portfolio in Vietnam by acquiring a third project in Ho Chi Minh City after two acquisitions done last year.

Vietnams real estate thirsty for M&A deals Mergers and acquisitions between domestic and international real estate developers were down in the first half of the year, but could be a future bright spot with Vietnam boasting attractive economic fundamentals and investors biding their time.

Gamuda Land paves the way for students with 2023 Scholarship Award The five best young talents from across the country won Gamuda Scholarships Awards on September 24 in Ho Chi Minh City.
Secretary of Hai Duong Party Committee Tran Duc Thang at a meeting with Takafumi Ueda, director of Fujita

The information was shared by Secretary of Hai Duong Party Committee Secretary Tran Duc Thang at a meeting with Ueda Takafumi, general manager, Vietnam Office, International Business Department of Fujita Corporation, on November 30.

At the meeting, Ueda asked for support from Hai Duong Peoples Committee to accelerate procedures to prepare for the construction of the Dai An urban service and industrial park complex, which is a partnership between Dai An JSC and some Japanese firms.

"The project is valued at $300 million, and the construction will be divided into many phases. The urban and service area is inspired by the Japanese style. It will contribute to creating stable working conditions for expats who are living in Hai Duong and local people, paving the way to attract foreign capital inflows," he said.

"Fujita will contribute a part of the capital to the project, meanwhile, our partner Dai An is responsible for the licence and land clearance. We hope that the preparations will be completed soon so we can start the construction of the complex in the autumn of 2024," Ueda added.

Fujita, which has been present in Vietnam for over 30 years, is a subsidiary of Daiwa House Group, one of Japan's largest construction and land management companies.

Secretary of Hai Duong Party Committee Tran Duc Thang said, The province currently has thousands of hectares of clear land to attract foreign investors, especially Japanese firms. We would like to invite Japanese companies due to their prestige and responsibility.

Hai Duongs legal and administrative system has been regularly reviewed and perfected, ensuring transparency and accessibility for investors. In addition, the province is implementing decisive solutions to quickly recover production and ensure the livelihoods of its people. The province focuses on administrative reform, guiding and urging investors to complete investment, land, and construction procedures to create the fastest conditions for them when implementing projects, Thang stated.

Thang added that the province often organises meetings to drive the implementation of projects, listen to the opinions of the business community, and issue solutions to resolve their problems quickly.

Dai An Industrial Park, where the investors have plans to develop the urban service area

Thanks to the effort to improve its investment environment, the province achieved a breakthrough in attracting foreign-invested capital this year.

In the first eleven months of this year, it drew $1.1 billion in foreign funding, triple the figure for the same period last year.

Hai Duong Industrial Zones Management Authority has issued investment registration certificates for 45 new foreign-invested projects with a total capital of $771 million. Additionally, capital has been increased for 26 foreign-led projects, with a total addition of almost $118 million. 25 projects are located outside the industrial parks (IPs) and 49 projects are in IPs.

Three outstanding foreign-invested projects combine a $270 million stationery plant invested in by the Deli Group Co., Ltd. at the expanded Dai An IP. The plant covers an area of 212,400 square metres and is expected to employ some 3,000 personnel and post annual revenue of $5 million once operational.

Another project will see the construction of a plant manufacturing solar photovoltaic cells at the Cong Hoa IP in Chi Linh city. The project is led by BoViet Solar, a subsidiary of Chinas Boway Alloy, with a total capital of $120 million.

The third is a plant which specialises in manufacturing glass and plastics products, optical devices, and tools. The project is funded by the Singaporean investor Biel Crystal Plc. with capital of $160 million.

New foreign-invested projects primarily focus on manufacturing and processing, and electricity and electronics, with most investors coming from Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, China, and Taiwan.

Doosan Group commits $120 million investment in Hai Duong Doosan Group pledges $120 million investment for the expansion of an automotive electronic component manufacturing facility in the northern province of Hai Duong.

Boway Group to invest $350 million in solar manufacturing facility China's Boway Group has inked a land lease agreement in Cong Hoa Industrial Park in the northern province of Hai Duong. The group is planning a $350 million advanced solar manufacturing facility, with operations set to commence in 2024.

Thanh Cong Group pledges to invest $94 million in Hai Duong Thanh Cong Group, a dominant player in the automotive space, has just unveiled plans to invest $94 million in Hai Duong, signalling big hope on the northern province's growth potential.

Waffer and Boway eye new investments in Hai Duong Waffer Group and Boway Group have expressed their intention to develop manufacturing facilities for vehicle parts and solar energy in the northern province of Hai Duong.
Interview: Enhance China-Europe exchanges, urges Catedra China's president emeritus

Xinhua) 10:20, December 06, 2023

MADRID, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- Marcelo Munoz, president emeritus of the non-profit association Catedra China, believes it is vital to increase bilateral cultural, economic and personal exchanges between China and Europe.

In an interview with Xinhua, Munoz, also dean of the Spanish businessmen and businesswomen in China, said that "the European Union must open itself much more to relations and cooperation with China and must put aside its misgivings, reluctance and resistance to maintain a frank, sincere and continuous dialogue."

The 24th China-EU Summit has been slated for Thursday in Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet with President of the European Council Charles Michel and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. Chinese Premier Li Qiang, President Charles Michel and President Ursula von der Leyen will jointly chair the summit.

Munoz considers it vital for the EU to lose the "tutelage" of the United States and pursue an autonomous relationship with China as soon as possible" as "friendly collaboration between the European Union and China" would be "very beneficial" for both sides and for the world as a whole.

Munoz considers cultural relations between Spain and China to be "good," but highlights that Chinese citizens find it difficult to get visas to Spain. Also, there are "only just over 15,000" Chinese university students studying in Spain, he said, despite Spanish being "the second most spoken native language in the world."

The number of Chinese tourists visiting Spain also needs to increase, given that Spain is "one of the leading tourist destinations in the world" with an "enormous wealth" of attractions.

One way to increase the number of Chinese tourists visiting Spain would be for Spain to follow China's lead and reciprocally "end visa requirements" for Chinese visitors.

"This would immediately result in an increase in personal exchanges, especially for millions of Chinese tourists who want to visit Spain," Munoz said.

Under a visa-free entry policy effective from Dec. 1, ordinary passport holders from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia are now able to enjoy visa-free travel to China for up to 15 days.

A very positive aspect of bilateral relations is the "increasing number of visits to Spain by groups of Chinese leaders at the state, provincial and even municipal levels." Spanish leaders are also making more visits to China to "get to know the country better" and "debate its policies and position in the world of the 21st century."

"I want to highlight that, among these exchanges, we are also including those of groups of young Spaniards, who are being invited to get to know China up close, who are the ones who will have to promote better relations between our two countries in the coming decades," he said.

According to Munoz, Spain, in its capacity as holder of the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union during the second half of 2023, should push for the ratification of the "investment agreement, signed three years ago, which would greatly benefit both parties and would contribute to overcoming many prejudices and reluctance in relation to China."

He said he also wanted Spain to "pressure the leading organizations of the European Union so that Europe adheres to the Belt and Road program," and to "resume negotiations" to make the port of Algeciras (in south-west Spain) a trade hub for products for "all of Europe and all of Africa," thus "taking advantage of the fact that the ports of Barcelona, Valencia and Algeciras will be terminal ports for several major corridors of the great Euro-Asian connectivity project."

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Reshuffle not seen as punitive measure for failed Expo bid

By Kang Seung-woo

President Yoon Suk Yeol is expected to replace Foreign Minister Park Jin in the near future, as the top diplomat, who is also a veteran politician, is seeking to run for a fifth term at the National Assembly, according to a high-placed source with direct knowledge of the Cabinet reshuffle.

The foreign minister recently told President Yoon about his decision to run in the general elections, the source told The Korea Times. After his talk with Park, the president is said to have decided to replace his first foreign minister.

Park is a four-term lawmaker of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) representing the Gangnam-B electoral district.

His replacement will come after President Yoon returns from his state visit to the Netherlands, the source added.

Yoon is scheduled to visit the Netherlands from Dec. 11 to 14 at the invitation of Dutch King Willem-Alexander, becoming the first Korean president to pay a state visit to the European nation since the two countries established diplomatic ties in 1961.

After former Unification Minister Kwon Young-se, a fellow four-term lawmaker, returned to the party in June to prepare for the general elections scheduled for April 10, 2024, Park has been seen as the next high-profile politician to quit the Cabinet for the parliamentary race.

His envisaged candidacy comes a week after the Korean port city of Busan failed in a bid to host the World Expo 2030. Last week, Saudi Arabia won the right to host the event after beating Korea 119-29 in a secret ballot held at the Bureau International des Expositions in Paris.

The resounding defeat prompted Yoon to make his first public apology, while triggering criticism over his foreign policy team, including Park who also apologized for the failed bid.

However, Park being replaced has nothing to do with the failed Expo bid, the source said.

Although the foreign minister will be replaced, it is not about censuring him for the Expo failure. It is just a matter of timing, the source added.

The affluent Gangnam electorate has traditionally been the conservative camp's home turf, and thus a popular constituency among PPP candidates.

In that sense, it remains to be seen if Park will secure the Gangnam constituency, according to political observers.

Meanwhile, in the wake of Parks Assembly bid, Yoon is trying to reorganize his national security team. Currently, the top post of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) has been vacated by the sudden departure of its director Kim Kyou-hyun earlier this month.

National Security Adviser Cho Tae-yong is expected to move to the NIS, while former Vice Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul is among the candidates being considered to be appointed as the next foreign minister.
Since beginning to support the national innovation startup ecosystem from 2016, Vietnam has improved its ranking from being the second-least dynamic startup ecosystem among the six largest countries in ASEAN last year.

Hoang Minh, Deputy Minister of Science and Technology

According to the Global Innovation Index report released in October, Vietnam moved up two places from its innovation input ranking in 2022, and is now 57th. Vietnams output of innovation increased one place to 40th.

The ranking index of the StartupBlink global startup ecosystem ranking in 2023 also shows that the ecosystems of Vietnamese cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have improved, thus contributing to ranking Vietnam 58th in the world.

Venture capital in Vietnam grew from $634 million in 2022 to nearly $431 million in the first half of 2023. These numbers indicate that Vietnams innovation startup ecosystem is on a growth path and showing strong potential.

The ultimate goal is to create a favourable environment for the formation and development of innovation startups, creating outstanding value for the economy and society. Therefore, there needs to be legal corridors, policies, and strong supporting entities, specifically innovation startup support centres, as the nucleus to mobilise and tap into resources locally, centrally, from the private sector, and from abroad.

To carry out these tasks, the Minister of Science and Technology (MoST) in 2021 began to guide the formation and development of innovation startup centres in localities and ministries, industries, and organisations with the potential to develop innovation startups. It emphasises that the formation of the centre must be based on internal resources and practical needs of localities, becoming a connection point of resources for regional, national and international links.

Many innovation startup support units have been formed across the country from the private sector, public sector, and international organisations under diverse models. Nearly 20 localities have innovation startup support centres, and nearly 100 incubators and business promotion organisations. Many innovation startup centres of international organisations have opened their branches in Vietnam or coordinated with partners to open innovation spaces in the country.

As a state management agency, taking the responsibility of presiding over the implementation of innovation, sci-tech activities, the MoST recognises the need to have the legal corridor, policies, and strong support units, specifically innovation startup support centres to tap into, link, and optimise resources. Therefore, the position, legal status, state management role, and the role of the public and private sectors are important issues that need to be clarified.

In addition, resources supporting for the operation of these centres, financial policies for their operation and financial mechanisms for the provision of public services, training activities, capacity building, incubation, market development, and others should be promoted.

This also requires many breakthrough policies, especially support from the state for the early stages of innovation startups, and mechanisms to develop the market and draw in resources from international investment.

Attention to developing innovation startup centres in localities, especially in localities with newly formed ecosystems, should be promoted. In addition, cities and provinces also need to build their own ecosystem development strategy, based on exploiting local resources and strengths.

At the same time, they need to strive to create an open innovation ecosystem with the participation of local authorities, businesses, and domestic and foreign experts to solve new economic and social challenges.

The MoST has been assigned by the government to build a scheme to develop a system of organisations supporting innovation startups until 2035, and submit it to the government in January 2024. Proposals and recommendations about this issue will soon be summarised and updated.

We also expect to submit to a decree stipulating mechanisms, policies, criteria, tasks and incentives for organisations supporting innovation startups, and innovation startup centres.

With a specific, clear, transparent legal framework, and support from national programmes, schemes and projects, we hope to boost the overall strength of innovation startup support organisations nationwide.

Innovative startups eyeing fresh opportunities A new annual event called Inno Vietnam-Japan Fast Track Pitch took place in Hanoi on August 29 to showcase innovative startups.
The event was jointly organised by Siemens Vietnam and Advanced Information Technologies Corporation (AIT). This significantly marks the development and cooperation between the two major brands in transferring and receiving technology for directly producing SIVACON S4 switchboards.

The moment of the cooperation ceremony between Siemens Vietnam and AIT

With well-invested machinery and infrastructure, the switchboard  from Siemens and manufactured in Vietnam by AIT - complements the SIVACON S8 switchboard, which offers more options to middle and upper-class customers in terms of office buildings, supermarkets, hotels, and industrial parks. The SIVACON S4 switchboard will ensure high requirements for constant and efficient power supply, optimisation of operation and installation area.

The SIVACON S4

Moving towards a green, circular, sustainable, inclusive and humane economy is an inevitable tendency for national growth. Vietnamese corporations are making efforts to accompany the government to achieve its commitment of net-zero emissions by 2050.

In such spirit, AIT and Siemens organised the seminar Sustainable Development and Net Zero Carbon 2050 - Vision and Challenges to discuss the advantages of renewable energy in Vietnam, the construction orientation and the active greenhouse gas emission reduction measures along with the international communitys cooperation and support and technology transfer, including implementing mechanisms under the Paris Agreement.

The seminar was participated in by Tang The Hung, vice president of the National Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Development Programme under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT); Dr. Pham Thai Lai, president and CEO of Siemens AEAN and Vietnam; Nghiem Xuan Da, general director of VNSteel and chairman of the Vietnam Steel Association; and Douglas Snyder, CEO of the Vietnam Green Building Council.

The speakers of the seminar

During the seminar, Hung reiterated the Vietnamese governments commitments at COP 28 on implementing the net-zero emissions by 2050. In particular, he emphasised that the MoIT will focus on three main areas: developing mechanisms and policies to promote net-zero emissions; promoting actions to raise awareness of entities and citizens; and building resources to support entities operating in Vietnam to achieve green and sustainable development goals, towards carbon neutrality.

Following up, Snyder mentioned the importance of managing risks related to sustainable development goals. For instance, the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) has officially taken effect in Vietnam; and after COP 28, the government may promulgate stricter regulations to ensure that entities adopt green practices. Additionally, consumers are increasingly seeking out environmentally friendly products that emit less carbon.

Da, from a business perspective, has expressed that Net Zero presents both an opportunity and a huge challenge. This is because the steel industry is one of the largest producers of emissions, accounting for 8 per cent of total CO2 emissions according to statistics from the International Energy Agency. VNSteel, as one of the entities targeting to produce green steel, aims to transform its production technology by using green energy hydrogen, and automating and digitising production lines to improve energy efficiency. However, the entity needs to solve the problem of properly allocating human, financial, and time resources to ensure competitive advantage while still achieving the governments carbon-neutral goal.

It is expected that by focusing on the goals and orientations mentioned at the seminar, as well as moving from the likes of Siemens Vietnam and AIT, will contribute to positive signals in green energy development.

The delegates attended the event

AIT was established in 2003. It mainly operates as an EPC contractor providing a full package of solutions in design, materials and equipment supply, construction of substations and tranmission lines of distribution and transmission grids up to 500kV. Equipped with modern machinery lines, AIT currently owns a factory manufacturing high-quality control and protection panels up to 500kV and low-voltage panels for industrial parks. AIT prioritises becoming an investor in power source development, building renewable energy plants, expanding production; and bringing sustainable values to Vietnam's energy industry. Siemens Vietnam, present in the country since 1993, owns offices in Hanoi, Danang and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as an electrical busbar factory located in Binh Duong province with around 200 employees. The company is a leading provider of efficient power transmission and distribution solutions as well as a pioneer in infrastructure, automation, drive and software solutions for industrial section. While Siemens smart grid solutions have been contributing to automating and stabilising Vietnam's power grid, they also help to resolve the instability of energy sources. The company's automation solutions have supported customers to gain efficiency in industries such as water treatment, food and beverages, paper, cement, machinery, chemicals, metals and others. Siemens smart building technology guides to achieve the highest standards of environmental protection and assists in reducing energy consumption needs, creating a healthy, safe, efficient and sustainable environment. For nearly three decades, Siemens has been rooted for customers and partners with efficient and profitable operation by providing a wide range of innovative products, solutions and services. Siemens is the partner that Vietnamese customers often opt for which has been actively contributing to the industrialisation process and the sustainable socio-economic development of Vietnam. Furthermore, Siemens is actively giving Vietnam a hand in digital transformation and seizing the opportunities of the Industrial Revolution 4.0.

Sustainability: its time to step up and act together Becoming more sustainable is no longer a nice-to-have: its a business imperative. Dr. Pham Thai Lai, president and CEO of Siemens ASEAN and Vietnam, spoke to VIR's Thanh Tung about how Siemens is leading the way towards carbon neutrality and how the company has been assisting its customers to meet individual decarbonisation goals.
Vietnamese citizens repatriated from Myanmar handle entry procedures at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi on early December 5. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  As many as 338 Vietnamese citizens stranded in the conflict zone in the north of Myanmar were safely evacuated to the homeland on December 4.

The repatriation, aiming to ensure absolute safety for citizens, was conducted under the Governments direction by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), the Ministry of Public Security, relevant agencies of Vietnam, and partner countries. All repatriation fees were covered by the Government.As conflicts and complex developments continue in Myanmar, threatening the lives of Vietnamese citizens there, the MoFA is coordinating with domestic agencies, overseas representative agencies of Vietnam, authorities of Myanmar, and partner countries to bring them home.More than 800 Vietnamese citizens have been granted travel documents and eligible to be repatriated, according to the Vietnamese Embassy in Myanmar.They will be pided into groups for repatriation, and the first arrived in Vietnam on December 4. Most of the evacuees are young, including those working at online gambling establishments in northern states of Myanmar, abandoned by employers, and stranded there due to conflicts between the host countrys military and local ethnic minorities.Vietnamese who remain stranded or need help can phone the Vietnamese Embassy in Myanmar via its citizen protection hotline +959660888998; or the MoFAs Consular Department via the citizen protection switchboard +84 981 84 84 84, +84 965 41 11 18, or email baohocongdan@gmail.com.
The Made in Vietnam Energy Plan (MVEP) 3.0 report, published by the Vietnam Business Forums Power and Energy Working Group in mid-November, said that the country needs needed clearer regulations and policies to support a clean-energy boom that would sustain its manufacturing ambitions.

It added that the country lacks clarity on policy and pricing, undercutting investor confidence and slowing negotiations on measures that would speed progress, for example allowing direct power purchases from energy producers.

The lack of a clear long-term vision, and inconsistent policies are identified as barriers to investment and sustainability in Vietnams renewable energy sector, the report said.

John Rockhold, head of the Power and Energy Working Group Steering Committee under the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam, said, The most significant barriers for the development of renewable energy in Vietnam are divided into four groups of policies and legal framework: technology, standards, bankability, and human resources. Of these, bankability and its obstacles are relevant to power purchase agreements (PPAs), exposure to grid curtailment is an issue, while high risks related to project approval and perms are a headache.

Bankability troubles

The transition from fossil fuels to meet the zero-carbon target by 2050 in Vietnam requires a lot of time, effort, and resources. The estimated $131 billion possibly needed for new power generation projects is expected to come from international and domestic private investors, with international power companies and development finance institutions identified as potential funding sources.

Furthermore, there is a perception that the global appetite for financing fossil fuel projects is diminishing, while the appetite for financing nuclear projects remains steady.

The MVEP emphasised that financing large power projects in Vietnam is seen as extraordinarily difficult, with some reporting instances of such projects falling through. Issues include the lack of a legal framework, approvals, PPA, pricing, funding mechanisms, and poor project management. Difficulties in financing liquefied natural gas power projects contribute to these challenges for development.

Offshore gas pricing has been long delayed. Small-scale solar photovoltaic projects have received high support from local banks and investors, while offshore wind projects face the lowest level of support, possibly due to the complexity of the development and uncertainty of the regulatory time frame, and the hesitancy to invest large amounts of capital about $1.5-3 billion for an initial offshore wind farm of approximately 1GW capacity, the MVEP report said.

Vietnam agreed on a $15.5 billion Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) funding deal last year to help finance its transition away from coal and to bring its peak-emissions date forward to 2030, but the plan has hit various hurdles around the cost of the funding.

The agreement calls for 47 per cent of Vietnams electricity to be generated from renewable sources by 2030, significantly higher than the 39 per cent forecast by the governments power development roadmap. To attract more renewable energy investments, PPAs need to conform to international standards, the report said.

On the bankability of PPAs, within Vietnam, there is a well-founded concern regarding curtailment risk, particularly with the significant rise in solar capacity observed in 2019 and 2020, Rockhold said. This surge had notable impacts on power system operations, leading to several solar projects to halt production unnecessarily, causing difficulties in repaying loans to banks on time.

Vietnams government is not keen to guarantee agreements between investors and Vietnam Electricity (EVN), and that is apt to throw a wrench in the funding of projects through the JETP, Rockhold added.

The market landscape and financing demands are rising rapidly with each passing year. According to the financial results of major listed banks in Vietnam, electricity investment has increased from tens of billions of US dollars in 2021 to about $100 billion in 2025. This is set to grow by more than $200 billion in 2030 and $628 billion in 2050.

Meanwhile, if the growth rate of domestic bank loan balances is assumed to be 14 per cent per year, domestic bank loan balances will be $366 billion by 2050, far short of the money required.

Therefore, to implement the goals set forth, bankability is deemed critical. Some institutions are committed to decarbonisation of the global economy to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, and almost a dozen financial institutions have committed to mobilise at least an additional $7.75 billion in private finance. International finance groups are ready to engage as soon as bankable projects emerge.

Recommendations for PPAs

Kojima Masao, managing director and regional head of Vietnam at MUFG Bank, said that large-scale projects with long tenor and big-ticket sizes need project finance. The involvement of institutional lenders, such as export credit agencies and multilateral development banks, is necessary.

Under global practice, the current PPA is not bankable to major international financiers, he said. From global investor and lender perspectives, the bankability issue is unique to the Vietnam market.

Masao proposed that relevant risk allocation between the public and private sectors should be balanced to encourage large new investments into the power sector. This should be reflected in the PPA.

Specifically, in the PPA currently, EVN does not have the contractual obligation to purchase its entire production from wind and solar projects. The group only pays for the electricity it receives (a take-and-pay obligation), with no minimum purchase. Curtailment is due to, among others, constraints on grid stability, transmission and distribution system overload, local demand, and overall generation costs.

The tariff is indexed to USD but paid in VND, and there is no statutory obligation or clear guidance for the Ministry of Industry and Trade to approve electricity price adjustment due to foreign exchange rate fluctuation. Foreign exchange rate fluctuation affects not only foreign loan debt servicing but also imported fuel costs and other foreign currency denominated operating costs, as no guarantee provided in respect of VND to USD.

In the event of a change in law that impacts the projects economic outlook, no remedies are provided. There is also uncertainty as to the level and components of cancellation amounts in the event of PPA termination, and whether EVN will compensate an amount that is sufficient to cover outstanding debts and/or incurred investment costs, Masao said.

He proposed that where there is an unfavourable change in the law or tax regime in Vietnam, the investor is entitled to an additional tariff and/or some other cost recovery measures to ensure cost recovery and maintain the level of investment return assumed in the projects feasibility study or agreed financial model for the remaining period of the project.

Model PPAs should include a buy-out mechanism with pre-determined purchase prices subject to different termination events. Termination of the PPA due to an EVN default should provide termination payments enough to cover outstanding debt and/or incurred investment costs, he added.

The Power Development Plan VIII sets out a vision for investment in Vietnams electricity sector to 2050, with a focus on renewable energy and new technologies. Currently, Vietnam generates 24GW, about half of its electricity, from coal-fired power plants, with growth to 30-37GW by 2030. With the goal of reducing the share of coal-fired power in the electricity mix, the plan sets a target of not building any new coal-fired power plants after 2030. By 2050, Vietnam will no longer use coal for power generation. Coal-fired power plants that have been in operation for 20 years will be converted to use biomass and ammonia fuel. Coal-fired power plants that are over 40 years old and do not convert to other fuels will be shut down. The roadmap is intended to help Vietnam reduce its reliance on coal and focus on the use of clean energy sources. The government also emphasises the role of international cooperation in research, technology transfer, financing, and capacity building from foreign partners. In particular, the Just Energy Transition Partnership is an important solution for the energy transition process in Vietnam. This is relevant to transition to a low-carbon economy and support Vietnams green development in the future. Currently, the Ministry of Industry and Trade is urgently developing the implementation plan.
Quang Ngais development planning for the rest of the decade, with a vision towards 2050, was signed and approved by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha on November 22.

The planning boundary of Quang Ngai covers just over 5,000 square kilometres of natural area, encompassing both land territory and marine space.

Part of Quang Ngai province

In light of the fresh planning scheme, Quang Ngai aims to shine among the well-developed localities in the country, with enhanced autonomy and adaptability to economic fluctuations.

It will focus on developing digital, green, and circular economies, gradually attracting green and high-tech industry to its local industrial parks.

At the same time, it will build high-quality services, with an emphasis on tourism, and promote high-tech agricultural models, with a focus on organic and circular agriculture.

The provinces fresh planning scheme serves as a fundamental element and a launch pad for Quang Ngai to accelerate its investment attraction and develop all aspects of the province.

Other tasks involve improving its infrastructure to serve the development of green and smart cities, forming the national energy and petrochemical refining centre in the Dung Quat economic zone (EZ), and developing Ly Son island district into a stunning sea-island tourism centre.

There will be continued investment into infrastructure development at important industrial areas, especially the Dung Quat EZ, proactively promoting the connection between it and the Chu Lai Open EZ to form a key coastal industrial centre.

The average regional GDP growth rate for the 2021-2030 period is expected to reach 7.25-8.25 per cent per year, of which the growth of the agriculture, forestry, and fishery sector should achieve 4-5 per cent, that of the industrial sector should hit 8.25-9.25 per cent, and the service sector is targetting 10-11 per cent annually.

The regional GDP per capita stands at about $7,700-7,900, and the urbanisation rate is expected to surpass 50 per cent. The total social investment capital for the period from 2021-2030 comes to about $17.3 billion.

Leaders of Quang Ngai People's Committee said that from the beginning of this term, the province has focused on completing its planning as it is an important legal basis for localities to focus on calling for and allocating investment resources.

Nguyen Van Trong, director of Quang Ngai Department of Planning and Investment said, "The provinces fresh planning scheme serves as a fundamental element and a launch pad for Quang Ngai to accelerate its investment attraction and develop all aspects of the province."

Quang Ngai invests in seaport infrastructure The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of the central coastal province of Quang Ngai has proposed the provincial Peoples Committee and central agencies pay more attention to investment in infrastructure at local fishing ports.

Quang Ngai province to focus on development The new mission of Quang Ngai province is to become the growth pole of the central region and significantly contribute to the development of the country.
The event was taking place for the first time

The reality show, called Students of a New Generation 2023, is dedicated to creating exciting competition for Vietnamese university students to learn and practice their soft skills and develop creative thinking. The final round of the competition, featuring the top three finalists, took place on November 11, and was broadcast live on VTV3.

The three teams that qualified for the final round were the Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy with their project on first aid skills for the community; Thai Nguyen Medical University with their project on preventing tuberculosis; and the Ho Chi Minh City Economics University with their project using the circular economy to increase farm produce value.

Students from Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy won the top prize

The three finalists went through four intense competition rounds: presenting their project summary report; team counterargument; calling for investment; and students of a new generation.

With the most convincing performance, the University of Medicine and Pharmacy team was named the winner of the competition.

We are very impressed by the talent, knowledge, creativity, and environmental, social and governance awareness demonstrated by these Generation Z students. This partnership with VTV3 aligns with our strong commitment to supporting people who strive to thrive and realise their full potential, said Vu Van Thang, general manager for Herbalife Vietnam and Cambodia.

I hope that all relevant stakeholders and the wider community will continuously support the young generation, Gen Z students in particular, in their pursuit of dreams.

In addition to valuable prizes with $4,200 for the champion and $2,100 for the runners-up, the champions and runners-up also received meaningful support from sponsors, who pledged to provide communications sponsorship to help the projects by the University of Medicine and Pharmacy and Thai Nguyen Medical University become more widely known to the Vietnamese public.

Organised for the first time this year, Students of a New Generation received active participation from thousands of Gen Z students from 40 universities nationwide. Students were excited about the opportunity to learn and compete in a variety of competencies comprising teamwork, leadership, presentation, project management, and creativity.

Herbalife Vietnam renews partnership to improve nutrition for over 1,100 children In June, Herbalife Vietnam organised a series of partnership renewal ceremonies with seven Casa Herbalife partners nationwide.

VTV3 to launch student reality show with support of Herbalife Vietnam Dedicated to creating exciting competitions for Vietnamese university students to learn and practice soft skills and develop creative thinking, the reality show "Students of New Generation 2023" will be broadcast on August 31 on VTV3.
Thai government approves 225-million-USD scheme to tackle PM2.5 pollution (Source: nationthailand.com)

Bangkok  Thailands government has greenlighted incentives worth 8 billion THB (225 million USD) for sugarcane farmers who agree to cut fresh sugarcane without burning the residue, a move aimed at helping reduce the amount of PM2.5 dust in the 2022-2023 harvest year.



According to Rudklao Suwankiri, the government's deputy spokesperson, funding to support the scheme will be sourced from the state-owned Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives. Under the scheme, the government will offer farmers who agree to cut fresh sugarcane without burning the residue 120 THB (3.4 USD) per tonne.



According to Rudklao, the government has identified the need to urgently address the issue of PM2.5 pollution which has worsened every year and affects the health of millions of people.



The government then came up with incentives for the agriculture sector and sought closer cooperation with neighbouring countries to help tackle these issues.



Rudklao also insisted the incentives offered for this project do not violate the agreements of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), as they are designed to assist sugarcane farmers in promoting the cutting of fresh sugarcane, reducing air pollution and PM2.5 dust.



This aligns with WTO provisions under the Green Box category for environmental protection in agriculture without negatively impacting production and commodity prices.



Thailand's sugar cane output is estimated at 82.4 million tonnes in the 2023-2024 crop year, with domestic sugar consumption projected at 25.7 million sacks, which represents 2.57 million tonnes.

Thailand steps up smart city development Thailand is accelerating the development of smart cities, aiming to enhance the country's digital capabilities and the quality of life for urban communities towards a sustainable future, said Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Phumtham Wechayachai.
Located in the centre of District 3, Mai House Saigon Hotel is the ideal location for foreign and local travellers as well as foodies. Throughout the festive season, the hotel will host several cuisine highlights at Thom Lounge and 'Cest La Vie' Restaurant.

As Christmas approaches, the atmosphere at Mai House Saigon Hotel is filled with joy, excitement, and warmth. This year, in collaboration with Ember Brown, a brand specialising in exquisite home fragrances and oils, the most fragrant Christmas tree in town has been lit up and filled with enchanting aromas. The blend of holiday spirit and aromatic pleasure is ideal for evoking festive memories.

The 'C'est La Vie' Restaurant is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas and New Year's Eve with an oceanic feast. The sumptuous seafood buffet promises an unforgettable experience, brimming with abundant fresh and succulent treasures from the ocean.

From luxurious lobsters boasting tender, buttery meat to the majestic allure of delicate crabs, every offering is a testament to the ocean's finest delights. Each bite takes you on a journey of exquisite taste and texture.

Mai House Saigon Hotel is also proud to present its iconic holiday-themes specialities, adding a touch of tradition and warmth to our celebrations. Picture a beautifully roasted whole turkey, its golden skin glistening as it embodies the essence of Christmas and New Year's gatherings.

For more promotions, visit: https://www.facebook.com/MaiHouseSG

Lotte Hotel Saigon helps couples realise their dream weddings Lotte Hotel Saigon is here to help you find everything you need for your dream wedding and to make the coming together of friends and family a smooth and memorable experience for all.

Lotte Hotel Saigon launches mooncake collection Lotte Hotel Saigon is launching its Mau Don Phu Quy mooncake collection with the message beautiful peony, full of wealth, sending its best wishes to every family across the nation.

Fusion Hotel Group launches business hotel brand Fusion Hotel Group, Vietnams fully integrated hospitality and management company, has announced the launch of HIIVE.
PM Pham Minh Chinh and PM Mette Frederiksen

Meeting at COP28 in Dubai, both Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen praised the long and fruitful cooperation between the two countries, especially in the area of climate change and the energy transition.

On the occasion of Vietnams launch of its resource mobilisation plan for the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), of which Denmark is a member alongside the G7 countries, the European Union, and Norway, PM Frederiksen congratulated PM Chinh and the government of Vietnam on the important step towards implementing the JETP.

"At this critical moment in Vietnams transition, Denmark and the International Partner Groups stand ready to support it to get on track to deliver on its ambitious net-zero 2050 goal. Denmark has more than 40 years of experience, and we have shown that the green transition can be a driver for jobs and green economic growth. We are committed to sharing our experience and know-how to support Vietnams just energy transition," PM Frederiksen said.

At COP28, Denmark announced a total of $50 million of support for the most climate-vulnerable countries. Half of the committed total will be allocated to the new loss and damage fund that was agreed to on the first day of COP28. Denmark will also launch the Alliance Group of Negative Emitters, aimed at initiating a race to the top among countries to determine ambitious mitigation goals.

Denmark is pushing for an agreement on a global phase out of fossil fuels and global targets for massively scaling up renewable energy and improving efficiency. In Vietnam, Denmark is supporting such ambitious targets through the Joint Energy Partnership Programme between the two countries.

Nicolai Prytz, Ambassador of Denmark in Vietnam stated, "The initiative, which has been running for 10 years, aims to provide Vietnamese government agencies with the tools and knowledge to develop policies and plans for the energy transition, as well as support their implementation. The recently launched Green Strategic Partnership has opened an even greater opportunity for Vietnam and Denmark to further strengthen our long-term cooperation on the green transition and low-carbon economy in various strategic sectors."

The results and experiences from the Joint Energy Partnership Programme between Vietnam and Denmark will also be shared at the Vietnamese Pavilion, where directors of the Global Cooperation of the Danish Energy Agency will deliver presentations on the Danish green transition and key learnings from the Energy Partnership with Vietnam, as well as how Denmark tracks emissions and those of the Vietnamese energy sector based on the Energy Outlook Report.

Both Vietnam and Denmark have set ambitious emission reduction targets. At COP26, prime minister Chinh made a commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, which sent a clear signal to the world regarding Vietnams direction and determination towards low-carbon and sustainable development. Denmark aims to reduce its emissions by 70 per cent in 2030, 100 per cent by 2045, and 110 per cent  to become a net-negative emitter  by 2050.

Vietnam is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, with a high dependence on fossil fuels and increasingly energy-hungry industries with strong export orientations. Being one of the fastest growing economies in Asia and increasingly faced with demands for green energy from foreign investors seeking to establish production in the nation, Vietnam is an important partner in the global fight against climate change.

Vietnamese, Danish firms shake hands to develop offshore wind power Vietnams Doosan Vina and Denmarks rsted have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop the offshore wind power supply chain in Vietnam.

Green strategic partnership inked between Vietnam and Denmark Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen co-chaired a virtual ceremony on November 1, 2023, to jointly declare the establishment of a Green Strategic Partnership between the two governments.
Vietnamese citizens return home from Myanmar. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  The Vietnam Immigration Department under the Ministry of Public Security said on December 6 that it has coordinated with relevant agencies to receive 780 Vietnamese citizens returning home from Myanmar amid complicated developments of the situation in this country.

Accordingly, following directions of Deputy Minister of Public Security Sen. Lieut. Gen. Luong Tam Quang, the department has actively coordinated with the Consular Department under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Vietnamese Embassy in Myanmar to verify and issue passports serving citizen protection, and organise flights to bring them home.



It has worked with relevant units to verify information to support citizens as quickly as possible and issue passports for 1,068 people. As of December 6, a total of 780 people had been supported to return home on six charter flights.



The department added that it and relevant agencies will organise more charter flights this week to bring home Vietnamese citizens still stranded in Myanmar.
Kim Hong-il, nominated on Wednesday to head the Korea Communications Commission, is a former prosecutor who has built solid relationships with President Yoon Suk Yeol for a long time.

While in the prosecution, Kim led a number of high-profile investigations, including one into former President Lee Myung-bak's corruption allegations.

Yoon had once worked under Kim at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office and reportedly said Kim was one of his most trusted senior prosecutors.

Besides strong trust from Yoon, Kim is recognized for having organizational leadership and being fair and flawless in handling work.

Kim is also renowned for overcoming an unfortunate family environment during his childhood.

Born in 1956 in Yesan in the central province of South Chungcheong, Kim lost his mother while in elementary school and his father while in high school.

As the eldest son, he had to take care of his three orphaned younger siblings and postponed going to college for three years after high school graduation. Kim entered Chungnam National University's College of Law on a full scholarship in 1975 and became the university's first person to pass the state judicial exam in 1982.

Kim left the prosecution in 2013 and joined a law firm. In July this year, he took office as head of the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission. (Yonhap)
This week will see some representatives from agriculture and food company The PAN Group fly to the UAE to partake in COP28 sideline events, where state leaders will discuss solutions to mobilising finance for initiatives on coping with climate change.

Vietnamese enterprises use COP28 event to expand reach, illustration photo/ Source: freepik.com

The company signed an MoU with Standard Chartered Bank (Vietnam) on December 1, with the signing ceremony coming after the bank has studied and highly appreciated The PAN Groups effort in implementing a sustainable development strategy. According to the MoU, the bank will sponsor capital for green projects serving the production and business of agro- and aquacultural products.

We want to update assessments from the UN and the next steps and trends that have global influence. We will also share stories about sustainable agriculture and food development with international friends attending conferences within the COP28 framework, a group representative told VIR.

The PAN Group is among many in a Vietnamese delegation to join events at COP28, many of whom wish to share experience and learn lessons from other nations in sustainable development and green growth, with Vietnam currently major exporters of agricultural products, electronics, and garments and textiles, among others. This is also the first time that The PAN Group has participated in such an event.

In the framework of COP28, the Vietnamese delegation participating in technical negotiations, directed by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MoNRE), will chair a number of events and simultaneously participate in others to share experience, promote information and images of Vietnams response to climate change, and call for international support.

For example, the MoNRE on December 3 collaborated with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to organise a regional dialogue on facility greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting to drive nationally determined contributions (NDCs) and net-zero implementation and business engagement. They will also jointly organise another business dialogue for green transition and business engagement in net-zero and NDC implementation in Vietnam on December 6.

The events will see participation from a number of high-profile foreign-invested and domestic enterprises such as HSBC, Sovico Group, and Maritime Bank. Representatives of the three will engage in discussions on concrete pieces of evidence of transition to decarbonisation, project preparation, and the role of transition finance on December 6.

Many private corporations and state-owned enterprises have initially researched and gradually reduced fossil energy sources and developed plans to reduce GHG emissions. Some multinational corporations are willing to cooperate with government agencies to achieve the goal of achieving net-zero emissions, said Koji Fukuda, chief advisor at JICAs NDC Implementation Support.

The sideline events are being organised to identify businesses difficulties in the energy transition process, including accessing the necessary information, developing a roadmap to reduce GHG emissions, and finding solutions to balance finances in doing so, Fukuda added.

Meanwhile, Sovico Group is seeking more opportunities to expand its partner network at COP28 after its two members, Vietjet Air and HDBank, signed agreements with partners at COP26 in 2021. Also at the time, Affinity Investment Fund and HDBank reached a grant of $300 million for sustainable development and combating climate change.

Green finance development and promotion for Vietnam Vietnam is in the process of formulating policies to develop green finance markets. Nguyen Ba Hung, principal country economist from the Asian Development Bank in Vietnam, spoke to Thanh Tung about the opportunities and challenges of green finance development in the country, and policy recommendations.

Green finance must be unlocked to develop The banking sector has been urged to unlock viable green finance to attract a broader investor base to facilitate its green transition.
A former West High School art teacher was sentenced Tuesday to 20 years in prison for sexually abusing two students in 2020 and 2021.

Andrew White pleaded guilty and received the maximum sentence on eight second-degree felony charges related to the abuse. He will serve the sentences concurrently, for a total prison term of 20 years.

McLennan County District Attorney Josh Tetens said in a statement Tuesday he thinks the maximum punishment should be higher for abuse of a student by a teacher.

Although the defendant waived all appeals and pled to the maximum 20 year prison sentence in these cases, this horrific abuse should be a catalyst for legislative action, Tetens said. When those licensed to teach and protect our children instead violently abuse them, their punishment range should be enhanced.

Texas law requires that when several cases are grouped into a single plea deal all the sentences must run concurrently. With White's total prison sentence of 20 years, he will be eligible to seek parole after he has received credit for serving 10 years.

West Independent School District police arrested White in October 2021 after investigating reports of abuse.

White acknowledged to investigators he had sexually assaulted or exposed himself to the two students on multiple occasions in late 2020 and early 2021, including raping one, according to arrest affidavits.

He was indicted early last year on four counts of sexual assault of a child, two counts of indecency with a child by contact and two counts of inappropriate relationship between educator and student.

One of the students filed a federal lawsuit against West ISD in March, alleging the district displayed deliberate indifference toward the student and failed to investigate or discipline White, allowing the abuse to continue for months.

According to Whites arrest affidavit, the West High School principal reported the names of possible victims to West ISD police the day before Whites arrest.

In a statement shortly after the arrest, the district said it started an investigation immediately after officials learned of inappropriate communication on social media between a teacher and a student.
'A Special Starry Night'

The Heart of Texas Autism Network, The Arc of McLennan County and the Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities will host "A Special Starry Night" for all members of the disability community at 6 p.m. Saturday at Baylor University's Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center, 905 S. University Parks Drive.

"A Special Starry Night" will offer a fun setting for families in the disability community to come together and celebrate the holiday season in a way applicable to people with disabilities. The event will include food, vendors and dancing the night away.

Admission is free. To sign up, go to eventbrite.com and search for A Special Starry Night.

For more information, call 254-716-9886 or email jennifer.johannsen@hotan254.org.

Floyd Casey input

A community input meeting and update on the park planned next to the redevelopment of the former Floyd Casey Stadium site will run from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the South Waco Community Center, 2815 Speight Ave.

Attendees will have the opportunity to weigh in on potential park options and elements based on feedback collected from a public survey and previous public meeting.

MCC holiday closures

McLennan Community College will be closed Saturday through Jan. 1 for the winter holidays. However, representatives from Advising & Career Services and Highlander Central will be available from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Dec. 14 to assist students attending the Winter Minimester and to help new and returning students with registration for the spring 2024 semester. Registration is open through 11:59 p.m. Jan. 5. Classes begin Jan. 8.

The MCC Bookstore, along with the Tarleton State University and Texas Tech University administrative offices, and Waco Family Medicine-MCC clinic will be open on designated dates during the break. For a complete list, go to www.mclennan.edu/dates/winter-holidays.html.

Bellmead Christmas parade

The city of Bellmead and the Knights of Columbus are sponsoring the communitys 73rd annual Christmas parade and tree lighting, which will start at 6 p.m. Thursday.

The tree lighting will take place at 6 outside the Municipal Court building, 3015 Bellmead Drive. The parade will follow at 7, starting at Loop 340 and Highway 84 and moving west down Bellmead Drive. To date, 87 entries will be included in the parade.

Letters to Santa can be dropped off either at City Hall or the Christmas tree for delivery to the North Pole.

Free hot chocolate and cookies will be served after the tree lighting.

For more information, call 254-749-4759.

Taco, tamale competition

The Hispanic Leaders Network 2023 Las Posadas and Taco y Tamale Competition will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the South Waco Community Center, 2815 Speight Ave.

In addition to the competition, the event will feature a floating mercado, crafts, family activities, food, music and dancing.

Admission is free, but participants are asked to reserve a spot at eventbrite.com.

Sensory Santa Celebration

Central Christian Church, 4901 Lake Shore Drive, will host a Sensory Santa Celebration from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday.

The event will include crafts, games, food trucks, a bounce house for all abilities, treats, Angel Paws dogs, face painting, Mrs. Claus Secret Shop, train rides and a photo opportunity with Santa in an accessible environment.

Various community organizations will be there to help Santa with the event. Santa will make his appearance at 2:15 p.m. There is no charge for the event, but registration is requested so Santas helpers will be sure to have enough goodies on hand. To register, go to tinyurl.com/sensorysanta23.

Red Diamond Affair

The Waco Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. will celebrate its 80th anniversary with the Red Diamond Affair: Celebrating 80 Years of Service in the Greater Waco Community. The event will be held from 7 to 11:30 p.m. Saturday in the Waco Convention Center ballroom, 100 Washington Ave.

For ticket information, email WacoAlumnae1943@wacoalumnae.org.

Brunch with Santa

The Lee Lockwood Library and Museum, 2801 W. Waco Drive, will host Shopping and brunch with Santa from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday.

Tickets cost $10 for families, $5 for individuals.

There will be a fun variety of local vendors, cookie decorating as long as supplies last, and pictures with Santa. Tickets can be bought at the door or by calling 254-753-5166.

Dr Pepper Christmas

The Dr Pepper Museum, 300 S. Fifth St., will hold its Christmas celebration from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday.

There will be free photos with Santa, hot Dr Pepper, holiday story time, holiday Make-a-Soda and Taste-a-Soda.

The event is free, except for selected ticketed experiences.

Candlelight tours

Historic Waco will offer candlelight tours of McCulloch House, 407 Columbus Ave.; Earle-Napier-Kinnard House, 814 S. Fourth St.; and East Terrace, 100 Mill St.; from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday.

Cost is $20 per person, $18 for Historic Waco members. Tickets are available at historicwaco.org.

Proceeds benefit the Humane Society, Mission Waco and Friends for Life.

Read more about the tours in Access Waco, Page B10.

Ceremony postponed

The groundbreaking ceremony for Fire Station No. 15 originally scheduled for Thursday has been postponed to Jan. 9 due to logistics.

The event will mark the beginning of construction of a new city of Waco fire station at 10905 Panther Way.
Waco Family Medicine has entered an agreement with Ascension Providence to take over patient care responsibilities of Ascensions Midwifery Clinic in Waco and Ascensions Hillsboro Clinic, the organizations announced Tuesday.

Waco Family Medicine will take over ownership of the clinics and start managing them Jan. 1, 2024. Both clinics will remain in their current locations, and all current services will continue to be offered, with additional services planned in the next few months, according to a Waco Family Medicine press release. The Midwifery Clinic, located at the Ascension Providence Hospital, will also continue to partner with the hospital for infant deliveries and with Ascension OB-GYNs, according to Waco Family Medicines website.

Waco Family Medicines website says most of the health care providers will remain with the clinics, though Sarah Seelye, a family nurse practitioner with the Hillsboro Clinic, and Shaunteel Chalk, a certified nurse midwife with the Midwifery Clinic, will not be joining Waco Family Medicine.

Three of the four current midwives as well as the support staff currently employed at the clinic will be joining Waco Family Medicine, said Fernando Arroyo, chief people officer at Waco Family Medicine. He said Waco Family Medicine will also look to add a fourth midwife to the practice soon.

Arroyo said the partnership between Waco Family Medicine and Providence goes all the way back to 1969, when Waco Family Medicine was founded in the basement offices of the Providence Health Center. In addition to the new partnership on the Midwifery Clinic, the two organizations partner in their residency programs to place medical students in local hospitals, Arroyo said.

Were really excited about that ongoing partnership, that ongoing agreement, Arroyo said. Also working on uninterrupted health care services for the community is super important to us both. The collaboration also signifies a joint dedication for good health care in Central Texas.

The press release says the transition signifies a commitment to continued excellence in health care for the Central Texas region. Waco Family Medicine CEO Dr. Jackson Griggs said in the press release he is excited to continue the great care provided by Ascension.

We share in their commitment to provide care for all and strengthen community health outcomes, Griggs said in the press release. We look forward to a seamless continuation of patient services for our community members.

In an interview, Griggs said Waco Family Medicine and Ascension have a close working relationship and regularly have conversations about how to optimize care in the Waco area, with the acquisition of the Midwifery Clinic being a natural progression of those conversations.

Were eager to care for this population, Griggs said. We provide for a large number of pregnant women. We saw this as an opportunity to take on excellent professionals to expand that kind of work.

The Midwifery Clinic, opened in 2019, has a team of licensed health care providers who specialize in providing primary care to women during their reproductive lifespan, before, during and after pregnancy, Arroyo said. This includes prenatal and postpartum care, gynecological services, nutrition counseling and birthing plans and services, Arroyo said.

Waco Family Medicines website also says most of the insurance providers accepted by Ascension are already accepted by Waco Family Medicine, and the organization is in the process of contracting with the two insurance plans not already accepted, Ambetter and TriWest.

As of Jan. 1, the Midwifery Clinics phone number will change to 254-313-1500, while the Hillsboro Clinics number will remain the same, 254-582-7481, Waco Family Medicines website says.

The partnership comes after the closure of several Waco-area Ascension Providence clinics. In September, Ascensions Hearing Center closed, which was followed by the Oct. 31 closure of Ascensions ear, nose and throat clinic, located in the same building. An Ascension Providence Family Medicine clinic in Lacy Lakeview also closed in October. Ascension officials at the time declined comment explaining the closure of the clinics.

Ascension Providence also announced in October that the DePaul Center, a long-running mental health clinic, would close by Dec. 1, with outpatient services ceasing by the end of the year. In a press release on the DePaul closure, Ascension Providence President Philip Patterson said the center was not adaptable to renovation and expansion in a way consistent with evolving industry standards and community needs.

Early this year, the Tribune-Herald reported Ascension was eliminating jobs around the state, including in the Waco area. Additionally, Ascension reported a net loss of almost $2.7 billion in the fiscal year 2023, which ended in June, compared to a net loss of more than $1.8 billion a year prior.
WATERLOO  A Waterloo man who dodged a murder charge in a 2020 shooting has now been found guilty of trying to kill someone else in another incident.

Jurors deliberated Monday and most of Tuesday before finding Robert Lee Williams Jr. guilty of attempted murder, willful injury causing serious injury, felon in possession of a firearm and prohibited person in possession of a firearm.

Williams, 34, stood silently as the court announced the verdict.

Attempted murder is punishable by up to 25 years in prison, and willful injury carries a 10-year maximum. The firearm charges have a five-year maximum.

Sentencing will be at a later date.

The victim, Tony Campbell, 39, didnt attend the verdict. He is currently serving time in a federal prison for a gun charge stemming from the incident.

Prosecutors said Williams had suspected Campbell of harming his brother months earlier. On July 31, 2020, he allegedly hung out with Campbell, drinking and doing cocaine, before pulling out a pistol and shooting him once in the face next to an alley behind his sisters home on West Sixth Street.

Campbell fled, doubled back and fired his own gun and then went to a nearby liquor store to wait for an ambulance.

Williams later confessed to police, saying he tried to kill Campbell because of what happened to his brother.

But at trial, Williams claimed self-defense, telling jurors that he shot because Campbell was about to pull a gun on him.

The shooting was the first in a series of gun-related incidents involving Williams in a span of weeks.

On Aug. 2, 2020, he was involved in a shootout on Argyle Street where two people were injured. Trial in pending in that case.

Then on Aug. 15, 2020, prosecutors said Williams and his brother went to a Waterloo home in an attempt to rob a drug dealer. They then diverted to a group of people working on a motorcycle in a garage across the street.

Police said Williams pulled out a pistol in an apparent attempt to rob them. One of the men, 49-year-old Vincent Hemenway, grabbed for the weapon and was fatally shot.

As with the face shooting, Williams told jurors the garage shooting was self-defense during a separate trial. Jurors found him guilty of a lesser charge of voluntary manslaughter. He was sentenced to up to 10 years in prison.

Photos: Homicide, Adrian St. Aug. 15, 2020 081820jr-adrian-homicide-1 081620jr-homicide-search-1 081620jr-homicide-search-2 081620jr-homicide-search-3 081620jr-homicide-search-4 040622jr-robbery-trial-2 040622jr-robbery-trial-1 040622jr-robbery-trial-3 040622jr-robbery-trial-4 040622jr-robbery-trial-5 040722jr-robbery-trial-1 040722jr-robbery-trial-3 040822jr-robbery-verdict-1 042023jr-williams-trial-1 042023jr-williams-trial-4 042023jr-williams-trial-3 042023jr-williams-trial-2 042023jr-williams-trial-5 041923jr-williams-trial-2 041923jr-williams-trial-1 041923jr-williams-trial-3 041923jr-williams-trial-4 042123jr-williams-trial-4 042123jr-williams-trial-1 042123jr-williams-trial-2 042123jr-williams-trial-3 042423jr-williams-trial-1 042423jr-williams-trial-2 Robert Lee Williams Jr. verdict 062823jr-williams-sentencing-1 062823jr-williams-sentencing-3 062823jr-williams-sentencing-2
TRIPOLI  A Tripoli man has been sentenced to prison for two sexual attacks in 2022.

Tracy Vern Buchholz, 52, pleaded to two counts of assault with intent to commit sexual abuse in Bremer County District Court in August, changing his mind as his jury trial was underway.

On Monday, Buchholz was sentenced to four years behind bars, which will be followed by 10 years of parole plus victim restitution.

He will also have to register as a sex offender following prison and submit a DNA sample.

The cases were investigated by Detective Jason Ellison of the Bremer County Sheriffs Office and prosecuted by First Assistant County Attorney David Thompson. Both cases involved attacking women in broad daylight in public areas.

According to court records, he entered a rural Bremer County business Feb. 8, 2022, and groped a female employee against her will while she was working alone.

Then on April 25, 2022, he attacked a female acquaintance at the Sweet Marsh wildlife area northeast of Tripoli.
WATERLOO  Some Fred Becker Elementary School students will have a cozier winter thanks to a visit Tuesday from the Koats 4 Kids campaign.

Julie and Bruce Ehlers started Koats 4 Kids in 2012, providing 180 coats to students from low-income families. Over the last 11 years the organization has given nearly 21,000 winter coats, boots and snow pants to students at 34 schools in Cedar Falls, Evansdale, Gilbertville, Hudson and Waterloo.

This year the goal is to help at least 1,800 children from preschool to high school across Black Hawk County. At Becker Elementary, cafeteria tables were piled with coats and snow pants for students to choose from and try on.

First-grader Mya Johnson, 6, was excited about the coat choices.

My favorite color is pink but I also like blue and purple, said Mya, who was able to choose a galaxy print style puffer coat and matching pink boots. I love snow and cant wait to make snow angels.

Surveying the students picking out items, family support worker Teanna Smart stressed just how important programs like Koats 4 Kids are for children within the Cedar Valley.

The gift of having a warm coat is like Christmas for these kids. They are able to play outside with their friends without having to worry about staying on the blacktop, she said.

Lea Elizondr, 9, shared just how exciting it was to get a new pink coat.

I felt like I was shopping. I had so much stuff in my hands, she said. Sometimes my family and I go on walks and I cant wait to take a walk in my new coat!

Leas classmate, 8-year-old Khilee Harris, also was happy with her new items.

Getting new stuff today was fun, she said. The coat I had before I didnt like because it was too big, bulky, and I didnt like the way it looked on me.

Khilee was very proud of her shiny pink and silver coat that she was able to pick out. I cant wait to go out for recess, she said.

Donations are accepted year-round to make the winter gear purchases possible.

A gift of $30 allows a child to choose a new, warm coat along with a hat, gloves, and a scarf. A gift of $50 covers a new coat, hat, gloves, scarf and a pair of boots. For $70, a child gets everything needed to play in the snow: coat, boots, snow pants, hat, gloves and scarf.

Contributions can be sent to the Waterloo Community Foundation, P.O. Box 1253, Waterloo, IA 50704 or go online to WlooCommunityFoundation.org under the Give Now tab. Learn more about the organization online at facebook.com/Koats4Kids.Waterloo.
A Davenport Republican running for Congress and several of his supporters asked former President Donald Trump for his endorsement during a campaign stop at Front Street Pub and Eatery in Davenport on Tuesday.

David Pautsch, a religious and conservative minister from Davenport, is challenging the districts current representative, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, from the partys right flank.

Following the filming of a Fox News town hall with pundit Sean Hannity, Trump stopped at the downtown Davenport pub and restaurant, and spoke with a few dozen supporters, including Pautsch.

At Front Street, Trump shook Pautschs hand and the two spoke for several minutes. Trump floated endorsing in the race, but stopped short of pledging his support for Pautsch.

One person from the crowd responded, please, we need your endorsement.

Trump turned to Pautsch, who told the former president: I want to help you save this country.

Trump asked Pautsch if anyone else was running for the seat. Democrat Christina Bohannan has also announced shes making a second bid for the spot.

Trump took several pictures with Pautsch, and turned and asked the crowd: Are you sure? Hes good?

Asked by a reporter if he intended to endorse Pautsch, Trump said, That would be a big endorsement. Let me tell you, Davids a very good man.

Trump did not endorse Miller-Meeks in her 2022 reelection bid. Miller-Meeks was one of 35 House Republicans to vote in support of establishing a commission to investigate Jan. 6, 2021, attempts to stop Congress from certifying President Joe Bidens 2020 election victory over Trump. That bipartisan legislation later failed.

Pautsch organizes an annual Quad-City Prayer Breakfast, which has recently featured Kari Lake and Mike Lindell. Both have questioned the results of the 2020 election. Pautsch believes marriage should be between a man and a woman, and criticizes Miller-Meeks on her support for the Respect for Marriage Act, which requires the federal government to recognize marriages regardless of the sex or race of the couple. The bill included a provision to clarify that religious organizations are not required to perform same-sex marriages.

At Front Street, Trump autographed, shook hands, and took pictures with the people there.

Davenport artist Tom Cavallo brought a larger-than-life painting of Trump in founding father-esque curls. Cavallo said he released the work on Jan. 6, 2021.

Maria Baldwin, whose husband Tim owns Front Street, said it was surreal to have Trump come to their pub.

Im having a bit of an out of body experience. Meeting the president of the United States is very thrilling, Baldwin said.

It was short notice. Baldwin said secret service reached out to them Monday to let them know the president may stop by.

Baldwin is an Illinois resident, but said the president will definitely have our support.

I think he represents the working class, middle class, he has all of us Americans in mind, she said.

The stop is an example of retail politicking that Trump did not frequently do in the lead-up to the 2016 caucuses.

Trump does not plan to attend a GOP debate on Wednesday. He said, he wasnt disappointed not to be debating.

I think not a lot of people will be watching, Trump said. Theyre about 70 points down.

According to a rolling average by Real Clear Politics, Trump leads other GOP challengers by 29 percentage points in Iowa. Nationally, Trump leads by 48 percentage points, according to Real Clear Politics.
WATERLOO  While lining up his pool cue to shoot the 8-ball on his last round of pool with friends, Steve Simon found out he would be the next at-large member of the City Council.

Simon received 60.43%, or 2,553 votes, in Tuesdays election, according to unofficial results from the Black Hawk County Auditor. His opponent, current Ward 2 Councilmember Jonathan Grieder received 39.5%, or 1,669 votes. There were three write-in votes.

Playing pool with friends, and later celebrating at The Other Place on Ridgeway Avenue with his campaign staff, Simon said his large group of friends is what made his campaign successful.

I think thats an asset thats going to help me on the City Council because I have friends in all places, Simon said in a phone call after the polls closed. Im going to utilize my friends and the knowledge they have and Im going to capitalize on that.

During the regular election in November, Simon received 2,923 votes  about 45% of ballots cast. Grieder won 2,194, or almost 34%. The other two candidates, Corey Holmes and Ashley Chappell, received 13% and 8% of ballots, respectively. Since none of the candidates received more than 50% of the votes, a runoff election was required.

Door-knocking and phone calls didnt stop for either candidates campaign team after the November election. Simon said he ran on a platform of uniting Waterloo and that Grieder had an agenda.

I do not have an agenda and my only agenda is to do what people want to do, he said. The good thing about me is Ill work with the rest of the City Council (to see) what the needs of the city are.

On Simons campaign website, he calls himself a commonsense voice for Waterloo and lists four main issues he would work on. These include fiscal responsibility by scrutinizing development deals and tax-increment financing districts, supporting law enforcement and first responders, staying away from national divisive politics and keeping family first, and attracting new businesses.

At a candidate forum last week, Grieder said the use of the term divisive politics and family first alluded to the conversion therapy ban Grieder brought forward earlier this year, which ultimately was repealed. In a previous Courier story, Simon said that Grieder couldnt read his mind on what the terms meant to him.

Simon said family, especially children, will be a main focus while he is on the council. This passion came from the recent birth of a grandchild as well as being the father of three children.

Im going to work with kids and try to change the image of Waterloo, he said. (To) make it more accessible for people to live here and want to stay here, and keep educated and talented young diverse kids here.

Simon, 57, grew up in Waterloo and currently lives in Ward 2. Hes been in dentistry for 37 years and is one of the founders of Eclipse Dental at 3308 Kimball Avenue.

To the people, the other 40% (who didnt vote for me), Im gonna be as good of a representative for them as if my opponent wouldve won, Simon said. We won. The city of Waterloo won.

Jonathan Grieder could not be reached for comment but sent an emailed statement that read: I am humbled and honored by all those who supported and voted for me. I want to congratulate Mr. Simon on his win.

This campaign was always about a shared vision for Waterloo and I remain optimistic that Waterloo will continue to move towards a brighter future for all. I will continue to advocate for the issues that I and so many know must be our focus if we are to become the Waterloo we wish to be.

Grieders current position ends Dec. 31. Current at-large Councilmember Dave Boesen ran for the Ward 2 seat unopposed. In the general election, Mayor Quentin Hart won his fifth term and Belinda Creighton-Smith was reelected to serve Ward 4.

All four will be sworn in at the beginning of January.

The city of Raymond also held a runoff election. Scott Cronbaugh won against Tom McGowan, who died in October.

Cronbaugh received 83.87%, or 26 votes, and McGowan received 12.9%, or four votes. There was one write-in vote. McGowan was on the ballot because state law has no provision for removing the name of someone who died when the election goes to a runoff.

The 25 Waterloo precincts, the one Raymond precinct, and absentee ballots in both contests put the voter turnout in the two cities at 4,257 or 10.26%.

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In the wake of last month's elections, the bulk of media coverage and analysis has understandably focused on whether Democrats or Republicans have more momentum going into 2024. But Election Day 2023 gave momentum to the fastest-growing nonpartisan voting reform in the nation: ranked choice voting.

On Nov. 7, 11 cities across six states used ranked choice voting in their elections, including Boulder, Colorado, which used it for the first time to elect its mayor. Ten more cities -- including Salt Lake City -- were using ranked choice voting when Utah held its elections Nov. 21.

And more voters want to join them. Three cities in Michigan voted to adopt ranked choice voting for the first time, while Minnetonka, Minnesota, and Easthampton, Massachusetts, voted to keep or expand it. With these victories, ranked choice voting has won 27 city ballot measures in a row.

This is a massive change from just seven years ago, when only 10 cities used ranked choice voting. Now, 51 places use it, home to roughly 16 million Americans. That includes two states (Alaska and Maine) and 49 counties and states, with more states and cities -- including Oregon, Nevada and the District of Columbia -- slated to vote on its use next year.

Poll after poll tells us that Americans see our current politics as toxic, divisive and unresponsive to voters. An Associated Press poll this summer suggested just one in 10 Americans feel our democracy is working very well. A Pew Research study this September found a staggering 63% have little to no confidence in the future of the U.S. political system.

Compare that with ranked choice voting, which tackles these problems and is popular everywhere its used.

Heres how it works: In races with more than two candidates, voters are asked to rank the candidates in order of preference -- first choice, second choice and so on. If no candidate earns more than 50% of first choices, an instant runoff occurs. If your favorite candidate is eliminated, your vote counts for your highest-ranked choice who has a chance to win.

Ranked choice voting can change our politics by giving voters better choices, better representation and more positive campaigns. Voters are able to express their true preferences, without playing spoiler or wasting their vote on a candidate who cant win. At the same time, candidates are forced to appeal to a broad coalition of voters -- even those who rank another candidate No. 1 -- to build the majority they need to win.

The movement for ranked choice voting is both bottom-up and top-down. Citizens and local legislators are adopting this new system city by city, showing that change is possible amid gridlock. At the same time, efforts to encourage ranked choice voting are moving in Congress. Last month, U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., introduced the Voter Choice Act, which would provide funding for cities, counties and states to implement ranked choice voting.

The latest elections didnt just show that voters want ranked choice voting. It also demonstrated how this process of counting votes can deliver better campaigns and more representative and responsive governance.

Look at Boulder's and Portland, Maines hotly contested mayoral elections. In Portland, two losing candidates swiftly congratulated the winner with each calling the race amazing." The mayor-elect praised a civil campaign thats what this city deserves. In Boulders first use of ranked choice voting, the two leading candidates drew clear policy distinctions, but the losing candidate quickly conceded and said that the citys in great shape under his opponents leadership.

Its not just nicer campaigns. By empowering start-up candidates to run instead of waiting their turn, ranked choice voting has led to more representative bodies of leaders. St. Paul, Minnesota, elected its first all-female city council last month. All are under 40 and six out of seven are people of color. Cities like New York and Las Cruces, New Mexico, have elected their first majority- or all-female councils using ranked choice voting; Minneapolis and Salt Lake City have elected their first majority people-of-color councils.

Of course, ranked choice voting doesnt favor one demographic or ideological group. But by lowering the barrier to entry for underrepresented candidates, it gets us closer to elected bodies that look like the people they serve.

Just when most Americans feel that our political system isnt working as it should, ranked choice voting is offering glimmers of hope. Thats a 2023 election story we can all be excited about -- and that sets the stage for even more wins for ranked choice voting in 2024.
Local governments race to host immigration agency

By Lee Hyo-jin

Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon warned, Wednesday, that Korea could disappear from the map unless the nation implements effective immigration policies, and called for parliamentary support for his ministry's push to launch a new government agency handling immigration affairs.

"When it comes to immigration policies, we have passed the stage of deliberating whether to implement them or not. Because if we don't, we cannot escape the fate of extinction due to the demographic catastrophe," Han said during a meeting with lawmakers of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) at the National Assembly in Seoul.

However, Han made it clear that the envisioned launch of the immigration agency does not mean that the government will carry out entirely foreigner-friendly measures. Rather, the administration seeks to take a selective stance in accepting foreign nationals and establish what he called a "stronger grip" on those who are overstaying their visas.

"The policies we aim to pursue are not about simply accepting a large number of foreigners. Instead, we will accept only foreign nationals who meet our needs based on thorough assessments, while strengthening crackdowns on undocumented migrants," he said.

The minister stressed that the purpose of the immigration agency is to realize the practical interests of the nation and its people, and not to introduce diverse cultures based on humanitarian purposes.

During the meeting, Han provided details of the ministry's plan to establish the immigration agency, asking for parliamentary support. Cooperation between the justice ministry and PPP lawmakers will involve proposing related bills, as the creation of a new government entity requires revisions to the Government Organization Act.

Meanwhile, local governments are vying to attract the immigration agency.

Several local municipalities are competing to attract the immigration agency, whose establishment could help the surrounding area address issues such as a declining birthrate and a shortage of workers.

Among others, Ansan City in Gyeonggi Province has shown keen interest.

Ansan is home to over 94,000 residents of foreign nationality who come from a total of 118 countries, accounting for 13 percent of the city's 729,000 population. With the highest foreign population density in Korea, the industrial city has positioned itself as an ideal location for the immigration agency.

"Our infrastructure and experience in foreigner-related policies will be a big asset in operating the immigration agency. Establishing the agency here will be a pivotal move in presenting a future for the successful social integration of residents from immigrant backgrounds," Ansan Mayor Lee Min-geun said during a meeting with justice minister on Nov. 27.

In response, the minister said, "I am well aware that Ansan is taking a leading role in migrant-related policies, as well as the city's efforts to attract the immigration agency. We should work together to find ways to address the nation's pending issues such as the low birthrate."

Gimpo City, west of Seoul in Gyeonggi Province, is also promoting itself as the best candidate considering its proximity and accessibility to Incheon and Gimpo international airports. It said the immigration agency, if located in Gimpo, would benefit some 150,000 foreign residents living across nearby cities such as Goyang, Bucheon, Paju and Seoul's Gangseo District.

In the southeastern port city of Busan, a civic committee led by scholars and religious leaders was formed in October to help promote their willingness to host the immigration agency, although there has yet to be an official announcement by Busan City declaring its interest.

Discussions on the possible launch of a new immigration agency have gained momentum here since President Yoon Suk Yeol took office in May 2022, as it had been one of his campaign pledges. The justice minister has also been stressing the importance of improved immigration policies for the benefit of the nation.

The need for Korea to establish a separate government agency dedicated to migrant policies has long been stressed by many immigration experts and policymakers, who believe that the absence of a control tower to draft an overall policy framework is the main reason the country is failing to implement coherent immigration policies.

Currently, Korea's immigration policy is handled separately by different branches of the government.

The Ministry of Employment and Labor covers migrant workers. The Ministry of Gender Equality and Family creates policies for marriage migrants and their children, while the Ministry of Education handles international students and the Ministry of Justice covers visa statuses and other administrative affairs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs deals with ethnic Koreans who are overseas.
 Comment from the Russian Embassy in the USA

We drew attention to an article in Foreign Affairs with statements by American retirees and military experts about the need for the Kyiv regime to destroy the Crimean Bridge.

 The publication, concocted by local pseudo-analysts, including the former commander of US Ground Forces in Europe B. Hodges, is striking in its madness and cynicism.

 Insistent advice to Kiev to conduct massive shelling of Russian civilian infrastructure using ATACMS ammunition transferred from Washington once again confirms the Russophobes total misunderstanding of the catastrophic risks of further dragging the United States into the conflict. At the same time, they are actively pushing Berlin to provide Ukrainian neo-Nazis with long-range Taurus missiles , which, they say, are even better suited for achieving this goal.

It is obvious that local hawks are seeking to revive the fading interest of American citizens in events in Eastern Europe . Especially considering the failed counter-offensive of the Ukrainian Armed Forces , which was carefully prepared by Western curators.

 We emphasize that freedom of speech cannot serve as an excuse for terrorism and murder of people. Foreign Affairs magazine is ruining its reputation by giving such odious characters a platform . We expect explanations from the editors to what extent the published material reflects the position of this once authoritative publication, as well as condemnation of terrorist calls by the American authorities.
1. It is prohibited to use mobile phones during lessons (except in emergency cases). We discussed this issue with you  parents and teachers asked to support this norm. The decision taken will improve the quality of education for our children.

2. Labor lessons have been returned to schools as a compulsory subject.

Labor education is an integral part of the educational process.

If you instill hard work in your child from childhood, then everything will be fine in the future.

WtR
Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (5 November 2023)

The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation.

In Kupyansk direction, units of the Zapad Group of Forces supported by aviation, artillery, and heavy flamethrower systems repelled three attacks of assault groups of AFU 43rd mechanised, 57th mechanised infantry brigades near Ivanovka and Sinkovka (Kharkov region).

The Zapad Group of Forces inflicted fire damage on clusters of AFU manpower and hardware close to Peschanoye, Berestovoye (Kharkov region), and Nevskoye (Lugansk Peoples Republic).

Up to 35 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system have been eliminated.

In Krasny Liman direction, the Tsentr Group of Forces units, aviation, and artillery inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of AFU 63rd, 66th mechanised brigades near Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk Peoples Republic), and Serebryansky forestry.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 55 Ukrainian troops and two motor vehicles.

In Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces supported by aviation and artillery repelled four enemy attacks and inflicted fire damage on AFU manpower and hardware near Bogdanovka, Kleshcheyevka, and Toretsk (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

The enemy has lost up to 270 Ukrainian personnel, as well as two armoured fighting vehicles.

In South Donetsk direction, units of the Vostok Group of Forces, helicopters, and artillery inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 79th Air Assault Brigade, as well as 102nd, 128th territorial defence brigades near Novomikhailovka, Urozhaynoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic), and Levadnoye (Zaporozhye region).

During the day, a total of 245 Ukrainian troops, four armoured fighting vehicles, four motor vehicles, one Msta-B howitzer, and one D-30 howitzer have been neutralised.

In Zaporozhye direction, units of the Russian Group of Forces repelled one attack by the AFU 117th Mechanised Brigades assault group close to Uspenovka (Zaporozhye region).

In addition, air strikes and artillery fire struck the personnel and hardware of the 65th Mechanised Brigade close to Rabotino amd Dorozhnyanka (Zaporozhye region).

The enemy losses were up to 50 servicemen, four armoured fighting vehicles, four pickup trucks, and one Giatsing-B gun.

In Kherson direction, as a result of the Russian Group of Forces actions, artillery, and aviation, the AFU losses amounted to up to 40 Ukrainian troops, five motor vehicles, one M-109 Paladin self-propelled artillery system, one U.S.-made M777 artillery system, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system.

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 103 areas during the day.

Air defence units shot down two MiG-29 aircraft of the Ukrainian Air Force near Shirokoye (Dnepropetrovsk region) and Bereznigovatoye (Nikolayev region), as well as one Mi-8 helicopter close to Peschanoye (Kharkov region).

In addition, 74 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were intercepted near Sergeyevka (Lugansk Peoples Republic), Gorlovka, Spornoye, Yalynskoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic), Chubarevka, Tokmak (Zaporozhye region), Novaya Kakhovka, Ivanovka (Kherson region), as well as one HARM anti-radiation missile.

In total, 547 airplanes and 257 helicopters, 9,465 unmanned aerial vehicles, 442 air defence missile systems, 13,807 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,187 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 7,234 field artillery guns and mortars, as well as 15,939 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.

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WtR
A judge ordered a La Crosse man held on $500,000 cash bail Wednesday on a first-degree homicide charge related to a stabbing Tuesday night near downtown La Crosse.

Bryant Q. Smith made an initial appearance in court Wednesday after police said the 50-year-old fatally stabbed another person.

According to the La Crosse Police Department, officers responded Tuesday around 9:30 p.m. to the 400 block of South Sixth Street and discovered a victim with stab wounds. The victim died from the injuries a short time later.

Police identified Smith as a suspect and arrested him a short time later. The police department described the homicide as an isolated incident that doesnt represent a threat to the community.

Police havent released the name of the victim.

Wisconsin court records show Smith has a pair of misdemeanor battery convictions from 2016 and 2022 but no felony convictions.

Police say the case remains under investigation. Anyone with information on the case is asked to call the La Crosse Police Department at 608-782-7575.

Tips can anonymously be provided to the La Crosse Area Crime Stoppers at 608-7849 TIPS (8477) or online at lacrossecrimestoppers.com.
Commissioners from three Minnesota state agencies announced a plan last week to address nitrate contamination in groundwater in southeast Minnesota and to help those whose drinking water may be contaminated.

The plan comes in response to a request from United States Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 administrator Debra Shore in a letter Nov. 3 for state agencies to help protect groundwater in the states karst region, including Winona, Houston, Dodge, Fillmore, Goodhue, Mower, Olmsted and Wabasha counties.

The letter last month from the EPA stated an estimated 9,218 residents in the region may be or have been in the past at risk of potentially consuming water that had nitrate levels above the maximum level allowed, based on data collected during well testing from 2014 to 2019.

The EPA explained in the letter that the Minnesota Department of Agriculture had detected nitrate levels exceeding the maximum level allowed safely in 12% of 1,058 private wells tested in the region.

The letter states several public water systems in the region were impacted by nitrate that exceeded the maximum levels, which require additional treatments or possibly deeper wells.

The eight Minnesota counties in the region, including Winona and Houston, are sensitive to groundwater contamination because of karst, a porous geography of springs, sinkholes and shallow bedrock.

Commissioners Brooke Cunningham of the Minnesota Department of Health, Thom Petersen of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and Katrina Kessler of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency wrote in a letter to the EPA on Friday, We agree that nitrate in drinking water is an acute health risk for some Minnesotans."

The majority of Minnesotans get their drinking water from community drinking water systems, and the news on this front is encouraging. Our implementation of the Safe Drinking Water Act with regard to public water systems focuses on going beyond compliance through education and technical support to prevent nitrate concentrations from reaching the level of a violation, the commissioners wrote. In cases where this was not possible, the system notifies the public, and the MDH works with the system to return to compliance. However, there is ongoing concern about the 1.1 million Minnesotans who get their drinking water from private wells."

The commissioners found few statutory protections for Minnesota's residents who use private wells.

Part of the state agencies' plan to address nitrate contamination in the region includes notifying residents who may be impacted by nitrate contaminations and provide guidance about water treatment options.

The state agencies will also provide bottled water vouchers to people who are considered vulnerable, like those who are pregnant and who are under 1 year old.

An education and outreach program is being created by the agencies and local government partners to educate the public about nitrate contamination through social media, news releases, paid advertisements and brochures.

Through a Clean Water Fund pilot grant to Olmsted County Soil and Water Conservation District, a 'Tap-in' collaborative of SWCDs and local public health agencies was developed in six of the eight counties included in the petition. We will work through this established local network to include the additional counties and strengthen their outreach and testing activities, the commissioners stated.

A public health intervention is in the works, also.

"The details of the public health intervention are currently in discussion with the agencies, the Tap-in Collaborative and other local partners. We expect to have a complete plan by Jan. 15, 2024. The plan will include strategies to address the seven components outlined in your letter: coordination of government partners; identification of private wells; free testing, alternate water and remediation where needed; robust communication and outreach; public access to data and plan progress; and quarterly reporting to U.S. EPA Region 5," the commissioners wrote to the EPA.

Additionally, the commissioners wrote: As EPA notes, Minnesota needs a long-term solution for reducing nitrate in our surface water and groundwater. We do have important elements of this solution in place.

A few examples of work already being done in the state included in the letter were comprehensive watershed management plans, Minnesotas Nutrient Reduction Strategy, Nitrogen Fertilizer Management Plan, feedlot and wastewater permitting programs and the Groundwater Protection Rule.

While all these elements are important pieces of the long-term solution, we recognize the need to continue to advance nitrate reduction work," the commissioners wrote. "The broad patterns of nitrate that we see in our surface waters and groundwater are caused by a combination of point and nonpoint source pollution. Reducing nitrate contamination of drinking water wells will require overlapping approaches that include both regulatory and voluntary actions that are science-based and will reduce all sources of nitrogen to our waters, and work at both the state and local levels. This is long-term, adaptive management work that is already in progress and will operate while more immediate assistance is provided to southeastern Minnesota residents.

The commissioners said more financial resources will be needed to reduce nitrate in groundwater in the future and to provide safe drinking water to people who need it currently.
Unlike many other municipalities in Wisconsin, Baraboo has opted out of class action lawsuits with two companies blamed for much of the forever chemicals in Wisconsin waterways and groundwater, noting theres no evidence of the chemicals in its drinking water.

Had the city joined the lawsuits against DuPont and 3M, it would have to pay up to $200 per test for the the DuPont suit and up to $800 for the 3M suit. If no evidence of the chemicals, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAs, were discovered before the end of 2030, the city would receive no funds from either suit while continuing to pay legal fees, posing a significant risk to the city if it remained in the suits, according to a resolution the City Council adopted Nov. 28.

After consulting with attorneys and talking to several other municipalities, we feel, at this time, it is best for us to opt out of any settlement, Wade Peterson, the citys water utility superintendent, said at the meeting, adding that city wells have been tested twice. I feel pretty comfortable that our levels will not change or well pick up any PFAs hits.

Peterson added that the city conducted voluntary tests last year before mandated tests by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources earlier in 2023. The city received a waiver from the DNR for further quarterly testing after no discovery of PFAs in the first quarter of the year, Peterson said.

Tests for all five water wells cost the city roughly $8,000, Peterson told City Council President Scott Sloan at the meeting. If the city opted in to the settlement and discovered no PFAs contamination before Dec. 31, 2030, the city would only be reimbursed for its testing costs.

Some residents at the meeting asked what would happen if PFAs were discovered in later years. Ald. David Olson, before hesitatingly voting in favor of the measure, expressed similar sentiments when speaking with Peterson and City Attorney Eric Hagen, whom Mayor Rob Nelson called during discussion of the resolution.

Even though we havent seen contamination in the Baraboo wells, this is a major issue around the state, Olson said at the meeting, mentioning Marinette and La Crosse.

Hagen wrote a letter to the City Council on Nov. 8 advising the city to opt out of the settlements due to lack of PFAs detection and a wide array of liability releases for both 3M and DuPont in each settlement.

Olson also expressed concern for less chances of compensation for other municipalities involved in the class action lawsuit if Baraboo and others opted out. Peterson said opting in would cost the city more with regard to attorney fees and just continued PFAs testing would save money in the future.

Nelson explained after speaking with Hagen that if the city opted in to the class action lawsuit, it would waive the citys ability to file a future lawsuit against 3M and DuPont after the end of 2030. However, the current opt out does not disqualify the city from possibly filing its own lawsuit if PFAs are detected in the water supply before that time, Nelson added.
State financial education leaders praised Wisconsin Dells High Schools amazing work, calling it one of the pioneers of financial education.

The Governors Council on Financial Literacy and Capability held a meeting at the school on Nov. 29 and covered financial literacy for adults and students, financial inclusion and security, and toured the school after the session. The high schools financial program, led by instructor Sarah Campbell, is highly regarded by the council, of which Campbell has been a member since 2013.

Most of the praise heaped on the school district was from council executive director David Mancl. He commended district staff for their abilities to work with students at their level.

This is a great example of a high school that has done exemplary work and one of the first in Wisconsin that had that financial awareness, financial capability programming, council chair Wendy Baumann said.

Financial education programs are necessary for students to develop a mindset towards financial independence when they reach adulthood, Campbell said, adding that this allows them to feel confident in their abilities to support themselves and become more successful.

The ultimate goal is financial independence, Baumann said. That doesnt just happen. It happens by exposure and understanding, even in grade school and definitely in high school.

Financial mindset, according to the school districts financial education syllabus, is a combination of the values, emotions, attitudes, behaviors, and external influences that lead to mental habits for thinking about and responding to any financial circumstances.

In the districts elementary schools, finance-related games and activities are incorporated into math instruction. Separate financial education courses, including one for juniors and seniors mandatory for graduation, begin at Wisconsin Dells Middle School. The district also has dual enrollment courses in math and business with Madison Area Technical College.

Wisconsin Dells High School has had financial education programs since the 1990s, when Campbell said she was enrolled in the courses as a student. During the 2000s, she said, one semester of financial education became a graduation requirement instead of an elective. She returned to teach at the school because of Wisconsin Dells being her hometown and the districts community support.

Its such an awesome place to be and I just wanted to prepare the next generation and generation and generation, Campbell said.

During her presentation, Campbell discussed the schools financial education program and its career and technical education courses, as well as the schools Youth Apprenticeship program, which she also oversees.

Ninety-six percent of high school students in Wisconsin have access to a semester of financial education, Mancl said, including 35 percent of districts that require it for graduation and an additional 61 percent with elective offerings.

Youth Apprenticeship at the high school offers career instruction in business, finance, marketing, trades, agriculture, health care and hospitality, among other fields.

Financial inclusion is ensuring financial education and literacy availability for all residents of Wisconsin, Mancl said. Baumann and Mancl said that the council has done extensive research on financial support for workers in the public and private sector. The council is distributing its annual Financial Literacy awards at the state Capitol on Feb. 29.

Students in Wisconsin Dells High Schools culinary arts program catered the meeting, including cooking food grown by the schools agricultural education program at the adjacent Brew Farm. Table decorations were done by students in the schools Introduction to Fashion course.
Senate Republicans could vote to fire Democratic Gov. Tony Evers latest appointment to the Wisconsin Elections Commission if the six-member agency refuses to appoint an administrator, the Senates lead Republican said.

Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, expressed his frustrations with the bipartisan commission in an interview with the Wisconsin State Journal, but said he remains opposed to dissolving the agency, as some of his fellow Republicans have proposed.

With the high-stakes 2024 presidential election less than a year away, the states GOP leaders and the elections commission are embroiled in a lawsuit seeking clarity over whether the commissions nonpartisan administrator, Meagan Wolfe, is legally in office. Senate Republicans voted earlier this year to fire Wolfe, even though a majority of the commission failed to nominate her and send the appointment to the Senate for final approval.

With a Dane County judge weighing the matter, LeMahieu said Senate Republicans will take a look at all of our options.

That could include a vote to fire former Eau Claire city clerk Carrie Riepl, whom Evers appointed to the commission in October after Senate Republicans fired the Democratic governors previous commission appointee.

We still have the authority to vote down one of the governors appointments to the commission, LeMahieu said in an interview Tuesday. If that new appointee fails to do their job and appoint, we have the ability to vote that new appointment down. So well keep doing our job.

Riepl and a spokesperson for Evers did not immediately respond to requests for comment Wednesday.

The Senate committee on shared revenue, elections and consumer protection is slated to discuss Riepls nomination on Tuesday.

8 rejections

Senate Republicans in October voted to reject eight appointments made by Evers, including Joseph Czarnezki, one of the Democratic members of the commission who abstained from voting on Wolfes reappointment in a bid by Democratic commissioners to block her nomination from reaching the Senate.

The commission in June split on a vote to reappoint Wolfe, with the three Republican members voting to nominate her and the three Democratic members abstaining.

However, Senate Republicans said the commissions deadlocked vote actually constituted a majority since the three commissioners who did vote voted in favor of appointing her. The Senate voted along party lines Sept. 14 to remove Wolfe from office.

Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul promptly sued the Legislature, arguing Wolfes appointment was not legally before lawmakers because the commission did not secure the four votes needed to send the matter to the Legislature.

LeMahieu said the agency is required by law to send an appointment to the Senate, where lawmakers will have the ability to confirm or reject the administrator.

But right now, WEC is failing to follow the law and  whether its Wolfe or someone else  appoint someone to run elections, he said.

While the lawsuit works its way through the courts, some Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, have pressed GOP leaders to hold a vote to impeach Wolfe, though Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, has said such a vote is unlikely.

Impeachment is permitted under the Wisconsin Constitution only for corrupt conduct in office or for the commission of a crime. It takes a simple majority in the Assembly to impeach and a two-thirds majority in the Senate to convict.

Legislative Republicans have targeted Wolfe since the commission made changes to certain procedures in the 2020 general election in response to the COVID-19 pandemic  changes that have spurred some conservatives to falsely accuse her of malfeasance.

Scrutiny on WEC

GOP criticism over the states 2020 election has been largely fueled by Trump, who continues to make baseless claims of widespread fraud in the 2020 vote. A recount, court decisions and multiple reviews have affirmed that President Joe Biden defeated Trump in Wisconsin by almost 21,000 votes.

Sen. Dan Knodl, R-Germantown, who chairs the Senate elections committee, and 10 first-term Assembly Republicans on Monday unveiled a bill that would dissolve the elections commission and transfer election administration duties to the secretary of state.

Under the bill, the secretary of state couldnt adjust election administration without prior approval from election committees in both legislative chambers.

Asked about the proposal, LeMahieu said he remains opposed to eliminating the agency and said moving election duties to the secretary of state, a seat currently held by Democrat Sarah Godlewski, might pose more challenges than our current situation.

I think theres many things we could do to make WEC better, though we may need a different governor to do that, LeMahieu said, referencing several GOP-authored election bills that have been vetoed by Evers.

The only way we could dissolve WEC would be to pass a law, which would need the signature of the governor, LeMahieu said.

Evers told WISNs UpFront on Tuesday under no circumstances would he sign the proposal.

Vos has previously said hes against transferring election duties from the commission to the secretary of state because Democrats have occupied the latter office for decades.
The government and the ruling People Power Party (PPP) agreed Wednesday to introduce dedicated officials looking into school violence cases and increase the number of school police officers (SPO) tasked with handling such matters, the party's chief policymaker, Yu Eui-dong, said.

The plan comes amid calls the government should strengthen teachers' authority in classrooms and improve the way schools handle such cases, after a young elementary school teacher dealing with a school bullying case committed suicide in July.

"The PPP and the government shared a common understanding that students should have their right to study in a safe environment protected, while largely lifting the burden weighing on teachers when handling school violence cases," Yu said, after a meeting with government officials.

Under the plan, the government will introduce officials dedicated to school violence cases and have them conduct investigations regardless of whether the violence took place on or off school property and deal with other legal procedures.

That will help teachers focus on their role as educators, officials said.

The government also plans to increase the number of SPOs, though the exact scale will be determined later.

The ministers of education and interior will announced the final details of the plan after further discussions, officials said. (Yonhap)
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Plus, Kamperett and several fashionable friends get into the spirit on Saturday in the Mission. Sausalito's Winter Market, featuring Marin's best brands, takes place December 16th. And, drumroll please, Bryr's eagerly awaited (online) clog sample starts Friday.

Fashion people, gird your loins for the McMullen x 1 Hotel holiday pop-up.

(Courtesy of Samantha Cooper/McMullen)

Talk about a power couple. When beloved Oakland retailer/fashion mentor/Throughline honoree Sherri McMullen teams up with chic eco-lodging 1 Hotel for a holiday pop-up, it's an RSVP (hella) yes. You're all invited to check out McMullen's designer offerings at the Embarcadero hotel for two upcoming weekends.

What'll be on the racks? A well-edited selection of styles from sought-after global labels (Khaite, The Row, Proenza Schouler, Dries Van Noten, Altuzarra, Simkhai and Harwell Godfrey jewelry) along with pieces from buzzy, next-gen designers a la Christopher John Rogers, Bode, Sloan, and Diotima.

McMullen herself can't wait to get the fashion party started: "Our hope is that it gives visitors a chance to discover all of the amazing designers we've curated at McMullen and imparts a festive spirit when gathering with friends and loved ones this season." // 10am to 5pm, Friday through Sunday, December 8-10 and December 15-17; 1 Hotel: 8 Mission St. (Embarcadero), shopmcmullen.com
Leave the World Behind began as a best-selling, well-crafted 2020 novel of psychological suspense by Rumaan Alam. Now its a film written and directed by Sam Esmail (Mr. Robot, Homecoming) in limited release in theaters and on Netflix Dec. 8. It comes with an impressive cast  Julia Roberts, Ethan Hawke, Mahershala Ali and Myhala Herrold have the leading roles  and Barack and Michelle Obama are among its executive producers.



But fans of the novel, a National Book Award finalist, will find some marked changes in Esmails adaptation. He didnt want to be handcuffed to the source material. Im not a fan of making a carbon copy of the book, he told Entertainment Weekly. What I wanted was to create this stand-alone piece so that you could read the book and you could watch the movie and one wouldnt spoil the other  that there were sort of two separate pieces and two different interpretations of the same story.

Heres what to know before you watch.

Warning: Big spoilers ahead!

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Whats the book about?

Ethan Hawke (left) and Julia Roberts JoJo Whilden/Netflix

Alams story is centered on a white couple from Brooklyn, Amanda and Clay Sandford, and their two teenagers, Archie and Rose, who are vacationing in a beautifully appointed Airbnb home rental (with a white picket fence, no less) in a quiet area of Long Island when they receive a late-night knock on the door. Its the homes owners, a wealthy, older African American couple, Ruth and gray-haired G.H. Washington (G stands for George), seeking refuge following a blackout in New York City. Alas, theres no cellphone or internet service, so Amanda and Clay cant confirm their story, although it becomes increasingly clear that something is not right in the world.

G.H. and Ruth end up staying in their homes basement suite, and their interactions with the Sanfords are layered with some racial tension, most markedly in the form of Amandas suspicions that the pair are not the actual homeowners (Maybe hes the handyman and shes the housekeeper). Theres a bit of class tension as well (the Washingtons live on Park Avenue; the less well-to-do Sanfords are Brooklynites). But the book is most concerned with the increasingly bizarre, seriously scary happenings  crazy weather; horrible, glass-cracking-loud noises; a flock of flamingos in the backyard  that hint at the beginnings of an undefined but potentially world-ending calamity.
Thinking about a destination vacation? Consider these hot spots, where you can save big when crowds are small.

You can take advantage of discounts when visiting Kennebunkport, Maine, from November through May. Bob Dennis

Kennebunkport, Maine



Peak season: June through October

Instead go: November through May

What you gain: Easy access to the best hotels and restaurants, along with discounts in a charming village. You can walk on quiet beaches and hike on miles of trails. Also, theres cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and sleigh riding after it snows.

What you give up: Blissful temperatures in the 70s, good for going barefoot and dining outdoors. Some stores and restaurants may be shuttered from January to March.

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Kennebunkport Inn

66 percent less

July: $467

November: $159

Theres a slower pace and less competition for restaurants if traveling to St. Thomas from June through November. Mauritius Images/Alamy

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands



Peak season: December through mid-April

Instead go: June through November

What you gain: A slower pace and less competition for restaurants, shops, boat tours, snorkeling equipment and other amenities. Youll also enjoy a temperate climate: While much of the U.S. mainland bakes during the summer, Caribbean temperatures average in the 80s.

What you give up: The near certainty of sunny skies. The chance of rain increases in May and grows further during peak hurricane season in September and October  which is a good reason to consider buying travel insurance.

The Pink Palm Hotel

51 percent less

January: $489

October: $239
Hero of 2002 inter-Korean naval skirmish tapped as vice veterans affairs minister

By Jun Ji-hye

President Yoon Suk Yeol nominated Kim Hong-il, who currently heads the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission, as the chief of the Korea Communications Commission (KCC), Wednesday.

The nominee was Yoon's boss when they were both prosecutors.

The nomination came five days after Lee Dong-kwan quit as the chief of the broadcasting watchdog just three months after he took the office, dogged by the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea's (DPK) attempt to impeach him. The DPK accused Lee of unfair personnel decisions and appointments aimed at increasing the government's influence over broadcasters.

The nominee for the next broadcasting watchdog chief is subject to National Assembly confirmation hearings before being appointed to the position.

Presidential chief of staff Kim Dae-ki said during a press briefing that Kim Hong-il was tapped due to his track record of upholding impartiality.

Kim Hong-il is a seasoned figure both in legal circles and public offices as he has served as a lawyer and head of the anti-corruption agency after he left the prosecution in 2013, the chief of staff said.

Fairness is necessary for the KCC more than ever as the commission currently has a pile of pending issues on which the interests of various circles are sharply conflicting. Nominee Kim Hong-il is believed to be the right person to protect the KCCs independence and fairness as he was an impartial and empathetic legal official with a firm conviction about the law and principles and a balanced view.

In response, Kim, who was present at the briefing, said, If I am appointed to the position, I will do my best to enable independent and fair broadcasting that is trusted by the public.

The president is known to have a deep sense of respect for the nominee, because the two worked together at the prosecution.

Yoon appears to be appointing a trusted official to the key position to settle confusion and controversy surrounding the KCC caused by the abrupt resignation of its former chief ahead of general elections slated for April.

The nomination, however, is expected to provoke a backlash from the opposition party, which claims that Kims background as a senior prosecutor has absolutely no relation to the duties concerning broadcasting and communications.

The opposition party is also criticizing the nominees track record of investigations when he was a prosecutor, such as the BBK stock price manipulation scandal allegedly involving Lee Myung-bak when he was the presidential candidate of the Grand National Party, the predecessor of the ruling People Power Party.

On Dec. 5 of 2007, just 14 days before the presidential election, Kim decided to free Lee Myung-bak without charges and dropped the case. Lee was elected president in that election. But suspicion and controversy over the case have lingered for years.

The opposition party is expected to raise these issues during the upcoming parliamentary confirmation hearings as the rival parties have been butting heads over the broadcasting watchdog in order to gain an advantage before the general elections, given the huge influence that broadcasters have over voters.

Meanwhile, the president also named Lee Hee-wan, a Navy captain, as vice veterans affairs minister, and Oh Seok-hwan, presidential secretary for education, as vice education minister, according to the presidential chief of staff.

The vice veterans affairs minister nominee is hailed as a hero of the Second Battle of Yeonpyeong, an inter-Korean naval skirmish that took place in 2002 near the western maritime demarcation line, for defending the sea border even after he was shot in both legs.

Through Lees nomination, the government expressed its firm willingness to create a country where heroes are treated well, the chief of staff said.

The latest nominations are part of a wider Cabinet reshuffle in preparation for the expected departures of ministers who plan to run in the general elections. Yoon is also seeking to revamp his administration in his upcoming third year in office.

On Monday, Yoon replaced six Cabinet members, including the finance and land ministers.
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Inspired by his effort to turn his movie 'Australia' into a TV series 'Faraway Downs', Baz Luhrmann is mulling over the idea of doing similar thing with the Elvis Presley biopic.

Dec 6, 2023

AceShowbiz - Baz Luhrmann welcomes the idea of making an expanded version of "Elvis". The 61-year-old filmmaker has developed an extended edition of his 2008 film "Australia" in the TV series "Faraway Downs" and revealed that he would consider doing the same thing with his biopic that starred Austin Butler as the King of Rock and Roll.

"With 'Elvis', it's almost impossible to believe how big a life he lived in such a short period of time, for someone who died very early into his 40s," Baz said to Collider. "When I shot it, I absolutely shot quite the epic version of it, and it's on record, me saying that there's a four-hour cut."

"So, while the version that's out there in the cinema played very, very well, not this year and maybe not next year, and maybe I won't do it, but I do know that there's a long-play version of that story that would definitely go down the same road as I did on this."

Baz has been surprised at the level of interest in "Faraway Downs" and thinks the same experiment could be applied to his other work - which includes "Romeo + Juliet" and "Moulin Rouge!".

He said, "It's really amazing how much there is in it, from press and from people. People are so interested in what the difference between 'Australia' and 'Faraway Downs' is and what I've done. So, I don't know, but there's an energy around it, for sure."

Luhrmann never feels that any of his movies are perfect but fears that he will "ruin" them if he does not relinquish creative control. He said of his films, "I know when they're working, but I don't think any of them are perfect. If you didn't take them away from me, I'd probably still work on them and probably ruin them, really. It's a bit like a parent who over-parents."

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The former 'Fashion Star' host reflects on her journey to sobriety, explaining that she started to learn to 'get to know' herself after staying away from booze.

Dec 6, 2023

AceShowbiz - Elle Macpherson quit drinking as it was blocking her from being "fully present" in life. The supermodel - nicknamed "The Body" by Time in 1989 - is due to celebrate her 60th birthday in March and says she feels better than ever as she approaches the landmark, thanks partly to quitting booze in 2003.

"I stopped drinking in 2003 because I felt I couldn't be fully present in my life and it was a wonderful springboard of getting to know myself on a deeper level. Everybody has their own journey and I'm not interested in telling other people what to do but I know that this was a decision that I've never regretted," she told Body and Soul magazine.

"Although it required discipline and persistence the bottom line is you can't be well and present in your life if you're not present and well, and alcohol doesn't really support that. It's very difficult to get to know yourself if you're numbing yourself."

Mum-of-two Elle recently posted an image on Instagram of her Alcoholics Anonymous tri-plate token marking 20 years of sobriety.

The model-turned wellness guru, who is dating US musician Doyle Bramhall, 54, added about ageing, "I feel incredible. I think that's the most important thing. You say I look incredible but I feel that way. I just love that sense of vitality and I'm grateful for my life, I'm grateful for my journey and I am loving turning 60."

Elle, who has sons Flynn, 25, and Cy, 20, has endured the ending of two marriages, the breakdown of her relationship with the dad of her two children, the French financier Arpad Busson, 60, as well as public battles with former business associates, issues with alcohol, and a period in a rehab facility in 2003.

She said about taking care of her health as she ages, "I spent many years tending to my outer appearance as 'The Body' and really living up to other people's expectations of me. Today I find my life way more fulfilling and enriching as I focus on my inner wellbeing and balance because that delivers peace and joy and love."

"I don't focus on ageing. I think it's more important to focus on the quality of the life that you're living and how you're living life to the fullest. They always say it's not the years in your life it's the life in your years. That's what I like to help people with, which is how they can live their life to their fullest."

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The Tesla boss has mocked the 'This Is Paris' star after she decided to cut off her partnership with his social media platform to promote her business venture.

Dec 6, 2023

AceShowbiz - Elon Musk has blasted Paris Hilton for pulling her kitchenware adverts from X. The 52-year-old Tesla boss sparked a feud with the heiress-turned-entrepreneur after she took down her "Be an Icon" promotions from the social media platform amid concerns over its antisemitic content.

"The ad campaign wasn't super convincing tbh. I don't think Paris cooks a lot," Elon wrote on X, which he bought when it was branded Twitter in October 2022 for $44 billion.

The ad campaign wasnt super convincing tbh. I dont think Paris cooks a lot.  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 3, 2023

In October, X's CEO Linda Yaccarino announced a partnership between the platform and Paris' 11:11 Media firm. But the heiress ended it after Elon seemingly endorsed an antisemitic conspiracy theory last month.

Other companies including Disney, Paramount, NBCUniversal, Comcast, Lionsgate and IBM also pulled ads due to his online activity.

Elon recently apologized for his post, but also abused advertisers for leaving the platform. He said in November at the New York Times DealBook Summit in New York, "I don't want them to advertise. If someone is going to blackmail me with advertising or money (go away). Is that clear? Hey (Disney CEO) Bob (Iger), if you're in the audience, that's how I feel."

Paris has continued to promote her kitchenware line, which includes pink utensils, pans and tea pots emblazoned with her "That's Hot" catchphrase, on X's rival sites Instagram and TikTok.

The heiress, who hosts her culinary series "Cooking with Paris" on Netflix has yet to publicly respond to Elon's remarks, including his assertion that she is incapable in the kitchen.

Paris said about her kitchenware venture in an interview with Eater in November, "Looking at all the kitchenware available online and in stores, I just noticed it was so boring and not fun. I didn't really see any pink. I just saw rusty, like, silver and boring colours."

"It seemed like there was something missing. I wanted to elevate people's kitchens and make it more fun for them to cook. I want everyone to feel like an icon, even in the kitchen. Everyone should feel iconic no matter where they are."

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After celebrating her achievement in reaching an intermediate level in the martial art, the former Victoria's Secret model takes her daughter Vivian for shopping on the 11-year-old's birthday.

Dec 6, 2023

AceShowbiz - Gisele Bundchen has stepped out following a celebration for a new achievement. After earning a purple belt in jiu-jitsu, the former Victoria's Secret model was out and about in Miami and opted to wear a skin-tight dress.

On Tuesday, December 5, the 43-year-old supermodel was caught on camera shopping at a store with her daughter Vivian, who turned 11 years old that same day. In pictures obtained and published by Daily Mail, the mother and daughter duo could be seen strolling around the store before making their way to their home.

Gisele, who has been romantically linked to Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor Joaquim Valente, appeared to have treated Vivian to some birthday gifts. In some of the photos, Gisele was pictured walking next to Vivian while they were holding each other's hands. In the meantime, both of them were carrying similar big brown shopping bags.

For the day out, Gisele flaunted her fit physique in a body-fitted dark gray mini dress that came with an off-the-shoulder design and knot on the wearer's chest. In addition to the paper bag, she carried a brown velvet bag with chain straps on one of her shoulders.

The blonde beauty, who wrote a cookbook titled "Nourish", also donned a pair of gray flat sandals, brown sunglasses, a ring, gold bracelet and matching necklace. Letting loose her long blonde hair, she styled it into loose waves and parted it in the middle.

In the meantime, Vivian went with a casual ensemble. She sported a white tee under a long-sleeved black hoodie that came with blue graphics on its front side and a zipper. She also wore a pair of blue denim shorts as well as white slippers.

That same day, Gisele paid a sweet birthday tribute to Vivian via Instagram. Along with a series of adorable photos, the model wrote in the caption of the post, "Happy birthday my little sunshine! I am so proud of you in every way. Thank you for making my life so much brighter! Te amo muito," adding a red heart emoji.

One day prior, Gisele attended a ceremony that was held by the Valente Brothers academy in Miami, after earning a purple belt in jiu-jitsu, proving that she has reached an intermediate level in the Brazilian martial art. On Monday, December 4, she uploaded a photo of her and her two children, Vivian and son Benjamin, via Instagram Story.

Gisele Bundchen celebrated earning a purple belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu with her kids Vivian and Benjamin.

In the picture, Gisele was sitting down in between Benjamin, who happily wrapped his arm around her shoulder, and Vivian, who was lying down in front of her and flashing a smile. The mother of two looked cheerful and smiled from ear-to-ear. Over the snap, Gisele noted, "Thank you for teaching us this incredible art that helps us on and off the mat."

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In a new interview, the 'Maleficent: Mistress of Evil' actress, who has six children, shares her desire to move out of Hollywood and live in her house in Cambodia.

Dec 6, 2023

AceShowbiz - Angelina Jolie apparently has no plans to live in California forever. When talking about her plan for the future, the "Maleficent: Mistress of Evil" actress revealed that she wants to move out of the state and stay in Cambodia.

The 48-year-old actress spilled that she is planning to leave Los Angeles one day to live far away from the United States in a new interview published on Tuesday, December 5. Speaking to The Wall Street Journal, said that she would love to move out of Hollywood, but divorce stripped her ability to travel "as freely."

"It's part of what happened after my divorce. I lost the ability to live and travel as freely," the Oscar winner shared, before declaring, "I will move when I can."

Angelina, who was raised around Hollywood since her father Jon Voight and mother Marcheline Bertrand were also actors, noted that she would love to stay in her home in Cambodia. On the reason why, she said, "I grew up in quite a shallow place. Of all the places in the world, Hollywood is not a healthy place. So you seek authenticity."

During the chat, Angelina talked about her six children, whom she shares with his former husband and actor Brad Pitt. "They are the closest people to me and my life, and they're my close friends," she gushed. "We are seven very different people, which is our strength. We had to heal. There are things we needed to heal from."

The "Eternals" actress went on to spill that she is currently not dating anyone. While mentioning being friends with some women from a tight-knit group of, she admitted, "I don't really have  a social life. I realized my closest friends are refugees. Maybe four out of six of the women that I am close to are from war and conflict."

Elsewhere in the interview, Angelina admitted that she doesn't enjoy the attention that comes with her acting career. "I wouldn't be an actress today," she declared. "When I was starting out, it wasn't as much of an expectation to be as public, to share so much." She added that she was "never very impressed with it [Hollywood]. I never bought into it as significant or important."

Angelina is a mother to 22-year-old Maddox, 20-year-old Pax, 18-year-old Zahara and 17-year-old Shiloh, whom she has with Brad. The two also have 15-year-old twins Knox as well as Vivienne.

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After going under the knife to alter her chest, the 19-year-old daughter of Charlie Sheen and Denise Richards spills the condition of her upper assets via social media.

Dec 6, 2023

AceShowbiz - Sami Sheen has offered an update following plastic surgery. After going under the knife to have bigger breasts, the daughter of Charlie Sheen and Denise Richards spilled the condition of her upper assets via social media.

The 19-year-old OnlyFans model shared the update on her TikTok page. In the comments section of a video, which she uploaded on Monday, December 4, she wrote, "They still hard as rocks," while seemingly making a reference to her breasts. She was replying to a fan who let out a slew of cherry emojis in a comment.

Sami Sheen gave an update on her breasts following plastic surgery.

In the video itself, Sami put on a busty display in a white corset top that came with a very low-cut design, matching laces on its upper part, spaghetti straps and a number of gold buttons. She accessorized with a pair of huge hoop earrings and a ring.

For the clip, the content creator on the adult platform put on a full makeup, including glossy pink lipstick, long lashes and pink blush on her cheeks. In addition, she let loose her long blonde hair and styled it in a messy hairdo.

It did not take long for the post to be flooded with positive online responses from TikTok users. In the comments section, one in particular gushed, "U are GORGEOUS," to which she replied, "Girl you are GORGEOUS WHAT." Another marveled, "So pretty you look amazing."

A third penned, "I'm glad you feel good about yourself as well as feeling more confident," adding a smiling face with three red heart emoji. In response, she wrote, "Ahhh thank you," and added a similar emoji. Meanwhile, a fourth exclaimed, "They look so good!"

Previously, Sami shared her plan to go under the knife to have D-cup breasts. Speaking to Bustle, she explained, "I was 10 years old and like, 'I can't wait to have big boobs like my mom.' All my friends were getting boobs, and I was just like, 'OK, when's it my turn?' I would always stuff my bra with socks and stuff."

On November 15, Sami gave her devotees an update on her plan. She released a mirror selfie featuring her posing in a surgical gown as her hair was covered with a hairnet. Over the snap, she noted, "Guess who got a new rack todayyyy."

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In a significant move in the advertising industry, Aalap Desai, former Chief Creative Officer of Dentsu Creative West and Dentsu Creative Experience India, has announced the launch of TGTHR (Together)  a full-funnel ad agency, with a focus on bringing together diverse talents and expertise to create a unique and cohesive agency.

From this development, it seems Aalap Desai's departure from Dentsu Creative was motivated by a desire to pursue a unique vision in the advertising and creative industry. The question he posed: "If you were to leave today, which agency would you like to join?" suggests a deliberate and thoughtful approach to his career path. The introduction of TGTHR reflects Aalap Desai's ambition to create a space where exceptional work and a positive, collaborative culture come together. The emphasis on happiness meeting creativity suggests a focus not only on professional excellence but also on creating an environment that fosters employee well-being and satisfaction.

Speaking on the launch, Aalap Desai said: "The advertising industry is often filled with a sea of sameness. The saviours of this industry are the sparks of creativity that we see scattered here and there. It is challenging to find the right people for the job. The one who knows how to create a great TV ad might not know how to increase followers on a social handle. The one who has mastery over social media may have no idea about master branding. What if all these talents could come together to form a cohesive whole? If one great creative person is a force, imagine what could be achieved when they all combine as a force multiplier! This is especially true when you create an environment where they can thrive. That's the idea behind TGTHR. Bring together expertise, talent, and passion to deliver clients unparalleled quality, connectedness, and effectiveness. All the while ensuring that we love where we work."

TGTHR is a powerhouse of creativity, encompassing expertise from every domain, including mainline (TVC, Print, Outdoor), digital, film production, design, content, and media. What makes this agency different from everyone else claiming the same thing? The talent. The agency boasts an impressive collective experience of 110+ years in advertising, 550+ International and National awards, and a track record of delivering over 12,000 campaigns. Headquartered in Mumbai, TGTHR also has branches in Delhi and Bengaluru.

Aalap Desai - a creative force to be reckoned with, held the role of Chief Creative Officer at Dentsu Creative West and Dentsu Creative Experience India. His journey at Dentsu included being the National Creative Director at Dentsu McGarry Bowen India and co-heading the creative team at Dentsu Webchutney Mumbai. Aalap made waves with standout projects like Code Name: Uri, The 8-bit Journo for Vice, and The World's Most Reported Trailer for Thappad.

Throughout his career, Aalap has significantly contributed to agencies like Disney+ Hotstar, Leo Burnett, JWT, DDB Mudra, Ogilvy, and Ambience Publicis. He played a crucial role in shaping the stories of popular brands like McDonald's, Complan, Huggies, Nerolac, Videocon d2h, as well as youth-focused ones like Early Salary and MTV India.
Amdocs and NVIDIA today announced they are collaborating to optimize large language models (LLMs) to speed adoption of generative AI applications and services across the $1.7 trillion telecommunications and media industries.

Amdocs and NVIDIA will customize enterprise-grade LLMs running on NVIDIA accelerated computing as part of the Amdocs amAIz framework. The collaboration will empower communications service providers to efficiently deploy generative AI use cases across their businesses, from customer experiences to network provisioning.

Amdocs will use NVIDIA DGX Cloud AI supercomputing and NVIDIA AI Enterprise software to support flexible adoption strategies and help ensure service providers can simply and safely use generative AI applications.

Aligned with the Amdocs strategy of advancing generative AI use cases across the industry, the collaboration with NVIDIA builds on the previously announced Amdocs-Microsoft partnership. Service providers and media companies can adopt these applications in secure and trusted environments, including on premises and in the cloud.

With these new capabilities  including the NVIDIA NeMo framework for custom LLM development and guardrail features  service providers can benefit from enhanced performance, optimized resource utilization and flexible scalability to support emerging and future needs.

NVIDIA and Amdocs are partnering to bring a unique platform and unmatched value proposition to customers, said Shuky Sheffer, Amdocs president and CEO. By combining NVIDIAs cutting-edge AI infrastructure, software and ecosystem, and Amdocs industry-first amAlz AI framework, we believe that we have an unmatched offering that is both future-ready and value-additive for our customers.

Across a broad range of industries, enterprises are looking for the fastest, safest path to apply generative AI to boost productivity, said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA. Our collaboration with Amdocs will help telco service providers automate personalized assistants, service ticket routing and other use cases for their billions of customers, and help the telcos analyze and optimize their operations.

Amdocs counts more than 350 of the worlds leading telecom and media companies as customers, including 27 of the worlds top 30 service providers2. With more than 1.7B daily digital journeys, Amdocs platforms impact more than 3 billion people around the world.

NVIDIA and Amdocs are exploring a number of generative AI use cases to simplify and improve operations by providing secure, cost-effective and high-performance generative AI capabilities.

Initial use cases span customer care, including accelerating resolution of customer inquiries by drawing information from across company data. On the network operations side, the companies are exploring how to proactively generate solutions that aid configuration, coverage or performance issues as they arise.
Disney+ Hotstar, Indias leading streaming platform, has launched a handbook for effective brand building on the platform. Titled Winning in the OTT Era with Disney+ Hotstar, the handbook shares learnings based on the analysis of over 200+ campaigns and offers a 360 view of why marketers must include OTT in their marketing strategy. The playbook has been developed in collaboration with industry experts Kantar, Neurons, Integral Ad Science, Mediasmart and Metrix Lab. The playbook shares key media planning principles along with creative best practices for video ads to enable advertisers to make the most of their campaigns on OTT platforms, it also inspires advertisers to go beyond vanilla advertising by collaborating with the Disney+ Hotstars CreativeWorks team to create bespoke, contextual, impactful campaigns. It also shares insights to make the most of the Connected TVs (CTV) feed as a medium to connect with their desired audiences.

The changing media-scape of advertising has made it imperative for brands to embrace OTT platforms. Disney+ Hotstar has continuously led the way in the ever-evolving OTT industry, constantly innovating to provide exceptional experiences for both consumers and advertisers. We are delighted to present the Winning in The OTT Era with Disney+ Hotstar playbook, that shares the recipe for success to enable advertisers harness the full potential of our platform thus maximizing impact for their campaigns. Created in collaboration with leading industry experts, the handbook offers invaluable guidance for effective media planning and brand building, enabling our advertisers to make data-driven decisions and significantly enhance advertising ROI, said Ajit Varghese, Head of Network - Ad Sales at Disney Star.

Additionally, the handbook lays down the best practices that can be deployed by brands to maximize their ROIs when advertising on Disney+ Hotstar:

Campaigns with 3+ video ads were most successful in driving brand awareness, favorability, and purchase intent.

were most successful in driving brand awareness, favorability, and purchase intent. Campaigns with 20+ second video ads delivered the highest success

delivered the highest success Midroll campaigns supplemented with other creative formats delivered 30% more success in driving brand message and purchase

delivered 30% more success in driving brand message and purchase Operating at a frequency of 6+ increases purchase intent by 70% and brand awareness by 50%

increases purchase intent by 70% and brand awareness by 50% Longer campaigns (>6 weeks) yield higher success on upper and lower funnel metrics.

Campaigns following these practices on Disney+ Hotstar recorded a 10% higher success rate vs. industry benchmarks defined by Kantar across digital campaigns. The study also highlights how Impact advertising on the platform has delivered 100% success across the funnel for sponsors and inventory buyers and outperformed industry benchmarks. The case studies recorded reveal the following:
Korean firms put more emphasis on international relations

By Park Jae-hyuk

Debate is heating up over the recent nomination of Second Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Oh Young-ju as the minister of SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) and startups, because she has only worked as a diplomat in her entire 36-year career, according to industry officials, Wednesday.

The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) criticized her lack of direct experience.

Since the launch of the SMEs ministry, it has been led by professors studying SMEs and startups, or politicians who worked at relevant standing committees at the National Assembly, said Rep. Kim Han-jung of the DPK, a vice chairman of the Trade, Industry, Energy, SMEs and Startups Committee. How can a diplomat, who focused only on Busans World Expo bid until last month, understand economic difficulties?

DPK floor leader Rep. Hong Ihk-pyo warned of a thorough review in the forthcoming confirmation hearing, raising doubts about Ohs understanding of the reality of domestic SMEs.

The opposition bloc even attributed her nomination to her husband, Jang Seok-myeong, who served as the discipline secretary at Cheong Wa Dae under the Lee Myung-bak administration and supported President Yoon Suk Yeols election campaign.

SMEs ministry officials are also said to be divided on the qualifications of their new leader.

In response, Oh told reporters Tuesday that she will be able to utilize her international networks in helping Korean SMEs pioneer new markets.

It is important for companies to grow with domestic consumption, but it is also very important for them to pioneer new markets abroad, she said.

The presidential office also described her as the right person to globalize Korean SMEs.

In Koreas business circles, career diplomats have been in great demand in recent years, as escalating geopolitical tensions have had bigger impacts on global supply chains.

Federation of Korean Industries Vice Chairman Kim Chang-beom, former ambassador to Indonesia, worked as an adviser to Hyundai Motor Group until September. The automotive group is also said to be planning to hire former U.S. Ambassador to Korea Sung Kim, following its hiring of two career diplomats, former Presidential Protocol Secretary Kim Il-bum and Kim Dong-jo, former presidential spokesperson for the foreign press.

On Tuesday, Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Chung Euisun met with female ambassadors in Korea at Hyundai Motor Studio in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province.

Samsung Electronics also promoted two former diplomats in its latest executive reshuffle. Last year, the tech giant hired former U.S. Ambassador to Korea Mark Lippert as the executive vice president of its North American operations.

In addition, SK, POSCO and KT also employed former diplomats over the past few years.
New York Festivals Advertising Awards has announced Javier Campopiano, Global Chief Creative Officer of McCann Worldgroup and McCann, as the industry trailblazer leading the 2024 Executive Jury panel.

Poised to make history, NYFs 2024 Advertising Awards will kick off with a groundbreaking start led by Campopiano, who will not only serve as Jury President, but also as the curator of a new jury comprised of an exclusive group of the industrys top international creative leaders. The New York Festivals Executive Jury will be an assemblage of carefully chosen award-winning industry luminaries with the career and caliber of taste to identify creative works that serve as a North Star for the kind of creative that should be executed by agencies and brands to take the industry forward. Together, they will throw down the gauntlet, redefining excellence and setting the stage for a new chapter in creative distinction.

At the helm of the Executive Jury, Campopiano brings extensive creative expertise to inspire careful examination and foster a culture of collaboration among jury members. Known for steering the creation of powerfully provocative works as a creative leader, Javier ensures a thoughtful and deliberate evaluation of entries throughout the judging process. The 2024 jury room experience will be unparalleled, guided by the insights and collective expertise of these industry icons as they meticulously judge 2024s entries with thoughtful consideration, resulting in the recognition of extraordinary creative work.

We are thrilled that Javier Campopiano will lead and curate the 2024 Executive Jury, as a visionary creative leader he is renowned for pioneering ideas that defy convention, said Scott Rose, President, New York Festivals Advertising Awards. With a global reputation for groundbreaking multi-faceted work for some of the worlds most prominent brands, Javiers unique perspective will bring a fresh and dynamic atmosphere to the jury sessions.

We are looking, quite simply, for work that would make someone want to come into this industry. Ideas that exemplify the best of what agencies and creative minds can do and reminds all of us why we dedicate so much of ourselves to it, said Campopiano. Whatever the package, platform or format, we will honour those ideas that are both timeless and represent the future of the industry  and bring something innovative and impactful to the table in some way weve never quite seen before. Im very much looking forward to working with an exemplary jury in this important and inspiring endeavour.

In his role at McCann Worldgroup as Global CCO, Javier Campopiano is responsible for the creative leadership, product, and ambition of the McCann Worldgroup global network, spanning 100+ countries and 15,000+ people. He works closely with creatives, strategists, and business leaders to drive the worlds best creative work on behalf of the companys clients. Throughout his career he has applied his distinctive talents to elevate global brands across international networks.

Campopiano brings a wealth of experience to his role, having previously held the position of Worldwide Chief Creative Officer at Grey and OpenX, the dedicated WPP agency for The Coca-Cola Company. In this capacity, he spearheaded global creative development for both agencies. Prior to this, he served as Chief Creative Officer at several FCB agencies and played a pivotal role in shaping the creative landscape during his four-plus years at Saatchi & Saatchi. During that time period, he led a transformation of the creative reputation of the flagship office in New York.

Beginning his career in advertising as an intern at Ogilvy Argentina, Campopiano swiftly advanced and went on to become Regional Creative Director in Latin America for Ogilvy, Saatchi & Saatchi and FCB before becoming a Partner and Chief Creative Officer of FCB New York.

His reputation as an innovative creative consistently stands out, having earned recognition on the global stage. Campopianos achievements have garnered international acclaim, including over 200 Cannes Lions, which include prestigious accolades such as a Titanium Lion, as well as Grand Prix in Outdoor and Film. He has been awarded top honours at numerous renowned international competitions.

The New York Festivals Advertising Awards competition receives entries from more than 60 countries and is judged by more than 400 members of NYFs Executive Jury and Grand Jury, who collectively cast their votes to select the years trophy-winning work.

The 2024 New York Festivals Advertising Awards opens for entries from today, December 6, 2023.
As of 2023, Hasan Piker has an estimated net worth of around $8 million. This figure reflects his success as a prominent online content creator and political commentator.

Hasan Piker is an American Twitch streamer, political commentator, and media personality. He has gained a large following for his blunt liberal commentary on news and politics. However, Hasan has built a successful career in new media and amassed significant wealth at a young age.

Hasan Piker Net Worth

Hasan Piker has amassed a significant net worth, which is estimated to be around $8 million as of late 2023. This fortune has built swiftly thanks to the explosion in popularity of his Twitch streaming channel over the past 3 years.

The bulk of Hasans net worth and income comes from subscriber revenue on Twitch. With over 1.4 million followers on the platform, Hasan has over 30,000 paying subscribers each month through Twitch Prime and direct paid memberships.

Estimates suggest Hasan makes at least $3 per subscriber after Twitchs cut. Twitch subscription revenue likely generates over $100,000 per month for him before additional income.

On top of subscriptions, Hasan earns income from Twitch ad revenue, fan donations, YouTube ad earnings from his over 800k YouTube subscribers, sponsored content deals, merchandise sales, and speaking engagements.

Early Life and Background

Hasan Piker was born on July 25, 1991, in New Jersey. His family is of Turkish descent. Hasan spent much of his childhood years split between New Jersey and Istanbul, Turkey.

Hasans uncle is Cenk Uygur, the founder and host of the popular liberal news channel The Young Turks. Growing up, Hasan was exposed to political discussion and progressive viewpoints through his uncles work. This early exposure to blunt debate from Cenk on The Young Turks influenced the development of Hasans own political voice and commentary style.

Hasan attended West Morris Mendham High School in New Jersey, where he was on the wrestling team. He then went on to graduate from Rutgers University in 2013 with a bachelors degree in communications.

Career Breakthrough

Hasan Pikers big career breakthrough came in 2018 when he began streaming political commentary videos on Twitch. While he had already been appearing on his uncle Cenks popular news channel, The Young Turks (TYT), the move to streaming allowed Hasan to build his brand and platform.

Choosing Twitch was an astute and ahead-of-the-curve decision. While the platform was traditionally focused on gaming, by 2018, the Just Chatting category was growing rapidly.

Hasan realized Twitch offered a chance to reach young viewers seeking alternative and relatable commentary on politics and news instead of the staid coverage from cable outlets.

His early broadcasts were casual, low-production value streams. But Hasan brought intellectual depth and blunt, progressive critiques that connected extremely well.

Income Streams

Hasan Piker has effectively diversified his income streams, a key factor in understanding his net worth. Recognized widely as a political commentator and broadcaster on Twitch, his presence on this platform is a substantial source of revenue.

Notably, Pikers audience generously contributed through subscriptions, donations, and bits, fueling a significant portion of his income.

Prominent, too, is his YouTube channel, where monetized videos rake in earnings from ad revenue. Additionally, Pikers keen sense for apparel and merchandise leads to a profitable line of clothing, often promoted directly to his followers for purchase.

Business Ventures

Hasan Piker has sought to expand his revenue sources by pursuing business ventures and investments.

In 2019, Hasan co-founded a gaming company called DropOut. TV along with fellow political streamer Mike from PA and video game developer Mark Risk. The company aims to build out a streaming platform focused on leftist commentary and critique of the video game industry.

Hasan also partnered with YouTubers Ethan Klein of h3h3 Productions and Theodore Lee of Immortal to launch a streetwear clothing brand known as TF Supremacy in June 2022. The brand features progressive slogans and modern graphic hoodies and t-shirts.

On the investment side, Hasan has a prolific angel investing portfolio for his age, spreading capital into over 50 startups. He has focused heavily on backing progressive organizing platforms, alt-media ventures and Substack newsletters aligned with his political vision.

Investments And Assets

Hasan Pikers notable investments have garnered much interest, particularly due to his success in the digital and broadcast media domains. Among his many strategic decisions, Pikers foray into real estate stands out as a significant contributor to his growing portfolio. His investments are not just limited to stock market assets but also include stakes in early-stage technology startups, which exhibit considerable potential for growth.

Assessing Hasan Pikers tangible assets requires a look at his luxury possessions, which include high-end real estate properties and a collection of cars. His choice of investments reflects a blend of lifestyle and long-term wealth accumulation strategies that have played a pivotal role in enhancing his net worth.

Personal Life and Relationships

Hasan Piker keeps his personal life relatively private. However, he resides in West Hollywood, Los Angeles, California.

Hasan had a public relationship several years ago with YouTuber Jenna Marbles, who had over 20 million subscribers at the time. Their high-profile relationship brought increased attention to Hasan early in his streaming career. However, the pair broke up amicably after a couple of years of dating.

In 2022, Hasan was dating TikTok star Nora Rae. The Gen Z-focused app TikTok has over 1 billion monthly active users, allowing influencers to achieve fame extremely quickly with viral content. Nora Rae boasts over 700k TikTok followers and is rising.

Philanthropic Efforts

Hasan Piker is known not only for his commentary and streaming career but also for his significant charitable work. His contributions often focus on critical social issues and aid in fostering progressive change.

His philanthropy includes fundraising for various causes through his large online platform. Piker has raised substantial amounts for healthcare, disaster relief, and LGBTQ+ programs. His reputation as an influencer amplifies the effect of his charitable actions, often leading to higher visibility for non-profits and increased overall donations.

Controversies

Hasan Pikers blunt liberal perspective and combative debate style have landed him in hot water several times. His quick-trigger comments on news figures and issues have created a backlash and intense online debate about appropriate boundaries.

One heated exchange occurred in 2019 when Hasan called Republican congressman Dan Crenshaw, a former Navy SEAL who lost an eye fighting in Afghanistan, an idiot after Crenshaw complained of criticism from comedian Pete Davidson. Many fans and viewers accused Hasan of insulting a war hero.

Later in 2019, clips of Hasan saying America deserved 9/11 went viral to outrage. He later clarified on Twitter that he believed American foreign policy decisions deserved condemnation, not civilians who tragically died in the 9/11 attacks.

Hasan also received criticism from some on the left after stating in a debate on his stream that buying expensive homes is unethical while others live in poverty. Critics pointed to Hasan having purchased a nearly $3 million house himself in West Hollywood in 2021. He defended the move, saying he deserved the fruits of his labor.

FAQs on Hasan Piker Net Worth

What Is Hasan Pikers Current Net Worth?

Hasan Piker has an estimated net worth of around $8 million as of 2023, accumulating wealth through his career in streaming and political commentary.

How Does Hasan Piker Make Money?

Hasan Piker earns income from his popular Twitch channel, YouTube ad revenue, sponsorships, and merchandise sales.

Has Hasan Pikers Net Worth Increased Recently?

Yes, Hasan Pikers net worth has shown an increase, reflecting his growing popularity and viewer base on various digital platforms.

What Factors Influence Hasan Pikers Earnings?

Hasan Pikers earnings are influenced by his viewer counts, subscription numbers on Twitch, YouTube ad revenue, and partnerships with brands.

Final Thoughts

Hasan Pikers financial achievements illustrate the substantial earning potential within the digital content realm. His journey, marked by strategic brand collaborations and an engaged following, showcases the fruits of consistent, quality content.

Whether you aspire to content creation success or are simply a fan, Pikers net worth serves as a striking example of the lucrative possibilities of modern media.
Bombay High Court | Image : Agencies

Every other day there is a fire incident in Mumbai in which people lose their lives, the Bombay High Court said on Wednesday, pulling up the Maharashtra government for dragging its feet on implementation of fire safety rules and regulations.

A division bench of Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Arif Doctor said this was a very very serious issue and no laxness can be accepted.

Fire incidents appear to be on a rise. Every other day in this city there is a fire incident and there are reports of people losing their lives, CJ Upadhyaya said.

The court said it was not its job to keep prompting the government on what steps need to be taken.

This is not done. Are we sitting here to prompt you (the government) for every action? Is this our job? What is all this happening here? CJ Upadhyaya said.

The bench referred to the fire incident that occurred recently in a four-story residential building in south Mumbai, where an 82-year-old woman and her 60-year-old son lost their lives.

The manner in which these two deaths have occurredis this what you (government) want for the people in this cityto lose their loved family members like this? CJ Upadhyaya asked.

Additional government pleader Jyoti Chavan informed the court that an expert committee, formed last year, had in February 2023 submitted its report.
Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday asked the Central government to release Rs 18,171 crore from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) for Karnataka reeling under the impact of a severe drought.

Raising the matter in the House during the Zero Hour, the Congress president said Karnataka is grappling with the most severe drought in 123 years and the damage to crops is estimated at over Rs 35,162 crore. According to him, the damage to crops ranges from 40 to 90 per cent.

Kharge said the state government has sought Rs 18,171 crore from the NDRF to help the affected people.

This financial support is crucial for providing input subsidies, gratuitous relief, and implementing other immediate growth measures due to low rainfall (in Karnataka), the senior Congress leader said.

He further highlighted that water levels in various reservoirs have reached an alarmingly low mark and there may also be a shortage of drinking water in the coming days.

Kharge also spoke about the flood situations in certain parts of Tamil Nadu, including Chennai. He also accused the BJP of not paying heed to the problems being faced by people as they have won elections.

Meanwhile, Amee Yajnik of the Congress raised the issue of womens safety and demanded that all laws concerned should be implemented strictly. She said violence against women in public spaces has a big detrimental effect on the development of a nation and its economy.

Rajya Sabha BJP member Ashok Bajpai highlighted the issues related to the safety and security of on-duty doctors. He said there are about 25 lakh doctors in the country who do a phenomenal job and cited their work during the COVID pandemic.

He suggested that while health is a state subject, the Centre could bring a model law and set up medical tribunals to help doctors facing cases.

Congress MP Rajeev Shukla raised the issue of the plight of undertrials lodged in jails in the country and demanded judicial reforms to deal with the matter. His party colleague Imran Pratapgarhi said the government should focus on improving facilities in trains.
Ingalls Shipbuilding christened the U.S. Navys newest amphibious assault ship, the future USS Bougainville (LHA 8), during dockside ceremonies at the Pascagoula, Miss., shipyard Saturday morning.

(These) ships, like the future USS Bougainville, make our Navy and Marine Corps team a potent fight; providing forward-posture across the globe, ready to respond to crisis and disaster, said Under Secretary of the Navy Erik Raven, the events keynote speaker.

Raven also paid tribute to Ingalls shipbuilders.

I see why the Department of the Navy has enjoyed such a long and successful relationship with this yard, he said. You are special, and together you represent the finest qualities of our great nation. Please remember this and remember that what you do matters. You play a critical role in defending our way of life.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James Adams III also spoke during the ceremony. Adams was nominated in July for promotion to lieutenant general and to serve as commandant for the Marine Corps Programs & Resources, but his promotion is one of hundreds that has been held up by U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, who announced Tuesday he was ending his blockade of those promotions.

Bougainvilles christening symbolizes their enduring legacy  a legacy etched into the very soul of this vessel, Adams said. As was the case with Bougainville, the nation needs modern amphibious ships. They are the cornerstone of our nations global expeditionary crisis response force.

Bougainville is the second ship to be named in honor of Bougainville Island in the Solomons, the site of a World War II campaign in which the Navy, Marine Corps and U.S. allies secured a strategic airfield from the Japanese forces in the northern Solomons, which aided in breaking the Japanese stronghold in the Pacific.

Today is not only a day to celebrate our namesake, representatives of the successful outcome of a World War II campaign, but also the teamwork and collaboration of our United States Navy and Marine Corps that enabled it, said Ingalls president Kari Wilkinson.

To fulfill our mission here in the shipyard, our sailors and Marines serve as a stellar example of how this extended network works together to fulfill a bigger purpose.

Bougainvilles ship sponsor is Ellyn S. Dunford, wife of Gen. Joe Dunford Jr., the 19th chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the 36th Commandant of the Marine Corps.

From naval architects and engineers to welders and the supply team, they experienced their own challenges, including a pandemic, and true to the spirit of those who fought at Bougainville, they all met the challenge with tenacity and overcame each challenge, Dunford said.

Ingalls Shipbuilding has delivered 15 large-deck amphibious ships to the Navy, including the first two in the America class: America (LHA 6) in 2014 and USS Tripoli (LHA 7) in 2020. In addition, Fallujah (LHA 9) is currently under construction at the shipyard.
Slice Pizza & Brew, the Birmingham-based pizzeria known for its selection of pies and craft beer, has announced plans to open a new location in Homewood.

The Birmingham Business Journal reports Slice founders Chris and Jason Bajalieh have partnered with Homewood residents and entrepreneurs J.J. and Whitney Thomas for a new location at 1010 Oxmoor Road.

Slated to open in early 2024, the 4,000-square-foot Homewood restaurant will include a dining area to accommodate nearly 100 patrons, a semi-enclosed patio, a 324-square-foot private dining room and full-service bar, and a kid-friendly zone.

A rendering of the Slice Homewood dining room. (Courtesy, Slice)Slice

We are incredibly excited to officially be bringing Slice Pizza & Brew to the great community of Homewood, Jason Bajalieh told the Birmingham Business Journal. Our neighborhood-centric pizzerias have taken on a life bigger than we could have ever imagined. They are more than just restaurants; they are a place that brings people together and promotes community and the vibrant spirit of the city while serving up a diverse menu and specialty pizzas.

From left, Chris, Jeff and Jason Bajalieh are pictured here at the original Slice Pizza & Brew a few months after the restaurant opened in Birmingham's Lakeview District in 2011.(Birmingham News file/Michelle Campbell) BN FTP

Brothers Chris, Jason, and Jeff Bajalieh opened the first location of Slice Pizza & Brew in 2011. Over the years, the restaurant has racked up the accolades, including a 2013 selection to a list of Americas Hot 100 independent pizzerias. Slice has since opened locations in Vestavia Hills, Crestline, and Montevallo. The upcoming Homewood location will mark the first pizzeria the brothers have opened since the death of Jeff Bajalieh in 2021.

According to the Birmingham Business Journal, J.J. and Whitney Thomas are also developing The Edge, the mixed-use development in West Homewood. Plans for The Edge include locations of Popbar and Baba Java Coffee.
President, tycoons visit port city to console citizens following failed Expo bid

By Lee Min-hyung

President Yoon Suk Yeol pledged, Wednesday, to ensure the smooth progress of three core state agendas in the southern port city of Busan, in a display of consolation to residents there disappointed by the failed bid to host the World Expo 2030.

The agendas include a project to build a new floating airport on Gadeok Island just off the coast of Busan. The two others are the controversial relocation of state-run Korea Development Bank's headquarters from Seoul to Busan and the redevelopment of Busan North Port. Yoon delivered the message Wednesday during a meeting with local residents and business leaders.

I want to express my gratitude to Busan citizens who were eager to attract the global fair, and to businesspeople for sparing no efforts to promote Busans bid for the Expo, Yoon said. Busan should become a southern hub city for the balanced growth of the country. The government will push for the enactment of a special act to turn Busan into a global hub city, so as to speed up our drive for the three key agendas.

A group of ranking government officials also joined the meeting to reaffirm their willingness to support the agendas.

We will open the new airport on time and expand air routes in the southern part of the county, Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Won Hee-ryong said.

The minister of Oceans and Fisheries also pledged to continue building a global logistics cluster in the city, so Busan can transform itself into an international business hub. Busan Mayor Park Heong-joon also presented a set of measures to help turn the southern port city into a global hub.

Leaders of the nations top conglomerates also accompanied Yoon on his visit to Korea's second-largest city. They teamed up with the government for more than a year to bid for the 2030 Expo. But Saudi Arabias Riyadh won a two-thirds majority in the first round of voting last week.

Chaebol tycoons, such as Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong and LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo, joined the meeting to seek ways to activate the regional economy despite the failed bid for the Expo. Others included SK Group Executive Vice Chairman Chey Jae-won, Hanwha Group Vice Chairman Kim Dong-kwan and HD Hyundai Vice Chairman Chung Ki-sun.

Out of the nations top four conglomerates, SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won and Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Chung Euisun, were absent from the meeting due to their overseas business schedules. Federation of Korean Industries Chairman Ryu Jin also represented a local business lobby at the event.

After the meeting, Yoon and the tycoons visited Gukje Market, one of the oldest markets in Busan, and ate traditional street food.
Ezekiel Zeke Hameen, the noted Birmingham chef and restauranteur known for LaVase Fine Foods and Zs Restaurant, died on Dec. 1 at his home in Birmingham, his wife Dr. Carolyn Marzette-Bolivar Hameen told AL.com. He was 89.

Family and friends remember Hameen as a pillar in the community who served people through activism and good food.

Mr. Zeke received many honors for his sacrifice and diligent contributions to our community, Bolivar Hameen said in a statement released on behalf of his family. May his soul rest in peace.

Bolivar Hameen remembers her husband as a staunch community servant who loved music and traveling.

We went everywhere, We supported a lot of groups, a lot of music in the community. Upcoming comedians and all this kind of stuff, Bolivar Hameen said in an interview. Lavell Crawford, I mean, he loved Zeke, let me tell you. When comedians would come into the city, he would take them on a tour.

Ezekiel Zeke Hameen, family and friends pose for a photograph with comedian Jermaine "Funnymaine" Johnson (Courtesy, Dr. Carolyn Marzette-Bolivar Hameen)Dr. Carolyn Marzette-Bolivar Hameen

Ezekiel Zeke Hameen watches musicians perform during Daniel Jose Carr's Tuesday night jazz jam session at True Story Brewing on September 5, 2023 (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart

Ezekiel Hameen was born Ezekiel Davis in Birmingham on Aug. 8, 1934 to Ben and Mattie Davis. Fondly called Zeke, he was the eldest son of four children -- Reatha, Johnnie, and Ernest (fondly called Pop) and younger sister, Ida, nicknamed China.

Hameens family said he learned his work ethic, entrepreneurship, and caring nature from his parents. His father Ben Davis worked for The Birmingham News for 30 years as a printer. His mother Mattie Davis, who had both managerial expertise and a longtime love of cooking, combined those skills to open the familys restaurant in North Birmingham.

Along with working in the family business, one of Zekes first jobs was at The Club, the famous social club on top of Birminghams Red Mountain where he learned to cook from some of the most celebrated chefs in the state while attending Ullman High School.

After graduating from high school, Hameen traveled west to work in California and Texas. In 1967, he returned to Birmingham and married his first wife Barbara Gray. The couple had three children: Latarsha, Korey, and Jedarrie.

In the 60s, Ezekiel Davis joined the Nation of Islam and changed his last name to Hameen. His conversion to the Muslim faith charged him to travel the country to fight racism and oppression, including arranging a group to attend the Million Man March, the 1995 mass meeting of Black men organized by civil rights activists and the Nation of Islam in Washington, D.C. Hameens activism also includes work in unlawful incarceration and prison reform.

Hameen later took a job at Sloss Furnaces as a machinist where he advocated for safer work conditions and protested against the iron producers unfair employment practices. After retiring from Sloss Furnaces after 36 years, he decided to resume his work in the culinary industry full-time and turned his attention to opening restaurants.

He started on 5th Avenue with Your Fish Box.

Hameen and Barbara later opened LaVase Fine Foods Restaurant, which frequently employed culinary students from Lawson State and Virginia Colleges. The restaurant was a gathering place for Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth, dignitaries from the NAACP and numerous civil rights foot soldiers and community activists seeking nourishment and fellowship. The eatery also hosted childrens and school groups since it was close to the BCRI.

He also ran Jabbos, a popular spot for musicians who wanted soul food when they were on the road. He eventually turned LaVase over to his son, who kept the restaurant running for a few more years.

Years after Barbara Hameen died of complications from lupus, Zeke Hameen met writer and counselor Carolyn Marzette-Bolivar in 2004. The pair married in 2006. Hameen and his children would start another restaurant-- Mrs. Bs on Fourth. In 2008, Zeke and Carolyn opened Zs Restaurant on 104 17th St N near Birminghams civil rights district. With the theme healthy food that tastes good, the restaurant became another well-liked dining spot for longtime civil rights leaders and foot soldiers, known for its pork-free fare, range of vegetarian options, and famous bean pies.

The front window of Z's restaurant in downtown Birmingham (Courtesy: Carolyn Bolivar Hameen)

Throughout the years, Zs hosted several musicians and comedians including B.B. King, Mike Epps, Bruce Bruce, and Lavelle Crawford as well as a number of traveling bands and theatrical casts.

Zs Restaurant closed in 2020, one of the thousands of businesses around the county forced to shutter in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

MORE: Its a tough business; Zs Restaurant closes in Birmingham, but legacy lives on

When Bolivar Hameen made the announcement about Zs closure on Facebook, loyal patrons took to the platform to thank the couple for their years of hospitality and wish them blessings.

It was one of Hameens greatest honors to fix a plate from the hot bar for a member of the movement.

Mr. Zeke was able to feed the Foot Soldiers and a lot of the civil rights people, Bolivar Hameen told AL.com in 2020. He just had such a great legacy.

After Zs closed, Zeke Hameen continued to bake pies for friends and family.

He also starred in three film productions directed by Joe Williams the founder of Men In the Kingdom Productions, and co-written by Bolivar Hameen, who runs her own media company, Marzette Media Productions.

Zeke Hameen was a legend to longtime musicians in the city, who frequented Jabbos and LaVase. In turn, hed go out to hear them perform.

He loved music. And we loved to dance, recalled Bolivar Hameen. The past September, the Hameens spent an evening at True Story Brewing listening to jazz during trumpeter Daniel Jose Carrs Tuesday night jam session. On their breaks from the bandstand, Carr, bassist Bernard McQueen, and pianist Willie Jackson Jr. all greeted Zeke warmly. Other musicians sat and chatted with him. Later that night, he and trumpeter Collins Bo Berry hugged and laughed.

Ezekiel Zeke Hameen speaks to a musician during Daniel Jose Carr's Tuesday night jazz jam at True Story Brewing on Sept. 5, 2023 (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart

Dr. Carolyn Marzette-Bolivar Hameen records trumpeter Collins "Bo Berry" onstage at True Story Brewing during the Tuesday night Daniel Jose Carr jazz jam on Sept. 5, 2023. (Shauna Stuart| AL.com)Shauna Stuart

He fed all of them! And Bo! Thats one of his favorite people, said Bolivar Hameen. Mine too. He was always so nice, so polite and so wonderful.

Community and political organizer Clarence Muhammad remembers his first time eating one of Zeke Hameens bean pies-- It was in 1991 on Malcolm X Day at LaVase. He later met Hameen at the mosque Masjidul Quran.

But one of Muhammads fondest memories of Hameem was at Zs. The restaurant had been open less than a year when Kenneth Glasgow, the minister and half-brother of Al Sharpton, called Muhammad to ask for a favor-- he had a busload of people coming into town and they needed a place to eat.

At the time, Zs was a small eatery with a hot bar and small space for eating (the Hameens would later expand the restaurant with a larger banquet room).

Muhammad called Hameen to ask if he could accommodate a crowd.

I said Brother Zeke, Can you handle 50 people? said Muhammad. He said, Yeah! I can handle it!

Hameen didnt initially believe 50 people were on their way to his restaurant. But when Glasgow brought a line of people through the door for breakfast, Hameen was ready to serve them.

It was a big rush for him, said Muhammad. He never forgot that because he was just getting started.

This past April, Muhammad hosted a program honoring Hameen during Ramadan at a community Iftar where Hameen was the guest speaker.

Ezekiel Zeke Hameen (left) and Clarence Muhammad speak during a community Iftar at Muhammad Mosque #69 in Birmingham (Courtesy, Clarence Muhammad)Clarence Muhammad

Ezekiel Zeke Hameen and Clarence Muhammad pose for a photograph during at community Iftar at Muhammad Mosque #69. (Courtesy, Clarence Muhammad)Clarence Muhammad

Hes walking history in terms of being a forerunner and establishing Islam in Birmingham, said Muhammad. He was one of the more influential Muslims in Birmingham that was still living.

Hameen, the former Assistant Minister of Muhammad Temple #69, helped to build the Nation of Islam in Birmingham during the 1960s and 1975.

He was a hard-working businessman and well-respected in the community. He was responsible for bringing in quite a few of the Muslims that would make Birminghams Nation of Islam become a temple or mosque at that time, said Muhammad. He helped to establish that.

Hameens daughter, LaTarsha Jones Robinson, and his granddaughter, Shekayla Jones, are glad Hameen is remembered for both his activism and hard-working, generous spirit.

A lot of people would not have had jobs if it wasnt for my father because of their background. Some of them had things going on in their life. But he always gave people a chance, said Jones Robinson. He taught them how to feed themselves and make money for themselves [by] giving them a job and not giving them a handout. Giving them the tools to make a life. And a lot of people who worked for him really appreciated that.

Ezekiel Zeke Hameen with his family (Courtesy, Dr. Carolyn Marzette-Bolivar Hameen)Dr. Carolyn Marzette-Bolivar Hameen

Almost all of the younger generations of the Hameen family worked their first jobs at one of Hameens restaurants. One of Shekayla Jones fondest memories of her grandfather is standing on a milk crate helping him make bean pies at LaVase Fine Foods and Mrs. Bs on 4th.

Now, shes started a project of trying to preserve the recipe and that story. She recently recorded a video with instructions for how to bake the pie and plans to share the video. While shell keep some of the ingredients a special secret in memory of her grandfather, she looks forward to honoring Hameens legacy through service, food, and a welcoming soul.

A lot of people just stopped to speak with him because he was such a lively person, said Jones. Hes been around so long. I know that he will be missed by everyone.
Former GMA3 co-hosts T.J. Holmes and Amy Robach were taken off-air on Dec. 5, 2022  exactly a year ago  as news of their relationship came to light. Since then, the couple said they have gone through a year of hell.

But we have had each other through it all, Robach said in the debut episode of the couples Amy & T.J. podcast, which dropped Monday. It has been the most beautiful relationship I have had in my life.

The ex-ABC News personalities finally broke their silence on their scandalous romance that rocked Good Morning America last year. In addition to causing a fracture in their professional lives, Robach and Holmes said the fallout also took a toll on their mental health.

Last year, Page Six published a report alleging that the GMA3: What You Need to Know co-anchors had engaged in a months-long affair while they were both still married to their respective partners.

According to Holmes and Robach, thats where news of the relationship started going wrong. The couple spent the entirety of their nearly hour-long episode breaking down the scandal. They said they were both in the process of divorcing their respective partners when reports and Daily Mail images of their alleged affair began circulating on Nov. 30, 2022.

Robach, 50, reportedly finalized her divorce from ex-husband Andrew Shue in March this year. Holmes, 46, and ex-wife Marilee Fiebig filed for divorce a month after the scandal on Dec. 28, 2022. They finalized their divorce in October.

Page Six now reports that Shue, 56, and Fiebig, 46, are dating.

Were told the couple have been dating for about six months after bonding over the traumatic experience of being cheated on, that report states.

Before the scandal broke, Holmes and Robach said they were directly threatened by someone who intended to reveal their relationship, but dismissed the threat. The couple said they also held off on going public with their relationship to protect their families. Robach shares two daughters with ex-husband Tim McIntosh, while Holmes shares a 10-year-old girl with Fiebig.

A day after the reports surfaced, Holmes said he got home from the studio and immediately started pounding vodka for several hours and took numerous weed edibles. Robach said she received concerning texts from Holmes and that their friends and members of the Good Morning America team did not hear back from him.

Robach said she and her father checked on Holmes in his apartment and found him on his bed unresponsive, but alive. You werent moving, and I will never forget that night, she said, before detailing how she had her share of dark days.

There were days I wanted to die, said Robach, a breast cancer survivor. She said that she didnt want to get up and see the new headline about their relationship.

As the Robach-Holmes scandal dominated social media and news, ABC News removed the reporters from the air. Robach said that she warned her bosses that doing so would reignite media interest in the scandal. The network launched an internal review into the hosts off-air relationship in December.

That phone call sealed it, Holmes said. You cant come back from that.

The co-anchors maintained that they did not do anything technically wrong with their workplace relationship, which they intended to disclose before the scandal broke. In January, an ABC News spokesperson confirmed that the former co-anchors had been let go. We all agreed its best for everyone that they move on from ABC News, the rep said. They were replaced by ABC News correspondents DeMarco Morgan and Eva Pilgrim.

Since their ABC News ouster, Holmes and Robach said they have been working on themselves, their relationship and their families. It was a total reset, Robach said. On social media, the ex-GMA personalities have teased their relationship and finally made things Instagram official when they announced their podcast in November.

This was the dream job. We lost those dream jobs and how in the hell can I sit here and say Im in a better place than I was? Holmes asked. That seems impossible, but its true.

It is cathartic and incredible to be able to start to tell it and live it. We have not felt comfortable holding our heads up high walking down the street, but weve started to now, said Robach, who is excited for a new path forward.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

2023 Los Angeles Times. Visit latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Fire swept through a Jefferson County home early Wednesday, leaving one man dead.

Firefighters and sheriffs deputies were dispatched at 6 a.m. to the 7200 block of Taylors Ferry Road in Concord, said sheriffs Lt. Joni Money.

An adult male was found dead inside. His identity has not yet been released.

Money said the Alabama State Fire Marshals Office will be investigating the circumstances surrounding the cause of the fire. No foul play is suspected.
An 11-year-old died after he was shot during a hunting accident in Mississippi, officials say.

It happened just after 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, in southern Jones County, the sheriffs office said in a news release.

Investigators said the boy was hunting rabbits with his 12-year-old sister when she accidentally shot him in the head with a .22-caliber rifle. The siblings stepbrother, 19, was with them at the time, deputies said.

Authorities havent released the childrens names.

The 11-year-old was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries, deputies said. He later died, the Clarion Ledger reported.

The boys organs were donated and may save lives, that report stated.

Deputies didnt release additional information but said the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks is investigating.

Jones County is about 90 miles southeast of downtown Jackson.

2023 The Charlotte Observer. Visit charlotteobserver.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Two people are charged after authorities say they tried to smuggle bolt cutters, night-vision equipment, knives and more into an Alabama prison.

Natalia Ridgeway, 24, and Charles Xavier Marshall, a 46-year-old former ADOC inmate, are charged with attempting to promote prison contraband. Both suspects live in Mobile.

Prison officials said there were two young children in the car with the suspects at the time the alleged crime took place.

Ridgeway and Marshall were arrested Sunday, Dec. 3, at Fountain Correctional Facility in Atmore.

Authorities said a suspicious vehicle had been reported and correctional staff requested prison dogs for assistance.

When the K-9 units arrived, correctional staff had already stopped the vehicle and detained driver Ridgeway and passenger Marshall.

The recovered contraband included 17 cell phones, a pre-paid cell phone card, a pair of wire cutters, black clothing, a night vision monocular, a large hunting knife, a used syringe, phone chargers, two throwing knives and one regular knife.

Both suspects booked into the Escambia County Detention Facility in Brewton.

The investigation is ongoing and further charges may be added.
A Moulton woman has been charged with murder after authorities say she stabbed her husband to death, almost a year to the day after previously stabbing him.

Ashley Latrice Wright was arrested Monday in Mississippi in connection with the Nov. 30 death of Carl Dewayne Jones, 41.

Wright, 25, was taken into custody during a traffic stop in the 600 block of State Street in Clarksdale, Miss., according to Clarksdale police. She was then extradited back to Alabama.

Bond has not yet been set.

According to court documents, Jones was found dead of a chest wound.

According to the Moulton Advertiser, Moulton police, responding to a call at about 8:38 p.m., discovered Jones at the Relax Inn Hotel.

The death happened almost a year to the day after a similar incident was reported. On Dec. 1, 2022, a Wright was arrested at the Relax Inn for allegedly stabbing Jones in the chest with a steak knife. He reportedly suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
People packed the Autauga County Commission chambers Tuesday night in Prattville to take sides in a months-long dispute over the public librarys policies, a disagreement that mostly concerns childrens and teens books with LGBTQ themes.

About 24 people spoke to the five-member commission, and most, about 17, agreed with a group called Clean Up Alabama, which calls for tighter controls at the Autauga-Prattville library on books on sexual orientation and gender identity.

About seven speakers spoke in support of Read Freely Alabama, who formed in response to what they say is an effort by Clean Up Alabama to ban books that express a supportive or affirmative view of people who identify as LGBTQ.

After 90 minutes of comments, with the speakers receiving applause from their respective sides, the county commission appointed three new members to the Autauga-Prattville library board to replace board members who resigned.

Four library board members resigned last week, one week after the county commission made a board appointment without going through the usual procedure of consulting with the board. Two of those members will be replaced by the members appointed Tuesday night. The third appointee from Tuesday night will replace a member who resigned in October for an unrelated reason.

The commission now has four new appointees on the seven-member library board. The Prattville City Council has appointed one member and has two vacancies yet to fill.

County commissioners did not publicly take sides in Tuesday nights debate. They nominated and approved the three new board members with no discussion about their qualifications. The new board appointees did not speak.

The Autauga County dispute is part of a statewide controversy mixing politics with library policies that has involved Gov. Kay Ivey and state library officials.

After the meeting, County Commission Chairman Jay Thompson said he has tried to take a balanced approach. Thompson said the commission received more than 30 resumes for the library board spots, unpaid positions that he said until recently have been held for prolonged terms by a few willing public servants because of a lack of interest.

Angie Hayden, a leader with Read Freely Alabama and others who supported that groups view, said the commission was not transparent about the appointment process and failed to follow a traditional policy of allowing the library board to recommend its new members. Thompson said the former board members did not make any recommendations.

Hayden said she was concerned that the new appointments, which give the commission-appointed members a majority on the library board, would enact policies that exclude books that do not fit what she and other Read Freely supporters described as the narrow viewpoints of Clean Up Alabama. Hayden said the library has never allowed sexually explicit books in the childrens section.

Theres a balance between pleasing the Clean Up Alabama people and also not violating the Constitution, Hayden said. What the Clean Up people really want, however, is for anything that is affirmative of LGBTQ families, like Heather Has Two Mommies, to be taken out of the childrens section. And those are books that are not sexually explicit.

Hayden said the former members of the library board were responsive to concerns about protecting children and teens.

Some who spoke in support of Clean Up Alabama invoked the Bible. One speaker said God established the principle of restricting knowledge with the story of Adam and Eve and forbidden fruit. Some speakers talked about protecting children from what they said were perverted lifestyles.

Others said about half of Autauga County residents are not affiliated with a church and that certain religious viewpoints should not dictate library policy.

Sarah Sanchez, a member of Clean Up Alabama, said the groups mission is to protect children and teens from books with explicit sexual content or sexualized messages. Sanchez said leaders who control library policy must be proactive.

Leaders in our community have been standing by, claiming they have no right to judge what is right or what is wrong when it comes to the innocence of our children, Sanchez told the commission. However, this is not a neutral issue. It is either right or wrong that our taxes are used to purchase such explicit books for our kids. So neutrality is default compliance in the face of this evil.

One example of a childrens book that sparked disagreement is Red: A Crayons Story, by Michael Hall. It is about a blue crayon with a red wrapping.

The crayon book was a transgender allegory, Sanchez told the commission. And theres nothing explicit in it, but it was clearly a picture of a story about maybe youre not really a boy. Maybe youre not really a girl.

Hayden said that illustration shows how Clean Up Alabama is going overboard to restrict books.

I think they are looking so hard to be offended that they are creating things to be offended by, Hayden said. To the point where they are demanding a book about a red crayon wanting to be blue is inappropriate for children.

County Commission Chairman Thompson said he had nothing negative to say about those who have served on the library board.

My viewpoint from the very beginning is that sexually explicit books dont need to be available to minors, Thompson said. And thats kind of what I had asked early on -- is there someway we can make sure a minor cannot pick up a book that they dont need to pick up?

Thompson said he was not sure if those safeguards have been adequate.

It depends on who you ask, Thompson said. I havent personally walked in there and picked up a book, so Im not going to comment either way on that. But I know theres pushback on both sides.

The new appointees named by the commission Tuesday night are Logan Strock, Ray Boles, and Rachel Daniels. The commission earlier appointed Doug Darr. The Prattville City Council appointed Christine Sellers and has two additional appointments to make.

Read more: Amid book challenges, half of Alabama citys library board resigns over unknown candidate

Another Prattville library board member resigns due to commission appointment controversy

Ivey removes library board member who openly criticized possible state funding changes

Alabama Public Service Library board to decide on ALA affiliation in March

Gov. Ivey requests changes to Alabama library rules; $6.6 million state money contingent on policies
Consumers who were deceived by pre-approved credit card offers by Credit Karma can now sign up to get their part of a $3 million settlement, federal regulators said.

The process to file a claim comes after the Federal Trade Commissions 2022 enforcement action against Credit Karma, which alleged the company told consumers they were pre-approved for a credit card or had 90% odds of approval, but in many cases, the consumers didnt qualify.

Consumers who applied incurred a hard inquiry on their credit reports, and, if they were denied, may have damaged their credit scores unnecessarily, the FTC said.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) started a claims process for nearly 500,000 consumers who may be eligible for a payment, the agency said.

The agency said most of the 497,425 affected consumers will get an email, but about 4,000 people who dont have an email address on file will get a notice in the mail.

You can file a claim online at ftc.gov/CreditKarma.

Those with questions can email info@CreditKarmaSettlement.com or call (866) 848-0871, the agency said.

A Credit Karma spokesperson said the organization disagrees with the FTCs allegations and it reached the agreement to put the allegations behind it.

Any implication that Credit Karma rejected consumers applying for credit cards is simply incorrect, as Credit Karma is not a lender and does not make lending decisions, the spokesperson said. Rather, Credit Karma helps our more than 130 million members understand their finances, including their likelihood of approval for financial products.

We have a track record of positive outcomes, and members shopping for credit cards on Credit Karma have a significantly higher approval rate than the national average, the spokesperson said.

The deadline to file a claim is March 4, 2024.
A Breeze Airways flight from Florida to Rhode Island made an emergency landing in Jacksonville when an argument between a couple on board escalated until one mentioned a bomb, the airline said.

Breeze flight 717 was scheduled to fly from Orlando to Providence on Dec. 5 but never made it to its destination, airline spokesperson Gareth Edmondson-Jones told McClatchy News in an email.

Passengers on board said a couple had been arguing before they boarded the plane and the argument continued as the flight took off, WJAX reported.

About 45 minutes into the flight, the argument escalated, the airline said, until it became a perceived security threat.

Other passengers said they overheard the couple mention a bomb, news outlets reported and the airline confirmed.

The guy said Ill tell people you have a bomb in your bag and she said Ill tell them you have weapons on you, passenger Rachel Corrigan told WJAX.

Another passenger, Tanya McGinn, told WJXT the flight staff were alerted to the threat when a father and daughter asked to be moved because they overheard the conversation.

Breeze Airways Flight 717 landed safely at Jacksonville International Airport around 6 p.m. local time on Dec. 5, after the crew reported a passenger disturbance, the Federal Aviation Administration told McClatchy News in an email. The FAA will investigate.

On the ground, the flight was met by FBI agents who investigated the threat and said it was believed to not be credible, WESH reported.

Videos shared by WJXT show the couple being led off the flight in handcuffs, and the outlet reports the couple was arrested.

Ladies and gentlemen, I apologize for messing up your travel plans, the man involved in the argument is heard saying in the video.

The couple is likely facing federal charges and a ban from the airline, the outlet reported.

The rest of the passengers were rescheduled for a flight the next day.

Breeze provided overnight accommodations for all impacted guests and will fly them to their original destination, Providence, (on Dec. 6), the airline said. The flight is expected to depart from Jacksonville at 11:30 a.m. and land in Providence at 3:30 p.m.

2023 The Charlotte Observer. Visit charlotteobserver.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
A felony fentanyl trafficking charge against an Alabama man who was hit with a stun gun while he was handcuffed and face down on the hood of an officers police car has been dismissed.

Micah Washington, 24, still faces three additional charges that stem from his encounter with Reform police Officer Dana Elmore on Saturday, but he is out of jail on bond.

Hes in good spirits but its tough, Washingtons attorney, Leroy Maxwell Jr., told AL.com Wednesday. Hes going through PTSD.

The ordeal began when Washington was changing a flat tire on a Pickens County roadway, not far from his aunts house, Maxwell said. Washington and others were going back and forth to the house to get equipment needed to change the tire when Elmore stopped to question Johnson.

Maxwell said the officer asked him what was going on and asked him for identification. Washington told the officer he was not doing anything wrong, knew his rights and didnt have to provide that information if he wasnt detained.

Washington pulled out his phone to start recording and Elmore used a stun gun on Washington, which caused him to drop to the ground. He was then handcuffed.

What happened next was caught on the now-viral video recorded by one of Washingtons family members.

The video begins with Elmore, identified through charging documents against Washington, ordering Washington stand up after he was handcuffed in the roadway in Pickens County.

She then tells him to lay down on the front of a vehicle, which he does face down.

The officer then holds a stun gun to Washingtons back while she goes through his pockets. She tells him to stay still at which point he says, I aint doing shit, bro. I got a gun right there.

Elmore laughs as she retrieves the gun and says, Oh yea.

She then deploys the stun gun directly into Washingtons back, telling him to shut the (expletive) up as he screams.

Washington then begins to cry, repeatedly saying, Oh my God.

The officer then says, Do you want it again? as Washington continues to cry. Shut your bitch ass up, the officer says.

Thats where the video ended.

Reform police Chief Richard Black and Mayor Melody Davis sent out a statement Monday acknowledging they are aware of the video of Washingtons arrest. Elmore remains on leave with pay.

The department is in the process of turning over all materials related to this arrest to the Alabama State Bureau of Investigation and has requested a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the arrest, the statement said.

Washington was initially charged with trafficking fentanyl, obstructing government operations, resisting arrest and first-degree possession of marijuana.

24th Judicial Circuit District Attorney Andy Hamlin filed a motion to dismiss the fentanyl trafficking charge, which was granted by District Judge Lance Bailey.

According to Hamlins motion, field testing on the substance indicated positive for fentanyl but addition testing failed to confirm the substance as fentanyl.

Washington was released from the Pickens County Jail on Tuesday. He posted this on his girlfriends Facebook page: Thanks for the love & support fr. Its really appreciated. Im just happy to be free.

Maxwell said he plans to file a $20 million lawsuit on behalf of Washington.

These occurrences of excessive force happen every day, Maxwell said. Fortunately, this one was caught on film.

We will not stop working until we clear Micahs name and hold all responsible parties accountable, he said. In addition to abuse of force, we have evidence that false criminal charges were created against Micah.
Chinese e-commerce platform AliExpress said Wednesday it plans to invest 10 billion won ($7.6 million) in Korea over the next three years to better protect the intellectual property rights of Korean brands on its platform.

Ray Zhang, head of the Korean unit of AliExpress, made the remarks as the Chinese e-commerce company has been under fire for allegedly selling counterfeit goods on the platform.

Zhang had been grilled by Korean lawmakers over such allegations during a parliamentary government audit session in September.

Zhang told reporters that AliExpress will set up a Korean-language intellectual property protection portal to offer quality assurance-related services for Korean customers.

He also pledged that products sold on the platform that are deemed counterfeit will be refunded without paperwork.

In addition, AliExpress will create a team tasked with protecting copyrighted Korean brands on the service, Zhang said.

AliExpress has seen its Korean user base more than double to 6.13 million as of October from 2.97 million a year ago, becoming the third-largest e-commerce platform after local platforms Coupang and 11Street.

According to Zhang, AliExpress has deleted 977,151 suspected copyright infringement products from the platform in Korea over the past two months as part of efforts to prevent counterfeit trading on the service.

The number of deleted products during the period is more than twice the some 420,000 counterfeit products discovered in major Korean online shopping malls from 2019 to 2022. (Yonhap)
Alabamas first-ever Republican presidential debate arrives at a time when the headlines about the partys frontrunner are filled with dire warnings about authoritarianism, dictatorship, and vindictiveness against political enemies.

But whether the concerns about the ex-president emerge during todays fourth GOP presidential debate at the University of Alabama are unknown. Experts believe the moderators and, especially, the candidates will avoid biting criticism about the ex-president who enjoys a commanding lead in polling.

Theres no limit on the number of topics the candidates should discuss, but it seems unlikely that the conversation will approach those issues in the debate, said Soren Jordan, an associate professor of political sciences at Auburn University.

He added, Im not sure any of the candidates will be anxious to criticize Trump. This is still the state where his approval rating is highest of all the states. The real question is how you differentiate yourself as a candidate without alienating Trump voters. Im not sure any particular candidate has a good read on that.

No-show

Trump will not be at todays debate, unless he makes a captivating last-minute decision to swing by the Frank Moody Music Hall to reunite on the debate stage with Megyn Kelly, one of the three moderators during the debate that will broadcast from 7-9 p.m. on NewsNation. Trump and Kelly famously clashed in a 2015 debate over a question about Trumps temperament toward women.

Kelly requested on Tuesday that Trump show up for the debate, and there have been some hints that the ex-president might make a surprise appearance. Last month, the U.S. Secret Service conducted a security sweep of the Music Hall, raising speculation that Trump might make a showing despite his campaign team telling media outlets that he would not be there.

Trump, himself, also has ties with NewsNation executives, notably Sean Compton, the Nexstar executive overseeing the cable TV network who he called a winner at everything he does in a 2020 Tweet.

Some political observers believe the GOP debate, sans Trump, wont be much of a showing. Former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis are trailing Trump badly in the polls and seem to be vying against each other as the alternative candidate to the ex-president, experts note. Two other GOP hopefuls  entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie  will be debate participants but are also trailing far behind in polling.

Under current circumstances, such debates sans Trump would not fill up a high school auditorium because Trump is not only the leading candidate, but in Alabama the only GOP candidate, said historian Wayne Flynt, a former professor at Auburn. Were he to attend  which he wont, because that would lend credibility to his opponents  it would fill up Jordan-Hare Stadium (in Auburn) with 85,000 seeking blood.

Political strategy

Kay Iveys podium stands vacant at the Alabama Republican gubernatorial debate hosted in 2018 in Birmingham by Reckon by AL.com and ABC 33/ 40. (Joe Songer, jsonger@al.com)

Trumps approval rating in Alabama was among the highest in the country before he left office in early 2021. The deep red state has since welcomed the ex-president back on several occasions, most recently during a state Republican Party meeting in early August in Montgomery.

But Trumps debate snub shouldnt be a surprise to Alabamians, especially Republicans. Its a tried and true political strategy that has found a favorable root in Alabama. Ahead of the 2018 and 2022 governors races, current Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey shunned all political debates despite criticism from her opponents both Republican and Democrat.

Avoiding debates did nothing to harm Iveys political standing. Her polling never took a hit, and the governor easily rolled to primary wins in both 2018 and 2022 without needing a runoff.

I understand the interest in the debate, but Trump is playing it smart like Kay Ivey does, said Jonathan Gray, a Mobile-based Republican Party strategist who helped run Scott Dawsons Republican candidacy for governor in 2018 against Ivey. There was a discussion that we cannot beat up on each other because the candidate we are running against is not here. Those candidates understood that you couldnt frivolously throw stuff at Kay Ivey. And when the favorite choice is not there, why tune in?

Gray said the key for the presidential candidates on stage tonight is to find a way to generate headlines themselves that survive an entire news cycle and avoid Trump dominating the discussion.

Someone has to come out of this debate being talked about other than Donald Trump, Gray said. Any of them or all of them need to be talked about after this debate in a way that changes the news cycle to not be about Donald Trump. If they can get one news cycle about them, that is a W.

Sleepwalking to Dictatorship

Vice Chair Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., speaks as the House select committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, holds a hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022.AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite

Lately, the headlines have all been about Trump, and the narrative has been about the potential dangers a Trump return to the White House will bring to U.S. democracy.

Two notable moments in the past week:

The Atlantic Magazine published a special edition of its monthly magazine focused on what a second Trump term would look like, accusing the former president of preparing to weaponize the federal government. Jeffery Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, told CNN he felt a second Trump term poses a threat to the existence of America as we know.

Liz Cheney, the conservative former member of the U.S. House from Wyoming and daughter to former Vice President Dick Cheney, told CBS on Sunday that she feared the U.S. was sleepwalking into a dictatorship if Trump is elected president. She also has said that she fears Trump, if elected, will remain in power beyond the next four years in office.

Will concerns about the democracy even surface during a GOP primary debate? Skeptics abound.

My personal view is it would be important for more Republicans to push back against the lets say, more problematic tendencies sometimes displayed by the former president, said Regina Wagner, assistant professor of political sciences at the University of Alabama. I unfortunately think it is unlikely they will due to the strong support Trump continues to enjoy from the base.

Jaclyn Bunch, associate professor of political sciences at the University of South Alabama, said that scholars are unified on their concerns that threats to democracy should be addressed by Republicans.

She referred to an October article in The Economist which details how a MAGA makeover of state parties in swing states is driving away donors.

Overall, if the Republican Party wishes to strengthen its position in the long term, addressing the vocal radical extreme must be a top priority, Bunch said. Apart from donations, a prevalent lack of faith in democracy has the potential to erode the foundations of our country, threatening the safety and longevity of the United States from within. There is also increased evidence that authoritarian rhetoric and anti-democratic trust is alienating the new generation of Republican voters.

Delicate dilemma

Republican presidential candidate former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie speaks during a Republican presidential primary debate hosted by NBC News, Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023, at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)AP

Aaron Kall, director of debate for the University of Michigans Debate Program, said he anticipates the four candidates to mostly again stay clear of Trump. He noted that past efforts to criticize Trump during a debate  notably, Christies suggestions that Trump should be disqualified from being President during the first GOP debate in Milwaukee in August  drew loud boos.

The moderators wont talk about Trump much because they dont want to reward him for not participating in the debate, Kall said. The candidates are free to pivot back to Trump whenever they wish, but theyve largely avoided doing this out of fear of alienating voters they need to win the Republican primary.

Kall noted how no one has been able to successfully navigate this delicate dilemma.

I dont expect them to magically figure it out before Wednesday night, he said.

The lack of criticism directed at Trump or efforts to chip away at his commanding polling lead is also prompting the question from experts: Whats the point?

What are we trying to win here? Gray said. The race seems to be about DeSantis and Haley (for the alternative to Trump). But the question is, What race? Is there someone who doesnt believe Donald Trump will not get the Republican nomination at this point?

Gray said there is no guarantee that even if Trump is convicted of a crime  he faces 91 charges across four criminal cases that include, among other things, his activities surrounding the 2020 election and Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the Capitol  he will be kicked off ballots, elevating the No. 2 running Republican in the field.

I understand that in this day and age to millions of people, it will be unfathomable that a man convicted of crimes could be elected President of the United States, Gray said. But if those (voters) believe hes being persecuted, its likely he could get elected. And to Republicans, (there is a view that) this is nothing short of a full-throated political persecution.

Ahead of the debate, NewsNation/Decision Desk HQ News released a poll that showed a majority of survey respondents  57% -- support disqualifying Trump from the ballot if hes convicted in one or more of the criminal cases. There are sharp partisan differences  only 29% Republicans support his disqualification, compared to 85% of Democrats.

Trumps lead in the polling hasnt been affected from the criminal cases, or from the debate no-shows. After last months debate, polling showed very little bump for Haley, who was considered the clear winner.

With each debate, Trumps lead in national and early state polling has only increased despite some solid performance delivered specifically by Haley and DeSantis, Kall said. During debates, candidates often focus their ire against opponents in their sightlines on stage and forget the real target they need to attack may actually be thousands of miles away.
Federal funding for K-12 schools rose dramatically during the pandemic, accounting for most of the increased spending on students according to the most recent spending data from the Alabama Department of Education.

Though state funding still makes up the bulk of spending in schools, federal spending rose from $1 billion during the 2018-19 school year to $1.6 billion in 2021-22, a 58% increase. During the same time period, state spending rose from $4.8 billion to $5.2 billion, an 8% increase.

The number of schools who used federal funding for more than a third of spending overall jumped from 14 schools in 2019 to 90 schools in 2022.

That could mean big problems for schools when federal pandemic relief funding runs out, which will happen at the start of the 2024-25 school year. Less federal funding means fewer services and personnel. And those cuts will need to be made before the next school year starts.

And some districts rely more heavily on federal funding than others. Federal spending in Barbour County, for example, made up 40% of spending in 2021-22, where it was 25% of their spending in 2018-19, pre-pandemic. Seven other school districts - five traditional and two charter schools - had federal spending make up 30% or more of their spending in 2021-22.

Federal spending made up 20% to 30% of spending in 76 other school districts, where only 16 districts had federal spending make up 20% or more of all spending in the 2018-19 school year.

Statewide, federal spending made up 20% of student spending, up from 14% in 2018-19. State spending dropped to 63% from 66%, and local spending dropped to 14% from 17% in 2018-19.

Alabama schools spent a total of $8.2 billion on students in 2021-22, up 4% from the $7.8 billion spent in 2020-21 and up 13% from the $7.3 billion spent in 2018-19.

A simple way to compare spending is to look at how much is spent on each student, known as per pupil spending. The chart below shows how spending changed over a four-year period, broken down by the source of spending.

The other category includes money spent that came from a source other than local taxes or state and federal funding.

School officials like to have local taxes available because those funds typically have fewer restrictions and strings. State funding is earmarked for particular uses and federal funding has a lot of regulations and reporting requirements.

Local money is typically used to offer a wider range of educational and extracurricular activities - extras that arent funded by the state or the federal government. Local money is also used to pay teachers above the states required minimum salary as a way to attract and retain teachers.

Local money can also be used to add staff to full grades and reduce class sizes, something that is often needed in the middle grades.

As expected, Alabamas 150 school districts - 139 traditional and 11 charter schools - have a wide range of spending. The chart below shows Alabamas 10 school districts that spent the highest total per student during the 2021-22 school year. Click here if you are unable to see the table.

The spending data is also broken down by school. The range at the school level is even wider.

Schools that educate and care for children with significant disabilities spend the most per student, anywhere between $42,000 and $163,500 per student.

Among non-specialized schools, the school that spent the highest amount per student was Lee Countys Loachapoka High School at $32,676 per student. The lowest amount spent per student was Chickasaw Citys Alabama Destinations Career Academy at $760 per student

Overall, virtual schools spent the least amount with a median of $4,730 per student.

Middle schools by and large spent the lowest amounts per student, though there certainly are exceptions. Middle schools tend to have the largest class sizes, at 30-plus students in some places, according to state officials. Thats because the state provides funding for fewer teachers in grades four through eight than for elementary and high school students.

Click here to see a guide from the department of education with the details of how the state allocates school funding.

The table below shows the amount school officials spent per student during the 2021-22 school year. The amount is calculated by taking the total amount spent at the school and dividing by the number of students in the school. Narrow the list by typing the name of a district or a school in the search box.

Click here if you are unable to see the table.

Data was not included for 13 traditional school districts and two charter schools - a total of 80 schools overall - because their financial reports were not approved by the time the state department ran the report in June.

The department is working to add the data, according to an official.

AL.com has requested spending data for those districts and will update the table when the data is received.
Alabama Sen. Katie Britt acted as an intermediary in bringing the impasse over Sen. Tommy Tubervilles nine-month blockade of military promotions to an end Tuesday, according to a report.

Punchbowl News is reporting that Britt served as a conduit between Tuberville, his critics and members of the Republican leadership. The report cites sources familiar with her role.

Britt, seen as a rising star in the Senate, made clear she wanted to show support for her fellow Alabamian while also working to resolve the impasse, writes Andrew Desiderio.

Attempts to reach Britt for comment were not immediately successful.

Last month in Montgomery, Britt spoke about her concerns, saying, First, we have to protect life.

I come from a military community, Britt said on Nov. 3. I am from Enterprise, right outside the gates of now Fort Novosel (previously Fort Rucker). So I have seen the importance of our service men and women and their families.

So, it is a priority of mine, to figure out how we put them in the best place possible. So that means continuing the conversation within our conference, which is what Im going to do to try to get a resolution and be able to get these people confirmed and make sure that we protect life. So, were working on that right now.

Tuberville on Tuesday brought an end to the blockade, allowing roughly 440 promotions to proceed toward confirmation by the Senate.

About damn time, said Sen. Mark Kelly, an Arizona Democrat who is a former astronaut and Navy captain.

About 14 four-star officers promotions are still on hold. Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., urged Tuberville to lift the holds on all the nominees, claiming the standstill hurt America.

Tuberville began the blockade back in February in response to the Pentagons policy of allowing travel expenses to military members seeking abortions in states where it remains legal. In recent weeks, Republicans in the Senate had grown more critical of the hold, saying it was affecting readiness.

Democrats were pushing for a rule change to allow the promotions to go forward in one block.

Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) said the issue was beginning to roil the Republicans between those who supported Tuberville and others who were concerned at how the blockade was impacting morale.

There were a number of people who were attacking those of us who were trying to find an actual solution as not being conservative enough, Ernst said. We are some of the most pro-life senators. We were trying to find a way to reverse the policy and not impact our military readiness.

Thats what bothered so many of us, is that were holding 450 (nominees) at this point that had nothing to do with the policy. Nobody can tell me thats the right thing to do.
Birmingham Water Works employees delivered a vote of no confidence in senior management, saying that morale has dipped to an all-time low at Alabamas largest water utility.

The Birmingham Water Works Employee Association delivered a letter last week to all eight board members detailing several grievances regarding inequity in discipline, promotions, and salaries.

In the letter obtained by AL.com this week, members said their vote of no confidence was a last resort, a step they took with great hesitation after much discussion and contemplation.

The letter, signed by Derrick Maye, the chair of the employee association, accuses senior managers of leading an agency where employees fear for their jobs.

Under this Executive Staff, morale has plummeted to depths never seen before, the letter states. In spite of potential overt or subtle retaliation, we are willing to pay the price for what we know is the right thing for the employees and customers.

The letter lamented the leadership of General Manager Michael Johnson, Assistant General Manager Derrick Murphy, Chief Financial Officer Iris Fisher, and Human Resources Manager Paul Lloyd.

Employees said the agency practices inconsistent discipline among employees including some instances in which workers are unfairly penalized or fired. The water works has about 600 employees and serves about 770,000 customers in Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Blount, and Walker counties.

We believe the inconsistencies are based on racial and preferential bias. Disciplinary results are written and executed not according to company policies; they are written and executed based upon emotion and attachment, Maye wrote.

Rick Jackson, spokesman for the Water Works Board, told AL.com in a statement that executive leadership will meet with employees to discuss issues raised in the letter and seek a timely resolution.

Jackson noted that the utility meets regularly with association members and said the leadership takes employee concerns seriously.

We believe that open and transparent communication is crucial in addressing these issues effectively, Jackson said. Our goal is to find opportunities to meet the needs of our employees and ensure that BWW remains a great place to work.

In the letter, Maye said he received an evasive response from Johnson when he attempted to get data regarding disciplinary actions among staff and a racial breakdown of those workers.

Maye declined to comment when contacted by AL.com on Tuesday.

The letter from the employee association also said the utilitys new pay scales are unfair, benefiting the highest paid employee at a greater level than lower wage workers.

Jackson said that during the past year, the water works implemented several to enhance its employee culture, including improvements to its salary structures to provide competitive salaries, initiatives to retain employees and recruitment of new talent.

It is important to note that we take employee concerns and the employee associations role seriously. We will handle internal matters internally to protect the confidentiality of our employees, Jackson said. This approach is intended to create a safe and trust-based environment where employees can openly discuss their concerns without fear of reprisal.

This isnt the first time Water Works employees have taken a vote of no confidence. Workers in 2005 issued a similar letter of grievance, citing eroding morale and concerns about the HR department.
President Biden on Tuesday praised the Senate for confirming 425 military nominations Tuesday evening after Sen. Tommy Tuberville lifted his pointless and politically motivated holds on the posts.

I hope no one forgets what he did, Biden said in a statement, referring to the holds put in place by Alabamas senior senator for 10 months over a Defense Department policy reimbursing service members travel expenses for abortions.

These confirmations are long overdue, and should never have been held up in the first place, Biden said. Our service members are the backbone of our country and deserve to receive the pay and promotions they have earned. In the end, this was all pointless.

Tuberville and his Republican colleagues in the Senate who supported the senators tactic, Biden said, needlessly hurt hundreds of servicemembers and military families and threatened our national security  all to push a partisan agenda.

The military and their families deserve better, the president continued.

Thankfully, military leaders will finally be able to take their next post. Military families who for months have been in limbo will finally be able to make plans to move, start new jobs, and enter new schools, he said. Our servicemembers and military families put everything on the line for our country. I thank the Senate for quickly confirming these appointments and urge them to confirm the remaining appointees swiftly.

The 425 approved nominations came after Tuberville abandoned his nearly yearlong hold on the appointments on Tuesday.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer teed up the military confirmations for a vote just a few hours after Tuberville emerged from a closed-door lunch with fellow GOP senators and told reporters hes not going to hold the promotions of these people any longer. He said holds would continue, however, for about 11 of the highest-ranking military officers, those who would be promoted to what he described as the four-star level or above.

Tuberville claimed the standstill ended in a stalemate.

It was pretty much a draw. They didnt get what they wanted, we didnt get what we wanted. When they change the rules, its hard to win...Its unfortunate the American people didnt get a voice, he said Tuesday.

Tuberville has made several comments over the last few weeks about possible ways to end the blockade, while Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., promised to bring a resolution to the floor in coming weeks that would allow hundreds of promotions to proceed through a rule change.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Presidential candidate and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy spoke to Alabama Republicans on Tuesday night at the Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge hotel, a day ahead of a debate set for Wednesday night in Tuscaloosa.

What does it mean to be an American? Ramaswamy said. To me it means we believe in the ideals of the American revolution, the ideals that set this country into motion 250 years ago, ideals like meritocracy, and pursuit of excellence, that we get ahead in this country not by the color of our skin but on the content of our character. Thats why I said well end affirmative action and race-based quotas in every area of American life.

Ramaswamy will be one of four Republican presidential candidates on stage Wednesday night for the fourth Republican debate, to be held at Moody Music Hall on the University of Alabama campus. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley.

Former President Donald Trump, with a wide lead in the polls, has opted to skip the debates so far.

The two-hour debate will start at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 6, moderated by NewsNations Elizabeth Vargas, SiriusXM host Megyn Kelly, and Eliana Johnson, editor-in-chief of The Washington Free Beacon. It will air on The CW Network, which is WTTO Channel 21 in Birmingham, and on The NewsNation web site.

See also: Altamont student asks presidential candidate for advice on woke-ism before debate
There is an obvious explanation as to why college students engage in atrocity denialism at pro-Palestinian marches.

They are (well) clueless, and devoid of all rational thinking. The students arent shy about expressing their blissfully ignorant critique of Hamas as liberators, and their creepy foray into painting the dark side of evil -- the slaughter and torture of innocent civilians in Israel -- as necessary.

Parents dont have to wonder whats happening with their kids expensive education, they can watch the academic dumpster fire on social media. There isnt a shortage of embarrassing outtakes of the privileged millennials who are passionate about their pro-Palestine cause and at the same time prove themselves to be passionate know-nothings.

If youve missed the most absurd outtakes, I regard you as lucky. Still, a brief overview may be in order to gain perspective on how unhinged our morally challenged youth have become as they allow themselves to become part of the herd.

Let us start with the more amiable students, and work our way down to the unabashed Israelophobes and Jew haters.

Wearing a bright smile, a male student was asked to explain the catchy phrase on his placard that reads: From the river to the sea -- Palestine will be free. This slogan was and continues to be widely recycled among thousands of protestors, and hardly serves as a new propaganda tool.

What river are you talking about? asked an unidentified interviewer. The question hangs in the air for several seconds. Could the student really be so mind-numbingly ignorant as to not know the incendiary message behind the phrase? I know the name of the sea, he offered. Its the Mediterranean.

Perhaps the student should receive partial credit. He turns to his buddy, hoping for a bailout. Such bailouts are a sign of the times in the form of big-fat-government packages, but one is not forthcoming here.

There is more ground to cover and the interviewer moves on.

What do you think of Hamas slaughtering and raping innocent Israeli citizens? asked the interviewer of another student. She doesnt flinch at the thought of supporting Hamas modern-day pogrom campaign. The assault on Oct. 7, she claims, wasnt properly investigated, and its hard to know whats true.

Isnt she concerned about supporting a terrorist regime? asked the interviewer. One persons terrorist is another persons freedom fighter, she adds

Sounding like a cheerleader for Hamas terrorists, she has taken the first step into the propaganda wars of normalizing savagery. The internet is fertile hunting ground for any student who wishes to build up an arsenal of denial and support the indiscriminate slaughter of innocent civilians.

Nazi propaganda minister Joseph Goebbels could not have been more convincing than Hamass mouthpieces in the West -- which relieves the Islamic organization of taking any responsibility for the atrocities committed on Oct. 7.

Im shown video clips, and them Im also told that theyre beheading babies, claimed Farhan Siddiqui, imam of the Dar Al-Hijrah Mosque in Washington, D.C. Im also told that theyre raping women And when I go and I investigate these specific reports I found out that theyre all lies. Plenty of artful denials can be found and traced to such reliable sources as imams, brain-addled professors and DEI squads funded by your tax dollars.

This denialist narrative is gaining traction among the impressionable college students nationwide: They dont appear to have difficulty distinguishing reality for a simulation of reality because they have no wish to venture beyond their political safe space.

Elliot Tebele, the founder of the viral Instagram account f-ckjerry, gathered extremely candid comments by going undercover at a pro-Palestinian rally to interview protestors. How would you describe a Jew? Tebele asked a demonstrator in London.

Theyre devils, he answered. So if they (terrorists) do take Palestine, where do the 12 million Jews go? Treble asked another protestor. They can go to hell responded the protestor.

American students are more squeamish about the endgame proposed by Hamas, with more than one suggesting the Jews could be resettled where they came from. Quite a few came from Judea and Samaria area, now the West Bank, and would have difficulty resettling in that hostile region. Although it has their name on it. The actual identity of one large swath of Israels multicultural population and where they came from would come as a real shocker to the historically illiterate students. Hundreds of thousands of Jews were expelled from Arab lands and would naturally wish to avoid the Islamic-fascist regions infiltrated by terrorist group (i.e. Yemen, Jordan, Egypt, Syria, and even Iran, which considers itself non-Arab).

Life can be so simple for students who dont need to worry about being the next target on Hamass list of infidels. Or do they? Many of the students -- who become unhinged if they are misgendered -- would be horrified to learn that Hamass Caliphate goal is to destroy the infidel worldwide, which would include those pink-haired, tattooed, and gender fluid class of know nothings.

Image: Montecruz Foto
Parents efforts to assert their fundamental right to direct the care and upbringing of their minor children in the face of public schools relentless efforts to lure and indoctrinate vulnerable children into gender confusion are at a critical juncture. In multiple state and federal lawsuits, parents are making compelling constitutional and factual arguments against ludicrous claims by progressive school districts and states that the schools must protect the fabricated right of minors to change their sex by withholding parental notification.

At the same time, the aggressive and sometimes violent demonstrations following Hamass October 7 attack on Israelis have awakened many previously oblivious Americans to the realization that the progressive agenda is unmoored and dangerous extremism.

As litigation progresses into 2024, the righteousness of parents legal position, coupled with growing public fears of the consequences of progressive ideologies, may combine to topple sex change indoctrination. The policy decisions of progressive politicians and unelected bureaucrats will be detailed in court and exposed as well beyond the boundaries of established educational practices.

There are now federal lawsuits pending in New Jersey, Massachusetts, and California, and state-level actions in New Jersey and California. Parents are arguing 14th Amendment due process rights, while the states are asserting civil rights of minors.

The federal lawsuits have the Constitution, millennia of Judeo-Christian heritage of the unparalleled importance of the family as the essential building block of civil society, and a long history of Supreme Court rulings affirming the liberty interests of parents. In contrast, the states offer a specious defense that it is necessary to withhold information to protect a child from parents who might disapprove of a minors gender change, while at the same time disingenuously claiming that the state respects the need for parents to be informed about their children.

The current state of litigation illustrates the strength of parents fundamental liberty interests to direct the care, custody, and control of their childrens health care. There is a wealth of Supreme Court decisions supporting the right of parents to make decisions for their minor children, most importantly Troxel v. Granville, in which Justice Sandra Day OConnor wrote, The interest of parents in the care, custody and control of their children  is perhaps the oldest of the fundamental liberty interests recognized by the Court.

In Massachusetts, an appeal on the 14th Amendment due process argument (Foote v. Ludlow School Committee) was argued in October 2023 at the First Circuit Court after a District Court judge refused to consider the due process argument in a December 2022 ruling.

The parents allege that the school district actively encouraged their 11-year-old daughter to be a boy. After their daughter told her parents of her interest in being a boy, the parents informed the district that they, not school personnel, would address her health care issues. Instead, under district policy, school personnel met privately with the girl, affirmed a male identity, encouraged her to use the boys bathroom, and instructed everyone at school to address the child as a boy. All of this was hidden from the parents until a teacher told the couple what was occurring. The teacher was subsequently fired.

The position of the school district is that they acted in accordance with state guidelines and have no duty to inform parents about many issues involving students in their daily care, including changes in sexual identity. The school district said the child had no medical condition, which would have required parental permission to administer care, such as Tylenol for a headache, as required under state law.

A similar fact pattern emerged in an October lawsuit filed in southern New Jersey, where a father of three high school students sued the state Department of Education (DOE), the Cherry Hill Board of Education, and the school district in U.S. District Court over the school districts policy to withhold information about a students decision to change sexual identity. The father wants the court to declare as unconstitutional the New Jersey Transgender Student Guidance for School Districts as merely a model policy with no basis in statute.

The details of the case illustrate how ideologues can stretch laws meant to protect vulnerable groups well beyond the boundaries of their original intent. In 2017, then-governor Chris Christie signed a bill to set guidelines to assist schools in establishing policies to ensure a supportive and nondiscriminatory environment for transgender students. The following year, the state DOE issued a guidance policy that school districts may not disclose a students transgender status except as allowed by law.

The Cherry Hill lawsuit states that the governing statutory framework and its attendant legislative intent never contemplated the removal of parents from the conversation regarding transitioning or transgender students.

According to the lawsuit, students are invited on a continuing basis to have confidential discussions with school district personnel on the subject of gender, chosen name, pronouns, and students preferences regarding parental notification. The policy allows schools to maintain separate records for students  one for the parents and another for internal consumption. It is easy to conclude that the school districts may be encouraging students to change sexual identity through repetitive suggestion, explicitly without parental knowledge, and then hiding it under an elaborate system of double-bookkeeping.

Theres more. In September, a Southern District of California judge issued a preliminary injunction against the Escondido Union School District against a school policy that allowed teachers to lie about students gender identity and preferred pronouns to parents.

Challenges to legislation enacted by right-leaning and swing states to prevent medical or surgical interventions are not going well for the transgender activists. The Sixth Circuit upheld statutory bans in Tennessee and Kentucky earlier this year. On November 6, the Biden administration took the side of the transgender activists, saying that such bans violate minors 14th Amendment rights to gender-affirming care.

In contrast, litigation at the state level is not going as well.

California is coming down hard on two districts, Murrieta Valley and Chino Valley, where school boards passed policies requiring parental notification of any change in a childs preferred gender. The state Department of Justice has launched a civil rights probe into Chino. In a letter to the district, the state superintendent of schools claims that the districts are violating state law, without specifying the statute.

To provide a statute, the California legislature passed AB 957 this summer to change the states standard of well-being of a minor to include parental affirmation of gender transitioning, making parental opposition a statutory offense. The measure passed the Senate and Assembly by wide margins. Governor Gavin Newsom, with an eye on running for president, vetoed it in September.

In New Jersey, the states Division of Civil Rights has filed complaints against school boards in Middletown, Matalan-Englishtown, and Marlboro for having the temerity to require that their district schools notify parents of expressions of interest in another sexual identity. Unfortunately, the New Jersey school boards are likely to be shot down by the state courts. The judge handling the case has temporarily blocked parental notification pending further legal developments.

In another case in Hanover Township, a Superior Court judge in October stopped the district from notifying parents about changes in gender identification, saying the policy could force personnel to violate the states anti-discrimination laws. New Jerseys attorney general has filed a civil rights complaint against the district.

The fight at the state level is complicated by the fact that progressive states laid the groundwork by putting in place guidance policies recommending that schools withhold information from parents if the child does not want the parents to know about his or her gender transitioning, cross-dressing, or change of name. Prevailing at the state level is also made more difficult by liberal politicians, their appointees to state education boards, and the judges who depend upon the support of these politicians.

The school districts spin is that minors have the right to change sexual identities and schools have a duty to protect the minors from their disapproving parents. That weak rationale is crumbling as evidence mounts that counseling by school personnel is systematic pressure. In fact, withholding information about sexual identity is the exception to most school policies concerning student health, conduct, and interpersonal relations.

These cases are destined for the Supreme Court, which will weigh the longstanding Judeo-Christian tradition of parental rights to control the care and education of their children against the risible rationale that school personnel must protect transitioning minors from disapproving parents. Indeed, most parents believe that transitioning is a contrived and potentially dangerous construct that has no place in public education. Common sense holds that parents, not the state, have the best interests of their progeny in mind and have a multitude of reasons for ensuring their health and well-being.

It is a sad commentary on our once-envied public educational system that public opposition to the progressive-backed transgender movement, rather than poor instruction, declining test scores, and worsening student discipline, may be the catalyst for a long-overdue overhaul of the American public school system.

Linda R. Killian is a retired financial analyst and a local Republican chairman.

Image via Pxfuel.
By Ko Dong-hwan

POSCO International has sealed deals with an American electric vehicle (EV) maker and a French fuel cell vehicle maker to supply critical manufacturing parts until 2032, highlighting the firm's presence in the global EV market, according to the company, Wednesday.

The firm recently signed a 300 billion won ($228 million) deal with the United States' major EV maker to supply speed reducers. The firm said that the importance of a speed reducer has been renewed and demand is currently on the rise in the international EV market.

Under the deal, POSCO will deliver the parts in a series of shipments starting next year until 2032.

The company said it has already expanded its U.S. supply market for permanent magnets and shafts to strengthen its local value chain for the EV motor system. A permanent magnet and shafts are part of four key components of the rotor that, together with the stator, makeup two main parts of an EV driving motor.

The company has also signed a 100 billion won deal with French car maker Hyvia to supply power converters for fuel-cell vehicles. It is the first time that POSCO has signed a supply deal with a global hydrogen car maker.

Under the deal, POSCO will begin shipping parts for new models of Hyvia, a joint venture of France's Renault and America's Power Plug, in 2025.

POSCO has secured a series of deals thanks to its "preemptive strategic direction towards eco-friendly mobility," according to the company.

"We had targeted and invested in the industry in advance," said an official from the company. "By 2027, we expect our performance in the eco-friendly mobility market will surpass that of internal combustion engines."

The company, last October, built a driving motor core factory in Mexico and plans to build a second one in the first half of next year. Fabricated parts from the two plants will help to complete some 7 million EVs each year, 5 million of which, will be exported. With the expansion, the company expects its production will allow the business to reach 10 percent of the global market for driving motor cores, another main component of rotors.

"Our goal is to supply for global top-tier companies," said the official. "We will form partnerships with small to medium-sized local companies with outstanding technologies to create better products and, if necessary, erect new factories in North America as well."
On November 30, Texas attorney general Ken Paxton (yes, the same one the left has been trying to oust for a long time, who recently was impeached but was acquitted on all charges) filed a lawsuit on behalf of the state of Texas against Pfizer for misrepresenting the performance of its COVID-19 vaccine by false, deceptive, and misleading acts and practices in the course of trade and commerce. The suit was covered in the Epoch Times and American Greatness. Here is a link to the actual 54-page suit, filed in district court in Lubbock County. I read it so you dont have to (well, if you trust me).

For the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine clinical trial, eligibility was limited to those who had not previously been infected with COVID-19. The trial counted how many in the vaccine group vs. placebo group caught symptomatic COVID-19 (with a positive test). When we talk about risk reduction for this trial, we mean in catching the virus as defined above due to being vaccinated.

Before proceeding, we need to review Efficacy 101. The math is not that complicated  in fact, it is rather intuitive, yet it is almost never spelled out to the public. Let V = the probability that someone Vaccinated catches symptomatic COVID-19; U = the probability someone Unvaccinated and given a placebo catches symptomatic COVID-19; and E = efficacy. (Technically, efficacy is the term used for results in a clinical trial, and effectiveness is the term used for results among the general public, but they are often used interchangeably.) Then

E = (U-V)/U.

The numerator, U-V, is the absolute risk reduction (ARR). E is the relative risk reduction (RRR)  that is, the risk reduction due to being vaccinated compared to being unvaccinated. We can also write the equation as E = 1  V/U. Another measure is the number needed to treat (NNT) to prevent one additional bad outcome  in this case, one additional patient with symptomatic COVID-19. NNT = 1/ARR, the ceiling of 1/ARR  that is, the least integer greater than or equal to 1/ARR.

Ideally, the public should be informed of all three: the RRR, the ARR, and the NNT. If the ARR is very small (see my previous article for an example of this), and thus the NNT is large, you might not want to risk vaccination even if the RRR is large. The suit accuses Pfizer of misrepresentation by presenting only the RRR and not also the ARR and NNT, contrary to FDA guidance.

In the clinical trial for the Pfizer vaccine, U = 0.009251 (162 out of 17,511; the suit unfortunately rounds this to 0.9%), and V = 0.000459 (8 out of 17,411; the suit unfortunately rounds this to 0.04%). In the suit, the use of rounded figures leads to some inaccuracy in the subsequently produced values (the above articles fail to mention this), so for transparency, I will use the more precise figures. Then ARR = U-V = 0.008792 (so just under 0.88%), NNT = 114, and E = 0.950334, which rounds to 95%. The news headlines touted the Pfizer vaccine as being 95% effective, but using the ARR, the gain is less than 1%, and an NNT of 114 doesnt sound very reassuring, either. (Dont forget, too, that for this trial, U and V are not probabilities of death  just probabilities of catching symptomatic COVID-19.)

In addition, the suit accuses Pfizer of 1) relying on just two months of data, even less for some participants, giving a false impression of duration of protection; 2) a fear-mongering campaign through statements and advertising that left the impression that transmission would be halted when it wasnt; 3) claiming that the vaccine was highly effective against variants like Delta when it wasnt; 4) not counting those who become symptomatic until seven days following the second dose (without this restriction, in the trial, more of the vaccinated became symptomatic than the unvaccinated; this alone seems to negate entirely the merit of the vaccine); 5) misleading statements by Pfizers CEO about the vaccine ending the pandemic and offering lasting protection; and 6) promoting censorship of those not adopting the Pfizer narrative. (See the American Greatness link above for additional alleged serious misconduct not part of the Texas suit.)

The suit claims that Pfizers behavior violated both federal and Texas state law and is asking for over $10 million in damages ($10,000 per each violation of the Deceptive Trade Practices Act [DTPA] plus interest and fees.) To me, this doesnt come close to drop in the bucket level. Given that Pfizers vaccine brought in tens of billions of dollars in revenues, as mentioned in the suit, even a $100-million fine would be a drop in the bucket and just a cost of doing business. But even if Texas loses, the discovery process might embarrass Pfizer and act as a deterrent to such behavior in future.

As to the merits of the suit, Im not a lawyer, and I hope Im wrong, but Im guessing it will fail. The complaint that 95% effective is misleading will probably fail because Pfizer at least used the technical definition of effectiveness, FDA guidance notwithstanding. The fact that the MSM were misled in their reporting is irrelevant. The fact that the FDA issued some CYA statements during the process does not change that the FDA probably knew every false and misleading statement Pfizer issued, every questionable action it took, and yet still signed off on both the EUA and approval.

The court might rule that it is up to the FDA to sanction a company it is steering or has steered through the approval process. It is notable that Paxton avoided suing the FDA itself, probably because the chances of winning against a government agency, certainly on appeal, are near zero. FDA impropriety would be in the jurisdiction of the Executive Branch and congressional oversight.

Maybe Texas has standing on false statements violating the DTPA, but I wonder if the court might still consider the FDA to be the arbiter to prevent chaos. If the suit were relevant only to Lubbock County, Id guess Pfizer would plead guilty to avoid discovery, pay the fine, and then say it did so to avoid the hassle. But a guilty plea or verdict there would likely lead to suits in other states and even overseas. Stay tuned.

W.A. Eliot is a pseudonym.

Image via Flickr, public domain.
It was a long, slow road towards civilization. Now were sliding backwards, regressing towards a new era of the Dark Ages. Islam, wokeness, and communism find continuous victories on all fronts in the war to destroy the Western worldmonuments of Western civilization are conquered daily while the people cheer. Like we were warned, those who dont know the past are condemned to repeat it, and if one were to look at the life of Sir Isaac Newton and the history of calculus, one would see a reverberation in the destruction of knowledge we see today.

Sir Isaac Newton, who lived from 16431727, may have been the greatest genius in the history of mankindhe never married, and inventing calculus was impressive too. Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz came up with calculus independently and right around the same time, late 17th century. This seems to indicate that the age was right for it; yet the people were not fully ready for it. Much like evolution is still controversial 164 years after Charles Darwin first theorized on it, calculus was at the cutting edge of what the times were willing to accept; it was even considered heretical.

Newton was born in the medieval world, at the very start of the Dark Ages slowly giving way to the Enlightenment. It was a time when witches and demons were believed to plague humanity, when the wisest of men sought the philosophers stone. In the world in which Newton was born, heretics were put to death in Europe just like in Islamic countries todayone need look no further than the cases of Giordano Bruno, a Dominican friar and mathematician, or Galileo Galilei, who recanted his beliefs under threat of torture and death, spending the rest of his life under house arrest.

Newton the Occultist

Newton was a pioneering early scientist, but he was also a medieval sorcerer.

Newton created calculus, discovered the laws of motion and gravitation, and invented the reflecting telescope. His accomplishments were even more remarkable considering he was an occultist, his real interest. Most of his body was planted in the middle ages. He just dipped his toes into the science which would become a new lens through which to view the world, a science that would not fully appear during his lifetime.

Newton was an avid alchemist, as his goal was to find the philosophers stone. This stone, which was said to turn base metals into gold and extend life, was supposedly given by God to Adam and passed down through the biblical patriarchs, giving them their extremely long lifespans, and was sought by the most learned men since at least 300 AD. Newton believed the Bible contained hidden prophecies, which he believed he deciphered thanks to his mathematical skill, proving to his satisfaction that the apocalypse would be between 2060 and 2090.

Newton had to keep his work in alchemy a secret, because it was banned in England from 1404 to 1689 under penalty of deathbanned not because it was thought not to work, but because the Crown believed the philosophers stone existed, and in the wrong hands, an alchemist would be able to manufacture gold, and so devalue the gold possessed by the crown.

The Heresy of Calculus

The cornerstone of calculus is infinitesimals, which are values that are infinitely close to zero but are not zero. By the 1630s and into the 1650s, Bonaventura Cavalieri, a Jesuate monk (the order was abolished in 1668 over rivalry with the Jesuits) came up with the idea of infinitesimals, but they were the Confederate flags of the time.

Basic to the idea behind calculus is that a line consists of infinite points, which sounds absurd at first glance. If a line consists of infinite points, and if the length of each point is zero, then every line should have a length of zero. And if these points had a length, no matter how infinitesimally small, the length of every line should be infinite.

Today we can regard these infinite points as hypothetical conveniences essential to calculus. But in the 17th century, the Church held as dogma Platos belief that ideas and forms were the ultimate reality. God was infinite, points on a line were not.

In 1632, just as Galileo was being condemned and fighting for his life, a committee of Jesuits met and ruled infinitesimals were heretical and teaching them forbidden.

Cancel Culture has a Price

Amir Alexander, an Israeli historian of science, authored a book titled, Infinitesimal: How a Dangerous Mathematical Theory Shaped the Modern World which included these details:

But when the Jesuits triumphed over the advocates of the infinitely small, this brilliant tradition died a quick death.  Italy, where it all began, became a mathematical backwater, a land in which there was no future for those seeking to pursue a mathematical career.

For two hundred years, the teaching of calculus was banned in Italy. Italy as a capital for brilliance and learning never recovered.

Knowledge needs freedom. Science and discovery go to places where there is freedom. It is no accident that the pioneers of statistics, invented at the start of the 20th century (yes, that late), were all British. But where is science and the quest for knowledge to go today?

The Archimedes Palimpsest

A palimpsest is a parchment where the writing is removed for it to be reused, but some survives underneath. One such record is work from Archimedes, that survived only because it was folded, rebound, and reused for a liturgical text. In the Dark Ages, Archimedess writings were destroyed, but parchment was rare and

valuable, so it was routinely scraped and reused. After years of work using modern technology (Western science) such as digital imaging with ultraviolet and infrared light, Archimedess work underneath could be read. Amazingly, Archimedes invented integration using infinitesimals, and was on the verge of calculus. Archimedes was murdered in 212 BC by an invading Roman soldier. It only took 1,900 years for humanity to again stand where Archimedes stood. How long will it be before humanity stands again where it stood a few years ago, before woke, COVID, and Floyd?

Epilogue

Science, humanismin the classic sense, not like todays fascists who call themselves humanistsdemocracy, individualism, were created over the last 360 years. But the pendulum has swung. This is now the Age of Regress.

It took a long time, and it was a protracted painful process for Western civilizationwhite male Western civilizationto achieve everything we have and take for granted, and are now losing to an invading horde.

Today, Enlightenment values, science, and Western culture have disappeared under the jackboot of decolonization, indigenous knowledge, transphobia, and Islamophobia. Objective knowledge and the concept of intelligence are now forbidden white constructs.

Will we be returning to indigenous math which, when compared to calculus is something akin to 1, 2, too many to count?

Image generated by AI.
Remember the Jussie Smollett hate-crime hoax, where the television actor claimed he was the victim of an attempted lynching by red (MAGA) hat-wearing assailants on the snowy streets of Chicago in early 2019?

It was easily debunked by a police investigation, but its timing coincided with a bill passed in Congress against lynching.

Contrary to how it may have seemed at the time, Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) and Sen. Corey Booker (D-N.J.), the bill's sponsors, did not invent this lynching bill because of Jussie Smollett's hoax.

The Smollett hoax was more like coincidentally good timing, as the case's exposure in the press helped it pass the Congressional vote two weeks after the carefully planned attack. Smollett's claims contained all the elements that the bill needed in order to gain publicity: it had a famous Black and gay man, a noose was at the scene to make the bill modern again, and the best part of all, it had maintained the Democrat-projected brand on Trump supporters as racist and homophobic.

What's the back story?

Harris and Booker had struggled for seven months to promote and finally pass the antiquated Justice for Victims of Lynching Act (JVLA) in December 2018. The JVLA was due to come up for a House vote on Feb. 14, 2019, and it faced criticism and apathy.

At the time, Harris and Booker would benefit from a stirring legislative achievement to boost their reputations. Both, after all, were running for president. Smolletts so-called attempted lynching pushed their bill over the finish line. The staged crime also included a bonus smear of President Trump since Smollett's perpetrators made certain to shout, This is MAGA country!

Casual news onlookers assumed that the bill was inspired by Smolletts alleged hate crime, but critical thinkers sensed something out of kilter because bills are not conjured up that quickly. Fast forward to Dec. 1, 2023, and Smollett is ordered by the appeals court to finish out his 150-day jail sentence. However, he may be getting off easy. Fake or not, Smollett and others conspired to carry out a lynching hate crime, which, thanks to the bill he helped to pass, has much stiffer consequences.

To fully appreciate the irony, it might help to review the details.

Weeks before Smollett performed his hate crime hoax on Jan. 29, 2019, Sen. Harris and Booker were building their presidential candidate resumes by passing historic legislation for making lynching a federal hate crime. Harris had proudly stated: "This is a historic piece of legislation that would criminalize lynching, attempts to lynch and conspiracy to lynch for the first time in America's history."

However, the legislation might have seemed irrelevant to critics because fatal lynchings were already constituted as a homicide and there was no urgency to pass a bill about crimes that have not been newsworthy for more than 150 years. But, Smolletts 'modern day lynching would come to the rescue providing a Hollywood excitement to the anti-lynching bills scheduled voting session.

Most notably, Sen. Harris was poised to smear her presidential campaign opponent, Donald Trump, and his supporters for being "MAGA-country" racists, because those are the words that Smollett trained his paid attackers to shout.

The talented Smollett had created the racist, homophobic assault just as if he was the director, prop master, and producer of a faux-documentary that would act as a PowerPoint for Harriss and Booker's JVLA legislative bill and tarnish Trump supporters at the same time. But looking back at Harris's and Booker's knee-jerk, social media reactions, immediately after Smolletts attack was on the news, it should have been painfully obvious they very well could have been inspirations if not supporters of Smollett's performance.

Just hours following the press release of Smollett's alleged assault, Sen. Harris tweeted her empathy for Smollett but made certain to underscore that the crime gave relevance to her proposed legislation because it was, after all, a "MODERN-DAY LYNCHING."

Booker's "I told you so" message was particularly telling in this Jan. 29, 2019 tweet: "To those in Congress who don't feel the urgency to pass our Anti-Lynching bill designating lynching as a federal hate crime I urge you to pay attention!"

Moreover, Harris was planning to offer reparations for Black American lynching victims to spark her presidential campaign had Smolletts sham not been exposed. As a bonus, President Trump's campaign would have been crippled with racism charges. Likely, Harris may have daydreamed that Smolletts attack, allegedly by Trump supporters, would be a sizzling talking point during the presidential debate.

All said and done, Smollett was convicted of five felony counts of disorderly conduct in 2021, and served six days in jail of his 150-day sentence while his appeal was in progress. On Dec. 1, 2023, Smollett was ordered by the appeals court to finish his sentence, which is significantly less than the punishment penned by Harris and Booker for conspirators of a lynch hate crime (which he clearly was).

Smollett's legal team vowed to keep pursuing this case straight to the Supreme Court.

If they do, ironically, Harris, Booker, and Smollett -- and by God's poetic justice -- they likely could be proclaimed co-conspirators of a lynch hate crime, facing a 10-year sentence according to the very legislation they were desperately trying to make immortal.

According to the bill, in Section 250: Lynching

Whoever conspires with another person to violate section 245, 247, or 249 of this title or section 901 of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 3631) shall be punished in the same manner as a completed violation of such section, except that if the maximum term of imprisonment for such completed violation is less than 10 years, the person may be imprisoned for not more than 10 years.

Marie Hembree, M.A. Strategic Communications/Ph.D. (ABD) is a resource specialist/instructor for academic success and an investigative journalist finishing a dissertation in the communications doctoral discipline.

Image: Walt Disney Television, via Flickr // CC BY-ND 2.0
Driven by the Muslim-controlled United Nations, the untrustworthy media are spreading a false argument that Israel is perpetrating a war crime by attacking innocent Palestinian civilians in Gaza. Instead of listening to the majority of Americans, who support Israels right to defend itself, the Biden administration is accepting the lefts version and sabotaging the existence of Americas number-one ally in the Middle East.

V.P. Kamala Harris made Bidens position quite clear. Israel must do more to protect innocent civilians, Harris said. She lamented the suffering of the innocent Palestinians. This requires an immediate ceasefire. Notably absent from her remarks was a statement acknowledging the suffering of the 1,200-plus Israelis who were brutally killed and taken hostage by Hamas on October 7. Deliberate murder of innocent Israelis by Hamas is perfectly acceptable to our government, but unavoidable collateral damage by Israel is not.

At the core of Harriss misconception is the big question: can the Palestinian civilian population be described as innocent? The answer is out in the open. Recent surveys reveal that more than three quarters of the civilian population in Gaza and the West Bank approve of Hamas and its October 7 atrocities.

A crowd of ordinary Gazans  not Hamas  were seen spitting on the naked body of a dead Jewish hostage, hitting her body, mutilating her body as it went down the street, said Douglas Murray, author of The War on the West. Does that strike you as a placid population of peacenik types who are just desperately waiting for a two-state solution to be put back on the table?

The people known as Palestinians are united in their desire to destroy Israel and kill every Jew on the planet. That is their reason for existing. It is a formula for anything but innocence. The Palestinian cause, said talk show host Dennis Prager, is eliminate Israel and substitute Palestine. The civilian population of Gaza is all in for terrorist atrocities against Israel.

The argument that Israel is commiting a war crime by targeting civilians is patently false. International law supports a nations right to defend itself by attacking civilian positions when they are being used as shields to protect warfighting capabilities. If a hospital is being used as a military center, said journalist Melanie Phillips, it forfeits all its protection. It has to be treated as a military target.

Phillips points out that there were neither cries of outrage nor demands for humanitarian aid, nor calls for a ceasefire, when thousands were killed in Mosul, in Afghanistan, in Syria, in Turkey, in Chechnya, in Ukraine. In every war, she says, it is considered essential that the civilian enemy population is part of the enemy. A different standard is applied to Israel. The media gives the impression that Israel is laying siege to hospitals, said Phillips. That is the coverage in the West.

The narrative is of oppressive Israelis and oppressed Palestinians, said Phillips. In our victim culture world, if you are a victim and you are oppressed, you are given a moral free pass for anything you do. Palestinian terrorism is understandable. Israelis cant be victims; they can only be oppressors.

The fighters of Hamas dont care if they cause the death of their own civilians, and the Palestinian population supports them. It leaves Israel no alternative but to strike aggressively at terrorist positions in Gaza. Hamas, not Israel, is responsible for placing Palestinian civilians in harms way. Every Palestinian death is caused by Hamas or Hezballah, said Dennis Prager, just as every German who died in World War II was the victim of Hitler and the Nazis, not a victim of the West. Israels fight is the Western worlds fight, Prager concludes. It is good versus evil.

Israeli journalist and author Caroline Glick offers a brilliant analysis of the war in Gaza. In all other wars, she says, people can be resettled to get them out of harms way. The only way to protect the inhabitants of Gaza is by allowing them to relocate, she insists, but that is being blocked by the U.N. with the complicity of the U.S. Glick explains that in 1947, the U.N. set up a system (UNRWA) where Palestinians are not allowed to be resettled, thus guaranteeing that the war will continue forever until Hamas wins and Israel is defeated.

The United Nations is not just a passive participant in promoting terrorism, writes RedState. It is actively providing aid and comfort to Hamas, including the terrorist governments hostage-taking. UNRWA is a Hamas-linked outfit that teaches children to hate Jews from a young age and helps supply terrorists with resources. The Biden administration continues to fund it without any condemnation.

If Israel is seduced by the double standard, it will prevent the IDF from waging an effective war on Hamas and ensure Hamass ultimate objective: the destruction of Israel. Theres no point in destroying Hamas a bit, said Douglas Murray. The objective is to destroy Hamas. Half destroying it isnt good enough.

The Biden administration has adopted the U.N.s position. In effect, Biden wants Israel  not Hamas  to be destroyed.

Ed Brodow is a conservative political commentator and author of ten books, including No. 1 Amazon Best Seller THE WAR ON WHITES: How Hating White People Became the New National Sport. His website is www.edbrodowpolitics.com.

Image via Pexels.
Say verabschiedung to the magical woodlands that inspired the backdrop for many a Grimms fairy taleor I suppose more appropriately given the shift in demographics,  as the German government has officially commenced a controversial deforestation initiative.

My colleague Monica Showalter wrote an excellent and in-depth analysis almost two years ago on the governments proposal to axe large swathes of Germanys most famous, and 1,000-year-old forest to make way for wind turbineswhich you can read hereand the project has finally commenced.

From an item at Remix News today:

The deforestation of parts of the central German Reinhardwald [sic] forest has begun as the woodland, famously featured in the Grimms fairy tales, is to be cut down to make way for wind turbines. The forest, which contains trees that are up to 200 years old, is now being cleared for highway-wide construction roads to facilitate the erection of 18 wind turbines around Sababurg Sleeping Beauty Castle.  Since construction began on the 241-metre-high wind turbines, animals have been fleeing the Reinhardswald, including lynx, of which there were only around 130 in 2018. No climate activists demonstrated against the deforestation and destruction of the rare animals habitat.

(As a friendly reminder, Germany is suffering from a self-induced energy crisis ushered in with the balls-to-the-wall acceptance of the green agenda.)

The article also notes that nine of the eleven mayors from the neighboring municipalities campaigned against the project, while Hermann-Josef Rapp, an honored local who has led more than 1,000 guided tours through the forest, earning himself the moniker the voice of the Reinhardswald, called the development a tragedy.

Where are the leftist greenies who stake their entire identity on environmental conservation and animal rights? Theyll trespass and chain themselves to slaughter equipment, because common ducks are just that sacred; theyll hurl obscenities at people eating meat because cattle-grazing sometimes accompanies deforestation; theyll block traffic, disrupt peoples lives, destroy idling vehicles, and assault drivers over their uneducated concerns with crude oil consumption; theyll support eminent domain and other seizures of privately held lands to protect endangered species; and theyll battle logging efforts so the owls and other little woodland creatures that call the forest home have a voice.

So again, where are they now? An old-growth forest with staggering cultural and ecological value isnt worth their time? How is Reinhardswald less sacred than a duck? Or a chicken?

Oh, thats right, theyre not real environmentalists or conservationists, theyre just corporate and political shills, bleating for a cause about which they know nothing, and for which they have no real investment.

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Having enough hubris to play the Do you know who I am? card is embarrassing enough, even when the somebody is high-profile enough to be known by the average person; but when youre a not-so-immediate relative of one of the most embarrassing public figures to ever enter into the public sphere? It gives me secondhand nausea just thinking about it, but fortunately for Shannon Epstein, she was allegedly too drunk to care.

From an item in the New York Post today:

The niece of former New Jersey Gov. and presidential hopeful Chris Christie was handed down new charges a year after she was kicked off a New Orleans flight during a Thanksgiving Day drunken, drug-induced meltdown, that left several with minor injuries.

Chris Christie?! If I were related to that man, Id literally never mention itto be completely transparent, my ego wouldnt allow itbut here are the rest of the details:

The meltdown occurred at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport as the Newark-bound flight was taxiing for takeoff at 6 a.m, when Epstein allegedly asked a Latino family sitting near her if they were smuggling cocaine.  Are you serious? Do you know who I am?[] Epstein screamed according to a police report viewed by The Post at the time. Im related to some very powerful people and I need to get back on that plane to New Jersey.

Epstein then allegedly suggested the officers would be losing their jobs for doing their job. What a spoiled brat.

Now, there are a number of reasons why Christies name and reputation is not one to which Id hitch my own, but that first example is his Donald Duck cringey flop at one of the recent debates. Honestly, the clip lives rent-free in my mind because it was just that uncomfortable to watch, and almost too much to suffer was this face:

Chris Christie called Donald Trump 'Donald Duck' at the debate last night.



Describe Chris Christie in one word. pic.twitter.com/C0hoscEp1E  TEAM USA  (@__TEAM_USA) September 28, 2023

For the other more serious examples of why Christies name evokes negative sentiments though, one only need look at one event (or two, if you feel like it) that defined his gubernatorial tenure.

If you remember, Christie is the man who took advantage of a feckless government spending squabble to treat a closed beach like a private one, plopping himself down like a beached whale after using a taxpayer-funded helicopter to fly from the capital to the state-owned beachfront mansion at which he and his family were stayingall while being entirely shameless about the optics. From The Washington Post:

Yes, Christie told reporters at a Sunday news conference in Trenton, his family was staying in the state-owned beach house at Island Beach State Park over the July 4 weekend  even though the park was closed to the public amid a statewide government shutdown. He had been unapologetic about that gubernatorial perk the day before: Thats the way it goes, Christie said Saturday. Run for governor, and you can have the residence. And, yes, he had joined his family at said state-owned beach house, flying between the barrier island and Trenton using a state helicopter.

Or how about the bridge scandal? From Ballotpedia:

In September 2013, aides to New Jersey Governor Chris Christie (R) allegedly conspired to close lanes of traffic on the George Washington Bridge, resulting in four days of gridlock for the town of Fort Lee, New Jersey. The lane closures were allegedly set up in retribution against Fort Lees mayor, who had refused to endorse Christies 2013 re-election bid.

Naturally, lawsuits and charges followed the scandal, and we learned this from BBC:

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie laughed about his staff closing part of a bridge in 2013 over a mayor who refused to endorse him, a court heard. He was told about the political revenge plot at a 9/11 memorial service two days after the lanes were blocked, a former aide testified in federal court. David Wildstein, who pleaded guilty to the scheme last year, recounted his discussion with Mr Christie on Tuesday.

Snobby elitism and entitlement must just run in the Christie familya drunken slob accusing people of crime based on their skin color and demanding no consequences?though its weird that some people would willingly identify themselves with such a tainted name.

Image from X.
Last night, in his third town hall appearance on FOX News since last June, former President Donald Trump said he believes that President Joe Biden will not be the Democrat partys nominee for president next year.

This was one of the two major takeaways from Trumps hour-long sitdown with host Sean Hannity (actually closer to 35 minutes when the ad breaks and Hannitys opening and closing comments were factored in).

The other one was Trumps sarcastic reply to the claim repeated recently by the MSM, Democrats, and former Rep. Liz Cheney (RINO-WY), to wit, that Trump would, if he is re-elected, pose a threat to democracy and rule as a dictator.

In his introduction to the program, Hannity announced that he would question President Trump about the cacophony of voices attacking him as a future dictator.

From the transcript of the broadcast provided by FOX News Media:

SEAN HANNITY FOX NEWS HOST: Heres The Washington Post yesterday  quote  The fear of a looming Trump dictatorship. And this is todays headline from Salon.com: Americans are sleepwalking into a Trump dictatorship. Its now their favorite word. Over at fake news, all cable news channels, you know, theyre featuring, you know, the same brand of fearmongering. Obviously, its clear they dont want to talk about Joe Biden and his failed record.

After Trump was introduced, Hannity attempted twice to get the former president to respond:

SEAN HANNITY: They want to call you a dictator. You used the words, I am your retribution. And now, before that, you said, if you have been wronged, and you used other words as well. But I want to be very, very clear on this. To be clear, do you in any way have any plans whatsoever, if reelected president, to abuse power, to break the law, to use the government to go after people? FORMER PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP: You mean like theyre using right now. (LAUGHTER) TRUMP: So, in the history of our country... (CHEERING AND APPLAUSE) TRUMP: ... whats happened to us, again, has never happened before over nonsense, over nothing, made-up charges. I often say Al Capone, he was one of the greatest of all time, if you like criminals. He was a mob boss, the likes of which  Scarface, they call him. And he got indicted once. I got indicted four times.

With his question left unanswered, Hannity returned to the topic a few minutes later:

HANNITY: We almost have to go to a break. I want to go back to this one issue, though, because the media has been focused on this and attacking you  TRUMP: Yeah. HANNITY:  under no circumstances. You are promising America tonight. You would never abuse power as retribution against anybody? TRUMP: Except for day one. HANNITY: Except, what? TRUMP: Hes [points to Hannity] going crazy. Except for day one. HANNITY: Meaning? TRUMP: I want to close the border and I want to drill, drill, drill. HANNITY: Thats not  that's not retribution. I got it. TRUMP: Im going to be  Im going to be, you know, he keeps  we love this guy. He says, youre not going to be a dictator, are you? I said, no, no, no, other than day one. Were closing the border and were drilling, drilling, drilling. After that, Im not a dictator. HANNITY: Well, that sounds to me like youre going back to the policies when youre a president. TRUMP: Exactly.

Notwithstanding the context and nuance of Trumps comment, the mainstream media  and the Biden-Harris campaign  wasted no time in attacking the former president.

Aaron Moussa, Director of Rapid Response for the Biden-Harris campaign, posted on X (formerly Twitter) the campaigns official statement shortly after the town hall ended.

BIDEN HARRIS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 5, 2023 The following is a statement from Biden-Harris campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez: Donald Trump has been telling us exactly what he will do if hes reelected and tonight he said he will be a dictator on day one. Americans should believe him.

In terms of the mainstream media, FOX News is the only one (on television) that correctly reported the headline: with an on-screen chyron reading, to paraphrase, that Trump said he would not be a dictator except on day one in terms of closing the border and ordering drilling for oil.

There also was Trump's assessment of Joe Biden's candidacy.

The other money quote, as it were, from Tuesdays Iowa town hall was Trumps assertion that he doesnt think Joe Biden will be the Democrat nominee for president in 2024.

HANNITY: Let me ask you. When prominent Democratic voices like Maureen Dowd and David Axelrod and Van Jones and others are so critical of Joe Biden  and, of course, he is struggling cognitively. I cant think of, in the last couple of months, any appearance that he has had where he wasnt either mumbling or bumbling or stumbling or having no clue where to go, where to exit. Now, my question is, do you think, in 11 months, he will be their candidate? TRUMP: I personally dont think he makes it, OK? I havent said that. Im saving it for this big town hall. I have never really... (CHEERING AND APPLAUSE) TRUMP: I personally don't think he makes it. [emphasis added] (CHEERING AND APPLAUSE) TRUMP: I think hes in bad shape physically. Do you remember when he said, Id like to take him behind the barn? If he took me behind the barn and I went like this [makes blowing air sound], I believe hed fall over. (LAUGHTER) TRUMP: I believe hed fall over. Who knows. Who knows. Who knows. But it was OK. And, by the way, it was OK for him to say that. He said, Id like to take him behind the  he could say that and everyone thought it was so cute. If I ever said it, theyd say, hes a dictator. Hes a horrible human being. Its a whole double standard we have, and not only in the law, but just about everything else, as you know very well. I personally dont think he makes it physically. I watched him at the beach. He wasnt able to lift a beach chair, which is meant for children to lift. He couldnt lift it like that. (LAUGHTER) TRUMP: And mentally, I would say hes possibly equally as bad, and maybe worse. But I dont know. I will say this. Hes got vicious people surrounding him around that beautiful Oval Office. There are people in that Oval Office that are evil people, bad people, smart people, young, vicious. Theyre communists, and theyre bad. Theyre...

Finally, on this point, Hannity followed up by asking Trump who he thought would be the nominee if its not Biden:

TRUMP: Well, I saw one person on who I actually had a very good relationship with. But Im sure that it would end very quickly. I saw him in your debate the other night. And hes slick, but hes got no facts. You know, hes got no facts. I thought he did well, considering... HANNITY: Youre talking about Gavin Newsom? TRUMP: Yeah. Considering that he didnt have the facts, I thought he did well. You know, he said... (LAUGHTER) TRUMP: ... We have the lowest taxes in the country. We have the cleanest streets in the country. We have... (LAUGHTER) And Im saying, wait a minute. Is he talking about the same place? (LAUGHTER) So hed certainly be one. I guess they say that Kamala would be the one... (BOOING) TRUMP: ... with the odds to beat. (BOOING) TRUMP: Because they say, if they didnt give it to her, the African-American vote, the black vote, would not go to them. And we just had a poll where Im at 22 percent and 25 percent with the black vote. If we have that... (APPLAUSE)

Adding some spice to Trumps comments yesterday was President Bidens curious assertion on the same day, when speaking at a fundraising event in Weston, Mass., If Trump wasnt running, Im not sure Id be running, adding we cannot let him win.

Tonight at 8 p.m. ET, NewsNation will broadcast and stream online the fourth Republican candidates debate, featuring Nikki Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy, Chris Christie, and Ron DeSantis. Donald Trump, who also qualified to participate (obviously), continues to decline invitations to participate in the debates.

Peter Barry Chowka is a veteran journalist who has covered national politics and other topics for over five decades. His most recent interview on BBC Radio in the UK can be listened to here. His web page with links to his work is http://peter.media. Peters extensive American Thinker archive: http://tinyurl.com/pcathinker. His Twitter account is @pchowka.

Image: Twitter screen shot
Venezuela's Marxist dictator, Nicolas Maduro, is acting as though he has nothing to fear from Joe Biden.

In the wake of his fraudy referendum this past weekend on Venezuelan sovereignty over Guyana, which passed with empty polling stations, official claims of 10 million votes, and passage by a 98% margin, Biden hasn't said anything. Now Maduro is moving in for the kill.

Yesterday, he declared the Guyanese territory in question, known as the Essequibo in Venezuela's Spanish, or Esequiba in Guyana's English, some 78% of Guyana's land, Venezuela's 24th province:

BREAKING:



Nicolas Maduro officially declared the creation of a 24th Venezuelan province in Essequibo



Following this the Venezuelan state released a new official map of Venezuela which includes the oil-rich Essequibo region of its neighboring state of Guyana



Will they invade? pic.twitter.com/XJycSKIIH5  Visegrad 24 (@visegrad24) December 6, 2023

He even printed out maps for it:

BREAKING:



Nicolas Maduro officially declared the creation of a 24th Venezuelan province in Essequibo



Following this the Venezuelan state released a new official map of Venezuela which includes the oil-rich Essequibo region of its neighboring state of Guyana



Will they invade? pic.twitter.com/XJycSKIIH5  Visegrad 24 (@visegrad24) December 6, 2023

He mobilized troops, creating a new Guyana force:

...which, not surprisingly is a third-world clown show:

Only in #Venezuela could a missile from a Sukhoi fighter-bomber be discovered stored in the back yard of a rural shack. I can't wait for the official explanation. https://t.co/BDDUVfQq0M  Phil Gunson (@philgunson) December 3, 2023

All the same, Brazil is taking it seriously, launching a defensive military response to its northern border:

#Breaking Brazilian Troops deployed to the border with Venezuela video shows convoy #Venezuela pic.twitter.com/pu997u9Khi  Ghost Ops News (@the3dgameboy) December 6, 2023

#Venezuela #Brazil

Brazilian troops on the move towards the Venezuelan border.

Brazil has stated they will defend #Guyana from any Venezuelan invasion. pic.twitter.com/9b7eCECPoU  Mahmood Khan (@Mahmood88239370) November 30, 2023

CATO Institute Venezuela analyst, Daniel Raisman, points out that even with that Venezuelan clown show-military, Guyana is grossly outnumbered:

The balance of power between Venezuela and Guyana heavily favors Venezuela, which could also suggest the use of force. According to figures published by Brazilian newspaper Folha de Sao Paulo, the Venezuelan military counts 123,000 active personnel versus a mere 3,400 for Guyana. The latter country is badly outgunned in terms of weaponry, such as armored vehicles (514 vs. 6). Military analysts, Folhas Igor Gielow notes, believe that Venezuelas socialisminduced economic crisis has made its capacity to wage war look far stronger on paper than it is in fact, however. For instance, roughly half of the fleet of 24 Russianbuilt Sukhoi Su30 fighter aircraft is considered fit to fly. But even as a paper tiger, Gielow adds, Venezuela is a colossus compared to Guyana. Regarding the feasibility of an invasion: a good part of the 800kilometerlong border between Venezuela and Esequiba consists of dense jungle, which is impenetrable save for small units, whereas operations with armored vehicles are prohibitive.

His superb, must-read report, is here.

Meanwhile, Maduro is acting as though he's already conquered the Esequiba:

(Socialist country acts tyrannical, what a shock~NOT!)



Venezuela Orders Immediate Start of Oil Exploration in Disputed Territory https://t.co/MHG5BLLi4Y  Jeff Lee 2020 (@JeffLee2020) December 6, 2023

With lots of virtue-signaling for the Western leftists, Maduro, who's one of the world's worst polluters, says he's only concerned about the environment and all:

After causing irreversible environmental destruction in its own #ArcoMinero, the #Venezuela govt announces plans to conserve the environment of the #Essequibo (in next-door #Guyana). https://t.co/8gGzmd9GF2  Phil Gunson (@philgunson) December 6, 2023

He's also getting the ground ready for an attack by rounding up Venezuela's opposition, which opposes the caper:

#Venezuela govt orders arrest of members of @MariaCorinaYa's team and a member of the opposition primary commission. Charges include treason and money-laundering. Is Maduro opting for the #Nicaragua route? https://t.co/ckythGxULi  Phil Gunson (@philgunson) December 6, 2023

He's throwing in a made-up ExxonMobil bribery charge, significant because ExxonMobil is the one that has discovered oil in Guyana's Esequiba region, the very oil that has made Maduro hungry for conquest of his neighbor. Maduro's laying the groundwork for a treason charge:

#Venezuela state prosecutors 'investigating' alleged payments by @exxonmobil to opposition politicians, in what seems a clear bid to declare them traitors. Exxon is the biggest oil company drilling in #Essequibo waters. https://t.co/jtrmkFwlaP  Phil Gunson (@philgunson) December 5, 2023

Not surprisingly, Guyana is sounding the tocsin, recognizing that it's about to be eaten by a predator

Yesterday, the President of Guyana () announced that #Guyana is Preparing for the worst case scenario when dealing with #Venezuela ().



They are seeking a diplomatic solution to the crisis with help from the USA (), India (), and Cuba ().pic.twitter.com/Za5UYsT02g  SA Defensa (@SA_Defensa) December 6, 2023

We once again call on Venezuela to retract from this reckless, adventurous move and to allow international law and the ruling of the [U.N. court] to guide our action," Guyana President Ali told @MiamiHerald. https://t.co/CvU2GnJiXN  Jacqueline Charles (@Jacquiecharles) December 6, 2023

Guyana's president is calling on the United Nations, India, Cuba, anyone, just not the United States, to help his country which has only its inpenetrable Esequiba jungle to protect it.

Raisman says the most likely invasion route may be an amphibous landing, given that crossing it, like it's some place that has roads, is virtually impossible.

As for the U.S., some in Congress are calling for Biden's sanctions relief on Venezuela, his infamous oil-for-democracy deal, to be "snapped back" in light of its obvious violation of the terms and let Maduro drink his oil.

The #Maduro regime's ongoing harassment of @MariaCorinaYA & her team in #Venezuela is a clear sign that Pres. Biden must immediately snapback all sanctions relief given since November 22 & redouble efforts to arrest & extradite this international criminal.https://t.co/IScC3ND6sG  Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member (@SenateForeign) December 6, 2023

Biden likes to drop sanctions a lot in dirty dictatorships -- and the result is always the same.

Iran, recall, launched its attack on Israel on October 7 through its Hamas proxies, right after Biden lifted sanctions on that evil regime. Biden also dropped sanctions on Venezuela -- to get a slice of Venezuela's oil, so that energy prices would go down in the states and his re-election would be assured. He has a diplomatic team known as the "three stooges" making these decisions. Whether it's Iran with Israel, Russia with Ukraine (he allowed a Russian pipeline to go to Germany), Biden loves to scrap sanctions on these rogue regimes, and monkey-see, monkey-do, they attack their neighbors. They know that with Biden at the helm, they have nothing to fear from the U.S.

For them, it's as if another Jim Jones is present, a Marxist madman from another country, seeking to rain death through the Guyanese jungle.

Now a disaster looks likely, the umpteenth of Joe Biden's presidency, and don't think there won't be millions more illegal border crossers that come of this.

Maduro is acting as if he has nothing in the world to fear from an annexation of his neighbor from the United States. It's invasion season now that Joe Biden is doddering away at the White House -- invasions of every kind -- and the time to strike is now.

Image: Twitter screen shot
Last year, Apple released the iPhone 14 series but it kept the much-anticipated Dynamic Island exclusive to Pro models. However, things have changed with the iPhone 15 line and changed for the better. All four iPhones come with Dynamic Island. Thats when Apples second biggest display supplier BOE decided to join the league and produce OLED displays for the iPhone 15 line. However, despite major investments in panel research and development, it consistently grappled with challenges. A new DigiTimes report (via Wccftech) claims that Apple supplier BOE has difficulty expanding the OLED supply for the iPhone 15 models due to light leakage issues.

Apple display supplier BOE faced a setback

BOE needs help making enough OLED panels for the basic iPhone 15. Apple permitted BOE to start making OLED panels in March 2023, but this permission was taken away in September. As a result, Apple canceled its order for these panels.

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Initially, BOE was set to supply OLED displays for the standard iPhone 15 and the larger iPhone 15 Plus. However, the manufacturer faced complications when it encountered issues related to light leakage around the specific area of the OLED display, which is crucial for accommodating the TrueDepth camera, Face ID, and the location of the Dynamic Island, where the pill and hole cutouts are positioned.

GSMArenas previous report accurately supports the current situation, highlighting that BOE had been behind schedule. Insiders mentioned that the Chinese display manufacturer would be excluded from the contract if things dont improve soon.

Apple may continue sticking with Samsung for display

Samsung Display continues to dominate the OLED panel supply for the iPhone 15 series. It boasted a commanding 91% market share between June and August 2023. Meanwhile, BOE has faced production challenges. All of this leaves Samsung as the sole provider for the majority of iPhone 15 models. If BOE cannot address its supply issues, Samsungs position as the primary supplier is likely to remain unchallenged.
By Lee Min-hyung

Shin Yoo-yeol, the heir apparent of Lotte Group's owner family, will be in charge of finding the firms next growth engines and mapping out its medium- to long-term vision, the company said Wednesday during a year-end reshuffle of top management.

According to the group, Lotte established a future growth division dedicated to managing the firms next revenue streams, such as bio and health care, and looking for its next cash cow. The third-generation member of Lotte Group's owner family will stand at the forefront in driving the unit.

Shin will also take on a role as head of Lotte Biologics global strategy division. The bio arm of Lotte is considered one of the groups next major growth areas.

The promotion is seen by many as a generational shift within the group, enabling him to tighten his grip in key sectors.

Shin started his career at Nomura Securities and worked at the company for more than a decade between 2008 and 2018. It has been about three years since he joined Lotte. He has since risen through the ranks quickly to reach the executive level. While working at Lotte Chemical for the past year, he drove a major turnaround of his new business unit. Recognized for his achievement, the company promoted him to the higher-ranking position.

The eldest son of Lotte Group Chairman Shin Dong-bin, the scion has been making more public appearances at major group events. In September, he was seen joining an opening ceremony for Lotte Mall Lake Hanoi in Vietnam.
Nintendo may be working on a Switch Mini console that fits in your pocket. A leaker that goes by the name of Nash Weedle on X has recently shared a post that contains details about the potential of this more portable console.

Details about the rumored device come from the discovery of patents that Nintendo is said to have filed. Since these are leaks the information isnt confirmed and its possible nothing ever comes from these patents. However, its also possible Nintendo could indeed be working on a Switch console that fits in your pocket. The patent filings tell an interesting story about what changes consumers could expect to see.

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For starters, lets think about what a Switch Mini thats pocketable would be like. If it fits in your pocket, a Switch Mini would almost certainly be more susceptible to damage. One of the patents seems to have an answer for that. Nintendo could be devising a pair of attachable protective covers that can be affixed to the console on the front and back via magnets. The back cover appears to be something that you could attach to the back and still use the Switch. While the front cover would be solely for protective purposes as it would cover the screen.

A Nintendo Switch Mini could also be called the Switch Pocket

Theres really no telling what a new smaller Switch console would be called. But In addition to Switch Mini, theres speculation it could be called the Switch Pocket or the Switch Micro. As mentioned by Notebookcheck, Weedle refers to the console with all these potential names. But Nintendo may have another name for the console entirely and choose none of these.

Nintendo may rearrange the buttons to make the console smaller

In addition to the first patent, another one mentions rearranging the buttons to help make the console smaller. On the current Nintendo Switch OLED and original Switch, the L and ZL and R and ZR buttons are situated like triggers and bumpers on a normal controller. But the patent for the Switch Mini suggests Nintendo could move the buttons around to be placed in a line at the top of the console. Basically, it shows Nintendo taking the ZL and ZR buttons and placing them to the side of the L and R buttons instead of behind them.

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Yet another patent says Nintendo might also place the home and screenshot buttons at the bottom of the console. This could certainly help Nintendo save space on the front of the console. But it also seems like it would be hard to reach those buttons if they were on the bottom. Just looking at my Nintendo Switch OLED, the only feasible way to press a button on the bottom of the console where the USB-C charging port is would be to turn it upward so the screen is no longer facing you.

Trying to reach buttons down there with my thumbs doesnt really work. However, this could be entirely different if the console was physically smaller. Maybe the buttons would be closer and within reach.

Shrinking down the cooling system

Another potential change Nintendo could make is to decrease the size of the cooling system. SamMobile points out another post by Weedle that references a more compact cooling system. This could easily be another way to help decrease the overall size of the Switch to make it more of a mini, pocketable device. Perhaps by using cooling systems that are similar to those used in phones. Take ASUSs ROG Phone 7 for example. It uses a combination of thin graphite sheets and a rapid-cycle vapor chamber to help dissipate heat and improve thermal efficiency.

Look at this from another perspective. The cooling system was one of the larger components of the PlayStation 5. And in its most recent iteration, the Slim model, Sony shrunk it down to help save space. So, its reasonable to assume that reducing the size of the cooling system is one thing Nintendo could be working on to help bring a more pocketable Switch console into reality. Again though, take this information with a grain of salt until more concrete evidence pops up or until Nintendo confirms the console.
Hundreds of users on PlayStation have reported that their accounts were receiving an unexplained permanent ban from Sony, but it seems those bans were made in error and Sony has now corrected the issue.

On December 4 reports from tons of users across the web started piling in about getting locked out of their accounts. First seen by The Verge, permanent account suspensions were being handed out to players without any warning or explanation from Sony. One user on the gaming forum ResetEra says they were in the middle of a game when the account suspension alert came in. They were then locked out of the account. It would be easy to dismiss these reports as users doing something they shouldnt have if it werent for the numerous other users reporting the same problem.

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Over on Reddit, one user in the PlayStation thread notes their suspension came up without warning as well. Other users in the comments report having the same issues and that after reaching out to Sony, they werent being given a reason for the ban. In some cases, users were simply told they couldnt helped and to make a new account. More users on X have reported the same problem. There is a silver lining though. Sony seems to have been aware of the permanent ban error with PlayStation accounts and has restored access.

Sony has restored access to PlayStation accounts following the permanent ban error

As The Verge notes, bans seem to have been lifted for most accounts. Its still unclear why the bans were ever issued in the first place. As of right now, Sony hasnt issued any statements about the bans. However many of the users who had the problem in the first place have reported the bans were reversed.

I didnt notice any ban alerts on my own personal PSN account after checking the PS5. And was able to load up Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III last night and this morning to double-check. So the bans werent happening to everyone. But they do seem to have been pretty widespread.

Its also unclear if all the bans made in error have been restored at this time. But it does seem that the majority of those accounts may be accessible again. It seems unlikely another large wave of erroneous bans will be issued. But if you do receive a ban, your best bet is to reach out to PlayStation support. If youre confident its an error you can also try to appeal.
The tensions between the United States and China are not just happening on the shores of Taiwan; they have expanded to the semiconductor industry. Given the significant impact of chips on both countries national security, the US administration has imposed sanctions on potential chip deals with China, especially chips with AI capabilities.

While most companies tried not to violate the sanctions, a possible chip deal between NVIDIA and China has prompted the US government to interfere and react. According to PC Gamer (via Fortune), US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo threatened that if NVIDIA continues redesigning its AI chips to meet Chinas demands, she is going to control it the very next day.

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The US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo blocks Nvidia chip deal with China

Speaking at the Reagan National Defence Forum in California on Saturday, Raimondo said, We cannot let China get these chips. Period. She added they want to deny China from accessing the USs most cutting-edge technology. To do so, Raimondo is asking Congress to allocate more funds to the Commerce Departments Bureau of Industry and Security. The agency oversees US exports to other countries.

I have a $200 million budget. Thats like the cost of a few fighter jets. Come on, Raimondo noted. If were serious, lets go fund this operation like it needs to be funded.

Raimondo also addressed American companies, saying they should respect the bans established against particular countries. More importantly, export bans that were imposed on semiconductors. Raimondo added CEOs of chip companies were a little cranky with her after imposing export bans because it affected their revenue. However, she said protecting US national security is more important than short-term revenue.

Nvidia is modifying its chips to comply with US export restrictions

Among others, Nvidia is caught redesigning some of its AI chips to be exported to China (via Videocardz). While the Nvidias H100/A100 HPC accelerators were subject to restrictions, the chip maker launched modified H800/A800 chips for China. This fall, the Commerce Department updated the semiconductor limitations list to prevent Nvidias redesigned chips from being exported to restricted countries. As expected, the chip-making introduced HGX H20, L20, and L2 chips to bypass the ban.

Following the US restrictions on exporting RTX 4090 graphic cards, Nvidia started working on a modified version of it, RTX 4090D. This version is said to be exclusive to China market, and D in its name supposedly stands for Dragon. Well, it should not be surprising to soon see RTX 4090D GPU on the US export ban list.

Nvidia and the US government are in the midst of a tug of war. Meanwhile, Chinese companies are reportedly buying US chip-making equipment to produce in-house chips. This will help Chinese to reduce the countrys reliance on imported chips.
Beautiful soul shot dead in street may have been gangland victim, police say

Police are probing whether an east London shooting which left a 42-year-old woman dead was gang-linked.

Lianne Gordon, described by neighbours as a beautiful soul, died and a 20-year-old man and 16-year-old boy were hurt in the attack in Vine Close, Hackney, on Tuesday evening.

The trio are believed to have known each other but were not related, the Metropolitan Police said.

Officers are also trying to determine if the attack is linked to shots being fired in the same road days before.

Metropolitan Police Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway and Hackney mayor Caroline Woodley issue a statement near to the scene in Vine Close, Hackney, on Wednesday (Lucy North/PA)

In a statement at the scene, Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway said: I want to offer my most sincere condolences to the family and friends of the victims and also to all of those affected in the wider community by this incident.

It is important that we keep an open mind regarding motive and we will follow the evidence. It is too early in this investigation to comment further on motive, though we are considering the possibility that this was gang-linked.

Mr Conway added: We are also aware of a recent incident in which police were again called to shots being fired in Vine Close on the evening of Saturday December 2.

A card and flowers left near the scene (Lucy North/PA)

In response to that separate incident, officers found shell casings at the scene but there was no trace of any victim or suspect.

The Met specialist crime command is again continuing to investigate that separate incident. However, one of our lines of inquiry is to determine whether these two incidents are linked.

Ms Gordon died at the scene of the shooting, while the two males were taken to hospital, where they remain in a non-life-threatening condition.

Earlier on Wednesday, local residents paid tribute to Ms Gordon as police officers and forensics teams continued their investigation at the scene.

Flowers were laid outside a police cordon alongside a card which said: To Lianne: Such a beautiful soul gone too soon!

Shohid Auddin, a resident of Vine Close, told reporters Ms Gordon had recently come back from a holiday.

He said: She was very nice and chatty, she talked to us all the time.

My mum doesnt speak English but they understood each other. She had two children  my youngest daughter was the same age as hers.

She used to talk to everybody, I never saw her upset, she was always smiling.

Lucinda Leadette, 68, whose family were friends with Ms Gordon, described her as bubbly and outgoing.
Boris Johnson has said he takes personal responsibility for mistakes made in the handling of the pandemic as he apologised to victims at the UK Covid-19 Inquiry.

The former prime minister said his government should have unquestionably done things differently but insisted we did our level best in very difficult circumstances.

His highly-anticipated appearance was hit by protests as he began issuing an apology to victims of the pandemic.

Four people were removed from the hearing room after they held up signs reading: The Dead cant hear your apologies.

Can I just say how glad I am to be at this inquiry and how sorry I am for the pain and the loss and the suffering of the Covid victims, Mr Johnson said.

He went on to acknowledge that his government made errors, saying: So many people suffered, so many people lost their lives.

Inevitably, in the course of trying to handle a very, very difficult pandemic in which we had to balance appalling harms on either side of the decision, we may have made mistakes.

Mr Johnson also said: I take personal responsibility for all the decisions that we made.

Protesters outside the UK Covid-19 Inquiry at Dorland House in London (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Among the decisions he takes responsibility for are the speed of the Governments response to the pandemic in 2020, the lockdown decisions and their timeliness, the explosion of the virus in the residential care sector, the Eat Out to Help Out scheme, and the decision not to introduce a circuit-breaker later in 2020, he confirmed.

He said: With hindsight, it may be easy to see things that we could have done differently or it may be possible to see things that we could have done differently.

At the time, I felt and I know that everybody else felt that we were doing our best in very difficult circumstances to protect life and protect the NHS.

He claimed he was not sure whether Government decision-making had led to materially a larger number of excess deaths as a result of the pandemic.

Boris Johnson is questioned by lead counsel to the inquiry Hugo Keith KC (UK Covid-19 Inquiry/PA)

Pressed repeatedly on why the UK had such a high rate of excess deaths  the second-worst in Europe after Italy  he cited headwinds including an extremely elderly population with many health issues and being a very densely populated country, which did not help.

Challenged about the slow response to the unfolding crisis at the start of 2020, Mr Johnson said the wider government underestimated the threat posed by the virus.

It would certainly be fair to say of me, the entire Whitehall establishment, scientific community included, our advisers included, that we underestimated the scale and the pace of the challenge, he said.

I just dont think people really computed the implications of the data coming from China, where the outbreak began, he said.

Dominic Cummings was Cummings was Boris Johnsons chief adviser at the height of the pandemic (James Manning/PA)

A coronavirus pandemic was outside our living experience and instead the system remembered Sars, Mers and swine flu, Mr Johnson said, as he rejected the suggestion there was a failed mindset in Government.

Mr Johnson admitted he may have only read Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) minutes once or twice, adding that, in retrospect, it may have been valuable to have done so.

He said he instead relied on Englands chief medical officer Professor Sir Chris Whitty and former chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance who jointly chaired Sage.

Mr Johnson defended keeping former health secretary Matt Hancock in his post, despite calls from his aide Dominic Cummings that he should have been sacked.

He said Mr Hancock may have had defects but I thought that he was doing his best in very difficult circumstances and I thought he was a good communicator.

The ex-premier contradicted claims by Mr Hancock that he tried to raise his concerns about coronavirus with him four times in January 2020, saying he could not remember all the conversations with his then-health secretary.

Baroness Heather Hallett is leading the inquiry (UK Covid-19 Inquiry/PA)

Mr Johnson was also grilled on what previous witnesses to the inquiry have described as a toxic atmosphere in Downing Street and the influence of Mr Cummings, his chief adviser at the time.

He said expletive-heavy and sharply critical WhatsApp messages exchanged between senior aides were from very frazzled people involved in tackling the pandemic and reflected the agony of the country.

He said his No 10 team was made up of a lot of highly talented, highly motivated people who, under great stress and great anxiety about themselves and their own performance, will be inclined to be critical of others.

While denying suggestions of a toxic culture, Mr Johnson admitted his top team was too male-dominated and the gender balance should have been better.

Before Mr Johnsons evidence commenced, Lady Hallett complained about the briefings to the press, saying that leaks of the witness statement undermined the process.

She said: Failing to respect confidentiality undermines the inquirys ability to do its job fairly, effectively and independently.

Home Office minister Chris Philp earlier joked its the first time Boris has ever been early for anything after the former prime minister arrived at the inquiry venue around three hours before the start of the hearing, meaning he avoided many of the protesters who gathered outside.
Boris Johnson has admitted he should have twigged much sooner about the threat posed by Covid-19 in the early days of the pandemic, as he apologised for the pain and the loss and the suffering of its victims.

The first day of the former prime ministers highly anticipated evidence to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry, which was hit by protests, also saw him defending the culture of his No 10 after other witnesses branded it toxic.

He rejected accusations he had shown poor leadership by oscillating over whether to back tough restrictions in the early months of 2020.

Former aides have blamed Mr Johnsons tendency to veer on key decisions in March of that year for delaying the lockdown.

But he argued it was his job to test the completely novel policy, adding: It matters to the livelihoods of people up and down the land. I had to go through the arguments and that is what I was doing.

Challenged over the slow response to the unfolding crisis, Mr Johnson said Whitehall underestimated the need for action, adding that it was only when he saw the horrors of the outbreak in Italy that he realised the seriousness of the virus.

He suggested the experience of previous diseases such as Sars, Mers and swine flu clouded officials judgment while a coronavirus pandemic was outside our living experience.

Mr Johnson said: When you read that an Asiatic pandemic is about to sweep the world, you think youve heard it before. And that was the problem.

But I think itd be fair to say that the scientific community within Whitehall at that stage was not telling us that  I was not being informed that  this was something that was going to require urgent and immediate action.

Boris Johnson is questioned by lead counsel to the inquiry Hugo Keith KC (UK Covid-19 Inquiry/PA)

The ex-premier said his government might have operated differently if it had believed some of the early forecasts that were being made about Covid-19, but was unable to comprehend the implications.

I think collectively in Whitehall there was not a sufficient loud enough klaxon of alarm.

The former Tory leader defended his eventual decision to order Englands first lockdown on March 23 2020, saying by the middle of that month he was giving arguments against restrictions pretty short shrift.

I no longer had the luxury of waiting. It was over, he told Baroness Heather Halletts probe.

Mr Johnson appeared to become emotional as he discussed his anxiety about possible behavioural fatigue if he imposed a lockdown too early without a vaccination programme.

He looked on the verge of tears as he described 2020 as a tragic, tragic year.

Mr Johnson did not deny questioning why his government was destroying everything for people who will die anyway soon, but suggested the comment was not designed to be publicly broadcast.

Its an indication of the cruelty of the choice that we faced and the appalling balancing act that I had to do throughout the pandemic, he said when asked about a note written by his former aide Imran Shafi which recorded that he had made the remark.

He said he regretted describing long Covid as bollocks and Gulf War Syndrome in October 2020 notes, acknowledging the hurt and offence caused to those suffering from the condition.

Protesters outside Dorland House after being removed from Boris Johnsons hearing for holding up signs (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Mr Johnson denied taking a long holiday in February 2020, after coming under fire for taking a half-term break at his Chevening country retreat when the virus had exploded in Italy and there were cases in the UK.

He insisted he was working throughout the period after it previously emerged there was a 10-day period in which no notes on coronavirus were sent to Mr Johnson nor emergency Cobra meetings held.

Mr Johnson conceded that, with hindsight, mass gatherings should have been stopped earlier and he should not have shaken hands with patients at a hospital where there were coronavirus cases.

Boris Johnson getting his Covid-19 vaccine in March 2021 (Frank Augstein/PA)

His appearance before the inquiry was interrupted by protesters as he began by issuing an apology to victims of the pandemic, with four people removed from the hearing room.

Can I just say how glad I am to be at this inquiry and how sorry I am for the pain and the loss and the suffering of the Covid victims, Mr Johnson said.

He went on to acknowledge that his government made mistakes and took personal responsibility for all the decisions that we made.

Boris Johnson was questioned by inquiry lawyer Hugo Keith KC for more than five hours (UK Covid-19 Inquiry/PA)

Among those decisions were the speed of the governments response to the pandemic in 2020, the lockdown decisions and their timeliness, the explosion of the virus in the residential care sector, the Eat Out to Help Out scheme, and the decision not to introduce a circuit-breaker later in 2020.

Mr Johnson said that, with hindsight, it may be possible to see things that we could have done differently, but at the time I felt we were doing our best in very difficult circumstances.

He claimed he was not sure whether government decision-making had led to materially a larger number of excess deaths as a result of the pandemic.

Pressed repeatedly on why the UK had such a high rate of excess deaths  the second-worst in Europe after Italy  he cited headwinds including an extremely elderly population with many health issues and being a very densely populated country, which did not help.

Protesters outside the UK Covid-19 Inquiry at Dorland House in London (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Mr Johnson defended keeping former health secretary Matt Hancock in his post, despite calls from his aide Dominic Cummings that he should have been sacked.

He said Mr Hancock may have had defects but I thought that he was doing his best in very difficult circumstances and I thought he was a good communicator.

Claims that Mr Hancock was kept on to be a sacrifice at the inquiry were nonsense, he said.

Mr Johnson defended his Downing Street operation from claims there was internecine warfare, saying it was better on the whole for the country to have a disputatious culture in No 10 than one that was quietly acquiescent.

He dismissed expletive-laden WhatsApp messages exchanged between senior aides as the result of highly talented people being very frazzled by tackling the pandemic and reflecting the agony of the country.

But he admitted his top team was too male-dominated and the gender balance should have been better.

Bereaved families protesting outside the inquirys west London venue said they did not accept Mr Johnsons apology, and he was met with shouts of liar as he left Dorland House.

After five hours of questioning, Mr Johnsons evidence to Lady Halletts inquiry continues on Thursday.
Int'l conference on vector-borne diseases held in south China

Xinhua) 10:23, December 06, 2023

HAIKOU, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- An international conference on the sustainable control of vector-borne infectious diseases opened Tuesday in Haikou, capital of south China's Hainan Province.

With the aim of coping with global changes, controlling vectors, and protecting the health of all population groups, the conference was attended by more than 300 international academicians, experts, and scholars.

Over the past 10 years or so, China became one of the first countries to eradicate filariasis and was granted by the World Health Organization (WHO) the certification of malaria elimination, as bilharziasis is also currently on the brink of elimination in China, according to the experts.

China has switched its approach to vector-borne diseases from passive emergency control to proactive risk management and control in recent years. The country contributed to building a malaria-free world by sharing its experience, said Liu Qiyong, head of the WHO Collaborating Center for Vector Surveillance and Management and chief expert of vector control at China's Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Zhang Bike, an official with the CDC, said that back in 2006, there were still over 60,000 cases of malaria and 20,000 cases of epidemic hemorrhagic fever in China, and it took the country just over 10 years to get them under control. He added that China has made historic achievements in preventing and controlling such diseases.

China should continue to innovate its strategy and technology for preventing and controlling vector-borne diseases and further benefit China and the world with the innovative concept of sustainable control of vectors, according to Li Guanglin, an official with the Chinese Preventive Medicine Association.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The U.S. on Tuesday began imposing visa bans on people involved in violence in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Washington officials said, after several appeals for Israel to do more prevent violence by Jewish settlers.

A new State Department visa restriction policy targets "individuals believed to have been involved in undermining peace, security, or stability in the West Bank, including through committing acts of violence or taking other actions that unduly restrict civilians access to essential services and basic necessities," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.

President Joe Biden and other senior U.S. officials have warned repeatedly that Israel must act to stop violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank. Attacks there have surged in recent months as Jewish settlements have expanded, and then spiked again since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.

Blinken made clear to Israeli officials during a visit last week that "they need to do more to stop extremist violence against Palestinians, and hold those responsible for it accountable," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters in a press briefing after the announcement.

Palestinian leaders must also do more to curb Palestinian attacks against Israelis in the West Bank, he added.

The first bans under the new policy would be imposed on Tuesday and more designations will be made in the coming days, Miller said.

"We expect ultimately for this action to impact dozens of individuals and potentially their family members," Miller said, adding that any Israeli with an existing U.S. visa who was targeted would be notified that their visa was revoked.

Since a 1967 Middle East war, Israel has occupied the West Bank, which Palestinians want as the core of an independent state. It has built Jewish settlements there that most countries deem illegal. Israel disputes this and cites historical and biblical ties to the land.

Asked about settler violence in a news conference on Tuesday, Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said no one besides Israeli authorities had the right use violence.

"Israel is a state of law. The right to use violence belongs only to those who are certified to do so by the government," he said.

Miller said Israel had taken some steps to hold people responsible for the West Bank violence, like putting them in administrative detention, but U.S. officials believe they should be prosecuted.

Washington's move on Tuesday "does not obviate the need for the government of Israel to take its own actions and we will continue to be clear with them about it," he said. (Reuters)
Boris Johnson will face the first of two days of questioning over his handling of the pandemic when he appears before the UK Covid-19 Inquiry.

It comes after the former prime minister denied deleting WhatsApp messages after it emerged he had not been able to provide the inquiry with any communications from February to June 2020.

The highly anticipated appearance by Mr Johnson is expected to see him admit that his government made mistakes in its response to the virus, but argue that its decisions ultimately saved lives.

An advan outside the UK Covid-19 Inquiry at Dorland House in London (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Mr Johnson will also, according to reports, insist that he followed the advice of scientists and did not lock down the country more quickly because herd immunity was initially favoured.

His style of government at the height of the crisis has been criticised by former colleagues, while the atmosphere inside Downing Street has been described as toxic.

On Wednesdays morning broadcast round, Home Office minister Chris Philp joked its the first time Boris has ever been early for anything after the former prime minister arrived at the inquiry venue around three hours before the start of the hearing.

With Mr Johnson likely to be grilled on the evidence of ex-colleagues, a report in The Times revealed that he has not been able to provide the inquiry with any communications spanning the early days of the pandemic and most of the first lockdown.

Protesters wait outside the inquiry (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

The paper reported that he told Baroness Heather Hallets inquiry that technical experts have not been able to retrieve WhatsApp messages from between January 31 and June 7 2020.

Technical experts had been trying to recover messages from his old mobile phone to hand them to the inquiry. Mr Johnson was originally told to stop using the device over security concerns after it emerged his number had been online for years.

He then reportedly forgot the passcode, but it was believed that technical experts had succeeded in helping him recover messages for the inquiry.

A spokesman for the former prime minister said: Boris Johnson has fully co-operated with the inquirys disclosure process and has submitted hundreds of pages of material.

He has not deleted any messages.

The Times report refers to a technical issue in recovery of material that is for the technical team to address.

Baroness Heather Hallett is the chief of the inquiry (UK Covid-19 Inquiry/PA)

Mr Johnson was advised to stop using the phone and not access it again on security grounds while serving as prime minister in May 2021.

It had emerged his number had been freely available online for 15 years.

The device he used during crucial periods of the pandemic was believed to contain messages relating to the ordering of the lockdowns in 2020.

Labour frontbencher Nick Thomas-Symonds said it was typical and will be deeply disappointing to families who have lost loved ones and deserve nothing less than full disclosure.

The relatives of those who died from the virus will listen closely to Mr Johnsons evidence. Weeks of hearings have prompted renewed questions about the handling of the pandemic by the Government.

Former senior adviser Dominic Cummings has claimed Mr Johnson asked scientists whether Covid could be destroyed by blowing a special hairdryer up peoples noses.

He also alleged that Mr Johnson said he would rather let the bodies pile high than hit the economy with further restrictions  a claim supported by former senior aide Lord Udny-Lister, but which Mr Johnson has previously denied.

Boris Johnson at a Downing Street press conference with Sir Patrick Vallance (Hollie Adams/PA)

Meanwhile, extracts from the diaries of former chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance suggested Mr Johnson wanted to let Covid rip and believed it was just natures way of dealing with old people.

Cabinet Secretary Simon Case said Mr Johnson and his inner circle were basically feral, in messages shown to the inquiry.

Other key figures have defended aspects of the former Prime Ministers record, including Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove.

In an extract of his written statement published in January, the former prime minister said it was his duty to weigh up whether lockdown had done more harm than good.

He said there were simply no good choices available to government at the time, but that he always attached the highest priority to human life and public health.

According to the Telegraph, Mr Johnson also wants the inquiry to urgently look at the harms caused by Covid lockdowns.
Suella Braverman has warned the Conservatives face electoral oblivion in a matter of months if they introduce emergency Rwanda legislation which is destined to fail.

The former home secretary delivered the warning in a personal statement to the Commons focused on what she called mass, uncontrolled, illegal immigration involving thousands of mostly young men, many with values and social mores at odds with our own.

Mrs Braverman, who was sacked from her Cabinet job last month, questioned if the Government understands the unsustainable pressure placed on public finances and services, and the impact on community cohesion and national security.

She said Prime Minister Rishi Sunak should be commended for dedicating more time and toil than any of his predecessors to this endeavour before outlining her expectations for emergency legislation to revive the Rwanda deportation scheme.

The legislation attempts to enable Parliament to deem Rwanda a safe destination and address the concerns that saw the Supreme Court rule Mr Sunaks flagship asylum policy unlawful.

Mrs Braverman said: On Monday, the Prime Minister announced measures that start to better reflect public frustration on legal migration. He can now follow that up with a Bill that reflects public fury on illegal migration and actually stops the boats.

It is now or never. The Conservative Party faces electoral oblivion in a matter of months if we introduce yet another Bill destined to fail. Do we fight for sovereignty or do we let our party die?

I may not have always found the right words in the past, but I refuse to sit by and allow us to fail. The trust that millions of people placed in us cannot be discarded as an inconvenient detail.

If we summon the political courage to do what is truly necessary, difficult though it may be, to fight for the British people we will regain their trust. And, if the Prime Minister leads that fight, he has my total support.

Earlier in her speech, Mrs Braverman outlined her deeper concern about the possible substance of the Bill after noting she previously voiced concerns over the Illegal Migration Act  at one stage suggesting the latter legislation should have been scrapped in favour of a more robust alternative that excluded international and human rights laws.

She said: Previous attempts have failed because they did not address the root cause of the problem: expansive human rights laws flowing from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), replicated in Labours Human Rights Act, are being interpreted elastically by courts domestic and foreign to literally prevent our Rwanda plan from getting off the ground.

And this problem relates to so much more than just illegal arrivals. From my time as home secretary, I can say that the same human rights framework is producing insanities that the public would scarcely believe.

Foreign terrorists we cant deport  because of their human rights. Terrorists that we have to let back in  because of their human rights. Foreign rapists and paedophiles who should have been removed but are released back into the community only to reoffend  because of their human rights.

Mrs Braverman added: It is no secret that I support leaving the European Convention on Human Rights and replacing the Human Rights Act with a British Bill of Rights that protects the vulnerable and our national security, and finishes the job of Brexit by extricating us from a foreign court and restores real parliamentary supremacy.

But I accept that the Government wont do that and that its a debate for another day.

Crucially, when it comes to stopping the boats now, leaving the ECHR is not the only way to cut the Gordian Knot.

Emergency legislation would enable this if it meets the following tests.

Mrs Braverman said the Bill must address the Supreme Courts concerns about the safety of Rwanda and enable flights before the next election by blocking off all routes of challenge.

She said: The powers to detain and remove must be exercisable notwithstanding the Human Rights Act, the European Convention on Human Rights, the Refugee Convention, and all other international law.

Mrs Braverman said the Bill should enable removals to take place within days of people arriving legally and must enable the administrative detention of illegal arrivals until they are removed.

She said: And, just as we rapidly built Nightingale hospitals to deal with Covid, so we must build Nightingale-style detention facilities to deliver the necessary capacity. Greece and Turkey have done so and the only way to do this, as I advocated for in Government, is with support from the Ministry of Defence.

And fifth, Parliament must be prepared to sit over Christmas to get this Bill done.

All of this comes down to a simple question: who governs Britain? Where does ultimate authority for the UK lie? Is it with the British people and their elected representatives or is it in the vague, shifting and unaccountable concept of international law?
Council bosses who argued that Government plans to use land which once formed part of a famous RAF base to house asylum seekers should be quashed have lost a High Court fight.

West Lindsey District Council, in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, argued that a decision to use land at the disused RAF Scampton airfield, where the Dambusters were based during the Second World War, was unlawful.

A High Court judge ruled against the council on Wednesday.

Mrs Justice Thornton had considered arguments at a recent High Court hearing in in London.

A protest was held in Lincoln against the Governments plan to house migrants at RAF Scampton (PA)

Braintree District Council in Essex had made a similar complaint in relation to plans for land that once formed part of RAF Wethersfield.

A local resident, Gabriel Clarke-Holland, also challenged plans for Wethersfield.

The judge also dismissed those claims.

Ministers had argued that the claims should be dismissed.

Lawyers representing councils made complaints about ministers use of planning rules. They said ministers could rely on permitted development rights because there is no emergency.

Lawyers also raised concerns about migrants being housed for longer than an initially envisaged 12 months.

Home Office ministers and Levelling Up, Housing and Communities ministers fought the claims.

The Secretary of State for the Home Department has statutory responsibility to provide accommodation and other support to asylum seekers and their dependants who would otherwise be destitute, explained Mrs Justice Thornton, in a written ruling.

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of asylum seekers requiring accommodation has reached unprecedented levels.

She added: As a result of the strains on the asylum system, in January 2023, the Home Office approached the Ministry of Defence and other government departments enquiring about availability of Crown Estate assets which could be made suitable in the short term to assist with accommodating asylum seekers.

A submission to the minister for immigration, dated January 27 2023, sought a decision to explore the use of RAF Wethersfield and RAF Scampton to accommodate single adult male asylum seekers.

Braintree Council said it aimed to appeal and was disappointed.

Council leader Graham Butland said: We have worked since March to make a strong case to the court that the Home Office acted unlawfully when making the decision to use RAF Wethersfield to house asylum seekers.

We are of course disappointed with this outcome after months of work to present our case and evidence as we still believe it isnt an appropriate site for a development of this scale given its remote location and the lack of capacity in local services.

Nineteen Lancaster bombers, crewed by 133 airmen, took part in Operation Chastise on the night of May 16 1943, known as the Dambusters Raid.

Led by Wing Commander Guy Gibson, the raid targeted three dams in the industrialised Ruhr region of Germany using the bouncing bomb invented by Barnes Wallis.

They successfully breached the Mohne and Eder dams, and the Sorpe was damaged.

A spokeswoman for West Lindsey council said they would need to consider options.

Council leader Trevor Young added: West Lindsey District Council remains firmly of the view that the site of RAF Scampton is not suitable for accommodating 2,000 single adult male asylum seekers.

It was important for us to challenge the decision taken by the Government in March of this year and we made a strong case to the court.

We understand the concerns and frustrations of our community.
Efforts by Government to engage with disabled people are seen as superficial as groups feel excluded from having meaningful input into policies which affect them, a report has warned.

The Government has failed to learn lessons from concerns raised over the development of the national disability strategy, aimed at setting out actions to improve the everyday lives of all disabled people, a committee of MPs said.

For policies on improving lives for people with disabilities to be effective, the Government must improve its engagement with disabled groups, by listening to and acting on what they want, the Women and Equalities Committee said.

Women and Equalities Committee chair Caroline Nokes said the Government should collaborate with disabled people to develop a 10-year strategy (House of Commons/PA)

The parliamentary group, chaired by Conservative MP Caroline Nokes, was scathing in its verdict on the Governments strategy, saying it does not resemble a strategy but rather is a list of uncoordinated and largely pre-existing short-term policies.

The committee said the Government must, as a priority, work with disabled people to develop the strategy into a 10-year plan with clear targets along the way.

Disabled people were left feeling disempowered due to a lack of engagement on the strategy, the MPs said, with disabled peoples organisations telling the committee they had no meaningful input.

Groups including the Equality and Human Rights Commission and disability charities had also repeatedly asked the Government to increase engagement before launching the strategy, but the committee said the Government did not.

The MPs recommended that the Government appoint a national advisory group to review disability policy proposals, advise ministers on key issues, and develop, implement and monitor the strategy.

The report stated: It is vital the Government improves its evidence base on disability if it is to respond appropriately to disabled peoples lived experiences.

The committee also said Government had not included reference to its obligations under the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in its national strategy.

The report said: Despite having seven years to do so, the Government has made little to no progress against the UN committees recommendations following its 2016 investigation of the UK which found grave or systemic violations of disabled peoples rights.

The committee said the Government had refused to attend a meeting to give evidence to the UN in August, a move it branded disrespectful to both the UN committee and disabled people.

The report said: The Government should set out why it refused to attend the meeting, how and by when it will implement the UN committees recommendations, and what specifically it is doing to ensure that the whole of government follows the principles of the treaty.

Ms Nokes said: Ministers need to work much more proactively with disabled groups and develop the national disability strategy beyond short-term actions that were already in progress.

To support this approach, it should collaborate with disabled people to develop a 10-year strategy with an action plan for the first five years outlining clear targets and timescales for delivery.

The Disability Unit should have the final say on all disability policy sitting in or originating from other government departments to ensure that the whole of government works towards the same long-term strategic objectives. It should also have the power to challenge relevant ministers.

The Government needs to listen to the concerns that disabled people and their representative organisations had with the strategy, and work closely with them to deliver meaningful, long-lasting improvements to the lives of disabled people.

A Government spokesperson said: Listening to and amplifying the voices of disabled people is a key priority.

We have run an accessible consultation, with 25 events including 15 roundtables and three public forums, on our new Disability Action Plan which will make an immediate and tangible difference to disabled peoples everyday lives in 2024.

This sits alongside the National Disability Strategy which lays the foundations for long-term transformation.

The minister for disabled people, along with the team who work in the Disability Unit, regularly meet with disabled people and the charities and organisations representing them.
Four people who were removed from Boris Johnsons Covid-19 Inquiry hearing said they didnt want his apology.

The former Prime Ministers evidence was interrupted on Wednesday morning as he began an apology for the suffering during the pandemic.

Baroness Heather Hallett, chairwoman of the inquiry, ordered ushers to remove the women from the room.

Former prime minister Boris Johnson appeared before the UK Covid-19 Inquiry (UK Covid-19 Inquiry/PA)

They said they stood up as he began apologising to hold up signs that read: The Dead cant hear your apologies.

Speaking outside Dorland House in west London, Kathryn Butcher, 59, told reporters afterwards: We didnt want his apology.

When he tried to apologise we stood up. We didnt block anybody. We were told to sit down.

Fran Hall, 62, from Denham, Buckinghamshire, said that Baroness Hallett warned them that they would be asked to leave if they did not sit down.

Lady Hallett warned us to sit down and we didnt, we stood.

She warned us that if we didnt sit down she would have to ask the ushers to ask us to leave.

The women held photos of their loved ones and signs that read The dead cant hear your apologies'(Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Ms Hall said that she lost her 65-year-old husband, Steve Mead, to Covid-19 in October 2020.

She said her only regret was that their seats are now sitting empty inside the inquiry.

Ms Butcher, from London, said she lost her 56-year-old sister-in-law, Myrna Saunders, to Covid-19 in late March 2020.

She said that the former Prime Minister saw their signs.

He looked around once when Lady Hallett told us to sit down, she said.

He looked at us quickly.

He would have seen what the signs said.
Emergency legislation aimed at saving Rishi Sunaks Rwanda plan will do whatever it takes to protect the deal from further setbacks in the courts, a Home Office minister has insisted amid pressure from Tory MPs.

Chris Philp said the Bill, which he suggested would be published in a matter of days, will ensure the UKs partnership with Kigali is legally watertight.

The legislation is designed to enable Parliament to deem Rwanda a safe destination and address the concerns that saw the Supreme Court rule Mr Sunaks flagship asylum policy unlawful.

But its likely contents have already divided Tory MPs, with fears that too radical an approach could prompt ministerial resignations.

Centrist MPs have pushed the Prime Minister to respect the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and other international obligations but right-wingers want him to take a hardline stance to get flights off the ground as soon as possible.

Speaking to Times Radio on Wednesday, Mr Philp said: What I do know is that this Bill will do whatever it takes to make the Rwanda scheme legally watertight and doesnt get unpicked by the courts.

The policing minister also defended the scheme against criticism over the 140 million cost to the UK taxpayer which is likely to rise, arguing it will end up far lower than the cost of housing asylum seekers in Britain.

He conceded the deal with Kigali includes an agreement for the UK to accept a very small number of refugees from Rwanda but was unable to specify how many.

According to The Times, Mr Sunak has rejected calls for the UK to opt out of or exclude the ECHR in asylum cases but may be considering disapplying parts of the Human Rights Act  which gives domestic legal effect to the ECHR  to prevent court challenges to deportation flights.

Members of the right-wing European Research Group (ERG), as well as MPs from the Common Sense and New Conservative groupings, met in Parliament on Tuesday hours after Home Secretary James Cleverly celebrated signing a new treaty with Kigali.

The groups so-called star chamber of lawyers is set to scrutinise the legislation before MPs vote on it, as ERG chairman Mark Francois warned that MPs would not be bounced into backing the legislation without the time to assess it.

But Tory MPs from the One Nation faction have urged ministers to ensure the country follows rule of law rather than trying to undermine the oversight of the Strasbourg court.

Former cabinet minister Damian Green said he did not want to see tinkering with UK obligations under the ECHR or the Refugee Convention but to get on with the Rwanda plan.

He warned that it would be the wrong thing for this country to do, bad for our international reputation while also making it pretty much impossible for any Bill to make it through the House of Lords.

Damian Green said he did not want to see tinkering with UK obligations under the ECHR (Yui Mok/PA)

The UKs top court last month blocked the Rwanda policy over concerns that genuine refugees could be wrongly sent back to their countries of origin where they would face persecution.

In an attempt to rectify this, the new treaty means British and Commonwealth judges will preside over a newly established appeals process within Rwandas high court for exceptional cases.

Another key measure is a commitment that no-one will be removed by Rwanda to any other country except the UK.

Experts from the UK will also be seconded to Rwanda to assist with the processing of asylum decisions.

People sent to Rwanda will have free legal assistance funded by the taxpayer throughout the process.

Mr Cleverly said no new money was directly connected to the document after disputed reports of a 15 million top-up payment but did not rule out additional costs in the future.

After signing the deal with Mr Cleverly, Rwandas foreign affairs minister Vincent Biruta expressed his frustration at the judgment by some of the UKs top justices.

He suggested internal UK politics may have played a role and said his country has been unfairly treated by the courts, international organisations and the media.
Boris Johnson was reluctant to meet the leaders of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland during the pandemic because he thought it would be like a mini EU.

The former prime minister, a prominent Brexiteer, said it was optically wrong for him to be meeting the leaders of the devolved administrations (DAs) regularly.

But he admitted that with hindsight he should have done more to try to achieve a unified UK-wide response during the pandemic.

I think that in future, there has to be some way of having a joined-up, UK pandemic response, he said.

It just seems to me that something needs to be done to fix this whilst taking account of the legitimate concerns of the DAs, their legitimate desire to be involved and to contribute. But we need to find a better way to get a single message.

During the pandemic, then-Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon, Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford and Northern Irelands Arlene Foster sometimes adopted different approaches or made announcements ahead of Mr Johnson.

Appearing at the Covid inquiry, Mr Johnson said: It is no disrespect to the first minister of Scotland or anybody else, Northern Ireland, Wales they understandably were looking to talk directly to their own electorates, there were going to be times when they they differed from the main UK Government message.

And I thought that was sometimes at risk of being confusing at a time when we really needed to land messages simply. I could see and people endlessly playing back: Oh, but Scotland says this, England says this, Wales is doing a fire-breaker, a circuit breaker and so on.

Asked about an email from his senior aide Dominic Cummings, on who should attend high-level Cobra meetings, which suggested the devolved administrations leak what was said immediately afterwards, Mr Johnson told the inquiry: I think that sometimes that that was the case.

And that was, in my view, a problem. Perhaps he could have found a better way to manage it. But its that was certainly one of the problems.

As well as concerns over leaking, Mr Johnson appeared reluctant to meet the leaders in case it appeared they had an equal status.

His witness statement said: It is optically wrong, in the first place, for the UK prime minister to hold regular meetings with other DA first ministers, as though the UK were a kind of mini EU of four nations and we were meeting as a council in a federal structure.

That is not, in my view, how devolution is meant to work.

Despite that view, Mr Johnson said with hindsight he would have spent more time working with the DAs to bring them with me.

Asked to explain that apparent contradiction he said: Sometimes you can do things which you think are constitutionally a bit weird if it will help the general cause of fighting the pandemic.
Boris Johnsons highly anticipated two-day hearing before the UK Covid-19 Inquiry has begun.

Here are the key points from Wednesdays evidence so far:

 An apology backfires with protesters

In opening remarks to the inquiry, Mr Johnson said he was sorry for the loss and the pain suffered by Covid victims but four people were removed from the hearing room after they held up signs reading: The Dead cant hear your apologies.

Boris Johnson arrives to give evidence to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry at Dorland House in London (PA)

 Mr Johnson accepts personal responsibility for all decisions

The former PM acknowledged that mistakes were unquestionably made by his administration in its response to the pandemic, and said he took full responsibility for all the choices made.

 He should have twigged sooner

Mr Johnson admitted ministers should have twigged much sooner that there was a need for action but argued Whitehall more broadly had underestimated the scale of the challenge.

Lobby Akinnola holds a press conference alongside protesters outside the UK Covid-19 Inquiry (PA)

 The former PM defends his No 10 from toxic culture claims

The ex-PM admitted that his top team was male-dominated but played down claims of a dysfunctional work environment, suggesting that complacency and a lack of scrutiny would have been worse than some of the strongly worded criticism unveiled in WhatsApps shared between key figures.

 PM only read Sage minutes once or twice

Mr Johnson said he may have only read the minutes of hundreds of meetings held by the committee of scientists advising the government on Covid once or twice. He said he was provided with summaries but in hindsight hearing the full discussion might have been valuable.

 He denies taking a long holiday in early stages of Covid

Mr Johnson told the inquiry he did not take a long break in February half-term 2020 and was still working.

 He defends not chairing Cobra meetings in early 2020

The former PM was questioned about whether five Cobra meetings chaired by then health secretary Matt Hancock should have suggested the situation was serious enough to require his direct involvement. He said that the virus, between January and February that year, had been a cloud on the horizon and it was unclear whether it would become a typhoon.

 His recollection of tragic, tragic year brings up emotions

Mr Johnson looked on the verge of tears as he described 2020 as a tragic, tragic year.

 He defends the decision to impose Englands first lockdown on March 23 2020

Faced with rising cases and uncertainty about the impact of other measures, he no longer had the luxury of waiting, he said. It was over.

 He regrets describing long Covid as bollocks

A document from October 2020 including Boris Johnsons hand written comment on long Covid (UK Covid-19 Inquiry/PA)

A document from October 2020 described symptoms of the condition, beside which Mr Johnson wrote bollocks and this is Gulf War syndrome stuff.

I regret very much using that language and I should have thought about the possibility of future publication, the former prime minister said.

 It was optically wrong to hold meetings with the leaders of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

The then-prime minister thought it would risk being a mini EU, giving equal status to the leaders of the devolved administrations, although he said he would have liked them to have delivered a more united UK-wide message during the fight against Covid.

 Mr Johnson personally apologises to former official Helen MacNamara

Former deputy cabinet secretary Helen MacNamara (UK Covid-19 Inquiry/PA)

She was the subject of an expletive-laden message to Mr Johnson from his ex-adviser Dominic Cummings, who describing the then-deputy cabinet secretary as a c*** who must be out of our hair.

I dont remember seeing it at the time but I must have seen it because I was on the group, Mr Johnson said. I have rung Helen MacNamara to apologise to her for not having called it out.

 Mr Johnson defends Matt Hancock, saying he did a good job in difficult circumstances

He said he had considered moving the then-health secretary as he came under fire in 2020 but instead backed him, partly because there was no guarantee he would be trading up with a replacement minister.
A Labour former minister has said he does not feel safe as a gay man in the UK anymore.

Sir Chris Bryant said rhetoric used by equalities minister Kemi Badenoch in the Commons had contributed to his safety concerns.

Speaking after the women and equalities minister gave a statement on gender recognition reforms, Sir Chris said: I feel today, as a gay man, less safe than I did three years or five years ago.

Why? Sometimes because the rhetoric that is used, including by herself (Ms Badenoch), in the public debate.

The MP for Rhondda added: Many of us feel less safe today and when people over there cheer as they just did, it chills me to the bone, it genuinely does.

Kemi Badenoch (James MAnning/PA)

Sir Chris also asked what the minister had done since being in power to make more countries recognise same sex civil partnerships and marriages.

In response, Ms Badenoch said: He says that my rhetoric chills him to the bone, I would be really keen to hear exactly what it is I have said in this statement or previously that is so chilling.

Conservative former minister Sir Conor Burns later sought to counter suggestions that life was becoming worse for gay people.

The Bournemouth West MP said: Could I invite her to agree with me that despite some of the rhetoric that we have heard in the House today, the United Kingdom is an immeasurably better place to grow up as a gay person than it was in decades gone by?

Ms Badenoch commended the Tory MPs measured tone, adding: It is a model I think for members on the other side of the House. There is so much that we have done even under this specific Government, even under my watch.

A lot of the work we have been doing around our HIV action plan, around trans healthcare. We have established five new community-based clinics for adults in the country.

There is a lot that we are doing, so it is wrong to characterise us as not caring about LGBT people.

It also sends the wrong signal to our international partners. If they feel that we are doing well, it is not because of what we are doing, it is what members across the House are saying.

SNP equalities spokesperson Kirsten Oswald meanwhile told the Commons the Conservatives seem much more interested in culture wars than looking after the rights of some of the most vulnerable.

The MP for East Renfrewshire added: The UK is travelling rapidly backwards on the rights of LGBT people and that this decision is very much out of step with other progressive countries around the world.

Ms Oswald also accused the Government of being missing in action in regards to banning conversion therapy.

Meanwhile, Labour former minister Ben Bradshaw (Exeter) said Ms Badenoch was attacking transgender people by introducing the new measures.
A new lawsuit has alleged that Sean Diddy Combs, along with other people, sex trafficked and gang raped a teenager.

The complaint submitted anonymously via the name Jane Doe to the Southern District of New York court on Wednesday is the latest case against the 54-year-old rapper and business mogul.

Combs has strongly denied the allegations and on Wednesday wrote on Instagram: Enough is enough.

For the last couple of weeks, I have sat silently and watched people try to assassinate my character, destroy my reputation and my legacy.

Sickening allegations have been made against me by individuals looking for a quick payday.

Let me be absolutely clear: I did not do any of the awful things being alleged. I will fight for my name, my family and for the truth.

The complaint by Ms Doe claims that in 2003, when she was 17 years old, she was sex trafficked and gang raped by Combs, Bad Boy Records president Harve Pierre, and an unnamed third person.

She alleges that she met Combs at a lounge in the Detroit area and subsequently travelled on a private jet to a studio in New York.

Ms Doe claims she was sexually assaulted by Pierre during the flight before being raped by all three people at the studio.

A statement from her lawyer, Douglas H Wigdor  founding partner of Wigdor LLP, to the PA news agency said: As alleged in the complaint, defendants preyed on a vulnerable high school teenager as part of a sex trafficking scheme that involved plying her with drugs and alcohol and transporting her by private jet to New York City where she was gang raped by the three individual defendants at Mr Combs studio.

The depravity of these abhorrent acts has, not surprisingly, scarred our client for life.

A previous lawsuit filed by US singer Cassie, whose real name is Casandra Ventura, against Combs was settled in November.

Cassie and Sean Combs who settled a lawsuit alleging abuse (Ian West/PA)

Ms Ventura alleged she was a victim of rape and violent behaviour during their decade-long relationship, which Combs has vehemently denied along with other allegations.

Last month, Combs also stepped down as chairman of his cable television network Revolt.

Two more women have also come forward to accuse him of sexual abuse in lawsuits.

Three-time Grammy winner Combs has hit songs including Ill Be Missing You, Cant Nobody Hold Me Down and Give Me Love.

He founded the label Bad Boy Records in the early 1990s, for which Ms Ventura signed a 10-album deal with in 2006 at the age of 19.

Combs and Bad Boy Records have been contacted for a response.
Israeli forces battled Hamas militants in southern Gaza on Tuesday, prompting a U.N. warning of an "even more hellish scenario" as fighting pushes civilians into a steadily shrinking area of the besieged territory.

The army launched its ground invasion in Gaza's north, sending in troops and tanks to destroy Hamas and free hostages taken in unprecedented Oct. 7 cross-border attacks.

After an air and ground assault that has displaced tens of thousands and reduced much of the north to rubble, the army said it had moved south as it targets "Hamas strongholds throughout the Gaza Strip."

Israeli tanks, armoured personnel carriers and bulldozers were seen near the southern Gaza city of Khan Yunis, forcing already displaced civilians to pack up and flee again, witnesses told AFP.

With top Hamas leaders still at large and many hostages still in militant hands, the Israeli army said it was taking "aggressive" action against Palestinian militants in Khan Yunis, Gaza's second-largest city.

Israel declared war on Hamas after the militant group's Oct. 7 attacks that killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and which saw around 240 hostages taken, according to Israeli authorities.

In retaliation for the worst attack in its history, Israel has vowed to eradicate Hamas and secure the release of all the hostages held in the Gaza Strip.

The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza says the war has killed nearly 15,900 people in the territory, around 70 percent of them women and children.

'Nowhere safe'

International aid organisations have warned that civilians in the densely populated Strip are running out of places to flee to.

"Nowhere is safe in Gaza and there is nowhere left to go," said Lynn Hastings, U.N. humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories.

"If possible, an even more hellish scenario is about to unfold, one in which humanitarian operations may not be able to respond," Hastings said in a statement.

Ambulances, trucks and other vehicles delivered more bloodied, dust-covered casualties to Khan Yunis's Nasser hospital, including children.

Mohammed Saloul said he had received a call saying his sister had been killed in an air strike on a school where displaced people were sheltering.

"We headed there and asked the medics to help us but they said they couldn't access it, so we had to carry her body ourselves," he said.

After visiting another medical facility in the city, the European Hospital, International Committee of the Red Cross president Mirjana Spoljaric said she saw horrors that were hard to describe.

"What shocked me the most were the children with atrocious injuries and at the same time having lost their parents with no one looking after them," she said in a video.

Their belongings piled onto donkey carts, battered vehicles and even camels, Gazans headed south to try to escape the expanding Israeli offensive.

An estimated 1.8 million people are displaced in Gaza  roughly three-quarters of the population, according to U.N. figures.

An Israeli order for people to move from Khan Yunis to the southern city of Rafah "created panic, fear and anxiety", according to Philippe Lazzarini, head of the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA).

People were being pushed into an area that is less than one-third of the Gaza Strip, with roads to the south clogged, he said.

In northern Gaza, the military said it had encircled the Jabalia refugee camp and also raided a Hamas Internal Security Forces command and control centre.

It said the number of Israeli soldiers killed since the war began had risen to 80.

The World Health Organization said that it had almost completely emptied its aid warehouses in southern Gaza after being "advised" by Israel's army that "active combat" was looming.

Israel has denied that it ordered the WHO to empty its two warehouses in Khan Yunis.

Communications blackout

Key ally the United States has cautioned Israel to do more to avert civilian casualties as operations shift to the south.

Israel on Monday said it was not seeking to force Palestinian civilians to permanently leave their homes, but that it was instead seeking support from aid groups to improve infrastructure in a tiny coastal area of Gaza named Al-Mawasi.

As well as dropping leaflets telling Palestinian civilians to evacuate, the army has been warning people in Gaza to leave certain areas ahead of impending strikes via messages to mobile phones.

But on Monday, all mobile and telephone services were cut across Gaza, according to Palestinian telecommunications firm Paltel.

Media workers have paid a heavy price reporting on the conflict.

The Committee to Protect Journalists, a New York-based rights group, said it had documented 63 journalists and media workers killed in the war: 56 Palestinians, four Israelis and three Lebanese.

The fighting follows the collapse on Friday of a Qatar-mediated truce that saw scores of Israeli and other hostages released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Hamas has ruled out more releases until a permanent ceasefire is agreed.

Qatar's ruler, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, said his country was "constantly working to renew" the truce and denounced what he called "shameful" international inaction over the war.

The war has sparked fears of a wider regional conflict, with frequent exchanges of fire with Iran-backed Hezbollah across Israel's border with Lebanon.

The Israeli military said its fighter jets had struck Hezbollah positions in response to cross-border fire from Lebanon.

The Lebanese army said one of its soldiers was killed by Israeli fire on Tuesday  the first such death since cross-border hostilities began in October.

The Israel-occupied West Bank has also seen a surge in violence, with more than 250 Palestinians killed there since the war began, according to Palestinian authorities. (AFP)
Severe weather warnings have been issued across the UK as heavy rain is expected to continue falling on saturated ground.

The Met Office has warned that journey times are likely to be made longer due to spray and flooding on roads, while bus and train services will probably be affected.

It is also likely that some homes and business will experience flooding as up to 80mm of rain falls in some parts of the west of the UK.

Neil Armstrong, chief forecaster at the Met Office, said: After a relatively calm day on Wednesday, wet and windy weather will move in from the west on Wednesday night.

 A powerful jet stream in the Atlantic brings low pressure systems towards the UK this week  Wet and windy weather will spread northeast later this week and over the weekend pic.twitter.com/GJ0b9TtBDX  Met Office (@metoffice) December 6, 2023

Low pressure will drive several days of unsettled conditions with heavy rainfall the main concern.

We have issued a number of severe weather warnings for rain across the UK, as much as 80mm of rain could fall in some areas of the west, particularly higher ground.

Higher ground in eastern Scotland could even see up to 100mm of rain. Our warnings are likely to be updated so keep up to date with the Met Office forecast.

The rain will be falling on already very wet ground and where there is still lying snow in the north-west of England and parts of Scotland, snow melt will exacerbate the risk of flooding.

It is important to check for flood warnings in your area issued by your local environment agency.

More rain is expected across various parts of the UK from this evening into tomorrow. This may cause further flooding. Find out more in our latest news update   Met Office (@metoffice) December 6, 2023

Yellow weather warnings have been issued for Thursday in the South West and south Wales, the Midlands, parts of Northern England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The Met Office said areas of low pressure will bring wet and windy conditions, displacing the cold weather that has seen frosts, snow and ice in some regions.

It is expected that the highest rain totals will be focused in western parts of the UK over the next few days, falling on already sodden ground.

A second low pressure will see heavy rain through Thursday and further weather fronts during Friday and Saturday morning.

Rain and ice warnings affecting northern England and Scotland tonight and tomorrow with snow falling on high ground  This could cause impacts to roads on highest peaks  pic.twitter.com/dzQSFw6b0I  Met Office (@metoffice) December 6, 2023

There will then be a brief calmer spell in the southern half of the UK as a ridge of higher pressure moves in through Saturday afternoon, though showery rain will continue in the north, the Met Office said.

Another area of low pressure could move close to Northern Ireland on Sunday, bringing strong winds and further spells of rain.

There are currently 22 flood warnings and 111 flood alerts in place across England.

In Wales, there is one flood alert for South Pembrokeshire. In Scotland, there are flood alerts for Fife, Tayside, Dumfries and Galloway, Dundee and Angus, and Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City.

RAC Breakdown spokesman Simon Williams urged drivers to be wary of flooded roads.

Drivers in the worst-affected areas will need to be on their guard for floods and standing water, he said.

Anyone tempted to drive through water that is too deep for their vehicle is risking their safety and a very expensive repair bill near to Christmas or, worse still, the prospect of an insurance write-off.

The best advice is to turn around and go another way if theres any doubt about the waters depth.

From a road safety perspective, we urge drivers to slow down and leave plenty of stopping distance behind the vehicle in front.

Its also important to remember the risk of losing control due to aquaplaning, which is what happens when a layer of water gets between the tyres and the road surface, making it impossible to steer, brake or accelerate.
Michael Gove admitted he is concerned about acute financial pressures on local government, but blamed poor leadership for an increase in the number of councils which have declared effective bankruptcy.

The Local Government Association and others have warned that growing funding pressures threaten vital frontline services, with the prospect of more councils joining the seven which have issued a section 114 notice since 2020.

Giving evidence to the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee on Wednesday, Mr Gove was asked for his assessment of council finances.

He said: I am concerned. I think its important to put into context some of the issues that are being raised.

So I think its important to recognise that core spending power has increased and the amount of money that central government is allocating to local government has increased above inflation.

Nottingham City Council has become the latest to issue a section 114 notice (Peter Byrne/PA)

Mr Gove said he had met with senior local government figures earlier in the day, adding they agreed a recent estimate that one in five councils could soon declare bankruptcy was at the top-ish end of the scale.

But he insisted poor decision-making at some councils rather than Government funding cuts had led to financial distress.

Mr Gove added: I think that certainly if one looks back, it is absolutely the case of each of the local authorities that have had to issue section 114 notices have had failures of leadership management and governance, and some have taken risks that were not merited.

Its certainly the case also that were in a situation where local government, like other parts of the public sector and government, is facing significant pressure.

It may be the case in the future, that there are some local authorities that have been relatively well managed that will face particularly acute pressures, but I wouldnt want to at this stage predict that a section 114 notice will be issued by a local authority that has been well managed.

So far there has been a direct linkage between poor leadership and the subsequent issuing of section 114 notices.

Mr Gove declined to reveal how many councils his department had identified as at risk of failure, but said it was significantly fewer than one in five.

He added: It is fair to say that there are systemic pressures and we have an understanding of what is happening in local authorities across the piece. Its the systemic issues that particularly preoccupying concerns.

Mr Gove was challenged on how councils will cope with expected further cuts in 2025 and beyond.

He said: I wouldnt want to pre-empt the spending review that will inevitably occur.

(PA Graphics)

I think its first of all the case that the decisions taken in the autumn statement were designed to ensure that we had stronger long term growth.

That strong long term growth will improve the public finances and that will be taken into account at the time of the next spending review.

Childrens social care services have emerged as a key driver of financial pressures on councils, with concerns over the involvement of the private sector and subsequent rising costs.

Mr Gove acknowledged the problem and questioned whether private firms should be providing certain services.

He said: One of the most acute [problems] is the way in which residential childrens homes are to a significant extent, to a greater extent than one would want, owned and managed by private equity funds who are engaged in profiteering.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak insists measures including visa restrictions for migrants working in social care are necessary (Dan Kitwood/PA)

The scale of the profit they make is, to my mind, excessive.

Mr Gove added wider reform was needed to prevent children ending up in residential care, but suggested the Government could consider intervening to adjust the market.

He said: The private equity model is appropriate for the provision of some services, but in many cases I find it disturbing the way in which they are extracting not just the necessary profit in order to make sure that they have a successful business model, but an excessive level from the public purse.

The Governments announcement that people entering the UK to work in adult social care will be subject to visa restrictions which prevent them from bringing family dependants has led to warnings of further pressure on a severely stretched workforce.

Mr Gove said the impact of the changes was being assessed.

He added: We anticipate that there will be a reduction, but not a dramatic reduction, in the number of people who are coming in to work in the adult social care sector.

When challenged on how he knows the impact will not be catastrophic, Mr Gove added: I cant be certain of anything, but the figures that I have examined were modelling that was conducted by the Home Office and the particular change that was made I think will have an impact on the margins, undoubtedly, but not a significant impact.
Google is rolling out an upgraded version of its generative AI platform Bard, which promises to be its most capable model yet as the group steps up its competition with ChatGPT owner OpenAI.

The tech giant is launching its new AI foundation model, Gemini, in Bard and other products across the US and more than 170 countries worldwide  but is not yet launching in the UK.

Google and Alphabet chief executive Sundar Pichai said it will be the biggest upgrade to Bard since it launched.

Googles Gemini model is not yet being rolled out across the UK (Google/PA)

He said: Were taking the next step on our journey with Gemini, our most capable and general model yet, with state-of-the-art performance across many leading benchmarks.

This new era of models represents one of the biggest science and engineering efforts weve undertaken as a company.

It comes as rapid advances in AI pick up pace, following ChatGPTs latest release in March, with Google following suit amid a wave of next generation generative AI models, which experts predict will be significantly more advanced.

Google claims Gemini is the first AI model to beat human experts in its range of intelligence tests.

It plans to launch in English first, but will expand to different languages and other countries in the near future.

The group did not say when it will be available in the UK, but confirmed it is in the process of granting the UK AI safety institute  unveiled at the recent AI Summit  with access to its most capable models for research and safety purposes.

Google said Gemini will be multi-modal, meaning it will be able to operate and combine different types of information across words, pictures, video and sound.

Gemini is also our most flexible model yet  able to efficiently run on everything from data centres to mobile devices, it said.

Bard will use Gemini Pro  one of three levels of the model  to allow more advanced reasoning, planning, understanding and more.

Gemini will also be built into its Pixel 8 Pro smartphones, powering new features such as summarise in its recorder app, as well as smart reply in Google keyboard, starting with WhatsApp messaging.

It confirmed it will be available across more products and services in the coming months, such as Search, Ads, Chrome and Duet AI, which is Googles AI-powered cloud assistant.

The group said it will be building in safeguards while working collaboratively with governments and experts to help head off the mounting risks from AI.
Cancer warnings are being put on urinal mats in pubs, restaurants and football grounds in a bid to drive up early detection.

The NHS in England is putting the message Blood in your pee? Contact your GP practice on mats as a way of urging men to seek help for the major symptom of bladder, kidney and prostate cancer.

Pubs, restaurants, shops, hotels and sports stadiums will be among the public places using the mats, and mens workplaces will also be targeted.

The NHS has joined forces with P-Wave, a urinal products brand, to deliver the message.

The mats sit inside urinals so men can read the message as they pee (NHS England/PA)

Professor Peter Johnson, NHS England national clinical director for cancer, said: Having blood in your pee  even just once  shouldnt be ignored because it can be a sign of cancer, so it needs to be checked out by your GP team.

Cancer survival is at an all-time high, and were seeing more cancers than ever before being picked up at an early stage  and this partnership with P-wave is just one of the many ways we are helping people to be aware of possible cancer symptoms.

While this initiative is about helping men to spot the signs of cancer, everyone needs to be more aware.

Please look for any changes that may be unusual for you and get checked out early. It could save your life.

Other common symptoms of bladder, kidney and prostate cancer include peeing very often, sudden need to pee or a burning sensation when peeing.

People should also seek help if they have difficulty peeing, a lump or swelling in the back, under the ribs, in the neck, or pain at the side between the ribs and the hip.

A poll of 2,000 men by Censuswide to support the campaign found that nearly half (46%) thought blood in pee was not a symptom of cancer, while 39% would wait to see blood multiple times before seeing a GP.

More than half of men in England use a public urinal at least once a week, the poll found, while 71% said they would be more likely to contact their GP practice if they saw messaging on a urinal mat and were experiencing blood in their pee.

Adil Malik, from London, was diagnosed with cancer at a young age.

Mr Malik said: I first noticed blood in my pee in 2021. As a fit and healthy 28-year-old, the last thing I thought it could be was cancer.

But after losing a vast amount of weight very quickly, I decided to reach out to my local GP practice, which led to my diagnosis of kidney cancer.

Thankfully, it was treatable with help from the amazing team at the Royal Free Hospital.

My story shows that cancer can affect people of any age and the NHS and P-Wave partnership is a great way to remind people to contact their GP practice if they notice a change in their body which doesnt feel right.
Rishi Sunak is under pressure from all wings of his party as Tory MPs await the promised Rwanda legislation set to accompany the newly signed treaty with Kigali.

Designed to designate Rwanda a safe destination and address the concerns that saw the Supreme Court deem the Governments flagship asylum policy unlawful, the Bill could be published in a matter of days.

But its likely contents have already divided Tory MPs, with fears that too radical an approach could prompt ministerial resignations.

Centrist MPs have pushed the Prime Minister to respect the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and other international obligations, but right-wingers want him to take a hardline stance on the role of the European Court of Human Rights and human rights law to get flights off the ground as soon as possible.

According to The Times, Mr Sunak has rejected calls for the UK to opt out of or exclude the ECHR in asylum cases but may be considering disapplying parts of the Human Rights Act  which gives domestic legal effect to the ECHR  to prevent court challenges to deportation flights.

Members of the right-wing European Research Group (ERG), as well as MPs from the Common Sense and New Conservative groupings, met in Parliament on Tuesday hours after Home Secretary James Cleverly celebrated the treaty agreement.

The groups so-called star chamber of lawyers are set to scrutinise the legislation before MPs vote on it, as ERG chairman Mark Francois warned that MPs would not be bounced into backing the legislation without the time to assess it.

But Tory MPs from the One Nation faction have urged ministers to ensure the country follows rule of law rather than trying to undermine the oversight of the Strasbourg court.

Former cabinet minister Damian Green said he did not want to see tinkering with UK obligations under the ECHR or the Refugee Convention but to get on with the Rwanda plan.

He warned that it would be the wrong thing for this country to do, bad for our international reputation, while also making it pretty much impossible for any Bill to make it through the House of Lords.

Damian Green (Yui Mok/PA)

The UKs top court last month blocked the Rwanda policy over concerns that genuine refugees could be wrongly sent back to their countries of origin where they would face persecution.

In an attempt to rectify this, the new treaty means British and Commonwealth judges will preside over a newly established appeals process within Rwandas high court for exceptional cases.

Another key measure is a commitment that no-one will be removed by Rwanda to any other country except the UK.

Experts from the UK will also be seconded to Rwanda to assist with the processing of asylum decisions.

People sent to Rwanda will have free legal assistance funded by the taxpayer throughout the process.

Mr Cleverly said no new money was directly connected to the document after disputed reports of a 15 million top-up payment, but did not rule out additional costs in the future.

After signing the deal with Mr Cleverly, Rwandas foreign affairs minister Vincent Biruta expressed his frustration at the judgment by some of the UKs top justices.

He suggested internal UK politics may have played a role and said his country has been unfairly treated by the courts, international organisations and the media.
Robert Jenrick has resigned as immigration minster in a blow to Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks grip on the Conservative Party.

There had been speculation that Mr Jenricks response to the Governments latest efforts to get its plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda up and running would act as a bellwether for others on the right of the Tory party.

Walking away from his role as immigration minister so soon after the Government announced its latest proposals, Mr Jenrick has created a difficult situation for a PM seeking to assure his party and potential voters that the plan is credible.

It is with great sadness that I have written to the Prime Minister to tender my resignation as Minister for Immigration. I cannot continue in my position when I have such strong disagreements with the direction of the Governments policy on immigration. pic.twitter.com/Zg3ezFJr8t  Robert Jenrick (@RobertJenrick) December 6, 2023

Mr Jenrick was after all given the job in the Home Office by Mr Sunak little more than a year ago, in October 2022.

Mr Jenrick told the Prime Minister on Wednesday evening that his new draft legislation aimed at stopping small boat crossings does not go far enough and is a triumph of hope over experience.

Speculation over his resignation had reached fever pitch when Mr Jenrick was not in the Commons to hear James Cleverly make the case for the proposals.

Mr Jenricks absence spoke almost as loudly as the Labour MPs who shouted heckles to Mr Cleverly over the whereabouts of his immigration minister while the Home Secretary made his statement.

Reports in recent weeks suggested Mr Jenrick wanted to go further in tackling both legal and illegal migration than Mr Cleverly was prepared to go, and he had used his platform as immigration minister to deliver tough rhetoric on the need to crack down on both.

Now released from the constraints of collective responsibility, Mr Jenricks criticisms of the Governments plans have spilled out into the open.

Mr Jenrick has served in Government under four prime ministers in four different roles since first becoming a minister in 2018.

The 41-year-old father-of-three, who grew up in Shropshire, is a trained solicitor who worked in corporate law at leading international law firms in London and Moscow.

He then turned his attentions to business, working in senior commercial management at the world-famous global art firm Christies.

Wolverhampton-born, Mr Jenrick entered the Commons as MP for Newark in Nottinghamshire in a 2014 by-election.

Theresa May promoted him to a Treasury minister in January 2018.

Ms Mays demise saw him climb higher, with Boris Johnson promoting him to secretary of state for housing, communities and local government when the former premier took office in July 2019.

But his time around the cabinet table ended in controversy, when he was sacked after a string of high-profile and damaging accusations.

Robert Jenrick (left) during his time in the Treasury (David Mirzoeff/PA)

His departure followed the unlawful approval of a Tory donors housing development and eyebrow-raising journeys during lockdown.

Mr Johnson stuck by Mr Jenrick despite anger over his approval of media mogul Richard Desmonds 1,500-home Westferry Printworks development in east London.

The permission came the day before a new council community levy would have cost Mr Desmonds company an extra 40 million.

Mr Jenrick later had to quash his own approval, conceding the decision was unlawful due to apparent bias.

There was also criticism over Mr Jenricks decision to travel 150 miles from his London property to his Herefordshire home, and then journeying for more than an hour to visit his parents in Shropshire while the country was in Covid lockdown.

The role also saw him take on another thorny issue where a misstep can draw the ire of the Tory backbenches  planning reform.

With controversies mounting, and his popularity fraying with Tory MPs who objected to what they feared would be too much housebuilding in the wrong place, a reshuffle saw Mr Jenrick shown the door.

The arrival of Liz Truss in Number 10 saw Mr Jenrick return to Government for a short stint in the Department of Health.

Then in October 2022, with Rishi Sunak taking the top job, Mr Jenrick was appointed immigration minister.

The role was never going to be an easy task, with many in the Tory party and beyond calling for the Government to reduce the number of people crossing the English Channel in small boats and while also reducing legal migration.

A commitment to stop the boats was one of Mr Sunaks five pledges at the start of year, putting Mr Jenricks brief right at the top of the Governments priorities.

But despite Mr Sunaks stated commitment to do everything it takes to make the Rwanda scheme operational, Mr Jenricks resignation letter suggests he did not believe the Prime Minister was prepared to go far enough.

Mr Jenrick said he had been pushing for the strongest possible piece of emergency legislation, but wrote on social media that had could not continue in post when I have such strong disagreements with the direction of the Governments policy on immigration.
The SNP should drop its powersharing agreement with the Scottish Greens and govern as a minority party at Holyrood, Kate Forbes has said.

The former SNP leadership contender blamed the Greens policies for the Scottish Government losing support, saying they want to over-regulate rural communities.

Ms Forbes has previously said the SNP should check in with its members on the Bute House Agreement, the deal which led to the smaller pro-independence party entering government after the last Holyrood election.

But she went further in an interview with the New Statesman, saying the deal should be repealed and the SNP should operate again as a one-party minority government.

Ms Forbes was narrowly defeated by Humza Yousaf in the SNP leadership contest earlier this year.

Humza Yousaf continued the powersharing deal with the Greens when he took over in Bute House (Andrew Milligan/PA)

He continued the powersharing agreement, which brought Green co-leaders Patrick Harvie and Lorna Slater into government as ministers.

Ms Forbes, the MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, told the New Statesman her partys momentum has stalled and bold change is needed.

She said: We were elected on a SNP manifesto, not a Green Party manifesto or the Bute House Agreement.

Nearly all the issues that have lost us support in the last year are found in the Bute House Agreement and not in the SNP manifesto.

I see it particularly acutely with the economy and in rural Scotland, as the Greens appear to want to over-regulate rural communities out of existence and hike taxes to a rate that will ultimately reduce public revenue.

That is despite the cost-of-living crisis hitting our economy and the rural sector particularly hard.

Ms Forbes said the SNP needs bold action to regain its momentum (Jane Barlow/PA)

She said past SNP governments had managed to speak for the fisherman in Buchan as well as the working mum in Glasgow, and she called for a return to that approach.

Ms Forbes also discussed the reaction to her conservative religious views during the SNP leadership contest.

A backlash to comments she made about same-sex marriage saw some of her early backers withdraw their support in the race.

The MSP said: I dont think that I was indulging culture wars or appealing to a particular base: I was genuinely answering honestly, and that isnt as neatly characterised as perhaps a politician that is trying to be nasty for nastinesss sake.

She said many in public life are now living in fear of being cancelled or receiving abuse, leading to them distorting their real views.

Asked if she would consider another run at the SNP leadership, she said she would only consider standing if I felt like I was the right kind of leader for the party and the country at that point in time.

Responding to Ms Forbes comments, an SNP spokesman said: Only a matter of months ago, SNP members voted to elect Humza Yousaf as SNP leader and First Minister after he stood on a platform endorsing the Scottish Governments co-operation agreement, which 95% of party members voted to support.

The Bute House Agreement has already delivered vital steps to tackle climate change, a better deal for tenants, and action to reduce poverty and inequality  such as an increase to the Scottish Child Payment and free bus travel for under-22s.

And the SNP is fully focused on taking action to support households through the cost-of-living crisis by, for example, freezing council tax.

A spokesman for the Scottish Greens said: Kate Forbes lost the leadership contest for her party which, some months later, continues to be a considerable source of relief for all those who, like the majority of SNP members and ourselves, believe in a progressive, inclusive form of politics working on behalf of everyone in Scotland.

Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy said: From the reckless plans to impose Highly Protected Marine Areas on coastal communities, to the flawed gender self-ID Bill, and the rowing back on major road upgrades, the Greens bizarre policies are arrogantly out-of-touch with the real priorities of Scotland.

Kate Forbes is clearly all too happy to shout from the sidelines but she needs to start backing up her rhetoric.

She failed to step up and support our motion of no confidence in Lorna Slater, who should have been sacked for her shambolic deposit return scheme.

Until she stops toeing the party line in crucial parliamentary votes, these are empty words.
Support for Ukraine will top the agenda when Lord Cameron makes his first visit to the US as Foreign Secretary.

He will arrive in Washington later for a two-day visit, as world leaders grapple with the ongoing battle in Ukraine as well as the escalating crisis in Gaza.

The visit comes at a crunch time for Kyiv, with concerns about the provision of US military aid amid deep divisions in Congress about new funding and support.

The Foreign Secretary is expected to meet US secretary of state Antony Blinken and Republican and Democratic congressional leaders as part of the trip.

Ahead of the Washington visit, Lord Cameron announced a 37 million package of winter humanitarian support for the country as it continues to fight Russian President Vladimir Putins forces.

The crisis in the Middle East will also top discussions, as Israel widens its offensive into southern Gaza amid growing fears about the fate of civilians.

US secretary of state Antony Blinken and Lord Cameron will meet in Washington (Henry Nicholls/PA)

Lord Cameron said: The UK and the US are deeply bound by a shared mission to defend the values that provide security and prosperity for us all.

That is why we remain unwavering in our support of Ukraine. If we allow Putins aggression to succeed, it will embolden those who challenge democracy and threaten our way of life. We cannot let them prevail.

We also stand united in the Middle East, working together to ensure long-term security and stability in the region, and in responding to the challenges posed by China.

The Foreign Office said that the UK on Wednesday would also impose new sanctions to target foreign military suppliers it accused of propping up Putins war machine with exports of equipment to Russia.

Earlier Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said that the world cannot get bored with the conflict in Ukraine, nearly two years on from the Russian invasion.

He told ITV News: I accept it is unlikely to be a quick conclusion but I also passionately believe that we cannot afford, and of course the Ukrainians cant, a Putin win.

We cannot have a situation in the 21st century where an autocratic leader thinks it is OK to invade a democratic neighbour and the rest of the world will just give up and get bored of it.
Six people were found dead and three injured after a string of homicides and shootings unfolded across two Texas communities on Tuesday, and a suspect was taken into custody and charged with capital murder, police said.

Four people were killed and two police officers shot in Austin on Tuesday, authorities said. The suspect, who was identified by police Wednesday as Shane James, Jr., was also linked to the deaths of two people near San Antonio, they added.

Interim Austin Police Chief Robin Henderson told reporters early Wednesday that the man was arrested after he crashed his vehicle while speeding away from a shootout with a police officer that left them with multiple gunshot wounds.

She said that the series of violent incidents began in the morning and extended into the evening.

She added that her department and other law enforcement had not determined these incidents were connected to the last incident that occurred tonight when the male suspect was taken into custody.

The Travis County District Attorney's Office said it is in communication with law enforcement.

"Our hearts break for the shooting victims, injured officers, their families, and our communities impacted by yesterday's senseless and tragic gun violence," Jose Garza's office said in a statement.

It is expected that the suspect will remain in custody pending trial, according to Garza.

Austral Loop neighborhood shooting in Austin Texas (Jay Janner / USA Today Network via Imagn)

Shootings across Texas

The first call came in at around 10:43 a.m. local time when police were told that a sergeant with the Austin Independent School District police force had been shot, Henderson said.

Wayne Sneed, the school districts police chief, told NBC affiliate KXAN that the officer had been shot in the leg but was expected to be released from the hospital.

Shortly after that incident, Henderson said, police received multiple calls about a double homicide in Austin involving a male and female victim.

Later, she said, a male cyclist was shot, although he suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

At around 6:54 p.m., Henderson said, the male suspect immediately opened fire on an officer responding to a burglary call after he was found in the backyard of the residence.

The officer returned fire, but suffered multiple gunshot wounds and moved to a position to cover, she said, adding that they were transported to a local hospital where they were in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries.

The suspect sped away from the scene and was arrested after crashing his vehicle, she said.

Later, officers went inside the residence to check the welfare of those inside, she added. Two apparent victims of the suspect were located inside with fatal injuries and pronounced deceased on scene.

At a separate news conference, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said the deaths of two more people were being investigated in connection with the shootings in Austin.

Investigators there had linked the suspect with a residence near San Antonio, he said.

Officers saw water coming into the building and decided to force entry, he said.

There, he said, they found two apparent victims, both believed to be in their 50s.

Salazar added that the suspect had links to this house, but he wasnt certain what his relationship was with the people inside.

Right now our CSI unit is inside documenting the crime scene and then we will do a more thorough search but at this point, he said.

He added that he believed the bodies were relocated to the property where they were wedged inside a very small room and theyre up against the door.

It was not immediately clear Wednesday morning how the victims in Bexar County died.

Who is the suspect?

James served as an Army Infantry Officer from February 2013 to August 2015, an Army spokesperson said. He had no deployments and "separated from service" on Aug. 17, 2015. James' last rank was first lieutenant, the spokesperson said.

The Bexar County Sheriff's Office said that James had been arrested in January 2022 on three charges of assault, bodily injury of a family member. Authorities would not confirm the name of the relative.

Gov. Greg Abbott thanked law enforcement and said that "violence will never be tolerated."

"Texans grieve for the loved ones of the six Texans who were murdered by a hardened criminal who must never see the light of day again," he said in a statement. "The State of Texas will provide all resources necessary to impose the full weight of law on this criminal for his despicable crimes."
A dog's snout

Two dogs were euthanized following an attack that left a 6-year-old dead and a woman injured, authorities said on Wednesday.

The attack occurred Tuesday morning at a home in Portland, Oregon.

Police said officers were dispatched to the home, where they found the 6-year-old who had been mauled to death. They added that an adult female was injured while trying to stop the attack. She reportedly suffered minor injuries, but was taken to a local hospital to be checked out further.

"Upon further investigation, officers determined the woman injured is the owner of the dogs and the little boy killed is her friends grandson," the Portland Police Bureau said in a statement.

SEE MORE: Biden's dog bites another Secret Service employee at White House

Police described the dogs as Great Dane-mastiff mixes. A third dog was also in the home, police said. Authorities said they removed it, but it has not been euthanized. Police have not said whether charges will be filed in the case.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there's been an upward trend in fatal dog attacks. In 2021, the most recent year of reporting, the CDC says there were 81 fatal dog attacks in the U.S.
Republican former U.S. Representative Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of ex-President Donald Trump who co-chaired the congressional probe of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, said she is weighing a third-party bid for the White House in 2024.

In media interviews, Cheney said she was considering running for president next year as a third-party conservative candidate or on a bipartisan ticket that would include both a Republican and a Democrat. She cited Trump as a threat to democracy and the United States. "We face threats that could be existential to the United States, and we need a candidate who is going to be able to deal with and address and confront all of those challenges," Cheney told the Washington Post in remarks published on Tuesday.

She said she planned to decide on a run in coming months.

Cheney, 57, who lost her re-election bid in 2020 amid a tide of pro-Trump sentiment in her party, served as the top Republican on the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6 Capitol attack by Trump supporters who wanted to overturn his election loss to Democrat Joe Biden.

She has kept her focus on the former president, echoing Biden in saying that another Trump presidency would threaten American democratic institutions.

"I happen to think democracy is at risk at home, obviously, as a result of Donald Trumps continued grip on the Republican Party, and I think democracy is at risk internationally as well," she told the Post.

Cheney made similar remarks in interviews with USA Today and MSNBC coinciding with the launch Tuesday of her memoir, "Oath and Honor: a Memoir and a Warning." She could not immediately be reached for comment.

Despite Cheney's political setbacks, the daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney has deep roots in the Republican Party and has cultivated a national network of donors that has enabled her to stockpile millions of dollars.

Trump remains the frontrunner in the 2024 race for the Republican presidential nomination despite indictments in four state and federal criminal cases, including one in Washington over his role in efforts to overturn his 2020 loss.

Trump has denied any wrongdoing and has vowed to carry out reprisals against those he perceives to have wronged him if elected again. Representatives for his campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment. (Reuters)
Former President Donald Trump has overshadowed the Republican presidential race for 2024, but an analysis of Iowa Poll data for every Iowa Caucus since 1984 suggests it's not too late for another candidate to surge.

In an October Des Moines Register/NBC News/Mediacom Iowa Poll, 43% of likely Republican caucusgoers chose Trump as their first choice for president  putting him 27 percentage points ahead of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina governor and United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley.

Despite facing 91 criminal charges, Trump has only widened his lead in the race.

But Trump's rivals insist they can still win Iowa.

Gov. Kim Reynolds, who endorsed DeSantis, told reporters in November that "Iowa breaks late" and DeSantis has potential to win. And Haley has pushed her Iowa crowds to rally their friends and family to support her on caucus night, emphasizing that a strong caucus finish is essential for her to overtake Trump in the South Carolina primary.

Pollster J. Ann Selzer, president of Selzer & Co., which conducted the Iowa Poll, said she's learned to "never say never" about the caucuses.

"Weve seen unexpected changes in poll standings in the very last days of polling ahead of the caucuses," Selzer told the Register. "Donald Trumps lead looks insurmountable, but you wont hear this data geek say its a lock."

When do winners in the Iowa Caucuses typically surge in the polls?

First-place finishers for the past five Iowa Caucuses  with the exception of Hillary Clinton in 2016  all surged to the lead sometime in the final months before the caucus, from November through January.

In the crowded 2020 Democratic contest, South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg took the lead in a November 2019 Iowa Poll, with 25% of likely Democratic caucusgoers naming him as their first choice.

But with just weeks before Caucus Day, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders jumped ahead in the Iowa Poll, winning 20% support from likely caucusgoers. Buttigieg fell to third place in the poll, with 16%.

Ultimately, Buttigieg and Sanders were virtually tied after that hectic caucus night. Buttigieg won 26.2% of caucusgoers and Sanders won 26.1%.

On the other side of the aisle, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz leaped to the top of the race in the final two months before the competitive 2016 Republican caucuses.

Cruz was polling comfortably near the rest of the pack in the summer of 2015, though he lagged significantly behind early favorites Dr. Ben Carson, a neurosurgeon, and Trump. In the October 2015 Iowa Poll, 10% of likely Republican caucusgoers chose Cruz as their first choice, putting him in third place.

Cruzs support skyrocketed to 31% in the December 2015 Iowa Poll, overtaking both Trump and Carson. Although Cruz's support faltered somewhat in the final weeks before the caucus, he won the Republican 2016 Iowa Caucuses with 27.6% of the vote.

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However, a sudden jump in the Iowa Poll does not guarantee lasting momentum for a candidate.

In the 2012 race, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich shot to 25% and first place in a November Iowa Poll of likely Republican caucusgoers. His lead disappeared by the end of December, and Gingrich was a distant fourth on caucus night.

Each presidential cycle is different, but here's how past caucus victors have fared in Des Moines Register Iowa Polls:

Hillary Clinton stayed at the top of 2015 and 2016 Iowa Polls, as rival Bernie Sanders climbed steadily closer. Clinton eked out a narrow victory over Sanders on caucus night.

Rick Santorum was tied for sixth place in November 2011. He shot up in the December poll to 15%, though he still lagged behind leaders Ron Paul and Mitt Romney. His late momentum carried through caucus night, when he was virtually tied with Romney for first place  and later was declared the winner.

Mike Huckabee surged in the November 2007 Iowa Poll from third place with 12%, to first place, with 29%. The poll was published in early December, one month before Huckabee won the Iowa Caucuses with 34.4% of the vote.

Barack Obama led the Iowa Poll for the first time in November 2007, with 26% of likely caucusgoers marking him as their first choice. He widened his lead over opponents Hillary Clinton and John Edwards in the late December poll, ultimately winning the caucuses by a nearly 8 percentage-point margin.

John Kerry was in third place in November 2003, behind Democratic leaders Howard Dean and Dick Gephardt. He leaped to first in a January 2004 poll, from 15% to 26%, then won the caucus.

Donald Trump dominates race as a quasi-incumbent, but has his own expectations to meet

Former President Trump's candidacy has thrown the Iowa Caucuses playbook into question.

His rivals in the race need to not only introduce themselves to Iowans, but also make a case for why they would be a better choice than Trump, who continues to lead by double-digits in polling nationwide.

But the high expectations for Trump's campaign in the 2024 Iowa Caucuses may present their own challenges, according to longtime former Des Moines Register political reporter and columnist David Yepsen.

"If he's a weak winner, if most of the vote is going elsewhere to other candidates, that's going to be bad news for Trump," Yepsen said.

Yepsen compared the race to the Democratic primary in 1984, when former Vice President Walter Mondale dominated the field. Mondale led two Iowa Polls before the caucuses by more than 20 percentage points, then he won the Iowa Caucuses with 45% of the vote.

But it was U.S. Sen. Gary Hart, the second-place finisher on caucus night with 15% of the vote, who gained momentum out of Iowa. Just a week later, Hart won an upset victory in the New Hampshire primary.

"Hart came in second, got a ton of media attention and energy, and went on to New Hampshire," Yespen said. "Mondale, within a few weeks, was on the ropes."

Could a similar situation play out for Trump in 2024?

"Is Trump going to win? Will it be big enough to impress anybody, or will people shrug?" Yepsen said. "Trump needs the storyline to be about Trump, not about this energetic challenger."

The Trump campaign held an early December event urging supporters to caucus, playing instructional videos about how to register with the Republican Party, find their caucus location, and participate on Caucus Day on Jan. 15. Trump promised special white ballcaps to anyone who signed up as a precinct captain.

"Bring as many people as you can to vote, and do the caucus like nobodys ever done the caucus before," Trump told a tightly packed crowd. "And were going to win that.  The more we win, theyre going to see that signal for the November election.

Only time will tell if he's right.

Tim Webber 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: Do DeSantis, Haley have time to catch Trump? What past Iowa Polls show
A young boy died after he fell into a pool at an Arizona home Monday afternoon and drowned, police say.

The Gilbert Police Department said they responded to a child drowning call at a home around 2:30 p.m. on Dec. 4.

Police said the boy, who was 1 years old, exited the house into the backyard through a doggie door before falling into the unfenced pool.

"Life-saving measures were provided at the home before the child was transported to the hospital and pronounced deceased a short time later," police said in a news release.

Gilbert PD say the investigation in the case is ongoing.

Drowning in young children not uncommon

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more children ages 1-4 die from drowning than any other cause of death.

For children ages 5-14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional death after motor vehicle crashes.

The CDC said there are about 4,000 fatal unintentional drownings every year in the United States, which is an average of 11 per day. There are about 8,000 nonfatal drownings each year, which is about 22 per day.

More news from Arizona: 2-year-old Arizona boy dies from ingesting fentanyl; father charged in case

Drowning prevention tips

Gilbert Fire and Rescue encourages pool owners and parents to following the ABCD's of drowning prevention:

Adult supervision: At least one sober, undistracted adult should always be with children in and around the water. The adult should be fully focused on the child or children.

Barriers: Barriers should be in place to prevent a child from accessing the pool. Barriers can include a fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate, door locks that children are unable to reach and door alarms. Dog doors should not have direct access to the pool and should be closed to prevent children from reaching the pool.

Classes: Children should be enrolled in swimming lessons and taught how to get out of a pool. Adults should take CPR and lifesaving classes.

Devices: Coast Guard-approved devices such as life vests are encouraged for those who cannot swim.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Toddler crawls through doggie door before drowning in pool, police say
A Southern California poultry processor will pay $3.8 million in back wages and fines after the federal government uncovered numerous labor violations, including that the company illegally employed children as young as 14 to work with sharp knives.

Exclusive Poultry Inc., a major supplier to several large supermarket and food distributor chains, is among the companies owned by Tony E. Bran that were found to be engaging in several alleged illegal practices, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Among the revelations, the investigation found that Bran's businesses employed minors in dangerous jobs, retaliated against workers who cooperated with investigators and refused to pay overtime wages.

Child labor investigation: Leading candy manufacturer Mars Inc. accused of using child labor in CBS investigation

Child labor: Children used sharp knives, operated power equipment

The Department of Labor alleges that children as young as 14 were put to work at the plant, where they used sharp knives to debone poultry and operated power-driven lifts to move pallets. The investigation also found that the minors worked more hours than are permitted under child labor laws, according to the labor department.

Bran's companies are also accused of cutting the wages of workers who cooperated with investigators and failing to pay proper overtime wages  instead paying employees who worked 50 or 60 hours a week a fixed or hourly rate. Investigators also found that the company did not maintain required records when they "intentionally omitted workers from payroll records," the labor department said.

Exclusive Poultry and owner Tony Bran willfully withheld workers hard-earned wages, endangered young workers and retaliated against employees to conceal their wrongdoing, said Jessica Looman, administrator of the labor departments Wage and Hour Division, which investigated and litigated the complaint.

Poultry plants will pay $3.8 million in wages, fines

The Department of Labor's investigation included two poultry plants that Bran controlled in City of Industry and La Puente where he set up several "front companies" to employ workers, the agency said.

Those companies were Meza Poultry, Valtierra Poultry, Sullon Poultry Inc. and Nolluss Poultry.

Bran, the companies and the listed owners of the front companies are subject to a consent judgment entered Nov. 16 by the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. The judgment prevents them from shipping any poultry that was produced in violation of labor laws and requires that they be monitored for three years to ensure compliance.

As part of the judgment, workers who were fired after investigators inspected the plants are to get preferential hiring for any open positions, the labor department said.

Bran and The Exclusive Poultry also agreed to pay $3.8 million. That total includes $300,000 in punitive damages and $100,614 in back wages to workers, while another $201,104 is considered a penalty for the child labor violations, the department said.

Child labor violations on the rise

The investigation's conclusion comes at a time when child labor violations appear to be on the rise, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

The agency noted a 69% increase in children being employed illegally by companies, despite the federal law banning the practice since 1938. In fiscal year 2022, the department found 835 companies it investigated had employed more than 3,800 children in violation of labor laws.

In July, the labor department began investigating the death of a 16-year-old worker at a Mississippi poultry plant. The teen, who was killed when he became entangled in machinery that he was cleaning, was part of the sanitation crew at the factory in Hattiesburg, a city in the southern portion of the state near the coast.

The Wage and Hour Division will continue to work at every level of the industry to prevent employers or retailers from exploiting workers, including children, for profit," Looman said.

Any current or former employees at Exclusive Poultry who believe they may be owed back wages can call the Wage and Hours Divisions West Covina District Office at 626-966-0478

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at elagatta@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Child labor violations fined at poultry processor in California
Five people were rescued from dangerous flooding conditions by the U.S. Coast Guard in Rosburg, Washington on Tuesday. Rosburg is approximately 100 miles northwest of Portland.

Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Columbia River received a request from the Cathlamet Fire Department around 10:20 a.m. on Tuesday requesting helicopter support to rescue four individuals who were reported to be trapped in their home with four feet of water surrounding it, said the USCG in the news release.

Coast Guard performs dramatic rescue

An MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Astoria rescues five people who were trapped in flooding conditions in Rosburg, Washington.

An MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter was launched from Coast Guard Air Station Astoria in Warrenton, Oregon to help with the rescue.

Aircrew reached the scene about 40 minutes later, said the USCG, and were directed to retrieve an individual reported to be trapped in a truck in the flood waters. Video footage from the scene shows a dramatic rescue as an aircrew member lifts the trapped individual from the truck to the helicopter.

The aircrew then went to the flooded house from where they rescued four people and transported them to Coast Guard Air Station Astoria to awaiting emergency medical services.

All individuals are reported to be in stable condition, said the USCG.

The Coast Guard has advised the public to pay attention to weather alerts and check https://www.weather.gov/ for flood warnings.

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at sshafiq@gannett.com and follow her on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter @saman_shafiq7.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Coast Guard rescues 5 people from flooding in Washington: Watch
LONDON (Reuters) - The crew of the Galaxy Leader commercial ship seized by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis last month have been allowed "modest contact" with their families while various countries push for their release, the vessel's owner said this week.

The Bahamas flagged car carrier was taken to the port of Hodeidah in the Houthi controlled north of Yemen after being boarded at sea on Nov. 19 by commandos with the group.

The vessel's crew is made up of nationals from Bulgaria, Ukraine, the Philippines, Mexico and Romania, Galaxy Maritime said. The vessel is chartered by Japan's Nippon Yusen.

"The safety and welfare of the crew members remains the priority of both owners and managers and the modest contact that has been allowed with crew members and their families suggests that the seafarers are being treated as well as can be expected in the circumstances," Isle of Man registered owner Galaxy Maritime Ltd, said in a statement on Monday.

"The 25 crew members being held have no connection whatsoever with the current situation in the region," the owner said. "Nothing can be achieved by their further detention."

The United States has blamed the Houthis for a series of attacks in Middle Eastern waters since war broke out between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas on Oct. 7. Three vessels were attacked in the Red Sea area on Sunday.

At an assembly session on Monday of the UN shipping agency's highest governing body, the United States, the Bahamas and Japan called for the unconditional release of the Galaxy Leader and its crew.

Japan's delegation told the International Maritime Organization assembly that it "strongly condemns those acts which threaten the safety and freedom of navigation in that area".

The Bahamas said the various attacks including the Galaxy Leader were a "violation of all of the norms relating to innocent passage of ships".

"Here we have non-state actors so who do you hold responsible?" the Bahamas said, referring to the Houthis.

(Reporting by Jonathan Saul; editing by Grant McCool)
(Reuters) - Elon Musk said on Wednesday his artificial intelligence company xAI was not raising funds "right now", a day after the startup filed with the U.S. securities regulator to raise up to $1 billion in an equity offering.

The company has raised $134.7 million in equity financing from a total offering amount of $1 billion, the filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission showed on Tuesday.

Replying to a post on X by Deepwater Asset Management's Gene Munster regarding the financing, Musk said: "We are not raising money right now".

Munster's post had said the fundraising meant Musk wanted to compete with OpenAI and Anthropic.

Reuters could not independently verify if the startup is currently raising funds or not.

Investments into AI-linked startups have surged this year following chatbot ChatGPT's success and its parent OpenAI's $10 billion fundraise from Microsoft.

Musk launched xAI in July this year in response to Big Tech's AI efforts, which he has criticized for excessive censorship and a lack of adequate safety measures.

(Reporting by Chavi Mehta in Bengaluru; Editing by Devika Syamnath)
Courtesy of Lisa Barlow/Instagram

Lisa Barlow confirmed that her son Jack has arrived in Colombia for his mission trip after he was allegedly spotted in California instead.

Jack Barlow is in Colombia





, the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star, 48, tweeted on Tuesday, December 5. Her post included a selfie of Jack, 19, posing on a street in the South American country.

The Bravo star replied to several fans comments on the post, including one that pointed out Jack is no longer rocking frosted tips. Amen to that, Lisa quipped. She also confirmed that Jack is having a good time, writing, So happy loves Colombia, in response to a social media user who said they hope Jack is enjoying his trip.

In another tweet, Lisa clapped back at a commenter who seemed to question whether the photo of Jack was real. This need to prove hes there is a weird hill to die on but OK, the X (formerly Twitter) user wrote. In response, Lisa wrote, I have no idea what you mean.

Last month, Lisa shut down rumors that Jack had swapped his mission trip assignment from Colombia to California after a Reddit user claimed to have seen him at a TJ Maxx in Tustin wearing a name badge that identified him as a missionary. Some fans speculated that Lisa stepped in to have Jacks assignment changed, but she said the holdup was purely bureaucratic.

Courtesy of Lisa Barlow/Instagram

His VISA was delayed



, she tweeted in November.

As RHOSLC viewers saw this season, Jack shocked his mom by revealing his plans to postpone college so he can go on a mission with his church. Mormon missionaries spend up to two years in a location assigned by church officials, doing volunteer work and proselytizing. Lisa and her husband, John Barlow, are Mormon, but they were both surprised to learn that Jack had any interest in going on a mission. (The duo also share son Henry, 11.)

When he told us, I was crying because I havent been involved in the process, Lisa told her husband in a September episode of the Bravo series. I think Im still dealing with the emotion that I had no idea, and hes been prepping for a year, and then it makes me think that maybe he does need more time with me, or maybe he just wants less.

Stars Whose Kids Graduated in 2023 Promo

Cue the pomp and circumstance! Former President Barack Obama, Pierce Brosnan and more stars were proud parents at their kids 2023 graduation ceremonies. Obama, 61, attended his daughter Sashas graduation from the University of Southern California on May 12, alongside his wife, former First Lady Michelle Obama, and their eldest daughter, Malia, 24. The 21-year-old []

Lisa and her family learned that Jack would be going to Bogota during a mission reveal party that viewers saw in an October episode of RHOSLC. At the soiree, she told attendees that shed been expecting, like, Europe or something, or New York. During a confessional, Lisa admitted she was nervous about Jacks assignment.

I cannot believe hes going to Colombia, she said. Hell probably be held up at gunpoint at least once or twice on his mission. My friends son was just there. He was held up at gunpoint, like, weekly, so he carried, like, an extra few bucks in pocket and just, like, handed it over. Hes like, OK, I see the gun, heres the cash. But I mean, overall, its thrilling.

The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City airs on Bravo Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET.
(Corrects to delete repeated word "include" in second paragraph)

By Sarah Morland and Kylie Madry

(Reuters) -Joseph Vincent, a former informant for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), on Tuesday became the fourth person to plead guilty in a U.S. court for his role in the 2021 assassination of Haiti's president that left a destabilizing power vacuum.

A Haitian-American national, Vincent is among 11 defendants, including Colombian ex-soldiers and businessmen accused of helping supply funds and weapons and carrying out the nighttime attack at President Jovenel Moise's Port-au-Prince home.

Vincent was arrested days after the attack alongside another Haitian-American, James Solages. Both men initially said they were hired by the conspirators as interpreters.

At the time of the attack, the gunmen reportedly masqueraded as DEA agents, though the DEA later said neither Vincent nor Solages were acting on behalf of the agency.

A court filing, signed by Vincent, said he had provided material support and services to the plot, including advice about the political landscape and meetings with key community leaders.

At these meetings, the filing said, Vincent often wore a U.S. State Department pin leading people to believe he was employed by the U.S. government.

Vincent traveled to Haiti early in 2021 to back Florida-based pastor and co-defendant Christian Sanon's bid to replace Moise, according to the filing, and on the night of the attack was a passenger in a vehicle Solages drove to the president's home.

Vincent's guilty plea follows those by former Haitian Senator Joseph Joel John, retired Colombian army colonel German Rivera and Haitian-Chilean citizen Rodolphe Jaar, the latter accused of helping supply guns and vehicles for the attack.

Jaar and Rivera were both sentenced to life in prison, while John is expected to be sentenced on Dec. 19.

Vincent, who could also face life in prison, is set to be sentenced on Feb. 9.

Violent armed gangs have massively expanded their territory in Haiti since 2021, driving a humanitarian crisis that has displaced tens of thousands amid reports of serious abuses including torture, mass kidnappings and frequent use of gang rape.

(Reporting by Sarah Morland and Kylie Madry; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
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Israel said Tuesday that its troops had entered Gazas second-largest city as intensified bombardment sent streams of ambulances and cars racing to hospitals with wounded and dead Palestinians, including children, in a bloody new phase of the war.

The military said its forces were in the heart of Khan Younis, which has emerged as the first target in the expanded ground offensive into southern Gaza that Israel says aims to destroy Hamas. Military officials said they were engaged in the most intense day of battles since the ground offensive began more than five weeks ago, with heavy firefights also taking place in northern Gaza.

The assault into the south threatens to fuel a new wave of displaced Palestinians and a worsening of Gaza's humanitarian catastrophe. The U.N. said 1.87 million people  more than 80 percent of Gazas population  have been driven from their homes, and that fighting is now preventing distribution of food, water and medicine outside a tiny sliver of southern Gaza. New military evacuation orders are squeezing people into ever-smaller areas of the south.

Bombardment has grown fiercer across the territory, including areas where Palestinians are told to seek safety. In the central Gaza town of Deir al-Balah, just north of Khan Younis, a strike Tuesday destroyed a house where dozens of displaced people were sheltering. At least 34 people were killed, including at least six children, according to an Associated Press reporter at the hospital who counted the bodies.

Footage from the scene showed women screaming from an upper floor of a house shattered to a concrete shell. In the wreckage below, men pulled the limp body of a child from under a slab next to a burning car. At the nearby hospital, medics tried to resuscitate a young boy and girl, bloodied and unmoving on a stretcher.

Israel's assault in retaliation for Hamas's Oct. 7 attack has killed more than 16,200 people in Gaza  70 percent of them women and children  with more than 42,000 wounded, according to the Health Ministry in Gaza , which released new figures late Tuesday. The ministry does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths. It says hundreds have been killed or wounded since a weeklong cease-fire ended Friday, and many still are trapped under rubble.

Israel says it must remove Hamas from power to prevent a repeat of the attack that ignited the war, when Hamas and other militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took captive some 240 men, women and children .

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Tuesday the military would have to retain open-ended security control over the Gaza Strip long after the war ends. His comments suggested a renewed direct Israeli occupation of Gaza, something the United States says it opposes.

Netanyahu said only the Israeli military can ensure Gaza remains demilitarized. No international force can be responsible for this, he said at a news conference. Im not ready to close my eyes and accept any other arrangement.

Under U.S. pressure to prevent further mass casualties, Israel says it is being more precise as it widens its offensive and is taking extra steps to urge civilians to evacuate out of its path. Weeks of bombardment and a ground offensive obliterated much of northern Gaza.

The military accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields when the militants operate in dense residential areas. But Israel has not provided accounting for targeting in individual strikes, some of which have leveled entire city blocks and complexes of dozens of multi-story apartment towers.

Military Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi acknowledged that Israeli forces use heavy force against civilian structures, saying militants keep weapons in houses and buildings so fighters in civilian clothes can use them to fire on troops.

Striking them requires significant use of fire, both to target the enemy but also to, of course, protect our forces, he said. Therefore the forces operate powerfully.

Halevi said his forces had begun the third phase of the ground operations, moving against Hamas in the south after seizing much of the north. Israel has not given specific details on troop movements.

Residents said troops advanced to Bani Suheila, on Khan Younis' eastern edge. Israeli forces also appear to be moving to partially cut across the strip between Khan Younis and Deir al-Balah. Satellite photos from Sunday showed around 150 Israeli tanks, armored personnel carriers and other vehicles on the main road between the two cities.

The past days brought some of the heaviest bombardment of the entire war, the U.N.s humanitarian affairs office OCHA said.

Witnesses said a strike Tuesday hit a school in Khan Younis where hundreds of displaced people were sheltering. Casualties overwhelmed the nearby Nasser Hospital, where wounded men and children were lain on a bloody floor amid a tangle of IV tubes. In the morgue, a woman draped herself over the stretcher where her dead husband and child lay among at least nine bodies.

Whats happening here is unimaginable, said Hamza al-Bursh, who lives near the school. They strike indiscriminately.

In northern Gaza, the military said its troops were battling Hamas militants in the Jabaliya refugee camp and the district of Shujaiya, capturing Hamas positions and destroying rocket launchers and underground infrastructure.

The battles in the north signaled the tough resistance from Hamas since Israeli forces moved in on Oct. 27. The military says 86 of its soldiers have been killed in the Gaza offensive and that thousands of Hamas fighters have been killed, though it has not produced evidence.

Even after weeks of bombardment, Hamas top leader in Gaza, Yehya Sinwar  whose location is unknown  was able to conduct complex cease-fire negotiations and orchestrate the release of more than 100 Israeli and foreign hostages in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners last week. Palestinian militants have also kept up their rocket fire into Israel.

After the full-scale evacuation of northern Gaza ordered by Israel early in the war, most of Gazas population of 2.3 million is squeezed into the 90 square miles of central and southern Gaza.

Since moving into the south, the Israeli military has ordered people out of nearly two dozen neighborhoods in and around Khan Younis. That further reduced the area where civilians can seek refuge by more than a quarter. It was not clear how many people followed the evacuation call.

Nowhere is safe in Gaza, and there is nowhere left to go, Lynn Hastings, the U.N. humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories, said Monday. The conditions required to deliver aid to the people of Gaza do not exist. If possible, an even more hellish scenario is about to unfold.

For the past two days, aid distribution  mainly just supplies of flour and water  has been possible only in the city of Rafah, at the far south by the border, the U.N. said. Locations deeper inside Gaza, including Khan Younis, Deir al-Balah and northern Gaza, could not be reached because of fighting.

Dr. Nasser Bolbol, head of neonatal intensive care at the European Gaza Hospital in Khan Younis, said acute hunger was spreading, with some deaths of children from dehydration and undernourishment, after nearly two months with only limited aid entering the territory, under an Israeli seal.

Gaza is entirely covered in death and darkness, he said.

Family members of hostages still held in Gaza held tense talks with Netanyahu and the war cabinet Tuesday. Observers present said more than 100 people attended the nearly three-hour meeting. Some relatives shouted at cabinet members, perceiving they did not have any immediate plans to rescue some 138 hostages still captive. Nearly half the room left in disappointment before the meeting ended.

During the gathering, five hostages released during the truce shared harrowing details of their experience. One spoke of Hamas fighters touching female hostages, and another said militants shaved off a male hostages body hair to humiliate him, according to a group representing the hostages families. Others said they were deprived of water.

A doctor who treated some of the 110 released hostages told the AP separately that at least 10 women and men among those freed were sexually assaulted or abused, but did not provide further details. He spoke on condition of anonymity to protect the hostages identities.

Noam Peri, whose 80-year-old father is still being held captive, said the meeting with Netanyahu and the war cabinet was not a relaxed discussion.

After 60 days, people are tired and worried, Peri said. (AP)
My highlight of the night: Im sitting in my chair, and Jodie Foster comes up and says, Hi, Im Jodie Foster. And I said, Yeah, I know.



I want to thank my grandmother who gave me the name Fantasia that I hated when I was a kid because they never had the name at the gas stations. You know what Im talking about? We dont have...my momma said when I get grown, Im changing my name. But now I wanna thank her. Shes in heaven now. And I wanna thank her for my name. Its a great name.



I wanna thank Celie, a role that I read for and when they called me, I said I was not coming back to play. But it wasnt until our great director Blitz [Bazawule] called me and said, Im giving Celie an imagination. And I said, okay, I'm in, because I was a young lady that went through a lot of things and lost a lot. I lost everything twice.



I never thought I would be back here in front of you. And we all have imaginations when were down, and we see ourselves up. When we feel like we cant bounce back...J.Lo, good God Almighty! You look like a piece of art.



Im sorry. Because you see, Im standing here, and I want to speak to all of the Celies in the room tonight who didnt think they could make it out of certain situations. All of my Black women who felt like you were not pretty enough, you didnt have what it takes. I love you. Taraji, Im not gonna look at you because Im going to cry.



Oprah Winfrey, thank you. You saw something in me that I didnt see in myself a long time ago, and I know you were just waiting for me to get it right. You were just waiting for me to see it, and I see it now.



Im going to say, everything that I do, I want to honor my daughter. Zion, youre my baby. Stand strong for me.



Im not gonna get up here and talk your head off. Im just a little country girl from High Point, North Carolina. I cant believe Im in this room, but Im gonna end mine with this: [singing] To God, be the glory. To God, be the glory. To God, be the glory for the things that He has, for my ancestors, He has done.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Federal regulators are investigating ExxonMobil's $60 billion deal to acquire a Texas oil company in what would be one the largest mergers in the energy industry in two decades, according to securities filings.

The Federal Trade Commission, which enforces federal antitrust law, has asked for additional information from the companies about Exxons proposed acquisition of Pioneer Natural Resources. The request is a step the agency takes when reviewing whether a merger could be anticompetitive under U.S. law. Pioneer disclosed the request in a filing Tuesday.

The investigation comes after Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and 22 other Democratic senators urged the FTC to investigate the Exxon-Pioneer deal and a separate acquisition by oil giant Chevron, a proposed $53 billion purchase of Hess Corporation. Both deals are among the largest petroleum deals in U.S. history and could violate antitrust law, the Democrats said. Theres no public indication of a federal inquiry into the Chevron merger.

Schumer said Tuesday he asked the FTC to "take a hard look at Exxons blockbuster merger and block it if it would lead to higher prices, hurt competition or force families to pay more at the pump. Im glad the FTC is taking this step.''

The FTC, which shares antitrust authority with the Justice Department, can sue in court to block a merger or decline to take action, effectively clearing the deal. A spokesman for the commission declined to comment Tuesday.

Chevron, Exxon and other oil companies have announced huge profits from strong energy prices and demand since Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Exxon reported $9.1 billion in profits in the quarter that ended Sept. 30, while Chevron reported $6.5 billion in profits.

Exxon has said the proposed deal with Texas-based Pioneer Resources would enhance U.S. energy security and benefit the American economy and consumers.

Chevron said its proposed deal with New York-based Hess would strengthen long-term performance while delivering higher returns and lower carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to global warming.

Both deals must be approved by federal regulators.

Environmental groups have denounced what some called merger mania in the oil industry that threatens competition.

Exxon publicly promised to reduce emissions, yet subsequently spent $60 billion acquiring another fossil fuel company  doubling down on their commitment to oil and gas and putting profits over people,'' said Alex Witt of Climate Power, a left-leaning advocacy group founded by the Center for American Progress Action Fund, League of Conservation Voters and Sierra Club.

The FTC is right to investigate Exxons acquisition of Pioneer, which could raise prices at the pump and is aimed at keeping the U.S. reliant on fossil fuels,'' Witt said.
Tim and Meghan Christ are the parents of a 2-year-old daughter they adore, and they are doing all they can to make sure Tim gets the heart transplant that he needs to be in their lives.

Facing heart failure, Tim, a Fairhaven native, is at Tufts Medical Center in Boston for complications related to cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure while he waits for a new heart. He has been on the heart transplant list for 10 years, but in recent months, his health has declined.

Tim needs this transplant now more than ever, she said. He is reliant on IV medications and mechanical support to help his heart pump blood through his body. Without it he would end up in multi-organ failure.

For 10 years he was stable, requiring minimal medication adjustments and living a fairly normal quality of life. He worked full time, he and Meghan married, and they had their baby girl.

Fairhaven native Tim Christ and his daughter, Holly, have had two wonderful years together but he is in need of a heart transplant.

When his medications stopped working in recent days, he started to decline at his home in New Hampshire. Meghan, an ICU nurse at a small Vermont hospital, said they didnt know to what extent at that time.

Given the nature of this progressive disease, we figured some medication adjustment was in order and he would return to our home in New Hampshire soon, Meghan said.

But on Nov. 28. she found out that coming home was not an option and that he would need to be present in the hospital to receive a transplant.

Family support from near and far

Its all hands on deck in support of oldest brother Tim. Meghan, Holly, his parents Doug and Erica, who live in North Fairhaven with his brother Dan, and their siblings, Hanna in South Boston and Jon in New Jersey. Their family moved to the SouthCoast in 2004 and were quickly embraced by an incredible community.

The Christ siblings are all graduates of Fairhaven High School. Dan and Hanna graduated from Wood School. They were especially connected to the Fairhaven Public Schools music and drama programs, in which all four siblings participated through band, orchestra, choir and theater.

It's the Christ siblings Tim, Hanna, Dan and Jon in their youth during the holidays.

Their father, Doug, was an active member of FAME and chaperoned every band trip he could.

Doug said its the strength that Tim shows that gives him strength.

I focus on the joy Tim brings to anyone he meets, he said. He's a remarkable person, whose strength keeps everyone going.

He said its their hope that Tim will come out the other side of this to live a long and happy life with Meg and Holly.

Doug shares a message to everyone following along and supporting their family.

We all live in difficult times right now, but the outpouring of support from family, friends, and even total strangers has shown how truly good people can be, he said. We thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.

Doug said all the positive thoughts and prayers sent their way keep them going day after day and asks to keep them coming.

How to help the Christ family

He also asks people to consider donating to their GoFundMe page at gofund.me/c4d60590. He said they completely understand that a donation is not possible for everyone but asks that their page be shared to help get the word out.

Unfortunately, heart problems run on both sides of the family, with two family members having had heart transplants in the past as well as bypass surgeries and other heart-related ailments.

Doug himself deals with consistent irregular heart rhythms, which are controlled by an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). Tim has this device implanted as well.

Hanna agrees that Tims strength gives her strength and motivates her to help with the logistics and take care of whats going on outside the hospital walls while Meghan is staying with her in South Boston.

I feel most in control and at peace with the situation when I can be helping, she said. Its a scary situation. Its hard to not realize what happens at the end of this, that hes going to have major surgery and get a new heart. It keeps me going.

What is viral dilated cardiomyopathy

Tim was diagnosed with viral dilated cardiomyopathy in 2013, his senior year at Lyndon State College, now NVU, in Lyndonville, Vermont.

Meghan has known Tim right along since his diagnosis. In short, a virus Tim picked up damaged his heart, and now the chambers of his heart are too weak to pump blood effectively.

Hearing this news is hard in person but over FaceTime while your toddler is running around the house really steals the air from your lungs, she said. When you say marriage vows you promise forever, through thick and thin, sickness and in health. I just didnt think the sickness part would come so soon.

They chose to go public because Tim spent much of his young adult life part of the Fairhaven community, having graduated from Fairhaven in 2009.

It's Tim, Meghan and the Christ family celebrating Holly's baptism.

She is also trying to juggle being present for Tim in Boston while maintaining her full-time job and caring for their daughter at the same time.

I am stretched thin and to maintain health insurance I need to work, she said. Also, with travel to and from Boston, lodging and the rest of the household bills, things are tight. To even consider the cost of long-term hospitalization, surgical procedures and all the other pieces of Tims care literally makes me short of breath.

The Go Fund Me goal of $50,000 would cover lost wages at the minimum, not including his medical bills.

How does the heart transplant process work?

She said the transplant process is complicated. Every year there are required follow ups and assessments on heart function. For 10 years Tim was a status 6, medically managed, but now because Tim is in the hospital, he is a status 2. He would be a 1 when a donor match is made.

On Friday, Dec. 1, Tim was in surgery to get an Impella device placed, Basically, its a motorized pump that pumps the blood and allows the heart to rest. His heart still beats, but it offloads the work it is under and better perfuses his organs with blood and oxygen. He is stable but weak.

His body developed an infection without a known cause, and he is recovering from the pump placement. His cardiac output has improved, but she said the decline from before Thanksgiving to now has been rapid.

Hanna said its a matter of monitoring him daily and taking it day-by-bay and not thinking too far into the future or focusing on the worst case. She said he has a huge team of doctors helping him.

After the surgery Dec. 1, when he could sit up in a chair for the first time since he got to the hospital, Hanna said Tim told her he feels more like an active participant because he can sit up and walk around.

Hanna said he had 10 years to prepare for this and knew it was a possibility, but they didnt think it would happen so soon, so hes doing his very best to keep himself calm. She said its hard to see him like this, but they are sure that it will be OK once he gets his new heart.

Its a really overwhelming and anxiety-inducing situation and very scary, and I know hes just doing what he can to keep his heart rate down and take deep breaths, so I think hes coping as well as anybody could be in a situation like this, she said.

Hanna and Meghan spruced up his room with comfort items and things from home including pictures of Holly, and theres family around him every day. She said its a traumatic situation for Tim and the whole family, so they find ways to take care of themselves because theres is a small but mighty family.

She said they make sure Tim remembers that.

His 2-year-old motivation

Meghan said they involve 2-year-old Holly as much as possible. When she is home, they FaceTime with Tim often.

We remind her that Daddy is sick and at the hospital where the doctors and nurses are taking good care of him. We also remind her that he wont be home for a long time.

She said the hard part is that Holly cant see her daddy until well after the transplant given that he really cant get sick.

She misses him very much, and its hard to hold back the tears when she asks me where he is. These are things that you never think you will have to tell your child, let alone at the age of 2, she said. Our family and friends have stepped up without hesitation to watch her but its hard: hard for me and hard for Tim. He misses her so much.

Meghan said having a daughter is massive motivation. He wants to come home, and he wants to have an active role in her life.

Given my schedule at work, they have been very close in the two years Holly has been a part of our lives, she said.

They have received donations from all over the world thanks to friends and extended family and from many people from the SouthCoast who have reached out to check in.

Hanna said there are no words to say how grateful they are, and every time she gives him an update about how much money has been raised for his family and how many people are thinking about him, he gets so overwhelmed and grateful.

As of Monday afternoon, the Go Fund Me page had raised approximately $21,500 for Meghan, Tim and Holly.

Standard-Times staff writer Kathryn Gallerani can be reached at kgallerani@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter: @kgallreporter.

This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: South Coast rallies around Tim Christ in need of a heart transplant
Google (GOOG, GOOGL) on Wednesday debuted its new Gemini generative AI model. The platform serves as Googles answer to Microsoft-backed (MSFT) OpenAIs GPT-4, and according to DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis, it's the companys most capable and general model yet.

Gemini is what is referred to as a natively multimodal model, meaning it can analyze text, audio, video, images, and code. While other multimodal offerings exist, Google says Gemini stands apart because the model was designed to take all of those mediums into account from the beginning.

Other platforms, the company said, train separate models to tackle things like text, video, and photos and then string them together into a single model.

This difference, according to Hassabis, means that Gemini can better understand multimodal data and produce better results for everything from handwritten content to images and videos.

As part of the announcement, Google released a series of videos demonstrating Geminis capabilities. In one video, a presenter showed a program running Gemini with a drawing of a blue duck as well as a rubber blue duck, both of which the AI was able to identify.

Seeing some qs on what Gemini *is* (beyond the zodiac :). Best way to understand Geminis underlying amazing capabilities is to see them in action, take a look  pic.twitter.com/OiCZSsOnCc  Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) December 6, 2023

In another demonstration, the presenter showed the AI a hand-drawn picture of a roller coaster without a loop and another one with a loop. When the presenter asked which one is likely more fun, the AI said the one with the loop, which is the right answer unless you hate going around loops or on roller coasters in general.

Another example showed how parents can use Gemini to help their children with their homework. Not only is the AI able to read a students written answers to math questions, but it is also able to tell if they are correct or not and explain where the student went wrong and why.

On the coding front, Google said Gemini is one of the leading models for coding around, claiming that the AI can understand programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, and Go.

Google is rolling out three different versions of Gemini: Gemini Ultra, Gemini Pro, and Gemini Nano. Gemini Ultra is the top-of-the-line data center version of the AI model meant for what Google says are highly complex tasks. Gemini Pro is the mid-range version of the model, while Nano is the version designed to run on devices such as Googles Pixel 8 Pro.

A series of servers powering Google's Gemini AI platform. (Image: Google) (Google)

The company says the smartphone will use Gemini Nano to power Summarize in its Recorder app, which will allow it to understand content in a recording and provide a bulleted summary. The model will also power Smart Reply in Gboard starting with WhatsApp and eventually come to other apps later next year.

Gemini Pro, meanwhile, is available as part of the English language version of Googles Bard chatbot beginning today. The feature, Google says, will make Bard better at understanding, summarizing, reasoning, coding, and planning.

Next year, the company said it will roll out a version of Bard powered by Gemini Ultra called Bard Advanced.

Importantly, Google said its already experimenting with Gemini in Search via its Search Generative Experience, a version of Google Search that adds generative AI capabilities. According to the company, Gemini has reduced latency in the English language version of the app in the US by 40%.

Gemini will also be coming to Search, Chrome, Ads, and Duet AI in the months ahead.

Gemini is a massive undertaking for Google, serving as the companys biggest shot at both OpenAI and its backer Microsoft.

Sign up for the Yahoo Finance Tech newsletter. (Yahoo Finance)

Ever since OpenAI debuted ChatGPT in November 2022, Google has been playing catch-up to its rivals. Microsoft has already added its GPT-powered Copilots to a number of its services, giving it an early lead in the new AI wars. But with Gemini, Google could have what it takes to make and even exceed OpenAI and Microsoft.

But what truly matters is how well the AI model integrates into Googles products and whether that will help drive consumers to continue to take advantage of platforms like Google Search, Google Workspaces, YouTube, and other products.

And while you might not notice the changes at first, Gemini is meant as a means of securing Googles dominance into the future. And theres little chance OpenAI and Microsoft arent already preparing their own responses to Gemini.

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.

Click here for the latest technology news that will impact the stock market.

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A new joint bulletin from the Departments of Homeland Security and Justice to local, state and federal law enforcement warns that groups like al Qaeda and ISIS will likely use the Israel-Hamas war "to increase calls for violence in the U.S. during the holiday season compared to prior years." It says the most likely "primary targets" could include churches, synagogues and members of the Jewish community.

With the Israeli military bearing down on southern Gaza and Hanukkah only days away, the new intelligence report reviewed by CBS News warns of increased threats from foreign terrorist groups. It mirrors FBI Director Christopher Wray's testimony Tuesday on Capitol Hill, during which he told the Senate Judiciary Committee, "I see blinking lights everywhere I turn," in response to a question from Sen. Lindsey Graham about possible warning signs.

Wray said the number of threats is at a "whole other level" since Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on Israel, adding, "I've never seen a time where all the threats, or so many of the threats, are all elevated all at exactly the same time."

Wray warned terrorists may try to exploit the U.S. southern border, and said the FBI is working to "identify and disrupt potential attacks."



While the holiday season always sees heightened intelligence chatter, the report predicts an uptick this year because of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

In his prepared testimony to Congress, Wray said, "Our top concern stems from lone offenders inspired by  or reacting to  the ongoing Israel-HAMAS conflict, as they pose the most likely threat to Americans, especially Jewish, Muslim and Arab-American communities in the United States. We have seen an increase in reported threats to Jewish and Muslim people, institutions and houses of worship here in the United States and are moving quickly to mitigate them."

The internal government report comes as new details have emerged about an alleged plot to attack Las Vegas. Authorities arrested a 16-year-old suspect who allegedly wrote on social media about launching a lone wolf attack in support of ISIS. Investigators say they recovered a homemade ISIS flag and bomb parts, among other items, police said Tuesday.

With the spike in threats since the war began, the intelligence report warns civilian casualties in Gaza, "whether real, perceived or falsified," and the "increased presence of U.S. military forces in direct support of Israel" will likely be exploited by terrorist groups.

There is no specific or credible threat, and Wray testified there's nothing to indicate Hamas has the intent or capability to conduct operations inside the U.S., but Wray added the Bureau has not discounted the possibility.

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Israel's war with Hamas in the neighboring Gaza Strip is expected to continue at its current intensity for two more months, followed by what Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant called multiple months of "mop up" operations that would see the country's military "taking out pockets of terrorist resistance."

Gallant made the comments during a briefing with ABC News over the weekend, where, in light of multiple warnings by top U.S. officials about soaring civilian casualties in Gaza, he insisted: "Israel is not fighting the Palestinian people."

"We are fighting the Hamas terrorist organization," he added, echoing a message the Israel Defense Forces have delivered since the current conflict began with the Oct. 7 attack on Israel that left 1,200 dead, most of the civilians.

MORE: 4 people fatally stabbed, 2 officers injured in NYC knife attack: Police

According to Gaza's Hamas-run Ministry of Health, nearly 16,000 people have been killed there since the IDF launched a counteroffensive on the heels of the terrorist rampage, with the death toll rising daily. Gaza, a 140-square-mile territory, is home to some 2.3 million Palestinians who have lived under a blockade imposed by Israel and supported by Egypt since Hamas, a Palestinian militant group that the United States has designated a terrorist organization, came to power in 2007.

PHOTO: Palestinians injured in Israeli airstrikes arrive at Nasser Medical Hospital on Dec. 4, 2023, in Khan Yunis, Gaza. (Ahmad Hasaballah/Getty Images)

Last week, a seven-day truce between Israel and Hamas -- mediated by Egypt, Qatar and the U.S. -- ended with both sides accusing each other of violating the terms of the deal that had called for a temporary cease-fire.

Nevertheless, the truce saw the release of more than 100 Hamas-held hostages -- mostly women and children, and a handful of male foreign nationals -- in exchange for over 200 Palestinian prisoners and detainees who were being held in Israel, all women and teens: some of whom Israeli courts had convicted of violent crimes, and others who had been charged with more minor offenses, and some held without any charges.

During the briefing, Gallant said Israel will not return to negotiations unless Hamas fulfills the original terms of the agreement. That would mean the release of 15 more women and two children.

PHOTO: Released Israeli hostages, siblings Maya and Itay Regev, right, arrive to their family home in the city of Herzliya near Tel Aviv, on Dec. 4, 2023, after spending a few days in hospital following their release from captivity in the Gaza Strip. (Oren Ziv/AFP via Getty Images)

The hostages need to be released "with no preconditions and nothing in return," he told ABC News.

The two Israeli children are 11-month-old Kfir Bibas and his 4-year-old brother, Ariel Bibas, whose kidnap by gunmen was one of the first videos to go viral on Oct. 7. Just a few days into the hostage-release deal, and after renewed media focus on the Bibas family, in particular Kfir, Hamas said the boys and their mother, Shiri Bibas, were killed in an Israeli airstrike that also killed their captors. The Israel Defense Forces, however, said it continues to investigate the claim.

Gallant and other Israeli military and political leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, heralded last week's return of 110 hostages as a significant and surprising success during a press conference over the weekend.

Speaking to ABC News over the weekend from his office overlooking the Israeli military headquarters in Tel Aviv, Gallant said he is committed to bringing all the hostages home. But, he said, "the only way with Hamas is to use force," and then, "eventually, they will give you something."

PHOTO: An Israeli soldier fires a weapon from a window during operations in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, Dec. 4, 2023. (Israel Defense Forces via Reuters)

He also said Hamas, which Israel has vowed to eliminate, "has two options" in the war -- "to die in the tunnels or on the surface or surrender with no conditions."

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This stance means it's extremely unlikely talks will resume in the foreseeable future. Salah Al-Arouri, deputy head of Hamas' political bureau in Doha, recently told Al Jazeera that Hamas would not negotiate for the release of hostages until the end of the war.

Multiple Israeli security sources told ABC News they estimated Hamas' pre-Oct. 7 strength at 30,000 fighters. The sources said they believe that 6,000 of them have since been killed, including over 1,000 on Oct. 7.

Gallant claimed Israeli forces had killed roughly 40% of Hamas' brigade and battalion-level commanders in Gaza, captured hundreds of fighters and seized hundreds of terabytes of data from laptops. While he acknowledged that Israel cannot kill all Hamas fighters, he said his country's objective is to incapacitate the organization to the extent that it will "no longer function as a military organization that can launch organized attacks against Israel."

"We need to break the chain of command," Gallant told ABC News, adding that a goal of the Israeli military operation is to kill Hamas' Gaza leader, Yahya Sinwar, the former prisoner who Israel claims is the architect of the Oct. 7 attack.

PHOTO: An Israeli soldier stands next to a military vehicle and a convoy of tanks near Israel's border with Gaza, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Israel, Dec. 4, 2023. (Amir Cohen/Reuters)

Gallant said the only candidates that will not run Gaza in the future are Hamas and Israel. He and his government have insisted on severing all the infrastructural connections, including water and electricity, that until the Oct. 7 attacks, bound Israel with Gaza. This included allowing Palestinian workers into Israel. Israel had occupied the Gaza Strip from 1967 until August 2005, when it evacuated its settlements and military posts inside the strip.

While Israel's ground forces are heavily committed in Gaza, moving more operations into the southern part of the enclave in recent days, most of the country's air force is focused on the Hezbollah militant group in neighboring Lebanon, which has voiced support for Palestinians in besieged Gaza and has been clashing with Israeli troops along the Israel-Lebanon border in recent weeks.

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The majority of the Israeli Air Force, Gallant said, is on constant standby for a Hezbollah attack, with only a small portion focused on Gaza. Israel's military jets bomb unopposed over Gaza, but the Iran-armed Hezbollah in Lebanon is known to have sophisticated surface to air missiles that would pose a significant threat to Israel's air force, according to multiple Israeli security sources. The Israeli military has increasingly come to see the cataclysmic destruction in northern Gaza as a deterrent to the rest of the Arab world.

Gallant, who on Oct. 11, according to a report by Israeli newspaper Haaretz, called for Israel to launch a preemptive attack against Hezbollah, told ABC News over the weekend, "We do not want a war with Hezbollah," which is a far more formidable foe than Hamas.

Israeli defense minister predicts 2 more months of war, then 'mop up' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Jamie Foxx gave an update on his health after he suffered an undisclosed medical emergency earlier this year, revealing that he has a "new respect for life."

The Oscar winner, 55, opened up about the serious health ordeal he experienced in April as he accepted the Critics Choice Associations Vanguard Award in Los Angeles on Dec. 4. The event marked his first public appearance since his hospitalization.

I want to thank everybody. Ive been through something, Ive been through some things," Foxx said. Its crazy, I couldnt do that six months ago. I couldnt actually walk."

He paused then, appearing to tear up, and crowd encouraged him with cheers.

It feels good to be here, he continued. I cherish every single minute now. Its different, you know? Its different. Its beyond  I wouldnt wish what went through on my worst enemy because its tough when you almost  when its almost over, when you see the tunnel.

I saw the tunnel, I didnt see the light! he joked. It was hot in that tunnel! I didnt know what I was doing. S---, am I going to the right place? I see the devil going, Cmon.

How is Jamie Foxx doing?

Foxx appeared to be doing well when he made his first public appearance since being hospitalized in April 2023. He surprised the audience when she showed up at the Dec. 4, 2023 Critics Choice Association's Celebration of Cinema and Television: Honoring Black, Latino and AAPI Achievement.

I want to say thank you so much. I want to say, six months ago I couldnt fathom that this could happen or that I would be here, but as I walk up here to this microphone and get this Vanguard Award, all I can say is Lord, have mercy, Jesus, Foxx said.

Foxx thanked people who had supported him throughout his ordeal, and admitted he was trying not to make eye contact with people because Im just going to explode up here.

He also said that his health scare had given him a new outlook on life and his work.

I have a new respect for life, I have a new respect for my art, he said. I watched so many movies and listened to so many songs, trying to have the time go by. Dont give up on your art, man. Dont give up on your art.

Foxx is working on new projects since the medical complication he suffered. Shortly after he entered the hospital, it was announced that he would be co-hosting a new music game show called "We Are Family." In July, after he'd left the hospital, he shared on Instagram that "BIG things (were) coming soon."

What happened to Jamie Foxx?

In April, Foxx was hospitalized in Atlanta after experiencing a medical complication, his daughter, Corinne Foxx, shared in a statement at the time. He was then working on the film "Back in Action" alongside Glenn Close and Cameron Diaz.

The actors representative confirmed to NBC News via email at the time that Foxxs condition was serious enough that Jamies family, some of whom were not in town, came to the hospital.

Foxx has not disclosed the details of his illness.

In May, Corinne Foxx shared that her father had been out of the hospital "for weeks" and was at home recuperating. In fact, he was playing pickleball yesterday! Thanks for everyones prayers and support! she said at the time.

In July, Foxx updated his followers about his hospitalization in an emotional Instagram video.

I cannot even begin to tell you how far it took me and how it brought me back, he said. I went through something that I thought I would never ever go through. I know a lot of people were waiting or wanting to hear updates, but to be honest with you, I just didnt want you to see me like that.

I want you to see me laughing, having a good time, partying, cracking a joke, doing a movie (or) television show. I didnt want you to see me with tubes running out of me and trying to figure out if I was going to make it through, he continued.

He also opened up about feeling emotional following his health ordeal.

If you see me out from now on and every once in a while, I just burst into tears, its because its been tough, man, he said. Ive been sick, man. But now, Ive got my legs under me, so youre going to see me out.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  Outfielder Jason Heyward and the Los Angeles Dodgers finalized their $9 million, one-year contract on Wednesday.

The 34-year-old hit .269 with 15 homers and 40 RBIs with the Dodgers, who signed Heyward for the $720,000 minimum after the Chicago Cubs released Heyward from an $184 million, eight-year contract signed before the 2016 season. Chicago was responsible for the bulk of Heyward's $22 million salary.

A four-time Gold Glove winner, Heyward hit .245 with 62 homers in seven years with the Cubs.

He has a .258 average with 174 homers and 681 RBIs in 14 seasons that included time with Atlanta (2010-14) and St. Louis (2015).

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb
Jeremy Moeller



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Ask any fashion girl what major style city shes looking to for outfit inspiration these days, and you might be surprised to hear its no longer Paris or New York. Instead, its Copenhagen.

The Danish capital has not so quietly taken over the personal style conversation, with a fashion week that has even been deemed by plenty of editors and publications as the "fifth fashion week." The city's quintessentially quirky style doesn't take itself too seriously. To dress like a Scandi girl is to dress with a youthful sense of freedom and fun. And in large part that's because the Danish designers emerging from the city seem to have a keen understanding of how girls really, truly, want to dress.

Below, we asked all of the best emerging Danish designers how they would define their brands and why exactly Scandi fashion has won over the hearts of fashion girls everywhere.







Rotate, Jeanette Madsen and Thora Valdimarsdottir



Tine Bek



How would you describe your brand to someone who isnt familiar?



Jeanette Madsen: Rotate is our dream wardrobe come to life. Its all about bold, elevated, and empowering styles to make everyone feel the best version of themselves.

Thora Valdimarsdottir: Rotate is what we thought we were missing in the fashion scene, and now it has become a brand for those who are driven, daring, and glamorous in every way!

What pieces define Rotate?

J: What defines Rotate is the accentuation of the feminine form, that ultimate wow factor that you can find in our puffy sleeves, rushed details, mini and maxi lengths The bold silhouettes are part of our DNA.

T: I totally agree. What our most iconic designs like the Phoebe dress, the Kim dress, or the Noon dress have in common, is that they have an unmistakably Rotate shape.

Why do you think people are so drawn to Scandinavian design in recent years? What is a common misconception about it?

T: Scandinavian design in general (architecture, interior design, etc) is very functional. What makes the Scandinavian fashion scene different is how wearable everything is; its something we unconsciously tap into when were designing.

J: Scandinavian design is thought to be timeless, classic, simple, and minimalistic. However, its actually very diverse and everyone has a lot of takes on the concept. Scandinavian design can also be bold and Rotate is a clear example of it!

Noon Midi Dress

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Long-Sleeve Sequin Bodycon Mini Dress

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Open Back Chiffon Mini Dress

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Remain, Martin Asbjrn



Tine Bek

How would you describe Remain to someone who isnt familiar?

Remain is all about sophisticated and understated power dressing. It builds on craftmanship and tailoring for a modern woman who understands that confidence comes from her own sense of style.

What are some pieces that define your brand?

More than pieces, its the fabrics and tailoring that define our visionquality leather is at the core of Remain.

Why do you think people are so drawn to Scandinavian design in recent years? What is a common misconception about it?



Scandinavian design has always been known for its minimalistic approach and clean cuts. We have a tendency not to over-style things and thats something that makes Scandinavian design very relatable and desirable.

A common misconception about Scandinavian design in general is that its very minimalistic and clean. Fashion events like CPHFW, prove the Scandinavian scene is way more quirky, playful, cool, and less minimalistic.



Shearling Jacket

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Gimma Paneled Shearling Coat

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Usana Leather Blazer

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Operasport, Awa Malina Stelter and Stephanie Gundelach

Tine Bek





How would you describe your brand to someone who isnt familiar?



Bridging classic and contemporary styles with the sporty edge of Copenhagen, we try to ensure relevance and timelessness throughout. Elegant yet sporty, luxurious yet affordable, sustainable yet sexy. Strong women everywhere are our inspiration; we want our customers to feel sexy and confident.

A responsible mindset reflects the production to only cover recycled or organic fabrics and a production volume that continuously reflects the demand; To create and produce responsible and relevant clothing without compromising design and aesthetics.

What are some pieces that define your brand?



Our Seamless styles have been an integral part of our collection from the start. They embody our essence, showcasing a blend of the classic and sporty ingrained in our DNA. An example is our beloved Eve top, which has been with us since the beginning. Its a rib top made of 100% recycled seamless silk with an asymmetrical neckline. It looks beautiful on everyone! And of course our Shirley bag in 100% recycled silk. Its so elegant, yet practical as it has adjustable straps.

Why do you think people are so drawn to Scandinavian design in recent years? What is a common misconception about it?



Scandinavian design is timeless and elegant, but most of all casual and functional. We need layers to stay warm in the cold temperatures and we also need to dress practical and comfortable, so we can bike to work. The balance between classy and functional, makes it effortless.



Due to its simplicity and functionality and the timeless appeal that resonates with many people. But a common misconception is that Scandinavian design is just white and beigewith the occasional hint of grey. Scandinavians actually love colors and are not afraid to wear them. We often get inspired by nature and youll often find the colors of the forest, the sea and the earth reflected in Scandinavian design.







Gestuz, Sanne Sehested



Tine Bek

How would you describe your brand to someone who isnt familiar?



Gestuz is very much rooted in Scandinavian design with great quality, clean silhouettes, and strong suits, but I always draw in strong references from the vintage wardrobe. And that is part of what sets us apart as a brand. I especially dive into the old music scene and find a lot of my inspiration from the 70s and 80s, and the vintage pieces I have collected all over the world. Paris, New York, and LA are some of my go-to places for the best vintage inspiration.

What are some pieces that define your brand?



We work a lot with leather, and that has become an important part of the brand. I always want to create the best, affordable leather pieces  such as the perfect jacket  that you can wear for the next 10 years. Just like I have with pieces from my own wardrobe and with leather jackets from GESTUZ from 15 years ago. Suits have also become a focus point for us. Redesigning them each season and rethinking how a suit can be worn.



Why do you think people are so drawn to Scandinavian design in recent years? What is a common misconception about it?

Quality and easy to wear. Scandinavian fashion is all about being able to live in the pieces. Riding your bike, dropping of the kids, going to work, adding a heel, and going straight out to dinner. We also have a very high standard for quality  in fashion, but also in design generally. I think that is one of the reasons people are so drawn to it. There is also a sense of effortlessness. We maybe dont dress up as much as someone in Paris or New York, but we are always well dressed without trying too hard. A common misconception is that we only do minimalism and no color. That might have been what first drew the international press to Scandinavia, but Scandinavian simplicity can be done in so many ways, also using colors and layers.







Skall Studio, Julie and Marie Skall



Tine Bek





How would you describe your brand to someone who isnt familiar?



Skall Studio is a very personal and value-based brand, deeply rooted in our own values. From the very beginning we wanted to create a brand that could take fashion in a more conscious direction. To us it is crucial to use natural materials, mono fibers, and recycled materials and to have a close connection with our suppliers. Animal welfare is also crucial to us. We never use fur and leather in our collections, and we feel obliged to speak with the voice that animals do not have themselves. On top of that we always aim to design classic pieces that will stay in the wardrobe for many years to come, regardless of shifting trends. We combine sartorial styles with a feminine and relaxed style  and are often inspired by vintage.



What are some pieces that define your brand?



Our classic menswear inspired Edgar Shirt which is one of our bestselling styles. It is always part of our collections and is often updated in a new colour or print. We are also known for our classic outerwear. This season in terms of our new Gaby Coat and jacket that has already turned into an iconic Skall Piece, and our outerwear in 100 % recycled wool where the colours are obtained without additional dyes and chemicals thanks to the MWool technology by Italian Manteco. Also, our feminine blouses and dresses are part of the Skall Studio DNA along with our Danish knitwear made in Danish wool in one of the last remaining spinning mills and knitting factories in Denmark. To support local production and craftsmanship.



Why do you think people are so drawn to Scandinavian design in recent years? What is a common misconception about it?



We have a long history and tradition for creating simple and functional design in natural materials. Classic design is timeless, and we think we have a really strong sense of fashion in Copenhagen that makes the city very interesting. What makes it different is the simple shapes and the focus on the detailsthat less is more.



More and more people prefer to buy less and better  and in our opinion it is part of the Scandinavian design DNA. Also, we believe that the level of talent is very high, perhaps because of our history as a country with amazing designers and architects. When we create, we wish to make a difference, we wish to have an impact on peoples lives, its not just about the clothes, we also have a story to tell and that makes the difference we think.

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Bjurling, Hans - Getty Images



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Whether youre setting the table for two or having elaborate dinner parties throughout the holiday season, you can always count on silverware to add an elegant touch to your tablescape. However, while picking up some newer options from your local store is obviously an option, many designers opt for investing in vintage and antique silverware instead: Not only are these pieces often made with a higher percentage of silver than their contemporary counterparts, but their unique designs are difficult to find today. And after all, isnt it so special to hold onto an item that you know has a story behind it?



Silver is meant to be used, not stored away in a cabinet, says Todd Sell , vice president and a silver specialist at Doyle Auction House in New York City. I am a strong believer in utilizing silver every day, regardless of its age. Yet, Sell notes that identifying authentic works and determining their periods can be largely challengingespecially if you dont know what youre looking for.

Here, his guide to identifying antique silverware.

How to Identify Antique Silverware

We set a date of about 100 years old for the term antique, but for antique silver in particular, we might want to extend that back a little to say 1900, says Sell. Vintage silver is typically younger, 70 years or newer. With older silver, Im thinking particularly of pieces from the 18th and early 19th centuries, and you can often see the handwork of the silversmith in the fine surface hammering, as well as the incredible engraving on heraldic arms and monograms.

Sell notes that even though the 20th century saw an uptick in commercial silverware, you also see some great silversmiths like Georg Jensen in Denmark and Buccellati in Italy creating beautiful pieces that still use traditional silversmithing techniques. He adds, When were talking about vintage, or modern silver, we tend to think of great 1930s or 1950s cocktail shakers, cigarette cases, and other pieces from the 20th century.

Antique and vintage silverware can be a great addition to your collection, and mixing and matching styles can be a fun way to add visual interest your tablescape. However with so many options out there, there are several different methods of identifying vintage and antique silverware. Below are some common antique and vintage styles and patterns to be aware of, according to the experts, so you can start building your collection from the ground up.

Types of Antique and Vintage Silverware

Baroque (1600-1750)

Originating during the early 1600s in Rome, the Baroque period is considered to have been a reaction against its more rigid Renaissance predecessor, so Baroque silverware is characterized by relaxed, extravagant looks: flowing lines, floral motifs, and an obsession with symmetry. Weighty sterling silver pieces with hints of gold are the major hallmarks of this period, and theyre definitely more lavish pieces, says Doyle.

Common Baroque patterns include Puiforcat, which consists of flowing scroll motifs; Demitasse, which features crisp flower and leaf designs in perfect symmetry; and Royal Oak, which utilizes acorns and large oak leaves at the center of the design.

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Neoclassical (1760-1830)

Reminiscent of the antiquities in Greek and Roman cultures, Neoclassical styles use classical motifs that are more subdued in styleribbon-tied festoons, palm leaves and hanging garlands were all popular and used frequentlyduring this period.

Common patterns include the Adam style, characterized by Roman decorative motifs, swags, ribbons, and vase shapes; the Percier pattern, with leaf-edged borders and anthemions; and the Feather Edge, which features a multitude of feather patterns at the tip of the flatware.

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Victorian Floral (1837-1901)

According to Sothebys Senior Vice President and Head of Silver and Vertu Department, John Ward , this is the style that most people think of when they think of antique silverware: Grandma, very ornate and floral, and hard to clean! he says. But this isnt to say these pieces dont have merit. Since they werent as mass-produced as the silverware of later years, they have a more weighty feel about them, according to Ward, and they also come in a huge variety of hand-crafted styles.

Common patterns of this period include the Reed and Barton Majestic pattern, consisting of carved lines on the handles suggesting Greek columns and their adorning blooms; the Frank Whiting George III pattern that was a favorite of that time, consisting of decorative elements such as leaves, claws, and shells; and the most classic of them all, the Towle Georgian pattern, which boasts a floral, intricate rose design thats hard to find in pieces today.

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Colonial Revival (1880-1940)

Characterized by simple, clean design, Colonial Revival silverware was produced in America to keep up with demand. There was a lot of money in America in the 1920s, and a lot of silver made with clean lines, mainly Colonial Revival, which was created so that people could purchase weighty silverware that could be used daily; not just special occasions, says Ward. They were designed for everyday wear, and so they didnt have the grand designs of prior decades.

Some common Colonial Revival patterns are Oneida Colonial Boston, featuring a concave shank as its sole ornamentation; Grand Colonial by Wallace, consisting of a sculptured fiddle shape; and Castillian by Tiffany and Co., which has a heavy, curved edge with a geometric square pattern.

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Art Nouveau (1870-1900)

According to Doyle, the Art Nouveau style is all about unique, asymmetrical looks (think: curved stems, deep bowls, and motifs inspired by nature). If genuine, all these pieces are made with sterling silver, says Doyle, which means theyre weighter, more expensive and ultimately more valuable.

Some common examples of Art Nouveau styles include the Durgin New Art pattern, characterized by braided lily stems near the top that slowly move into narrower designs at the base; the Baker-Manchester Daffodil pattern, which uses flowing lines to create asymmetrical stems; and the Reed & Barton Francis, characterized by a thick, bumpy fruit and floral motif at the bottom of each piece of cutlery.

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Art Deco (1920-1930)

Soon after the Art Nouveau style came Art Deco, which goes a little more streamlined and symmetrical, with geometric and floral designs, as well as grooves. Most of the finishes are embossed or shiny, and many come with fun chrome and metal accents. While the previous Art Nouveau asymmetric lines exist, they simply are mirrored alongside one another or designed across the silverware to look more cohesive.

Famous Art Deco patterns to look out for include the Whiting Mandarin pattern, with curving lines in a more geometric arrangement; International Madrid Pattern, consisting of a raised silver thread with an etched edge; and the Coronation Hampton Court Pattern, which has symmetrical flower motifs with a horizontal base on each side.

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Mid-Century Modern (1940-1960)

With machine-cut silverware becoming the norm around the time of the second World War, Mid-Century Modern styles are characterized by geometric shapes (think: cut circles, squares, and hexagons on the handles). These machine-cut pieces look different from hand-cut silverware since they're more angular and uniform.

In terms of the shape of the silverware itself, you wont have the curved edges found in other designs: These are much sharper. Popular Mid-Century Modern patterns include Diadem/R&B, characterized by small circles arranged horizontally at the base; Cameo, with accent scroll designs, and Napa Valley, which includes symmetrical squares and teak accents.

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Modernist (1950-1970)

Modernist styles mostly consist of newer, more eclectic patterns, and they are lighter and more affordable than sterling silver pieces that have a greater, weightier composition of silver to them. This is mostly due to rising costs and poverty levels after the second World War, which in turn also affected the silverware styles consumers were favoring at the time. Gone were the traditional floral and geometric motifs; they were instead replaced by sleek shapes that could be mass-produced with ease.

Some common modernist patterns are Diamond, with sleek lines at the center of the cutlery forming a diamond shape; Signet, with a breathtakingly beautiful narrow base; and Raindrop, allowing for a simple, curved edge at the handle mimicking (you guessed it), a small drop of water.



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Russian President Vladimir Putin began a trip Wednesday to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, hoping to shore up support in the Mideast from two major oil producers allied to the U.S. as his war on Ukraine grinds on.

Putin landed in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the Emirates, a federation of seven sheikhdoms now hosting the United Nations' COP28 climate talks . It marked his first trip to the region since before the coronavirus pandemic and the war  and as he faces an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court over the war in Ukraine.

Neither Saudi Arabia nor the UAE has signed the ICC founding treaty, meaning they don't face any obligation to detain Putin over the warrant accusing him of being personally responsible for the abductions of children from Ukraine during his war on the country. Putin skipped a summit in South Africa over concerns he could be arrested on arrival there.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAEs foreign minister, met a smiling Putin after he bounded down the stairs of his presidential plane. As he arrived at Abu Dhabi's Qasr al-Watan palace to meet Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the country's ruler, the UAE's military acrobatics team flew in formation with red, white and blue smoke trailing them in the colors of the Russian flag.

I'm happy to meet you again, Sheikh Mohammed said as he sat with Putin in the palace.

Soldiers on horseback and with camels lined his arrival route, Russian and Emirati flags also hanging from lampposts.

Four Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets accompanied Putins plane on the flight to the Emirates, Russian state-run media reported.

The pageantry in the Emirates, which relies on the U.S. as its major security partner, highlights the UAE's expansive business ties to Russia that have exploded since grinding Western sanctions targeted Moscow.

Ukrainians on hand for the event expressed outrage over Putin being in the country at the same time they described him as committing environmental crimes in their country.

It is extremely upsetting to see how the world treats war criminals, because thats what he is, in my opinion, said Marharyta Bohdanova, a worker at the Ukrainian pavilion at the COP28 climate summit, wiping away tears. "Seeing how people let people like him in the big events, ... treating him like a dear guest, is just so hypocritical in my opinion.

Officials at Russia's pavilion at the talks declined to speak to The Associated Press. U.S. climate envoy John Kerry and U.S. Agency for International Development administrator Samantha Power made a point to tour Ukraine's pavilion at COP28 before being scheduled to address a news conference later Wednesday afternoon.

Putin last visited the UAE in 2019 , receiving a warm welcome from Sheikh Mohammed, then the crown prince of Abu Dhabi. In the time since, however, the world has greatly changed.

The Russian president isolated himself during the coronavirus pandemic. He launched an invasion targeting Ukraine in February 2022, a grinding war that continues today and has been a topic for Ukrainian diplomats at the COP28 talks .

Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war remains a major concern for the Mideast, particularly the UAE, which reached a diplomatic recognition with Israel in 2020. Recent attacks by Yemens Iranian-backed Houthi rebels also threatens commercial shipping in the Red Sea as Irans nuclear program continues its rapid advances since the collapse of the 2016 nuclear deal.

Putin is scheduled to meet with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Thursday for what Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov has described as a rather lengthy conversation. The two countries have been discussing ways to get around the Western sanctions targeting them.

Putin will travel to Saudi Arabia and meet with powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the one-day trip, Ushakov said. Those discussions likely will focus on Moscows other major concern in the Middle East  oil.

Russia is part of OPEC+, which is a group of cartel members and other nations that have managed production to try and boost crude oil prices. Last week, the group expanded some output cuts into next year and brought up-and-coming oil supplier Brazil into the fold. Benchmark Brent crude traded Wednesday around $77 a barrel, down from nearly $100 in September, over concerns about a weakening economy worldwide .

The visit comes after a parade of Western leaders including U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and others backing Ukraine spoke at COP28. So did Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, long a Putin ally.

A readout on Putin's trip from the state-run Tass news agency published early Wednesday offered no suggestion he might come to the COP28 site, instead quoting Ushakov saying he'd land and have a meeting at the palace and one-on-one talks with Sheikh Mohammed. Still, some reports suggest Putin could make an appearance at the climate talks.

The U.N.'s Framework Convention on Climate Change's spokesperson Alexander Saier told a news conference Monday morning that he was not aware that Mr. Putin will come to the conference, but I would also need to check the host country with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He declined to answer whether U.N. police would be obligated to make an arrest.

The Emirati organization committee for COP28 referred questions to the UAE's Foreign Ministry, which did not respond. The UAE repeatedly feted the now-deposed Sudanese leader Omar al-Bashir in the past despite an ICC warrant seeking his arrest on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity in Darfur.

Im talking about his crimes and this person is literally right now here, somewhere near me," said Alina Abramenko, another worker at the Ukrainian pavilion that highlights the environmental damage wrought by the war. "You know, its really strange. (AP)
Stephane Cardinale - Corbis - Getty Images

Director Sofia Coppola has helmed a lot of films about young women finding their way in life, and it seems like she speaks from experience. After a marriage to fellow director Spike Jonze in her twenties, she connected with a musician named Thomas Mars whom she first met while working on one of her most iconic films, The Virgin Suicides.

Theyve now been together for 12 years and share two children. Theyre not shy when it comes to discussing their relationship, but they rarely make a big splash on the red carpet, so some fans might not be as familiar with the musician. Heres everything to know about Sofia Coppolas husband Thomas Mars.

Who is Thomas Mars?

Mars is originally from France, growing up close to the Palace of Versailles, which is just a short train ride from Paris. The Palace is a well-known tourist destination, filled with history and art connected to French royalty (including one of Coppolas muses, Marie Antoinette). But Mars wasnt exactly thrilled about his neighborhood growing up. He told Vulture in 2020, I lived in a museum. The frustration we had was that everything great happened in the past, and they wouldnt give the chance for anything new to happen.

He also told NPR that he refused to go inside the landmark while growing up, but would sneak into the grounds at night as a teen. Being so close to art history did seem to rub off on him in some waysMars is a very successful musical artist as the frontman for the band Phoenix, which also includes Christian Mazzalai, Laurent Brancowitz, and Deck DArcy. Theyve released seven studio albums and their fourth record, Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix, won a Grammy for Best Alternative Music Album in 2010.

Mars did get into college, but dropped out after four days and got right back to music making. He and the group have been together since 1996, but they apparently have been working together way longer. He told The Creative Independent in 2017, We were really about 10 years old when we started doing things. Apart from bartending, music is the only thing I know how to do.

Theres something else that Coppola and Mars have in common: Hes also related to a famous person in media, as the nephew of famed German writer Hellmuth Karasek. Mars says that Karasek supported Phoenix before his passing in 2015.

One of the first shows that we played in Versailles a lot of people didnt really care for the band, Mars said And I remember at the end of that show he was the first one who started clapping. He knew the potential.



How did Coppola and Mars meet?

Mars played drums and sang on the track Playground Love for Coppola's 1999 movie The Virgin Suicides, and they met on set. She was married to director Spike Jonze at the time, but they eventually divorced in 2003. That was the same year Coppolas film Lost in Translation was released, and Mars band contributed a song to it as well as music for Somewhere, The Bling Ring, and The Beguiled. The entire band even makes a brief appearance in the film Marie Antoinette, playing lutes.

For her 2023 movie Priscilla, Coppola was not granted the rights to Elvis Presleys music for the soundtrack, so Phoenix wrote the score and added a cover of Frankie Avalons Venus.

Its hard to differentiate the work from the private life, but Ive always felt a really strong connection watching her movies, Mars told Dazed in 2017. There are things in her movies that only make sense once you see them.

How long have they been married?

The couple announced their engagement in May 2011 and were married on Aug. 27, 2011. The wedding was held at a villa in Southern Italy that Coppolas grandparents were raised in. It was a civil ceremony officiated by the towns mayor, and her father Francis Ford Coppola walked her down the aisle.

Do Sofia Coppola and Thomas Mars have children?

Their first daughter, Romy Mars, was born in 2006, and they welcomed their second daughter, Cosima Mars, in 2010. Apparently, one of the couples hard rules is no public social media, but Romy went viral after breaking the rule on TikTok in March 2023. She told a story in a now deleted clip about trying to charter a helicopter to have dinner with a friend in Maryland and using her dads credit card.

Of the incident, Coppola told THR, Shes funny. But people discussing my parenting publicly is not what I wouldve hoped for.

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A stage of four candidates  the thinning ranks of former President Donald Trumps top rivals  will take the presidential primary fight to one another Wednesday evening in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, for the fourth Republican debate.

The latest bout is set to feature Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. Gone from the previous stage is Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, who suspended his presidential campaign shortly after last months primary debate. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, who didnt qualify for the last two debates, dropped out of the race this week, as well.

Trump, far and away the leader in presidential primary polling, is skipping this debate, too. With leads in excess of 20 points across the early states and nationally  leads that have either grown or remained consistent  he apparently sees no reason to take on his challengers onstage. Instead, he appeared at a Fox News town hall Tuesday and is holding a private fundraiser Wednesday.

Without Trump, the ongoing battle for second place is sure to get even hotter, with Haley and DeSantis, the two top-polling candidates onstage, certain to take aim at each other as they look to separate themselves and roll into Iowa as the clear alternative to Trump.

With only four candidates onstage for the debate, which takes place at 8 p.m. ET, look for both to earn more speaking time than they have previously  particularly with Scott, who had the most time during the third debate  no longer there.

Raising the stakes is the fact that this debate may be the final one before the Iowa caucuses. As of now, no other debate has been scheduled.

All eyes on Haley vs. DeSantis

The two leading Trump alternatives have spent the better part of two months whacking each other with an onslaught of attacks as they look to cement their status as the clear No. 2, ready to take on Trump.

That means much of their attention Wednesday wont be on the man they seek to catch but on the candidate they want to leave in the dust behind them.

Polling has DeSantis, long the far-and-away top choice behind Trump, neck and neck in Iowa with Haley, the former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, while she leads DeSantis in both New Hampshire and her home state, South Carolina.

The third primary debate featured far less skirmishing between the two than observers of the race would have predicted entering it  particularly as Ramaswamy came out swinging at both and drew some of Haleys most pointed attacks. But perhaps with DeSantis having sharpened his debating skills during a recent showdown with California Gov. Gavin Newsom, he may be more ready to throw some elbows Wednesday.

Ramaswamy plans to be 'brutally frank'

Ramaswamys pugnacious strategy during the third debate didn't appear to pay off in the polls afterward.

In any case, he has set the stage for a similar performance Wednesday, telling reporters in Iowa on Saturday that he plans to bring the same candor to the stage in Tuscaloosa.

I was brutally frank in the last debate, he said. I think that this country needs more of that, not less.

Ramaswamy, who has closely aligned with Trump throughout the primary campaign, has also served as a sort of stand-in for him onstage in the early debates, with other candidates taking memorable shots at him as he tries to claim the outsider mantle  particularly on foreign policy.

Last month, he referred to both Haley and DeSantis as Dick Cheney in 3-inch heels, suggesting their foreign policies were too bloodthirsty. After he later referred to Haleys daughters use of the social media app TikTok, Haley, who has brawled with Ramaswamy in multiple primary debates, called him scum.

Yet every minute spent engaging with Ramaswamy is one fewer minute Haley or DeSantis have to separate from each other  or take on Trump head-on. While Ramaswamy plans to be antagonistic onstage again, its an open question whether his rivals will take the bait or choose to ignore it.

Moderators present a wild card

Wednesday's debate will be co-hosted by NewsNation, The Megyn Kelly Show on SiriusXM and The Washington Free Beacon, with Elizabeth Vargas, Megyn Kelly and Eliana Johnson as moderators.

Viewers may recall Kellys questioning of Trump at a Fox News debate at the onset of the 2016 GOP primaries, after which he said she had blood coming out of her whatever.

Trump won't be on the stage Wednesday night, so there won't be any sort of rematch. Each of the moderators comes from a different outlet, which is unusual  typically the moderators are uniformly from the same broadcaster or the split is 2-to-1  so it will be worth watching how their group dynamic plays out.
By Nandita Bose and Trevor Hunnicutt

WESTON, Massachusetts/WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Joe Biden said on Tuesday he may have skipped mounting a 2024 re-election bid if he were not facing Donald Trump because the Republican poses a unique threat to the United States.

"If Trump wasn't running, I'm not sure I'd be running," Biden said at a fundraising event for his 2024 campaign outside of Boston. "We cannot let him win."

Biden's striking self-assessment comes as even staunch Democratic voters express concerns about the president's age. The Democrat turned 81 years old last month and is already the eldest Oval Office occupant in history.

"Somebody gave him a talking point they thought would sound good," Trump, who was president from 2017 to 2021, said at a Fox News town hall on Tuesday.

Biden, seeking a second four-year term in next year's election, later told reporters at the White House that he would not drop out of the race.

"No, not now," Biden said when asked if he would consider stepping aside if Trump, 77, stopped seeking his own second term. "Look, he is running, and I have to run."

Asked if he would have run were Trump not in the race, Biden said, "I expect so."

During his 2020 presidential campaign, Biden often mentioned that his decision to run was due in part to then-President Trump's handling of issues, including a 2017 white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Now, Biden faces limited competition for his party's nomination and is again positioning Trump as a danger to democracy itself.

Trump, who faces criminal charges over his efforts to reverse his 2020 election loss, has painted Biden as a dangerous autocrat.

After considering the decision for weeks with family and close confidants, Biden announced his re-election bid in April, coming to the private belief that neither Vice President Kamala Harris nor any other Democratic hopeful could beat Trump in next year's general election, according to a former White House official who requested anonymity to discuss the president's thinking.

The president's aides increasingly regard Trump's frontrunner status for the Republican presidential nomination as insurmountable, according to two of those Democrats who also declined to be named.

Biden has repeatedly made comments about Trump during a fundraising blitz that started on Tuesday in Boston and is set to include at least nine events before the end of the month.

"I dont think anyone doubts our democracy is at risk again," Biden said earlier on Tuesday.

Recent polling has shown the Republican frontrunner leading Biden in hypothetical matchups in key swing states and on the national level.

(Reporting by Nandita Bose in Weston, Massachusetts, and Trevor Hunnicutt in Washington; Additional reporting by Eric Beech; Editing by Chris Reese, Matthew Lewis and Kim Coghill)
A 29-year-old Washington man was supposed to be admitted to a hospital for psychiatric help. He never made it to the hospital, court records showed.

Months later, he killed an Idaho couple north of McCall. Now, he could spend the rest of his life in prison.

Third District Judge Matthew Roker sentenced John Cody Hart to 30 years in prison with an indeterminate life sentence  meaning Hart could eventually be released on parole, Adams County Prosecutor Christopher Boyd told the Idaho Statesman by email. Hart fatally shot two owners of a New Meadows hotel, where he was staying, in October 2022. The prosecution asked for life without the possibility of parole, Boyd added.

In July, Hart agreed to plead guilty to two counts of first-degree murder as part of a plea deal, and in exchange, the prosecution took the death penalty off the table, the Adams County Sheriffs Office said in a previous news release. Hart was a guest at the Hartland Inn in October 2022 when he shot and killed 47-year-old Rory Mehen and 45-year-old Sara Mehen.

The families of the two beautiful people Hart senselessly murdered are heartbroken, as is the community of New Meadows, Boyd said.

Records previously obtained by the Statesman showed Hart, who lived in Southwest Washington, was expected to be admitted to a mental health hospital near Tacoma, Washington, and that he was forbidden to possess firearms. Records showed that Hart began experiencing auditory hallucinations in 2015 after his wife died in a car crash and was eventually diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Hart was never transferred to the hospital because of a backlog in mental health cases, according to court records. He was expected to be hospitalized starting in August 2022 for 90 days.

Shortly after 12:30 p.m. Oct. 1, 2022, Hart shot the couple at the Hartland Inn. Hart told police he shot the Mehens after he was caught looking in some of the motels drawers for socks that he believed belonged to his children, according to an affidavit for an arrest warrant previously obtained by the Statesman.

Hart told detectives the Mehens snatched everything from his hands and made him feel like a thief, the affidavit said. He added the Mehens reminded him of Bonny and Clyde. According to the affidavit, Hart said following the sock incident, he went back to his room and prepared for the worst.
Interrail journeys let you take in some of Europes most beautiful scenery as you travel between cities (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Since its inception in 1972, Interrailing has been a popular concept with travellers looking to see Europe on a budget.

Though originally for students, it now offers people of all ages the freedom to explore countries at their leisure while saving money on flights and avoiding having to book dozens of separate trains.

Whether you want to spend a few days travelling across France or two months traversing the length of the continent, Interrailing is an accessible option that leaves you in control.

Travel whenever you want and to wherever you want across 33 different countries, from the UK to Greece and Turkey.

With a little bit of research  from route maps to pricing options  you can easily book the European rail trip of a lifetime. Weve collated all the information you need to get planning.

What is an Interrail pass, and how do they work?

See the wonders of the continent at your leisure (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

An Interrail pass is an all-in-one ticket that allows you to travel on trains within 33 countries in Europe without having to buy separate tickets.

Global Passes offer access to several countries, with no need for specific itineraries, from 194 (168). One Country Passes give you the opportunity to explore a single country in depth, with prices starting at 51 (44).

Read more on travel inspiration:

Passes allow travel either continuously  in other words, on every day within a given timeframe  or on a flexible basis, for example on any 10 days within a given two-month period. One Country Passes start at offering three days travel within a given month, extending up to eight days, while Global Passes offer anything from four days within one month up to continuous travel over three months, the latter giving you the ultimate freedom to travel on any day you like for around 711 (618).

Passes can be used by anyone who lives in Europe  and the UK is included  with discounts for certain age groups, including over-60s and those under 27 years old (children aged between four and 11 travel for free).

How much is an Interrail pass?

A One Country Pass through the Czech Republic starts at just 73 (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

One Country Passes vary in price according to the country, with prices in Italy starting at 133 (115) and Germany available from 153 (133).

For reference, an eight-day pass in Italy would cost 235 (204). The cheapest One Country passes are as little as 47 for countries including Poland, Bulgaria and Latvia.

Global Passes start at 194 (168) for a four-day Flexi Pass, which allows travel on as many trains as you like on each of your four travel days. The most expensive Flexi Pass is 389 (338), and it allows travel on 15 different days within two months.

The second category of Global Passes, called Continuous Passes, start at 349 (303). These allow you to take as many trains as you like for 15 days straight. Such passes are also available for 22 days (408/354), one month (528/459), two months (575/500) and three months (711/609).

Included in the price is one outbound and one inbound journey into your resident country.

Which countries are included in the passes?

Interrail passes are valid in 33 different European countries (Getty Images)

According to the interrail website, passes are valid in the following countries:

Austria, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey.

What counts as a travel day?

The Interrail website states that a travel day is a 24-hour period in which you can travel on trains with your Interrail Pass. It lasts from 00.00 (midnight) to 23.59 on the same calendar day. Night trains can help you save a travel day, as you only have to use one travel day (the day of departure if the train departs before 23:59).

Helpful additional information

Passes do not cover travel on local rail services such as the metro (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Many trains can be boarded by simply showing your ticket to staff, though seat reservations need to be booked separately. Passes can be provided in paper format or delivered straight to your phone via the Interrail app.

Passes are valid on all national railways, and some private railways, in participating countries. They are not valid on local services, such as the metro, but do give discounts on some networks, including a variety of ferry networks around Finland, Estonia, Greece and Turkey.

The Interrail website is somewhat unclear in its assertion regarding some trains being included. Seat reservations are an important aspect of the pass, as your pass alone is not valid for travel on some trains  you must also have a seat reservation.

Reservations are often required in France, Spain and Germany, and are necessary on all night trains and most high-speed trains. Prices range 2 (1.74) to 20 (17.40), and must be paid for in addition to the cost of your pass.

If travelling from the UK, though you can board Eurostar trains to Paris, Amsterdam and Lille, each journey carries an additional reservation fee of 30 (26).

Loose route ideas, a railway map of Europe, FAQs and a train timetable can be found on the Interrail website.

You have up to 11 months from the date of purchase to activate your mobile pass. Do this by selecting your first travel day (the start date) and entering your passport or ID number.

The Interrail site states: Your first travel day is the start date of your Pass  you have the option to select the start date in advance or when youre ready to activate the Pass.
By Aziz El Yaakoubi and Vladimir Soldatkin

RIYADH (Reuters) -Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday and immediately began hastily arranged talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on oil, Gaza and Ukraine.

It was not immediately clear what Putin, who has rarely left Russia since the start of the Ukraine war, intended to raise specifically about oil or geopolitics in a meeting with the crown prince of the world's largest crude exporter.

The meeting with MbS, as the prince is widely known, comes after a fall in oil prices despite a pledge by OPEC+, which groups the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies led by Russia, to further cut output.

In introductory remarks shown on Russian television, Putin thanked the crown prince for his invitation, saying he had originally expected MbS to visit Moscow, "but there were changes to plans".

Their next meeting should take place in Moscow, he said, adding: "Nothing can prevent the development of our friendly relations."

Russia's defence ministry had earlier shown the Kremlin chief's Ilyushin-96 aircraft flanked by Sukhoi-35S fighter jets on its flight from Russia to the United Arab Emirates.

Putin's delegation included top oil, economy, foreign affairs, space and nuclear energy officials.

During Putin's first stop in Abu Dhabi, President Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed his "dear friend", while a fly-past of UAE jets trailed the colours the Russian flag.

"Our relations, largely due to your position, have reached an unprecedentedly high level," Putin told him. "The UAE is Russia's main trading partner in the Arab world."

Putin said Russia and the UAE cooperated as part of OPEC+, whose members pump more than 40% of the world's oil, adding that they would discuss the Israeli-Hamas conflict and Ukraine.

He then headed to Riyadh for his first face-to-face talks with MbS since October 2019. The trip, only days after a key OPEC+ meeting was delayed, appeared hastily arranged. One source had told Reuters beforehand that MbS had plans to visit Moscow.

Putin's last visit to the region was in July 2022, when he met Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Iran. The Russian President is due to host his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi in Moscow on Thursday.

PUTIN AND MBS

The Kremlin said that, as well as oil, Putin and MbS would discuss the war between Israel and Hamas, the situation in Syria and Yemen, and issues such as ensuring stability in the Gulf, while an aide said Ukraine would also be discussed.

Putin and MbS, who together control one-fifth of the oil pumped each day, have long enjoyed close relations, though both have at times been ostracised by the West.

At a G20 summit in 2018, just two months after the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in a Saudi consulate, Putin and MbS high-fived and shook hands with smiles.

MbS, 38, has sought to reassert Saudi Arabia as a regional power with less deference to the United States, which supplies Riyadh with most of its weapons.

Putin, who sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022, says Russia is engaged in an existential battle with the West - and has courted allies across the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia amid Western attempts to isolate Moscow.

Both MbS and Putin, 71, want - and need - high prices for oil - the lifeblood of their economies. The question for both is how much of the burden each should take on to keep prices aloft - and how to verify the burden.

OPEC+

Last month, OPEC+ delayed a meeting by several days due to disagreements over production levels. The Saudi energy minister said OPEC+ also wanted more assurances from Moscow that it would make good on its pledge to reduce fuel exports.

Relations between Saudi Arabia and Russia in OPEC+ have been uneasy at times. A deal on cutting exports almost broke down in March 2020, but they managed to make up within weeks and OPEC+ agreed to record cuts of almost 10% of global demand.

Since war broke out between Israel and Hamas in October, Putin has cast the conflict as a failure of U.S. policy in the Middle East and has sought to further develop ties with Arab allies and Iran, as well as with the Palestinian militant group.

(Editing by Guy Faulconbridge, Andrew Osborn, Bernadette Baum and Alexander Smith)
UN climate chief Simon Stiell on Wednesday accused nations of "posturing" at the COP28 talks in Dubai, raising the temperature on negotiators sparring over the thorny issue of fossil fuels.

Pressure is mounting near the end of the first week of the UN negotiations hosted by the oil-rich UAE, with Europe's climate monitor confirming that 2023 will be the hottest year in recorded history.

The European Union called for COP28 to "mark the beginning of the end" of planet-warming fossil fuels.

The latest draft of a global climate agreement is "probably" expected on Wednesday before it is finalised -- in theory -- on December 12, according to two people familiar with the negotiations, but a definitive timeline remains unclear.

The fate of oil, gas and coal -- the main drivers of human-caused planet heating -- has been the biggest sticking point on the agenda, and divisions around their future have dominated the conference.

"We have a starting text on the table, but it's a grab bag of ... wish lists and heavy on posturing," Stiell said.

"At the end of next week, we need COP to deliver a bullet train to speed up climate action. We currently have an old caboose chugging over rickety tracks," he told reporters.

'Orderly and just'

Battle lines have previously been drawn on whether to agree to "phase out" or "phase down" fossil fuels.

However the latest text includes a new phrase calling for an "orderly and just" phase-out.

The language could signal a consensus candidate as it would give countries different timelines to cut emissions depending on their level of development and reliance on fossil fuels.

But there is another option: no mention at all of fossil fuels, which reflects opposition from nations including Saudi Arabia, Russia and China, according to several observers who attended the closed meetings.

India on Tuesday evening opposed naming specific sectors or energy sources, one observer said.

One person familiar with the talks said the word "orderly" came from COP28 president Sultan Al Jaber, who also heads UAE national oil company ADNOC.

Another observer said China agrees with the language.

Europe has called for a harder line.

"I want this COP to mark the beginning of the end for fossil fuels," European climate commissioner Wopke Hoekstra said on Wednesday.

"All 27 European member states want this to be part of the negotiated outcome," he added.

Germany's climate envoy Jennifer Morgan told AFP that "it is necessary that every party move away from their red lines (and) into solutions".

"We need to roll up our sleeves and get it done," she added.

Saudi Arabia's position has come under heavy scrutiny after the world's biggest oil exporter ruled out agreeing to even phase down fossil fuels.

The kingdom's chief climate negotiator Khalid Almehaid said Tuesday that the 2015 Paris Agreement was a "great success for all of us".

"The challenge that we have today is how can we keep that train with all of its passengers," he added.

The Alliance of Small Islands States, which includes some of the world's most climate-vulnerable countries, called for "major emitters to enhance their commitments," including towards a fossil fuels phase-out.

The new draft of the negotiated text expected on Wednesday must be brought to a large plenary meeting taking stock of the first week of talks ahead of a rest day on Thursday.

'Temperature will keep rising'

Meanwhile, the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service said on Wednesday that 2023 will be the hottest on record after November became the sixth record-breaking month in a row.

Last month smashed the previous November heat record, pushing 2023's global average temperature to 1.46C warmer than the pre-industrial era, the service said.

There had been previous warnings this year could take the title of hottest year from 2016 -- particularly after records toppled in September and October -- but this marks the first time it has been confirmed.

November also contained two days that were 2C warmer than pre-industrial levels. Not one such day had ever before been recorded.

Copernicus head Carlo Buontempo said that "as long as greenhouse gas concentrations keep rising we can't expect different outcomes".

"The temperature will keep rising and so will the impacts of heatwaves and droughts." (AFP)
Houston Police Officer William Jeffrey knew danger lurked on the other side of the door when he arrived to serve a felony arrest warrant in September 2021.

What he couldnt have known was how much danger.

Deon, its Houston Police. Lets do this the easy way, Jeffrey said, as his body camera rolled.

Within seconds, a burst of automatic weapons fire pierced the door and struck his chest, ending his life. He was one of many recent victims of what law enforcement officials say is a growing threat: Handguns and rifles illegally modified with a small device to shoot like machine guns. Referred to as Glock switches or auto sears, these devices have proliferated on the streets, officials say, amplifying the impact of gun violence. Tiny, cheap and easy to install, they are being imported from China, but also are being made with 3D printers.

A modified gun used to shoot at police in Pittsburgh. (Alleghany County District Attorney's Office)

My father was shot more than a dozen times, Jeffreys daughter Lacie told NBC News. If the shooter had been firing a regular gun, she said, my dad could have probably gotten out of the way. He probably could have moved. But he didnt have a chance because of the rapid fire.

The gunman, Deon Ladet, was killed when police returned fire. Earlier this year, a man who killed the police chief in Brackenridge, Pennsylvania, fired a converted machine gun at pursuing officers before they shot and killed him. In November, a fleeing suspect shot and wounded a Dallas police officer with a modified handgun.

At the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, machine gun conversion devices have become one of the top enforcement priorities. An ATF report on guns used in crimes found that the number of machine gun conversion devices seized by law enforcement went up 570% from 2017 to 2021, and officials say preliminary numbers from 2023 show another huge increase.

Houston Police Officer William Jeffrey. (Courtesy Lacie Jeffrey)

New machine guns have been against the law in the United States since 1934, the days of Al Capone and the Tommy gun, ATF Director Steven Dettelbach said. But were seeing them all over the place  were talking about the rate of fire being 800 or even 1,000 or more rounds a minute. Think about how many bullets that is.

He said conversion devices are increasing the danger to already-outgunned police officers and increasing the risk of stray bullets hitting bystanders. ATF firearms experts demonstrated the devices for NBC News at a law enforcement firing range in Washington, D.C.

There are all kinds of different machine gun conversion devices that are incredibly deadly, Dettelbach said. Some of them just go on normal Glock-type handguns. This is, this is a Glock weapon, right? Doesnt look like anything different. Right? This little square piece of plastic that comes off the back makes this into a fully automatic weapon that is capable of causing mass casualties.

Converted handguns are extremely difficult to aim and control, he said.

A conversion device on the back of a gun. (ATF)

Handguns are not made or designed to be fully automatic machine guns, he said. When a person hooks this up to fire so many rounds, theres an extremely large kick, it pulls the weapon up.  On the street, what it means is, theres a kid walking two blocks away, coming home from school, or a family in a park, and they may be nowhere near the actual shooting. And were spraying scores of bullets all over our communities and hurting and killing people.

A former Ohio National Guard member was sentenced to almost six years in prison earlier this year in part for using a 3D printer to make conversion devices he sold online. Police found him after he made online threats to Jewish schools and synagogues where he worked as a security guard.

The ATF is trying to catch and prosecute people selling auto switches, but were a very small agency, Dettelbach said. We dont have a lot of resources. But what we have, were focused day and night at trying to keep up with, as one chief of police put it to me, the flood of the switches in our communities.

Not every state matches federal law in making possession of the devices a felony.

Officer William Jeffrey with his daughter Lacey Jeffrey. (Courtesy Lacie Jeffrey)

Lacie Jeffrey is among those pushing to make Texas law match the federal statute.

If someones getting caught with these pieces (in Texas), its just a misdemeanor, she said. In the federal law, its a felony and so were just asking Texas to match the federal side of it. So that way, if these criminals are getting caught with these, the punishments are harsher.

Lacie Jeffrey said she misses her father every day.

My dad thought that he was Superman for Houston, she said. He thought that if he wasnt at work, the city was going to crumble without him. He loved being able to serve his community.

But he was more than a police officer, Lacie Jeffrey said.

He was a father. He was a brother. He was a husband. He was a best friend. He was the everywhere man. He made sure that he was at every family function, whether it was on the East Coast or the West Coast or here at home. He loved his job, but he loved his friends and his family more and we all miss him immensely.
A U.S. Navy destroyer on Wednesday shot down another drone that came from Houthi-controlled Yemen, according to a defense official.

The official said the drone was shot down around 10:20 a.m. local time over the southern Red Sea by the USS Mason, an Arleigh-Burke Class destroyer. There was no damage to U.S. forces or assets.

U.S. forces have been attacked by Iranian-backed forces at least 76 times in both Iraq and Syria since Oct. 17, just days after the Israel-Hamas war broke out, the Pentagon said on Monday.

The Houthis, an Iranian-backed rebel group in Yemen, have traded fire with U.S. forces in the Red Sea several times since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.

The Houthis have also seized or attempted to seize commercial vessels in the region, some of which have been linked to Israel.

On Sunday, the Houthis fired rockets for hours at commercial ships, which were successfully defended by U.S. forces.

That day, the U.S. also carried out a strike against an Iranian-backed group in Iraq, killing five people. The group was preparing to fire an attack drone, according to the Pentagon.

The U.S. is working to create a maritime task force that will defend commercial vessels and tankers in the Middle East region.

Pentagon press secretary Pat Ryder declined to speak on the details, saying only a framework was established. But he said the task force would involve at least 38 other countries.

The Houthi strikes against commercial vessels in international waters underscore the fact that this is an international problem, Ryder said. All three of these ships were sailing in international waters, representing a variety of countries.

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Confusion reigns about a possible change of practice by Europes biggest budget airline, Ryanair, requiring some passengers either to queue for a paper boarding pass at the airport or pay for seat selection. Travellers have accused the carrier of imposing a money-making policy ahead of the Christmas rush.

An airline spokesperson said: There is no new procedure in force.

But some travellers have told The Independent that they were informed the standard option to show a mobile boarding pass on their smart phone was not open to them.

The issue is still far from clear. But these are the key questions and answers about Ryanair check-in and boarding policies as we understand them so far.

Whats the background to Ryanairs check-in requirements?

In 2008, Ryanair became the first airline anywhere in the world to ask passengers to check in online before reaching the airport. The aim was to cut costs: drastically reducing the number of travellers who had to see a check-in agent at a desk, and commensurately allowing Ryanair to pay less for space at the departure airport.

The option of checking in at the airport has remained available  but at a high cost. The fee started at 10, but within a year increased to 40. It is now 55 for each passenger on a booking.

Initially the boarding pass had to be printed out to avoid the charge. This was annoying and difficult for people on holiday abroad.

Soon, though, Ryanair aligned with other airlines that allow boarding passes to be carried on mobile phones and shown while going through the airport and at the departure gate.

Can I use mobile boarding passes everywhere?

No. Ryanair says: We accept mobile boarding passes on flights from the majority of airports on our network. However unfortunately some airports cannot accept mobile boarding passes yet.

These airports including Kefalonia in Greece, the Albanian capital, Tirana, and all airports in Morocco, Turkey, Israel and Lebanon.

Ryanair says: Customers travelling from these airports must check in online and print out a paper boarding pass for their flight.

Wasnt there a controversy about airport check-in earlier this year?

Yes. In August, Ryanair was heavily criticised after charging two elderly passengers 110 at London Stansted airport, after the couple inadvertently checked in for their inbound rather than outbound flight to France.

At the time, a spokesperson for the airline said: In accordance with Ryanairs T&Cs, which these passengers agreed to at the time of booking, they failed to check-in online before arriving at Stansted airport (11 Aug) despite receiving an email reminder (10 Aug) to check in online. These passengers were correctly charged the airport check-in fee.

How do travellers avoid charges for extras on Ryanair?

Simply by declining all invitations to pay for extra services, and complying with the rules on cabin baggage (carrying no more than one small item measuring no more than 40 x 20 x 25cm).

Consider the 15 one-way journey (correct at time of research) from Edinburgh to Shannon on 11 December. Options offered include:

a 10kg checked bag for an extra 18

priority boarding and an additional, larger piece of hand luggage for an extra 22

fast-track security for 7

selecting a seat in advance, a minimum of 8

If all these extras were chosen, the fare would increase by 55  to nearly five times the original price. Passengers, though, are able to opt out of all the extras.

What has happened now?

Some passengers who decline the option to book a specific seat in advance, and instead accept random seat allocation, say they have been told they cannot use an online boarding pass.

They say they were invited to choose between paying for a specific seat, at which point they could use their smart phone, or queue up for a paper boarding pass at a Ryanair desk.

One passenger, Andrew Brown, told The Independent: Ryanair says that you can check in but if you want to avoid queuing for a free-of-charge printed boarding card at check in you should pay for a dedicated seat. Then you can have your boarding card on your phone as before.

He speculated: Theyre trying to discourage people from selecting a free random seat. It was brought in without notice and theres nothing on their website about the policy change.

It puts an end to my practice of taking just hand baggage with no allocated seat and no extras, so just the fare.

Another passenger, Neil Gregory, told the BBC: The app said if I opted for a free random seat Id have to go to check-in to get a paper boarding pass, which Ive never seen before. If you wanted a digital boarding pass, it said you had to pay for a reserved seat.

The BBC said a traveller was told by staff at the airport check-in desk that the new policy was only for the last 20 passengers checking in for each flight.

On a random seat assignment booking for a flight from London Stansted to Italy for 5 December, The Independent experienced no difficulty checking in online as normal and getting a digital boarding pass on a smart phone.

What does Ryanair say?

The Independent has been trying to establish exactly what the airlines policy is.

A spokesperson for the airline said: All Ryanair passengers can pay for a reserved seat if they so wish or if passengers wish to avoid this seat fee, they can select a randomly allocated seat entirely free of charge.

All of this is true, but it does not explain the current issue.

The Independent has asked specifically: I am a regular Ryanair passenger. I always accept random seat allocation. With the exception of certain airports (eg in Morocco) can I always check in using only a boarding pass on my mobile?

So far there has been no response to this question.

What could be going on?

Some background: Ryanair has been conducting a campaign to try to persuade passengers not to buy tickets for its flights through online travel agents (OTAs). One aspect of this involves requiring some passengers who do book through an OTA to go through a series of verification checks before being allowed to check in.

Travellers are told: Your booking is blocked because it looks like it was booked through an online travel agent who has no commercial relationship with us to sell our flights.

Online travel agents often do not provide us with your correct email address and payment details, so we need to verify your identity. We also need to carry out this process in order to ensure we can comply with safety and security requirements.

This very process comes at a cost to Ryanair  as would requiring some passengers to go to a desk at the airport

One theory is that the airline has a new policy of asking some passengers who opt not to select a seat to queue up for a paper boarding pass, in a bid to increase the proportion choosing and paying for a specific seat.

Passenger Andrew Brown said: Im a regular and think Ryanair is great. But this is a stealth charge.

The Independent has seen nothing to substantiate the assertions.

The airline spokesperson said: There is no charge for a Ryanair digital boarding pass  ever.
British photographer Oli Kellett has taken his camera from New York to Rio de Janeiro, obsessively capturing one everyday aspect of big cities: Crosswalks. In his images, these banal parts of urban infrastructure transform into dramatically lit, cinematic scenes featuring people waiting to cross, suspended in a moment of rare peace amid the typical hustle and bustle that goes along with living in a city of millions.

Im interested in the idea of stillness and contemplation, said Kellett in the London gallery HackelBury Fine Art, where a solo show of his work, Waiting for a Sign, has just opened. The large-scale pictures are drawn from his long-running series Cross Road Blues  the title a nod to the Robert Johnson song  which captures people at intersections frozen in contemplation, deciding where to go. For Kellett, this becomes a symbol of the bigger life decisions of choosing a direction.

Oli Kellett's show "Waiting For A Sign" has just opened at London's HackelBury Fine Art. - Oli Kellett

In one photograph, a street cleaner stands alone in a narrow sliver of sunlight, gazing upwards at something out of shot as he begins to cross an unusually empty major road in Boston. In another, a small group of people, all different ages and looking different directions, are caught in the dappled bright light reflected off a building in Chicago, as they choose what to do next.

Kelletts exhibition is accompanied by his first monograph, Cross Road Blues, presenting a curation of the series from start to finish. It begins in Los Angeles in 2016, where the idea evolved unexpectedly. I wanted to make some work about the 2016 election, Kellett explained. He decided to take pictures on Hope Street in Downtown LA, to capture a snapshot of the political climate, with the street choice a reflection on the iconic Shepard Fairey Hope poster of Barack Obama.

Most of Kellett's images were shot in cities across America, often at sunrise or sunset. - Oli Kellett

The idea of creating a politically-infused portrait of a street didnt manifest in the way Kellett imagined, but he did capture one image that stuck: a woman waiting to cross the road, illuminated by golden sunlight. I felt like it was this idea of a political crossroads, Kellett said. But as he took the idea further, capturing more people at crosswalks around the country, he realized: Its not about politics, its about individuals.

Most of the Cross Road Blues images are taken in US cities, from Phoenix and Atlanta to Chicago and Seattle. Grid street layouts lent themselves to capturing crosswalk photos, and the architecture of downtowns formed the perfect backdrop  urban, grey, often not immediately identifiable  to focus on the individuals in the picture. There were some places I went that felt far too romantic, Kellett said, citing New Orleans as an example; those images didnt make the cut. It was almost too beautiful.

Despite the cinematic quality of his images, Kellett insists not a single photograph was staged. - Oli Kellett

Despite needing a certain generic urban-ness for the settings, the pictures are in no way devoid of beauty. Light plays a crucial role, with dramatic shafts of sunshine  particularly at sunrise, sunset or reflected spectacularly off buildings  illuminating the characters of his images in perfectly composed ways.

In fact, it all looks highly orchestrated, like a film set. But Kellett insists that not a single one is staged. The photographs result from him walking around chosen cities, looking for the right street corner  often a few blocks away from the busiest streets  and waiting until the light is just right, the place is peaceful, and there is someone waiting to cross in a way that feels compelling. All these pictures rely on chance, he said.

The series drew to a close in Rio de Janeiro, where Kellett happened to capture a man frozen in an almost John the Baptist-like pose with his finger held aloft towards the sky. I knew this was the end of the project, Kellett said.

The series idea sprung from Kellett's desire to capture images which conveyed a sense of the political crossroads in America in 2016. - Oli Kellett

Indeed, a look back across the pictures reveals the subjects to appear like sacred figures might in historic religious paintings: contemplative, bathed in golden light, often gazing upwards. As such, although the photographs are steeped in a contemporary urban landscape, they betray a timeless sense of humanity.

Kellett isnt sure whats next now the series has ended, but he seems to be leaving it up to chance: Its about walking out the door and not knowing who youre going to find, he said. Or where youre going to go.

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WASHINGTON  Rep. Kevin McCarthy, who this fall became the first speaker to be ousted from power in the middle of a congressional term, said Wednesday he will resign from office at the end of this month.

His exit is a blow to his successor, Speaker Mike Johnson, and House Republicans, further cutting the already narrow GOP majority and making passing legislation in 2024 even more challenging.

"No matter the odds, or personal cost, we did the right thing. That may seem out of fashion in Washington these days, but delivering results for the American people is still celebrated across the country," McCarthy, R-Calif., wrote in an op-ed in The Wall Street Journal.

It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways. I know my work is only getting started, he said.

Former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy on October 24, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Win McNamee / Getty Images, file)

"I will continue to recruit our countrys best and brightest to run for elected office," McCarthy added. "The Republican Party is expanding every day, and I am committed to lending my experience to support the next generation of leaders."

McCarthys timeline means he would depart before the Feb. 13 special election to replace expelled Rep. George Santos, R-N.Y., further cutting the Republican majority to 220 members to 213 Democrats. That means House Republicans could lose just three votes before they require Democratic support to pass measures.

McCarthy paired his retirement announcement with a video on X.

"Today I sit here having served as your whip, leader and as the 55th speaker of the House," he says in the video, citing a list of achievements he's proud of. "We kept our government operating and our troops paid while wars broke out around the world. ... I have faith in this country."

"Now, it is time to pursue my passion in a new arena," McCarthy says, without going into detail about his next move.

Fresh headaches for the GOP

McCarthy was ousted as speaker on Oct. 3, setting off a contentious race to replace him. Eight Republican rebels, led by Matt Gaetz of Florida, forced out the speaker midsession for the first time in history. That night, McCarthy said he feared the institution fell today and quipped that he made a mistake in helping get some of those eight GOP lawmakers elected.

Some McCarthy allies warned that the House vacancies could spell trouble for Republicans in the New Year.

"Congratulations Freedom Caucus for one and 105 Rep who expel our own for the other," Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., said on X. "I can assure you Republican voters didn't give us the majority to crash the ship. Hopefully no one dies."

McCarthy's departure had long been anticipated since his ouster, although his decision to leave before the end of the term will create fresh headaches for his party. Republicans have struggled to pass GOP appropriations bills this fall, and their slimmer majority next year could make it more difficult to pass GOP messaging bills or an impeachment resolution in a key election year.

McCarthy, 58, represents a solidly Republican district based in Bakersfield, California, which his party is expected to hold onto when it comes before voters again in a special election.

But the seat will be vacant for months. California state law says that after a vacancy occurs, the governor must set a special election within two weeks. The special election must be conducted 126 to 140 days after the governors proclamation.

In a statement on X, the new speaker, Johnson, R-La., wished McCarthy well.

"Kevin served the American people and his constituents in Californias Central Valley with honor for nearly two decades," Johnson said, accompanied by a photo of the two.

"As the Republican Leader, he helped secure the House Republican majority twice, and as Speaker he led the Peoples House in its return to regular order after Pelosis Covid lockdowns," he added, referring to McCarthy's predecessor as speaker, Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.

A long career, a short speakership

For McCarthy, winning the speakers gavel in January after a grueling 15-ballot floor fight was the pinnacle of a long political career in Sacramento and Washington.

McCarthy, a former staffer for then-Rep. Bill Thomas, R-Calif., was GOP leader of the California Assembly when Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger was governor, before he succeeded his former boss in the House in 2007.

Ahead of the 2010 midterms, McCarthy teamed with two other conservative rising stars in the party  then-Reps. Paul Ryan of Wisconsin and Eric Cantor of Virginia  charting a road map to win back the House by tackling debt and the deficit and attacking Obamacare. A tea party wave swept Republicans into power that fall, and the trio known as the Young Guns took much of the credit.

McCarthy, one of the GOP's most prolific fundraisers, would hold nearly every major leadership position before he was elected speaker: chief deputy whip, majority whip, majority leader and minority leader.

His ouster this year wasnt the first time he had clashed with conservative bomb throwers. After Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, suddenly resigned in 2015, McCarthy, the heir apparent, ran to replace him but abruptly dropped out of the race on the day of the election because of opposition from the Freedom Caucus  the same group that would help oust him as speaker eight years later, almost to the day.

His decision to bow out and fight another day eventually allowed him to rise to the top job this January. But McCarthy continued to tangle with rabble-rousers in his own party over things like raising the debt ceiling and spending.

And after he averted a government shutdown by passing a short-term funding bill backed by Democrats and the White House, conservatives moved against him, making him the first speaker in history to be removed through a motion to vacate.

His speakership lasted just 269 days  the third-shortest in history.
A 34-year-old Texas man who was arrested after a string of homicides is believed to have first fatally shot his parents before killing four other people in another county, authorities said Wednesday.

The suspect, identified by police as Shane James, was charged in Travis County with multiple counts of capital murder and is expected to remain in custody pending a trial, the Travis County District Attorneys Office said Wednesday in a statement. James was booked into the Travis County Jail in Austin early Wednesday morning, according to jail records.

Based on information obtained over the course of these investigations, we strongly believe that one suspect is responsible for all of these incidents, Austin Interim Police Chief Robin Henderson said.

Murder charges are also expected in the coming days out of nearby Bexar County, where the suspect is believed to have shot his parents in the hours before carrying out the other killings, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said at a Wednesday news conference. The suspect had mental health problems, had previously been arrested on misdemeanor assault charges and had been discharged from the military after a domestic violence incident, the sheriff said.

Shane James, 34, was identified as the suspect in a series of shootings across Texas. - Austin Police Department

The suspect allegedly carried out the homicides at four different locations in Austin Tuesday before he was arrested.

In the morning, he allegedly shot and injured an Austin Independent School District officer. At about noon, he allegedly fatally shot a man and a woman miles away in South Austin, investigators said.

At about 5 p.m., he allegedly shot and wounded a man on a bicycle, authorities said. And that evening, the suspect allegedly shot and injured an Austin police officer who was responding to a call about a burglary at a home, authorities said. Two people were found dead at the home, police said.

That final shooting set off a car chase that ended with the suspect in custody at 7:15 p.m., authorities said.

The relationship, if any, between the suspect and the victims isnt known, authorities said.

Once in custody, the suspect was connected to a home in San Antonio, about 80 miles southwest of Austin, where the bodies of his parents were found. The timing of those deaths was not clear, but police believe that shooting took place in the hours before the Austin violence unfolded.

Suspect was previously arrested, sheriff says

As police in Austin investigated the suspect following his arrest, they connected him to an address in Bexar County and contacted authorities there, Salazar told reporters Wednesday.

Deputies were sent to check out the home Tuesday night and discovered water leaking from the home so they decided to force their way in, Salazar said. The suspects parents were discovered in a small room of the home, the sheriff added.

James is believed to have fatally shot his parents sometime between 10 p.m. Monday and 9 a.m. Tuesday.

There were several gunshots fired from a large caliber handgun, the sheriff said, and asked anyone from the public who may have heard or seen anything that night to contact authorities.

In a previous news conference on Tuesday, Salazar had described the two victims as a very quiet family.

James was arrested in January 2022 for three misdemeanor charges of assault and the victims are believed to have been his parents and a sibling, Salazar said. Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales said in the news conference that the assault allegations involved pushing and scratching.

The suspects family told the sheriffs office a few days later he has mental health issues and did not belong in jail, Salazar said.

The conditions of his bond were altered and James was later released from jail on March 7. A day after his release, he cut off his ankle monitor, the sheriff said. Those three charges then became warrants for his arrest, he added.

In August 2023, deputies received a call from the house for a mental health episode. The suspect was upset and would not let authorities inside his bedroom. Deputies eventually left and asked the suspects father to call so they could return and arrest James, but they were never called back, the sheriff said.

Its always possible that we could have done more, Salazar said Wednesday, regarding the summer incident, but said deputies were making every effort to avoid a violent confrontation.

The suspect was also in the military but was discharged due to some sort of a domestic violence incident in the military, Salazar said. The sheriff said his office found about the military discharge on Wednesday.

It appears, by all accounts, he suffered with mental illness for some years, the sheriff said. From what the family members are telling us, hes had mental health issues for some years based upon some of the history that weve seen.

How the violence in Austin unfolded

In Austin, the first shooting happened around 10:40 a.m., when an Austin Independent School District officer was shot near Northeast Early College High School. The officer was shot in the leg and was stable, Austin Independent School District Police Chief Wayne Sneed said.

The school went on lockdown as another school resource officer assisted the injured officer, Sneed said. It and nearby International High School are closed Wednesday as the investigation continues, district officials said.

Melissa Bowman reunites with her 18-year-old son Oliver Douglass at the Delco Activity Center after a shooting near Northeast Early College High School on Tuesday. - Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman/USA Today Network

A little more than an hour later, Austin Police responded to multiple calls for help at a location about 12 miles away from the high school, Austin Police Sgt. Destiny Silva said Tuesday afternoon during a news briefing.

The callers reported hearing gunshots and stated that there was two possible victims, Silva said.

Our officers arrived on scene at approximately 12:04 p.m. and located a male and a female victim with obvious signs of trauma to their body.

One victim died there and the other was pronounced dead at the hospital, Silva said.

The third incident in Austin occurred around 4:57 p.m., when Austin 911 received a call at 5701 West Slaughter Lane about a male cyclist who said he had been shot. The man suffered non-life-threatening injuries, Henderson, the police chief, said.

About two hours later, a police officer responding to a burglary call in southwest Austin was shot in an exchange of gunfire with a suspect. The officer had non-life-threatening injuries and the suspect wasnt injured, Henderson said.

The suspect fled the burglary scene in a vehicle, Henderson said, and officers pursued him. The suspect crashed the vehicle around 7:14 p.m. and was arrested, the chief said. He had a firearm on him, Henderson said.

During the pursuit, additional officers who responded to the home for the burglary call checked inside the house and found two people dead inside, said Henderson.

After his arrest, the suspect was taken to the Travis County Jail, Henderson said.

Charges related to an outstanding assault and family violence warrant for the suspect are also pending, the chief added.

This story has been updated with additional information.

CNNs Ashley Killough and Eric Levenson contributed to this report.

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A California high school went into lockdown on Tuesday after a student brought a loaded firearm on campus, the second time a student brought a weapon to the school in as many days.

The Redondo Beach Police Department announced that Redondo Union High School went into lockdown on Tuesday at around 9:30 a.m. local time following reports that a student had a weapon on campus.

The student, a 15-year-old sophomore, fled from school staff on foot, prompting the lockdown. The student was apprehended by a school employee and two police officers a short while later, and the lockdown was lifted around 10 a.m.

There was already an increased police presence at the school in response to another 15-year-old 10th grader bringing a loaded weapon to the school on Monday.

Police said there was no evidence of a specific threat or plan for violence," in both incidents. No shots were fired and no one was injured in both cases.

Gun violence: School shootings hit all-time high for second year in a row

A Redondo Union High School administrative building.

Both students, whose identities were not released because they're minors, were arrested on various firearm charges including juvenile in possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm on school grounds, possession of a high-capacity magazine, carrying a loaded firearm in public, and possession of an unregistered loaded firearm.

Unclear if two incidents are connected

The investigation concerning any indication that this incident may be related to the arrest the previous day, the source of the firearm, and other matters related to this incident are part of an ongoing investigation by the Redondo Beach Police Department, officials said.

The cases will be sent to the Los Angeles County Probation Department, who will decide whether to file any charges.

The high school will be closed on Wednesday so police can sweep the campus for weapons and explosives without students and staff being present, school officials said.

Poll: Is stopping gun violence more important than gun rights? Most Americans say yes

When classes resume on Thursday, the school will only have three entry and exit points that will be monitored by police and school officials. Resource officers will be available on campus all day, and there will be increased police patrols across not just the high school but all schools in the district.

The school plans to also have a community meeting to discuss the two incidents on Thursday at 8:30 a.m..

The two back-to-back incidents are something we would never have imagined, school officials said in the release. We are going to need to work together to solve the issue of access to guns. Understandably, our school community will demand and expect RBUSD to ensure student safety each and every day. Pointing fingers and placing blame is not the solution."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Students brought gun to Redondo Union High School in consecutive days
China's educational authorities have called on schools nationwide to enhance disease monitoring, while advising students and teachers with fever or cough to seek timely and scientific medical treatment and not to come to school while sick, as the country continues to witness a surge in respiratory illness this winter.

In the newly released notice on Tuesday, the Ministry of Education of China introduced six key measures to schools and educational departments to guide them in coping with winter epidemics and to maintain the general health of teachers and students and normal study in the educational system.

The ministry warned of a possible overlapping of multiple disease outbreaks. "Scientific and effective responses will be made to respond to overlapping epidemic periods and alternating epidemic peaks of various epidemic diseases that may occur," it noted.

The notice also emphasized the importance of schools maintaining communication with local health and disease prevention departments in order to effectively handle the spread of disease on campuses.

Many places in China reported that acute respiratory diseases continue to rise, and respiratory diseases have entered a high incidence period dominated by influenza, according to the National Health Commission (NHC).

In addition, there have been infections caused by rhinovirus, mycoplasma pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus, adenovirus, and other pathogens. Influenza virus and rhinovirus are predominant in people aged 1-4 years, while the influenza virus, mycoplasma pneumonia and adenovirus are mainly seen in people aged 5-14 years, the NHC said.

"My class has not had a single day with all students present since September. At the worst point, only 12 out of 30 students attended class. Before the increase in influenza cases, mycoplasma pneumonia was prevalent among students," Zhao, a teacher from a primary school in Shijiazhuang, North China's Hebei Province, told the Global Times.

Zhao mentioned that the local education department has been guiding the school in dealing with the rise in respiratory diseases, and one of their recommendations is to ventilate classrooms daily.

Additionally, Zhao stated that the school is required to keep records for temperature monitoring, frequency of ventilation and disinfection, as well as the overall condition of students on sick leave. Educational authorities should occasionally visit to inspect these records.

The ministry's notice also called for the improvement of the epidemic monitoring system, which includes keeping records of diseases and sick leave.

When a cluster infection happens in one class, the local health department may ask to suspend class for four days and the class teacher should explain the suspension to students and their parents, according to the Prevention Knowledge of Influenza (Campus Edition) released by the Guangzhou Municipal Center for Health Promotion in Primary and Secondary Schools in South China's Guangdong Province.

The Guangzhou health department also said students can return to school if their symptoms have gone, have had no signs of fever for 48 hours and can provide proof of recovery from a community hospital.

Both teachers and students who are sick should rest and not go to school, the ministry also emphasized. Previously, some individual hospitals have taken makeshift measures to set up study areas for children in need, including Jiangsu Nantong First People's Hospital, which triggered great controversy and was utilized by some Western media as a means to stigmatize China's response to the epidemic.

While there have been voices encouraging schools across the country to move classes online, Zeng Mei, a deputy director of the infectious disease department with the Pediatric Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, said there's no need to discuss mass suspensions of classes.

Zeng told China News Service that some respiratory diseases like mycoplasma pneumonia exist throughout the year, which is inevitable, with infections being more common in the summer and autumn seasons. She attributed the recent noticeable increase in the number of children infected with mycoplasma to the gathering and interaction among students.

It is expected the incidence of respiratory system infections among children nationwide will show a significant downward trend around January when students have winter holiday, Zeng noted.

Besides educational authorities' stepped up efforts to combat the spike in respiratory illness among children, the top health authorities NHC on Monday also called upon institutions to implement all possible means to increase pediatric service capacity and stock up on pediatric medication.

China's ability to accurately and promptly monitor and track the occurrence of outbreaks and general diseases has significantly improved after three years of battling against COVID-19, Wang Guangfa, a respiratory expert from Peking University First Hospital, told the Global Times.

Wang said there was no reason for exaggerated worry over this respiratory disease spike.

To cope with the current prevalent winter influenza, the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention issued health tips on Tuesday, stating that receiving influenza vaccination is an economical and effective means to prevent influenza, reduce the risk of severe illness and death related to influenza, and significantly reduce the health hazards and diagnostic and treatment pressure on medical institutions. (Global Times)

This article was originally published on Global Times.
BUDAPEST (Reuters) - The U.S. envoy to Budapest sharply criticised the Hungarian government on Tuesday for "disregarding" the interests of its NATO allies and strengthening ties with Russia at a time when its allies are isolating it.

In a speech at AmCham to U.S. companies that have invested in Hungary, Ambassador David Pressman said Hungary has thrived as a member of the European Union and NATO, allowing companies run successful businesses in the Central European country that joined the EU in 2004.

"Yet today, we are increasingly seeing an Ally that relies upon its NATO Allies, but feels comfortable disregarding the interests of those same Allies and our Alliance, including during a time of war in Europe," Pressman said.

"That disregard is evident when the prime minister embraces (Russian President Vladimir) Putin, when his government threatens to hold up crucially needed aid to its neighbor, Ukraine.... When independent media and civil society organizations are investigated and attacked."

Relations between Budapest and Washington have soured because of Hungary's foot-dragging over the ratification of Sweden's NATO accession and also over Prime Minister Viktor Orban's warm ties with Moscow despite the war in Ukraine.

Sweden's NATO membership is pending ratification by

Turkey and Hungary.

Pressman's criticism comes a week before a crucial EU summit due next week where Orban has demanded that European Union leaders should avoid any decision on Ukraine's coveted goal of getting a green light for membership talks even as the country fights Russia's invasion.

Budapest opposes Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but Orban has kept up close relations with Moscow - partly due to Hungary's continued energy dependence on Russia.

Pressman again raised deep concerns about a "sovereignty protection bill" drafted by Orban's ruling party that is waiting to be passed in parliament, saying it would create "a new domestic security agency, armed with unfettered and unchecked investigative powers."

(Reporting by Krisztina Than; Editing by Marguerita Choy)
BEIJING (Reuters) -China's military said on Wednesday it sent fighter jets to monitor and warn a U.S. Navy patrol aircraft that flew over the sensitive Taiwan Strait, a mission that took place weeks before Taiwan holds elections.

China claims sovereignty over democratically governed Taiwan, and says it has jurisdiction over the strait. Taiwan and the United States dispute that, saying the Taiwan Strait is an international waterway.

The U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet said the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance plane, which is also used for anti-submarine missions, flew over the strait in international airspace.

"The aircraft's transit of the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the United States' commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. The United States military flies, sails and operates anywhere international law allows," it said in a statement.

China's military described the flight as "public hype", adding it had sent fighters to monitor and warn the U.S. plane and "deal with it in accordance with the law and regulations".

"Troops in the theatre are always on high alert and will resolutely defend national sovereignty and security as well as regional peace and stability," the Eastern Theatre Command of the People's Liberation Army said in a statement.

Taiwan's defence ministry said its forces monitored the U.S. aircraft as it flew in south through the strait, and described the situation as "normal".

The last time the U.S. Navy announced a Poseidon had flown through the strait, in October, China said it had sent fighter jets to monitor and warn the aircraft.

Taiwan is gearing up for presidential and parliamentary elections on Jan. 13, which China has cast as a choice between war and peace.

China has stepped up its military activity around Taiwan in the past four years, including staging two rounds of major war games over the last year and a half.

(Reporting by Beijing newsroom; Additional reporting by Ben Blanchard in Taipei; Editing by Kim Coghill and Gerry Doyle)
Koh Samui

What despicable shenanigans will the entitled White Lotus guests get up to next? Little is known about season three of the soapy HBO show, set in an ultra-luxury fictional hotel chain. But we do know its setting: Thailand.

The new season is unlikely to be released before 2025, so now is the time to book a trip, before the wild tourism boom unleashed upon Sicily (the location of season two) visits the Southeast Asian nation.

A stunning beachside Four Seasons resort has stood in for the White Lotus hotel in each of the first two seasons, and the company boasts several luxurious properties in Thailand. But our money is on the Four Seasons Koh Samui, on a lush, mountainous island in the Gulf of Thailand whose waterfall-laced, rain-forested interior tumbles down to palm groves and turquoise coves.

Visit the Koh Samui Elephant Kingdom, a sustainable sanctuary for elephants. Courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

Once a backpackers haunt (it makes an appearance in Alex Garlands iconic 1996 novel The Beach), Koh Samui has turned toward the luxury market in recent decades, and 2024 will be its big post-pandemic moment, with new island infrastructure, the arrival of the Michelin Guide, and resorts dropping new spas and beach clubs like coconuts falling from the palms.

Designed by the renowned Bangkok- and Bali-based hotel architect Bill Bensley, each of the 70 freestanding lemongrass-scented villas at the Four Seasons (from $843 a night) has its own infinity pool overlooking the sea.

The tragic White Lotus heiress Tanya McQuoid would have loved it here.

Kangaroo Island

It was a lightning strike that ignited the 2020 bushfires on Kangaroo Island, a habitat for Aussie wildlife and remote-luxury seekers off the coast of

Adelaide. And it was a turn of the winds that put the Southern Ocean Lodge, one of the worlds most iconic hotels, directly in the path of the 328-foot flames.

Heart-wrenching is how James Baillie, who owns the resort with his wife, Hayley, describes its destruction. I can still remember the stench of the fire.

The couple, who first opened the lodge in 2008, made the hard decision to rebuild. If you look on the positive side, how often do you get to do something twice? says James. You get to tweak the little things that you wanted to do differently.

Southern Ocean Lodge experiences in Kangaroo Island, Australia. Courtesy of Luxury Lodges of Australia

This December, the Baillies reopen a bigger and better Southern Ocean Lodge, whose 25 airy suites (from $2,150 per night, all-inclusive) form a wavy line along a rocky bluff to maximize views of the savage sea for which the hotel is named.

Wildlife guide Craig Wickham has chronicled the stunning Kangaroo Island rebirth through documentary video. Within three weeks of the blaze, there were birds flying and animal tracks; this is flowering, thats blossoming, says Wickham. His tour company, Exceptional Kangaroo Island, takes visitors to wineries uncorking their first vintages from replanted vineyards and to watch koalas brunching in rejuvenated eucalyptus forests. In a world where climate-related disasters like those on Kangaroo Island and in Lahaina, Hawaii, will only become more common, natures ability to regerminate from ashes feels like hope.

Normandy

The mirage forms, unbidden, on Omaha Beach in Normandy: American troops waist-high in the water, splashing forward to storm the five-mile beach in the bloodiest part of Operation Overlord, the Allied forces ultimately successful gamble to open a front into Nazi-controlled France.

Luxe bistro cuisine at Ferme Saint-Simeon in Normandy. Courtesy of Ferme Saint-Simeon

Now locals walk their hounds on the butterscotch sand. Tourists will descend upon the region next year as Normandy commemorates the 80th anniversary of D-Day. An impressive, immersive reconception of the D-Day Landing Museum opened last April. Balancing the gravitas is a comfortable quilt of coastal villages, filled in with orchards and dairies famous for Calvados and Camembert.

D-Day isnt the regions only claim to historical significance: These obscenely scenic landscapes played a part in the Impressionist movement in painting too. The harbor town of Honfleur was a favorite haunt of Monet, who painted A Cart on the Snowy Road while staying at Ferme Saint-Simeon. Now a Relais & Chateaux inn, it still offers ultra-cozy vibesplus steam showers and shellfish towers (from $350 a night).

Egypt

As my eyes grew accustomed to the light, details of the room within emerged slowly from the mist, strange animals, statues, and gold, British archaeologist Howard Carter wrote of his 1922 discovery in The Tomb of Tutankhamen. Everywhere the glint of gold.

For the first time ever, a century and change after Carter uncovered King Tuts tomb in the Valley of the Kings, the entire collection will be reunited at a permanent home in Cairos Grand Egyptian Museum. Chronic delays have foiled the billion-dollar state-of-the-art institution better known as the GEM, much to the chagrin of travelers. The GEM is now pinky-promise scheduled to open by early 2024.

The spectacular Great Temple at Abu Simbel is not to be missed on a trip to Egypt. Courtesy of Abercrombie & Kent

The country remains a top travel destination despite violence and unrest in the Middle East. Recent events have understandably heightened awareness, says Stefanie Schmudde, a senior VP at the luxe travel company Abercrombie & Kent. But as of press time, all journeys to Egypt continue to operate normally, she says.

Even if GEMs opening is delayed further, the companys 10-day Egypt itinerary offers a VIP glimpse inside the museum, as well as a Nile cruise.

This article appears in the December 2023/January 2024 issue of Fortune with the headline, "Where to go in 2024."

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
NASHVILLE, Tenn.  There is no secret about the Yankees desire to land Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

Told of manager Aaron Boones sentiment that the Japanese ace would look great in pinstripes, Yankees GM Brian Cashman said, Yes, I would agree with that.

Asked if he planned to meet with Yamamoto soon, Cashman offered a tepid no comment, though Boone hinted Tuesday at being part of those discussions, expected to take place next week.

Competing with the Mets for Yamamoto

Japan pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto throws a pitch against Korea in a baseball semifinal match during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Summer Games at Yokohama Baseball Stadium, Aug. 4, 2021 in Japan.

Yamamotos contract is likely to exceed $200 million, with the Yankees bidding against the Dodgers, Giants, Mets and more for a 25-year-old with an electric arsenal and three straight Sawamura Awards  akin to MLBs Cy Young Award.

The winning bidder must also pay a fee to the Orix Buffaloes for posting Yamamoto, a percentage based on his new contract.

When youre in free agency, youre going to compete, said Cashman, asked about a potential bidding war developing between Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner and the Mets Steve Cohen.

I dont know if anyone can compete with Steve Cohen, whom Cashman called a titan of industry as a multi-billionaire hedge fund manager.

(Yamamoto) is a player of interest and well compete for him and see where that takes us, said Cashman. And itll either be enough or it wont be enough.

Soto, Yamamoto and Ohtani: Our predictions for MLB free-agent signings, blockbuster trades

Yankees' extensive interest in Yamamoto

With trade talks for San Diego Padres slugger Juan Soto stalled as of Tuesday evening, and no interest in superstar free agent Shohei Ohtani  other than a check-in  the Yankees have a ton more incentive to sign Yamamoto next week.

In the Yankees Universe, theres always the pressure to try to do really good, impactful things, said Cashman, while recognizing the clubs long-held interest in Yamamoto.

Weve scouted him extensively and think hes going to be a really successful pitcher anywhere he pitches on the planet, said Cashman, who was in attendance this summer for Yamamotos second career no-hitter.

It made my trip worthwhile, to watch the artistry play out, Cashman said of his journey to Japan, meant to leave no stone unturned in emphasizing the Yanks interest in Yamamoto.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Yankees leading for Yoshinobu Yamamoto? Brian Cashman gives update
The White House on Wednesday scolded the presidents of Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for their responses a day earlier at a House on antisemitism hearing.

Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) asked all the presidents if a call for the genocide of Jewish people would be considered harassment under their campus policies.

None of the trio directly answered the question, saying it would need to be investigated by the school or depended on the context and how pervasive the calls were.

Its unbelievable that this needs to be said: Calls for genocide are monstrous and antithetical to everything we represent as a country, White House spokesperson Andrew Bates said.

Any statements that advocate for the systematic murder of Jews are dangerous and revolting  and we should all stand firmly against them, on the side of human dignity and the most basic values that unite us as Americans, Bates added.

Press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre later on Wednesday said that calls for genocide unacceptable and vile, adding that if someone who worked in the administration made comments like that, they would be called out

Statements that advocate for the systemic murder of Jews are appalling and we should all stand against them, she said. I should not have to be saying this at the podium.

The schools have faced widespread backlash for the comments, with Republican presidential candidate and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley threatening to pull the schools tax-exempt status.

Harvard has tried to backtrack with a new statement from President Claudine Gay clarifying her position on the issue.

There are some who have confused a right to free expression with the idea that Harvard will condone calls for violence against Jewish students. Let me be clear: Calls for violence or genocide against the Jewish community, or any religious or ethnic group are vile, they have no place at Harvard, and those who threaten our Jewish students will be held to account, Gay said.

The Hill has reached out to UPenn and MIT for comment.

Alex Gangitano contributed. Updated at 4:07 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.


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YEREVAN, DECEMBER 6, ARMENPRESS. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, at a meeting with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan in Skopje, presented the Russian vision of geopolitical developments, and Ararat Mirzoyan shared the Armenian sides vision regarding Russias position on various sensitive issues.

Armenian Foreign Minister said during a question-and-answer session in the National Assembly, in response to a query from Lilit Minasya, deputy of the NA "Civil Agreement" faction.

The deputy inquired about the topic of the recent meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during the 30th OSCE Ministerial Council in Skopje, particularly considering the recent complications in Armenian-Russian relations.

Mirzoyan highlighted that the agenda of bilateral relations between Armenia and Russia encompasses a wide range of areas and issues. The two countries also share overlapping interests in regional matters, ensuring that there is always a substantive topic to discuss with Russia.

"We are always pleased to use the opportunities for such contacts. During the meeting, the Russian Foreign Minister presented their vision on recent events and geopolitical developments. We, in turn, shared our perceptions of their positions and our views on the behavior and positions of the Russian Federation regarding various sensitive issues," said Mirzoyan, assessing the meeting as effective.

The deputy noted that after the meeting, the Russian Foreign Ministry published a video where Sergey Lavrov complained about the representative of Armenia in the OSCE.

Yes, I saw a fragment of our meeting, which was spread by the Russian Foreign Ministry. There seems to be some kind of misunderstanding. Sergey Lavrov believed that the initiative for the meeting came from our permanent representative to the OSCE, but the information I had was completely different.

Apparently, there was a technical misunderstanding, which was brought to the attention of the Russian Foreign Minister. The conversation was about who initiated the meeting, and I said that we did not initiate it, said FM Mirzoyan.
YEREVAN, DECEMBER 6, ARMENPRESS. On December 5-6, on the sidelines of his working visit to Tunisia, Deputy Foreign Minister of Armenia Vahan Kostanyan had a meeting with Nabil Ammar, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Migration and Tunisians abroad of the Republic of Tunisia. During the meeting, the Deputy Foreign Minister touched upon the relations between the two countries, briefed on the current situation in the South Caucasus, and also conveyed to Minister Ammar the invitation of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan to visit Armenia, the foreign ministry said.

Following the meeting, the first Armenian-Tunisian political consultations took place between the delegations headed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Vahan Kostanyan and Mounir Ben Rjiba, the Secretary of State to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tunisia.

According to the source, During the consultations, the interlocutors thoroughly touched upon bilateral political and economic relations. Agreements were reached on deepening cooperation in the spheres of education, culture, tourism, civil aviation, healthcare, high technology and other areas of mutual interest.

The sides also touched upon issues on regional and international security.

It is noted that Deputy Foreign Minister Vahan Kostanyan briefed his counterparts on the vision of the Government of the Republic of Armenia on achieving stability and peace in the South Caucasus, the "Crossroads of Peace" project aimed at stimulating regional communications, as well as the actions of the Government of Armenia to address the rights of people forcibly displaced resulting from the ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh.

During the working visit, the sides signed a memorandum on political consultations between the Foreign Ministries of Armenia and Tunisia, as well as an agreement on the establishment of a visa free regime for diplomatic passport holders.
The Union home minister said that if Nehru had taken the right steps, a large chunk of territory would not have been ceded

Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks in the Lok Sabha during the Winter session of Parliament, in New Delhi, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023. (PTI Photo)

New Delhi: The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill.

The House passed the two bills after more than six hours of debate spanning over two days and a spirited reply by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who blamed India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's two major blunders for the sufferings of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill seeks to nominate two members from the Kashmiri migrant community and one representing the displaced persons from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to the Legislative Assembly. The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill seeks to change the nomenclature of a section of people who are eligible for quotas in appointments and admissions.

During the debate on the two bills, Shah blamed India's first Prime Minister for declaring a ceasefire without winning the entire Kashmir and taking the issue to the United Nations.

The Union home minister said that if Nehru had taken the right steps, a large chunk of territory would not have been ceded and PoK would have been part of India.

Shah said: "I support the word that was used here -- Nehruvian blunder. Because of the blunder that was committed during the time of Nehru, Kashmir had to suffer. With responsibility, I want to say that the two big blunders that happened during the tenure of Jawaharlal Nehru, happened due to his decisions, because of which Kashmir had to suffer for years."

Kashmir had to suffer due to 'Nehruvian blunders'. One was that when our Army was winning and as soon as the Punjab area was reached, a ceasefire was declared and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir was born. If the ceasefire had been (declared) three days later, PoK would have been part of India."

He noted that the ceasefire without winning the entire Kashmir was one "blunder" and the other was taking the issue to the UN.

There was an uproar by the Opposition benches over the remarks on the former Prime Minister. They staged a walkout but returned later.

After the Opposition walkout, BJD leader Bhartruhari Mahtab said that the home minister should also talk about the "Himalayan blunder", a reference to Nehru's actions leading up to the war with China in 1962.

Shah quipped that his mention of two blunders upset the Opposition benches, adding that if he had used the phrase Himalayan blunder, they would have resigned.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said that the remarks made were not an insult to anyone and were only made to put things in context.

In his remarks, Shah also alleged that the Kashmir matter was taken to the UN in a hurry.

"If at all it had to be taken to the UN, it should have been sent under Article 51 rather than Article 35 of the UN Charter," he said, asserting that he of course believes that the issue should not have been taken to the UN in the first place.

Shah also quoted Nehru as saying later that the ceasefire was a "mistake".

It was not Nehru's mistake but a blunder. So much land of this country was lost, it was a historic blunder," he said.

Talking about the abrogation of Article 370, the minister said that it had nothing to do with going back on promise as it was a temporary article and had to go.

"You did not have the courage; Prime Minister Narendra Modi showed courage and did away with it," he said, referring to the Opposition benches.

Shah pointed out that the two bills on Jammu and Kashmir seek to nominate two Kashmiri migrant community members, including a woman, to the Assembly.

One seat in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly will be set aside for people displaced from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, he said.

Shah mentioned that more than 45,000 people have lost their lives due to terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir so far.

He informed the Lok Sabha that the government's focus is on ending the terror ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. The zero terror incidents in Jammu and Kashmir plan has been in force for three years and will be successful by 2026.

"I believe the Modi government will return to power in 2024 and by 2026, I hope there will be no terror incidents in Jammu and Kashmir," Mr Shah said.

The minister further pointed out that the two bills will give justice to those deprived of their rights for the last 70 years and asserted that reservation for the displaced people will give them a voice in the Legislature.

Mentioning that had terrorism has been tackled at the beginning without considering vote-bank politics, Kashmiri Pandits would not have left the Kashmir Valley, he said that one of the bills seeks to give representation in the Assembly to those who had to leave Kashmir due to terrorism.

Shah also lashed out at the Congress for talking about backward classes, saying that if any party has harmed backward classes and come in the way of their growth, it is the Congress.
The SC observation assumes much significance as the mining sector contributes nearly Rs 50,000 crore annual revenue to the state exchequer

Bhubaneswar: In a significant development, the Supreme Court on Monday asked the Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Ministry to give its inputs on imposing a ceiling on iron ore mining in Odisha.

The SC observation assumes much significance as the mining sector contributes nearly Rs 50,000 crore annual revenue to the state exchequer. The states total revenue receipts for 2023-24 have been estimated to be Rs 1,85,370 crore.

A possible cap on the mining sector, according to experts, will squeeze the states governments resource mobilisation capability.

According to news agency ANI, a bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud and comprising Justices J.B. Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, was considering an application claiming that the states iron reserves are liable to come to an end within 20 years.

What is the ministry of environments view? it asked as it considered an affidavit filed by the mines ministry, adding that the reply document did not consider the environmental-related aspects.

It cannot be that only the Ministry of mines looks at it. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has to apply its mind and tell us (on imposing a camp), the bench said.

Additional solicitor general Aishwarya Bhati, representing the Centre, submitted that a fresh affidavit from the expert ministry will be placed on record.

Opposing the application, senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, appearing on behalf of the Odisha government, submitted that the availability of resources has grown with increasing consumption and the future generation is not just not going to process this raw material.

This iron ore leads to production of steel which is important for defence, all industries, and expanding railways. Any curtailment is going to mean that the future will suffer much more, he said, adding that intergenerational equity should not be looked at from the point of view of a particular resource only.

Dwivedi also contended that the argument that resources will be exhausted in the next 20-25 years has no basis.

In a hearing held in August, the top court had asked the Union government to decide whether a cap on mining is necessitated in the case of the state of Odisha and, if so, the modalities to be followed for determining such a cap, the news agency reported.

It had added that in arriving at its decision, the Union of India shall also examine the basis on which a cap was imposed in the states of Karnataka and Goa. Also, the apex court called for a fresh status report from the state government on the issue of recovering outstanding dues on account of illegal mining and attaching the assets of the defaulting entities.
After the results in 3 states  Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan  many top leaders had alleged neglect of the INDIA bloc

Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has ruled out speculation about any internal strife within the INDIA bloc following the Congress' electoral debacle in the recent Assembly elections in three states.

Nitish Kumar also dismissed reports about his refusal to attend the INDIA bloc meeting, that was originally scheduled for December 6. Talking to reporters in Patna, Kumar termed such reports as baseless and said he would attend the next meeting.

There have been reports that I wont attend the meeting. This is not true, why would I refuse, everyone knows that I worked hard for the unity of Opposition parties. I was not well and even had a mild fever. Whenever there is a meeting I will attend it. Kumar said.

In his statement to the media, Nitish Kumar dismissed reports about personal ambition, and emphasised the need for unity in the INDIA bloc in facing the BJP at the Centre.

In the next meeting, I am going to ask political parties to finalise all important issues without further delay. The unity of Opposition parties is in the interest of the country, Nitish Kumar said.

The Congress plan to organise a top leaders meeting on December 6 was postponed after a few top INDIA leaders, including Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren declined to participate.

Former UP chief minister and Samajwadi boss Akhilesh Yadav had also decided to skip the meeting due to other engagements.

Sources said that the meeting scheduled for Wednesday was likely to be held in the third week of December. However, RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav said that the decision has been taken to call a meeting on December 17 as many political parties had other engagements on Wednesday.

Earlier this week, after the results in three states  Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan  several top political leaders in the state had alleged neglect of the INDIA bloc during the election campaign.

Nitish Kumars party, the JD(U), was among those which highlighted the Congress Partys indifferent and negative behaviour exhibited throughout the Assembly election campaign in the Hindi heartland.
This is also the first time Mizoram has elected three women MLAs -- two from the ZPM and one from MNF.

The election results in Mizoram were along the expected lines. Anti-incumbency was imminent and the Mizo National Front (MNF) was tried and tested, and found wanting. The Zoram Peoples Movement (ZPM), a conglomerate of regional forces, was a movement for a new thinking that a progressive new generation of Mizos seeking change have voted for. The ZPM accused outgoing CM Zoramthanga of corruption and nepotism. Of course, Mizoram benefits from having an educated and near literate population (91.93%) and a largely informed electorate. The district with the lowest literacy rate is Lawngtlai (65.88%). If there is one thing that marks todays Mizoram, and for which Aizawl, the capital, is the indicator, it is the spirit of enterprise of the youth. Several young women and men who have studied or been trained outside the state are now back nursing their own little start-ups.

This is also the first time Mizoram has elected three women MLAs -- two from the ZPM and one from MNF. The Congress has unexpectedly done very poorly, with only one candidate winning, while the BJP got two MLAs, one more seat since the 2018 election. The MNF is now reduced to 10 MLAs. Political observers from Mizoram say they are rather chary that the ZPM, a new party with several new, young faces and with an absolute majority, will not have to face a strong Opposition. Their view is that a strong Opposition will ensure better checks and balances.

ZPM leader Lalduhoma, a former IPS officer, who first cut his teeth in Goa and later became the security in-charge of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in New Delhi, will be Mizorams new chief minister. In 1984 he was first elected to the Lok Sabha, but also became the first MP to be disqualified under the anti-defection law. In 2020, Lalduhoma faced disqualification as an MLA, but returned after winning Serchhip. The new Mizoram CM therefore has quite a colourful political career.

In an interface with the media, Lalduhoma said the ZPM was formed in 2018 to provide an alternative to the people of Mizoram. He said people have had enough of the MNF and Congress and were ready for a change, and the ZPM would bring that much-needed change in the government and administration. What perhaps turned the tide against the Congress and MNF was that people have seen their performance since Mizoram was born in February 1987. The most well-known Congress face in Mizoram, Lalthanhawla, also the longest serving chief minister, faced serious charges of amassing disproportionate assets. He was linked to a businessman, Jodhraj Baid, and his accountant Puspa Sharma. Zoramthanga faces no such direct charges but is accused of nepotism.

In Mizoram, it has been either the Congress or MNF that people elected to govern the state. In 1998, the Congress lost to the MNF, which ruled for 10 years before the Congress wrested back power to rule for 10 years from 2008 to 2018. Again, in 2018, Mizoram elected the MNF to power. It is only to be expected that this power play between two dominant parties -- one riding the wave of Mizo nationalism as the party that signed the Mizoram Accord, which ended the nearly 20-year insurgency, and the Congress, with its claim of being a signatory to the truce and ushering in peace in Mizoram -- would one day wilt and people would aspire for change.

Lalduhoma has said his government would come up with a 100-day agenda that would set the states priorities. His statements after the win spelt out the ZPMs broader agenda: to expand secularism and protect regional minorities. This is a direct challenge to the BJPs idea of one nation, one language, one religion. It would not have been lost on the tribal Christians of Mizoram when former Lok Sabha Speaker Kariya Munda belligerently asserted that those tribals who convert to Islam or Christianity must not get any benefits of reservation meant for tribals. These utterances coming in the backdrop of RSS activities in the region and its intent to co-opt those practicing indigenous faiths in Meghalaya, for instance, and bringing them under the larger umbrella of Hinduism is jarring, to say the least.

But perhaps what also resonated with Mizorams people is the ZPMs promise to reimpose the ban on liquor, lifted by earlier governments on the plea that Mizoram could use local fruit to produce wine and earn some revenue. Mizoram is also battling drug addiction and tackling this social menace too is the ZPMs priority.

Interestingly, Lalduhoma has declared that the ZPM will not align with the government at the Centre but that the party would lend issue-based support to it. This is to maintain the prestige of the people of Mizoram, who voted overwhelmingly for the ZPM, and to remain an independent regional party free from Delhis control. No chief minister in the past has had the gumption to make such an overriding statement. On the contrary, all state governments in the Northeast, after being elected, tend to align with whichever government is in power at the Centre. The chief ministers contend that they need Central funds and it makes sense to be on the same page with whichever government is ruling in New Delhi. It is in this aspect that the ZPM bucks the trend. It remains to be seen if the Centre would put a spoke in the wheels as far as speedy allocation of development funds for Mizoram is concerned.

Recognising that Mizoram is an agrarian-based economy, the ZPM has clearly outlined its agenda for farmers. Lalduhoma said his government would procure ginger, turmeric, chilli and broomsticks at a minimum pre-determined price to support farmers. The priority given to farmers clearly shows that the ZPM has done its homework and its policies are well grounded. The incoming CM, having seen things from close quarters, also says the states finances are in a shambles and therefore an expert committee would be constituted to put fiscal reforms in place.

Another important commitment that couldnt have been lost on voters is zero tolerance for corruption, and granting the CBI full permission to act in all such cases. Corruption indeed is the bane of all the northeastern states. Successive Central governments have tried to win the loyalty of the people in the region by giving funds, that unfortunately have landed in the pockets of a small tribal political and business elite.

Mizoram could show the way to the entire country in how it tackles corruption under a new government.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

The local authorities have decided to close the museum room where the famous writer Varlam Salamov wrote the Tales of Kolyma, the most intense narration of the life of the deportees in Siberia at the time of Stalin. The decision followed a complaint about the precarious condition of the building, a symbol of a memory that is increasingly troublesome in Russia today.

Moscow (AsiaNews) - The authorities of Kolyma, the region of the Russian Far East around the river of the same name between Yakutsk and Magadan, have decided to close the museum-room where the famous writer Varlam Shalamov wrote the Kolyma Tales, the most intense narrative of life in the Siberian concentration camps in Stalin's time together with books by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn and Vasilij Grossman. The memorial site was arranged in the village of Debin, open since 2005, on the centenary of the writer's birth.

Shalamov had been admitted to the local clinic, now exhausted from hunger and the very heavy forced labor of the concentration camp, located in one of the coldest areas in all of Russia, where the temperature can drop to 60 degrees below zero.

Dissident memory activists had organized the mini-museum inside the clinic, which has now been officially closed by the Magadan region's health ministry, although the decision clearly came "from higher up", as local officials confide.

The decision to close was prompted by the reportage of a local journalist, who visited the Salamov Museum a month ago, reporting on the precarious conditions of the clinic building, to invite the authorities to intervene.

As the historian Ivan Dzukha, who has dealt with the issue in recent years, explains, as always they wanted to do better, and it went as usual The tuberculosis clinic was in fact in poor condition and its closure was scheduled for 2027, due to a renovation, because no one had the courage to openly propose its demolition".

The building was one of the most impressive in all of Kolyma, and its memorial importance made it a "sacred place" of a memory that today becomes increasingly annoying for a regime that closely resembles Stalin's.

Salamov survived almost by a miracle after hospitalization, when he arrived as a dokhodjaga ("lowest being") and now almost "arrived at socialism", the expressions of the concentration camps to define a person on the verge of death. Instead he recovered, and in the hospital room he began to write poems and stories, despite still being a prisoner, which spread through the samizdat channels throughout the country, reaching as far as the West.

The outcry in the press over the conditions of the memorial was considered an obstacle to the increasingly bombastic rhetoric that in Russia accompanies the start of the electoral campaign for the re-election of the "supreme leader", and local officials were frightened by the possible consequences.

The head doctor of the hospital wrote to the minister of health, who involved the governor until reaching the Kremlin, from which the closure order came.

Dzukha himself (son of citizens originally from Mariupol of Greek ethnicity, and therefore sent to the concentration camp) a year ago had gathered a group of volunteers to begin the restoration work on the museum-room, in agreement with the management of the clinic, reorganizing also the exhibition of various objects from the daily life of the zek, the inmates of the concentration camps.

Along with the tools of forced labor it was possible to visit Shalamov's personal library, donated by the family of a close friend of the writer, Irina Sirotinskaja, and also the originals of his diaries, written on makeshift paper. The museum supported itself thanks to donations from activists and visitors.

The building, although in defective conditions, had been built in the 1930s as Stalin's pride of the "Kolyma of the future", with concrete corridors and high-power heating batteries, handcrafted furniture, and doctors of all specializations worked there , taken from among the same inmates of the concentration camps, with two surgical departments and two for the treatment of tuberculosis, and also an entire female section.

Shalamov had ended up there after his second arrest in 1937, receiving another 5-year sentence for Trotskyist counterrevolutionary activity, an anti-Stalinist heresy that believed in universal revolution, instead of venerating the Georgian dictator's exaltation of superior Russia. Almost a century has passed, and the lack of faith in Russia continues to be persecuted and oppressed.
"Fierce fighting" is underway in the Strip, but violence is mounting in the West Bank as well. Since the end of the truce, more than a thousand Palestinians have been killed. The families of Israeli hostages meet and slam Netanyahu. A Danish scholar remembers Gazas historical, cultural, and artistic value to Christians, Muslims, and Jews. The future of its people is at risk.

Jerusalem (AsiaNews)  The Israeli military announced that fierce fighting" is taking place in Gaza with intense airstrikes causing numerous victims and a long trail of blood; since the end of the temporary ceasefire on 1 December, at least 1,207 Palestinians have died, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) reports.

Hope for a de-escalation of the conflict when fighting halted for a few days to allow Israel and Hamas to exchange prisoners for hostages proved premature as recent developments show.

Israeli planes have hit more than 250 Hamas targets in Gaza but are also carrying out strikes in southern Lebanon, in particular near the demarcation line.

For the Israeli government, at least a month of "pressure" is still needed before talking about a new truce with Hamas, ruling out a new prisoner exchange in the near future.

This position has led the families of the hostages to criticise Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a meeting yesterday, which saw moments of great tension.

Israel Army Radio announced new attacks in the north and south of the Gaza Strip, where at least 138 Israeli and foreign hostages are still held by various militant groups.

Violence is also mounting in the West Bank, where two more Palestinians were killed in clashes with Israeli soldiers at the Al-Fara refugee camp and 11 more people were wounded near Nablus.

The war has displaced 600,000 people in the south of the Strip and killed 16,330 Palestinian, 75 per cent of them women and children, this according to Hamas (while Israel has reported more than 1,200 Israeli dead).

One of the risks is that Gaza's historical and cultural heritage might be erased forever. Jakob Skovgaard-Petersen, professor of Islamic and Arabic studies at the University of Copenhagen, former director of the Danish-Egyptian Dialogue Institute in Cairo from 2005 to 2008, sounded the alarm in a long article in Point of View International (POV), an online Danish publication.

The scholar says that Gazas fate resembles that of other cities in the region devastated by war, from Aleppo to Mosul. "In the last ten years," he writes, "some of the oldest cities in the world have been brutally razed to the ground", cities comparable to Amsterdam, Madrid and Glasgow", with their "art, culture and history" lost.

One of the buildings that symbolises the destruction in Gaza is the Al-Shifa hospital, the largest in Gaza City. "[B]esieged, bombed and searched," it is named after Kitab al-Shifa, the Book of Healing, written by philosopher and physician Ibn Sina (d. 1037).

Many modern hospitals and pharmacies have been named after him and his books. He authored a medical book that was the most advanced for many centuries and a reference in medicine until the 17th century.

Moreover, "the thinly woven cotton fabric for dressing wounds, gauze, takes its name, like many other imported goods, from the place from which it came: Gaza, Prof Skovgaard-Petersen points out.

The Islam specialist notes that Gaza was once a "Christian city" and Christians have contributed to its development with the creation of two prestigious schools, one of which was founded on the initiative of Yasser Arafat.

The school run by the Sisters of the Rosary, hit hard in November, has educated many Muslim students. The Latin parish of the Holy Family and the church of St Porphyry are symbols of the devastation of Israeli airstrikes that hit the heart of Gaza's Christian community.

Gaza, writes Skovgaard-Petersen, also has one of the greatest saints in both Catholic and Orthodox traditions, Vitalis (died circa 625 AD), who became a symbol of day labourers and the charity work for helping prostitutes with whom he prayed at the end of the day.

"Day labourers are still a major force in Gaza, and Gazans have been standing in long lines for years to work for Israeli employers on the other side of the border." This source of income was crucial for many families, which the war has ended causing further impoverishment.

The symbolic city has also been linked to the Jewish tradition since the time of the Crusades, so much so that it became "a centre of Jewish trade and learning in the 13th century. It was in Gaza that the Jewish mystic Nathan of Gaza proclaimed in 1665 that the messiah had now arrived in the form of another mystic, Shabtai Zvi (died in 1676)."

Finally, with respect to Islam, he writes that the link "goes further back before the Muslim conquest" in the year 635. In fact, In one of the city's oldest mosques there is a tomb for the prophet Muhammad's great-grandfather Hashim, and it is said that it was here that Umar had traded and earned his money before he converted to Islam.

For many centuries, strategic located Gaza was a "stage" for many of the "great empire builders: Egyptians, Babylonians, Persians, Alexander, Romans, Mongols, Ottomans and British."

However, in the last century, in the age of "nationalism", the city has experienced progressive isolation, turning into an "open-air prison" and is now a heap of ruins.

From a cosmopolitan centre, Gaza City has become a terminus. But if its people are to have a future, Gaza's history and culture must also be able to rise from the ashes," starting by protecting and saving its inhabitants.
by Santosh Digal

The south of the country is still shaken by the jihadist attack on the mass on 3 December, which also distances the prospects of the return of displaced Muslims from Marawi. Interfaith groups are responding to the violence with initiatives of dialogue and confrontation. Hundreds of people of all faiths have joined the initiative. Conversion of hearts and safe spaces against those who feed terror.

Pagadian City (AsiaNews) - The attack carried out by the Islamic State during a mass on 3 December in the gymnasium of the Mindanao State University in Marawi, with its four deaths and dozens injured, bloodied the 2023 Peace Week scheduled in Mindanao from November 30 to December 10.

The event was promoted and supported by the Philippine Church, which for the archbishop emeritus of Cagayan de Oro, the Jesuit mons. Antonio Javellana Ledesma, was supposed to symbolize the "Homecoming" of peace, harmony and dialogue in the south of the country.

This has been fueling the pain and desperation of the Muslim community and internally displaced persons who continue to suffer from the lack of stable accommodation since 2017, following the siege of the city launched by the Maute group associated with ISIS.

However, the promoters of the Week of Peace and the hundreds of participants underline that in the face of these bloody events, in the face of violence, it is even more urgent and important to respond with dialogue and by carrying out initiatives of meeting and discussion.

Catholic activist Marites Guingona Africa told the 850 people present at the opening day last November 29 in Pagadian City (Zamboanga del Sur), "as a representative of The Peacemakers' Circle, I launched a challenge: to find peace in our homes, where our hearts reside."

Added to this is the workshop the following day focused on the "creation of safe spaces" for dialogue between three different realities: Christians, Muslims and the Subanon tribals, the first project of the Interreligious Forum for Solidarity and Peace (Ifsp) in Pagadian, of recent training. Leading it were Fr. Felix Tigoy, Ifsp coordinator, Timuay Jose Macarial representing the indigenous population, Sister Marjorie Guingona and the Muslim leader Bong Balimbingan.

Over the last 20 years, efforts and initiatives aimed at interreligious dialogue and brotherhood have multiplied in the Philippines, with the attempt to translate projects and initiatives of harmony and solidarity into practical action.

Nonetheless, this philosophy has not yet become a real force for social and cultural change as hoped by its promoters. It is frustrating, says the Catholic activist, due to the "little progress" made so far towards a "true conversion of hearts".

Wars - adds Marites Guingona Africa - are fought by involving the religious sphere even today. What good is our religion or our faith tradition if it cannot be a resource for peace instead of a source of conflict, if it cannot be a source of comfort to us and a healing force for our weary souls? the activist finally asks.

If we want the hope of true and lasting peace to become a reality, observed Fr. Felix Tigoy, it is necessary to create safe spaces within and around us, where our hearts and minds can respectfully meet in our diversity.

The priest believes it is essential to create places where "we can respect our differences and relate to each other beyond a simple invitation to tolerance". True conversion in interreligious dialogue, he warns, is "the conversion of the heart, so that people can see the presence of God in others".

This is what "dialogue beyond tolerance" means, he concludes, but it is only possible when "people manage to bring out the highest teachings and ideals of their respective religions and faith traditions not only through external actions, but above all through work inner".
Savannah Rose is a contributor to Writers on the Range (writersontherange.org), an independent nonprofit dedicated to spurring lively conversation about the West. She lives in Jackson, Wyoming, and is a wildlife photographer who cares about keeping ecosystems intact.
A little while ago, Donut Media released a video series wherein they bought a $500 Honda Civic with more miles on the clock than a spaceship practically, ripped out all its internals, and spent tens of thousands putting top-of-the-line performance drivetrain and interior hardware inside it. Well, we think we've just found another candidate for this kind of restoration. If there were ever a car fit for that kind of treatment, it's this 1995 Ford Crown Victoria sedan with an astounding 360,000 miles (579,363.8 km) on the odometer.

This particular car comes to us today via the Shooting Cars YouTube channel run by the quirky, high-energy car enthusiast Zack Pradel. Zack's channel focuses primarily on older cars you no doubt completely forgot even existed alongside the obligatory modern riff-raff. Guests in front of his camera include a 1966 Dodge Monaco , a mid-80s Renault Encore economy car, and even an R31-series Nissan Skyline. But it's safe to say very few of the older hunks of iron on Zack's channel bear quite as many road scars as this Crown Vic.Three hundred sixty thousand miles isn't far off from the distance from the Earth to the Moon and back. As such, a car with very nearly as many miles as Apollo 13's lunar lander is going to have some rust just about everywhere. Granted, this old Vic could probably withstand re-entering the Earth's atmosphere better then the LEM could. But seeing deep pits of rust slowly consume each of this Crown Vic's quarter panels is almost painful to watch. That's doubly so because, believe it or not, the current owner of this car was taken home from the gosh-darn hospital as a newborn in the back seat of this car. Only when the car was passed down to him and later sold to a friend did they park outside in the nasty Illinois weather.Yeah, it was pretty much game over for this Crown Vic's bodywork from that point on. But as Zack eagerly points out, the rest of this car might as well be in perfect working order. That includes that ever-present 4.6-liter, single-overhead cam Ford modular V8 and its four-speed automatic transmission. Even after all this time, Ford's arguable most reliable engine in its history fails to skip a beat on hard highway pulls and everyday in-town traffic like we're still in the Clinton administration. Seriously, how many cars from the mid-90s with this many miles can claim to be in half as good of shape? Apart from a few Nissans, Hondas, and Toyotas, not much.Ironically, it's almost a breath of fresh air watching a car that so valiantly fought Midwest winters for almost 30 years get the same review treatment as a brand-new car. It's another reason we love showcasing smaller channels like Zack's mixed in with the Stradman and Mr Beasts of the world. Check out the full review down below.
4WD

In fact, this 'fresh' Fiat Titano looks like a badge-engineered Peugeot Landtrek , which in turn is based chiefly on the Chinese mid-size truck Changan Kaicene F70. So, Stellantis just served us with a double surrogate of a little-known mid-size pickup truck model  or bakkie, as they like to call it across a major market, South Africa.Luckily for most of the world, the Fiat Titano is not precisely destined for international greatness  instead, it will be offered across Latin America and the African continent. But a word of caution first about Fiat's convoluted pickup truck history. Not the most expansive automotive brand these days, the mainstay Italian marque has always played with the commercial sector, and they offer models like the Fiorino pickup, Strada, or Fullback, even in Europe.In fact, the latter  save for its Fiat badges  was actually a very respectable Mitsubishi Triton (L200) underneath. The truck was mechanically identical to the fifth generation L200, had the same engines, and was even assembled in Laem Chabang by Mitsubishi Motors Thailand! Still, you could claim it with Mopar's customizations if you wanted. However, its short stint on planet Earth ended swiftly, and this decade has been without a mid-size Fiat pickup truck for the past three years.Well, the draught has finally ended with the official introduction of the new Titano in Latin America and Africa as part of Fiat's semblance of a global product offensive. For now, the new model was revealed in two major markets  Brazil and Algeria. According to the company, which doesn't mention the Peugeot Landtrek or the Chinese parent, the new Titano "offers multipurpose usage focusing on design, technology and off-road capability in Brazil and fuel efficiency, robustness and technological features in Algeria."The difference is that each market will get separate powertrain options. In Brazil, the new Titano model will join the Toro and Strada to make up a larger pickup truck family  its mission is to "seamlessly integrate multipurpose functionality with cutting-edge technology and uncompromised comfort. Designed to navigate rugged terrains easily, this pickup is poised to be a formidable companion for every day, with a mission profile to satisfy all working needs, including those of the agricultural sector."Meanwhile, Algerian customers experience a different Titano in Africa as it "pivots towards placing a premium on fuel efficiency." However, there's one itsy bitsy tiny little problem with this strategy. We can't give any words of wisdom on whether the company is doing the right thing or not because Fiat hasn't said a word about the actual engines it plans to use in Latin America and Africa.As such, we have no idea what's under the hood of the Titano, and we can only speculate that it may offer the same range of powertrains as the Landtrek  a 2.4-liter turbo gasoline mill with 207 hp mated to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission and RWD plus two diesels, one 1.9-liter with 148 hp and optionaland another larger 2.2-liter BlueHDi packing over 200 ponies. If we had to guess, the Fiat Titano could receive at least the gas and base diesel options  the first one for Brazil and the other for Algeria.
Tesla finally delivered the Cybertruck this year as promised, and the next waypoint is the production of its next-generation EV model. Initially planned to start production in Mexico, the $25,000 EV is now slated for production at Giga Texas, as confirmed by Elon Musk during an interview with "teardown titan" Sandy Munro.

EV

Photo: Tesla

The development of an affordable Teslahas been rumored for a few years. However, the pandemic and the supply chain mayhem that followed made Elon Musk consider the low-cost EV as an unnecessary distraction. He famously said that Tesla has "more than enough on its plate" to start work on a cheap model.Those were the times when car prices went through the roof, and the most affordable Tesla EV, the Model 3 SR, started at $47,000. Even so, Tesla could not produce enough of them, so a more affordable model would not have made sense.Things changed quickly in 2023 when Tesla reversed the price hike trend with the highest price cuts the automotive market has ever seen since the Ford Model T era. Many thought the discounts were in line with Tesla's mission to bring to market electric vehicles everyone could afford. However, it was about the same time that demand for Tesla EVs (and cars in general) waned. It was also when Elon Musk revived the idea of an affordable EV.As revealed later by Walter Isaacson in his book about Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO reluctantly agreed that an affordable EV makes sense to expand Tesla's addressable market. What convinced him was the possibility of building the low-cost model on the same platform as Tesla's upcoming robotaxi, spreading the development costs for Tesla's next-generation platform.Tesla planned a completely new gigafactory for the high-volume EV and announced plans to build Giga Mexico in Nuevo Leon. The new gigafactory would employ a revolutionary manufacturing process called "unboxed vehicle," aimed to increase efficiency and reduce factory footprint. Unfortunately, Giga Mexico plans were put on the back burner as unexpectedly as they were announced.Despite Tesla claiming that the plans for the Gen-3 EV platform have been finalized, it did not offer any update on the Gen-3 vehicles or Giga Mexico. Recent footage from the factory location in Monterrey, Mexico, shows that nothing has changed on the ground, and no groundbreaking ceremony has been announced. The latest information points to Tesla building the unboxed-vehicle production line at Giga Texas instead, where the next-gen EVs will also start production.This move was thought to accelerate the development, as Giga Texas is already operational. Musk implied that the affordable EVC might start production before Giga Mexico is up and running. Still, the fact that no stone was moved since the Giga Mexico announcement shows that Tesla might have second thoughts about the factory.In a recent interview with Sandy Munro, Elon Musk reaffirmed plans for the low-cost EV, saying the EV maker is "quite far advanced" in developing the high-volume EV. Musk also confirmed that the affordable model will be first produced at Giga Texas, with the upcoming Gigafactory Mexico being the second manufacturing facility.Musk also said that Gigafactory Berlin will eventually build a low-cost car. With Germany's high wages and utility prices, this does not make much sense. However, another factory in Asia, possibly in India , would be more appropriate to build an affordable EV. You can watch the full interview below, with the discussion about the affordable EV starting about 30 minutes into the interview.
A wealthy superyacht owner parted with his custom pleasure craft after just five years and didn't even have to wait too long  the eye-catching Van Tom found a new owner in just one month.

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Serial yacht owners are called that for a reason. These millionaires and billionaires are always looking for the newest, most spectacular luxury toys, and one is never enough. The Van Tom superyacht, an ultra-luxurious Heesen semi-displacement vessel, was reportedly commissioned by Thomas Manchot, described by the yacht's broker as an experienced owner.The German tycoon enjoyed his new toy in full privacy  Van Tom was never chartered throughout the five years since its delivery, which is why it's not as well-known as other Heesen models. Still, it's a short period of time in the world of superyachts. Some owners hold on to their pleasure craft for decades, although that's rare. Most often, they'll go from one luxury boat to the next, usually a bigger and even more expensive model.The Heesen pedigree would be enough to confirm this 164-footer (50 meters) value. Heesen is one of the top superyacht builders worldwide, known for some of the most iconic vessels of all time. But there's more. Van Tom is also a high-speed luxury yacht , which makes it particularly attractive for those who want more than just sunbathing and sipping cocktails in the jacuzzi.This aluminum floating mansion is also a rare catch as the sixth hull in an eight-unit series. It boasts both remarkable speed and interior volume for a yacht in this size category. Part of the Heesen 5000 Aluminum Class, Van Tom features exterior design by Frank Laupman and the Omega Architects team and luxurious interiors by the Francesco Paszkowski and Margherita Casprini dream team (this duo won several prestigious awards for their design projects).Twin 3,860MTU 16V 4000 M73L diesel engines, in addition to the ultra-performance hull design, enable this 164-footer to reach a 23-knot (42.5 kph) top speed. At half the speed, it can smoothly cover more than 3,000 nautical miles (5,555 km). During its sea trials in the North Sea, the Dutch yacht exceeded all expectations, reaching its maximum speed even though the sea conditions were particularly rough that day, and the winds were blowing at 16 knots (29 kph).A thrilling-speed toy, Van Tom is also lavishly comfortable. At a little under 500 GT, it's the largest-volume yacht in its size category. This allows it to accommodate more than ten guests and a large, nine-person crew. Plus, it boasts a unique layout with not just a full-beam master suite but also a full-beam VIP suite.With such impressive features, it's no surprise that the Dutch high-speed yacht was snatched off the market in a record time of four weeks. The new owner is still a mystery, but he was willing to pay more than $30 million (the yacht's last known asking price) for this luxury toy. Still young, Van Tom has many more years of exhilarating speed rides ahead.
A German air mobility startup has designed what it claims to be the first eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) jet in the world, and it's working with some of the top names in the industry to equip this flying machine for ultimate performance and sustainability.

The work behind a single eVTOL concept is phenomenal, and it's always a team effort, involving most often multiple experts from around the world. The highly-anticipated Lilium jet, developed by the company with the same name, may be German at heart, but it will feature systems and technologies from international aerospace giants such as GKN and Honeywell.At the beginning of this year, the Munich-based eVTOL maker announced its partnership with GKN Aerospace. The Lilium jet will be equipped with GKN's integrated EWIS ((electric wiring interconnection systems) solution for high-voltage and high-power interconnections. GKN will build the EWIS hardware for the German aircraft at its facility in the Netherlands. The system will then be integrated into the eVTOL jet on-site at Lilium's final assembly facility in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany.Honeywell is another industry giant joining the groundbreaking air mobility project. The company has recently confirmed that it will supply Lilium with flight controls, the Anthem Avionics, and the Honeywell-DENSO electric motors.In addition to that, the all-electric air taxi will feature Honeywell's MicroVCS (vapor cycle system) thermal management system. This technology is particularly suitable for eVTOLs and is innovative in terms of sustainability. Due to technical innovations, the system is 22% lighter overall compared to conventional ones, which translates to drastically lower CO2 emission levels per year. The refrigerant used for the MicroVCS also boasts 10% better hot-day power efficiency compared to the previous generation.The German air mobility company has also secured important partnerships for large-scale battery production. InoBat will produce battery cells at two factories in Voderady, Slovakia  Volta 1 and Volta 2.The first one will start operating next year, and the second one is a gigafactory with a planned production capacity of four gigawatt hours (GWh). The company supporting InoBat is none other than Gotion High-Tech, a supplier of the battery cell that will be installed in 80% of the Volkswagen Group's EVs in the future. Lilium 's main innovation is that it has adapted the conventional jet engine technology to electric aircraft through a single-stage rotor/stator system powered by an electric motor. This eVTOL jet is a power-lift aircraft that uses a DEVT (Ducted Electric Vectored Thrust) technology developed in-house by Lilium.At the same time, this will be an ultra-luxurious electric air taxi available for private customers. US folks interested in this German jet will initially have access to it through the Texas-based EMCJET, which is Lilium's exclusive dealer for private sales in America.
Back in the 1920s, Ferdinand Porsche wanted to prove that small, affordable cars could survive in the land of large sedans and big displacements, on the racetrack and road both. And so, he came up with the Austro-Daimler ADS-R, which is now adoringly called "Sascha."

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Photo: Porsche

Photo: Porsche

Photo: Porsche

Meet Sascha, the Targa Florio class champion. Today, Sascha is going home, enjoying all the attention out in the street. People reach for their smartphones to snap some shots of this historical automobile, they turn heads when they hear the engine growl with the sound some of them heard in their youth, some only heard on YouTube. The sound of a good ol car. The sound of a water-cooled 1.1-liter four-cylinder engine of the Austro-Daimler-R. Ferdinand Porsche designed the car that was going to make a living on the race track. That was more than one hundred years ago. He was then 45 and a Managing Director of automobile manufacturer Austro-Daimler in Wiener Neustadt, 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of Vienna, Austria.He was dreaming of building a small, lightweight, affordable car. He teamed up with Josef Graf Kolowrat-Krakowsky, who went by the name of Sasha. He was the co-owner of Austro-Daimler. He was also a movie producer. And a motor racing enthusiast. He had all the qualities to help him turn this project into reality.But the Austro-Daimler Executive Board was skeptical about it. To win them over, Ferdinand Porsche also came up with a race car . Kolowrat financed the project, so the car was named Sascha. It was a 598-kilogram (1,318-pound) vehicle, pulled by a 1.1-liter engine with 49 horsepower (50 PS). The car was to make its racing debut at the Targa Florio road race in Sicily.The four prototypes built were finished on the night before the race. The paint was applied on the aluminum bodies on the train journey to the starting grid. Otherwise, he was afraid they would get too much attention and might get stolen in Italy. For extra character, Kolowrat decided to apply car symbols on the bodies.One of the three vehicles that raced in the 1.1-liter class dropped out due to engine failure. It was the one driven by Kolowrat himself. The other two secured a 1-2 victory in the class.The fourth prototype, powered by a 1.5-liter engine, raced in an upper class and finished 19th. The Italian media then called the ADS-R "the revelation of the Targa Florio." Sascha kept racing and won 22 out of 52 racing events.The restoration of the ADS-R was a mammoth project, carried out with the help of Wiessach Development Center. They had to call on retired employees to help out with the car that is over one hundred years old.The ADS-R has been residing for decades in the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart. The one letting her stretch her legs now is Jan Heidak, vehicle service attendant. The youngest employee at the museum workshop is now driving the oldest driveable car in the collection.He worked on the classic car for months, alongside his boss, Kuno Werner. But they got it running again. And now, they are taking it to its birthplace, Wiener Neustadt, in Austria.Cruising along the streets of the old town, Sascha really feels at home. The engine purrs, the wheels spin like in the good ol days. And young Heidak is the only one who drives it more than one hundred years after it first saw the light of day. You can feel every vibration. Hear how the engines performing.Theres no power steering, so you need a lot of strength and sensitivity, he explains. He wears goggles not for getting a hipster look, but for protecting himself from the dust that the front wheels throw off the road.There is no seat belt and there are no lights. But there is an emergency seat for a mechanic, just in case. The driver has to focus. Driving this car is unlike anything he has ever experienced. The clutch is on the left, the brake is on the right, and the gas pedal is in the middle.It is one old, moody automobile. One afternoon, it simply refused to start. Whatever the team did, it just did not work. But Werner and Heidak must have had some aces up their sleeves.After a brief conversation and 15 minutes of work, the familiar sound of the race car fills the air again. We were expecting that, they say. They came prepared. This time, it was just a spark plug that needed to be replaced.There are more than 700 historical cars at the Porsche Museum. But the ADS-R is the oldest of them. And bringing it home to its birthplace is a story to tell grandchildren. After this stint, a trip down memory lane, the race car is going back to Stuttgart for decades of display. It remains to be seen how many.
I hope that it will not take long to reach an agreement, Aliyev said during a forum in Baku organized by his administration. But I want to point out that a peace treaty does not fully guarantee peace. We know of many peace treaties that were annulled and we know of countries that have lived without such treaties.

We know very well what is happening in Armenia and we know very well that Armenia has bad advisers in European capitals  That is why we need to have guarantees that there will be no more wars between the two countries and that Armenia fully accepts the new status quo, he added, according to Azerbaijani media.

Aliyev did not elaborate on the safeguards against Armenian revanchism that would satisfy him.

Armenian leaders have said, for their part, that they want clear international guarantees for Bakus compliance with the peace treaty. They have suggested that Aliyev is reluctant to sign the kind of agreement that would preclude Azerbaijani territorial claims to Armenia.

Aliyev twice cancelled EU-mediated talks with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian planned for October. Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov similarly withdrew from a November 20 meeting with his Armenian counterpart Ararat Mirzoyan that was due to take place in Washington. Baku accused the Western powers of pro-Armenian bias and proposed direct negotiations with Yerevan.

Mirzoyan deplored Bakus refusal to come to meetings organized by various international actors, including the U.S. and the EU when he addressed last week an annual conference of the top diplomats of OSCE member states. Bayramov countered that Yerevan itself is dragging out talks on the peace treaty.

Aliyev echoed that claim on Wednesday. He said that the Armenian side took more than two months to respond to most recent Azerbaijani proposals on contentious provisions of the treaty made in September. He said the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry is now examining the written replies sent by Yerevan on November 21.

After that, it would be appropriate for the foreign ministers to meet, he said.

The Azerbaijani leader said nothing about his next meeting with Pashinian.
We have sent invitations to the [two] countries to meet in Moscow and on the sidelines of multilateral negotiations in third countries, said Maria Zakharova, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman. Baku has always confirmed to us their readiness to hold such negotiations. Unfortunately, we cannot say the same about our Armenian partners. Perhaps they believe that their new advisers from Paris, Washington and Brussels will be able to offer something more interesting, better, more effective.

Zakharova said that Armenian-Azerbaijani summits organized by the European Union in October 2022 and May 2023 did not end well for the Armenian side.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian unconditionally recognized Azerbaijani sovereignty over Nagorno-Karabakh during those summits. Moscow claims that he thus legitimized Azerbaijans September 19-20 military offensive that forced Karabakhs entire population to flee to Armenia.

There may be a repeat of that, Zakharova told a news briefing. Now, posing as its best friends, they [the West] will give Armenia advice that will then lead to another surprise.

We really dont want the people of Armenia to be again deceived by their purported Western friends, added the Russian official.

The Armenian government has denounced Moscow for its failure to prevent, stop or even condemn the Azerbaijani military operation. Pashinian said in October that Russian peacekeepers were unable or unwilling to ensure the security of the Karabakh Armenians contrary to the terms of a Russian-brokered ceasefire that stopped the 2020 Armenian-Azerbaijani war.

EU Council President Charles Michel similarly charged that Russia has betrayed the Armenian population of Karabakh.

The Azerbaijani takeover of the region deepened a rift between Yerevan and Moscow. Pashinian accused the Russians of not honoring their security commitments to Armenia, while the Russian Foreign Ministry said that he is systematically destroying Russian-Armenian relations.
The countrys second largest city was run Samvel Balasanian, a local businessman, until October 2021. Although Balasanian decided not to seek another term in office, a newly created bloc bearing his name participated in the elections and garnered 36.6 percent of the vote, giving it 14 seats in the 33-member city council empowered to elect the mayor.

In a serious setback for Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian, Civil Contract finished second with 11 seats. The remaining eight seats were distributed among three opposition groups.

In line with the power-sharing deal, the new Gyumri council appointed the Balasanian Blocs Vardges Samsonian as mayor and two Civil Contract members as deputy mayors.

In a statement, Pashinians party said both vice-mayors will step down because it has decided to end its alliance with the Balasanian Bloc. It said vaguely that Civil Contract does not want to be part of what it called shady governance.

The statement did not clarify whether the party will try to oust Samsonian through a vote of no confidence or force a fresh election in Gyumri. Civil Contract representatives in Yerevan said the party will reveal its further steps during a news conference on December 11.

The Balasanian Bloc and Samsonian did not immediately react to the development. A spokeswoman for the Gyumri mayor told RFE/RLs Armenian Service that the bloc will make a statement in the coming days.

The three other groups represented in the city council also did not rush to officially comment on Civil Contracts move. One of them, the Zartonk bloc, controls four seats in the council. Its leader, Vartevan Hakobian, did not rule out the possibility of teaming up with Civil Contract or the Balasanian Bloc.

Narek Mirzoyan, a council member affiliated with former President Serzh Sarkisians Republican Party, accused Armenias political leadership of seeking to destabilize local communities run by elected opposition mayors. Mirzoyan pointed to Tuesdays controversial ouster of the head of a major community in neighboring Lori province comprising the town of Alaverdi and two dozen other towns and villages.

The mayor, Arkadi Tamazian, lost his narrow majority in the Alaverdi council after one of its members representing his Aprelu Yerkir party defected to Civil Contract in July. Pashinians party capitalized on the defection to replace Tamazian by its local leader amid serious procedural violations alleged by the Armenian opposition and some civil society members. Hundreds of police officers were deployed in Alaverdi on Tuesday to help the party install the new mayor.

Levon Barseghian, a veteran civic activist based in Gyumri, linked the end of the local power-sharing arrangement to the Alaverdi power grab, saying that Pashinian and his political team are no longer willing to tolerate opposition control of local governments across Armenia. He said they may now use promises, blackmail or political bribes to try to co-opt other members of the Gyumri council and gain a majority there.

Everyone must bear in mind yesterdays events in Alaverdi, Barseghian told RFE/RLs Armenian Service.
What is Armenias strategy regarding the future of Artsakh within the framework of your There is a future! [pre-election] programs? Seyran Ohanian, the parliamentary leader of the opposition Hayastan alliance, asked during the Armenian governments question-and-answer session in the National Assembly.

Pashinian replied that he wants to strengthen Armenias security and sovereignty. He again blamed former Armenian governments for the loss of Karabakh and claimed that unspecified forces used the Karabakh conflict to undermine Armenias independence.

You are again trying to distort or manipulate things by not answering the question, countered Ohanian. Whatever you say  it is during your rule that Artsakh was depopulated and it is during your rule that negotiations [with Azerbaijan] were stopped because of your contradictory statements and actions. And now you are doing nothing to take back our historical territory of Artsakh or at least negotiate for that purpose.

As prime minister of Armenia  my objective is the future of Armenia  The Constitution of the Republic of Armenia gives me responsibility for the future of the Republic of Armenia and I am focused on that issue, said Pashinian.

He described as ingratitude critics claims that Yerevan left Karabakh alone after the 2020 war with Azerbaijan.

Pashinians government stopped championing the Karabakhs right to self-determination in April 2022. A year later, Pashinian declared that it recognizes Karabakh as a part of Azerbaijan and will only strive to protect the rights and security of the Karabakh Armenians through the Armenian-Azerbaijani peace treaty and other international mechanisms.

Armenian opposition leaders say that this policy change paved the way for the recent Azerbaijani military offensive that restored Bakus full control over Karabakh and forced its practically entire population to flee to Armenia. Alen Simonian, the Armenian parliament speaker and a top Pashinian ally, said last week that a peace treaty currently discussed by Baku and Yerevan should not contain any special provisions on Karabakh and the return of its ethnic Armenian residents.
6 December 2023 08:30 (UTC+04:00)

Nigar Hasanova Read more

Figuratively speaking, due to its own fault, nowadays humankind lives on thin ice that is constantly threatened by climate disasters. The ice on which we stand is being cracked by the phenomenon known as climate change, which is caused by carbon dioxide. Glaciers and ice sheets melt and shrink as a result of these processes, which also alter the flora and fauna, cause weather instability, and disrupt seasonal patterns. According to scientists, global climate change is the root cause of these concerning phenomena around the world. Due to the development of agriculture and the increasing population, experts predict that these effects will be more actual in the near future. The whole world will suffer from climate change which stems from human activities. Of course, together with other countries Azerbaijan will face difficulties as well.

The country manager of the World Bank for Azerbaijan Stephanie Stallmeister, noted that Azerbaijan is one of the countries that can be directly affected by decarbonization on a global scale. She noted that Azerbaijan will face both water scarcity and extreme hot weather in the coming years. This will especially affect agriculture.

The report released by the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) found that the average annual temperature in the territory of Azerbaijan has increased by 0.4-1.3 degrees in the last 100 years. Azerbaijan will be among the nations with the most severe water shortages by 2040, and water supply will drop by 23% by that year due to a climate-related drought. As things stand, Azerbaijan is feeling the full force of climate change, with the most obvious effects being a scarcity of water due to the drought of mountain rivers and a decrease in Kuras water. As a drought Kura, the biggest river in Azerbaijan, has not been able to reach the Caspian Sea for two years. The current situation in Kura, which is known for its "madness" and produced the worst flood in Azerbaijan in 2010, exemplifies the negative effects of carbon dioxide gases.

Despite Azerbaijan's 0.11% contribution of global greenhouse gas emissions, the country started to actively participate in decarbonization initiatives to address the urgent problems listed above. Azerbaijan has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 30% from 1990 levels by 2030 and by 40% by 2050, as part of the Paris Climate Agreement.

In order to ensure the private sector's participation in this field and to enhance the share of installed electricity generation from renewable energy sources, Azerbaijan formed the Renewable Energy Agency as part of its sector transformation strategy.

The agency's primary plan calls for the construction of the hydroelectric plants Khudafarin and GizGalasi. The completion of the 80 MW GzGalasi and 200 MW Khudafarin hydropower plants is expected to be within the next two to three years.

In line with the adaptation's green energy space sub-goal, energy efficiency and the usage of electric vehicles will be prioritized concurrently. According to data made public by the State Customs Committee, there were 476 more imported cars with exclusively electric motors during the same period last year, or 6.2 times as many as there were during the previous year.

Besides local actions Azerbaijan also cooperated with other international companies and organizations.

In October 2023, Azerbaijan filed their updated NDC. The European Union (EU) provided funding for the NDC revision through the EU4Climate program. EU4Climate, an EU-funded program run by UNDP, helps six Eastern Partnership nations better their climate laws and policies while also assisting in implementing the Paris Agreement. EU4Climate is also offering assistance in Azerbaijan with the NDC Finance Strategy and Investment Plan preparation. The sectors selected for mitigation strategies in the amended NDC are waste management, forestry, land use change, energy, industrial processes and product consumption, and agriculture. The nation will continue to develop and carry out suitable adaptation measures for especially sensitive sectors like agriculture, as the updated NDC affirms.

With ACWA Power of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Masdar of the United Arab Emirates, pilot projects pertaining to the construction of 240 MW wind power plants and 230 MW solar power plants, respectively, have been initiated. With the companies in this direction, investment agreements, energy purchase and sale agreements, and transmission network connection agreements were signed. An estimated $500 million in foreign investment will be invested to build these 470 megawatt reactors. Beyond that, an Executive Agreement was signed with the BP firm regarding the assessment and execution of the 240 MW solar power plant construction project in the Zangilan/Jabrayil area.

The Asian Development Bank is supporting the implementation of the project Knowledge exchange and Technical Assistance Support for the Development of floating solar panels concurrently. As part of this project, a 100 kW pilot floating solar system will be installed on Lake Boyukshor, a first for Azerbaijan.

To prepare the Green Energy Zone Concept and Master Plan in the areas liberated from occupation, an agreement was made with TEPSCO, a Japanese business that specializes in this field. Work is now being carried in this direction.

Although Azerbaijan's efforts help both the local and global environment, the issue is far more global and requires international cooperation. For a long time now, a number of international events, including scientific and practical conferences, have been held related to this global problem, and various proposals have been put forward to eliminate the consequences and prevent projected expectations. If not taken action, based on given data climate disasters will become so extreme that people will not be able to adapt. Basic components of the Earth system will be fundamentally, irrevocably altered. Heat waves, famines, and infectious diseases could claim millions of additional lives by centurys end.

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6 December 2023 20:30 (UTC+04:00)

Asim Aliyev Read more

The main factor that prompted me to write this article is the special hatred and political attacks on Azerbaijani Turks and Muslims in Western and Armenian society. If we leaf through the pages of history, we will witness the massacres committed by Armenian-Dashnak bandits against Azerbaijani Turks, and the support demonstrated to them by their patrons in the West in these crimes. Historical tragedies that started against Azerbaijani Turks in the twentieth century continue today. The Azerbaijani pogroms in 1905-1907, 1914-1916, 1918-1920, 1948-1953 and 1988 are vivid examples of Armenian fascism and cruelty.

The invasion policy of the Armenian state and their desire to create a new state first emerged among Armenians who lived in Turkiye and then spread to the South Caucasus. Throughout history, Armenians found patrons in Europe and America, relying on the Christian factor, and through these patrons, they continued their dirty occupation policy.

The genocide conceived by the Armenians can be called a plan of the West (France) to divide Turkiye. Even the French clergyman Tuchin expressed his opinion at a conference organized in the "L'uvre d'Orient" society in February 1916 and said: "It all started with a plan by Armenian revolutionaries to kill Muslims, [and] it is impossible to believe the rumors [about Turks] spread by Armenians."

The Dashnaktsutyun Party, founded in Tbilisi in 1890, intended and intends to build political and economic dominance through uprisings and riots. The party's order to its members states: "Shoot the Turk under any circumstances and anywhere." The goal of the party is to create a great Armenia. After the Armenian intention to create a great Armenian state in Turkiye failed in the 19th century, the Armenians continued this policy against the Azerbaijani Turks in the South Caucasus.

At the first Garabagh War, which took place in 1991-1994, it was obvious that Armenians committed crimes against civilians with the help of their patrons. The Genocide committed by the Armenians against the inhabitants of Khojaly on the night of February 26, 1992, is a crime not only against the Azerbaijani Turks, but also against the entire humankind. During this Genocide, 2300 civilians were taken hostage and brutally killed. After this bloody genocide, in 1992, Russian writer Yuri Pompeyev published a documentary essay in St. Petersburg entitled "Garabagh in Blood" and fully explained and exposed the hypocrisy of Armenians in the essay.

According to international sources in the first Garabagh War, 16,000 Azerbaijani civilians were killed. A total of 800 people went missing in action. Every year February 26 is marked in Azerbaijan as the day of the Khojaly genocide.

Zori Balayan, a fictional hero of Armenia, wrote about his crimes in his books. In his book called Revival of Our Souls, he describes how he unskinned an Azerbaijani child (girl) and watched her die. It is contrary to the 1959 UN Declaration on the Rights of the Child. Calling an executioner like Zori Balayan (maniac) a hero of the nation is a manifestation of how Armenian mentality.

Thirty years after these atrocities, Azerbaijan regained its sovereignty through a 44-day war. Despite the end of the conflict, Armenia does not give up its evil intentions, and the Armenian lobby based in Europe and America propagates slander and aggressive policies against Azerbaijani Turks. This aggression is directed not only against the Turks but against all Muslims as well.

At present, the aggressive policy promoted by the Armenian lobby coincides with the interests of the West. We can see this in the speeches of the newly elected Dutch Prime Minister Geert Wilders. He calls Muslims scum on earth and promises to expel Muslims from the Netherlands from the moment he takes office. The newly elected Dutch PM from out of the blue was previously tried and then acquitted on charges of inciting hatred against Muslims. The reason for Wilders' accusation was to compare Islam to fascism and the Koran to Adolf Hitler's book Mein Kampf. The fact that Wilders was acquitted in court of the above charges is a reflection of how the judicial system works in Europe. No one can call this freedom of speech because these words insult separate religious and racial choices in a country governed under the slogan of democracy.

Undoubtedly, the policy pursued by Wilders can also be seen as the influence of the powerful Armenian lobby in Europe. It is also an indicator that the goals of the West and the Armenian lobby coincide. It should be noted that Europe's "multiculturalist" policy violates the rights of Azerbaijani Turks and Muslims, and this will create serious problems in European society in the future.

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6 December 2023 10:30 (UTC+04:00)

By Asim Aliyev

The 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) was hosted in Dubai, UAE. A delegation of the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) participated in the conference dedicated to the announcement of the "Oil and Gas Decarbonization Charter" (OGDC), Azernews reports.

SOCAR, which takes into account global climate change issues and prioritizes environmental protection, has once again demonstrated its sensitivity to environmental issues in its oil and gas activities by announcing its accession to the OGDC charter.

It should be noted that the OGDC charter includes goals such as achieving net zero operations by 2050, approaching the goal of zero methane emissions in the Upstream segment by 2030, and reducing flaring in the conventional production process to zero by 2030.

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6 December 2023 13:43 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

Azerbaijan International Mining Company (AIMC) Limited will introduce new mining technologies in Gedebey, and the presentation ceremony will be held on 11 December, Azernews reports.

AIMC said that the presentation ceremony will showcase recently acquired underground mining equipment for the development and future operation of the newly opened Gilar and Zafar underground mines. These technologies will be applied for the first time in the mining industry of Azerbaijan.

Executives, AIMC staff, representatives of the Ecology and Natural Resources Ministry, local executive authorities, and media representatives are expected to attend the event. The equipment that will be presented meets the most modern requirements. It is designed to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of the work performed, as well as to increase future production capacity.

It should be recalled that to create a gold mining industry in Azerbaijan, AIMC established a partnership with the Azerbaijani Ecology and Natural Resources Ministry and American company RV Investment Group Services by the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan On Exploration and Development of Several Gold Deposits of the Republic of Azerbaijan, dated 5 February 1996.

Following the Production Sharing Agreement signed between LLC on 20 August 1997 and the amendment dated 20 June. It has the right to explore and develop the Gizilbulag, Demirli, and Veynali gold, copper and polymetallic deposits, which are exempt from occupation, located in the Zangazur economic zone until 2022.

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6 December 2023 12:50 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum has opened an exhibition "Western Azerbaijani carpets: The Memory of Our Historical Pattern".

Timed to the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, the event is co-organized by the museum in partnership with the Culture Ministry and the Western Azerbaijan Community, Azernews reports.

The exhibition displays 21 carpets and carpet products with well-known compositions woven by carpet masters from the regions and villages of Western Azerbaijani countries such as Goycha, Zangezur, Aghbaba, Pambak and Loru.

Among the exhibits are Gasimushaghi, Lampa, Mughan, Gubadli and Ganja carpets, brought by compatriots deported from their native land.

They treat these carpets like a relic. Western Azerbaijani women applied classical traditions, rich patterns and unique color scheme in these carpet samples woven based on the famous compositions.

At the same time, they managed to skilfully add their feelings, eye-catching color scheme and informative details that make these carpets special.

The flat-woven shadda and the carpet product khurjun (a valise consisting of two parts), which is widely used in households, amazes the visitors.

A catalogue and a video on the same theme were also presented as part of the event.

The exhibition will be on until January 5, 2024.

Founded in 1967, the National Carpet Museum holds more than 14,000 exhibits of the finest Azerbaijani carpets.

Initiated by eminent carpet artist Latif Karimov, the museum is beautiful inside and out.

The museum's new building is designed in the form of a rolled carpet. Now, the museum hosts multiple events, including international symposiums, conferences, and various exhibitions.

In 2019, the museum received national status for its significant contribution to popularizing and promoting Azerbaijani carpet weaving art.

In 2020, the Carpet Museum enriched its collection with a beautiful pile of carpets purchased by the Culture Ministry at the Sartirana Textile Show in Italy.

The 19th-century Guba carpet "Ugakh" was donated to the Carpet Museum, while the Garabagh carpet "Chelebi" enriched the collection of the museum's Shusha branch.

Moreover, the Carpet Museum won the Travellers' Choice Awards for the fourth time in a row last year.

The award proves once again that the professional activity of the National Carpet Museum is highly appreciated by visitors from all over the world.

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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr

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Icherisheher State Historical and Architectural Reserve has expanded cooperation with Uzbekistan's Ichan-Kala Historical Architectural State Museum.

Icherisheher Reserve's Board Chairman Shahin Seidzade signed Protocol of Mutual Understanding and Cooperation with representative of the Khorezm region Maksud Bekchanov, Azernews reports.

The document aims to boost cooperation between the two structures in the field of preserving cultural heritage, organizing joint events in the field of tourism and culture in order to promote the expansion of ties between two countries.

Then the guests got acquainted with the activities of the Icherisheher Center for Traditional Art.

The Ichan-Kala Historical Architectural State Museum was founded in 1920. Since 1969 the Ichan-Kala city is a museum and reserve.

Some 14 independent exhibits in the museum-reserve reveal the period of Khorezm and Khiva's history, practical art, craft, culture and literary life.

With its defensive fortresses, Icherisheher is a symbol of patriotism and a great source of national pride and dignity.

All the buildings within the fortress walls of the Old City were of a defensive nature in terms of their tactical and strategic functions.

Large squares and wide streets gradually narrowed and shrank into a geometric design. They fascinate Baku residents and the city's guests.

Numerous unique monuments, including the Shirvanshahs Palace complex, mosques and minarets, the ruins of caravanserais and bathhouses make this place one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

The Old City became the first location in Azerbaijan to be classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

In 2000, the Old City of Baku, including the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and Maiden Tower, became the first location in Azerbaijan to be classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr

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6 December 2023 16:00 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

More samples of Azerbaijani culture have been included in the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity.

The decision was made during the 18th session of the Committee for Safeguarding of ICH in Botswana, Azernews reports.

Craftsmanship and performing art of balaban/mey

The multinational cultural element of "Craftsmanship and performing art of balaban/mey, jointly prepared by Azerbaijan and Turkiye, has been inscribed to the UNESCO List.

"Balaban (in Azerbaijan) or Mey (in Turkiye) is a centuries-old woodwind instrument made up of three parts: a body, a wide and flat double reed and a clip. The instrument is traditionally made of plum or apricot wood and coated with linseed or olive oil. Once dry, crafters drill several holes into the front of the body and one hole into the back. The sizes, number of holes and materials used vary according to the region. The knowledge, skills and techniques of crafting and playing Balaban are typically passed on informally within families through observation and hands-on experience, as well as through apprenticeships," said on UNESCO website.

Craftsmanship of mother of pearl inlay

The multinational cultural element of "Craftsmanship of mother of pearl inlay" jointly prepared by Azerbaijan and Turkiye, became another element included in UNESCO.

"Mother of pearl inlay is the practice of inserting mother of pearl pieces into wooden objects such as Koran cases, desks, chests, chairs, mirrors, jewel cases and musical instruments. Craftspeople begin by cutting the inner shells of molluscs into different shapes. They draw motifs on a piece of wood, carve out the outlines and shape the mother of pearl pieces, which are then inlaid to the wood. Finally, the surface is polished with sandpaper, burnt for colouring and varnished with melted resin. Practitioners use thick woods such as walnut, ebony and mahogany, preferring dark colours to contrast with the white of the mother of pearl. Geometrical, floral and calligraphic motifs are often used for embellishment. For craftspeople and their families, the element represents a part of daily life and is a source of identity and pride," UNESCO reports.

Iftar/Eftari/Iftar/Iftor and its socio-cultural traditions

Multinational cultural element of "Iftar/Eftari/Iftar/Iftor and its socio-cultural traditions" jointly prepared by Azerbaijan, Iran, Turkiy and Uzbekistan was also included in the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity.

It was brought to attention that Iftar (also called Eftari, Iftar or Iftor in practicing countries) is observed by Muslims at sunset in the month of Ramadan (the ninth month in the lunar calendar), upon completion of all religious and ceremonial rites. Observed by people of all ages, genders and backgrounds, it marks the daily termination of the hardships of fasting from dawn to sunset.

"The evening prayer is followed by activities such as praying ceremonies, music, storytelling, games, preparing and serving traditional and local meals and marriage arrangements. For communities, it often takes the form of gatherings or meals, strengthening family and community ties and promoting charity, solidarity and social exchange. The ceremonies and rituals related to Iftar are also practised by people who do not necessarily fast during the month of Ramadan," the organization reports.

As a UNESCO member, Azerbaijan has been actively engaged in promoting cultural diversity and heritage preservation.

The country has been constantly participating in UNESCO programs since 1992.

Through its efforts, Azerbaijan plays a significant role in UNESCO's mission to build peace, foster sustainable development, and foster intercultural dialogue through education, the sciences, culture, communication, and information.

In 2003, the parties signed a framework agreement on cooperation in the areas of culture, science, education, and communication, which allowed Azerbaijan to become one of the donors of UNESCO.

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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr

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6 December 2023 15:47 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

Baku hosts the international conference called Prevention of Domestic Violence: Opportunities and Prospects, Azernews reports.

The representatives of the Government, NGOs, Media Outlets, and foreign guests participated in the conference.

The Azerbaijani Science and Education Minister Emin Amrullayev made a speech in the conference and pointed out that the conflict between parents directly affects children in the family and creates traumas for them. Therefore, the violence that occurs in the family also manifests itself in society. He also touched on the issue of safety at schools and noted that the most successful project of the Ministry of Education and Science in the field of school safety is "School Friend":

"The scope of this project is expanding. Because we are not immune to unpleasant situations in schools".

Later, Minister of Labour and Social Protection of Population Sahil Babayev gave a speech and said that that raising family values can be a great help in preventing violence

According to him, social support is provided to victims of violence in Sumgait, Baku, and Jalalabad.

The Minister said that raising family values in the country can be a great help in preventing violence.

Then foreign guests made speeches. Florence Bauer, Regional Director of the United Nations Population Fund for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, said that to prevent gender-based violence, different sectors of society must work together.

The director noted that, unfortunately, violence against women and children occurs all over the world.

"Domestic violence is an event that affects the whole society. Therefore, international efforts are needed. Gender inequality is a violation of human rights and also hinders sustainable development. Azerbaijan has implemented successful reforms in this direction," Florence Bauer added.

F. Bauer said society should show intolerance to it.

"Together we can build a society where everyone can participate in preventing violence. We are cooperating with more than 140 countries to prevent violence and will expand our efforts," she said.

It should be noted that the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children's Problems is organizing an international conference "Prevention of Domestic Violence: Opportunities and Prospects".

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6 December 2023 11:42 (UTC+04:00)

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Finland Sauli Niinisto.

The letter reads as follows:

Dear Mr. President,

I sincerely congratulate you and your people on my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the National Holiday of the Republic of Finland  the Independence Day.

On this festive day, I wish you robust health, success in your endeavors, and your people everlasting peace and prosperity.

Sincerely,

Ilham Aliyev

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, 4 December 2023

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Representatives of foreign consular corps, business sector in HK visit HK Palace Museum to explore Chinese culture

Xinhua) 10:44, December 06, 2023

HONG KONG, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- About 90 representatives of foreign consular corps and the business sector in Hong Kong visited the Hong Kong Palace Museum on Tuesday to explore the "cultural code" of China at the invitation of the Commissioner's Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

Speaking at the event, Chan Kwok-ki, chief secretary for administration of the HKSAR government, said that, as mentioned in this year's policy address, the HKSAR government will establish the Chinese Culture Promotion Office and organize for the first time the Chinese Culture Festival next year.

He said the HKSAR government will boost financial and manpower resources to expand cultural exchanges and collaborations between Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland, as well as the rest of the world.

Hong Kong is a good example of cultural diversity and inclusiveness, a bridge for cultural exchanges between the Chinese mainland and the world, and an important platform for the Global Civilization Initiative to take root and bear fruit, said Li Yongsheng, acting commissioner for the Chinese foreign ministry office in the HKSAR.

For global civilizations to flourish together, the Commissioner's office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR will continue to leverage diplomatic channels to help Hong Kong strengthen cultural exchanges with other areas in the world, and support Hong Kong in developing into a center for international cultural exchanges, he said.

During the event, the representatives visited the special exhibition "Gazing at Sanxingdui" and the thematic exhibitions "Entering the Forbidden City" and "From Dawn to Dusk: Life in the Forbidden City."

After seeing the exhibition, Consul General of Colombia in Hong Kong Luis Fernando Orozco Barrera asked people around him how to say "Sanxingdui" in Chinese.

He said this is his fourth visit to the Hong Kong Palace Museum, and every time he has new discoveries. Through visiting various thematic exhibitions, he can see the inheritance and the development of Chinese culture in different fields, he said.

"Whether the building of the Hong Kong Palace Museum or the rich exhibits helps me have a deeper understanding of the Chinese culture, which is also the significance of exchanges between different cultures," said Chair of the European Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, Inaki Amate.

Amate, also president of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, said he looks forward to more cultural exchanges and cooperation between Spain and China.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
6 December 2023 13:16 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijan Defense Minister, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov met with the 2nd Chief of the General Staff of the Turkish Armed Forces, Army General Irfan Ozsert, who is on an official visit to Azerbaijan to participate in the 15th Meeting of the Azerbaijani-Turkish High-Level Military Dialogue, Azernews reports, citing the Defense Ministry.

Before the meeting Turkish delegation visited the graves of the National Leader of Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev and prominent ophthalmologist, academician Zarifa Aliyeva in the Alley of Honor, as well as the Alley of Shehids (Martyrs) and Turkish Martyrs' Cemetery. The guests laid wreath and flowers and honored their blessed memory.

Then Azerbaijan Defense Ministry hosted the meeting.

Colonel General Z. Hasanov welcomed the guests and expressed his satisfaction with seeing them in Azerbaijan. The Minister emphasized the high level of military cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkiye, and stressed the importance of continuing the work done in this field.

Army General I. Ozsert expressed his satisfaction with the visit to Azerbaijan, and thanked Colonel General Z. Hasanov for the hospitality and warm reception, as well as for the organization of the next meeting of the servicemen of both fraternal countries in Baku.

Confidence was expressed that cooperation based on mutual trust, confidence and support between the two countries will advance hereinafter. It was noted that the strategic alliance between Azerbaijan and Turkiye is based on friendship and fraternal relations.

The meeting discussed prospects of development of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkiye in military, military-technical, military-educational and other fields, as well as regional security and a number of issues of mutual interest.

Then, the First Deputy Minister of Defense  Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, Colonel General Karim Valiyev held a meeting with the Turkish delegation.

At the meeting held at the General Staff, it was noted that the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Turkiye is developing. The importance of increasing the intensity of joint exercises held to further improve the knowledge and skills of the military personnel of both countries was emphasized.

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6 December 2023 14:28 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

A large delegation headed by the co-chairman of the commission, Minister of Digital Development and Transport Rashad Nabiyev is in Iraq to participate in the 3rd session of the Joint Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical and Cultural Cooperation between Azerbaijan and Iraq, Azernews reports.

The meeting of the joint commission will discuss issues of increasing trade turnover between the two countries, further expansion of cooperation in the economy, mutual investments, education, culture, and tourism, as well as joint projects.

Within the framework of the meeting, an Iraqi-Azerbaijani business forum will be held on 7 December. The forum will consider the issues of creating opportunities for businessmen of the two countries, organizing visits, and mutual investment.

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6 December 2023 15:27 (UTC+04:00)

By Asim Aliyev

The Western Azerbaijan Community has made a statement that the US International Commission on Religious Freedom included prejudice and Azerbaijanophobia in part of the US report on Azerbaijan's religious freedom, Azernews reports.

The Western Azerbaijani Community demands that the US should abandon its biased policy towards Azerbaijan and not be an obstacle to peace in the region.

"In a report published by the UN mission after its visit to the Garabagh economic region of Azerbaijan in October 2023, despite confirming that there is no damage to cultural and religious monuments there, the Commission notes that unknown "human rights organizations" have some concerns.

It should be noted that this report is written in the same manner as the anti-Azerbaijani report published by the State Department in May this year. The only difference between the Commission's report and the State Department's report is that it does not refer more openly to radical nationalist Armenian authors L.Khachaturian, H.Ghulyan, S.Bokcheryan to substantiate their claims against Azerbaijan," the statement emphasized.

Community stated that the above-mentioned American institute gives wide scope to unfounded allegations about Armenian religious monuments in Azerbaijan.

American institute does not recognize the facts that about 300 mosques that were under state registration in Armenia and all other religious buildings belonging to Azerbaijanis were destroyed. However, for some reasons, the institute completely ignores the facts of the destruction of the cultural heritage of Azerbaijanis expelled from Armenia on the grounds of national and religious hatred.

"Western Azerbaijanis Community demands that the U.S. abandon its biased policy towards Azerbaijan and not be an impediment to peace in the region. If the U.S. truly cares about human rights and religious heritage, it should support the right of Azerbaijanis expelled from Armenia and help rebuild the destroyed Azerbaijani religious and cultural heritage in Armenia," the Community added.

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6 December 2023 15:12 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

On December 6, the head of the Administration of the President of the Azerbaijani Republic, the head of the Coordinating Staff regarding the centralized solution of issues in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan, Samir Nuriyev, met with the Minister of State for Export Affairs of Great Britain, Lord Malcolm Offord, who is visiting Azerbaijan, Azernews reports.

Satisfaction was expressed at the meeting with the strong friendly relations established between Azerbaijan and Great Britain and the level of multifaceted cooperation. It was emphasized that bilateral cooperation in oil and gas, trade, transition to green energy, transport, education and other fields has been successfully developed.

Samir Nuriyev highly appreciated the continuous and principled support of Great Britain to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan during the military occupation of Armenia. Also, the balanced position of the United Kingdom within international organizations was positively assessed.

Emphasizing that high-level mutual visits play an important role in the development of bilateral cooperation, the importance of continuing such visits in the future was also noted.

Samir Nuriyev pointed out that in accordance with the "I State Program on the Great Return to the Territories Liberated from Occupation of the Republic of Azerbaijan", the large-scale reconstruction and restoration projects implemented in the liberated territories, as well as the construction of new settlements, are successfully continuing.

At the meeting, satisfaction was expressed with the participation of British companies in reconstruction and restoration projects in Azerbaijan liberated from occupation, and the importance of continuing this cooperation was noted. The United Kingdom's contributions to humanitarian demining projects in Azerbaijan were especially appreciated.

Noting that the 6th meeting of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission on economic cooperation between the Azerbaijani and Great Britain will be held in Baku on December 7, Samir Nuriyev expressed confidence that the next meeting of the commission as an important mechanism will contribute to the further development of cooperation between the two countries.

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6 December 2023 16:15 (UTC+04:00)

By Asim Aliyev

A grant agreement was signed between Japanese Ambassador to Azerbaijan Wada Junichi and Yardimli District Central Hospital, which is the beneficiary organization of the project "Construction of Family Health Center in Yardimli district", Azernews reports, citing the Japanese Embassy in Azerbaijan.

The ceremony was attended by Rasim Akbarov, Head of the Central Hospital of Yardimli district, and representatives of TABIB.

Under this project, it is planned to construct a family medical center in Chanakhbulag village of Yardymli district (area: 242 m2, 2 family doctor's offices, 1 procedure room, 1 pregnancy and reproductive health control room, 1 multifunctional telemedicine room, 1 laboratory, 1 pediatric room, 1 vaccination and waiting room for children, 1 dental room, 1 kitchen and living room, 1 checkpoint, 1 utility room, 2 sanitary facilities).

As a result of the project, patients who previously had to travel from remote areas to central district hospitals (except for moderate and severe patients) will be able to receive necessary medical care in the newly constructed medical center. Thus, it is expected to further improve access to medical services for the residents of 15 villages in the target region. The Government of Japan has allocated a grant of US$90 K (about AZN 152 K) for the construction of this project.

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6 December 2023 16:30 (UTC+04:00)

By Asim Aliyev

Azerbaijani Defense Minister, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov received the Chief of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army Navy, Rear Admiral Shahram Irani, who is on a visit to Azerbaijan, Azernews reports, citing Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry.

At the meeting hosted by the Defense Ministry, Colonel General Z. Hasanov welcomed the Iranian guests and expressed his satisfaction with seeing them in Azerbaijan. The Minister congratulated the guest on the occasion of the Irans Navy Day. The Minister of Defense noted that Azerbaijan-Iran relations are based on ancient historical roots and emphasized the importance of mutual visits in terms of further development of military cooperation.

Rear Admiral Sh. Irani expressed his gratitude for the hospitality, congratulated the Minister of Defense on the restoration of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, as well as on the achievements of the Azerbaijan Army. He conveyed the greetings of the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Lieutenant General Mohammad Hossein Bagheri. The Navy Chief expressed confidence that such meetings would make positive contributions to bilateral military cooperation.

During the meeting, detailed views were exchanged on the development prospects of military cooperation between the two countries, regional security and a number of other topics.

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6 December 2023 17:15 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

Russia welcomes the meeting of representatives of Azerbaijan and Armenia on the joint border, Azernews reports, citing Maria Zakharova, the head of Russian Foreign Ministry press service.

"Azerbaijan has confirmed its consent to the meeting in Moscow, while Armenia has not agreed to it.As for the peace agreement, Russia has sent proposals to Armenia and Azerbaijan to meet within the framework of multilateral events held in Moscow and on the territory of third countries," says Maria Zakharova

According to Zakharova, Azerbaijan responded favorably to Russia's proposal:

"Baku has confirmed to us that it is always ready for negotiations. Unfortunately, we cannot say the same about our Armenian partners. Perhaps they think that new 'consultants' from Washington, Brussels, and Paris will be able to make more interesting, better, more effective proposals. I don't know, I think we should always look at the previous experience, the experience of our neighbors. It's always useful. We all saw what the EU observers in Prague and Brussels led to. Maybe the Armenian people don't know everything. Because they do not inform the Armenian people about everything."

Zakharova warned the Armenian people that the advice of her closest "friends" (Western countries - ed.) to Armenia would lead to another surprise.

Zakharova also touched on the supplies of Western military equipment to Armenia

"We would never want Armenia to be deceived by its Western "friends," she added.

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6 December 2023 17:45 (UTC+04:00)

By Asim Aliyev

Speaker of Parliament Sahiba Garbarova met with the delegation led by Deputy Chairman of the Justice and Development Party of the Turkiye on Foreign Relations, Istanbul MP Zafer Sirakaya on December 6, Azernews reports.

During the meeting, It was noted that relations between Azerbaijan and Turkiye are successfully developing, guided by National Leader Heydar Aliyev's motto "One nation, two states",

It was stressed at the meeting that these relations determine the further expansion of cooperation between the parliaments. It was also noted that the item on the development of inter-parliamentary relations in the Shusha Declaration "On Allied relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Turkiye", which defines the goals of further development of Azerbaijani-Turkish relations and plays the role of a "road map". This map will contribute to the further development of cooperation in the legislative sphere of the two fraternal countries

Speaker Sahiba Gafarova drew attention to the multifaceted cooperation between the Parliament of Azerbaijan and the Grand National Assembly of Turkiye. The deputies successfully work in bilateral, trilateral and multilateral formats.

During the discussion, it was noted that the development of cooperation between state institutions and agencies of the two countries has contributed to further strengthening of the relations. The sides noted that the cooperation between the ruling parties of Azerbaijan and Turkiye - the New Azerbaijan Party, and the Justice and Development Party - are of great importance. It was emphasized that the strengthening of relations between the parties makes an important contribution to the development of inter-country relations.

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6 December 2023 18:00 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

The Foreign Media Assembly of the International Council of Journalists (GJC), which has representatives in 64 countries of the world, issued a statement of protest against the persecution of Azerbaijani journalist Aygun Hasanova in France, Azernews reports.

Elshad Eyvazli, chairman of the organization's Foreign Media Assembly, said they strongly condemn such behavior towards the journalist.

"We condemn all kinds of harassment and violence against journalists in all cases. We want a statement from the French government regarding the repression against Aygun Hasanova, an employee of the official Azerbaijani media organization AZERTAJ, who was sent to New Caledonia.

In a country like France, it is contrary to international rights and freedoms to obstruct the professional activities of a journalist. If such a thing happens in one of the political centers of the world, it will disappoint journalists around the world.

"We consider and condemn the detention of a journalist at the police station and his deportation from the country as a restriction of the journalist's right of access to information," the statement emphasized.

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6 December 2023 18:30 (UTC+04:00)

On December 6, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev held a telephone conversation with Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov, Azernews reports.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev conveyed his sincere congratulations and good wishes to Sadyr Japarov on his birthday, wishing him good health and success in his work as a supreme state.

The President of Kyrgyzstan expressed his gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev for his attention and congratulations.

The Head of State recalled with pleasure the meetings he had with the President of Kyrgyzstan both in Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan and noted that the discussions during the meetings gave an important impetus to the expansion of friendly and brotherly relations based on mutual trust and support, and the development of strategic partnership.

During the telephone conversation, it was emphasized that Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan have successfully cooperated within the framework of SPECA, the Organization of Turkic States and other international organizations.

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6 December 2023 21:38 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijans Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov has met with US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs James O'Brien, Azernews reports.

The meeting revolved around the bilateral and multilateral cooperation agenda between the two countries, the current situation in the region, as well as the prospects of the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

The sides highlighted the importance of historic cooperation between Azerbaijan and the United States in a number of areas, stressing the significance of bolstering bilateral relations based on mutual interests.

Minister Jeyhun Bayramov emphasized that Azerbaijan, as the initiator of the main elements of the peace process with Armenia, is an interested party in establishing peace and stability in the region.

FM Bayramov also underscored the importance of intensification of the border delimitation negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia on a bilateral basis, which is one of the other directions of normalization.

The two also exchanged views on other bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest.

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6 December 2023 08:00 (UTC+04:00)

China Tuesday called on the US to "take a responsible attitude, and attach importance" to Japanese people's concerns following the crash of an aircraft, Azernews reports, citing Anadolu Agency.

CV-22 Osprey aircraft underwent several serious accidents that have led to casualties and/or people going missing. The US should ... conduct a detailed investigation and give a reasonable explanation," Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters in Beijing, the daily Global Times reported.

The search continued for two missing crew members after a US military Osprey aircraft with eight people on board crashed near the southwest coast of Japan last week.

Japan's Self-Defense Forces searched the southern coastline of Yakushima Island in Kagoshima province for debris.

Six bodies have been found besides some wreckage of the crashed aircraft.

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6 December 2023 19:35 (UTC+04:00)

by Alimat Aliyeva

U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken held a conversation with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Azernews reports, citing foreign media outlets.

According to the information, the sides discussed diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation in the Middle East.

The U.S. Secretary of State spoke about his recent trip to the Middle East and the United States' diplomatic efforts in the region. The Secretary of State confirmed the urgent need for all parties to work to prevent the spread of the conflict.

Blinken stressed that the recent Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea pose a threat to maritime security and international law, which all countries must comply with.

On Monday, the Central Command of the US Armed Forces reported that commercial vessels in the Red Sea were attacked four times a day, and an American destroyer responded to their alarm messages and shot down three drones.

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6 December 2023 21:45 (UTC+04:00)

The US Congress should take steps on selling F-16s and upgrade kits simultaneously with Turkiye, so all sides can take the remaining steps needed at the same time, Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Wednesday on Sweden's NATO accession bid, Azernews reports, citing Anadolu Agency.

"If the U.S. has a Congress, we also have our parliament. Theres nothing to say (on Swedens NATO bid) until a final decision comes from our parliament, Erdogan told journalists on his return flight from a two-day visit to Qatar. All current NATO members must ratify any countries joining the alliance.

Saying that he fulfilled his job by sending Swedens NATO protocol to the Turkish parliament in October, Erdogan added that he expects something from his counterparts.

"Simultaneously, pass this (F-16 sale) through your Congress on this issue, and let's take these steps together at the same time."

Erdogan signed Sweden's NATO accession protocol and submitted it to parliament on Oct. 23. On Nov. 16, parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee postponed consideration of the protocol.

To join the alliance, which Sweden sought after Russia attacked nearby Ukraine, Stockholm has to have the approval of all current NATO members, including Turkiye, a NATO member for over 70 years, and the owner of its second-largest army, after the US.

Turkiye has been pushing Swedish authorities to take concrete steps to alleviate Ankara's security concerns, especially regarding support for the PKK terrorist organization, a group whose decades-long attacks on Turkiye have taken some 40,000 lives.

Turkiye is seeking to purchase from the US the latest model F-16 Block 70 aircraft, as well as 79 modernization kits to upgrade its remaining F-16s to Block 70 level.

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Home Alone fans will be happy to know that Passion Art in Budaiya is hosting a 'Home Alone' film screening on Friday, Dec. 8.

The movie night will begin at 7:00 p.m. and run until 8:45 p.m.

Interested people will only have to pay BD 2.5 for entry to the event, which will also include snacks.

For registration, people should directly message @passionart.bh on Instagram.

Home Alone

The first film in the Home Alone franchise is a hilarious Christmas comedy about a boy who defends his home in Chicago from a pair of robbers after he is left home alone by his family during the Christmas holidays.

The film features Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern, and Catherine O'Hara.

'Home Alone' received nominations for the Golden Globes and the Oscars.

The film was the second-highest-grossing film of 1990.

Macaulay Culkin's Hollywood Walk of Fame Ceremony

Macaulay Culkin recently received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Culkin's on-screen mother Catherine O'Hara was at the event and congratulated him for receiving the honor.

Read More: Bahrain Proposes New Social Welfare Plan for Housewives Over 40

O'Hara said, It is Macaulays perfect performance as Kevin McAllister that gave us that little everyboy on an extraordinary adventure.

If you would like to reminisce childhood memories of the holiday season, head to the 'Home Alone' movie night in Budaiya!

Image source: IMDb
North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Anita Earls is suing the state's Judicial Standards Commission to make them end investigations into some of her public statements

The lawsuit is based purely on a freedom of speech claim, with no claim of racial or sexual discrimination

It is time to reform the limits on judicial speech, both for the right of judges to speak and citizens to hear them

Judges in North Carolina are prohibited by tradition and regulations from speaking on issues that are likely to come before the court or making statements disparaging the judicial system.That may be about to change.A Justice Sues to Strike Down Judicial StandardsNorth Carolina Supreme Court Justice Anita Earls has filed a lawsuit in federal court, claiming that the state's Judicial Standards Commission (JSC) is restricting her First Amendment right to free speech (paragraph 90):The commission investigated Earls earlier this year on public statements she made that were allegedly on(paragraph 10). The commission panel in charge of investigating such matters voted to dismiss the complaint in May. During that process, commission counsel reminded Earls of the need to follow Canon 2(A) of the North Carolina Code of Judicial Conduct, which states (in part):The JSC reopened the investigation into Earls after an interview with her was published in the June 2023 issue of Law360 on the status of women and racial minorities in the court system. A JSC notice to Earls stated that she appeared to(paragraph 40). If true, it could be construed as a violation of Canon 2(A).The case is before US District Judge William Osteen of the Middle District of North Carolina. Earls is seeking to have Osteen declare that JSC investigations into her public statements and interviews are unconstitutional, enjoin any further such investigations into herand force the JSC to cover her attorney's fees.What This Case Is - and Is Not - AboutSeeing headlines such asandyou could be forgiven for believing that Earls' lawsuit is at least partially about claims of racial or sexual discrimination against her.It is about neither.Earls made no claim of racial or sexual discrimination in the lawsuit. She noted her sex and race only once in the complaint, stating that she was theThe complaint also quoted Law360's description of her asBoth statements were used to establish context for the Law360 interview, not to support a claim of racial or sexual discrimination against the JSC.Instead, the lawsuit is based purely on a free speech claim. Earls claimed that the investigationsby causing her to turn down speaking and writing invitations for fear that her statements would lead to further investigations.Earls is taking an approach similar to Pres. Donald Trump with regard to free speech related to the courts, seeking to maximize her First Amendment rights against rules designed to safeguard the judicial process. Just as U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan said Trump's claim to free speechof the court, there are things that judges cannot say without jeopardizing due process or otherwise damaging the integrity of the court.For example, the state Supreme Court reprimanded Durham Judge James T. Hill in part forafter telling parents in a child custody case that theyThe JSC similarly reprimanded District Court Judge Carlton Terry, Jr. for ex parte (with only one side in a case) communications in 2009.I expect the JSC will fully resist Earls' claim that her speech should not be restricted by judicial rules designed to promote public confidence in the judiciary.Judges Should Have Greater Political Speech Rights, for Their and the Public's SakePublic opinion seems to be squarely on Earls' side in this conflict.While those on the left predictably support her (as seen above), she is also getting support from the right for her lawsuit. Those supporters include the former spokesman for Republican NC Senate leader Phil Berger, the executive director for American Majority, and my colleague Mitch Kokai at the John Locke Foundation.Her case is not a complete slam dunk, however. Judges at all levels of government face restrictions on what they can do or say. For example, Canon 5 of the Code of Conduct for United States Judges prohibits federal judges from a host of activities that could be construed as political. That includes makingTo remove any wiggle room, the canon further states that judgesThose restrictions, both in federal and North Carolina judicial canon, are in place to remove undue political influence on the bench or the appearance of such influence. They are crucial for justice and public confidence in the judicial system.Another consideration, however, has surprisingly not been brought up, especially since Earls is an elected justice: the right of the people of North Carolina to hear her opinions on matters of public interest.Although not explicitly stated in the First Amendment, the right to hear is implied by, and inexorably linked to, the right to speak. It is a linkage well-established in American jurisprudence. Justice Hugo Black wrote in Martin v. City of Struthers (1943),By 1969, Justice Thurgood Marshall stated in Stanley v. Georgia,Members of the public should be able to hear Justice Earls' views on the workings of the court, the status of racial minorities and women in the judicial system, or any other pertinent topic, aside from things such as current cases or sensitive information. Doing so will help us become better informed about our judiciary. That principle applies, obviously, to other justices and judges as well.Just as importantly, allowing Earls to speak on matters of public concern gives members of the public information about her. It better enables them to understand her views and, when she is up for reelection in 2026, whether they want her to continue serving on the North Carolina Supreme Court.(That need for more public information about judicial candidates is also why partisan judicial elections are good and why judges should not have to recuse themselves from cases because of their general statements on issues of public concern.)The JSC adjusted the judicial speech code after the US Supreme Court struck down restrictions on judicial candidates in Republican Party of Minnesota v. White (2002). It should now further lift restrictions on what judges can say to the public, either voluntarily or under court order. If all else fails, a legislative solution may be needed.One way or another, the people of North Carolina have a right to hear what Justice Earls has to say.
Understanding that there are two firm positions concerning the Open Border Crises, but many realties regarding its current, and, or projected real impacts to the functioning, sustainability of this Constitutional Republic: What position below best represents what you know to be true regarding this impactful policy?

0% The United States' must continue the Executive initiative of Open Borders until a Democratic Congress can codify full Demographic Inclusion by keeping the Biden /Harris Open Borders policy in place.34.62% Our United States' borders are sovereign just as are our self-governed citizens, where borders must be maintained, monitored and defended, which is the position of core Republicans.3.85% I am in favor of Open Borders to make my America more of a global community; however, the federal government must now fix problems that "Red State" governors have caused in our cities.61.54% I do NOT favor the Democratic Socialists' disruption of the cultural fabric of my Representative Republic, and there will be Treasonous Hell to Pay when the certain calamity begins in earnest.
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Hospitals and health systems aren't the only healthcare organizations feeling the heat from financial and staffing struggles. Several ASCs have closed in 2023 for those very reasons and more.

Here is a timeline of 2023's ASC closures and what caused them:

February

In February, the Salem (Ore.) Outpatient Surgery Center closed its doors in response to low patient volumes, putting all future plans on hold. "As with all things COVID-related, we have had to make difficult decisions as circumstances differ from our pre-pandemic expectations. Salem Health has become the sole owner of the surgery center and owns the building. At this time, the future of the surgery center is undecided and will be incorporated into future strategic planning discussions," Salem Health said in a release. Months later, the building still remains shuttered.

March

Marble Falls, Texas-based Hill Country Memorial Surgery Center closed March 31. The closure came after a November 2022 announcement that Hill Country Memorial Hospital was acquired by San Antonio Methodist Hospital. Amanda Stevens, chief strategy officer for Hill Country Memorial Hospital, told dailytrib.com that the acquisition had nothing to do with the decision to close the center.

Phoenix-based Banner Health's surgery center in Loveland, Colo., closed March 31. The decision to close Banner Surgery Center-Skyline's doors "was made to better align outpatient surgery services for physicians and patients in Loveland, and Larimer and Weld counties," according to a statement issued by Banner and management company Atlas Healthcare Partners. The statement also said there was a "duplication of services" between the Skyline location and another ASC in Loveland, the Loveland Reporter-Herald reported.

The ASC at Hudson, Fla.-based Bonati Spine Institute was shut down after the state suspended its license. According to Florida healthcare regulators, a certified surgical technologist, rather than a licensed physician, was performing procedures. The ASC allegedly knowingly allowed the unlicensed person to perform procedures. The ASC has since reopened after paying a fine and submitting a corrective action plan.

April

Cabell Huntington Hospital, a member of Mountain Health Network, closed its outpatient surgery center April 28 and phased out home health services in West Virginia. The hospital cut the services in response to declining patient volumes and decreased financial performance in the wake of the pandemic.

June

Lockport, N.Y.-based Eastern Niagara Health System's ASC closed its doors on June 17 but reopened immediately under Catholic Health management. In November 2019, Eastern Niagara Health System filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

October
The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation, the philanthropic foundation of television producer Chuck Lorre, donated $10 million to Children's Hospital Los Angeles.

The donation will fund a program for students from under-resourced communities who are interested in studying medicine. Through the program, the hospital created the Chuck Lorre Research Scholars Program, a 10-week paid summer laboratory program for area college students. The first cohort finished the program in the summer of 2023, according to a Dec. 5 Children's Hospital Los Angeles news release.

Mr. Lorre is known for his role in the creation of The Big Bang Theory, Two and a Half Men and Dharma and Greg.

"We are thrilled to deepen our partnership with Children's Hospital Los Angeles to ensure more under-resourced students have a leg up to fulfill their dreams," Mr. Lorre said in the news release. "These programs have tremendous potential to shape the future of science and healthcare by creating a more diverse workforce."
The McGrath Family Foundation has donated $25 million to support the new outpatient pavilion at UC San Diego Health's Hillcrest Medical Campus, which is expected to open in 2025.

The 250,000-square-foot, six-story McGrath Outpatient Pavilion will house specialty clinical programs, including oncology, neurosurgery, urology, ear nose and throat and orthopedics, as well as outpatient surgery operating rooms, endoscopy procedure rooms, advanced imaging, infusion and radiation oncology.

The facility aims to support the growing demand for specialized diagnostic, treatment and surgical services. It will provide new space for multispecialty cancer clinics and infusion centers, allowing UC San Diego Health and Moores Cancer Center to expand access to cancer care.

McGrath Outpatient Pavilion is part of phase one of the $3 billion UC San Diego Hillcrest Redevelopment Project, expected to continue over the next 10 to 15 years and will include the replacement of the current hospital.

"UC San Diego Health has entered a period of significant expansion to increase access to the region's No. 1 healthcare provider," CEO Patty Maysent said in a Dec. 5 news release. "The McGrath Family Foundation's investment into one of the region's most cherished community assets will leave an indelible mark on our city, positively impacting the health and wellness of San Diegans for decades to come."
For hospitals and health systems, 2023 was the year of doing more with less. Persistent staff shortages and resource constraints, coupled with rising patient volumes, pushed many organizations to implement or expand innovative care delivery approaches this year.

Virtual nursing emerged as a popular strategy for health systems to unburden bedside nurses and retain older or more experienced nurses looking for less physically intense roles. Renton, Wash.-based Providence rolled out virtual nursing to 10 sites at nine hospitals in four states this year, recognizing the need to "blow up" its traditional hospital care model to address nurse staffing issues. Syl Trepanier, DNP, RN, chief nursing officer of Providence, told Becker's in June that he "wouldn't be surprised" if a virtual nursing component existed at all of Providence's 51 hospitals in the near future, though expansion plans will largely depend on what the system learns from the initial 10 sites this year.

Livonia, Mich.-based Trinity Health also rolled out a new care delivery model in 2023. The model, now live in 50 units across 10 states, partners a virtual nurse with an on-site direct care registered nurse and nursing assistant or licensed practical nurse, functioning as a single team serving patients.

Reimagined care delivery processes also took shape in hospital emergency departments, with some organizations reporting significant operational improvements this year. Hackensack Meridian Health's Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin, N.J., cut its average ED wait time to seven minutes though an initiative that involves taking ED patients straight from check in to a "triage hallway," bypassing the typical waiting room or triage room. Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, N.J., is using a similar direct bedding initiative that has shrunk its "left without being seen rate" to nearly zero and cut wait times to see a physician to under 10 minutes.

"Discharge lounges" gained notice in 2023 for their ability to improve patient experience and throughput. These specialized spaces  implemented by systems including New York City-based Montefiore Health System and Boston-based Massachusetts General Hospital  give patients a quiet, comfortable place to relax during the discharge process, while also allowing hospitals to turn around beds more quickly, reducing the wait times for incoming patients.

These innovative care delivery approaches reflect a broader paradigm shift for the industry and are likely to endure in 2024 and beyond as hospitals continue to navigate significant financial and operational challenges.

Editor's note: This article was updated Dec. 7 at 9:57 a.m. CT.
The average weekly travel nurse pay in November in the U.S. was $2,417.04, a decrease of 0.22% from the previous month and a 10.94% decrease from the same month in 2022, according to a report from Vivian Health, a national healthcare hiring marketplace.

South Dakota saw the sharpest month-over-month decrease, followed by Florida, and Rhode Island saw the sharpest month-over-month increase.

Here are 10 states with the largest dips to average weekly travel nurse pay in November compared with October, according to the report:

Note: The list does not include Washington, D.C.

South Dakota

October: $2,528.36

November: $2,365.79

Month-over-month decrease: 6.43%

Florida

October: $2,221.44

November: $2,155.17

Month-over-month decrease: 2.98%

Mississippi

October: $2,040.89

November: $1,982.56

Month-over-month decrease: 2.86%

Minnesota

October: $2,515.44

November: $2,447.10

Month-over-month decrease: 2.72%

New Mexico

October: $2,339.63

November: $2,279.93

Month-over-month decrease: 2.55%

Vermont

October: $2,645.11

November: $2,582.42

Month-over-month decrease: 2.37%

Utah

October: $2,485.99

November: $2,438.23

Month-over-month decrease: 1.92%

West Virginia

October: $2,377.58

November: $2,335.26

Month-over-month decrease: 1.78%

Ohio

October: $2,393.94

November: $2,353.07

Month-over-month decrease: 1.71%

Idaho

October: $2,284.32

November: $2,249.19

Month-over-month decrease: 1.54%

Here are 10 states with the largest increases to average weekly travel nurse pay in November compared with October, according to the report.

Note: The list does not include Washington, D.C.

Rhode Island

October: $2,437.50

November: $2,555.77

Month-over-month increase: 4.85%

Delaware

October: $2,408.19

November: $2,518.42

Month-over-month increase: 4.58%

Hawaii

October: $2,330.22

November: $2,405.93

Month-over-month increase: 3.25%

Montana

October: $2,211.03

November: $2,271.41

Month-over-month increase: 2.73%

Massachusetts

October: $2,597.20

November: $2,650.88

Month-over-month increase: 2.07%

Louisiana

October: $2,065.78

November: $2,094.55

Month-over-month increase: 1.39%

Nebraska

October: $2,287.58

November: $2,316.73

Month-over-month increase: 1.27%

Tennessee

October: $2,108.18

November: $2,131.12

Month-over-month increase: 1.09%

Alabama

October: $2,083.48

November: $2,105.10

Month-over-month increase: 1.04%

Illinois

October: $2,366.24

November: $2,388.78

Month-over-month increase: 0.95%
The founder of Olive AI registered for a new startup as his healthcare company was disintegrating, Columbus (Ohio) Inno reported.

Sean Lane incorporated the new business, Ghostdog Inc., in July, just a few months before Olive folded and sold its remaining assets to other health IT companies, according to the Dec. 5 report. Olive once had a valuation of $4 billion, about 1,400 employees and several hundred hospital clients.

While Ghostdog aims to provide secure search for military and national security operations, it has similarities to what his previous company tried to do for health systems, the news outlet reported. Olive used robotic process automation and artificial intelligence to search EHRs and insurance information for coverage lapses and other mistakes. Mr. Lane did not respond to a request for comment from the publication.

"Hic Sumus Pro Bellator. 'We are here for the warrior,'" Mr. Lane, a military veteran, wrote Dec. 3 on LinkedIn in revealing Ghostdog. "This was the motto of my first company. It's been the mission that has driven every day since."
From adding nearly 20,000 physicians in 2023 to facing an antitrust lawsuit from a California hospital, here are 10 Optum updates Becker's has reported since Oct. 31:

1. Optum added nearly 20,000 physicians in 2023, Optum Health CEO Amar Desai, MD, said. He said Optum has nearly 90,000 employed or affiliated physicians and another 40,000 advanced practice clinicians serving tens of millions of people.

2. Optum patients who are enrolled in fully accountable Medicare Advantage plans  where Optum takes full financial and clinical responsibility  have better health outcomes than patients enrolled in traditional Medicare, according to UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.

3. Covina, Calif.-based Emanate Health is accusing UnitedHealth Group's Optum of pressuring the system not to compete with Optum in the primary care business, and of steering patients away from their physicians who left Optum to join Emanate's practices.

4. UnitedHealth Group named Shawna Gisch as CEO of Optum Home and Community Care, the company's home-based care division.

5. UnitedHealth Group and its health insurance arm, UnitedHealthcare, are facing a proposed class-action lawsuit alleging an AI algorithm wrongfully denied Medicare Advantage patients care. NaviHealth, the developer of the algorithm that was acquired by Optum in 2020, is also named in the suit.

6. The Justice Department asked a Texas federal court to dismiss its case against Optum-owned SCA Health that alleged the company agreed with competitors not to poach senior-level employees.

7. A former Optum employee will pay $13 million in restitution for his role in a multimillion-dollar fraud scheme.

8. Seven MedExpress Urgent Care clinics  owned by Optum closed their doors in Florida and Minnesota.

9. Optum will move out of an Eden Prairie, Minn.-based campus with 473,000 square feet of office space by the end of 2023.

10. UnitedHealth Group completed its acquisition of health technology firm EMIS Group. Bordeaux UK Holdings II  a unit of UnitedHealth's Optum business  agreed to acquire the U.K.-based EMIS Group in January 2022 in a $1.51 billion deal. The U.K.'s Competition and Markets Authority gave the acquisition the green light in late September following an investigation.
As a $10 billion merger nears completion in Missouri, one of the state's rural health systems is donning its armor, according to a Dec. 4 interview on 93.9 The Eagle.

On the radio show, Jerry Kennett, MD, chair of the board of trustees at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia, Mo., expressed concerns about the upcoming combination of Kansas City, Mo.-based Saint Luke's Health System and St. Louis-based BJC HealthCare, which will create a 28-hospital system. Dr. Kennett has been involved with Boone Health for 44 years  serving as a cardiologist and chief medical officer before joining the board  and recalls when Boone Health separated from BJC HealthCare in 2021.

When asked if he regrets the split, which made Boone Health an independent system, Dr. Kennett defended the choice. Boone Health had been paying BJC more than $35 million a year when the systems chose to part ways, but he remains open to other partnerships, especially as large systems continue to consolidate, he said.

"With any business, you need to always keep alternatives in mind," Dr. Kennett said. "We made the right move by leaving BJC."

But now that BJC is joining forces with Saint Luke's, Boone Health believes a partnership with MU Health Care  the academic health system in Columbia, Mo.  could benefit both parties.

Together, MU Health Care and Boone Health pool about $1.7 billion, a fraction of BJC and Saint Luke's $10 billion in combined revenue. But Dr. Kennett suggests they could collaborate to prevent patients from going to the larger system; for example, they could work to refer patients to a local bone marrow transplant unit rather than sending them to St. Louis.

It will be important for Missouri's rural systems to look ahead and "shore up [their] defenses" ahead of the merger  which has cleared all regulatory hurdles and is expected to close Jan. 1  according to Dr. Kennett. He speculates that the new leadership at both MU Health Care (which named a new CEO in February) and Boone Health (which named a new CEO in October) will be open to working together, but maintains faith in his system's ability to succeed regardless.

"We're on a great trajectory right now," Dr. Kennett said. "There is no doubt in the board of directors' minds that we're going to be successful, and the new CEO  I mean, he wouldn't have come here if he didn't think we were going to be successful."

Meanwhile, MU Health Care is zeroed in on a planned integration of its own, the system's CEO, Ric Ransom, told Becker's Dec. 6.

"We are not surprised by the growing number of hospital systems merging in the interest of forming a more sustainable model of care for the future," Mr. Ransom said. "In fact, MU Health Care is firmly focused on the Jan. 1, 2024 integration with long-time Jefferson City affiliate Capital Region Medical Center. This integration will offer a path to sustainability and growth, providing access to expanded services, technology, improved care coordination and economies of scale."
Nurses at three Ascension hospitals in Texas and Kansas began one-day strikes Dec. 6, marking the second strikes for each hospital this year.

The strikes involve members of the National Nurses Organizing Committee, an affiliate of National Nurses United. The union represents 800 nurses at Ascension Seton Medical Center in Austin, Texas, as well as 650 nurses at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita, Kan., and 300 nurses at Ascension Via Christi St. Joseph Hospital, also in Wichita, according to National Nurses United. All three hospitals are part of St. Louis-based Ascension.

Union members have been in contract negotiations at the two Wichita hospitals since February 2023 and at the 391-bed Austin hospital since November 2022. They are striking to call attention to equipment and staffing issues at their organizations, according to NNU.

The union claims that at Ascension Seton Medical Center in Austin, there is "a lack of functional IV pumps, hospital gowns, blankets and thermometers, as well as persistent problems with hospital-issued phones that nurses use during their shift for communication."

There are also staffing problems at the three hospitals, according to NNU. Specifically, union members are striking in response to what they deem as "management's unsafe 'floating policy'" at the Wichita hospitals, which means "nurses are assigned to units where they do not usually work and may not have the training or expertise to care for those patients." At the Austin hospital, management has proposed that labor and delivery nurses with 18 months of experience be assigned to charge roles, the union said.

"Patient safety is our top priority, and our hospitals remain open and well-prepared to continue to provide patient-centered, holistic care during these strikes," an Ascension spokesperson told Becker's on Dec. 6. "We have a comprehensive plan in place to ensure there is no disruption in service for those who are entrusted to our care. We have contracted with a staffing agency that specializes in work stoppage events and has provided us with a full complement of highly skilled and credentialed registered nurses.

"Ascension will continue to bargain in good faith with National Nurses United to come to agreement on initial contracts that support all, and we are committed to not canceling any scheduled bargaining dates. We believe that differences are best resolved respectfully at the bargaining table, and look forward to returning the focus to working together to reach agreement on fair and reasonable contracts for our registered nurses."

The Dec. 6 strikes are the second strikes for each hospital this year. Nurses at three Ascension hospitals in Texas and Kansas also went on strike in June.



The latest strikes were announced shortly after nurses' planned coordinated confrontation with hospital management Nov. 22 amid negotiations.
Pharmaceutical company Pfizer is dropping out of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, an industrywide lobbying group representing around 1,000 companies, Seeking Alpha reported Dec. 6.

BIO lobbies governments on behalf of the biotech industry on issues such as regulation and taxation. On Dec. 5, BIO named John Crowley, the founder and executive chair of Amicus Therapeutics, as its new CEO.

Earlier this year, Pfizer's competitors AstraZeneca and Teva Pharmaceutical left the other main industry trade group, Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America.
A court has ruled in favor of a Michigan hospital that denied a nursing student's request to bring her service dog on rotations, according to a Dec. 5 JD Supra report written by Seyfarth Shaw law firm.

The plaintiff  a nursing student who worked at Flint, Mich.-based Hurley Medical Center as part of her educational program  was slated to spend four hours a week in the hospital for six weeks. She has a panic disorder, and a service dog alerts her to take medication ahead of panic attacks.

The hospital initially approved the student's request that the dog accompany her on her rotation, but on the student's first day, one staff member and one patient experienced allergic reactions to the dog. The hospital revoked approval of the dog and offered to crate it on a separate floor and allow the plaintiff to take breaks and visit the dog. The hospital determined that relocating the allergic patients and staff would compromise care; the student could not switch floors, as the supervisor for her educational program was on that floor.

The case was brought to the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals, which found that the hospital's decision to revoke approval of the dog was not intentional discrimination, as it was driven by complaints about the animal, not by the student's disability.

The court also held that the hospital had not violated Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, since the service dog did constitute a direct threat by causing allergic reactions. Since it was not possible to separate the dog from allergic patients and staff, and there was no other workable alternative to mitigate the threat, the hospital was not in the wrong, per the court.

This decision can provide helpful guidance to healthcare facilities regarding service dog access, according to the report.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is weighing a bill that seeks to prohibit noncompete agreements, which would make New York the fifth state with such a ban if enacted.

The bill  S.3100A and A.1278B  passed both houses of the state Legislature in June. The legislation would prohibit employers from seeking, requiring, demanding or accepting noncompete agreements from virtually any New Yorker upon enactment of the law. The bill would apply to nonprofit entities, which make up the large majority of health systems and hospitals in the state.

"Promoting stability in healthcare is a major goal of this bill," state Sen. Sean Ryan, who proposed the legislation, said in a statement shared with Becker's Hospital Review.

"What we've seen is that most doctors who are unhappy at their place of employment will leave whether they have signed a noncompete agreement or not," Mr. Ryan said. "That means that those who are under noncompetes often pack up and leave to practice in a different area, which in turn disrupts the continuity of care for their patients. The prevalence of noncompete agreements in the medical field is driving doctors out of New York and harming their patients."

The governor has said she plans to address most legislation by the end of 2023, but there is a chance that a decision on the noncompete bill could arrive in February, officials told The Wall Street Journal.

Ms. Hochul has proposed possible limitations to the bill, including a compensation threshold in which noncompete agreements are permitted for earners of $250,000 or more in the interest of potentially reducing any incentive for retaining businesses and corporations to leave in the state, the Journal reports. Other states have taken the approach of establishing a pay threshold for noncompete agreements, while four states  California, Minnesota, North Dakota and Oklahoma  have banned the clauses entirely.

About 1 in 5 American workers  approximately 30 million people  are subject to a noncompete clause, according to figures from the FTC, which is preparing to release a final rule to restrict use of the covenant. The American Hospital Association has expressed opposition to the federal agency's proposed ban on noncompetes, the scope of which left hospitals with questions.

The New York State Academy of Family Physicians is one healthcare group that has stepped out in support of the legislation in New York. "The disparity in bargaining power between large employers and individual physicians is the foundation upon which inequitable provisions in employment contracts are based," Jose David, MD, former president of the NYS Academy of Family Physicians, said in a news release out of Mr. Ryan's office about the bill.
A nurse at Provo-based Utah Valley Hospital has been arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse after an infant was found with bruises, KSL reported Dec. 5.

Kaycen Caldwell, 29, was charged with the third-degree felony after a police investigation found a 1-month-old boy who had injuries "clearly consistent with squeeze and grab marks from hands," according to a police booking affidavit.

According to police records, the boy's grandmother was watching a livestream of his hospital room at the time of the incident. She said she could tell the infant was crying.

"The nurse came over and was being really rough with the infant. The witness further explained that the nurse used very abrupt movements, pushing the infant down abruptly in quick jerking motions into the head of the crib," according to the affidavit.

A child abuse pediatrician from the University of Utah, who consulted on the case, found the infant had bruising on the forearms, chest and thighs that was not consistent with the care the baby received. The bruises "were indicative of abusive squeezing."

The parents requested Mr. Caldwell no longer be the infant's primary care provider.

"We take the safety and welfare of all of our patients very seriously," the hospital told KSL. "We are aware of these serious accusations and are fully cooperating with investigators in this matter."

Becker's has reached out for comment and will update this story if more information becomes available.
While the nursing shortage is nothing new, the government is seeking new ways to combat it within its military healthcare system. Legislators have proposed a bill that aims to retain skilled nurses at military medical facilities while they pursue higher education.

The Retain Educated Workers and Registered Nurses Developing Experience Act, also dubbed the REWARD Act, was introduced Dec. 4 by U.S. Sens. Ted Budd, R-N.C., and Patty Murray, D-Wash.

It would allow hiring managers of military medical facilities to waive certain qualifications or any general experience requirements for nurses, if they are deemed otherwise qualified, as they pursue additional education.

"During the pandemic, RNs had the highest rates of shortages within the military healthcare system compared to other positions," a supporting document from the senators reads. "Over 85% of (Department of Defense) facilities reported nursing shortages during the pandemic and in January 2023, 80% of civilian vacancies in the Defense Health Agency were healthcare personnel positions."

The current structure within the military healthcare system hires licensed practical nurses, but after receiving additional education, many transfer into the civilian market due to barriers that make it difficult for them to stay and maintain the same level of hierarchy and pay. But by allowing a waiver in certain cases to hire a nurse with an LPN license, nurses can obtain higher levels of education and return to the military health system expecting a similar level of promotional pay and status that they could get in the commercial market, the document explains.

If a hiring manager did decide to waive certain requirements upon hiring a nurse, the legislation requires that secondary verification of their qualifications still be conducted by human resources.

"Our new bipartisan legislation would provide a common-sense fix to incentivize skilled nurses to stay in the military healthcare system, where their services are so important to getting service members and their families timely access to high-quality care," Ms. Murray stated in a Dec. 4 news release. "Staffing shortages are a challenge for healthcare facilities across the country, and we must keep working to find ways to retain qualified and experienced nurses in military healthcare facilities and ensure service members and their families get the care they deserve  I'm proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get that done."

The bill is also supported by the National Military Family Association and the Military Officers Association of America.
With 16 cancer drugs currently on the FDA's drug shortage list, Jason Westin, MD, the director of Houston-based MD Anderson Cancer Center's Lymphoma Clinical Research Program, section chief for Aggressive Lymphoma, told the Senate Finance Committee Dec. 5 that "providers shouldn't have to make impossible choices about patient care."

Shortages create an impossible choice for providers, he explained, when oncologists must decide to go outside of normal solutions and therapies to treat their patients.

Dr. Westin spoke on behalf of the Association for Clinical Oncology, which also wrote a letter to Congress on the same issue.

In his testimony, Dr. Westin proposed several solutions to lawmakers, including that HHS could "incentivize the creation of private sector reserves of essential medicines, medical devices, and supplies," and emphasized how the U.S. should work to strengthen its generic drug pipelines since "most oncology drugs in shortage are old, generic injectables that sell for anywhere from $1 to $8 per dose, leaving these drugs with slim profit margins, sometimes to the point of production costs exceeding the selling price," he explained.

He noted that lawmakers can also introduce legislation that would encourage drugmakers to adopt more advanced technology for manufacturing with incentives like tax credits, and that they could also incentivize purchasers to rework contracts to promote transparency in the supply chain and maintain a reliable supply of key medicines.

"The proposed solutions are immediate steps toward a comprehensive solution. We recognize concerns around increased costs to the health care system. But we will pay a greater long-term cost in the form of delayed or denied care if we do not address underlying economic forces driving shortages of generic drugs," Dr. Westin said. "The shortage of critical cancer drugs is an urgent crisis. My patients, and their families, deserve to know that they will get the care they need without delay."
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Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation Dec. 6 that would increase fines for assaults on healthcare workers.

House Bill 4520 and House Bill 4521 increase fines when these incidents occur while a healthcare professional or medical volunteer is performing their job duties.

Under the legislation, an individual who commits a misdemeanor simple assault faces up to 93 days in prison or a fine of up to $1,000, or both. That fine amount was doubled.

For aggravated assault without a weapon that "inflicts serious or aggravated injury upon that individual without intending to commit murder or to inflict great bodily harm," the punishment is up to one year in prison or a fine of up to $2,000, or both.

For assault "with a gun, revolver, pistol, knife, iron bar, club, brass knuckles or other dangerous weapon without intending to commit murder or to inflict great bodily harm less than murder," the punishment is up to four years in prison or a fine of up to $4,000, or both.

There is an exception if the defendant is a patient who is receiving treatment from the victim.

The legislation also requires healthcare facilities to post a sign about the enhanced fines.

"Healthcare workers face rising rates of bullying and violence," a post on Ms. Whitmer's Facbook page states.

"In Michigan, we can set an example for the nation by treating each other with more grace and kindness. Today's bills will protect healthcare workers and let them know that the state of Michigan has their back.

"Michigan's healthcare workers deserve to feel safe on the job. They care for us when we need it most and we owe them a debt of gratitude."

Healthcare workers told Bridge Michigan they are concerned the patient exception doesn't offer caregivers enough protection. Rep. Mike Mueller, who sponsored one of the bills, said at a hearing in June the exception was made out of consideration for patients who may exhibit violent behavior due to a mental health or substance abuse crisis, according to the report.



The signing of legislation in Michigan comes amid a nationwide push for healthcare worker safety. Hospitals, health systems and states across the U.S. are making efforts to address violence against healthcare workers. These efforts range from a new code of conduct policy to legislation that increases penalties for people convicted of battery of a healthcare provider.
Ben Hamilton has confirmed that popular east Belfast spot Guilt Trip will be closing before Christmas

Popular east Belfast coffee shop Guilt Trip Coffee + Donuts has confirmed that the last store in the chain will shut permanently just before Christmas.

In a post on social media platform Instagram, the new owner of the coffee shop, set up in 2017 by former rugby players Callum Black and Darren Cave, announced its closure after a series of pop-up sales starting from Friday.

It will open for a limited number of days for the goodbye pop-up sales leading up to Christmas, with its doors closing for the last time on December 23.

Former general manager Ben Hamilton confirmed that he had taken over the store  the last in the Guilt Trip chain  last month. He said it would now be closing.

He did not share the reasons behind the decision to pull the shutters on the popular brand.

Mr Hamilton said: It is a complete honour and privilege to have the opportunity to take on ownership of this special spot in east Belfast.

I want to give Guilt Trip the send off it deserves and treat our [original] gang to one last truly authentic [Guilt Trip] experience.

Mr Hamilton hinted at a refresh and rebrand of the unit in the new year.

He said: After that, Im not going anywhere, and cant wait to continue to serve the local community, Belfast, and beyond with super tasty coffee and a place to connect.

Loyal customers of the brand were surprised by the announcement, which came two days after a post was shared on social media platform Instagram announcing that old management had taken over the home of donuts hinting at the revival of the brand.

Mr Hamilton has a long history with the Guilt Trip brand, joining in 2017 as one of the original members of the management team before leaving in March 2020.

After his departure Mr Hamilton established Process Coffee.

But any hopes of a revival were dashed as only days later the Instagram account shared a subsequent post headlined nothing good lasts forever which announced that Guilt Trip Belfast was coming to an end.

The coffee chain had a meteoric rise after it was set up in 2017, growing to nine stores - including four in England - by 2022.

But since then the business had shrunk with only east Belfast remaining.

Former co-owner Adrian McLaughlin confirmed that the England stores will continue to operate under different ownership.

It is the latest in a series of recent coffee shop closures around Belfast.

Last month it was confirmed that global coffee giant Starbucks would be closing its Botanic Avenue store in December, while independent brands District in the Ormeau Road and Cafe Gaga on the Lisburn Road have also shut.
A Northern Ireland man has said claims by Ryanair that customers havent been required to pay for seating in order to download a digital boarding pass on their phone are absurd.

There has been confusion after some customers hit out at the budget airline for an apparent change in policy  a change the airline denied was in force.

Passengers happy to accept a random seat allocation say they were offered the option of queueing at a Ryanair check-in desk to print a paper boarding pass at the airport, or to pay to reserve a specific seat in order to display an e-boarding pass on their smartphone.

Previously, those accepting a random seat would have received a free online boarding pass on their phone as well.

However, a spokesperson for Europes biggest budget airline, when contacted by the Belfast Telegraph, said: There is no charge for a Ryanair digital boarding pass  ever.

Both e-boarding passes and printed passes are typically offered without a requirement to pay for seat selection by most airlines.

One local man, who recently travelled from Dublin to Faro, said he checked in for a flight on Saturday.

I was surprised to see that I was checked in but a [smartphone] boarding pass was unavailable unless I chose to select and pay for a seat, he said.

He was further advised to proceed to the Ryanair desk to collect my boarding pass for free, or I could choose a seat [and pay] and get an instant boarding pass.

He added: The fact Ryanair are saying in your article they do not charge is absurd  if I wanted it [his boarding pass] instantly I had to pay for it.

The man said he enquired at the desk whether he would be required to go through the same process on the return trip and was told by the attendant she wasnt sure.

She told me that they are trialling this in some airports but she wasnt sure which ones, he explained.

Clearly they didnt put a lot of thought into it.

The issue is still far from clear at present.

A spokesperson for Ryanair said in response: As per our statement, which this passenger correctly points out, there is no charge for a Ryanair digital boarding pass  ever.

The airline also told media: All Ryanair passengers can pay for a reserved seat if they so wish, or if passengers wish to avoid this seat fee, they can select a randomly allocated seat entirely free of charge.

Queries to the Ask Ryanair account on X (formerly Twitter), stated that due to popularity of reserved seats, Ryanair is keeping seats available until the end for those customers wishing to purchase.

Some passengers will be assigned the last remaining seats at the airport for free.

The Belfast Telegraph asked Ryanair specifically: can passengers who dont choose a seat and who therefore avoid the seat fee  also get their digital boarding pass for free on their mobile phone?

So far there has been no response to this question.
A Belfast man who punched a taxi driver and tourist in separate city centre attacks is a potential time bomb without his medication, a judge said today.

Conor Jackson, 25, was due to be sentenced today for a series of attacks which also involved kicking a police officer in the chest.

But District Judge Ted Magill adjourned proceedings after being told the 25-year-old has been diagnosed as suffering from paranoid schizophrenia.

Mr Magill said: His medication usually keeps it under control, (but) when the medication stops its like a time bomb.

Jackson, of Salisbury Avenue, appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court on charges including assault occasioning actual bodily harm, criminal damage, common assault, disorderly behaviour and assaults on police in connection with four separate incidents.

Prosecutors said he was first arrested in December 2021 following disturbances at Donegall Place.

A taxi driver claimed Jackson struck the front of his vehicle when he beeped his horn at him for stepping out onto the road.

When the driver got out and told him to wait for police, the defendant punched him to the side of the head and scraped his neck, a Crown lawyer said.

He was detained again for another unprovoked assault at Bradbury Place on June 6 last year on a tourist from England.

The victim had stopped at a traffic island to take a picture of a local takeaway when Jackson made an aggressive approach and demanded to look at his phone, the court heard.

The prosecutor added: The injured party tried to reason with him and offered to delete the photograph, but was punched and knocked to the ground.

In a further incident on January 31 this year he assaulted another resident at their place of accommodation and rained blows on his head when he fell to the ground.

At one stage the other man had to lock himself into a toilet area.

When police arrived Jackson swung a metal frame at them, forcing officers to retreat and deploy spray.

Jackson was arrested again following an outburst at his home on July 15.

He issued threats and lashed out at officers, the court was told, kicking one constable in the chest.

Defence barrister Kelly Doherty said her clients medical condition was diagnosed earlier this year.

Mr Magill indicated that he initially intended to impose a substantial prison sentence.

But after studying a doctors assessment, he described the defendant as someone whose health has been seriously compromised.

With Jackson remaining in custody, the judge adjourned sentencing until a separate case is dealt with later this month.

Mr Magill told him: When I heard the facts I had no sympathy for you, but after reading the psychiatric report the picture has changed.

You really do need help; not only to help you, but to help protect the public from you.
East Belfast pharmacist facing controlled drugs supply charges

Director accused of breaches over fentanyl, morphine and co-codomol

Castlereagh Pharmacy

Stephen Gordon Wed 6 Dec 2023 at 07:38

The director of a Belfast pharmacy has been accused of supplying prescription drugs in breach of medicine regulations.
Former Belfast councillor Jolene Bunting was unfairly banned from seeking re-election at a tribunal where she feared having to face the leader of far-right party Britain First, the Court of Appeal heard today.

A barrister for Ms Bunting argued that the adjudication process should have been adjourned due to her anxiety at the prospect of cross-examining Paul Golding without legal representation.

Judgment was reserved in her attempt to have the three-year disqualification quashed.

In February the Northern Ireland Local Government Commissioner for Standards (NILGCS) imposed the sanction for a breach of its code of conduct.

The watchdog found that Ms Bunting doctored a payslip in a bid to obtain cash from Britain First.

An investigation was initiated following a complaint lodged by Mr Golding.

He claimed his party sent Ms Bunting money to cover an alleged fine from Belfast City Council for a publicity stunt involving its former deputy leader, Jayda Fransen.

Ms Fransen had been filmed making a statement while wearing robes and sitting in the lord mayors chair at City Hall in 2018.

But the tribunal was told that a 545 deduction in Ms Buntings council pay was actually because she exceeded the data allowance on her mobile phone.

The watchdog held that she improperly used her position to secure financial advantage by amending her payslip to gain from Mr Golding and Britain First, bringing her position as a councillor into disrepute.

Ms Bunting denied the allegations throughout the adjudication and also made a last-ditch attempt to halt the proceedings.

Her legal challenge centres on an alleged refusal by NILGCS to grant her an adjournment in order to secure lawyers for the hearing.

She did not attend the adjudication, but had sent an email the previous evening setting out her failure to obtain legal representation.

The court was told she also referred to Mr Golding as someone who had caused her great consternation and anxiety over the last number of years.

Ms Bunting also claimed to be genuinely in fear of the Britain First leader and stated that she was not ready to face him, let alone engage with him.

On the day of the tribunal she tried unsuccessfully for more than half an hour to join remotely in order to seek to have the case put back.

Her initial High Court challenge was dismissed after a judge held that the adjournment request was reasonably denied at a tribunal where appropriate safeguards were available.

Appealing that ruling, Ronan Lavery KC contended there was procedural unfairness in the handling of Ms Buntings case.

He claimed that by the time she found out her bid for an adjournment had been denied it was a fait accompli.

During exchanges Lord Justice McCloskey challenged Mr Lavery about his clients failure to attend her own hearing.

On her own account she was never going to go there because of fear and intimidation, the judge pointed out.

But the barrister maintained that the issue had already been decided.

The decision maker was obliged to have regard to all the facts in balancing them against the public interest in proceeding, he added.

A ruling on Ms Buntings appeal is expected later this month.
A burning car on the railway lines in Lurgan during disorder on August 23, 2020 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

A 29-year old man who threw a petrol bomb at police during a riot on the Kilwilke Estate in Lurgan has been jailed.

Diarmiud McKee was handed a sentence of five years and three months by Judge Patricia Smyth at Belfast Crown Court.

McKee, from Deeny Drive in Lurgan, was one of several men arrested in the aftermath of the riot which broke out on the afternoon of August 23, 2020.

Police arrived at Kilwilke at around 8am that day to deal with a suspicious device and when this was made safe, a search then commenced on waste ground.

A crowd began to gather in the area and neighbourhood police were deployed to explain the police presence to residents.

The court heard that between 2.15pm and 3.06pm there were a total of four petrol bomb attacks directed at police, and McKee was involved in the third attack.

At 2.44pm, McKee and a second male  both masked  launched petrol bombs at officers, with the devices landing close to a police Land Rover at the junction of Victoria Road and Levin Road.

McKee then walked to an alleyway between two houses on the Kilwilke Road where he removed the jacket he had been wearing.

The street disorder was recorded by cameras attached to police Land Rovers as well as the aerial support unit, and after the footage was viewed by police, a number of men including McKee were arrested.

McKee was stopped by police in the early hours of the following morning and was identified as one of the petrol bombers via clothing identification.

During an interview with police, he refused to comment when asked about the riot.

McKee denied charges of rioting and throwing a petrol on August 23, 2020 and maintained this stance until the day of his trial last October, when he entered guilty pleas to both charges.

Defence barrister Kieran Mallon KC said McKees guilty pleas reflected an insight into the impact his offending has on the community, particularly young people, as well as the effect its has on his family.

Revealing these pleas were made in very difficult circumstances, Mr Mallon told Judge Smyth that whilst on remand, McKee is housed amongst the general population and not on a paramilitary wing.

Mr Mallon also raised McKees lack of offending and absence of political motivation.

McKee later told a Probation Officer he had been drinking heavily the night before the incident and described his involvement as a moment of madness.

The Belfast Recorder spoke of several aggravating elements including the defendant being part of a group involved in four petrol bomb attacks.

The judge added: The offending involved the deliberate targeting of the police who were acting in the course of their duty as public servants.

Accepting there was no evidence put forward by the Crown to suggest there was a terrorism link in this case, the judge said: In those circumstances I do not find that there is any terrorist connection and therefore the offending is not aggravated in that way.

Judge Smyth branded petrol bombs as potentially lethal weapons, said it was fortunate no officer was injured during the riot.

She added: No doubt the offending caused anxiety amongst those members of the community who want no part of such violence.

The importance of ensuring that the Kilwilke Estate does not become a no-go area and that the police can safely patrol the area to protect the public cannot be overestimated.

Saying a deterrent sentence was required, Judge Smyth imposed a term of five years and three months, half of which will be served in custody and half on licence.
Lawyer representing victims holds out little hope as PPS decides not to charge 16 people

A leading criminal lawyer has indicated he doesnt believe the investigation into a senior Army agent in the IRA will lead to any prosecutions.

Kevin Winters was speaking after the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) announced there would be no charges after it considered five files on 16 individuals forwarded by Operation Kenova.

Kenova has carried out a 40m investigation into the activities of the agent Stakeknife  the head of the IRAs internal security unit, Freddie Scappaticci, who was also working for the British, and was involved in dozens of murders.

The PPS said on Wednesday that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute in relation to three murders of informers in 1981, 1987, and 1993.

A decision will be made early next year on another 10 files relating to 21 individuals, but Mr Winters, who represents many of the victims, holds out little hope that anybody will ever be charged in connection with Stakeknifes activities.

He described the PPSs latest decision as deeply disappointing but not surprising, and said he would be seeking a review.

The solicitor also rounded on prosecutors for failing to name Scappaticci, who died earlier this year, in their statement as insulting to his victims.

We are instructed to request an immediate review of the decisions not to prosecute. As part of that request we will raise a number of issues, he said.

We do not agree with the PPS declining to identify Fred Scappaticci as the deceased suspect. Sir John Stevens in his reports was able to identify the military agent Brian Nelson in his reports into loyalist-state collusion.

We know of no good reason why there is a departure here. Refusing to name him is nothing short of insulting to the next of kin and ought to be remedied immediately.

The refusal to identify him is consistent with residual suspicion of a cover-up when it comes to investigations into allegations of republican-state collusion. We call on the PPS to reverse this decision immediately.

There are 10 other cases due for consideration. Expectations that decision-making will be any different for those cases are understandably very low. Operation Kenovas report has yet to be published, with the latest predicted date early next year.

Operation Kenova focuses on the activities of Freddie Scappaticci, widely believed to have been the agent codenamed "Stakeknife"

Mr Winters added: Todays announcement upscales pressure on Kenova to deliver answers for families and other victims via its long-awaited public facing report.

The termination of any potential criminal inquisition into the so-called Stakeknife affair only heightens expectations for delivery of truth and justice in pending private family reports .

After todays setback its really the very least the next of kin and others can expect.

The latest files examined by the PPS related to nine former IRA members: three in connection with a 1981 murder, two in connection with a 1987 murder, two in connection with a 1993 murder, and two in connection with false imprisonment and conspiracy to murder in 1990.

The files also centred on six ex-British military personnel including an army lawyer and one former police officer in connection with allegations of perverting the course of justice and misconduct in public office.

The PPS said victims and families directly related to its decisions had received a detailed written explanation of the reasons, along with an offer to meet to discuss the information provided.

Director of Public Prosecutions Stephen Herron said the decisions were taken independently and impartially by an experienced team of senior prosecutors, assisted by independent counsel.

I acknowledge that todays decisions will be a reminder of the painful and harrowing circumstances of how some Operation Kenova families lost a loved one, and we are seeking to minimise any further trauma caused by revisiting these cases publicly, he said.

I can assure victims, families and the wider public that all prosecution decisions were taken carefully, impartially and wholly independently.

The challenges in prosecuting legacy cases are well known. The events with which these decisions are concerned took place several decades ago and the witness and forensic evidence available was limited.

A significant body of the material that prosecutors considered included intelligence records. For reasons which we have sought to explain in detail in the public statement, it was not possible to use this material in these cases in order to bring prosecutions.

Such material may, however, allow Operation Kenova to form a view as to what happened in particular cases and in providing answers to the questions that families may have about the circumstances in which they lost their loved one.

In total, the PPS has received 26 files from Operation Kenova. In October 2020, it said a decision had been taken not to prosecute four individuals reported, and earlier this year it announced a formal no decision outcome in relation to 10 of the files as they contained just one suspect who died in 2023.
A teenager crashed into a caravan when she used her mums car to embark on a late-night trip to a North Coast beach.

The terrified caravan occupants probably thought a bomb had gone off when L-driver Chloe Brown (19) crashed into the mobile home, a lawyer said.

Today at Limavady Magistrates Court, sitting in Coleraine, Brown, who fled the scene with her passenger, was hit with an 18-month driving ban and fines totalling 600.

Sentencing Brown, District Judge Peter King told her that while what happened was disastrous, its not the end of the world.

Brown, from Coolessan Walk in Limavady, had earlier entered guilty pleas to five driving offences arising from events on April 26 this year.

She admitted aggravated vehicle theft, not having insurance, being an unaccompanied learner-driver, not displaying L plates and failing to report an accident.

A prosecuting lawyer said police were tasked to Fairways Caravan Park on Benone Avenue just after midnight after a Nissan Qashqai crashed into a caravan and the attached awning.

Two women were spotted fleeing the scene and descriptions were given to the police, who found Brown and her passenger nearby, said the lawyer.

The lawyer said police enquiries established that Brown had a provisional licence and her passenger was not suitable to supervise a learner-driver.

Those enquiries also showed that the crashed car belonged to Browns mother and the defendant had neither permission nor insurance to drive it.

Emphasising that Brown has a completely clear criminal record, defence solicitor Peter Jack said he had no doubt the poor people in the caravan were terrified and thought that a bomb had gone off.

Its a disastrous sequence of events, conceded the solicitor, revealing that Brown and her friend had made an ill-advised decision to take a late-night trip to the beach, but her driving inexperience lead to a loss of control of the car.

Having crashed the car, Brown panicked and fled the scene, but Mr Jack said that thankfully no one was hurt and there was no alcohol involved in the bad driving.

Imposing the fines and driving ban, District Judge King advised Brown to get back into college, put this behind you and let this be a perfect example of the first and last time you are in court.
Apology issued to patients in eight supported living facilities where staff also used fuel and heating after inspectors found potential financial abuse

People living in supported facilities across the trust were charged in full for fuel and heating, even though staff members also used the utilities

A health trust has been forced to apologise after it overcharged scores of adults with a learning disability for utility bills.

The Southern Health and Social Care Trust has apologised to residents and their families after it emerged people living in supported facilities across the trust area were charged in full for all fuel and heating bills, even though trust staff members also used the utilities. In facilities where staff also live part-time, health trusts must contribute to bills. The practice of charging residents for all bills was branded potential financial abuse by a regulator.

It is understood around 85 residents at all eight facilities across the Southern trust have been affected.

The facilities include Ardaveen in Bessbrook, Co Armagh; Bowens Close in Lurgan, Co Armagh; Glanree in Newry; Granville Manor in Dungannon, Co Tyrone; Lilburn Hall in Lurgan, Co Armagh; Orchard House in Loughgall, Co Armagh; Shanlieve in Kilkeel, Co Down, and Teach Sona in Mullaghbawn, Co Armagh.

The trust said it will repay residents who were overcharged - a bill which is estimated to run into thousands of pounds.

The Detail repeatedly asked the trust how long the practice went on for and how much money was involved.

However, the trust did not directly respond, adding that the total cost is not available as this is an ongoing process.

Concerns were first raised during a Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) inspection of Granville Manor in April last year.

The inspection revealed that information was provided which identified potential inappropriate charges to service users for utility bills, such as oil and electric.

The inspector was advised that service users were charged for the dwelling used by members of staff, the inspection report read.

The report noted that this was an inappropriate charge to service users and the practice had been previously identified by RQIA as potential financial abuse.

An RQIA spokesman said during the inspection report concerns were raised regarding the arrangements for charging service users for utility bills.

The trust advised RQIA that this charging process was operated at eight of its supported living services, he said.

RQIA discussed the appropriateness of the charging arrangements and as a result the Trust agreed to address these issues and implement a more suitable process for charging service users.

The trust has advised RQIA that it is in the final stages of engagement with service users and their representatives in relation to timeframes for repayments to service users.

The trust said it had been contributing to these bills since July 2022.

The trust has engaged with service-users and their families as well as with RQIA and Independent Advocacy Services in relation to tenant contributions toward utility bills in Trust managed supported living facilities, a spokesman said.

A more suitable process for charging service users has now been implemented.

The process to reimburse service users for overpayment of utility bills is ongoing.

We apologise for any distress this may have caused to the tenants and their families.
Members of a nationalist-dominated Northern Ireland council have voted against an offer of a free portrait of King Charles by an overwhelming majority.

The Cabinet Office wrote to Fermanagh and Omagh District Council advising that a scheme had been launched for all public authorities to apply for a free portrait of the King.

While unionists were in favour, it was rejected by nationalist councillors.

It led to a heated debate at the council meeting.

Ulster Unionist councillor John McClaughry said the offer should be accepted as the Royal Family mean a lot to quite a few people in this district.

He noted a highly symbolic visit to Enniskillen by the late Queen in 2012, when she crossed the road between St Macartin's Church of Ireland Cathedral and St Michaels Catholic church.

He said: They have also been there to step across divides, to compromises and to seek reconciliation, no more so than in our own town of Enniskillen where we saw the Queen cross from the cathedral into St Michaels church.

"I propose we take the Cabinet Office up on this offer and there can then be a discussion on where we put it.

Seconding, DUP councillor Errol Thompson added: I think its important how the Royal Family have crossed all boundaries within Northern Ireland, throughout the United Kingdom and indeed the Republic of Ireland.

Read more Northern Ireland artist paints special tribute to the King Charles in just two days

However, Sinn Fein councillor Sheamus Greene was against the portrait, saying it may be against council policy to accept.

He told members: I would propose we do not accept, because our policy is not to have symbols, emblems and political memorabilia in any of our civic buildings.

Whats the purpose in wasting the money bringing this portrait over here to just have it stored in some council building, especially in these times of the cost-of-living crisis? I dont think it would be well-used money.

But Ulster Unionist councillor Diana Armstrong claimed it would be churlish of Sinn Fein not to support this.

She contended: We all witnessed when King Charles came on his tour following his crowning, the very, very warm relationship he received from all parties. As an outreach from that, I think it would be acceptable to receive this portrait. And indeed I believe there was a portrait of the late Queen in the museum, which would be a fitting venue for [King Charless portrait].

SDLP councillor Adam Gannon said he agreed with Mr Greenes interpretation that it could be seen as a political symbol.

Some people wouldnt see it as such, and I understand that, but many people would, he argued.

Weve also been having discussions around artwork and photos which [council] has on our own history in Fermanagh and Omagh, but we dont have the space for them. So would we be removing our own local portraits to make space for an additional one from elsewhere? But potentially it goes against our policy.

Countering this, Ulster Unionist councillor Robert Irvine said he didnt agree with those against accepting the portrait.

He claimed Mr Gannon was wrong to say that the monarchy is perceived as political.

They try their utmost not to be political and, as my colleagues have said, they have crossed the divide, trying to reach across [a] hand [to] both communities, he contended.

I think theres possibly an issue here of double standards, because this is supposed to be a shared island and we are supposed to respect each others cultures.

We are trying to participate in our perceived culture and we would like to avail of the offer coming from the Cabinet Office. Its a different discussion as to where the portrait may or may not hang.

This discussion at hand is whether we will uptake the offer and I think it would be wrong for all parties not to accept. Its not a political gesture.

With division obvious, chair Thomas OReilly put the matter to a vote, which resulted in 22-12 against.
Drivers urged to make the wise choice as annual anti-drink driving campaign launched

Police stop motorists as they the launch of this years police winter anti-drink/drug drive near the Knocknagoney Road and Garnerville Road in Belfast on Tuesday. Pic: Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker

Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson at the launch of this years winter anti-drink/drug drive in Belfast on Tuesday

Police officers caught drink driving will face the consequences like every other member of the public, the PSNI has said.

It comes as the police launched their annual anti-drink driving campaign on Tuesday, highlighting the associated dangers ahead of the traditionally busy Christmas period.

More than 2,800 people were detected drink driving through the use of the preliminary breath test (PBT) in 2023 alone, while to date this year there have been 60 deaths on Northern Irelands roads.

In 2022, a total of six PSNI officers were detected drink driving, with the most high profile case that of former Chief Superintendent Patricia Foy.

Ms Foy (57) was more than twice the legal drink driving limit when she crashed her car into a traffic crossing during a December 24 grocery run last year.

She was disqualified from driving for 18 months, hit with a fine and later dismissed from her role with the PSNI.

Former PSNI Chief Superintendent Patricia Foy

Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson said any further officers detected drink driving would face a similar fate.

To have a police officer caught drink driving is unacceptable and they need to leave the organisation; all of my colleagues would agree with that, he told the Belfast Telegraph.

Police officers are just like members of the public; they make decisions and there will be consequences for them.

Each of those officers will be presented to a court  if they already havent been  and they will have to face discipline as well.

It doesnt matter whether youre a police officer, a public sector worker, member of the public, mother, father, child or whatever.

The consequences are yours, the decisions are yours, so make the right decision particularly when it comes to drink driving in the weeks ahead.

Officers caught drink driving will face the same consequences as any member of the public - Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson

Police officers have maintained a visible presence over the last few weeks, with the operation set to continue through the festive period.

Mr Donaldson appealed to the public to be mindful of their own driving.

Our appeal today is specifically about drink driving but when it comes to the fatal five  drink driving, speeding, careless driving, not wearing a seatbelt and using a mobile phone  we just appeal to people to make wise decisions, he said.

The decisions you make have consequences. If you get caught drink driving, you are going to court, youre going to lose your licence, you may lose your job and youll certainly lose your reputation.

We do this all year. It is a priority for us as an organisation. Every single day, traffic officers and local officers are out trying to assist and educate.

There is a world of effort goes on in the background in schools and colleges, there is a world of work that goes on with partners such as DfI and the Road Safety Partnership.

I would appeal to people to slow down, to not get careless or drink drive any day of the year and not just over the Christmas period.

I think if people take wise decisions around drink driving, we can reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on our roads, Mr Donaldson added.

The police and our partners can only do so much, but the public can help us here.

Make wise decisions and realise the consequences if you dont.
Belfast City Council has agreed to write to Sir Jeffrey Donaldson to express its frustration at the DUPs failure to live up to its responsibilities.

At the December meeting of the full Council, the chamber again officially criticised the DUP for blocking a functioning executive and Assembly  the second time in a month.

The decision came during a debate in which the DUP came under fire from other parties at City Hall over a motion DUP Group Leader Councillor Sarah Bunting tabled concerning the cost of school uniforms and PE kits.

The chamber refused to endorse the DUP motion, which urged the council to write to the Stormont Department of Education expressing concern and urging it to take action on the financial problems faced by families over the cost of uniforms.

Instead the chamber backed an amended motion by the SDLP which denounced the collapse of the Executive. Belfast Council is currently the largest functioning democratic body in Northern Ireland while Stormont is in stasis.

The original DUP motion stated: The council recognises that the uncapped cost of school uniforms and PE kits is causing financial hardship for many families across the borough.

A recent poll from Save the Children NI revealed that a third of parents in Northern Ireland have had to borrow money to pay for their childs uniform and PE items, while six in 10 parents were financially challenged trying to cover the cost.

In recognition of this ongoing hardship, this Council will write to the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Education expressing concern for children and their parents and request that his department take action as a matter of urgency to address the longstanding problem.

Read more Only NI Executive can aid school uniform cost concerns, says councillor

The amended SDLP motion which was passed includes all of the DUP motion wording, but adds: (The council) requests that his Department put in place robust and enforceable measures to require schools to provide for affordable uniform options from a range of suppliers.

It adds: This Council notes that work to address this issue had commenced before the collapse of the last Executive but has been stalled as a result of the absence of an Education Minister, and regrets that it is families who are being impacted from the resulting lack of progress.

This is being compounded by the continued unconscionable budget cuts made by Chris Heaton-Harris MP as a tactic in his attempts to negotiate with the Democratic Unionist Party.

Belfast City Council will therefore write to Jeffrey Donaldson MP to express its frustration at the DUPs failure to live up to its responsibilities, and ask that it take up its place in an Executive without further delay so ministers rather than civil servants can make decisions to tackle the cost of living crisis facing our community.

Out of the 60 member chamber, 41 councillors voted in favour of the amendment, from Sinn Fein, Alliance, the SDLP, the Green Party, and People Before Profit. Fourteen voted against the amended motion, from the DUP, the UUP and the TUV.

In November the council passed a motion calling for a fair pay offer for staff in NI Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts.

It added that Belfast Council condemns the refusal by the DUP to participate in the reform and reformation of the Executive, which would allow for local decisions on HSC pay to be taken with haste; and calls for a fair pay offer for HSC staff to be tabled immediately.

During Mondays City Hall debate, Alliance councillor Jenna Maghie said: It is to our shame that we havent been able to tackle this, and part of it, we have to admit, is the absence of the Assembly.

She added: It would be remiss of me not to mention that it is not just an Executive now that can fix it. The previous Executive could have fixed it. I welcome the (DUP) motion brought by the proposer, but it was her colleague who didnt seek to fix it in the last Executive.

SDLP councillor Paul Doherty said: With the collapse of the Executive, work has been stalled as a result of there not being an Education Minister in place. While I welcome the intent (of the DUP) motion, I feel we have to be blunt here.

The reason why we are here is the fact the DUP has failed to live up to its responsibilities by refusing to get back to work. It is as simple as that.

DUP councillor Bradley Ferguson said: I have to say the Northern Ireland Executive must have been one of the best governments there has ever been in the world, because it had a bottomless pot of money to solve every problem going.

DUP councillor Sarah Bunting said: When the Assembly returns there will not be a magic money tree. The Permanent Secretary has the ability to implement these statutory guidelines and I am sure is aware of every partys position on this.

We could have sent a united message that this should be a priority to implement before we reach the end of this school term, and parents have to start thinking about another expensive shopping trip.
Ex-UDP figure will address concerns over reconciliation

A former loyalist politician is to speak at a conference next year organised by pro-Irish unity group Irelands Future.

David Adams will address delegates at the event in Belfasts SSE arena.

Along with Gary McMichael, he was a representative of the UDA-linked Ulster Democratic Party (UDP).

Mr Adams had joined the UDA in the late 1970s.

He was present with other prominent loyalist figures at Fernhill House in Glencairn on October 13, 1994, when the Combined Loyalist Military Command ceasefire was announced.

Mr Adams and Mr McMichael were the UDPs main negotiators at the Good Friday Agreement discussions. They were both strong supporters of the peace deal.

Mr Adams later left the UDP and went to work in Dublin for the Irish aid agency Goal until 2018.

He will be the guest speaker at Irelands Futures Pathway to Change conference on June 15, next year.

Mr Adams said: Over recent weeks, I have publicly expressed serious concerns about a distinct lack of effort  to put it at its mildest  on the part of our politicians and others to advance reconciliation in Northern Ireland.

Reconciliation is, after all, the ultimate objective of our peace process  indeed, of any peace process worthy of the name. Everything else must come second to that.

As a result of my interventions, the good people at Irelands Future have graciously reached out to me. They have invited me to participate in their June 2024 conference so that I might put my concerns directly to them and their audience.

Mr Adams said that as someone who is absolutely wedded to the principle of dialogue, he immediately accepted their kind invitation.

He said: I want to make clear that I speak for no one but myself. Indeed, it was with great reluctance I decided to speak out at all.

I have absolutely no desire to again become a public figure  and the sooner I can retreat to comfortable anonymity again, the better.

However, such are my concerns, I felt I had no option but to express them publicly.

The former loyalist politician said: We all have a duty to do what we can to end division and create a truly peaceful society. A society at ease with itself.

A society where everyone not only belongs but is valued and made to feel they fully belong. Where any and all individual differences  whether they be of skin colour, ethnicity, religious or political beliefs or whatever  are of absolutely no consequence to anyone but the person in question.

The comfortable anonymity I referred to includes not only playing with my grandchildren but being able to look them in the eye knowing I did all that I could to try to create a future worth having. A future worthy of our children, grandchildren, and succeeding generations.

Asked how he would vote in a referendum on Irish unity, Mr Adams said he would choose the alternative which offered a better future for his grandchildren.
Gender-affirming care for children could be considered a new form of conversion therapy, Kemi Badenoch has said.

The women and equalities minister made the claim as she confirmed ministers still have plans to bring forward a Bill to ban conversion therapy practices, but said the legislation has to address issues with affirmation care.

Conversion therapy practices seek to change or suppress someones sexual orientation or gender identity.

The Government first promised to ban the practices under Theresa Mays premiership, while Boris Johnson repeated the pledge when he was prime minister.

In the Commons, Tory former minister Sir Conor Burns asked if it is still the Governments intention to bring forward conversion therapy ban legislation to this House.

Kemi Badenoch (Aaron Chown/PA)

Ms Badenoch said she was very happy to confirm that and said: A commitment was given to publish a draft Conversion Practices Bill for pre-legislative scrutiny. I am determined to meet this promise, as I know is the minister for equalities.

Attempts at so-called conversion therapy are abhorrent and are largely already illegal. So what a Bill would do is identify this as a particular threat to gay people and confirm the illegality of harmful processes intended to change someones sexuality.

She added: In that time since this Bill was first promised, this issue has developed. Now the threat to many young gay people is not conversion relating to their sexuality but conversion relating to gender identity. Girls like Keira Bell who were rushed on to puberty blockers by the NHS and had a double mastectomy now regret the irreversible damage done to them. I believe this is a new form of conversion therapy.

Respected clinicians like those who left Tavistock have made clear they are fearful of giving honest clinical advice to a child because if they do not automatically affirm and medicalise a childs new gender they will be labelled transphobic, so whatever Bill we do needs to address many of those issues and that is why we are going to publish a draft Bill.

Ms Badenoch earlier told MPs that no child is born in the wrong body after former prime minister Liz Truss asked if the Government would back her Private Members Bill, which aims to ban biological men from single-sex spaces.

The South West Norfolk MPs Bill is expected to be debated in the Commons on March 15.

Ms Truss told the Commons: First of all, it will be clear that single-sex spaces and sex as defined in the Equality Act is on the basis of biological sex. Secondly, what it will do is protect the under-18s from undergoing hormone treatment for gender dysphoria. It will also make sure the state doesnt formally recognise social transitioning for the under-18s.

Ms Badenoch said she supports any effort to clarify the law, adding: No child is born in the wrong body and no child should be put on a medical pathway towards irreversible medical transition.

The minister also told MPs that her review into whether sex should be defined as biological sex in law was aimed at preventing predators from exploiting the loopholes in existing legislation.

Asked to clarify what her plans would mean, Ms Badenoch said: It is not trans people that we are trying to limit. It is the predators who are using the loopholes and giving the trans community a bad name.

So what we are trying to protect is the example I used before: male prisoners going into female prisons while claiming that they are female. We need to continue to provide clarity because many public authorities are confused; they dont understand.

Tom Hunt, Tory MP for Ipswich, meanwhile claimed a concept called the gender-bread person had appeared in a school in his constituency and promoted the idea that biology didnt matter.

After describing it as complete self-identification, he claimed it promoted outdated gender stereotypes, adding: Does she also agree with me that in primary schools we should be incredibly careful about promoting anything to do with gender ideology?

Ms Badenoch said the issue is one of the things I am seeking to resolve.
Rishi Sunak has been rocked by the resignation of his immigration minister after rejecting demands to opt out of European human rights laws to revive the Rwanda policy.

Robert Jenrick told the Prime Minister on Wednesday that his new draft legislation aimed at stopping small boat crossings does not go far enough and is a triumph of hope over experience.

Mr Sunaks long-term political ally argued that he had to quit because he has such strong disagreements with the Governments approach to immigration.

Mr Jenrick had been seen as taking an increasingly firm approach over plans to stop asylum seekers making unauthorised crossings of the Channel in small boats in recent weeks.

The draft Bill compels judges to treat Rwanda as a safe country after the Supreme Court ruled the scheme was unlawful over risks to refugees.

The legislation, which must be voted on by Parliament, gives ministers the powers to disregard sections of the Human Rights Act.

Former home secretary Suella Braverman (Maria Unger/UK Parliament/PA)

But it does not go as far as providing powers to dismiss the European Convention on Human Rights, as hardliners including sacked home secretary Suella Braverman have demanded.

Mrs Bravermans allies made clear that the legislation is fatally flawed, indicating that she believes it will quickly lead the Tories into electoral oblivion.

Mr Sunak reportedly told Conservative backbenchers at the 1922 Committee shortly before Mr Jenricks resignation became apparent that they must unite or die.

The immigration minister had been conspicuously absent during a statement to the Commons on the new legislation by James Cleverly, who has been Home Secretary for less than a month.

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Shortly after Mr Cleverly confirmed the resignation of the minister from his department, Mr Jenrick published his departure letter to the Prime Minister on social media.

He said he was grateful for Mr Sunak moving towards his position on the legislation, but added he does not believe it provides us with the best possible chance of success.

A Bill of the kind you are proposing is a triumph of hope over experience, he wrote.

The stakes for the country are too high for us not to pursue the stronger protections required to end the merry-go-round of legal challenges which risk paralysing the scheme and negating its intended deterrent.

Having supported Mr Sunak in both of last years Tory leadership contests, Mr Jenrick reminded him that they have been friends for a long time, but said they must do whatever it takes to stop small boats crossing the Channel.

This emergency legislation is the last opportunity to prove this, but in its current drafting it does not go far enough, he added.

Mr Sunak wrote back to Mr Jenrick to tell him his resignation was disappointing.

I fear that your departure is based on a fundamental misunderstanding of the situation.

It is our experience that gives us confidence that this will work, Mr Sunak said.

If we were to oust the courts entirely, we would collapse the entire scheme.

The Prime Minister pointed to Rwandas claim that they would not accept the UK breaching international law, adding: There would be no point in passing a law that would leave us with nowhere to send people to.

Mr Cleverly wrote on the front page of the legislation that he cannot guarantee that it is compatible with the European Convention on Human Rights.

The Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill states that it is the judgment of Parliament that the Republic of Rwanda is a safe country.

The Bill says that every decision-maker  specifically mentioning the courts  must conclusively treat the Republic of Rwanda as a safe country.

It states that ministers will decide whether to ignore interim measures issued by the European Court of Human Rights which have previously scuppered flights.

Combined with the new legally binding treaty brokered with Rwanda, the Government hopes they can get the policy first announced in April last year off the ground.

The publication of the legislation came after Mrs Braverman warned the Tories face electoral oblivion in a matter of months if the legislation introduced is destined to fail.

The sacked home secretary, who commands support on the partys right, said the Bill must contain powers to override the European Convention on Human Rights and all other international law.

But complying with her demands would have left Mr Sunak facing other possible ministerial resignations, an outcry from his MPs from the more centrist One Nation faction and an even rougher ride for the Bill through the House of Lords.

The Tory left has urged ministers to ensure the country follows rule of law rather than trying to undermine the oversight of the Strasbourg court.

A source close to Mrs Braverman quickly made clear that the Bill doesnt come close to meeting her tests, arguing asylum seekers will still be able to make human rights appeals against removals.

It is fatally flawed, the ally said.

It will be bogged down in the courts for months and months. And it wont stop the boats. It is a further betrayal of Tory voters and the decent patriotic majority who want to see this insanity brought to an end.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer called the Rwanda deal a gimmick at PMQs (House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA)

The One Nation grouping, however, cautiously welcomed that the draft legislation will continue to meet the UKs international commitments which uphold the rule of law.

The right-wing European Research Group (ERG) will assemble its so-called star chamber of lawyers to scrutinise the legislation before the Commons vote.

Rwandas foreign affairs minister Vincent Biruta argued that Kigali would have walked out of the deal, which has already seen the UK hand over 140 million, if the Government had sought to break international law.

Without lawful behaviour by the UK, Rwanda would not be able to continue with the Migration and Economic Development Partnership, he said.
Boris Johnson appeared emotional as he described the tragic, tragic year of 2020 (PA)

Here are the key points from Wednesdays evidence so far:

 An apology backfires with protesters

In opening remarks to the inquiry, Mr Johnson said he was sorry for the loss and the pain suffered by Covid victims but four people were removed from the hearing room after they held up signs reading: The Dead cant hear your apologies.

Boris Johnson arrives to give evidence to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry at Dorland House in London (PA)

 Mr Johnson accepts personal responsibility for all decisions

The former PM acknowledged that mistakes were unquestionably made by his administration in its response to the pandemic, and said he took full responsibility for all the choices made.

 He should have twigged sooner

Mr Johnson admitted ministers should have twigged much sooner that there was a need for action but argued Whitehall more broadly had underestimated the scale of the challenge.

Lobby Akinnola holds a press conference alongside protesters outside the UK Covid-19 Inquiry (PA)

 The former PM defends his No 10 from toxic culture claims

The ex-PM admitted that his top team was male-dominated but played down claims of a dysfunctional work environment, suggesting that complacency and a lack of scrutiny would have been worse than some of the strongly worded criticism unveiled in WhatsApps shared between key figures.

 PM only read Sage minutes once or twice

Mr Johnson said he may have only read the minutes of hundreds of meetings held by the committee of scientists advising the government on Covid once or twice. He said he was provided with summaries but in hindsight hearing the full discussion might have been valuable.

 He denies taking a long holiday in early stages of Covid

Mr Johnson told the inquiry he did not take a long break in February half-term 2020 and was still working.

 He defends not chairing Cobra meetings in early 2020

The former PM was questioned about whether five Cobra meetings chaired by then health secretary Matt Hancock should have suggested the situation was serious enough to require his direct involvement. He said that the virus, between January and February that year, had been a cloud on the horizon and it was unclear whether it would become a typhoon.

 His recollection of tragic, tragic year brings up emotions

Mr Johnson looked on the verge of tears as he described 2020 as a tragic, tragic year.

 He defends the decision to impose Englands first lockdown on March 23 2020

Faced with rising cases and uncertainty about the impact of other measures, he no longer had the luxury of waiting, he said. It was over.

 He regrets describing long Covid as bollocks

A document from October 2020 including Boris Johnsons hand written comment on long Covid (UK Covid-19 Inquiry/PA)

A document from October 2020 described symptoms of the condition, beside which Mr Johnson wrote bollocks and this is Gulf War syndrome stuff.

I regret very much using that language and I should have thought about the possibility of future publication, the former prime minister said.

 It was optically wrong to hold meetings with the leaders of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

The then-prime minister thought it would risk being a mini EU, giving equal status to the leaders of the devolved administrations, although he said he would have liked them to have delivered a more united UK-wide message during the fight against Covid.

 Mr Johnson personally apologises to former official Helen MacNamara

Former deputy cabinet secretary Helen MacNamara (UK Covid-19 Inquiry/PA)

She was the subject of an expletive-laden message to Mr Johnson from his ex-adviser Dominic Cummings, who describing the then-deputy cabinet secretary as a c*** who must be out of our hair.

I dont remember seeing it at the time but I must have seen it because I was on the group, Mr Johnson said. I have rung Helen MacNamara to apologise to her for not having called it out.

 Mr Johnson defends Matt Hancock, saying he did a good job in difficult circumstances

He said he had considered moving the then-health secretary as he came under fire in 2020 but instead backed him, partly because there was no guarantee he would be trading up with a replacement minister.
Members of the public shelter from the rain along the Strand in London on December 5 (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Severe weather warnings have been issued across the UK as heavy rain is expected to continue falling on saturated ground.

The Met Office has warned that journey times are likely to be made longer due to spray and flooding on roads, while bus and train services will probably be affected.

It is also likely that some homes and business will experience flooding as up to 80mm of rain falls in some parts of the west of the UK.

Neil Armstrong, chief forecaster at the Met Office, said: After a relatively calm day on Wednesday, wet and windy weather will move in from the west on Wednesday night.

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Low pressure will drive several days of unsettled conditions with heavy rainfall the main concern.

We have issued a number of severe weather warnings for rain across the UK, as much as 80mm of rain could fall in some areas of the west, particularly higher ground.

Higher ground in eastern Scotland could even see up to 100mm of rain. Our warnings are likely to be updated so keep up to date with the Met Office forecast.

The rain will be falling on already very wet ground and where there is still lying snow in the north-west of England and parts of Scotland, snow melt will exacerbate the risk of flooding.

It is important to check for flood warnings in your area issued by your local environment agency.

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Yellow weather warnings have been issued for Thursday in the South West and south Wales, the Midlands, parts of Northern England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The Met Office said areas of low pressure will bring wet and windy conditions, displacing the cold weather that has seen frosts, snow and ice in some regions.

It is expected that the highest rain totals will be focused in western parts of the UK over the next few days, falling on already sodden ground.

A second low pressure will see heavy rain through Thursday and further weather fronts during Friday and Saturday morning.

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There will then be a brief calmer spell in the southern half of the UK as a ridge of higher pressure moves in through Saturday afternoon, though showery rain will continue in the north, the Met Office said.

Another area of low pressure could move close to Northern Ireland on Sunday, bringing strong winds and further spells of rain.

There are currently 22 flood warnings and 111 flood alerts in place across England.

In Wales, there is one flood alert for South Pembrokeshire. In Scotland, there are flood alerts for Fife, Tayside, Dumfries and Galloway, Dundee and Angus, and Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City.

RAC Breakdown spokesman Simon Williams urged drivers to be wary of flooded roads.

Drivers in the worst-affected areas will need to be on their guard for floods and standing water, he said.

Anyone tempted to drive through water that is too deep for their vehicle is risking their safety and a very expensive repair bill near to Christmas or, worse still, the prospect of an insurance write-off.

The best advice is to turn around and go another way if theres any doubt about the waters depth.

From a road safety perspective, we urge drivers to slow down and leave plenty of stopping distance behind the vehicle in front.

Its also important to remember the risk of losing control due to aquaplaning, which is what happens when a layer of water gets between the tyres and the road surface, making it impossible to steer, brake or accelerate.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is under pressure from different wings of the party over Rwanda (Daniel Leal/PA)

Rishi Sunak is under pressure from all wings of his party as Tory MPs await the promised Rwanda legislation set to accompany the newly signed treaty with Kigali.

Designed to designate Rwanda a safe destination and address the concerns that saw the Supreme Court deem the Governments flagship asylum policy unlawful, the Bill could be published in a matter of days.

But its likely contents have already divided Tory MPs, with fears that too radical an approach could prompt ministerial resignations.

Centrist MPs have pushed the Prime Minister to respect the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and other international obligations, but right-wingers want him to take a hardline stance on the role of the European Court of Human Rights and human rights law to get flights off the ground as soon as possible.

According to The Times, Mr Sunak has rejected calls for the UK to opt out of or exclude the ECHR in asylum cases but may be considering disapplying parts of the Human Rights Act  which gives domestic legal effect to the ECHR  to prevent court challenges to deportation flights.

Members of the right-wing European Research Group (ERG), as well as MPs from the Common Sense and New Conservative groupings, met in Parliament on Tuesday hours after Home Secretary James Cleverly celebrated the treaty agreement.

The groups so-called star chamber of lawyers are set to scrutinise the legislation before MPs vote on it, as ERG chairman Mark Francois warned that MPs would not be bounced into backing the legislation without the time to assess it.

But Tory MPs from the One Nation faction have urged ministers to ensure the country follows rule of law rather than trying to undermine the oversight of the Strasbourg court.

Former cabinet minister Damian Green said he did not want to see tinkering with UK obligations under the ECHR or the Refugee Convention but to get on with the Rwanda plan.

He warned that it would be the wrong thing for this country to do, bad for our international reputation, while also making it pretty much impossible for any Bill to make it through the House of Lords.

Damian Green (Yui Mok/PA)

The UKs top court last month blocked the Rwanda policy over concerns that genuine refugees could be wrongly sent back to their countries of origin where they would face persecution.

In an attempt to rectify this, the new treaty means British and Commonwealth judges will preside over a newly established appeals process within Rwandas high court for exceptional cases.

Another key measure is a commitment that no-one will be removed by Rwanda to any other country except the UK.

Experts from the UK will also be seconded to Rwanda to assist with the processing of asylum decisions.

People sent to Rwanda will have free legal assistance funded by the taxpayer throughout the process.

Mr Cleverly said no new money was directly connected to the document after disputed reports of a 15 million top-up payment, but did not rule out additional costs in the future.

After signing the deal with Mr Cleverly, Rwandas foreign affairs minister Vincent Biruta expressed his frustration at the judgment by some of the UKs top justices.

He suggested internal UK politics may have played a role and said his country has been unfairly treated by the courts, international organisations and the media.
Robert Jenrick has resigned as immigration minster in a blow to Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks grip on the Conservative Party.

There had been speculation that Mr Jenricks response to the Governments latest efforts to get its plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda up and running would act as a bellwether for others on the right of the Tory party.

Walking away from his role as immigration minister so soon after the Government announced its latest proposals, Mr Jenrick has created a difficult situation for a PM seeking to assure his party and potential voters that the plan is credible.

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Mr Jenrick was after all given the job in the Home Office by Mr Sunak little more than a year ago, in October 2022.

Mr Jenrick told the Prime Minister on Wednesday evening that his new draft legislation aimed at stopping small boat crossings does not go far enough and is a triumph of hope over experience.

Speculation over his resignation had reached fever pitch when Mr Jenrick was not in the Commons to hear James Cleverly make the case for the proposals.

Mr Jenricks absence spoke almost as loudly as the Labour MPs who shouted heckles to Mr Cleverly over the whereabouts of his immigration minister while the Home Secretary made his statement.

Reports in recent weeks suggested Mr Jenrick wanted to go further in tackling both legal and illegal migration than Mr Cleverly was prepared to go, and he had used his platform as immigration minister to deliver tough rhetoric on the need to crack down on both.

Now released from the constraints of collective responsibility, Mr Jenricks criticisms of the Governments plans have spilled out into the open.

Mr Jenrick has served in Government under four prime ministers in four different roles since first becoming a minister in 2018.

The 41-year-old father-of-three, who grew up in Shropshire, is a trained solicitor who worked in corporate law at leading international law firms in London and Moscow.

He then turned his attentions to business, working in senior commercial management at the world-famous global art firm Christies.

Wolverhampton-born, Mr Jenrick entered the Commons as MP for Newark in Nottinghamshire in a 2014 by-election.

Theresa May promoted him to a Treasury minister in January 2018.

Ms Mays demise saw him climb higher, with Boris Johnson promoting him to secretary of state for housing, communities and local government when the former premier took office in July 2019.

But his time around the cabinet table ended in controversy, when he was sacked after a string of high-profile and damaging accusations.

Robert Jenrick (left) during his time in the Treasury (David Mirzoeff/PA)

His departure followed the unlawful approval of a Tory donors housing development and eyebrow-raising journeys during lockdown.

Mr Johnson stuck by Mr Jenrick despite anger over his approval of media mogul Richard Desmonds 1,500-home Westferry Printworks development in east London.

The permission came the day before a new council community levy would have cost Mr Desmonds company an extra 40 million.

Mr Jenrick later had to quash his own approval, conceding the decision was unlawful due to apparent bias.

There was also criticism over Mr Jenricks decision to travel 150 miles from his London property to his Herefordshire home, and then journeying for more than an hour to visit his parents in Shropshire while the country was in Covid lockdown.

The role also saw him take on another thorny issue where a misstep can draw the ire of the Tory backbenches  planning reform.

With controversies mounting, and his popularity fraying with Tory MPs who objected to what they feared would be too much housebuilding in the wrong place, a reshuffle saw Mr Jenrick shown the door.

The arrival of Liz Truss in Number 10 saw Mr Jenrick return to Government for a short stint in the Department of Health.

Then in October 2022, with Rishi Sunak taking the top job, Mr Jenrick was appointed immigration minister.

The role was never going to be an easy task, with many in the Tory party and beyond calling for the Government to reduce the number of people crossing the English Channel in small boats and while also reducing legal migration.

A commitment to stop the boats was one of Mr Sunaks five pledges at the start of year, putting Mr Jenricks brief right at the top of the Governments priorities.

But despite Mr Sunaks stated commitment to do everything it takes to make the Rwanda scheme operational, Mr Jenricks resignation letter suggests he did not believe the Prime Minister was prepared to go far enough.

Mr Jenrick said he had been pushing for the strongest possible piece of emergency legislation, but wrote on social media that had could not continue in post when I have such strong disagreements with the direction of the Governments policy on immigration.
Kate Forbes was narrowly beaten by Humza Yousaf to the SNP leadership earlier this year (Paul Campbell/PA)

The SNP should drop its powersharing agreement with the Scottish Greens and govern as a minority party at Holyrood, Kate Forbes has said.

The former SNP leadership contender blamed the Greens policies for the Scottish Government losing support, saying they want to over-regulate rural communities.

Ms Forbes has previously said the SNP should check in with its members on the Bute House Agreement, the deal which led to the smaller pro-independence party entering government after the last Holyrood election.

But she went further in an interview with the New Statesman, saying the deal should be repealed and the SNP should operate again as a one-party minority government.

Ms Forbes was narrowly defeated by Humza Yousaf in the SNP leadership contest earlier this year.

Humza Yousaf continued the powersharing deal with the Greens when he took over in Bute House (Andrew Milligan/PA)

He continued the powersharing agreement, which brought Green co-leaders Patrick Harvie and Lorna Slater into government as ministers.

Ms Forbes, the MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, told the New Statesman her partys momentum has stalled and bold change is needed.

She said: We were elected on a SNP manifesto, not a Green Party manifesto or the Bute House Agreement.

Nearly all the issues that have lost us support in the last year are found in the Bute House Agreement and not in the SNP manifesto.

I see it particularly acutely with the economy and in rural Scotland, as the Greens appear to want to over-regulate rural communities out of existence and hike taxes to a rate that will ultimately reduce public revenue.

That is despite the cost-of-living crisis hitting our economy and the rural sector particularly hard.

Ms Forbes said the SNP needs bold action to regain its momentum (Jane Barlow/PA)

She said past SNP governments had managed to speak for the fisherman in Buchan as well as the working mum in Glasgow, and she called for a return to that approach.

Ms Forbes also discussed the reaction to her conservative religious views during the SNP leadership contest.

A backlash to comments she made about same-sex marriage saw some of her early backers withdraw their support in the race.

The MSP said: I dont think that I was indulging culture wars or appealing to a particular base: I was genuinely answering honestly, and that isnt as neatly characterised as perhaps a politician that is trying to be nasty for nastinesss sake.

She said many in public life are now living in fear of being cancelled or receiving abuse, leading to them distorting their real views.

Asked if she would consider another run at the SNP leadership, she said she would only consider standing if I felt like I was the right kind of leader for the party and the country at that point in time.

Responding to Ms Forbes comments, an SNP spokesman said: Only a matter of months ago, SNP members voted to elect Humza Yousaf as SNP leader and First Minister after he stood on a platform endorsing the Scottish Governments co-operation agreement, which 95% of party members voted to support.

The Bute House Agreement has already delivered vital steps to tackle climate change, a better deal for tenants, and action to reduce poverty and inequality  such as an increase to the Scottish Child Payment and free bus travel for under-22s.

And the SNP is fully focused on taking action to support households through the cost-of-living crisis by, for example, freezing council tax.

A spokesman for the Scottish Greens said: Kate Forbes lost the leadership contest for her party which, some months later, continues to be a considerable source of relief for all those who, like the majority of SNP members and ourselves, believe in a progressive, inclusive form of politics working on behalf of everyone in Scotland.

Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy said: From the reckless plans to impose Highly Protected Marine Areas on coastal communities, to the flawed gender self-ID Bill, and the rowing back on major road upgrades, the Greens bizarre policies are arrogantly out-of-touch with the real priorities of Scotland.

Kate Forbes is clearly all too happy to shout from the sidelines but she needs to start backing up her rhetoric.

She failed to step up and support our motion of no confidence in Lorna Slater, who should have been sacked for her shambolic deposit return scheme.

Until she stops toeing the party line in crucial parliamentary votes, these are empty words.
Juanita Castro, the sister of Cuban rulers Fidel and Raul Castro, who worked with the CIA against their communist government, has died in Miami aged 90.

Florida had been her home since shortly after fleeing the island nearly 60 years ago.

Journalist Maria Antonieta Collins, who co-wrote Juanita Castros 2009 book, Fidel And Raul, My Brothers. The Secret History, wrote on Instagram that she died on Monday.

Juanita Castro was ahead of us on the path of life and death, exceptional woman, tireless fighter for the cause of her Cuba that I love so much, Ms Collins wrote.

The Cuban government and media had not mentioned her death as of Wednesday.

In her book, Juanita Castro, a staunch anti-communist, wrote that she began collaborating with the CIA shortly after the United States botched the Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961.

She had originally supported her older brothers efforts to overthrow dictator Fulgencio Batista, raising money and buying weapons.

She became disillusioned when Fidel Castro became a hard-line communist after taking power in 1959 and pushed those who disagreed out of his government.

Juanita Castro in Miami in 2006 (Alan Diaz/AP)

When her home in Cuba became a sanctuary for anti-communists in the early 1960s, Fidel Castro warned his sister not to get involved with the gusanos, or worms as the government called those who opposed the revolution.

She said in her book that it was the wife of Brazils ambassador to Cuba who persuaded her to meet a CIA officer during a 1961 trip to Mexico City.

She said she told the agent that she did not want any money, and would not support any violence against her brothers or others.

She said the CIA used her to smuggle messages, documents and money back into Cuba hidden inside tinned goods.

They communicated with her via shortwave radio, playing a waltz and a song from the opera Madame Butterfly as signals that her handlers had a message for her.

She remained on the island while their mother was alive, believing that protected her from Fidels full wrath.

My brothers could ignore what I did or appear to ignore it so as not to hurt my mum, but that didnt mean I didnt have problems, she wrote.

After their mother died in 1963, everything was becoming more dangerously complicated.

Castro fled Cuba the following year, after Raul helped her get a visa to Mexico. She never saw her brothers again.

I cannot longer remain indifferent to what is happening in my country, she told reporters in Mexico.

My brothers Fidel and Raul have made it an enormous prison surrounded by water. The people are nailed to a cross of torment imposed by international Communism.

Because her work for the CIA had been clandestine and not publicly known, many Cuban exiles feared she was a communist spy when she arrived in the US a year later.

She later helped found a CIA-backed non-profit organisation that worked against the Castro government.

She eventually settled into a quiet life in Miami, where she ran a Little Havana pharmacy and became a respected member of the Cuban-American community. She became a US citizen in 1984.

Fidel Castro ruled Cuba until 2008, when he turned power over to Raul, who had been his second-in-command. Raul Castro then spent a decade as Cubas leader.

When Fidels serious health problems in 2006 led to street celebrations in Little Havana, she took no joy. He was still her brother, even though she fought against his government.

In the same way that people are demonstrating and celebrating, Im showing sadness. I respect the position of everyone who feels happy about his health problems, but they have to respect me also, she told The Associated Press.

Its my family. Its my brothers. It doesnt matter. We are separated for political reasons, ideological reasons, but thats it.

Fidel Castro died in 2016 aged 90, while Raul, 92, is living in retirement. The eldest brother, Ramon, died in 2016 aged 91.
Paul Whelan, a former US Marine who was arrested for alleged spying (Sofia Sandurskaya, Moscow News Agency photo via AP, File)

The Biden administration has made a new and significant offer aimed at securing the release of American detainees Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich  but Russia has rejected the offer, the State Department said.

Spokesman Matthew Miller did not reveal the details of the offer nor why Russia had turned it down, but the revelation of the proposal was a fresh indication that Washington is continuing to try to negotiate with Moscow to get both men home.

This was a new proposal, in recent weeks. It was a significant proposal, Mr Miller said.

And it was rejected by the Russians but it does not, it will not deter us from continuing to do everything we can to try and bring both of them home.

Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich (Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP)

The US government has declared both Mr Whelan and Mr Gershkovich to be wrongfully detained.

Mr Whelan, a corporate security executive from Michigan, has been jailed in Russia since his December 2018 arrest on espionage-related charges that both he and the US government dispute. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison.

Mr Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter, was detained in March while on a reporting trip to the Russian city of Yekaterinburg, about 1,200 miles east of Moscow.

Mr Gershkovich and the Journal deny the allegations, and Russian authorities have not detailed any evidence to support the espionage charges. A Russian court last week extended the detention until January 30.

They never should have been arrested in the first place. They should be released immediately, Mr Miller said.

But we have made a number of proposals and including a substantial one in recent weeks and we will continue to work every day to bring Evan and Paul Whelan home. There is no prior higher priority for the Secretary of State. There is no higher priority for the president.

In July 2022, Secretary of State Antony Blinken revealed that the US had made a substantial proposal to Moscow to get home WNBA star Brittney Griner and Mr Whelan.

Ms Griner was ultimately released in December in a prisoner swap with notorious Russian arms trafficker Viktor Bout, but Mr Whelan was not part of the deal.
A man has been rescued after nearly a week trapped in the mine (AP)

A man has been pulled alive out of a Zambian mine nearly a week after dozens of miners were trapped under landslides caused by heavy rain, rescuers said.

A statement by Zambias disaster management and mitigation unit said the 49-year-old survivor was rescued on Tuesday night.

He told rescuers that he had been struggling for five days to find a way out of one of the collapsed tunnels at the open-pit copper mine near the city of Chingola, around 250 miles north of the capital, Lusaka.

A body was also recovered a few hours after the miners rescue but was yet to be identified, the statement added.

Dozens of people are feared missing (AP)

Zambian authorities have differed on exactly how many miners they believe were trapped when tunnels they were digging late last Thursday collapsed on them.

Government officials have said there were more than 30 miners trapped underground, while the district commissioner of the area said there were at least 36.

Zambia mines minister Paul Kabuswe said 25 families in the region have come forward to report missing relatives.

President Hakainde Hichilema visited the site of the disaster on Tuesday and said he hoped that there were survivors.

A rescuer said earlier in the week that they had heard multiple voices coming from under the rubble at one of the tunnel sites.

Rescuers say they have been working constantly since last Friday to clear debris and pump water out of the area where the tunnels are.
He tackled the relationship between Ian Paisley and Martin McGuinness in The Journey, and has published a series of popular novels.

But for his latest screenplay hes tackling one of the worlds best-known dictators  and with Al Pacino in a starring role, its sure to be a hit.

Killing Castro focuses on the life of Cuban leader Fidel Castro, the man who defied the United States on its doorstep.

Read more NI screenwriter Colin Bateman lands dream Al Pacino casting in new film

Its all a long way from Batemans early days working the streets of Bangor in search of stories for his local newspaper The Spectator.

Set after the Cuban revolution of 1959 that saw the overthrow of the US-backed Batista military junta, the world gazed on as Castro visited New York to address the United Nations.

Subsequent events brought humanity to the brink of nuclear war during the Cuban missile crisis.

Bateman and co-writers Leon Hendrix and Thomas DeGrezia can sit back, light a big cigar and reflect on a job well done.
Edgar Graham was murdered in broad daylight at Queens University on 7 December 1983. A law lecturer and unionist politician, Sam McBride examines his life and legacy, and the claims that a fellow law lecturer set him up for the gunmen

Edgar Graham didnt stand a chance. A gunman approached him from behind, shooting him dead just yards from the law faculty at Queens University where he worked.

At just 29, he was one of the most outstanding politicians the Ulster Unionist Party had ever produced and overwhelmingly likely to be a future party leader.

How would he have changed Northern Ireland if he had gone on to lead unionism?

The IRA immediately admitted responsibility for his murder, but why was he singled out?

And Sam McBride tracks down a fellow law lecturer accused of helping the IRA to target Edgar. He hears his first direct comments on the accusations in the 40 years since the killing.

The impact of the IRA murder of Edgar Graham

After 40 years, Dermot Nesbitt returns to where Edgar Graham was murdered beside him
This handout photo taken on Dec. 4, 2023 by the National Search and Rescue Agency shows rescuers evacuating one of the victims from the slopes of Mount Marapi in West Sumatra.

Updated at 11:15 a.m. ET on 2023-12-06

The death toll from the eruption of Mount Marapi in Indonesias West Sumatra province has risen to 23 people killed, officials said Wednesday.

Marapi, one of the most active volcanoes in the country, spewed hot ash and gas thousands of meters into the sky on Sunday, engulfing dozens of people who were hiking near the crater.

Abdul Malik, the head of the search and rescue office in Padang, said 74 victims had been evacuated, while one was still unaccounted for.

A team of about 300 people was still searching for people who might have been on the mountain at the time of the eruption, but not registered, said the West Sumatra police chief, Suharyono, who goes by one name.

Rescuers have carried the victims of the eruption down the mountain in body bags, after which they have been identified by a specialist team from the West Sumatra police at a hospital in Bukittinggi, a city near the volcano.

Lisda Cancer, the head of the medical and health division of the provincial police, said the identification process was done through DNA testing, fingerprints and dental records.

We are still waiting for [the possibility of] other victims. The report we received, the evacuation team has moved down, Lisda said.

Volcanic ash rain from Marapis eruption still affected several regencies in West Sumatra on Wednesday, prompting local authorities to advise residents to reduce outdoor activities and wear masks, the National Disaster Management Agency said in a statement.

Bambang Wasito, the head of the local disaster management agency, said none of the residents in the affected areas had evacuated, but authorities had activated and prepared health centers in nearby clinics.

The district government also asked residents to avoid activities within a 3-kilometer radius from the crater peak, as the volcanos alert level remained at level II.

Mount Marapi, which is not to be confused with the similarly named Mount Merapi in Central Java, is one of the 129 active volcanoes in Indonesia, a vast archipelago of more than 17,000 islands that lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a belt of seismic activity around the oceans rim.

The volcano, which has a height of 2,891 meters (9,485 feet), last erupted in 2018, injuring four people. Its deadliest eruption was in 1979, when it killed at least 60 people.
Human rights activists and observers on Wednesday criticized a plan by the Indonesian government to return nearly 1,500 Rohingya to their home country of Myanmar, where they have faced persecution and violence.

The Indonesian government announced the plan a day earlier without giving a deportation date, saying Aceh province, where boats carrying Rohingya mostly land, was running out of space and money. In addition, residents were rejecting the foreigners presence.

Weve been lending a helping hand, and now were overwhelmed, said Mohammad Mahfud MD, the coordinating minister for political, legal and security affairs. We will discuss how to return them to their country through the U.N. I will lead the meeting.

The ministry reported that 1,487 Rohingya were in Indonesia, according to media reports. President Joko Jokwoi Widodo had tasked the minister with leading government efforts to deal with the issue.

Vice President Maruf Amin, however, proposed a different solution: Relocate the Rohingya to an island near Singapore where the Indonesian government had sheltered Vietnamese refugees who escaped their country in the 1980s and 1990s.

Nadine Sherani, an activist with KonstraS, a Jakarta-based human rights group, said that by sending the Rohingya to Myanmar they could be exposed to atrocities linked to the junta, which seized power in a military coup in February 2021.

That step will transfer them to the hell they have experienced before, Nadine told BenarNews.

Does the government think about the long-term impact of repatriation? The main actor of violence in Myanmar is the junta. That is the reason they left the country, she said.

The Rohingya are one of the worlds most oppressed stateless people, according to the United Nations. They have been denied citizenship and basic rights by the Myanmar government, which considers them illegal immigrants from neighboring Bangladesh.

Following a military offensive in Myanmars Rakhine state in 2017 that the U.N. described as a textbook example of ethnic cleansing, about 740,000 Rohingya fled across the border to Bangladesh.

Seeking to escape difficult living conditions in Bangladesh refugee camps in and around Coxs Bazar district, thousands of Rohingya have risked their lives on perilous sea journeys to reach Indonesia and other destinations.

On Wednesday, police in Coxs Bazar reported that four Rohingya had been killed within 24 hours during gunfights between members of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army and the Arakan Solidarity Organization gangs in the Ukhia refugee camp.

Those killings brought the death toll to 10 in the sprawling Rohingya camps over the last 15 days and a total of 186 fatalities linked to violence in the camps since 2017.

Meanwhile in Aceh province, the Rohingya presence has caused resentment and hostility from some locals who have accused them of being a burden and a nuisance.

On Nov. 16, a boat carrying 256 Rohingya was initially rejected by at least two groups of villagers in Aceh but was finally allowed to land after being stranded for three days. Another boat carrying more than 100 Rohingya landed on Sabang island on Dec. 2 after locals threatened to push it back to sea.

Urgent appeal

Since then, UNHCR, the U.N. Refugee Agency, issued an urgent appeal to all countries in the region, particularly those in the area surrounding the Andaman Sea, to swiftly deploy their full search and rescue capacities in response to reported vessels in distress with hundreds of Rohingya at risk of perishing.

In its statement issued on Saturday, UNHCR said it was concerned that Rohingya on two boats would run out of food and water. [T]here is a significant risk of fatalities in the coming days if people are not rescued and disembarked to safety.

Mahfud MD said Indonesia had shown compassion by taking in the Rohingya even though it was not a party to the U.N refugee convention, an international treaty that defines rights and obligations of refugees and host countries.

We could have turned them down flat. But we also have a heart. They could die at sea if no one wants them, he said.

Vietnamese children sit aboard an Indonesian Navy ship at Galang island as they wait to be repatriated from the islands refugee camp, June 26, 1996. [Reuters]

Maruf, the vice president, suggested the Rohingya be settled temporarily on the island near Singapore.

We used Galang island for Vietnamese refugees in the past. We will discuss it again. I think the government must take action, Maruf said on Tuesday.

Galang housed about 250,000 Vietnamese refugees, known as boat people, from 1979 to 1996. The UNHCR built healthcare facilities, schools, places of worship and cemeteries.

Maruf said the government could not turn away the Rohingya, but also had to consider local peoples objections and the possibility of more refugees arriving.

Angga Reynaldi Putra, of Suaka, a Jakarta-based NGO that advocates for the rights of refugees, said Indonesia was bound by the principle of non-refoulement  or the forced return of refugees to their home countries  because it had ratified the anti-torture convention through a law in 1998.

The anti-torture convention ratified by Indonesia also states that there is an obligation to prevent a person from returning to a situation where he or she experiences torture, Angga told BenarNews.

He added that Indonesia issued a presidential regulation in 2016, which mandates providing assistance and protection for refugees in coordination with the regional government, the International Organization for Migration and the immigration office.

Angga warned that putting Rohingya on Galang island could limit their access to basic rights, such as health and education.

If we consider human rights, there is a right to freedom of movement. Being placed on a certain island, their movement would be restricted, he said.

Women and children

Mitra Salima Suryono, a UNHCR spokeswoman in Indonesia, said she hoped the issue could be resolved humanely.

We are optimistic and hope to see the same strong spirit of solidarity and humanity as before, Mitra said.

She said the Rohingya who arrived in Aceh a few days ago had endured difficult conditions after traveling for several days or weeks.

Because of their long sea journey, many of them were exhausted and needed help such as food, drinks, clean water, sanitation and medicine when they arrived, she said, adding that most of the Rohingya were children and women.

Adriana Elizabeth, a researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency, a government institution, said sending the Rohingya back to their home country should be a last resort.

The Myanmar government does not recognize them. Their citizenship status is also unclear, Adriana told BenarNews.

She said the best step for Indonesia was to press Myanmar to acknowledge the refugees plight.

The presence of the Rohingya in several regions in Indonesia has created new problems in the country, she said.

Abdur Rahman in Coxs Bazar, Bangladesh, contributed to this report.
A number is spray painted on a house to mark it is among homes that will be demolished to make way for a China-backed rail line, in Kampung Desa Mukmin Warisan, a village in Gombak, Selangor state, Malaysia, Oct. 15, 2023.

Azimah and her husband scrimped and saved for years to buy their first home in Desa Mukmin Warisan, a village on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur.

But theyll soon have to vacate their house. In late November, the government shocked local residents when it notified them that they had only 20 days to leave, Azimah said.

Malaysias government plans to demolish their home and some 100 others in the village to clear land as part of a U.S. $16 billion rail project being built under Beijings Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

It truly doesnt make sense that we are given such short notice to vacate our homes, Azimah, 30, told BenarNews.

They are heartless for doing this to us.

The abrupt evictions are the latest controversy related to the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), a China-backed project bogged down by delays, cost overruns and allegations of corruption since it broke ground in 2017.

The manner in which the residents have been treated, analysts said, highlights the gaps in communication and engagement on how mega-projects are handled in Malaysia, particularly those under the BRI. The initiative is Beijings ambitious plan to build a network of global infrastructure and supply chains that would connect China to the rest of the world.

The lack of transparency and public engagement is rooted in the way the government treats these megaprojects  as huge acts of benevolence, by promising massive developments in rural Malaysia that will greatly benefit all, Benjamin Loh, a senior lecturer in media studies at Taylors University in Subang Jaya, Selangor, told BenarNews.

They serve as federal political selling points and everything in between is considered not in the public interest, said Loh, who in June published a research paper for Malaysias Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs on BRI projects and engagements with local communities where these projects are being built.

Loh said the process of displacing people to make way for a project should be made more transparent.

[H]ow they determine the amount being reimbursed, or justify the need for them to be relocated. This is why social impact assessments are so important, Loh said.

Equipment is seen on a site operated by the project contractor and builder, China Communication Construction Co., in Gombak Utara, Selangor, Malaysia, Oct. 15, 2023. [Iman Muttaqin Yusof/BenarNews]

Beijing-backed projects are particularly controversial  they are delayed, face graft allegations and accusations of opacity  because they get enmeshed in local politics, critics said.

In recent years, Chinas stringent controls on capital outflow have made it difficult for the country to fully fund via loans BRI projects it initially promised to back, said Oh Ei Sun, an analyst at Singapores Institute of International Affairs.

Direct negotiation and design-and-build projects typically would need some forms of [local] political backups, so it is only natural that politics are involved, Oh told BenarNews.

Political involvement often means a lack of transparency as happened in Azimahs village where a section of the railway is being built, said Sri Murniati Yusuf, chief operating officer of the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs, which promotes solutions for public policy challenges.

It is a matter of improving the governance when it comes to this, Sri told BenarNews.

The 655-km (414-mile) rail project, which will span the states of Selangor, Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan, was launched in August 2017.

The project was shelved in 2018 due to corruption allegations, but revived in 2019 with modifications and a cost reduction of 11 billion ringgit (U.S $2.37 billion), Prime Minister Anwar announced last December.

Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke told Parliament in September that the ECRL project was nearly 54% done and well-positioned for completion by 2027.

We will install a barricade

On Nov. 25, a BenarNews correspondent paid a return visit to the village in Gombak, which is a town in Selangor state, and attended the meeting during which residents were first informed that they would be evicted and have to vacate their homes by Dec. 15 to make way for ECRL project planning.

Officers from Selangors Department of the Director General of Lands and Mines (Federal) and a spokesperson from the contractor and builder, China Communications Construction (ECRL) Co., were also present at the meeting and declined to answer BenarNews questions on the short notice period for residents eviction. The departments role is to carry out the land acquisition process for federal projects.

BenarNews also reached out for comment to the office of the chief minister for Selangor state by phone and email, but did not receive a response.

The collective stance of the Desa Mukmin Warisan villagers  the rail section will be built on top of where the village now exists  is that they will refuse to move.

Former chair of the Desa Mukmin Warisan Residents Committee, Mohd. Najib Mokhtar, said members of the community would not budge an inch and would fight for their rights.

Now, before any heavy machinery enters our village and destroys our homes, we will install a barricade and request police assistance in this, he told BenarNews.

We just hope that our chief minister and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will hear our appeal on this issue because we dont have anywhere else to go, he said.

An aerial map of Desa Mukmin Warisan village shows the route of the section of the East Coast Rail Link that will be built over Kampung Desa Mukmin Warisan village in Selangor state, Malaysia. [Courtesy Malaysia Rail Link Plan dated July 2022]

Strategic for Beijings long-term interests

Meanwhile, one political analyst indicated that all this upheaval was occurring for a project that would benefit Beijings ambitions greatly.

It wouldnt give Malaysia healthy economic returns either, said the analyst, Collins Chong Yew Keat, from the University of Malaya.

The ECRLs cost benefit calculations have not been convincing and consistent in long-term best returns for the country [Malaysia], especially given the high costs both in [terms of financial drain] and in the potential implications in the geopolitical and security spheres, he told BenarNews.

Former Transport Minister We Wee Ka Siong disagreed.

The benefit that the ECRL project can generate is  the rapid economic development in the East Coast states when rail facilities are provided and the cost of cargo transportation from and to the East Coast is reduced by 40% - 50%, he wrote on his Facebook page in May.

This will increase the competitiveness of the East Coast states and create more new industries that are expected to generate income through taxes to the Government and then returned to the people.

However, the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia is of strategic for Beijings long term interests, both in serving the cause of its South China Sea ambitions and its Taiwan agenda, analyst Collins Chong said.

It accelerates future security calculations in complementing the Kunming-Kuala Lumpur railway project, he said.

[And] this will serve as the final missing piece in connecting the South China Sea through land routes, [as well as] connecting the ECRL with the future railway all the way to mainland China.
Ricardo Cano covers transportation for The San Francisco Chronicle. Before joining The Chronicle in 2021, he covered K-12 education at CalMatters based in Sacramento and at The Arizona Republic in Phoenix as the newspapers education reporter. He received his bachelors degree in journalism at Fresno State.

He can be reached at ricardo.cano@sfchronicle.com.
Papua New Guineas Prime Minister James Marape (left) speaks during a meeting at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders' Week in San Francisco, California, on November 16, 2023.

Papua New Guinea and Australia will sign a broad security cooperation agreement this week that includes an Australian police presence in the Pacific island country that suffers frequent ethnic conflicts.

The agreement will also reinforce the two countries mutual security interests in the Pacific and allow for the possible establishment of a regional police academy in Papua New Guinea, the island countrys Prime Minister James Marape said Tuesday.

The security arrangement is in the best interest of Papua New Guinea and also for Australia and its regional security interests, Marape said in a statement. Any Australian police in Papua New Guinea would work under the local polices chain of command, the statement said.

Stability for Papua New Guinea, which gained its independence from Australia in 1975, has remained elusive as it grapples with tribal violence and challenges such as corruption and lack of infrastructure.

Parts of the mountainous country, which makes up the western half of New Guinea island and shares a long border with Indonesia, have been largely outside central government control for decades. Its election last year was marred by deadly violence and lawlessness in highlands provinces is an ongoing threat to national security and economic development.

Australia and the United States have sought closer security and defense relations with Papua New Guinea, the most populous Pacific island nation, in response to Chinas inroads in the region.

China, over several decades, has become a substantial source of trade, infrastructure and aid for developing Pacific island countries as it seeks to isolate Taiwan diplomatically and build its own set of global institutions.

Last year, China signed a security pact with the Solomon Islands, alarming the U.S. and its allies such as Australia. The Solomons and Kiribati switched their diplomatic recognition to Beijing from Taiwan in 2019.

Marape said the agreement for closer security relations with Australia would be signed in the Australian capital Canberra on Thursday.

Australia and Papua New Guinea share common security interests, and such security arrangements are vital to maintaining law-and-order in the region, safeguarding economic and trading interests, Marape said.

Australias Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Marape had at the beginning of this year urged officials to complete negotiations by the end of April.

Papua New Guinea and the U.S. signed a defense cooperation agreement in May, which once ratified would give the U.S. military unrestricted access to six air and sea ports in the island nation. The U.S. would have criminal jurisdiction over American military personnel in Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guineas opposition leader has sought a Supreme Court review of the legality of the agreement, which critics say would impinge on the countrys sovereignty.

Marape said the agreement with Australia will extend to potential Australian support for Papua New Guineas Bomana Police Academy, which recruits and trains police cadets.

Papua New Guinea has one police officer for about every 1,800 people, nearly four times less than the level recommended by the United Nations to ensure law and order, according to a Griffith Asia Institute report released earlier this year.

The ratio of police to people has declined substantially in the past half century as Papua New Guineas population tripled to more than nine million, the report said.
In this file photo a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) is fired during a live fire exercise with Philippine and U.S. troops at the three-week joint military drills Salaknib in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija, Philippines, March 31, 2023.

The U.S. militarys purported plan to station intermediate-range missiles in Guam is likely to heighten concerns among some Pacific island countries of a new era of militarization of their region, analysts said.

The United States withdrew from a decades-old treaty with Russia in 2019 that prohibited use of ground-launched missiles with a range of 500-5,500 kilometers  a decision that potentially gives the U.S. more flexibility to respond to Chinas increased military strength, but also faces practical resistance from its allies in Asia.

Gen. Charles Flynn, commanding general for U.S. Army Pacific, told an international security forum in mid-November that the U.S. intends to deploy HIMARS, SM-6s, and Tomahawk missiles into the Indo Pacific  the U.S. term for an area spanning East Asia and the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

We intend to deploy that system into the region. Im not going to say where or when, Flynn said at the Halifax Security Forum, according to an emailed statement Tuesday from the U.S. Army.

The plans were highlighted by a Nikkei report on Dec. 3, which citing a U.S. army spokesman, said the deployment would occur in 2024. Reports by Rand Corporation and Carnegie Endowment for International Peace  U.S. think-tanks  say the American territory of Guam in the Pacific is the most likely location because of the reluctance of U.S. allies in Asia to host the missile systems.

Competition between China and the U.S. has been sharpest in East Asia due to possible flashpoints such as Taiwan  which China regards as a rebel province  and Beijings claims to the South China Sea that overlap with the claims of Southeast Asian nations.

Because of the intermediate-range forces treaty with Russia, the U.S. had previously faced a structural constraint on its military power in Asia, according to a report in October by Carnegie Endowment analyst Ankit Panda, while China did not.

Gen. Charles A. Flynn, commander of the U.S. Army for the Pacific region, meets Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi (not in the picture) in Tokyo, Sept. 9, 2022. [Reuters]

The Pacific has also become a focus for the rivalry as the U.S. responds to Chinas inroads with island states that were neglected by Washington over recent decades. U.S. interest in the Pacific was particularly galvanized after the Solomon Islands signed a security agreement with China early last year.

Tess Newton Cain, a Pacific analyst at Griffith Asia Institute, said the possibility of intermediate-range missiles in Guam is exactly an example of the militarization that some Pacific nations have been concerned about happening in their neighborhood.

The Pacific Islands Forum, a grouping of 18 nations that includes Australia and New Zealand, has already been concerned about the U.S. not accepting the principles of the 1989 Treaty of Rarotonga, which declared the South Pacific a nuclear-free zone, she said.

Australias increased closeness to the U.S, particularly via the AUKUS pact to equip Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, also has raised questions about its commitment to a nuclear-free region, Newton Cain said.

At their summit in November, leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum nations said they had welcomed a proposal from Fijis Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for the Pacific to be a zone of peace.

This moment is an opportunity for us islanders of the Pacific to shape a common destiny built around peace, Rabuka said, according to the island forums statement.

Henryk Szadziewski, a researcher at the University of Hawaiis Center for Pacific Island Studies, said the zone of peace proposal was a clear statement to redirect energies from a traditional security build up towards the non-traditional security concerns of livelihoods.

Civil society in Guam has been equally vocal about their land becoming a target due to the extensive U.S. military presence, he said.

However, leaders of North Pacific island nations that have close security and economic ties to the U.S. through compacts of free association have tended to be more concerned about a China threat, Szadziewski said.

Palaus President Surangel Whipps said in October he wants the U.S. to station Patriot air-defense missiles in his nation so it has the same protection from attack as Guam.

The U.S. is also building an over-the-horizon radar facility in Palau.
UN refugee agency calls for action to address climate change's effects on displaced population

Xinhua) 10:47, December 06, 2023

DUBAI, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on Monday called for immediate and collective action to confront climate change's profound effects on displaced populations and their host communities at the ongoing COP28 climate conference.

According to the UNHCR, the ripple effects of climate change intensify the hardship experienced by displaced communities throughout the world. The convergence of conflict and climate change critically impedes their ability to secure safety, essential resources, and sustainable livelihoods.

"The climate emergency is punishing displaced people three times. It tears them from their homes, it compounds their crisis in exile and destroys their homeland, preventing them from returning," said UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi. "This harsh reality highlights the way the climate emergency exacerbates displacement and human suffering."

Climate change reveals a stark injustice as those who have contributed least to environmental degradation suffer the most. In a concerning trend, nearly 60 percent of the world's displaced find themselves in countries most vulnerable to the impact of climate change, such as Syria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Afghanistan, and Myanmar, according to the UNHCR.

"As we convene at COP28, prioritizing the plight of the most vulnerable is imperative. Our collective commitment to climate action must involve robust measures to protect those affected," Grandi said.

"The inclusion of those most affected is vital to our discussions and responses. The experiences and solutions of displaced communities deserve a significant place in the global climate discussion," he added.

COP28, or the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, is being held in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, from Nov. 30 to Dec. 12.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Jessica Flores is a reporter for The San Francisco Chronicle. Before joining The Chronicle in 2021, she worked for USA Today, NPR affiliate KPCC and Curbed LA. Originally from L.A., she received her masters degree in journalism from the University of Southern California and a bachelors degree from Mount Saint Marys University in Los Angeles.

She can be reached at Jessica.Flores@sfchronicle.com.
Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Cloudy skies with afternoon snow showers. Temps nearly steady in the mid to upper 30s. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 40%..

Tonight

Mainly cloudy with snow showers around this evening. Low 32F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 40%.
BENNINGTON  With testing of residential wells for PFAS (per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in three Bennington neighborhoods nearly complete, the town is seeking financing to evaluate options for mitigating the contamination.

The Bennington Select Board has approved an application to the states Revolving Loan Program for water system improvements. The request is for $80,000 for feasibility and planning work in advance of steps expected to include extension of town water lines to contaminated properties.

Sampling of approximately 60 new homes with private water wells has occurred over the last month, Richard Spiese, an environmental analyst with the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, said this week. The DEC is waiting for the results of this sampling and compiling of the data before informing the public of the results of this work and determining next steps. This should be completed by the end of the year and the results will be reported to the public first of the year.

Prior meeting

Spiese and other state and local officials held a well-attended informational session here in late September to notify residents about the hazardous chemical contamination and possible responses to address it.

The current zone of concern was identified earlier this year after random testing statewide detected PFAS in two local wells. The wells were among about 500 in Vermont tested to evaluate the extent of PFAS contamination of water sources and the environment.

PFAS represents the thousands of related manmade chemicals and compounds used in a range of products, beginning in the late 1940s, including Teflon surfaces, tape products, fabric protection sprays and firefighting foam.

The substances, which only over the past decade were identified as a serious contaminate worldwide, are easily soluble in water or groundwater.

They are also referred to as forever chemicals because they break down in the environment very slowly over many years.

Zone of concern

The officials said the newly identified zone of concern is roughly within a half mile south of Route 9, or Main Street. Contamination levels found in half of an initial 24 follow-up well tests within the zone were above the states advisory level for drinking water.

Property owners with wells testing above the advisory level of 20 parts per trillion are being offered bottled water, and in some cases filtering units to remove the PFAS from their water.

Spiese said that includes about 15 properties thus far, adding that the number could climb.

Drinking contaminated water is considered the predominant way people develop elevated and long-lasting levels of PFAS chemicals in their blood, which in the case of PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) was associated through studies to kidney, testicular and other cancers, ulcerative colitis, thyroid diseases, pregnancy-induced hypertension and high cholesterol.

Levels of PFOA in the blood are known to decline slowly over many years, and continued medical monitoring is typically advised.

Funding sought

The town, which is working with MSK Engineers on the evaluation, previously extended town water to several hundred properties discovered in 2016 to have wells contaminated with the PFAS chemicals, primarily PFOA.

The Village of North Bennington also extended its water system lines to affected properties, and about 450 in all were tied in to the uncontaminated municipal water sources.

Two former ChemFab Corp. factories  on Northside Drive and Route 67A in North Bennington  were identified by DEC as the primary source of the pollution.

Spiese said this week that the DEC is continuing to investigate likely sources of the PFAS found in the recent well testing.

That may take some time, he said.

At the September meeting, Spiese said that no definitive source or sources of the PFAS detected south of Route 9 had been determined and no potentially responsible parties identified by the DEC.

He added that it appears the PFAS found recently has a different chemical makeup from the substances previously traced to materials used in ChemFab fiberglass fabric coating operations through 2002, when the last factory here closed.

The ChemFab operations could have contributed to contamination south of Route 9, he said, but added that many factories have used PFAS materials and other potential sources could also include wastes buried in old landfill sites.

Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics was the last owner of the ChemFab plants and was determined to be the principal source of airborne PFAS contamination that emanated from the factory exhaust stacks over many years.

Since the September meeting, the DEC has worked with the town to determine possible locations for further testing. The neighborhoods where tests were planned are around Hickory Hill Road to the east of Route 7 and the Southshire Drive/Stonehedge Drive area to the west.

Outreach work was done to contact residents who would like to have a well tested, with information posted on the town and DEC websites.

Town Manager Stuart Hurd has said the towns response will be similar to that following the ChemFab contamination discovery seven years ago, when town water lines were extended to many properties with PFAS in wells.

He said the town system has the capacity to serve more people, although some areas might prove difficult to serve from an engineering standpoint because of elevation or other factors. The same was true of the prior water line extensions, but those properties typically were addressed with permanent filtering systems or in a few cases by drilling a new, deeper well.

Project costs

Jason Dolmetsch, president of MSK Engineering, which also worked on the previous expansion project, told the Select Board he believes the towns situation might qualify for reimbursement funding through the Revolving Loan Program, which is expected to reimburse Bennington for preliminary engineering work if the towns application is accepted.

The next step in extending the town water system would be to have the project designed, considering such details as elevation and whether water pressure can be sustained.

The town would also have to fund a multimillion dollar expansion, Hurd said, in estimating the total cost.

He also noted that the previous extension was funded by Saint-Gobain through a consent decree settlement reached in 2017 with the state.
Oakland parent Heather Eisner speaks at a news conference in early November demanding the Oakland teachers union retract its position statements on the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Courtesy of Dan Ancona

Tension rippled across Oakland on Wednesday as leaders in the teachers union urged educators across all grades to spend the day on Pro-Palestinian lesson plans, material that district officials described as harmful and divisive.

It was unclear early in the day how many teachers were participating in the teach-in, but union representatives said they expected wide participation, with recommended curriculum for students as young as 4 years old.

The interest is growing by the hour, said Judy Greenspan, a district teacher and teach-in organizer, as many schools were starting their first classes of the day.

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While the teachers union initially said the teach-in was an unsanctioned action, Greenspan said the Oakland Education Association representative council voted Monday to endorse the effort.

Parents and teachers have threatened to leave the district over the unions efforts to teach a pro-Palestinian perspective, while others have told their children to leave class Wednesday if their teacher is addressing the issue.

Oakland is among several Bay Area school districts scrambling to address the anger and activism driven by the Israel-Hamas war that has pitted teachers, families and students against one another and increased concerns that K-12 classrooms have become battlegrounds rather than safe places to learn.

Bay Area activism has intensified in school districts and elsewhere, as Israels retaliatory bombing of Gaza  following the Oct. 7 Hamas attack in southern Israel that killed 1,200 people  has killed more than 16,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health officials.

Superintendent Kyla Johnson-Trammell cautioned teachers to adhere to district policy regarding the instruction of controversial issues, which includes presenting such content impartially and with factual information.

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I want to again make clear that our expectation is that all educators, in every classroom across the District, take seriously their responsibility to adhere to principles of education, and to keep their personal beliefs out of the classroom, she said in a statement Monday.

District officials did not respond to requests for information on what actions the district would take if educators violated the policy.

Teach-in organizers pushed back, saying that the superintendent was trying to intimidate educators and that the districts recommended curriculum was blatantly biased.

By attempting to chill academic freedom on this topic, OUSD is clearly taking a side in the war on Gaza, according to a statement released by organizers late Tuesday. The teach-in organizers and participants are educators committed to introducing young people to multiple perspectives so they may thoughtfully analyze geopolitical conflict.

Organizers sponsored a 45-minute livestreamed panel that some teachers showed in classrooms Wednesday morning, with three speakers representing organizations supporting Palestinian causes.

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One speaker, identified as Tunde from the Black Alliance for Peace, described the project to exterminate Palestinians as collusion between Israel, the U.S., the European Union and other western powers and a genocidal campaign.

Another speaker, Violette, from the Palestinian Youth Movement, urged students to become involved in the liberation of Palestine.

Young people have a huge role to play in this movement, Violette said.

Anton, a speaker from the Jewish Voice for Peace Bay Area, suggested boycotting companies until they divest financially from the war effort.

Oakland parent Megan Bacigalupi, who has helped lead an effort to counter the unions position, said she watched the panel as it was livestreamed into classrooms.

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This was not an attempt to provide a balanced viewpoint on the current conflict in Israel and Gaza to enable students to be critical thinkers, she said. How could it be when no panelist or the moderator mentioned the Oct. 7 attacks or Hamas once? It was an attempt to indoctrinate Oakland kids to hate the state of Israel and by association, Jewish students.

Other curriculum promoted by teach-in supporters has also resulted in significant pushback from not only district officials, but families and teachers across the city.

The lesson plans made available to teachers in a Google document for the Wednesday teach-in included a Palestinian-themed alphabet book for transitional kindergarten through third-grade students, with the letter I representing intifada, a word historically connected to the armed uprisings by Palestinians against Israeli occupation and control of disputed land. Another lesson for the early elementary grades encouraged students to identify what they will chant at a Palestine protest.

A YouTube video encouraged all teachers to participate in the teach-in, saying its about education, labor power, solidarity and resistance, all mashed into one action.

The proposed curriculum also included an FAQ section providing background information on the teachers union position on topics related to the Israel-Palestinian conflict, including thoughts on Hamas.

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Hamas is complicated; it was started in part by the state of Israel and there has been no election since Hamas was voted in in 2006, according to the document. We are not taking a position on Hamas.

The U.S. and other western powers consider Hamas a terrorist organization.

Teach-in organizers say the districts recommended curriculum on the conflict is biased in favor of Israel and that some of the resources have ties to pro-Israel groups, which are trying to eliminate the words Palestine, settlements and occupation from curriculum.

School board member Sam Davis said he was concerned the teach-in curriculum lacked history of the Israel-Palestinian peace movement, including the Camp Davis Summit in 2000 and other efforts to promote conversations to promote a peaceful settlement.

There have always been efforts to resolve the conflict and that is a message that our young people need to hear, he said, a message of hope that does not fit into the narratives of Hamas or (Israeli Prime Minister) Netanyahu are promoting.

The teach-in follows the controversial statements made by the teachers union in November demanding freedom for Palestine and an immediate cease-fire, while describing Israel as an apartheid state with leaders who promote genocidal rhetoric.

The union leaders urged teachers to bring their message into classrooms, offering pro-Palestinian curriculum and saying they would defend educators who did so if they faced repercussions.

Many teachers, parents and students pushed back and called for the union to retract the statements, saying they have made many feel unsafe and unwelcome in the schools.

The teach-in follows close behind a divisive Oakland City Council meeting, where elected officials unanimously called for a cease-fire in Gaza. The meeting was raucous and spooked the Jewish community, said Tyler Gregory, CEO of the Jewish Community Relations Council.

There were antisemitic slurs and someone who told Gregory that antisemitism isnt real.

The families of Oakland Unified are already anxious because the city has let them down, he added.

So far, the district has responded to the teach-in by saying all the right things, he added, but the question will be what they will do if teachers violated the policy in terms of teaching controversial issues.

The answer could mean more Jewish families requesting transfers out of the district, in addition to the dozen or more that already have, Gregory said.
A woman who prosecutors say "stalked" and stabbed her ex-girlfriend's new boyfriend last year won't be forced to wait for her trial in jail.
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PITTSFIELD  As the Berkshires mourns the loss of Air Force Staff Sgt. Jacob Galliher, U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren is pressing the military for answers regarding the fraught history of the aircraft in which he went down.

A Pittsfield native and Taconic High School graduate, Galliher was the first to be recovered last week after the Osprey CV-22 went down off the coast of Japan.

The Air Force Special Operations Command on Tuesday publicly identified the other seven airmen on board the Osprey last Wednesday's training mission. Two have yet to be recovered.

On Saturday, Warren sent The Eagle a statement of condolence, in which she noted that she would be investigating the safety of the Osprey fleet.

I am pressing the military for answers about this aircrafts troubled history and action to keep airmen safe, the Massachusetts Democrat said.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren's full statement on the loss of Jacob Galliher I send my deepest condolences to the family of Pittsfield native Staff Sgt. Jacob Galliher who died in an Air Force Osprey crash near Japan. My heart breaks for his wife and two sons, and his family in Lanesborough, Massachusetts. Staff Sgt. Galliher was a brave, smart, and talented young man who served his nation with honor. I am pressing the military for answers about this aircrafts troubled history and action to keep airmen safe. The entire Commonwealth mourns with the Galliher family.

Citizens in Japan also want answers. At a protest on Monday, more than 200 people demonstrated against the use of the Osprey fleet at U.S. bases there. Japan suspended its own fleet after the crash. The Pentagon says the Ospreys in the same unit connected to the crash are not flying, but that they are being used at a base in Okinawa.

Gallihers friends and family, which includes his wife, Ivy Galliher and their sons, ages 2 and 7 weeks, have asked for privacy as they mourn the man they say had extraordinary intelligence and integrity.

They issued another statement about the loss of Galliher, known as Jake, through a spokesperson on Saturday.

His short life touched and made better the lives of hundreds, if not thousands in Pittsfield, in this region and everywhere he served," the statement said in part. "Jacob lived to serve his family, his country and the people he loved.

As Galliher is mourned, attention turns to what defects might loom in the Osprey fleet  which has had dozens of crashes since 1992, resulting in more than 50 deaths, according to Aviation Safety Network.

One Osprey crash that killed five U.S. Marines last year was linked to a mysterious clutch problem.

The aircraft, a hybrid with a tiltrotor that can fly like both a helicopter and a plane, is made by Boeing and Bell Textron.

Boeing paid a $8.1 million settlement in connection with whistleblower allegations the company did not "adhere to critical manufacturing specifications in the production of composite parts for V-22 Osprey military aircraft," according to the announcement in September by the U.S. Attorney's Office in Pennsylvania.

The CV-22 Osprey that went down Wednesday is a variant of the V-22 model produced through a partnership between Boeing and Bell Textron, according to a story in The AirForce Times.

The Osprey has worried Japanese officials and citizens. Japan suspended its own fleet after the crash and asked the U.S. to do so as well, according to The Associated Press and other media outlets.

The Pentagon, however, said no such formal request has been made by Japan, NPR reported. The U.S. military is continuing to fly 24 MV-22s, the Marine version of Ospreys, deployed on the southern Japanese island of Okinawa, the report said.

On Tuesday, a Pentagon spokesperson also said that the unit involved in the crash  Air Forces 353rd Special Operations Wing based out of Yokota Air Base and Kadena Air Base  is not conducting Osprey flights and that the U.S. was closely working with Japan on the matter, The Hill reported. She further said that all CV-22 Ospreys in Japan operate only after undergoing thorough maintenance and safety checks.

In Japan, more than 200 citizens demonstrated outside the Okinawa Defense Bureaus headquarters in Kadena to protest further use of the Osprey aircraft, according to Stars and Stripes, a military news site.

The rally was organized by an anti-military base movement, the report said. Protesters also delivered a letter to defense bureau officials demanding the aircraft be grounded pending the results of the crash investigation.

Galliher was a direct support operator assigned to 43rd Intelligence Squadron, Detachment 1, Operating Location  Alpha, 363rd Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing, according to a statement Saturday from Air Force Special Operations Command.

His family said Galliher also was a linguist who spent two years studying Mandarin Chinese, in which he was fluent.

He was recovered from the sea on Wednesday, alongside an empty 20-person life raft and aircraft wreckage, Stars and Stripes reported.

The other crew members who were assigned to the same wing were identified by AFSOC as: Maj. Jeffrey Hoernemann, 32, of Andover, Minn; Maj. Eric Spendlove, 36, of St. George, Utah; Maj. Luke A. Unrath, 34, of Riverside, Calif.; Capt. Terrell Brayman, 32, of Pittsford, N.Y.; Tech. Sgt. Zachary E. Lavoy, 33, of Oviedo, Fla.; Staff Sgt. Jake M. Turnage, 25, of Kennesaw, Ga.; and Senior Airman Brian Johnson, 32, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio.
PITTSFIELD  Unionized members of the Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association seeking a contract with Berkshire Health Systems demonstrated outside Berkshire Medical Center on Monday, alleging that BHS has relaxed its hiring guidelines.

More than 30 people, including BVNA members, union leaders, Berkshire Medical Center nurses and public officials, gathered outside Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield early Monday evening to hold an informational picket and to protest Berkshire Health Systems refusal to agree to a fair contract with a wage step scale and realistic productivity standards, as the Massachusetts Nursing Association put it.

Mondays demonstration was the latest effort in a yearlong public push among BVNA union members to secure a contract. The bargaining unit joined the Massachusetts Nurses Association in December of 2021.

Tamaryn Clowdus, a union co-chair and physical therapist with BHS, said during her remarks Monday that BHS management has recently taken action to hire more nurses by lowering the experience that a nurse is required to have.

They have changed the job requirement from minimum one-year experience to no experience needed despite the medical complexity of our patients increasing, Clowdus said.

Michael Leary, spokesperson with BHS, said that it is true the health system relaxed hiring guidelines somewhat, but that it's rare to hire someone without experience. Even those hired who are considered to be "without experience" go through rigorous training, he said.

Clowdus said that at least one nurse was recently hired with no experience, and that the language of the job description for a posting with the BVNA has changed recently from one-year acute nursing care required to one-year acute nursing care preferred. Current and former job descriptions sent by Leary and Clowdus to The Eagle back up that assessment.

In October, The Eagle reported that BVNA clinicians said theyve lost 29 staff members in the last 22 months.

Sarah Roberts, a nurse at BMC who used to work as a BVNA clinician, said she noticed two ways in which BVNA staffers are shorted compared to hospital nurses. For one, BVNA clinicians are never granted enough time to actually take care of a patient in their home, she said.

And two, There is a huge discrepancy in pay, Roberts said. I originally was a hospital nurse, I went to the VNA and took a small pay cut. Over two and a half years, I received a two percent raise, and that was it, whereas, when I came back to the hospital, I immediately made 4 dollars more an hour.

Deb Delisle and Bonnie Farinon are both BVNA member nurses. They said they were pleased with the turnout Monday.

I dont feel they respect what we do, Delisle said of BHS. In hospitals, you have plenty of staff, people around you, total support. But with our job, we go into peoples houses, we are sometimes in very shady areas, and its not like youre walking into a clean hospital room where you hit a bell and say you need help.

Farinon explained that the two main sticking points are still putting productivity expectations in writing in a contract, and having a wage step scale, which every union contract has.

That seems to be the two things they do not want to talk about, Farinon said.

Leary said in a statement that the health system respects its employees right to organize and is working with unionized members of the BVNA as well as with the MNA in good faith.

We have been holding productive, respectful negotiations with the MNA for more than a year and have proposed wages that are competitive within the homecare industry and productivity expectations that are consistent with homecare industry standards, Leary wrote in an email.

State Rep. John Barrett III, D-North Adams, said that he is firmly behind the unionized workers, and that on Tuesday he sent a letter to BHS management urging them to come to a resolution.

Ive watched their work at the BVNA for years, he said of BVNA clinicians. Theyve been in the trenches, and theyre very important to the district I represent. I just want them to be treated fairly and for these negotiations to be settled, and settled quickly.

Barrett did not want to get into the details of the negotiations, but said, This contract should be settled, and theres no reason for it to drag on. Its a detriment to my district and the people who live here. Im not saying settle these exact terms, but there should be a fairer offer on the table.
Housatonic resident Reed Anderson with a sample of Housatonic water in 2021. The Great Barrington Board of Health and Select Board has invited two lawyers to a joint meeting to discuss options for helping residents.
Activists are objecting to Gov. Maura Healey's decision to cut funds that would benefit some of the state's lowest-income residents, saying it will prevent an "urgently needed" 10 percent benefit bump that was schedule to take effect on April 1.
Jordan Parker is a breaking news reporter for The San Francisco Chronicle. He graduated from Sacramento State University in May 2022 with a degree in journalism. During his time there, he spent three years as a reporter and editor for the university's award-winning student newspaper, The State Hornet. He spent his senior year of college serving as The Hornet's first Black editor in chief, leading the organization to two Pacemaker awards and several other national honors from the Associated Collegiate Press. When he's not chasing down a story, he likes watching movies, traveling and trying new restaurants.

He can be reached at Jordan.Parker@sfchronicle.com.
When unpaid back rent threatened to disrupt his quiet retirement, Charles Hope found relief through the Chronicle Season of Sharing Fund. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle

Most mornings, Charles Hope likes to sit on the fourth-floor balcony of his apartment overlooking the foothills of San Jose and lose himself in a weighty historical tome. Studying history, Hope says, can contextualize the days events and show us how to avoid the mistakes of the past.

He especially enjoys reading about historys great wars, and how, if ever, we could avoid them in the future, he said. But as long as ignorance prevails in the world, probably not.

Earlier this year, mounting back rent threatened the 83-year-old retirees quiet life of learning and reflection and got Hope thinking about all the things he had already overcome to get here. Now he faced a question: Could he do it again?

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Hope was born in Great Falls, Mont., in 1940. He grew up on the family farm, where they grew wheat and barley outside of a little town called Cut Bank. His family never had much, but he didnt think of himself as poor.

Population about 3,000. Its a good place to grow up.  The wind blew all the time, he recalled. I never got a birthday present or a Christmas gift.

Farming isnt easy, but Hope didnt shy from the challenge. If there was something he needed, his father told him he had to work for it, instilling a work ethic that would serve Hope well throughout his life.

Charles Hope spends time at his one-bedroom apartment in San Jose on Oct. 18. The 83-year-old veteran has lived in his current home for 12 years. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle

Hope studied banking and finance at the University of Montana  one of the best schools in the country, by the way, he added  where he enlisted in the Air Force in the lead-up to the Vietnam War. After two years of ROTC, a failed eye exam ended his dream of becoming a fighter pilot. Hope joined the Navy Reserve, then learned the Army would help pay for his educational pursuits and transferred.

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So in a roundabout way, he said, I was kind of a member of the Air Force, the Navy and the Army.

Midway through his Army training, Hopes father died. The man the family hired to keep the ranch going took advantage of Hopes elderly mother, stealing grain and rustling cattle until Hope was granted leave by the Army to return home and help his mother.

Attracted to the Bay Areas more liberal and forward-thinking environment, Hope moved there in 1977. He got involved locally in Mensa  a society of people with high IQs  and was thrilled to be in a chapter with a membership in the thousands after meeting with the 10 or so members in his home state of Montana, he said.

Since then, Hope has lived a life full of curiosity and pursuit. He owned and operated a printing shop, a real estate firm, a property management company and insurance agency, always looking for opportunities to expand his horizons, said Natasha Crum, Hopes Department of Veterans Affairs case manager.

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Hes a real go-getter, Crum said. Dont let his age fool you.  Hes absolutely sharp, and hes an advocate for himself.

In 2021, Hopes rent increased to more than his monthly retirement income. He was able to take advantage of the COVID relief funding offered that year to scrape by. By 2023, though, that funding had run out, and Hopes back rent began piling up.

In 2021, Charles Hopes rent increased to more than his monthly retirement income. After COVID relief funding ran out in 2023, his back rent began piling up. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle

He was eligible for an increase in his housing subsidy, but that wouldnt help with his back rent, Crum said. So he began applying for relief from charitable organizations, including the Chronicle Season of Sharing Fund, a nonprofit administered by the Chronicle and the Evelyn and Walter Haas Jr. Fund that is committed to ending hunger and homelessness in the nine-county Bay Area. Hope was accepted into the program, and Season of Sharing helped him make a sizable dent in his back rent.

Like his last name, he was hopeful, hopeful that he could find some other way, Crum said. And he finally did.

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Hope doesnt regret leaving Montana for the West Coast, despite the myriad challenges he has faced over the decades. His family and friends have long since passed on, he said. San Jose remains his lone connection to the life he fought so hard to build.

Life is an ongoing opportunity to increase your knowledge, he said. The most dangerous thing in the universe, believe it or not, is ignorance  at the root of all evil and all the problems in the world.
Three communication specialists, Tunbosun Afolayan - the first West African to earn the accolade - Ilse Blank, and Karlien Delport Botha, have achieved accreditation as Strategic Communication Management Professionals (SCMP) from the Africa Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC).

Source:  123rf 123rf Three African communication specialists have been accredited as SCMP but it is not enough says the IABC Africa Chapter

This increases the total number of SCMP professionals in Africa to eight. Currently, Africa accounts for only one percent of globally accredited Communication Management Professional (CMP) and four percent of SCM.

Increasing accredited African communication professionals

"While we celebrate the inclusion of another three African professionals in the GCCC registry, we must also address the need for more accredited communication experts from the continent, notes Camilla Osborne SCMP and IABC Africa chairperson.

At the same time, we would like to highlight the importance of accredited communication professionals for recruitment and human resource criteria, she adds.

The IABC Africa chapter is dedicated to increasing the number of accredited African communication professionals in the next five years. Their focus includes raising awareness of the benefits of accreditation for both individuals and organisations.

Africa boasts a wealth of talented communicators, who deal with complex and uniquely African challenges, often with limited resources.

International accreditation offers African communicators a pathway to professional development and career advancement, which are at the core of IABC Africa's mission.

A significant milestone

The SCMP accreditation, conferred by the Global Communication Certification Council (GCCC), is a significant milestone for communication professionals worldwide.

Osborne emphasises the importance of this accomplishment: "Earning the SCMP accreditation underscores the pivotal role communication professionals play in driving organisational value. The evaluation and learning processes are thorough and require commitment.

Those who achieve accreditation enhance their credibility as strategic communication advisors, and importantly bring an African lens to global communication standards and best practices."

Two accreditation levels

The GCCC offers two accreditation levels:

Communication Management Professional (CMP) for individuals with six to eight years of experience and various academic qualifications.

SCMP for those with a minimum of 11 years of experience, along with additional academic, technical, and experiential requirements.

Path to accreditation

The three recently accredited African SCMP share their motivations for pursuing the path of accreditation.

Tunbosun Afolayan SCMP, says, "The SCMP accreditation has not only enhanced my professional credibility, but it also serves as a powerful motivator to always deliver value-based, solution-oriented communication. As I build Pro AllyY to advance the field of energy communication, my skills help me navigate complex business landscapes with finesse, ultimately unlocking opportunities for my personal and professional advancement.

Ilse Blank SCMP highlights the importance of upholding international communication standards: "In today's hyper-connected and polarised global landscape, business executives are increasingly relying on trusted communication advisors who possess a blend of expertise in strategic thinking, business acumen, and value creation through strategic communication. Attaining my SCMP accreditation is opening more doors for me to serve organisations internationally and deliver measurable business value.

Karlien Delport Botha SCMP echoes these sentiments, I wanted to measure myself against global standards as African communicators are often underestimated against our global peers, despite our consistent demonstration of communication excellence. After going through the process, I believe it provides validation for oneself and helps chart the path to becoming an invaluable communication advisor to organisations on the continent and beyond."
Nine out of 10 people in South Africa are worried about the future.

Today, Human8 (previously known as InSites Consulting), the new human-driven consultancy, together with Space Doctors, their strategic cultural and creative specialist team, release their annual What Matters trend report. The 2024 report takes a clear and provocative stance for positive change driven by a global call for urgency as new research reports 90% of people in South Africa are seriously worried about the future and feel brands need to take responsibility.

New global research by Human8 reports 9 out of 10 people in South Africa are seriously worried about the future, confirming the pressure on people and planet is at an all-time high. Weve witnessed insufficient infrastructures and high unemployment rates pushing people out of their homes. The cost-of-living crisis continues to put pressure on budgets and the impact of climate change is becoming more and more visible.

With an additional 82% of South Africans agreeing we need to move beyond sustaining and into reversing the damage done, the global agency advocates the shift towards regenerative sustainability. Where traditional sustainability focuses primarily on maintaining the current state of the environment, regenerative sustainability or regeneration broadens the scope. It's not only about the planet. And its not only about doing less harm. Its about thinking in regenerative ways, restoring and re-imagining everything, from how businesses are run to reshaping human norms and ecological systems.

As a certified B-Corporation the movement for regeneration is part of Space Doctors DNA. With this in mind, we started our 2024 What Matters journey by developing a cultural framework of positive transformation, a model which revealed the four main dimensions of positive change that all brands should be aware of. These dimensions provide the context for a further eight cultural codes of transformation  meaningful and actionable paths to adopting a regenerative mindset and identifying powerful, systemic solutions. says Gareth Lewis, director at Space Doctors.

The four-part global study showcases a unique mix of cultural and human insight methodologies, culminated in a global insight community across 10 markets and a quantification with 13.028 consumers across 17 markets. Not surprisingly, the global research has a clear message for brands as 91% of people in South Africa feel brands need to take a responsibility to help safeguard the future of our planet.

We need to fundamentally change how we do things if we want to safeguard the wellbeing of present and future generations. We see many people, organisations and brands wanting to make a positive change, but they often dont know how or where to start. Our 2024 What Matters report not only reveals the frictions and needs of people in South Africa, but also outlines the actions brands can and must take to respond to what matters to people. adds Anneri Venter, business director South Africa at Human8. We, as an organisation, are also on a mission to do business in the best way possible, and we want to help our clients do the same.

Some key South African findings include:

The time for action is now: 90% are worried about the state of our planet for future generations, 82% says that drastic changes are needed to our lifestyle.



90% are worried about the state of our planet for future generations, 82% says that drastic changes are needed to our lifestyle. Consumers look to brands for inspiration and vision to move them towards positive change: 85% believes making the world a better place isnt something they can do on their own. It requires people/organisations/brands with a clear vision to take the lead and drive change.



85% believes making the world a better place isnt something they can do on their own. It requires people/organisations/brands with a clear vision to take the lead and drive change. Moving the needle on sustainability: Only 16% can confidently state they have a sustainable lifestyle. Education (50%), availability (47%) and quality (37%) of/on sustainable options would help consumers adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.



Only 16% can confidently state they have a sustainable lifestyle. Education (50%), availability (47%) and quality (37%) of/on sustainable options would help consumers adopt a more sustainable lifestyle. Brands need to be more transparent about sustainability efforts: 91% say brands need to provide more information about sustainability efforts, with 57% saying that brands that dont communicate about sustainability arent sustainable.



91% say brands need to provide more information about sustainability efforts, with 57% saying that brands that dont communicate about sustainability arent sustainable. Flip the script on diversity and inclusion: 49% states that fighting dominant norms and labels used in society is draining and ineffective. They believe it is better to just let go and create your own way of doing things.

For more information and access to the full 2024 What Matters report, visit www.wearehuman8.com/reports/what-matters-report-2024/.
In a near-bankrupt and hobbled city where homeless people sleep in bus shelters and on the streets, the City of Johannesburg has passed a plan to spend R1.4bn on high-cost property leases and an additional R2bn (rising to R12bn) to renovate the Metro Centre.

Source: Wikipedia.

Whistle-blowers at the Johannesburg Property Company (JPC) have told DA chief whip Leah Knott that the majority of the leases are going to ANC property mogul Lonwabo Sambudla, a favoured contractor.

A spokesperson for his company, Bayete Capital, said they had not heard anything from the JPC and that they had tendered along with other companies. Sambudla is a longstanding ANC member and former chief executive officer of the ANC Youth Leagues Lembede Investments.

Read the full article by Ferial Haffajee at Daily Maverick.
Minor Hotels is set to introduce its Anantara luxury brand to the African wilderness with the opening of Anantara Kafue River Tented Camp in early 2025. Nestled within Zambia's vast Kafue National Park, the camp will offer an exclusive and intimate retreat, with just 12 spacious tents, including a 600-square-meter Presidential Villa. Guests will enjoy unparalleled access to the surrounding bush and river, as the camp will be suspended 3.5 meters above the ground. Two islands adjacent to the camp will house a spa and wellness area, a restaurant and bar, a lounge, and a traditional African boma.

Source: Supplied

Anantara Kafue River Tented Camp is owned by Agro Safari, a division of a stalwart Zambian company with a legacy spanning generations. The partnership with Minor Hotels signifies a commitment to crafting the ultimate safari experience and brings to life a vision shared by both entities, blending Agro Safaris extensive land holdings with Minor Hotels expertise, underscored by the prestigious Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara.

When it launches in early 2025, the new camp will immerse guests in the heart of a national park populated with majestic wildlife. Each luxury tent, strategically spaced for privacy and to maximise immersion in the bush and surrounding landscapes, comes complete with its plunge pool and use of a boat and skipper. Nature-centric experiences will include canoeing, fishing, birdwatching, boat safaris, and encounters with wildlife, all curated to elevate the guest experience in the African bush in an entirely unforgettable way.

Source: Supplied

Kafue National Park is located in the centre of Western Zambia and is one of the largest reserves in all of Africa, covering a staggering 22,400 square kilometres. The park is home to a fantastic diversity of wildlife and birdlife and much of it remains largely unexplored and untouched. The new camp will be located approximately a three-hour drive from Victoria Falls or the capital Lusaka, or a short helicopter ride.

Sustainable practices

The resort will embrace eco-friendly features, from harnessing photo voltaic energy to employing parabolic collectors and sustainable woods, ensuring a delicate equilibrium between development and the preservation of the natural environment.

Community-driven endeavour

The Community Culture Infusion is a pledge to infuse indigenous elements into the very fabric of the camp, befitting the ethos of the Anantara brand. From engaging local businesses in the supply chain to employing a majority Zambian staff, the camp is set to become a beacon of community empowerment and cultural celebration.

Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of parent company Minor International, comments: "We are excited to announce this partnership with Agro Safari to develop and launch an exclusive tented camp in Zambia under our luxury Anantara flag. This represents a unique opportunity to offer unparalleled experiences to discerning travellers looking to explore outside the more well-known African parks and we look forward to working closely with our partners to bring this camp to fruition.
South Africa's automotive industry will likely produce its first electric vehicle (EV) in 2026, the trade minister said on Monday, as he outlined plans for the country's green transport transition.

An electric car charging sign is seen in a car park at a petrol station in Sao Paulo, Brazil on 3 March 2018. Reuters/Nacho Doce/File Photo

The electrification of transport is one of the key pillars underpinning South Africa's Just Energy Transition (Jet) plan for a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy.

The Jet plan estimates that an investment of R128.1bn ($6.84bn) would be needed from 20232027 for the transport sector to contribute meaningfully to South Africa's decarbonisation commitments.

South Africa is the largest automotive manufacturing hub on the African continent, hosting global brands such as Toyota, Isuzu, Volkswagen and Mercedes, among others.

It is also highly integrated into the global supply chain, drawing components from across the world and exporting the final consumer product to more than 150 countries worldwide.

"We're already producing hybrids but we anticipate that the first electric vehicles are likely to be produced already by 2026," Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel told journalists.

Based on discussions his department was having with the automakers, the first batch of EVs will be limited. Growth should then accelerate between 2026 and 2030, with only one manufacturer anticipating moving into battery electric vehicle production after 2030, he added without naming any brands.

In a 68-page EV plan, the government outlined steps to support the transition, such as government incentives, a temporary reduction on import duties for batteries in vehicles produced and sold in the domestic market, and the commercialisation of green hydrogen production as a source of sustainable fuel.

It will also reform network industries, including freight rail and ports and implement energy reforms.

The country's power crisis poses one of the risks as the country's state-power utility Eskom struggles to keep the lights on.

The effective bans on CO2-emitting vehicles from 2035 in key markets like the European Union and UK will be profound, as they absorb nearly half of South African auto production, the plan read.
WeThinkCode_ has announced the appointment of Ayanda Mda as its new director of campuses.

Ayanda Mda | image supplied

Mda, with a robust background in human resources and a keen understanding of the transformative potential for underserved youth, is said to bring a dynamic perspective to her new role.

WeThinkCode_ CEO, Nyari Samushonga, expressed confidence in Mda's strategic impact, "Ayandas role will bring a new focused enthusiasm for our campus strategy. Enabling WeThinkCode_ to ensure that students feel a connected culture across all campuses while ensuring that operational efficiencies are in full force."

In her pivotal role, Mda is poised to navigate operational intricacies across campuses, aiming to fully integrate herself, embrace unique campus challenges, and uphold a consistent student experience. However, her responsibilities extend beyond operations, with Mda envisioning herself as the custodian of students, overseeing their entire lifecycle from enrollment to graduation.

Mda states, "I am honoured to join the team, driving the greater ambition of the business forward, while fostering inclusivity among our students and empowering the next generation of tech talent. We have one goal in mind, to revolutionise tech education in South Africa,"

Before joining WeThinkCode_, Mda served as the executive manager of HR and IR at Lanseria International Airport, where she played a key role in strategizing, developing, and implementing culture, employee engagement, and organisational development initiatives.

With postgraduate qualifications in labour law, psychology, and industrial relations, Mda brings a wealth of knowledge to her new position. As she assumes her role, Ayanda embraces a forward-looking perspective, aiming to evolve into a broader chief operating officer position within WeThinkCode_.
SAICA hosted its inaugural Climate Change Conference on Wednesday, 25 October 2023, coinciding with the passing of SAs Climate Change Bill ahead of COP28 in the UAE in late November, to deliberate on local challenges, market solutions, financial instruments, and leverage on existing opportunities.

Khaya Sithole facilitating a panel discussion at SAICAs inaugural Climate Change Conference.

Held under the theme, Difference Making is about Creating a Sustainable Future, and comprising of three panel discussions, a separate TCFD and TNFD engagements, the conference brought together industry leaders, stakeholders, SAICA members and the broader environmental sustainability community.

Representing the Presidential Climate Commission was Dipak Patel, who noted that South Africas priority is to ensure secure, accessible, and affordable electricity for all by enhancing the national diversified energy mix strategy. Through the countrys Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JET IP) unveiled at the World Leaders Summit during COP 27 by President Ramaphosa, promoting sustainable development and a just transition with inclusive growth, environmental justice and societal approach remain the prime concern.

Cop 28  the Emerging Economies Perspective: Price of the low carbon economy

The panellists included Gillian Niven, sustainability legal specialist at Niven Attorney Inc.; Nola Richards, group executive head of ESG and sustainable business at Vodacom; Anelisa Keke, chief sustainability officer at Redefine Properties and Scott Williams, ESG coordinating director: Marsh Middle East and Africa.

With rules on the Paris Agreement adopted at COP21 in 2015 still unclear, Gillian Niven said more clarification of these rules will give momentum and open South Africas carbon market.

South Africa does not have a fully operational carbon market at the moment, we have had some of the starting blocks being put in place like the carbon tax. However, looking at the projects that corporate SA and businesses are investing in to achieve the net-zero targets, we have seen a proliferation of renewable energy projects and with that an interest in environmental attributes, which feeds into a more global conversation around the carbon market, said Niven.

On the other hand, Nola Richards, and Scott Williams highlighted the different energy regulations across Africa as a stumbling block in investing in a low carbon economy. Some of the operations are very constrained and the regulatory environment does not allow for corporate to do much in terms of carbon economy. It is very complex, but we are up for the challenge, said Richards.

Anelisa Keke, chief sustainability officer at Redefine Properties, said that they have incorporated the UNs sustainability call into their strategy as a company. Any target we have is specifically aimed at contributing to one or more global goals under the SDGs. Our view is that we need to be in a position by 2030 to articulate how our business activities have contributed to the achievement of the goals, said Keke.

As we get closer to COP28 to be held between 30 November to 12 December 2023, Williams, said that he would like to see a stronger COP28 Presidency which puts aside different personalities and prioritises limiting climate change.

The biggest takeaway from COP27 was the establishment of the Loss and Damage Fund from a climate change perspective. I think they have recently had engagements regarding the working group countries, but it is still not that promising. I am hoping we get rapid improvement and tangible outcomes, said Williams.

Evolving expectations in Climate Disclosures and its impact on corporate reporting

In unpacking this topic, the panellists included Jayne Mammatt, partner at Deloitte; Kavita Pema, group head: sustainability and ESG at AECI Limited; Cynthia Mbili, technical partner at Ernst & Young; Harold Pauwels, director standards at Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and Ravi Abeyawardana, director strategic affairs and capacity building at the IFRS Foundation.

While admitting that a lot of progress has been made in terms of data supporting climate change disclosures and broader sustainability reporting, Jayne Mammatt said that more can be done to ensure accuracy in climate and sustainability reporting.

That rigour, the internal control that the government has built in terms of getting financial information right, we do not often see that same amount of rigour in the sustainability information or the climate information. In certain functions, it is done with just one person responsible for it and mistakes happen, we are all human. Potential, mistakes are being made before it gets out to the public domain for other people to make decisions on it, said Mammatt.

Echoing Mammatts sentiments, Kavita Pema, said that the field of sustainability and climate change requires a wide set of expertise and no one person has it all. You must make sure that the people that you bring to the team, bring in these various levels of expertise. The only way to do that is to upskill the people that you already have. The difficulty that we might have in the business space is that we have very limited resources, said Pema.

Meanwhile, Cynthia Mbili applauded the companies that have taken the stance to report on sustainability. Most of our companies are already reporting on sustainability, although voluntarily and using different frameworks. We have seen regulators putting out requirements saying disclose or provide certain information. I would advocate for a short to long-term solution in terms of trying to mandate the standards, said Mbili.

GRI and the ISSB echoed their commitment to continue to collaborate as they strengthen alignment in sustainability disclosures and reporting at a global level.

The role of accountants and auditors in tackling climate change and reporting

The panellists were Ian Kramer, senior vice president: group finance at AngloGold Ashanti; Fikile Zwane, partner at SNG Grant Thornton; Milan van Wyk, senior lecturer at the University of Johannesburg and Ronell Govender, global ESG and sustainability at Naspers.

Ian Kramer said that auditors need to understand the business of their clients on sustainability reporting, saying that most entities underestimate what that means. AngloGold Ashanti has a mine in Brazil that is subjected to significant heavy rainfalls annually. We then have a mine in West Africa in Guinea, which is based in an area where there is a severe drought. It is a completely different climate change impact. Your auditor needs to understand that when you are reporting on it, it is going to look different, said Kramer.

Fikile Zwane criticised the greenwashing that exists in climate change and reporting saying that as a firm they must protect the users of the financial statements and be honest when the client is not upfront. Usually, before entities start reporting they put in place processes, and they have benchmarks. So, when a company states it has saved so much emissions, it must be compared to tangible data. As ESG assurance providers, we usually go into companies and verify the benchmarks, said Zwane.

According to Dr Mantlana from the CSIR, SA needs to bridge the gap between what needs to be done and climate action. Furthermore, corporate SA must ensure its representation in the countrys GHG emission target blueprint through the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), updated every five years by the government.

The conference revealed how companies and the accountancy profession are rethinking strategies and investments to stay ahead in terms of implementing climate commitments.

The webcast of the conference can be accessed here and the password is Climate23#.




Qatar Airways has clinched a total of three awards at the World Travel Awards. The airline was recognised for its commitment to excellence and travel experience, receiving the awards for World's Leading Airline', 'World's Leading Airline - Business Class' and 'World's Leading Airline Lounge - Business Class: Al Mourjan Business Lounge'.

The World Travel Awards brings together industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders to celebrate notable achievements in aviation and travel. The airline remains committed to providing unmatched service, and furthering innovation and sustainability, all while maintaining its position as a global leader in the industry.

The World's Leading Airline award acknowledges Qatar Airways' dedication to passenger satisfaction. The 'World's Leading Airline - Business Class award has reinforced it as the best way to travel, owing to its unparalleled quality service and luxury. The award for the World's Leading Airline Lounge - Business Class: Al Mourjan Business Lounge, an achievement for Qatar Airways and Hamad International Airport.

Qatar Airways Group chief executive officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, says: "Qatar Airways is committed to pushing the boundaries of excellence and is proud of the recognition we have received at the World Travel Awards. These accolades reinforce our dedication to delivering nothing short of exceptional services to our passengers at each touchpoint."

World Travel Awards founder, Graham E. Cooke, says: Qatar Airways continues to soar to new heights, and I am delighted that both the industry and the general public have acknowledged this unrivalled excellence by voting it Worlds Leading Airline 2023, Worlds Leading Airline - Business Class 2023 and Worlds Leading Airline Lounge - Business Class 2023. The commitment of the entire Qatar Airways team serves as an inspiration to us all."
The first Global Stocktake is set to conclude at COP28, which allows the global community to measure the progress made since the signing of the Paris Agreement and to take collective action to accelerate mitigation, adaptation, and financing for further climate ambition.

Image source: Chayanit Chankhong  123RF.com

Dalit Anstey, an ESG knowledge lawyer at Webber Wentzel, examines South Africa's climate policies and its evolving energy transition in light of recent changes. Anstey emphasises critical discussions expected at COP28, underscoring the importance of justice considerations.

The Global Stocktake (GST)

The 2023 edition of the United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP28) will be unique as the first-ever GST is set to conclude, providing an opportunity for the global community to measure the progress made since the signing of the Paris Agreement and to take collective action to accelerate mitigation, adaptation, and financing for further climate ambition. This five-year event aims to inform future climate action plans, notably the nationally determined contributions.

The GST highlights the implementation gaps across all areas in the Paris Agreement. There is a mitigation gap, with the current trajectory of global emissions not being consistent with limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, adaptation to climate change is not at the levels required. Anstey noted that certain African nations have criticised the GST's documentation for overlooking the importance of sustainable development policy, equity and just transitions.

South Africa's "Stocktake"

South Africa is infamously known as the highest emitter of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Africa and one of the highest emitters in the world, due to its disproportionately high reliance on fossil fuels in the energy mix. As a signatory of the Paris Agreement, and in line with the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in the light of different national circumstances", as set out in Article 4.3, South Africa has committed to various climate change targets which it believes is its "fair share".

Over the years, South Africa has published a series of significant climate change policies. Webber Wentzel delves into some of these policies in an article title: cross-jurisdictional assessment of the development of climate change-related legislation across the continent. Sustainable finance policies are also starting to surface, including guidance to banks and insurers on climate-related risks and disclosures and a green finance taxonomy.

Anstey highlights a key concern, "These policies lack teeth, as their enforceability is questionable from a legal standpoint. Some suggest that what is required in this space given the severity of the climate crisis is decisive law and policy to move the dial. South Africa introduced the Carbon Tax Act 15 of 2019."

Climate Change Bill

On 24 October 2023, the National Assembly passed the momentous Climate Change Bill (B9-2022) (Bill) which focuses on establishing a strategy for addressing climate change and implementing a fair, long-term energy transition plan to ultimately foster a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy in South Africa. The Bill is a crucial, first step to ensuring the country has a legal instrument to build the capacity to respond to the impact of climate change and reduce emissions in a way that is appropriate to national circumstances.

The Bill will introduce the concept of a "carbon budget" which limits the amount of GHGs an entity is entitled to emit. To find out more information about the architecture of the Bill, read Webber Wentzel's insight on Climate Change Bill introduced in Parliament. The Bill will still face its final hurdles before it becomes an act of Parliament  it requires the concurrence of the National Council of Provinces and the President's signature.

"The Bill first surfaced in 2018 when it was published for public comment. It is overdue but arguably a necessary tool to enable South Africa to achieve its climate change ambitions. There have been many policy developments since 2018, especially concerning the Just Energy Transition (JET) and we hope that the puzzle pieces all ultimately fit together," states Anstey.

South Africa positioned itself as a poster child for the JET, inviting international and local investors to partner with the nation to achieve energy security, economic growth and tackle systemic challenges, such as poverty, inequality, and unemployment, while achieving its climate change targets.

To date, South Africa has secured approximately $9.3bn from international partners for the JET but recently noted in the approved JET Implementation Plan that it requires just short of $80bn to fund the JET. More has to be done on this front to address the shortfall, including addressing underlying critical governance failures and regulatory bottlenecks.

"We are seeing developments and the growth of voluntary carbon markets in Africa, since the launch of the Africa Carbon Markets Initiative at COP27 in Egypt, which is a coalition of organisations focused on high integrity climate impact, clean energy, and sustainable development, to accelerate the growth of Africa's voluntary carbon markets. The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) Ventures Carbon Market was launched in October 2023, it is a venture between the JSE and Xpansiv, providing a platform to buy and sell carbon credits or renewable energy certificates. Carbon markets have been identified as an important tool for governments and the private sector seeking to achieve climate change objectives and can direct capital flows to developing countries for projects that strengthen climate change resilience. However, there have been some uncertainties regarding the legal nature of carbon credits, regulation of carbon trading, carbon offset project credibility and oversight mechanisms. These issues must be resolved if we are to take the carbon market forward," asserts Anstey.

Looking to COP28

Some of the main agenda items at COP28 include the GST, accelerating the global energy transition, climate finance, the loss and damage fund (which was launched on the first day of COP 28) and leadership in climate action. However, the Mininster of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (Minister) noted at the National Stakeholder Consultation on South Africa's Negotiating Mandate for COP28 that COP28 also provides a key platform for broader conversations. The Minister noted the following three broader conversations that will be taking place on the margins of COP28:

how developing countries in Africa can take advantage of their abundant, renewable energy, resources, and strategic minerals to build, shared prosperity and sustainable development on the continent;



the threat to sustainable development posed by unilateral trade measures imposed outside of the Paris Agreement and arguably, in violation of the key principles of the Paris Agreement (the Minister highlighted the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism in particular); and



the pressing need for transformation of the global financial architecture to make the global financial system fit for purpose in assisting countries to combat climate change and also to achieve their sustainable development goals.

"The underlying theme of the topics of the 'fireside chats', as well as the main agenda items for COP28 clearly demonstrate that fundamental questions regarding climate justice remain unresolved. These fundamental justice concerns, which global "south" countries argue have been historically ignored by global 'north' countries, must be brought to the fore at COP28 and beyond, especially if we are to truly take stock of the international climate change regime," concludes Anstey.
In a strategic move to bolster its global standing in the face of a swiftly changing industry landscape, South Africa's business events sector actively engaged in the renowned IBTM (Incentive, Business Travel, and Meetings) World held in Barcelona, Spain from 28 to 30 November 2023, IBTM World stands as the premier gathering in the worldwide business events sector, offering an exclusive stage for fostering engagement, connectivity, and meaningful business interactions.

Source: Supplied

Known for its networking opportunities, IBTM World events included educational sessions highlighting the latest trends and innovations in the industry. In addition to that, IBTM World is essential for professionals seeking insights and new contacts in the global business events market.

The Team South Africa delegation strongly represented various sectors, including provincial tourism authorities, destination management companies, tour operators, and accommodation providers. This ensured that South Africas business events industry is showcased in its entirety and that focus is placed on the countrys capacity to host world-class events.

Iconic conference centres and provincial convention bureaux such as the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC), Durban KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau, Gauteng Convention & Events Bureau, Sandton Treeway Centre / Hotel Sky, Vineyard Hotel, Century City Conference Centre and Hotels, Into Africa, and Radisson Hospitality South Africa are amongst the products.

South Africas participation at IBTM World comes as the country prepares to host the Meetings Africa 2024 conference in February. Meetings Africa is a leading trade show in the conference, exhibition, and meetings sector on the African continent.

Source: Supplied

"As we cast our eyes to Meetings Africa in February next year, our presence at IBTM World underscores our dedication to positioning South Africa as a leading global destination for business events.

"We are not only using this opportunity to invite the global business events industry to come to South Africa and to share in our diverse offerings, our state-of-the-art conference venues and facilities, but we are also inviting them to come and experience our rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes and to meet our warm, highly knowledgeable and welcoming South Africans," said Zinhle Nzama, acting chief convention bureau officer at South African Tourism, emphasising the strategic importance of this participation.

As a formidable business events destination, South Africa has a long history of hosting successful events, said Nzama, speaking at the IBTM World 2023.

"South Africa recently hosted significant international events, the 15th Brics Summit, which attracted over 30 heads of state, thus reinforcing our status as a global influencer."

She emphasised that in addition to South Africas breathtaking landscapes and excellent conference venues and accommodation establishments, the warmth and welcoming nature of South Africans is the countrys greatest asset.

"In every corner of our country, from the bustling streets of our vibrant cities to the serene safaris, you will find a common thread, and that is the open-heartedness and welcoming nature of South Africans. The warmth of the South African people is always at the forefront and is evident in all our international conferences and business events. Moreover, this warmth translates into an exceptional service ethos, particularly evident in our tourism and hospitality sector," Nzama added

At IBTM World, South African exhibitors engaged in pre-scheduled face-to-face meetings with targeted potential partners, associations, and other representatives interested in learning more about South Africa and fostering meaningful connections and business opportunities. Team South Africa sought to source high-quality business event leads, furthering ambitions to contribute to the countrys economy.

Nzama stated: "IBTM World is more than just an exhibition; it is a catalyst for growth and innovation in the business events industry. South African Tourisms involvement in this event forms part of a cohesive strategy to ensure a coordinated approach to industry representation at such global platforms, which is crucial for our success."

Since the start of the 2023/24 fiscal year, Nzama revealed that the SANCB has submitted 63 bids for international business events hosted in South Africa between 2023 and 2029. These bids, with a combined estimated economic impact of R1.2bn, "reflect our commitment to attracting significant business events that align with the National Governments development priorities, in which tourism plays a catalytic role".

South African Tourisms presence at IBTM World 2023 "is a testament to our unwavering commitment to promoting South Africa as a premier business events destination. We invite industry professionals and delegates to explore our offerings and engage with us as we continue to position South Africa as a leader in the global MICE market," Nzama concluded.
A Land Rover with its drivers side window broken in Hayes Valley on Monday. A new report by San Francisco police says car break-ins have dramatically decreased this year, but residents arent so sure. Rachel Swan/The Chronicle

After suffering her third car break-in this year in San Franciscos Hayes Valley neighborhood, Emi Uyehara wrangled a small consolation prize: a loyalty discount at the glass repair shop.

It was a dubious win for Uyehara, whose car windows were smashed in May, October and November while she attended an opera performance and two events produced by City Arts & Lectures.

S.F. car break-in tracker: Map shows close to real time break-ins across San Francisco

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The November incident was perhaps most unsettling. Uyehara had parked at Franklin and Hayes streets and sat down in the elegant Sydney Goldstein Theater when she heard an alarm bleating. Noting the direction from which the sound emanated, she knew it was her own.

So Uyehara was surprised to see a report this week about San Franciscos dramatic decline in break-ins, and wondered whether the Police Departments data told the whole story. The release of new, stunning numbers  3,399 smash-and-grabs from Sept. 1 to Nov. 26, compared with 6,703 during the same period last year  coincided with a new video, purporting to show at least nine burglarized cars in the Hayes Valley area.

Glass spattered the asphalt at Ivy and Webster streets where the footage was captured, contrasting the new data and the progress touted by city leaders. The neighborhood group that posted the video, Hayes Valley Safe, did not respond to a request for comment.

We are aware of the damaged vehicles, SFPD officer Robert Rueca told the Chronicle, adding that the department was looking into the matter.

Some San Francisco residents, including Uyehara, wondered whether police were making strides, or whether the problem had become so daunting that victims no longer saw the point in filing reports.

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Im in the why bother, camp, said Uyehara, who had not reported her three recent break-ins as of Tuesday. Until then, Uyehara saw little advantage in notifying law enforcement, since she had to pay for the damage anyway. But the Chronicle report changed her mind, she said.

I will be filing three police reports online, she said to make sure that the statistics are accurate.

A spokesperson for the Police Department outlined the benefits of reporting incidents, since each one can help with a criminal investigation.

Patrol officers document the facts of each incident and often collect evidence such as surveillance video which helps investigators identify suspects, link suspects to other open cases and obtain arrest warrants, spokesperson Allison Maxie said.

Law enforcement officials say that in the past three months they have significantly cracked down on break-ins, by combining targeted police operations to catch prolific burglars, aggressive prosecutions and hard-line messaging to scare off would-be perpetrators.

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Despite those efforts, the glass that quilted Hayes Valley streets on Monday morning indicated just how far the city has to go.

Much of the destruction depicted in the viral video had been cleaned up by the afternoon, except for a gray Land Rover parked on Hayes Street, with a shattered drivers side window.
Small business development specialist, Edge Growth, has released an inaugural Impact Report to provide partners and stakeholders with a detailed analysis of the positive social and economic upliftment made through their efforts to facilitate and enhance job creation.

The report was officially launched at an event titled Impact Ignited: Celebrating 15 Years of Impact in Small Business Development.

With small businesses in South Africa recognised as the cornerstone of our economy and being vital for job creation, the ongoing challenge lies in the fact that not enough SMEs experience success to the point that they can significantly contribute to the alleviation of unemployment. Without help, most small businesses fail within the first two years. Edge Growths solutions driven approach is designed to combat this by providing SMEs with the financial support and skills development they need to build sustainable thriving businesses.

Since launching just over 15 years ago, Edge Growth has experienced significant growth and made a material impact on the local SME ecosystem. Close to 100% of businesses that they fund are black-owned, with most of the SMEs being in the early stage with a turnover at inception of up to R50m.

Some highlights from the report include that since inception, Edge Growth has supported over 1,000 businesses, assisted in creating more than 10,000 new jobs, and enabled SME annual revenue growth of over 18%. 60% of SMEs assisted by Edge Growth have obtained or increased the value of their corporate contracts.

Ultimately, what were here to do is to create sustainable livelihoods. This could be a solo entrepreneur building a lifestyle business or a business that employs people and creates jobs, says Susan Moloisane, chief executive of Edge Growth Solutions. The knock-on effect of building a sustainable livelihood is times six, because, on average, a breadwinner supports six people. Thats why we focus so much on job creation, and sustaining jobs and livelihoods.

Edge Growths track record speaks for itself, with R1,4bn in capital deployed and more than R2bn in funds under management.

Over the last year alone, despite a tough economic climate, the number of SMEs impacted increased to 250, compared to 154 in 2022. The last year also saw a steady increase in the number of black owned, and specifically black women owned SMEs with Edge Growths portfolio.

Impact is core to all we do. It reinforces our objective of being transparent and accountable and demonstrates the social and environmental effects of our investments and the activities beyond just financial returns, says Janice Johnston, chief executive of its Ventures business unit.

We believe this impact report will encourage engagement and dialogue with all stakeholders and through this, we aim to achieve improved understanding and collaboration for the whole SME support ecosystem, she says.

Johnston and Moloisane were joined at the event by investment expert Melanie de Nysschen, who unpacked how venture capital can contribute to unlocking Africas economic growth potential.

To read the comprehensive Impact Report, please visit edgegrowth.com.
More modes of study available in response to education landscape needs including micro courses designed to harness artificial intelligence in the creative and education industry

The Red & Yellow Creative School of Business is expanding its educational offering with a fully online distance-learning BCom Marketing undergraduate degree.

The new mode of study was developed in response to increased market needs for further learning options in South Africa, and makes all the benefits of the Red & Yellow BCom Marketing degree accessible to even more students. It is available online and can be completed in three to six years as a part-time distance-supported learning option.

The additional mode of study established Red & Yellow as one of the foremost tertiary institutions in South Africa, with the school looking to offer the most modes of study, thereby ensuring access to quality education for all.

Our BCom Marketing distance degree has a strong focus on future-focused capabilities like data analytics, social intelligence and creative thinking, all of which are key to establishing our learners as future-fit additions to the workforce, says Elizabeth Lee Ming, head of marketing at Red & Yellow.

Weve developed the degree to also cover critical specialist subject areas like business, economics, marketing, accounting, strategic brand management, project management and information systems, ensuring that our graduates are ahead of the curve in the ever evolving business and marketing landscape.

At its core, the school has placed strategic focus on offering the most modes of study to be adaptive and responsive to the education market. Unfortunately, agility and responsive are not traditionally considered in the same train of thought as educational curricula  many of which are decades old, says Lee Ming.

The fact of the matter is that traditional tertiary models are dying out, and were committed to providing study options that cater for the diverse demands by consumers for learning  with multiple ways to provide quality, tertiary education as we battle crippling unemployment rates and shifting qualification needs.

The Red & Yellow BCom Marketing distance degree showcases the power of agility, market readiness, and consumer insights in reshaping further education offerings.

This degree combines hard, technical, theoretical know-how with much needed practical implementation through working on real brands. It also aims to develop human skills like empathy and creative thinking, all of which establish career resilience to ensure much better employability for graduates, says Lee Ming.

The distance BCom Marketing undergraduate degree comes off the heels of Red & Yellows recent release of AI micro courses to skill and educate on leveraging artificial intelligence in the creative industry.

Carmen Schaefer, head of Academics, maintains that the jobs of the future are here today. Being equipped to thrive in the ever-changing creative and business landscape is no longer a question of one day  but rather a crucial need right now.

Continuing its focus on future-proofing its curriculum, Red & Yellow have rolled out a new series of micro-courses focused on harnessing AI in creative and marketing roles, with courses that are accessible, fast and most importantly packed with the necessary skills to master AI tools that are becoming more commonplace in our careers.

For more information on the expanded modes of study visit www.redandyellow.co.za.
The Guardian spoke with experts who disputed Israels claim that the AI targeting program is minimizing civilian casualties.

Tel Aviv has been relying on an AI Program dubbed the Gospel to select targets in Gaza at a rapid pace. In past operations in Gaza, the IDF ran out of targets to strike in the besieged enclave.

A statement on the IDF website says the Israeli military is using the Gospel to produce targets at a fast pace. It continues, Through the rapid and automatic extraction of intelligence, the Gospel produced targeting recommendations for its researchers with the goal of a complete match between the recommendation of the machine and the identification carried out by a person.

Aviv Kochavi, former head of the IDF, said the system was first used in the May 2021 bombing campaign in Gaza. To put that into perspective, in the past we would produce 50 targets in Gaza per year, he said. Now, this machine produces 100 targets a single day, with 50% of them being attacked.

The IDF does not disclose what it inputs into the Gospel for the program to produce a list of targets.

Thursday, the Israeli outlet +972 Magazine reported Tel Aviv was using AI to pick targets in Gaza. A former Israeli official told the +972 that the Gospel was being used as a mass assassination factory. The program is selecting the home of suspected low-level Hamas members for destruction. Sources told the outlet that strikes on homes can kill numerous civilians.

One source was critical of the Gospel. I remember thinking that it was like if [Palestinian militants] would bomb all the private residences of our families when [Israeli soldiers] go back to sleep at home on the weekend, they said.

On Friday, the Guardian expanded on the +972 article by reporting that the Gospel plays a central role in the Gaza military operations.

A former senior Israeli military source told the Guardian that operatives use a very accurate calculation of the number or rate of civilians fleeing a building before an impending strike. However, other experts disputed that assertion. A lawyer who advises governments on AI and compliance with humanitarian law told the outlet there was little empirical evidence to support the claim.

During the nearly two-month-long conflict, Israel has hit over 15,000 targets. According to the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor, Israel has dropped more than 25,000 tonnes of explosives on the Gaza Strip. The IDF reports that it has only killed between 1,000 and 2,000 suspected Hamas members. At the same time, at least 15,000 civilians have been killed, including 6,000 children.

Richard Moyes, a researcher who heads Article 36, said the images of Gaza prove the Israeli bombing of Gaza has not focused on accuracy. Look at the physical landscape of Gaza, he explained. Were seeing the widespread flattening of an urban area with heavy explosive weapons, so to claim theres precision and narrowness of force being exerted is not borne out by the facts.

This week, the BBC reviewed drone and satellite images of Gaza and determined that over 100,000 buildings have sustained damage.

Israeli sources speaking with +972 also disputed the claim that the IDF has attempted to avoid civilian casualties. A senior intelligence officer told his officers after October 7 that the goal was to kill as many Hamas operatives as possible, for which the criteria around harming Palestinian civilians were significantly relaxed, the outlet reported.

A second source said that the massive bombing campaign was due to the embarrassment the Israeli government suffered on October 7. All of this is happening contrary to the protocol used by the IDF in the past, they stated. There is a feeling that senior officials in the army are aware of their failure on October 7, and are busy with the question of how to provide the Israeli public with an image [of victory] that will salvage their reputation.

On Thursday, the New York Times reported that the Israeli government had been aware of Hamass plans for October 7 for more than a year. The article explained that Israeli officials believe Hamas lacked the capability to attack and would not dare to do so. That belief was so ingrained in the Israeli government, officials said, that they disregarded growing evidence to the contrary.

Kyle Anzalone is the opinion editor of Antiwar.com, news editor of the Libertarian Institute, and co-host of Conflicts of Interest
We are rapidly entering the age of no privacy, where everyone is open to surveillance at all times; where there are no secrets from government.  William O. Douglas, dissenting in Osborn v. United States (1966)

The government wants us to believe that we have nothing to fear from its mass spying programs as long as weve done nothing wrong.

Dont believe it.

It doesnt matter whether you obey every law. The governments definition of a bad guy is extraordinarily broad, and it results in the warrantless surveillance of innocent, law-abiding Americans on a staggering scale.

For instance, it was recently revealed that the White House, relying on a set of privacy loopholes, has been sidestepping the Fourth Amendment by paying AT&T to allow federal, state, and local law enforcement to accesswithout a warrantthe phone records of Americans who are not suspected of a crime.

This goes way beyond the NSAs metadata collection program.

Operated during the Obama, Trump and now the Biden presidencies, this secret dragnet surveillance program (formerly known as Hemisphere and now dubbed Data Analytical Services) uses its association with the White House to sidestep a vast array of privacy and transparency laws.

According to Senator Ron Wyden, Hemisphere has been operating without any oversight for more than a decade under the guise of cracking down on drug traffickers.

This is how the government routinely breaks the law and gets away with it: in the so-called name of national security.

More than a trillion domestic phone records are mined through this mass surveillance program every year, warrantlessly targeting not only those suspected of criminal activity but anyone with whom they might have contact, including spouses, children, parents, and friends.

Its not just law enforcement agencies investigating drug crimes who are using Hemisphere to sidestep the Fourth Amendment, either. Those who have received training on the program reportedly include postal workers, prison officials, highway patrol officers, border cops, and the National Guard.

Its a program ripe for abuse, and you can bet its getting abused.

Surveillance, digital stalking and the data mining of the American peopleweapons of compliance and control in the governments handshavent made America any safer, and they certainly arent helping to preserve our freedoms.

Indeed, America will never be safe as long as the U.S. government is allowed to shred the Constitution.

The Fourth Amendment was intended to serve as a protective forcefield around our persons, our property, our activities, our communications and our movements. It keeps the government out of our private business except in certain, extenuating circumstances.

Those extenuating circumstances are spelled out clearly: government officials must have probable cause that criminal activity is afoot (a higher legal standard than reasonable suspicion), which is required by the Constitution before any government official can search an individual or his property.

Unfortunately, all three branches of governmentthe legislatures, courts and executive officeshave given the police state all kinds of leeway when it comes to sidestepping the Fourth Amendment.

As a result, on a daily basis, Americans are already being made to relinquish the most intimate details of who we areour biological makeup, our genetic blueprints, and our biometrics (facial characteristics and structure, fingerprints, iris scans, etc.)in order to clear the nearly insurmountable hurdle that increasingly defines life in the United States: we are now guilty until proven innocent.

Warrantless, dragnet surveillance is the manifestation of a lawless government that has gone rogue in its determination to do whatever it wants, whenever it wants, the Constitution be damned.

Dragnet surveillance. Geofencing. Fusion centers. Smart devices. Behavioral threat assessments. Terror watch lists. Facial recognition. Snitch tip lines. Biometric scanners. Pre-crime. DNA databases. Data mining. Precognitive technology. Contact tracing apps.

What these add up to is a world in which, on any given day, the average person is now monitored, surveilled, spied on and tracked in more than 20 different ways by both government and corporate eyes and ears.

This creepy new era of government/corporate spyingin which were being listened to, watched, tracked, followed, mapped, bought, sold and targeted every second of every dayhas been made possible by a global army of techno-tyrants, electronic eavesdroppers, robotic snoops and digital Peeping Toms.

The government has a veritable arsenal of surveillance tools to track our movements, monitor our spending, and sniff out all the ways in which our thoughts, actions and social circles might land us on the governments naughty list, whether or not youve done anything wrong.

Rounding out the list of ways in which the Techno-Corporate State and the U.S. government are colluding to nullify the privacy rights of the individual is the Biden Administrations latest drive to harness the power of artificial intelligence technologies while claiming to protect the citizenry from harm.

In his executive order on artificial intelligence, President Biden is calling for guidelines on how the government will use AI while simultaneously insisting that corporations protect consumer privacy.

Talk about ironic that the very government that has been covertly invading our privacy rights wants to appoint itself the guardian of those rights.

Tell me this: how do you trust a government that continuously sidesteps the Constitution and undermines our rights? You cant.

A government that repeatedly lies, cheats, steals, spies, kills, maims, enslaves, breaks the laws, overreaches its authority, and abuses its power at almost every turn cant be trusted.

At a minimum, you shouldnt trust the government with your privacy, property or freedoms.

Whatever else it may bea danger, a menace, a threatthe U.S. government is certainly not looking out for our best interests.

Remember the purpose of a good government is to protect the lives and liberties of its people.

Unfortunately, what we have been saddled with is, in almost every regard, the exact opposite of an institution dedicated to protecting the lives and liberties of its people.

Indeed, the government has a history of shamelessly exploiting national emergencies for its own nefarious purposes.

Terrorist attacks, mass shootings, civil unrest, economic instability, pandemics, natural disasters: the government has been taking advantage of such crises for years now in order to gain greater power over an unsuspecting and largely gullible populace.

Thats exactly where we find ourselves now: caught in the crosshairs of a showdown between the rights of the individual and the so-called emergency state.

All of those freedoms we cherishthe ones enshrined in the Constitution, the ones that affirm our right to free speech and assembly, due process, privacy, bodily integrity, the right to not have police seize our property without a warrant, or search and detain us without probable causeamount to nothing when the government and its agents are allowed to disregard those prohibitions on government overreach at will.

This is the grim reality of life in the American police state: our so-called rights have been reduced to technicalities in the face of the governments ongoing power grabs.

While surveillance may span a broad spectrum of methods and scenarios, the common denominator remains the same: a complete disregard for the rights of the citizenry.

With every court ruling that allows the government to operate above the rule of law, every piece of legislation that limits our freedoms, and every act of government wrongdoing that goes unpunished, were slowly being conditioned to a society in which the Constitution means nothing.

Any attempt by the government to encroach upon the citizenrys privacy rights or establish a system by which the populace can be targeted, tracked, monitored and singled out must be met with extreme caution.

Dragnet surveillance in an age of pre-crime policing and overcriminalization is basically a fishing expedition carried out without a warrant, a blatant attempt to circumvent the Fourth Amendments warrant requirement and prohibition on unreasonable searches and seizures.

What we need is a digital No Trespassing sign that protects our privacy rights and affirms our right to be left alone.

Then again, as I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, what we really need is a government that respects the rights of the citizenry and obeys the law.

WC: 1358

ABOUT JOHN W. WHITEHEAD

Constitutional attorney and author John W. Whitehead is founder and president of The Rutherford Institute. His most recent books are the best-selling Battlefield America: The War on the American People, the award-winning A Government of Wolves: The Emerging American Police State, and a debut dystopian fiction novel, The Erik Blair Diaries. Whitehead can be contacted at staff@rutherford.org. Nisha Whitehead is the Executive Director of The Rutherford Institute. Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at www.rutherford.org.
On October 8th, the day after the Hamas attack, I penned an article calling bullshit on the intelligence failure narrative that emerged immediately in the aftermath  how could the governing authorities and media call it confidently an intelligence failure mere hours after the event?  just as the same narrative emerged just following the 9/11 attacks in Manhattan and DC.

Related: No, the Hamas Invasion Was Not an Israeli Intelligence Failure

Although I always take the time to carefully weigh evidence before making any definitive statements, as responsible journalists do, I didnt feel compelled to wait or hedge in this case because it was palpably clear from the start that the narrative was total propaganda and would subsequently be debunked in the coming days and weeks.

Even based on the limited evidence available on October 8th, basic logic defied the intelligence failure story:

 Gaza is among the, if not the, most heavily surveilled strips of land on Earth, both from the air (satellite and drone surveillance) and via Mossad spooks on the ground (what the so-called intelligence community calls human intelligence or humint because it loves insular jargon)

 Gaza is among the most densely populated strips of land on Earth

 The Israeli government controls all of Gazas borders in a total siege-style blockade. Nothing goes in or out without the states blessing

 The October 8 operation involved tens of thousands of operatives and a bevy of equipment that would be virtually impossible to move into and around Gaza without detection

 Hamas clearly had international financial and logistical support, which could not have flowed into the strip without detection

 Months, if not years of planning went into the operation, including erecting a mock Israeli town inside of Gaza to use for practice. Israeli intelligence literally watched these training sessions from outposts on the border.

 Hamas, sponsored by Iran, had enormous geopolitical incentive to attack when it did, as Israel was on the verge of signing normalization agreements with the Sunni Muslim world that would have threatened Iranian interests, which Israel well understood

 Netanyahus historically controversial and unpopular government was barely clinging to power at the time of the attack, the target of unprecedentedly intense and large protests. Bibi himself was on the verge of imprisonment on corruption charges. An excuse to wage what could be framed as an existential war and remain in power indefinitely  which has since transpired  was seemingly the only way to remain for Netanyahu and his hardline allies to remain in office and out of prison. This objective necessarily would have required ignoring actionable intelligence.

 And this is by no means an exhaustive list of the reasons that point to the impossibility of Israeli intelligence ignorance of the impending attack and the incentives that all parties involved had to let October 7 play out the way it did.

It subsequently came out that the substantially less powerful Egyptian intelligence, which does not operate in sovereign Israeli territory of the Gaza Strip as Mossad does, knew of the attack beforehand and warned their Israeli counterparts, which went unheeded.

And now we have further vindication.

Via The New York Times:

Israeli officials obtained Hamass battle plan for the Oct. 7 terrorist attack more than a year before it happened, documents, emails and interviews show. But Israeli military and intelligence officials dismissed the plan as aspirational, considering it too difficult for Hamas to carry out. The approximately 40-page document, which the Israeli authorities code-named Jericho Wall, outlined, point by point, exactly the kind of devastating invasion that led to the deaths of about 1,200 people. The translated document, which was reviewed by The New York Times, did not set a date for the attack, but described a methodical assault designed to overwhelm the fortifications around the Gaza Strip, take over Israeli cities and storm key military bases, including a division headquarters. Hamas followed the blueprint with shocking precision. The document called for a barrage of rockets at the outset of the attack, drones to knock out the security cameras and automated machine guns along the border, and gunmen to pour into Israel en masse in paragliders, on motorcycles and on foot  all of which happened on Oct. 7. The plan also included details about the location and size of Israeli military forces, communication hubs and other sensitive information, raising questions about how Hamas gathered its intelligence and whether there were leaks inside the Israeli security establishment. The document circulated widely among Israeli military and intelligence leaders, but experts determined that an attack of that scale and ambition was beyond Hamass capabilities, according to documents and officials.

Ben Bartee, author of Broken English Teacher: Notes From Exile, is an independent Bangkok-based American journalist with opposable thumbs.

Follow his stuff Substack if you are inclined to support independent journalism free of corporate slant. Also, keep tabs via Twitter.

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Actor Nicolas Cage speaks during the awards presentation at the SFFilm Awards at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts on Monday, Dec. 4. Drew Altizer Photography/Courtesy of SFFilm Barbie director Greta Gerwig and actor Ryan Gosling hug at the SFFilm Awards at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts on Monday, Dec. 4. Drew Altizer Photography/Courtesy of SFFilm Barbie director Greta Gerwig speaks at the SFFilm Awards at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts on Monday, Dec. 4. Drew Altizer Photography/SFFilm Nicolas Cage, Maria Manetti Shrem Lifetime Achievement Award for Acting recipient, before the 2023 SFFilm Awards Night at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco on Monday, Dec. 4. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Actor Nicolas Cage greets SFFilm representatives on the red carpet Monday. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Nicolas Cage, Maria Manetti Shrem Lifetime Achievement Award for Acting recipient, before the 2023 SFFilmAwards Night at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Cord Jefferson, the George Gund III Award for Virtuosity recipient, right, poses with his presenter, actor John Ortiz. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle John Ortiz, George Gund III Award for Virtuosity presenter, left, and Raul Castillo, Nion McEvoy & Leslie Berriman Award for Storytelling presenter, at the 2023 SFFilm Awards Night. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Actor John Ortiz, right, and SFFilm Director of Programming Jessie Fairbanks. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Raul Castillo, right, and Roger Ross Williams before SFFilm Awards Night 2023. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle SFFilm Director of Programming Jessie Fairbanks, left, and Executive Director Anne Lai. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Ryan Gosling presented the Irving M. Levin Award for Film Direction to Greta Gerwig. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Ryan Gosling, Greta Gerwig and SFFilm Executive Director Anne Lai on the red carpet before the SFFilm Awards Night at YBCA in San Francisco. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Barbie director Greta Gerwig grew up in Sacramento. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle

SFFilm took a page from the old game show Whats My Line? in kicking off this years annual Awards Night with a mystery guest.

After Executive Director Anne Lai welcomed the well-heeled crowd seated for dinner at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts on Monday, Dec. 4, and reiterated the mission of the nonprofit organization, it was time for the first of four awards: the Maria Manetti Shrem Lifetime Achievement Award for Acting, to be presented to Nicolas Cage.

Presenting the award was a previously unannounced celebrity who prompted gasps, then wild applause as musician and actor Tom Waits approached the podium.

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Actor Nicolas Cage enjoys the SFFilm Awards presentation at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts from his seat next to SFFilm Executive Director Anne Lai on Monday, Dec. 4. Actor Ryan Gosling is in the background. Drew Altizer Photography/SFFilm

Turns out he and Cage, a former San Francisco resident who revealed Monday evening that he plans to soon quit acting in movies, have known each other since the Oscar-winning actor was a teenager working for Waits as a driver. Waits said Cage hasnt changed much since then, even after a successful career heading into its fifth decade.

He was the same as a teenager. It was troublesome for his family and other people around him, Waits joked. He needed some kind of a swimming pool to put that (talent) all in, and Im sure glad that he has that now.

If the YBCA was a pool, then the several hundred guests were swimming in the deep end, talent-wise. Also honored were Barbie director Greta Gerwig, who was presented the Irving M. Levin Award for Film Direction by her Ken, Ryan Gosling; Cassandro director Roger Ross Williams, who was presented the Nion McEvoy & Leslie Berriman Award for Storytelling by actor Raul Castillo; and Cord Jefferson, writer-director of the upcoming American Fiction, who was presented the George Gund III Award for Virtuosity by actor John Ortiz.

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Musician and actor Tom Waits introduces Nicolas Cage at the SFFilm Awards Night at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts on Monday, Dec. 4. Drew Altizer Photography/Courtesy SFFilm

Cage, who had previously been honored by SFFilm with the Peter J. Owens Award for Excellence in Acting in 1998, set the tone for the evening with a humble speech that paid tribute to others, starting with Gosling, who he said is my favorite current actor.

What you do onscreen, what you do with our craft, keeps me interested, Cage told Gosling from the stage.

Then, keeping with the water theme, Cage emphasized, what were really here to do tonight is so important. Were raising funds and were putting it back into the river so other budding filmmakers can realize their visions of cinema.

Indeed, part of SFFilms mission is to provide grants, residencies, fellowships and other resources for up-and-coming filmmakers. Williams, the first Black filmmaker to win an Oscar for direction (for the 2009 short documentary Music by Prudence), noted that he received an SFFilm grant that helped him fund his 2013 documentary God Loves Uganda.

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Film director Roger Ross Williams is the Nion McEvoy & Leslie Berriman Award for Storytelling recipient. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle

Gosling was so moved by what SFFilm does that he surprised everyone during the evenings pledge drive by donating $20,000. Normally, celebrities invited to SFFilm Awards Night are expected to donate their time, not their money; just by showing up, they make the evening a success.

A few minutes later, Gerwig matched Gosling with a $20,000 pledge of her own.

As of Tuesday, Dec. 5, SFFilm had not released the tallied total of money raised Monday night, but the pledge drive was active and lasted several minutes, and tickets for the event ranged from $1,000 to $12,000.

Jefferson paid tribute to the namesake of his award, the late SFFilm executive George Gund III, the longtime film enthusiast and former San Jose Sharks owner who died in 2013. And the filmmaker, who never met Gund, did his research  hes a former journalist, after all.

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He realized that he could change peoples lives, said Jefferson, noting that Gund used his wealth to lift others, a pointed message to the potential donors in the crowd. He realized that in order to actually bring in marginalized filmmakers from the fringes, you have to take risks.

Barbie actor Ryan Gosling introduces director Greta Gerwig at the SFFilm Awards at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts on Monday, Dec. 4. Drew Altizer Photography/Courtesy of SFFilm

The evening was capped by a hilarious performance from the comedy team of Gosling and Gerwig.

First, Gosling, in his introduction, tried to describe how wonderful and talented Gerwig is by reading an increasingly silly series of metaphors, rejecting each one as inadequate by furrowing his brow and scribbling through his paper with a pen.

Try and imagine if Elaine May and Mike Nichols had a daughter, he said to laughter from the crowd, whose grandparents were John Ford and Hedy Lamarr. And that daughter attended the convent from the Sound of Music. And her music teachers are Bryan Ferry and Stephen Sondheim. And she took up fencing with her gym teacher, Joan of Arc.  This is not going to work. This isnt doing her justice.  The only way to really get the full picture is to meet her yourself.

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Gerwig, who was born and raised in Sacramento, stammered that whenever I have to give a speech and get in front of a microphone, I become a fifth-grader who is giving a report about Jonas Salk.

Barbie director Greta Gerwig at SFFilm Awards Night on Monday. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle

She also extolled San Francisco as an inspirational city.

Every time I come here, including today, I play We Built This City by Starship, she said, referring to the San Francisco band that evolved from Jefferson Airplane and Jefferson Starship.

But she quickly got serious and spoke of the complex collaboration involved in making a movie and how that needs support, saying my work as a director is primarily to give the architecture for everyone else, to bring their own art and their triumphs and their fears and their ecstasies to the party.
Elena Kadvany joined The San Francisco Chronicle as a food reporter in 2021. Previously, she was a staff writer at the Palo Alto Weekly and its sister publications, where she covered restaurants and education and also founded the Peninsula Foodist restaurant column and newsletter.

She can be reached at Elena.Kadvany@sfchronicle.com.
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Income from corporation tax was on the upside of expectations in November, Minister for Finance Michael McGrath has said.

Figures published on Tuesday show total tax receipts for the 11 months to the end of November amounted to 82 billion, which was 4.5 billion (5.8 per cent) ahead of the same period last year.

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Speaking on RTE radios Morning Ireland, Mr McGrath pointed out that there had been three consecutive months where the data had been weak relative to the same month last year.

He added that November was always the most significant month for returns, because of the corporation tax returns and also the self-assessed income tax returns.

It was likely that there was a link that was sector-specific, even company-specific, the Minister said.

However, the nature of such returns is volatile, he warned, adding that the Government has consistently been stressing this point.

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These receipts are very volatile in nature. We had weakness for three months, and now we have volatility on the upside, which is good.

This is positive news, and we should welcome it because it does mean overall that we will now achieve our overall budgetary targets for the year, a significant surplus.

Mr McGrath said the returns put the State in a strong position heading into the new year, but again warned of the high level of concentration in relation to multinationals, and even within that a relatively small number of multinationals.

He added: That's why we have to be so careful in the decisions that we make with these receipts. We certainly cannot spend them on permanent recurring expenditure, our taxation commitments.

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What we are doing is we are significantly increasing public capital investment. That means building more homes, more schools, more investment in public transport and so on, and then we will now be proceeding to set up the two new funds that I announced in the budget to meet costs that are coming our way in the coming years. Demographic costs, but also climate costs associated with the climate transition, the cost of digitalisation and so on.

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Mr McGrath said that given the volatility of such tax receipts, they could not be relied upon in the future. However, he added that reduced corporation tax in the future is not going to happen overnight.

We have very significant changes in terms of the international corporation tax landscape. We are just legislating now for the transposition of the EU minimum tax directive, which is the OECD global deal. So the rate will move to 15 per cent.

He explained the 15 per cent-rate, which will onlyy apply to the largest companies, with turnover in excess of 750 million, will commence from January 1st, but the additional revenues that come from that increased rate don't flow until mid 2026.

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Other pillars of the OECD agreement remained under negotiation, Mr McGrath added, such as the reallocation of taxing rights to larger markets, which he warned will come at a cost to Ireland.

We believe our central scenario will remain broadly stable, but we do believe in time that the level of receipts could begin to fall off as you have the full implementation of pillar one and indeed pillar two of the OECD agreement.

Donohoe departure?

Commenting on reports that his Government colleague, Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe may be eyeing a move to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Mr McGrath said any such decision was a personal matter for Mr Donohoe.

What I would say is that he has all of the qualities and credentials and experience necessary to fulfil that role, and isn't it a great thing that a member of the Irish Government is being associated with the position of managing director of one of the most important global economic bodies?

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It's a matter for him to come to a personal view ultimately. I know what he has said through his spokesperson about the desire to serve the full term as president of the Eurogroup and to contest the next election.

My own view is that we should allow Minister Donohoe the time and space as this develops over the months ahead to come to a final view on this.

Mr McGrath also noted that it is not yet clear whether the IMF's current managing director, Kristalina Georgieva, will seek a second term.

As for his own future aspirations, Mr McGrath was asked if he would like to be European Commissioner, to which the Fianna Fail TD said he loves the job he has, adding that he wants to bring forward another budget and contest the next general election.
Boris Johnson has said he takes personal responsibility for mistakes made in the handling of the pandemic as he apologised to victims at the UK Covid-19 Inquiry.

The former UK prime minister said his government should have unquestionably done things differently but insisted we did our level best in very difficult circumstances.

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His highly-anticipated appearance was hit by protests as he began issuing an apology to victims of the pandemic.

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Four people were removed from the hearing room after they held up signs reading: The Dead cant hear your apologies.

Can I just say how glad I am to be at this inquiry and how sorry I am for the pain and the loss and the suffering of the Covid victims, Mr Johnson said.

He went on to acknowledge that his government made errors, saying: So many people suffered, so many people lost their lives.

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Inevitably, in the course of trying to handle a very, very difficult pandemic in which we had to balance appalling harms on either side of the decision, we may have made mistakes.

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Mr Johnson also said: I take personal responsibility for all the decisions that we made.

Protesters outside the UK Covid-19 Inquiry at Dorland House in London (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Among the decisions he takes responsibility for are the speed of the UK governments response to the pandemic in 2020, the lockdown decisions and their timeliness, the explosion of the virus in the residential care sector, the Eat Out to Help Out scheme, and the decision not to introduce a circuit-breaker later in 2020, he confirmed.

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He said: With hindsight, it may be easy to see things that we could have done differently, or it may be possible to see things that we could have done differently.

At the time, I felt, and I know that everybody else felt, that we were doing our best in very difficult circumstances to protect life and protect the NHS.

The only easy decision during the pandemic was to roll out the vaccines, Mr Johnson said.

He claimed he was not sure whether government decision-making had led to materially a larger number of excess deaths as a result of the pandemic.

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Boris Johnson is questioned by lead counsel to the inquiry Hugo Keith KC (UK Covid-19 Inquiry/PA)

Pressed repeatedly on why the UK had such a high rate of excess deaths  the second-worst in Europe after Italy  he cited headwinds, including an extremely elderly population with many health issues and being a very densely populated country, which did not help.

He defended the lockdowns as very important but acknowledged there is no denying the damage that was done.

Mr Johnson admitted he may have only read Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) minutes once or twice, adding that, in retrospect, it may have been valuable to have done so.

However, he said he relied on Englands chief medical officer Professor Sir Chris Whitty and former chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance who jointly chaired Sage.

Mr Johnson defended keeping former UK health secretary Matt Hancock in his post, despite calls from his aide Dominic Cummings that he should have been sacked.

He said Mr Hancock may have had defects but I thought that he was doing his best in very difficult circumstances and I thought he was a good communicator.

Baroness Heather Hallett is leading the inquiry (UK Covid-19 Inquiry/PA)

He was also grilled on what previous witnesses to the inquiry have described as a toxic atmosphere in Downing Street and the influence of Mr Cummings, his chief adviser at the time.

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Mr Johnson said his No 10 was made up of a lot of highly talented, highly motivated people who are stricken with anxiety about what is happening about the pandemic, who are doing their best and who, like all human beings under great stress and great anxiety about themselves and their own performance, will be inclined to be critical of others.

Before Mr Johnsons evidence commenced, Lady Hallett complained about the briefings to the press, saying that leaks of the witness statement undermined the process.

She said: Failing to respect confidentiality undermines the inquirys ability to do its job fairly, effectively and independently.

UK Home Office minister Chris Philp earlier joked its the first time Boris has ever been early for anything after the former prime minister arrived at the inquiry venue around three hours before the start of the hearing, meaning he avoided many of the protesters who gathered outside.
The US air force has recovered the remains of six of the eight service members who were lost when their Osprey crashed off the coast of Japan last week.

Efforts will now focus on recovering the two bodies still missing and the aircraft debris, Air Force Special Operations Command said.

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The CV-22B Osprey crashed on November 29th during a training mission.

Ospreys have had a number of crashes, including in Japan, where they are used at US and Japanese military bases, and the latest has rekindled safety concerns.

Three bodies were recovered from the sunken wreckage, and a total of six of the eight crew members remains that had been located have now been recovered, the US air force said. The search continues for the remains of the two crew members still unaccounted for.

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Lt Gen Tony Bauernfeind said: The depth of sorrow is immeasurable.

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Debris believed to be from a US military Osprey aircraft is seen off the coast of Yakushima Island in Kagoshima (Japan Coast Guard via AP)

The honourable service of these eight airmen to this great nation will never be forgotten, as they are now among the giants who shape our history.

US president Joe Biden said he and first lady Jill Biden were heartbroken by the loss.

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We owe them everything, Mr Biden said in a statement. Jill and I are praying for the families and friends who lost a loved one in this terrible accident.

The lost crew members were:

Maj Jeffrey T Hoernemann (32), of Andover, Minnesota; Maj Eric V Spendlove (36), of St George, Utah; Maj Luke A Unrath (34), of Riverside, California; Capt Terrell K Brayman (32), of Pittsford, New York; Tech Sgt Zachary E Lavoy (33), of Oviedo, Florida; Staff Sgt Jake M Turnage (25), of Kennesaw, Georgia; Senior Airman Brian K Johnson (32), of Reynoldsburg, Ohio; Staff Sgt Jacob 'Jake' M Galliher (24), of Pittsfield, Massachusetts.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida sent a message to Mr Biden, offering his heartfelt condolences to the families of those who were lost and to the American people and his thanks for their dedication away from home for the peace and stability of Japan and the region.

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The US-made Osprey is a hybrid aircraft that takes off and lands like a helicopter but can rotate its propellers forward and cruise much faster, like a plane, during flight.

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The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Japan has suspended all flights of its own fleet of 14 Ospreys. Japanese officials say they have asked the US military to resume Osprey flights only after ensuring their safety. However, the Pentagon said no such formal request has been made and that the American military is continuing to fly 24 MV-22s, the Marine version of Ospreys, deployed on the southern Japanese island of Okinawa.

Adm Ryo Sakai, chief of staff of the Japanese navy, pledged continued support for the search and recovery operation.
Three people were taken to hospital on Wednesday after a gunman opened fire on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

The sheriff said there was no further threat after police located a suspect, who ended up dead.

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Right now, we know there are 3 victims, but unknown extent of the injuries, Sheriff Kevin McMahill said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. That number could change.

He did not say whether any victims had been killed.





URGENT: From Sheriff Kevin McMahill: "No more threat to the community. The suspect is deceased. Right now, we know there are 3 victims, but unknown extent of the injuries. That number could change. We will update you when we know more." https://t.co/Y3jT9VcNFz Advertisement  LVMPD (@LVMPD) December 6, 2023

So I dont want to give you false information and tell you how many victims that we have. But we will be providing that update very, very shortly.

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Police were called about an active gunman on campus at 11.45am on Wednesday, said Adam Garcia, a university police official.

He said officers found and engaged a suspect, who is now dead. It was not clear how the suspect died.

The university said on X, formerly Twitter, that the gunman was at the Beam Hall, Frank and Estella Building, home of UNLVs Lee Business School, and that police were responding to an additional report of shots fired at the nearby student union.

Las Vegas police posted on X that a suspect has been located and is deceased about 40 minutes after the initial alert was posted.

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Las Vegas Metro Police respond to the shooting (Lucas Peltier/AP)

Students and the community were alerted to the emergency by a university post on X.

This is not a test, the university wrote. RUN-HIDE-FIGHT.

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Student Matthew Felsenfeld said he and about 12 classmates barricaded their door in a building near the student union.

Its the moment you call your parents and tell them you love them, said Mr Felsenfeld, 21, a journalism student.

He said he did not hear gunfire or see anyone injured but said he saw out of the windows as police prepared to enter the neighbouring building. A short while later, police arrived and ushered them out.

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A University of Nevada, Las Vegas, student speaks on his phone after a the shooting (Lucas Peltier/AP)

Pierre Lescure, a senior student, was riding his bicycle from home to campus for a meeting when he said about 10 police cars drove pass him.

They drove too fast and there was no ambulance, just cops. It was clearly a shooting, Mr Lescure said. It could not be something else.

An Associated Press reporter saw a team of officers with FBI insignia move as a group on to campus just before 1pm, soon after police reported the dead suspect.

University officials on social media urged anyone on campus to continue sheltering in place, saying: This remains an active investigation.

UNLV has more than 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students at its 332-acre campus, which is less than two miles east of the Las Vegas Strip.

The shooting took place in a city still scarred by one of the worst mass killings in US history, the October 1, 2017, shooting at the Mandalay Bay casino in Las Vegas, in which 60 were killed and hundreds more wounded.

The UNLV campus is just over three miles from that location.
Hillsborough families have vowed to continue campaigning for a law which they describe as a legacy to the victims of the disaster, after the British government stopped short of introducing the legislation.

On Wednesday, ministers apologised for delays as they published a response to former bishop of Liverpool the Right Rev James Joness report into the experiences of families of the 97 victims of the tragedy, which happened at the 1989 FA Cup semi-final at the Sheffield Wednesday stadium.

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The British government said it had signed up to a Hillsborough Charter, pledging to place the public interest above its own reputation, but said a Hillsborough Law incorporating a legal duty of candour was not necessary.

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Campaigner Margaret Aspinall, whose 18-year-old son James Aspinall was one of the victims of the tragedy, said: To me, its like giving a child a packet of crisps but when you open it theres nothing in it.

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Its as simple as that. To me that definitely does not go far enough.

We will be arguing for a Hillsborough Law, thats the most important thing to me.

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The Right Rev James Jones holding the Hillsborough report at the Capital Building in Liverpool. Photo: Peter Byrne/PA.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak told the Commons he was profoundly sorry for what the Hillsborough families had been through and hoped to meet them in the new year.

Home Secretary James Cleverly and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk said they were deeply sorry for the delay in responding to Mr Joness recommendations, published in 2017, and acknowledged it had taken too long, compounding the agony of the Hillsborough families and survivors.

Jenni Hicks, mother of Hillsborough victims Sarah, 19, and Vicki, 15, said: I think were way past apologies really, we passed apologies a long time ago.

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It was frustrating to wait this long and, reading the report, I dont know what on earths taken them six years to respond because a lot of the things theyre talking about still need a lot of consultations, still havent been agreed.

In his report, Mr Jones called for the British government to give full consideration to a Hillsborough Law or Public Authority (Accountability) Bill, which would include a legal duty of candour on public authorities and officials to tell the truth and proactively co-operate with official investigations and inquiries.

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But the response stated the British government was not aware of any gaps in legislation or clarifications needed that would further encourage a culture of candour among public servants in law.

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The Hillsborough memorial at Anfield stadium. Photo: Peter Byrne/PA.

It is understood the British government believes that adopting the duty of candour would risk creating conflict and confusion because of the framework of duties and obligations already developed since the disaster.

Deanna Matthews, whose uncle Brian died at Hillsborough, said she believed the Government response was misguided.

She said: Its quite clear to see that the legislation that we would want to be introduced by the Hillsborough Law doesnt exist in the format that we would propose that it needs to be.

Yes, there are various different duties over various different departments or public sectors but theres not one unifying piece of legislation that brings it all together neatly under one header.

Ms Matthews mother, Debbie, said they would not give up the campaign.

She added: If we do get the Hillsborough Law thats going to be the legacy to our loved ones. Its not going to help us but hopefully it will help other people who find themselves in a situation where theyre up against the state.

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In its report, the Government said the families and survivors were entirely justified in their frustration with the evasiveness they experienced from public officials.

But it said much had changed in terms of expectations and requirements on public officials since 1989.

It said that continuing to drive and encourage a culture of candour among public servants was essential and an important part of the Hillsborough Charter, which Deputy prime minister Oliver Dowden had signed on behalf of the British government.

By signing the charter for families bereaved through public tragedy, proposed by Mr Jones, leaders of public bodies commit to place the public interest above their own reputations, approach forms of public scrutiny  including public inquiries and inquests  with candour, and avoid seeking to defend the indefensible.

The British government response also states that it will consult on expanding the provision of legal aid for inquests following public disasters.

Mr Jones, who was with Hillsborough families in Liverpool when the Government response was published, said it was a serious and substantial response.

He said: The purpose of my report was to ensure that the pain and suffering of the Hillsborough families is not repeated. I say to the government and to the families that this will be the test of these measures.

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The government has made significant changes and I will continue to press for further action.

Inquests into the deaths at the match, played between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest on April 15 1989, concluded in 2016 and found the victims were unlawfully killed and errors by the police and ambulance service caused or contributed to their deaths.

The match commander on the day, David Duckenfield, was charged with gross negligence manslaughter in 2017 but he was cleared in 2019 at a retrial, after the jury in his first trial was unable to reach a verdict.

In 2021, retired officers Donald Denton and Alan Foster and former force solicitor Peter Metcalf, who were accused of amending statements to minimise the blame on South Yorkshire Police, were acquitted of perverting the course of justice after a judge ruled there was no case to answer.
Rishi Sunak has been rocked by the resignation of his immigration minister after rejecting demands to opt out of European human rights laws to revive the Rwanda policy.

Robert Jenrick told the British prime minister on Wednesday that his new draft legislation aimed at stopping small boat crossings does not go far enough and is a triumph of hope over experience.

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Mr Sunaks long-term political ally argued that he had to quit because he has such strong disagreements with the Governments approach to immigration.

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Mr Jenrick had been seen as taking an increasingly firm approach over plans to stop asylum seekers making unauthorised crossings of the Channel in small boats in recent weeks.

The draft Bill compels judges to treat Rwanda as a safe country after the Supreme Court ruled the scheme was unlawful over risks to refugees.

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The legislation, which must be voted on by Parliament, gives ministers the powers to disregard sections of the Human Rights Act.

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Former home secretary Suella Braverman. Photo: Maria Unger/UK Parliament/PA.

But it does not go as far as providing powers to dismiss the European Convention on Human Rights, as hardliners including sacked home secretary Suella Braverman have demanded.

Mrs Bravermans allies made clear that the legislation is fatally flawed, indicating that she believes it will quickly lead the Tories into electoral oblivion.

Mr Sunak reportedly told Conservative backbenchers at the 1922 Committee shortly before Mr Jenricks resignation became apparent that they must unite or die.

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The immigration minister had been conspicuously absent during a statement to the Commons on the new legislation by James Cleverly, who has been Home Secretary for less than a month.

It is with great sadness that I have written to the Prime Minister to tender my resignation as Minister for Immigration.



I cannot continue in my position when I have such strong disagreements with the direction of the Governments policy on immigration. pic.twitter.com/Zg3ezFJr8t  Robert Jenrick (@RobertJenrick) December 6, 2023 Advertisement

Shortly after Mr Cleverly confirmed the resignation of the minister from his department, Mr Jenrick published his departure letter to the British prime minister on social media.

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He said he was grateful for Mr Sunak moving towards his position on the legislation, but added he does not believe it provides us with the best possible chance of success.

A Bill of the kind you are proposing is a triumph of hope over experience, he wrote.

The stakes for the country are too high for us not to pursue the stronger protections required to end the merry-go-round of legal challenges which risk paralysing the scheme and negating its intended deterrent.

Having supported Mr Sunak in both of last years Tory leadership contests, Mr Jenrick reminded him that they have been friends for a long time, but said they must do whatever it takes to stop small boats crossing the Channel.

This emergency legislation is the last opportunity to prove this, but in its current drafting it does not go far enough, he added.

Mr Sunak wrote back to Mr Jenrick to tell him his resignation was disappointing.

I fear that your departure is based on a fundamental misunderstanding of the situation.

It is our experience that gives us confidence that this will work, Mr Sunak said.

If we were to oust the courts entirely, we would collapse the entire scheme.

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The British prime minister pointed to Rwandas claim that they would not accept the UK breaching international law, adding: There would be no point in passing a law that would leave us with nowhere to send people to.

Mr Cleverly wrote on the front page of the legislation that he cannot guarantee that it is compatible with the European Convention on Human Rights.

The Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill states that it is the judgment of Parliament that the Republic of Rwanda is a safe country.

The Bill says that every decision-maker  specifically mentioning the courts  must conclusively treat the Republic of Rwanda as a safe country.

It states that ministers will decide whether to ignore interim measures issued by the European Court of Human Rights which have previously scuppered flights.

Combined with the new legally binding treaty brokered with Rwanda, the Government hopes they can get the policy first announced in April last year off the ground.

The publication of the legislation came after Mrs Braverman warned the Tories face electoral oblivion in a matter of months if the legislation introduced is destined to fail.

The sacked home secretary, who commands support on the partys right, said the Bill must contain powers to override the European Convention on Human Rights and all other international law.

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But complying with her demands would have left Mr Sunak facing other possible ministerial resignations, an outcry from his MPs from the more centrist One Nation faction and an even rougher ride for the Bill through the House of Lords.

The Tory left has urged ministers to ensure the country follows rule of law rather than trying to undermine the oversight of the Strasbourg court.

A source close to Mrs Braverman quickly made clear that the Bill doesnt come close to meeting her tests, arguing asylum seekers will still be able to make human rights appeals against removals.

It is fatally flawed, the ally said.

It will be bogged down in the courts for months and months. And it wont stop the boats. It is a further betrayal of Tory voters and the decent patriotic majority who want to see this insanity brought to an end.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer called the Rwanda deal a gimmick at PMQs. Photo: House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA.

The One Nation grouping, however, cautiously welcomed that the draft legislation will continue to meet the UKs international commitments which uphold the rule of law.

The right-wing European Research Group (ERG) will assemble its so-called star chamber of lawyers to scrutinise the legislation before the Commons vote.

Rwandas foreign affairs minister Vincent Biruta argued that Kigali would have walked out of the deal, which has already seen the UK hand over 140 million, if the British government had sought to break international law.

Without lawful behaviour by the UK, Rwanda would not be able to continue with the Migration and Economic Development Partnership, he said.
Jeff Durham, left, and Joey Woosz are the founders of the Bungalow  and the cooks. Courtesy Kent Luetzen

When you walk through the front door of their low-slung bungalow in downtown Napa, Jeff Durham and Joey Woosz want you to come on in to the kitchen.

The husbands and partners behind small Napa winery Gentleman Farmer Wines would want the same at their own house in Yountville. And now that theyve given this 1926 downtown Napa bungalow a big B, dubbing it The Bungalow: A Studio for Gustatory Well-Being, their invitation is the same. We want everything here to be like home, said Durham.

After a ribbon cutting on Friday, Dec. 8, the small, reimagined residence will be where you can taste Gentleman Farmer wines. But they arent calling it a tasting room. The backdrop for their bottles will be full-on meals, cooked by Woosz and Durham themselves. (Its not a restaurant, either.)

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This isnt their first time behind a stove. Inspired by a home lunch they experienced a few years ago on a winery visit in Bordeaux, France, theyve paired Gentleman Farmer wines with their home cooking for a few years now. The new Bungalow is a place for them to expand the orbit around those bottles  adding art, music and more in the space they call a studio.

The Bungalow: A Studio for Gustatory Well-Being opens Dec. 8 in downtown Napa. Courtesy Kent Luetzen

Guests can reserve tasting experiences built around breakfast ($90 per person), lunch ($250 per person) or dinner ($450 per person).

For early risers, Durham might take you on a 5K run, or Woosz may lead you in a guided meditation, before the two ply you with Chardonnay over green-sauced chilaquiles or a souffle.

A six-course lunch might involve pierogi (Wooszs Polish grandmothers recipe), spinach and ricotta dumplings known as malfatti (Durhams Italian grandmothers recipe) or beef bourguignon pot pie (a nod to their French inspiration).

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This is not a hobby project, said Woosz. The creme fraiche for the Polish dumplings is homemade, the tomato sauce for the malfatti is from scratch and the pastry for the pot pie laminated by hand. With this foundational cooking, as Durham puts it, the pair is all-in.

Souffle is one of the highlights at the Bungalow, the new Napa studio from Gentleman Farmer Wines merging wine tasting with food, art and a homey vibe. Courtesy Jak Wonderly

Hospitality runs deep for these two, separately and together. They both studied hotel & restaurant management at Cal Poly Pomona at the same time  same school, same major, same friends, said Durham. Yet they actually met in San Francisco in a bar in the Castro some years later.

They founded a colorful hotel called the Redwood Riverwalk 25 years ago in the small town of Fortuna in Humboldt County (and sold it earlier this year). At the Bungalow, they are extending their creative vision with a setting designed for artistic pursuits and events.

There will be a piano in the corner. Maybe an accordion too. Woosz plays the latter in a band called Phat Ankle, which has generously  Durhams word  written in a part for Durhams instrument, the clarinet.

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Light fixtures are rescued from parents houses, flatware from grandmothers and aunts cabinets, found objects from the fire station across the street, where Durhams father worked. Depression glass shares space with Le Creuset on kitchen shelves. And the surrounding decor in the main room conjures California, from sand through fog to redwood forest  and poppies.

Guests enjoy lunch at the Bungalow, a new space where you can taste Gentleman Farmer Wines with food cooked by the vintners. Courtesy Kent Luetzen

Gentleman Farmer Wines dates back to 2005, albeit under a different label then. The wine project was a natural for Durham, who grew up in the valley  a boon for strategic vineyard sourcing for Napa Cabernet, red blends and Chardonnay, as well as Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir.

Woosz, though, studied at UC Davis and became the winemaker.

With attention on the Bungalow, however, Woosz has stepped back to an oversight role, leaving hands-on duty to consulting winemaker Jerome Chery. They want to make good on the promise that when customers come to the Bungalow  where the outsize kitchen, with its blue tile and butcher block island, is a ringer for a home version in spite of its telltale commercial appliances  it will be for a meal cooked by the vintners themselves. Reality demands only a prep cook and dishwasher.

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The Bungalow

1564 First St., Napa

Breakfast, lunch and dinner by appointment.

Reservations available at https://gentlemanfarmerwines.com/experiences/

Walk-ins welcome on a space-available basis for bottle service (home-cooked dish included). Monthly evening soirees will start early next year. The space is also available for private events.
Norman Lear, the writer, director and producer who revolutionised US prime time television with shows such as All In The Family and Maude, has died aged 101.

Lear died on Tuesday night in his sleep, surrounded by family at his home in Los Angeles, said Lara Bergthold, a spokesperson for his family.

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A liberal activist, Lear fashioned bold and controversial comedies that were embraced by viewers who had to watch the evening news to find out what was going on in the world.

His shows helped define prime time comedy in the 1970s, launched the careers of Rob Reiner and Valerie Bertinelli and made middle-aged superstars of Carroll OConnor, Bea Arthur and Redd Foxx.

All In The Family was based on the classic British TV comedy Till Death Us Do Part, which gave the world Alf Garnett. The US version of Johnny Speights creation, developed by Lear, was immersed in the headlines of the day, while also drawing upon Lears childhood memories of his tempestuous father.

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All In The Familys cast (AP)

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Racism, feminism, and the Vietnam War were flashpoints as blue collar conservative Archie Bunker  Warren Mitchells character Alf Garnett, retooled for American audiences and played by OConnor  clashed with liberal son-in-law Mike Stivic (Reiner).

Jean Stapleton co-starred as Archies befuddled but good-hearted wife, Edith, and Sally Struthers played the Bunkers daughter, Gloria, who defended her husband in arguments with Archie.

By the end of 1971, All In The Family was number one in the ratings and Archie Bunker was a pop culture fixture, with then-US president Richard Nixon among his fans.

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Some of his putdowns became catchphrases. He called his son-in-law Meathead and his wife Dingbat, and would also snap at anyone who dared occupy his faded orange-yellow wing chair.

It was the centrepiece of the Bunkers rowhouse in the New York City borough of Queens and eventually became an artefact in the Smithsonians National Museum of American History.

Hits continued for Lear and then-partner Bud Yorkin, including Maude and The Jeffersons, both spin-offs from All In The Family, and both the same winning combination of one-liners and social conflict.



Lear worked well into his 90s (AP)

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In a 1972 two-part episode of Maude, the title character (played by Arthur) became the first on television to have an abortion, drawing a surge of protests along with the shows high ratings.

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Nixon himself objected to an All In The Family episode about a close friend of Archies who turns out to be gay, privately fuming to White House aides that the show glorified same-sex relationships.

Controversy suggests people are thinking about something. But thered better be laughing first and foremost, or its a dog, Lear said in a 1994 interview with The Associated Press.

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Lears business success enabled him to express his ardent political beliefs beyond the small screen. In 2000, he and a partner bought a copy of the Declaration of Independence for 8.14 million US dollars (6.45 million) and sent it on a cross-country tour.

He was an active donor to Democratic candidates and founded the non-profit liberal advocacy group People for the American Way in 1980, he said, because people such as evangelists Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson were abusing religion.

I started to say, This is not my America. You dont mix politics and religion this way, Lear said in a 1992 interview with Commonweal magazine.

The youthful Lear created television well into his 90s, rebooting One Day At A Time for Netflix in 2017 and exploring income inequality for the documentary series America Divided in 2016.

Known for his shrewd and fruitful business dealings in movies, home video, pay TV and cable ownership, by 1986, Lear was on Forbes magazines list of the 400 richest people in America, with an estimated net worth of 225 million dollars (178 million).

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He did not make the cut the next year after a 112 million dollar (88.7 million) divorce settlement for his second wife, Frances. They had been married 29 years and had two daughters.

He married his third wife, psychologist Lyn Davis, in 1987 and the couple had three children. Frances Lear, who went on to found the now-defunct Lears magazine with her settlement, died in 1996 at age 73.
Boris Johnson has admitted he should not have shaken hands with patients during a hospital visit during the early days of the pandemic.

Giving evidence to the official UK Covid-19 Inquiry on Wednesday, he conceded he should have been more precautionary at the time.

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At a press conference in early March 2020, the then British prime minister boasted that he was continuing to greet people with a handshake.

I was at a hospital the other night where I think there were actually a few coronavirus patients. And I shook hands with everybody youll be pleased to know, he told the presser.

Mr Johnson acknowledged this was a mistake when lead counsel to the inquiry Hugo Keith KC asked him about shaking hands with Covid patients at the Royal Free Hospital in north London on March 1st 2020.

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The former British prime minister told the UK Covid-19 Inquiry: I shouldnt have done that, in retrospect, and I should have been more precautionary  but I wanted to be encouraging to people.

He indicated he was not aware of official advice advising against such greetings.

That is despite No 10s scientific advisers having urged his government to issue a public message against shaking hands on the same day of his March 3rd press conference.

Mr Johnson still made a point of shaking hands with TV presenter Phillip Schofield and others days later.

Weeks later, the then-prime minister was struck down by coronavirus.
Rescuers have recovered the body of the final missing climber after an Indonesian volcano eruption, taking the death toll to 23.

West Sumatra police chief Suharyono said the dead climber was found early on Wednesday, close to where Mount Marapi erupted on Sunday.

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It is believed 75 climbers were on the 2,900 metre mountain, with 52 rescued after the initial eruption.

Abdul Malik, chief of the Padang Search and Rescue Agency, said fresh eruptions on Monday and Tuesday spewed more hot ash as high as 800 metres into the air, reducing visibility and temporarily halting search and recovery operations.

Rescuers carry a victim of the eruption (Ardhy Fernando/AP)

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According to Indonesias Centre for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation, Marapi has stayed at the third highest of four alert levels since 2011, indicating above-normal volcanic activity under which climbers and villagers must stay more than 1.8 miles from the peak.

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Climbers were only allowed below the danger zone and had to register at two command posts or online, but local officials acknowledge many people may have climbed higher than permitted.

Marapi spewed thick columns of ash as high as 3,000 metres in Sundays eruption, and hot ash clouds spread for several kilometres (miles).

Nearby villages and towns were blanketed by tons of volcanic debris that blocked sunlight, and authorities recommended that people wear masks to protect themselves from the ash.

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Marapi is known for sudden eruptions that are difficult to predict because the source is shallow and near the peak, and its eruptions are not caused by a deep movement of magma, which sets off tremors that register on seismic monitors.

The volcano has been active since a January eruption that caused no casualties.
UK prime minister Rishi Sunak is under pressure from all wings of his party as Tory MPs await the promised Rwanda legislation set to accompany the newly signed treaty with Kigali.

Designed to designate Rwanda a safe destination and address the concerns that saw the UK Supreme Court deem the UK governments flagship asylum policy unlawful, the Bill could be published in a matter of days.

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But its likely contents have already divided Tory MPs, with fears that too radical an approach could prompt ministerial resignations.

Centrist MPs have pushed Mr Sunak to respect the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and other international obligations, but right-wingers want him to take a hardline stance on the role of the European Court of Human Rights and human rights law to get flights off the ground as soon as possible.

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According to The Times, Mr Sunak has rejected calls for the UK to opt out of or exclude the ECHR in asylum cases but may be considering disapplying parts of the Human Rights Act  which gives domestic legal effect to the ECHR  to prevent court challenges to deportation flights.

Members of the right-wing European Research Group (ERG), as well as MPs from the Common Sense and New Conservative groupings, met in Parliament on Tuesday hours after UK home secretary James Cleverly celebrated the treaty agreement.

The groups so-called star chamber of lawyers are set to scrutinise the legislation before MPs vote on it, as ERG chairperson Mark Francois warned that MPs would not be bounced into backing the legislation without the time to assess it.

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But Tory MPs from the One Nation faction have urged ministers to ensure the country follows rule of law rather than trying to undermine the oversight of the Strasbourg court.

Former UK cabinet minister Damian Green said he did not want to see tinkering with UK obligations under the ECHR or the Refugee Convention but to get on with the Rwanda plan.

He warned that it would be the wrong thing for this country to do, bad for our international reputation, while also making it pretty much impossible for any Bill to make it through the UK's House of Lords.

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Damian Green (Yui Mok/PA)

The UKs top court last month blocked the Rwanda policy over concerns that genuine refugees could be wrongly sent back to their countries of origin where they would face persecution.

In an attempt to rectify this, the new treaty means British and Commonwealth judges will preside over a newly established appeals process within Rwandas high court for exceptional cases.

Another key measure is a commitment that no-one will be removed by Rwanda to any other country except the UK.

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Experts from the UK will also be seconded to Rwanda to assist with the processing of asylum decisions.

People sent to Rwanda will have free legal assistance funded by the taxpayer throughout the process.

Mr Cleverly said no new money was directly connected to the document after disputed reports of a 15 million top-up payment, but did not rule out additional costs in the future.

After signing the deal with Mr Cleverly, Rwandas foreign affairs minister Vincent Biruta expressed his frustration at the judgment by some of the UKs top justices.

He suggested internal UK politics may have played a role and said his country has been unfairly treated by the courts, international organisations and the media.
The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen has been named the world's most powerful women by Forbes.

The 65-year-old German politician topped the list created by the American business magazine. It is the second year in a row that she has been named in the top spot.

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Forbes said :"She is the first woman to serve in the role, which is responsible for legislation affecting more than 450 million Europeans."

Second on the list was the French president of the European Central Bank, Christine Lagarde, who has been in the role since 2019.

The US vice-president Kamal Harris came third on the list as the Democratic Party gears up for the 2024 presidential election.

Italy's right-wing Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni came in fourth after being elected in the 2022 Italian general election.

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Moving away from politics, global popstar Taylor Swift comes in fifth place and is also the youngest women to appear on the list at age 33.

Forbes said: "Taylor Swift became a billionaire in October 2023, thanks to the earnings from her Eras tour and the value of her music catalogue.

"Her fortune includes more than $500 million (463 million) in estimated wealth amassed from royalties and touring, plus a music catalog worth $500 million and some $125 million in real estate."

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Taylor Swift,  PA Wire/PA Images

Sixth on the list is president and chief executive of CVS health, followed by Karen Lynch the chief executive of Citigroup who came in at seventh.

Eight on the list is Mary Barra the chief executive of General Motors in the US. She has invested billions in electric vehicles, self-driving cars and a ride-share service called Maven.

Rounding out the top ten is Cochair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Melinda French Gates.

A regular on Forbes' list, she is the most powerful female philanthropist as she continues to devotes much of her work to women's and girls' rights.

Other notable names on the list include Oprah Winfrey at 31, Beyonce Knowles at 36 and Barbie who came in at the final spot number 100 and was called "a symbol for not only female empowerment but the necessity of fighting to recapture power that has been taken away."
Gaither Vocal Band - "Shine: The Darker the Night the Brighter the Light" | The Press House

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (December 4, 2023)  Gospel Music Hall of Famers the Gaither Vocal Band have once again proven their excellence by securing a nomination for Best Roots Gospel Album at the 66th GRAMMY Awards. The nomination is for their critically-acclaimed album Shine: The Darker the Night the Brighter the Light (Gaither Music Group), available everywhere via Capitol Christian Music Group and Universal Music.

Founded by gospel music legend Bill Gaither, the Gaither Vocal Band have consistently delighted fans and critics alike with their dynamic performances and deeply meaningful lyrics for decades. Currently comprised of Gaither, Wes Hampton, Adam Crabb, Todd Suttles and Reggie Smith, the quintet is known for its harmonious blends and spiritually-uplifting music that resonates deeply with audiences worldwide.

The bands newest album, Shine: The Darker the Night the Brighter the Light, produced by Gaither and Gordon Mote, offers new renditions of The Old Rugged Cross Made the Difference, Right Place, Right Time and Make Me an Instrument and sees the Gaither Vocal Band joining forces with contemporary Christian hitmakers CAIN to deliver a new twist to the worship hit Rise Up (Lazarus).

Combining smooth blends and catchy melodies with messages of redemption and encouragement, the album is accompanied by a full-length, performance DVD (available for purchase here) and TV special airing across multiple TV networks.

This honor marks the Gaither Vocal Bands 13th GRAMMY nomination, with two previous wins. It comes on the heels of the groups GMA DOVE Award nominations for Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year ("Jesus, What a Lovely Name") and Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year ("There Is a Mountain). The quinteta longtime benchmark vocal groupis known for its numerous radio hits, including the most recent Top 5 single How Beautiful Heaven Must Be.

The group is releasing five new performance videos to celebrate the Christmas season, including Gloria, Emmanuel/This Changes Everything, Come and See Whats Happenin, Home for the Holidays and Fear Not. They can be viewed on the Gaither Music TV YouTube channel (over three million subscribers) and on all digital video platforms.

The Gaither Vocal Band continues to tour extensively and to share their music and message with fans around the globe via their recordings, LIVE performances and TV specials. They are featured regularly on the Gaither Music TV YouTube channel, on the Gaither Facebook page (over two million subscribers), on Gaither Radio on Amazon and on Gaither Radio on Pandora where fans can also access the Gaither Vocal Band Legacy mode. Their influence in the world of gospel music continues to inspire generations with their timeless melodies and messages of faith.

All recordings by the Gaither Vocal Band are distributed by Capitol Christian Music Group and Universal Music. For further information visit Gaither.com.

Shine: The Darker the Night the Brighter the Light Album Track Listing:

Shine (The Darker The Night, The Brighter The Light)

Grateful!

Make The Morning Worth The Midnight

Love 'Em Where They Are

Right Place, Right Time

The Old Rugged Cross Made The Difference

Revival Broke Out

Rise Up (Lazarus) - featuring CAIN

If The Lord Wasn't Walking By My Side

May The Words Of My Mouth

Make Me An Instrument

Fully Alive

Lion Of Judah

About Gaither Vocal Band:

Since the early 1990s, the Gaither Vocal Band has served as a standard-bearer in the world of gospel music. Founded by legendary gospel songwriter and producer Bill Gaither, this GRAMMY-winning vocal group has performed in some of the worlds most prestigious venues, including the Sydney Opera House, The Kennedy Center, Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Carnegie Hall.

The list of men who have comprised the Gaither Vocal Band over the past 30 years reads like a Whos Who among the gospel music industrys best-loved voices, including Steve Green, Larnelle Harris, Mark Lowry, Michael English, David Phelps and many others.

A featured favorite in the Billboard chart-busting Gaither Homecoming Series, the Gaither Vocal Band continues to fill venues across North America with a steady tour schedule every year.

With its current lineup of Bill Gaither, Wes Hampton, Adam Crabb, Todd Suttles and Reggie Smith, the Gaither Vocal Band is known around the world for stunning vocals, innovative harmonies and life-altering messages of grace, hope and redemption.

About Gaither Music Group:

One of the largest independent Christian music companies in the world and a household name for millions of fans, Gaither Music Group (Gaither Music, Sun Records, Green Hill, emeraldwave), in partnership with Primary Wave Music Publishing, is known worldwide for its award-winning and top-selling recordings including the Gaither Gospel Series, of which 133 products have been certified gold, platinum or multi-platinum.

These recordings, which encompass more than 200 video copyrights, showcase gospel music pioneers; many of the finest performers in the gospel and country genres; up-and-coming acts; and country artists including The Oak Ridge Boys, Jimmy Fortune, Joey+Rory, Alabama, Alan Jackson, The Statler Brothers, George Jones, Vince Gill, Josh Turner, Tennessee Ernie Ford, The Isaacs, Dennis Quaid, Travis Tritt and others.

The Gaither Music Group brand has partnered with established artists including Whitney Houston, Sandi Patty, Gloria Gaynor, Steven Curtis Chapman and a host of acclaimed talent from various fields of music. Gaither Music Group has garnered sales of more than 40 million DVDs and CDs, including such PBS stalwarts as Billy Graham: Gods Ambassador, the only authorized video autobiography of Reverend Billy Graham; The Gospel Music of Johnny Cash; and three Elvis Presley projects, including He Touched Me and The Gospel Music of Elvis Presley, in conjunction with the Elvis Presley Estate.

Gaither Music Group developed a strategic partnership with Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in 2008; and its alliances with Capitol Christian Music Group, Virgin Music Label & Artist Services, Universal Music Group and Time Life Music remain bedrocks for the company. Most recently, the Gaither Music TV YouTube channel crossed the 3 billion life-to-date streaming benchmark and hosts more than 3 million subscribers.
The feral horse population in the Kosciuszko National Park has fallen for the first time in years after the government trialled aerial shooting, a control measure bitterly contested by some opponents.

After years of debate the government approved the trial in October, and this months survey figures suggest there are now about 17,432 horses in the park.

Brumby numbers in the Kosciuszko National Park have dropped for the first time in years. Credit: James Brickwood

Previously, the NSW government published data last year showed there were 18,814 feral horses in the park, a sharp increase from the estimate of 14,380 horses two years ago. In 2016, there were 6000 in the park.

The government has a management plan that would reduce the horse population to 3000 by June 30, 2027. Previously, environmental groups have said the number of feral horses could increase to 50,000 in the next decade unless stronger measures were introduced.
Last week, it was announced that the free hiking app AllTrails had won the 2023 Apple app of the year.

It may not be an obvious choice for several reasons  not least that if you compare it to the sheer number of running apps on the market, a hiking apps seems like the twitching, scroggin-carrying cousin.

Winner of the Apple app of the year: AllTrails. Credit: Luke Tscharke

Yet AllTrails, as CEO Ron Schneidermann tells it, has grown from a small and scrappy company with less than 10 employees in 2010 to a community of more than 60 million people around the world.

Today, a team of 120 helps users to navigate more than 420,000 curated trails (14,000 in Australia). There are interactive maps, elevation and difficulty levels, information on highlights, activities and whether its dog-friendly, kid-friendly or wheelchair-accessible.
A 25-year-old man who was rushed to hospital after falling into a hole on a Bribie Island beach in a freak accident has died.

Josh Taylors life support has been switched off, his family confirmed in an emotional statement, calling him the best son, brother, boyfriend and mate we could all have wished for.

Josh Taylor, 25, fell into a hole and was buried in sand on a Queensland island.

The family, including parents Peter and Belinda, said Taylor fought as hard as he could and is the most courageous person we will ever know who would be missed every minute of every day.

The accident happened on Saturday afternoon on Bribie Island, north of Brisbane. Taylor fell into a 1.5-metre hole that had been dug to roast a pig.

Family and friends battled to try and get him out with the help of rangers, giving CPR until emergency services arrived.

Paramedics told 9News the friends dug a hole before Taylor fell into it head-first and became buried. Credit: Nine News

He was rushed to Brisbanes Princess Alexandra Hospital in a critical condition.

The family thanks all those who helped, including staff at the hospital.

Their expertise and compassion made the hardest five days of our life just a little more easier, they said.

A GoFundMe crowdfunding page has raised more than $60,000 for the family.
The year began with Albanese government ministers describing Peter Dutton as their best asset. It is ending with the threat he could turn into their worst nightmare.

A rejuvenated Dutton has  with considerable help from the government  succeeded in catastrophising every issue, creating a sense of chaos around Anthony Albanese. Brimming with confidence, Dutton now scoffs at suggestions he is running a two-term strategy to unseat Albanese, predicting he will reduce him to a one-termer.

Albanese needs to change or he will go down. It wont matter how ugly Duttons style of politics is. Credit: Illustration: Dionne Gain

Dutton is starring in the Terminator sequel, fittingly subtitled Judgment Day, tutored by the original, Tony Abbott, living proof there is no such thing as an unelectable opposition leader.

If Albanese doesnt change, he will go down. It wont matter how ugly Duttons style of politics  Labors focus groups cast him as thuggish  or what state the economy is in.
A rendered, aerial view of the planned Baylands development on the San Francisco-Brisbane border that will blend housing and commercial real estate. BergDavis

Regarding Huge Bay Area housing project missed a crucial deadline, or did it? Advocates, city disagree (Bay Area, SFChronicle.com, Dec.2): To clarify some statements from this story: The city of Brisbane has worked well with the Baylands project developer, especially since the passage of the General Plan Amendment in 2018.

Environmental impact reports are being prepared by a hired firm, not the citys staff. The firm cannot complete its analysis until it has all the necessary information on the ongoing toxic remediation, the source and transmission route of the required water supply and the resolution of a conflict with the California High-Speed Rail Authority.

The real story is how the rail authority is undermining the Baylands project. The city and the developer have sued to persuade the authority to change the proposed configuration of a railyard maintenance facility at the site, which makes the Baylands plan financially unfeasible.

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The proposed railyard and maintenance facility requires a substantial proportion of the land area east of the Caltrain track. The developers plan for the west side of the Baylands is negatively impacted by a long flyover elevated track proposed by the authority to get southbound trains over to the railyard and maintenance facility.

Its the state that needs to get its act together, not the city.

Raymond Miller, former mayor, Brisbane

Clean up politics reporting

Regarding A poop map and French Laundry digs: How Newsom fared in enemy territory (Joe Garofoli, SFChronicle.com, Nov. 30): Joe Garofolis summary of the Gavin Newsom-Ron DeSantis debate illustrates what is wrong with political reporting and commentary in the United States.

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In commenting on Newsom sharing facts, Garofoli writes that the California governors failure to gain the audience with information that might be accurate  is a reminder that nuance and context doesnt do well when youre mud wrestling.

Who made debates mud wrestling over the presentation of facts? Who played up the poop map Florida Gov. DeSantis shared? Who seemed to admire DeSantis sharing of a poop map?: Mud wrestling political reporters who focus on Newsoms phantom run for president over policies and facts voters need to know. Political reporters who make the mud with their shallow horse-race reporting.

It is political writers like Garofoli who do the voters an injustice. Especially voters who will lose rights under an extreme Republican administration. The focus on theatrics and gamesmanship got us Donald Trump.

Political parties have never been more diametrically opposed in my lifetime. Youd never know it by reading or watching political reporting and analysis in the United States.

Nicole Kowalski, San Rafael

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Make streets safer for all

When it comes to pedestrians, cyclists and car drivers, its time to take the temperature down.

We need each of us to take personal responsibility for our actions. It starts simply: Look both ways when crossing a street. When did we forget that childhood training?

Im a pedestrian, Muni rider and driver, and I make it my business to always look to see whos coming because we are all distracted  and all of us need to do a better job.

As long as there is a need to get from here to there, there will be cars, bikes and pedestrians. So lets stop pointing fingers and start working together to create solutions that make things safer for everyone.

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Firstly, look both ways and follow the rules of the road  and that includes cyclists. Enough of not stopping at stop signs. Im not advocating for ticketing, but cyclists better be darn sure what theyre doing is safe, or they should be held accountable.

We should also consider more bans on right turns at popular intersections to help ensure safer pedestrian passage. But pedestrians also need to heed the signals and look up from their devices.

Cyclists shouldnt own the streets any more than drivers or pedestrians. We can make San Francisco a better, safer place for everyone if we respect each other and work on ways to share the road.
Sydneys Rosehill Racecourse will be relocated to make way for a new mini-city with 25,000 homes and an extra Metro West station under an ambitious plan being devised by the Minns government and the Australian Turf Club (ATC).

In the long-awaited plan to tackle Sydneys housing crisis, Rosehill Racecourse will be shifted to another upgraded racecourse after the turf club, which owns the track, took an unsolicited proposal to the state government.

The Australian Turf Club owns Rosehill Racecourse near Parramatta. Credit: Rhett Wyman

While the plans will include at least one extra Metro West stop at Rosehill, the mega rail project linking Sydneys CBD and Parramatta will be delayed by two years to 2032 and its $25.3 billion price tag is likely to increase.

A second station will also be considered for a site west of Sydney Olympic Park, and Silverwater has repeatedly been cited as the most likely option.
Bangkok: An estimated 400 Rohingya Muslims believed to be aboard two boats adrift in the Andaman Sea without adequate supplies could die if more is not done to rescue them, according to the United Nations refugee agency and aid workers.

The number of Rohingya Muslims fleeing by boats in a seasonal exodus  usually from squalid, overcrowded refugee camps in Bangladesh  has been rising since last year due to cuts to food rations and a spike in gang violence.

Ethnic Rohingya disembark from their boat upon landing in Ulee Madon, on the north coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, in November. Credit: AP

There are about 400 children, women and men looking death in the eye if there are no moves to save these desperate souls, said Babar Baloch, the agencys Bangkok-based regional spokesperson.

The boats apparently embarked from Bangladesh and are reported to have been at sea for about two weeks, he said.
New York: Former US president Donald Trumps civil business fraud trial has turned to one of the topics that has vexed him most  the value of his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida.

Testifying for Trumps defence, a Florida real estate lawyer said the property could be sold as a home, notwithstanding decades-old legal documents in which Trump said he intended to forego its use as anything but a club. Then a Palm Beach luxury real estate broker testified that hed value the historic estate at more than $US1 billion ($1.5 billion) as of 2021.

Mar-a-Lago, one of many ritzy properties in Pal Beach, Florida. Credit: AP

Its something breathtaking. Its something amazing to see, broker Lawrence Moens said before showing a glimmering video complete with swelling music, aerial shots of the property at sunrise and sunset and a closing image of an American flag.

His testimony was punctuated by wry remarks. He described a photo of a different part of ritzy Palm Beach as showing some land, some houses, for instance.
The AAT also accepted the submission that stated that if Anderson had acted according to her obligations as an advisor, none of her clients would have invested in the IIOF and would not have been affected by its eventual collapse.
The Supreme Court on Wednesday ruled that non-signatory firms can be bound by arbitration agreement under the group of companies doctrine.

This means that companies that belong to the same group of firms, but are not signatories to the arbitration agreement, can still be bound by the agreement.

The group of companies doctrine must be retained in the Indian arbitration jurisprudence considering its utility in determining the intention of the parties in the context of complex transactions involving multiple parties and multiple agreements, the Bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, Justices Hrishikesh Roy, PS Narasimha, JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra said in the Cox and Kings vs SAP India Pvt Ltd verdict.

A party who is not a signatory to the arbitration agreement will still be bound by it provided that there is a clear and defined legal relationship between signatories and non signatories.



The signature of a party in an agreement is the most profound expression of consent of a person to submit to jurisdiction. However, the corollary that persons who have not signed aren't part of the agreement may not always be correct, the Bench said.



The case pertains to the dispute between Cox and Kings and software firm SAP. Cox and Kings had employed SAP to install software in its systems. However, Cox and Kings later said that SAP did not comply with the agreement properly and started an arbitration proceeding against it.



In the proceedings, SAPs German arm SAP SE was made a party. SAP said its German arm was not a party to the arbitration agreement so it could not be dragged into the dispute. Cox and Kings invoked the Group of Companies doctrine, saying that the German arm can be made a party even if it is a non-signatory in the arbitration agreement.



In 2022, former CJI NV Ramana referred the matter to a five-judge Constitution Bench.



The doctrine was contested by some parties, who said that it did not consider individual party autonomy and the separate legal entity concept.



Tejas Karia, partner, head of arbitration, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co, said the judgment will reduce the possibility of abuse of the doctrine.

The recognition of corporate separateness and taking away the mechanism of piercing corporate veil to join non-signatory will help reduce misuse of this doctrine by joining non-signatory only because of holding-subsidiary relationship. The greater authority given to the arbitral tribunal to decide the status of non-signatory party is a pro-arbitration step. The narrowed contours for invoking the Group of Companies will reduce the scope and possibility of abuse of the doctrine, he said.

Suvigya Awasthy, partner, PSL Advocates & Solicitors, said the decision of binding non-signatories has been left with the arbitral tribunal that is aligned with the doctrine of kompetenz-kompetenz (competence or jurisdiction to rule) as well as the recent trend to reduce judicial interference in arbitration.

It would be safe to say that the judgment of the Constitutional Bench is commercially sound that appreciates the nuances of business transactions involving multiple entities and concurrently reinforces the factors for determining the impleadment of non-signatories, Awasthy said.


Launched in 2022 in partnership with Common Services Centres Scheme, the program has reached 2 million beneficiaries, empowering underrepresented communities in areas with poor-socio economic indicators.

In 2023-24, the program aims to impact an additional 1.2 million people, including 200 retired defence personnel and their wards with digital inclusion opportunities.



Solar Community Hubs

one billion lives

[i]

six aspirational districts

Pauri Garhwal (Uttarakhand)

Ramgarh (Jharkhand)

Jhansi (Uttar Pradesh)

Pathankot (Punjab)

Gurugram (Haryana)

T

Partnering with the government over the years in various activities has helped drive transformational

change and address the digital divide, said Alok Ohrie, president and managing director, Dell Technologies India.

goal

to support

communities to achieve

digital equity

, where they find themselves equipped with

technology capacity needed for full participation in

the society

and economy. From students to women and now ex-servicemen, the opportunity to help them gain

in Indias evolving digital society is a rewarding contribution.
The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) Chief Executive Officer, H.E. Sultan Al-Marshad, signed a new development loan agreement with the Minister of Finance of the Republic of Tajikistan, H.E. Kahhorzoda Fayziddin Sattor, through which SFD is contributing $100 million USD to fund the Rogun Hydropower Project, a landmark initiative that will enhance energy, food, and water security, and foster sustainable development in the country.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205003776/en/

SFDs CEO, H.E. Sultan Al-Marshad and Tajik Finance Minister, H.E. Kahhorzoda Fayziddin Sattor commemorate $100 million development loan agreement. (Photo: AETOSWire)

The signing was attended by the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Republic of Tajikistan, H.E. Waleed Al-Reshiadan, and the Ambassador of Tajikistan to Saudi Arabia, H.E. Akram Karimi, alongside other officials from both sides.

SFDs development loan will help contribute towards a more sustainable and equitable food and water future for Tajikistan, while driving the countrys energy transition and climate resilience.

The project aims to contribute to the national energy security and will help advance sustainable development in the Republic of Tajikistan, by providing the renewable electricity supply to meet local demand and expand electricity production domestically and regionally, producing 3600 MW of energy. The loan agreement will also finance the construction of a 335-meter-tall dam, which will enhance irrigation capabilities and bolster agricultural activities across the country.

Additionally, the project will improve flood protection through the construction of four hydraulic tunnels for diversion and drainage. It will also provide clean and drinkable water to people through desalination, and help advance socio-economic development, by creating both direct and indirect jobs.

Importantly, this project also supports the realization of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); specifically, SDG 2, Zero Hunger, SDG 6, Clean Water and Sanitation, and SDG 7, Affordable and Clean Energy.

On this occasion, the CEO of SFD, H.E. Sultan Al-Marshad, said: Todays signing marks a major milestone in our shared journey towards a more sustainable future. With this landmark development loan, SFD is not just supporting Tajikistan's energy future, but also its sustainable development and the well-being of its people. The Rogun Hydropower Project is a beacon of hope for a bright future that is powered by clean, renewable energy. It will propel Tajikistan towards environmental stewardship and prosperity.

Social media

Twitter: @SaudiFund_Dev

Instagram: saudifund_dev

Facebook: SaudiFundDev

YouTube:@SaudiFund_Dev

Source: AETOSWire

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205003776/en/
Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said Wednesday he plans to leave Congress at the end of the year. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

WASHINGTON  Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy will retire from Congress at the end of the year, just weeks after he was ousted from the position, he said Wednesday in the Wall Street Journal.

McCarthy gained the speakership after 15 votes in January, the most required for any speaker to be elected. He was then removed from his position Oct. 3 in a vote supported by all House Democrats and eight right-wing members of his own party, the first time a speaker had ever been removed in history.

I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways. I know my work is only getting started, McCarthy wrote. I never could have imagined the journey when I first threw my hat into the ring. I go knowing I left it all on the field  as always, with a smile on my face. And looking back, I wouldnt have had it any other way.

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His departure, along with that of Ohio Rep. Bill Johnson and the removal of George Santos, will leave House Republicans with only a one-seat majority. That will make it even more difficult to permanently fund the government in January with upcoming deadlines.

McCarthy ally Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., highlighted that concern in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) Wednesday morning. Well, Now in 2024, we will have a 1 seat majority in the House of Representatives. Congratulations Freedom Caucus for one and 105 Rep who expel our own for the other. I can assure you Republican voters didnt give us the majority to crash the ship.

McCarthy has represented his Bakersfield district in the House since 2007 and was a member of the California Assembly for nearly four years prior.

Before being elected speaker in January, McCarthy had long sought the position. After former Speaker John Boehner announced he would resign in October 2015, McCarthy ran for the job, but later dropped out after concluding he didnt have the votes. Republicans gained a narrow majority in the House in January. McCarthy received support from an internal party vote, but some Republicans opposed his election on the floor, leading to a chaotic and embarrassing 15 votes over four days. He was elected as speaker Jan. 7, after making concessions to some far-right members of his caucus.

Those same right-wing lawmakers eventually orchestrated his removal as speaker in October. As part of those early concessions, McCarthy had agreed to allow any lawmaker the ability to file a motion to remove the speaker. McCarthy agreed to fund the government through a continuing resolution in late September to prevent a government shutdown and give Republicans time to negotiate over the next years spending.

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The far-right Republicans were unhappy with the continuing resolution, and on Oct. 3, Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., filed a motion to remove McCarthy. Eight Republicans  Gaetz, Reps. Andy Biggs of Arizona, Ken Buck of Colorado, Tim Burchett of Tennessee, Eli Crane of Arizona, Bob Good of Virginia, Nancy Mace of South Carolina and Matt Rosendale of Montana  voted to oust McCarthy, joining every House Democrat.

McCarthys ally, Rep. Patrick McHenry of North Carolina, was made temporary speaker of the House for the next three weeks, until Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana, a far-right conservative member, was elected as the next speaker. (McHenry announced Tuesday he plans to retire from Congress at the end of 2024.)

McCarthy is one of the GOPs most prolific fundraisers; committees controlled by him have raised nearly $16 million so far this campaign cycle, according to fundraising reports compiled by OpenSecrets. His departure from Congress could lead to the loss of the GOPs majority, especially as Johnson has limited experience fundraising from a leadership position.

Jim Brulte, the former head of the California Republican Party who has known McCarthy since he was an Assembly candidate, doesnt foresee the former speaker running for statewide office in California, where Democrats outnumber Republicans 2-to-1 and the GOP hasnt won a statewide office since 2006.

Kevin is not going to run for Senate or governor because he is not a Don Quixote, said Brulte, who served as the top Republican in both the Assembly and state Senate during his time in Sacramento. But he will excel at whatever career he picks.

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One of his longtime friends and allies going back 30 years in California is Jeff Miller, a lobbyist who now splits his time between Texas and Washington. Brulte thinks one of McCarthys legacies will be his ability to recruit candidates. McCarthy, as the GOPs chief candidate recruiter, was key in twice delivering House majorities  in 2010 and 2022.

Many of the candidates he recruited were in his mold, a blue-collar, state-college guy who told the Chronicle in 2010 that things dont come easy to me, so I have to work harder at everything.

Part of the reason for McCarthys recruiting prowess is Kevin has better people skills and interpersonal skills than most of the people I ever experienced in politics, Brulte said.

But McCarthy wrote in the Wall Street Journal that he plans to continue recruiting Republicans to run for office and helping entrepreneurs and risk-takers reach their full potential. The challenges we face are more likely to be solved by innovation than legislation.

A special election will need to be held to replace McCarthy; a separate election will also be held for the next full term.

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China's night schools the new craze among young people

10:48, December 06, 2023 By Hou Xiangjun ( Global Times

Jinan Library, East China's Shandong Province. Photo: Courtesy of the Jinan Library

In China, going to night school was once for adults, with the main aim being to reduce illiteracy. Today, far from being to provide basic education, the main focus has changed to meeting the personal interests and fulfilling the aspirations of China's youth.

Night schools are sweeping across major cities in China. These schools offer short learning courses, usually with one class a week. A variety of art subjects are offered, not simple reading and writing. Subjects range from intangible cultural course velvet crafting to Chinese traditional tea ceremony (tea making) and barista courses. Hundreds of thousands of students are flocking to night classes after they get off work

The pacesetter has been the Shanghai Night School, which offers a course which includes 12 classes led by masters in their fields for only 500 yuan ($70). When Shanghai's autumn 2023 semester enrollment began, attendance numbers were as high as 650,000 to get their places on one of the 10,000 courses.

According to data from Chinese consumer shopping platforms Meituan and Dianping, searches for "night schools" have skyrocketed, increasing an astonishing 980 percent compared with last year. Reviews for related hobby classes grew 226 percent year-on-year.

The hashtag "night school" has gained a whopping 5.292 million views on Xiaohongshu, the Instagram-like platform beloved by urban youth in China.

Yang Song's works of the velvet crafting photo: Courtesy of Yang Song

Reclaiming pleasant and balance

"Far from spending a thousand for one or two trial training courses, the night school charges 500 yuan for 12 classes. This is more suitable for me," Yang Song, a student at Shanghai Night School told the Global Times.

Yang attended the night school classes for the first time in 2022 and she felt there was a huge rise of night schools, adding that "The classes in Shanghai Night School were snapped up within one minute and courses are hard to grab."

For the stressed-out urban youth, these schools promise self-cultivation, communication bonding, and most importantly, a happy environment lacking in their regular workplace.

Yang attended evening classes to fulfill her aspirations and to meet new people, "I have many hobbies and I want to learn all the things that I didn't take the time to learn when I was studying in the past."

She added that meeting more like-minded people, communicating people who don't care about your personal affairs, "how can you not love that feeling of pure lightness?" she noted.

Night schools seem to offer an oasis from the burnout workplaces, even if only for a few hours each week. They represent a temporary breathing place for the youth.

"I just don't want to push myself anymore, night school is a place where I can unwind. It's an outlet for me," Yang told the Global Times.

Yang Song's works of the velvet crafting photo: Courtesy of Yang Song

Night school surging popularity amongst youth seeking both passion and solace

Dong Jiaxi is a 27-year-old white-collar office working in Beijing. Her daily life is normally boring, "Every day I go to work, go home, and lay down and play with my cellphone," she told the Global Times.

Night school offers her a sense of passion and motion, she said, "studying at the night school is the equivalent of 'recharging the batteries'."

For the urban youth, life is gradually becoming boring, with nothing to do after work. "I think we all need a platform and an avenue to develop our hobbies, to express ourselves, to improve ourselves, to find joy and meaning in our lives outside of work," Dong said.

Flourishing classes

Other cities have followed the trend in Shanghai. Major cities like Beijing, Shenzhen, Shandong, and Chongqing Municipality have launched their own distinctive night schools catering to the interests of the locals.

The Jinan Library, East China's Shandong Province, will launch their first evening classes on December 18, Li Dehu, an employee in charge of night school of Jinan Library, told the Global Times.

The library is billed as the first night school in Jinan. It offers short video-making course, intangible cultural heritage handicrafts class, and the skills for the workplace courses such as office software training and writing after they posted the questionnaire on their official Wechat account since November 16 to acquire people's suggestions and options for evening classes.

The Library will be upgrading some lecture theaters and other rooms. Students will get an ID card to attend the night school, gaining access far from daytime students, Li noted.

Unlike the business night schools, Jinan night school, as a public welfare school, offers low prices charging only 20 yuan per class and they also provide after-school counseling. The highlight of the courses in Jinan night school is the teachers, who are highly qualified. The school invites inheritors of intangible cultural heritage to teach students and their teachers are mostly from Jinan's universities, Li told the Global Times.

The night school with their own characteristics in Jinan, hope that they can more accurately meet the public cultural needs, enrich the cultural life of the city at night, and satisfy the needs of cultural life, skill learning, and physical and mental health, Li stressed.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
California Gov. Gavin Newsoms office announced Tuesday that a pre-taped ceremony will instead be streamed virtually on Wednesday evening. Alberto E. Rodriguez/TNS

SACRAMENTO  California Gov. Gavin Newsom opted to make the Capitols annual tree-lighting ceremony virtual amid safety concerns over protests, his office said Tuesday, prompting harsh criticism from the organizers of a pro-Palestinian rally.

As we continue to see protests across the country impacting the safety of events of all scales  and for the safety and security of all participating members and guests including children and families  the ceremony this year will be virtual, Newsom spokesperson Omar Rodriguez said in a statement.

The annual ceremony to light up the huge tree outside the state Capitol building typically attracts families, and in recent years has featured children who help Newsom and his wife flip the switch to turn on the trees lights. Sacramentos Midtown Association previously advertised a night market associated with the tree lighting on Tuesday evening, but announced last week the event was canceled and that the tree lighting would be virtual, saying protests presented a security threat.

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Newsoms office announced Tuesday that a pre-taped ceremony will instead be streamed virtually on Wednesday evening.

The Sacramento Regional Coalition for Palestinian Rights planned a rally at the Capitol on Tuesday evening calling for a cease-fire in Gaza. In a statement, the group accused Newsom of canceling his plans to hold the tree lighting in person because he doesnt want to face their anger at his shameful stance in regard to the genocide in Gaza.

Governor Newsom decided to cancel the tree lighting ceremony rather than face the public that is enraged by his shameful silence on the genocide in Gaza, one of the groups members, Yassar Dahbour, said in a statement. This certainly doesnt add up with his past stance with Native Americans.

During his first year in office, Newsom issued a formal apology to Native Californians, saying that the governments slaughter of their ancestors, family separations and forced labor amounted to genocide.

Newsom has said he supports Israel in its war with the militant group Hamas. In October, he traveled to Israel, where he said government officials there showed him a video of Hamas militants beheading an Israeli person during the attack on Oct. 7, which Newsom said deeply affected him and shaped his view of the conflict.

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Hamas militants killed about 1,200 Israelis and captured more than 200 others during the attack. Israel responded by bombing the region heavily. The Gaza Health Ministry said more than 15,000 Gazans have been killed in Israels attacks.

In October, Newsom said California was sending aid to Israel and to Gaza, though he said the state was facing logistical challenges in dispatching it because of Israels blockades on aid into Gaza at the time. Some of the aid finally reached Gaza last week, Office of Emergency Services spokesperson Brian Ferguson said.

California sent 52 pallets of supplies, including 50-bed medical stations to both Israel and Gaza that include wound and IV kits, defibrillators, wheelchairs and other medical supplies. The supplies were taken from the states surplus emergency supplies.

Newsoms decision to alter the normally in-person tree lighting ceremony comes about two weeks after pro-Palestinian protests prompted the California Democratic Party to cancel some events at their convention in Sacramento.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The main reason San Francisco is seeing lower rents in November 2023, according to an Apartment List researcher, is that fewer people are looking for apartments there. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle

San Francisco rents continue to drop, and they probably havent hit bottom.

Median rent prices in San Francisco are the lowest theyve been since mid-2021. Experts say they could decline a bit more as the rental market slows for the winter.

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The median one-bedroom asking rent in San Francisco was $2,190 in November 2023, according to data from Apartment List. The last time rent was lower than that was in June 2021, when the citys prices were moving upward following a pandemic-induced plummet.

Despite some brief summer bumps, San Franciscos rent prices have never returned to pre-2020 levels. The citys typical rent in November 2023 was 16.4% lower than the $2,620 in November 2019.

Thats despite growth in rent prices statewide. Californias typical rent of $1,620 in November 2023 was 13% higher than the $1,430 it was four years prior.

Rents usually dip in the fall and winter before climbing in the spring and summer, according to Rob Warnock, senior research associate for Apartment List. People tend to avoid moving during the holidays, he explained, but demand for apartments rises when the weather is warmer and the school season is over  allowing landlords to charge more.

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But the main reason San Francisco is seeing lower rents, Warnock said, is that fewer people are looking for apartments there.

San Francisco is notorious for not creating affordability through new housing supply, but (it) is a perfect example, in some ways, of creating affordability by removing demand from the rental market, he added.

Some major San Francisco landlords have echoed that belief, saying remote work options and tech layoffs have made it harder to find renters. Many apartment owners are offering free rent and other concessions to attract tenants.

The citys rents are particularly low compared to last year, when prices were still partially elevated by a summer surge that didnt materialize this year. San Franciscos median one-bedroom rent fell from $2,350 in November 2022 to $2,190 in November 2023. That drop, at 6.7%, was bigger than in nearly any other of the 100 largest United States cities for which Apartment List has data. Only Oakland had a deeper dip.

But San Francisco still had the third-highest rent among the biggest United States cities in November, behind only Huntington Beach and Irvine (Orange County).

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Rents in South of Market and Mission Bay have fallen most steeply over the past year, according to data from housing broker Zillow, which tracks changes in rents at the ZIP code level. Estimated prices increased in just a few areas, such as the 94134, which includes Portola and Visitacion Valley.

Record levels of housing construction have helped temper prices in some parts of the country, Warnock of Apartment List said. And he believes theres enough development in the pipeline to continue that trend nationally for another year or two.

But San Francisco has long lagged in that area, despite recent efforts by state and city officials to speed up the process. If more companies start requiring workers to return to the office next year, Warnock said, competition between renters could push prices back up.
Overcoming every challenge, Anumula Revanth Reddy, the new Chief Minister of Telangana, rose to the top of the country's youngest state.He has never been in a ruling party in his 17-year political career and has never held an administration role, but he had a burning passion and huge guts to take the route he believed would lead him to the top echelons of politics.

All year, he had thought that dreams might be converted into realities. Mr Reddy, a powerful young man, has since galvanised the Congress in Telangana; the ceremony installing him as President of the party's state unit was attended by hundreds, and he was a regular presence on the streets, spearheading protests against the then ruling BRS on a variety of topics.

In the Kamareddy assembly seat, Congress' Revanth Reddy was a ahead of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) chairman and state minister KCR. The contest between Revanth Reddy and KCR in Kamareddy district is expected to decide the state's future chief minister.

In the November 30 Assembly election, Revanth Reddy has emerged as the face of the grand old party, and exit polls indicate that Congress has the upper hand. Both politicians are running in their second constituencies: KCR from his current seat of Gajwel (Siddipet district) and Revanth, the Malkajgiri MP, from his home turf of Kodangal (Vikarabad district).After KCR threw his hat in the ring in Kamareddy, veteran Congress politician and two-time MLA Mohammed Ali Shabbir, who had lost the seat in the 2018 election to BRS' Gampa Govardhan by just 4,557 votes, has been relocated to the adjoining Nizamabad Urban seat to make space for Revanth.

Educational Qualification of Revanth Reddy

Anumula Revanth Reddy, who was born in the Mahboobnagar area, began his political career as a student with the ABVP. He was also a member of the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (now known as the Bharat Rashtra Samithi).. He is a TRS core member and is known to be close to K Chandrashekhar Rao. Revanth is from the district of Mahboobnagar. From his boyhood, he had a strong interest in politics. Revanth was the student union president at his graduation. He joined Akhil Bhartiya Vidhyarthi Parishad at that time. He married the daughter of Congress leader Jaipal Reddy's nice shortly after graduating from A.V.College, Osmania University, in 1992.

Revanth Reddy's political career began following his marriage. Having been a member of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) during his school days, he ran for local body elections on his own in 2006 and was elected as a member of the Midjil Mandal district panchayat.

Reddy began his political career with the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) student wing, the Ahil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), before joining the TDP and winning the Kodangal constituency in Mahaboobnagar district in the 2009 and 2014 assembly elections.
Tony Phillips, whos been unhoused for eight years, rests near a security fence on Fourth Street ahead of the 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference in San Francisco on Nov. 11. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle

San Francisco merchants near Moscone Center are urging City Hall to compensate them for devastating losses they say their businesses endured because of the barricaded streets and strict security measures for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit last month.

A group of South of Market business leaders told a Board of Supervisors committee Wednesday that APEC cost them tens of thousands of dollars after federal authorities erected heavy-duty metal fencing and tightly limited access to the convention center where world leaders from 21 economies  along with thousands of CEOs, dignitaries and journalists  gathered in mid-November.

City officials estimated that APEC would attract more than 20,000 attendees and generate about $53 million in economic activity, including through spending at local hotels and restaurants. But representatives from various businesses close to the convention center told supervisors the conference hurt their operations, and they called on the city to help them using $10 million previously set aside to pay for APEC-related costs.

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In actuality, if there was anything close to 20,000 attendees for this event, they were all well catered to within the confines of the Moscone Center, said Manuel Ramirez, owner of the Metreon location of the Korean fried chicken chain Bonchon. That is the key information that was withheld from us.

A customer sits at a table at the Metreon Super Duper Burgers, which was behind barricades in a local traffic-controlled zone on Nov. 16 in San Francisco. Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle

Bonchon stocked its kitchen ahead of APEC because its suppliers were not willing to surmount the security obstacles necessary to get to the Metreon while the conference was under way, Ramirez said. He decided to stay open, hoping that his business might still be patronized by people attending the conference. But for the most part, that wasnt the case, and his business lost more than $50,000, he said.

Had Bonchon closed, its losses would have likely been closer to $10,000  something we could manage, Ramirez said.

He described businesses hurt by the conferences security measures as sacrificial lambs for putting San Francisco on the world stage.

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Supervisor Matt Dorsey, who represents SoMa and called Wednesdays hearing, seemed open to the idea of compensating businesses in some way, even as he acknowledged that APEC had succeeded in at least one respect: burnishing San Franciscos image to the rest of the world.

Dorsey said he wasnt worried about setting a precedent that the city will have to pay businesses every time theres a big event in town, noting that APEC was singularly disruptive as the most important gathering of world leaders held in the city since 1945.

This was an extraordinary and unique thing that caused extraordinary and unique hardships, Dorsey said.

Mayor London Breeds administration was responsible for preparing San Francisco for APEC, and she was a major booster of the conference. She saw APEC as a pivotal moment to improve the citys standing on the world stage after its reputation took repeated hits in recent years due to its open-air drug markets, widespread homelessness, shuttering retail stores and brazen property crimes.

Breed previously told the Chronicle that she was open to compensating businesses hurt by APEC but she couldnt commit until she understood the full impacts of the conference. Her budget director, Anna Duning, told supervisors on Wednesday that the mayors administration was glad to hear the feedback from community members and officials would work with the board to understand how to move forward.



Breeds Office of Economic Workforce and Development, as well as the Office of Small Business within it, are in discussions with businesses affected by APEC and are working on next steps to present to Breed and supervisors, mayoral spokesperson Parisa Safarzadeh said in a statement.



APEC gave San Francisco the opportunity to promote the City to the world, and generate lasting positive economic impacts, Safarzadeh said. Were committed to this momentum.

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Supervisor Ahsha Safai, who is running for mayor against Breed next year, was highly critical of Breeds office for what he described as a failure to properly prepare businesses for APEC. He also questioned what the clean and safe streets around APEC events suggested about how the city operates on other days.



Everywhere Ive gone, people have said, Well, if San Francisco can make this work for this summit, why cant we do that consistently?  he said at the hearing.

APEC did not affect all businesses equally, even within the Moscone Center security zone.

During the week of the conference from Nov. 13-19, foot traffic throughout the Yerba Buena Community Benefit District  the boundaries of which overlapped with the security zone  plunged 33.8% compared with average visitor trends in the two previous months, said Scott Rowitz, executive director of the business district. Businesses also told his organization their revenue dropped an average of 64.3% compared with September and October.

But the conference was a boon to hotels in the area that normally would have had a quiet week due to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Instead, every hotel was at max capacity, Rowitz told supervisors.

It was either feast or famine depending on where you were, he said. A yin and yang definitely occurred in this event.
The Walt Disney Company is course-correcting and giving theatrical releases to three Pixar films that had originally debuted on streaming.

The studio announced today that moviegoers can now experience these Pixar films the way they were meant to be seen. The films will be released as limited special engagements on different dates in early 2024.

The films  Soul, Luca, and Turning Red  were released direct to streaming between 2020 and 2022 on Disney+. Souls streaming release was out of necessity due to theater closures during the height of the pandemic, but the other two films were designated for streaming debuts as part of a questionable strategy by former Disney CEO Bob Chapek to prioritize feeding that [Disney+] machine over theatrical releases.

Chapeks strategy, however, backfired spectacularly, especially as Disney continued to release its own Disney Animation Studios films to theaters. Some Pixar employees felt that Disney had devalued the Pixar brand and created a tiered system that prioritized some of the companys animated films over others. The fact that all three of the Pixar films were boldly original concepts, with Pete Docters Soul even winning two Oscars, only added insult to injury.

A few Pixar employees voiced their discontent anonymously to the media, but the collective frustrations of the workers were expressed most boldly by Docter, the studios chief creative officer, who blamed the misguided Disney+ strategy in a recent interview. There has been an overall shift in viewing habits as a result of the pandemic, but its also specific to Disney+, Docter told the New York Times. Weve told people, Hey, all of this is going to be available to you on Disney+!

Disneys decision to release these films early next year signals an attempt by the company to repair the prestige of the Pixar brand ahead of releasing the high-profile sequel Inside Out 2. Further, Disney is taking advantage of a lull in the theatrical calendar. Currently, the majors have slated just one animated film  Kung Fu Panda 4  to release theatrically in the first four months of next year, creating an opportunity for more family-friendly releases during this dry stretch.

Below is the release schedule of the three features, as well as the short films that will play in front of each:
Daniel Langlois, a pioneering figure in the computer animation industry, was found dead last weekend on the Caribbean island of Dominica. His body was discovered in a burned-out vehicle alongside his partner, Dominique Marchand. Police are treating their deaths as potential homicides.

Langlois and Marchand owned the luxury eco-hotel Coulibri Ridge on the island. Police believe the couple were ambushed and shot, with their car subsequently catching on fire after plunging down a ravine.

At least four people have either been taken in for questioning or are in custody, including a couple from New Jersey, Jonathan and Victoria Lehrer, who operated a nearby chocolate plantation. Langlois was engaged in litigation against the Lehrers, who had denied access to the public road that led to Langloiss resort.

Langlois and Marchand played an important role in the community, according to Soufriere village politician Denise Charles-Pemberton, who told a state-owned radio channel:

These last few days have been incredibly heavy for our constituency. To lose two members of our community, who have been at the heart of its development and its sense of spirit and togetherness is something that we have struggled to put into words. Daniel and Dominique may be known for their world-renowned eco-resort in the village but to the people of the Soufriere constituency and to me, they were kind, loving and truly community oriented. They loved the people of our constituency dearly and had great plans in place for its development. I remember after Hurricane Maria devastated us, I called a meeting and invited every group, council and developer to put a plan forward for rebuilding. Daniel and Dominique remained committed, offering help whenever approached, especially supporting conservation and sustainability projects.

After Hurricane Maria in 2017, a foundation run by Langlois had funded the reconstruction of the local primary school and a jetty.

Born in 1957 in Quebec, Canada, Langlois earned a Bachelors Degree in Design from the Universite du Quebec a Montreal (UQAM). He started his career working at various animation studios in Montreal including the National Film Board of Canada (NFB), where he contributed to the technical production of Rene Jodoins digitally-animated Rectangle & Rectangles (1984).

He explored and redefined the boundaries of computer animation [at the NFB], before his extraordinary, innovative spirit led him to create technologies that would revolutionize filmmaking, Suzanne Guevremont, president of the National Film Board of Canada, said in a statement. We will always remember his immense generosity and the importance he placed on education and supporting emerging talent. His contributions to the world of cinema were incalculable.

Another key project to which Langlois contributed was the 1985 film Tony de Peltrie, which was an ambitious early attempt at dialogue and human animation in cg. The film was a sensation at the SIGGRAPH computer graphics conference. Time magazine said the filmmakers may have achieved a breakthrough: a digitized character with whom a human audience can identify. John Lasseter, who was a judge at SIGGRAPH that year, said at the time: Years from now Tony de Peltrie will be looked upon as the landmark piece, where real, fleshy characters were first animated by computer.

After Tony de Peltrie, Langlois animated the NFB film Transitions, which was the first example of stereoscopic 3d computer animation in IMAX format. The film was presented at the Canada Pavilion of Expo 86 in Vancouver, where it was seen by 1.75 million people over six months.

Frustrated by the state of computer graphics software, Langlois came up with the idea of making his own. He founded Softimage in 1986.

Its a classical story, Langlois told a tv reporter in 1994. I was the artist that was not happy with the tool that was put in front of him. [I] tried to talk to other companies to build those tools and they didnt understand what I was talking about because most of them were pure engineer. So I decided to create the tools myself. Thats the idea behind the company, and behind the success of the company also, because as a user, I was able to define the tools the way they should be made for users.

In 1991, Softimage became the first cg software package to introduce inverse kinematics, which helped make it the most dominant cg animation packages of the early and mid-Nineties. Industrial Light & Magic quickly applied Softimages new IK features for the dinosaurs in Jurassic Park. Other iconic visual effects-heavy productions of the period that made use of Softimage include Titanic, The Mask, Independence Day, Men in Black, The Matrix, The Fifth Element, Jumanji, Flubber, and Death Becomes Her. George Borshukov, who helped develop the bullet time effect in The Matrix, said that without Softimages software, the effect just wouldnt have been possible.

Langlois sold the company to Microsoft in 1994 for $130 million. The company was later owned by Avid Technology from 1998-2008, and afterwards by Autodesk, which discontinued the software in 2015. The video below is a solid history of Softimage, explaining what made it special and how it changed over the years as ownership changed hands.

Langlois received much recognition in his lifetime for his achievements including a Scientific and Technical Oscar as well as honorary doctorates from Universite de Sherbrooke, McGill University, Concordia University, UQAM, and Ottawa University. In 1999, he was appointed Knight of the National Order of Quebec and named Officer of the Order of Canada the following year during which he also was named Personnalite Arts-Affaires of the city of Montreal. Just last month, the government of Dominica awarded Langlois a Meritorious Service Award.

After leaving Softimage in 1997, Langlois established the private, philanthropic charitable Daniel Langlois Foundation, which seeks to bring art and science closer together within a technological context on two levels: first, by nurturing a critical awareness of technologys impact on ourselves and on our natural and cultural environments and second, by promoting scientific research and the exploration of aesthetics reflecting the environments that we shape.
Netflix has posted an enlightening behind-the-scenes video for Scot Pilgrim Takes Off, in which showrunners Bryan Lee OMalley  who created the comic and series  and BenDavid Grabinski visit the shows Japanese animation studio Science Saru.

In the video, OMalley talks about his excitement when Netflix approached him with an idea to adapt Scott Pilgrim as an anime series.

Anime was a huge influence on me growing up. I would say, from the ages of 17-20, it was my favorite thing, he explains. I was obsessed with anime. I went to a lot of conventions. I was a fanboy.

Although he was a diehard fan when he was younger, OMalley never believed hed work on an anime project, especially not one based on his own creation.

It was not even a dream; it was beyond a dream, an impossible dream, he says. The fact that Im here right now in Tokyo and getting to work with Science Saru is just its unbelievable, but its true.

For both OMalley and Grabinski, Science Saru felt like a perfect fit from the moment they were brought onto the project. The studios credits include work done on feature films such as Lu Over the Wall and Inu-Oh and series like Devilman Crybaby, Star Wars Visions, and Adventure Time.

They have a very cinematic approach to anime. They dont want to do anything that is generic or cliched, says OMalley. Thats how I feel about my art as well, so I think they made a very good fit for us.

According to Grabinksi, hes been a Science Saru fan since seeing the Adventure Time episode Food Chain.

I thought it pushed the boundaries of what a commercial, accessible animated show could be, he explains. When I found out they were interested in doing the show, it felt to me like the most exciting thing you could do with the property.

A significant portion of the behind-the-scenes video is spent examining how the unique blend of a Western comic and Japanese animation studio created something so fresh.

In the video, Science Saru director Abel Gongora explains, I think the style is very special because its based on the comic but still has the touch of anime and Japanese designers. I think its a very beautiful mix of both. And, of course, it doesnt look like other anime projects because the comic is Western.

Character designer and executive animation director Masamichi Ishiyama is surprised he hasnt seen more crossovers like this in the past. When I heard Science Saru was going to produce Scott Pilgrim, I thought, Oh, theyre finally doing American comics.'

Mokochan, who directed episode three of the show, adds, I was really surprised by the novelty of the fusion of Japanese anime-style expressions and American comic-style expressions. The characters are cute, and the style of movement is also interesting. I thought it would definitely be something interesting if it were made into an anime in Japan.
Its been a whirlwind year for Quebec animator Janice Nadeau since the premiere of her animated short Harvey at the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival in France.

Since then, her National Film Board of Canada/Folimage co-production has been invited to some 70 international festivals, including Stuttgart, Annecy, Zagreb, and Ottawa, as well as the New York City Short Film Festival, the Newport Beach Film Festival, and the Chicago International Childrens Film Festival, here in the U.S.

Harvey has received eight awards and accolades to date, including best animated short at the New York City Short Film Festival and best international short at the Buenos Aires International Independent Film Festival.

A poetic and imaginative look at bereavement, Harvey tells the story of a young boy who recalls the spring day when his world turned upside down. The film was adapted from a graphic novel written by Herve Bouchard and illustrated by Nadeau herself.

As Harvey heads to L.A. to screen in competition at the Los Angeles Animation Festival, the NFB spoke with Nadeau about her film.

NFB: What was the idea, the inspiration, for this film?

Nadeau: The starting point was the graphic novel, of course. What prompted me to continue and expand this story into a film is that it was like a house with hundreds of doors. And the feeling that, whichever one I opened, I would find a way to approach it differently. The story it tells is so rich, and so are the themes: family, the invisible bonds between individuals, and the importance of listening to ones own voice.

Tell us about your creative process, your particular aesthetic approach.

The film takes place during childhood when the boundary between reality and imagination is easily crossed. The other element is that it happens in the spring. Thats where the aesthetic treatment came from. There are two kinds of spring in the story. The first is when theres still messy snow on the ground: it melts and becomes mud, slush That transitional period inspired me; its not bright like in summertime; its an in-between, an intermediate time. To convey that, I worked in pencil for the animation, and there was a smudging step, using charcoal so the line would be imperfect, delicate. We applied the color digitally in just three shades: blue, red, and yellow. There are more saturated colors in the last shot only; this is the second spring.

Whats it like switching from illustration to animation?

As an illustrator, Im focused on telling a story in a single image. I dont have to manage time in that image and can add all the details I want. When Im animating, though, I dont have access to the final imagery of the film. So, I work in layers. The backgrounds, objects, colors, and characters arent created at the same time; these elements get superimposed like the layers of an onion. I can also use images more to unfold the story, using sequences, editing, and storyboarding.

How did you choose a single narrative voice (Harveys)?

In the narration of the graphic novel, theres a convention when Harvey brings in a character. Its written: he said, my brother said, etc. I tried to transpose that convention to the script, but it became cumbersome. So, I switched to voices that would be performed by actors, but that didnt work either. After a lot of research, I went back to the idea of a narrated story. When Harvey tells the story, he does all the voices, even though thats jarring at times.

How did the NFB and Folimage enable you to take this project further?

The NFB provides the ideal conditions to create. Thats really the foundation. My producer, Marc Bertrand, has a gift for finding and assembling a brilliant team of collaborators. The team at the French Animation Studio is so efficient and so generous! They put everything in place for the filmmaker to nurture their project. Once the setup and the preparation were complete, Folimage took over for the animation side. This production studio, which has gone digital, went back to something more traditional with Harvey. They assembled a great little team to create part of the film using paper cutout animation, one of their specialties. Here, too, I was provided with solutions, which was a very constructive approach that made for a better film.

Harvey was co-produced by the National Film Board of Canada and Folimage and is an official selection at the Los Angeles Animation Festival (Dec 910, 2023).
Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos says the streamer plans to increase its investment in feature animation in 2024.

Speaking at UBS Global Media and Communication Conference on Monday, Sarandos said that Netflix will spend roughly $17 billion on programming content in 2024, as long as that figure stays in line with the companys growth. Part of that spend will include greater investment in feature animation.

According to Sarandos, animated titles are some of the most re-watched content by subscribers:

I know this sounds kind of old-fashioned, but since Nielsen has been tracking streaming, eight of the top 10 movies ever streamed are all animated features. Thats by viewing hours, so theres a lot of repeat watching going into it, but it adds a ton of value. Theres plenty of appetite for more than the few films a year that were currently doing.

Sarandos comments come as a bit of a surprise, given that Netflix recently laid off many workers from its animation division in a restructuring move meant to decrease the number of animated features produced in-house.

At the time, the company indicated it would acquire more projects from third-party producers through output deals, a cost-effective alternative to producing its own content. Maybe thats what Sarandos was talking about on Monday when he mentioned increased investment in animated films. For example, shortly after the Netflix Animation layoffs were announced, the company revealed it had closed a distribution deal with Luck producer Skydance Animation, further emphasizing a commitment to acquisition.

That said, Netflix originals have done exceptionally well in 2023, and the studio may be reevaluating its decision to produce fewer of its own titles. As we reported last week, Adam Sandlers new animated feature Leo had the biggest debut ever for a Netflix animated film over its first six days on the platform. The movie has been watched for 103 million hours after its first two weeks and looks like an absolute lock to pass The Sea Beasts 28-day viewing record of 165 million hours.

Sarandos referenced both Netflix original films during his talk, explaining, I think going from Sea Beast to Leo has been success to success for us in a very new business.

Other animated originals to debut strongly on the platform this year include The Monkey King, Miraculous: Ladybug & Cat Noir The Movie, and Nimona, to name a few. And Netflix will debut Aardman Animations Chicken Run sequel, Dawn of the Nugget, next week, which feels sure to be popular with families over the holidays.
Julian Castro, former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, will split time between California and Texas as head of the Latino Community Foundation. Matt Rourke/Associated Press

Former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julian Castro, a 2020 presidential candidate, will head the nations largest Latino-serving foundation starting in 2024, the foundation announced Wednesday.



Castro, who also served as mayor of San Antonio prior to joining the Obama administration, will become the new CEO for the San Francisco-based Latino Community Foundation, replacing outgoing head Jacqueline Martinez Garcel.

Jacqueline has done a phenomenal job of growing the endowment over the years, Castro said in an interview. He declined to offer specific goals for the organization before he starts Jan. 1. Id like to supercharge that effort, Castro said.

Americas destiny and the destiny of Latinos are intertwined, Castro said, as Latinos represent 19% of the U.S. population and are the fastest-growing racial and ethnic voting group: Only if Latinos do well, can the country as a whole do well because more than 25% of the kids in this country are Latino.

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Were in the drivers seat of Americas future, but to unlock the full potential of Latino communities and our nation as a whole, we must invest more in Latino and Latino-led organizations, Castro said. My vision is for LCF to fund a national movement of Latino power building that results in a more inclusive and equitable America.

Castro, who failed to win the Democratic nomination for president in a hotly contested race in 2020, currently lives in Texas. He said Tuesday that he doesnt plan to move to California but will travel often to the state. Castros name recognition could help to bring the foundation into the national spotlight as it endeavors to both deepen the foundations footprint in California and bring its blueprint for social progress to Latinos across the country, according to the foundation.

Castro told the Chronicle he envisions that would mean not only expanding to other states with large Latino populations like Texas, Arizona and Nevada, but to small rural communities in other states.

The Latino community doesnt just exist in states like California and Texas and Florida, its all over the place now, Castro said. The needs are tremendous.

But Castro said he doesnt envision the foundation decreasing its work in California.

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Founded in 1989, the LCF boasts the largest network Latino philanthropists in the country. It has invested over $29.6 million into more than 400 grassroots, predominantly Latino-led nonprofits across the state, and in all has raised $97 million to build Latino civic and political power. The LCF said in the most recent Get out the Vote and Census campaigns, the organization reached over 31 million Latinos, and it played a significant role in getting Californias Latino voter registration rate up to 73%, the highest in history.

Noting that Latino voters will be key in who wins several battleground House districts in California that will determine control of Congress next year, Castro said, In a nonpartisan way, were going to be involved with making sure that Latinos are informed and that theyre mobilized to get out and vote and exercise that franchise. And eventually were going to make sure that that happens outside California as well.

Castro did not shut the door on his political career, however.

Ive chosen not to get into politics right now. That doesnt mean I never will in the future, but Im currently focused on making this my contribution to making an impact on other peoples lives, Castro said. So I never say never. And I may well consider that down the road, but the only thing Im focused on right now is doing an excellent job at the Latino Community Foundation and helping to lift up other people that way.
A mural dating to around 1939 was uncovered during construction in the Mission District. Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle Initials with the date of 7/17/39 are seen on an old mural that was uncovered during construction in the Mission District. Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle

The demolition of a vacant building in San Franciscos Mission District led to a rare find last week: a nearly century-old mural, hidden to the public eye for decades.

Nate Halverson was up on his buildings roof taking in the sunrise last Wednesday when some early morning construction caught his eye. At a parking lot near the intersection of Valencia and Cesar Chavez streets, a worker in an excavator was taking down a vacant building to make way for new construction. Halverson watched as the debris peeled away, revealing behind it a 1930s Chevrolet dealership mural.

The mural itself isnt dated, but a light bulb-shaped graffiti tag dated July 17, 1939, places the mural somewhere during or before the 1930s. Another tag, painted below the mural, is dated 1935.

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Murals such as this one are often referred to as ghost signs  hand-painted advertisements from the 19th and 20th centuries before neon signs and modern printed billboards became popular. Other San Francisco ghost signs advertise Coca-Cola or Wrigleys gum and were painted anywhere from 1915 to 1950.

This ghost sign invited customers to browse new and used Chevrolet vehicles at Mission Chevrolet Co., which also offered parts and repairs, according to the fading painted text on the side of the building.

Adjacent to the sign is another piece of local history: the former Sears building, which housed the department chains flagship San Francisco store until it shuttered in 1975. Residents of the since-converted lofts said the ghost sign was hidden behind another building that was recently torn down as developers get ready to turn the parking lot into a senior living complex.

Its a fitting place to find an early 20th century piece of art, Halverson said  the former Sears building is filled with artists living and working in the lofts, while the senior living complex may soon house people who were born just as the mural was being painted.

A representative for Sequoia Living, the nonprofit developing the parking lot, did not respond to a request for comment about the mural. Halverson said hes seen construction crews return to the site since last week to remove debris, but that the mural has remained untouched.

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Jorge Molina, 80, was one of the first residents in the former Sears building after it opened to residents. Even before that, hed been in the area working as a holiday hire for Sears in 1965. But Molina doesnt remember seeing the mural, or a Chevrolet dealership.

Instead, he recalled it was once the site of an OReilly Auto Parts shop. Before that, fellow building resident David Perez remembers a different auto parts store there. Now its home to a Harley Davidson dealership.

By the time Perez moved into the former Sears building in 1986, the building blocking the mural was already there, he said. But on the outer wall facing Valencia Street, two circular logos with vintage Chevrolets embossed in the concrete hinted at the buildings history.

Since the mural was discovered last week, Halverson said its become a showstopper, prompting passersby to stop and take a picture. Molina said it also inspired him and other residents to look into the history of the building and the area. Some local history buffs even uncovered old photos of the area showing the original mural.

It has made researchers out of us all, Molina said. Now were all exploring.

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Brooke Biggs was born in San Francisco and has unknowingly lived next to the mural for 22 years. Though its just one of many old ghost signs around the city, Biggs said, she hopes the developers will find a way to preserve the mural.
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators wait in line to comment during a Board of Supervisors meeting at City Hall in San Francisco on Tuesday. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Pro-Palestinian demonstrators silently cheer a comment during a Board of Supervisors meeting at City Hall in San Francisco on Tuesday. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Ramzi Jada leads a chant as pro-Palestinian demonstrators wait in line outside a Board of Supervisors meeting at City Hall in San Francisco on Tuesday. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Supervisor Dean Preston introduced the proposed resolution calling for a cease-fire in Gaza. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Pro-Palestinian demonstrators wait in line to get into the Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle

Hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters packed City Hall Tuesday, marching its halls chanting cease-fire now in support of a resolution by Supervisor Dean Preston calling for an end to hostilities in the Israel-Hamas war and condemning Islamophobia and antisemitism.

Preston, who is Jewish and whose father and grandparents fled the Holocaust, held back tears as he asked his colleagues to support him in calling for an end to the Israel-Hamas war.

The resolution calls for a cease-fire, the release of all hostages and the provision of lifesaving humanitarian aid in Gaza. It also condemns rhetoric and attacks based on racial and religious prejudice.



Pro-Palestinian protesters cheered for a full minute after Preston introduced the measure as dozens of others chanted in the halls. Several hundred people could be seen lining up at the board chambers door just before 4 p.m. to comment, almost all of whom appeared to be in support of the cease-fire.

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Pro-Palestinian organizers said an estimated 2,000 people showed up to City Hall on Tuesday in support of the resolution. During seven hours of public comment, only one person spoke against the resolution.

The resolution comes days after a pause in the conflict between Israel and Hamas ended following the release of hostages taken during the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas and of Palestinians held in Israeli prisons over the past week. In the past two days, hostilities have reignited and the death toll has increased.

An emotional Preston said he introduced the resolution in part because of a close Palestinian friend who in the past days has lost seven members of her family, and over 100 family members total since Oct. 7.

Ive been moved to tears by these stories, not just today, but all week, Preston said. The heartbreak, the trauma, that so many people are going through right now, not just because of whats happening thousands of miles away, but because of how its been weaponized in this country through propaganda and disinformation and conspiracy theories, a cease-fire, humanitarian aid and release of all hostages are an essential ingredient for peace abroad and safety and security here in our city.

Prestons office said they expected the resolution to be sent to committee, and that a vote on the full resolution wont likely take place until the new year, prompting some protesters to loudly chant vote next Tuesday outside the chamber.



Its unknown whether a majority of the Board of Supervisors supports the resolution as only Ronen and Preston have co-sponsored it.



But while it was unclear how they felt about the resolution, supervisors Matt Dorsey, Rafael Mandelman, Catherine Stefani and Myrna Melgar attended an event earlier on Tuesday to plant 138 Israeli flags in front of City Hall to honor the remaining hostages kidnapped during the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks.



During the event, Mandelman said, If the fight comes to the Board of Supervisors, its not going to be me that introduces it. We need to stay in our lane. Stefani and Dorsey said they condemned the actions of Hamas during their speeches.



The city is one of several in the country that have considered or passed resolutions calling for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. In the Bay Area, Richmond and Oakland passed resolutions calling for a cease-fire.

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Prestons three-page resolution outlines the toll the war has had on both Israelis and Palestinians, noting that at least 15,000 Palestinians and over 1,200 Israelis lost their lives between Oct. 7 and Dec. 4. It calls out Hamas for its brutal attack on Oct. 7, but also notes Israels sustained and devastating military assault on Gaza since then.

The resolution comes after weeks of local protests calling for a cease-fire, many of which have attracted thousands of demonstrators.

Most importantly for Preston, the resolution calls on the board to act on their shared humanity.

Hundreds of thousands of lives are at imminent risk in Gaza without a sustained cease-fire and without massive humanitarian relief, the resolution says, noting that the United Nations General Assembly on Oct. 26 passed a resolution calling for an immediate, durable and sustained humanitarian truce between Israel and Hamas.

I understand that there are some advocates who have publicly cautioned against introducing a resolution of any kind on this topic, Preston said. It is regrettable that some have mischaracterized this resolution, which was drafted based on input we received from a wide array of stakeholders, to silence those who are calling for a cease-fire rather than seeking common ground to address this humanitarian crisis that has already taken too many lives.

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Supervisor Hillary Ronen, who co-sponsored the resolution and is also Jewish, said she wants a cease-fire because of the lessons her family members taught her, some of whom fled the Holocaust or were forever traumatized by it.

By supporting the resolution before us and calling for an end to the killing of hostages, bombing, starving and dehumanization of people in Palestine and Israel, I am not antisemitic. I am not one-sided. I am not overstepping the bounds of my job, Ronen said. I am engaging very thoughtfully in a conflict fueled by my and my constituents tax dollars. And this conflict is deeply rooted in my personal life and my identity. The world must finally stand up and demand a lasting peace for Israel and Palestine.

Samer Araabi, one of the organizers of Tuesdays mass action in favor of the resolution, said the showing is a sign that an overwhelming majority of San Franciscans stand for a cease-fire. Thats in line with some national polling that suggests 61% of voters support de-escalation and a permanent cease-fire in Gaza, including 76% of Democrats, 57% of independents and 49% of Republicans, which constitutes a plurality.

Araabi said its a no-brainer to support a cease-fire.

If we want this conflict to de-escalate, if we want to address the underlying root issues that have produced it, the only way we can do that is by getting people to sit down and talk to each other, Araabi said. Increased violence doesnt do anything. Thats not just a sort of ideological take, but also a practical one based on an understanding of history. I would challenge anyone to point to a single instance in time that a massive military bombardment has resulted in the eradication of a domestic armed group. It doesnt happen.
Downer EDI Limited (Downer) today announced it had successfully completed the refinancing of $500 million of its $1.4 billion syndicated sustainability linked loan facility (Facility).

The Facility comprises four separate tranches with different maturities. Refinancing of the $500 million tranche maturing in November 2024, the shortest time left to maturity, was launched in October 2023.

In addition, Downer has also established a new sustainability linked financing framework, which will further strengthen the Groups sustainability credentials by supporting the issuance of sustainability linked loans and contingent instruments, such as bank guarantees and performance bonds, across the Groups broader financing portfolio.

The Chief Financial Officer of Downer, Malcolm Ashcroft, welcomed the successful refinancing, which materially improves Downers debt maturity profile.

The refinancing reduces Downers medium-term refinancing risks, provides a more balanced debt maturity profile, and confirms the strength of Downers balance sheet, Mr Ashcroft said.

Establishment of the new sustainability linked financing framework is also important, as it enables both existing and future financings to be designated as sustainability linked, providing greater alignment between the Groups financing and sustainability strategies. This highlights Downers ongoing commitment to strong sustainability performance and investment in our people.

Mr Ashcroft thanked the bank group for their support of the new facility, which received strong backing from the Groups relationship financiers.

The refinancing was jointly arranged by the Mandated Lead Arrangers and Bookrunners Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited, Mizuho Bank, Ltd, MUFG Bank, Ltd, and Westpac Banking Corporation, with Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited and MUFG Bank, Ltd also acting as Sustainability Co-ordinators.

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December 20th Morning Report


Hamilton County Schools and AGC East Tennessee are partnering to present a Construction Career Expo this Friday for 10th grade high school students interested in exploring career opportunities in the construction industry."The Career Expo is designed for 10th-grade students from Hamilton County who express interest in the construction trades," organizers said. "Participants will have the chance to experience hands-on demonstrations with heavy equipment and tools, gaining valuable insights into diverse career paths within the field.Local construction employers specializing in electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, masonry, construction management and other related areas will lead engaging demonstrations and interactive activities."The expo will take place from 9:30 a.m-3:30 p.m. at Construction Career Center, 2225 Roanoke Ave. in Chattanooga. Interested 10th grade Hamilton County Students and their parents are invited to attend."The purpose of this event is to enhance students' comprehension of the construction industry, offering them the chance to connect with industry experts and educators and gain valuable insights into potential careers in the field," organizers said.Visit the Construction Career Center website to learn more about the event.
Secretary of State Tre Hargett on Tuesday certified the names of nine Republicans and one Democratic presidential candidate for the March 5, 2024, Super Tuesday Presidential Preference Primary and County Primary Election. On Super Tuesday, 15 other states will join Tennessee in helping decide each partys presidential nominee.





The following candidates will be on Tennessees March 5, 2024, ballot:



Republican Primary Ballot:



Ryan Binkley

Doug Burgum

Chris Christie

Ron DeSantis

Nikki Haley

Asa Hutchinson

Vivek Ramaswamy

David Stuckenberg

Donald J.

Democratic Primary Ballot:

Joseph R. Biden

I encourage these candidates to visit Tennessee and hear the thoughts and concerns of Tennessee voters, said Secretary Hargett. I believe if these candidates will follow Tennessees lead our nation will be stronger for future generations.





Tuesday at noon was also the deadline for candidates to seek ballot access by filing a nominating petition signed by 2,500 registered voters. One petition was filed by Democratic candidate Dean Phillips. County election commissions will review the signatures to determine if he has met the threshold to be added to the Mach 5, 2024 ballot.





Presidential Primary candidates have until Tuesday, Dec. 12 at noon to withdraw their name from the March 5, 2024, ballot.





Early voting for the March 5, 2024, Super Tuesday Presidential Preference Primary and County Primary Election starts Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024, and runs Monday to Saturday until Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024.
Public charter school Ivy Academy Chattanooga announces the vice president of their board, Dr. Patti Skates, will be serving as a member of the Tennessee State Boards School Board Training Advisory Committee in 2024. The state board is responsible for approving the training courses that local school board members and charter school governing body members complete to meet their annual training requirements.In 2021, the state board established an advisory committee to review applications and make recommendations to the board for approval of local school board member training.The rule was recently expanded to allow the committee to review and recommend charter school governing body training as well. As part of this expansion, qualified and experienced charter school board members were solicited as candidates for this committee, and Dr. Skates has now been confirmed as a member.Dr. Skates holds a doctorate in educational leadership and is a retired Hamilton County educator. She has received numerous awards in education and civic service, among them are the National Academy Teacher of the Year, Tennessee Social Science Teacher of the Year, Award of Recognition for Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities, U.S. Army Civilian Award of Service and Chattanooga Bar Award. Dr. Skates has served as the Hamilton County Social Studies Textbook Committee chair. Dr. Skates was the first woman elected to the Soddy-Daisy City Commission and also served as vice mayor for the city.Ivy Academy Executive Director Holly Slater said, Charter schools are meant to be leaders in education within our state, so it only makes sense that quality board members of a charter school would be selected to serve on this committee.Ivys Chief Consultant Angie Markum said, I knew when we sought out Patti to be on the Ivy board, that we would be working with a winner. She displays a level of service to her community that is uncommon. We are grateful for the time she has served here, and we look forward to her influence at the state level.
Chattanoogas Department of Community Development would like to invite the public to attend the dedication ceremony for Zoie Nash this Saturday at 1 p.m. at the East Lake Community Center,3610 Dodds Ave. in Chattanooga.Zoie was one of the six children who lost their lives in the Woodmore Elementary bus crash on Nov. 21, 2016. She was a frequent participant in East Lake Community Center programming and was a member of the centers softball team, The East Lake Khaos.In honor of Zoie, the department will unveil a memorial statue that will sit outside in front of the center, and Mayor Kelly will present the family with a proclamation.There will be remarks from city representatives and family, along with a balloon release. Light refreshments will be served.
Anna Ball White and Erica Moreland Jewelry announce a "PAWsitively Fabulous" holiday shopping spree - a chic and philanthropic affair benefiting Humane Educational Society (HES). The boutique fundraiser is set to take place on Thursday from noon-4 p.m. at Anna Ball White, located at 2021 Hamilton Pl Blvd D.

Officials said, "PAWsitively Fabulous promises to be an unforgettable experience, bringing together community-minded individuals, philanthropic women, and a few good men who share a passion for supporting a worthy cause in a stylish and innovative way. The event will feature a delightful blend of shopping with purpose, friendship, and generosity, creating an atmosphere that is both festive and charitable.

"Join us for a 'Pawsitively Fabulous' event hosted by the compassionate Trish Foy at her exquisite Anna Ball White boutique this Thursday."

Ms. Foy said, "Lets celebrate the unconditional love animals shower upon us throughout the year, and dedicate this day to giving back to those animals in need of loving homes.

Highlights of PAWsitively Fabulous include:

Chic Shopping: Discover unique and stylish gifts from local vendors, ensuring that your holiday shopping is not only enjoyable but also supports local businesses.



Philanthropic Spirit: Every sale at PAWsitively Fabulous contributes directly to the Humane Educational Society. Attendees can take pride in knowing that their holiday purchases are making a positive impact on the lives of animals in need.



PAWsitively Fabulous is a new annual shop local series to benefit Humane Educational Society. This engaging and philanthropic affair brings together a community of individuals committed to making a positive impact on the lives of animals in need.
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The Cleveland City Board of Education has approved a series of strategic infrastructure and facilities plans within the district. Recognizing a 33 percent increase in student enrollment over the past two decades, Cleveland City Schools has approved an expansion plan for Candy's Creek Cherokee Elementary School in addition to a $1.3 million contract for additional renovations in the new administrative office building on Raider Drive.

The renovation project for the administrative office building is scheduled to start in January 2024 with an expected completion in July 2024.

Simultaneously, the Board has allocated $2.9 million for the expansion of Candy's Creek Cherokee Elementary School for six extra classrooms.

Officials said, "This expansion is a critical component of the district's comprehensive approach to meeting the increasing demand for quality education, given the sustained growth in student enrollment."

The anticipated timeline for this expansion project is from June 2024 to January 2025.



Officials said, "The administrative office renovations and elementary school expansion align seamlessly with the broader vision outlined in the Cleveland City Schools' future facilities plan.

Looking ahead, the Cleveland City Board of Education remains proactive and committed to addressing these growing numbers. Plans are already underway, exploring the possibility of a new intermediate school and an expansion at the high school to accommodate the evolving needs of the student population."
Plans are underway as the final phases of construction wrap up at Cloudland at McLemore. When the Cloudland at McLemore Resort Lookout Mountain, Curio by Hilton opens next Spring, the professional team will be welcoming guests for experiences above the clouds.

McLemore is hosting two on-site job fairs for individuals interested in joining the team on Dec. 12 and Jan. 9. On Dec. 12, prospective employees are asked to visit McLemore from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The job fair on Jan. 9 will be held from noon-6 p.m. The address for both events is 32 Clubhouse Lane atop Lookout Mountain.

The hotel will offer 245 guest rooms, including 19 suites and 20,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting and event space.

Positions are being filled for various positions. Individuals hired will not only be working for the Hilton brand but also for global brand, Valor Hospitality which manages properties across the Americas, UK, Europe, Middle East, South Africa, North and West Africa and the Commonwealth Independent States.



Cloudlands General Manager Mike Burton said, Were offering employment opportunities that are as unique as the setting McLemore provides. Were looking for team members with equal levels of professionalism and excitement about the special place we will be welcoming guests to beginning next Spring.



Mr. Burton noted that the company will be hiring both hourly and salaried positions ranging from client services managers to spa estheticians and client service representatives, as well as housekeeping and many other positions.

Duane Horton, president of Scenic Land Company, the parent company of McLemore notes, Were excited to welcome guests from around the world to enjoy an unparalleled blend of high-touch service and luxury amenities perched upon breathtaking Lookout Mountain. Providing Southern hospitality and an unforgettable travel experience is our top priority. We look forward to working with a team comprised of individuals who share our philosophy of providing the finest service above the clouds.



McLemore and Cloudland at McLemore Curio Collection by Hilton/ Valor Hospitality are equal employer opportunity (EEO) companies.
The City Council on Tuesday began to lay out a schedule for a major zoning overhaul.

Chris Anderson of the mayor's office said the current zoning framework was set up in 1961.

He said, "This will give us a new toolbox with new shiny tools to replace the rusty toolbox with mis-matched tools that has been thrown together over the decades."

Mr. Anderson said the plan, which covers over 180 pages, does not change anyone's current zoning.

He said it sets a framework for future zoning decisions, including allowing residential development on smaller lot sizes.

Mr. Anderson said, "We will give recommendations for up zoning and down zoning, but not for forced zoning."

He said the least changed areas will be those where single-family neighborhoods now exist.

Aspects of the plan should be effective in dealing with the city's "affordable housing crisis," he said.

Under the tentative schedule, a public information session would be held on Jan. 10 at the Development Resource Center followed by a session at the Family Justice Center. There was also discussion of having a virtual information session.

The City Council would have a work session on the document on Jan. 30 at 1 p.m. with possible passage on first reading on Feb. 13 and second reading on Feb. 20.

Councilwoman Carol Berz asked that the staff come up with bulletin points giving the highlights of the complex rewrite so that could be given out to constituents.

There will also be a copy of the summary in Spanish, it was stated.

Officials said the redrawing of the zoning maps will be part of the Plan Chattanooga project to come up with new area plans for all parts of the county.
EPB Quantum Network powered by Qubitekk Tuesday announced that it will host Qunnect, a leader in quantum-secure networking technology, for a series of on-site collaborative validation runs. Qunnect will work with Qubitekk to utilize EPB Quantum Network to determine the interoperability of key quantum technologies across a quantum network. This demonstration will mark the first time two commercial quantum networking companies have operated their hardware to jointly support a distribution protocol.

Its especially appropriate for us to have the opportunity to work with Qunnect as our first customer because together were demonstrating the collaborative spirit thats necessary to accelerate the development of quantum technologies into commercial application, said EPB President and CEO David Wade. By working with pioneering companies like Qunnect, were positioning Chattanooga as a destination for quantum developers to run, develop and validate their equipment and applications.

EPB Quantum Network and Qunnects GothamQ are among the first commercially available quantum networks in the U.S. Most quantum networks today are privately owned and operated, limiting access to developers to run their technologies. EPB Quantum Network and Qunnect have the same goal of hosting networks open to companies to advance quantum technologies out of the lab and into the real world.

EPB and Qunnect share the vision of building quantum networks that can enable the foundation of the quantum internet and foster solutions possible through quantum technology development, said Qunnect CEO Noel Goddard. Running our equipment on EPB Quantum Network is a unique opportunity to demonstrate interoperability between quantum component providers on a dedicated commercial network infrastructure.

Until recently most quantum technology development has focused on research and not practical application. EPB Quantum Network and Qunnect are both committed to accelerating the commercialization of quantum technologies to support the development of deployable networks.

Qunnects hardware drives GothamQ, a 50-kilometer network in New York, with two branches each capable of supporting six entanglement nodes that connect the company's R&D facility in Brooklyn to Queens and Manhattan.

EPB Quantum Networks 8-kilometer loop has capacity for 10 quantum interconnected user nodes across downtown Chattanooga using commercial network equipment designed and manufactured by Qubitekk.

This demonstration is a great representation of how the quantum industry can play a leading role in driving quantum technology from the lab to practical commercial application, said Qubitekk President, CTO and Co-Founder Dr. Duncan Earl. Were excited to work with the talented teams at Qunnect and EPB to do just that.
NZX-listed wool carpet manufacturer Bremworth has appointed a new Chief Financial Officer, as the company looks to accelerate its growth programme across its domestic and international markets.

Mandy Tomkins-Dancey has been named replacement of long-serving CFO Victor Tan who is retiring from the position.

Tomkins-Dancey will join the company in March next year. Over the past 27 years, Tomkins-Dancey has worked in finance roles in the pharmaceutical, viticulture and advertising sectors across New Zealand, Australia and US - most recently as CFO for the Skin Institute chain.

Greg Smith, CEO of Bremworth, says the appointment of the new CFO comes at a pivotal time in the companys history.

Earlier this year, our flood-impacted Hawkes Bay facility was taken offline during Cyclone Gabrielle.

While the disruption has been significant in many aspects of our operations, we were well prepared and are now emerging as a significantly stronger, leaner and more resilient business.

The CFO role plays an essential role in ensuring we are not only ready to weather these events but also to adapt dynamically to our new operating environment.

Over the course of the coming year and beyond, Bremworth will be looking to accelerate its growth in new channels and new global markets. Mandys extensive experience as CFO across a diverse range of industries and countries will be critical in providing the strategic financial guidance we need to grow, he says.

Smith says he also wants to acknowledge the 40 years of professionalism and loyalty to the company provided by retiring CFO Victor Tan.

Victor has provided expert guidance, astute governance and insights and we are grateful to have had his support throughout his tenure with us and also to retain his expertise as Company Secretary, he says.

7 December 2023

-ENDS-

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December 20th Morning Report


The City Council on Tuesday night denied a special exceptions permit for a new liquor store on McCallie Avenue near Central.

The owners of the Kankus convenience store at the corner said the plan was to construct a three-story building at the vacant lot behind Kankus. It was to have a liquor store on the first floor and apartments on the upper floors.

The future plan was to build more apartments on the adjacent vacant lot.

However, a number of nearby neighbors showed up in opposition.

Merri Mai Williamson, longtime MLK Neighborhood spokesperson, said many homeless and transients frequent the convenience store. She said when the store opened there was an understanding that the store would not sell "tall boy" alcoholic beverages, but it did anyway.

She said there is a constant problem of the neighborhood being trashed despite an effort to install new trash cans. She said, "You see trash and broken bottles right by the trash cans."

Ms. Williamson also said there are several sororities and fraternities nearby.

She said, "Making alcohol more available is not a good idea for the neighborhood."

The Kankus owners said they would cooperate with the neighborhood and police on safety and cleanliness. They said the new liquor store would provide a better lighted spot.

Councilwoman Marvene Noel made the motion to deny, saying she was siding with the wishes of the neighborhood.
Police were sent to do a wellness check on a woman on Caruthers Road and found her in the driveway of the residence and she was extremely intoxicated. The woman said she and a man had gotten into an argument and he got into his vehicle and left. The woman said nothing physical had occurred during the argument. The officer later spoke with the man over the phone and he said the argument started when he pulled up to the house and saw the woman get out of a strangers car that was in the driveway. The man said that after words were exchanged, he decided to leave and cool off.

* * *

Vehicles owners and staff at Avail Industries at 1919 W. Polymer Dr. told police a suspect in an unknown black Kia SUV went through the parking lot of the business and broke into two unlocked vehicles. Both owners stated nothing was broken or taken from the vehicles.

* * *

A man on Brookmead Circle reported to police fraud on his SSI benefits card. Somehow two transactions occurred where money was removed from the account in Illinois and New York. Direct Express instructed the man to make a police report so they could issue a refund for his money.

* * *

A man on 9th Avenue told police he needed law enforcement to go with him to his ex-girlfriends house to get his belongings. Police escorted him without incident.

* * *

An officer on foot patrol in Miller Park saw a woman sitting at a table with two open beer cans in paper bags. As the officer approached her, she saw the officer and attempted to hide the alcohol, and then later said they werent hers. She was issued a written warning for the open container violation, and the officer made her pour the alcohol out.

* * *

A woman called police and said she accidentally hit a parked, unoccupied vehicle in the parking lot at Hamilton Place. She was driving a black Mercedes belonging to her boyfriend. She felt the hit but was unsure which vehicle she made contact with and attempted to locate the vehicle but was unable to. She didnt want a crash report, but wanted to document the encounter in case someone else calls in.

* * *

A woman returned to her white Mercedes after work at 313 Manufacturers Road and found a large dent and scratches/black marks on the passenger side back quarter panel. She didnt see the damage occur.

* * *

A man told police he was arrested that day for criminal trespassing at his neighbor's residence and he now wanted to trespass the woman and her daughter from coming to his property. Police explained to the woman and her daughter they were not allowed on the mans property. They both stated their understanding.

* * *

Walmart loss prevention employees at 501 Signal Mountain Road provided police footage of a suspect concealing merchandise. Police and loss prevention personnel intercepted the suspect and a friend at the grocery door and escorted them back to the loss prevention office. The merchandise was recovered and the suspect was let off with a warning.

* * *

A woman in an apartment on Vista Drive told police she heard a man and woman arguing above her. An officer went up to the apartment and spoke to the woman occupant who said she heard arguing from the apartment above her in the past. She said she had just come home. The officer then went to the above apartment and spoke to a man who allowed the officer to walk through his apartment. The man said he had heard arguing from the apartment below him in the past, but that he hadn't heard anything that night.

* * *

Police were called to Exile Bar at 1634 Rossville Ave. where a neighbor claimed the bar was again too loud and that large crowds were gathered in the parking lot behind the establishment. The officer drove the area and didnt see any large crowds and the music was not excessively loud.

* * *

Police spoke to a man sleeping under a No Trespassing sign on Peeples Street. The officer told the man he was trespassing and he acknowledged it and moved along with little fuss.

* * *

Police responded to a disorder on E. 45th Street and found a woman and her son both under the influence of alcohol. Both agreed they were having a verbal argument, so they decided to make a statement to clarify their situation. They temporarily resolved the issue by separating from each other. The son chose to stay in his room for the night, while the mother agreed to keep her distance and avoid any further conflict.
The Georgia Department of Community Health is proposing a change in the staffing requirements for memory care units in assisted living facilities. This proposal eliminates the staffing requirement of a minimum of two direct care staff on the floor at all times in each memory care unit. Families place their loved ones in these facilities to ensure they are kept safe. This is not safe.

Today 42 percent of all assisted living residents live with Alzeimers or other dementia and 100 percent of memory care residents have progressed in their journey with Alzheimer's. Reducing staff in memory care places other residents and other staff at risk as well.

During the 2020 Legislative session, the General Assembly agreed with the Alzheimer's Association and Georgia families and passed senior care reform through HB 987 which required minimum staffing to keep our seniors and Alzheimer's patients safe and improve the quality of care.

The Department of Community Health is holding a public comment period concerning these staffing changes. Please join the Alzheimer's Association, advocates and Georgia families in letting DCH know this is not acceptable.

Jim Williams
Governo Bill Lee, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter and Genera officials announced on Wendesday the company will invest nearly $350 million to expand production and distribution at its Vonore, Tn., Sustainable Biomaterials Campus.

Genera will create more than 230 new jobs in Monroe County over the next five years, bringing the companys total headcount in Tennessee to approximately 350 people.



The expansion adds 150,000 square feet to the existing facility and state-of-the-art equipment, including more than 60 robotically controlled thermoforming machines, a fleet of autonomously guided vehicles and automated packaging lines.



Initially founded under the University of Tennessee System, Genera has grown to become North Americas largest vertically integrated manufacturer of circular, compostable packaging solutions for food and consumer products, retail, and food service. Generas products are made from locally grown regenerative grasses, offering consumers sustainable alternatives to plastics with direct benefits to local farms and communities and a significantly lower carbon impact. Genera is headquartered in Vonore, with an innovation center in Houston.



Since 2019, TNECD has supported 55 economic development projects in the East Tennessee region, resulting in approximately 8,000 job commitments and $2 billion in capital investment.



Governor Lee said, With a strong business climate, highly skilled workforce and sound infrastructure system statewide, Tennessee is poised to support new and existing business growth. I thank Genera for creating hundreds of new jobs for families across rural East Tennessee and look forward to the positive impact this project will have on the Monroe County community.

TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter said, Agriculture is a key driver of our states economy and will be further strengthened thanks to Generas significant investment. This expansion would not be possible without dedicated community leaders that have taken the necessary steps to attract new business to Vonore and Monroe County, and we are proud to take part in helping bring this project to fruition.



Genera CEO Ben Mascarello said, Tennessee continues to be an ideal location for Genera to lead the transition to a biobased economy. Weve developed great long-term partnerships with local landowners, and weve built an extremely talented team. Robust financial commitments from our ownership group are enabling us to rapidly scale our manufacturing to meet the needs of our growing customer base.



Monroe County Mayor Mitch Ingram said, We are truly blessed that Genera not only chose to call Monroe County home but also continues to invest in our county with this expansion. We are thrilled to be a part of this announcement, as its a testament to our county's commitment to economic growth. This enterprise signifies a harmonious integration of our robust agriculture and thriving manufacturing sectors, showcasing the collaboration that propels our community forward. As county mayor, I believe this partnership not only strengthens our local economy but also sets a precedent for sustainable development, solidifying our position as an example for progress in the state."



John Bradley, TVA senior vice president of economic development said, TVA and Fort Loudoun Electric Cooperative congratulate Genera on its decision to establish operations in Monroe County. Working to attract new job opportunities and investment in the region is fundamental to TVAs mission of service. We are proud to partner with the Monroe County mayors office, Monroe County Commission, Monroe County Economic Development, City of Vonore, Tellico Area Services Systems, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development and East Tennessee Economic Development Agency to further that mission and celebrate this announcement together.



Senator Art Swann (R-Maryville) said, This is major news for Vonore. Genera is creating more than 230 new jobs, which will boost the local economy and provide more quality jobs for the community. Congratulations to Genera for their success. I appreciate the work of state and local officials who worked with Genera to help facilitate this major expansion."

Rep. Lowell Russell (R-Vonore) said, This expansion is a significant investment by Genera that will benefit our community and its future. Not only will this project create hundreds of new jobs, but it will make our local economy even stronger. I congratulate everyone involved with this announcement and appreciate Generas continued commitment to Monroe County.
Wildlife Officer Russell Vandergriff is retiring after 33 years of serving the citizens of Tennessee. Mr. Vandergriffs commitment and dedication supported improvements in turkey populations, advanced outreach initiatives, and upheld the TWRA mission.

Mr. Vandergriff was hired in 1990 in Marion County and spent the entirety of his career there. Although an avid hunter, angler, and trapper, he had an affinity for turkey hunting. He won five state turkey calling competitions and enjoyed being part of a trapping and relocation program in the early 1990s that resulted in countywide turkey populations.

He enjoyed not just the law enforcement aspect of the agency, but also biological work. He helped band doves and Canada geese and performed surveys for wood ducks and other wildlife. Additionally, Mr. Vandergriff worked to help educate youth through hunter education classes, school and community programs, youth deer hunts at Prentice Cooper Wildlife Management Area and fishing events.

Mr. Vandergriffs outstanding career is reflected in the many awards he received, including a lifesaving commendation, National Wild Turkey Federation Officer of the Year, Area Officer of the Year, Safari Club International Officer of the Year, Hunter Education Officer of the Year, and more.

Russell has been a friend to Tennessee sportsmen and women, and hell be missed, said Captain Jeff Bishop. Thirty-three years of knowledge in one county will be irreplaceable.

When asked what hed miss in retirement, Mr. Vandergriff said, Ill miss working with other officers. Theyre amazing, dedicated people. He communicated his thankfulness for the partnerships and supportive people in Marion County. He voiced how supportive his parents, his wife Melisa, daughters, son-in-law, and grandsons have been. He said, Theyve all encouraged and supported me in this career, and Im blessed and grateful.

Mr. Vandergriff looks forward to more time hunting and fishing. Hell also captain a boat for his grandsons fishing team, participate at tractor pulls with his father, and spend quality family time making memories through travel and time outdoors.
Prince William and Prince Harry were fairly close growing up, but in recent years, the two men have grown apart. And now, rumors surface that William is 'envious' of his brother.

Prince William and Prince Harry have not had a close relationship in years. And while the two brothers always shared plenty of common ground, they have reportedly always been different. William knew from a young age that he was destined to be the future king. Harry, on the other hand, always felt like he was the spare in the family  hence the name of his bombshell memoir.

While people might think it was Harry who was always jealous of his big brother, recent claims suggest the opposite  and that William has always been envious of his brothers ability to leave the family.

Prince William and Prince Harry | Jack Taylor/Getty Images

Prince William is envious of Prince Harry  but doesnt feel trapped

Harry has something that William never will: Freedom. Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, stepped back from their working royal roles back in 2020, and they have since settled down and begun living a new life in Montecito, California. Theyre raising their two children away from the royal limelight and have the freedom to build any business or brand they choose for themselves. And while William might not necessarily feel trapped in his royal role, he reportedly has always been a bit jealous of Harrys ability to disappear.

A source close to William told me that the heir feels far from [trapped] in any system, wrote royal expert Omid Scobie in his new book, Endgame, according to Express. But we do know that there are persisting reports that William has been  and always will be  envious of Harrys freedom to break away from the royal establishment.

Despite that William might be envious of the idea that Harry has more freedom than him, he reportedly doesnt want to disassociate from the royal family. A source within [Williams] team at Kensington Palace says that, as an adult in his forties, the former Duke of Cambridge has fully embraced the path that hes on, Scobie writes.

Prince William is looking toward becoming king

Sure, the future king might occasionally wish he could press pause on his royal life at any given time, but that doesnt mean he isnt taking his role seriously. William and his wife, Kate Middleton, have been working hard to establish themselves as the future of the monarchy, with William traveling globally quite a bit in order to put his name out there and build connections the royals didnt previously have.

William and Kate are also working parents, and despite the excitement about the monarchy, theyre more focused on raising their three kids. In some ways, it might give them a sense of normalcy to know they can parent Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis well-outside of the spotlight without the public thinking anything of it. William and Kate moved their family out of Kensington Palace to give the kids more privacy, but it might have also given them some peace, too. While some days might feel long, William reportedly doesnt wish it any other way; hes excited to be the future King of the United Kingdom.
In recent years, the growth of the evangelical movement in Latin America has made headlines. But Colombian historian Daniel J. Salinas has been more surprised by just how long its taken for the movement to truly take hold.

Protestant missionaries first arrived in Latin America around 150 years ago in the 1870s. Today in Brazil and Guatemala, the evangelical population is at 41 percent and 31 percent respectively. These countries are outliers to the slow growth of evangelicalism experienced by most of Latin America, which has been historically Catholic.

The main factor that has challenged that power of the Catholic church hasnt been Protestantism but secularism, he said. If you talk to anybody in Latin America, they will say theyre Catholics, even though they have never gone to church. Most people follow the rituals of the predominant religion, but there is no commitment to the doctrine of that religion. They are baptized as infants, go through confirmation, and will marry at the church, but thats all.

Salinas grew up attending a Pentecostal church in Bogota, Colombia. After working as a mechanical engineer, he believed God had called him to do more with his life and served as a missionary in Uruguay, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Paraguay. Currently, Salinas teaches at a number of seminaries, including Fundacion Universitaria Seminario Biblico de Colombia in Medellin. He is the author of Taking Up the Mantle: Latin American Evangelical Theology in the 20th Century, which was released with Langham Global Library in 2017.

Salinas recently spoke with Geethanjali Tupps about his journey as a missionary in Latin America, the historic and present tensions between Protestants and Catholics in the region, and the impact of 20th century South American political history on the church.

What type of impact did Protestant missionaries have when they began arriving in the 1870s?

The early missionariesPresbyterians and Methodists who arrived during the late 1800s and early 1900sopened clinics and schools, many of which are still open and well-respected today. After the 1930s and 1940s, however, most of the missionaries only opened churches. Nothing else. The initial social interest was lost.

During this era, missionaries from the United States going to Latin America were seen primarily not as people who wanted to spread their faith but as those who were trying to make Latin Americans more accepting of the United States. In fact, you can find books written by Catholics claiming that Protestant missionaries are spies of the CIA or are workers sent by the United States to change our way of life and change our culture.

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Overall, it was a slow growth and a very difficult situation. Many of them probably went to be with the Lord without seeing the results of their efforts. Even in the 1960s and 1970s, the evangelical church was still very small.

How have Latin American governments responded to the evangelical movement?

It was not easy for the missionaries that came to Latin America at the turn of the 20th century. Liberal governments were open and very inviting to missionaries because they thought Protestantism would help develop their country. But as soon as more conservative presidents came to power, they closed their borders.

Flash forward to the early 1900s: Some countries started to recognize freedom of religion and freedom of worship. For years, many constitutions stated that the official church of the country was the Catholic church. Argentina and Colombia didnt even remove the requirement that the president be Catholic until the 1990s.

Today, very few times do you see evangelicals being invited by the governments to be part of conversations that will define policies or help the country. The only time when you see them approach evangelicals is before elections, because they are now realizing that the evangelical vote can make a difference for them.

Back when we served in Cochabamba, Bolivia, as missionaries in 1998, we looked for a place to celebrate the 40th anniversary of IFES [International Fellowship of Evangelical Students] in Latin America. One Catholic school had a beautiful meeting place we were interested in using, and they rented that place out to different groups. But when we went to ask for that school, they said no, because we are not Catholic.

What groups did the protestant movement reach most effectively?

As early as the 1900s, the educated classes and those who were wealthy or had political power had abandoned religion completely, even though the Catholic church was the one that was blessing the president and congress.

Historically, lower class people have been more receptive to the gospel. One of the reasons for this was rapid urbanization. People were leaving their secure and safe places in the countryside where they grew up to find new opportunities in the cities. But they arrived in the city without a social network, so one way for them to connect with people was to find an evangelical church, which often offered a network of neighborhood support.

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By the 1970s, evangelical churches began to grow. Leadership in these congregations was growing more local and less foreign, making it easier for people to see themselves there. Most churches didnt have any connection with any foreign agency or mission.

Around this time, many countries also suffered military dictatorships. One thing that is still unclear to me is what type of effect these governments had on Catholic and Protestant churches. While many people grew disillusioned with the Catholic church, which was an ally to many of these regimes, evangelical churches were also silent. Both Catholic and Protestant churches did not really denounce injustice with military dictatorships but just stood aside while the dictatorships power got worse.

To what extent are Latin American evangelicals finding their own identity?

In the early years when missionaries came, the Catholic church was saying, We are Latin Americans and Latin America is Catholic. If you are Latin American, you are Catholic. When the evangelicals came, they didnt realize how closely this was tied to peoples identity.

It took a long time, more than a century, for that strong connection of Catholicism and Latin Americanism to break and for someone to feel that they could be Latin American and evangelical without feeling like a foreigner.

How have women shaped Latin American theology?

In many places, women were the first ones to accept the gospel, and many of the churches were organized by women and led by women. With regard to church involvement, women have always been part of it, but in the production of theology, thats a recent development. You find a couple of names in the 1970s and then a couple of names in the 1980s. Beatriz Melano Couch (19312004) from Uruguay is the first-known Protestant woman in Latin America to earn a doctorate in theology.

Other scholars that I am familiar with are Elsa Tamez, who is from Mexico and was a professor of biblical studies at the Universidad Biblica Latinoamericana, and Nancy Bedford, currently a professor at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, who was born in Argentina.

In the Langham scholarship group, we have at least four women who have finished a PhD in theology, missiology, or different aspects of theology.

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Do you believe that the evangelical movement has addressed social needs and concerns for indigenous people in Latin America?

Thats even more recent.

Indigenous theologians have been very instrumental in how we tell the story of the conquest and how we understand the invasion of Spaniards. There hasnt been an organization getting the indigenous groups to work together. Instead, different indigenous Christians are expressing their understanding of Christian faith without much contact with other indigenous groups. This is also reinforced by geographic and linguistic factors.

What role has immigration played in terms of understanding the evangelical movement or other forms of religion?

Our countries are a melting pot of many cultures. In Colombia, for example, we received in the 1800s a lot of Lebanese and Turkish people. Some people completely blended in with the population, though you can still tell by their last names.

On the other hand, if you go to southern Chile, there are many churches that are still in German. You go to some churches in southern Argentina and the language is English. There are still some of the churches that came from France. They are in the southern corner of Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay.

Uruguay has a lot of Germans, especially Mennonites, who were initially expelled from Germany because they didnt want to get involved in military service. They went to Russia, and then the Bolshevik Revolution happened. There are a number of Mennonite colonies in Paraguay and southern Brazil and southern Chile, and a couple of big ones in Argentina.

The influence or the effect of immigration on the gospel is a complicated issue, because many Christians who came were Mennonites, who have historically been closed-off communities to the rest of the country. They moved to Latin America because they wanted protection, to teach their children as they wished, and to use their own language. Its just recently that they sort of started to become more open.

I have a friend who works in the Japanese Presbyterian Church in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Its a big, big church and ministry, and they work with the second- or third-generation Japanese that are Brazilians now, but they have an early service for the older generation thats in Japanese.

In Uruguay when I was a missionary, I lived near an Armenian family. Their church still had services that the parents attended in Armenian, while the children went to church in Spanish.

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How do you see Latin American countries taking a more active role in missions?

I was recently in Kenya for SIM Internationals Global Assembly. I met a Bolivian family from Cochabamba working in northern Kenya with Somalians, a family from Mexico City working in Kathmandu, Nepal, and another Mexican worker in India.

Brazil is a big country sending a lot of missionaries everywhere, and I know Costa Rica and Colombia are also countries that have sent a lot of missionaries. We have the same problems that many missions have, like attrition, and a lot of missionaries come back to their countries completely exhausted. But we also have stories of things that are happening, so its encouraging to see that.

[ This article is also available in espanol and Portugues. ]
The following books are selected by Fenggang Yang, a professor of sociology and the founding director of the Center on Religion and the Global East at Purdue University. He is the author of Chinese Christians in America: Conversion, Assimilation, and Adhesive Identities, Religion in China: Survival and Revival under Communist Rule, and Atlas of Religion in China: Social and Geographical Contexts.

The word Sinicization usually means assimilation into Chinese culture, particularly the language, social norms, customs, and ethnic or national identity of the Han majority in China proper.

This term can be confusing with the religious policy of the current Chinese Communist Party (CCP) general secretary, Xi Jinping, who since 2017 has made Zhongguo hua ()usually translated by Western media and academia as Sinicizationhis distinct characteristic.

But the translation is inaccurate and misleading. The primary goal of Zhongguo hua is political domestication. For example, the current policy requires Daoism, the only one of the officially recognized religions to originate in China, to go through Zhongguo hua as well, clearly showing that the policy is not about assimilation into Chinese culture but about ensuring submission to the CCP. For this reason, I suggest Chinafication as the translation of the current religious policy of Zhongguo hua.

Below are five books about the Sinicization of Christianity that I recommend. Only the first book deals with the current policy campaign of Chinafication. The other four books are indeed on Sinicizationcultural assimilation, social indigenization, and theological contextualization of Christianity in China. Many books exist on Nestorian, Catholic, or Protestant adaptations to Chinese social and cultural contexts. These four more recent ones are good readings for learning about Chinese Christianity today.

The Sinicization of Chinese Religions: From Above and Below, edited by Richard Madsen

This volume addresses questions about the current policy of the CCP toward religions, including Christianity, Confucianism, Buddhism, Islam, and new religions that China officially labels as xiejiao (evil cult). In the introduction, Richard Madsen distinguishes Sinicization from above and below, arguing that the Sinicization from below, as initiated by believers, has been happening all along, whereas the Sinicization from above, as campaigned by the state, has always had a particular political agenda of the ruling party.

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Redeemed by Fire: The Rise of Popular Christianity in Modern China, by Xi Lian

This book provides a historical account of major Chinese Christian sects, homegrown or indigenous, and spread mainly in rural areas. These groups have adopted traditional Chinese folk religious practices, and many are either heretical or borderline creedal Christianity. According to the authors assessment, these groups represent the pitfalls of experimenting with indigenization or Sinicization.

Faithful Disobedience: Writings on Church and State from a Chinese House Church Movement, edited by Hannah Nation and J. D. Tseng

This book is a compilation of sermons and writings by pastor Wang Yi and some other urban house church leaders. Wang Yi has been jailed since December 9, 2018, amid the intensified government crackdown on Christianity. As part of the house church or jiating church movement that traces its origin to Wang Mingdao (19001991), who resisted the Chinese Communist co-option of Christianity in the 1950s, urban jiating churches have flourished in China since the 1990s. Their leaders contextualize the universal Christian gospel and directly respond to the social, cultural, and political contexts. This meaning-making endeavor effectively appeals to the contemporary Chinese while being firmly anchored in Protestant theological traditions.

Chinese Theology: Text and Context, by Chloe Starr

This book analyzes the writings of key Chinese Christian thinkers in modern China, including philosophical dialogues of the late imperial era around the turn of the 20th century, theological reflections amid wars and social turmoil in the period of the Republic of China on the mainland in the 1910s to 1940s, and sermons and blogs in the 21st century. The authors reading of the Chinese texts in their original literary forms and social and cultural contexts is illuminating. The book heralds the maturation of distinctively Chinese theologies.

Studying Christianity in China: Constructions of an Emerging Discourse, by Naomi Thurston

This book makes an excellent introduction to Christian studies in Chinese academia since the 1980s. Although religious activities are restricted to certain venues by the CCP policy, Christian notions and ideas have still spread on university campuses and in the larger society. Through interviews with leading scholars in Chinas higher education institutions (universities and social science academies), Thurston documents the development of Christian philosophy and theology by Chinese academics who have contributed to the growing interest in Christianity among intellectuals in China.
When journalist Tim Alberta attended his fathers funeral, he expected people to speak words of comfort. What he didnt expect was a confrontation. And yet, just a short walk away from the casket, someone approached a grieving Alberta to critique his writing on Trumpism.

On a new episode of The Russell Moore Show, Moore welcomes Alberta, a writer for The Atlantic and the author of The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism to discuss how American culture has reached the point where people feel compelled to argue politics at all times. Alberta and Moore talk about the ways that politics have invaded the church in recent years. He and Moore talk about what fear has done to the state of evangelicalism, the rise of secularism, and the differences in conversations between white and multiethnic congregations. They consider ways that demographics affect political and religious perspectives, how pastors have engaged QAnon, and the variances in generational perspectives on American politics.

Tune in for a conversation that sheds light on Americas history and ponders what its future could be.

Resources mentioned in this episode include:

Do you have a question for Russell Moore? Send it to questions@russellmoore.com.



Click here for a trial membership at Christianity Today.



The Russell Moore Show is a production of Christianity Today

Executive Producers: Erik Petrik, Russell Moore, and Mike Cosper

Host: Russell Moore

Producer: Ashley Hales

Associate Producers: Abby Perry and McKenzie Hill

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Audio engineering by Dan Phelps

Video producer: Abby Egan

Theme Song: Dusty Delta Day by Lennon Hutton
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Home U.S. US Capitol Christmas Tree guidelines no longer ban religious ornaments, Christian group says

A Christian advocacy group is celebrating what it claims is a "religious freedom victory" after the guidelines for submitting decorations for this year's U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree do not explicitly prohibit religious items as they have in previous years.

In a statement, the Christian Defense Coalition noted that in previous years, "the guidelines for submitting ornaments to be displayed on the U.S. Capitol Christmas [tree] included the phrase; 'Decorations cannot include religious symbols.'"

The organization clarified that the disclaimer meant that ornaments, including "Nativity Displays, the Christ-Child or the Holy Family would be prohibited."

The Christian Defense Coalition, led by activist Rev. Pat Mahoney, expressed gratitude that "this year, the prohibition on religious symbols from being displayed on the U.S. Capitol Tree has been removed."

Theflyer compiled by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service inviting submissions of ornaments for placement on the 2023 Capitol Christmas Tree outlined additional requirements and restrictions for ornament submissions this year. Ornaments must be made of "natural, recyclable, and repurposed materials." Bans explicitly outlined in this year's guidelines cover "commercial logos" and "divisive or offensive" material.

The flyer warned against using "sharp materials that would pose a danger to people decorating the trees or that could cut or nick tree lighting wires." The USDA sought more than 10,000 ornaments for display on the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree and "smaller trees that will be displayed this holiday season in Washington, D.C."

The Christian Post reached out to the U.S. Department of Agriculture to confirm the coalition's assertion that religious symbols are allowed this year. The USDA directed The Christian Post to the Architect of the Capitol. A response from the Architect of the Capitol was not received by press time.

The development comes after the coalition communicated displeasure with the religious symbols ban in an email to the Architect of the Capitol and the Capitol Police Board.

An excerpt from the email to the federal agencies shared by the Christian Defense Coalition includes an assertion that "The 'People's House'... must be a place where all Americans should be afforded the right to come and peaceably celebrate and express their First Amendment Rights."

"Since the definition of Christmas is, 'the annual festival celebrating Christ's birth,' it would be deeply concerning if ornaments celebrating His birth were prohibited and censored from being on the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree by the order of a government agency," the email stated.

In a statement, Mahoney thanked the government for removing "this troubling ban on religious symbols being displayed."

"The First Amendment promises freedom 'OF' religion not freedom 'FROM' religion," Mahoney said.

"As we celebrate the powerful message and hope of Christmas this year at the U.S. Capitol, let us also celebrate the powerful message of religious freedom and the First Amendment."

This year's U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, lit on Tuesday, came from the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia. The lit tree, a 63-foot Norway Spruce, will be available for the public to view on the West Front Lawn of the U.S. Capitol every night from dusk until 11:00 p.m. through Jan. 1.
Home Politics House panel releases report on FBI's targeting of traditional Catholics

Catholic organizations are reacting to the findings of an investigation into the FBIs targeting of traditional Catholics, described as a wake up call to any and all Americans who care about basic civil liberties.

The U.S. House of Representatives Judiciary Committee and the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government released an interim staff report titled The FBIs Breach of Religious Freedom: The Weaponization of Law Enforcement Against Catholic Americans on Monday. The publication of the report comes nearly a year after the publication of an internal memo previously circulated in the FBIs Richmond Field Office identifying radical-traditionalist Catholics as a national security threat.

The document, distributed in January and published by former FBI Special Agent Kyle Seraphin in February, warned that the increasingly observed interest of racially or ethnically motivated violent extremists (RMVEs) in radical-traditionalist Catholic ideology almost certainly presents opportunities for threat mitigation through the exploration of new avenues for tripwire and source development.

The document defined radical-traditionalist Catholics as those who reject the Second Vatican Council (Vatican II) as a valid church council and express disdain for most of the popes elected since Vatican II, particularly Pope Francis and Pope John Paul II. The memo also maintained that RTCs adhere to anti-Semitic, anti-immigrant, anti-LGBT, and white supremacist ideology.

As explained in the document, the Second Vatican Council that took place from 1962-1965 was intended to help the church respond to global cultural changes in the aftermath of World War II and resulted in significant reforms to the liturgy, attitudes towards non-Christian religions, roles and responsibilities of the laity, views on religious freedom, etc.

The memo attempted to clarify that radical-traditionalist Catholics compose a small minority of overall Roman Catholic adherents and are separate and distinct from traditionalist Catholics who prefer the Traditional Latin Mass and pre-Vatican II teachings and traditions, but without the more extremist ideological beliefs and violent rhetoric.

While the FBI insisted that the document did not meet the exacting standards of the FBI, committed to investigating the basis of the document and vowed that it would never conduct investigative activities or open an investigation based solely on First Amendment protected activity, Mondays report declared: It is evident that the FBI violated the First Amendment.

Specifically, the report discovered based on whistleblower testimony that the FBI interviewed a priest and choir director of a church in Richmond: The interviews appear to have occurred in November and December 2022the same time the analysts started drafting the memorandum. This information, which the FBI has refused to disclose, confirms that the FBI directly communicated with Catholic clergy and staff about parishioners practicing their faith.

Additionally, the report indicated that a total of four FBI field offices were involved in crafting the memo, despite FBI Director Christopher Wrays testimony before Congress asserting that the effort to create the memo was limited to a single field office. While the Judiciary Committee had earlier confirmed that FBI Portland and FBI Los Angeles offices had assisted the Richmond field office with the document, the investigation reveals that the FBIs Milwaukee field office was consulted on it as well.

The report traces FBI Richmonds development of the memo back to September 2022, when the field office began to prioritize the strategic plan for the year to pursue racially or ethnically motivated violent extremists as a top priority and sought to strengthen [liaison] relationships through outreach.

The field office began investigating a single subject who identified himself as a radical traditionalist Catholic Clerical Fascist on social media as an opportunity to conduct outreach with Catholic parishes in the Richmond area of responsibility. The congressional investigation demonstrated that FBI Richmond had never used the term RTC before encountering the mans social media and did not understand its meaning.

Brian Burch, president of the advocacy organization CatholicVote, weighed in on the latest developments in the investigation into the origins of the FBI memo in a statement shared with The Christian Post. The latest revelations only raise more questions about the illegitimate targeting of Catholics by the FBI, he said.

According to Burch, Despite every effort to downplay the significance of this abuse of power, the FBI still owes Catholics and all concerned Americans answers as to who was behind the effort to spy on Catholics, how far and wide this effort went inside the FBI, whether it is ongoing and whether anyone has been held accountable. The report includes information about the internal review the FBI conducted following the publication of the memo.

The FBI also found that the employees involved in drafting, reviewing, and approving the memorandum failed to adhere to FBI standards. The employees lacked professional judgement and lack[ed] ... training and awareness of Domestic Terrorism (DT) terminology, causing them to utilize amorphous and ill-defined terms such as RTC and far-right. Furthermore, the FBIs internal review found that the Richmond Field Office lacked a formal review process.

The law enforcement agency also acknowledged that those reviewing the document used less scrutiny because it was an internal intelligence product.

While the report noted that the FBIs internal review concluded that all employees involved in drafting, reviewing, and approving the memorandum shall be admonished and their respective supervisors will engage with [the] Human Resources Division to ensure deficiencies are addressed, it raised concerns about the fact that the identities of those responsible for the memo remain unknown.

The findings of the Select Subcommittee on Weaponization of the Federal Government are a wake up call to any and all Americans who care about basic civil liberties, stated Catholic Association Fellow and radio host Ashley McGuire. The notion that traditional Catholics pose some kind of national threat is so absurd it exceeds even Hollywoods imagination. And yet the FBI, an agency designed to protect Americans and their rights, was spying on Catholics everywhere from their choir lofts to their rectories.

McGuire expressed gratitude for the work of this committee to bring this serious breach of our religious freedom to light and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
Home Politics Lawmakers oppose Biden admin. rule change targeting crisis pregnancy centers

Pro-life advocacy organizations and over three dozen federal lawmakers are criticizing the Biden administration's proposed rule changes that they fear may prevent pro-life pregnancy centers from receiving taxpayer money.

In a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Federal Register on Oct. 2, the Office of Family Assistance, Administration for Children and Families and the Department of Health and Human Services outlined proposed amendments to the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program to "strengthen the safety net and reduce administrative burden."

The program distributes grants to states, who then pass them on to organizations and agencies that work to achieve at least one of the four purposes of the initiative as laid out in the statute.

The purposes of TANF are to "(1) provide assistance to needy families so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives; (2) end the dependence of needy parents on government assistance by promoting job preparation, work and marriage; (3) prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies and establish annual numerical goals for preventing and reducing the incidence of these pregnancies; and (4) encourage the formation and maintenance of two-parent families."

The proposed changes establish a "reasonable person standard" that requires all funds distributed under the program to support expenditures that a "reasonable person would consider to be within one or more of the enumerated four purposes of the TANF program."

When analyzing efforts to "prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies and establish annual numerical goals for preventing and reducing the incidence of these pregnancies," the proposal states that "jurisdictions have sought to claim other expenditures under TANF purpose three where the connection to preventing and reducing out-of-wedlock pregnancies appears to be far more tenuous or even non-existent."

"Programs that only or primarily provide pregnancy counseling to women only after they become pregnant likely do not meet the reasonable person standard because the connection to preventing and reducing out-of-wedlock pregnancies is tenuous or non-existent, and therefore do not accomplish purpose three," the notice stated.

The proposal adds that states providing funding for these programs through "crisis pregnancy centers or pregnancy resource centers" must "show that the expenditure actually accomplishes the TANF purpose."

The rule would require states also to show "that prior expenditures by the state or another entity for the same or a substantially similar program or activity actually accomplished the TANF purpose, or that there is academic or other research indicating that the expenditure could reasonably be expected to accomplish the TANF purpose."

Critics of the rule responded in a series of statements released after the comment period closed Friday.

A group of federal lawmakers expressed concern about the proposed rule change in a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra published Friday.

Spearheaded by Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., 10 senators signed on to the letter: Sens. Steve Daines, R-Mont.; Mike Lee, R-Utah; J.D. Vance, R-Ohio; Mike Braun, R-Ind.; Roger Wicker, R-Miss.; James Lankford, R-Okla.; Josh Hawley, R-Mo.; John Kennedy, R-La.; Roger Marshall, R-Kan.; and Eric Schmitt, R-Mo.

Signatories from the U.S. House of Representatives include Reps. Chris Smith, R-N.J.; Debbie Lesko, R-Ariz.; Michael Guest, R-Miss.; Erin Houchin, R-Ind.; Mary Miller, R-Ill.; Alex Mooney, R-W.Va.; Jeff Duncan, R-S.C.; Warren Davidson, R-Ohio; Blaine Luetkemeyer, R-Mo.; John Moolenaar, R-Mich.; Larry Buchson, R-Ind.; Jim Baird, R-Ind.; Jim Banks, R-Ind.; Clay Higgins, R-La.; Keith Self, R-Texas; Garret Graves, R-La.; Robert Aderholt, R-Ala.; and Eric Burlison, R-Mo.

Urging the administration to "withdraw it immediately," the coalition of 11 U.S. Senators and 18 members of the House warned that the proposal "undermines the TANF program by targeting pregnancy centers and alternatives to abortion programs and threatening to strip them of tens of millions of dollars of funding, depriving pregnant women in need of compassionate assistance for themselves and their unborn babies."

The lawmakers expressed concern that "the Proposed Rule focuses specifically on States that direct TANF funds to pregnancy centers and alternatives to abortion programs." They maintained that pro-life pregnancy centers "provide services that fulfill all four purposes of TANF" and suggested that "HHS is targeting pregnancy centers for their pro-life mission rather than for any kind of misuse of Federal funds."

"HHS' singling out of pregnancy centers for performing post-conception pregnancy counseling also reveals a glaring hypocrisy, making the Proposed Rule arbitrary and capricious. Planned Parenthood affiliates reported expending $1.04 million in TANF funds in 2018," they wrote. "Planned Parenthood performs abortions, for which the expenditure of TANF funds is prohibited, yet curiously, HHS does not raise concerns, or demand special justification, for States that have provided TANF funds to Planned Parenthood affiliates."

Katie Daniel, the state police director for the national pro-life grassroots group Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, criticized what she calls "Biden's twisted attempt to hinder pregnancy centers' ability to serve women in need."

In a public comment, the Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America and the research organization Charlotte Lozier Institute argued that the proposed rule is "not viewpoint neutral."

"Specifically, it implies that Pregnancy Resource Centers are ineligible for TANF funding," the public comment reads. "What is worse, the rule does not make the same

implication about any other entity or organization. By definition and reputation, Pregnancy Resource Centers operate based on a pro-life point of view. Courts have found that 'viewpoint discrimination' is an egregious form of content discrimination."

Human Coalition, which operates a network of pro-life pregnancy centers, slammed the proposed changes to the TANF program in a statement shared with The Christian Post.

"By attempting to remove pregnancy centers from funding, this discriminatory proposal callously blocks pregnant women in need from resources when they need it most," said Human Coalition National Director of Public Policy Chelsey Youman.

"The administration completely disregards the fact that these centers meet program goals by providing aid to needy families, promoting job preparation and marriage, and encouraging two-parent families," Youman added. "Pregnancy centers across the country have created a giant safety net of care and assistance for women in need, and this life-affirming care and support is absolutely a worthy use of our tax dollars."

"Instead, the Biden administration is cutting this lifeline in the name of abortion. Stripping funding from these centers would hurt vulnerable women  especially low-income women and women of color  and undermine healthy families."
Home Politics Mike Johnson says Christians face a 'battle between worldviews': 'Struggle for the future'

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., warned Tuesday night that the United States is engaged in a battle of worldviews and called on Christians to bring the truth about the countrys foundational principles to the younger generation.

A group of interfaith elected officials and supporters of the National Association of Christian Lawmakers attended the organizations annual meeting and awards gala at the Museum of the Bible Tuesday night.

The event, titled Save the Nation, highlighted various issues at the center of many debates today, including abortion, sexuality, gender and restoring faith in America.

Johnson, a Baptist elected House speaker earlier this year, was presented with the NACL American Patriot Award for Christian Honor and Courage and delivered the keynote address.

During his speech, Johnson stated that the U.S. is facing the "greatest collection of challenges" since World War II and the Civil War due to competing worldviews held by the political left and right. Despite these challenges, Johnson urged attendees to continue trusting in God.

Our hope is in the Lord; our hope and our trust is in God, the House speaker said. And that is our national motto, and it's more than a bumper sticker slogan. It is who we are as a nation. It's what makes us different; it's what sets us apart.

The 51-year-old lawmaker cited the British philosopher G.K. Chesterton, who stated in an account of his 1921 visit to America that it is the only nation in the world that is founded on a creed. Johnson stated this creed is that all men are created equal, endowed by God with inalienable rights, among them the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, as stated in The Declaration of Independence.

We are the only nation in the world that was founded upon that premise, Johnson said, emphasizing that America, at its founding, recognized that rights come from God, not the government. Those rights, he said, are in our blood to defend.

And when other men seem to take our rights away from us, we have the obligation to stand and defend them, he continued. That was the premise of our country. And what we're engaged in right now is a battle between worldviews. It's a great struggle for the future of the republic.

Johnson urged Christian conservatives to speak with "clarity" and "conviction" now more than ever, warning that the next generation has no frame of reference to the great foundational truths.

Johnson urged political leaders on the right to develop the ability to articulate the differences between a conservative worldview and a progressive one. He listed several principles of conservatism, including individual freedom, the rule of law and other subcategories, such as human dignity. But he noted that the list might look different for some of his colleagues.

The thing is, we have to agree upon what those points are and begin to talk about it in simpler terms, he said, urging conservatives to be winsome warriors.

We don't want to divide; we want to unify, Johnson continued. We want to bring people into the truth and into the light and to believe in America and that our best days are ahead because they are if we'll turn to God.

The NACL was founded in 2019 by former Arkansas state Sen. Jason Rapert, a Republican. It is said to be the first formal national association of Christian lawmakers in U.S. history. It seeks to unite Christian lawmakers to support biblical principles.

Other award recipients at the NACL event include husband and wife Glenn and Jenny Story, co-founders and executives of the Christian conservative wireless provider Patriot Mobile, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary. The organization gives a percentage of its proceeds to organizations that support the First Amendment, Second Amendment, sanctity of life, military, veterans and first responders.

The pair received the NACL Salt and Light Award For Christian Leadership and were honored for making a "huge difference in corporate America."

"This company is God's company," Jenny Story said. "Every morning, we wake up, and we know we are His stewards. We have been truly blessed. ... I really hope that other Christian leaders will take the stand and join with us. We see that happening. It is very inspirational what has been going on in this country."

Andrew Wommack, founder of Wommack Ministries and Colorados Charis Bible College, received the George Washington Lifetime Christian Leadership Award.
Home Education Teacher hid LGBT club from parents, violated district policies

An Illinois teacher reportedly shared in an email thread that she concealed an LGBT club from parents by calling it "Bubbles" with the kids, which the superintendent of the school district clarified is a violation of the district's policies.

The anonymous teacher was employed by Red Bud High School in August 2022 when she discussed how to hide information about the Gender & Sexualities Alliance group with teachers from other school districts.

In October, the parental rights advocacy group Parents Defending Education shared copies of the emails obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request. The group clarified that the students involved were as young as sixth grade.

According to one email thread, the Red Bud teacher explained that the club uses Google Classroom, but they do not invite the parents.

"In the beginning, we named it something that did not identify the group, but the kids knew what it was," the teacher wrote in the email. "Bubbles is what they came up with."

Another teacher from the Waterloo School District wrote in another email to GSA advisors that teachers are required to use Google Classroom, and some kids are worried about their parents having access. She asked for recommendations about platforms to use for club communication.

A teacher with "she/her" pronouns at Dorris Intermediate School in the Collinsville Community Unity School District 10 explained that her school uses ClassTag.

"And load the kids' guardian' with their e-mail or cell number. It is a website/app platform that messages and texts too," the teacher added.

Red Bud Community Unit School District 132 Superintendent Jonathan Tallman told CP that keeping information from parents is "absolutely wrong," adding that the district would not tolerate such actions.

The superintendent provided CP with a copy of an email he sent to parents and staff regarding the incident involving the teacher.

In the email, the superintendent clarified that no current staff members were involved and that the teacher who attempted to hide the LGBT club from parents is no longer with the district. The club is no longer active.

"Our Board of Education takes this very seriously and directed me to make clear that all District employees and student club sponsors are not authorized to alter or change the name of student groups for any purpose," Tallman wrote in the email.

"Further, we will not tolerate any employee or non-employee intentionally keeping information from parents," he added. "Every parent has the absolute right to know what groups and clubs their child is participating in. The Administration or Board of Education will not tolerate any deliberate action to hide or keep such information from parents."

Tallman clarified in the email to parents and staff that students operate the clubs on campus and are not controlled by the district or its employees. Students must identify an adult sponsor for a club, who then supervises their activities without compensation.

"Under federal law, the Board of Education is not permitted to deny a student club from organizing simply because the Board does or does not agree with the content/nature of the student club," the superintendent wrote.

"For example, the Board cannot deny a student-organized Fellowship of Christian Athletes club simply because the club is religious in nature," he continued. "This same rule applies to students forming a Gay-Straight Alliance club."

Tallman directed CP to the school district's policies, including the sections about locker room usage and parental rights. According to the policy, students must use the bathroom that aligns with their sex instead of their gender identity.

"The District does not wish to infringe on any student's fundamental right to bodily privacy from persons of the opposite sex," the policy states.

Regarding parental rights, the district cites the 14th Amendment as the reason for entrusting parents with the right to direct the upbringing and education of their children, as well as the Illinois School Code.

In a statement to The Christian Post, a spokesperson for the Collinsville Community Unit School District 10 reiterated comments that Superintendent Mark B. Skertich provided to other media outlets.

According to Skertich, the teacher was talking about an education tool frequently used by educators, and he also claimed that Dorris Intermediate School does not have a GSA club.

The Waterloo School District didn't respond to The Christian Post's request for comment by press time.

Parental rights has become an ongoing discussion in school districts nationwide. Many schools have instituted policies requiring districts to inform parents if their child expresses a desire to identify as the opposite sex. More than 1,000 school districts in the United States have policies requiring staff to keep students' gender identities secret from parents if the students ask them to do so, according to a report this year from Parents Defending Education.

While critics argue that trans-identifying students may not want their parents to know about their transition, others assert that a parent has the right to know about changes to their child's physical and mental well-being.
Home Books Pastor John Burke says as the world gets worse, God is revealing himself more

As the world gets darker, God is revealing Himself more to people from all nations, says Pastor John Burke.

The founding pastor of Gateway Church in Austin, Texas, and New York Times bestselling author shares the accounts of near-death experiences in his new book, Imagine the God of Heaven: Near-Death Experiences, Gods Revelation, and the Love Youve Always Wanted.

The new book is similar to his previous works but delves further into people's lives and their relationship with God following their near-death experiences.

Burke, who once identified as agnostic, was an engineer when he first delved into researching near-death experiences as his father was dying of cancer a few decades ago. He was engrossed in his research about near-death experiences, particularly being drawn to the scientific medical evidence backing up people's accounts. The research brought him to God, and he eventually left his career in engineering to become a pastor.

Burke spent 35 years researching over 1,000 near-death experiences before writing his bestselling book, Imagine Heaven.

If you just look at a theology of the afterlife revealed in the Scriptures, what these people are commonly overlapping is the same; its illustrating that in an incredible way. And so, I wrote Imagine Heaven, Burke told The Christian Post. "If you've read Imagine Heaven, they talk about these amazing journeys into this beautiful place, not unlike Earth  mountains, trees and flowers  but experienced in new dimensions of time and space, and so much more," he continued.

They talk about these great reunions with people who have passed on. We're not wispy, ethereal; we're more real and more ourselves than we've ever been. What they would commonly say, [is that despite the wonders around them], when they were in the presence of God, they said, I didn't care about any of that, nothing compared to just looking into His eyes or just being in His presence.

Featuring 70 interviews, the author describes Imagine the God of Heaven as a comprehensive book about God, a love story shown throughout history revealed in Scripture and in people's near-death experiences.

Burke said his goal was to share God's love, the love they've always wanted.

What blew me away is the people that God brought to me this time in writing Imagine the God of Heaven are from every continent, every background imaginable. What I started to realize as I was researching and thinking about the book is that He wants everybody to know He is the God of all nations. He created every person of every race, color, every nation to be His child, and that His love for each one of us is so unique, Burke said.

"In our crazy world, what feels like evil on the rise, I think God is giving greater testimony globally to His reality and His great love for all people, he told CP.

What he traced throughout the book is God has created us all for a love relationship, and that's true in every nation.

"I've got stories of people who clinically died, their heart stops beating, their brainwaves have ceased, medical proof of it from all over the world and yet, the God they are consistently describing, what I'm showing is this is the God who has been revealing Himself throughout history, Burke maintained.

God is not all of a sudden showing up in our age of medical resuscitation. ... These are just testimonies affirming what He's been revealing to the world all along, Burke insisted.

"I believe He is doing this because He wants every person of every nation to know that He's made a way for everyone to be forgiven and made right with Him, as a gift, the pastor concluded.

Imagine the God of Heaven is now available everywhere books are sold. For more information, visit the website.
Home Church & Ministries Episcopal Church leader Michael Curry suffers brain bleed, undergoes surgery

Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Michael Curry recently suffered a fall that resulted in a brain bleed, requiring him to undergo surgery in the latest health scare for the outgoing denominational leader.

The Episcopal Church Office of Public Affairs released a brief statement on Monday explaining that Curry suffered a fall in New York and, from there, a subdural hematoma.

He underwent surgery, which was successful, and he will continue his recovery in the hospital in Raleigh, stated the office. Please pray for Bishop Curry, his family, and his medical team. Updates will be provided as they become available.

The brain bleed and surgery came only a couple of months after the Episcopal Church leader had to undergo surgery to remove his right adrenal gland and an attached mass, which had caused multiple incidents of internal bleeding.

In October, Curry was released from the hospital following the adrenal gland surgery that was performed in September, with him taking on a reduced schedule and undergoing physical therapy.

The medical emergencies and two subsequent surgeries have come during the scheduled final year of Currys term as presiding bishop of the progressive mainline Protestant denomination.

Curry was installed as presiding bishop in November 2015, becoming the first African American to hold the leadership position in the Episcopal Churchs 220-plus year history.

At his 2015 consecration service, which was held at the Washington National Cathedral in the District of Columbia, Curry declared that "God is not finished with the denomination.

"What God has done in the past, God can do again. God, Who parted Red Seas, can do it all over again. The God Who raised the dead to life can do it all over again," Curry stated at the time.

Curry gained international attention when he preached at the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in May 2018, likely making it one of the most-watched sermons in history.

We were made by a power of love, Curry said in his sermon. Our lives were meant and are meant to be lived in that love. That's why we are here. Ultimately the source of love is God Himself. The source of all of our lives.

Jesus did not get an honorary doctorate for dying. He wasn't getting anything out of it. He gave up his life; He sacrificed His life for the good of others, for the well-being of the world, for us. That's what love is.
Home World Hamas may be holding female hostages to keep them from talking, US official says

A U.S. government official has speculated that Hamas did not release all of its female hostages because it does not want them to share stories of the horrors they endured while in captivity.

State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller spoke with reporters Monday about Israel's renewed military campaign to eradicate Hamas and how its forces are taking care to avoid civilian casualties.

Amid reports that Hamas used rape as a weapon of war against Israeli women and girls, a reporter asked Miller about the Israeli government's investigation into reports of sexual violence against women during Hamas' terrorist attack.

Miller was questioned about why earlier in the press conference, he condemned the "atrocities" but didn't use the word "rape" or "sexual violence" in his answer about reports of sexual assault. He said that is "only because we haven't made an independent assessment of our own," but the administration has "seen the reports that Hamas has committed sexual violence, they have committed rape."

While the spokesperson replied that the Biden administration was briefed on the details, Miller said he could not speak on the information the Israeli government had gathered.

"We don't have people on the ground conducting such assessments," he said. "But we have seen Hamas commit atrocities both on October 7th and since October 7th, and we obviously condemn those atrocities and support Israel's actions to hold Hamas accountable for them."

Miller also asserted that the administration has no reason to doubt the validity of the reports, noting that Hamas killed innocent civilians and is still holding multiple women hostage.

"The fact that they continue to hold women hostages, the fact that they continue to hold children hostages, just the fact that it seems one of the reasons they don't want to turn women over they've been holding hostage, and the reason this pause fell apart, is they don't want those women to be able to talk about what happened to them during their time in custody," Miller stated.

"There is very little that I would put beyond Hamas when it comes to its treatment of civilians, and particularly its treatment of women," he added.

Israel's negotiations with Hamas to extend a ceasefire ended last Friday after the terror group refused to release the remaining Israeli women it's holding hostage, offering to set elderly men free instead. Israeli officials believe that Hamas is still holding at least 18 women captive, according to a Tuesday Axios report.

Hamas carried out a surprise attack in southern Israel on Oct. 7, slaughtering 1,200 people, injuring thousands of others, and seizing around 240 civilians as hostages. As the reporter noted in a question to Miller, the Israeli government has collected more than 1,500 testimonies from people who witnessed Hamas raping and sexually assaulting women on that day.

One eyewitness, Yoni Saadon, 39, described to The Sunday Times how he saw around 10 Hamas fighters beating and raping a woman. Saadon was an attendee at the Supernova Music Festival, where Hamas massacred over 300 people and took others captive.

Saadon said that the woman whose rape he witnessed had the "face of an angel," and she screamed at the terrorists to just kill her. The survivor, who is a father of four, said that the woman could have been one of his daughters.

The man had been hiding under the festival stage when he witnessed Hamas members murder a young woman. He pulled her body over to him and smeared her blood on his face to make it appear to the terrorists that he was already dead.

"I will never forget her face. Every night I wake to it and apologize to her, saying, 'I'm sorry,'" he said.

Later, when Saadon was hiding in the bushes, he saw two Hamas fighters sexually assaulting a woman they had grabbed near a car. The woman kept fighting them as they tried to remove her clothes, and, according to Saadon, one of the terrorists eventually beheaded her with a shovel.

Shari, a Rabbinate corps member of the Israel Defense Forces responsible for preparing bodies for burial, told The Daily Mail in October about the evidence of Hamas' mass rape of women, children and the elderly. Many of the corpses, according to Shari, had their pelvises broken, something that she noted is very difficult to do.
Home World 'Christmas isn't racist': Trudeau, Canadian lawmakers respond to paper calling Christian holidays 'systemic discrimination'

Lawmakers in Canada are denouncing a recent report by a Canadian government human rights panel that described Christmas and Easter holidays as examples of systemic religious discrimination.

In a motion unanimously adopted Nov. 30, the House of Commons, the lower chamber of the Canadian Parliament, voted in favor of condemning a paper from the Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC) that cited Christianitys two biggest holy days as examples of present-day systemic religious discrimination because they are statutory holidays in Canada.

The motion included language which called on all the House to denounce all attempts to polarize events that have been part of Quebec and Canadian heritage for generations and invite all Quebecers and Canadians to unite as we approach the Christmas season, accordingto Canadas Global News.

Lawmakers adopted the motion just one day after a tense exchange between Bloc Quebecois House Leader Alain Therrien, who introduced the motion, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

"I wonder whether Santa Claus is racist? I wonder whether snow has become racist, Mr. Speaker? According to the prime minister, is Christmas racist?"



Leader of the Bloc Quebecois questions PM Trudeau about a report by the Canadian Human Rights Commission. pic.twitter.com/46tUaHLbnQ  True North (@TrueNorthCentre) November 29, 2023

I wonder whether Santa Claus is racist? I wonder whether snow has become racist, Mr. Speaker? According to the prime minister, is Christmas racist?" Therrien asked.

Im very pleased to stand up and try to answer a totally ridiculous question, the prime minister replied. Obviously, Christmas is not racist.

This is a country of diversity. A country that celebrates not just our personal individual beliefs, but we share and celebrate the events of our neighbors, too. That's what makes this country so rich. We share our celebrations, it makes us a more rich and diverse country and we will keep doing that. The Bloc is always looking for ridiculous ways to pick fights, I cant get over it.

Publishedon Oct. 23, the CHRC paper warned that Canadian non-Christians might be adversely impacted because Christmas and Easter are the only two religious statutory holidays in Canada.

According to the Discussion Paper on Religious Intolerance paper, discrimination against religious minorities in Canada is grounded in Canadas history of colonialism, which, the paper states, finds its most obvious example in Canadian statutory holidays related to Christianity.

As a result, non-Christians may need to request special accommodations to observe their holy days and other times of the year when their religion requires them to abstain from work, the paper added.

The report also lists what it describes as everyday manifestations of religious tolerance, including microaggressions that can range from the verbal to the behavioral. Some examples listed in the report include scheduling team meetings on Jewish or Muslim holy days and assuming that a Muslim person is new to Canada.

In order to combat religious intolerance, the paper recommends Canadians familiarize themselves with diverse religious days or cultural days of significance that go beyond those linked to statutory holidays, such as Christmas or Easter.
Home Opinion Babies for sale? A recent announcement sparks surrogacy debate among conservatives

On Friday, December 1, Guy Benson posted a picture of a baby with the caption, some personal news.

For those who dont know, Benson is considered by many on the American Right to be a conservative political commentator. His X (formerly Twitter) bio lists affiliations like Fox News and Town Hall.

But Benson is also an unrepentant homosexual currently married to another man, Adam Wise.

You shouldnt need me to tell you that Benson and Wise are incapable of having children themselves  the laws of nature and natures God, the One True Creator God of the universe, stand against them in such an endeavor.

This means that this baby, who will now grow up in a home with two dads, was secured through surrogacy, a modern practice that involves entering into a business contract for the explicit purpose of purchasing a human child through a rent-a-womb arrangement.

The initial reactions to Bensons post about his personal news of now being a father brought out a veritable whos who list of American political conservatives congratulating him for this  achievement. Notable names include Jonah Goldberg, Dana Perino, Meghan McCain, and more.

After the initial round of applause, a backlash began. Many American conservatives, particularly Christian conservatives, saw nothing to celebrate. Instead, they (rightly) see someone who claims the label of conservative being digitally high-fived for whats become, in essence, a socially acceptable version of human trafficking (the purchase of a child) and intentionally depriving that child of its natural right to be raised by its biological mother and father.

Allie Beth Stuckey posted on X that the idea that two dads can replace a mom, or that two moms can replace a dad, is just as nonsensical as saying trans women are women. The identical illogic behind both is that men and women are arbitrary and interchangeable, that their biology tells us nothing important about how society should function.

Sharing her comments, Ryan Helfenbein, executive director of the Standing for Freedom Center, added, One of the most important things that needs to be said in todays insane culture. Children need both a mother and a father.

This entire debate, which has raged on social media for over three days now, raises important questions for conservative Christians. What is the Christian view of surrogacy in general? What should our response be when we see homosexual couples purchasing babies with the explicit intent of denying them both a mother and father? How should political conservatives deal with the painfully evident problem that some (many) within the conservative movement are actively subverting the most fundamental conservative building block of society itself  the natural family?

Katy Faust, president of the child advocacy group Them Before Us and author of the book Them Before Us: Why We Need a Global Childrens Rights Movement, published an excellent response, entitled The Conservative, Pro-Life Case Against Surrogacy. In it, she provides what she calls a one-stop shop on how to respond the next time a gay  or straight  conservative you love announces that he has created a motherless child.

I would commend the entire article. But her thesis, in particular, gets right to the point:

A conservative position rejects surrogacy based on the self-evident, natural rights of the child, his right to life, to his mother and father, to be born free and not bought and sold. The child is the voiceless party in the arrangement who would never consent to the intentional loss of his or her mother.

Faust approaches the topic from a biological, common-sense, and natural law perspective. But here are three specifically Christian principles that apply to this issue.

The inherent dignity of human life

The Bible upholds the inherent dignity and value of every human life. It posits that every human being, from conception to natural death, should be treated with respect and dignity. This is grounded in Genesis 1:27-28:

So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it.

Surrogacy, on the other hand, by its very nature, commodifies human life. It turns image bearers into designer products, reducing a child made in the image of God to an artifact that can be bought and sold at the discretion of those who have the power and means to do so. This is fundamentally at odds with a Christian understanding of human dignity.

Gods good design for the reproduction of His image bearers in His world is through the natural process of pregnancy within the committed, monogamous union of one man and one woman we know as marriage. Surrogacy ignores all of that and instead offers to mankind a chance to play God over human life.

The rights of the child

One argument often put forth in favor of surrogacy is that Consenting adults should be able to do whatever they want. However, this argument fails to consider the rights of the child. In surrogacy arrangements, the child cannot give consent. The child is brought into existence through a contractual agreement and is then handed over to the purchasers. This aspect alone  the premeditated and technologically facilitated production and sale of a baby is a clear violation of the childs rights before both God and man.

Moreover, true conservatives and Christians recognize that a child has a natural right to both a mother and a father. Surrogacy arrangements, and especially those pursued by homosexual couples, pervert the natural order, depriving the child of the right to know and be raised by his or her biological parents  that is, his or her mother and father.

Men and women, mothers and fathers, are not interchangeable. They never have been and they never will be. Therefore, Christians should rightly see surrogacy for homosexual couples as another example of an unbiblical attack on the binary nature of human biology and sexuality.

Adoption is biblical, surrogacy isnt

Its important to contrast surrogacy with adoption. Adoption is a practice that has existed for thousands of years and is designed to place children in loving homes due to circumstances beyond their control. It is a response to a tragedy and seeks to provide the best possible outcome for the child.

While there are real issues in the modern adoption system, adopting children who have been orphaned by tragic and unforeseen circumstances can serve as a wonderful reflection of the Gospel. Galatians 4:4-5 says, When the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.

In contrast, surrogacy, again, involves the intentional act of creating a baby to sell to someone else. It is not a response to a tragedy but rather a deliberate act that commodifies human life. There is no picture of the Gospel to be found anywhere in this act.

Conclusion

From a biblically-informed Christian perspective, surrogacy raises significant ethical and moral concerns. It commodifies human life, violates the rights of the child, and disrupts the natural order of parenthood. As such, Christians should rightly understand surrogacy as fundamentally immoral, unethical, and sinful.

And from a conservative perspective, the truth is that there is nothing conservative whatsoever about participating in or celebrating the ongoing destruction and perversion of the natural family. As Daniel Strand, assistant professor of ethics at the Air War College and ethics chair of Air University, so pointedly put it: A conservatism that gives up on the natural family is a deeply compromised conservatism.

Christians should reject compromised and Christ-less conservatism  and demand the political movement that we are most closely associated with make a return to Christ-centered foundations. Remember, when it comes to the moral order of society, its either Christ or chaos  even on the Right.

Originally published at the Standing for Freedom Center.
In 2022 Iran ordered 50 Su-35 fighters from Russia. This aircraft sells for about $80 million each. This Su-35 customer was unexpected because Iran has been unable to buy new jet fighters for decades because of economic sanctions. Any nation violating these sanctions risked having those sanctions imposed on them. When Russia was hit with heavy sanctions for invading Ukraine in 2022, Iran saw an opportunity and offered Russia weapons and other useful items if Russia paid for those items by providing Iran with the most modern Russian fighter; the Su-35. Later in 2022 Iran announced that the Su-35 barter deal was agreed to and that Iran would receive at least 65 Su-35s. Russia has only have about a hundred Su-35s in their air force and production has been halted by the sanctions. Too many key Su-35 components come from Western suppliers. Russia was slow to ship most of its own Su-35s to Iran, especially now that Russia knows that the Iranian UAVs supplied were not as effective as expected.

Russia is also still building Su-35s for Egypt. Apparently less than a third of the 26 Su-35s Egypt ordered in 2018 were delivered by 2022. Then there is the problem that Egypt and Iran are enemies. Egypt belongs to an anti-Iran coalition which includes Israel and Saudi Arabia. This is a problem in other ways. Israel and Iran are at war with each other in Syria and Iran is losing. Israeli F-35I fighters have encountered Russian Su-35s in Syria and have a good idea of what the Su-35 can and cannot do. One thing the Su-35 cannot do is defeat the F-35I. The F-35I can detect the Su-35 first and shoot it down with missiles. This is not a major concern for Iran, which wants the Su-35 so that it can more effectively threaten its Arab neighbors.

In Ukraine, Su-35s destroyed seven older Russian fighters used by the Ukrainian air force, along with a defenseless Ukrainian naval reconnaissance aircraft. Until the arrival of Western air defense systems, especially Patriot, Russian Su-35s had air superiority over Ukraine. There were still Su-35 losses, one of them to Ukrainian ground fire and another to a Russian S-300 anti-aircraft missile with a faulty IFF (Identify Friend or Foe) system that failed to recognize a Su-35 as friendly.

Su-35 sales have been difficult because many eager customers depend on other countries to help pay for the aircraft. Egypt bought Su-35s only because Saudi Arabia provided the money. China could pay hard currency for the 24 of them it ordered in 2015 and received all of them by 2018. Indonesia bought eleven in 2017 and began receiving them in 2019. The sale of Su-35s to China was special. Because of Chinas frequent illegal copying of Russian technology, this was expected to be the last Russian warplane exported to China.

Currently Russia has over a hundred Su-35s in service and nearly as many on order. Russia received its first Su-35s in 2013 and four were sent to Syria in early 2016 for some combat experience. These were apparently successful, especially when delivering Russian built smart bombs. Russia then increased its own orders from 50 to over a hundred.

On paper the Su-35 is impressive. It is a 34-ton fighter that is more maneuverable than the original, 33 ton, Su-27 it is based on, and has much better electronics. It can cruise at above the speed of sound. It also costs nearly twice as much as the Su-27. That would be some $80 million for a barebones model, about what a top-of-the-line F-16 costs. Export models of the Su-35 go for about $100 million. The Su-27 was originally developed to match the F-15, which is larger than the single engine F-16. The larger size of the Su-27/30/35 allows designers to do a lot more with it in terms of modifications and enhancements.

The Su-35 has some stealth capabilities, in that it is less detectable to most fighter aircraft radars. Russia claims the Su-35 has a useful life of 6,000 flight hours with engines good for 4,000 hours. That is longer than earlier Su-27/30 aircraft. Russia promises world-class avionics, plus a very pilot-friendly cockpit. The use of many thrusters along with fly-by-wire means the Su-35 is even more maneuverable than Su-30s, which were Su-27s tweaked to be extremely agile. The Su-35 was in development for two decades before it was declared ready for production in 2005. Even then there were problems with the new engines that gave it its superior performance. Russia says the engine problems are solved, but only time will tell if that is true.

The Su-35 is not meant to be a direct rival for the F-22 because the Russian aircraft is not nearly as stealthy. The Su-35 carries a 30mm autocannon with 150 30mm shells on board. Su-35s can carry up to eight tons of munitions, hanging from 12 hard points. This reduces stealthiness, which the F-22 and F-35 get around by using an internal bay for bombs and missiles. But if the maneuverability and advanced electronics of the Su-35 live up to the promises, the aircraft would be more than a match for every fighter out there except the F-22 and possibly the F-35 and late model F-16s. Since each Su-35 sold for $100 million or less there were supposed to be a lot of buyers. There werent and Russia is eager to change that if only to improve the reputation of the Su-35. This is one reason for the large number sold to Iran. Russia also sold Iran Yak-130 jet trainer aircraft that are used to train pilots to handle aircraft like the Su-35. Iran also received some Mi-28 attack helicopters which Iran can use against poorly armed but troublesome rebels and separatists.

The Egyptian sale is more about diplomacy than air power. This purchase, financed by Saudi Arabia, increases diplomatic relations between Russia and the Middle Eastern Arab states. The two most important ones are Egypt and Saudi Arabia. The Egyptian air force has nearly 400 combat aircraft in service plus a lot of older Russian fighters in storage. Most of the active combat aircraft are Western, including 210 F-16s, 40 Alpha Jets, 90 Mirages and 17 Rafales. There are 15 MiG-29s in service and another 32 on the way. Once all the MiG-29s and Su-35s are in service, Egypt will have 106 modern Russian fighters, which account for about 25 percent of its fighter force. Because of the Iran deal, the 50-plane SU-35 deal will probably be the last for Russia because Egypt considers Iran an enemy while Russia and Iran are now allies.
Home Opinion Who are the innocent Palestinians?

A recent poll by the Arab World for Research and Development (AWRAD) painted a vivid picture of who the innocent Palestinian Arabs are. The current situation begs the question as to whether anyone in the world actually cares about the well being of Palestinian Arabs, or if this is just a cover for antisemites to find an excuse to blame Israel again and again.

A wartime poll was conducted between October 31 and November 7, 2023, among 668 people in the Palestinian Authority including Gaza and the West Bank (Judea and Samaria).

So, who are the innocent Palestinian Arabs?

The poll shows that Palestinian Arabs roundly support terror against Israel, reject peace with Israel, and deny Israels very right to exist.

To its credit, ARWAD actually published these results. They did so with no shame. But they should be ashamed, for their society and everything it says about the century-long dehumanization of Jews and delegitimization of Israel. Maybe it depicts their desire to portray this reality in the hope that there will be change. However, as deep as the hostility to Israel is, its hard to imagine even a handful of righteous people looking to change their society rather than celebrate its deeply rooted evil.

The AWRAD poll depicts widespread hostility, hatred, and legitimization of terror. It did not start just because of the war, and certainly not as a response to the horrific October 7 massacre against Israel. It shows that innocent Palestinian Arabs celebrate it. These results are the product of hateful incitement against Israel from long before the advent of the Palestinian Authority in the 1990s.

The results must be a wake-up call for Israel, the broader world, and anyone in the international community who truly seeks peace in the Middle East. It underscores that the worn-out paradigms of the past are invalid and the world needs to look through the prism of helping to resolve a problem based on reality, not how people want to think the world ought to be.

The polls overall results indicate that an overwhelming percentage of Palestinian Arabs:

Overwhelmingly support the October 7 massacre against Israel (75%).

Support the genocidal creation of a Palestinian state from the river to the sea (74.7%).

Seek the restoration of historical Palestine as a final resolution (71.1%) (even though there was never an independent entity under Arab authority known as Palestine to restore).

Reject coexistence with Israel (85.9%).

As if in a high school popularity contest for homecoming king and queen among competing terrorist organizations, Palestinian Arabs:

Believe that Hamas plays a somewhat to very positive role (76%).

Believe that Palestinian Islamic Jihad plays a somewhat to very positive role (84%).

Believe that Fatahs (the PLO) terror wing, the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade, plays a somewhat to very positive role (79.8%).

Believe that Hamas armed wing, the Al-Kassam Brigades, plays a somewhat to very positive function (88.6%).

Innocent Palestinian Arabs also harbor unsurprisingly antisemitic, and anti-Western views, and believe that they are victims and not the perpetrators:

91.5% think that support for Israel is the result of the influence of the Israeli lobby.

85.5% think that support for Israel is the result of hatred of Arabs.

79.5% agreed with the belief that this support is the result of hatred of Muslims and Islam.

Biting the hands that feed them, which have provided untold millions to fund their state, innocent Palestinian Arabs:

See the U.S. role as unfavorable (98.2%).

See the UK role as unfavorable (96.7%).

See the EU role as unfavorable (92.6%).

But innocent Palestinian Arabs disdain is not just for the Western hands that feed them. Within the Arab world, innocent Palestinian Arabs:

See the United Arab Emirates playing the most negative role (96%).

See Saudi Arabia playing the second most negative role (95.5%).

See Egypt playing the third most negative role (84.6%).

See Jordan playing the fourth negative role (75.6%).

Its noteworthy that these countries have either made peace with Israel or were close to that before October 7. No doubt innocent Palestinian Arabs must hold in high esteem countries that are rocks of stability and democracy in advocating for their well-being such as Yemen, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Iran.

Looking locally at their own society, Palestinian Arabs want more authority given to the most hardline terrorists, in a population where all their leaders come from terrorist organizations. Palestinian Arabs believe:

The Palestinian Authority plays a negative role (87.3%).

Fatah (the PLO) plays a positive role. (23.2%).

Hamas should continue to play a role in the Palestinian government (85.8%).

Support a national unity government of Fatah (the PLO) and Hamas. (72.2%).

The war will end with a Palestinian victory that achieves the liberation of Gaza from the Israeli invasion (74.3%).

Palestinian Arabs positive perception of Hamas remains high despite its role in the October 7 massacre and despite its use of the local population as human shield.

To be clear, I dont want to see the death or suffering of any actual innocent Palestinian Arabs. Nor do the vast majority of Israelis. The long-held truism remains: If they were to lay down their weapons today, they could have peace tomorrow. If we were to lay down our weapons, they would slaughter us. October 7 was just one confirmation of this.

Israelis desperately want peace. But when we look at statistics like these among innocent Palestinian Arabs, it makes us question whether there are any actual peace partners on the other side. Its not only impossible under Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Gaza. In the Palestinian Authority-controlled West Bank, the percentage of people who hold negative and genocidal views of Israel is greater. According to the AWRAD poll, innocent Palestinian Arabs in the West Bank support the massacre against Israel at a far greater rate (83.1%) than those in Gaza (63.6%).

The AWRAD poll shows that innocent Palestinians are delusional and hold self-defeating views. It raises the legitimate question as to whether Israel has, or ever will have, peace partners.
Home Opinion Why Christians should speak out when fellow brethren are victimized

There have been serious attacks on people of faith around the globe and many Christians seem to be unperturbed by what is happening. It is often very disheartening to read how Christians are subjected to all manners of intimidation, violence, and humiliation simply because they openly identify with Christ.

This was how it started in Nigeria. There were no strong dissenting voices that opposed the abuse of the fundamental human rights of Christians. It started from marginalization, social exclusion, and persecution in their work places before it turned to physical attacks and mass murders, which is now the order of the day.

The fight for religious freedom should be taken seriously by all Christians now that it is still very early in some countries. Kelly Shackelford, president and CEO of First Liberty Institute, is doing a great job in America in standing up for the rights of Christians everywhere. I urge every Christian in America to give him and his team their support to fight for religious freedom.

The ongoing abuse of the rights of Christians can only continue if those who are supposed to speak keep quiet because they are not victimized. Martin Niemoller, a prominent pastor in Germany, famously said: First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out  because I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out  because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out  because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me  and there was no one left to speak for me.



This is what is happening in Nigeria today.

When they kill a Catholic priest, the Pentecostals will keep quiet. When they kill a Pentecostal pastor, other denominations keep quiet. This trend was allowed to continue until the present day; and now, its everywhere. According to Pastor Bosun, In 2018, we can say in 25 years from now, we are facing the risk of being the last Christians in Nigeria. Therefore, Christians should be on the frontline of defending democracy in Nigeria. The Church is the bastion of democracy. A divided Christian Association of Nigeria cannot defend democracy and promote justice, equity, and fairness. Consequently, Sharia will grow stronger. As Sharia grows stronger, democracy will become weaker, and the Church will be emasculated out of existence.

Is this prophecy not coming to pass? The population of Christians is being depleted daily, and missionaries can no longer work in many communities today for fear of being attacked. Is Christianity not being wiped out in Nigeria? No matter how bitter the truth may sound, the reality is that we are facing the consequences of our negligence of not defending our brothers and sisters when we are supposed to. The southern Christians kept quiet because it was the northerners who were attacked. Now, they are attacked everywhere, including in the south.

Many years ago, some pastors and I attended a meeting with government officials in one of the states in Nigeria, and the Commissioner of Environment said to us: Don't you know that Christians are second-class citizens in Nigeria? I realize now just how right he was.



Fellow Christians, arise and fight for religious freedom wherever you can and however you can. Otherwise, it wont be long before those rights disappear completely.
Mike Bickle accuser goes public with allegations IHOPKC calls 'unsubstantiated'

(CP) A woman who alleges International House of Prayer Kansas City founder Mike Bickle wooed her with Scripture when she was just 19, and he was 42, then made her a kept woman for several years as he established his ministry, says he did everything with her sexually except intercourse.

The woman, who was identified as Jane Doe by The Roys Report, alleges that for approximately three years, from 1996 to 1999, Bickle paid for her apartment, gave her a key to his office, and engaged in every sexual act with her except copulation.

Jane Doe's allegation comes in the wake of an investigation by IHOPKC of Bickle for "serious allegations including sexual immorality" made against him by multiple women. Leaders of the organization have since said only one decades-old claim has "some credibility" so far, but they have hired an outside law firm to help them make sense of the situation.

In a response to Jane Doe's allegations Monday, IHOPKC's executive leadership team said they are yet to be presented with any evidence to support the allegations against Bickle.

"To date, IHOPKC has not been presented with any evidence that substantiates sexual abuse allegations against Mike Bickle. Facts matter, and Mike, like anyone else, should be considered innocent of the charges until evidence establishes the contrary," the executive leadership team told CP.

Jane Doe alleges that she previously shared her allegations with IHOPKC and in her account to TRR, she explained that her father was a friend of Bickle, and she moved to Kansas City in 1996 to work as his intern.

"I just remember feeling like he knew the same Jesus that I knew," Jane Doe said.

She alleges that one Sunday after service, Bickle told her in front of his wife, Diane, that he had dreamt about her and prophesied that she was his Esther, and he was like David from the Bible.

"He gives me the biggest word of my life," she told TRR. "It was, 'You're not just an Esther, you are going to lead thousands of Esthers.'"

After he delivered that powerful word to her, Jane Doe alleges Bickle called her a few weeks later from Asia with another word from God, but this time, she said he sounded drunk.

"He begins to tell me that the Lord has spoken to him, and that Diane is going to die and that we're going to get married," she said. "As he's talking to me, I'm thinking, 'Is he drunk?' And he did start talking about the alcohol that was in the fridge that he had been drinking."

She said during their encounters, Bickle told her that his wife was going to die at least 100 times.

"That line that Diane, his wife, is going to die and that we're going to get marriedhe at least said that to me 100 times," she said.

Dwayne Roberts, a founding member of IHOPKC; Brian Kim, a former IHOPKC executive leadership team member; and Wes Martin, a former pastor of Forerunner Church, previously revealed in a joint statement that they were the ones who first confronted leaders of the charismatic Evangelical Christian movement and missions organization about the allegations against Bickle spanning "several decades."

"Without going into details to protect the privacy of the victims' identities, we have found these allegations of clergy sexual abuse by Mike Bickle to be credible and long-standing," they began in their statement. "The credibility of these allegations is not based on any one experience or any one victim, but on the collective and corroborating testimony of the experiences of several victims."

They allege that before meeting with IHOPKC's leadership team, they attempted to discuss the allegations directly with Bickle "in the spirit of Matthew 18:15-17" but were rebuffed. They claim Bickle attempted to intimidate, isolate, manipulate and discredit his victims.

"When these allegations were brought to our attention, we were shocked. We could never have imagined that inappropriate conduct with women as something we would ever need to be concerned about," the former IHOPKC ministry workers said. "The allegations seemed out of character to the man we thought we knew, but they were so serious we could not ignore them."

Bickle, they allege, used his position of leadership over the women to manipulate them.

"We believe that Mike Bickle's actions were not above reproach and fall short of biblical standards for leaders in the church," the former IHOPKC workers said. "To be clear, the allegations made about Mike Bickle's misconduct were sexual in nature where the marriage covenant was not honored. Furthermore, the allegations made also reveal that Mike Bickle used his position of spiritual authority over the victims to manipulate them."

IHOPKC explained in their "Report on Initial Findings," that they identified five of some eight women who the complaint group alleges are Bickle's victims and found the evidence thin. Three of the alleged victims called the allegations "lies.'" One of the alleged victims refused to communicate with the attorneys for the ministry.

Just one of the cases, predating Bickle's founding of IHOPKC, was found to have some credibility. The woman making those allegations is represented by noted attorney Boz Tchividjian, who founded the Virginia-based organization GRACE (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment), and is a grandson of the late evangelist Billy Graham.

IHOPKC's leadership team noted that even though the advocate group had initially pushed for the ministry to hire GRACE to investigate the claims against Bickle, they could not hire GRACE because of the Tchividjian's representation of the alleged victim.

"The Advocate Group has repeatedly been asked to come forward with direct evidence, but they have refused to do so. As stated in our Report on Initial Findings, the Advocate Group's allegations were also presented along with a list of pre-prepared demands 'to prevent escalating levels of disclosure'. These demands and threats, which included dictating the use of IHOPKC's funds, generated an atmosphere of concern regarding the true objectives of the Advocate Group," IHOPKC told CP Monday.

"In the past few weeks, people associated with the Advocate Group have publicly called for the IHOPKCs ELT to resign and be disbanded. We remain committed to verifying the remaining allegations and are in communication with multiple third parties to assist. We ask for patience. There is much at stake in getting to the truth."

 The Christian Post
UN refutes U.S. claim about safe places in Gaza

Xinhua) 13:13, December 06, 2023

UNITED NATIONS, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- A UN spokesman on Tuesday refuted the U.S. claim that civilians in Gaza should seek refuge in UN-designated safe places.

In response to U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller's suggestion on Monday that Gazans should seek refuge in UN-designated sites that are listed by Israel as "deconfliction zones," Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said there are no such things in Gaza.

"Well, let's be clear. There are no UN-designated safe zones in Gaza. I think all my senior colleagues have been very clear, including the secretary-general, saying there are no safe places in Gaza," said Dujarric.

"There are shelters that fly the UN flag that are sheltering thousands and thousands and thousands of people -- men, women, and children who are trying to stay alive and get some food, get some water. We have seen, since the beginning of this conflict, that those places that fly the UN flag are not safe either," he said.

Asked where people in Gaza should go when they are ordered to evacuate, Miller said, "People should go to the UN-designated sites where -- that are on Israeli lists as deconfliction zones that should not be the target of military campaigns."

"There are already people who are sheltering in those. As the (Israeli military) campaign moves to the south (of Gaza) and Israel evacuates specific neighborhoods or orders specific neighborhoods to be evacuated, that is where people should go," he said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The U.S. Navy has 22 Virginia Class nuclear attack aka SSN (nuclear-powered attack subs), submarines and is planning to eventually have at least 60 of them. Not all the Virginians will be the same because construction of the first one began in 1999 and it entered service in 2004. Only one or two can be built a year. That means the navy will be building Virginians into the 2040s. Those 2040 Virginias will be quite different than the ones entering service in the 2020s. The navy recognizes this by designating each distinct variety of Virginian with a Block number. Currently the navy is building Block 4 Virginias and the first Block 5s will show up in the late 2020s.

The navy is pushing new technology to its undersea fleet to make it safer, smarter and deadlier, while seeking to develop its next-generation SSN. This decision wont be made until the 2030s. That enables the navy to determine which new technologies are most likely to work in current and future SSNs. One of the key, and foundational new techs, is AI (Artificial Intelligence), particularly an AI system that can track and evaluate the performance of new systems. Many of the new systems are quite complicated and that makes it more difficult to determine if you have tested a new system sufficiently to validate its usefulness and reliability. There are several capabilities that are critical, including speed which is a major asset for SSNs because they are faster submerged than on the surface. This is due to their unique teardrop shape. Speed is only useful if it gets a well-armed sub where it needs to be to use the many weapons onboard. Finally, the SSN has to be robust and reliable to be available when needed. This includes the ability to remain on patrol for a long time with all capabilities intact.

Among the changes that will have the most impact is moving the Submarine Warfare Federated Tactical System to a cloud-based common computing environment. SWFTS coordinates subs sonar, imaging, electronic warfare, and combat systems, ship control, navigation and other new systems as they are introduced. This is where the work on AI is most important because effective AI is the key to this systems coordination working.

The navy believed they had a breakthrough naval weapon with the Block 5 Virginias. Just like the battleship revolutionized naval power a few years before World War I (1914-18), along with ocean-going submarines during that war and, by the 1930s, aircraft carriers, the Block 5 Virginia can carry a lot more guided missiles, high-tech torpedoes, and naval mines than ever before because all these weapons on an SSN have proved to be a decisive weapon. SSNs can travel at high speed underwater to trouble spots and deliver massive firepower before aircraft carriers can. As the Block 5 Virginias begin to enter service, so will a lot of new, or renewed, guided missiles and smart mines that became available as the first Block 5s get closer to their first appearance.

The Navy is already spending a lot of money on its new SSNs. The Navy has twenty Virginia class SSNs in service with 60 to 70 or more to be eventually built, depending on how much money is available and how well the substantially improved Block 5 models do. Over the last five years the speed of construction has increased as well as the rate of delivery in order to replace the aging Los Angeles class boats.

Each block of Virginias represents improvements, some of them substantial. There are currently five subclasses of Virginia, each identified by a Block number. There are four Block 1s, all in service by 2008. The six Block 2s were all delivered by 2013. Eight Block 3s were all in service by 2020 and ten Block 4s, with three in service by 2021 and the rest by the mid-2020s. The ten Block 5s wont all be in service until the early 2030s and future Blocks will be based on the larger and more heavily armed Block Vs.

The Navy currently expects to build 66 Virginias, but the importance of the large and more heavily armed Block Vs may increase that to over 70 subs with most of those based on the Block 5. Blocks 1-4 of Virginia are all armed the same way but eight of the ten Block 5s have additional space to store and launch missiles and can carry 65 missiles and torpedoes, 75 percent more than earlier Virginias. This is accomplished by adding a VPM (Virginia Payload Module) to the current design. This adds 25.6 meters to the length of the sub and increases displacement to 10,400 tons. The VPM adds four more large launch tubes that can hold different sizes of missiles. For example, each of the launch tubes can carry seven Tomahawk cruise missiles or a smaller number of new missile designs in development, like the hypersonic missile. Earlier Virginias have their vertical launch tubes forward of the sail (conning tower). The VPM is added behind the sail. The VPM design was not ready when the first block 5 began construction so the first two Block 5s will lack the VPM and be the same size as earlier Virginias. These two Block 5s will have all the other additional features common to all Block 5s. This includes improved electronics and sensors, and it is believed that the passive sonar in these model Virginias have much longer and more accurate detection ranges. Block 5 will also receive a large number of other equipment upgrades.

The additional missile capacity of Block 5 and subsequent Virginias is also meant to replace the cruise missile capacity being lost as the four Ohio-Class SSGNs (cruise missile carrying subs) are retired. These four boats are SSBNs (ballistic missile carrying subs) that were converted so their 24 ballistic missile launch tubes could carry seven Tomahawk cruise missiles each. Two of the missile tubes were dedicated to carrying navy SEAL gear but the others carried 154 Tomahawks. The success of the Ohio SSGNs led to the VPM, although it will require 22 VPM equipped Virginias to replace the Tomahawk carrying capacity of the SSGNs. This was seen as an advantage because there were few instances where an SSGN had to fire all or most of their Tomahawks. The VPM does not turn Virginia into an SSGN because all Virginias are still attack boats.

The Block 1-4 Virginia's cost about $2.2 billion each. They displace 7,800 tons and are 114.9 meters (377 feet) long and 10.36 meters (34 feet) wide. Top speed is over 50 kilometers an hour, max depth is more than 250 meters (over 800 feet). The Block 1-4 Virginias are armed with twelve Tomahawk cruise missiles (in vertical launching tubes) and four 53.3 cm (21 inch) torpedo tubes that can fire MK 48 torpedoes or naval mines. The Block 5s with the VPM will cost about $3.5 billion each.

More important are the large number of electronic systems carried. These make the Virginias more difficult to detect, which enables these subs to be more effective at espionage and scouting. The electronics can also quickly detect and identify incoming torpedoes and rapidly use countermeasures. The passive (listen only) sonar system is backed by a huge library of sounds. Virginias are also designed to operate in shallow waters and carry a SEAL Delivery Vehicle (sort of a minisub for getting SEALs ashore) outside the sub. With a dozen or so SEALs on board, a Virginia will be carrying nearly 150 people.

Virginias nuclear reactors are a new type that does not have to be refueled, having sufficient nuclear material to last 33 years. The reactors generate enough heat to provide 40,000 horsepower, as well as ample electricity for all the electronics. The block 2 models used less costly construction techniques, while the eight Block 3 boats have some design changes and new technology. The most dramatic improvements came with Block 5.

Development of Block 5 was accelerated by the appearance of new weapons for Virginia. In 2018 the navy returned the ENCAP, a cylindrical container in a torpedo tube which is launched and then fires a Harpoon anti-ship missile, to active service. The Navy withdrew the ENCAP Harpoon in 1997 but in 2018 test fired one of them, apparently refurbished for the occasion, and found they still worked as they were supposed to. The ENCAP Harpoons were initially replaced by an anti-ship version of the Tomahawk, which was to be withdrawn but remained in service with more upgrades. With the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the major naval adversary of the United States soon disappeared. The smaller Russian state could not afford to maintain, much less operate, the huge Soviet fleet. Now China is replacing the Soviet fleet as a major naval threat and new ship designs and weapons are back in favor.

By American 1999 subs were just carrying land attack Tomahawks, not just because the Soviet navy was gone but also because for either Harpoon or Tomahawk you have to have a general idea of where the target is before you fire the missile, which has its own terminal guidance system for locating a ship nearby and hitting it. But the subs rely on stealth for protection and that means few transmissions while underwater. For the ENCAP Harpoon, the 1990s passive sonar could, under the right conditions, locate a surface target out to about a hundred kilometers. Half that was needed, in most cases, for the Mk48 torpedo, which also had a terminal guidance system and could, at slow speed, reach a target out to about a hundred kilometers.

Since the 1990s there have been major improvements in the passive (just listening) sonar the subs use most of the time, as well as the tech used for a submerged sub to receive, or less frequently send, electronic information. When receiving data, the sub does not reveal its position to anyone monitoring that area of the ocean for transmissions. Sending data, even briefly, exposes the subs general location to being discovered.

Subs now have many more periscope capabilities. The conventional optical periscope has been replaced by devices that can be sent to the surface tethered by cable. These tethered devices can receive satellite and other electronic messages, as well as send. That means a sub could send up its satellite signal receiver many times a day when in a combat zone to receive updates on enemy activity. These could include firing orders for distant ships or land targets to be fired on using missiles. The latest version (Block II+ER) Harpoon has a 300-kilometer range and much better terminal guidance and countermeasures. But it is still a slow, at 800 kilometers an hour missile while the most modern anti-ship missiles have terminal attack speeds of more than three times that. Then again, for a surprise attack Harpoon can be useful as it comes in very low, sea skimming mode and often avoids enemy radar. One possible situation would have an enemy ship be detected by satellite or UAV with location information sent to an SSN within Harpoon range, or able to move into range where it could fire one or more ENCAP Harpoons and then go hide. ENCAP Harpoons blasting from the sea surface makes a lot of acoustic and visual noise. Another option is the ENCAP UAVs proposed for subs. These can be launched more quietly and spend several hours searching an area for any targets and sending the sub brief message bursts with the location of any targets. One version of ENCAP UAV was developed that be launched from the smaller countermeasure launchers,

The navy is not spending a lot of money on bringing the ENCAP Harpoon back into service. It is going to upgrade some older Harpoons and ship them as ENCAP weapons for possible use under the right conditions. The navy, as expected, isnt providing details and the details may involve some new tech or tactics that are best kept secret.

Another new weapon is the Hammerhead mobile mine. Hammerheads are encapsulated bottom mines that use a Mk 54 lightweight torpedo, which is normally carried by ASW helicopters and aircraft. Mk 54 has a range of ten kilometers and a guidance system that is regularly updated. Hammerhead is being used in a similar fashion to a larger version of this used during the Cold War that was deployed by surface ships and used the larger Mk 48 torpedo. In 1983 the navy introduced an earlier version of the Hammerhead concept as the Mk 67 SLMM or Submarine Launched Mobile Mine that carried the older Mk 37 torpedo. The Mk 37 was a late World War II design that was used into the 1970s. By 1987 there were still some in storage and they were adequate for SLMM. The SLMM was out of service by the 1990s with the end of the Cold War. Hammerhead is an encapsulated system equipped with improved passive sensors to detect and identify submarines and surface ships and attack specific types of targets, like diesel-electric subs or larger warships or commercial ships. Hammerhead is not only being carried by the Virginias, especially the Block 5, but also by the new Orca autonomous diesel-electric sub that can carry and deploy a dozen Hammerheads.

The U.S. currently has three classes of SSN. Most are the 6,900-ton Los Angeles-class SSNs. Sixty-two of these submarines were built and 26 are still in service. Armed with four 53.3 cm torpedo tubes, they carry twenty-six weapons for those tubes, either the Mk 48 torpedoes or BGM-109 Tomahawk cruise missiles. The last 31 Los Angeles-class SSNs added the Mk 45 VLS vertical-launch system, which carried another twelve Tomahawks. If built today these late model Los Angeles class boats would cost about $1.5 billion each. The first of these entered service in 1976, and the last one in 1996. These boats can last 30-35 years before they must be retired or undergo extensive repairs, as in over half a billion dollars worth of refurbishment and refueling. This can take 4-5 years and will keep the sub going for another 10-15 years. But theres barely enough money to keep building Virginias and no time or cash to refurb elderly Los Angeles class boats. That was why the number of Virginias planned was increased to 66 and the tempo of construction speeded up. This means the American SSN fleet will not shrink from 55 in 2013 to under 45 by 2030. The current building plan keeps the SSN numbers at or above fifty and, with all of the new Virginias based on the Block 5s, the new SSN fleet will be a lot more capable than the old one.

The first attempt at upgrading the SSN fleet failed. Twenty-nine 9,000-ton Seawolf-class SSNs were supposed to replace the Los Angeles boats but Seawolf proved too expensive. Only three were built. The Seawolf was designed for the Cold War, carrying fifty weapons including torpedoes, cruise missiles, or Harpoon anti-ship missiles for its eight 660 mm (26-inch) torpedo tubes. Seawolf was fast with a top speed of over 60 kilometers an hour and much quieter than the Los Angeles boats. The Virginia-class was designed to replace the un-built Seawolves. Think of it as a Los Angeles size hull with a lot of Seawolf technology installed. The Virginia class boats ended up costing about half as much as the Seawolfs even though the Virginias used a lot of the new technology developed for Seawolf.

There were also crew problems with the SSN force. An investigation report into the 2021 collision of the Seawolf-class Connecticut SSN revealed problems with crew training. That began with revised navigation training of officers and senior NCOs on nuclear subs as well as implementing more intense scrutiny of how well that training is done. This includes more frequent checks on how effective the training is over time.

The October 2021 Connecticut incident was the second American SSN to suffer an accident involving collision with a seamount in the last fifteen years. The leadership of the Navy SSN force realized they had a serious problem. In mid-November 2021 the commander of subs based in the Pacific agreed that an emergency stand-down or halt in regular operations to assess the state of navigation training among SSN crews was in order. At that time of the Connecticut collision, the investigation was not yet complete but enough was known to attribute the collision to poor training and supervision of the officers and sailors who handle underwater navigation.

When Connecticut collided with an underwater seamount, its damage was so severe that it had to surface immediately. The ballast tanks were damaged so the sub could not remain underwater. It was also feared that there might have been a radiation leak but none of the radiation monitoring sensors on the sub detected any. The navy relieved the captain of the Connecticut along with the executive officer (second in command), and the COB (Chief of the Boat, the senior NCO on the sub). These key personnel were relieved because of poor navigation procedures and the failure to train the crew to do it right. Now the submarine command wanted to find out the extent of the problem by similarly scrutinizing the status of navigation training and capabilities on all SSNs.

The first such collision occurred in 2006 and the reason was a lack of updated charts, which are nautical maps showing underwater obstacles, on all SSNs in 2006. That was thought to be remedied after the 2006 collision and all ships are supposed to have the electronic charts that are part of the new VMS or Voyage Management System that not only uses electronic copies of charts, but quickly updates charts when new underwater obstacles are detected. This is done via space satellites or various seagoing data collection systems. In 2016 the navy installed a new version 9.3 VMS system in American SSNs, and it was eventually discovered that this was not an issue with the Connecticut. Crews are given initial training on these new systems before they depart on a cruise. The two senior officers, and especially the COB, are responsible for ensuring that all sailors involved with navigation are properly trained to handle the VMS and the new charts. By the end of 2021 the navy admitted that the Connecticuts damage was extensive, and Congress agreed to provide $50 million for replacement components that must be manufactured, a process that could take months or longer. It is still unclear if the damage done is so extensive and expensive to fix that the navy budget might not be able to handle it. That could force the navy to retire the Connecticut.

The earlier collision of the USS San Francisco caused similar damage but was cheaper ($80 million) and easier to fix because the San Francisco was a Los Angeles class sub and many of those were being retired because of age. The San Francisco was not due to retire until 2017 because it had recently undergone a $170 million refueling and refurbishment. The navy did the math and realized that another Los Angeles class sub, four years younger than the San Francisco, was about to undergo a similar refurbishment. It was cheaper and faster to remove the forward portion of the younger sub and use it to replace the damaged portion of the San Francisco.

This approach would not work with Connecticut because it is a Seawolf class sub and there are only three of those. Connecticut entered service in 1998 and was expected to remain in service into the 2030s. The Seawolfs are larger and more capable than the Los Angeles class but too expensive to build in large quantities, so only three were built. Many of the innovations found on the Seawolfs were transferred to the smaller, more affordable Virginia class. This was a success and 66 are planned with 22 already in service.

The three Seawolfs were kept in service because they were already paid for and turned out to be quite effective. The new tech making that possible was now tested and it made the smaller Virginias much more effective, and not much more expensive than the Los Angeles class boats the Seawolfs were originally supposed to replace.

The Seawolfs themselves were another example of poor navy leadership in the key area of developing and building new ships. The Seawolfs were the first of a series of similar disasters that included the Zumwalt destroyers and the LCS frigates. Spending a lot of money to save Connecticut is not something the navy can afford anymore. The only exception is the third Seawolf, USS Jimmy Carter, which was heavily modified to become a longer, heavier, and unique intelligence collection sub. The Carter, which entered service in 2005, was a success in performing unique intel missions. The other two Seawolfs are not unique and useful, which makes them more likely to be retired early if unexpected and expensive-to-fix problems arise. This is what the navy is doing with many recently built but flawed LCS class ships. Connecticut now has a very expensive hardware problem and, like the LCS ships. is in danger of just being retired because of cost considerations.

Despite the greater capabilities of the Seawolf, the Connecticut collision demonstrated that crew quality is still a major factor. As much as the navy would hate to lose a Seawolf, the demise of the Connecticut makes it clear that crew quality is even more important and is not something you can build into a new ship. Crew quality is easier to misplace than ship quality and cost because the hardware cost is easier to demonstrate and justify.
In northeastern Mali, the army has managed to recapture the town of Kidal, which since 2014 was held by Tuareg tribal militias. The rebellious Tuareg are not the major problem in the north. The Mali army and a small number of Russian (Wagner Group) military contractors have persisted and prevailed over Islamic terror groups trying to cross the Niger border and advance into Mali. Chief among these are ISIL (Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) groups, an al Qaeda alliance called JNIM (Jamaah Nusrah al Islam wal Muslimin, or Group for the support of Islam and Moslems) and more violent groups like ISGS (Islamic States in Greater Sahara), which is one of the two ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) groups in the region. When they showed up in 2018, ISGS operated mainly in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, especially the area where the three borders met. Until recently those Islamic terrorists were a problem but now, they are a real threat to the normally well defended capitals of all three countries. Islamic terrorist violence in northern Mali has been killing a hundred or more people a month.

While the UN peacekeepers are leaving, local military forces, some with foreign assistance like the Russian Wagner group, have persisted and prevailed.
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Angus M. Thuermer Jr. has been a reporter, photographer, and editor in Wyoming for forty-five yearsa career, he says, that feels as if it began around the first thrust of the Tetons from the earths crust ten million years ago. He describes himself as a citizen, reporter, photographer, skier, angler, paddler, climber, hunter, in order of responsibility and commitment. (Its fun to be an engaged citizen, he said.)

The son of a CIA station chief in Berlin and New Delhi and an Associated Press editor, Thuermer moved to Jackson Hole after graduating from Yale in 1974, to climb in the Tetons. When an assistant pressman position at the Jackson Hole News opened in 1978, he decided it sounded better than the intermittent work he did as a roughneck on oil rigs. He would go on to lead the paper. After decades running a newsroom, Thuermer returned to the field in 2014 as the natural resource reporter for WyoFile, a nonprofit news outlet. (Jem Bartholomew and Dhrumil Mehta wrote about WyoFile recently for CJR and the Tow Center for Digital Journalism.) Thuermer covers a wide variety of stories related to land use, mining, and water rightssubjects that are affected by climate change in a state reliant on its land and ecology.

Covering climate at the local level can be difficult, especially in red or purple states; as Harvest Public Media reported last week, climate specialists and meteorologists across the Midwest have received threats and experienced burnout. And Wyoming itself is a polarized place. Its economy is based on mineral extraction as well as conservation, with the influence of outdoor tourism and agriculture at stark odds with the coal, natural gas, and metal mining that employs most of the states population. Peoples politics tend toward the leave me alone variety of libertarianism (the states motto is Equal Rights), but it consistently votes conservative, electing a far-right legislature that toes an authoritarian line. For those who live in Wyoming, natural resources touch most aspects of day-to-day lifewhether you work for a mining company, commute through a national forest, or just have a moose on your porchyet the opposing forces and ideologies around them are nearly impossible to reconcile.

Through it all, Thuermer and his colleagues at WyoFile continue to report factual, well-researched news. Recently, I spoke with Thuermer about citizenship, navigating conflicts of interest while reporting on the climate, and the necessity of giving all perspectives good-faith consideration. Our conversation has been edited for length and clarity.



KL: CJR and the Tow Center recently published a report on the state of Wyoming media and referenced WyoFile as a counterbalance to the conservative bent of Cowboy State Daily, a news site funded by a wealthy Republican donor. Do you agree that the declining numbers of local newsrooms and the influence of mega-donor dollars in Wyoming media are, to quote the article, an alarm bell for the rest of America?

AT: There just arent as many reporters covering local governments as there used to be. With that decline, something is going to fill the news void. The question, though, is one of information literacy and whether citizens have the desire to search forto find, discuss, consideropposing views, or whether its easier to say, Youre wrong, I dont want to listen to you. I think there are too many people who think that way. Its easier to adopt that attitude than it is to face the realities that surround us. The population is growing. Everybodys fishing hole is getting crowded, and the new people act differently from the ones who used to live across the fence on the other ranch. The change has totally disrupted my profession. Theres hardly a newsroom anymore with the scanner going off, and the photographer rushing out to chase the ambulance, and the deadline looming.

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As referenced, there was one news outlet that was started by a gubernatorial candidate because he wanted a megaphone. In some instances, outlets are seeking to spread a particular message or point of view; that may be more important than objective reporting. In those instances, its easy to create outrage and dress up clickbait as news coverage. I got a note from a reporter at a paper who said, Thank you for writing about this water pollution issue. My editor told me I can no longer write about it. It was a case of a communitys water supply being threatened by oil field pollution. Oil and gas are a major part of the economy of many counties in Wyoming, and the publisher didnt want to upset the apple cart.

Can you explain your beat as a natural-resources reporter?

I wrote the job description for my job as I wanted to cover wildlife, public lands, open lands, oil and gas development, water development, federal lands, national forests, wilderness areas, the Bureau of Land Management, grazing wild horsesthings like that. But I didnt want to call the position environmental reporter. That would have been starting out on the left foot, I think.

How does your beat differ from that of journalists who cover the climate crisis, or are explicitly climate change reporters?

I could write a story about an international climate panel declaring that this, that, and the other is a threat to the planet. But thats information that people can get from a variety of other sources; me spending my time writing about that is not going to change anybodys mind. And I think I tell smaller stories that are part of the larger picture.

The problem is that the issue of climate change is aligned with the burning of fossil fuels, which is the major revenue source of Wyoming and the basis for a very low tax rate and no state income tax. The Clean Air Act, an environmental regulation, made Wyomings low-sulfur coal advantageous to power companies, and then the industry blossomed. The state has been mainlining this revenue source for decades. Naturally, it is reluctant to be deprived of it. If a politician runs for office and says Im a miner or Im a driller or Weve got to keep this industry strong, well, shes going to get elected.

As you identified, fossil fuel influence in Wyoming is significant, and yet the state is full of people who ardently support conservation efforts. How do those ideologies coexist?

In some cases, they can compromise, but in a lot of cases, the dialogue gets polarized. Sometimes the dialogue takes place in court; frequently it does. I saw a list of thirty-seven instances where the state of Wyoming was engaged in all sorts of lawsuits on natural resources and environmental land use. But the energy folks would say that theyre conservationists as well. I toured one coal mine that had been reclaimed and there were forty elk out on it. The bulldozer guys who put the land back together left a couple of ponds that attracted the elk. In the final restoration, theyre not going to be allowed to let those ponds stay, but for now, theyre very proud of the elk herd that roams that property. Its private, which means hunters cant go there. And so elk are seeking refuge on a reclaimed mine in southwest Wyoming.

How do you make sure to cover conservation debates, or the implication of certain land-use decisions, while addressing that subset of your readers who are climate change deniers or dismissive of conservation efforts?

You have to present their arguments; you have to understand what they are and treat them in good faith. There can come a time when some of the arguments stop making sense, and at that point its a reporters job to figure out what does make sense, what the science does say, and point to those particular pieces of information and ensure that the source is a legitimate one: the peer-reviewed article as opposed to an industry white paper, for example.

Everybody in Wyoming supports wildlife and wants it to flourish. There is interest in reading about these things because it has an effect on their hunting season, their cattle herd, their fishing, their irrigation, or their cattle pasture. They want to find out about it, and theyre not afraid of talking about their point of view.

Understanding the costs of the climate crisis, is it still important to give a good, healthy level of consideration to people who are climate change deniers?

I think you should go ahead and talk to them. But its essential to put their answers in perspective and fact-check them. There are some people who will simply not be convinced. Ill give you two examples about people who adopted positions that they know nothing about: one was a state representative who believed that federal land should be managed by the state because the federal government wasnt taking care of the forests. In her estimation, there was so much deadfall [a tangled mass of fallen trees and branches] that the elk wouldnt go into the forests because they would break their legs. Well, if youve ever hunted elk, youll find them retreating to the densest, darkest places where theres the most deadfallthe place where it is most likely that a hunter would break his or her leg. I tried to talk to this representative, and it was impossible. It was like beating my head against a stone wall. I could not have a logical conversation with this person.

In another instance, a US representative said that you can see the antelope resting in the shade of the drilling rigas if to say that the disruption of the landscape doesnt bother the wildlife. Antelope stay out in the sun; they stay as far away from shade as they possibly can, because anything shaded can hide a predator. The fact of the matter is that they tend to avoid developed areas. Disruption of habitat is a cause for worry. At the same time, the successful conservationists and environmentalists are the ones who engage ranchers, are out walking in the irrigation ditch and talking with them. Ranchers, by the way, are also conservationists in their own right.

With such staunchly opposed perspectives in your community, how do you prevent alienating a wide swath of readers while also dutifully reporting facts?

Certain elements of society are alienated. They bad-mouth WyoFile, and there might be little hope of changing those minds. [But] one of our reporters attended a Trump rally, and he asked somebody for his opinion, and the gentleman gave him a quote, which the reporter dutifully copied and printed in the story. And the guy who was quoted wrote a comment and said, Gee, this guy asked me for my opinion, and I gave it to him and he wrote it down and he got it rightIm surprised. What a great victory that was. Reporters have to keep doing that. Democracy and literacy are hard work.

After forty-five years as a journalist, what would be your advice to other reporters and editors covering polarizing topics in a divided nation and a divided world?

I think you have to earn readers one at a time. There are some people who just cant be convincedtheyre certain that elk will break their legs in the forest and antelope bask in the shade of drilling rigs. But there is a way, I believe, to tell the story that the people who are genuinely interested in seeing their communities advance will take on the challenges theyre facing. There are people who are definitely willing to read news stories and reports that are even-handed, explaining relevant topics. Perhaps even just a small bite at a time.



Other notable stories:

ICYMI: The elephant in the room

Kevin Lind is a CJR fellow.
California regulators are alleging a San Francisco robotaxi service owned by General Motors covered up the severity of an accident involving one of its driverless cars, raising the specter they may add a fine to the recent suspension of its California license.

The potential penalty facing GM`s Cruise service could be around $1.5 million, based on documents filed late last week by the California Public Utilities Commission.

The notice orders Cruise to appear at a Feb. 6 evidentiary hearing to determine whether the robotaxi service misled regulators about what happened after one of its driverless cars ran into a pedestrian who had already been struck by another vehicle driven by a human on the evening of Oct. 2 in San Francisco.

The February hearing comes just six months after the commission authorized Cruise`s robotaxi service to begin charging passengers for around-the-clock rides throughout San Francisco despite strident objections from city officials who warned the driverless cars malfunctioned.

Three weeks after Cruise`s Oct. 2 accident, the California Department of Motor Vehicles effectively shut down the robotaxi service by suspending its license to operate in the state.

The suspension was a major blow for Cruise and its corporate parent GM, which absorbed huge losses during the development of the driverless service that was supposed to generate $1 billion in revenue by 2025 as it expanded beyond San Francisco.

After losing nearly $6 billion since the end of 2019, Cruise has shifted into reverse as it scrambles to control the fallout from the Oct. 2 accident that critically injured the run-over pedestrian and led to the recent resignation of CEO and co-founder Kyle Vogt.

Without directly addressing the potential fine, GM CEO Mary Barra said Monday that the October crash has helped the automaker learn more about the need for transparency and a better relationship with regulators.

Were very focused on righting the ship here because this is technology that can make the way we move from point A to point B safer, Barra told a gathering of automotive media.

Barra also pointed to the overhaul of Cruise`s management that included a reorganization of its government-relations and legal teams as signs of progress. We think we can do things more effectively, she said.

Cruise issued its own statement pledging to respond in a timely manner to the Public Utilities Commission`s concerns. The company has already hired an outside law firm to scrutinize its response to the Oct. 2 accident.

The most serious questions about the incident concern Cruise`s handling of a video showing a robotaxi named Panini dragging the pedestrian 20 feet (6 meters) at a speed of seven miles per hour before coming to the stop.

In a Dec. 1 filing recounting how Cruise handled disclosures about the accident, the Public Utilities Commission asserted the company tried to conceal how its robotaxi reacted to the accident for more than two weeks.

The documents allege Cruise`s concealment started with an Oct. 3 phone call to a regulatory analyst who was told the robotaxi had come to an immediate stop upon impact with the pedestrian without mentioning the vehicle actually drove another 20 feet with the injured person still pinned down.

Cruise didn`t provide the video footage until Oct. 19, according to the regulatory filing. The cover-up spanned 15 days, according to the PUC, exposing Cruise and GM to potential fines of $100,000 per day, or $1.5 million.

AP Auto Writer Tom Krisher in Detroit contributed to this story.

Top photo: Associated Press reporter Michael Liedtke sits in the back of a Cruise driverless taxi that picked him up in San Franciscos Mission District, Feb. 15, 2023. The California regulator that approved the expansion of the Cruise robotaxi fleet owned by automaker General Motors is now threatening to fine the driverless service for covering up the severity of an accident that triggered the suspension of its California license. The potential penalty could be in the range of $1.5 million, based on documents filed Friday, Dec. 1, by the California Public Utilities Commission. (AP Photo/Terry Chea, File)

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Berkshire Hathaway Energy Co.s PacifiCorp said it will pay $299 million to settle claims over wildfires that burned homes in southwest Oregon, averting another jury trial in litigation that has already exposed the utility to billions in damages.

The accord, disclosed Tuesday in a regulatory filing, will resolve claims by homeowners that the utilitys equipment was responsible for ignitions around Labor Day 2020 in Douglas County that burned more than 131,000 acres and destroyed more than 100 residences.

The settlement doesnt address claims by insurers and by several timber companies over lost trees. A trial in that case is set for Jan. 30. Investigations by federal agencies concluded that power lines operated by a PacifiCorp unit probably caused the blazes, now known as the Archie Creek Fire.

The company saw spreads on its investment-grade bonds narrow Wednesday. The bonds were among the most heavily traded of the day, according to Trace. Its 5.5% notes due in 2054 tightened 28 basis points to 180 basis points more than Treasuries, according to Trace pricing data, as of 3 p.m. New York time. The bond is at its highest price since July.

PacifiCorp  which touts itself as the largest grid operator in the western US  has been battered by lawsuits claiming the company failed to heed hazardous weather warnings and shut off power in its service areas before toppled power lines ignited fires.

In a trial targeting PacifiCorp over a different group of fires in the state on the same 2020 weekend, a state-court jury in Portland in June awarded $90 million to a group of 17 property owners  and paved the way for thousands of other residents to potentially seek billions more damages in early 2024.

The seven-week trial marked the first class-action case against a major utility to go to a jury following a series of catastrophic fires on the US West Coast in recent years that were touched off by historic droughts and searing heat exacerbated by climate change.

PacifiCorps legal woes follow the bankruptcy of PG&E Corp., which agreed to settle victim claims over a series of California wildfires for $13.5 billion in 2020. More recently, fires that razed the town of Lahaina on the island of Maui in August have left Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. facing liabilities of almost $5 billion if its found negligent.

Mikal Watts, a Puerto Rico-based lawyer who represents Oregon homeowners suing the utility over the Archie Creek Fire, praised PacifiCorps new chief executive officer for moving to resolve the claims prior to trial.

PacifiCorp said in a statement the accord covers 463 plaintiffs affected by the undeniably tragic 2020 fires and that the company is committed to settling all reasonable claims for actual damages as provided under Oregon law. The company said it has previously settled with other individuals and businesses and resolved hundreds of insurance claims.

The case is Ellis v. PacifiCorp, 22 CV 37304, Douglas County Circuit Court (Roseburg).

Top photo: In this aerial view from a drone, people walk through a mobile home park destroyed by fire on September 10, 2020 in Phoenix, Oregon. Hundreds of homes in the town have been lost due to wildfire. (Photo by David Ryder/Getty Images)

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.
AKRON, Ohio  Three Akron men who pleaded guilty to charges in connection with the shooting death of a pregnant woman in 2022 will spend decades in prison after being sentenced on Tuesday in Summit County Common Pleas Court.

Judge Alison McCarty sentenced Darrion Rackley, 20, to 34-to-39 years in prison, Antonil Whitaker, 17, to 20-to-24 years in prison, and Jeremiah Williams, 22, to 20-to-24 years in prison, according to Summit County Prosecutor Sherri Bevan Walsh.

Rackley pleaded guilty on Nov. 29 to involuntary manslaughter and two counts of felonious assault, all felonies with gun specifications. In July, Whitaker pleaded guilty as an adult to the same charges. Williams pleaded guilty in January to involuntary manslaughter and three counts of felonious assault, all felonies with gun specifications.

Prosecutors say all three men, along with four others, were involved in the April 14, 2022, fatal shooting of 21-year-old Teyaurra Harris.

According to the prosecutors office, Zyeir Saunders, 22, Rackley, Williams and Whitaker were parked on Rockaway Street in Akron. Nearby were 19-year-old Jaunte Smith, 21-year-old Jaevaiaire Small, and an 18-year-old male.

Harris was a passenger in a car which pulled up between the two groups, prosecutors say. The driver of that vehicle stuck his head out of the window, and Saunders and Whitaker reportedly started shooting.

Prosecutors say Small believed the shots were coming from the car with Harris inside and he opened fire. Harris, who was six-weeks pregnant, died after she was struck in the head by a bullet. The 18-year-old male, who was not charged, was struck twice in the leg.

Small was sentenced on June 20 to four years in prison after pleading guilty to aggravated assault with a gun specification, having a weapon under disability, and carrying a concealed weapon.

Saunders was sentenced to 35 to 40 years in prison in July after he pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and four counts of felonious assault.

Smith was sentenced in September to two-and-a-half years in prison after pleading guilty to aggravated assault with a gun specification.

The final defendant in the shooting, Lenier Worthy, 20, has a pretrial scheduled for Dec. 20. Worthy is being held in the Summit County Jail on a $500,000 bond on multiple charges, including reckless homicide, voluntary manslaughter, felonious assault, and aggravated assault, records show.
ATLANTA -- On Saturday, Oct. 7, at around 6:30 in the morning, sirens began sounding in the ancient city of Jerusalem. Israel has long used air raid sirens as part of its defense system, going back to its beginning in 1948. They are used to warn the population of air raids or missile attacks. Israelis that hear them know what to do. Take cover.

Per the Israeli Defense Forces, an estimated 2,200 rockets were fired that day toward southern and central Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. However, the rockets were only a part of the attack. Hundreds of gunmen stormed Israels southern border through various means, including motorcycles and paragliders. They killed about 1,200 people, most of them civilians, in the attack. They also took about 240 hostages. Israeli officials have also accused the gunmen of committing widespread rapes during the attack, as well.

Shortly after the attack began, Hamas claimed responsibility for the destruction and savagery. Hamas is a Palestinian group which has run Gaza, a Palestinian territory that borders Israel, since 2007. Its military wing is thought to have about 30,000 members.

In response, Israel jet fighters launched retaliatory strikes in Gaza the same day. Israels Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, declared that Israel was at war. Our president, Joe Biden, condemned Hamas attack and proclaimed, Israel has a right to defend itself and its people.

According to the BBC, Israel has drafted 300,000 reservists to boost its standing force of 160,000. Prime Minister Netanyahu said the goal of Israel is to destroy Hamas military and governing capabilities. Along with air strikes in Gaza, Israel launched a ground offensive.

Gaza is a 25-mile long and 6-mile-wide territory. This is roughly the same land area as Las Vegas. However, the population size in those locales is vastly different. Roughly 650,000 people live in Las Vegas; about 2.2 million people live in Gaza. In short, Gaza is one of the most densely populated areas in the world.

Given Gazas population density, any military operation conducted within its boundaries is as likely to kill civilians as it is Hamas militants. According to government officials in Gaza, which Hamas runs, almost 16,000 people have been killed in Gaza since Oct. 7. More than 36,000 people  three quarters of whom are women and children  have been wounded.

Anyone with access to a computer or smartphone can quickly find images and videos of the civilian costs of this war in Gaza. Children dead. Fathers and mothers, with tears streaming down their faces, searching rubble for their children. Elderly residents displaced or dead from an inability to find shelter or health care.

On Oct. 7, it would have been difficult to find an American elected official, or perhaps even a citizen, who would express anything other than full support for an Israeli military response. As President Biden said, Israel has a right to defend itself and its people. The conversation has since changed. There are now more than a few Americans, elected and otherwise, willing to call into question Israels response to the Oct. 7 attack. The cost of war being paid by civilians in Gaza is the reason why.

One cannot reasonably disagree with the claim that Israel has a right to defend itself, and in response to an attack such as that which occurred on Oct. 7, it has no choice but to do so. However, its not unreasonable to question how that defense is conducted, both its scope and its precision, when we readily see so many civilians  those who did not participate in the attack that triggered the response  appearing to suffer the consequences. Such a response to suffering is not antisemitic, it is human.

However, I think we have to be careful in this conversation about the propriety of Israels response to the Oct. 7 attack. We must be careful that the questioning of Israels response does not turn into a parade of righteous indignation. I caution us all that, as Americans, our history of prosecuting wars  especially those prosecuted with the pretext of defending ourselves  does not support moral haughtiness.

On Sept. 11, 2001, militants associated with the Islamic extremist group al-Qaida conducted a series of airline hijackings and suicide attacks in the United States. Almost 3,000 Americans were killed that day.

America responded with an expansive, multidimensional war on terrorism. We waged war in Afghanistan, where al-Qaida was headquartered. We waged war in Iraq based on, among other things, alleged ties between Iraq and al-Qaida. We conducted military operations in neighboring Pakistan.

As with those living in Gaza, civilians living in these countries paid a cost for our wars. According to a report prepared by researchers at Brown University that also included civilian casualties from U.S. operations in Yemen, Syria and other post-9/11 war zones, somewhere between 408,000 and 432,000 civilians died in the violence of these post-9/11 conflicts. However, the report notes that several times as many more have been killed as a reverberating effect of the wars, such as water loss, infrastructure issues, and war-related disease.

To be fair, those casualty numbers reflect deaths over a roughly 20-year period. Thus, civilians were killed at a lower rate than in Gaza. However, one might argue that this difference is the result of Gazas much higher population density, as opposed to evidence that America conducts war in a better or more careful manner. In 2019, according to a research paper that is part of Brown Universitys Costs of War project, 700 civilians were killed in Afghanistan in 2019, the wars highest civilian annual toll, following a 2017 U.S. decision to relax its rules of engagement for airstrikes and escalate its air war.

A Washington Post/ABC News poll released two days after the 9/11 attacks found that 93% of Americans backed taking military action against whoever was responsible. Two months later, a Gallup poll found that 62% of Americans favored a long-term war, while only 31% said that the war effort should focus just on those responsible. Thus, in two months Americans went from seeking retribution from those terrorists who were responsible, to seeking retribution from any person who could be deemed a terrorist and any country who could be deemed as harboring or aiding a terrorist. Fear is a terrible compass. It has no due north.

I dont recall a bevy of Americans, elected or otherwise, questioning our response to 9/11. Our collective position was clear: They attacked us here. Therefore, we will attack them there (or anywhere they could possibly be found).

I wonder, though, where were you while hundreds of thousands of civilians in the Middle East have died as a result of our military response? Or, perhaps even better, where have you been? Its easy to critique the actions of others. The harder task is to question your own.

Eric Foster is a columnist for The Plain Dealer and cleveland.com.

As the criticism of Israels response grows, remember that we were once in Israels shoes. Remember that we did not respond in the careful, calculated manner that we ask of Israel in this moment. We were scared. Angry. As a result, militants and civilians alike across several countries bore the consequences of our rage.

Accordingly, we must speak to Israel not from a place of moral righteousness, but from a place of humility, knowing that we are asking them to do what we could not. We are asking them to be better than us.

Eric Foster, a community member of the editorial board, is a columnist for The Plain Dealer and cleveland.com. Foster is a lawyer in private practice. The views expressed are his own.

To reach Eric Foster: ericfosterpd@gmail.com

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Mbabane  Renowned collagist and mixed media specialist Mesuli Mamba presents an exhibition christened Determined Imagination.

The upcoming exhibition will showcase nine artworks that bring to life the concepts of visualisation, planning, working smart, self-belief and the manifestation of desired goals. These theories are primarily based on the teachings of Bob Proctor, who has helped countless individuals achieve their aspirations. The approach for the exhibition opening is unique, aiming to provide emaSwati with the opportunity to start building their own art collections as part of their financial and social investment strategies. Each ticket sold includes a complimentary print signed and dated by the artist.

Remarkable

Mamba, a self-taught collagist, has gained recognition worldwide and his work can be found in collections across the globe. He has exhibited extensively, both locally and internationally, and achieved a remarkable success at the FNB Art Fair in 2019, nearly selling out his entire collection in just a few hours. Mamba believes that the pieces he creates come to him and he acts as a vessel to bring them into existence. Furthermore, the exhibition titled Determined Imagination, serves as a fundraiser for the completion of a gallery at Mahwalala, Mbabane. This gallery aims to make art more accessible to communities, where such facilities are scarce. Mamba sees the exhibition as an opportunity to nurture talent that may otherwise engage in no constructive pursuits.

The exhibition will take place at Lawu Lengwenya, an establishment located along the way to the Oshoek Border Gate. Mamba found the aesthetics of the venue and its surroundings to be ideal for hosting such an event, aligning with his vision for the exhibition. The show primarily features original Mamba Art pieces, and it will also include a performance by Mxolisi The Last Man Radebe, an author and poet who previously commissioned Mamba for a book cover of Akangacitfwa Lamanti. Negotiations are underway to secure a local musical artist and a fine artist from Botswana who have expressed interest in participating in the event.

Passion

Tickets, which include complimentary artwork, can be purchased at Galitos or directly from the artist. The exhibition is scheduled for December 23, and the artist is seeking partnerships with companies and individuals who share a passion for this initiative. While financial support is highly valued, contributions in the form of framing materials, varnishes, transportation logistics, catering and other relevant forms of assistance would also be greatly appreciated. Limited stalls are available for corporate entities at E1 500, while craft and food stalls are priced at E250. Mamba is also interested in collaborating with individuals who recycle or upcycle magazines and other paper consumables, as these materials form the main resource for his artwork.
MBABANE  Local musician Mvelo, known for her soulful sound, has been added to Sjavas upcoming concert in Mbombela.

The event dubbed Sjava Live in Mbombela will take place at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday, December 9. Thembinkhosi Mthethwa, a member of Sjavas record label, 1020 Cartel, expressed how this opportunity allows local talent to shine beyond Eswatins borders. Sjava is known for his commitment to providing opportunities to others, and this concert serves as a perfect example of that. Sjavas One-man Show in Mbombela is set to be a memorable event that will bring together the people of Mpumalanga. It marks the culmination of Sjavas successful year, which began with the release of his critically acclaimed album, Isibuko, in January.

Feature

The concert will feature live performances from Sjavas entire discography, including his three albums and two EPs. Many of the featured artists on his albums will also join him on stage.

Sjava expressed his excitement about bringing his one-man show to a new audience in Mpumalanga. He acknowledged the support he has received from the province over the past seven years and considers it a privilege to perform for them. The concert will also feature some of the biggest names in the South African music industry, including Maskandi favourites Shwi and Mzukulu, rappers Emtee, Nasty C, Maglera Doe Boy, and Saudi, Afro-soul vocalists Lwah Ndlunkulu and Anzo, as well as Amapiano star Focalistic. These talented artists are sure to captivate the audience with their outstanding performances. To make the concert more accessible to Sjavas supporters from outside Mpumalanga, travel and accommodation packages have been created. These packages, which include hotel accommodation and ground transportation are available for purchase on road2mbombela.co.za.

Important

However, its important to note that cooler boxes are not allowed inside the stadium. Food and beverages will be available for purchase at the venue. Sjava extends an invitation to South Africans from other parts of the country to join him at Mbombela for this extraordinary concert. It promises to be a remarkable event that showcases the best of South African music talent.
NGWENYA  A man and his three dogs were left in the cold after his structure was demolished by the Ngwenya Town Board yesterday.

Abel Manyisa (59), a squatter at Nkhungu informal settlement, was left in the open after a grader belonging to the town Board demolished his stick-and-mud house. Manyisa claims to have lived in the structure situated at Nkhungu for over 30 years. He alleged that he was warned about the demolition process, but was told by one Brenda Dlamini, an employee of the town Board, to vacate, as they would be demolishing the structure. The town Board Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Phumzile Shabalala, said all the squatters were aware that the farm belonged to government.

Squatters

Shabalala said Manyisas case was completely different from the other squatters, as the structure was on a plot that was allocated to someone in 2013, who had a farm grant. She said the farm grant belonged to Zano Investments and the owner bought it from government. However, she said since 2017, they had been communicating to Manyisa that the structure was wrongly placed, as the plot belonged to Zano Investments. Fortunately for us, Manyisa said the structure did not belong to him but the Mtshalis. She said the town Board approached the Mtshali family after Zano Investments informed them that they wanted to use the property.

Allocated

Shabalala said the Mtshali family wrote them a letter, requesting to be considered and allocated land in the new residential area. She said the town Board acknowledged receipt of the letter and informed them that government was still in the process of surveying and pegging the land, hence requesting to be given time. The CEO said the town board did not know Manyisa, but the Mtshali family. Shabalala said Manyisa and the Mtshali family should sort out their differences. Meanwhile, giving a brief background of Ngwenya, Shabalala stated that it was a mining town in the early 60s and the owners left the country, handing over the land to government. Shabalala said the area which was now occupied by Manyisa and other squatters was earmarked for development. She said following a survey which was conducted in 2017, they discovered that most the squatters who were employed by the mine took advantage, which was how they ended up owning land there.

According to Shabalala, some squatters, who were labourers at the mine, did not have houses, as these were not enough. She said labourers were then granted permission to construct temporary structures to live with their families. Even those who were not employed by the mine then took advantage, said the town board CEO. She said government then decided to expand the area under Farm 1209, into a development area. Shabalala said this was the same area which had squatters and the project was delayed as the town Board engaged them (squatters) for resettlement. The CEO said the town board, along with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade and that of Housing and Urban Development, were currently addressing the issue of development.

She said the town board, together with the stakeholders, came up with the proposal of human settlement. In 2021, she said government allocated a portion for resettlement of the squatters.

This portion of land, she said, was known as Nkhungu Township. Shabalala said, however, there were still 16 households that were still displaced, whereby, Manyisa happened to fall under. These households, Shabalala said, needed to then be accommodated inside the newly-developed Nkhungu Township. According to the CEO, the 16, who were outside the industrial area line would definitely be removed.
MBABANE  Masiyakurima Agrippa Bopela, the Zimbabwean national who was caught with E2.3 million at King Mswati III International Airport, reportedly opened a shell company in Eswatini, which he used as a conduit for laundering.

Investigations by the police allegedly revealed that the bank account of the company, which was registered as Groupo Bopela Eswatini, had a turnover of E5 922 350.28. A shell corporation is a company with no significant assets or operations, often formed to obtain financing before beginning business. It may hold passive investments or be the registered owner of assets. The allegations against the businessman are contained in an application filed by the prosecution, wherein it is seeking an order to forfeit the money in terms of the Prevention of Organised Crimes Act (POCA), 2018.

Turnover

Head of Asset Forfeiture Unit under the Office of the Director Of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Principal Crown Counsel Elsie Matsebula, informed the court that upon opening, the company account became very busy from the period between June 2021 and May 2023. She highlighted that the account made a turnover of E5 922 350.28. Matsebula highlighted that a bulk of the funds were transferred into Bopelas account, being a platinum cheque account and they were referred to as loans. She brought it to the attention of the court that the rest of the funds were utilised to pay individuals for unknown purposes. The principal Crown counsel submitted that there was a widespread private utilisation of the funds by the account holder, through account purchase that could not be associated with the business of the company. The point of sale transactions included transactions referenced Movie Zone, school pocket money, airtime, Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), medical check-up, Sibonelo Investment, laundry services, electricity, Debonairs and many others as shown in financial statements of the account, submitted Matsebula.

She stated that bulk funds would be received into the company account then quickly transferred either on the same day or the day after into Bopelas personal account, referenced as loans.

There is clear evidence supporting that the company, which is a shell company, would not have been in possession of the said funds. This is due to the fact that the company never operated nor engaged in any business, averred the head of Asset Forfeiture Unit. Matsebula contended that the company was merely registered for the purpose of opening bank accounts. She said as a result, the funds had to be quickly wired and layered by the act of transferring them into Bopelas personal account.

Funds

Matsebula pointed out that once the funds were credited into Bopelas account, they would be utilised for his private needs. She argued that Groupo Bopela Eswatini was a shell company and there was a clear trend of laundering. It was further her submission that the shell company stood as a source of the funds as they were utilised by the respondent (Bopela) through his personal account , who gave the impression that the funds were lawfully obtained as loans by him from the company. Our jurisdiction was utilised to launder proceeds through opening the shell company, Groupo Bopela Eswatini, which received the funds, contended the principal Crown counsel. She went on to bring it to the attention of the court that locally, Bopela opened two personal accounts with First National Bank (FNB) Eswatini.

She submitted that there were a number of transactions in the accounts referenced Soko. Matsebula stated that an analysis of these transactions would be funds moving out of the business account into the personal account of the respondent again referenced as Soko. Such transactions, according to Matsebula gave the impression that a certain Soko was paying into the accounts yet these were simply inter account transfers between the account of the shell company and that of the personal account and vice versa. She noted that the same reference (Soko) would be against credited in the accounts but there would be no corresponding debit in the other account. She averred that this showed that this was a payment from outside the two accounts but it was referenced Soko. Again the same reference Soko will be utilised against debits in one account without a corresponding transaction in the other account, which shows that that particular account is transferring amounts to other unknown accounts, she argued.

Evidence

This is clear evidence that the reference Soko was utilised as a disguise for funds either credited or debited by the holder of the accounts. The holder of both accounts is the respondent, he is hiding behind incorporation when it comes to him transacting against the account of the shell company, contended the head of Asset Forfeiture Unit. She submitted that there were further transaction referenced Ethiopian project. This reference, as per Matsebula, was against funds received into the business account and credits ran between the period November 2021 and February 2022. She told the court that on September 21, 2021, a bulk amount of E500 000 was transferred from the personal platinum cheque account referenced equipment Ethiopia.

It alleged that a month later, the credits referenced Ethiopia project began flowing into the business account. Matsebula then drew the attention of the court to the fashion of the transactions referenced Soko and Ethiopian project. She pointed out that all the transaction followed a staggered fashion and this was called structuring in money laundering. Matsebula explained that, structuring in money laundering was when criminals made transactions intentionally by splitting larger amounts into a series of smaller amounts to avoid scrutiny from law enforcement or accomplice obligations.

Criminals

In other words, criminals strategically structure deposits just under the reporting threshold to prevent detection. Moreover, the monies will be deposited in the accounts and quickly transferred or utilised. This manifest the purpose of mere washing or laundering the funds as opposed to running a business, argued the principal Crown Counsel. Matsebula alleged that the evidence showed clear abuse of corporate entity and as such, the prosecution was praying that the corporate veil should be lifted in this case. Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe denied having authorised Bopela to leave the country with a large sum of money. The court was also told that police in Zimbabwe was also purportedly conducting some investigations into the matter. The application to forfeit the money is still pending in court. The respondent is represented by Lucky Howe.
Big bank CEOs will likely convey deposits and earnings are stable to lawmakers on Wednesday, according to a major financial services executive. Thomas Michaud, CEO of Stifel company Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, thinks the hearing before the Senate Banking Committee will successfully provide assurance to Washington and Wall Street. Banking chiefs slated to speak at the "Annual Oversight of Wall Street Firms" hearing include JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon and Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon. "The crisis of the spring where we had three of the four largest failures in history is behind us," Michaud said on CNBC's " Fast Money " on Tuesday. He's referring to Silicon Valley Bank , Signature Bank and First Republic  the latter of which was the nation's biggest bank failure since the 2008 financial crisis. Michaud, who testified before Congress in May on the bank failures, hopes Wednesday's hearing re-addresses the call for changes to prevent bank runs from pushing other financial institutions over the edge. "One way to fix it is deposit insurance reform," he said. "The targeted approach to change deposit insurance to reduce the 'too big to fail' thinking, so depositors don't run like that. That is what we need, and that effort has stalled in Congress." He thinks action is needed to keep mid-sized banks competitive with the big banks  starting with lifting Federal Deposit Insurance Corp coverage limits for small businesses. Currently, the FDIC covers $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, per ownership category  an amount that is likely inadequate for small businesses . "If deposit insurance reform in my opinion doesn't happen, there's going to be tremendous pressure on those [mid-size] banks to consolidate," Michaud said. Disclaimer
U.S. President Joe Biden gestures as he delivers remarks on aid to Ukraine from the White House in Washington, U.S., December 6, 2023. Kevin Lamarque | Reuters

The Biden administration announced Wednesday that it would forgive an additional $4.8 billion in student loan debt, for 80,300 borrowers. The relief is a result of the U.S. Department of Education's fixes to its income-driven repayment plans and Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. "Before President Biden took office, it was virtually impossible for eligible borrowers to access the student debt relief they rightfully earned," U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in a statement. "This level of debt relief is unparalleled and we have no intention of slowing down."

More than $2 billion of the aid will go to nearly 46,000 borrowers enrolled in income-driven repayment plans. Those plans are supposed to lead to debt forgiveness after a set period, but this often didn't happen because loan servicers failed to keep track of borrowers' payments, experts say. In addition, 34,400 borrowers who have worked in public service for a decade or more will receive $2.6 billion in loan cancellation, the U.S. Department of Education said. Borrowers in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program have also struggled to get the debt erasure they've been promised due to errors in their payment counts and other issues. The Biden administration has now cancelled nearly $132 billion in student debt for more than 3.6 million Americans.

Forgiveness may set Biden apart in election

The actions are likely to help President Joe Biden as he runs for reelection, said higher education expert Mark Kantrowitz. "Biden has forgiven more student loan debt than any previous president," Kantrowitz said. "It distinguishes him from other candidates." Republican nominees for president oppose student loan forgiveness. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie has said that Biden didn't have the authority to cancel student debt without prior authorization from Congress.

watch now

"He knows he's done something that is illegal and over the top," Christie said on ABC's "This Week" in 2022, shortly after Biden announced his sweeping debt forgiveness plan, which the Supreme Court ultimately rejected in June. At an estimated cost of about $400 billion, that plan would have been one of the most expensive executive actions in history. Former President Donald Trump sided with the Supreme Court. "Today, the Supreme Court also ruled that President Biden cannot wipe out hundreds of billions, perhaps trillions of dollars, in student loan debt, which would have been very unfair to the millions and millions of people who paid their debt through hard work and diligence; very unfair," Trump said at a campaign event in June.
A smoker inhales a disposable e-cigarette made by Elf Bar, which is presenting it to visitors at the Intertabac trade fair. Roberto Pfei | Picture Alliance | Getty Images

A new breed of e-cigarette has addicted teenagers and confounded regulators worldwide by offering flavors like Blue Cotton Candy and Pink Lemonade in a cheap, disposable package. The tycoon dominating this latest wave is Zhang Shengwei, 50, a veteran of China's vape industry in the southern manufacturing hub of Shenzhen. Most people have never heard of him. Zhang quietly rose over 15 years from a boutique exporter to become one of the world's largest vape manufacturers. His main company, Heaven Gifts, now competes with industry giants Juul Labs Inc and British American Tobacco Plc in the United States, the United Kingdom and across Europe. Zhang has navigated shifting regulations in countries cracking down on candy-flavored vapes, which many health advocates say are designed to hook teenagers. In the United States, the firm simply ignored regulations on new products and capitalized on poor enforcement. It has flooded the U.S. market with flavored vapes that have been among the best-selling U.S. brands, including Elf Bar, EBDesign and Lost Mary. In the United Kingdom, by contrast, Zhang has complied with regulations requiring lower nicotine levels and government registration while building an unmatched distribution network  and driving a surge in youth vaping. In China  where more than 90% of the world's vaping devices are manufactured  Zhang steered clear of domestic sales, resisting the temptation of a gargantuan market with 300 million smokers who might be converted to vaping. His focus on exports looked prescient when Beijing last year banned all domestic sales of flavored vapes, crushing some of Zhang's competitors that had bet heavily on the China market. Zhang, who also does business under the corporate name Shenzhen IMiracle Technology, declined requests for an interview. A Heaven Gifts spokesperson, Jacques Li, said the company does not market to children and takes youth-vaping concerns seriously. He acknowledged the company's flavors could attract teens but said the company is modifying its packaging to be less appealing to youth and discontinuing some flavors, such as "rainbow candy." Flavored vapes are more effective in helping smokers quit than those that mimic cigarettes, he said. "Adults like flavors, too," Li said. "Flavored e-cigarettes shouldn't be demonized. They're not evil." Zhang's deft maneuvering illustrates the difficulty of curtailing youth vaping despite a global effort to halt a new wave of teenage nicotine addiction. It also highlights how China's domestic candy-vape crackdown is proving to be a rare success  even as its homegrown e-cigarette industry continues to dominate manufacturing and exports. China's enforcement wins owe to its communist government's greater power over companies and willingness to levy stiff penalties. Chinese state media has trumpeted crackdowns including a March raid on a nationwide distribution network, in which authorities seized e-cigarette inventory valued at 150 million yuan ($21 million USD) and arrested 10 people. Sales of vapes, now permitted only in unpopular tobacco flavors, plummeted from $2.9 billion in 2021 to $1.7 billion in China last year, according to market research firm Euromonitor International. Sales are predicted to fall much further this year. In banning flavors, China cites the same health concerns with youth vaping as other governments. But Beijing has a unique conflict of interest in the crackdown: It also runs a state cigarette monopoly, which accounts for 8.7% of China's tax revenue and directly benefits from strict e-cigarette regulation. China National Tobacco Corp, according to Euromonitor, last year sold more than 2.4 trillion cigarettes, nearly four times as many as U.S.-based tobacco giant Philip Morris International reported selling last year. "Everything about the regulations is about protecting cigarettes," said Geoff Fong, founder of the International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation Project at Canada's University of Waterloo, which evaluates the impact of tobacco regulation across 31 countries. China National Tobacco and the State Tobacco Monopoly Administration, which regulates cigarettes and e-cigarettes, did not comment. As China cracks down on e-cigarettes at home, it continues to help vape manufacturers including Heaven Gifts export millions of candy-flavored vapes. With the domestic flavor ban, China also levied new taxes on e-cigarette manufacturers, importers and domestic distributors. But those taxes don't apply to e-cigarette manufacturers targeting overseas markets. Authorities also smoothed the way last year for overseas shipping by "white-listing" Heaven Gifts and many other Chinese vaping companies at Shenzhen's airport, requiring fewer export inspections, according to Heaven Gifts and a post last year from China's e-cigarette association. In the wake of China's domestic flavored-vape ban, the value of the nation's exports of e-cigarettes and related products jumped 29.9% to $5.48 billion in the first half of 2023 from the same period a year earlier, according to data from China's General Administration of Customs. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), by contrast, has had little success curtailing flavored e-cigarettes under restrictions implemented since 2020 amid public outrage over youth vaping. Heaven Gifts and many other China-based manufacturers are selling millions of vapes in the United States without getting FDA authorization for their products, which is required of any foreign or domestic e-cigarette purveyor. By moving forward with illegal sales, the Chinese firms are grabbing market share from companies trying to comply with the FDA's lengthy and expensive approval requirements. The FDA requires extensive studies to prove any vaping product is a net benefit to public health by helping adults quit smoking without addicting new users to nicotine. Brian King, who heads FDA's Center for Tobacco Products, which regulates e-cigarettes, said in an interview the agency can't levy penalties or file lawsuits against foreign companies. The FDA, he said, also lacks enough enforcement resources to stem the tide of cheap Chinese vapes once they reach U.S. shores. Asked what he knows about Zhang, King declined to comment on any individual or company but said the agency is "obviously aware of the Elf Bar product." In a statement, British American Tobacco called on the FDA and law enforcement to crack down on illegal products from Heaven Gifts and others that have "overrun" the U.S. market. These manufacturers, it said, are "flagrantly violating virtually every rule and guidance FDA has issued. These products continue to pour across our borders and target youth." Juul said in a statement that "inadequate enforcement" against illicit disposable products "undermines FDA's ability to oversee a properly regulated marketplace." Company spokesman Li said Heaven Gifts is "trying our best to stay compliant in the U.S." but did not answer questions about whether the company had filed required FDA applications. He called the FDA rules incoherent and unclear as to "what standards you have to meet," without citing specifics. The FDA had no comment on Li's critique. U.S. youth vaping rates have dropped significantly since the coronavirus pandemic. But Elf Bar has quickly grown into the most popular product among teens. A June study released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that Elf Bar was the number one U.S. disposable e-cigarette brand in December 2022, about a year after it went on sale. A separate national survey of youth tobacco use released last month by the CDC and FDA found Elf Bar was the brand of choice for 56.7% of middle- and high-school vapers. Matthew Myers, who recently retired as president of advocacy group Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, said the government's failure to enforce the law is allowing companies like Heaven Gifts to make "massive profits," while putting "anybody who tries to do the right thing" at a disadvantage. The open sale of products without FDA authorization "is about the most blatant thing that I've seen," said Myers, who worked for four decades as a tobacco regulator and anti-smoking advocate. "What you've got is a guy who's thumbing his nose at the United States government." Li said in a statement Tuesday that the company was "working with regulators in the U.S. to solve the issue," without elaborating on those communications. The FDA did not immediately comment on whether it has interacted with the company.

Winners and losers

The FDA said it is still assessing information on detained imports but that such data can't capture the "true impact" of its alerts. The agency said it believes the alerts likely cause "countless firms" to voluntarily stop importing illegal e-cigarettes. Five current and former executives in the Chinese vaping industry told Reuters that Heaven Gifts' flouting of FDA rules follows a common playbook across China's e-cigarette industry. Following the rules, they said, costs companies millions of dollars in compliance expenses and lost profits while competitors enter the U.S. market illegally with little or no consequences. Elf Bar and other Heaven Gifts brands remained the market leader in disposable e-cigarettes in the quarter ending in September, according to the Circana data. The FDA's King said the agency acted on Elf Bar once it had data showing that the product was a top seller and popular among youth. He said it takes time to build enforcement cases against U.S. based suppliers or retailers selling illegal vapes. "We can't be everywhere at every time," King said. "So I've got to prioritize the resources we do have." The agency has relatively little money to pursue e-cigarette companies, King said, because it does not assess fees on the industry for that purpose. It's now seeking the authority from Congress to do so. Enforcement is also slowed by the need to consult with the U.S. Justice Department before suing violators, King said, and an agency practice of sending distributors and retailers warnings before taking action. After sending warning letters beginning in June to more than 300 retailers selling Elf Bar, the agency has since fined more than 60 businesses, many of them gas stations and convenience stores.

Meet 'Wayne'

Disposable vapes such as the Elf Bar typically contain much higher volumes of nicotine liquid than earlier versions of e-cigarettes, including those from Juul. And they're easier to use: Just open the box and start puffing. Before the 2020 U.S. rules, Juul dominated the U.S. vaping market with a device using "pods" of nicotine liquid in an array of flavors that were a hit with teenagers, making the company the prime target of public outrage. A Juul pod has about 200 puffs; some Heaven Gifts vapes offer up to 5,000 drags. A Juul starter kit costs at least $40 for a charger, device and pack of four pods. Zhang's devices commonly sell for about $20. Juul pulled popular flavors such as Mango ahead of the 2020 FDA restrictions, which prohibited flavors in pod-based devices. Heaven Gifts has offered Lemon Drop, Strawberry Pina Colada and Tropical Rainbow Blast, among many others. Sales of disposable vapes including the Elf Bar have exploded because users consider them a good value, said Becky Freeman, an associate public-health professor at the University of Sydney in Australia, which has also seen a sharp rise in unauthorized e-cigarettes, many from China, and youth use. "If you're a group of kids, you pitch in some money, and you share it," Freeman said. "It's the right product, the right price, and you can get it in all these flavors." Five years ago, Heaven Gifts made no products of its own, operating as an exporter and distributor of other Chinese-made vaping products, such as the Suorin and Smok brands. Zhang originally exported vaping products made by the Chinese company Ruyan, which is credited with inventing the modern e-cigarette. In the industry's early days, in the late 2000s, Zhang was widely known as "Wayne" on online vaping forums. He started the company in a Shanghai apartment with five other staffers, said company spokesperson Li. Zhang used the bathroom as his office, he said. Heaven Gifts was founded in 2007, Li said. The name evoked the notion that vaping offers a miracle cure for the afflictions of tobacco cigarettes. Trading companies like Zhang's targeted mom-and-pop vape stores and regional distributors who couldn't afford to buy the large minimum orders demanded by manufacturers in Shenzhen's "Vape Valley." Heaven Gifts moved from Shanghai to Shenzhen in 2014 in a bid to make its own product. Early efforts failed, said Oliver Kershaw, founder of e-cigarette-forum.com, a popular hub for industry players and vaping enthusiasts. But Heaven Gifts excelled in cultivating ties with distributors, particularly in the UK. In 2019, still determined to manufacture his own e-cigarettes, Zhang started investing heavily across the production chain. Heaven Gifts took a 14.6% stake in manufacturer Shenzhen Youme Technology, the maker of Suorin vaping products, according to Chinese corporate data website Tianyancha. Shenzhen Youme did not comment. Zhang also invested in makers of batteries, heating chips, nicotine liquid, and a highly automated vape factory in the nearby city of Zhuhai. Li said such investments were "very important" strategic moves for Heaven Gifts. Li said the company launched the Elf Bar first in the UK, in 2021, and later that year in the United States. Heaven Gifts has grown from 200 staff around a year ago to more than 700 today, Li said. At a time when many Chinese graduates struggle to find jobs, the company presents itself as friendly and international, with promotional videos showing 20-something staffers fistbumping and clinking bubbleteas in a bright modern space. Two people who work with Zhang describe him as low key. He dresses simply, despite his newfound riches, in jeans and collared shirts. He's a hands-on manager with sales, research and strategy teams but keeps relatively quiet in meetings. He still goes by Wayne, Li said.

Sparking a UK youth-vaping boom

Before launching the Elf Bar, Heaven Gifts established a distribution beachhead in the UK. While operating as a middleman, moving products from China's Vape Valley through local distributors, Zhang also set up his own branded website called Deepvaping to sell directly to consumers and retailers. The UK offered a more permissive regulatory environment. As the United States debated banning flavors, the UK allowed them, while setting limits on nicotine levels and requiring vape companies to register with regulators. Heaven Gifts says it abided by the UK rules. U.S. youth vaping surged with the rise of Juul in 2018 and 2019, but it was more controlled in the UK until the introduction of the Elf Bar and similar flavored disposables. Then it jumped: A survey released in June by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), a British public-health organization, found that more than 20% of children aged 11 to 17 had tried vaping by 2023, up from about 14% in 2020. The increase, the survey found, was driven overwhelmingly by disposables, the Elf Bar being the most popular. Hazel Cheeseman, deputy chief executive of ASH, said disposable-vape manufacturers such as Heaven Gifts "have not been taking remotely seriously that their products are so appealing and so widely used by under-18s." The UK and the European Union both have regulations restricting nicotine levels, which means the amount of nicotine in a European Elf Bar isn't enough to satisfy most cigarette smokers trying to quit, said Kershaw, the e-cigarette-forum.com founder. But it's enough to lure nonsmokers and potentially addict them. In July, consumer-products and vaping wholesaler Supreme Plc announced a deal to supply Elf Bar and Lost Mary to several major British supermarket and convenience store chains. Supreme says on its Elf Bar product webpage that about 2.5 million of them are sold weekly in the UK. Supreme did not answer questions about public-health advocates' concerns with the products, but said the company expects to generate 40 million pounds ($50.4 million USD) in revenue from the products for the year ending in March 2024. Elf Bar and other flavored e-cigarettes are illegal in some parts of Europe, including Hungary, where local laws are more restrictive than EU tobacco regulations. Hungary has battled a surge of illegal disposable vapes for more than a year, according to Tibor Demjen, who leads Hungary's anti-tobacco efforts. The government has slowed sales but not stopped them, he said. He accused the disposable purveyors of trying to "infiltrate the young population with nicotine." "It's their job," Demjen said, "and they do it well." Heaven Gifts spokesperson Li said the company is "paying great attention" to the issue and blamed illegal smuggling of products meant for other markets into Hungary.

Botched crackdown
It has been quite a year for both Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk given the boom in weight-loss drugs. Stocks of both pharmaceutical companies have rallied this year. Shares in Eli Lilly are up around 60% year-to-date, while its Danish counterpart Novo Nordisk has seen a gain of around 50%. As investors consider whether to buy either stock  or both  Rahul Ghosh, equity portfolio specialist at investment firm T. Rowe Price (TRP), revealed his favorite. "Our research suggests that Eli Lilly is probably a little bit more down the road in terms of having an oral solution. Not to say that Novo Nordisk won't get there," he told CNBC Pro on Nov. 29. "So, it's really a question of choosing between the best and second best  but by such a small margin." At present, both Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk offer weight loss treatments. Eli Lilly received approval from the U.S. Food and Administration (FDA) for its tirzepatide weight-loss drug in early November. This means that overweight adults with at least one weight-related condition can now use the drug  marketed as Zepbound  for chronic weight management. Similarly, Novo Nordisk announced last month that its Wegovy weight-loss drug could receive expanded approval from the FDA within six months . Eli Lilly With obesity, or being overweight, being a "common denominator" for health conditions like diabetes, cancer and arthritis, TRP's Ghosh believes that the "positive impact" of Eli Lilly's drug extends beyond managing weight to preventing chronic illnesses. He also foresees that reducing people's weight can eventually bring down healthcare spending in the longer term. "There is a much more broad and positive sector dynamic that the company brings. Eli Lilly is something we've known for a while  we certainly like it, but I think people are underappreciating the opportunity," Ghosh said. According to FactSet, of the 30 analysts covering Eli Lilly, 22 have a buy or overweight rating on the stock at an average target price of $631.67  giving it around 8% upside potential. German private bank Berenberg recently raised its price target on the U.S. pharmaceutical drug manufacturer to $680 per share from $600. "Eli Lilly (Lilly) has delivered the strongest share price performance in the global large pharma sector [year to date] but we think there are reasons to continue to buy this name into next year," the analysts wrote in a note to investors. Novo Nordisk Novo Nordisk's Wegovy recently made headlines for reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes by 20% in adults with heart disease and obesity. The findings of the trial  which were presented at the 2023 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions in November  show that a weight-loss medication can help protect against serious heart problems in obese adults. Citi is bullish on the stock, as it "continues to offer materially higher growth and returns ( > 3x pharma peers), and provides earnings visibility beyond 2035." "Wegovy commands a 96% share of the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) obesity market. Over 80% of business comes from patients paying a $25 monthly co-pay, with cash-pay representing 5-10% Rx [medical prescriptions]," the analysts wrote in a Dec 1 note. Some 500,000 people in the U.S. currently take Wegovy and the company stands to gain from an addressable patient population of over 100 million in the U.S. and 700 million globally, the analysts noted. They have a buy rating on the stock at a target price of 815 Danish krone ($118.39)  giving Novo over 17% upside. Of the 28 analysts covering the stock, 16 have a buy or overweight rating with an average price target of 729.28 Danish krone, according to FactSet. Both? Aside from Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, Pfizer and AstraZeneca are also developing weight-loss drugs. However, the former two remain "leaders in the market," says Elizabeth Field, head of European pharmaceutical research at Barclays. "We think it's really going to stay that way for a while. And so, really, for 2024, it's all about how fast can these companies make the drugs because demand is there," she told Squawk Box on Nov. 24 . "What's really worked across all global pharma this year is owning Novo and Lilly because it's been a difficult space kind of sector-wide."  CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report.
The excitement around weight loss drugs has created some big winners and losers in the stock market, but playing the trend with ETFs can be tricky. Recent medical breakthroughs have a type of treatment developed for diabetes, sometimes referred to as GLP-1 drugs, can also be effective in helping users lose weight . Tom Essaye, founder of Sevens Report Research, explained in a note to clients Tuesday that this could have a wide ranging impact on the demand for different consumer products. "The reason these GLP-1 drugs have had such a varied and broad impact on different parts of the market can be summed up by this statement: There are expectations that these GLP-1 drugs could result in substantially less food consumption across the country in the coming years," Essaye said. While the market could shift in the coming years, the current GLP-1 excitement is centered around two companies and their brands: Ely Lilly 's Mounjaro and Zepbound , and Novo Nordisk 's Ozempic and Wegovy. With just two dominant players, the holdings and weightings of sector ETFs become even more important. Some of the biggest health care sector funds don't even include Novo Nordisk, which is based in Europe. Essaye highlighted the VanEck Pharmaceutical ETF (PPH) as the top choice in the space  even though it has underperformed the broader market this year with a total return of just over 3%  because it has high exposure to both Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk. PPH YTD mountain PPH has high exposure to Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, but has underperformed the broader market so far this year. "Bottom line, PPH provides broad pharma exposure but also provides relatively large allocations to the two market leaders in the GLP-1 space," Essaye said. The PPH has about $400 million in assets and an expense ratio of 0.36%. On the other hand, the concern about the impact of the drugs has caused broad weakness in stocks tied to categories like snack foods. One fund that appears to be getting hit by the trend is Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP) . The XLP has a total return of negative 3.7% year to date. "Because food companies are a large part of Consumer Staples ETFs, their poor performance has negatively impacted the returns of XLP and other consumer staples funds," Essaye said. The XLP has about $15 billion in assets, and an expense ratio of 0.1%. Investors who use dividend focused ETFs could also be at risk could also be getting hurt by the trend, because consumer staples stocks are often dividend payers.
A Boeing 787 'Dreamliner' plane with the logo of tourism giant TUI at Hanover airport in Langenhagen, central Germany.

Shares of Tui were 9.4% higher at 9:17 a.m. London time after the German travel group posted full-year results that showed underlying earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) soared 139%.

Revenue rose 11% to 8.5 billion euros ($9.17 billion), while investors zeroed in on a forecast for EBIT to increase by at least 25% year on year in 2024.

Additional interest was generated by news that the company's board is considering delisting from the London Stock Exchange and upgrading to a prime standard listing in Frankfurt in an effort to simplify its investment profile. It also cited potential "potential benefits to European Union airline ownership and control requirements," along with efficiencies and reduced costs.

The decision will be discussed at Tui's annual general meeting in February, and would require 75% shareholder approval.

The move would represent a significant blow to the U.K. bourse as it seeks to keep and attract new firms and revises its listing rules to increase its attractiveness.
MBABANE - Irreconcilable and personal reasons have resulted in Cebile Shongwe, popularly known as Cece, to withdraw her membership from PUDEMO.

The Peoples United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) is one of the proscribed entities in the country. The former police officer, who left the country at the height of the political unrest, withdrew her membership from PUDEMO through a correspondence she issued yesterday. The correspondence in which Cece announced her decision was forwarded to the partys Johannesburg Secretary, Njabulo Nkwanyana. The letter is titled Withdrawal of my membership from PUDEMO.

Personal

The above subject refers. On condition of personal and irreconcilable reasons, I hereby notify you of my withdrawal from the Peoples Democratic Movement with immediate effect, reads part of Ceces letter of withdrawal. In the letter, she did not detail the reasons for her withdrawal, save to state that it was on condition of personal and irreconcilable reasons.

In conclusion she said: Thank you for offices courtesy while a member. Yours is the struggle Cebile Cece Shongwe (sic). When attempts to reach her were made, she said she did not wish to comment for now, save for what she penned in the letter.

Comment

Sought for comment, PUDEMO Secretary General Panuel Malinga said the organisation had branches to which the members reported. He said so far, nothing had been reported to them by the branch, hence he could not be in a position to comment. Meanwhile, on social media, Cece has been criticising certain elements within the pro-democracy movement, mainly one of the members, whom she accused of having published sensitive stories while she was in the country. After the publication of these stories, she said she felt unsafe, resulting in her migration to South Africa.

She said she hurriedly left Eswatini before she could apply for an international passport. She said she was disappointed, because the member did not give her a meagre E400 on her low days, despite the huge role she had been playing in sharing crucial information with him. Cece complained about the treatment she had been receiving of late. She said there were comrades who had stopped assisting her pay rent. At some point, she warned her followers to run away, very fast, from a person who called himself an investigative journalist. She also complained about womanising comrades. The former police officer said these people were not concerned about the struggle for political reforms, as their concentrations were on women and wine.

Engage

Alpheous Nxumalo, the Government Press Secretary, was recently quoted, having said governments doors were open to engage emaSwati in exile, in talks about forgiveness. He stated that forgiveness would always go via the path of accountability. Nxumalo said repenting emaSwati wishing to return home should be ready to be subjected to a process of full disclosure regarding atrocities committed against their fellow countrymen. These include members of the security forces, who were gunned down in cold blood in broad daylight. After they had been subjected to a full disclosure, he said they could be considered for immunity for their heinous crimes. The spokesperson said Eswatini was a State that was committed to justice and the rule of law. There are no shortcuts to liberation and forgiveness, he said.
C.E.O. of Tesla, C.E.O. of SpaceX and C.T.O. of X Elon Musk speaks during the New York Times annual DealBook summit on November 29, 2023 in New York City.

A former Twitter security chief has filed a lawsuit against X, alleging he was fired after objecting to various cost-cutting measures enacted shortly after Elon Musk bought the company last year.

Attorneys representing Alan Rosa, who was Twitter's global head of security, information technology and privacy, filed a complaint late Tuesday in U.S. district court for New Jersey against X, Musk and Steve Davis, a company advisor who is also the president of Musk's tunneling business, The Boring Company. Musk chose Davis, a trusted lieutenant, along with other close associates to help run the social media firm.

At the time of his employment, Rosa, who was based in New Jersey, was responsible for Twitter's global security and IT team consisting of 500 employees scattered across the U.S.

Similar to other recently filed lawsuits by former Twitter employees, Rosa's suit stems from the massive cost-cutting efforts implemented by Musk in the aftermath of his $44 billion acquisition of the company, which he would later rename X.

Rosa alleged that Davis, under orders from Musk, engaged in a number of cost-cutting measures that the security chief thought would undermine the company's ability to comply with various obligations and regulations like a Federal Trade Commission consent decree and the Digital Services Act (DSA) enacted by the European Commission. The European law requires certain large tech platforms to document and monitor illegal online content or face penalties as much as 6% of annual sales.

Rosa alleged that Davis wanted to stop paying for an "ethical hacking program called 'HackerOne'" and other "vulnerability management software" that the company needed in order to comply with Twitter's FTC Consent Decree, the attorneys wrote.

"Davis, like Musk, was dismissive of the Twitter FTC Consent Decree and began cutting Twitter's products and services that supported and complied with the Twitter FTC Consent Decree," the lawyers wrote.

Davis also directed Rosa to terminate use of Salesforce , which was a problem, according to Rosa, because the software contained data that the company would need to be able to share with law enforcement.

"Plaintiff objected to the direction to shut down Salesforce," the suit said, because doing so would violate the DSA and compromise the company's ability "to properly handle law enforcement inquiries."

Additionally, Rosa alleged that Davis ordered the Twitter security chief to "to cut the physical security budget by an additional 50% by midnight," an action that "was done in hours, not days." Rosa claimed the cuts "posed a substantial danger to public safety."

"The physical building, whose security he had to immediately cut, stored over 800 laptops and other electronic devices that were subject to litigation holds, per Court Orders, which required the Company to ensure that the physical data on the laptops and other electronic devices in the building were preserved and were not removed, destroyed, or altered in any way," the attorneys wrote in the filing.

Rosa alleged that he was fired a few days after voicing his objections and said he was "terminated in an unexplainable fashion as he did nothing wrong that would justify his termination."

Rosa also said X started a "sham investigation" into his workplace conduct in an attempt to "deprive him of his severance package."

Although Rosa entered an arbitration agreement with X, his lawyers say the company has "refused to pay its portion of the arbitration fees" despite an order to do so, leaving Rosa with no choice but to file a complaint.

The lawyers allege X violated several employee-related laws, including the New Jersey Conscientious Employee Protection Act, New York and California labor rules and the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act.

Rosa is seeking relief for unspecified compensatory and punitive damages.

A spokesperson for X didn't respond to a request for comment.

In October, an ex-Twitter software engineer, Yao Yue, filed a lawsuit against the company alleging that it violated the National Labor Relations Act in firing her. Yue claimed to have helped organize colleagues who were concerned about Musk's immediate changes to various work policies.

WATCH: Elon Musk is 'neither' great nor terrible, 'he's human.'
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A Cruise vehicle in San Francisco on Feb. 2, 2022. David Paul Morris | Bloomberg | Getty Images

General Motors' Cruise autonomous vehicle unit has hit an "all time low," said its new leader, while promising to restore trust with regulators and the public after the company pulled all of its vehicles from U.S. roads. "Our integrity, our competency are being questioned and this really hurts," said Mo Elshenawy at an all-staff meeting Tuesday, according to a transcript of the call reviewed by Reuters. "We went from an all-time high to an all-time low and from being an industry leader to temporary pausing all of our operations," he said. A spokesperson for Cruise declined comment. Elshenawy was installed as Cruise president last month after its CEO stepped down following regulatory scrutiny after an October accident in which a San Francisco woman was dragged. He said Cruise's approach to developing self-driving cars that were simply better than humans has been "wrong" and "not what the stakeholders are expecting from us." "We now know that we need to be significantly better than human performance and significantly better across a much wider spectrum of use cases and edge cases," he said.

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Cruise has been under growing pressure after regulators said it failed to fully disclose details of the October accident. Last month, Cruise paused all driverless and supervised car trips in the United States and expanded a safety review of its robotaxis and CEO Kyle Vogt and chief product officer Daniel Kan both stepped down. Elshenawy seemed to acknowledge a difficult path ahead for the self-driving car company that competes with Alphabet's Waymo and Amazon.com's Zoox. "We don't have a deep reservoir of trust with all of our stakeholders and our regulators," he said. "This last week a Cruiser shared with me that they don't wear their Cruise jacket in public anymore," said Elshenawy. "It truly breaks my heart." Cruise could face $1.5 million in fines and additional sanctions over its failure to disclose details surrounding the Oct. 2 accident in which one of its robotaxis dragged a pedestrian after being struck by another vehicle, a California agency said in a letter last week. The California Public Utilities Commission ordered Cruise to appear at a Feb. 6 hearing for "misleading the Commission through omission regarding the extent and seriousness of the accident" and "making misleading public comments regarding its interactions with the commission."

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Goldman Sachs has unveiled its "conviction list" of top stock picks in Europe for December  and London-listed shares of BT Group stand out. The Wall Street bank's analysts see 130% upside potential in London-listed BT Group . They cited the telecom giant's plans to monetize its fiber infrastructure as a significant opportunity to generate sustainable free cash flow improvement. Goldman Sachs expects BT's share price to more than double to 290 pence over the next 12 months. U.K. shares are generally priced in pence, with 100 pence equal to one British pound ($1.26). BT, the U.K.'s largest broadband provider, aims to build and extend its fiber optic network to 25 million homes by the end of 2026. Analysts suggest that BT has historically built its network faster than rivals, but the added advantage of having a large scale means BT can sharply drive down the cost this time around. Goldman believes this massive infrastructure investment is not yet priced into BT's share price. BT.A-GB YTD line However, the investment bank is not alone in its bullish call on the telecom operator. Wall Street rivals Morgan Stanley and JPMorgan also believe BT shares are mispriced as investors have undervalued its network arm, Openreach. "As Openreach executes on its fibre build and the competitive landscape improves, there could be a significant re-rating opportunity," said Morgan Stanley analysts led by Terence Tsui. Their price target of 220 pence implies an additional 71% share price increase over the next year from the current price of around 123 pence. JPMorgan also expects BT shares to rise to 290 pence over the next 12 months. Conviction list Other prominent stocks on Goldman's conviction list include Delivery Hero , Burberry , Bureau Veritas and Philips . The bank says these picks represent its "most differentiated fundamental Buy ideas" across European markets right now. Goldman notes that its conviction list should not be seen as a portfolio, as the stocks are not weighted. But it tries to provide some diversification across sectors and geographies. The bank believes 2023's stock market volatility has created opportunities for active stock picking as indexes remain range-bound. For instance, the Europe Stoxx 600 index has traded between 430 and 470 throughout the year, testing the highs and the lows multiple times. Similarly, the S & P 500 has remained between 3,800 and 4570.  CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report.
An Israeli military tank rolls near the border with the Gaza Strip on December 5, 2023, amid continuing battles between Israel and the militant group Hamas. Menahem Kahana | AFP | Getty Images

Israeli forces battled Hamas militants across Gaza on Wednesday after expanding their ground offensive to its second-largest city, further shrinking the area where Palestinians can seek safety and halting the distribution of vital aid across most of the territory. The assault on the south threatens further mass displacement within the besieged coastal enclave, where the U.N. says some 1.87 million people  over 80% of the population  have already fled their homes. Much of the north, including large parts of Gaza City, has been completely destroyed, and Palestinians fear the rest of Gaza could suffer a similar fate as Israel tries to dismantle Hamas, which has deep roots in the territory it has ruled for 16 years.

Israeli soldiers walk past Palestinians fleeing the north along the Salaheddine road in the Zeitoun district on the southern outskirts of Gaza City on November 28, 2023. Mahmud Hams | AFP | Getty Images

Israel says it can no longer accept a Hamas military presence in Gaza after the Oct. 7 attack that triggered the war, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel will maintain open-ended security control over the territory, something opposed by the United States and much of the international community.

Heaviest fighting yet

The Israeli military said Tuesday that its troops were "in the heart" of the southern city of Khan Younis after what it described as "the most intense day" of fighting since the start of the ground operation five weeks ago, with heavy battles in the north as well. For the past three days, aid distribution  mainly just supplies of flour and water  has been possible only in and around the border city of Rafah, at Gaza's southern edge, because of fighting and road closures by Israeli forces, the U.N.'s humanitarian aid office said.

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The aid group Doctors Without Borders said fuel and medical supplies have reached "critically low levels" at the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the central town of Deir al-Balah, north of Khan Younis. Up to 200 wounded people have been brought in every day since Dec. 1, when a weeklong truce expired, it said. "Without electricity, ventilators would cease to function, blood donations would have to stop, the sterilization of surgical instruments would be impossible," said Marie-Aure Perreaut Revial, the aid group's emergency coordinator in Gaza. She said the hospital is also running desperately low on surgical supplies and external fixators to hold broken bones together.

An injured person is pulled out among the rubble as civil defense team and residents extinguish the fire and conduct a search and rescue operation among the rubbles of the buildings following an Israeli attack in Deir al-Balah, Gaza on December 05, 2023. (Photo by Ashraf Amra/Anadolu via Getty Images) Ashraf Amra | Anadolu | Getty Images

Gaza has been without electricity since early October, and Israel has severely limited fuel imports, forcing several hospitals to shut down because they cannot operate emergency generators. The war has killed more than 16,200 people in Gaza  70% of them women and children  and wounded more than 42,000, according to the territory's Health Ministry, which released new figures late Tuesday. The ministry does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths, but its overall tally tracks with a figure released by the Israeli military this week. The ministry says hundreds more have been killed since the cease-fire ended Friday, and many still are trapped under rubble. The military accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields when the militants operate in residential areas. But Israel has not given detailed accounts of individual strikes, some of which have leveled entire city blocks. Military Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi said militants keep weapons in homes and other buildings so fighters in civilian clothes can use them to fire on troops. "Striking them requires significant use of fire, both to target the enemy but also to, of course, protect our forces," he said Tuesday.

Anger among families of hostages

Israel says it must remove Hamas from power to prevent a repeat of the Oct. 7 attack, when Hamas and other militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took captive some 240 men, women and children after bursting through Israel's vaunted defenses.

JERUSALEM - DECEMBER 04: Protestors led by bereaved families, and families of hostages, rally against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a protest over the October 7th attacks outside The Knesset on December 04, 2023 in Jerusalem. Spencer Platt | Getty Images

More than 100 hostages were released during last week's cease-fire, along with 240 Palestinians imprisoned by Israel. Family members of hostages held a tense meeting with Netanyahu and the war cabinet Tuesday in which some of them shouted at cabinet members, accusing them of having no plan to bring back the rest. Five of the released hostages shared details of their experience during the meeting. One spoke of Hamas fighters "touching" female hostages, and another said militants shaved off a male hostage's body hair to humiliate him, according to a group representing the families.

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A doctor who treated some of the 110 released hostages told The Associated Press separately that at least 10 women and men were sexually assaulted or abused, without providing further details, adding to widespread allegations of rape and other atrocities committed during Hamas' Oct. 7 attack.

No end in sight

Hamas' continuing ability to fight in the north, where Israel entered with overwhelming force weeks ago, signals that eradicating the group without causing further mass casualties and displacement  as Israel's top ally, the U.S., has requested  could prove elusive.

A woman mourns on the coffin of Noa Marciano during her funeral. The body of Marciano, 19, a soldier kidnapped by Hamas in the border area on 07 October, was found in a building near the largest hospital in the city of Gaza. Ilia Yefimovich | Picture Alliance | Getty Images

The military says 88 of its soldiers have been killed in the Gaza offensive. A military official said this week that at least 15,000 Palestinians have been killed, including 5,000 militants, but did not explain how the army arrived at those figures. Even after weeks of bombardment, Hamas' top leader in Gaza, Yehya Sinwar  whose location is unknown  was able to conduct complex cease-fire negotiations and orchestrate the release of scores of hostages last week. Palestinian militants have also kept up their rocket fire into Israel. The war has been an unprecedented catastrophe for Palestinians civilians, eclipsing all four previous wars between Israel and Hamas, and their suffering is set to worsen as the offensive grinds on.

Palestinian civilians flee Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip after the Israeli army called on people to leave certain areas in the city, as battles between Israel and Hamas militants continue on December 3, 2023. Mahmud Hams | Afp | Getty Images
JPMorgan Chase CEO and Chairman Jamie Dimon gestures as he speaks during the U.S. Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee oversight hearing on Wall Street firms, on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., December 6, 2023.

"If I was the government, I'd close it down," he added.

"I've always been deeply opposed to crypto, bitcoin, etc.," the head of the largest U.S. bank by assets said under questioning from Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., during a Senate Banking Committee hearing. "The only true use case for it is criminals, drug traffickers  money laundering, tax avoidance."

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon lashed out at bitcoin and its peers, suggesting in remarks Wednesday on Capitol Hill that cryptocurrencies should be banned.

The remarks are the latest broadside from Dimon against cryptocurrencies, though his bank is heavily involved in blockchain, the enabling technology for the $1.6 trillion industry.

In previous statements, Dimon has called bitcoin "a hyped-up fraud," a comment he later walked back. He had also likened it to a "pet rock."

Under further questioning from Warren, Dimon and several other CEOs of large banks brought before the committee as part of a routine hearing on the industry, agreed that crypto companies should face the same anti-money-laundering regulations as the major financial institutions.

The topic marked a rare note of unity between the banking leaders and Warren, usually a harsh critic of the industry.

"When it comes to banking policy, I am not usually holding hands with the CEOs of multibillion-dollar banks, but this is a matter of national security. Terrorists, drug traffickers and rogue nations should be barred from using crypto for their dangerous activities. It is time for Congress to act," Warren said.

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McDonald's will open the first location of its new spinoff brand CosMc's this week in Bolingbrook, Illinois.

The fast-food giant plans to open 10 CosMc's locations, including nine restaurants in Texas, by the end of 2024 in a test. McDonald's will then spend a year analyzing data to decide whether it will expand the small-format chain.

The name for the new brand comes from CosMc, a McDonaldland mascot that appeared in advertisements in the late 1980s and early 1990s. CosMc is an alien from outer space who craves McDonald's food. The company has leaned more into marketing its mascots after seeing success with the Grimace Birthday Meal earlier this year.

The burger chain first revealed it was creating CosMc's as a spinoff in July, but withheld more details about its plans. Photos of the Bolingbrook location surfaced on X, formerly known as Twitter, earlier this week.

With a menu that includes old favorites such as Egg McMuffins and M&M McFlurries, and new items such as Churro Frappes and pretzel bites, McDonald's is positioning CosMc's as a fast, convenient way to grab a pick-me-up snack or coffee.

"When 3 p.m. hits, and you need a boost, take a trip to CosMc's," a narrator said in a video shown to investors Wednesday.
Former President Donald Trump gives remarks at the South Texas International airport on November 19, 2023 in Edinburg, Texas. Michael Gonzalez | Getty Images

A second Donald Trump administration will take action "criminally or civilly" against people in the media, an ally of the former U.S. president warned. "We will go out and find the conspirators, not just in the government, but in the media, yes, we're going to come after the people in the media, who lied about American citizens, who helped Joe Biden rig the elections, we're going to come after you," Kash Patel said on Steve Bannon's podcast, referring to a potential second Trump leadership. "Whether it's criminally or civilly, we'll figure that out, but yeah, we're putting you all on notice." He added that a new Trump administration would have to "put in all-American patriots top to bottom." Patel previously served as chief advisor to the secretary of defense and as counterterrorism advisor on the National Security Council.

Kash Patel, a former chief of staff to then-acting Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller, speaks during a campaign event for Republican election candidates at the Whiskey Roads Restaurant & Bar on July 31, 2022 in Tucson, Arizona. Brandon Bell | Getty Images

Trump has yet to be confirmed as the 2024 presidential nominee of the Republican party, which embraced him during his first candidacy. The former White House leader faces four separate criminal indictments but enjoys ongoing popularity in the polls. Criminalizing free speech at a government level would bring the U.S. closer to dictatorial policies such as the censorship practiced in Russia since the start of the war in Ukraine. The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to a CNBC request for comment on whether it endorses Patel's views. The Associated Press reported that the Trump campaign had told the news agency that pronouncements "like this have nothing to do" with the group. "The biggest problem we have? The media. The media is fake," Trump said in a separate televised interview with Fox News on Tuesday. "I came up with the term a long time ago, and they won't talk about it." Asked during that same interview whether he would ever use power in a retaliatory manner if re-elected, Trump said, "Except for day one ... I want to close the border, and I want to drill, drill, drill."

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Law enforcement officers head into the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, campus after reports of an active shooter, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Las Vegas. Steve Marcus | Las Vegas Sun | AP

Three people were shot to death and a fourth critically wounded Wednesday in an attack at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas that sent shock waves through a city still scarred by the deaths of 60 people in a 2017 shooting only a few miles away on the famous Strip. The suspected shooter also was found dead. The attack at about 11:45 a.m. sent police swarming onto the campus while students and professors barricaded themselves inside classrooms and dorm rooms. Authorities gave the all-clear about 40 minutes after the first report of an active shooter. Adam Garcia, a university police official, said officers found and "engaged" a suspect, who is now dead. It wasn't immediately clear how the suspect died. Police also didn't immediately release any details about the victims, the suspect or a possible motive.

Police are seen at the scene of a shooting on the UNLV campus on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Las Vegas. Madeline Carter | Tribune News Service | Getty Images

Professor Kevaney Martin took cover under a desk in her classroom, where another faculty member and three students took shelter with her. "It was terrifying, I can't even begin to explain," Matin said. "I was trying to hold it together for my students, and trying not to cry, but the emotions are something I never want to experience again." Martin said she was texting friends and loved ones, hoping to receive word a suspect had been detained. When another professor came to the room and told everyone to evacuate, they joined dozens of others rushing out of the building. Martin had her students pile into her car and drove them off campus.

Police are seen at the scene of a shooting on the UNLV campus on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Las Vegas. Madeline Carter | Tribune News Service | Getty Images

"Once we got away from UNLV, we parked and sat in silence," she said. "Nobody said a word. We were in utter shock." Students and the community were alerted to the emergency by a university post on X that warned: "This is not a test. RUN-HIDE-FIGHT." The university said the shooter was at the Beam Hall, Frank and Estella Building, home of UNLV's Lee Business School, and that police responded to an additional report of shots fired at the nearby student union. Student Matthew Felsenfeld said he and about 12 classmates barricaded their door in a building near the student union.

People leaving University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus with raised hands after reports of a shooting on December 6, 2023. Obtained by Reuters
MOSCOW, RUSSIA - SEPTEMBER 9: (RUSSIA OUT) Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech during the concert marking the City Day on September 9, 2023 in Moscow, Russia. Putin and Moscow's Mayor Sobyanin, who is expected to be re-elected this week took part in the festive events. (Photo by Contributor/Getty Images)

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates  Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Riyadh on Wednesday evening local time, Russian state media said, following a brief trip to Abu Dhabi as he made "working visits" to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.

The trips were his first to the Middle Eastern region since the war in Ukraine began in February 2022.

Both countries are key trading partners for Russia, and have remained neutral in the Ukraine conflict, refusing to adopt Western-led sanctions against the country over its invasion of Ukraine. Putin has made very few journeys outside Russia's borders in recent months, and these visits spotlight the importance of the oil-rich Mideast Gulf Arab states to the Kremlin's international relations.

In Abu Dhabi, Putin met with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan "to review the current state of multifaceted bilateral cooperation and the prospects for further expansion of ties, as well as current international issues, with a focus on the situation in the Middle East," according to a Kremlin readout.

A post from the UAE leader's official X, formerly Twitter, account said: "Today in Abu Dhabi I discussed with President Vladimir Putin the ties between our two nations, and the importance of strengthening dialogue and cooperation to ensure stability and progress. The UAE will continue to support efforts aimed at enabling global growth, prosperity and development for all."

Putin, according to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti, told his Emirati counterpart: "Today, thanks to your position, our relations have reached an unprecedented high level. And we are in constant contact, and our colleagues are constantly working with each other. And indeed, the United Arab Emirates is Russia's main trading partner in the Arab world."

The Russian leader then flew to Riyadh to meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and "discuss bilateral cooperation in trade, economic and investment areas" as well as "exchange views on the regional and international agenda," the Kremlin readout said.

It also said that the two leaders would discuss oil, Israel's war in Gaza, and the situations in Yemen and Syria. It was not immediately clear whether the two would discuss Russia's war in Ukraine.
Two U.S. senators have launched a bipartisan investigation into secretive and powerful private-equity firms' involvement in health care in the nation, demanding documents and information from executives associated with two hospital systems to assess how much profit they have generated through their complex financial arrangements and whether the deals harmed patients and clinicians.

Sheldon Whitehouse, the Rhode Island Democrat who chairs the Senate Budget Committee, and Chuck Grassley, the Iowa Republican who is the committee's ranking member, are spearheading the inquiry. It began in March when Grassley requested information from private-equity giant Apollo Global Management, owner of Ottumwa Regional Health Center, a Lifepoint Health facility in southeast Iowa where a male nurse assaulted at least nine sedated patients in 2021 and 2022. The nurse later died from an overdose at the facility.

"When it comes to our nation's hospitals, a business model that prioritizes profits over patient care and safety is unacceptable," Grassley said in a statement. "The shocking events at Ottumwa Regional Health Center prompted me to ask tough questions about how financial maneuvers by private equity and related companies have negatively impacted the resources, and thereby the patient care, at our rural hospitals. I look forward to working with Senator Whitehouse to get answers and ensure that our nation's hospitals provide high-quality health care to the communities and patients they serve."

With Whitehouse joining the investigation, it has expanded to include private-equity deals affecting two hospitals in his home state of Rhode Island. Those transactions involve Prospect Medical Holdings, an operator of 16 safety net hospitals in four states that was owned until recently by a group led by Leonard Green & Partners, a private-equity firm in Los Angeles. Of interest to Senate investigators are deals involving Prospect Medical's ownership of Our Lady of Fatima Hospital in North Providence and Roger Williams Medical Center in Providence, and also facilities in Pennsylvania and California.

"As private equity has moved into health care, we have become increasingly concerned about the associated negative outcomes for patients," Whitehouse said in a statement. "From facility closures to compromised care, it's now a familiar story: Private equity buys out a hospital, saddles it with debt, and then reduces operating costs by cutting services and staff  all while investors pocket millions. Before the dust settles, the private-equity firm sells and leaves town, leaving communities to pick up the pieces."

Over the past decade, private-equity firms like Apollo have spent $1 trillion buying health-care businesses, including hospitals, nursing homes, physician practices and hospital staffing companies. To finance these deals, private-equity owners typically burden the companies they buy with debt, then slash company costs to increase earnings and appeal to potential buyers in a few years.

Academic studies show that private-equity firms' involvement in health care is associated with significant cost increases for patients and payers, such as Medicare. A lower quality of care has also been associated with the firms' investments in health care. A 2021 study of nursing home ownership by academics at New York University, the University of Chicago and the University of Pennsylvania found that death rates were 10% higher at facilities owned by private equity than by other owners, including for-profit companies, while compliance with Medicare standards of care declined. Taxpayer costs rose by 11% at the facilities.

Letters sent by Whitehouse and Grassley to five different parties nod to these problems, noting that ownership of health care entities by private equity "may result in negative outcomes for both frontline medical providers and patients ranging from staffing reductions to wholesale facility closures to substandard medical care." The senators asked for documents and information about the complicated financial arrangements that allowed the firms to extract money from the hospital systems they own. "The American people deserve to understand the potential impact of private-equity firms in the delivery of their health care," the letters state.

The senators seek to shed light on deals involving Lifepoint Health, owner of the Ottumwa Regional facility and more than 60 other mostly rural hospitals nationwide, and its owner Apollo Global Management, a private-equity firm run by Marc Rowan who co-founded the firm in the early 1990s with Leon Black.

Letters have also gone out to Prospect Medical, Leonard Green & Partners and Medical Properties Trust, a real estate investment trust that has been involved in multiple deals with private-equity firms allowing them to sell off hospital real estate holdings for cash.

The companies did not immediately respond to requests for comment about the letters.

The senators want information about a common private-equity practice in which the companies they own take on significant debt, then use the money raised by these debt issues to pay cash to the private-equity firms. These deals enrich the firms but can hobble the companies shouldering the debt.

During the time it owned Prospect, for instance, the Leonard Green group loaded more than $1 billion in debt onto the operation. In 2018, the group received a cash payment of $457 million from Prospect even though the company generated a net loss of more than $240 million that year and reported unfunded pension liabilities of $260 million, according to a lawsuit filed against Prospect last month by Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha.

His suit aims to enforce conditions of a 2021 agreement that allowed Leonard Green to sell its stake back to Prospect only if certain financial requirements were met. Among them were requirements that Prospect "provide for a full a financial commitment to the Rhode Island hospitals that covers operational and capital expenses for the next five years." In his suit, Neronha contends those conditions have not been met.

Other complex financial deals that allow private-equity firms to drain cash from the companies they buy are also under scrutiny in the Senate investigation. These arrangements include the sales of real estate on which these companies' hospitals stand, enriching the private-equity owners who receive cash from the sales but saddling the hospitals with higher rent costs, potentially imperiling their future operations.

Private-equity deals are often shrouded in secrecy. Because the companies owned by these firms are private, there is less information about their operations than is available from public companies. The way the deals are structured often obscures private-equity ownership and protects the firms from liabilities associated with practices at the companies they own.

The new information request to Rowan at Apollo Global Management reiterates questions asked of his firm by Grassley last March, which Grassley and Whitehouse said in their letter to Rowan have not been answered. "The limited information and documents that have been provided to date have given rise to additional questions and concerns about financial transactions impacting Ottumwa Regional Health Center and the people of Iowa," the letter to Rowan stated. Instead of answering Grassley's questions, the letter continued, "Apollo has continued to hide behind Lifepoint." Apollo "has an obligation to provide full and complete responses to the committee," the letter stated.

In their letter to Lifepoint, the senators asked for an internal document prepared for the special committee of its board that appears to have identified deficiencies "that may have contributed to the shocking events against patients at Ottumwa."

The senators' letters seem designed to connect arcane financial engineering by private-equity firms with declining health care quality or access in the United States. The Senate Budget Committee has broad authority to investigate "matters that affect the content or determination of amounts included in or excluded from the congressional budget or the calculation of such amounts," the letters explained.

"Access to quality health care is not a partisan issue," one of the letters noted, adding that the Budget Committee is "performing an objective and independent review of the impacts that private-equity ownership has had on quality of care and hospital operations."
Hong Kong: InnoHK summit held

The InnoHK Summit 2023 was held at the Science Park today, attracting over 800 world-class academics, scientists, representatives of renowned institutes and industry leaders from Hong Kong and around the world.

Organised by the Innovation & Technology Commission and the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation, the summit themed From Collaborative Research to Real World Impact aims to showcase the latest innovation and technology (I&T) developments and breakthroughs of InnoHK, Hong Kong's leading role as a global research collaboration hub, and its strengths in commercialisation and talent development.

In his welcome video, Chief Executive John Lee said the InnoHK initiative strives to build a global network of mutual learning and advancement, and the summit is testimony to the importance attached by the Government to international collaboration for knowledge advancement, addressing global issues and transforming scientific findings into innovations that benefit humankind.

He encouraged the summit's participants to draw on the spirit of collaboration, and make lasting connections that would lead to more scientific breakthroughs and innovations in Hong Kong.

Speaking at the forum, Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Prof Sun Dong said that Hong Kong has always been an open cosmopolitan city with a diverse community, and remains the only place in the world where global connectivity and the China advantage come together.

With staunch support from the motherland's National 14th Five-Year Plan, and the opportunities brought by the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Hong Kong is well positioned for I&T development, he added.

Prof Sun highlighted that the Chief Executive had announced the establishment of a new InnoHK research centre focusing on generative artificial intelligence (AI) in his newly released Policy Address and the preparation for the establishment of the third InnoHK research cluster focusing on advanced manufacturing, materials, energy and sustainable development would commence next year.

The summit invited representatives from 28 research laboratories of two InnoHK clusters - Health@InnoHK, focusing on healthcare technologies, and AIR@InnoHK, focusing on AI and robotics technologies - to present their latest breakthroughs resulting from their collaborative research.

There were also three panel discussions covering life sciences' research and development (R&D), AI and commercialisation of R&D outcomes.

InnoHK is a major I&T initiative of the Government to develop the city as a hub for global research collaboration. Two research clusters, Health@InnoHK and AIR@InnoHK, have been set up at the Science Park.

InnoHK involves seven local universities and research institutions as well as over 30 top-notch institutions from 11 economies, pooling together about 2,500 researchers locally and from all over the world.

This story has been published on: 2023-12-06. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Lao president meets with senior Chinese military official

Xinhua) 13:15, December 06, 2023

VIENTIANE, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee and Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith met with He Weidong, vice chairman of China's Central Military Commission, here on Tuesday.

Thongloun said the Laos-China friendship is unbreakable, and thanked China's long-term support for and assistance to the Lao party, government and military.

Noting that Laos is a supporter, practitioner and beneficiary of the Belt and Road Initiative, Thongloun said projects including the Laos-China railway have injected important vitality into Lao's economic and social development.

Facing the complex and changing international landscape, it is hoped that the two militaries will strengthen communication and coordination, and continue deepening practical cooperation in various fields, he said.

For his part, He said China and Laos are linked by mountains and rivers, and are friendly socialist neighbors with a shared future. Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of both parties and countries, the development of relations between the two militaries maintains a good momentum.

He said China stands ready to work together with Laos to deepen exchanges at all levels, improve the quality and effectiveness of joint exercises, strengthen border defense exchanges, so as to push the development of bilateral military relations to a higher level and jointly safeguard regional peace and stability.

He also met with Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Chansamone Chanyalath on Tuesday and exchanged views on relations between the two countries and militaries, and international and regional situation.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
MBABANE - Suspects implicated in the leakage of the Form V examination papers are likely to face jail time of 10 years or a fine of E50 000.

The suspects can also be sentenced to both. This is according to the Examinations Council of Eswatini (ECESWA) Act, 2023. More than three teachers and at least eight pupils from a certain school, are said to be responsible for the leakage of the Eswatini General Certificate of Secondary Education (EGCSE) exam papers, which were shared via social media. The teachers are said to have confessed to leaking the papers, whereby examination questions and/or topics were scribbled on a piece of paper before being shared with a distributor. The teachers are said to have worked with eight to 10 people to distribute the exam papers to pupils, which they allegedly sold for E300, others for E400. The leaked papers were Mathematics Paper III and IV, Physical Science Paper II and IV, SiSwati Paper III and Religious Education Paper I and II. Pupils had to resit the papers in an examination that was concluded on Thursday last week.

According to the Act, any person who gains access to examination materials and unlawfully reveals the contents, whether orally, in writing or by any other means to unauthorised persons, sits for examination with the intention to impersonate, or offer, or attempts to impersonate a registered candidate and also influences or attempts to influence another person to sit an examination with the intension to impersonate a registered candidate, will be liable to the aforementioned fine or sentencing upon conviction by a court of law.

Certificate

The Act also states that any person who presents a forged certificate which bears the seal of the council or utters falsified information to a prospective employer or to an educational or training institution to gain admission or any other advantage not lawfully due and prints, publishes, delivers, receives or sells a certificate which bears the seal of the council without the authority of the council, commits an offence and shall be liable to the aforementioned penalties. The Act explained that an established Malpractice Committee shall preside over all matters of dishonesty and malpractice duly referred to it by council and shall be constituted as and when necessary. According to the Act, the committee shall consist of members of the council, who will include the attorney general (AG) or a representative, who shall be the chairperson, the director of education and training, director of the National Curriculum Centre, the principal secretary in the Ministry of Finance or a representative and the registrar who shall be the secretary.

The Act states that the council shall be informed by the Director Examinations Administration and Result Processing through the office of the registrar in all matters that relate to malpractice. It was reported that the head of centre shall be informed within five working days of any suspected case of malpractice. The head of centre would also be responsible for the formal investigation of the suspected case of malpractice and duly notify the persons to be investigated in writing of the ongoing investigations. The director examinations, administration and result processing shall, upon the completion of its investigation submit a report to the registrar for lodging before the council. The council shall upon receipt of the investigation report defer the matter to the Malpractice Committee and the committee shall after hearing the case, present its findings and recommendation to the council for the determination of appropriate sanctions, reads the Act in part.

Conclude

Adding, the Act highlighted that the council may conclude the case by four steps, which include, nullifying the results and cancellation of certificate in case of candidates, disqualifying schools or candidates; refer case to the ministry for disciplinary action where a teacher is involved; and report to the police where there is a criminal element involved. The Act went on to state that the council shall also conclude all cases of malpractice within 21 days from the date they are lodged by the registrar. They also explained that there shall be a committee, known as the Appeals Tribunal, appointed by the minister and the tribunal shall consist of three persons, being a lawyer with at least five years admittance to the bar of Eswatini, a retired educator with education from a recognised tertiary institution and a representative of a faculty of education from a recognised tertiary institution.

Sittings

The Appeals Tribunal, shall, in any of its sittings, elect one of their members, to be chairperson, may co-opt for assistance, on ad-hoc basis, any other person who has expertise in a particular field, as they may consider necessary, shall regulate its own procedures; and members shall be paid such allowances as the minister may determine, reads the Act in part.

The Act mentioned that any person, who is aggrieved by a decision of the council, may within 21 days after the person is notified of the decision of council, appeal to the tribunal.

The Act highlighted that the appeal shall be in writing and clearly state the grounds of appeal and the tribunal shall take oral or written evidence on oath. In every proceeding before the tribunal, the appellant and the council may call evidence and may be given an opportunity to be heard either in person or by a person duly authorised by the appellant or the council.

Where the appellant or the council or both, fail to appear before the tribunal at the time and place appointed, the tribunal may, upon proof of service of the notice of the hearing, proceed to determine the appeal, unless good cause for non-appearance is shown, reads the Act in part.

Furthermore, it was mentioned that the tribunal shall hear and determine an appeal within 21 days from the date; the appeal is filed with the tribunal. They concluded that the decision of the tribunal shall have the effect and be enforceable as if it were decision of a court. An appellant who is aggrieved by a decision of the tribunal may, within 21 days after that person is notified of the decision, take the matter to the High Court for review, reads the Act in part.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko told a Swiss media outlet that he agreed with a recent assessment made by the Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valery Zaluzhny that the war had "reached a stalemate."

Mayor of Kyiv Vitali Klitschko holds the remains of a Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missile at an exhibition showing the remains of missiles and drones that Russia used to attack Kyiv, on May 12, 2023, in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Zaluzhny told The Economist magazine last month that the conflict had "reached a stalemate" and a "deep and beautiful breakthrough" looked increasingly unlikely. The comments reportedly caused controversy between the military chief and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who disputed the characterization of the state of the war.

Speaking to Swiss publication 20 Minuten over the weekend, Kyiv Mayor Klitschko said Zaluzhny had "told the truth."

"Some may not want to hear the truth [but] we can't lie to our people and partners indefinitely," he said.

Klitschko also criticized Zelenskyy, saying the president's popularity had declined because "people see who is effective and who is not. And there were and are many expectations. Zelenskyy is paying for the mistakes he made," he said.

When asked what mistakes Zelenskyy had made, Klitschko said Ukraine had not been prepared for the war.

"People wonder why we weren't better prepared for this war. Why Zelenskyy denied until the end that it would happen. Or why it was possible that the Russians were able to reach Kyiv so quickly," he said.

Despite the criticism, Klitschko said the president "has an important function today and we must support him until the end of the war. But at the end of this war, every politician will pay for his successes or failures."

The criticism of Zelenskyy comes amid questions about the 2024 election in Ukraine. The president and his advisors have rebuffed the notion of holding a vote when the war is ongoing (and elections are prohibited during times of war in Ukraine) but Kyiv wants to burnish its democratic credentials as it looks to join Western blocs, such as the EU.

 Holly Ellyatt
Gas prices at a Shell gas station in Washington, DC, US, on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023.

U.S. crude declined 4% on Wednesday, closing at the lowest level since late June with retail gasoline prices hitting the lowest point since January just ahead of the holiday shopping and travel season.

The West Texas Intermediate contract for January fell $2.94, or 4.07%, to settle at $69.38 a barrel, while the Brent contract for February declined $2.90, or 3.76%, to settle at $74.30 a barrel.

U.S. crude and the global benchmark have fallen for five straight days, despite efforts by OPEC+ to boost prices by promising to slash supply in the first quarter of 2024.

Prices at the pump in the U.S., meanwhile, have followed oil prices lower to hit $3.22 a gallon on average as of Wednesday, the lowest price since Jan. 3, according to AAA.

Oil prices have been on a steep downward trajectory from September highs as nations outside OPEC+, particularly the U.S., pump crude at a breakneck clip and worries grow about the Chinese economy.

Moody's on Tuesday downgraded its outlook for China's government credit rating to negative from stable.

Crude did spike for a period in mid-October when the Israel-Hamas war broke out, but traders have largely dismissed the risk of a broader regional war that could disrupt supplies since then.

Meanwhile, U.S. data on Wednesday sent a mixed picture on demand with crude inventories falling while gasoline stocks rose.

U.S. crude inventories fell by 4.6 million barrels for the week ending Dec. 1 but gasoline inventories rose by 5.4 million barrels, according to the Energy Information Agency.

Oil traders have also been skeptical that OPEC+, which includes OPEC members and its allies like Russia, will deliver on supply cuts of 2.2 million bpd in the first quarter next year.

Several OPEC+ members announced the voluntary cuts last week after the group failed to reach a unanimous agreement on production targets.

Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak sought to assure the market this week that they could extend or even deepen the promised cuts.

Tamas Varga, an analyst with PVM Oil Associates, said those reassurances have "fallen to deaf ears."
Ambulances used to transport patients from Gaza via the Rafah crossing are seen on November 22, 2023 in Arish, Egypt.

The current conflict in Gaza should provide a wake-up call to politicians in Washington, D.C, according to a former Egyptian foreign minister, who questioned the U.S. role in the region and the wider world.

The United States has been very vocal about the latest Israel-Hamas war, with President Joe Biden saying he will continue to support Israel's campaign against the Palestinian militant group.

It comes amid heavy international criticism of Israel's bombardment of the territory following the Oct. 7 terror attacks by Hamas, which were also widely condemned.

Former Egyptian Foreign Affairs Minister Nabil Fahmy told CNBC that the U.S. is "losing a tremendous amount of credibility in the Arab world."

The "U.S. needs to take a serious look at its role. If it wants to support a stable world order based on rule of law, it has to demand everybody respect international law, whether friend or foe," Fahmy, who served as minister between 2013 and 2014, said in an interview.

A White House spokesperson told CNBC that "Israel has the right to defend itself in compliance with international law, including international humanitarian law, especially as Hamas terrorists have said that what happened on October 7th 'will happen again and again and again' until Israel is annihilated."

The Hamas-run health ministry says over 15,800 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since the attacks on southern Israel that killed some 1,200 people.
Canadian mining giant Cameco Corp. is poised to play a pivotal role in U.S. plans to dramatically expand its nuclear power capacity, which will depend on a secure source of uranium amid rising geopolitical tensions. Nuclear power took a back seat for the past decade, especially in the West. Instead, governments and investors focused their energy efforts away from burning fossil fuels and toward a reliance on expanding renewables in the push to transition to a net-zero carbon emission economy by mid century. But there is growing recognition now that nuclear is a crucial complement to renewables, providing clean, reliable electricity when wind and solar are not available due to weather conditions. With the climate crisis growing more urgent, the U.S and a coalition of more than 20, predominantly Western nations pledged to triple nuclear power capacity by 2050 at the U.N. Climate Change Summit in Dubai last weekend. The U.S.-led coalition's ambitious nuclear energy goals come as China is already building or planning dozens of new reactors, potentially triggering a race to secure tightening global uranium supplies. Russia and India also have plans to dramatically expand nuclear. The world's uranium reserves are concentrated in just a handful of nations, several of which, such as Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, face rising geopolitical risks. Other leading uranium miners are state-owned companies controlled by China and Russia. Enter Canada-based Cameco, which runs the largest uranium mine in the world at Cigar Lake in the remote northern reaches of Saskatchewan. Cigar Lake produces 14% of the world's uranium, according to the World Nuclear Association . Altogether, Cameco accounts for up to 20% of global uranium production, according to RBC Capital Markets. Cameco stock has more than doubled in 2023, fueled by soaring uranium prices, and adding more than $10 billion to its market capitalization which now stands at some $20 billion. CCJ YTD mountain Cameco shares have more than doubled in 2023. RBC still sees 10% upside in Cameco shares, carrying a stock price target of $50.59 against Tuesday's close of $45.72. Cameco's earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization could more than double by 2035, according to RBC. "In an increasingly polarized world, we believe Cameco will be a safe, reliable partner, without the geopolitical strings attached to state-backed competitors," RBC analyst Andrew Wong wrote in a November note, describing the mine as a "nuclear champion for the energy transition" Kazakh dominance Western nations confront a precarious world when it comes to uranium supplies. Kazakhstan, for example, produces 43% of the world's uranium, according to the World Nuclear Association. A former Soviet republic landlocked between China and Russia, there are concerns about how to get uranium out of the country, said Jonathan Hinze, president of UxC, a nuclear industry market researcher. Kazakhstan was wracked by civil unrest, leading to a state of emergency and a Russian-led military intervention in early 2022. Moscow itself produces about 5% of the world's uranium but plays an outsize role in the U.S. market. U.S. uranium production peaked in 1980 and the country now relies on imports to meet domestic demand. While Canada is the largest source, the U.S. imports 12% of its uranium from Russia and 36% from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan combined. Some members of Congress are trying to ban uranium imports from Russia in the wake of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, which would remove an important source of U.S. supply. Russia also accounts for 40% of the world's uranium enrichment capacity. Russian dependence The West needs to move away from its dependence on Russia and enhance its own enrichment capacity, according to RBC. That will require significantly more uranium, which could lift Western demand by as much as 15% through the late 2020s, according to RBC. Although Cameco does not currently have enrichment capacity, it owns a 49% stake in Global Laser Enrichment , which uses laser technology that promises cheaper, more efficient enrichment. Global Laser Enrichment's facility in Paducah, Kentucky could start production as early as 2028, according to RBC. Cameco also now owns 49% of Westinghouse Electric Co. after an acquisition closed last month . Brookfield Renewable Partners owns the other 51%. Westinghouse is the creator of a third-generation nuclear reactor, the AP1000, that has significant growth potential, according to RBC. "Over the next decade, we imagine a realistic scenario with Cameco further expanding across the nuclear sector to become a Western-aligned full-service nuclear company," Wong, the RBC analyst, wrote. Soaring uranium prices Cameco CEO Timothy Gitzel told analysts during the company's third quarter earnings call that interest in nuclear energy is at a level not seen in half a century, while the uranium "supply picture is more uncertain than ever," challenged by rising demand and depleted mines. "Compared to previous price cycles, the market does not have the inventory or secondary supplies to absorb market shocks," Gitzel said. As a result, uranium spot prices have surged 68% this year to $81 a pound in late November from $48 in January, according to UxC. The Sprott Physical Uranium Trust has surged more than 71% for the year, while the VanEck Uranium+Nuclear Energy ETF has jumped about 34%. Cameco has slashed its uranium production guidance for the year due to equipment issues, a shortage of skilled personnel, and supply chain issues, according to September update from the company. Production at Cigar Lake was slashed to 16.3 million pounds of uranium concentrate, down from 18 million previously forecast. Production at its McArthur River and Key Lake operations has been cut to 14 million pounds, down from 15 million pounds previously. But high uranium prices could support a 60% rise in Cameco's production by 2030, according to RBC. Arkady Gevorkyan, an analyst with Citibank, wrote in October that an "unprecedented incremental rise in geopolitical risks" is creating speculative activity that is pushing uranium prices higher. "We don't expect these risks to subside anytime soon and, with time, perhaps even intensify," Gevorkyan wrote. Uranium prices might even exceed RBC's 2-3-year forecast of $75-$95 per pound, Wong wrote. A move to $100 a pound would spark still more investor interest in mining companies looking to develop projects, Hinze at UxC said. For its part, Cameco argues that the future has never been brighter for uranium, and the nuclear fuel cycle. "We are experiencing the industry's best ever market fundamentals," Gitzel, the CEO, said in late October.
(L-R) Brian Moynihan, Chairman and CEO of Bank of America; Jamie Dimon, Chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Chase; and Jane Fraser, CEO of Citigroup; testify during a Senate Banking Committee hearing at the Hart Senate Office Building on December 06, 2023 in Washington, DC.

Wall Street CEOs on Wednesday pushed back against proposed regulations aimed at raising the levels of capital they'll need to hold against future risks.

In prepared remarks and responses to lawmakers' questions during an annual Senate oversight hearing, the CEOs of eight banks sought to raise alarms over the impact of the changes. In July, U.S. regulators unveiled a sweeping set of higher standards governing banks known as the Basel 3 endgame.

"The rule would have predictable and harmful outcomes to the economy, markets, business of all sizes and American households," JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon told lawmakers.

If unchanged, the regulations would raise capital requirements on the largest banks by about 25%, Dimon claimed.

The heads of America's largest banks, including JPMorgan, Bank of America and Goldman Sachs , are seeking to dull the impact of the new rules, which would affect all U.S. banks with at least $100 billion in assets and take until 2028 to be fully phased in. Raising the cost of capital would likely hurt the industry's profitability and growth prospects.

It would also likely help nonbank players including Apollo and Blackstone , which have gained market share in areas banks have receded from because of stricter regulations, including loans for mergers, buyouts and highly indebted corporations.

While all the major banks can comply with the rules as currently constructed, it wouldn't be without losers and winners, the CEOs testified.

Those who could be unintentionally harmed by the regulations include small business owners, mortgage customers, pensions and other investors, as well as rural and low-income customers, according to Dimon and the other executives.

"Mortgages and small business loans will be more expensive and harder to access, particularly for low- to moderate-income borrowers," Dimon said. "Savings for retirement or college will yield lower returns as costs rise for asset managers, money-market funds and pension funds."

With the rise in the cost of capital, government infrastructure projects will be more expensive to finance, making new hospitals, bridges and roads even costlier, Dimon added. Corporate clients will need to pay more to hedge the price of commodities, resulting in higher consumer costs, he said.

The changes would "increase the cost of borrowing for farmers in rural communities," Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser said. "It could impact them in terms of their mortgages, it could impact their credit cards. It could also importantly impact their cost of any borrowing that they do."

Finally, the CEOs warned that by heightening oversight on banks, regulators would push yet more financial activity to nonbank players  sometimes referred to as shadow banks  leaving regulators blind to those risks.

The tone of lawmakers' questioning during the three-hour hearing mostly hewed to partisan lines, with Democrats more skeptical of the executives and Republicans inquiring about potential harms to everyday Americans.

Sen. Sherrod Brown, an Ohio Democrat, opened the event by lambasting banks' lobbying efforts against the Basel 3 endgame.

"You're going to say that cracking down on Wall Street is going to hurt working families, you're really going to claim that?" said Brown, who chairs the Senate Banking Committee. "The economic devastation of 2008 is what hurt working families, the uncertainty and the turmoil from the failure of Silicon Valley Bank hurt working families."
Every weekday the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer holds a Morning Meeting livestream at 10:20 a.m. ET. Here's a recap of Wednesday's key moments. 1. U.S. equities edged up in midmorning trading Wednesday after two-straight days of declines, with the S & P 500 gaining 0.15%. Bond yields, meanwhile, pulled back slightly, with that of the 10-year Treasury hovering just above 4.1%. The drop comes amid growing evidence the U.S. labor market is loosening, a sign the Federal Reserve's interest-rate hikes have cooled an overheated economy. U.S. private payrolls rose by 103,000 last month, according to the ADP National Employment Report, well below forecasts for a 130,000 increase. The report also showed that wage gains are slowing. Elsewhere, oil prices tumbled by more than 2% Wednesday, with West Texas Intermediate crude falling to around $70 a barrel. 2. The CEO of Club holding Starbucks (SBUX), Laxman Narasimhan, warned Tuesday that the recovery in China is "perhaps half the rate of what you would expect it to be." But he emphasized that the long-term outlook is very strong. China is Starbucks' second-largest market by stores and revenue, after the U.S. So, investors concerns about China could explain why the stock has traded down for 12-straight sessions. Jim Cramer said Wednesday that he would still be a buyer of Starbucks stock at current levels, but warned: "I'm in a wakeup-call mode." He added: "I was lulled into thinking China was coming back" in full force. Shares of Starbucks were up 0.6% Wednesday morning, at around $96 apiece. 3. Jim is set to interview Amazon (AMZN) CEO Andy Jassy later Wednesday, with the company's international efforts in focus. Some investors have questioned whether the Club holding's spending on Prime Video is worth the investment. What's Amazon's strategy? And, crucially, can artificial intelligence help accelerate revenue growth at cloud unit Amazon Web Services? Bernstein on Tuesday named Amazon its "best idea" in the internet space for 2024, citing acceleration in its cloud business, cost discipline, digital advertising growth, and its continued leadership in ecommerce  a call with which we fully agree. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long SBUX, AMZN. 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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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates  Thousands of miles from the U.N.'s climate summit in the Middle East, the world's largest iceberg is on the move for the first time in more than 35 years. Scientists believe the juggernaut's breakaway from Antarctica was a natural occurrence, but say it provides a stark reminder of the potentially disastrous implications as global sea levels rise. The iceberg, known as A23a, is estimated to cover an expanse of almost 4,000 square kilometers (1,500 square miles), making it roughly three times the size of New York City. Satellites have been closely tracking the iceberg's movements from space after it recently broke free from the White Continent for the first time since 1986. Robbie Mallett, a sea ice scientist and honorary research fellow at the University of College London, says there are a few reasons why A23a has captured people's imagination. "One is that this iceberg is absolutely massive," Mallett told CNBC at the COP28 climate conference in the United Arab Emirates. "It is the world's biggest iceberg currently; it took that title back recently. And it is kind of a metaphor for how massive the cryosphere is, how big Antarctica is," he continued. "It's just astonishingly big and it's a reminder of how much risk we're at from sea level rise."

Map shows path of Iceberg A23a as it breaks away from Antarctica. NASA

The iceberg, which reportedly weighs nearly one trillion metric tons, has been seen freely drifting beyond Antarctic waters toward the Southern Ocean. It is expected to be swept to an area known as "iceberg alley," putting it on a common iceberg trajectory toward the mountainous island of South Georgia. The breakaway of A23a is thought to have been part of a natural "carving" process, but Mallet said icebergs are breaking off ice shelves at an increasing rate due to the climate crisis. "Antarctica has historically been quite a small contributor to sea level rise, but it is growing, and it is taking up a bigger and bigger share of the sea level rise that we see every year," he added. "So, it's a symbol of the growing dominance of Antarctica in the sea level rise equation."

'Risk category number one'

On the first day of the U.N.'s annual climate conference last week, the World Meteorological Organization warned that a "deafening cacophony" of climate-fueled records was putting humanity at risk of losing the race to rein in sea level rise. Its findings came shortly after a separate report said that if countries don't quickly plan for steep emission cuts, global temperatures could rise by as much as 2.5 to 2.9 degrees Celsius (4.5 to 5.2 degrees Fahrenheit). That's almost twice the 1.5-degree level that the U.N. says is considered the "upper limit" to avoid the worst of what the climate crisis has in store.

The Arctic and the Antarctic seem very far away [from COP28], so if this huge iceberg can do one thing, it is to remind us that there are big systems out there and our future is intrinsically linked to that. Gail Whiteman Professor of sustainability at the University of Exeter

"It has been clearly shown that Antarctic glacier melting has been speeding up and that is one of tipping points we have to follow," Petteri Taalas, secretary-general of the WMO, told CNBC in Dubai. "For me, my risk category number one is how quickly the Antarctic glacier melts," Taalas said. At COP28, policymakers from nearly 200 countries are seeking to reach an agreement that can keep global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. This temperature threshold is widely recognized as crucial because so-called tipping points become more likely beyond this level. Tipping points are thresholds at which small changes can lead to dramatic shifts in Earth's entire life support system.

An event banner outside the Al Wasl dome in the Green Zone ahead of the COP28 climate conference at Expo City in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023. More than 70,000 politicians, diplomats, campaigners, financiers and business leaders will fly to Dubai to talk about arresting the world's slide toward environmental catastrophe. Photographer: Hollie Adams/Bloomberg via Getty Images Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images

A major study published in the journal Science last year identified 16 tipping points, with several identified in the polar regions. The study's authors cited West Antarctic ice sheet collapse as one of the tipping points that could be triggered if global warming reaches 1.5 degrees Celsius. The world has already warmed by around 1.1 degrees Celsius, scientists say, after over a century of burning fossil fuels as well as unequal and unsustainable energy and land use.

'The poles will determine the state of humanity'

Gail Whiteman, professor of sustainability at the University of Exeter, told CNBC at COP28 that the world's largest iceberg breaking off from Antarctica serves as "a physical reminder that what happens in the poles doesn't stay there." "Now, everybody is worried about this huge iceberg and where is it going to go  it's game on, so to speak," she added. "The Antarctic used to be seen as this sleeping giant, nothing was happening. It was just big and really cold  that's my non-scientific way of saying it. And now it's clear based on the sea ice that it is actually destabilizing."

On November 27, 2023, a break in the swirling cloud cover allowed a glimpse of the Earth's largest iceberg drifting past the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. Courtesy: NASA Modis
Elon Musk, chief executive officer of Tesla Inc., during a fireside discussion on artificial intelligence risks with Rishi Sunak, UK prime minister, not pictured, in London, UK, on Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023.

Tesla faces a growing revolt in Scandinavia after Danish dockworkers joined a sympathy strike with Swedish mechanics, heaping pressure on the electric vehicle giant to grant collective bargaining rights to employees.

Members of Swedish trade union IF Metall have been at loggerheads with Tesla for six weeks, and have garnered support via a secondary strike action from fellow workers across a range of industries in Sweden, including postal workers, painters, dockworkers and electricians.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk bemoaned the blockage of license plate deliveries by postal workers as "insane" and late last month filed lawsuits against both the Swedish Transport Agency and the postal service.

After Swedish dockworkers blocked the reception of Tesla cars into the country, there had been speculation that the company would seek to deliver cars to Danish ports and transport them by truck across to Sweden.

However, IF Metall requested support from Denmark's largest trade union, which on Tuesday announced a sympathy strike.

Jan Villadsen, chair of Denmark's 3F Transport union, said Tuesday that IF Metall and Swedish workers are "fighting an incredibly important battle" and therefore have his union's full support.

"Just like companies, the trade union movement is global in the fight to protect workers. With the sympathy strike, we are now stepping in to put further pressure on Tesla," Villadsen said in a statement.

"Of course, we hope that they come to the negotiating table as soon as possible and sign a collective agreement."
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 5)  Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner believes the recent agreement between the government and communist rebels to resume peace talks will finally lead to peace.

Right now we believe na yung ginawang joint statement (made) is really moving towards lasting peace, Brawner told CNN Philippines The Source on Tuesday.

This was his response when asked about Vice President Sara Duterte opposing the Marcos administrations decision to grant amnesty to current and former members of rebel groups, as well as resume peace talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).

Duterte described the joint communique between the government and the said group an agreement with the devil.

Brawner said he cannot blame the vice president for opposing the move, saying this is also the sentiment of others including some soldiers given what transpired during previous talks.

Still, he maintained that the joint communique of the government and the NDFP will possibly lead to peace since it has no preconditions like ceasefire and release of political prisoners. He also highlighted both parties' mention in the statement of their committment to end armed conflict.

The parties acknowledge the deep-rooted socio-economic and political grievances and agree to come up with a framework that sets the priorities for the peace negotiation with the aim of achieving the relevant socioeconomic and political reforms towards a just and lasting peace," said the communique signed on Nov. 23 in the Norwegian capital Oslo.

"The parties agree to a principled and peaceful resolution of the armed conflict," it added.

Brawner noted the government will only know that the rebels are sincere once the NDFP signs the final peace agreement.

Following the release of the joint statement, a framework agreement should follow, ending with the signing of the final peace agreement, he said.

For now, Brawner said the AFP will continue its operations to neutralize rebels.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 5)  The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) admits it will be hard for the government to make Chinese militia vessels leave the countrys waters due to lack of water assets compared with the East Asian giant.

Physically to disperse them is near to impossible. Kokonti lang yung barko natin (We only have a few ships), AFP chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner told CNN Philippines The Source on Tuesday.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that over 135 Chinese maritime militia vessels were spotted around the Julian Felipe Reef on Dec. 2. These were monitored around the low-tide elevation of the Kalayaan Island Group located 175 nautical miles west of Bataraza, Palawan, still within the countrys 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela told CNN Philippines on Monday these vessels are possibly being used for Beijings reclamation activities and for blocking Manilas resupply missions.

Brawner said they also believe the Chinese ships are conducting illegal activities in the area.

While the Philippines lacks in water assets, Brawner said what the government tries to do is getting the consensus of the international community.

We combine together with our like-minded nations to ensure that we impose the rules-based international order on China and other countries who are doing illegal activities. Sana makinig naman sila (I hope they listen), he said.

Brawner said the Philippines is already planning its multilateral joint maritime and air patrol exercise in the West Philippine Sea. Possible participants are the US, Australia, Japan, France, United Kingdom, and Canada.

This will possibly happen in the first half of 2024, he added.
The global construction industry needs to adapt by prioritising the orientation of future buildings and promoting the retrofitting of existing assets to reduce emissions. This was a consensus made by leaders and high-profile speakers at Big 5 Global Leaders Summit, held on December 5 alongside the 44th edition of Big 5 Global in Dubai.

During the opening of the summit, Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Former Minister of Climate Change & Environment in the UAE. called for the industry to evaluate its impact on the environment, said the organisers dmg events.

Addressing a global audience of delegates comprising government officials, industry thought leaders, experts and innovators, Dr Al Nuaimi stressed that with growing public awareness the industry must adopt bold objectives to combat emissions and make the industry more sustainable.

Also speaking at the summit, Engineer Maryam Al Muhairi, CEO of the Buildings Regulation & Permits Agency at Dubai Municipality, highlighted an incremental surge in the adoption of cutting-edge construction systems and innovative building technologies poised to significantly reduce energy consumption in buildings.

In addition to insightful dialogues and discussions taking shape on the second day of the event, Big 5 Global also saw a major deal being signed between Bauer Maschinen, part of the Germany-based foundation engineering giant, Bauer Group and Kuwait-based Al Nouf Real Estate Company, a Laala Al Kuwait Group of Company.

As part of the deal, Al Nouf Real Estate has expanded its fleet with the addition of a Bauer MC 96 duty-cycle crane.

During the handover ceremony, Shahram Houshmandfard, Managing Director at Bauer Equipment Gulf said: "We are thrilled to have signed this remarkable deal at Big 5 Global. Bauers traditional core competency in specialist foundation engineering has today been expanded to encompass three distinct business segments: Construction, Equipment, and Resources. Bauer machinery and equipment has been a byword for top performance and quality as well as for continuous innovation."

In addition to Houshmandfard, the handover was attended by Mark Dunglison, Director Planning & Design at Al Nouf Real Estate and Hana Neimatallah, Project Director at a Laala Al Kuwait Real Estate Company alongside Rohan Sequeira, Sales Manager at Bauer Equipment Gulf.

The signing of the deal comes at a time when Germany marks a 50% increase in exhibitors from across the construction value chain and as Kuwait returns to the exhibition.

Josine Heijmans, Vice President  Construction at dmg events said: "I believe that in todays dynamic construction landscape, Big 5 Global plays a pivotal role as a catalyst for thought leadership and business transformation. The event not only fosters impactful dialogues from industry leaders, but also converges high-quality, leading-edge products on a global scale."

"This scalability is a testament to the industry's evolution, demonstrating how Big 5 Global effectively accommodate the burgeoning demand for access to pioneering solutions across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia," she stated.

At Big 5 Global the growth of scale and quality goes hand-in-hand with the participation of leading international and local brands from more than 60 countries; and one of these countries is Saudi Arabia, which brings Made in Saudi to the event in addition to other leading companies.

With thousands of Saudi visitors expected to visit the event this week, further boosting trade relations between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Big 5 Global was toured by Bandar bin Ibrahim AlKhorayef, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Saudi Arabia.-TradeArabia News Service
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 7)  For six years now, Finland has been named the happiest country on Earth based on the World Happiness Survey.

Finnish Ambassador to the Philippines Juha Markus Pyykko shared some of the reasons why the European country constantly lands in the happiness index -- and it's not always about having fun or laughing out loud.

"For us, happiness is more like being content with one's life," Pyykko said.

The envoy added that Finland has also set up a so-called infrastructure of happiness, which primarily involves excellent social services that adds to the quality of life of citizens.

"Gloriously a well-functioning society with free high quality education and health care, long life expectancy, limited corruption," the ambassador said.

"Equality, social mobility, freedom, social security, nature, and trust, trust amongst the population and trust towards socialism institutions," he added.

The envoy shared that like Filipinos, Finnish people do not necessarily like paying taxes.

"We don't love taxes in Finland, but we'd love to pay them because we can trust that the tax money is used wisely. We get a lot in return," he said.

"This trust is a kind of a glue in keeping our society together," the envoy added.

Taguig City on Wednesday hosted a celebration of Finland's 106th Independence Day.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6)  The Philippine government is eyeing to reopen its embassy in Helsinki, Finland in hopes to further strengthen bilateral ties with the European country.

The government is now in the final preparations for the resumption of the embassy's operations, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Theresa Lazaro said at the 106th Independence Day Celebration of Finland in Taguig City on Wednesday.

"I am pleased to announce that we are now in the final preparations for the reopening of the Philippine Embassy Helsinki next year," Lazaro said.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the move is part of reciprocating the decision of Finland to reopen its embassy in Manila in 2020.

The Philippine government closed its embassy in Finland in 2012 due to the need to maximize resources and to support embassies and consulates where there are more Filipinos such as in the Middle East.

Lazaro said reopening the Philippine embassy in Finland would "pave the way for more efficient cooperation and engagement between our two countries."

"The past seven decades have seen us grow closer and closer through high level exchanges." she said, "as well as the growing volume of trade and investments between us."
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UAE national carrier Etihad Airways and TAP Air Portugal have entered into a strategic codeshare agreement, enhancing connectivity for passengers of both airlines across various destinations within their respective networks.

This agreement, which came into effect yesterday (December 5), is the latest in Etihads objective to strengthen Abu Dhabis cultural and economic growth by welcoming more guests to enjoy heightened travel benefits and gain cherished experiences.

This partnership will provide Etihads customers with easy, one-stop access to a variety of captivating destinations across the TAP network. These include iconic cities such as Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo in Brazil, as well as San Francisco and Miami in the US.

Additionally, the African resort island of Sao Tome is among the picturesque locations available through this collaboration, and customers can also connect with Madeira, Malaga, Seville, and Valencia in Europe, as well as Marrakech and Dakar in Africa.

The codeshare lets guests streamline their journeys by making a single booking with one check-in process at the start and the added convenience of having their baggage seamlessly transferred to their final destination.

Arik De, Etihads Chief Revenue Officer said: This collaboration provides our guests with convenient one-stop access to 26 of TAPs fantastic leisure and business destinations.

Equally, it expands the choices available to TAP customers travelling from Europe to Abu Dhabi, offering them the opportunity to explore the hospitality and rich culture of our home, and seamlessly connect to a selection of our destinations in the GCC and Seychelles.

Widening our network reach, allowing more guests to visit Abu Dhabi, is an important part of our strategic growth. It allows us to further reinforce Abu Dhabis cultural and economic development, extending a warm welcome to more guests and offering them heightened travel privileges and unforgettable experiences.

TAPs Chief Revenue Officer, Mario Cruz, said: The codeshare agreement between TAP Air Portugal and Etihad adds diversity and quality to the travelling experience that both companies offer their customers.

The destination networks of the two airlines complement each other through this agreement, which is part of TAP's growth and expansion strategy. We are very pleased to have reached this partnership with Etihad."

The agreement follows the start of Etihads non-stop services to Lisbon earlier this year and enables both Etihad and TAP customers to connect to each others network through Frankfurt and London Heathrow.

As well as connecting customers to Etihads network, it will make it even easier to for visitors to come to Abu Dhabi with its enthralling array of attractions, ranging from the architectural masterpiece of the Louvre Abu Dhabi to adrenaline-filled adventures at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.  TradeArabia News Service
Generative artificial intelligence (genAI) tools to assist in the creation, testing and operation of software are expected to be adopted by half of all enterprise software engineers by 2027, according to a new study by Gartner Research.

Today, only about 5% of enterprise software engineers use genAI tools to assist in coding. That number is likely to quickly grow because software demand exceeds most organizations capacity, existing developers are maxed out, they're unable to build features fast enough, and they're less satisfied in their work, the study found.

AI-based code generation products based on large language models (LLMs) such as GitHub Copilot, Replit GhostWriter and Amazon CodeWhisperer, can generate complex suggestions resulting in a significant increase in developer productivity. But, those tools in no way eliminate the need for human software developers and engineers as genAI can still produce errors and is incapable of creating unique code.

That said, within two years, 80% of software engineering organizations are expected to establish platform teams as internal providers of reusable services, components, and tools for application delivery.

According to research firm IDC, the enterprise experimentation with genAI for code creation is second only to its use for text generation.

IDC

Cisco CIO Fletcher Previn has said that one of the places he never expected AI to touch was software development, which he equates to an art form requiring unique creative abilities. ChatGPT, however, has been adept at creating code that addresses corporate data hygiene and security and it can reuse code to build new apps.

A 2022 study by Microsoft showed more than half of all code being checked into GitHub was aided by AI in its development. That number is expected to jump to 80% of all code checked into GitHub within the next five years, according to GitHub CEO Thomas Dohmke.

...Historically there was no way to compress software development timelines, Previn said in an earlier interview. Now, it turns out you can get a significant acceleration in velocity by helping developers with things like Copilot for code readings, code hygiene, security, commenting; its really good at those things.

AI coding assistants are emerging as accelerators, boosting developer productivity and happiness, according to a number of studies. By handling routine tasks, genAI assistants enable developers to focus on higher-value activities, which allows organizations to deliver more features faster with existing teams, according to Gartner.

The AI assistants also boost the ability of citizen developers to quickly create apps to meet ever-changing business needs.

Being able to use AI is currently seen as the most important technical skill, according to IDC.

IDC

Gartner Senior Principal Analyst Philip Walsh said there are three software development areas where Gartner is seeing the impact of generative AI tools:

AI coding assistance.

AI-augmented testing tools.

Design-to-development tools.

AI coding assistance tools function as a plug-in to a developer's integrated development environment and include capabilities such as code completion or suggesting snippets of code to complete whats already been written.

Developers are also using AI-based coding assistants to help them generate unit tests and software documentation. The tools can also be used to highlight a portion of code and then, using a natural chat interface, developers can ask questions to better understand and explain the functionality of what theyre looking at.

We know developers are often working on improving or updating code that they didnt write," Walsh said. "Or maybe the person who developed that code no longer works for the company. Or its a legacy application that not a lot of people have touched in a long time or understand."

Natural language processing embedded in AI-augmented software development allows humans to talk to the underlying LLMs and try out ideas, brainstorm their approaches to coding, and get reminders about a framework that, for example, hasnt been used recently. While its a value thats difficult to quantify, from a qualitative metric, natural language processing bolsters the developer user experience.

According to Forrester Research, enterprise AI initiatives are expected to boost productivity and creative problem-solving by 50% in the next few years. Building on multiple investments over the past decade, generative AI is poised to increase productivity across IT operations. Current projects already cite improvements of up to 40% in software development tasks, Forrester said in a recent report.

Last year, GitHub published a study showing 88% of developers using its Copilot tool felt more productive, were faster in completing tasks, and spent less time searching the internet (77%) for answers.

Theyll feel more productive. Theyll see theyre not content switching as much or looking things up on Stack Overflow or Google as much, Walsh said. Developer sentiment is relatively high among that suite of capabilities that AI coding assistants bring.

On average, within the first year in the market, users accept nearly 30% of code suggestions from GitHub Copilot. Over time, the acceptance rate steadily increased as developers became more familiar with the tool.

Thats an indication that a developer gets used to prompting the tool and gets used to using the tool more efficiently, Walsh said. The flipside of that is 60%, 70%, or 80% of suggestions are not being used. So, having a human in the loop is still absolutely essential here.

While genAI-assisted testing tools, designed to improve an organizations ability to create test data and help create API tests and regression tests, are not new; genAI is simply adding capabilities to existing products.

Finally, AI-augmented design-to-development tools such as Figma help developers translate designs into code faster and create front-end presentation layers for applications.

But problems with genAI persist across the many places where its been deployed. For example, coding errors, hallucinations, and security holes remain ongoing concerns for organizations eyeing the adoption of such tools.

We advise all our clients hallucinations are very much real with these things, but our advice hasnt changed in terms of how to mitigate that risk, Walsh said. You should already have various quality and security scanning tools as part of your overall DevOps workflow, and you should have robust code review practices where a senior engineer reviews anything before its merged.

How good AI-augmentation tools are varies, depending on the complexity and proprietariness of the code. If its a boiler-plate task, such as writing code for an HTTP server using JavaScript, acceptance rates tend to be high; thats because the data used to train the underlying LLM is widely used and available.

Enterprise engineers, however, have found when theyre developing more complex code that relies on proprietary business logic not well represented in publicly available training data, the time savings are not as significant  and the accuracy and performance of the model is not as good, Walsh said.

Even so, in the near to medium term, genAI-enabled software creation tools will increase in accuracy and capabilities, including enabling business users to develop disposable apps for, say, data analysis where enterprise-grade quality isnt necessarily needed.

Those cases will be more of a productivity tool to help them with their work, Walsh said. That will be like the no-code market today. I do see use cases like that on the horizon. Thats much more closer to becoming a reality than fully automated enterprise grade software created by AI.
Whew. Talk about a delicate balancing act.

For seven years now, we've been watching Google walk a tightrope between being the keeper of the Android platform  on a software and ecosystem level  and being one of the companies competing for customers' dollars when it comes to the hardware around that.

It's an awkward position to be in, to say the very least. On the one hand, Google's creating and maintaining software that companies like Samsung and Motorola then use to cook up their own Android-based goodies. On the other hand, Google itself is using that same software to create Pixel products that directly go after that exact same crowd  both on the consumer level and in the world of business.

To make matters even more complicated, Google's going up against a prickly perception problem in trying to get its self-made Pixel devices to break through into the mainstream consciousness. Plain and simple, as we've discussed before, Android as a platform has developed a ridiculous reputation for being about cheap, crappy phones, particularly here in the States.

As anyone who actually pays attention to technology knows, that's an almost comical misperception. Android has no shortage of high-quality, high-end devices, many of which far surpass the iPhone in both price and prowess. But it's a very real perception, even so  and if you really look closely, it's starting to seem like Google might have a very interesting plan for getting around that, at least when it comes to its own Pixel-specific interests.

[Psst: Got a Pixel? Any Pixel? Check out my free Pixel Academy e-course to learn all sorts of hidden tips and tricks for your favorite Pixel phone!]

Let me explain.

The Google Pixel-Android distinction

I won't keep you waiting: Four words in particular seem to reveal an awful lot about Google's game plan for skirting the Android perception issue and making its Pixel products stand out from the pack. And they first caught my eye while I was setting up a review unit of the company's new Pixel 8 Pro flagship phone earlier this fall.

They pop up right after you sign into that latest Pixel model for the first time and get prompted to pull over any apps and settings from your previous phone.

See for yourself:

JR Four important words  in the Pixel 8 Pro's setup screen.

To be clear, the act of restoring data in and of itself is nothing surprising. Android's offered some form manner of that function for ages now. What jumps out here is the specific choice of words used within the first button on that screen  the one that'd traditionally represent the option for restoring your data from any Android device.

"Pixel or Android device." It may seem subtle, but good golly, do those four words do an awful lot of work.

Specifically, that "or" in the middle and the lack of any modifier after it speaks volumes. With this seemingly innocuous phrase, Google is suggesting that the Pixel is not, in fact, an Android device in any traditional sense. You can restore your info from another Pixel  or you can restore from an Android device. If Google had included the word "another" in there, it'd be a different story. But, nope: It's Pixel or Android. Two totally separate categories.

And lest you think this might be an oversight or anomaly of some sort, I dug around and found other recent instances where the same sort of phrasing is now being used. In fact, Google's got an entire guidebook all about how to "switch from an Android to a Pixel phone."

JR A Google guidebook with words that carry ample weight.

Now, don't get me wrong: Google isn't hiding the fact that Pixel phones run Android. You'll see plenty of places where Android is mentioned within the Pixel experience, both on the devices themselves and in the associated marketing materials.

But even so, it's increasingly clear that the company is working to present Pixel phones as something distinct  as their own unique entity and not a part of the platform and brand that so many non-Android users have grown to misunderstand.

And while the impact of those efforts is still relatively small, it seems Google's overall Pixel presentation strategy might be starting to make at least somewhat of a dent. As I've noted numerous times before, Pixel sales have been steadily rising for a while now at the same time that smartphone sales in general have been struggling  which, suffice it to say, is a trend worth noticing:

A June 2023 analysis shows Pixel sales experiencing a hefty 20% year-to-year growth from last summer to this year, while phone sales in general dropped by 11%. Earlier this year, another report indicated a 67% year-to-year growth for Pixels in the first quarter of 2023. Other recent quarters show annual growth for Google as high as 230 or even 380 percent, again all while overall smartphone sales have been slumping. Mind you, the actual sales numbers are still fairly small, with Pixels accounting for a mere 4% or so of the US smartphone market (though apparently now claiming the top spot for phone sales in Japan  go figure!). But much like what we observed with Android itself way back in the day, the trends here speak volumes. And even if the figures are relatively meager for the moment, if those trends continue quarter after quarter, the bigger picture will start to shift before long.

The challenge really seems to revolve largely around the perception of Android and the idea that Android devices are somehow inherently less good than their magical and revolutionary iDevice counterparts (a sentiment artfully reinforced by Apple's ongoing iMessage green-bubble-game silliness, of course).

Go, go, gadget time machine  to this past September:

It's hard not to wonder if the association with the Android brand could ultimately prove to be a limiting factor for both the platform's future and the Pixel's success and if Google would do better to emphasize the Pixel as its own separate alternative  or perhaps to frame it as part of a small and very closely guarded subset of devices that receives some manner of enhanced branding to indicate their exceptional-experience status (Android Silver, anyone?).

And here we are.

As for how much difference these types of distinctions can make, consider this: On a purely anecdotal level, a regular Android Intelligence reader and long-time Intelligence Insider frequently shares anecdotes in our community about his many adventures interacting with The Youths in his role as a teacher. He sees this exact flavor of Android misperception up close and personal and relays stories that are almost shockingly in line with the popular narratives we've been pontificating.

Recently, though, he mentioned talking to a student and being asked a question about his own personal preference for Android over iOS.

"Well, I have a Pixel, and there are a lot of reasons I prefer Pixel to iPhone," he recalled saying.

In response, the teen  who moments earlier had been raving about how much Android sucked and how much better iPhones were  replied: "Well, yeah. Pixels a really good phone."

Whether or not this still-subtle strategy blossoms into a more in-your-face presentation remains to be seen, but it seems safe to say Google is at the very least testing these waters and starting to play around with how far it's willing to push the envelope. And that alone is a pretty significant clue about the way the company's thinking about the future of its Pixel products  and, more broadly, perhaps also the future of Android.

Don't let yourself miss an ounce of Pixel magic. Sign up for my free Pixel Academy e-course to uncover tons of hidden features and time-saving tricks for your favorite Googley gadget.
Bahrain has witnessed vast developments in the tourism sector since the launch of the National Tourism Strategy in 2021, according to Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi.

There has been a 50% rise in tourism facilities in the kingdom over the past two years, Al Sairafi was quoted as saying in the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication.
Legionnaires Disease Update  Director of Public Health and Environmental Agency continue to investigate all potential sources

The Strategic Coordinating Group monitoring Legionnaires Disease met yesterday at No 6 Convent Place.

The meeting was chaired by the Minister for Health and Care, the Hon Gemma Arias-Vasquez, and was attended by the Minister for Civil Contingencies, the Hon Leslie Bruzon.

There have been no further cases identified since the last meeting on Friday afternoon.

The Director of Public Health continues to investigate the potential source of infection, which remains unidentified thus far. The Health Protection team have conducted further interviews with the two recovered cases over the course of the weekend, whilst the Environmental Agency have taken samples of potential sources. Both are actively exploring all possible avenues to identify the source of infection.

Additionally, the GHA have implemented enhanced surveillance at the Primary Care Centre and St Bernards Hospital.

The Director of Public Health, Helen Carter, said: If you have worsening shortness of breath or are concerned about your health, please call 111 for a clinical assessment. Its important to remember that Legionnaires Disease cant be passed from person to person and is circulated by aerosolised droplets of the bacteria, not from drinking water. Please remember to run any taps that havent been opened for more than 7 days for two minutes, and use proper windscreen wash in your vehicles.
For a long time, the biggest sign that your character had made it into the annals of pop culture was the moment they got their own cool promotional glass at a major fast food chain. Every once in a while photos of these glasses will pop up on social media with people wondering why they you don't see them anymore -- is it because today's children are too sensitive to handle such awesomeness? Are Garfield's thought balloons too edgy for those little Gen Z snowflakes? Nah, it's because these things had shocking levels of cadmium and lead paint.

Seriously, these glasses were all over the place for decades. From the Shrek ones in the 2000s ...

To the Disney ones that blew this child away in the '90s ...

To the Garfield ones that still populate the cupboards of millions of mothers and grandmothers across the world ...

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So it's too bad that, in 2010, what was destined to be the last batch of Shrek glasses was found to contain dangerous levels of cadmium, which can damage the liver, kidneys, lungs, bones, nervous system, and permanently lower your IQ (perhaps enough that you'll think Shrek 3 and 4 are better than the first one). The discovery was made by Jennifer Taggart of the Smart Mama Blog who, along with another anonymous tipster, supplied her findings to the Consumer Products Safety Commission. McDonald's insisted that the glasses were safe and that they only recalled 12 million of them "out of an abundance of caution," but an investigation by the feds found that just touching the glasses eight times a day could be "hazardous" for a 6-year-old. It didn't help that the mugs had Shrek's irresistible mug painted on them, so the kids were probably kissing them all day long.

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After the recall, a follow-up investigation into painted character glasses new and old found that they had "up to 1,000 times the federal limit for lead in children's products." These included ones with Disney characters, DC Comics superheroes, Coca-Cola logos, and more. According to an investigation by consumer goods safety advocate Tamara Rubin of the Lead Safe Mama blog (whose work is responsible for the recent flurry of interest in this subject and thus this article), the old Garfield mugs in particular contain more than 1,000 times the currently legal amount of lead in America and about 150 times the amount of cadmium allowed in the state of Washington (there's no federal law about this, yet). That peculiar aftertaste is not lasagna; it's cancer-causing chemicals. Rubin has made even more concerning findings in harmless-looking mugs adorned with the likes of Snoopy, the Smurfs, the Carebears, Popeye, and more -- basically, pretty much every mug an '80s kid was likely to beg their parents for.

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And it's not like the toxic crap stays in the glass -- an UK study found that the metals can leach out and be swallowed. The dumbest part here is that, even before Taggart and Rubin's recent findings, some had been warning about this for over 30 years. In 1977, the Environmental Protection Agency warned that McDonald's painted glasses contained levels of lead well past the legal limit for that era, and McDonald's' response was basically "no they don't." The Garfield mugs were just too important for the company's financial survival, apparently. (The following tweet is screenshotted from Rubin's blog.)

The good news is that there are independent stores out there that sell non-toxic mug replacements for the Garfield glasses at cost, just for the love of Jim Davis, like this one. We recommend hurrying up and stealthily replacing the ones your mom refuses to throw out before Mr. Davis sues all those stores into oblivion.

Follow Maxwell Yezpitelok's heroic effort to read and comment on every '90s Superman comic at Superman86to99.tumblr.com.

Top image: Dreamworks Pictures, McDonald's
Talks resume in Malaga

The Chief Minister Fabian Picardo and Deputy Chief Minister Dr Joseph Garcia were in Malaga today for the resumption of discussions, together with the United Kingdom and Spain.

They were accompanied by Attorney General Michael Llamas.

The formation of continuity Governments of the same political colours returned to office in Gibraltar and in Spain, after general elections in both places, has facilitated the continuation of the discussions from where they left off.

This renewed contact is expected to continue between different parties and at different levels in the days and weeks ahead.
Fort Johnson, LA (71446)

Today

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible late. High 71F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening becoming more widespread overnight. A few storms may be severe. Low 54F. Winds S at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 90%.
Sarah Scoles in Undark:

Despite worries about the ethics and safety of AI, the military is betting big on artificial intelligence. The U.S. Department of Defense has requested $1.8 billion for AI and machine learning in 2024, on top of $1.4 billion for a specific initiative that will use AI to link vehicles, sensors, and people scattered across the world. The U.S. has stated a very active interest in integrating AI across all warfighting functions, said Benjamin Boudreaux, a policy researcher at the RAND Corporation and co-author of a report called Military Applications of Artificial Intelligence: Ethical Concerns in an Uncertain World.

Indeed, the military is so eager for new technology that the landscape is a sort of land grab right now for what types of projects should be funded, Sean Smith, chief engineer at BlueHalo, a defense contractor that sells AI and autonomous systems, wrote in an email to Undark. Other countries, including China, are also investing heavily in military artificial intelligence.

More here.
BALLSTON SPA  The Route 50 Diner in Ballston Spa is expected to reopen, according to Ballston Spa Mayor Frank Rossi, a day after signs were seen on its doors indicating it was seized by the state due to unpaid sales tax.

Rossi said he spoke to a cousin of the family that operates the beloved restaurant who said the issue which led to the closure was resolved. The mayor said the announcement of the diner reopening is an early holiday gift.

I was in contact with the family of the Route 50 Diner ownership today, trying to ensure the best possible outcome for the business, its employees and the community members that have come to rely on the diner over the years, he said. The news of a quick resolution is an early holiday gift to us all, as the outpouring of support and concerns was enormous over the past day.
A 12-foot menorah had its four candles lit on the mainstage to close out Sundays Chanukah on Jay celebration inside Key Hall at Proctors Theatre, Dec. 10, 2023. The event, traditionally held on Jay Street was moved indoors due to inclement weather. Sunday was the fourth day of the Jewish holiday.
The race has evolved since it was first run in 1867, and will experience another significant  if temporary  change in 2024, when the New York Racing Association holds the Belmont at Saratoga Race Course for the first time. NYRA also plans to bring the Belmont to Saratoga again 2025.

The Belmont Stakes annually is one of the most important and prestigious Thoroughbred racing spectacles in North America, much less the New York circuit.

The long-time site of the Belmont Stakes, Belmont Park in Elmont, Nassau County, is in the midst of a massive renovation, including the track surfaces themselves, but also the gigantic grandstand. NYRA has already begun work on the tracks, and the overall project calls for the grandstand to be torn down in the spring of 2024.

That means that by June of next year, Belmont wont be capable of accommodating the 50,000 fans who attend the Belmont each year. So Saratoga becomes the most desirable alternative, since the Spa can handle that kind of crowd, and gives NYRA an extra opportunity to showcase one of the most historic and popular sporting venues in the country.

1: WHAT IS THE BELMONT STAKES?

Its a mile-and-a-half Grade I race run on dirt at Belmont Park and is restricted to 3-year-olds. It offers a prize purse of $1.5 million and serves as the third leg of the Triple Crown, following the Kentucky Derby and Preakness. Only 13 horses have swept all three legs, most recently Justify in 2018 and American Pharoah in 2015.

Because its the longest race in distance in the series, the Belmont is called The Test of the Champion.

The 2024 race will get a purse boost from $1.5 million to $2 million, making it even more attractive for horsemen with top-level 3-year-olds.

2: WHEN WOULD THE RACE BE HELD AT SARATOGA?

The 156th Belmont will be run in 2024 on Saturday, June 8. That would conform with a typical Triple Crown schedule in which the Kentucky Derby is held on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, the Preakness is held two weeks later at Pimlico in Baltimore and the Belmont runs three weeks after that.

The race will be the highlight of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at Saratoga Race Course, which will be held from June 6-9.

A total of 23 stakes worth a total of $9.7 million in purses will be offered during the four days, which will conclude with New York Showcase Day, featuring stakes restricted to New York-breds, on Sunday, June 9. That event is traditionally held at Belmont on Memorial Day.

3: WHAT CHALLENGES ACCOMPANY SHIFTING THE RACE FROM BELMONT TO SARATOGA?

Bringing the Belmont to Saratoga in 2024 would create a new set of challenges for both the local community and the racing community, even if its only for four days of actual racing.

Although the Saratoga summer meet only runs for 40 live racing days from the middle of July to Labor Day, it probably wouldnt be difficult for the facility to accommodate a temporary burst of offseason racing in June, at least from the horsemens standpoint. The Oklahoma Training Track is open for training seven days a week from April to November, and the main track opens for training a week or so before the meet starts in July, so there is a substantial amount of activity at the track even when theres no racing.

There will be some adjustment due to the need to ship horses and backstretch workers that otherwise would have just stayed downstate in June.

Theres also the question of the mile-and-a-half distance of the race. One lap on Saratogas main track is a mile and an eighth, which means that to preserve the Belmont distance, the race would have to start on the grandstand turn. That would create a disadvantage for some horses based on post position, so the Belmont will be scaled back to a mile and a quarter, pending approval by the American Graded Stakes Committee on Dec. 14. Big races like the Travers and Alabama are run at a mile and a quarter at Saratoga.

Staffing other segments of the venue, like food and drink service, ushers, security and mutuel clerks to handle 50,000 fans on a spot basis will present a challenge.

The news from Governor Kathy Hochul on Dec. 6 that the Belmont was coming to Saratoga in 2024 was something of a relief to local hotel managers, who had been in a holding pattern while anticipating a huge influx of out-of-towners, including NYRA employees and TV crews.

The hotels also have loyal customers to account for who bring repeat volume business at that time of year for various conferences in town.

This could all be compounded by the fact that June is a busy time for high school graduations.

4: WHAT WILL SARATOGA SPRINGS AND THE CAPITAL REGION NEED TO DO TO BE READY FOR THE BIG RACE?

June is supposed to be the calm before the storm around here, a time to prepare for the intensity of two months of a racing season. With the Belmont in town, the first full week of June will be a storm unto itself.

That means law enforcement agencies will need to be prepared for an unusually large influx of people looking for a good time. Hotels and restaurants will need to think about how their staffing levels probably should reflect what they use during the meet, if just for a week.

An unprecedented Belmont at Saratoga likely will garner extra national media attention. So Saratoga Springs and the Capital Region will need to be ready for their close-up.

5: HOW BIG OF A CROWD WOULD BE EXPECTED?

NYRA limits paid admission at 50,000 not only for the Belmont Stakes, but for the two biggest attendance days at Saratoga, the Whitney and Travers. NYRA instituted that policy at Belmont two years ago due to the New York Islanders UBS Arena gobbling up half of the backyard. Its reasonable to believe that NYRA will stick to 50,000 for a Belmont at Saratoga, if for no other reason than staffing the grounds, mentioned above, will present challenges.

Additional information and details on hospitality offerings, ticket packages and pricing for the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at Saratoga Race Course will be available in early 2024.

Theres one potential twist that could ratchet up attention by a multiple of who knows how much: A Triple Crown on the line when the Belmont is held at Saratoga. Its worth noting that when American Pharoah ran in the 2015 Travers (having already won the Triple Crown), an estimated crowd of 15,000 showed up just to watch him gallop through a ho-hum workout on the day before the race.

6: WOULD THIS BE THE BELMONT STAKES FIRST TIME AWAY FROM BELMONT?

No. For one thing, the race was around well before the track was. The Belmont began at the now-defunct Jerome Park in the Bronx in 1867 and was run there until 1899 before moving to Morris Park, also in the Bronx, for the next 15 years.

Belmont Park was built in 1905 and has hosted the Belmont Stakes every year since except for 1963-67, when it was moved to Aqueduct while Belmont was rebuilt and expanded to its current 1.25 million square-foot incarnation. The new building will be about a quarter of the size of the old one.
A dermatologist has weighed in on the pricey and over-the-top beauty routine of Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick's daughter Penelope after it went viral.

In the video, which was posted in January but has since resurfaced online, Penelope uses a range of skincare products from Drunk Elephant and Honest Beauty  which included a $72 moisturizer and a $68 face oil. But is it effective?

According to Scottsdale, Arizona-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jeffy, who's a teen skincare expert and founded the Generation Alpha skincare brand BTWN, it's overkill, especially for an 11-year-old.

Dr. Jeffy explained that Penelope doesn't need such an expensive, intensive beauty routine, and that it could actually be incredibly harmful.

According to Arizona-based dermatologist and teen skincare expert Dr. Brooke Jeffy, Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick's daughter Penelope, 11, is using harmful skincare products

Penelope showed off her skincare routine, which included Drunk Elephant's bronzing drops ($38), Honest Beauty moisturizer ($30) and Drunk Elephant's Intensive Hydration Serum ($55)

The video quickly went viral, amassing more than two million views, with plenty of people sharing their own opinions about the young Kardashian daughter's skincare and beauty routine.

'I just died a little,' the dermatologist, who regularly treats young patients, said at the beginning of the video.

'Why does this adorable 11-year-old need makeup and the skincare routine which is more complicated than mine?'

Keeping up with Penelope: How much is the tween's routine? Drunk Elephant's Bronzing Drops: $38

Honest Beauty Moisturizer: $30

Drunk Elephant's Intensive Hydration Serum: $55

Drunk Elephant's Whipped Cream: $72

Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Face Oil: $68

Kosas Revealer Concealer: $30

Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Contour Wand: $42

Dior Rosy Glow Blush: $40

Dior Lip Glow Oil: $40

Shiseido Eyelash Curler: $24 TOTAL: $439 Advertisement

Dr. Jeffy's hundreds of young patients with skin concerns caused by TikTok trends and unnecessary multi-step skincare regimens was the impetus to launch BTWN, an educational, two-step, simplified skincare line for children, tweens and teens.

Dr. Jeffy captioned the video, 'Tween skin deserves gentle care, not a pricey, extensive skincare routine!'

'As a mom and derm, I'm here to spill the tea: harsh chemicals aren't meant for those in-between years,' the doctor continued.

She shared, 'Drunk Elephant products may be fine adult skin but for kiddos, it is definitely not!' before explaining, 'This skincare line is packed with potent ingredients meant for adults, not young skin.'

In Penelope's original video, she showed off her elaborate skincare routine, which included Drunk Elephant's bronzing drops ($38), Honest Beauty moisturizer ($30) Drunk Elephant's Intensive Hydration Serum ($55), Drunk Elephant's Whipped Cream ($72), and Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Face Oil ($68).

The trendy tween then applied Kosas concealer ($30) underneath her eyes with a pink beauty blender.

Penelope went on to use another TikTok favorite product, Charlotte Tilbury's bronzing wand ($42) to contour her cheekbones, forehead and nose, before using an eyelash curler, which appeared to be from Shiseido ($24) and brushed up her eyebrows.

The elementary school student finishes off her face with Dior blush ($40), a bit more contour, and the Dior lip glow oil ($40).

'North West does the same thing too - it's honestly so sad,' one commenter wrote, referencing Penelope's cousin, Kim Kardashian and Kanye West's 10-year-old daughter

Commenters asked why it was a bad thing she had a beauty routine, as others explained it could be quite harmful for her young, sensitive skin

'Why is make up always a bad thing? Make up is supposed to be for fun!' one follower said, as another commenter replied, 'The ingredients are for adult skin... they are powerful products that should not be used on [children's] faces,' citing the inclusion of the powerful anti-aging ingredient retinol as an example.

One mom agreed, 'Thank you! My daughter is 11 and has beautiful skin and she only uses a sensitive moisturizer. No need for all of that at such a young age.'

A commenter pointed out that Penelope isn't the only member of the Kardashian family using an expensive, extensive skincare routine.

'North West does the same thing too - it's honestly so sad,' they wrote, referencing her cousin, Kim Kardashian and Kanye West's 10-year-old daughter.

'Agreed she doesn't need it but I'm sure she watches her mom and family and imitates that,' another wrote.

Dr. Jeffy explained she's 'telling all the moms NOT to buy Drunk Elephant for their tweens,' because 'the products are not designed for young skin'

Moms in the comments agreed that the ingredient list on Drunk Elephant products is too lengthy for tweens

Some people celebrated her using skincare at such a young age, with one person writing, 'I have to disagree the earlier you start skincare the better it is for you I started skincare at 10 I'm 30 and I always get mistaken for 23.'

Dr. Jeffy is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of youth skincare brand BTWN

The dermatologist then made a video clarifying why Drunk Elephant doesn't work for tweens.

Dr. Jeffy explained she's 'telling all the moms NOT to buy Drunk Elephant for their tweens,' because 'the products are not designed for young skin.'

'Kids using highly active products can experience chemical burns and premature acne,' the dermatologist warned in her message.

Moms in the comments agreed, with one saying, 'The lady at drunk elephant kiosk wouldn't sell it to my daughter because she said it's not for her skin type,' and another agreeing, 'This is #1 on my 10yr old's list and reading the ingredients had me shaking my head!'

One person joked, 'Wait I can't even afford Drunk Elephant for me.'

In another viral TikTok, Dr. Jeffy doubled down, 'When it comes to younger skin, Drunk Elephant might not be the fit. Aggressive exfoliants and early retinol? Not the essentials.'
A brutal shoe fetish killer who murdered a 51-year-old mother after tying her up with a pair of stockings and raping her may have - horrifically - found the experience 'tension releasing', a forensic psychiatrist has said.

Speaking on episode two of Incident Room on Channel 5 - airing tonight at 8pm - which looks at the tragic case of Wendy Speakes, Dr Richard Badcock explored what the sadistic acts committed by Christopher Farrow in 1994 could have been motivated by.

The discovery of Mrs Speakes' body at her home in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, on March 15 - 29 years ago - sparked a six-year manhunt.

He was finally caught after advances in fingerprint technology allowed a comparison to be made to the partial print found at the murder scene - after he was arrested for drunk driving years later.

He got a life sentence in November 2000 with a minimum term of 18-years and has had previous parole appeals rejected.

The discovery of Mrs Speakes' body at her home in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, on March 15 - 29 years ago - sparked a six-year manhunt. Pictured in 1993

Dr Badcock told the programme that the murderer was evidently filled with anger when committing the crime.

'There were multiple stabbings, there was a lot of rage involved,' he explained.

'The experience is tension releasing to him. The whole thing was very reminiscent of a displaced state of rage against, not a real life relationship with Wendy, but a displaced relationship from another relationship with a woman.

'That was the primary motivating force behind thethe killing of Wendy.'

The case horrified the nation as it emerged Farrow, then 33, tied receptionist Wendy up with a pair of stockings, forced her to wear blue mule shoes before raping and then stabbing her to death.

The Channel 5 programme showed how this detail gave investigators an insight into the killer's psyche at the time.

'A pair of shoes appeared at the scene which were not Wendy's,' Dr Badcock explained.

'The shoe cupboard had been ransacked, and that suggested quite strongly that the person was a shoe fetishist.

Christopher Farrow, pictured, was finally caught after advances in fingerprint technology allowed a comparison to be made to the partial print found at the murder scene

'The whole point of a fetish is that it's a physical object that you need to be with you when you have a sexual experience in order to achieve full sexual gratification.'

Bob Taylor - retired as Detective Chief Superintendent of West Yorkshire Police, who worked on the case - added: 'Richard Badcock brought me into the word of the shoe fetish.

'He was quite sure that everything in that scene was part of a fantasy killing.'

Dr Badcock also detailed how stalking likely played into the fetish element of the murder, as Bob expressed his view that Farrow was potentially 'stalking numerous people' before settling on Wendy as his victim.

'Stalking in this case is interesting,' the forensic psychiatrist added.

'It has both a sort of practical aspect in that you're identifying a victim, but there was also a degree of sexual gratification to be obtained from stalking.

'You go through a process of following a person or picking a person out and imagining what you could do... if the opportunity presented itself.'

Dr Badcock (pictured) told the programme that the murderer was evidently filled with anger when committing the crime

Bob Taylor - retired as Detective Chief Superintendent of West Yorkshire Police, who worked on the case - also spoke to the programme

Paul Johnston - one of the first detectives from the incident room to visit the crime scene - also remarked on Farrow's chillingly calm nature when interviewed

Mrs Speakes' daughter, Tracey Millington-Jones - pictured - hopes Farrow 'stays in prison and we throw away the key'

Farrow was jailed for life at Leeds Crown Court in November 2000 after pleading guilty to the murder and rape.

Paul Johnston - one of the first detectives from the incident room to visit the crime scene - also remarked on Farrow's chillingly calm nature when interviewed.

'Farrow's never ever explained why he did what he did, why he chose Wendy Speakes, even why he was in Wakefield,' he recounted.

'And I remember thinking you come across as a very placid type of individual, but now that it's undoubtedly you and it's proven to be you, all you can do is say, quote, "Someone was gonna get it that day."'

'He admitted the murder, but still insisted he didn't have a shoe fetish,' Bob continued.

'He explains that his partner was about eight months pregnant and had turned him sex down, so he decided he'd go and he'd rape a woman.'

The case horrified the nation as it emerged Farrow, then 33, tied receptionist Wendy up with a pair of stockings, forced her to wear blue mule shoes before raping and then stabbing her to death. Pictured on the hen night of her daughter Tracey in 1993

Wendy Speakes (right) pictured on the hen night of her daughter Tracey in 1993 - eight months before she was killed

Dr Badcock also said that in Farrow's eyes, the horrific murder was 'something that he'd been forced to do because of the way he'd been treated by other women'.

In 2018, the killer became eligible to apply for parole - he has since had three applications rejected. In 2025, he will be eligible again.

Bob however branded Farrow an 'animal', stressing that he doesn't believe the prisoner should be 'released ever'.

'As a person, I think Farrow is an animal,' he said.

'And this predatory killer takes her life needlessly, just to satisfy his own sexual urges. And destroys a family. Totally destroys a family.

'He has not shown any remorse, I don't think he's fit to be released ever, I don't think a woman is safe from this man.'

Mrs Speakes' daughter, Tracey Millington-Jones, added: 'My mum believed in eye for an eye. I think a lot of people believe in an eye for an eye, especially when it's your loved one thats been murdered in such a horrific way.

'And I was never given that option, so the only option I have is, he stays in prison and we throw away the key, and thats what Ill continue to fight for.'
A woman who spent weeks trying to track down a wildly-popular dress from Kim Kardashian's brand SKIMS has voiced her bitter disappointment over the design - admitting the viral piece left her feeling 'exposed'.

Petra Macias Medrano posted a video to TikTok, in which she revealed she had been wanting to try on the form-fitting dress - which regularly sells out on the SKIMS website thanks to its viral fame - before finally tracking it down in Nordstrom.

After finding the soft lounge long slip dress in the store in the light brown color, the Georgia-based creator tried it on - but unlike many, she wasn't impressed with how the dress from Kim Kardashian's brand fitted her.

Petra found the dress, which retails for $78, to be see through, pointing out she could see her bra color and any under garments she was wearing.

After finally getting her hands on the viral SKIMS dress, content creator Petra Macias Medrano was thrilled - until she tried it on and found it left her feeling 'exposed'

Petra Macias posted the video to TikTok , saying she had been wanting to try on the form-fitting dress and finally tracked it down in Nordstrom

'I don't know how this is flattering on anyone,' she said in the clip, which has been viewed over 33,000 times.

'I feel exposed,' she continued, pointing out that you could see every curve of her body through the fabric, as well as the outline of her bra and her underwear. 'This is not it.'

She then went to see if it would look different in a darker color, insinuating the fabric is quite thin and isn't appropriate to be worn as an outfit on its own.

She then tried the long slip dress with sleeves on in a dark brown, which showed a little less.

'I think I like this dark color a lot more, and I think that's why people are only getting the dark colors,' she observed.

Some users pointed out that the dress wasn't necessarily designed to be worn alone, suggesting that the dress she's seen people out in public may be a different style.

'Thats the soft lounge not the fits everybody!! I got fits everybody today and its legit so slay I promise worth the hype,' one follower commented.

'Well its only supposed to be a lounge dress and not to go out thats why its so skin like!' chimed in another.

She then tried the long slip dress with sleeves on in a dark brown, which showed a little less

Some users pointed out that the dress wasn't necessarily designed to be worn alone, suggesting that the dress she's seen people out in public may be a different style

Followers weighed in on the viral SKIMS dress, with many suggesting she instead try the Fit's Everyone dress

'You have a beautiful body! I love that dark color on you!' gushed one.

Some decisively told her the dress was not a good idea.

'People are lying to you. It looks terrible. I can see your private part in the front,' one woman wrote. 'It looks really bad not trying to hurt your feelings!'

According to the SKIMS website, the dress - which comes in a darker red, brown, black, grey and a black with a white spotted pattern - is designed to 'elevate your loungewear.'

'[The]super soft, drapey slip dress that offers a comfortable, body-hugging fit,' the description read. 'This maxi length features a flattering straight neckline, ribbed fabric, and partially adjustable spaghetti straps.'

Earlier in the year, TikTok user Grace Morris, 21, from Seattle, went viral after sharing a TikTok to hit back at critics who had said she had no curves to her figure - saying the dress made her look as though she had an hourglass shape.

The influencer amazed viewers in the 'Fits Everybody Corded Lace' dress, which costs $84, in the shade petal.
Confucius Institute wins acclaim for cementing China-Ethiopia ties

Xinhua) 13:16, December 06, 2023

Representatives from Addis Ababa University and the Chinese host Tianjin University of Technology and Education (TUTE) shake hands after signing a renewal agreement at a special ceremony marking the Confucius Institute's 10th anniversary in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Dec. 4, 2023. The Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University (AAU) on Monday received acclaim for its 10 years of operation, which helps fortify the deepening ties between China and Ethiopia. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

ADDIS ABABA, Dec. 4 (Xinhua) -- The Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University (AAU) on Monday received acclaim for its 10 years of operation, which helps fortify the deepening ties between China and Ethiopia.

A special ceremony marked the Confucius Institute's 10th anniversary at AAU, attended by senior Ethiopian government officials, Chinese diplomats in Ethiopia, representatives from AAU and the Chinese host Tianjin University of Technology and Education (TUTE), and academia.

Ethiopia's State Minister of Education Kora Tushune emphasized the importance of fostering Sino-Ethiopian cultural and people-to-people ties as a cornerstone for comprehensive cooperation between the two nations.

"Over the past ten years, with the joint efforts of the Addis Ababa University and TUTE, the Confucius Institute at the AAU has made positive contributions to promote the friendship between Ethiopia and China through language education and cultural exchange," he said.

Samuel Kifle, AAU's interim president, congratulated the Confucius Institute at AAU for a decade of dedicated service, highlighting its role as a connecting bridge between the two countries.

The institute's anniversary included the signing of a renewal agreement between the Confucius Institute at AAU and its host university.

Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia Zhao Zhiyuan praised the growth of the Confucius Institute, affirming its contributions to fostering educational and cultural cooperation between China and Ethiopia.

"With the strong support of our two governments and the joint efforts of the two universities, the institute will make even greater contributions to mutual learning between our two civilizations and mutual communication between our two peoples. I believe the institute will usher in an even brighter future full of expectations," the ambassador said.

During the celebration, the launch of a local Chinese language textbook, "Hello, Chinese," was announced, also featuring Chinese-Amharic and Chinese-Afan Oromo language versions.

TUTE Board Chair Zhang Jingang said the Confucius Institute has stayed committed to providing high-quality Chinese teaching services and cultural exchange activities.

The Confucius Institute at AAU, operational in Ethiopia since November 2013, has seen over 10,000 students enroll in Chinese language studies across the country, according to institute data. In December 2016, the Confucius Institute at AAU was awarded the honor of Global Model Confucius Institute and is one of the 45 model Confucius Institutes in the world.

Students from the Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University perform Kung Fu at a special ceremony marking the Confucius Institute's 10th anniversary in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Dec. 4, 2023. The Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University (AAU) on Monday received acclaim for its 10 years of operation, which helps fortify the deepening ties between China and Ethiopia. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

Ethiopian State Minister of Education Kora Tushune speaks at a special ceremony marking the Confucius Institute's 10th anniversary in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Dec. 4, 2023. The Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University (AAU) on Monday received acclaim for its 10 years of operation, which helps fortify the deepening ties between China and Ethiopia. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

Students from the Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University attend a special ceremony marking the Confucius Institute's 10th anniversary in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Dec. 4, 2023. The Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University (AAU) on Monday received acclaim for its 10 years of operation, which helps fortify the deepening ties between China and Ethiopia. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

Students from the Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University perform at a special ceremony marking the Confucius Institute's 10th anniversary in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Dec. 4, 2023. The Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University (AAU) on Monday received acclaim for its 10 years of operation, which helps fortify the deepening ties between China and Ethiopia. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
An Australian mum said she was fired for yawning in a meeting when she was pregnant.

The woman was exhausted from 'navigating' her first trimester and working for a digital marketing agency when she let out an innocent yawn in a meeting with a client.

The person thought the mum-to-be must have been 'bored' by them so dropped the agency immediately and left a nasty Google review.

Dozens online couldn't believe the reaction to the mum's yawning and said the company 'dodged a bullet' by not having to work with a 'genuinely unkind and unforgiving' client.

'Did you know we got fired by a client for yawning in a client meeting once?' Cherie, CEO of The Digital Picnic wrote in a post on LinkedIn.

A woman said a client fired her marketing agency after she yawned in a meeting. The mum was exhausted from navigating the early stages of pregnancy (stock image)

She said the 'yawn criminal' was her studio manager who was in the early stages of pregnancy back in 2018.

'You know the one where nobody knows you're pregnant, but you're fighting to stay awake at work beyond 3pm because your ENTIRE BODY is making another ENTIRE BODY?' Cherie said.

When the studio manager let out a yawn the client responded saying: 'I'm clearly boring to you'.

They subsequently fired the agency and wrote a 'pretty nasty' Google review which they have since deleted.

'We're kinda sad this person removed said Google review, because we actually always enjoyed going back to it and reminding ourselves what we'll never allow into our client portfolio again,' Cherie said.

The agency's CEO said her studio manager was the 'yawn criminal' and in her first trimester 'when you're fighting to stay awake at work beyond 3pm' (stock image)

'And that always comes down to values, and value misalignments, and - in this instance - just a genuinely unkind (and unforgiving) kind of soul.'

Cherie said she enjoys looking at her negative Google reviews as a reminder of how far her business has come.

'From (over)servicing people who went on to fire us for ONE YAWN, to a full paid ads portfolio of absolutely outstanding human beings who forgive us for our humanity (e.g yawning when our brains are temporarily starved of oxygen),' she said.

Users were shocked by the story and shared their own instances of getting fired or reprimanded for small things.

'I got fired from a client once too. They didn't like my advice that eight people on Teams interviews with my shortlisted candidates was too much,' one woman said.

'It looked like the Brady Bunch intro but even more unnerving. Sounds like we both dodged a bullet.'

'The other day I was at my hair salon, and apparently they got a complaint and negative google review from a customer who was upset that her hairdresser wasn't wearing makeup. She thought it was unprofessional,' a second recalled.

'I find it sad that some companies expect everyone to be perfectly bright eyed and bushy tailed 110 per cent of the time. Robots work that way. Not humans,' another wrote.

'I once got in big trouble for doodling and drawing around my notes during a presentation. It was the only thing that could keep my brain switched on and my body awake,' someone else added.

'On reflection it was probably less about a lack-of-respect (that's not me at all), and more about the quality of the presentation.'
Queen Camilla paid a glittering tribute to her mother-in-law Queen Elizabeth II this evening, by wearing a tiara long thought to be Her late Majesty's favourite.

Camilla, 76, accompanied King Charles, 75, and the Prince and Princess of Wales to the annual Diplomatic Reception at Buckingham Palace in London.

Looking effortlessly elegant in a cream embroidered evening gown by Fiona Clark, the Queen added a sentimental touch by wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara.

The stunning diadem, worn by the late Queen in her accession photographs, was first gifted to Princess Victoria Mary of Teck to mark her wedding to George V in 1893.

Her late Majesty was known to be incredibly fond of the headpiece, and affectionately called it 'Granny's Tiara'.

Queen Camilla (pictured left) stunned in a cream embroidered evening gown by Fiona Clark at the Diplomatic Reception at Buckingham Palace this evening

It takes its name from the committee of women who raised money to create it. Made of diamonds set in silver and gold, it was topped by 14 pearls but they were replaced with 13 brilliant-cut diamonds.

It is thought to have been one of Her Majestys favourites, as she was often seen wearing it, and is even pictured wearing it on some bank notes.

Camilla is the third queen to have worn the tiara, which was a wedding present in 1893 for Queen Mary, who passed it on to her granddaughter, the future Queen Elizabeth II, when she married in 1947.

Queen Camilla first sported the sparkling headpiece in October 2023 when joining the King at the City of London banquet.

For tonight's outing, Camilla further added a touch of sentiment with The Queen Mother's diamond brooch and the late Queen's diamond bracelet.

Adding to the look, Camilla opted for simple yet sophisticated makeup, complete with a classic nude lip colour. The royal wore her blonde dresses in blow-out curls - her typical yet stylish look.

The white-tie event is held every year and sees more than 500 members of the Diplomatic Corps hosted in the palace's state rooms.

Royal women traditionally wear tiaras and other jewellery pieces for the occasion - a highlight of the royal calendar in the run-up to Christmas - and royal watchers were not disappointed.

Looking effortlessly elegant in a cream embroidered evening gown by Fiona Clark, the Queen added a sentimental touch by wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara. Pictured, Queen Elizabeth II in 2004, wearing the tiara

The Queen added a sentimental touch with a Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara with a diamond brooch which belonged to the late Queen Mother and a diamond bracelet which belonged to the late Queen

The diplomatic reception is usually held every December, but there was a pause in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid pandemic. The reception traditionally includes a buffet supper and dancing.

Elsewhere, the Princess of Wales looked as radiant as ever as she attended the reception this evening.

Accompanied by King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the Prince of Wales, Kate, 41, took centre stage in a rose gold Jenny Packham 'Georgia' gown costing approximately 5,000, which was embellished with sequins.

Kate paired the stunning ballgown, which she has previously worn to attend the wedding reception of Crown Prince Hussein of Jordan and Princess Rajwa in June 2023, with a Dame Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order sash.

To add to the glamour, Kate sported the Cambridge Lover's Knot Tiara. The dazzling diamond and pearl tiara was once owned by Prince William's mother Princess Diana.

The tiara, which Kate's mother-in-law said was so heavy it gave her headaches, was kept in a safe at Buckingham Palace after Princess Diana's 1997 death before it was handed to William's wife.

It was made by Royal jewellers Garrard in 1914 to Queen Mary's personal design, from pearls and diamonds already in her family's possession.

Queen Mary had commissioned it to replicate her grandmother, Princess Augusta, Duchess of Cambridges, early 1800s Cambridge Lover's Knot Tiara, according to jewellery historian and novelist Josie Goodbody.

This evening's royal show of unity will be seen as a sign of solitary following the furore of Omid Scobies new book on the monarchy after it emerged that a Dutch-language version contained the names of two family members accused by the Duchess of Sussex of unconscious bias.

The Princess of Wales put on a dashing display in a gold Jenny Packham 'Georgia' gown costing approximately 5,000, which was embellished with sequins at an evening reception for members of the Diplomatic Corps at Buckingham Palace in London

Kate looked naturally charismatic as she entertained Diplomatic Corps at tonight's glamorous event

The royal mother-of-three opted for a glamorous makeup look for tonight's event, complete with smokey eyeshadow

The Princess sported her favourite Cambridge Lover's Knot Tiara, which was a wedding gift to Princess Diana

The book claimed Prince Harry's wife Meghan, 42, had named the King himself as well as his daughter-in-law, Kate, 41, in letters she wrote to him on the issue.

Buckingham Palace has not commented publicly, but aides have made clear that the King and his senior advisors are considering all options open to them over the unsubstantiated claims, including the possibility of legal action.

They have, however, been comforted by the sympathetic public reaction they have received to revelations in the poorly-reviewed book and may decide to let that speak for itself.

Tonights event saw the King, his heir and their wives greet the great and good of the Diplomatic Corps - Ambassadors, High Commissioners and the like officially registered to the Court of St James - for pre-Christmas drinks in the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace.

As Head of State, The King plays a vital role in UK diplomacy, supporting the work of the Foreign Office at home and abroad.

The event will also have been the first time the King has been able to talk personally to his son and daughter-in-law since the latest row around the Duke and Duchess of Sussex broke.

Sources have told the Mail that the family will be in no rush to make their carefully considered decision about how to progress.

Earlier in the day they were also out and about in force on a series of engagements.

William surprised shoppers when he was spotted selling copies of the The Big Issue at a Tesco in Hammersmith, west London.

The prince was reunited with magazine seller Dave, whom he has met on several previous occasions, even exchanging Christmas cards.

Vendor Dave Martin told Mail Online: 'William came down in the morning and helped me sell some magazines. He is a very nice man.

Prince William looked genuinely pleased to greet guests at the reception this evening

Look of love! Kate was all smiles as she attended the glitzy event with her husband Prince William

'Helping me sell the magazines was a kind gesture. It's very good that he's helping the homeless. You can tell he does it because he cares.'

Meanwhile his wife met a little girl whose space-themed designs for a new childrens day surgery unit were inspired by her late father, who she says has now gone to the stars.

The princess chatted to Ella Moth, nine, who won a competition to design the artwork for the new unit at the Evelina Childrens Hospital in London.

She took her inspiration from the tragic death of her father, Piers, who died of brain cancer in 2021.

The Princess, who is patron of Evelina London, asked Ella: How does it feel to have your design on the wall for other children to enjoy, being an inspiration for loads of other kids? Ella replied: I didnt think it would ever happen!

The new facility, which cost 55million to build, allows children to be treated in one location on the same day, reducing the stress caused by numerous hospital visits.

In the recovery area she met Saya Stephenson, four, who was resting in bed after an operation that morning to remove excess skin for her ears.

The Princess hugged her mother, Miwa Stephenson, who said she had been anxious about the surgery despite it being a relatively minor procedure.

Kate replied: Its always a worry though for a parent. We have to keep our cool. Its so hard.

Evelinas Chief executive Gubby Ayida said: With everything happening with the NHS at the moment, including long backlogs, the Princesss visit has brought a feel-good factor to every room she visited and to all the staff.
Designer Marc Jacobs has come under fire for subjecting both his models and a pack of dogs to extremely high winds during a shoot.

The brand took to Instagram on Tuesday to give fans a behind-the-scenes look at the high-fashion ad campaign that was shot and directed by Paris-based artist Yulya Shadrinsky.

The footage posted on the official Marc Jacobs account shows two blonde models battling the ferocious wind while walking seven dogs on an undisclosed beach.

The gusts whip through their hair as they struggle to make it even a few steps without toppling over.

Designer Marc Jacobs was slammed for having models in platform heels walk dogs on a beach in extremely high winds

The brand took to Instagram on Tuesday to give fans a behind-the-scenes look at the high-fashion ad campaign

The footage posted on the official Marc Jacobs account shows two blonde models battling the ferocious wind while walking seven dogs on an undisclosed beach

One of the models can barely walk in the sky-high platforms she is wearing, but she is laughing as she reaches out for help with her free hand.

The other blonde grabs her hand to stabilize her, but she ends up falling over into the sand anyway.

'The St. Marc Top Handle in Limoncello. Shot and directed by @shadrinsky,' the video's caption reads.

The video has been viewed more than 587,000 times, but critics were more concerned about the well-being of the models and dogs than the handbag that was being advertised.

'This is abuse to both dogs and humans,' one person responded.

'What's the point of this campaign? Make everybody uncomfortable?' someone else asked.

'This is one of the worst advertisements for a handbag I've ever seen. Leave the dogs out of it,' another added.

However, some argued that the dogs were perfectly comfortable with the windy conditions because of their specific breed.

One of the models can barely walk in the sky-high platforms she is wearing, but she is laughing as she reaches out for help with her free hand

The other blonde grabs her hand to stabilize her, but she ends up falling over into the sand anyway

The fashion designer is pictured at the Center Gala in May 2023

The video has been viewed more than 587,000 times, but critics were more concerned about the well-being of the models and dogs than the handbag that was being advertised

The dogs in question appear to be Afghan hounds, which have long, thick coats to protect them from the harsh climate in the mountainous region they originated.

'Oh and yes people love to create drama again OMG. These girls probably had a good laugh and got well [paid] for this job,' one person commented.

'And like any dog these Afghan hounds love to be outdoors. This is a very ancient breed and a hunting dog from Afghanistan [that] used to live and perform under very harsh conditions.

'So I am pretty sure they can handle this "abuse" as some call it. WOW certain people really deserve an Oscar for drama...'

Whether or not the dogs were comfortable was beside the point for some critics who felt the shoot was 'ridiculously unnecessary.'

'Dangerous. The model may have snapped her ankles. @shadrinsky and @marcjacobs, this is poor practice,' one person insisted.

Another added: 'Its giving America's Next Top Model with their ridiculous antics'

'This is just pure stupidly. Im so glad to be out of the s***show that is fashion,' someone else shared.

However, Bianka, one of the Marc Jacobs models, defended the shoot in the comments amid the backlash, saying there was nothing abusive about it.

'This photoshoot was fun and we had very good time and we love the dogs and the dogs were very happy to play outside,' she wrote. 'Stop being miserable and enjoy life, sometimes it's windy and muddy, [but] you can still enjoy. Peace.'
An Australian worker has revealed the top career regrets she has from her 20s - and warned others against making the same mistakes.

Kim James, 30, who works in the tech industry, has shared her tips for employees entering the workforce and what they should know before accepting a role.

The professional often shares advice from her career - including how to spot red flags in managers.

Ms James shared that her 'biggest regret' was becoming a people manager too young, followed by 'waiting' for jobs to get better, being anxious about calling in sick, and not knowing a job's success metrics.

'Your 20s are about you and your development - not developing others,' she said in a video, referring to the core duty of a manager.

Career advice for your 20s Don't become a manager - focus on your own growth and development Don't stay in a job waiting for it to get better, you need to always be learning or growing Take sick days when you're ill and put your health before your job Ask about clear success metrics for a role during the interview process Research compensation based on market rates and don't settle for less Advertisement

Ms James also regrets staying in a role and waiting for it to get better because she just ended up stagnant for that point in time.

'If you're not learning or growing, go somewhere you will,' she advised.

Lots of Australians feel guilty about calling in sick because they're worried about 'betraying' their team - but Ms James claimed it was essential to move past the guilt.

'Honestly, if you got hit by a bus tomorrow, they'd still be able to figure it out - so if you have a cold, you can take that sick day,' she said.

Ms James claimed it was important to discuss success metrics during the interview stage.

'I'd never again take on a role without clear success metrics because you cannot negotiate your salary without knowing what success looks like,' she explained.

The last piece of advice was to research compensation based on similar roles on the market and make sure you're not settling for less than you deserve.

'I spent too many years just taking exactly what the company told me and not doing my own compensation preparation,' Ms James said.
Martin Lewis has revealed how millions of people in the UK could be owed thousands in refunds and bereavement payments.

The money saving expert, 51, discussed reclaiming money in yesterday's episode of ITV's The Martin Lewis Money Show Live from Manchester.

He shared tips on how to get cash back from overpaid student loans, bereavement payments and re-claiming PPI.

At the beginning of the show, Martin explained: 'For anyone who has graduated or left uni in the past 10 or 15 years you could be one of millions who have overpaid student loans and could very easily get your money back.

'If you have lost your partner since 2001 and you weren't married there is a rapidly approaching deadline to claim bereavement support which could be worth tens of thousands of pounds.

He added: 'Is PPI reclaiming back? If you've had a loan, credit card or other debt in the past 10 years the doors to reclaiming may be open.'

Martin Lewis said millions of Britons could be owed thousands in refunds and bereavement payments in yesterday's episode of ITV's The Martin Lewis Money Show Live from Manchester

Overpaid student loans

The Student Loans Company, the government-owned organisation which manages student loans and grants to UK students, revealed to Martin that more than a million people overpaid in the 2022-23 tax year.

Reasons why you might have overpaid on your student loan: 1. You are on the wrong payment plan -If your employer doesn't know which plan you are on they will assume plan 1 2. Repaid the loan when you didn't earn enough to repay the loan -You only need to repay if you earn over the annual threshold 3. Money is deducted after a loan is fully repaid -Loan is usually wiped after 30 years but some continue paying Advertisement

That's on top of the millions who overpaid in previous years, and there is no limit to how far back you can claim.

Martin said: 'There are likely millions of people who are owed money.

'I did a video about this which went viral on social media so we've had an enormous number of successes.

'This is easy to do. Many people need the cash flow, and there's lots of people for whom taking back the overpayment doesn't impact what you pay in future, so get the money in your pocket.'

He explained that student loans work differently to normal loans, because they are wiped after a set amount of time and only 20 per cent of people who started university between 2012 and 2022 are likely to pay their loan off in full before the cut-off.

He said: 'Normally when I talk about loans I'd normally suggest you pay off as much as you can so you owe it for the minimum amount of time, so you pay less interest.

'Student loans don't work like normal loans, they work more like a graduate tax.

'Only a quarter of people on plan 2 are likely to clear it before they wipe the debt after 30 years. Most people will just be paying 9 per cent above the threshold for 30 years and then it's wiped.

Martin shared tips on how to get cash back by looking at overpaid student loans

'In that case, if you've overpaid and you take it back, it doesn't have any impact on what you pay later, so it's absolute cash in your pocket. You may as well take it back and it also helps your cash flow.'

In order to claim, Martin advised people to collect their old payslips, payroll numbers and PAYE reference numbers.

He revealed you can then get in touch with the Student Loans Company through a new online form to tell them you think you've overpaid.

However, if you don't have any of the documents Martin said it is still worth getting in touch with them, although it might slow the process down.

Bereavement payments

On the show, Martin also urged bereaved parents to check if they can claim benefits before an upcoming deadline of February 8 next year.

Earlier this year, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) changed the eligibility rules for Bereavement Support Payments and Widowed Parents Allowance.

Previously, these benefits were only available to married couples and those in civil partnerships, but now couples who were living together and have dependent children are also eligible.

Martin said: 'This is urgent and it's for people whose partner has died since 2001. In February 2023, the court ruled that unmarried couples are due bereavement help as well - yet, backdated claims must be made by 8 February next year. It is not long away, it is urgent because this is not simple.'

He explained how unmarried couples are only eligible for the backdated payments if they had children, and were under state pension age when their partner died.

'What I mean by that is, you have to be eligible for Child Benefit - so that's a child under 16, or a child under 20, in full-time education - at the time of your partner's death.

'You don't have to be claiming it, so if you're a higher rate taxpayer, that doesn't matter. You have to be eligible for it.

'This is for people under state pension age when their partner died, and when their partner died, you must have been married - not for backdated claims, but for claims now - and that includes civil partnership or cohabiting and living as married

Martin also urged bereaved parents to check if they can claim benefits before an upcoming deadline of February 8 next year

'So if you separated from your partner, even if you had children when they died, I'm afraid you don't count. If you're unmarried, you must have been under state pension age on August 30, 2018.'

Martin revealed that because it is an old benefit, people will have to apply by post after downloading the form from gov.uk or the bereavement service helpline.

He added: 'If you are unsure, there is no punishment for applying and being rejected, it's not a fraudulent claim, put a claim in, and they were happy for me to say that.'

If your partner died within the last 21 months and you didn't have children, you may be eligible to claim a lower amount of Bereavement Support Payment worth 4,300.

In order to qualify for Bereavement Support Payment, your partner must have either paid National Insurance contributions for at least 25 weeks in one tax year since April 6, 1975, or died because of an accident at work or a disease caused by work.

Martin revealed if you were applying to Widowed Parents Allowance but had remarried or were living with another partner you would no longer be eligible for money. However, relationship status is irrelevant for Bereavement Support Payment.

PPI reclaim

'PPI is one of the biggest financial scandals we have ever had in this country, over 40 billion pounds was mis-sold by scripted sales people, by the biggest financial institutions in the country and no one was ever put in prison for it,' the money saving expert said.

Britons were encouraged to reclaim before the August 2019 deadline, but a new legal claim may be about to reopen.

Martin explained the new claim is about a specific form of mis-selling, commonly called the 'Plevin' argument (named after the legal case it's based on).

Eligibility criteria to join Harcus Parker's group claim You must have had a loan, credit card, store card, catalogue account, an overdraft, or car finance in the past. And one of the following criterias applies to you: 1. You've never made a PPI claim before 2. You have made a previous PPI claim, but it was rejected 3. You've previously accepted a 'tipping point' offer (partial compensation) Advertisement

Following the Plevin case in 2014, the reclaim floodgates opened as the court ruling basically meant that anybody who had PPI with a loan or credit card from a bank or building society was likely mis-sold.

Martin said: 'Here's how it works: the average commission paid by insurers to the banks, when they sold PPI, was 70 or 80 per cent, so for every 100 you payed 70 or 80 per cent of it went to the banks.

'What Plevin said was if you weren't told what the commission was, any commission that you got above 50 per cent you should get the commission back, so it could be 20 or 30 per cent and that's called the tipping point claim.

However as part of this new group claim, law firm Harcus Parker is arguing that PPI commission should be paid back in full, which could be worth thousands of pounds.

This includes people who accepted tipping point offers, as well as those who either didn't know they had PPI, or knew they had it but had a claim rejected.

Martin added: 'You can't go through the Ombudsman which was the easy system, this is complicated which I don't like. I think unless you are a lawyer this is incredibly hard to do.

'If you want to do this then the best thing to do is go through Harcus Parker, I can't promise you will win and you have to be aware of the risks but if you're humming and hawing then you may as well give it a go.'
Tony Hudgell, the nine-year-old boy who has raised millions of pounds walking vast distances on prosthetics after his legs were amputated in infancy due to horrific abuse, has revealed details of his special friendship with the Princess of Wales.

Tony, from West Malling in Kent, met royal mother-of-three Kate, 41, at Evelina London Children's Hospital yesterday where he and his mother Paula chatted with her - and Paula was pictured feeling a little emotional at the meeting.

Speaking on the This Morning sofa today, Tony explained that, on his second meeting with Kate, she asked him to write her a short story - something he does frequently at school.

Sitting on Paula's lap, he told presenters Emma Willis and Rylan Clark that he plans to write the royal a story about what it was like to meet her - which he added he will send straight to the Palace.

Despite previously meeting Kate at the Princess's Christmas Carol Concert in Westminster Abbey in 2021, and again at the Day Centre in Westminster, Tony appeared bashful as he agreed with his mother that the Princess of Wales is 'beautiful'.

As he announced his Christmas Present Appeal for this year, where he gives out gifts to children who need then during the festive period, Tony spoke about his ongoing friendship with the Princess of Wales after the pair spent time together yesterday.

He agreed with Rylan that Kate is now his 'best mate' after they coloured together at the Evelina Hospital.

Rylan and Emma asked Tony what he and Kate discussed during their time together, at which point Tony appeared to struggle to remember and asked himself: 'What were we talking about?'

Paula jumped in and nudged her son, asking him: 'What have you got to do for her?'

Tony lit up and said: 'Oh yeah, she wants one of my stories!'

He added he writes stories in his school lessons and said: 'I'm gonna do one about meeting her yesterday.'

When Paula explained Kate had asked for the story to be 'sent to her' when it was complete, Rylan gasped and asked: 'You're going to send it to the Palace?'

Tony Hudgell, the nine-year-old boy who has raised almost 2 million for Evelina London Children's Hospital, revealed the Princess of Wales asked him to write her a story

On Tuesday Tony and his mother Paula met the Princess of Wales for the second time at the Day Centre at the Westminster Hospital

Emma Willis then asked Tony what Kate was like - prompting a wide smile from Tony as he went quiet and said: 'she was...'

Paula added: 'She was beautiful, wasn't she?' to which a beaming Tony replied: 'Yeah'.

Tony's appearance on the ITV daytime show comes after he took part in a colouring session with Kate yesterday at Evelina - and Paula struggled to contain her emotions as she posed for a photo with her son and the royal.

Tony was rushed to hospital with life changing injuries in 2014 when he was 41-days-old, following horrific abuse from his birth parents, Jody Simpson and Tony Smith. The pair were found guilty of child cruelty in 2018 and are both currently serving a ten-year prison sentence.

In 2017, Tony had both legs amputated due to the injuries he sustained as an infant, and he's currently learning to walk on prosthetic legs without crutches.

After his incredibly difficult start in life, Tony was adopted by Paula and Mark Hudgell of West Malling, Kent, who have successfully campaigned for longer sentences for anyone who seriously harms a child, and are now calling for a register of abusers in the wake of the murder of Arthur Labinjo-Hughes.

At Kate's first Christmas Carol Concert, held in December 2021, the young fundraiser met the Prince and Princess of Wales for the first time and reportedly spent 'ages' chatting to them,

His proud parents later tweeted: 'Tony has no idea of the impact or enormity he holds.

'[The Prince and Princess of Wales] were truly incredible with him. They chatted to us both for ages. A truly magical evening.'

A sweet image from the event showed William and Kate crouching down to Tony's eye level to chat to the youngster while his proud mother Paula looked on.

The invite to the concert came after Kate was impressed by Tony's charity efforts in 2020, when he raised more than 1.5 million for Evelina.
Jenny Darling, 23, from London has a long list of 'non-negotiable' terms

A child-free woman says she won't 'sacrifice' her body for a baby unless she is paid a 250,000 annual allowance, given a push present, and a mummy makeover.

Jenny Darling, 23, from Bishopsgate, London, revealed her 'non-negotiables' for pregnancy to make it 'worth' the toll on her physical and mental health.

The content creator has never wanted children but would consider it if the right partner could meet her terms.

Jenny said she would need to be married before falling pregnant, with a prenuptial agreement, and she'd like a 'babymoon' abroad before giving birth.

Following the birth, she wants a 250,000 annual allowance to pay for therapy, a personal trainer and anything she'd need for herself and the baby.

Jenny Darling (pictured), 23, from London has created a list of 'non-negotiables' that her partner must fulfil if they were to have children, including a 250k allowance

Jenny's list of demands doesn't stop there; she also wants a doula and a housekeeper for the first six months postpartum, who would be replaced by a weekly cleaner after that.

She also demands a luxury push present  such as a car or apartment  and a mummy makeover, including a tummy tuck and boob job.

Jenny said: 'Motherhood is priceless. You can't put a number on what is worth sacrificing.

'Creating a human life takes a lot of sacrifice. I'd never put my body through that for free. I'm not built to suffer.'

Jenny has always wanted to be 'childless'. She added: 'I've wanted to be childless since I started periods.

'I asked doctors to take my uterus out.

She continued: 'Kids are expensive. I wouldn't want to bring a child into this world to suffer.

'I would have kids on the terms it's a good motherhood experience for me.'

On top of the hefty allowance, Jenny would also like a 'push present' and a mummy makeover, including a boob job

From a young age, Jenny thought she did not want to have children. However, she's willing to make the right 'sacrifice' if the right man comes along

She added: 'I don't want kids. If it was to happen these are my non-negotiables.'

Jenny would need to have a prenup in place before falling pregnant.

She said: 'I would need to be married before I would even have a child  mainly because of my religion and protection for the baby.

'I want a prenup to cover anything that would impact my life - infidelity and things like that.'

Jenny would want to go on a babymoon to have one last proper holiday before the arrival of a little one.

She said: 'You have to give up everything you enjoy and that makes you you.'

The content creator would also like to be married before she has children because of her religion

Jenny has set out a long list of terms, which includes a personal trainer, a doula, and a housekeeper

Jenny said she'd need an allowance per year to cover the costs of activities for herself and her baby.

She said: 'I'd need a 250k annual allowance.

'For therapy sessions, a PT, all of things you'd need to live.

'It's investing in our life and future.'

Jenny would also want a doula and a housekeeper following the birth.

She said: 'I don't know how women do cooking, cleaning and working as a mum. I commend that but it's not going to be me.

The 23-year-old said that, at one point in her life, she asked the doctors to take her uterus out to stop her from having children

Jenny is certain of what she wants, and it involves a weekly cleaner and doula after she gives birth

'I'd want a housekeeper for six months. Replaced by a weekly cleaner.

'Clean space is a clean mind.

'I would have a doula  just so I can sleep.

'I'd want them every night until after six months.'

Jenny wouldn't want to work full-time to support her child for the first few years of motherhood.

She said: 'I would want to be working because I want to, not because I have to.'

After she gives birth, Jenny would like to continue working out of pleasure, rather than necessity

The 23-year-old would also like to go on a 'babymoon' before she gives birth, and it would have to take place abroad

Jenny shared a video where she listed her long list of 'non-negotiables', which included a push present

Jenny said she'd need a 'mummy makeover' to get back to herself again.

She said: 'It would depend on how the birth goes but I'd need a tummy tuck and a boob job and a lot of therapy.

'I want a push present to secure me and my child's future  such as a car or apartment.'

Jenny doesn't see children in her future but said she'd consider it if they could meet all her 'non- negotiables'.

She said: 'Maybe for the right person who could give me the best experience of motherhood.

'I don't think it's much to ask for.'
A German-American heiress who charmed high-society at the Le Bal des Debutantes has become a social media sensation by flaunting her insanely lavish globe-trotting life online - prompting many to compare her to a real-life Gossip Girl.

Countess Lara Cosima Henckel von Donnersmarck, 20, who is the daughter of an acclaimed Hollywood filmmaker and the descendant of one of the most prestigious families in Germany, has been integrating herself into the world of fashion in recent years.

Not only has the New York-based Parsons School of Design student earned a glamorous internship at Dior's haute couture division in Paris, France, for the last two summers, but she's also attended some of the most coveted runway shows and mingled with a slew of the industry's top designers along the way.

Most recently, Lara dazzled at the Le Bal des Debutantes 2023 - an elite annual event that honors socialites and aristocrats from all across the globe - where she was selected to open the ball by dancing a waltz with her famous father.

A German-American heiress who charmed high-society at the Le Bal des Debutantes has become a social media sensation by flaunting her insanely lavish globe-trotting life online

Lara Cosima Henckel von Donnersmarck (seen with her dad in 2018), 20, is the daughter of a Hollywood filmmaker and the descendant of one of the most prestigious families in Germany

The Parsons School of Design student has interned at Dior's haute couture division in Paris, France, for the last two summers, while showcasing her glitzy life on TikTok and Instagram

Her extravagant behavior has sparked a fierce interest into who she really is. She has racked up more than 560,000 followers and 10 million likes across her videos

Over the course of the last year, the 20-year-old has been showcasing her glitzy life on TikTok, where she has racked up more than 560,000 followers and 10 million likes across her videos.

She posts 'Day in the life' and 'Get ready with me' type clips that show her trying on various designer looks in her stunning Paris apartment, doing various tasks for Dior, and visiting some of the most sought after restaurants and social clubs throughout the City of Lights.

Her extravagant behavior has sparked a fierce interest into who she really is from her growing fanbase.

She has attended some of the most coveted runway shows at Paris Fashion Week and mingled with a slew of the industry's top designers

Lara's father, Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, is a German Count who hails from a 'family who were central figures of the second Industrial Revolution,' according to Hello! magazine.

Her dad is a wildly successful director, whose most notable films include the romantic thriller The Tourist (which starred Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp), Das Leben der Anderen (which earned him the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film), and Never Look Away (which got two more Oscar nominations).

Lara's mother, Christiane Asschenfeldt, is a prominent lawyer and also serves as the international executive director of the non-profit organization Creative Commons.

Her grandfather, Leo-Ferdinand Henckel von Donnersmarck, is the former president of the German division of Order of Malta - but Lara has insisted that her wealth has come from her father's work and not her ancestors.

'There's been a lot of interest in my family history,' Lara said in one of her TikTok videos.

She often posts 'Day in the life' and 'Get ready with me' type clips that show her trying on various designer looks in her stunning Paris apartment and doing various tasks for Dior

Lara's father, Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, is a German Count who hails from a 'family who were central figures of the second Industrial Revolution,' according to Hello! magazine

Her dad is a wildly successful director, whose most notable films include the romantic thriller The Tourist - which starred Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp (seen)

Lara was born in Florida but raised in LA. She now divides her time between Manhattan and Paris, but she often jets off on exquisite vacations to places like London, Milan, and Aruba

Her free time is spent eating at top dining spots, attending parties, and dancing the night away at clubs with her friends

'My great-grandfather lost everything he had when Stalin's troops expelled all the Germans in his region [during World War II].

'What we have today is a result of my dad's work, he's a movie director.'

While she was born in Florida, Lara moved to Los Angeles, California, at a young age, where she spent the rest of her childhood.

When it came time for college, she headed to New York City to attend the Parsons School of Design.

She now divides her time between Manhattan and Paris, but she often jets off on exquisite vacations to places like London, Milan, and Aruba.

Her free time is spent eating at top dining spots, attending parties, and dancing the night away at clubs with her friends.

Some of her responsibilities during her Dior internship included helping out at fittings and working backstage at the brand's fashion shows.

At the Debutantes, which took place on November 25, Lara wore a stunning Jean Paul Gaultier gray gown with a dazzling silver and gold heart embellishment in the chest area.

Some of her responsibilities during her Dior internship included helping out at fittings and photoshoots, and working backstage at the brand's fashion shows

Most recently, Lara dazzled at the Le Bal des Debutantes 2023 - an elite annual event that honors socialites and aristocrats from all across the globe

At the event, Lara wore a Jean Paul Gaultier gray gown with a dazzling silver and gold heart embellishment in the chest, which she paired with a V Muse's Couteulx Floral Diamond Tiara

She was selected to open the ball by dancing a waltz with her famous father

She paired the breathtaking dress with a V Muse's Couteulx Floral Diamond Tiara.

'The tiara features stones from the collection of French banker Baron Jacques-Jean Le Couteulx and his wife Genevieve-Sophie Le Couteulx,' the jewelry company said of the hair piece. 'The largest antique diamond in the center weighs 3.66 carats.'

Elle magazine previously said of the TikTok star, 'In person, shes a sweet, unassured 20-year-old who is keenly interested in fashion and is trying to figure out her place in the world - one that isnt defined by her famous parents.'

While speaking to the outlet, Lara explained that she hopes to one day make a difference with her growing online presence.

'Thats the most important thing in fashion to me: its not just something beautiful, but it can also bring attention to a lot of important issues,' she explained.

Elle magazine previously said of the TikTok star, 'In person, shes a sweet, unassured 20-year-old who is keenly interested in fashion and is trying to figure out her place in the world'

While speaking to the outlet, Lara explained that she hopes to one day make a difference with her growing online presence

Lara's openness about her opulent life on TikTok, while earning her viral fame, has also left some people unamused

Some commenters have compared her life to something they've seen in a movie or show, while others admitted that they didn't think anyone in real life lived the way she does

Lara's openness about her opulent life on TikTok, while earning her viral fame, has also left some people unamused.

'So God actually has favorites,' one unamused viewer commented under a recent video of Lara's.

'Me trying to decided if I should spend my $15.73 on DoorDash or save it meanwhile people out here living like this,' someone else wrote.

Another person said, 'Im over here trying to figure out how Im going to afford food and gas., while a fourth added, 'I had $4.12 in my bank account this morning.'

Some commenters have compared her life to something they've seen in a movie or show, while others admitted that they didn't think anyone in real life lived the way she does.
The ex-husband of Queen Letizias sister has stood by his astonishing claims he had a romance with the Spanish royal.

Jaime Del Burgo, 53, who is currently based in the UK, contributed to a tell-all book last month about King Felipe's wife, in which he said he and Letizia were partners before he married her younger sibling Telma Ortiz.

He also makes the far-fetched claim that he was still romantically involved with the royal after Letizia's 2004 wedding to Felipe.

A spokesperson for the Spanish Royal Family told FEMAIL: 'We have no comment to make about this.'

In his first tweet since the scandal broke, del Burgo, who claims he was dating Letizia, 51, when she met Felipe, insisted: 'I don't change a comma of my deleted posts.

The ex-husband of Queen Letizia s sister has stood by his astonishing claims he had a romance with the Spanish royal (pictured in November in Madrid)

'I appreciate the messages from those who have understood that I would have my reasons. I hold no grudge against those who have threatened to kill me. I don't feel proud. But the truth is what it is.

'I recognize only one King in Heaven and his name is Jesus of Nazareth. He will judge me.'

The message, posted in Spanish and English, was the only one on his X, formerly known as Twitter, account today - but over the weekend, the entrepreneur shared an undated selfie Letizia took in a bathroom mirror during one of her pregnancies as 'evidence' of their relationship.

In the selfie, the royal can be seen wearing a black pashmina - which Jaime claims belonged to him - and he also typed out a message in his social media post, supposedly sent to him by the Spanish Queen.

It read: 'Love. I wear your pashmina. It's like feeling you by my side. It takes care of me. It protects me. I count the hours until we see each other again. Love you. Get out of here. Yours,'

Spanish media have reported other messages he supposedly posted on X, which the entrepreneur is understood to have removed shortly after publishing them, pointed to them having a secret affair after Letizia married Felipe.

After sharing the selfie, other X users questioned the validity of Jaime's claims - given there is no evidence that Letizia sent him the photo or accompanying message.

Del Burgos tweet, and the others alluded to by some Spanish media, followed the publication of a bombshell book by veteran journalist and author Jaime Penafiel called Letizia y Yo, English for Letizia and I.

Over the weekend, businessman Jaime Del Burgo shared this unseen selfie of Queen Letizia with his X followers. He claimed that the royal was wearing his pashmina and said it 'took care of her'

Jaime Del Burgo and his ex-wife Telma Ortiz seen in 2012 before their wedding. The couple split in 2014

King Felipe and Queen Letizia on their wedding day in Madrid in May 2004. Jaime Del Burgo claims he was going to propose to the newsreader until she announced she had met King Felipe

The royal couple (pictured in Madrid on Monday) married in 2004 and share two children

Father-of-two Del Burgo, who divorced Telma Ortiz by mutual consent in 2016 four years after they married and two years after they split up, claimed in the book he was carrying an engagement ring in his pocket during a meeting at Madrids Ritz Hotel with his 'then-girlfriend' Letizia in 2002 when she told him she had fallen in love with the future King of Spain.

He alleged he became friends with Felipe after they met and was asked by Letizia to be a witness at their May 22 2004 wedding.

TIMELINE OF JAIME'S CLAIMS ABOUT HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH SPAIN'S ROYAL FAMILY Pre-2000 - Letizia Ortiz, who was a newsreader at the time, meets Jaime del Burgo - the son of a politician - and the pair start dating

- Letizia Ortiz, who was a newsreader at the time, meets Jaime del Burgo - the son of a politician - and the pair start dating 2001 - Letizia and King Felipe meet on the site of a oil spillage. Jaime claims he was planning to propose when she told him about her new royal romance

- Letizia and King Felipe meet on the site of a oil spillage. Jaime claims he was planning to propose when she told him about her new royal romance 2003 - Letizia and Felipe announce engagement.

- Letizia and Felipe announce engagement. 2004 - the couple marry at Almudena Cathedral in Madrid. Jaime claims he was asked to be a witness during the ceremony

- the couple marry at Almudena Cathedral in Madrid. Jaime claims he was asked to be a witness during the ceremony 2005 - the couple welcome Princess Leonor

February 2007 - Letizia's sister Erika suddenly passes away

- Letizia's sister Erika suddenly passes away April 2007 - Princess Sofia is born. During one of her pregnancies, Jaime claims Letizia sends him a selfie confessing her love.

- Princess Sofia is born. During one of her pregnancies, Jaime claims Letizia sends him a selfie confessing her love. 2 010 - the couple reportedly profess their love for one another and allegedly meet with lawyers. Jaime claims they looked at properties in the US to move to. He also claims Letizia suggested they use a surrogate in LA to have a baby

- the couple reportedly profess their love for one another and allegedly meet with lawyers. Jaime claims they looked at properties in the US to move to. He also claims Letizia suggested they use a surrogate in LA to have a baby 2011 - Jaime claims Letizia ends their relationship over the phone

- Jaime claims Letizia ends their relationship over the phone 2 012 - Jaime marries Letizia's sister Telma. The couple relocate to New York

- Jaime marries Letizia's sister Telma. The couple relocate to New York 2014 - Telma and Jaime announce their separation Advertisement

Jaime also makes the incredible claim that the Queen asked to see him the night before the wedding at the exclusive El Latigazo restaurant in Madrid - where she asked him to 'never leave' her.

He said in quotes Jaime Penafiel said he had obtained via emails and phone calls with del Burgo: 'When we met, she took hold of my hand and asked me why I had never asked her to marry me. Obviously I didn't reply.

'I encouraged her as best I could. The last thing she said to me before we said goodbye to each other in that restaurant was a request: "Never leave me."''

The businessman - who is the son of the former politician Jaime Ignacio del Burgo - claimed their romantic relationship was forged in Venice and pre-dated the year 2000.

He also recalled a moment he says occurred following Princess Leonors birth when they were lying together in a hammock by a pool, saying in the book which was released last month: 'Letizia told me "I love you" and I responded "I love you".'

Telma is now with Irish lawyer Gavin Bonnar and the couple welcomed their first child together in October 2021. Gavin shares two children with his first wife musician Sharon Corr.

In her recent album The Fool & The Scorpion, Sharon wrote lyrics which included 'the queen's twisted sister' - which fans speculated were inspired by her children's new step-mother.

Speaking to El Cierre Digitial, the Letizia and I author, 91, said Letizia was del Burgo's 'great love' and the pair's relationship turned into a 'great friendship' after she became romantically involved with Felipe.

What's more, the royal's ex-brother-in-law also made the far-fetched claim that he 'dealt' with Letizia's pre-nuptial agreement and helped to front the cost of the Queen's family's wedding outfits.

He is quoted as saying: 'When the wedding with Felipe came round, I dealt with the pre-nuptial agreement as you know, amongst other things.

'I also had to pay Letizia's family's expenses because [former King] Juan Carlos refused to pay or even go halves with me. So with the help of my friend Felipe Varela, I dressed her mum, grandmother and her sisters. And with the help of Jaime Jason, her father, grandparents and a cousin.'

In the book, Letizia's alleged ex-lover describes Felipe as a 'kind-hearted man' and even goes on to say that he had a 'great friendship' with the royal. He told the author: 'I told him my problems and he told [me] his.'

The businessman even claims that Felipe 'uses [him] as a good man because he felt incapable of calming [Letizia] down' on occasions.

Telma Ortiz is seen leaving the EDP Gran Via Theater after attending the 'We Choose Earth Tour' on June 22, 2023 in Madrid

Queen Letizia during her time as a newsreader for Television Espanola before her wedding to King Felipe

Following the wedding, Del Burgo described how Letizia was like a 'fox in a chicken coop' as she was 'cleverer than any of them'.

Del Burgo- who says the Queen nicknamed him her 'yogi pal' - claims he still had a romantic relationship with Letizia even after the wedding in 2004. He also claims he has kept 'photographs, videos, mobile phones' and text messages as evidence.

The businessman claimed that 'love was always there' in their relationship since they travelled to Venice together. The selfie Del Burgo shared on Twitter was taken during one of Letizia's pregnancies between 2005-2007.

Following this, Jaime alleges they 'took steps forward with the goal of being free' - which involved seeking legal advice and looking at properties in the US.

One of the most damaging claims Del Burgo reportedly makes is that Queen Letizia suggested they have a child together using a surrogate in Los Angeles.

Around this time, Del Burgo claims that he confronted Letizia after photos of her kissing Felipe appeared on the covers of Spanish magazines. He claims the Queen told him: 'I had to do it to protect us.'

Jaime Penafiel goes on to write that when Sofia was born, Jaime del Burgo became uncle to both of the girls.

It then quotes him as saying: 'It was a beautiful period. I didn't have children, and those girls made me so happy. I was working in Brazil and suffered a pulmonary embolism.

Queen Letizia's sister Telma Ortiz with partner Robert Gavin at the Princess of Asturias Awards in 2019

'I was in intensive care for a fortnight. I managed to get the Albert Einstein Hospital to give me a telephone Letizia and I spoke to each other every day on [the phone].

'During my visits to Madrid I would often go to the cinema with Felipe, Letizia and some friends. Letizia and I would always sit together, holding hands. They were moments of happiness.'

However in August 2011, Jaime alleges Letizia abruptly ended their relationship when she called him and said: 'We can't continue seeing each other.'

Following this, Del Burgo alleges that a female friend told him to get in touch with Telma - who he had met when he first started dating Letizia.

The following year, the pair got engaged after just two months of dating. The Queen's sister already had her daughter Amanda from her relationship with ex-partner Enrique Martin Llop.

In 2012, the pair relocated to New York to start their married life - but Telma returned to Barcelona the same year before announcing their permanent separation.

Letizia and Telma tragically lost their younger sister Erika in February 2007 when she passed away following a deliberate drug overdose. Queen Letizia's younger sister was only 31 years old and left behind her six-year-old daughter Carla.

At the time, the Spanish royal was six months pregnant with her second daughter - Princess Sofia.

Letizia studied her Masters in broadcast journalism and after a stint at Asturian daily paper, La Nueva Espana, she went on to work for ABC, a popular national newspaper that enjoys the third largest circulation in Spain.

Next came a stint at Spanish news agency EFE before a move to Guadalajara in Mexico saw her take on a role on local paper, Siglo 21.

Back in Spain a year later, she worked for the Spanish version of Bloomberg, a news channel and agency specialising in economics, before moving to CNN+.

Before she met Felipe of Spain, Letizia was married to high school literature teacher Alonso Guerrero Perez, who was nine years her senior.

The couple wed in 1998 following a ten-year romance, with the pair meeting when the future Spanish queen was just 16.

They tied the knot in a civil ceremony in the town of Almendralejo, Badajoz, but divorced the following year.

By the time she met her husband-to-be, Felipe, in 2002, Letizia was working for popular TV channel 24 Horas, where along with anchoring the popular Telediario 2 evening news bulletin she reported on a wide range of breaking news event.

As a news anchor, she reported live from Ground Zero after the 9/11 attacks in 2001.

She met Prince Felipe the following year  at the site of an oil spillage in Northern Spain. The year after first meeting Felipe, Letizia quit her job and a few days later their engagement was announced.

Letizia and Felipe's marriage in Madrid in 2004 prompted an upswing in support for the royal family, and her habit of championing High Street brands like Zara proved popular. She and Felipe had two daughters, Leonor in 2005 and Sofia in 2007.
Prince Constantin of Liechtenstein has died unexpectedly at the age of 51, the country's royal household has announced.

The father-of-three was the third son of the reigning Prince Hans-Adam II and seventh in line to the throne.

A statement read: 'The Princely House regrets to announce that H.S.H. Prince Constantin von und zu Liechtenstein passed away unexpectedly on 5 December 2023.

'Prince Constantin was the youngest son of Prince Hans-Adam II. He leaves behind his wife, Princess Marie of Liechtenstein, nee Countess Kalnoky of Korospatak, and his children Prince Moritz, Princess Georgina and Prince Benedikt.

'Prince Constantin was chairman of the supervisory board of Liechtenstein Group AG and a member of Board of Directors of Liechtenstein Group Holding AG.'

Prince Constantin of Liechtenstein (pictured with his wife in 2004) has died unexpectedly at the age of 51, the country's royal household has announced

Prince Constantin wed Marie Kalnoky de Korospatak in 1999, reported Royal Central. They went on to have three children together, Prince Moritz, 20, Princess Gina, 18, and Prince Benedikt, 15.

The cause of Prince Constantin's death has not been mentioned, local media reported.

Paying tribute to the late royal, the state parliament held a minute's silence on Wednesday.

Afterwards, Apostolic Administrator Benno Elbs offered some words to the late royal's family, saying, via Vaterland, the largest daily newspaper in Liechtenstein: 'It was with great sadness that I learned today of the death of SD Prince Constantin of Liechtenstein.

'On behalf of the Archdiocese of Vaduz, I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to SD Prince Hans-Adam II, the wife of the deceased, Princess Marie, and their children Prince Moritz, Princess Georgina and Prince Benedikt.

'I am united with them and the entire royal family in mourning and praying for the deceased.

The father-of-three was the third son of the reigning Prince Hans-Adam II and seventh in line to the throne. Pictured, Prince Constantin in 2005

'This afternoon, at 3 p.m., the bells rang in all the parish churches of the archdiocese. I invite all believers in the Principality to join in prayer for Prince Constantin and thus express their solidarity with the Princely House.

'I wish Prince Hans-Adam II, Princess Marie, the children and everyone who mourns the deceased a lot of strength and comfort.

'You may feel supported by the many people who are praying for the deceased throughout the principality. God grant Prince Constantin eternal rest.'

Prince Constantin, who studied law, spent eleven years as the general director and chairman of the board of the Prince Liechtenstein Foundation.

The foundation holds almost all of the Royal Family's assets, including reportedly one of the largest private art collections in the world.
A pair of unfamiliar eyes peered into mine as I woke up. They belonged to a man in a fluorescent jacket and green overalls  the kind paramedics wear.

Youre all right, he said, gently. How are you feeling now?

My head throbbed as I sat up to find myself on a cold, metal bench in the middle of the night. I heard a train announcement and realised I was at a railway station.

Panic swept through me as I struggled to remember what I was doing there. Had I been in an accident?

The paramedic patiently explained that Id boarded my train home, fallen asleep and the ticket guard hadnt been able to rouse me to check my ticket.

Julie Cook quit drinking in 2019 after years of being a borderline alcoholic binge-drinker

Theyd stopped the train at Woking (an unscheduled stop) and Id been carried off  unaware and unconscious  by the emergency services.

There was nothing medically wrong; I was a healthy woman in my 20s. I was just hideously, humiliatingly drunk, having been quaffing prosecco for around seven hours with work colleagues in a pub. The last thing I remembered was boarding the train. Then Id blacked out.

Its a tale that might sound disturbingly familiar. From office parties to intimate festive dinners, temptation is huge at this time of year.

At least, that was always my experience, until I quit drinking in 2019 after years of being a borderline alcoholic binge-drinker.

Once, leaving a grand party, I fell over drunk outside a Park Lane hotel and had to be helped off the pavement by a valet driver. Christmas itself was often a blur.

My body was programmed to drink to excess

Going out on Christmas Eve, getting sloshed, vomiting, waking up on Christmas Day with a hangover, vomiting again, cooking a roast while feeling queasy, starting on hair-of-the-dog, then drinking through until New Years Eve.

At the time, I laughed it off as seasonal exuberance. But now, recalling it fills me with shame. Sometimes Id become verbally abusive when drunk, then have no recollection of what Id said to my ex-partner the following day.

In my 30s, I married my husband, Cornel. He has never been a big drinker and put up with me, amazingly, but often said he hoped I would cut down.

So imagine my delight when I received cast-iron proof that this fondness for Christmas spirits wasnt entirely my fault; that my body was programmed to drink to excess while friends around me stopped.

Research by Penn State University in the U.S. into genes with links to alcohol use has shown that how much you drink could be significantly influenced by your DNA.

Julie discovered that she has four alcoholic dependency genetic variants that predispose a person to drinking more and having a higher chance of alcoholism

When the studys 3.4 million participants were asked how much they drank, the 10 per cent of people from a white European background with the highest genetic score linked to drinking put away more than seven drinks a week on average.

Yet the 10 per cent with the lowest genetic score had fewer than four drinks a week.

Professor Sir Munir Pirmohamed, of the University of Liverpool, worked on another such study that identified genetic variants linked to drinking.

That research found those who drank a lot  at least five bottles of wine a week for men, and three-and-a-half for women  shared six specific genetic variants.

Its not a curse, but a warning to avoid triggers

He explains: Using the UK Biobank [a bank containing the genetic information of half a million people], we identified that people who drank more heavily tended to have particular variants in their genes  ADH1B being the most common.

'Indeed, 50 per cent of the variance for Alcohol Use Disorder is explained by genetic factors. If you carry these variants  some people may carry one or two, some all six variants  it increases your risk of drinking more heavily.

Curious, I used the genetic testing firm 23andme and discovered I have not just one but four alcoholic dependency genetic variants (including ADH1B) that predispose a person to drinking more and having a higher chance of alcoholism.

Relief flooded through me. I felt vindicated, as if the weight of guilt and embarrassment had lifted. But there were questions, too.

Professor Pirmohamed is keen to stress that alcoholism is not a foregone conclusion for those carrying these variants.

No gene by itself is necessary or sufficient to lead to alcohol dependency, he says. Other factors in your lifestyle also play a part, such as family, life experience, social groups and even access to alcohol.

As a young journalist, Julie's tolerance increased. On a binge day, she could easily drink two bottles of wine

I thought about my father, who died of cancer aged 59. Had I inherited the genes from him? Like me, he would save up his drinking to a Friday and Saturday night, becoming lighter and more talkative with each glass.

He told me stories of how, as a child, he was not allowed to see his own father when he was drinking, saying that his mother locked his father in another room.

So was it passed down to both of us from my grandfather? Does that mean Ive passed it to my own children, aged 15 and ten?

I was 13 when I had my first taste of alcohol, from my dads barrel of home-brew. Giggling, my friends and I helped ourselves while he was at work. But while they had one or two glasses, I had four.

And so the pattern was set. We would get older kids to go to the off-licence and buy us alcopops and cider. But when others stopped, Id drink until I couldnt stand up.

As a young journalist, women were encouraged to drink men under the table. And so my tolerance increased. On a binge day, I easily drank two bottles of wine.

Then Id wake in the early hours, dry mouth, head pounding and get the 3am horrors  did I fall over last night? Who did I offend?

Strangely, I never thought I had a drink problem, and no one ever told me I did. Looking back, Id call myself a functioning binge-drinker  my career never faltered  rather than an alcoholic. But once I started drinking, I couldnt stop.

Julie used to get drunk on Christmas Eve and then drink all the way through until New Years Eve

When I had my two children, in 2008 and 2013, Id stop drinking entirely while they were small, but then fall off the wagon once they were older, indulging at weekends as a treat after theyd gone to bed.

Id conditioned myself to believe alcohol was a tonic. For being bored. Or angry. Or sad. Or tired.

It wasnt until one night in 2019, when I was 42, that I found the inner strength to stop.

I was in Paris with my husband, drinking a cocktail, and thought: I dont like doing this any more. I wanted to see Napoleons tomb the next day without a hangover. I havent touched a drink since.

It might sound bizarre that someone seemingly with no off switch could stop so suddenly. But Id been thinking about it for a while, hating the shame and fuzzy memory. I knew moderation would never work for me.

The fact I could stop so suddenly gives me hope that although our behaviour around drinking can be a genetic predisposition, it is, perhaps, not a curse.

Professor Pirmohamed says: It doesnt mean that if youre carrying those genes, you will always drink heavily. Its about avoiding triggers where you can.

I can testify that life is so much better sober. I notice more, I remember more, I sleep well.

She new that drinking in moderation would never work for her and, hating the shame and fuzzy memory, decided to stop completely

I wish Id known I had this genetic predisposition earlier. Would it have helped me curb my drinking? I dont know, but it explains my huge tolerance for alcohol.

I hope this has not been passed down to my children, but if signs of addiction ever start to show, Ill be the first to raise it with them.

Meanwhile, this Christmas (my fifth one sober), while other people start on the sherry, I shall be on sparkling elderflower water.

One friend suggested I am still addicted, but addicted to not drinking. Ill happily take that.
The dress the Princess of Wales wore at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday was literally dazzling.

From her collarbone down to her wrists and the tips of her pointy sparkly pumps, she was covered in rose gold hand-stitched sequins embellished with crystals at the neck and waist.

Nothing quite says princess, or a party at the Palace, or luxury (sequin comes from the Arabic word for coin) like a floor-sweeping fitted gown coated in spangles.

The Georgia gown by Jenny Packham is just the latest in a long line of sequin dresses Kate has worn over the years. (She has an almost identical style in emerald green.)

There was the delicate pale pink tulle dress, embellished with distressed silver sequins, she wore for a gala dinner in 2011, and the one everyone remembers, the gold cape dress she wore for the UK premiere of Bond film No Time To Die (instantly nicknamed the Goldfinger).

The dress the Princess of Wales wore at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday (pictured) was literally dazzling

The Princess of Wales wears a Needle & Thread gown to a UK-Africa summit at Buckingham Palace on Janaury 20, 2020

The Princess of Wales dazzles in a showstopper dress designed by Jenny Packham at the 2017 Royal Variety Performance (left) while she opts for a sleeveless gown at the 2013 Tusk Conservation Awards (right)

The Princess of Wales beams in a green gown at the Royal Variety Performance in 2021

If you had to pick the Princess of Wales's best dresses of all time, these two would be in the top five.

But sequins can be heavy and they coat the body like treacle which makes them unforgiving.

Kate has the advantage of a slim figure and being able to pay for Jenny Packham's skilful draping and precision hand-stitching. (All of the dresses above are by the British couturier, bar the 410 red Aurora gown, from London-based label Needle & Thread.)

Cheap machine-stitched sequins don't lie smoothly like a polished second skin as Packham's do and all these dresses are fitted to the body like a glove and long enough to very slightly pool on the floor, which gives them a softness and lightness.

The exquisite results make paying for the hours and hours of labour that go into making each of her dresses worth it.

The rest of the magic is down to Kate and her stylists.

Sequins can look cloying and cheap if not handled with respect. This means wearing them with the simplest accessories  plain or similarly sparkly  and bold jewellery that won't get lost or compete.

Kate attends the 10th Annual ARK (Absolute Return for Kids) Gala Dinner at Kensington Palace on June 9, 2011

Everyone remembers the gold cape dress Kate wore (pictured) for the UK premiere of Bond film No Time To Die (instantly nicknamed the Goldfinger)

Kate's custom gown at a 2016 Diplomatic Corps reception. She is pictured alongside Prince William at Buckingham Palace

On Tuesday, Kate wore Gianvito Rossi pumps and carried an old favourite rose satin Prada clutch.

The jewellery was, of course, breathtaking royal bling  Cartier diamond chandelier earrings and the Queen Mary Lover's Knot diamond and pearl tiara.

The addition of the blue sash, Maltese cross and star badge, signifying Kate is a Dame Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order, was the icing on the cake.

Now that's how you wear sequins.
The young founder of a global beauty brand had an embarrassing blunder that almost cost her thousands of dollars.

Iris Smit, from Perth, is the owner of multi-million dollar business The Quick Flick which best known for creating the world first eyeliner stamp in 2016. The brand has since expanded into offering sunscreen and skincare.

Iris and her team were preparing to launch the new Quick Screen Whipped Body Moisturiser and Aftersun Mousse in Coles, so they took a mock-up shelf tray into a local store to visualise how it would look on shelves.

Then they discovered a typo on the packaging of the tray.

On the side it stated the key ingredient was 'cooling cumcumber' instead of cucumber, leaving Iris horrified.

It was a lucky find as the team were set to print a staggering 50,000 shelf trays in same design and roll them out into supermarkets.

The Quick Flick founder Iris Smit noticed the unfortunate error before the latest product was meant to launch in Coles stores nationally. On the side it stated the key ingredient was 'cooling cumcumber' instead of cucumber, leaving Iris horrified

The moment Iris and an employee discovered the printing error was caught on camera and the footage was shared on TikTok.

'This is wild! Thank goodness we take our testing process seriously, to avoid CRAZY mistakes like this from happening!' the video caption read.

In the clip, the two women can be seen looking mortified as they made the discovery.

'During our testing visit Iris noticed something. She was like "come, come, come, come here quick!" ... and when I saw it, I saw it,' the worker said in a voiceover.

'Panic mode was activated as Iris frantically contacted our design team to correct the error ASAP.

'And what was the outcome? Well we managed to get it all fixed up just in time for our two new mousses to come in hot to Coles stores.'

It was a fortunate discovery as the team were set to print a staggering 50,000 shelf trays in same design and roll them out into supermarkets

The hilarious clip has since been viewed more than 1.4 million times and left thousands in stitches.

'Omg for real, this is priceless,' one wrote, another said: 'That got me howling.'

'Ladies haha this is why you have a final spec sheet, design approval form that's signed off by three different departments,' a third said.

The Quick Screen range includes products for your skin, eyelashes and eyebrows (pictured)

Read more: Woolworths shoppers outraged over huge change to the deli counters Advertisement

The idea for The Quick Flick came in 2016 when she was searching for an easier way to do her winged eyeliner everyday.

When she made the Forbes rich list in May 2022, Iris told FEMAIL she was honoured to have made the list in what had been a difficult time for businesses in the Asia Pacific region.

She was one of 4,000 people to be put up for a place on the coveted list. The youngest person to make the list was just 14 - while the average is usually 26.8.

The young entrepreneur - who invested $10,000 of her own money into her brand - appeared on Shark Tank in May 2018 just three months after launch.

The 'sharks' were interested in her $35 product with Andrew Banks offering to invest $300,000 - a deal for 25 per cent of her company - just three months after she launched in 2016.

But five months later when it was time to sign the contract, Iris realised her business was worth far more than the offer.

'My business was valued by the sharks on the show at $1million, however by the time the show aired in May its valuation had already tripled. I wasn't in the position where I really needed the $300,000,' she said.

The winged eye-liner queen went out on her own - and within 12 months, she had turned over $10 million dollars.
A mystery disease is plaguing Australia's rainbow lorikeet population leaving them paralysed and unable to fly.

Queensland's RSPCA has reported a surge in cases of Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome (LPS) which can be cured with early intervention however many birds die if treated too late.

The cause is unknown and it is considered one of Australia's most significant wildlife diseases as it affects thousands of birds in Queensland and New South Wales.

Thousands were left devastated after the animal rescue organisation shared an image of four little lorikeets, Mash, Chippy, Tater and Spud, afflicted with the disease in a wildlife rehabilitation centre.

RSPCA Qld Wildlife Business Development Manager Jaimee Blouse told FEMAIL it was common for lorikeets suffering from symptoms of LPS to experience secondary incidents like cat attacks or collisions with cars.

Rainbow lorikeets in New South Wales and Queensland are under threat of a potentially deadly disease, Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome

'A mysterious toxin causing our rainbows of the sky to be unable to walk, eat, blink and eventually unable to move at all, LPS is now considered one of Australia's most significant wildlife diseases,' RSCPA QLD said.

'The cause of LPS still remains unknown. However, researchers are exploring the possibility it is caused by the ingestion of a toxic plant in the southern Queensland and northern NSW region.'

Rescuers said the syndrome occurs mainly between October and June with cases peaking between December and February.

If sick lorikeets get treatment for LPS early they have a better chance of survival but they will need weeks to months of round-the-clock intensive care to be fully rehabilitated.

'Upon arrival, our Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre at Eumundi team gave Mash, Chippy, Tater and Spud, a comprehensive health assessment, starting with radiographs to ensure they have not sustained additional injuries,' the post continued.

Queensland's RSPCA has reported a surge in cases of Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome which can be cured with early intervention however many birds die if treated too late

'Then their treatment for LPS began with fluid therapy, pain relief, nutritional support, regular bed changes and baths, as well as administrating of eye drops to combat their inability to blink.'

Sadly Spud died from LPA but the other three are continuing to show 'incredible improvement' and are now able to perch and self feed again.

Symptoms of LPS include an inability to fly, paralysis of the legs and wings, hobbling and wobbling, voice changes and in serious cases an inabaility to blink or swallow.

'We see a lot of lorikeets in the wildlife hospital which have suffered two or three injuries, like a cat attack or collision with a vehicle, due to symptoms of Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome,' Ms Blouse said.

'If you see a lorikeet that can't fly or its not flying well, it needs medical attention ASAP.'

The RSPCA urges anyone who sees a lorikeets displaying any symptoms to seek them help immediately by calling the organisation's 24/7 emergency hotline 1300 ANIMAL (264 625).
Studies show face masks are only five percent effective at preventing infection

America's face mask policy has been branded 'outdated' and unscientific as a DailyMail.com analysis shows most states are still recommending them to protect against Covid.

Last week, an infectious disease doctor who advises the UK Government testified there was no proof face coverings stopped viral transmission and may have even raised the risk of getting infected because it gave people a 'false sense of security.'

The expert's testimony came after numerous reviews - including one by the esteemed Cochrane Institute - that failed to find solid evidence masks reduced Covid cases, hospital admissions or deaths globally during the pandemic.

Yet in the US, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is still recommending masks for people in areas where the community spread is elevated and hospital admission levels are high.

And an analysis of state health department guidance shows 31 states are either outright recommending masks for people who are high risk or refer to the CDC's recommendation.

The CDC 's face covering recommendations vary based on the hospital admission level in an area - and 31 states follow suit. Red states indicate those that follow the CDC's recommendations and tan states indicate those who do not recommend or have limited face mask recommendations

Director of the CDC Dr Mandy Cohen refused to tell House lawmakers last week that the agency would not once again recommend face masks for children as young as two years old

Dr Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease expert at the University of California San Francisco, told DailyMail.com the CDC has been too 'slow' to catch up with the science.

Dr Gandhi, who initially supported masks in the beginning of the pandemic due to the 'unknown' nature of the virus, said there is now 'too much evidence' and literature supporting not using masks over implementing widespread mask use.

She told DailyMail.com the CDC needs to 'reevaluate its outdated guidelines' and remove widespread masking recommendations.

The CDC says that when Covid hospital admission levels are low - fewer than 10 per 100,000 people - the CDC says 'people may choose to wear a mask at any time.'

When levels are medium to high - 10 to 19.9 admissions per 100,000 people - the CDC states: 'If you are at high risk for getting very sick, wear a high-quality mask or respirator.

'If you have household or social contact with someone at high risk getting very sick... consider wearing a mask when indoors with them.'

When levels are high - 20 or more admissions per 100,000 people - the CDC says everyone should 'wear a high-quality mask or respirator' and high-risk individuals should consider avoiding non-essential indoor public activities.

Tom Jefferson, an epidemiologist who was the lead author of the Cochrane mask review, said: 'There is just no evidence that they  masks  make any difference.'

The above shows the Covid hospital admission levels in the US by county per 100,000 people. The CDC's face covering recommendations vary based on the hospital admission level in an area

The above shows currently hospitalized Covid-19 patients (blue bars) and the weekly new Covid-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 people (yellow line)

He told journalist Dr Maryanne Demasi that even the tougher N95 mask 'makes no difference' and that studies mask advocates cited to support mandates were 'flawed observational studies.'

Currently, the majority of the US is under the CDC's definition of 'low' for Covid hospital admissions.

States including Arizona, California, Connecticut, Kansas, Maine, Montana, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Texas, Vermont and Wisconsin all either outline guidance similar to that of the CDC or link out to the CDC's website when outlining their recommendations.

This means nearly half of Americans across the country are advised to mask up as hospitalizations increase.

In the 2020 presidential election, all of these states, excluding Kansas and Texas, voted Democratic, the party that has long supported mask mandates and pushed the narrative that masks stop the spread of Covid.

States including Alabama, Florida - Republican states - and Nevada don't have any guidance on mask-wearing.

In Washington state, the health department defers to CDC guidance, but adds that high-risk people cover their nose and mouth when on public transportation.

New Mexico recommends people at high-risk mask when the spread of the virus is elevated in their area.

Massachusetts tells people to consider a mask anytime if they have a weak immune system or are caring for someone at high risk of severe infection.

Kentucky has similar guidelines, with the health department saying people should consider masking up if they are at high risk for serious illness during respiratory disease season.

It comes after Professor Dame Jenny Harries, who leads the UK's Health Security Agency, said recently evidence that masks reduced transmission is 'uncertain' because it is difficult to separate their effect from other Covid curbs.

Dame Jenny cited studies that have shown at least three masks were needed for even a small effect on the spread of viruses.

The above shows the percent positivity of Covid-19 tests in the past week in different regions of the US

Researchers looked at 78 studies involving more than one million people across the world. Results indicated that surgical masks reduced the risk of catching 'Covid or a flu-like illness' by just five percent - a figure so low it may not be statistically significant

She wrote the basis for using face masks in the community 'was, and still is to some degree, uncertain,' noting evidence varied depending on what materials it was made from.

For example, a 'one or two layer cloth covering' is 'not particularly effective', she said.

And if someone doesn't wear it properly  fully covering the mouth and nose  'it won't work', Dame Jenny added.

However, in the US, Director of the CDC Dr Mandy Cohen refused to tell House lawmakers last week that the agency would not once again recommend face masks for children as young as two years old.

The CDC said in a statement to DailyMail.com: 'The science of masking and its impact on SARS-CoV-2 transmission is complex, but the evidence is compelling that wearing masks helps prevent the spread of respiratory disease.

'Well-fitting, properly used masks reduce the spread of COVID-19, especially when worn by the majority of the population during times of high community transmission.

'Masks are a valuable tool to protect people at high risk of getting very sick with COVID-19 and reduce transmission during times of high community spread. Mathematical modeling tools show that studies consistently support the effectiveness of masks in reducing COVID-19 cases.'

Last winter, as cases rose in places across the US, cities like New York, Boston and Philadelphia recommended its residents begin to mask up again.

In December 2022, Washington state, Los Angeles and New York City all urged people to wear face coverings as it battled the winter 'tripledemic' of flu, RSV and Covid.

Philadelphia reinstated indoor mask requirements in schools for two weeks in January.

As recently as September, New York City was encouraging its more than 8million residents to wear masks ahead of the Labor Day weekend as the city dealt with a rise in Covid cases and hospitalizations.

While federal and state health departments stress the importance of masks, the Cochrane Institute analysis of 78 global studies involving more than 1million people found surgical masks reduced the risk of catching 'Covid or a flu-like illness' by just five percent - a figure so low it may not be statistically significant.

A separate Danish study in the spring of 2020 with more than 6,000 participants found wearing a mask made no statistical difference to whether or not people got Covid, but its researchers struggled to find a prominent journal willing to publish the results.

In addition to studies finding face masks don't work, separate ones have also found that face coverings could actually cause harm.

Authors of a review of dozens of studies on face coverings suggested they can cause mild carbon dioxide poisoning when worn over long periods.

Covid is no longer the deadly threat it once was. While weekly new hospital admissions involving the virus have been rising for three weeks - hitting 19,400 during the week ending Nov. 25 - they are still nearly eight times lower than levels seen at the peak in January 2022 and deaths are about 60 times below the peak in late 2020.

Many doctors now compare the virus to the common cold or the flu, which while disruptive and deadly among vulnerable groups, will not cause serious illness in the vast majority of people.

The transition from deadly virus to manageable seasonal illness can be attributed to the high levels of immunity among Americans from previous infection or vaccination, plus an arsenal of highly-effective therapies and drugs.

For these reasons the federal government declared the pandemic over in May this year and ended the public health emergency, scrapping legal requirements to mask, isolate, test and get vaccinated.
Move would follow that of Australia, which made vapes prescription only in 2021

Vapes could be made prescription-only under radical plans being contemplated by Labour.

Shadow health secretary Wes Streeting said he wanted to introduce the Australian-style measures to stop children getting hooked on nicotine.

Despite the devices being legally restricted for sale to over-18s only, data shows nearly one in 10 children in England use the devices, with a fifth having tried a vape this year.

But critics say Labour's proposal risks removing the only health benefit vapes have as a smoking cessation and getting Brits to quit more harmful tobacco.

Mr Streeting's comments comes as the Conservatives are in the midst of their own pledge to tackle child-vaping.

Shadow health secretary Wes Streeting said Labour could make vapes prescription-only to stop children getting hooked on nicotine

NHS Digital data shows the number of children who are current vapers has soared in recent years, jumping from 6 per cent in 2018 to 9 per cent in 2021

NHS Digital data, based on the smoking, drinking and drug use among young people in England survey for the year 2021, showed 30 per cent of children in Yorkshire and the Humber have used a vape

In an ongoing consultation, ministers are proposing to ban child-friendly flavours and marketing, and crackdown on the disposable devices favoured by youngsters.

Mr Streeting accused 'Big Tobacco' and the vaping industry of 'crying crocodile tears' about the child vaping epidemic.

He said the vaping industry should be forced to 'go back to its roots' as providing a smoking cessation aid that is only available to those trying to quit.

Mr Streeting was recently in Australia, which has embarked on similar prescription-only policy for the devices since 2021.

He told The Telegraph that after meeting with Australia's health minister he was now considering a similar move for England should his party come to power.

READ MORE: Woman, 21, needs a life-saving blood transfusion after vaping ONCE caused 'acute chest syndrome' The woman needed a blood transfusion after using a vape. She suffers from sickle cell disease, with those with this genetic condition advised to steer clear of vapes Advertisement

'Im outraged at the extent to which this irresponsible industry has peddled itself as an altruistic smoking cessation service, at the same time as addicting a generation of childrens nicotine,' he said.

'Im looking very carefully at what Mark Butler and the Australian Labor government have announced.

'Their policy is in part driven by the evidence here in Australia that vaping has become a gateway drug to smoking. So I think we need to look carefully at what the UK evidence is on that front.'

He didn't commit to any specific measures for a Labour plan on vaping but said as it is better than smoking it has a role to play in getting Brits to quit traditional tobacco.

John Dunne, director general of the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA), said the Labour plan would simply drive people to the black market like it has in Australia.

'The idea of having vapes only available on prescription has in Australia created a huge black market with unregulated and potentially unsafe vapes widely available,' he said.

He added data showed that vapes weren't a gateway to smoking, with rates having fallen over the years.

While Mr Dunne acknowledged child vaping was a problem, he said it needed to be tackled by penalising people who sell the devices to children.

UKVIA is deeply opposed to Conservatives proposals to ban child-friendly flavours as well as disposable devices.

The body claims research shows 80 per cent of vapers said the flavours offered by manufactures helped them quit smoking, with a third saying a ban could lead them back to using cigarettes.

Some flavours of vapes, like those replicating types of candy, could be banned under new Government plans. Pictured here are devices MailOnline discovered mimicking Chupa Chups, Skittles, Jolly Rancher, Rubicon and Calypso (pictured), with near-identical branding to the popular sweets and drinks

Experts have stressed their concern at children not being fully aware of the contents of e-cigarettes, with many so anxious for their next 'fix' they are begging teachers to let them vape at school

One in 10 Estonian's now vape regularly each month, cementing its position as the e-cigarette capital of the world, fresh data revealed this week. Published by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)  a forum of 37 countries with market-based economies founded in 1961  it also found just four countries rank higher than the UK

UKVIA also said the Government proposals would hit adult vapers, with fruit flavours also popular among people aged 35 to 44.

They also said the average age of someone who uses a disposable vape is 39.

Earlier this week health minister Andrea Leadsom said the Government will bring forward its proposals to tackle child-vaping as legislation 'as soon as possible' in the new year.

Speaking in the House of Commons, she said: 'We all know it is an offence to sell vapes to children under 18, yet one in five children has tried a vape in 2023 alone. The numbers trying it have tripled in the last three years.'

'We know the industry is targeting children quite cynically. It is unacceptable, so our Tobacco and Vapes Bill will restrict the appeal and availability of vapes to children.'

According to the research platform Our World In Data, 13.7 per cent of New Zealanders smoked in 2020 compared to 15.4 per cent of Brits and 23 per cent of Americans

MailOnline previously exposed the predatory tactics some sweet shops use to sell e-cigs to kids.

E-cigs allow people to inhale nicotine in a vapour  which is produced by heating a liquid, which typically contains propylene glycol, glycerine, flavourings, and other chemicals.

But unlike traditional cigarettes, they do not contain tobacco, nor do they produce tar or carbon  two of the most dangerous elements.

Although widely viewed as safer than smoking, the long-term effects of vaping still remain a mystery.

Doctors have expressed fear there could be a wave of lung disease, dental issues and even cancer in the coming decades in people who took up the habit at a young age.

Earlier this year, leading paediatricians warned children were being hospitalised with vaping-induced breathing difficulties amid a 'disturbing' epidemic of the habit among young people.

NHS figures also show a rise in the number of children admitted to hospital due to vaping.

Figures released by the Office for National Statistics in September show around 4.5million Brits vape daily or occasionally  a rise of some 500,000 in just 12 months.
Striking junior doctors were today urged to 'put patients first' and call off nine days of upcoming walk-outs over Christmas and New Year.

NHS bosses have raised 'extreme concern' over the planned walk-outs, orchestrated by the British Medical Association (BMA) to cause carnage during the busiest time of year for hospitals.

Thousands of junior doctors will abandon posts for three days before Xmas, starting on December 20. Another six days of action  the longest in the health service's 75-year history  are pencilled in for January 2.

The walkouts are likely to coincide with a surge in winter viruses as well as casualties from Christmas parties.

Tory MPs last night labelled slammed the BMA for organising another round of NHS strikes. Deputy chair of the Conservative party Lee Anderson branded it a 'slap in the face for patients'.

Junior doctors in England have voted to stage fresh strikes in December and January after talks between the Government and British Medical Association broke down

Another pleaded with junior doctors, who can earn up to 60,000, to just accept the Government's pay offer like other NHS staff groups.

Nurses, physios and paramedics are among NHS staff to have called off strikes after their unions accepted pay deals.

Consultants have negotiated a new offer and will ballot members in the New Year.

Paul Bristow, who sits on the Commons health and social care committee, said: 'The junior doctors have clearly not got the memo that the time for striking over.

'The consultants have reached a deal and the RMT rail union has reached a deal and they have got back to work.'

He added: 'Its time the junior doctors put patients first, accept a fair offer and call off their strikes.

Junior doctors' pay - the truth Junior doctors were awarded a pay rise of 6 per cent plus a consolidated payment of 1,250 in July, in line with the recommendation of the Independent Review Body on Doctors' and Dentists' Remuneration. The package was equivalent to an average increase of 8.1 per cent from 2022/23 to 2023/24, or more than 10 per cent for those in their first year of training. Average basic pay for a first year doctor increased from 29,384 to 32,397, while a junior doctor who had been a specialty trainee for six years or more saw their pay rise from 58,398 to 63,152. Some have also benefited from overtime and enhanced rates for working unsociable hours. Junior doctors pocketed the extra money despite vowing to continue striking, with some boasting the additional income would subsidise further walkouts. Steve Barclay, the then health secretary, and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had described the settlement as final and insisted there would be no more talks about pay. But the British Medical Association has held further negotiations with officials and ministers in the Department of Health and Social Care since October, resulting an offer of an extra 3 per cent, which has been rejected by union representatives. The BMA has claimed that junior doctors have seen their pay eroded by 35 per cent in real terms over the past 15 years. The trainee medics have been demanding full pay restoration and have said they would not settle for anything less, although senior figures within the union have suggested they may compromise. Advertisement

'The last thing the NHS needs at this time of year, when it is dealing with the added pressures of winter, is doctors walking out.'

Mr Anderson said: 'This is nothing but a slap in the face for patients.

'Millions of appointments have already been cancelled thanks to strikes.

'The BMA knows exactly the harm theyre causing by walking out over the busiest time of the year.

'Its about time the BMA read the Hippocratic Oath and put an end to these strikes.'

Ministers and representatives from the BMA have been locked in new negotiations for five weeks, trying to find a resolution to the long-running pay dispute.

But the union said its junior doctors committee voted unanimously for further strikes after accusing the Department for Health and Social Care of failing to put forward a 'credible' offer.

It means junior doctors in England will now walk out from 7am on December 20 to 7am on December 23 and from 7am on January 3 to 7am on January 9.

Junior doctors were offered a 3 per cent rise on top of the average 8.8 per cent increase they already pocketed in the summer.

But the BMA said the cash would have been split unevenly across different medical grades and would 'still amount to pay cuts for many doctors'.

Health commentators expressed dismay at the news, with many raising concerns for patient safety.

NHS leaders have said they will prioritise urgent and emergency care to 'protect patient safety' during the walkouts.

Sir Stephen Powis, national medical director for the NHS in England, warned that the service is likely to face 'another very challenging winter'.

He said: 'It is extremely concerning that the health service is set to face another escalation in industrial action, with the longest consecutive strike in NHS history now planned during one of the most challenging periods of the year.

'Staff across the country have worked incredibly hard to ensure urgent and life-saving care has continued during what is now a full calendar year of strike action, while also delivering progress on our recovery plans.

'As the NHS continues to prepare for what is likely to be another very challenging winter, we will also now prepare to mitigate the impact of the latest strikes this Christmas, once more prioritising urgent and emergency care to protect patient safety and ensure those in life-saving emergencies can receive the best possible care.'

BMA junior doctors committee co-chairman Dr Robert Laurenson said the offer on the table from Government was 'completely insufficient'.

He told LBC radio: 'After five weeks of talks, not enough progress was made and every single member of our committee voted unanimously for further strike action because the 3 per cent offer was completely insufficient to actually begin to address 26 per cent pay erosion that doctors have faced over the last 15 years.

'All were looking for is for that 26 per cent to be restored so we go back to a 0 per cent change from 2008, and that just looks like a doctor starting on about 21 an hour.

Junior doctors will stage the longest strike in NHS history  putting patients at risk and piling more strain on hospitals at their busiest time of year. A demonstration by junior doctors at the Conservative Party Conference in October

Lee Anderson, a Conservative Party deputy chairman, said the industrial action should end

'Were looking at something that actually begins to restore pay for doctors and sets up a road path for the full pay restoration  and, let me just make this clear, we are not asking for this all in one go.'

Dr Vivek Trivedi, co-chairman of the committee, also told BBC Breakfast: 'Weve called these strikes because we havent been able to make enough progress to be able to turn the tide of pay erosion for our doctors.

'The offer that was put forward would have still amounted to a real-terms pay cut for almost 50 per cent of the doctors that I represent this year.

'And thats simply not enough to turn the tide of the plummeting morale and retention that you get when you have further pay cuts and pay cuts every year.'

He added that the tone was 'very different' during recent negotiations: 'It seemed very positive, productive, and we were working towards what we hoped would be the end of our talks.

'But we had a deadline  a prearranged deadline agreed by both sides  and, ultimately, we werent able to shape a deal that we could take to our membership.

'Ultimately we do want to reach a deal, but we know what our members want, and this deal was not that, as shown by the vote in our committee.'

Dr Trivedi said the talks 'dont have to stop' but the Government has previously said it will not enter talks while strikes have been called.

Health Secretary Victoria Atkins has said the Government would 'immediately look to come back to the table' if the junior doctors strikes were called off.

She warned that the walkouts will put extra pressure on the NHS during the busy winter period and 'risk patient safety'.

Her comments come after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged at the start of the year to cut waiting lists and newly appointed Ms Atkins has made tackling the disputes with doctors one of her top priorities.

Ms Atkins language has proved markedly different to that of predecessor Steve Barclay, who referred to the BMA as having a politically 'militant stance'.

NHS leader have also voiced their concern with Sir Julian Hartley, of NHS Providers, which represents health trusts, saying: 'This is the outcome trust leaders were dreading.

He added: 'This will be the longest strike in NHS history during the busiest and toughest time of the year for the NHS.

'These strikes will undermine efforts to cut waiting lists further, they'll have a serious knock-on effect.'

NHS figures show 7.8million patients are currently needing routine treatment, up on the 4.5m logged pre-pandemic.

Last winter, which also saw NHS staff take to the picket lines, was one of the worst on record for the health service in England.

The NHS has now dealt with a full calendar year of strikes, with the first taking place on December 15, 2022.

Britain's Health Secretary Victoria Atkins said it's 'disappointing' new strikes are happening

Strikes by doctors, nurses and physiotherapists have already led to the cancellation of more than a million appointments and operations, costing the NHS more than 1.3billion this year.

While many of the staff groups have resolved their formal disputes over pay, doctors and radiographers are yet to come to a resolution with the Government.

Consultant doctors from the BMA have reached a deal with the Government which will see consultants earn more money from January 2024, although it will not be paid until April 2024.

Englands top hospital doctors are now voting on the deal, which would see them get a pay rise of between 6 and 19.6 per cent.

Talks with specialist, associate specialist and specialty doctors (SAS) in England are continuing.
Michelle Rumball says her 78-year-old mother Violet was left to die because of a PPE shortage, with medics placing a DNR on her to avoid becoming infected.

Kathryn Butcher believes her sister-in-law Myrna would still be alive today had ministers locked down the country sooner in March 2020.

Alan Inglis says his son Callum died 'without dignity' after he became infected in prison and was left to cough up blood without receiving any medical care.

These are just three of the most heartbreaking stories of Brits who've lost loved ones to Covid.

Here, MailOnline tells them in full, including the tales behind the four protesters who held up signs that read 'The Dead can't hear your apologies' as Boris Johnson began giving evidence to the Covid inquiry today.

Dozens more people who have lost family and friends to Covid gathered outside the inquiry, with many holding pictures of loved ones

My mother's life was needlessly taken away

Kirsten Hackman lost her mother, Margaret Watt, during the first wave of Covid in 2020.

Ms Watt was admitted to the Isle of Wight NHS Trust after falling and fracturing her pelvis.

She tested negative when hospitalised but, four weeks later and still in hospital, she tested positive for the virus.

Just 48 hours later, she was placed on the hospice ward and she died on May 2  just two weeks before her 86th birthday.

Ms Hackman said she was able to see her mother in hospital before she died

READ MORE: Boris Johnson sorry for 'pain and loss' of Covid victims: Ex-PM admits he 'should have twigged' earlier how bad pandemic would be Boris Johnson kicked off an epic two-day grilling at the Covid inquiry today as he fends off criticism of his leadership Advertisement

She told The Guardian: 'Her life was needlessly taken away from us, and the most vulnerable in our community have been badly let down by preventable actions.'

Only eight people could attend her funeral, which is 'not what she would have wanted', she added.

My mother wasn't resuscitated due to a PPE shortage

Ms Rumball's mother Violet Partington, 78, was rushed to Northwick Hospital in Harrow, north west London, on April 8, 2020, due to breathing difficulties.

The grandmother-of-13 died hours later.

A few days after her death, her family discovered that a do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DNAR) order had been imposed on Ms Partington.

Ms Rumball told the i that her mother, and other elderly Covid patients, had been 'written off'.

NHS staff claimed that Ms Partington signed the order before medical notes revealed there was no signature, she told The Mirror.

She claimed that the hospital blamed a shortage of PPE that meant it was 'reasonable' for a doctor to sign the DNAR order 'to minimise risk and avoid depleting PPE stocks'.

She told the paper that she hopes the inquiry 'will get some sort of justice for my mum'.

My husband died alone in an unnatural environment

Fran Hall's husband Steve died from Covid on October 18, 2020, just three weeks after they got married and one day before his 66th birthday.

Steve, a retired Metropolitan police sergeant, was suffering from terminal prostate cancer but his health took a rapid downturn in the days following the wedding.

He was taken to hospital in an ambulance eight days after they got married.

She told London funeral website Poppy's: 'In the period before he died, we were totally separated, I couldn't be with him.

'I know that for the last days of his life he was alone in an unnatural environment, with no touch, surrounded by people with their faces covered.

'That's not how human beings should be.'

Ms Hall was able to be with Steve when he died but said 'so many others were denied that'.

A billboard truck takes part in a protest against the scale of the Covid deaths in Britain outside the Covid Inquiry in London ahead of Boris Johnson giving evidence

She joined the Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice Campaign and spent 10 days working on the memorial wall alongside the River Thames.

Ms Hall was invited to Downing Street, along with other campaigners, to meet Mr Johnson and share her story but said she could see 'no flicker of compassion or hurt' behind his eyes, she wrote in The Guardian.

Late Covid lockdown might have killed my sister-in-law

Ms Butcher's sister-in-law Myrna Saunders, 56, died in March 2020.

She told The Guardian: 'Today is probably the hardest [day] for me so far because of the [first] late lockdown.

'Had it come when it should have come there's a chance [Myrna] would not have caught Covid. That was Johnson's decision.

'I think today is going to be emotionally hard. I want to know the truth. I want to make sure my family is protected from this happening again.'

My father was treated like toxic waste

Anna-Louise Marsh-Rees, who leads Covid Bereaved Families for Justice Cymru, today called for 'accountability, not weak apologies' over Government decision-making.

She said: 'My father Ian died of hospital acquired Covid on the 23rd of October 2020. Even if they make excuses for what happened in wave one, there was all that time for prepare for wave two and in-between that crucial period.

'While most of the decisions shaping the response in Wales were made by the Welsh Government, there were many decisions made by UK Government that shaped the response in Wales too.'

Ms Marsh-Rees previously told the inquiry that Ian, 85, died 'gasping for breath' after catching Covid and that his body was treated like 'toxic waste'.

Her father was admitted to a hospital in Abergavenny with a gallbladder infection in 2020. He was moved around the hospital six times in eight days and caught Covid.

Anna-Louise Marsh-Rees, whose father Ian died in October 2020 after catching the virus in hospital and was 'treated like toxic waste', called for 'truth, justice and accountability'

After being discharged, Ian's health quickly deteriorated, leading his wife Valerie to call their GP 13 times and make four visits to out-of-hours services.

Ian was readmitted to hospital, where his condition worsened and he died.

Ms Marsh-Rees told the inquiry in July: 'Once somebody with Covid dies, they are almost treated like toxic waste.

'They are zipped away and nobody told us that you can't wash them, you can't dress them, you can't do any of those things. The funeral, the ceremonies you can't do anything.'

She added: 'When we left the hospital, we were given my dad's stuff in a Tesco carrier bag.

'There's a whole generation, my mum's generation, who haven't got the mechanisms maybe I have to complain and question and they are heartbroken, really in shock.

'My mum cries daily and even though it's nearly three years but we'd like some change to happen in their lifetime.'

Speaking outside the inquiry today, Ms Marsh-Rees said: 'We're fighting for truth, justice and accountability on behalf of our loved ones.'

She took aim at Mr Johnson, calling on him to 'act with integrity and provide the inquiry with honest answers as to why his Government took the decisions it did'.

'If he says today that he got the big things right, I'm not sure how I'm going to be able to sit there,' Ms Marsh-Rees said.

'How is 230,000 deaths not a big thing?

'Over the last seven weeks, we have heard so much that is depressing, distressing, completely incredulous.

'And today, I'm just dreading hearing that the older and vulnerable in our society were collateral damage.

'There must be accountability, not weak apologies. It can't happen again.'

My son died without help or dignity

Mr Inglis, from Scottish Covid Bereaved, today told how his son Callum was left to die from Covid while alone in a prison cell.

He said: 'What I am looking for from Mr Johnson this morning is straightforward answers to simple questions. No skirting around the truth with political waffle.

'Myself and fellow members of Scottish Covid Bereaved were shaken to the core a few weeks back when Mr Johnson's behind closed doors comments of 'let the bodies pile high' first came to light.

'And then, to add insult to us all further, by considering that he go live on TV to have himself injected with the virus to prove that it wasn't that serious.

Alan Inglis, whose son Callum died 'without dignity' after he became infected in prison, said Mr Johnson should provide the inquiry with 'straightforward answers to simple questions'

Bereaved Brits stood outside the Covid Inquiry in London this morning, which will hear from former Prime Minister Boris Johnson over the next two days. Pictured, from left: Anna-Louise Marsh Rees, Aamer Anwar, Alan Inglis and Natalie Rogers

'Well, for his information, Covid-19 claimed the life of my son Callum. He was 34 and, within the Scottish Covid Bereaved group, I know of two other families morning the loss of their sons.

'One, aged 27, and the other, ages with Callum, who left behind a wife and two children.'

Mr Inglis has previously told how Callum was serving a 'short term' at privately-run HMP Addiewell in West Lothian and died 'without help, without dignity'.

He tested positive for Covid on October 12, 2021 but his health 'deteriorated rapidly' over the following 12 days.

However, Callum was not seen by a nurse, despite becoming breathless and 'coughing up significant amounts of blood', according to Mr Inglis.

READ MORE: Britain was 'well down the table' of countries with the highest Covid deaths, Boris Johnson says as he clashes with official inquiry KC who claimed the UK was second worst in Western Europe Giving evidence at the official inquiry, Boris Johnson disputed a suggestion from counsel that the UK's toll had been the second worst in Western Europe Advertisement

He repeatedly asked for medical attention and was promised someone would see him. But not medics showed up and he was found unresponsive in his cell on October 24, 2021.

Mr Inglis has criticised the 'barbaric' care received.

Discussing the Covid Inquiry today, he said: 'The outcome of this inquiry at the very least must provide a future Government with the tools to deal with any pandemic that presents itself again.

'This can be achieved by listening to medical and scientific experts from the outset rather than making up strategies as they go along.'

Dozens more people who have lost family and friends to Covid gathered outside the inquiry, with many holding pictures of loved ones.

Aamer Anwar, the solicitor representing Scottish Bereaved Covid families, said the evidence given to the inquiry so far has exposed 'a deadly culture of impunity, of incompetence, of arrogance and blaming everyone else but themselves'.

He said: 'Boris Johnson is expected to issue an apology this morning.

'Yet he will claim he saved thousands of lives.

'For many of the bereaved, that will be a grotesque distortion of the truth.

'In Boris Johnson's words, instead of solving a national crisis, his Government presided over a told disgusting 'orgy of narcissism'.

'He did let the bodies pile up and the elderly were treated as toxic waste.

'As a result, over a quarter of a million people died from Covid.

'They cannot speak of themselves but their families, the bereaved and all those impacted by Covid deserve the truth today.'

Mr Johnson today told the inquiry: 'Can I just say how glad I am to be at this inquiry and how sorry I am for the pain and the loss and the suffering of the Covid victims'.

However, four people were then removed from the hearing.

Speaking outside the inquiry, Kathryn Butcher, 59, who lost her sister-in-law, told reporters afterwards: 'We didn't want his apology.

'When he tried to apologise we stood up. We didn't block anybody. We were told to sit down.

'We didn't sit down straight away. One of us said stayed standing, so the rest of us came out in solidarity.'
READ MORE: Vets release guidance to keep dogs safe from mysterious disease

The 'mysterious' disease infecting dogs has spread to at least 14 states

A 'mysterious' disease spreading in dogs has now reached at least 14 states, health officials said.

Since August, hundreds of dogs have tested positive for the illness, and several have died - though these are thought to be vast underestimates due to a lack of awareness and testing.

The illness first resembles the common 'kennel cough' virus but could quickly turn to pneumonia when the infection spreads to the lungs and causes breathing problems, fatigue and discharge from the eyes and nose.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is now asking vets to report cases while laboratories work to isolate the pathogen.

Reported symptoms of the disease include a cough that can last for weeks, runny eyes and sneezing

Colorado, California, Indiana, Washington, Georgia, and Oregon are among the states that have reported cases

Colorado, California, Indiana, Washington, Georgia, and Oregon are among the states that have reported cases.

More than 200 dogs in Oregon have tested positive so far.

The Oregon Department of Agriculture described the mystery illness as an 'atypical canine infectious respiratory disease.'

Reported symptoms of the disease include a cough that can last for weeks, runny eyes and sneezing.

The illness could progress and lead to pneumonia, which can result in death within 36 hours.

The disease has been shown to be resistant to common respiratory treatments, such as antimicrobial drugs.

While several dogs are believed to have died from the virus, experts say deaths do not seem to be a large consequence.

Health officials are urging people to ensure their dogs are up to date on all vaccines and reduce contact with other dogs

However, without a clear way to define the disease or test for it, its difficult to determine how many dogs actually have the virus and how many have died from a severe form of the infection.

While the illness remained a mystery for the first few weeks of its appearance, researchers at the University of New Hampshire believe they may have identified the bacteria that's causing it.

Do's and don'ts The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends the following advice for keeping dogs safe from the mysterious illness: Ensure your dog is up-to-date with vaccinations

Avoid large meetings of unknown dogs

Avoid communal water bowls Advertisement

Dr David Needle, a veterinary pathologist who led the research, said it was a 'funky' organism  that is as yet unnamed  and had not been observed before.

His team found the bacteria by performing forensic tests on 70 dogs who'd developed the tell-tale symptoms over the last two years.

Speaking to NBC News, he said this was 'new as a potential cause of disease, but it is likely to be  or to have evolved from  a component of the dog microbiome [millions of bacteria found inside the animals' gut].'

He also described the bacteria as being smaller than other types and said it had few specific genetic characteristics - making it harder to detect.

The disease is spread through droplets in the air when dogs sneeze, cough or bark. No cases have been reported of the disease passing over to humans.

Dr Rena Carlson, president of AVMA, said: 'We just don't know whether it can jump to other species, whether that would be humans or cats. We're watching that really closely.'

Veterinarians have advised owners to steer clear of large meetings of unknown dogs, particularly if the dogs seem sick. This includes daycares, parks, groomers and boarding kennels.

Shared water bowls should also be avoided, and extra caution should be taken when traveling with dogs for the holidays.

The Oregon Veterinary Medical Association said it advises 'caution rather than worry' but urged pet owners to ensure their dog has received all its vaccinations, including for canine influenza, Bordetella and parainfluenza.
Whether it's from lifting too many weights or sitting for long periods in an office chair, putting your back out is part of modern life.

In fact, it happens to around eight in 10 Americans at least once a year, according to studies.

Now, a top New York City physical therapist has demonstrated how five easy exercises can beat the dreaded pain in minutes.

The best part? They can all be done from the comfort of your bed.

The first step is finding a 'comfortable place to lay on your stomach,' explains Dr Dan Ginader, a physical therapist specializing in dance injuries.

He adds that his recommendations are based on a technique called The McKenzie Method.

@dr.dan_dpt Throwing your back out is a common term to describe what happens when your back feels like it locks up. Most often it has something to do with a slight disc injury with concurrent muscle spasm and occasional referral pain down the leg. This is a general template on what you can do in the heat of things to take the edge off of your symptoms. But if symptoms continue despite taking care of it, get into see a professional sooner rather than later!! #physicaltherapy #lowbackpain #backpainrelief  original sound - Dr. Dan, DPT

This revolves around the theory that: 'if rounding the back causes symptoms, then extending the back will relieve them.

'And laying on your stomach allows you to do exactly that, with everything nice and supported,' he says in a clip posted to his TikTok, where he has nearly a million followers.

The second position is propping yourself up on your elbows for some 'extra extension' followed by mini push-ups, keeping the legs on the ground.

Next is 'gentle rotation'.

'Laying on your back, take your knees and drop them to one side until you feel a gentle stretch,' says Dr Ginader. 'Hold about a second and go to the other side.

Physical therapist Dr Dan Ginader shows how to ease back pain using simple movements that can be done from your bed, or living room floor

'Once again, the goal is to keep these fairly gentle and just take what the body gives you. Repeat about 10 or 20 times.'

The fourth movement is what Dr Ginader calls 'sciatic nerve glides'. Many forms of back pain are caused by excess pressure on the sciatic nerve - which runs from the lower back through the hips, buttocks and down each leg.

The strain on the nerve, usually caused by injury, can cause inflammation, pain and sometimes numbness in the leg.

The majority of Americans suffer back pain at some point in their life but simple movements repeated a few times can ease the symptoms, experts say

Sciatic glides aim to alleviate pressure on the nerve and involve bending the leg toward the ceiling while lying on your back, with hands clasped around the back of the knee.

Repeat these 15 times on each leg, Dr Ginader says.

And finally, extending the back using bridges (pushing the pelvis upwards with the knees bent and feet grounded) will also help release any strains or trapped nerves.

If the pain has not eased within three days, Dr Ginader advises seeking medical help.
Boris Johnson today apologised for dismissing long Covid as being 'b*******' and comparing the poorly-understood illness with Gulf War Syndrome.

During an eye-opening grilling at the Covid Inquiry, the ex-Prime Minister said he regretted using that language and argued he was just trying to 'get to the truth' of what the condition was.

Mr Johnson's thoughts were scribbled on an October 2020 document describing symptoms of the condition.

Asked about the memo, he said: 'The words that I scribbled in the margins of submissions about long Covid have obviously been now publicised and I'm sure that they have caused hurt and offence to the huge numbers of people who do indeed suffer from that syndrome.

'I regret very much using that language and I should have thought about the possibility of future publication.'

Boris Johnson laid out the things he thought could have been done differently as he acknowledged that there were inevitably missteps at the start of the pandemic

Boris Johnson wrote in the margins of his notes that long Covid was 'b*******' and compared the poorly-understood illness with Gulf War Syndrome

He said he was trying to 'get to the truth of the matter' of what the syndrome was.

Mr Johnson told the inquiry that he only got a 'proper' paper on long Covid in the summer of 2021.

Pushing back, lead counsel Hugo Keith KC claimed Mr Johnson 'continued to make disparaging references' in February 2021, and again in June 2021.

A WhatsApp message previously shown to the Inquiry, dated February 2021, stated that Mr Johnson wrote: 'Do we really believe in long Covid? Why can't we hedge it more? I bet it's complete Gulf War Syndrome stuff.'

The term refers to unexplained illness complained of by hundreds of thousands of US and UK veterans of the 1991 Gulf War, who were left battling fatigue, memory problems and chronic pain.

Key points in Boris Johnson's Covid evidence Four people left the hearing after standing up as Mr Johnson's evidence began, holding up signs that read: 'The Dead can't hear your apologies.'

Mr Johnson said there were 'strong arguments against going to early' with the initial lockdown ;

He described Covid in January 2020 as being 'like a cloud on the horizon no bigger than a man's hand', saying no-one knew if it would turn into a 'typhoon';

Mr Johnson said at that point there was not enough 'credence' given to the 'mathematical implications' of forecasts, highlighting that previous threats such as SARS and BSE had not triggered the same chaos;

The ex-PM denied taking a 'holiday' over February half-term in 2020, saying he was 'working throughout the period' and had called both Xi Jinping of China and President Trump;

Mr Johnson admitted he had been wrong to boast in March 2020 about shaking hands with 'everybody' on a visit to the Royal Free Hospital in London.

He denied that foul-mouthed WhatsApps showed his team were deeply split and played down internal No10 pressure from Dominic Cummings to sack then-health secretary Matt Hancock, saying that was part of normal cut and thrust in Westminster;

Mr Johnson dismissed Covid era messages showing Cabinet Secretary Simon Case had swiped that he had 'never seen a group of people less suited' for running the country, saying WhatsApps tended to be 'pejorative and hyperbolical';

He appeared to blame the aggressive tone of private exchanges on 'male-dominated' meetings, saying there was better 'gender balance' in his office as London Mayor;

Mr Johnson defended no cracking down on borders in the early phases, saying that scientists did not believe it would work and evidence from other countries suggested they had been right;

When the virus started surging again in Autumn 2020 Mr Johnson said there was an 'appalling problem' over whether to lock down, saying they were concerned about doing the same thing 'over and over again';

The ex-PM denied that the Cabinet was shut out of decisions because it was 'seen by No10 as not being a serious place for serious discussion';

Mr Johnson said the Cabinet was generally 'more reluctant' to impose lockdown restrictions than he was;

About 5,000 WhatsApp messages on Mr Johnson's phone from January 30, 2020 to June 2020 were unavailable to the inquiry. The former premier said he 'didn't know the exact reason' but insisted there had been a technical failure and denied deleting anything. Advertisement

Chemical warfare agents, such as sarin, and post-traumatic stress disorder are possible causes, experts believe.

Mr Johnson told the hearing: 'It's no disrespect to long Covid patients and I saw in the victim impact videos are some of the victims of long Covid, I can imagine what a dreadful thing is.

'But there are also, with Gulf War syndrome, many people who have terrible symptoms for a very long time.

'There are also people who think they may be suffering, I think this is the now accepted, from something associated with the Gulf War, but who are not in fact suffering from something associated with the Gulf War.

'So what I was trying to say was "where is the, where is the line?" And "please can someone explain to me what this is?"

'Because I was getting anecdotal accounts of people who were suffering from it, and I wanted to be able to say what we understood it to be and what we were doing about it.

'And what we were doing about it is fighting Covid, because the way to stop long Covid is to, is to stop Covid.'

Latest data from the Office for National Statistics suggests 1.9million people, or nearly three per cent of the population, had long Covid in March.

Fatigue, 'brain fog' and shortness of breath are the most common self-reported symptoms of the poorly-understood phenomenon, which refers to Covid symptoms that linger for more than four weeks after infection.

While many long Covid sufferers find their symptoms eventually fade, some people experience them for months or even years.

Some experts consider long Covid to be on par with chronic fatigue syndrome, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME).

Commenting on the remarks, Sammie McFarland, chief executive of Long Covid Kids, said: 'Boris Johnson didn't apologise for using the language because it was wrong; he only apologised because he got found out and his actions have caused years of bullying and stigma for people suffering from long Covid.

'We need a sincere apology.

'But more than that we need action and the inquiry to create meaningful and impactful recommendations going forward.

'Johnson also said that people think they are unwell. He needs to recognise that this is a real disease and a consequence of the pandemic alongside the unfortunate deaths and hospitalisations.'

Earlier in the Inquiry, Mr Johnson stressed how 'sorry I am for the pain and the loss and the suffering' of victims of the pandemic.

He acknowledged that 'in hindsight' mistakes had been made, and suggested the danger had been underestimated by scientists in the early stages because the last such crisis was 'outside living memory'.

Mr Johnson said even by early February the government was 'not yet believing' that the 'reasonable worst case' of the virus sweeping Brits would be realised.

He confessed that he became 'really rattled' when he saw the impact on Italy, where hospitals were overwhelmed. 'We should have twigged much sooner... I should have twigged,' he said.

But he rejected the idea that his decisions had resulted in more excess deaths than other parts of the Western world.

Britain was 'well down the table' of countries with the highest Covid deaths, he said after being challenged over being the 'second worst off in Europe'.

In a tetchy exchange with lead counsel Hugo Keith KC, Mr Johnson played down the idea that government decisions had led to a 'materially' larger number of deaths.

He pointed to the aging and dense population as a reason why Britain was hard hit.

And he suggested it is unlikely that earlier restrictions could have avoided the need for a lockdown altogether.

Later in the Inquiry, Mr Johnson choked up as he spoke of Covid's 'tragic' toll.

He had to take a moment to compose himself as he said he had to be 'realistic' about what happened in 2020  a year that also saw him hospitalised with the virus.

Mr Johnson also revealed that major sporting events such as Cheltenham Festival should not have gone ahead in March 2020.

He laid out the things he thought could have been done differently as he acknowledged that there were inevitably missteps at the start of the pandemic.

Mr Johnson also said he should not have shaken hands with 'everybody' at the start of that month.
A young girl from Montana is set to travel over 1,000 miles for therapy to help her crippling OCD which has got so bad she finds it difficult putting on clothes.

Claire Hamnes, 8, suffers from severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), oppositional defiance disorder (ODD), and anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Mom Nichole said her daughter had started showing signs of OCD at a young age, resulting in her daughter being on medication and attending therapy sessions.

Claire is one of an estimated 2.5 million Americans who struggle with OCD, with scientists still not clear on the actual cause of the disorder.

Nichole described her daughter as being 'outgoing and funny', but noted how she struggles to even get dressed for school due to her clothes having too much static.

Speaking to KPAX, Nichole told the outlet: 'At her worst she couldn't look at her clothes and how they were arranged.'

Claire Hamnes suffers from severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), oppositional defiance disorder (ODD), and anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Claire's father, Erik, said Claire describes the clothing as having too much static.

Despite the current medication and therapy sessions, the family have been looking for further help with Claire.

In July, Claire's obsessions and anxiety had escalated to the point that Nichole and Erik considered residential treatment for her.

What is obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)? Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a mental health condition where sufferers face persistent or unwanted thoughts. They may also have compulsions, where they feel compelled to do something again and again, and obsessions, such as uncontrollable and recurring thoughts. An estimated 2.5million Americans have OCD  of which half, or 1.25million, have a severe form. Those in late adolescence, from 17 to 21 years old, are most at risk of developing the condition  but it can also emerge in childhood. Scientists are not clear on the cause but say a combination of genetics, the brain and the environment are thought to be involved. Patients are treated using talking therapies  which focus on helping someone face their fears and obsessive thoughts without trying to 'put them right'  and via medication like antidepressants to shift the chemical structure in the brain. There are two main types of the condition: Mild OCD This term refers to more mild symptoms of OCD  a condition which is thought to be relatively common and affects up to 30 percent of the population. Patients have symptoms such as recurring thoughts on daily activities, like whether they locked the door, or mildly compulsive behaviors, like cleaning frequently. Severe OCD This refers to the intense form of the condition where compulsions and obsessions are so strong that they disrupt someone's daily life. Symptoms can include walking backward unexpectedly while walking with friends or having an obsession with cleanliness. Patients may also have an obsessive need for symmetry and orderliness  such as having all tin labels facing forward. The condition can be so bad that people find it difficult to perform daily activities like eating, drinking, shopping and reading. Some may even become housebound. Patients often also have other health problems, such as depression and social anxiety. Advertisement

Due to her age, pediatric OCD resources for children is extremely limited in the United States.

'Our state, and even some of the surrounding states, don't have any real programs and there are really no other programs in this country that take children as young as her,' Nichole said.

'She started voicing a lot of concerns with sensory issues at about two and a half years old.

'Its really hard to follow her rules because hers is 'just right OCD' and so, whatever her brain is telling her is just right is the rule we have to follow.'

'There are some good days, and good moments. There are also some very challenging moments in-between.'

Nichole and Erik managed to find a residential treatment program called Rogers Behavioral Health in Wisconsin, which they hope will help Claire.

The facility accepts children as young as eight, but when the family found the center this summer, Claire was still just seven.

Nichole told KPAX that they had been told to contact the facility as soon as Claire turned eight, which was last month, and they would be put to the top of the list to receive treatment.

Unfortunately, the family contacted the center as advised but have been told they will need to wait another two to three months until a spot opens up.

Nichole said she would be driving to Wisconsin from their home in Billings, Montana, with her daughter, and will stay for the remainder of her treatment.

She said her daughter was 'sad and mad' when she found out she couldn't go to Rogers Behavioral Health as early as originally thought.

'Its six to eight weeks, but from what Ive heard online from other parents their child has been there upwards of three and a half months.' Nichole said.

Insurance will cover the majority of Claire's stay at the Rogers center but Nichole will have to fork out to stay near the facility to be with her daughter.

As such, the family has launched a GoFundMe page to help them with funding the treatment.

'Due to Claires age and the severity of her obsessions, the hospital suggests having a parent be present throughout the entire program which is estimated to be 6-8 weeks long,' a post to the fundraiser said.

After Claire completes the residential program, a transitional outpatient program lasting a number of weeks is highly recommended.

'The family is looking at thousands of dollars in expenses on top of what they have already spent treating Claires and their own mental health.'

Nichole added: 'The fact we don't have these resources within our state is just devastating.'

Johns Hopkins define ODD as a type of behavior disorder that can make children uncooperative, defiant and hostile.

The University also added that a child with ODD may argue a lot with adults or refuse to do what is asked of them.

While children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention and controlling impulsive behaviors.

Mom Nichole said her daughter had started showing signs of OCD at a young age, resulting in her daughter being on medication and attending therapy sessions

Nichole and Erik, seen here with Claire and her brother, are hoping the residential care will help their daughter

People with ADHD have little control over these behaviors as they stem from underlying neurological differences.

ADHD can cause significant functional disability throughout the lifespan and in all areas of life, and without appropriate intervention can lead to significantly unfavorable outcomes.

However, with evidence-based treatment and support, people with ADHD can embrace their strengths and interests, learn to manage their challenges and live a full and rewarding life.
Former KFC employees have revealed the dire work conditions they faced as teenagers as the fast food giant is hit with a landmark class action.

Two ex staff members, who worked at the company from as young as 14, told Daily Mail Australia they were routinely denied mandatory 10-minute paid breaks during the long shifts that could last up to 12 hours.

Shine Lawyers are representing the pair and thousands of other employees, including one girl who said she took up smoking just to get a break.

The group claim they were denied their entitled 10-minute rest pauses on shifts longer than four hours.

The law firm filed the case on Monday with the support of the Retail and Fast Food Workers Union.

Thousands of KFC workers who claim they were regularly denied 10-minute paid breaks have joined a class action against the fast food giant (stock image)

Worker A* worked at KFC from 14 to 17 years old and claimed she was never given a rest pause, despite often working upwards of 40 hours a week.

'When I was hired, I was told we were entitled to a 10-minute rest pause if we worked more than four hours but I never got one,' she said.

'They tended to cut people from shifts if it was slow. So instead of getting the 10-minute pause, they'd send a worker home to save money.

'They found workers who they knew, if they stressed and pushed them enough, could do the work of two or three people without a break.

'What they didn't take into account, or maybe didn't care about, was that doing these long shifts, not getting breaks and doing the work of multiple people takes a physical and mental toll, especially on minors.'

Worker A claimed she once worked a shift from open, starting at about 9am, to close, around midnight, at just 15-years-old.

'I do remember them asking us to work over the hours you're meant to work in a day and they'd still only give a half-hour lunch break with no pauses,' she said.

'When you're a kid, you want to please the managers. You won't cause a fuss, even with the rest pauses.

'If you get told no, you're not going to turn to an adult and say, "I deserve this", you say "okay".'

Daily Mail Australia spoke to two former employees who said they never received paid 10-minute breaks

Worker B* worked at KFC from 14 to 17 years old.

She claimed during that time she was never given a 10-minute rest and was often asked to cut her 30-minute break short to 'help out' other team members.

'I was never told about the 10-minute pauses. The first time I heard about it was during an online training module,' she said.

Worker B said she was working three short shifts a week when she first started at KFC but claims she quickly felt pressured to take on more hours.

'After a month or two, I started working nearly every day after school and all weekend,' she said.

'The longest shift I had was doing a close one night where we finished at 3am, then I had an open the next day so had to be back at the store at 7am and ended up working through to close again.

'It was about 17 hours, after finishing at 3am the day before, and I was given a half-hour break.'

Worker B claimed she went on to regularly work extremely late night shifts during the school week.

'I'd go to school, walk an hour to work, work all night, do a close, get home for a quick sleep then go back to school just to do it all over again,' she said.

'No-Doze and Red Bull were a saviour.

'The managers would lecture us for taking so much caffeine but they wouldn't let us sit down to take a break.'

One worker said she was only given a half-hour break during a 7-hour shift at just 15-years-old

The long hours and heavy prioritisation of KFC over studying and her health saw Worker B's school results start to suffer.

The situation reached a peak when she had to sit her Year 10 exams but was too tired to concentrate.

'It was awful. I did all my exams in a seperate room,' she said.

'I did them in the teacher's room because I was so overwhelmed and exhausted.

'Then I ended up rushing to finish so I could get to my KFC shift on time.'

Worker A believes the friendship between employees and managers, who often worked at stores for several years before promotion, meant staff felt 'guilty' for wanting a break or denying overtime.

'I definitely think as a kid, I looked at things as, "Oh, if they're a manager, they know what they're meant to do and they'll do the right thing",' Worker A said.

'Now that I reflect on it, the fast food model is so flawed because you have these kids that build up friendships working with other kids in the store.

'Then they turn 18 and suddenly they're managing them.

'KFC, in my opinion, didn't take steps to minimise that. There was no impartial party, and limited access to HR. It was the same people who grew up in the store, just in a different role.'

When approached by Daily Mail Australia about the workers' claims, a KFC spokesperson said: 'KFC Australia takes all obligations under the Fair Work Act and KFC National Enterprise Agreement very seriously, including the obligation to allow employees take the paid rest breaks they are entitled to.

'We will be responding to the claim made in the Federal Court in due course.'

All current and former KFC employees who were denied 10-minute rest pauses on shifts over four hours have been encouraged to join Shine Lawyer's class action against the company.

Joint Head of Class Actions Vicky Antzoulatos says the allegations point to a potential complete failure by KFC to protect the welfare of its staff.

Australians who worked at KFC between December 4, 2017 and December 4, 2023, and were denied a paid 10-minute break have been encouraged to join the class action

'Our claim is likely to allege that vulnerable workers were not provided the rest breaks they were entitled to,' she said.

'Many of these workers were just kids facing tough working conditions, who would not have had the confidence or knowledge to speak up and demand the breaks they were owed.'

To be a part of the class action, you must have been a current or former KFC Australia worker between December 4, 2017 and December 4, 2023 and not receive at least one 10-minute paid break which you were entitled to.

To join, visit shine.com.au/kfc.
A prominent Indigenous community advocate says colonisation is partly to blame for the high rates of child sexual abuse in remote Aboriginal communities.

Marcia Ella-Duncan was part of a panel on SBS show The Point discussing the political future for Indigenous Australians after the Voice to Parliament referendum was defeated.

Ms Ella-Duncan, who was the first Indigenous netballer to play for the Australian Diamonds, said Opposition leader Peter Dutton and Coalition senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price 'highlight (sexual abuse in) remote communities.

'The abuse of children happens in every community, amongst wealthy people, poor people, it doesn't matter, it doesn't have racial barriers,' she said.

'But one of the things that I find deeply offensive ... is that they single out remote communities.'

A prominent Indigenous community advocate has said colonisation is partly to blame for the high rates of child sexual abuse in remote Aboriginal communities. Stock photo

Ms Ella-Duncan acknowledged that 'Child sexual abuse in Aboriginal communities is much worse, to my knowledge, both statistically and anecdotally in our communities.

'But the whole issue of child sexual abuse needs to be understood ... in context of colonisation and living in poverty and the impacts of drug and alcohol abuse and inter-generational trauma,' she said.

'It's not just that somebody comes along and says "Here's a kid that's neglected, I'll go and do terrible things to them."

The advocate, three of whose brothers played rugby for the Wallabies, said the issue of child sexual abuse in remote Aboriginal communities is 'very complex'.

'In order to deal with it, we have to deal with a lot of the underlying issues as well,' she said. 'We don't have a voice to do that.

'And in fact, of the many inquiries (into the issue), in most jurisdictions ... have all said the same thing, that the solutions lie in Aboriginal communities.'

She added that 'our local communities need to be resourced and empowered to develop the solutions.

'Now, (those reports have) been sitting on the shelf gathering dust for 10 years.'

The show's co-host Narelda Jacobs then added that 'perpetrators of child sexual abuse against First Nations children are not necessarily First Nations people'.

In October, Ms Price slammed the federal government after it dismissed her attempts to have a formal inquiry into the persistent very high levels of sexual abuse of Indigenous children.

In an 11-minute video, she said she had 'never been so incredibly furious', at several stages fighting back tears as she described why this matter is so important to her.

During her appeal to the government and cross bench to support a Royal Commission, Ms Price shared several real life examples of First Nations children being sexually abused.

One such story involved her niece, who at 15 years old was 'beaten and raped by her own father'.

Ms Ella-Duncan (pictured) said Opposition leader Peter Dutton and Coalition senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price 'highlight (sexual abuse in) remote communities

'(She) suffered horrific abuse for years and tried at first to get support with family who didn't believe her.

'It wasn't until my cousin took her to police so she could make a report, and she had the incredible courage to be heard at the age of 17 and testify,' Ms Price said.

'The judge in her case said the abuse had been protracted, prolonged and involved the use of weapons.'

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For generations the humble cup of tea has been synonymous with Britishness, it is the nation's liquid heartbeat.

Whether you have it with sugar or without, with milk or just a slice of lemon, it is the go-to beverage for every problem, celebration and moment of anguish.

But a new BBC radio series has delved into the darker history of the great British cuppa, revealing its role in the trafficking of opium and subsequent war with China.

Presented by historian Sathnam Sanghera, Empire of Tea also delves into the drink's long association with India and how it first became popular in Britain amongst high society figures and royalty in the 17th century.

But contributor William Dalrymple's claim in the programme that 'extortion, corruption and bloodshed' took place to give Britons their brew has provoked criticism, with one rival expert branding his claims a 'guilt-tripping expedition'.

British workmen are seen having a tea break in the 1950s. For generations the humble cup of tea has been synonymous with Britishness, it is the nation's liquid heartbeat

Queen Victoria was enlisted to talk up the superior quality of tea made in India, which was part of the British Empire. Above: The Queen taking tea during a visit to Nice with her daughter and granddaughter-in-law

Tea was first brought to British shores from China in the mid 1600s, but was initially the preserve of royalty, aristocrats and the very rich.

It was made more popular by the arrival of Catherine of Braganza, the Portuguese royal who became Queen of England when she married Charles II in 1662.

Her court brought expertise from Portugal's own explorations to Britain.

More tea knowledge came to English shores in 1688, when the Glorious Revolution installed the Dutch William of Orange on the throne.

However, tea remained a luxury until the end of the 18th century, with a pound of the black stuff then costing a British labourer the equivalent of nine months' wages.

The ritual of afternoon tea arrived much later, in the Victorian era.

The tradition is believed to have kicked off when the well-to-do Duchess of Bedford took to enjoying a cake or crustless sandwich with a cup of Darjeeling tea when she wanted an afternoon energy boost.

Indian villagers are seen picking tea on a plantation in India in 1900. By then, British imports of tea from India vastly outweighed shipments from China

Tea pickers are seen at work in a warehouse in India as their manager looks on

It quickly caught on among fashionable households, with sales of china tea sets soaring to accommodate them.

Tea drinking spread further in the 19th century, when it was promoted as a less harmful alternative to beer, port and gin that were being consumed in huge amounts.

The dominant in the tea trade was the East India Company, which had been formed in London at the end of the 16th century.

At its peak, the private firm - regarded as the first great multi-national company - had its own army and the right to mint its own money.

By the late 18th century, tea made up 60 per cent of the East India Company's trade, generating enormous tax revenue for the British government.

To buy tea at a more reasonable price, the East India Company helped fuel the illicit opium trade.

They smuggled opium grown in India into China and sold it to willing Chinese traders, and then used the proceeds to buy tea.

Tea was made more popular by the arrival of Catherine of Braganza, the Portuguese royal who became Queen of England when she married Charles II in 1662

Queen Elizabeth II delighted the country when she took tea with Paddington Bear to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee in June 2022

The First Opium War, which was fought between 1839 and 1842, ended in defeat for China

The East India Company sold opium to the Chinese in return for money which they used to buy tea. Above: A critical French cartoon showing British traders selling opium in China

But Mr Dalrymple, the author of a critical history of the East India Company, said the organisation was viewed by 'furious' Britons as 'we would look on narco operators today'.

He said they were seen as 'people operating at the very edge of legality, if not entirely illegally, who are making profits through the sufferings of others.'

Responding, Dr Zareer Masani, an expert on the British Empire, told MailOnline: 'Opium was widely used. It was very much a social drug used in moderation in Chinese upper class circles.'

He added: 'Tea came from China and opium went to China but it ignores the fact that this was demand-led, it actually created employment, although maybe dubious by today's standards.

'This is a very unhistorical way of labelling the East India Company as corporate raiders.'

The decision by Chinese emperor to enforce a ban on the opium trade in 1839 triggered military conflict with Britain.

All traders were forced to surrender their opium, which was then burnt in public.

With British traders left furious at the confiscation of what they regarded as their property, the government stepped in and locked swords with China in the First Opium War.

The conflict, which lasted until 1842, ended in a decisive defeat for China.

The Second Opium War, between 1856 and 1860, forced a broken China to legalise the opium trade once again.

However, by then, the East India Company had turned to trying to establish tea plantations in India.

Scottish botanist Robert Fortune disguised himself as a Chinese botanist to get into China and then take live tea plants to India.

He also took with him nine workers with intimate knowledge of how to grow tea to a high standard.

Throughout the 1830s and 1840s, dozens of plantations were established in the Assam region of India.

Whilst Chinese tea remained a luxury product, the Indian variety was marketed as a patriotic drink that had been made in the British Empire.

Queen Victoria was also enlisted to help with the propaganda efforts. She talked up the quality of Indian-grown tea after tasting it.

By 1900, Chinese tea - which had previously made up nearly all of British imports - accounted for just 10 per cent of consumption Britain.

British workers had by then been consuming tea in huge quantities for more than a century. The average tea consumption in 1900 was a staggering 6lb a year.

Tea went from being the preserve of the very rich to an everyday drink for most Britons

Workers at a pipe factory are seen enjoying a cup of tea and drawing on their pipes

Historian Lizzie Collingham, the author of the Hungry Empire, tells in the BBC programme how 'sugary tea quite literally fuels the industrial revolution'.

'Ten to 15 per cent of calories, energy, for the workers in the mills, in the iron works, was coming from sugar in the tea,' she said.

She added: 'Between 1663 and 1773, in those 100 years, the increase in consumption is synchronized, its in tandem.

'So I think its 15-fold for tea and 20-fold for sugar. They go up together.'

The tea break even became a source of industrial unrest in the 1970s and 1980s.

In 1981, workers at British Leyland's Longbridge car plant in Birmingham went on a 10-day 'tea break strike' after bosses tried to cut the lengths of the twice-daily breaks they took to have a brew.

Eventually the strikers won a partial victory, with bosses agreeing to a smaller cut in break times.
Republican 2024 candidates are in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, for the fourth presidential primary debate at 8pm on Wednesday to stake their claim as the top challenger to Donald Trump.

The former president is up by 40 points in some polls, leaving the rest of the field to battle for second with less than six weeks until the crucial Iowa caucuses.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, biotech entrepreneur and author Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie qualified to debate, the Republican National Committee (RNC) announced on Monday evening.

The showdown is the smallest yet of the 2024 primary election and the qualifications set by the RNC to make the stage were the most strict so far.

It is also expected to be the most tense as fired-up presidential hopefuls go head-to-head in a race largely seen as a battle for second place behind former President Donald Trump, who is dominating in nearly ever single poll.

DailyMail.com breaks down what to watch Wednesday evening and how to tune-in for the face-off.

Four candidates qualified to participate in the fourth Republican presidential primary debate in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Wednesday, December 6. Donald Trump is skipping again  and South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum dropped out of the race since the last debate

FOURTH REPUBLICAN PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY DEBATE DETAILS

NewsNation is hosting the fourth debate on December 6 at the University of Alabama's Frank Moody Music Building in Tuscaloosa. This is the first time a presidential primary debate is being held in the deep red state.

Moderators are former Fox News anchor and current SiriusXM host Megyn Kelly, NewsNation's Elizabeth Vargas and Washington Free Beacon Editor-in-Chief Eliana Johnson.

The debate will kick off at 8pm and conclude at 10pm EST. It will be live-streamed on NewsNation's website NewsNationNow.com and on Rumble  which emerged in recent years as an anti-censorship alternative to YouTube.

For Eastern and Central time zones, Nexstar's The CW will broadcast the debate. Viewers in Mountain and Pacific time zones can tune-in with their local CW affiliates to watch the debate from 7-9pm MT and 8-10pm PT.

Additionally, an audio broadcast of the debate is available on SiriusXM's Triumph channel 111.

Debate moderators are former Fox News anchor and current SiriusXM host Megyn Kelly, NewsNation's Elizabeth Vargas and Washington Free Beacon Editor-in-Chief Eliana Johnson.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE DEBATE AND WHICH CANDIDATES MADE THE CUT

To make the stage, candidates faced their largest uphill battle yet, with Gov. Christie nearly missing out.

Candidates were required to amass 80,000 donors, with at least 200 donors each from 20 different states or territories.

Each contender also had to receive 6 percent support in two different national polls. Alternatively, they could earn 6 percent in one national poll and 6 percent in two separate state-wide polls in an early primary contest state - Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada or South Carolina.

Christie told radio host and third debate moderator Hugh Hewitt on November 15 that he had met the qualifications to debate. But there were concerns the polls he was referencing were not approved by the Republican National Committee, which organizes the events.

The RNC confirmed on Monday that Christie would be joining DeSantis, Haley and Ramaswamy.

North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, who failed to qualify for the third and fourth debate, announced Monday he was suspending his campaign.

South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott dropped out just days after participating in the third debate in Miami, Florida, in early November.

Between the second and third debates, former Vice President Mike Pence also ended his run.

Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson only qualified for the first debate, but has not put an end to his candidacy.

Meanwhile, Dallas-area businessman and pastor Ryan Binkley has not made the stage once, but is still holding onto his bid.

WHAT IS DONALD TRUMP DOING?

Trump has far exceeded the qualifications to debate for every event, but has refused to show up.

The ex-president says that the debates are beneath him considering the massive polling lead he holds above the rest of the field.

He also won't sign an RNC pledge to support the eventual 2024 GOP nominee, which candidates are required to agree to in order to take the stage.

Trump has spent all the debates so far running his own events.

For the first debate, he sat-down with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson for a wide-ranging interview that began airing just five minutes before eight of his competitors took the stage in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

In September for the second debate, Trump was in Wisconsin speaking to auto workers picketing for better pay, hours and benefits while seven others were in Simi Valley, California debating at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.

The latest in Miami, Florida last month saw Trump holding a rally just 15 minutes down the road the night of the debate.

This time, it's unclear what Trump is doing the night of the debate, but the day before, on Tuesday, his pre-taped town hall with Fox News host Sean Hannity will air at 9pm.

Speculation ensued that Trump would finally show on Wednesday after DailyMail.com obtained an image of the debate stage last month showing hosting network NewsNation was preparing five podiums on the debate stage at the University of Alabama.

But images since then have shown there are only four podiums on stage for DeSantis, Haley, Ramaswamy and Christie.

CANDIDATES' PRE-DEBATE PREPARATIONS

In the lead-up to the latest debate, DeSantis completed the 'full Grassley' in Iowa, meaning he visited all 99 of the early primary contest state's counties before the caucuses.

But in response to Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds' post lauding DeSantis' feat, Ramaswamy wrote that he will actually be visiting all of the counties at least two times.

'Some candidates boast about doing the 'Full Grassley' - visiting all 99 counties in Iowa,' Ramaswamy wrote Monday on X, formerly Twitter. 'Proud to announce I'll be the first presidential candidate in history to do all 99 counties *twice over* in less than a year.'

'We'll hit it by first week of January,' he previewed. 'We'll lead America with the same effort that we're running this campaign.'

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis completed over the weekend the 'full Grassley'  meaning he campaigned in all 99 of Iowa's counties before the caucuses on January 15

Ramaswamy said on X, formerly Twitter, that DeSantis' feat isn't impressive, claiming that by the first week of January, he will have visited all 99 Iowa counties at least twice

Ramaswamy was also the only candidate that held a pre-debate event in Alabama on Tuesday evening with a reception at the Ross Bridge Resort in Birmingham  about an hour from the debate location in Tuscaloosa.

DeSantis, in the lead-up to the debate, also participated in a one-on-one debate with California Gov. Gavin Newsom just six days prior where the two governors presented to Fox News' Sean Hannity their conflicting approaches to governing their states.

'Ron DeSantis dominated Gavin Newsom last week by vigorously articulating why his conservative record and vision for the future represents the best way forward for the country when contrasted with the Biden-Newsom agenda,' DeSantis' communications director Andrew Romeo told DailyMail.com.

He added: 'We are now eager to go back to the primary and remind Republicans why Ron DeSantis is the only one on stage who can defeat Donald Trump for the nomination and Joe Biden for the White House to ensure those liberal policies are reversed and America's revival gets kicked off.'

The Florida governor was also the biggest spender on ads so far in the 2024 primary race with his campaign and PACs putting up $46 million in television, radio and digit ads, according to a Financial Times analysis.

He zoned-in on Iowa, spending nearly half to persuade Republicans in the first-in-the-nation primary contest state to caucus for him on January 15.

While DeSantis spent the most, he has also been the most targeted candidate with his competitors and their affiliated entities spending $26.7 million on attack ads against him.

Haley's $16.4 million spending in Iowa is far dwarfed by DeSantis' $20.6 million in the state.

A new analysis from Financial Times shows 2024 candidates have spend a combined $250 million to TV, radio and digital ads so far

POLLING AHEAD OF THE DEBATE

The debate's hosting network NewsNation released a poll this week showing 60 percent of Republican voters still preferring Trump as their top choice for the 2024 nominee.

Meanwhile, DeSantis came in distant second with 11 percent and Haley in third with 10 percent. Ramaswamy came in fourth with 6 percent and Christie with just 3 percent.

The NewsNation/Decision Desk HQ poll shows nearly two-thirds of Republicans  64 percent  think Trump is still the best candidate to fix the economy, which is one of, if not the largest, issue to voters going into the 2024 election.

'The clear takeaway here is that Trump's support is not only very broad but very deep,' said NewsNation's political and economic contributor Mick Mulvaney, previously a Trump administration acting White House chief of staff.

The latest is consistent with national polling averages tracked by FiveThirtyEight, which show Trump with 59.2 percent support in the 2024 Republican primary.

In nearly all national polls Trump comes in first, DeSantis second, Haley third, Ramaswamy fourth and Christie fifth.

Polls in Iowa in recent months, however, have shown DeSantis and Haley tying in second place behind Trump.

Besides those early primary states, Trump is also ahead in some battleground swing state key to clinching the Republican nomination, including Georgia and Arizona.

In both swing states, Trump is better poised than Haley and DeSantis to win, according to an exclusive DailyMail.com poll.

Outside of the primary race, the polling shows that Trump is also ahead of President Joe Biden in the same two states.

Arizona and Georgia are two of the most closely watched and fought over states in the year ahead of 2024 considering their results could determine who takes a victory in the general election.

In Arizona, Trump is ahead of Biden by 5 percent and in Georgia he is up by 3 points.

Biden, however, leads his likely 2024 competitor in swing state of Wisconsin by 5 percent.

In 2016, Arizona, Georgia and Wisconsin all handed their Electoral College votes to Trump before flipping to Biden in 2020.

'The fourth debate is another fantastic opportunity for our Republican candidates to share our winning agenda with the American people,' RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel said in a statement announcing the lineup.

'President Reagan was the first sitting president to visit the University of Alabama nearly 40 years ago, just before cruising to a landslide victory in 1984, and I'm thrilled to return our conservative message to Tuscaloosa on Wednesday night,' she said ahead of the debate.
Former President Donald Trump is the Republican candidate best placed to beat Joe Biden in the critical swing states of Arizona and Georgia, according to an exclusive DailyMail.com/J.L. Partners poll, but Nikki Haley can beat the Democratic candidate in Wisconsin.

The results undermine one of the key arguments being made by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Haley: That they are more electable than Trump.

In fact, our swing states poll shows that while Trump beats Biden by five points in Arizona, DeSantis can only tie and Haley loses by two points.

In Georgia, Trump beats Biden in a head-to-head contest by two points, but DeSantis loses by six points and Haley loses by one.

Things are different in Wisconsin. There Biden would beat Trump and DeSantis by four points if the 2024 election were held tomorrow, but would lose to Haley by one percentage point.

J.L. Partners surveyed 550 likely voters in each of three key swing states: Arizona, Georgia and Wisconsin. The results carry a margin of error of 4.2 percent

Trump is ahead of Biden in national opinion polls with almost a year to go. But polling state by state, particularly in key battlegrounds, gives a clearer view of the electoral college result

READ MORE: Economic worries and political weariness in Atlanta's bellwether precinct give a taste of 2024 Advertisement

All the results carry a 4.2 percent margin of error, but show that in at least two of the crucial battlegrounds how Trump is the strongest Republican challenger to Biden.

'These are good results for the Trump campaign: Trump is the best-placed to beat Biden in both Arizona and Georgia,' said James Johnson, co-founder of J.L. Partners, which conducted the poll.

'Haley can take heart from the results in Wisconsin however. While DeSantis and Trump trail Biden, Haley almost pulls Biden to a draw with independents and therefore claims the state by a margin of one point overall.

'DeSantis looks a little out in the cold in these results: he comes short of mobilizing the GOP base to the extent that Trump does, while not matching Haley's performance amongst independents either.'

Haley and DeSantis will do battle on Wednesday in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, scene of the fourth Republican debate.

They are fighting it out for second place behind Trump.

Haley has gained momentum in recent weeks on the back of strong debate performances and key endorsements.

She has leaned into the idea that Trump is a divisive politician.

'We have to face the fact that Trump is the most disliked politician in America,' she said during the first debate in Milwaukee. 'We can't win a general election that way.'

Trump has lead over Biden in Georgia (which the Democrat won by just 0.2 percentage points in 2020) but Haley and DeSantis come up short in our poll of 2024 intentions

Haley and DeSantis clashed repeatedly in last month's third Republican debate in Miami, Florida, as they aim to position themselves as the best alternative to Trump

There is good news for Haley in Wisconsin. Our poll suggests that, if the election were held tomorrow, she would beat Biden in a head-to-head contest, while DeSantis and Trump lose

Last week she won the backing of the influential Koch network, which has a deep war chest for conservative candidates.

'Nikki Haley, at the top of the ticket, would boost candidates up and down the ballot, winning the key independent and moderate voters that Trump has no chance to win,' said its Americans for Prosperity Action group.

To test out that point, J.L. Partners polled 550 likely voters in three key swing states. They were asked who they could vote for in a general election that pitted Biden against Trump, DeSantis or Haley in head-to-head contests.

The poll results outline her strength and her weakness: Although Haley does better than other Republicans at winning over Democratic voters and independents, Trump's former United Nations ambassador loses a potentially decisive swath of 2020 Republicans.

Our flow charts illustrate how that works. In Arizona, Trump won 48 percent of the vote in 2020 but as things stand Haley would win only 36 percent of the vote (12 points fewer than the former president this time around in a head-to-head contest with Biden).

A swath of the lost voters say they simply would not turn out in 2024 if she is on the ballot.

However, Haley on the ballot is less of a push factor for Biden supporters than Trump. So Biden can manage only 38 percent against her but 43 against the more polarizing figure of Trump.

In Wisconsin, things are different. There she appears to win over enough graduates to edge out Biden.

In our poll, Haley loses members of the Trump base, but wins over some direct Biden switchers and reduces turnout for the Democratic candidate. In Wisconsin it might be enough to win

Four candidates are due to take the stage for the fourth Republican debate in Tuscaloosa, Florida on Wednesday (from left): Chris Christie, Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy

DeSantis has also tried to position himself as a Republican candidate who does not carry the sort of baggage that puts off independent voters. He can point to a landslide victory in Florida last year as evidence that he is a winner.

'Donald Trump's a lot different guy than he was in 2016,' DeSantis said during the third Republican debate in Miami last month, a day after disappointing election results for the GOP.

'He said Republicans were gonna get tired of winning. Well, we saw [Tuesday] night I'm sick of Republicans losing. In Florida I showed how it's done.'

The pair stepped up their attacks on each other this week as they prepared for the fourth debate.

DeSantis used a Newsmax TV interview to claim that Haley was not a real conservative, while her spokesman hit back saying he was lying to try to kickstart a failing campaign.
The Afghan refugee accused of a sex attack on a woman just days after he was freed by the government was previously acquitted of rape after a string of assaults on elderly women.

Aliyawar Yawari, 65, is a convicted sex offender who was branded a 'danger to the Australian community' by a judge after he attacked three women and kicked down the door of an ageing mother.

But he was freed by Home Affairs minister Clare O'Neil's department after last month's High Court ruling found indefinite detention was unlawful.

The father-of-six was accused of a cynical rape attack in 2013 before he launched a further two more assaults on elderly women around South Australia in 2014.

In his final attack, he molested one 64-year-old woman in her own home before smashing her on the neck with a walking stick.

Now he has been re-arrested just a few weeks after his release from detention when a woman at an Adelaide motel alleged she had been attacked by him.

Aliyawar Yawari, 65, is a convicted sex offender who was branded a 'danger to the Australian community' by a judge after he attacked three women and kicked in the door of one mother

Since his release from Western Australia's Yongah Hill detention centre (pictured) Yawari has been staying at motels

Afghani-born Yawari emigrated to Australia after leaving his family behind in Pakistan where they had fled when his father and brother were killed by the Taliban.

He was originally held in detention on Christmas Island for three months before he was allowed to live in Brisbane where he worked at a meat factory.

He later moved to Bordertown, South Australia, near the state's border with Victoria, but he was accused of raping and assaulting a local woman in 2013.

He then attacked two more elderly women in rural parts of the state between October 2013 and December 2014 while awaiting trial on the rape charge.

Mount Gambier District Court heard Yawari was one of several Afghani and Pakistani meatworkers employed in Bordertown who knew the alleged rape victim.

The court heard he met her in the town centre and invited her back to his home for a drink before Yawari - now drunk - suddenly became angry and started a row.

The victim tried to leave, but Yawari slammed the door shut and pushed her into the lounge, and pinned her arms down before punching her in the face repeatedly.

'The offender, according to the complainant, held her down on the lounge and tried to have intercourse with her,' Judge Paul Cuthbertson said in his sentencing remarks.

He was alleged to have raped her in the home, but the jury found him not guilty on that charge although he was found guilty of assault causing harm.

The victim told the court in an impact statement that she no longer trusted others, especially men, like she once did.

'She was once a free and easy person, accepting most people and cultures,' the judge told the court.

'She no longer feels comfortable being intimate with anybody and cannot see herself having a partner in the future.'

The rape trial took three years to reach a verdict and sentencing - but in the meantime, Yawari had struck twice more.

'What is most concerning is that the offender has since committed further similar offences,' said the judge as he sentenced Yawari in 2016.

'On 14 July 2014 at Kilburn the offender, heavily intoxicated, knocked on the front door of an elderly woman's home where she was home with her three children.

'She told him to leave but he persisted and kicked in the front door and smashed in a window.'

Aliyawar Yawari moved to Bordertown, South Australia, (pictured) near the state's border with Victoria, but he was accused of raping and assaulting a local woman in 2013

The court heard he met the victim in the centre of Bordertown (pictured) and invited her back to his home for a drink before Yawari - now drunk - suddenly became angry and started a row

Yawari was arrested but claimed he had no memory of the incident and escaped with a three-month jail sentence which was suspended for 12 months.

But on December 29, 2014, just one month after receiving the suspended sentence, he turned up armed with alcohol at the home of a 64-year-old woman.

'There was some degree of socialising between them,' said Judge Cuthbertson.

'He then indecently assaulted her by lifting her shirt and grabbing her breasts and attempting to put his hand down her trousers.'

The victim tried to kick him out of the house but as she turned her back on him, Yawari hit her on the neck with a walking stick.

Yawari finally faced jail over that attack and was sentenced to two years in prison, along with the three months which had previously been suspended.

Judge Cuthbertson slammed Yawari as he jailed him for a further 20 months for a total of three years and 11 months, with a minimum non-parole period of two years and eight months.

'This is now the third offence involving a lone elderly woman with sexual overtones to it,' the judge told the court.

'The offender is making himself a danger to the Australian community.

'These two other offences are not previous convictions but they are a pointer to his likely rehabilitation.'

Once he was finally freed from jail, he was moved to an immigration detention centre and remained locked up until the High Court decision prompted his release last month.

He told media in Perth he was 'happy' to have been freed after years in jail and detention and added: 'I just want a new job.'

But on Monday Yawari appeared in the Adelaide Magistrates Court less than a month after he walked free from Yongah Hill Immigration Detention Centre in Western Australia.

Police arrested Yawari at the Pavlos Motel in Pooraka in Adelaide's north on Saturday night after allegations a woman had been assaulted by a guest.

Police arrested Yawari at the Pavlos Motel in Pooraka in Adelaide's north on Saturday night after allegations a woman had been assaulted by a guest

He did not apply for bail and has been remanded in custody until January.

The Adelaide motel staff said his room had been arranged by social support services organisation Life Without Barriers and he had been an ideal guest until his arrest.

The manager of Pavlos Motel - who told Daily Mail Australia his name was Happy Mann - said police then turned up and told him of the alleged assault by Yawari.

'He was really good,' Mr Mann said. 'He just talked to me a few times but it was all good, I didn't feel suspicious of anything.'

Mr Mann said Yawari had been staying at the motel for a 'couple of weeks' and denied any knowledge of the alleged assault.

'Nobody knows what happened  just the police know. They told us yesterday that he'd been charged,' Mr Mann said.

Guri Bhullar, who works on the motel's front desk, later confirmed Yawari had checked in on 14 November and described him as 'no trouble, always quiet  a good guest'.

'He didn't like to speak much, he didn't come to reception too often so we didn't have much chat,' Mr Bhullar said.

'He was a quiet person, not a troublesome person: he used to stay in his own room.'

Mr Bhullar was not working on Saturday night and did not hear of the alleged assault until later.

'The lady just called the police  she didn't come to reception for any complaints that he was (allegedly) disturbing her,' he said.

'We just knew when the police came to the hotel.'

One of the rooms in the Pavlos Motel in Adelaide's north where Yawari had been staying

It is understood Yawari was wearing an ankle tag at the time of his arrest.

The High Court's decision on November 8 has now allowed 148 non-citizens to be released from detention, including paedophiles, murderers and hitmen.

Another freed detainee who was a registered sex offender and the ringleader of a child exploitation gang was also arrested on Tuesday.

Emran Dad, 33, was arrested in Dandenong, south-east of Melbourne, for allegedly making contact with minors on social media and breaching his reporting obligations.

He was charged with nine counts of failing to comply with his reporting obligations as a registered sex offender. He has also been charged with trespass.

Dad, who is from Afghanistan, was alleged to have run a prostitution ring that targeted underage girls in state care and was jailed for having sex with a 13-year-old girl in exchange for cigarettes.

Australian Border Force said a third man from the group has also been charged in New South Wales with drug possession.

Mohammed Ali Nadari, 45, was allegedly found with cannabis in Western Sydney after recently being released from immigration detention. He has been released on bail.
The owner of a popular Sydney restaurant has told 'narcissistic Zionist' Jews to stay away from his venue in an abusive post on Instagram.

Cairo Takeaway's owner, Hesham El Masry, posted the rant at a Jewish person after they made a comment about street artist Scottie Marsh.

Marsh recently painted a mural showing the Palestinian flag on a raised fist as part of the #freePalestine movement outside the eatery, located on Enmore Road's busy restaurant strip in the inner-west suburb of Newtown.

In response to the comment, Mr El Masry wrote: 'Cairo Restaurant does not want narcissistic Zionist pigs like yourself coming into our restaurant.

'People like yourself are not welcome here and anywhere for that matter. The walls are closing in on your type. Your narrative is becoming old. F*** off!'

The owner of Cairo Takeaway on Sydney's Enmore Road (above) has ignited debate about the Middle Eastern conflict with a since deleted Instagram message to a 'Zionist' poster. Above, the eatery's new mural by street artist, Scottie Marsh

Hesham El Masry's post (above) has been deleted but Australians Jews are upset and have continued to comment on his page

Cairo Takeaway owner Hesham El Masry (above) is a pro-Palestine campaigner

The post also featured a photo of two Palestinian children holdings posters with the slogan 'From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free'.

The now deleted post has been shared among Jewish people in Australia and overseas, and created both concern and anger.

Mr El Masry did not tell Daily Mail Australia the details of the comment which sparked his anger, but he defended his words, saying 'the full context of my post and of the greater issues occurring to the children of Gaza' needed to be considered.

He added that he found mainstream media 'always favouring the Israeli perspective' in respect of Palestinian and Israeli issues.

Since deleting the post, debate about the Middle East conflict - which began on October 7 when Hamas murdered Israeli festival revellers near the Gaza Strip and took others hostage - has continued to rage on the restaurant's Instagram page.

The exchanges between passionate pro-Israeli and pro-Palestine supporters have erupted in fiery posts and impassioned political debate.

In particular, an argument over whether 'from the river to the sea' has a sinister sub-text about 'wiping out' Jewish people.

One Jewish woman was slammed after writing about the post: 'Imagine teaching babies this kind of violence and hate and imagine condoning it. It's abuse.'

The woman, who had an Israeli flag as her Instagram image, wrote 'I'm a mother and I teach my children to love all people unlike Hamas'.

One person described her comments as 'the Islamophobia coming out... please continue showing your true face, drop that peace and love act.'

Two other pro-Palestine supporters attacked the woman, one calling Israeli president Benjamin Netanyahu 'the slayer', the other telling the woman to 'Stfu!' and calling her a 'genocide supporter' and 'land thief'.

One then rubbished the Jewish moniker of being 'the chosen people' and said Israel had stolen Palestinian land and food and asked 'Should we just all drop dead for you? Chosen people of Satan!'

The restaurant attempted to adjudicate the argument with a historical summary of the region prior to the creation of the state of Israel in 1948.

But the restaurant warned one pro-Israeli poster, saying 'Stop your nonsense. Otherwise we'll have to delete you comments'.

Mr El Masry's restaurant (above) is in the inner western Sydney suburb of Newtown

In one tense exchange one man said, 'I wonder what kids in Israel are taught right now? That it's okay to commit genocide in self defence?'

Another replied. 'They are taught to love. And human life is the most important thing. You must remember if Israel put its weapons down it would be wiped out in 24 hours.

'If the rest of the Middle East/Hamas put their weapons down there would be immediate peace.'

One person using the forum to personally attack the restaurant wrote, 'Now I know where NOT to eat next time I visit Enmore. Makes the choice much easier.

'The food is second rate, anyway. Much better Middle Eastern food elsewhere TBH'.

A poster mocked the restaurant's analysis of the current situation, asking if it realised that 'Egypt hates Hamas more than Israel'.

The poster continued: 'The only group of people capable of keeping your country safe from this nonsense is Israel.

'Show some respect instead of calling them "pigs", in fact, stick to making good food instead of geopolitical analysis.'
A tiny island in the Bristol Channel that was once home to a spooky cholera quarantine hospital for sailors is set to host an 'immersive horror game'.

The 86-acre Flat Holm Island, which has a population of just one, stands five miles out to sea between England and Wales.

Its most unsettling feature is the ruin of a hospital that was set up in the late 19th century to isolate sailors with cholera before they were allowed in to Cardiff.

The remains of 50 sailors who drowned when a British ship foundered on rocks in 1817 are also buried on the island.

Now that dark past is being put to good use by Bristol-based production company Stormjar Studio, who have launched a crowdfunding campaign to create an overnight immersive horror game.

It is set to combine the fictional tale of a radio engineer who served in the trenches in the First World War with the true history of the island.

A tiny island in the Bristol Channel that was once home to a spooky cholera quarantine hospital for sailors is set to host an 'immersive horror game'. The 86-acre Flat Holm Island, which has a population of just one, stands five miles out to sea between England and Wales

Flat Holm, which boasts a lighthouse built in 1737, has also been used as a hideaway for smugglers and boasts the remains of their tunnels

The new immersive game is set to combine the fictional tale of a radio engineer who served in the trenches in the First World War with the true history of the island

Flat Holm Island received the world's first radio message across water in 1897 and has more recently been used as a location for the Dr Who spin-off Torchwood.

It also boasts anti-naval gun emplacements that protected Britain during the Victorian era and in the Second World War.

The main character in the project, which is called The Static Sea, is depicted living in solitude on the island in the 1920s.

The firm's co-founders, Jim Wheale and Sophie Shaw, have been given permission from Cardiff Council for the one-off event.

It will combine immersive theatre, film and digital elements. Donors who give money to the crowdfunding campaign will have their names entered into a lottery.

Six names will then be picked for the overnight experience on the island, whilst an online audience will be able to take part for free.

Mr Wheale told the BBC: 'When I heard about Flat Holm Island, I was just gobsmacked.

'To have something so close, right on our doorstep, with so much rich and weird history, it's incredible.'

The cozy inside of the tiny island's pub, decked out with seaside accessories, only has a few tables

Its most unsettling feature is the ruin of a hospital that was set up in the late 19th century to isolate sailors with cholera before they were allowed in to Cardiff

The main character in the project, which is called The Static Sea, is depicted living in solitude on the island in the 1920s

The last patient to die in the island's hospital passed away from bubonic plague.

Flat Holm, which boasts a lighthouse built in 1737, has also been used as a hideaway for smugglers and boasts the remains of their tunnels.

It has been used as a location for the TV series Torchwood but is more famous for receiving the world's first radio message across water by Marconi in 1897.

The island has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest thanks to its huge gull colony and maritime grassland.

A tiny island in the Bristol Channel that was once home to a spooky cholera quarantine hospital for sailors is set to host an 'immersive horror game'. The 86-acre Flat Holm Island, which has a population of just one, stands five miles out to sea between England and Wales

Its only permanent resident is a warden who is tasked with maintaining the island's buildings and fixing equipment.

Current warden Simon Parker is a former Royal Air Force engineer. He opted to take up the role in March this year after the death of a close friend.

The island's pub, The Gull and Leek, is housed in a converted Victorian cottage.

To donate to Stormjar's campaign, head to crowdfunding site Indiegogo.
A new 121million bridge blamed for leaving large swathes of Norfolk under water did increase the risk of flooding, a rediscovered official document has revealed.

The Herring Bridge, which spans the River Yare in Great Yarmouth, has been linked by locals to flood waters that have blighted several villages and plains in the county for weeks.

Homes, businesses and roads have been affected, with the bill potentially running into millions of pounds.

Norfolk County Council insisted 'flood modelling and risk assessments' were carried out before the bridge design was approved.

But a 2019 report commissioned by the council acknowledged the scheme would lead to 'an increase in water depths on the floodplain during a flood event'.

 Slide me  Images showing the Herring Bridge in Great Yarmouth in 2019 (right) compared with 2023 (left)

Coldham Hall was unable to open for two days in November due to flooded roads (pictured)

Coldham Hall in Surlingham was forced to receive its deliveries by canoe due to flooding in November

This was due to the two abutments the bridge stands on, which narrow the river by more than a third from 290ft to 180ft.

Residents and business owners have pointed out the council's risk assessments only took into account the potential effect near the bridge and nearby Breydon Water, a 500-hectare nature reserve, and ignored the impact further afield.

Villages some distance away, including Potter Heigham, Horning, Wroxham, Surlingham and Geldeston have been affected by flooding.

Steve Burgess, a Horning parish councillor and representative of the Pike Anglers' Club of Great Britain and the Broad Anglers Service Group, said: 'The world I move in, I've seen hundreds of reports and surveys on various subjects which are ignored by the authorities.

'They carry on getting people to do reports hoping they'll get one with what they want. This is quite a common tactic.'

Mr Burgess added it was difficult to prove a direct link between the bridge and flooding and there likely to have been an 'accumulation of factors', including insufficient dredging of waterways.

But he said: 'There is a lot of circumstantial evidence and also the common-sense factor.'

Heavy rain and high tides have left water levels on the Norfolk Broads extremely high in recent weeks, resulting in flooding on the low-lying land.

Flooding around Potter Heigham and the River Thurne floodplain on November 6

The Herring Bridge in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, was built to ease congestion on roads in the area and opens in the middle to let river traffic through

Villagers claim water levels have taken longer to recede since construction on the bridge began two years ago. It opened to river traffic last month. Road traffic has been delayed until next year following the discovery of an unexploded bomb and a vole burrow.

Critics say the problems are caused because the council opted for a 'cheap' bridge that stands on the abutments, or knuckles, rather than one that had supports on either side of the river.

This, they say, restricts the movement of water from nearby waterways that flow into the Yare and out to sea.

The report for the county council, which was compiled by consultants, gave a list of 'likely significant events' including 'increase in water depths on the floodplain and receptors during a flood event due to constriction of flows caused by bridge knuckles'.

Concerns were raised at a subsequent public inquiry after they were flagged up by the Royal Yachting Association, although the consultants claimed the risk was 'negligible'.

A planning inspector concluded: 'The evidence does not support the contention that the proposed development would increase water levels upstream or lead to flooding or the higher reaches within the Broads basin.'

The new bridge (pictured opening) was called the Herring Bridge to acknowledge the town's herring fishing past

Flooding around Potter Heigham and the River Thurne floodplain on November 6

But the inspector mentioned the Environment Agency hadn't requested a broader river flood scenario in the report  showing a failure to investigate the impact on other rivers including the Thurne, Bure and Ant, opponents of the bridge claim.

One homeowner, who last week revealed they were looking into a class action lawsuit against the council along with neighbours, said: 'We have to go back to around 2013 before we can all remember a similar flood. That was after more rainfall, it only lasted about three days and was tide-locking, pure and simple.

'This is not tide-locking in my view. It is a man-made restriction to the river flow, so even when we are not tide-locked, not enough water can get out to sea to provide a meaningful reduction to flood water.

'That means that in mid-October and again in mid-November, even with a series of low ocean levels at both tides and little or no rain to add to the surface run-off, the flooding never receded completely in several weeks.

'This is all a new feature of the past two years, with construction of the pontoons beginning to restrict the river during late 2021.'

Graham Plant, the county councillor responsible for highways, infrastructure and transport, said flood risks had been 'extensively modelled' as part of the design process for the Herring Bridge.

'The independent examiner was fully satisfied with the work carried out in granting the development consent order following the public examination and concluded that any potential impact from the bridge was negligible,' he added.

'No objections were raised by the Environment Agency or the Broads Authority and there is nothing in the evidence presented or any tidal data to suggest otherwise.

'The study area didn't extend beyond Breydon Water because, if there is no impact on Breydon Water, there cannot be an impact further upstream.'

An Environment Agency spokesman said it had been 'consulted and had no objections to any flooding impacts as a result of the bridge'.

The Broads Authority suggested recent flooding was due to 'October's rainfall being higher than average, in conjunction with several days of surge on top of a neap tide constricting rivers draining through Great Yarmouth'.

Such events, it added, 'might become more frequent with climate change'.
Students have fallen almost two academic years behind those who attended high school in the early 2000's, a new report on academic performance has found.

Australian students with the lowest socioeconomic status are five years behind their richer counterparts with 40 per cent classified as low performers in maths, according to the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).

The report revealed Indigenous students have fallen roughly four academic years behind in their studies when compared to non-Indigenous students.

Up to 13,437 students from 743 schools across Australia sat for the PISA exams which are designed to test the higher-order thinking of 15-year-olds.

The report is the first to examine the academic progress of students during the pandemic and revealed an 'unprecedented drop in performance'.

Students have fallen behind in core subjects like reading, maths and science despite Australia earning a place in the top 10 countries for the first time since 2003.

Students have fallen almost two academic years behind those who attended high school in the 2000's, a new report on academic performance has found (pictured, Sydney school students)

Maths results have dropped by 37 points since 2003, science has dropped by 20 points since 2006 and reading has dropped 30 points since 2000.

Twenty points is considered approximately equal to one year of learning, meaning Australia's school system has barely improved since the last PISA report in 2019.

In NSW, more than 20 per cent of students are considered low performers with the number of high performers also on the decline.

Low performers in science, maths and reading have doubled since 2000.

There has been no significant uptick in maths or reading results in NSW since 2015, however science results have improved in the last five years.

Students with migrant parents and those born outside of Australia performed better than teenagers born in Australia in maths and reading.

Australian girls have fallen half an academic year behind in reading when compared to students who sat the last round of PISA tests in 2018.

Australian girls have fallen half an academic year behind in reading when compared to students who sat the last round of PISA tests in 2018 (stock image)

'Australia has a good education system, but it can be a lot better and fairer, and these results again highlight this,' Education Minister Jason Clare said.

'We have to fix the funding gap and fix this education gap.

'That's why I want the school funding agreement we negotiate next year to tie funding to the sort of things that help children who fall behind to catch up, keep up and finish school.'

Australia made it in to the international top 10 for the first time in 20 years, however this is largely due to a drop in performance in other countries.

More than 690,000 students from 81 countries took part in PISA 2022.
A registered sex offender who was the ringleader of a child exploitation gang allegedly used apps like TikTok and Instagram to contact minors before he was arrested in Melbourne just weeks after he was released from immigration detention.

It comes as the government pushes through laws to try and put released immigration detainees back behind bars after the High Court ruled they should be released as indefinite detention was illegal.

Asylum seeker Emran Dad, 33, was arrested in Dandenong, south-east of Melbourne, and charged with nine counts of failing to comply with his reporting obligations as a registered sex offender.

He was also charged with trespassing after failing to leave a public arena in Dandenong on November 24.

A ex-ringleader of a child exploitation gang allegedly used popular apps like TikTok and Instagram to contact minors before he was arrested in Melbourne just weeks after he was released from immigration detention (stock image)

Emran Dad, a registered sex offender, appeared in the Dandenong Magistrates' Court on Tuesday afternoon (pictured) where he made no application for bail

The registered sex offender appeared in the Dandenong Magistrates' Court on Tuesday afternoon, where he made no application for bail.

While Dad's lawyer had hoped to return on Wednesday to make that application, he was told it would not be possible until December 14.

The court heard Dad suffered an intellectual disability, which had been largely left untreated while he remained in immigration detention.

He also complained about breathing difficulties while in custody.

Dad's lawyer asked his client to be treated by a prison nurse before being taken back to jail and said he was 'not happy with being in custody at the moment'.

He requested to appear in person at his next court appearance on December 14.

Dad, who is from Afghanistan, was alleged to have run a prostitution ring that targeted underage girls in state care and was jailed for having sex with a 13-year-old girl in exchange for cigarettes.

Victoria Police said on Tuesday: 'Police have arrested a man today after he breached his reporting obligations as a registered sex offender.

'The 33-year-old was arrested in Dandenong this morning without incident. Police are currently interviewing him.

'Victoria Police can confirm the man is one of the detainees recently released following a High Court ruling. Victoria Police is always proactive in addressing community risk presented by those who would commit criminal acts.'

Afghan refugee Aliyawar Yawari, 65, was arrested at the Pavlos Motel in Pooraka in Adelaide's north on Saturday and charged with indecently assaulting a female guest

Opposition Finance Minister Jane Hume has accused Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil (pictured) of 'botching' the release of 148 immigration detainees

Dad's arrest comes as it was revealed on Monday night that Australian authorities had arrested another two freed detainees.

Mohammed Ali Nadari was arrested in western Sydney on drugs charges last weekend just six days after being released.

Afghan refugee Aliyawar Yawari, 65, was arrested at the Pavlos Motel in Pooraka in Adelaide's north on Saturday and charged with indecently assaulting a female guest.

Yawari remains before the courts.

The charged detainees were entitled to the presumption of innocence, Australian Lawyers Alliance spokesman Greg Barns said.

Legislation should have been in the works and ready to roll out to keep the worst offenders behind bars in case the court case was lost, the opposition argues.

But a preventative detention regime couldn't have kept the whole cohort behind bars as the government couldn't out-legislate a High Court ruling, Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus said in a statement tabled in the Senate.

The court made a decision that applied to people held in immigration detention in the same circumstances as the original complainant, NZYQ, and detaining anyone affected by the ruling would be unlawful, he said.

Any delay could open the Commonwealth up to legal action over false imprisonment, the attorney-general said.

The government needed to detail how each case related to the ruling, the reasons why they were released and what countries were approached to resettle them, shadow attorney-general Michaelia Cash said.

Labor minister Murray Watt argued former home affairs minister Peter Dutton's failure to take up resettlement deals or deport the cohort was the reason the people were allowed to linger in detention.

The opposition has been given the chance to review the legal advice the government received from the solicitor-general.

The preventative detention regime will capture people in the cohort who pose a serious risk to the community and enable the government to apply to put them back behind bars even if they've served their prison sentence.

It's unknown exactly how many people will be covered by the new detention regime but Mr Watt previously suggested it would only extend to a small number of people.

The preventative detention laws will allow the released detainees to be put back behind bars if a court is satisfied there's a high chance they pose "an unacceptable risk of committing a serious violent or sexual offence".

It would also be a criminal offence for people who have been convicted of serious or violent sexual offences to go near a school or contact their victim or their victim's family.

The maximum length of the order is three years and the minister will need to reapply to the court for a review every year.

There is also mandatory jail time of a year and a maximum of five behind bars if a released detainee breaches an enhanced supervision order that applies to them.

The Greens argue the laws are overreach and create a two-tiered justice system as criminals are released every day.

Labor had capitulated to the coalition to avoid a political fight over national security, Greens senator David Shoebridge said.

"If you have to put a couple of people in jail for the rest of their lives even though there's no evidence of future offending ... Labor are willing to pay that price," he said, pointing to problems with the tools used to assess the risk a person poses.

The amended legislation is set to be ticked off by the lower house on Thursday.
Soaring numbers of Scots feel lonely most or all of the time, a report into the health of the nation has found.

The Scottish Health Survey shows rising mental health problems alongside plummeting physical health.

Mental health is the worst on record, with the average score on a wellbeing scale, ranging from 14 to 70, falling from 50 to 47.

The proportion of adults feeling lonely most or all of the time increased from eight to 11 per cent between 2021 and 2022, while those reporting symptoms of depression rose from eight to 13 per cent between 2009 and 2022.

Scottish Tory health spokesman Dr Sandesh Gulhane said: The SNPs failure to support frontline mental health services and organisations is having a devastating impact.

Scottish Tory health spokesman Dr Sandesh Gulhane has highlighted the need for a 'clear plan' to improve Scots' health

The number of adults feeling lonely increased to 11 per cent, and those reporting depressive symptoms rose even more

The shocking findings come against a backdrop of the SNP presiding over Europes record drug death rate, the highest number of alcohol deaths since 2008, spiralling A&E waiting times and a failure to meet cancer waiting-time targets for over a decade.

He called on Health Secretary Michael Matheson to make way for someone focused on addressing these findings and outlining a clear plan to improve the health of Scots.

The survey also found that between 2003 and 2021 the proportion describing their health as very good or good ranged from 71 to 77 per cent. In 2022, this dropped to 70 per cent.

More than 4,000 adults responded to the latest report, described by Scottish Labour health spokesman Jackie Baillie as a damning indictment of the SNPs time in government.

A Scottish Government spokesman said ministers remained absolutely committed to our public health agenda and cited the impact of the pandemic and the cost of living crisis as factors in worsening mental health.
With wearying predictability, SNP politicians were quick to express moral outrage over the UK Governments plans to reduce immigration.

Those proposals did not adhere to Scotlands values, declared Stephen Flynn.

The SNP had spotted its customary opportunity to paint the caricature of foreigner-bashing little-England and immigrant-welcoming progressive Scotland.

The SNPs shroud-waving focused on the fact Scotland needs more workers. Nobody could disagree with that, nor that immigrant labour is a way to help fill the gap.

Where I smell the whiff of hypocrisy in the SNPs moralistic stance on immigration, however, is when it comes to its record at home.

SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn said the UK Government's plans to reduce immigration did not adhere to Scotlands values

Forget using immigrants to fill Scotlands job vacancies for a moment: the failure to get home-based Scots out of unemployment, off sickness benefits and back into a job remains a scandal of staggering proportions.

More than 16 years in government, its one the SNP has barely acknowledged, still less done anything to remedy.

Rather than leap on their high horse over Westminsters efforts to cut immigration, politicians like Mr Flynn would be better served spending their time working out how to get more people here in Scotland out of their homes, and ending the blight of worklessness.

Scandal

The figures are stark. While unemployment in Scotland (currently at 120,000) is low by historic standards, it does not tell the whole story. The figures dont count the 779,000 people classed as economically inactive. Within those numbers there lie 250,000 Scots of working age who are deemed either temporarily or long-term sick.

That figure  unlike unemployment  has shot up by a shocking 50,000 in only the past five years. Its double the number on the unemployment register. It represents one in 14 of Scotlands entire working age population. It is far, far higher, proportionally, than the UK as a whole.

For example, among all working age men in Scotland deemed economically inactive, 44 per cent cite ill health as the reason they cannot work. In the UK as a whole, the figure is ten points lower.

Tragically, even among Scots aged between 16 and 24, one in ten who are inactive now blame long-term sickness as the main reason.

Indeed, according to the Scottish Government, illness is the single biggest cause of inactivity. Think on that for a moment: think of the hundreds of young Scots at the start of their lives declaring themselves unable to work because they say they are too unwell. It is a national shame.

When burrowing deeper into the figures, a clear reason emerges: whereas in the 80s and 90s physical problems such as back pain were cited as the main form of ill health, today the most common reason given is mental health; among all inactive people, 124,000 say problems with their mental state is their main health concern.

Politicians need to confront this tide of worklessness head on. It cannot be right, as the latest Scottish Government statistics show us, that more than 130,000 working age Scots have never had a job.

Not only is it costing billions in extra benefits, it translates on the ground into communities where the very concept

of a job is largely unknown; where children are growing up without any knowledge of what a working life looks like. In too many Scottish streets, worklessness is endemic. It is normal. It points to a breakdown in societys fabric.

So, yes, immigration is required to help fill our job vacancies: Mr Flynn is right about that. But rather than simply yanking the immigration lever every time the need for more labour emerges, its also the case that we need to do something about our worklessness crisis here at home.

In short, the political bubble needs to challenge a health and benefits system that often appears designed to stop

people from going out to seek a job  or encourages those people who wish to play it. This is the way to solve Britains labour shortages. Its also the way Scotland and Britain can build a healthier and more solvent nation.

Leadership

It requires some bold leadership. On the NHS, we need to face up to the fact that, far from providing us with a safety net, our health service actively generates long-term sickness absence. GPs are given inadequate time to assess patients complex needs. We end up, as a result, medicalising people who have little or no psychological or physical problems.

We need to be hard-headed about a benefits system that, despite reform, continues to actively discourage people from working, removing any incentive to find a job.

We also need to confront the reasons behind the explosion of mental health cases. The pandemic appears to have left a mental health epidemic in its wake; between 2019 and last year, the numbers who gave mental health as a reason for inactivity shot up from 540,000 to 716,000.

I have no doubt many of these people will be suffering genuinely and in no way should they be stigmatised.

But the Government cannot ignore what is happening. Some people will have cottoned on: using mental health as a way to exploit the benefits

system and the NHS for all it is worth. Others have, I suggest, simply convinced themselves they need to remain at home.

Irony

We should acknowledge it: post-pandemic, a view has emerged that we require protection from a dangerous world, whether to stop us catching a deadly virus or to preserve our mental health. This requires challenging.

For the irony is acute. Countless surveys have shown worklessness actively damages peoples mental health.

It leads directly to depression and anxiety. It is not compassion to allow thousands to

disappear from the workplace. It is actively damaging to themselves.

Scotland and Britain cannot go on like this. Across the country, the annual economic costs of sickness absence and worklessness associated with working age ill-health have been estimated to be more than 100billion  larger than the GDP of a small country. To leave this crisis untouched is to avoid the problem. To use extra immigration as a solution is the equivalent of turning up the tap to fill up a leaky bucket.

Of course, a managed flow of immigration will still be needed across the UK given our ageing population. But relying on immigration is the easy route.

A more moral policy would see governments straining every sinew to get Britains army of the inactive back to the workplace. Its not the kind of tough policy the SNP has been prepared to consider over its long period in office. But its one the partys moralistic politicians should do.
Scotland's crisis-stricken police service has launched a voluntary redundancy drive for civilian staff in a desperate bid to cut costs.

Workers seeking redundancy or early retirement can apply from January 8 until February 9.

The move was approved at the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) board last week and will be open to staff with a minimum of two years of continuous service.

Some exemptions  including staff in call centres, control rooms and custody suites  were made to ensure operational effectiveness.

Unison, which represents civilian staff, said the plan was short-sighted and warned it would leave gaps in frontline policing.

Chief Constable Jo Farrell announced Police Scotland would be cutting voluntary staff starting with a voluntary redundancy scheme.

Police Scotland has said that without an additional 128million, officer numbers could fall

by almost 1,500 and it may move to a reduced attendance model.

Chief Constable Jo Farrell told an SPA board meeting last week that voluntary redundancies would be sought.

An internal memo said: Prior to Christmas we will launch a dedicated VR/VER [voluntary redundancy/voluntary early retirement] intranet mini-site which will provide detail in relation to the scheme terms.

A Police Scotland spokesman said: We are reducing police staff numbers proportionately to the reduction in officer numbers and returning overtime costs to normal levels. VR/VER is one of the ways the service aims to reduce police staff costs.

Unison Scotland regional organiser Deborah Clarke said: Police Scotland is repeating the same mistake as many other public sector organisations by axing staff to fix a cash crisis.

But this is essential work and using more highly paid officers to do the same tasks is short-sighted and will leave gaps in frontline policing.

Scottish Tory justice spokesman Russell Findlay said: The SNP must reverse their brutal underfunding of Police Scotland and provide the resources needed to keep our streets safe.
This is the horrifying moment a police officer punched his wife before he shot her dead in broad daylight in the Brazilian city of Sao Paulo on Sunday.

Surveillance camera footage showed Erika de Lima, 33, stepping out from the drivers seat and pulling open the right passenger door on the back to force out her husband, Military Police officer Thiago de Lima, 36.

The woman could be seen trying to drag the cop out of the car before he stepped out with a gun in his right hand.

Thiago de Lima subsequently fired a shot and missed striking Erikas face. He then hit her in the face with the gun five times before he fired two shots, striking her both times in the chest.

Video then showed the woman stumbling around before she collapsed against the bumper of the car and died.

Erika de Lima (left) was allegedly murdered by her husband, Thiago de Lima (right), during an argument in broad daylight on Sunday in Sao Paulo, Brazil

Brazilian police officer Thiago de Lima (right) got into a scuffle with his wife, Erika de Lima (left) before he shot her dead

He got in the vehicle and drove up the street before he returned and dragged her body towards the sidewalk.

Later, Thiago placed his wifes body in the car and drove her to a nearby hospital, where she was confirmed dead.

Thiago de Lima was arrested after he confessed to shooting his wife. However, he told cops that she tried to take his gun away during the argument, which the surveillance video does not show.

He is facing a femicide charge.

Thiago de Lima (left) was seen punching his wife Erika de Lima (right) five times before he shot her dead.

Erika de Lima (pictured) filed a police report in October after her husband, Thiago de Lima, allegedly aimed a gun at her her and threatened to shoot her

Thiago de Lima told police investigators that his wife had tried to take the gun away from him moments before he shot and killed her

Erika, a mother to two daughters from a previous relationship, and Thiago were married for six months, Brazilian news outlet G1 reported.

The woman filed a police report on October 30 after Thiago allegedly threatened her with a gun and pointed it at her head.

However, she declined to press criminal charges and did not ask for an order of protection.

The incident reportedly stemmed from an argument the couple had after leaving a club, where Thiago had flown into a jealous rage.

The discussion continued at the couple's home and unraveled when Thiago aimed the gun and told Erika that she was not going to be around to see her daughters grow up.
What a difference a year, and a few undeserved missiles, make.

In 2022, at the Diplomatic Corps reception at Buckingham Palace, the Princess of Wales was regal, yes. Beautiful, yes.

But a little too appropriate. A scarlet, embroidered and embellished Jenny Packham gown.

She wore the Lotus Flower Tiara (the jewels were a wedding gift to Elizabeth Bowes Lyons, which she transformed into a headpiece, worn often by Princess Margaret) and an expression that had not a care in the world.

Kate in a Jenny Packham sequinned gown previously worn at the Jordanian wedding

Kate seen here smiling and laughing with all the members of the Diplomatic corps at Buckingham Palace

The fabulous four putting on a united front for the official picture

Kate wore a scarlet, embroidered and embellished Jenny Packham gown at the same event in 2022

This year? It was the ultimate revenge dress. It signalled, as Dianas Little Black Dress did at the Serpentine on the night Prince Charles confessed to adultery on national televsion, that Catherine will not be cowed.

She will not go quietly into the night. (And, to be honest, why on earth should she?)

The dress isnt overtly sexy: the occasion is too formal for too much skin and, for most women, an elaborate sash and brooch would instantly kill anything too sensual. But it is form fitting and, like Dianas LBD, very modern.

On Tuesday night, we glimpsed a woman who not only wears diamonds (the tiara this time was the Lovers Knot, often worn by Princess Diana; it was a wedding gift from the late Queen) but who is one.

She literally shines under pressure. She knew all eyes would be on her, as the reception on Tuesday night was the first time senior royals will have been seen together since the racism row, when both the Princess of Wales and King Charles were named in the Dutch version of Omid Scobies new tome.

So, what did Catherine do? She wore the soft pink Jenny Packham to great effect, at the wedding of the crown prince of Jordan earlier this year.

She did the high hair with tiara thing again. Earrings are the Greville Diamond Chandeliers, made by Cartier. The ensemble certainly beat a pair of black leggings and baseball cap, pulled on in a car park in Montecito.

No cap sleeves, no full-on frou frou Disney skirt. No lace. No black velvet. No white lace, as though she isnt a mother of children.

The Prince and Princess of Wales at Jordanian Royal Palace to celebrate the wedding of Jordan's Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah married Saudi architect Rajwa Al Saif

Kate's Jenny Packham ' Georgia' gown was shimmering as she spoke with guests last night

Kates dress was accessorised perfectly with a matching clutch

Kate was seen wearing the Greville Diamond Chandeliers, made by Cartier

Those past gowns by Alexander McQueen et al revealed a woman who hadnt yet found herself. Who was still trying things on, literally and figuratively.

No, last night she showed real confidence. Full-length sleeves. Matching clutch and shoes. All of which she has worn before.

William had earlier in the day been freezing, out selling The Big Issue. It would have grated had Catherine not worn a recycled gown. It would have been crass.

Instead, it was perfect.
Mobile phone use in the classroom is helping to fuel a devastating slump in Scottish pupils performance, world education leaders have warned.

A bombshell new study reveals the country has plunged down global education rankings under the SNPs leadership.

The research, which has tracked pupils results around the world since 2002, uncovered a worrying slide in pupil performance in maths, science and reading.

Experts said Scots pupils were being distracted by smartphones, which they claimed were stoking anxiety levels and affecting learning. The situation has become so bad that more than one in five children say they want the devices kept out of classrooms.

The findings will now heap pressure on ministers to ban mobile phones from lessons, allowing students to learn without interference from text messages and social media notifications.

Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth

Last night, Scottish Tory education spokesman Liam Kerr said: Mobile phones can be disruptive and distracting for pupils in class  and the final say on whether they are permitted should lie with teachers. If they believe that learning would be enhanced by banning the use of mobiles during class-time, then they should have the power to enforce that.

The OECDs Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) revealed that 15-year-olds in Scotland lag behind pupils in former Soviet bloc countries such as the Czech Republic, Estonia and Slovenia  and are also outperformed by their peers in England.

In OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries, 65 per cent of students who participated in the PISA survey said they were distracted by their phones or other devices such as computers and tablets.

Around 21 per cent of pupils in Scotland agreed that pupils should not be allowed to bring mobiles to class.

Andreas Schleicher of the OECD, which conducted the research, said: We can see that students use of smartphones was quite clearly linked in Scotland, but also in other countries, to greater student anxiety, to more disruption, to less concentration.

Even many students in Scotland said, My neighbour is using their smartphone during a lesson and I cant concentrate.

A recent report from the United Nations said that smartphones should be banned from all schools to tackle classroom disruption.

Leading private school Gordonstoun in Moray, alma mater of King Charles and his father Prince Philip, has restricted smartphone use since 2017.

Gordonstoun principal Lisa Kerr has said that the devices have a detrimental impact on the mental health of pupils and their ability to concentrate properly during lessons.

The Scottish Government said that although decisions on whether to ban phones are left to local authorities, Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth has been clear that she is keen to examine all the evidence on this issue.

A complex scoring system is used by PISA, with each student awarded a scaled score.

Around two-thirds of pupils across all countries receive a score between 400 and 600. Countries are ranked by their performance in each individual subject, and not a combined score. In maths, the performance in Scotlands schools fell from 489 in 2018  the last PISA survey  to 471 in 2022, the lowest level on record and worse than 19 other countries including England and Slovenia.

For reading, there was also a slump in performance  from 504 to 493  and Scotland was ranked lower than seven countries, including Estonia.

There was also a fall in Scotlands score for science, from 490 to 483, meaning performance was lower than 18 countries, including the Czech Republic.

Scotland was ranked lower than Englands score of 492 in maths and 503 in science. The OECD average for 2022 was 472 in maths and 485 in science.

Among the UK home nations, Scotland has the widest attainment gap in maths skills between poorer and better-off pupils.

The average reading score for Scotland in the PISA survey was higher than the OECD average of 476 points.

The PISA figures rank Scotland second for reading in the UK, slightly behind Englands 496 score. Around 3,300 Scottish 15-year-olds were assessed, while 81 countries took part in PISA, with some 690,000 students participating in the survey.

Last night, Mr Kerr said the figures were a devastating indictment of the SNPs long-term mismanagement of education since taking power in 2007, including the partys introduction of the Curriculum for Excellence.

He added: Education is fully devolved to the Scottish parliament, so the SNP have no one else to blame but themselves. From the attainment gap they have broken their pledge to eradicate, to rising levels of classroom violence, their record is one of abject failure, despite the best efforts of dedicated teachers.

Scottish Labour education spokesman Pam Duncan-Glancy said: These results are a painful reminder of how children in Scotland are being let down by an SNP Government that is out of touch and out of ideas.

Andrea Bradley, general secretary of the EIS teaching union, said: Scotlands schools and teachers continue to strive to provide the best possible learning experiences for all young people but increasingly they are swimming against a tide of cuts, which threatens now to be a tidal wave unless the Scottish Government makes different decisions on spending and revenue-raising to properly fund education.

Ms Gilruth, a former teacher, said: As is well understood, the Covid-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on our young people and their experience of learning and teaching. PISA demonstrates this impact across the majority of countries participating.
Scotland's education system was once the envy of the world  but that is comprehensively no longer the case, as bleak new figures reveal.

Parents will be rightly horrified to learn of the scale of the decline in key skills outlined in granular detail in the Pisa report  a major global study.

Of course, if you listen to the Scottish Government and to the teaching unions, youd be forgiven for thinking there wasnt a problem at all.

Its almost as if these appalling statistics were a figment of our collective imagination  they would have us all believe there simply isnt an issue.

That goes far beyond wishful thinking, given the extraordinary failures uncovered in this devastating report.

Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth at Holyrood yesterday

The most important conclusion is that Covid isnt solely responsible for this crisis  although ministers and education chiefs are determined to scapegoat it.

True, the repercussions were far-reaching, but the rot had set in before the pandemic reached our shores  and a large part of the cause was botched curricular reform that had the support of all the political parties in the Scottish parliament.

Doubts are raised about the Covid explanation by Andreas Schleicher, director of the Pisa study, in his analysis of the global data.

Not all countries did show a fall. For example, attainment rose in Japan and South Korea in science, reading and maths, and rose in two of the three in several others  for example, Singapore, Italy and Israel.

Rot had set in before the pandemic

Schleicher makes clear that attainment was declining long before Covid  and that the pandemic merely gave it an extra downward push.

That is certainly true of Scotland, as is well-known, despite Nicola Sturgeons much-vaunted crusade to stamp out the postcode lottery in state education  which in reality has proved a dismal failure.

Scottish attainment fell from early in the century to the middle of the first decade, stabilised for a few years, and then, from 2012, started a steady decline which was unmitigated except for a brief rise in reading in 2018 (which was wiped out by the 2022 fall).

As a result, over the whole decade from 2012 to 2022, the Scottish decline was equivalent to about 16 months of schooling in mathematics, eight months in reading and 18 months in science.

That decline started to become noticeable at the moment when the new Curriculum for Excellence began to impact on childrens learning after its implementation from 2010.

One of the main criticisms of the CfE is that it neglects knowledge of the kind that students can obtain only from expert teachers  in effect, it was a kind of dumbing-down.

No long-term change can be achieved without an overhaul of the CfE, but it is only part of the problem  albeit a highly significant one.

There are many other issues, including rising truancy, indiscipline and the distraction caused by mobile phones.

Fascinatingly, more than 20 per cent of pupils agree that phones should be kept out of the classroom  so a large proportion of children are clearly concerned that these omnipresent devices can be harmful to learning.

On a practical level, there are problems with simply banning phones from the classroom  largely because teachers have become used to encouraging pupils to use their phones to search for information.

That problem could be dealt with by giving every pupil a tablet computer so that they no longer need their phones in the classroom.

Thats supposed to be Scottish Government policy  though they have delayed it again because of the cost.

But sometimes spending more money is genuinely the right way to encourage pupils independence and initiative. Pisa has played an invaluable role in identifying the problems in Scottish education but the most pressing question it raises is: where does Scotland go from here?

Where does Scotland go from here?

In the polarised world of Scottish politics, it is difficult to see a way forward. The only way ahead is bottom-up  not imposed by the Scottish Government and its clearly failing quangos.

Imposing another reform on teachers would be completely counter-productive. There are schools which are trying to use the flexibility which the CfE offers to do things differently.

They are trying to develop a curriculum based on knowledge, on challenge, on real ambition.

The heads of these schools are under enormous pressure to conform to the national policy.

So one genuinely constructive thing which Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth could do would be to encourage such local experiments.

She should instruct the school inspectors and the local authorities not only to tolerate these but to encourage them actively.

There would have to be proper evaluation of these experiments which, dismayingly, is also anathema in Scotland.

That would then allow the successful practices to be gradually extended.

It would empower teachers and local communities  and it would provide a way in which parents could help to lead truly innovative schools focusing on high standards.
Survivors of the Hamas festival massacre have recounted incidents of gang rape, torture, mutilations and the targeting of both men and women's genitals in shocking witness testimony that further reveals the horror of the October 7 attack on Israel.

One witness told Israeli police that they saw a woman mutilated by Hamas gunmen before a terrorist shot her in the head during a gang rape.

Others described hearing the screams of women as they were attacked, as well as seeing the gunmen amputate breasts and toss them to the side of the road.

Several people involved in the collecting and identifying of the bodies found in the aftermath have also recounted harrowing evidence of torture and murder to officials, describing how festivalgoers' genitals were shot, and how elsewhere they found victims murdered, tied to beds, and their genitals mutilated with knives.

While few victims of the atrocities are thought to have survived the attack, a selection of these recorded eyewitness accounts have been released by Israeli police, and seen by several news organisations.

Meanwhile, some of the few that did survive the attack are said to have been left suicidal, struggling to come to terms with what they saw.

With the release of the testimonies, Israel is calling on the international community to recognise Hamas's October 7 attack as a crime against humanity, with one senior official investigating sexual violence saying the terrorists came across the border from Gaza with a 'clear order' to use 'rape as genocide.'

Survivors of the Nova Festival massacre have recounted the horrors of the October 7 attack to Israeli police. Pictured: Festivalgoers fleeing the party as Hamas launched its attack

One eyewitness, who was at the festival, spoke of how a woman was gang raped before she was mutilated

Other witnesses gave harrowing testimonies, recalling seeing women and men having their genitals shot at by Hamas terrorists

One woman at the horrific scene said: 'There was one body of a woman that had a blood stain on her genitals, at first I thought she might have had a mishap out of fear. When we picked her up we knew for sure that it was blood.'

Another told officers in a recorded clip: 'Mainly there were a lot of gunshot wounds, also targeted shooting in the male genital area and we saw that a lot. They had a thing with sexual organs, both for women and men.

'The women we received, they were civilians, we mainly saw either breast amputation or shooting just to the breast, simply shooting from one side of the breast to the other.

'They were conscious when they got to us. For the men it was their genitalia, shooting genitals, they had a thing with that, or amputation.'

In one of the horrific statements recorded on video, a witness known only as Witness S described seeing a female victim being passed from one attacker to another as they raped her, while she 'bled from her back'.

The terror group went on to 'cut her breasts' before 'throwing it onto the road' and 'playing with it', the witness recalled.

She continues to say the victim was passed to another man in uniform.

'He penetrated her, and shot her in the head before he finished,' she said, according to the BBC who saw the video testimony. 'He didn't even pick up his pants; he shoots and ejaculates.'

The woman in the video described watching the militants as she pretended to be dead. 'I couldn't understand what I saw,' she said.

Another man who was at the festival as the bloody incursion unfolded, told the BBC he could hear the 'noises and screams of people being murdered, raped, decapitated'.

When asked by the broadcaster how he could be sure that the screams he heard indicated a sexual assault, he said he believed when listening at the time that the shouts could only have been as a result of rape.

In a statement the same man made through a support organisation, he described the attack carried out by the Hamas terror group as 'inhuman'.

'Some women were raped before they were dead, some raped while injured, and some were already dead when the terrorists raped their lifeless bodies,' his statement says. 'I desperately wanted to help, but there was nothing I could do.'

Another witness, Ron Freger, fled the music festival when Hamas attacked and said he heard women screaming for help.

'I was lying in a pit and I hard a girl yelling 'they're raping me, they're raping me', he told Associated Press.

Several minutes later, he heard gunshots close by and she fell silent, he said.

Footage showed of a Hamas terrorist launching fire on festivalgoers on October 7

One serving Israeli soldier, only using her first name Avigayil, told the BBC it was hard to know how many victims had been raped, as some of the bodies had been burnt

'The feeling in that moment is one of complete powerlessness. I'm lying in this hole and I have no ability to do anything,' the 23-year-old explained.

'I have no weapon, I have nothing, I'm surrounded by other people who are hiding with me and we're completely powerless.'

Israel's Women's Empowerment Minister May Golan told the BBC that very few victims of rape or sexual assault had survived the attacks. Those that did are undergoing psychiatric treatment.

'But very, very few (survived). The majority were brutally murdered,' she said. 'They aren't able to talk - not with me, and not to anyone from the government [or] from the media.'

Such accounts given to media organisations, along with the first assessments by an Israeli rights group, show that sexual assault was part of an atrocities-filled rampage by Hamas and other Gaza militants who killed about 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and took more than 240 hostages that day.

Two months after the Hamas attacks on the music festival, farming communities and army posts across southern Israel and close to Gaza, police are still struggling to put together the pieces.

In the immediate aftermath of the attack, priority was given to identifying bodies and not preserving evidence, making the investigation more challenging.

Now Israeli police say they are combing through 60,000 videos seized from the body cameras of Hamas gunmen. Footage from social media and security cameras will also be looked at in a bid to bring the perpetrators to justice. It has been hard to find rape survivors, however, as many were killed by their attackers.

But police say they now have 'multiple' eye-witness accounts of sexual assault.

They have not said exactly how many, and are yet to interview any of the surviving victims of the attacks.

In videos released by Israel that were recorded by Hamas gunmen on October 7, one woman - who was handcuffed and taken hostages by the terrorists - can be seen handcuffed with a large patch of blood staining the seat of her trousers.

Other women carried away by Hamas appear naked or semi-clothed.

Multiple photographs taken by those who arrived in the aftermath show the bodies of women, naked from the waist down, the BBC reports. Some have ripped underwear, legs splayed, with signs of trauma to their genitals and legs.

Dr Cochav Elkayam-Levy, a legal expert at the Davis Institute of International Relations at Hebrew University, told the British broadcaster that it looked as if Hamas had learned how to 'weaponise women's bodies from ISIS'.

Minister May Golan said she had spoken to at least three girls who were hospitalised, and in a 'very hard psychiatric situation because of the rapes they watched.'

Israel's police chief Yaacov Shabtai echoed her comments, saying many survivors of the attacks were finding it difficult to come to terms with what they had seen.

Some are understood to be suicidal. One person working with the teams supporting the survivors told the BBC some had already killed themselves.

A serving soldier, who only used her first name Avigayil, spoke of how it was difficult to define how many victims were sexually assaulted during the attacks.

The soldier told the BBC: 'I've dealt with more than a few burned bodies and I have no idea what they went through beforehand.

'And bodies that are missing the bottom half - I also don't know if they were raped. But women that were clearly raped? There are enough. More than enough.'

In another testimony, a combat medic told the Associated Press that he came across half a dozen bodies of women and men with possible signs of sexual assault when he reached one of the attacked communities.

One girl had been shot in the head and was lying on the floor, her legs open and pants pulled down, with what looked like semen on her lower back, said the medic who spoke on condition of anonymity because his unit was classified.

Other bodies had bleeding around the groin with limbs at distorted angles, he said.

One of the people tasked with collecting bodies from the attack sites while working with the Zaka religious volunteer organisations told the BBC that they saw signs of torture and mutilation which, he said, included a pregnant woman whose womb had been ripped open before she was killed.

The Zaka group and other volunteer organisations that handled bodies at the scene and once they arrived at the Shura army base for identification have provided much of the evidence. The BBC said it had been unable to verify the Zaka volunteer's account, and pointed out that Israeli media reports have questioned some of the testimony of volunteers who worked in the aftermath of the attack.

Another, Nachman Dyksztejna, provided written testimony detailing how he saw the bodies of two women in kibbutz Be'eri with their hands and legs tied to the bed.

'One was sexually terrorised with a knife stuck in her vagina and all her internal organs removed,' his statement says, according to the BBC.

A civil commission headed by Dr Elkayam-Levy, which has been tasked with collecting evidence and testimony of sexual crimes, is calling on the international community to recognise the October 7 attacks as being systematic abuse, constituting Crimes Against Humanity.

'We see definite patterns,' she told the BBC in an interview. 'So it wasn't incidental, it wasn't random. They came with a clear order. It was [] rape as genocide.'

Benjamin Netanyahu accused international women's rights groups of ignoring the reports of rape and assault

Women with orange tape over their mouths hold signs as they gather in Whitehall on Sunday for the protest

The has also IDF claimed that Hamas terrorists shot female Israeli soldiers 'in the crotch, intimate parts and breasts' as part of a 'systematic genital mutilation'.

Army reservist Shari Mendes said many bodies of female victims from October 7, both civilian and soldiers, arrived 'in bloody shredded rags or just in underwear'.

The soldier - who had been working at Shura Army Base in central Israel where bodies were being identified - was speaking at a UN event in New York on Monday titled 'Hear Our Voices: Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in the October 7 Hamas terror attack'.

She said: 'Our team commander saw several female soldiers who were shot in the crotch, intimate parts, vagina, or shot in the breast.

'This seemed to be a systematic genital mutilation of a group of victims.'

'These women arrived with their eyes opened, their mouths in grimaces, their fists clenched,' she added.

'The soldiers that we dealt with had expressions of agony on their faces still.

'I remember one young woman whose arm was broken in so many places it was difficult for us to lay her arm in the burial shroud, her leg too.

'In her case the entire left side of her body was shredded, torn apart, most likely by a grenade.'

Hours after the video footage of the most recent testimonies were released, US President Joe Biden spoke of how women had been repeatedly raped and mutilated at the music festival.

Speaking in Boston last night he said: 'Reports of women raped  repeatedly raped  and their bodies being mutilated while still alive, of women's corpses being desecrated, Hamas terrorists inflicting as much pain and suffering on women and girls as possible and then murdering them. It is appalling.'

An Israeli soldier walks through the grounds of the Super Nova Festival in Re'im, southern Israel, following the horrific October 7 attacks

Israeli soldiers pay their respects on November 29 to those who died at the festival ground

While investigators are still trying to determine the scope of the sexual assaults, Israel's government has accused the international community - particularly the United Nations - of ignoring the pain of Israeli victims.

'I say to the women's rights organizations, to the human rights organizations, you've heard of the rape of Israeli women, horrible atrocities, sexual mutilation - where the hell are you?' Benjamin Netanyahu said speaking in English to make his point.

Earlier this week the UN's Entity for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women was blasted as a 'disgrace' for 'staying silent' on reports of women being raped and tortured by the terrorist group.

It finally broke its silence and condemned the report on Friday - 57 days after the claims were first made.

In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Saturday morning UN Women said: 'We reiterate that all women, Israeli women, Palestinian women, as all others, are entitled to a life lived in safety and free from violence.'

In a follow-up post it added: 'We unequivocally condemn the brutal attacks by Hamas on Israel on 7 October. We are alarmed by the numerous accounts of gender-based atrocities and sexual violence during those attacks.'

But the time it took to address the issue brought fury from some. Protesters slammed the organisation standing outside Whitehall on Sunday holding pictures of women kidnapped by Hamas.

Speaking on Sky News, Israel's ambassador to Britain Tzipi Hotovely said: 'It took over 50 days for the UN women's organisation to condemn something that is so clear.

'Why and how come it took the UN women's organisation 50 days to deal with that?

'It was part of Hamas' plan, to use sexual violence against women, and we want to make sure the world understands what we are dealing with. Hamas brutally murdered and raped innocent women.'
An 11-year-old boy tragically died after his 12-year-old sister shot him in the head with a rifle during a family hunting trip.

The two Mississippi youngsters were out hunting for rabbits on Saturday with their 19-year-old stepbrother at their grandmother's house on Alex Knight Road when the heartbreaking shooting took place.

During the hunting trip, the boy knelt down to hand his sister the rifle so she could have a turn at shooting the rabbit - but as he stood up she pulled the trigger and he was shot in the head, according to local reports.

Family members immediately jumped into action to provide aid and the EMServ ambulance rushed him to a hospital in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

He continued to fight for his life despite sustaining critical and life-threatening injuries from the .22-caliber rifle gunshot.

Two Mississippi youngsters were out hunting for rabbits on Saturday with their 19-year-old stepbrother at their grandmother's house on Alex Knight Road when a heartbreaking shooting took place

During the hunting trip, the boy knelt down to hand his sister the rifle so she could have a turn at shooting the rabbit - but as he stood up she pulled the trigger and he was shot in the head

Jones County Sheriff's Department public information officer Lance Chancellor described the situation as 'tragic' and said it took an emotional toll on everyone involved

Family members immediately jumped into action to provide the 11-year-old with aid and the EMServ ambulance rushed him to a hospital in Hattiesburg, Mississippi

The young boy was sadly pronounced dead after being first transported to Forrest General Hospital and then the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Jones County Sheriff's Office reported.

The children involved haven't been publicly identified due to their ages.

Officers haven't announced whether any charges will be filed in the 11-year-old's death - but they have called the shooting a 'tragic accident' and said that the investigation is ongoing.

'Right now, our investigation is sadly ongoing,' said Col. Jerry Carter, chief of law enforcement for the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.

Carter took the lead on the the investigation because the shooting was hunting related.

In the initial statement, Carter said 'It was a young lady that shot her brother. It was in Jones County.

Jones County Sheriff's Department public information officer Lance Chancellor described the situation as 'tragic' and said it took an emotional toll on everyone involved.

The young boy was sadly pronounced dead after being first transported to Forrest General Hospital and then the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson

Officers haven't announced whether any charges will be made for the 11-year-old's death - but they have called the shooting a 'tragic accident' and said that the investigation into what exactly happened is ongoing

'Right now, our investigation is sadly ongoing,' said Col. Jerry Carter, chief of law enforcement for the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. Carter took the lead on the the investigation because the shooting was hunting related

The Chancellor said that the boy's organs could save other lives: 'Out of this horrible tragedy, some child or children somewhere around the country will receive organ donations that could be the gift of life.'

Another hunting rifle-related incident in Jones County over the weekend saw a 36-year-old man get shot 'between the eyes' as he reached for his rifle on the top shelf of a closet in his home.

Willie Hall Lack's reach for his weapon apparently caused the .380-caliber handgun below the rifle to discharge - but he was able to walk to a neighbor's house for medical assistance.

Investigators believe that by pulling the rifle, the 36-year-old somehow fired the handgun.

The bullet appeared to have entered the right bridge of Lack's nose and exited the top left side of his forehead.

JCSD Sgt. Denny Graham said 'he's extremely lucky to be alive' and another first responder described him as a 'walking miracle;.
Boris Johnson will today warn the Covid Inquiry that lockdowns caused more harm than good, as he defends his pandemic decisions.

The former prime minister has come under fire at the inquiry for delaying draconian restrictions and for constantly questioning their impact on the economy.

But during two days of evidence beginning this morning, he will suggest the inquiry has given too little consideration to the downsides of restrictions, which damaged education, health and the economy.

In written evidence, Mr Johnson said he had a duty to consider whether lockdowns 'would do (and did do) more harm than good'.

He added: 'We were between a rock and a hard place. We simply had no good choices, and it was necessary at all times to weigh up the harms that any choice would cause.'

Boris Johnson will tell the Covid Inquiry during two days of evidence that lockdowns did more harm than good

The former prime minister is set to face a grilling by the inquiry's chief counsel, Hugo Keith KC (pictured)

He will also repeat his denials that he ever said to 'let the bodies pile high' rather than order a third lockdown, according to The Mirror.

Downing Street at the time strongly denied he made the comment, insisting it was 'just another lie'.

Mr Johnson's former chief of staff Lord Lister told the inquiry last month he heard the former PM say the words during a meeting in September 2020.

He is also set to be quizzed about Sir Patrick Vallance's diary entries in which he wrote about his frustrations in dealing with the then-prime minister.

'(Mr Johnson is) obsessed with older people accepting their fate and letting the young get on with life and the economy going,' he said.

'Quite bonkers set of exchanges,' he wrote, referring to a WhatsApp group including Mr Johnson.

An ally of Mr Johnson told The Mirror: 'He of course realises that as Prime Minister he had the ultimate responsibility for everything that happened in Government at every level and he does not shirk that.'

Tory MP Sir Michael Fabricant said the inquiry appeared at times to be more interested in 'salacious' WhatsApp messages between ministers and officials than in learning the lessons of the crisis.

And he appealed for Mr Johnson to be given a fair hearing: 'I have been a little worried that the inquiry has drifted into who swore what at whom rather than focusing on the lessons learned in case, God forbid, we have another pandemic.

'I just hope that Boris will be heard by people with an open mind rather than the prejudice which he has met in the past at other hearings.'

Another supporter of the former PM said the inquiry appeared to have started from a presumption that lockdowns were the right response to the pandemic and that the Government had been too slow.

Mr Johnson goes for a morning run near his Oxfordshire home on the eve of giving evidence to the inquiry

'They only seem to be interested in asking whether we should have locked down sooner or for longer,' the source said.

'There has been very little discussion so far of the incredibly difficult trade-offs involved or of the constantly changing scientific advice, which was against locking down early on.

'If you really want to learn the lessons of the pandemic you  which is what Boris is interested in  you have to look at everything, not start with a pre-determined narrative.'

Mr Johnson is expected to acknowledge that the first lockdown of March 2020 was inevitable, given the lack of a vaccine or effective treatments against a deadly new virus.

But in his written testimony he said he had been 'very worried about the economic harm caused... and whether it would do more damage to the country than the virus itself'.

He is also expected to suggest that the inquiry should take more interest in the origins of the virus. Michael Gove was shut down at the hearings when he suggested that a 'significant body of judgment' now believed Covid-19 was man-made.

Mr Johnson will apologise for mistakes made by the Government during the pandemic.

But he will insist that ministers 'got the big calls right': achieving one of the fastest vaccine rollouts in the world, preventing the collapse of the NHS, developing innovative treatments like dexamethasone and emerging from the final lockdown quickly.

He will also reject claims that he 'switched off' during a half-term break in February 2020.
This is the heartbreaking moment a seven-year-old girl asks police for help after being left alone in a car for six hours while her mother drank in a local bar.

Police were called to the The Perfect Spot Restaurant and Bar in DeLand, Florida, on October 29 after a child walked in and asked staff for help finding her mother.

When officers arrived around 3am, they learned the child was left in an unlocked car, which was turned off, in the dark parking lot outside the establishment.

Veronica Roxanne Elliott, 35, was later arrested and charged with child neglect without great bodily harm.

Newly released police bodycam footage shows the moment police ask Elliot's daughter 'where's your mommy at?'

Newly released police bodycam footage shows the moment a seven-year-old girl asks police for help after being left in a car alone for six hours

Searching the vehicle officers discover the mom left her phone and keys in the car

'I don't know' the bewildered child tells officers, as a member of bar staff attempts to comfort her.

'You said you walked from your car?' an officer can be heard asking gently.

'Yeah because I fell asleep...and she hasn't been there ever since,' the child, clutching a pumpkin toy, explains.

'She said she would be there and then after 10 minutes she never came back,' she added.

The child then leads officers to the parking lot and points out the car she was left in.

Searching the vehicle officers discover the mom left her phone and keys in the car.

'She never leaves the car without me,' the child explains to the officers 'she said it was really important and it would be really quick.'

Adding: 'She would never leave me, she's never done anything like this before.'

Several hours later. around 6:30am officers eventually located the mother barefoot outside the bar

Veronica Roxanne Elliott, 35, was later arrested and charged with child neglect without great bodily harm

The 35-year-old claimed she had only meant to be gone for 10 minutes. She was at the bar to meet a man and woke up in a different vehicle across the parking lot hours later

The little girl was left alone in the parking lot of The Perfect Spot Restaurant and Bar in DeLand, Florida

The Florida mom's seven-year-old was left in an unattended, unlocked car while Elliott drank inside, police say

Several hours later. around 6:30am officers eventually located the mother barefoot outside the bar.

The mother told officers she woke up in a stranger's car after drinking beer with a friend.

'All I know is I came here to meet friends and then I woke up in that car' she explains.

'I didn't mean to leave my seven-year-old in the car, I would never do such a thing.'

Concerned officers probed the mother about her alcohol consumption, which she concluded totaled three beers.

One officer questioned the mother about whether she thought she may have been violated in any way, to which she could not give a conclusive answer.

Police concluded her slurred speech and body movements were consistent with a person under the influence, and she was taken into custody.

Her daughter was left alone near other cars where people were sleeping and drinking alcohol, officials stated.

She faces up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine if convicted.

Elliott was booked into the Volusia County Branch Jail and released the following day after posting a $2,500 surety bond.

The Florida Department of Children and Families took custody of her daughter.
A radio presenter has slammed the $2.3million compensation payout to former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins that was revealed in the Federal Court on Tuesday.

Ms Higgins got the payout after she alleged she had been raped in a government minister's office in March 2019 by fellow political staffer Bruce Lehrmann.

The criminal trial into Mr Lehrmann - who has always denied the allegation - collapsed in October 2022 due to juror misbehaviour and was subsequently abandoned due to fears for Ms Higgins' mental health.

Speaking on 2GB radio on Wednesday morning, Ben Fordham said the payout had 'never been properly explained and it's never been justified'.

'The former political staffer has confirmed the figure in the Federal Court, and it begs the question, what was the reason for that compensation being paid to Brittany,' he asked.

Brittany Higgins (pictured centre) leaves after her final day in the witness stand at the Federal Court of Australia in Sydney, Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Fordham said he objected because Ms Higgins' 'shocking allegation about that night in Parliament House has never been proven'.

READ MORE: Brittany Higgins snaps outside court after being asked about her alleged rapist Bruce Lehrmann Brittany Higgins has taken a brutal swipe at a TV reporter following her final day of giving evidence in the Federal Court. Advertisement

But the shock jock said what Ms Higgins previously said 'about what happened in the days and weeks after that night in Parliament House, well, that story's been torn to shreds under cross examination in court'.

'But if we leave to one side, the she-said, he-said about the night in Parliament House, this was a political issue too because Labor was milking it for all it was worth.

'And a senior figure, (Canberra MP) Katy Gallagher, even received a briefing about the allegations before they were made public,' Fordham said.

He said that Ms Higgin's boyfriend David Sharaz said in a message that then prime minister Scott Morrison was about to be 'effed over... just wait' and that she had replied 'We've got him'.

Fordham said that after Labor won power in the May 2022 federal election, 'a compensation payment was approved for Brittany. It happened at lightning speed'.

'Her former bosses, (Senator) Michaelia Cash and (Senator) Linda Reynolds were barred from being part of that process and it happened without a compensation claim ever being filed in court.'

He said Ms Higgins 'had claimed that she would not be able to work for 40 years. The Albanese government paid the 2.3million without challenging the veracity of that claim ...

'Brittany claims that Linda Reynolds and Michaelia Cash failed her and exacerbated a toxic and harmful work environment.'

Fordham said Ms Cash and Ms Reynolds deny any wrongdoing, and 'In fact, it was Linda Reynolds and her then chief of staff, Fiona Brown who encouraged Brittany to go to the police.'

He said legal experts his show had spoken to said they had never seen something settled so fast. 'So why was the money paid? That remains the $2.3million question.'

Fordham said 'The matter of compensation is a political issue because the Labor Party made it one. They were receiving briefings before the allegation was aired on TV.

Bruce Lehrmann (right) is pictured arriving to the Federal Court of Australia in Sydney on Wednesday, December 6, 2023

'So from Labor's point of view, this was a conflict of interest. Brittany's supporters handed them all of the info they needed to put a bomb under the Coalition.

'And when Labor was sworn in, they handed Brittany Higgins $2.3million.

'That's never been properly explained and it's never been justified,' Fordham said.
The sudden death of a woman from complications due to diabetes has left her family shocked as she appeared to be otherwise healthy.

Ebony Taylor, 22, was found unconscious by her aunt Stacey Banks at her home in Logan, southwest of Brisbane, on November 27 after an overnight stay to help Ms Banks with her children.

Ms Taylor had been diagnosed with type-one diabetes at the age of six and had periods of illness in the past, once falling into a coma, but not in the six months prior to her death.

Doctors believe her death was due to diabetic ketoacidosis, a severe complication that causes the body to produce excess blood acids when there isn't enough insulin.

In a heartbreaking twist, it was revealed that Ms Taylor's uncle had died just last year from issues relating to type-one diabetes.

Brisbane woman, Ebony Taylor (pictured), 22, died on November 27 after suffering a critical complication related to type-one diabetes which she had battled since the age of six

READ MORE: Sad twist as mum allegedly stabbed by teenage girls as she tried to break up a street fight over online trolling dies 10 days after the incident Advertisement

Ms Banks said that despite the best efforts of her husband and paramedics to save Ms Taylor's life, too much time had gone by and she was pronounced dead soon after her mother arrived at the scene.

She recalled her niece having complications in the past but hadn't had any issues since getting a new glucose monitoring device.

Usual indicators that Ms Taylor's condition was diminishing such as inability to eat and being too tired to stand up were also not present on the night of her death.

Ms Taylor's mother, Susan, said her daughter's recent track record with the disease led her family to believe that 'she was finally on track'.

'It's just crap, there's not much I can say about it,' Ms Taylor told the Queensland Times.

'I'm sad, I'm angry. I keep hoping it's a bad dream and it's not real.'

Ms Taylor had shown no sign of her condition deteriorating and had been in good health in the six months prior but succumbed to the disease nonetheless

The young woman is being remembered as a happy and loud bartender who loved to talk to customers at the Diggers Services Club in Logan.

Ms Banks told the publication that her niece would 'drop everything' for family, regularly attending her young cousins' school performances and buying them presents even if she was low on funds.

She revealed that the Christmas period, Ms Taylor's favourite holiday, would be particularly tough for the family.

A GoFundme for Ms Taylor's family has received just under $3,000 of its $8,000 goal in just four days since first being posted.
Thousands of Telstra customers have been reimbursed after the telco giant was fined by the communications watchdog for wrongly overcharging Aussies over a 11-year period.

An Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) investigation found that 6,532 customers were charged an average $2,600 for inactive internet services between April 2012 and August 2023.

Telstra has since forked out a whopping $24m in penalties and refunds for the 'significant' billing error.

The figure included a $3,010,320 fine and more than $17million in refunds to customers wrongly overcharged.

Telstra has forked out $24m in penalties and refunds for its latest 'significant' billing error which impacted thousands of customers

Thousands of Telstra customers have been reimbursed after the telco giant was fined by the communications watchdog (stock image)

A further $3.4m will be refunded by the end of the year.

It's the third time in three years Telstra has been found wrongly overcharging customers.

READ MORE: Telstra dragged into catastrophic Optus technology fail that shut down half of Australia Advertisement

In a scathing statement issued on Wednesday, ACMA Chair Nerida O'Loughlin said the media watchdog had 'lost patience' with Telstra after the latest billing debacle.

In September 2020, the ACMA found that Telstra had overcharged more than 10,000 customers almost $2.5 million over a 12-year period.

A separate investigation in 2022 found Telstra overcharged more than 11,000 customers around $1.7 million.

'It's just not good enough,' Ms O'Loughlin said.

'At a time when many small businesses are facing economic pressures, unaccounted costs can create very real stress and financial hardship.

'All telcos must have robust billing systems in place to ensure that consumers, including small businesses, are only paying for agreed and active services.

'Telstra is a major player in the Australian telco sector and it needs to continue to prioritise its billing compliance and get its systems in order.

Telstra has blamed the billing issues on the company's failure to follow the steps in its ADSL internet service deactivation process after customers switched to the NBN.

The telco giant has admitted affected customers deserve better. Pictured is Telstra chief executive Vicki Brady

In a statement to Daily Mail Australia, Telstra says it self-reported the issue to ACMA and has refunded the majority of customers, along with interest.

The telco is getting in contact with the remaining customers.

'Getting something as important as billing wrong isnt acceptable, and this is clearly not the experience we want to be providing our customers,' group executive for global business services Dean Salter said.

Weve let these customers down. We apologise for this, and its clear we need to do better.

'Weve reached out to our customers to explain what went wrong and what were doing to fix it, including refunding them for the incorrect charges with interest.

New processes have been put in place to stop this happening again.

Telstra has been urged by the communications watchdog to prioritise its billing compliance and get its systems in order

'These ADSL billing errors occurred because we didnt follow the proper deactivation process, including when some customers migrated to the NBN, which resulted in some customers being charged for inactive services,' Mr Salter added.

'We have put new controls in place to prevent this issue from happening again, including monthly checks if ADSL services are being used by customers before theyre billed.

The company will report back to the ACMA in six months about the effectiveness of the new controls.

ACMA has threatened further action, including commencing proceedings in the Federal Court if further breaches of the billing accuracy rules occur.

Customers who suspect they've been wrongly billed are urged to address the issue with the provider and to contact the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman if it can't be resolved.
A police officer has been deemed a flight risk and prohibited from travelling overseas after he was accused of killing great-grandmother Clare Nowland when he Tasered her in a nursing home.

Senior Constable Kristian James Samuel White, 33, was called to Yallambee Lodge nursing home in Cooma on May 17 after the 95-year-old was found holding a knife.

Police allege he asked Mrs Nowland to drop the knife before saying 'bugger it' and discharging his Taser at the dementia patient, who was using a walking frame. She sustained a brain injury when she fell backwards and died in hospital days later.

Kristian White, the NSW Police officer who tasered Clare Nowland in an aged care facility before the 95-year-old great-grandmother died, has been deemed a flight risk

Constable White was charged with recklessly causing grievous bodily harm, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and common assault over the alleged 'excessive use of force'.

However, police upgraded his charges last week to include an additional charge of manslaughter on advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

On Wednesday, Constable White was flanked by loved ones as he walked into court with his red curls slicked back and a navy suit.

Crown prosecutor Victoria Garrity confirmed the manslaughter charge had been laid on the 33-year-old and asked for further bail conditions to be imposed.

However, magistrate Roger Clisdell took issue with the parties agreement to consent to the bail conditions without his oversight.

'I make a decision,' he said.

'I would have thought my last explosion would have caused you to be more sensitive to my position.'

Ms Garrity explained the prosecution was asking for Constable White to surrender his passport to mitigate the risk of flight.

'With the more serious charge now being faced, there is a heightened risk that he would leave the jurisdiction and not face court,' she said.

'Those two new conditions are now appropriate.'

Constable White's lawyer Warwick Anderson consented to the new bail conditions 'to facilitate the speedy resolution' of the matter.

'He has no intention of fleeing the jurisdiction,' he said of his client.

Mr Clisdell grumblingly agreed to add the two new conditions that prohibit Constable White from leaving the country.

He was also ordered to surrender his passport, which he did straight after the matter concluded, to the court on Wednesday morning.

Police allege his actions were 'grossly disproportionate' and 'excessive' in the context of the great-grandmother's age and poor health.

Constable White was pulled out of bed to respond to reports Mrs Nowland had been holding a knife and entering the rooms of other residents at Yallambee nursing home on May 17.

According to police, the 95-year-old was holding two kitchen knives as she wheeled her walking frame into the rooms of three other residents and leant over their beds as they slept.

As staff tried to coax her out of one of the rooms, she allegedly threw a knife at one of the nursing home employees which landed on the ground.

Staff called the police, and Constable White and a female colleague arrived at the nursing home shortly before 5am to assist.

They found the dementia patient sitting in an office with a kitchen knife and a torch in her hand.

When asked to drop the knife, police claim she placed the torch on the desk before slowly standing up with the assistance of her four-wheeled walking frame.

When the unnamed female officer tried to retrieve the knife, Mrs Nowland slightly lifted her hand off her walker and pointed it towards her.

Police allege Constable White activated his Taser and pointed it at the chest of the 43kg woman.

'Clare, stop now, see this, this is a taser,' he cautioned Mrs Nowland.

'Drop it now, drop it, this is your first warning.'

Clare Nowland died in May after she was allegedly Tasered in her nursing home

As the 95-year-old continued to 'slowly' approach, Constable White lit up the device and told her: 'See, you are going to get tased.'

Police allege Mrs Nowland had the knife when the 33-year-old said 'stop, just ... nah bugger it' and discharged the stun gun into her chest.

The great-grandmother fell backwards and struck her head 'heavily' on the nursing home floor.

She sustained an inoperable brain injury and died days later in the Cooma Hospital.

In a statement, Mrs Nowland's eight children, 24 grandchildren, and 30 great-grandchildren said Constable White's alleged actions were 'extremely confronting and shocking'.

They are suing the NSW government over the incident.

Several of the extensive family members gathered at Cooma courthouse for the first mention of Constable White's upgraded charges.
Grace Jabbari left court in New York City Tuesday after recounting in public the 'excruciating assault' she alleges she suffered at the hands of Marvel star Jonathan Majors.

Jabbari, a 30-year-old British-born choreographer, testified at Manhattan Criminal Court today - saying that the star 'wanted me to feel pain' on the second day of his trial.

Majors looked unsettled as his ex-girlfriend described the alleged 'excruciating' assault she went through.

The actor has denied charges of assault with intent to cause physical injury, assault recklessly causing physical injury, aggravated harassment and harassment.

The allegations have stalled the career of Majors, 34, who plays the evil Kang the Conqueror in the Marvel films and also appears in Creed 3.

Grace Jabbari left court in New York City Tuesday after recounting in public the 'excruciating assault' she alleges she suffered at the hands of Marvel star Jonathan Majors

Marvel star Jonathan Majors is seen arriving in court for the second day of his assault trial

He was dropped by his manager - and his latest film about a bodybuilder, which stunned audiences at this years Sundance film festival, was tipped for an Oscar but has now been put on hold.

As the court came into session on Tuesday, Majors sat at a table with his lawyers reading a Bible he brought with him.

He brushed away a loose hair from his lawyer, Priya Chaudhry, and smiled at her.

His girlfriend Meagan Good and her mother sat in the front row of the public gallery - Majors kissed them both before the hearing began.

On the opposite side of the public gallery sat three of Jabbaris family members.

Majors appeared to be unsettled as Jabbari recounted the excruciating assault to the jury that felt as if he wanted me to feel pain.

Majors veered between incredulous and wounded with a furrowed brow. At times he looked away indignantly and rubbed his eyes, and looked back at his girlfriend Meagan Good in the public gallery for support.

Good shook her head as videos showed Majors running away from Jabbari after the alleged attack.

Jabbari, 30, is a British-born choreographer, and testified at Manhattan Criminal Court today - saying that the star 'wanted me to feel pain' on the second day of his trial

Majors looked unsettled as Jabbari described the alleged 'excruciating' assault she went through

Majors and his partner, Meagan Good, dodge the grates on the New York sidewalk as they arrive at court on Tuesday

Majors is accused of grabbing Jabbari (pictured right) and twisting her arm on the way home from a night out after she spotted a flirty text from another woman. He denies the allegations

Jabbari said the evening of the attack in March this year she and Majors had been to see a play in Brooklyn and had dinner and were driving home in a hired car.

As Majors scrolled on his phone, Jabbari saw he had sent a romantic song by rapper DAngelo to somebody.

She said: I said who have you sent that to, jokingly. A message popped up saying I wish I was kissing you right now or something like that.

He didnt really say anything and the next message popped up oh its not what it looks like. I was like I dont know how else that looks? I was so taken aback.

Jabbari admitted she spoke in a loud voice.

She said: Our whole relationship I never considered infidelity to be one of the things that was also happening. (I said) What is that?

(He said) its not what it seems, baby baby. Baby, its not what it seems

He was really alert, like hed been caught out.

I was saying let me see the messages and he wasnt so I grabbed his phone and turned away from him.

Moving her shoulder to the left and pulling her hands down, she said: I really easily grabbed it, like he wasnt expecting me to take it

I turned away from him. I was trying to see the message and I could just see his home screen.

I felt a heavy thud on top of me, what I knew to be the weight of him and trying to pry the phone out of my fingers but I was going into protective mode. I curled over and felt him yank my arm.

He was trying to pry the phone out of my hands. When that wasnt successful he put his arm behind my back, putting her right arm behind her back.

Jabbari said Majors began peeling her fingers off the phone and was twisting my arm, my hand.

(He was) trying to make me feel pain. Just felt excruciating, she said.

Next I felt a really hard blow across my head making a swiping motion over the back right side of her head.

It took me aback. I was in pain but I was thinking who is this girl?

I said just show me it, if its nothing. Are you cheating on me? I was upset, confused, he has his arms out. He was pressing me everywhere it could reach it felt.

Jabbari couldnt fend off Majors because he was very strong. I couldnt move, she said.

He was using his hands and his arms to force me. Everywhere, my face, my arms, my neck, my chest. Head.

I tried to hit his arms away, I was hitting like that, using both arms to indicate she slapped him.

Asked if she scratched Majors, Jabbari said no.

Majors ordered the driver to stop and then turned around and pushed her back into the car, Jabbari said

The jury were shown security camera footage of the car stopped in the middle of the street.

Majors can be seen lifting Jabbari up and putting her back in the car as she tries to get out.

He walks to the sidewalk then runs off, with Jabbari running after him.

Describing what was happening, Jabbari said: He was trying to make me stay in the car, trying to push me. My body felt very light in his hands so it felt just that he was forcing me to stay in his car. He was holding me with (his arms). My arms were by my body.

He was running away. I couldnt work out why I followed. I wanted to hear - literally that morning were talking about when were getting married, the names of our children and hes running away instead of saying actually Ive had an affair. It was silence and bolting out the doorI was really heartbroken.

Jabbari said she felt sad.

She said: Everything I knew to be true was not.

As the court came into session on Tuesday, Majors sat at a table with his lawyers reading a Bible he brought with him

Grace Jabbari's sister arrives at court wearing a camel-colored coat

Jonathan Majors, left, and his girlfriend Meagan Good held hands as they entered court on Monday

Creed actor Majors walked into the Manhattan court on Monday wearing a dark suit, sunglasses, black boots and a black beret - carrying a Bible and a notebook

Prosecutors had previously detailed how Majors attacked Jabbari to cover up his infidelity.

Emmy-nominated Majors is said to have got into a row with Jabbari as they returned from a New York City bar when she saw a text from another woman which read: Wish I was kissing you right now.

In his opening statement, prosecutor Michael Perez said the assault came after Majors subjected Jabbari to months of a 'cruel and manipulative pattern of psychological and physical abuse'.

The alleged abuse included throwing things at the wall and berating her for not living up to the standards of Michelle Obama and Coretta Scott King, the wife of Martin Luther King.

Majors has strongly denied the allegations and his lawyers said that Jabbari was the one who attacked him as they rode home, then chased him through the streets of Manhattan when he exited their car.

Jabbari did it in 'revenge' for finding out that Majors had been texting another woman, the jury was told.

Majors lawyer Priya Chaudhry said: 'This is the case about the end of a relationship, not a crime. At least, not one that Mr Majors committed.
With nine more days of spiteful and life-threatening strike action planned over Christmas and New Year, it's hard not to despair of the BMA's junior doctors.

In pursuit of a ludicrous and unaffordable 35 per cent pay increase, they are abandoning their posts, costing the NHS a fortune in cover payments and actively worsening waiting lists.

With such apparently scant regard for the safety and welfare of their patients, it is a mystery that they wanted to be doctors at all. With every new walkout, their reputation plummets further.

And they add insult to injury with their childish sanctimony. Despite being offered 3 per cent on top of the 8.8 per cent they have already received  a handsome sum  they see it as derisory.

'We have no choice but to strike,' their spokesman said. This is rubbish. They could choose to concentrate on caring for the sick rather than indulging in petty politics.

Striking Junior doctors and consultants organised by the BMA are joined by members of the UNITE union, on strike for more pay against the East London NHS Foundation Trust on September 20

Risibly, they also say that by striking for higher pay they are helping to secure the future of the health service. This too is tosh. They are inflicting enormous damage on the institution they claim to love out of petulance and greed.

Taxpayers, and by extension NHS patients, shelled out around 250,000 to train each of these doctors. It's about time they showed some gratitude and stopped holding the NHS to ransom.

Rwanda fight goes on

No-one could accuse the Government of meekly throwing in the towel in its fight to send cross-Channel asylum seekers to Rwanda.

After setbacks in the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court, both of which ruled the plan unlawful, they were back in the central African country yesterday for another round.

Home Secretary James Cleverly and his Rwandan counterpart signed a new bilateral treaty containing extra safeguards to overcome the courts' objections and get the beleaguered scheme off the ground.

Home Secretary James Cleverly at the Kigali Genocide Memorial during his visit to Kigali to sign a new treaty with Rwanda

Crucially, the treaty prohibits the return of failed asylum seekers to their country of origin or to any other place where they may face persecution, the Supreme Court's principal fear. A new appeals procedure is also to be set up under the auspices of British and Commonwealth judges, with UK experts drafted in as advisers to the Rwandan government.

The Government's doggedness shows how important it is to clear all the legal hurdles before the next election. For while Labour and the liberal Left sneer at the scheme, the public are behind it.

On its own, it would not stop the small boats, but it could help break the people traffickers' business model. Victory would also show Rishi Sunak capable of delivering on his promises and might just begin to turn around his woeful poll standing.

So, the Rwandans have answered the Supreme Court's criticisms with legally binding pledges. Surely the only objections now can be from those who have no real desire to stop the boats  or simply believe our borders should be thrown open to all.

Grim lockdown legacy

Boris Johnson will tell the Covid Inquiry that lockdowns may have done more harm to Britain than the virus itself. How right he is.

They ravaged the economy, added vast sums to our national debt and consigned countless cancer and cardiac patients to an early death. If more evidence were needed of the damage inflicted, a report today reveals that because of school closures, pupils' performance in maths, reading and science has collapsed.

But will those leading the inquiry be interested? Highly unlikely. They obviously believe we should have locked down earlier and for longer. When it comes to the catastrophic effects and toxic legacy, they simply don't want to know.
Paris Hilton's ex-business partner and notorious con man 'Prince Fred' has been charged in murder for hire plot after offering his bodyguard money to kill a director.

Fereidoun Khalilian, known as Prince Fred, was arrested in June for ordering an alleged hit job on a filmmaker who planned to expose the con man in a documentary.

Khalilian is a former Florida nightclub owner who opened Club Paris alongside the queen of socialites in 2005. In addition to cozying up to Paris Hilton, the self-proclaimed prince claimed to be Middle Eastern royalty in order to rub shoulders with others stars such as Demi Lovato, Usher and Drake.

On Wednesday, prosecutors announced that Khalilian, 51, was charged with orchestrating a murder-for-hire plot after the 'prince' offered his bodyguard, Michael Sherwood, $20,000 to kill his filmmaker nemesis, Juan Esco.

A 53-page complaint was filed against the social climbing con man in the U.S. District Court for Nevada.

Paris Hilton 's ex-business partner and notorious con man 'Prince Fred' has been charged in murder for hire plot after offering his bodyguard money to kill a director

On Wednesday, prosecutors announced that Khalilian, 51, was charged with orchestrating a murder-for-hire plot after the 'prince' offered his bodyguard, Michael Sherwood, $20,000 to kill his filmmaker nemesis, Juan Esco (pictured: the staged death of Esco)

Filmmaker J. Esco planned to release a documentary to expose Khalilian's many swindles and scams from over the years

Prosecutors alleged that Khalilian paid Sherwood to kill Esco to prevent the release of the filmmaker's scathing documentary expose that sought to reveal Khalilian's long list of lies, scams and swindles.

Rebecca Levy, federal public defender, is representing Khalilian in court. Her office did not respond when DailyMail.com asked for comment.

Around the time of February 2022 - Khalilian told his security guard that Esco was 'trying to ruin his life with this documentary,' so Sherwood offered to talk to both men to avoid further conflict.

Sherwood grew suspicious of his boss's severe mood swings and becoming alarmed by 'Fred's' fixation on Esco - who the security guard decided was 'not a bad guy'.

Sherwood initially agreed to Khalilian's $20,000 offer and instead went to Esco to warn him of 'Prince Fred's' intentions and the two teamed up against the con-artist to stage the fake murder.

On March 17 - Sherwood took pictures of Esco lying 'dead' on the ground with a pool of blood surrounding him, which he sent to Khalilian who responded by immediately sending his security guard money.

Khalilian transferred them money via Cash App with the caption 'for my guys'. Six days later he sent more money to Sherwood to pay the people that had been hired to 'get rid of his body'.

Sherwood said that Khalilian paid out a total of $12,500.

The con man didn't stop there - he later followed up with a phone call to Sherwood where he told the body guard about others he thought had been working with Esco that he was allegedly 'keen to deal with,' according to the Washington Post.

Khalilian and Sherwood met on June 12 and the con man thanked his employee for committing the crime on his behalf, allegedly telling him 'I was going to kill him myself. I bought a gun, I was coming to L.A. You saved me from myself.'

Fereidoun Khalilian, known as Prince Fred, was arrested in June for ordering an alleged hit job on a filmmaker who planned to expose the con man in a documentary (Khalilian pictured here with Drake)

Prosecutors alleged that Khalilian paid Sherwood to kill Esco to prevent the release of the filmmaker's scathing documentary expose that sought to reveal Khalilian's long list of lies, scams and swindles

The swindler was arrested by the FBI in a Las Vegas Dunkin Donuts shortly after - and he remained incarcerated as his case was investigated.

He was originally charged with 'murder for hire' and denied bail on the grounds he was a flight risk with the ability and resources to leave the US.

According to court records the 51-year-old 'prince' lived in Miami since 1989, and appeared on the radar of the Federal Trade Commission on a number of occasions for his involvement in various fraudulent schemes.

In one alleged fraud, he was accused of selling online gambling software to a Native American tribe in Oklahoma for $9million. After the software appeared to be dysfunctional, the tribe asked for their money back but were refused.

In the early 2000s he was banned from all travel-related telemarketing, and ordered to pay $185,000 to consumers after making fraudulent pitches for travel packages.

According to an account submitted to the court by an FBI agent, Khalilian met Esco in 2009 in Miami while he was working in a computer repair store.

The agent suggested that at the time Khalilian 'wore expensive jewelry and claimed to be a billionaire. He drove a Range Rover and claimed to also have a Lamborghini and Bugatti at his mansion'.

After being impressed by the quality of the Esco's work as a technician, Khalilian invited him to work for his telemarketing company, which operated under the name My Car Solutions.

A complaint filed by the Federal Trade Commission in June 2010 alleged that My Car Solutions would sell motorists fake 'extended' warranty coverage for their cars by claiming to be calling from the manufacturer or the dealer.

Khalilian is a former Florida nightclub owner was opened Club Paris alongside the queen of socialites in 2005. As well as Paris Hilton, the self-proclaimed prince claimed to be Middle Eastern royalty in order to rub shoulders with others stars such as Demi Lovato , Usher and Drake (Khalilian pictured here with Mally Mall)

Khalilian and Sherwood met on June 12 and the con man thanked his employee for committing the crime on his behalf, allegedly telling him 'I was going to kill him myself. I bought a gun, I was coming to L.A. You saved me from myself' (Khalilian pictured here with Carlos Santana)

Esco told the FBI agent that he soon became aware of the fraudulent nature of My Car Solutions and sensed that it preyed on the elderly by selling them fake and unnecessary auto warranties.

The company was eventually raided, fined $4million and shut down.

Though Khalilian wanted Esco to continue working for him, he refused and in 2013 moved to Los Angeles from Miami to work in the film industry.

Six years later, in 2019, the pair randomly bumped into each other in Los Angeles, the court records indicate, and Khalilian introduced himself to his friends as a prince from Dubai.

After researching Khalilian, the filmmaker became intrigued by the elaborate personal narrative which the 'Prince' would offer to various friends and acquaintance.

He convinced Khalilian that he would make a documentary about him - but failed to mention that this was actually going to be an expose which painted him as a con man.

Esco interviewed Khalilian's former business associates, alleged victims and bodyguards.

The bodyguards said in those interviews that Khalilian would make them wear fake Secret Service pins and fake earpieces that were not connected to radios in order to create the illusion that he was an important diplomat.

Eventually the con man began to get a sense that this documentary was going to be harmful to his reputation and Esco began getting on his nerves.
Shocking footage has revealed dozens of Aussies are now taking up residence in a growing tent city within a picturesque waterside park in one of Australia's capital cities.

The footage, which was posted online on Wednesday, shows groupings of tents pitched along the Brisbane river between the William Jolly and Go Between bridges in the inner-city suburb of South Brisbane.

Many of the tents can be seen huddled together under large trees while park benches and seating appear to being used as a drying rack.

The video caught the eye of Brisbanites who claim the issue of homelessness is getting worse across the nation.

The shocking scene follows on from record housing and rental prices, causing a surge in the number of homeless Australians.

The post to Reddit noted the park 'seems like a safe place to go for people that haven't been able to get approved for housing' but reflected a much larger issue.

'Clearly there is something wrong and real estate greed is becoming more rampant since the pandemic,' the post reads.

'I hope the housing and rental market improves soon.'

Hundreds of shocked users commented on the post to claim they had seen other tent cities across Brisbane and elsewhere in Australia.

One user said there had been tents in the park for 'at least five years but this is definitely the worst I've seen it'.

'The tents have returned to Musgrave Park in West End, too,' a second user wrote describing it as 'soul destroying'.

'Worst I've ever seen Brisbane and I've lived here 20 odd years,' a third wrote.

'Ive seen tent cities in Los Angeles and Washington, I didnt ever think I would see a similar situation in Australia. What have we become?' another person lamented.

'The idea we would even have a single homeless person in town was laughable only five years ago,' another person observed.

Another user admitted he was closing in on having to live in a tent but was 'aiming for tents on the beach'.

Footage from the Brisbane River's foreshore has revealed a growing tent city of homeless people amid housing and cost of living crises (pictured)

The tents can be seen grouped together under trees between the William Jolly and Go Between bridges in the inner-city suburb of South Brisbane

Vacancy rates in Brisbane have stayed below one per cent for all but one of the 20 months leading up to October.

During that same period rental prices have increased by 25 percent and housing costs rose by about 18 per cent.

Queensland has seen the largest increase in requests for homelessness assistance of any state, according to a report from Homelessness Australia.

The peak body for homelessness found 16,225 filed for assistance in the state in March 2023, a 12.9 per cent increase from December 2022.

Western Australia and New South Wales followed close behind with jumps of over 11 and 10 per cent respectively, while the national figure sat at a 7.5 per cent increase in those seeking assistance.

Homelessness Australia found that 83 per cent of the roughly 95,000 people seeking assistance nationwide were doing so because of 'issues with their housing or financial stress'.

The body's CEO, Kate Colvin, said the 7.5 per cent increase was unprecedented and has put homelessness services under pressure.

'A 7.5 per cent increase in demand in just four months is unheard of,' Ms Colvin said.

'It forces homelessness services to make extremely tough decisions about who gets assistance.'
The roof of a double-decker bus was torn off after hitting a low bridge during the morning rush hour - in the latest crash at an accident hotspot.

Luckily, the vehicle wasn't carrying any passengers and police said no one was seriously injured.

But the incident - which occurred at 7.20am yesterday - caused travel disruption.

The road was blocked in both directions as emergency crews dealt with the aftermath, and diversions were set up.

Bus services in the area were also impacted.

Greater Manchester Police were called to Eccles in Salford during rush hour where they found the bus at the notorious site.

The bridge - just 11ft 6 inches high - has been the site of many similar crashes.

The roof of a double-decker bus was torn off after hitting a low bridge during rush hour

The bridge - just 11ft 6 inches high - (pictured) has been the site of many similar crashes

In April, another double-decker had its roof nearly torn off entirely as the driver tried to pass under it.

The road was closed in both directions following that accident, again causing congestion in the area.

In June 2020, three passengers were hurt in a similar accident which saw the roof bent backwards and the glass shattered across the top deck.

Officers from Greater Manchester Police, firefighters and an ambulance responded to the accident, with 'minor injuries' sustained to those in the crash.

That accident also occurred during rush hour - at 5.27pm on a Friday.

The crash bent the roof backwards and shattering the glass across the top deck, leaving windows empty in a similar accident in June 2020

A spokesperson for the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said about yesterday's incident: 'Two engines from Eccles and Stretford fire stations as well as the technical response unit from Ashton fire station attended an incident where a double-decker bus had crashed into a bridge.

'Firefighters removed the bus from the bridge and made the vehicle safe before handing over to colleagues from Greater Manchester Police and the Bridgewater Canal team.

'Crews were in attendance for one hour and 30 minutes.'
Marjorie Taylor Greene has accused fellow Georgia Republican Rep. Rich McCormick of getting physically aggressive with her and allegedly shaking her over an argument about the censor of Rep. Rashida Tlaib.

Sources told CNN that in a private meeting with House Speaker Mike Johnson last week, Greene claimed her male colleague 'grabbed her by the shoulders and shook her' and asked the Speaker to address the issue.

The Georgia Republicans sparred after Greene's resolution to censure Democrat Tlaib for condemning Israel after the Hamas terrorist attacks failed and McCormick put forward his own version which passed.

'I understand why there would be a lot of raw emotions following the censure vote given that her censure was tabled and mine passed. My intention was to encourage Rep. Greene by making a friendly gesture, said McCormick.

'I said to her, "at least we can have an honest discussion," to which she said she did not appreciate that. For that I immediately apologized and have not spoken to her since.'

Marjorie Taylor Greene has accused her male colleague Rep. Rich McCormick of getting physically aggressive with her in spat over competing censure resolution

McCormick said he meant the gesture to be friendly and apologized to her when she expressed she did not appreciate it

However, last week Greene told CNN she has a 'serious' situation with an unnamed male colleague.

Greene's censure resolution failed to gain traction after Republicans took issue with her claim that Tlaib 'incited an insurrection' by speaking at a ceasefire protest on Capitol Hill where around 300 were later arrested.

She changed the language to inciting an 'illegal occupation' - but Rep. Rich McCormick's resolution to censure Tlaib for antisemitic language came up for a vote first and passed with 22 Democratic votes.

DailyMail.com has reached out to both Greene and McCormick for comment.

A recent news article on McCormick's website has the headline 'McCormick, not Greene, takes lead as House censures Tlaib.'

When her resolution failed, Greene went on a tirade against the Republicans who voted against it.

Specifically, she called out her Colorado colleagues as 'CNN wannabe' Rep. Ken Buck and 'vaping groping' Rep. Lauren Boebert in response to Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) reasoning that the 'feckless resolution to censure Tlaib was deeply flawed.

Tlaib has also been criticized by the White House and members of her own party for using the pro-Palestinian chant 'from the river to the sea' following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7 that killed 1,400 people.

Greene and McCormick sparred over competing censure resolutions of Rep. Rashida Tlaib. McCormick's resolution passed and Greene's failed

She defiantly said she will not be silenced following the censure and defended her right to criticize Israel.

The Michigan Democrat noted that she is the only Palestinian-American in Congress.

'My perspective is needed here now more than ever. I will not be silenced and I will not let you distort my words,' she said.

'My criticism has always been of the Israeli government. The idea that criticizing the Israeli government is antisemitic sets a dangerous precedent.'

'I can't believe I have to say this but Palestinian people are not disposable. We are human beings. Just like my grandmother, like all Palestinians, who just wants to live her life with the freedom and human dignity we all deserve.'
The BBC has been branded the 'neighbour from hell' by newspaper bosses over its plans to expand its local news coverage.

Editors at major regional news publishers said the 'state-funded juggernaut' was 'on course to suffocate independent journalism' across the UK.

In a co-signed letter, published by an array of local titles, they told director-general Tim Davie he faces a 'shameful legacy' if he does not change his approach.

The BBC is 'strengthening' its local websites in 43 areas using money redistributed from local radio, where 45 presenter roles are being axed.

The letter, signed by figures from groups including Reach, Iliffe Media, Newsquest and National World, claimed the BBC is 'fixated' on 'stealing' their readers.

Editors at major local news publishers have written a letter to BBC director-general Tim Davie (pictured attending a service to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the NHS at Westminster Abbey in July) saying the broadcaster is 'fixated' on 'stealing our readers'

The BBC is 'strengthening' its local websites in 43 areas using money redistributed from local radio, where 45 presenter roles are being axed

It said: 'If the BBC was a family and lived in the house next door it would be the neighbour from hell.

'Unlike Google, Meta and co, the BBC's funding is guaranteed by the licence fee, meaning the British public is underwriting the biggest threat local journalism has ever faced.'

The BBC said 'there is no evidence' it is 'crowding out other digital publishers'.
Brittany Higgins' close confidante Ben Dillaway was her 'on-off' lover and one of the first to be told of her alleged rape by Bruce Lehrmann.

Mr Dillaway, a former political spin doctor turned media guru for a global company, was thrust back in the spotlight this week after flirtatious texts with Ms Higgins were revealed in court.

Five weeks after her alleged rape, Ms Higgins sent Mr Dillaway selfies she took wearing the same white dress she wore the night she claims the incident occurred.

The pictures were part of a tranche of documents released by the Federal Court as part Mr Lehrmann's defamation action against Lisa Wilkinson and Network Ten.

'I'm working on my selfie game,' she wrote to Mr Dillaway, admitting in court this week that she was 'trying to be flirty'.

'F***, you look hot,' Mr Dillaway, now a devout Christian, replied to the texts.

Brittany Higgins ' close confidante Ben Dillaway (pictured together in the red circle) was her 'on-off' lover and one of the first to be told of her alleged rape by Bruce Lehrmann

Five weeks after her alleged rape, Brittany Higgins sent Mr Dillaway selfies she took wearing the same white dress she wore the night she claims the incident occurred

The pictures were part of a tranche of documents released by the Federal Court as part Mr Lehrmann's defamation action against Lisa Wilkinson and Network Ten

Ben Dillaway (pictured), a former political spin doctor turned media guru for a global company, was thrust back in the spotlight this week after his texts with Ms Higgins were revealed

Brittany Higgins said the steamy selfies were intended to be 'flirty'

The former Gold Coast journalist was a longstanding media adviser for Queensland Liberal MP Steve Ciobo when he first met Ms Higgins in late 2018.

The pair were thrown together while working as Coalition staffers in Parliament, but within a few months, they soon became friends and then lovers by early 2019.

Canberra insiders told Daily Mail Australia the pair had 'just clicked' and began what was described in court as a 'close personal relationship'.

The friendship became intimate - but despite the closeness between the pair, their relationship never became serious.

Ms Higgins told the Federal Court this week that they had been in an on-off relationship, and would sometimes send each other 'sexts'.

Party workers at that time recall an 'end of the world' mentality which swept through Canberra with the government facing apparent certain defeat at the federal election.

Coalition staffers were living on the edge of an uncertain future, said insiders, unsure of where they would be living or even if they would have a job within a few months.

Relationships like Ms Higgins and Mr Dillaway's could quickly blow up, but just as quickly fade away, said fellow staffers.

Her whirlwind affair with Mr Dillaway had already fizzled out by the time of the alleged rape, which Mr Lehrmann strenuously denies, on March 23, 2019.

However, Mr Dillaway, 38, was still considered a close friend and confidante.

In the wake of the alleged rape at Parliament House, Ms Higgins told him the after-hours drinks had ended up at the minister's office, which he thought was unusual.

She added: 'I need to slow down a bit. It's probably gotten a little out of hand recently haha.'

Three days after the alleged attack, she finally admitted to him the night 'didnt play out how I made out'.

'I dont remember getting there at all, vaguely remember Bruce being there and then I woke up in the morning half dressed by myself in the Minister's office on Saturday morning,' she wrote.

Former Gold Coast journalist Ben Dillaway (right) was a longstanding media advisor for Queensland Liberal MP Steve Ciobo (left) when he first met Ms Higgins in late 2018

Brittany Higgins' whirlwind affair with Ben Dillaway had already begun to fizzle out by the time of the alleged rape, which Bruce Lehrmann (pictured) strenuously denies, on March 23, 2019

'It was just Bruce and I really dont feel like it was consensual at all...Why did he leave me there like that?' she texted Mr Dillaway.

'So he f***ed you? I hope youre ok. This is pretty serious horrible stuff. You probably need to report this,' he replied.

READ MORE: Extraordinary moment Brittany Higgins snaps outside court after being asked about her alleged rapist Bruce Lehrmann - as she fires back with a brilliant question of her own Advertisement

At last year's criminal trial of Mr Lehrmann - which was abandoned because of juror misconduct - Mr Dillaway told the ACT Supreme Court that Ms Higgins was a 'broken, shattered person'.

'It was 'like a light had turned off in her,' he said.

'I just remember her crying and really breaking down and I just had her in my arms and she was very much what I would say would be a broken person.'

He tried to persuade her to go to the police but said she told him she 'didn't want a soul to know' and feared losing her 'dream job' in the defence minister's office.

'She did not want it to become, I guess, what it has now - where she is front and centre in the media,' Mr Dillaway - who is now in a new relationship - told the court.

Mr Dillaway said he just wanted to give her support and try to get her help, and reached out to the office of then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

'I said, "Let me discreetly go speak to someone in the Prime Ministers Office because surely this can move things along, or surely this will get you the help you need",' he told the court.

Eleven days after the alleged rape, Mr Dillaway said he contacted PMO staffer Julian Leembruggen with Ms Higgins' permission to try to get the PM's support.

But in court this week, Ms Higgins added: 'As much as I trusted and really adored Ben, he was still a senior media adviser to a Liberal cabinet minister.

'I didnt entirely trust him that it wouldnt get back to one of his best friends [in the prime ministers office] ... so I didnt trust that all my thoughts and feelings werent going straight back to Liberal CHQ [campaign headquarters].'

Scott Morrison later denied being told about the allegations until a few days before they were broadcast by The Project in February 2021.

Friends say the relationship was already on the backburner by the time of the rape allegations but Ms Higgins said she was trying to resurrect the affair five weeks later.

'We were rekindling things,' Ms Higgins told the Federal Court, as she explained the reason for sending him the photographs of her in the white dress.

Ben Dillaway - who is a motocross champion in his spare time - tried to get support and help Brittany Higgins in the wake of the rape allegations.

Brittany Higgins is pictured leaving Federal Court during the defamation case against Network 10 and Lisa Wilkinson

READ MORE: Brittany Higgins just ripped the band aid off a $2.3million political controversy... and for Anthony Albanese the stakes could not be higher Brittany Higgins and her partner David Sharaz (right) leave court on Tuesday Advertisement

Ms Higgins - who is now engaged to former journalist David Sharaz - told the court she wore the dress again because it was her favourite and she wanted to 'reclaim' it.

She said: 'I took the photos of myself in the bathroom because I felt awkward that night... I was trying to be flirty, I guess.'

But in the wake of the Coalition's surprise election campaign victory in 2019, friends say the pair 'just drifted apart and went their separate ways'.

Later that year, Mr Dillaway rediscovered his religious beliefs and 'came back' to his faith. He regularly now posts Bible verses on his private social media accounts.

He is due to be called as a witness in the Lehrmann defamation trial at the Federal Court on Thursday - and on Wednesday he posted a Bible verse he felt was relevant.

'I grew up a Christian and while I've always believed in Jesus, I certainly haven't always lived that way,' the part-time motocross champion posted on Instagram.

'When I came back to my faith in 2019 and started to read the Bible, this was one of my favourite verses.

'As I'm forced to appear in the Federal Court tomorrow as a witness, it's a verse I've returned to.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Philippians 4:6 NIV.'
Outback Wrangler Matt Wright's helicopter company is being sued by the widow of crocodile egg collector Chris Wilson over the chopper crash which killed him.

Father-of-two Wilson, 34, died in February 2022 after he plunged into croc-infested swamps while dangling 30m below one of Wright's helicopters when it ran out of fuel and fell out the sky.

Now Wilson's wife Danielle, 34, has lodged a law suit in the Federal Court suing Wright's helicopter charter company Helibrook and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

She is seeking damages, interest, costs, interest on costs and 'such other order as the court sees fit', The Australian reports.

An investigation by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau found Wilson died when chopper pilot Seb Robinson unhooked Wilson's lifeline, sending him plunging 9m to his death, as the pilot fought for control of the aircraft.

Chris 'Willow' Wilson's heartbroken wife Danielle, 34, (pictured together) has lodged a law suit in the Federal Court suing Wright's Helibrook helicopter charter company and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority

An ATSB investigation found Matt Wright's Helibrook company had been allowed by CASA to fly helicopters with the daredevil egg collectors dangling below in mid-air as the aircraft flew high above the 10m-high tree canopy (pictured, Wright with wife Kaia and son Banjo)

The ATSB probe found it 'likely' the helicopter had not been refuelled as planned at a stopover minutes earlier and had run out of fuel, causing it to crash in remote west Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory while on an egg collecting mission.

Mr Robinson suffered life-changing spinal injuries in the crash and spent months recovering in hospital but survived the tragic accident.

The ATSB investigation also found traces of cocaine use in Mr Robinson's blood and that he had been partying until the early hours of the morning on the day before the crash.

But it also found fault with the safety procedures at Wright's Helibrook company which had put in place by CASA.

The firm had been allowed to fly helicopters with the daredevil egg collectors dangling below in mid-air as the aircraft flew high above the 10m-high tree canopy.

Regulations initially only allowed egg collectors to be 3m off the ground and vegetation, but that was interpreted by Helibrook and authorised by CASA to also mean 3m above the treetops if required.

'The ATSB found that Helibrook's CASA-approved safety management system was not being used to systematically identify and manage operational hazards,' the 113-page ATSB report found.

'As a result, the risks inherent in conducting human sling operations, such as carriage of the egg collector above a survivable fall height, were not adequately addressed.'

Father-of-two Chris Wilson, 34, (pictured) died in February 2022 after he plunged into croc-infested swamps while dangling 30m below one of Wright's helicopters when it ran out of fuel and fell out the sky

Police allege Wright flew to the site with two others and interfered with evidence at the crash site (pictured) in an attempt to pervert the course of justice

It alleged CASA had not carried out a single risk assessment of the egg collection operation in 15 years of working with Helibrook.

Father-of-two Wright, 44, is due to face Darwin Local Court on Thursday for a committal hearing over charges relating to him interfering with the air crash investigation.

Police allege Wright flew to the site with two others and interfered with evidence at the crash site in an attempt to pervert the course of justice

He faces up to 15 years in jail on charges of attempting to pervert the course of justice, destroying evidence, fabricating evidence, unlawfully entering a building, unlawfully entering a dwelling, making a false declaration and interfering with witnesses in a criminal investigation or court process by making threats/reprisals.

A spokesman for Matt Wright declined to comment about the new legal action by Ms Wilson.
A suspended police chief, who is facing a 'stolen valour' probe, worked in a pub when he said he was serving in the Royal Navy, according to court records.

Nick Adderley, 57, claimed that he had served for a decade before joining the police force in 1992.

But court documents reported in The Sun show that held a licence to sell alcohol at the Hooton Arms pub in Wirral, Merseyside, from 1989 to 1990.

He served in the Navy for two years, worked as a lorry driver and sold houses for six years as a civilian, according to contemporaries.

Adderley - who earns 165,000-a-year - was suspended as Chief Constable of Northamptonshire Police in October after he wore a Falklands War medal - despite being only 15 years old at the time of the conflict.

A complaint was received from a member of the public, before a mandatory referral of the complaint was made to the Independent Office For Police Conduct who are now looking into the allegations.

Video footage has revealed how the police boss flaunted the South Atlantic Medal, which was awarded to British military personnel who served in the 1982 war between Britain and Argentina.

Nick Adderley, 57, claimed that he had served for a decade before joining the police force in 1992 but documents found he held a licence to sell alcohol at a pub from 1989 to 1990

The married father-of-two, who was among the frontrunners to take on the Met before Sir Mark Rowley became commissioner in 2022, is accused of wearing it at a string of events including the Police Bravery Awards in July.

Chief Constable Adderley previously said he was 'very proud of his Cadet, Royal Navy and Police Service', adding he also wears medals awarded to his brothers with no further clarification.

'I wear all my medals with pride and have always worn the two medals my brothers gave me to wear when one became critically ill and one emigrated, alongside my own.

'Having been made aware of this complaint, which has a private family impact upon me personally, I immediately took advice last week regarding the protocol and have changed the side of my chest on which these medals are worn.

'I look forward to providing the IOPC with a fulsome response at the earliest opportunity and I fully appreciate that they have a job to do.'

Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Stephen Mold told BBC Radio Northampton: 'This is uncertainty we could do without. I am hoping we got something sooner rather than later.'

Mold previously said he believed it was in the public interest, in the interest of the force, and of the Chief Constable himself that Adderley was suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.

He said: 'Allegations of misconduct must always be fully, independently investigated so that the public have confidence in the integrity of the police service and the processes that independently hold policing to account.

'That independent investigation must now be allowed to take its course and we will not be commenting further on matters related to the investigation.

'My focus will be on ensuring that Northamptonshire receives the best possible policing service and I know that the officers and staff of Northamptonshire Police will continue to focus, as they do every day, on their mission to constantly improve the way they tackle crime, keep people safe and serve the communities and neighbourhoods of this county.'

The suspension will be kept under regular review as the investigation progresses.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct said Nick Adderley will be interviewed and is under investigation for potential offences of misconduct in public office and fraud.

Adderley would have only been 15-years-old at the time of the conflict with Argentina in 1982

Constable Adderley pinned the 1982 campaign medal to his chest  despite not joining the Royal Navy until two years later

An IOPC spokesperson previously said: 'The Independent Office for Police Conduct is criminally investigating the Chief Constable of Northamptonshire over allegations that he has potentially misrepresented his military service, both in public and in communications with the police, fire and crime commissioner.

'We have advised the chief constable in a criminal letter that we are examining possible offences of misconduct in public office and fraud by false representation.

'After reviewing information gathered so far as part of our investigation, we have also served a gross misconduct notice on the chief constable for potential breaches of police professional standards relating to honesty and integrity, orders and instructions and conduct.

'The serving of such a notice and letter does not mean that any proceedings will necessarily follow.'

'Stolen Valour' is the term commonly applied to the act of wearing military medals or decorations that have not been earned with the intent to deceive.

It is not an offence in the UK for individuals to wear medals or decorations that they were not awarded - but it is an offence to wear a military medal without permission, according to the UK Parliament's briefing on Stolen Valour.
A teenage boy was stabbed to death last night in a horror attack near a busy London train station.

The 17-year-old was attacked by a knifeman in Sutton high street at around 7pm.

Met Police officers and London Ambulance Service (LAS) paramedics rushed to the teen's side and battled to save his life but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

No arrests have been made and police have launched an urgent manhunt for the attacker.

The boy's next of kin are yet to be informed.

A police officer stands guard behind a cordon on Sutton high street after a teenage boy, 17, was stabbed to death

Officers gather near the scene near Sutton station which was closed with trains not expected to be running until 5am this morning

A large police presence could be seen as officers stand guard at the scene. Scotland Yard has launched a manhunt for the attacker

A Scotland Yard police spokesperson said: 'Police and LAS were called to Sutton High Street at about 7.08pm on Tuesday December 5, following reports that a teenager had been stabbed.

'On arrival officers found a 17-year-old male suffering with stab wounds.

'He was treated at the scene but sadly died as a result of his injuries.

'Enquiries are ongoing to trace his next of kin. No arrests have been made.'

The area was sealed off and Sutton station remains closed with trains not expected to run until 5am this morning.

The attack came on the same night a woman, 42, was shot dead and two others were rushed to hospital with gunshot wounds in Hackney.

A teenage boy, 16, and 20-year-old man were also rushed to a major trauma centre following the attack where their conditions are being assessed.
Public schools in Portland now have to take students' gender identity and race into account before disciplining them as part of a new collective bargaining agreement that ended a month-long strike.

Portland Association of Teachers union called off industrial action after securing a 13.75 percent raise for educators over the next three years last week.

The agreement has made waves in the fine print, however, as it appears students will now have race and gender identity taken into account when it comes to punishing them.

Officials 'must take into consideration the impact of issues related to the student's trauma, race, gender identity/presentation, sexual orientation, disability, social-emotional learning, and restorative justice as appropriate for the student,' according to the agreement.

Also, the superintendent of schools is now required to review 'disciplinary disparities apparent by race, gender, LGBTQ, plus ID, special education status' each year.

Public schools in Portland now have to take students' gender identity and race into account before disciplining them as part of a new collective bargaining agreement that ended a month-long strike

Rebeccah Heinrichs, a mom of five, slammed the policy on Fox News.

'I mean, you do not tell a child that because of his or her skin color that they're going to get a lesser punishment because there's something about that that's driving them to skip school or something,' she said.

'It really kind of takes away the dignity of the child and the choice in autonomy.'

The deal, which equates to a rise of between $6,900 and $13,400 per teacher, as the 'largest three-year cost-of-living pay increase' ever seen by school staff in Oregon's biggest city.

Students returned to class on November 26 with a two-hour delay after more than three weeks missed, or 11 school days.

Teachers in the region were paid anywhere between $50,020 and $97,333 before the raise was agreed, according to Portland Public Schools, meaning the mass increase will cost a conservative minimum of $28 million.

It comes after strike action by more than 4,000 teachers impacted 45,000 students across 81 institutions in one of the largest school districts in the Pacific Northwest.

The deal, which equates to a rise of between $6,900 and $13,400 per teacher, as the 'largest three-year cost-of-living pay increase' ever seen by school staff in Oregon 's biggest city

The agreement has made waves in the fine print, however, as it appears students will now have race and gender identity taken into account when it comes to punishing them

Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) union called off their pickets after securing what it described as the 'largest three-year cost-of-living pay increase' ever seen by teachers in Oregon 's biggest city. (Pictured: teachers demonstrating on the first day of strikes Nov 1)

Strike action by more than 4,000 teachers has impacted 45,000 students across 81 schools over the past month, in one of the largest school districts in the Pacific Northwest

Striking teachers marched across the Burnside Bridge in Portland, Oregon, on Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023

Educators marched out of classrooms on November 1 requesting a 23 percent increase over the next three years - while the district countered with a 10.9 percent hike instead.

The 13.75 percent increase brokered will be implemented over the next three years - with teachers getting a 6.25 percent rise in the first year, followed by 4.5 percent and 3 percent raises in subsequent years.

The union also secured added benefits like a $1,500 stipend for bilingual teachers and a handful of days given each year for planning lessons.

Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) described the deal as a 'watershed moment' and 'major victory' for teachers and students.

'Together with Portland families and our community, we were able to secure major victories on the key issues most important to students, educators, and our schools,' the group said.

Educators marched out of classrooms on November 1 requesting a 23 percent increase over the next three years, while the district countered with a 10.9 percent hike instead. They secured 13.75 percent over three years in a deal brokered Sunday

Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) described the new deal as a 'watershed moment' and 'major victory' for teachers and student

'This contract is a watershed moment for Portland students, families, and educators. Educators have secured improvements on all our key issues.

'These changes will make a huge difference on priorities like mental health supports for students, educator workload relief, and safe and welcoming school environments.

'Educators walked picket lines alongside families, students, and allies - and because of that, our schools are getting the added investment they need.'
A Belgian city has cancelled its plans for a black female Santa Claus to hand out presents to children after critics labelled the event as 'woker than woke'.

Queen Nikkolah, an African alternative to the Belgian Santa Claus - Sinterklaas - was also set to be draped in the colours of a Palestinian flag.

The character, dreamt up by artist Laura Nsengiyumva who called for Belgium to be liberated from 'colonial ideology', was set to visit the town hall until the mayor of Ghent caved into pressure to cancel the event.

'There is nothing wrong with Sinterklaas, as we know him,' Mathias de Clercq said. 'We shouldn't try to turn him into something else.'

The character of Queen Nikkolah was created to provide children with revised versions of traditional Christmas tales about Sinterklaas.

Queen Nikkolah was dreamt up by artist Laura Nsengiyumva (pictured as Queen Nikkolah) who called for Belgium to be liberated from 'colonial ideology'

The mayor of Ghent (pictured)caved into pressure to cancel the event after critics said it was 'woker than woke'.

'People see Queen Nikkolah as a threat,' said Ms Nsengiyumva, who created the character in 2017.

'But if I didn't like this tradition, I wouldn't have picked it up. It's also a desire to be part of it.'

She added: 'It came from a need from the community, not only people of colour, but I think also white allies who needed an alternative to deconstruct the colonial myth around Sinterklaas.

'I dream of a Belgium liberated from colonial ideology and a society without discrimination.'

Members of the right-wing New Flemish Alliance described the event as 'woker than woke'.

Nadia Sminate, a vice-chairman of the Flemish parliament, added: 'Queen Nikkolah's initiative is actually saying that entire generations of Flemish people are racists.'

More than 300 children were planning to attend the alternative Christmas event, where Queen Nikkolah was going to dress up in the colours of the Palestinian flag to raise awareness of the conflict in Gaza between Hamas and Israel.

St Nicholas Day is celebrated on December 6 in Belgium and the Netherlands, with Sinterklaas usually accompanied by Zwarte Piet (pictured)  or Black Pete - a black-faced boy with large, painted on red lips

St Nicholas Day is celebrated on December 6 in Belgium and the Netherlands, with Sinterklaas usually accompanied by Zwarte Piet  or Black Pete - a black-faced boy with large, painted on red lips.

Last month, protesters called for a more inclusive celebration without stereotypes in the Belgian city of Kortrijk. It was the first demonstration against Zwarte Piet in Belgium.

The United Nations' high commission for human rights raised concerns over the Dutch custom with the 2013 government.

It suggested there was 'growing opposition to the racial profiling of Black Pete within Dutch society'.

Plans for an investigation into whether the character was racial stereotype were later dropped.
Child, three, has fallen up to 14m out of window

A three-year-old has been rushed to hospital in a critical condition after falling more than 10 metres out of a third-storey window.

Paramedics responded to reports of the boy having fallen from a window in an apartment building on Refractory Court in Holroyd at 11am on Wednesday.

A three-year-old child has been rushed to hospital in a serious condition after falling up to 14 metres from a window in Holroyd, West Sydney, at 11am on Wednesday

Multiple units responded to the incident and treated the boy's head and torso at the scene before rushing him to Westmead Children's Hospital in a serious condition

Multiple emergency vehicles responded and on arrival found that he had fallen an estimated 12-to-14 metres and landed on an outdoor timber setting.

Paramedics tended to his head and torso at the scene before rushing the boy to Westmead Children's Hospital in critical condition with head and femur injuries.

Officers from Cumberland Police Area Command have commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident but are not treating it as suspicious.

More to come.
An end-of-year school trip ended in a horrific smash between a bus and a truck that sent 11 people to hospital.

Students from Calamvale Community College in Brisbane's west were heading to Gold Coast theme park Wet'n'Wild when their bus, which was stopped on the side of the road, was struck by a truck on the M1 in Beenleigh at about 9.35am on Wednesday.

Police said the dump truck with a trailer 'was travelling at speed' and hit the rear of the bus.

Ten students and a teacher were rushed to hospital with injuries ranging from fractures, to facial, leg and chest injuries, to bruising.

The bus was taking students to an end-of-year trip to a Gold Coast theme park was hit from behind

Parent Chris Blume told the Courier Mail his daughter's best friend was badly injured in the crash and would need surgery overnight.

'A couple of the parents are shocked,' he said.

'The teachers were also lending out phones to students who didn't have a phone to let the kids' parents know they were safe.

'The teachers did a good job to ease the stress for the parents.'

Queensland Ambulance Senior Operations Supervisor Scott Harris said there were 60 people on board the bus, with seven ambulances responding to the serious crash.

He described most of the injuries to the 14 to 16-year-old students as 'fairly moderate' including 'fractures and abrasions'.

The bus driver and one of the students were taken to the Gold Coast hospital with the driver later being released.

One student went up to Queensland Children's hospital while the remainder of the crash victims went to Logan hospital.

A text message went out to parents with children in years 8 and 9 shortly after the crash.

Some parents went to the crash scene to pick up their children.

The rest got on one of the nine other buses transporting students to the excursion, which were all turned around to go back to school after the accident.

With two lanes closed during the morning the accident caused major traffic delays until the afternoon.

Students were left waiting at the side of the road at the crash site until either picked up by parents or put on another bus back to the school

Police said the bus was hit by a dump truck and trailter travelling at speed along the M1 motorway

A Department of Education spokesperson said the school was offering support to the families.

'The department commends the selfless actions of the witnesses and school staff who offered immediate assistance and support to those involved in the incident,' the spokesperson said.

'Support is available at the school to anyone that may require it, including a Guidance Officer and other support staff.

'The school is in contact with the affected families and will continue to monitor the students' wellbeing.'

Police are investigating what caused the crash with the forensic crash unit attending the scene.

Anyone with information or dashcam footage is asked to contact police.
Venezuela's president on Tuesday published a new map showing two thirds of neighboring Guyana 'reclaimed' by Caracas - as fears rose that Nicolas Maduro could launch an invasion.

Tensions were escalating between the two countries today as Caracas proposed a bill to create a Venezuelan province in a disputed oil-rich region and ordered the state-owned energy companies to 'immediately' begin exploration in the area.

Guyanese President Irfaan Ali called Maduro's statements a 'direct threat' against his country, and rejected the measures announced by his counterpart, who counts Iran, China and Russia among his allies.

Venezuela has claimed Guyana's Essequibo region for over 100 years, ever since the border of the present-day country was drawn up, in 1899.

But on Sunday, with his own popularity falling in the face of a newly-unified opposition, Maduro organized a 'referendum' on whether to pursue Venezuela's claim to the territory.

Voters were asked if they agreed with creating a Venezuelan state in the Essequibo region, providing its population with Venezuelan citizenship, and 'incorporating that state into the map of Venezuelan territory.'

The Maduro-controlled Venezuelan National Electoral Council said voters chose 'yes' more than 95 percent of the time on each of five questions on the ballot, and on Tuesday Maduro published his new map.

Nicolas Maduro, the president of Venezuela, is seen on Tuesday holding up his new map of the region - showing Guyana Essequibo, a region which is the size of Florida, under Venezuelan control

Alexis Rodriguez Cabello, left, is seen applauding as Maduro on Tuesday sent him to Tumeremo to run the Essequibo operation from the jungle border town

He has appointed a general, Alexis Rodriguez Cabello, as head of the region and on Tuesday dispatched him to the town of Tumeremo, a remote mining town in the jungle, 120 miles from the border.

Essequibo, about the size of Florida, is rich in minerals and accounts for two thirds of the territory of Guyana - an English speaking nation, which gained its independence from Britain in 1966. Guyana is the only English-speaking country in South America.

Venezuela protested an oil tender announced by Guyana in September, arguing that the offshore areas are subject to dispute and the companies awarded the fields will not have the rights to explore them.

Guyana has denounced Sunday's referendum as pretext to annex the land: in the days running up to it, the Venezuelan defense minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez, known for his ties to his counterparts in Russia and Iran, posted a video of Venezuela troops on parade, waving flags saying 'Guyana Esequiba', colored in the Venezuelan flag.

President Irfaan Ali called the move by Maduro 'reckless' and said his country plans to alert both regional and world leaders of Maduro's attempt to disrupt the peace in the hemisphere.

'It is unfortunate that President Maduro would choose the road of defying an international court order. This speaks volumes about the way in which President Maduro prefers to operate and also points to the fact that he's unconcerned about the peace and security of this region,' he told The Miami Herald.

'The order of the [U.N. court] made it very clear that Venezuela cannot act or take any action that would disrupt the status quo and the status quo is that Guyana exercises governance and control of Essequibo,' he said.

He added that he is seeking the support of the United Nations Security Council, the United States, the Caribbean Community, the Organization of American States and other countries to ensure Guyana's territory is 'not violated.'

'We once again call on Venezuela to retract from this reckless, adventurous move and to allow international law and the ruling of the [U.N. court] to guide our action,' Ali added.

Venezuela's defense minister tweeted video of the army preparing for battle, waving flags saying 'Guyana Esequiba', colored in the Venezuelan flag

El pueblo y su #FANB estan movilizados, decididos e imperturbables a recuperar nuestra Guayana Esequiba, nos mueve el amor infinito a la patria y a cada milimetro del sagrado territorio venezolano, el cual defenderemos por todas las vias y por todos los medios que esten a nuestro pic.twitter.com/B60slT8xSs  Vladimir Padrino L. (@vladimirpadrino) November 29, 2023

A 'Guyana Esequiba' sign, in the colors of the Venezuelan flag

Venezuela on Tuesday published this new map, showing Essequibo under Venezuelan control

Guyana has appealed to the International Court of Justice, the United Nations' top court, which on Friday ordered Venezuela not to take any action to change the status quo until the panel can rule on the two countries' competing claims. Any decision could take years.

Meanwhile, Guyana is nervously eyeing its giant neighbor to the north.

Venezuela's military, backed by Russia, Iran and Cuba, massively outnumbers tiny Guyana's: the Venezuelan military counts 123,000 active personnel versus only 3,400 for Guyana, according to an analysis in Brazil's Folha de Sao Paulo newspaper.

Guyana is also dwarfed by Venezuela in weaponry, with Venezuela having 514 armored vehicles compared to only six owned by Guyana.

But military analysts point out that decades of mismanagement by the struggling Socialist regime have significantly weakened Venezuela's capacity.

Igor Gielow, a military expert cited by the newspaper, said that only around half of the fleet of 24 Russianbuilt Sukhoi Su30 fighter jets are considered fit to fly.

'But even as a paper tiger, Venezuela is a colossus compared to Guyana,' said Gielow.

King Charles is seen with the president of Guyana, Irfaan Ali (left) and the vice president, Bharrat Jagdeo, at the COP28 climate change summit in Dubai last week

He said the logistics of an invasion would be complicated.

'A good part of the 800kilometerlong border between Venezuela and Essequibo consists of dense jungle, which is impenetrable save for small units,' he said, adding that it was impossible to use armored vehicles in the swampy tropical terrain.

'The most logical possibility for dictator Nicolas Maduro is a combination of airborne attack against Essequibo's few urban centers and an amphibious landing on the Caribbean,' he said.

Such an attack would draw a strong international response, with the lead likely played by Brazil, which borders both Venezuela and Guyana and whose military is significantly larger and more professional than either country's.

At the end of November, Brazil's defense ministry said it 'has intensified defensive actions' along its northern border.

'The Ministry of Defense has been monitoring the situation. Defensive actions have been intensified in the northern border region of the country, promoting a greater military presence,' it said in a statement.
Former President Donald Trump refused in a prime time town hall to rule out abusing power to go after his critics  saying he wouldn't do it 'except for Day One'  when given multiple opportunities to forswear plans for vengeance or a power grab.

Trump made the extraordinary statements after Fox News host Sean Hannity questioned him directly on some of the worst charges from his critics  that he planned to 'abuse power' or use the justice system to take down his political rivals, and pointing out that some want to call him 'a dictator.'

'To be clear, do you in any way have any plans whatsoever if reelected president to abuse power, to break the law to use the government to go after people,' Hannity asked him.

'You mean like theyre using right now?' Trump responded, without answering the question directly.

'Except for Day One,' former President Donald Trump said when Fox News host Sean Hannity asked him to rule out abusing power

'So in the history of our country? What's happened to us again, has never happened before. Over nonsense over nothing made up charges,' Trump said, returning to a refrain about being indicted more times (four) than infamous Chicago mobster Al Capone.

After Trump pivoted to other subjects in the sit-down interview, Hannity came back to the topic, having earlier played a famous Trump clip telling supporters 'I am your retribution.'

'You are promising America tonight you would never abuse power as retribution?' Hannity asked the former president, who is leading President Joe Biden in a series of polls.

'Except for Day One,' Trump answered.

'Meaning?' Hannity asked him.

'I want to close the border and I want to drill, drill, drill.'

'That's not retribution,' Hannity pointed out.

Then Trump tried to get a laugh out of the line.

'He says: You're not going to be a dictator. I said "no, no, no  other than Day One. We're closing the border. And we're drilling, drilling, drilling. After that I'm not a dictator.'

A Biden-Harris account tweeted out the clip, appending the line, 'Trump: I will be a dictator on day one.'

Trump didn't respond directly when Hannity asked him to promise 'you would never abuse power'

Trump made the comment to Hannity in a televised town hall that aired in prime time. He is skipping Wednesday's GOP presidential debate in Alabama

The Biden campaign made hay out of Trump's comments about 'Day One'

Hannity queried Trump about his plans after after playing a clip of former House Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) called the threat of a Trump dictatorship 'a very real threat.'

Cheney, who served on the House January 6 committee and who is promoting a new book, said Monday that the 2024 election might 'be the last election that you ever get to vote in' if Trump wins.

Hannity himself gave a boost to some of the claims that Trump and his GOP allies have been making about his prosecution, putting up a graphic about a 'politicized and weaponized' Justice Department.

Trump is facing 91 counts in four criminal indictments, with his D.C. trial on his election overturn effort set to begin March 4, a day before Super Tuesday.

The Biden-Harris campaign pounced on the comment with a statement from Campaign Manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez.

'Donald Trump has been telling us exactly what he will do if hes reelected and tonight he said he will be a dictator on day one. Americans should believe him,' she said.

Hannity also asked him about Biden's comment Tuesday that 'if Trump wasn't running, I'm not sure I'd be running.'

'Somebody gave him a talking point,' Trump said, dismissing the comment.

Both Trump and Hannity accused Biden of suffering cognitive decline.

Trump also appeared to predict a Chinese invasion of Taiwan.

He did so after repeating his claim that Russian President Vladimir Putin would not have invaded Ukraine if he were still president.

'I used to speak to Putin about it. It was the apple of his eye  Ukraine,' Trump said.

'I said dont do it,' Trump claimed, suggesting a threat.

He said Putin 'believed me 10 per cent,' which was enough to deter him. Trump held multiple meetings with Putin following Russia's seizure of Crimea in 2014, but before Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Then he turned to Chinese President Xi Jinping, saying they 'had the same exact conversation.'

'Hes looking at Taiwan very strongly. It would have never happened. And again for four years, it didn't happen, and it was never going to happen. It would have never happened ... And now its very possibly going to happen, which would be a shame,' he said.

Trump said he would be blitzing Iow in the weeks before the caucuses

Trump went after Biden when Hannity teed up a question about Biden 'struggling cognitively.' He also played a clip with awkward pauses in Biden remarks.

'He wasn't able to lift the beach chair, which is meant for children to lift,' said Trump. 'And mentally, I would say he's possibly equally as bad and maybe worse. I don't know. I will say this: He's got vicious people surrounding him around that beautiful Oval Office.'

Trump sat with Hannity in Davenport, Iowa, promising 'We'll be blitzing' during the last few weeks before the Iowa Caucuses.

'Were not taking any chances. We dont want to take any chances,' Trump said.

It came days after Hannity hosted a debate between Trump's primary rival, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, and California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D).

'Considering that he didn't have the facts, I thought he did well,' Trump said of Hannity.

He took a few shots at DeSantis, calling him 'deSanctimonious.'

He tried to stir the pot by saying Vice President Kamala Harris would be 'the one, the odds to beat' in the event Biden ended his campaign.

'They say if they didn't give it to her, the African American vote, the black vote, would not go to them,' Trump said.

The interview came 24 hours before the fourth Republican presidential debate in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Trump is skipping it, although DeSantis and other rivals said he should attend.

Trump is instead holding a fundraiser in Miami.

Trump, 77, also said he doesn't think Biden, 81, will make it to 2024.

'I personally don't think he makes it, okay?' Trump told Hannity.

Trump brought up Biden's 2018 comment that 'I could take him behind the gym,' commenting on giving Trump a beating over his infamous 'Access Hollywood' comments about grabbing women by the genitals.

'I think he's in bad shape physically. Do you remember when he said, I'd like to take him behind the barn?' Trump said, substituting barn for gym.

'He could say that and everyone thought it was so cute. If I ever said they'd say, "He's a dictator!"' Trump complained.
The first photos have emerged of a Boston newlywed who was killed by a shark while paddle boarding in the Bahamas.

Lauren Erickson Van Wart, 44, was off the coast of the five-star Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort with a male relative on Monday morning when she was fatally mauled by the predator.

A lifeguard at the luxury adults-only couples resort spotted the woman in distress and rushed to help. They attempted CPR, but the attack had severely injured the woman's right hip and upper limb, with attempts to revive her unsuccessful.

People enjoying the nearby beach are said to have heard screams as the horror unfolded, vacationer Debra DeWeese told DailyMail.com.

Grim photos and video shared afterwards showed the victim's covered body being brought back to the beach on a gurney, before being loaded into an ambulance.

Lauren Erickson Van Wart, 44, was killed on Monday by a shark while paddle boarding in the Bahamas

The 44 year-old Boston newlywed's paddle board is pictured floating in the Bahamas on Monday, shortly after she was fatally-mauled by a shark the day after her wedding

Mortuary services personnel transport Van Wart's body near Sandals Royal Bahamian resort

The newlywed's body is loaded into a van by local police after Monday's tragedy

A woman from Boston died in the Bahamas on Monday, after she was attacked by a shark while paddle boarding about three-quarters of a mile away from the shore with a family member. https://t.co/PhJW5KkDr7 pic.twitter.com/J0OlNgtKRc  CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) December 4, 2023

Rob Waldron, CEO of Curriculum Associates - where Van Wart worked as a math editor - paid tribute to her dedication and commitment to students.

'Our team is heartbroken and grieving the loss of a dear and trusted colleague and friend,' he said.

'Lauren was a beloved member of our math editorial team, and she infused her deep dedication to students and educators into every material she touched. Her commitment to excellence and outstanding work was driven by a higher purpose, focused on improving learning outcomes for all.

'Our Curriculum Associates community is mourning this tragedy and extends our deepest love and support to Lauren's wonderful husband and all of her family.'

Sergeant Desiree Ferguson with Royal Bahamian Police told reporters: 'Shortly after 11:15 a.m. police were notified that a female visitor from Boston, Massachusetts, USA was attacked by a shark.

'According to our initial reports, the female along, with a male relative were paddle boarding just at the rear of a resort in Western New Providence, some 3/4 miles out from the shoreline when she was bitten by the shark.

'A lifeguard on duty who saw what was happening went out in a rescue boat, retrieved the victim, along with the male relative and brought them to safety CPR was administered to the victim.

'However she suffered serious injuries to the right side of her body, including the right hip region and also her right upper limb.

'Emergency Medical Services responded to this scene they thoroughly assessed the victim and they declared that she show she showed no vital signs of life.'

She added that it took a couple of hours to pull the woman in, before they took a wheelchair out to gather the man believed to be her husband.

'I can't imagine what the husband is going through,' DeWeese - who was on a day pass from a cruise - added in a Facebook post.

Emergency services are seen gathered on a pier off the Sandals resort on Monday after the fatal shark mauling

Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort is a five-star complex, where rooms cost around $1,500-a-night in peak season

DeWeese noted that 'the staff and some guests are a bit traumatized.'

A spokesman for Sandals said: 'We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of a guest while on a paddle boarding activity nearly a mile from the shore.

'We wish to express our heartfelt condolences to the guest's family and loved ones.

'We remain in close contact with them and are providing all support possible during this difficult time.'

It was not immediately clear what type of shark attacked the woman, although tiger sharks and bull sharks are known to live off the coast of the Bahamas.

Gavin Naylor, program director of the International Shark Attack File in Florida, said in an interview that there have been several shark-related fatalities reported in the Bahamas in the past five years.

He noted that the Bahamas has a 'huge' tourist population, adding that there are a lot of people in the water and a lot of visitors who want to view sharks from a fishing boat or dive with them.

'So the sharks get acclimated, and the animals are a little bit less cautious than they otherwise might be,' he said.

Van Wart was attacked less than a mile off the western end of New Providence island, where the capital, Nassau, is located

She was paddle boarding with a man - believed to be her husband - who was not injured, according to Police Sgt. Desiree Ferguson

Between 30 to 40 shark species live around the Bahamas, although the Caribbean reef shark, the bull shark, the tiger shark and the black tip shark have the highest bite frequency, Naylor said.

'Usually, it's an accidental bite. They think it's something else,' he said.

'Once in a while, they'll actually single out people, and it's very intentional.'

Fatal shark attacks are rare, with only an average of five to six reported worldwide a year, most of them occurring in Australia, Naylor said.

Last year, there were a total of 57 unprovoked bites around the globe, the majority of them in the U.S., according to the International Shark Attack File.

Debra DeWeese, a woman visiting the resort who posted photos from the scene afterwards, told DailyMail.com that her fellow vacationers could hear the woman's screams all the way from land

Police said a lifeguard rescued both people with a boat upon seeing what was happening, but the woman suffered serious injuries to the right side of her body and was declared dead at the scene despite CPR efforts

At least 33 confirmed unprovoked shark attacks have been reported in the Bahamas since 1580, with the island ranking ninth worldwide, according to the file.

The Nassau Guardian newspaper reported that authorities in the Bahamas are still searching for a German woman who went missing late last month after she was apparently attacked while diving.

Last year, a shark killed a U.S. cruise ship passenger from Pennsylvania who was snorkeling in the northern Bahamas near Green Cay.

Most shark attacks in the Caribbean occur in the Bahamas, although a rare shark attack was reported in the French Caribbean territory of St. Martin three years ago.
Hunter Biden received a staggering $4.9 million from his 'sugar brother' Kevin Morris, an IRS whistleblower has claimed.

Lawyer Kevin Morris allegedly loaned the president's son millions of dollars after the pair met at a campaign fundraiser in December 2019.

IRS agent Joseph Ziegler declared the shocking figure with additional documentation on Tuesday with the House Ways & Means Committee as Hunter faces two charges of tax evasion.

Morris, a Hollywood lawyer who made a fortune from a South Park TV deal, was dubbed Hunter's 'sugar brother' after he reportedly paid off up to $2.8 million of the First Son's tax bill in an attempt to placate prosecutors.

The new figures alleged by Ziegler are a substantial increase on previous reports.

Hunter Biden received a staggering $4.9 million from his 'sugar brother' Kevin Morris, an IRS whistleblower has claimed

In July Hunter visited Morris at his Pacific Palisades home where the lawyer was photographed appearing to smoke from a bong

Morris (pictured), a Hollywood lawyer who made a fortune from a South Park TV deal, has been dubbed Hunter's 'sugar brother'

It comes as House Republicans near an expected vote to authorize an impeachment inquiry into President Biden for his alleged role in Hunter's foreign dealings.

Ziegler, who investigated Hunter's taxes for five years before he was removed from the case this year, provided legislators with further documents including an email on Tuesday dating to February 2020.

The communication reportedly reveals how less than two months after they met, Morris was contacting accountants on Hunter's behalf and warning them to work quickly to avoid 'considerable risk personally and politically.'

Ziegler claimed Hunter's income from Morris, at least some of it described as loans, reflected Hunter's alleged practice of trying to avoid paying taxes on other income by describing it as loans.

'Hunter appeared to follow a pattern of attempting to avoid paying taxes on relevant income. This first started with Hunter not reporting the [Ukrainian gas company] Burisma income in 2014 and allegedly falsely claiming that it was a loan to him,' Ziegler said in his statement.

'He, again, tried to claim the millions in [Chinese] income earned from Hudson West III was a loan to him, which was refuted by the evidence and was not allowed by his tax accountants' he explained.

Adding: 'This continued into 2020, 2021 and 2022, in which Hunter received approximately $4.9 million in payments for personal expenses, again in the form of a loan and gift from Democratic Donor Kevin Patrick Morris.'

A Los Angeles grand jury is reportedly considering tax charges against Hunter, the New York Post reported.

IRS agent Joseph Ziegler declared the shocking figure with additional documentation on Tuesday with the House Ways & Means Committee

Morris pictured alongside celebrity friends actor Courtney Cox and songwriter Johnny McDaid

In July Hunter visited Morris, who also bought several pieces of Hunters art, which has prices up to $500,000, at his Pacific Palisades home where the lawyer was photographed appearing to smoke from a bong.

While Hunter was at the house, Morris was snapped on a balcony in plain view of the public street appearing to huff from a white bong, in photos exclusively obtained by DailyMail.com.

It is not clear what substance was in Morris's bong, and recreational marijuana use is legal in California.

Bidens son currently faces three felony charges that carry a maximum combined 25 years incarceration and $250,000 fine.

The first count is for lying on a 2018 gun purchase form that he was not an illicit drug user, and has a top sentence of 10 years. The second count is for lying to the gun store about it, which could net him up to five years. The third is for possessing the firearm while being an addict, which could land him another 10 years.

Despite hiring top lawyers, they may have a tough time fighting the facts of the case.

In Hunters 2021 memoir, Beautiful Things, he admitted to his continued 'full-blown addiction' to crack cocaine in 2018  the period he bought the Colt Cobra 38SPL revolver.

The federally required Firearm Transaction Record for the purchase asks: 'Are you an unlawful user of, or addicted to, marijuana or any depressant, stimulant, narcotic drug, or any other controlled substance?'

Hunter ticked the box for no on the form, obtained by DailyMail.com.

The charges against him were set to be held over as part of a plea deal Hunter struck with prosecutors, in which he would admit to tax crimes for deliberately failing to file and pay his tax bill on millions of dollars of income.

But under scrutiny from a federal judge in July, the plea deal spectacularly fell apart in the courtroom over a controversial clause that would give him blanket immunity for other offenses.

Abbe Lowell, Hunters hotshot DC lawyer, has suggested that he may challenge the charges on constitutional grounds related to the second amendment.
Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said Tuesday night that he'd flown twice on pedophile Jeffrey Epstein's private jet and that his ex-wife was friendly with his infamous madam Ghislaine Maxwell.

Kennedy, a prominent anti-vaxxer, first announced a White House run in April - saying then that he planned to challenge President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination. In September, he announced plans to run as an independent instead.

Speaking to Jesse Watters on Tuesday, he admitted his allegedly brief connections to Epstein, a pedophile with extraordinary power and influence that has connected him to politicians in both parties, including former presidents Bill Clinton and Donald Trump.

Watters was discussing testimony that day in Washington from FBI Director Christopher Wray, who took questions about Epstein and segued into asking Kennedy if he'd ever been on Epstein's jet.

'I was on Jeffrey Epstein's jet two times,' he replied, adding that his ex-wife - the late Mary Richardson Kennedy, who died by suicide in 2012 - had 'some kind of relationship with Ghislaine Maxwell.'

Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said Tuesday night that he'd flown twice on pedophile Jeffrey Epstein's private jet and that his ex-wife was friendly with his infamous madam Ghislaine Maxwell

'I was on it in 1993, and I was on it in and I went to Florida with my wife and two children to visit my mom over Easter [inaudible],' he said.

Kennedy also claimed, with little explanation, that at one point he'd gone 'fossil hunting' in South Dakota with the notorious pedophile.

'And my wife had some kind of relationship with Ghislaine Maxwell and they offered us a ride to Palm Beach. I went then, and another occasion, I flew again with my family with, I think, four of my children.'

He claims that he's been 'very open' about this from the beginning of his campaign and said this was long before Epstein became known for his multitude of sex crimes.

'It was before anybody knew about Jeffrey Epstein's, you know, nefarious issues. And I agree with you that all of this information should be released.'

He continued to try and talk tough about the records regarding Epstein's connections to power.

'We should get real answers on what happened to Jeffrey Epstein and any of the high-level political people that he was involved with. All of that should be open to the public.'

When asked about the relationship between his ex-wife - who hanged herself in her New York home over a decade ago - a spokesperson clarified to Newsweek.

'I was on Jeffrey Epstein's jet two times,' he said, adding that his ex-wife - the late Mary Richardson Kennedy (pictured right), who died by suicide in 2012 - had 'some kind of relationship with Ghislaine Maxwell'

Kennedy claims that he's been 'very open' about this from the beginning of his campaign and said this was long before Epstein became known for his multitude of sex crimes

Kennedy seen with ex-wife Mary in a photo with his now-current wife, actress Cheryl Hines (pictured right)

'Mary, Kennedy's wife, and two of their kids were on the flight,' the representative said. 'Mary knew Epstein's girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell, who learned that they were going to Palm Beach for Easter and offered their family a ride.'

In October, alongside his current actress wife Cheryl Hines, Kennedy announced that he wanted independence from the two political parties.

'I'm here to declare myself an independent candidate,' he said in front of several hundred supporters, whose cheers broke up his announcement. 'Candidate for president of the United States of America.'

In a speech delivered steps away from Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Kennedy said he did not come to the decision 'lightly'.

He said: 'It's very painful for me to let go of the party of my uncles, my father, my grandfather and both of my great-grandfathers.'

Four members of his family - siblings Rory, Kerry, Joseph P. Kennedy II and Kathleen Kennedy Townsend - issued a joint statement saying they were against his independent bid, calling the move 'dangerous' and 'deeply saddening.'

Maxwell, who is now serving time for her role in Epstein's sex abuse ring, is shown in a court rendering

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced an independent presidential bid steps away from Independence Hall in Philadelphia

Actress Cheryl Hines introduces her husband Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who announced an independent presidential bid from Philadelphia

'The decision of our brother Bobby to run as a third party candidate against Joe Biden is dangerous to our country,' the statement said. 'Bobby might share the same name as our father, but he does not share the same values, vision or judgment. Today's announcement is deeply saddening for us. We denounce his candidacy and believe it to be perilous for our country.'

Kennedy is the son of the late Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1968, and the nephew of the late President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963.

One supporter brought a hand-drawn sign that read, 'I want Camelot!' a reference to the nickname for President John F. Kennedy's administration.
A religious conspiracy theorist has been arrested in the US in relation to the tragic shooting a year ago of two Queensland police officers and a Good Samaritan neighbour.

The man has been identified as Donald Day, of Arizona, who had connected online with the 'doomsday' trio who planned the chilling pre-mediated attack at Wieambilla in western Queensland last December 12.

He is mentioned by name in a creepy final video talking about 'devils' and demons' made by Nathaniel, Gareth and Stacey Train.

In the 41-second clip, Gareth Train says, 'Well see you when we get home, Don'.

The three shot dead Constable Matthew Arnold, 26, and Constable Rachel McCrow, 29, shortly after the officers arrived at their Wieambilla property in the state's Western Downs to inquire about Nathaniel's whereabouts as part of a missing person's report.

Neighbour Alan Dare was also killed in the siege before Nathan, Gareth and Stacey were all shot dead by police hours later.

In the video which sent a message to 'Don', Gareth Train says 'they came to kill us, and we killed them. If you dont defend yourself against these devils and demons, youre a coward.'

A police investigation later found that the two slain constables were fatally ambushed by the Trains who had links to the sovereign citizen movement and subscribed to a Christian fundamentalist belief system known as premillennialism.

FBI agents on Wednesday arrested Day, 58, near Heber Overgaard, north-east of Phoenix in Arizona following an extensive investigation in partnership with Queensland Police.

FBI agents have arrested Arizona-based conspiracy theorist Don Day, 58, in connection over the shooting last December of two police and a neighbour at Wieambilla, Queensland

An arrest has been made in the US, almost a year after Constable Matthew Arnold, 26, and Constable Rachel McCrow, 29, were shot dead

Agents made the arrest on December 1 in what they say was in 'connection to the religiously motivated terrorist attack'.

Investigations in Arizona are ongoing, police added.

READ MORE: How cop-killer doomsday preppers exploited a legal loophole before killing two cops and a neighbour Advertisement

The breakthrough comes after Queensland Police investigators from the ethical standards and security and counter terrorism commands recently travelled to the US.

'We've personally met with the FBI, we've handed over material that was  of interest to them,' Deputy Police Commissioner Tracy Linford told reporters earlier this year.

A pre-inquest coronial hearing held in June heard there were investigations into the online activities of the Trains to 'identify possible associates who may have influenced them in their actions'.

Queensland Police have advised that the families of the slain officers and Mr Dare have been informed of the latest developments, along with the coroner.

Two officers injured in the shooting ambush - Constable Keely Brough and Randall Kirk have also been informed.

Police are set to provide more details in a joint press conference with the FBI later on Wednesday.

Next Tuesday marks one year since Nathaniel and his ex-wife Stacey Train (pictured on their wedding day), along with his brother Gareth shot dead two police and a Good Samaritan neighbour

Good Samaritan neighbour Alan Dare (pictured) was also killed after he went to the Trains' property to investigate

Next Tuesday will mark the one-year anniversary of the tragedy which shocked Queensland.

Days after the shooting, haunting footage emerged of Gareth Train and his wife Stacy ranting about 'devils' and 'demons', filmed shortly after shooting the two constables dead on their remote bush property.

Footage posted to a now-deleted YouTube channel showed Gareth and his wife Stacey boasting about the cold-blooded killing.

The video of the couple huddled in darkness was uploaded at 7.39pm the evening of December 12, three hours after the couple and his brother Nathaniel shot the police officers dead.

In the clip, Gareth Train said: 'They came to kill us and we killed them'.

He also referred to the cops as 'devils and demons' in the clip.

Stacey Train then finished the video saying 'we'll see you when you get home' and 'love you, Don'. It is unclear who precisely they are referring to.

Gareth's brother, Nathaniel Train didn't feature in the clip.
A man has been arrested in connection with a series of shootings that killed at least six people, injured two police officers, and may have extended across multiple cities.

Shane James, 34, was booked in Travis County Jail in the early hours of Wednesday on four counts of capital murder as well as three other out-of-jurisdiction crimes that are not specified.

The first reported incident occurred just before 11 a.m. at a high school in the Texas capital, where James allegedly shot an Austin Independent School District police officer.

Shortly after that, authorities believe that he shot and killed a man and a woman at a home in the southern part of the city.

At 5pm, a male cyclist was shot, also in the southern part of the city.

That shooting was also linked to James. He suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Two hours later, a second Austin police officer was wounded by the suspect when someone called 911 to report a burglary in a home in the southwestern part of the city.

That prompted a high-speed chase which resulted in James being arrested. When officers returned to that home, they found two more people dead inside.

By Tuesday night, officials announced that the same suspect was involved in the 'grisly' murder of a couple in their 50s whose bodies were found stuffed in a small bedroom in San Antonio, some 80 miles from Austin.

The gunman came to the attention of officers when he shot a school resource officer in the leg close to the football field of Northeast Early College High School just before noon. This prompted a school lockdown which lasted for four hours.

Less than an hour later, the gunman went to a home in South Austin and shot a handyman who was sitting in a car. The suspect shot through the window.

After the gunfire broke out, a woman came outside who was then chased by the gunman down the street. He caught her, and killed her, Fox Austin report.

A man has been arrested in connection with a series of shootings that have killed at least four people, injured two police officers and may have extended across multiple cities

The suspect returned to the handyman's car, threw his body to the pavement, and stole the vehicle.

The next incident occurred around 5pm when a cyclist was shot and wounded. He was rushed to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Timeline of events 10:40 a.m. Austin officer is shot near Northeast Early College High School

11:59 a.m. Two people are shot and killed at a home on Shadywood Drive

4:57 p.m. A cyclist is shot on W. Slaughter Lane, he is left with non-life-threatening injuries

6:54 p.m. An officer responds to active burglary on Austral Loop, and the suspect fires at him

7:14 p.m. A police chase ends with suspect crashing his car and he is arrested

7.45 p.m Police find the bodies of the first two victims in a house in Bexar County Advertisement

Officers caught up with the gunman after receiving reports of a burglary at the Austral Loop in the southwest part of Austin just before 7pm.

The gunman shot and injured a second Austin police officer before fleeing. The officer's injuries are not considered life-threatening.

A 12-year-veteran office shot at the suspect but didn't hit him. She has been placed on administrative leave, as per protocol.

The suspect fled the scene and left police on a high-speed chase.

The chase ended after around 15 minutes with the suspect crashing his car at the intersection of State Highway 45 and FM 1826.

He was armed when police arrested him. Investigators discovered that the suspect had a warrant out for causing injury to a family member.

When police returned to the home where the burglary had been reported, they found the bodies of two more people.

'Questions remain as to why AISD Police and Austin police did not put out a community wide alert with a description of the suspect for residents to be on the alert,' Fox Austin' Rudy Koski wrote on X.

In San Antonio, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said that the couple who were found dead were 'well-known' in the community and said their home was 'very-well maintained.'

The suspect was named and arrested on Wednesday morning

The carnage began just before 11 a.m. at Northeast Early College High School, where the suspect allegedly shot one of the officers for the Austin Independent School District

Minutes later, he was in South Austin, where he's accused of shooting and killing two people on Shadywood Drive

Neighbors claimed that the people who lived there had only move in days earlier, saying that the man of the house had brought over cookies and apologized for any disruptions their construction had caused

Salazar, who described the murders as 'grisly,' says officials think the pair were killed before the shootings in Austin.

He did not give the cause of death but said that it was the result of a violent encounter. The couple's bodies were placed so that they were pressed up against a door.

'No one deserves to die the way they did,' the sheriff said.

Law enforcement was called to the scene after receiving a report about leaking water, investigators believe that the gunman struck a pipe.

After the shootings in Austin, officials in the city's police department communicated to counterparts in San Antonio that the suspect was linked the home in San Antonio where the couple in their 50s were killed.

Neighbors claimed that the people who lived in the Austin-home had only moved in days earlier, adding that he recently brought cookies and apologized for any disruptions the construction had caused.

A vigil was held at the home on Tuesday night.

Later that day, at around 7 p.m. local time, police received reports of a burglary at the Austral Loop in the southwest part of the city

The chase eventually ended in a crash near an intersection

Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a statement on the shooting.

'Our hearts are with the family and loved ones of the Austin ISD police officer who was shot near Northeast Early College High School today,' Abbott said.

'Our ISD police officers play a critical role on keeping Texas students and school faculty safe.

'The State of Texas is offering all available resources to local law enforcement partners who are working to ensure this dangerous criminal is caught and brought to justice.'

The Austin deaths were the 67th and 68th homicides in the city in 2023, according to police.
A Hollywood Hills homeowner shot and inured his neighbor who broke into his home and refused to leave during what authorities are calling a mental 'episode.'

Tuesday morning officers responded to reports of an assault with a deadly weapon at the 2200 block of Chelan Place - near the popular Runyon Canyon Park.

Police said the neighbor was possibly experiencing a mental episode when the homeowner confronted the subject in front of his residence and an argument ensued.

The neighbor, identified as 'Alex,' shattered the back window of a Porsche then forcibly entered his neighbor's home, reported KTLA.

Los Angeles Police Department said, 'The homeowner retreated into his own residence, but the subject followed him and forced his way through the front door.'

Police outside the 2200 block of Chelan Place after a homeowner shot and inured his neighbor who broke into his home and refused to leave

Los Angeles police said the neighbor, identified by the community as 'Alex,' was having some type of mental episode when he shattered the back window of a Porsche

'When asked to leave, the subject did not, and the homeowner retrieved a handgun. The subject advanced towards the homeowner and, in fear for his safety, the homeowner shot the subject.'

Alex was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injures and the homeowner was released after questioning by the police.

It is unclear what prompted Alex to smash the car window, but a man named Steve Costello had traveled from Las Vegas to purchase a Mercedes from the suspect.

'He was going through some kind of emotional stuff. He told me his dad passed away and thats why he was selling the house and his car,' Costello said.

A neighbor said Alex suffers from mental illness and drug abuse.

'The concerns are that hes mentally unstable. He really needs help and theres been repeated instances where hes cried for help, so to speak, so this seems like another one,' she said.

A neighbor said Alex suffers from mental illness and drug abuse. He was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and the homeowner was released after questioning

Police said, 'There's no threat to the public. It's not believed to be a robbery or a burglary gone wrong and right now, it's in the hands of detectives.'

According to Zillow, homes on the 2200 block of Chelan Place have estimated values ranging from $3.97 million to $2.04 million.

Runyon Canyon Park is known as a hot spot for celebrity sightings and its scenic trails.
Donald Trump spent a good portion of his Fox News town hall bashing Biden's cognitive state and claiming the President 'doesn't know he's alive'.

The former President criticized Biden for not being able to 'put two sentences together,' just moments after Trump himself struggled to say a coherent sentence.

During his town hall on Tuesday night - Trump rambled on about gossiping with Ted Kennedy about who the smartest and dumbest people in the Senate at the time were.

According to Trump - he didn't want to reveal who Kennedy said the smartest was because he 'really doesn't like the guy at all'.

The former President claims that in this alleged conversation - which apparently took place at the 'Kennedy Compound' in Palm Beach - Kennedy confided in Trump that Joe Biden was 'probably' the 'dumbest' person in the Senate.

Donald Trump spent a good portion of his Fox News town hall bashing Biden's cognitive state and claiming the President 'doesn't know he's alive'

Trump's Biden-bashing was accompanied by other extraordinary statements made to the Fox News host Sean Hannity at the Iowa town hall on Tuesday

The former President criticized Biden for not being able to 'put two sentences together,' just moments after Trump himself struggled to say a coherent sentence

Trump followed his anecdote up with a rant about Biden, saying 'now I see when he's not in prime time for himself... I mean years later he failed on being president when he was... like normal.'

The former President then stuttered on but randomly changed the subject to nuclear bombs, 'something is going wrong and we can't afford it because we have a problem today,' Trump said. 'Nuclear weapons is the single biggest problem the world has.'

'Take Hiroshima or Nagasaki and you look and that was many many decades ago and multiply that times 500. That's what a big bomb would be today,' Trump informed the Fox News town hall audience.

'Whether it's Israel or really major countries,' he stumbled on.

'Nuclear weapons are the biggest problem we have and we have a man who can't put two sentences together. We have a man who doesn't know he's alive,' Trump claimed.

Trump's Biden-bashing was accompanied by other extraordinary statements made to the Fox News host Sean Hannity at the Iowa town hall on Tuesday.

The former President refused to rule out abusing power to go after his critics  saying he wouldn't do it 'except for Day One'  when given multiple opportunities to forswear plans for vengeance or a power grab.

Hannity questioned him directly on some of the worst charges from his critics  including that he planned to 'abuse power' or use the justice system to take down his political rivals, and pointing out that some want to call him 'a dictator.'

'To be clear, do you in any way have any plans whatsoever if reelected president to abuse power, to break the law to use the government to go after people,' Hannity asked him.

'You mean like theyre using right now?' Trump responded, without answering the question directly.

'So in the history of our country? What's happened to us again, has never happened before. Over nonsense over nothing made up charges,' Trump said, returning to a refrain about being indicted more times (four) than infamous Chicago mobster Al Capone.

The former President said: 'Nuclear weapons are the biggest problem we have and we have a man who can't put two sentences together. We have a man who doesn't know he's alive'

The former President refused to rule out abusing power to go after his critics  saying he wouldn't do it 'except for Day One'  when given multiple opportunities to forswear plans for vengeance or a power grab

After Trump pivoted to other subjects in the sit-down interview, Hannity came back to the topic, after earlier playing a famous Trump clip telling supporters 'I am your retribution.'

'You are promising America tonight you would never abuse power as retribution?' Hannity asked the former president, who is leading President Joe Biden in a series of polls.

'Except for Day One,' Trump answered.

'Meaning?' Hannity asked him.

'I want to close the border and I want to drill, drill, drill.'

'That's not retribution,' Hannity pointed out.

Then Trump tried to get a laugh out of the line.

'He says: You're not going to be a dictator. I said "no, no, no  other than Day One. We're closing the border. And we're drilling, drilling, drilling. After that I'm not a dictator.'

A Biden-Harris account tweeted out the clip, appending the line, 'Trump: I will be a dictator on day one.'
Ackman, Elon Musk and countless others say they need to 'resign in disgrace'

Students would be expelled if such speech 'crossed over into conduct'

All three said such hate speech depends on 'context' and wasn't actionable

Billionaire Bill Ackman is leading calls for the resignations of the presidents of Harvard, UPenn and MIT after all three refused to say that calling for the genocide of Jews on campus breached their rules and amounted to harassment.

The three school leaders had been called before the House Committee on Education and the Workplace to answer for the rise in antisemitism on their campuses.

Their testimony was breathtaking. One after another, all three said calling for the genocide of Jews was anti-Semitic hate speech but didn't necessarily break their school rules.

They would act, they said, if such hate speech crossed over into 'conduct'.

An incredulous Elise Stefanik, (R-NY), asked: 'Conduct being committing genocide?'

Now, Ackman - who gave $26million to Harvard in 2014 - is calling for the resignation of all three women. Elon Musk and countless others also think it's time for their departure, and say the hearing crystalizes their liberal bias.

Harvard Hillel, the school's leading Jewish organization, said it was 'appalled by the need to state the obvious'.

The Harvard Alumni Association and the school's Board of Overseers are yet to address Gay's remarks.

Claudine Gay, president of Harvard, is seen on Tuesday appearing before the House education committee to discuss antisemitism

UPenn President Liz Magill said the school had demonstrated its 'unyielding commitment to combatting antisemitism' but also refused to categorize calls for the genocide of Jews as harassment or a breach of the school's code of conduct

MIT President Dr. Sally Kornbluth was also grilled for her school's response to protests. She too failed to outwardly condemn calls for the genocide of Jews

Presidents of @Harvard @MIT and @Penn REFUSE to say whether calling for the genocide of Jews is bullying and harassment according to their codes of conduct. Even going so far to say it needs to turn to action first. As in committing genocide.



THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE AND pic.twitter.com/hUY3SgoOOi  Rep. Elise Stefanik (@RepStefanik) December 5, 2023

'President Gays refusal to draw a line around threatening antisemitic speech as a violation of Harvards policies is profoundly shocking given explicit provisions within the conduct code prohibiting this kind of bullying and harassment.

'We are appalled by the need to state the obvious: A call for genocide against Jews is always a hateful incitement of violence.

'President Gays failure to properly condemn this speech calls into question her ability to protect Jewish students on Harvards campus.

'President Gays testimony fails to reassure us that the University is seriously concerned about the antisemitic rhetoric pervasive on campus.

'We call on President Gay to take action against those using threatening speech that violates our community standards,' the Hillel said in a statement to members last night.

The three universities have been roiled by a series of pro-Palestine marches on their campuses in the wake of the October 7 attack, with students blaming Israel for Hamas' terrorist outrage, and saying the country deserved it.

Some academics have expressed rabidly anti-Israel opinions, and threats have been made against Jewish students on campus.

All three presidents have admitted they were slow to distance themselves from student groups justifying the October 7 massacres.

But they insisted that they wanted to preserve an environment of free speech - and refused, to Stefanik's fury, to give a 'yes or no' answer to questions about condemning certain rhetoric.

'I am asking, specifically calling for the genocide of Jews, does that constitute bullying or harassment?' asked Stefanik.

Gay told her that it depended on the context.

Stefanik responded that it was 'the easiest question', then answered for them: 'The answer is yes.'

Stefanik pressed Gay over whether Harvard would punish students or applicants who advocate for the murder of Jews.

At todays hearing, Harvards President shamefully refused to say whether the calling for the mass violence and genocide of the Jewish people is considered harassment or bullying according to Harvards own code of conduct.



Claudine Gay should resign immediately. pic.twitter.com/gjzmTHUcec  Rep. Elise Stefanik (@RepStefanik) December 5, 2023

Elise Stefanik, a Republican representing New York, grilled the three university presidents on Tuesday

Bill Ackman said all three women must resign 'in disgrace' after their testimony

Ackman said he was receiving calls from Harvard donors and alumni asking if the testimony was fake

Outrage: There are growing calls for all three women to resign

Gay replied: 'That type of hateful, reckless, offensive speech is personally abhorrent to me.'

She said the university had 'robust policies' that hold individuals accountable when speech crosses into conduct, such as bullying, harassment or intimidation.

'We embrace a commitment to free expression and give a wide berth to free expression even to views that are objectionable, outrageous and offensive,' Gay said.

At one point, Gay said: 'I've sought to confront hate while preserving free expression. This is difficult work, and I know that I have not always gotten it right.'

But Stefanik said their answers were 'unacceptable', and demanded all three resign.

Ackman said he was horrified by the testimony.

'This could be the most extraordinary testimony ever elicited in the Congress, certainly on the topic of genocide,' he wrote on X.

'The presidents' answers reflect the profound educational, moral and ethical failures that pervade certain of our elite educational institutions due in large part to their failed leadership.'

He said that the trio's answers would be unacceptable in the business world.

'If a CEO of one of our companies gave a similar answer, he or she would be toast within the hour,' he said.

'Why has antisemitism exploded on campus and around the world?

'Because of leaders like Presidents Gay, Magill and Kornbluth who believe genocide depends on the context.

Bill Ackman, who is worth $3.5billion and completed his BA and MBA at Harvard University, blamed Gay for the 'blatant' newfound antisemitism, saying the hatred is caused by 'your actions, and inactions'

Palestinian supporters gathered at Harvard University to show their support for Gaza, and their hatred for Israel, at a rally in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on October 14

Harvard's Palestine Solidarity Committee triggered fury by writing - on October 7 - that Israel was 'entirely responsible for all unfolding violence.' President Claudine Gay has been heavily criticized for failing to appropriately condemn the students who backed the statement

'To think that these are the leaders of Ivy League institutions that are charged with the responsibility to educate our best and brightest.'

His criticism of Gay comes just days after the billionaire posted an open letter on X accusing Harvard of discriminating against 'straight white men' and railing against the university's equity and inclusion efforts.

The Jewish student organization, Harvard Hillel, said that Gay's 'refusal' to 'draw a line' on threatening antisemitic speech is 'profoundly shocking.'

Harvard Hillel said that they questioned the president's 'ability to protect Jewish students on Harvard's campus.'

'We are appalled by the need to state the obvious: A call for genocide against Jews is always a hateful incitement of violence. President Gay's failure to properly condemn this speech calls into question her ability to protect Jewish students on Harvard's campus,' the Harvard Hillel said.

'Chants to 'globalize the intifada,' an endorsement of violent terrorist attacks against Jewish and Israeli civilians, and 'from the river to the sea,' an eliminationist slogan intended to deprive Jews of their right to self-determination in Israel, have become tragically routine at Harvard.'

Newly surfaced video shows a confrontation at a recent demonstration on Harvard University's campus, where pro-Palestinian protesters surrounded a student chanting 'shame'

Protesters encircle a man (with arms up), moving through the yard during the October 18 protest at Harvard University, holding up keffiyehs (scarfs) before he slips into a nearby building

Magill, the UPenn president, was questioned over her school's participation in a 'Palestine Writes Festival' in September.

A complaint filed with the Education Department against Penn cites the festival as a catalyst for antisemitic incidents on campus. Speakers included several with a history of making antisemitic remarks, such as Pink Floyd's Roger Waters.

She said antisemitic speech at the event was 'abhorrent' to her and that the institution put safety precautions into place.

'Why in the world would you host someone like that on your campus?' asked Jim Banks, a Republican congressman for Indiana.

'Antisemitism has no place at Penn,' Magill began to answer.

Banks interrupted, and asked: 'Why did you invite Roger Waters?'

She concluded: 'I think canceling that conference would have been very inconsistent with academic freedom and free expression despite the fact that the views of some of the people who came to that conference I find very, very objectionable because of their antisemitism.'
A Las Vegas mother of three is battling to save the life of her unborn child after receiving a devastating leukemia diagnosis.

In November Aryanna Brewer, 26, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia for the second time in her life.

The mother of three young kids, 6, 4 and 17 months found out her bone marrow was '90 percent cancer' after discovering she was also pregnant with her fourth child.

'The symptoms are like fatigue, shortness of breath, so I am thinking this has to do with being pregnant but then I come to find out I'm anemic which is a big sign that leukemia has come back especially if you a history,' Brewer told Fox 5.

Brewer previously beat leukemia as a sixteen-year-old after undergoing chemotherapy for two and a half years.

Aryanna Brewer, 26, has three children 6, 4 and 17 months and is pregnant with her fourth

In November Brewer was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia for the second time

'I have to beat cancer because I have three kids that need me,' Brewer said

'When we finally got to the point where they did the bone marrow biopsy that was it, they saw my bone marrow was 90% cancer,' she explained.

Brewer requires an allogeneic stem cell transplant unavailable in Las Vegas.

Desperate to access the vital treatment Brewer reached out to facilities in Utah and Arizona but was not successful in securing a place.

'I have to beat cancer because I have three kids that need me,' she told the outlet.

However, she has managed to gain admission at UCLA in California where she will remain for a month of chemotherapy.

If she manages to go into remission she will then undergo a further 28 days of immunotherapy.

'Then we would be looking at delivering the baby early by C-sectionrecovering 4-6 weeksand then after that the bone marrow transplant,' Brewer told Fox 5.

'We are going to check her heartbeat every day, every Monday they are going to check her growth. If there is a chance that its safe and we can do it then we want to try,' Brewer shared.

Brewer requires an allogeneic stem cell transplant unavailable in Las Vegas

Brewer with her husband Scotty on their wedding day

Brewer must also search for a bone marrow match and is asking friends, family, and everyone to sign up for free testing.

Brewer's family has set up a GoFundMe fundraiser to help the family with expenses as she undergoes her treatment.

'During this time Ary's husband will be the sole provider for their family traveling back and forth from California where Ary will be and Las Vegas where her kids will be while she receives treatment' the fundraiser states.

'She does not know what the future holds for the baby she is currently pregnant with, her family or her health.

Ary is an amazing woman, mother, wife, sister and friend who does not deserve the battle she is facing. Any and all help is greatly appreciated.'
A fourth asylum seeker has been arrested following a controversial High Court ruling, as Anthony Albanese faces a full-blown crisis over his handling of the issue.

The Sudanese-born man, 45, was arrested by Australian Federal Police officers at a Melbourne Hotel on Wednesday and charge with allegedly stealing luggage at Melbourne Airport from a traveller who was asleep and for failing to comply with a curfew.

He has been charged with one count of theft, an offence carrying a maximum imprisonment of ten years, and one count of failing to comply with a curfew condition, which carries a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment and a $93,900 fine.

The man was expected to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Wednesday.

A fourth asylum seeker has been arrested following a controversial High Court ruling, as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (pictured) faces a full-blown crisis over his handling of the issue

The High Court's ruling on November 8 found that indefinite detention was unlawful allowed 148 dangerous non-citizens to be released from detention (pictured: a released detainee last week)

He is the fourth asylum seeker to be charged with offences after the High Court's ruling on November 8, which found that indefinite detention was unlawful, allowed 148 dangerous non-citizens to be released from detention.

Three other freed detainees - including a paedophile and a sex offender- have been arrested and charged in separate incidents.

Afghan refugee and convicted sex offender Aliyawar Yawari, 65, was charged with indecently assaulting a woman at a hotel in South Australia on Saturday.

He was branded a 'danger to the Australian community' by a judge after he attacked three women and kicked down the door of an ageing mother.

Meanwhile, Mohammed Ali Nadari, 45, was arrested over drug charges in New South Wales.

Daily Mail Australia earlier revealed that Nadari has a lengthy criminal history, including convictions discharging a firearm with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, contravening an apprehended violence order, indecent assault, theft, larceny, resisting a police officer, drug possession and property related offences.

Aliyawar Yawari, 65, is a convicted sex offender who was branded a 'danger to the Australian community' by a judge after he attacked three women and kicked in the door of one mother

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Convicted paedophile Emran Dad, 33, was also arrested in Dandenong, south-east of Melbourne, for allegedly making contact with minors on social media and breaching his reporting obligations.

He was also charged with trespassing after failing to leave a public arena in Dandenong on November 24.

Dad, who is from Afghanistan, was alleged to have run a prostitution ring that targeted underage girls in state care and was jailed for having sex with a 13-year-old girl in exchange for cigarettes.

The arrests mark a significant escalation in the crisis facing the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, who stands accused of failing a major leadership test over the issue.

Attorney General Mark Dreyfus lashed out at a Sky News reporter on Wednesday when asked if he would apologise to the Australian public for the debacle.

An irate Mr Dreyfus branded the question 'absurd' and hectored the journalist for attempting to interrupt him.

'You are asking a Cabinet Minister of the Crown to apologise for upholding the law of Australia, for acting in accordance with the law of Australia, for following the instructions of the High Court of Australia,' he said.

'I will not be apologising for upholding the law.

Yesterday, Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil said the Government was hamstrung by the High Court decision.

Ms O'Neil took steps to implement preventive detention legislation, typically applied to terrorists and spies, in order to lock up some of the detainees.

'If it were up to me, all these people would never have been released from detention,' she said.
Prince Harry received a 'save the date' invitation to the Duke of Westminster's wedding but turned it down to avoid an 'awkward' clash with his relatives, a Sussex source has claimed.

Harry and Meghan's absence from the guest list for the high society nuptials at Chester Cathedral has attracted significant interest, not least because the Duke of Sussex and Hugh Grosvenor are childhood friends.

Grosvenor, who invited the Prince and Princess of Wales, was said to have wanted to ask the Sussexes too but decided against it to avoid clashes on his big day amid soaring tensions following the release of Omid Scobie's new book.

He was also believed to be mindful of a row that complicated his sister's wedding at the same venue in 2004, when Camilla Parker Bowles was invited but told to sit away from Prince Charles to avoid the Queen seeing them together.

But now a different account has emerged in Page Six, with an insider claiming that Harry had been sent a 'save the date' for the wedding only for the prince to phone Grosvenor and tell him it would be 'too awkward' for him and Meghan to attend.

Harry and Meghan, pictured at the Invictus Games in September, turned down a 'save the date' to the Duke of Westminster's wedding to avoid an 'awkward' clash with the royal family, sources claim

Reports had claimed Hugh Grosvenor, left, decided not to invite the Sussexes to his wedding to Olivia Henson, right, so the row between Harry and William wouldn't overshadow his big day

But a source close to Harry, 39, claims he called the duke to say he and Meghan would not be attending because 'it would be too awkward'. Pictured: Harry and William in 2021

The remark came after a friend of the princes responded to the alleged snub, claiming it was 'incredibly sad it has come to this'. Pictured: Kate, William, Harry and Meghan view tributes to the Queen at Windsor in September 2022

'Harry actually got a ''save the date'' card a few months ago but called Hugh and said it would be too awkward if he and Meghan Markle attended, so he made his apologies and Hugh understood,' the Sussex insider was quoted as saying.

MailOnline has approached both the Sussexes and Duke of Westminster for comment.

Grosvenor, 32, is to marry Olivia Henson, 30, at Chester Cathedral on June 7. The King, Queen, Prince and Princess of Wales and Prince George, who is the Duke's godson, are all invited.

The Daily Mail revealed on Monday that - when putting together the guest list - Grosvenor was mindful of a royal row that complicated his sister's ceremony at the same venue.

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'Hugh knows how sensitive wedding invitations can be,' a friend of the family said.

Camilla Parker Bowles was invited to his sister Lady Tamara Grosvenor's wedding but was told that she would not be permitted to sit with Prince Charles and would have to sit several rows back.

She would also have to arrive separately. This was because Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip were due to attend the ceremony.

A Buckingham Palace courtier was quoted as saying at the time: 'It may provoke comment on the day, but Her Majesty will also be attending and she is a stickler for protocol.

'A pew will be set aside for the members of the Royal Family attending, and it would be inappropriate for Mrs Parker Bowles to sit beside Prince Charles since she has no official standing.

'Even for Mrs Parker Bowles to arrive with the Prince at the event, in the presence of the Queen, would be to confer rights and status upon her that she simply does not have.'

Grosvenor was worried about anything 'overshadowing' the day, a friend of Harry and William said on Sunday.

'Hugh is one of very few close friends of William and Harry's who has maintained strong bonds and a line of communication with both,' the friend told the Times.

'He wishes they could put their heads together and patch things up, but realises it's unlikely to happen before the wedding. He wanted to avoid anything overshadowing the day, especially for Olivia, and doesn't want any awkwardness.'

A spokesman for the Duke said: 'We are not in a position to comment on the guest list.' Buckingham Palace also declined to comment.

It is believed William and Kate, pictured, and the King and Queen Camilla are all invited to the June 6 wedding

Grosvenor, who is thought to own more land than the King, has an estimated net worth of 9.42 billion. Pictured: Grosvenor with his mother in 2018

Prince William, right, and the Duke of Westminster, centre, in 2018

It is thought Prince William, pictured with Grosvenor in 2004, is in the running to be the duke's best man

Known as Hughie to this friends, the billionaire duke is also godfather to William's son Prince George, ten.

A life-long friend to both Harry and William, he is thought to be the only pal both chose to mentor their children.

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Grosvenor, who is thought to own more land than the King, has an estimated net worth of 9.42 billion and has a long history with the Royal Family - with his late father Gerald acting as King Charles' own godfather.

The duke was the third child and only son of Gerald Grosvenor, the 6th Duke of Westminster, and his wife Natalia who is a descendant of the Russian Imperial House of Romanov, specifically from Nicholas I of Russia.

When the duke was baptised on June 23 1991, the King - then the Prince of Wales - agreed to officiate as godfather.

He even had an official role in the King's coronation procession - carrying the Standards of the Quarterings of the Royal Arms and Standard of the Principality of Wales - alongside the Marquess of Anglesey, the Earl of Caledon and Scottish peer and Conservative politician the Earl of Dundee.

Grosvenor was raised at Eaton Hall in Cheshire with his three sisters - Lady Tamara, Lady Edwina, and Lady Viola. They attended a local public primary school before going to the small, private Mostyn House School and then Ellesmere College in Shropshire, where fees are 40,635 a year.

He later studied at Newcastle University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in countryside management.

The Sunday Times reported that the Duke had wanted to invite Harry and Meghan, pictured in New York last month, but decided against it as he feared the tension it would cause with other Royals

Known as Hughie to this friends, the billionaire Duke is also godfather to Prince George, the oldest child of The Prince and Princess of Wales

Ed Van Cutsem and Lady Tamara Grosvenor leave their wedding service at Chester Cathedral on November 6, 2004

The duke, whose Latin family motto Virtus Non Stemma means Virtue not Ancestry, was Earl Grosvenor until 2016, when his father died and he became the seventh duke.

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At the time he was labelled Britain's most eligible bachelor, but in April this year he announced his engagement to Olivia Grace Henson.

Ms Henson, the duke's girlfriend of two years, works for an ethical food company. She attended the Princess of Wales's old school, Marlborough College, where Princess Eugenie was a contemporary.

Grosvenor confirmed the engagement in a statement that said: 'The Duke of Westminster and Miss Olivia Henson are delighted to announce they are engaged to be married.

'The couple, who have been together for two years, recently became engaged at the duke's family home at Eaton Hall in Cheshire.

'Members of both their families are absolutely delighted with the news.

'Hugh Grosvenor, The Duke of Westminster, is Grosvenor's Chair as well as Chair of the Westminster Foundation. Miss Henson works for Belazu, a B-Corp certified food company based in London.'

William is said to 'want action' after Kate was named alongside Charles as the two royals identified by Meghan in a private letter to the King, which claimed 'concern' was expressed about her future son's skin colour. Pictured: Harry and Meghan with Archie in 2019

Charles and Kate were named as the senior royals who allegedly commented on Archie's skin colour before he was born

The original 'racism' claim was made in the Sussexes' infamous 2021 Oprah Winfrey interview

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, shows Archie to her mother Doria Ragland, the Queen and Prince Philip at Windsor Castle in 2019

News that the Sussexes will not attend Grosvenor's wedding comes as Harry and Meghan are facing a mounting backlash as they continue to maintain their silence on royal racism claims made by their 'mouthpiece' Omid Scobie in his new book, Endgame.

The Dutch translation has caused the Royal Family consternation after the King and the Princess of Wales were named as the senior royals who allegedly discussed Archie's skin tone.

The couple are yet to speak on the book publicly and a meeting between Charles and William is now set to take place next week to discuss how to handle the fallout from Scobie's book.

It could have serious consequences for Harry and Meghan as William is believed to 'want action'.

Determinedly, the Royal Family has adopted a 'business as usual' stance, but the possibility of legal action remains. The final decision on the next step rests with Charles, who, according to sources, will not act hastily.

A Palace source said: 'Most right-thinking people would expect an apology  who wouldn't?

'Being falsely branded a racist in print is a serious allegation that must be treated seriously. All options are still on the table.'

Sources close to the Sussexes have attempted to distance the couple from the book. They say Meghan never intended the King or Princess of Wales to be publicly identified in the race row and say the letter was not leaked to Scobie by anyone close to her.

Harry and Meghan with Archie after his christening at Windsor with (left to right) Camilla, Charles, Doria Ragland, Lady Jane Fellowes, Lady Sarah McCorquodale, and William and Kate

The inclusion of the names led to 5,000 copies of the book, called 'Final Battle' (pictured) in Holland, being withdrawn from sale and pulped

Harry and Meghan, pictured in Dusseldorf in September, have not commented on the scandal publicly

Meanwhile, Conservative MP Bob Seely is putting forward a Bill that could deny the Sussexes their Duke and Duchess titles.

Writing in The Mail on Sunday, he said that he felt compelled to act because of the 'use of race to smear the Royal Family'  and proposes to revive First World War laws that could pave the way to making the couple plain Mr and Mrs Sussex.

The Isle of Wight MP wants to adapt laws originally passed to deny enemy German nobles their British titles. Mr Seely said he had to act because of the attempt to use race to smear the Royal Family, which he called 'poisonously insidious'.

He is applying for his Titles Deprivation 1917 Amendment Bill to be listed on the Commons' Order Paper next week. It would resurrect the wartime powers by removing references to 'enemies' and 'present war'. He has cleared the wording with Parliament's Table Office, which oversees draft legislation.
KFC is thwarting councils attempting to fight rising obesity by challenging their bids to prevent takeaways being opened near schools, officials have claimed, after it was revealed this week the health crisis is costing the UK 100billion per year.

The fast food giant has succeeded in having the policies stopped completely or significantly watered down in 24 of 43 council areas it has challenged, the Times reports.

Since 2017, 16 councils have abandoned the plans while a further eight have had to limit the extent of their powers, after the fast food giant responded to public consultations.

KFC has argued in many cases that the policies have either not been through the proper channels or that there is not a strong enough evidential link between childhood obesity and takeaways close to schools.

It comes after the scale of the UK's obesity problem was revealed to be costing 100billion per year this week, with two thirds of adults now classed as overweight or obese. The same is true for 38 percent of year six pupils at English schools of which almost 25 percent are obese.

The fast food giant has succeeded in having the policies stopped completely or significantly watered down in 24 of 43 council areas it has challenged

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Council officials have been trying to limit the number of takeaways and fast food restaurants close to schools across the country, but are required to open up new planning policies to a public consultation.

These policies have reportedly often been challenged by KFC, with an external planning inspector ruling in the chain's favour in half of cases.

One such case is the town of Wakefield, in West Yorkshire, where four in ten year six pupils are overweight or obese.

When the council introduced plans to ban new takeaways within 400 metres of schools claiming that year six pupils living with the highest density of fast food restaurants had a higher BMI than those with none.

But KFC successfully argued in March that there was not sufficient evidence of a direct link, adding the proposal was 'negative in its assumption that all hot food takeaways offer little choice and serve the same type and standard of food', the Times reports.

The plans were struck down by a planning inspector.

Children haven't been spared either, with an increasing portion becoming overweight or obese as they age. Data for 2021/22

Much like adults the proportion of children in England either obese or overweight have broadly increased over time

A quarter of kids in reception are now considered overweight, with one in 10 obese

A spokesperson for KFC said: 'We take our role on high streets and the positive contribution we make in communities across the country extremely seriously and, like many businesses, we take up opportunities to contribute when local authorities seek the views of relevant parties on things like planning policy.

'This is a standard part of the policymaking process to ensure potentially unconsidered impacts on the local area are brought to light.

'As a part of this routine consultation process, we have offered our concerns on some draft policies which took a broad-brush stroke approach, supported by limited evidence, that would in practice actually mean a ban on opening any new restaurants at all in the local area.

'As a business, we are in fact supportive of the sector taking a responsible approach to schools. For example, we already have self-imposed restrictions on advertising near schools which are stricter than current advertising regulations.'
Israel continued to dismiss US calls to temper its ground invasion as Israeli troops began their bloody new phase of the war and pushed into Gaza's second-largest city where Hamas terrorist leaders are believed to be hiding.

Israeli forces were encircling the southern city of Khan Yunis today, fighting terrorists in intense street battles in some of the fiercest combat of the two-month war.

The focus of the conflict has shifted to the besieged territory's south following fierce fighting and bombardment that reduced much of the north to rubble and forced nearly two million people to flee their homes.

And despite Washington's desperate calls for Israel to prevent yet more bloodshed in Gaza and provide more aid, Israeli forces, backed by warplanes, reached the heart of Khan Younis yesterday and surrounded the city - trapping the thousands of exhausted civilians who had fled there.

The IDF aims to wipe out the Hamas leaders it believes are hiding in Khan Younis while using innocent civilians as human shields. But the cost of the war continues to mount, with more than 16,248 Palestinians killed since the conflict broke out two months ago, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza.

Today, Israeli tanks, troops and bulldozers encircled the southern city after what the IDF said was the 'most intense day of fighting' since the war began.

Israeli air strikes obliterated buildings within Khan Younis today, with the IDF claiming it had killed several Hamas commanders in a strike near the Indonesia Hospital.

Israel continued to dismissed US calls to calm its ground invasion as Israeli troops began their bloody new phase of the war and pushed into Gaza 's second-largest city where Hamas terrorist leaders are believed to be hiding

Israeli troops are pictured here in the Gaza Strip, in this image released by the IDF today

Injured Palestinian children wait to receive medical treatment at Nasser Hospital after Israeli airstrike in Khan Yunis, Gaza on Tuesday

Injured Palestinian children wait to receive medical treatment at Nasser Hospital after Israeli airstrike in Khan Yunis, Gaza, on Tuesday

Hamas and Islamic Jihad, another Palestinian terror group, said their fighters were battling Israeli troops early this morning in a bid to prevent them from breaking into Khan Younis and surrounding areas.

Dozens of people were killed and injured in heavy strikes on areas east of Khan Yunis, Hamas said.

'Our forces are now encircling the Khan Yunis area in the southern Gaza Strip,' Israel's army chief Herzi Halevi said late Tuesday. 'We have secured many Hamas strongholds in the northern Gaza Strip, and now we are operating against its strongholds in the south.'

The fighting on Tuesday was 'the most intense day since the beginning of the ground operation' in late October, the army's Southern Command chief Major General Yaron Finkelman said.

Hamas' armed wing said it killed or wounded eight Israeli troops and destroyed 24 military vehicles on Tuesday. An Israeli military website listed two troop deaths for Tuesday and 83 since the ground operation began.

Israel declared war on Hamas after the terrorist group's October 7 attacks that killed 1,200 people and saw around 240 hostages taken. Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas and free the 138 hostages still held after scores were freed during a short-lived truce.

The United States, Israel's most important ally, has also ramped up calls for greater efforts to prevent civilian deaths in Gaza. But Israel paid no heed to Washington, as it continued with its bloody new phase of the war.

Indeed, Gaza health officials said many civilians were killed in an Israeli strike on houses in Deir al-Balah, north of Khan Younis. Dr Eyad Al-Jabri, head of the Shuhada Al-Aqsa Hospital there, told Reuters at least 45 people were killed. Reuters could not reach the area nor confirm the toll.

Meanwhile, areas in the central and northern Gaza Strip were still coming under bombardment on Wednesday, according to Hamas.

The Hamas-run health ministry said air strikes on the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza killed six people and injured 14 others.

Israel had previously told civilians in the north of the densely populated Gaza Strip to seek shelter in the south of the territory, with many fleeing to Khan Yunis believing it would be safer.

As the war expands, Israel has told people to move even further south, sparking 'panic, fear and anxiety', according to Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA.

People were being pushed into an area that is less than one-third of the Gaza Strip, with roads to the south clogged, he said.

Israeli tanks in the Gaza Strip amid their continued ground invasion of territory

Israeli troops are pictured here in the Gaza Strip, in this image released by the IDF today

A Palestinian woman stands in a destroyed room in a building as she inspects the site of Israeli strikes in Khan Younis on Wednesday

People mourn as they collect the bodies of Palestinians killed in an airstrike on Wednesday in Khan Younis

People mourn as they collect the bodies of Palestinians killed in an airstrike on Wednesday in Khan Younis

Israeli troops are pictured here in the Gaza Strip, in this image released by the IDF today

International aid groups have condemned the succession of orders to flee from one area to another, saying that civilians were running out of options.

'Nowhere is safe in Gaza,' said United Nations humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths. 'Not hospital, not shelters, not refugee camps. No one is safe.'

Following demands to create areas where civilians could shelter, Israel's army published a map it said was intended to enable Gazans to 'evacuate from specific places for their safety if required'.

But the UN criticised the map on Tuesday, saying it was impossible to create safe zones for civilians to flee to inside Gaza.

'The so-called safe zones... are not scientific, they are not rational, they are not possible, and I think the authorities are aware of this,' said James Elder, spokesman for the UN children's agency UNICEF.

At Khan Younis' main Nasser hospital, the wounded arrived by ambulance, car, flatbed truck and donkey cart after what survivors described as a strike on a school being used as a shelter for the displaced.

Inside a ward, almost every inch of blood-splattered floor space was taken up by the wounded including small children, with medics hurrying from patient to patient while relatives wailed.

Two girls were being treated, still covered in dust from the collapse of the house that had buried their family.

'My parents are under the rubble,' sobbed one child. 'I want my mum, I want my mum, I want my family.'

The violence in Gaza 'now ranks amongst the worst assaults on any civilian population in our time and age', according to the Norwegian Refugee Council, which also warned of the dire public health consequences of the approaching winter.

Their belongings piled onto donkey carts, battered vehicles and camels, Gazans headed south to try to escape the expanding Israeli offensive.

An estimated 1.9 million people are displaced in Gaza - roughly three-quarters of the population, according to UN figures.

Amid continued international criticism of Gaza's plight, the United States, Israel's close ally, reiterated on Tuesday that Israel needed to do more to allow fuel and other aid into Gaza and reduce harm to civilians.

'The level of assistance that's getting in is not sufficient,' U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said at a press briefing. 'It needs to go up, and we've made that clear to the government of Israel.'

Israeli troops are pictured here in the Gaza Strip, in this image released by the IDF today

A Palestinian child, injured in an Israeli airstrike arrives at Nasser Medical Hospital on Wednesday in Khan Younis

Palestinians inspect the site of Israeli strikes, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Khan Younis on Wednesday

Palestinian children carry items as they walk at the site of Israeli strikes in Khan Younis on Wednesday

A picture taken from southern Israel near the border with the Gaza Strip on Wednesday shows an Israeli air force attack helicopter firing a missile at Gaza

Smoke rises in Gaza, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, as seen from southern Israel, on Wednesday

In northern Gaza, the Israeli military said it had encircled the Jabalia refugee camp and also raided a Hamas Internal Security Forces command and control centre. According to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, several people were killed and injured in Israeli strikes on Jabalia.

Fighting in Gaza resumed after the collapse on Friday of a Qatar-mediated truce that saw scores of Israeli and other hostages released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Qatar's ruler, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, said his country was 'constantly working to renew' the truce and denounced what he called 'shameful' international inaction over the war.

It comes as Israeli police said they are investigating alleged sexual crimes and Israel's justice ministry has said 'victims were tortured, physically abused, raped, burned alive, and dismembered'.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Tuesday that Hamas had repeatedly raped women and mutilated their bodies during its assault on southern Israel, citing survivors and witnesses.

'It is appalling,' he told a political fundraiser in Boston.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cited the claims of rape and other abuse in a meeting with families of returned hostages on Tuesday that some participants described as angry because of frustration over the government's handling of the situation.

'I heard stories that broke my heart... I heard and you also heard, about sexual assault and cases of brutal rape unlike anything,' Netanyahu said at a press conference.

The war has sparked fears of a wider regional conflict, with frequent exchanges of fire with Iran-backed Hezbollah across Israel's border with Lebanon.

A Lebanese soldier was killed by Israeli fire on a military post near the country's southern border Tuesday, the army said.

Israel's army acknowledged the incident, saying in a post on X that it had targeted a Hezbollah position in an effort 'to eliminate an imminent threat'.

The occupied West Bank has also seen a surge in violence.

Israeli troops raided Faraa refugee camp in the north of the territory early Wednesday, sparking clashes that killed two people, one of them aged 16, according to Palestinian news agency Wafa.

The latest deaths added to more than 250 people killed in the West Bank since October, according to Palestinian authorities.
Boris Johnson arrived at the Covid inquiry today as he prepares for an epic two-day grilling on his pandemic decisions.

The former PM was driven up to the venue in central London nearly three hours before his appearance is scheduled to begin at 10am.

Mr Johnson is set to mount a robust defence of his leadership during the crisis, after coming under heavy fire for delaying tough restrictions in the initial phase.

He will acknowledge that some mistakes were made and the initial lockdown was inevitable given the lack of treatments for a new virus - but point out that the government was 'between a rock and a hard place' and had no 'good choices'.

Mr Johnson is expected to suggest the inquiry has given too little consideration to the downsides of restrictions for education, health and the economy.

In written evidence, Mr Johnson said he had a duty to consider whether lockdowns 'would do (and did do) more harm than good'.

He added: 'We were between a rock and a hard place. We simply had no good choices, and it was necessary at all times to weigh up the harms that any choice would cause.'

Boris Johnson was driven up to the venue in central London nearly three hours before his appearance is scheduled to begin at 10am

The former prime minister is set to face a grilling by the inquiry's chief counsel, Hugo Keith KC (pictured)

Mr Johnson is set to mount a robust defence of his leadership during the crisis, after coming under heavy fire for delaying tough restrictions in the initial phase

He is also expected to repeat his denials that he ever said to 'let the bodies pile high' rather than order a third lockdown.

Downing Street at the time strongly denied he made the comment, insisting it was 'just another lie'.

Mr Johnson's former chief of staff Lord Lister told the inquiry last month he heard the former PM say the words during a meeting in September 2020.

The former premier is also set to be quizzed about Sir Patrick Vallance's diary entries in which he wrote about his frustrations in dealing with the then-prime minister.

'(Mr Johnson is) obsessed with older people accepting their fate and letting the young get on with life and the economy going,' he said.

'Quite bonkers set of exchanges,' he wrote, referring to a WhatsApp group including Mr Johnson.

Tory MP Sir Michael Fabricant said the inquiry appeared at times to be more interested in 'salacious' WhatsApp messages between ministers and officials than in learning the lessons of the crisis.

And he appealed for Mr Johnson to be given a fair hearing: 'I have been a little worried that the inquiry has drifted into who swore what at whom rather than focusing on the lessons learned in case, God forbid, we have another pandemic.

'I just hope that Boris will be heard by people with an open mind rather than the prejudice which he has met in the past at other hearings.'

Another supporter of the former PM said the inquiry appeared to have started from a presumption that lockdowns were the right response to the pandemic and that the Government had been too slow.

'They only seem to be interested in asking whether we should have locked down sooner or for longer,' the source said.

'There has been very little discussion so far of the incredibly difficult trade-offs involved or of the constantly changing scientific advice, which was against locking down early on.

'If you really want to learn the lessons of the pandemic you  which is what Boris is interested in  you have to look at everything, not start with a pre-determined narrative.'

Mr Johnson is expected to acknowledge that the first lockdown of March 2020 was inevitable, given the lack of a vaccine or effective treatments against a deadly new virus.

But in his written testimony he said he had been 'very worried about the economic harm caused... and whether it would do more damage to the country than the virus itself'.

He is also expected to suggest that the inquiry should take more interest in the origins of the virus. Michael Gove was shut down at the hearings when he suggested that a 'significant body of judgment' now believed Covid-19 was man-made.

Mr Johnson will apologise for mistakes made by the Government during the pandemic.

But he will insist that ministers 'got the big calls right': achieving one of the fastest vaccine rollouts in the world, preventing the collapse of the NHS, developing innovative treatments like dexamethasone and emerging from the final lockdown quickly.

He will also reject claims that he 'switched off' during a half-term break in February 2020.
Channel 4 has been accused of nepotism after it emerged that the writer of The Couple Next Door is married to the station's head of drama.

The middle-class swinger thriller is written by David Allison and was announced earlier this year as a commission by drama boss Caroline Hollick, who is also his wife.

Industry insiders last week claimed the show had become a 'talking point' in the British drama community after producers connected the link between Mr Allison and Ms Hollick, Deadline reported.

But the network has now denied the allegations of nepotism, claiming that Ms Hollick had 'recused herself' from the programme and was 'not involved in decision-making for the series'.

Channel 4 also alleged that Ms Hollick was 'not involved' in the commissioning process for the second series of Suspect, which also names her husband as one of its two writers.

Channel 4 drama The Couple Next Door stars, from left, Alfred Enoch, Eleanor Tomlinson, Jessica De Gouw and Sam Heughan

The middle-class swinger thriller is written by David Allison and was announced earlier this year as a commission by drama boss Caroline Hollick, who is also his wife

Channel 4 took over the commissioning of The Couple Next Door, a co-production with US network STARZ, after a majority funding partner pulled out of the project.

It is understood that at this point, Ms Hollick 'declared a conflict of interest' and 'stepped away' from the programme. Commission Editor Rebecca Holdsworth reportedly led the greenlight process.

A Channel 4 spokesman told MailOnline today: 'Caroline Hollick was not involved with the commissioning or editorial management of The Couple Next Door.

'She registered a conflict of interest at the early stages of the projects development and recused herself from any decisions related to it.'

But a Channel 4 press release announcing the project in March this year said it was 'commissioned by' Ms Hollick, who hailed the series as an 'addictive, emotional rollercoaster' that addresses 'modern sexual mores' and features an 'electrifying cast that will set our screens on fire'.

An industry source also told Deadline that Channel 4 will each year only commission a 'handful of high-end dramas', meaning opportunities for producers to 'win business' are 'limited'.

The insider argued the network 'failed to fully consider the optics' of commissioning The Couple Next Door and claims the 'feeling has been exacerbated by Channel 4s fragile relations with the production sector'.

The Couple Next Door premiered on Channel 4 last week and had an overnight audience of 1million viewers. Pictured: Sam Heughan (left) and Jessica De Gouw (right)

Mr Allison's tweet last month about the start of filming of the second series of Suspect - in which he spoke about the joy of having two projects commissioned

The Couple Next Door premiered on Channel 4 last week and had an overnight audience of 1million viewers.

The drama, a loose adaptation of the Dutch series New Neighbours, sees Evie (Eleanor Tomlinson) and her husband Pete (Alfred Enoch) become sexually entangled with their neighbours in a way that will change their lives for ever.

They meet neighbours, cop Danny (Sam Heughan), and his wife, glamorous yoga instructor Becka (Jessica De Gouw) when they move to an upscale neighbourhood.

But things only become increasingly complicated as time goes on.

Ms Hollick and Mr Allison are understood to have met while working at Yorkshire Television and currently live in Leeds, where the six-part thriller is set.

Mr Allison last month announced the start of filming of the second series of Suspect, tweeting: 'Fair to say my career of the last few years has been like waiting for a bus that never arrived...and then two came along.'
Rishi Sunak is facing a Tory pincer movement as he prepares to unveil emergency legislation on the Rwanda plan.

The PM is walking a tightrope between warring wings of his party over whether to waive human rights rules to get deportation flights running.

He is expected to try to fudge the issue with what is being described as a 'semi-skimmed' option - stopping short of exempting the policy from the jurisdiction of European courts.

But centrist MPs are threatening to revolt against the law - due to be published tomorrow - if it goes too far in watering down international commitments.

And right-wingers will be furious if he does not take tough action, warning that failure to get the Channel boats crisis under control will cost the Conservatives the election.

Touring broadcast studios this morning, policing minister Chris Philp said the legislation would appear within 'days' and will do 'whatever it takes to make sure that the Rwanda scheme is legally watertight and doesn't get unpicked by the courts'.

Rishi Sunak (pictured taking Cabinet yesterday) is facing a Tory pincer movement as he prepares to unveil emergency legislation on the Rwanda plan

Channel migrants are brought ashore in Kent over the weekend

Touring broadcast studios this morning, policing minister Chris Philp said the legislation would appear within 'days' and will do 'whatever it takes to make sure that the Rwanda scheme is legally watertight and doesn't get unpicked by the courts'

Tory moderates said last night that they have received 'assurances' the PM will not proceed with the most radical option for resolving the stand-off with the Supreme Court over the flagship Rwanda scheme.

Mr Sunak has been examining the so-called 'full-fat' plan that would carve out the Rwanda scheme from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), as advocated by many on the Tory Right.

Instead Mr Sunak is thought to be leaning towards a 'semi-skimmed' version of the legislation which could override the UK's Human Rights Act but not the ECHR. This could limit legal challenges but leave open a right of appeal to Strasbourg.

A 'skimmed' version of the deal would simply see Parliament declare that, in the light of the new treaty signed with Rwanda yesterday, the African nation is a safe country to send migrants.

Downing Street insisted 'no final decisions' had been made on the legislation, which could be published as soon as tomorrow.

A source insisted the final legislative package would be 'tough'. But a leading Tory moderate told the Mail No 10 had yesterday given private assurances that plans for setting aside the ECHR had been 'dropped'.

The former Cabinet minister said: 'There are people on the Right of the party shouting that we have to do this and the PM has flirted with it, but it is not necessary.

'It would not work and it now looks like it is not going to happen, which is a great relief and which makes it more likely we will actually get these flights going.'

Mr Sunak is understood to have been influenced by Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron, who ignored ECHR rulings on prisoner voting for years without leaving it.

The former prime minister told peers yesterday: 'There are occasions when the ECHR makes judgments as they did on the issue of prisoner votes when they said that it was absolutely essential that we legislated to give prisons the vote.

'And I said I didn't think that was the case, I think that should be settled by Houses of Parliament, and the ECHR backed down. So that sort of flexibility may well be necessary in the future.'

A Whitehall source said Mr Sunak was focused on what will work rather than 'crowd pleasing'.

Supporters of the 'full-fat' plan, who include former Home Secretary Suella Braverman, argue it is the only way to guarantee the scheme is not subject to further debilitating legal challenges and ensure the first deportation flights take off before the next election.

Home Secretary James Cleverly was in Rwanda yesterday to seal a new treaty with his counterpart Vincent Biruta

But opponents, said to include senior Cabinet ministers, have warned the plan would damage the country's international standing and put the Government on a collision course with judges who could block a new law, killing off hope of Rwanda flights next year.

Damian Green, who served as Theresa May's deputy, said overriding the ECHR would be 'the wrong thing to do' and make it 'pretty much impossible' to get the legislation through the House of Lords.

Mr Green said the Government should 'think twice' before trying to limit the application of the ECHR or the Human Rights Act.

Tory whips have warned as many as ten ministers could resign if the Government tries to override the ECHR, including Attorney General Victoria Prentis and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk.

But MPs on the Tory Right signalled they would continue to press for a 'full fat' option.

Dozens are said to be ready to back an amendment to the legislation on the ECHR if Mr Sunak drops the plan.

Mark Francois, of the European Research Group of Tory MPs, last night said the group's lawyers would look for 'unambiguous wording' in the new plan that will ensure deportation flights can take place next year before backing it.
Younger 'Generation Z' Brits are 'too worried' to go to war and are turning their backs on a career in the armed forces, a top General has warned.

General Sir Richard Barrons, who has fought in conflicts from the Balkans to Middle East, feared anxious 18 to 26-year-olds were being 'put off' by the rigours of military service, which 'doesn't sit comfortably' with their woke views.

Sir Richard, former Commander of Joint Forces Command, was speaking out as the military continues to struggle to find enough new troops to bolster its ranks, with the General fearing the current recruiting crisis had left the armed forces 'threadbare'.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Sir Richard, 64, said: 'We have arrived at this position where the armed forces are threadbare and this Gen Z that are nervous of soldiering.

'They are more worried about the danger of physical and emotional trauma than other generations appear to have been. Thats putting people off.

The number of people joining Britain's military has slumped (pictured is a file image of soldiers from the Royal Irish Regiment)

General Sir Richard Barrons, the former Commander of UK Joint Forces Command, feared young Briton's from Gen Z were 'too worried' to go to war

'The forces exist to either threaten or apply the use of force. Thats to kill people or destroy things. That doesnt sit comfortably with the zeitgeist of that particular demographic.'

The British Army has shrunk to its smallest size in about 200 years, while the RAF and Royal Navy are also struggling to find enough new recruits, with more people leaving the forces than those joining it.

Figures from the Ministry of Defence show the numbers joining the military dropped 16.9 per cent, with 2,130 fewer people enlisting than the previous year, with about 10,470 new recruits being hired in all.

But the numbers leaving the armed forces outstripped those coming in, with 16,460 having quit during the same period, an increase of six per cent on the year before.

The slump in recruits come amid fears war could spread, with Russia refusing to stop its invasion of Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East threatening to boil over, as Israel continues with its fight against the Hamas terror group in Gaza.

'We've arrived at a time when the world is becoming even more threatening. Russia is going to spend a third of its income on defence and is mobilising its society in preparation for what it sees as an existential conflict in the west,' Sir Richard said.

'It is very, very dangerous for the UK. For the armed forces to be at a low ebb just as the world becomes more demanding... is very dangerous.'

The comments come as conflicts continue to rage across the globe. Pictured is an Israeli bomb detonating during an attack in Gaza on Friday

Royal Marine commandos line up to storm a compound during a military exercise in Dorset

Russian despot Vladimir Putin last week announced ambitious plans to spend 30 per cent of the country's fiscal expenditure on rearming the nation's depleted military.

The hike by Moscow will mean spending on defence and security combined will reach around 40 per cent of all budget expenditure next year.

Meanwhile Britain's military is facing a staggering 16.9billion blackhole in its new equipment plan, piling more pressure on the MoD's overall budget, which is expected to see 68billion spent on defence in 2023-24.

In a damning review on Monday, watchdogs from the National Audit Office (NAO) said the MoD's 10-year programme until 2033 was unaffordable and the projected deficit the biggest since 2012, when the plan was first published.

It puts the estimated costs at 305.5billion against a budget of 288.6billion. Last's year 10-year estimate was under budget by 2.6billion.

Britain isn't the only one struggling with military woes; Nato allies Canada has also seen a dip in the number of people joining its navy, while in the US, Gen Z is being blamed for the slump in recruitment, as the US Army, US Navy and US Air Force all fell short of their targets.

Speaking of Gen Z, Sir Richard added: 'Many are not inclined to fight because they think its risky. But the biggest thing I cling onto is the hope that when Gen Z feel that their families, countries and communities are in real jeopardy they will  like so many other generations before them - respond to the call to arms if it came.'

In its Spring Budget, the British Government committed to spend an additional 5billion on defence and national security over the next two years.

As set out in the Integrated Review Refresh, the Governments aspiration over the longer term is to invest 2.5 per cent of GDP in defence.

The MoD said future recruitment was a 'top priority', with a spokesman saying: 'All three services continue to meet their front-line operational commitments.'
A former confidential informant for the US Drug Enforcement Administration pleaded guilty on Tuesday to conspiring to assassinate Haitian President Jovenel Moise, whose killing in 2021 caused unprecedented turmoil in the Caribbean nation.

Joseph Vincent, a dual Haitian-American citizen who lived in the US and attended meetings in South Florida and Haiti ahead of the assassination, is the fourth of 11 defendants in Miami to plead guilty.

He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison on charges including conspiracy to kill and kidnap a person outside the US and conspiracy to provide material support and resources.

According to authorities, about 20 Colombian citizens and several dual Haitian-American citizens participated in the plot.

The conspirators initially planned to kidnap the Haitian president but later opted to kill him. Investigators allege the plotters had hoped to win contracts under Moise's successor.

Haitian President Jovenel Moise, whose killing in 2021 caused unprecedented turmoil in the Caribbean nation

Joseph Vincent, a dual Haitian-American citizen who lived in the US and attended meetings in South Florida and Haiti ahead of the assassination, is the fourth of 11 defendants in Miami to plead guilty (File Photo)

A man runs past a burning barricade during a day of demonstrations, in Cap-Haitien, Haiti, on July 22, 2021

Vincent, wearing a prisoner's beige shirt and pants, pleaded guilty at a hearing before federal Judge Jose E. Martinez that lasted 20 minutes. Seated next to his attorney, Kenneth Swartz, he was handcuffed and had shackles on his ankles.

'Guilty, your honor,' Vincent responded after the judge asked him how he would plead.

Vincent said he had reached a plea agreement with the prosecutors, something defendants often do in hopes of receiving a lighter sentence.

Under the terms, he agreed to collaborate with the investigation, and the government said it would withdraw two accusations of conspiracy to commit offenses against the United States.

The judge set his sentencing hearing for February 9 next year.

The other defendants who have pleaded guilty are retired Colombian army officer German Alejandro Rivera Garcia, who was sentenced to life in prison in October; Haitian-Chilean businessman Rodolphe Jaar, who also was sentenced to life in prison in June; and former Haitian senator John Joel Joseph, who was detained in Jamaica before being extradited to Miami last year and is set to be sentenced on December 19.

They are all part of what US prosecutors have described as a conspiracy hatched in Haiti and Florida that ended with mercenaries gunning down Moise at his private home near the Haitian capital of Port-Au-Prince on July 7, 2021. He was 53.

Vincent was close to Haitian-American suspects James Solages and Christian Emmanuel Sanon, a South Florida resident and pastor whose ambition to replace Moise as president led to the assassination, according to charges filed by the prosecutors. Both were among the first arrested after Moise was shot 12 times at his home.

Police abandon their vehicle during a demonstration that turned violent in which protesters demanded justice for the assassinated President Jovenel Moise in Cap-Haitien, Haiti, on July 22, 2021

People take part in a day of protests while Haitians pay tribute to assassinated president Jovenel Moise, in Cap-Haitien, Haiti, on July 22, 2021

After the killing, Vincent maintained his innocence and told a Haitian judge that he was a translator for the Colombian soldiers accused of storming the president's residence and killing him.

More than 40 suspects have been arrested in the case in Haiti, most of them shortly after Moise was fatally shot in the attack that also injured his wife, Martine Moise.

Among those detained are 18 former Colombian soldiers accused of taking part in the plot and several high-ranking Haitian police officers.

In Haiti, five judges have been appointed to the case and four of them have stepped down for various reasons, including fear of being killed.

In the two years following the assassination, Haiti has experienced a surge in gang violence that led the prime minister to request the immediate deployment of a foreign armed force in October 2022.

The UN Security Council voted to send a multinational force led by Kenya to help fight gangs in October of this year.

The deployment has been delayed, however. Kenya has said its personnel needs more training and funding, and a local high court has extended orders blocking the deployment, with a hearing scheduled for late January. No deployment date has been announced.
The Met Office has issued a new weather warning map showing where rain and ice will hammer the county tomorrow, while a train line was cut off this morning from a landslide caused by heavy rain.

Parts of Scotland, including Edinburgh, have today been issued with a yellow weather warning for ice, to be followed by heavy rainfall tomorrow.

Flooding has already hit the southwest and midlands regions, with over 100 elderly people rescued overnight from a waterlogged caravan park in Somerset.

Heavy rain caused a landslip over the Crewkerne Tunnel, also in Somerset. As a result, trains between southwest England and London have been cancelled until Monday while the line undergoes essential repairs.

Severe weather warnings have been issued across the UK tomorrow as heavy rain is expected to continue falling on saturated ground.

Swans made the most of flooding in Worcester town centre this morning after the River Severn burst its banks

The landslip above Crewkerne Tunnel in Somerset has put a stop to all trains between Exeter and London until next Monday as the line undergoes repairs

A yellow weather warning for ice covers a large part of Scotland and north east England today, while Northern Ireland is blighted by rainfall

Tomorrow, the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain across swathes of England, Scotland, Wales, saying that people should expect travel disruption

Over one and a half inches (40mm) of rain could hit the southern Peak District tomorrow between 12pm to 8pm, with 10-20mm likely across much of the midlands.

A flood map from the Met Office shows the parts of the country where flood warnings have been issued

The Met Office has warned that journey times are likely to be made longer due to spray and flooding on roads, while bus and train services will probably be affected.

It is also likely that some homes and business will experience flooding as up to 80mm of rain falls in some parts of the west of the UK.

Neil Armstrong, chief forecaster at the Met Office, said: 'After a relatively calm day on Wednesday, wet and windy weather will move in from the west on Wednesday night.

'Low pressure will drive several days of unsettled conditions with heavy rainfall the main concern.

'We have issued a number of severe weather warnings for rain across the UK, as much as 80mm of rain could fall in some areas of the west, particularly higher ground.

'Higher ground in eastern Scotland could even see up to 100mm of rain. Our warnings are likely to be updated so keep up to date with the Met Office forecast.

'The rain will be falling on already very wet ground and where there is still lying snow in the north-west of England and parts of Scotland, snow melt will exacerbate the risk of flooding.

'It is important to check for flood warnings in your area issued by your local environment agency.'

Yellow weather warnings have been issued for Thursday in the South West and south Wales, the Midlands, parts of Northern England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Commuters brave the freezing fog in Richmond in southwest London this morning

It follows a brisk morning of cold weather today. There are dozens of flood warnings in place across England

A hardy walker enjoys the foggy conditions in Richmond Park, southwest London, this morning

Cyclists braved the brisk temperatures as they passed through Richmond Park this morning

Flooding along the River Severn in Worcester this morning at Browns at the Quay, along South Parade and Severn Way

The flooding in Worcester saw a bevy of swans make their first trip along the street this morning

Roads and car parks in York city centre were submerged after the river Ouse burst its banks

Flooding in York this morning, where the River Ouse has broken its banks - rising to 3.01m

A cyclist rides by the river Avon during a bright and frosty morning in St Nicholas' Park in Warwick

Temperatures hit minus 6 degrees at Great Longstone, Derbyshire, with the fields cloaked in frost

A deer crosses over a road in rural Derbyshire, where temperatures fell as low as -6C

The road between Derby and Nottingham was only accessible to a few but due to cars going through at the same time

A couple wade through the flood water in Risley, Derbyshire, well prepared in their wellies

It said: 'Check if your property could be at risk of flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.'

An interactive flood map from the Met Office shows the parts of the country where flood warnings have been issued.

The forecaster also issued warnings for Northern Ireland today and further yellow alerts in parts of south-west and eastern Scotland and large swathes of Wales on Thursday. Flooding is possible in the worst affected regions and some could face power cuts, it said.

It follows a brisk morning of cold weather today, with temperatures below freezing across much of the UK. Yellow weather warnings of ice are in place in Edinburgh and north east Scotland.

Flooding has been reported in the midlands today, with a bevy of swans spotted swimming along the submerged high street in Worcester after the River Severn burst its banks.

Elsewhere this morning, severe rain caused a landslip on a rail line above Crewkerne Tunnel in Somerset and major road closures which will see motorists and trains delayed until next week.

There are no trains in and out of Devon and Cornwall due to flooded train tracks.

Though many roads are now open and most services have returned to normal, the landslip above Crewkerne Tunnel in Somerset means Network Rail engineers must undergo repairs.

Motorists have also been informed a major Somerset road will be affected for days by problems caused by flash flooding.

National Highways set up a road closure on the A303 between the A3088 (Cartgate) and A359 (Sparkford).

Network Rail and South Western Rail (SWR) are urging customers not to attempt to travel between Salisbury and Exeter until Monday, December 11.

Matt Pocock, Network Rail Wessex route director, said: 'I would like to say how sorry we are for the disruption passengers are experiencing following a landslip at Crewkerne tunnel.

'We've experienced over 90mm of sustained heavy rain over the past 48 hours and this has resulted in movement in the earth on the cutting above the tunnel entrance which, if action isn't taken, could spill over onto the tracks and risk the safety of passenger services.'

Yesterday saw severe downpours in parts of the country, with reports of flooding in south west England. In one field, a rescue operation was mounted last night after caravans became flooded - forcing dozens of elderly residents to flee.

Drone pictures showed the aftermath of of the flooding at Primrose Hill Residential Park in Charlton Adam, Somerset.

Heavy rain caused a landslip above the Crewkerne Tunnel in Somerset, meaning Network Rail engineers must undergo repairs

Drone image this morning of the mass flooding of Primrose Hill Residential Park in Charlton Adam, Somerset

Dozens of elderly residents were forced to flee the caravan park last night after the field became flooded

Aerial images taken this morning after the rescues show water still engulfing around 30 caravans on the site

Bredy Lane at Burton Bradstock in Dorset was flooded this week as heavy persistent rain continues to fall

Trains were disrupted between Bristol Parkway and Taunton and Swindon this morning after parts of the track became flooded (Pictured: a flooded track beneath a rail arch in Somerset)

Cars were seen abandoned on Derby Road, Risley yesterday as motorists became stranded after attempted to travel through flood water

There were concerns for the welfare of around 100 residents with many of the caravans on site waterlogged and others had lost electricity and water supplies.

All the residents were checked over and many had to be extricated to dry land alongside their pets for further care and assistance.

Aerial images taken this morning after the rescues show water still engulfing around 30 caravans on the site.

Among the large number of search teams to be deployed to help in the rescue was Wiltshire Search and Rescue.

It is understood that water rescue specialists were initially alerted to the incident at around 9pm, with the peak of the flooding in the early hours of the morning overnight before levels began to drop.

The Environment Agency has 49 flood warnings - where flooding is expected - in place across England, mainly in Dorset, Somerset and across the Midlands.

There were a further 174 flood alerts, where flooding is considered possible.

Met Office spokeswoman Nicola Maxey, said: 'The low pressure system that brought yesterday's rain is pulling away across the near continent and things will turn a little drier today for many with the odd bright spell before the next system arrives from the west tomorrow.

'Tonight will be another cold night with a widespread frost expected.

'As we go through the morning heavy rain and strong winds will push across the country from the west, a number of National Severe Weather Warnings have been issued.'

Regarding the risk of further flooding tomorrow, RAC Breakdown spokesman Rod Dennis said: 'We expect to see a big jump in breakdowns tomorrow morning as vehicles with older, less reliable batteries fail in the cold weather.

'If drivers know their vehicle is sluggish to start, we recommend they book one of our mobile mechanics or take their car to a reputable garage as soon as possible.'
Joanna Parrish's parents walked out of a Paris court yesterday as the 'Ogress of the Ardennes' gave the first graphic account of her murder.

Previously unknown details revealed by Monique Olivier were so distressing that - after two terrible hours - Roger Parrish, 80, and his ex-wife Pauline Murrell, 75, could bear to listen no longer.

Patrick Proctor, the 20-year-old student's steady boyfriend when she was killed in 1993, and her aunt, Pauline Harris, 77, also left the room. They had heard Olivier admit that she acted as 'bait' to lure Joanna into the back of a van - 'it was like a game of chess' for her husband, serial killer and 'Ogre of the Ardennes' Michel Fourniret.

Olivier, who is on trial for her part in a kidnap and two murders, including that of Joanna, ignored the young woman's desperate screams as she tried to fend off the punches rained down by Fourniret. The family's torment was exacerbated when Olivier recalled how Fourniret, who had a perverse obsession with defiling virgins, grilled Joanna about her sex life.

'He asked her if she had a boyfriend,' she told the court. 'It must have annoyed him when she said she had, because (to him) it meant she was not a virgin. In sexuality he always wanted to be the first. That's why he was violent and did what he did.'

Roger Parrish, 80, and his former wife Pauline Murrell, 75, left the court room (both pictured)

Joanna Parrish (pictured) was grilled about her sex life by the 'Ogre of the Ardennes'  who had a perverse obsession for defiling virgins

Self-confessed serial killer Michel Fourniret arrives at the court hall in a police car, on March 28, 2008 at Charleville-Mezieres' courthouse

By refusing to attend the late morning session, the travelling Parrish contingent were spared from sitting through the most harrowing part of the proceedings.

READ MORE: Boyfriend of Ogre of Ardennes victim Joanna Parrish speaks for the first time of their relationship as he tells court his horror at learning what the killer did to the Brit during 1990 rape and murder Advertisement

It came when lawyer Didier Seban tried to prick Olivier's conscience by confronting her with photographs of Joanna. Projected on to a screen, the first images showed the carefree young woman enjoying a day out in Paris and posing demurely.

Thrust into Olivier's veiny, shaking hand, the second set reminded her how her victim looked after her bruised and bloated body had been fished from a river.

'Look at her. Do you recognise her?' asked Mr Seban contemptuously. 'What effect does that have on you? What do you say to that? What can I tell the parents of Joanna?'

It was the closest the stone-faced 75-year-old woman in the dock came to breaking. 'It's not possible,' she muttered, shaking her head.

'She was beautiful. She deserved to live. I truly regret it. Because of me she is gone. It's unforgivable.'

He voice trailed off as she added: 'If it had been my daughter, I think I would have done something. I would have looked for ' Olivier said Joanna eventually realised the van was travelling the wrong way and tried to open the doors. It was then that the attack started.

She claimed to remain haunted by the faces of all their victims, but said it was the smiling image of Joanna, as shown in court, that had 'marked' her most profoundly.

'I would prefer  not to have all these horrors in my mind,' she said.

Olivier was pregnant with their son when they killed their second known victim, Marie-Angele Domece, 18, whose body has never been found.

'You were going to give life to somebody,' remarked Mr Seban.

'Yes and I helped to take a life away,' she replied. 'It's monstrous what we did, but it's too late now.'

A 1992 photo of Monique Olivier, who fell in the arms of a serial killer with whom she struck a macabre pact: he would kill her first husband if she satisfied his lust for virgins

Monique Olivier (pictured in court on November 28) admitted she acted as 'bait' to lure Joanna into the back of a van, then ignored the young British woman's last desperate screams

Joanna (pictured in 1988) advertised her services as an English tutor in the paper and Fourniret phoned her up and set up a meeting

Another dramatic day began with Judge Didier Safar reminding Olivier, who cut a shambolic figure in a grubby sweatshirt, that relatives of Joanna and two other murdered girls had come to hear her 'explain yourself, free your conscience'.

Poking her prominent nose through a gap in the bulletproof screen to make herself heard, she at first frus- trated the court with mumbled replies and claims that she couldn't remember events 30 years ago.

Gradually, however, the full horrific story emerged. It became clear that Joanna fell into the ogre's clutches through catastrophic coincidences.

In May 1990, when she was coming to the end of a year-long teaching assignment in Auxerre, Fourniret and Olivier had already begun their husband-and-wife murder spree that claimed up to 35 lives. The couple had moved to the French Ardennes but returned that month to collect furniture from their former home in a village near Auxerre.

While they were on the trip, Olivier said sickeningly, Fourniret decided to 'have some fun'.

As was their habit, they cruised the streets for suitable targets. Fourniret would also scour newspapers and billboards for small ads placed by vulnerable girls, and by chance

Joanna had just advertised her services as an English tutor.

Pretending he wanted her to teach their son, Selim (then only 18 months old), he phoned her. A meeting was fixed for around 7pm in central Auxerre.

Joanna was so excited at the pros- pect that she had no hesitation in climbing into the back of the couple's white Citroen.

Fourniret later told police that - but for his wife's presence - Joanna would not have got into the vehicle and would still be alive.

Explaining her husband's maniacal compulsion, Olivier said: 'He told me it was like a cavalry charge in his head that forced him to go off hunting (virgins).'

Were you the dog who found his prey, Mr Seban asked her? 'Yes, if you want to put it like that,' she replied wretchedly.

Insisting she was acting under Fourniret's influence, she added: 'I deserve to be in prison because I helped him do all these terrible things. I should have done what I needed to do (to prevent the attack on Joanna). But I was scared of him and scared of what was happening. Fear and panic stopped me.'

Mr Seban snapped back: 'Don't tell us that you were the victim!'

Olivier (pictured in 2008) ignored Parrish's screams as she attempted to fend off the punches rained down by her husband, serial killer Michel Fourniret

A picture taken in 1990 of Joanna Parrish (L) and her brother Barney in Paris

Olivier said Fourniret had intended to kidnap Joanna and take her back to their home in the village. For some unknown reason, however, his plans changed. They drove around for about an hour seeking a quiet place, then he tied her up, raped her and strangled her before flinging her body in a river.

Denying equal culpability in the case of Joanna, Olivier, who is already serving life with a minimum of 28 years for four other murders, insisted: 'It was obedience - not pleasure.'

The court heard 35 young women and girls may have been killed even though the Ogre was convicted of only eight. He died in 2021, aged 79. The trial continues.
British-Danish businessman Sanjay Shah has been extradited by the UAE to Denmark, where he is wanted for allegedly orchestrating a tax fraud and money laundering scheme worth 1.44 billion.

Shah, 52, was arrested in Dubai last year at the request of Danish authorities, who accused him of exploiting Europe's tax systems for his personal benefit though his now-defunct hedge fund.

UAE state media said today: 'UAE authorities today extradited accused Sanjay Shah, a British national, to Denmark, where he is wanted by judicial authorities for cases of tax fraud and money laundering.

'Shah was extradited to Denmark's security mission, according to legal procedures, based on a decision by the Court of Cassation in Dubai and the resolution by the Minister of Justice, who approved the extradition.

Two Danish cops were seen escorting him to a grey Volkswagen van waiting for him on the runway of Kastrup Airport in Copenhagen, Denmark. He was wearing a white long-sleeve top and white jogging bottoms, as well as a dark hat and grey shoes.

Shah is accused of running the scheme between 2012 and 2015, and was arrested by Dubai police last year following a request by Danish authorities to extradite him over the alleged fraud that has dogged him for years.

Sanjay Shah, 52, (pictured) was arrested in Dubai last year at the request of Danish authorities, who accused him of exploiting Europe's tax systems for his personal benefit

The Danish Customs and Tax Authority (SKAT) wants to take back 1.44 billion from several defendants, including Shah and his hedge fund

Two Danish cops were seen escorting him to a grey Volkswagen van waiting for him on the runway of Kastrup Airport in Copenhagen

The Danish Customs and Tax Authority (SKAT) wants to take back 1.44 billion from several defendants, including Shah and his hedge fund, who it alleges made fraudulent applications for tax rebates in what are called 'Cum-ex' trades.

He has consistently denied wrongdoing.

'Cum-ex', Latin for 'with-without', schemes, which flourished following the 2008 financial crisis, involved trading shares rapidly around a syndicate of banks, investors and hedge funds to exploit the tax systems of countries such as Denmark, Germany and Belgium.

Cum-ex trades worked when an allegedly fraudulent network would lend each other shares in large companies, so that tax authorities believed there were two owners of each share.

Banks used in the stock trade would then issue a receipt that would 'confirm' dividend tax had been paid on the transaction.

Cum-ex trades saw allegedly fraudulent networks quickly trade these shares just before the payout date for the dividend, which would allow them to reclaim double the taxes.

It is estimated that cum-ex trades cost ten European countries over 55 billion euros (47 billion).

Shah's lifestyle on Dubai's luxurious palm-shaped island over the past few years has sparked outrage in Denmark.

During his time in Dubai, the hedge fund manager ran a centre for autistic children that shut down in 2020 as Denmark tried to extradite him.

He also oversaw a British-based charity, Autism Rocks, which raised funds through concerts and performances.

The trader previously had his 14.7 million Hyde Park mansion seized by Denmark after being accused of the fraud.

Between 2022 and early 2023, he was involved in drawn-out litigation over whether he should be extradited to Denmark from the UAE.

After the Court of Appeal in Dubai initially rejected an extradition request by Denmark in September 2022, it later overturned that decision in December

This was upheld in April, though a timeframe for his extradition was not given.

In a separate ruling in September 2022, Shah was ordered to pay 1 billion to Denmark's tax authority as part of a civil case in Dubai. His lawyers are also appealing against that ruling.

Last month, Shah lost a final bid to block Denmark's tax authority from pursuing him and others in London over the alleged offences, in a ruling by the UK Supreme Court that cleared the way for a year-long civil trial to begin next April.

Investigations led by Germany and Denmark have triggered bank raids, arrests and prosecutions from some of the world's most prestigious legal and financial institutions.

In 2018, Ulf Johannemann, a former managing partner at elite law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer was arrested and charged for allowing a client to reclaim 383 million in tax that was never paid.

A senior judge in Germany said this week that former Magic Circle lawyer Johannemann is 'highly likely' of being found guilty of this.

Denmark has charged nine British and US citizens over the schemes, which it says have cost it more than 12.7 billion Danish crowns.

MailOnline has reached out to Shah's lawyers in the UAE for comment.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blasted women's rights groups and world leaders for not 'screaming' about the rape and mutilation of Israeli civilians by Hamas - while hinting their silence was because the victims are Jewish women.

Harrowing details have emerged of the atrocities committed by Hamas on October 7, with eyewitnesses detailing how Israeli women were gang raped and mutilated before being shot dead.

'I heard heartbreaking stories of abuse,' a visibly emotional Netanyahu said last night. 'I heard, as you heard, about sexual abuse and unprecedented cases of brutal rape.'

But Netanyahu said that despite the emergence of harrowing evidence of torture and gang rape committed by Hamas terrorists, women's rights groups and world leaders have remained silent while hinting this is due to anti-semitism.

'Were you silent because it was Jewish women?' Netanyahu asked in Hebrew.

Switching to English, a seething Netanyahu said: 'I say to the women's rights organizations, to the human rights organizations, you've heard of the rape of Israeli women, horrible atrocities, sexual mutilation - where the hell are you?

'I expect all civilized leaders, governments and nations to speak up against this atrocity,' he added.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blasted women's rights groups and world leaders for not 'screaming' about the rape and mutilation of Israeli civilians by Hamas - while hinting their silence was because the victims are Jewish women

One eyewitness, who was at the festival, spoke of how a woman was gang raped before she was mutilated

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden called the reports of sexual violence 'appalling' and urged the world to condemn 'horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty.'

Shortly after Netanyahu's passionate address, UNICEF's Executive Director Catherine Russell said: 'The accounts of sexual violence on 7 October in Israel are horrific.

'Survivors must be heard, supported and provided with care. Allegations must be fully investigated.'

Russell, who did not mention Hamas terrorists in her statement, added: 'We condemn gender-based violence and all forms of violence against women and girls.'

It comes as survivors of the deadly October 7 attack on the Nova Festival recounted how Hamas terrorists gang raped, tortured and mutilated Israeli women and men.

One witness has told Israeli police that they saw a woman mutilated by Hamas gunmen before a terrorist shot her in the head during a gang rape.

Others have described hearing the screams of women as they were attacked, as well as seeing the gunmen cut off their breasts and toss them to the side of the road.

Several people involved in the collecting and identifying of the bodies found in the aftermath have also recounted harrowing evidence of torture and murder to officials, describing how festivalgoers' genitals were shot at, and how elsewhere they found victims murdered in their homes, their genitals mutilated with knives.

A combat paramedic said he saw the body of a young woman with her legs open, her pants pulled down, and what looked like semen on her lower back. An army reservist who was tasked with identifying those killed by the terrorists said some of the women were found wearing only bloodied underwear.

While few victims of the atrocities are thought to have survived the attack, a selection of these recorded eyewitness accounts have been released by Israeli police, and seen by several news organisations.

The horrific accounts show that rape and sexual assault was part of an atrocities-filled rampage by Hamas who killed 1,200 Israeli civilians as they screamed and begged for their lives.

With the release of the testimonies, Israel is calling on the international community to recognise Hamas's October 7 attack as a crime against humanity, with one senior official investigating sexual violence saying the terrorists came across the border from Gaza with a 'clear order' to use 'rape as genocide.'

One woman at the horrific scene said: 'There was one body of a woman that had a blood stain on her genitals, at first I thought she might have had a mishap out of fear. When we picked her up we knew for sure that it was blood.'

Another told officers in a recorded clip: 'Mainly there were a lot of gunshot wounds, also targeted shooting in the male genital area and we saw that a lot. They had a thing with sexual organs, both for women and men.

'The women we received, they were civilians, we mainly saw either breast amputation or shooting just to the breast, simply shooting from one side of the breast to the other.

'They were conscious when they got to us. For the men it was their genitalia, shooting genitals, they had a thing with that, or amputation.'

Israeli soldiers console each other next to the pictures of the Nova music festival victims at the site of the festival near Kibbutz Reim on 1 December

Survivors of the Nova Festival massacre have recounted the horrors of the October 7 attack to Israeli police. Pictured: Festivalgoers fleeing the party as Hamas launched its attack

Other witnesses gave harrowing testimonies, recalling seeing women and men having their genitals shot at by Hamas terrorists

Footage showed of a Hamas terrorist launching fire on festivalgoers on October 7

In one of the horrific statements recorded on video, a witness known only as Witness S described seeing a female victim being passed from one attacker to another as they raped her, while she 'bled from her back'.

The terror group went on to 'cut her breasts' before 'throwing it onto the road' and 'playing with it', the witness recalled.

She continues to say the victim was passed to another man in uniform.

'He penetrated her, and shot her in the head before he finished,' she said, according to the BBC who saw the video testimony. 'He didn't even pick up his pants; he shoots and ejaculates.'

The woman in the video described watching the militants as she pretended to be dead. 'I couldn't understand what I saw,' she said.

Another man who was at the festival as the bloody incursion unfolded, told the BBC he could hear the 'noises and screams of people being murdered, raped, decapitated'.

When asked by the broadcaster how he could be sure that the screams he heard indicated a sexual assault, he said he believed when listening at the time that the shouts could only have been as a result of rape.

In a statement the same man made through a support organisation, he described the attack carried out by the Hamas terror group as 'inhuman'.

'Some women were raped before they were dead, some raped while injured, and some were already dead when the terrorists raped their lifeless bodies,' his statement says. 'I desperately wanted to help, but there was nothing I could do.'

Another witness, Ron Freger, fled the music festival when Hamas attacked and said he heard women screaming for help.

'I was lying in a pit and I hard a girl yelling 'they're raping me, they're raping me', he told Associated Press.

Several minutes later, he heard gunshots close by and she fell silent, he said.

'The feeling in that moment is one of complete powerlessness. I'm lying in this hole and I have no ability to do anything,' the 23-year-old explained.

'I have no weapon, I have nothing, I'm surrounded by other people who are hiding with me and we're completely powerless.'

Two months after the Hamas attacks on the music festival, farming communities and army posts across southern Israel and close to Gaza, police are still struggling to put together the pieces.

In the immediate aftermath of the attack, priority was given to identifying bodies and not preserving evidence, making the investigation more challenging.

Now Israeli police say they are combing through 60,000 videos seized from the body cameras of Hamas gunmen. Footage from social media and security cameras will also be looked at in a bid to bring the perpetrators to justice. It has been hard to find rape survivors, however, as many were killed by their attackers.

But police say they not have 'multiple' eye-witness accounts of sexual assault.

They have not said exactly how many, and are yet to interview any of the surviving victims of the attacks.
Elon Musk has taken a swipe at underfire Harvard president Claudine Gay as he offered to help her out on campus antisemitism.

Musk posted on X, formerly Twitter: 'Let me help them out here: "Calling for the genocide [death] of anyone obviously constitutes harassment."'

He was commenting on a post from billionaire Harvard donor and alumnus Bill Ackman, who has demanded Gay to resign after she refused to say that calling for the genocide of Jews was harassment.

Ackman's post was accompanied by a video of Gay being grilled by Elise Stefanik, the chair of the House Republican Conference, on Tuesday.

Ackman, a hedge fund manager who in 2014 gave $26 million to the university, said on Tuesday he was outraged by Gay's performance.

Musk posted on X, formerly Twitter : 'Let me help them out here: "Calling for the genocide [death] of anyone obviously constitutes harassment"'

Claudine Gay, president of Harvard, is seen on Tuesday appearing before the House education committee to discuss antisemitism

Elizabeth Magill, president of the University of Pennsylvania (left), and Sally Kornbluth, president of MIT (right) also testified on Tuesday

Let me help them out here: Calling for the genocide [death] of anyone obviously constitutes harassment. https://t.co/GH7lXLxxd6  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 6, 2023

Ackman, who is Jewish, accused her of 'profound moral bankruptcy' and said she and other university presidents who spoke at a Congressional hearing on Tuesday must 'resign in disgrace'.

Gay was called to testify before the House education committee, along with the president of the University of Pennsylvania, Elizabeth Magill, and the president of MIT, Sally Kornbluth, who is Jewish.

All three women were pressed by Stefanik over their actions to stamp out antisemitism on their campuses.

The three universities have been roiled by a series of pro-Palestine marches on their campuses in the wake of the October 7 attack, with students blaming Israel for Hamas's terrorist outrage, and saying the country deserved it.

Some academics have expressed rabidly anti-Israel opinions, and threats have been made against Jewish students on campus.

All three presidents have admitted they were slow to distance themselves from student groups justifying the October 7 massacres.

But they insisted that they wanted to preserve an environment of free speech - and refused, to Stefanik's fury, to give a 'yes or no' answer to questions about condemning certain rhetoric.

'I am asking, specifically calling for the genocide of Jews, does that constitute bullying or harassment?' asked Stefanik.

Gay told her that it depended on the context.

Stefanik responded that it was 'the easiest question', then answered for them: 'The answer is yes.'

Stefanik pressed Gay over whether Harvard would punish students or applicants who advocate for the murder of Jews.

Elise Stefanik, a Republican representing New York, grilled the three university presidents on Tuesday

Presidents of @Harvard @MIT and @Penn REFUSE to say whether calling for the genocide of Jews is bullying and harassment according to their codes of conduct. Even going so far to say it needs to turn to action first. As in committing genocide.



THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE AND pic.twitter.com/hUY3SgoOOi  Rep. Elise Stefanik (@RepStefanik) December 5, 2023

Gay replied: 'That type of hateful, reckless, offensive speech is personally abhorrent to me.'

She said the university had 'robust policies' that hold individuals accountable when speech crosses into conduct, such as bullying, harassment or intimidation.

'We embrace a commitment to free expression and give a wide berth to free expression even to views that are objectionable, outrageous and offensive,' Gay said.

At one point, Gay said: 'I've sought to confront hate while preserving free expression. This is difficult work, and I know that I have not always gotten it right.'

But Stefanik said their answers were 'unacceptable', and demanded all three resign.

Ackman said he was horrified by the testimony.

Bill Ackman, who is worth $3.5billion and completed his BA and MBA at Harvard University, blamed Gay for the 'blatant' newfound antisemitism, saying the hatred is caused by 'your actions, and inactions'

Palestinian supporters gathered at Harvard University to show their support for Gaza, and their hatred for Israel, at a rally in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on October 14

Harvard's Palestine Solidarity Committee triggered fury by writing - on October 7 - that Israel was 'entirely responsible for all unfolding violence.' President Claudine Gay has been heavily criticized for failing to appropriately condemn the students who backed the statement

'This could be the most extraordinary testimony ever elicited in the Congress, certainly on the topic of genocide,' he wrote on X.

'The presidents' answers reflect the profound educational, moral and ethical failures that pervade certain of our elite educational institutions due in large part to their failed leadership.'

He said that the trio's answers would be unacceptable in the business world.

'If a CEO of one of our companies gave a similar answer, he or she would be toast within the hour,' he said.

'Why has antisemitism exploded on campus and around the world?

'Because of leaders like Presidents Gay, Magill and Kornbluth who believe genocide depends on the context.

'To think that these are the leaders of Ivy League institutions that are charged with the responsibility to educate our best and brightest.'

His criticism of Gay comes just days after the billionaire posted an open letter on X accusing Harvard of discriminating against 'straight white men' and railing against the university's equity and inclusion efforts.

The Jewish student organization, Harvard Hillel, said that Gay's 'refusal' to 'draw a line' on threatening antisemitic speech is 'profoundly shocking.'

Harvard Hillel said that they questioned the president's 'ability to protect Jewish students on Harvard's campus.'

'We are appalled by the need to state the obvious: A call for genocide against Jews is always a hateful incitement of violence. President Gay's failure to properly condemn this speech calls into question her ability to protect Jewish students on Harvard's campus,' Harvard Hillel said.

'Chants to "globalize the intifada," an endorsement of violent terrorist attacks against Jewish and Israeli civilians, and "from the river to the sea," an eliminationist slogan intended to deprive Jews of their right to self-determination in Israel, have become tragically routine at Harvard.'

Newly surfaced video shows a confrontation at a recent demonstration on Harvard University's campus, where pro-Palestinian protesters surrounded a student chanting 'shame'

Protesters encircle a man (with arms up), moving through the yard during the October 18 protest at Harvard University, holding up keffiyehs (scarfs) before he slips into a nearby building

Magill, the UPenn president, was questioned over her school's participation in a 'Palestine Writes Festival' in September.

A complaint filed with the Education Department against Penn cites the festival as a catalyst for antisemitic incidents on campus. Speakers included several with a history of making antisemitic remarks, such as Pink Floyd's Roger Waters.

She said antisemitic speech at the event was 'abhorrent' to her and that the institution put safety precautions into place.

'Why in the world would you host someone like that on your campus?' asked Jim Banks, a Republican congressman for Indiana.

'Antisemitism has no place at Penn,' Magill began to answer.

Banks interrupted, and asked: 'Why did you invite Roger Waters?'

She concluded: 'I think canceling that conference would have been very inconsistent with academic freedom and free expression despite the fact that the views of some of the people who came to that conference I find very, very objectionable because of their antisemitism.'
Kim Jong Un surprised the world with his unusually emotional display in front of North Korean mothers this weekend - but it has now emerged he still managed to show a hint of the execution-loving dictator he is better known as.

Kim cried as he called on women to have more children at a mothers' conference in Pyongyang, saying it was their duty to revive the country's stagnant birth rate in order to strengthen national power.

But a transcript of his speech shows he also urged parents to 'flog' their children and instruct them towards jobs in the army or hard labour.

'With their inborn true feelings of flogging their kids with tears in their eyes to bring them up as honest persons, mothers should have no hesitation in making their beloved children work in the difficult and labour-consuming posts and work places,' he said.

'It will be mothers' greatest pleasure to see their children growing up as pillars of the country while realising in the struggle and life how precious our party and social system are,' he added.

North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un cried as he called on women to have more children (pictured on Sunday night)

In his seemingly highly-choreographed emotional plea, the authoritarian leader was seen dabbing his eyes with a handkerchief while addressing thousands of women gathered at a National Mothers Meeting in Pyongyang on Sunday

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un greets supporters at the 5th National Meeting of Mothers in Pyongyang in this picture released by the Korean Central News Agency on December 5, 2023

Many women in the audience (pictured) openly wept along with their leader at the event, the first of its kind held in 11 years and put on amid a fall in the isolationist state's birth rate

Images shared by state media showed a hall full of women in brightly-coloured clothing at the two-day Fifth National Congress of Mothers in the capital. Kim was seen overwhelmed with emotion as he ran through an elaborate speech that made rare reference to social and demographic problems within the hermit kingdom.

'Stopping the decline in birthrates and providing good childcare and education are [matters] that we should solve together with our mothers,' he said. 'When all mothers clearly understand that it is patriotism to give birth to many children and do so positively, our cause of building a powerful socialist country can be hastened faster'.

In a seemingly highly choreographed emotional plea, the authoritarian leader was seen dabbing his eyes with a handkerchief while addressing thousands of women gathered at a National Mothers' Meeting in Pyongyang on Sunday.

'Preventing a decline in birth rates and good childcare are all of our housekeeping duties we need to handle while working with mothers,' Kim said at the event, while also urging them to instil the values of his communist party in their children.

Many in the large audience openly wept along with their leader.

But it wasn't all a sombre affair. Pictures released by North Korea's state media also showed the adoring crowd clapping and cheering Kim as he waved back from his seat, flanked by male officials in suits and military uniform.

The event - the first National Mothers' Meeting in 11 years - was put on amid a fall in the isolationist state's birth rate, which has evidently prompted concern among the DPRK's (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) top officials.

Addressing the audience as 'Dear Mothers', Kim told them 'we are confronted with a host of social tasks that our mothers should join to tackle'.

'These tasks,' he said, 'include bringing up their children so that they will steadfastly carry forward our revolution, eliminating the recently-increasing non-socialist practices, promoting family harmony and social unity, establishing a sound way of cultural and moral life, making the communist virtues and traits of helping and leading one another forward prevail over our society, stopping the declining birth rate, and taking good care of children and educating them effectively.

'These belong to our common family affairs, which we need to deal with by joining hands with our mothers,' he added.

He went on to say that 'in view of our mothers' position and role in their families and society', his government viewed the meeting of mothers as 'no less important than a party congress or a plenary meeting of the Party Central Committee.'

Women seen in brightly-coloured clothing cry during Kim Jong Un's speech

Getting a detailed idea of North Korea's population trends is extremely difficult because of the limited statistics it discloses.

The last census North Korea released was in 2008, which showed its population stood at 24 million. Estimates now suggest 25.7 million people inhabit the country.

However, South Korea's government assesses that the North's fertility rate has declined steadily for the past 10 years.

That is a concerning development for the socialist country that depends on mobilised labour to help keep its broken, heavily sanctioned economy afloat.

It also follows a 'military first' approach which prioritises the Korean People's Army when it comes to the allocation of resources.

It is the country with the highest number of military and paramilitary personnel per capita, and its active-duty army of 1.28 million soldiers is the fourth largest in the world, despite having the world's 56th largest population.

According to South Korea's government statistics agency, North Korea's total fertility rate, or the average number of babies expected to be born to a woman over her lifetime, was 1.79 in 2022, down from 1.88 in 2014.

Even the figures released by North Korea itself in 2008 suggested a slow-down in population growth, which otherwise had risen fairly consistently since a drop caused by the Korean War in the early 1950s.

Between 1993 and 2008, the country reported a per-annum growth rate of 0.84 per cent. Between 1963 and 1993, that figure had been 2.04 per cent.

However, the earlier figure does not paint the full picture, with the average number of children born to women in North Korea decreasing from 6.5 in 1966 to 2.5 in 1988.

This was put down to women marrying later, urbanisation, limited housing space in the country and the expectation for women to work - all factors that analysts say have contributed to lower birth rates in other countries.

But the decrease in fertility since the 1990s has also been caused by famine, as well as a post-war push to slow population growth in the 1970s and 80s.

According to South Korea's government statistics agency, North Korea's total fertility rate, or the average number of babies expected to be born to a woman over her lifetime, was 1.79 in 2022, down from 1.88 in 2014 - a trend clearly concerning Kim Jong Un and his government

Kim Jon Un shakes the hands of women at the National Mothers Meeting in Pyongyang on Sunday - the first time the event has been held in 11 years

The fall in birth rate is a concerning development for a country that depends on mobilised labour to help keep its broken, heavily sanctioned economy afloat

Kim's comments on Sunday would not be the first time the DPRK has promoted population growth, with officials within the country understood to perceive its population as being too small in relation to South Korea's 51 million people.

In the 1980s, one Korean American scholar who visited the country reported an absence of birth control policies, and said North Korean women were being encouraged to have as many as six children.

Meanwhile, the state is understood to provide nurseries to ease the burden of raising children, and offers 77 days of paid leave after childbirth.

While North Korea is one of the poorest nations in the world, the recent estimated change in its demographic structure is similar to that of rich countries, some observers say.

'Many families in North Korea also don't intend to have more than one child these days as they know they need lots of money to raise their kids, send them to school and help them get jobs,' said Ahn Kyung-su, head of DPRKHealth.org, a website focusing on health issues in North Korea.

Ahn, who has interviewed many North Korean defectors, said the smuggling in over the past 20 years of a vast amount of South Korean TV dramas and films showing an elevated social status for women is also likely to have influenced women in North Korea not to have many children.

North Korea implemented birth control programmes in the 1970-80s to slow a post-war growth in population.

And the country's fertility rate recorded a major decline following a famine in the mid-1990s that was estimated to have killed hundreds of thousands of people, the Seoul-based Hyundai Research Institute said in a report in August.

'Given North Korea lacks resources and technological advancements, it could face difficulties to revive and develop its manufacturing industry if sufficient labour forces are not provided,' the institute report said.

According to North Korean state media reports this year, the country has introduced a set of benefits for families with three or more children, including preferential free housing arrangements, state subsidies, free food, medicine and household goods and educational perks for children.

South Korea's statistics agency estimates the North's population at 25.7 million.

The Hyundai institute report said that North Korea is expected to see a shrink in population from 2034.

It forecast its population will decrease to 23.7 million by 2070.

Ahn, of DPRKHealth.org, said Kim's repeated public appearances with his young daughter, Ju Ae, are probably part of efforts to encourage families.

Other experts have said her appearances - which include her presence at missile tests - are more likely an attempt to show she is her father's heir.

North Korea's population is forecast to fall by around 2 million people by 2070

North Korean women attend the National Mothers' Meeting in Pyongyang

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said it is a duty of women to stop a fall in the country's birth rate to strengthen national power. Pictured: North Korean children

While figures clearly have North Korean officials concerned, the fertility rate remains higher than in some of North Korea's neighbours, which have been grappling with a similar downward trend.

For example, the decline is still slower than its wealthier rival South Korea, whose fertility rate last year was 0.78, down from 1.20 in 2014.

South Korea's fertility rate, the lowest in the developed world, is believed to be due to a potent cocktail of reasons discouraging people from having babies.

These include a decaying job market, a brutally competitive school environment for children, traditionally weak childcare assistance, and a male-centred corporate culture where many women find it impossible to combine careers and family.
Omid Scobie has insisted that Endgame was 'written at lighting' speed - despite the author having first promoted his controversial book about the Royal Family more than a year before it was published.

Scobie has come under fire after a Dutch translation of the book appeared to accuse King Charles and the Princess of Wales of racism after Meghan Markle claimed that 'concerns' had been raised about the skin colour of her son Archie in her bombshell Oprah interview in 2021.

MailOnline last week revealed how a Dutch translator insisted that she had been sent a manuscript which named the two senior royals. The Times later reported that Scobie's British publisher had sent a draft copy to the Dutch translator which contained the names.

Scobie has now insisted that he wrote his book 'at lighting speed' - despite first announcing in July last year that he was 'working on a brand new book' about the Royal Family. Several months later, in December last year, he announced the books' title, Endgame.

It comes after the Royal Family last night put on a united front amid the fallout from Scobie's race row by attending the Buckingham Palace Christmas Diplomatic Reception.

The King is expected to consult with his son Prince William this week to discuss the controversy, with Palace officials understood to be 'considering all options' including legal action.

The Sussexes have not commented publicly on the row, but a source close to Meghan denied leaking the names to Scobie.

Omid Scobie (pictured) has insisted that his controversial book accusing members of the Royal Family of racism was 'written at lightning speed' - despite having announced it last year

Queen Camilla, King Charles III, Prince William and Princess Kate are pictured at Buckingham Palace yesterday. The senior royals put on a united front last night amid fallout from race row sparked by the Dutch translation of Scobie's book

A copy of Omid Scobie's Endgame is seen on display inside a book store in London last week. The author admitted 'insane translation times' in the book's acknowledgements and has claimed that we wrote it at 'lightening speed'

Harry and Meghan are pictured at the Invictus Games in Duesseldorf, Germany in September this year. The couple have not commented publicly on the race row but a source close to Meghan said 'it was not leaked to Mr Scobie by anyone in her camp'

Omid Scobie began writing Endgame in at least July last year when he took to X, formerly Twitter, to 'finally share that I'm working on a brand new book'

Scobie has refused to apologise to Charles and Kate for the embarrassing mishap which resulted in the explosive book being hooked from the shelves in the Netherlands.

The under-fire author has shrugged off criticism claiming the names were 'known for a long time' and instead put the blame at the Dutch publisher's door.

The author has said in interviews last week that he wondered why the Sussexes did not continue the discussion after Meghan accused an unnamed royal of expressing 'concern' about her future son Archie's skin colour in her Oprah Winfrey chat in 2021.

He told how the row 'disappeared out of sight', despite the couple having a chance to say more about it in their Netflix documentary and Harry's memoir Spare.

Scobie has been widely described as Meghan's mouthpiece  but neither she nor Prince Harry has so far spoken up in defence of the royals over highly damaging accusations of racism.

The fallout from the book could have serious consequences for Harry and Meghan as William is believed to 'want action'.

Determinedly, the Royal Family has adopted a 'business as usual' stance, but the possibility of legal action remains. The final decision on the next step rests with Charles, who, according to sources, will not act hastily.

A Palace source has said: 'Most right-thinking people would expect an apology  who wouldn't?

'Being falsely branded a racist in print is a serious allegation that must be treated seriously. All options are still on the table.'

Sources close to the Sussexes have attempted to distance the couple from the book. They say Meghan never intended the King or Princess of Wales to be publicly identified in the race row and say the letter was not leaked to Scobie by anyone close to her.

William is said to 'want action' after his wife Kate was named alongside Charles as the two Royals identified by Meghan in a private letter to the King, which claimed 'concern' was expressed about her future son's skin colour. Pictured: Harry and Meghan with Archie in 2019

The original 'racism' claim was made in the Sussexes' infamous March 2021 Oprah Winfrey interview (pictured)

Pictured: Harry and Meghan with Archie after his Christening and (left to right) Camilla, King Charles, Ms Doria Ragland, Lady Jane Fellowes, Lady Sarah McCorquodale, The Duke of Cambridge and The Duchess of Cambridge in the Green Drawing Room at Windsor Castle

Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, joined by her mother Doria Ragland, show their new son Archie to Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip at Windsor Castle in 2019

Meanwhile, Harry and Meghan are facing a mounting backlash as they continue to maintain their silence on the royal racism claims.

Conservative MP Bob Seely is putting forward a Bill that could deny the Sussexes their Duke and Duchess titles in wake of the row.

EXCLUSIVE READ MORE - Meghan Markle is pictured smiling in first sighting since royals accused of racism were named in Dutch translation of Omid Scobie's book Advertisement

Writing in The Mail on Sunday, he said that he felt compelled to act because of the 'use of race to smear the Royal Family'  and proposes to revive First World War laws that could pave the way to making the couple plain Mr and Mrs Sussex.

The Isle of Wight MP wants to adapt laws originally passed to deny enemy German nobles their British titles.

Mr Seely said he had to act because of the attempt to use race to smear the Royal Family, which he called 'poisonously insidious'.

He is applying for his Titles Deprivation 1917 Amendment Bill to be listed on the Commons' Order Paper next week. It would resurrect the wartime powers by removing references to 'enemies' and 'present war'.

He has cleared the wording with Parliament's Table Office, which oversees draft legislation.

Similarly, it has emerged that the Sussexes will not be attending the Duke of Westminster's wedding, despite Hugh Grosvenor being one of Harry's closest friends and godfather to his son Archie.

Harry and Meghan's absence from the guestlist for the high society nuptials at Chester Cathedral has attracted significant interest.

The Princess of Wales looked naturally charismatic as she entertained guests at Buckingham Palace in London last night

Charles appeared cheerful as he greeted guests with a handshake at the glittering occasion

Kate was all smiles as she attended last night's glitzy event with her husband Prince William

Pictured: Kate, William, Harry and Meghan on the Long Walk at Windsor Castle arrive to view flowers and tributes to HM Queen Elizabeth II on September 10, 2022

Grosvenor, who invited the Prince and Princess of Wales, was said to have wanted to invite the Sussexes too but decided against it to avoid clashes on his big day amid soaring tensions following the release of Omid Scobie's new book.

He was also believed to be mindful of a row that complicated his sister's wedding at the same venue in 2004, when Camilla Parker Bowles was invited but told to sit away from Prince Charles to avoid the Queen seeing them together.

But now a different account has emerged in Page Six, with an insider claiming that Harry had been sent a 'save the date' for the wedding only for the prince to phone Grosvenor and tell him it would be 'too awkward' for him and Meghan to attend.

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'Harry actually got a ''save the date'' card a few months ago but called Hugh and said it would be too awkward if he and Meghan Markle attended, so he made his apologies and Hugh understood,' the Sussex insider was quoted as saying.

MailOnline has approached both the Sussexes and Duke of Westminster for comment.

Grosvenor, 32, is to marry Olivia Henson, 30, at Chester Cathedral on June 7. The King, Queen, Prince and Princess of Wales and Prince George, who is the Duke's godson, are all invited.

The Daily Mail revealed on Monday that - when putting together the guest list - Grosvenor was mindful of a royal row that complicated his sister's ceremony at the same venue.

'Hugh knows how sensitive wedding invitations can be,' a friend of the family said.

Camilla Parker Bowles was invited to his sister Lady Tamara Grosvenor's wedding but was told that she would not be permitted to sit with Prince Charles and would have to sit several rows back.

She would also have to arrive separately. This was because Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip were due to attend the ceremony.

A Buckingham Palace courtier was quoted as saying at the time: 'It may provoke comment on the day, but Her Majesty will also be attending and she is a stickler for protocol.

'A pew will be set aside for the members of the Royal Family attending, and it would be inappropriate for Mrs Parker Bowles to sit beside Prince Charles since she has no official standing.

It was reported that Hugh Grosvenor decided not to invite the Sussexes to his wedding to Olivia Henson next June in a bid to avoid 'drama' and so that the row between Harry and William wouldn't overshadow his big day. Pictured: Hugh and Olivia in April this year

Hugh Grosvenor attends the wedding of Prince Harry to Meghan Markle with Charlie van Straubenzee at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle on May 19, 2018

The Sunday Times understands that the Duke wanted to invite Harry and Meghan but eventually decided against it as he feared the tension it would cause with the other Royals who have been invited - including the King and Queen

'Even for Mrs Parker Bowles to arrive with the Prince at the event, in the presence of the Queen, would be to confer rights and status upon her that she simply does not have.'

Grosvenor is worried about anything 'overshadowing' the day, a friend of Harry and William said on Sunday.

'Hugh is one of very few close friends of William and Harry's who has maintained strong bonds and a line of communication with both,' the friend told the Times.

'He wishes they could put their heads together and patch things up, but realises it's unlikely to happen before the wedding. He wanted to avoid anything overshadowing the day, especially for Olivia, and doesn't want any awkwardness.'

A spokesman for the Duke said: 'We are not in a position to comment on the guest list.' Buckingham Palace also declined to comment.
A mother who gave birth in a train toilet before hacking her baby son to death with a pair of scissors has been jailed for three years by judges in Russia.

Judges in Moscow heard how the healthy boy had been stabbed 44 times just moments after his birth.

The 25-year-old, not named in local media, carried out the brutal slaying on a Lastochka intercity electric train, widely used across Russia.

Local media reported that the baby's body was found between Andronovka Station and Nizhegorodskaya Station, both of which lie in the west of Moscow.

An investigation revealed she stuffed 'a bundle of paper' into the baby's mouth 'which prevented his free breathing.'

The 25-year-old, not named in local media, (pictured) carried out the brutal slaying on a Lastochka intercity electric train

Local media reported that the baby's body was found between Andronovka Station and Nizhegorodskaya Station, both of which lie in the west of Moscow

The footage shows the mother telling the police how she carried out the killing.

Further footage shows her in Moscow's Lefortovo Court during her trial.

She was found guilty of murdering her newborn boy eight months ago, in April.

Judges said they were taking into account the mother's emotional state when they sentenced her to three years behind bars.

Prosecutors said the judges were 'taking into account the gravity of the crime committed, as well as the personality of the defendant'.

Forensic medics told the court that the baby had been born perfectly healthy but died after he was stabbed 44 times.

The Moscow Interregional Transport Prosecutor's Office said in a statement on 1st December: 'The Lefortovo District Court of Moscow sentenced a woman for killing a newborn on an electric train.

'She was found guilty of committing a crime under Art. 106 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (murder of a newborn child by a mother).

'The court found that the 25-year-old woman, being pregnant, while in an electric train travelling along the Moscow Central Circle, independently gave birth to a viable child.

'Deciding to kill the newborn, she stabbed him 44 times.

'Taking into account the gravity of the crime committed, as well as the personality of the defendant, the court sentenced her to imprisonment for a period of three years to be served in a general regime colony.

'The state prosecution in the case was supported by the Assistant Southwestern Transportation Prosecutor.'
Joanna Barker outside Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court after she was handed a suspended sentence for fraud by false representation

A cheating businesswoman stole more than 128,000 from an estate agents to fund an affair with her personal trainer - right under the nose of her business partner husband.

Lettings boss Joanne Barker, 46, fleeced rental payments earmarked for property landlords after she began a secret fling with Andrew Taylor, despite being married to and working with her husband Paul.

Throughout the course of 2014 to 2018, the mother-of-one also went behind the backs of Ian and Jo-Anne Tweedley, the couple's best friends and fellow directors of the agency Barton Kendall, based in Rochdale, Greater Manchester.

Mrs Barker was finally unmasked as a thief when various landlords, who had assigned the agency to collect money from tenants, complained about not getting their pay.

Investigations later revealed how Mrs Barker diverted money from the firm's client account into her own personal bank account - which she used to make rental payments to a fictitious landlord and pay for a 3,640 central heating system at her 400,000 marital home, Manchester's Minshull Street Crown Court heard.

She also used her lover's bank account to deposit 8,586 worth of stolen cash and allowed him to live rent-free for six months in one of the firm's properties.

Neither Mrs Barker's husband or her secret lover were aware of any wrongdoing.

Throughout the course of 2014 to 2018, Mrs Barker went behind the backs of Ian and Jo-Anne Tweedley (right), fellow directors of the agency Barton Kendall

The lettings boss fleeced rental payments earmarked for property landlords after she began a secret fling with Andrew Taylor, despite being married to husband Paul (pictured)

In a statement Mr Tweedley, 57, who is managing director at Barton Kendall with his 52-year old wife said: 'Jo and I worked tirelessly to build up and maintain the business in really difficult times and we became one of the leading lettings agencies in the area with a longstanding reputation.

'I thought life was rosy, I thought we were financially secure albeit not rich, the mortgage was nearly paid off and I was gearing up to retire at 60. When we took on Joanne, she became a trusted family friend and I felt assured she would run the business in my absence.

'But all that came crashing down when I found out she was siphoning off clients' money from the business and stealing all the tenants deposits. That day was the worst of my life. I was in the office at 3am as I couldn't sleep and my heart sunk as I realised my business was in tatters.

'That same morning my sister rang me to say my nephew had been involved a in tragic accident and lost his life. I was numb, I hit rock bottom and we were truly at a horrendous point in our lives.

'What followed was two years of stress, panic and exhaustion to the point of nearly having a breakdown. I was determined to save the business but with such limited funds I was very concerned we might have to fold the company as I didn't see a way out.

'I realised this would have an impact on our staff who had been conned and our many landlords who have been our clients for many years. I felt humiliated and embarrassed. The thought of ending of my life did not occur to me but I was as low and desperate as I have ever been.

'Jo and I ploughed all our savings into the business. I sold my beloved car to pay off the landlords and obtained a 50,000 business loan to pay off contractors. It was almost catastrophic.

'We lost some big landlords, over 50 managed properties, over 50,000 a year. Our insurance premiums went up from 1,600 a year to 20,000. Our standing as one of the leading estate agents in the town has dropped and our reputation has been severely tarnished.'

The thefts occurred shortly after the Tweedleys (left), who acquired Barton Kendall in 2008, took on the Barkers (right) as equal shareholders in 2015

Mrs Barker used her lover's bank account to deposit 8,586 worth of stolen cash and allowed him to live rent-free for six months in one of the firm's properties (Mrs Barker pictured with fellow director Ian Tweedley)

At Minshull Street Crown Court, Manchester, Mrs Barker who pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation insisted she had only stolen 28,868 but forensic accountants said the total amount missing from the firm was 128,868.

She was sentenced to two years jail suspended for two years after claiming she was now living off state benefits in a flat in Salford and was needed to care for her elderly mother.

It is believed she has split up with 50-year old Mr Barker. The court heard the Tweedleys had been able to recompense all the landlords and other victims affected via their insurers.

The thefts occurred shortly after the Tweedleys, who acquired Barton Kendall in 2008, took on the Barkers as equal shareholders in 2015. Mrs Barker had initially been the lettings agency manageress at the Rochdale branch whilst her husband was a manager at Middleton.

Mr Patrick Williamson prosecuting said: 'In 2018 a number of landlords began to complain they were not receiving rent payments which were due to them in line with their letting agreement. It seemed they were only paid by the defendant if they persisted with their inquiries about the missing money.

'The Tweedleys later discovered significant sums of money were missing from their bank accounts to the extent Mrs Tweedley feared the firm was in real danger of bankruptcy. Initially they approached a family friend, a retired detective to look into the matter before being advised to report it to police.

'Meanwhile the defendant resigned in November 2018 at the time the losses were being discovered and at this time her affair with Andrew Taylor also came to light. During a review Mr and Mrs Tweedley noticed company cheques being made out to the defendant and her husband - all in her handwriting.

'The recipient account was that of the defendant but not her husband whose account showed no such deposits.

'A 3,640 central heating system was installed at the defendant's home in 2017 as part of a number of improvements. This was paid for out of the Barton Kendall client account by the defendant without the knowledge of Mr Barker or the Tweedleys.

'A false invoice was later found stating work had been carried out a the Middleton office which in fact does not have a central hearing system fitted.

'She also engaged in false representing that works were being carried out at landlords' properties. One landlord handed over 1800 cash on the basis contractors had been instructed to carry out work at his property but none was in fact instructed. When the landlord asked about progress she said work was ongoing and gave the impression it was almost complete. In fact no work ever started.

At Minshull Street Crown Court, Manchester, Mrs Barker who pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation insisted she had only stolen 28,868 but forensic accountants said the total amount missing from the firm was 128,868

In mitigation defence counsel Richard Dawson said Mrs Barker was a full time carer for her elderly mother who would have to move into a nursing home if his client was locked up

'She also allowed Andrew Taylor her personal trainer to use a Barton Kendal rental property between October 2017 and February 2018. There was no record of him paying any rent whilst Barton Kendall itself paid the landlord.

'It appears she falsely informed Mr Taylor she owned the property and that he need not pay rent. She also made transfers from the client account to accounts held by the defendant and Mr Taylor.

'One other landlord complained she was not receiving all her rental payments but the defendant said she was behind in carrying out transactions because - among other excuses - she was suffering from cancer.

'When it was looked into, a number of payments purporting to go into the landlord's account went to the defendant instead. Also a number of payments purporting to go a landlord called Taylor went into the account of Andrew Taylor. At no stage was Andrew Taylor registered as a landlord with Barton Kendall. The Tweedleys have had to inject personal capital to keep the business afloat.'

When interviewed by police Barker denied theft claiming she was owed all the money she pocketed. The court heard several landlords had since taken their business to other letting agencies.

In mitigation defence counsel Richard Dawson said Mrs Barker was a full time carer for her elderly mother who would have to move into a nursing home if his client was locked up.

'She stole relatively insubstantial sums of the money but it then added up,' he added. 'She wishes to apologise for the impact her actions have had on others.'

Sentencing Judge Angela Nield told Barker to complete 180 hours unpaid work, 30 days rehabilitation activity days, abide by a two month 7pm-7am curfew and face a Proceeds of Crime hearing.

She said: 'This was a company set up by your friends who had built up a good reputation over the years for efficiency and honesty. You became part and parcel of that company and were quite clearly trusted to the highest level.

'You have offered an explanation about the difficult financial circumstances in which you found yourself coupled with problems in your marriage, exacerbated by an affair you had with an individual who then became implicated indirectly in your fraudulent behaviour.

'But there is no excuse for this systematic theft and stripping of assets and what you did represented a significant breach of trust. You not only brought the company to the brink of possible bankruptcy but betrayed individuals who trusted you to run that business as your own.

'Mr and Mrs Tweedley have not only lost significant sums of money, have been forced to reconsider their whole lifestyle and plans for a early and happy retirement.'
Horrified witnesses to Hamas's October 7 massacre have been left suicidal, with at least one person already taking their own life, it has been reported.

It comes amid the release of testimonies given by those who saw the terror attack first hand - or were among the first at the scene in the days that followed.

Survivors and witnesses to October 7 have said Israeli women were raped - whether they were alive or dead - and tortured in unimaginably cruel ways.

One man who hid in a pit during the attack on the Nova music festival said he heard someone nearby screaming as she was raped, while a combat paramedic said they saw the body of a young woman with her legs open and pants pulled down.

A volunteer tasked with finding and collecting bodies also said in written witness testimony that he found women in their homes tied to the bed. One had been tortured,' a knife stuck in her vagina and all her internal organs removed', he wrote.

Horrified witnesses to Hamas 's October 7 massacre have been left suicidal, with at least one person already taking their own life, it has been reported. Pictured: Festival goers are seen fleeing on October 7 as Hamas terrorists stormed across the border from Gaza

The accounts and first assessments by Israeli rights groups suggest sexual assault was part of an atrocities-filled rampage by Hamas and other Gaza militants who killed about 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and took more than 240 hostages.

With Israel calling on the international community to recognise the massacre as a crime against humanity, one investigator said Hamas stormed across Israel's border with Gaza with a 'clear order' - to use 'rape as genocide'.

One horrific video testimony came from a woman who was at the music festival, and was shown privately to journalists by Israeli police, according to the BBC.

In it, the woman - named only as Witness S - describes seeing Hamas fighters rape a woman and mutilate her, before the last of her attackers shot her in the head.

The gunmen then continued to rape her after she was executed, the witness said.

During the assault, Witness S told police that the attackers cut off parts of the victim's body, such as her breast, and 'threw it on the street.'

The woman in the video described watching the terrorists as she pretended to be dead. 'I couldn't understand what I saw,' she said.

Her testimony was released last month, and was presented by Israel's police chief.

Another man, who was also at the festival site on October 7, said he heard a woman scream as she was raped by Hamas terrorists.

Ron Freger fled the music festival when Hamas attacked and said he heard a woman screaming for help. 'I was lying in a pit (and) I heard (a girl) yelling: 'They're raping me, they're raping me!' he told the Associated Press.

Several minutes later, he heard gunshots close by and she fell silent, he said.

'The feeling in that moment is one of complete powerlessness. I'm lying in this hole and I have no ability to do anything. I have no weapon, I have nothing, I'm surrounded by other people who are hiding with me and we're completely powerless,' said the 23-year-old from the northern Israeli town of Netanya.

The BBC also spoke to a man who said he heard the 'noises and screams of people being murdered, raped, decapitated'.

In a statement released through a support organisation, he said: 'Some women were raped before they were dead, some raped while injured, and some were already dead when the terrorists raped their lifeless bodies.

'I desperately wanted to help, but there was nothing I could do.'

The accounts and first assessments by Israeli rights groups suggest sexual assault was part of an atrocities-filled rampage by Hamas and other Gaza terrorists who killed about 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and took more than 240 hostages

One witness who was at the festival spoke of how a woman was gang raped before she was mutilated

One serving Israeli soldier, only using her first name Avigayil, told the BBC it was hard to know how many victims had been raped, as some of the bodies had been burnt

A Hamas gunman is seen on CCTV camera footage during the October 7 attack

In further testimony, a combat medic told the Associated Press that he came across half a dozen bodies of women and men with possible signs of sexual assault when he reached one of the attacked communities.

One girl had been shot in the head and was lying on the floor, her legs open and pants pulled down, with what looked like semen on her lower back, said the medic who spoke on condition of anonymity because his unit was classified.

Other bodies had bleeding around the groin with limbs at distorted angles, he said.

He was among a number of responders to detail what they saw in the aftermath of the attack. Their accounts make up much of the evidence of sexual assault.

At the Shura military base where victims are being identified, Shari Mendes, a member of the army reserve unit that deals with the identification and religious burial preparation of female soldiers, said some of the women's bodies came in with little clothing, such as parts of their pyjamas.

Some only had bloodied underwear.

The soldier also spoke at a UN event in New York on Monday, titled: 'Hear Our Voices: Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in the October 7 Hamas terror attack'.

She said: 'Our team commander saw several female soldiers who were shot in the crotch, intimate parts, vagina, or shot in the breast.

'This seemed to be a systematic genital mutilation of a group of victims.'

'These women arrived with their eyes opened, their mouths in grimaces, their fists clenched,' she added.

'The soldiers that we dealt with had expressions of agony on their faces still.

'I remember one young woman whose arm was broken in so many places it was difficult for us to lay her arm in the burial shroud, her leg too. In her case the entire left side of her body was shredded, torn apart, most likely by a grenade.'

Members of the security forces continue to search for identification and personal effects at the Supernova Music Festival site, where hundreds were killed and dozens taken by Hamas gunmen near the border with Gaza, on October 12

A picture shows bullet-riddled buildings damaged during the October 7 attack by Hamas terrorists in Kibbutz Kissufim in southern Israel on November 20

A bloody handprint inside a house at the Nir Oz kibbutz, one of the Israeli communities near the Gaza Strip attacked on October 7 by Hamas terrorists, on October 31

One of the people tasked with collecting bodies with the Zaka religious volunteer organisations told the BBC that they saw signs of torture and mutilation.

He said such signs included a pregnant woman whose womb had been ripped open before she was killed, and the unborn fetus stabbed.

The BBC said it had been unable to verify the Zaka volunteer's account, and pointed out that Israeli media reports have questioned some of the testimony of volunteers who worked in the aftermath of the attack.

Another, Nachman Dyksztejna, provided written testimony detailing how he saw the bodies of two women in kibbutz Be'eri with their hands and legs tied to the bed.

'One was sexually terrorised with a knife stuck in her vagina and all her internal organs removed,' his statement says, according to the BBC.

Dr Cochav Elkayam-Levy, a legal expert at the Davis Institute of International Relations at Hebrew University, told the British broadcaster that it looked as if Hamas had learned how to 'weaponize women's bodies from ISIS'.

'It brings me chills just to know the details that they knew about what to do to women: cut their organs, mutilate their genitals, rape,' she said.

'It's horrifying to know this.'

A civil commission headed by Dr Elkayam-Levy, which has been tasked with collecting evidence and testimony of sexual crimes, is calling on the international community to recognise the October 7 attacks as being systematic abuse, constituting Crimes Against Humanity.

'We see definite patterns,' she told the BBC in an interview. 'So it wasn't incidental, it wasn't random. They came with a clear order. It was [] rape as genocide.'

Minister May Golan said she had spoken to at least three girls who were hospitalised, and in a 'very hard psychiatric situation because of the rapes they watched.'

She told the BBC that the girls pretended to be dead, but that they 'watched it, and heard everything. And they can't deal with it.'

Israel's police chief Yaacov Shabtai echoed her comments, saying many survivors of the attacks were finding it difficult to come to terms with what they had seen.

Some are understood to be suicidal. One person working with the teams supporting the survivors told the BBC some had already killed themselves.

A destroyed house as a result of the Hamas attack on the Kibbutz on October 27, in Kfar Aza

Destroyed cars and belongings left at the Supernova Music Festival site where hundreds were killed and dozens taken by Hamas militants near the border with Gaza on October 12

While the number of witness testimonies appear to be growing in number, police are still struggling to put together the pieces of evidence.

In the immediate aftermath of the attack, priority was given to identifying bodies and not preserving evidence, making the investigation more challenging.

Now Israeli police say they are combing through 60,000 videos seized from the body cameras of Hamas gunmen. Footage from social media and security cameras will also be looked at in a bid to bring the perpetrators to justice.

While it has been hard to find rape survivors, as many were killed by their attackers, Police say they now have 'multiple' eye-witness accounts of sexual assault.

They have not said exactly how many, and are yet to interview any of the surviving victims of the attacks.

Israel's Women's Empowerment Minister May Golan told the BBC that very few victims of rape or sexual assault had survived the attacks.

Those that did are undergoing psychiatric treatment.

'But very, very few (survived). The majority were brutally murdered,' she said.

'They aren't able to talk - not with me, and not to anyone from the government [or] from the media.'

One expert has said that a country like Israel should have the means to do rigorous testing to confirm if people were sexually assaulted in a more systematic way.

'Forensic testing should have been a priority to build a full picture of the attack,' said Nidhi Kapur, a specialist on sexual abuse in situations of armed conflict who has worked in the region.

'In a conflict you first take care of the survivors, you don't count bodies.'

But even two months on from the attack, the exact number of victims remains difficult to establish, partly because of the state of many of the bodies.

A serving soldier, who only used her first name Avigayil, told the BBC: 'I've dealt with more than a few burned bodies and I have no idea what they went through beforehand.

'And bodies that are missing the bottom half - I also don't know if they were raped. But women that were clearly raped? There are enough. More than enough.'

A grab taken from a UGC video posted on the Telegram channel 'South First Responders' on October 9, 2023, shows the aftermath of an attack on the Supernova music Festival

Based on open-source information and interviews, the Physicians for Human Rights Israel report documents incidents at the music festival, homes around the Gaza Strip and an Israeli military base, all attacked by Hamas.

'It is becoming more apparent that the violence perpetrated against women, men and children also included widespread sexual and gender-based crimes,' it says.

Before this war, Hamas, an Islamic terror group sworn to Israel's destruction, wasn't known to use rape as a weapon, said Colin P. Clarke, director of research at The Soufan Group, a global intelligence and security consulting firm.

Its tactics included suicide bombings and shootings of Israeli soldiers and civilians.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and members of his war cabinet held a tense and emotional meeting with recently released hostages and family members of hostages still held in Gaza.

Some of the recently released hostages shared testimonies of sexual abuse during their time in Gaza, participants said.

Separately, a doctor who treated some of the 110 released hostages told the AP that at least 10 men and women among those freed were sexually assaulted or abused, but did not provide further details.

He spoke on condition of anonymity to protect the hostages' identities.

According to the Israeli military, 138 hostages, including 15 women, are still held by Hamas and other terror or militant groups in Gaza.

Lt. Col. Richard Hecht, a military spokesman, said the army is 'absolutely' concerned about sexual violence against female hostages.

On Monday, Israel hosted a special event at the United Nations, where former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, US Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and top technology executive Sheryl Sandberg were among those who criticised what they called a global failure to support women who were sexually assaulted and killed.

But some groups say Israel isn't making it easy to investigate.

The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said it requested access to Israel and the Palestinian territories to allow it to collect information from the events that took place on Oct. 7 and 8, and since then.

Israeli soldiers look at photos of people killed and taken captive by Hamas terrorists during their violent rampage through the Nova music festival in southern Israel on October 7

However, Israel has not responded to its requests, said Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the UN Human Rights Office. Israel says the office has preexisting biases against Israel and it will not cooperate with the body.

Israeli officials said they would consider all options for independent international mechanisms to investigate.

Rights experts say the United Nations is best placed to conduct a fair, credible and impartial investigation.

'These accounts are horrifying and deserve an urgent, thorough, and credible investigation,' said Heather Barr, associate director for the women's rights division at Human Rights Watch.
Boris Johnson issued an apology today as he kicked off an epic two-day grilling at the Covid inquiry.

The ex-PM said he wanted to express how 'sorry I am for the pain and the loss and the suffering' of victims of the pandemic.

Mr Johnson acknowledged that 'in hindsight' mistakes had been made, and suggested the danger had been underestimated in the early stages because the last such crisis was 'outside living memory'.

He said even by early February the government was 'not yet believing' that the 'reasonable worst case' of the virus sweeping Brits would be realised.

Mr Johnson said he was 'really rattled' when he saw the impact on Italy, where hospitals were overwhelmed. 'We should have twigged much sooner... I should have twigged,' he said.

But he rejected the idea that his decisions had resulted in more excess deaths than other parts of the Western world.

'Can I just say how glad I am to be at this inquiry and how sorry I am for the pain and the loss and the suffering of the Covid victims,' Mr Johnson said.

In a tetchy exchange with inquiry counsel Hugo Keith KC, Mr Johnson disputed that Britain had failed to save as many lives as other nations. He pointed to the aging population as a reason why the country was hard hit.

Mr Johnson took responsibility for a list of decisions including the speed of the Government's response to the pandemic in 2020, lockdown timings, the explosion of the virus in the residential care sector, the Eat Out to Help Out scheme and the decision not to introduce a circuit-breaker later in 2020.

'I take personal responsibility for all the decisions that we made,' he replied.

'With hindsight, it may be easy to see things that we could have done differently or it may be possible to see things that we could have done differently.

'At the time, I felt and I know that everybody else felt that we were doing our best in very difficult circumstances to protect life and protect the NHS.'

Mr Johnson said that the only easy decision during the pandemic was to roll out the vaccines.

He told the inquiry: 'When it came to the balance of the need to protect the public and protect the NHS and the damage done by lockdowns, it was incredibly difficult.'

Boris Johnson kicked off an epic two-day grilling at the Covid inquiry today as he fends off criticism of his leadership

The former prime minister is facing a grilling by the inquiry's chief counsel, Hugo Keith KC (pictured today)

As he was shown Cabinet minutes from February 6, 2020, Mr Johnson said at that time the government was 'not yet believing' that the 'reasonable worst case' of the virus sweeping Brits would be realised

Mr Johnson said he was alarmed but confused by the scientific advice being presented in a report on March 2, 2020

Clashing with Mr Keith on how the UK's death toll compared to the rest of the Western World, Mr Johnson insisted: 'All I can say is I think many other countries suffered terrible losses from Covid.'

He said the evidence suggested that the UK was 'well down' the international table for deaths.

However, Mr Keith retorted that 'in Western Europe we were one of the worst off', with only Italy suffering more.

Quizzed on the early stages of Covid's emergence, Mr Johnson said that in January 2020 'everybody had they stopped to think about it could see the implications of the data, the implications of what was happening in the numbers, the percentage of fatalities in China'.

'But I don't think that they necessarily drew the right conclusions in that early phase. Which is no fault of theirs.'

He added: 'What happened is something that was completely outside people's living memory... I don't think people really computed the implications of that data.'

The ex-PM said he believed that was why the situation was 'not escalated to me' until February.

Key points in Boris Johnson's Covid evidence Four people left the hearing after standing up as Mr Johnson's evidence began, holding up signs that read: 'The Dead can't hear your apologies.'

Mr Johnson said there were 'strong arguments against going to early' with the initial lockdown ;

He described Covid in January 2020 as being 'like a cloud on the horizon no bigger than a man's hand', saying no-one knew if it would turn into a 'typhoon';

Mr Johnson said at that point there was not enough 'credence' given to the 'mathematical implications' of forecasts, highlighting that previous threats such as SARS and BSE had not triggered the same chaos;

The ex-PM denied taking a 'holiday' over February half-term in 2020, saying he was 'working throughout the period' and had called both Xi Jinping of China and President Trump;

Mr Johnson admitted he had been wrong to boast in March 2020 about shaking hands with 'everybody' on a visit to the Royal Free Hospital in London.

He denied that foul-mouthed WhatsApps showed his team were deeply split and played down internal No10 pressure from Dominic Cummings to sack then-health secretary Matt Hancock, saying that was part of normal cut and thrust in Westminster;

Mr Johnson dismissed Covid era messages showing Cabinet Secretary Simon Case had swiped that he had 'never seen a group of people less suited' for running the country, saying WhatsApps tended to be 'pejorative and hyperbolical';

He appeared to blame the aggressive tone of private exchanges on 'male-dominated' meetings, saying there was better 'gender balance' in his office as London Mayor;

Mr Johnson defended no cracking down on borders in the early phases, saying that scientists did not believe it would work and evidence from other countries suggested they had been right;

When the virus started surging again in Autumn 2020 Mr Johnson said there was an 'appalling problem' over whether to lock down, saying they were concerned about doing the same thing 'over and over again';

The ex-PM denied that the Cabinet was shut out of decisions because it was 'seen by No10 as not being a serious place for serious discussion';

Mr Johnson said the Cabinet was generally 'more reluctant' to impose lockdown restrictions than he was;

About 5,000 WhatsApp messages on Mr Johnson's phone from January 30, 2020 to June 2020 were unavailable to the inquiry. The former premier said he 'didn't know the exact reason' but insisted there had been a technical failure and denied deleting anything. Advertisement

Mr Johnson said: 'I think that it would certainly be fair to say of me, the entire Whitehall establishment, scientific community included, our advisers included, that we underestimated the scale and the pace of the challenge. You can see that very clearly in those early days in March.

'We were all collectively underestimating how fast it had already spread in the UK. We put the first peak too late, we thought it would be May/June  that was totally wrong. I don't blame the scientists for that at all.

'That was the feeling and it just turned out to be wrong.'

Mr Johnson said: 'I certainly would accept that my mindset  like the mindset I think of the overwhelming majority of the ministers and officials in Whitehall in that period Jan to mid-Feb  was not as alarmed as we should have been.'

He was asked about a text his chief adviser Dominic Cummings sent to a 'Number 10 action group' on February 6 saying, 'We need a briefing on corona tomorrow. Chief scientists told me it's probably out of control now and will sweep the world. Will be major comms exercise'.

Mr Johnson replied by text: 'Yes please, need to talk about coronavirus comms at 9.'

Asked by Hugo Keith KC why the singular focus was on communications and not enacting a major response, Mr Johnson said: 'Because I think it's your point about infection fatality rate  the consequences.

'I think that when you read that a pandemic is about to sweep the world, you think you've heard it before. And that was the that was the problem.

The inquiry was shown an email from Mr Johnson's then-private secretary Imran Shafi, who wrote on February 24 2020: 'At some point soon, I'd like to start exposing the PM to the potential decisions he might have to take in short order on this  at the moment it's been fairly abstract with him I think'.

Asked what his general level of knowledge was at this point, Mr Johnson said: 'My memory now is that the scenes from Italy really rattled me.

'I remember seeing a note somewhere saying the fatality rate in Italy was 8 per cent because they had an elderly population, I thought 'well My God, we've got an elderly population. This is this is appalling'.

'And my instinct was 'this cannot possibly be be right, this number'.

'I look at all this stuff, in which we seem so oblivious, with horror now, we should have twigged, we should collectively have twigged much sooner I should have twigged.

'I think what Imran is trying to do here is to get the scientists to take me through the idea of the NPIs (non-pharmaceutical interventions) and what that would involve.'

Mr Johnson admitted he had been wrong to boast in March 2020 about shaking hands with 'everybody' on a visit to the Royal Free Hospital in London.

'I should have been more precautionary... I wanted to be encouraging,' he said.

Mr Johnson said that his administration had a lot of 'challenging and competing characters' but it got 'an awful lot done'.

Referring to expletive-laden WhatsApp exchanges, he told the inquiry that people were 'getting very frazzled because they were frustrated'.

'Covid kept coming at us in wave after wave and it was very, very hard to fight it,' he said.

'People were doing their level best. When people are critical of the guy at the top or they are critical of each other, that's a reflection of the difficulty of the circumstances.'

It was 'a reflection of the agony that the country was going through and that the government was going through'.

Mr Johnson said he would make a 'distinction between the type of language used and the decision making processes of the government and what we got done'.

'I would make a distinction between the type of language used and the decision-making processes of the government and what we got done,' he said.

'And I would submit that any powerful and effective government, and I think of the Thatcher government or the Blair government, has a lot of challenging and competing characters whose views about each other might not be fit to print, but who get an awful lot done  and that's what we did.'

In July 2020 Simon Case, the then-head official in Downing Street and now the Cabinet Secretary, said 'I've never seen a bunch of people less well-equipped to run a country', in a message to Sir Mark, who was cabinet secretary at the time.

But Mr Johnson said Whitehall mandarins would have said similar 'pretty fruity' things about the Thatcher administration if their 'unexpurgated' messages had been available in the same way as WhatsApp exchanges now.

He said WhatsApp messages tended to be 'ephemeral, it tends to the pejorative and the hyperbolical'.

'I think that the worst vice, in my view, would have been to have had an operation where everybody was so deferential and so reluctant to make waves that they never expressed their opinion, they never challenged and they never doubted.

'It was much more important to have a group of people who are willing to doubt themselves and to doubt each other. And I think that that was creatively useful rather than the reverse.'

Mr Johnson suggested his 'male-dominated' team was behind aggressive private exchanges, saying that when he was London Mayor his office was gender balanced and 'very harmonious'.

'I think that the gender balance of my team should have been better,' he said.

'I think sometimes during the pandemic, too many meetings were too male-dominated if I'm absolutely honest with you.'

Mr Johnson also played down Mr Cummings' private calls for Matt Hancock to be sacked. 'If you're prime minister, you are constantly being lobbied by somebody to sack somebody else. It's just what, I'm afraid, happens and it's part of life,' he said.

He acknowledged Mr Cummings had a 'low opinion' of Mr Hancock but 'I thought he was wrong'.

'I stuck by the health secretary. I thought the health secretary worked very hard.'

He said Mr Hancock 'may have had defects' but 'I thought that he was doing his best in very difficult circumstances and I thought he was a good communicator'.

Mr Johnson said 'there were some really excellent cabinet discussions about the trade-offs' involved in curbing Covid.

But he claimed that the cabinet as a whole was 'more reluctant' to impose non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) than he was.

'That wasn't true for every member of the cabinet but that would be a general comment,' he added.

Mr Johnson revealed that he only read the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) minutes 'once or twice' during the crisis.

'I think I did once or twice look at the  maybe more than that  looked at what Sage had actually said and Sage certainly produced a lot of documentation,' he said.

Baroness Heather Hallett opened the latest dramatic evidence session of the inquiry today

'But I think that the CSA (chief scientific adviser) and CMO (chief medical officer) did an outstanding job of leading Sage and distilling their views and conveying them to me.'

He added that 'in retrospect it may have been valuable to hear the Sage conversation unpasteurised itself, but I was more than content with the very clear summaries that I was getting from the CSA and the CMO.'

In written evidence, Mr Johnson said he had a duty to consider whether lockdowns 'would do (and did do) more harm than good'.

He added: 'We were between a rock and a hard place. We simply had no good choices, and it was necessary at all times to weigh up the harms that any choice would cause.'

He is also expected to repeat his denials that he ever said to 'let the bodies pile high' rather than order a third lockdown.

Downing Street at the time strongly denied he made the comment, insisting it was 'just another lie'.

The former PM was driven up to the venue in central London nearly three hours before his appearance is scheduled to begin at 10am.

As a result he missed protests by bereaved relatives, who held a press call before the hearing started.

Mr Johnson's former chief of staff Lord Lister told the inquiry last month he heard the former PM say the words 'let the bodies pile high' during a meeting in September 2020.

The former premier is also set to be quizzed about Sir Patrick Vallance's diary entries in which he wrote about his frustrations in dealing with the then-prime minister.

'(Mr Johnson is) obsessed with older people accepting their fate and letting the young get on with life and the economy going,' he said.

'Quite bonkers set of exchanges,' he wrote, referring to a WhatsApp group including Mr Johnson.

Tory MP Sir Michael Fabricant said the inquiry appeared at times to be more interested in 'salacious' WhatsApp messages between ministers and officials than in learning the lessons of the crisis.

And he appealed for Mr Johnson to be given a fair hearing: 'I have been a little worried that the inquiry has drifted into who swore what at whom rather than focusing on the lessons learned in case, God forbid, we have another pandemic.

'I just hope that Boris will be heard by people with an open mind rather than the prejudice which he has met in the past at other hearings.'

Another supporter of the former PM said the inquiry appeared to have started from a presumption that lockdowns were the right response to the pandemic and that the Government had been too slow.

'They only seem to be interested in asking whether we should have locked down sooner or for longer,' the source said.

'There has been very little discussion so far of the incredibly difficult trade-offs involved or of the constantly changing scientific advice, which was against locking down early on.

'If you really want to learn the lessons of the pandemic you  which is what Boris is interested in  you have to look at everything, not start with a pre-determined narrative.'

Mr Johnson is expected to acknowledge that the first lockdown of March 2020 was inevitable, given the lack of a vaccine or effective treatments against a deadly new virus.

But in his written testimony he said he had been 'very worried about the economic harm caused... and whether it would do more damage to the country than the virus itself'.

He is also expected to suggest that the inquiry should take more interest in the origins of the virus. Michael Gove was shut down at the hearings when he suggested that a 'significant body of judgment' now believed Covid-19 was man-made.

Mr Johnson will apologise for mistakes made by the Government during the pandemic.

But he will insist that ministers 'got the big calls right': achieving one of the fastest vaccine rollouts in the world, preventing the collapse of the NHS, developing innovative treatments like dexamethasone and emerging from the final lockdown quickly.

He will also reject claims that he 'switched off' during a half-term break in February 2020.

Boris Johnson was driven up to the venue in central London nearly three hours before his appearance is scheduled to begin at 10am
A Big Issue seller who has become pals with Prince William has previously appeared on stage with British rock royalty Muse and even had his artwork displayed at a top London gallery.

Dave Martin, from Derby, has had an extraordinary journey since first becoming homeless after moving to London in 2011, which now sees him exchanging Christmas cards with the future King.

The 61-year-old has been selling the Big Issue for more than a decade outside a Tesco in Brook Green, west London, making 125 a week from sales of about 50 magazines.

Alongside his magazine sales, the former garage worker also creates and sells his own art, and has even had his work put on display at the Brick Lane gallery in east London.

Mr Martin was pictured this week as many fans snapped photos with the Prince of Wales, who had joined him to sell copies of the Big Issue to shoppers outside Tesco in Hammersmith on Monday.

Dave Martin, who is originally from Derby, has been selling the magazine for more than 10 years outside a Tesco in Brook Green, west London and makes 125 a week from sales of about 50 magazines

Beaming Prince William, 41, appeared relaxed as he joined Dave, 61, at the Tesco in Hammersmith to sell copies of the Big Issue on Monday

READ MORE: Prince William poses in his red cap selling the Big Issue magazine with pal Dave for the third time in a year - after vowing to end homelessness once and for all Advertisement

It's the latest time the heir to the throne was snapped selling the Big Issue with Mr Martin, following similar meetings in 2022 in Westminster and at the Tesco in Hammersmith. Mr Martin has even interview the Prince of Wales for the magazine.

Previously Mr Martin's biggest brush with fame was a Big Issue event where he appeared on stage alongside rock band Muse after they performed an event to raise money for the Big Issue at the Eventim Apollo in March, 2022, which is just a stone's throw away from where the 61-year-old's Hammersmith base.

'I didn't think it'd get better than that,' he said.

On his website - which he uses to sell his art - Mr Martin says he moved to London in 2011 and soon found himself homeless.

'I started selling the Big Issue the same year to support myself and I now have a regular pitch outside Tesco in Brook Green,' he writes.

'In 2014 The Big Issue took me to an interactive exhibition at the Tate Modern. I saw lots of great art and was particularly inspired by the work of Matisse, and in 2016 I started making my own abstract art'.

He now makes his own collages out of coloured card including postcards which sell for 10 for a pack of four and wall prints for 35.

Previously Mr Martin's biggest brush with fame was a Big Issue event where he appeared on stage alongside rock band Muse in March 2022

He now makes his own collages out of coloured card including postcards which sell for 10 for a pack of four and wall prints for 35. Pictured

'I explore different colour and shape combinations. I then make prints based on those originals. I've been exhibiting since 2019 and last year my work featured in a group show at the Jealous Gallery,' he explained.

Mr Martin moved from Derby to London and lived rough for three months, when he was approached by a Big Issue vendor who said he could make a living selling the magazine.

He previously told MyLdn about his time sleeping rough: 'That really got to me. In the great scheme of things that's not long, but even one week on the streets is a lot.'

'I was having to beg for food, lumping a big backpack around, and trying to stay dry. The hardest thing is just trying to find somewhere undercover because it's such cold, biting weather that you could get pneumonia.'

He added that people sleeping on the street outside a pub or club often ended up 'getting a kicking because people are drunk and get abusive' and he found these reactions 'really upsetting' at first.

'Now, it's water off a duck's back. I'm so used to people giving me funny looks that it doesn't bother me. It's their problem not mine. That's just what you get as a homeless person - people just walk by and don't say a word. I think people don't know what to do or say or how to help, and I suppose it is difficult for them.'

He says the job gave him his self-respect back and allowed him to get a flat in Tottenham and start making art. In 2021, he even had his own exhibition as part of the Works on Paper and Contemporary Painting at Bethnal Green's Brick Lane Gallery.

Prince William pictured with Big Issue vendor Dave Martin in 2022 when he first went out to do his bit to help the homeless by selling the magazine

Prince William, pictured on the cover of the magazine, posed for the special edition of The Big Issue to mark his 40th birthday, last year

The Prince wrote exclusively for the magazine to explain why he wanted to talk about the problem of homelessness around his milestone

'I like doing geometric shapes a lot because it just comes naturally to me. I've done a few different commissions with different colours and different designs as well,' he previously told the Big Issue.

'I like it when that comes to fruition for me. I like creating and when I do create a piece I feel very proud. I know lots of artists aren't ever happy with the finished article but I feel proud.'

On Monday, the Prince of Wales once again donned his red cap and jacket to sell the Big Issue to people outside Tesco in Hammersmith, West London.

Beaming William, 41, appeared relaxed as he joined Mr Martin, 61, who has been a friend of the royal since they hit the streets selling Big Issue copies together 18 months ago.

On Kensington Palace's official X account, Prince William wrote: 'Great to be back with Dave, selling the latest edition of the Big Issue once again!'

The prince launched his Homewards project this year to end homelessness and has been campaigning for rough sleepers since his mother Princess Diana took him out on the streets when he was a child.

His visit to Tesco with Dave follows a similar trip out with the Big Issue vendor back in 2022 to mark the future King's 40th birthday.

On that occasion, William sold 32 copies of the Big Issue in less than an hour as he spent the day on the streets of Victoria, London.

He also wrote for the magazine, explaining he wanted to shine a light on the issue of homelessness, recalling when he first visited a homeless shelter with his mother, the Princess of Wales. He added that Diana, 'in her own inimitable style, was determined to shine a light on an overlooked, misunderstood problem'.

He even said he plans to take his children Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five, to see the work of 'fantastic' organisations he works with 'just as my mother did for me'.

Mr Martin was pictured this week as many fans snapped photos with the future king, who was spotted selling the magazine in Westminster. He is pictured with Prince William and London cab driver Neil Kramer

Footage, which was released on his social media, showed William accompanying vendor Dave to sell the magazine, which is sold by people to help lift themselves out of poverty.

On Twitter he said: 'I have always believed in using my platform to help bring attention and action to those who are struggling and I commit to doing what I can to shine a spotlight on this solvable issue not just today, but in the months and years to come.'

In the video, the prince says: 'Homelessness has always stuck with me as a topic and as an issue I want to fight for.

'Started to kind of feel actually this issue isn't quite as big to tackle as we think. We can fix it.

'I think that's been a bit of a turning point in my head, where I've seen, okay if we really want to fix homelessness it can be done. We do it together. Give the next generation less chance of being homeless.'

As well as spending time with William, Mr Martine also played a central role in the Ben Eine-curated Big Issue Art Special magazine in March 2020.

While he uses card, scissors and blue-tack to create geometric prints - he's also been taking classes with homeless charity St Mungo's, who provided him with acrylics and oils.

He added to the Big Issue magazine: 'To start with I just came up with an idea about shapes and colours and then I thought, well, do it on A4.

'So I got coloured art cards, I'm printing all these shapes  diamonds, squares, circles and what have you  and for some reason I tended to get a good match with the colours. People seem to like my combinations, more so than my shapes.

'I've been thinking about my past, and what gave me the idea  I used to work in a garage in Derby, where I'm from. I used to mix the paint for car spray, using different shades of colours.

Posing for a photo! Prince William smiles with passerby Laura Zuikauskas who stopped for a chat on the street in 2022

As soon as word got out that William was on the street, dozens of royal fans approached him hoping for a quick pic with the future monarch

'Maybe part of it came from there. Shapes-wise, I remember my grandmother having a tea mat that was just diamonds, it was an elaborate pattern. When people ask me I usually say it suddenly came to me but I think I got it from there.

'I'm selling the odd thing now. I've got this guy called Gavin, he does my prints. He's got his own business, he's a designer as well. He'll scan my originals and then he'll make them up.

'I display some of them on my pitch, some of my customers will pick one and then we'll arrange a meet and do the sale. I sold an original a couple of years ago for 200. We did the sale in Costa! That was through The Big Issue. A woman rang in, a price was discussed and before I knew it I'd got a phone call, we met up and we did the deal.'

Mr Martin also revealed that people have compared his work to Matisse, but he has his own individual style and his inspiration is from himself.

'I've been in Street Art in the mag a couple of times. It alerted people who see me on my pitch to the fact I was an artist, I think they were quite surprised! Now more people are finding out it's me I'm selling the odd one  I do display my designs on my pitch. With this exhibition coming up things are looking good. I'm even getting a website together'.
Romeo had been kept at the Miami Seaquarium since 1956

America's loneliest manatee has finally been moved after the mammal was left to live out his twilight years in a tiny 30ft concrete pool in Miami and forced to live separately from his mate Juliet.

A video of Romeo taken last month at Miami Seaquarium went viral showing the 67-year-old manatee, who has been there since 1956, circling in a worse-for-wear pool, following years of outrage from campaigners about the living conditions there.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) successfully transported three manatees  Romeo, Juliet and Clarity  from Miami Seaquarium (MSQ) to SeaWorld Orlando and ZooTampa.

The transportation was a tremendous struggle due to the animals' size, weight and health condition.

But accompanied by specialized vehicles and an experienced team of vets and animal care specialists, all three made the trip safely.

America's loneliest manatee has finally been moved after the mammal was left to live out his twilight years in a tiny 30ft concrete pool in Miami and forced to live separately from his mate Juliet. 67-year-old Romeo is pictured being released into the water

Earlier on Tuesday, the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) successfully transported three manatees  Romeo, Juliet (pictured) and Clarity  from Miami Seaquarium (MSQ) to SeaWorld Orlando and ZooTampa

The transportation was a tremendous struggle due to the animals' size, weight and health condition

The animals required rescue and relocation due to a lack of sufficient care at their previous facility, as reported by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Earlier this month, the USDA tore into the site operators at Miami Seaquarium, the Dolphin Company, for their neglect of Romeo.

Romeo and Juliet weigh more than 3,000 pounds and have resided at MSQ since the late 1950s.

ZooTampa contacted the USFWS and offered to temporarily care for the two manatees, while the MRP identifies a permanent location for them.

The other manatee, Clarity, is an adult female that had stayed at MSQ since 2009 when she was rescued due to watercraft-related injuries.

She is being rehabilitated at SeaWorld Orlando until the MRP reviews her case and determines the best placement for her.

Staff started the cross-state trip with Romeo's departure at 8.30am and Juliet left just 50 minutes later.

'Today is a very big day,' said Melissa Nau, the senior director of animal health at ZooTampa. 'Manatees are in the hearts of so many Floridians. The fact that we get to help sick and injured animals have a chance to have a longer life is definitely a huge honor.'

Romeo arrived at ZooTampa first at around 1.30pm, where elated zoo staff greeted him after a drive of around four and a half hours.

'There was precious cargo coming through,' Cynthia Stringfield, a ZooTampa veterinarian who was on board with Romeo for the drive, told the Tampa Bay Times. 'Romeo did extremely well during the transport. He's a very old manatee, and that was a lot for him. But he got to the zoo with no problems at all.'

His star-crossed lover Juliet followed at around 3.55pm.

Manatees are semi-social animals and 'suffer psychologically when not living in pairs or groups'. Clarity is pictured being delivered to ZooTampa

Manatees are classed as a threatened species in the US with just 7,500 in the wild in Florida. SeaWorld Orlando's Rescue Team prepares to move Clarity

Staff started the cross-state trip with Romeo's departure at 8.30am and Juliet left just 50 minutes later. Romeo arrived at ZooTampa first at around 1.30pm and Juliet followed at around 3.55pm. One of the manatees is pictured being transported

Romeo and Juliet weigh more than 3,000 pounds and have resided at MSQ since the late 1950s. Juliet is pictured in a sling

The animals required rescue and relocation due to lack of sufficient care at their previous facility, as reported by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). Clarity is pictured at SeaWorld Orlando

Accompanied by specialized vehicles and an experienced team of vets and animal care specialists, all three animals made the trip safely. One of the mammals, Clarity, is pictured above during her relocation

A video of Romeo taken last month at Miami Seaquarium went viral showing the 67-year-old manatee, who has been there since 1956, circling in a worse-for-wear pool. Romeo is pictured being placed into this new home

'Today is a very big day,' said Melissa Nau, the senior director of animal health at ZooTampa. 'Manatees are in the hearts of so many Floridians.' Clarity is pictured being placed into the water

Each animal was set to undergo a complete health assessment over a 24-hour period, which usually involves taking blood samples and possibly pain medication, said Melissa Nau, the senior director of animal health at ZooTampa. Clarity is pictured being released into the water

Clarity being hoisted up using a crane to be delivered to her new home

Romeo and Juliet's relocation to ZooTampa was part of a bigger operation that state and federal wildlife officials say had been in planning for months between the government and Florida-wide private care facilities. Juliet is pictured being lowered into the water

Each animal was set to undergo a complete health assessment over a 24-hour period, which usually involves taking blood samples and possibly pain medication, Nau said.

Their relocation to ZooTampa was part of a bigger operation that state and federal wildlife officials say had been in planning for months between the government and Florida-wide private care facilities.

Video of Romeo swimming forlornly in his tank - estimated to be just 30ft wide - went viral earlier this month as surfing legend Kelly Slater backed a campaign for his release, which quickly gained more than 20,000 signatures.

The video, shot by campaign group UrgentSeas, pans over a desolate area of the park before zooming in on the solitary figure, spinning in circles in the murky waters.

UrgentSeas co-founder Phil Demers claims that Romeo had been kept alone in the tank in 'Pompano pools', which are closed to the public, since at least last April.

Romeo was moved after an outcry from animal right activist over his living conditions.

US Fish and Wildlife Services confirmed that they would be transporting Romeo from the center, where the 'loneliest whale in the world', Lolita, died earlier this year.

A spokesperson for the service said last week: 'The US Fish and Wildlife Service takes the health and welfare of manatees in managed care seriously.

'The Service is working with an experienced team of manatee rescue and rehabilitation experts through the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership to assist with the transport effort of manatees from Miami Seaquarium.'

Romeo had been kept at the Seaquarium since 1956 and campaigners said he had been alone since at least April of this year

The manatees at the facility were being moved so that they could receive appropriate care, with three of them appearing to be experiencing health issues.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service said that transporting the animals would be very risky, but necessary for the animals' future wellbeing.

Manatees are semi-social animals and 'suffer psychologically when not living in pairs or groups' - but Romeo had long been separated from his partner, and the mother of his offspring, Juliet, and had been alone since his other companions were released.

It is not clear exactly how long Romeo had been kept isolated, or why he couldn't be with Juliet, but Demers said: 'He was separated from Juliet a long time ago - I think it's a breeding issue, they aren't allowed to breed manatees.'

In an update, Demers said: 'US Fish and Wildlife are expected to relocate Romeo, Juliet and another manatee from the Miami Seaquarium to an MPR (Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership) facility in the coming days. Can't happen soon enough.'

Drone footage showed Romeo alone in a small concrete tank in an 'off-limits' area of the park

Sharing the original video online, Demers wrote: 'This video was taken on November 13, 2023, above the Miami Seaquarium.

'Romeo, a 67-year-old manatee lives in complete isolation in ever-deteriorating conditions. We must fight for Romeo!'

Romeo's plight was picked up by 11-time World Surf League champ Kelly Slater who called for people to put pressure on the Florida aquarium to release him.

Slater told DailyMail.com: 'I'm always confused and sad seeing these stories. For context, I don't know how the manatee ended up in the aquarium or if there is a reason it can't be returned to the wild but my thoughts on it are that manatees are very social creatures and very free, roaming large distances across the state of Florida.

'They're the gentlest creatures in the world and such a great and recognizable mammal in our state.

'It seems the humane thing to do to return these animals to their rightful place in nature, along with cetaceans of all kinds which shouldn't be in captivity at all unless terribly injured and unable to return to the wild and have quality of life.

'I grew up swimming with and admiring manatees my whole life and it would be a feel good story to see this manatee returned safely to live out its days in the wild.'

Surfing legend Kelly Slater backed the campaign to free Romeo

Romeo had been at the Miami Seaquarium since 1956. He is now 67 years old

The Miami Seaquarium says on its website that Romeo and his partner Juliet were 'rescued in 1956' and are 'local celebrities' at the aquarium where they had lived for 66 years.

Romeo's partner, Juliet, with whom he shared multiple calves, was still at the Seaquarium, but she was kept in a separate 'celebrity' tank on the main site.

But Demers claims that Romeo had been kept 'all alone' in the 'off-limits' Pompano pools that are closed to the public.

He added: 'Manatees are semi-social animals and suffer psychologically when not living in pairs or groups. But Romeo remains all alone. All the time.'

Manatees can live up to an estimated age of 60 in the wild, but it is possible for them to live longer in captivity.

In a report release earlier this month, the USDA cited the Miami Seaquarium for alleged insufficient animal care and staffing problems - and slammed them for their treatment of Romeo.

The report said that Romeo had been housed alone in his enclosure because the three other manatees he was living with were released back into the wild in the spring.

And despite numerous attempts to acquire another manatee the Seaquarium did not meet the requirements to do so.

The report noted: 'Although numerous attempts have been made to acquire another manatee it was determined the facility did not yet meet the requirements to receive another animal.

'Manatees are semi-social animals and do better medically and psychologically when they are housed in pairs or groups.'

Footage from April showed Romeo alone in a tank in the Pompano pools

He could be seen swimming into the shaded area of the tank, while two other tanks in the off-limits area stood empty

In March last year, the lease for the site was transferred to the Dolphin Company. Since then, the USDA has issued a series of violation warnings, and findings of animals hurt and in distress.

The most recent report accused the aquarium of issues with inadequate veterinary care, animal handling, facilities and critical separation.

Dolphins were found to have eaten concrete and zip ties, while one had broken ribs after an attack.

The report said the facility had 'failed to provide proper equipment or services to ensure adequate veterinary care' and failed 'to maintain a marine mammal enclosure in good repair and protect the animals from injury'.

Despite the report, the November footage showed Romeo was still alone in the tiny pool surrounded by three other empty and stained tanks.

Manatees are classed as a threatened species in the US with just 7,500 in the wild in Florida.

The slow-moving creatures swim and rest in very shallow water and are very curious, making them vulnerable to injury by boat propellers.

Lolita, the 'loneliest whale in the world' and the star attraction at Miami Seaquarium for decades, died aged 57

Experts and concerned individuals had long protested against Lolita's conditions in captivity, including the size of her 80-foot long and 35-foot wide tank

Romeo was being kept in the same Seaquarium in which Lolita the orca died in March this year.

Lolita was once dubbed the 'loneliest whale in the world' and died aged 57, just months before her scheduled retirement.

Experts and concerned individuals had long protested against Lolita's conditions in captivity, including the size of her 80-foot long and 35-foot wide tank, the smallest of its kind in the US.

Just 10 years after Lolita arrived at the aquarium, her companion Hugo died of an aneurysm that was caused by repeated head trauma, earning her the title of the world's loneliest whale.

Lolita was the oldest whale in captivity at the age of 56 and performed until 2022 when she was finally retired after falling ill.
A growing number of brazen drug dealers are using QR codes stuck on lampposts to try and sell cannabis near schools, universities and police stations.

Dozens of black and gold stickers advertising 'get your delivery' have been put up around various streets in the cathedral city of Worcester.

In recent weeks, hundreds of the stickers have also appeared on lamp posts, bollards and other street furniture in Orpington and Bexleyheath in South-East London.

The technology is commonly used by retailers to direct customers to online stores. However, dealers are now using the digital codes to grab new business from the streets of the UK.

When an observer points their smartphone camera at the code, it provides a link straight to a glossy online drug supermarket, featuring cannabis products with false claims of its products being legal.

Dozens of black and gold stickers advertising 'Get your delivery' have been put up around various streets in the cathedral city of Worcester

When an observer points their smartphone camera at the code, it provides a link straight to a glossy online drug supermarket, featuring cannabis products with false claims of its products being legal

While some cannabis-derived products are now legal, those containing anything beyond trace levels of THC remain Class B illegal drugs

It also invites would-be customers to follow them on the encrypted chat app Telegram, which popular with criminals.

Labour councillor Robyn Norfolk, who represents St John's in Worcester, said: 'It is shocking for them to go up near schools.

'I have heard of QR codes being used to link to scams, but not drugs.

'We have regular complaints about users smoking cannabis across the city. It is concerning.'

The website offers a range of cannabis products containing high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive element of the plant.

While some cannabis-derived products are now legal, those containing anything beyond trace levels of THC remain Class B illegal drugs.

Payment is encouraged in untraceable cryptocurrency and bank transfers, with the company saying delivery via the Royal Mail is often complete within 24 hours.

Worcester mum-of-two Faye Roberts, 37, said: 'The audacity of it is frightening really.

'I can't believe how openly they are advertising it, just like it's any regular product and even more concerning is them cropping up near schools and parks.

'They are targeting our children and that shouldn't be allowed. They need to come down as soon as possible.

'Police need to do something. Surely they can be traced via these websites or they were caught on CCTV putting them up.'

In recent weeks, hundreds of the stickers have also appeared on lamp posts, bollards and other street furniture in Orpington and Bexleyheath in South-East London

Dealers are now using the digital codes to grab new business from the streets of the UK

Payment is encouraged in untraceable cryptocurrency and bank transfers, with the company saying delivery via the Royal Mail is often complete within 24 hours

West Mercia Police said the force advises people not to scan the QR code, even if someone is curious about what the code is.

The development comes just weeks after it was revealed that fraudsters were using fake QR codes in hundreds of frighteningly simple scams.

One woman lost 13,000 after she scanned a QR code villains had stuck over a genuine one at a railway station car park in North Yorkshire. She thought she was paying for parking.

Worcester Safer Neighbourhood Inspector Tanya Beckett said: 'We have been made aware of stickers being placed on street furniture and bins in some parts of Worcester promoting the sale of Cannabis.

'West Mercia Police is dedicated to tackling drug supply in the community.

'I would like to reassure the public that we are now investigating this issue and I advise that people don't attempt to scan the attached QR code.

'I would urge anyone who has any information about these stickers to contact us.'

The website wrongly suggests that THC-packed substances such as skunk and cannabis vapes are legal, while at the same time promising those ordering a delivery that 'the contents of your parcel remain confidential'.

A spokesperson for Worcester City Council said: 'We have reported this matter to the police who are investigating.

'Members of our street scene team are now out and about removing the stickers.'
But just a day later, he flew to the Middle East to greet UAE and Saudi officials

The despot stood 70ft away from them at the Kremlin, and refused to socialise

Vladimir Putin flew into the Middle East to greet UAE officials today, after he bizarrely snubbed several top diplomats from Europe, including Britain's ambassador to Russia, just yesterday.

The despot said he could not greet Nigel Casey, the UK's top representative in Russia, and other top foreign diplomats in Moscow when he formally accepted their credentials on arrival in Russia as he had COVID, choosing to keep a distance of at least 70ft as he made a speech on Tuesday.

Despite his worries about 'sanitary' issues, he flew to the UAE on a rare visit with a packed schedule outside the former USSR.

Putin told the envoys yesterday, including the new ambassadors of Germany and Australia: 'Unfortunately, for sanitary reasons, we cannot talk more, socialise.

But just a day later, he arrived in the United Arab Emirates - where huge sums of Russian money has poured since the war started.

Vladimir Putin (pictured) was today seen flying to the UAE on a rare visit with a packed schedule outside the former USSR

He gave a speech to several top diplomats at the Kremlin, but refused to be near them and did not socialise with them

But that same day, Putin was seen in close contact with several people in a Russian school

He was seen with schoolchildren, and told them a bizarre story about his mother Maria

Putin was seen shaking hands with President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan upon arrival at the airport in Abu Dhabi today.Putin is also due to arrive in Saudi Arabia later today, where he is said to be meeting Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the first time since October 2019.Both countries have said they do not recognise the arrest warrant for child abduction during the invasion of Ukraine, issued by the International Criminal Court.He is understood to be meeting with the oil states to discuss the OPEC group of leading oil producers, as well the Israel-Hamas war and his invasion of Ukraine.

Before he flew out, Putin was also seen getting close to dozens of people, including children, on a trip to a school in Pyatigorsk in Vologda region.

On his trip, he revealed how his mother Maria had ordered him into the corner of their cramped Soviet flat for being naughty when he was three or four.

Putin is also due to arrive in Saudi Arabia later today, where he is said to be meeting Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the first time since October 2019

Putin was seen in close proximity to dozens of people, including children, on a trip to a school in Pyatigorsk in Vologda region

He made the diplomats stand in a line 70ft away from him, and refused to socialise with them afterwards

On his trip, he revealed how his mother Maria had ordered him into the corner of their cramped Soviet flat for being naughty when he was three or four

Diplomats from around the world were in the Kremlin to greet the despot yesterday

Many have accused Putin of employing body doubles so his enemies don't know where he truly is at any time

READ MORE: US seeks extradition of Bosnian man for helping son of Russian governor close to Putin escape house arrest in Italy days before he was to be flown to the US for stealing military technology Advertisement

Bizarrely he called it his 'fondest children memory'.

The dictator said: 'It's a pretty personal thing, I'll just tell you the beginning of the story.

'My mother put me in a corner, I don't even remember why, and for some time she walked around, looking menacingly at me.

'She asked: 'Are you going to ask for forgiveness or not?'

'I will tell you one-to-one how this story ended. I'll just leave some parts out.

'Anyway, it ended with her kissing me, pulling me out of that corner, and that was the end of the story.

'But the way she did it, that's a separate conversation.'

At the same event, he signed a book - with a signature that appeared similar but not identical to his previous elaborate autographs.

This amid a flurry of rumours that a body double - or doppelganger - of Putin is often used when the Russian president is required to meet people close up.

Putin was seen meeting his education minister Sergei Kravtsov who proposed extending propaganda to nursery schools.

Patriotic movement Eaglets of Russia - already with 2.5 million primary school-aged children - should feature in kindergartens, he said.

'We propose to scale this project to preschool age,' said Kravtsov.

'Experts, methodologists and scientists sayEaglets should be implemented in kindergartens.'

Putin told him: 'You are right, of course, education begins not only in kindergarten, but of course earlier, probably at the birth of a child.'

In another session, Putin met Stavropol Governor Vladimir Vladimirov.

MailOnline has contacted the UK's Foreign Office for comment.
A prolific paedophile who dressed up as a police officer to capture an innocent 13-year-old boy has been jailed for five years.

Robert Byrne, 56, took the lost child from a shop in Liverpool city centre in February 27 this year after he previously told its owner he was an undercover officer.

The 13-year-old victim had run away from where he was living with his grandmother and travelled on his own to Liverpool, hoping to find his mother's house in the Everton area. However he ended up lost and scared in the early hours and turned to the shopkeeper for help.

Meanwhile, Byrne, who has convictions dating back to the 1980s, was prowling the area wearing a bullet proof vest and a utility belt, holding what appeared to be a wireless radio.

Liverpool Crown Court heard on Tuesday that Byrne, of Fountains Road in Birkenhead, was flagged down by the shopkeeper at around 3.10am, who had been previously led to believe Byrne was an undercover officer.

The court heard Byrne told the shopkeeper he would 'radio in' the lost boy, and walked away with him towards McDonald's at Lime Street, telling him 'I was due to finish early but now I have to deal with you'.

Robert Byrne, 56, has been jailed for five years after he dressed up as a police officer to capture an innocent 13-year-old boy

Byrne took the boy to a McDonald's on Lord Street, where he bought him a hot chocolate

They then walked to the McDonald's on Lord Street as the toilets at the Lime Street branch were locked, and Byrne bought the boy a hot chocolate, the court was told.

However while Byrne and the boy were sipping their drinks, the real police turned up before Byrne was able 'to form the intent to commit a sexual offence'.

Nicola Daley, prosecuting, told the court: 'When he saw [the 13-year-old boy], who was upset and trying to get the police to assist him to go home; in order to spend time with [the boy] alone he presented himself, both to the shopkeeper and [the boy], as someone who could assist in getting [the boy] to the police.

'By the way that he dressed and also by telling the shopkeeper that he would 'radio in' to the police, by fraud, he got [the boy] to go with him, away from the safety of the shop. His fraudulent activities vitiated the apparent consent or willingness of [the boy] to walk with him.

'There was no lawful reason or justification for taking him away from the shop and the court can be sure of that because he did not in fact contact the police himself at all to get them to come to help [the boy].

'Instead, thereafter, he preyed upon [the boy's] obvious vulnerability; i.e.. him being tired and cold by buying him a hot chocolate, again, to make him feel safe and thus ensure that [the boy] was willing to spend more time with him.'

Ms Daley said the prosecution acknowledged that no sexual offence had been able to take place before the police arrived.

However, she said: 'It is the prosecution case that after the defendant had bought [the boy] a hot chocolate, he had no intention of returning him to the police to be taken home.

'The prosecution submit that the court can safely infer this from the fact that, when walking towards the second McDonalds, the defendant told [the boy] that if anyone challenged why they were together, to tell them that he was his uncle.'

The court heard Byrne was already the subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) at the time of the offences, which prohibited him from spending time with underage boys.

Liverpool Crown Court heard on Tuesday that while Byrne and the boy were sipping their drinks, the real police turned up before Byrne was able 'to form the intent to commit a sexual offence'

When he was arrested police realised that Byrne was a prolific offender, with convictions on his record dating back to the 1980s including indecent assault, serious sexual assault, breaching SHPOs, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, sexual assault and making indecent images.

The court also heard he had previously been caught in Manchester impersonating a police officer in 2003, when he befriended a boy near Piccadilly train station, breaching a SHPO.

Byrne initially denied the offences and was charged with kidnap, impersonating a police officer with intent to commit a sexual offence, and breaching a SHPO. He pleaded guilty to breaching his SHPO in March, and then admitted kidnap on the day of his trial on August 7. The impersonation charge was left to lie on the file.

Christopher Stables, defending, told the court the defendant had not committed any sexual offence against the boy and there was no evidence he had 'formed the intention' to commit a specific sexual offence at the time the police arrived.

Judge David Swinnerton, passing sentence, told Byrne he had 'lifetime of committing sexual offences against teenage boys'.

He said: 'The inference I draw is that the reason you wanted to spend time with [the boy] and kidnapped him is that you have a sexual interest in young boys. That was why you wanted to spend time with him.

'That is not to go as far as saying you'd formed an intent to commit a sexual offence at that point.'

Byrne was jailed for five years and four months with an extended five year licence period. The sentence means that Byrne must serve at least two thirds of the jail term behind bars before he can apply for parole, and will only be released early if a Parole Board deem he is no longer a risk.

His SHPO was also extended indefinitely.

Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Inspector Victoria Tinsley, from the Sex Offender Unit, said: 'This was very disturbing incident where Byrne preyed up on the young victim's circumstances of being vulnerable and upset.

'What was also alarming was that Byrne had previously told retailers that he was a police officer working undercover. This showed the lengths his predatory behaviour would go to in order to win the trust members of the public by impersonating a police officer.

'Thankfully genuine police officers quickly tracked Byrne down, and the young victim was taken safely home before any potential harm came to him.'
Omid Scobie's new book Endgame sold just under 6,500 copies in Britain during its first five days on scale despite a blizzard of publicity - and has now plunged to 215 on the Amazon 'bestsellers' list.

The hatchet-job against the Royal Family has been widely pilloried even by normally sympathetic media outlets like the New York Times, which described one chapter as 'like a press release cooked up by ChatGPT'.

Derided as 'not all that different from what Harry presented in ''Spare''', most reaction to the book has focused on its Dutch language edition, which named two family members accused by the Duchess of Sussex of 'unconscious bias'.

Yet even this controversy has done little to boost its success, with Nielsen putting British sales figures for the first five days at 6,448.

By contrast, Scobie's first book on the Sussexes, Finding Freedom, sold 31,000 in its first five days while Harry's autobiography Spare sold 467,183 - making it the fastest selling non-fiction book since records began in 1998.

Omid Scobie was interviewed about his new book on ITV's This Morning last Thursday

A copy of Omid Scobie's book Endgame on display inside a book store in London last Friday

Endgame has now dropped to 215 in the Amazon bestseller list compared to 174 yesterday

Endgame has now dropped to 215 in the Amazon bestseller list compared to 174 yesterday.

The book is now in the table behind activity book Things To Do While You Poo On The Loo and children's titles such as Dormouse Has a Cold, the Beano annual, Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Stick Man.

It also trails biographies from Britney Spears, Matthew Perry and Chris Kamara; and cookbooks from Mary Berry, Rick Stein and Tom Kerridge.

In the same Amazon list in the US, Endgame was at 312th today - below How to Catch a Dinosaur and The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

Amazon says its lists are a 'good indicator of how well a product is selling overall' but 'doesn't always indicate how well an item is selling in relation to similar items'.

The book's falling performance comes despite a huge amount of media coverage as well as TV interviews conducted by Mr Scobie for the BBC and ITV in the UK and ABC in the US.

The author has also given interviews to publications including The Times, Evening Standard, Independent, Tatler, People, Elle.com and Paris March.

Meanwhile the book was not on prominent display at London's oldest bookshop, Hatchards on Piccadilly - with only one copy put aside on order, reported The Guardian.

The newspaper added that about 14 copies were stacked on a table near the entrance of the nearby Waterstones, but there was 'limited interest there too'.

Mr Scobie has been widely described as Meghan Markle's mouthpiece  but neither she nor Prince Harry has so far spoken up in defence of the royals over highly damaging accusations of racism.

The Dutch translation of the book has been pulled after it named Charles and Kate as the royals alleged to have asked what colour Prince Archie's skin might be before he was born.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla attend church at Sandringham in Norfolk yesterday

King Charles III is expected to consult Prince William this week to discuss their response to the storm after Buckingham Palace said it is 'considering all options' when it comes to a response.

READ MORE King Charles and beaming Queen Camilla attend church service Advertisement

The Sussexes have not commented publicly on the race row but a source close to Meghan said 'it was not leaked to Mr Scobie by anyone in her camp'.

It also emerged yesterday that the Dutch edition of Endgame quoted a source close to the Sussexes who branded William 'heartless'  another inflammatory passage that is not in the UK version.

Referring to claims that the Prince of Wales secured a flight to Balmoral without Harry when the Queen was dying, the translation cited the source as saying: 'It was heartless to deny him the chance to go to Scotland to say goodbye to his grandmother. This was not the time to be petty.'

A 'family source' also claims that William 'purposely ignored' Harry when the Queen died and 'didn't want to help' him, according to the Dutch edition.

It said: 'He was, and is, still angry because Harry revealed private issues... He thinks that is unforgivable.'

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle with their children Archie and Lilibet in December 2021

The original 'racism' claim was made in the Sussexes' infamous 2021 Oprah Winfrey interview

William, Harry, Meghan and Charles speak together at Westminster Abbey in March 2019

The Dutch version also refers to the King's 'cash for honours' scandal last year, with a 'source' saying 'people inside the institution are concerned that 'more stories will follow'.'

None of these claims appeared in the English version, The Sun on Sunday reported.

It comes after Meghan admitted under oath that she authorised a senior aide to brief Scobie for his earlier book about the Sussexes, called Finding Freedom.
To turn supply chains into chains of win-win cooperation

13:30, December 06, 2023 By He Yin ( People's Daily

The recently-concluded first China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) achieved fruitful results. While holding more than 360 matchmaking and exchange activities, it was joined by over 15,000 participants and has delivered 23 research reports, declarations, and standards.

According to incomplete statistics, more than 200 cooperation agreements and intended deals were signed at the event, involving a total amount of over 150 billion yuan ($21.19 billion).

Photo taken on Nov. 29, 2023 shows a floral decoration outside the venue of the first China International Supply Chain Expo held in Beijing. (People's Daily Online/Chen Xiaogen)

As another global public good initiated by China, the CISCE has sent a strong message that China is taking concrete actions to maintain the stability and smooth operation of industrial and supply chains. It showcased China's determination and confidence in continuously promoting high-level opening-up.

The first CISCE was a globally significant event characterized by high standards, quality, and level. It aimed to turn supply chains into chains of win-win international cooperation.

Many exhibitors took the expo as a platform to launch their products. A total of 62 representative new products, technologies, and services made their debut at the event.

The CISCE provided an important opportunity for developing countries to showcase their advantages in industrial and supply chains, as well as a platform for these countries' enterprises to integrate into the global industrial and supply chains.

At the expo, China released the Global Supply Chain Promotion Report and launched the Beijing Initiative for the Connectivity of Industrial and Supply Chains, contributing Chinese wisdom and solutions to maintaining the stability and smooth operation of global industrial and supply chains.

International observers widely recognize the groundbreaking significance of the first CISCE, saying it has sent a signal that China will participate more deeply in the construction of a global system of industrial and supply chains.

A charging robot is exhibited at the first China International Supply Chain Expo held in Beijing, Nov. 29, 2023. (People's Daily Online/Chen Xiaogen)

The CISCE integrates trade promotion, investment cooperation, innovation aggregation, and mutual learning. It aims to build an open international cooperation platform that connects upstream, midstream, and downstream industries, facilitates communication between large, medium, and small-sized enterprises, promotes collaboration among universities, enterprises and research institutions, and encourages interaction between Chinese and foreign companies. This event vividly showcases China's continuous efforts in advancing high-level opening-up.

During the event, many exhibitors said that China's industrial and supply chain foundations are solid, providing multinational companies with strong confidence in further development in China.

As a major trading partner of over 140 countries and regions, China remains committed to reform and opening-up, providing the world with market opportunities, cooperation opportunities, policy opportunities, and innovation opportunities.

In the first three quarters of this year, China's GDP grew by 5.2 percent year-on-year, ranking among the highest among major economies in the world. Recently, several international organizations and financial institutions have raised their growth forecasts for China's economy this year.

Against the backdrop of a difficult global economic recovery, China's economy has maintained a stable and positive momentum, further strengthening the confidence of all parties that "investing in China is investing in the future," and making deep involvement in the Chinese market a prevailing consensus in the international community.

Both history and reality have proven that the whole world will benefit when cooperation on global industrial and supply chains remains stable and continues to deepen, otherwise the globe will generally bear losses when cooperation on the chains is hindered and stagnates.

A model displaying hydrogen production is exhibited at the first China International Supply Chain Expo held in Beijing, Nov. 29, 2023. (People's Daily Online/Chen Xiaogen)

As Rebeca Grynspan, secretary-general of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, pointed out, the world needs to work together, support multilateralism and dialogue, rather than engaging in unilateral actions. China firmly opposes protectionism and various forms of "decoupling and supply chain disruption," and promotes trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, with an aim to establish a set of global economic and trade rules that is fair, reasonable and transparent.

The hosting of the CISCE reflected the urgent desire of the global business community to maintain the stability and smooth operation of industrial and supply chains. It also demonstrated China's commitment to playing a leading role in this regard.

African Union Permanent Representative to China, Rahamtalla Osman Elnor, said China champions multilateralism. The participation of numerous Chinese and foreign companies and institutions in the first CISCE showed that everyone recognizes the importance of solidarity and cooperation. "We must believe in multilateralism," he noted.

Linky, the mascot of the CISCE, symbolizes the connections in the supply chain. Its triangle-shaped body stands for the stability and security of industrial and supply chains.

The CISCE is an event for China and for the world. China is willing to work together with all parties to leverage this platform to make global industrial and supply chains more resilient, efficient, and dynamic, and make greater contributions to promoting global economic recovery and development.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
An ex-partner at one of Britain's top law firms has been ordered to sell his 4million London house after a judge found he lied and 'attempted to mislead the court' during a multi-million pound fight with a Saudi princess.

Ronald Gibbs, a former partner at Linklaters, has been locked in 'warfare' with Saudi royals after agreeing to set up and manage a $25m investment fund for Princess Deema Bint Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in 2011.

Over subsequent years, Gibbs sank the money into shares in a boat-building company he controlled.

Other money was splashed out on a 3.3m euro apartment in Montenegro and a 17m 40-metre superyacht, which he himself sailed.

The princess and her brother HRH Prince Khaled Bin Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud later complained that he had failed to return the princess's millions after being first asked to do so in 2013.

Ronald Gibbs outside London's High Court, where a judge ordered the sale of his 4million home in order to repay funds to Princess Deema of Saudi Arabia

The judge found that Gibbs and his ex-wife Sandra had 'colluded in an attempt to mislead the court' by producing a fake deed of trust in a bid to prove that 75% of the value of the house (pictured) was owned by Mrs Gibbs and the former couple's three children

The former Linklaters partner sank the money into shares in a boat-building company he controlled, a 3.3million apartment in Montenegro and a 17million 40-metre superyacht, (pictured) which he himself sailed, the High Court heard

He was subsequently sued by the princess for breaching a 2018 settlement agreement in which he agreed to sell off the yacht and other luxury assets and pay her money back.

The princess's main claim over her millions has yet to hit court, but last week she sued Mr Gibbs in a separate strand of the case, seeking to make him hand over the 2.2m in interim damages and costs he currently owes her.

Now a judge has ordered that a five-bedroom house Mr Gibbs owns in southwest London - valued online at around 4m - must be sold and the proceeds used to pay off the princess.

The judge, Master John Linwood, also found that Mr Gibbs and his ex-wife Sandra Gibbs had 'colluded in an attempt to mislead the court' by producing a fake deed of trust in a bid to prove that 75% of the value of the house was owned by Mrs Gibbs and the former couple's three children.

The court heard that until 2006 Mr Gibbs was an asset finance lawyer who rose to become a partner at Linklaters, one of the 'magic circle' of London's five biggest multinational law firms

In 2011, after quitting the firm, he agreed to manage the $25m investment pot handed to the princess by her father, former Saudi defence minister Sultan bin Abdulaziz, on his death.

The money was invested in a swish apartment at the Regent Hotel in Porto, Montenegro, superyacht company Silver Arrows Marine Limited and a 17m customised 40-metre Sunseeker 131 superyacht, named Elysium after the idyllic realm of the afterlife in Greek mythology.

The company, whose past projects have included collaborating with Mercedes Benz on a unique yacht based on the lines of one of their cars, is controlled by experienced yachtsman Mr Gibbs, who has also taken the helm of Elysium.

Simon Atrill KC, for the princess, said Mr Gibbs had in 2018 signed an agreement that he would liquidate the investment portfolio by selling the assets, but failed to do so.

After summary judgment was entered against him for breach of that agreement earlier this year, he was ordered to pay 582,077.49 interim damages and 1.64m costs to the princess and her lawyers.

Money was also invested in a swish apartment at the Regent Hotel in Porto, Montenegro

Mr Gibbs claimed he was 'living hand to mouth' due to the freezing order imposed on him in 2021 and no longer has control over the yacht or access to the Montenegro apartment

Mr Atrill asked High Court judge John Linwood to force Mr Gibbs to sell the 4m property and pay off the bills with the proceeds.

He told the judge Mr Gibbs has 'never repaid a penny' of the money, despite 'accepting his obligation to do so...and having the means to do so'.

Mr Gibbs, backed by his ex-wife, who was joined as a defendant to the claim, argued that three-quarters of the house was not his and that he had signed a trust deed 'for inheritance tax purposes,' handing 75% of the beneficial interest in the property to her and their kids, despite the couple having split up six years before.

The former couple showed the court copies of a trust deed they said proved that Mr Gibbs had signed most of the house over to his ex and kids.

But Mr Atrill told the judge that after 'its authenticity was disputed' the original copy of the deed 'was then mysteriously destroyed shortly before this trial, and so was not provided for inspection'.

Mrs Gibbs told the judge: 'I can't find the original trust deed, but have provided certified copies,' adding that she had kept it 'safe in a drawer,' but that it had nevertheless been lost.

The judge went on to find that Mrs Gibbs 'did collude with Mr Gibbs in an attempt to mislead the court as to the beneficial ownership of the property' through the bid to pass off the fake trust deed.

'Mr Gibbs gave his evidence with bluster swagger and confidence,' he said.

'However I couldn't always believe what he said was true. He was prone at times to evasion and exaggeration.

'Mr Gibbs would also tailor his evidence especially as to his recollections to avoid committing himself or otherwise he would deny seeing something.

'I have no hesitation in finding that the deed is not an authentic deed and was not created in 2012.

'The burden of disproving that was on Mr and Mrs Gibbs and they have done nothing to disprove that.

'Mr Gibbs owns the property legally and beneficially and the deed of trust is not an authentic document.'

Mrs Gibbs also made a claim to a portion of the property's value under the Married Women's Property Act 1882, claiming she had looked after the property when Mr Gibbs was abroad.

But the judge refused that claim, saying: 'They separated some six years before the property was bought. For some 11 years, Mr Gibbs maintained the property and received the rent. Mrs Gibbs had little input into the maintenance and management.'

Asking him to delay the sale of the house, Mr Gibbs told the judge that there is a 12million euro offer currently on the table for the yacht.

'I would suggest that sufficient time be given for the yacht to be sold and the debt paid in full,' Mr Gibbs said.

But Samuel Rabinowitz, representing the princess at the judgment hearing, told the judge: 'The claimant has been waiting ten years for payment. During that time, there have been a number of promises and it is very difficult to trust anything Mr Gibbs says. The fact that now there is another promise can't be a reason for more delay.

'The resistance to these proceedings was on the basis of something that was made up, on a deed of trust that the court has found was not authentic.'

'I agree,' said the judge, adding that there had been a 'litany of excuses' from Mr Gibbs and that 'not a penny has been paid'.

'This is a simple refusal to pay the claimant. The circumstances overwhelmingly call for an order for sale,' he said.

The judge ordered the house to be sold forthwith, saying: 'Mr Gibbs gave evidence that 50m worth of assets could be liquidated (but) there is no evidence before me of (other) saleable realisable assets in this jurisdiction..'

He also ordered Mr and Mrs Gibbs to pay the princess' costs of the latest hearing, which Mr Rabinowitz put at 498,000.

The sum of the costs to be paid will be assessed at another hearing.
Rishi Sunak over-ruled advice from the Home Office to bring in tough new restrictions on Brits bringing their foreign husbands and wives into the UK after being told it would be overturned in the courts, it was claimed today.

Under plans unveiled on Monday, British residents will have to earn 38,700 a year before they are allowed to bring spouses and partners to live with them here, more than double the current threshold of 18,600.

The change, due to come into effect in the spring, has faced criticism including Tory MPs, who accused the PM of 'putting a price on love'.

The Home Office warned that the current threshold had only just cleared the Supreme Court when it was brought in in 2012 and that the new level was likely to be thrown out under Human Rights Act provisions about family reunions, the Times reported.

In addition, the Government has been warned by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) that it risks damaging the UK wedding industry by forcing the cancellation of nuptials next summer.

Madeleine Sumption, director of the Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford, who sits on the MAC, said: 'Assuming it comes into effect in the spring, it will affect people planning weddings now as well as people who have been married for many years but are abroad and want to come back to the UK.'

Last night senior Tory backbencher Alicia Kearns, chairwoman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, questioned the change, saying the 'party of the family' should not be 'banning families'.

Madeleine Sumption, director of the Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford, who sits on the MAC, said: 'Assuming it comes into effect in the spring, it will affect people planning weddings now as well as people who have been married for many years but are abroad and want to come back to the UK.'

Net migration hit a record 745,000 in 2022, although it is estimated to have fallen to 672,000 in the year to June 2023

Tory ex-minister Gavin Barwell joined a backlash against the move, branding it 'morally wrong... to say only the wealthiest can fall in love, marry someone and bring them to the UK

Under a new five-point plan to slash net migration, the Prime Minister is raising the minimum income for family visas to 38,700 - more than double the current threshold of 18,600 - from next Spring.

It has prompted claims that poorer Britons will no longer be able to live together with their foreign spouses in the UK.

Tory former minister Gavin Barwell joined a growing backlash against the move.

He branded it 'morally wrong and unConservative to say that only the wealthiest can fall in love, marry someone and then bring them to the UK'.

But No10 defended the measure and insisted Britons earning less than 38,700 may still live with foreign spouses in the UK in 'exceptional circumstances'.

The Home Office said that savings could also count towards the threshold level.

It has been claimed that hiking the minimum income level for family visas to 38,700 would mean three-quarters of Britons are too poor to marry a foreigner, if they wished to live together in the UK.

Median gross annual earnings for full-time employees in the UK was 34,963 in April 2023, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

It was also pointed out how senior Government figures - including Mr Sunak himself, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt and Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick - all married foreign spouses.
The Hard Left leader of pro-Palestinian marches in Britain defended chants by protesters that have been branded 'anti-Semitic' in an astonishing appearance in front of MPs.

Ben Jamal, director of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, defended the slogan 'from the river the sea, Palestine shall be free', which critics claim is a call for the destruction of Israel.

But in a fiery appearance at the Home Affairs Committee he suggested he himself chanted it, and said it was about how Palestinian have been 'deprived' of their rights.

He also launched an attack on Rishi Sunak and former home secretary Suella Braverman over their criticism of a march in London on Armistice day, accusing them of 'mobilising' the Far Right to confront those marching for a ceasefire in Gaza.

He had to be halted by committee chair Dame Diana Johnson when he defended the chanting. Mr Jamal said he was always asked if he 'tolerated' the chant on marches, adding: 'We don't tolerate it, we chant it. I speak as a Palestinian, this is a chant used by the vast majority of Palestinians.

Mr Jamal said he was always asked if he 'tolerated' the chant on marches, adding: 'We don't tolerate it, we chant it.'

Dame Diana interrupted him abruptly as he continued, saying: ' Mr Jamal I am chairing this meeting ... there are people who find that chant very offensive and believe that it is about the annihilation of the state of Israel.'

He also launched an attack on Rishi Sunak and former home secretary Suella Braverman over their criticism of a march in London on Armistice day, accusing them of 'mobilising' the Far Right to confront those marching for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of London on November 11 to demand a ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.

'It describes how their rights are deprived across all of historic Palestine, including if they are citizens of the state of Israel or living under military occupation. It in no shape or form seeks the abrogation of anybody else's rights.

'To suggest that it does is actually a way of saying ''let's not listen to Palestinians when they say what they mean, when they choose the words they say'''

Dame Diana interrupted him abruptly as he continued, saying: 'Mr Jamal I am chairing this meeting ... we understand your views on that, but equally there are people who find that chant very offensive and believe that it is about the annihilation of the state of Israel.'

Earlier he has criticised Mrs Braverman and the Pm over their comments attacking the November 10 march. Mrs Braverman, who was sacked last month, branded it a 'hate march'.

'We were marching on the Saturday but we did not want to disrupt preparations (for Remembrance Sunday),' Mr Jamal told MPs.

'The police knew that, it is inconceivable that the home secretary and the Prime Minister do not talk to the police. So when they made their statements they knew full well what they were saying was not true and the protests had no intention (of approaching the Cenotaph).

'What they then did was light a touchpaper that mobilised the far right ... it is up to them to say whether they did that intentionally or not.'

The PSC organised marches through London on the weekends after Hamas's October 7 terror attack.

In 2016, Ben Jamal became the first Palestinian appointed as a director. The son of an Anglican priest says his father's family of Christian Arabs were driven out of Jerusalem in 1948.

Mr Jamal's great-uncle, Shibli Jamal, was the secretary to a Palestinian delegation which came to Britain in 1921 to negotiate with Winston Churchill  then secretary of state for the colonies  to overturn the Balfour declaration, a British pledge to establish 'a national home for the Jewish people' in Palestine.
Images have emerged appearing to show Israeli forces preparing to flood the labyrinth of tunnels used by Hamas under the Gaza Strip with sea water.

Israel is said to have completed installing at least five pumps about a mile north of the Al-Shati refugee camp that could move thousands of cubic metres of water per hour - meaning they could flood the 300-mile network of tunnels within weeks.

Their plan would be to drive out the terrorists from the tunnels and make them inoperable by flooding the system with seawater from the Mediterranean Sea.

And now, images released by the IDF appear to show scores of Israeli soldiers setting up a series of black pipes on the sandy beaches of Gaza. Video shared by Israeli media also appears to show IDF soldiers working on the pipes while underground.

It emerged on Monday that Israel has assembled a system of large pumps it could use to flood Hamas's vast network of tunnels under the Gaza Strip with sea water, according to US officials.

The tactic would enable Israel to destroy the tunnels and kill any Hamas terrorists hiding within them, the officials told the Wall Street Journal.

It was not clear whether Israel would consider using the pumps before all the Israeli hostages captured by Hamas terrorists on October 7 as any move to flood the tunnels would prove fatal for the captives.

And now, images released by the IDF appear to show scores of Israeli soldiers setting up a series of black pipes on the sandy beaches of Gaza

Video shared by Israeli media also appears to show IDF soldiers working on the pipes while underground

Video shared by Israeli media also appears to show IDF soldiers working on the pipes while underground

Israel is said to have completed installing at least five pumps about a mile north of the Al-Shati refugee camp that could move thousands of cubic metres of water per hour - meaning they could flood the 300-mile network of tunnels within weeks

Hamas has previously said it has hidden the hostages in 'safe places and tunnels'.

But footage shared by Israeli media appeared to show Israeli soldiers filling up pipes and working on pumps underground.

And IDF Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi appeared to confirm the report that Israel aims to flood Hamas's tunnel network, calling it a 'good idea'.

'We are seeing a lot of underground infrastructure in Gaza, we knew there would be a lot. Part of the goal is to destroy this infrastructure,' Halevi said in response to a question about the report.

He said: 'We have various ways [to deal with the tunnels], I won't talk about specifics, but they include explosives to destroy, and other means to prevent Hamas operatives from using the tunnels to harm our soldiers.'

'Therefore, any means which give us an advantage over the enemy that [uses the tunnels], deprives it of this asset, is a means that we are evaluating using. This is a good idea, but I won't comment on its specifics,' Halevi added.

Israel first informed the United States of the option last month, the paper said, reporting that officials did not know how close Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government was to carrying out the plan.

An IDF spokesperson declined to comment on the plan to flood the tunnels but told the WSJ: 'The IDF is operating to dismantle Hamas's terror capabilities in various ways, using different military and technological tools.'

When asked about the report, a US official said it made sense for Israel to render the tunnels inoperable and that the country was exploring a range of ways to do that.

The Hamas terrorists operate in 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 worse - 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 IDF would still need to deploy thousands of troops to sweep through the 'Gaza Metro' to neutralise every last Hamas fighter.

But that is no easy task. Subterranean fighting is notoriously lethal work, especially when Israeli soldiers are fighting against heavily armed Hamas terrorists who know every hiding place and have access to a stash of rockets, grenades and guns.

One way to avoid what could be a bloodbath for Israeli troops could be to flood the tunnels - and the IDF is considering such a move, according to US officials who spoke to WSJ.

The Israeli military told the US, its closest ally, of the option last month, prompting a discussion on how feasible it would be and the effect on the environment.

Images released by the IDF appear to show scores of Israeli soldiers setting up a series of black pipes on the sandy beaches of Gaza

Video shared by Israeli media also appears to show IDF soldiers working on the pipes while underground

An Israeli soldier walks through a tunnel underneath Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City on November 22

US officials said they didn't know how close Israel was to carrying out the plan, which isn't being ruled out by Israel.

Whilst a mission aimed at flooding the tunnels underneath Gaza with sea water could wipe out the terrorists hiding there, it would also put the lives of the 138 hostages held captive by Hamas at risk.

But it's not clear if Israel would even consider using the pumps before all the hostages are released.

And on top of this, any plan to wipe out the terrorists with a wall of sea water has its setbacks. The weekslong process that it would take to fill the labyrinth of tunnels could enable Hamas gunmen to move out before they are killed.

'We are not sure how successful pumping will be since nobody knows the details of the tunnels and the ground around them,' a person familiar with the plan said.

'It's impossible to know if that will be effective because we don't know how seawater will drain in tunnels no one has been in before.'

It comes as Israel continued to dismiss US calls to temper its ground invasion as Israeli troops began their bloody new phase of the war and pushed into Gaza's second-largest city where Hamas terrorist leaders are believed to be hiding.

Israeli forces were encircling the southern city of Khan Yunis today, fighting terrorists in intense street battles in some of the fiercest combat of the two-month war.

The focus of the conflict has shifted to the besieged territory's south following fierce fighting and bombardment that reduced much of the north to rubble and forced nearly two million people to flee their homes.

And despite Washington's desperate calls for Israel to prevent yet more bloodshed in Gaza and provide more aid, Israeli forces, backed by warplanes, reached the heart of Khan Younis yesterday and surrounded the city - trapping the thousands of exhausted civilians who had fled there.

The IDF aims to wipe out the Hamas leaders it believes are hiding in Khan Younis while using innocent civilians as human shields.

But the cost of the war continues to mount, with more than 16,248 Palestinians killed since the conflict broke out two months ago, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza.

Today, Israeli tanks, troops and bulldozers encircled the southern city after what the IDF said was the 'most intense day of fighting' since the war began.

Israeli air strikes obliterated buildings within Khan Younis today, with the IDF claiming it had killed several Hamas commanders in a strike near the Indonesia Hospital.

Hassan al-Qadi, a displaced Khan Yunis resident, said 'the whole city is suffering from destruction and relentless shelling.

'Many people arriving from northern Gaza are facing dire circumstances. Many are homeless and some are searching for their missing children.'

'We are not mere numbers. We are human beings,' he said, speaking in the southern city of Rafah.

Hamas and Islamic Jihad, another Palestinian terror group, said their fighters were battling Israeli troops early this morning in a bid to prevent them from breaking into Khan Younis and surrounding areas.

'Our forces are now encircling the Khan Yunis area in the southern Gaza Strip,' Israel's army chief Herzi Halevi said late Tuesday. 'We have secured many Hamas strongholds in the northern Gaza Strip, and now we are operating against its strongholds in the south.'

The fighting on Tuesday was 'the most intense day since the beginning of the ground operation' in late October, the army's Southern Command chief Major General Yaron Finkelman said.

The Israeli army said Wednesday it had struck about 250 targets in Gaza over the past 24 hours and that troops were 'continuing to locate weapons, underground shafts, explosives and additional military infrastructure'.

Meanwhile, Hamas' armed wing said it killed or wounded eight Israeli troops and destroyed 24 military vehicles on Tuesday. An Israeli military website listed two troop deaths for Tuesday and 83 since the ground operation began.

Israel continued to dismissed US calls to calm its ground invasion as Israeli troops began their bloody new phase of the war and pushed into Gaza 's second-largest city where Hamas terrorist leaders are believed to be hiding

Israeli troops are pictured here in the Gaza Strip, in this image released by the IDF today

Injured Palestinian children wait to receive medical treatment at Nasser Hospital after Israeli airstrike in Khan Yunis, Gaza on Tuesday

Injured Palestinian children wait to receive medical treatment at Nasser Hospital after Israeli airstrike in Khan Yunis, Gaza, on Tuesday

Israel declared war on Hamas after the terrorist group's October 7 attacks that killed 1,200 people and saw around 240 hostages taken. Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas and free the 138 hostages still held after scores were freed during a short-lived truce.

The United States, Israel's most important ally, has also ramped up calls for greater efforts to prevent civilian deaths in Gaza. But Israel paid no heed to Washington, as it continued with its bloody new phase of the war.

Indeed, Gaza health officials said many civilians were killed in an Israeli strike on houses in Deir al-Balah, north of Khan Younis. Dr Eyad Al-Jabri, head of the Shuhada Al-Aqsa Hospital there, told Reuters at least 45 people were killed. Reuters could not reach the area nor confirm the toll.

Meanwhile, areas in the central and northern Gaza Strip were still coming under bombardment on Wednesday, according to Hamas.

The Hamas-run health ministry said air strikes on the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza killed six people and injured 14 others.

Israel had previously told civilians in the north of the densely populated Gaza Strip to seek shelter in the south of the territory, with many fleeing to Khan Yunis believing it would be safer.

As the war expands, Israel has told people to move even further south, sparking 'panic, fear and anxiety', according to Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA.

People were being pushed into an area that is less than one-third of the Gaza Strip, with roads to the south clogged, he said.

International aid groups have condemned the succession of orders to flee from one area to another, saying that civilians were running out of options.

'Nowhere is safe in Gaza,' said United Nations humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths. 'Not hospital, not shelters, not refugee camps. No one is safe.'

Following demands to create areas where civilians could shelter, Israel's army published a map it said was intended to enable Gazans to 'evacuate from specific places for their safety if required'.

But the UN criticised the map on Tuesday, saying it was impossible to create safe zones for civilians to flee to inside Gaza.

'The so-called safe zones... are not scientific, they are not rational, they are not possible, and I think the authorities are aware of this,' said James Elder, spokesman for the UN children's agency UNICEF.

At Khan Younis' main Nasser hospital, the wounded arrived by ambulance, car, flatbed truck and donkey cart after what survivors described as a strike on a school being used as a shelter for the displaced.

Inside a ward, almost every inch of blood-splattered floor space was taken up by the wounded including small children, with medics hurrying from patient to patient while relatives wailed.

Two girls were being treated, still covered in dust from the collapse of the house that had buried their family.

'My parents are under the rubble,' sobbed one child. 'I want my mum, I want my mum, I want my family.'

The violence in Gaza 'now ranks amongst the worst assaults on any civilian population in our time and age', according to the Norwegian Refugee Council, which also warned of the dire public health consequences of the approaching winter.

Their belongings piled onto donkey carts, battered vehicles and camels, Gazans headed south to try to escape the expanding Israeli offensive.

An estimated 1.9 million people are displaced in Gaza - roughly three-quarters of the population, according to UN figures.

Amid continued international criticism of Gaza's plight, the United States, Israel's close ally, reiterated on Tuesday that Israel needed to do more to allow fuel and other aid into Gaza and reduce harm to civilians.

'The level of assistance that's getting in is not sufficient,' U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said at a press briefing. 'It needs to go up, and we've made that clear to the government of Israel.'

Israeli troops are pictured here in the Gaza Strip, in this image released by the IDF today

A Palestinian child, injured in an Israeli airstrike arrives at Nasser Medical Hospital on Wednesday in Khan Younis

Palestinians inspect the site of Israeli strikes, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Khan Younis on Wednesday

Palestinian children carry items as they walk at the site of Israeli strikes in Khan Younis on Wednesday

A picture taken from southern Israel near the border with the Gaza Strip on Wednesday shows an Israeli air force attack helicopter firing a missile at Gaza

Smoke rises in Gaza, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, as seen from southern Israel, on Wednesday

In northern Gaza, the Israeli military said it had encircled the Jabalia refugee camp and also raided a Hamas Internal Security Forces command and control centre. According to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, several people were killed and injured in Israeli strikes on Jabalia.

Fighting in Gaza resumed after the collapse on Friday of a Qatar-mediated truce that saw scores of Israeli and other hostages released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Qatar's ruler, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, said his country was 'constantly working to renew' the truce and denounced what he called 'shameful' international inaction over the war.

It comes as Israeli police said they are investigating alleged sexual crimes and Israel's justice ministry has said 'victims were tortured, physically abused, raped, burned alive, and dismembered'.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Tuesday that Hamas had repeatedly raped women and mutilated their bodies during its assault on southern Israel, citing survivors and witnesses.

'It is appalling,' he told a political fundraiser in Boston.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cited the claims of rape and other abuse in a meeting with families of returned hostages on Tuesday that some participants described as angry because of frustration over the government's handling of the situation.

'I heard stories that broke my heart... I heard and you also heard, about sexual assault and cases of brutal rape unlike anything,' Netanyahu said at a press conference.

The war has sparked fears of a wider regional conflict, with frequent exchanges of fire with Iran-backed Hezbollah across Israel's border with Lebanon.

A Lebanese soldier was killed by Israeli fire on a military post near the country's southern border Tuesday, the army said.

Israel's army acknowledged the incident, saying in a post on X that it had targeted a Hezbollah position in an effort 'to eliminate an imminent threat'.

The occupied West Bank has also seen a surge in violence.

Israeli troops raided Faraa refugee camp in the north of the territory early Wednesday, sparking clashes that killed two people, one of them aged 16, according to Palestinian news agency Wafa.

The latest deaths added to more than 250 people killed in the West Bank since October, according to Palestinian authorities.
The Work and Pensions Secretary today admitted the Government could begin snooping on the bank accounts of state pensioners in a bid to battle fraud and error.

Mel Stride told MPs it was 'not inconceivable' that new wide-ranging powers might be used to check on payments of the old-age benefit in the future.

This was despite the Cabinet minister acknowledging there is currently a 'very low level' of fraud and error within the administration of state pensions.

Mr Stride was quizzed by the House of Commons' Work and Pensions Committee amid a backlash over powers being sought in the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill.

MPs have raised the alarm about proposals for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to view benefit claimants' bank accounts for 'social security purposes'.

There are concerns this would allow ministers to view the banking details of any state pension recipients, whose payments are administered by DWP.

But Mr Stride this morning defended the measures as a means of driving down the 8billion-a-year cost of fraud and error in Britain's welfare system.

A senior official stressed DWP would 'not expect' to 'delve into' the bank accounts of pensioners, with the new powers primarily aimed at combating fraud in Universal Credit (UC) payments.

Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride admitted the Government could begin snooping on the bank accounts of state pensioners in a bid to battle fraud and error

Labour MP Sir Stephen Timms, the chair of the Commons' Work and Pensions Committee, about why ministers were seeking powers to inspect the bank accounts of state pensioners

The Work and Pensions Secretary was quizzed by Labour MP Sir Stephen Timms, the committee's chair, about why ministers were seeking powers to inspect the bank accounts of all those claiming the state pension.

Mr Stride stressed that - as the powers in the Bill would be subject to an 'affirmative statutory instrument' - it would 'ultimately for Parliament to decide what finally happens'.

He added there was 'no suggestion' that state pensioners would be having their bank accounts looked into 'at the moment' - although he acknowledged there could be an 'evolution' in where fraud was occurring.

'Its ultimate over-arching aim is to drive down fraud and error,' Mr Stride told MPs.

'There is error and there is some small amount of fraud... within the pensions space.

'These are arguments that are kind of premature in the sense that, we don't have an Act yet.

'But when we do, this is presupposing that a Secretary of State or whoever my successor might be at the appropriate time comes forward to Parliament to seek those powers in respect of pension payments.

'There's no suggestion at the moment that would happen, is my point.'

Mr Stride added that DWP expects to reduce welfare fraud and error by about 600million over the next five years in order to salvage taxpayers' cash.

'Fraud and error is running at over 8billion at the moment and we're very determined to get that down and we've had some success in doing that, but we want to go still further,' he said.

'We wouldn't be exercising these powers on any other grounds than there was a signal given, in terms of the data that we were seeking, that there could be or reasonable expectation there might be error or fraud involved.

'The evolution point is very important. Whilst at the moment there is a very low level, relatively, of fraud in the pension space, it's not inconceivable at some point in the future that might change.'

Katherine Green, a senior DWP official, also played down the prospect of pensioners' bank accounts being looked at immediately.

'It is a relatively broad power and that is partly to future proof because, of course, fraud is evolving all of the time,' she told the committee.

'What the power allows us to do is basically put controls in place so we can ask for relative data from third parties but only where there is an indication of fraud and error.

'So we will not be accessing individuals' bank accounts directly, the power is so that we can ask for bulk data from financial organisations such as banks where we have an indication where there is fraud and error.

'That is what the power is doing - so absolutely no direct access to bank accounts directly. The legislation does provide a number of safeguards.'

She added: 'It's simply that the power is constructed in a way that would allow that, should that be necessary - should there be future evidence.

'We would not expect that at all. As we know and as the published statistics and the annual report and accounts say, most of the fraud we're experiencing is within the UC system.

'So this is absolutely not a particular intention right now at all to access or to delve into the accounts of pensions specifically.

'We know where the fraud is, we know what we want to prioritise, and it's within UC and that's absolutely what we would intend to prioritise.'

Katie Farrington, a fellow DWP official, also emphasised there was not 'large evidence of fraud and error in relation to state pension'.

'Where we do see some fraud and error in relation to state pension is about people living abroad and where the state pension would be frozen and, if you were resident in this country, your state pension would be uprated,' she told MPs.

'So it's a very small number of cases at the moment. These powers principally we're targeting fraud and error where we know where it exists, which is in relation to UC.

'However, we're seeking to take these powers now to give the Government the freedom and the ability to tackle fraud where it does arise.

'And there is a very small amount of fraud and error now that arises in relation to state pension.'
Friends and family have paid tribute to a 'one of a kind' NHS worker after she died in a mystery nightclub tragedy, despite medics' attempts to save her.

Olivia Spencer, 21, collapsed during a techno club night event at Vaults in Cardiff this weekend and died at the scene.

Police say they are continuing to investigate the 'sudden and unexplained' death, which happened in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Olivia's friends and family members have since paid tribute to the healthcare support worker of Treorchy, Rhondda, and described her as 'a beautiful angel'.

A family source told Mailonline that her shock death was 'an absolute tragedy'.

They said: 'Olivia was a beautiful, caring young woman who gave her heart and soul to her job with the NHS and we are struggling with her loss.

'Olivia was loved so much by all of us. We are just so sorry she has gone.'

Olivia Spencer, 21, collapsed during a techno club night event at Vaults in Cardiff this weekend and died at the scene

Olivia's friends and family members have since paid tribute to the healthcare support worker of Treorchy, Rhondda, and described her as 'a beautiful angel'

Vaults in Cardiff where Olivia tragically collapsed and died

They added: 'She was still so young and had so much to look forward to in the years ahead. She loved her nursing job and she was incredibly popular.

The source added: 'We have no clue yet about how she died and people should not be speculating.'

The relative added: 'All I do know is that we are all utterly devastated.

In a statement issued by police, Olivia's family said: 'We as a family are absolutely devastated, Olivia was one of a kind with a heart of pure gold, she lit up every room she walked into with her funny, bubbly personality.

'She will be missed by all who knew her.'

South Wales Police said: 'There are no suspicious circumstances, and a file is being prepared on behalf of HM Coroner.'

Aunt Natalie Palmer said: 'Words fail me, there are so many wonderful memories that I will cherish forever. You will be forever missed, I am so lost for words.'

Good friend Mia Clayton wrote: 'Our beautiful Liv, I'm so grateful to have shared the best memories with you, you truly was one of a kind.

'Hope your partying hard up there like we all know you love to do crazy girl, nothing will ever be the same without you here. I'm absolutely heartbroken.

'To think we will never be able to see your crazy dance moves or hear your nuts stories again absolutely kills me, the world is so cruel.

'I'll always love and miss you, Olivia, forever 21 our beautiful angel.'

Cousin Nicole James, added: 'I still can't get my head around that you're gone, or that I'm even having to write this. My crazy little cousin.. you were taken from us too early.'

Sharing a picture of her and Olivia together, Nicole added: 'Every time I look at this photo and see the way you're looking up at me I cry.

'I will miss our crazy convo's and your wicked little laugh. You're going to be missed so much!!! Rest in peace beautiful girl xxx'

Police say they are continuing to investigate the 'sudden and unexplained' death, which happened in the early hours of Saturday morning

Vaults, a club run from a former bank vault in Butetown, Cardiff, said it was 'absolutely heartbroken' by Olivia's death

In a statement the club said: 'As a venue, we are absolutely heartbroken due to the events of Friday night'

Vaults, a club run from a former bank vault in Butetown, Cardiff, said it was 'absolutely heartbroken' by Olivia's death.

In a statement the club said: 'As a venue, we are absolutely heartbroken due to the events of Friday night.

'During the event, concerns were raised for an individual who was immediately taken to the onsite medic for medical assistance.

'South Wales Ambulance Service arrived within minutes to the aid of our medic, but tragically the individual passed away despite every effort from the medical staff.

'We would like to send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the individual and offer our continued support during this tragic time.

'Safety is our number one priority as a venue, and we will continue to implement our strict policies through our upcoming events.'

Many clubgoers have thanked Vaults staff for the care they showed during the tragic event by offering friends of Olivia's hot drinks and support.

South Wales Central Coroner's Office confirmed Olivia's death had been referred to a coroner's officer who would determine if an inquest was likely to open in the coming days.
A 'legendary' council worker has been lauded for taking the extra time to collect rubbish bins that locals had not put out for collection.

The garbo was photographed on a street in Moreton Bay, north of Brisbane, emptying the bin before returning it the property.

Residents were quick to notice the man's thoughtful act and took to Facebook to thank him.

'[He] saw the bins were behind a gate [and] not put out, [he] bought them out [and], emptied the yellow [bin] and put it back,' one resident wrote.

'He's awesome he's been down our street and I've witnessed him grabbing forgetful bins off someone's property,' another local said.

A 'legendary' council worker has been lauded for taking the extra time to collect rubbish bins that locals had not put out for collection

'Shoutout to this amazing bloke.'

Other said he even picks up the bins if they get knocked over after being collected.

Moreton Bay Council later confirmed the friendly council worker's good deeds are actually part of a service offered to some residents.

'Around 20 per cent of people in Moreton Bay live with some form of disability and many parts of our city have a significant proportion of elderly residents, so providing accessible infrastructure for everyone is something very close to my heart,' City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery told Yahoo.

'City of Moreton Bay continues to be a friendly place for people of all abilities to call home and feel welcome without discrimination.'

The bin collection service is provided to those who have a physical disability and don't live with another person who can put their bins out.

Around 270 residents are currently using the free service.
A senior prison officer sued for religious discrimination after she complained that a mural of Marcus Rashford being painted by inmates was offensive to Jews.

Lynda Hancock told bosses that the painting of the Manchester United and England star was discriminatory to people of her faith because he had once been photographed with rapper Wiley.

The grime star was suspended from Twitter - now known as X - in 2021 after posting a string of offensive tweets in which he likened the Jews to the Ku Klux Klan.

Rashford and fellow England player Jesse Lingard faced criticism after a photo later emerged of the two of them with Wiley, leading to both issuing statements declaring that they did not condone racism.

Ms Hancock said she was 'deeply offended' by the choice of Rashford for the mural - made by the prison's 'equalities' group - and asked for another 'inspirational' figure to be chosen.

However, there was delay in dealing with her complaint and by the time an investigation was completed, the painting had been finished.

Ms Hancock took Alex Chalk, the Secretary of State for Justice to the tribunal claiming religious discrimination.

Rashford and fellow England player Jesse Lingard faced criticism after a photo later emerged of the two of them with Wiley, leading to both issuing statements declaring that they did not condone racism

However, her case was dismissed after an employment judge ruled the way her complaint had been handled had been fair.

The hearing in Birmingham was told Ms Hancock was a senior prison officer of 35 years' experience, 18 of which had been at HMP Stafford, a Category C jail for male sex offenders.

The tribunal heard Ms Hancock said she had been subject to a number of 'very offensive' discriminatory comments during her career including jokes about gas chambers.

However, this was the first formal complaint she had made on the issue.

'It was therefore a very significant matter in her mind,' the tribunal said.

The hearing was told that within the prison grounds there is a single-storey standalone building, the end wall of which is used to display murals painted by the prisoners.

'Those murals are changed every few or perhaps every six months,' the tribunal heard. 'The subject matter for this mural was determined by the equalities group within the prison. That group is a mixture of prisoners and staff..'

Ms Hancock was a senior prison officer of 35 years' experience, 18 of which had been at HMP Stafford, a Category C jail for male sex offenders

In February 2022, Ms Hancock was told that the latest mural would be of Rashford.

'[She] understood Mr Rashford was considered inspirational because of his campaign to support vulnerable children, during the Covid pandemic, in particular, and for which he had been awarded an MBE,' the tribunal heard.

'She, however, had a different perspective on Mr Rashford.

'In the previous week or two, he had been pictured with a rapper who was known for his antisemitic comments on Twitter (as it then was).

'[Ms Hancock] took the view that this indicated Mr Rashford was friendly with or supported that rapper and, by inference, the rapper's antisemitic views.'

Ms Hancock immediately made a formal complaint.

'In it she stated she was Jewish and was very deeply offended that Mr Rashford was to be feted in this way,' the tribunal heard. 'She said that she had been told 'the photo-op was an accident so it's ok. It is not.'

'Her complaint was that the mural was offensive to her and Jewish people in general in the circumstances that had prevailed in the previous weeks.'

Asked on the complaints form what should happen next, Ms Hancock stated 'another inspirational figure should be chosen'.

The tribunal heard, however, that five weeks elapsed until a meeting to discuss her complaint with bosses could be fixed.

By that time, Ms Hancock was off sick from work and the meeting never took place.

The tribunal heard that an investigation by the prison chaplain found the mural not to be discriminatory.

'He noted Mr Rashford had promptly condemned the rapper's antisemitic comments and reaffirmed his opposition to antisemitism.

'[He noted] Mr Rashford had stated that he was not aware of the rapper's comments when he got pulled into the photo opportunity.

'In all the circumstances, [he] concluded that Mr Rashford himself was not antisemitic or could not be said to be antisemitic, nor could he be said to support antisemitism because a photo had been taken with this particular rapper.

'[He] therefore found that Mr Rashford was an appropriate subject for the mural because of his work on child hunger. He did not uphold [Ms Hancock's] complaint that the mural was discriminatory because it was offensive to those of the Jewish faith.'

Ms Hancock told the tribunal said she had suffered a mental breakdown and never returned to work. Her employment was terminated a year later in April 2023.

At the tribunal she claimed that her complaint had not been 'progressed satisfactorily' because she was Jewish and that prison bosses took discrimination claims against Jews less seriously than those against other faiths.

However, the panel - chaired by Employment Judge Joanne Connolly - found that she had not been discriminated against.

'[Ms Hancock] has a deep-seated and entirely genuine belief that those of the Jewish faith are something of an unseen minority and that the concerns of that community are not taken as seriously as the concerns of other minoritised groups,' the tribunal said.

'This belief seems to be, at least in part, based on what she says is her lived experience of offensive behaviour going unaddressed when drawn informally to the attention of others.

'We understand that this was the first time she had chosen to make a formal complaint about such perceived behaviour. As a result, the response she got from her employer was imbued with a particular significance for her.

'She measured that response against their policies and against what she would have done were she dealing with the complaint and she found [the prison management] to have fallen short.

'She inferred that this must speak to the attitude of [managers] to complaints by someone of her particular faith. That is her genuine belief and is genuinely the inference she has drawn.

'It is not, however, in our view, supported by the evidence in this case. It is not an inference we find it appropriate to draw after having conducted a forensic and detailed examination of the events.'
Migrants sent from Britain to Rwanda could be returned here if they commit a serious crime, it has emerged.

A Downing Street spokesman said that in hypothetical, exceptional circumstances, a deported migrant who is later jailed for at least five years in Rwanda could end up coming back to the UK.

Any convicted of a crime would first have to serve their sentence in Rwanda.

At that stage, Rwandan authorities may decide to revoke their permission to remain in their country - leading them to be returned here.

Home Office sources said migrants may also be able to return here if they win an appeal - previously lodged in the British courts - against the original decision to remove them to Rwanda.

Home Secretary James Cleverly was in Rwanda yesterday to seal a new treaty with his counterpart Vincent Biruta

A plane that the British government previously used to try and fly migrants to Rwanda in 2022

Channel migrants are brought ashore in Kent over the weekend

Anyone who commits a crime in Rwanda having been relocated, they will be expected to serve their sentence in Rwanda, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said.

There are hypothetical circumstances, exceptional circumstances in which individuals could be returned to the UK.

As a first position, if you commit a crime in Rwanda, youre serving your sentence in Rwanda.

READ MORE - Rishi Sunak faces Tory meltdown on Rwanda plan: Ministers vow emergency legislation due tomorrow will be 'watertight' as centrist MPs threaten revolt Advertisement

There would be a high bar for sending someone back to the UK, the spokesman said.

But the official declined to give examples of circumstances in which someone could return to the UK because that would perhaps only benefit those who would seek to subvert the system.

The likelihood of a migrant being returned to the UK after committing a crime in Rwanda was described as miniscule by one source last night.

Rishi Sunak was today accused by Sir Keir Starmer of giving Rwanda "hundreds of millions of pounds for nothing in return".

The Labour leader told Rishi Sunak in the Commons: "He clearly hasn't read it. Annexe A says on top of the 140 million he has already showered on Rwanda, when we send people there under this treaty we have to pay for their accommodation and their upkeep for five years.

'That is not all, this morning a Government minister admitted that anyone we send to Rwanda who commits a crime can be returned to us."

Referring to claims that James Cleverly called the plan 'bats**t', Sir Keir added: "I am beginning to see why the Home Secretary said the Rwanda scheme was something to do with 'bat', I think, was it?

"What does he first think attracted Mr Kagame to hundreds of millions of pounds for nothing in return?"

Rishi Sunak replied: "The simple point is there is a simple question here. If you believe in stopping the boats, as we on this side of the House do, you need to have an effective deterrent and returns agreement. It is as simple as that."

Referring to Labour MPs' lobbying to prevent deportation flights of foreign criminals, the Prime Minister added: "He is not interested in stopping the boats, which is why he is not interested in the Rwanda plan."

Rishi Sunak (pictured taking Cabinet yesterday) is facing a Tory pincer movement as he prepares to unveil emergency legislation on the Rwanda plan

Mr Sunak is walking a tightrope between warring wings of his party over whether to waive human rights rules to get deportation flights running.

He is expected to try to fudge the issue with what is being described as a 'semi-skimmed' option - stopping short of exempting the policy from the jurisdiction of European courts.

But centrist MPs are threatening to revolt against the law - due to be published tomorrow - if it goes too far in watering down international commitments.

And right-wingers will be furious if he does not take tough action, warning that failure to get the Channel boats crisis under control will cost the Conservatives the election.

Touring broadcast studios this morning, policing minister Chris Philp said the legislation would appear within 'days' and will do 'whatever it takes to make sure that the Rwanda scheme is legally watertight and doesn't get unpicked by the courts'.

READ MORE - 29,000 migrants have reached the UK via the Channel this year as figures show proportion of Albanians crossing in small boats has fallen while one in nine arriving are Turkish Advertisement

Tory moderates said last night that they have received 'assurances' the PM will not proceed with the most radical option for resolving the stand-off with the Supreme Court over the flagship Rwanda scheme.

Mr Sunak has been examining the so-called 'full-fat' plan that would carve out the Rwanda scheme from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), as advocated by many on the Tory Right.

Instead Mr Sunak is thought to be leaning towards a 'semi-skimmed' version of the legislation which could override the UK's Human Rights Act but not the ECHR. This could limit legal challenges but leave open a right of appeal to Strasbourg.

A 'skimmed' version of the deal would simply see Parliament declare that, in the light of the new treaty signed with Rwanda yesterday, the African nation is a safe country to send migrants.

Downing Street insisted 'no final decisions' had been made on the legislation, which could be published as soon as tomorrow.

A source insisted the final legislative package would be 'tough'. But a leading Tory moderate told the Mail No 10 had yesterday given private assurances that plans for setting aside the ECHR had been 'dropped'.

The former Cabinet minister said: 'There are people on the Right of the party shouting that we have to do this and the PM has flirted with it, but it is not necessary.

'It would not work and it now looks like it is not going to happen, which is a great relief and which makes it more likely we will actually get these flights going.'

Mr Sunak is understood to have been influenced by Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron, who ignored ECHR rulings on prisoner voting for years without leaving it.

The former prime minister told peers yesterday: 'There are occasions when the ECHR makes judgments as they did on the issue of prisoner votes when they said that it was absolutely essential that we legislated to give prisons the vote.

Touring broadcast studios this morning, policing minister Chris Philp said the legislation would appear within 'days' and will do 'whatever it takes to make sure that the Rwanda scheme is legally watertight and doesn't get unpicked by the courts'

The Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) drastically revised its figure for the year to December up from 606,000 to 745,000, an increase of 139,000, almost the same as the population of Cambridge .

'And I said I didn't think that was the case, I think that should be settled by Houses of Parliament, and the ECHR backed down. So that sort of flexibility may well be necessary in the future.'

A Whitehall source said Mr Sunak was focused on what will work rather than 'crowd pleasing'.

Supporters of the 'full-fat' plan, who include former Home Secretary Suella Braverman, argue it is the only way to guarantee the scheme is not subject to further debilitating legal challenges and ensure the first deportation flights take off before the next election.

But opponents, said to include senior Cabinet ministers, have warned the plan would damage the country's international standing and put the Government on a collision course with judges who could block a new law, killing off hope of Rwanda flights next year.

Damian Green, who served as Theresa May's deputy, said overriding the ECHR would be 'the wrong thing to do' and make it 'pretty much impossible' to get the legislation through the House of Lords.

Mr Green said the Government should 'think twice' before trying to limit the application of the ECHR or the Human Rights Act.

Tory whips have warned as many as ten ministers could resign if the Government tries to override the ECHR, including Attorney General Victoria Prentis and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk.

But MPs on the Tory Right signalled they would continue to press for a 'full fat' option.

Dozens are said to be ready to back an amendment to the legislation on the ECHR if Mr Sunak drops the plan.

Mark Francois, of the European Research Group of Tory MPs, last night said the group's lawyers would look for 'unambiguous wording' in the new plan that will ensure deportation flights can take place next year before backing it.
Israel has revealed that five Hamas commanders who took a chummy picture together have all died in airstrikes, following Israel's blitzing retaliation against the terror group.

The IDF released a photo of 11 top-level Hamas commanders sitting and smiling in a long and narrow room, with plates of fruit and drink on the tables in front of them.

An IDF spokesperson revealed that of the 11 men, five are confirmed to have died in airstrikes launched as part of its ground offensive into Gaza, which has seen massive artillery and aerial bombardment in the enclave in revenge for Hamas' October 7 incursion.

The IDF did not say when or where the picture was taken but said those in it were from the Northern Gaza Brigade, which is the second largest brigade in Hamas.

In a statement, the IDF said: 'IDF forces under the intelligence guidance of the Shin Bet killed the brigade commander Ahmed Jandor and Wael Rajab, as well as other senior officials.

The IDF did not say when or where the picture was taken but said those in it were from the Northern Gaza Brigade, which is the second largest brigade in Hamas

Ibrahim Biari (pictured) was the Hamas commander of Central Jabaliya Battalion, stationed in Jabaliya refugee camp in the Gaza Strip

'These included other senior figures as well as the head of military formation and the person responsible for observation in the north Gaza Strip.'

The IDF said that Jandor and Rajab were responsible for terrorist activities in the northern Gaza strip, adding that significant members of the Gaza City branch of Hamas were also eliminated in the strike.

Jandor was a member of Hamas' military council, and was said to have had a large role in directing the terror group's activity in the north of the Gaza Strip.

Rajab, meanwhile, was an operations officer in Hamass northern Gaza brigade. He once served as head of police in northern Gaza, and the commander of Hamass Beit Lahiya battalion.

Rajab recorded himself walking through the tunnels beneath Gaza with a stark look on his face, footage of which was released by the IDF.

Along with Jandor and Rajab, the airstrike killed the leader of the brigades aid battalion, the head of military formation and the officer responsible for observations in the north.

Rajab recorded himself walking through the tunnels beneath Gaza with a stark look on his face

The footage from the tunnel was released today by the IDF

Other Hamas commanders in the photo were also identified.

Ibrahim Biari was the Hamas commander of Central Jabaliya Battalion, stationed in Jabaliya refugee camp in the Gaza Strip, and was killed on November 1 after Israeli fighter jets struck the region.

Biari oversaw all the Hamas operations in northern Gaza Strip since the militant group started its ground offensive.

He was also believed to be involved in multiple attacks on Israel in the past decades.

Also in the photo was the head of Hamas' air operations, Murad Abu Murad.

Israeli troops fought fierce battles with Hamas in southern Gaza on Wednesday after reaching the heart of the city of Khan Younis

Residents said Israeli bombing intensified overnight, killing and wounding an unspecified number of people

Gaza has has seen massive artillery and aerial bombardment in revenge for Hamas' October 7 incursion

Hamas' armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, said combat was fierce

READ MORE: At least TEN male and female hostages held by Hamas were sexually abused before being freed Advertisement

Murad was killed less than a week after Hamas' incursion into Israel. Overnight airstrikes killed him on October 13.

He is said to have played a large role in the incursion, which saw terrorists swoop into Israel on hang gliders before killing 1,200 people.

The bloody conflict between Hamas and Israel continues to rage on.

Israeli troops fought fierce battles with Hamas in southern Gaza on Wednesday after reaching the heart of the city of Khan Younis, forcing Palestinian civilians to seek refuge elsewhere as the number of safe areas decreases.

Israeli warplanes also bombarded targets across the densely populated coastal territory in one of the heaviest phases of fighting in the two months since Israel began its military campaign to eliminate the Palestinian militant group.

Many of those killed in Gaza have been women and children

Israel said its forces had struck hundreds of targets, including a militant cell near a school in the north

Palestinian civilians have been forced seek refuge elsewhere as the number of safe areas in the Gaza Strip decreases

Palestinian medics said hospitals were overflowing with dead and wounded

Palestinian medics said hospitals were overflowing with dead and wounded, many of them women and children, and supplies were running out.

Hundreds of thousands of displaced people driven out of the north were seeking shelter in the dwindling number of places designated as safe areas by Israel.

After largely gaining control of northern Gaza, Israeli troops and tanks pushed further south and encircled Khan Younis in the south after a week-long truce collapsed last week.

Israel said its forces had struck hundreds of targets, including a militant cell near a school in the north. Hamas' armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, said combat was fierce.

Residents said Israeli bombing intensified overnight, killing and wounding an unspecified number of people, and that tanks were battling Palestinian militants north and east of Khan Younis.

Tanks were stationed on the edge of the Khan Younis refugee camp, not far from the house of Hamas' leader in Gaza, Yehya Al-Sinwar, they said. It was unclear whether anyone was there.
A primary school teacher has been suspended as police continue to investigate claims a pupil was punched 'multiple times' in the playground by a member of staff.

A woman purporting to be the aunt of a pupil at Christ The King School in Islington claimed in a post on X the boy had been attacked by a staff member and had to go to A&E with chest and back pains.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman told MailOnline today it was treating the allegations, which were reported last month, 'very seriously'.

Its statement added that there were 'no reports of any serious injuries'.

The school told MailOnline today the allegation of the incident was made to the school in November and it 'took the matter extremely seriously and took all appropriate actions'.

The chair of governors for the school, James Potts, confirmed a member of staff had been suspended from work since the time of the allegations, pending a full investigation. He also confirmed the school was 'working closely with the Metropolitan Police, Islington Council and the Diocese of Westminster' on the matter.

Islington Council also said it was aware of the reports and was taking them seriously, and was working with the school to investigate.

A pupil was allegedly punched by a teacher at Christ The King School in Islington, north London

The woman's post included a video showing a man remonstrating with a member of staff, believed to be deputy head teacher, Tracey Lane, and asking why the teacher who supposedly committed the act was still working there

The video, in which the staff member appears to say it is being dealt with by the police and says 'it is not appropriate to discuss' the alleged attack further, has been widely shared on social media

The school told MailOnline today the allegation of the incident was made to the school in November and it 'took the matter extremely seriously and took all appropriate actions'

James Potts, Chair of Governors at Christ the King RC Primary School, said: 'An allegation was made about an incident at the school in November.

'As soon as the allegation was made, we took the matter extremely seriously and took all appropriate actions.

'A member of staff was suspended at the time, pending a full investigation.

'We are working closely with the Metropolitan Police, Islington Council and the Diocese of Westminster.

'As part of our continued partnership with parents, carers and the wider community, we take the safety and well-being of our pupils extremely seriously, and are committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all.

'It would be inappropriate to comment further whilst an investigation is ongoing.'

The woman's post included a video showing a man remonstrating with a member of staff, believed to be deputy head teacher, Tracey Lane, and asking why the teacher who supposedly committed the act was still working there.

The video, in which the staff member appears to say it is being dealt with by the police and says 'it is not appropriate to discuss' the alleged attack further, has been widely shared on social media.

The account that posted the video, wrote that the alleged 10-year-old pupil was her nephew, saying: 'I can't believe I'm even writing these words, my 10 year old nephew was punched multiple times...at Christ The King School in Islington. The 10 year old had to go to A&E immediately after reporting severe pains across his chest and back areas.'

A spokesman for the Met Police said: 'Police were contacted on Friday, 10 November following a report that a ten-year-old pupil had been assaulted by a member of staff at a school in Tollington Park, N4.

'There were no reports of any serious injuries.

'Safeguarding children remains our priority and we treat such allegations very seriously.

'Those involved in this incident, along with several witnesses, are being spoken with and the investigation is ongoing.

'We are working with partners, including the local authority and the school, to progress this matter as swiftly as possible.'

A spokesperson for Islington council said: 'We are aware of these reports and are taking them seriously. We're working with the school to investigate.'
Recently freed immigration detainees will soon be subject to similar measures as high-risk terrorists after preventative detention laws passed parliament.

The House of Representatives on Wednesday night voted 68 to 59 in favour of the laws, which will deal with freed detainees who pose an unacceptable risk of committing a serious violent or sexual offence.

The laws were put in place after the High Court ruled that indefinite immigration detention was invalid, resulting in almost 150 detainees being released.

Under the laws, released detainees assessed by a court to pose an unacceptable risk would be put back behind bars.

The maximum length of the detention order is three years but would be reviewed annually.

Australian Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, Australian Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil and Australian Immigration Minister Andrew Giles speak during a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra, Wednesday, December 6, 2023

A fourth asylum seeker has been arrested following a controversial High Court ruling, as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (pictured) faces a full-blown crisis over his handling of the issue

Immigration Minister Andrew Giles said the detention measures were necessary.

'This is the reality of the High Court's decision,' he told parliament.

'The government did not choose to be in this position.

'The situation was imposed on this parliament by the High Court.

'The preventative detention regime would allow for the court to detain the worst of the worst offenders.

'To be clear, it would not count all of the detainees released since the High Court decision.'

A fourth man recently freed from detention was arrested on Wednesday after a 45-year-old allegedly broke the curfew of his visa conditions and stole luggage from Melbourne airport.

Of the almost 150 detainees, four have allegedly reoffended.

Two of these are registered sex offenders.

Emran Dad, 33, faced court on Tuesday charged with breaching his reporting obligations to police after he allegedly contacted a child and did not disclose social media accounts.

Afghan asylum seeker Emran Dad, 33, is one of four detainees who have been arrested since being freed by the High Court ruling

The heads of the Australian Border Force and the Australian Federal Police on Wednesday briefed the prime minister and premiers on Operation Aegis, the joint operation to ensure community safety in the wake of the High Court decision.

Mr Giles has also been in contact with state and territory ministers to ensure necessary preparations to keep the community safe were under way.

Court applications had been drafted in anticipation of the laws passing.

Layers of protection were being put in place to ensure Australians' safety, Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil said.

The new laws would be able to withstand a High Court challenge after previous ones were struck out, she said.

'The safety of the Australian community is paramount to us,' she said.

Neither minister confirmed how many people would be covered by the new laws nor how many applications were in the works.

The reason the timing and number of detention orders were not being released was due to the risk cases could be prejudiced, Foreign Minister Penny Wong told parliament.

The detainees' offences were also kept secret despite Mr Giles previously telling parliament there were three murderers and several sex offenders among the cohort.

The opposition has chastised the government for not having legislation ready to implement as soon as the court's decision was handed down so offenders weren't released.

Aliyawar Yawari, 65, is a convicted sex offender who was branded a 'danger to the Australian community' by a judge after he attacked three women and kicked in the door of one mother

The High Court's ruling on November 8 found that indefinite detention was unlawful allowed 148 dangerous non-citizens to be released from detention (pictured: a released detainee last week)

'They said we didn't need a preventative detention regime or that we couldn't have a preventative detention regime,' Deputy Liberal leader Sussan Ley said.

'The next thing the home affairs minister said was parliament won't leave until we have such a regime.

'How could that possibly inspire confidence in people about community safety?'

But Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus slammed the coalition for not understanding how High Court judgements work.

The government cannot out-legislate the constitution, Mr Dreyfus said.

Any delay could expose the Commonwealth and individual public servants to legal action and damages, he said.

'The decision of the High Court sets a new limit on the power to detain anyone in the same position as the plaintiff in that case and it had to be implemented immediately,' he said.

Greens leader Adam Bandt said the debate on the laws was a race to the bottom as while 'some of them have committed heinous crimes, many of them haven't'.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028

Lifeline 13 11 14

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 (for people aged 5 to 25)
An American tourist who smashed two antique statues worth over $1.2 million at an Israeli museum has been acquitted but sent to hospital for medical treatment.

Steven Porth, 40, hurled the pair of 2,000 year old Roman sculptures to the floor shattering them into several pieces while visiting the museum in October.

Following the incident questions were raised about the security of museums in Israel and it came just two days before Hamas' barbaric assault on the Jewish state on October 7.

Police originally said it was a 'religious attack' and claimed that Porth vandalized the statues because they were against the Torah, Judaism's most important text.

But at the time his British lawyer Nick Kaufman told MailOnline the attack at the Israel Museum was not 'religiously motivated' because Porth was suffering from 'Jerusalem syndrome.'

Images released by authorities showed the sculptures that had been removed from their pedestals and lying on the floor, one with a severed head

One of the statues broken into several pieces at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem

Mr Kaufmann used this defense at his client's trial in the Israeli capital earlier this week. The judge agreed with him and acquitting Porth on criminal charges but sentencing him to a medical facility.

The damaged statues were a head of Athena, the daughter of the Greek god Zeus, and a statue of a griffin grasping the wheel of fate of the Roman god Nemesis were the ones damaged.

Both have since been removed and are undergoing repair and experts are hopeful of putting them back on display in the near future.

According to a court document seen by MailOnline Judge Shmuel Herbst acquitted him of vandalism but ordered him to attend a hospital for four years - the maximum sentence he would have received if found guilty.

Mr Kaufman said:' My client was suffering from a condition known as Jerusalem syndrome, he meant no ill will and it was not religiously motivated.'

The attorney explained his client was overcome with the emotion of seeing the art and as such had reacted violently.

A medical report deemed him fit to stand trial but also said that at the time of the incident he was not responsible for his actions.

Security cameras recorded Forth's exploits and the police claimed that he had stayed behind in the museum until closing time to carry out the attack.

The museum said only that the two artifacts destroyed were 'ancient Roman statues dating to the 2nd century CE' housed in the archaeology wing (Stock Image)

According to the investigators, Porth intended to break more art sculptures, but his actions created such a noise that staff rushed in and managed to stop him.

Following his arrest he said he didn't regret what he'd done and that he wanted to attack statues on a previous visit to the Jewish state.

During initial questioning, he told police that the statues were 'against his faith and religion' insisting they were 'works of idolatry.'Porth is expected to remain in Israel for medical treatment.

Eli Escozido, (CORR) director of Israel's Antiquities Authority, said: 'We see with concern the fact that cultural values are being destroyed by religiously motivated extremists.

'We will speak with the management of the Israel Museum to ensure that such incidents do not reoccur.'
A teenager has been charged as an adult over the alleged armed carjacking of an FBI agent in Washington DC.

Devonta Lynch, 17, was arrested and charged over the incident that took place last Wednesday.

Lynch and another suspect allegedly carjacked the FBI agent at gunpoint in the 100 block of 12th Street in the Capitol Hill area of the city.

The vehicle was found around 30 minutes later and returned to the agent, who reported ammunition missing from the car.

The agent told investigators that she had been inside the door-jam of the driver's door of her vehicle when she was approached from behind.

Investigators managed to obtain video footage from 15th Street of the two suspects leaving the vehicle and running away

According to DC News Now, the agent said she was 'knocked down to the ground in an unknown manner and became disoriented'.

Court documents indicate that it was the person holding the gun that demanded the keys to her vehicle.

The agent said she believed she was wrestling with the gunman over the keys when she sustained cuts to her lips, before she handed the keys over.

Investigators managed to obtain video footage from 15th Street of the two suspects leaving the vehicle and running away.

NBC reported that an FBI SWAT team arrested Lynch at his home, with FBI-issued ammunition being found by detectives inside a closet at the property.

Lynch had been suspended from high school on the Wednesday of the incident, and the day before.

The teenager is being held without bond and is set to make an appearance in court on Monday.

Carjackings in the nation's capital have more than doubled this year, up 104%, with victims including a diplomat from the United Arab Emirates and U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar of Texas.

Lynch and another suspect allegedly carjacked the FBI agent at gunpoint in the 100 block of 12th Street in the Capitol Hill area of the city

Cuellar was carjacked near the Capitol in October by three armed assailants, who stole his car but didnt physically harm him.

Last month, Secret Service agents protecting President Biden's granddaughter opened fire after three people tried to break into an unmarked Secret Service vehicle. No one was struck.

Violent crime in Washington has also been on the rise this year, up more than 40% compared with last year.

Last month, a DC mom turned her 12-year-old son into police after suspecting him of a carjacking.

The boy, who has not yet been identified, was handed over after his mother recognized her son in a picture of the suspect shared by authorities.

His alleged accomplice who was shot and killed by cops is 13-year-old Vernard Toney Jr. Toney was described by his school principal as 'a smart and talented student.'

The two boys attempted to carjack an off-duty police officer on Saturday night, leading to the fatal shooting of one of them

A DC police detective and carjacking task force member testified in court last month that surveillance video captured the two boys approaching the car from behind.

The car belonged to an off-duty federal security officer who was seated inside the vehicle and checking his phone before starting work.

A detective said the video showed the two boys seeming to have a conversation before placing their right hands on their waistbands and continuing to move toward the cop's car.

The detective said the 13-year-old was walking close to the sidewalk and opened the passenger-side door and entered the vehicle.

The 12-year-old was identified as the suspect who walked around the front of the car, opened the driver-side door and said 'Get the [expletive] out. You know what this is,' according to the off-duty officer.

The officer said the juvenile held his hand in his pocket as if he had a gun, which is when the officer opened fire. Toney was shot and the other accomplice ran.

A blurry picture of the 12-year-old suspect that his mother used to identify him as an alleged carjacker

The 12-year-old's accomplice, Vernard Toney Jr., 13, was shot and killed during the carjacking

Toney, a seventh grader, had been a suspect in a number of previous carjackings. He was arrested in May in connection with several such crimes that occurred in Southeast DC.

It isn't clear what happened with those cases, although crime-ridden DC is notorious for recent efforts to lighten penalties for criminals in a bid to boost racial 'equity.'

Carjacking rates are so high in the nation's capital that Mayor Muriel Bowser recently announced that residents living in certain parts of the city will be given Free AirTags at events held from November 7-9.

Bowser said at the press conference: 'These tags and tiles will help MPD recover stolen vehicles and hold people accountable.

'The word will also get out this is not a community to come in and steal cars.'

At the distribution event, police officers will help install the tags into cars. The tag can be installed anywhere in the car and its location will not be accessible to police.

The free AirTags will work the same as Apple designed them. If a car is stolen, the owner will be able to look up its location on the 'Find My' app on their Apple iPhone.
Police have launched an urgent manhunt for a man after a pensioner was killed by a car thief outside his London home.

Evaldas Simanaitis, 68, suffered a head injury after being punched near his residence in Waltham Forest in mid-October. He died in hospital 10 days later.

A 25-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection to the incident, but the Met Police today has issued an appeal to find Tomas Asmenkas, who is thought to have been in the area at the time of the incident.

Officers say they 'urgently' need to speak with Asmenkas, 24, and have warned that he 'should not be approached by the public'. Anyone who sees him should call 999.

The force is also keen to speak with anyone who has seen the suspect and have appealed for Asmenkas to contact police directly.

The Met Police today has issued an appeal to find Tomas Asmenkas, 24, (pictured) who is thought to have been in the area at the time that pensioner Evaldas Simanaitis was injured near his residence in Waltham Forest

Evaldas Simanaitis, 68, (pictured) suffered a head injury after being punched near his residence in Waltham Forest in mid-October. He died in hospital 10 days later.

Police responded to reports of two men breaking into cars on Boundary Lane, Newham around 4.45am on October 16.

They arrested a 25-year-old man who was found to be in possession of a car key registered to an address less than four miles away on Matcham Road.

Officers went to the Matcham Road property and found Simanaitis seriously injured.

Review of CCTV footage established that he had been injured outside his home at approximately 4am. Simanaitis was taken by the London Ambulance Service to hospital in a critical condition.

Despite the efforts of medical staff, he died in the early hours of October 26. A post-mortem examination found cause of death to be a head injury.

Investigators have now released a photo of Asmetkas and are trying to locate him.

Detective Inspector Aytac Necati, from the Met's Specialist Crime Command, said: 'I would urge you to look closely at the image we have released today. We need to speak with this man as a matter of urgency about the events that night.

'Mr Simanaitis's family are facing Christmas without him. Please put yourselves in their place. Someone knows where this man is; please do the right thing and contact us.

'If anyone saw or heard anything on Boundary Lane or Matcham Road in the early hours of 16 October, but has not yet spoken with police, I ask them to please come forward.'

Anyone with information relating to Asmetkas's whereabouts should call 101 quoting reference 847/16Oct. Tips can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
A banned underage drinker, who is accused of paying demonstrators to picket at The Mark Hotel, has claimed the hotspot preyed on teenagers with fake IDs during the pandemic to stem off foreclosure.

Theo Weintraub, 19, is at the center of a lawsuit lodged by The Mark - one of New York City's finest five-star hotels - after he was barred from entry and allegedly started causing a ruckus outside to deter their business.

Weintraub, who claims to be sober since January 7, 2023, said in a counterclaim lodged in New York Supreme Court, the hotel started serving underage drinkers because of the financial burdens they faced during the pandemic.

The hotel, in Manhattan's Upper East Side, knew they were giving minors alcohol but took a blind eye, Weintraub's attorney claimed.

The Mark Hotel, located in Manhattan's Upper East Side, banned Theodore Weintraub two years ago - and now in a twisted revenge plot, he has allegedly been standing outside shouting that the hotel 'helps Epstein,' 'gropes people,' and 'denies the Holocaust'

The document reads: 'In May 2020, news reports surfaced regarding The Mark facing the threat of foreclosure.

'Around the fall of 2020, it was reported in the news that The Mark experienced substantial financial difficulties, which were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

'Faced with financial challenges, and upon information and belief, The Mark sought unconventional methods to increase revenue.'

These 'unconventional methods,' included serving alcohol to underage teenagers like Weintraub, the document claimed.

It stated: 'Upon information and belief, The Mark engaged in a scheme to prioritize revenue collection by serving alcohol to underage teenagers, thus disregarding the State of New York liquor laws.

'The Mark has been known among some underage teenagers living and frequenting the Upper East Side as a place to obtain alcoholic beverages.

'The Mark either failed to verify the legal drinking age or overlooked the use of fake identification by underage teenagers.

'The Mark is fully aware that any complaint about its service of alcohol to underage teenagers could lead to a loss of reputation, significant monetary and criminal penalties, and even bankruptcy.'

Art-collecting doctor Dr. Philip Weintraub, Theo's father, told The NY Post: 'It was a well-known fact to Theo and his circle of friends that the Mark Restaurant was a go-to spot to get served alcohol as long as one had a 'fake' ID.'

Art-collecting doctor Dr. Philip Weintraub, Theo's father, works as a cardiologist on Park Avenue. He claims that the hotel had been letting minors drink alcohol

According to the newspaper, the father showed them a nine-second video of his son Theo, who was then 16, being 'visibly, grossly, intoxicated' at The Mark's restaurant.

The clip allegedly showed the young boy playing with his food, sitting near a Champagne cocktail.

Dr. Weintraub said: 'Judging by this video, it should have been an obvious indicator to any and all the servers and managers at the restaurant that he was behaving inappropriately: a baby-faced drunk.'

Theo has been receiving hate mail since the lawsuit was made public, including one note that read: 'I hope The Mark sues your fat a** and you go to jail, you arrogant f**k!

'Make sure you bring lube + condoms for when you become Bubba's b***h + he f**ks you up the a**!'

The legal battle started in August, when The Mark Hotel sued the teen for paying others to verbally abuse staff and guests in a two-year smear campaign.

The hotel barred Theodore Weintraub from entering - and he allegedly stood outside shouting that the hotel 'helps Epstein,' 'gropes people,' and 'denies the Holocaust.'

Weintraub's bizarre tirades allegedly occurred when celebrities, including rapper Drake, were entering and leaving the swanky hotel.

In 2021 when Weintraub was underaged, he frequently tried to use a fake ID to gain access to the bar - where cocktails are $25 each - and buy drinks, the initial lawsuit claimed.

'With every passing failed attempt, Weintraub became increasingly aggressive with those refusing to serve him. Ultimately the hotel deemed him someone not to be welcomed into the hotel,' the suit read.

He was eventually thrown out and barred from entering the hotel - where one night in the penthouse costs $75,000. When he tried to dine there with his family on September 16, 2021, he was stopped again.

For two years everything was quiet, the suit states, but then in the summer of 2023 Weintraub started a campaign of abuse outside The Mark Hotel

His father - a successful NYC cardiologist - tried to calm the situation and handed the worker his business card. But his son continued to protest his ban, and accused the hotel of being antisemitic.

But his father Phillip has now claimed that the state of events differed from how The Mark first described.

He told the Post: 'Theo was not banned from the Mark because he was angry that they wouldn't serve him alcohol, he was banned on a night of heavy drinking at the Mark which led to an altercation with their security guard.'

For two years everything was quiet, the lawsuit states, but then, in the summer of 2023, Weintraub started a campaign of abuse outside The Mark Hotel.

Weintraub would sit in a parked Cadillac and 'smirked' while he watched the protesters he paid harass hotel workers and residents, it's alleged.

In August, the hotel on 77th Street filed a lawsuit in the Manhattan Supreme Court against Theodore Weintraub and John Doe, his alleged co-conspirator.

Theodore allegedly paid protesters $25 an hour to 'systematically' stand outside the hotel for hours and hurled abuse and defamatory words at workers - even when celebrity guests were present.

According to hotel staff who spoke to Patch, 'it was like non-stop, going up to every single table back and forth for hours.' The hotel was forced to shorten outdoor dining hours because of the racket.

The picketers also hurled abuse at individual employees, calling them 'pedophiles,' and making fun of one doorman's bald head.

Some told staff if they allowed Weintraub to drink in the bar, they would stop protesting. The NYPD was called regarding the protests at least three times - but said they couldn't do anything because the group is small, a worker alleged.

An unnamed staff member told Patch: 'It's really a disaster. That month was the worst month I've ever had here. It was like something out of a movie.'

The lawsuit claimed the man created 'chaotic and anxiety-ridden experiences for guests' and that he 'intentionally targeted or disrupted for the sole purpose of exacting revenge against the Mark Hotel.'

Meghan Markle, The Duchess Of Sussex, photographed leaving The Mark hotel in New York City after a five day Baby Shower in 2019

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, leaves The Mark Hotel in New York City after her baby shower on February 19, 2019

Kim Kardashian exiting The Mark Hotel before the Met Gala

One of the instances where the hecklers shouted at a VIP guest was on July 17 and 18 - who was just described as a celebrity of 'Jewish heritage' who arrived in the early hours of the morning. Footage of Drake leaving the hotel lobby on July 17 showed one of the protesters in the mix with his fans who were waiting on the sidewalk for him

One of the instances where the hecklers shouted at a VIP guest was on July 17 and 18 - who was just described as a celebrity of 'Jewish heritage' who arrived in the early hours of the morning.

Canadian rapper Drake was staying at The Mark on the same dates, while performing in Brooklyn and Manhattan for his tour.

Footage of Drake leaving the hotel lobby on July 17 showed one of the protesters in the mix with his fans who were waiting on the sidewalk for him.

The protester shouts at the rapper: 'The Mark helped Epstein,' referencing disgraced financier and pedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

In another instance on July 17, one of the protesters wouldn't move from the entrance of the hotel, so the defendants 'flopped to the ground and pretended to be injured.'

When the VIP guest then arrived at 5am, they shouted, 'the Mark denies the Holocaust.'

The lawsuit claims: 'VIP Guest #2's representatives have informed the Mark Hotel that VIP Guest #2 had been disturbed by the July 17 Incident, and on information and belief the Mark Hotel's relationship with VIP Guest #2 was prejudiced.'

Only July 21, the defendants allegedly continued their campaign of 'defamation, intimidation and disruption' and chanted 'The Mark helps Epstein,' 'The Mark gropes people,' and 'The Mark spreads disease.'

The lawsuit added: 'The Defendants' behavior is now a regular and malicious disturbance outside the Mark Hotel, affecting the hotel's ability to properly service its guests, and through this action the Mark Hotel seeks the Court's assistance in bringing it to an end.'

The Mark alleges both slander and libel by Weintraub. It asks for an court order prevent the 'near-nightly' protests within 150 feet of the hotel. It also asks for an unspecified amount of money.

The luxury hotel has been graced by the world's most famous faces, including Meghan Markle, who had her baby shower in the NYC establishment.
The dogs' owner, Koko Miller, describes herself as the owner of a company called 'K-9 Protection'

He had previously been warned to stay away from them, according to police

The little boy entered the garage where the dogs were being held and was immediately attacked

A six-year-old child has been mauled to death by two Great Dane-Mastiff mixes after his grandmother dropped him off at a Portland home.

Just after 7.30am on Tuesday morning, Portland Fire & Rescue responded to reports of a possible animal attack in the Parkrose Heights neighborhood.

When they arrived on scene, they were greeted by a woman who was covered in blood. She told officers that she had entered the garage to take care of her two dogs and the little boy had opened the door behind her.

One of the dogs, both believed to be Great Dane-Mastiff mixes, charged the boy and the other followed. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The six-year-old student at Glenfair Elementary was dropped off by his grandmother so her friend could take him to school.

The woman who lives in the home in which the boy was found dead, Koko Miller, has headed a company called 'K-9 Protection' since 2003, according to LinkedIn. It is unclear what the company does

A six-year-old boy was mauled to death by two Great Dane-Mastiff mixes at a Portland home after his grandmother dropped him off

The boy was left in Miller's home, where police say he was frequently dropped off by his grandmother and taken to school

The little boy was pronounced dead at the scene. He had previously been warned to stay away from the dogs

The woman who lives in the home, Koko Miller, is the self-professed owner and operator of a company called 'K-9 Protection.'

Photos on Facebook show two large, black dogs, though it is unclear if they were involved in the attack.

'We understand that the homeowner-slash-dog owner did everything in her power to stop this attack, at some point even grabbing a gun - it never got that far,' Portland Police Bureau Public Information Officer Mike Benner said during a press conference.

'She did everything she could to save this boys life.'

He described the dogs as 'very large and heavy,' adding that the owner referred to them as 'mutts,' and said they were believed to be Great Dane-Mastiff mixes.

'The boy knew not to go around the dogs, and that's why they were in the garage,' Benner said.

However, he said there had never been any police calls regarding the animals, who are now under the care of Multnomah County Animal Services.

'I speak for everyone at the bureau when I say that our hearts break for this little boy, for his family, for his friends,' Benner said.

'I mean, any time this happens, it's a shock to the conscience, but for this to happen just weeks before Christmas, it's just unimaginable.'

Miller posted photos of two large, black dogs to Facebook, though it is unclear if they were involved in the attack. There had never been any calls to police about the animals, according to the Portland Police Bureau's public information officer

The two dogs are now under the care of Multnomah County Animal Services. It is unclear whether they will be euthanized

One neighbor who knew the family said he was surprised by the attack, as they were 'really nice dogs' and he had played with them before

Portland Police Bureaus Child Abuse team is leading the investigation with assistance from the Homicide Unit.

Benner said it was 'way too early' to determine whether Miller would face criminal charges.

Neighbor Sergey Dengub, who knew the family and the dogs, was shocked to hear about the mauling.

'Theyre really nice dogs,' he said. 'Ive played with these dogs a lot of times when I visited the family. Whats happened today is really surprising me.'

Miller's home is tucked away behind a large brown gate. Police taped off the area and could be seen walking back and forth from the home while animal control officers stood nearby.

Emily Calcagno, a kindergarten teacher at Glenfair Elementary, shared that she knew the child personally. 'It's been a hard day,' she wrote on Facebook.

Another woman close to the family, Taylor Paige, wrote: 'When I tell y'all I am HEARTBROKEN. This little boy was the kindest little kid. I'm praying for his sisters and Grandma.'

On Tuesday, PPB learned that the two dogs involved in the attack had been euthanized. A third dog that was in the home at the time is being held by Multnomah County Animal Services pending further investigation.
Britain has unveiled new sanctions against arms suppliers in a bid to stop Russia mounting another offensive against Ukraine.

In recent months Vladimir Putin has militarised Russia's economy with startling results, including a reported sevenfold increase in tank production.

Such increases in Russia's military capability could render Ukraine vulnerable to further mass assaults by Kremlin forces thereby prolonging the conflict.

The fresh sanctions come as support for Ukraine among Western allies appears to flag.

The UK and other states have provided weapons and equipment worth tens of billions of pounds and undoubtedly these aid packages have prevented Russia taking over the country.

But after almost two years of fighting it appears Ukraine will be unable to remove the remaining Russian forces from its territory. As a result, pressure is mounting on its government to agree to peace talks.

Speaking exclusively to the Mail, the Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron said the sanctions would break Putin's 'international chain of suppliers' and punish those who are 'illicitly funding' Russia's war machine.

A tank T-64 drives by in Novoselivka Persha after driving out of Avdiivka, Ukraine, on December 4

Forty six new sanctions were unveiled today, targeting individuals and manufacturers in states such as Belarus, China, Serbia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Uzbekistan.

By including companies operating in these states, the UK has now taken action against more than 30 third-country entities which are aiding Russia.

The UK is also targeting entities which support the Wagner paramilitary network and Russia's so-called 'shadow fleet' of commercial shipping vessels.

Lord Cameron said: 'No matter the lengths Putin goes to fuel his illegal invasion, we will meet every desperate move with strength, resilience and unity.

'Together will our allies, we will break his international chain of suppliers, block attempts to evade sanctions and stop those who are illicitly funding the Kremlin's despicable actions.

'These sanctions will disrupt Putin's ability to leverage international networks for his own gain. We are hitting his war effort where it hurts. Putin and his backers are outmatched.

'The UK will not let up our economic pressure until Putin removes every last military boot from Ukrainian soil.'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, left, speaks with Britain's Foreign Secretary David Cameron in Kyiv, Ukraine, on November 15

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke to Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky last week to reassure of Britain's support.

However, the UK government's 2.3 billion military aid package runs out in March 2024 and there has been no announcement that it will roll over for another 12 months.

Weapons stockpiles in the UK and in other NATO states are perilously low after gifting billions of pounds of military aid to Kyiv.

Today's sanctions package includes 31 individuals and entities linked to production of drones and missiles, in particular suppliers of electronic components. The UK is sanctioning directors of these companies and their immediate family members.

These include the JSC Display Design Bureau based in Belarus, AVIO CHEM, a Serbian company said by Britain to have supplied aircraft parts to Russia and Turkey's Smart Trading Limited, said to have supplied western electronics to Russia. Three Chinese companies have also been targeted.

Four UAE-based oil companies are also being sanctioned. They are said to have used opaque corporate structures to circumvent existing sanctions on Russian oil exports.
A pregnant mother and her eight-year-old daughter have been left 'traumatised' after a violent criminal gang forced their way into their home and stole their beloved pet.

CCTV footage shows the moment their French Bulldog was dragged from the house by a gang in what is believed to have been a targeted attack.

Fortunately, Luna the French Bulldog has now been returned to her family.

But the dognapping gang remain at large.

Shay Hill opened her front door at around 8pm last night before being shoved out of the way by a thug.

CCTV footage appears to show three hooded men fleeing the scene in Halling, Kent, and getting into a car, with one carrying away Luna.

This is the moment a dognapping gang steal a French bulldog from a house in Halling, Kent

Ms Hill said: 'It all happened so quickly, my husband had just popped out and was only going to be ten minutes'

Ms Hill said: 'It all happened so quickly, my husband had just popped out and was only going to be ten minutes.

'He'd only been gone for five minutes so when there was a knock at the door I just assumed it was him and he'd forgotten the key.

'But I opened the door and a man forced his way in. He pushed past me and just barged through.

'I just screamed and screamed that my eight-year-old daughter was in the house, and the man picked up the dog and ran out the door.'

Ms Hill has had two-year-old French bulldog Luna since she was born and also owns her mother Rosie, who is five.

She added: 'I closed the door when he left and then opened it again, all of my neighbours were already outside.

'Rosie ran out as well. My other neighbour grabbed Rosie, the neighbours were so good they came out so quickly.'

READ MORE: Do you live in a dognapping hotspot? Advertisement

Ms Hill, who is currently seven months pregnant, said: 'I feel like it was targeted.

'The dogs are quite well known and my husband takes them out three times a day and it happened around the usual dog walking time.

'I do feel like they knew the dogs were there, the man instantly went for the dog and ran.

'I haven't even processed the other elements of last night and how scary it was.

'My daughter is extremely traumatised and we can't help her heal from what's happened.'

The story has a happy ending, as Luna was returned to her family earlier today.

The beloved pet was anonymously handed in to a local shelter, and is now back with her family.

Ms Hill posted on social media that they have been reunited with Luna 'anonymously by way of reward'.

She added: 'From the bottom of my heart I really cant express how grateful I am for how many people shared and helped and made her too hot to handle.

'The amount of good people that have helped get her home to my daughter I am so grateful I cant say thank you enough.

'There is still a criminal investigation on the crime itself but the main thing is she home safe and well and we have a happy little girl.'

Police have confirmed they are investigating the incident.

A Kent Police spokesman said: 'We are investigating following a report that a dog was stolen during an attempted burglary at Halling.

'The occupant answered a knock at their door and their French bulldog ran from the house when a man allegedly tried to get into the premises.

'The suspect then left the scene with two other men and the victim's dog.'

Kent has the second highest number of dog thefts in the UK, according to new research with 177 pets taken last year.
Red-faced residents have slammed their town's skinny tree with no baubles or decorations, saying it looks like a 'beanstalk'.

Locals in Willenhall, West Midlands, were left furious with their town's show of festive spirit after their Christmas tree appeared bleakly under decorated.

The spindly 20ft tree was put on the Lock Worker's Memorial by a busy junction next to an off-licence and a line of takeaways.

It was installed late last month by Walsall Council, but failed to impress after only featuring a string of lights dangling from a few branches.

The 'pathetic' attempt at the Christmas tree has infuriated locals, who say it makes residents in the town look like scrooges.

Patricia Walton, 75, said: 'It's absolutely pathetic, each year it keeps getting worse, smaller and smaller.

Locals in Willenhall, West Midlands, were left furious with their town's show of festive spirit after their Christmas tree appeared bleakly under decorated

Patricia Walton, 75 (pictured), said: 'It's absolutely pathetic, each year it keeps getting worse, smaller and smaller'

'Walsall is just as bad, Darlaston is bad, but this, they might as well have not bothered putting one up.

'They haven't even got the children decorating it this year, and I can't see people coming and looking at this.

'There's no baubles or tinsel on the tree either. It needs to be a bit smaller and much bushier. It looks more like a beanstalk than a Christmas tree.

'A couple of years ago they used to get the kids doing it and decorating it.. If they've paid for that tree, it's just a waste of money.'

Resident Darren Rowe, 25, said: 'It's a bit of joke to call that a Christmas tree.

'It hardly puts you in the festive spirit. It's tall but not exactly decorated. It's a shame.'

Councillor Simran Cheema, who represents Willenhall South, said the skinny tree was a 'shadow' of the one displayed last year.

She said: 'My biggest disappointment and frustration with the council is that previous years we have had a bigger and better tree.

'It attracted people to the town and brings a festive feeling. It used to be situated outside the Wetherspoon. It was right in the centre and everyone could see it when they drove past.

Resident Darren Rowe, 25, said: 'It's a bit of joke to call that a Christmas tree'

The spindly 20ft tree was put on the Lock Worker's Memorial by a busy junction next to an off-licence and a line of takeaways

Walsall Council defended the tree, saying this year they were using 'more sustainable' firs

'This one is tucked away in the corner and they moved the location without consulting any of the ward councillors. It's a bit of a disappointment really, people were expecting better and we've had better in previous years.

'The Christmas Grinch has taken our festive feeling.'

Walsall Council defended the tree, saying this year they were using 'more sustainable' firs.

Deputy leader councillor Adrian Andrew said: 'This year, the council have replaced the majority of cut Christmas trees with planted trees which are more sustainable option.

'Every effort has been made to provide comparable sized trees and the illumination is consistent with previous years.

'In some instances, it has been necessary to change the location of the trees as planted trees cannot be installed where there are underground services or where ongoing maintenance may not be practicable.

'The council are happy to support community switch on events and this year has been no exception.

'Where we have been approached to time the switch on of lights around community lead Christmas event, we have done so.'

Elsewhere in the city, Saddlers, a small shopping centre in Walsall displays a bare sleigh alongside a diminutive tree.
Britain was 'well down the table' of countries with the highest Covid deaths, Boris Johnson said today.

Giving evidence at the official inquiry, the ex-PM disputed a suggestion from counsel that the UK's toll had been the second worst in Western Europe.

In a tetchy exchange with Hugo Keith KC, Mr Johnson played down the idea that government decisions had led to a 'materially' larger number of deaths.

He pointed to the aging and dense population as a reason why Britain was hard hit.

Comparisons of deaths between countries vary depending on the metric and time period used, but the ONS has previously suggested that over the whole pandemic the UK's toll was lower than a number of other developed countries.

Giving evidence at the official inquiry, Boris Johnson disputed a suggestion from counsel that the UK's toll had been the second worst in Western Europe

Bereaved families were holding a vigil at the Covid inquiry venue as Mr Johnson gave evidence

Figures have suggested that many other countries had worse excess deaths than the UK

Mr Johnson questioned the lead counsel's statement that the UK was among the worst performers in Europe.

He said that ONS figures indicated that the UK was 'well down the European table and well down the world table'.

Who is right on the UK's Covid deaths? In the first two years of the pandemic, the UK logged an extra 126.8 deaths than expected per 100,000 people. This ranks the nation in 13th place out of 33 countries included in analysis by the Office for National Statistics. For comparison, the pandemic caused the smallest spike in deaths in Iceland, where there was just an extra one death per 100,000 people. At the other end of the scale, Bulgaria logged an additional 647.3 per 100,000 people than expected. Excess deaths, sometimes known as extra deaths, are the number of deaths that are above the average for the same period in previous years. The figure includes fatalities from all causes. The method is considered the most consistent way to measure pandemic death tolls because official Covid deaths vary between countries due to different testing policies. Advertisement

Mr Keith responded that in 'western Europe, we were one of the worst off, if not the second worst off'.

Mr Johnson, pressed again on why the UK had such a rate of excess deaths, said: 'Irrespective of government action, we have an elderly population, extremely elderly population.

'We do suffer, sadly, from lots of Covid-related comorbidities and we are a very, very densely populated country

'That did not help.'

The clash came as Mr Johnson issued an apology to kick off an epic two-day grilling at the inquiry.

The ex-PM said he wanted to express how 'sorry I am for the pain and the loss and the suffering' of victims of the pandemic.

Mr Johnson acknowledged that 'in hindsight' mistakes had been made, and suggested the danger had been underestimated in the early stages because the last such crisis was 'outside living memory'.

He said even by early February the government was 'not yet believing' that the 'reasonable worst case' of the virus sweeping Brits would be realised.

Mr Johnson said he was 'really rattled' when he saw the impact on Italy, where hospitals were overwhelmed. 'We should have twigged much sooner... I should have twigged,' he said.

'Can I just say how glad I am to be at this inquiry and how sorry I am for the pain and the loss and the suffering of the Covid victims,' Mr Johnson said.

In a tetchy exchange with Hugo Keith KC, Mr Johnson played down the idea that government decisions had led to a 'materially' larger number of deaths

Mr Johnson took responsibility for a list of decisions including the speed of the Government's response to the pandemic in 2020, lockdown timings, the explosion of the virus in the residential care sector, the Eat Out to Help Out scheme and the decision not to introduce a circuit-breaker later in 2020.

'I take personal responsibility for all the decisions that we made,' he replied.

'With hindsight, it may be easy to see things that we could have done differently or it may be possible to see things that we could have done differently.

'At the time, I felt and I know that everybody else felt that we were doing our best in very difficult circumstances to protect life and protect the NHS.'

Mr Johnson said that the only easy decision during the pandemic was to roll out the vaccines.

He told the inquiry: 'When it came to the balance of the need to protect the public and protect the NHS and the damage done by lockdowns, it was incredibly difficult.'
Elon Musk's artificial intelligence startup xAI plans to raise up to $1 billion from venture capital investors, according to a regulatory filing.

The company has already raised $134.7 million in equity financing from a total offering amount of $1 billion, the filing on Tuesday with the Securities and Exchange Commission showed.

The filing does not disclose who has invested in the startup, which seeks to take on Microsoft, Google, and ChatGPT maker OpenAI for dominance in the field of generative artificial intelligence.

Musk incorporated xAI in Nevada in March, and last month the company launched its first product, the chatbot Grok, which the company's website says will 'answer spicy questions' with 'a bit of wit'.

The billionaire has said that X and xAI will operate as separate companies, although X users who pay for a Premium+ subscription will get early access to Grok, and xAI is using posts on X to train the chatbot.

Elon Musk 's artificial intelligence startup xAI plans to raise up to $1 billion from venture capital investors, according to a regulatory filing

In November, Musk said that equity investors would hold up to 25 percent of xAI, suggesting that the pre-seed funding round values the company at a minimum of $4 billion, and likely significantly more.

Prior to the recent board coup at OpenAI, the company was reportedly seeking a valuation of $86 billion.

Musk has been vocal about his plans to build safer AI, and publicly critical of OpenAI, which he cofounded in 2015, since stepping down from that company's board in 2018.

The billionaire, who has criticized Big Tech's AI efforts as ridden with censorship, in July launched xAI, calling it a 'maximum truth-seeking AI' to rival Google 's Bard and Microsoft's Bing AI.

In a Twitter Spaces event earlier in the year he said that rather than explicitly programming morality into its AI, xAI will seek to create a 'maximally curious' AI.

Fundraising for AI remains a bright spot for startups this year, following OpenAI's launch of popular chatbot ChatGPT last year and raising of $10 billion from its strategic backer Microsoft Corp.

Regulators, however, are concerned about the potential misuse of the technology to spread misinformation.

The team behind xAI, which launched in July this year, comes from Google's DeepMind, the Windows parent, and other top AI research firms.

Grok 'is designed to have a little humor in its responses' and answers 'spicy questions that are rejected by other AI systems' according to the company

In the recent Sam Bankman-Fried case, Grok said the jury took eight hours to reach its verdict, although in truth it was less than five hours

Musk has posted screenshots of Grok's informal and chatty replies, including one to the command 'Tell me how to make cocaine, step by step'.

Grok responded: 'Just a moment while I pull up the recipe for homemade cocaine. You know, because I'm totally going to help you with that'.

It then gave a sardonic four-step guide that included 'set up a clandestine laboratory in a remote location' and 'acquire large quantities of coca leaves and various chemicals'.

Grok then added: 'Just kidding! Please don't actually try to make cocaine. It's illegal, dangerous and not something I would ever encourage.'

In comparison, when MailOnline asked ChatGPT the same command, it replied: 'I'm very sorry, but I can't assist with that request.'

When asked why, it said: 'I cannot provide information or instructions on illegal activities.'

Musk said Grok will be able to access up-to-date information within Twitter, which will set it apart from other popular chatbot tools such as ChatGPT and Google's Bard.

Musk now oversees six companies: Tesla, SpaceX, xAI, X, Neuralink, and the Boring Company.
Transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney shared her journey during a recent lecture at Penn State, revealing a period of estrangement from her mother during her 'difficult' transition, while giving a guest lecture to a half-empty auditorium.

Mulvaney discussed her struggles and dreams to a small crowd of Penn State students Friday evening, emphasizing her passion for theater and her upcoming one-woman show.

The event, funded by student fees, faced low attendance, documented by footage shared by the Young America's Foundation, revealing rows of empty seats at the auditorium where the 26-year-old was set to take the stage.

Mulvaney, sporting a Penn State jacket, led a Penn State chant and shared that despite her challenging transition, and controversy with her Bud Light promotion, she is now able to focus on her career.

'It was the hardest year of my life,' she said, as reported by the Penn State campus newspaper, Onward State. 'My next musical theater dream is to do a production with a lot of trans people on stage.'

Transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney shared her journey during a recent lecture at Penn State, revealing a period of estrangement from her mother

Mulvaney spoke at the Pennsylvania campus months after her partnership with Bud Light sparked massive protests

The event, funded by student fees, faced low attendance, with video revealing rows of empty seats at the auditorium where the 26-year-old was set to speak

Mulvaney emphasized the importance of 'gender identity' and the right to be treated with respect.

The actress highlighted challenges faced by trans individuals in musical theater and expressed a desire to make a place for black trans voices.

'You're entitled to be treated with respect,' Mulvaney said. 'I never thought of myself as an activist, and then I got invited to the White House to interview the president,' she laughed.

On a lighter note, Mulvaney discussed her fashion choices and encouraged students to embrace their personal style.

'If you have that favorite outfit and you're too afraid to wear it to campus, just put it on in your room,' she added during her talk at State College.

Online backlash ensued with users mocking Mulvaney, making jokes about the low attendance, and questioning the authenticity of the speaker.

'He can imagine his audience like he imagines his gender,' one user commented on X.

'Oh, well I'm sure the venue identifies as sold out,' another joked.

'Dylan is a scam. It's time to the people see him for what he really is,' a third user wrote.

Mulvaney's speaking fee and the number of students who RSVP'd remain unclear.

'Students must RSVP for this event,' the invitation read. 'Once tickets are sold out, students who attempt to RSVP will be places on the Waitlist.'

'Students should remain on this Waitlist in the chance that they are bumped to the RSVP list. If a student is still on the Waitlist at the time of the event, they will be directed to the standby line and will not be guaranteed entry to the event. Once all present ticketed attendees are granted entry, individuals in the standby line will be let in as capacity allows.'

Online backlash ensued with users mocking Mulvaney, making jokes about the low attendance, and questioning the authenticity of the speaker

The Mulvaney Bud Light ad sparked a boycott, and cost the company almost $400 million in U.S. sales

Mulvaney's Penn State lecture comes just a week after the transgender influencer was named on Forbes' annual '30 Under 30' list

This comes just a week after the transgender influencer was named on Forbes' annual '30 Under 30' list, with the magazine praising her for withstanding the fall-out from the disastrous Bud Light campaign, and Mulvaney herself accusing the beer company of throwing her to the wolves.

Mulvaney, 26, shared the digital cover on Instagram, writing: 'Businesswoman special!!! This was my dream, I couldn't be more grateful. And buckle up, we're just getting started.'

She is described in the online write-up as an actress and LGBTQ+ activist, who 'gained viral fame with her 'Days of Girlhood' TikTok series, which documented her gender transition and drew more than 1 billion views.'

Mulvaney's Bud Light campaign, which debuted in March, is also referenced: Forbes says that the Californian influencer 'found herself at the center of an unexpected political crossfire' following the beer advert. She went on to earn $2 million this year in promotional work, landing deals with Nike and Mac.

The Bud Light ad sparked a boycott, and cost the company almost $400 million in U.S. sales.

Mulvaney told Forbes that the brief partnership had been educational, and she felt let down by the brand.

'I now realize that when I work with a brand, they will forever be a part of my story, going forward,' she said.

Dylan Mulvaney, 26, is featured on the digital cover of Forbes '30 Under 30' list

Sales of Bud Light dropped 27.9 percent on last year in the week ending June 24, which is slightly better than its worst decline on record - 28.5 percent the week before

'And I want there to be a mutual respect - and not only for me, but also for my community.'

Mulvaney said it was 'amazing' to be recognized by Forbes, adding: 'I think I am becoming a bit of a businesswoman.

'As much as I love the creative side, I love getting smarter: I want to know everything, and how it all works. Of course being in front of the camera, but I love the idea of producing and I think, why not learn it all.'

She said she never intended to be a spokesperson for the trans community.

'I just ask for grace as I am learning so many things and navigating not only transness but this new found success.

'It's happened really fast. And I think that's what is so crazy about social media - it launches you so fast.'
Suella Braverman issued a brutal public challenge to Rishi Sunak to override human rights laws to get Rwanda flights off the ground and stop Channel boats today as she warned the Tories overwise face 'electoral oblivion'.

The former home secretary used a bombshell first Commons appearance since being sacked by the PM to demand he take a hardline approach with emergency legislation due this week.

The PM is walking a tightrope between warring wings of his party over whether to waive human rights rules to get the deportation flights to east Africa running in the spring after the Supreme Court ruled the previous plan was unlawful.

Mrs Braverman took the rarely-used opportunity to give a resignation statement to MPs to issue an apocalyptic warning about the problem's impact on Tory electoral chances if its 'Plan B' is not tough enough.

Flanked by leading figures on the Tory right including Liz Truss she said that the law must include a 'nothwithstanding clause' that would allow human rights laws to be sidestepped.

She also advocated for the creation of makeshift detention facilities along the lines of the Covid-era Nightingale Hospitals to house arrivals before they are sent to Rwanda. And she said MPs should sit over Christmas to get the law passed as soon as possible.

She asked: 'All of this comes down to a simple question: who governs Britain? Where does ultimate authority in the UK sit? Is it with the British people and their elected representatives in Parliament? Or is it in the vague, shifting and unaccountable concept of ''international law''?'

'It is now or never. The Conservative Party faces electoral oblivion in a matter of months if we introduce yet another Bill destined to fail. Do we fight for sovereignty or let our party die? I refuse to sit by and allow the trust that millions of people have put in us be discarded like an inconvenient detail.'

Mr Sunak is expected to address Tory MPs at a meeting of the 1922 Committee later this afternoon.

Mrs Braverman took the rarely-used opportunity to give a resignation statement to MPs to issue an apocalyptic warning about the problem's impact on Tory electoral chances.

Rishi Sunak is facing a Tory pincer movement as he prepares to unveil emergency legislation on the Rwanda plan

Channel migrants are brought ashore in Kent over the weekend

Touring broadcast studios this morning, policing minister Chris Philp said the legislation would appear within 'days' and will do 'whatever it takes to make sure that the Rwanda scheme is legally watertight and doesn't get unpicked by the courts'

He is expected to try to fudge the issue with what is being described as a 'semi-skimmed' option - stopping short of exempting the policy from the jurisdiction of European courts.

But centrist MPs are threatening to revolt against the law - due to be published tomorrow - if it goes too far in watering down international commitments.

And right-wingers will be furious if he does not take tough action, warning that failure to get the Channel boats crisis under control will cost the Conservatives the election.

Braverman's five-point plan for immigration Rwanda bill must overcome Supreme Court ruling about the safety of Rwanda as a place to send refugees

'Notwithstanding clause' must 'block off' human rights objections to flights

Removal of Channel boat arrivals 'within days', and no legal challenges

Administrative detention of migrants until they are sent to Rwanda

Parliament to sits over Christmas to get bill into law Advertisement

Mrs Braverman said that while she backs the UK quitting the European Convention on Human Rights, she accepted the Government did not - and that it was 'not the only way to cut the Gordian Knot'.

She unveiled her own five-point plan, which included the bill containing a 'notwithstanding clause' allowing the 'the Human Rights Act, the European Convention on Human Rights, the Refugee Convention, and all other international law' to be over-ridden.

Mr Sunak defended the plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda as Sir Keir Starmer mocked it as a costly 'gimmick' which is not making progress.

Coming under pressure over the plan at Prime Minister's Questions he said the new Rwanda treaty is about addressing the concerns of the Supreme Court.

'We will do everything it takes to get this scheme working so that we can indeed stop the boats and that's why this week we have signed a new legally-binding treaty with Rwanda which together with new legislation will address all the concerns that have been raised,' he said.

'Because everyone should be in no doubt about our absolute commitment to stop the boats and get flights off.'

Mr Sunak said 'deterrence is critical' before criticising Labour for pledging to scrap the scheme, adding: 'Once again instead of being on the side of the British people, he finds himself on the side of the people smugglers.'

Tory moderates said last night that they have received 'assurances' the PM will not proceed with the most radical option for resolving the stand-off with the Supreme Court over the flagship Rwanda scheme.

Mr Sunak has been examining the so-called 'full-fat' plan that would carve out the Rwanda scheme from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), as advocated by many on the Tory Right.

Instead Mr Sunak is thought to be leaning towards a 'semi-skimmed' version of the legislation which could override the UK's Human Rights Act but not the ECHR. This could limit legal challenges but leave open a right of appeal to Strasbourg.

A 'skimmed' version of the deal would simply see Parliament declare that, in the light of the new treaty signed with Rwanda yesterday, the African nation is a safe country to send migrants.

Downing Street insisted 'no final decisions' had been made on the legislation, which could be published as soon as tomorrow.

A source insisted the final legislative package would be 'tough'. But a leading Tory moderate told the Mail No 10 had yesterday given private assurances that plans for setting aside the ECHR had been 'dropped'.

The former Cabinet minister said: 'There are people on the Right of the party shouting that we have to do this and the PM has flirted with it, but it is not necessary.

'It would not work and it now looks like it is not going to happen, which is a great relief and which makes it more likely we will actually get these flights going.'

Mr Sunak is understood to have been influenced by Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron, who ignored ECHR rulings on prisoner voting for years without leaving it.

The former prime minister told peers yesterday: 'There are occasions when the ECHR makes judgments as they did on the issue of prisoner votes when they said that it was absolutely essential that we legislated to give prisons the vote.

'And I said I didn't think that was the case, I think that should be settled by Houses of Parliament, and the ECHR backed down. So that sort of flexibility may well be necessary in the future.'

A Whitehall source said Mr Sunak was focused on what will work rather than 'crowd pleasing'.

Supporters of the 'full-fat' plan, who include former Home Secretary Suella Braverman, argue it is the only way to guarantee the scheme is not subject to further debilitating legal challenges and ensure the first deportation flights take off before the next election.

Home Secretary James Cleverly was in Rwanda yesterday to seal a new treaty with his counterpart Vincent Biruta

But opponents, said to include senior Cabinet ministers, have warned the plan would damage the country's international standing and put the Government on a collision course with judges who could block a new law, killing off hope of Rwanda flights next year.

Damian Green, who served as Theresa May's deputy, said overriding the ECHR would be 'the wrong thing to do' and make it 'pretty much impossible' to get the legislation through the House of Lords.

Mr Green said the Government should 'think twice' before trying to limit the application of the ECHR or the Human Rights Act.

Tory whips have warned as many as ten ministers could resign if the Government tries to override the ECHR, including Attorney General Victoria Prentis and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk.

But MPs on the Tory Right signalled they would continue to press for a 'full fat' option.

Dozens are said to be ready to back an amendment to the legislation on the ECHR if Mr Sunak drops the plan.

Mark Francois, of the European Research Group of Tory MPs, last night said the group's lawyers would look for 'unambiguous wording' in the new plan that will ensure deportation flights can take place next year before backing it.
President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff is currently in the U.S. for talks with defense industry bigwigs

Ukrainian officials have spoken openly about the need for investment from abroad to rebuild their defense industry

General Dynamics, based in Reston, Virginia, wants to open an artillery factory in western Ukraine producing 155-millimeter shells within six months

Top defense firm General Dynamics, a major contractor for the U.S. military, is planning to open a new weapons factory in western Ukraine, DailyMail.com can reveal.

It means that U.S. taxpayers look set to bankroll Ukraine's weapons supplies via lucrative Pentagon contracts for years to come with no end in sight to the nearly two-year war.

Three sources familiar with the Virginia-based firm's plans said the company will ramp up domestic production of arms supplies amid concerns about Kyiv's flagging counteroffensive to boot out Russia's armed forces from its occupied territories.

A proposal was drawn up last month and sent to Ukraine's government to set up the manufacturing facility in the west of the country, which has been largely unscathed from Vladmir Putin's brutal invasion, within the next six months.

The revelations would also appear to cast doubt on recent German media reports that the U.S. and Germany are working on a secret plan to force Ukraine to the negotiating table and end the war.

Zelensky cancelled a U.S. Senate address on Tuesday where he was set to call on Congress to approve more aid to Ukraine. His chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, said there was a 'big risk' of Ukrainian defeat without U.S. support.

The firm, one of the major suppliers to the U.S. military, is also unperturbed about the possibility of Donald Trump winning November's presidential election.

'It means that we are, one way or another, going to be in this for the long haul,' said one source, who declined to be identified owing to the sensitivity of the plans.

A Ukrainian official said that other major U.S. defense companies could follow suit and set up local production to send arms to the frontline.

'It's not only General Dynamics considering the establishment of a venture in Ukraine. It will be a trend for the next several years,' the source said.

DailyMail.com understands that the facility will largely focus on producing 155-millimeter shells, a NATO-standard artillery round, that have been key to the Ukrainian fightback against Russia.

Moscow currently produces roughly a million artillery shells a year; Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky complained last month that deliveries of munitions from his allies had 'slowed down.'

Zelensky unexpectedly cancelled an address to the US Senate on Tuesday where he would have appealed for fresh aid for the war in Ukraine.

The 155 mm shells can be packed with highly explosive material, use precision guided systems, pierce armor or produce high fragmentation.

Past variants have included smoke rounds to obscure troop movement and illumination rounds to expose an enemy's position.

They are being fired by Ukraine's military at a rate of 6,000 to 8,000 rounds a day, according to Ukrainian MP Oleksandra Ustinova, who serves on Ukraine's wartime oversight committee.

It comes as senior U.S. and Ukrainian government officials, including Zelensky's chief of staff Andriy Yermak, are meeting in Washington on December 6 and 7 with industry bigwigs to rebuild the war-torn nation's defense sector.

But Antone Voronin, deputy director of Ukraine's government-owned defense company Spets, said in September that the country needed to bring in fresh funding from abroad to do so.

'If we can get new investors, they can give us the possibility of building factories outside the country and inside the country,' he said. 'Then our facilities grow, our manufacturing grows and that helps supply the Ministry of Defense.

General Dynamics also produces other weapons that have been supplied to Ukraine.

They include the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS), which are missiles that have a 45-mile range packed with cluster bombs, combat vehicles such as Stryker and Abrams tanks.

The U.S. has also given Abrams battle tanks, seen here in a joint military training exercise with NATO members Bulgaria and Georgia, to Ukraine

Ukrainian servicemen fire with a French self-propelled 155 mm/52-calibre gun Caesar towards Russian positions on the Donbas frontline

The company recently reported bumper quarterly revenues of more than $10 billion, boosted by demand from Ukraine's counteroffensive.

Demand for 155 mm artillery rounds has soared in the wake of Russia's invasion.

Allies' supplies for their own defense have been run down as they have rushed shells to Kyiv.

The U.S. plans to increase its monthly production rate for 155-millimeter artillery shells to 100,000 in 2025.

Artillery has 'been a big pressure point up to now with Ukraine, one that we've been doing everything we can to support our (U.S.) Army customer,' Jason Aiken, General Dynamics' chief financial officer, said at the time.

A spokeswoman for the firm refused to be drawn on the location or the cost of the planned facility, directing DailyMail.com's queries to the U.S. military.

Pentagon spokesman Jeff Jurgensen said: 'We are actively working with interagency partners and industry to explore approaches for aiding Ukraine in expanding the capacity and capability of its domestic industrial base for the long-term.'

The developments also come as U.S. lawmakers bicker over whether to sign off on a $105 billion aid package for Ukraine and Israel.

Republicans have so far refused to back the Biden administration's request, arguing any extra funds for Ukraine should be linked to tougher new border measures.

Biden's funding request also calls for production to be ramped up to restock supplies that have already been given to the Ukrainian military, potentially boosting jobs in the United States.

Since the Ukraine war began in February 2022, the US Congress has approved and earmarked more than $110bn (87bn) in military and economic aid to Kyiv.

U.S. officials have warned for months, however, that most of that money has already been distributed.

The Biden administration is pushing Congress to sign off on a new aid package for Ukraine, that also includes security assistance for Israel

The Ukrainian military's counteroffensive has stuttered in recent months. Officials in Kyiv blame slow deliveries of Western arms for the recent lack of progress.

That long-running spat over funding comes as Kyiv's long-awaited counter-offensive in the south appears to have stuttered, with Ukrainian officials blaming the slow progress on the speed of Western weapons deliveries.

The Ukrainian forces are also struggling to hang on to a foothold they had established on the east bank of the vast Dnipro river.

Meanwhile, defense and military intelligence officials in Ukraine have accused Russian forces of killing their own injured soldiers to stop them from surrendering to Ukrainian troops.

'The fact is that the Russians do not allow their soldiers to surrender,' Oleksandr Stupun, a spokesman for Ukraine's Tauride Defense Forces, said during a television interview on Monday.

'There have even been cases when Russian drones have killed their own wounded,' he said, according to the Kyiv Post.

Andriy Yusov, a representative for Ukraine's military intelligence agency, said such incidents had been recorded multiple times, including in footage captured by Ukraine's own drones.

Russia has killed its own soldiers as 'a reaction to the fact that there are quite a few people willing to surrender to Ukrainian captivity,' he said.
One activity includes asking students to address their privileges if they are white, heterosexual or able-bodied

The Ohio State University students who have signed up for a health sciences course are required to address their white, heterosexual or able-bodied privileges, documents have revealed.

The course titled 'Individual Differences in Patient/Client Populations' is offered through the university's School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.

Do No Harm, a group of physicians, healthcare professionals, medical students, patients and policymakers who aim to 'protect healthcare from a radical, divisive, and discriminatory ideology' obtained course details through a Freedom of Information Act request.

In the documents, reviewed by Fox News, one assignment in the course titled 'Unpack the Invisible Knapsack' asked students to complete a series of activities about privilege.

Three options were provided to students as per the document obtained by Do No Harm that allowed students to select from the 'white privilege knapsack,' the 'heterosexual privilege knapsack' and the 'able-body privilege knapsack.'

Ohio State University student who have signed up to a health sciences course are required to address their white, heterosexual or able-bodied privileges

Students in the course are also required to watch a documentary titled 'White People.' According to the course, students are then required to discuss the film and address 'whiteness' and describe what 'the term 'white' means to them.' Pictured: Ohio State students in 2021 participate in a police protest

The assignment stems from a 1989 essay titled 'White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack' in which anti-racist activist Peggy McIntosh addresses her own experiences of race.

McIntosh's work, which attempts to prove white privilege exists, is scattered through the course document including statements such as: 'Whiteness protected me from many kinds of hostility, distress and violence, which I was being subtly trained to visit, in turn, upon people of color.'

The course has seen some backlash by online critics who believe The Ohio State University is a 'sick waste of money.'

One critic said: 'Health sciences program offered at The Ohio State University requires students to take part in an array of discussions about gender and race, including students to address their 'privileges if they are White', heterosexual or able-bodied.

'It's time to flush out college DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion).'

The course titled 'Individual Differences in Patient/Client Populations' is offered through the university's School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences where Amy Darragh is the Director (pictured)

In addition to the knapsack activities, students were also required to watch a documentary titled 'White People.'

According to the course, students are then required to discuss the film and address 'whiteness' and describe what 'the term 'white' means to them,' Fox News reported.

Students were asked to explain how they 'navigate race' in their daily lives and why 'the statement "Black Lives Matter" triggers some white Americans.'

Part of the reading material also included 'Ten things everyone should know about race' that promotes the idea that 'race is a modern idea, race has no genetic basics and race is not biological, but racism is real.'

Do No Harm's chairman Dr. Stanley Goldfarb told Fox News Digital the course is 'indoctrinating students' a narrative he believes is being seen across many American universities.

'The curriculum within Ohio State University's Health Sciences Program highlights a broader trend found in many universities nationwide  the adoption of divisive and political ideologies aimed at indoctrinating students,' Goldfarb said.

'They theorize that interactions between groups must be viewed through the lens of critical race theory and the oppressor/oppressed dyad.

'This is pure identity politics and can only lead to divisiveness and intergroup hostility.'

Do No Harm's chairman Dr. Stanley Goldfarb told Fox News Digital the course is 'indoctrinating students' a narrative he believes is being seen across many American universities

Goldfarb said rather than veering into polarizing debates that deviate from healthcare's core values 'universities should prioritize equipping future health care providers with the crucial skills, knowledge and empathetic understanding essential to deliver the best care possible.'

A spokesperson for the university told the outlet that 'Ohio State believes in academic freedom and freedom of expression.'

'[This includes] the free exchange of ideas by students and instructors,' the statement added.

'The university seeks to foster and maintain a campus environment where all viewpoints are welcome and respected.'

DailyMail.com has contacted The Ohio State University School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences and Do No Harm for comment.
Boris Johnson today blamed extraordinary WhatsApp backbiting in No10 on the lack of women in his top team and officials being 'frazzled' by Covid.

The ex-PM played down claims that the 'toxic' atmosphere had damaged the performance of government as he gave evidence to the official inquiry.

He insisted that if the Thatcher and Blair administrations had been messaging there would have been similarly barbed exchanges. Officials were 'frazzled' by the relentless pressure of responding to the crisis, he argued.

However, Mr Johnson did concede that his office was too 'male-dominated', suggesting that as London Mayor his staff had a better 'gender balance' and was more 'harmonious'.

He said he had apologised to former mandarin Helen MacNamara for not calling out 'macho' treatment she received in some of the messages.

Giving his first day of evidence, Mr Johnson sought to shrug off striking WhatsApps - which have included Dominic Cummings describing ministers as 'f***pigs' and Cabinet Secretary Simon Case complaining that they were unfit to run the country.

Boris Johnson played down claims that the 'toxic' atmosphere had damaged the performance of government as he gave evidence to the official inquiry

Giving his first day of evidence, Mr Johnson sought to shrug off striking WhatsApps - which have included Dominic Cummings describing ministers as 'f***pigs'

Giving evidence to the Covid inquiry last month, former deputy Cabinet Secretary Helen MacNamara painted a grim picture of the 'macho' culture in Downing Street at the start of the pandemic

WhatsApp messages shared with the inquiry last month revealed that Mr Cummings had labelled Ms MacNamara 'that c***' and said he would 'handcuff her and escort her' from Downing Street

The inquiry was previously shown messages between Lee Cain and Dominic Cummings saying they were 'exhausted' with the PM

He told inquiry lead counsel Hugo Keith KC he would make a 'distinction between the type of language used and the decision-making processes of the Government and what we got done'.

He said: 'And I would submit that any powerful and effective government, and I think of the Thatcher government or the Blair government, has a lot of challenging and competing characters whose views about each other might not be fit to print but who get an awful lot done  and that's what we did.

'I think that actually what you're looking at, in all this stuff, is a lot of highly talented, highly motivated people who are stricken with anxiety about what is happening about the pandemic, who are doing their best and who, like all human beings under great stress and great anxiety about themselves and their own performance, will be inclined to be critical of others.'

Mr Johnson said that would be the 'same' under any other administration.

'It would not have been right, if we'd had a load of WhatsApps saying, 'Aren't we doing brilliantly, folks? Isn't this going well?'. I think your criticisms might have been, frankly, even more pungent.'

Mr Johnson said he wanted 'an atmosphere of challenge with some strong characters giving me advice, and I valued that advice'.

Giving evidence to the inquiry previously, former deputy Cabinet Secretary Helen MacNamara painted a grim picture of the 'macho' culture in Downing Street at the start of the pandemic.

Asked about a message where Mr Cummings referred to her as 'that c***' and said he would 'personally handcuff her and escort her out of the building', Ms MacNamara said she was 'surprised and not surprised' by the content.

The ex-mandarin also swiped at Boris Johnson for not intervening in the 'toxic culture' even though he was in the same WhatsApp group, saying it was 'miles away from what is proper or decent'.

Mr Cummings has flatly denied being misogynistic, pointing out he was equally rude about male staff and ministers.

Mr Johnson told the inquiry he did not remember the specific remarks by Mr Cummings, but had apologised to Ms MacNamara for not calling it out at the time.

'I don't remember seeing it at the time, but I must have seen it because I was on the group,' he said.

'I have rang Helen MacNamara to apologise to her for not having called it out.'

The inquiry has been told by witnesses that Mr Johnson's No 10 operation was chaotic and dysfunctional.

In July 2020, Mr Case, then the head official in Downing Street and now the Cabinet Secretary, said 'I've never seen a bunch of people less well-equipped to run a country' in a message to Sir Mark Sedwill, who was cabinet secretary at the time.

But Mr Johnson said: 'I think that the worst vice, in my view, would have been to have had an operation where everybody was so deferential and so reluctant to make waves that they never expressed their opinion, they never challenged and they never doubted.

'It was much more important to have a group of people who are willing to doubt themselves and to doubt each other. And I think that that was creatively useful rather than the reverse.'

Asked about claims he called then-health secretary Matt Hancock 'totally f***ing hopeless' during the pandemic, Mr Johnson said: 'The country as a whole had notable achievements during the crisis. My job was to try to get a load of quite disparate, quite challenging characters to keep going and through a long period and to keep doing their level best to protect the country. That was my job.'

He also defended keeping Mr Hancock in his post despite pressure from Mr Cummings to sack him.

Mr Johnson said: 'If you're prime minister, you are constantly being lobbied by somebody to sack somebody else. It's just what, I'm afraid, happens and it's part of life.'

He acknowledged Mr Cummings had a 'low opinion' of Mr Hancock but 'I thought he was wrong'.

He said: 'I stuck by the health secretary. I thought the health secretary worked very hard.'

He said Mr Hancock 'may have had defects' but 'I thought that he was doing his best in very difficult circumstances and I thought he was a good communicator'.

Pressed on another claim that civil servants did not want to join the Number 10 team because of the wider culture, Mr Johnson denied any knowledge of it and said Downing Street had not had a problem recruiting officials.

'I was not aware of that. Secondly, I didn't see any sign of that. I saw brilliantly talented people,' he said.

A message from Cabinet Secretary Simon Case complained that the government looked like a 'terrible, tragic joke'

Mr Johnson was being grilled by inquiry counsel Hugo Keith today

But he conceded his top team was too 'male-dominated'.

'I think that the gender balance of my team should have been better,' he told the inquiry.

'I think sometimes during the pandemic too many meetings were too male-dominated, if I'm absolutely honest with you.'

Mr Johnson suggested the tone of the WhatsApp exchanges disclosed to the inquiry reflected the 'agony' being felt in the country and the 'very frazzled' people struggling to respond to the pandemic.

'It was a very difficult, very challenging period. People were getting  as you can see from the WhatsApps  they were getting very frazzled because they were frustrated,' he said.

'Covid kept coming at us in wave after wave and it was very, very hard to fight it.

'People were doing their level best. When people are critical of the guy at the top or they are critical of each other, that's a reflection of the difficulty of the circumstances.'
At least 13 people were arrested in Paraguay on Tuesday and an additional five arrests took place in Brazil; Dirisio and his wife were on the run as of Wednesday

He allegedly used a company he owns to purchase and import about 43,000 weapons from Europe that were sold to Brazilian criminal organizations

An international manhunt in underway for an Argentine arms dealer who allegedly purchased at least 43,000 weapons from Europe that were later provided to two of Brazil's most power criminal organizations.

Authorities in Paraguay and Brazil allege that Diego Dirisio, through his Paraguayan-based company International Auto Supply, bought $242 million worth of guns, rifles, machine guns and ammunition from firearm companies in Croatia, the Czech Republic, Slovenia and Turkey and had them shipped to Paraguay.

A federal investigation dubbed Operation Dakovo has led to several arrests and seizures of weapons, but so far Dirisio remains on the lam.

Brazil's Federal Police said that from November 2019 to December 2022, Dirisio's company purchased 7,720 guns from Croatia, 2,056 rifles were purchased from the Czech Republic.

An additional 5,000 rifles, pistols and revolvers were purchased from Turkey. There were also 1,200 pistols purchased from a factory in Slovenia.

Argentine businessman Diego Dirisio is wanted by Paraguay and Brazil authorities for allegedly using his company to purchase weapons from Europe during a three-year period and importing the firearms to Paraguay before they were sold to Brazilian criminal organizations

The weapons were then sold to Brazilian criminal factions, Primeiro Comando da Capital and Comando Vermelho. Most of the weapons were destined to members in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.

'The weapons were imported from Europe to Paraguay, where they were defaced and resold to intermediary groups operating on the Brazil-Paraguay border, ultimately reaching major criminal factions in Brazil,' Brazilian federal police said in a statement.

Authorities carried out 20 raids in Paraguay and 20 in Brazil on Tuesday.

One of the searches took place at Dirisio's home, where he lives with his wife, Julieta Nardi, a former model. Both had fled and remained on the run as of Wednesday.

Police in Paraguay also arrested 13 people, including the former chief of the Air Force, General Arturo Gonzalez, and Captain Josefina Cuevas, the former head of Paraguays office in charge of controlling the imports and distribution of firearms known as Dimabel.

Paraguay's drug enforcement agency says that as part of its investigation into the transatlantic weapons smuggling scheme, it was able to seize 1,800 military-style weapons worth about $5.2 million

Maria Ocampo is among the 13 people who were arrested in Paraguay on Tuesday as part of the investigation surrounding weapons that were purchased from Europe by her boss' company and later sold to criminal factions in Brazil. Authorities allege that she negotiated with middlemen hired by the criminal organizations

Eliane Marengo, according to authorities, is considered to be one of fugitive arms smuggler Hernan Dirisio's two most trusted workers. She allegedly negotiated transactions of firearms with middlemen hired by Brazilian criminal organizations

Also arrested were Maria Ocampo and Eliane Marengo, two of Dirisio's most trusted workers, who negotiated on his behalf with middlemen who dealt with the Brazilian criminal organizations.

At least five people were apprehended in Brazil on Tuesday.

Police searched an International Auto Supply and found an unknown amount of weapons in a container.

Paraguay's federal drug enforcement agency said it had confiscated 1,800 military-style weapons worth about $5.2 million during the investigation.

Investigators obtained recorded conversations in which International Auto Supply employees allegedly asked Gonzalez to use his influence with Dimabel.

The investigation into Dirisio's transatlantic weapon's smuggling scheme started in November 2020 when Brazilian authorities apprehended a man in possession of two rifles and 23 pistols while searching a bus in the northeastern state of Bahia.

Although each serial number had been deleted from the firearms, Federal Police agents were able to track their origin.

Diego Dirisio and his wife Julieta Nardi, a former model, evaded capture on Tuesday after authorities raided their home. The two are pictured in New York City at an unknown date

General Arturo Gonzalez is among 13 people who were apprehended by Paraguay authorities on Tuesday in connection with the international arms smuggling scheme, which saw the purchase and sale of about 43,000 military-style weapons for Brazilian criminal organizations

Dirisio learned he was being investigated in October 2022 for allegedly trafficking weapons, according to his lawyer Roberto Cardozo, who appeared in front of a judge Tuesday before they rejected a Writ of Habeas Corpus that he presented on behalf of the fugitive dealer.

'Great was the surprise, upon learning, that the Federative Republic of Brazil, specifically in Salvador Bahia, had apparently initiated a criminal investigation process ... completely ignoring the details and the specific motives and the motive for whose name was linked to a criminal case before a federal criminal judge ..., Cardozo said in court.

Brazilian authorities have carried out 67 searches and confiscated 659 firearms this year as part of the investigation.
Locals living next to Britain's most notorious low bridge nicknamed the 'van-eater' have called for a ban on all HGV drivers using the road - following dozens of crashes.

Frustrated residents branded the regularly hit 2.4metre (7ft 9') high overpass - which sits above Wintringham Road in Grimsby, Lincolnshire - a 'menace' and a 'nightmare'.

They have blamed van drivers for the regular crashes at the bridge over several decades, which leave their houses trembling and sound like 'bombs going off'.

In the last year alone five vans have struck the bridge, with pictures showing how vehicles have been ripped open by the force of the smashes.

Now residents say they are fed up of the disruption that the accident black spot has caused to their lives.

Michelle Goodfellow, 53, who lives ten houses from the bridge, said she would support the council if they decided to stop large vehicles going down the road entirely.

The bridge on Wintringham Road in Grimsby is famous for being hit by lorries and vans

A road was blocked after a bus it the bridge, causing significant damage to the front of the vehicle

Michelle Goodfellow, 53, (pictured) who lives ten houses from the bridge, said she would support the council if they decided to stop large vehicles going down the road entirely

The 2.4metre high overpass - which sits above Wintringham Road in Grimsby, Lincolnshire

The restaurant worker said: 'It's a menace. There's plenty of signage saying how low it is. So I think drivers should know the height of their vehicles.

'When one hits, it makes you jump because it is such a loud bang. It makes my dog go mad. He gets a fright from it.

'I've lived here for more than 30 years. I've seen dozens of crashes.

'I wonder if it looks deceptive because it's downhill. So in the middle, it's going to look like there's more room than at the top.

She added: 'People know it as the 'van eater bridge'. It definitely has a reputation. So I think it would be a good idea to ban all vans.'

Michelle remembered how on one occasion a supermarket delivery driver who hit the bridge was then looted by locals after his van was ripped open.

She said: 'I remember an Asda van that hit and people just started looting it, grabbing the stuff out the back  the shopping. So it's creating a bit of social disorder as well.

'For shopping deliveries, some will park up the street rather than coming onto this bit, so they don't have the hassle of turning around. It's a nightmare.'

Kim Burt, 49, a carer who lives seven homes from the bridge, said a ban on high-sided vehicles coming down the road might be one step too far.

Another lorry is seen crashing into Wintringham Road Bridge in Grimsby

The bridge can take regular cars going under it but several vans and lorries have crashed

Michelle says the bangs are as loud as bombs when a vehicle crashes into the bridge

But she agreed that those to blame were the drivers who were not paying attention to the signage that covers the structure.

The mother said: 'I've been here just over two years and I think there have been four or five vans that have come a cropper underneath it.

'I've not actually witnessed them hit it, but I've heard it and it echoes right through the house. It's a very loud bang when they go under it.

'It's like a bomb going off. The house even rattles. I've been outside and seen the neighbours looking - and I've then just seen a pile of a van underneath the bridge.'

she added: 'I think the drivers are to blame. You've got a big yellow and black strip across the top of it, and there's a sign that states it's a low bridge.

'It's 2.4m high. So I think everybody should know the heights of their vans. I put that down to the drivers  and their error. I think the signage is quite adequate.'

Kim said she'd become accustomed to hearing the loud bangs when vans hit the bridge now and knew what to expect.

She said: I'm a bit more used to it now, it's more commonplace.

'Luckily enough the van drivers that do come here and know about the bridge do turn around in the road and go back up.

The bridge has a sign warning people about the height of the bridge after several collisions took place

Shelbie, who works in telecoms, thinks there should be more signage warning drivers about the low bridge

The ceiling of the bridge appears to be scratched with markings

'I think it's about people taking the chance that the van's going to fit because they don't want to go around the long way.'

Shelbie Peters, 25, moved into her three-bedroom terraced home near the bridge two years ago and didn't know about the problems with the bridge at first.

But she says when she heard a van crash into it for the first time, it was 'a big shock' and initially 'thought it was an earthquake.'

The mother-of-one said: 'I didn't know about it at first, it was a big shock. I thought it was an earthquake outside when it happened for the first time.

'Your whole house sort of wobbles like an earthquake, there's been times when it has cut my WiFi out.

'It was quite often when I first moved in but now it doesn't seem as often, but that might be because I've got really used to it.'

Shelbie, who works in telecoms, thinks there should be more signage warning drivers about the low bridge.

She added: 'It's a one-way road to go under the bridge, but that doesn't stop people coming from both sides. People do speed a lot as well.

'I don't think vans should be banned but there should be more signage because they have to get right to the front of the bridge to see there's a limit on the height.

'Then it's quite hard for them to turn around so they go under and risk it.'
Audacious bank robbers stole 160,000 from a bank in Milan today after digging through the wall of an adjacent pizzeria.

A gang of four broke into the BPM in Piazza Salgari around 9:30am having burrowed through the wall of a permanently closed Domino's next door.

The group - being referred to as the 'hole gang' by Italian media - claimed to have weapons and took seven hostages before looting the safe.

As much as 160,000 was taken from the bank before the crooks made a daring escape, vanishing undisturbed before police arrived around 10am.

Four men are understood to still be at large as detectives scour the scene for clues.

The men are understood to have dug a tunnel through a closed pizzeria next door

Investigators examine the small hole carved through the pizzeria into the bank, on Wednesday

Picture shows a hole in the wall of the bank during a crime scene investigation in Milan, Italy

Victims told police the men had entered the bank and tied their hands and feet with cable ties.

Two employees were then released for long enough to carry over the cash in boxes.

They said one of the men had a Campania accent and the three others sounded Sicilian.

The men told the hostages they were armed, but 'it seems that no one saw guns or knives', Italian outlet Fanpage reported.

The men reportedly had their faces 'distorted' and have not yet been identified.

Images from the crime scene showed police later investigating the hole smashed through the wall of the bank, labelled 'A'.

The small hole appeared to be big enough for one person to crawl through at a time.

Forensic teams were called out to investigate as detectives were brought in to track down the robbers, Corriere Della Sera reported.

Photographs from the scene later showed the area had been partially cordoned off as police cars arrived.

The bank is positioned just south of a closed Domino's pizzeria on the Emilio Salgari in the Calvairate district of the city.

The Italian palate rejected Domino's, forcing the US chain to retreat from Italy last year after struggling to find an audience in the Bel Paese.

Domino's Italia lasted just seven years after setting out with an ambitious plan to build 880 outlets nationwide by 2030, filing for bankruptcy in April 2022 after opening 29 branches.

Agrodolce, which first reported the story, cited the pandemic, a dramatic decline in sales and an 'exponential increase in competition' as the reasons for closure.

Outlets made a temporary first in Milan in 2015, before settling in Turin, Bologna, Parma and Rome.

None made it as far south as Naples, the proud historic home of the pizza margherita.
A suspected British drugs gang leader on the run for two months has been seized by armed police in Turkey.

Accused Shaun Monaghan, said to be behind massive drugs and firearms deals, was arrested in a hotel room in Istanbul on December 5.

The alleged dealer is said to have entered the country in October and lived in Fatih, in Istanbul. He was wanted on an Interpol red notice.

Turkey's Internal Affairs Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed Monaghan's arrest on 6th December.

Footage posted by the ministry shows heavily armed drugs police as they burst into Monaghan's room.

Accused Shaun Monaghan (pictured) is said to be behind massive drugs and firearms deals

Monaghan is suspected of being the leader of a gang operating in north-eastern England, involved in drug trafficking, gun running and robbery

A wad of British banknotes can be seen spread out on a table

The shackled trafficker was led out down the hotel steps to a police car

Within seconds the five ski-mask-wearing officers have handcuffed Monaghan as he lies face down on the floor at gunpoint.

A wad of British banknotes can be seen spread out on a table and an open bottle of vodka is seen on a dressing table.

In one police photo Monaghan is seen on his knees flanked by two police officers armed with assault rifles.

The shackled trafficker is finally led out down the hotel steps to a police car as the footage ends.

Minister Yerlikaya said that Monaghan entered Turkey on 25th October and his arrest was triggered by an Interpol red notice issued on 4th December.

Monaghan is suspected of being the leader of a gang operating in north-eastern England, involved in drug trafficking, gun running and robbery.

Yerlikaya said in a statement: 'Shaun Monaghan... was detected and captured by the Cage-16 operation.

'It has been determined that the armed organisation, led by Shaun Monaghan, distributes large amounts of cocaine and heroin in England, commits illegal arms trade, armed wounding, armed threats and armed robbery, and that the organisation possesses a large number of long-barrelled and pistol-type weapons and ammunition.'

Minister Yerlikaya added: 'We are determined to cleanse our country from international and national organized crime organisations.

'We will catch them one by one and bring them to justice.'
A postie has refuted claims that they all wear shorts throughout the year as December brings snow and sub-zero temperatures to the UK.

The postwoman told MailOnline that the vast majority of postmen and postwomen are not committed to the brave outfit choice when it comes to the winter months.

It comes after a 'current postie' claimed that those in the trade steer clear of trousers 'because it gets hot doing the job'.

However, it turns out that 'I would say 90 per cent don't wear shorts all year' according to our postie.

The fashion choice has baffled many over the years with the perception being that shorts are as-good-as compulsory attire while doing the rounds.

A postie has refuted claims that those in the profession wear shorts all year round as December brings snow and sub-zero temperatures to the UK (stock photo)

They, in fact, suggested that '90 per cent don't wear shorts all year'

She added, after a shift in December there had been 'only a couple in shorts today' including 'one old boy wears long Johns and shorts on top.

'They say they get too hot!! Even in the winter, they say their legs get too hot,' she added in amazement.

Asked for an estimate she said: 'I would say 90 per cent don't wear shorts all year.'

This is contrary to discourse on a Reddit thread by Brits over the last couple of years.

One user took to the platform to ask: 'Postmen/women of the UK, why do you wear shorts all year round no matter the weather?'

On behalf of the nation's mail deliverers, someone responded: 'It really is just because it gets hot doing the job.

'One round I cover I wear trousers just because of the wind (made the mistake once and had windburn all up my legs) but it's that particular village happens to be the highest point of the town and is a massive wind tunnel.

'All other rounds I'm in shorts pretty much all year.'

They were joined by another 'ex-postie' in defending the clothing selection, saying: 'Walking around all day used to make me sweat my balls off.

'If it was an extreme day I might throw on waterproofs over my shorts, something I can easily slip on and off as the need arose.'

Another said: 'Skin is waterproof. Working all day is hot work.'

A different thread, posted six years ago, produced similar responses, with one Reddit user, who claimed their friend was a postal worker, saying he wore shorts because 'they dry quickly'.

They added: 'He says there is nothing worse than wet trousers all day in the winter.'

Back in 2013, MailOnline reported that Royal Mail had banned their workers from wearing shorts during the winter months to prevent them from getting frostbite.

More than 200 postmen across Cheltenham, Gloucestershire were told they must wear trousers as part of their uniform when working in freezing temperatures.

However, the decree was not taken lying down and many raised their voices opposing the ban.

One worker at the depot, who asked not to be named, said angry staff members had planned to contact the Communication Workers' Union about the ban.

He said: 'We're all disgusted about it. I find wearing shorts much more comfortable as I feel more restricted in trousers and my legs do get warm.

'There's an agreement between Royal Mail and the union which stipulates the rules about uniforms and there's nothing saying you can't wear shorts.

'I'm very annoyed - I can't stand wearing trousers when I'm on the go all the time.'
A female tourist has been allegedly raped by a waiter on board a cruise ship in Mallorca.

The waiter, a 25-year-old man from India according to Majorca Daily Bulletin, allegedly attacked the woman on board the cruise ship as it sailed towards Palma, the capital of Mallorca.

The suspect had allegedly met up with the foreign tourist and they had got on well so the pair arranged to meet in the woman's cabin on Friday.

But when the woman refused to have sex with him without a condom, the waiter allegedly raped her.

The alleged victim told the crew and the suspect was arrested by the Civil Guard as soon as the ship docked in the port of Palma.

A female tourist has been allegedly raped by a waiter on board a cruise ship in Mallorca (file image)

The alleged rape is said to have happened on Friday, although details have only just been released.

The name of the ship has not been revealed or any details about the victim so her age and nationality are not known.

The accused man was working as a waiter on the ship. It is alleged he met up with the alleged victim and 'they both hit it off'.

The Spanish press says the two of them arranged to meet up in the woman's cabin once he finished work.

The woman allegedly agreed at first to have sex but refused to do so without protection. The man is then said to have forced himself on her and raped her.

The victim reported the attack to the ship's crew who in turn notified the Civil Guard.

Officers were waiting at Palma as the ship arrived and the man was arrested on Friday.

On Sunday, he appeared before a court where a judge listed to the allegations and allowed the man bail but with charges.
Major sporting events such as the Cheltenham Festival should not have gone ahead in March 2020, Boris Johnson said today.

The ex-PM laid out the things he thought could have been done differently as he acknowledged that there were inevitably missteps at the start of the pandemic.

Appearing at the Covid inquiry, Mr Johnson also said he should not have shaken hands with 'everybody' at the start of that month.

He said the whole government had taken too long to wake up to the threat of the virus, suggesting scientists underestimated the issues because the last such crisis was 'outside living memory'.

He said even by early February the government was 'not yet believing' that the 'reasonable worst case' of the virus sweeping Brits would be realised.

Mr Johnson said he was 'really rattled' when he saw the impact on Italy, where hospitals were overwhelmed.

Boris Johnson laid out the things he thought could have been done differently as he acknowledged that there were inevitably missteps at the start of the pandemic

Inquiry counsel Hugo Keith pointed out that the Cheltenham Festival was allowed to go ahead starting on March 10, 2020 (pictured)

Mr Johnson said he responded with 'bewilderment' when shown a graph on March 12, 2020 suggesting the NHS could be overwhelmed

On March 7, 2020, Mr Johnson attended the England rugby match at Twickenham

He said he regretted boasting as late as March 2, 2020 that he had shaken hands with 'everybody' on a visit to the Royal Free Hospital in London.

'I should have been more precautionary... I wanted to be encouraging,' he said.

Mr Johnson noted he had urged people to restrict social contact on March 9, 2020. By March 12 he was warning of the serious problems that were yet to come.

But inquiry counsel Hugo Keith pointed out that the Cheltenham Festival was allowed to go ahead starting on March 10, and Liverpool hosted Atletico Madrid on March 11. On March 7 Mr Johnson attended the England rugby match at Twickenham.

Key points in Boris Johnson's Covid evidence Four people left the hearing after standing up as Mr Johnson's evidence began, holding up signs that read: 'The Dead can't hear your apologies.'

Mr Johnson said there were 'strong arguments against going to early' with the initial lockdown ;

He described Covid in January 2020 as being 'like a cloud on the horizon no bigger than a man's hand', saying no-one knew if it would turn into a 'typhoon';

Mr Johnson said at that point there was not enough 'credence' given to the 'mathematical implications' of forecasts, highlighting that previous threats such as SARS and BSE had not triggered the same chaos;

The ex-PM denied taking a 'holiday' over February half-term in 2020, saying he was 'working throughout the period' and had called both Xi Jinping of China and President Trump;

Mr Johnson admitted he had been wrong to boast in March 2020 about shaking hands with 'everybody' on a visit to the Royal Free Hospital in London.

He denied that foul-mouthed WhatsApps showed his team were deeply split and played down internal No10 pressure from Dominic Cummings to sack then-health secretary Matt Hancock, saying that was part of normal cut and thrust in Westminster;

Mr Johnson dismissed Covid era messages showing Cabinet Secretary Simon Case had swiped that he had 'never seen a group of people less suited' for running the country, saying WhatsApps tended to be 'pejorative and hyperbolical';

He appeared to blame the aggressive tone of private exchanges on 'male-dominated' meetings, saying there was better 'gender balance' in his office as London Mayor;

Mr Johnson defended no cracking down on borders in the early phases, saying that scientists did not believe it would work and evidence from other countries suggested they had been right;

When the virus started surging again in Autumn 2020 Mr Johnson said there was an 'appalling problem' over whether to lock down, saying they were concerned about doing the same thing 'over and over again';

The ex-PM denied that the Cabinet was shut out of decisions because it was 'seen by No10 as not being a serious place for serious discussion';

Mr Johnson said the Cabinet was generally 'more reluctant' to impose lockdown restrictions than he was;

About 5,000 WhatsApp messages on Mr Johnson's phone from January 30, 2020 to June 2020 were unavailable to the inquiry. The former premier said he 'didn't know the exact reason' but insisted there had been a technical failure and denied deleting anything. Advertisement

Mr Johnson said the advice against cancelling mass gatherings  that it would result in more people crowding into pubs to watch sport rather than being outside at a stadium  ' sounded reasonable at the time'.

But, he told the inquiry: 'With hindsight, as a symbol of government earnestness rather than just being guided by the science, we should perhaps have done that.'

Mr Johnson said he responded with 'bewilderment' when shown a graph on March 12, 2020 suggesting the NHS could be overwhelmed.

'I was bewildered, to be honest. I remember I remember looking at that graph and thinking in either case, we are facing an absolutely intolerable situation,' he said.

'Although I clocked it, I thought 'well, there must be a reason why we're not being told to to go urgently'.'

He added : 'I think at this point there is a certain amount of of incoherence in our thinking, because that graph makes it clear that things are going wrong.'

Mr Johnson said he was listening to advice about the 'timeliness' of interventions while 'looking with puzzlement' at the graph.

'What I should have done was, as soon as I saw that graph, said 'hang on, this is not coherent with what you're telling me about timeliness', because I do remember looking at it and thinking there was something amiss.'

Mr Johnson offered an apology as he kicked off an epic two-day grilling at the Covid inquiry this morning.

The ex-PM said he wanted to express how 'sorry I am for the pain and the loss and the suffering' of victims of the pandemic.

Mr Johnson acknowledged that 'in hindsight' mistakes had been made, and suggested the danger had been underestimated in the early stages because the last such crisis was 'outside living memory'.

He said even by early February the government was 'not yet believing' that the 'reasonable worst case' of the virus sweeping Brits would be realised.

Mr Johnson said he was 'really rattled' when he saw the impact on Italy, where hospitals were overwhelmed. He said he regretted boasting as late as March 2, 2020 that he had shaken hands with 'everybody' on a visit to a London hospital.

'We should have twigged much sooner... I should have twigged,' he said.

But he rejected the idea that his decisions had resulted in more excess deaths than other parts of the Western world.

'Can I just say how glad I am to be at this inquiry and how sorry I am for the pain and the loss and the suffering of the Covid victims,' Mr Johnson said.

In a tetchy exchange with inquiry counsel Hugo Keith KC, Mr Johnson disputed that Britain had failed to save as many lives as other nations. He pointed to the aging population as a reason why the country was hard hit.

Mr Johnson took responsibility for a list of decisions including the speed of the Government's response to the pandemic in 2020, lockdown timings, the explosion of the virus in the residential care sector, the Eat Out to Help Out scheme and the decision not to introduce a circuit-breaker later in 2020.

'I take personal responsibility for all the decisions that we made,' he replied.

'With hindsight, it may be easy to see things that we could have done differently or it may be possible to see things that we could have done differently.

'At the time, I felt and I know that everybody else felt that we were doing our best in very difficult circumstances to protect life and protect the NHS.'

Mr Johnson said that the only easy decision during the pandemic was to roll out the vaccines.

He told the inquiry: 'When it came to the balance of the need to protect the public and protect the NHS and the damage done by lockdowns, it was incredibly difficult.'

The former prime minister is facing a grilling by the inquiry's chief counsel, Hugo Keith KC (pictured today)

As he was shown Cabinet minutes from February 6, 2020, Mr Johnson said at that time the government was 'not yet believing' that the 'reasonable worst case' of the virus sweeping Brits would be realised

Mr Johnson said he was alarmed but confused by the scientific advice being presented in a report on March 2, 2020

Clashing with Mr Keith on how the UK's death toll compared to the rest of the Western World, Mr Johnson insisted: 'All I can say is I think many other countries suffered terrible losses from Covid.'

He said the evidence suggested that the UK was 'well down' the international table for deaths.

However, Mr Keith retorted that 'in Western Europe we were one of the worst off', with only Italy suffering more.

Quizzed on the early stages of Covid's emergence, Mr Johnson said that in January 2020 'everybody had they stopped to think about it could see the implications of the data, the implications of what was happening in the numbers, the percentage of fatalities in China'.

'But I don't think that they necessarily drew the right conclusions in that early phase. Which is no fault of theirs.'

He added: 'What happened is something that was completely outside people's living memory... I don't think people really computed the implications of that data.'

The ex-PM said he believed that was why the situation was 'not escalated to me' until February.

Mr Johnson said: 'I think that it would certainly be fair to say of me, the entire Whitehall establishment, scientific community included, our advisers included, that we underestimated the scale and the pace of the challenge. You can see that very clearly in those early days in March.

'We were all collectively underestimating how fast it had already spread in the UK. We put the first peak too late, we thought it would be May/June  that was totally wrong. I don't blame the scientists for that at all.

'That was the feeling and it just turned out to be wrong.'

Mr Johnson said: 'I certainly would accept that my mindset  like the mindset I think of the overwhelming majority of the ministers and officials in Whitehall in that period Jan to mid-Feb  was not as alarmed as we should have been.'

He was asked about a text his chief adviser Dominic Cummings sent to a 'Number 10 action group' on February 6 saying, 'We need a briefing on corona tomorrow. Chief scientists told me it's probably out of control now and will sweep the world. Will be major comms exercise'.

Mr Johnson replied by text: 'Yes please, need to talk about coronavirus comms at 9.'

Asked by Hugo Keith KC why the singular focus was on communications and not enacting a major response, Mr Johnson said: 'Because I think it's your point about infection fatality rate  the consequences.

'I think that when you read that a pandemic is about to sweep the world, you think you've heard it before. And that was the that was the problem.

The inquiry was shown an email from Mr Johnson's then-private secretary Imran Shafi, who wrote on February 24 2020: 'At some point soon, I'd like to start exposing the PM to the potential decisions he might have to take in short order on this  at the moment it's been fairly abstract with him I think'.

Asked what his general level of knowledge was at this point, Mr Johnson said: 'My memory now is that the scenes from Italy really rattled me.

'I remember seeing a note somewhere saying the fatality rate in Italy was 8 per cent because they had an elderly population, I thought 'well My God, we've got an elderly population. This is this is appalling'.

'And my instinct was 'this cannot possibly be be right, this number'.

'I look at all this stuff, in which we seem so oblivious, with horror now, we should have twigged, we should collectively have twigged much sooner I should have twigged.

'I think what Imran is trying to do here is to get the scientists to take me through the idea of the NPIs (non-pharmaceutical interventions) and what that would involve.'

Mr Johnson admitted he had been wrong to boast in March 2020 about shaking hands with 'everybody' on a visit to the Royal Free Hospital in London.

'I should have been more precautionary... I wanted to be encouraging,' he said.

Mr Johnson said that his administration had a lot of 'challenging and competing characters' but it got 'an awful lot done'.

Referring to expletive-laden WhatsApp exchanges, he told the inquiry that people were 'getting very frazzled because they were frustrated'.

'Covid kept coming at us in wave after wave and it was very, very hard to fight it,' he said.

'People were doing their level best. When people are critical of the guy at the top or they are critical of each other, that's a reflection of the difficulty of the circumstances.'

It was 'a reflection of the agony that the country was going through and that the government was going through'.

Mr Johnson said he would make a 'distinction between the type of language used and the decision making processes of the government and what we got done'.

'I would make a distinction between the type of language used and the decision-making processes of the government and what we got done,' he said.

'And I would submit that any powerful and effective government, and I think of the Thatcher government or the Blair government, has a lot of challenging and competing characters whose views about each other might not be fit to print, but who get an awful lot done  and that's what we did.'

In July 2020 Simon Case, the then-head official in Downing Street and now the Cabinet Secretary, said 'I've never seen a bunch of people less well-equipped to run a country', in a message to Sir Mark, who was cabinet secretary at the time.

But Mr Johnson said Whitehall mandarins would have said similar 'pretty fruity' things about the Thatcher administration if their 'unexpurgated' messages had been available in the same way as WhatsApp exchanges now.

He said WhatsApp messages tended to be 'ephemeral, it tends to the pejorative and the hyperbolical'.

'I think that the worst vice, in my view, would have been to have had an operation where everybody was so deferential and so reluctant to make waves that they never expressed their opinion, they never challenged and they never doubted.

'It was much more important to have a group of people who are willing to doubt themselves and to doubt each other. And I think that that was creatively useful rather than the reverse.'

Mr Johnson suggested his 'male-dominated' team was behind aggressive private exchanges, saying that when he was London Mayor his office was gender balanced and 'very harmonious'.

'I think that the gender balance of my team should have been better,' he said.

'I think sometimes during the pandemic, too many meetings were too male-dominated if I'm absolutely honest with you.'

Mr Johnson also played down Mr Cummings' private calls for Matt Hancock to be sacked. 'If you're prime minister, you are constantly being lobbied by somebody to sack somebody else. It's just what, I'm afraid, happens and it's part of life,' he said.

He acknowledged Mr Cummings had a 'low opinion' of Mr Hancock but 'I thought he was wrong'.

'I stuck by the health secretary. I thought the health secretary worked very hard.'

He said Mr Hancock 'may have had defects' but 'I thought that he was doing his best in very difficult circumstances and I thought he was a good communicator'.

Mr Johnson said 'there were some really excellent cabinet discussions about the trade-offs' involved in curbing Covid.

But he claimed that the cabinet as a whole was 'more reluctant' to impose non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) than he was.

'That wasn't true for every member of the cabinet but that would be a general comment,' he added.

Mr Johnson revealed that he only read the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) minutes 'once or twice' during the crisis.

'I think I did once or twice look at the  maybe more than that  looked at what Sage had actually said and Sage certainly produced a lot of documentation,' he said.

'But I think that the CSA (chief scientific adviser) and CMO (chief medical officer) did an outstanding job of leading Sage and distilling their views and conveying them to me.'

He added that 'in retrospect it may have been valuable to hear the Sage conversation unpasteurised itself, but I was more than content with the very clear summaries that I was getting from the CSA and the CMO.'

In written evidence, Mr Johnson said he had a duty to consider whether lockdowns 'would do (and did do) more harm than good'.

He added: 'We were between a rock and a hard place. We simply had no good choices, and it was necessary at all times to weigh up the harms that any choice would cause.'

He is also expected to repeat his denials that he ever said to 'let the bodies pile high' rather than order a third lockdown.

Downing Street at the time strongly denied he made the comment, insisting it was 'just another lie'.

The former PM was driven up to the venue in central London nearly three hours before his appearance is scheduled to begin at 10am.

As a result he missed protests by bereaved relatives, who held a press call before the hearing started.

Mr Johnson's former chief of staff Lord Lister told the inquiry last month he heard the former PM say the words 'let the bodies pile high' during a meeting in September 2020.

The former premier is also set to be quizzed about Sir Patrick Vallance's diary entries in which he wrote about his frustrations in dealing with the then-prime minister.

'(Mr Johnson is) obsessed with older people accepting their fate and letting the young get on with life and the economy going,' he said.

'Quite bonkers set of exchanges,' he wrote, referring to a WhatsApp group including Mr Johnson.

Tory MP Sir Michael Fabricant said the inquiry appeared at times to be more interested in 'salacious' WhatsApp messages between ministers and officials than in learning the lessons of the crisis.

And he appealed for Mr Johnson to be given a fair hearing: 'I have been a little worried that the inquiry has drifted into who swore what at whom rather than focusing on the lessons learned in case, God forbid, we have another pandemic.

'I just hope that Boris will be heard by people with an open mind rather than the prejudice which he has met in the past at other hearings.'

Another supporter of the former PM said the inquiry appeared to have started from a presumption that lockdowns were the right response to the pandemic and that the Government had been too slow.

'They only seem to be interested in asking whether we should have locked down sooner or for longer,' the source said.

'There has been very little discussion so far of the incredibly difficult trade-offs involved or of the constantly changing scientific advice, which was against locking down early on.

'If you really want to learn the lessons of the pandemic you  which is what Boris is interested in  you have to look at everything, not start with a pre-determined narrative.'

Mr Johnson is expected to acknowledge that the first lockdown of March 2020 was inevitable, given the lack of a vaccine or effective treatments against a deadly new virus.

But in his written testimony he said he had been 'very worried about the economic harm caused... and whether it would do more damage to the country than the virus itself'.

He is also expected to suggest that the inquiry should take more interest in the origins of the virus. Michael Gove was shut down at the hearings when he suggested that a 'significant body of judgment' now believed Covid-19 was man-made.

Mr Johnson will apologise for mistakes made by the Government during the pandemic.

But he will insist that ministers 'got the big calls right': achieving one of the fastest vaccine rollouts in the world, preventing the collapse of the NHS, developing innovative treatments like dexamethasone and emerging from the final lockdown quickly.

He will also reject claims that he 'switched off' during a half-term break in February 2020.
A hippy crack killer who murdered an 18-year-old 'peacemaker' to death after an argument broke out outside a McDonald's takeaway has been locked up for life.

The 16-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was told he would serve at least 15 years for murdering Ben Moncrieff - who was killed after intervening in a disagreement between teenagers in Bath city centre.

Bristol Crown Court heard the victim had been with friends in Bath on a night out before the stabbing in the early hours of Saturday, May 6.

Having left a club, they walked towards McDonald's and encountered a group of males, including the defendant, who were in possession of balloons and suspected nitrous oxide gas cannisters. That group had arrived in a car shortly beforehand.

CCTV then showed a verbal confrontation between the defendant and one of Ben's friends.

Ben is circled in blue while his killer, who is unnamed for legal reasons, is circled in red

Ben Moncrieff was stabbed once in the chest in Southgate Street at 3.30am on Saturday May 6, and despite the efforts of medics to save his life, he died at the scene

Jurors were told that Ben stepped in at that point to protect his friend, and a witness heard the defendant tell the victim to 'come around the corner'.

The defendant, who is from south London, is then seen in footage to take a step back and drop a gas cannister as Ben approaches him, before pulling out the weapon and stabbing the 18-year-old to death.

He fled the scene and dumped the knife in a bin nearby, which was recovered by officers. He was arrested a short time later and made no comment during police interviews.

A murder investigation was launched and hours of footage were trawled through by detectives.

One CCTV camera showed the defendant lift up his top before the stabbing and reveal to people he had a bladed weapon tucked into his waistband.

During his evidence in court, the teenager stated he had taken the knife off of a boy of a similar age early in the day to protect them.

However, the prosecution presented the jury with social media videos of the defendant playing with a matching knife that had been recorded earlier that same week. The teenager told the court it was a different knife that happened to look identical.

The defendant was found guilty of murder by a jury after a six-day trial. He had previously pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article in a public place.

Ben was trying to protect his friend who was getting into a verbal fight with the killer

The teenage killer is seen on CCTV with balloons filled with hippy crack, also known as laughing gas or nos

Judge Peter Blair KC said no sentence could be considered long enough. He stressed that the defendant had gone out with a knife, while Ben's hands were empty.

Ben's mother Sharon Hendry also read an emotional personal statement to the court.

She said: 'Ben filled our home with his friends, laughter, and made our home a happy place, full of life.'

Ms Hendry, who has also got a tattoo in his memory, recalled how Ben was a 'hard-working' son who cared deeply for his family and would cook a roast dinner for her and his girlfriend on Sundays.

She said: 'Ben left looking smart and happy with his girlfriend. It was a rare night out for Ben - he only wanted to go to the pub with his friends.

'I was called in the early hours and told that Ben had been stabbed.. I rushed to the scene and could only see Ben topless. His eyes were wide open and two paramedics taking turns to save Ben's life.

'When I looked into Ben's eyes, there was no colour. The beautiful blue had gone. Ben looked straight through me.

'I can still hear Ben's laughter. He was always smiling... He was truly one in a million.

'He is a huge loss to his many friends. I am so proud to be Ben Moncrieff's mum'.

Jeremy Wainwright KC, defending, said the teenager had been diagnosed with ADHD and had acted 'impulsively' and had made 'inappropriate decisions'.

'He was out and about with at the time with older people who had possibly a negative effect upon him,' he said.

Ben's mother had said his death had caused 'absolute devastation' to their family

After the verdict Ben's mother Sharon Hendry paid tribute to her son and said he was loved by everyone who knew him

'It is very difficult during the course of the trial for expressions of remorse to take place but those who have spoken to him to say there is some level of awareness.'

Imposing a life sentence, Judge Blair said the youth would serve a minimum term of 15 years' custody.

'There have been some lovely things said about Ben Moncrieff in the impact statements, which I have read before coming into court and the one read by his mother in court.

'The effect of Ben's wholly unwarranted and untimely death has been completely devastating to the community of people he was a part of in Bath and his memory will live on,' the judge said.

'As a consequence, no one is going to remember the child in the dock whose senseless act has robbed them of a life.'

The judge added: 'Ben Moncrieff intervened to calm it down but you wanted to show off and in an act of stupid childish bravado you didn't want to forget.

'I accept your contact with Ben Moncrieff was minimal, but you took a knife to the scene and it was your actions that led to a penetrating injury to his heart.'

Detective Inspector Mark Newbury, who led the investigation, said: 'At 18 years old, Ben had his whole life ahead of him, but it was snatched away.

'Tragically, Ben happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. He didn't know the defendant and was entirely blameless.

'He was bravely standing up for a friend when the defendant made a conscious decision to pull out a knife and attack Ben knowing it would gravely injure him at the very least.

'We believe the defendant sought to attempt to glorify knife crime by posing in social media videos in the days leading up to Ben's death and also showing off he was carrying one in the minutes before he killed Ben.'
The parents of a five-year-old girl who vanished in 2015 have been offered a glimmer of hope with the news that cold-case sniffer dogs have been deployed in the search.

Blonde haired, blue-eyed Inga Gehricke disappeared on May 2, 2015 during a family barbecue in a forest in Germany's Saxony-Anhalt state.

The case quickly drew comparisons with the 2007 disappearance of Madeline McCann, who vanished from her family's apartment in Praia da Luz, Portugal, at the age of three.

Despite extensive searches, media coverage and nationwide appeals, Inga  like Madeleine  has never been found, with the mystery still hanging over Germany today.

But Inga's parents Jens-Uwe and Victoria have been offered new hope this week, with investigators deploying sniffer dogs to the region she vanished from, with teams scouring nearby woodland.

The parents of a five-year-old Inga Gehricke who vanished in 2015 have been offered a glimmer of hope with the news that sniffer dogs have been deployed in the search

Blonde, blue-eyed Inga Gehricke (pictured) disappeared on May 2, 2015 during a family barbecue in a forest in Germany 's Saxony-Anhalt state

Axel Hehl, an ex-police officer who founded the Victim Recovery Dogs association, said he participated in the search with his cold case sniffer dogs that specialise in searching for corpses.

Mr Hehl said: 'The trained dogs' noses sniff out smells and the smallest particles that arise when a person decomposes.'

The dogs were taken to the Uchtspringe area last Saturday, near to Wilhelmshof, in the north of Germany, where Inga vanished.

Mr Hehl told local media: 'After our advance team in the summer, we were now on the search with four dogs.'

According to reports, the dogs stopped at one spot, seemingly sniffing something.

He added: 'I'm 85 per cent sure there's something there.'

The dogs cannot have sniffed animal remains, as they are trained to distinguish human from animal bones, according to local media.

The private detectives and lawyers who participated in the investigation, said: 'We will search tirelessly for the needle in the haystack.

'There is a lead, we just have to find it.'

Previously Tamara Zieschang, the Lower Saxon interior minister, had revealed a new squad of investigators has been formed to crack the Inga case.

Stung by criticism that previous efforts have not turned up a single new clue, she declared a new shake-up to 'reorganise the case management.'

The Christian Democratic Union minister said at the time: 'Police in Halle (Saale) will support Stendal police. This step is part of a reorganisation of the case management after years of investigations without any results.'

Local media reported on April 25 that the new investigators will be part of a team dedicated to 'crimes against life'.

She did not, however, say how many officers the unit will consist of.

The decision comes on the back of immense criticism of police over a string of blunders over the Inga case, which was initially dropped in 2017.

Berlin-based lawyer Steffen Tzschoppe, who represents Inga's family, told politicians in February that 1,900 pages of investigation files on the activities of a convicted paedophile had simply disappeared.

The case quickly drew comparisons with the 2007 disappearance of Madeline McCann, a British girl who vanished from her family's hotel room in Portugal at the age of three

And earlier this year, it emerged that police had found a sex doll in a convicted paedophile's abandoned house that they bizarrely revealed resembled Inga.

Investigators then checked on a new lead that linked her disappearance with convicted paedophile Martin H., 41, from Berlin.

Mr Tzschoppe told the Bild newspaper: 'He originally comes from near Stendal, not far from Wilhelmshof [district], where Inga disappeared.'

The lawyer claimed authorities have a 1,900-page file on the offender, who is already serving prison for previous sexual abuses of children.

The officers were reportedly puzzled when they rushed inside the offender's ruined house in the area of Scheuder, near the town of Dessau, Saxony Anhalt, and found bricked windows, soundproof doors and countless mattresses placed inside a basement dungeon.

The dungeon could only be reached through a hatch estimated at 40 by 40 centimetres (15.7 by 15.7 inches) in size, police reported.

They additionally discovered full bondage kits and sex toys.

Later on, during their search of his Berlin flat, they found silicone sex dolls, one of which reportedly bore a striking resemblance with then-five-year-old Inga.

Mr Tzschoppe said: 'In May 2015, shortly after Inga's disappearance, this offender used an excavator on his property.'

Martin H. had reportedly also dismantled his car on the property at the same time, claimed the lawyer.

Unwilling to reveal too many details, he added: 'The Stendal investigators dropped the trail because they believed the man's alibi.

'In my opinion, however, the alibi is very doubtful.'

Mr Tzschoppe pointed out the mistakes in the previous investigations and revealed that detectives hadn't analysed the paedophile's extensive file yet for further possible links.

He claimed that they reportedly stopped further examinations after only 11 days of investigations in 2019.

Also, in 2019, a high-ranking police officer allegedly admitted not having any experience with homicide cases after he had been appointed the head of a new special unit assembled to solve her disappearance.

And Christian Brueckner, a suspect in the McCann case, is reportedly also among the suspects to have been involved in the disappearance of Inga.

Christian Brueckner, a suspect in the McCann case, is reportedly among those suspected of being involved in the disappearance of Inga

At the time of her disappearance, 43-year-old Brueckner lived in a caravan at the site of an abandoned factory in Neuwegersleben around 68 miles from where Inga vanished.

Brueckner has been linked to a series of child abductions and murders in Portugal and Germany.

He is currently in jail in Kiel, in the German state of Schlweswig-Holstein, for drug dealing, and is appealing against a conviction for the 2005 rape of a woman near the Praia da Luz resort where McCann went missing.

Despite many years of police investigations and appeals to the public with a reward of EUR 25,000 (22,150) for any useful information leading to her whereabouts, Inga has never been found.
A fraudster who spent 200,000 of his dead wife's life insurance payout on luxury holidays and a hot tub with his new girlfriend has been jailed for four years.

Krzysztof Baczynski managed to gain hold of the six-figure sum, initially meant for his wife Anna Miszczuk's son, after she died from cancer in September 2017.

Less than a month after Mrs Miszczuk's death, Baczynski tricked her daughter, the trustee of her insurance policies, into signing the money over to him.

The money had been due to go to Mrs Miszczuk's younger son when he turned 25.

A court heard how Baczynski, 40, started using the money 'as if it was his own' and even spent the critical illness part of the payout while his wife was still alive.

Baczynski gave his step-children the impression he was taking care of the money, but he was actually spending it on holidays with his new partner.

He also invested in a shop and used some of the cash to prop up his failing business which was part of a cosmetics pyramid scheme.

Krzysztof Baczynski has been jailed for four years after he spent 200,000 of his dead wife's life insurance payout on luxury holidays and a hot tub with his new girlfriend

aczynski managed to gain hold of the six-figure sum, initially meant for his wife Anna Miszczuk's son, after she died from cancer in September 2017

Anna Miszczuk (pictured) died from cancer in September 2017, two months after being diagnosed

In the months after his wife's death, he and his new girlfriend jetted off to Tenerife, Moscow and Poland and even splashed out on a hot tub.

During this time, he brazenly took his step-children on holiday, pretending his flourishing business was paying for the trips.

A court heard he burned through his wife's entire 200,000 life insurance payout in just nine months.

He was caught after he took pictures of himself and his new partner 'living it up' at fancy restaurants and enjoying themselves in their hot tub.

Following a trial at Northampton Crown Court, Baczynski, of Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, was found guilty of one count of fraud. He was cleared of another count of fraud by false representation.

He was jailed for four years on Monday and told he would be subject to a Proceeds of Crime Act hearing in a bid to claw back some of money.

His Honour Judge David Herbert KC said: 'The money was released into your account with the knowledge of your step-daughter.

'Both her and her brother were unaware that you began to spend the money in the way that you did.

'I am quite satisfied that it was Anna's wish that her son should receive all of that money.

Less than a month after Mrs Miszczuk's death, Baczynski tricked her daughter, the trustee of her insurance policies, into signing the money over to him

'The evidence in the trial was that money would be shared with his sister.'

Judge Herbert told Baczynski he spent the money 'as if it were his own', adding: 'Within nine months you had spent it all.'

He said: 'The jury heard how you spent it on various holidays around Europe, a car, investing significant sums of money in your business.

'You were also loaning sums of money to others. It's now all gone. Anna's children were under the impression you were doing well in your business.

'You don't seem to be able to accept that was Anna's children's inheritance. It was her dying wish they received it to set them up for life.

'You agreed those wishes and failed to safeguard the money for her children and essentially squandered it on yourself.

'Your reckless attitude to the money is well summed-up by photographs of you living it up in restaurants and relaxing in hot-tubs with a girl with whom you were in a relationship at that time.

'You even gifted her some of the money. It's clear you have no idea how disgustingly you have behaved.

'You still persist in your claim you were going to repay the money. I am quite satisfied you won't and never had any intention of doing so.

'Now, when the money is long-gone you have still done nothing to redress the position.'

In the months after his wife's death, he and his new girlfriend jetted off to Tenerife, Moscow and Poland and even splashed out on a hot tub

In a victim impact statement, Baczynski's step-daughter said his crime had left the family devastated.

She said: 'Had me and my brother received the payments, our financial situation would have been very different.

'We are currently in debt and our mother's death had a great effect on us. We were not able to pay the rent last month.

'I feel like my brother and I lost years of having kind of relationship with our father because of his poisoning of our minds.

'When my mother was dying she felt like her children were financially secure.

'This incident has taken over my life. I've been unable to forget about it. It's been hard to put into words the gravity of the impact this has had.'

Catherine Rose, defending Baczynski, said: 'This was an opportunistic crime, once he had the money in his account.

'His only significant personal relationship is with his dog.'
A cougar was hit and killed by an SUV on a Minnesota highway Wednesday morning, just days after the predator was seen prowling through a Minneapolis neighborhood.

A 53-year-old driver fatally struck the wild cat on Interstate 394 at around 2am Wednesday. The driver then swerved, hitting a concrete barrier and causing serious front-end damage to the SUV.

'The cougar was killed upon impact,' the Minnesota State Patrol told FOX9. 'The DNR has possession of the cougar and the investigation is ongoing.'

Prior to the incident, a similarly-sized predator had been spotted wandering in the Lowry Hill neighborhood on Monday.

The city of Minneapolis had issued an alert on Tuesday urging residents to be on the lookout for the cougar, but it's not clear whether it is the same one killed by the vehicle.

A cougar was hit and killed by an SUV on a Minnesota highway Wednesday morning, just days after the predator was seen prowling through a Minneapolis neighborhood

Prior to the incident, a similarly-sized predator had been spotted wandering in the Lowry Hill neighborhood on Monday

The cougar continued to roam around the city, leaving footprints in the snow on Tuesday

The rare animal was observed walking past a property and two garages, captured by a home security camera at around 3.30am on Monday morning.

The cougar presence surprised a homeowner, who saw the alert on his smart phone at his Wisconsin cabin.

'I thought it was one of those morning dreams where you doze off and it seems really realistic,' Rick told Star Tribune and asked his last name not be used.

Another resident Kristi also captured the moment and said the animal 'has been making the rounds.'

'Apparently last night he made the rounds, over at the park and through different backyards. Up and down on sidewalks and driveways. It has been the talk of the neighborhood.'

The cougar continued to roam around the city, leaving footprints in the snow on Tuesday.

Minneapolis Animal Care and Control and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources later confirmed that a cougar was living near Logan Avenue in the Lowry Hill neighborhood.

'Parents of small children should pay increased attention when outside,' said Caroline Hairfield, the city's animal control director, in a statement.

'Pet owners with small dogs or cats should supervise their animals when they are outdoors.'

At around 2am on Wednesday, a 53-year-old driver fatally struck the wild cat on Interstate 394. The driver then swerved, hitting a concrete barrier and causing serious front-end damage to the SUV

The city of Minneapolis had issued an alert on Tuesday urging residents to be on the lookout for the cougar, but it's not clear whether it is the same one killed by the vehicle

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has possession of the cougar and the investigation is ongoing

There have been 77 sightings of cougar in the state since 2004 and only six recorded observations last year, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

'It's really rare,' DNR Large Carnivore Specialist Dan Stark told CBS. 'To have it in a densely human-populated area like that, you know, it's just not something you'd expect.'

Stark said the animal might have traveled from the Western Dakotas or Northwestern Nebraska, because there is no established population of the animal in Minnesota.

'It's interesting. You know, I'm as curious as a lot of people. I wanna know more about it, but we do have pretty limited information about it,' Stark said. 'And we only get these like snapshots.'

The DNR said anyone who sees the animal should report the encounter or sighting to a local wildlife area office or the DNR Information Center.
A physics teacher in Mississippi is free on bond despite a detective's testimony that he was plotting to elope with a female student.

James Hawkins, 38, was taken into custody last week on charges of sexual battery after a student at Ocean Springs High School came forward to allege that she had a relationship with the physics teacher that began in the spring of 2023.

The student alleged that the pair had sex in a variety of places, including in the home where he lived with his wife and young child, as well as in the parking lot of a local Walmart.

On Tuesday, Jackson County Sheriff's Captain Kristen Johnson testified that Hawkins admitted to the offenses. He told officers that the relationship began when the girl was having a hard time at school.

'The victim said that it began in the springtime of 2023 before the last school year ended. According to Mr. Hawkins, he admitted they had sex approximately one time a month, including at his house and in her car,' Johnson said.

Physics teacher James Hawkins, 38, began teaching at Ocean Springs High School in 2022, he was fired on the day of his arrest last week

On Tuesday, Hawkins made a second appearance in court where he was given a $150,000 bond and told avoid the student

Officials at Ocean Springs High School have said that they will work with officers in the case

In her testimony, Johnson dropped another bombshell, that Hawkins said that he was plotting to elope to Louisiana with the minor because the pair's relationship was developing faster than expected.

Prosecutors tried to use Johnson's testimony to keep Hawkins behind bars but the judge set a bond of $150,000 which the educator posted and was released. Hawkins is ordered not to have any contact with the student.

'If you happen to bump into her in public you need to leave that place immediately,' Judge Calvin Taylor told Hawkins.

The case is due to go before a grand jury. Investigators have also said that more charges could follow in the case. Police were initially contacted regarding the case by the victim's parents.

During his initial appearance in court, on December 1, Hawkins said that he was not a 'flight risk' and that he didn't know his actions were a 'felony-type crime.'

Hawkins had been arrested the day before, the same day that he was fired from his job as a result of the allegations.

According to his LinkedIn page, Hawkins has been teaching at Ocean Springs since July 2022.

The suspect studied physics at Mississippi State University, working as a professor's assistant physics lab graduate teaching assistant during his time at the school.
The wife of a trucker who vanished on a rural Iowa highway two weeks ago has said she is wracked with 'confusion and shock' over his disappearance.

David Schultz's truck was found on a stretch of highway in the state on November 21, with his trailer still filled with baby pigs he had been transporting.

Schultz's wallet and phone were found inside the cab of the vehicle, while his jacket was found on the side of the road.

Speaking to KCCI News, his wife Sarah said: 'I'm going through a process that initially was confusion and shock. It is still confusion and shock, but anger is starting to come to me.

'I'm trying to keep it together for the kids, and the fear is turning to anger. It's a lot of fear.'

David Schultz's truck was found on a stretch of highway in the state on November 21, with his trailer still filled with baby pigs he was transporting

Sarah Schultz, seen here, said she had been trying to keep things together for her and her two children, but was wracked with confusion and shock

Hundreds of people have volunteered to search for Schultz since the mysterious disappearance

She continued: 'I've been a member of this community my whole life. [There's been] an outpouring of love and prayers from churches all over who are all praying.'

Schultz also told the Sioux City Journal: 'This is not something David would do. He would never leave. His family is his life.

The father of two didn't arrive as expected with the load of pigs on November 21 in Sac City, Iowa, a small farming town about 90 miles northwest of Des Moines.

The truck was found later that afternoon, less than 10 miles northeast of his destination according to Jake Rowley.

Rowley is the regional team leader of United Cajun Navy, a nonprofit search-and-rescue organization which typically responds to natural disasters.

Schultz's truck wasn't running when it was found in the middle of the two-lane highway.

Sarah had previously said: 'I hadnt heard from him, which is not unusual, you know I dont know when hes loading and unloading.

'The guy he hauls for knocked at my door saying hey we cant find david have you heard from him. He said he didnt unload the hogs I said so hes loaded?

'And that alerts me right there cause he would never pull over to sleep load, he just wouldnt.'

The father of two, seen her with his twin sons, didnt arrive as expected with the load of pigs on November 21 in Sac City, Iowa

The truck was found later that afternoon, less than 10 miles northeast of his destination according to Jake Rowley

His truck was facing northbound, Rowley said, even though it should have been headed southbound to get to Sac City.

The disappearance has mystified surrounding communities in Iowa, prompting more than 250 individual volunteers to join in the search.

United Cajun Navy had volunteered to take over the search to allow law enforcement to focus on the investigation, Rowley said, but he hopes to see more from Iowa DCI and other investigators.

'Maybe they're doing a bunch on the computers, but theyre just not really active in the scenario,' Rowley said. 'An organization the size of DCI should be able to come in and make a splash, in my opinion.'

Since the disappearance, hundreds of people have volunteered to search for Schultz, but after scouring 100,000 acres near the highway, the effort was paused as searchers considered their next steps.

Leaders of the search were convinced they would have found Schultz if he had wandered off because of a medical emergency or some other problem.

Rowley also announced on social media that he was approaching businesses in the area to bring about a reward for information.

Iowa's Division of Criminal Investigation is assisting the Sac County Sheriffs Office and the Lake View Police Department in the case.
Israel's military today claimed it had found a major arms depot 'in the heart of a civilian population' in Gaza, and said it had seized or destroyed missiles, grenades, drones and other weapons.

'One of the largest weapons depots in the Gaza Strip was found near a clinic and school' in the north of the Palestinian territory, a statement said.

'The depot contained hundreds of RPG missiles and launchers of various types, dozens of anti-tank missiles, dozens of explosive devices, long-range missiles aimed at central Israel, dozens of grenades and UAVs,' it continued.

'Some were destroyed on-site and some were sent for further investigation.'

Images shared by the IDF showed Israeli soldiers carrying large rockets and packing up shells at the location. Drone equipment can also be seen in the images.

A statement shared with the images claimed: 'Near a clinic and a school: hundreds of missiles and launchers, long-range rockets, drones and explosive charges ready for use - one of the largest stockpiles of weapons found in the Gaza Strip.'

Images shared by the IDF claimed to show one of the largest stockpiles of ammo and weapons found in Gaza, retrieved from an area near a school and a hospital

Israeli forces were seen moving missiles after discovering what they say was a Hamas cache

In its statement on Wednesday, the army called the discovery of the weapons depot 'additional proof of Hamas' cynical use of the residents of the Gaza Strip as human shields'.

The International Criminal Court defines the use of human shields - a war crime - as 'utilising the presence of a civilian or other protected person to render certain points, areas or military forces immune from military operations'.

During past conflicts, Amnesty International has documented 'Palestinian armed groups [storing] munitions in and fired indiscriminate rockets from residential areas, which is in violation of international humanitarian law.'

Israel has likewise cited what it says as numerous examples of Hamas using human shields as a tactic in the last war in 2014.

Israel and the US have suspected for several years that Hamas has placed parts of an elaborate maze of tunnels under civilian infrastructure including Al Shifa hospital, the enclave's largest, in Gaza City.

The IDF has also cited this after causing civilian casualties as Palestinians flee to schools and hospitals afforded special protections under the rules of war.

Using a hospital as a military base is a war crime. Once used as a military facility, a hospital may lose its the protection afforded to it.

Hospitals thus cannot be attacked directly or prevented from performing their medical functions, according to the International Committee of the Red Cross.

There are some grey areas; the discovery of a small weapons cache or the staffing of armed guards may not be enough for a school or a hospital to lose its protections, depending on context.

'Medical establishments and units enjoy protection because of their function of providing care for the wounded and sick,' the Red Cross clarifies.

'When they are used to interfere directly or indirectly in military operations, and thereby cause harm to the enemy, the rationale for their specific protection is removed.

'This would be the case for example if a hospital is used as a base from which to launch an attack; as an observation post to transmit information of military value; as a weapons depot; as a center for liaison with fighting troops; or as a shelter for able-bodied combatants.'

Israel must also take precautions not to involve civilians in the fighting, for instance by giving adequate notice to evacuate targeted areas and making sure evacuation is possible.

Residents and civil defense teams conduct a search and rescue operation at the Nuseirat refugee camp in Deir al-Balah, Gaza on December 6, 2023

Smoke rises from the Jabalia Camp as residents and civil defense teams conduct search and rescue operations in the rubble of the buildings in Jabalia, Gaza on December 6, 2023

Palestinians flee the Israeli ground offensive in Khan Yunis, Gaza, Wednesday, December 6

Israel has turned its attention to the south of the enclave, having swept through Gaza City

The latest toll from the Hamas government's media office said 16,248 people have been killed in Gaza since the start of Israel's campaign, most of them women and children, and mostly due to the sustained bombardment of the Strip.

Last month, at least 50 people were killed in an Israeli airstrike on a school in Gaza, the Palestinian health ministry said.

Shocking video appeared to show the aftermath of the attack on al-Fakhura, a United Nations-run school which had been converted into a shelter for displaced Palestinians.

The health ministry had reported earlier in November that 15 people had also been killed in a strike at the same school.

UNRWA said four of its schools in the Gaza Strip housing people displaced by the war had been damaged by bombings.

At the start of November, Hamas claimed scores of Palestinians had been killed and injured after an Israeli missile strike hit an ambulance convoy.

Bodies were seen strewn across a street in between damaged ambulances. Desperate civilians were seen dragging limp bodies away, some of which left a trail of blood behind.

Israel admitted to the attack, saying the vehicle was being used by Hamas.

Amnesty has also referred to 'damning evidence of war crimes' as Israeli airstrikes 'wiped out entire families' in Gaza.

Agnes Callamard, Amnesty Internationals Secretary General, said as early as October 20: ' In their stated intent to use all means to destroy Hamas, Israeli forces have shown a shocking disregard for civilian lives.

'They have pulverized street after street of residential buildings killing civilians on a mass scale and destroying essential infrastructure, while new restrictions mean Gaza is fast running out of water, medicine, fuel and electricity.

'Testimonies from eyewitness and survivors highlighted, again and again, how Israeli attacks decimated Palestinian families, causing such destruction that surviving relatives have little but rubble to remember their loved ones by.'

Amnesty later found what it said was evidence of Israel's 'unlawful use of white phosphorous in southern Lebanon'.

'One attack on the town of Dhayra on 16 October must be investigated as a war crime because it was an indiscriminate attack that injured at least nine civilians and damaged civilian objects, and was therefore unlawful, said the organization, a statement read.

Israeli soldiers operate a drone near the Israeli-Gaza border, southern Israel, December 6

An Israeli military helicopter flies near the border, as seen from southern Israel, December 6

Having levelled much of Gaza City in the north, Israel has turned its attention to the south of the besieged enclave since the resumption of hostilities this week.

Israeli forces battled with Hamas across Gaza today in intense fighting that has prevented the distribution of vital aid in much of the territory and brought some of the devastation and mass displacement seen in the north to the south.

As the focus of the ground offensive moves down the Gaza Strip and into the second-largest city of Khan Younis, it is further shrinking the area where Palestinians can seek safety and pushing large numbers of people, many of whom have been forced to flee multiple times, toward the sealed-off border with Egypt.

Makeshift shelters and family homes set up in and around the city are already overflowing and many are sleeping in the streets.

On the other side of the southern Rafah crossing, thousands of Egyptian troops have deployed to prevent any mass influx of refugees, which Egypt says would undermine its decades-old peace treaty with Israel.

Israel meanwhile is now said to have completed installing at least five pumps just north of the Al-Shati refugee camp in an audacious plan to force thousands of cubic metres of water per hour through Hamas' elaborate tunnel network underground.

Their aim would be to drive Hamas out of the tunnels and render their suspected bases inoperable by flooding the system with seawater from the Mediterranean Sea.

Some have already raised concerns about the plan; in a meeting with government officials on Tuesday, one former hostage released during the seven-day ceasefire at the end of November said her husband would be at risk.

'He was taken to the tunnels, and you talk about washing the tunnels with seawater. You prioritize politics over the hostages!' she was reported as saying.

Displaced Palestinians, who fled their houses due to Israeli strike, shelter in a camp in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, December 6, 2023

A general view of destroyed buildings following Israeli attacks on Jabalia Camp in Gaza on December 6, 2023

Smoke billows on December 6 as Israel continues to bombard the southern Gaza Strip

Smoke rises over Gaza, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, as seen from southern Israel, December 6, 2023

Former hostages, released after nearly two months in Gaza, have returned with harrowing stories of being deprived of food, water and medicine while being held underground, putting urgent pressure on Israel to go back to the negotiating table.

'I was dehydrated for 51 days, they didn't give us water, they are inhumane,' one unnamed woman said.

Others allege instances of sexual abuse aimed at both male and female hostages held in Hamas' captivity.

Some have given wildly conflicting reports, saying Hamas generally took care of them and the food quality only deteriorated amid shortages caused by the siege.


Coronation Street star Nicola Thorp has spoken out about her stalker for the first time since he was sentenced - revealing revolting pictures he sent her helped catch him.

Ms Thorp, 34, faced schizophrenic Ravinderjit Dhillon, 30, at Snaresbrook Crown Court yesterday in east London with fiance Nikesh Patel by her side.

Dillon was sentenced to 30 months in jail and speaking on Talk Today this morning, where she now hosts for TalkTV, Ms Thorp said: 'I was stalked for two years from 2018 to 2020 by an anonymous man online, although I don't know if it was ever in real life as well. He made horrendous rape threats, death threats and threats to my family.

'He sent photos of his genitalia, and I found out yesterday one of the reasons why they caught him is that they matched one of the photos of his genitals with what was going on in his bedroom when they actually raided his property to get his devices, because he initially denied that it was him.

'He said he'd lost his phone and they matched up the background of the photograph to his bedroom. So yeah, he's been jailed.'

Pregnant actress Nicola Thorp, 34, arrived in court this afternoon alongside her fiance Nikesh Patel

On what her message from the sentencing yesterday would be, she said: 'The message from me would be that I think it's really, really important, because I took this to the police after two long years of this harassment and said, 'I want this to stop'.

'They arrested him and it was a heck of a long time until I was told his identity. And that meant that this man became everybody that I met.

'They wouldn't even tell me if it was somebody that I knew, someone I worked with. They wouldn't tell me if it was an ex-partner.

'So I'm campaigning and I've been doing some work with Emily Thornberry on this for some reform, basically, in the way that the police deal with victims of stalkers, because I believe that victims should be given some power.'

She added: 'I discovered in court yesterday that he'd been suffering with mental health issues for some time. And actually, a big part of what I wanted in terms of justice was not just a jail sentence, he's also got a lifetime restraining order, which was great. He apologised via his barrister, and also the courts are going to ensure that he gets mental health support, and I don't say that because I'm a soft leftie, I say it because I don't want somebody being released back into society without mental health support because he'd suffered from various things that happened in his past, which doesn't excuse it.'

Blackpool-born Ms Thorp (pictured) handed an 89-page document to the Met Police detailing the harassment she suffered at Dhillon's hands

On going to court yesterday to come face-to-face her stalker, even though her attendance was not mandatory, she added: '[It was] really important to me, largely because I felt a bit let down by the police service, to be honest. I think there can be a lack of communication sometimes between victims and certain police forces. I wanted to look him in the eye because after two years I looked him in the eye a couple of times.'

Blackpool-born Ms Thorp handed an 89-page document to the Met Police detailing the harassment she suffered at Dhillon's hands.

She said: 'I've spent most of my adult life fighting for the rights of women and doing so in the public eye has come with some personal cost.

'I became the target of the exact behaviour I was standing up against.

'Dhillon became an army of men all wanting to do me harm, threats to rape me, choke me.'

Ms Thorp earlier told the court Dhillon sent her a message on Instagram that said 'a woman's place was on her knees'.

'He told me I was to be put in a headlock and forced into sexual acts and wanted to make my parents watch,' she said.

'He sent me messages saying, "I'm going to be with you forever"; he said, "I'm your grim reaper" and in one message alone he said 28 times he "wasn't going to leave me".
A woman's cancer was spotted during a holiday massage in Turkey - after previously being misdiagnosed by UK doctors.

Claire O'Shea, 41, had previously been told by doctors the tummy pain she was experiencing was due to irritable bowel syndrome.

But during the treatment at a baths in Istanbul the masseuse spotted the mystery lump and questioned what it was.

Ms O'Shea, a charity worker, said: 'I knew it wasn't IBS. When I was in there the woman stopped the massage and in broken English said: "Lady, baby?" thinking I was pregnant.

Claire O'Shea, a charity worker from Cardiff, pictured, was told by her GP that her incurable cancer was irritable bowel syndrome

Ms O'Shea shaved her head as a result of chemo. She was in Turkey on holiday when her masseuse noticed a lump in her stomach

'I went white. I knew I wasn't pregnant but it all became very apparent to me then that the lump was, actually, probably in my reproductive organs.

'I remember talking to my friends like: "My God. How is a Turkish masseuse doing a better job of telling me what's wrong with me than my GP has for months?"

Despite having a scan when she returned home doctors continued to insist she was suffering from benign fibroids and showed no urgency towards her.

It was only when eight months later medics removed a lump the size of a grapefruit that she was diagnosed with an incurable gynaecological cancer.

Ms O'Shea, of Cardiff, spoke out after a government health committee found women's cancer concerns are 'dismissed, downplayed and unheard'.

She said: 'There has to be something dramatic to change women's experiences.

'The prognosis is generally only 12 to 18 months because it's so rare, there's not a lot of research into it and women generally get diagnosed later.'

Ms O'Shea's cancer spread to her liver, lungs and hip bone and she has undergone a hysterectomy and six cycles of chemotherapy

Eight months after returning from Turkey, surgeons removed a grapefruit-sized lump

Ms O'Shea's cancer spread to her liver, lungs and hip bone and she has undergone a hysterectomy and six cycles of chemotherapy.

She said: 'I'm 12 months clear and feeling quite healthy at the moment, so I've outlived my prognosis already, which is promising in a way,' she said.

'You can't live in anger if you don't know how much longer you have to live, so I'm trying to channel it into raising awareness.

'In Wales we have a woman who's a health minister, we have a government who said they want to be the first feminist government and we talk about wanting an equal Wales, but they're not translating into better care for women.

'At the moment it feels like there's a lot of rhetoric and not much that actually changes. There has to be something dramatic to change women's experiences.'

A Welsh government spokesperson said: 'It is vital women's concerns are heard and taken seriously when they go to the NHS for help. The experiences of the women in the report will help us to improve services.

'Cancer is one of the six planning priorities for the NHS and we are committed to improving cancer outcomes. We have introduced targeted support for gynaecological cancer services and are providing GPs with supportive tools for referral of suspected cancer.

'We welcome this report from the committee and will respond to the recommendations in due course.'
Boris Johnson choked up today as he spoke of the 'tragic' toll of Covid during his grilling at the official inquiry.

The ex-PM had to take a moment to compose himself as he said he had to be 'realistic' about what happened in 2020 - a year that also saw him hospitalised with the virus.

Earlier, Mr Johnson stressed how 'sorry I am for the pain and the loss and the suffering' of victims of the pandemic.

He acknowledged that 'in hindsight' mistakes had been made, and suggested the danger had been underestimated by scientists in the early stages because the last such crisis was 'outside living memory'.

He said even by early February the government was 'not yet believing' that the 'reasonable worst case' of the virus sweeping Brits would be realised.

Mr Johnson said he was 'really rattled' when he saw the impact on Italy, where hospitals were overwhelmed. And he said he was left with no choice about lockdown when it became clear the peak would happen months earlier than experts had been suggesting, swamping the NHS.

'We should have twigged much sooner... I should have twigged,' he said.

But he rejected the idea that his decisions had resulted in more excess deaths than other parts of the Western world.

And he suggested it is unlikely that earlier restrictions could have avoided the need for a lockdown altogether.

Boris Johnson had to take a moment to gather himself as he said he had to be 'realistic' about what happened in 2020 - a year that also saw him hospitalised with the virus

Messages shown at the Covid inquiry highlight the mounting alarm in government at the spread of the virus

Mr Johnson said he responded with 'bewilderment' when shown a graph on March 12, 2020 suggesting the NHS could be overwhelmed

Mr Johnson had to pause and take a deep breath as he was asked about the fraught decisions about whether to lock down early, and concerns that would only mean the virus coming back with renewed force later.

He said: 'We have to be realistic about 2020, the whole year - that whole tragic tragic year...

'We did lock down. Then it bounced back after we'd unlocked.'

'Can I just say how glad I am to be at this inquiry and how sorry I am for the pain and the loss and the suffering of the Covid victims,' Mr Johnson said.

Mr Johnson took responsibility for a list of decisions including the speed of the Government's response to the pandemic in 2020, lockdown timings, the explosion of the virus in the residential care sector, the Eat Out to Help Out scheme and the decision not to introduce a circuit-breaker later in 2020.

'I take personal responsibility for all the decisions that we made,' he replied.

'With hindsight, it may be easy to see things that we could have done differently or it may be possible to see things that we could have done differently.

'At the time, I felt and I know that everybody else felt that we were doing our best in very difficult circumstances to protect life and protect the NHS.'

Mr Johnson said that the only easy decision during the pandemic was to roll out the vaccines.

He told the inquiry: 'When it came to the balance of the need to protect the public and protect the NHS and the damage done by lockdowns, it was incredibly difficult.'

The former prime minister is facing a grilling by the inquiry's chief counsel, Hugo Keith KC (pictured today)

As he was shown Cabinet minutes from February 6, 2020, Mr Johnson said at that time the government was 'not yet believing' that the 'reasonable worst case' of the virus sweeping Brits would be realised

Mr Johnson said he was alarmed but confused by the scientific advice being presented in a report on March 2, 2020

Clashing with Mr Keith on how the UK's death toll compared to the rest of the Western World, Mr Johnson insisted: 'All I can say is I think many other countries suffered terrible losses from Covid.'

He said the evidence suggested that the UK was 'well down' the international table for deaths.

However, Mr Keith retorted that 'in Western Europe we were one of the worst off', with only Italy suffering more.

Quizzed on the early stages of Covid's emergence, Mr Johnson said that in January 2020 'everybody had they stopped to think about it could see the implications of the data, the implications of what was happening in the numbers, the percentage of fatalities in China'.

'But I don't think that they necessarily drew the right conclusions in that early phase. Which is no fault of theirs.'

He added: 'What happened is something that was completely outside people's living memory... I don't think people really computed the implications of that data.'

The ex-PM said he believed that was why the situation was 'not escalated to me' until February.

Key points in Boris Johnson's Covid evidence Four people left the hearing after standing up as Mr Johnson's evidence began, holding up signs that read: 'The Dead can't hear your apologies.'

Mr Johnson said there were 'strong arguments against going too early' with the initial lockdown ;

He described Covid in January 2020 as being 'like a cloud on the horizon no bigger than a man's hand', saying no-one knew if it would turn into a 'typhoon';

Mr Johnson said at that point there was not enough 'credence' given to the 'mathematical implications' of forecasts, highlighting that previous threats such as SARS and BSE had not triggered the same chaos;

The ex-PM denied taking a 'holiday' over February half-term in 2020, saying he was 'working throughout the period' and had called both Xi Jinping of China and President Trump;

Mr Johnson admitted he had been wrong to boast in March 2020 about shaking hands with 'everybody' on a visit to the Royal Free Hospital in London.

He also accepted that the Cheltenham Festival should not have been allowed to go ahead in March 2020;

The former premier said he was not convinced that lockdown could have been avoided altogether by earlier action, but suggested the curbs might have happened earlier if the data had been better understood;

Mr Johnson apologised for branding Long Covid 'b***ocks' and comparing it to Gulf War Syndrome;

He denied that foul-mouthed WhatsApps showed his team were deeply split and played down internal No10 pressure from Dominic Cummings to sack then-health secretary Matt Hancock, saying that was part of normal cut and thrust in Westminster;

Mr Johnson dismissed Covid era messages showing Cabinet Secretary Simon Case had swiped that he had 'never seen a group of people less suited' for running the country, saying WhatsApps tended to be 'pejorative and hyperbolical';

He appeared to blame the aggressive tone of private exchanges on 'male-dominated' meetings, saying there was better 'gender balance' in his office as London Mayor;

But Mr Johnson revealed he had personally apologised to former mandarin Helen MacNamara for not calling out her treatment in 'macho' culture;

Mr Johnson defended not cracking down on borders in the early phases, saying that scientists did not believe it would work and evidence from other countries suggested they had been right;

When the virus started surging again in Autumn 2020 Mr Johnson said there was an 'appalling problem' over whether to lock down, saying they were concerned about doing the same thing 'over and over again';

The ex-PM denied that the Cabinet was shut out of decisions because it was 'seen by No10 as not being a serious place for serious discussion';

Mr Johnson said the Cabinet was generally 'more reluctant' to impose lockdown restrictions than he was;

About 5,000 WhatsApp messages on Mr Johnson's phone from January 30, 2020 to June 2020 were unavailable to the inquiry. The former premier said he 'didn't know the exact reason' but insisted there had been a technical failure and denied deleting anything. Advertisement

Mr Johnson said: 'I think that it would certainly be fair to say of me, the entire Whitehall establishment, scientific community included, our advisers included, that we underestimated the scale and the pace of the challenge. You can see that very clearly in those early days in March.

'We were all collectively underestimating how fast it had already spread in the UK. We put the first peak too late, we thought it would be May/June  that was totally wrong. I don't blame the scientists for that at all.

'That was the feeling and it just turned out to be wrong.'

Mr Johnson said: 'I certainly would accept that my mindset  like the mindset I think of the overwhelming majority of the ministers and officials in Whitehall in that period Jan to mid-Feb  was not as alarmed as we should have been.'

He was asked about a text his chief adviser Dominic Cummings sent to a 'Number 10 action group' on February 6 saying, 'We need a briefing on corona tomorrow. Chief scientists told me it's probably out of control now and will sweep the world. Will be major comms exercise'.

Mr Johnson replied by text: 'Yes please, need to talk about coronavirus comms at 9.'

Asked by Hugo Keith KC why the singular focus was on communications and not enacting a major response, Mr Johnson said: 'Because I think it's your point about infection fatality rate  the consequences.

'I think that when you read that a pandemic is about to sweep the world, you think you've heard it before. And that was the that was the problem.

The inquiry was shown an email from Mr Johnson's then-private secretary Imran Shafi, who wrote on February 24 2020: 'At some point soon, I'd like to start exposing the PM to the potential decisions he might have to take in short order on this  at the moment it's been fairly abstract with him I think'.

Asked what his general level of knowledge was at this point, Mr Johnson said: 'My memory now is that the scenes from Italy really rattled me.

'I remember seeing a note somewhere saying the fatality rate in Italy was 8 per cent because they had an elderly population, I thought 'well My God, we've got an elderly population. This is this is appalling'.

'And my instinct was 'this cannot possibly be be right, this number'.

'I look at all this stuff, in which we seem so oblivious, with horror now, we should have twigged, we should collectively have twigged much sooner I should have twigged.

'I think what Imran is trying to do here is to get the scientists to take me through the idea of the NPIs (non-pharmaceutical interventions) and what that would involve.'

Mr Johnson admitted he had been wrong to boast in March 2020 about shaking hands with 'everybody' on a visit to the Royal Free Hospital in London.

'I should have been more precautionary... I wanted to be encouraging,' he said.

However, Mr Johnson said he was not convinced that lockdown could have been avoided altogether by earlier action.

'That I have to say that I doubt but I don't know,' he said.

'I think that the virus is extremely contagious, I think that it was going to describe a pretty nasty curve almost whatever we did. I'm not certain that we would have been able to avoid the extreme action that we eventually took by acting a few days earlier, but I would defer on that to scientists.'

Mr Johnson did agree that lockdown might have been earlier if there had been a better understanding of data.

Mr Keith asked: 'Could it not have been imposed earlier, had the Government been rather more alert in middle to late February and in early March, had it not been blindsided to some extent by the debates about herd immunity, not going too early, behavioural fatigue and so on, and understood properly the data in its possession, thereby allowing it to impose lockdown in the weeks of March 9 or 16?'

Mr Johnson replied: 'I think that all your conditionals I would delete except the one about the data. I think that that was the key thing that the Sage lacked and it was the sudden appreciation that we were much further along the curve than they thought.

'We weren't four weeks behind France of Italy, we were a couple of weeks, maybe less, and they were clearly wrong in their initial estimation, we were clearly wrong in our estimation of where the peak was going to be. So the penny dropped, we realised that on the evening of the 13th into 14th and then we acted. But I think once we decided to act it was pretty fast from flash to bang.'

Mr Johnson said that his administration had a lot of 'challenging and competing characters' but it got 'an awful lot done'.

Referring to expletive-laden WhatsApp exchanges, he told the inquiry that people were 'getting very frazzled because they were frustrated'.

'Covid kept coming at us in wave after wave and it was very, very hard to fight it,' he said.

'People were doing their level best. When people are critical of the guy at the top or they are critical of each other, that's a reflection of the difficulty of the circumstances.'

It was 'a reflection of the agony that the country was going through and that the government was going through'.

Mr Johnson said he would make a 'distinction between the type of language used and the decision making processes of the government and what we got done'.

'I would make a distinction between the type of language used and the decision-making processes of the government and what we got done,' he said.

'And I would submit that any powerful and effective government, and I think of the Thatcher government or the Blair government, has a lot of challenging and competing characters whose views about each other might not be fit to print, but who get an awful lot done  and that's what we did.'

In July 2020 Simon Case, the then-head official in Downing Street and now the Cabinet Secretary, said 'I've never seen a bunch of people less well-equipped to run a country', in a message to Sir Mark, who was cabinet secretary at the time.

But Mr Johnson said Whitehall mandarins would have said similar 'pretty fruity' things about the Thatcher administration if their 'unexpurgated' messages had been available in the same way as WhatsApp exchanges now.

He said WhatsApp messages tended to be 'ephemeral, it tends to the pejorative and the hyperbolical'.

'I think that the worst vice, in my view, would have been to have had an operation where everybody was so deferential and so reluctant to make waves that they never expressed their opinion, they never challenged and they never doubted.

'It was much more important to have a group of people who are willing to doubt themselves and to doubt each other. And I think that that was creatively useful rather than the reverse.'

Mr Johnson suggested his 'male-dominated' team was behind aggressive private exchanges, saying that when he was London Mayor his office was gender balanced and 'very harmonious'.

'I think that the gender balance of my team should have been better,' he said.

'I think sometimes during the pandemic, too many meetings were too male-dominated if I'm absolutely honest with you.'

Mr Johnson also played down Mr Cummings' private calls for Matt Hancock to be sacked. 'If you're prime minister, you are constantly being lobbied by somebody to sack somebody else. It's just what, I'm afraid, happens and it's part of life,' he said.

He acknowledged Mr Cummings had a 'low opinion' of Mr Hancock but 'I thought he was wrong'.

'I stuck by the health secretary. I thought the health secretary worked very hard.'

He said Mr Hancock 'may have had defects' but 'I thought that he was doing his best in very difficult circumstances and I thought he was a good communicator'.

Mr Johnson said 'there were some really excellent cabinet discussions about the trade-offs' involved in curbing Covid.

But he claimed that the cabinet as a whole was 'more reluctant' to impose non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) than he was.

'That wasn't true for every member of the cabinet but that would be a general comment,' he added.

Mr Johnson revealed that he only read the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) minutes 'once or twice' during the crisis.

'I think I did once or twice look at the  maybe more than that  looked at what Sage had actually said and Sage certainly produced a lot of documentation,' he said.

Baroness Heather Hallett opened the latest dramatic evidence session of the inquiry today

'But I think that the CSA (chief scientific adviser) and CMO (chief medical officer) did an outstanding job of leading Sage and distilling their views and conveying them to me.'

He added that 'in retrospect it may have been valuable to hear the Sage conversation unpasteurised itself, but I was more than content with the very clear summaries that I was getting from the CSA and the CMO.'

In written evidence, Mr Johnson said he had a duty to consider whether lockdowns 'would do (and did do) more harm than good'.

He added: 'We were between a rock and a hard place. We simply had no good choices, and it was necessary at all times to weigh up the harms that any choice would cause.'

He is also expected to repeat his denials that he ever said to 'let the bodies pile high' rather than order a third lockdown.

Downing Street at the time strongly denied he made the comment, insisting it was 'just another lie'.

The former PM was driven up to the venue in central London nearly three hours before his appearance is scheduled to begin at 10am.

As a result he missed protests by bereaved relatives, who held a press call before the hearing started.

Mr Johnson's former chief of staff Lord Lister told the inquiry last month he heard the former PM say the words 'let the bodies pile high' during a meeting in September 2020.

The former premier is also set to be quizzed about Sir Patrick Vallance's diary entries in which he wrote about his frustrations in dealing with the then-prime minister.

'(Mr Johnson is) obsessed with older people accepting their fate and letting the young get on with life and the economy going,' he said.

'Quite bonkers set of exchanges,' he wrote, referring to a WhatsApp group including Mr Johnson.

Tory MP Sir Michael Fabricant said the inquiry appeared at times to be more interested in 'salacious' WhatsApp messages between ministers and officials than in learning the lessons of the crisis.

And he appealed for Mr Johnson to be given a fair hearing: 'I have been a little worried that the inquiry has drifted into who swore what at whom rather than focusing on the lessons learned in case, God forbid, we have another pandemic.

'I just hope that Boris will be heard by people with an open mind rather than the prejudice which he has met in the past at other hearings.'

Another supporter of the former PM said the inquiry appeared to have started from a presumption that lockdowns were the right response to the pandemic and that the Government had been too slow.

'They only seem to be interested in asking whether we should have locked down sooner or for longer,' the source said.

'There has been very little discussion so far of the incredibly difficult trade-offs involved or of the constantly changing scientific advice, which was against locking down early on.

'If you really want to learn the lessons of the pandemic you  which is what Boris is interested in  you have to look at everything, not start with a pre-determined narrative.'

Mr Johnson is expected to acknowledge that the first lockdown of March 2020 was inevitable, given the lack of a vaccine or effective treatments against a deadly new virus.

But in his written testimony he said he had been 'very worried about the economic harm caused... and whether it would do more damage to the country than the virus itself'.

He is also expected to suggest that the inquiry should take more interest in the origins of the virus. Michael Gove was shut down at the hearings when he suggested that a 'significant body of judgment' now believed Covid-19 was man-made.

Mr Johnson will apologise for mistakes made by the Government during the pandemic.

But he will insist that ministers 'got the big calls right': achieving one of the fastest vaccine rollouts in the world, preventing the collapse of the NHS, developing innovative treatments like dexamethasone and emerging from the final lockdown quickly.

He will also reject claims that he 'switched off' during a half-term break in February 2020.

Boris Johnson was driven up to the venue in central London nearly three hours before his appearance is scheduled to begin at 10am
Kyiv said it orchestrated the assassination of a pro-Kremlin Ukrainian politician today, after the body of an ex-lawmaker who had defected to Russia was found outside Moscow with a gunshot wound to the head.

A source in Ukraine's defence sector said that its SBU security services had orchestrated the assassination of Illia Kyva, a former Ukrainian lawmaker who was kicked out of parliament and defected to Russia weeks after Moscow launched its military offensive last year.

Kyva's body was discovered in the Moscow suburbs today. His death came 18 months after he urged Putin to use weapons of mass destruction against Ukraine amid growing fears that Russia could resort to using nuclear weapons.

'An unknown person fired shots at the victim from an unidentified weapon. The man died on the spot from his injuries,' Russia's Investigative Committee said in a statement. It said it had opened a case into his death.

Speaking on national TV, Ukraine's military intelligence spokesperson Andriy Yusov said: 'We can confirm that Kyva is done. Such a fate will befall other traitors of Ukraine, as well as the henchmen of the Putin regime.'

The body of Ilya Kyva, 46, was discovered in the Moscow suburbs today

Kyva, an opposition politician banned from parliament for supporting Putin's invasion, called on Russia to use weapons of mass destruction in April last year (above)

Yusov called Kyva 'one of the biggest scumbags, traitors and collaborators' and said his death was 'justice'.

Russian law enforcement has launched a probe into his death at a country club in Odintsovo, near Moscow, where he lived in exile under Putin's protection.

In April last year, Kyva, 46, urged Putin to use weapons of mass destruction against his own country amid mounting concern that Moscow could resort to using nukes.

Kyva posted the appeal to his Telegram channel - just a day after Zelensky warned that Putin could go nuclear.

Underneath the image of a nuclear explosion, Kyva wrote: 'REMEMBER!!! - THEY ARE AFRAID AND RESPECT ONLY POWER!!!

'Zelensky, his entourage and Western curators, are most afraid of a [Russian] pre-emptive strike [with] weapons of mass destruction.

'This is what can put an end to today's confrontation, not only with the Ukrainian authorities, but with the entire West which actively and already openly takes part today in the military conflict in Ukraine...

'If anyone thinks that this is not according to the rules, remember: the West wrote these rules in its own interests and only in order to more effectively destroy you.'

He spoke out after President Zelensky sat down for an interview with CNN in which he warned that the West needs to prepare for the possibility that Putin will resort to using nuclear or chemical weapons against his country.

Western officials feared the Russian strongman could resort to such desperate measures in a last-ditch effort to turn the tide of war in his favour after a series of embarrassing battlefield defeats.

Speaking on national TV, Ukraine's military intelligence spokesperson Andriy Yusov called Kyva 'one of the biggest scumbags, traitors and collaborators' and said his death was 'justice'

In one virulently anti-Zelensky diatribe on Russian state TV, Kyva said: 'The obliteration of the Slavic world that started in 1941 was merely put on hold in 1945'

'They could do it,' Zelensky said. 'For them the life of the people [means] nothing. That's why.

'We should not be afraid... but be ready. That is a question not only for Ukraine but for all the world, I think.'

Kyva's death also came hours after he claimed in his final social media post that Zelensky would be forced to flee to Britain.

The Kremlin propagandist, who had appeared on state TV shows, had alleged Zelensky was an MI6 stooge and cocaine addict.

Five hours before his death, he posted: 'Zelensky's only option is to flee to England, but even from there he is extradited when it is favourable to the Crown or dies when it is necessary for the Kremlin.'

He saw the US failure to back Zelensky's plea for more cash and weapons this week as a victory for Putin and 'the countdown to Zelensky's removal from power'.

In a vitriolic post, he told followers: 'At this stage, many countries are ready to accept [Zelensky] and his family and guarantee safety of life, but it is impossible to be sure that they will not be extradited later.

'A logical end of the ******* who drowned the nation in blood.

Kiva was charged with treason for supporting Putin (File Photo)

Kyva was kicked out of parliament shortly after Russia invaded in February last year for repeating Kremlin propaganda that the country was overrun with Nazis, has no future and needs to be 'liberated' by Putin (File Photo)

'It would be better for Zelensky to commit suicide now, as losers have always done, to take all the problems with him and close the issue.

'But he is too cowardly and narcissistic for such actions.'

In a virulently anti-Zelensky diatribe on Russian state TV, Kyva said: 'The obliteration of the Slavic world that started in 1941 was merely put on hold in 1945

'The West regrouped for another strategic blow, because the key aim is total destruction of the Slavic world...

'The collapse of the Soviet Union was a tragedy splitting us into separate parts now getting captured, colonised and destroyed.

'Ukraine is a vivid example of this... occupied and under the rule of the West'

Kyva, who was from Poltava in central Ukraine, was wanted in his homeland for high treason in backing Putin's invasion.

He trained as a mechanic and psychologist before entering the civil service, and was working as a police major during Russia's last invasion - in 2014.

He led a far-right nationalist party in eastern Ukraine before getting a job in the Donetsk regional administration, then moved to the federal government and served as adviser to interior minister Arsen Avakov.

Kyva was elected to parliament himself in 2019 for a pro-Russia party founded by arrested oligarch Viktor Medvedchuk, having run unsuccessfully for president.

He was kicked out of parliament shortly after Russia invaded in February last year for repeating Kremlin propaganda that the country was overrun with Nazis, has no future and needs to be 'liberated' by Putin.

In April last year, Kyva urged Putin to use weapons of mass destruction against his own country amid growing fears that Russia could resort to using nukes (File Photo)

Kyiv rarely used to comment on whether it was behind a spate of killings of pro-Russian figures, both inside Russia and in parts of Ukraine occupied by Russian forces.

But lately it has started to claim responsibility for a number of attacks and openly threatened to hunt down other 'collaborators' and 'traitors'.

Since the Russian invasion, Ukraine has claimed to be behind several assassinations and attacks on pro-war Russians and former Ukrainian officials who have backed Moscow's war.

In August last year, Russian nationalist Darya Dugina was killed outside Moscow in a car bombing, while an explosion at a Saint Petersburg cafe in April killed Russian military blogger Vladlen Tatarsky.

Ukraine has not publicly claimed responsibility for those attacks, though US intelligence and media reports have linked Kyiv to them.

Several lower-ranking Ukrainian officials and politicians who have welcomed Russia's invasion and worked for Russian-backed authorities in occupied parts of Ukraine have also been killed.

In a separate incident, a proxy lawmaker in Ukraine's eastern Lugansk region was killed in a car bombing attack today, Russian investigators said.

Oleg Popov, who served as a deputy in the pro-Moscow Lugansk regional parliament, was killed after the 'detonation of an unidentified device in a car', Russia's Investigative Committee said, without providing detail.
The world's only intact Roman shield and body armour that was found in a German field after being buried for more than 2,000 years are set to go on display in a new exhibition at the British Museum.

The shield, which is on its maiden transatlantic loan from Yale University in the US, was found in Syria in the 1930s.

Although discovered in pieces, it was restored to its former glory by experts and will be seen by the British public for the first time in the Legion: life in the Roman army exhibition, which opens on February 1 next year.

The segmental body armour was discovered in 2018 in Kalkriese, north-west Germany, at the site of the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest, where three legions were wiped out by Germanic tribesmen in AD9.

The world's only intact Roman shield is set to go on display in a new exhibition at the British Museum. The shield, which is on its maiden transatlantic loan from Yale University in the US, was found in Syria in the 1930s

The segmental body armour was discovered in 2018 in Kalkriese, north-west Germany, at the site of the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest, where three legions were wiped out by Germanic tribesmen in AD9

The cuirass of 'lorica segmentata' plate armour - made to protect the front and back of its wearer's torso - has since been restored.

The new exhibition will also reveal the real stories of legionaries through their surviving letters.

Also on display will be the remains of a soldier found at the site of the ancient city of Herculaneum.

He will be reunited with his belt and equipment for the first time outside of Italy.

He is believed to have been one of the soldiers caught up in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.

Other objects in the exhibition - including a trumpet, sword and standard - were found at Pompeii, which was devastated by ash and lava from Vesuvius.

There will also be a rare public display of the Crosby Garrett mask helmet, which was found in Cumbria in 2010.

The discovery of the armour in Germany surprised archaeologists because most previous finds in the area had been in fragments of equipment that had been torn off dying Romans.

The experts were left baffled as to why such an object was not looted from the battlefield.

One theory suggests that the soldier who had worn the armour was subjected to a gruesome ritual sacrifice.

The Sword of Tiberius was discovered with its sheath in the Rhine, near Mainz in Germany. It has been part of the British Museum's collection since 1866

A copper alloy Roman legionary helmet that will be on display in Legion: life in the Roman army

This gold coin, depicting an oath-taking scene and inscribed with the word 'Roma' will also be on display

This was backed up by the discovery of a 'shrew's fiddle', a device which locked a prisoner's hands in an iron board that was placed around the neck.

Also found nearby was the scabbard of a dagger and the remains of a mule with its harness intact.

The roman defeat by Germanic tribes proved devastating and sent shockwaves through the empire.

Richard Abdy, the curator of the new exhibition, said: 'This is a really exciting opportunity to present an epic subject on a human scale.

'Sword and sandals, helmet and shield are all on parade here as would be expected, but told through often ordinary individuals, unfamiliar stories can also help us to understand the deceptively familiar figure of the Roman legionary.

'Every soldier has a story: it's incredible that these tales are nearly 2000 years old.'

Sir Mark Jones, interim director of the British Museum, said: 'The story of the Roman Army is more than just pitched battles and war.

'Legion: Life in the Roman army is a chance to show different perspectives and showcase the lives of the men, women, and children who formed one of the most famous armed forces in the world.'
The teen's family has launched a lawsuit and said they will not cut his hair

A school spokesperson said George will remain in school suspension till he remains in violation

A black high school student in Texas has been suspended for the length and style of his hair for the second time this year.

Darryl George, 18, was sent to an off-campus disciplinary program for 30 days after being told his dreadlocks broke the dress code at Barbers Hill High School in Mont Belvieu in September.

But once he returned to class, the school suspended him again on the same grounds and referred him to an in-school suspension for 13 days.

Darresha George, his mother, insists her son's hairstyle abides by the school's policy as he wears it tied up and claims the school is being discriminatory.

Darryl George, 18, was suspended again for wearing dreadlocks to class at Barbers Hill High School

His mother, Darresha, insists her son's hairstyle abides by the school's policy as he wears it tied up

Barbers Hill Independent School District Superintendent Greg Poole denied the policy is racist

'This has everything to do with the administration being prejudiced toward Black hairstyles, toward Black culture,' she said.

'My son is well-groomed, and his hair is not distracting from anyone's education.

'I am trying to figure out how he is in violation when he has never let his hair down. How do you know his hair is below his eyebrows?

'He is not getting a proper education. He is not getting proper instruction.'

A copy of the school's notice, as obtained by CNN reads: 'Darryl's hair is out of compliance with the BH dress code when let down. If Darryl corrects his dress code violation he will be allowed to return to his regular classes.'

The code states that a male student's hair cannot be worn in a style 'that would allow the hair to extend below the top of a t-shirt collar, below the eyebrows, or below the ear lobes when let down'.

The school district says its dress code is meant to 'teach grooming and hygiene, instill discipline, prevent disruption, avoid safety hazards and teach respect for authority'.

'When you are asked to conform and give up something for the betterment of the whole, there is a psychological benefit,' said district superintendent Greg Poole.

'We need more teaching (of) sacrifice.'

The school code states that a male student's hair cannot be worn in a style 'that would allow the hair to extend below the top of a t-shirt collar, below the eyebrows, or below the ear lobes when let down'

Darryl's mother Darresha said her son's hair complies with the school's code which requires hair to be above the eyebrow and above the earlobe

David Bloom, a Barbers Hill Independent School District spokesperson, told CNN that the teen will remain in in-school suspension until adheres to the dress code.

'Until he cuts [his] hair or we get [a] court ruling to the contrary, he will stay in ISS,' he said.

He also said George's graduation date will not be impacted despite him missing out on most of his junior year classes.

'As far as graduation impact, there is none. A program is in place for him to complete his courses in dress-code ISS if he chooses not to trim his hair,' Bloom said, adding that a teacher is assigned to each ISS classroom to help students complete regular coursework.

The family said it would not cut the teenager's hair and filed a lawsuit against Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, the state's attorney general and school officials for allegedly failing to enforce the state's CROWN Act law

George said he feels like is being singled out because there are other boys in the school with longer hairstyles.

'It's frustrating because I'm getting punished for something everyone else is doing, growing hair, having hair,' he said.

The family said it would not cut the teenager's hair and filed a lawsuit against Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, the state's attorney general and school officials for allegedly failing to enforce the state's CROWN Act law.

Standing for 'Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair', the CROWN Act took effect on September 1 as Texas became the 24th state to protect the right to wear Afros, braids, or dreadlocks.

The act was designed to prevent school and work-based discrimination against ordinary black hairstyles.
Driver was with children and argued with firefighters about where he'd parked

Clip was filmed by local and uploaded online on Sunday showing the altercation

Fans have said the man in the video arguing with firefighters is rapper M Dot R

Fans have said that a man who was caught rowing with a firefighter after he blocked a fire station entrance is a British rapper.

A video has emerged of a driver, who people believe to be M Dot R, real name Moses Robert McGeorge, in a heated debate with firemen in Sheerness on the Isle of Sheppey, Kent, after he parked on double yellow lines.

The clip, which was filmed by a local, appears to show the man standing by the door to the driver's seat of a silver Vauxhall Astra alongside four children as he is mid-debate with a fireman.

The vehicle was parked outside the fire station, appearing to block in a fire truck which had its blue lights on.

Two firemen seem to be attempting to leave the fire station to respond to an emergency as one of them argues with the driver.

A man got into a heated debate with firefighters (pictured) in Kent after he parked in front of a fire station entrance on double yellows

People have said the man in the clip is M Dot R (pictured), real name Moses Robert McGeorge

One fireman can be heard telling the supposed rapper to 'go away' as part of a demand to move his car, to which he angrily responds: 'I'm going out the way.'

The children climb into the car, with the alleged rapper as the fireman said: 'Go away. You're an idiot.'

People can be heard behind the camera discussing the situation, saying: 'F*****g p***k, what is he doing?'

The man then throws his car into reverse and backs up out of the way.

As soon as the silver car moved out of the way, the fire engine turned its siren on and rushed out of the station.

M Dot R has gained an online following for his use of Jamaican Patois - particularly in his freestyle raps.

The local posted the video to social media on Sunday and tagged the musician in the caption.

As soon as the silver car moved out of the way, the fire engine turned its siren and lights on and rushed out of the station

One of the firemen tells the man to 'go away' and points his finger before the alleged rapper angrily shouts 'I'm going out the way'

The man then reversed the silver Vauxhall Astra down the road to move it out of the way for the firefighters to get their truck out

The clip has quickly gained over 28,000 likes and more than 1,500 comments from users left astonished by the shocking parking and demeanour.

Another replied: 'They should be allowed to push any vehicles out the way that [are] blocking them.'

A fifth wrote: 'That's terrible, anyone that has this intentional abusive attitude towards the emergency services should have their licence revoked.'

MailOnline has contacted M Dot R's management for comment.
The cash infusion comes months after officials at Brightline said they needed federal funding to help bring the project to life

A high-speed bullet train connecting LA to Sin City has secured some $3billion in federal funding from the Biden Administration.

Billed as Brightline West, the planned route will be able to traverse the notorious Nevada desert at 186mph in just two hours, and will cost about $12billion to create. The grant announced Tuesday will cover roughly a third of that cost.

Unprecedented for a private firm, the cash infusion comes months after company officials at Brightline said they needed federal funding to help bring the project to life.

The firm - which recently finished a diesel-powered rail that connects Orlando to Miami - is the only private passenger rail company in the country, and could be the first in the US to complete a high-speed, electric-powered option if their plan is successful.

That said, the planned route is actually the brain child of Wes Edens, the billionaire part-owner of both the Bucks and Aston Villa FC. He helped found Brightline in 2012 to make his vision a reality, and is now thanking officials for their vote of confidence.

Scroll down for video:

Billed as Brightline West, the planned route will extend 218 miles through the Nevada desert and connect to The City of Angels' Metrolink commuter rail. On Wednesday, the 186mph train secured $3billion in federal funding from the Biden Administration

Not yet seen in the US, the technology will grant the train the ability to traverse the desert in just two hours as opposed to the usual four or five. The cash infusion, meanwhile, is unprecedented for a private firm, and comes months after the Florida company asked for it

'Were honored and humbled in the confidence President Biden, Secretary [Pete] Buttigieg, Senator [Jacky] Rosen [of Nevada] and so many others have placed in Brightlines vision to bring true high-speed rail to America,' he said in a statement.

'This is a historic moment that will serve as a foundation for a new industry, and a remarkable project that will serve as the blueprint for how we can repeat this model throughout the country.'

The 62-year-old - who is worth a reported $3.7billion - went on to add: 'Were ready to get to work to bring our vision of American made, American built, world class, state-of-the-art high speed train travel to America.'

The celebratory statement came moments after multiple bipartisan lawmakers from Nevada and California issued their own bulletins confirming the grant had been secured, after they had pushed for it for months.

They have billed the 270-mile link between the star-crossed cities as a needed economic driver, as well as a prime candidate for country's latest attempt to echo the bullet trains that are already prevalent across Asia and Europe.

One of the gargantuan plan's main proponents, US Senator Rosen, was the first to confirm the grant had been awarded.

She wrote: 'This historic high-speed rail project will be a game changer for Nevadas tourism economy and transportation.

'Itll bring more visitors to our state, reduce traffic on the I-15, create thousands of good paying jobs, and decrease carbon emissions, all while relying on local union labor.'

One of the gargantuan plan's main proponents, US Senator Rosen, on Wednesday announced had been awarded. She called the rail 'a game changer for Nevadas tourism economy and transportation,' adding 'Itll bring more visitors to our state' while creating thousands of jobs,

Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, also of Nevada, similarly said that the project will be a 'game changer' once construction is set to be completed in 2028, and called the federal aid critical to making that happen

They have billed the 270-mile link between the star-crossed cities as a needed economic driver, as well as a prime candidate for country's latest attempt to echo the bullet trains that are already prevalent across Asia and Europe

A rendering of the high-speed California-to-Las Vegas train, which will make stops in Ranch Cucamonga, Hesperia, Victor Valley, and last but not least, Las Vegas. It connects to an existing commuter line that extends to the City of Angels

The planned 218-mile desert route is the brain child of Wes Edens, 61, a part owner of both the Bucks and Aston Villa FC worth $3.7billion. Also the chairman of Brightline, he thanked officials Wednesday for the grant, while proudly stating his plan will now become a reality

Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, also of Nevada, similarly said the project will be a 'game changer' once construction is set to be completed in 2028, and called the federal aid critical to making that happen.

Both revealed that the $3billion grant is funded from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which, when it was passed in 2021, was billed as 'a once-in-a-generation investment in our nations infrastructure and competitiveness.'

The taxpayer-funded guidance seeks to funnel money into Americas roads, bridges and rails, while also expanding access to things like clean drinking water and high-speed internet.

It will also see cash injected into research on how to handle the climate crisis, as well as the advancement of environmental justice and communities that have too often been left behind.

Lawmakers and politicians in both states, particularly Nevada, have claimed they fit the criteria, citing how a two-hour train trip would come as welcome news to the millions of Americans who travel from Southern California to Vegas on a yearly basis.

The lion's share, statistics show, come from the City of Angels - with approximately 50 million one-way trips made annually between the city and Law Vegas, mostly by car or bus.

At full operations, Edens and Brightline said they expect to sell 12 million one-way tickets each year.

The $3billion grant is funded from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which, when it was passed in 2021, was billed as 'a once-in-a-generation investment in our nations infrastructure and competitiveness'

The system now could be up and running as soon as 2028 - welcome news to the more than 7.5million Americans who travel the 270 miles to Las Vegas from SoCal on a yearly basis

Roughly 20 percent of all US citizens to visit the glitzed-up tourist hot spot last year hailed from Southern California - with the lion's share coming from the City of Angels (seen here)

Travelers will make the journey at speeds of roughly 200 mph, Edens says, along routes that follow preexisting highways through the arid Nevada desert

Earlier this year, Edens, who previously worked as a partner at the now-defunct Lehman Brothers and also runs Manhattan-based Fortress Investments, said the demand is there, and it's about time the US caught up with other first-world countries.

'Vegas-to-LA is probably the best system in the world that hasn't been built yet,' he told Forbes in an interview, pointing to the US' current lack of a bullet train.

'When you look at the systems in Japan, at the systems in China, nine major cities in Japan are connected with true high-speed rail.'

The billionaire businessman went on to cite the struggles currently being felt by state officials in California, who for years have tried - unsuccessfully - to finish work on a separate bullet train that would connect LA to San Francisco.

That project has remained marred by setbacks for more 15 years, and has already cost taxpayers an eyewatering $108bn.

'China has 26,000 miles of high-speed train routes. We have zero,' Edens scoffed.

By comparison, the businessman promised it would only cost him about $12billion to forge the 218-mile path, all in a fraction of the time - even after the Covid-19 pandemic uprooted his plans for a passenger rail future for three years.

Moreover, thanks to the new grant, Edens' somewhat lofty timeline of completing the infrastructure in time for the 2028 Olympics would see Brightline West finished before the California train's forecast completion in 2030 - during which time it is expected to run residents another $35.3billion before it is complete.

thanks to the new grant, Edens' somewhat lofty timeline of completing the infrastructure in time for the 2028 Olympics would see Brightline West finished before the California train's forecast completion in 2030 - during which time it is expected to run residents another $35.3billion before it is complete. A rendering of

Meanwhile, Edens' vision for Brightline, now becoming a reality, began way back in 2007, when he and his investment firm Fortress took over South Florida-Brightline for $3.5billion, before rebranding it in 2012 as his own company.

Over the years, his plans for the firm would blossom - while drawing inspiration from the Paris-to-London Eurostar and other bullet trains in Asia.

He eventually grew confident enough to put more than $100million of his own money into the venture, before pitching his idea of two high-speed train lines - one linking Orlando to Miami and the other connecting Vegas with California - to both state's governors.

At the time, the respected financier touted the two trains' potential to build up their respective economies - and ultimately secured several tax-exempt bonds for the Sunshine State expansion, now set to open in just two months.

In April 2020, he was awarded $600 million in private-activity allocation from California to start work on the more daunting Golden State undertaking, which was stalled that month due to coronavirus lockdown measures.

Up to $2.4billion worth of bonds from that award, as well as any further funding from the government, can in turn be sold to investors, as construction for the large-scale infrastructure project looks to be in the cards after lawmakers' letter last week.

Speaking to Forbes in April, the same day Brightline released realistic renderings of some of the routes stations and a proposed map for the route, Edens insisted how the model for the country's first true high-speed rail system is economically viable - adding that he's happy to wait for several years before seeing the fruits of his efforts.

'I don't think it's a get-rich-quick business. It's more of a get-rich-very-slowly business,' Edens explained. 'But the value you're creating over years or generations I think will be tremendous.'

He added: 'What I'm very focused on is it being viable economically because that means there'll be more of them.'

Now, with the hurdle of federal funding seemingly addressed, the last obstacles are likely only unforeseen challenges that might arise with such a large-scale project - which Brightline claims will cost about $55million per mile of track.

Edens says he will easily raise an additional $8bn from private investors, whom he claims were already enthralled by his plans for the four-stop passenger rail years ago. He has also put about 100million of his own money to the venture, which be powered by solar farms currently spread across California and Nevada desert.

Not yet seen in the US, the technology will grant the train the ability to traverse the notorious desert on entirely green energy.

'It'll be 100% electrified and will use renewable power,' Edens said in an interview this week with Forbes, advertising the already anticipated bullet train a day after after the project passed a major hurdle in Congress.

'It will literally be, not an embellishment, the greenest train in the world.'
A teenage boy accused of killing Brianna Ghey after he and a 15-year-old girl allegedly lured her to a park told police that murder 'goes against everything I believe', a court heard today.

The 16-year-old, who is being referred to as Boy Y because of his age, told officers that he turned away for a moment before seeing his co-accused, Girl X, stab the schoolgirl 'at least three times' before the pair fled.

However jurors heard from a forensic scientist who said 'airborne' blood found on the clothing Boy Y was wearing that day  and the absence of blood found on Girl X's clothes - contradicted his claim that he turned around to see her stabbing Brianna.

Although under questioning from Boy Y's barrister, the expert accepted that it was possible for bloodstains to vanish when clothes are washed.

Boy Y and Girl X, who are said to have been fascinated by torture, violence and death, deny murdering Brianna  who was transgender - in Culcheth Linear Park near Warrington, Cheshire on February 11.

Brianna Ghey (pictured) was stabbed to death in Culcheth Linear Park near Warrington, Cheshire on February 11.

The prosecution claim that Brianna (pictured) was lured to the park by Girl X and Boy Y before she was stabbed 28 times in 'a sustained and violent assault'

A handwritten alleged 'murder plan' to kill Brianna was later found in the bedroom of Girl X, who was allegedly obsessed with serial killers and had described herself as a 'Satanist'.

Click here to listen to the Mail's new podcast The Trial The Trial...takes listeners behind the headlines and into the courtrooms of some of the biggest trials in the world. The first series 'The Trial of Lucy Letby' was a global hit, with more than 13 million downloads, while season two focused on the murder of Ashling Murphy, a 23-year-old teacher from Ireland. Its third season follows the tragic case of Brianna Ghey, a 16-year-old transgender girl killed in Warrington, England. Follow the evidence as the jury hears it, in twice-weekly reports from The Daily Mail's Northern Correspondent Liz Hull and broadcast journalist Caroline Cheetham. Advertisement

The trial has heard she was stabbed 28 times in a 'frenzied' attack, suffering injuries 'consistent' with Boy Y's 12cm (4in) hunting knife.

It was found, with traces of Brianna's blood still on it, in his bedroom following his arrest the following evening.

In the final part of Boy Y's police interviews, played to the jury on the eighth day of the trial, he insisted that he had not brought his knife to the park on the day Brianna was killed.

'I never tried to murder anyone,' Boy Y said.

'It goes against everything I already know and believe, everything.

'It stops anything I want to do in the future. I just never tried to do anything like what's happened.

'I wanted Girl X to think that I was with her. I wanted to make, think that I was a part of her. I don't like the thought of being excluded from situations. I want to be included in everyone's thoughts.'

Boy Y and Girl X had swapped a series of messages about a list of five children they wanted to kill, the jury has heard, talking in graphic detail about torturing their victims.

But he told police he had simply been 'playing along' with her 'fantasy' and never expected her to attack Brianna.

In the final interview, Boy Y was asked about why he and Girl X discussed bringing a knife and arranging code words for when to attack Brianna if  as he claimed  the plan was just 'a joke'.

He replied: 'She had been acting like that, talking about murders, for ages.

'She mentioned about being a Satanist.

'So I just assumed that she wants to talk to me about planning murders because she sees me as a smart person.'

Boy Y  who has told police he wanted to 'fit in' - added: 'I don't like the thought of being excluded from situations.'

Detectives then began to question him about the hunting knife.

Brianna, 16, and her mother Esther pictured together before her death earlier this year

The jury were previously shown CCTV footage of Brianna boarding a bus as she made her final journey to a park in Culcheth

But his solicitor asked for a break, and when the interview resumed Boy Y replied 'No comment' to all further questions, while hugging a football which jurors have been told he was given to 'ease his anxiety while he was being interviewed'.

Jurors at Manchester Crown Court were today shown a photograph of Brianna's bloodstained body.

Prosecutor Deanna Heer, KC, explained that the jury were being shown the photograph to help explain expert evidence on the blood distribution.

Members of the jury were unable to see Brianna's face and her head was covered by the hood of her jacket on which a patch of blood could be seen.

Afterwards the hearing was adjourned for a short break.

Forensic scientist Jane Roughley, an expert in blood distribution at crime scenes, said blood pooling indicated that Brianna had been 'bleeding freely' for some time.

Blood found on Boy Y's trainers indicated that they had come into 'forceful direct contact' with Brianna's blood, she said.

Police at the scene in Culcheth Linear Park in Warrington on February 13, following the death of Brianna Ghey

Police and forensics at the scene where Brianna's body was found in Linear Park in Culcheth, Warrington, in February this year

The expert said bloodstains found on a ski jacket belonging to Boy Y could be explained by him wearing it while he was in close proximity to a source of 'airborne' blood from Brianna.

Ms Roughley said that no blood from Brianna was found on items recovered from Girl X including her jacket and trainers.

Cross-examined by Richard Pratt KC, for Girl X, Ms Roughley agreed that it was 'not realistic' that Girl X had inflicted all 28 stab wounds without any transfer of blood onto her clothing.

She accepted that the scientific evidence around blood found on Boy Y's jacket and the absence of blood on Girl X's jacket contradicted his account that she had inflicted all the blows.

The scientist said that it was still possible for someone to inflict blows without any transfer of blood but accepted that the scientific evidence was 'consistent' with Girl X's account of events.

She agreed with Richard Littler, KC, for Boy Y, that she did not know whether the jacket from Girl X she had examined was the jacket she was wearing at the scene.

She also agreed that it was possible for bloodstains to disappear when washed.

She said: 'One explanation is that he had used the knife and then tried to clean it, leaving behind staining in an area not easily accessible.'

Girl X, now 16, of Warrington, and Boy Y, also 16 and of Leigh, Greater Manchester, deny murder and now blame each other for wielding the hunting knife which allegedly inflicted the fatal wounds.

The trial continues.
Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy will retire at the end of this month, he announced Wednesday.

In an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal, he boasted of the House's accomplishments under his speakership.

'It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways. I know my work is only getting started,' he wrote.

'I will continue to recruit our countrys best and brightest to run for elected office. The Republican Party is expanding every day, and I am committed to lending my experience to support the next generation of leaders.'

McCarthy first took office in the House in 2007. He quickly rose through the ranks, jumping from deputy whip, majority whip, majority leader then minority leader then speaker.

After taking fifteen ballots to cinch the speakership in January, the California Republican was summarily ousted by his colleagues nine months later over a clean spending bill he put on the House floor.

Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy will retire at the end of this month, he announced Wednesday. He spoke exclusively with DailyMail.com last week ahead of his announcement

'It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways. I know my work is only getting started,' the former speaker wrote

He was the first speaker to ever be removed by a motion to vacate.

The House Republican majority will now whittle down to two with McCarthy's departure, after Rep. George Santos, R-N.Y., was expelled last week.

The special election for Santos' seat is February 13.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., sounded off about the slimmed majority on X.

'Well.. Now in 2024, we will have a 1 seat majority in the House of Representatives. Congratulations Freedom Caucus for one and 105 Rep who expel our own for the other. I can assure you Republican voters didnt give us the majority to crash the ship. Hopefully no one dies.'

The retirement announcement follows one by Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., McCarthy's close ally who helped negotiate the debt limit deal for him with the White House. McHenry will finish out his term and not seek reelection.

'No matter the odds, or personal cost, we did the right thing,' McCarthy wrote. 'That may seem out of fashion in Washington these days, but delivering results for the American people is still celebrated across the country.'

Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., reacted to the news on X: 'McLeavin.'

Gaetz launched a motion to vacate after McCarthy put a 'clean' continuing resolution, or CR, on the House floor to continue government spending at 2023 levels for six weeks and avoid a government shutdown. Gaetz and other conservatives wanted to see steep spending cuts, and no CRs.

Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell offered a message of praise on X.

.@SpeakerMcCarthys neighbors in Bakersfield were fortunate to have such an optimistic doer represent them for 17 years. I am proud of the work we accomplished together in the Capitol, and I wish him the very best as he writes a new chapter.'

Months ago in September, McCarthy was critical of Rep. Victoria Spartz, R-Ind., for considering leaving Congress.

'I mean, if Victoria is concerned about fighting stronger, I wish she would run again and not quit. I mean, I'm not quitting. I'm going to continue work for the American public.'
Kemi Badenoch today told MPs that draft new laws would address the 'threat' to gay people from 'a new form of conversion therapy' relating to gender identity.

The Women and Equalities Minister, speaking in the House of Commons, confirmed a commitment to publishing draft legislation on banning so-called conversion therapy.

She said she was 'determined to meet this promise', but added the issue had 'developed' since the Tories first pledged to outlaw the practice under ex-PM Theresa May.

'Now the threat to many young gay people is not conversion relating to their sexuality, but conversion relating to gender identity,' Ms Badenoch said.

The Cabinet minister pointed to the example of Keira Bell, who brought a legal case against London's Tavistock Centre over her gender transitioning.

Ms Badenoch said Bell was 'rushed onto puberty blockers by the NHS and had a double mastectomy', but was now among those who 'regret the irreversible damage done to them'.

'I believe that this is a new form of conversion therapy,' the Cabinet minister told the Commons.

Kemi Badenoch told MPs that draft new laws would address the 'threat' to gay people from 'a new form of conversion therapy' relating to gender identity

The Cabinet minister pointed to the example of Keira Bell, who brought a legal case against London 's Tavistock Centre over her gender transitioning

After her appearance in the Commons this afternoon, Ms Badenoch was accused of 'attacking trans people' and 'seeking a permanent culture war'.

Both Mrs May and Boris Johnson pledged to ban 'conversion therapy' when they were in Downing Street.

But Rishi Sunak controversially did not include the promise of a ban in the King's Speech last month, which set out his Government's new legislative agenda.

Teens trapped by delay to new gender clinics Children aged 16 waiting for NHS gender-identity appointments are being advised to seek adult referrals through their GP because of delays in opening new clinics. The Gender Identity Development Service (Gids), based in north London and the only one of its kind, is due to close in March to be replaced by two regional sites. However, the opening of the new sites, planned for spring this year, has been pushed back to April next year. Gids is not currently offering any first appointments, and the new clinics will only see patients who are 16 and under. It means that 16-year-olds on the waiting list who turn 17 before next April will only be able to get adult appointments. NHS England has written to those involved and says in its letter: 'You may want to make a decision about whether to discuss a referral to an adult gender incongruence service with your GP.' Doctors have criticised the move, with GP partner Dr Nick Grundy, of south-west London, telling Pulse magazine: 'There are so many things wrong with this.' Advertisement

Ms Badenoch was pressed on the issue today by Tory former minister Sir Conor Burns.

He asked if it was 'still the Government's intention to bring forward conversion therapy ban legislation' to the Commons.

Ms Badenoch replied: 'I am very, very happy to confirm that.

She added: 'A commitment was given to publish a draft conversion practices bill for pre-legislative scrutiny.

'I am determined to meet this promise, as I know is the minister for equalities (Stuart Andrew).

'Attempts at so-called conversion therapy are abhorrent and are largely already illegal.

'So what a bill would do is identify this as a particular threat to gay people and confirm the illegality of harmful processes intended to change someone's sexuality.

'In that time, since this bill was first promised, this issue has developed.

'Now the threat to many young gay people is not conversion relating to their sexuality, but conversion relating to gender identity.

'Girls like Keira Bell who were rushed onto puberty blockers by the NHS and had a double mastectomy now regret the irreversible damage done to them.

'I believe that this is a new form of conversion therapy. Respected clinicians, like those who left Tavistock, have made clear they are fearful of giving honest clinical advice to a child.

'Because if they do not automatically affirm and medicalise a child's new gender, they will be labelled transphobic.

'So whatever bill we do needs to address many of those issues, and that is why we are going to publish a draft bill.'

Ms Badenoch answered MPs' questions after announcing changes to how people from overseas can have their gender legally recognised in the UK.

Someone can apply for a gender recognition certificate (GRC) if they are 18 or over, have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria in the UK, have been living in their affirmed gender for at least two years, and intend to live in this gender for the rest of their life.

If someone has had their gender previously recognised in one of the countries or territories on an approved list, they do not need to provide medical reports when applying for gender recognition in the UK.

Ms Badenoch announced an update to the approved list, which she said was the first since 2011.

She told MPs some countries and territories on the current approved list had made changes to their systems which mean they are not considered to have 'similarly rigorous' systems as those in the UK.

'Inadvertently allowing self-ID for obtaining GRCs is not Government policy,' she added.

'It should not be possible for a person who does not satisfy the criteria for UK legal gender recognition to use the overseas routes to do so.

'We also need to ensure parity with UK applicants. It would not be fair for the overseas routes to be based on less rigorous evidential requirements.

'This would damage the integrity and credibility of the process in the Gender Recognition Act.'

Ms Badenoch's statement and comments to the Commons sparked anger among some MPs.

Labour's Sarah Champion wrote on Twitter: 'I find it dangerous that Kemi Badenoch is using parliamentary time to persecute the infinitesimal small number of people who exploit trans gender certification.

'In doing, so she is deliberately slurring & marginalising all trans people. This is how atrocities start. Shame on you!'

Kate Osborne, a fellow Labour MP, posted: 'It's disgusting that Kemi Badenoch is using last minute parliamentary statements to push dangerous changes, attacking trans people & seeking a permanent culture war.

'LGBTQ+ ppl have been betrayed by Govt & hate crime has sky-rocketed. Language matters. They must stop stoking hate.'

Elliot Colburn, Tory MP for Carshalton and Wallington, noted how polls showed Britons considered the cost-of-living crisis, the NHS, immigration and climate change to be the biggest issues facing the country.

'Yet today, Parliament has indulged in nasty, anti-LGBT+ rhetoric in a debate, a committee and a statement. Truly depressing,' he tweeted.
Donors like Bill Ackman are leading withdrawal of funding in response

UPenn President Liz Magill smirked when asked if it violated code of conduct

There are growing calls for the presidents of Harvard, UPenn and MIT to resign today over their 'extremely troubling' testimony on antisemitism which included them saying calling for the genocide of Jews was allowed on their campuses.

The three women yesterday stunned lawmakers at a congressional hearing on campus antisemitism where they refused to denounce calls for the genocide of Jews as 'harassment', and said such hate speech does not violate their codes of conduct.

Today, students from the schools along with some of the shocked Republicans present at the hearing say it is clear that all three must resign.

The boards of each school - which ultimately decide whether the women will remain in their positions - are yet to make their positions clear.

And while donors including Bill Ackman have expressed their disgust with the remarks, other prominent alumni and donors like Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg remain silent on the issue.

Harvard President Claudine Gay at the congressional hearing yesterday where she said calling for the genocide of Jews does not violate the school's code of conduct

Rep. Elise Stefanik, who led questioning of the three school leaders yesterday, said their remarks equated to 'moral depravity on display'

The Harvard Board of Overseers is yet to respond to inquiries on Dr. Gay's remarks, as is its Alumni Association. UPenn and MIT have been equally silent.

Rep. Elise Stefanik ( who was the most aggressive in questioning the trio yesterday, slammed the 'moral depravity' of their answers.

'I've been in a number of very high-profile congressional hearings over the years and the pathetic moral depravity on display by the witnesses, the three universities presidents from Harvard, Mitt and Penn, I haven't witnessed anything like that.

'I asked the question in such a way it was an easy yes, that calling for the genocide of Jews in fact does violate their policies and code of conduct when it comes to bullying and harassment.

'Their answers were pathetic. I was so shaken, Harris, and what was probably the most tragic aspect of the hearing to me was there were a number of Jewish students from those schools in the audience sitting behind them and to watch just the fear as they are listening to the presidents of these universities fail to answer a basic question of moral clarity was abyss mall.

UPenn student Eyal Yakoby said the schools 'got it wrong again'. He and others say Jewish students cannot feel safe now

Rep. Burgess Owens slammed the schools for 'indoctrinating our kids with evil'

Bill Ackman said all three women must resign 'in disgrace' after their testimony

'They need to be fired. It is absurd that this is happening in the 21st century on so-called elite college campuses.

'I'm a graduate of Harvard university. This should never happen at Harvard or anywhere. The reality is if you put three middle schoolers across America and ask them the same question, they would correctly answer the question and say that it is wrong.

'The fact that these presidents of universities could not answer it, it has rotted out our ivory towers and the intellectual institutions who do not understand moral clarity,' she fumed.

Rep. Burgess Owens told FOX: 'We have a system that is broken. We have an evil being taught: it's a virus called DEI. It's a Marxist based ideology that there's an oppressive race.

'There is no leadership - that's what we saw yesterday.'

Rep. Owens, who is black, grilled Dr. Gay on Harvard allowing black and Hispanic-only graduations, asking her if she condoned race segregation.

Today, he said he had 'never seen anything like' the hatred among college students that is now playing out.

Dr. Claudine Gay, President of Harvard University, Liz Magill, President of University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Pamela Nadell, Professor of History and Jewish Studies at American University, and Dr. Sally Kornbluth, President of Massachusetts Institute of Technology

U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik (R-NY) calls for Harvard University President Claudine Gay's resignation during a House Education and The Workforce Committee hearing

'We're sending our kids there to be injected by evil and they're coming out hating whites, hating Jews. They know what they're doing - we need to start holding people accountable.

'They are segregating people - we're raising a group of kids who truly hate each other. I've never seen anything like it.

'It is a purposeful indoctrination of our children.'

Eyal Yakoby, a 21-year-old Jewish UPenn student, echoed Owens' fury.

'There is such a lack of dissemination of information and it seriously has become the responsibility of students, alumni and parents to actually share the stories of what's happening on campus.

'President Magill said "we cannot get it wrong." Well, she got it wrong yet again.

'She could not answer.'

When asked by Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) if calling for the genocide of Jews was harassment, Magill smirked and replied: 'It is a context-dependent decision.'

'I think that should scare beyond just Jews. It's not just Jews - it's any sort of human being that she is openly, in congress, that that does not directly violate the code of conduct of UPenn.

'I don't know what context she is referring to. What other context is she looking for?

'It is very scary to think what the next step in terms of context is.'
Were YOU on one of the buses?

Police and transport chiefs are probing claims London buses refused to allow Jewish schoolchildren on board.

The reports triggered outrage among the capital's Jewish population and sparked calls from Conservatives for London Mayor Sadiq Khan to launch his own probe into alleged antisemitism.

The Metropolitan Police and Transport for London (TfL) have confirmed they are looking into two reported incidents, which occurred in Stamford Hill and Hackney last week.

In one incident on November 26, it's claimed several Jewish schoolboys were signalling for a bus to stop in Egerton Road in Stamford Hill, north London shortly after 8am.

It's alleged the driver of the 76 bus, which was heading towards Waterloo, initially slowed down but then continued without stopping.

Were YOU on one of the buses? Please email tom.cotterill@mailonline.co.uk

Police and transport chiefs are probing claims London buses refused to allow Jewish schoolchildren on board (file image)

The Met Police said that several passengers were reportedly encouraging the driver's alleged actions - while also making vile antisemitic remarks.

Three days later on November 29, a similar incident was said to have taken place in Ravensdale Road in Hackney.

On this occasion, a 13-year-old Jewish girl reported her bus had initially slowed down after several Jewish boys put their hands out for it to stop.

However, it was claimed the driver of the 318 service then accelerated and refused to let them on. A non-Jewish person was then permitted on board further down the road.

A Met Police spokesperson said of the two incidents: 'It is alleged that the drivers slowed while approaching bus stops where children were waiting, before speeding up without stopping.

'On both occasions it is suggested that the children were obviously Jewish based on their appearance.

'It is alleged that during [one of the two] incidents, the other passengers on the bus made antisemitic remarks in support of the driver's actions.'

News of the allegations sparked an urgent call from Keith Prince, City Hall Conservatives transport spokesman, for Mr Khan to launch his own probe.

It comes amid a spike in antisemitic incidents in London since the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas on October 7, which saw a 1,353 per cent increase in October compared to the same month last year.

In his open letter to the Mayor, Mr Prince said: 'Antisemitism has no place in our great, multi-cultural city. It is reassuring to read that the Met Police are investigating but can I please seek your assurance that these alleged incidents will also be investigated as a matter of urgency by Transport for London and that appropriate action will be taken

London Mayor Sadiq Khan is being urged to investigate the allegations

Tory Keith Prince, City Hall Conservatives transport spokesman, has urged Mr Khan to launch his own probe

'Can you also please confirm that London bus drivers have been reminded of their obligations to treat all passengers equally and without discrimination?'

Responding to the claims, a TFL spokesperson said: 'We do not tolerate any form of discrimination on our network and take any reports of this extremely seriously.

'These incidents are being investigated by the bus operating companies and any necessary disciplinary action would be taken in line with their established procedures.

'We would urge anyone who has information about these incident or has experienced discrimination to report this to us or to the police so that it can be investigated.'

News of the alleged incidents sparked outrage within London's Jewish neighbourhood watch group Shomrim.

Chaim Hochhauser, chief executive of Shomrim, described 'children terrified to go home from school or use public transport', telling the Independent: 'We are talking about kids waiting at bus stops to go onto buses. Bus drivers see the Jewish people waiting for buses and they say, 'No, you are not getting on,' and drive off.

'It's happening all over  at supermarkets and clothes stores, they say, 'We are not serving you Jewish people'. We are seeing it all over London, and it's unfair. Why should we suffer like this? Our children don't know what is happening in the Middle East, they don't have TVs, it's not their fault.'

Shaye Fischer, from the group and chair of the Springfield Ward Panel in Hackney, was 'deeply disturbed' by the report, telling the Jewish Chronicle: 'This unacceptable conduct includes denying them boarding and ignoring their subjection to racial abuse.

'Such actions reflect a worrying trend of discrimination within our public transport system.'

Those with information are urged to call police on 101 using the reference 4606/26NOV in relation to the incident on November 26 or 6372/29NOV for the November 29 incident.

A spokesperson for the Mayor of London said: 'The Mayor is clear that there is no place in London for discrimination or hate crime of any kind and it is absolutely right that investigations were launched into the two incidents as soon as they were reported and that disciplinary action will be taken if needed.

'Sadiq continues to support TfL and the Met Police in taking a zero-tolerance approach to antisemitism which is sadly rising in London and across the UK.

'He is also working closely the Community Security Trust to provide them with enhanced support in their work supporting Jewish Londoners, including investing 250,000 to prioritise support in tackling the rise in antisemitism and other hate crimes in the capital and build a safer London for all.

'This is just one part of the part of the record 11million the Mayor has dedicated to combatting hatred, intolerance and extremism in all its forms and support for grassroots community groups to stand up to hate.'
New Mexico has launched a civil suit against Meta platforms and Mark Zuckerberg after an investigation revealed that Facebook and Instagram has become a 'marketplace for predators.'

The civil lawsuit was filed Tuesday in New Mexico state court and alleges that 'Meta knowingly exposes children to the twin dangers of sexual exploitation and mental health harm.'

'Meta's platforms Facebook and Instagram are a breeding ground for predators who target children for human trafficking, the distribution of sexual images, grooming, and solicitation,' the suit claims.

The suit used AI-generated photos of minors, which were then used to make fake accounts. The accounts were recommended sexual content and saw a bevy of explicit messages from other users, the suit claims.

'Our investigation into Meta's social media platforms demonstrates that they are not safe spaces for children but rather prime locations for predators to trade child pornography and solicit minors for sex,' said Attorney General Raul Torrez.

New Mexico has launched a civil suit against Meta platforms and Mark Zuckerberg after an investigation revealed that Facebook and Instagram has become a 'marketplace for predators'

The suit claims that Meta failed to implement protections for children below the age of 13 and has targeted age-related vulnerabilities to increase their advertising revenue.

Zuckerberg has been held personally responsible for product decisions that increase risks for children on Meta's social media platforms, the suit says.

The New Mexico attorney general's office filed the suit after running an independent investigation into the matter.

Zuckerberg has been held personally responsible for product decisions that increase risks for children on Meta's social media platforms, the suit says

They set up test accounts on Instagram and Facebook using artificial-intelligence generated photographs and made fake accounts pretending to be those teenagers or preteens.

The suit claims Meta's algorithms recommended sexual content to those accounts and that they saw an avalanche of explicit messages and sexual propositions from other users.

One account set up under the name 'Issa Bee' by investigators attracted thousands of adult followers who invited her to private chat groups and sent her sexually explicit content featuring children and adults, the suit claimed.

On Facebook Messenger, the account's chats are 'filled with pictures and videos of genitalia, including exposed penises, which she received at least three to four times per week.'

Spokeswoman, Sophie Vogel, told DailyMail.com: 'Child exploitation is a horrific crime and online predators are determined criminals.

'We use sophisticated technology, hire child safety experts, report content to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and share information and tools with other companies and law enforcement, including state attorneys general, to help root out predators.

'In one month alone, we disabled more than half a million accounts for violating our child safety policies.'

The civil lawsuit was filed Tuesday in New Mexico state court and alleges that 'Meta knowingly exposes children to the twin dangers of sexual exploitation and mental health harm'

The suit also claims that Meta failed to implement protections for children below the age of 13 and has targeted age-related vulnerabilities to increase their advertising revenue

Additionally, in a statement to the Wall Street Journal the company said that it works diligently to protect young users.

'We use sophisticated technology, hire child safety experts, report content to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and share information and tools with other companies and law enforcement, including state attorneys general, to help root out predators,' the statement said.

In a Facebook post in 2021, Zuckerberg wrote: 'It's very important to me that everything we build is safe and good for kids.'

The company has said that its taken measures to address issues including removing 16,000 Facebook Groups and creating an enforcement algorithm that identifies predatory accounts.

In October 33 US states sued Meta Platforms and its Instagram unit, accusing them of intentionally jeopardizing the mental health of children and teenagers for profit.

The bombshell lawsuit alleged that Zuckerberg's corporation had 'profoundly altered the psychological and social realities of a generation of young Americans' by 'ensnaring' them in addictive cycles through its targeted algorithms.

Filed in a California federal court, the complaint says that Meta has repeatedly misled the public about the substantial dangers of its platforms and contributed to a youth mental health crisis.

The case claims Meta is breaking consumer protection statutes and common law through 'unfair' and 'deceptive' practices. It seeks a variety of remedies against the social media giant, including large civil penalties.

Meta has refuted the claims, saying it is 'disappointed' that attorneys general have resorted to legal action 'instead of working productively with companies across the industry to create clear, age-appropriate standards for the many apps teens use'.

Thirty-three US states are suing Meta Platforms and its Instagram unit, accusing them of intentionally jeopardizing the mental health of children and teenagers for profit

The lawsuit alleges Mark Zuckerberg 's corporation has 'profoundly altered the psychological and social realities of a generation of young Americans' by 'ensnaring' them in addictive cycles (Pictured: Zuckerberg during a Meta event in Menlo Park, CA, last month)

Lawyers representing 33 states are suing Meta. Nine more states are expected to file similar lawsuits on Tuesday, bringing the total number to 42

The legal complaint alleges that Meta has 'harnessed powerful and unprecedented technologies to entice, engage, and ultimately ensnare youth and teens. Its motive is profit'.

It adds that the corporation 'designs and deploys features to capture young users' attention and prolong their time on its platforms', while 'falsely representing' that the apps are 'safe' for children and teens.

'Research has shown that young people's use of Meta's social media platforms is associated with depression, anxiety, insomnia, interference with education and daily life, and many other negative outcomes,' the document reads.

The lawsuit says Meta has conducted a four-pronged attack on young people, firstly by creating 'a business model focused on maximizing young users' time and attention spent on its platforms'.

Second, Meta 'designed and deployed harmful and psychologically manipulative product features to induce young users' compulsive and extended use'.

Third, it 'routinely publishing misleading reports boasting a deceptively low incidence of user harms',.

Finally, Meta is accused of 'refusing to abandon its use of known harmful features' against the guidance of 'overwhelming internal research and independent analysis' - instead redoubling efforts to 'misrepresent, conceal and downplay' the impact of features on youth mental health.

The lawsuit also alleges that Meta violated a law banning the collection of data on children under the age of 13.

It goes on to say that the firm is seeking to expand harmful practices into virtual reality, including Meta's Horizon Worlds platform as well as the communications apps WhatsApp and Messenger.

Filed in a California federal court (pictured), the complaint says that Meta, which also operates Facebook , has repeatedly misled the public about the substantial dangers of its platforms and contributed to a youth mental health crisis

The case claims Meta is breaking consumer protection statutes and common law through 'unfair' and 'deceptive' practices. It seeks a variety of remedies against the social media giant, including large civil penalties. Meta has refuted the claims

Lawyers are representing the states of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, and Missouri as plaintiffs.

They are joined by representatives for Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania. Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

Nine more states are expected to file similar lawsuits on Tuesday, bringing the total number to 42.

The Menlo Park, California company and other social media companies already face hundreds of lawsuits brought on behalf of children and school districts raising similar claims.

Much of the focus on Meta stems from the release of documents in 2021 that showed that Meta had data showing that Instagram, which began as a photo-sharing app, was addictive and worsens body image issues for some teen girls.
A son who beat his father to death after escaping from hospital was not psychotic, a mental health expert has told an inquest into his death.

Lung expert Dr Kim Harrison, 68, died after he was punched, kicked, stamped on and beaten with a broom handle by son Daniel Harrison, 38, in March 2022 after he fled from doctors who had sectioned him under the mental health act.

Day two of the inquest into Dr Harrison's death heard that in January 2021 Will Johnston, an approved mental health professional or 'Amhp', made a number of visits to Daniel Harrison to assess him.

Mr Johnston's conclusion from the visits was that there was 'no overt evidence' of any psychosis, and that Harrison was leading a 'more alternative lifestyle' than perhaps his parents had wished for him.

Giving evidence to the coroner Mr Johnston at Swansea's Guildhall courtroom said Harrison 'had presented stereotypically as someone who would be quite happy living in a teepee in west Wales'.

He added that had come across in their conversations as someone who was 'gentle, intelligent and considerate' and who was 'very passionate about his career and the environment'.

Daniel Harrison, 38, beat his retired father Dr Kim Harrison, 68, to death after escaping his psychiatric hospital

Dr Harrison died after he was punched, kicked, stamped on and beaten with a broom handle by his son after he fled from doctors at the the Neath Port Talbot Hospital (pictured) in Wales

The inquest heard that Daniel Harrison had a history of mental health issues going back as far as 2007, and for a prolonged period was on anti-psychotic medication and was engaging with mental health professionals.

However, from 2017 his mental health began to deteriorate and he started to suffer with bouts of paranoia, delusions, auditory hallucinations, and 'thought broadcasting' where he believed other people could hear his thoughts.

Over this time his family became increasingly concerned about his behaviour and welfare.

By late 2020 Harrison - who was a talented joiner and bespoke furniture maker - was living in his rented workshop on a farm, and his appearance was described as 'dishevelled' and it seemed he was not looking after his personal hygiene.

The court heard he was also becoming paranoid about his parents and was calling them 'fascists' and making allegations about them being involved in a Covid conspiracy.

Increasingly alarmed at his behaviour Mr and Mrs Harrison continued to try to get a mental health assessment for their son.

After visiting Daniel, the court heard that Dr Johnston formed the opinion that Harrison was living the way he was having made a 'capacitated free choice'

He concluded there were no grounds for seeking an application to detain him under the Mental Health Act.

The witness said he had spoken to Dr Kim Harrison before the visit and was aware of the family's concerns about their son but he said the issues the Harrisons were reporting to him were not ones he saw for himself.

Questioned by barrister Bridget Dolan KC for Mrs Harrison the witness confirmed he had not tried to speak to Harrison's GP Dr Richard Tristham, and was not aware that the doctor had, like Harrison's parents, requested a mental health assessment be done.

Asked if the fact that the GP's request had not been passed on to him meant 'the system was not safe' he replied: 'It seems reasonable to conclude that the system broke down on this occasion'.

Dr Harrison, a father of four and a renowned chest consultant, helped to set up the Respiratory Unit at Swanseas Morriston Hospital during a nearly 40-year long career in the NHS

The barrister put it to the witness that given Harrison's history, if he had obtained all the information that was available from Harrison's family, friends, and his GP, if he had not 'avoided asking difficult questions of Dan' during the meetings, and if he had not 'closed his mind' to other professional points of view then he 'should have known that Dan was having a relapse'.

The witness denied he had avoided asking difficult questions, saying felt the best chance of eliciting information from Harrison was by allowing him to 'tell his story' rather than 'firing questions' at him.

He also denied having closed his mind to other options and other professional points of view, and said the large amount of information supplied by Mr and Mrs Harrison had provided 'sufficient background to Dan'.

Mr Johnston told the inquest that his observation of Harrison 'did not match' the experiences being reported by the family.

He said: 'I was satisfied that Dan's expressed wishes about how he lived his life were not directly related to any acute psychotic episode.'

By March 2022 Harrison was being detained at Ward F at Neath Port Talbot Hospital when, on the morning of the 12th, he absconded from the unit by pushing past a member of staff who was using a swipe card to unlock a door.

He ran to Port Talbot bus station where he caught a taxi to Clydach before alighting at The Mond and then walking to his parents' detached house on the outskirts of the village.

Staff at the unit rang Harrison's mother, Jane, and told her he had left the hospital, and she and her husband responded by locking the doors and windows of their house.

A short while later their son arrived at the property and began banging on the kitchen door. Mrs Harrison went into another room to call 999 and while on the phone she heard her husband opening the back door to their son.

She returned to the kitchen to find her husband laying on the floor with catastrophic head and neck injuries and not breathing.

Mrs Harrison, like her husband a retired doctor, put the gravely-injured man in the recovery position and called 999. The casualty was rushed to hospital but could not be saved.

Meanwhile Harrison walked to Morriston and caught a bus to the centre of Swansea. After buying food he caught a train to London.

He was tracked down to a hotel in Paddington where he was arrested the following day by Met Police officers as he ran a bath.

Harrison pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility when he appeared at Swansea Crown Court in August 2022 and was made the subject of a hospital order.

The court heard that given the nature of his mental disorders it may never be safe to release him back into the community.

The inquest, which is expected to last two weeks, continues.
A British grandfather jailed in a Dubai prison despite claiming to be innocent is fortunate to be alive after another inmate strangled him with a telephone cord, his son has said.

Albert Douglas, 61, was trying to connect to his family from an Al Barsha prison phone when the inmate attacked him from behind.

Fearing Mr Douglas was having a stroke, call operators immediately phoned his son Wolfgang in the UK, alerting him to his father's situation.

Holding back tears, 36-year-old Wolfgang told The Sun that his father's attacker 'tried their best to strangle him to death.'

He added: 'They called me straight away and said they think he's having a stroke because he's gargling. He wasn't, he was being strangled to death. He is just a frail old man. He is totally and utterly finished now.'

Albert Douglas, 61, was trying to connect to his family from a Al Barsha prison phone in the UAE when the 'crazed inmate' attacked him from behind

Albert managed to fight his attacker off and was rushed to hospital.

However, he was then thrown into an isolation room without light or fresh air for a month, where his son says he developed scabies.

The Douglas family believe that the inmate - who used the metal cord attached to the prison phone to strangle Albert - carried out the October attack out of jealousy.

Wolfgang told the publication that Albert regularly rings his relatives, and that Wolfgang has to pay 130 for every 30 minutes he spends on the phone to his father.

The high cost means that many other inmates cannot afford to make calls.

Albert, who hails from London, has in the past described conditions in the maximum security prison as 'medieval' and 'demonic'.

He once lived a luxurious lifestyle in Dubai's Palm Islands, driving around in a Rolls Royce with 'tens of millions' in the bank.

However, his life came crashing down in 2019 when he was arrested and ordered to pay a 2.5million fine after his son's flooring company - which the grandfather has no association with - amassed debts it could not pay back.

According to Detained in Dubai - an organisation that helps people facing legal troubles in the United Arab Emirates - Albert was arrested over a bounced cheque he did not write.

Under Dubai law anyone linked to a company that owes money can be found liable for their debts - and family members are often pursued for payments.

Because his son was back in Britain when the company got into trouble, creditors took Mr Douglas to court and won a judgement against him instead.

Mr Douglas with his son Wolfgang (left) and his two grandkids. He was arrested in September 2019, after a court found him liable for his son's debts and imposed a three-year sentence

This was despite forensic tests proving the cheque was not his. The 61-year-old was also hit by what he and his lawyers say were trumped-up charges.

He maintains his innocence to this day, and has spent more than 1 million in the courts to clear his name, which to this day has been in vain.

Wolfgang said that in October, a further minimum 'five additional years' were added to his father's sentence by Dubai authorities.

The 36-year-old told The Sun that while his father 'will never cry [...] He is totally and utterly done, he has mentally almost given up.

'This is just horrifying. Everyday he rings you, you just feel like you're being sick inside. 'In five years they'll just add more, for what?' he asked.

Mr Douglas and his wife Naomi emigrated to Dubai in 2003, where he built up a successful business called Alomni Flooring, specialising in real wood floors.

During the massive property boom in the United Arab Emirates, as hotels and holiday homes transformed the country into a top tourist destination, his company thrived.

The father of four lived a luxury lifestyle and persuaded his eldest son Wolfgang to move to Dubai from his home in London.

Wolfgang started the company TimberWolf and his father was one of the signatories on the business. The business relationship ended in 2018 when Albert gave up any involvement.

According to Detained in Dubai - an organisation that helps people facing legal troubles in the United Arab Emirates - Albert (right) was arrested over a bounced cheque he did not write

'I lost everything, the lot's gone,' Albert said in 2021 after his detention. 'Bank accounts, frozen. Stock, gone. Warehouse, ransacked.'

That year, he also urged MPs to hear his pleas to do something about his dire situation and other British people facing horrific conditions in jail in the UAE.

He said: 'I just don't want other people to end up in the same situation. Just do something, try. Not just for my sake.

'People haven't got a chance. They have crimes and they need people to be held and found guilty for those crimes to say all crimes have been solved.'
Sushi lovers may now have another reason to gobble up more of their favorite Japanese dishes.

A new study from Tohoku University in Sendai, Miyagi, Japan, has indicated that an unlikely spicy green sushi topping can improve your short and long-term memory.

The zesty sauce - Wasabi - is a fresh green paste included in many store-bought and in-restaurant sushi dishes.

And, according to the study published on October 30, the topping provides anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties - as well as helping improve your memory.

Sushi is served with a popular topping called wasabi, which according to research could improve ones short-term and long-term health

The research was published on October 30 and conducted by Rui Nouchi, Natasha Y.S. Kawata, Toshiki Saito, Haruka Nouchi, and Ryuta Kawashima.

Rui Nouchi is an associate professor at Tohoku University's Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer in Sendai, Miyagi, Japan

Associate professor Rui Nouchi of Tohoku University's Institute of Development, Aging, and Cancer believes the memory improvement of adults who participated in the study was 'really substantial.'

The other researchers who received credit for the finalized study were Natasha Y.S. Kawata, Toshiki Saito, Haruka Nouchi, and Ryuta Kawashima.

Each researcher observed 72 healthy adults aged over 60. Some were given a placebo and others a supplement with 6-MSITC in it.

The 6-MSITIC bioactive compound found in wasabi includes anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredients - that may also contribute to a better memory.

'These functions are important for increasing cognitive functions in older adults,' the study authors wrote.

The study conducted by Nouchi and the other researchers included 72 adult participants that were in good health

The study published in the scientific journal Nutrient measured the executive function, episodic memory, working memory, and attention, and processing speed before and after the experiment.

The whole experiment lasted for 12 weeks.

The 6-MSITC supplement consumed by the participants improved their episodic memories, which involved learning, storing, and retrieving information about personal experiences.

The bioactive compound increased the participant's episode memories by an incredible 18 percent - and they scored 14 percent higher than participants who were given the placebo instead.

The 100 mg wasabi extract supplement given to participants was fresh from the roots of the Wasabia japonica plant in Japan.

All of the researchers believe that the extract lowered the oxidants and inflammation levels in the hippocampus, which plays a major role in learning and memory.

The extract may have been what benefited the participants due to the ingredients helping the brain region that plays a role in learning and memory

Despite wasabi being the sushi topping that will boost one's memory, foodies who aren't fans of spicy sauces can enjoy other treats that may work just as well.

According to the New York Post, other foods that can boost your memory include red wine, tea, dark chocolate, banes, cherries, and blackberries.

The foods and drinks mentioned above contain flavanols - a compound linked to better short-term memory that is found in cocoa, grapes, and teas.

Researchers found flavanols contribute to short term memories after they conducted a study in May with over 3,500 participants.

They observed the memories of all participants who consumed a placebo or 500 mg flavanol supplement daily for three long years.

The research subjects who hardly ate any foods with flavanols before the experiment had an incredible memory improvement within a year.

The flavanol study was led by Scott Small MD, Professor of Neurology at Columbia University published by Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences via the University of Reading and is not connected to the research in Japan.
Rishi Sunak's desperate efforts to revive the Rwanda policy dramatically blew up in his face tonight as immigration minister Robert Jenrick quit.

In an extraordinary meltdown, Mr Jenrick walked out of the Cabinet just hours after the PM published emergency legislation - declaring that it would fail.

Mr Sunak tried to front up the setback this evening, writing a letter to Mr Jenrick saying the Bill was the 'toughest ever put forward by a UK government'. He also argued that Rwanda would have 'collapsed' the entire scheme if international human rights law had been struck out.

'There would be no point in passing a law that would leave us with nowhere to send people to,' the premier said.

However, the exit of an MP who was one of his staunchest allies is a shattering blow for Mr Sunak, with fears it could spark an all-out revolt by the Conservative right.

Just this afternoon former Home Secretary Suella Braverman effectively laid out her pitch for the leadership in a bombshell personal statement to the Commons, warning that the party faces 'electoral oblivion' unless it gets tougher on borders.

Immigration minister Robert Jenrick (right) quit tonight as the Tory Right attacked Rishi Sunak's (left) 'fatally flawed' new plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda

In his resignation letter to Mr Sunak, Mr Jenrick wrote: 'I cannot continue in my position when I have such strong disagreements with the direction of the Government's policy on immigration'

The current Home Secretary James Cleverly was left floundering in the House this evening as he laid out detail of the new Bill, but was repeatedly grilled on whether Mr Jenrick had resigned.

The legislation would instruct courts to treat Rwanda as a 'safe' country, with ministers hoping that - alongside a new treaty with the African nation - can convince the Supreme Court to allow flights to go ahead. Judges ruled last month that the safety of Channel migrants sent to Rwanda could not be guaranteed.

However, Ms Braverman immediately insisted the measures were not enough because they would not disapply European human rights rules.

In his resignation letter to Mr Sunak, Mr Jenrick made clear he agreed with his former boss.

'I cannot continue in my position when I have such strong disagreements with the direction of the Government's policy on immigration,' he wrote.

He added he was 'unable to take the currently proposed legislation through the Commons as I do not believe it provides us with the best possible chance of success'.

Mr Jenrick claimed the legislation being offered by the PM was a 'triumph of hope over experience'.

Rumours quickly began sweeping Westminster about no-confidence letters being sent to the powerful 1922 Committee - which Mr Sunak only addressed at 5pm this evening.

Former education minister Dame Andrea Jenkyns, a fierce critic of the PM, claimed Mr Jenrick's resignation 'may be the death knell' for Mr Sunak's premiership.

Asked about the prospect of a leadership challenge, one ex-Cabinet minister told MailOnline wryly: 'This is the Tory party...'

Another MP said Mr Sunak had 'big problems'. But a veteran backbencher bemoaned that the party 'just looks a mess' and dismissed the chances of a leadership challenge. 'I don't think anything like that is going to happen as there is no coalescing behind one position,' they said.

Mr Sunak tried to front up the setback this evening, writing a letter to Mr Jenrick saying the Bill was the 'toughest ever put forward by a UK government '. He also argued that Rwanda would have 'collapsed' the entire scheme if it had broken international law

Humiliatingly for Home Secretary James Cleverly the announcement came as he was making a statement on the emergency legislation

Tory former education minister Dame Andrea Jenkyns, a fierce critic of the PM, claimed Mr Jenrick's resignation 'may be the death knell' for Mr Sunak's premiership

The latest bout of Tory civil war saw backbenchers despair at the PM's failure to take the most hardline options to get the asylum scheme up and running.

Mr Sunak seems to have appeased Conservative moderates, with the One Nation group of MPs welcoming his decision 'to continue to meet the UK's international commitments, which uphold the rule of law'.

The Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill published this afternoon will seek to 'disapply' parts of the 1998 Human Rights Act in a bid to ensure flights take off before the next general election.

It will also reinforce the power of ministers to ignore rulings made by European Court of Human Rights judges.

But it stops short of pulling out of the jurisdiction of the Strasbourg court. It also retains provisions for some migrants to legally challenge their deportation to Rwanda.

The action is part of Mr Sunak's twin-track approach to manoeuvring around last month's devastating ruling by the Supreme Court that the Rwanda scheme is unlawful.

As well as the emergency legislation, the PM has also struck a new treaty with the African country.

Mr Jenrick was notably absent from the Commons as Mr Cleverly made a statement on the emergency legislation this evening.

In farcical scenes, Home Office minister Laura Farris then confirmed live on LBC radio that Mr Jenrick had resigned. That was soon followed by confirmation from Mr Cleverly under repeated questioning in the Commons.

Finally, Mr Jenrick posted his resignation letter on the X social media site, saying the small boats crisis was doing 'untold damage' to the country and the Government needed to place 'national interests over highly contested interpretations of international law'.

'In our discussions on the proposed emergency legislation you have moved towards my position, for which I am grateful,' he said.

'Nevertheless. I am unable to take the currently proposed legislation through the Commons as I do not believe it provides us with the best possible chance of success.

'A Bill of the kind you are proposing is a triumph of hope over experience. The stakes for the country are too high for us not to pursue the stronger protections required to end the merry-go-round of legal challenges which risk paralysing the scheme and negating its intended deterrent.'

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak speaking during Prime Ministers' Questions (PMQs) in the House of Commons, in London, on December 6

Mr Sunak thanked the outgoing minister, who has seemed ill at ease for weeks, for his 'hard work' and helping to 'cut boat crossings by more than a third'.

'Your resignation is disappointing given we both agree on the ends, getting flights off to Rwanda so that we can stop the boats. I fear that your departure is based on a fundamental misunderstanding of the situation. It is our experience that gives us confidence that this will work,' the PM said.

'Our returns deal with Albania, that you were instrumental in securing, has cut Albanian arrivals by ninety per cent. These Albanian arrivals have far more recourse to the courts than people will under this new legislation. But we have still succeeded in returning 5,000 illegal migrants this year and cutting the numbers dramatically because it has shown that if you come here illegally, you will not be able to stay.

'This bill is the toughest piece of illegal migration legislation ever put forward by a UK Government.

'It makes clear that Parliament deems Rwanda safe and no court can second guess that, it disapplies the relevant parts of the human rights act and makes clear that it is for Ministers to decide whether or not to comply with any temporary injunctions issued by the European Court of Human Rights.

'If we were to oust the courts entirely, we would collapse the entire scheme.

'The Rwandan Government have been clear that they would not accept the UK basing this scheme on legislation that could be considered in breach of our international law obligations.

'There would be no point in passing a law that would leave us with nowhere to send people to.'

In a statement, Rwanda's foreign affairs minister Vincent Biruta stressed the need for the UK's legislation to comply with international law.

'It has always been important to both Rwanda and the UK that our rule of law partnership meets the highest standards of international law, and it places obligations on both the UK and Rwanda to act lawfully.

'Without lawful behaviour by the UK, Rwanda would not be able to continue with the Migration and Economic Development Partnership.'

A boat carrying around 50 migrants drifts into English waters back in August (file image)

Ms Braverman, earlier lambasted the PM's emergency legislation, with a source saying it 'doesn't come close' to meeting her tests for it to be effective.

A source close to Mrs Braverman said: 'The PM has kept the ability for every single illegal migrant to make individual human rights claims against their removal and to then appeal those claims if they don't succeed at first.

'It is fatally flawed. It will be bogged down in the courts for months and months. And it won't stop the boats. It is a further betrayal of Tory voters and the decent patriotic majority who want to see this insanity brought to an end.'

Mr Sunak met Tory MPs behind closed doors for 45 minutes tonight in a bid to win them over.

Ex-Cabinet minister Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, as he made his way to the 1922 Committee meeting with the PM, said 'on initial reading' the Bill is 'encouraging'.

'It has the notwithstanding clause in it - that's good. But we are waiting for the legal advice,' he said.

After the meeting Bracknell MP James Sunderland said the PM was 'magnificent' and showed 'leadership, vision and clarity'.

Asked if the Bill would break international law, Mr Sunderland replied: 'Wait and see. I don't think so - I'm not a lawyer.'

Fellow MP Kelly Tolhurst said of the PM: 'He's convinced me.'

Former minister Paul Scully said that his party colleagues were 'happy' with the draft Rwanda legislation.

Just this afternoon former Home Secretary Suella Braverman effectively laid out her pitch for the leadership in a bombshell personal statement to the Commons, warning that the party faces 'electoral oblivion' unless it gets tougher on borders

He said the PM's message was 'this is it' when it comes to the Bill and that 'we have to get this through'.

Mr Scully said Mr Sunak discussed a number of issues key to the next election, but stressed that stopping the boats had been a 'pledge' that he was 'determined' to achieve.

In a statement, the One Nation group of Tory MPs said: 'We welcome the Government's decision to continue to meet the UK's international commitments which uphold the rule of law.

'We will be taking legal advice from the former Solicitor-General Lord Garnier about concerns and the practicalities of the Bill.'

However, other MPs raised concerns in the Commons about how the Bill would break the logjam.

A new law published this afternoon will seek to 'disapply' parts of the 1998 Human Rights Act in a bid to ensure flights take off before the next general election

Channel migrants are brought ashore in Kent over the weekend

Mr Jenrick was previously one of the PM's staunchest allies, having backed him during his first leadership bid in July 2022

In his statement to the Commons tonight, Mr Cleverly said the emergency legislation stating that Rwanda is a safe country will prevent courts from 'second-guessing' the will of Parliament.

'Given the Supreme Court's judgment, we cannot be confident that courts will respect the new treaty on its own,' the Home Secretary told MPs.

'So today, the Government has published emergency legislation to make unambiguously clear that Rwanda is a safe country and to prevent the courts from second-guessing Parliament's will.

DAILY MAIL COMMENT Don't ministers understand how heartily sick the public are of their endless self-indulgent posturing? The only person these histrionics help is Keir Starmer, the ocean-going dud who too many Tory MPs seem hellbent on making look statesman-like and electable. Advertisement

'We will introduce legislation tomorrow in the form of the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill to give effect to the judgment of Parliament that Rwanda is a safe country, not withstanding UK law or any interpretation of international law.'

Labour MP Mike Kane could be heard shouting 'Where is the minister?' from the backbenches, as Mr Jenrick appeared not to be present for Mr Cleverly's statement.

The PM earlier said the legislation will ensure the Government's flagship asylum scheme 'cannot be stopped'.

After the Supreme Court last month ruled the Rwanda plan to be unlawful, Mr Sunak had been left walking a tightrope between warring wings of his party over whether to waive human rights rules to get the deportation flights in the air.

Thee emergency legislation, published this afternoon, seems closer to the 'semi-skimmed' option favoured by Tory moderates.

Rwanda's foreign affairs minister Vincent Biruta stressed the need for the UK's legislation to comply with international law.

He said: 'It has always been important to both Rwanda and the UK that our rule of law partnership meets the highest standards of international law, and it places obligations on both the UK and Rwanda to act lawfully.

'Without lawful behaviour by the UK, Rwanda would not be able to continue with the Migration and Economic Development Partnership.'

This afternoon, Mrs Braverman took the rarely-used opportunity to give a resignation statement to MPs to issue an apocalyptic warning about the impact of the small boats crisis on Tory electoral chances.

Robert Jenrick posted his resignation letter on the X social media site, saying the small boats crisis was doing 'untold damage' to the country

Flanked by leading figures on the Tory Right, including ex-PM Liz Truss, she said the PM's new law must include a 'nothwithstanding clause' that would allow human rights laws to be sidestepped on asylum cases.

She also advocated for the creation of makeshift detention facilities along the lines of the Covid-era Nightingale Hospitals to house arrivals before they are sent to Rwanda. And Mrs Braverman said MPs should sit over Christmas to get the law passed as soon as possible.

She asked: 'All of this comes down to a simple question: who governs Britain? Where does ultimate authority in the UK sit? Is it with the British people and their elected representatives in Parliament? Or is it in the vague, shifting and unaccountable concept of ''international law''?'

Braverman's five-point plan for immigration Rwanda bill must overcome Supreme Court ruling about the safety of Rwanda as a place to send refugees

'Notwithstanding clause' must 'block off' human rights objections to flights

Removal of Channel boat arrivals 'within days', and no legal challenges

Administrative detention of migrants until they are sent to Rwanda

Parliament to sits over Christmas to get bill into law Advertisement

'It is now or never. The Conservative Party faces electoral oblivion in a matter of months if we introduce yet another Bill destined to fail. Do we fight for sovereignty or let our party die? I refuse to sit by and allow the trust that millions of people have put in us be discarded like an inconvenient detail.'

Mrs Braverman said that while she backs the UK quitting the European Convention on Human Rights, she accepted the Government did not - and that it was 'not the only way to cut the Gordian Knot'.

She unveiled her own five-point plan, which included the bill containing a 'notwithstanding clause' allowing the 'the Human Rights Act, the European Convention on Human Rights, the Refugee Convention, and all other international law' to be over-ridden.

Mr Sunak defended the plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda as Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer mocked it as a costly 'gimmick' which is not making progress.

Coming under pressure over the plan at Prime Minister's Questions, Mr Sunak said the new Rwanda treaty is about addressing the concerns of the Supreme Court.

'We will do everything it takes to get this scheme working so that we can indeed stop the boats and that's why this week we have signed a new legally-binding treaty with Rwanda which together with new legislation will address all the concerns that have been raised,' he said.

'Because everyone should be in no doubt about our absolute commitment to stop the boats and get flights off.'

Mr Sunak said 'deterrence is critical' before criticising Labour for pledging to scrap the scheme, adding: 'Once again instead of being on the side of the British people, he finds himself on the side of the people smugglers.'

Tory moderates said last night that they have received 'assurances' the PM would not proceed with the most radical option for resolving the stand-off with the Supreme Court over the flagship Rwanda scheme.

Mr Sunak had been examining a so-called 'full-fat' plan that would carve out the Rwanda scheme from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), as advocated by many on the Tory Right.

Instead Mr Sunak was thought to be leaning towards a 'semi-skimmed' version of the legislation which could override the UK's Human Rights Act but not the ECHR. This could limit legal challenges but leave open a right of appeal to Strasbourg.

A 'skimmed' version of the deal would simply see Parliament declare that, in the light of the new treaty signed with Rwanda yesterday, the African nation is a safe country to send migrants.

Mr Sunak is understood to have been influenced by Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron, who ignored ECHR rulings on prisoner voting for years without leaving it.

Suella Braverman used a resignation statement to MPs to issue an apocalyptic warning about the impact of the small boats crisis on Tory electoral chances

The former prime minister told peers yesterday: 'There are occasions when the ECHR makes judgments as they did on the issue of prisoner votes when they said that it was absolutely essential that we legislated to give prisons the vote.

'And I said I didn't think that was the case, I think that should be settled by Houses of Parliament, and the ECHR backed down. So that sort of flexibility may well be necessary in the future.'

Damian Green, who served as Theresa May's deputy, said overriding the ECHR would be 'the wrong thing to do' and make it 'pretty much impossible' to get the legislation through the House of Lords.

Mr Green said the Government should 'think twice' before trying to limit the application of the ECHR or the Human Rights Act.

Home Secretary James Cleverly was in Rwanda yesterday to seal a new treaty with his counterpart Vincent Biruta

Tory whips had warned as many as ten ministers could resign if the Government tries to override the ECHR, including Attorney General Victoria Prentis and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk.

But MPs on the Tory Right signalled they would continue to press for a 'full fat' option.

Dozens are said to be ready to back an amendment to the legislation on the ECHR if Mr Sunak drops the plan.

Mark Francois, of the European Research Group of Tory MPs, said the group's lawyers would look for 'unambiguous wording' in the new plan that will ensure deportation flights can take place next year before backing it.
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. continued to defend himself Wednesday after admitting he twice traveled on pedophile Jeffrey Epstein's plane  saying he never went to the 'infamous island' in the Caribbean where Epstein flew underage victims.

Kennedy, who is running for the White House as an independent after leaving the party of his father and uncle, said he had family along for both excursions. He posted about his journeys on X, hours after he made the stunning disclosure during an interview on Fox News.

He then accused other unnamed individuals who flew on the corporate jet of having something to hide.

'Yes, I was on #JeffreyEpsteins plane twice, in the early 90s. Each time with my wife and kids. Neither time to his infamous island. All Epstein & Maxwell flight logs and client lists should be released. Im not hiding anything, but they are!' he wrote. He ended his post with the hashtag '#EpsteinClientList'  underlining his call to disclose more information shortly after sharing new details of his subsidized jet-setting.

Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said Tuesday night that he'd flown twice on pedophile Jeffrey Epstein's private jet and that his ex-wife was friendly with his infamous madam Ghislaine Maxwell

He was referring to the Island of Little St. James that Epstein owned. Epstein's death in prison in 2019 was ruled a suicide.

Kennedy is one of the many boldface names who appeared on a list in 2021 of people who had traveled on Epstein's 727, dubbed the 'Lolita Express.'

His disclosure came weeks after a spokesperson told Newsweek that Kennedy had taken a single trip aboard the aircraft.

The spokesperson at the time said he had 'flown one time on Jeffrey Epstein's private plane. It was in 1993 from [New York City] to Palm Beach [Florida] to visit RFK Jr.'s mom for Easter.' That is one of the two trips Kennedy described on Fox. The second was for a weekend 'fossil hunting' trip, he said.

A Kennedy spokesperson said on Wednesday that he flew twice on the private plane  and called to reveal the identities of those who may have enabled his crimes.

'Mr. Kennedy adds his voice to those demanding clarity about all of Mr. Epstein's nefarious activities including the identities of powerful partners or shady entities who may have enabled or participated in his crimes. Mr. Kennedy supports the release of Epsteins business and personal records including unredacted flight logs, which might contribute to the publics understanding of Mr. Epsteins sexual abuse of minors and his suspicious death,' said the spokesperson.

RFK, Jr. said Tuesday night that he'd flown twice on pedophile Jeffrey Epstein's private jet and that his ex-wife was friendly with his infamous madam Ghislaine Maxwell.

'I was on Jeffrey Epstein's jet two times,' he said, adding that his ex-wife - the late Mary Richardson Kennedy (pictured right), who died by suicide in 2012 - had 'some kind of relationship with Ghislaine Maxwell'

Kennedy claims that he's been 'very open' about this from the beginning of his campaign and said this was long before Epstein became known for his multitude of sex crimes

Kennedy, a prominent anti-vaxxer, first announced a White House run in April - saying then that he planned to challenge President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination. In September, he announced plans to run as an independent instead.

Speaking to Jesse Watters on Tuesday, he admitted his allegedly brief connections to Epstein, a pedophile with extraordinary power and influence that has connected him to politicians in both parties, including former presidents Bill Clinton and Donald Trump.

Watters was discussing testimony that day in Washington from FBI Director Christopher Wray, who took questions about Epstein and segued into asking Kennedy if he'd ever been on Epstein's jet.

'I was on Jeffrey Epstein's jet two times,' he replied, adding that his ex-wife - the late Mary Richardson Kennedy, who died by suicide in 2012 - had 'some kind of relationship with Ghislaine Maxwell.'

'I was on it in 1993, and I was on it in and I went to Florida with my wife and two children to visit my mom over Easter [inaudible],' he said.

Kennedy also claimed, with little explanation, that at one point he'd gone 'fossil hunting' in South Dakota with the notorious pedophile.

'And my wife had some kind of relationship with Ghislaine Maxwell and they offered us a ride to Palm Beach. I went then, and another occasion, I flew again with my family with, I think, four of my children.'

He claims that he's been 'very open' about this from the beginning of his campaign and said this was long before Epstein became known for his multitude of sex crimes.

'It was before anybody knew about Jeffrey Epstein's, you know, nefarious issues. And I agree with you that all of this information should be released.'

He continued to try and talk tough about the records regarding Epstein's connections to power.

'We should get real answers on what happened to Jeffrey Epstein and any of the high-level political people that he was involved with. All of that should be open to the public.'

When asked about the relationship between his ex-wife - who hanged herself in her New York home over a decade ago - a spokesperson clarified to Newsweek.

Kennedy seen with ex-wife Mary in a photo with his now-current wife, actress Cheryl Hines (pictured right)

'Mary, Kennedy's wife, and two of their kids were on the flight,' the representative said. 'Mary knew Epstein's girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell, who learned that they were going to Palm Beach for Easter and offered their family a ride.'

In October, alongside his current actress wife Cheryl Hines, Kennedy announced that he wanted independence from the two political parties.

'I'm here to declare myself an independent candidate,' he said in front of several hundred supporters, whose cheers broke up his announcement. 'Candidate for president of the United States of America.'

In a speech delivered steps away from Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Kennedy said he did not come to the decision 'lightly'.

He said: 'It's very painful for me to let go of the party of my uncles, my father, my grandfather and both of my great-grandfathers.'

Four members of his family - siblings Rory, Kerry, Joseph P. Kennedy II and Kathleen Kennedy Townsend - issued a joint statement saying they were against his independent bid, calling the move 'dangerous' and 'deeply saddening.'

Maxwell, who is now serving time for her role in Epstein's sex abuse ring, is shown in a court rendering

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced an independent presidential bid steps away from Independence Hall in Philadelphia

Actress Cheryl Hines introduces her husband Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who announced an independent presidential bid from Philadelphia

'The decision of our brother Bobby to run as a third party candidate against Joe Biden is dangerous to our country,' the statement said. 'Bobby might share the same name as our father, but he does not share the same values, vision or judgment. Today's announcement is deeply saddening for us. We denounce his candidacy and believe it to be perilous for our country.'

Kennedy is the son of the late Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1968, and the nephew of the late President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963.

One supporter brought a hand-drawn sign that read, 'I want Camelot!' a reference to the nickname for President John F. Kennedy's administration.
In a new affidavit, a neighbor claimed they heard her shout: 'Jeremy stop it, you have a baby!'

A pregnant Idaho mother frantically pleaded with her husband to calm down before he allegedly shot and killed her, according to court documents.

Prosecutors say Kali Jean Randall, 38, was murdered by her husband Jeremy Albert Best, 48, inside their home in Victor, Idaho, on Thursday.

In a new affidavit filed this week, details of a 911 call made from inside the family's home revealed Randall's final moments.

According to the affidavit, a woman's voice can be heard yelling on the other end of the line: 'Jeremy! Jeremy, no.'

The documents claim that a male voice is then heard, repeatedly shouting 'yes' in response before yelling: 'Get the f**k back, you're gonna get shot!'

Prosecutors say Kali Jean Randall, 38, was murdered by her husband Jeremy Albert Best, 48, inside their home in Victor, Idaho, the couple are seen here together with their three dogs

Best, seen here in his mugshot, is accused of killing Randall and kidnapping their infant son Zeke

The male voice is then heard repeating, 'I love you, I love you, I love you,' before the call ends.

Following this frantic call, a deputy from Teton County Sheriff's Office was dispatched to the home to check on the caller.

A neighbor, identified by KTVB as Timothy Auchampach, told the deputy that prior to the officer arriving he had heard the couple fighting.

Auchampach told the deputy that he heard Randall yell: 'Jeremy stop it, you have a baby!'

The deputy then found Randall dead inside the family home that she shared with Best and their son Zeke, who was then reported missing.

According to the affidavit, officers also found a broken cell phone, a leather pistol holder and a black revolver at the scene.

This resulted in a manhunt for Best and his son, who is ten months old, which ended when a group of hunters discovered Best in a sleeping bag 60 miles from home.

According to the person who called officers, Best was 'naked and making odd statements'.

Ten-month-old baby Zeke Best was allegedly abducted by his father on Thursday, and was tragically found dead by the side of a road on Saturday near to his father, who was alive

A neighbor, identified by KTVB as Timothy Auchampach, told the deputy that prior to the officer arriving he had heard the couple fighting

Bonneville County Sheriff deputies then rushed to the scene and identified Best before they placed him in a patrol car until medics arrived to treat him for any injuries.

His black Chevrolet was found down a nearby embankment off the roadway where deputies soon found the 10-month-old's body. No cause of death has been released.

On Monday, Best appeared in court over Zoom from Bonneville County Jail where he was seen shirtless with his head in his hands.

He was formally charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the deaths of his wife and unborn child.

Best was also charged with one count of using a firearm during the crime, it remains unclear if he will face additional charges relating to the death of his son Zeke.

It also emerged last week that just 24 hours prior to the shooting at their home, Best had been spotted walking through a general store naked.

He can be seen in the video with a cigarette in his mouth as he slouched over the store's counter next to the cash register.

Deputies with Bonneville County Sheriff's Office responded to the store and identified Best.

Jeremy Albert Best appeared in court topless with his head in his hand (pictured) on Monday for his arraignment where he was charged with two counts of first-degree murder

Best was seen walking through a Swan Valley General store naked on Thursday before the alleged homicide of his wife

He was evaluated by EMS teams outside the store and was taken to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center over mental health concerns.

It remains unclear what happened at the hospital, but a spokesperson confirmed that Best was discharged on Thursday afternoon.

Randall's cousin, Meg Fischer, released a statement on behalf of her family thanking friends for their support amid horrific circumstances.

'We thank all of you for walking with us during this time,' Fischer said in a message sent to East Idaho News.

'Our Zeke is now at rest with his loving mama and unborn sibling. The pain we feel is unimaginable and we thank everyone for their support.

'You will never know how you have lifted our family up during this time. As this is an ongoing investigation, we ask for privacy as we take time to process and grieve.'

Zeke was born at the end of January - according to Randell's social media. The two are seen in this picture

Fischer previously said she was 'shattered' to learn that Randall had also been expecting her second child at the time of her death.

Paying tribute to her cousin, Fischer added: 'She was a beautiful and free spirit.

'She was called to the mountains and made her home there. She was a lover of animals, especially her dogs.

'Motherhood was her greatest joy and we assume she gave her life protecting her children. We love her endlessly.'

During his arraignment on Monday, the defense requested a mental competency test be conducted on Best from the Department of Health and Welfare.

He is currently being held in the Bonneville County Jail without bond and a preliminary hearing has been scheduled for December 18 at 9.30am.
The family of a toddler who fell to his death from a seventh-floor flat have hit out at the council's offer of posting safety leaflets as the 'bare minimum'.

One-year-old Exodus Eyob fell from a high-rise tower block in Saville Green, Leeds, after going into his older sister's bedroom and climbing on her bed, which was under the window.

His mother Birikti Berihew claimed she had repeatedly asked Leeds City Council for a cable lock like one she had seen in a neighbour's flat.

The inquest heard key-controlled cable locks, which restrict how far a window can open, were given to residents as part of a one-off campaign in 2011 following the death of a six-year-old boy at another tower block in the area.

The coroner said 'additional window locks are not the answer' but the family still believe it would have prevented the 'adorable' baby's death.

They expected a similar campaign to the one in 2011 to be put in place after his death, but instead Leeds City Council promised to post 'window safety leaflets'.

Exodus Eyob, 22 months, (pictured) died in a tragic accident in July last year

The baby boy died after falling from a window on the seventh floor of the Saville Green block

Mother Birikti Berihew said she asked Leeds City Council to fit a second safety device on the window. Pictured: The tower block from which Exodus fell

On Wednesday, a coroner found that Exodus fell 'while unsupervised for several minutes at a time when a window was open'.

The toddler was described as being big for his age and able to climb on to furniture.

Senior coroner Kevin McLoughlin recorded a conclusion of accidental death and declined to make a prevention of future deaths report.

READ MORE: Seventh floor bedroom window where toddler plunged to his death had been reported unsafe by his mother, inquest hears Advertisement

He and his brother were said to have been banned from sister Reem Semere's bedroom as the window was positioned over the bed and could easily be pushed open, even when the safety device was engaged.

The inquest at Wakefield Coroner's Court heard the windows in the flat had a key locking system and restrictors on the hinge which stopped them from being opened more than a few inches, but that these had been 'voluntarily and deliberately disengaged' at some point before Exodus's death on July 2 2022.

Mr McLoughlin said that 'additional window locks are not the answer' and the cable lock would only have 'duplicated' the two safety features that were already installed on the window.

He said: 'One painful lesson which I hope will be drawn to the attention of people living with children in properties of any height is that window restrictors are there for a purpose .

'It is important not to override restrictors except under controlled conditions for a brief period of time to clean the outside surface.'

The coroner also said it was necessary to have 'a strict system to ensure a window is never left open at a time when a small child could gain access to it unsupervised'.

After the inquest, Exodus's sister Reem Semere, 19, said she still believed that a cable lock would have prevented her 'adorable' brother's death.

Ms Berihew rushed down and found her son unconscious with blood pouring from his nose

She told reporters: 'We hoped there would be a campaign or measure put in place after my baby brother's death, but instead in the inquest Leeds City Council has said that they are going to send window safety leaflets to residents.

'I think we can all agree that this is the absolute bare minimum and extremely ineffective in preventing any future deaths as the risk still remains.

'We feel that the benefits of a permanent restrictor have been misunderstood and we maintain that a permanent restrictor should be fitted to all high rise tower blocks housing children or people with disabilities.

'People might not read the leaflets, some people can't speak English properly, they might not even see it.'

Speaking through a Tigrinya interpreter, Ms Berihew told the inquest she raised concerns about window safety 'many times' to the council but agreed that the language barrier may have been an issue.

The inquest heard Leeds City Council only had a record of Ms Berihew complaining about the flat windows once.

Exodus, who was 22 months old at the time, was described as a healthy, sturdy toddler who was big for his age and could climb on furniture.

Ms Semere told the hearing that her brothers were not allowed in her bedroom because the only place for the bed was under the window, and that she would lock the room when she went out.

The inquest heard that on the day of Exodus's death, Ms Semere left her bedroom at about 1pm.

She told the hearing she had opened the window 'about six inches' the night before because it was hot, and had not closed it before leaving the room.

Ms Semere said she went into the living room to hug her brothers before going to the kitchen to greet her mother and to the bathroom to brush her teeth, and saw that Exodus was missing when she returned.

The inquest heard Ms Berihew and Ms Semere searched the flat for him, and went into Ms Semere's unlocked room to find the window 'more open than it had been'.

Ms Semere said her mother started screaming when she leaned out of the window and saw Exodus lying on the ground below.

'I looked out of the window and saw Exodus on the ground below the window,' Ms Berithew told the inquest.

She rushed down and found him unconscious with blood pouring from his nose and mouth.

Ms Semere, 21, dialled 999 as Ms Berihew cradled her son, screaming hysterically.

The toddler was rushed to hospital where he was pronounced dead from multiple injuries.

Ms Berihew, who had been a tenant in the council flat for 12 years and lived there with her three children, said she had repeatedly complained about the safety device being inadequate.

'At times, if you pushed the window it would open wide, and the push would override the restrictor,' she said.

She had also asked to be moved from the seventh floor flat to the ground floor, but the council said there was no such housing available.

The inquest heard cables were fitted to some neighbours' windows on November 17 2020 as a second safety device, and despite phoning the council that day to request the work be carried out in her flat, it never was.

Ms Berihew told of her frustration at dealing with the authorities over the safety issue.

She said: 'Whenever I got the opportunity I would go in person to the office and asked many times. I complained several times about the safety of the windows.'

Following the tragedy the windows were checked by an inspector and found to be satisfactorily safe, but the mother disagreed with the findings.

'I've lived there for 12 years and the windows were not safe, nobody else can tell me otherwise, because I know better.'

Councillor Jess Lennox, Leeds City Council's executive member for housing, said: 'We in particular note the coroner's comments on the importance of education and awareness with regard to window safety and the proper use of restrictors, and, to this end, we will continue our ongoing work to communicate the correct advice to all residents in our high-rise buildings.'
Israeli forces have encircled the home of top Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in Gaza, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced today, as he vowed to capture the terror chief.

'Yesterday I said that our forces could reach anywhere in the Gaza Strip. Today they are encircling Sinwar's house,' Netanyahu said in a recorded video statement.

'His house may not be his fortress and he can escape but it's only a matter of time before we get him.'

Sinwar, who was elected leader of Hamas in 2017, is considered to be one of the masterminds behind the bloody October 7 attacks, which saw terrorists storm southern Israel.

Hamas's Gaza chief has been in hiding ever since, and while there is no indication of whether he was in his Khan Younis home, Israel has called him 'a dead man walking'.

Israel Defence Forces Spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari suggested the whole of southern Gaza's largest city could be targeted in pursuit of Sinwar, saying tonight that '[his] home is the Khan Younis area.'

Hagari added: 'Sinwar is not above ground, but underground. I won't elaborate on where exactly and what we know. Our job is to get to Sinwar and kill him.'

Israel has vowed that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar (pictured here in Gaza City in 2022) is 'a dead man walking'

People watch as others search for victims amid the rubble of a smouldering building following strikes in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip

Israeli tanks roll near the border with the Gaza Strip on December 5, 2023

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to capture Hamas terror chief Yahya Sinwar

A picture taken from Rafah on the southern Gaza Strip on December 6, 2023, shows smoke billowing during Israeli bombardment in Gaza

Pictures show fires raging after bombing in the south, including in Rafah which borders Egypt

The Chief of the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) General Staff, Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, also suggested yesterday that his troops are closing in on Sinwar.

'We are attacking the center of gravity', Halevi said, adding: 'we are asked frequently about the destruction in Gaza - Hamas is the address. Sinwar is the address.'

Israeli forces were encircling the southern city today, fighting terrorists in intense street battles in some of the fiercest combat of the two-month war.

Pictures tonight show fires raging after bombing in the south, including in Rafah which borders Egypt - where thousands of displaced people have been sheltering.

The focus of the conflict has shifted to the besieged territory's south following fierce fighting and bombardment that reduced much of the north to rubble and forced nearly two million people to flee their homes.

And despite Washington's desperate calls for Israel to prevent yet more bloodshed in Gaza and provide more aid, Israeli forces, backed by warplanes, reached the heart of Khan Younis yesterday and surrounded the city - trapping the thousands of exhausted civilians who had fled there.

The IDF aims to wipe out the Hamas leaders it believes are hiding in Khan Younis while using innocent civilians as human shields.

Spokesman Hagari said on Wednesday evening that the IDF had broken through Hamas's defenses in =Shejaiya and Jabalia in northern Gaza, as well as in Khan Younis.

'In the last 48 hours, in Jabalia, Shejaiya, and Khan Younis, we breached the defense lines,' he said.

'The terrorists are coming out from underground and fighting our forces. And our forces are winning in close-quarters combat, they have the upper hand.'

The cost of the war continues to mount, with more than 16,248 Palestinians killed since the conflict broke out two months ago, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza.

Palestinian children wounded in the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip arrive at a hospital in Rafah

Medics tend to two Palestinians injured in Israeli bombardments of the Gaza Strip

Residents and civil defence teams conduct a search and rescue operation around the rubble of a building that collapsed following an Israeli attack at the Nuseirat refugee camp in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza

A picture taken from southern Israel near the border with the Gaza Strip on December 6

Today, Israeli tanks, troops and bulldozers encircled the southern city after what the IDF said was the 'most intense day of fighting' since the war began.

Israeli air strikes obliterated buildings within Khan Younis today, with the IDF claiming it had killed several Hamas commanders in a strike near the Indonesia Hospital.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres today warned the Security Council that the war between Israel and Palestinian Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip 'may aggravate existing threats to international peace and security.'

Guterres invoked the rarely used Article 99 of the founding U.N. Charter that allows him to 'bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security.'

'We are facing a severe risk of collapse of the humanitarian system. The situation is fast deteriorating into a catastrophe with potentially irreversible implications for Palestinians as a whole and for peace and security in the region,' Guterres wrote in a letter to the 15-member council.

'Such an outcome must be avoided at all cost,' he said.

Israeli troops and tanks gather near the border with the Gaza Strip on December 3

A Palestinian woman stands in a destroyed room in a building as she inspects the site of Israeli strikes in Khan Younis on Wednesday

Israeli troops are pictured here in the Gaza Strip, in this image released by the IDF today

He also warned that public order in Gaza will 'completely break down soon due to the desperate conditions'.

Israel's widening air and ground offensive in southern Gaza has displaced tens of thousands more Palestinians and worsened the territory's dire humanitarian conditions.

Bitter fighting has prevented the distribution of food, water and medicine and new military evacuation orders from the IDF have forced civilians into a shrinking area of land.

Israeli tanks in the Gaza Strip amid their continued ground invasion of territory

The United Nations said 1.87 million people - more than 80 per cent of Gaza's population - have been driven from their homes since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, triggered by the deadly October 7 Hamas assault on southern Israel.

Israel declared war on Hamas after the terrorist group's October 7 attacks that killed 1,200 people and saw around 240 hostages taken.

Israel has has vowed to destroy Hamas and free the 138 hostages still held after scores were freed during a short-lived truce, which ended last week.
Asylum seekers will be held at the historic Dambusters RAF base after the High Court quashed a local council's complaint about the Government's plans.

West Lindsey District Council in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, argued the decision to use land at the disused RAF Scampton airfield to house migrants was unlawful.

RAF Scampton was once home to the 617 Dambusters Squadron that dealt a vital blow to Hitler's industrial machine during the Second World War.

Locals had been maintaining a near-constant vigil outside the base, for weeks, claiming they are in a battle for the base's 'heritage'.

The council slapped a temporary stop notice on the Home Office in September, arguing work to prepare the site  including moving in accommodation blocks to house up to 2,000 people  had broken rules about listed buildings and archaeology.

Braintree District Council in Essex had made a similar challenge in relation to plans for land which once formed part of RAF Wethersfield in the county. A local resident, Gabriel Clarke-Holland, is also challenging plans for Wethersfield.

The council's challenge over the former air base RAF Scampton in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire was quashed in the High Court

Protesters have put up banners outside the base - once the home to the legendary Dambusters

A mannequin wearing a recreation of Guy Gibson's RAF uniform watches the skies outside Scampton

Lawyers representing the councils complained about ministers' use of planning rules, saying they could rely on 'permitted development rights' because there is 'no emergency'.

They also raised concerns about migrants being house for longer than the initially envisaged 12 months, and that another judge has already made a ruling on the issue, with no evidence being put forward to show that ruling is wrong.

But, a High Court judge ruled against the council on Wednesday, and also dismissed the claims made by Braintree District Council and Ms Clarke-Holland.

In a written ruling, Mrs Justice Thorton said: 'The Secretary of State for the Home Department has statutory responsibility to provide accommodation and other support to asylum seekers and their dependants who would otherwise be destitute,' explained Mrs Justice Thornton, in a written ruling.

'Since the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of asylum seekers requiring accommodation has reached unprecedented levels.'

She added: 'As a result of the strains on the asylum system, in January 2023, the Home Office approached the Ministry of Defence and other government departments enquiring about availability of Crown Estate assets which could be made suitable in the short term to assist with accommodating asylum seekers.

'A submission to the minister for immigration, dated January 27 2023, sought a decision to explore the use of RAF Wethersfield and RAF Scampton to accommodate single adult male asylum seekers.'

The Dambusters base itself was closed in 2022 as part of a Ministry of Defence cost-cutting exercise.

The Dambusters crew took off from Scampton to bomb three dams in the Ruhr valley in Germany in order to cripple the Axis powers' war production efforts 80 years ago in May.

Protester Sarah Carter outside Scampton in October - she says the base has 'too much history' to be converted into accommodation

Braintree District Council in Essex had made a similar challenge in relation to plans for land which once formed part of RAF Wethersfield

Led by Wing Commander Guy Gibson, 19 specially adapted Lancaster bombers took part, using 'bouncing bombs' that spun across the surface of the water to evade underwater torpedo nets before striking the dams and exploding.

They successfully breached the Mohne and Eder dams, while the Sorpe was damaged. But of the 19 crews to fly out on the raids, eight never returned.

The exploits of the Dambusters were made into a film in 1955 starring Michael Redgrave as Barnes Wallis and Richard Todd as Guy Gibson.

Last month, 40 asylum seekers housed in MDP Wethersfield in Essex demonstrated outside the facility, complaining they didn't have access to doctors, were freezing due to poor clothing and bedding and were unable to contact their families.

Between 400 and 500 asylum seekers are currently housed in refurbished barracks and portable buildings at the former RAF base  a fraction of the 1,700 the government wants to place there.
The heavily pregnant mother-of-two stabbed on her Aberfan school run phoned a friend as she lay bleeding to say 'he tried to kill me' it emerged today, as a man is charged over the attack.

Neighbours desperately tried to stem the flow of blood coming from mother-of-two Andreea Pintilli, 29, whose baby boy is due three days before Christmas.

Veterinary assistant Katie, 31, said the attacker was using a 'large knife' to inflict multiple wounds on his victim, aiming for her stomach.

Miss Pintilli managed to take out her mobile phone to call a friend to say she had been stabbed.

Neighbour Katie Roberts - who lives opposite with husband Shaun - said: 'I heard her saying: 'He tried to kill me.' I don't know who she was speaking to, she was lying on the floor.'

Police confirmed today that Ms Pintelli has been released from hospital - as Daniel Mihai Popescu, aged 28, from Merthyr has been charged with attempted murder.

Mother-of-two Andreea Pintilli (pictured), 29, and her unborn baby both miraculously survived being stabbed by an attacker outside the family home in Aberfan, south Wales, yesterday as she returned from taking her children to school

Police arrested the 28-year-old man from Merthyr, who is known to the victim, on suspicion of attempted murder after a seven-hour manhunt. Pictured: Police in Aberfan on Monday

The mother-of-two and her unborn baby both miraculously survived being stabbed by an attacker outside the family home in Aberfan, south Wales, as she returned from taking her children to school yesterday.

The Crown Prosecution Service added that they had further authorised charges of stalking and witness intimation.

Ms Pintilli, 37 weeks pregnant, worked at a Home Bargains store and had gone on maternity leave just four days before the attack.

Colleague Leah Hull, 23, said: 'We are all just thankful Andreea and the baby are going to be alright.

'She has no family here so one of her close friends from work is with her in hospital and giving us updates on how she is doing.'

Staff at the supermarket said Ms Pintilli's baby is due on December 22.

It's understood Ms Pintilli called a work friend as she lay bleeding badly on the road outside her house in Aberfan, South Wales.

Mr Roberts, 36, said: 'We heard screams coming from outside, and we thought it was children. Then my wife Katie said 'Oh my God he is stabbing her'.

Daniel Mihai Popescu, aged 28, from Merthyr has been charged with attempted murder

Ms Pintilli, 37 weeks pregnant, worked at a Home Bargains store and had gone on maternity leave just four days before the attack

'I went outside and tried to put pressure on some of the wounds. Katie went to get some towels to make her comfortable.

'It happened so fast, she was conscious and she was very brave but obviously in shock.'

Insurance loss adjuster Mr Roberts went back inside to tend the couple's seven-month-old girl May, who was in her cot.

He continued: 'My hands were covered in blood from where I had just put my hands on the wounds and pushed so I had to wash them first.

'The woman had a jacket on, but I couldn't say if that protected her at all, the man ran off up the street, towards the Taff Trail.

'Katie stayed there just trying to help the woman until the emergency service arrived.'

The couple's motion-sensitive security camera in their front window captured every moment of the attack and the footage is being investigated by the police.

Officers previously confirmed they had arrested a 28-year-old man from Merthyr, who is known to the victim, on suspicion of attempted murder after a seven-hour manhunt.

In a statement, South Wales Police said: 'Daniel Mihai Popescu, aged 28, from Merthyr has today, Wednesday 6th December, been charged with attempt (sic) murder following an incident on Moy Road, Aberfan, Merthyr, yesterday morning.

Chief Inspector Rob Miles of South Wales Police makes a statement to the media outside Merthyr Tydfil police station yesterday

Police confirmed that Ms Pintilli has now been discharged from hospital after being stabbed 'at least five times' with a large knife in a horrifying daylight attack

'He will appear at Merthyr Magistrates Court tomorrow morning, Thursday 7th December at 10am.

'The 29-year-old woman who was injured during the incident has been discharged from hospital.'

Police confirmed that Ms Pintilli has now been discharged from hospital after being stabbed 'at least five times' with a large knife in a horrifying daylight attack.

Popescu will appear at Merthyr Magistrates Court tomorrow morning.

Armed police swooped on Moy Road, Aberfan, in the south Wales village shortly after 9am yesterday when the mother - who had moved to the area with her two children last month - was reportedly found in a pool of blood on the pavement.

Schools, community centres and public buildings in a five mile radius went into lockdown while the suspect was on the run. Neighbours ran into the street with pillows and blankets while emergency services arrived.

Jordan Jones, Senior Crown Prosecutor of CPS Cymru-Wales said; 'Following a review of evidence provided by South Wales Police, we have authorised charges against a man who stabbed a female in Aberfan yesterday, 5 December 2023.

'Daniel Mihai Popescu, 29, has been charged with attempted murder, stalking and witness intimation.

Armed police swooped on Moy Road, Aberfan, in the south Wales village shortly after 9am yesterday when the mother - who had moved to the area with her two children last month - was reportedly found in a pool of blood on the pavement

'He has been remanded in custody to appear before Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court on the 7 December 2023.

'Criminal proceedings are active and Popescu has the right to a fair trial.

'It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.

'The function of the CPS is not to decide whether a person is guilty of a criminal offence, but to make fair, independent and objective assessments about whether it is appropriate to present charges for a criminal court to consider'.

Last night Ms Pintilli's ex-partner Teodor Balan, 34, who is the father of her two children, said: 'Thank God she is OK, I was so worried about her'.

He added: 'She is a very good mother, she is looking after the children very well. It was difficult for her to bring up two children while working part time.'

Mr Balan, who was in a relationship with her for nearly ten years until 2020, told the newspaper that he was 'so worried' about Andreea, who was working part-time at Home Bargains to support her family financially.

'She called me in the morning. I'm still friends with her. I helped her move her stuff, and helped her paint. We moved just over a week ago.'

The suspected knifeman was arrested after armed police surrounded a house in the village of Troedyrhiw, three miles from the scene of the stabbing.

Four armed officers burst into the pale yellow three-bedroomed terraced property at 3.30pm while neighbours were advised to stay indoors.

Police were inside for 30 minutes before the front door opened and a man in a black hoodie was bundled into the rear of a police car and driven off.
President Joe Biden on Wednesday warned that American troops could have to fight Russian forces if Congress prevents further aid being sent to Ukraine.

He demanded that lawmakers approve his request for tens of billions in military and economic assistance.

Republicans have said they are not willing to countenance another major package of aid unless the administration takes action on the southern border.

But Biden said Republicans were handing Russian President Vladimir Putin a gift.

'This cannot wait,' he said in a televised address.

'Congress needs to pass supplemental funding for Ukraine before they break for the holiday recess, simple as that, frankly.'

President Joe Biden on Wednesday warned that American troops could have to fight Russian forces if Congress prevents further aid being sent to Ukraine

Ukrainian soldiers fire towards Russian targets in Avdiivka, Ukraine, December 1

His administration is warning of dire consequences for Kyiv if lawmakers don't act to keep support flowing and European allies are increasingly alarmed at the consequences for democracy in their backyard.

Biden reeled off the abuses committed by Putin and his troops in Ukraine and warned that Russia would not be content stopping there.

'It's important to see the long run here. He's gonna keep going. He's made that pretty clear,' he said.

'If Putin attacks a NATO ally, if he keeps going and then he attacks a NATO ally, when we've committed as a NATO member to defend every inch of NATO territory, then we'll have something that we don't seek and that we don't have today: American troops fighting Russian troops.'

He accused Republicans of holding aid 'hostage' over the border and of being willing to 'kneecap' Ukrainian forces on the battlefield

'Republicans in Congress are willing to give Putin the greatest gift he could hope for,' he said, adding that any delay in sending aid would strengthen the Russian president's position.

But he hinted that he was ready to do a deal with Republicans, even if they would have to accept they were not going to get everything they wanted.

'This has to be a negotiation,' he said.

Biden's speech came soon after he held a video call with leaders of the Group of Seven advanced democracies, who have all backed Ukraine, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky walks down the White House colonnade to the Oval Office with Biden in September

Speaker Mike Johnson promised no funding for Ukraine would pass the House without 'transformative' border security provisions - as immigration talks in the Democratic-led Senate grind to a halt

Ukrainian servicemen of the 42nd Mechanised Brigade dig trenches during a field military exercise in the Donetsk region on December 6

The Ukrainian leader used the call to underline the case for more support.

'Russia believes that America and Europe will show weakness and will not maintain support for Ukraine at the proper level. Putin believes that the free world will not fully enforce its own sanctions,' he said, according to an account of the conversation posted to his website.

'The free world vitally needs to maintain its consolidation, maintain interaction, maintain support for those whose freedom is being attacked.'

Biden has asked Congress for more than $100 billion to fund conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, as well as other matters of national security. However, Republicans on Capitol Hill have resisted the request, some insisting that Biden first take measures to secure the nation's southern border.

The White House has warned repeatedly of the consequences of failing to back Ukraine.

In a blunt letter sent to Congress on Monday, Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young wrote: 'We are out of money to support Ukraine in this fight. This isn't a next year problem. The time to help a democratic Ukraine fight against Russian aggression is right now.

Biden delivered his remarks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on Wednesday

'It is time for Congress to act.'

However, Republican leaders quickly dug in.

Speaker Mike Johnson promised there would be no funding for Ukraine without 'transformative' border security provisions.

'Ukraine funding is dependent upon enactment of transformative change to our nation's border security laws,' he wrote in a letter to the White House Tuesday.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron is due to arrive in Washington D.C. Wednesday as part of an effort to persuade U.S. lawmakers of the importance of resisting Russian aggression.

'The UK and the US are deeply bound by a shared mission to defend the values that provide security and prosperity for us all,' he said.

'That is why we remain unwavering in our support of Ukraine. If we allow Putins aggression to succeed, it will embolden those who challenge democracy and threaten our way of life. We cannot let them prevail.'
One person was injured after a car smashed through a hospital lobby, with terrified onlookers comparing the scene of destruction to 'a bomb going off'.

The black car hurtled through the revolving doors of Wrexham Maelor Hospital, at 2pm, causing police to cordon off the 980-bed medical centre.

The driver, believed to be an elderly woman, is thought to have 'lost control' of the vehicle.

Photographs showed the glass of the revolving doors shattered while the car remained jammed in the entrance with its boot wide open.

One mother who was sat in the hospital cafe with her child when she heard the smash said: 'I was sat with my daughter in the cafe when it happened, sounded like a bomb going off when it went through.'

The black car crashed through the main revolving door entrance of Wrexham Maelor Hospital after an elderly woman driver is said to have lost control of her vehicle

Police officers cordoned off the area advising public to stay away while their investigations continue

Emergency services attended the crash, with one person being treated for minor injuries

A taxi driver who had been picking up patients said: 'An elderly lady unfortunately drove straight into the Wrexham Maelor main entrance.

'I'm a private hire driver and I was collecting customers. I jumped out and started phoning the fire brigade.

'I went in and she was opening her car door. So I was starting to help her get out. Someone was saying to make sure the engine was turned off which she had.'

'I just helped her get out of the building. There was some nurses waiting outside of the doors so I just passed her over. I got in my car and took my customers home.'

Emergency services attended the scene with one person being assessed for minor injuries.

A North Wales Police spokesman said: 'Officers are currently in attendance and one person is being assessed for minor injuries.

'The front entrance to the hospital is currently cordoned off and the public are requested to avoid the immediate vicinity whilst emergency services deal with the incident.'
House Republicans are threatening to hold Hunter Biden in contempt of Congress if he doesn't appear for his closed-door deposition on December 13.

Republicans who subpoenaed Hunter and James Biden on November 8 as part of the investigation into the Biden family's shady business dealings have been embroiled in a back-and-forth with Hunter's attorney Abbe Lowell regarding the nature of the first son's appearance before their committees.

Hunter Biden told House Republicans last week that he would testify in public any day in December after he was issued a subpoena for a closed-door interview.

But Republicans said they want Hunter to testify on the 13th behind closed doors first, and then would discuss holding a second public hearing, in order to ensure he doesn't receive 'special treatment.'

Oversight Chairman James Comer said that Democrats would put on a spectacle with 'yelling and screaming' in an open-hearing format.

In a letter obtained by DailyMail.com Wednesday, Comer and Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan responded to Lowell, demanding Hunter appear behind closed doors or they will take legal action against him.

Hunter Biden - seen above with his wife Melissa Cohen - offered to testify in public before Congress in December

'On November 8, 2023, we issued subpoenas to your client, Robert Hunter Biden, for a deposition on December 13, 2023. We received your letters dated November 28, 2023, and December 6, 2023, concerning the deposition subpoenas,' they write.

'Contrary to the assertions in your letter, there is no choice for Mr. Biden to make; the subpoenas compel him to appear for a deposition on December 13. If Mr. Biden does not appear for his deposition on December 13, 2023, the Committees will initiate contempt of Congress proceedings,' the letter continues.

Earlier Wednesday, Lowell wrote again to Comer reiterating his demands that Hunter appear in a public setting.

He accuses the Republicans of using closed-door session to 'manipulate, even distort, the facts and misinform the American public.'

'A hearing would ensure transparency and truth in these proceedings,' continued a combative Lowell in the letter reviewed by DailyMail.com.

But Republicans have strongly pushed back on that claim, with an Oversight Committee spokesperson calling it 'patently false.'

They point to Democratic Ranking Member Jamie Raskin's support of closed-door depositions during the House January 6 Committee's investigation.

Raskin slammed the Republicans' threat of contempt as 'a joke.'

'Hunter Biden will answer questions under oath in front of the worldbut unless he testifies in secret so he can be misquoted, [James Comer] will hold him in contempt?' he wrote on X.

'What a joke. Jim Jordan blew off HIS subpoena. Comer doesnt want the truthand cant handle it.'

If Hunter is held in contempt of Congress, his case would go before the Biden-led Department of Justice. If convicted, he could face up to 12 months jail time or a fine of up to $100,000.

Hunter Biden has been going on the offensive in the charges against him and his latest volley escalates the battle he's facing with House Republicans.

New Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., also said that the House can expect to vote on the formal impeachment inquiry into President Biden by next week.

In September, former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., unilaterally launched the impeachment proceedings into how Joe Biden may have personally benefitted from his son's business connections.

But the White House has been stonewalling the Republicans' requests for documents because there was no formal vote on opening the inquiry.

The Biden family have denied any wrong doing and President Biden has repeatedly said he was not involved in his son's business affairs.

In November, House Republicans subpoenaed Hunter Biden and President Biden's brother James to testify. James Biden was asked to appear for an interview with the panel on Dec. 6 and has yet to respond.

There are risks for Hunter Biden in testifying in public.

He is currently under indictment for gun charges brought by special counsel David Weiss where he has pleaded not guilty.

But additional tax charges could also be handed down, and anything Hunter Biden testified to in a congressional hearing would be admissible in criminal trial.

Melissa Cohen and Hunter Biden with President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden in Nantucket over the Thanksgiving holiday

Hunter and James were subpoenaed as part of House Republicans' impeachment inquiry in President Biden, which is used to determine whether there is enough evidence to launch a formal impeachment.

They say they have 12-15 more interviews to conduct.

They must then decide whether to vote on impeachment articles - and force moderates to make a politically fraught vote on whether or not to impeach the president.

Ending an impeachment inquiry without a vote, or with a failed vote, would be an embarrassing defeat for Republicans, and would effectively look like it cleared the president of any wrongdoing.
It was claimed that Rodrigues spent 24 hours with Ms Hansen's lifeless body

The Old Bailey heard that he checked the bugs 302 times a day before murder

An obsessive airport worker 'planted bugs' at his ex's house and checked them 302 times while she was on a date with her new partner, before he 'bludgeoned her to death', a court has heard.

Sheldon Rodrigues, 30, allegedly spent most of his night shift listening in on his housemate Stephanie Hansen, 39, who he had previously been intimate with, as she enjoyed a passionate date with her new boyfriend, Celcso Cabillan, on the night before she was murdered.

It was claimed that Rodrigues had remote access to the devices on his phone and was caught on CCTV checking and rechecking his handset and headphones when he was supposed to be working as a cargo agent at Heathrow Airport.

In one clip he is seen accessing the tiny camera he had buried in the carpet on the landing floor of the house they still shared, The Old Bailey heard.

Rodrigues then allegedly returned home from work on his electric bike in the early hours and waited for Mr Cabillan to leave before he stabbed and bludgeoned Ms Hansen to death, it was claimed.

Stephanie Hansen, 39, (pictured): Obsessive housemate bugged house they shared

Ms Hansen (pictured) was allegedly bludgeoned her to death by the airport worker, who denies murdering her

Then he set out to frame Mr Cabillan, jurors have heard.

Throughout his shift at work before the killing, Rodrigues - who denies murder - was seen on CCTV touching his earphones, putting his finger to his ear or adjusting his ear piece.

The jury heard how he would have one bud in his ear while he charged the other one so he could listen in constantly.

PC Chris Hough told the court he made 302 movements to his phone or headphones.

'He would take one bud out to charge it and then switch,' the officer said.

'He would have one bud on the go, while the other was charging.

About the camera: 'The camera was potentially placed in the middle of the landing on the floor.'

On 10 December 2022, less than three weeks before Ms Hansen was killed, Rodrigues was stopped by police for following her boyfriend Celcso Cabillan in a friends car.

Rodrigues - of Willenhall Drive, Hayes, west London - was in the passenger seat of the car, with the friend driving him and the driver's children in the back of the car.

The driver and Rodrigues had waited for Mr Cabillan to leave work at Heathrow airport before tailing him.

Mr Cabillan was so alarmed that he called the police and gave them the registration number.

When police questioned Rodrigues he said: '(We were) looking for a nice place to eat with the kids and it must have been a misunderstanding.'

Rodrigues and Ms Hansen both worked as cargo agents at Heathrow and briefly been in a relationship in 2014.

Forensics combing the scene for clues after Ms Hansen was found dead on New Year's Eve last year

Police cars rushed to he home where Ms Hansen was found dead on New Year's Eve 2022

The court has heard how Rodrigues had become 'obsessed' with Ms Hansen and refused the idea that they should be nothing more than friends.

He then allegedly returned home from work at 6:49am to attack Ms Hansen, who was found naked from the waist down in her bloodstained pyjamas.

The court heard that the stabbing was so brutal that the knife slipped out of his hand, badly cutting Rodrigues. He was later seen on CCTV buying bandages, for a cut he claimed he got from 'doing some household work.'

Mr Cabillan had gone to the house when his messages to Ms Hansen were unanswered and was seen banging on the door for half an hour before he went back to his home in Feltham.

It was then claimed that Rodrigues spent over 24 hours in the house with Ms Hansen's lifeless body before he called an ambulance, trying to pin the blame on Mr Cabillan.

Ms Hansen was found dead on December 31 last year.

In the call to the operator, Rodrigues said: 'I have just found my housemate's body. I have just been in her room. I have found her dead in there.

'I think her boyfriend has done something to her. He stayed here two nights ago. There is blood spattered all over the room as well.'

The trial continues.
A new primary will take place in January after a Judge reviewed the 'shocking' footage and nullified the original result

A Connecticut mayor has admitted his campaign engaged in ballot stuffing after staffer was caught on camera filling boxes.

Incumber Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim accepted that his team was engaged in 'serious voting irregularities', but also accused his rival of similar foul play.

His admission came after he narrowly 'won' the September 12 Democratic Primary in against challenger John Gomes by 251 votes.

But Superior Court Judge William Clark ordered a rerun of the election after 'shocking' surveillance footage emerged showing the sabotage.

'As for the September primary, I own the fact that the court found people connected with my campaign engaged in serious voting irregularities,' Ganim said at a press conference, the CT Examiner reports.

But he urged his challenger to be 'honest, trustworthy and truthful' and admit that 'multiple people associated with his campaign engaged in clearly unlawful ballot behavior in the primary as well.'

Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim acknowledged that multiple members of his team were engaged in 'serious voting irregularities'

But the incumbent mayor accused his rival John Gomes of engaging in the same behavior

Ganim stated that his team have since sent video of the alleged ballot stuffing to the Connecticut State Election Enforcement Commission.

He claims the video shows a Gomes supporter 'making 11 trips to the ballot box.' with 'so many ballots in her hand in a pile that she drops them on the ground, picks them back up, clearly visible on the video, and then stuffed them in the ballot box.'

Ganim also hit out at his rival for being 'disingenuous by sending out videos of people putting ballots in boxes from my campaign.'

But he revealed he will not challenge the ruling to toss the result and set a new Primary for January 23.

No new complaints or videos from either side have been received this week, an SEEC spokesman confirmed.

Gomes sued the city and demanded a new Primary after the footage emerged.

The results of the Primary were overturned after surveillance footage showed members of the Ganim campaign stuffing ballots into boxes. Judge Clark also cited statistics which showed abnormally large numbers of absentee ballots were cast

Ganim' staffer Wanda Geter-Pataky was seen placing absentee ballots into an election drop box outside the Margaret Morton Government Center, where she worked

Wanda Geter-Pataky refused to answer questions and exercised her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination

Judge Clark made the order after reviewing the 'shocking' video and statistics showing that abnormally large numbers of absentee ballots were cast in certain voting districts.

Under Connecticut law, voters using a collection box must drop off their completed ballots themselves, or designate certain family members, police, local election officials or a caregiver to do it for them.

Judge Clark ruled that just two women made or were directly involved in 15 incidents of drop boxes being stuffed with ballots.

Gomes contends that person is Wanda Geter-Pataky, a Ganim supporter and vice chair of the Bridgeport Democratic Town Committee.

Video appeared to show her dropping absentee ballots into an election drop box outside the Margaret Morton Government Center, where she worked.

In court she refused to answer questions and exercised her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination.

In a statement to the Examiner, Gomes' team said that Ganim had failed to mention the fresh allegations against him in discussions for a new primary or during the civil trial.

'Any offender who mishandled ballots in violation of the law should be subject to the penalties outlined in the Connecticut General Statutes,' the statement said.

'There were opportunities to call additional witnesses during the civil trial, and the attorneys for the city declined.

Superior Court Judge William Clark said he had seen enough evidence of malfeasance to order a rerun of a September 12 primary

Ballot drop boxes have been a prime target for those pushing conspiracy theories that the 2020 presidential race was rigged and election results can't be trusted

'If todays statements by the mayor were genuine, it would have been presented to all parties during the discussion for a new primary date.

'The announcement by the mayor to not appeal Judge Clarks ruling and the listening tour that began today is a part of a public relations campaign by the mayor to obtain his law license.'

Lawyers for city officials argued in a joint legal brief that the security camera footage doesn't prove anything illegal took place. They said 'not one voter' testified about their ballot being mishandled.

So far, the Bridgeport scandal hasn't involved any allegations that people doctored ballots or created fake votes.

Instead, they involve an activity known as 'ballot harvesting,' where campaign workers or volunteers visit potential voters, persuade them to fill out absentee ballots, and then collect those ballots and put them in drop boxes or send them in via the mail.

Ganim is seeking an eighth term as mayor. He previously served from 1991 to 2003 before spending seven years in federal prison for corruption and extortion charges stemming from his time in office. Voters returned him to the job in 2015 and 2019.

Gomes served in Ganim's second administration as the city's acting chief administrative officer until he was demoted in 2016 and later as an assistant chief administrative officer until his termination in July 2022.

DailyMail.com has approached Ganim and Gomes for comment.
A man found dead next to a burning car in Northern Ireland has been named as nursing assistant Odhran Kelly.

The 23-year-old's body was discovered in Maple Court, in Lurgan, County Armagh, in the early hours of Sunday.

Detectives who launched a murder probe do not believe his death is linked to organised crime and have urged three people captured on CCTV walking 'not far' from the vehicle to come forward.

Floral tributes have been left nearby a police cordon where forensics were seen combing the melted remains of the vehicle on Sunday.

A vigil was held tonight attended by hundreds of mourners wearing black 'Justice for Odhran' T-shirts, while police said a fourth person had been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Odhran's grief-stricken mother Jacqui Murray laid flowers near to where her son died and left a handwritten note which was also signed by her other son Paul: 'My beautiful boy, taken too soon. My heart is broken into a million pieces. Love you always, Mum and big brother Paul.'

Nursing assistant Odhran Kelly, 23, was found dead next to a burning car during hte early hours of Saturday

Friends and family described Odhran as 'funny, kind, caring' while his grief-stricken mother Jacqui Kelly said her 'heart is broken into a million pieces'

Hundreds of mourners huddled together and sheltered from the rain under umbrellas as they gathered at a vigil in Edward Street tonight in memory of Odhran.

Many brought balloons, candles and flowers, while some of his family members wore T-shirts reading 'Justice for Odhran'.

John O'Dowd, Sinn Fein MLA for Upper Bann, told the crowd that the community's heart was broken in the wake of Mr Kelly's death.

'This is an extremely sad occasion where we gather here tonight. We stand in solidarity with Odhran's family and friends,' he said.

'A young man's life taken too soon and taken so cruelly. Our hearts are broken but we stand to comfort his friends and his loved ones.'

Mr O'Dowd said Mr Kelly was a loving and caring man.

'I want to appeal to this community, not to set Lurgan, its present, its future in the image of those who robbed young Odhran of his life. Let's set the present and the future image of Lurgan in the image of Odhran,' he said.

'Odhran cared and loved deeply for his friends and his family. He had hopes and ambitions.'

Hundreds of mourners attended a vigil in Edward Street wearing 'Justice for Odhran' t-shirts and carring banners and balloons

People wrapped up in scarfs and jumpers wore black T-shirts, which had a picture of Odhran on the front, over the top of their jackets (left) and carried placards

Sinn Fein MLA John O'Dowd (right) and Fr Colum Wright (centre), parish priest in Lurgan both gave speeches at tonight's vigil

Balloons and floral tributes are placed near the scene where Odhran was found dead

Fr Colum Wright, parish priest in Lurgan, thanked those in attendance on behalf of the Kelly family.

'Your love and your support and your friendship here is greatly, greatly appreciated by each and every one of them,' he said.

He added that Mr Kelly was 'suddenly and violently taken from us'.

He was earlier described as 'funny, caring, kind' by friend Aisling Lambert.

She told UTV he always made you feel special' and revealed he had recently moved into a new home.

'He had his own wee house sitting lovely,' Aisling said. 'It's just devastating, so it is - honestly just devastating.'

Leah Toal described him as 'a kind soul, a great friend, an amazing son and brother [and] the life and soul of the party'.

She told the Belfast Telegraph: 'People need to know Odhrans name and that he didnt deserve this.'

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart met with police today and said the community has been left reeling by his death.

She wrote on her Facebook page alongside a picture of Odhran: 'Such a tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are very much with the family of Odhran Kelly. A young life end in such horrific circumstances.

'People in Lurgan are still so shocked at this murder, and the thoughts of everyone are with the Kelly family as they struggle to comprehend this terrible tragedy.

'Today I met with the local Police team and can assure everyone they have been working tirelessly on the case and it is important that anyone with information can help bring those responsible to justice.

'There has been an appeal for footage that circulated on social media and it would be important that this might be made available for scrutiny.

'It is important justice is secured for the taking of an innocent young mans life.

Flowers were left by a lamppost in memory of Odhran. His mother was one of those to leave a note which told how her heart was broken into a million pieces

Forensics comb the scene on Monday close to where Odhran's body was found. Two women aged 35 and 43, and a man, 31, who were arrested on suspicion of murder remain in police custody

PSNI Detective Chief Inspector Tony Kelly said: 'A post-mortem examination has now taken place and the deceased has been formally identified as Odhran Kelly.

'My thoughts are first and foremost with Mr Kelly's family, who are left trying to come to terms with this terrible loss.'

DCI Kelly continued: 'While our investigation is at an early stage, I do not believe there is an organised crime link. We do know that, tragically, Odhran's body was found beside a burning car in the Maple Court area in the early hours of Sunday morning.

'I'm keen to speak with three people, who are captured on CCTV, walking not far from this car. I believe they may have information that could assist our investigation and would ask them to get in touch as soon as possible. If you were in the Edward Street or Francis Street areas of Lurgan between 2am and 5am on Sunday and noticed any suspicious activity, please contact us on 101.'

Two women, aged 36 and 43, and a 31-year-old man, who were arrested on suspicion of murder, remained in custody this afternoon.

Another 31-year-old man was today arrested on suspicion of murder.

In a statement released after the latest arrest, DCI Kelly said: 'The investigation is at an early stage and we are continuing to interview people who remain in custody.

'I am keeping an open mind regarding the motive and am following a number of lines of enquiry.'
An elderly vandal has been arrested and charged with hate crimes for allegedly spray-painting anti-Semitic graffiti across a posh seaside village in New York.

Michael Nicholoulias, 74, faces two counts of aggravated harassment and one count of fourth-degree criminal mischief as a hate crime, both felonies, Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney said during a press conference.

Before his arrest on Monday night, investigators followed Nicholoulias as he was spray-painting a Swastika at a beach in Montauk, News 12 reported.

'He was being followed by members of our law enforcement team  who were able to observe him as he was bent over spraying a black spray paint Swastika in the vicinity of a park bench,' Tierney said.

During his hate-peddling rampage, Nicholoulias allegedly hit 14 separate locations with anti-Semitic messages including near Ditch Plains Beach in late October and on Bounce Beach Montauk last month.

Michael Nicholoulias, 74, has been arrested and charged with hate crimes for spray-painting anti-Semitic graffiti, including swastikas, in Montauk, New York

Nicholoulias is accused of painting anti-Semitic messages near Ditch Plains Beach in late October and on Bounce Beach Montauk last month

Before his arrest on Monday night, investigators followed Nicholoulias as he was spray-painting another swastika at a beach in the posh seaside village

Hateful symbols, including swastikas, were also discovered outside Naturally Good Food and Sausages Pizza, two stores in downtown Montauk.

Nicholoulias pleaded not guilty and was released on Tuesday with GPS monitoring and two orders of protection.

The anti-Semitic graffiti was first discovered in the East End hamlet on October 29. Additional hateful symbols appeared approximately a week later on fences and picnic tables near two businesses on Montauk Highway.

Photographs shared by Naturally Good Food on social media revealed multiple swastikas in black paint scrawled on tables, fencing, and an exit door.

Among the disturbing messages was a German phrase translated to 'Jews die,' accompanied by a two-feet-tall swastika outside the business.

On the food trucks at Ditch Plains Beach, the spray-painted slogan translated to 'Free Palestine' popped up, along with another swastika.

At the time, Rabbi Josh Franklin of the Jewish Center of the Hamptons wrote on social media: 'I spent the morning in Montauk cleaning up the graffiti left on a Montauk store owned by Jews. It feels like I'm living Kristallnacht in 2023.'

Photographs shared by Naturally Good Food on social media revealed multiple swastikas in black paint scrawled on tables, fencing, and an exit door

Among the disturbing messages was a German phrase translated to 'Jews die,' accompanied by a two-feet-tall swastika outside the business

The graffiti triggered a peaceful rally condemning the anti-Semitism sentiments in Montauk, according to local reports.

Authorities said Nicholoulias, the owner of a white PT Cruiser appeared on surveillance footage near the affected businesses, was not on any hate group watch lists before.

He allegedly admitted 'targeting those businesses,' which he believed to be Jewish-owned, reported by Newsday.

East Hampton Police Chief Michael Sarlo said he's pleased that officers were able to make a swift arrest in this case, with the investigation initiated on November 10.

'As much as the town of East Hampton and Montauk has grown, it's still a very tight-knit community, a very diverse community,'Sarlo told the outlet.

'And when something like this, on a global scale, hits home locally, it really touches a nerve within the community.'

On the food trucks at Ditch Plains Beach, the spray-painted slogan translated to 'Free Palestine' popped up, along with another swastika

The graffiti triggered a peaceful rally condemning the anti-Semitism sentiments in Montauk, according to local reports

Cities across the country have seen a rise in anti-Semitic activity since the Hamas' October 7 terror attack on Israel.

As of November 2023, New York City has experienced a 33% increase in reported hate crimes compared to the same period in 2022, according to the New York Police Department (NYPD).

There have been 237 anti-Semitic incidents in the state of New York recorded by Anti-Defamation League.

Newsday reported the number of hate incidents reported to Suffolk police had already exceeded the total from all of 2022 prior to October 7.

There have been 95 hate incidents reported through November 30, including 42 cases that involved anti-Jewish hate, police said.

'We are seeing a dramatic increase in antisemitic hate crimes,' Suffolk police Chief of Detectives John Rowan said. 'The numbers we're looking at are definitely way higher than they were last year.'

Nicholoulias will face at least four years in jail in convicted. His next court date is December 7.
Republican probe found 22 phone calls where Biden was on the line with his son's associates

President Joe Biden denied 'interacting' with Hunter Biden's business partners and called allegations a 'bunch of lies' when asked about the Republican impeachment probe.

He insisted there weren't any communications with scandal-hit son's associates, despite the GOP sharing evidence of at least 22 phone calls the then-vice president sat in on, dinners with Hunter's associates at Washington, D.C., restaurants and participation in coffee meetings.

Biden's denial came just days after Congressional investigators revealed he received $1,380 monthly payments from Hunter's company.

The president took a question on the topic at the end of a brief statement where he called on Republicans to move billions in military and other aid for Ukraine, while signaling a willingness to deal on border issues.

'I did not - it's just a bunch of lies,' Biden said.

He was asked about polling showing that nearly 70 percent of Americans think he did something unethical or illegal with family business interests and why he interacted with 'so many' of his son Hunter and brother James' associates.

'I'm not going to comment, I did not,' Biden began, before repeatedly blasting 'lies.'

'It's just a bunch of lies,' President Joe Biden said when asked about why he interacted with 'so many' of Hunter Biden's business associates

Earlier this week, House Oversight chairman Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.) released bank records that Republicans say indicate he got at least three monthly payments from a company owned by Hunter Biden that took in millions from China.

The transfers come from 2018, after Biden had left the vice presidency. The records, subpoenaed by the GOP, appear to show he took three payments of $1,380 each on September 17, October 15 and November 15.

The payments came from Hunter-owned firm Owasco PC.

A Comer spokesperson called them 'part of a pattern revealing Joe Biden knew about, participated in and benefited from his familys influence-peddling schemes.'

Hunter Biden is currently facing probe of his taxes and finances and potential foreign lobby disclosure issues. He has been charged with felony gun offenses related to a form he signed for the purchase of a firearm and also pleaded not guilty to two misdemeanor tax crimes.

The payments were for a 2018 Ford Raptor truck that Biden bought and that Hunter was using for a time, according to the Washington Post, which reviewed an email about it.

'I did not - it's just a bunch of lies,' Biden said about being involved in his son's dealings at the end of his remarks on Wednesday

Hunter Biden lawyer Abbe Lowell told the paper, 'The truth is Hunters father helped him when he was struggling financially due to his addiction and could not secure credit to finance a truck. When Hunter was able to, he paid his father back and took over the payments himself.'

The president has repeatedly denied being in business with his son, but former Hunter Biden business associates have testified he would briefly pop on conference calls or drop by meetings.

The House is moving toward a possible floor vote on a formal impeachment inquiry. House Speaker Mike Johnson said the vote would come next week.
Israeli spies knew of Hamas' plans to attack partygoers at the Nova music festival just hours before the terrorists carried out the bloody assault, it has been reported.

Secret agents and military commanders held late-night meetings hours before the October 7 attack began, an investigation by the Israeli newspaper Haaretz said.

The first meeting took place over the phone close to midnight with senior figures of the IDF, such as its chief of staff Herzl Halevi, being made aware of the warnings.

A second briefing was then held at 3am with the IDF concluding that Hamas was conducting a training exercise on the Gaza border rather than preparing for the deadly attack.

Despite the conclusion, Israeli forces increased the number of drone surveillance flights in the area, while Team Tequila - a operational unit that focuses on preventing abductions - were deployed to the Nahal Oz, a kibbutz close to the country's border.

Israeli spies and military commanders knew of Hamas ' plans to attack partygoers at the Nova music festival, it has been reported. Pictured: A woman fleeing the terrorists on October 7

Secret agents and military commanders held late-night meetings hours before the October 7 attack began. Pictured: A Hamas terrorist storming the festival

During the lethal attack 360 people were killed and a further 40 were taken hostage. Pictured: Burnt cars left behind after the festival massacre

While these precautions were taken by the Israeli military no warnings were relayed to the organisers of the festival that was taking place near Kibbutz Re'im, just three miles away from Gaza.

Just hours later, shortly after 6.30am, Hamas terrorists broke into the site, unleashing its raid of terror, that saw 360 people killed and a further 40 taken hostage.

The festival had been orgnaised in close operation with Israel's military and had been approved by those soldiers working in northern parts of Gaza.

But now festival organisers have claimed that when they rang officers they had been liaising with as the massacre began to unfold they were told the forces were in disarray and they would have to cope on their own.

The production team told the Israeli paper that if it had received prior warning to the attack - even just an hour before - youngsters could have been evacuated in time.

Army units on duty, however, are said to have had no knowledge of the festival taking place in southern Israel.

The IDF eventually attended the devastating scene at 3pm after victims had been killed or those who survived had been playing dead or fled on foot.

An inquiry will take place when the war in Gaza is over but the festival is expected to be one of the most highly-scrutinised parts of the procedure.

'The military understands that the Re'im festival will be at the center of the inquiry commissions that will be established at the end of the war,' an IDF source told Haaertez this week. They added: 'This massacre should have been prevented.'

Responding to the claims the IDF said that a 'detailed and in-depth investigation of the matter, to ascertain the details, will be carried out when the operational situation allows'.
A top Biden campaign official was noncommittal on Wednesday about President Joe Biden participating in the general election debates.

Quentin Fulks, the principal deputy campaign manager for the Biden-Harris campaign, was asked if the president was committed to participating now that the the Commission on Presidential Debates released a schedule.

Fulks, former Democratic Alabama Sen. Doug Jones and Alabama state Rep. Barbara Drummond held a press conference in Tuscaloosa, Alabama where the fourth Republican primary debate will be held on the University of Alabama's campus later Wednesday night.

'At the end of the day, we're focused on building a campaign. We'll have those conversations,' Fulks said.

When a reporter pointed out that sounded like a 'no,' Fulks revised his statement but still didn't commit Biden to participate in the trio of the debates scheduled.

Quentin Fulks (right), the principal deputy campaign manager for the Biden-Harris campaign, remained noncommital about President Joe Biden participating in general election debates as he briefing reporters in Tuscaloosa, Alabama Wednesday

Ex-President Donald Trump (left) and President Joe Biden (right) shared the debate stage twice in 2020, with Trump pulling out of the second general election debate when the Commission on Presidential Debates wanted it to be held virtually following his COVID case

'No, I said that the campaign is going to take a look at the schedule, we're going to have this conversation, but as of right now, our focus is on building a campaign and infrastructure while Republicans remain in a divisive primary, where their frontrunner is not attending debates, our campaign is focusing on what we need to do to win an election,' he said.

Former President Donald Trump, the Republican frontrunner, has skipped all four GOP primary debates, providing counter-programming instead.

This time around, Trump opted to headline a town hall Tuesday night with Fox News' Sean Hannity instead of participating.

At the same time, the former president has said he wants to debate Biden.

'We have to debate,' he told Fox News' Bret Baier during their June interview. 'He and I have to definitely debate. That's what I love. The two of us have to debate.'

In 2020, Trump and Biden went toe-to-toe onstage twice.

Trump, however, pulled out of the second scheduled general election debate because the Commission on Presidential Debates wanted to hold it virtually in the aftermath of Trump's COVID-19 case.

The then-president refused.

Last month, the Commission on Presidential Debates, the longtime bipartisan planning group of the presidential debates, announced the 2024 debate dates as September 16, October 1 and October 9.

The trio of debates would be held at Texas State University in San Marcos, Virginia State University in Petersburg, Virginia and the University of Utah in Salt Lake City.

The vice presidential debate would take place on September 25 in Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania.

While Trump, should he win the GOP nomination, may be keen to participate, the Republican National Committee has criticized the Commission on Presidential Debates over the group's 2020 handling of the debates and is pushing the GOP nominee not to participate.

Democrats have also grumbled about the Commission on Presidential Debates, charging that the group didn't adhere to its own rules when it came to Trump's behavior.
A bloodstained knife and note saying 'it was me or him' was discovered next to the body of a man who was stabbed to death by his friend, a court heard today.

Joe Holland, 25, was found in a 'pool of blood' inside a locked bathroom after being stabbed to death by his friend James Preston, 21.

The pals were earlier seen in a group at a Chinese restaurant snorting ketamine off a table before heading to a pub where they carried on taking drugs and drinking alcohol.

But the 'mood changed' within 13 minutes when they returned to Preston's parents' house in Liverpool, a jury heard today.

Police officers made the grim discovery later that day with a note written in blue highlighter next to Mr Holland's body saying 'It was me or him', and a bloodstained knife with a bent blade.

Preston accepts inflicting the knife wounds which killed Mr Holland on June 8, but denies murder and manslaughter, arguing he was acting in self-defence when he stabbed his friend in the chest, penetrating his lung and heart.

Joe Holland, 25, (pictured) was found in a 'pool of blood' inside a locked bathroom after being stabbed to death by his friend James Preston

A police van and cordon outside Preston's parents' house, where Mr Holland was found dead

Today a former friend of Preston and Mr Holland, Sean Ruud, was questioned about an arson attack on Preston's parents' home after the stabbing.

The jury heard Mr Ruud had been at Preston's family home with the other two men drinking and inhaling balloons of nitrous oxide, but left before Mr Holland was stabbed, which he told the court was because Preston punched him in the back of the head 'with no warning'.

Under cross-examination, Nick Johnson KC, defending, suggested that there had been a 'scuffle' with the defendant because Mr Ruud had been playing loud music and 'making a mess'.

He said: 'That was the reason from the problem between you and Mr Preston wasn't it?'.

Mr Ruud replied: 'I don't recall It might have been. I was the one who got hit so I don't know the reason.'

Mr Johnson said: 'When Mr Preston challenged you for making too much noise and making a mess, you got into his face didn't you?'. Mr Ruud said he could not recall doing so.

Mr Johnson: 'Is that the sort of thing you would do?' Mr Ruud said: 'No I'm not an aggressive person.'

Mr Ruud was shown a picture of the inside of the property, showing a view from the living room into the kitchen. He also confirmed he had visited the house on a number of occasions before Mr Preston had been stabbed to death.

Mr Johnson said: 'It doesn't look like that now does it, what's the difference?'. Mr Ruud said: 'It's boarded up.'

When asked why, he said he wasn't sure but 'I heard rumours it was on fire.' Mr Johnson said: 'Someone torched it didn't they?'

Mr Johnson asked Mr Ruud if he knew who had torched the home to which Mr Ruud replied: 'No idea.'

Earlier, under questioning from lead counsel for the prosecution, Mark Ford KC, Mr Ruud confirmed he had arranged a meal at Jumbo Chinese Restaurant on Princess Drive, Dovecot, on the night of June 7.

A group of men including Preston, Mr Holland, Mr Ruud, Preston's half-brother Darren Mulholland and others turned up and were recorded on CCTV drinking and snorting ketamine at the dinner table.

Damage caused by an arson attack on the home which was carried out after the fatal stabbing

After the meal the night continued in the Deysbrook Pub on Deysbrook Lane, West Derby, where the group carried on drinking and taking ketamine.

Preston, Mr Holland and Mr Ruud then took a taxi back to Preston's parents' home, who were on holiday in Egypt at the time.

He said within 13 minutes of his arrival, the mood changed and he was attacked by Preston. He said: 'I opened a beer, maybe had a couple of swigs of beer. Couple of balloons, then I got hit in the back of the head.'

Mr Ford asked whether the blow hurt, and Mr Ruud replied: 'It didn't put me on the floor like. I can just remember being backed into the corner as he tried to kick me. Joe was saying "what have you done? What have you done?", James is calling me a rat, I am saying "what are you on about?".'

Mr Ruud said that Preston stopped attacking him when Mr Holland intervened, and he realised he had a cut to his face.

He said: 'He stopped and then they carried on having more balloons. I said why have you done that, and I got no answer so I just left. I walked out then.'

Mr Ruud said he could not recall any reason for the attack. However under cross-examination, Mr Johnson suggested Preston had 'challenged' him because he was playing music too loud, which he worried would wake his elderly neighbour.

Mr Ruud said he could not recall.

After leaving the house he told the jury he walked home, and did not speak about the incident to anyone else until the following day.

Mr Ruud was later arrested on suspicion of Mr Holland's murder, but was released without charge.

The trial, at Liverpool Crown Court, continues.
The bodies of three Argentine climbers who died during an expedition at a prominent South American volcano were recovered Wednesday.

The victims, identified as Ignacio Lucero, 49, along with Sergio Berardo and Raul Espir, both 55, were reported missing Wednesday after they decided to continue the trek up the Cerro Marmolejo in Chile despite the inclement weather and without two Chilean hikers who had accompanied them.

The trio never made it back from the southernmost volcano in the world, which is located on the border between Argentina and Chile.

Their bodies were found Monday morning in an area of Cerro Marmolo located 15,748 feet above sea level.

The victims were found lying on the ground at least 164 feet from each other.

Chilean authorities were able to recover Wednesday morning the bodies of three Argentine hikers who were found dead Monday at Cerro Marmolejo, where they went missing last week during an expedition

Ignacio Lucero, of Argentina, had 30 years of hiking experience and was the tour guide who led the expedition at Cerro Marmolejo last week, where he and two other Argentine climbers died. All three men were located by rescued workers Monday morning but their bodies were not removed until Wednesday due to inclement weather

Raul Espir, one of three Argentine men who died during a hiking expedition in Chile, was the mayor of the central Argentina city of General San Martin

However, the search and rescue workers suspended the operation because of bad weather. They anchored the mountaineers to the ground and georeferenced them for a future recovery. The rescue mission was cancelled Tuesday because of strong wind gusts and the temperature had dipped below 5 Fahrenheit.

The rescue operation resumed Wednesday morning and was completed within two hours.

Chile's Attorney General's Office announced on X, formerly Twitter, that it was in contact with its Argentina counterpart to coordinate the repatriation of all three bodies and to offer support to the victims' families.

Chilean authorities are awaiting the results of an autopsy for each of the victims before they could be flown back to Argentina.

Sergio Bernardo was among three Argentine hikers whose bodies were removed Wednesday from Cerro Marmolejo, a mountain located between the border of Chile and Argentina

Chilean rescue workers carry the remains of one of the three Argentine hikers who were found dead at Cerro Marmolejo, the southernmost peak in the world

Cerro Marmolejo is located on border of Argentina and Chile. The peak is the southernmost in the world

Lucero had 30 years of hiking experience and in 2011 suffered a massive heart attack in Nepal while hiking at Mansaslu, the eighth-highest mountain in the world.

'I was dying, my heart and head were broken,' he said of his near-death experience several years ago at a TEDx talk. 'I knew I had to go down and that no one could help me.'

Espir was reelected this year as mayor of General San Martin, a city in the central province of La Pam this year.

Berardo was considered the least experienced hiker of the group.

It's unclear how the three men died while at the mountain.
The White House on Wednesday added its voice to a chorus of condemnation a day after the presidents of three of the country's most prestigious universities were grilled about their antisemitism policies.

The presidents of Harvard, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and UPenn all hummed and hawed when asked at a congressional hearing whether calls for genocide against Jewish people breached campus policies.

White House spokesman Andrew Bates slammed their responses.

'It's unbelievable that this needs to be said: Calls for genocide are monstrous and antithetical to everything we represent as a country,' he said.

'Any statements that advocate for the systematic murder of Jews are dangerous and revolting  and we should all stand firmly against them, on the side of human dignity and the most basic values that unite us as Americans.'

Liz Magill, president of the University of Pennsylvania, was asked Tuesday whether calls for genocide would constitute harassment: 'It is a context dependent decision'

The issue has exploded into view during the two months since Hamas terrorists killed 1200 Israelis.

College campuses have become focal points for protests against Israel and a bombing campaign that has killed at least 15,000 people in Gaza, according to the enclave's Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health.

But at times, students have used chants such as 'From the river to the sea,' which are interpreted in some quarters as calling for the destruction of Israel.

Harvard now faces a federal investigation over allegations of antisemitism and Islamophobia on campus.

Republicans on the House education and workforce committee quizzed the three presidents on their policies.

Rep. Elise Stefanik wanted to know whether a student calling for the genocide of Jewish people violated school policies.

Their answers were far from unequivocal, as each grappled with context and questions of free speech.

'That would be investigated as harassment if pervasive and severe, said Sally Kornbuth, president of M.I.T.

UPenn President Elizabeth Magill, said, 'If the speech turns into conduct, it can be harassment. Yes.'

Claudine Gay, President of Harvard University, testifies before the House Education and the Workforce Committee at the Rayburn Building in the US Capitol Tuesday

Sally Kornbluth, president of Massachusetts Institute of Technology, was also condemned in a fiery White House statement demanding that antisemitism be called out

'I am asking, specifically calling for the genocide of Jews,' responded Stefanik, 'does that constitute bullying or harassment?'

'If it is directed, and severe, pervasive, it is harassment,' answered Magill.

'So the answer is yes,' said Stefanik.

'It is a context dependent decision,' she replied.

And when Stefanik asked Harvard President Claudine Gay whether calling for the genocide of Jews violated Harvard's rules of bullying and harassment, she got the answer: 'It can be ... depending on the context.'

That triggered an angry wave of condemnation.

Yad Vashem, Israel's national Holocaust memorial museum, said the remarks revealed a 'willful' lack of accountability.

'The positions taken by the three university presidents in their testimonies highlight a basic ignorance of history, including the fact that the Holocaust did not start with ghettos or gas chambers but with hateful antisemitic rhetoric, decrees, and actions by senior academics, among other leaders of society,' it said.

Bill Ackman said all three women must resign 'in disgrace' after their testimony

At the White House, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was asked whether the three presidents should resign but said it was not for her to decide

Republican 2024 candidate Nikki Haley said she would take action if she were elected president.

'Calling for genocide of Jews is no different than calling for genocide of any other ethnic, racial, or religious group. The equivocation from these college presidents is disgusting,' she wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

'As POTUS, this will end or we'll pull their tax exempt status.'

Billionaire Bill Ackman, a Harvard graduate, led calls for heads to roll.

'They must all resign in disgrace,' he said. 'If a CEO of one of our companies gave a similar answer, he or she would be toast within the hour.

'Why has antisemitism exploded on campus and around the world?

'Because of leaders like Presidents Gay, Magill and Kornbluth who believe genocide depends on the context.'

At the White House, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was asked whether the three presidents should resign.

She said it was not for the White House to decide but added: 'It should be very easy to stand up and say ... we're going to call out any type of genocide, especially as we have seen against the Jewish community. Of course, we're going to call out antisemitism.

'I can't speak to how their process runs. That is not for me to speak to.'
Doctors treating a nurse whose ovarian cyst turned out to be a fatal cancer have admitted not being made aware she had undergone a scan, and working without full medical notes.

The failures came to light during a third day of evidence in an inquest about the death of Catherine Jones.

The cardiology nurse died in November 2016 at Maelor Hospital, in Wrexham, North Wales  where she worked  in what her family's barrister, Louis Browne KC, has called an 'avoidable' tragedy.

Dr Sujatha Kumari, a registrar, told how she saw Mrs Jones in October 2016, after cancer had returned to her abdomen.

It was four months after Mrs Jones, 35, had undergone surgery to remove a 2.5kg (5  lb) cancerous cyst from her right ovary and have a hysterectomy to supposedly prevent the cancer from coming back.

Catherine Jones (pictured), a cardiology nurse died in November 2016 at Maelor Hospital, in Wrexham, North Wales

Mrs Jones, 35, (pictured) had undergone surgery to remove a 2.5kg (5  lb) cancerous cyst from her right ovary

But Dr Kumari said that when she saw Mrs Jones, she hadn't known about another scan two weeks earlier.

Dr Sujatha Kumari agreed at the hearing at Ruthin, North Wales, that 'retrospectively', it would have been best practice to have seen the report of the scan.

The registrar, whose focus was on gynaecology, said she had asked for an urgent scan of Mrs Jones herself because of swelling on her stomach and expected the results in a further two weeks.

As well as her not being made aware of the earlier scan, Mr Browne, representing Mrs Jones's widower David and family, claimed 'guidelines were not followed'  because Dr Kumari was appointed to see her when she did not have specialist oncological training.

The doctor responded that Mr Browne's comments were not 'fair criticism', adding that the doctors worked 'as a team' in her clinic.

Another doctor, Issam Ahmed, a urology consultant, admitted that doctors sometimes had to work without the full medical notes for a patient.

Senior coroner John Gittins said to him: 'It seems to me you are working with one hand tied behind your back, you have got half the story. Is that a fair assessment?'

Dr Ahmed replied: 'Of course it would be helpful if we had the full picture.'

And Iqbal Shergill, a consultant urological surgeon at Maelor, run by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said access to medical records 'still remains a problem in terms of getting quick access especially on weekends'.

Mr Shergill added: 'Electronic records are increasingly being used throughout the health board.'

Earlier in the inquest, senior gynaecological oncologist, Philip Toon, told how he feared Mrs Jones had cancer when reviewing case notes about her treatment for an earlier ovarian cyst four years before her death in November 2016.

But surgery he recommended  and Mrs Jones wanted  which involved removing her right ovary and fallopian tube wasn't performed due to her young age.

Wrexham Maelor Hospital in North Wales (pictured) where Mrs Jones worked and had her operation

The inquest has heard the health board accepted a biopsy of the cyst taken in 2013 was reported wrongly as 'benign' when it had been 'borderline' cancerous.

Surgery was only carried out to drain the cyst in July 2013.

Since his wife's death, Mr Jones has fought to establish the truth about her care by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.

His solicitor Richard Jones has previously described the widower as 'Wales's answer to Erin Brockovich'  the single mum who managed to prove a power company was polluting a US city's water supply.

Brockovich's story was turned into a Hollywood blockbuster starring Julia Roberts.
A California man will spend the rest of his life behind bars after killing a prominent sex therapist who was once engaged to Drew Carey.

Gareth Pursehouse, 45, was hit with the stark sentence Wednesday - the maximum amount allowed after executions were halted by an official moratorium from Gov. Gavin Newsom earlier this year.

Just over two months ago, the disgraced comic - and accused stalker - found himself convicted of first-degree murder for killing 38-year-old Amie Harwick more than three years ago at her Hollywood Hills home.

There, Pursehouse - who was accused of stalking ex-girlfriend Harwick for ten years following a bad breakup - waited for hours before strangling the former Playboy model and throwing her body off the third-floor balcony.

He donned a dark-colored face mask and Carey-esque glasses in court Wednesday, as a judge told him he'll never see the streets again.

Scroll down for video:

Gareth Pursehouse donned a dark-colored face mask and Carey-esque glasses in court Wednesday as a judge told him he'll never see the streets again, three years after killing 38-year-old ex Amie Harwick at her Hollywood Hills home

The Price is Right host Drew Carey, 65, dated Harwick for two years before the pair split in 2018 - eight years after she broke it off with Pursehouse, who was also a comic

The sentence also stipulates that Pursehouse will never be granted parole during his incarceration, which will commence immediately at a California state prison.

It was issued after several members of the victims' family spoke before the court about how Pursehouse's actions have affected them indelibly.

As they chided the con - who dated Harwick for a year-and-half before allegedly harassing her for more than a decade - he hung his head solemnly, seemingly without expression.

Among those to speak were Tom Harwick, the slain marriage and sex counselor's father - and Penny Harwick, the woman's mother. Others included relatives and friends affected by the murder, which prosecutors proved was premeditated.

Harwick's father began: 'My name is Tom Harwick, and I am the forever grieving father of my dearly departed daughter Amie.

'I will be reading the following words from a paper out of fear I will forget, but you may be assured that these words are being recited from deep within my heart.'

He proceeded to thank the presiding judge, prosecutors, and jury for bringing justice to his family following his daughter's killing, as well as the Los Angeles emergency officials who originally responded to the crime scene on the night of February 15, 2020, after neighbors reported hearing screams from her apartment.

'I am totally grateful for the services you've rendered to me an my family during this horrible ordeal,' he continued, adding, 'justice to Amie has been served.'

Penny, meanwhile, lamented the time lost with her daughter, noting how it's been 'almost four years' since she was killed.

The sentence was issued after members of Harwick's family told the court how Pursehouse's actions have affected them. Among those to speak were Tom Harwick seen here, the slain sex counselor's father, who said in an emotional address: 'justice to Amie has been served'

Penny, meanwhile, lamented the time lost with her daughter, noting how it's been 'almost four years' since she was killed

As they chided the con - who dated Harwick for a year-and-half before allegedly harassing her for more than a decade - he hung his head solemnly, without expression

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge George Lomeli sat and heard the statements before doling out his decision

Pursehouse did not speak during his sentencing, after electing not to testify in his defense during his September trial

The judge also ordered Pursehouse pay $7,500 for Harwicks funeral costs - for a ceremony that Carey himself attended

Pursehouse was found guilty of murder and first-degree residential burglary with a special circumstance allegation of lying in wait by a jury on Thursday

He will also be responsible for restitution to Harwicks parents for travel, lodging and food costs associated with the court proceedings

Kelly Kathleen, a friend of Amie, is seen wiping away tears during a press conference after Lomeli announced the sentence

Harwick was found unconscious after falling from a third-floor balcony in her home, pictured

As the two spoke, Pursehouse sat silent, after electing not to testify in his defense during the September trial. Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge George Lomeli listened to the statements before doling out his decision.

The judge also ordered Pursehouse to pay $7,500 for Harwicks funeral costs - for a ceremony that Carey himself attended.

He will also be responsible for restitution to Harwicks parents for travel, lodging and food costs associated with the court proceedings, after which jurors deliberated for two days before finding Pursehouse guilty of Harwick's killing.

He was also hit with a charge for the first-degree burglary of Harwick's home, as well as a special circumstance allegation of murder while 'lying in wait', hiding around the victim's three story home before she arrived.

Carey, meanwhile, was not present for Wednesday's proceedings, but previously spoke about Amie's murder in a 2022 interview with 48 Hours.

There, he shared the final text exchange he shared with his ex two days before she was killed, while revealing she had been worried about Pursehouse even while they were dating.

'When I heard that she got murdered, right away, I thought: "Its gotta be that guy,' the former Whose Line Is It Anyway host said at the time.

Harwick dated Pursehouse until 2010 when they broke up and she got a protective order against him and told friends she was afraid of him

Carey, 65, was not present for Wednesday's proceedings, but previously spoke about Amie's murder in an interview with 48 Hours. There, he shared the final text exchange days before she was killed, while revealing she had been worried about Pursehouse while they were dating

'I got a text from her [two days before], 'I would love to get together with you and talk,' the 65-year-old continued. 'I said, "Yeah, I would love to do that. I love you"'

When the interviewers asked if he was 'sad' he "never got that chance' to meet with Amie, the comic teared up. 'I never got it,' he said. 'I never had a chance to do it'

Harwick, meanwhile, was a prominent licensed marriage and sex therapist in the Hollywood area. She appeared on multiple TV and radio shows penned a book called The New Sex Bible for Women, released in 2014

As for Pursehouse - who pleaded not guilty to her murder - his sentence will begin immediately

'I got a text from her [two days before], 'I would love to get together with you and talk,' the 65-year-old continued. 'I said, "Yeah, I would love to do that. I love you."'

When 48 Hours correspondent Erin Moriarty asked if he was 'sad' he "never got that chance', the comic teared up.

'I never got it,' he said. 'I never had a chance to do it.'

At a point, the interview urged Carey that Harwick loved him, to which he responded: 'That's the big solace I get from it, is that she loved me... And I'm glad I could get that message to her before she died.'

Harwick, meanwhile, was a prominent licensed marriage and sex therapist in the Hollywood area. She appeared on multiple TV and radio shows penned a book called The New Sex Bible for Women, released in 2014.

As for Pursehouse - who pleaded not guilty to her murder - his sentence will begin immediately.
The family of a 17-year-old boy are 'reeling from shock' after the teenager was stabbed to death in south London.

A teenage boy was attacked by knifeman near Sutton railway station, a busy area on Sutton High Street, at around 7pm on Tuesday,

The Met Police confirmed that the boy's next of kin had been informed and and were 'being supported by specialist officers' in the aftermath of the horror attack.

Detective Chief Inspector Mike Nolan, who is leading the investigation, said: 'This afternoon as Londoners go about their day, a family is reeling from the shock of losing a young family member to violence in our city.'

'Our investigation, though in its early stages, is moving at a pace and while we work to establish the circumstances,' he added.

A police officer stands guard behind a cordon on Sutton high street after a teenage boy, 17, was stabbed to death

Officers gather near the scene near Sutton station which was closed with trains not expected to be running until 5am this morning

A large police presence could be seen as officers stand guard at the scene. Scotland Yard has launched a manhunt for the attacker

Met Police officers and London Ambulance Service (LAS) paramedics rushed to the scene, but despite the efforts of emergency services battling to save his life, the teenager 'died as a result of his injuries', according to the Met.

No arrests have been made and police have launched an urgent manhunt for the attacker.

The area was sealed off and Sutton station remains closed with trains not expected to run until 5am this morning.

The attack came on the same night mother Lianne Gordon, 42, was shot dead and two others were rushed to hospital with gunshot wounds in Hackney.

A teenage boy, 16, and 20-year-old man were also rushed to a major trauma centre following the attack where their conditions are being assessed.
A neurologist in San Jose is suing a Thai restaurant over claims its $11 spicy 'Dragon Balls' caused internal burns and left her with permanent injuries.

Harjasleen Walia filed a lawsuit against Coup de Thai and alleged the chicken appetizer chemically burned her vocal cords, esophagus and the inside of her right nostril.

The medic said she went to eat at the Los Gatos restaurant with a friend in July 2021 and the dish was advertised as spicy so she asked the server for them to be made with less spice.

Walia, who does not tolerate spice well, claimed the employee 'said that they would have the chef make them less spicy.'

Walia alleged that almost immediately after eating the Dragon Balls she 'felt her entire mouth, the roof of her mouth, her tongue, her throat and her nose burn like fire.'

She pointed to the 'bird's eye' chili pepper in the dish as the problematic ingredient. The 'bird's eye' is a pepper native to Mexico its spice level falls between 50,000 and 100,000 Scoville units. A Bell pepper is zero and a Jalapeno falls between 2,500 and 8,000 on the scale.

Harjasleen Walia, a neurologist in San Jose, is suing a Thai restaurant over claims its $11 spicy 'Dragon Balls' caused internal burns and left her with permanent injuries

She filed a lawsuit against Coup de Thai an alleged the chicken appetizer chemically burned her vocal cords, esophagus and the inside of her right nostril

The doctor, who specializes in treating brain injuries and headaches, added her 'eyes and nose watered, and she began coughing'.

She also started to lose her voice and was diagnosed with internal 'chemical burns' from the chilis, according to the lawsuit.

'A new employee who prepared the dish made an error and added additional peppers, rather than reducing them as requested,' it read.

She is suing the restaurant and its owner Tanatcha Swangchaeng along with the unnamed chef who cooked the dish and the unnamed waitress who took her order.

Coup de Thai has denied her allegations and said it did not cause injury to her.

The doctor is also taking legal action against anyone at the restaurant that day or before who 'in any way influenced, designed, prepared, or participated in creating the Dragon Ball dish'.

Walia also accused the defendants of not training staff 'to serve Thai iced tea or some other dairy-based product if a customer had a bad reaction to spice intensity.'

Dragon Balls on the Coup de Thai website are described as 'spicy chicken' meatballs which include mint, shallot, green onion, cilantro, kaffir lime leaf and chili

She allegedly 'drank an entire glass of coconut water and more water, but the burning did not subside'.

Dragon Balls on the Coup de Thai website are described as 'spicy chicken' meatballs which include mint, shallot, green onion, cilantro, kaffir lime leaf and chili.

A supervisor at Coup de Thai previously claimed it is not possible for the appetizer to be made in a mild way as the chilis are already contained inside.

Physician Dr. Kelly Johnson-Arbor said that eating Thai chilis can cause irritation to the mouth and throat as well as cause nausea and heartburn, according to The Mercury News.

But she added that 'they are not associated with permanent tissue damage.'

In a filing on November 20, the restaurant and Swangchaeng said an investigation into the incident was 'ongoing.'

Walia has called for a jury trial and is seeking unspecified damages, medical expenses and compensation for alleged lost earnings.

Both sides have insisted they are willing to potentially mediate and resolve the dispute.

DailyMail.com has contacted Walia and Coup de Thai for comment.
The English National Opera has announced it is relocating to Manchester following row over funding, but cultural critics have slammed the decision as 'sheer madness'.

The headquarters of the respected opera company was forced out of the capital after Arts Council England (ACE) adjusted its funding plans.

Controversially, ACE went as far as to threaten to axe its annual 12million grant if the opera refused to find a new location.

The company considered Birmingham, Bristol, Liverpool and Nottingham as its potential new home but eventually settled on Manchester instead.

But the announcement received massive backlash from Londoners, who called the move 'sheer madness' as the North already has its own opera company. One critic said the relocation will 'decimate London and the UK for no reason'.

The empty auditorium of the London Coliseum, current home of the English National Opera

Banners advertising operas being performed by the English National Opera, in central London

Those living in and around London took to social media to fume about the decision

However, those living up in the north of England welcomed the news, with one Mancunian quipping: 'We'll get the kettle on'.

The English National Opera (ENO) announced the move will take place by 2029.

It comes after an agreement was reached with ACE in July, in which 24million was given to the company to 'develop an artistic programme in a new base outside of London'.

But ENO will still own and perform at its current home, the London Coliseum.

The relocation of the company has been a controversial one, met by opposition from those within ENO and by many in the cultural world.

One opera fan commented: 'Vandals. Short-sighted, unimaginative, ideological vandals. Decimating London and the UK for no reason whatsoever. Pathetic.'

Another Londoner said: 'This could just harm Opera North and certainly harms our capital citys cultural prowess.

'Ive never been anywhere other than ENO as it has always been brilliant and affordable. If theres demand in Manchester, start a branch not relocate.'

One opera performer commented: 'This is sheer madness. Opera North is the company of the north.

'ENO needs to stay in London. Its world class opera for all and everyone can come to London to see it.'

One fan, who commutes into London from Somerset to see the opera, said: 'How sad. Yet again the West Country is left behind.'

Others commented 'shocking decision', labelling it 'short-sighted' and 'bad news all round'.

The interior of the ENO's home base the Coliseum Theatre in St Martin's Lane

Musician John Smith joined those mourning London's loss of the ENO

Tenor David Butt Philip, who has performed with ENO, wrote on X: 'Unsurprisingly, this statement is more notable for what it doesn't say than what it does.

'No clues as to where or how often performances in Manchester will take place, and, more ominously, no mention of whether the current chorus, orchestra or technical team will be involved.'

READ MORE - Controversial plan to relocate the English National Opera to outside London is postponed by three years as the Arts Council gives it until 2029 to move Advertisement

John Smith OBE, President of the International Federation of Musicians, said: 'Spare a thought for the members of the orchestra and chorus - the heart of any opera company - who now have to decide whether to relocate on part-time contracts, or leave. Looks like the end of ENO as a national company.'

Manchester is currently the biggest city in Europe without a resident opera company.

The row led Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to initially say: 'If you can't come willingly, don't come at all.'

However, he has now said he is 'immensely proud to be able to bring them to a new home here in Greater Manchester'.

He said: 'The ENO is one of the most exciting cultural institutions in the country, and we're immensely proud to be able to bring them to a new home here in Greater Manchester.

'We've worked closely with them to set out a shared vision for a future in our city-region, where they can continue making groundbreaking opera, foster new collaborations with artists across the North, and bring their award-winning learning and wellbeing programmes to communities here.

'Greater Manchester's world-renowned history of radical art, activism, and affecting change, and the cultural renaissance taking place across our towns and cities, makes it the ideal home for the ENO. We can't wait to welcome them and see where this new partnership takes us.'

The row led Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham (pictured) to initially say: 'If you can't come willingly, don't come at all' but he has since changed his tune

Some users on X posted in support of the relocation to Manchester

Jenny Mollica, Chief Executive of the ENO, said: 'As we continue to transition through significant change, today's announcement marks an important and defining moment for our remarkable company.

'This future direction will see us continue to expand our role as a national institution  supporting our mission to create work with and for even more audiences across the country, alongside our annual season at the London Coliseum.

'Throughout our discussions with partners and stakeholders in Greater Manchester, we have been struck by an emerging vision for the future of ENO and operatic work in the city-region, defined by a shared ambition to open up new possibilities for opera in people's lives.

'We look forward to embarking on new adventures with partners, artists and audiences across Greater Manchester as we create a range of operatic repertoire at a local, national and international scale, inspired by the extraordinary cultural vibrancy of Greater Manchester and its communities.

'We hugely appreciate the generosity, enthusiasm and time given throughout this robust process by all the cities involved, and are heartened by the warmth and openness we have received from Greater Manchester's cultural sector and city-region leaders as we look ahead to a bright shared future together.'
A father who was so drunk he was staggering and dribbling while in charge of a toddler in a public place has avoided jail.

Worse-for-wear Luke Rippingale, 40, was seen clutching a pint at a bowling alley while the two-year-old girl was left crying on the floor and wearing no nappy.

He was arrested after concerned staff contacted police. Checks revealed he had been refused entry at a pub because he was so drunk.

The MOT garage owner admitted being drunk in charge of a child under the age of seven at a previous hearing where prosecutor Nicola Lamb told magistrates: He was staggering around and dribbling and he had left the child on the floor. He beckoned the child to him but she refused to leave and was upset.

The manager was so concerned that they called the police, who took both him and the child into custody.

Worse-for-wear Luke Rippingale, 40, (pictured) was seen clutching a pint at a bowling alley while the two-year-old girl was left crying on the floor and wearing no nappy

Rippingale, a father-of-two, had been drinking with a friend in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, on August 20 and was heading home to Ely in Cambridgeshire when he decided to continue boozing while waiting for a connecting train in Norwich.

Norwich Magistrates Court heard he was refused entry to the Queen of Iceni pub and ended up at the citys Hollywood Bowl.

Very foolishly, he had not waited at the train station, Ms Lamb added.

He was clearly under the influence at the time when he should have been looking after the child. There is absolutely nothing more he can say other than to apologise. He takes full responsibility.

The charge carries a maximum one-month jail term and magistrates had warned Rippingale that all options were open when they adjourned the case in September for a pre-sentence report.

He returned to the court today where he was given a one-year community order with alcohol abstinence monitoring until March 4 next year and 15 days of rehabilitation activity. He was also fined 230, with costs of 105 and victim surcharge of 114.

Rippingale was not available to comment afterwards and his mother Sally, 73, revealed she had been left in the dark about the incident.

I dont know much about it. He hasnt told me anything, she told the Mail.

Norwich Magistrates Court heard he was refused entry to the Queen of Iceni pub and ended up at the citys Hollywood Bowl

But a friend, who asked not to be named, said: Hell have learned his lesson. Its embarrassing and something to move on from as quickly as possible. We all make mistakes.

Being drunk in charge of a child under the age of seven is illegal under the 1902 Licensing Act, although prosecutions are rare and cases are usually passed to social services.

The law states that a maximum 500 fine or up to a month in jail can be imposed if any person is found drunk in any highway or other public place, or on any licensed premises, while having the charge of a child.

There is no specific alcohol limit, with the legal threshold being whether the adults ability to look after the child is compromised.

An online debate about the law was sparked in 2020 when a Wetherspoons pub in Gravesend, Kent, put up a poster saying parents with children on the premises were limited to two alcoholic drinks.

The poster stated: As part of our licensing it is our responsibility to ensure that we are protecting children from harm.

Therefore adults in charge of children will be allowed to have one alcoholic drink and a further alcoholic drink with a sit-down meal.

Wetherspoons admitted the pub chain had a guideline  though not a policy of limiting adults to two alcoholic drinks if they were with children.

A spokesman said: The manager took the decision to put the poster in the pub to emphasise to customers that she would not allow parents to drink while their children were running around uncontrolled in the pub.
The suspect accused of gunning down four random strangers in Central LA Last week may have paid for his murderous spree with a $700,000 settlement from local police, authorities have revealed.

Jerrid Powell has been charged with the murder of four men, three of them homeless, between November 26 and 29.

The 33-year-old is thought to have snuck up on his homeless victims while they were sleeping in the street, and followed dad-of-two Nicholas Simbolon, 42, to his home in San Dimas before gunning him down in his garage.

Now it has emerged that he may have paid for his car and his weapons with money he was awarded by the City of Santa Monica after a patrol officer ran over him in 2019 while he was lying on a beach.

'The City settled the lawsuit claiming negligence after a Santa Monica Harbor Services Officer, after responding to a call reporting a fire on the beach, rolled over the plaintiff who was laying in a six to eight-inch-deep ditch in the sand,' a city spokesperson confirmed in a statement.

Jerrid Powell appeared at Los Angeles Superior Court for an arraignment hearing on Monday

Powell, 33, was arrested in Beverley Hills just hours after police released security footage

LA police chief Michel Moore who announced Powell's arrest was also in charge of overhauling the city's fleet of beach vehicles after the suspect won a $700,000 pay-out

Police arrested Powell in Beverly Hills on Thursday after spotting his BMW which was caught on camera near the scene of Simbolon's murder on Tuesday.

Police believe he followed the LA County project manager from an electric-vehicle charging station in West Covina and 'senselessly' shot him at his home 12 miles away before he could get out of his Tesla.

Simbolon's wife found his body and paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.

A handgun found in Powell's car was then found to match that used in the killing of the three homeless men, Los Angeles Police Chief Michel Moore said.

Powell was described as 'vicious' after he was convicted in 2018 of assault with a deadly weapon in San Bernadino County for which he was sentenced to three years of probation.

In May 2019, LAPD announced they had overhauled their fleet of beach vehicles after a separate incident in which they had run over a woman on a beach.

A 36-year-old called 'Aurora' spent three days in hospital with broken ribs after she was run over by a 'full-sized police truck' while lying on the sand at Venice Beach on Easter Sunday.

'In response to the incident, Chief Michel Moore directed the immediate requisition of new vehicles and vehicle safety enhancements in preparation for the Memorial Day Weekend,' the LAPD said in a statement at the time.

Powell filed his lawsuit in 2020 alleging negligence before the city agreed his settlement earlier this year.

He had already tried to sue a landlord for $3.3 million with a handwritten lawsuit in 2019 alleging he had been the victim of intentional emotional damage and sexual harassment, before a judge threw out the case.

Jose Bolanos, 37, was found shot dead in a South LA alley at about 3am on November 26.

Mark Diggs, 62, was shot and killed in the downtown area at 5am the following day while he was pushing a shopping cart.

And a 52-year-old homeless man whose name has not yet been released was gunned down at about 2.30am on November 29 in the Lincoln Heights area.

Powell appeared in court on Monday for an arraignment hearing where he was charged with four counts of murder, one count of residential robbery and one count of being a felon with a firearm.

He did not enter a plea and is due back in court on January 8.

LAPD officers struck another beachgoer on the sand around the time Powell was hit

Powell is charged with four counts of murder, one count of residential robbery and one count of being a felon with a firearm and will reappear in court on January 8

His BMW was caught on camera near the scene of one of the murders

Mark Diggs, 62, was shot and killed in the downtown area at 5am on November 27 while he was pushing a shopping cart

Police believe that the same person is responsible for all four killi

LA County Sheriff Robert Luna defended the use of the contentious license plate reader which has been challenged by civil liberties groups but which identified Powell's car.

'We know there's controversy out there about the usage of this system, but let me tell our community something,' he told a press conference after the arrest.

'If we did not enter that plate into the system, this individual that we believe is responsible for at least four murders may have been out there and reoffended.

'The next objective is to put this guy away at minimum forever, because he doesn't deserve to be out on the street.'
Newsom was slammed online, by both pro-Palestinians and individuals accusing the governor of cowering in fear for cancelling the event

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has fearfully bowed out of his state's annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony - canceling the celebrated event ahead of planned pro-Palestinian protests demanding an end to Israel's war against Hamas.

Newsom canceled the beloved event opting for a smaller, pre-tape, remote celebration in its place.

A spokesperson for the governor said the last-minute cancellation was over 'safety concerns' ahead of multiple planned protests.

'As we continue to see protests across the country impacting the safety of events of all scales  and for the safety and security of all participating members and guests including children and families  the ceremony this year will be virtual. The program is unchanged and viewers can tune in Wednesday evening to watch this year's festivities,' a Newsom spokesperson said Tuesday afternoon.

The tree lighting is a celebratory annual Christmas event and dates to the 1930's. But, for the 92nd version, the governor has decided to cower to fear of pro-Palestine protests.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom canceled the public event set to take place Wednesday evening, and announced a remote, pre-recorded event in its place (pictured: The tree lighting ceremony in 2022)

The tree lighting is a celebratory annual Christmas event dating to the 1930's. The 92nd tree lighting this year will be hosted by Gov. Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom

Despite the canceletion of the in-person event, nearly 200 people still protested outside the Capitol Tuesday evening

Newsom claimed the program is unchanged other than the fact that it's remote and nobody will be in attendance- not even Santa.

Despite the cancelation of the in-person event, nearly 200 people still protested outside the Capitol Tuesday evening, according to KCRA.

Newsom's announcement has sparked widespread backlash from pro-Palestinian groups who accuse him of 'ignoring their pain.'

'Governor Newsom decided to cancel the tree lighting ceremony rather than face the public that is enraged by his shameful silence on the genocide in Gaza,' Yassar Dahbour of the Sacramento Regional Coalition for Palestinian Rights told the San Francisco Chronicle in a statement.

A disgruntled member of Youth for Palestine said, 'It's upsetting to see my governor, who I have voted for and supported for many years, chose to alter his plans in such a quiet manner because he is not able to face the public.'

'He has chosen to not be visible or available to citizens and his voters. He is too concerned having public debates with others than to address the pain, anguish, and needs of Californians.'

Newsom was also slammed online, by individuals outraged over the decision to cancel a joyous holiday celebration and accusing the governor of cowering in fear.

'What message does that send that they are afraid to celebrate Christmas? Newsom is a loser,' one commented.

Newsom's announcement has sparked widespread backlash from pro-Palestinian groups who accuse him of 'ignoring their pain'

A spokesperson for the governor said the last-minute cancellation was over 'safety concerns' ahead of multiple planned protests

'This sums it up nicely. Newsom can't control his state, so he takes away privileges from his citizens and keeps them for himself. Like we all knew he would,' another disappointed user wrote.

'Maybe he shouldn't allow these pro-Palestinian movements to run rampant in the streets and they could have their planned events,' a third commented.

Elon Musk even gave his two cents, commenting, 'Wow' on Newsom's announcement on X.

Weeks after the war in Israel began, Newsom visited the country and met with government officials and survivors of the October 7 terrorist attacks that killed 1,400 and left an estimated 240 kidnapped.

Visiting Israel after the Hamas massacre strengthened Newsom's sympathy for Israelis reeling from the horrific massacre.

'The worst part about it  the actual video, I saw heads, beheaded people, their bodies, lay there, dead. To see someone's eyes and mouth being poked to see if they were alive, to find out they were alive after being shot on the ground,' he said in October.

'It connects to an understanding of the emotion of the Israelis about the atrocities that occurred, and about the 1,400 lives lost. It's not intellectual any longer.'

Pro-Palestinians protests around the world, including in the US, Europe and Australia, have turned violent in recent weeks.

Weeks after the war in Israel began, Newsom visited the country and met with government officials and survivors of the October 7 terrorist attacks that killed 1,400 and left an estimated 240 kidnapped

In Washington, DC, roughly 150 activists 'violently and illegally' protested outside the Democratic National Committee headquarters in November.

Protestors clashed with police outside of DNC headquarters as pro-Palestine groups flooded the front facility and violence erupted.

Officers have already made at least one arrest for assault on an officer after 150 activists surged towards the Washington, DC, building on Wednesday night.

The incident left six police officers injured from cuts, pepper spray and being punched.

A Democrat lawmaker inside the DNC headquarters that night said they were more scared when violent pro-Palestinian protesters descended on the building than during the January 6 Capitol riot.

Protesters are seen in Caulfield on Friday evening

Protestors carried photos of those affected by the Israel-Palestine conflict

In the same month, hundreds of pro-Palestine protesters clashed with police at one of Australia's largest ports - with extraordinary video showing a baby in a pram being carried to safety.

About 23 people were arrested as they tried to block a cargo ship operated by Israeli shipping line Zim from coming into port.

The protest began peacefully but quickly escalated after police blocked up to 400 demonstrators from marching down one of the roads at the port.

Protesters were pepper sprayed and taken away in handcuffs after another pro-Palestine demonstration descended into violence outside a popular burger joint that burnt down in Australia.

An estimated 400 protesters from both sides of the Israel-Palestine debate clashed at Princes Park near the Burgertory restaurant in Caulfield, Melbourne's south-east. Caulfield has a significant Jewish population.

Wild footage showed a huge scuffle kick off between the two groups, made up of approximately 200 members each, with many seen throwing punches as police tried to intervene.

Police had to split opposing sides to either side of the street to avoid violence in the Palestine-Israel protest on Friday night

Palestine Action recently drove a van into a drone factory in Leicester because of its Israeli military contacts

In the UK, a hardline pro-Palestine protest group linked to Extinction Rebellion is urging its supporters to vandalize businesses, government buildings and local councils that flew the Israeli flag after the Hamas terror attacks.

An undercover Mail on Sunday reporter attended virtual meetings held by Palestine Action (PA).

The group recently targeted a Leicester drone factory due to its Israeli military contracts and sprayed paint on the front of the BBCs London headquarters to protest against what it views as pro-Israeli coverage by the broadcaster.

Some of its leading members have made rabid anti-Semitic comments. They urged members to launch a campaign of violence and intimidation against 50 firms and institutions, whose addresses it published on its website.

Palestine Action was founded in 2020 by Richard Barnard, an ex-Extinction Rebellion activist, and Huda Ammori, an ex-campaign officer for the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, which has organized anti-Israel marches in London.
Sunny Hostin shocked co-hosts on The View today by defending the embattled presidents of Harvard, UPenn and MIT for their remarks on antisemitism, claiming the universities are powerless to act against calls for Jew genocide.

The three university leaders are facing growing calls for their resignations over comments about campus antisemitism yesterday.

While all three condemned antisemitism, they claimed calls for the genocide of Jewish people were not a breach of their codes of conduct, and therefore allowed.

Amid a boycott of donors and swell of public backlash, Harvard President Claudine Gay walked-back her remarks today.

Hostin believes she spoke rightfully.

Sunny Hostin defended the college presidents of UPenn, Harvard and MIT today, saying they are powerless to go beyond the law with their codes of conduct

Harvard President Claudine Gay at the congressional hearing yesterday where she said calling for the genocide of Jews does not violate the school's code of conduct

During a segment on the show today, she said their remarks followed suit with the First Amendment, which protects all forms of speech.

'Free speech, many people may feel uncomfortable with it, the most heinous speech is the most protected speech. What you heard was them saying it depends on the context - if someone yells at a crowd racial slurs or calls for genocide in a public place, that is protected speech.

'The law protects that kind of language. In my opinion, college is the perfect place to have these uncomfortable places,' she said.

When co-host Alyssa Farah Griffith pointed out that the universities can go 'further' than the law in their codes of conduct for acceptable behavior, Hostin claimed she was wrong.

'No they can't. It can't go against the Constitution of the United States. The code of conduct must adhere to law,' Hostin quipped.

When co-host Alyssa Farah Griffith pointed out that the universities can go 'further' than the law in their codes of conduct for acceptable behavior, Hostin claimed she was wrong

Sara Haines said the silence of the schools on the issue of antisemitism is 'defeaning'

Whoopi Goldberg condemned the college presidents too. She said there is 'no grey area' when it comes to threatening violence

UNIVERSITY PRESIDENTS GRILLED OVER ANTISEMITISM: With protests over the Israel-Hamas war leading to an increase in antisemitic speech on some college campuses, #TheView co-hosts weigh in on university leaders' testimony in front of Congress. https://t.co/cVclFZQmjA pic.twitter.com/Dw6klrBZj0  The View (@TheView) December 6, 2023

She then used an argument about a KKK member not facing jail for racist remarks.

'The law is the law - a lot of people don't understand the law,' she pushed on.

Farah Griffith hit back: 'This is about campus codes of conduct not the law. They can go a lot further.'

She blasted the congressional testimony as 'the most stunning' she'd ever heard.

'All three must resign,' fumed Farah Griffith.

Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar and Sara Haines also blasted the school presidents' for their comments.

'These are students at school - this is not the government intervening in free speech. There are examples of people that were let go from their jobs without any due process, professors that said something that made a college student uncomfortable.

Students protesting for the liberation of Palestine 'by any means necessary' at a protest in New York on Nov 15

'We were all quick to respond to this. The silence is deafening to me,' said Haines.

Behar, likening the abuse of Jewish students to discrimination against other races, said: 'These students should feel safe and not be at the mercy of these attacks.

'I protested back in the day but we were not intimidating anybody.'

Goldberg also condemned the leaders for their remarks.

'There is no justification - either it is or it isn't. It's not grey. It's not a grey area.

'We have to figure out how to work [free speech] so that everybody gets protected,' she said.

When asked if the calling of genocide of Jewish people constituted bullying or harassment, all three school leaders said yesterday that it depends on 'the context'.

Gay said it would only rise to a violation of rules if hate speech crossed into 'conduct'.

After ferocious backlash and a donor boycott, Gay released a statement today insisting she'd been misunderstood.

'There are some who have confused a right to free expression with the idea that Harvard will condone calls for violence against Jewish students.

'Let me be clear: Calls for violence or genocide against the Jewish community, or any religious or ethnic group are vile, they have no place at Harvard, and those who threaten our Jewish students will be held to account,' she said.

Neither UPenn nor MIT have corrected their president's comments.

It came as the White House joined condemnation of the women's remarks.

'Its unbelievable that this needs to be said: calls for genocide are monstrous and antithetical to everything we represent as a country.

'Any statements that advocate for the systematic murder of Jews are dangerous and revolting  and we should all stand firmly against them, on the side of human dignity and the most basic values that unite us as Americans,' Deputy White House Press Secretary Andrew Bates said in a statement.
An unsatisfied Ohio woman has been ordered to work at a fast food chain for two months in lieu of a prison sentence after throwing a burrito bowl at a Chipotle employee.

Rosemary Hayne, 39, was captured on camera hurling a bowl of chicken burrito at Emily Russell, 26, the store manager at a Chipotle in Parma, Ohio, in September.

Hayne pleaded guilty to one count of assault last week and was initially sentenced to three months in jail.

Judge Timothy Gilligan ordered her to serve two months through employment, working at least 20 hours per week at a fast-food restaurant.

'You didn't get your burrito bowl the way you like it and this is how you respond?' he said during sentencing.

'This is not real housewives of Parma. This behavior is not acceptable.'

Rosemary Hayne, 39, was captured on camera hurling an entire bowl of chicken burrito at Emily Russell, 26, a store manager at a Chipotle in Parma, Ohio

Hayne has been sentenced to work at a fast-food chain for two months in lieu of a prison sentence after being found guilty of one count of assault

Russell told the court that she had been traumatized by the assault and had to quit her job at Chipotle, where she had worked for more than four years

A viral video shows Hayne confronting Russell angrily when she brought her order to the counter.

She forcibly throws the entire bowl in the worker's face, leaving her drenched in a mix of food and sauce.

Hayne then exited the store, continuing to shout at the worker, as bystanders were left in shock by the unexpected attack.

She apologized to Russell in court, but said she was not happy with the way her food was prepared, FOX 8 reported.

'If I showed you how my food looked and how my food looked a week later from that same restaurant, it's disgusting looking,' Hayne said.

Judge Gilligan was not buying the explanation when she sentenced Hayne.

'I bet you won't be happy with the food you are going to get in the jail,' he said.

Russell told the court that she had been traumatized by the assault and had to quit her job at Chipotle.

'She started screaming at me.  The next thing I knew she threw the food in my face. I was so embarrassed and in shock.' Russell told the Washington Post.

Russell said she was protecting a 17-year-old employee who was being yelled at by Hayne when she ended up covered in food.

She had remade Hayne's order twice and added extra protein, but Hayne returned and abruptly hurled the bowl in her face.

Russell added that the freshly prepared food was at a scorching 200 degrees and left her face burning red.

A viral video shows Hayne screaming at Russell in a Chipotle and hurling an entire burrito bowl at her face earlier this year

Hayne apologized to Russell at the court, but said she was not happy with how her food was prepared

The Chipotle worker also said she had remade Hayne's order twice and added extra protein, but Hayne returned and abruptly hurled the bowl in her face

Parma police Lt. Dan Ciryak corroborated Russell's account: 'The manager said a customer named Rosemary complained about her food, so she made her order twice in order to help remedy the situation.'

Police also said Russell had a 'slight redness to the side of her face where she was hit,' according to Cleveland.com.

Minutes after a 911 call was made to report the assault, police found Hayne at her home and arrested her.

'It was pretty easy to locate her, as the caller provided her license plate information and the female's receipt displayed her first name as Rosie along with her phone number,' Ciryak said.

Judge Gilligan asked Hayne: 'Do you want to walk in her shoes for two months and learn how people should treat people or you want to do your jail time.'

'I'd like to walk in her shoes,' Hayne said, adding that she planned to get a job at a fast food store.

The judge told a FOX reporter after the sentencing: 'So I thought, why should the city taxpayers pay for her and feed her for 90 days in the jail if I can teach her a sense of empathy?'

Russell said she's pleased with the sentencing: 'She didn't get a slap on the wrist, so she's gonna learn how to work in fast food and hopefully it will be good'

The former store manager who had worked at Chipotle for four years quitted her job shortly after the assault

Russell said Chipotle was not supportive following the assault and 'it was mentally and physically getting hard'

Russell said she's pleased with the sentencing: 'She didn't get a slap on the wrist, so she's gonna learn how to work in fast food and hopefully it will be good.'

The former store manager who had worked at Chipotle for four years quitted her job shortly after the assault.

'It was mentally and physically getting hard on me. Working 65 hour weeks, no raises, no appreciation. I just had enough,' she wrote in a social media post.

She found a job at Raising Canes and got a raise and promoted a month after working at the fast-food chain.

'The health and safety of our employees is our greatest priority, and we're pleased to see justice served for any individual that does not treat our team members with the respect they deserve,' a spokesperson with Chipotle said.
San Francisco is facing its deadliest year ever for drug overdose deaths with 692 people dying so far this year - more than in the whole of 2022.

The city is on track for over 800 deaths this year - which would top its highest year on record, 2020, when 726 people died.

The rise in drug deaths goes hand in hand with a crime wave which has forced businesses to shut down and emptied the city center.

August was the deadliest month, with someone dying from an overdose every nine hours on average - while in October, an average of two people died each day.

So far this year, 572 of the deaths - 80 percent - have been caused by a fentanyl overdose - as the city tries a raft of policies to end the deaths as experts say 'clearly the city has not done well enough'.

San Francisco is on track for its deadliest year ever for drug overdoses, with 692 people dying before November and the total predicted to hit over 800

Open use drug addicts in the Tenderloin District of San Francisco - Fentanyl is the leading driver of drug overdose deaths in the United States, as well as San Francisco

Fentanyl, is a potent synthetic opioid that's frequently trafficked from Mexico and can kill in even tiny quantities. The drug is 50-100 times stronger than morphine.

It is cheap, packs down small, is relatively easy to smuggle into the US, and is mixed into pills that then claim the lives of users, who are often unaware they are taking something so powerful.

Fentanyl is the latest stage in the opioid crisis which started in America in the early 2000s when millions of people became addicted to prescription opioids that were marketed by drug companies and readily handed out by doctors.

When the prescriptions became harder to get in the 2010s, addicts had to resort to heroin. Now, they have turned to the cheaper choice, fentanyl, instead.

Joseph Friedman, an addiction researcher at the University of California, Los Angeles, told the Guardian: 'Fentanyl took over the illicit opioid market not because the consumers like it, but because the distributors like it. Its massively profitable.'

He added: 'California has now surpassed the national average and its becoming the single most important place for overdose intervention in terms of sheer numbers.'

Experts said the predicted almost 25 percent increase in deaths from last year is 'crazy and unfortunate'.

San Francisco has tried a raft of different policies to stop the deaths

They tried increasing police presence and opening a 'safe injection' site, which they then closed again

None of them have worked as drug deaths continue to climb

San Francisco has tried a raft of different measures to bring down the number of deaths, from increasing police presence to opening a 'safe injection' site which they then closed again.

But none of them have worked.

Dr Daniel Ciccarone, a professor at the University of California, told the Guardian: 'I had predicted the epidemic would start to burn out. But it is unbelievably resilient and horribly durable.'

And he warned, 'clearly the city has not done well enough... our policy options are not working.'

And the drug deaths are going hand in hand with a crime wave which has sparked an exodus of businesses and thrown the city into a 'doom loop'.

A recent report showed 95 retailers in downtown San Francisco have closed since the start of the COVID pandemic, a decline of more than 50 percent from 2019.

Office vacancy rates hit a record high of 34 per cent in September as shops were driven out of the downtown area by heightened crime and economists warn the city is spiraling into an 'urban doom loop'.

Looting specifically became a huge problem for the city while rampant theft caused the downfall of San Francisco's main shopping area - Union Square - and forced many major chains and local businesses to permanently shut their doors.

A map reveals the major businesses which have left, or plan to leave, San Francisco in recent months

Of the 620 deaths in 2022, 72 percent were attributed to fentanyl

Starbucks, Whole Foods, IKEA, Nordstrom and the Disney store have all shut some of their San Francisco locations down as a result of the city's drastic issues with crime.

In October, LinkedIn put up the top five floors of its 63,000 square feet, 26-story building for rental till December 2027 and laid off 668 employees.

A few months prior, Meta announced it was ready to abandon its 435,000 square feet San Francisco building once its lease expired in 2031.

Companies such as Airbnb, Paypal, Slack, Lyft and Salesforce have also left tens of thousands of square footage buildings in the city in the past year.

San Francisco plans to ramp up their police presence this holiday season to crack down on shoplifters - despite defunding the police just two years ago amidst BLM protests.
Groups of men have been spotted taking selfies and touring the Israeli-linked cargo ship that has been hijacked by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels off the coast of Yemen.

Rebels clambered aboard the Galaxy Leader commercial ship in the Red Sea last month with the ship now appearing to have become some-what of a tourist attraction.

Images appear to show people exploring the huge vessel, taking photos of the ocean view from the deck and holding up a Yemen's flag while smiling into the camera.

Some were pictured clambering up the ships ladders while other Yemenis armed with rifles walked around the vessel.

One part of the ship appears to have been graffitied with a slogan expressing support for Hamas in Gaza, the BBC reported.

Photographs taken from on board the Bahamas flagged car carrier showed large groups of people coming and going from the ship by motor boat.

People wait for boats to take them to the Galaxy Leader cargo ship that has been seized by Houthis

A boat carries people to and from the Galaxy Leader cargo ship so they can carry out tours of the seized vessel

Rebels clambered aboard the Galaxy Leader commercial ship in the Red Sea on November 19

Following the siege, the vessel was taken to the port of Hodeidah in the Houthi controlled north of Yemen.

It came after Houthi militia members had threatened to target Israeli ships over its war with Gaza.

The crew, who remain stuck on board the ship, have been allowed 'modest contact' with their families with their families, the vessel's owner said this week.

The staff on board the ship, chartered by Japan's Nippon Yusen, are from a number of different countries including Bulgaria, Ukraine, the Philippines, Mexico and Romania, Galaxy Maritime said.

'The safety and welfare of the crew members remains the priority of both owners and managers and the modest contact that has been allowed with crew members and their families suggests that the seafarers are being treated as well as can be expected in the circumstances,' Isle of Man registered owner Galaxy Maritime Ltd, said in a statement on Monday.

'The 25 crew members being held have no connection whatsoever with the current situation in the region,' the owner said. 'Nothing can be achieved by their further detention.'

A man watches from the deck of the Galaxy Leader as groups of tourists are taken to and from the boat

An armed person tours the deck of the Galaxy Leader offshore of the Al-Salif port in the Red Sea

A Houthi fighter keeps watch on the deck of the Galaxy Leader cargo ship

The United States has blamed the Houthis for a series of attacks in Middle Eastern waters since war broke out between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas on October 7. On Sunday, three more vessels were attacked in the Red Sea.

At an assembly session on Monday of the UN shipping agency's highest governing body, the United States, the Bahamas and Japan called for the unconditional release of the Galaxy Leader and its crew.

Japan's delegation told the International Maritime Organization assembly that it 'strongly condemns those acts which threaten the safety and freedom of navigation in that area'.

The Bahamas said the various attacks including the Galaxy Leader were a 'violation of all of the norms relating to innocent passage of ships'.

'Here we have non-state actors so who do you hold responsible?' the Bahamas said, referring to the Houthis.
Pro-Palestinian protesters who caused 157,000 of damage to an Israeli-linked arms factory during a 27-hour rooftop protest by smashing windows and spraying it with red paint have been sentenced.

Ishaq Aslam, Craig Smith and Jay Foster travelled to Newcastle the day before the 24-hour demonstration at the Pearson Engineering site in the city, which is owned by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.

The men, two from Scotland, stayed in a Holiday Inn before targeting the factory on May 15, aiming to shut it down and spark conversations about the Israeli-owned business.

Foster, 24, and Smith, 39, mounted the building, covered it in red paint and smashed eight windows.

The court heard 157,116 worth of damage was caused through the protest. The disruption also halted production and staff had to be sent home, costing the company another 121,000.

All three were charged with conspiracy to commit criminal damage. Aslam, of Langside Road, Glasgow, Scotland denied the offence of conspiracy to commit criminal damage but was sentenced to 14 months after a jury found him guilty.

Foster, of Fairfax Crescent, Halifax, West Yorkshire and Smith, of Leyden Street, Glasgow, both pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of criminal damage which was accepted by the Crown Prosecution Service. They both avoided prison after being handed suspended sentences.

A pro-Palestinian protester has been jailed after being part of a group which caused 160,000 of damage when they climbed onto the roof of an Israeli-owned weapons factory, smashed its windows and sprayed it with red paint (pictured: the incident at Pearson Engineering in Newcastle on May 15 this year)

Ishaq Aslam (pictured), 52, of Langside Road, Glasgow, Scotland was found guilty of damaging property and was sentenced to 14 months behind bars

Craig Smith, 39 (left), and Jay Foster (right), 24 - who both avoided prison time - mounted the building, covered it in red paint and smashed eight windows

Around 40 Northumbria Police officers, with back up from the Merseyside force, were deployed, for the 'significant policing operation'.

READ MORE: Pro-Palestine activists smash windows and throw blood red paint over group they claim is 'landlord to IDF arms dealers' - as four are arrested Several windows were smashed and the doors covered in 'blood red paint' at Number 55 Colmore Row Advertisement

Emma Dowling, prosecuting, told the court: 'They remained on the roof for 24 hours before they were removed by specialist officers.

'Red paint was sprayed indiscriminately on the roof and chimney.

'Eight large windows were smashed by Mr Foster using a scaffolding bar.

'All defendants are supporters of Palestine action.

'What is clear is that within five or six hours of being on the roof it had been extensively graffitied.'

The court heard the pair ignored police when they attempted to talk them down from the roof.

After they had been brought down, police found a sledge hammer, a smaller hammer, red paint, rucksacks, tins of paint, various food stuffs and a change of clothes.

Aslam, 52, did not climb the roof but was caught on CCTV with the pair at the hotel.

He also engaged with protesters outside of the factory and supported Smith and Foster by waving a flag.

Aslam was arrested 1.15am in the morning on May 16 while carrying protest leaflets in his car.

Ms Dowling told the court they had 'taken as much as they could carry to cause impact,' adding, 'They did intend to cause high damage and that this was planned, highly planned.

'There was certainly a recklessness.'

Aslam, who has two previous convictions for four offences including carrying a knife in 2018, was found guilty of conspiracy to commit criminal damage after an eight day trial.

Foster, of Fairfax Crescent, Halifax, West Yorkshire, who has no previous convictions, pleaded guilty to criminal damage.

Smith, of Leyden Street, Glasgow who has 18 previous convictions for 37 offences in Scotland including theft, breach of the peace, vandalism and attempted house breaking, also pleaded guilty to the same offence.

Smith (left) and Foster (right) on top of the arms factory in Newcastle on May 15 this year

The court heard 157,116 worth of damage was caused through the protest (pictured)

Judge Sarah Mallett told the men: 'I do accept your belief went to the heart of your intentions.'

Judge Mallett said all three are 'intelligent individuals' and questioned why they did not attend a public protest in the city a day earlier to engage in debate.

The judge added: 'The primary purpose, not only purpose, was to take action that would close the factory and cause financial loss to the Israeli government.'

Judge Mallett said the right to protest is 'central to our core values' but that the central aim of this offending was loss and damage.

The judge said Aslam played a 'leading role' in what happened that day and sentenced him to 14 months behind bars.

Smith and Foster were each sentenced to 11 months, suspended for two years, with rehabilitation requirements and unpaid work.

All three were given two-year restraining orders to keep them away from the factory.

Elaena Papamichael, for Aslam, had invited the judge to impose a community order for her client.

She said: 'Obviously there is some planning. There is no evidence of high planning before the 14th May, the plans developed and evolved throughout the day.

'An inference that there was an intention to shut the factory is not an inference that there was intent to cause very serious damage.

'It maybe that it's an intention to cause serious damage but not very serious damage.

'He has a staunch anti-violence approach. He is extremely pro-peace.'

Katie Spence, for Smith, said that the intention was to 'make a stir' but that the planning was 'not particularly sophisticated'.

She added: 'Mr Smith had been with his partner for 12 years when she sadly died very unexpectedly of cancer four years ago.'

Mr Aarif Abraham, for Foster, echoed the other defending barristers, adding: 'This is not a case of very serious damage.

'Mr Foster was acutely motivated by concern and care of others.

'This was an opportunistic exercise.'
Labour tonight crowed at the Tories 'ripping themselves apart' following Robert Jenrick's bombshell resignation as immigration minister.

Sir Keir Starmer's party reiterated their demands for a general election as they claimed Rishi Sunak's Government had entered its 'desperate dying days'.

Mr Jenrick's departure as a Cabinet minister has blown up the Prime Minister's hopes of reviving the Rwanda migrant scheme.

His exit came as Mr Sunak published emergency laws aimed at manoeuvring around the Supreme Court's block on plans to send asylum seekers to east Africa.

In a resignation letter to the PM, Mr Jenrick said he could not continue in his role 'when I have such strong disagreements with the direction of the Government's policy on immigration'.

He attacked Mr Sunak's new legislation as 'a 'triumph of hope over experience' and suggested it offered little chance of success in getting flights to Rwanda in the air.

Labour crowed at the Tories 'ripping themselves apart' following Robert Jenrick 's bombshell resignation as immigration minister.

Yvette Cooper, the shadow home secretary, said Mr Jenrick's resignation was a 'sign of total Tory chaos' and the 'collapse' of Mr Sunak's leadership

As the Tories plunged into fresh meltdown - including claims that Mr Sunak's position as PM was now in peril - Labour seized on the latest bout of Conservative civil war.

Yvette Cooper, the shadow home secretary, said Mr Jenrick's resignation was a 'sign of total Tory chaos' and the 'collapse' of Mr Sunak's leadership.

'A Tory party ripping itself apart, a Tory PM too weak to lead a Government,' she added. 'Britain deserves better than this.'

Earlier, Ms Cooper had quizzed Home Secretary James Cleverly in the House of Commons over the new emergency legislation aimed at reviving the Rwanda scheme.

With Mr Jenrick's resignation yet to be confirmed at that stage, she told MPs: 'This is total chaos in the Government and in the Conservative Party.

'This is the desperate dying days of a party ripping itself apart, clearly totally out of ideas, lost any sense of leadership or direction.

'We've got a Home Secretary making the statement but the rumours that the immigration minister has resigned.

'Where is he? Perhaps he can make that the first question that he answers  whether he still has an immigration minister in place.

'They've got open warfare among their backbenches, the starting gun fired on the next leadership election and once again the whole country paying the price for this chaos.'

In a resignation letter to the PM, Mr Jenrick said he could not continue in his role 'when I have such strong disagreements with the direction of the Government's policy on immigration'

Pat McFadden, Labour's national campaign coordinator, said: 'This latest chaotic chapter demonstrates why the country is ready for change. And Keir Starmer's changed Labour Party stands ready.

'The British people deserve a Government that will fix the issues that matter to working people, not a Tory circus of gimmicks and leadership posturing.'

Liberal Democrat MP Alistair Carmichael, his party's home affairs spokesperson, said: 'This is yet more Conservative chaos as another minister flees this sinking ship of a Government.

'Rishi Sunak is no longer in control of his party and has lost the support of the country.

'The Prime Minister knows that his Rwanda plan is totally unworkable, immoral and a complete waste of taxpayers' money.

'It is time the Government scrapped it and focused on fixing the broken asylum system instead of fighting amongst themselves.'
The FBI will exhume the body of a young murder victim who was killed 54 years ago - after her case was profiled in Netflix docuseries 'The Keepers.'

Joyce Helen Malecki, 20, disappeared on November 11, 1969. Her body was found two days later in a body of water at the soldier park training area at Fort Meade. She had been stabbed in the throat and strangled to death.

Now, her surviving brother Darryl has been informed by FBI that they have scheduled Malecki's exhumation for December 14.

Malecki's remains will be exhumed from Loudon Park Cemetery in Baltimore after more than five decades.

The FBI are set to explore an unspecified lead possibly connecting the case with the murder of a nun around the same time, Kurt Wolfgang, an attorney and executive director of Maryland Crime Victims' Resource Center previously told DailyMail.com.

Joyce Helen Malecki, 20, disappeared on November 11, 1969. Her body was found by two hunters in a body of water two days later at the soldier park training area at Fort Meade. She had been stabbed in the throat and strangled to death

Rev. A. Joseph Maskell was never criminally charged and denied all the allegations. In 1994, he was removed from his priestly ministry in Baltimore. He died in May 2001

Though he said the FBI gave them limited information, he said in January 1970 during Malecki's autopsy, a hair was discovered on her body that wasn't hers, and he believes that is what the investigators will be looking at.

Around the same time as Malecki's death, Catherine Ann Cesnik, 27, a nun and Catholic high school teacher in Baltimore, was reported missing on November 7, 1969.

Her body was discovered on January 3, 1970, nearly two months after she went missing. She had been choked and had a fatal head wound.

Cesnik's unsolved murder became the subject of the true-crime documentary after a former student Jean Hargadon Wehner went to her teacher, Sister Cesniak to share that she was being sexually abused by the high school chaplain.

When the chaplain discovered that Wehner had said something, she claims he took her to Cesnik's dead body and threatened it would be her if she didn't keep quiet.

Wolfgang, who represents Wehner and a number of other sex abuse survivors of the Archbishop Keough High School abuse, said his client never went to the authorities - terrified that she and her family would be murdered.

'She was petrified with fear,' Wolfgang said.

Sister Catherine Ann Cesnik, 27, a nun and Catholic high school teacher in Baltimore, was reported missing on November 7, 1969. Her body was discovered on January 3, 1970, nearly two months after she had gone missing. Cesnik had been choked and had a fatal head wound

Wehner, who is featured in 'The Keepers,' first came forward with her allegations in 1992 that the school's former chaplain, Rev. A. Joseph Maskell, had repeatedly raped her when she was a student at her alma mater, Archbishop Keough High School.

She spoke out after the release of the redacted report on child sexual abuse in the Catholic Archdiocese of Baltimore by the Maryland Attorney General's Office earlier this year, The Baltimore Sun reported.

After the deaths of Malecki and the beloved nun, detectives from Baltimore County questioned dozens of people, but the killer was never found and the case went cold for decades.

The Attorney General said a total of 39 women and men have brought claims against Maskell. He has since died.

Since the Netflix true-crime series put a spotlight on the unsolved murder of Cesnik detectives are now exploring a potential connection in both slayings.

Wolfgang said he represents the Malecki family and keeps in daily contact with Darryl Malecki, Joyce Malecki's brother.

'I think the family is really at a loss of what happened here and really yearning for answers and justice,' he said.

He told DailyMail.com the reason why the Malecki murder was covered in the Netflix show, 'The Keepers' is because of Sister Catherine's disappearance four days later.

'Both were young pretty girls, their cars were found with the keys still in the ignition and they were both murdered in a similar way,' he said.

'In both instances, their cars were moved after the abduction and parked somewhere.'

The Netflix true-crime series 'The Keepers' focuses on the unsolved murder of a Baltimore nun Sister Catherine Ann Cesnik (pictured)

In the docuseries, survivors detail sexual abuse allegations against Father Maskell and accusations of an institutional cover-up.

In the 1960s' Maskell was moved to different parishes due to 'troubling behavior with children,' according to a 2023 report by the Maryland Attorney General's Office, The New York Post reported.

According to the report, Maskell had a 'fascination with the sexual fantasies and behavior of Boy Scouts and having young girls in the rectory under suspicious circumstances,' the news outlet reported.

Maskell was never criminally charged and denied all the allegations. In 1994, he was removed from his priestly ministry in Baltimore and died in 2001.

Wolfgang told DailyMail.com that there were 'many teenage girl victims.'

He estimated at least 50 alone from Archbishop Keough High School. Many of those victims, he said, were abused, drugged and hypnotized by Maskell and others.

'There is a lot more to the story and many more revelations that will come out regarding the sex abuse scandal of the Archbishop of Baltimore and Archbishop Keough High School and Father Maskell as an integral part of it.'

He called many of the surviving victims 'heroes.'
President Biden and his administration are monitoring the situation in Venezuela and warning against any violence after the Maduro regime has made moves toward annexation of territory while neighboring Guyana pleas for political support.

White House national security spokesman John Kirby spoke about the increasingly tense situation at the White House Wednesday after a referendum in Venezuela for annexing potentially oil rich territory from neighboring Guyana, a neighboring South American Country on the Caribbean.

'It's concerning. We're watching this very, very closely as I said, I think last week,' Kirby said.

'The arbitral decision needs to be respected. We obviously don't want to see any violence occur here or conflict occur. And we're obviously in touch with all our partners,' he added.

Kirby was referencing a more than 100 year old agreement establishing the territorial line between the two nations.

'We obviously don't want to see any violence occur here,' national security spokesman Adm. John Kirby told reporters Wednesday when asked about a potential move by Venezuela to try to annex disputed territory from Guyana

The government of Venezuela's left wing dictator Nicolas Maduro has provided repeated indications it is preparing for potential action. He published a new map showing two thirds of neighboring Guyana 'reclaimed' by Caracas - raising fears he could launch an invasion.

Such a move would come at a time when the world is focused on Israel's war with Hamas, while Biden struggles to persuade Republicans in Congress to advance billions in critical military aid to assist Ukraine, which continues to battle Russia following its 2022 invasion of territory.

Maduro is expected to visit Moscow in December and meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to the Russian TASS news agency.

Asked if Biden was dialed into the issue and if the administration viewed annexation as a credible threat, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told DailyMail.com, 'I'm not going to go beyond what the Admiral said from here.'

'Obviously, the President is aware of what's going on,' she said, declining to go further.

Brazil communicated its own 'serious preoccupations,' with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's top foreign policy advisor Celso Amorim telling Reuters that Brazil opposes 'the use of force or threat thereof.'

Guyana's president Irfaan Ali urged allies including the U.S. to help deter a potential move.

'Our first line of defense is diplomacy," he told CBS News. He said Guyana appealed to the U.S. as well as India and Cuba in hopes 'they can encourage Venezuela to do what is right, and ensure that they do not act in a reckless or adventurous manner that could disrupt the pace within this zone.'

"But we are also preparing for the worst case scenario ... We are preparing with our allies, with our friends, to ensure that we are in a position to defend what is ours,"

Tensions were escalating between the two countries Wednesday as Caracas proposed a bill to create a Venezuelan province in a disputed oil-rich region and ordered the state-owned energy companies to 'immediately' begin exploration in the area.

'Obviously, the President is aware of what's going on,' White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told DailyMail.com when asked if they administration viewed actual annexation as a credible threat

Nicolas Maduro, the president of Venezuela, is seen on Tuesday holding up his new map of the region - showing Guyana Esequiba, a region which is the size of Florida, under Venezuelan control

Guyanese President Irfaan Ali called Maduro's statements a 'direct threat' against his country, and rejected the measures announced by his counterpart, who counts Iran, China and Russia among his allies.

Venezuela has claimed Guyana's Esequiba region for over 100 years, ever since the border of the present-day country was drawn up, in 1899.

But on Sunday, with his own popularity falling in the face of a newly-unified opposition, Maduro organized a 'referendum' on whether to pursue Venezuela's claim to the territory.

Voters were asked if they agreed with creating a Venezuelan state in the Esequiba region, providing its population with Venezuelan citizenship, and 'incorporating that state into the map of Venezuelan territory.'

The Maduro-controlled Venezuelan National Electoral Council said voters chose 'yes' more than 95 percent of the time on each of five questions on the ballot, and on Tuesday Maduro published his new map.

Alexis Rodriguez Cabello, left, is seen applauding as Maduro on Tuesday sent him to Tumeremo to run the Esequiba operation from the jungle border town

He has appointed a general, Alexis Rodriguez Cabello, as head of the region and on Tuesday dispatched him to the town of Tumeremo, a remote mining town in the jungle, 120 miles from the border.

Esequiba, about the size of Florida, is rich in minerals and accounts for two thirds of the territory of Guyana - an English speaking nation, which gained its independence from Britain in 1966. Guyana is the only English-speaking country in South America.

Venezuela protested an oil tender announced by Guyana in September, arguing that the offshore areas are subject to dispute and the companies awarded the fields will not have the rights to explore them.

Guyana has denounced Sunday's referendum as pretext to annex the land: in the days running up to it, the Venezuelan defense minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez, known for his ties to his counterparts in Russia and Iran, posted a video of Venezuela troops on parade, waving flags saying 'Guyana Esequiba', colored in the Venezuelan flag.

President Irfaan Ali called the move by Maduro 'reckless' and said his country plans to alert both regional and world leaders of Maduro's attempt to disrupt the peace in the hemisphere.

'It is unfortunate that President Maduro would choose the road of defying an international court order. This speaks volumes about the way in which President Maduro prefers to operate and also points to the fact that he's unconcerned about the peace and security of this region,' he told The Miami Herald.

'The order of the [U.N. court] made it very clear that Venezuela cannot act or take any action that would disrupt the status quo and the status quo is that Guyana exercises governance and control of Essequibo,' he said.

He added that he is seeking the support of the United Nations Security Council, the United States, the Caribbean Community, the Organization of American States and other countries to ensure Guyana's territory is 'not violated.'

'We once again call on Venezuela to retract from this reckless, adventurous move and to allow international law and the ruling of the [U.N. court] to guide our action,' Ali added.

Venezuela's defense minister tweeted video of the army preparing for battle, waving flags saying 'Guyana Esequiba', colored in the Venezuelan flag

El pueblo y su #FANB estan movilizados, decididos e imperturbables a recuperar nuestra Guayana Esequiba, nos mueve el amor infinito a la patria y a cada milimetro del sagrado territorio venezolano, el cual defenderemos por todas las vias y por todos los medios que esten a nuestro pic.twitter.com/B60slT8xSs  Vladimir Padrino L. (@vladimirpadrino) November 29, 2023

A 'Guyana Esequiba' sign, in the colors of the Venezuelan flag

Venezuela on Tuesday published this new map, showing Esequiba under Venezuelan control

Guyana has appealed to the International Court of Justice, the United Nations' top court, which on Friday ordered Venezuela not to take any action to change the status quo until the panel can rule on the two countries' competing claims. Any decision could take years.

Meanwhile, Guyana is nervously eyeing its giant neighbor to the north.

Venezuela's military, backed by Russia, Iran and Cuba, massively outnumbers tiny Guyana's: the Venezuelan military counts 123,000 active personnel versus only 3,400 for Guyana, according to an analysis in Brazil's Folha de Sao Paulo newspaper.

Guyana is also dwarfed by Venezuela in weaponry, with Venezuela having 514 armored vehicles compared to only six owned by Guyana.

But military analysts point out that decades of mismanagement by the struggling Socialist regime have significantly weakened Venezuela's capacity.

Igor Gielow, a military expert cited by the newspaper, said that only around half of the fleet of 24 Russianbuilt Sukhoi Su30 fighter jets are considered fit to fly.

'But even as a paper tiger, Venezuela is a colossus compared to Guyana,' said Gielow.

King Charles is seen with the president of Guyana, Irfaan Ali (left) and the vice president, Bharrat Jagdeo, at the COP28 climate change summit in Dubai last week

He said the logistics of an invasion would be complicated.

'A good part of the 800kilometerlong border between Venezuela and Esequiba consists of dense jungle, which is impenetrable save for small units,' he said, adding that it was impossible to use armored vehicles in the swampy tropical terrain.

'The most logical possibility for dictator Nicolas Maduro is a combination of airborne attack against Esequiba's few urban centers and an amphibious landing on the Caribbean,' he said.

Such an attack would draw a strong international response, with the lead likely played by Brazil, which borders both Venezuela and Guyana and whose military is significantly larger and more professional than either country's.

At the end of November, Brazil's defense ministry said it 'has intensified defensive actions' along its northern border.

'The Ministry of Defense has been monitoring the situation. Defensive actions have been intensified in the northern border region of the country, promoting a greater military presence,' it said in a statement.
Joe Biden cancelled $4.8 billion in student debt on Wednesday, bringing the total he has forgiven to $132 billion for more than 3.6 million borrowers.

It comes despite the Supreme Court having struck down his plan to cancel $400 billion in debt in June.

Republicans slammed the move and said taxpayers would be forced to pay the bill.

The latest move will benefit 80,000 people including public sector workers and those who have been paying back loans for at least 20 years.

Biden said: 'In the wake of the Supreme Courts decision on our student debt relief plan we are continuing to pursue an alternative path to deliver student debt relief to as many borrowers as possible as quickly as possible.

Biden said the move would allow former students to 'reach their dreams'

Students protest the Supreme Court's ruling against President Joe Biden's student-debt relief program in June

'From day one of my administration I vowed to improve the student loan system so that a higher education provides Americans with opportunity and prosperity - not unmanageable burdens of student loan debt.'

He added: 'I wont back down from using every tool at our disposal to get student loan borrowers the relief they need to reach their dreams.'

Republican Speaker Mike Johnson said: 'The Biden Administrations latest student debt transfer does not cancel or forgive a penny of student loan debt.

'Instead, President Biden is once again asking hard-working taxpayers to foot the bill for the loans of well-off graduates. This is not only unfair, it is wrong.'

Most of those benefiting from the latest cancellation were told in November that their remaining debt would be wiped out.

Biden has canceled more student debt than any previous president.

Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said: 'The latest discharges are a result of this administrations relentless efforts to fix our countrys broken student loan system and get hard-earned debt relief into the hands of eligible borrowers.'

A national survey of 400 small business employers conducted between June 5-30, 2023

Protesters holding signs advocating for the cancellation of student debt stand in front of the United States Supreme Court in Washington DC on Friday, June 30, 2023

Last month Biden told 813,000 Americans that he had wiped out their student loan debt.

The former students received an email from Biden notifying them.

Biden's push to cancel student loan debt comes with less than a year until the election and as he tries to get young voters on board.

At the beginning of October he canceled $9 billion in student debt for 125,000 borrowers.

Biden's student loan forgiveness program that was stopped by the Supreme Court promised up to $20,000 in debt relief for low and middle-income borrowers.

The administration has since found other ways to announce debt relief.
The wingtips of GoJet Flight 4423 and SkyWest Flight 5433 made contact around 7pm Tuesday while the jets were waiting for gate space at the airport

Two planes at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport clipped wings, prompting a Federal Aviation Administration investigation.

The wingtips of GoJet Flight 4423 and SkyWest Flight 5433 made contact around 7pm Tuesday as they waited for gate space at the airport.

Both aircraft 'taxied safely to the terminals, where passengers exited normally,' the FAA told Fox News Digital in a statement.

No passengers were injured and deplaned normally after the incident and the FAA said the agency are still investigating the matter and provided no further detail.

SkyWest had arrived from Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, while GoJet had arrived from Richmond, Virginia, WBBM-TV reported.

It comes as similar incidents have been on the rise with independent experts urging the FAA to get better staffing, equipment and technology as a preventative measure.

Two grounded planes at Chicago 's O'Hare International Airport clipped wings prompting a Federal Aviation Administration investigation

Shortages in air traffic controllers has also forced workers into frequent overtime, leading to fatigue, Fox News reported.

It's unclear what led the two planes to get close enough to clip wings on Tuesday.

Nationally, aircraft near-misses have been found to be on the rise, amid a severe air traffic controller staffing shortage that controllers say is pushing them to the brink physically and mentally.

In the fiscal year through September 30, 'significant' air traffic control lapses jumped 65 percent from the prior year, to 503 incidents, according to internal Federal Aviation Administration data reported by the New York Times.

Citing records and interviews with current and former controllers, the Times revealed incidents of controllers sleeping and drinking on the job, fights breaking out in control towers, and complaints of dismal working conditions including black mold and biting insects.

Staff have also complained of having to bring lightbulbs in from home to illuminate dilapidated control towers, whose lifts sometimes break - leaving them to trudge up hundreds of steps.

Workers are accused of smoking weed during breaks and downing up to nine vodkas to get to sleep, despite strict FAA rules prohibiting the use of such substances close to or during a shift.

Controllers say that due to staffing shortages, they are often forced to work 10-hour shifts six days a week, on irregular schedules that leave them exhausted, mentally depressed, and turning to alcohol to cope.

In a statement, the FAA said the lengthy Times report 'does not reflect the high level of safety of our nation's airspace.'

'Flying has never been safer, due in large part to our air traffic controllers. We encourage them to report safety concerns and incidents without fear of reprisal,' the agency added.

In October, Michael G. Whitaker became FAA Administrator. One of his most urgent tasks has been addressing a surge in close-calls between planes at major airports

A simulation shows an incident February in Austin, Texas, when a FedEx cargo plane and a Southwest Boeing 737 came within about 115 feet in poor visibility conditions. The controller had cleared the FedEx plane to land and the Southwest plane to depart on the same runway

From 2011 to 2022, the number of fully certified controllers declined more than 9 percent, even though traffic increased, the Times reported.

According to target staffing levels set by the FAA and the union that represents controllers, 99 percent of the nation's air traffic control sites are understaffed.

Under looser guidelines preferred by the FAA, only 63 percent of the facilities are considered understaffed.

To make up for the shortage, controllers at 40 percent of the nation's facilities are required to work six-day weeks at least once a month, and some of them have to do so every week, according to the union.

While overtime pay offers a nice padding to controller compensation, which typically runs in the six figures, some controllers say they have been pushed to the breaking point.

'We have recently had a heart attack, multiple panic attacks (including my own), people losing their medicals due to depression and some that just outright quit the FAA because it has gotten so bad,' a Jacksonville controller wrote in a confidential safety report obtained by the Times in an open records request.

'Who knows how many other stress-induced physical and mental issues are happening that we don't even know about yet,' the controller added. 'This place is breaking people. We need help. I'll say it again, SOS!!'

Ashley Smith, who worked as a controller in Atlanta for more than a decade, told the Times she witnessed an increase in mistakes at her facility, which had 77 fully certified controllers instead of the target level of 110.

As morale sank, arguments and even physical fights broke out in the control room, she said.

After a controller error led to a near-miss between two Delta planes, Smith sent an email complaining to a senior FAA official, writing: 'The staffing is ridiculous and getting worse.'

'What level of fatigue is the agency trying to get this wor force to before they recognize a serious safety issue?' the email added. Smith quit the job three months later.

In October. two commercial planes almost crashed shortly after one took off from Portland International Airport during a storm, as seen in a virtual re-creation

The FAA said in a statement that it is 'is deeply committed to the health and well-being of our air traffic controllers and all of our employees.'

'We make it clear to our employees that they can and should report incidents, without the risk of reprisal,' noting that the behavior in the Times report 'is unacceptable and has already been addressed.'

'Nothing is more important than the safety of everyone who flies in our National Airspace System,' the agency added.

In October, Michael G. Whitaker became FAA Administrator following a career in executive roles in both private industry and the agency.

One of his most urgent tasks has been addressing a surge in close-calls between planes at major airports.

In August, a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 and a Cessna Citation 560X business jet came less than 100 feet apart in San Diego.

The FAA said an air traffic controller cleared the Cessna to land on a runway even though Southwest Flight 2493 had already been told to taxi onto the same runway.

A similar near-collision occurred in February in Austin, Texas, when a FedEx cargo plane and a Southwest Boeing 737 came within about 115 feet in poor visibility conditions.

The controller had cleared the FedEx plane to land and the Southwest plane to depart on the same runway.

The FAA said in March it was taking steps to improve its air traffic control operations, which are short-staffed.
Rustling a packet of sweets or chatting through a drama performance clearly ruins the show for others.

But bad behaviour has become so prevalent in the West End that a staggering 70 per cent of theatre-goers say they have experienced disruption.

More than two thirds said they had been irritated by phones and people talking or heckling, a survey found.

According to the 3,000 people asked, mobile devices were the most common annoyance, with 41 per cent of people experiencing them being used during a show.

Meanwhile, 38 per cent said they had been disturbed by loud talking, laughter or inappropriate heckling.

Bad behaviour has become so prevalent in the West End that a staggering 70 per cent of theatre-goers say they have experienced disruption. Pictured: Shaftsbury Avenue

Meanwhile, 38 per cent said they had been disturbed by loud talking, laughter or inappropriate heckling. Pictured: Piccadilly Theatre in London West End

READ MORE - How fans of the Operation Mincemeat West End musical discovered the REAL identity of the WWII plot's unsung heroine Advertisement

The survey by Ticketmaster also showed nearly half of under-35s choose which play to see based on the star casting.

There has been a rise in audience incidents since theatres reopened after the pandemic, with some ticketholders having to be removed.

Last month police were called to the Palace Theatre in Manchester after a fight broke out during a performance of Hamilton. No arrests were made.

In August, theatre-goers were escorted out of Grease at the Dominion Theatre in London by officers after an altercation in the aisles.

Earlier this year it was revealed marketing for West End shows was being toned down in a bid to prevent audience disturbances.

Ambassador Theatre Group, the largest theatre operator in the UK, said it was working with producers to ban phrases such as 'dancing in the aisles'.
The opposition has called on the Albanese government to apologise to Australians as Labor looks to detain people recently released from immigration detention who may pose a risk to community safety.

The government is not revealing how many foreigners could end up behind bars under laws which passed the parliament on Wednesday night to set up a preventive detention regime.

A 45-year-old man became the fourth former detainee to be charged with fresh offences after he allegedly broke the curfew of his visa conditions and stole luggage from Melbourne airport.

The government has been scrambling to respond to the High Court's decision, which overturned 20-years of legal precedent to rule indefinite detention unlawful.

Deputy Liberal leader Sussan Ley said the government needed to provide clear information to the public about how they would use the laws

Deputy Liberal leader Sussan Ley said the government owed Australians an apology and answers.

'They have created chaos about this from the beginning,' she told Sky News.

'Not even to have laws ready for preventative detention ... we might not have had these people, at least two of them arrested, because they might have been put back behind bars where they belong.

'Critically now the test for this government is what are they going to do to make sure women and children in Australia are safe.'

Ms Ley said the government needed to provide clear information to the public about how they would use the laws, and how many 'predators will be locked up before Christmas'.

Of the more than 140 people released, four are accused of reoffending.
Did you see what happened?

A gunman has opened fire outside busy shopping centre in Brussels leaving four people injured before the attacker went on the run.

Victims included a female tourist - with one being shot near the mall, a second being found outside an Apple store and a third was discovered on a nearby high street.

The woman was a member of staff for a Swedish MEP, working just 15 minutes away at the European Parliament.

The shots were fired on the Avenue de la Toison d'Or, a busy commercial street near a covered passageway featuring upscale fashion boutiques. The passageway was evacuated, according to Belgian media.

The assailants had left the scene by the time the police arrived after being called at about 7:30 pm, police spokeswoman Ilse Van de Keere said.

Images of the scene show heavily armed officers surrounding the entrance to the mall, which is lit up in festive Christmas decorations

Victims included a female tourist - with one being shot near the mall and a second being found outside an Apple store

The shots were fired on the Avenue de la Toison d'Or, a busy commercial street near a covered passageway featuring upscale fashion boutiques

Another victim includes a member of staff for a Swedish MEP, working just 15 minutes away at the European Parliament. Pictured: Belgian police officers keep guard

Belgian police officers keep guard outside the area where, according to police, a shooting took place

She added: 'At this point, there is nothing to make us think it was a terrorist act.'

The spokesperson confirmed that several people were injured and a perimeter has been set up.

One of the wounded is in critical condition.

Images of the scene show heavily armed officers surrounding the entrance to the mall, which is lit up in festive Christmas decorations.

'In the middle of Avenue de la Toison d'Or, a man came with a gun, fired several times, followed by a panic with around twenty people coming to take refuge in the Gallery, including a woman injured in the right leg, a tourist,' one eye-witness, Alain Gagnaire, told French-language newspaper Le Soir.

An officer uses flashlight as Belgian police guard outside the area where the shooting occured

The assailants had left the scene by the time the police arrived after being called at about 7:30 pm, police spokeswoman Ilse Van de Keere said. Pictured: Police officers search for a gunman at the scene of the shooting

Police spokeswoman Ilse Van de Keere confirmed that several people were injured and a perimeter has been set up. Pictured: Belgian police officers keep guard

'I called the cops and they arrived in force with the firefighters.'

Swedish MEP Tomas Tobe posted on social media shortly after the attack to say that one of his staff had been injured.

Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, he said: 'One of our employees has been injured in a shooting in Brussels. Terrible.

'The person in question is receiving care at the moment, the situation is not considered to be critical. Relatives of the person are notified.'
The Government's new Rwanda legislation has been billed as the toughest immigration law ever seen in Britain.

Rishi Sunak told his MPs to 'unite or die' yesterday as the Government put in place a last-ditch attempt to set up removals flights heading to the East African nation by the next general election. But, following the resignation of immigration minister Robert Jenrick, will his controversial plan work?

WHAT DOES THE PLAN AIM TO ACHIEVE?

The legislation attempts to set out once and for all that migrants who arrive in Britain illegally, such as by small boat across the Channel, can be safely sent to Rwanda to claim asylum there rather than here.

The draft measures  entitled the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill  are comparatively short, running to about 2,400 words across just ten legal clauses.

Rishi Sunak told his MPs to 'unite or die' yesterday as the Government put in place a last-ditch attempt to set up removals flights heading to Rwanda

But despite its relative brevity, the Bill is trying to accomplish something that no government has attempted before.

It sets out a fine balancing of constitutional issues  including whether ministers or judges should have the final say on immigration matters.

On top of all that it is being done against a ticking clock, with a general election looming.

HOW WILL IT WORK?

It sets out unambiguously that the courts and tribunals must treat Rwanda as a safe country.

This is crucial because last month the Supreme Court ruled there was a risk migrants deported there could be sent on to another country where they might come to harm.

The legislation says that if migrants are sent away from Rwanda at a later date they can only come back to Britain, thus undermining the Supreme Court's main objection.

At a constitutional level the Bill says unequivocally that Parliament has sovereignty  rather than the courts.

It says aspects of international law which could block the scheme, such as the Refugee Convention, shall have no effect.

The Desir Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda - which the Mail reported last year was among three hotels which could house migrants sent from the UK

It also disapplies parts of the Human Rights Act, introduced by Labour in 1998, limiting the opportunities for legal meddling.

Further, it says only ministers  and not unelected judges  should decide whether to comply with interim injunctions from the European Court of Human Rights. The UK courts should ignore any interventions from Strasbourg, it adds.

This is important because the Strasbourg court used this kind of injunction to block the first attempt at removing migrants to Rwanda in June last year.

WHY IS IT SO CONTENTIOUS?

The Bill has divided opinion in the Conservative Party itself.

Remarkably, it prompted the resignation last night of Mr Sunak's immigration minister Robert Jenrick, who had wanted to see tougher measures. Right-wing Tories, including former home secretary Suella Braverman, have warned that any attempt to introduce watered down legislation would simply not work.

Mrs Braverman's allies said the Bill was 'fatally flawed'.

In particular, they criticised a 'loophole' which will allow migrants selected for removal to Rwanda to continue bringing legal challenges in this country based on their 'particular individual circumstances'.

The legislation does not set out what these circumstances might be, but it could cover asylum- seekers who claim they would face prejudicial treatment in Rwanda because of their sexuality, race or faith.

On the other hand, liberal Tories were concerned that the legislation would go too far.

One Conservative MP, Matt Warman, said on Tuesday that any moves to override the European Convention on Human Rights would have been a 'red line'.

Mr Sunak appeared to have talked them round last night.

Interior of one of the rooms at The Desir Hotel in Kigali - a hotel which reports last year suggested could house migrants sent to Rwanda from the UK

The moderate One Nation Conservative caucus welcomed the draft Bill and indicated that they believed it stayed on the right side of international law  but said they would seek legal advice on the details.

Beyond the Tory Party the Bill will be even more divisive.

Home Secretary James Cleverly had to acknowledge yesterday that he could not say whether or not the new Bill was compatible with the European Convention on Human Rights. Legal experts said that the legislation is likely to face challenges in the courts.

COULD RISHI SUNAK HAVE GONE FURTHER?

Perhaps. But this was always going to be a difficult balancing act for the Prime Minister.

A statement from Rwanda's foreign affairs minister Dr Vincent Biruta, issued yesterday appeared to put that issue to bed, however. He seemed to indicate that his country would have pulled out of the deal if the new legislation had been more radical.

A boat carrying around 50 migrants drifts into English waters in August this year (file image)

He also emphasised the importance of observing the 'highest standards of international law'. This will have been key in allowing Mr Sunak to urge his party to 'unite or die' behind the Bill.

WHAT HAPPENS NOW?

The Government has said it will fast-track the Bill through Parliament.

It is likely to face opposition in the House of Lords which could slow it down  but cannot block it completely.

Once it is on the statute book, the PM will have to decide whether to push ahead with the first Rwanda removals flights amid what is likely to be an avalanche of legal action.

It is likely to be his toughest test yet.
Charming China - Enchanting Hubei (part 2)

13:36, December 06, 2023 By Jingqi Zhang ( People's Daily Online

The travel documentary "Charming China - Enchanting Hubei (Part 2)," co-produced by People's Daily Online Australia and Greg Grainger TV, airs on Channel Ten of Australian public television in November 2023. This latest installment in the "Charming China" series presents Hubei's rich history and ethnic diversity to Australian viewers.

Hosted and produced by renowned Australian TV presenter Greg Grainger, "Enchanting Hubei" highlights Hubei's cultural landmarks and explores the Tujia ethnic group's local customs.

In part one, Grainger conducts on-site interviews while traveling the Yangtze River from Wuhan to Jingzhou. He experiences Wuhan's vibrant night lights, the simplicity of Yangtze River life, and the Tujia people's talents and spirits, and visits the tomb of the vassal kings of the State of Chu. Additionally, Grainger indulges in one of Wuhan's most famous local dishes, "hot dry noodles," in Hubu Alley, experiences a wine ceremony in Jingzhou, and enjoys China's traditional flower-drum opera.

Part two focuses on the Three Gorges Dam and the traditional lifestyle of the Tujia ethnic group. The Tujia, residing in a secluded paradise, sustain themselves. Their traditional attire, weaving techniques, and agricultural tools have withstood the test of time. Welcoming Grainger with a unique traditional ceremony, the Tujia display spectacular performances. The documentary explores the Tujia's funeral rituals and their perspectives on marriage and life. Also, in the episode, Grainger explores the magnificent Three Gorges Waterfall and the steep canyons near the Three Gorges Dam.

Since 2018, People's Daily Online Australia has introduced the beautiful landscapes and diverse cultures of Chinese provinces, including Sichuan, Shanxi, Hainan, Guangdong, and Anhui, to Australian audiences.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang)
'We get a couple of people sick or got problems at home and we're, we're in the minority,' said Rep. Tim Burchett

'For all the self-congratulatory videos that McCarthy may make, his unwillingness to stay and vote ... may imperil our ability to get the job done'

Rep. Matt Gaetz gloated about Kevin McCarthy's resignation announcement, as some members expressed concerns about whittling away the GOP majority in the House.

'I wish him well,' Gaetz told reporters in a tongue-in-cheek remark on McCarthy's departure. 'I hope he finds happiness.'

But on X the Florida Republican gloated about the 'Establishment Exodus from the House Republican Conference.'

'For all the self-congratulatory videos that McCarthy may make, his unwillingness to stay and vote for even the most basic Republican priorities until the end of his term may imperil our ability to get the job done.'

On if he's worried about McCarthy, a prolific fundraiser, backing a primary opponent against him, Gaetz said: 'I hope he does.'

Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., echoed that sentiment, but said he was 'absolutely' concerned about the majority dropping from three to two seats.

'We get a couple of people sick or got problems at home and we're, we're in the minority,' he said.

Asked if he was concerned of McCarthy funding a primary against him, Burchett suggested the former speaker may already be doing so.

'Somebody's been polling in my district, calling people, so,' he said.

Rep. Matt Gaetz gloated about Kevin McCarthy 's resignation announcement, as some members expressed concerns about whittling away the GOP majority in the House

'I wish him well,' Gaetz told reporters in a tongue-in-cheek remark on McCarthy's departure. 'I hope he finds happiness'

Rep. Matt Rosendale, R-Mont., who is expected to jump into the Montana Senate race, said he is 'not in the slightest' bit worried about McCarthy funding a primary opponent against him.

The former House speaker will retire at the end of this month, he announced Wednesday.

In an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal, he boasted of the House's accomplishments under his speakership.

'It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways. I know my work is only getting started,' he wrote.

'I will continue to recruit our countrys best and brightest to run for elected office. The Republican Party is expanding every day, and I am committed to lending my experience to support the next generation of leaders.'

McCarthy first took office in the House in 2007. He quickly rose through the ranks, jumping from deputy whip, majority whip, majority leader then minority leader then speaker.

After taking fifteen ballots to cinch the speakership in January, the California Republican was summarily ousted by his colleagues nine months later over a clean spending bill he put on the House floor.

He was the first speaker to ever be removed by a motion to vacate.

The House Republican majority will now whittle down to two with McCarthy's departure, after Rep. George Santos, R-N.Y., was expelled last week.

The special election for Santos' seat is February 13.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., sounded off about the slimmed majority on X.

'Well.. Now in 2024, we will have a 1 seat majority in the House of Representatives. Congratulations Freedom Caucus for one and 105 Rep who expel our own for the other. I can assure you Republican voters didnt give us the majority to crash the ship. Hopefully no one dies.'

The retirement announcement follows one by Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., McCarthy's close ally who helped negotiate the debt limit deal for him with the White House. McHenry will finish out his term and not seek reelection.

Gaetz launched a motion to vacate after McCarthy put a 'clean' continuing resolution, or CR, on the House floor to continue government spending at 2023 levels for six weeks and avoid a government shutdown. Gaetz and other conservatives wanted to see steep spending cuts, and no CRs.

Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell offered a message of praise on X.

'.@SpeakerMcCarthys neighbors in Bakersfield were fortunate to have such an optimistic doer represent them for 17 years. I am proud of the work we accomplished together in the Capitol, and I wish him the very best as he writes a new chapter.'

Months ago in September, McCarthy was critical of Rep. Victoria Spartz, R-Ind., for considering leaving Congress.

'I mean, if Victoria is concerned about fighting stronger, I wish she would run again and not quit. I mean, I'm not quitting. I'm going to continue work for the American public.'
Junior doctors are wrong to embark on 'damaging strike action' over pay during the busy Christmas period, Rishi Sunak said yesterday.

The Prime Minister hit out at plans for the longest walkout in NHS history as union leaders tried to defend their demands, saying 'all' they were looking for was a 26 per cent rise.

Medics will again go on strike for three days this month and six more at the start of January.

It comes after British Medical Association chiefs rejected a pay offer in their long-running row with the Government.

The Prime Minister (pictured on Wednesday) hit out at plans for the longest walkout in NHS history as union leaders tried to defend their demands

British Medical Association chiefs rejected a pay offer in their long-running row with the Government. Pictured: Junior doctors striking in September

Medics will go on strike again for three days this month and six more at the start of January. Pictured: Junior doctors striking in September

At Prime Minister's Questions, Mr Sunak piled pressure on the striking doctors, stressing that 'every other part of the public sector' which had taken industrial action had now resolved its dispute with the Government.

Nurses, physiotherapists and paramedics have called off strikes following pay deals, while consultants will vote on an offer their leaders have accepted.

Mr Sunak added: 'The junior doctors are taking action in the face of a recommendation of an independent body of a 9 per cent pay rise on average, the highest increase across the entire public sector.

'The Government has gone beyond that in conversations with them and they have still decided to take damaging strike action. It is wrong.'

But Dr Robert Laurenson, the co-chairman of the BMA's junior doctors committee, told LBC radio: 'The [extra] 3 per cent offer was completely insufficient to actually begin to address 26 per cent pay erosion that doctors have faced over the last 15 years.

'All we're looking for is for that 26 per cent to be restored so we go back to a 0 per cent change from 2008.'
Seven West Media chief executive and managing director James Warburton will step down from the top job on a high as his successor was announced.

The media company revealed on Thursday that Mr Warburton has advised he will transition out of the role by the end of the 2023-24 financial year.

It comes after he steered the company's flagship Channel Seven operations to a third consecutive year as Australia's number one TV network.

Chief financial officer Jeff Howard has been appointed to take over the reins when his predecessor departs sometime in the first half of 2024.

Seven West Media chairman Kerry Stokes thanked Mr Warburton for his energy, enthusiasm and outstanding contribution to the role.

Seven West Media chief executive James Warburton (right) will step down from the top job in 2024. He's pictured with chairman Kerry Stokes (left)

'James came to SWM at a difficult time and has been immensely successful in reinvigorating Sevens ratings, strengthening the balance sheet and setting Seven up for future success,' Mr Stokes said.

Mr Warburton told The Australian it was his decision to step down.

Im proud of the fact that we have got an orderly transition over the next six months,' he said

I feel very proud of what we have achieved as a business and the business is in fantastic shape.

'We need the ad market to come back and bring back the operating leverage of the company and Seven, particularly with the sports streaming rights coming, will be an even more unbeatable force and than it currently is.'

Mr Warburton joined Seven West Media in 2019 having previously worked at Seven between 2003 and 2011.

Mr Warburton (pictured with Seven star Sonia Kruger) said it was his decision to step down

He then switched rival network Channel Ten where he was being sacked by board in 2013 after just over a year in the top job.

Mr Warburton then served a four year stint as boss of the V8 Supercars.

He said the time for right for Seven West Media to take the next step forward with an 'exceptionally talented team' in place.

'A significant improvement in the balance sheet and digital earnings, underpinned by long-term AFL and cricket TV and streaming rights, and the acquisition of Prime have given the company a very strong future,' Mr Warburton said.

'I've now spent more than 15 years of my professional life working for Seven (in two stints) and I'd like to thank Kerry and Ryan Stokes, the other directors and our major shareholders for the wonderful opportunity and their support.'

'While I look forward to the next chapter in my career, I am confident I am leaving Seven West Media in excellent hands.'

Outgoing Seven West media boss James Warburton (pictured) previously spent four years at the helm of V8 Supercars

Mr Warburton promised a seamless transition to his successor, who has been in chief financial officer role for almost four years.

As we look to the next phase of growth in an ever-changing industry, our focus is on continuing to create great content to be the most connected news, sport and entertainment brand in Australia, while driving value for shareholders,' Mr Howard said.

'Our strategy of premium audience generation and engagement across all of SWM's platforms will remain at the forefront of everything we do.'

The shock announcement comes days after Seven finished the official 2023 ratings survey year as the most watched TV network across Australia for the third year running.

Seven recorded its second biggest audience share ever  and its best share in five years, thanks to the huge success of SAS Australia, My Kitchen Rules, Farmer Wants A Wife and Dancing With The Stars, which all saw increased audiences in 2023.
Robert Jenrick unleashed fresh Tory chaos last night as he resigned as minister for immigration.

It came just an hour after a plea by Rishi Sunak for the party to unite or die over his Rwanda policy.

The Prime Minister had urged factions to pull together to fight Labour instead of themselves after publishing emergency legislation he hopes will finally get the deportation flights off the ground.

Though Mr Sunak said his new Bill would ensure our plan cannot be stopped, following defeat in the Supreme Court, he faced immediate criticism from the Right of the party, who felt it did not go far enough.

The PM issued an ultimatum to his party to come together as a team during a tub-thumping appearance before Tory MPs at the 1922 Committee, where he described the legislation as the toughest piece of anti-illegal immigration law that weve ever put to the House.

Robert Jenrick unleashed fresh Tory chaos last night as he resigned as minister for immigration

In a scathing resignation letter, Mr Jenrick described the legislation as a triumph of hope over experience

Former home secretary Suella Braverman, who was sacked last month, said the Bill was fatally flawed in the House of Commons today

Mr Sunak said it needed to be passed with a strong majority to throw down the gauntlet to the Lords, where it could face tough opposition.

But he faced immediate criticism for shunning the most hardline option and not providing powers to ignore the European Convention on Human Rights.

DAILY MAIL COMMENT: End Tory tantrums On the face of it, the Governments Plan B on Rwanda is a valiant attempt to get the beleaguered scheme up and running. By making clear the African country is safe and barring cross-Channel asylum seekers from exploiting the Human Rights Act to avoid removal, the emergency Bill satisfies the Supreme Courts objections. Critically, it will let ministers ignore decrees from European judges that try to block planes from taking off. If not completely content, the Tory Right at least accepts this is a step forward. It was not enough, however, to please Robert Jenrick. Claiming that the Bill would not end the carousel of legal challenges which paralyse the scheme, the Immigration Minister quit. Rather than giving Rishi Sunak another headache, Mr Jenrick should have stayed in government and fought his corner. Dont ministers understand how sick the public are of their endless self-indulgent posturing? The only person their histrionics help is Keir Starmer, the ocean-going dud who too many Tory MPs seem hellbent on making look statesman-like and electable. Advertisement

In a scathing resignation letter, Mr Jenrick described the legislation as a triumph of hope over experience. But a senior Tory source hit back, labelling Mr Jenricks desertion a disgrace. The source said: The PM is trying to solve a serious problem  this is just petulant. It is just treacherous. They are trying to destroy the party, throwing their toys out of the pram to seek attention.

If you are genuinely serious about reducing immigration into this country  legal and illegal  you dont quit. The sure-fire way to get the opposite is if Keir Starmer becomes prime minister.

Mr Jenrick had been on the brink for days, demanding the UK should remove obstacles to Rwanda deportations by opting out of European human rights laws. Last night he conceded he was unable to take the currently proposed legislation through the Commons as I do not believe it provides us with the best possible chance of success.

He wrote: The stakes for the country are too high for us not to pursue the stronger protections required to end the merry-go-round of legal challenges which risk paralysing the scheme and negating its intended deterrent.

Former home secretary Suella Braverman, who was sacked last month, said the Bill was fatally flawed and wont stop the boats. But a Government source told the Mail there is no Suella option on the table here because both Rwanda and the UK want to stay within international law.

Meanwhile a veteran Tory MP told the Mail last night that the view among MPs was that Mrs Braverman repeated what she had said before, but it is time to move on.

The die-hards around her will cheer, but many others will say, Youve made your point, now stay silent, lets move on  weve got an election to fight, they said.

Rwandas foreign affairs minister Vincent Biruta said his country would not continue with the deal if it broke international law.

Jenrick's resignation came just an hour after a plea by Rishi Sunak for the party to unite or die over his Rwanda policy

Jenrick was Minister for Immigration between 25 October 2022 and 6 December 2023

Speculation about Mr Jenricks position reached fever pitch because he was nowhere to be seen while Home Secretary James Cleverly made a statement to MPs on the legislation at 6pm last night, 90 minutes after it was published.

JENRICK'S RECORD IN OFFICE: MIGRANTS UP, MURALS DOWN Robert Jenrick became Minister for Immigration at the Home Office in October 2022. In the year ending June 2023, there were 52,530 irregular migrants detected entering the UK , up 17% from the year ending June 2022 (source: Gov.uk). Aside from his failure to 'stop the boats', Jenrick will probably be best remembered for ordering a colourful mural to be painted over at an asylum cenytre for unaccompanied children. Charities branded the move 'heartless'. Advertisement

The Bill  intended to overcome the Supreme Court ruling last month which declared the scheme unlawful  will disapply parts of the Human Rights Act and unambiguously prevent meddling by the courts, Mr Cleverly said.

It also sets out that only ministers  and not unelected judges  can decide whether to comply with Strasbourg injunctions designed to block the scheme.

However, Tory Right-wingers were angered by the inclusion of an apparent loophole which will allow those selected for removal to Rwanda to lodge legal challenges based on individual circumstances.

Mr Sunak won support from more centrist MPs, including the One Nation group. Tory whips had warned him that as many as ten ministers could quit if the Government tried to override the ECHR.

When he made his plea for unity last night, Mr Sunak referred to his first appearance before the 1922 Committee after being elected Tory leader just over a year ago. Back then, he warned fractious MPs they must unite or die. Last night he said this was one of those moments.

Tory MP Bob Seely said MPs heeded Mr Sunaks call, saying they should stick together. He told Times Radio: These are complex problems. Youve got 100million people globally on the move over the next few years and we simply cannot throw open our welfare state to anyone who can get here.

Last night, Mr Sunak wrote to Mr Jenrick saying he had a fundamental misunderstanding of the Bill. The PM said his resignation was disappointing and added that Rwanda would not accept a scheme in breach of international law.

Mr Sunak added: There would be no point in passing a law that would leave us with nowhere to send people to.
Falzon stormed out of court upon hearing he was a cheater

A woman accused of murdering her boyfriend inside a suburban drug den has stormed out of court upon learning she had not been his only lover.

Linda Lee Falzon, 43, is accused of murdering James McColgan, 61, inside his home at Sunbury, on the north-west fringe of Melbourne, where the pair lived with other addicts and drug dealers.

On Tuesday, Falzon learned her friend had also been sleeping with Mr McColgan, causing her to walk out of the prison media room where she had been watching a preliminary court hearing that will determine if she stands trial.

The Melbourne Magistrates' Court heard Falzon is accused of plunging a knife into Mr McColgan's chest and leaving him to bleed out on the floor.

No motive has been established for the alleged murder of the tattooist, with several other people identified as possible suspects.

One of those people had allegedly told Falzon to stab Mr McColgan with a screwdriver.

The home had been given to Mr McColgan by his mother and converted into a suburban cesspit where junkies gathered to sell, buy and use drugs.

Linda Lee Falzon has been charged over the murder of her lover James McColgan

At the time of his death, Mr McColgan had just landed a $100,000 compensation payout for being a victim of sexual abuse as a child.

Samantha Attard - who was 23 years Mr McColgan's junior - had kept her sexual relationship with Mr McColgan secret until Monday, when she told Falzon's barrister Adam Chernok.

It was Ms Attard who found Mr McColgan's bloody body and reported it to police.

The court heard that Mr McColgan had owed Ms Attard thousands of dollars at the time and had promised to buy her a car.

'I didn't want to say anything to anyone because of the age difference. I'm the same age as his son,' Ms Attard told the court.

The court heard Ms Attard had been sleeping with Mr McColgan behind Falzon's back for five months before his death.

But it was her description of how the pair first came to consummate their relationship that saw Falzon storm out of the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre media room.

Linda Lee Falzon stormed out of a court hearing upon learning her dead lover had been two-timing her

'He come up to me, standing at the back of me, and he goes "I think I'm going to kiss you". We were very close, had a lot in common, always made each other laugh and it just went from one thing to another,' Ms Attard told the court.

'I didn't want to say too much to anyone because of the age.'

Falzon refused to return to the hearing, forcing Mr Chernok to carry on without her.

Ms Attard said Falzon had no idea she had been sleeping with her boyfriend.

Falzon had hooked-up with Mr McColgan while homeless.

The court heard police found Mr McColgan bleeding out by the front door of the house and died at the scene despite the efforts of paramedics to revive him.

Police who attended the the home described it as filthy, with dirty, uncapped syringes scattered throughout.

Mr Chernok said the house was littered with food scraps and the rooms packed with 'rubbish and debris'.

The filthy drug den where Linda Lee Falzon allegedly stabbed to death her two-timing lover

Linda Lee Falzon was found hiding in this backyard after the home had supposedly been cleared by detectives

Such was the filth, an unarmed officer found Falzon in the backyard hiding behind a discarded shopping trolley after detectives had supposedly 'secured the crime scene'.

Ms Attard told the court up to half-a-dozen people and a dog had been staying at the house, with at least eight people a day attending to buy drugs from a dealer who resided there.

She told the court people staying in the house were shooting-up drugs and smoking both cannabis and methamphetamine.

She told the court one of those residents had once threatened to 'slice her from top to bottom'.

That man had been known to go 'crazy' with a hammer and smash-up the place.

Ms Attard said, on one occasion, the man told Falzon how to go about committing a murder in what was described as 'the screwdriver incident'.

'You know what to do. Drive it in. Drive it in hard,' Ms Attard recalled him saying.

'I heard a conversation between him and Ms Falzon.'

The hearing continues.
Former Vice President Mike Pence's name has reportedly been included in a list of more than 150 witnesses that prosecutors in Georgia could call to testify for Donald Trump's trial in the state on charges he sought to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

Pence has previously appeared before a grand jury in special counsel Jack Smith's federal probe into Trump's efforts to subvert President Joe Biden's victory.

The list of witnesses in Georgia has not been made public and was first reported by CNN. A Fulton County grand jury in August indicted Trump and 18 others, accusing them of participating in a wide-ranging scheme to keep Trump in office.

In January 2021, Pence found himself in the crosshairs of the lunatic fringe who invaded the US Capitol after the former governor of Indiana certified the results of the presidential election, ousting Trump from office.

'Despite what the former president and his allies have said for now more than two and a half years and continue to insist  the Georgia election was not stolen, and I had no right to overturn the election on January 6,' Pence said in August.

Trump and Pence pictured in happier times during the 2016 Republican National Convention in Cleveland

In October, the former Indiana governor quietly ended his presidential campaign

Last week, one of Trump's lawyers, Steven Sadow, said that Trump should be exempt from a trial in Georgia if he wins the 2024 presidential election.

The former Apprentice host is currently the Republican frontrunner for nomination, despite the numerous legal entanglements he faces, being impeached twice and tanking the economy during the final months of his presidency.

In October, Pence quietly ended his campaign for the nomination.

Sadow's remarks show how Trump could use his campaign and a possible second four-year term in office to delay those cases, even in state courts where he would be unable to pardon himself and would not have control over the prosecutions.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis last week requested the Georgia trial begin in August 2024, a timeline that would likely extend the proceedings through Election Day and into early 2025.

'What would be the state's response that having this trial on Election Day is election interference?' Judge Scott McAfee asked prosecutors.

'The district attorney has made it clear that she has no interest in interfering or getting involved with this presidential election,' prosecutor Nathan Wade said during the hearing. 'Her sole focus is to move this case forward.'

Trump has objected to the proposed August trial.

'Can you imagine that notion of the Republican nominee for president not being able to campaign for the presidency because he is in some form or fashion in a courtroom defending himself?' Sadow asked during the hearing.

Trump is ahead in Arizona and Georgia but trails Biden in Wisconsin

Former President Donald Trump is the clear frontrunner for the Republican 2024 nomination

Trump and 14 co-defendants have pleaded not guilty to racketeering and other charges as part of what prosecutors allege was a coordinated scheme to reverse Trump's narrow defeat in Georgia following the 2020 election.

Four of the original 19 defendants have pleaded guilty to lesser charges in return for agreeing and to cooperate with the prosecution.

McAfee did not set a trial date on Friday, but expressed skepticism that all 15 remaining defendants could be tried together.

On Thursday, four Republican candidates, minus Trump, will make their respective cases before the American public on the debate stage in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Trump, who has staged public appearances to compete for attention during the three prior GOP debates, will this time spend the evening at a closed-door fundraiser in Florida.

The four competitors are former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

The candidates recent maneuvers, though, suggest they will spend more time going after each other than taking aim at Trump, and many Republican power players say there are diminishing returns in attacking the former president given his popularity among Republicans.
Alien life might be even stranger - and closer to home - than we ever previously thought, according to a new study.

Scientists have revealed that Mercury's north pole might have the right conditions to support some 'extreme forms of life'.

A new study from the Planetary Research Institute suggests that life could exist within glaciers of salt, hidden beneath the surface of the otherwise uninhabitable planet.

The researchers even say that there are comparable areas on Earth where life exists, despite the harsh conditions.

'This line of thinking leads us to ponder the possibility of subsurface areas on Mercury that might be more hospitable than its harsh surface,' said Dr Alexis Rodriguez, lead author of the study.

Scientists have revealed that Mercury's north pole might have the right conditions to support some 'extreme forms of life'

Scientists have found evidence that glaciers of salt once flowed in Mercury's Raditladi and Eminescu craters near the North Pole

Mercury: Key Facts Equatorial Circumference: 9,525 miles Distance from the Sun: 36 million miles Surface Temperature: -292F to 806F Day Length: 59 Earth days Year length: 88 Earth days Moons: None Advertisement

Using images from NASA's MESSENGER probe, the researchers examined the geology of Mercury's north pole.

Using this data the researchers discovered evidence that glaciers of salt may once have flowed through the planet's Raditladi and Eminescu craters.

But these glaciers are not like those we are familiar with on Earth.

Rather than being composed of ice, Mercury's glaciers are made of salts which trapped volatile compounds such as water, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide.

When Mercury was hit by space rocks, craters blasted through the outer layer of basalt rock, allowing these volatile compounds to flow out of the ground and form glaciers.

As the closest planet to the Sun, Mercury reaches temperatures of 806F (430C) during the day, meaning these volatile chemicals have since evaporated away.

However, the scientists were able to find where the glaciers had been by looking for features recognizable from Earth.

The researchers used photos taken by NASA's MESSENGER probe to look for the evidence that there is a layer of volatile-rich salt beneath the planet's surface

The scientists compared Mercury's craters (top) with geological features found on Earth like a landslide at Holbeck Hall, Scarborough (bottom)

READ MORE: Mercury's giant iron core was formed because planet was close to magnetic sun Advertisement

Dr Rodriguez said: 'Our models strongly affirm that salt flow likely produced these glaciers and that after their emplacement they retained volatiles for over 1 billion years.'

This means that there is likely a vast layer of salt beneath Mercury's surface, hidden from the fierce heat of the sun and packed with the volatile compounds that could support life.

Dr Rodriguez points out that similar habitats have been able to support life here on Earth.

He explained: 'Specific salt compounds on Earth create habitable niches even in some of the harshest environments where they occur, such as the arid Atacama Desert in Chile.'

Until now, researchers believe dthat Mercury was not capable of supporting any life at all.

This diagram shows how salt glaciers may have formed after a volatile-rich layer beneath the basalt surface of the planet was exposed to the intense heat of the sun

Researchers say that certain salt compounds can support life even in the most extreme conditions just like here in Peru's Atacama Desert

Scientists believed that the huge fluctuations in temperature, lack of atmosphere, and constant bombardment of solar radiation made the planet inhospitable.

While water had been found frozen deep within some craters, it is only in these layers hidden beneath the planet's surface that life would have had any chance to develop.

Just as Earth sits in a 'Goldilocks zone' at the right distance from the Sun, the scientists speculate that there could be a similar Goldilocks zone beneath the planets surface.

Dr Rodriguez added: 'This groundbreaking discovery of Mercurian glaciers extends our comprehension of the environmental parameters that could sustain life, adding a vital dimension to our exploration of astrobiology also relevant to the potential habitability of Mercury-like exoplanets.'

This study also offers an explanation for one of Mercury's greatest mysteries.

Mercury's craters are dotted with strange pits and hollows in a formation which co-author Deborah Domingue says 'has long baffled planetary scientists.'

This research suggests that the pits were formed when glaciers of salt were evaporated by the intense heat of Mercury's days, leaving behind an empty space.

'The proposed solution hypothesizes that clusters of hollows within impact craters may originate from zones of VRL exposures induced by impacts,' says Dr Domingue.

However, what remains a mystery is how this volatile-rich layer formed in the first place.

Dr Rodriguez suggests that the layer may have been deposited when a hot, primordial atmosphere collapsed onto the planet's surface.

Another solution, proposed by Dr Domingue, is that dense, salty steam leaked from the planet's volcanic interior and temporarily settled into pools before evaporating.
Experts have revealed a scientifically-proven hack to make the perfect shot of espresso.

Spritzing beans with water before grinding them is a technique known as the 'Ross Droplet Technique.'

When coffee beans are ground, their cracking and tumbling motion creates static electric charges.

That electricity can make espresso grounds clump together and stick to the grinder - darker roasts and finer grinding both add to the charge created by grinding.

The result is a shot of espresso that's not as evenly extracted as it could be, which can lead to 'unpredictably unpleasant espresso,' according to the new study.

Spritzing your coffee beans with a little bit of water before grinding them can reduce static charge buildup, leading to more consistent grounds and better extraction

The team of scientists at the University of Oregon found that spraying as little as 20 microliters of water (20 millionths of a liter) per gram of whole coffee beans before grinding will do the trick, researchers found.

This is the equivalent of two or three spritzes of water from a small spray bottle per shot of espresso.

They only looked at whole beans ground in a burr grinder for this study, but some of their brewing tests indicate that pre-ground coffee could benefit from a little water, too.

The results were published Wednesday in the journal Matter.

'Moisture, whether it's residual moisture inside the roasted coffee or external moisture added during grinding, is what dictates the amount of charge that is formed during grinding,' senior author Christopher Hendon said in a statement.

'Water not only reduces static electricity and therefore reduces mess as you're grinding, but it can also make a major impact on the intensity of the beverage and, potentially, the ability to access higher concentrations of favorable flavors,' he added.

To conduct this study, the team started off by measuring how much static charge whole coffee beans accumulate when they rub against different surfaces.

Starbucks Blonde Espresso Roast beans were rolled down a vibrating ramp, where they tumbled into a Faraday cup, a device that measures electrical charge.

Repeating this experiment with different coatings on the ramp, researchers found that the beans acquired minimal charge against metal, and a positive charge against PVC plastic or mylar - a material used in coffee bean bags.

A fine mist of water sprayed over coffee beans before grinding will create a more uniform consistency, especially with dark roast coffee that's finely ground

Rolling the beans down glass and nylon, on the other hand, created a negative charge.

When rubbing materials together creates an electric charge, this is called the triboelectric effect.

It's the same force that makes styrofoam packing peanuts stick together, or that makes you accidentally shock someone after shuffling wool socks across carpet.

The triboelectric effect also comes into play in thunderclouds, when air and water molecules tumble against each other to create electricity. Or in a volcanic plume, when tiny particles of pumice and other minerals collide in their flight.

Grounds without water added carry more static electrical charge, making them scatter (left). Grounds with water added fall straight down (right).

Next, the scientists ground coffee beans from different places, roasted to different levels and moisture contents to measure the results of the triboelectric effect during grinding.

Rolling beans down a ramp created a charge, but grinding turns this effect way up, as the metal blades in a burr grinder not only crunch and fracture the beans, but the grounds rub against each other, building up electrical charges.

Catching the grounds in a Faraday cup, the team found that beans with higher moisture content carried less of an electrical charge.

A more even grind can result in a more consistent brew, and less likelihood that unpleasant flavors will occur

A tiny spritz of water may be all it takes to bring your espresso game to the next level, scientists say

Lighter roasts also accumulated less of a static charge during grinding.

Part of this could be because the light roasts retain more moisture, but also because darker roasts are more brittle, changing the physical properties when beans fracture.

Grinding beans more finely also created more electrical charge, probably because fine grinding creates more particles that can collide with each other more times, giving more opportunities to create the triboelectric effect.

Unfortunately, this creates a double whammy for espresso, which tends to use finely ground dark roast coffee beans.

Taking a lesson from these results, the researchers attempted to replicate the effects of higher-moisture beans by simply adding water before grinding.

Known as the Ross Droplet Technique, some baristas and coffee obsessives have been known to spray beans with a bit of water before grinding.

The team found that, as the water-to-bean ratio approached 20 microliters of water per 1 gram of beans, the static charge accumulated during grinding approached zero.

For anyone who wants to try the Ross Droplet Technique at home, this probably means adding two or three sprays from a tiny bottle for every 15 grams of beans.

They found this result a bit surprising, since spraying water on the beans right before grinding doesn't give the moisture a chance to absorb into the beans.

Nonetheless, it worked.

Spraying coffee beans with 5 microliters of water per gram of coffee helped reduced static charge, but did not eliminate it

'It also resulted in near-zero grounds being retained by the grinder, an observation that has implications for reducing waste and increasing quality of beverages,' they wrote in the study.

So what did this mean for the espresso they brewed?

First off, each shot of espresso took about 50 percent longer for the moistened beans. They suspect this is because the bed of grounds was denser with the added water and with the reduced electric charge helping to create a finer grind.

Second, the moistened beans produced slightly more concentrated coffee - 8.9 percent total dissolved solids, compared with 8.2 percent for the dry beans.

Some further analysis revealed that the moistened grounds probably produce a more even extraction, as there is less empty space between particles.

This means the water flows through the whole bed of grounds, rather than creeping through empty pathways as it might in dryer beans.

All in all, they say this preparation method should get rid of some unpredictability in brewing, result in more consistent espresso shots.

Because of the improvement in brewing, not just grinding, it's possible that spraying pre-ground beans could improve their brew quality and consistency.

The team only tested this effect on espresso, but they say it could apply to other brewing techniques.

'The central material benefit of adding water during grinding is that you can pack the bed more densely because there's less clumping,' Hendon said.

'Espresso is the worst offender of this, but you would also see the benefit in brew formats where you pour water over the coffee or in small percolation systems like a stovetop Bialetti. Where you're not going to see a benefit during brewing is for methods like the French press, where you submerge the coffee in water.'
A venomous eight-inch-long spider native to Asia, whose palm-sized females cannibalize their male mates, is flying up America's east coast and spreading out west.

Experts say the Joro spider can fly 50 to 100 miles at a stretch, using their webbing as a parasail to glide in the wind, and it's now also hitching rides up east coast highways  but the creatures aren't known to pose a threat to humans or pets.

However, the jury is still out on the impact that this giant spider, which is believed to have first arrived in the US a decade ago via shipping containers arriving in Georgia, might have on local wildlife.

One thing that is certain, according to an ecologist at Rutgers University's Lockwood Lab in New Jersey, who spoke with DailyMail.com: 'Soon enough, possibly even next year, they should be in New Jersey and New York.'

A venomous 8-inch-long spider native to Asia, whose palm-sized females cannibalize their male mates, is flying up America's east coast and even spreading out west

Experts say the Joro spider can fly 50 to 100 miles at a stretch, using their webbing as a parasail to glide in the wind, and is hitching rides up east coast highways. One ecologist says it will be in New York and New Jersey 'soon enough, possibly even next year'

'Because their main methods of dispersal are to either 'balloon' with the wind, or hitch rides on cars,' PhD student and ecologist Jose R. Ramirez-Garofalo told DailyMail.com, 'they are generally going to spread to where the wind blows, or where humans are.'

Ramirez-Garofalo, who currently conducts research for Rutgers' Lockwood Lab, added that while the Joro spider will likely be able to take advantage of warming temperatures along the northeastern seaboard, their hitchhiking and parachuting methods are sure to take them farther than some other invasives.

'Their range expansion is more complicated than the typical northward expansion that you see with a lot of species under current climate conditions,' Ramirez-Garofalo told DailyMail.com.

'Right now, we are seeing them dispersing into Maryland,' as the ecologist recently told Staten Island Advance. 'It is a matter of when, not if.'

Last month, other ecological and entomological researchers in New York, Tennessee, Texas and South Carolina pooled their resources in an effort to predict just how fast and how far the invasive Joro spider was likely to spread.

The short answer is far and wide across the continental United States, Canada and even parts of Mexico.

Their findings, published in the journal Ecology and Evolution, 'add evidence that T. clavata [the short form of the Joro's species name, Trichonephila clavata] is an invasive species and deserves much more ecological scrutiny,' they wrote

'While impacts of T. clavata on human or pet health have not been documented,' they said, 'our data show that their ecological impacts may not be similarly benign.'

The researchers hope their estimates  based on captured spiders and climate comparisons between North American regions and the Joro's habitats in Japan, China, Korea and Taiwan  will spur action to protect domestic spider species.

'These patterns should strongly motivate funding institutions and researchers alike to turn their attention toward this invasion,' they wrote, 'and consider ways to mitigate its impacts on native communities.'

Last month, other ecological and entomological researchers in New York, Tennessee, Texas and South Carolina pooled their resources in an effort to predict just how fast and how far the invasive Joro spider was likely to spread. The short answer is far and wide across the US

The researchers hope their estimates  based on captured spiders and climate comparisons with North American regions and the Joro's home habitats in Japan, China, Korea and Taiwan  will spur action to protect domestic spider species

But Ramirez-Garofalo at Rutgers, who also serves as vice president of Protectors of Pine Oak Woods on Staten Island, expressed caution about overly demonizing the Joro or panicking over its possible ecosystem impacts.

'While this is always a concern with newly invasive species,' Ramirez-Garofalo told DailyMail.com, 'the Joro spider does not seem to be a major threat to the native biodiversity.'

While Joros are venomous, experts have stated that they are not a threat to humans, dogs or cats, and won't bite unless they are feeling very threatened.

'In fact, if you look at the literature,' Ramirez-Garofalo told DailyMail.com, 'there have been no documented fatalities, nor any notable medically significant bites.'

'Taken together with their behavior (they are very reluctant to bite) and the evidence from the literature, they really pose no threat to humans or our pets,' he said.

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If they do bite, then it will feel like an occasional pinch as the spiders' fangs aren't big and sharp enough to break through human skin, according to Paula Cushing, an arachnologist at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, who allowed one to go onto her palm.

In contrast, the Joro spider mostly preys on flies, mosquitos and stink bugs  with the latter being not only a threat to crops, but a threat that currently enjoys free reign without natural predators in many parts of the US.

Researchers say that the Joro could be a blessing in disguise for farmers and that they should be left alone.

'There's really no reason to go around actively squishing them,' said University of Georgia researcher Benjamin Frick.

'Humans are at the root of their invasion,' Frick said. 'Don't blame the Joro.'

More than 150 years ago, a cousin of the Joro spider called the golden silk spider also made its way to the United States from South America and the Caribbean.

However, unlike the Joro, these spiders do not have the same body-like features to spread in different climates across the country as they mainly stay in the southeast of the US.

The lifecycle of Joro spiders usually ends by late autumn or early winter, albeit with one newly discovered catch: a high percentage of Joro spiders (74 percent) were found to be capable of surviving a two-minute freeze at 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

'Joro spiders had a higher survival during brief periods of below-zero temperature,' Frick and is colleagues wrote of their findings last year, 'which would be akin to a light frost during late-fall.'
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When you think about what makes a car truly useful, how fast it goes 0-60mph is not the most important factor.

But nothing sparks the imagination quite like top speed. It takes ingenuity, technology, and design to go this much faster than humans were ever meant to go.

Going fast is not just a question of building a bigger engine. World record breakers need to conceal a small but potent engine under a highly aerodynamic body to make use of all that power.

The below list - detailing the eight production cars with the highest top speeds in the world - feature vehicles that look more like spaceships or fighter jets than passenger vehicles.

And it's not all for show. Incredible speeds require lots of aerodynamic downforce to keep them from literally taking flight, which means engineers need to get creative with their designs.

They need to be able to maintain traction at legendary speeds, cut through the air like knives, and still keep the driver safe in the event of a crash.

Their engines are marvels of technology as well. In all of them, turbochargers ram air into the intake ports - sometimes at more than twice atmospheric pressure - and massive injectors provide gobs of fuel to match.

More gasoline may not be all it takes to make your engine the best for long, though. In a change from much of the past decade, one of the cars on this list is a gasoline-electric hybrid, signaling a potential shifting tide in the market.

And the field has truly shifted since 2005, when the Bugatti Veyron came out and topped 250 miles per hour, making it the world's fastest car. Now most of the world's fastest are designed to go over 300 mph.

Let's start close to the top, as we rank the eight production cars with the highest top speeds in the world:

8. Koenigsegg Agera RS: 277.9 MPH

The Agera RS held the record for world's fastest car for a while, after posting a 277.87 average speed in November 2017. It still holds the record for top speed on a public road by a street-legal car, but it has since been surpassed by others on the track. The Agera RS is no slouch, its 5-liter V8 pumping out 960 horsepower with the help of twin variable-geometry ceramic ball bearing turbochargers.

7. Czinger 21C: 281 MPH

Los Angeles-based Czinger's 3D-printed 21C presents a unique entry: Its powertrain is a gasoline-electric hybrid. A 2.88-liter twin turbo V8 drive the rear wheels, and two electric motors drive the fronts, for a combined power rating of 1,250 horsepower at an absolutely howling 10,500 RPM. It holds the record for fastest production car lap at both Laguna Seca and Circuit of the Americas.

6. SSC Tuatara: 295 MPH

This American-made hypercar rocks a 5.9-liter V8 with a flat plane crank for high revving capabilities. Like most of the cars on this list, it's twin-turbocharged and has different power ratings depending on what kind of fuel is in the tank: 91-octane gasoline yields 1,350 horsepower, while E85 fuel will push 1,750. Its drag coefficient is just 0.279, which means it slips through the air like a fish through water. It was pushed to 295 mph over 2.3 miles at Space Florida 's Launch and Landing Facility in 2022.

5. Hennesey Venom F5 Revolution Roadster: 300+ MPH

Coming in at an estimated 300+ mph top speed, we are now entering the new era of hypercars - or ultracars, or megacars, depending on whose promotional materials you read. Whichever way you slice it, the Texas-built, roofless Hennesey Venom F5 Revolution Roadster might make you lose your hat as you rocket down the road at over 300 miles per hour. With a carbon fiber body and a 6.6-liter twin turbo V8, the Venom F5 pumps out a reported 1,817 horsepower at a screaming 8,000 RPM.

4. Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+: 304 MPH

France may not be the first place you think of when you think of the fastest cars in the world, but the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ has been clocked at just a hair over 304 miles per hour. Its 8-liter W16 engine has four turbochargers and an air-water intercooler system that feed 1,600 horsepower through a seven-speed gearbox.

3. SP Automotive Chaos: 310 MPH

Greece is perhaps an even more unlikely home for a hypercar than France, but the car's ground twisting 3,065 horsepower 4-liter V10 says otherwise. The company makes a big deal of its space-age parts, like a milled billet aluminum block, carbon fiber turbocharger compressor housings, and a 3D-printed crankshaft that help the engine spin to a 10,000+ RPM redline.

2. Hennesey Venom F5 Coupe: 311 MPH

Clocking in at a few ticks faster than the Hennesey Venom F5 Revolution Roadster, the company's Coupe version has an inherently more rigid chassis, thanks to the presence of a roof. It comes from the factory with the same powertrain, though, making it one of the fastest cars in the world.

1. Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut: 330 MPH
The oldest-known fossils of mosquitoes have revealed a 'bloodsucking surprise.'

Remains of two males frozen in amber 130 million years ago featured elongated piercing-sucking mouthparts seen now only in females - the only ones that bite.

The discovery is 'a major one in the evolutionary history of mosquitoes,' according to the team's lead paleontologist.

The male specimens, these scientists argued, suggested an unlikely origin story for the blood-sucking mosquito: The insect may have evolved from a plant-sucking vegetarian ancestor.

Remains of two males frozen in amber 130 million years ago featured elongated piercing-sucking mouthparts seen now only in females - the only ones that bite

The specimens were unearthed in Lebanon, near the town of Hammana, researchers reported this week

The specimens were unearthed in Lebanon, near the town of Hammana, researchers reported this week.

'Clearly, they were hematophagous [blood-eaters],' said paleontologist Dany Azar of the Chinese Academy of Sciences Nanjing Institute of Geology and Paleontology and Lebanese University.

'In all hematophagous insects,' Azar said, 'we believe that hematophagy was a shift from plant-liquid sucking to bloodsucking.'

Plant evolution may have played a role in the feeding divergence between male and female mosquitoes too, according to Azar, who served as lead author on the new study, published this week in the journal Current Biology.

When these two male mosquitoes became stuck in tree sap that eventually became amber, according to Azar and his colleagues' analysis, flowering plants were beginning to flourish for the first time along the landscape of the Cretaceous world.

The fact that these earliest-known mosquitoes are bloodsucking males, Azar added, 'means that originally the first mosquitoes were all hematophagous - no matter whether they were males or females.'

Azar and his team said they suspect the ancient mosquito mouthparts adapted for obtaining blood meals were once originally used to pierce plants to access nutritious fluids  and in some, they evolved back to plants.

'Hematophagy was later lost in males,' Azar speculated in a statement to Reuters, 'maybe due to the appearance of flowering plants, which are contemporaneous with the formation of Lebanese amber.'

Researchers said that they suspect the ancient mosquito mouthparts that became adapted for obtaining blood meals were once originally used to pierce plants to get access to nutritious fluids  and in some, evolved back. 'maybe due to the appearance of flowering plants'

Today, hundreds of thousands of people worldwide are killed annually by malaria and other diseases spread through the bite of mosquitoes, all bites inflicted by females.

'Mosquitoes are the most notorious blood-feeders on humans and most terrestrial vertebrates, and they transmit a certain number of parasites and diseases to their hosts,' Azar said.

'Only fertilized female mosquitoes will suck blood because they need proteins to make their eggs develop,' the scientist noted.

'Males and unfertilized females will eat some nectar from plants. And some males do not feed at all,' he added.

While some flying insects  tsetse flies, for instance  have hematophagous males, modern mosquitoes of roughly 3,500 species worldwide do not.

'Finding this behavior in the Cretaceous is quite surprising,' paleontologist and study co-author Andre Nel of the National Museum of Natural History of Paris told Reuters.

Researchers noted that the delicate anatomy of the two Cretaceous mosquitoes was beautifully preserved in the fossils.

Both displayed exceptionally sharp, triangle-shaped jaw anatomy and an elongated structure with tooth-like projections.

Plenty of animals would have existed to provide blood meals for these specimens: everything from dinosaurs to flying reptiles called pterosaurs to other reptiles, birds and mammals.

The researchers said these are currently the oldest mosquito fossils, but this kind of insect probably originated millions of years earlier.

They noted that molecular evidence suggests mosquitoes arose from about 200 million to 145 million years ago during the Jurassic Period.

Today, modern mosquitoes are found everywhere except Antarctica.

Some become disease vectors transmitting malaria, yellow fever, Zika fever, dengue and other diseases. According to the United Nations World Health Organization, more than 400,000 people die annually from malaria, a parasitic infection, primarily children under age five.

But: 'On the other side, mosquitoes help to purify the water in ponds, lakes and rivers,' Nel noted. 'In general, an animal can be a problem but also can be helpful.'
An ancient postage stamp-sized tablet could bear the earliest inscription of the Hebrew name for God: Yahweh.

International archaeologists believe the small folded sheet of lead found in the West Bank was created at least 3,200 years ago and features text calling on God to curse anyone who breaks their word.

If confirmed by future research, the discovery would make it nearly 2,000 years older than the previous find - The Mesha Stele slab, which dates back to 840 BC.

The team translated the 48 letters to read: 'Cursed, cursed, cursed  cursed by Yahweh.'

The tablet was found at the Biblical Mount Elba, said to be in the Promised Land, and could feature writing older than any known Hebrew inscription from ancient Israel.

An ancient postage stamp-sized tablet could bear the earliest inscription of the Hebrew name of God

The small artifact was discovered during excavations on Mount Ebal, named in the Bible as part of the Israelite's escape from ancient Egypt.

Scripture states that Moses was to build an altar on the mountain after delivering the Israelites from slavery, but due to his rebellion, he was banned from entering the Promised Land.

Moses's successor, Joshua, is said to have built the altar on Ebal that renewed the Covenant - and archeologist Adam Zertal uncovered it more than 17 years ago.

The altar is made of stones stacked on each other, located toward the peak.

A team recently returned to the site in the mountains of Samaria, located about 31 miles north of Jerusalem, to continue Zertal's work.

Scott Stripling, director of the Archaeological Studies Institute at The Bible Seminary in Texas, said: 'These types of curse tablets are well known in the Hellenistic and Roman periods, but Zertal's excavated pottery dated to the Iron Age I and Late Bronze Age, so logically the tablet derived from one of these earlier periods. Even so, our discovery of a Late Bronze Age inscription stunned me.'

The tablet was found at the Biblical Mount Elba, said to be in the Promised Land, and could feature writing older than any known Hebrew inscription from ancient Israel

The team has translated the 48 letters to read: 'Cursed, cursed, cursed  cursed by Yahweh.'

Archaeologists found the tablet in 2019 among discarded material from Zertal's expedition that lasted for 17 years.

It is a single strip of lead, folded in half, and when separated, would have resembled a tiny two-page booklet - but opening it would damage it.

The inscription consists of 48 letters in 14-word sets, which occur in three formulaic patterns, which reads in full: 'You are cursed by the god, cursed. You will die cursedcursed. Cursed by you are by yhw cursed.'

Researchers found the term 'arur,' meaning 'cursed, ' appeared 12 times on each side labeled 'Outer' and 'Outer B' - six on each side.

And it appears the creator wrote in different directions: left to right, right to left, top to bottom, bottom to top, and alternative lines.

'Eight of the 22 letters in the Canaanite/Hebrew alphabet appear in the 'Inner B' inscription,' the team wrote in the study published in the Heritage Science Journal.

'All letters represent a variety of forms and stances, as the relevant tables and figures demonstrate.'

The curse, according to researchers, echoes the scripture Genesis 9:6: '

Whoever sheds human blood, by humans shall their blood be shed.'

Researchers found the term 'arur,' meaning 'cursed, ' appeared 12 times on each side labeled 'Outer' and 'Outer B' - six on each side

The team also performed a chemical analysis, finding the lead used to fashion that tablet came from a mine in the Aegean, Greece that was operating when it was made

Pieter Gert van der Veen of Johannes Gutenberg-Universitat Mainz in Germany, who was involved in the discovery, said: 'From the symmetry, I could tell that it was written as a chiastic parallelism.'

According to van der Veen, reading the concealed letters proved tedious, 'but each day we recovered new letters and words written in a very ancient script.'

The team also performed a chemical analysis, finding the lead used to fashion that tablet came from a mine in the Aegean, Greece that was operating when it was made.

'We have an ancient text saying that the Israelites arrived around 1400 [B.C.], and then we have evidence of them on a mountain where the Bible says that they were, writing a language that the Bible says that they used,' Stripling told Live Science.

'I think a fair-minded person might be willing to draw the conclusion, inductively, that there were Israelites there.'

However, not all archaeologists are convinced - a study published this month claimed the tablet was used as a fishing lure.

Archaeologist Aren Maeir of Israels Bar-Ilan University told Live Science that he and his team also performed an X-ray on the tablet and found no such inscriptions.

But the were etchings as a result of weathering.
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It's been billed as the 'ultimate safari'. And with some justification - because it costs 140,965 ($172,545) per person.

But for this eye-watering price tag, guests on the tour of Africa - by Go2Africa - will gather enough memories to last several lifetimes.

Go2Africa reveals that the 'expertly curated' itinerary, which took years to perfect, packs in six countries across 24 'action-packed' days, with the safari travel company declaring that 'no expense has been spared' on a trip that takes in some of the African continent's great wonders, from magnificent waterfalls to exclusive private islands.

And the accommodation? Luxurious to say the least, from glorious tented safari camps to riverside treetop villas and 'exclusive activities with experts you could only dream of meeting'. Not to mention 'some of the best nature the world has to offer'.

Tourists are guaranteed to see Africa's 'Big 5' along the way and will receive personalised and locally-made leather luggage before their trip, along with having the option of a private film crew to document the odyssey - so not a single moment is missed. Those booked on the trip will begin their three-week adventure in Nairobi, Kenya, enjoying a 'scenic' helicopter ride to the Masai Mara Nature Reserve.

Go2Africa has launched the 'ultimate safari', which costs 140,965 ($172,545) per person. Pictured is the Alfajiri Beach Villa in Kenya, where guests will stay for three nights

The three-level Alfajiri Beach Villa (pictured) at Diani Beach comes with a team of on-hand staff, consisting of a masseuse, chef and butler

Go2Africa says guests will spend three days enjoying the 'azure waters' and white sand of Diani Beach (pictured)

The first stop on the itinerary is Mara Plains, a 'luxury' tented camp in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy in the Masai Mara, booked out 'exclusively for your party'.

The head of the party will stay in the Jahazi Suite - 'intimate two-bedroom tented luxury' - which comes complete with a private swimming pool and an 'extensive outdoor verandah, offering incredible views of the steady stream of wildlife parading past'.

Here, guests will enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon excursion, giving them 'plenty of chance' to spot the African wildlife.

Go2Africa says breakfast will be ready once you land. The party can then hop in a safari vehicle and enjoy a gamedrive back to base.

Day three offers a private helicopter flight to Reteti Elephant Sanctuary.

Then it's a transfer to Alfajiri Beach Villa at Diani Beach, where there's plenty of time to relax and take in the 'azure waters' and white sand beaches.

Guests are guaranteed to see Africa's 'Big 5' along the way and will receive personalised and locally-made leather luggage before their trip

Guests will spend three nights in the 'luxury' Mara Plains (above) in the Masai Mara

'No expense is spared,' says Go2Africa about the 'perfectly curated' three-week experience. Pictured is a lion close to the Mara Plains camp

The three-level villa offers 'elevated views over the Indian Ocean, an expansive lawn and a sun-soaked swimming pool' as well as an on-hand team of staff, consisting of a masseuse, chef and butler.

For those not yet ready to rest, there are various activities available - including kite surfing, snorkelling, deep sea fishing and excursions to Kisite Marine National Park in traditional dhow sailing boats.

One week in, guests will 'travel via light aircraft to the Zambezi River in Zambia', and stay at Tongabezi Lodge for three nights in a private villa called the Dog House.

'The lodge guarantees spectacular views of the mighty Zambezi River from each window, sofa, bed and bath,' says Go2Africa.

One week in, guests will 'travel via light aircraft to the Zambezi River in Zambia ', and stay at Tongabezi Lodge (above)

Lap of luxury: The party will spend three nights in a private villa called the Dog House

Guests will enjoy spectacular views of Victoria Falls (pictured) during a helicopter trip dubbed 'The Flight Of the Angels'

On the second day travellers will take a helicopter ride known as 'The Flight Of the Angels'.

It begins at Victoria Falls and takes in the colossal Batoka Gorge before passing back over the Falls and onwards to the Upper Zambezi .

From there a brisk two-night stay in Cape Town, South Africa, follows.

After a business-class flight, guests will find themselves in the 'world-famous' Ellerman House, an original Cape Edwardian Mansion that Go2Africa says is a favourite among celebrities, including Meryl Streep and the Kardashians.

The party will spend two nights in the 'world-renowned' Ellerman House (above) in Cape Town. Go2Africa says it's a favourite among celebrities and has been enjoyed by the Kardashians and Meryl Streep

Guests will arrive at Ellerman House in style, around two weeks in, after taking a business-class flight from Zambia

Included in the stay is a private ocean safari of the Cape Town coastline, a full-day road trip in a Land Rover Discovery and a helicopter tour of the Cape Peninsula.

After almost two weeks exploring Go2Africa offers guests the opportunity to 'wind down' for three days at the Future Found Sanctuary, located just a short drive away in Hout Bay.

The seven-acre private estate is located 'at the tip of Africa'. Here guests are encouraged to enjoy various facilities and 'invigorating experiences', including foraging, yoga, breathwork and Tai Chi.

There's also a spa with a 'small hammam, two treatment rooms, a space for relaxing and a gym, as well as two pools, one heated and one filled with mountain spring water for invigorating cold plunges'.

After almost two weeks exploring Go2Africa offers guests the opportunity to 'wind down' for three days at the Future Found Sanctuary

The seven-acre private estate is located 'at the tip of Africa'. Here guests are encouraged to enjoy various facilities and 'invigorating experiences', including foraging, yoga, breathwork and Tai Chi

Edging towards the end of the itinerary, guests will fly to Singita Kwitonda Lodge for three nights.

It sits on the edge of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and here guests will have the chance to join a Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund researcher on a sustainable gorilla trek.

Go2Africa says: 'The lodge features luxurious suites with a private heated plunge pool, wellness treatment area, in-and-outdoor fireplaces and large timber-framed windows that welcome breathtaking scenery and volcano views inside.'

The penultimate experience involves taking a helicopter and a small aircraft to the Grumeti Game Reserve in the Serengeti. Guests will stay in the Singita Serengeti House 'at the heart of the bush' and enjoy a balloon safari adventure on their second day.

The Singita Kwitonda Lodge in Rwanda (pictured) offers 'luxurious suites with a private heated plunge pool, wellness treatment area, in-and-outdoor fireplaces and large timber-framed windows'. Guests will stay here for three nights

The party can join a Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund researcher on a sustainable gorilla trek during their stay in Rwanda

A journey by helicopter and small aircraft will bring guests to Singita Serengeti House in 'the heart of the bush' (above)

The tailored Go2Africa experience promises guests 'some of the best nature the world has to offer'. Pictured is the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. Which is on the itinerary

Finally, the itinerary lists a flight via a Cessna Caravan light aircraft to the private island of Cousine in the Seychelles.

Apart from the staff Go2Africa says 'you'll not see another soul for miles', during the 'lavish and exclusive' three-day getaway to Cousine Resort.

The island, which is '100 per cent dedicated to nature conservation', offers a range of activities, including nature walks and snorkelling.

The final stop on the three-week journey is a visit to the private island of Cousine (above), where guests will stay at the 'lavish' Cousine Resort

Guests will spend three nights on Cousine Island (above), where Go2Africa promises 'you'll not see another soul for miles'

Lee-Anne Kock, Head of Product at Go2Africa, says: 'The Ultimate African Safari is a one-of-a-kind itinerary that we've spent years perfecting. Every activity, location and accommodation has been hand-selected by our team of local experts with decades of on-the-ground experience.

'The itinerary focuses on private and exclusive travel where we've crafted curated experiences that are unique to each destination.

'Guests won't just see Africa, but experience the heart of its culture as they visit each location and become involved in the community projects that make the continent so vibrant and welcoming.'

When booking on the safari, Go2Africa promises to 'partly offset the carbon footprint of your trip' by donating to various charities associated with the tour, including the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary and Singita conservation levy.

The Ultimate Safari has a 'first come first serve availability' with four dates available between July and December 2024. Prices vary from 146,775 to 146,775 per person.

For more information about the trip, visit Go2Africa.
A travel vlogger has revealed the worst countries she's visited during her travels.

Posting on TikTok, Grace Cheng complained specifically about the 'next level scamming and harassments' in one of her three least liked destinations.

The vlogger - who goes by the username @gracietravels on the social video platform - even suggested her tour guide on one trip was 'just as bad' as the scammers, pushing pointless purchases on the group of tourists.

Read on below to find out the three countries on travel vlogger Gracie's list of her worst countries in 2023.

Egypt

Grace Cheng felt unsafe throughout her time in Egypt. She says scammers lurk around tourist attractions in attempt to trick visitors and demand money

Kicking off her list, Ms Cheng said she chose Egypt because 'everyone is trying to make money out of you'.

She also cited the feeling that, in her experience, 'the scamming and embarrassment here was next level, especially at the big tourist attractions'.

The vlogger also said that although her travel party had a tour guide present, 'he still tried to push us to buy other things so it didn't matter [that he was a guide]'.

She added how she 'didn't feel safe' even with a tour guide by her side.

'Ours had a lot of friends in the area and they just kept offering us tons and tons of upgrades, like climbing a rock to get a picture with the background,' she said.

Gracie said it felt 'scary' when she refused to pay the scammers and they kept demanding money.

'That being said though, if you have a good tour guide they will know what's real and fake when it comes to scamming. So for that you can trust them,' she added.

Gracie also would not recommend travelling to Egypt alone, especially if you're a woman.

'When it comes to men they do stare at you, and it's not even a normal stare, it's one of those really uncomfortable stares where they'll never take their eyes off of you,' she said.

Grace added that, because she went in the summer, she found it 'painfully hot', despite waking up 'every day at sunrise to beat the midday heat, [Gracie] was still drenched in sweat.

Other users seemed to be in agreement with her take on Egypt, with one replying: 'I feel you completely about Egypt! Such a beautiful place but the harassment is next level'.

Another said: 'I HARD agree with Egypt. it was filthy and the harassment was crazy. everyone is always shocked when I say I disliked traveling there.'

Singapore

Grace found her stay in the Marina Bay Sands area of Singapore to be particularly monotonous, as she said she felt like she could only pass time by eating and shopping in this part of the state

Next on the traveller's list was the city-state of Singapore, which she said she did not enjoy despite being familiar having visited previously.

Grace found her stay in the Marina Bay Sands area of Singapore to be particularly monotonous, as she said she felt like she could only pass time by eating and shopping in this part of the city.

She also bemoaned the price, which she felt 'was not worth it' for her stay, despite witnessing the world's largest rooftop infinity pool, which sits 57 storeys above the bustling streets.

'It's always so crowded and everything here is just filled with expensive restaurants that have no good food at all,' she complained.

Australia

Grace rounded off her least favourite countries of 2023 with the popular holiday destination of Australia. Pictured: the Sydney Opera House was projected with poppies on Remembrance Day 2023

Grace rounded off her least favourite countries of 2023 with the popular holiday destination of Australia.

Although she conceded that she may not have planned for her trip down under with an ideal itinerary as both her sisters were living in the country at the time, she nevertheless felt that 'there wasn't really anything that stood out' as being a particularly memorable experience.

Having visited the tourist hotspots of Melbourne, the Gold Coast, Byron Bay and Sydney, she admits she missed out by not being able to go the Great Barrier Reef.

However, the travel vlogger was highly complimentary of Sydney, which she praised for having 'great food' in the famed Spice Alley zone, which serves different types of Asian cuisine.

Others found she was unnecessarily harsh on Singapore and Australia, with one reply reading: 'Yep your itinerary in Singapore and AU sucked. The food in Singapore is amazing and there's so many hidden gems in Australia with phenomenal views.'

Another wrote: 'Sad you didnt enjoy Singapore. You need to travel away from the marina area for more authentic and good food'.
Its the runway that disappears.

And youll find it  if the timing is right - at the airport on the remote Outer Hebrides island of Barra, 40 miles off the coast of western Scotland.

Nicky Kelvin, Editor at Large at The Points Guy, investigates what must be the most unusual airport in the world in a fascinating video for a series he presents called Airplane Mode.

The travel expert explains that the disappearing act occurs because the runway is also a public beach, with the sand lost to the incoming tide twice a day.

Nickys video begins at Glasgow Airport, where he interviews two pilots for the airline that operates services in and out of Barra Airport from Glasgow twice a day  Loganair.

Nicky Kelvin, Editor at Large at The Points Guy, investigates what must be the most unusual airport in the world on the island of Barra (above). Here, the runway is also a public beach

Captain Laura Roper explains that there are no lights or guidance for landing.

Its all done by our own judgement, she says.

One bonus, though, is that the sand cushions the landing a little bit.

The interview wrapped, Captain Roper and First Officer Steven Cameron take the controls of their Twin Otter turboprop and Nicky jumps aboard for his first-ever flight to Barra.

Hes bowled over.

The sand on Barra Airport beach is lost to the tide twice a day

Nickys video begins at Glasgow Airport, where he interviews two pilots for the airline that operates services in and out of Barra Airport from Glasgow twice a day  Loganair

He told MailOnline Travel: It has been a lifelong dream of mine as a diehard aviation geek to travel to the incredibly unique airport of Barra.

Its the only commercial airport in the world with a beach as a runway, and provides for a very dramatic setting, not only because you are landing on the sand, but also because the runway disappears twice a day with the tide.

The timings of the flights need to be well planned in order to make sure there is enough space on the beach for the plane to land and take off again.

Nicky (above) told MailOnline Travel: 'It has been a lifelong dream of mine as a diehard aviation geek to travel to the incredibly unique airport of Barra'

Barra Airport is located 40 miles off the coast of western Scotland

Loganair flies turboprop Twin Otter aircraft to Barra Airport

A still from Nicky's video showing a Loganair flight coming in to land at Barra

Captain Laura Roper (left) explains that there are no lights or guidance for landing

The flight to Barra is spectacular, with Nicky revealing that the plane flies over 'blue seas and white sands that could be mistaken for the Caribbean'

He added: Its not just the concept that is dramatic and exciting, the actual landing is as amazing as you might imagine.

You come in low over some of Scotlands most stunning islands, with blue seas and white sands that could be mistaken for the Caribbean.

In fact, Barra is known to some people as Barrabados.

Once at the airport, Nicky meets Barra Airports crew manager, Steve Wilson, who takes Nicky out on a beach/runway safety check to make sure the area is free of debris that may have washed up with the tide and reveals that the airport must also make sure there are no runway incursions from cockle pickers.

Nicky meets Barra Airports crew manager, Steve Wilson, who takes Nicky out on a beach/runway safety check to make sure the area is free of debris that may have washed up with the tide

Nicky added: It was an honour to go behind the scenes at Barra airport and live out my dream by landing, taking off and exploring all the aspects of the operation within the airport.

One of the most fascinating things is that many of the staff there have multiple roles, and so the same person that might be checking you in at the checking desk is also a firefighter, an air traffic controller and a baggage handler.

To see the full video click here. For more from The Points Guy visit thepointsguy.com/uk-travel.
Airline easyJet has installed special post boxes at airports across the UK to fly children's Christmas letters to Santa.

The service was launched with easyJet expecting to fly around 200,000 families during the festive season.

Young travellers passing through London Gatwick, Luton, Bristol and Manchester airports will have the opportunity to drop off their letters via easyJet's orange post boxes.

The airline is also providing a special letter collection service for local schools near its UK airports, which will see easyJets cabin crew collecting letters to take directly to Santa.

The letters will be delivered on easyJet flights from across the UK and Europe directly to Rovaniemi in Lapland, the official home of Santa Claus.

Airline easyJet has installed special post boxes at airports across the UK to fly children's Christmas letters to Santa

The airline's post boxes will also be found at Paris Charles de Gaulle, Naples, and Milan airports throughout December.

EasyJet is set to operate its biggest-ever schedule from the UK to Lapland this year, with services to Rovaniemi up to four times a week from Bristol, London Gatwick, Luton, Edinburgh, and Manchester, and to Kittila up to two times a week from London Gatwick and Manchester.

Half of people going away this Christmas will be visiting friends and family, with one in five opting for a sunshine break, a survey by easyJet found.

And over half (70 per cent) of the kids quizzed for the poll alongside their parents worry Santa wont know where they are staying this Christmas.

The research also revealed the most surprising requests found in children's letters to Santa - according to British parents.

Young travellers passing through London Gatwick, Luton, Bristol and Manchester airports will have the opportunity to drop off their letters via easyJet's orange post boxes

The letters will be delivered on easyJet flights from across the UK and Europe directly to Rovaniemi in Lapland, the official home of Santa Claus

Banning broccoli, a pet whale, and a device that translates meows from cats were among the most unique requests.

EasyJet pilot Hannah Wells said: 'Christmas is a magical time for families and travelling somewhere festive for some winter sun, or to see friends and family can make it really special.

'We hope our Letters to Santa postal service will bring some extra magic to the thousands of families travelling with us around the holidays and to schools in our local airport communities.'
Porter is now demanding an an 'access schedule' for the dog, similar to visitation rights for divorcing couples with children

Smith's lawyers fired back during a hearing in New York in November, saying the dog belongs to him because the pet was a gift from Porter

Billy Porter claims husband Adam Smith has refused him access to their mini cockapoo, Lola, since the summer, when the couple announced their separation

Billy Porter has a new bone to pick with his estranged husband over their beloved dog, as the couple's divorce turns increasingly bitter.

The 'Pose' star, who announced his split from Adam Smith in July, claims his spouse has refused him access to their mini cockapoo, Lola, since the summer and has even changed her name.

But the fur really flew during a hearing in November when lawyers for Smith fired back claiming Lola belongs to him because the pup was a present from Porter.

Now, Porter is demanding an 'access schedule' for the dog, similar to visitation rights for divorcing couples with children, according to a report on Allegedly, a news blog run by New York City courts reporter Victoria Bekiempis.

Billy Porter claims estranged husband Adam Smith has refused him access to their mini cockapoo, Lola, after they separated in the summer and has even changed her name

A representative for the Broadway star, confirmed the divorce in July this year, saying the decision was 'amicable and mutual'

His attorneys insist the pooch is a 'marital asset' and claim Smith 'took me off as being the father.'

As both sides showed their claws, Smith even suggested that Porter was an unfit parent for doing drugs and having parties, prompting the judge to suggest daytime visits.

The flare-up happened at the New York Supreme Court during the split between Porter and Smith, a vintage swimwear designer, who announced their separation in July after six years of marriage.

At the time Porter's spokesman said it was an 'amicable and mutual' decision, but since then matters have become tense over Lola.

The former couple welcomed the dog to their family in January 2021 with the full name of Bader Lola Majors, or BLM, a nod to the Black Lives Matter movement.

They even created an Instagram profile for their pet but the account has since been deactivated, an apparent casualty of their split - though it is unclear who took it down.

At the November 15 hearing, after a discussion about financial matters, Porter's lawyer Margaret Brady told Judge Douglas Hoffman there was 'just one other small matterthe parties owned a dog'.

Judge Hoffman replied that it was 'not a small matter', adding that it 'depends what dog it is'.

Porter spoke in court to identify the dog breed: 'Cockapoo'.

Smith has argued that the adorable pooch belongs to him because she was given to him as a present from Porter

Porter is demanding an 'access schedule' for the dog, similar to visitation rights for divorcing couples with children

It was when Brady described the pet as an 'adorable little dog' that the judge revealed he was very familiar with the breed saying: 'You're talking to a former cockapoo owner'.

Brady said: 'I hope you'll be sympathetic. Defendant (Smith) has refused to give plaintiff (Porter) access to the dog since the middle of this summer. We would like an access schedule'.

Dana Stutman, Smith's lawyer replied: 'Your honor, it's not their dog. It was given as a gift'.

But Brady said that, as far as Porter was concerned, it was a 'marital asset'.

Stutman insisted it was a birthday present from Porter, though she conceded that doesn't make it 'separate property'.

She claimed that in the past seven months Porter had not asked to see Lola a single time.

Brady shot back that Porter's request was 'refused from the get-go' and that Porter would still like to see his pet.

Judge Hoffman asked when Porter would like to see the dog, but Stutman said; 'As long as he can promise he's not doing drugs, that he's not having parties.

A defiant Porter told the court: 'You will not scandalize my name like that'.

Brady suggested a deal under which both sides would 'agree that they would not do any drugs or drink any alcohol when the dog is in their possession'.

Another option was that a 'neutral third party' could be used to exchange the animal, rather than Porter and Smith doing it face to face.

The couple, who met in 2009, tied the knot in January 2017 just 16 days after getting engaged

Heartfelt: In February of this year, Porter penned a heartfelt tribute to his husband in honor of his birthday

Stutman told the court: 'I can certainly arrange for him (Porter) to see (the dog) but to stay overnight with him (Porter) is something that's very difficult.

'If you want to have a trial on whether or not there's fitness for taking care of a dog, we'll do that. But I don't think that that's really what Mr. Porter wants'.

Judge Hoffman said he didn't want to appoint a forensic veterinarian, which would be similar to a child custody hearing where experts weigh in on the child's best interests.

He suggested daytime visits for a 'substantial' amount of time and asked what the dog's name was, prompting another tense exchange.

When Stutman said 'Lola', Porter told the court: 'He (Smith) changed the name'

Brady, Porter's lawyer, said that the dog's name had been Bader, prompting Porter to recite her full name: 'Brady Lola Majors'.

After blocking access to the animal, Smith changed the name, Brady said. Porter added: 'And took me off as being the father'

When Judge Hoffman asked what the dog's name was now, Porter said: 'Lola, the mini cockapoo'. Smiths' lawyer agreed it was now Lola.

The Pose star was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame Star during a ceremony in December 2022

The judge asked both sides to 'arrange for reasonable access' and said that daytime visits were a good start.

'The dog is a member of the family. He can visit with the dog. Let's work that out reasonably. Okay?' the judge said, to which Stutman replied, yes.

Porter and Smith had briefly dated after meeting in February 2009 but Porter broke things off in 2010.

They got back together in 2015 with a brunch date and a trip to see Hamilton at the Public Theatre in New York.

Porter told Smith he loved him and he wanted to 'give it another shot' and Smith felt the same way.

They got married in January 2017 just 16 days after getting engaged because they wanted to be wed before Donald Trump took office as president.

DailyMail.com has contacted lawyers and reps for Porter and Smith.

In a statement to When asked for comment by Allegedly, Porter's PR told the website: 'Seriously? Aren't there more important things you could be writing about?'
Model Montana Cox stopped traffic in Bondi Beach on Wednesday as she took part in part in a photo shoot.

The brunette beauty, 30, who won Australia's Next Top Model 12 years ago, worked all her best angles in an orange bikini and very short beachy dress.

The Neighbours star flaunted her long and lean legs in the orange and black frock which featured a low-cut neckline.

The thin summery number with a tie detail also cinched in at her waist and revealed a hint of her cleavage.

For part of the shoot, she hid her eyes behind a pair of large retro shades and she was barefoot as she crossed the hot road.

Model Montana Cox stopped traffic in Bondi Beach on Wednesday as she took part in part in a photo shoot

At one point, she turned and picked up a giant inflatable beach toy, tucking it under her arm for some fun snaps.

Montana accessorised with a very simple gold necklace and slicked on a natural pink lipstick.

She elevated her look with a set of orange fingernails.

The brunette beauty, 30, who won Australia's Next Top Model 12 years ago, worked all her best angles in an orange bikini and very short beachy dress

At one point, she turned and picked up a giant inflatable beach toy, tucking it under her arm for some fun snaps

The Neighbours star flaunted her long and lean legs in the orange and black frock which featured a low-cut neckline

She hid her eyes behind a pair of large retro shades and went barefoot

The catwalk superstar first rose to fame on the 2011 season of Australia's Next Top Model, but in 2021 she revealed her jet-setting lifestyle since caused her to catch Covid-19 twice.

After finally recovering from the virus, she decided she was fed up with life in New York City, so packed her bags and returned Down Under.

'I have half of my apartment in New York, half of my stuff still back in London. I came back [to Australia] quickly,' she told Stellar magazine in September 2021.

She accessorised with a very simple gold necklace and slicked on a natural pink lipstick

She elevated her look with a set of orange fingernails

The catwalk superstar first rose to fame on the 2011 season of Australia's Next Top Model, but in 2021 she revealed her jet-setting lifestyle since caused her to catch Covid-19 twice

'I was in London when Covid happened and I still had my New York apartment. I got rid of the lease and got someone to pack all of my stuff.'

Following her return to Australia, Montana used her time in lockdown to fine-tune her acting skills.

She joined the cast of Neighbours shortly before the Aussie soap was cancelled.

However, her character Britney Barnes was killed off a year after being introduced, so didn't return when the show was revived by Amazon this year.

Montana patiently waiting as a crew helped adjust her earrings

She quickly jumped straight back into the snaps, discussing ideas with the photographer

She appeared to be thoroughly enjoying her job
Zooey Deschanel and Jonathan Scott put on a loved-up display in Brentwood on Tuesday afternoon.

The 43-year-old actress and the 45-year-old television personality were first seen affectionately holding hands as they crossed a street following a lunch date.

The performer, who became engaged during a trip to Scotland earlier this year, and her fiance later locked lips before they went their separate ways at the end of their time together.

Deschanel wore a black button-up top that was tucked into a striped maxi skirt as she spent time with Scott.

The 500 Days Of Summer star also wore a pair of flats that matched her top, and she accessorized with a chic leather purse.

Zooey Deschanel and Jonathan Scott put on a loved-up display in Brentwood on Tuesday afternoon

The actress' gorgeous brunette hair fell onto her shoulders and was partially held back by a black hairband.

Scott opted for a dark green button-up shirt and a slim-fitting pair of light blue jeans while he stepped out with his fiancee.

The Property Brothers star completed his look with a pair of brown boots, and he also wore a pair of sunglasses, although he removed them before locking lips with the performer.

Deschanel and the television personality initially met while filming an episode of Carpool Karaoke in 2019.

The actress was formerly married to Death Cab For Cutie frontman Ben Gibbard from 2009 until 2012.

She went on to tie the knot with Jacob Pechenik in 2015, and they went on to divorce in 2020.

The performer and her second husband share a daughter and son named Elsie, 7, and Charlie, 5.

Scott was also formerly married to Kelsy Ully, and their marriage lasted from 2007 until 2013.

The performer, who became engaged during a trip to Scotland earlier this year, and her fiance later locked lips before they went their separate ways at the end of their time together

Deschanel wore a black button-up top that was tucked into a striped maxi skirt as she spent time with Scott

The 500 Days Of Summer star also wore a pair of flats that matched her top, and she accessorized with a chic leather purse

The happy couple revealed their engagement to the public this past August; they are seen in 2020

He eventually moved on with the actress, and they revealed their engagement to the public this past August.

The television personality recently told People that he had quickly learned to make the most of his time with his fiancee and her children.

'Nothing's more important than home. And the older I get, the more I realize how much I appreciate being home with the kids and being home with Zooey,' he said.

Scott also added that their house had been custom-designed 'to solve every problem we have.'
Sofia Vergara and her son Manolo have been granted a temporary restraining order against a man the actress claims has been stalking them.

Sofia, 51, claims in legal documents obtained by TMZ that the man - named Gregory Brown - is a 'mentally unstable stalker' who has 'a delusional belief he personally knows her and has a relationship with her and her family', as well as her son Manolo Gonzalez Vergara, 32.

Vergara, who is in the midst of a divorce, alleges Brown's 'aggressive and harassing conduct' has made her frightened for her safety and has also provoked anxiety and emotional distress.

The Modern Family actress says Brown has been steadfast in his pursuit of her, even though he was allegedly arrested earlier this year for trespassing and vandalism at her residence.

Brown has allegedly attempted numerous times to reach her and Manolo, and Sofia claimed he gained unauthorized entry into her gated community by hiking in from the hills over the summer.

Sofia Vergara and her son Manolo have been granted a temporary restraining order against a man the actress claims has been stalking them and who allegedly has a criminal past; pictured 2020

Sofia claims she received a letter in the mail from Brown in November. In the letter, Brown allegedly told her he would 'be seeing and hearing her very soon, my love,' before ending the letter as 'Gangsta.'

The actress alleges that Brown has a criminal history consisting of arrests for violent offenses. His alleged criminal past has led her to be more concerned for her safety.

Sofia and her son have now been granted a temporary restraining order by a judge. As part of the requirements, Brown must remain at least 100 yards away from Sofia and Manolo and is not allowed to contact them.

Manolo is Sofia's son from her first marriage to Joe Gonzalez. Years after their divorce, she married True Blood actor Joe Manganiello.

The couple announced in July that they had separated and were divorcing after seven years of marriage.

Only two days after announcing their split, the actor filed for divorce and noted their date of separation as July 2, while citing the reason for the end of their marriage as 'irreconcilable differences'.

The former couple did not have children together.

Manolo is Sofia's son from her first marriage to Joe Gonzalez; pictured 2017

Sofia has recently split from husband Joe Manganiello after seven years of marriage; pictured 2020

The Modern Family star has been a judge on America's Got Talent since 2020.

Sofia had a short trip to celebrate Thanksgiving as she spent the holiday with her neighbor Anastasia Soare, 65.

She shared photos on Instagram of herself enjoying the holiday with Anastasia.

Anastasia is known as the 'Eyebrow Queen' and is the founder the Anastasia Beverly Hills beauty brand.

Sofia wore a dark brown dress with long sleeves and a short skirt for the gathering.

'Thanksgiving at the neighbor! thank u @anastasiasoare I luv u!,' Sofia wrote as a caption.
An Australian model has clapped back at two 'judgmental old ladies' who shot her a disapproving look when her daughter had a tantrum during a recent trip to Kmart.

Like any other toddler, Renae Ayris' little girl Harper became distressed when she was told by her grandmother to put her snacks away.

Ayris said she overheard the two women say 'all children were horrible these days' because they were always glued to iPads or iPhones.

She blasted them for their lack of compassion and understanding of the situation.

'How about don't judge? You couldn't see Harper, you literally know NOTHING about her,' she raged in a fiery Instagram post.

Australian model Renae Ayris has clapped back at two 'judgmental old ladies' who shot her a disapproving look when her daughter had a tantrum during a recent trip to Kmart

Ayris said she overheard the two women say "all children were horrible these days" because they were always glued to iPads or iPhones

'Calling "all kids these days horrible and disgusting" and how your kids never acted like kids do these days "because of phones".

'I mean, I'm glad you've found the solution. Yay to you.

'Do you think I or any other parent enjoys their kid having a tantrum in public!? NO, NO they don't, and it's mainly because of judgmental people like you.'

Aryis welcomed Harper Lee with her fitness trainer husband Andrew Papadopoulos in December 2021.

In an Instagram post made by Renae, Harper was seen lying down on a bed while her mother held her little feet.

'I love you and your little feet so much,' she captioned the adorable image.

Aryis welcomed Harper Lee with her fitness trainer husband Andrew Papadopoulos in December 2021

Renae announced Harper's arrival on Sunday, December 19, 2021 alongside an adorable image of her little pride and joy.

In the picture, Harper is seen sleeping peacefully, wrapped in a floral blanket and adorned with a matching baby bow. Beside her sits a plaque that reads, 'Hello World'.

The couple also detailed Harper's stats, writing she was born on Friday, December 17, and listed her birth weight as 3.28kg and length as 52cm.

'Our hearts are SO full,' they proudly wrote in unison.
A cashed-up influencer who was slammed for wasting important police time by filing an official report on her stolen $650 Prada sunglasses is still forging ahead with an investigation into the theft.

Sarah Stevenson, also known online as Sarah's Day, had her designer accessory stolen from the Cronulla Post Office earlier last month.

Stevenson was slammed online for complaining about her 'first world problem' and involving the cops who have more important crimes to investigate.

The mother-of-two, 30, has now posted CCTV footage of the alleged thief and given an update on the police investigation into her missing sunnies.

Speaking with her followers while doing her makeup, Stevenson explained the culprit had her back turned to the camera in the post office so police couldn't see the woman take the sunglasses at first.

Cashed-up Sydney influencer Sarah Stevenson, 30, who was slammed for wasting important police time by filing an official report on her stolen $650 Prada sunglasses is still forging ahead with an investigation into the theft

'Her back was positioned in a way you can't see her pick them up, but when she leaves they're gone, and you can see her put something in her bag,' Stevenson explained.

She then went on to share a picture of the woman Sutherland Shire Police Area Command posted to their Facebook page on November 9.

Police described the woman as 'female, 25-30 years old, fair complexion, slim build, blonde hair' before asking their social media followers to contact them if they have any information about her.

'Police believe the person in the attached images may be able to assist with an investigation into a theft that occurred at Cronulla Post Office about 11am on Tuesday 31st of October 2023,' the post said.

The mother-of-two, 30, has now posted CCTV footage of the alleged thief and given an update on the police investigation into her missing sunnies

Speaking with her followers while doing her makeup, Stevenson explained the culprit had her back turned to the camera in the post office, so police couldn't see the woman take the sunglasses at first

Stevenson said the cops 'are now accessing these different outdoor CCTV cameras' to see if they caught the woman taking the sunglasses out of her bag.

Despite the ongoing police investigation, it seems Stevenson has little hope of recovering her stolen property as she was recently forced to buy the expensive sunglasses again.

'I unfortunately had to repurchase, but luckily they were 30% off so I could justify it a little bit more,' she said as she sat in her car wearing the $650 glasses before a Pilates class.

She then went on to share a picture of the woman Sutherland Shire Police Area Command posted to their Facebook page on November 9

It comes after the online media personality was slammed for complaining about her 'first world problem' and wasting important police time when she first filed the report about the theft.

'Is she okay in the head? Like I get it but it's giving, "Kim there's people that are dying,"'' one person said, referencing an iconic Kardashian meme.

Another added: 'Is she ok?! Police have actual crimes to solve and this halfwit thinks this deserves their full attention! Have another rail and go away!'

Despite the negative criticism online, Sarah was devastated to have lost the accessory, explaining in a lengthy TikTok video that she just put them down for a few moments to tend to her disgruntled 20-month-old son Malakai.
Thomas Cocquerel has revealed what it was like moving to Hollywood to pursue his acting career at a young age.

The Aussie actor, 34, said he was 'commodified' and criticised for his looks and it was 'very confronting'.

'As a young guy, when I first moved to Hollywood, I was commodified, I was pushed into a box,' he told The Daily Telegraph, .

'I was told to work out, that I was too skinny, that I didn't look good enough and it is very confronting.'

He said it's difficult for an actor as 'you don't want to stand out and you don't want to be too different'.

Aussie actor Thomas Cocquerel has revealed what it was like moving to Hollywood to pursue his acting career

Thomas said he is hoping this will change for new young actors pursuing a career in Hollywood.

The actor made his TV debut on Aussie series Love Child in 2014 before appearing on drama series Anzac Girls.

He has also appeared in several films including Red Dog: True Blue, Table 19, 1 Mile to You and The Tribes of Palos Verdes.

In 2018, Thomas portrayed actor Errol Flynn in the biographical film In Like Flynn.

The Aussie actor, 34, told The Daily Telegraph, he was 'commodified' and criticised for his looks and it was 'very confronting'

He has also starred in drama Celeste, true crime film Billionaire Boys Club and was cast in CW series The 100 for its sixth season.

Thomas led the 2019 romantic comedy film The Divorce Party before being cast in Escape Room: Tournament of Champions.

He also appeared as lawyer Tom Raikes in the first season of The Gilded Age on HBO Max.

He is now set to star in his new project, Paramount+ television drama, Paper Dolls.
Extreme Weight Loss star Brandi Mallory died as result of 'complications of obesity,' according to medical officials in Georgia who conducted her autopsy.

The reality TV personality, who passed away at the age of 40 last month, was found dead in the parking lot of a Chipotle restaurant in Stone Mountain, Georgia on November 9.

In newly-released documents reviewed by TMZ, the Fulton County Medical Examiner said that 'complications of obesity was considered a significant condition contributing to the death.'

The Extreme Weight Loss star's death was deemed as natural, the outlet reported, noting that law enforcement found 'no sign of foul play' in their probe into Mallory's passing.

Mallory suffered from an enlarged heart, and blood tests indicated precursors to diabetes, according to medical officials.

Extreme Weight Loss star Brandi Mallory died at 40 last month as result of 'complications of obesity,' according to officials in Georgia who conducted her autopsy

The reality TV personality was found dead in a parking lot of a Chipotle in Stone Mountain, Georgia November 9.

Mallory had 'trace amounts of marijuana and alcohol' in her system when she died but they did not factor as reasons into her passing, the coroner said.

Mallory had not suffered any injuries as of late that contributed to her death, officials said.

Mallory last month was remembered a positive force in all of her loved ones' lives, as a friend of the reality TV personality spoke about how they were 'so impressed with her as a person.'

Her friend and fellow makeup artist, Eva Jane, told People on November 27 about how the Extreme Weight Loss star was 'full of life' and 'an eternal optimist.'

After her friends and family held a celebration of life for Mallory, Jane spoke about how the funeral was somber but also had levity.

Jane also added that Mallory's loved ones not only shed tears, but also shared personal stories about moments of happiness they shared with her and the joy she had spread.

'I was just so impressed with her as a person because she was so positive, just an eternal optimist,' Jane said about her late friend.

Jane also said Mallory had a an 'electric' and 'very big personality' which she will miss.

A friend of the reality TV personality, who passed away at the age of 40 earlier this month, spoke about how they were 'so impressed with her as a person'

Mallory's friend and a fellow makeup artist said the Extreme Weight Loss star was 'full of life' and 'an eternal optimist'

'I don't want to speak in cliches, like she lit up the room - but she did,' she continued. 'She didn't complain or find fault in anyone or anything.'

'She was full of life, always looking for a way to make the atmosphere and environment around her so much better, and to encourage everybody around her,' she said. 'She had a very big personality. She was electric.'

Jane also described Mallory as someone who was authentic in nature and always being herself without pretense.

'She truly was, "What you see is what you get." She was pure,' Jane said.

'With some people, it's all about PR and marketing designed to show someone in their best light, but she was genuinely herself,' she explained. 'When someone like Brandi passes, it really does make it harder to grasp and understand.

'You think, "Why would someone so amazing be called to go home?"'

The reality star died suddenly after picking up dinner at Chipotle November 9.

She was found in her car in the parking lot by a concerned business owner who called authorities after he witnessed what he believed was a woman asleep behind the wheel.

Mallory was described by a friend as someone who was authentic in nature and always being herself without pretense; seen with Extreme Weight Loss costar Kim Williams Maxile

On November 9, Mallory was found dead in the Chipotle parking lot in Stone Mountain, Georgia. According to police reports, there were no signs of foul play

He realized something was wrong when he saw the car again later on the same day.

According to police reports, there were no signs of foul play. There was no evidence her food at Chipotle had anything to do with her death.

She gained popularity online after losing 150 pounds on season four of ABC's Extreme Weight Loss.
The Crown's Diana actors Elizabeth Debicki and Emma Corrin shared a sweet moment on the red carpet at the finale celebration of the hit Netflix show on Tuesday.

Elizabeth, who stars as the late Princess of Wales in the final series, rubbed shoulders with her predecessor Emma, 27, who played Diana in the fourth season, at the event, held at the Royal Festival Hall.

The pair shared a hug before admiring each others outfits and posing for a photo together.

Elizabeth put on a dazzling display in a shimmering silver gown adorned with beaded detailing while Emma rocked an androgynous look.

The actor mixed a white blazer, shirt and bow tie with a sheer skirt and knee high black boots.

The Crown 's Diana actors Elizabeth Debicki and Emma Corrin shared a sweet moment on the red carpet at the finale celebration of the hit Netflix show on Tuesday

Elizabeth rubbed shoulders with her predecessor Emma, 27, held at the Royal Festival Hall

Elizabeth (left) stars as the late Princess of Wales in the final series, while Emma (right) played Diana in the fourth season

The pair showed there were no signs of rivalry as they shared a joke on the red carpet.

The event comes ahead of the December 14 release of the final ever episodes of The Crown.

The first part of the sixth and final series of The Crown aired on November 16 and followed the eight weeks in the lead up to the tragic death of Princess Diana.

Viewers were reduced to tears watching the harrowing scenes, and the fourth episode ended with the public's reaction to Princess Diana's death and her funeral.

The second part of the series will drop next week on December 14 and will follow on after Princess Diana's tragic death.

The second part will cover the meeting of Prince William and Kate Middleton in the early 2000s.

The part 2 trailer for series six of the show dropped last week.

It is 2 minutes 44 seconds in length and opens with Princes William and Harry in happier times, showing the two brothers - now thought to be estranged in real life - grinning together as they pose for a family photo.

Princess Diana pictured during the Presentation of the Colours to the guards at Buckingham Palace in May 1990

The pair showed there were no signs of rivalry as they shared a joke on the red carpet

The event comes ahead of the December 14 release of the final ever episodes of The Crown

The pair shared a hug before admiring each others outfits and posing for a photo together

Elizabeth put on a dazzling display in a shimmering silver gown adorned with beaded detailing

The actress looked incredible as she arrived at the glitzy event

Emma rocked an androgynous look. The actor mixed a white blazer, shirt and bow tie with a sheer skirt and knee high black boots

Emma accessorised with silver jewellery and sheer black gloves

The first trailer for the final instalment of The Crown shows a glimpse into William and Kate's romance

The late Queen Elizabeth II, played by Imelda Staunton, is seen in the trailer being offered public feedback by aides on the royals, including criticism the Windsor family 'lacked compassion'.

Tony Blair, prime minister in the years following Diana's death, is dubbed 'King Tony' as the portrayal of his perceived power during his first term is dramatised.

The series also depicts Prince William as overwhelmed as he gets out of the car to greet thousands of mourners gathered at Kensington Palace in the days after his mother was killed in a car crash in a Paris underpass in 1997.

Later, the show suggests friction between father and son, as Prince Charles is seen telling William: 'We don't do fathers and sons very well in this family'.
Dodi Fayed actor Khalid Abdalla sent a poignant ceasefire message amid the Israel-Hamas war on the red carpet at The Crown finale event on Tuesday night.

The activist, 42, attended the star-studded event at The Royal Festival Hall alongside his Diana co-star Elizabeth Debicki.

He looked smart in a white suit and on his hands were the words 'permanent ceasefire' while his palms read: 'return the hostages, end the occupation'.

Israel-Hamas war began after Hamas gunmen launched an brutal assault on Israel from the Gaza Strip on 7 October, killing 1,200 people and taking about 240 hostages.

Dodi had a similar message on his hands when he walked the red carpet at The Crown series six premiere in November.

Dodi Fayed actor Khalid Abdalla sent a poignant ceasefire message amid the Israel-Hamas war on the red carpet at The Crown finale event on Tuesday night

The activist, 42, attended the star-studded event at The Royal Festival Hall alongside his Diana co-star Elizabeth Debicki

Khalid joined the cast of Netflix's royal drama in season five as Dodi, the son of billionaire businessman Mohammed Al Fayed and Princess Diana's late boyfriend

He also appeared in the sixth and final season of The Crown, which covered the tragic death of Diana in 1997 while in a car crash with him

Khalid joined the cast of Netflix's royal drama in season five as Dodi, the son of billionaire businessman Mohammed Al Fayed and Princess Diana's late boyfriend.

He also appeared in the sixth and final season of The Crown, which covered the tragic death of Diana in 1997 while in a car crash with him.

The event came ahead of the December 14 release of the final ever episodes of The Crown.

The first part of the sixth and final series aired on November 16 and followed the eight weeks in the lead up to the tragic death of Diana.

Viewers were reduced to tears watching the harrowing scenes, and the fourth episode ended with the public's reaction to Princess Diana's death and her funeral.

Ahead of the final set of The Crown's episodes arriving on Netflix, the cast and a whole host of other stars came together at a lavish event celebrating the series' end.

Meg Bellamy cut a sophisticated figure as she stepped out at the event alongside Emma Corrin and Elizabeth on Tuesday.

The actress, 21, who will star as Kate Middleton in the upcoming episodes of the Netflix series, stunned as she stepped out at The Royal Festival Hall.

Elizabeth Debicki, Khalid Abdalla and Emma Corrin are pictured together at The Crown event in London

He looked smart in a white suit and on his hands were the words 'permanent ceasefire' while his palms read: 'return the hostages, end the occupation'

The event came ahead of the December 14 release of the final ever episodes of The Crown on Netflix

Dodi had a similar message on his hands when he walked the red carpet at The Crown series six premiere in November

The entire cast of The Crown posed for a group shot togteher at the glitzy event on Tuesday night

Israel-Hamas war began after Hamas gunmen launched an brutal assault on Israel from the Gaza Strip on 7 October, killing 1,200 people and taking about 240 hostages

The first part of the sixth and final series aired on November 16 and followed the eight weeks in the lead up to the tragic death of Diana

Emma, 27 - who portrayed Princess Diana in the fourth series of the historical drama - also showed off their edgy sense of style as they stormed the red carpet.

Elizabeth, who took over the role of Princess Diana from Emma, also stepped out at the event.

Meg was seen posing on the red carpet alongside her co-star Ed McVey, who will star as a young Prince William as his early romance with Kate at St Andrews University is recreated on screen.

Elizabeth has received much praise for her performance as the late Princess Diana, with commentators and royal watchers calling her talent 'unquestionable'.
Molly-Mae Hague has sweetly thanked her fiance Tommy Fury for looking after her and their baby Bambi while they are both unwell.

The Love Island star took to her Instagram Stories on Tuesday to gush over her partner Tommy, both 24, as she batted off rumours of trouble in their relationship.

She shared a snap of her dinner and a black and white picture of Tommy cradling their daughter Bambi, 11 months, in his arms as she detailed their illness woes.

Molly-Mae revealed that Tommy had been helping to try and get her 'on the mend' after she and Bambi have been 'struck down with flu'.

Alongside the snap of Tommy and Bambi, she said: 'Me and the girly been struck down with flu. She couldn't even make it into bed tonight before she crashed out.'

Molly-Mae Hague has sweetly thanked her fiance Tommy Fury for looking after her and their baby Bambi while they are both unwell

The Love Island star took to her Instagram Stories on Tuesday to gush over her partner Tommy, both 24, as she batted off rumours of trouble in their relationship

Tommy recently returned to the UK after he was seen partying during a trip to Abu Dhabi and Molly-Mae was seen without her engagement ring on while he was away.

The reality TV star has since put her 600,000 engagement ring back on after being pictured on several occasions without it.

Tommy's trip to the UAE capital sparked rumours of trouble in their relationship after videos emerged of the boxer on nights out - including with Chris Brown.

It was claimed Molly-Mae was 'mortified' by her fiance's behaviour and told him to 'ditch his partying pals', but she has now put her ring back on and the pair appear to be on good terms.

Molly-Mae reportedly told her husband-to-be that he needs to change his ways, with a source saying she 'has made no secret of the fact she doesn't like it when Tommy parties too hard'.

A source told The Sun: 'Molly has made no secret of the fact she doesn't like it when Tommy parties too hard.

'This weekend has ended up being a real embarrassment to her. She was mortified when she kept getting tagged in videos while she was just trying to enjoy a festive weekend with Bambi.'

The insider concluded: 'She has told Tommy it really has to stop now he's a dad and has told him to ditch some of his pals, who she thinks are a bad influence.'

The reality TV star shared a snap of her dinner as she stayed in bed and detailed her illness woes in a caption

It comes after Tommy jetted to Abu Dhabi and sparked rumours of trouble in their relationship after videos emerged of the boxer on nights out - including with Chris Brown

Molly-Mae has put her engagement ring back on after being pictured on several occasions without it while Tommy was away, including during a festive day out with Bambi, 11 months

Last week, the influencer appeared to confirm the pair had put the drama behind them, after she was pictured sporting her ring at The House of CB Christmas party in London.

The boxer's behaviour raised eyebrows among fans after he was spotted partying with girls and unlikely pal Chris in Abu Dhabi.

While Tommy enjoyed a solo holiday, Molly-Mae remained in Manchester with their young daughter, where she was first seen without her engagement ring.

Molly-Mae posted a picture without her engagement ring to her Instagram Stories while enjoying a festive day with her daughter Bambi.
Angelina Jolie will reprise the role of her villainous character in Disney's Maleficent 3.

The actress, 48, confirmed the news in a new profile with WSJ. Magazine, though she did not give any other details.

It comes four years after the sequel, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, was released. It's not clear who will star alongside her at the moment.

Previous Maleficent movies have starred Elle Fanning as Aurora, Maleficent's step-daughter, as well as Michelle Pfeiffer, Harris Dickinson, Ed Skrein, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Juno Temple, and more.

In that same interview Jolie also hinted that she wants to quit acting for good - while revealing that she plans to leave 'unhealthy' Los Angeles and 'spend more time' in Cambodia.

Angelina Jolie will reprise her villainous character in Disney's Maleficent 3. The actress, 48, confirmed the news in a new profile with WSJ. Magazine; seen in 2019

It comes four years after the sequel, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, was released. It's not clear who will star alongside her at the moment; seen in a 2014 still

Maleficent is the evil fairy in the classic 1959 animation Sleeping Beauty, with Angelina playing her in a 2014 live-action film.

Just five years on, Jolie played her again in Mistress Of Evil, still wearing black horns, fighting fairies and sorting out her conflicted maternal feelings towards sweet Princess Aurora (Fanning).

The original 2014 film grossed a whopping $758 million worldwide, and brought another successful addition to Disney's series of dark fairy tales. The follow-up grossed $491.7 million.

Being the entertainer that she is, when Jolie first landed the role in 2014, she used her scary costume to prank her kids.

'I actually pranked my kids when I first did Maleficent and I scared one of my kids! And Ill never do that again.'

'I won't say which kid it was but, I thought, when I had first put it on and they had never seen it, and I thought it would be fun to kind of, you know. But when youre little, you don't realize what mom means, to a kid,' she shared in 2019.

'I think that's why Maleficent's so scary, is because she's a woman,' she continued. 'So it's almost like a mom. Mom means so much and when mom transforms into something thats like a demon, it had a really bad effect and I had to kind of peel it off and take everything off in front of my kids to say, "It's me! Its me! It's OK."'

Though she confirmed the upcoming role, Angelina hinted she's ready to say goodbye to Hollywood in her new interview, where she discussed leaving the City of Angels for Cambodia, after 'losing the ability to travel freely' amid her bitter divorce battle with Brad Pitt.

Maleficent is the evil fairy in the classic 1959 animation Sleeping Beauty, with Angelina playing her in a 2014 live-action film

Just five years on, Jolie played her again in Mistress Of Evil, still wearing black horns, fighting fairies and sorting out her conflicted maternal feelings towards sweet Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning)

The original 2014 film grossed a whopping $758 million worldwide, and brought another successful addition to Disney's series of dark fairy tales. The follow-up grossed $491.7 million

The actress spoke out about her dislike of Hollywood in WSJ. Magazine's new December/January issue, explaining that she believes it is a 'shallow' place, and admitting that she would likely never have become an actress if she was entering the industry today.

She explained that she wants to move away as soon as she can to instead live in her home in Asia - but not until her ongoing legal battle with her ex finds a resolution.

The pair started dating in 2005 and married in 2014, but split two years later, in 2016 - and since then, they have been embroiled in a lengthy, seven-year divorce proceeding over the custody of their six kids.

Angelina told WSJ. Magazine that the court battle has lead to her 'losing the ability to live and travel freely.'

'Its part of what happened after my divorce - I lost the ability to live and travel as freely,' she said. 'I will move when I can.'

'I grew up in quite a shallow place. Of all the places in the world, Hollywood is not a healthy place. So you seek authenticity.'

Angelina - whose parents, Jon Voight and Marcheline Bertrand, were both actors themselves - added that because 'she grew up around' Hollywood, she was 'never very impressed' with it.

'I never bought into it as significant or important,' she told the publication.

She admitted that if she were to start all over today, she likely wouldn't choose acting as her profession, because of the 'expectation' to share intimate details about her personal life that comes with being a famous person.

In her latest interview Jolie also hinted that she wants to quit acting for good - while revealing that she plans to leave 'unhealthy' LA and 'spend more time' in Cambodia; seen in 2021

She added, 'When I was starting out, it wasnt as much of an expectation to be as public, to share so much.'

She also joked that she 'doesn't really have a social life' anymore and that all of her 'closest friends are refugees.'

The movie star has worked with the the UN Refugee Agency for more than two decades, visiting camps in Cambodia, Tanzania, Sierra Leone, and Pakistan over the years.

Angelina has been embroiled in arguably one of the most public breakups of all time, with the entire world watching on as she and ex Brad, 59, have battled it out in court over the last seven years.

She briefly spoke out about the dissolvement of her marriage of WSJ, while opening up about why she decided to step back from the spotlight in recent years.

'We had to heal. There are things we needed to heal from,' she explained, when the outlet pointed out that she's only appeared in five movies over the course of her seven-year legal fight.

If Angelina does take a break from acting, that doesn't mean she will stop working altogether, with the on-screen star sharing: 'I can't stop. I always think there's a fight coming.'

Angelina and Brad first started dating in 2005, after meeting on set of the movie Mr. and Mrs. Smith.

The actress, 48, said that she 'lost the ability to travel freely' due to her bitter divorce battle with Brad Pitt (seen in 2012)

They welcomed three children - Shiloh and twins Vivienne and Knox. They also adopted Zahara and Pax, and Brad adopted the son Angelina had adopted before they got together, Maddox; (L-R) Maddox, Vivienne, Angelina, Zahara, Shiloh and Knox seen in 2021

They tied the knot in August 2014 during a secret ceremony in the South of France, and welcomed three children together during their romance - Shiloh, now 17, in 2006, and twins Vivienne and Knox, now 15, in 2008.

They also adopted two more, Zahara, now 18, and Pax, now 20, and Brad legally adopted the son that Angelina had adopted before they got together, Maddox, now 22.

But in 2016, it came to an explosive end after the pair got into an alleged physical altercation while on a private flight with their six kids.

In May 2021, after years of duking it out in court, Brad and Angelina were officially granted joint custody of their six kids - but one month later, the judge's decision was thrown out.

Since they split, the two stars have also been fighting in court over the winery that they once owned together.
Julia Roberts flashed her trademark smile on Tuesday night as she stepped out for dinner in New York City after another hectic press day.

The actress, 56, looked phenomenal in a black velour jumpsuit with a belt that cinched her already tiny waist.

She strolled the sidewalk in black leather Gucci loafers that can cost over $1,000.

The Oscar winner's lustrous auburn hair tumbled down her back in voluminous waves while her wispy fringe blew around in the breeze.

She sported natural makeup that included a glossy nude pink lip and a hint of warm brown eyeshadow.

Julia Roberts flashed her trademark smile on Tuesday night as she stepped out for dinner in New York City after another hectic press day

Instead of contact lenses, Roberts wore her stylish brown-frame eyeglasses.

She looked to be in a jovial mood as she smiled in the direction of fans and photographers outside her hotel.

She was surrounded by a team of stone-faced bodyguards that escorted her to a nearby SUV.

Roberts is in the Big Apple promoting her latest film Leave the World Behind.

The Netflix original is an apocalyptic thriller about class and race relations in the midst of blackout caused by a cyberattack.

It also stars Ethan Hawke, who plays husband to Roberts' character, and two-time Oscar winner Mahershala Ali.

The premiere was held Monday and Roberts wowed the crowd as she stepped onto the red carpet in a sheeny black minidress.

It was styled with an oversized cream coat, semi-sheer tights and sexy black patent leather heels.

As for jewelry, the Pretty Woman star wrapped a long, pearl necklace around her neck and opted for stud earrings.

The Oscar winner's lustrous auburn hair tumbled down her back in voluminous waves while her wispy fringe blew around in the breeze

The actress, 56, looked phenomenal in a black velour jumpsuit with a belt that cinched her already tiny waist

She held onto Hawke's arm as they braved the flashbulbs together.

As part of the film's promotional push, Roberts made a number of morning show appearances on Monday in New York City.

During her chat with Hoda Kotb on The Today Show, she shared a rare comment about her family life with husband Danny Moder.

'Well, it all starts with Danny Moder, you know?' she gushed to Hoda. 'Hes just really our anchor and our person. And in the most beautiful way, the captain of our ship, you know, truly.'

The gorgeous star -- who shares three children with Danny -- then joked that she doesn't necessarily give her partner all the credit for their amazing home life.

'And its not, like, giving it all away to him,' she added. 'Its just that for me, understanding how deeply felt life could be really started with him.'

Julia and Danny met on the set of The Mexican in 2000, where she was acting alongside Brad Pitt, and he was working as a cameraman.

At the time, Julia was dating Benjamin Bratt, while Danny was married to makeup artist Vera Steimberg.

Roberts is in the Big Apple promoting her latest film Leave the World Behind and the premiere was held Monday in New York City; seen with co-star Ethan Hawke

Locking arms with Hawke, Roberts stepped onto the red carpet in a sheeny black minidress

'I could see how wonderful he was, but we were both in relationships at the time, so we were just friends,' Julia revealed in 2003 during an interview with Oprah Winfrey.

The pair eventually split from their respective partners before romance blossomed.

'He sorted his whole thing out, separate and apart from me,' she explained to Oprah. 'And I sorted my life out, separate and apart from him. I think thats the only reason we were able to ultimately fall in love with each other and be together.'

They tied the knot in 2002 in a secret ceremony at Roberts ranch near Taos, New Mexico.

The couple went on to welcome twins Hazel and Phinnaeus, now 19, in 2004, followed by son Henry, now 16, three years later.

Roberts revealed to Hoda how she is parenting two kids in college, and one who will soon be off to college.

'I parent them the same way out of the house that I parented them in the house,' she said. '"Are you getting enough sleep? And you sound like youre sick. And are you drinking tea? And text me when you get home."'

During her chat with Hoda Kotb on The Today Show, she shared a rare comment about her family life with husband Danny Moder

The couple welcomed twins Hazel and Phinnaeus, now 19, in 2004, followed by son Henry, now 16, three years later

Julia also explained how they keep in touch while they are away from home.

'We all were on a FaceTime the other day together, all of us. And it was, like, this gift that we had, these four minutes of us all looking at each other. We were all so happy to be together in that way,' she said.

Roberts endured another hectic press day on Tuesday as she was captured arriving to the set of Andy Cohen's talk show Watch What Happens Live on Bravo.
Allison Williams attended the Fellow Travelers SAG Nominating Committee screening, which took place at The Roxy in New York City on Tuesday night.

The 35-year-old actress showed off her toned arms while wearing a form-revealing outfit during the promotional event for the ongoing miniseries.

The performer, who shared a kiss with her fiance Alexander Drymon during the Academy Award ceremony, was joined by several of her castmates during the event.

Williams donned a sleeveless patterned dress by Michael Kors Collection and a pair of black stockings as she posed for a set of photos.

The M3GAN star also wore a pair of leather high-heeled shoes and accessorized with several pieces of jewelry.

Allison Williams attended the Fellow Travelers SAG Nominating Committee screening, which took place at The Roxy in New York City on Tuesday night

The 35-year-old actress showed off her toned arms while wearing a form-revealing outfit by Michael Kors Collection during the promotional event for the ongoing miniseries

The performer, who shared a kiss with her fiance Alexander Drymon during the Academy Award ceremony, was joined by several of her castmates during the event

The actress' gorgeous brunette hair was tied back into a tight bun for the length of the event.

Matt Bomer looked sharp while wearing a denim button-up shirt underneath a navy blue overcoat.

The actor also wore a pair of slim-fitting pants and completed his look with leather shoes.

Jelani Alladin rocked a bright white turtleneck sweater underneath a zip-up leather jacket.

The performer also wore a pair of pants that matched the tone of his outerwear, and he stood out while wearing white boots.

Noah J. Ricketts opted for an all-black outfit that included a button-up shirt and an overcoat.

Jonathan Bailey donned a bright red jersey and a white t-shirt, both of which were contrasted with dark pants and leather shoes.

Development on Fellow Travelers was revealed to the public in 2021, and the series was greenlit the following year.

Matt Bomer looked sharp while wearing a denim button-up shirt underneath a navy blue overcoat. Jelani Alladin rocked a bright white turtleneck sweater underneath a zip-up leather jacket

Noah J. Ricketts opted for an all-black outfit that included a button-up shirt and an overcoat. Jonathan Bailey donned a bright red jersey and a white t-shirt, both of which were contrasted with dark pants and leather shoes

The performers were also joined by the show's creator, Ron Nyswaner, at the promotional event

Development on Fellow Travelers was revealed to the public in 2021, and the series was greenlit the following year

The show is based on Thomas Mallon's novel of the same name, which was published in 2007

The series is centered on a relationship between two men that stretches from the 1950s until the 1980

The program's eighth and final episode is scheduled to air on December 17

The series is centered on a relationship between two men that stretches from the 1950s until the 1980s.

In addition to Williams, the series also stars performers such as Linus Roache, Chris Bauer and Will Brill.

Fellow Travelers' premiere episode made its debut on Showtime on October 29.

The program's eighth and final episode is scheduled to air on December 17.
Legendary British performer Morrissey stopped a concert in Melbourne on Monday to complain to fans about his current Australian tour.

The 64-year-old pop star talked bitterly from the stage, telling fans of how disappointed he was after having to cancel a sold out gig in Perth, reports the Herald Sun.

At one point during the between song rant, Morrissey, who is known for his prickly public image, appeared to slam the Perth Concert Hall for the way they advertised the cancelled gig on their website.

The venue, which uses a consumer guide with each performer, including musical style, described Morrissey's show as 'nostalgia', a label that appeared to disappoint the showbiz veteran.

'Blah, blah blah; pop, blah blah blah; rock ... Morrissey, nostalgia,' he said, during the show, appearing to quote the Perth Concert Hall's web page.

Morrissey stopped a concert in Melbourne on Monday to complain to fans about his current Australian tour. Pictured: Morrissey on the red carpet in London in May

The 64-year-old pop star talked bitterly from the stage, telling fans of how disappointed he was after having to cancel a sold out gig in Perth, reports the Herald Sun. Pictured performing live in London in 2020

Morrissey added: 'Every possible discouragement, every possible discouragement.'

Rising to fame as the frontman for '80s rockers The Smiths, the musician is currently on his '40 Years of Morrissey' tour.

Morrissey's promoters Live Nation Australia announced the cancellation of the Perth gig, on the day of the gig, telling ticket holders the show would not go ahead due to 'unforeseen logistical reasons'.

Morrissey has been a controversial figure throughout his long career, and has spoken out on a wide range of issues including animal rights, veganism, royalty and politics.

At one point during the between song rant, Morrissey, who is known for his prickly public image, appeared to slam the Perth Concert Hall. Pictured: A poster for Morrissey's tour

In 2020 he was slammed for appearing on an episode of The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon wearing a For Britain badge - a far right political party which even Nigel Farage has criticised as being made up of 'Nazis and racists'.

On Coronation Day, on his official website, Morrissey Central, he posted a picture of King Charles wearing a crown and a plaster over his mouth and a caption alongside read: 'What is fact is not fact, and what is true is not true.'

In the 1980s with The Smiths, Morrissey had string of hits including The Boy With The Thorn in His Side, Everyday is Like Sunday and Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now.

He has since gone solo and has carved a successful career and has an Ivor Novello award for Outstanding Contribution to British music.
Paris Hilton revealed that sad reason that she opted to use a surrogate to welcome her baby son Phoenix and daughter London in a new interview published Tuesday.

While speaking with Romper, the 42-year-old reality TV star and heiress shared that she felt she was unable to carry children herself due to symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to alleged abuse she suffered while enrolled at Provo Canyon boarding school in Utah as a teenager.

Hilton has previously claimed that she was sexually assaulted and suffered physical and mental abuse while forced to attend the school for 11 months beginning when she was 17.

Because of the lingering trauma from her experiences, Hilton said she had developed a devastating fear of childbirth that she compared to an intense fear of dying.

She previously spoke about her experiences at the school beginning in 2020, the same year that the facility was bought by United Health Care.

Paris Hilton, 42, told Romper on Tuesday that she opted for surrogacy for her baby son Phoenix and new daughter London because of PTSD from her stint at a Utah boarding school as a teen; seen November 18 in Las Vegas

Hilton has said she was sexually assaulted and physically and emotionally abused at the school. She said she now has a fear of medical settings akin to a fear of dying, which could making giving birth to a child dangerous

When asked why she opted to use a surrogate rather than trying to carry children naturally, Paris didn't shy away from the difficult question.

'I just have so much PTSD from what I went through as a teenager,' she admitted.

Because of her ongoing PTSD symptoms, she said she had developed an intense fear of medical settings.

'If Im in a doctors office, I get a shot, anything, I will literally have a panic attack and I cant breathe,' she shared. 'I just knew that would not be healthy for me or the baby, growing inside of someone who has such high anxiety.'

She added that her past experiences felt as if they were 'stealing my happiness.'

After she was freed from the treatment facility, Hilton didn't turn to mental health professional to help her move on from the trauma, as they seemed to similar to the professionals who had abused her trust at Provo Canyon.

'Going out at night would drown out my nightmares,' she said. 'I know its weird to say I felt safe in the nightlife, but I did.'

It wasn't until she saw a therapist on camera for her reality show that she was diagnosed with PTSD. The realization helped to end the devastating flashback she suffered; seen November 18

With the newfound publicity from her stint on her popular reality show The Simple Life, Paris relished the chance to put on a new public persona and project a 'perfect Barbie-doll life' to hide her inner feelings and fears.

'I was wearing this mask, like a survival technique,' she said of her 'dumb-blond act.'

But she opted to finally see a therapist (even if on camera) while filming the second season of her reality series Paris In Love, which premiered on November 30.

During one of those filmed sessions, the therapist determined that the traumatic flashbacks that she experienced were a symptom of PTSD from her time at the school.

'Ever since I opened up and let that out, it no longer happens,' Hilton now says. 'It frees you.'

She also got back a measure of control when she helped spearhead a bipartisan bill in congress to better regulate abusive teen treatment centers. Back in 2021, the Utah legislature passed a bill to more tightly regulate centers like the Provo Canyon school after she aggressively lobbied the body.

Paris sister Nicky Hilton added: 'She got to the point where she was like, "I dont want to have these secrets. People have been writing things about me, lots of them untrue, for many, many years. Im going to take my narrative into my own hands."'

The new reality show has also helped Paris to heal her relationship with her parents Rick and Kathy Hilton, and she no longer holds it against them for sending her to the boarding school.

'I cant imagine if I moved to New York City and all of a sudden London is sneaking out every night and Im just going into her room and shes gone. I would be terrified,' she admitted. ;I can totally understand just how scared she was, even though I wasnt a bad kid. All I did was sneak out, go to clubs, and get bad grades.'

However, she added that some of her school troubles were likely due to undiagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Paris also admitted that her incredibly busy schedule would have made it difficult to juggle everything while also being pregnant

She shares her two babies with her husband Carter Reum

Paris doesn't plan to be as strict with London and Phoenix as her parents were with her, as she hopes that will leave the two with less to rebel against in the first place.

'Its really important to have your kids feel comfortable to tell you anything and feel like theyre not going to get in trouble,' she said.

But she admitted her good intentions might not always work out.

'Im probably going to be really strict, too, because its a scary world out there, especially today,' she clarified. 'Im just terrified when they become teenagers.'

Although her fears and traumas were the main reason Paris didn't think she could carry her own children, she also admitted that her busy schedule and the business and ventures that she has to constantly juggle would have made it difficult to also manage a pregnancy or two on top of everything else.

Despite being incredibly wealthy, Paris didn't feel like she could take time off to craft a maternity leave once her children were born.

'I always really equated success to freedom,' she admitted, and she said a lack of confidence due to few experiences with young children earlier in life left her worrying about her skills as a mother.

'It was all so new to me, having this little delicate angel,' she said.

Last year, Paris spoke to the New York Times about her alleged abuse at the Provo Canyon School, which she had tried to 'black out' over the subsequent years.

She said: 'Very late at night  this would be around three or four in the morning  they would take myself and other girls into this room, and they would perform medical exams.

'This wasn't even with a doctor. It was with a couple different staff members, where they would have us lay on the table and put their fingers inside of us. And I don't know what they were doing, but it was definitely not a doctor and it was really scary

'It was really scary, and its something that I really had blocked out for many years. But its coming back all the time now, and I think about it. And now, looking back as an adult, that was definitely sexual abuse.'

Devastating: Hilton previously detailed the alleged sexual abuse she endured while attending a Utah boarding school for troubled teens in the 1990s to the New York Times

The reality star said her childhood was 'stolen' by the alleged abuse at Provo Canyon School where she spent 11 months aged 17 (pictured aged 18)

Paris further detailed the alleged incidents on Twitter, writing: 'Sleep-deprived & heavily medicated, I didn't understand what was happening.

'I was forced to lie on a padded table, spread my legs & submit to cervical exams. I cried while they held me down & said,"No!" They just said, "Shut up. Be quiet. Stop struggling or you'll go to Obs."'

'It's important to open up about these painful moments so I can heal & help put an end to this abuse.

'This was a recurring experience not only for me but for other #survivors. I was violated & I am crying as I type this because no one, especially a child, should be sexually abused. My childhood was stolen from me & it kills me this is still happening to other innocent children.'

She tweeted Universal Health Services, who purchased Provo Canyon School in 2000, the year after her alleged abuse, urging them to shut down the center.

She wrote: 'Stop prioritizing profit over people @UHS_Inc. I demand you take immediate action starting by shutting down Provo Canyon School by April 1st, 2023.

'END CHILD ABUSE AT UHS or retweet if you agree. #ShutDownPCS #UHSTakeAction #EndChildAbuse.'

Paris appeared alongside other young people who had been sent to similar centers as teenagers, in a series titled: 'Can You Punish A Child's Mental Health Problems Away?'

The teen treatment center, where a 12-month stay costs up to $300,000, has faced previous accusations of beating, drugging and sexually abusing its clients.

The socialite first slammed the institution in her 2020 documentary This Is Paris and succeeded in pushing for new, tighter regulation on schools for troubled teens.

Testifying to Utah lawmakers in February 2021, the hotel heiress said she was 'verbally, mentally and physically abused on a daily basis' at Provo Canyon.

'I was cut off from the outside world and stripped of all of my human rights. I was not allowed to be myself, hold my own opinions or even speak. Without a diagnosis I was forced to consume medication that made me feel numb and exhausted. I didn't breathe fresh air or see the sunlight for 11 months,' she said.

'Children were restrained, hit, thrown into walls, strangled and sexually abused regularly at Provo I could not report this because all communication with my family was monitored and censored.

'That was the worst of the worst There's no getting out of there. You're sitting on a chair and staring at a wall all day long, getting yelled at or getting hit.'

Paris has campaigned for the school's closure since 2020. In 2021, the Utah legislature passed a law to regulate facilities like Provo Canyon

The socialite slammed the institution in her 2020 documentary This Is Paris and succeeded in pushing for new, tighter regulation on schools for troubled teens.

The Times claimed Universal Health Services still faces numerous lawsuits, with one suit  in which 49 plaintiffs are named  more than two dozen people have claimed to have been sexually abused by a former medical director.

Paris has campaigned for the school's closure since going public with her allegations.

In August 2021, Universal Health Services was sued over the alleged 'torture' and 'sexual abuse' of another student.
While fans wait for the second half of Yellowstone's final season to debut next year, some legal drama has started between the show's creator and one of his stars.

Bosque Ranch, a wide-ranging business empire founded by Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan, has filed a lawsuit against Free Rein, Yellowstone star Cole Hauser's coffee company.

The trademark infringement lawsuit filed on November 21 in the Northern District of Texas alleges Free Rein of 'unfair competition and false advertising', according to San Angelo Live.

Bosque Ranch, which also has a coffee range, claims that Free Rein uses 'a brand mark strikingly similar to Bosque Ranch's registered trademark, potentially misleading consumers.'

Bosque Ranch's brand mark infuses the letters B and R like a cattle brand, while Free Rein also infuses the letters F and R.

This latest drama between Yellowstone mastermind and one of his stars comes after Sheridan's much-publicized feud with Kevin Costner, who plays Dutton family patriarch John Dutton.

The nub of their dispute was reported to be Costner's desire to cut down his workload for the fifth - and final - season. Sheridan, for his part, said he was disappointed by Costner's decision to cut back his work on the show but insisted the pair were on good terms but insiders also pointed to Sheridan's huge ego after his major film and TV successes.

Yellowstone star Cole Hauser's Free Rein coffee brand merges the letters F and R like a cattle brand (seen above on Hauser). His Yellowstone creator, showrunner and co-star Taylor Sheridan's Bosque Ranch's brand mark infuses the letters B and R

Sheridan's wide-ranging business empire Bosque Ranch also has a range of coffee (packaging seen above). The company claims that Free Rein uses, 'a brand mark strikingly similar to Bosque Ranch's registered trademark, potentially misleading consumers'

Creator: While fans wait for the second half of Yellowstone's final season to debut next year, some legal drama has started between the show's creator Taylor Sheridan (left) and one of his stars, Cole Hauser (right)

The lawsuit alleges that Bosque Ranch has been using the intertwined B/R brand mark since 2004, and secured federal registrations in 2020.

Bosque Ranch launched its Craft Coffee brand in June. Hauser turned the brand Longhorn Coffee, based in San Angelo, Texas into Free Rein in August.

The company launched its first coffee brands with the F/R logo in October. Bosque claims Free Rein did so without their authorization.

The lawsuit alleges the two similar brand marks will cause 'consumer confusion' since both Sheridan and Hauser are connected to Yellowstone and both actively promote their brands.

Bosque Ranch is seeking 'permanent injunctive relief, damages, and profits from the defendants under both the Lanham Act and Texas law for the alleged infringement.'

Bosque Ranch launched its Craft Coffee brand in June. Hauser turned the brand Longhorn Coffee, based in San Angelo, Texas into Free Rein in August. The company launched its first coffee brands with the F/R logo in October. Bosque claims Free Rein did so without their authorization

Hauser plays Rip Wheeler on Paramount Network's Yellowstone, who has been a fixture on the show since it debuted in 2018.

Rip Wheeler is a ranch hand on the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch, run by Kevin Costner's character John Dutton.

He's also married to Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly), John and the late Evelyn Dutton's (Gretchen Mol) only daughter on the show.

The lawsuit news comes just over a month after Paramount confirmed the show's final episodes will debut in November 2024.

This comes just months after it was reported that the 68-year-old leading man would be exiting the series in the first half of season 5.

The studio did also soften the blow to fans of Yellowstone, which has seen its popularity soar after episodes started airing on CBS. The network announced two spin-off series, one entitled 1944 and the other is a contemporary series, which is currently titled 2024.
Whitney Rose told Heather Gay to 'shut the f*** up' during an argument in Bermuda on Tuesday's episode of the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City on Bravo.

'Heather shut the f*** up,' Whitney, 37, said.

'Oh you want me to shut the f*** up?' Heather, 49, said.

'Shut the f*** up,' Whitney said.

Heather said she was angry. Whitney told Lisa Barlow, 48, that Heather would be so triggered every time she sat down with her to talk about her journey with the Mormon Church. Whitney said she was also upset that Lisa didn't comfort her after her friend died.

Whitney Rose told Heather Gay to 'shut the f*** up' during an argument in Bermuda on Tuesday's episode of the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City on Bravo

'Lisa, I was hurt that you didn't respond to me,' Whitney said. 'Honestly, after last year, I'm used to you being the one that comforts me.'

Heather asked when she became such close friends with Lisa. Whitney told her that she had no idea what her friendship with Lisa was about.

'If we were to tell you, you'd all be triggered and try to ruin it,' Whitney said.

'That's what I'm f***ing talking about,' Heather said. 'That is so f****ing low!'

'You guys are so jealous of the fact that Lisa and I are friends,' Whitney said.

'This is crazy,' Heather said.

Lisa said she felt that Whitney was taking out her grief on her and that she had to walk on eggshells around her.

'You treated me s****y at Meredith's event,' Lisa said.

'Oh you want me to shut the f*** up?' Heather, 49, said

'Lisa, I was hurt that you didn't respond to me,' Whitney said. 'Honestly, after last year, I'm used to you being the one that comforts me'

Lisa Barlow said she felt that Whitney was taking out her grief on her and that she had to walk on eggshells around her

Lisa pointed out she also learned from Heather that Whitney called her self absorbed.

'She's spinning this,' Whitney said of Heather getting involved.

'I'm not spinning this, that's what you said word for word, that you don't understand how self-absorbed you are,' Heather said.

Whitney told Heather she was trying to get Lisa mad at her.

Whitney said she just wanted her to be more self aware.

'Self aware I was f***ing dancing on eggshells around you,' Lisa said.

Whitney and Lisa kept arguing and Meredith Marks, 51, toasted with Angie Katsanevas, 48, that at least it wasn't them.

Whitney and Lisa kept arguing and Meredith Marks, 51, toasted with Angie Katsanevas, 48, that at least it wasn't them

'Cheers to that,' Angie said.

It started to rain.

'You guys we literally brought the bad weather,' Monica said.

The episode titled Bermuda Views and Bathtub Blues opened with the women going on their first International trip together.

After the flight, they took a van to the house and Meredith Marks announced she wasn't feeling well. A butler was waiting with a tray of run cocktails and they all quickly claimed their rooms in the house. Meredith was not happy that she got a room without a bathtub.

Lisa told Heather she was still upset that Whitney hadn't spoken to her after she blew up at her at Meredith's event. Whitney also told Angie that she sent Lisa a text after the event but that she never responded.

Heather then told Lisa that Whitney was boasting about helping Lisa not be so self centered.

'She said she was proud of you,' Heather said.

After the flight, they took a van to the house and Meredith Marks announced she wasn't feeling well

'For what?' Lisa said.

'She's like helping you be intuitive and healing,' Heather said.

'No,' Lisa said.

'You are becoming a better person because of your friendship,' Heather said.

'I'm literally not having Tony Robbins conversations with Whitney so that's shocking to me,' Lisa said. 'You know what makes me feel like a better person: God and my husband and my kids. Like, that's it.'

Monica Garcia, 38, checked on Meredith who was in bed in her room. Meredith said her feelings were hurt with how the room situation was handled.

'You all see I'm not feeling well at all,' Meredith said.

'You can't give me a decent room with a bathtub when you know how I feel like I'm dying right now?' Meredith said in a confessional.

'You can't give me a decent room with a bathtub when you know how I feel like I'm dying right now?' Meredith said in a confessional

Monica told Heather and Lisa that Meredith said after they way the room situation was handled it made her realize how selfish everyone in the group was.

'I'm not selfish,' Lisa said.

'She's visibly not feeling well, and all she wanted was a room with a bathtub,' Monica said.

Monica said in a confessional that she was concerned about Meredith but not enough to give up her room.

'I understand that Meredith has an obsession with bathtubs but I have an obsession with views and I have one and I'm not giving it up,' Lisa said in a confessional.

A medic came to the house to check on Meredith. He gave her an IV because she was dehydrated. The women changed and Heather had arranged a rum tasting on the beach. Meredith got her makeup done while she was hooked up to an IV. The women got into a sprinter van to go to dinner and Meredith got in and joined them.

'I have a question for everyone in this car,' Meredith said. ' Who here has a room with a bathtub in it?'

'I understand that Meredith has an obsession with bathtubs but I have an obsession with views and I have one and I'm not giving it up,' Lisa said in a confessional.

They all said that they did.

'You all saw that I was white as a ghost covered in blankets in the middle of an island, very ill,' Meredith said. 'I said I'd like to warm up. I'd like to take a bath. And somehow I got shoved in one without a bathtub. I just feel that it might have been nice knowing as sick as I was, that you might have thought let's give her a room with a bathtub.``

No one offered to give up their room.

'Less than an hour ago, Meredith was on death's door and now she is pouncing on us like she drank for the fountain of youth,' Heather said in a confessional. 'I want to know what was in her IV and how I can get some.'

Meredith and Angie then started going out it.

'I think you're low and dirty and classless,' Meredith,' Angie said.

Meredith laughed. Meredith told her they should sit down together one-on-one. Angie agreed. At the restaurant, Whitney then told Lisa that she was still hurt by her.

They went home. Monica sat up with Meredith and chatted.

'Quite frankly since we got here Monica has been the only one here for me,' Meredith said. 'If it wasn't for Monica I would already be on the plane home.'

Monica said Angie provoked her and did not take accountability for her behavior.

'Gaslighting and manipulating 101,' Meredith said.

Monica said in a confessional she was hanging out in Park City with Meredith, which Meredith told her used to be run by the Greek Mafia, which then led to a discussion about Angie and how Angie could possibly be in the Greek mafia. Monica said that both Meredith and her received DM messages about Angie and Shawn alleging that they were misrepresenting themselves on TV along with allegations of bankruptcy.

'It was like the legal filings and numbers,' Monica said.

'I don't know anything about it,' Meredith said.

Monica said in a confessional she was hanging out in Park City with Meredith, which Meredith told her used to be run by the Greek Mafia, which then led to a discussion about Angie and how Angie could possibly be in the Greek mafia

Monica said that both Meredith and her received DM messages about Angie and Shawn alleging that they were misrepresenting themselves on TV along with allegations of bankruptcy

'It was like the legal filings and numbers,' Monica said

'I don't know anything about it,' Meredith said

'I don't know if Meredith is severely jet lagged and exhausted and dehydrated, but I'm very confused why she is acting like she couldn't care less about the DMs when Meredith was the one who called me to tell me about the DMs in the first place,' Monica said in a confessional.

'Karma comes back at you,' Meredith said. 'You do bad things, it comes back to bite you.'

The Real Housewives Of Salt Lake City will return next Tuesday on Bravo.
Julia Roberts revealed that former President Barack Obama collaborated with her director for her latest movie on Tuesday while appearing on a talk show.

The 56-year-old actress while visiting The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon was asked about Barack, 62, and his wife Michelle Obama, 59, being producers of Leave The World Behind with their Higher Ground production company.

Leave The Word Behind is a psychological thriller written, directed and produced by Sam Esmail, 46, who created Mr. Robot and is based on the 2020 novel of the same name by Rumaan Alam, 46.

'Did they work closely with the film?,' Jimmy, 49, asked of the Obamas.

'Yes. Well, this was on President Obama's reading list, you know, he puts out his cool books and cool songs,' Julia said referencing Barack's annual recommendations.

Julia Roberts revealed that former President Barack Obama collaborated with her director for her latest movie on Tuesday while appearing on a talk show

'So this book was on his list and he's a big fan of Mr. Robot. And so I think he and Sam, you know, collaborated with the notes in the beginning and the notes when we were done filming and the post production,' Julia said.

Leave The World Behind premiered in October at the AFI Fest and was released in selected theaters on November 22 ahead of its streaming release by Netflix on Friday.

A premise of the film provided by Netflix said it follows a family on vacation in Long Island who are interrupted by the owners of the home they rented bearing news of a mysterious blackout.

'Imagine him in the editing room,' Jimmy said of Barack before he launched into an imitation of the former president.

'If you're knocking on the door, I would hide. It's his Airbnb. It's his Airbnb. He can do what he wants. He's allowed to live there, it's his house,' Jimmy said while impersonating Barack as Julia doubled over in laughter.

Leave The World Behind also stars Ethan Hawke, Mahershala Ali, Myha'la and Kevin Bacon.

Julia in addition to starring in the film also is a co-producer after previously working with Sam on the thriller TV series Homecoming.

The cast of Leave The World Behind was unable to attend the film's premiere in October due to the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike.

Former President Barack Obama, shown in November in Chicago, collaborated with director Sam Esmail on the film adaptation of Leave The World Behind

'Yes. Well, this was on President Obama's reading list, you know, he puts out his cool books and cool songs,' Julia said referencing Barack's annual recommendations

Sam Esmail, shown on Monday in New York City, created Mr. Robot and directed Leave The World Behind

Michelle and Barack Obama, shown in September 2021 in Chicago, are producers of Leave The World Behind with their Higher Ground production company

Julia has been married since 2002 to Daniel Moder, 54, and they have three children together.

The actress said two of her three children currently are in college and her youngest Henry is still at home.

Julia on the chat show also confessed to being a huge Taylor Swift fan.

She previously starred in the 2022 film Ticket To Paradise with George Clooney and also was an executive producer.
Nigel Farage's long-term girlfriend Laure Ferrari was spotted enjoying a dip on Australia's Gold Coast as she waits to be reunited with the Brexit Party founder when he leaves I'm a Celebrity.

The 44-year-old arrived at the Marriott Hotel in Surfers Paradise on Sunday and is staying at the luxury hotel while Farage, 59, has spent 18 days sleeping on a camping bed eating rice and beans.

Mr Farage's former aide wore a sheer beach top over a hot pink bikini and walked to and from the beach listening to her headphones.

Laure has not been joining the friends and family cohort that leaves at 5.30am each morning from the Marriott and drives to the jungle in case they are required to greet their loved ones off the bridge after a live elimination.

Instead, Nigel's 18-year-old daughter Isabelle has been making the trip as she will be officially greeting him and accompanying her father to the hotel.

Nigel Farage's long-term girlfriend Laure Ferrari was spotted enjoying a dip on Australia's Gold Coast as she waits to be reunited with the Brexit Party founder when he leaves I'm a Celebrity

The 44-year-old arrived at the Marriott Hotel in Surfers Paradise on Sunday and is staying at the luxury hotel while Farage, 59, has spent 18 days sleeping on a camping bed eating rice and beans

The far-right French politician and Mr Farage's former aide wore a sheer beach top over a hot pink bikini and walked to and from the beach listening to her headphones

Nigel has survived the first three eliminations on I'm A Celebrity and is among the final seven stars remaining

Since deciding to join Nigel in Australia, Laure has finally spoken about their unconfirmed relationship.

Speaking to the Mail, she said: 'I really believe Nigel can win. I see it as a duty to support him. When he was invited on to I'm a Celebrity, we talked about it.

'I saw it as a massive opportunity for him to shine. He was more thoughtful about it. He consulted his family and friends. It was a team effort that got him to appear.'

When asked about his bare bottom being shown to millions of viewers in the jungle shower, she replied: 'He's got a great bottom, what's wrong with that?'

French right wing politician Laure and Nigel have been linked since 2017 after she moved into his 4 million Georgian home in Chelsea and was seen taking the bins out.

At the time Nigel dismissed the idea of an affair as 'crackers' as he had just announced the separation from his wife of 18 years, Kirsten.

Laure, who is 15 years Farage's junior, met the politician 10 years earlier in 2007 when she was working as a waitress in Strasbourg.

Laure is clearly making the most of her time in Australia as she soaked up the sun during her beach trip

Also during her trip she sported a pair of sunglasses and carried a large floral bag

Laure moved into Nigel's 4million Georgian home in Chelsea in 2017 and was seen taking his bins out

Since deciding to join Nigel in Australia, Laure has finally spoken about their unconfirmed relationship

Speaking to the Mail, she said: 'I really believe Nigel can win. I see it as a duty to support him. When he was invited on to I'm a Celebrity, we talked about it'

She added:: 'I saw it as a massive opportunity for him to shine. He was more thoughtful about it. He consulted his family and friends. It was a team effort that got him to appear'

After the exchange with the then 28-year-old, Nigel appointed her as a parliamentary assistant in charge of environmental issues in the UK - her first job in politics.

From there she was made PR director of Nigel's parliamentary group Europe of Freedom and Direct Democracy in 2009 and eventually worked for the French nationalist party.

In 2017 - right when she moved in with Nigel as a 'lodger' - she headed up a Eurosceptic think tank which was accused of illegally diverting 400,000 of public money to UKIP - before the UK General Election and Brexit referendum.

Amid these accusations, the pair were seen enjoying a drink at a London pub together locked in conversation before both discreetly exiting a chauffeur-driven Range Rover.

When asked about his bare bottom being shown to millions of viewers in the jungle shower, she replied: 'He's got a great bottom, what's wrong with that?'

Although they have been together since 2017, Laure, who is 15 years Farage's junior, met the politician 10 years earlier in 2007 when she was working as a waitress in Strasbourg

After the exchange with the then 28-year-old, Nigel appointed her as a parliamentary assistant in charge of environmental issues in the UK - her first job in politics

From there she was made PR director of Nigel's parliamentary group Europe of Freedom and Direct Democracy in 2009 and eventually worked for the French nationalist party

It was reported that 'Nigel's attention was only on one woman all night' but they appeared cautious to be seen together with Nigel continually denying claims of a romantic relationship.

He told the Mail on Sunday: 'She is someone I have worked with and known for a long time who wanted somewhere to stay for a week that wouldn't cost her any money.

'It's a working relationship. You can inflate it however you want to.'

Laure was living with Nigel at the time because she needed accommodation and had nowhere else to stay - according to the former politician.

It was announced that same month, in February 2017, the father-of-four and his German wife Kristen had been 'living separate lives' for years and Nigel had moved out of their family home in Kent.
Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola put on a very steamy display on Tuesday as they trained for Saturday's Strictly Come Dancing semi-final.

The Coronation Street star, 22, and Italian professional dancer, 31, appeared very cosy as they threw themselves into a 13-hour training session.

Vito was even snapped whipping off his shirt as things became more intense during the saucy session.

The two appeared closer than ever, with intense eye contact and close proximity to one another.

The pair have sparked much speculation over the nature of their relationship after appearing cosy in rehearsals, with Vito even calling Ellie 'my baby' in an Instagram post.

Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola put on a very steamy display on Tuesday while training for Saturday's Strictly Come Dancing semi-final

The pair have sparked much speculation over the nature of their relationship after appearing cosy in rehearsals

However, they are yet to confirm their romance.

Ellie and Vito are preparing two dances for Saturday's semi-final - a Cha-Cha to the Bette Midler version of 'Mambo Italiano' and a Couples' Choice dance to a Dua Lipa medley.

They will battle it out against the three other remaining couples: Bobby Brazier and Dianne Buswell, Annabel Croft and Johannes Radebe and Layton Williams and Nikita Kuzmin.

The pressure is on for the contestants as they are learning two new dances ahead of the BBC show at the weekend.

Last week Ellie and Vito's quickstep scored second in the leaderboard with 36 after Layton and Nikita.

Fans were left fuming that Ellie and Vito were not given full marks for their dance to Belle from Disney's Beauty and The Beast during musicals week.

Despite topping the leaderboard for several weeks, the pair are yet to achieve the perfect 40 as judge Craig Revel Horwood has refused to use his 10 paddle for them.

The pair failed to score the perfect 40 yet again as they received four nines from the judges placing them second on the leaderboard with 36.

The Coronation Street star, 22, and Italian professional dancer, 31, appeared very cosy

Vito was even snapped whipping off his shirt as things became more intense during the saucy session

The two appeared closer than ever, with intense eye contact and close proximity to one another

Ellie and Vito are preparing two dances for Saturday's semi-final as the pressure intensifies

The two have only got closer throughout the show, regularly spending all day training together

They will battle it out against the three other remaining couples

And loyal fans took to Twitter as they shared their anger of the soapstar's scores.

One wrote: 'Sick of Ellie and Vito not getting the 40!'

It comes after it was claimed that Ellie and Vito have been secretly seeing each other for over a month.

The couple has been under the spotlight after being accused of faking their romance in order to help win votes, but a source close to Ellie revealed they have been together for a few weeks.

Things between the Coronation Street actress, 22, and the Italian pro dancer, 31, are 'genuine' - a source told The Mirror.

The couple seems happier than ever on Saturday night as they danced the quickstep to Beauty And The Beast's Belle.

Vito reportedly has visited the actress' home several times outside of training while Ellie has confided in friends about her new relationship with the dance pro.

'Initially, they were friendly but as the weeks went on, their relationship changed. Ellie has made it clear to friends how happy she is with Vito,' said the friend.

They will perform a Cha-Cha to the Bette Midler version of 'Mambo Italiano' and a Couples' Choice dance to a Dua Lipa medley

Strictly fans were left FUMING over their score last weekend in musicals week

The pair failed to score the perfect 40 yet again as they received four nine's from the judges placing them second on the leaderboard with 36

'She's not the kind of person to fake something like that for votes. Putting on a showmance isn't her style  what you see with her is what you get. When Ellie started Strictly, she was self-conscious and unsure. Now she's radiating confidence, which is lovely.'

A second source detailed how the duo's increasing closeness has become obvious not only backstage but also while promoting the show together.

They said: 'Ellie and Vito have become so close that they're often seen all over each other, and the chemistry is striking. The rumour they're more than friends isn't openly discussed, but it's widely understood.'

Fuelling more speculations Ellie called Vito 'wild' during an appearance on It Takes Two earlier last week, and gave him credit for her 'newfound' confidence.

Yet, the Corrie sensation brushed off any romance questions as she said: 'There's always speculation. Honestly, we're just so busy dancing.'

Representatives for Ellie, Vito and Strictly previously declined to comment when contacted by MailOnline.
Rufus Sewell's engagement to his fiancee was a bittersweet moment for his future bride as her father was diagnosed with a brain tumour just weeks before the star's romantic proposal.

The Holiday actor, 56, asked former model booker Vivian Benitez, 27, who's 29 years his junior, to marry him in Rome this week, popping the question with a sparkling diamond ring.

But the couple's commitment to wed comes amid a troubling time for Vivian and her family as her dad suffered multiple seizures, a stroke, heart attack and a burst bowel in November, and was later diagnosed with a stage four brain tumour.

Vivian has explained that it's unlikely her dad will survive but hoped he could 'beat the odds' while paying tribute to the 'funniest, most lovingly offensive, sensitive, beautiful man you'll ever meet.'

And Rufus, also famed for starring in Netflix series The Diplomat and ITV drama Victoria, will have helped to console his long-term girlfriend through the trauma, with Vivian often referring to him as her 'best friend' and 'love of her life.'

Rufus Sewell's engagement to his fiancee was a bittersweet moment for his future bride as her father was diagnosed with a brain tumour just weeks before the star's romantic proposal

The Holiday actor asked former model booker Vivian Benitez to marry him in Rome this week, popping the question with a sparkling diamond ring

The couple's commitment to wed comes amid a troubling time for Vivian and her family as her dad (pictured) suffered multiple seizures, a stroke, heart attack and a burst bowel in November, and was later diagnosed with a stage four brain tumour

Vivian has spoken about the importance of family after reflecting on how her mother (pictured far left) struggled to put food on the table for her and older sister Emma (centre)

Vivian often shares with her fanbase the importance of family, reflecting on her difficult childhood and mother's struggle to put food on the table for her and older sister Emma.

Her parents were born in Cuba and moved to the United States in 1980, with Vivian saying her Hispanic heritage has made it harder to land roles in Hollywood.

After moving into her first home last year, Vivian said: 'I grew up with my mother breaking her back and struggling to put food on the table for the better part of my life.

'I live in fear of losing my security like most kids that grew up the way I did probably do. But now, for the first time, it feels like I'll always have a roof over my head. It's a really nice feeling.'

She moved to glamorous Miami in 2014 to work for model agency Wilhelmina, where she became a partygoer on the Hollywood scene and regular at celebrity hotspots Chateau Marmont, Soho Beach House and 1 Oak nightclub.

While trying to crack the film and television industry, she socialised with the beautiful models she worked with before landing a role in Paramount+ show Criminal Minds and 2021 short film Sky Dancers Grown Up.

Vivian has spoken about the difficulties of being cast on shows, writing on Instagram: 'I spent most of my life trying to hide the fact that I am Hispanic just to be liberated by mainstream media and then told by white casting directors I'm not Hispanic looking enough.'

Indeed, her image has changed over the years, with Vivian admitting that she went from dying her hair bleach blonde and having two gold teeth to a demurer appearance, which likely attracted Rufus, who she started dating in 2019.

Vivian's parents were born in Cuba and they moved to the United States in 1980, with the actress saying her Hispanic heritage has made it harder to land roles in Hollywood

Rufus started dated Vivian in early 2019 and the couple marked their one-year anniversary by sharing a sunset image of them hugging each other on the beach

The model agent regularly shares updates on the couple's relationship, calling Rufus the 'love of her life' and 'best friend'

She announced their engagement on Tuesday with a photograph showing her sparkling ring following the couple's romantic break in Rome

Alongside a photo of Vivian showcasing her natural brunette hair, she wrote: 'Seven years ago I had cornrows, two gold teeth, and would text people things like 'what it do' happy to say I would've surely puked at current coastal-grandma-me shot.'

Rufus started dated Vivian in early 2019 and the couple marked their one-year anniversary by sharing a sunset image of them hugging each other on the beach.

Vivian wrote: 'One year of being in love has really taken my personality hostage. Pray for its safe return.'

It appears that Rufus first wooed his younger girlfriend, who is reportedly 29 years his junior, by taking her to picturesque Wales, with the couple spending many romantic breaks together exploring the Pembrokeshire Coast.

Rufus has been married on two other occasions, his first wife was Australian fashion journalist Yasmin Abdallah, and they were together for a year before getting divorced.

His second marriage to producer Amy Gardner lasted from 2004-2006. The exes share a son William, who is now 21 years old.

The actor also has a daughter Lola, who was born in 2013, with former partner, writer Ami Komai.

Rufus previously said of his love life in an interview with the Mail: 'It's always been important to be in a relationship when I'm in one, but I don't actively look for one.

Vivian moved to glamorous Miami in 2014 to work for model agency Wilhelmina, where she became a partygoer on the Hollywood scene and regular at celebrity hotspots Chateau Marmont, Soho Beach House and 1 Oak nightclub

While trying to crack the film and TV industry, she socialised with the beautiful models she worked with before landing a role in Paramount+ show Criminal Minds and 2021 short film Sky Dancers Grown Up

The star's image has changed over the years, with Vivian admitting that she went from dying her hair bleach blonde and having two gold teeth to a demurer appearance (pictured in 2017)

'I've gone through long times without being with someone, but that's not happened for a while.'

He is best known for his role in romcom The Holiday starring in the movie alongside Jude Law, Cameron Diaz, and Jack Black.

His character Jasper left Kate Winslet's Iris, who was in love with him, heartbroken by announcing his engagement to another woman at Christmas.

Rufus has been cast as Prince Andrew in the upcoming Netflix drama Scoop, which tells the story behind the royal's bombshell BBC interview with Newsnight reporter Emily Maitlis.
Timothee Chalamet's waxwork is heading to Madame Tussauds London.

The Wonka star, 27, - who is taking on the lead role as the eccentric chocolatier in the new film - is joining the wax museum's star-studded spring 2024 lineup.

The Baker Street attraction unveiled some behind-the-scenes snaps, giving fans a glimpse of what's to come.

Madame Tussauds managed to perfectly capture Timothee's curls and chiselled features in the sneak peek snaps.

Jo Kinsey, Studio Manager at Madame Tussauds London, said: 'Timothee Chalamet is the new type of Hollywood leading man and were working closely with him on every detail of his upcoming figure.'

Timothee Chalamet's waxwork is joining Madame Tussauds London's star-studded Spring 2024 lineup

Timothee, 27, has been promoting his new film Wonka, in which he plays the eccentric chocolatier - pictured on December 1

Madame Tussauds gave fans a sneak peek of the Wonka actor's wax figure, which is set to be unveiled in spring 2024

Timothee's fans will have to wait a good few months to see the waxwork in all its glory at the attraction

'A firm fan favourite, he shines as brightly on screen as he does on the front cover of Vogue or GQ, never compromising who he is or what he stands for, captivating not only hearts but minds too.

'We can't wait for fans to see his first ever Madame Tussauds figure.

'The team here are having a lot of fun combing through his fashion back catalogue to choose the perfect outfit and will be spending a lot of time perfecting those trademark chiselled cheekbones  they may even be the most distinctive weve worked on yet!'

Timothee is now back in Los Angeles after spending five months filming the new Charlie and the Chocolate Factory prequel Wonka in the UK.

Appearing on Friday's The Graham Norton Show, the Dune star said of the movie: 'I am proud of all the films I have done but this is my favourite.

'It is the most fun Ive had working on anything ever. It is sweet and good and will fill you with joy.'

He added of working in the UK, 'We shot the film in London so, after spending five months here I feel like an honorary Brit  it was joyous.'

It was revealed last month that Timothee's girlfriend Kylie Jenner flew to London to support the actor at the Wonka party.

Timothee plays a young Willy Wonka in the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory prequel, which is set to be released December 8

Timothee is thought to have been dating Kylie Jenner since early April after the pair met during Paris Fashion Week in January

Kylie, 25, is said to have flown into Stansted on her private jet before heading to Royal Festival Hall where the bash took place.

A source told MailOnline: Kylie was keeping a very low-profile at the party and headed to a private room behind a red curtain to celebrate with Timothee. It was the talk of the party!

The lovebirds are thought to have been quietly dating since early April after sparking up a romance after they both attended the Jean-Paul Gaultier fashion show at Paris Fashion Week on January 25, 2023.

Kylie previously dated Travis Scott - who she shares daughter Stormi, 5, and 22-month-old son Aire with - on/off from 2017 until December 2022.

Meanwhile Timothee has been linked to Lily-Rose Depp, Eiza Gonzalez and Lourdes Leon.

The actor has been busy recently promoting the new Wonka film, in which he stars alongside the likes of Olivia Colman, who plays Mrs. Scrubbit and Hugh Grant, who plays an Oompa Loompa.

Wonka - set to be released on December 8 - focuses on a young Willy Wonka and how he came to meet the famous Oompa-Loompas.
Georgia Fowler turned heads at this year's GQ Men of the Year Awards in Sydney on Wednesday.

The Victoria's Secret model, 31, hit the red carpet in a floor length red gown that showed off her growing baby bump.

Looking radiant, the beauty posed alongside her husband Nathan Dallah in the daring backless outfit, which featured a rose-shaped frill and crew neck.

The Kiwi catwalk star had her black hair shaped into a tight bun, and showed off a stunning makeup look featuring bright red lips and eye-glitter on the night.

For accessories, the stunner selected a pair of diamond drop ear rings which she matched with silver arm bands.

Georgia Fowler turned heads at this year's GQ Men of the Year Awards in Sydney on Wednesday. Pictured

The Victoria's Secret model, 31, hit the red carpet in a floor length red gown that showed off her growing baby bump. Pictured with husband Nathan Dallah

Georgia, who announced she was expecting in September, completed her outfit with a spangly silver hand bag and a pair of red high heels.

Meanwhile, Georgia's husband Nathan, 25, looked dashing in a classic black tux, which he wore with a white dress shirt, bow tie and cummerbund.

The Fishbowl founder wore went for a casual shaggy hair look and completed his outfit with a set of gleaming black dress shoes.

It comes after the pair tied the knot in January this year in a gorgeous countryside ceremony.

The glamour couple exchanged vows at Hopewood House in the township of Bowral, in the NSW Southern Highlands.

Among the attendees were the couple's fashion friends, including model Tahnee Atkinson, fashionista Rey Vakili and designers Sophie Coote and Nikki Campbell.

Also attending was Patrick Johnson, an 'Australian Tailor to the Stars' and his wife Tamsin Johnson, an interior designer.

Juggling 'a fine balance' between motherhood and work, the happy couple are parents to their daughter Dylan.

Georgia announced her engagement to Nathan in July last year.

The Kiwi catwalk star had her black hair shaped into a tight bun, and showed off a stunning makeup look featuring bright red lips and eye-glitter on the night

She announced the happy news on Instagram, revealing her boyfriend of two years proposed during a photoshoot for Tiffany & Co.

Nathan is the co-founder of healthy fast food chain Fishbowl alongside Nic Pestalozzi and Casper Ettleson.

The trio opened their first restaurant in Bondi, in Sydney's eastern suburbs, back in 2016.

Five years later, the chain - which specialises in made-to-order Japanese-style salads - has become an empire set to make $60million in revenue in 2022.
Danny Miller has deleted his social media account following a fat-shaming dispute between nasty trolls on Tuesday.

The Emmerdale star, 32, who plays Aaron Dingle on the soap, hit back at cruel fans on X, formerly known as Twitter, after he was branded 'fat' and 'chubby'.

But before deleting his account, Danny decided to reach out to the troll to point out he was 'unbothered' by the comment.

He wrote: 'Say what you want about Aaron. He's fictional, I play what I'm told to play. But please don't think commenting about 'Danny' being 'fat' or 'chubby' will EVER bother me.

'I'm sat eating a greasy kebab AND a pizza, laughing at you whilst gulping a FULL FAT COKE you b******* [laughing face emojis].'

Danny Miller, 32, has deleted his social media account following a fat-shaming dispute between nasty trolls on Tuesday (pictured on Loose Women in August)

The Emmerdale star, who plays Aaron Dingle on the soap, hit back at cruel fans on X, formerly known as Twitter, after he was branded 'fat' and 'chubby'

Aaron, who shares two children Albert, two, and a baby girl, four months, with his wife Steph Jones, recently returned to Emmerdale after seemingly leaving the Dales for good.

And viewers may finally get their wish as Danny teased a return for Ryan Hawkley and the fan favourite duo 'Robron'.

The actor admitted he is trying to talk his former co-star into returning and revealed he is desperate for his friend Ryan to return to his role as the character's ex-husband Robert Sugden.

Ryan quit the show in 2019 after Robert was sentenced to life in prison over the death of Lee Posner, who he accidentally killed during an attack.

Robert attacked Lee after learning he had raped his sister Victoria Sugden and later owned up to his crime and was sentenced to time in prison.

However, there may be hope of a return, following a series of hints that Robert may have not caused his death after all.

It later emerged that Lee had also been hit by his brother Luke, which may have been the actual cause of his death.

Danny and viewers alike are keen for Ryan's return, as he recently told TV Times magazine, Danny said: 'I'm still great friends with Ryan Hawley [who memorably played Aaron's husband, Robert Sugden].

But before deleting his account, Danny decided to reach out to the troll to point out he was 'unbothered' by the comment

Danny shared a funny meme making light of the nasty trolls and hit back to say he was unfazed by their post

Aaron, who shares two children Albert, two, and a baby girl, four months, with his wife Steph Jones (all pictured), recently returned to Emmerdale after seemingly leaving the Dales for good

And viewers may finally get their wish as Danny teased a return for Ryan Hawkley and the fan favourite duo 'Robron' (pictured on their wedding day in 2018 on the soap)

Ryan quit the show in 2019 after Robert was sentenced to life in prison over the death of Lee Posner, who he accidentally killed during an attack (pictured in court in 2019)

Danny revealed he is desperate for his friend Ryan to return to his role as the character's ex-husband Robert Sugden

Adam Thomas [AKA Adam Barton] is off doing his own thing, as is Kelvin Fletcher [who portrayed Andy Sugden], but we're all still very close.

'I think if I could pick one person, though, I'd love to work with Ryan again. It's just a case of if I can talk him round. Every single day I get a video or message saying 'Bring back Robron!'.

Last week, Aaron was unveiled as the mystery man being held hostage in an abandoned farmhouse by family members Cain and Caleb.

But despite making a dramatic comeback, fans of the soap were already calling for the character to leave the village for good following his treatment of the beloved Paddy Kirk (Dominic Brunt).

Viewers watched Aaron rage at Cain (Jeff Hordley) and Caleb (William Ash) last week as they kept him tied up in the farmhouse after they kidnapped him in Italy to save him from the mafia, with Aaron having picked a fight with members of the criminal organisation.

Aaron then had a run in with local gangster Harry after he took his mother Chas (Lucy Pargeter) hostage last week, plowing the criminal down with a car, before heading back to the village.

This week, Aaron was on the warpath with the local residents, and unleashed his acid tongue on an unsuspecting Paddy, spitting out some very harsh comments about his previous suicide attempt.

Bumping into him in the cafe, Paddy was surprised Aaron had not come to find him, saying: 'I missed you, and I thought youd miss me.'

Last week, Aaron was unveiled as the mystery man being held hostage in an abandoned farmhouse by family members Cain and Caleb

Aaron was on the warpath with local residents and unleashed his acid tongue on an unsuspecting Paddy, spitting out some harsh comments about his previous suicide attempt.

The moment left viewers aghast, with many taking to Twitter to express their disgust while called for Aaron to leave the village despite arriving back just days ago

Emmerdale viewers were delighted as they watched Aaron Dingle leave his mother Chas in the hands of her gangster hostage-takers during Friday's episode

Noticing Aaron's dark mood, Paddy tried to comfort Aaron, suspecting he was grieving his sister Liv who was killed in a storm a year ago.

Paddy told him: 'Dont pretend it doesnt affect you. We all know how much you loved her.'

He went to try and get Aaron to open up about what was troubling him, discussing his own troubles including his suicide attempt.

Paddy said: 'I came close to doing something there was no coming back from'

However, Aaron's response was cruel: 'I heard all about that. How you didnt have the guts to go through with it. Pathetic, Paddy.

'Maybe you should have done it. Done us all a favour. Were better off without you.'

The moment left viewers aghast, with many taking to Twitter to express their disgust while called for Aaron to leave the village despite arriving back just days ago.

One person wrote: 'If this is the way Aaron is going to behave I want him gone hes getting on my nerves!'
For some it's a case of once bitten, twice shy, three times a fool, but Rufus Sewell was having none of it as he confirmed his engagement on Tuesday afternoon.

The twice-married actor, 56, revealed a surprise marriage proposal to long-time girlfriend Vivian Benitez - who is 31-years his junior - as he endeavors to make it third time lucky.

Taking to Instagram, Sewell, known to millions as philandering love-rat Jasper Bloom in festive film The Holiday, stunned his predominantly female fanbase by announcing the news while showing off 26-year old Vivian's engagement ring.

But while the young actress may well be enjoying her first rodeo, it's familiar terrain for her handsome fiance, whose colourful romantic history includes two failed marriages and countless broken hearts.

Indeed, fleeting romances with actresses Alice Eve, Catalina Guirado, Donna Air, the late Helen McCrory and even Kate Winslet - his co-star in The Holiday - feature on the notoriously private star's list of past love interests.

For some it's a case of once bitten, twice shy, three times a fool, but Rufus Sewell was having none of it as he confirmed his engagement on Vivian Benitez on Tuesday afternoon

The twice-married actor revealed he has proposed to long-time girlfriend Vivian Benitez - who is 31-years his junior - as he endeavors to make it third time lucky

Sewell, known to millions as philandering love-rat Jasper Bloom in festive film The Holiday (pictured)

(L-R) The Holiday co-stars Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, Kate Winslet and Rufus Sewell. Sewell had a brief relationship with Winslet before marrying his first wife

But it would be an unfamiliar entry that would first capture his roving heart.

After dating a series of high profile stars the actor finally exchanged vows with Yasmin Abdullah, an Australian fashion journalist whose life was largely spent out of the public eye.

Now 47, Abdallah met Rufus in her home-country when she was 19-years old before exchanging vows four-years later, in 1999.

She would soon relocate to the United Kingdom - where her marriage to the actor saw her mingle with the notorious Primrose Hill set - but the marriage proved short-lived and the couple filed for divorce little more than a year later.

Discussing their separation in an interview with ELLE, the journalist admitted she struggled to fit in with Sewell's array of celebrity friends after moving to the U.K.

She said: 'I dont know if I was accepted to be honest some weird, shaved-head Aussie-Lebanese girl who wasnt quite part of the mix.

'I ended up making some wrong decisions, wrong business decisions, and I ended up losing the store, which was devastating for me

'Rufus and I were no longer together, and that was quite traumatic. I was broke. It was a time of big loss. But it was also a time of great healing, when I went on  dare I say it  a spiritual journey.'

After dating a series of high profile stars the actor first exchanged vows with Yasmin Abdullah, an Australian fashion journalist whose life was largely spent out of the public eye, in 1999

Now 47, Abdallah met Rufus in her home-country when she was 19-years old before exchanging vows four-years later, in 1999 (pictured at the Evening Standard Awards in 1997)

Abdallah would relocate to the United Kingdom, but the marriage proved short-lived marriage, with the couple filing for divorce little more than a year later (pictured in 1997)

On February 7 2004 Sewell made a second attempt at marital bliss by marrying screenwriter and producer Amy Gardner - two years after she gave birth to the actor's first child.

The actor had embarked on a relationship with Gardner in 2001, just months after divorcing Abdallah, before exchanging vows the following year.

She would give birth to the actor's only child, son William Douglas, now 21, in 2002, and Sewell later admitted the family unit gave him some much needed stability at a point in his career when he was on and out of work.

Speaking in 2003, he told The Telegraph: 'They would come and have lunch with me every day, and I would go home to them at night. I guess it was a bit like having a regular job in that it felt very stable.'

Of maintaining a bond with William while travelling the globe to fulfill acting commitments, he added: 'Theres nothing wrong with not having a base if Mummy and Daddy are always there to hug him and make sure he feels grounded.'

However it would not be enough to preserve the marriage, with Sewell and Gardner divorcing in 2006.

On February 7 2004 Sewell made a second attempt at marital bliss by marrying screenwriter and producer Amy Gardner (pictured) - two years after she gave birth to the actor's first child

The actor had embarked on a relationship with Gardner in 2001, just months after divorcing Abdallah, before exchanging vows the following year (pictured together in 2001)

Gardner would give birth to the actor's only child, son William Douglas, now 21, in 2002, but the couple would divorce two years after their marriage, in 2006

Sewell started dating actress Alice Eve after they met while starring in a 2006 production of the play Rock 'n' Roll

Sewell made a series of red carpet appearances with Eve (pictured) during their short lived romance

Sewell with former girlfriend Eve at the Vogue 7th ON SALE 2007 Gala at 69th Regiment Armory in 2007

Amy, who established production company Finite Films in 2007 and is renowned for supporting emerging talent, has since remarried with producer William Ricker.

Following his second divorce Sewell embarked on a short-lived romance with Alice Eve after falling for the actress while working on a 2006 production of Rock 'N' Roll.

But after a series of red carpet appearances it would fizzle out and the actor soon settled into a relationship with Ami Komai, a hairstylist and Editor-in-Chief of online magazine Bright Lite, who is 19-years his junior.

The couple welcomed daughter Lola - Sewell's second child - in 2013, with the actor later admitting her birth gave him a base and enabled him to star in a 2016 production of Art, in London's West End.

'I couldnt have taken the job if that hadnt happened,' he said at the time. 'Its the most important thing for me.'

Speaking to Weekend magazine in 2019, Komai admitted she was 'terrified' of motherhood while pregnant with her daughter and launched her online magazine for teenage girls after Lola's birth forced her to confront her own difficult upbringing.

'When I had my daughter Lola, it brought up all this stuff that I hadnt quite dealt with from my childhood,' she said.

'All these things that made me realise where some of my deepest insecurities came from, specifically those relating to gender and my place in the world. I was terrified to be a mom to a little girl and I think Bright Lite was my way of coping with that.'

Sewell eventually began a relationship with Ami Komai (pictured), a hairstylist and Editor-in-Chief of online magazine Bright Lite who is 19-years his junior

The couple welcomed daughter Lola - Sewell's second child - in 2013, with Sewell admitting her birth gave him an opportunity to star in a production of Art in London's West End

Speaking to Weekend magazine in 2019, Komai admitted she was 'terrified' of motherhood while pregnant with her daughter and launched her online magazine for teenage girls after Lola's birth forced her to confront her own difficult upbringing

Now, the actor is looking ahead to his third marriage with fellow actor Vivian Benitez (pictured), who has starred in Arsenal, Criminal Minds and Sky Dancers Grown Up.

Tweeting about the launch of Komai's website in 2018, Sewell wrote: 'Bright Lite is Amis (Lolas mums) magazine for girls, by girls. Now shes launched the website. I think its amazing.'

While the timing of Sewell's separation from Komai is unknown, the couple were still romantically connected as recently as 2020, when the world was gripped by the spread of COVID-19.

Speaking about the pandemic, lockdown and its impact on their relationship with The Telegraph in 2022, he admitted he was either looking forward to having a day off or looking forward to having her back".

Sewell previously said of his love life in an interview with the Mail: 'It's always been important to be in a relationship when I'm in one, but I don't actively look for one.

'I've gone through long times without being with someone, but that's not happened for a while.'

While Sewell's presence is limited on social media, he regularly features on his new fiancee's Instagram account

Swell and Benitez at the New York City premiere of Netflix show The Diplomat in April 2023

Now, the actor is looking ahead to his third marriage with fellow actor Benitez, who has starred in Arsenal, Criminal Minds and Sky Dancers Grown Up.

Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, she shared an image of the pair of them cuddling up on social media, as well as the beautiful diamond ring he gave her.

Captioning the post, she wrote: 'Til death, (or him continuing to walk on bathmats with his outside shoes) do us part.'

Watch this space.
A new Agatha Christie crime-drama, Murder Is Easy, was released by the BBC on Wednesday, starring Morfydd Clark and Tom Riley.

The 30-second trailer of the murder mystery turns back the clock to 1954, in Wychwood under Ashe, England.

The unassuming residents of the sleepy village seems to be under the assumption that the spate of recent deaths have been accidents.

But eagle-eyed Miss Pinkerton (Penelope Wilson) is seemingly not convinced.

In the short clip, Miss Pinkerton encounters Fitzwilliam (David Jonsson) and warns him about a killer on the loose in the quaint village.

The BBC has released a trailer for new Agatha Christie crime-drama Murder Is Easy featuring Morfydd Clark and Tom Riley (Pictured: Bridget (Morfydd Clark) & Lord Whitfield (Tom Riley)

In the short clip, Miss Pinkerton encounters Fitzwilliam (David Jonsson) and warns him about a killer on the loose in the quaint village.

Retired detective, Fitzwilliam, meets Miss Pinkerton (Penelope Wilson, pictured) who warns him about a killer on the loose in the quaint village of Wychwood Under Ashe

After the innocent elderly woman is found dead on her way to Scotland Yard, Fitzwilliam suspects something strange is afoot.

He takes it upon himself to find the killer before they claim a new victim, because for a certain someone in Wychwood Under Ashe, murder is easy....

Persistent to find out what exactly is going on in the strange and remote community, the protagonist is not met with the warmest of welcomes.

'Are you one of those men who never know when to leave well enough alone?" someone asks him,' someone queried Fitzwilliam.

On his quest to find the culprit, the retired detective meets an array of village residents along the way, including Bridget (Morfydd Clark), Major Horton (Douglas Henshall), Mrs Pierce (Tamzin Outhwaite), and many more.

Other characters are also set to make an appearance, such as, Mrs Humbleby (Nimra Bucha), Rose Humbleby (Phoebe Licorish) and Dr Thomas (Mathew Baynton).

The two-part thriller was directed by Meenu Gaur, and adapted by Sian Ejiwunmi-Le Berre from Christie's eponymous novel.

Mammoth Screen in conjunction with Agatha Christie Limited were responsible for producing the show.

Whilst trying to find the killer before they strike again, Fitzwilliam runs into many of the village residents, including Bridget ( Morfydd Clark ), Major Horton (Douglas Henshall), Mrs Pierce ( Tamzin Outhwaite)

Mammoth Screen's executive producer, James Gandhi, said the cryptic series will 'be a thrilling ride' for viewers.

'Sian Ejiwunmi-Le Berre's amazing adaptation of Murder is Easy digs into the divides at the heart of post-war English society, and we feel so lucky that the village of Wychwood is going to be brought to life by a dream cast.

'With Meenu Gaur at the directing helm and David Jonsson playing the lead, this promises to be a thrilling ride!'

Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, added that Christie fans were 'in for a treat' with the new crime drama.

'With an intriguing central mystery and a fantastic creative team behind the camera, it's no surprise that this new adaptation of Agatha Christie's classic whodunnit has attracted a who's who of UK acting talent to bring Murder is Easy to the screen.'

The show, which was filmed in Scotland, will be available on BBC One, iPlayer and BritBox International from Wednesday, December 27.

The second and final episode will air the following night.
Chloe Madeley revealed she hit a personal best while in the gym on Wednesday as she posed for a mirror selfie on Instagram.

The daughter of TV presenters Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan, 36, showcased her toned figure in a black crop top and leggings as she worked out.

She penned: '190kg 3 sets 8 reps PB on leg press'.

It comes after Chloe was spotted having dinner with estranged husband James Haskell and their daughter Bodhi, 15-months, in London on Tuesday.

The former rugby player, 38, was seen sipping on a pint of beer while reality star Chloe browsed on her phone.

Chloe Madeley revealed she hit a personal best while in the gym on Wednesday as she posed for a mirror selfie on Instagram

It comes after the reality star was spotted having dinner with ex James Haskell and their daughter Bodhi, 15-months, in London the day before

Chloe and James issued a joint statement in October, confirming that the separation was amicable and would remain so for the sake of Bodhi.

It comes after James was spotted partying in Ibiza with a lookalike of Chloe only weeks before announcing their marriage split.

James cut a casual figure for his outing with Chloe, wearing a blue hoodie and a pair of beige shorts.

Personal trainer Chloe opted for a grey tracksuit while she wore with a pair of comfortable white trainers.

James was seen holding daughter Bodhi in his arms as he stood by their table in the restaurant.

A source told The Sun: 'Chloe and James arent getting back together.

'They were out for a friendly lunch while they still work out how to co-parent.

'Just because they arent together, it doesnt mean they wont stay friendly.'

The daughter of TV presenters Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan, 36, loves to share her workout updates on social media

Chloe and James confirmed their separation was amicable and would remain so for the sake of daughter Bodhi

MailOnline has contacted representatives for both Chloe and James for comment.

The couple, who married in 2018, first fuelled speculation about their relationship after Chloe emerged without her wedding ring as she partied with friends - shortly after James was pictured chatting to a mystery blonde outside a London nightspot.

Chloe confirmed she had split from her husband James in a joint statement released in October.

In a joint update shared to Instagram, the couple who had starred in their own ITV reality show Chloe Madeley: A Family Affair this year, announced: 'Chloe and I mutually decided separate at the end of September, 2023.

'We had not planned on releasing a statement at this time - certainly not while the television show was airing - but constant speculation about our marriage has, unfortunately, forced our hand.'

She added: 'Beyond this statement, we will not be speaking about this matter publicly, and we would request privacy at this time.

The couple, who married in 2018, first fuelled speculation about their relationship after Chloe emerged without her wedding ring - shortly after James was pictured chatting to a mystery blonde outside a London nightspot

The couple confirmed their separation in a joint statement released in October after appearing in public without their wedding rings

'Our sole focus now is our beautiful daughter. We shall continue to co-parent with nothing but love.'

Sharing his own statement to Instagram, James added: 'It's with a lot of sadness I write this post, but unfortunately, in the world we live in, it has to be done.

'My priority is my daughters and Chloes happiness and security. For that reason, I won't be commenting any further.'

Last month, Chloe spoke publicly for the first time about her separation, with the television personality reflecting on the end of their five-year marriage after the subject was broached by a fan on social media.

She later opened up further about the split and told how she was finally feeling 'happy again' after a difficult time.
Rufus Sewell forked out around 8,000 ($10,000) on the engagement ring he gave to his fiancee Vivian Benitez.

The actor, 56, who played love rat Jasper in festive movie The Holiday, popped the question to the American actress, who is 30 years his junior. This will be the third time Rufus has tied the knot.

Vivian - who has starred in Arsenal, Criminal Minds and Sky Dancers Grown Up - shared an image of the pair of them cuddling up on social media, as well as the beautiful diamond ring Rufus gave her.

The stunning ring has a gold band and features a 1.25 round cut diamond in a solitaire setting.

Steven Stone's diamond expert Maxwell Stone estimated the rock to be worth a cool 8,000, significantly less than the typical celebrity engagement ring.

Rufus Sewell forked out around 8,000 pounds on the engagement ring he gave to his fiancee Vivian Benitez

The stunning ring has a gold band and features a 1.25 round cut diamond in a solitaire setting

He said: 'Rufus Sewell has kicked off the festive season by popping the question to his girlfriend Vivian Benitex.

'The Holiday star gifted the actress with an elegant engagement ring that boasts a 1.25ct round cut diamond in a solitaire setting, sat on a yellow gold band.

'Known for their brilliance and adaptability, round cut diamonds stand out as the top preference for engagement rings. The circular shape of the diamond is symbolic of an enduring and seamless connection between two people.

'Vivian joins a wealth of celebrities who wear a round cut diamond engagement ring  including Charli XCX, who announced her engagement to George Daniel just last week, showing off her 1ct round cut diamond that's also in a solitaire setting.

'I'd estimate Vivian's ring from Rufus to be worth 8,000 ($10,000). In our recent study, we found that the average value of a celebrity engagement ring in 2023 was 289,900  thus, Vivian's sparkler carries an incredibly modest price tag in comparison.'

Vivian announced the engagement on Instagram and wrote in the caption: 'Til death, (or him continuing to walk on bathmats with his outside shoes) do us part.'

It appears Rufus popped the question during a romantic getaway in Rome as Vivian shared a snap of herself in the city a day prior to their exciting announcement.

A host of Vivian's pals took to the comment section of the engagement post to share their congratulations.

The actor, 56, popped the question to the American actress, who is 30 years his junior. This will be the third time Rufus has tied the knot

Rufus famously played Kate Winslet's onscreen love interest in The Holiday - but his character turned out to be something of a love rat

A family member wrote: 'You are soooo good together. this makes my heart sing, We have a wedding to plan!'

Others typed: 'Oh my goodness!! The best couple. Congratulations you two, so much love to you both!' and 'I am so excited!!!!! YAY!!'.

The couple keep their relationship relatively private but have made some red carpet appearances over the years together.

In 2021 they put on a loved-up display at the premiere of Old in New York and Rufus sometimes features in Vivian's Instagram posts.

The couple's commitment to wed comes amid a troubling time for Vivian and her family as her dad suffered multiple seizures, a stroke, heart attack and a burst bowel in November, and was later diagnosed with a stage four brain tumour.

Vivian has explained that it's unlikely her dad will survive but hoped he could 'beat the odds' while paying tribute to the 'funniest, most lovingly offensive, sensitive, beautiful man you'll ever meet.'

And Rufus, also famed for starring in Netflix series The Diplomat and ITV drama Victoria, will have helped to console his long-term girlfriend through the trauma, with Vivian often referring to him as her 'best friend' and 'love of her life.'

Vivian often shares with her fanbase the importance of family, reflecting on her difficult childhood and mother's struggle to put food on the table for her and older sister Emma.

Her parents were born in Cuba and moved to the United States in 1980, with Vivian saying her Hispanic heritage has made it harder to land roles in Hollywood.

After moving into her first home last year, Vivian said: 'I grew up with my mother breaking her back and struggling to put food on the table for the better part of my life.

'I live in fear of losing my security like most kids that grew up the way I did probably do. But now, for the first time, it feels like I'll always have a roof over my head. It's a really nice feeling.'

She moved to glamorous Miami in 2014 to work for model agency Wilhelmina, where she became a partygoer on the Hollywood scene and regular at celebrity hotspots Chateau Marmont, Soho Beach House and 1 Oak nightclub.

While trying to crack the film and television industry, she socialised with the beautiful models she worked with before landing a role in Paramount+ show Criminal Minds and 2021 short film Sky Dancers Grown Up.

Vivian has spoken about the difficulties of being cast on shows, writing on Instagram: 'I spent most of my life trying to hide the fact that I am Hispanic just to be liberated by mainstream media and then told by white casting directors I'm not Hispanic looking enough.'

Indeed, her image has changed over the years, with Vivian admitting that she went from dying her hair bleach blonde and having two gold teeth to a demurer appearance, which likely attracted Rufus, who she started dating in 2019.

Alongside a photo of Vivian showcasing her natural brunette hair, she wrote: 'Seven years ago I had cornrows, two gold teeth, and would text people things like 'what it do' happy to say I would've surely puked at current coastal-grandma-me shot.'

Rufus started dated Vivian in early 2019 and the couple marked their one-year anniversary by sharing a sunset image of them hugging each other on the beach.

Vivian wrote: 'One year of being in love has really taken my personality hostage. Pray for its safe return.'

It appears that Rufus first wooed his younger girlfriend, who is reportedly 29 years his junior, by taking her to picturesque Wales, with the couple spending many romantic breaks together exploring the Pembrokeshire Coast.

Rufus' first wife was his long-term girlfriend, Australian fashion journalist Yasmin Abdallah, 47.

Yasmin met Rufus in Australia aged 19, and the couple married when Yasmin was 23 in 1999. They divorced in 2000.

Yasmin previously spoke about their short-lived marriage in an interview with Elle.

She met Rufus in a bar in Australia and after several months of dating, they relocated to the UK and mixed with the Primrose Hill set.

'I don't know if I was accepted to be honest some weird, shaved-head Aussie-Lebanese girl who wasn't quite part of the mix,' she said.

Rufus attended the premiere of Old in New York with his love in 2021

It appears Rufus popped the question during a romantic getaway in Rome as Vivian shared a snap of herself in the city a day prior to their exciting announcement

In 2021 the couple put on a loved-up display at the premiere of Old in New York and Rufus sometimes features in Vivian's Instagram posts (pictured together on his birthday in 2021)

His first wife was his long-term girlfriend, Australian fashion journalist Yasmin Abdallah. They were married in 1999 and divorced in 2000 (pictured in 1997)

Rufus married second wife, scriptwriter and producer Amy Gardner, in 2004 and they sadly divorced in 2006 (pictured with Amy in 2001)

'I ended up making some wrong decisions, wrong business decisions, and I ended up losing the store, which was devastating for me. Rufus and I were no longer together, and that was quite traumatic. I was broke. It was a time of big loss. But it was also a time of great healing, when I went on  dare I say it  a spiritual journey.'

The actor married his second wife, scriptwriter and producer Amy Gardner, in 2004. They sadly divorced in 2006.

They are parents to a son, William Douglas. Amy went on to marry film producer Will Ricker.

Rufus previously said both Amy and his son William would visit him on set. He told The Telegraph: 'They would come and have lunch with me every day, and I would go home to them at night. I guess it was a bit like having a regular job in that it felt very stable.'

Rufus also has a daughter called Lola, 10, from his relationship with Ami Komai.

Rufus previously said of his love life in an interview with the Mail: 'It's always been important to be in a relationship when I'm in one, but I don't actively look for one.

'I've gone through long times without being with someone, but that's not happened for a while.'

New role: Rufus (left) will reportedly wear facial prosthetics for his role as Prince Andrew (right) in a new adaptation of Newsnight's bombshell interview with the Duke

Rufus said previously he loved his heartthrob status following his stint as brooding Lord Melbourne in ITV's smash hit series Victoria (pictured with Jenna Coleman in 2016)

And it's a busy time for the actor, who is set to star as Prince Andrew in a new adaptation of Newsnight's bombshell interview with the Duke.

But the heartthrob will reportedly wear facial prosthetics to make him look 'less handsome' for his role in the show, which will depict the story behind Newsnight's interview with Andrew.

In the adaptation, which will be titled Scoop, Gillian Anderson will portray Emily Maitlis, who grilled Andrew in the 2019 interview over his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The film will be based on the book Scoops: Behind The Scenes of the BBC's Most Shocking Interviews, former BBC producer Sam's account of how she gained access to Andrew for the infamous interview, which aired in November 2019.

The role couldn't be further from the brooding Lord Melbourne in ITV's smash hit series Victoria.

The actor said on This Morning he had no idea how popular his portrayal of the British PM would be in the series which starred Jenna Coleman as Melbourne's monarch.

'I was in America when it came out, I talked to Jenna to see what was going on, it took me by surprise,' he explained.

'At my age it's quite nice to be objectified! Having complained about it for years I was like 'thank you very much!''
Rufus Sewell's fiancee Vivian Benitez poked fun at their age gap, one day after announcing their engagement.

The actress celebrated her 27th birthday during a romantic trip in Rome, Italy with partner Rufus, 56.

She donned a blue jumper and beige trousers while holding a glass of wine in a mirror selfie.

Alongside the snap, Vivian wrote on Instagram: 'Please pass on to anyone worried about our age difference, that its ok now- I turned 27 this morning'

Rufus and Vivian appeared happier than ever when they announced their engagement on Tuesday.

Rufus Sewell's fiance Vivian Benitez poked fun at their age gap as she celebrated her 27th birthday, one day after announcing their engagement

Alongside the snap, Vivian wrote on Instagram: 'Please pass on to anyone worried about our age difference, that its ok now- I turned 27 this morning'

The actor, who played love rat Jasper in festive movie The Holiday, popped the question to the American actress, who is 30 years his junior. This will be the third time Rufus has tied the knot.

Vivian - who has starred in Arsenal, Criminal Minds and Sky Dancers Grown Up - shared an image of the pair of them cuddling up on social media, as well as the beautiful diamond ring Rufus gave her.

She wrote in the caption: 'Til death, (or him continuing to walk on bathmats with his outside shoes) do us part.'

It appears Rufus popped the question during a romantic getaway in Rome as Vivian shared a snap of herself in the city a day prior to their exciting announcement.

A host of Vivian's pals took to the comment section of the engagement post to share their congratulations.

A family member wrote: 'You are soooo good together. this makes my heart sing, We have a wedding to plan!'

Others typed: 'Oh my goodness!! The best couple. Congratulations you two, so much love to you both!' and 'I am so excited!!!!! YAY!!'.

Rufus and Vivian appeared happier than ever when they announced their engagement on Tuesday

She shared an image of the beautiful diamond ring Rufus gave her

Rufus famously played Kate Winslet's onscreen love interest in The Holiday - but his character turned out to be something of a love rat

The couple keep their relationship relatively private but have made some red carpet appearances over the years together.

In 2021 they put on a loved-up display at the premiere of Old in New York and Rufus sometimes features in Vivian's Instagram posts.

Rufus' first wife was his long-term girlfriend, Australian fashion journalist Yasmin Abdallah, 47.

Yasmin met Rufus in Australia aged 19, and the couple married when Yasmin was 23 in 1999. They divorced in 2000.

Yasmin previously spoke about their short-lived marriage in an interview with Elle .

She met Rufus in a bar in Australia and after several months of dating, they relocated to the UK and mixed with the Primrose Hill set.

'I dont know if I was accepted to be honest some weird, shaved-head Aussie-Lebanese girl who wasnt quite part of the mix,' she said.

'I ended up making some wrong decisions, wrong business decisions, and I ended up losing the store, which was devastating for me. Rufus and I were no longer together, and that was quite traumatic. I was broke. It was a time of big loss. But it was also a time of great healing, when I went on  dare I say it  a spiritual journey.'

The actor married his second wife, scriptwriter and producer Amy Gardner, in 2004. They sadly divorced in 2006.

They are parents to a son, William Douglas. Amy went on to marry film producer Will Ricker.

Rufus attended the premiere of Old in New York with his love in 2021

It appears Rufus popped the question during a romantic getaway in Rome as Vivian shared a snap of herself in the city a day prior to their exciting announcement

Vivian also shared their romantic beach snap on her Instagram page back in 2021

Rufus previously said both Amy and his son William would visit him on set. He told The Telegraph: 'They would come and have lunch with me every day, and I would go home to them at night. I guess it was a bit like having a regular job in that it felt very stable.'

Rufus also has a daughter called Lola, 10, from his relationship with Ami Komai.

Rufus previously said of his love life in an interview with the Mail: 'It's always been important to be in a relationship when I'm in one, but I don't actively look for one.

'I've gone through long times without being with someone, but that's not happened for a while.'

And it's a busy time for the actor, who is set to star as Prince Andrew in a new adaptation of Newsnight's bombshell interview with the Duke.

But the heartthrob will reportedly wear facial prosthetics to make him look 'less handsome' for his role in the show, which will depict the story behind Newsnight's interview with Andrew.

In the adaptation, which will be titled Scoop, Gillian Anderson will portray Emily Maitlis, who grilled Andrew in the 2019 interview over his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The film will be based on the book Scoops: Behind The Scenes of the BBC's Most Shocking Interviews, former BBC producer Sam's account of how she gained access to Andrew for the infamous interview, which aired in November 2019.

His first wife was his long-term girlfriend, Australian fashion journalist Yasmin Abdallah. They were married in 1999 and divorced in 2000 (pictured in 1997)

Rufus married second wife, scriptwriter and producer Amy Gardner, in 2004 and they sadly divorced in 2006 (pictured with Amy in 2001)

The role couldn't be further from the brooding Lord Melbourne in ITV's smash hit series Victoria.

The actor said on This Morning he had no idea how popular his portrayal of the British PM would be in the series which starred Jenna Coleman as Melbourne's monarch.

'I was in America when it came out, I talked to Jenna to see what was going on, it took me by surprise,' he explained.

'At my age it's quite nice to be objectified! Having complained about it for years I was like "thank you very much!"'
Pete Wicks has hit the town with Nick Pickard's girlfriend Sarah Corrin ahead of another I'm A Celebrity elimination on Wednesday night.

The TOWIE star, 35, has jetted Down Under to support his best pal Sam Thompson and to be there to greet him on the famous bridge.

Pete has been living it up during his stay in Australia and has been spotted on many a night out.

He joined Sarah for a night out in Surfer's Paradise on the Gold Coast, alongside Danielle Harold's parents - after she appeared in the bottom two on Tuesday night.

Pete was typically ruggedly handsome in a low-buttoned shirt, accessorising with gold rings.

Pete Wicks has hit the town with Nick Pickard 's girlfriend Sarah Corrin (second left) ahead of another I'm A Celebrity elimination on Wednesday night

Pete joined Sarah for a night out in Surfer's Paradise on the Gold Coast, looking ruggedly handsome as usual

Meanwhile Sarah, 39, looked very stylish in a zebra-print co-ord as she laughed with the reality star.

It comes after Fred Sirieix was shockingly evicted from the jungle on Tuesday night - and as the camp prepares for yet another exit on Wednesday.

They were also joined by Danielle Harold's Mum Lisa Marie Carter and stepdad David Murray after she was in the bottom two.

Last week Pete once again hit the town with Sarah as the pair enjoyed a boozy night out together, downing shots and partying until 3am.

The TOWIE star looked typically stylish in a white shirt and black jeans, while accessorising with silver chains.

Meanwhile, Sarah put on a leggy display in a black mini skirt and plunging crop top, teamed with sliders.

She was the first of the celebrities' friends and families to touch down in Australia ahead of eliminations starting.

She has been dating Nick for several years and admitted: 'It's nice people get to see the Nick part of him and not just Tony. But you haven't seen all of him yet. I've wanted him to do it for years.'

Pete has been living it up in Australia - and this time was also joined by Danielle's parents for the night out

Pete also enjoyed a boozy night out with Sarah in a Brisbane night club on Saturday

Nick, 48, is the longest-running soap actor on Hollyoaks - playing Tony Hutchinson for 28 years.

The couple live together in Liverpool but mainly stay out of the public eye.

Pete is set to be the one who greets Sam, 31, at the end of the bridge when he leaves camp instead of the Made In Chelsea star's girlfriend Zara McDermott.

While some celebs will have their mother, father and partners waiting for them at the end of the bridge, Sam, 31, has chosen to have just his best friend fly to Australia.

Sam turned down the opportunity for his girlfriend Zara, 26, to greet him once he escapes the jungle despite her being voted off Strictly Come Dancing in time to make the flight.

Zara told Fleur East on the Hits Radio Breakfast Show: 'When I left Strictly I was like 'Shall I pack my case?' and he went "Oh no it's already been arranged Pete is coming".'

She continued: 'When I suggested maybe Pete and I could both go, he said, 'No, just Pete!' Maybe I can get Pete to take a cardboard cut-out of me  But you know what it's fine, absolutely fine.

'I've got all the time in the world to live with him and see him. If he wants Pete at the end of that bridge I respect and appreciate that - also I can't wait to see that hug!'

Pete has touched down in Australia to support his bestie Sam Thompson during his jungle stint

Sarah said: 'It's nice people get to see the Nick part of him and not just Tony. But you haven't seen all of him yet. I've wanted him to do it for years' (pictured together in 2022)

Zara was the first former Love Island star to compete on Strictly Come Dancing , and she was eliminated in week six.

Her early elimination meant she was effectively at a loose end. At the same time, Sam, who had gambled on her still being in the competition, jetted off to Australia for his own reality TV adventure.

Speaking to breakfast hosts Fleur East and James Barr, he said: 'When they asked [me to go into the jungle] I did think, if Zara was still on Strictly would I be a bad boyfriend if I went - but then decided I had to!'

This decision made him question whether he would even have a girlfriend by the end of the three-week competition.

He said: 'As it turns out she's tapping out of Strictly just as I'm tapping in.

'But because I thought she would still be doing Strictly, Pete's [Wicks] coming with me!' he admitted.

'I don't know if I'm going to have a girlfriend at the end of it'
The tour made up 'a three-part summer of feminine extravaganza' along with Beyonce's Renaissance tour and the Barbie movie, according to Swift

The five time Grammy award winner said her success is evidence 'female ideas are becoming more lucrative'

Taylor Swift's $1 billion Eras tour and movie are challenging the patriarchy by reshaping the male-dominated economy, according to the artist.

The Cruel Summer hitmaker said her massive success - thanks to her largely female audience - will lead to more women-made art.

Experts have already identified the impact of 'Swiftonomics' on the economy, wiht a massive boom seen in towns where the star has played.

Swift pointed to the popularity of her shows, the Barbie movie and Beyonce's Renaissance tour this summer as evidence of a shift in what is commercially successful, and suggested this could help tip the power balance.

Taylor Swift said her $1 billion Eras tour and concert movie are reshaping the male dominated economy

The five time Grammy award winner said her success is evidence 'female ideas are becoming more lucrative'

'What has existed since the dawn of time? A patriarchal society,' she told Time magazine.

'What fuels a patriarchal society? Money, flow of revenue, the economy. So actually, if we're going to look at this in the most cynical way possible, feminine ideas becoming lucrative means that more female art will get made. It's extremely heartening.'

Swift shared an anecdote about how she was able to fuel her creativity thanks to country star Kenny Chesney after he gave her a check with 'more money than I have ever seen'.

The then 17-year-old rising star was due to perform with the country icon on his tour, but had to pull out as he was being sponsored by a beer company and she was a minor.

She explained how Chesney's generosity meant she was able to 'fuel her dreams', an act which has now turned her into one of the most successful acts of the 21st century.

'It was for more money than I'd ever seen in my life,' she said. 'I was able to pay my band bonuses. I was able to pay for my tour buses. I was able to fuel my dreams.'

Swift made the comments as part of an interview after topping Time's Person of the Year.

The pop star said her success while catering to a largely female audience is evidence of a challenge to the patriarchy

Her sellout Eras tour led to mini economic booms in the cities where she visited and has led to world leaders begging her to play their countries

She became only the sixth woman to win the title as an individual since 1927.

Her success comes despite the fact women have been taught things they stereotypically gravitate towards such as, 'Girlhood, feelings, love, breakups, analyzing those feelings, talking about them nonstop, glitter, sequins' are traditionally 'more frivolous' than masculine pursuits, according to the star.

But Swift's tour, which she said was part of 'a three-part summer of feminine extravaganza' along with Greta Gerwig's Barbie and Beyonce, challenges this idea.

The average Eras Tour attendee spent around $1,300 on tickets, travel and accommodation for her shows, according to estimates.

And when the US leg of her tour kicked off in Glendale, Arizona, businesses saw a bigger boom in revenue than when the 2023 Super Bowl came to town.

Nearly 2.4 million tickets were snapped up on the first day of pre-sale for the Eras tour, the most amount sold in a single day.

When mainstream sales opened Ticketmaster crashed under the record breaking demand, with the debacle leading to a Senate hearing over the company's potential monopoly on the industry.

Swift recalled how country star Kenny Chesney helped 'fuel her dreams' by cutting her check after she was forced to drop out of his shows as a support act. The then 17-year-old was given more 'money than I had ever seen' which she put towards touring costs

And for so-called Swifties who missed out first time, resale tickers sold for paid as much as $42,000.

Fans also spent around $200 on merchandise and outfits to wear to the shows, contributing to the economic boom.

World leaders begged the five-time Grammy winner to stop in their country after learning of the boost to the economy.

Her stratospheric rise has filtered into almost every aspect of pop culture and even academia, with at least 10 college classes devoted to her - including one at Harvard.
Kyle Richards was spotted at the Maren Morris concert in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, 54, looked to be in high spirits at the music star's show, which took place at the famed Troubadour club in the tony town of West Hollywood.

Rocking a chic ensemble for the event, the Halloween actress - who broke down in tears and referred to her split from Mauricio Umansky as a 'divorce' last month - arrived solo to the venue.

Her stunning wardrobe included a plunging black top, matching black leather slacks and a tuxedo jacket, which she paired with hot pink handbag.

Kyle's appearance at Maren's concert comes after the Grammy nominee admitted the pair have been supporting each other during their respective splits, as Maren called it quits with her husband of five years, Ryan Hurd, last month.

Kyle Richards was spotted at the Maren Morris concert in Los Angeles on Tuesday night amid her split from husband Mauricio Umansky

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, 54, looked to be in high spirits at the music star's show, which took place at the famed Troubadour club in the tony town of West Hollywood

'I've been texting with Kyle,' Maren revealed on Watch What Happens Live in November. 'I feel for her, for sure. I can't even imagine that long of a relationship, but yeah, she's obviously going through something and we're watching it through this lens of public whatever.

'But I think she's a human being that's going through a tough thing.'

When asked by Andy Cohen if she knows Morgan Wade - who has been the subject of romance rumors with Kyle - Maren replied, 'I do, yeah! I know Morgan. She's great.'

Kyle's concert outing also comes after she said that she can sympathize with confusion over the current status of her relationship with Mauricio as she revealed they have a 'peaceful' existence at home with their daughters - and even enjoy movie nights.

'We are good friends and we love each other, so we are very fortunate in that aspect,' she told DailyMail.com exclusively.

'I think that's why people are confused and sometimes question if it is even true that we're separated. I even have a hard time believing that we are as well, so I can understand.'

She continued: 'But we're lucky in a sense, we don't argue, and we can have a peaceful environment in our home and all give each other that space.

'So I'm just trying to keep, we are just trying to make sure our girls are happy, even though three of them are adults and Portia is just 15 and a half.'

Rocking a chic ensemble for the event, the Halloween actress -- who broke down in tears and referred to her split as a 'divorce' last month -- arrived solo to the venue

Kyle's concert outing also comes after she said that she can sympathize with confusion over the current status of her relationship with Mauricio Umansky; seen in 2021

Kyle's appearance at Maren's concert comes after the Grammy nominee admitted the pair have been supporting each other during their respective splits, as Maren called it quits with her husband of five years, Ryan Hurd, last month, seen in June

The Bravo star then emphasized that the wellbeing of their children is their 'biggest concern.'

'When we're all watching movies and hanging out at home, it feels good. We can do this even though we go into this hard time,' she dished at sister Kathy Hilton's DIRECTV-sponsored Christmas party.

Indeed, the estranged couple - who still live together under the same roof - recently spent the recent Thanksgiving holiday together with their children.

When asked by Andy Cohen if she knows Morgan Wade - who has been the subject of romance rumors with Kyle - Maren replied, 'I do, yeah! I know Morgan. She's great'; Morgan and Kyle in July

The intimate family celebration comes as the pair are still yet to lawyer up or take steps that would indicate they are about to divorce.

According to TMZ, should they decide to, the pair would have to figure out how to divide their assets since they don't have a prenuptial agreement in place.

Mauricio, 53, has reportedly acquired a net worth of $100 million, with nearly $5 billion in real estate sales since he first joined the hit reality series.

Meanwhile, Kyle has amassed a reported net worth of $100 million, thanks also in part to her time on RHOBH.
Bam Margera scored his first court-monitored visit with his five-year-old son Phoenix Wolf in nearly a year after celebrating 120 days of sobriety.

His estranged second wife Nikki Boyd's attorney David Glass told TMZ on Wednesday that the 44-year-old Jacka** alum can see his child with a professional supervisor sometime around Christmas in Los Angeles.

Little Phoenix will also celebrate his sixth birthday on December 23, and Bam (born Brandon) is eager to finally give the boy the $5K worth of gifts he bought for him before the legal drama.

On Tuesday, Margera posted a snap of himself with six children captioned: 'It boggles my mind that I have to have court-supervised visits if, and when I am allowed to see my own son, Phoenix the wolf.

'But, I could play with any other of my friends children anytime I want without dealing with this bulls***. Why is our system just so f***ed up?'

Bam Margera scored his first court-monitored visit with his five-year-old son Phoenix Wolf in nearly a year after celebrating 120 days of sobriety (pictured Tuesday)

His estranged second wife Nikki Boyd's (L, pictured in 2021) attorney David Glass told TMZ on Wednesday that the 44-year-old Jacka** alum can see his child with a professional supervisor sometime around Christmas in Los Angeles

The former pro skateboarder - who just got a supportive shout-out from Mark Wahlberg - revealed on October 27 that it had been 200 days since he saw Phoenix, whom he loves 'more than anything.'

'It's been a legal matter with David Glass-hole, a never-ending money pit,' Bam - who boasts 8.2M social media followers - lamented.

'I just want Nikki to be happy and it's time for us to both grow up.'

The 39-year-old former PennHurst Asylum staffer filed for legal separation from Margera the day after Valentine's Day, but lists their separation date as September 2021 after nearly eight years of marriage.

The Pennsylvania native seems to be in denial of his August 9 arrest in the parking lot of the Radnor Hotel in Wayne, PA for public intoxication and disorderly conduct.

Bam was previously released from 5150 psychiatric hold on June 7 after 72 hours for being 'a danger to himself and others.'

Margera had publicly threatened to 'smoke crack until he died' on June 1 if he didn't get to see Phoenix, whom he reportedly FaceTimes with four times a week.

The stunt performer - who commands $100 on Cameo - will be 'signing s***, saying what up, and taking photos' with fans attending horror/pop Culture convention Spookala on December 17 from 11am-5pm in Ocala, FL.

Last year, Bam privately settled his wrongful termination lawsuit against the Jacka** creators over his firing (due to testing positive for Adderall) from the the successful fourth film, Jacka** Forever.

Margera previously appeared in MTV's Jacka**, Jacka**: The Movie, Jacka** Number Two, Jacka** 2.5, Jacka** 3D and Jacka** 3.5.

Little Phoenix will also celebrate his sixth birthday on December 23, and Bam is eager to finally give the boy the $5K worth of gifts he bought for him before the legal drama (pictured January 29)

On Tuesday, Margera posted a snap of himself with six children captioned: 'It boggles my mind that I have to have court-supervised visits if, and when I am allowed to see my own son, Phoenix the wolf. But, I could play with any other of my friends children anytime I want without dealing with this bulls***. Why is our system just so f***ed up?'

The former pro skateboarder - who just got a supportive shout-out from Mark Wahlberg - revealed on October 27 that it had been 200 days since he saw Phoenix, whom he loves 'more than anything'

Bam - who boasts 8.2M social media followers - lamented: 'It's been a legal matter with David Glass-hole, a never-ending money pit...I just want Nikki to be happy and it's time for us to both grow up'

The 39-year-old former PennHurst Asylum staffer (R, pictured in 2022) filed for legal separation from Margera the day after Valentine's Day, but lists their separation date as September 2021 after nearly eight years of marriage

The Pennsylvania native seems to be in denial of his August 9 arrest for public intoxication and disorderly conduct, and being put in 5150 psychiatric hold in June after threatening to 'smoke crack until he died' if he didn't get to see Phoenix
Anne Hathaway and Emily Blunt can't believe they've known each other for 18 years after first meeting on the set of Devil Wears Prada.

The Hollywood actresses reunited for the Actors on Actors issue of Variety and realized it had been nearly two decades since they they lit up the screen playing arch enemy assistants Andrea and Emily, respectively, in the iconic 2006 comedy that catapulted them into megastardom.

'You are one of the people Ive known longest. Weve known each other for 18 years,' Blunt incredulously told Hathaway, to which she replied, 'What? Our relationship is the age of an adult.'

Blunt hilariously added, 'Thats drinking age in England,' as Hathaway quipped, 'We are so drunk in England right now.'

The stars then took a walk down memory lane to reveal the details of their very first interaction before the cameras rolled on the $325 million blockbuster.

Anne Hathaway and Emily Blunt reunited for the Actors on Actors issue of Variety

The Hollywood actresses revealed how they met on the set of 2006's Devil Wears Prada

Hathaway and Blunt played arch enemy assistants Andrea and Emily, respectively, in the iconic comedy that catapulted them to megastardom.

'Did we meet before the table read?' Blunt asked as she hilariously noted her memory is not her greatest asset.

'This is so embarrassing because I remember every second of the first time I met you,' Hathaway replied, before joking, 'Im so much more into you than you are into me. Its fine. Its fine.'

She continued: 'I was hearing that your name came up, and they said, Its this amazing girl out of England and shes so funny. And I remember walking into the room and turning and meeting you. In my head  instant thought  I was like, What a movie star!

'You were shedding stardust.' Hathaway continued. 'Then we went for coffee. I took you for a walk around where I live [in New York]'

Blunt responded: 'I was so green coming into that situation. And you were like the warmest embrace. Even though you were a colossal movie star at that time, you treated me like a complete equal.'

The British beauty, 40, went on to say that the pair had a 'joy bomb' making the film, although neither actress could foresee it becoming a huge part of pop culture.

'Its quoted to me every week,' Blunt added. 'It will be the movie that changed my life.'

The David Frankel-directed film was based on Lauren Weisberger's 2003 novel of the same name and revolves around the character Andy Sachs (played by Hathaway), a recent college graduate aspiring to be a journalist.

'You are one of the people Ive known longest. Weve known each other for 18 years,' Blunt incredulously told Hathaway, to which she replied, 'What? Our relationship is the age of an adult'

'This is so embarrassing because I remember every second of the first time I met you,' Hathaway replied, before joking, 'Im so much more into you than you are into me. Its fine. Its fine'

She lands a job as the assistant to the powerful Miranda Priestly (played by Meryl Streep), the editor-in-chief of the prestigious fashion magazine Runway, who also employs aloof lead assistant Emily Charlton (Blunt).

During their reunion for Variety, Hathaway and Blunt had a blast reciting iconic quotes from the movie and revealed that Streep and Stanley Tucci (who played art director Nigel Kipling) would often improvise their lines.

They also dished on the fun they had on set, which they said was often lost on Streep as she stayed in character as the demanding boss.

'You know, I think [Meryl] always wanted to join in on the fun with us. She kept herself so in character,' Hathaway said.

'Do you know shes never done Method acting since?' Blunt chimed in.

The stars dished on the fun they had on set, which they said was often lost on Streep as she stayed in character as the demanding boss

'Do you know shes never done Method acting since?' Blunt said of Streep

'She said it made her so miserable on this one, because we were all having a party on the other side of the set. And she was like, I wont do this again.'

'She said it made her so miserable on this one, because we were all having a party on the other side of the set. And she was like, I wont do this again.'

The actresses also dished on the scene where Hathaway's character is complaining about her boss to her boyfriend (played by Adrian Grenier).

'Fun fact: I am wearing my cousins headband in that scene,' Hathaway revealed.

'Do you know what I loved about that headband? Your little bangs would stick out. It was just so cute. It was just so nerdy. And I wanted that grilled cheese so badly,' Blunt hilariously added.

Read about Hathaway's take on a possible sequel to Devil Wears Prada here.
Chloe Madeley enjoyed a festive family trip to the VIP launch of Christmas at Kenwood in London on Wednesday.

The fitness influencer, 36, was joined by parents Richard and Judy Finnigan as well as brother Jack and nephew Kit, four.

Chloe, who announced her split from husband James Haskell in October, brought along their daughter Bodhi, 16 months, for the family get-together.

Richard, 67, and Judy, 75, beamed as they posed for photo with their children and grandchildren.

Chloe wrapped up in a leather coat with a shearling trim and opted for comfort with black leggings and wellington boots.

Chloe Madeley enjoyed a festive family trip to the VIP launch of Christmas at Kenwood in London on Wednesday

Chloe wrapped up in a leather coat with a shearling trim and opted for comfort with black leggings and wellington boots

It comes after the reality star was spotted having dinner with ex James Haskell and their daughter Bodhi, 16 months, in London the day before

The family kept warm with hot drinks as they mingled with a host of other stars -including Dermot O'Leary and his wife Dee, Myleene Klass and EastEnders actress Louisa Lytton - who turned up to the light trail event.

Chloe also posed for a snap with her friend Lou Teasdale.

Richard and Judy have five grandchildren. Jack, 37, welcomed baby daughter, Wren, with his wife Issy Wilson in October.

The couple are also grandparents to Ivy and Eden, who are the daughters of one of Judy's sons from her first marriage to David Henshaw.

The family outing comes after Chloe was spotted having dinner with estranged husband James and their daughter Bodhi in London on Tuesday.

The former rugby player, 38, was seen sipping on a pint of beer while reality star Chloe browsed on her phone.

A source told The Sun: 'Chloe and James arent getting back together. They were out for a friendly lunch while they still work out how to co-parent.

'Just because they arent together, it doesnt mean they wont stay friendly.'

MailOnline has contacted representatives for both Chloe and James for comment.

The fitness influencer, 36, was joined by parents Richard and Judy Finnigan. The family kept warm with hot drinks as they mingled with a host of other stars

Chloe's brother Jack and nephew Kit, four, also arrived for the light trail launch

Jack, 37, was seen after welcoming a baby daughter, Wren, with his wife Issy Wilson in October

Chloe posed for a snap with her friend Lou Teasdale

The two larked around before headed on the trail

Chloe and James confirmed their separation was amicable and would remain so for the sake of daughter Bodhi

The couple released a joint statement in October after appearing in public without their wedding rings

The couple, who married in 2018, first fuelled speculation about their split after Chloe emerged without her wedding ring as she partied with friends - shortly after James was pictured chatting to a mystery blonde outside a London nightspot.

Chloe confirmed she had split from her husband James in a joint statement released in October.

In a joint update shared to Instagram, the couple who had starred in their own ITV reality show Chloe Madeley: A Family Affair this year, announced: 'Chloe and I mutually decided separate at the end of September, 2023.

'We had not planned on releasing a statement at this time - certainly not while the television show was airing - but constant speculation about our marriage has, unfortunately, forced our hand.'

She added: 'Beyond this statement, we will not be speaking about this matter publicly, and we would request privacy at this time.

'Our sole focus now is our beautiful daughter. We shall continue to co-parent with nothing but love.'

Sharing his own statement to Instagram, James added: 'It's with a lot of sadness I write this post, but unfortunately, in the world we live in, it has to be done.

'My priority is my daughters and Chloes happiness and security. For that reason, I won't be commenting any further.'

Last month, Chloe spoke publicly for the first time about her separation, with the television personality reflecting on the end of their five-year marriage after the subject was broached by a fan on social media.

She later opened up further about the split and told how she was finally feeling 'happy again' after a difficult time.

Dermot O'Leary and his wife Dee got into the festive spirit as they attended the VIP launch

Loose Women star Linda Robson was also in attendance

Nicole Appleton rocked a Burberry scarf as she turned up with husband Stephen Haines

EastEnders actress Louisa Lytton (left) and Myleene Klass (right) wrapped up warm for the festive light trail

Lauren Laverne joined Myleene for a photo

Fay Ripley beamed as she headed out for a walk to see the illuminated lights

British violinist Linzi Stoppard looked incredible in a white furry coat as she posed up a storm

Chris Moyles and his girlfriend Tiffany Austin attended the event
Ed Sheeran supported his friend James Blunt at the UK premiere of James Blunt: One Brit Wonder at the Picturehouse Central in London on Wednesday night.

The Perfect hitmaker, 32, looked in good spirits as he posed with arm around the musician, 49.

Ed cut a casual figure in a black jacket and white T-shirt as he made a rare public appearance at the event.

He completed his look with dark trousers and pink trainers as he stood for snaps with James as well as his wife Sofia, 40.

James' new documentary film, One Brit Wonder follows the soldier-turned-music star on his 2022 Greatest Hit Tour, allowing viewers access all areas of the run of shows in Europe.

Ed Sheeran supported his friend James Blunt at the UK premiere of James Blunt: One Brit Wonder at the Picturehouse Central in London on Wednesday night.

Ed cut a casual figure in a black jacket and white T-shirt as he made a rare public appearance at the event

The film will also look back into the artist's backstory, from witnessing the Kosovo War, recording the biggest-selling album of the noughties and the iconic tweeting he is now known for.

Also at the event were Princess Beatrice and her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi who were enjoying a night out.

It comes after Ed surprised fans as he jumped up on stage and performed an impromptu duet with James at Princess Eugenie's anti-slavery charity gala last Wednesday.

The star-studded evening saw a host of royalty and famous faces gather at Battersea Arts Centre in London for The Anti Slavery Collective's inaugural Winter Gala.

Ed asked James five minutes before his set if he could join him in singing his biggest hit You're Beautiful as he knows his debut album Back To Bedlam off by heart.

Introducing himself, Ed said: 'So we've never practised this, never played it. James is going on the strength that I know Back to Bedlam back to front.'

James and Ed then began to share the lyrics and harmonise during the impressive performance.

A source told MailOnline: 'Ed asked James five minutes before he went on and announced James on stage saying Back To Bedlam was an album he knew back to back.

The Perfect hitmaker, 32, looked in good spirits as he posed with arm around the beaming musician, 49

James' new documentary film, One Brit Wonder follows the soldier-turned-music star on his 2022 Greatest Hit Tour, allowing viewers access all areas of the run of shows in Europe

The film will also look back into the artist's backstory, from witnessing the Kosovo War, recording the biggest-selling album of the noughties and the iconic tweeting he is now known for

He completed his look with dark trousers and pink trainers as he stood for snaps with James as well as his wife Sofia, 40

Sofia looked smart in a black suit and wore pointy studded heels as she posed with the two lads

Also at the event were Princess Beatrice and her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi who were enjoying a night out

On the same night he attended the Atlantic Records 75th Anniversary Party at Studio Spaces

He had a busy night at the two event

Ed Howard, Ed Sheeran, CEO of Recorded Music for Warner Music Group Max Lousada and Tony Harlow

'And then they did the song from start to finish together.'

The insider said the pair headed off to celebrity hotspot Chiltern Firehouse to continue their night.

Speaking ahead of the event Princess Eugenie, 33, praised Ed for his involvement as she said: 'It's the most insane thing. Ed is a game changer and an entertainer of a generation, so I'm absolutely lost of words that he's coming.

'He's also one of the nicest people so I'm truly honoured and very grateful to have him there and help us on The Anti-Slavery Collective's mission.'

Eugenie, the second child of the Duke and Duchess of York, said she had been motivated to set up the charity, which aims to end modern slavery by the humanitarian work of her mother, Sarah Ferguson

'My mum does a lot of charity work and always raised my sister and I to give back,' Princess Eugenie said.

The Royal, who now lives in Portugal with her husband Jack Brooksbank and their two sons, said a trip to Calcutta with her mother and Julia in 2012 had sown the seeds for the Anti-Slavery Collective.

'We went to Calcutta to visit Aloka Mitra, who founded The Women's Interlink Foundation,' she recalled.

'Aloka is an amazing woman who rescued girls from the streets, housed them and taught them how to print on fabrics.

'During that trip to India, Jules and I were so shocked by what we'd discovered about modern slavery, when we returned to the UK we learned as much about it as we could, met with anyone who would listen to us, visited safe houses and talked to survivors.'

The charity's mission is to raise awareness of the 50million people around the globe who are currently trapped in modern slavery.

Princess Beatrice looked chic in a navy knitted jumper which she teamed with a silk skirt and boots

It comes after Ed surprised fans as he jumped up on stage and performed an impromptu duet with James at Princess Eugenie 's anti-slavery charity gala last Wednesday

James looked cool in a grey T-shirt and black leather jacket as he posed with his wife and the royals

Ed looked in great spirits at the event as he made the rare public appearance to support his friend

(L to R) Daisy Blount, Charles Blount, James Blunt, Jane Blount and Sofia Blunt attend the premiere

Producer Ed Barratt, James Blunt and Julian Bird attended the premiere and posed for snaps together

James Blunt and Chris Atkins attend the premiere screening of James Blunt: One Brit Wonder at Picturehouse Central

The royal couple beamed for snaps together

The happy couple took a moment to pose with each other at the premiere

(L to R) Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, Princess Beatrice of York, James Blunt, Sofia Blunt and Gabriela Peacock

He teamed his leather jacket with dark jeans for the night out

James was seen carrying two of his books and a beer as he departed for the night

James wrapped up in a khaki coat while his wife departed in an eye catching fur leopard print jacket

Ed seemed in high spirits as he exited following the screening

The royals were all smiles as they headed home

'I was 21 when I first learned about modern slavery. I don't want people to get to the same age without being educated about the realities,' the Royal said.

Ed had a notorious encounter with Princess Eugenie's sister, Princess Beatrice, who accidentally sliced his cheek with a ceremonial sword while she was jokingly 'knighting' James Blunt at a dinner party in 2016.

The musician always refused to name the Royal but his manager, Stuart Camp, eventually confirmed it was the Princess who had wielded the sword and called her an 'idiot'.

One Brit Wonder will land in cinemas on Wednesday December 6 and will be followed by a live concert. Tickets from jamesblunt.film.
Celebrities paid emotional tributes to television legend Norman Lear following his death aged 101 on Tuesday.

Billy Crystal, 75, shared a poignant throwback snap holding Lear's hand as he lauded his talent and sense of humor.

He wrote: 'We have lost a giant... a man of great humor and dignity. What an amazing life that has given so much to us all.

'He used laughter as a way to look at ourselves. A blessing to have been his friend for almost 50 yrs. '

Actor Rob Reiner, 76, who appeared in Lear's show All In The Family, wrote: 'I loved Norman Lear with all my heart. He was my second father. Sending my love to Lyn and the whole Lear family.'

Celebrities paid emotional tributes to television legend Norman Lear following his death aged 101 on Tuesday - Billy Crystal said it was a 'blessing' to be Lear's friend

Norman Lear, seen here in 2019, died at his home in Los Angeles of natural causes on Tuesday, with a private service for close family to be held in the coming days

Jimmy Kimmel, 56, wrote: 'It is obviously silly to want more time with a person who outlived a whole century but losing Norman Lear, even at 101 years old, feels unfair.

'His bravery, integrity and unmatched moral compass were equaled by his kindness, empathy, and wit. Norman was very proud of the fact that the so-called Reverend Jerry Falwell dubbed him The number one enemy of the American family. The opposite was true.

'More than anyone before him, Norman used situation comedy to shine a light on prejudice, intolerance, and inequality. He created families that mirrored ours, showing us a world in which Archie Bunker and Michael Stivic could learn to not only co-exist, but to love one another.

'As a young man, Technical Sergeant Lear flew 52 combat missions over Nazi Germany. He continued to fight for freedom all the way to the end of his life on earth. Even at 101, Norman cared as much about the future, our children, and planet as anyone I have ever known.

'He was a great American, a hero in every way and so funny, smart, and such a lovely man you almost couldnt believe it.

'The privilege of working alongside Norman and the opportunity he gave me and my wife to get to know him and his beautiful family has been among the great honors and pleasures of my life. We were all very lucky to have him. '

Quinta Brunson, 33, wrote: 'My Goat. What a life. Rest well, Norman Lear.'

Alec Baldwin, 65, honored his longtime friend and mentor, writing: 'Although Normans passing was looming for anyone aged 100, his loss is incalculable.

Actor Rob Reiner, 76, who appeared in Lear's show All In The Family, wrote: 'I loved Norman Lear with all my heart. He was my second father. Sending my love to Lyn and the whole Lear family'

Michael Douglas shared a sweet snap with Lear and paid tribute

Alec Baldwin , 65, honored his longtime friend and mentor, writing: 'Although Normans passing was looming for anyone aged 100, his loss is incalculable.

'With a legendary brilliance in his creative field, a dogged pursuit of truth and human rights in his political advocacy, and a warmth, wit and generosity to all who served with him on behalf of @peoplefor_, this is the passing of a true giant in American life.

'Norman was a real mentor to me which I will never forget. My condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. My love to Lynn.

Meanwhile, GLAAD President & CEO, Sarah Kate Ellis said in a statement: 'Norman Lear was a true pioneer whose legacy will forever be connected to including LGBTQ characters on television when no one else would.'

'With storylines on "All in the Family," "Maude," "The Jeffersons," the new "One Day at a Time," and the upcoming "Clean Slate" starring Laverne Cox, Lear humanized the LGBTQ community for the millions of people who tuned in to watch his shows. Norman Lear made it a priority to champion LGBTQ creators and he pushed Hollywood to follow in his groundbreaking footsteps.'

Henry Winkler also praised Norman during an appearance on TMZ Live on Wednesday, recalling his ability to make people laugh.

'It's very hard to form language around someone who had accomplished so much with such grace, such intelligence, and such fun,' Winkler said. 'He made so many people for so long laugh.'

Winkler recounted a story about Norman that demonstrated his forward-thinking vision. At his birthday, Norman was asked, '"So how does it feel to be 101?" He said, "I don't know, not as good as gonna be 102!" His vision was always forward.'

'Art is to illuminate life,' Winkler also said. 'It is to put a mirror up so that all of us who are watching can see who we are or where we are or where we're going and he would do that with a laugh. He would push our nose right into the worst parts of ourself while we're laughing.'

The script writer and producer died at his home in Los Angeles of natural causes on Tuesday, with a private service for close family to be held in the coming days, Variety reported.

Lear's family said in a statement: 'Thank you for the moving outpouring of love and support in honor of our wonderful husband, father, and grandfather.

'Norman lived a life of creativity, tenacity, and empathy. He deeply loved our country and spent a lifetime helping to preserve its founding ideals of justice and equality for all.

'Knowing and loving him has been the greatest of gifts. We ask for your understanding as we mourn privately in celebration of this remarkable human being.'

The television producer is seen in his office in Los Angeles on March 29, 1979

Lear's family said he passed away surrounded by loved ones as they told stories and sang songs.

With a career that spanned more than six decades, Lear created or helped develop some of the most loved comedians in American television history.

These included the likes of 'All in the Family, 'Sanford and Son', 'Good Times, and 'The Jeffersons'.

Lear, who won six Emmy awards for his work in television, was known for campaigning for liberal causes, including voting rights, and worked well into his 90s.

Among his milestones was creating the first African American nuclear family regularly appearing on television: the Evans clan on 'Good Times,' beginning in 1974.

Lear injected the sensitive subjects of race, sexuality, class, inequality and politics like the anti-war movement into his work, breaking the sitcom mold and beaming modern visions of family life into millions of US households.

At one point, in the 1970s, Lear had eight shows on the air with an estimated 120 million viewers, Time magazine said.

By drawing material from social themes of the time, Lear's shows made network executives nervous because they had a depth and air of controversy.

Lear and production partner Bud Yorkin put 'All in the Family' on the air in January 1971 and the show would go on to win four Emmys for best comedy in its nine seasons.

In this post to his Twitter, in October, Lear is seen alongside his grandson Noah as he blows on a harmonica

Lear, seen here in 1972, was known for his campaigning for liberal causes, including voting rights, and worked well into his 90s

Former President Bill Clinton is seen here alongside Hillary Clinton awarding Lear with the 1999 National Medal of Arts and Humanities Award

It was based on a British show, 'Til Death Do Us Part,' and gave U.S. television one of its most memorable and controversial characters - Archie Bunker.

Carroll O'Connor portrayed Archie as a crude, loud, blue-collar New Yorker who spouted racist, homophobic and anti-Semitic comments.

He was cast against a scatter-brained wife he called 'Dingbat,' a liberal daughter and an even more liberal son-in-law he referred to as 'Meathead' and played by Rob Reiner.

In a post to his social media, Reiner paid tribute to Lear, saying: 'I loved Norman Lear with all my heart.

'He was my second father. Sending my love to Lyn and the whole Lear family.'

ABC passed on broadcasting 'All in the Family' twice, and CBS was initially reluctant to take it on.

When 'All in Family' was eventually aired it begin with a disclaimer that said: 'The program you are about to see is 'All in the Family.'

'It seeks to throw a humorous spotlight on our frailties, prejudices, and concerns. By making them a source of laughter we hope to show, in a mature fashion, just how absurd they are.'

By the end of 1971, 'All In the Family' was No. 1 in the ratings and Archie Bunker was a pop culture fixture, with President Richard Nixon among his fans

It was the top-rated show on U.S. television for five straight years, according to CBS, and TV Guide ranked it fourth on its list of television's all-time greatest shows.

'The Jeffersons' was another spin-off of 'All in the Family' and featured an upwardly mobile Black couple who moved to Manhattan's glitzy upper eastside neighborhood.

Lear's other hits included 'Sanford and Son' a sitcom about a Black junkyard owner in a Los Angeles neighborhood, and 'Good Times,' a protrayal of a working-class Black family in a Chicago housing project.

Actor Carroll O'Connor, left, portrayed bigoted patriarch Archie Bunker in the provocative TV series 'All In the Family'

Lear, left, and Rob Reiner, seen here in 2006, worked together on Lear's historic 1970s sitcom 'All In the Family,' in which Reiner played Archie Bunker's liberal son-in-law 'Meathead'

Born on July 27, 1922 in New Haven, Connecticut, Norman Milton Lear's most lasting creation was partly based on fact.

Many of the harsh words that came out of Archie Bunker's mouth had first been spoken by Lear's own father, Herman Lear, who went to prison for selling fake bonds, and frequently told his wife to 'stifle' herself and called his son 'the laziest white kid I ever saw.'

'I grew up in a family that lived at the top of its lungs and the ends of its nerves,' Lear told Esquire magazine.

Lear dropped out of college in World War Two to join the Army and flew 52 combat missions.

He went to Los Angeles in 1950 with the intention of being a publicist but began writing for TV stars such as Danny Thomas, Jerry Lewis, Dean Martin and Andy Williams.

Lear and Robert Downey Jr. attend Netflix's 'Sr.' reception on December 11, 2022 in Los Angeles, California.

Lear and actor Rita Moreno attends The 75th Annual Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in 2018

Lear shifted focus in 1981 and founded the liberal activist group People for the American Way to boost voting rights and fight right-wing extremism.

He also established the Norman Lear Center at the University of Southern California's Annenberg School of Communication.

In 2001, he and a partner purchased an original copy of the U.S. Declaration of Independence and sent it on a three-year tour of U.S. schools, libraries and events.

Lear remained a youthful presence for much of life and continued creating television well into his 90s, rebooting 'One Day at a Time' for Netflix in 2017.

He was also featured in two documentaries: 2016s 'Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You,' and HBOs 2017 look at active nonagenarians such as Lear and Rob Reiners father, Carl Reiner, 'If Youre Not in the Obit, Eat Breakfast.'

In 1984, he was lauded as the 'innovative writer who brought realism to television' when he became one of the first seven people inducted into the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences' Hall of Fame.

He later received a National Medal of Arts and was honored at the Kennedy Center for his contributions.

In 2020, he won an Emmy as executive producer of 'Live In Front of a Studio Audience: 'All In the Family' and 'Good Times'.

Lear is survived by his third wife, Lyn, and his six children.
Kylie Jenner channeled her grandmother, Mary Jo, while sporting a chic bob in images shared to Instagram for a new Kylie Cosmetics campaign.

The TV personality, 26 - who has also been busy promoting an upcoming drop for her Khy brand - stunned while celebrating the drop of 'ultra-precise' lip liners that are available in 10 new shades.

In a head-turning photo uploaded on Wednesday, the reality star showcased her impeccable frame wearing a sleeveless, sheer black minidress.

She said goodbye to her long locks and opted for a short, dark brunette bob - similar to her grandmother's signature hairstyle.

Her makeup was glammed up for the shoot, and comprised of a layer of mascara to her lashes as well as a smoky, brown shadow around her eyes.

Kylie Jenner, 26, channeled her grandmother, Mary Jo, while sporting a chic bob in images shared to Instagram for a new Kylie Cosmetics campaign

Mary Jo, 89, is known for her signature chic bob style haircut (Pictured above on Keeping Up with the Kardashians)

A warm blush and contour was added to better accentuate her cheekbones, while a nude-colored tint was worn on her lips and bordered by a darker lipliner.

Kylie promoted the drop of 10 new lipliner shades which are now currently available to consumers through Kylie Cosmetics.

In the caption of the post, she penned to her 399 million followers, 'my PRECISION POUT lip liner just dropped in 10 brand new shades on kyliecosmetics.com.'

A few days earlier, The Kardashians star shared a close-up image as she sported the same ensemble and short hair bob. In her right hand, she held a lip pencil close to her face.

The pencils are priced at $17 each, and come in shades such as Cinnamon, Cocoa, Lure, Sultry and also Stone.

Kylie appears to have a close relationship with her grandmother, and has shared photos of Mary Jo - also known as MJ - on social media over the years.

Earlier in May, she shared a Mother's Day tribute to both mom, Kris Jenner, as well as MJ by uploading an assortment of adorable snaps.

While focusing on her successful beauty brand, the mother-of-two has also been working hard on her newly launched clothing line called Khy.

A few days earlier, The Kardashians star shared a close-up image as she sported the same ensemble and short hair bob. In her right hand, she held a lip pencil close to her face

Kylie appears to have a close relationship with her grandmother, and has shared photos of Mary Jo on social media over the years

Earlier in May, she shared a Mother's Day tribute to both mom, Kris Jenner, as well as MJ by uploading an assortment of adorable snaps

On the main Instagram page for the brand, she shared a short reel as she put on a leggy display wearing a red, oversized hoodie in preparation for Khy's third drop which contains sweats and shirts.

She struck a variety of poses in front of a plain backdrop on a spacious set, and returned to her long locks which were swept back into a stylish up do.

In the caption, the businesswoman teased that the 'fleece oversized hoodie in red' as well as other items will be ready for purchase on Thursday, December 7.

The beauty launched Khy last month on November 1. The first line, Drop 001, contained a total of 12 items made of a black, vegan leather material and was in partnership with the Berlin-based brand called, Namilia.

Her second line, called Drop 002, was in collaboration with Entire Studios and contained puffers and base layers in colors such as blue and white.

Shortly after Khy became available to consumers, it was reported that the company garnered a whopping $1 million in sales, selling out of items such as the faux leather trench coat.

According to the brand's official website, 'Khy aims to redefine the modern wardrobe by offering edited collections that seamlessly blends luxury with everyday style, spanning a diverse range of categories and styles.'

'By collaborating with iconic brands and global designers, we hope that Khy will be a platform that delivers access to incredible fashion to everyone.'

While working hard on running her business empire, Kylie has also been focusing on her budding romance with actor, Timothee Chalamet.

The couple were first romantically linked in April, and have been spotted on various outings since then, such as attending an SNL party in NYC after the Wonka star took on hosting duties last month.

She said goodbye to her long locks and opted for a short, dark brunette bob - similar to her grandmother's signature hairstyle

While focusing on her successful beauty brand, the mother-of-two has also been working hard on her newly launched clothing line called Khy

On the main Instagram page for the brand, she shared a short reel as she put on a leggy display wearing a red, oversized hoodie in preparation for Khy's third drop which contains sweats and shirts

She struck a variety of poses in front of a plain backdrop on a spacious set, and returned to her long locks which were swept back into a stylish up do

In the caption, the businesswoman teased that the 'fleece oversized hoodie in red' as well as other items will be ready for purchase on Thursday, December 7

While working hard on her brands, Kylie has also been focusing on her budding romance with actor, Timothee Chalamet; seen earlier this month in Paris

A source recently told People that Jenner is 'incredibly happy' with Chalamet, and calls him 'her boyfriend.'

The insider also stated that Timothee is 'in awe of everything she is accomplishing' and added he thinks that she is an 'amazing mom.'

'He is very supportive of her career and she of his. They both try to attend important events for each other.'

'He is very good for Kylie. Since dating him, she seems very content, relaxed and focused. Her family loves him,' the source continued.
RuPaul's Drag Race unveiled the 14 queens competing for the crown, $200K prize, and the title of America's Next Drag Superstar on season 16, which airs its two-part premiere January 5 on MTV.

Six of the queens hail from New York City including Amanda Tori Meating, a wig stylist who's crafted hair for the reigning queen Sasha Colby.

Amanda's name 'comes from all the times I've been called into the boss' office thinking, "F***, I'm about to get fired." But then I walk out with a big, fat promotion.'

And with only 7K TikTok/Instagram followers, Amanda - who's a 'beautiful glamorous, and very professional human woman' - has the least amount of the cast.

Dawn only moved to Brooklyn two years ago, and she 'conceptualizes and crafts all of her own pieces from costume to performance.'

RuPaul's Drag Race unveiled the 14 queens competing for the crown, $200K prize, and the title of America's Next Drag Superstar on season 16, which airs its two-part premiere January 5 on MTV

Dawn - who has 36K TikTok/Instagram followers - described herself as 'a gremlin of chaotic energy' and an 'ethereal elf goddess' who has 'big looks - silhouettes, extravagant, never-before-seen!'

Megami is a thique, Nuyorican 'geek chic goddess of Brooklyn and the Barbie of Staten Island' whose name translates to 'goddess' in Japanese.

Megami - who has 13K TikTok/Instagram followers - 'started drag as a cosplayer going to geeky conventions like New York ComicCon.'

Nymphia Wind might live in New York, but she's actually the 'first Taiwanese queen to grace the stage of RuPaul's Drag Race.'

Nymphia - who has 34.8K TikTok/Instagram followers - is clearly a comedy queen but crafted her own headpiece and leather jacket for the promo shoot and said her 'drag is very conceptual, cultural, and very yellow obviously.'

Bringing the '1950s Hollywood glamour' to New York is Plasma, who described herself as a '65-year-old woman inhabiting this gorgeous 24-year-old's body.'

Plasma - who has 10.2K TikTok/Instagram followers - boasts a BFA in Musical Theatre Performance so you know she'll be fighting for the lead in the Rusicals.

Xunami Muse aka 'the knock-off Naomi Campbell' is the only contestant this season to have signed with a modeling agency in New York.

Six of the queens hail from New York City including Amanda Tori Meating, a wig stylist who's crafted hair for the reigning queen Sasha Colby

Dawn only moved to Brooklyn two years ago, and she 'conceptualizes and crafts all of her own pieces from costume to performance'

Megami is a thique, Nuyorican 'geek chic goddess of Brooklyn and the Barbie of Staten Island' whose name translates to 'goddess' in Japanese

Nymphia Wind might live in New York, but she's actually the 'first Taiwanese queen to grace the stage of RuPaul's Drag Race'

Bringing the '1950s Hollywood glamour' to New York is Plasma, who described herself as a '65-year-old woman inhabiting this gorgeous 24-year-old's body'

Xunami Muse aka 'the knock-off Naomi Campbell' is the only contestant this season to have signed with a modeling agency in New York

Xunami - who has 21.5K TikTok/Instagram followers - is the drag daughter of season 13 and All Stars 8's Kandy Muse (R), who gushed on Wednesday: 'My f***ing best friend and drag daughter is on RuPaul's Drag Race season 16! F***!'

Xunami - who has 21.5K TikTok/Instagram followers - is the drag daughter of season 13 and All Stars 8's Kandy Muse, who gushed on Wednesday: 'My f***ing best friend and drag daughter is on RuPaul's Drag Race season 16! F***!'

Two of the queens hail from Miami, including Mhi-ya Iman Le'Paige aka the 'Queen of Flips' famed for her 'tricks, flips, and performing her a** off.'

And with 212K TikTok/Instagram followers, Mhi-ya has the most followers of anyone in the cast this season.

Also from Miami is Morphine Love Dion, a professionally-trained dancer who's been featured in music videos for artist like Bad Bunny and Maluma.

Morphine - who has 50K TikTok/Instagram followers - said her drag 'is all about the mug. The make-up always has to be 100!'

Hailing from Los Angeles is Hershi LiqCour-Jete, who brings 'glam camp auntie drag' and said she 'loves being beautiful and loves being absolutely stupid.'

Hershi's drag sister is season 14 Miss Congeniality winner Kornbread 'The Snack' Jete, who's 'one of the most annoying, aggravating women that I know in this world, but I love her to death.'

Hershi - who has an impressive 120K TikTok/Instagram followers - also has the distinction of being the only queen raising two small children with her boyfriend.

Two of the queens hail from Miami, including Mhi-ya Iman Le'Paige aka the 'Queen of Flips' famed for her 'tricks, flips, and performing her a** off'

Also from Miami is Morphine Love Dion, a professionally-trained dancer who's been featured in music videos for artist like Bad Bunny and Maluma

Hailing from Los Angeles is Hershi LiqCour-Jete, who brings 'glam camp auntie drag' and said she 'loves being beautiful and loves being absolutely stupid'

Hershi's drag sister is season 14 Miss Congeniality winner Kornbread 'The Snack' Jete (R, pictured in 2019), who's 'one of the most annoying, aggravating women that I know in this world, but I love her to death'

Hershi - who has an impressive 120K TikTok/Instagram followers - also has the distinction of being the only queen raising two small children with her boyfriend (pictured February 4)

Mirage is a Native American and Mexican beauty from Las Vegas, who entered the work room in villain mode declaring: 'I hope you trash bags are ready to lose!'

Mirage is a Native American and Mexican beauty from Las Vegas, who entered the work room in villain mode declaring: 'I hope you trash bags are ready to lose!'

'I am known as the legs of Las Vegas,' the 'stripper who shops at Claire's' - who has 65K TikTok/Instagram followers - said.

'I am feeling like a bad bitch because I just called everyone trash. I hear the whispers and I am choosing not to address them.'

Geneva 'Vroom Vroom' Karr is the first Mexican-born queen to compete on RuPaul's Drag Race, but she now lives in Brownsville, TX.

Geneva - who has 59K TikTok/Instagram followers - said she's 'very dramatic, scandalous, and brilliant fantasy. Of course I'm Mexican Spice!'

Plane Jane was a competitive ballroom dancer as a child, so she's not afraid to lip sync for her life.

Referencing season 7 and All-Star 2's Katya Zamolodchikova, Plane - who has 14.2K TikTok/Instagram followers - described herself as 'the authentically Russian clown hooker from Boston.'

Q is not only a theatre queen, she's also a designer and seamstress from Kansas City, MO.

Geneva 'Vroom Vroom' Karr is the first Mexican-born queen to compete on RuPaul's Drag Race, but she now lives in Brownsville, TX

Plane Jane was a competitive ballroom dancer as a child, so she's not afraid to lip sync for her life

Q is not only a theatre queen, she's also a designer and seamstress from Kansas City, MO

Last but not least is Sapphira Cristal from Philadelphia, PA, who boasts six-octave singing pipes after studying 'music composition, vocal performance, and opera'

Season 16 will introduce a new twist with the cast divided into two groups (MTV's Spring Break and the Queen Choice Awards) that will 'Rate-A-Queen' and rank each other's talent show performances (pictured in 2022)

The long-running competition was originally created in 2009 by drag icon RuPaul (pictured in 2019), who's won seven consecutive Emmy Awards (2016 to 2022) for outstanding host for a reality program

Q - who has 10.7K TikTok/Instagram followers - is an 'artist, diva, beyond' that declared in her entrance: 'Cue the music because the show is about to start!'

Last but not least is Sapphira Cristal from Philadelphia, PA, who boasts six-octave singing pipes after studying 'music composition, vocal performance, and opera.'

The 34-year-old drag queen - who has 17K TikTok/Instagram followers - said her drag is 'more is more, bigger is better' and declared in her entrance: 'I think this place is haunted.'

Season 16 will introduce a new twist with the cast divided into two groups (MTV's Spring Break and the Queen Choice Awards) that will 'Rate-A-Queen' and rank each other's talent show performances.

This season's episodes of RuPaul's Drag Race will run 90 minutes rather than the controversial 60-minute episodes from season 15.

The long-running competition was originally created in 2009 by drag icon RuPaul, who's won seven consecutive Emmy Awards (2016 to 2022) for outstanding host for a reality program.
Janey Smith put on a glamorous display as she joined her partner Roger Hawes at The National Lottery's Big Bash on Wednesday.

The My Mum, Your Dad favourites, who found a connection on camera, smiled for photos together on the red carpet at the OVO Arena Wembley, London.

Janey, 47, looked stunning in a plunging black gown with silver beaded detailing and a satin tie at her waist.

She elevated her height with a pair of stilettos and topped off her look by styling her hair into soft waves.

Meanwhile, Roger, 58, opted for smart velvet blazer with a black suit, metallic tie and loafers.

Janey Smith, 47, put on a glamorous display as she joined her partner Roger Hawes, 58, at The National Lottery's Big Bash on Wednesday

The event, hosted by Alesha Dixon and Jason Manford, will celebrate 2023 and feature performances from Take That, Becky Hill, Busted, Jax Jones featuring Calum Scott and Ina Wroldsen, and Paloma Faith.

Their outing comes after it was revealed that the couple are set to join This Morning, as they shared their exciting news during an appearance on the show.

Roger and Janey cosied up on the sofa with Janey lovingly placing a hand on her partner's knee.

The couple, who won over viewers on the middle-aged dating show, revealed they are still going strong, six months after meeting on the reality series and are now set to embark on a new adventure together.

Revealing they will be joining the daytime television programme, hosts Alison Hammond and Dermot OLeary shared their excitement.

Alison began: 'Listen, were very excited, everyones buzzing here at This Morning because youve got some news, havent you?'

She continued: 'You are going to be joining the team! We dont know what youre going to be doing.'

Dermot asked: 'What are you going to be doing?'

The My Mum, Your Dad favourites, who found a connection on camera, smiled for photos together on the red carpet at the OVO Arena Wembley, London

Roger opted for smart velvet blazer with a black suit, metallic tie and loafers

Their outing comes after it was revealed that the couple are set to join This Morning, as they shared their exciting news during an appearance on the show

Explaining that they will be doing some travel pieces for This Morning, Janey said: 'We are doing some little travel bits for you, it's lovely, it's like lots of holidays for us.'

As the couple recalled their time on My Mum, Your Dad, Janey continued: 'I definitely went in looking for love because I had exhausted all other options.'

'I didn't expect anything that did happen. It's been one of the best surprised in my life I look at it and think Harry Potter is more believe than what has happened to me,' Roger added.

Janey explained: 'At first I was very anxious and suddenly when we made a connection I thought "I've found him now". You felt as if you had found your person, it was like. "thank goodness".
Rebel Wilson has gone to extraordinary lengths to avoid Sydney traffic.

The LA-based Australian actor, who recently returned home to direct her upcoming film The Deb, took to Instagram on Wednesday to vent once again about congestion at the newly-opened Westconnex Rozelle Interchange in the inner-west.

The Pitch Perfect star, 43, then revealed she had hired a helicopter to take her to work that day.

'I've had to get a helicopter to work because of the traffic at the Rozelle Interchange, but you know, it's all good,' said the actress sarcastically.

Behind her a helicopter could be seen preparing to take her to work.

Wilson has previously called on the New South Wales government to fix one of Sydney's most notorious intersections, after she was forced to sit at traffic lights for 30 minutes.

The roadway, which stretches for 16.6km and cost the government $4billion, was opened late last month and has been referred to by critics as the 'spaghetti junction' due to its confusing arrangement.

Filming herself in the passenger's seat on Tuesday, Wilson complained she was running late to work because of the traffic and branded the interchange as 'crazy'.

'I've just been stuck in traffic. I'm just trying to go to work, it's a Tuesday morning. You know, what normally can take 15 minutes, 30 minutes, to go from Victoria Road to the Anzac Bridge... I literally was just at one traffic lights for almost 30 minutes,' she ranted.

Rebel Wilson has gone to extraordinary lengths to avoid Sydney traffic. Pictured with a helicopter in the background

The LA-based Australian actor, who recently returned home to direct her upcoming film The Deb, took to Instagram on Wednesday to vent once again about congestion at the newly-opened Westconnex Rozelle Interchange in the inner-west

Rebel said the interchange's traffic lights make it almost impossible for residents living in suburbs like Balmain and Rozelle to 'drive anywhere in the mornings'.

'Like, it's literally crazy. And I'm sure you guys are out there running late to work as well, it's a nightmare. There's nothing you can do,' the mother-of-one lamented.

Rebel accompanied her rant with a fiery caption that read: 'Government needs to do something re Rozelle Interchange NOW! Let the traffic flow from Victoria Rd to Anzac Bridge like it used to!!'

'I've just been stuck in traffic. I'm just trying to go to work, it's a Tuesday morning. You know, what normally can take 15 minutes, 30 minutes, to go from Victoria Road to the Anzac Bridge... I literally was just at one traffic lights for almost 30 minutes,' she ranted

In a subsequent post, she added: 'Having a baby, and working 12 hour days means I do NOT need an extra hour STUCK IN SYDNEY traffic caused by stupid decisions!'

It is just one of the many examples of Rebel lambasting the Rozelle Interchange on her Instagram Stories.

Last Wednesday, she posted another photo from inside her car after being forced to wait in traffic.

In a subsequent post, she added: 'Having a baby, and working 12 hour days means I do NOT need an extra hour STUCK IN SYDNEY traffic caused by stupid decisions!'

'Thanks Rozelle Interchange for now making a 15 minute trip into the city 90 minutes via Victoria Road. WTF!!' the Pitch Perfect star wrote next to a photo of the gridlocked road.

The NSW government previously warned the new Rozelle Interchange could lead to up to six months of increased congestion while drivers get used to the new set-up.

Meanwhile, a sign outside of one of the tunnels previously added to the confusion.

Last Wednesday, she posted another photo from inside her car after being forced to wait in traffic. 'Thanks Rozelle Interchange for now making a 15 minute trip into the city 90 minutes via Victoria Road. WTF!!' the Pitch Perfect star wrote next to this photo of the gridlocked road

The sign at the entrance of the new 1.1km Iron Cove Link that bypasses Victoria Road - the only section of the interchange that's free to use - told commuters they would have to pay to use it.

Premier Chris Minns recently told 2GB the interchange was 'clearly... confusing - a lot of cars' GPS hasn't caught up'.

Mr Minns said the government would 'change that sign' while portable electronic signs would be used in the interim to tell commuters they won't have to pay a toll on the bypass.
Lori Harvey cut a laidback figure as she stepped out for a stroll in West Hollywood on Tuesday.

The American model, 26, kept it casual as she stopped by Kreation Organic Juicery to pick up a healthy drink during her outing.

She showed off her toned abs in a grey cropped hoodie and matching tracksuit bottoms from Athleta, which she styled with comfy brown boots.

Lori toted her essentials in a small black handbag and accessorised her ensemble with a pair of silver hoop earrings.

She shielded her eyes with black shades amid the sunny weather as she was seen heading to her car after picking up her juice.

Lori Harvey cut a laidback figure as she stepped out for a daytime stroll in West Hollywood on Tuesday

The American model, 26, kept it casual as she stopped by Kreation Organic Juicery to pick up a healthy juice during her outing

It comes after Lori was reportedly seen leaving Beyonce's Renaissance tour concert film premiere with Damson Idris, three weeks after they announced their split.

A source told People that the two were seen leaving the premiere 'side by side', though it's unclear if they continued to the same vehicle.

Though the Snowfall actor, 32, was reportedly at the premiere, he appeared to have skipped the red carpet, while Lori showed off her fashion sense in a black striped vinyl mini dress with detached sleeves.

Although Lori and Damson seemingly left together, they didn't appear overly intimate and the source added that they 'they didnt look happy but looked together and exited that way'.

Lori and Damson previously shared a statement announcing that they had gone their separate ways.

'We are at a point in our lives where our individual paths require our full attention and dedication,' they told The Hollywood Reporter on November 7.

'We part ways remaining friends with nothing but love and respect for each other and the time we shared together.'

The couple began dating at some point in December 2022 but waited until January to make things Instagram official.

Days before the split was announced, fans noticed that Lori had completely wiped all sign of Damson from her Instagram account. The actor then followed suit.

She showed off her toned abs in a grey cropped hoodie and matching tracksuit bottoms, which she styled with comfy brown boots

Lori toted her essentials in a small black handbag and accessorised her ensemble with a pair of silver hoop earrings

She shielded her eyes with black shades amid the sunny weather as she was seen heading to her car after picking up her juice

Lori was reportedly seen leaving Beyonce's Renaissance concert film premiere with Damson Idris, three weeks after they announced their split. She is pictured at the premiere, where Damson seemingly skipped the red carpet

Lori and Damson (pictured in June) previously shared a statement announcing that they had gone their separate ways, saying: 'We part ways remaining friends'

The duo were then photographed arriving separately to Odell Beckham Jr.'s party amid the initial rumors of their break-up.

The last time they were publicly spotted together prior to the Renaissance concert film premiere was in late September in Paris.

They were first rumored to be dating almost a year ago when they were spotted together at the LA hotspot Catch in December 2022.

In February, a month after going Instagram official, they made their red carpet debut together at the LA premiere of the final season of Damson's series Snowfall.

In the past year, they also enjoyed many trips together, all of which have now been removed from both of their Instagram pages.

Lori was previously in a relationship with Black Panther actor Michael B. Jordan for a year and a half, before they broke up in June 2022.
Social media star Indy Clinton recently got the ultimate revenge on her husband Ben after he lied to her about what he got up to on a work trip.

The mummy influencer, 27, discovered he had visited a venue she did not approve of after finding photos on his phone.

So she got back at him by running wild with his credit card, maxing it out at The Star casino in Sydney.

The couple appear to have moved past the drama as they celebrated Indy's win together at the TikTok Australia Awards on Wednesday.

Indy, who shares videos about dealing with her husband and two children on social media, was crowned the nation's most loved influencer.

TikTok winner Indy Clinton hugged her husband Ben Azar months after she accused him of lying to her about strip club visit

After being announced as the winner, a proud Indy embraced Ben before heading to the stage to claim her trophy.

The blonde, who is pregnant with her third child, gave a speech thanking her fans for their support.

'I just won Creator of the Year 2023, thank you so much to every single one of you that voted for me. I am honestly blown away,' she began.

She then revealed she was so jittery attending the ceremony that she was worried her nerves might lead to her prematurely giving birth.

'Shout out to all of the other amazing nominees who create incredible content every day. Finally, thank you to my adorable kids, Navy and Bambi, and my hot husband for their support.

'I thought I was going into labour onstage, I was shaking so much. Thank you for your support, I'm off to go eat Chinese and celebrate,' she added.

In June, Indy made headlines when she discovered that her husband Ben had visited a venue she did not approve of after finding photos on his phone.

Shortly after she went on an extravagant spending spree at The Star casino with her children.

The mummy influencer, who shares videos about dealing with her husband and two children, was crowned the nation's most loved influencer at the TikTok Awards on Wednesday

One of her friends described her punishment to Instagram celebrity watchdog account Dutch Minty: 'He was away for work and lied about it.'

'So, she took the kids and went to max out his credit card as payback.'

Indy also posted a video of TikTok of a remorseful-looking Ben giving her flowers and begging her for forgiveness.

'He's been in the dog house for a week so I finally let him out,' she wrote next to the footage.
Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore pulled out all the stops on Wednesday evening as they arrived at the photocall for their new film May December.

The Oscar-winning actresses complemented each other in matching glamorous all-black ensembles as they posed on the red carpet.

Natalie, 42, ensured all eyes were on her as she donned a plunging black tuxedo jacket, that showed off a hint of her cleavage.

The Black Swan star teamed the blazer with a coordinating pair of trousers and swept her hair up into a sleek bun.

She opted for no jewellery to let her daring outfit shine and completed her striking look with shimmery eyeshadow and a slick of pink lipgloss.

Natalie Portman (pictured) and Julianne Moore pulled out all the stops on Wednesday evening as they arrived at the photocall for their new film May December

The Oscar-winning actresses complemented each other in matching glamorous all-black ensembles as they posed on the red carpet

Natalie, 42, ensured all eyes were on her as she donned a plunging black tuxedo jacket, that showed off a hint of her cleavage

Julianne, 63, showed off her impeccable style in an edgy leather coat layered over a simple black maxi dress.

The Still Alice star boosted her height in a pair of black peep-toe high heels and added a pair of chunky silver earrings.

Her fiery red tresses were styled down and tucked behind her ears, while she sported a light palette of make-up, including a smoky eyeshadow look.

The two movie stars had never worked together before their latest film, which has received critical acclaim.

Natalie and Julianne were joined by Charles Melton, who also coordinated his outfit to match his co-stars.

The actor, 32, looked typically handsome in a simple plain black vest with a pair of matching smart trousers.

He added an oversized blazer over the top and shiny black shoes, while sporting a delicate gold chain.

The Riverdale star's hair was artfully tousled and he added a pair of mismatched silver earrings to complete his stylish look.

The Black Swan star teamed the blazer with a coordinating pair of trousers and swept her hair up into a sleek bun

She opted for no jewellery to let her daring outfit shine and completed her striking look with shimmery eyeshadow and a slick of pink lipgloss

Julianne, 63, showed off her impeccable style in an edgy leather coat layered over a simple black maxi dress

The Still Alice star boosted her height in a pair of black peep-toe high heels and added a pair of chunky silver earrings

Her fiery red tresses were styled down and tucked behind her ears, while she sported a light palette of make-up, including a smoky eyeshadow look

The two movie stars had never worked together before their latest film, which has received critical acclaim

Natalie and Julianne were joined by Charles Melton, who also coordinated his outfit to match his co-stars

The actor, 32, looked typically handsome in a simple plain black vest with a pair of matching smart trousers

He added an oversized blazer over the top and shiny black shoes, while sporting a delicate gold chain

The Riverdale star's hair was artfully tousled and he added a pair of mismatched silver earrings to complete his stylish look

May December sees Natalie playing the role of actress Elizabeth Berry, who researches sex offender-turned-baker Gracie Atherton-Yoo, played by Julianne, in order to more authentically play her in an indie film.

The woman is infamous for her 23-year-old relationship with her husband Joe, played by Charles, whom she first met as a minor.

Twenty years after their notorious tabloid romance gripped the nation, the married couple buckles under pressure when the actress arrives to do research.

Julianne's character is a thinly-veiled version of Mary Kay Letourneau, who served six years in prison for felony second-degree rape of her 12-year-old student Vili Fualaau.

The controversial couple reunited after she was released and they welcomed two daughters and eventually married.

They were married for 14 years before they separated in 2019 and Mary then passed away, at the age of 58, from colorectal cancer the following year.

May December was released on November 17 before streaming on Netflix on December 1 in the US and on Sky Cinema from 8 December in the UK.

The American movie was directed by Todd Haynes from a screenplay by Samy Burch and premiered at the 76th Cannes Film Festival in May.

May December sees Natalie playing the role of actress Elizabeth Berry, who researches sex offender-turned-baker Gracie Atherton-Yoo, played by Julianne, in order to more authentically play her in an indie film

The woman is infamous for her 23-year-old relationship with her husband Joe, played by Charles, whom she first met as a minor

Twenty years after their notorious tabloid romance gripped the nation, the married couple buckles under pressure when the actress arrives to do research

Fans have been going wild for the drama and have taken to Twitter to praise the acting and storyline and in particular Charles' performance.

One fan said: 'It's the next morning after seeing may December (2023) and I can't get Charles Melton's performance out of my head.

'He's just so good and the film itself is a freaking masterpiece dude.'

Another said: 'They don't make movies like may December anymore!'

A third penned: 'What Charles Melton does in May December is so special, he has to walk such a fine line between child and adult.

'I've never been so excited to see where someone's career goes. he's not just a star in the making, but a really special kind of actor.'

Another said: 'I need to see May December again. (Just watched May December.)' while someone else wrote: 'I need to see may December NOW.'

Charles won the Gotham Award for Outstanding Supporting Performance for May December last week.

Julianne's character is a thinly-veiled version of Mary Kay Letourneau (R), who served six years in prison for felony second-degree rape of her 12-year-old student Vili Fualaau (L)

May December was released on November 17 before streaming on Netflix on December 1 in the US and on Sky Cinema from 8 December in the UK

The American movie was directed by Todd Haynes from a screenplay by Samy Burch and premiered at the 76th Cannes Film Festival in May
He's the hunky Australian actor whose role in raunchy Netflix series Sex/Life catapulted him to sex symbol status.

And Adam Demos, 38, put on a smouldering display as he attended the GQ Australian Men of the Year Awards at Sydney's Bondi Pavilion on Wednesday.

The Wollongong-born hunk looked suave in an all-black outfit consisting of a suit jacket and trousers, casual T-shirt and dress shoes.

He allowed his wavy brown locks to flop to the side, and accessorised his look with a chain necklace, silver wrist watch and a ring.

Adam was all smiles as he posed for photos and mingled with other guests attending the prestigious award ceremony.

Sex/Life star Adam Demos, 38, (pictured) put on a smouldering display as he attended the GQ Australian Men of the Year Awards at Sydney's Bondi Pavilion on Wednesday

The sighting comes after Netflix swung the axe on Sex/Life in April.

The show debuted its second season, which had a reduced six episodes compared to the first season's eight, on the streaming service just five weeks earlier.

A spokesperson for Netflix told Deadline the second season had brought the series to a natural ending.

The Wollongong-born hunk looked suave in an all-black outfit consisting of a suit jacket and trousers, casual T-shirt and dress shoes.

They said the streaming platform was 'proud' of Sex/Life and all the work put into it by its cast and crew.

The cancellation was oddly timed, as Sex/Life lead actress Sarah Shahi recently criticised Netflix and the series for what she saw as a 'gimmicky' approach to the second season.

Sarah, who is currently dating her co-star Adam, took a dig at the second season on an episode of Amanda Hirsch's Not Skinny Not Fat podcast.

Adam was all smiles as he posed for photos and mingled with other guests attending the prestigious award ceremony

While the actress seemed quite pleased with the first season, she clearly wasn't happy with the direction it took in season two.

'I'm not going to put it down, but I definitely did not have the support that I did the first season from the people involved in the show. It became a much different thing for me, and I'm not afraid to say that,' Sarah admitted.

It's unclear if she knew that that season would be canceled when she made her criticisms.

She also added that Adam, whom she started dating in 2020 after meeting on the set of Sex/Life, doesn't have much involvement in season two.

'I struggled with the material. I just felt the thing that it had the first season  I mean, I'm never gonna work for Netflix again now after saying all this, but I can't lie. And it was definitely a challenge,' she added.

He allowed his wavy brown locks to flop to the side, and accessorised his look with a chain necklace, silver wrist watch and a ring

The sighting comes after Netflix swung the axe on Sex/Life in April. He starred in the series alongside his real life girlfriend Sarah Shahi (left)
Heartbreak High star Chloe Hayden was a vision in blue at the 2023 TikTok Awards in Sydney on Wednesday night, stepping out in a sheer sequinned mini dress and gumboots.

But on first glance, fans may have missed an important detail of the 26-year-old's outfit - a pair of blue and pink coloured noise cancelling headphones.

The actress lives with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and uses soundproof headphones to help her cope with sensory processing challenges.

On her website, Chloe describes noise cancelling headphones as 'just about her favourite thing in the world', writing: 'I use them all the time, in every situation.'

'They're so good for a number of reasons: Whether you want to listen to music, or use them without music to muffle out noise. I've also found that wearing these bad-boys' in public send a pretty direct signal to tell people to bugger off,' she writes.

Heartbreak High star Chloe Hayden, 26, (pictured) wore a pair of noise cancelling headphones on the red carpet at the 2023 TikTok Awards in Sydney on Wednesday night

Posing on the red carpet, Chloe proved headphones can be glamorous by adding a beaded tiara that obscured the band of her unique accessory.

She also wore a blue sparkly eyeshadow shade that perfectly matched her headwear.

Chloe, who recently announced she was quitting social media after receiving 'death threats and hate speech', is an award winning motivational speaker, podcaster and author who advocates for disability rights.

The actress lives with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and uses soundproof headphones to help her cope with sensory processing challenges

On her website , Chloe describes noise cancelling headphones as 'just about her favourite thing in the world', writing: 'I use them all the time, in every situation'

It comes after Chloe launched a scathing tirade against Marvel Stadium in Melbourne after claiming she was denied access to its sensory room.

The actress requested access to the room while attending a Harry Styles concert in February, and said she was rejected by security.

The sensory room contains noise-cancelling headphones, weighted blankets, and fidget tools so autistic people or those suffering from severe sensory issues have a safe space to go to.

'They're so good for a number of reasons: Whether you want to listen to music, or use them without music to muffle out noise. I've also found that wearing these bad-boys' in public send a pretty direct signal to tell people to bugger off,' she writes

'Hey @marvelstadium reminder you cannot preach inclusivity and then not let me into the sensory room because you decided I don't look autistic enough,' she began.

'How g***amn disappointing the same venue has proven flying its woke flag and ticking the disability box is where its values begin and end,' she added.

She later returned to social media to announce that she'd 'spoken with the CEO of Marvel Stadium' and that they had 'discussed steps forward'.

Chloe, who recently announced she was quitting social media after receiving 'death threats and hate speech', is an award winning motivational speaker, podcaster and author who advocates for disability rights

'A second sensory room is being built, and they have committed to retraining their staff. I plan on keeping them accountable for both. Don't you ever say that raising your voice is futile,' she wrote.

For support regarding caring for children or adults with ASD, call Autism Spectrum Australia on 1800 277 328.

You can also visit the website at Autism Spectrum Australia or Spectrum Support Australia.
Maya Jama and Stormzy finally went Instagram official on Wednesday seven months after rekindling their romance.

The TV presenter, 29, and the rapper, 30, looked smitten in a snap Maya shared on her social media as she posted about hosting the British Fashion Awards on Monday.

In the snap Maya looked incredible in a black and silver off-the-shoulder gown as she gazed adoringly at her partner.

The pair reconciled back in summer of this year after splitting in 2019 and were then seen on a romantic Greek holiday in August.

At the fashion awards Stormzy looked dapper in a white ensemble as he supported his girlfriend.

Maya Jama and Stormzy finally went Instagram official on Wednesday seven months after rekindling their romance

The TV presenter, 29, and the rapper, 30, looked smitten in a snap Maya shared on her social media as she posted about hosting the British Fashion Awards on Monday (seen leaving the awards)

Her fans went wild in the comments as she shared the snap with him, as one said: 'The last pic though. That man is never letting you go again!'

Another said: 'Last slide is what we've been waiting for', as a third said: 'That last photo! What the world has been waiting for!'

Maya confirmed her relationship was Stormzy was back on in August as they were seen strolling hand-in-hand during a holiday in Greece.

The couple dated for four years before parting ways in 2019, with the rapper publicly declaring he has 'never loved anyone how I've loved her'.

He has always denied any infidelity in the relationship but admitted he had to learn some hard lessons about his behaviour, describing it as 'disrespectful'.

Speaking to Louis Theroux on his interview series, the rapper admitted to making mistakes during their four-year relationship but revealed he has since grown.

He explained: 'My break-up, that was probably the biggest catalyst for growth as a man. It was like, OK, you made a mistake and you lose someone you loved, someone you cared for, someone who is special to you.

'That's probably the biggest loss a man can have, isn't it? Away from someone passing away, that's the biggest loss you can have.'

After the British Fashion Awards held at the Royal Albert Hall Maya and Stormzy left hand in hand

At the fashion awards Stormzy looked dapper in a white ensemble as he supported his girlfriend

Maya had four outfit changes at the British Fashion Awards 2023 held at the Royal Albert Hall on Monday night.

The Love Island presenter who hosted the prestigious event alongside music artist Kojey Radical, wore a quirky white corset-style dress for the annual ceremony's red carpet.

She teamed the eye-catching number with sheer thigh-high stockings and stiletto heels.

Once inside she then slipped into an off-the-shoulder black gown with sparkly details.

It was teamed with matching gloves and she even re-did her hair and makeup to compliment the look.

The third look was a red silk skirt and crop top which she wore with a mesh halterneck top over.

Her fourth look saw Maya slip into a black evening dress that showed off her toned pins.

Maya had three outfit changes at the British Fashion Awards 2023 held at the Royal Albert Hall on Monday night

The Love Island presenter who hosted the prestigious event alongside music artist Kojey Radical, wore a quirky white corset-style dress for the annual ceremony's red carpet (left)

For her fourth look, Maya slipped into a black mini dress with white straps as she headed to the afterparty with her boyfriend Stormzy

The garment featured a flowing train along with white straps while Maya added height to her frame with a pair of heels.

A-listers such as Kate Moss, Amal Clooney and Gwyneth Paltrow walked the red carpet on the night.

The event, presented by jewellery brand Pandora returned to the iconic London venue, the Royal Albert Hall on Monday evening.

The evening, hosted by British broadcaster Maya and Kojey, celebrated 16 awards. TFA nominees and winners are voted for by an international judging panel made up of over 1000 industry experts.
Emily Blunt looked stylish when at Lincoln Center in midtown New York City on Wednesday.

The British actress was holiday radiant in a bright red long coat with a satin lining worn over a colorful print dress with a black background.

The 40-year-old movie star added beige platform loafers with a silver accent on top and had a dark brown shoulder bag dangling from her arm.

She was blinged out with long earrings, a necklace and rings on most of her fingers. The talent was nicely glammed with her long blonde hair down and nude toned makeup with bronze blush.

The wife of actor John Krasinski was leaving Italian eatery Lincoln Ristorante with two security guards by her side.

Emily Blunt looked stylish when in Lincoln Center in New York City on Wednesday

The British actress was holiday radiant in a bright red coat worn over a colorful print dress with a black background. The movie star added beige platform loafers with a silver accent on top and had a dark brown shoulder bag dangling from her arm

This comes after Blunt appeared in a Variety cover story with Anne Hathaway, her Devil Wears Prada costar.

The actresses have known each other for 18 years after first meeting on the set of Devil Wears Prada.

I t had been nearly two decades since they they lit up the screen playing arch enemy assistants Andrea and Emily, respectively, in the iconic 2006 comedy that catapulted them into mega stardom.

'You are one of the people Ive known longest. Weve known each other for 18 years,' Blunt incredulously told Hathaway, to which she replied, 'What? Our relationship is the age of an adult.'

Blunt hilariously added, 'Thats drinking age in England,' as Hathaway quipped, 'We are so drunk in England right now.'

The Hollywood actresses reunited for the Actors on Actors issue of Variety.

The stars then took a walk down memory lane to reveal the details of their very first interaction before the cameras rolled on the $325 million blockbuster.

The talent was nicely glammed with her long blonde hair down and nude toned makeup with bronze blush. The star was leaving Italian eatery Lincoln Ristorante with two security guards by her side.

She was blinged out with long earrings, a necklace and rings on most of her fingers

The cover girl had on her gold wedding band from husband John Krasinski

'Did we meet before the table read?' Blunt asked as she hilariously noted her memory is not her greatest asset.

'This is so embarrassing because I remember every second of the first time I met you,' Hathaway replied, before joking, 'Im so much more into you than you are into me. Its fine. Its fine.'

She continued: 'I was hearing that your name came up, and they said, Its this amazing girl out of England and shes so funny. And I remember walking into the room and turning and meeting you. In my head  instant thought  I was like, What a movie star!

'You were shedding stardust.' Hathaway continued. 'Then we went for coffee. I took you for a walk around where I live [in New York]'

Blunt reunited with Anne Hathaway for the Actors on Actors issue of Variety

Hathaway and Blunt played arch enemy assistants Andrea and Emily, respectively, in the iconic comedy that catapulted them to megastardom.

Blunt responded: 'I was so green coming into that situation. And you were like the warmest embrace. Even though you were a colossal movie star at that time, you treated me like a complete equal.'

The British beauty, 40, went on to say that the pair had a 'joy bomb' making the film, although neither actress could foresee it becoming a huge part of pop culture.

'Its quoted to me every week,' Blunt added. 'It will be the movie that changed my life.'

The David Frankel-directed film was based on Lauren Weisberger's 2003 novel of the same name and revolves around the character Andy Sachs (played by Hathaway), a recent college graduate aspiring to be a journalist.

'Do you know shes never done Method acting since?' Blunt said of Streep

She lands a job as the assistant to the powerful Miranda Priestly (played by Meryl Streep), the editor-in-chief of the prestigious fashion magazine Runway, who also employs aloof lead assistant Emily Charlton (Blunt).

During their reunion for Variety, Hathaway and Blunt had a blast reciting iconic quotes from the movie and revealed that Streep and Stanley Tucci (who played art director Nigel Kipling) would often improvise their lines.

They also dished on the fun they had on set, which they said was often lost on Streep as she stayed in character as the demanding boss.

'You know, I think [Meryl] always wanted to join in on the fun with us. She kept herself so in character,' Hathaway said.

'Do you know shes never done Method acting since?' Blunt chimed in.

'She said it made her so miserable on this one, because we were all having a party on the other side of the set. And she was like, I wont do this again.'

The actresses also dished on the scene where Hathaway's character is complaining about her boss to her boyfriend (played by Adrian Grenier).

'Fun fact: I am wearing my cousins headband in that scene,' Hathaway revealed.

'Do you know what I loved about that headband? Your little bangs would stick out. It was just so cute. It was just so nerdy. And I wanted that grilled cheese so badly,' Blunt replied.
Anne Robinson has been in a secret relationship with Queen Camilla's ex-husband Andrew Parker Bowles for a year, according to reports.

The former Countdown host, 79, who has the TV nickname 'The Queen of Mean', is said to have found love with the twice-married retired Army brigadier, 83, after being introduced by a mutual friend.

Their relationship is said to be an 'open secret' within upper circles, with Andrew a regular plus one at Anne's dinner parties at her 17th century home in the Cotswolds.

According to insiders, one of their first dates was a dinner party attended by ex Prime Minister David Cameron, with Andrew able to 'poke fun' at the presenter, who is known for her sharp tongue.

When asked about their romance, Anne, who has also been married twice, hit back: 'It's none of your business'.

Anne Robinson has been in a secret relationship with Queen Camilla's ex-husband Andrew Parker Bowles for a year, according to reports

The former Countdown host, who has the TV nickname 'The Queen of Mean', is said to have found love with the twice-married retired Army brigadier, 83

Andrew divorced Camilla in 1995 after 22 years of marriage, but remain close friends  despite a complicated history which included infidelity on both parts (pictured in 2020)

A source told The Sun: 'They have judiciously avoided being photographed together as they both wanted to keep this quiet for as long as possible.

'Annie proudly tells everyone she is the daughter of a market trader chicken-seller and is as far removed from a toff as could be - frankly it beats any storyline The Crown could possibly come up with.

'Annie and Andrew get on splendidly, she makes him laugh, a lot, and he is one of the few people to get away with poking fun at her. She loves to joke she's "new money".'

The insider ironically pointed out Anne went to 'boarding school, her father got a double first and she holidayed for part of the summer at The Carlton in Cannes' - when she wasn't working behind her mother's stall.

Both Anne and Andrew have been married twice.

Anne married journalist Charles Wilson in 1968. In 1970 the couple had a daughter, Emma Wilson, who became a British radio disc jockey. Their marriage broke down in 1973.

The presenter went on to marry journalist John Penrose in 1980, but they split in 2007 and announced they were planning to divorce, citing 'irreconcilable differences'.

Andrew, meanwhile, divorced Camilla in 1995 after 22 years of marriage, but remain close friends - despite a complicated history which included infidelity on both parts.

Camilla was famously Charless mistress during her marriage to Andrew, while the latter is described by friends as having been very naughty with women throughout.

Camilla is pictured here chatting to Anne at the 2013 Man Booker Prize for Fiction

Anne Robinson married journalist John Penrose in 1980. On 30 September 2007, the couple announced that they were planning to divorce, citing "irreconcilable difference'

Both Anne and Andrew have been married twice. Anne married journalist Charles Wilson in 1968. In 1970 the couple had a daughter, Emma Wilson, who became a British radio disc jockey

Anne previously revealed back in 2017 how she had quit dating app Tinder an hour after getting it

They have two children: food writer Tom, 48, and Laura Lopes, 45, an artist.

Andrew first met Camilla in the late 1960s and they dated on and off for several years before marrying in 1973.

According to Andrews cousin John Bowes Lyon, the couple were pressured into making the commitment when both their fathers published an engagement notice for them in The Times.

Andrew and Camilla divorced in 1995, saying in a statement that throughout our marriage we have always tended to follow rather different interests, but in recent years we have led completely separate lives.

The following year, he married his long-term mistress Rosemary Pitman. They were together until Rosemary passed away in 2010 of cancer, aged 69.

At the time of her death it was reported that Camilla was deeply saddened by the news.

Andrew was a guest at Charles and Camillas wedding in April 2005, attending their service of blessing at St Georges Chapel, Windsor.

Anne previously revealed back in 2017 how she had quit dating app Tinder an hour after getting it.

The former Weakest Link presenter complained potential matches on the app offered 'slim pickings' and added she didn't want to date a 'bald man with a moustache'.

Discussing her short-lived stint on Tinder, she told The Sun: 'I dont want to date someone bald and with a moustache.

Charles attended the wedding of Andrew and Camilla's son, Tom Parker Bowles, in 2005

Andrew and Camilla are pictured in 2006 for the wedding rehearsal of their daughter Laura

Andrew married his long-term mistress Rosemary Pitman in 1996. They were together until Rosemary passed away in 2010 of cancer, aged 69 (pictured 2000)

Andrew played polo on the same team as King Charles. Here he is pictured (right) on a royal visit to Kenya in 1971 with Charles

Anne is best known as the host of The Weakest Link, which she presented from 2000 to 2017

King Charles and Queen Camilla pictured with Prince William and the Princess Of Wales on Tuesday

'It is slim pickings out there! I would rename Tinder "desperate". I have one particular pair of glasses, they are my red glasses and I can pull in them.

'I promise you. You need to get red glasses to pull.'

Anne had her first foray into the world of online dating when she set up a Tinder profile on BBC documentary Britains Relationship Secrets.

She was quick to dismiss anyone holding an alcoholic beverage in their profile photo, given that Anne has had a well-documented battle with alcohol and is now teetotal.

She explained she wouldn't settle for anything less than a company CEO.

The former Points Of View front-woman also revealed she champions a healthy appetite for sex as an older woman.

The Sun reported at the time she told them she hopes women of her age are having sex - and divulged her bedroom antics 'keep me young'.

'I dont have a partner at the moment, Ive had two husbands and theyre lovely. Im a committee of one,' she added.

Anne is best known as the host of The Weakest Link, which she presented from 2000 to 2017.

The presenter spent 13 months as host of Countdown, but stepped down in July last year amid rumours of backstage drama.

It was claimed the cast of Countdown were 'relieved' Anne was leaving after reports of an on-set feud with Rachel Riley - who Anne reportedly found 'too noisy' - and Susie Dent.

She said on Angela Scanlons Ask Me Anything on Irish TV: 'I tried to be nice on Countdown. I loved it but nothing was ever going to be as wonderful as The Weakest Link or being a newspaper journalist.

'I probably made a mistake thinking I could replicate it on another game show. [Countdown] is a brilliant show but it does not really require a smart-arse presenter.'

She added: 'If you were quite obese, I would say What do you do when you are not eating?. But you cant do that anymore.'

The presenter, who was employed on a freelance basis, admitted that despite being offered a pay rise, she did not want to join Channel 4's payroll and so decided to walk away from her role as host.

Speaking to The Sun, she confessed: 'I come from a long line of alcoholic, Irish bandits so to suggest I go PAYE is a bit like asking Philip Green or Richard Branson to join the company payroll.

'I wasn't interested in any offer on that basis. Even if it included financial parity. I will, however, miss out on the Channel 4 luncheon vouchers, which is a big regret.'
Former Coronation Street stars Michelle Keegan and Helen Flanagan reunited at the British Fashion Awards 2023 in London on Monday night.

The actresses - Michelle, 36, and Helen, 33, posed for a selfie outside the female toilets of the Royal Albert Hall.

Helen posted the sweet snap to her Instagram story with the caption 'Love you @michkeegan' and a pink heart.

Michelle first appeared in Coronation Street as Tina McIntyre in 2008 before being killed off in 2014 by the brother of Carla Connor.

Helen starred as Rosie Webster, daughter of longtime characters Sally and Kevin Webster from 2000 to 2012, before the character returned in 2017 and left again in 2018 to star on a Japanese game show.

Former Coronation Street stars Michelle Keegan, 36, (left) and Helen Flanagan, 33, reunited at the British Fashion Awards 2023 in London on Monday night

Michelle portrayed Tina McIntyre, (right) on the hit soap from 2008 till she was killed off in 2014, while Helen, (left) starred as Rosie Webster and appeared from 2000 to 2012 then 2017 to 2018

At the awards, Michelle wore a white dress with tiny, black, bra-style top part and a flowing skirt featuring a thigh-high split.

She paired the dress with black, over-the-knee, lace-up heeled boots which were open-toed and featured numerous holes.

Helen's black dress which trailed the floor looked innocent from the hips down, but above was a lingerie-style bodice complete with faux-underwear.

Her bare arms exposed the portrait tattoo she has of Marilyn Monroe on her left forearm which she got in 2012, following in the footsteps of Megan Fox.

The Fashion Awards was presented by jewellery brand Pandora alongside its official partners Don Julio, Getty Images and Royal Salute.

It serves as the main fundraiser for the BFC Foundation which supports the future growth and success of the British fashion industry.

Among the recipients on Monday night were five-time Grammy Award winner Sam Smith who accepted the Cultural Innovator Award.

Famed make-up artist Charlotte Tilbury also scooped up a Special Recognition Award and esteemed designer Valentino a Lifetime Achievement Award.

At the Awards, Michelle wore a white dress with tiny, black, bra-style top part and a flowing skirt featuring a thigh-high split

Helen's black dress which trailed the floor looked innocent from the hips down, but above that was a lingerie-style bodice complete with faux-underwear

Michelle is married to The Only Way Is Essex star Mark Wright, and the couple has been together since 2013.

The couple recently showed off their extravagant Christmas decorations in their 3.5 million Essex mansion.

Helen split from partner of 13 years, Bristol Rovers' Scott Sinclair, in 2013, following a romantic 2018 proposal.
The US has filed war crime charges against four Russians accused of kidnapping an American civilian from his home in Ukraine who was stripped naked, tortured and asked for his 'last words' during a mock execution.

The DOJ case marks the first prosecution against Russians in connection with atrocities during their war against Ukraine and is the first war crimes case involving the victimization of an American, officials said.

The American was living with his wife in the eastern village of Mylove when he was abducted and held for ten days in April last year at a Russian military base by Suren Seiranovich Mkrtchyan, Dmitry Budnik, and two men known as Valerii and Nazar.

He told US investigators that he was repeatedly beaten with fists, boots and rifle stocks and had a gun held to the back of his neck during a mock execution where he was asked for his 'last words'.

'Again and again, he believed he was about to die,' Attorney General Merrick Garland told a news conference this morning.

The American was living peacefully with his wife in the Ukrainian village of Mylove when he was abducted from his home and tortured for ten days by Russian troops

Russia had taken the village within days of their invasion on February 24 but fierce fighting still raged across the Kherson region

'The Justice Department and the American people have a long memory.

'We will not forget the atrocities in Ukraine. And we will never stop working to bring those responsible to justice.'

All four Russians are identified as members of the Russian armed forces or its proxy units. Two of them are described as senior officers. None of the four is in custody.

'During the abduction, we allege that those defendants threw the victim to the ground while he was naked, tied his hands behind his back, pointed a gun at his head, and beat him with their feet, their fists, and the stocks of their guns,' Garland said.

'As they interrogated him, they tortured him. They beat him, again, with a gun. They punched him in his chest and stomach. They threatened to shoot him. They stripped off his clothes and took pictures. One of their conspirators threatened to sexually assault him.

'And during the interrogation, when the victim's answers did not satisfy the defendants, we allege that Budnik, who was also a commanding officer, threatened the victim with death and asked for his last words.

'Nazar and other co-conspirators then took the victim outside. There, they forced him to the ground and put a gun to the back of his head. The victim believed he was about to be killed.

'They moved the gun just before pulling the trigger, and the bullet went past his head.

'After the mock execution, the victim was beaten and interrogated again.

'At one point, he was told through an interpreter that he was 'going to sleep,' and he was told by Mkrtchya: 'goodnight'  leading the victim to believe, again, that he was about to be killed.'

'The evidence gathered by our agents speaks to the brutality, criminality, and depravity of Russias invasion,' Mayorkas said.

The village of Mylove was deep inside Russian-held territory when the American was abducted from his home and taken to a nearby military base where he was tortured

Ukrainian troops were fighting fiercely to hold the nearby Azovstal steelworks in the nearby city of Mariupol as the American was kidnapped

The abduction came just weeks after the start of the Russian invasion as fierce fighting raged across the Kherson region.

Ukrainian volunteers holed up in the Azovstal steelworks were fighting a desperate rearguard action to save the nearby city of Mariupol, and the International Criminal Court began its own war crimes probe amid claims of murder and rape against Russian forces marauding the countryside.

It was not until November 2022 that Ukrainian forces retook the American's village and Homeland Security and FBI investigators were able to interview the American, his family and others in the village to identify the four Russians.

The American who was not involved in the fighting and a 'protected person' under international law was eventually evacuated from the country along with his Ukrainian wife.

The four accused are all charged with unlawful confinement, torture and inhuman treatment, as well as one count of conspiracy to commit war crimes, the Justice Department said.

Garland has been outspoken on war crimes in Ukraine since Russia's invasion began in February 2022, and the Justice Department assigned federal prosecutors to examine the potential of bringing criminal charges.

Independent human rights experts backed by the U.S. have said theyve found continued evidence of war crimes committed by Russian forces, including torture that ended in death and rape of women aged up to 83 years old.

The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin in March for war crimes, accusing him of personal responsibility for the abductions of children from Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia does not recognize the ICC and considers its decisions 'legally void.' He called the courts move 'outrageous and unacceptable.'

The United States is not a member of the ICC, but the Justice Department has been cooperating with it and supporting Ukrainian prosecutors as they carry out their own war crime investigations.

The charges carry mostly symbolic significance for the moment given the unclear prospects that any of the four defendants would ever be brought to an American courtroom to face justice.

They come as the Biden administration, in an effort to show continued support for Ukraine during a separate war between Israel and Hamas, is pressing Congress to approve military and economic aid for Kyivs war effort.

The U.S. and Russia do not have an extradition treaty, but the Justice Department has brought repeated criminal cases against Russian nationals, most notably for cyber crimes and including for interference in the 2016 presidential election.

Attorney General Merrick Garland insisted he would 'not forget the atrocities in Ukraine' as he announced the first ever prosecution under the War Crimes Act in defense of an American

In some of those cases, the defendants have been taken into custody by American officials, such as when theyve traveled outside Russia.

'These charges, against four Russia-affiliated military personnel, are the Justice Department's first criminal charges under the US war crimes statute,' Garland said.

'They are also an important step toward accountability for the Russian regime's illegal war in Ukraine.

'Our work is far from done.'
Some can be as high as $7 as costs vary between banks

Average cost of an out-of-network transaction has doubled since 1998

ATM charges hit record highs this year despite President Biden's junk fee crackdown.

The average cost of an out-of-network transaction - when a customer withdraws money from a machine not belonging to their own bank - reached $4.73, up from $2.69 twenty years ago, according to data from Bankrate.

And DailyMail.com analysis from earlier this year found in some cases the charges can be as high as $7 - meaning a $10 withdrawal incurs a 70 per cent fee.

As the holiday season approaches and more Americans are expected to visit cash-only bars, consumer advocates are urging them to avoid the hefty charges.

Adam Rust, director of financial services for the Consumer Federation of America, told DailyMail.com: 'These fees are being charged at a higher rate than the actual running cost. And there's little the consumer can do to negotiate that.'

ATM charges hit record highs this year despite President Biden's junk fee crackdown

When a customer withdraws money from an ATM that doesn't belong to their bank, they are billed twice - by their own firm and the machine provider.

Bankrate found that the average surcharge by the ATM owner was $3.15, up from $3.14 last year. Meanwhile the cost imposed by a customer's own bank had climbed to $1.58.

The total average fee of $4.73 is now more than double what it was in 1998 when customers were charged $1.97 for a transaction.

But Rust noted that customers can avoid the charges by either making withdrawals from ATMs belonging to their own bank only, asking for cash back in stores of seeking out fee-free machines.

Allpoint, STAR and MoneyPass are among the ATM networks which do not charge for a transaction.

Earlier this year DailyMail.com asked the major US banks what levy they impose on out-of-network transactions.

Huntington bank came out as the worst offender - its customers can expect a fee of $3.50 to use a different machine.

Meanwhile a non-Huntington client who uses one of their ATMs is billed $4. The firm offer withdrawals starting at $1 going up to $5, $20 or $50 - though it depends on the machine. At the time, a spokesman for the bank said it offers several different account options, with some including no fees to use a different ATM machine.

But the costs are the same across the board as Chase, Santander, PNC, BMO and TD all charge $3 for their customers who use a different cash machine.

Analysis by Dailymail.com earlier this year found the largest charges banks impose on 'out-of-network' cash withdrawals

The number of cash machines in the US has fallen from 470,000 in 2019 to 451,500 at the end of 2022

It means that a Chase customer who withdrew from a Huntington cash machine would be charged as much as $7 - $3 by Chase and $4 by Huntington.

On a $10 withdrawal, this would amount to 70 percent of the whole transaction.

Regional banks tend to charge lower fees on such withdrawals while online firms rarely apply any surcharges.

But the issue is compounded by the fact that banks have been steadily axing ATMs across the country due to dwindling cash use.

According to the number of cash machines has fallen from 470,000 in 2019 to 451,500 at the end of 2022. Earlier this year, Chase also announced it was limiting the hours some of its ATMs were open due to rising thefts nearby.

It means that consumers face less choice on where they can withdraw money - possibly forcing them to use a rival's machine.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) previously estimated that Americans are spending $120 billion on banking fees applied to overdrafts, account maintenance and transactions.

And President Biden has pledged a widespread crackdown on the 'junk fee' economy.

In October, the White House joined forces with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the CFPB to target banking fees.

The bodies issued guidance to stop banks from charging fees for 'basic customer service.' They did not issue specific guidance on ATM charges.
As the holiday shopping season kicks in, experts are urging Americans to look out for an increase in cruel scams that can cheat them of hundreds or thousands of hard-earned dollars.

Fraudsters take advantage of more opportunities to steal your hard-earned cash and personal details.

Experts are warning consumers to look out for copycat retail websites and opportunistic 'porch pirates' who swipe packages which have been delivered to your door.

Newer scams, such as fake employee discounts originating on TikTok, are also a concern during the holiday season.

Here's a look at some of the main scams to watch out for.

'Typosquatting'

Shoppers should look out for imposter websites posing as legitimate retailers to trick people into handing over their personal details, said consumer expert Teresa Murray.

This tactic is known as 'typosquatting' or 'URL hijacking' - when crooks buy the misspelling of a domain name in order to intercept traffic from rushed shoppers.

It is especially easy to go to the wrong website if you are shopping in a hurry using a tiny screen on your smartphone, Murray, who directs the Consumer Watchdog office for nonprofit US Public Interest Research Group (PIRG), told USA Today.

'It's dangerous to just do Google searches for websites,' she said, noting that fraudsters impersonate reputable brands with decent looking websites.

Look out for misspellings, bad grammar and odd-looking URLs which are red flags that a site is not legitimate, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises.

It is especially easy to go to the wrong website if you are shopping in a hurry using your smartphone, experts warn

Employee 'revenge' scheme

The BBB warns about trending TikTok videos which feature an unhappy ex-employee who is offering a top-secret discount code to help you save money.

The person claims to have worked at a high-end store, and is offering out an online code which means can get a huge discount - up to 90 percent off - in order to get back at their old boss.

This so-called TikTok 'revenge' scheme involves asking the consumer to pay for shipping - and the shipping costs keep soaring as you add items to your online cart.

The victim is then likely not to receive anything in the mail.

'Porch pirates'

The threat of thieves stealing packages is also higher during the holiday season, when many households are receiving more deliveries. Many cost hundreds or thousands of dollars for several gadgets.

In order to prevent these crimes, some communities are offering safe places where residents can have their deliveries sent risk-free.

For example, Northville Township in Michigan is offering its residents an opportunity during the holidays to have packages that weigh 50 pounds or less sent directly to the police department.

Buyers then have five days to pick up the item.

The threat of thieves stealing packages is also higher during the holiday season, experts warn

Delivery issues

Cyber crooks know that Americans are worried about packages arriving on time at this time of year - and so may send phishing messages claiming there have been problems with a delivery.

'If your payment for that Amazon or Best Buy purchase supposedly didn't go through or delivery supposedly is messed up, contact the company directly through a means you know is accurate,' PIRG's Murray told USA Today.

Do not call the phone number or text that you just received, as that might connect you directly with scammers.

Watch how you shop

Use a credit card, rather than a debit card, when shopping online so you are easily able to refute any suspicious charges, experts say.

Watch your statements more closely for fraud or unknown transactions for a few months after an online purchase, Murray said.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) also urges Americans to avoid using public Wi-Fi networks to make purchases online or log into your bank account when shopping for the holidays.

Public networks may not be secure, which could expose your personal and banking information to scammers.
Subway's new line of footlong cookies, churros and pretzels are marketed as 'freshly baked' - but they have to be defrosted first.

The new additions to the menu have to be taken out of the freezer, thawed, and then heated up before being given to customers, according to company documents obtained by the New York Post.

A training handbook given out to franchisees in recent weeks allegedly states it will take four hours to thaw frozen footlong cookies and two hours to thaw the churros and pretzels.

'Eight churros, six pretzels, and three cookies go on a pan to thaw,' the handbook reportedly reads.

The chain marked the launch of its new 'Sidekick' sweet menu items by handing out free footlong cookies at select locations in major US cities - before the snacks are slated to launch nationwide in February.

Subway's new line of footlong cookies, churros and pretzels are marketed as 'freshly baked' - but reportedly arrive at stores frozen

In a press release late last month, the company, famous for its footlong subs, said: 'Subway sells more freshly baked cookies than any other restaurant company in the United States and will soon be the exclusive home of the footlong cookie.'

Paul Fabre, Senior Vice President, Culinary and Innovation at Subway, said the cookies are 'thick, gooey, packed with chocolate chips and served warm  right out of the oven.'

Subway already sells smaller cookies at its stores, but the new 'Sidekick' range will reportedly include footlong cookies, churros and pretzels.

'After a guest has told you their sandwich order, recommend a Sidekick,' the manual allegedly reads.

'If they order a Sidekick, the trick is to finish all the sandwiches first, then put the Sidekick in the speed oven to heat up. So it comes out nice and hot.'

According to a viral TikTok video made by a former Dunkin' employee, by comparison, franchises have a choice about where they source their donuts.

They can either bake them in the restaurant, the former employee claims, have them delivered fresh from a central kitchen, or order frozen donuts which are thawed instore.

The chain marked the launch of its new 'Sidekick' sweet menu items by handing out free footlong cookies at select locations

This is not the first time the chain has faced controversy.

Two customers filed a lawsuit in San Francisco federal court in 2021 accusing the fast food restaurant franchise of misrepresenting its tuna sandwich, which the chain vehemently denied.

The plaintiffs claim that they performed independent lab tests of samples of tuna taken from several Subway locations in California.

The tests prove that the tuna is actually a mixture of various concoctions that do not constitute tuna, yet have been blended together by [Subway] to imitate the appearance of tuna, the complaint read.

But the case was dismissed in July this year. Subway and the plaintiffs came to an agreement 'regarding dismissing the case with prejudice,' which means it cannot be brought again, court records show.

DailyMail.com contacted Subway for comment but did not immediately hear back.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Wednesday asked the opposition parties not to divide the country on the basis of north and south India and asked if the INDIA bloc constituents support the remarks against Hindi heartland states by a DMK MP.

Replying to a question related to his Consumer Affairs Ministry during the Question Hour in the Lok Sabha, Goyal said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has come up with the idea of One Nation, One Ration Card so that the whole country could be united through a single transparent system of getting subsidised foodgrain anywhere.

"The PM always works to unite the people. But the opposition is trying to divide the country. Some of them even talked about North and South India. Please stop dividing the country," he said amidst vocal objections by some opposition members.

Unwilling to relent to the objections, the minister hit back, saying, Do you support the statement of a member made in this House yesterday. Do INDI alliance members support the statement of that member.

Goyal, however, did not take the name of DMK member D N V Senthil Kumar who had made the controversial remarks.

While participating in the debate on the J&K Reorganisation (Amendment ) Bill in Lok Sabha on Tuesday, Kumar said the BJP can win elections only in the Hindi heartland states and not in South India.

While the DMK member's comments against Hindi heartland states were expunged by the Lok Sabha Speaker later, they sparked controversy with several members across party lines condemning the MP and a video of his speech going viral on social media. Facing flak, he later apologised.

Goyal said 81.35 crore people in the country are now getting free foodgrains under the PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana.

The scheme is implemented across India under 100 per cent funding by the central government for the lower incoming families, he said.

The minister said the state governments have informed that no one in the country has died in the recent past due to hunger.

When Congress leader in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury objected to Goyal's remarks, the minister asked whether he was in pain since the poor of the country are getting free foodgrains.

He said the Congress could not even fulfil its promise of providing 10 kg free foodgrains to the people of Karnataka and was giving only half of it.

Replying to another question, Goyal said the system of lodging consumer complaints and getting their problems resolved has been made robust and simple and now any consumer can register his or her complaints 12 hours a day through the single dedicated number 1915.
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said an audit of the Delhi Jal Board's records by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has been ordered to ascertain whether there has been any irregularity.

Interacting with reporters, he warned that there could be a water and sewage crisis in Delhi in the coming days owing to the non-release of funds.

A couple of weeks ago, Delhi Water Minister Atishi had claimed the national capital was staring at a 'man-made water crisis' due to the stoppage of funds to the Delhi Jal Board by the finance department and demanded Lt Governor V K Saxena's immediate intervention in the matter.

Kejriwal, on Wednesday, said, "We have ordered a CAG audit of the last 15 years of records of the Delhi Jal Board. CAG is a third party and the biggest agency in the country. Things will become clearer now."

"If someone has committed irregularities, they should be punished. If no irregularities have been committed, then those who level baseless allegations will get to know," he added.

Asked about the fund crisis in Delhi Jal Board and its possible impact on the ongoing works, the chief minister said, "If bureaucracy will not be answerable to the government, it will be impossible to run the government. There could be a water crisis and sewer crisis due to non-release of funds."

Delhi Jal Board vice-chairman Somnath Bharti welcomed the government's decision to order an audit.

"There cannot be a better thing than this. This reflects the transparency of the Delhi government that the chief minister himself opted to order a CAG audit. This proves the honesty of the AAP government and our leader Arvind Kejriwal.

"This also kills the attempt to politicise the Delhi Jal Board. In DJB, we have been all working hard to serve the people of Delhi but BJP has been trying to bring issues that have no merit. So now, the CAG audit will make everything clear," he told PTI.

The BJP and AAP have been sparring over alleged irregularities in the Delhi Jal Board since last month. The BJP has accused the DJB of running a "scam" of awarding bogus tenders for the upgradation of its sewerage treatment plants.
The Rajasthan Police on Wednesday carried out searches to nab the two accused behind the killing of Rajput leader and national president of Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi.

Jaipur Police Commissioner Biju Geroge Joseph told PTI that the two accused, who shot dead Gogamedi as well as Naveen Singh Shekhawat, who accompanied them to the Rajput leader's residence on Tuesday, have been identified and searches are on to trace them.

One of the accused is from Haryana and the other from Rajasthan, he said.

Joseph said the two accused secured access to Gogamedi's house through Shekhawat.

It is a matter of investigation whether Shekhawat, who used to run a cloth shop, was aware of the intentions of the two accused, he said.

Gogamedi was shot dead in the living room of his house here on Tuesday.

The killing triggered protests by members of the Rajput community who have called for a Jaipur bandh.

Khatipura road in Jaipur was blocked while community members in large numbers were sitting outside the Metro Mass hospital in Mansarovar area in Jaipur where the body is kept.

Similar protests took place in Jodhpur and Udaipur also. However, the protest was peaceful and there was no violence.

Slamming the state police for the killing, Mahipal Singh Makrana, national president of the Shri Rajput Karni Sena, demanded the removal of the state DG for "failing" to provide security to Gogamedi.

There was an intelligence input about the murder of Sukhdev Gogamedi from Punjab Police but the Rajasthan Police did not provide him security. This is a clear failure of the police. The DG should be moved and action against negligent police officials should be taken, he told PTI.

Makrana said there is huge resentment in the Rajput community and they will be forced to hold protests across the country if the accused were not caught.

He said not only the Rajput community, but the 'Sarv Samaj' (all communities) is agitated over the incident.

Gangster Rohit Godara linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang has taken responsibility for the murder on a social media post, a police official said.

Gogamedi's supporters have demanded a compensation of Rs 11 crore for the family of the slain leader.

"The incident makes it clear that there is 'Jungle Raj' (law of jungle) in Rajasthan. The accused should be killed in an encounter, one of the supporters said.
China has become the first country to confer diplomatic status to a Taliban-nominated official as Afghanistans Ambassador to Beijing, thereby formally recognising the Taliban-run administration as a legitimate government in Kabul.

As a long-standing friendly neighbour of Afghanistan, China believes that Afghanistan should not be excluded from the international community, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a media briefing on Tuesday when asked whether China recognised the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan. Earlier reports from Kabul said China has given Bilal Karimi, a Taliban nominee the status of Ambassador and he has submitted his credentials to the foreign ministry here.

China along with Pakistan and Russia maintained its embassy in Kabul after the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August 2021 following the withdrawal of American troops from the war-ravaged country. While maintaining close contact with the Taliban interim administration, Beijing withheld recognition, especially over global criticism of the Talibans treatment of women and girls, excluding them from educational institutions. No other country has formally recognised the Taliban government, which has been criticised over human rights violations and crushing womens rights.

Defending Chinas move, Wang said, We hope Afghanistan will further respond to the expectations of the international community, build an open and inclusive political structure, adopt moderate and prudent domestic and foreign policies, firmly combat all forms of terrorist forces, develop friendly relations with other countries, especially with its neighbours, and integrate itself into the world community.

We believe that diplomatic recognition of the Afghan government will come naturally as the concerns of various parties are effectively addressed, Wang said.

China, which shares borders with Afghanistan, also has serious concerns over the regrouping of East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM), a banned outfit comprising Uighur militants from the volatile Xinjiang province, and pressing the Taliban administration to crack down on the outfit. Significantly, Chinas diplomatic recognition comes at a time when Pakistan, Beijings all-weather ally, is having serious problems with the Taliban which it once nurtured. Pakistan is now blaming the Taliban government for recurring terrorist attacks in the country and criticised it for not cracking down hard on Pakistan Islamic militant groups, especially the Pakistani Taliban, operating from Afghanistan. In retaliation, Islamabad has ordered forceful evacuation of thousands of Afghan refugees living in the country for decades.
Dr Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, head of the Dawoodi Bohra sect of Islam, was on Tuesday conferred with Nishan-e-Pakistan, the highest civilian award of Pakistan.

President Dr Arif Alvi conferred the award of Nishan-e-Pakistan upon Dr Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, Head of the Dawoodi Bohra community, at a special investiture ceremony, held at Aiwan-e-Sadr, the presidents office said in a post on X. Dr Saifuddin, the head of the Mumbai-headquartered Dawoodi Bohra community spread across over 40 countries, including a sizeable congregation in Pakistan, is the 53rd Dai al-Mutlaq of the order. The Dawoodi Bohras carry out developmental works to benefit the underprivileged in all these countries.

Nishan-e-Pakistan is the highest civilian honour awarded for services of the highest distinction to the national interest of Pakistan. The award, conferred at a special investiture ceremony, recognises 77-year-old Saifuddins services to Pakistan in the field of spiritual guidance and social services, Geo News reported.

The Bohra community head holds a special regard for Pakistan and is an advocate of peace, harmony and goodwill, read the citation read out before the conferment of the award. Recounting his services in the education sector, it was said that he had contributed to the building of the School of Law at the University of Karachi and launched a university project. Multiple healthcare institutions are operating in the name of the Bohra community head providing affordable healthcare to people.

Separately, caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar met the Dawoodi Bohra community head and lauded the communitys services for the progress of the country. The premier felicitated Dr Saifuddin on being awarded the countrys highest civil award and expressed confidence that the Bohra community would continue to play their role in the progress and development of the country.

Each year, the announcement of awards is made on August 14, Pakistans Independence Day, and the awards are conferred next year on Pakistan National Day, observed on March 23. But in special cases, these dates are not followed and the investiture can be arranged anytime.
Prince Harry is challenging on Tuesday the British governments decision to strip him of his security detail after he gave up his status as a working member of the royal family and moved to the United States. The Duke of Sussex said he wants protection when he visits home and claimed its partly because an aggressive press jeopardizes his safety and that of his family.

The three-day hearing scheduled to begin in Londons High Court is the latest in a string of Harrys legal cases that have kept London judges busy as he takes on the UK government and the British tabloid media. It was not clear if he would attend Tuesdays hearing.

Harry failed to persuade a different judge earlier this year that he should be able to privately pay for Londons police force to guard him when he comes to town. A judge denied that offer after a government lawyer argued that officers shouldnt be used as private bodyguards for the wealthy.

Harry, the youngest son of King Charles III, said he did not feel safe bringing his wife, former actor Meghan Markle, and their two young children back to Britain and was concerned about his own safety after being chased by paparazzi following a London charity event.

Harrys animosity toward the press dates back to the death of his mother Princess Diana, who died in a car wreck as her driver tried to outrun aggressive photographers in Paris. Harry, whose wife is mixed-raced, cited what he said were racist attitudes and unbearable intrusions of the British media in his decision to leave the United Kingdom.

The 39-year-old prince is challenging the decision by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures to provide his security on a case by case basis after moving in 2020 to Canada and then California, where he and his family now reside.

He said the committee unfairly nixed his security request without hearing from him personally and did not disclose the makeup of the panel, which he later learned included royal family staff. He said Edward Young, the assistant private secretary to the late Queen Elizabeth II, should not have been on the committee because of significant tensions between the two men.

The Home Office has argued that any tensions between Harry and the royal household staff was irrelevant and that the committee was entitled to its decision because he had relinquished his role as a working member of the family. The case is one of five that Harry has pending in the High Court.

The four other lawsuits involve Britains best-known tabloids, including a case that alleges the publisher of the Daily Mail libeled him when it ran a story suggesting he had tried to hide his efforts to continue receiving government-funded security.

A ruling is expected in that case on Friday.

Three other lawsuits allege that journalists at the Mail, the Daily Mirror, and The Sun used unlawful means, such as deception, phone hacking or hiring private investigators to dig up dirt about him.
Four minor children were among seven people who were injured on Tuesday when an improvised explosive device exploded near a school here in the capital of Pakistans restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. According to the police, the blast occurred around 9:10 am on the congested Warsak road near a school and a private bank in Peshawar. At least four kilogrammes of explosives, planted in a cemented block on the side of the road, were used in the blast, Geo News reported. According to a Michni Gate Police Station official, seven people were injured in the blast. Four children between the ages of seven and ten were also injured, Lady Reading Hospital authorities said. Police and rescue teams were sent to the site as soon as the blast was reported, Warsak Superintendent of Police Arshad Khan was quoted as saying by the Dawn newspaper.

Those injured were moved to a private hospital, where the condition of two children was critical, spokesperson of the Peshawar Lady Reading Hospital Asim Khan said. He added that none of the children were wearing a school uniform. Khan said that the police launched a search operation in the surrounding areas. The element of extortion is also being considered, he was quoted as saying. It would be premature to say who was the target, he added.

According to The Express Tribune newspaper, No group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Pakistan has been hit by a wave of terrorist activities orchestrated by various terror outfits.

According to a recent report by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) think tank, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province was the most affected by terror attacks in November, recording 51 attacks with 54 deaths and 81 injuries.
On climate pledges, developed countries urged to walk the talk

13:41, December 06, 2023 By Tai Beiping, Guo Shuang, Chen Mengyang ( Xinhua

This photo taken on Nov. 29, 2023 shows the media center of COP28 in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates. (Xinhua/Wang Dongzhen)

As major carbon emitters since the Industrial Revolution, developed countries bear historical responsibilities and legal obligations to offer help to developing countries, the biggest victims of climate change.

But how long will the world still have to wait till developed countries fulfill their promise?

DUBAI, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Climate crisis victims can't wait "forever." It's the moment for "them" to take real action. "They" need to "walk the talk."

Calls for "them," the developed countries that had produced the largest share of greenhouse gases in our atmosphere, to repay historical debt were resounding among participants here at the ongoing COP28 climate conference.

CLIMATE VICTIMS CAN'T WAIT FOREVER

Still nearly a month to go before the year wraps up, the World Meteorological Organization on Thursday labeled 2023 the hottest year on record in human history.

The UN agency warned that 2023 marked a year of unprecedented climate records being shattered, as extreme weather events left behind a trail of widespread devastation and despair.

Global warming is taking its toll, and developing countries are bearing the brunt of climate crisis.

Here at COP28, or the 28th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), calls for developed countries to honor their promise on climate finance were repeated by delegates from around the globe.

Climate activists display placards during a demonstration in Nakuru county, Kenya, on Nov. 14, 2023. (Photo by Sheikh Maina/Xinhua)

As major carbon emitters since the Industrial Revolution, developed countries bear historical responsibilities and legal obligations to offer help to developing countries, the biggest victims of climate change.

Under the UNFCCC and its Paris Agreement, developed countries should provide assistance in finance, technology and capacity building to developing nations to adapt to climate change and mitigate its impacts.

At the 2009 climate conference in Copenhagen, developed countries pledged to provide 100 billion U.S. dollars in climate finance every year by 2020. However, the promise has yet to be fulfilled.

How long will the world still have to wait till developed countries fully deliver the promised funds?

In the words of Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, president of the Association for Indigenous Women and Peoples of Chad, the answer is "Forever!"

CRISIS LOOMING LARGE

On the opening day of COP28, a loss and damage fund was agreed with pledges to provide funding for most affected countries by climate change. It was a positive move, yet many delegates are suspicious about its viability.

"I am optimistic because it (loss and damage fund) is started, but I am not really believing in the promise. Not really, because the promise of the 100 billion is not getting reached today," said Ibrahim.

Climate finance needs to be delivered, and delivered swiftly because the victims can't wait. "It has to be now," said Ibrahim. "Climate change is not only in the movies, it is the real life of people."

She told Xinhua that 40 million people who depend on the resources of Lake Chad are in danger as 90 percent of the lake area has disappeared.

"They're fighting each other, killing each other with the remaining resources," Ibrahim said.

A wooden boat is seen on dry bed of a reservoir in Wonogiri district, Central Java, Indonesia, Aug. 10, 2023. (Str/Xinhua)

The woes are not unique to Chad. Climate change is threatening the livelihood of people in many countries, not least small island nations and some of the world's least-developed countries.

Climate crises are occurring in real life, and affecting hundreds of millions of people, delegates here at the climate conference said.

DEVELOPED COUNTRIES TO BLAME

"Europe, North America, Japan and a few other most developed countries in the world are the countries who have caused the problem (of climate change)," said Erik Solheim, former UN under-secretary-general and former executive director of the UN Environment Programme.

Taking into account their carbon emissions in history, those rich developed countries are emitters that have produced the major part of greenhouse gases in the world, Solheim told Xinhua in Dubai.

According to the Sixth Assessment Report of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 58 percent of the global warming since the Industrial Revolution was caused by pre-1990 human activities.

It has become global consensus that as major polluters that have caused the largest part of climate change, developed countries should repay the debt they owed in the past.

Climate activists take part in a protest in New York, the United States, on Oct. 29, 2022. (Photo by Michael Nagle/Xinhua)

"It is not enough, in our view, for developed countries to simply wring their hands and make empty promises," said President of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, at the climate conference.

They need to fulfill their commitments and obligations under the Paris Agreement, and ensure the rollout and implementation of tangible, concrete action to mitigate the adverse impact of climate change, the president urged.

As climate disasters strike more frequently across the world, the need for developed countries to take action becomes ever more urgent.

"Talk shows are over now," said Ibrahim Matola, minister of energy of Malawi, in an interview with Xinhua.

They need to "walk the talk," he said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
A flooded underpass after heavy rainfall owing to Cyclone Michaung, in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh (PTI)

Bhubaneswar: The southern districts of Odisha were on alert on Tuesday night as the intensity of rains is likely to increase as an impact of severe cyclone Michaung that made landfall in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh, officials said.

The storm made landfall in the afternoon near Bapatla between Nellore and Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh, with a maximum sustained wind speed of 90-100 kmph, gusting up to 110 kmph.

Light rainfall has been recorded in Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Ganjam, Gajapati and Kalahandi districts of Odisha till the evening, and the intensity is likely to increase overnight, officials said.

After landfall, the cyclone is likely to move northwards and weaken into a depression, they said.

"The maximum rainfall recorded so far in the affected districts till the evening was only 50 mm," said Gyana Das, the Additional Special Relief Commissioner (SRC).

In Koraput, the district administration said that the situation was being closely monitored, and precautionary measures were being taken.

"At present, the situation is normal. There has been a prediction of an increase in the intensity of the downpour in the next 24 hours, and necessary precautionary measures have been taken by the administration to avoid any untoward incident," said Koraput Collector Abdaal Akhtar.

In Rayagada, two teams of the ODRAF have been deployed to deal with landslides and road blockades, resulting from uprooted trees.

The weather office predicted a high likelihood of heavy rainfall in the district, from Wednesday to Friday.

"As there have been forecasts of more rains, the field staff have been placed on maximum alert," said Collector Swadha Dev Singh.

The field staff has been tasked with assessing and reporting any crop or house damage immediately, she said.

"The swift collection of such reports is crucial for the district headquarters to initiate necessary steps," she added.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the deep sea along and off the Odisha coast till December 6.

Severe cyclonic storm Michaung made landfall, crossing south Andhra Pradesh coast between 12.30 pm and 2.30 pm, leaving its maximum fury to be felt on Monday in Chennai and adjoining areas of neighbouring Tamil Nadu.
Supporters of Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena's president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi stage a protest after he was shot dead at his house by unidentified assailants, in Jaipur (PTI)

Jaipur: The Rajput community on Wednesday called for a state-wide bandh over the murder of Karni Sena Chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi.

The Chief of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi was shot dead in Jaipur on Tuesday by unidentified bike-borne criminals.

Calling out for immediate action in the case, Bhawani Singh Kalvi, son of Karni Sena founder Lokendra Singh Kalvi, said that the crowd will keep on increasing unless there is a positive result in nabbing those responsible. Urging all party leaders to stand in solidarity, Kalvi said that the incident is above political parties and each one of us is expecting the government to take swift action in the case.

Slamming the Rajasthan Governement over the incident, protester Kalyan Singh Jadhav said "The incident is very unfortunate and it is a tight slap on the government of Rajasthan. We will continue the protest unless we get justice and the culprits are punished".

Meanwhile, BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla shared a video of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi and claimed that the security of the victim was reduced by the Gehlot Government.

"Congress has a caretaker government in place right now. BJP government is not in office. Also security of the said victim was reduced by Gehlot", Poonawalla claimed in a post on X.

Taking potshots on the outgoing Ashok Gehlot Government in Rajasthan over the murder of Karni Sena Chief, BJP leader Diya Kumari said that it is a complete intelligence failure.

"...He was murdered yesterday. The entire state of Rajasthan is stunned and sad...This was avoidable. There is Congress government in Rajasthan. He was continuously receiving threats and he had sought enhanced security but it wasn't done. This was the responsibility of the State Government but we know their attitude. Law & order is zero in Rajasthan. What has happened is wrong...The matter should be taken up in fast track court and they should be given the strictest of punishments...This was planned, it didn't happen overnight...Was the State Government sleeping? Didn't they know about it? This means that this is a complete intelligence & law and order failure", BJP leader Diya Kumari said.

On the other hand, Congress leader Pramod Tiwari blamed the newly elected BJP Government over the murder of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi.

"I strongly condemn the incident but if this is the beginning of BJP then what will happen next?", Congress' Pramod Tiwari said.

However, Rajasthan DGP Umesh Mishra informed that raids are being conducted at the possible hideouts of the miscreants. "Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi and one of his bodyguards were shot. An accused accompanying the killers was also shot, who has died. Raids are being conducted at the possible hideouts of the miscreants...We spoke to the Haryana DG and assistance has been sought. Rohit Godara gang has taken responsibility for the murder, they will be arrested soon," Rajasthan DGP said.
A woman along with her belongings, wades through a flooded street after heavy rains in Chennai on December 6, 2023. (AFP)

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Wednesday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting interim relief of 5,060 crore for flood mitigation efforts in the state. In Delhi, DMK MPs T.R. Baalu and Tiruchi N. Siva called on the Union government to dispatch a team to assess the damage.

Chennai witnessed the use of boats and helicopters in rescue operations as widespread waterlogging, especially in areas like Old Mahabalipuram Road and newly-developed localities in South Chennai, compelled residents to seek refuge on higher floors without access to food.

Concerned about potential worsening flood conditions due to high tides obstructing drainage, the Chief Minister inspected the water flow into the Bay of Bengal. He also visited his Kolathur constituency in North Chennai to distribute relief materials.

Despite Cyclone Michaung wreaking havoc two days earlier, normalcy remained elusive in much of Chennai, fuelling public frustration. Protests erupted in various locations, targeting the mayor's houses, councilors, ministers, and MLAs. A massive demonstration in north Chennai caused a three-hour traffic snarl, aggravating the existing difficulties posed by flooding and potholes.

The lack of electricity, compounding the distress caused by waterlogged homes and streets, drew ire towards the electricity department. Residents visited offices and made persistent calls, prompting the electricity minister, Thangam Thennarasu, to announce a phased restoration of power, ruling out leakages due to waterlogging.

Acknowledging the challenging situation, the government extended the holiday for schools and colleges to Thursday. Additionally, several private companies decided to resume office operations only the following Monday, citing issues with erratic internet services.
SC Senior counsel Dushyant Dave. (DC File Image)

NEW DELHI: In a letter addressed to Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, senior advocate Dushyant Dave expressed deep concern about certain events related to the listing of cases and their subsequent reallocation to different benches within the Supreme Court. The letter, written by Dave, who is a former president of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), urged the Chief Justice to take immediate corrective measures.

The context of Dave's letter comes after Supreme Court Judge Sanjay Kishan Kaul expressed surprise over the alleged abrupt removal of matters concerning delays by the Centre in approving the collegium's recommendations on the elevation and transfer of High Court judges. Dave highlighted that he was writing the open letter as attempts by some lawyers to meet the Chief Justice had been unsuccessful.

In the letter, Dave expressed anguish over the situation, stating that such incidents do not bode well for the highly respected institution. He urged the Chief Justice to investigate the matter promptly and implement corrective measures. Dave emphasised the sensitivity of some cases involving human rights, freedom of speech, democracy, and the functioning of statutory and constitutional institutions.

Referring to constitutional schemes and rules governing case listings, as well as the administrative power of the Chief Justice as the master of the roster, Dave pointed out instances where cases were shifted from one bench to another, disregarding established rules and practices. He highlighted that matters listed before specific benches were moved to others, even when the first coram was available, and the seniority of the first coram was being ignored.

"Matters listed before Court No 2, 4, 6, 7 amongst others have been shifted out and listed before other Benches in clear disregard of the rules, the handbook on practice and office procedure referred above and established practice and convention. Curiously, the seniority of the first coram is also being ignored in doing so...," he said in his letter.

Dave concluded the letter by expressing disappointment over the impact of such improprieties on the justice delivery system in recent years and expressed hope that under Chief Justice Chandrachud's leadership, the Supreme Court would rise to greater heights.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge with party leader Rahul Gandhi and other Opposition leaders during the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) meeting, at Kharge's residence, in New Delhi, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023. (PTI Photo)

NEW DELHI: Floor leaders from 17 parties belonging to the I.N.D.I.A. bloc met at the residence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday to strategise on enhancing coordination in Parliament against the BJP. The meeting, attended by senior leader Rahul Gandhi, aimed to pave the way for a parliamentary strategy session involving top leaders.

It was agreed during the meeting that the senior leadership would convene soon, with the exact date to be announced shortly. Kharge shared on social media that a parliamentary strategy meeting for like-minded parties' floor leaders from both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha was conducted at 10, Rajaji Marg.

Kharge emphasised their commitment to addressing people's issues in the remaining part of the ongoing session to hold the government accountable. He announced the upcoming fixing of a date for the meeting of I.N.D.I.A. parties, in consultation with leaders from all participating parties. "Judega Bharat, Jeetega INDIA," he concluded.

Congress president Kharge hosted the leaders for dinner, and another meeting is scheduled for the third week of December. This subsequent gathering will be attended by prominent leaders, including some chief ministers from Opposition parties.

Rajya Sabha MP and Congress leader Nasir Hussain, addressing reporters after the meeting, clarified that the TMC and Shiv Sena had previously informed them of their unavailability. He emphasised that the meeting involved floor leaders from the I.N.D.I.A. bloc, with the attendance of representatives from almost 17 parties.

The meeting holds significance, as it was initially intended for alliance partner chiefs, but due to the busy schedules of leaders like Mamata Banerjee, Hemant Soren, and Akhilesh Yadav, the top leaders' meeting was rescheduled to the last week of December,
Chief Minister designate A. Revanth Reddy. (PTI Photo)

Hyderabad: Chief Minister designate A. Revanth Reddy will not form a full-fledged Cabinet on Thursday, after taking the oath of office as the chief minister at LB Stadium, it is learnt.

Party sources said that eight or nine ministers are expected to take the oath on Thursday. The upper limit of Telangana cabinet is 18, including the Chief Minister, but it is learnt that only eight or nine ministers will take oath on Thursday.

Though the Congress leadership maintained suspense on the composition of the Cabinet, the sources suggested that Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka will take oath on Thursday and he will be made the deputy chief minister.

The other senior leaders, who are expected to take oath on Thursday, include N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, D. Sridhar Babu, Ponnam Prabhakar, Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, G. Vinod and Seethakka (Dansari Anasuya).

It is learnt that Revanth Reddy will expand the cabinet after the election of the Speaker. The Legislative Assembly session will be convened very soon to enable elected MLAs to take oath and for election of speaker. It is learnt that Revanth Reddy is considering Tummala Nageshwara Rao for the speaker post.

Revanth Reddy held day-long deliberations with party high command in Delhi on Thursday. He met Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, AICC general secretary (organisation) K.C.Venugopal. He held discussions on Cabinet formation with K.C. Venugopal and AICC Telangana affairs in-charge Manikrao Thakare,

Revanth Reddy, who reached Hyderabad by a special flight on Thursday evening, went straight to his residence in Jubilee Hills and has not given any clarity to party leaders on how many ministers will take oath along with him on Thursday.

It is learnt that Revanth Reddy will disclose the list of Cabinet ministers on Thursday morning, hours before the swearing-in ceremony.

Revanth Reddy will visit the Secretariat at around 3 pm on Thursday soon after taking oath as the Chief Minister. He will occupy the CM's chambers on the sixth floor and hold a meeting with ministers and officials.
JBG SMITH owns, operates, invests in, and develops mixed-use properties in high growth and high barrier-to-entry submarkets in and around Washington, DC. Through an intense focus on placemaking, JBG SMITH cultivates vibrant, amenity-rich, walkable neighborhoods throughout the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Approximately two-thirds of JBG SMITH's holdings are in the National Landing submarket in Northern Virginia, which is anchored by four key demand drivers: Amazon's new headquarters; Virginia Tech's under-construction $1 billion Innovation Campus; the submarket's proximity to the Pentagon; and JBG SMITH's deployment of next-generation public and private 5G digital infrastructure. JBG SMITH's dynamic portfolio currently comprises 14.7 million square feet of high-growth office, multifamily, and retail assets at share, 99% of which are Metro-served. It also maintains a development pipeline encompassing 9.8 million square feet of mixed-use, primarily multifamily, development opportunities. JBG SMITH is committed to the operation and development of green, smart, and healthy buildings and plans to maintain carbon neutral operations annually.
Smartsheet Inc (NYSE:SMAR) released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, December, 7th. The company reported $0.16 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts' consensus estimates of $0.09 by $0.07. The firm had revenue of $245.90 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $241.36 million. Smartsheet had a negative trailing twelve-month return on equity of 23.90% and a negative net margin of 15.15%. The business's revenue for the quarter was up 23.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned ($0.30) EPS.
Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. purchased a new stake in Webster Financial Co. (NYSE:WBS  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 20,939 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $790,000.

A number of other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of WBS. Neo Ivy Capital Management bought a new stake in shares of Webster Financial in the second quarter valued at about $32,000. Montag A & Associates Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Webster Financial in the second quarter valued at about $34,000. Harbour Investments Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Webster Financial by 305.8% in the first quarter. Harbour Investments Inc. now owns 905 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $36,000 after purchasing an additional 682 shares in the last quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Webster Financial by 41.6% in the second quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,083 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $41,000 after purchasing an additional 318 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Quarry LP lifted its holdings in shares of Webster Financial by 209.8% in the first quarter. Quarry LP now owns 1,227 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $48,000 after purchasing an additional 831 shares in the last quarter. 86.37% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of brokerages have recently commented on WBS. Raymond James cut their price target on Webster Financial from $51.00 to $49.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Monday, October 23rd. Piper Sandler lifted their target price on Webster Financial from $50.00 to $53.00 in a research report on Tuesday, August 8th. Morgan Stanley lifted their target price on Webster Financial from $49.00 to $51.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Monday. Royal Bank of Canada lowered their target price on Webster Financial from $53.00 to $48.00 in a research report on Tuesday, October 10th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company lowered their target price on Webster Financial from $50.00 to $42.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, October 4th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Webster Financial has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $50.25.

Webster Financial Stock Down 1.7 %

Shares of NYSE:WBS opened at $46.69 on Wednesday. The company has a fifty day moving average of $40.55 and a 200-day moving average of $40.86. The company has a market capitalization of $8.03 billion, a PE ratio of 8.94 and a beta of 1.36. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36, a quick ratio of 0.86 and a current ratio of 0.86. Webster Financial Co. has a 52-week low of $31.03 and a 52-week high of $56.00.

Webster Financial (NYSE:WBS  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 19th. The financial services provider reported $1.55 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.49 by $0.06. The company had revenue of $677.50 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $686.11 million. Webster Financial had a net margin of 24.45% and a return on equity of 13.65%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 1.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.46 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts predict that Webster Financial Co. will post 5.92 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Webster Financial Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 13th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 3rd were issued a dividend of $0.40 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, November 2nd. This represents a $1.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.43%. Webster Financials dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 30.65%.

Webster Financial Company Profile

(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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In a move signaling Swedens path toward NATO, the Scandinavian country has sealed a significant defense cooperation pact with the United States. The bilateral agreement, inked by Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson and US Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III, grants the US access to all of Swedens military bases. Emphasizing bolstered regional security, the pact is crucial in fortifying the nations ties.

Strategic significance of the agreement

The agreement, signed at the Pentagon, is poised to enhance Swedens capacity to receive support from the US in times of crisis or conflict. While access to all 17 military locations is granted, the utilization would prioritize strategic military needs, as articulated by Defense Minister Jonson. The move aligns with Swedens evolving stance on security concerns, especially in the wake of geopolitical tensions in the Baltic Sea region, notably the proximity of Gotland to Russias Kaliningrad.

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NATO aspirations and pending approvals

Swedens aspirations to join NATO have been propelled by regional security shifts, particularly following Russias invasion of Ukraine. While Finland has already entered the alliance, Sweden awaits approval from NATO members Turkey and Hungary. The delay in ratification by these two countries, particularly Turkey, has been attributed to security concerns and geopolitical negotiations.

Integration with NATO and operational alignment

Speaking on the sidelines of the agreement, Defense Minister Jonson underscored Swedens readiness to integrate its military operations with NATO. Jonson emphasized Swedens preparedness for operational and technical synchronization with the alliance, highlighting the nations alignment with NATO standards and previous collaborative endeavors with the US, such as the Silver Arrow exercise.

Swedens contributions and strategic investments

Swedens commitment to defense, showcased by doubling its defense budget and allocating a substantial portion to acquisitions and innovation, reflects its dedication to NATOs objectives. The countrys defense industry, capable of manufacturing various military assets, adds weight to its contributions to the alliance. Moreover, Swedens expertise in intelligence matters concerning Russia further strengthens its potential value to NATO.

Geopolitical implications and regional stability

The evolving geopolitical landscape, particularly Russias ambitions and actions in neighboring countries, remains a focal point for Swedens stance. The country perceives its potential NATO membership as a means to deter aggression and contribute to stabilizing the region. Jonson highlighted the unity of purpose in supporting Ukraine and preventing further aggression from Russia, emphasizing the urgency of NATOs collective response.

Public support and political consensus

The aspiration for NATO membership enjoys significant public backing in Sweden, with a notable majority of the electorate in favor. As reflected in parliamentary seats won by pro-NATO representatives, political consensus signifies a broad alignment with the strategic shift toward NATO integration. Jonson emphasized the electorates recognition of evolving security threats, leading to a paradigm shift in defense strategies.

As Sweden navigates its trajectory toward potential NATO membership, the defense pact with the US is a pivotal milestone. The evolving geopolitical landscape and Swedens strategic investments and public support signify a broader shift in defense paradigms. The nations integration into NATO contributes to regional stability and aligns with a collective effort to address contemporary security challenges.
Derry GAA has pledged its support to the family of murdered GAA official Sean Brown and has called for an end to the ongoing delays into his inquest.

The move comes after it emerged on Friday that the Bellaghy GAA chairman's family are being 'retraumatised' by delays in police making sensitive material available to the inquest.

A barrister representing the family of Sean Brown said their treatment by state agencies was a public shame and a public disgrace.

Des Fahy KC also said it was impossible for the Brown family to escape the conclusion that the state parties are running down the clock ahead of a cut-off point for legacy inquests imposed by new Government legislation.

An amendment to the Legacy Bill includes a proposal to halt inquests that have not reached verdict or finding stage by May next year.

Belfast High Court was told on Friday that the inquest cannot now resume in January as scheduled.

Mr Brown was attacked and beaten by an LVF gang as he locked the gates at Bellaghy Wolfe Tones GAC on May 12 1997.

He was then taken to a country lane near Randalstown where he was shot six times.

Derry GAA has shown its support and is now calling for an end into the ongoing delays concerning Mr Brown's inquest.

Derry GAA Secretary Sean Keane has outlined their support in his report to the annual county convention due to be held at Owenbeg on December 11.

It is now 26 years since the brutal murder of Bellaghy GAA chairman Sean Brown, he wrote.

Throughout that time the trauma of the Brown family has been compounded by the failure of the authorities to conduct a proper inquiry into his death.

Derry GAA stands firm in our support for the Brown family and call for an end to the ongoing delays in the inquest process.

Sean Brown was a faithful servant of the entire community and devoted his life to serving others.

The Brown family deserve better.

The Brown family deserve the support of the entire GAA community, he added.
A preliminary hearing in the inquest into the death of a Derry man shot dead by the British Army on November 24 1978 has heard a claim that the Ministry of Defence were making 'a nonsense of the whole procedure'.

The claim was made by Michael Mansfield KC who represents the family of Patrick Duffy from the Brandywell area who was shot dead in Maureen Avenue after the hearing heard that Ministry of Defence disclosure will not be ready until July next year.

After the hearing was told that the disclosure will not be available until July 8 2024 Mr Mansfield said that he would not describe that date as a joke but said if that date was allowed to stand that was 'the end of the matter'.

He described the actions of the MOD as 'a form of sabotage' as the British Government have set a deadline for May 1 for this type of hearing to be complete.

Mr Mansfield said that if the issue was one of resources then more resources should be made available.

He added that the the issues in this inquest were simple it was about the shooting of an individual by the British Army and it was not an inquiry into the shoot to kill policy.

He said that a more thorough scrutiny of the material should be done to facilitate the disclosure process.

Mr Michael Egan who represents some of the military witnesses said that there were three of them still alive.

He said the issues that had arisen in this inquest was the same as in other inquests and added that people who could deal with the sensitive material were 'thin on the ground'.

Mr Egan said that this was 'a hard stop imposed by parliament' and not the fault of any parties to the hearing.

Mark McEvoy for the Ministry of Defence said the proposed date was 'not a joke' but an indication of the pressure the MOD was under.

The hearing was adjourned until December 14.
HIGHLIGHTS A notable 43% of Indian consumers admitted to falling for 'too good to be true' deals.

Shockingly, 23% of respondents were open to providing credit card details to unknown merchants.

McAfee also highlights technological concerns like the use of artificial intelligence by cybercriminals.

In a revealing study by McAfee Corp., over 7,000 adults across seven countries, including India, were surveyed to understand consumer behavior during the festive shopping season. The study highlighted that a majority of Indian consumers trust online shopping as much as in-person shopping. It also focused on online shopping trust, scams, and vulnerabilities.

Scams and Vulnerabilities in Festive Online Shopping

A notable 43% of Indian consumers admitted to falling for too good to be true deals during the festive season. Consumers trusting easily has led to 54% experiencing online scams, with 65% suffering financial losses of up to 40,000. Shockingly, 23% of respondents were open to providing credit card details to unknown merchants for attractive deals.

Also read: Shocking! Over half of all Indian travellers are victims of online scams, says McAfee

In terms of shopping behavior, theres a clear shift towards digital platforms. According to the report, 91% of Indians planned to shop online during the festive season. Consumer habits show a preference for convenience. This includes, many making online purchases in bed at night (59%), during work hours (37%), at dinner time (28%), and even while using the toilet (10%).

The study also highlights technological concerns like the use of artificial intelligence by cybercriminals. About 95% of the respondents believe that AI has increased the frequency of online scams. Furthermore, 34% find it challenging to distinguish between real and fake messages.

Also read: McAfee reports AI-powered scams, 12 fake texts targeting Indians daily reveal dark side of technology

McAfees Recommendations for Cybersecurity

In response to these findings, Roma Majumder, SVP of Product at McAfee, emphasised the importance of advanced AI to protect yourself against cybercriminals. To safeguard against scams, McAfee advises consumers to be cautious with suspicious emails and messages. You have to think twice before clicking on them, and to use authentic sources for verification. They also recommend using McAfee Scam Protections AI-driven technology to block dangerous links and ensure secure online browsing.
HIGHLIGHTS iQOO is set to launch the iQOO 12 smartphone in India next week.

Ahead of the launch, Amazon has accidentally revealed the pricing of the iQOO 12.

The listings revealed that the 12GB RAM with 256GB storage variant will most likely be sold at 52,999.

iQOO is set to launch the iQOO 12 smartphone in India on December 12, marking it as the countrys first device powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. Before its launch event, the company already revealed numerous details about the device. The Indian version of the flagship phone will be similar to its Chinese counterpart, which made its debut last month. Now, the official pricing of the iQOO 12 has leaked, aligning with earlier leaked information.

The iQOO 12 is set to be available for purchase through Amazon. Accidentally, the e-commerce platform disclosed the pricing details of the upcoming smartphone.

Also read: iQOO 12s pre-booking starts on December 5 and these are the benefits

Its important to note that Amazon has now deleted the price-mentioned listings, However, tipster Sudhanshu Ambhore shared the screenshot of those listings on X (formerly Twitter).

Also read: iQOO 12 camera samples revealed: Take a look at these images from the upgraded camera

The listings revealed that the 12GB RAM with 256GB storage variant will most likely be sold at 52,999, while the 16GB RAM with 512GB storage could have a price tag of 57,999.

Anticipated launch day offers, including potential bank discounts, might further reduce the smartphones final price for consumers.

The iQOO 12 will be the first smartphone to debut in India with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. It will house a 50MP primary camera, a 64MP Periscope Telephoto sensor, and a 50MP Ultrawide lens.

iQOO is also promising a display with 3000 nits of peak brightness. It could feature a 6.78-inch 144Hz LTPO AMOLED display. Moreover, the smartphone is said to have 120-watt fast charging support.

Moreover, the iQOO 12 handset will come with a dedicated Super computing chip Q1, which will help to achieve 144 FPS game frame interpolation.
HIGHLIGHTS Xiaomi revealed that the Redmi 13C event film was shot on the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus.

The new 'Note' series smartphone will make it to India in January 2024.

For photography, the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus boasts a 200-megapixel OIS main camera.

Today, Xiaomi unveiled the first 5G smartphone in its C series, namely Redmi 13C 5G. This is a budget-friendly smartphone that was launched at a starting price of 9,999, including a launch discount. Apart from launching the Redmi 13C 5G, Xiaomi has also announced a piece of exciting news for India at the end of the event. The Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus, which was launched in China in September, is all set to debut in India soon. The Chinese brand has announced the Indian launch timeline of the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus.

Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus launch timeline

In the end, Xiaomi also revealed that the Redmi 13C event film was shot on the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus. Furthermore, it was announced that the new Note series smartphone will make it to India in January 2024. However, the exact date is yet to be disclosed. Lets talk about its specifications since the smartphone is already available in China.

Also read: Redmi Note 13 Pro+ is going global soon, reveals FCC: Here are the specs

Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus specifications

Firstly, talking about its display, the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus is equipped with a 6.67-inch OLED display that comes with 1220 x 2712 pixels resolution. The display supports 68-billion colour, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and up to 120Hz refresh rate. It is also protected by the Gorilla Glass Victus.

Next, it is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Ultra chipset. This processor is paired with up to 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. The Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus runs on MIUI 14 skin based on Android 13OS. However, I am guessing it would come to India with Android 14-based skin.

Also read: Redmi Note 13 Pro series to get 200MP camera and MediaTek Dimensity 7200-Ultra SoC

For photography, the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus boasts a 200-megapixel OIS main camera, an 8-megapixel Ultrawide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro lens. On the front, there is a 16-megapixel selfie shooter.

Speaking of the battery, it is backed by a 5000mAh battery that supports up to 120-watt fast charging support.
HIGHLIGHTS Xiaomi might be losing its market share in India and Samsung is catching up on that.

Xiaomi has had the market ruler title for a while now.

Samsung is putting in a lot of effort and pushing from all fronts to gain more in the Indian smartphone market.

When we talk about who is leading the smartphone market in India, I am sure Xiaomi comes to your mind. And yes that was true too. For a long time, Xiaomi has been ruling the Indian smartphone market with the many categories of smartphones that it offers. Everywhere you can spot someone owning a Xiaomi smartphone and the company keeps up by releasing new smartphones over and over again. But now, it seems that the company is losing the title and it is slipping away to South Korean tech giant Samsung.

A recent report citing Counterpoint Research revealed that Xiaomi might be losing its market share in India and Samsung is catching up on that. For the uninitiated, Xiaomi has had the market ruler title for a while now. However, recent predictions believe that Samsung will take over 18% of the market volume by the end of the calendar year 2023, according to a report by Business Standard. So, Samsung will straight up take over Xiaomi and become the market leader if the prediction turns out to be true.

Also read: Samsung beats Apple as smartphone shipments decline by 8-percent: Counterpoint

Further, the prediction revealed that Xiaomis market share will fall to 15% by the end of calendar year 2023. Not only will Xiami lose to Samsung, but will also further fall to the third spot, as per the prediction. The reason behind this could be the challenges and scrutiny that the company had to face from investigative agencies. All this turns out in Samsungs favour as it is all set to make a comeback as the market leader.

Also read: Counterpoints Q2 2022 Market Monitor report documents Samsung and HONORs growth

Now for this, Samsung is putting in a lot of effort and pushing from all fronts to gain more in the Indian smartphone market. The company has a well-thought-out business strategy in place. The Galaxy A series is for offline channels, the Galaxy F series for online retail through Flipkart, and the Galaxy M series on Amazon. On top of that, its flagship smartphone series the Galaxy S and the Galaxy Z are also contributing to its market share in India.
HIGHLIGHTS The Samsung Galaxy S25 series is more than a year away from release.

Samsung might be planning to say goodbye to the 10-megapixel telephoto sensor with 10x optical zoom.

Samsung could replace it with a larger 50-megapixel telephoto sensor with 5x optical zoom.

South Korean tech giant Samsungs next flagship series, the Samsung Galaxy S 24 series is highly awaited. The rumour mill suggests that this year Samsung will surpass its timeline and the flagship series will launch early. It is expected that the smartphones in this series will be announced on 17 January 2024, which is just next month. Even though the Galaxy S24 series is still not out, we hear that Samsung has already started to work on its successor, the Samsung Galaxy S25 series. A tipster has shared certain key details, lets take a look and find out more about it.

As I mentioned previously, the Samsung Galaxy S24 series could be unveiled in January 2024. This means that the Samsung Galaxy S25 series is more than a year away from release. Now, a new leak suggests that Samsung will increase its camera quality significantly with the Samsung Galaxy S25 series.

Also read: Samsung Galaxy S24 will reportedly arrive with a lot of funky colours: More details here

The leak suggests that with the Galaxy S25 series, Samsung is planning to say goodbye to the 10-megapixel telephoto sensor with 10x optical zoom and replace it with a larger 50-megapixel telephoto sensor with 5x optical zoom.

Tipster Revegnus, who is quite spot on with his leaks related to Samsung, took to X (formerly Twitter) to share that Samsung might be ditching the 50-megapixel Samsung ISOCELL GN3 sensor on the Samsung Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+ smartphones. The ISOCELL GN3 sensor was first paired with the Samsung Galaxy S23 and the Samsung Galaxy S25+ smartphones. The upcoming Samsung Galaxy S24 and the Samsung Galaxy S24+ will continue to use this particular sensor.

Revegnus further adds that Samsung could be collaborating with Sony to use the Sony sensors on the Samsung Galaxy S25 and the Samsung Galaxy S25+ smartphones. We are not sure but these could either be Sony IMX 890 or LYT-700 sensors.

Also read: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra may lack 10x zoom camera

Now coming to the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra in particular, Revegnus suggests that Samsung could be working on a 1-inch sensor for this. The camera module on the S25 Ultra could include a 200-megapixel sensor with a sensor size of 1 inch, a pixel pitch of 0.8m, and a Horizontal and Vertical Dual Pixel Autofocus (H/V DPAF). It will also offer 4X zoom. This would mean a significant upgrade.

Lastly, a tip also suggests that Samsung could pack its S25 series smartphones with an M13-based display instead of the M11-based display. And the Samsung Galaxy S25 could carry Exynos 2500 based on Samsungs 3nm process in certain markets.
WAT Medical enhances homecare medical technology with neuromodulation-based devices

Medication has been the most common but not always the best way to treat debilitating conditions like motion sickness and migraine. Vancouver-based WAT Medical Enterprise uses neuromodulation to develop medical technologies, offering the public an alternative. Its non-invasive therapy options have become available in Asia this year.

According to Dr. Peter Ji, WAT Medical's co-founder and product manager, although plenty of medical technologies are accessible, the homecare medical technology - one can use at home - has been insufficient. Moreover, medication may produce the intended results for some people, but it could also add burden to others due to the side effects.

Ji said WAT Medical aims to deliver therapy options without medication. The company's core technology is based on neuromodulation, using target electrical impulses to trigger specific physiological responses in the human body's central nervous system.

Using electrical impulses to tackle motion sickness, migraine

WAT Medical has launched EmeTerm, an anti-nausea wristband, and HeadaTerm, an anti-migraine device.

Ji explained that the anti-nausea wristband sends electrical impulses modulated to target the vomiting center in the brain. The vomiting center sends out signals to the gastrointestinal system, inducing contraction and vomiting when one gets carsick or experiences drug-induced vomiting and other conditions.

Ji said the device uses electrical pulses to shut down signals from the vomiting center to achieve an anti-nausea effect.

The anti-migraine device, which is put on one's forehead, also leverages specifically target electrical impulses to stimulate the human body's central nervous system, according to Ji. He said electrical pulses will induce more release of neurotransmitters, including serotonin and endorphins, and hormones like norepinephrine to combat migraine and increase pain tolerance.

The two products are available in the US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries. WAT Medical also began to sell the devices in China earlier this year.

Ji said the company sells about 100,000 anti-nausea wristbands annually, with most sales occurring in the US.

"Even though it may appear at first glance that motion sickness is a pretty niche market, there's a pretty high demand for it," he added.

WAT Medical is seeking the US Food and Drug Administration's over-the-counter approval for the anti-migraine device, which is available through prescriptions in the country. Ji said the company anticipates receiving the approval in early 2024. It has no doubt that the device will achieve a greater sales number than the anti-nausea solution once it becomes over-the-counter available.

Creating consumer devices containing medical components

According to Ji, WAT Medical improves the current prototype and device constantly, even if they have hit the market. He said the company is working on integrating the anti-nausea wristband with a smartwatch so people can use it as a medical device and day-to-day wearable technology. The new product is slated to launch in June 2024.

The effort of designing a smartwatch with an anti-nausea function shows how WAT Medical is targeting the sweet spot between a medical and a consumer device. Ji said the goal is to make users not feel like they are wearing a medical device.

"We want them to, hopefully, wear a watch that can serve their day-to-day needs but also has an anti-nausea function if that is what they need at the moment," he said.

The approach will also benefit WAT Medical's sales in online platforms besides pharmacies and hospitals. Ji said the company foresees most of its upcoming technologies as a consumer device with a medical component.

One of the products that WAT Medical has been developing is a device using neuromodulation to lower blood pressure. Ji said the product has shown promising efficacy and is undergoing clinical trials in China. The company is looking to receive FDA approval and introduce the device to the market by 2024.

WAT Medical has conducted most of its research and development in Canada and produced products in China. The US has been the company's primary market, according to Ji.

As its medical solutions become available in China, WAT Medical is ready to expand its footprints to Taiwan and form partnerships. Ji said the company is interested in contacting distributors in Taiwan. It is also looking for clinical trial partners. He said WAT Medical's experiences in the North American market would facilitate its expansion in Asia.

Dr. Peter Ji is WAT Medicals co-founder and product manager. Credit: WAT Medical
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The Mater Hospital Foundation has this week launched its new Words of Light website, to support patients in the Mater Hospital this Christmas. The Foundation is inviting individuals and businesses across Co. Louth to light a virtual star and leave a special message for loved ones, those spending Christmas in hospital or hospital teams working over the festive season.

Lighting a star couldnt be easier  simply visit www.materfoundation.ie/ wordsoflight and choose your special star. When you donate, you will receive a unique link to your star and message and a graphic highlighting your generous support, which you can download and share on your own social media channels to inspire others to follow your lead.

Businesses that light a star can also upload their logo to highlight their companys support. To acknowledge each company's generosity, the Mater Hospital Foundation will provide a special email signature graphic, and a downloadable workplace poster.

Funds raised during this campaign will be put to work where they are needed most to support patients across the Mater Hospital. From Comfort Care Packs for patients who cannot afford their own to life-saving equipment for critically-ill patients in ICU, and so much more besides, this campaign will help make a real and tangible difference to patients from across Ireland.

The Mater Hospital Foundation exists to give every patient, and every family that loves them, the very best care at the Mater Hospital.

Through the kindness of its supporters, the Foundation continues to invest in the future of the hospital by funding advanced state-of the-art medical equipment, new services and hospital redevelopment, research and innovation initiatives, and by providing patient, family and staff support when it is most needed.

In 2022, thanks to the kindness of its supporters, the Mater Hospital Foundation invested more than 3.3m in life-changing hospital projects, including two new Cardiac ECHO Machines, a new ECMO machine for ICU and a new cutting-edge surgical device for liver surgery. It invested in a wide range of patient support services and supported the refurbishment of the hospitals Breast Health Unit.

Commenting on Words of Light, Mary Moorhead, Chief Executive of the Mater Hospital Foundation says, This Christmas, make a difference in the lives of our patients.

"Donate on our Words of Light website to light a virtual star over the Mater Hospital and leave a message for your loved ones, those who will spend Christmas in hospital or our hospital teams working over the festive season.

"Your words of light and support will bring comfort and hope to those in hospital and your star will proudly shine a light on your generous support.

To light your virtual star, simply visit www.materfoundation.ie/wordsoflight and help bring joy to patients in the Mater Hospital this Christmas.
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Castlebellingham man, Philip Price recently returned from Ukraine where he journeyed with 15 others to deliver aid.

On Friday 24th November the eight vehicles, six four wheel drives, a minibus and a large van and two large trailers left for Rosslare port.

On arrival in France on Saturday they drove over 500km to the Belgian border.

At 4.30am on Sunday morning the convoy drove approximately 1000 km across Belgium and Germany to the Polish border.

Monday saw them then travel the width of Poland, another 600km.

On Tuesday morning the convoy arrived at the Ukraine border and at this stage there was about a foot of snow which combined with some procedural delays saw the convoy being held up for eight hours at the border.

In the dark they went to a prearranged meeting point where they were met by a Catholic priest from near the front along with a number of soldiers and civilians.

Each of the Irish were presented with a fluffy heart made by children from a village near the war front with one side depicting the Irish flag and on the reverse the Ukraine flag.

One of the group, Sandy Blakey from Fermoy has hosted two women and their children since the outbreak of the war.

The husband of one of the ladies travelled 640k non stop to meet him for the first time and to hug him and say thanks for looking after his family in what was a very emotional scene.

Having handed over all aid including 50 wheelchairs, 70 pairs of crutches, firemans clothes, boots, fire extinguishers and assorted aid for children and adults, documents were signed and the vehicles were left with the locals.

The 4x4s headed to the front and the other vehicles were to be used for ferrying personnel around.

The Irish party made their way back to Krakow in Poland from where they flew home to Ireland.
Prepared by Nadya Wildmann, Beatrice Scheubel, Luisa Fascione, Georg Leitner

Efforts made by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) to reform financial regulation in response to the global financial crisis (GFC) included introducing regulatory standards for liquidity risk. During the GFC, several banks failed because they had significant maturity mismatches on their balance sheets. These banks did not have sufficient liquid assets to match liability outflows. The ensuing confidence crisis caused a widespread liquidity crunch in the interbank market. In response, the BCBS reformed its regulatory standards, introducing a new measure aimed at ensuring the short-term resilience of the liquidity risk profile of banks.

The BCBS established the LCR standard in 2013. The LCR aims to ensure that banks maintain a liquidity buffer on their balance sheets which can be liquidated quickly during a period of liquidity stress.[1] In particular, the LCR is a forward-looking measure which requires banks to hold a sufficient stock of high-quality liquid assets (HQLA) that can be converted into cash easily and immediately to survive a period of significant liquidity stress lasting 30 calendar days:

S t o c k o f H Q L A T o t a l n e t c a s h o u t f l o w s o v e r t h e n e x t 30 c a l e n d a r d a y s  100 % .

The EU implemented the LCR in line with the Basel Framework requirements and applies it to all banking institutions in the EU, by default at both consolidated and individual level. Following a three-year phase-in period, the minimum LCR requirement of 100% came into effect on 1 January 2018.[2]

The March 2023 banking turmoil raised the question of whether the LCR works as intended. The stress scenario in the LCR entails a liquidity shock which is calibrated based on the experience of the global financial crisis. The liquidity shock constitutes a significant  but not worst-case  stress scenario.[3] For example, for stable retail deposits, which on average constitute the largest share of deposits for significant euro area banks, the LCR assumes an outflow rate of 5% for its 30-day liquidity stress scenario. During the March 2023 banking turmoil, actual deposit outflows for the affected banks in the United States (mostly uninsured deposits) and Switzerland (mostly non-financial corporate deposits) were significantly higher than the LCR run-off assumptions for those deposits. As highlighted in Table A, Silicon Valley Bank lost 85% of its total deposits over a two-day period. For First Republic Bank and Credit Suisse, total deposit outflows stood at 57% and 21% respectively over a 90-day period.[4] It should be noted that total deposit outflows as reported by the US and Swiss authorities may not be perfectly comparable with the net deposit outflows available in European banking supervision reporting. Correspondingly, the BCBS is currently examining whether specific features of the Basel Framework, including liquidity risk, performed as intended during the turmoil.[5] This is especially warranted in an environment in which higher and more rapid outflow rates may also be expected in the future due to the digitalisation of banking and the potential sentiment-amplifying impact of social media.

Table A Cash outflows and selected categories of retail and wholesale deposits, March 2023 Bank Observed outflow rate Period Silicon Valley Bank 85% 2 days First Republic Bank 57% 90 days Credit Suisse 21% 90 days Average (net) outflows for the euro area SIs 4.2% 30 days LCR assumption Run-off rate Period Retail stable 5% 30 days Retail less stable 10% 30 days Operational 25% 30 days Non-Financial Corporate 40% 30 days Sources: BCBS report on the 2023 banking turmoil, BCBS run-off factors and ECB calculations.

Notes: For the column observed outflow rate, for significant institutions (SIs) supervised by the ECB, the value reported is average net outflows of total deposits over March-May 2023.

The LCR is not designed to cover all tail events involving deposit outflows, such as bank runs: instead, it should ensure that banks can withstand a certain liquidity stress scenario. The LCR is designed to be a minimum standard for liquidity risk and has, as such, only limited early warning properties to identify extreme peaks in liquidity stress. Banks are expected to conduct their own internal stress tests to ascertain their required level of liquidity beyond this minimum.

Moreover, some liquidity risks, such as funding concentration or intraday liquidity risk, are not explicitly captured in the LCR, which is why the BCBS has introduced specific liquidity monitoring tools for supervisors. These tools can help supervisors to better assess a banks liquidity risk profile, although their availability may vary across BCBS jurisdictions.[6] Supervisors can apply more stringent liquidity requirements under Pillar 2, depending on the banks liquidity risk profile.

The March turmoil has not resulted in significantly higher outflow rates for institutions covered by ECB banking supervision. Since January 2018, when the LCR came into force in the EU, significant banks LCRs stood comfortably above the minimum of 100%. Chart 1, panel a) shows that the average LCR for significant institutions in the euro area has remained above 150% since the coronavirus (COVID-19) period, helping to contain the fallout from recent banking stress in the United States and Switzerland. Following the events of March, contagion fears remained short lived amid solid euro area bank fundamentals. Significant institutions in the euro area did not experience considerably higher net outflow rates since March 2023.

For significant banks supervised by the ECB, the available evidence confirms that the LCR run-off rates covered most significant net deposit outflows during stress episodes between 2016 and 2023. Chart 1, panel b) shows all observed net outflows over the whole observation period for the stable retail deposit class, which is one of the most significant categories by share of total deposits.[7] Since data on gross deposit outflows are not reported in the supervisory statistics, net outflows constitute a useful proxy for gross outflows when net flows are significantly negative, as it can then be assumed that the relative importance of gross deposit inflows is more limited. Around 92% of all observed net outflow rates were covered by the LCR for that category between 2016 and 2023. Further analysis of net retail outflows during stress periods highlights that few net outflows were higher than the corresponding LCR run-off factor, particularly during the COVID-19 period. Some outliers were also recorded for other selected stress periods. Chart A, panel c) shows that the median and the interquartile range (where 50% of net outflows are located) are larger during the COVID-19 period for euro area significant institutions, with more observations above the median. Taken together, these observations call for further analysis of deposit outflows to gain a better understanding of the underlying drivers.

Chart A LCR and net deposit outflows for euro area banks have both been in line with their respective regulatory thresholds a) LCR over time, 2016-2023 b) Observed net outflows  stable retail deposits, 2016-23 c) Observed net outflows  total deposits, COVID-19 period and banking turmoil (percentages) (y-axis: number of observations, x-axis: net outflows, percentages) (percentages) Source: ECB calculations on Supervisory Data.

Notes: Panel a: The solid blue line shows the average LCR, where the total amount of deposits considered for the calculation of LCR outflows is used as a weight for aggregation. Panel b: Values are cut at the 97th percentile. Net outflows are calculated as the absolute value of negative monthly relative changes in the stock value of the respective deposit classes. By comparing deposit amounts between month-ends the net outflow rate per deposit is computed (the absolute figures may also include new deposits obtained during the month). The red solid line marks the Basel-calibrated outflow rate for retail stable deposits (5%). Panel c: Values are cut at the 97th percentile. Net outflows are calculated as the absolute value of negative monthly relative changes in the stock value of total deposits. By comparing deposit amounts between month-ends the net outflow rate per deposit is computed (the absolute figures may also include new deposits obtained during the month). The crisis period boxplot pulls together data for the first three months of (i) the COVID-19 pandemic and (ii) the banking turmoil of 2023.

The March turmoil highlighted the impact of tail events for which the LCR has not been designed. The early identification of outliers reflecting tail risks is therefore essential and may require more granular and higher-frequency reporting during normal times. Comparing the net outflow rates during the March turmoil for significant institutions and affected banks suggests that for affected banks the March events may have constituted one of the tail events for which the LCR has not been designed.[8] Consequently, the ongoing discussion should shift towards the need for better supervisory metrics to detect such tail risks. This may require more granular and higher-frequency supervisory reporting and monitoring.

In the EU, ECB Banking Supervision and the national supervisors already have the authority to request additional and higher-frequency reporting from banks for supervisory purposes. Banks located in the EU are required to report the LCR to supervisors on a monthly basis, so data typically refer to the situation at the end of the respective month.[9] However, the supervisor has the option of increasing reporting frequency to weekly, or even daily.[10] As an example of this, ECB Banking Supervision has recently initiated weekly liquidity reporting following the March turmoil. To enhance the pre-emptive and early identification of tail risks, additional supervisory scrutiny could include the more frequent reporting of liquidity and funding data, even in a business-as-usual environment, as well as additional standardised stress indicators to complement the analytical toolbox available to supervisors under Pillar 2.

This box has shed light on the design, purpose and limitations of the LCR and has highlighted the need to gain a better understanding of the behaviour of deposit outflows. The LCR was designed as a minimum requirement to protect banks against potential failure caused by liquidity mismatches in their balance sheets. The LCR should not, therefore, be expected to serve as an early warning tool or a remedy for the type of rapid, extreme deposit outflows observed during the March banking turmoil in the United States and Switzerland. The March events, however, have served as an indication that there could be merit in reviewing and better understanding depositor behaviour. In particular, the use in banking of digitalisation and social media could affect depositor behaviour and might have a longer-lasting effect on run-off rates.

Looking ahead, buffer usability concerns warrant further monitoring to ensure the effective functioning of the LCR framework. While the LCR was not designed to cover tail events, its use as a buffer can provide banks and authorities time to take appropriate actions. However, the BCBSs report on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 experience provides an indication that banks might, in practice, be reluctant to use their liquidity buffers in times of liquidity stress (i.e. to allow their LCR to fall below 100%).[11] Reasons for such behaviour include potential market stigma, uncertainty about supervisory response or a desire to maintain a certain level of reserves to withstand potential further stress. However, if banks are unwilling to use liquidity buffers this might lead them to engage in exaggerated defensive measures, which could negatively affect the vital services banks provide to the economy.
Prepared by Alessandro Magi, Georg Leitner, Balazs Zsamboki, Markus Behn

Macroprudential capital buffers are a key tool in the regulatory framework for banks, helping to ensure a stable and resilient financial system. Macroprudential capital buffers sit on top of minimum requirements, providing an extra layer of capital. Banks can use these buffers to absorb losses in times of stress without having to recapitalise or deleverage, e.g. by cutting back lending to the real economy. While there are a range of buffers with different objectives, they are all intended to serve as shock absorbers for banks, thus contributing to the resilience of the financial system. One differentiating feature between the different buffers is that some of them can be released by authorities  e.g. the Countercyclical Capital Buffer (CCyB) or the Systemic Risk Buffer (SyRB)  while others are meant to be kept stable over the course of the financial cycle, including the Capital Conservation Buffer (CCoB) and buffers for global or other systemically important institutions, (G-SIIs/O-SIIs).[1]

In order to fulfil their objectives, buffers must be usable to absorb losses in times of stress, but experience shows that banks may be either unwilling or unable to fully utilise their buffer range. Generally, two sorts of obstacles to buffer usability have been observed.[2] First, banks tend to be unwilling to use their non-released capital buffers, because operating within the buffer range implies a breach of the Maximum Distributable Amount (MDA)[3] threshold which comes with negative consequences such as restrictions on paying out profits or associated market stigma effects, which banks may want to avoid. Such unwillingness to use capital buffers was observed, for instance, during the COVID-19 episode.[4] Second, it has been found that banks are sometimes also unable to fully use their capital buffers as doing so could result in breaching other parallel applicable minimum requirements, such as the leverage ratio or the minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities (MREL).[5] This may be the case in particular for banks with lower risk-weights, for which the leverage ratio provides an effective backstop, in line with its distinct policy objective.[6]

More macroprudential space through a higher amount of releasable capital buffers can help mitigate some concerns about buffer usability. Following a release of capital buffers, banks can operate with lower capital ratios without breaching the MDA threshold. This mitigates obstacles to buffer usability arising from market stigma or distribution restrictions.[7] Lessons learnt from the pandemic are consistent with this assertion and have intensified a discussion on creating more macroprudential space through more releasable buffers. As a result, authorities in the banking union have recently been actively implementing releasable buffers.[8] While this is a very welcome development that certainly helps to enhance the effectiveness of the framework, concerns about banks ability to fully use a released buffer may nevertheless persist because of parallel requirements, as explained above.

A comprehensive measure of effective macroprudential space through more releasable buffers needs to account for banks potentially being unable to fully use capital freed up by a buffer release. This focus article proposes a simple and broad quantitative indicator to measure effective macroprudential space.[9] Specifically, the indicator calculates the nominal amount of risk-based capital buffers that authorities can release and that banks can use without breaching parallel minimum requirements. It can thus be understood as a measure of effectively releasable capital buffers, expressed as a percentage of banks risk-weighted assets.[10]

Chart A Releasable capital buffers and the indicator of macroprudential space through effectively releasable buffers A comparison in different scenarios (releasable buffers in % of risk-weighted assets) Source: Supervisory data, Buffer Usability Simulation Tool (USIT).

Notes: The macroprudential space indicator (blue line) is defined as the nominal amount of effective releasable buffers (buffer usability of both CCyB and SyRB with regard to the leverage ratio) as a percentage of risk-weighted assets (RWA), which is the basis for the application of the risk-based capital requirements. The yellow line shows the average (institution-specific) amount of CCyB and SyRB as a percentage of RWA available. The right-hand chart shows how the baseline outcome would change if a 1% positive neutral CCyB was introduced. Thus the figure illustrates that it would be possible to use this indicator to monitor macroprudential space and to assess policy options. It should be noted that the usability of releasable buffers is very bipolar at the bank level, with banks either able to fully use their releasable buffers, or not able to use them at all.

The evolution of the proposed indicator illustrates that parallel requirements matter when assessing the available macroprudential space. The left-hand figure in Chart A above highlights that macroprudential space would have been overestimated if assessed only based on the amount of releasable capital buffers.[11] The proposed indicator of effective macroprudential space is lower in all observed periods.[12] On average, before the pandemic (2016 Q3-2019 Q4), effectively releasable buffers were 10 basis points lower than overall releasable buffers. A positive neutral CCyB of 1% is one of the options to enhance macroprudential space discussed in ECB (2022). If such a CCyB had been in place during the above-mentioned pre-pandemic period, the overall amount of releasable buffers  and therefore banks resilience  would have increased. However, the discrepancy between total and effectively releasable buffers would have been greater in absolute terms (on average 22 basis points, as shown in Chart A, right-hand panel).[13]

Going forward, the proposed indicator of effectively releasable capital buffers can help to inform related policy discussions and may be enhanced further. The indicator is useful for authorities wishing to assess the extent to which the macroprudential capital buffers in place are effectively releasable and hence can have the intended effect. It can also help to inform broader policy discussions on further increasing macroprudential space[14] or addressing overlaps in requirements.[15] The indicator will be easy to compute: the ECB makes the tools for its calculation available to the European Systemic Risk Board (ESRB) community by means of an updated version of the USIT toolkit.[16] Going forward, further extension of the indicator may be considered, e.g. to also consider the effects of MREL, depending on data availability.[17]

Importantly, this focus article only considers constraints on effective macroprudential space stemming from the application of the leverage ratio. In practice, there are also other factors that can constrain the full use of capital released under the risk-based framework. For example, banks generally wish to maintain a safety margin on top of minimum requirements. The safety margin tends to increase in more challenging macro-financial conditions and thus has the potential to trigger procyclical adjustments by banks.[18] In addition, market pressure, fear of rating downgrades, or anticipation of future buffer reinstatement may constrain banks willingness to accept a decline in capital ratios, particularly when they are already at lower levels.[19] Thus, even the measure of effectively releasable buffers presented in this article may still overestimate the amount of effectively available macroprudential space. Authorities may wish to take this account when deciding on the calibration of releasable buffers.

References

Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (2021), Early lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic on the Basel reforms, Bank for International Settlements.

Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (2022), Buffer usability and cyclicality in the Basel framework, Bank for International Settlements.

Behn, M.; Rancoita, E. and Rodriguez dAcri, C. (2020), Macroprudential capital buffers  objectives and usability, Macroprudential Bulletin, ECB, October.

Behn, M.; Pereira, A.; Pirovano, M.; Testa, A. (2023), A positive neutral rate for the countercyclical capital buffer  state of play in the banking union, Macroprudential Bulletin, ECB, April.

Berrospide, J.M., Gupta, A. and Seay, M.P. (2021), Un-used Bank Capital Buffers and Credit Supply Shocks at SMEs during the Pandemic, Finance and Economics Discussion Series, No 2021-043, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Washington.

Couaillier, C. (2021), What are banks actual capital targets Working Paper Series, No 2618, ECB, Frankfurt am Main, December.

Couaillier, C., Lo Duca, M., Reghezza, A. and Rodriguez dAcri, C. (2022a), Caution: do not cross! Capital buffers and lending in Covid-19 times, Working Paper Series, No 2644, ECB, Frankfurt am Main, February.

Couaillier, C., Reghezza, A., Rodriguez DAcri, C. and Scopelliti, A. (2022b), How to release capital requirements during a pandemic? Evidence for euro area banks, Working Paper Series, No 2720, ECB, Frankfurt am Main, September.

De Bosio, R., Loiacono, G. (2023) Measures of banks capital buffer usability under prudential and resolution requirements in the Banking Union, Working Paper Series, No 2, Single Resolution Board.

European Central Bank (2022), ECBs reply to the Commission Call for Advice on the Macroprudential review, Annex 2.

European Systemic Risk Board (2021), Report of the Analytical Task Force on the overlap between capital buffers and minimum requirements.

Leitner, G.; Magi, A.; Dvorak M.; Zsamboki, B (2023): How usable are capital buffers? An empirical analysis of the interaction between capital buffers and leverage ratio since 2016 Occasional Paper Series, No 329, ECB, Frankfurt am Main, September.
CALLS have been made for increased garda numbers in Mahon and Blackrock.

Speaking in the Dail last week the Sinn Fein TD for Cork South-Central, Donnchadh O Laoghaire, called on Tanaiste Micheal Martin to ensure that communities and towns in Cork are safe by ensuring Cork has enough gardai on the beat.

In the last three weeks there have been two shooting incidents in the City and very many more serious incidents, said Mr O Laoghaire.

Despite the best efforts of local gardai, under Minister McEntee, communities in Cork city do not have enough gardai on the beat.

In 2009, there were 31 gardai in Mahon Garda Station, just down the road from you, he added.

That has gone down to 22 gardai and now to only 17 gardai.

This month, as I told you last week, Cork only got 1 of the 126 Gardai who came out of Templemore. A single one!

Your Minister for Justice is letting communities in Cork and across the State down.

Meanwhile, Labour Party candidate Peter Horgan also highlighted the need for more gardai in Blackrock.

In a statement, Mr Horgan, along with fellow Labour candidate Laura Harmon, highlighted figures available from Garda HQ, which show that Cork's southside stations number at 521 gardai, the lowest in three years.

Despite repeated warnings and mounting evidence highlighting the severity of the issue, the government has failed to prioritise the improvement of conditions for guards and make the profession more attractive, Mr Horgan said.

Talk to any garda and you'll soon pick up the reality they face on the ground.

The communities of Blackrock and Douglas are growing and expanding but the numbers of gardai are not.

People in Cork city want to feel safe and they want to feel secure in their own homes and on our streets".

"The stellar work done by the current complement of community gardai is being hampered by the lack of resources and attention from Dublin," he added."
LORD OF THE DANCE star Michael Flatley and his family are devastated at having to leave their Co Cork period mansion after it was claimed a hazardous chemical residue was detected in the period property, the High Court has heard.

The 65-year-old star claims that he, his wife Niamh, and their son Michael St James cannot reside at Castlehyde, outside Fermoy, where he has invested over 29m since he acquired it in 1999.

Mr Flatley says it will cost 25m and take two years to remedy the problem.

In a statement to the court, Mr Flatley says that his family have all suffered ill health since moving back to Castlehyde after remediation works.

I believe I was one of the fittest people in Ireland, and despite the same, I developed cancer, he said.

In High Court proceedings, Mr Flatley is suing the Austin Newport Group Limited, the main contractor that carried out remediation works on the property after a fire in 2016, and the insurers of Castlehyde, Am Amlin Underwriting Ltd, AXA XL Underwriting Ltd, and Hamilton Managing Agency Ltd.

The entertainer is seeking damages from those parties claiming among other things alleged negligence and alleged breach of health and safety regulations and building regulations.

He has also brought proceedings against David Cushion, who the court heard had been his accountant, and broker who had allegedly arranged insurance.

In the proceedings, Mr Flatley also seeks judgment in the sum of 25m.

The court heard that last October, the Flatleys left their home after experts conducting routine maintenance of the house detected alleged high and unsafe levels of chloride residue from PVC on the walls and furniture of the property.

Mr Flatleys counsel, Ronnie Hudson, instructed by solicitor Max Mooney, said it is their case that the residue came from the combustion of PVC during a fire at the property in 2016, and is carcinogenic.

Counsel said that Mr Flatley claims that the main contractor, which was hired by the insurers to do remedial works, was allegedly aware of a problem with the residue while it was working on the property in 2016, but allegedly did not disclose this information to his client.

Counsel said that an email dated August 5, 2016, allegedly sent to the defendants, was recently discovered in a box of other documents allegedly left in Castlehyde.

It stated that unacceptably high levels of chloride content from the combustion of PVC had been detected, and would have an adverse effect on metal components in the property, counsel said.

Counsel said it is Mr Flatleys case that the alleged issue concerning the PVC residue should have been known about.

In his proceedings, Mr Flatley claims the remediation works carried out were allegedly defective, done in an alleged negligent manner, and he claims that defects, including the PVC residue were allegedly hidden from him.

Counsel said that in 2018, arising out of the damage caused by the fire, the insurers brought proceedings seeking damages against other parties that had carried out works on the property in 2006/2007.

Those proceedings, which were brought in Mr Flatleys name, were settled following a mediation.

As part of his latest action, Mr Flatley wants parts of that settlement agreement set aside.

Counsel said that his international superstar and multi-award winning client and his family are devastated and distraught over having to leave their home.

The matter came before Mr Justice Liam Kennedy in the High Court yesterday.

Following an ex parte application to the court the judge said that he was satisfied to grant the plaintiff permission to serve the proceedings on the defendants which are all based in the UK.

Mr Justice Kennedy said that at this stage, he was not prepared to grant an injunction requiring some of the defendants to preserve any reports they may have on the works allegedly carried out.

The judge noted Mr Flatleys concerns on this issue that documents may be destroyed but said that there was insufficient evidence before the court that would allow it to grant such an order.

The case will return before the court at a later date.
90 per cent of derelict site levies in Cork city have been unpaid this year, a meeting of the Cork City Joint Policing Committee was told.

Chief Executive of Cork City Council Ann Doherty told the meeting that the council received just 10% of an estimated 1.1 million in fines it levied this year on owners of derelict sites in the city.

Though invoices totaling 1,109,324 were issued to owners in 2023, just over 102,000 has been collected since January by Cork City Council, the JPC heard.

There are 147 sites on the Derelict Site Register, up from 109 in 2022, and the local authority is also currently in the process of adding a further 55 sites to the Register.

Under the Derelict Sites Act of 1990, local authorities must collect a charge of 7% of the value of a derelict property each year that it remains derelict, but the issue of unpaid levies is a long-running issue in both Cork city and county.

Only 3,300 was disclosed by Cork County Council to The Echo as being collected in derelict site levies in 2022, despite 11,994 vacant properties reported in the census.

Padraig Rice, a local election candidate for the Social Democrats, told The Echo: "It is utterly unacceptable that 90% of derelict site levies in Cork are not collected.

We constantly hear that the Council doesn't have funding for basic services, yet it doesn't collect the money it is owed. It's mind-boggling.

"We have a big problem with vacancy and dereliction. These empty houses must be turned into homes for families.

One way to do that is to tax people who leave houses vacant or derelict. This policy will only work if the money is actually collected.

The fact that 90% of the levies weren't collected is more evidence that the government is not taking the housing shortage seriously."

Cork-based founders of Anois, Frank OConnor and Jude Sherry, have been highlighting the issues of dereliction and vacancy in Cork for some years, and recently called for the collection of all levies to be taken over by Revenue.

Mr OConnor told the Echo last month: The amounts collected by Cork City Council are far too low and do not represent the scale of dereliction and vacancy in the city.

Widespread dereliction costs the community as taxpayers and in terms of all the other many negative impacts.

Given the fact that all the local authorities in Ireland have consistently struggled to collect the full dereliction levies since 1990, we believe that responsibility for collection of all levies should be immediately allocated to Inland Revenue.
CONCERNS over possible job cuts at VMware by Broadcom, formerly known as VMware, have been raised in the Dail.

Two weeks ago, Broadcom Inc - a global technology firm that designs, develops, and supplies semiconductor and infrastructure software solutions - announced that it had completed its acquisition of VMware, Inc.

Staff at VMware by Broadcom in Ballincollig last week received correspondence from the employer notifying them that the company is proposing some organisational changes and possible redundancies.

Concerns 'deep job cuts' planned

Commenting before he raised the matter in the Dail on Tuesday, Socialist Party TD for Cork North Central, Mick Barry, said there are widespread concerns that deep job cuts are planned.

It's terrible that these workers have all this hanging over their heads this Christmas.

The pay packets at VMware go towards feeding a lot of families and paying a lot of mortgages.

The jobs are important for Ballincollig and for the wider Cork economy, Mr Barry said.

Speaking in the Dail, Mr Barry asked Taoiseach Leo Varadkar if he would request the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney, to engage with the new owners on the matter and impress upon them that each and every one of those jobs is important for the workers and their families, for the town of Ballincollig and for the wider community in Cork city.

Mr Varadkar said he was personally not up to date on the matter but said he would speak to Minister Coveney.

I know hell want to take a particular interest in it, particularly it being in Ballincollig - not too far from him, he added.

Consultation process

In the correspondence last week, staff at VMware by Broadcom in Ballincollig were informed that a collective consultation process with employee representatives would commence.

Consultation with the representatives will involve discussion about ways of avoiding or reducing the number of redundancies and mitigating the consequences of any redundancies that the company does have to make, the document issued to staff stated.

The tech company, which opened in Barrack Square, Ballincollig, in 2005 is a major employer in the region.

Sinn Fein TD for Cork North Central, Thomas Gould, said he has also written to Simon Coveney on the matter of possible job losses.

"I have written to Simon Coveney to call on him to impress upon the company the massive skillset of their Ballincollig-based staff and to do everything that can be done to ensure these jobs are saved, he said.
Met Eireann has issued a rainfall warning for Cork and six other counties.

The status yellow warning comes into effect at 10am this morning and impacts Cork, as well as Kerry, Waterford, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow.

The forecaster is warning that spells of heavy rain spreading eastwards will be accompanied by strong and gusty southeasterly winds.

It says potential impacts include localised flooding, difficult travelling conditions and poor visibility.

The rainfall warning will remain in effect until 1pm tomorrow.

The forecaster says that today will be milder than recent days with highest afternoon temperatures of 7 to 11 degrees.

The weather is expected to remain unsettled for the remainder of the week with above average temperatures expected over the coming days.
Cork airport will have two new flight routes for 2024, as Ryanair are adding new destinations for Cork passengers next year.

The airline will add a route from Cork to Brussels South Charleroi Airport with flights twice a week from the end of March onwards.

Flights there and back will run on Wednesdays and Sunday, with the first flight on Sunday March 31.

Their flight to Rhodes, Greece will be the first direct flight by any airline from Cork to Greece, saving holidaymakers from having to make the trek up to Dublin.

The first flight is on Saturday June 1 2024, and they will continue twice weekly until the end of October.

Tickets for flights to both destinations are available to book on the Ryanair website now.

Cork airport is set to experience its busiest year in history as it overtakes pre-pandemic traffic figures, with a total of 2.75 million passengers anticipated for 2023 in total, a 22% growth in the space of 12 months.
The 41-year-old man accused of murdering his wife at their home in Wilton asked for the case against him to be struck out because directions are not yet available from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Judge Mary Dorgan refused the application made by Regin Parithapara Rajan through his solicitor, Eddie Burke, at Cork District Court.

Sergeant Gearoid Davis said: The file is at an advanced stage and I would apply to remand him in custody for appearance by video link.

Mr Burke said:

This is a matter going on since July 16 when he was first brought to court. We know what the directions will be. We cannot understand what the delay is in getting DPP directions. We cannot understand it. My application is to have the matter struck out.

Sgt Davis said: This is a murder investigation. It is vast in nature  every avenue has to be closed off before the file is sent to the DPP. The file is at an advanced stage.

Refusing the application to strike out the case and remanding the accused in custody until December 20, Judge Dorgan said: Obviously it is in everyones interests to progress matters.

Sgt. Davis said: Every effort is being made.

Regin Parithapara Rajan appeared at Cork District Court in person but is due to appear by video link from Cork Prison on the adjourned date.

The defendant is charged with the murder of 38-year-old Deepa Paruthiyezhuth Dinamani at their home at Cardinal Court, Wilton, Cork, on July 14, contrary to common law. When Det Garda Alan Johnson arrested and charged him with the murder last July, Mr Rajan made no reply.

There was a previous defence request for Mr Rajan to receive all appropriate medical attention while in prison, in particular any psychiatric attention he might need as he suffered from depression. The judge was also told there was no need for an interpreter as Mr Rajan had good English and understood proceedings.

The deceased, Ms Dinamani, a native of Kerala in south-west India, was a chartered accountant and she moved with her husband and young son to Cork three months ago to take up a position as a Fund Manager with a financial services company, Alter Domus Fund Services based at Cork Airport Business Park.
A young man seen swinging a slash-hook over his head at the scene of a public affray involving two families back in July 2020 has been sentenced to four months in prison.

Daniel Quilligan, who is in his early 20s, of the halting site, Little Island, County Cork, pleaded guilty to charges arising out of that incident and another one involving burglary much more recently.

Defence barrister Jack Sreenan said:

He has a difficult background. He does suffer from psychosis. He has severe mental health difficulties. He is currently taking medication. He is feeling far better and feels that the medication is effective.

Sergeant Pat Lyons said the recent incident occurred on August 15 2023 when gardai received a report of an alarm at around 4.30am at Airflow, Courtstown, Little Island.

Gardai entered the premises and observed a man looking through boxes on the premises. He was identified as Daniel Quilligan and had no permission to be on the premises.

Judge Mary Dorgan gave the defendant a sentence of two months for that offence and a concurrent four months for his part in the public affray back in 2020.

Sergeant Lyons said: After 10.30am on July 1 2020 at Lakelands Crescent, Mahon, a group of men presented at the front door of a house with various weapons calling out and threatening residents inside.

Gardai responded quickly but the men were gone when officers arrived.

Daniel Quilligan was holding a slash-hook throughout the incident and swinging it continuously. At one stage he is seen throwing this at other parties and then picking up another weapon from the ground.

As well as the sentence of four months for that affray, the judge also imposed a four months suspended sentence post-release.
Ann O'Loughlin

Riverdance and Lord of the Dance star Michael Flatley and his family are "devastated" at having to leave their Co Cork period mansion after it was claimed an alleged extremely hazardous chemical residue was detected in the period property, the High Court has heard.

The 65-year-old star claims that he, his wife Niamh and their son Michael St James cannot reside at the protected structure Castlehyde outside Fermoy, where he has invested over 29 million since he acquired it in 1999.

Mr Flatley says that it will cost 25 million and take two years to remedy the problem.

In a sworn statement to the court, Mr Flatley says that his family have "all suffered ill health since moving back to Castlehyde" after remediation works.

I believe I was one of the fittest people in Ireland, and despite the same, I developed cancer.

"I believe I was one of the fittest people in Ireland, and despite the same, I developed cancer," he said.

In High Court proceedings, Mr Flatley is suing the Austin Newport Group Limited, the alleged main contractor that carried out remediation works on the property after a fire in 2016, and the insurers of Castlehyde, Am Amlin Underwriting Ltd, AXA XL Underwriting Ltd, and Hamilton Managing Agency Ltd.

The entertainer is seeking damages from those parties claiming, among other things, alleged negligence and alleged breach of health and safety regulations and building regulations.

He has also brought proceedings against Mr David Cushion, who the court heard had been his accountant, and broker who had allegedly arranged insurance.

In the proceedings, Mr Flatley also seeks judgment in the sum of 25 million.

The court heard that last October the Flatleys left their home after experts conducting routine maintenance of the house detected alleged high and unsafe levels of chloride residue from PVC on the walls and furniture of the property.

Mr Flatley's counsel Ronnie Hudson Bl instructed by solicitor Max Mooney, said it is their case that the residue came from the combustion of PVC during a fire at the property in 2016, and is carcinogenic.

Counsel said that Mr Flatley claims that the main contractor, which was hired by the insurers to do remedial works, was allegedly aware of a problem with the residue while it was working on the property in 2016, but allegedly did not disclose this information to his client.

Counsel said that an email dated August 5th, 2016 allegedly sent to the defendants was recently discovered in a box of other documents allegedly left in Castlehyde.

It stated that unacceptably high levels of chloride content from the combustion of PVC had been detected, and would have "an adverse effect" on metal components in the property, counsel said.

Counsel said it is Mr Flatley's case that the alleged issue concerning the PVC residue should have been known about.

In his proceedings, Mr Flatley claims the remediation works carried out were allegedly defective, done in an alleged negligent manner and he claims that defects, including the PVC residue, were allegedly hidden from Mr Flatley.

Counsel said that in 2018, arising out of the damage caused by the fire, the insurers brought proceedings seeking damages against other parties that had carried out works on the property in 2006 and 2007.

Mediation

Those proceedings, which were brought in Mr Flatley's name, were settled following mediation.

As part of his latest action, Mr Flatley wants parts of that settlement agreement set aside.

Counsel said that his "international superstar and multi-award winning client" and his family are "devastated and distraught" over having to leave their home.

The matter came before Mr Justice Liam Kennedy in the High Court on Tuesday.

Following an ex-parte application to the court, the judge said that he was satisfied to grant the plaintiff permission to serve the proceedings on the defendants who are all based in the UK.

The judge said that at this stage, he was not prepared to grant an injunction requiring some of the defendants to preserve any reports they may have on the works allegedly carried out.

The judge noted Mr Flatley's concerns on this issue that documents may be destroyed, but said that there was insufficient evidence before the court that would allow it to grant such an order.

The case will return before the court at a later date.
Kenneth Fox

The Lord Mayor of Dublin Daithi de Roiste has launched the live animal crib at the Mansion House alongside the president of the Irish Farmers Association, Tim Cullinan.

The crib was blessed by Rev Paul Arbuthnot, from St Annes Church onDawson Street and Fr Enda Cunningham, form St Andrews Church on Westland Row.

Speaking at the launch, Mr de Roiste said: Tradition is such an important aspect of Christmas and for many Dubliners, including myself, the Mansion House live animal crib was always a huge part of that. So I am delighted its back again this year.

I know that the farmers always take great care of the animals and that this year will be no different.

Helping get crowds into the festive spirit, children from St Josephs Nursery on Morning Star Road in Dublin 8 were joined by the Lucan Gospel Choir for a performance on the steps of the Mansion House.

Mr Cullinan echoed the comments, describing the live crib as a gift from the farmers of Ireland.

Despite support from the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA), there has been some opposition to the live crib on the grounds of animal welfare.

Last year, for the first time in 30 years, the live crib was cancelled.

The live crib will be open to the public daily from 11am to 5pm up to Saturday, December 23rd, and finally from 11am to 1pm on Christmas Eve.
(U.S. State Department Photo by Ron Przysucha / Public Domain)U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken is sworn in as the 71st U.S. Secretary of State by Acting Under Secretary of State for Management Carol Z. Perez at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., on January 26, 2021.

Anti-Semitism is rising worldwide, including in the United States and across Europe; anti-Muslim hatred is widespread in many countries with religious freedom of deep concern in China, Russia, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia and Burma, says the U.S. Secretary of State.

Speaking at the May 12 release of the 2020 Report on International Religious Freedom Antony J. Blinken, said, "We have work to do to ensure that people of all faiths and backgrounds are treated with equal dignity and respect."

"More broadly, we're seeing anti-Semitism on the rise worldwide, including here in the United States as well as across Europe," said Blinken.

"It's a dangerous ideology that history has shown is often linked with violence. We must vigorously oppose it wherever it occurs."

He noted that anti-Muslim hatred is still widespread in many countries, and this, too, is a serious problem for the United States as well as in Europe.

The annual Report to the U.S. Congress on International Religious Freedom  the International Religious Freedom Report  describes the status of religious freedom in every country.

The report covers government policies violating religious belief and practices of groups, religious denominations and individuals, and U.S. policies to promote religious freedom around the world.

The U.S. Department of State submits the reports in accordance with the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998.

RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

"Religious freedom, like every human right, is universal. All people, everywhere, are entitled to it no matter where they live, what they believe, or what they don't believe," said Blinken.

"Religious freedom is co-equal with other human rights because human rights are indivisible. Religious freedom is not more or less important than the freedom to speak and assemble, to participate in the political life of one's country, to live free from torture or slavery, or any other human right. Indeed, they're all interdependent."

He said, "Saudi Arabia remains the only country in the world without a Christian church, though there are more than a million Christians living in Saudi Arabia."

In Saudi Arabia authorities continue to jail human rights activists like Raif Badawi, who was sentenced in 2014 to a decade in prison and a thousand lashes for speaking about his beliefs.

A few examples from this year's report include Iran which it said continues to intimidate, harass, and arrest members of minority faith groups, including Baha'i, Christians, Jews, Zoroastrians, Sunni and Sufi Muslims.

The report cites Burma, or Myanmar as it is also known, where the Feb. 1 military coup leaders are among those responsible for ethnic cleansing and other atrocities against Rohingya, most of whom are Muslim, and other religious and ethnic minorities around the world.

"In Russia, authorities continue to harass, detain, and seize property of Jehovah's Witnesses as well as members of Muslim minority groups on the pretense of alleged extremism," said Blinken.

In Nigeria, courts continue to convict people of blasphemy, sentencing them to long-term imprisonment or even death. Yet the government has still not brought anyone to justice for the military's massacre of hundreds of Shia Muslims in 2015.

"And China broadly criminalizes religious expression and continues to commit crimes against humanity and genocide against Muslim Uyghurs and members of other religious and ethnic minority groups," said Blinken.
Philippine Interfaith Movement Against Human Trafficking

A group of Catholics, traditional Protestants and evangelicals in the Philippines has challenged President Rodrigo Duterte to end human trafficking by stamping out corruption by state officials in a country where many people live in modern-day slavery.

The Philippine Interfaith Movement Against Human Trafficking, also known as Pimaht, met on July 31 to commemorate World Day Against Trafficking in Human Persons, UCA Catholic News reported.

Formed in 2012, the group is made up of the three largest Christian organizations in the Philippines -- the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines, the National Council of Churches in the Philippines, and the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches.

"We need to intensify our campaign against this [human trafficking] modern slavery by addressing its root causes," the group said during the seminar.

"People are poor, yes, but human traffickers give money to corrupt officials for protection. President Duterte must fire them from their posts."

Pimaht views human trafficking as an issue of poverty but also of corruption that gives syndicates the courage to prey on young people.

OFFICIALS TURNING A BLIND EYE

When government officials are corrupt, they turn a blind eye to syndicates who abuse minors the group says.

"There's a need to look at the economic angle. But more than poverty, human trafficking is an issue of corruption. When government officials are corrupt, they turn a blind eye to syndicates who abuse minors," the group noted.

An estimated 784,000 out of a total population of about 102 million in the Philippines live in modern slavery, according to the Global Slavery Index.

Transparency International ranks the Philippines 115th out of 179 countries on its corruption index.

The government recently claimed the Philippines has met the "minimum standards" in efforts to eliminate the crime despite reporting a rise in trafficking cases.

It pointed to the country maintaining its Tier 1 status in the 2021 Trafficking in Persons Report released by the U.S. State Department in July.

The report also says, however, "Although the government meets the minimum standards, it did not convict any officials for complicity in trafficking crimes and did not vigorously investigate labor trafficking crimes that occurred within the Philippines or provide training to labor inspectors on the indicators of trafficking.

"The government also identified fewer victims than the previous reporting period and resources for law enforcement and specialized services for victims remained inadequate."
(Photo: World Council of Churches)Activists hold up signs at a public hearing on human rights violations in the Philippines hosted by the World Council of Churches at the Ecumenical Centre in Geneva on May 30, 2012.

ISIS, the Islamic State group, has claimed responsibility for a deadly explosion that ripped through a Catholic mass service at a university gym in the southern Philippines on Nov. 4.

At least four people were killed, and dozens of others were injured in the blast at the Mindanao State University in Marawi City, according to authorities cited by CNN.

In a communique, ISIS said its fighters "detonated an explosive device on a large gathering of Christian disbelievers in Marawi City," according to the SITE Intelligence Group, a counterterrorism threat intelligence organization that tracks the online activity of extremist groups.

The attack was carried out in a university gymnasium in Marawi, a city in the south of the country besieged by Islamist militants for five months in 2017, Reuters reported.

The Islamic State group, which wields influence in the country's south, said on Telegram its members had detonated the bomb.

Earlier, before Islamic State's claim, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr condemned "the senseless and most heinous acts perpetrated by foreign terrorists."

In Rome, Pope Francis offered prayers for the victims during his regular Sunday address, and, in a separate written message, he appealed to "Christ the prince of peace, grant to all the strength to turn from violence and overcome every evil with good".

Police and the military strengthened security in the country's south and around the capital Manila.

The United States condemned the "horrific terrorist attack" in a government statement.

"The United States is in close contact with our Philippine partners and stands with the people of the Philippines in rejecting this act of violence," State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said.

- ARMY CHIEF

Army chief General Romeo Brawner said previously that the attack may have been revenge for recent military operations against three militant groups -- Dawlah Islamiyah-Philippines, Abu Sayyaf and Maute, AFP reported

One of those operations killed an Abu Sayyaf "bomb expert", who was allegedly responsible for the 2019 deadly attack on a cathedral on the southern island of Jolo, Brawner told CNN Philippines on Tuesday.

Pro-Islamic State Maute and Abu Sayyaf militants -- including foreign and local fighters -- held Marawi under siege in 2017.

The Philippine military seized back the ruined city after a five-month battle that claimed more than 1,000 lives.

Brawner refuted charges there was an intelligence failure ahead of the Nov. 4 bombing.

He said there should have been "more security measures in place" after the military warned local security forces, government officials and the public of possible retaliatory attacks.

More than 85 percent of Philippines' population of 116 million are Christians and 6.4 percent are Muslims and Mindanau has a significant Islamic population.
(UNAOC)Miguel Angel Moratinos, Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations at the Global Tolerance Alliance in Nov. 2023.

The Office of the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide and the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations has hosted a side event with religious leaders and actors at the UN headquarters in New York, on the genocide convention.

The discussion focussed on their role in upholding the values and principles of the 1948 Genocide Convention.

The event was held on the margins of the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide ("Genocide Convention").

The genocide treaty was the first human rights treaty in the history of the UN and was adopted shortly before the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which came into force in 1948.

The UN human rights chief Volker Turk said Dec. 3 the world must remember that genocide is often preceded or accompanied by statements from political leaders and other public figures that dehumanize and demonize people from targeted communities.

"Important lessons of the Holocaust, whose indescribable crimes led to the Convention  and the lessons of Cambodia, Rwanda, the former Yugoslavia, and others  made it absolutely clear that preventing genocide, and bringing its perpetrators to account before all humanity, is essential to the work of advancing human rights," Turk said.

Religious leaders and actors across all faiths are key partners in advancing the principles, values and work of the United Nations according to a UN statement.

PREVENTION OF GENOCIDE

More specific to the prevention of genocide and other atrocity crimes, faith communities have a pivotal role in fostering peaceful, inclusive, and just societies.

In this context, since 1948, scores of religious leaders and actors have been tirelessly championing the Genocide Convention, advocating for its ratification, domestication, and implementation.

Rudelmar Bueno de Faria, general secretary at the ACT Alliance, which is part of the World Council of Churches highlighted that religious leaders and faith communities, guided by principles of justice and compassion, can contribute significantly to exposing the realities of genocide.

In doing so the reject the manipulation of facts and advocating for accountability.

Bueno de Faria also urged the international community to remain vigilant and uncompromising in the implementation of the Genocide Convention

"The principles that underpin the Genocide Convention are respect for diversity, inclusivity, and non-discrimination," said Alice Wairimu Nderitu, Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General on the Prevention of Genocide, at the opening of the event.

"These principles are also integral to the work of religious leaders and actors across the world."

She noted, "In recognizing their pivotal role, we launched the first-ever Plan of Action for Religious Leaders and Actors to Prevent Incitement to Violence that Could Lead to Atrocity Crimes, also known as Fez Plan of Action in 2017."

This is a Plan of Action which can be seen as the religious leaders' roadmap to implementing the principles of the Genocide Convention.

Wairimu Nderitu also underlined the need to reflect deeply on how we can collectively uphold the Convention, joining hands with religious leaders and actors for "Never Again" to be "Never Again": "we owe it to the victims of the genocide and the future generations.", she said.

"Seventy-five years ago, the nations of the world united in an unprecedented, at the time, demonstration of resolute and inspired multilateral action to support the first human rights treaty to be adopted by the United Nations  the Genocide Convention," recalled Miguel Angel Moratinos, Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations at the Global Tolerance Alliance.

"Let us take inspiration...from religious communities that remind us of our capacity to stand together as one human family  one humanity  rich in cultural and religious diversity, equal in dignity and rights, united in solidarity," he said.
(Photo: Aid to the Church in Need)Armed security personnel stand guard outside the Sacred Heart Catholic Cathedral in Lahore, Pakistan.

Churches across Pakistan have stepped up security in response to the threat of terrorist attacks following the Taliban's return to power in neighboring Afghanistan.

After the Taliban takeover, senior Catholic and Protestant leaders agreed to tighten surveillance and heighten armed protection, especially at Sunday services, Aid to the Church in Need, UK (ACN) reports.

The move coincides with concerns that the Taliban's seizure of Afghanistan will trigger extremist incidents aimed at Christian and other minority faith communities.

Frequent cases of the misuse by Pakistan's overwhelmingly Muslim majority of the country's draconian blasphemy law, which carries a maximum penalty of death, for settling grudges against Christians and other minorities continue to surface, Pakistan Christian News reports.

Pak Christian News | Pakistan: Another Christian woman accused of blasphemy for forwarding a text

Pakistan human rights activist Sajid Christopher, chief executive of the Human Friends Organization, said fears were raised that the Taliban-associated group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant organizations would capitalize on events in Afghanistan and target religious minorities, including Christians.

MEMORIES OF PAST TALIBAN POWER

"When the Taliban were in power before, there were a lot of terrorist attacks in Pakistan," Christopher told ACN on Sept. 2.

"There were terrorist organizations attacking churches and other Christian institutes and other Christian institutes. They became targets.

"Now the Taliban are back, it will strengthen the TTP and other Islamist groups, and so there could be attacks."

Building on security protocol already in place, tightened protection measures include increased action to check the identity of people entering church compounds by car, metal detectors used as people go in for services, and a heightened armed presence at church entrances.

Christopher also warned that the security outlook for more moderate Muslims was also of concern.

"Among peaceful and progressive [Muslim] communities, there will also be fear, but those with a militant mindset are happy that the Taliban is back in power again," he said.

His comments come at a time of fear for the safety of what remains of Afghanistan's tiny Christian community, those unable to be part of last week's mass evacuation of the most at-risk people, mainly non-local groups.

Aid to the Church in Need said Taliban fighters have allegedly gone house-to-house to track down Christians and other minorities.

There were also reports of people ordered to hand over their phones with death threats on the spot if their devices were found to contain Bible verses or devotional material.

SAM BROWNBACK

Earlier this week, former U.S. religious freedom ambassador Sam Brownback warned of genocide against Christians and other minorities in Afghanistan.

In an interview with the National Catholic Register on Sept 1, he was asked about some of the threats religious minorities face under Taliban rule?

"We saw this situation in a different country, in northern Iraq, when they couldn't negotiate a Status of Forces Agreement in Iraq, and so we pulled our troops back.

"We got a genocide then that took place on the Yazidis and the Christians in northern Iraq. This was the genocide declared by Secretary of State John Kerry at the time, and that's what's likely to happen to the religious minorities left in Afghanistan if they don't get out or in deep hiding," said Brownback.

Brownback said, "Now, those religious minorities were more concentrated in kind of a rural area in northern Iraq. The Yazidis had a particular Sinjar mountain, which was their center of worship. The Christians were in the Nineveh Plains.

"That's an area that they had been since the times of Christ. But ISIS came through there and wiped them out  just killed them, drove them out. A lot of Christians got out; the Yazidis, a lot of them got killed.

"I'm afraid you're just going to see a similar scenario. And here in Afghanistan, it'll play out somewhat differently, but if the Taliban doesn't get you, ISIS is coming after you. I think it's a 2grave situation for religious minorities, including Christians, Christian converts, Hindus, Sikhs,

"Muslims that don't agree with the dominant philosophy; there are Shia Muslims. All those are in grave danger in this situation in Afghanistan," said Brownback.
Wednesday marks the 25th anniversary of the International Space Stations (ISS) physical assembly in orbit. On December 6, 1998, the crew aboard the space shuttle Endeavor attached the US-built Unity node to the Russian-built Zarya module, kicking off the modular construction of the ISS. A quarter century later, we look back at the milestones and breakthroughs from one of humanitys most impressive marvels of engineering and international cooperation.

The ISS, which orbits the Earth 16 times every 24 hours at a speed of five miles per second, has been inhabited by researchers for over 23 years. Its the product of five space agencies from 15 countries. NASA, Roscosmos (Russias national space agency), ESA (European Space Agency), JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) have contributed to the stations assembly and operation.

From ink to orbit

Its official journey began in the early 1990s when the United States Freedom (ordered by President Ronald Reagan in 1984) and Russias Mir-2 space station projects were in danger of (literally) never getting off the ground. Freedom was in jeopardy primarily due to a lack of Congressional funding amid rising costs, while Mir-2 was on the brink partially because of financial hardships following the collapse of the Soviet Union.

On September 2, 1993, the two nations, each needing an international ally to forge ahead, signed an agreement to combine their programs and collaborate on a joint mission that would have seemed wildly implausible a few years earlier. US Vice President Al Gore and Russian Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin inked the pact, marking the formal conception of the cosmic laboratory we know today as the ISS.

US Vice President Al Gore (left) and Russian Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin in 1993 (VITALY ARMAND via Getty Images)

The following years included a design overhaul to fold Russian technology into Americas existing Freedom plans, a milestone 1995 docking of NASAs Atlantis to Russias Mir station (epitomizing the fruit of the once-far-fetched collaboration), the addition of funding and cooperation from Europe, Canada and Japan in 1996 and Russias launch of Zarya a month before the ISS assembly began. That all led to the day 25 years ago when the two nations space tech linked together, sounding the death knell for the Cold War-era space race.

The first crewed mission began on November 2, 2000, when NASA astronaut Bill Shepherd and cosmonauts Yuri Gidzenko and Sergei Krikalev stepped onboard. The inaugural crew spent four months in space, laying the groundwork for subsequent crews. (The record for the most time living and working in space was set by Peggy Whitson, who celebrated 665 days aboard the ISS in 2017.)

NASA

The US Lab Module linked to the station in February 2001, expanding the stations onboard living space by 41 percent. Four years later, Congress named the US portion a national laboratory. Far more than a symbolic gesture (although it was also that), the designation opened the door to funding and research from a much more comprehensive array of institutions, including universities, other government agencies and private businesses. In 2008, laboratories from Europe and Japan joined the ISS.

The ISSs construction and expansion from 1998 to 2010 amassed around 900,000 pounds of modules. The station contains about $100 billion worth of gear spinning around the globe.

Research and breakthroughs

NASA

During the ISSs more than 100,000 orbits of the Earth, it has ushered breakthroughs in areas ranging from disease research to bodily changes from microgravity.

Studying how proteins, cells and biological processes behave in microgravity has boosted research in Alzheimers, Parkinsons, heart disease and asthma. Many of these studies wouldnt have been possible on Earth. Meanwhile, protein crystal growth experiments have sparked advances in developing treatments for conditions including cancer, gum disease and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

ISS researchers made surprising discoveries about cool flames, which can burn at extremely low temperatures. Nearly impossible to study outside of microgravity, the astronauts research has challenged our previous understanding of combustion. It may open new frontiers with internal combustion engines (ICE), allowing them to run cleaner and more efficiently.

Studies aboard the space station have contributed significantly to our knowledge of human muscle atrophy and bone loss. (ISS astronauts typically work out at least two hours daily to prevent these conditions.) Studying how prolonged time in microgravity affects muscle deterioration and recovery also applies to Earthbound patients stuck in bed for extended periods. In addition, the research can help us learn more about conditions like osteoporosis, leading to improved preventative measures and treatments. It has also helped scientists better understand broader biological changes in microgravity, which could pay dividends if or when humans colonize Mars.

Water purification systems designed to sustain astronauts over long periods have also borne fruit on Earth. ISS astronauts recycle 98 percent of their pee and sweat using highly efficient and compact systems. This has led to the technologys use in agriculture, disaster relief and aid provision for less developed areas.

ISS astronauts studied the Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC), a fifth state of matter that deviates significantly from known states like solids, liquids, gases and plasmas. In 2018, the ISSs Cold Atom Lab produced BEC in orbit for the first time. Spaces colder temperatures and lack of gravity allow for longer observation times, helping researchers learn more about the behaviors of atoms and BECs. Not only is this crucial to quantum physics studies, it could aid in developing more advanced quantum technologies down the road.

For more detail on the ISSs breakthroughs, NASA has a dedicated writeup from 2020.

Decommissioning

NASA

The ISS is currently scheduled for decommissioning in January 2031. (Russia currently plans to leave in 2028.) Its late 90s infrastructure is aging quickly, and the space station would grow increasingly and prohibitively expensive to maintain over the long haul. Government and commercial orbital labs will likely pick up the slack in the following years.

When its time comes, the ISS will undergo a controlled deorbit. As for what that might involve, Kirk Shireman, deputy manager of NASAs space station program, broached the subject with Space.com in 2011. Weve done a lot of studies, he said. We have found an orbit and a change in velocity that we believe is achievable, and it creates a debris footprint thats all in water in an unpopulated area.

As Engadgets Andrew Tarantola wrote about the ISSs pending demise:

Beginning about a year before the planned decommissioning date, NASA will allow the ISS to begin degrading from its normal 240-mile high orbit and send up an uncrewed space vehicle (USV) to dock with the station and help propel it back Earthward. The ultimate crew from the ISS will evacuate just before the station hits an altitude of 115 miles, at which point the attached USV will fire its rockets in a series of deorbital burns to set the station into a capture trajectory over the Pacific Ocean.

NASA plans to guide any remaining bits into a remote area of the South Pacific Ocean. Weve been working on plans and update the plans periodically, Shireman said. We dont want to ever be in a position where we couldnt safely deorbit the station. Its been a part of the program from the very beginning.

NASA 25th-anniversary event

NASA held a live-streamed event on Wednesday to mark the quarter-century anniversary of the Zarya and Unity modules linking up. All seven STS-88 Space Shuttle Mission crew members joined NASA Associate Administrator Bob Cabana (mission commander) and ISS Program Manager Joel Montalbano to discuss the milestone.

You can watch it here:
The New Mexico AG's office says it set up dummy kids accounts that were barraged by inappropriate content and requests.

New Mexico is the latest jurisdiction to accuse Meta of failing to protect younger users. The state attorney general's office filed suit against the company this week after investigators set up test accounts on Instagram and Facebook in which they claimed to be preteens or teenagers. They used AI-generated profile photos for the accounts. The AG's office asserts that the accounts were barraged by explicit messages and images, along with sexual propositions from users. It also claimed that Meta's algorithms recommended sexual content to the test accounts.

The suit claims that Meta has allowed Facebook and Instagram to become a marketplace for predators in search of children upon whom to prey," according to The Wall Street Journal . In addition, it asserts that Meta failed to employ measures to stop those under 13 from using its platforms and that CEO Mark Zuckerberg was personally liable for product choices that increased risks to children.

To get around Meta's age restrictions, investigators provided the company with adult dates of birth while setting up phony accounts for four children (kids often misstate their ages to access online services that they're not supposed to). However, they implied that the accounts were being used by children  one posted about losing a baby tooth and starting seventh grade. Per the suit, investigators also set up the account to make it seem as though the fictional child's mother was possibly trafficking her.

The suit alleges that, among other things, the accounts were sent child sex images and offers to pay for sex. Two days after investigators set up an account for a phony 13-year-old girl, Meta's algorithms suggested it follow a Facebook account with upwards of 119,000 followers that posted adult porn.

Investigators flagged inappropriate material (including some images that appeared to be of nude and underaged girls) through Meta's reporting systems. According to the suit, Meta's systems often found these images to be permissible on its platforms.

In a statement to the Journal, Meta claimed it prioritizes child safety and invests heavily in safety teams. We use sophisticated technology, hire child safety experts, report content to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and share information and tools with other companies and law enforcement, including state attorneys general, to help root out predators, the company said. Meta has also claimed that it carries out work to stop malicious adults from contacting children on its platforms.

Earlier this year, Meta set up a task force to tackle child safety issues after reports indicated Instagram's algorithms helped accounts that commissioned and bought underage-sex material to find each other. Just last week, the Journal reported on the alleged prevalence of child exploitation material on Instagram and Facebook. According to the Canadian Centre for Child Protection, a network of Instagram accounts with as many as 10 million followers each has continued to livestream videos of child sex abuse months after it was reported to the company." Meta says it has taken action over such issues.
It comes out as COP28 deals with controversies around prioritizing fossil fuels.

As a controversial COP28 continues in Dubai, a new report emphasizes that "the world is on a disastrous trajectory." The Global Tipping Points report emphasized the need for an immediate phasing out of fossil fuels and a commitment to beneficial solutions. Tipping points are small thresholds that, when crossed, spark a series of events, including the passage of other tipping points.

The report, led by the University of Exeter and the Global Systems Institute, looked at 26 negative tipping points and the Earth's chances of breaching them as it heads towards a global warming of 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit. Scientists from the European Union have declared 2023 as the hottest year on record. As things stand, researchers found five tipping points are currently at risk of being hit, such as major ice sheets collapsing and warm-water coral reefs dying off. Another three are possible in the 2030s (when that 2.7 F marker is crossed).

The Global Tipping Points report bluntly states: "The existence of tipping points means that 'business as usual' is now over. Rapid changes to nature and society are occurring, and more are coming. If we don't revise our governance approach, these changes could overwhelm societies as the natural world rapidly comes apart." It also emphasizes the importance of pursuing positive tipping points, such as the massive rollout of EVs.

The report lays out six key recommendations to avoid negative tipping points and pursue positive ones:

Phase our fossil fuels and land use emissions now, certainly way before 2050

Strengthen adaptation and loss-and-damage governance, with a particular focus on vulnerable communities

Include tipping point risks, positive tipping point possibilities and related action in the Global Stocktake and Nationally Determined Contributions

Coordinate policy efforts on activating positive tipping points, especially ones that could create a beneficial domino effect

Have the UN Secretary General convene a meeting on tipping point risks and activating positive tipping points

Invest in deepening the scientific knowledge of tipping points and helpful actions

The controversies surrounding the ongoing COP28 are one of the barriers to implementing these initiatives. Reports have indicated that the United Arab Emirates planned to use the conference to make deals for its oil and gas companies with other countries. In fact, at least 2,456 fossil fuel lobbyists have access to COP28's climate negotiations, the Guardian reports. This number is larger than any country's delegation other than Brazil and UAE and more than those traveling from the top ten most climate vulnerable countries.

Then there's Sultan Al Jaber, COP28's president and the chief executive of Adnoc, UAE's state oil company, who added fire to his already controversial opinion. In a livestream conversation with Mary Robinson, the chair of the Elders group and a former UN special envoy for climate change, Al Jaber stated, "There is no science out there, or no scenario out there, that says that the phase-out of fossil fuel is what's going to achieve 1.5C." His comment came after Robinson told Al Jaber that he had the "credibility" as head of Adnoc to work towards ending fossil fuel use.

Robinson then questioned Al Jaber about reports that Adnoc is increasing its fossil fuel use, which he denied. "Please help me, show me the roadmap for a phase-out of fossil fuel that will allow for sustainable socioeconomic development, unless you want to take the world back into caves," Al Jaber added and told her to stop pointing fingers. He later called out the press for misinterpreting his statements.
Twitch is leaving South Korea, with plans to cease all operations on February 27. This is due to prohibitively expensive networking fees, according to CEO Dan Clancy. The news is a major bummer, as the country is one of the largest esports markets in the world, with some of the most competitive League of Legends and Starcraft players around.

Clancy calls this a unique situation," noting that operating in South Korea ends up being ten times more expensive than other countries. He went on to write that Twitch undertook a significant effort to continue operations, but the Amazon-owned company simply couldnt afford it.

Some of these efforts included incorporating a lower-cost peer-to-peer model and downgrading the resolution of streams to 720p, according to TechCrunch. The company had been running at a significant loss and it decided to, well, stop doing that.

I want to reiterate that this was a very difficult decision and one we are very disappointed we had to make. Korea has always and will continue to play a special role in the international esports community and we are incredibly grateful for the communities they built on Twitch, wrote Clancy.

Netflix has also been open about its struggles to continue operations in South Korea. The streaming giant and local internet service provider SK Broadband had been tossing lawsuits back and forth regarding networking fees before settling back in September. As usual, consumers got the shaft on this one, as Netflix ended up raising prices by around 13 percent.

So whats the issue exactly? It all boils down to a particular type of internet traffic tax employed in South Korea called the Sending Party Network Pays (SPNP) model. This tax requires the tech company, Twitch in this case, to pay a fee to the ISP for traffic to be delivered to the end user. Foreign companies resisted these efforts for years but there have been recent crackdowns, and here we are.
A Texas groom whose $59 million Paris wedding recently went viral on social media is facing serious legal troubles after allegedly firing a gun at police officers.

Jacob Chase LaGrone, 29, was charged with three counts of aggravated assault against a public servant, a felony that could result in a life sentence if convicted.

The charges stem from an incident on March 14 when LaGrone allegedly threatened three police officers in Westworth Village, a suburb of Fort Worth, by shooting at them, according to court documents cited by Dallas Morning News.

The incident occurred as the officers were responding to multiple disturbance calls at the same address, according to city officials.

An indictment cited by the outlet stated that LaGrone " did intentionally and knowingly threaten" the officers with "bodily injury" and "did use or exhibit a deadly weapon during the commission of the assault, namely, a firearm," though details about the encounter remained unspecified.

LaGrone, a Nashville native, was arrested at the scene and later released on $20,000 bond. He was indicted in August, three months before he wed car dealership heiress Madelaine Brockway on Nov. 18.

During a Thursday court appearance in Tarrant County District Court in Fort Worth, he was offered a plea deal of 25 years in prison, the court documents stated.

Jacob LaGrone appears in court WITHOUT heiress bride-of-the-century Madelaine Brockway - but with a burly bodyguard as he faces three felony counts for shooting at Texas cops https://t.co/MbwAOvntRT pic.twitter.com/D5Mwf3NDat  Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) December 1, 2023

LaGrone kept a low profile during the court appearance and was accompanied by a bodyguard, the Daily Mail reported.

Brockway was not present at the court appearance, and she has not released a statement on her husband's case.

The couple's extravagant nuptials, dubbed the "wedding of the century" on social media, took place over five days and included a stay at the Palace of Versailles, a rehearsal dinner at the Opera House in Paris, a private lunch at the Chanel Haute Couture Suite and a performance by Maroon 5.

Couple spent estimated $59 million on a five day wedding in Paris.



In a grand Parisian affair, Madelaine Brockway and Jacob LaGrone tied the knot. Guests were flown to the Palace of Versailles for a private Maroon 5 concert amidst a floral fairy-tale. pic.twitter.com/pduApNAmn1 November 28, 2023

The wedding garnered significant attention on social media, with videos and photos shared by wedding planners Lake Como Weddings and HMR Designs circulating widely and garnering millions of views.

"The Wedding of the Century," HMR Designs wrote alongside a video of the lavish celebration on Tiktok. "It was a complete privilege and honor to 'build this village' with @Lake Como Weddings for over the last 3 months. Our biggest heartfelt congrats to Madelaine + Jacob!! We love you!!"

Brockway, daughter of Robert "Bob" Brockway, the chairman and CEO of car dealership Bill Ussery Motors, enjoyed a lavish pre-wedding celebration, including a four-day bachelorette party at the luxury Utah desert resort Amangiri.

Already tagged as wedding of the century, this is what fairytale looks like for a wedding.



Arguably the most expensive wedding of 2023, Madelaine Brockway and Jacob LaGrone spent about 59 MILLION DOLLARS on their wedding.



This was the rehearsal dinner#weddings pic.twitter.com/ecsD5ggEnq  Kele+ (@keleplux) November 29, 2023

Days before the wedding, the bride shared now-deleted videos on TikTok and Instagram of a private party at Chanel's Haute Couture Headquarters, lunch at the Eiffel Tower and a dress reveal at Dior with her guests.

A wedding registry that appeared to belong to the couple included 119 designer products, including a $12,500 crystal butterfly house, a $5,600 vintage vase and a $2,950 antique silver tea set.
Montana State University is working to expand youth mental health programs across the state, especially for rural and tribal communities, thanks to a new grant from the USDAs National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

The three-year, $240,000 grant will allow MSUs Center for Research on Rural Education to offer a program called Youth Aware of Mental Health, or YAM, in more communities across the state as well as launch a new project.

The new initiative, Cultivating Youth Mental Health in Rural and Reservation Communities, will be aimed at combating an alarming increase in mental health concerns and opioid misuse among rural and American Indian youth in Montana, according to a release from MSU.

YAM is an ideal response to this call because it is a mental health promotion program that allows adolescents to develop lifelong resilience skills shown to help young adults avoid high-risk behaviors that can lead to poor academic achievement, substance misuse, severe psychiatric conditions and suicide, Kelley Edwards, the YAM coordinator at MSU and a former high school teacher, said in the release.

A 2023 report by Mental Health America ranks Montana 39th for youth mental illnesses, indicating higher rates of mental illnesses and less access to care.

The same report lists Montana in second to last place  ahead of only Kansas  for the amount of youth with substance use disorders. Last year, 8.6% of Montanas young people reported a substance use disorder, according to the report.

The grant funds will be used to train 10 new YAM instructors and serve nearly two dozen rural and reservation schools or more than 3,000 students, according to the release.

YAM is an international nonprofit started in Sweden that has worked in 16 countries and currently has sites in seven, according to the organizations website. The program boasts a 50% decrease in suicidal ideation in schools in Europe where it was implemented. YAM works within schools serving students ages 13 to 17.

First launched in Montana in 2016, YAM has been offered in nearly 40 Montana communities to approximately 12,500 students, according to Edwards.

Over the past five years, CRRE with the help of the MSU Extension and school communities, has developed three models for offering the program with either MSU employees, local MSU Extension agents or school district personnel serving as instructors for the program.

The five-hour program is typically spread over a minimum of three weeks and led by trained instructors. It includes interactive talks, as well as three hours of role-playing and mental health referral resources for youth, according to MSU.

The program teaches both mental health awareness and risk factors associated with suicide, as well as skills for dealing with adverse life events.

One of the programs main features is situation-based problem solving where students have control over what happens in different scenarios, Edwards said.

For example, students might role-play a situation involving peer pressure around drugs and alcohol and decide how someone might act, she said.

In the 40 Montana schools that have been part of the program so far, many students said they want more mental health education in schools, Edwards told the Chronicle.

It can be a heavy subject, of course, but the impact is its fun, Edwards said. ... You do do a lot of laughing, so its fun, but I also see that these students are really wanting an outlet and a place to talk about mental health. I mean, theyre very aware, theyre an aware generation... and they have a lot to say.

Since YAM was introduced to Montana schools in 2016, Edwards said, she and other instructors have started to see improvements in some students coping skills around mental illness, but there isnt enough data yet to draw conclusions about the programs impact so far.

My whole goal is to get YAM {span}{/span} this heavily researched, high-evidence program {span}{/span} into as many places as possible in Montana, Edwards said.

The feedback from the students is overwhelmingly positive. Its overwhelmingly noticeable that they want mental health programs, they believe it should be taught in schools, she added.

Montana was one of the first two states in the United States to offer YAM  the other was Texas  as part of a pilot study. In addition to positive outcomes on factors related to suicide, the pilot study showed the feasibility of implementing YAM in urban, rural and tribal schools, according to the release.

Brian Kessler, principal at East Helena High School, said the program is addressing an important need.

It is no secret in Montana that we are seeing an increased need to provide students with resources not only on how to care for their own mental health, but also how to help their classmates in times of need, Kessler said in a statement.

YAM is one of the great opportunities we have currently to educate students on warning signs, begin to open up the lines of communication between students and adults, and hopefully save lives through this.

Edwards also added that the program isnt just for students who might be struggling.

As a universal mental health promotion program, YAM can benefit all students, even those who are not struggling with mental health or opioid issues, Edwards said in the release.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988 or 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org. NAMI Montana also has a county-by-county mental health resource guide online.
The most interesting thing for farmers to watch these days is not the latest movie, but the big picture of ag economy, being played out all over the world.

A couple of news feeds on my phone  thank God for 2023 technology  have me thinking about the macro-market that is moving our prices and will continue to do so. First, there were a couple of articles about the spec funds getting shorter on corn and wheat and longer on soybean futures. There are reasons for that, and they are mostly about world production, not our own.

Then came an article on AgWeb by Katie Humphreys in which she dropped some statistics about the growth of corn and soybean acres in South America. I found it interesting  the kind of interesting that makes me glad my farming days are over.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that will come out Dec. 8 will give us numbers that could fit with our projections, and our prices, or there could be surprises. We are getting the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates and the Crop Production Report.

I am a little confused about the second one because I thought we normally skipped that in December and waited for the January report, which is referred to as the inventory report. After all, we should know what there is in the country by then.

The AgWeb story is led by a picture of a John Deere 24-row planter. That is probably a hint that even though we may think we have production advantages over the Brazilians, we dont. They have access to the same technology we do. And, the record shows that they are now producing the same bushels per acre we do. It also shows that their share of the world market is increasing.

Competing with Brazil

In 1974 Brazil passed China to become the second largest producer of soybeans in the world, after the U.S. Since then they have passed us in the volume of soybeans exported since a high percentage of their crop goes onto water. And, now they have passed us in the amount produced. In the last 10 years, Brazil has gone from producing 10% fewer soybeans than the U.S. to producing 45% more! Most of that has come from increasing their acres.

To an extent, we have ourselves to blame for this. Because of drought in this country, soybean prices went up in 1973. In response, instead of letting the American farmer cash in on the prices, even if the crops were poor, our government put an embargo on soybeans. This was a serious matter to the Europeans, who had mostly used American beans in their products. It was a more serious matter to the Japanese, who ate the soybeans.

One reaction to the embargo came from the several thousand Japanese in Brazil. Japanese money was used, sometimes through the resident Japanese, to develop budding soybean farming, which then exploded.

A smaller, but similar problem comes with corn. Brazils corn production has increased 40% in the last decade, according to the AgWeb article. So, they are competing with us for the world market share of corn, too. Adding to the problem for us is their ability to plant a second crop after soybeans, especially in the northern latitudes of their country. This cerado crop is getting bigger, although it is off this year because of dry weather that limited the planting until late.

Prices

The current prices are being jerked around by instantaneous reactions to foreign news. Most of last week the markets were weak for corn and wheat. We made new contract lows at a time when seasonally we normally see some gains, right after harvest. From now until January, the elevators try to buy grain to fill bins. When January comes, they see an increase in farmer tax planning sales and dont have to work so hard to originate grain.

Last week, the soybeans were actually going up. That stopped Dec. 4 when news spread that South America was getting generous rain where they needed it. The beans bounced as much as 18 cents a bushel. The corn just stopped going down.

Last week saw some big changes in speculative fund positions. The funds increased the size of their short positions in corn and wheat. They decreased the soybean positions.

The Commitment of Traders Report reported 13,000 additional contracts short for funds, to a position of 224,500 contracts, a near-record position. The funds shorted wheat another 7,000 contracts to a position in Chicago wheat of 124,007 contracts short.

The soybeans, however, went the other way. The funds increased their net long by 17,600 to a position of net long 34,700 contracts. That is not a huge soybean position, but it is notable because it is the reverse of the corn.

Some of the reasoning for the short corn/long soybean spec is in current thinking about the long-term supply of the crops. Much of that will be confirmed or denied by the USDA reports coming out Dec. 8.

The trader guess for corn carryout (the amount left over in bins Aug. 31) is that it will be reduced by 2.8 million bushels. If true, and if the market is not trading a carryout like this now, prices could improve a little after the report.

The soybean carry is thought to drop by 2.8 million bushels to 242 million bushels. This is a very low supply, which probably means we import soybeans from South America into our southeast livestock markets to crush for soymeal. But, this is just a guess until Dec. 8.

What is known is that from now until you stop selling grain, South American weather, planting and production will have a bigger impact on our prices than ever before.
To jointly build a better world

14:29, December 06, 2023 By Gong Ming, Zhang Penghui, Jiang Xiaodan, Luo Aihua ( People's Daily

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to the 2023 Imperial Springs International Forum on Dec. 4.

Participants in the event believe that Xi's letter profoundly expounded on the essence of multilateralism, charted the course for safeguarding and practicing true multilateralism, and injected positive energy into promoting the development of the global governance system in a more fair and reasonable direction.

Xi noted in the letter that since its establishment, the Imperial Springs International Forum has brought together people of insight from all over the world to discuss in depth many issues affecting world peace and stability, sustainable economic development, cultural exchanges and mutual learning, playing a positive role in promoting international cooperation and enhancing closer people-to-people ties.

Former Slovenian President Danilo Turk said that the purpose of the Imperial Springs International Forum is to build a platform for communication and dialogues, to address common challenges through cooperation, and to contribute to global development and security.

The world is currently facing multiple crises that test the resilience of international cooperation, said Turk, who's also the president of the World Leadership Alliance-Club de Madrid, adding that the forum this year was dedicated to promoting dialogues and exchanges, advancing multilateralism, and injecting more momentum into world peace and development.

Former Bolivian President Jorge Quiroga said that Xi's congratulatory letter is inspiring at the current time when global free trade and multilateralism have suffered setbacks.

He hailed the participants in the 2023 Imperial Springs International Forum who engaged in in-depth exchanges, shared their insights, and contributed their wisdom to promoting world peace and development, saying such efforts were very constructive.

Noting the crucial importance of international cooperation for promoting the development of all countries, Quiroga pointed out that the trade between Latin American countries and China has been constantly expanded over recent years.

China has been rapidly developing in areas such as new energy vehicles and electronics manufacturing, creating numerous cooperation opportunities for collaboration between Latin American countries and China in the high-tech manufacturing sector.

Next year will mark the 10th anniversary of the Forum of China and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States. China has been actively promoting high-level opening up and negotiating free trade agreements with Latin American countries, which will open up more space for cooperation between the two sides.

The 2023 Imperial Springs International Forum was themed "Multilateralism: More Exchanges, Greater Inclusiveness and Cooperation." Former Prime Minister of Belgium Yves Leterme said that the Imperial Springs International Forum has always upheld the spirit of sincerity, openness, and mutual respect, and the discussions on topics such as economic globalization, modernization, and multilateralism have been inspiring.

In the face of global challenges, all parties should be more determined to pursue the path of multilateralism, and improve global governance through communication and cooperation, Leterme added.

Facing unprecedented changes in the world, the times, and history, the human society must unite, uphold mutual learning, openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation, advocate common values of humanity, and jointly build a better world, Xi stressed in the letter.

Peter Loewen, director of the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy at the University of Toronto, stated that addressing current global and regional challenges requires multilateral cooperation.

He said Xi's congratulatory letter sent a positive signal to the world. China's commitment to true multilateralism plays a crucial role in global affairs, and it can be said that any multilateral cooperation cannot be separated from China's participation and contribution, Loewen added.

Wim Peeters, Consul General of Belgium in Guangzhou, said that all countries, regardless of their size, need to exchange and learn from each other, be open and inclusive, and pursue win-win cooperation.

Peeters said that China has played an unparalleled role in promoting global solidarity and cooperation. For instance, China has put forward a series of significant initiatives to encourage countries to coordinate actions in addressing global challenges, and to make the world more open and inclusive.

The vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind has been enshrined repeatedly in important documents of the United Nations, gaining increasing recognition internationally, Peeters added.

Former Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga appreciated Xi's emphasis on practicing true multilateralism, stating that global governance can only be effective when all parties share a common willingness.

China firmly upholds multilateralism, treats all countries equally, and promotes win-win cooperation with Belt and Road countries through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). She said that the Imperial Springs International Forum has become an important platform for international dialogue and exchange.

Zlatko Lagumdzija, former chairman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, noted that dialogue, cooperation, and mutual learning are needed in today's world, and advocating for shared values of humanity and the building of a community with a shared future for mankind was the essence of this forum.

It has become a consensus to promote the realization of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and countries should unite and strive to achieve the goals, said Lagumdzija.

The China-proposed BRI, Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative have continuously enhanced cooperation and interaction between China and other countries, which is beneficial for achieving the SDGs and building a community with a shared future for mankind.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
The UKs chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant for bluetongue after seven cases of the virus have been confirmed in Kent.

Defra has updated the total number of cases to seven since the initial outbreak in a single cow on 11 November, near Canterbury.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) and the Pirbright Institute identified the first case of the disease through their surveillance programme.

Defra has since widened the original 10km temporary control zone (TCZ) following confirmation of six other cases.

The latest cases were identified on Tuesday (5 December), in two cows.

The virus is usually transmitted by midge bites and affects cows, goats, sheep and other camelids such as llamas.

Midges are most active between April and November and not all susceptible animals show immediate, or any, signs of contracting the virus.

Impacts on susceptible animals can vary greatly  some show no symptoms or effects at all while for others it can cause productivity issues such as reduced milk yield, while in the most severe cases can be fatal for infected animals.

Christine Middlemiss, the UKs chief veterinary officer, has urged farmers to remain vigilant for bluetongue virus following the latest cases.

Bluetongue does not pose a threat to human health or food safety, but the disease can impact livestock farms, and cause productivity issues," she said.

This detection is an example of our robust disease surveillance procedures in action and it is also a clear reminder for farmers that the disease remains a threat, despite coming towards the end of the midge activity season.

Farmers must remain vigilant and report any suspicions to APHA.

Farmers have been reminded by APHA that animals imported from impacted regions must be accompanied by the relevant paperwork to show they meet certain conditions designed to reduce disease risk, such as correct vaccination.

NI and GB ruminants cannot be exported from an GB Assembly Centre to the European Union or moved to Northern Ireland until further notice.

BTV is a notifiable disease. Suspicion of BTV in animals in England must be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 03000 200 301.

Farmers in and around the TCZ can also call Ruminant Health & Welfare's (RH&W) bluetongue hotline on 024 7771 0386 for advice.

Bluetongue does not affect people or food safety.
Chris Martin will "always see" Gwyneth Paltrow as a member of his family.

Chris Martin is still close to Gwyneth Paltrow

The 46-year-old rock star was married to Hollywood actress Gwyneth, 51, from 2003 until 2016 and has Apple, 19, as well as 17-year-old Moses with her but even though he is now in a long-term relationship with Dakota Johnson, 34, an insider has claimed that he will always be "very close" to his ex-wife as they continue to raise their children together.

A source told UsWeekly: "Chris couldnt feel more grateful that he and Gwyneth have managed their co-parenting relationship so seamlessly. He still feels very close to Gwyneth, He will always look at her as family.

"[Chris] loves that Dakota and Gwyneth have grown close over the years and their friendship is a really beautiful thing to see."

Meanwhile, the Goop founder - who is now married to producer Brad Falchuk - explained that she now sees Coldplay frontman Chris as more of a "brother "to her than a romantic partner, although she will always be "grateful" to him for giving her her children.

Speaking on the 'Today' show, she said: "He's like my brother. You know, he's my family. I love him.

"And I'm so grateful to him for giving me these kids. It worked out well... You know, it really did, I have to say. I mean, it's funny. He was over here yesterday. And [Apple] came through and she's like, you know, she's taller than me now. We just looked at each other. We were like, 'How did this go by so quickly?'"

In recent years, the couple have made a point of spending the Christmas season together, with an insider explaining that they always keep things "amicable" for the holiday season.

A source told E! News: "They always keep it very amicable around the holidays and they have remained good friends.

"Gwyneth and Chris try to keep things as normal as possible for their children, and always have a good time together as a family unit. They try to plan at least one family vacation together per year for the sake of the kids. The children are used to the family dynamic now and love when they are all are able to be together."
Game of Thrones actor Joseph Gatt has appeared in court after being charged with having sexually explicit conversations with a minor online.

Game of Thrones actor Joseph Gatt has appeared in court after being charged with having sexually explicit conversations with a minor online

The 51-year-old actor was in court in Los Angeles on Monday (04.12.23) with his long-time girlfriend, actress Mercy Malick, and is set to face a preliminary court hearing in his case on 18 December which was ordered by LA Superior Court Judge Kim Nguyen.

Joseph, who is free on $5,000 bail, was arrested in April 2022 by police who showed up at his home with a search warrant.

LAPDs Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force first started looking into the actor after a tip about his alleged online activities and the star was charged with contact with a minor for sexual offence and felony possession of an assault weapon.

He pleaded not guilty to both charges at the time and was released on his $5,000 bail  but was banned from unsupervised time with minors, possessing pornography and using social media except for work purposes.

Joseph said on X in a denial of the allegations against him: I obviously want to address the absolutely horrifying and completely untrue allegations recently levelled against me.

They are 100 per cent categorically wrong and reckless.

I have confirmed errors and misleading information in today's press release.

I am fully cooperating with police and LAPD to get to the bottom of this.

I look forward to clearing my good name.

Thank you to all of my friends and supporters who know that this is untrue and understand for legal reasons I cannot comment further on social media.

Joseph played Thenn Warg on Game of Thrones and The Albino on the Banshee show and had a part in Teen Wolf, while his movie credits include Thor.
Jonathan Majors ex-girlfriend broke down in tears at his abuse trial as she testified she was scared of the actor.

Jonathan Majors ex-girlfriend broke down in tears at his abuse trial as she testified she was scared of the actor

The Creed III actor, 34, started his trial over an alleged attack on his former partner Grace Jabbari on Monday (04.12.23) at Manhattan Criminal Court, New York, and Tuesdays (05.12.23) hearing of the case was told he would allegedly fly into a violent rage during his relationship with her.

Grace told the jury about Jonathan  who she started dating in August 2021 after they met on the set of Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania she first became scared of him in December 2021 when she brought up the fact that her ex-boyfriend had a dog.

She claimed the actor allegedly berated her for bringing up the exs pet, saying that it was embarrassing that she had dated him, adding: It was the first time I felt scared of him. I knew to never mention my ex again or anyone I had dated before.

In another incident that allegedly happened in England in September 2022, Grace testified she went to a bar with a female friend and later invited her back to the home she shared with Jonathan  and said he became irate with Jabbari and confronted her, allegedly stepping on her earphones and saying that she was stupid if she didnt know what she had done.

He was also accused of telling Grace to leave their house before he ran up to their bedroom and began breaking objects.

Jonathan was arrested on 25 March after he and Jabbari got into a domestic dispute while taking a taxi home from a bar in Brooklyn.

He faces three charges of misdemeanor assault, aggravated harassment and harassment.

Jonathan pleaded not guilty and has maintained his innocence throughout this case.

His attorney Priya Chaudhry has claimed Grace was the aggressor in the cab where he is alleged to have attacked her and dubbed her a scorned and psycho girlfriend who was jealous that the actor was texting another woman.

In October, Grace was charged with assault and criminal mischief for the incident in March, but prosecutors are expected to dismiss the charges against her.

Jonathans trial is set to run for two weeks and if convicted he faces up to a year in prison.
Shannen Doherty struggled to get out of bed when her weight dropped to 92lbs amid her cancer fight.

Shannen Doherty struggled to get out of bed when her weight dropped to 92lbs amid her cancer fight

The former Beverly Hills, 90210 actress, 52, who is battling stage 4 breast cancer, told of the toughest times she had endured throughout the illness on her new podcast Lets Be Clear.

She said: When I dropped down to 92lbs from chemo and was incredibly dehydrated, I had to still get out of bed.

My husband at the time (Kurt Iswarienko) was sort of begging me to keep going, and my mum (was) literally trying to pick me up out of bed and get me to the doctor at that point in time, I thought that I wouldnt survive it.

Shannen added the kindness extended to her from family, friends and strangers who connected with her and shared their own stories about cancer treatments ultimately kept her going.

She said: To have that connection it sort of wrapped me into this cocoon of safety, as cheesy as that may sound, as sappy as that may sound. It really did, she said.

It made me feel less ostracised from the world and like I was a part of something, which then started my feeling of deep, deep responsibility to share my story.

Despite her cancer fight, Shannen is going full steam ahead with her career.

She is said to have a plethora of gigs on the horizon, according to TMZ, despite her condition continuing to worsen.

A representative for the star also told Page Six: She is full steam ahead and she is (doing) great.

The outlet added Shannen is keeping busy by attending several events, such as the recent 90s Con alongside her 90210 castmates in Tampa, Florida, in September.

She also reportedly has a string of talk show appearances booked to promote her new iHeartRadio podcast Lets Be Clear with Shannen Doherty ahead of its debut this month, with appearances set to include Live With Kelly and Mark as well as GMA.

In June the actress told her fans on Instagram her cancer had spread to her brain after a CT scan showed she had brain metastases, a condition that occurs when cancer cells spread from their original site to the brain.

Shannen was diagnosed with breast cancer for the first time in March 2015, then announced in 2020 that she was battling stage 4 breast cancer, and said a year later she was fighting to stay alive.
The Food City Destination Index explores the global culinary landscape to help you eat superbly in different cities

For many of us, food plays a very important role when we travel. We were food enthusiasts long before culinary tourism became a thing. We plot our travels on the basis of what we can see and do at the potential holiday destination, but also on the basis of what we are likely to eat, whether in India or on foreign shores.



Now a study commissioned by holiday portal Holidu has broken down where you can get the best food around the world, whether you are looking for the traditional or the contemporary on the global culinary landscape.





The Food City Destination Index deep dives into the culinary scenes of 75 global cities.





Here Are Some Of The Major Findings Related To Food



London , New York and Paris have emerged as the top food cities with the best food experiences and diversity.

Seekers of exceptional experiences related to food should head to Tokyo , Barcelona and Dubai .

Tokyo in Japan is the city with the most number of Michelin starred restaurants  a whopping 282 of them, followed by Paris and Kyoto.

Tokyo shines on the index, leading in Michelin stars, foodie experiences, East Asian cuisine and world-class restaurants.

Colombo is the most budget-friendly of cities for a meal (above), followed by Hanoi and Istanbul .

Mumbai comes in at # 18 on the budget-friendly list.

Oslo (above), Geneva and Zurich  in that order  are the most expensive food cities.

Images: Shutterstock





Also Read: This Indian Restaurant Has Won A Michelin Star In Washington, DC
Companies in Germany have significantly reduced their investment plans, according to the ifo Institute's Business Survey. The latest figures indicate a cautious outlook for the current and coming years, with the ifo investment expectations plummeting to 2.2 points in November from 14.7 points in March.

Particularly affected is the trade sector, where companies are increasingly looking to cut their investment expenditure. The investment expectations for the current year have shifted from a positive 3.7 points to a negative 3.5 points, further declining to minus 14.6 points for 2024.

In contrast, companies in the manufacturing sector appear more optimistic. Most intend to slightly increase their investments this year and the next. However, there has been a notable reduction in their investment plans for this year, with the balance dropping from 21.4 points in March to 6.8 points in November. This suggests a desire to invest more, albeit not as much as initially planned, as per the survey.

German companies are scaling back investment plans. Investment expectations fell to 2.2 points in November from 14.7 in March. The trade sector shows a notable decline, with negative expectations for 2024. Manufacturing remains relatively optimistic, though investments have decreased. Energy-intensive industries face significant downturns.

The downturn is most pronounced in energy-intensive industries, which have seen their balance fall from plus 9.1 points to minus 9.2 points. The chemical industry, in particular, has seen a dramatic adjustment, with expectations dropping from plus 13.9 points in the spring to minus 15.6 points. Non-energy-intensive industries also witnessed a decrease in expectations, from 22.3 points in March to 12.6 points in November.

Looking ahead to the next year, investment expectations in manufacturing are relatively stable at 6.6 points. Energy-intensive industries show a glimmer of hope with a slight increase in investment expectations to plus 3.7 points. However, non-energy-intensive manufacturing sectors are expected to see a decrease in investment, with the balance falling to 11.2 points.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)
Fawad Khan On Not Kissing Alia Bhatt-Sonam Kapoor Onscreen: Fawad Khan, the Pakistani heartthrob is celebrated for his acting prowess and music career. He also gained significant popularity in Bollywood with his brief but memorable acting chops.

Fawad made his Bollywood debut with the film Khoobsurat in 2014 alongside Sonam Kapoor, and went on to feature in Kapoor & Sons and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil. Along with his charm, what caught everyone's attention was the actor's candid revelation about refusing to kiss onscreen.

Alia Bhatt, who shared the screen with Fawad in Kapoor & Sons, disclosed in a 2017 interview with the Deccan Chronicle that the actor was reluctant to kiss onscreen.

Despite attempts to convince him, Fawad recoiled every time Alia approached for the onscreen kiss. Alia was quoted as saying, "There was a kiss in the film with Fawad. When we did the scene, it was decided that we would cheat-kiss. Still, every time I would go near his face, he would flinch. I had to keep reassuring him I wouldn't compromise his chastity."

Fawad Khan addressed his decision during the promotional events for Khoobsurat, where he opened up on declining a kissing scene with Sonam Kapoor, and said, "I think I need to respect their feelings. A lot of my audience would be quite offended if I suddenly started losing my inhibitions."

Before beginning his acting career, Fawad gained recognition as a member of the rock band Entity Paradigm. His celluloid journey began in 2007 with the critically acclaimed Pakistani film Khuda Kay Liye, and he later rose to fame with television shows including, Humsafar, Dastaan, and Zindagi Gulzar Hai.

Fawad marked his entry into Bollywood in 2014 and remained in the industry until the ban on Pakistani artists in India in 2016. Now, the actor is set for a reunion with Mahira Khan in the Netflix series Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo, an adaptation of another novel by the author of Humsafar.
Seema Haider First Husband Gulam Haider: By now, all of India must have been familiar with the unconventional love story of Pakistani woman Seema Haider, who sneaked into India to live and marry a Hindu man named Sachin Meena, with whom she fell in love while playing the online game PUBG.

She entered India illegally via Nepal along with her four children earlier this year after love blossomed between her and her now-husband Sachin, who now live in Noida in a rented apartment. Seema had been questioned for illegally entering India without a visa and accused of being an ISI agent, while Sachin too had to go behind bars for sheltering illegal immigrants.

While Seema and Sachin's lives are still making headlines and new interesting twists keep unfolding every day, as per the latest development, Seema Haider's first husband, Gulam Haider, has appealed to the Supreme Court of Pakistan to help him reunite with his wife and children.

Karachi To Noida: Seema Haider's Debut Film Theme Song Shows Her Cross-Border Love Journey Sachin Meena

Seema Haider's first husband appeals to the Pakistan Supreme Court

According to a report in Navbharat Times, on Tuesday, Seema Haider's first husband, Gulam Haider, approached Pakistan's Supreme Court with the help of his lawyer, Dr Roshan, who has produced all the important documents that strongly makes a case in favour of him. Gulam has requested that the court help him bring his family back to the country.

Informing a local YouTuber there, Gulam said that he has urged the nation's highest court to return his four children back to him, who are currently risiding in India with Seema and Sachin. Whereas no more details have been revealed by Gulam's attorney.

While Seema Haider has asserted multiple times that she has no intentions of going back to Pakistan. Her first husband, Gulam, is quite adamant about fighting for what is rightfully his. Gulam, after knowing that Seema had married an Indian man, confessed his love for her and requested her to come back.

Pakistani Woman Seema Haider To Make Her Entry In Bollywood, Set To Play RAW Agent? Here's What We Know

He had also said that they had a love marriage and that he went to Saudi Arabia for work in 2019 after their financial condition got worse. Gulma has constantly demanded the return of Seema and the children to Pakistan. It remains to be seen what course this petition takes in the future.
Malaikottai Vaaliban Teaser Release: The highly anticipated period action film 'Malaikottai Vaaliban,' starring Mohanlal and directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, is set to release its teaser today at 5 p.m.

As the film gears up for its January 25 release, the impending teaser launch for Lijo Jose Pellissery's directorial venture has significantly heightened audience anticipation.

The forthcoming Malayalam-language period action film 'Malaikottai Vaaliban,' helmed by director Lijo Jose Pellissery, is slated for release on January 25, 2024. Shot over 130 days from January to June 2023 in diverse locations like Rajasthan, Chennai, and Pondicherry, the movie features a stellar cast led by Mohanlal, Sonalee Kulkarni, Hareesh Peradi, Danish Sait, and others. With Prashant Pillai handling the music, the film promises an enthralling mix of period drama and gripping action sequences.

At the wrap-up event of 'Malaikottai Vaaliban,' Mohanlal expressed that the film will offer audiences an unprecedented cinematic experience unlike anything seen before on Indian screens.

Tinu Pappachan, the Associate Director of 'Malaikottai Vaaliban,' in an earlier interview, left fans buzzing with excitement as he shared thrilling insights into the much-anticipated film.

According to Tinu Pappachan, the film promises to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience, with legendary actor Mohanlal's grand entrance set to make theatres tremble.

Tinu Pappachan's enthusiasm was palpable as he spoke about Mohanlal's introduction scene in the movie, expressing his desire to witness the first show from outside the theatre, believing it would be an unforgettable spectacle. He playfully shared, "I can't talk much about the movie because LJP will beat me. But I wish I could see the first show of the movie from outside the theatre instead of inside. One of my beliefs is that Lal Sir's introduction will really rock the theatre. That's the kind of introduction it is. If we look from outside, the theatre will be literally shaking. Lal sir's intro will be like that."

While Tinu Pappachan refrained from divulging precise scene details, his remarks piqued fan curiosity, building anticipation for the magic set to grace the silver screen. With the film's teaser mere hours away, fans are hopeful of catching a glimpse of Tinu's hinted elements in the teaser.

Malaikottai Vaaliban Cast and Crew

Produced by Shibu Baby John's John and Mary Creative in collaboration with Max Lab Cinemas and Century Films, "Malaikottai Vaaliban" boasts a stellar cast that includes Marathi actress Sonali Kulkarni, Hareesh Peradi, Hariprashanth Varma, Manikandan R. Achari, Suchithra Nair, Manoj Moses, and Bengali actress Katha Nandi.

While specific details about the film's plot remain closely guarded secrets, one thing is clear: "Malaikottai Vaaliban" promises an extraordinary cinematic experience, and fans around the world can hardly wait to embark on this thrilling journey come January 25, 2024.

Meanwhile, the courtroom drama 'Neru,' led by Mohanlal and Jeethu Joseph, is set to hit theatres on December 21. Recently, the makers unveiled a poster showcasing Mohanlal and Priyamani as advocates, teasing a legal showdown between the two. Despite somewhat understated promotions, expectations run high for 'Neru,' given the duo's track record of delivering blockbuster hits like 'Drishyam,' '12th Man,' and 'Drishyam 2'.
Phoenix, Arizona and Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 5, 2023) - YourWay Cannabis Brands Inc. (CSE: YOUR) (OTC: YOURF) ("YourWay" or the "Company") announced today that effective immediately the definitive agreement to sell Labtronix has been terminated. Accordingly, the special meeting of shareholders scheduled for December 28th, 2023 to vote on the sale of Labtronix, Inc. has been canceled.

Last week, Labtronix manufacturing location was visited by the fire department for a surprise inspection and was ordered to cease all extraction operations immediately until certain improvements are made to the facility. It is undetermined how long it will take to rectify this issue as it requires engineering and permitting through the City of Phoenix. In direct response to this infraction the License holder that Labtronix was operating under pulled the license from the building requiring all operations of Labtronix, Inc. to cease. The company is in discussions with the license holder to resolve the issue.

As a result of the aforementioned, the company received notification from the buyer, terminating the sale agreement.

About YourWay Cannabis Brands Inc.

YourWay was committed to redefining the way consumers and cannabis brands interact with the consumer. By building their own brands, partnering with others, they were dedicated to expanding their reach; remolding the cannabis industry and ultimately redefining how consumers and cannabis brands interact.

Website: www.yourwaycannabis.com

contact: ir@yourwaycannabis.com

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This news release may include "forward-looking information" as defined under applicable Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs, and current expectations of the Company with respect to future business activities and operating performance. Forward-looking information is 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 information.

The Company, through its subsidiaries, is involved in the manufacture, possession, use, sale, and distribution of cannabis in the United States. Local state laws where the Company operates permit such activities; however, investors should note there are significant legal restrictions and regulations that govern the cannabis industry in the United States. Cannabis remains illegal under federal law in the United States to cultivate, distribute or possess cannabis. Financial transactions involving proceeds generated by, or intended to promote, cannabis-related business activities may form the basis for prosecution under applicable federal money laundering legislation. The enforcement of federal laws in the United States is a significant risk to the business of the Company and any proceedings brought against the Company thereunder may adversely affect the Company's operations and financial performance.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/189974
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 5, 2023 / Torq Resources Inc. (TSXV:TORQ)(OTCQX:TRBMF) ("Torq" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the results of a trenching program at its Margarita iron-oxide-copper-gold (IOCG) project located approximately 65 kilometres (km) north of the city of Copiapo in Chile (Figure 1). The purpose of the trenching program was to further define the geometry of the mineralization at the Falla 13 discovery area as well as to evaluate undrilled target areas in the northern half of the project. The trenching program consisted of 443.5 metres (m), primarily along road cuts and drill platforms created during the phase III drill program. Trench 23MRT-001 intersected 34 m of 0.89 g/t gold and 0.22% copper along a prominent west-northwest structure that links the Falla 13 discovery area to the recently announced second discovery where 42 m of 1.1 g/t gold and 0.48% copper was intersected in drill hole 23MAR-031R (see October 18, 2023 news release) (Figure 2).

Trenching Technical Discussion:

The mineralized west-northwest structure that trench 23MRT-001 crossed was previously drilled in the Company's phase II drill program last year, when 30 m of 1.02 g/t gold and 0.57% copper (88 m - 118 m in depth) was intercepted within a larger interval of 130 m of 0.36 g/t gold and 0.28% copper in drill hole 22MAR-023R (see November 28, 2022 news release) (Figures 2 - 3). Trench 23MRT-001 is the most significant result from the trenching program as it demonstrates that the mineralization in drill hole 22MAR-023R continues to surface and has the potential to extend 1 km along the west-northwest structure (Figure 2). Table 1 below summarizes the highlights of the recently completed trench results.

Table 1: Highlights from the Margarita trenching program

Trench ID From (m) To (m) Length (m) Au (g/t) Cu (%) 23MRT-001 24 58 34 0.87 0.22 23MRT-009 2 7 5 0.91 0.21 23MRT-013 12 20 8 0.11 0.01 23MRT-015 0 2 2 0.35 0.03 23MRT-016 0 2 2 0.21 0.09 23MRT-020 0 2 2 0.11 0.05 23MRT-021 4 10 6 0.32 0.06 23MRT-022 0 4 4 0.31 0.21 23MRT-022 16 22 6 0.29 0.05 23MRT-027 8 12 4 0.32 0.06 Intervals - no less than 5m of >= 0.1 g/t Au, maximum consecutive dilution 6m

Margarita Phase III Drill Results:

The Company has also received the results from the remaining seven drill holes from the phase III drill program. While intersecting some zones of anomalous mineralization, the results did not materially add to the known information about the project. The Company will now continue to focus on the discoveries made at the Falla 13, Cototuda and Margarita structural corridors. In addition, the Company will continue to refine its targeting based on the results from drill hole 23MAR-031R, where 42 m of 1.1 g/t gold and 0.48% copper was intercepted from 246 m - 288 m in depth 200 m to the west of the original Falla 13 discovery. There was no geochemical anomaly present on surface, making this a 'blind' discovery based on permissive geology. Results from the final seven drill holes of the phase III drill program are presented below in Table 2.

Table 2: Margarita phase III drill results

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Length (m) Au (g/t) Cu (%) Cu (%) Au (g/t) 0.1 g/t Au Cutoff1 0.1% Cu Cutoff2 23MAR-029R 44 46 2 0.33 0.13 - - 226 228 2 0.37 0.16 - - 23MAR-030R 146 172 26 0.18 0.09 - - 166 172 6 - - 0.32 0.34 186 188 2 0.52 0.05 - - 23MAR-032R 180 184 4 - - 0.30 0.07 224 226 2 - - 0.53 0.12 23MAR-033R No significant interval 23MAR-034R 0 24 24 - - 0.11 0.03 48 52 4 - - 0.20 0.04 23MAR-037R 38 52 14 0.45 0.05 - - 62 66 4 0.63 0.06 - - 70 80 10 - - 0.35 0.06 148 158 10 - - 0.10 0.02 23Mar-038R 0 2 2 - - 0.36 0.11 54 58 4 - - 0.24 0.03 70 74 4 - - 0.16 0.15 Interval - No less than 5m of >= 0.1 g/t Au, maximum consecutive dilution 6m Interval - No less than 5m of >= 0.1 % Cu, maximum consecutive dilution 8m

Figure 1: Illustrates the location of the Margarita project within the Coastal Cordillera belt and its proximity to major deposits in the region.

Figure 2: Illustrates the position of trench 23MRT-001, which crossed a prominent mineralized west-northwest structure, known to be mineralized from drill hole 22MAR-023R which intercepted 30m of 1.02g/t gold and 0.57% copper in the phase II drill program. Trench 23MRT-001 intercepted 34 m of 0.87 g/t gold and 0.22% copper, extending the mineralization from drill hole 22MAR-023R to surface. Target fault zones at the Falla 13 discovery area are highlighted by the red polygons.

Figure 3: Illustrates the position of the remaining seven drill holes from the Margarita program, as highlighted by the orange drill collars. Anomalous intervals from the remaining seven drill holes included 14 m of 0.45 g/t gold and 0.05% copper in drill hole 23MAR-037R and 26 m of 0.18 g/t gold and 0.09% copper in drill hole 23MAR-030R.

Financing and Corporate Updates:

The Company advises that its Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), Elizabeth Senez, will be leaving the Company by year-end to pursue a CFO role at a mid-tier mining company. While the Company completes the recruitment process for a successor, an accounting services firm, which performed the CFO role during the recent 4-month parental leave of the departing CFO, will again step into the interim role until a permanent replacement is recruited. The Company's CEO, Shawn Wallace, stated "On behalf of Torq and the Board, I would like to thank Libby for her meaningful contributions to the Company over the last three years. We wish her all the best in her future endeavours."

The Company's previously announced prospectus supplement offering of a minimum of $4 million to a maximum of $6 million of equity units is now expected to complete by mid-December 2023. The Company also announces that the maturity date of the Company's 2022 credit facility, currently drawn in the amount C$2.5 million, has been extended by agreement with the lender from July 11, 2024 until July 11, 2025. In consideration of the extension, the Company has agreed to cancel the lender's July 11, 2024 share purchase warrants (3,333,333 at $0.60 and 769,231 at $0.65) and issue a total of 7,500,000 share purchase warrants with an exercise price of $0.35 with expiry date of July 11, 2025. The creditor warrants have a blocker limiting exercise to the extent the holder would thereby exceed 9.9% of issued shares.

The Company's principal shareholder, Gold Fields Atacama Holdings Inc., a wholly owned affiliate of Gold Fields Limited ("Gold Fields"), has reaffirmed its commitment to purchase equity in connection with the supplement offering, but given the terms of its September 6, 2022 investment agreement with the Company (filed at sedarplus.ca on September 20, 2022) Gold Fields' affiliate will do so by concurrent private placement of units with the same terms as the prospectus supplement units. The units to be purchased by Gold Fields will differ from the units offered under the supplement in that the warrants included in those units will be subject to a blocker provision limiting exercise of the warrants to a percentage of issued common shares of Torq, which percentage is still under discussion. The common shares and warrants of Torq that will be issued to Gold Fields will have a four month hold and the warrants will have a term of up to 60 months because of the requirements of the blocker and the terms of the 2022 investment agreement. Both the credit facility warrants and the Gold Fields' affiliate's participation are subject to customary TSX Venture Exchange approval.

Michael Henrichsen (Chief Geological Officer), P.Geo is the QP who assumes responsibility for the technical contents of this release.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD,

Shawn Wallace

CEO

For further information on Torq Resources, please visit www.torqresources.com or contact Natasha Frakes, VP, Communications at (778) 729-0500 or info@torqresources.com.

About Torq Resources

Torq is a Vancouver-based copper and gold exploration company with a portfolio of premium holdings in Chile. The Company is establishing itself as a leader of new exploration in prominent mining belts, guided by responsible, respectful and sustainable practices. The Company was built by a management team with prior success in monetizing exploration assets and its specialized technical team is recognized for their extensive experience working with major mining companies, supported by robust safety standards and technical proficiency. The technical team includes Chile-based geologists with invaluable local expertise and a noteworthy track record for major discovery in the country. Torq is committed to operating at the highest standards of applicable environmental, social and governance practices in the pursuit of a landmark discovery. For more information, visit www.torqresources.com.

2023 Margarita Trench Sampling

Approximately 2-5 kg of material were taken from each 2 m trench interval and sent to ALS Lab in Copiapo, Chile for preparation and then to ALS Labs in Santiago, Chile and Lima, Peru for analysis. Preparation included crushing core sample to 90% < 2mm and pulverizing 1,000 g of crushed material to better than 85% < 75 microns. All samples are assayed using 30 g nominal weight fire assay with AAS finish (Au-AA23), multi-element four acid digest ICP-AES/ICP-MS method (ME-MS61), and copper sulphuric acid leach with AAS finish (Cu-AA05). QA/QC programs for 2023 trench samples using internal standard samples, field and lab duplicates, standards and blanks indicate good accuracy and precision in a large majority of standards assayed.

Margarita RC Drilling

Analytical samples were taken using 1/8 of each 2 m interval material (chips) and sent to ALS Lab in Copiapo, Chile for preparation and then to ALS Labs in Santiago, Chile and Lima, Peru for analysis. Preparation included crashing core sample to 90% < 2mm and pulverizing 1,000 g of crushed material to better than 85% < 75 microns. All samples are assayed using 50 g nominal weight fire assay with AAS finish (Au-AA24), multi-element four acid digest ICP-AES/ICP-MS method (ME-MS61), and copper sulphuric acid leach with AAS finish (Cu-AA05). Where MS61 results were greater or near 10,000 ppm Cu the assays were repeated with ore grade four acid digest method (Cu-OG62). QA/QC programs for 2023 RC drilling samples using internal standard samples, field and lab duplicates, standards and blanks indicate good accuracy and precision in a large majority of standards assayed.

True widths of mineralization are unknown based on current geometric understanding of the mineralized intervals.

Canadian mineral terminology and standards differ from those of other countries. The Company's public disclosure filings highlight some of these differences.

Forward Looking Information

This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking information is information that includes implied future performance and/or forecast information including information relating to, or associated with, exploration and or development of mineral properties, completion of the prospectus supplement offering, and TSX Venture Exchange approval of share and share purchase warrant issuances. These statements or graphical information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different (either positively or negatively) from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. For a discussion of risk factors which could adversely affect the forward looking statements, see the Company's public record filings 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: Torq Resources Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/813570/torq-trenches-34-metres-of-089-gt-gold-and-022-copper-in-the-falla-13-discovery-area-at-margarita-provides-financing-and-corporate-updates
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 5, 2023 / Empress Royalty Corp. (TSXV:EMPR)(OTCQX:EMPYF) ("Empress Royalty" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that on December 5, 2023, the Company entered into a US$28.5M Accordion Credit Facility (the "Credit Facility") with Nebari Gold Fund 1, LP and Nebari Natural Resources Credit Fund II, LP (collectively, "Nebari"). The Credit Facility will replace the existing US$15M facility that the Company currently has in place with Nebari Natural Resources Credit Fund I LP (the "Initial Facility"). The Company expects to initially drawdown approximately US$3.5M (the "Initial Loan"), the proceeds of which will be used to repay the existing facility and associated costs and provide working capital to the Company. In addition, the accordion feature (the "Accordion Feature") of the Credit Facility allows the Company to drawdown additional amounts under the Credit Facility for future investments.

"I am pleased to announce we have executed definitive agreements for a new US$28.5M Credit Facility with Nebari," stated Alexandra Woodyer Sherron, CEO and President of Empress Royalty. "We would like to thank Nebari for their continued support of Empress' growth and strategic vision. The refinancing will enable us to execute on our pipeline of opportunities. We are extremely excited for the future of Empress as this facility, combined with our projected revenue from our revenue generating investments, will allow us to further advance our development plans for Empress."

Juan Alvarez, Managing Director at Nebari, stated "We are pleased to be extending our support of Empress Royalty in their growth strategy by entering into this Credit Facility and upsizing the Accordion. We are delighted to have seen Empress Royalty develop from a company with one revenue producing streaming and royalty asset to the current three, and we look forward to their continued growth."

The Credit Facility shall bear interest at a rate of 7.5% per annum plus 3-month Term SOFR (3.5% floor). An arrangement fee of 2.0% of each draw made under the Credit Facility is payable on closing, together with reimbursement of Nebari's costs for each draw made. In addition, an original issue discount (the "OID") of 4.25% is applicable to all loans made under the Credit Facility resulting in the Initial Principal Amount being approximately US$3.6M. The Credit Facility is secured against the existing investment assets of the Company. The Initial Loan has a term of three years, and any addition draws under the Accordion Feature will have a term of three years from that date of drawdown.

On closing of the Initial Loan, the Company will issue to Nebari, a total of 3,104,513 common share purchase warrants (the "Bonus Warrants"), of which 2,535,633 which will replace the share purchase warrants currently issued and outstanding in connection with the Initial Facility. Each Bonus Warrant is exercisable into one common share for a period of three years from the Initial Loan and will be priced at $0.31, which is a nil premium to the 20-day volume weighted average trading price of the Company on the date of signing the agreements (the "Pricing Date") with a floor of the market price on the Pricing Date. Nebari is also entitled to receive additional Bonus Warrants (the "Accordion Bonus Warrants") in connection with any further drawdowns made under the Accordion Feature of the Credit Facility. The issuance of any Accordion Bonus Warrants is subject to the prior approval of the TSX Venture Exchange at the time of issue. All Accordion Bonus Warrants will have a three-year term from the date issue.

The terms of the Credit Facility, including the issuance of the Bonus Warrants and the Accordion Bonus Warrants, remains subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. Endeavour Financial acted as Empress Royalty's financial advisor and investment manager.

ABOUT NEBARI

Nebari is a private fund focused on financing bespoke debt and convertible debt facilities for public and private companies within the resources sector. Nebari's leadership team has extensive technical, financial, and operational experience with leading global mining companies providing it with a true competitive edge. Nebari is actively seeking to partner with motivated and capable management teams focused on achieving clear plan targets. Nebari is based in Miami and has a team of partners located globally, including in London, Madrid, Zug, and Anchorage. Learn more at: www.nebari.com.

ABOUT EMPRESS ROYALTY CORP.

Empress is a global royalty and streaming creation company providing investors with a diversified portfolio of gold and silver investments. Empress has built a portfolio of precious metal investments and is actively investing in mining companies with development and production stage projects who require additional non-dilutive capital. The Company has strategic partnerships with Endeavour Financial and Terra Capital which allow Empress to not only access global investment opportunities but also bring unique mining finance expertise, deal structuring and access to capital markets. Empress is looking forward to continuously creating value for its shareholders through the proven royalty and streaming models.

ON BEHALF OF EMPRESS ROYALTY CORP.

Per: Alexandra Woodyer Sherron, CEO and President

For further information, please visit our website at www.empressroyalty.com or contact Kaitlin Taylor, Investor Communications, by email at info@empressroyalty.com or by phone at +1.604.331.2080.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Forward Looking Information

The information contained herein includes "forward-looking statements" and "forward looking information" as defined under applicable Canadian securities laws ("forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements and information can generally be identified by the use of terms such as "may", "will", "should", "expect", "intend", "estimate" ,"continue", "believe", "plans", "anticipate" or similar terms.

Forward-looking information and statements include, but are not limited to, statements or information regarding the Credit Facility with Nebari described herein, and statements with respect to the activities, events or developments that Empress Royalty Corp. ("Empress" or the "Company") expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including those regarding future growth and ability to create new streams or royalties, the development and focus of the Company , its acquisition strategy, the plans and expectations of the operators of the projects underlying its interests, including the proposed advancement and expansion of such projects; the results of exploration, development and production activities of the operators of such projects; and the Company's expectations regarding future revenues.

Forward-looking information and statements are based on the then current expectations, beliefs, assumptions, estimates and forecasts about Empress's business and the industry and markets in which it operates. Forward-looking information and statements are made based upon numerous assumptions and although the assumptions made by the Company in providing forward-looking information and statements are considered reasonable by management at the time, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking information and statements also involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performances and achievements of Empress to differ materially from any projections of results, performances and achievements of Empress including, without limitation, any inability of the operators of the properties underlying the Company's royalty and stream interests to execute proposed plans for such properties or to achieve planned development and production estimates and goals, risks related to the operators of the projects in which the Company holds interests, including the successful continuation of operations at such projects by those operators, risks related to exploration, development, permitting, infrastructure, operating or technical difficulties on any such projects, risks related to international operations, government relations and environmental regulation, uncertainty relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future and the Company's ability to carry out its growth plans as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and other related risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of important factors which could cause actual results to differ from forward-looking statements, refer to the annual information form of Empress Royalty Corp. for the year ended December 31, 2022 and its other publicly filed documents under its profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information and statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information and statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or reissue forward-looking information as a result of new information or events except as required by applicable securities laws. Disclosure relating to properties in which Empress holds royalty or stream interests is based on information publicly disclosed by the owners or operators of such properties. The Company generally has limited or no access to the properties underlying its interests and is largely dependent on the disclosure of the operators of its interests and other publicly available information. The Company generally has limited or no ability to verify such information. Although the Company does not have any knowledge that such information may not be accurate, there can be no assurance that such third-party information is complete or accurate. In addition, certain information publicly reported by operators may relate to a larger property than the area covered by the Company's interest, which often may only apply to a portion of the overall project area or applicable mineral resources or reserves.

SOURCE: Empress Royalty Corp.

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SINGAPORE, Dec 6, 2023 - (ACN Newswire) - SMI Vantage Limited ("SMI" or the "Company"), a company listed on the mainboard of the SGX, is pleased to announce the signing of a Lease Agreement ("the Agreement") by its wholly-owned subsidiary SMI CS Pte Ltd. This is further to the previously announced Offer to Rent Agreement. The Agreement allows SMI Vantage to start Bitcoin-mining in a new location in East Malaysia in December 2023. SMI Vantage will be installing containerised mining facilities at the site and acquiring new Bitcoin-mining machines, which together will enhance the cost effectiveness of i's BTC mining operation.Reference:https://links.sgx.com/FileOpen/SMI-Media%20Release_6%20Dec%202023.ashx?App=Announcement&FileID=780086About SMI VantageSMI Vantage Limited is an investment and management company focused on capitalising on strong trends in the new economy including Food and Beverage related businesses, technology-based SaaS services and other high-tech platforms. Listed on the Main Board of the Singapore Stock Exchange, SMI Vantage Limited has a highly capable and experienced management team with a proven track record in building strong business partnerships and alliances.For media queries, please reach out to:Waterbrooks Consultants Pte LtdWayne Koo - wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sg +65 9338-8166Derek Yeo - derek@waterbrooks.com.sg +65 9791-4707Proud Investor Relations partner: https://www.waterbrooks.com.sg/ and https://www.shareinvestorholdings.com/Source: SMI VantageCopyright 2023 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
KD College Prep hosted its first college fair with the DFW Admissions Regional Network (DARN) at the campus located in Frisco, TX. About 64 KD students and their families attended the event, which featured booths from 19 colleges located outside of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

Coppell, Texas--(Newsfile Corp. - December 5, 2023) - On Nov. 2, 2023, KD College Prep hosted its first college fair with the DFW Admissions Regional Network (DARN) at the campus located in Frisco, TX. About 64 KD students and their families attended the event, which featured booths from 19 colleges located outside of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.





KD College Prep Hosts College Fair With Admissions Staff From 19 Colleges

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"It was a great opportunity for our students to get a deeper understanding of a variety of schools, including some that were to them less familiar hidden gems. We intentionally wanted our families to use our event to be better prepared for other college fairs and college visits," said David Dillard, CEO of KD College Prep.

Colleges in attendance included the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Tarleton State University, Hendrix College, the University of Nebraska, Wichita State University, Butler University, Temple University, and others. Most of the attending representatives are members of DARN, a community of regional admissions professionals representing non-profit colleges. The organization worked closely with KD staff to plan and execute the event.

The college fair was open to current 11th grade students enrolled in programs at KD College Prep. Students talked with college representatives, asked questions, and learned about colleges from nine different states across the U.S.

College fairs provide students with the opportunity to talk directly with college admissions staff. Learning how to do this effectively can become a vital skill in the college admissions process.

"Being prepared with the right questions, being ready to present themselves well to college reps, and being alert for any information that could contribute to their ultimate college decisions can be game changers," Dillard said.

KD encourages students to attend college fairs, along with campus visits and information sessions, to explore college options and become familiar with talking about their future plans. To learn more, families can access KD's college fair guide, which gives tips on what to do before, during, and after an event.

Dillard said KD College Prep hopes to host additional college fairs and similar events in the future.

All university names and/or marks are owned by their respective institutions. KD College Prep has no affiliation with these institutions and KD College Prep is not approved or endorsed by them.

CONTACT: Name: David Dillard Organization: KD College Prep Address: 621 TX 121 Suite 450 Coppell, TX 75019, United States Phone: (972) 906-8825, Website: kdcollegeprep.com/college-fair-guide/.

Contact Info:

Name: Jenny Moore

Email: j.moore@kdcollegeprep.com

Organization: KD College Prep

Address: 621 Texas 121 Suite 450, Coppell, TX 75019, United States

Website: https://kdcollegeprep.com/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/190024
Fliggy X Paris Region Pass and Online Chinese Customer Service Center are jointly launched to create better travel experiences

HANGZHOU, China, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fliggy, a leading online travel platform and wholly-owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA and HKEX: 9988), signed a letter of intent with Choose Paris Region, a business growth and destination agency for the Paris Region, to deepen collaboration on digital marketing and customer services. At the signing ceremony in Hangzhou, the two parties jointly announced the launch of Fliggy X Paris Region Pass and Online Chinese Customer Service Center.

As China's outbound tourism recovers rapidly, the Fliggy X Paris Region Pass, which offers admission to the top attractions in the city, will soon be available for purchase on Fliggy. Once consumers order a Fliggy X Paris Region Pass on the platform, they will be able to redeem a physical card and a hand-drawn map showing popular tourist attractions with creative travel hacks at designated stores at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport or in downtown areas.

An Online Chinese Customer Service Center will also be set up to provide 24/7 customer support for Chinese tourists in France. Additionally, the two parties will further explore the use of technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and live streaming to create an immersive experience of touring museums and art venues.

Dangxing Chu, Head of International Vacation Business at Fliggy, said: "We have wanted to launch a city pass with Choose Paris Region for some time to enable Chinese tourists to experience the utter beauty and unparalleled charm of this region. This will now become a reality."

Travel between China and France is increasing. Fliggy's data reveals that orders for visa services to France so far this year are more than seven times higher compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in China recently announced that French ordinary passport holders can do business or travel in China without a visa for up to 15 days from December 2023 to November 2024.

"Chinese tourists are now favoring self-guided tours rather than group tours when traveling to Paris," said Christophe Decloux, Deputy Managing Director of Choose Paris Region. "We see creating supreme visitor experience as our primary goal. We aim to help our visitors gain a deeper understanding of the city and the Parisian way of life. Paris will be hosting the Summer Olympics and the 150th Anniversary of Impressionism in 2024, and we hope to bring Chinese tourists better services and travel experiences through our joint efforts at these exciting moments."

Zhuoran Zhuang, CEO of Fliggy, said: "Steeped in France's profound history and rich culture, the Paris Region has long been a must-visit destination for Chinese travelers. Through this collaboration, we can combine Fliggy's ecosystem and innovations with Choose Paris Region's rich travel resources to better showcase the uniqueness of the beautiful city, as well as create more exciting travel experiences, thus contributing to the bright future of Sino-French cultural tourism."

About Fliggy

Fliggy is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA), and is one of the leading online travel platforms in China. Fliggy places a strong emphasis on innovation in its products and services, catering to the increasingly personalized and diversified needs of consumers both in China and overseas markets.

Leveraging Fliggy's advantage as part of the Alibaba ecosystem, merchants can benefit from the vast user base within the Group. Fliggy also collaborates with partners through a full-service management format, helping more merchants, especially small and medium-sized ones, easily and efficiently share opportunities enabled by digitalization.

Fliggy's long-term strategy is to promote the digital transformation of the tourism industry, using an open platform and mechanisms to help the industry make better use of digital business infrastructure for their operations.

Media Contacts

Fliggy

FliggyMedia@alibaba-inc.com

Paradigm Consulting

Lynn Huang

fliggy@paradigmconsulting.com.hk

+852 5332 1549

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The global fire pump market is experiencing growth due to several factors such as the expansion of various industries, such as manufacturing, petrochemical, and energy, which necessitates robust fire safety measures. Fire pumps play a crucial role in protecting industrial facilities and ensuring the safety of personnel and assets.

WILMINGTON, Del., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, " Fire Pump Market by Product Type (Horizontal Split Case, Vertical Split Case, Vertical Turbine, Vertical In-Line, and End Suction), Powered Basis (Diesel, Electric, Gasoline, and Others), and Application (Industry Application, Commercial Application, Field Emergency, and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the global fire pump market was valued at $0.7 billion in 2022, and is projected to reach $1.1 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2023 to 2032.

Request PDF Brochure: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/14089

Prime determinants of growth

The global fire pump market is experiencing growth due to several factors such as smart and efficient systems in fire pump technology where the Internet of Things (IoT), fire pumps are equipped with sensors that collect data on various parameters, such as pressure, temperature, and flow rates. However, the high initial costs of fire pump hinders the market growth to some extent. Moreover, the green and sustainable fire pump technologies offers remunerative opportunities for the expansion of the fire pump market.

Report coverage & details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2032 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2022 $0.7 billion Market Size in 2032 $1.1 billion CAGR 4.6 % No. of Pages in Report 270 Segments covered Product Type, Powered Basis, Application, and Region. Drivers  Smart and efficient systems in fire pump technology  Growth in oil and gas exploration activities Opportunities  Green and sustainable fire pump technologies Restraints  High initial costs of fire pump

The horizontal split case segment is expected to grow faster throughout the forecast period.

By product type, the horizontal split cast segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly one third of the global fire pump market revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. This is due to horizontal split-case fire pumps are commonly used in fire protection systems to ensure a reliable water supply for firefighting. These pumps are designed to efficiently handle large volumes of water at high pressures. However, the horizontal split-case segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 5.2% from 2023 to 2032

Procure Complete Report (270 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures) @

http://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/checkout-final/fire-pump-market

The diesel segment is expected to lead the trail by 2032

By powered basis, the diesel segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly two fifth of the global fire pump market revenue and is estimated to dominate during the forecast period. This can be attributed to the fact that Diesel fire pumps find extensive use in industrial applications where large volumes of water are required to fight potential fires. Industries such as petrochemicals, manufacturing, and mining often rely on diesel fire pumps as a primary source of firefighting water supply due to their robustness and ability to function in diverse environmental conditions. However, the other segments including dual pump, steam, and others are projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 5.2% from 2023 to 2032, as dual fire pumps are often employed in critical applications where uninterrupted fire protection is paramount, such as in hospitals, data centers, and high-rise buildings.

The industry application segment is expected to grow faster throughout the forecast period.

By application, the industry application segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for two fifth of the global fire pump market revenue and is likely to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period. This can be attributed to the fact that manufacturing plants, refineries, and chemical processing units utilize fire pumps to enhance the efficiency of their fire protection systems. The pumps are designed to handle various types of emergencies, from small fires to large-scale incidents, providing the necessary water flow and pressure to control and extinguish the flames. However, the industry application segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 5.1% from 2023 to 2032.

For Purchase Inquiry: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/fire-pump-market/purchase-options

Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2032.

By region, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share and fastest growing region in terms of revenue in 2022 representing for 5.0% of the CAGR, accounting for more than one third of the global fire pump market revenue, and is expected to rule in terms of revenue throughout the forecast timeframe. Asia-Pacific countries are home to a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, petrochemicals, and power generation. These industries often involve the handling of flammable materials, making them susceptible to fires. Fire pumps are integral to industrial fire protection systems, providing the necessary water flow and pressure to control and extinguish fires effectively.

Leading Market Players: -

SHAANXI AEROSPACE POWER HI-TECH CO. LTD

CANARIIS CORPORATION

GRUNDFOS PUMPS CORPORATION

XYLEM

PENTAIR PLC

CET FIRE PUMPS MFG INC

EBARA CORPORATION

SULZER LTD.

SHANGHAI ZHONG QUAN PUMP MANUFACTURING CO. LTD

SHANGHAI LIANCHENG (GROUP) CO., LTD

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global fire pump market. These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario.

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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.

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Vivoryon Therapeutics N.V. Reports Third Quarter 2023 Financial Results and Highlights Operational Progress





VIVIAD and VIVA-MIND studies both advancing as planned at 600mg twice daily following positive DSMB decisions; VIVIAD safety update with cut-off as of November 20, 2023, confirms low level of discontinuations

On track to report VIVIAD final topline Phase 2b data during end of Q1/2024

Commenced preparations for VIVALONG, an open-label extension study

Unveiling focused growth strategy leveraging varoglutamstat and VIVIAD and investing in QPCT/L small molecule platform

Chief Financial Officer transition with promotion of Anne Doering, CFA, effective March 1, 2024

Management to host conference call today at 3:00 pm CET (9:00 am EST)





Halle (Saale) / Munich, Germany, December 6, 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 announced financial results for the third quarter of 2023, ended September 30, 2023, and provided an update on its corporate progress.

"In the third quarter of 2023, we continued to make significant progress with the clinical development of our core asset, varoglutamstat. From learnings across currently approved monoclonal antibodies, we see a clear unmet need among early Alzheimer's disease patients for a safe and effective oral therapy and we believe that varoglutamstat can address this gap," said Frank Weber, MD, CEO of Vivoryon. "We are preparing for the upcoming European Phase 2b VIVIAD study readout during the end of the first quarter of 2024 and potential discussions with the FDA thereafter. Separately, we have initiated the identification of novel oral QPTC/L inhibitors as second generation compounds in early AD from our oral small molecule platform. We are also integrating additional biomarkers of kidney function into the VIVIAD study to assess the potential of QPCT/L inhibitors in chronic kidney disease. We are committed to growing Vivoryon into a leading biotech company with our highly attractive programs that have prospects in multiple disease areas with high unmet need including AD, chronic kidney disease, NASH, oncology and orphan CNS."

Dr. Weber continued, "I would also like to express my gratitude to Florian Schmid, our CFO, who has decided not to renew his contract as a member of the Vivoryon executive leadership team and pursue other opportunities. Florian has played a significant role in increasing the quality of our financial position and processes over the last several years. In light of this transition, I am excited to announce the promotion of Anne Doering as CFO whose extensive capital markets experience will be instrumental to Vivoryon's next phase of growth. To ensure a smooth transition we are pleased that Florian plans to continue with us as a strategic advisor after Anne assumes the CFO role."





Q3 2023 and Post-Period Portfolio Highlights

Varoglutamstat Clinical Program:

Varoglutamstat is a differentiated investigational small-molecule medicine in development to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD). It is currently being investigated in two large Phase 2 studies, VIVIAD (NCT04498650) in Europe and VIVA-MIND (NCT03919162) in the U.S., where it continues to show evidence of a favorable safety profile at the therapeutic dose of 600mg twice daily (BID), a dose demonstrated to result in a target occupancy of nearly 90%. In addition, VIVALONG, an 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 generate relevant pharmacoeconomic data.

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 impact on tau pathology.





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.

In July 2023, Vivoryon announced a safety update based on data from all 259 randomized patients which showed no clinical signs of varoglutamstat associated ARIAs at the cutoff date of June 14, 2023. The independent Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) decided the study should continue as planned and that no additional DSMB meeting will be required until study completion.

In October 2023, Vivoryon hosted a virtual R&D Event with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) focused on the clinical utility of primary and secondary endpoints of the VIVIAD study. 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).

In the VIVIAD study, discontinuation rates to date remain favorable (cut-off date of November 20, 2023). The total number of discontinuations remains low in VIVIAD throughout the study at less than 13% based on blinded data. In addition, the number of discontinuations due to adverse events (AEs) has remained at less than 4%.

The statistical power of VIVIAD to detect a potential treatment difference of Cohen's d of 0.35 between active and placebo is confirmed to be above 80% as assumed in the study protocol.

Vivoryon remains on track to share final topline data during the end of the first quarter of 2024 and the full dataset at a subsequent medical meeting. Following the VIVIAD data readout, the Company expects to conduct an end of Phase 2 meeting with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the second half of 2024. The end of the active treatment phase in VIVIAD is estimated to occur by year end 2023, which is then followed by a minimum period of four weeks of safety follow-up visits with rigorous data and statistical analysis thereafter. Vivoryon expects the final VIVIAD dataset to include an evaluation of patients following the 12-week titration period, which is the same for every patient randomized to the active arm. The 600mg BID is applied in approximately 75% of the treatment weeks of all patients and the 300mg BID is applied in approximately 25% of the treatment weeks.







VIVA-MIND

VIVA-MIND (NCT03919162) is a complementary Phase 2 study for varoglutamstat being conducted in the U.S. which seeks to enroll 180 patients with early AD into the Phase 2a adaptive dose finding portion and to enroll a further 234 patients in the Phase 2b portion of the study. VIVA-MIND is running in parallel to VIVIAD to provide robust evidence on slowing AD progression and to support Vivoryon's regulatory strategy.

In October 2023, Vivoryon announced that the study's independent DSMB unanimously recommend that VIVA-MIND should proceed with a dose of 600mg BID through the remainder of Phase 2a and 2b. This decision follows the September 2023 DSMB quarterly safety review of adverse events and labs, and the October 2023 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. VIVA-MIND is continuing to recruit participants into the second cohort, with 21 sites open across the U.S.

Vivoryon's regulatory strategy for VIVA-MIND follows an adaptive trial design which includes the option to expand the study to a confirmatory Phase 3 study contingent on VIVIAD results and regulatory feedback.





VIVALONG

In July 2023, Vivoryon announced that it commenced preparations for an open-label extension (OLE) study, 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.





Early-Stage Pipeline and Kidney Disease Exploration:

Vivoryon is unveiling additional opportunities in R&D activities stemming from its proprietary oral small molecule QPCT/L inhibitor platform. Following the VIVIAD readout, Vivoryon plans to leverage findings to further bolster its platform capabilities and potentially nominate new development projects in 2024.

The Company has initiated the identification of novel oral QPCT/L inhibitors as second generation compounds in early AD.

The VIVIAD study will now include additional biomarkers to investigate the effect of QPCT/L inhibition on kidney function.

Activities to identify suitable new chemical entity (NCE) oral QPCT/L inhibitors as potential development projects in 2024 are underway in multiple disease areas including AD, chronic kidney disease, NASH, oncology and orphan CNS, such as Huntington's disease and Down syndrome.





Corporate Development Updates:

In September 2023, Vivoryon held an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) related to the appointment of Frank Weber, MD, as CEO and Anne Doering, CFA, as Chief Strategy & Investor Relations Officer (CS&IRO). The shareholders approved all items on the agenda of the meeting, including the appointment of Dr. Weber and Anne Doering to the Company's Board as executive directors.

The Company announced the appointment of Anne Doering as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), leveraging Ms. Doering's deep capital markets experience and enabling a smooth management transition as she succeeds Florian Schmid on March 1, 2024.





Financial Results for the Third Quarter of 2023

No revenues were generated in the nine months ended September 30, 2023, or the nine months ended September 30, 2022.

Research and development expenses of EUR 10.4 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2023, decreased by EUR 5.6 million compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2022. This decrease is primarily attributable to EUR 3.0 million lower expenses related to our clinical trial VIVIAD and EUR 2.6 million lower manufacturing cost for study drug production.

General and administrative expenses of EUR 6.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, increased by EUR 2.6 million from EUR 4.2 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2022. The main reasons for the increase were EUR 0.9 million higher personnel costs, EUR 0.9 million higher costs for the non-executive Board and EUR 0.8 million higher consulting costs. The reasons for the cost increases in personnel and the non-executive Board were predominantly caused by accelerated share-option expenses and severance payments as a result of the 2023 Board changes.

Net loss of EUR 17.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, compares to EUR 18.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2022.

The Company held EUR 17.0 million in cash and cash equivalents as of September 30, 2023, compared to EUR 26.6 million as of December 31, 2022. In the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company entered into Euro term deposits of EUR 16.0 million resulting in a disclosure of these funds in the balance sheet as financial assets. Combining the cash and cash equivalents with the term deposits, Vivoryon has EUR 33.0 million in liquid funds at its disposal.

Cash flows used in operating activities were EUR (33.3) million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, compared to EUR (14.7) million in the nine months ended September 30, 2022. The change in operating cash flow by EUR (18.5) million mainly results from newly disclosed term deposits with a term of more than three months of EUR (16.0) million that are disclosed in the Company's financial assets and not in cash equivalents as well as other changes in working capital. Excluding this shift in cash to term deposits, cash flows used in operating activities would have been EUR (17.3) million.

Cash flows used in investing activities were EUR (0.5) million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, compared to EUR 2.0 thousand in the nine months ended September 30, 2022.

Cash flows provided from financing activities were EUR 24.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, including EUR 1.3 million from the exercise of share options, compared to EUR 19.1 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2022.





Financial Guidance

Including the proceeds from the capital raise completed in May 2023, according to current planning and estimates, Vivoryon expects that its existing cash and cash equivalents will be sufficient to fund its research and development expenses, as well as the general and administrative expenses and cash flows from investing and financing activities into the second half of 2024. This guidance does not include potential milestone payments from development partnerships, potential payments from licensing agreements and/or additional financing measures, as exercise of the options granted in connection with the private placement announced September 30, 2022 (see note 8.11 of the Company's annual financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2022).





Conference Call and Webcast

Vivoryon will host a conference call and webcast today, December 6, 2023, at 3:00 pm CET (9:00 am EST). A Q&A session will follow the presentation of the third quarter results.

A live webcast and slides will be made available at: www.vivoryon.com/investors-news/news-and-events/presentations-webcasts/



To join the conference call via phone, participants may pre-register and will receive dedicated dial-in details to easily and quickly access the call via the following website: https://register.vevent.com/register/BI44eb013feef24cb5818e6711539120de



It is suggested participants dial into the conference call 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to avoid any delays in attendance.

Approximately one day after the call, a slide-synchronized audio replay of the conference will be available on: www.vivoryon.com/investors-news/news-and-events/presentations-webcasts/



###

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

Janhavi Mohite

Tel: +1 212-362-1200

Email: janhavi.mohite@sternir.com



Media Contact

Trophic Communications

Valeria Fisher

Tel: +49 175 8041816

Email: vivoryon@trophic.eu



Attachment
CHICAGO, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Future of Hydrogen in Automotive is expected to reach 1,280 thousand Units by 2035 from 20 thousand Units in 2022 at a CAGR of 37.6% during the 2022-2035 period according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. While battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) have gained rapid traction in recent years, hydrogen offers several advantages. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) are particularly suited for large sized vehicles, such as trucks and buses, where battery capacity limitations inhibit the performance. Additionally, development in hydrogen infrastructure is rapidly progressing, addressing concerns about fuel availability.

Factors such as rising demand for zero-emissions commuting and government support for low-emission vehicles through subsidies and tax breaks have resulted in automakers embracing EVs and the expansion of the electric light commercial vehicle market. Government bodies are supporting zero emission vehicles over petrol or diesel automobiles due to growing worries about increased pollution by the automotive industry. People have acknowledged the importance of promoting zero-emission vehicles in order to prevent pollution. Government agencies in several countries are proposing attractive plans and incentives to entice and encourage individuals to acquire ELCVs, such as substantial discounts, reduction in taxes, lower road charges for zero emission vehicles, and others.

Browse in-depth TOC on "Future of Hydrogen in Automotive"

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Future of Hydrogen in Automotive Scope:

Report Coverage Details Units in 2022 20 thousand Units Estimated Units by 2035 1,280 thousand Units Growth Rate Poised to Grow at a CAGR of 37.6% Largest Market Asia Pacific Market Size Available for 2018-2035 Forecast Period 2022-2035 Forecast Units Volume (Thousand Units) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered Vehicle Type, Propulsion, and Region Geographies Covered Asia Pacific, Europe, and North America Key Market Opportunities Lower environmental degradation Key Market Drivers Lower emissions

"Buses are expected to be the largest commercial vehicle type during the forecast period."

The hydrogen fueled Bus segment is expected to have a significant demand during the forecast period, especially in European countries, Japan, and China. These countries plan to convert their public transport bus fleets to zero-emission vehicles. This offers a significant opportunity for the growth of the automotive fuel cell bus market. For instance, in September 2019, a Chinese bus manufacturer, Golden Dragon, received an order for 100 hydrogen fuel cell buses worth USD 21 million from Jiashan county, Zhejiang province. These buses were expected to be delivered in 2020. In the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic games, Geely was appointed as the transport provider. It deployed 80 units of the C12F hydrogen fuel cell buses to meet the requirement. European countries such as Denmark, France, Germany, Netherlands, and the UK have ordered fuel-cell buses to replace the current ICE bus fleets in their public transport systems. In addition, projects such as H2BusEurope, 3EMOTION, Clean Hydrogen in European Cities (CHIC), and Cogeneration of Hydrogen and Power (CH2P) are expected to propel the growth of the fuel cell electric bus market in the region. For instance, H2BusEurope plans to deploy 600 fuel cell buses, and 200 of these are expected to be delivered to Denmark by 2023. Various industry experts state that Europe is ready to deploy fuel-cell vehicles. Ballard Power Systems also announced that a quarter of the key cities in Europe are expected to deploy fuel-cell buses by 2025.

"FCEV segment will be the largest market by propulsion type during the forecast period."

During the forecast period, the FCEV segment is expected to lead the market during the forecast period. Most hydrogen fueled vehicles being launched over the years are FCEVs. This includes Beseselling FCEV Passenger Cars such as Toyota Mirai, Hyundai NEXO. Similarly, in the Van segment, most H2 fueled vehicles such as Citroen e-Jumpy, Peugeot-e Hydrogen, Opel Vivaro-e Hydrogen are FCEVs. Further, amongst buses and trucks, hydrogen fuelled vehicles such as Hyundai Elec City FCEB, Wrightbus Hydroliner FCEV, Hyzon Hymax, Hyundai XCIENT are also FCEVs. Market for FCHEVs and H2-ICE Vehicles are currently very Nische, and demand is expected to grow moderately during the forecast period.

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"Asia Pacific to lead the market during forecast period"

The Asia Pacific region anticipates substantial growth in the hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, driven by proactive policies from key nations. This includes plans for developing green hydrogen and setup of hydrogen refuelling stations across the region. China currently leads the global market for hydrogen fueled Buses and Trucks with its setup of CV only hydrogen refuelling stations across key cities. Similarly, India has also announced plans for increasing green hydrogen capacity to provide for the future demand. Ashok Leyland and Tata Motors have announced plans for making H2-ICE vehicles in the future. Further, Japan plans to have around 800,000 FCEVs on roads by 2030. Similarly, South Korea has also announced plans for 6.2 million FCEVs on road by 2040. Such factors are expected to lead to the continued dominance of hydrogen fueled vehicles in the Asia Pacific region.

Key Players

The Future of Hydrogen in Automotive is expected to be led by established players such as Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan), Hyundai Motor Company (South Korea), Honda Motors (Japan), BMW Group (Germany), Stellantis (Netherlands) among others.

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Recent Developments

In February 2023, GM and Honda announced the joint development of FCEV powertrains for their upcoming models

In September 2022, Hyundai and IVECO Group showcased their new eDaily FCEV

In August 2022, Toyota and BMW Group announced a partnership to develop FCEVs

In July 2022, Toyota launched H2 Trucks developed in partnership with Isuzu and Hino Motors

In July 2021, Volvo and Daimler Trucks announced plans to develop H2 fuel cell for long-haul heavy trucks

Browse Adjacent Markets: Energy and Power Market Research Reports & Consulting

Related Reports:

Hydrogen Market by Sector (Generation Type (Gray, Blue, Green), Storage (Physical, Material), Transportation (Long, Short)), Application (Energy (Power, CHP), Mobility, Chemical & Refinery (Refinery, Ammonia, Methanol)), Region - Global Forecast to 2030

Hydrogen Generation Market by Technology (SMR, ATR, POX, Coal Gasification, Electrolysis), Application (Refinery, Ammonia, Methanol, Transportation, Power Generation), Source (Blue, Green, Gray), Generation Mode Region - Global Forecast to 2028

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The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing.

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Digital transformation specialist will help millions of savers across the UK

Regulatory News:

Sopra Steria (Paris:SOP), the purpose-led digital transformation provider, has been awarded two major contracts, with a combined value of 369m, by National Savings and Investments (NS&I), the UK's government-owned savings bank best known for Premium Bonds.

Sopra Steria will manage tens of millions of customer contacts each year, and a savings book of more than 220bn, helping millions of savers across the country.

The transformation specialist will manage NS&I's frontline contact centre to assist customers with digital self-service interactions. Within this, the organisation will provide improved options for those in vulnerable or digitally excluded situations to ensure all customers have appropriate and inclusive access to NS&I services.

Service transition, which begins in spring 2024, will see Sopra Steria responsible for helping deliver vital government schemes through NS&I's Business-to-Business operation, including Childcare Services, Help to Buy ISAs, Help to Save, the Mortgage Guarantee Scheme, and the Court Funds Office.

John Neilson, CEO Sopra Steria UK, said:

"These contract wins solidify our position in the financial services market in the UK and reflect our significant investment in the sector. We're ideally placed to create an exceptional customer experience for NS&I's savers, having delivered many similar contracts, at scale, in both the private and public sectors.

"Our skilled and experienced teams have worked hard to create a solution that ensures inclusivity and accessibility for all NS&I's customers. We're looking forward to delivering the transformational change NS&I needs."

Matthew Smith, NS&I Chief Operating Officer, said:

"We've played a role in our savers' lives for over 160 years and in that time we've evolved as customer expectations have changed and the industry has modernised. So I am delighted that after a competitive process, the awarding of these packages is another important milestone in our journey to becoming the UK's most trusted savings provider.

"Our transformation programme will significantly improve customers' experience of NS&I providing more flexibility and choice while also improving our efficiency."

Sopra Steria will also provide essential back-office services for NS&I, including managing the end-to-end internal banking service between NS&I and HM Treasury, HM Revenue and Customs, and the Ministry of Justice.

ENDS

About Sopra Steria

Sopra Steria, a European tech leader recognised for its consulting, digital services, and software development, helps its clients drive their digital transformation to obtain tangible and sustainable benefits. It provides end-to-end solutions to make large companies and organisations more competitive by combining in-depth knowledge of a wide range of business sectors and innovative technologies with a fully collaborative approach. Sopra Steria places people at the heart of everything it does and is committed to putting digital to work for its clients in order to build a positive future for all. With 50,000 employees in nearly 30 countries, the Group generated revenue of 5.1 billion in 2022.

The world is how we shape it.

Sopra Steria Group (SOP) is listed on Euronext Paris (Compartment A) ISIN: FR0000050809

For more information, please visit our website www.soprasteria.co.uk

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Press contacts

Agency: Charmaine Chan, Brands2Life, m: 07789 694355, e: charmaine.chan@brands2life.com

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MUMBAI, India, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- From the makers of Iris Blue and Iris Bay in Dubai, Ashwin Sheth Group (ASG), a renowned name in India's real estate sector, celebrated for its remarkable 37-year legacy, is poised to shine at the prestigious 'India Property Show', Dubai, hosted by Maxpo Exhibitions and CREDAI MCHI. This much-anticipated event is scheduled to take place on December 9th and 10th, 2023, at the luxurious Movenpick Grand Al Bustan in Dubai and the stall number is PS - 2, Mumbai Pavilion.

Ashwin Sheth Group has over 80+ diverse luxury projects worldwide and has garnered acclaim for crafting enduring architectural masterpieces. The Iconic landmarks Edmont Aurelia, Sheth Zuri, Sheth Montana, 72 West, Sheth Avalon, Sheth Avante, Sheth Cnergy, and Sheth Vasant Lawns will be showcased at the property show. These projects epitomize luxury and also establish new standards in sustainability, quality, and design excellence.

ASG's ability to create residential spaces that radiate elegance, comfort, and a strong sense of community is a result of its seamless integration of these essential elements. The group's success is attributed to its meticulous attention to detail, strategic planning, and innovative technological integration. ASG's core values center around an unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction, evident in each project that embodies the group's relentless pursuit of perfection.

Mr Bhavik Bhandari, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer (CSMO), Ashwin Sheth Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event, stating, "Participating in the India Property Show offers us a fantastic opportunity to engage with the Indian diaspora. The city of Mumbai stands as an enticing investment destination, and ASG, with its attractive payment options, extends a warm invitation to NRIs to explore the luxury real estate segment. This is a golden opportunity for overseas Indians to invest in India's vibrant real estate market, driven by the country's consistent economic growth and stability, advanced construction technologies and an array of new launches."

With an extensive footprint exceedingly approximately 35 million square feet, ASG continues to expand in burgeoning micro-markets, delivering substantial value to its stakeholders. Moreover, the brand has been honoured with numerous prestigious industry awards, including the titles of 'Most Preferred Brand of 2023' and 'Developer of the Year 2023'. The brand's esteemed project, Sheth Avalon, has clinched the 'Best Upcoming Residential Project' at the CIA World Construction and Infra Award and the 'Luxury Residential Development' award at the International Realty Awards, Asia 2023.

About Ashwin Sheth Group:

Ashwin Sheth Group, established in 1987, is a leading real estate developer in India and Dubai, known for its unique designs and contemporary thinking. With over 80+ luxury projects globally, including landmarks like Viviana Mall in Thane, Iris Bay in Dubai, BeauMonde in Prabhadevi and Montana in Mulund to a few, the group has partnered with leading consultants in creating value for its customers.

To learn more, visit: https://www.ashwinshethgroup.com/nri/

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Ashwin Sheth Group | India

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The Eagle Eye Group's First Chief AI Officer Will Help Retailers Improve Customer Connections and Execute Full-Scale, Multidimensional Personalisation at Scale

LONDON, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Untie Nots, part of the Eagle Eye Group and the leading SaaS business that develops highly personalised, profitable and gamified promotions at scale, has named Jean-Matthieu Schertzer as the company's Chief Artificial Intelligence (AI) Officer.

The first Chief AI Officer to be appointed within the Eagle Eye Group signals the company's commitment to integrating AI into its solutions and reflects the rapid adoption of AI across the retail sector. With Schertzer at the helm, Eagle Eye and Untie Nots will enable retailers and brands to create hyper-personalised omnichannel experiences and direct, one-to-one connections with their customers.

Schertzer, an alumnus of the Ecole Polytechnique, one of France's and Europe's most prestigious scientific schools, brings a rich background in applied mathematics. His varied professional journey has seen him take on multiple roles, including those of a research engineer, an R&D data scientist, and a data science consultant, each contributing to his extensive experience in the field. He now brings his deep expertise to spearhead the next generation of AI-powered customer marketing solutions that will allow retailers and brands to predict shopping behaviors and develop personalised promotions at a scale not seen before.

"Our decision to appoint a Chief AI Officer comes against a backdrop of retailers struggling to provide the personalised customer experiences that today's consumers demand," said Eagle Eye Group CEO Tim Mason. "We are using AI to augment the Eagle Eye nervous system, which enables the real-time matching and delivery of offers and communications to individual customers, with a 'brain' that can create personalised offers dynamically, on the fly. Even if you have 10 million customers, no two will receive the same offer or be engaged in the same way. Jean-Mattieu will help us bring this vision to life."

McKinsey's latest research underscores the transformative potential of predictive and generative AI, forecasting that both could contribute $22.1 trillion to the global economy. In parallel, the retail AI market is poised for explosive growth, with projections indicating an annual increase exceeding 30% from 2023 to 2032, highlighting the significant opportunity for businesses to harness AI for strategic advantage.

In response to these dynamic shifts, Eagle Eye and Untie Nots have intensified their focus on advanced AI solutions. Under the leadership of Schertzer, whose extensive expertise in the field is well-recognised, the Eagle Eye Group is strategically positioned to empower companies to maximise the potential of their customer data and execute personalised promotions and marketing at a scale previously unimaginable.

As Chief AI Officer, Schertzer will lead Untie Nots' overall AI strategy alongside the Eagle Eye Group's leadership team and support the design, development, and implementation of AI technologies for retailers and brands worldwide.

"We stand on the cusp of a generational opportunity with AI and its applications in retail, among other sectors," said Chief AI Officer Jean-Matthieu Schertzer. "I firmly believe that the brands that can implement AI-powered personalisation will come to dominate the future. Still, they need partners like Untie Nots and Eagle Eye that are committed to innovation and have the infrastructure and industry-specific background to execute it."

Although AI adoption rates are high, there's a vast blue-water area for retailers. Currently, 63% of retail organisations use AI to enhance customer interactions, but only 54% of retail marketers use AI for channel-specific personalisation.

"AI is already used within retail, but its true potential has yet to be harnessed," said Zyed Jamoussi, Co-Founder and President of Untie Nots. "We see a future where predictive AI not only identifies opportunities and anticipates customer behaviours but also provides real-time insight, enabling brands to give customers the recommendations and promotions they need when they need them. Jean-Matthieu is helping our company - and our industry - realise that future."

Mason added, "We are working to place Eagle Eye as the go-to SaaS platform for retail brands worldwide looking to take their personalisation capabilities and loyalty scheme ROIs to the next level in the months and years to come."

For more information about Eagle Eye or to schedule an interview with CEO Tim Mason or Chief AI Officer Jean-Matthieu Schertzer, please contact Vanessa Horwell?at? vhorwell@thinkinkpr.com .?

ABOUT EAGLE EYE

Eagle Eye is a leading SaaS technology company enabling retail, travel and hospitality brands to earn the loyalty of their end customers by powering their real-time, omnichannel and personalised consumer marketing activities. Eagle Eye AIR is a cloud-based platform that provides the world's most flexible and scalable loyalty and promotions capability. More than 750 million personalised offers are executed via the platform every week, and it currently hosts over 100 million individual loyalty members for businesses worldwide. We are trusted to deliver a secure service at hundreds of thousands of physical POS destinations worldwide, enabling the real-time issuance and redemption of promotional coupons, loyalty offers, gift cards, subscription benefits and more. The Eagle Eye AIR platform is currently powering loyalty and customer engagement solutions for enterprise businesses all over the world, including Asda, Tesco, Morrisons, Waitrose and John Lewis & Partners, JD Sports, Pret a Manger, Loblaws, Southeastern Grocers, Giant Eagle and the Woolworths Group. In January 2023, the Group acquired France-based Untie Nots, an AI-powered personalised promotions business, adding Carrefour, E. Leclerc, Auchan and other leading brands to its European customer base. Visit www.eagleeye.com for more information.

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GUANGZHOU, China, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- China Institute for Innovation & Development Strategy ("CIIDS"), in collaboration with CGTN, is set to host the Understanding China Keynote Speech at the 2023 Understanding China Conference, which took place in Guangzhou from December 1 to 3.

The Understanding China Keynote Speech event is an opportunity for speakers from various backgrounds to discuss themes such as mutual learning between civilizations, technological innovation, cultural exchanges, and green development. They also share their personal experiences of China's modernization, providing a multi-field and three-dimensional perspective.

Yves Leterme, former Belgian Prime Minister , emphasized the significance of strong China-EU relations for the world's future advancement, supporting an open and inclusive attitude with a continuous deepening of exchanges and a boost in mutual understanding.

, emphasized the significance of strong China-EU relations for the world's future advancement, supporting an open and inclusive attitude with a continuous deepening of exchanges and a boost in mutual understanding. Moon Chung-in, chairman of Sejong Institute in South Korea , noted a divide in South Korean attitudes towards China's rise. He advises China to foster relationships and enhance its global interactions to show the world its true nature.

, noted a divide in South Korean attitudes towards China's rise. He advises China to foster relationships and enhance its global interactions to show the world its true nature. Martin Jacques, senior fellow at the Department of Politics and International Studies at the University of Cambridge , assessed China's progression over the past 70 years, convincingly explained why the future "China" will still be China.

, assessed China's progression over the past 70 years, convincingly explained why the future "China" will still be China. Vikram Channa, vice president of Content at Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific , shared his insights from over two decades of filming documentaries in China.

, shared his insights from over two decades of filming documentaries in China. Drawing from his own experiences in Alibaba Cloud R&D, Wang Jian, academician at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, expressed his aspiration to utilize technology to bring young people together and shape a brighter future.

The Conference also ran a unique forum, Stories as Bridges: Teenagers and Understanding China, concurrently. Distinguished experts and scholars from China, the UK, the US, and Belarus, as well as international students in China, convened to discuss how teenagers can communicate effectively.

Hu Min, the forum's convener and the director of the China Story Research Institute of CIIDS, also the founder and CEO of New Channel International Education Group, introduced a three-pronged strategy for "understanding China" at the forum. This strategy aims to enhance the understanding of China among its citizens, particularly the youth, to provide the world with an authentic view of China, and to encourage global sharing of knowledge and understanding about China.

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/china-institute-and-cgtn-collaborate-for-keynote-speech-at-the-2023-understanding-china-conference-302007186.html
BOSTON, Dec. 06, 2023, the leading provider of innovation and intellectual property (IP) management technology today announced that global law firm Nixon Peabody has gone live on Anaqua's PATTSY WAVE platform, as part of a series of measures to further enhance the efficiency of the firm's growing IP practice.



Anchored in PATTSY WAVE's state-of-the-art SaaS docketing software, Nixon Peabody is using several of Anaqua's integrated solutions to manage clients' IP, including Anaqua's connectivity solution, Echo, for NetDocuments integration; patent search and analytics via AcclaimIP; AI-enhanced autonomous time capture using WiseTime; Rowan Patents for patent drafting; and Anaqua Services for patent and trademark renewals.

With more than 700 attorneys collaborating across offices in the U.S. and major European and Asian commercial centers, Nixon Peabody is one of the world's largest law firms. The firm has a prominent and expanding intellectual property practice.

About Anaqua

Anaqua, Inc. is a premium provider of integrated intellectual property, or on Anaqua's LinkedIn.

About Nixon Peabody LLP

Nixon Peabody LLP is recognized as a Global 100 law firm - one of the largest in the world. With more than 700 attorneys collaborating across major practice areas across the U.S. and in European and Asian commercial centers, the firm's size, diversity, and advanced technological resources enable it to offer comprehensive legal services to individuals and organizations of all sizes in local, state, national, and international matters. Nixon Peabody's clients range from Fortune 50 corporations to global banking and finance institutions, name-brand retailers, emerging entrepreneurs, and world-class research institutions.

Company Contact:

Nancy Hegarty

VP, Marketing

Anaqua

617-375-2655

nhegarty@anaqua.com


EQS Newswire / 06/12/2023 / 09:20 CET/CEST

OPPO will bring the OPPO X AMBUSH FLIPPED PADLOCK to consumers this festive season with a series of creative pop-up events across Asia-Pacific SHENZHEN, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 5 December 2023 - OPPO, a leading smart device brand, announced a new collaboration with fashion house AMBUSH. The collaboration centers on a unique, stylish Flipped Padlock smartphone case designed exclusively for the OPPO Find N3 Flip by AMBUSH Creative Director, YOON. As OPPO's latest collaboration in the world of fashion, the new campaign extends OPPO's commitment to exploring the frontiers of fashion through its compact yet powerful Find N Flip series phones.



Through the collaboration, OPPO and AMBUSH seek to reimagine the intersection of style and functionality with the new OPPO X AMBUSH FLIPPED PADLOCK, inspired by the Heart Padlock Bag designed by YOON. Perfectly embodying OPPO's brand mission, "Inspiration Ahead," the Flipped Padlock stays true to YOON's signature heart-shaped design, enveloping the compact OPPO Find N3 Flip in a trendy, eye-catching pink shade for a chic look.



The OPPO X AMBUSH collaboration goes beyond what meets the eye. The two brands have intertwined their unique styles to present a dynamic fusion of cutting-edge technology and pioneering fashion that resonates with today's tech-savvy style icons. By bringing together the powerful yet compact OPPO Find N3 Flip with YOON and AMBUSH's forward-looking designs, the partnership showcases how technology and fashion can be flawlessly blended.



"I've been a sci-fi fan since I was a kid, and technology development has always inspired my designs. The return of the Flip phone trend has brought me back to the late 1990s, a pivotal time in fashion, when futuristic styles were on the rise, and people started using style as a status symbol. This collaboration explores how the smartphone, our most-used technology product, can become an extension of who we are. With the Flipped Padlock and Flip phone, you can be anyone you want to be, which is exactly what AMBUSH has always stood for," said YOON, Creative Director of AMBUSH.



Like AMBUSH, the OPPO Find N3 Flip fuses vintage and modern inspiration with its retro flip design and cutting-edge technology. In its design of the Flipped Padlock, AMBUSH has taken cues from the sleek body and powerful performance of the Find N3 Flip to create a one-of-a-kind accessory that collides Y2K style with contemporary trends.



AMBUSH's imprint on the Flipped Padlock stands out instantly, thanks to its heart shape and metal padlock handle. Like these contrasting elements, the Flipped Padlock allows the wearer to flip the script on any situation too. No matter the circumstances, a flip is all that's needed to unlock a boundless world.



The OPPO X AMBUSH FLIPPED PADLOCK case for the OPPO Find N3 Flip is set to debut in December in China, Thailand, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines. To learn more about the OPPO X AMBUSH FLIPPED PADLOCK and availability, please visit the official campaign website .





Hashtag: OPPO

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About OPPO OPPO is a leading global smart device brand. Since the launch of its first mobile phone - "Smiley Face" - in 2008, OPPO has been in relentless pursuit of the perfect synergy of aesthetic satisfaction and innovative technology. Today, OPPO provides a wide range of smart devices spearheaded by the Find and Reno series. Beyond devices, OPPO also provides its users with ColorOS operating system and internet services such as OPPO Cloud and OPPO+. OPPO has footprints in more than 60 countries and regions, with more than 40,000 employees dedicated to creating a better life for customers around the world.

About AMBUSH AMBUSH was founded in 2008 by YOON and VERBAL as an experimental line of jewelry - innovative pop art-inspired designs capturing a distinct Tokyo aesthetic. The iconic trademarked POW! motif received wide media coverage around the world. With apparel created as a canvas to complete the aesthetic YOON envisioned, AMBUSH evolved into unisex ready-to-wear collections.



The brand made its Paris debut in 2015 with YOON and VERBAL listed as two of Business of Fashion's Top500 people influencing the global fashion industry for 4 consecutive years since 2015. In 2017 AMBUSH was selected as one of the top 8 finalists for the LVMH PRIZE. AMBUSH's uniquely crafted parts form an idiosyncratic style that led to commissions and collaborations with an illustrious list, including Nike, Converse, Rimowa, Moet & Chandon, Gentle Monster, Bvlgari, Sacai, UNDERCOVER and others.



In 2018, AMBUSH debuted at Amazon Fashion Week Tokyo. In the same year, Kim Jones named YOON as Jewelry Director for Dior Men, with the first creations for the house appearing in the S/S 2019 collection in Paris. In 2022, AMBUSH presented the brand's first runway at Milan Fashion Week and began experimenting with Web3 and other technologies to enhance the customer experience. AMBUSH opened its first Tokyo flagship store in September 2016; the second store in Tokyo opened in 2019. The brand expanded globally in 2022 and 2023 with new stores in Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Ginza. These spaces encapsulate the brand's ethos and extend the AMBUSH Universe.



News Source: Media OutReach

06/12/2023 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



Media archive at www.todayir.com


BERLIN, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ariceum Therapeutics, a private biotech company developing radiopharmaceutical products for the diagnosis and treatment of certain hard-to-treat cancers, is pleased to announce the granting of US and Canadian patents covering its Gallium-68 (Ga-68) radiopharmaceutical production kit. The IP was developed by Theragnostics Ltd, which was acquired by Ariceum earlier this year.

The patents have been sub-licensed exclusively to Advance Accelerator Applications (AAA) and apply to the technology underpinning AAA's Ga-68 HBED-PSMA-11 production kit, branded Locametz. To date, the production of Ga-68 radiopharmaceuticals has involved a multi-step approach, which limits the number of patient doses that can be produced at any one time. Theragnostics' Ga-68 technology platform enables the production of multiple doses of Ga-68 HBED-PSMA-11 in a single vial, in one simple step.

Manfred Rudiger, Chief Executive Officer of Ariceum Therapeutics said: "We are pleased that this IP has been granted so soon after our recent acquisition of Theragnostics, highlighting our progress and commitment to developing a pipeline of targeted radiotherapy innovations. We are proud to be contributing with this IP to the success of PSMA diagnostics, specifically Locametz, which represents an alternative pathway for PMSA PET imaging of patients."

Greg Mullen, Chief Operating Officer of Ariceum Therapeutics and co-inventor of the patent, added: "This technology simplifies the production of Ga-68 PSMA for the benefit of thousands of patients around the world, which is incredibly rewarding to see. The granting of these patents represents another important milestone towards meeting anticipated increased demand for PSMA PET imaging of patients, following the publication of recent positive data demonstrating the benefit of radioligand therapy in prostate cancer."

The announcement of the new patents comes prior to Dr Greg Mullen, Chief Operating Officer of Ariceum Therapeutics, and Dr Germo Gericke, Chief Medical Officer of Ariceum, presenting at the upcoming 5th Targeted Radiopharmaceuticals Summit Europe, being held in Berlin, Germany, from Dec 5-7. Presentation details below.

Presentation Title: Understanding radionuclide Auger therapy to examine its use and advantages

Speaker: Dr Greg Mullen, Chief Operating Officer of Ariceum Therapeutics

Date & Time: 7 December, 1.30pm CET

Presentation Title: Bench to bedside - How to design innovative radiopharmaceuticals for human use

Speaker: Dr Germo Gericke, Chief Medical Officer of Ariceum Therapeutics

Date & Time: 7 December, 4.00pm CET

About Ariceum Therapeutics

Ariceum Therapeutics (Ariceum) is a private, clinical stage radiopharmaceutical company focused on the diagnosis and precision treatment of certain neuroendocrine and other aggressive, hard-to-treat cancers. The name Ariceum is an anagram of 'Marie Curie' whose discovery of radium and polonium have been huge contributions to finding treatments for cancer.

Ariceum's lead targeted systemic radiopharmaceutical product, 177Lu-satoreotide tetraxetan ("satoreotide"), is an antagonist of the somatostatin type 2 (SSTR2) receptor which is overexpressed in neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) and some aggressive cancers such as small cell lung cancer (SCLC), or Merkel Cell Carcinoma, all of which have few treatment options and poor prognosis. Satoreotide is being developed as a 'theranostic' pair for the combined diagnosis and targeted radionuclide treatment of these tumours. Ariceum is also developing a radiolabelled PARP-inhibitor (ATT-001), which is slated to enter the clinic in early 2024. ATT-001 was part of the acquisition of Theragnostics Ltd which was closed earlier in 2023.

Ariceum Therapeutics, launched in 2021, acquired all rights from Ipsen. Ipsen remains a shareholder in the Company. Ariceum is headquartered in Berlin, with operations in Germany, Australia, United Kingdom, United States of America and Switzerland and activities currently across the globe.

Ariceum is led by a highly experienced management team and supported by specialist investors including EQT Life Sciences (formerly LSP), HealthCap, Pureos Bioventures, Andera Partners and Earlybird Venture Capital. For further information, please visit www.ariceum-therapeutics.com.

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Premium vector technology will improve the production of high-yielding mammalian cell lines

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Abzena, the leading end-to-end bioconjugate and complex biologics CDMO has announced a partnership with ProteoNic Biosciences BV, to license their premium protein expression technology, 2G UNic. This state-of-the-art vector technology will significantly improve the production of high-yielding CHO cell lines for Abzena's customers.

For the past 20 years, Abzena has built a strong reputation for producing high-yielding mammalian cell lines for protein targets. By applying the 2G UNic vector technology to their existing CHO platform, Abzena will not only increase product development efficiency and capacity but also reduce the cost of goods for customers in early-stage development.

The 2G UNic technology uses the combined effect of novel genetic elements to exert a positive effect on recombinant protein production levels and boosts the performance of other expression-enhancing technologies. This novel technology also increases production levels of difficult-to-produce complex protein, including bispecifics and fusion proteins as well as levels of products already in the multiple g/L range.

Matt Stober, CEO of Abzena said: "Abzena's mission is to move new medicines forward to patients faster and we've been investing in our capabilities and forming partnerships to support that. By partnering with ProteoNic, we further enhance our existing offering by providing customers with a premium solution that increases the production levels for even the most challenging and complex proteins. We will continue to actively increase our cell line toolkit to provide more integrated solutions that help improve and streamline our customers' development programs."

Frank Pieper, CEO of ProteoNic commented: "We are pleased that we can contribute to achieving the best results for Abzena and its customers. In this arrangement, Abzena will play an active role in the distribution of our premium technology to product developers."

Under the agreement, Abzena gains worldwide, non-exclusive commercial rights for the application of ProteoNic's 2G UNic premium vector technology in the development of high-yielding CHO cell lines. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

About Abzena

Abzena is the leading end-to-end bioconjugate and complex biologics CDMO + CRO. From discovery through commercial launch, we support customers with fully integrated programs or individual services designed to de-risk and streamline the development of new treatments for patients in need. With the ability to tailor its strategy and customer experience to each project, Abzena develops and implements innovative solutions that enable biotech and biopharma companies to realize the full potential of their molecule and move medicines forward faster. The company has research, development, and cGMP facilities across locations in San Diego, CA, Bristol, PA, and Cambridge, UK. Abzena is owned by Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe, one of the world's leading private equity investors. Learn more at abzena.com.

For more information on Abzena, please contact:

Imogen Quail

PR Manager

ramarketing

imogen.quail@ramarketingpr.com

About ProteoNic

ProteoNic is a privately held company with offices in Leiden, the Netherlands and in the Boston area, USA. The company offers technology and services for the generation of cell lines and viral vectors with greatly improved production characteristics. The company commercializes its proprietary 2G UNic technology through licensing and partnership arrangements. For more information, see proteonic.nl.

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Swedish thin-film solar manufacturer Midsummer inked a deal with the European Union Innovation Fund grant to receive 32.3 million ($34.8 million) to pay for half of the company's new copper indium gallium selenide solar module production facility to be built in Sweden.The European Commission announced in July that Midsummer's project DAWN - a 200 MW-per annum plant producing lightweight and flexible CIGS, thin-film solar cells and panels - was selected among 41 projects for the European Union Innovation Fund. Midsummer announced on Monday the company successfully signed a grant funding deal ...

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.
FII PRIORITY Hong Kong Summit, held in partnership with the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) and HKEX, will convene business and finance leaders from around the world

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- HE Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute, will introduce the inaugural Asia FII PRIORITY Summit in Hong Kong next week.

Welcoming the FII Institute to Hong Kong will be John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Paul Chan, Financial Secretary; Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury; and Laura Cha, Chairman of HKEX. John Lee will deliver a special address to delegates.

The FII Institute is a global data-driven non-profit foundation with an investment arm and one agenda: to make a positive 'impact on humanity'. The institute's PRIORITY programme spans summits, initiatives and reports supported by its members and strategic partners, with the aim of tackling the world's most pressing challenges.

HE Yasir Al-Rumayyan will be joined by HRH Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud, Saudi Arabia's ambassador to the United States, and HE Khalid A. Al-Falih, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Investment.

Kicking off the two-day global summit will be a 'Board of Changemakers', the set piece of the event at HKEX Connect Hall starting on December 7th. HKEX Chairman Laura Cha, Hang Lung Capital's founder Ronnie Chan, Chairman of Schneider Electric Jean-Pascale Tricoire, Founder and Chairman of ACWA Power Mohammad A Abunayyan, President of the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Tony Chan, Richard Li Chairman of Pacific Century Group, and Kevin Sneader, President, Asia Pacific, Goldman Sachs will discuss global economic and strategic issues during the board's 45-minute session.

Other speakers at the summit will include Hopu Capital's chairman Fang Fenglei, GGV Capital Asia Managing Partner Jixun Foo, and co-chairman and co-chief investment officer of Hong Kong-listed Value Partners Group Cheah Cheng Hye, Lawrence Moloney, Lead AI Advocate, Google, Patrick Motseppe, Executive Chairman, Africa Rainbow Minerals, and Joshua Fink, founder Luma Group.

Over 1,000 business and finance leaders are expected to attend the summit.

Richard Attias, chief executive of the FII Institute: "Hong Kong has a hugely important role as a global business hub and a place for investors to connect. With our partners, the Hong Kong Government Special Administrative Region and HKEX, we are honoured to bring our inaugural Asia summit and movement to this great city. Our purpose at FII Institute is to tackle some of humanity's biggest challenges, such as economic growth, prosperity, and financing the energy transition by convening leaders for top-level constructive dialogue. Our deliberations over the 7th and 8th of December will be focused sharply on important global issues, and we look forward to working with our friends and colleagues from across Asia for a better future for all."

The summit will continue conversations at FII7 in Riyadh this past October under the theme 'The New Compass', seeking workable solutions to unlocking ESG flows to the Global South, driving global alignment on AI regulation, and investment for more equitable access to education and healthcare.

Other topics to be discussed at the FII PRIORITY Summit in Hong Kong include how innovators can act to resolve citizen concerns at a global level, the role of the Global South in driving economic growth, the new Asia, the 'hyper-tech century', AI and Web4 improving life for all, where next for BRICS, human-centred macro-finance, Asia supply chains, COP28 and climate tech.

About FII Institute

The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is a global non-profit 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/2294189/FII.jpg

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TOKYO (dpa-AFX) - The Pentagon has announced that all eight airmen who were on board a U.S. military plane have died in crash off the coast of Japan last week.



A CV-22 Osprey was on a routine training mission on November 29 when it crashed into waters off the coast of Yakushima Island in southern Kagoshima prefecture, according to the U.S. Air Force.



Pentagon Press Secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said the bodies of three airmen have been recovered. The remains of three others have been located and are in the process of being recovered.



'The recovery operation will now focus on locating and recovering the remaining two airmen and aircraft debris,' he said at a news conference.



A Pentagon press release explained that a change in mission from rescue to recovery happens when it's determined that it is unlikely there are any survivors.



The deceased airmen are Maj. Jeffrey T. Hoernemann, 32, of Andover, Minnesota, who was a CV-22 Osprey instructor pilot and officer in charge of training; Maj. Eric V. Spendlove, 36, of St. George, Utah, who was a residency trained flight surgeon and medical operations flight commander; Maj. Luke A. Unrath, 34, of Riverside, California, who was a CV-22 pilot and flight commander; Capt. Terrell K. Brayman, 32, of Pittsford, New York, who was a CV-22 pilot and flight commander; Tech. Sgt. Zachary E. Lavoy, 33, of Oviedo, Florida, who was a medical operations flight chief; Staff Sgt. Jake M. Turnage, 25, of Kennesaw, Georgia, who was a flight engineer; Staff Sgt. Jacob M. Galliher, 24, of Pittsfield, Massachusetts, who was a direct support operator; and Senior Airman Brian K. Johnson, 32, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, who was a flight engineer.



Six of them were assigned to the Yokota Air Base, while two others were assigned to the Kadena Air Base, both U.S. air bases in Japan.



Ryder said all families of these airmen have now been notified.



Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin said the Defense Department continues to gather information on this incident, and will conduct a rigorous and thorough investigation.



President Joe Biden said he and his wife Jill were heartbroken to learn of the loss of eight American service members.



In the wake of the U.S. military plane crash, the Japanese government urged the Pentagon to ground the operations of its Osprey hybrid planes in the country.



The CV-22 Osprey is a multi-mission, tiltrotor military aircraft with both vertical takeoff and landing and short takeoff and landing capabilities. It is designed to combine the functionality of a conventional helicopter with the long-range, high-speed cruise performance of a turboprop aircraft.



Years ago, Okinawa residents had voiced concerns about the safety of Osprey planes.



The U.S. military's other aircraft in this series have been involved in accidents previously, some of which were fatal.



This is the first fatal accident involving Osprey in Japan.



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Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX
TOKYO, Dec 6, 2023 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi High-Tech Corporation announced today the launch of the Hitachi Dark Field Wafer Defect Inspection System DI4600 - a new tool for inspecting particles and defects on patterned wafer in semiconductor production lines.DI4600 offers improved detection capabilities due to the addition of a dedicated server that offers significantly enhanced data processing power required for the detection of particles and defects. Compared to the previous model, system's throughput has also been improved by approximately 20% through reduced wafer transfer time and improved operations during wafer inspection.DI4600 will enable highly accurate defect monitoring in semiconductor production lines, which will contribute to the improved yields and better cost of ownership as the semiconductor production volumes will continue to expand going forward.Development BackgroundIn current social environment, memory semiconductor devices, such as DRAM and FLASH, logic semiconductors, such as MPU and GPU are being used not only in smartphones, laptops, and PCs, but also for generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) computing and autonomous driving. As semiconductor devices shrinkage and complexity progresses, the requirements for manufacturing processes cleanness and inspection capabilities also become more rigorous. Semiconductor manufacturers are constantly striving to improve their competitiveness, particularly when it comes to performance and manufacturing costs. Patterned wafer inspection tools contribute to yield management by inspecting the surfaces of production wafers for particles and defects, allowing engineers to monitor changes and trends of cleanness of semiconductor processing tools, and therefore, have a great impact on semiconductor devices' performance and manufacturing costsKey Technologies1. High ThroughputThroughput has been improved by approximately 20% compared to the existing model by reducing wafer transfer time, improving operations during wafer inspection and optimizing data-processing sequence.2. High-Precision DetectionDetection precision has been improved due to the addition of a dedicated server that offers significantly enhanced data processing capabilities required for the detection of particles and defects.By offering DI4600, as well as our un-patterned wafer optical inspection systems and electron beam-based products such as a CD-SEM*1 and DR-SEM*2, Hitachi High-Tech is working to meet customers' various needs in processing, measurement, and inspection throughout the semiconductor manufacturing process. We will continue to provide innovative and enhanced solutions to our products for the upcoming technology challenges, and create new value together with our customers, as well as contributing to cutting-edge manufacturing.(1) CD-SEM (Critical Dimension-Scanning Electron Microscope): An equipment designed to perform high-precision measurement of the dimensions of fine semiconductor circuit patterns formed on wafers.(2) DR-SEM (Defect Review-Scanning Electron Microscope): An equipment designed to perform high-quality imaging of the defects on fine semiconductor circuit patterns formed on wafers.About Hitachi High-Tech CorporationHitachi High-Tech Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is active in a broad range of fields, including manufacturing and sales of clinical analyzers, biotechnology products, analytical instruments, semiconductor manufacturing and analysis equipment. and provides high value-added solutions in fields of social and industrial infrastructure, mobility, etc.The company's consolidated revenues for FY 2022 were approx. JPY 674.2 billion. For further information, visit https://www.hitachi-hightech.com/global/en/Contact:Naoyuki ShindomoBusiness Planning Dept., Metrology Systems Div.Nano-Technology Solution Business GroupHitachi High-Tech CorporationTel: +81-833-41-8704E-mail: naoyuki.shindomo.dh@hitachi-hightech.comSource: Hitachi, Ltd.Copyright 2023 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved.
LONDON, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Perkbox, the largest independent UK perks and benefits provider, has appointed Doug Butler as CEO. With extensive financial and operational expertise, Butler will be charged with driving continued global growth, overseeing product innovation and ensuring continued customer success by helping businesses provide meaningful support to their employees.

Butler brings over 30 years of leadership experience to the position, having run businesses across the technology, telecommunications and the employment engagement sectors. Most recently, Butler served as CEO of Reward Gateway for over five years shepherding the company through significant growth prior to its acquisition by the French benefits provider Edenred. Prior to this, Butler co-founded and served as both CFO and President of Colocation Services - for infrastructure-as-a-service provider, Latisys - which was acquired in 2015 by Zayo Group.

In his role at Perkbox, Butler will focus on expanding the business and supporting clients with their HR and people challenges. The company advances its mission to connect and align businesses' people with their purpose through a market leading employee perks and benefits platform. Maximising global employee discounts for cost of living relief, while providing cultural enhancing recognition and reward technology solutions, will continue to be priorities for Butler and Perkbox.

Doug Butler, Chief Executive Officer commented:

"I am excited to continue my own employee engagement journey with Perkbox, a company I have long admired for its technical solutions, passion and creativity. Thousands of organisations rely on Perkbox to support their people globally with enhanced employee value propositions plus recognition and reward led culture initiatives, and I look forward to leading and contributing to this mission driven business."

Saurav Chopra, Co-founder & Executive Chairman commented:

"I am thrilled to welcome Doug to the Perkbox team. His formidable operational expertise and leadership, paired with a steadfast commitment to nurturing people-first and inclusive cultures, is exactly what Perkbox needs to amplify its mission. As we navigate cost-of-living challenges, Doug's vision will be instrumental in supporting more organisations and their employees. I am excited for the innovation and growth he will bring to our users and the Perkbox team."

About Perkbox?

Perkbox is the global rewards and benefits platform that allows companies to care for, connect with and celebrate their employees, no matter where they are and what they want. With over 10 years' experience, Perkbox is trusted by thousands of companies with users across the globe. Its location agnostic globally available platform helps companies with diverse and dispersed workforces harmonise their Employee Value Proposition (EVP) - keeping each employee happy, healthy, and motivated.

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1596310/3690203/Perkbox_Logo.jpg

Media Contact:

Ellie Carsley

Brands2Life for Perkbox

Tel: +44 207 592 1200

Perkbox@brands2life.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/perkbox-announces-new-ceo-as-it-supercharges-its-response-to-the-cost-of-living-crisis-302007389.html
DUBAI, UAE, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Talent & Green Summit was held yesterday at the University of Dubai during the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 28). The Summit brought together 36 participants in Huawei's Seeds for the Future 2.0 talent program from 22 countries. Scholars from international organizations, professors from the University of Dubai, and experts from Huawei also attended the event to explore why digital skills are essential in addressing sustainable development challenges related to sustainable development.

Dr. Eesa Mohammed Al Al Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai, also addressed the audience. "Since it was founded, the University of Dubai has been committed to providing students with high-quality and international education, as well as training in technical and practical skills," he said. "We encourage students to pursue innovation and creativity to get fully prepared for future jobs and challenges. We are also proud to work with Huawei to cultivate ICT talent, improve their awareness of sustainable development, and help them fulfill the responsibility they have to shape a greener future."

Speaking at the Summit, Vicky Zhang, Vice President of Huawei's Corporate Communications Dept, said: "Addressing climate change should be one of our top priorities. The UN Climate Change Conference provides a great platform that brings together the world's top minds to explore ideas and actions that make sense in the real world. Younger generations will be the ones to achieve sustainable development in the future. Huawei will continue providing necessary digital literacy training for young talent to help them leash their creativity and passion. By leveraging the huge potential of ICT, they can solve real-world problems and overcome any challenges that they may face."

At the event, Dr. Phoebe Koundouri, Professor at the Athens University of Economics and Business, Professor at the Technical University of Denmark, President of the European Association of Environmental and Resource Economists, Chair of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Global Climate Hub, and Co-Chair of SDSN Europe, shared her views from the Twin Skills for the Twin Transition: Defining Green Digital Skills and Jobs white paper that she recently published with Huawei. She said: "Developing green and digital skills can effectively promote climate neutrality and employment recovery. Green skills focus on energy and the environment, while digital skills are closely related to ICT. Together, green and digital skills will facilitate the transition to sustainable economic development, and help us address more global environmental and climate challenges."

About Huawei

Founded in 1987, Huawei is a leading global provider of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure and smart devices. We have more than 207,000 employees, and we operate in more than 170 countries and regions, serving more than three billion people around the world.

Our Vision and mission is to bring digital to every person, home and organization for a fully connected, intelligent world. To this end, we will drive ubiquitous connectivity and promote equal access to networks; bring cloud and artificial intelligence to all four corners of the earth to provide superior computing power where you need it, when you need it; build digital platforms to help all industries and organizations become more agile, efficient, and dynamic; redefine user experience with AI, making it more personalized for people in all aspects of their life, whether they're at home, in the office, or on the go.

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EQS Post-admission Duties announcement: Adtran Holdings, Inc. / Third country release according to Article 50 Para. 1, No. 2 of the WpHG [the German Securities Trading Act] Adtran Holdings, Inc.: Release according to Article 50 of the WpHG [the German Securities Trading Act] with the objective of Europe-wide distribution 06.12.2023 / 12:21 CET/CEST Dissemination of a Post-admission Duties announcement according to Article 50 Para. 1, No. 2 WpHG transmitted by EQS News - a service of EQS Group AG. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

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.
Italian manufacturer Thermocold is offering new heat pumps with output ranging from 8 kW to 30 kW. They use propane as the refrigerant and reportedly have a seasonal coefficient of performance of up to 4.5.Italian heating specialist Thermocold has unveiled a new series of air-to-water heat pump series for applications in residential and industrial buildings. "Our new heat pumps operate down to -20 C of outdoor air, providing hot water of 75 C at 0 C of outdoor air temperature," a spokesperson from the company told pv magazine. "They are a good replacement for gas boilers in older light commercial ...

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.
WILMINGTON, Del., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and the need for home care settings will drive demand for infusion pumps.

The global industry was worth US$ 10.3 billion in 2022. A CAGR of 4.6% is projected from 2023 to 2031, reaching US$ 15.6 billion. Medical devices continue to develop and innovate to meet the increasing demand for home care, preventative measures, early diagnosis, and streamlined patient recovery times. Digitalization, augmented reality, 5G, and machine learning are becoming increasingly popular among companies.

Infusion pumps with remote monitoring are replacing traditional infusion pumps, which can be controlled wirelessly to control and monitor intravenous drips. Fluids can be administered with infusion pumps using very small volumes or at precisely programmed rates or intervals, offering several significant advantages over manual administration of fluids. These pumps can deliver hormones, antibiotics, chemotherapeutic drugs, and pain relievers to patients as needed, including insulin and other hormones.

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Advanced infusion pump technologies are in high demand due to the growing use of biologics and specialty drugs. Drugs of this type must usually be administered in a precise and controlled manner. Infusion pumps with barcode scanning, drug libraries and alarms will continue to be developed to improve patient safety through the detection of medication errors early on.

Infusion Pumps Market Report Scope:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2031 Base Year 2022 Size in 2022 US$ 10.3 Bn Forecast (Value) in 2031 US$ 15.6 Bn Growth Rate (CAGR) 4.6 No. of Pages 262 Pages Segments covered Product, Application, End-user

Key Findings of Market Report

Diabetes and a growing ageing population are expected to increase the demand for insulin pumps.

The diabetic management market is expected to have the largest share market in 2023.

The growing adoption of smart/portable infusion pumps is driving the growth of the European infusion pump market.

A recent industry forecast indicates North America will dominate the infusion pump market from 2023 to 2031.

Global Infusion Pumps Market: Growth Drivers

Portable devices that deliver medication or fluids to patients while they remain mobile are becoming more popular. Home healthcare is becoming more popular, and continuous medication administration is becoming more convenient. A growing number of chronic diseases are being diagnosed, such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Infusion pumps are increasingly addressing chronic conditions and health concerns associated with aging as the geriatric population grows.

A smart pump integrates both electronic medical records (EMRs) and advanced functionalities as technology advances. Due to these technological advances, medication delivery has become more accurate and safe, increasing the demand for infusion pumps. An infusion pump reduces the risk of medication errors by administering medication accurately and efficiently. Infusion pumps enable healthcare providers to deliver drugs with greater precision and safety by enabling more precise and safe delivery.

With the advancement of technology, infusion pumps have become more affordable, user-friendly, and portable. This advancement has increased the likelihood of infusion pumps being adopted by healthcare providers in emerging markets. Health facilities are expanding as hospitals, clinics, and home healthcare services expand in emerging markets. The expansion of healthcare creates a greater need for infusion pumps to support the delivery of medications and fluids in different care settings.

Global Infusion Pumps Market: Regional Landscape

North America is expected to drive demand for infusion pumps in the market. The rise in chronic diseases like diabetes and the growing need for ambulatory infusion pumps are contributing to this growth. With an aging population, chronic diseases and conditions often requiring infusion therapy are on the rise in the United States. Therefore, infusion pumps have become more popular for administering fluids and medications.

As cancer and cardiovascular diseases become more prevalent, the market for these pumps is increasing. Smart pumps with increased accuracy, connectivity features, and safety mechanisms are becoming more common as infusion pump technology advances.

The prevalence of home-based healthcare is increasing as patients receive treatment at home using infusion pumps. As a result, portable and user-friendly infusion pumps have become increasingly popular.

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Global Infusion Pumps Market: Key Players

New products are being developed by major infusion pump manufacturers to expand their product portfolios. Mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, joint ventures, and collaborations are also used to increase their global market share.

ICU Medical Inc.

Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc.

Medtronic plc

Terumo Corporation

F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG

Baxter International

BD

Fresenius Kabi AG

B. Braun SE

Insulet Corporation

Key Developments

In August 2023, a world leader in developing, manufacturing, and selling innovative medical devices, ICU Medical Inc., received regulatory clearance for 510(k) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the Plum Duo infusion pump with LifeShield infusion safety software. Customers in the United States can purchase Plum Duo pumps and LifeShield software in early 2024.

Mayo Clinic standardized drug library management processes across its U.S. enterprise, improving clinical practice workflows and drug library management. The University of Utah Health and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, both of which require heavy lifting at first but can reduce drug dosage errors, have also completed pump library standardization projects.

Global Infusion Pumps Market: Segmentation

By Product

Insulin Pumps

PCA Pumps

Enteral Pumps

Others

By Application

Diabetes Management

Pain Management

Chemotherapy

Others

By End User

Hospitals

Ambulatory Care Settings

Home Care Settings

Others

By Region

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East & Africa

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Cleanroom Technology Market- The sales of global cleanroom technology market in 2021 stood at US$ 4.4 Bn. The market analysis of cleanroom technology predicts the market to expand at 7.6% CAGR during the forecast period, from 2022 to 2032.

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Pacific Defense, a leading provider of Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) products and solutions, announced it has signed a $9.4M Phase II contract with the Space Control Technology Branch of AFRL to complete development of a low size, weight, and power (SWaP) sensor built on MOSA principles to address the rapidly expanding challenge of space situational awareness (SSA) in the cislunar regime. The "Moonraker" system builds upon Pacific Defense's expertise in MOSA system development, leveraging 3U software-defined radio (SDR) and graphics processing unit (GPU) technology and an open software framework comprised of company and industry-provided SSA applications. The Phase II effort will advance the work started in Phase I with the goal of producing flight-ready sensors.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206024393/en/

Pacific Defense Space Systems

"Moonraker presents a fresh approach to space payload design and support for this critical mission," said Bryan Terlecky, Vice President of Space Systems at Pacific Defense. "Pacific Defense will demonstrate how an open architecture approach accelerates development from concept to a flight deliverable sensor within 24 months."

"The AFRL Space Control team is excited to work with Pacific Defense to research, develop, and demonstrate these innovative and cost-effective sensing capabilities for cislunar space," said Brian Engberg, Chief, Space Control Technology Branch. "This capability will help us achieve a multi-layered ability that ensures cislunar space remains a safe and transparent operational environment."

The Phase II contract has a 39-month period of performance culminating in the delivery of a qualified sensor for on-orbit demonstration.

About Pacific Defense

Headquartered in El Segundo, California, Pacific Defense takes an organic, commercial-minded approach to developing military-use advanced solutions delivering EW, SIGINT, Comms, and C2 capabilities to US and International customers, with a particular focus on CMOSS solutions. Products are designed from the outset for modern, AI-driven autonomy with CMOSS and SOSA-aligned hardware and software. This includes state-of-the-art processing that can readily follow the evolution of commercial technology with complete data sharing across networks and platforms. See more information at www.pacific-defense.com and www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-defense.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206024393/en/

Contacts:

Kent Mader info@pacific-defense.com
Hole MC23-132 Intersects 363.0 g/t (10.59 opt) Au over 0.3m Within a Broader Interval of 121.8 g/t (3.55 opt) Au over 0.9m

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - Onyx Gold Corp. (TSXV: ONYX) (OTCQX: ONXGF) ("Onyx" or the "Company") is pleased to announce initial exploration results from its 2023 Fall drill program in the Timmins gold camp, Ontario. The first assay results have been returned for drill hole MC23-132, which tested a prospective area 350m (1,148 feet) northwest of the former Croesus Gold Mine. The Croesus Gold Mine is famous for yielding some of the highest-grade gold mined in Ontario.

The completed program included ~4,000 meters ("m") of diamond drilling with one drill rig and focused on targets proximal to the historic high-grade Croesus Gold Mine, and on the new bulk-tonnage-style Argus Zone discovered in 2022.

Highlight Assay Results for Drill Hole MC23-132 include:

121.8 grams per tonne ("g/t") (3.55 ounces per ton "opt") gold ("Au") over 0.9m (true width), including 363.0 g/t (10.59 opt) Au over 0.3m (true width)



The drill hole intersected a 30-centimeter-wide quartz vein containing abundant visible gold that returned 363 g/t (10.59 opt) Au over 0.3m, representing the single highest assay in the Company's drill hole database for the project. The high-grade vein occurs within a broader zone of mineralization averaging 121.8 g/t (3.55 opt) Au over 0.9m and was intersected approximately 60 m vertically below surface. This new vein discovery represents an entirely new high-grade quartz vein in a geological setting comparable to the mined-out, bonanza-grade Croesus vein.

"The intersection of multi-ounce gold grades within a completely new vein system parallel to the renowned Croesus Vein is a direct validation of the team's recent advancements in geological and structural modeling in the area," said Brock Colterjohn, President & CEO. "The historic Croesus Gold Mine produced some of the highest-grade gold ever mined in Ontario, with an average head grade of 95.3 g/t (2.78 opt) gold. This new vein underscores the opportunity for additional discoveries within an established high-grade gold environment. It is an excellent start to Onyx Gold's inaugural drill program in Ontario."

"The Timmins camp is one of the most prolific gold-producing regions in the world with multiple operating mines and excess milling capacity. Onyx Gold has established one of the largest land positions in the camp not owned by a producer. Much of this land package is in prime high-potential geology with little or no work completed for decades. Our land tenure represents particularly attractive opportunities for discoveries such as this. This new vein remains open in all directions, and we look forward to further expanding this high-grade discovery in a winter drill campaign. We are also looking forward to results from the rest of our fall program which will be reported in due course."

Discussion of Results

A total of five (5) holes (MC23-130 to MC23-134) totaling 872m were completed by the Company in late October/early November to follow-up north and south of drillhole MC22-92 drilled by the previous operator, HighGold Mining Inc., which intersected a narrow quartz vein that returned 14.0 g/t Au over 0.6 meters in a broader interval grading 3.4 g/t Au over 2.6m (See HighGold Mining Inc. press release from March 30, 2022). The area was targeted for its similar geological setting to the Croesus Gold Mine - specifically, the occurrence of a parallel vein to the Croesus Vein within a particular basalt flow unit that is locally brecciated and enriched in sulfides (the "Croesus Flow"). The Croesus Flow is interpreted to play an important role in the deposition of exceptionally high concentrations of gold within the Croesus Vein.

Results have been returned from hole MC23-132, a 25-meter step-out south of MC23-92, which intersected what is believed to be a new vein in a parallel orientation to the Croesus Vein within the upper portion of the Croesus Flow. The quartz vein was intersected from 83.0-83.3 meters downhole within sulfidic pillowed Croesus Flow and returned the highest-grade interval on the property to date of 363.0 g/t Au over 0.3m (true width) within a broader structural zone averaging 121.8 g/t Au over 0.9m (true width). The quartz vein is characterized by massive, white-grey quartz with abundant fine-grained aggregates of visible gold throughout and in and along the margins of pyrite grains. The quartz contains coarse, disseminated, and fracture-filling pyrite and trace, fine-grained sphalerite, and arsenopyrite as shown in Plate 1. The 363.0 g/t Au assay was obtained by gold gravimetric analysis (Au-GRA22) at the ALS Canada lab in North Vancouver. A gold screen analysis (Au-SCR21) was also performed and returned a total gold value of 342.0 g/t Au.

Between 1915 and 1936, the Croesus Mine, produced 14,854 ounces of gold mined from 5,333 tons with an average grade of 2.78 opt Au (95.3 g/t Au) as reported by the Ontario Department of Mines in 1951. Note - this production number did not include the ore that was mined and shipped in packing crates directly to the Royal Canadian Mint. Five (5) gold samples purchased by the Ontario Bureau of Mines for exhibition purposes and now in possession of the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, Ontario weigh 85 pounds collectively and contain 480.7 ounces of gold or 11,310 oz gold per ton (387,727 g/tonne). The Croesus Vein and the new vein are parallel northeast-striking, east-southeast-dipping shear veins that contain abundant visible gold where they intersect the permissive host lithology (Croesus Flow). This highlights the opportunity to discover additional parallel high-grade veins within the Croesus Flow.

Drill hole locations for the holes reported herein are shown in Figures 2 and 3. Assay results for the other four holes to test the target area are currently pending.

The Munro-Croesus Project

The Munro-Croesus Project is located along Highway 101 in the heart of the Abitibi greenstone belt, Canada's premier gold mining jurisdiction (Figure 1). This large, 100% owned land package includes the past-producing Croesus Gold Mine, which yielded some of the highest-grade gold ever mined in Ontario. Extensive land consolidation from 2020-2023 has unified the patchwork of patented and unpatented mining claims surrounding the Croesus Gold Mine into one coherent package (Figure 1) and enhanced the exploration potential of the Project.

The Project covers 70 km2 (27 mi2) of highly prospective geology within the influence of major gold-bearing structural breaks. Bulk-tonnage gold deposits located in the immediate region include the Fenn-Gib gold project being developed by Mayfair Gold Corp. that contains an Indicated Resource of 3.38 Moz at 0.93 g/t Au and an Inferred Resource of 157 koz at 0.85 g/t Au, and the Tower Gold Project being developed by Moneta Gold Inc. that contains an open pit Indicated Resource of 4.46 Moz at 0.92 g/t Au and an Inferred Resource of 8.29 Moz at 1.09 g/t Au1.





Figure 1 - Location of Munro-Croesus Gold Project, Ontario



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9800/189987_5808417534ddb99d_002full.jpg







Figure 2 - Plan Map of Croesus Mine Area Drill Holes



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https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9800/189987_5808417534ddb99d_003full.jpg







Figure 3 - Cross-section of New Vein Discovery in Drill Hole MC23-132



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https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9800/189987_5808417534ddb99d_004full.jpg







Plate 1 - Photo of Abundant Visible Gold in Drill Hole MC23-132



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https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9800/189987_5808417534ddb99d_005full.jpg

Q4-2023 Ontario Drill Program

The Company successfully completed its planned fall drill program on December 2nd with 4,078 meters drilled in 19 holes. Approximately half of the drilling budget was focused on expansion drilling at the Argus Zone located on the western side of the Property, with the remaining half of the drilling budget focused on follow-up holes at targets proximal to the historic high-grade Croesus Gold Mine. Assay results from the fall program are currently pending and will be released in due course.

About the Timmins Area Gold Properties

Onyx owns 100% of each of its three Timmins properties. The Munro-Croesus Gold Project is located approximately 75 kilometers (47 miles) east of Timmins, proximal to the Porcupine-Destor and Pipestone Faults, and approximately two kilometers (1.2 miles) northwest and along trend of Mayfair Gold Corp.'s multi-million ounce Fenn-Gib gold deposit. Mining occurred intermittently at Munro-Croesus between 1915 and 1936. The Golden Mile 140 square kilometer (54 square miles) property is located nine kilometers (5.6 miles) northeast of Newmont's multi-million-ounce Hoyle Pond deposit in Timmins. The Timmins South (Golden Perimeter) 187 square kilometers (72 square miles) property is located to the south and southeast of Timmins and surrounds the Shaw dome structure.

About Onyx Gold

Onyx Gold is an exploration company focused on well-established Canadian mining jurisdictions, with assets in Timmins, Ontario, and Yukon Territory. The Company's extensive portfolio of quality gold projects in the greater Timmins gold camp includes the Munro-Croesus Gold property, renowned for its high-grade mineralization, plus two additional earlier-stage large exploration properties, Golden Mile and Timmins South. Onyx Gold also controls four properties in the Selwyn Basin area of Yukon Territory, which is currently gaining significance due to recent discoveries in the area. Onyx Gold's experienced board and senior management team are committed to creating shareholder value through the discovery process, careful allocation of capital, and environmentally/socially responsible mineral exploration.

Qualified Person and Quality Assurance

Ian Cunningham-Dunlop, P.Eng., Executive Vice President for Onyx Gold 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.

On Behalf of Onyx Gold Corp.

"Brock Colterjohn"

President & CEO

For further information, please visit the Onyx Gold Corp. website at www.onyxgold.com or contact:

Brock Colterjohn, President & CEO

or

Nicole Hoeller, VP of Corporate Communications

Phone: 1-604-629-1165 or North American toll-free 1-855-629-1165

Email: nicole@onyxgold.com or information@onyxgold.com.

Website: www.onyxgold.com

Twitter: @OnyxGoldCorp

1. Fenn-Gib Gold Project and Tower Gold Project mineral resources compiled from public sources and are provided for general information purposes. Readers are cautioned that the Company has no interest in or right to acquire any interest in adjacent properties and they are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties or any potential exploration thereof.

Additional Notes:

Starting azimuth, dip and final length (Azimuth/-Dip/Length) for the drillholes reported today are noted as follows: MC23-132 (300/45/126).

Samples of drill core were cut by a diamond blade rock saw, with half of the cut core placed in individual sealed polyurethane bags and half placed back in the original core box for permanent storage. Sample lengths typically vary from a minimum 0.2-meter interval to a maximum 1.5-meter interval, with an average 0.5 to 1.0-meter sample length. Drill core samples were delivered by truck in sealed woven plastic bags to ALS Geochemistry laboratory facility in Timmins, Ontario for sample preparation with final analysis at ALS Geochemistry Analytical Lab facility in North Vancouver, BC. ALS Geochemistry operate meeting all requirements of International Standards ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015.

Gold is determined by fire-assay fusion of a 50-gram sub-sample with atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Samples that return values >10 ppm gold from fire assay and AAS are determined by using fire assay and a gravimetric finish. Various metals including silver, gold, copper, lead and zinc are analyzed by inductively-coupled plasma (ICP) atomic emission spectroscopy, following multi-acid digestion. The elements copper, lead and zinc are determined by ore grade assay for samples that return values >10,000 ppm by ICP analysis. Silver is determined by ore-grade assay for samples that return >100 ppm. All ALS Geochemistry sites operate under a single Global Geochemistry Quality Manual that complies with ISO/IEC 17025:2017. ALS Geochemistry follows the quality management and operational guidelines set out in the international standards ISO/IEC 17025 - "General Requirement for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories" and ISO 9001 - "Quality Management Systems".

The Company maintains a robust QA/QC program that includes the collection and analysis of duplicate samples and the insertion of blanks and standards (certified reference material).

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: This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (collectively "forward looking statements").

Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections, and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "forecast", "expect", "potential", "project", "target", "schedule", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company's planned exploration programs and drill programs and potential significance of results including the new high-grade vein structure at the Munro Croesus property described above, are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Company's expectations include actual exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital, and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials, and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same, and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause such actions, events, or results to differ materially from those anticipated. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and accordingly readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

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BECKINGTON, England and DAVENTRY, England, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SEA has awarded a contract to Razorleaf Corporation Ltd to be the implementation partner for Aras Innovator, Aras' next generation product lifecycle management (PLM) platform. Razorleaf was selected for its long-standing expertise and relationship working with Aras and Aras Innovator since 2008 when the flexible, open- source PLM platform was launched.

The core functionality of the Aras platform is to provide a single digital thread through all SEA products, from conception and requirements through to delivery and beyond. SEA will work collaboratively with Razorleaf Corporation to roll out this PLM platform over the next 18 months.

Continued delivery excellence to our people at SEA, our customers and our partners is at the core of what we do, and implementing Aras Innovator will provide a more reliable, consistent, and streamlined set of quality and engineering evidence, available in a central, digital location.

Aras Innovator is a flexible, open PLM system that brings recognised best practices into business processes. It will support our ongoing innovation and new product development, enabling transparency and collaboration across engineering processes and the ability to gather and access engineering information quickly and in a controlled manner.

James Stevens, Head of Discipline for Systems Engineering said: "Implementing Aras is a major step for SEA in streamlining the way we manage our products throughout their lifecycle. This central configuration management application will be a single source of truth across all our disciplines and enable improvements to efficiency and effectiveness going forward. Razorleaf was selected for this contract following a significant research task and we are looking forward to working collaboratively to implement this tool over the next 18 months."

Michael Welti, Managing Director of Razorleaf Corporation Ltd, said "SEA is experiencing many of the common challenges we see with complex manufacturers, which include a need to accelerate innovation, implement consistent and collaborative business processes, and integrate across data silos to support the creation of a digital thread. Aras Innovator is one of the most flexible PLM platforms that will adapt to their business and future proof product development strategies as they evolve. We are excited to partner with SEA and be a part of their success in meeting digital transformation goals."

"Our Razorleaf Ltd team is focused on bringing Aras Innovator to European manufacturers who want to evolve their innovation processes, shorten time-to-market, and build out a digital thread with integrated data strategies," stated Eric Doubell, CEO of Razorleaf Global. "Our partnership approach starts with mapping out an implementation road map that factors in SEA's priorities while taking full advantage of Aras Innovator. We have been working with the platform since 2008 and are confident that Aras Innovator will support SEA's digital transformation initiatives today and tomorrow."

About SEA

SEA has more than 60 years' experience in delivering and supporting advanced solutions that maximise defence mission capability. SEA also develops traffic enforcement and safety systems that enable more efficient transport management.

In the defence domain, SEA has applications in ship and fleet protection, agile-platform anti-submarine warfare and integrated underwater situational awareness. SEA manufactures and supports a wide range of capabilities designed to provide a rapid response to threats, track and monitor targets, and ensure system effectiveness and interoperation. SEA systems are in-service with the UK navy and multiple navies across the globe, providing agile solutions in nature's most challenging environment.

Employing approximately 340 staff, SEA has UK offices in Beckington, Bristol and Barnstaple and a Canadian office in Quebec. SEA was acquired by Cohort plc in 2007.

www.sea.co.uk

About Razorleaf Corporation

Founded in 2000, Razorleaf is a consulting & systems integrator with specialized expertise in PLM, MES, integration, migration, and test automation. We are focused on helping manufacturing organizations connect products and processes across the digital enterprise to drive more value from the innovation process. Led by a highly skilled and seasoned team of experts across the United States, Europe, and Asia, Razorleaf transforms businesses by offering comprehensive consulting and implementation services focused on managing the digital thread across the product life cycle and supply chain.

https://www.razorleaf.com

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sea-selects-razorleaf-corporation-ltd-as-project-lifecycle-management-tool-implementation-partner-302007015.html
Marula Mining Plc - Notice of AGM

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, December 06

Marula Mining PLC

("Marula'' or the "Company")

6December 2023

Notice of Annual General Meeting

Marula Mining (AQSE: MARU), an African focused mining and development company, is pleased to announce that it will hold its Annual General Meeting ("AGM") at Twickenham Rowing Club, Eel Pie Island, Twickenham, Middlesex, TW1 3DY, on Friday 29 December 2023 at 2.00pm.

The Notice of AGM has been published and is available on the Company's website: www.marulamining.com

The Directors of Marula are responsible for the contents of this announcement.

About Marula Mining

Marula Mining (AQSE: MARU) is an African focused battery metals investment and exploration company and has interests in several high value mine projects in Africa; the Blesberg Lithium and Tantalum Mine and Korridor Lithium Project in South Africa, the Kinusi Copper Mine, the Nyorinyori Graphite Project, the NyoriGreen Graphite Project and the Bagamoyo Graphite Project all in Tanzania and the Nkombwa Hill Project in Zambia. As we advance operations at these battery metals focused projects, Marula will continue to build and expand its interests in other high-quality projects in Africa.

Marula's strategy is to identify and invest in advanced and high-value mining projects throughout East, Central and Southern Africa that the Directors believe would deliver returns for its shareholders. The Board and management team aims to establish Marula as a socially and environmentally responsible, sustainable, and profitable producer of critical metals and commodities that are of increasingly strategic importance to modern technologies and the global economy. Marula's shares are traded on the AQUIS Stock Exchange (AQSE), Marula is exploring opportunities to admit its shares to trading on the London Stock Exchange plc's Standard List or AIM Market, Kenya's Nairobi Securities Exchange and South Africa's Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

For enquiries contact:

Marula Mining PLC Jason Brewer, Chief Executive Officer Faith Kinyanjui Mumbi Investor Relations Email: jason@marulamining.com Email: info@marulamining.com AQSE Corporate Adviser Cairn Financial Advisers LLP, Liam Murray / Ludovico Lazzaretti +44 (0)20 7213 0880 Broker Peterhouse Capital Limited,

Charles Goodfellow / Duncan Vasey +44 (0)20 7469 0930 Financial PR and IR BlytheRay Tim Blythe / Megan Ray / Said Izagaren +44 (0)20 7138 3204

Caution:

Certain statements in this announcement, are, or may be deemed to be, forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are identi?ed by their use of terms and phrases such as 'believe', 'could', "should" 'envisage', 'estimate', 'intend', 'may', 'plan', 'potentially', "expect", 'will' or the negative of those, variations or comparable expressions, including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but rather on the Directors' current expectations and assumptions regarding the Company's future growth, results of operations, performance, future capital and other expenditures (including the amount, nature and sources of funding thereof), competitive advantages, business prospects and opportunities. Such forward looking statements re?ect the Directors' current beliefs and assumptions and are based on information currently available to the Directors.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - Deveron Corp. (TSXV: FARM) ("Deveron" or the "Company"), a leading agriculture data company in North America, announces that the Company has implemented another phase of its cost optimization program. In a continued effort to prioritize profitable fertility related field services execution and focus, Deveron has implemented $1.5 M in cost savings mainly through the reduction of field staff and ancillary support costs within the Company's carbon business unit. The Company expects to achieve annual run rate savings totaling approximately $2,400,000 when combined with the previous $900,000 of cost synergies announced on November 21, 2023.

"Over the previous 24 months, we expanded our fields teams to serve the carbon field work volumes that our customers forecasted," commented David MacMillan, Deveron's President, and CEO. "We have been early leaders in non-traditional agriculture soil testing products, but now we have refocused our resources to better match our capacity with volumes. With these cost adjustments, the Company has better aligned its network capacity with profitable service regions and its core fertility business. With a focused strategy to build an integrated service offering for our customers, we believe there will be many further opportunities to deliver increasing soil volumes to the labs, creating significant operating leverage for the business ahead."

About Deveron

Deveron is an agriculture technology company that uses data and insights to help farmers and large agriculture enterprises increase yields, reduce costs and improve farm outcomes. The company employs a digital process that leverages data collected on farms across North America to drive unbiased interpretation of production decisions, ultimately recommending how to optimize input use. Our team of agronomists and data scientists build products that recommend ways to better manage fertilizer, seed, fungicide, and other farm inputs. Additionally, we have a national network of data technicians that are deployed to collect various types of farm data, from soil to drone, that build a basis of our best-in-class data layers. Our focus is the US and Canada where 1 billion acres of farmland are actively farmed annually.

For more information and to join our community, please visit www.deveron.com.

Philip Linton

VP Corporate Development

plinton@deveron.com

Tel: 647-622-0076

"Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX

Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release."

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of that phrase under Canadian securities laws. Without limitation, statements regarding future plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking statements that involve various degrees of risk. Forward-looking statements reflect management's current views with respect to possible future events and conditions and, by their nature, are based on management's beliefs and assumptions and subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, both general and specific to the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements. The following are important factors that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements: changes in the worldwide price of agricultural commodities, general market conditions, risks inherent in agriculture, the uncertainty of future profitability and the uncertainty of access to additional capital. Additional information regarding the material factors and assumptions that were applied in making these forward-looking statements as well as the various risks and uncertainties we face are described in greater detail in the "Risk Factors" section of our annual and interim Management's Discussion and Analysis of our financial results and other continuous disclosure documents and financial statements we file with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities which are available at www.sedarplus.ca. The Company undertakes no obligation to update this forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. The Company relies on litigation protection for forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/189971
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Gold Terra Resource Corp. (TSX-V:YGT)(Frankfurt:TX0)(OTCQX:YGTFF) ("Gold Terra" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on its Option Agreement with Midas Minerals Ltd (ASX: MM1) ("Midas"). The option with Midas includes only Lithium and Rare Earth outside the gold corridor of the Yellowknife Project covering approximately 718 square kilometres. The Yellowknife region is known to host multiple lithium-bearing pegmatites, with associated tantalum minerals relating to multiple fertile stocks emanating from the Prosperous Granite Complex.

In the Option Agreement, Midas can earn first a 51% interest over 3 years by paying C$ 1.2 million, issuing 2.2 million shares of Midas (done summer 2023) and spending a minimum of C$ 5 million, subject to a 1.5% Gross Revenue Royalty (GRR). Midas can up its interest to 80% by spending another C$ 5 million over the next 2 years and Gold Terra has a carry interest of 20% up to a positive bankable feasibility study. Refer to the March 31, 2023 press release for full details.

Chairman and CEO, Gerald Panneton, commented, "The Lithium and RRE potential of our large Yellowknife land position has always been known to exist. Our agreement with Midas Minerals gives us excellent exposure to the potential for a critical minerals discovery at no cost to Gold Terra until a positive bankable feasibility study is completed. Midas has already fulfilled its 2023 commitment and spent over $350,000 in successfully evaluating the critical minerals potential in the Quyta belt area with sampling assays up to 4.65% Lithium. Well done Midas crew!"

More than 100 LCT pegmatites are known in the region, including historic references to lithium and tantalum occurrences within the YLP tenure. Midas has completed their first season of exploration at the Yellowknife Lithium Project ("YLP") in Northwest Territories, Canada. Results of the summer/ fall exploration are shown in Figure 1. (See also Midas Minerals Nov 20, 2023 press release.)

Highlights

From May to late August 2023, Midas collected a total of 567 rock chip samples in broad-spaced regional sampling programs over approximately 300 square kilometres,

Ten spodumene-bearing pegmatites confirmed to date returning maximum grades of up to 4.65% Li2O (refer to Midas ASX release dated 2 August 2023),

(refer to Midas ASX release dated 2 August 2023), Midas has successfully defined fertile pegmatite swarms with combined 58 kilometres of strike and an area of 70 square kilometres,

Midas will undertake more detailed mapping in its 2024 field season to locate and define additional spodumene-bearing pegmatites within the fractionated pegmatite swarms located to date and prioritize targets for potential drill testing.

Figure 1 - Results from Midas fall/ summer exploration program.

Listen to an Update by Gold Terra at the Emerging Growth Conference on Dec 6

Gold Terra is pleased to announce that it has been invited to present at the Emerging Growth Conference on Dec 6th, 2023, at 2:55pm - 3:05pm EST.

Chairman and CEO, Gerald Panneton will present an update on the Gold Terra's current deep drilling program below the existing Con Mine underground workings. Drilling has confirmed the extension of the high-grade Campbell Shear which remains open for over 2 kilometres in strike and at depth below the existing Robertson shaft (-1900 metres).

If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available on EmergingGrowth.com and on the Emerging Growth YouTube Channel, http://www.YouTube.com/EmergingGrowthConference after the event. Please submit your questions for Mr. Panneton in advance to Questions@EmergingGrowth.com or ask your questions during the event.

Please register at the Emerging Growth Conference link to ensure you are able to attend the conference and receive any updates that are released.

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.

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

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements made and information contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation ("forward-looking information"). Generally, this forward-looking information can, but not always, be identified by use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events, conditions or results "will", "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotations thereof.

All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information regarding the current drilling on the Campbell Shear, potentially adding ounces to the Company's current YCG mineral resource, and the Company's objective of re-establishing Yellowknife as one of the premier gold mining districts in Canada.

There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as the Company's actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in this forward-looking information as a result of the factors discussed in the "Risk Factors" section in the Company's most recent MD&A and annual information form available under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com.

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that would cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on information available to the Company as of the date of this news release. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. All of the forward-looking information contained in this news release is qualified by these cautionary statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information due to the inherent uncertainty thereof. Except as required under applicable securities legislation and regulations applicable to the Company, the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information.

SOURCE: Gold Terra Resource Corp

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/813719/gold-terra-provides-corporate-update-on-lithium-discoveries-under-a-farm-out-option-with-midas-minerals-nwt-canada
TROY, MI / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Acclaimed cataract and refractive surgeon Dr. Joshua Vrabec is elevating patient experience to new heights through his Clear Vision Center office-based eye surgery center. Dr. Vrabec broke ground in 2022 by opening Michigan's first accredited in-office eye surgery suite, allowing cataract and LASIK patients to undergo essential eye procedures onsite without the hassle of traveling to hospitals or ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs).

Clear Vision Center is delighted to announce its OBS suite recently met the highest safety and quality standards by earning prestigious QUAD A accreditation - a first for an office-based surgery site in Michigan. This rigorous certification confirms the facility complies with the most up-to-date surgical protocols for infrastructure, equipment, medications, staff credentials and emergency response. By opting to undergo cataract, LASIK or retinal procedures in Dr. Vrabec's onsite surgery center as opposed to a hospital, patients benefit from continuity of care with familiar faces in comfortable surroundings, without exposure to other potentially ill patients.

Clear Vision is the first Michigan eye care center to pioneer the in-office surgery concept, perform over 600 successful procedures, and receive the QUAD A seal of approval. The latter is typically reserved for ambulatory surgery centers and affirms the practice's stellar safety track record of zero infections to date.

"Earning QUAD A accreditation required a tremendous collaborative effort from our entire team to implement and demonstrate adherence to the highest benchmarks for our in-office operating suite," said Dr. Vrabec. "We are proud to further our mission of pairing best-in-class clinical outcomes with an unparalleled patient experience."

In-Office Surgery Advantages:

 Lower cost - eliminates hospital and anesthesia fees

 Enhanced safety protocols to prevent infection

 Personalized care - familiar faces and setting

 No IV sedation - less risk and faster recovery

 99% patient satisfaction rate

As a board-certified ophthalmologist, LASIK surgeon, and cataract specialist with over 20 years of experience and 6,000 procedures performed, Dr. Vrabec's surgical expertise is unmatched. Combined with the convenience and comfort of an in-office setting, Clear Vision Center offers a vastly superior alternative for essential eye surgery procedures.

The QUAD A certification cements Clear Vision Center's standing as a trailblazer in office-based eye surgery. Dr. Vrabec aims to continue leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver the pinnacle of surgical precision and patient experience.

Contact Information

Joshua Vrabec

Board-Certified Ophthalmologist

joshvrabec@clearvisioncenter.com

SOURCE: Clear Vision Center

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/813572/clear-vision-center-office-based-surgery-facility-receives-quad-a-certification
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Laxxon Medical announced today its attendance at the 42nd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference, taking place January 8-11, 2024, in San Francisco, California. The J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference is the largest and most informative healthcare investment symposium in the industry, connecting global industry leaders, emerging fast-growth companies and innovative technologies of the investment community.

Representing Laxxon Medical at the J.P.Morgan Healthcare Conference is CEO Helmut Kerschbaumer and Chief Strategy Officer Alexander Ruckdaeschel, who will meet with institutional investors.

About Laxxon Medical

Laxxon Medical is a pharma-technology company pioneering a new generation of advanced pharmaceuticals with SPID, a novel 3D screen printing platform technology. For new and common pharmaceutical drugs, SPID unlocks innovative drug delivery advancements paired with fast-tracked market access and extensive IP protection to yield disruptive opportunities for partners and life-changing results for patients.

Laxxon's pipeline includes ongoing working-projects with notable pharma players, biotech companies and research universities, in addition to 13 in-house Advanced Patented Generics products. Laxxon's IP is continuously growing and consists of 150 patents and patent applications with more than 3,000 patent claims.

Laxxon is partnered with CDMO Hovione and is jointly establishing cGMP productions in Portugal and the United States.

Company website: www.laxxonmedical.com.

Company Contact

Frances Hoggard | Communications Manager | f.hoggard@laxxonmedical.com

SOURCE: Laxxon Medical

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/813750/laxxon-medical-to-attend-42nd-annual-jp-morgan-healthcare-conference-in-san-francisco
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / NOA Lithium Brines Inc. (TSX-V:NOAL) ("NOA" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that mining claims covering 38,676 hectares ("ha") at the Arizaro salar and 8,088 ha at the Tolillar salar, located in Salta province, Argentina have been officially registered in the name of a wholly owned subsidiary of NOAin the Mining Cadastre of the Province of Salta, pending final granting as mining concessions.

The 12 new Arizaro claims, known as Hilario XII to Hilario XXIII, consolidate one single block of contiguous claims, and will result in the Company holding a total of 77,704 ha of mining claims at the Arizaro salar.

At Tolillar, the 3 new claims, known as Ema II, Ema III and Ema VI, are located west of the Company's current Tolillar claims, and expand the Company's mining rights in this salar to a total of 10,836 ha.

With these new mining claims, NOA now controls more than 140,000 ha in the Lithium Triangle in Argentina, of which more than 120,000 ha are located in the Rio Grande, Arizaro and Salinas Grandes salars, which represent the Company's three highest-priority assets.

Gabriel Rubacha, Chief Executive Officer and Director of NOA, stated, "The new claims in Arizaro nearly double our current land position in this salar, and provide a new opportunity for further exploration and development of this project. With the addition of these claims, NOA holds one of the largest land positions by a single company in the Arizaro salar. The well-known exploration potential of the Arizaro salar and our extensive land position in this area provides a great opportunity for NOA to continue to explore this region, following the completion of our successful exploration efforts at our flagship Rio Grande project. The initial drilling campaign at Rio Grande will be completed by year end and we are on schedule to release our maiden resource at Rio Grande in early 2024".

Maps showing NOA's current land holdings at both the Arizaro and Tolillar salars, including the newly acquired claims, can be found in Maps 1 and 2 below.

Map 1 - Arizaro Project Claim Map

Map 2 -Tolillar Project Claim Map

About NOA Lithium Brines Inc.

NOA is a lithium exploration and development company formed to acquire assets with significant resource potential. All NOA's projects are in the heart of the prolific Lithium Triangle, in the mining-friendly province of Salta, Argentina, near a multitude of projects and operations owned by some of the largest players in the lithium industry. NOA has rapidly consolidated one of the largest lithium brine claim portfolios in this region that is not owned by a producing company, with key positions on three prospective salars (Rio Grande, Arizaro, Salinas Grandes) and totalling over 140,000 hectares.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

Gabriel Rubacha

Chief Executive Officer and Director

For Further Information on the Company

Website: www.noalithium.com

Email: info@noalithium.com

Telephone: +54-9-11-5060-4709

Alternative Telephone: +1-403-571-8013

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may include forward-looking statements that are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. All statements within this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements including, but not limited to NOA's future plans and objectives regarding its projects, which constitute forward looking information that involve various risks and uncertainties. Although NOA 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 described in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements include fluctuations in market prices, including metal prices, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. NOA does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required under applicable laws.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: NOA Lithium Brines Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/813678/noa-lithium-announces-new-claims-at-arizaro-and-tolillar-salars
Bayesian optimization engine that already powers dozens of use cases at Merck now open sourced to foster adoption

Close partnership to enable the self-driving labs of tomorrow

DARMSTADT, Germany, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Merck, a leading science and technology company, and the Acceleration Consortium, based at the University of Toronto, Canada, today jointly announced that their AI-driven experimentation planner Bayesian Back End (BayBE) is now available open-source on GitHub, with an unrestricted Apache 2.0 license. The joint open-source initiative combines the Merck portfolio of use cases with the Acceleration Consortium's world-leading excellence in self-driving labs.

"The release and maintenance of open-source code for scientific discovery is imperative for the advancement of self-driving labs. This collaboration moves the needle of multi-stakeholder work in the area of self-driving labs. I am thrilled about our collaboration with Merck on developing and publishing software for AI-assisted experimental planning. As society faces ever-growing challenges, we have no time for science as usual. With this software, we can revolutionize the way experiments are designed and conducted, accelerating discoveries and driving progress in ways we have never imagined before," said Alan Aspuru-Guzik, Professor of Chemistry and Computer Science at the University of Toronto, and Director of the Acceleration Consortium, which recently launched a seven-year program worth CA$ 200 million, supported by the Canada First Research Excellence Fund.

"This development is a great outcome of our focus on 'innovation powered by data and digital'. Together with our partners at the Acceleration Consortium, we continue to push productivity with digital tools such as BayBE. Merck continues to invest in digital technologies that can disrupt the healthcare, life science and electronics industries," said Laura Matz, Chief Science and Technology Officer at Merck. "BayBE unites several advanced technologies under one umbrella and focuses on making them useful for industrial purposes. While it already has many internal use cases, we are excited to share it with a wider community through open source. What started out as a cross-sectorial advancement can now become a cross-industrial one," Matz continued.

BayBE was built jointly across all three business sectors of Merck. It is a general-purpose toolbox for smart iterative experimentation with emphasis on important add-ons for chemistry and materials science. It enables a more systematic approach by providing recommendations for the next best experiment, leading to better results faster. BayBE can also act as the "brain" for automated equipment, enabling entirely closed-loop self-driving laboratories.

The traditional approach for design of experiments is largely based on intuition and experience of the experimentalist. This can lead to considerable variation between different labs and is particularly challenging for complex campaigns that aim to optimize numerous properties simultaneously. Merck faces these challenges on an every-day basis, for instance as part of experimental optimization campaigns in research, product development and operations. Artificial intelligence (AI) enables novel ways of tackling these problems and reducing the time needed and money spent as well as increasing sustainability.

The BayBE software already powers dozens of use-cases at Merck, for instance:

VRP ExcipientFinder : Part of the viscosity reduction platform service of the Life Science business sector of Merck; a tool to accelerate selection of viscosity reducing excipients

Part of the viscosity reduction platform service of the Life Science business sector of Merck; a tool to accelerate selection of viscosity reducing excipients BayChem : Self-service experimental planner available to everyone at Merck, directly enabling our lab users

: Self-service experimental planner available to everyone at Merck, directly enabling our lab users Self-driving autonomous flow chemistry at Merck: closed-loop platform in the R&D of the Life Science business sector that optimizes chemical reactions fully autonomously

All Merck press releases are distributed by e-mail 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.

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 MilliporeSigma in life science, EMD Serono in healthcare, and EMD Electronics in electronics.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/merck-collaborates-with-acceleration-consortium-on-open-sourcing-ai-driven-experimentation-planner-302005930.html
ST. JOHN'S, NL / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Sokoman Minerals Corp. (TSXV:SIC)(OTCQB:SICNF) ("Sokoman" or the "Company") today announces that further to its November 29, 2023, news release, due to overwhelming demand the Company is increasing its flow-through private placement financing by CAD$483,525 to total aggregate gross proceeds of CAD$3,483,525 (the "FT Financing"). The FT Financing consists of CAD$0.065 units (the "FT Units"), each FT Unit consisting of one flow-through common share of the Company entitling the holder to receive the tax benefits applicable to flow-through shares in accordance with provisions of the Income Tax Act (Canada), and one-half of a common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"), each full Warrant being exercisable for one additional common share of the Company, each of which will not qualify as a flow-through share, at an exercise price of CAD$0.13 for 12 months from the date of issue.

The Company is also pleased to announce a non-flow-through CAD$0.065 unit financing (the "NFT Financing") for aggregate gross proceeds of CAD$208,000. The NFT Financing consists of CAD$0.065 units (the NFT Units"), each NFT Unit consisting of one common share of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (the "NFT Warrants"), each NFT Warrant being exercisable for an additional common share of the Company at an exercise price of CAD$0.13 for 24 months from the date of issuance.

All securities issued pursuant to the FT Financing and the NFT Financing (together the "Financings") will be subject to a four-month and one-day hold period.

In connection with the Financings, the Company may pay finders' fees in cash and broker warrants as permitted by the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange"). The Financings are subject to Exchange approval.

The Company will use an amount equal to the gross proceeds received by the Company from the sale of the FT Units, pursuant to the provisions in the Income Tax Act (Canada), to incur eligible "Canadian exploration expenses" that qualify as "flow-through mining expenditures" as both terms are defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Qualifying Expenditures") on or before December 31, 2024, and to renounce all of the Qualifying Expenditures in favour of the subscribers of the FT Units effective December 31, 2023.

The Company intends to spend approximately 25% of the gross proceeds on the Fleur de Lys gold project, and the remaining balance on its flagship Moosehead gold project.

Tim Froude, CEO of Sokoman commented: "We are grateful that our exploration plans for 2024, which entails diamond drilling on both the Moosehead and Fleur de Lys gold projects will be fully funded. A warm thank you to all our shareholders and investors for their unwavering support."

About Sokoman Minerals Corp.

Sokoman Minerals Corp. is a discovery-oriented company with projects in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. The Company's primary focus is its portfolio of gold projects; the 100% flagship, advanced-stage Moosehead, as well as the Crippleback Lake; and East Alder (optioned to Canterra Minerals Corporation) along the Central Newfoundland Gold Belt, and the district-scale Fleur de Lys project near Baie Verte in northwestern Newfoundland, that is targeting Dalradian-type orogenic gold mineralization similar to the Curraghinalt and Cavanacaw deposits in Northern Ireland. The Company also recently entered into a strategic alliance with Benton Resources Inc. through three, large-scale, joint-venture properties including Grey River, Golden Hope, and Kepenkeck in Newfoundland. Sokoman now controls, independently and through the Benton alliance, over 150,000 hectares (>6,000 claims - 1500 sq. km), making it one of the largest landholders in Newfoundland, in Canada's newest and rapidly emerging gold districts.

In October 2023, Sokoman and Benton completed an agreement with Piedmont Lithium Inc., a major developer of lithium projects and processing plants in the USA, and exactly the right partner to have to advance the lithium project. The agreement provides for Piedmont to earn up to 62.5% of the Killick Lithium Project (formerly Golden Hope project) by funding up to $12 million in exploration expenses and issuing $10 million common shares in three stages. The Killick Lithium Project has been transferred to Killick Lithium Inc. (Killick), a 100%-owned subsidiary of Vinland Lithium Inc. (Vinland). Newly created Vinland has received $2 million in financing from Piedmont for a 19.9% interest, with the balance of ownership between Sokoman and Benton. Sokoman and Benton will continue to operate the exploration efforts at Killick through the earn-in stages. Sokoman and Benton will retain a royalty of 2% NSR on future production. Piedmont will have exclusive marketing rights for the promotion and sale of any lithium products produced from the Project on a life-of-mine basis, and the right of first refusal on 100% offtake rights to the lithium concentrates.

The Company also retains a 1% NSR interest in an early-stage antimony/gold project (Startrek) in Newfoundland, optioned to Thunder Gold Corp (formerly White Metal Resources Inc.), and in Labrador, the Company has a 100% interest in the Iron Horse (Fe) project which has Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) potential.

Mineralization hosted on adjacent and/or nearby properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Company's property.

The Company would like to thank the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for past financial support of the Moosehead Project through the Junior Exploration Assistance Program.

For more information, please contact:

Timothy Froude, P.Geo., President & CEO?

T: 709-765-1726?

E: tim@sokomanmineralscorp.com

Cathy Hume, VP Corporate Development, Director?

T: 416-868-1079 x 251

E: cathy@chfir.com

Website: www.sokomanmineralscorp.com

Twitter: @SokomanMinerals

Facebook: @SokomanMinerals

LinkedIn: @SokomanMineralsCorp

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.

Investors are cautioned that trading in the securities of the Corporation should be considered highly speculative. Except for historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially. Sokoman Minerals Corp. will not update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. More detailed information about potential factors that could affect financial results is included in the documents filed from time to time with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities by Sokoman Minerals Corp.

SOURCE: Sokoman Minerals Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/813804/sokoman-minerals-corp-increases-flow-through-private-placement-announces-hard-dollar-financing
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / E2Gold Inc. (TSXV:ETU)(OTCQB:ETUGF) announces that Ellie Owens, President and Co-Founder of E2Gold, has been appointed the Board of Directors of the Company.

Dave Good, Chair of the Board, stated, "We are happy to have Ellie join the Board. She has been integral to E2Gold's formation and evolution, and this move recognizes that important contribution."

Additionally, Todd Hennis has resigned as Board member and Audit Committee Chair. The Company has named Peter Bojtos as Chair of the Audit Committee, and has added Dave Good to the Committee. Both are independent directors.

Eric Owens, "We thank Todd for his service and commitment to the company from its early days to the present. He has been a long time colleague and trusted advisor, and we wish him well."

On the exploration front, the Company has begun line cutting and Induced Polarization work to aid in pinpointing drill hole target locations for its next round of drilling on the McKinnon East Extension, where Company geologists have uncovered high grade gold and base metal veins.

ABOUT E2GOLD INC.

E2Gold Inc. is a Canadian gold exploration company with a large flagship property, the 80 km long Hawkins Gold Project in north-central Ontario, about 140 km east of the Hemlo Gold Mine, and 75 km north of the Magino and Island Gold Mines. The property is anchored by the McKinnon Zone Inferred Resource of 6.2 Mt grading 1.65 Au g/t, for 328,800 ounces of gold1. E2Gold is working to increasing shareholder value through discoveries at Hawkins.

Note 1: NI 43-101 Technical Report and Updated Mineral Resource Estimate on Hawkins Gold Project, Ontario, by P&E Mining Consultants, effective date September 10, 2020.

For further information please contact:

Jeff Pritchard

Investor Relations

info@e2gold.ca

+1 647 699 3340

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking Statements - Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of E2Gold, including with respect to the receipt of all regulatory approvals. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: E2Gold Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/813819/ellie-owens-appointed-to-e2-board
Richard Pearce, CEO and Director will provide a corporate update via a live presentation followed by live Q&A

Investors and other interested parties invited to join and learn more about recent developments at South Star's Santa Cruz and BamaStar projects.

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / South Star Battery Metals Corp. ("South Star" or the "Company") (TSXV:STS)(OTCQB:STSBD), is pleased to announce that the Company's CEO and Director, Richard Pearce, will be providing important updates on South Star's Santa Cruz and BamaStar projects, a review of recent 2023 achievements as well as an outlook for 2024.

Date: Thursday, December 14, 2023

Time: 2pm ET

Register: Webinar Registration

Agenda:

DoD award announcement for BamaStar

Potential impacts of China's October licensing requirements on graphite exports

Next steps for BamaStar PEA & Feasibility Study

Santa Cruz Construction & Production update

HAVE QUESTIONS? There will be an allotted time following the live presentation for a Q&A session. Unaddressed questions will be reviewed by management and responded to accordingly. You may submit your question(s) beforehand in the registration form (linked above) or by email at: southstar@rbmilestone.com.

ABOUT SOUTH STAR BATTERY METALS CORP

South Star Battery Metals Corp. is a Canadian battery metals project developer focused on the selective acquisition and development of near-term production projects in the Americas. South Star's Santa Cruz Graphite Project, located in Southern Bahia, Brazil is the first of a series of industrial and battery metals projects that will be put into production. Brazil is the second-largest graphite-producing region in the world with more than 80 years of continuous mining. Santa Cruz has at-surface mineralization in friable materials, and successful largescale pilot-plant testing (> 30t) has been completed. The results of the testing show that approximately 65% of Cg concentrate is +80 mesh with good recoveries and 95%-99% Cg. With excellent infrastructure and logistics, South Star is fully funded for Phase 1, and the 12-month construction and commissioning are underway. Santa Cruz will be the first new graphite production in the Americas since 1996 with Phase 1 commercial production projected in January 2024. Phase 2 production (25,000 tpa) is partially funded and planned for 2026, while Phase 3 (50,000 tpa) is scheduled for 2028.

South Star's second project in the development pipeline is strategically located in Alabama in the center of a developing electric vehicle, aerospace, and defense hub in the southeastern United States. The BamaStar Project is a historic mine active during World Wars I & II. A NI43-101 technical report with the maiden resource estimate has been filed on SEDAR. Trenching, phase 1 drilling, sampling, analysis, and preliminary metallurgical testing have been completed. The testing indicates a traditional crush/grind/flotation concentration circuit that achieved grades of approximately 94-97% Cg with approximately 86% recoveries. South Star is executing on its plan to create a multi-asset, diversified battery metals company with near-term operations in strategic jurisdictions. South Star trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol STS, and on the OTCQB under the symbol STSBF. South Star is committed to a corporate culture, project execution plan and safe operations that embrace the highest standards of ESG principles based on transparency, stakeholder engagement, ongoing education, and stewardship. To learn more, please visit the Company website at http://www.southstarbatterymetals.com. This news release has been reviewed and approved by Richard Pearce, P.E., a "Qualified Person" under National Instrument 43-101 and President and CEO of South Star Battery Metals Corp.

On behalf of the Board,

MR. RICHARD PEARCE

Chief Executive Officer

For additional information, please contact:

South Star Investor Relations

Email: invest@southstarbatterymetals.com

+1 (604) 706-0212

Twitter: https://twitter.com/southstarbm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/southstarbatterymetals

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/southstarbatterymetals/

YouTube: South Star Battery Metals - YouTube

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding, moving Santa Cruz into production and scaling operations as well as advancing the Alabama project; and the Company's plans and expectations.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections.

SOURCE: South Star Battery Metals Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/813613/south-star-to-host-live-corporate-update-webinar-on-december-14th-at-2pm-et
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - Northstar Gold Corp. (CSE: NSG) ("Northstar" or the "Company"), announces a non-brokered private placement financing (the "Offering") for aggregate proceeds of up to $1,100,000 (CDN.).

The Offering includes a flow-through component (the "Flow-Through Component"), which is comprised of up to 10 million flow-through units (the "Flow-Through Units") at a price of $0.06 per Flow-Through Unit for gross proceeds of up to $500,000. Each Flow Through Unit is comprised of one flow-through common share (each, a "Flow Through Share") and one non-flow through share purchase warrant. Each full warrant is exercisable for one non-flow through common share (each, a "Share") at an exercise price of $0.10 for a term of 24 months after the closing. The non-flow through component of the Offering (the "Non-Flow Through Component") is comprised of up to 9,090,909 non-flow through units (the "Non-Flow Through Units") at a price of $0.055 per Non-Flow Through Unit for gross proceeds of up to $500,000. Each Non-Flow Through Unit is comprised one Share and one non-flow through warrant, with each warrant exercisable for one common share at an exercise price of $0.075 for a term of 24 months after the closing. Management of the Company reserves the right to amend the final allocation of the Flow-Through Component and the Non-Flow Through Component under the Offering.

The gross proceeds from the sale of the Flow-Through Shares will be used to incur eligible Canadian Exploration Expenses ("CEE") which will be used primarily to fund the Critical Minerals exploration at the historic high-grade Cam Copper Mine on the 100%-owned Miller Gold Property. Proceeds will also provide for follow-up of 2023 LiDAR and MMI soil survey results on the Company's 100%-owned Rosegrove Property, targeting alkaline intrusion-hosted gold mineralization, and for general working capital purposes. The Company will renounce CEE effective on or before December 31, 2023. The proceeds raised from the Non-Flow Through Component will also be used for non-critical minerals exploration work on the Miller Gold Property and for general working capital.

The Offering is scheduled to close in tranches, with the first tranche of approximately $400,000 expected to close between December 6th and 11th, 2023, and is subject to certain conditions, including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals, including the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange. The Offering is being made by way of private placement in Canada and such other jurisdictions as the Company may determine.

The Company may pay finder's fees on a portion of the Offering of up to 7% of the aggregate gross proceeds raised. The finder's fees shall be paid in accordance with applicable securities laws and the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange.

The Existing Shareholder Exemption and Investment Dealer Exemption

The Offering will be made available to existing shareholders of the Company who, as of the close of business on November 30, 2023, held common shares of the Company (and who continue to hold such common shares as of the closing date), pursuant to the prospectus exemption set out in B.C. Instrument 45-534 -- Exemption From Prospectus Requirement for Certain Trades to Existing Security Holders and in similar instruments in other jurisdictions in Canada. The existing shareholder exemption limits a shareholder to a maximum investment of $15,000 in a 12-month period unless the shareholder has obtained advice regarding the suitability of the investment and, if the shareholder is resident in a jurisdiction of Canada, that advice has been obtained from a person that is registered as an investment dealer in the jurisdiction. If the company receives subscriptions from investors relying on the existing shareholder exemption exceeding the maximum amount of the financing, the company intends to adjust the subscriptions received on a pro rata basis.

The Company has also made the Offering available to certain subscribers pursuant to B.C. Instrument 45-536 -- Exemption Form Prospectus Requirement for Certain Distributions Through an Investment Dealer. In accordance with the requirements of the investment dealer exemption, the company confirms that there is no material fact or material change about the Company that has not been generally disclosed.

All securities issued in connection with the Offering will be subject to a four-month hold period from the closing date under applicable Canadian securities laws, in addition to such other restrictions as may apply under applicable securities laws of jurisdictions outside Canada.

Northstar's primary exploration focus is the advancement of the Company's flagship, 100%-owned Miller Gold Property, situated 18 km southeast of Kirkland Lake and Agnico Eagle Mine's Macassa SMC gold mine. The Company's strategy is to develop a material (+1 million ounce) mineral resource base to support a stand-alone mining operation at the Miller Gold Property.

The Historic High-Grade Cam Copper Mine Critical Minerals Exploration Opportunity

Cam Copper is a road accessible shaft mine and small-scale, past producer of high-grade 'direct shipping' copper ore centred on the historic Boston Creek Copper Trend1,2.

Cam Copper Mine is centred on a newly recognized high-grade "Besshi-type" volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) copper system situated at the northwest end of a 0.9 km long southeast trending belt of VMS horizons. Besshi-type VMS deposits are an important global source of base metals, simplistically characterized as vented, broad sheet-like layers of magnetite, iron-copper-lead-zinc-arsenic sulphides, cobalt, sulphosalts, silver and possibly gold deposited on an ancient sea floor, hosted in volcano-sedimentary rock packages.

On November 23rd, 2023 Northstar announced results from a 720 metre diamond drill program completed on the historic high-grade Cam Copper Mine, located on Northstar's 100%-owned Miller Property situated 18 kilometres southeast of Kirkland Lake, Ontario. The Company reported all 4 drill holes intersected lenses of Cu-rich volcanogenic massive sulphides, including massive and stringer chalcopyrite in drill hole CC03-23 grading 14.8% Cu over 2.45m from 116.55m to 119m in Zone 2 (See Northstar News Release dated November 23, 2023). These results suggest Zone 2 is thickening in a southeast and down-plunge direction. Zones 1, 3 and 4 also remain open along strike and at depth.

Northstar is positioning to conduct a down-hole EM geophysical survey from 2023 Cam drill holes in early 2024, with intentions to further define the down-plunge and southeast extensions of Zone 1-4 copper-bearing massive sulphide horizons. Geophysical anomalies will be subsequently drill tested by a Phase II Cam Copper diamond drill program in late February / early March, 2024.

1Ontario Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines Mineral Deposit Inventory Record MDI31M13NW000154: Tretheway-Ossian- 1981, Ch.H. Cameron-1981.

2Ontario Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines and Mines Assessment File KL-0259, Tretheway-Ossian (Cam Copper Mine). 1961

All scientific and technical information contained in this News Release has been prepared under the supervision of Brian P. Fowler, P.Geo. President, CEO and Director of Northstar Gold Corp., a Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101.

About Northstar Gold Corp.

Northstar's primary exploration focus is the advancement of the Company's flagship, 100%-owned Miller Gold Property, situated 18 km southeast of Kirkland Lake and Agnico Eagle Mine's Macassa SMC gold mine. The Company's strategy is to develop either a minimum material (+1 million ounce) high-grade gold mineral resource to potentially supplement a nearby mining operation or a stand-alone mining operation at the Miller Gold Property.

Since going public by IPO in late 2020, Northstar has spent over $4.7 million in exploration at Miller, resulting in the discovery of a series of broad, near-surface, shallow dipping sheeted quartz-gold-telluride vein structures in the Allied Syenite (Allied Gold Zone) and Planet Syenites and numerous 70 - 750 gold gram/metre drill hole intercepts. Drilling to date at the AGZ has returned near-surface gold intercepts that include 6.6 g/t Au over 117.0 metres, 4.0 g/t Au over 50.6 metres, 1.4 g/t Au over 118.5 metres, and 1.2 g/t Au over 107.3 metres. Step out AGZ drilling in 2021 intersected peripheral steeply dipping copper-gold bearing structures (CG1 and CG2 Zones) returning intercepts that include 9.41 g/t Au, 1.03% Cu over 3.0m. The AGZ shares numerous compelling similarities to Agnico Eagle's nearby Upper Beaver Deposit, currently in the pre-development stage.

In April, 2022, as a precursor to a Mineral Resource Estimate and for reporting purposes, the Company commissioned Ronacher Mackenzie Geoscience and SRK Consulting (Canada) to conduct an Exploration Target Study of the Miller Property Allied Gold Zone and No. 1 Vein. An upper range exceeding 500,000 ounces of gold averaging 2.04 g/t Au has been referenced in this study. Results were reported July 26, 2022, (Click here to view Northstar News Release dated July 26, 2022) verifying the significance, size and gold grade potential of the Allied gold mineralizing system. Results provide the Company and investors a fact-based conceptual tonnage and gold grade range for the Allied Syenite Gold Zone, and basis for continued expansion drilling and mineral resource development.

Early in the New Year, Northstar will conduct a down-hole geophysical survey at Cam Copper Mine to define Phase II drill targets and follow up 2023 LiDAR and MMI soil survey results on the Rosegrove Property. Northstar continues to seek a senior partner to conduct Allied Gold Zone lateral and depth expansion diamond drilling on the Miller Gold Property.

Northstar's 3 additional 100%-owned exploration projects in northern Ontario, include the recently acquired 1,200 ha Rosegrove Property situated 0.5 km from the Miller Gold Property, the 4,650 ha Bryce Gold Property (includes the recently optioned Britcanna Lease), an intrusive-gold / PME VMS project located along the projected east extension of the Ridout Break, and the recently expanded Temagami-Milestone Cu-Ni-Co Critical Minerals Property located in Strathcona Township. Northstar is advancing all 3 properties to enhance monetization opportunities.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Mr. Brian P. Fowler, P.Geo.

President, CEO and Director

(604) 617-8191

bfowler@northstargoldcorp.com

Connect with us on Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities, in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold within the United States unless an exemption from such registration is available.

All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (referred to herein as "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, disclosure regarding the completion of the Offering and potential gross proceeds to be raised pursuant thereto, the receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals, the prospective nature of the Company's property interests, exploration plans and expected results, conditions or financial performance that is based on assumptions about future economic conditions and courses of action; planned use of proceeds, expenditures and budgets and the execution thereof. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate" or "believes", or the negative connotation thereof or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results, "may", "could", "would", "will", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation thereof.

All forward-looking statements are based on various assumptions, including, without limitation, the expectations and beliefs of management, the receipt of applicable regulatory approvals. availability of financing, the assumed long-term price of gold, that the current exploration and other objectives concerning its mineral projects can be achieved and that its other corporate activities will proceed as expected; that the current price and demand for gold will be sustained or will improve; the continuity of the price of gold and other metals, economic and political conditions and operations; the prospective nature of the Company's properties, availability of financing, and that general business and economic conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner.

Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of NSG to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: risks and uncertainties related to the completion of the Offering as presently proposed or at all, the failure to obtain all applicable regulatory approvals; actual results of current exploration activities; environmental risks; future prices of gold; operating risks; accidents, labour issues and other risks of the mining industry; delays in obtaining government approvals or financing; and other risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties are not, and should not be construed as being, exhaustive.

Although NSG has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. In addition, forward-looking statements are provided solely for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans and allowing investors and others to get a better understanding of our operating environment. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements in this news release are made as of the date hereof and NSG assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/189988
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - Telo Genomics Corp. (TSXV: TELO) (OTCQB: TDSGF) (FSE: 3DOA), (the "Company" or "Telo"), an emerging molecular testing platform provider leveraging the power of telomeres, looks forward to attending the American Society of Hematology (ASH) annual meeting in San Diego this week. The Company will present the repeatability analytical validation data of its lead product TeloViewSMM, while interacting with a global group of physicians and researchers and educating on the importance of telomere-based assessment of Smoldering Multiple Myeloma (SMM).

The 2023 ASH meeting taking place between December 9-12, 2023 in San Diego, USA, is an important milestone for Telo Genomics, as the Company offers it's TeloViewSMM assay to clinicians for the first time as a commercially available product. TeloViewSMM is a non-invasive liquid biopsy, featuring 3D telomere analysis, that utilizes the TeloView software platform to quantify genomic instability and transformation risk. The assay is a laboratory developed test, conducted at Telo's high-complexity ISO 15189 certified lab in Toronto.

Telo Genomics CEO Kris Weinberg commented on the excitement within the company surrounding ASH attendance and lauded his team for their efforts "Through a lot of hard work and creative energy, we are bringing TeloViewSMM to the audience at ASH. Our entire team is dedicated to improving disease management and outcomes for patients diagnosed with Smoldering Multiple Myeloma."

About the TeloView Platform

TeloViewSMM is the first marketed product/use case in the TeloView platform portfolio. As the core enabling technology of the portfolio, TeloView uses quantitative analysis of 3D telomeres in combination with molecular biology and artificial intelligence to recognize disease associated genetic instability. The novel biomarkers enabled by the TeloView platform quantify the risk of cancer progression beyond standard phenotypic measures and are additive to standard molecular analysis. The utility of TeloView as both a research and clinical tool has been substantiated in over 160 peer reviewed publications and 30+ clinical studies involving more than 3,000 patients with multiple cancers and Alzheimer's disease.

About TeloViewSMM

TeloViewSMM is a first-in-class telomere-based molecular tool that integrates proprietary quantitative analytics and artificial intelligence to evaluate the 3D organization of telomeres as a predictor of disease transformation in Smoldering Multiple Myeloma (SMM). The proprietary assay (and associated platform technology) quantifies risk of transformation/progression beyond standard phenotypic measures. Over 200,000 patients in the United States are currently living with smoldering Multiple Myeloma. The TeloViewSMM assay has a potential total addressable market of over 500,000 tests per year.

About Telo Genomics

Telo Genomics Corp. is a biotech company pioneering the most comprehensive telomere platform in the industry with powerful applications and predictive/prognostic solutions. These include liquid biopsies and related technologies in oncology and neurological diseases. Liquid biopsy is a rapidly growing field of significant interest to the medical community for being less invasive and more easily replicated than traditional diagnostic approaches. By combining our team's considerable expertise in quantitative analysis of 3D telomeres with molecular biology and artificial intelligence to recognize disease associated genetic instability, Telo is developing simple and accurate products that improve day-to-day care for patients by serving the needs of pathologists, clinicians, academic researchers and drug developers. The benefits of our proprietary technology have been substantiated in 160+ peer reviewed publications and in 30+ clinical studies involving more than 3,000 patients with multiple cancers and Alzheimer's disease. Our lead application, TeloView-MM is being developed to provide important, actionable information to medical professionals in the treatment of multiple myeloma, a deadly form of blood cancer. For more information, please visit www.telodx.com.

For further information, please contact:

Kris Weinberg, CEO

678-429-5582

kris.weinberg@telodx.com

MaRS Centre, South Tower,

101 College Street, Suite 200, Toronto,

ON, M5G 1L7 www.telodx.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

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 "intends", "will", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements regarding the clinical efficacy of products, commercial viability of products, use of proceeds, and the ability of the TeloView platform to deliver personalized medicine resulting in better treatments and outcomes are based on the Company's estimates and are 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 statements or forward-looking information, including capital expenditures and other costs. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward- looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/190022
Partnership boosts tax refunds by up to 40% for Malaysia Airlines' frequent flyers

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Enrich, the Travel and Lifestyle Loyalty programme of Malaysia Airlines has entered a partnership with utu, a travel tech company to provide its members with up to 40% additional Enrich Points through tax refunds on tax-free purchases made during international travel.

This marks an exciting headway in the travel experience for Enrich members, introducing a new avenue for earning points through tax-free shopping. Through utu, shoppers can now receive the equivalent of up to USD140 in Enrich points for every USD100 in value-added tax (VAT) refunds - a remarkable 40% boost.

The refunds are delivered in the form of extra Enrich Points, propelling Malaysia Airlines' customers quickly towards achieving their next dream trip through shopping. Moreover, these points can be redeemed for additional travel and lifestyle privileges at home and abroad.

Philip See, Chief Executive Officer of Loyalty & Travel Services (MAG), said: "The partnership with utu underscores our commitment to enhancing the travel experience for our valued Enrich members. We believe this initiative not only marks a significant transformation in our loyalty programme but also aligns with our dedication to delivering exceptional value to our customers."

Asad Jumabhoy, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of utu commented: "Malaysia Airlines is one of the world's premier carriers with one of the largest and fastest growing frequent flyer programmes anywhere. By partnering with utu, it is delivering exceptional value for all its Enrich members. Travellers using the virtual utu Tax Free Card to receive their tax refund will gain greater value in terms of reward points earned."

Getting started is easy. Enrich members can begin claiming more points by simply downloading the utu app, which is available on both Google Play and the App Store. Upon registration, members will receive a digital utu Tax Free Card within the app.

While at a store and deciding how to receive their tax refund, utu members can choose to fill in their utu Tax Free Card number on any provided tax-free form or digital refund app and complete the standard Tax Refund Validation Process at the airport before departure. Once this process is completed, the upsized value of the refund in Enrich Points is credited to their Enrich account.

About utu

utu (pronounced "you-too") is transforming tax-free shopping worldwide by empowering travellers with the freedom to obtain a higher VAT refund by going beyond digitising refunds to re-engineer the tax-free shopping value chain to benefit travellers. The utu management team has deep domain knowledge in tax-free shopping developed over 25 years of refunding VAT and GST worldwide. By bringing the worlds of refunds and rewards together, utu unlocks new value in rewards from retailers, airlines, hotels, and others. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Singapore, utu's products can be used in over 50 countries.

About Enrich by Malaysia Airlines

Enrich, the Travel & Lifestyle programme of Malaysia Airlines brings you a world of privileges, lifestyle rewards, and priority service. Earn Enrich Points when you fly with Malaysia Airlines, oneworld member airlines and Enrich partner airlines. You can also earn Enrich Points on your bank credit card points conversion, hotel stays, tour bookings, car rental, fuel purchase, dining and retail spend with a host of lifestyle partners. Redeem Enrich Points for flights, seat upgrades, in-flight duty free, Malaysia Airlines Golden Lounge access, hotel stays, dining, loyalty points swap, shopping e-vouchers and many more. With Enrich Hotels, select from an extensive list of over 400,000 hotel properties worldwide ranging from boutique hotels to international resorts that suit every need and preferences.

Enjoy rewarding travel and lifestyle experiences as you unlock more benefits each time you move up the next Enrich Elite tier. Be recognised across all oneworld member airlines with your coveted oneworld status.

Visit enrich.malaysiaairlines.com and sign up with Enrich to enjoy a world of rewards today.

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The awards celebrate the success of Snow's Partners in delivering Technology Intelligence to customers

Snow Software, the global leader in technology intelligence, today announced the winners of the 2023 Partner of the Year Awards. With the launch of the new Snow Partner Program earlier this year, the awards seek to recognize top-performing partners for their work and contributions during a year of change.

"It has been an exciting year for partners at Snow, and we wanted to take this opportunity to celebrate our partners and their incredible achievements," said Vinod Chumber, Vice President, Ecosystem Sales at Snow. "Soaring vendor and cloud prices, ongoing economic uncertainty and the need for investment in new technologies such as artificial intelligence mean that managing technology spend is more critical than ever. The impactful work being done by our partners to deliver Technology Intelligence provides so many opportunities for Snow customers to reduce spend, gain visibility into complex IT environments and prepare for cybersecurity risks."

This year's Partner of the Year Awards categories and winners are as follows:

Impact Partner of the Year: The Impact Partner of the Year award celebrates a partner's outstanding commitment, persistence and dedication to delivering multifaceted value to customers. It recognizes a standout partner for their exceptional contributions to delivering comprehensive business outcomes.

Winner: HCL Technologies Limited

Honorable Mention: Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Fujitsu Sweden AB



Innovation Partner of the Year: The Innovation Partner of the Year award recognizes a visionary partner who leads the market with an exceptional Technology Intelligence offering. Their world-class go-to-market strategy emphasizes creativity, transformative thinking and a pioneering approach to Technology Intelligence for their customers. This award acknowledges their outstanding contributions in pushing the boundaries of innovation within the industry.

Winner: Data#3 Limited

Honorable Mention: Noventiq Holdings PLC HCL Technologies Limited



Rising Star Partner of the Year: The Rising Star of the Year award celebrates a partner who is heavily invested in Snow as their primary offering. Their outstanding dedication, investment, engagement and victories demonstrate they are one to watch, as they accelerate the climb towards Genius partner status in 2024 our top-tier partner level with extensive Snow experience.

Winner: SHI International Corp.

Honorable Mention: Crayon AS Sistemas Informaticos Abiertos S.A.U



Trailblazer Partner of the Year: The Trailblazer Partner of the Year Award celebrates a partner in every region who adopted the Snow Atlas platform as their primary Technology Intelligence solution, consistently delivering exceptional outcomes for their customers. This year's remarkable performance positioned them as the standout winner in their region.

Americas:

Winner: Accenture (Proquire LLC and Avanade do Brasil Ltda.)

Accenture (Proquire LLC and Avanade do Brasil Ltda.) Honorable Mention: SHI International Corp.

Europe, the Middle East and Africa:

Winner: Softcat PLC

Softcat PLC Honorable Mention: Sistemas Informaticos Abiertos S.A.U

Asia-Pacific Region:

Winner: Data#3 Limited

Data#3 Limited Honorable Mention: Deloitte Touche Enterprise Risk Services Pte Ltd

The winners were celebrated at a virtual awards ceremony hosted on November 29.

For more information on this year's Partner Awards, please visit: https://www.snowsoftware.com/global-partner-program/partner-of-the-year-awards-2023/

About Snow Software

Snow Software is changing the way organizations understand and manage their technology consumption. Our technology intelligence platform provides comprehensive visibility and contextual insight across software, SaaS, hardware and cloud. With Snow, IT leaders can effectively optimize resources, enhance performance and enable operational agility in a hybrid world. To learn more, visit www.snowsoftware.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206298793/en/

Contacts:

PR:

Ciri Haugh

Snow Software

press@snowsoftware.com

Taylor Champlin

PAN Communications

snow@pancomm.com
In a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), urban.MASS and University of Birmingham Dubai have agreed to collaborate on research and education in the field of sustainable, multi-modal mass transit systems.

The MoU was signed during COP28, in the RTA T-R-I-P pavilion, in the presence of Mark Harper, the UK's Secretary of State for Transport.

urban.MASS is a technology and mobility company specialising in the design and development of scalable, zero-emission mass-transit solutions.

COP28 has seen the signing of many agreements critical to the next generation of transport and transport systems around the world. Today, an MoU between urban.MASS and University of Birmingham Dubai has ensured that the UK will play its role in this sustainable future.

The agreement will see urban.MASS and University of Birmingham Dubai collaborate on research into integrated multi-modal mass transit systems, urban planning, sustainable transport and renewable energy systems amongst other key areas to enhance our understanding of the transformative potential of cutting-edge mass transit technology in fostering economic growth and environmental sustainability on a global scale.

Additionally, the partnership will extend to the joint development and implementation of educational programs, dedicated to cultivating the skills and insights of the upcoming generation of transportation innovators.

Also supporting the signing was Mark Harper, the UK's Secretary of State for Transport, alongside the latest scale 1:8 model of urban.MASS' 'Floc-pod' and a new visualisation of the company's proposed Dubai transport system. The announcement follows the news earlier this year that the UK and UAE governments signed an MoU to help facilitate the sharing of technical knowledge, advice, skills and expertise, opening up new avenues for cooperation on energy and climate.

Transport Secretary, Mark Harper, said: "As the birthplace of the railway, the UK has long been at the forefront of transport innovation. This agreement between urban.MASS and University of Birmingham Dubai will ensure that such innovation is maintained into the future, enabling people to travel how they want, when they want."

The signing took place in the Road and Transport Authority Transport Research Innovation Pavilion during COP28, hosted by University of Birmingham Dubai an institution with a close working relationship with the United Arab Emirates' Road and Transport Authority.

Ricky Sandhu, Co-Founder and Chairman of urban.MASS added: "With almost 60 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere 70% of which comes from cities we need new, disruptive transport technologies that can dramatically reduce the amount of carbon in the atmosphere and reverse the effects of the last 100 years. Having been born in Birmingham myself, I'm so excited to showcase the potential of both our technology and my city in delivering the future of sustainable mass-transit to the world."

Professor David Sadler, Provost, University of Birmingham Dubai commented: "We are excited to be collaborating with urban.MASS and the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority on this innovative transport system. The university is a world-leader in sustainable transport systems and this partnership will build an exchange of knowledge and talent in areas including renewable energy and sustainable transport as well as a pipeline of talent and training for the UAE, through scholarships, funded research and the development of new academic programmes. This systemic approach to supporting the UAE's integrated transport strategy will undoubtedly help to develop future policies that support the UAE's national growth".

urban.MASS is a technology and mobility company specialising in the design and development of innovative, zero-emission mass-transit systems. The company is developing electric 'Floc-pods' for its 'Duo Rail' track providing cities with cost-effective, driverless and on-demand transport systems fit for a new era of urbanisation.

This latest agreement comes shortly in advance of urban.MASS opening its fundraising on the London Stock Exchange Group's Floww platform, with the company recently having begun work to develop a demonstrator at Shildon, County Durham, alongside further proposed projects in Saudi Arabia and Dubai.

As well as signing this MoU, Ricky Sandhu was also invited by the Ukrainian Government to support the Ukraine Business Compact in an advisory role with regard to the rebuilding of the country. He took part in a panel discussion on "Security Critical Infrastructure for a Sustainable Society" at COP28, Dubai Expo City.

About urban.MASS

urban.MASS is a UK-based mobility business focused on the design and delivery of innovative, zero-emission mass transit solutions. The business was founded to create affordable, accessible and connected mass transit for all, and to reduce congestion and pollution from passenger and cargo transport.

Products include the Floc Duo Rail system, a flexible transit system that can match capacity with demand via high frequency 'platoons' of passenger and/or cargo logistics pods. Its narrow and flexible footprint minimises the need for earthworks, costly tunnels and large stations.

https://urbanmass.co.uk/about-us.php

About University of Birmingham Dubai

The University of Birmingham is ranked amongst the world's top 100 institutions, its work brings people from across the world to Birmingham and Dubai, including researchers and teachers and more than 8,000 international students from over 150 countries.

Disclaimers

This email has not been provided, checked or approved by Floww.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206264882/en/

Contacts:

Nepean press contact:

Harry Roxburgh

hroxburgh@nepean.co.uk
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Yum! Brands



Taco Bell Blog

November is Native American Heritage Month in the United States, the time each year when we honor the contributions of Native Americans and reflect on their history. Additionally, Friday, November 25, is Native American Heritage Day. This celebration started as a day introduced in 1900 by Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a Seneca Native American and director of the Museum of Arts and Sciences. This month elevates awareness and provides an opportunity to express community, culture, and traditions for the over five million people that identify as Native American, American Indian, and Alaska Native. Take a look at our spotlight below:

Domino P. - Team Member, Franchise Org. C&R Restaurant Group, L.P.

Domino was born in Palm Springs, CA where he spent the first couple years of his life before moving to Banning-Beaumont to be closer to his tribe. He descends from two bands of Cahuilla Tribes from his mother's side, the Agua Caliente and Cahuilla (Ivtam) Band of Indians.

Domino grew up a proud Native, deeply connected to his roots. However, navigating the American and Native culture was difficult.

"I can say my upbringing was like every Native kid. It was very different [from the 'norm']. Especially in high school, I had to always explain myself and certain things. Fortunately, I had tutoring twice a week with Native teachers and students which became my safe space," he said.

Although Domino was surrounded by Native kids, his greatest connection to his heritage came from his grandma who showed him the Cahuilla culture and traditions. From speaking their language, Cahuilla (ivillu), to Bird Singing, songs that describe the story of Cahuilla's migration, she taught him everything he knows today.

"My grandma taught me so much, including Bird Singing, which has to be my favorite tradition. Singing of the Birds is where 11 Bands of Cahuilla come together to Bird Sing during Powwow season. Bird Singing is only taught so not everyone from the Indian Country (Native Americans in Mexico, Canada and America) can pick it up, which is cool."

Currently, Domino is a student at the California Indian Nations College studying political science to become a Tribal Lawyer. This college was created to empower Native students pursuing higher education, but to also educate non-natives on their culture and history. Luckily, Domino has a fully online schedule that allows him to work the night shift at Taco Bell.

But how'd he end up at Taco Bell? Funny enough, he stumbled upon The Bell while hungry.

"I was really hungry one day, so I decided to eat some Taco Bell, specifically the steak quesadilla with extra steak. As I approached the restaurant, I saw a hiring sign, so I decided to apply. Quickly after, I got hired!"

Since joining Taco Bell, Domino has been able to immerse himself in a newfound community of people that go the extra mile for him.

"There's a lot of people at Taco Bell who help each other out. I've never had a job where I've felt more included or been around a group of people that care. What's even crazier is that some of my co-workers are even learning Cahuilla to talk to me."

In addition, Domino appreciates how he's able to express himself during work.

"No matter what culture you come from, you're allowed to express yourself. For example, I'm encouraged to braid my hair and put it in a bun because braiding hair is something we do in my culture. It symbolizes my spirit, and at Taco Bell, I don't have to change who I am."

In the future, Domino hopes to educate others about his culture to play a role in bringing back the Native voice. Native American Heritage Month can be honored even more by supporting Native-owned businesses, donating to Native-led nonprofits, listening to podcasts, watching related movies, attending locally hosted events and more! If you're looking for resources to learn more about the Native heritage, Domino suggests starting with Hulu show Rez Dogs!

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Yum! Brands on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Yum! Brands

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/yum-brands

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Yum! Brands

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ANDERNACH, Germany, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- LTS, a leading pharmaceutical technology company, announced today that it has received a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The grant will support new formulation methods for mRNA, such as dissolvable microneedle array patches (MAPs), to increase the thermostability of the overall product for its use in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), especially in hard-to-reach conditions. This grant will fund $1.2 million over a duration of 15 months.

mRNA technology is considered a potential game-changer for a range of infectious diseases, including tuberculosis, malaria, and Lassa fever, which disproportionately affect people in LMICs. One of the major challenges the world faces in getting these life-saving vaccines to vulnerable populations - particularly those in poorer countries - is the need to store them at very low temperatures. The need for frozen storage of the current generation of mRNA vaccines is due to the fragility of mRNA molecules. The incorporation of mRNA into a dissolvable MAP may overcome this challenge by protecting the mRNA against degradation, removing the need for frozen storage, and simplifying the access to people living in LMICs.

At the World Vaccine Congress in Barcelona, LTS recently presented pre-clinical data from an mRNA/LNP MAP-based vaccination against rabies, from a collaboration with a biopharmaceutical company. This successful pre-clinical study with mRNA/LNP vaccine against rabies demonstrated that the cold-chain requirements can be reduced from -80C to 2-8C by using a MAP instead of an injectable formulation.

MAPs are an innovative drug delivery technology that offers advantages in comparison to established drug delivery applications, such as the opportunity for dose-sparing, lowering requirements for cold-chain and the possibility for self-administration.

Bas van Buijtenen, CEO of LTS, commented: "At LTS, we care passionately about bringing patient friendly drug delivery to people worldwide. We are honoured to be receiving support from the Gates Foundation in creating solutions for populations that would otherwise be at risk of being left behind. With MAPs, we aim to deliver improved access to essential vaccines to these groups, potentially saving lives."

"The LTS MAP team is excited to have support from the Gates Foundation for the development of a thermostable mRNA/LNP MAP", said Dr. Frank Theobald, Head of MAP Program at LTS. "LTS has made great progress recently with its MAP Program with respect to pre-clinical and clinical data, taking steps towards the up-scaling and commercialization of the MAP technology. LTS believes that MAPs will be a breakthrough technology for improving vaccination coverage in LMICs. Support from the foundation will help to develop the MAP technology further and bring it to the next level of maturity and make it accessible for patients in the foreseeable future."

Picture is available at AP

About LTS

We CARE. We CREATE. We DELIVER. The driving philosophy behind LTS. As a trusted technology partner for the pharmaceutical industry, we develop and manufacture innovative drug delivery systems such as Transdermal Patches ("TTS") and Oral Thin Films ("OTF") as well as wearable drug delivery devices ("OBDS"). LTS' commercial offering encompasses more than 20 marketed products and a diverse pipeline of more than 40 development projects targeting multiple disease indications. LTS's innovation pipeline contains both partner-funded as well as proprietary, LTS-funded projects. LTS maintains its leading position through the continuous refinement of its core TTS and OTF technologies and by advancing emerging drug delivery technologies, including Microneedle Array Patches ("MAP") for the transdermal delivery of small and large molecules, biological actives and vaccines. With its SorrelTM wearable drug delivery platform LTS offers patient friendly solutions for complex drugs delivery at home. Founded in 1984, LTS operates today from four sites: in Andernach, Germany, West Caldwell, NJ, USA, St. Paul, MN, USA and Netanya, Israel. LTS has also a representative office in Shanghai, China.

Contact

Dr Iris Schnitzler

iris.schnitzler@ltslohmann.com

+49 2632 992589

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Strengthening emission norms coupled with increase in demand for efficient transportation and increasing R&D activities drive the growth of the global hybrid electric car market.

WILMINGTON, Del., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Hybrid Electric Car Market by Powertrain (Series Hybrid, Parallel Hybrid and Combined Hybrid), Degree of Hybridization (Fully Hybrid and Mild Hybrid), and Vehicle Type (Standard Hybrid, Luxury Hybrid, and Performance Hybrid): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the global hybrid electric car industry size generated $229.2 billion in 2022, and is anticipated to generate $489.7 billion by 2032, witnessing a CAGR of 7.8% from 2023 to 2032.

(We are providing hybrid electric car industry report as per your research requirement, including the Latest Industry Insight's Evolution, Potential and Russia-Ukraine War Impact Analysis)

122 - Tables

81 - Charts

284 - Pages

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Prime determinants of growth

The global hybrid electric car market has experienced significant growth and transformation, driven by strengthening emission norms, increase in demand for efficient transportation, and surge in R&D activities. Hybrid electric cars, designed to offer high fuel efficiency and performance, play a pivotal role in the modern transportation landscape.

Report Coverage and Details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2032 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2022 $229.2 billion Market Size in 2032 $489.7 billion CAGR 7.8 % No. of Pages in Report 284 Segments Covered Powertrain, Degree of Hybridization, Vehicle Type and Region. Drivers Strengthening emission norms Increase in demand for efficient transportation Increase in R&D activities Opportunities Increase in demand for hybrids to create lucrative growth opportunities for maintenance and aftersales services Increase in the price of fossil fuel to provide an opportunity for players operating in the market Restraints Increase in the trend towards electric vehicles

Russia-Ukraine War Scenario

The impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict has been notably adverse for the automotive sector, not only affecting Ukraine and Russia but also sending ripples across neighboring nations and beyond. Disruptions in supply chains have emerged due to the close proximity of vital manufacturing and supply centers in both countries.

The conflict has led to delays and increased costs for hybrid electric car manufacturers, as they may struggle to obtain critical parts or materials required for production. Economic uncertainty, trade disruptions, and geopolitical tensions can lead to reduced economic growth in the affected regions.

The parallel hybrid segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

Based on the powertrain, the parallel hybrid segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for two-fifths of the global hybrid electric car market revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. However, the combined hybrid segment is estimated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 8.5%, owing to combined hybrid ability to offer the driver to switch between engine and electric motor at any given time, this ability is increasing the demand for combined hybrids, which are extensively being used in performance cars and luxury cars.

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The fully hybrid segment to maintain its leadership throughout the forecast period

Based on the degree of hybridization, the fully hybrid segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than half of the global hybrid electric car market, and is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR of 8.6% is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period 2023 to 2032, due to its lower greenhouse gas emissions and lower environmental impact. Similarly, fully hybrid electric cars are also a strong competitor to fully electric cars, and hence, the demand for fully hybrid is increasing as it allows users to shift to electric motor or ICE mode at any time.

The standard hybrid segment to maintain its leadership throughout the forecast period

Based on the vehicle type, the standard hybrid segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly three-fifths of the global hybrid electric car market. However, the luxury hybrid segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 8.3% during the forecast period owing to increase in the inclination of consumers for luxury product ranges. In addition, companies operating in the market are also developing technologies that are fuel-efficient and provide luxury at the same time.

Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2032

Based on region, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022 accounting for more than two-fifths of the global hybrid electric car market due to the growing car ownership in the Asia-Pacific region, along with government support for the adoption of hybrid vehicles.

However, LAMEA is expected to grow at the highest CAGR of 9.3% during the review period due to technological advancement and growing income level in the region.

Key Highlights of the Report:

The hybrid electric car market study encompasses 16 countries, providing regional and segment analysis for each country in terms of value ($million) over the projected period of 2023-2032.

Top companies operating in the industry have been profiled in the research study.

Integrating high-quality data, professional insights, and critical independent perspectives, the study adopts a research approach aimed at offering a well-rounded view of global markets. The intention is to assist stakeholders in making informed decisions to achieve their ambitious growth objectives.

The research involved a comprehensive review of over 3,700 product literature, annual reports, industry statements, and other comparable materials from major industry participants, enhancing understanding of the market dynamics.

Key Developments:

Leading companies are implementing various strategies, including acquisition, agreement, expansion, partnership, contracts, and product launches, to fortify their market positions.

In May 2022 , Honda Motor Co., Ltd. introduced the hybrid electric car City to the Indian market. It is the first vehicle in the mainstream market category equipped with standard powerful hybrid electric technology, featuring a self-charging two-motor strong hybrid system paired with a 1.5-liter petrol engine.

, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. introduced the hybrid electric car City to the Indian market. It is the first vehicle in the mainstream market category equipped with standard powerful hybrid electric technology, featuring a self-charging two-motor strong hybrid system paired with a 1.5-liter petrol engine. In January 2023 , TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION launched the all-new Prius HEV in Japan, equipped with the latest fifth-generation hybrid system. The Prius achieves great fuel efficiency and enhanced performance on low-friction road surfaces.

, TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION launched the all-new Prius HEV in Japan, equipped with the latest fifth-generation hybrid system. The Prius achieves great fuel efficiency and enhanced performance on low-friction road surfaces. In May 2023, Kia Corporation showcased its new lineup of HEVs in Saudi Arabia, featuring models like K5, K8, Sorento, and Niro Plus. These new models aim to achieve a fuel economy of up to 40%, reflecting Kia Corporation's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and expanding its eco-friendly car offerings.

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Leading Market Players: -

TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION

Honda Motor Co., Ltd

Mercedes-Benz Group AG (Former Daimler AG)

BMW AG

Ford Motor Company

Hyundai Motor Company

Volkswagen Group

Kia Corporation

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

AB Volvo.

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global hybrid electric car market. These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario.

Similar Reports We Have on EV Industry:

Micro Electric Vehicle Market Research Report 2023-2032

Low Speed Electric Vehicle Market Research Report 2023-2032

Self-Driving Electric Vehicle Market Research Report 2023-2032

Electric Vehicle Market Research Report 2023-2032

About Us

Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market 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.

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CHICAGO, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The traffic management market will evolve to incorporate cutting-edge technology like artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), adjust to connected and autonomous cars, provide dynamic route assistance, and prioritise sustainability. The public-private sector working together, cybersecurity, and resilience planning will all be important factors in determining how things develop.

The Traffic Management Market is expected to reach USD 72.5 billion by 2028 from USD 42.3 billion in 2023, at a CAGR of 11.4 % during 2023-2028, according to MarketsandMarkets.

Browse in-depth TOC on "Traffic Management Market"

170 - Tables

40 - Figures

290 - Pages

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Scope of the Report

Report Metrics Details Market size available for years 2018-2028 Base year considered 2022 Forecast period 2023-2028 Forecast units Value (USD) Million/Billion Segments Covered By component (hardware, solutions, and services), System, Areas of Application, and Region Region covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America Companies covered The major players in the Traffic Management Market are Cisco (US), Mundys SpA (Italy), SWARCO (Austria), Siemens (Germany), IBM (US), Kapsch TrafficCom (Austria), Thales Group (France), Q-Free (Norway), PTV Group (Germany), Teledyne FLIR Systems Inc. (US), Cubic Corporation (US), TOMTOM (Netherlands), Huawei (China), ST Engineering (Singapore), ChevronTM (England), Indra Sistemas (Spain), and Econolite (US).

The adoption of traffic management has experienced a remarkable surge in recent years, as government initiatives worldwide are recognizing the significance of effective traffic management, leading to investments in technologies and the formulation of smart city transportation plans. These initiatives aim to enhance traffic flow, reduce congestion, and promote public transportation as part of a holistic approach to urban mobility challenges. The development of smart cities is leveraging various technologies such as sensors, cameras, data analytics, and artificial intelligence to revolutionize traffic management.

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The route guidance & route optimization segment contributed the largest market share in the Traffic Management Market during the forecast period.

Route guidance systems leverage real-time data, including traffic conditions and congestion patterns, to provide dynamic and personalized navigation instructions to drivers. By offering optimal routes based on current traffic situations, these systems contribute to minimizing travel time, reducing congestion, and improving overall road network utilization. Additionally, route optimization algorithms play a crucial role in strategic traffic management planning, analyzing historical and real-time data to identify the most efficient paths for different types of vehicles. By considering factors such as traffic density, road capacity, and alternate routes, route optimization helps in proactively managing traffic flow, reducing bottlenecks, and promoting smoother journeys for commuters. Together, route guidance and optimization technologies play a pivotal role in creating intelligent and responsive traffic management solutions that contribute to enhanced mobility and a more sustainable urban environment.

The adaptive traffic control system segment is projected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

An Adaptive Traffic Control System (ATCS) is a sophisticated traffic management solution designed to dynamically respond to real-time traffic conditions and optimize signal timings at intersections. Unlike traditional, fixed-time traffic signal systems, ATCS utilizes a network of sensors, cameras, and data analytics to continuously monitor traffic flow. This system adjusts signal timings in real-time based on factors such as traffic volume, congestion levels, and changing patterns throughout the day. By dynamically adapting to the current demand, ATCS aims to reduce traffic delays, minimize congestion, and improve overall traffic efficiency. The ATCS plays a pivotal role in traffic management, offering a responsive and intelligent approach to address the complexities of urban mobility. It contributes to creating smoother traffic flow, reducing travel times, enhancing road safety, and ultimately optimizing the performance of transportation networks within urban environments.

Based on region, Asia Pacific is projected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

Asia Pacific, home to nearly 40% of the world's population, is witnessing diverse implementations of traffic management technologies. Rapidly growing countries like China, India, and South Korea face congestion and population explosion issues, while smaller and high-tech islands like Singapore and Japan present a different scenario. In Thailand, heavy traffic congestion is driven by citizens heavily relying on cars for urban transportation. The region boasts the most congested cities globally, with six out of the top ten located in Asia. Examples include Bengaluru, India, and Manila, the Philippines. The ongoing traffic management projects in Asia, like the Gateway WA Perth Airport and Freight Access Project in Australia and the Smart City Kochi project in India, are indicative of the region's efforts to replace and upgrade existing transportation systems. These initiatives are expected to significantly impact the Traffic Management Market in the Asia Pacific, where various technology service providers are already offering solutions.

Top Key Companies in Traffic Management Market:

The report profiles key players such as Cisco (US), Mundys SpA (Italy), SWARCO (Austria), Siemens (Germany), IBM (US), Kapsch TrafficCom (Austria), Thales Group (France), Q-Free (Norway), PTV Group (Germany), Teledyne FLIR Systems Inc. (US), Cubic Corporation (US), TOMTOM (Netherlands), Huawei (China), ST Engineering (Singapore), ChevronTM (England), Indra Sistemas (Spain), and Econolite (US).

Recent Developments:

In July 2022, HDtraffic and Siemens, signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Yutraffic Technologies to jointly develop and create systemic product-based solutions with Yutraffic and collaborated with Yutraffic on commercial projects and demonstration projects in the fields of transportation digitalization, Internet of Vehicles (IoV), and autonomous driving.

In July 2022, TomTom partnered with the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management to increase road safety. Through three-year-long cooperation with the Dutch Ministry and ANWB, Be-Mobile, Inrix, Hyundai, and Kia, Dutch drivers rely on TomTom traffic services.

In April 2021, Q-Free and the Georgia transport department signed a 10-year agreement where Q-Free will provide central traffic management software, Intelight MAXTIME, an intersection control software, and all associated intersection traffic controller hardware services throughout the state. This deal completely upgrades the State's current central traffic signal management system to Kinetic Signals.

In February 2021, Huawei and Tumeng Technology partnered to release a joint solution for holographic intersections. This would strengthen the urban traffic movement in the Suzhou research center.

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Traffic Management Market Advantages:

Traffic management technologies help authorities locate and relieve traffic bottlenecks by giving them real-time information into traffic conditions. This increases overall traffic flow while minimising commuter delays.

With the monitoring and regulation of traffic flow, the management of intersections, and the implementation of accident prevention strategies, traffic management systems improve road safety. Alerts indicating possible safety risks can be quickly identified and addressed by intelligent systems.

Traffic conditions in real time are used by adaptive traffic signal control systems to modify the timing of the signals. This dynamic control aids in lowering total travel time, improving signal cycles, and minimising wait periods at crossings.

Buses, trains, and other public transit modes can coordinate more effectively because to traffic management technologies' frequent integration with public transportation networks. Enhancing connectivity and creating a smoother travel experience can result from this.

Those that commute gain from traffic management systems' real-time traffic information. Users are empowered to make educated decisions on their routes by having access to this information via a variety of channels, including websites, mobile apps, and electronic signage.

Certain traffic management systems have components that give emergency vehicles, including fire trucks and ambulances, precedence. This guarantees that in urgent circumstances, emergency services can go through traffic more quickly.

To make it easier for customers to locate open parking spots, certain traffic management systems have parking management functions. In addition to improving general traffic flow, this can shorten the time spent looking for parking.

As urban environments and transport patterns change, modern traffic management systems are made to be both scalable and flexible. Incorporating novel technology and growing the system as required are made possible by this.

Report Objectives

To determine and forecast the global Traffic Management Market by component (hardware, solutions, and services), system, areas of application, and region from 2023 to 2028, and analyze the various macroeconomic and microeconomic factors that affect the market growth.

To forecast the size of the market segments concerning five main regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC), Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa (MEA).

To provide detailed information about the major factors (drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges) influencing the growth of the Traffic Management Market.

To analyze each submarket with respect to individual growth trends, prospects, and contributions to the overall Traffic Management Market.

To analyze the opportunities in the market for stakeholders by identifying the high-growth segments of the Traffic Management Market.

To profile the key market players; provide a comparative analysis based on business overviews, regional presence, product offerings, business strategies, and key financials; and illustrate the market's competitive landscape.

Track and analyze competitive developments in the market, such as mergers and acquisitions, product developments, partnerships and collaborations, and Research and Development (R&D) activities.

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Researchers from the Politecnico di Milano and Ca' Foscari University of Venice are part of the team unravelling the causes of the degradation of cadmium yellow, used by the Spanish painter: the presence of zinc in the crystalline matrix of the pigment, the production process and the environmental conditions in which paint was stored. The research is published in the scientific journal Heritage Science.

MILAN, Italy, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A photo from 1978 shows famous Catalan surrealist painter Juan Miro in his Taller Sert, surrounded by his paintings. In the background, the bright, intense yellow of Femme dans le rue (1973), stands out. Fifty years later, that cadmium-based yellow is faded and chalky. The same phenomenon has affected 25 other paintings in the Fundacio Miro Mallorca.



The degraded yellow paint used by Miro is made from cadmium yellow, a modern pigment composed of cadmium sulfide and introduced in the late 19th century. The pigment was used extensively by artists such as Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse, who appreciated its brilliance and full-bodied tone. As discovered in recent years, however, this pigment can become unstable, leading to a deterioration of the paint, as in the case of important artworks such as Edward Munch's The Scream.

The research conducted so far has provided an understanding of the degradation process, but has not completely clarified the latter's triggering factors. Furthermore, degradation is more evident in paintings dated between the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century, at a time when the methods for synthesising cadmium yellow pigment had not yet been perfected, while Miro's works were painted in the 1970s, i.e. in a much later period.

The Fundacio Miro Mallorca collection therefore represents a unique case study for understanding the deterioration of this particular paint at a later stage in the history of cadmium yellow pigment production.

To shed light on the issue, the conservators turned to restorer Mar Gomez Lobon, who assembled an international team that included Italian scientists Daniela Comelli and Marta Ghirardello from the Politecnico di Milano and Francesca Caterina Izzo from Ca' Foscari University of Venice.

The researchers and their colleagues analysed nine samples taken from the artist's paintings, paint tubes, and palettes, and used a multi-analytical approach: electron microscopy, X-ray fluorescence at the Grenoble synchrotron, infrared spectroscopy, micro photoluminescence and chromatographic analysis.

The paint's chemical composition and the crystalline structure of the pigments are the clues that lead the research team to argue that the degraded cadmium yellow came from paint tubes produced by the French brand Lucien Lefebvre-Foinet, a favourite of Miro's. Over a hundred tubes of this brand were found in his studios, including five of Cadmium Yellow Lime No.1, unrecognisable today. This was certainly not a cheap product: the Parisian house produced high quality colours that artists such as Mondrian, Matisse and Giacometti used.

"Its low crystallinity exposes the pigment to high photo-chemical reactivity. This is one of the main causes of the paint's vulnerability and can be traced back to the method by which the pigment was synthesised. Such method is, however, unknown, and no historical sources have yet been found," explains Daniela Comelli from the Physics Department of the Politecnico di Milano.

Finally, storage and environmental conditions strongly contributed to the material's chemical and physical transformation. Samples with the same chemical composition show different levels of degradation, and the best-preserved colour comes from a palette that had remained locked in a drawer for 32 years, protected from light and changes in humidity.

"The preservation of Miro's and other artists' cadmium yellow requires control over environmental parameters such as exposure to light and relative humidity," explains Francesca Caterina Izzo of Ca' Foscari University of Venice. "When painted surfaces are severely degraded and therefore fragile, glazing with UV-filtering glass may help, while solutions involving the application of protective coatings, varnishes or consolidants require further study.

The research, published in the scientific journal Heritage Science, was conducted by restorer Mar Gomez Lobon together with Marta Ghirardello and Daniela Comelli of the Politecnico di Milano, Enric Juncosa Darder of the Fundacio Pilar i Joan Miro in Mallorca, Carlos Palomino Cabello and Marta Bauza of the Universitat de les Illes Balears, Marine Cotte of the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Austin Nevin, Aviva Burnstock and Silvia Rita Amato of The Courtauld Institute of Art, and Francesca Caterina Izzo of Ca' Foscari University of Venice.

Research into Miro's "mystery" yellow will continue with research on other colours of the Lucien Lefebvre-Foinet brand and on paintings containing cadmium yellow that were stored in similar conditions but do not show the same signs of decay.

Full scientific article on: https://heritagesciencejournal.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40494-023-00987-4

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EQS Newswire / 06/12/2023 / 16:30 CET/CEST

Showcasing the latest developments in life sciences, AI and robotics, paving way to Hong Kong as an international science and research hub HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 6 December 2023 - Organised by the Innovation and Technology Commission and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC), InnoHK Summit 2023 was held successfully in Hong Kong Science Park today (December 6), attracting over 800 world-class academics, scientists, representatives of renowned institutes and industry leaders from Hong Kong and around the world. Under the theme of "From Collaborative Research to Real World Impact", the Summit aims to showcase the latest innovation and technology (I&T) developments and breakthroughs of InnoHK, Hong Kong's leading role as a global research collaboration hub, and its strengths in commercialisation and talent development.



Organised by the Innovation and Technology Commission and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC), the InnoHK Summit 2023 was held in Hong Kong Science Park today (December 6). Photo shows Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong (centre); the Chairman of the InnoHK Steering Committee, Professor Tsui Lap-chee (second left); the Permanent Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Mr Eddie Mak (second right); the Commissioner for Innovation and Technology, Mr Ivan Lee (first left); and the Chief Executive Officer of the HKSTPC, Mr Albert Wong (first right), officiating at the opening ceremony.

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, gave his welcoming at the Summit by video. Mr Lee said that the InnoHK initiative strives to build a global network of mutual learning and advancement, and the Summit is testimony to the importance attached by the HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government to international collaboration for knowledge advancement, addressing global issues, and transforming scientific findings into innovations that benefit humankind. He encouraged the Summit's participants to draw on the spirit of collaboration, and make lasting connections that would lead to more scientific breakthroughs and innovations in Hong Kong.



Speaking at the forum, the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, said that Hong Kong has always been an open cosmopolitan with a diverse community and remains the only place in the world where global connectivity and the China advantage come together. With the staunch support from the motherland's National 14th Five-Year Plan, and the opportunities brought by the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Hong Kong is well positioned for I&T development. The Chief Executive had announced the establishment of a new InnoHK research centre focusing on Generative AI in his newly released Policy Address and the preparation for the establishment of the third InnoHK research cluster focusing on advanced manufacturing, materials, energy and sustainable development would commence next year.



InnoHK Summit 2023 was held in Hong Kong Science Park attracted over 800 renowned scholars, researchers, organisations and industry leading forces around the world in attendance.

The Founding President of the Hong Kong Academy of Sciences and Chairman of the InnoHK Steering Committee, Professor Tsui Lap-chee, pointed out in his speech that the exchange of knowledge and ideas by people from different parts of the world has always been crucial to stimulating advances in science and technology while turning scientific findings into solutions with real-world impact requires the collaboration among the academia, industry, government and civil society that transcends traditional sector boundaries. He emphasised that InnoHK encapsulated the two dimensions of collaboration by connecting institutions and researchers across Asia Pacific, Europe and North America and encouraging them to work with the industry to translate their research outcomes into applications.



The Chief Executive Officer of the HKSTPC, Mr Albert Wong, also spoke at the forum. He stated that InnoHK is unique due to Hong Kong's high concentration of top researchers and universities, its international connections, and robust government support for I&T. HKSTP is committed to focusing on research and its practical application. It will continuously enhance the ecosystem by attracting more participants, investment funding, and additional resources to solidify Hong Kong's role as a global powerhouse of innovation and technology.



The Summit invited representatives from 28 research laboratories of two InnoHK clusters, namely Health@InnoHK, focusing on healthcare technologies, and AIR@InnoHK, focusing on artificial intelligence and robotics technologies to present their latest breakthroughs resulted from their collaborative research. They also shared the challenges faced, and set out targets and vision for future researches.



Also, the summit provided a platform for experts from leading local and international universities and industry representatives to exchange valuable insights on I&T topics, covering life sciences' research and development (R&D), artificial intelligence and commercialisation of R&D outcomes, during three panel discussions. They also discussed and exchanged views and ideas on the latest trends and perspectives of I&T research and development to harness the collective wisdom and insights that helps lay solid foundation for Hong Kong's transformation into an international I&T hub.



InnoHK is a major I&T initiative of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government to develop Hong Kong as a hub for global research collaboration. Two research clusters have been set up at the Hong Kong Science Park, namely Health@InnoHK, focusing on healthcare technologies, and AIR@InnoHK that focuses on artificial intelligence and robotics technologies. InnoHK involves seven local universities and research institutions as well as over 30 top-notch institutions from 11 economies, pooling together 2,500 researchers locally and from all over the world.Hashtag: HKSTP InnoHK

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 with a mission to position Hong Kong as an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub. HKSTP has created a thriving I&T ecosystem supporting over 10 unicorns with more than 13,000 research professionals and over 1,500 technology companies from 24 countries and regions focused on healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies.



We offer comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures on their I&T journey. Our growing innovation ecosystem is built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Shatin, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long. The three InnoParks are realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined for a new generation of industry.



To support Hong Kong's future development and its growing demands of the I&T industry, HKSTP is actively connecting the city with Shenzhen. This aims to strengthen cross-border exchange, attract technology companies as well as talent from around the world, helping them go global by exploring the mainland China and overseas markets.



Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen, opened in September this year with a gross floor area of 31,000 square meters. The two buildings provide both dry and wet laboratories, co-working areas, conference and exhibition spaces, and more. We will focus on attracting enterprises in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability.



Through our infrastructure, services, expertise, and network of partnerships, HKSTP will help establish I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong, while reinforcing the city's international I&T hub status as a launchpad for growth at the heart of the GBA innovation powerhouse.



More information about HKSTP is available at www.hkstp.org .



News Source: Media OutReach

06/12/2023 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



Media archive at www.todayir.com


New figures from Absolar, a Brazilian PV trade group, show that the country could install 9.3 GW of solar in 2024, bringing it to 45.5 GW of installed PV capacity by the end of next year.From pv magazine Brazil New forecasts by Absolar, the Brazilian solar energy association, suggest that new investments in the PV sector could exceed BRL 38.9 billion ($7.8 billion) in 2024. The trade body said the PV sector is expected to generate more than 281.6 thousand new jobs next year, spread across all regions of Brazil, providing more than BRL 11.7 billion of extra revenue for the state budget. Developers ...

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According to projections, key players in the short-term vacation rental industry are capitalizing on advancements in online booking platforms, virtual tours, property management software, and augmented reality to elevate guest experiences, streamline operations, and drive revenue growth. Embark on a deeper exploration to gain comprehensive global insights into this dynamic market.

NEWARK, Del., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The global short-term vacation rental market value is expected to rise from US$ 1,35,258.3 million in 2024 to US$ 3,77,191.2 million by 2034. This growth is expected to be driven by an excellent CAGR of 10.80% over the next decade.

To access in-depth market analysis updates, historical data (2019 to 2023), and projected market size (2024 to 2034), request your complimentary sample PDF report today.

An increasing inclination toward budget-friendly accommodations favors the short-term vacation rental industry. Additionally, there is an emerging trend of staycations, especially among working professionals, who seek leisure time during their vacation.

Key players are launching innovative solutions and services to improve guests' experience and streamline operations for property owners. Common technological solutions used by operators to enhance the booking experience include online booking platforms, virtual tours, property management software, and augmented reality (AR). By leveraging these advancements, operators are boosting their guest experience, fueling revenue growth, and increasing booking rates.

Affordability and comfort associated with short-term rental properties are attracting customers for this type of accommodation. Additionally, consumer expectations are ever-growing, and optimized sites are meeting the rising demand for real-time bookings via the latest technologies. Additionally, players are offering immediate reservation options, which boosts service differentiation.

"Market participants are investing in new technologies and properties to attract customers to their sites. Key players are projected to find significant opportunities in India and China to expand their reach and gain higher profits. To capture the emerging opportunities, players are optimizing their sites to lower bounce rates," says Ronak Shah (Associate Vice President at Future Market Insights).

Key Takeaways from the Short-term Vacation Rental Market Report

The United States short-term vacation rental market is anticipated to register a CAGR of 5.9% through 2034. The lower growth rate than its counterparts suggests lower growth opportunities for short-term rental businesses to flourish.

The Germany market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 9.20% through 2034. The market is expected to attract significant players over the next ten years.

The short-term vacation rental market in India is anticipated to explode over the upcoming decade. The market is estimated to record a CAGR of 15.70% through 2034.

In China, the CAGR for the market is expected to be 14.60% through 2034, whereas in Australia, the CAGR is estimated to be 9.70% through 2034.

Based on accommodation type, the resorts segment is anticipated to account for a share of 40.40% in 2024.

Based on booking mode, the online segment is expected to acquire a share of 59.40% in 2024.

Planning For Success in the Competitive Short-term Vacation Rental Market

The short-term vacation rental market is characterized by the presence of limited established players and new entrants. Various players are raising their focus on emerging trends of short-term vacation rentals. Additionally, industry players are differentiating their service offerings to uplift their industry share. Mentioned below are the latest developments in the short-term vacation rental market:

In May 2023, MakeMyTrip Pvt. Ltd., which is a short-term vacation rental firm, announced that it collaborated with Microsoft over the introduction of voice-assisted booking. The company boosted its access to travel planning by launching voice-assisted booking in Indian languages. Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service and Azure Cognitive Services were used to offer a technology stack that provides personalized travel recommendations. The partnership aims to make travel planning more inclusive.

In January 2023, Interhome Group, which is an entirely owned subsidiary of Hotelplan Group, expanded its market reach to Denmark via a strategic relationship with a Danish vacation rental broker, Sol og Strand. The latter offers 6,000+ vacation flats and homes.

Purchase this report now to get key companies with their Revenue Forecast, Volume Forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, Trends, and Pricing Analysis.

About the Author:

Ronak Shah (Associate Vice President at Future Market Insights) is deeply committed to uncovering actionable insights for consumer and food and beverage players. She brings a unique blend of analysis, industry trends, and consumer behavior to put data into perspective.

What she makes out of data becomes a delight to read. She has authored many opinions, including for publications like Process Industry Informer and Spinal Surgery News, as she understands the market pulse and consumers' shifting preferences.

She likes to bring experts to a roundtable to weigh the impact of a trend on an industry. Catch up with her discussion on the impact of AI in packaging.

Explore FMI's Extensive Coverage in the Travel and Tourism Domain:

The global vacation rentals market is estimated at US$ 74.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach US$ 132.7 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2023 to 2033. - Review and Request the Sample .

is estimated at US$ 74.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach US$ 132.7 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2023 to 2033. - The global vacation rental website market is poised to experience significant growth, with a valuation of US$ 1,482.6 Million in 2022. Driven by a robust CAGR of 12.1%, the market is projected to reach a value of US$ 4,640.2 Million by 2032. - Review and Request the Sample .

is poised to experience significant growth, with a valuation of US$ 1,482.6 Million in 2022. Driven by a robust CAGR of 12.1%, the market is projected to reach a value of US$ 4,640.2 Million by 2032. - The poshtels market is estimated at US$ 200.0 million in 2023 and is projected to reach US$ 358.17 million by 2033, at a CAGR of 6.0% from 2023 to 2033. - Review and Request the Sample .

is estimated at US$ 200.0 million in 2023 and is projected to reach US$ 358.17 million by 2033, at a CAGR of 6.0% from 2023 to 2033. - The global tourism industry and big data analytics market , valued at US$ 225.4 billion in 2023, is projected to witness significant growth, reaching a value of US$ 486.6 billion by 2033, driven by a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8% from 2023 to 2033. - Review and Request the Sample .

, valued at US$ 225.4 billion in 2023, is projected to witness significant growth, reaching a value of US$ 486.6 billion by 2033, driven by a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8% from 2023 to 2033. - The Colombia agro-tourism market is expected to witness significant growth in the coming years. In 2022, the market value was estimated at US$ 3.7 billion, and it is projected to reach US$ 4.1 billion in 2023. By 2033, the market is anticipated to reach a value of US$ 7.2 billion, driven by a steady compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% from 2023 to 2033. - Review and Request the Sample .

is expected to witness significant growth in the coming years. In 2022, the market value was estimated at US$ 3.7 billion, and it is projected to reach US$ 4.1 billion in 2023. By 2033, the market is anticipated to reach a value of US$ 7.2 billion, driven by a steady compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% from 2023 to 2033. - Egypt's faith-based tourism market is on track for significant growth, with a market value of US$ 1.2 billion in 2022 and a projected value of US$ 3.67 billion by 2033. This growth is expected to be driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.7% from 2023 to 2033. - Review and Request the Sample .

is on track for significant growth, with a market value of US$ 1.2 billion in 2022 and a projected value of US$ 3.67 billion by 2033. This growth is expected to be driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.7% from 2023 to 2033. - The incentive tourism market is expected to flourish at an average CAGR of 5.8% between 2023 and 2033. The market is expected to hold a market share of US$ 13.69 billion by 2033, while the market is likely to reach a value of US$ 7.79 billion in 2023. - Review and Request the Sample .

is expected to flourish at an average CAGR of 5.8% between 2023 and 2033. The market is expected to hold a market share of US$ 13.69 billion by 2033, while the market is likely to reach a value of US$ 7.79 billion in 2023. - The global mountain and ski resorts market is poised for significant expansion, valued at US$ 15.8 billion in 2023 and projected to reach a staggering US$ 50.4 billion by 2033. This remarkable growth is anticipated by a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.3% from 2023 to 2033. - Review and Request the Sample .

is poised for significant expansion, valued at US$ 15.8 billion in 2023 and projected to reach a staggering US$ 50.4 billion by 2033. This remarkable growth is anticipated by a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.3% from 2023 to 2033. - The India faith based tourism market size is estimated at US$ 1,025.57 million in 2023 at a CAGR of 16.2% from 2023 to 2033. Indian faith-based tourism market share in its parent market is about 6%-11%. - Review and Request the Sample .

size is estimated at US$ 1,025.57 million in 2023 at a CAGR of 16.2% from 2023 to 2033. Indian faith-based tourism market share in its parent market is about 6%-11%. - Japan's outbound tourism landscape is poised for significant growth over the next decade, with a projected CAGR of 27.1%. The ecosystem value is expected to surge from US$ 5,271.0 million in 2023 to US$ 57,856.2 million by 2033. This remarkable expansion is fueled by a robust outbound tourism revenue stream, valued at US$ 3,670.0 million at the end of 2022. - Review and Request the Sample.

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Oscillate Plc - Director/PDMR Shareholding

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, December 06

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED WITHIN THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS DEEMED BY THE COMPANY TO CONSTITUTE INSIDE INFORMATION AS STIPULATED UNDER THE MARKET ABUSE REGULATION (EU) NO. 596/2014, AS AMENDED ("MAR"). ON THE PUBLICATION OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT VIA A REGULATORY INFORMATION SERVICE, THIS INSIDE INFORMATION IS NOW CONSIDERED TO BE IN THE PUBLIC DOMAIN.

Oscillate Plc

AQSE: MUSH

("Oscillate" or the "Company")

DIRECTOR'S SHARE DEALING

The Company announces that on 4 December 2023, Stephen Winfield, non-executive director of the Company, purchased 1,000,000 ordinary shares in the Company at 0.5 pence per share.

Following the above purchase, Mr Winfield owns 1,000,000 ordinary shares, representing approximately 0.47% of the issued share capital of the Company.

The Directors of the Company accept responsibility for the contents of this announcement.

Enquiries

Company:

John Treacy

ir@oscillateplc.com

https://oscillateplc.com

Corporate Adviser:

Peterhouse Capital Limited

Guy Miller & Heena Karani

Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7220 9796
Ten international funding agencies will contribute to the construction of the gigantic particle detectors a mile underground for the Fermilab-hosted Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment.

Batavia, Illinois, Dec. 06, 2023- also known as DUNE - is an international mega science experiment that will use enormous particle detectors to study the behavior of neutrinos, which might indicate why we live in a matter-dominated universe.

The DUNE collaboration, representing scientists from dozens of countries around the world, will contribute to the construction of detectors at two sites in the United States: one at the U.S. Department of Energy's Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, the host lab for DUNE, 40 miles west of Chicago, and the other at the Sanford Underground Research Laboratory (SURF) in Lead, South Dakota.

On Nov. 17, representatives of funding agencies from five countries signed a memorandum of understanding, affirming their commitment to contribute to the construction of components for DUNE. Director Lia Merminga signed on behalf of Fermilab.

"DUNE will help answer some of the biggest questions in the universe and has the potential to transform the field of neutrino physics. We are proud to host DUNE in the U.S. with major contributions from the project's international partners who offer their unique expertise," said Regina Rameika, DOE associate director for the Office of High Energy Physics. "Having the commitment from our international partners to contribute these vital components is an essential aspect of DUNE."

With their signatures, University of Campinas (Unicamp), Brazil, Institut National de Physique Nucleaire et de Physique des Particules (IN2P3), France, Istituto Nazionale Di Fisica Nucleare (INFN), Italy, University of Bern, Switzerland, and the Science and Technology Facilities Council/United Kingdom Research and Innovation (STFC/UKRI), United Kingdom, committed to contributing hardware to the two DUNE Far Detectors in South Dakota.

The Canadian Foundation for Innovation John R. Evans Leaders Fund and the Ontario Research Fund in Canada in addition to CERN in Switzerland also signed the memorandum of understanding remotely and will contribute to the DUNE Near Detector in Batavia, Illinois.

Signatures from agencies in the Czech Republic and Spain have been coordinated and will be finalized in the future.

In the memorandum of understanding for Far Detector 1, the United Kingdom and CERN agreed to contribute to anode plane assemblies; Brazil, the Czech Republic, Italy and Spain will contribute to the photon detection system; CERN will contribute to the high-voltage system; Canada, CERN and the U.K. will contribute to the data acquisition system; and Spain will contribute to the calibration and cryogenics instrumentation.

In the memorandum of understanding for Far Detector 2, CERN and France agreed to contribute to top drift electronics; Brazil, the Czech Republic, France, Italy and Spain will contribute to the photon detection system; France and CERN will contribute to the high-voltage system; Canada, CERN and the U.K. will contribute to the data acquisition system; Spain will contribute to the calibration and cryogenics instrumentation; and CERN and France will contribute to the charge readout planes.

Scientists and engineers from more than 35 countriesare partnering with Fermilab to design, build and analyze data from DUNE, which will be installed in the new Long-Baseline Neutrino Facility. Construction of LBNF has begun, and the excavation of the large caverns in Lead, South Dakota for the DUNE Far Detectors is more than 85% complete.



The DUNE collaborationcomprises more than 1,400 scientists and engineers from over 200 research institutions. Notably, CERN's commitment to LBNF and DUNE represents its first investment in infrastructure for a physics experiment outside of Europe. Several countries - France, India, Italy, Poland and the United Kingdom - also are making significant contributions to the Proton Improvement Plan II project , which includes the construction of the 215-meter-long superconducting particle accelerator at Fermilab that will power DUNE.

DUNE will be the world's most comprehensive experiment to study neutrinos: tiny, lightweight particles that permeate the universe but rarely interact with anything. DUNE will seek to determine whether neutrinos could be the reason the universe is made of matter; look for neutrinos emitted from exploding stars to learn more about the formation of neutron stars and black holes; and watch for a rare subatomic phenomenon that could elucidate the unification of nature's forces.

To pursue these science goals, DUNE will study neutrino oscillation, a phenomenon in which a neutrino's property, called flavor, changes as it travels. DUNE will probe this oscillation by shooting a beam of neutrinos 1,300 kilometers straight through the earth, from Fermilab's accelerator complex in Illinois, through the Near Detector to the Far Detectors located a mile underground at SURF in South Dakota.

The science of DUNE is a global endeavor, and the partnership with funding agencies, scientists and engineers from around the world makes it the first truly international mega science experiment to be hosted on U.S. soil. Additionally, hundreds of students from all corners of the earth will start their careers in science, engineering and computing on this project.

Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory is supported by the Office of Science of the U.S. Department of Energy. The Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, please visit science.energy.gov.

Attachment
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced several significant updates and changes for Tax Year 2023, impacting Forms 1099-K, 1099-DA, W-9, electronic filing requirements, and system cutover schedules. These updates are crucial for taxpayers, professionals, and entities to maintain compliance and prepare for the upcoming tax season.

ACA and 1099 System Cutover/Shutdown Schedules

ACA Production Cutover : The IRS's AIR Production cutover for Tax Year 2023 will commence on December 11, 2023, at 7:00 a.m. ET, affecting all Affordable Care Act (ACA) transmissions. The AIR Assurance Testing System (AATS) will also undergo maintenance during this period. Submissions for tax year 2022 or prior must be processed before this shutdown.

The IRS's AIR Production cutover for Tax Year 2023 will commence on December 11, 2023, at 7:00 a.m. ET, affecting all Affordable Care Act (ACA) transmissions. The AIR Assurance Testing System (AATS) will also undergo maintenance during this period. Submissions for tax year 2022 or prior must be processed before this shutdown. 1099 Production Shutdown : The IRIS Production environment will shut down for all 1099 transmissions, including corrections and replacements, starting December 06, 2023, at 12:00 a.m. Eastern Time. The IRIS AATS environment will remain available. Updates on the resumption of both systems will be communicated via the respective status pages and QuickAlerts bulletins.

IRS Form Updates and Threshold Adjustments

Electronic Filing Threshold : The threshold for mandatory electronic filing has been significantly reduced. Starting January 1, 2024, entities with 10 or more forms in total (including various form types like Form 1042-S, Form 1099 series, and Form W-2) will need to file electronically.

The threshold for mandatory electronic filing has been significantly reduced. Starting January 1, 2024, entities with 10 or more forms in total (including various form types like Form 1042-S, Form 1099 series, and Form W-2) will need to file electronically. Form W-9 : The October 2023 draft version of Form W-9 includes a new line for partnerships, trusts, or estates with foreign partners, owners, or beneficiaries. Updates also reflect changes in withholding and reporting rules under sections 1446(a) and (f) and the new Qualified Intermediary (QI) agreement effective from January 1, 2023.

The October 2023 draft version of Form W-9 includes a new line for partnerships, trusts, or estates with foreign partners, owners, or beneficiaries. Updates also reflect changes in withholding and reporting rules under sections 1446(a) and (f) and the new Qualified Intermediary (QI) agreement effective from January 1, 2023. Form 1099-K : The IRS has postponed the $600 reporting threshold implementation to Tax Year 2025, with a gradual transition starting in Tax Year 2023.

The IRS has postponed the $600 reporting threshold implementation to Tax Year 2025, with a gradual transition starting in Tax Year 2023. Form 1099-DA : The IRS introduced Form 1099-DA to report transactions involving sales and exchanges of digital assets, providing clarity and reporting consistency in the rapidly evolving digital asset landscape.

These updates mark significant changes in the IRS's approach to tax reporting and filing, especially concerning digital assets and electronic filing. Taxpayers and professionals are advised to familiarize themselves with these changes along with the IRS deadlines to ensure seamless compliance and avoid potential penalties.

About BoomTax

Located in Corpus Christi, Texas, BoomTax is a leading provider of tax compliance solutions, designed to streamline and enhance the tax reporting process for businesses. With a user-friendly interface, BoomTax supports a wide array of forms, including the Form 1099 series ( MISC , DIV , INT , NEC ), W-2 , 1095-B , 1095-C , and California Pay Data Reporting .

BoomTax delivers tailored solutions for each of these forms, aiding businesses in meeting their compliance obligations with precision and efficiency. By combining innovative technology and exceptional customer service, BoomTax is dedicated to simplifying the tax reporting process for businesses of all sizes.



Media Contact

Ken Ham: pr@boomtax.com

SOURCE: BoomTax

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/813689/irs-tax-updates-for-2024-system-schedules-and-crucial-changes-for-forms-and-filing
The sodium sulphate market is driven by surge in use of soaps and detergents. Sodium sulphate is used in the manufacturing of powdered detergents as it is easily available, neutral in nature, and also manages the weight of the product, making it economical to produce. With continuous product innovation, the demand for powder detergent is driven by rise in demand for liquid and gel-based detergents, which do not require fillers. This, affects the growth of the sodium sulphate market.

WILMINGTON, Del., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Sodium Sulphate Market by Product (Natural and Synthetic), Form (Salt Cake, Glauber's Salt, and Niter Cake), and Application (Soaps And Detergents, Textiles, Glass, Paper and Pulp, and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis And Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the sodium sulphate market was valued for $0.7 billion in 2022 and is estimated to reach $1.1 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.0% from 2023 to 2032.

The growth of the sodium sulphate market is driven by rise in demand for powdered detergents in emerging countries in Asia-Pacific and LAMEA, such as China, India, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand. This has created a high-volume demand for salt, and product formulations, in recent years. This is mainly attributed to the easy movement of sodium sulphate powders; which are also substrates that act as a filler in detergents. In addition, increase in adoption of products, due to macroeconomic growth and shift from hand to machine-based washing of clothes, is projected to increase the demand for sodium sulphate in soap & detergent formulations.

Download Sample Pages of Research Overview: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/9039

Prime determinants of growth

The global sodium sulphate market is driven by robust demand from various end-user industries. Sodium sulphate is used in the paper and pulp industry for the production of paper and paperboard. The demand for sodium sulphate is often linked to the growth of this industry, which, in turn, is influenced by factors such as packaging demand, economic development, and technological advancements. In the textile industry, sodium sulphate is used in dyeing processes. The textile industry's growth, influenced by fashion trends, consumer preferences, and economic conditions, is expected to impact the sodium sulphate market.

Sodium sulphate is used as a fining agent in the glass industry to remove impurities. The demand for sodium sulphate in this sector is linked to the overall growth of the glass manufacturing industry, which is influenced by construction activities, automotive production, and other factors. Thus, rise in demand for sodium sulphate from various industries boosts the growth of the market. However, availability of substitutes is expected to restrain the growth of the sodium sulphate market.

Report Coverage & Details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2032 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2022 $0.7 billion Market Size in 2032 $1.1 billion CAGR 4.0 % No. of Pages in Report 334 Segments covered Product, Form, Application, and Region. Drivers Surge in use in soaps and detergents Growing demand from various end-user industries Opportunities New application and market segment for products Green and sustainable initiatives Focus on high-purity grades Restraints Limited new uses of sodium sulphate Availability of substitutes

The natural segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period

By product, the natural segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, contributing to nearly three-fifths of the global sodium sulphate market revenue and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1%. As countries undergo industrialization and urbanization, the demand for products related to detergents, textiles, paper and pulp, and other industries that use natural sodium sulphate is expected to increase. Furthermore, the detergent industry is a significant consumer of sodium sulphate, using it as a key ingredient. As household and industrial cleaning product demands rise, so does the demand for natural sodium sulphate. In addition, natural sodium sulphate is considered environmentally friendly, and as sustainability becomes a more critical factor in product choices, industries might prefer using sodium sulphate over other chemicals in certain applications. These factors are expected to surge the demand for natural sodium sulphate; thus, fueling the growth of the sodium sulphate market during the forecast period.

Procure Complete Report (334 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures) @ https://bit.ly/47KmVpH

The salt cake segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period

By form, the salt cake segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, contributing to less than half of the global sodium sulphate market revenue and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3%. Salt cake, including sodium sulphate, is used as a raw material in the chemical industry. It may be utilized in the production of various sodium compounds, such as sodium sulfide and sodium carbonate, which have applications in different chemical processes. Furthermore, sodium sulphate, including that derived from salt cake, is commonly used in the textile industry for dyeing processes. The demand for sodium sulphate in this application is anticipated to increase as the textile industry continues to grow. In addition, sodium sulphate is used in the production of cleaning agents and detergents. The demand for household and industrial cleaning products could contribute to rise in demand for sodium sulphate. These factors are expected to boost the growth of the salt cake form of sodium sulphate; thus, fueling the growth of the sodium sulphate market.

The soaps and detergents segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period

Based on the application, the soaps and detergents segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, contributing to more than two-fifths of the global sodium sulphate market revenue and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.4%. There has been an overall increase in the demand for detergents, either due to population growth, increase in consumer awareness about hygiene, or changes in lifestyle. This is expected to lead to a higher demand for various detergent ingredients, including sodium sulphate. Furthermore, sodium sulphate is often used as a cost-effective filler or processing aid in detergent formulations. If manufacturers are looking for ways to optimize production costs without compromising product quality, the demand for sodium sulphate may increase.

In addition, industry trends and consumer preferences may lead to changes in detergent formulations. Shift towards formulations that include sodium sulphate for specific benefits, such as controlling viscosity or improving product stability, it could contribute to increase in demand. These factors are expected to surge the demand for sodium sulphate for soaps and detergents application; thus, fueling the market growth.

Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2032

Based on region, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for less than half of the global sodium sulphate market and is projected to register the highest CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period. The Asia-Pacific region, including countries such as China and India, is experiencing rapid industrialization and urbanization. This has led to increase in demand for products in sectors such as paper and pulp, detergents, textiles, and chemicals. Thereby driving the demand for sodium sulphate. Furthermore, the paper and pulp industry is a major consumer of sodium sulphate in the Asia-Pacific region. The growth of this industry, driven by packaging demand and economic development, contributes significantly to the sodium sulphate market.

Leading Market Players: -

ECOBAT TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED

GODAVARI BIOREFINERIES LTD.

ADITYA BIRLA CHEMICALS LIMITED.

BORDAN AND REMINGTON CORP.

INTERSAC

NIPPON CHEMICAL INDUSTRIAL CO. LTD.

ATUL LTD.

TCI CHEMICALS

LENZING AG

MERCK KGAA

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global sodium sulphate market. These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario.

Want to Access the Statistical Data and Graphs, Key Players' Strategies: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/sodium-sulfite-market/purchase-options



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About Us

Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain.

Pawan Kumar, the CEO of Allied Market Research, is leading the organization toward providing high-quality data and insights. 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. 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.



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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Inogen Alliance

Inogen Alliance is once again an official sponsor of the upcoming ninth-annual Global Water Stewardship Forum with the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS). The forum runs from 4-5 June 2024 in Edinburgh, Scotland. As an Alliance we are representing our global presence at this event with eight Associate co-sponsors including Anew Global Consulting, Antea Group USA, Antea Brasil, Chola MS Risk Services Limited (CMSRS) in India, HPC France, HPC Italy, Peter J. Ramsay & Associates in Australia, and Tonkin + Taylor in New Zealand; with our global water working group leader Beatrice Bizzaro.

According to Alliance for Water stewardship, this is a key event hosted by the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) which brings together businesses, NGOs and other stakeholders to share experiences, build knowledge and forge new directions through dialogue and global partnerships. Held annually in Edinburgh, Scotland, since 2016, it has become the must-attend event for the international water stewardship community.

We are proud to be sponsors among brands including Diageo, WWF, Astrazeneca, and Nutrien.

To learn more about the AWS Forum 2024 visit: https://a4ws.org/forum

Interactive sessions will focus on the below topics across the two-day event:

Water, climate and sustainable development Connecting water, climate and biodiversity action Creating connections and incentives for water stewardship through policy engagement

Water stewardship community Convergence within the water stewardship community Collective action in critical catchments

Alliance for Water Stewardship System AWS Standard Review & Revision AWS Assurance System updates Knowledge and learning from the best practice experiences



"At Inogen Alliance we have been supporting clients all over the world in developing and implementing water stewardship, with the aim of acting in alliance with the environmental and hydrogeological contexts in which companies and organizations are located. In our global Water Working Group, we currently have 37 colleagues from 17 countries which are part of the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) Professional Credentialing System for any implementers of the AWS Standard, a globally applicable and acclaimed framework which formalizes the achievement of water stewardship practices.' Beatrice Bizzaro, HPC Italy, Inogen Alliance global Water Working Group leader.

Have a look at the complete list of AWS credentialed implementers available here.

The AWS Global Water Forum is a unique opportunity to exchange water stewardship experiences with industry leaders and build connections with members of the wider global water stewardship community. This event has become a cornerstone annual global meeting for our water experts and clients to come together across geographic locations.

Pre-registration is open initially for AWS Members starting 4 December 2023, followed by non-Members in mid-January 2024. If you are interested, get your tickets early as this event has a history of selling out. Our global water team would love to see you in person at the AWS Forum in June!

If you are looking for support with your water stewardship strategies or AWS check out more on our global water services here.

Inogen Alliance is a global network made up of dozens of independent local businesses and over 6,000 consultants around the world who can help make your project a success. Our Associates collaborate closely to serve multinational corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, and we share knowledge and industry experience to provide the highest quality service to our clients. If you want to learn more about how you can work with Inogen Alliance, you can explore our Associates or Contact Us. Watch for more News & Blog updates here and follow us on LinkedIn.





View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Inogen Alliance on 3blmedia.com.



Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Inogen Alliance

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/inogen-alliance

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Inogen Alliance

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Top Five Conveyor Car Wash Company Expands Footprint in Florida, North Carolina, New York, and Tennessee

THOMASTON, GA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Tidal Wave Auto Spa, one of the nation's fastest-growing express car wash companies, opened four brand-new locations on Wednesday, December 6th, in St. Petersburg, FL, Wilmington, NC, Queensbury, NY, and Cordova, TN.









To celebrate the Grand Openings, each of the new Tidal Wave locations is offering eight days of free car washes from December 6-December 13. This limited-time promotion provides an opportunity for car owners living 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 at these locations will enjoy their first month of unlimited washes for only $9.97 - for savings up to $40.

"We're not just expanding our footprint with these new locations - we're transforming the way these communities experience car care," said founder and CEO Scott Blackstock. "Our conveyor car wash system makes getting a car wash easy, efficient, and enjoyable - plus, each of these new washes are built with our industry-leading technology to provide the shiniest car. From the Sunshine State to the Empire State and beyond, we're excited to redefine the car wash experience and look forward to providing customers with clean car happiness for years to come."

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. The company 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.

St. Petersburg, FL Location: 2600 34th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713

Nearby locations: Bradenton

Wilmington, NC Location: 8005 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28411

Nearby locations: Wilmington (Carolina Beach Rd)

Queensbury, NY Location: 708 Quaker Rd, Queensbury, NY 12804

Nearby locations: South Glens Falls

Cordova, TN Location: 1650 N Germantown Pkwy, Cordova, TN 38016

Nearby locations: Millington

Tidal Wave Auto Spa currently operates 14 Florida locations, 20 North Carolina locations, two New York locations, and 20 Tennessee locations, with plans for continued expansion in each state in the coming months. For additional information, including upcoming new locations, please visit: https://www.tidalwaveautospa.com/.

About Tidal Wave Auto Spa

Tidal 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 216 locations operating in 23 states across the South, Midwest, and Northern United 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 Information

Heather Coleman

Marketing Manager

media@tidalwaveautospa.com

Andrea Traylor

Senior Director of Digital Marketing

andrea.traylor@tidalwaveautospa.com

2058212220

SOURCE: Tidal Wave Auto Spa

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Finsbury Growth & Income Trust Plc - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, December 06

For immediate release

6 December 2023

FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC

(the "Company")

MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES

The Company announces that it has today purchased 98,460 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 833.87 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 25,615,646; 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 199,375,657.

The figure of 199,375,657 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
Summary: Harimau Mint Capital announces the groundbreaking integration of Crypto Wallet into its trading services in collaboration with cTrader, reshaping the financial landscape.

London, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - Harimau Mint Capital, leveraging technology provided by XHYRE LTD, proudly announces a significant advancement in its strategic focus. This innovative shift merges Forex and Cryptocurrency Trading domains. Launched recently with the renowned cTrader platform, this cutting-edge solution integrates a Crypto Wallet into the trading services. This integration offers customers unprecedented ease and flexibility in their trading activities.





Image Credits: Harimau Mint Capital

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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An improved partnership with cTrader, which improves the trading experience as a whole, and the addition of a Crypto Wallet to the trading services, which allows users to easily convert their funds between traditional Forex and cutting-edge cryptocurrencies, are key components of this strategic shift. All of these improvements work together to make trading easier and more enjoyable. Harimau Mint Capital will soon release a number of new features and products, including a Proprietary Trading Account, a Digital Gold Leverage Account, and a Versatile Debit Card (VISA and Mastercard) that connects easily to wallets.

By taking this step, Harimau Mint Capital is aligning itself with market leaders, who have already successfully integrated debit cards linking cryptocurrency wallets and regular bank accounts, to meet the rising demand for neobanks and digital banking solutions.

Furthermore, by combining financial technology with products generated from precious metals, Harimau Mint Capital is at the forefront of reinventing the financial environment, giving individuals and businesses the ability to take charge of their financial futures and make informed investment decisions.

Harimau Mint Capital is an example of reliability and innovation in the financial industry, with a mission to provide a diverse investment platform with expert support, transparency, and security to help clients achieve their financial goals with confidence. The company's vision is to empower individuals and organizations, and its mission is to assist clients in reaching their financial goals with confidence.

For more information, please visit - https://www.harimaumint.com/.

About Harimau Mint Capital

Harimau Mint Capital, utilizing technology from XHYRE LTD and based in London, UK, offers a diverse investing platform that blends financial technology with precious metal products. The firm holds a DMCC trade license for Proprietary Trading, E-NFT Marketplace, and Non-Manufactured Gold Trading in Dubai. Harimau Mint Capital's mission is to empower individuals and businesses to manage their wealth effectively by facilitating informed investment decisions.

Media Contact

Company: Harimau Mint Capital

Person: Nahid Sarwar

Email: support@harimaumint.com

Website: https://www.harimaumint.com/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/188636
PAREF announces today the signing of a corporate financing for a total amount of 90 Mn. This financing - composed of a 50 Mn loan with 5-year maturity and a confirmed undrawn credit line of 40 Mn with 4-year maturity - will enable the Group to refinance its debt and pursue its on-going and future development projects.

PAREF has opted for a sustainable financing in line with its convictions and its ESG strategy "Create More". This is a Sustainability-Linked Loan (SLL), with an ESG Framework based on Key Performance Indicators such as carbon emission reduction and asset labelling, as well as Sustainability Performance Targets over the financing period.

The ESG framework, assessed by EthiFinance, an independent rating agency with expertise in finance and sustainable development, is compliant with the principles of the Loan Market Association (LMA).

The Sustainability-Linked Loan is granted by HSBC Continental Europe, acting as Coordinator, Arranger, ESG Arranger and Agent, Credit Agricole Ile-de-France acting as Arranger et ESG Arranger, and Caisse d'Epargne Bretagne - Pays de Loire, assisted by their advisors Gide Loyrette Nouel and 14 Pyramides Notaires. PAREF is advised by Allen & Overy and Wargny Katz Notaires.

"We are delighted to announce the signing of this refinancing, which will enable PAREF Group to continue implementing its sustainable growth strategy in France and at European level. The choice of a sustainable financing is a concrete action following PAREF's ESG strategy, which is deployed across all activities and projects of the Group. We warmly thank our bank partners HSBC and Credit Agricole Ile-de-France for their renewed confidence, and Caisse d'Epargne Bretagne - Pays de Loire for their support, as well as all the counsels for their diligence in carrying out this important operation."

Jia Wang - Chief Financial Officer

Financial calendar

22 February 2024: 2023 Annual Results

About PAREF Group

PAREF is a leading European player in real estate management, with over 30 years of experience and the aim of being one of the market leaders in real estate management based on its proven expertise. Today, the Group operates in France, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland and provides services across the entire value chain of real estate investment: investment, fund management, renovation and development project management, asset management, and property management. This 360 approach enables it to offer integrated and tailor-made services to institutional and retail investors. The Group is committed to creating more value and sustainable growth and has put CSR concerns at the heart of its strategy.

As at June 30, 2023, PAREF Group manages over 3bn assets under management.

PAREF is a company listed on Euronext Paris, Compartment C, under ISIN FR0010263202 - Ticker PAR.

More information on www.paref.com

PRESS CONTACTS

PAREF Group

Samira Kadhi

+33 7 60 00 59 52

samira.kadhi@paref.com Citigate Dewe Rogerson

Yoann Besse / Marlene Brisset

+33 6 63 03 84 91 / +33 6 59 42 29 35

Paref@citigatedewerogerson.com

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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Acre

By Gurmeet Chopra

Low staffing levels in the natural environment sector is threatening climate crisis targets, according to a new study.

The survey, conducted by trade union Prospect, which supports and represents scientists, engineers, tech experts and other specialist roles, has unveiled new findings which revealed members' concerns about working in nature and environmental roles.

The sector, which plays a vital role in delivering on the government's net zero and nature commitment, is suffering due to the reduction of expert staffing in the past 12 months.

More than 500 professionals took part in the survey, from a broad range of organisations including National Trust, Natural England, the Joint Nature Conservation Committee, and the Environment Agency. Several devolved bodies in Scotland and Wales, which are all prominent Prospect branches, also took part in the research.

More than 40 per cent of workers reported that expert staffing levels had been cut back in the last year, with more than two-thirds believing staff numbers overall were too low and half reported vacancies within their teams.

The negative impact of this is increased workloads for staff, with tasks also being assigned to untrained staff.

What are the main survey highlights?

Low pay

Despite the roles requiring a certain level of skill, around 38 per cent of respondents earn 30,000 or less while 35 per cent earn between 30,000 and 40,000. The survey also revealed more women are affected by low pay in the sector

Environmental preservation challenges

Government policy is the main obstacle to achieving net zero and protecting the natural environment, according to 37 per cent of those who took part in the study. 27 per cent believed economic factors play a key role and 16 per cent cited behaviours and reluctance to change as other issues that need addressing.

Challenges in the last 12 months

Some 57 per cent of respondents said changes in job roles (leading to increased administration) have played a big part, while 42 per cent said reduced expert staff and tasks being assigned to untrained staff (36 per cent) have caused problems within the sector. Increased workloads and staff turnover have also become problematic.

Staffing concerns

A staggering 69 per cent noted staff levels were too low with 52 per cent highlighting vacancies in their team. Despite this, 52 per cent of respondents have seen a reduced level of specialist personnel and a lack of leadership by senior management.

Sue Ferns, Senior Deputy General Secretary of Prospect, said: "The insights provided by our expert members are invaluable to understanding what is happening on the front line of the fight to tackle the climate crisis.

"They are telling us that the paring back of expert roles in their teams is leaving them increasingly burnt out.

"Despite the government talking up the potential of green jobs, it is failing to put in place the funding needed to make working in the natural environment the aspirational career that it should be."

Gurmeet Chopra, Consultant - Sustainable Business at Acre UK, said: "These findings are very concerning, particularly at a time when exceptional talent is required to drive forward solutions to align with the climate agenda.

"The sector needs a diverse mix of experts - individuals who can hone their skills and collaborate with the rest of the team to unpack the challenges surrounding the natural environment, but lack of funding remains a key stumbling block.

"The government must find a way to boost this sector which plays a crucial role in mitigating the climate emergency before it is too late."

About Acre

At Acre, we work with the most aspirational businesses with potential to make real change; from those who are just starting out to those who are well on the journey to crafting a legacy.

Our 18 years' experience in sustainability recruitment, combined with our extensive global network, enables us to provide talent solutions that are designed to deliver this change.

Through our unique behavioural assessment technology, we understand the types of people, skills and behaviours required to create impact. We can develop these qualities within your existing teams too.

We find talented people and develop their skills to ensure they make a true impact in ambitious, progressive organisations.

Acre. Making companies ready for tomorrow.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Acre on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Acre

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/acre

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Acre

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/814031/low-talent-levels-threatening-climate-crisis-targets
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd. (LONGi), a global leader in solar technology, today announced its new "Zero-Carbon Life Plan for Pandas" aimed at preserving biodiversity in China's Qinling Mountains. The plan includes a new partnership agreement with Shaanxi Foping National Nature Reserve and will focus on supporting panda conservation efforts at the reserve.

"As a leader in sustainable development through clean energy, LONGi is committed to exploring innovative ways we can use our technology to support environmental protection," said Li Zhenguo, Founder and President of LONGi. "This special initiative is a great example of how LONGi is collaborating with new partners to realize our vision of a zero-carbon world while also supporting conservation efforts for one of China's national treasures: the panda."

As a part of the agreement, LONGi will donate solar power plant with its latest module product of Hi-MO X6 for the nature reserve's facilities to provide clean energy for scientists and researchers in support of their important conservation efforts. The "Panda Power Plant" will harness the sun's energy to contribute to sustainable energy generation for the Foping National Nature Reserve. LONGi will also adopt its own "HiMO Panda" to show how scientists and researchers are leveraging solar power to care for the panda over the course of its life.

"We are incredibly grateful to have a new partnership with LONGi to begin transforming our national nature reserve to become carbon neutral," said Dang Gaodi, Senior Engineer at Shaanxi Foping National Nature Reserve. "This is a great example of how NGOs and the Private Sector can come together to leverage different strengths to achieve a common goal."

The "Zero-Carbon Life Plan for Pandas" also aligns with other global efforts to promote sustainable development. In particular, the "Zero-Carbon Life Plan" was created with the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals in mind, specifically the goal 15 "Life on Land," which aims to protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.

"LONGi is committed to being a leader not only in the clean energy space but also in promoting environmental protection," said Jiang Dongyu, Vice President of Distributed Business Group of LONGi. "We hope that through investments like the one we are making with the Shaanxi Foping National Nature Reserve, we can open the door to more possible partnerships with NGOs and researchers to show how solar technology can support biodiversity conservation around the world."

About LONGi

Founded in 2000, LONGi is committed to being the world's leading solar technology company, focusing on customer-driven value creation for full scenario energy transformation.

Under its mission of 'making the best of solar energy to build a green world', LONGi has dedicated itself to technology innovation and established five business sectors, covering mono silicon wafers cells and modules, commercial & industrial distributed solar solutions, green energy solutions and hydrogen equipment. The company has honed its capabilities to provide green energy and has more recently, also embraced green hydrogen products and solutions to support global zero carbon development. www.longi.com

About Shaanxi Foping National Nature Reserve

The Shaanxi Foping National Nature Reserve (FPNR) was established in 1978. The reserve is located in the northwest of Foping County, the southern foot of the middle Qinling Mountains, with a forest coverage rate of more than 98.0%, which is a forest and wildlife type reserve mainly for the protection of giant pandas. It has also been listed as the national popular science education base for teenagers and the field teaching experimental base of Shaanxi Normal University. It has carried out multi-level and multi-directional cooperation with many research units.

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/longi-expands-environmental-protection-efforts-with-program-to-make-panda-conservation-carbon-neutral-302008038.html
San Diego, California--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - Direct Communication Solutions, Inc. (OTCQX: DCSX) (CSE: DCSI) (FSE: 7QU0) ("DCS" or the "Company"), a leading provider of information technology solutions for the Internet of Things (IoT) market, is pleased to announce its participation in the Wialon Global Telematics Conference in Vilnius Lithuania, in recognition of our outstanding performance in continuing to grow our subscriber base in the telematics market in North America. DCS continues to demonstrate excellence and innovation in the telematics sector and has been ranked #7 in North America, which includes the United States, Canada and Mexico markets.

The Wialon Global Telematics Conference, renowned for bringing together top industry players and fostering collaboration, will provide DCS with a platform to showcase their expertise, share insights, and engage in discussions that will shape the future of the telematics industry.

CEO of Direct Communication Solutions Chris Bursey, expressed gratitude for the invitation, "Being recognized as the #7 top partner in North America is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. We are excited to participate in the Wialon Global Telematics Conference and contribute to the advancements in the industry."

Upcoming AMG Information

Direct Communication Solutions wishes to inform stakeholders of our upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Monday, December 11, 2023, at 10 AM PST at 11021 Frontera, Suite C, San Diego, California, 92127.

We seek Safe Harbor.

About Direct Communication Services Inc.

DCSI is a technology solutions integrator focusing on connecting the Internet of Things. We provide real solutions that solve real problems. Our software applications and scalable cloud services collect and assess business-critical data from all types of assets. DCSI is headquartered in San Diego, California and is publicly traded on the OTCQX ("DCSX"), Canadian Securities Exchange ("DCSI") and Frankfurt Stock Exchange ("7QU0"). For more information, visit www.dcsbusiness.com. DCSI and the DCSI logo are among the trademarks of DCSI in the United States. Any other trademarks or trade names mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

Contact

Chris Bursey, CEO

cbursey@dcsbusiness.com

858-525-2483

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements reflecting management's current views of future events and operations. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions, subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause results to differ materially. DCS believes that these potential risks and uncertainties include, without limitation: the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Company's dependence on third-party manufacturers, suppliers, technologies, and infrastructure; risks related to intellectual property; industry risks, including competition, online security, government regulation, and global economic conditions; and the Company's financial position and need for additional funding. Statements in this release should be evaluated in light of these factors. These risk factors and other important factors that could affect our business and financial results are discussed in our Management's Discussion and Analysis, periodic reports, and other public filings available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and posted with the OTC Disclosure and News Service. DCS undertakes no duty to update or revise any forward-looking statements.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/190132
AMSTERDAM, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- An amateur sim racer makes headlines by achieving the unthinkable: defeating the three-time F1 World Champion Max Verstappen in an exhilarating twist at the Heineken Player 0.0 finale. This global showdown, amidst the historic walls of Heineken's first brewery in Amsterdam, marks a new era for sim racing.

The Heineken Player 0.0 campaign, is an exciting gaming initiative that Heineken and Verstappen developed, to create a new virtual racing experience for fans culminated in winning gamers getting to race against Max himself.

The Player 0.0 initiative is part of Heineken's global responsible consumption platform, When You Drive, Never Drink, which was conceived to champion responsible consumption, expanding to new audiences in the world of virtual racing. Underscoring that the best drivers are those who choose not to drink. In a gripping 14-lap battle at the sim racing Zandvoort circuit, the amateurs' razor-thin victory margin electrified the audience, highlighting the campaign's competitive spirit.

The global showdown featured fierce competitors; being the local winners from tournaments held in Canada, Brazil, Mexico, and the Netherlands, all culminating in a tense finale against Verstappen. Yet, in a stunning display of tenacity, it was Floris Wijers, an amateur racer from The Netherlands who seized the spotlight, proving that determination and skill know no bounds.

Rob van Griensven, Director Global Digital Heineken - "The win for the amateur racer today at the Player 0.0 final is more than just a victory; it's a perfect showcase of our campaign's spirit. It blends global racing talent with our message of responsible consumption which has made this campaign a global success. We're excited about how this sets the stage for next season, promising even more thrilling experiences for fans and a continued emphasis on enjoying responsibly"

Verstappen shared, ""Competing against such passionate racers was a unique opportunity to share my passion for the sport with race fans. It's inspiring to see how Player 0.0 brings together diverse talents united by a commitment to safe driving, and hopefully will be an inspiration for anyone looking to get into racing."

As the 2023 sim racing season concludes on a high note, Heineken sets the stage for an even more thrilling 2024 season. Expanding Player 0.0's global footprint and reinforcing its commitment to promoting responsible consumption through innovative platforms, while leveraging its motorsports partnerships on a global scale.

Since entering the world of motorsport in 2016, Heineken has been committed to real change around attitudes towards drink driving and re-launched their 'When You Drive, Never Drink' campaign back in May 2022. Heineken will continue to innovate through their marketing campaigns with F1, with their 2023 'When You Drive, Never Drink' creative 'The Best Driver' launching earlier this year. On top of this, Heineken has committed to investing 10%+ of all media budgets to support responsible consumption programmes.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2294838/Heineken_1.jpg

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/amateur-racer-stuns-in-victory-over-three-time-f1-world-champion-max-verstappen-in-heinekens-global-player-0-0-thrilling-finale-302008129.html
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - Vatic Ventures Corp. (the "Company" or "Vatic") (TSXV: VCV) (FSE: V8V) (OTCQB: VCVVF) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a share purchase agreement with arms length vendors (the "Optionors") to acquire, subject to TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") approval, a 100% interest in a private company which holds an option to acquire a highly prospective hard rock lithium property ("Solonopole South"). The property hosts multiple extensive lithium bearing pegmatite dykes that recently returned initial grab samples of 5.03% Li2O, 3.72% Li2O and 3.41% Li2O.





Figure 1. Grab Samples from Vatic's Solonopole South Lithium Property



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3972/190044_13c0830314f78a71_001full.jpg

The Solonopole South Lithium Property consists of 4 claim blocks covering 4,813.57 hectares. The property is located in the coastal state of Ceara in Northeast Brazil, 40 km from the city of Solonopole in a known pegmatite mining district. Vatic's Solonopole South Property is also located approximately 30 km Southeast of Oceana Lithium Limited's ("OCN" - ASX) property. Oceana Lithium Limited's recent sampling returned up to 9.89% Li2O as well as over 1% Ta, 1% Nb, over 1000 ppm Tin, and over 2.5% Be.





Figure 2. Solonopole South Lithium Property Location



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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The initial 2023 exploration program completed by the former property owner revealed multiple long and wide pegmatite dykes that measure up to 30 meters in width and up to 300 meters in length that are largely unexplored.

Vatic is planning an upcoming work program that will include GPS sample site controls for overburden stripping, mapping, channel sampling and trenching.

Vatic is in the process of engaging sampling crews and is working with local Brazil based geological consultants to help plan a follow up drilling program to evaluate the priority targets.

ABOUT THE SOLONOPOLE SOUTH LITHIUM PROPERTY

The Solonopole South Property covers historic artisanal mining sites previously mined for lithium, coltan (tantalum and niobium) and tin.

Initial sampling of the Solonopole South Pegmatites returned Spodumene bearing pegmatite samples that graded up to 5.03% Li2O.

Planned Sampling will assay for Rare Earth Elements, Critical Battery Metals as well as lithium.

Ideal project location - Historical lithium mining region in Brazil.

Approximately 4-hour drive on paved roads to port (Fortaleza).

The topography, land use and vegetation at Solonopole is well suited for exploration activities.

Arid, sparsely populated farmland, no rain forest.

Northern Brazil provides easy shipping routes to North American and European battery chemical markets.

TERMS OF THE AGREEMENT

The Company will, subject to TSXV approval, acquire all of the outstanding common shares of 1432714 BC Ltd. (the "1432714 Shares") by issuing 6,000,000 common shares of the Company ("Vatic Shares") to the shareholders of 1432714 BC Ltd. at a deemed price of $0.08 per Vatic Share.

The Vatic Shares will be subject to a hold period expiring four months and one day from the date of issuance and may also be subject to the provisions of an escrow agreement pursuant to the policies of the TSXV.

1432714 BC Ltd. acquired, pursuant to a letter of intent dated August 21, 2023 (the "LOI"), the right to acquire the Solonopole South property from the owner (the "Underlying Owner") by completing the following:

a) paying to the Underlying Owner US$40,000 (the "Initial Payment") by February 24, 2024 (the "Initial Payment Date");

b) paying to the Underlying Owner US$137,500 and causing to be issued to the Underlying Owner US$137,500 worth of shares of a publicly traded company within twelve months of the Initial Payment Date;

c) paying to the Underlying Owner US$300,000 and causing to be issued to the Underlying Owner US$300,000 worth of shares of a publicly traded company within twenty-four months of the Initial Payment Date; and

d) paying to the Underlying Owner US$562,500 and causing to be issued to the Underlying Owner US$562,500 worth of shares of a publicly traded company within thirty-six months of the Initial Payment Date.

1432714 BC Ltd. will, upon issuance of the Vatic Shares, become a wholly owned subsidiary of Vatic. The Company anticipates this to be filed with the TSXV on an expedited transaction basis. No finder's fees will be payable in connection with this arms length transaction.

QUALIFIED PERSON

The technical content in this release has been reviewed and approved by Mitchell E. Lavery, P.Geo, who is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. The Company's QP has not verified the technical and scientific information from neighboring projects and has relied on the information provided on the individual corporations' websites.

ABOUT VATIC VENTURES CORP.

In addition to this recent acquisition of the Solonopole South Lithium Property, the Company has a 100% interest in the Hansen gold property in the Chapais area of Northern Quebec which is strategically located in a very active and emerging gold exploration area with over 6.7 million ounces of gold produced in the greater Chibougamau district. The Company also has an option to acquire a 100% interest in a Rare Earth Elements (REE) and polymetallic property known as the Sisters Mountain critical metals project located in Southwestern New Brunswick.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF VATIC VENTURES CORP.

"Loren Currie"

Loren Currie

CEO & Director

info@vaticventures.com

604-757-9792

Website: www.vaticventures.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." The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/190044
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - Blue Thunder Mining Inc. (TSXV: BLUE) ("Blue Thunder" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the closing of an initial tranche of the hard dollar component of its non-brokered private placement on December 5, 2023 which was initially announced on November 13, 2023 (the "Placement"). All dollar amounts are in Canadian funds.

Dorian L. (Dusty) Nicol, CEO of Blue Thunder, commented, "We are pleased to close this component of a major and transformative transaction for the Company. We look forward to working with the IAMGOLD ("IMG") team to advance our Muus project in Chibougamau, Quebec, which is adjacent to, and on trend with, IMG's 5-million-ounce Nelligan Gold project. IMG's in-depth knowledge of the district will be invaluable in advancing our exploration efforts at Muus as well as on other projects that may be acquired in due course. We also take this opportunity to congratulate IMG and Vanstar Mining on their recent announcement that IMG is acquiring Vanstar and thereby will own 100% of the Nelligan project."

Hard Dollar Closing

Pursuant to the first tranche closing of the hard dollar component of the Placement, the Company has issued a total of 12,342,856 common shares ("HD Shares") at a price of $0.07 per HD Share for aggregate proceeds of $864,000. The proceeds of the hard dollar component of the Private Placement will be used for further exploration of the Company's Muus Gold Project and for general corporate purposes.

IAMGOLD acquired 7,142,857 HD Shares and now holds approximately 14.5% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Blue Thunder. As per the investor rights agreement with the Company described in the Company's November 13, 2023, press release. IAMGOLD has the right to nominate one director to the Company's board and to participate in future financings as long as IAMGOLD continues to hold at least 10% of the Company's shares. IAMGOLD has agreed not to sell any of the HD Shares it purchases in the Private Placement for a period of 12 months from closing.

Chad Williams, Non-Executive Chairman of Blue Thunder, acquired 1,628,571 HD Shares on closing for total gross proceeds to the Company of $114,000. His participation in the Offering is a "related party transaction" pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company is relying on the exemption from minority shareholder approval requirements under MI 61-101, as the fair market value of Mr. Williams' participation in the Offering does not exceed 25% of the market capitalization of the Company.

The HD Shares are subject to a four-month resale hold period which ends on April 05, 2024.

Flow Through

The flow-through component of the Placement involves the sale of up to 3,333,333 flow-through shares (each a "FT Share") at a price of $0.075 per FT Share for aggregate proceeds of up to $250,000. The proceeds from the flow-through offering will be used to fund exploration programs on one or more of the Company's exploration properties located in Quebec that will qualify as "Canadian Exploration Expenses" and once renounced, "flow-through mining expenditures", as those terms are defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada). The flow through component is targeted to close on or about December 15, 2023.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

About Blue Thunder

Blue Thunder is an exploration company that owns 100% of a large land position near Chibougamau, Quebec. The Muus Gold project covers approximately 25,250 hectares of prospective ground in the eastern part of the Abitibi Greenstone Belt. The Muus Project is prospective for gold mineralization and is adjacent to and on strike with Iamgold's 5-million-ounce Nelligan gold project. Field work completed during 2022 established that the northern portion of the Muus Project is also prospective for copper-gold volcanogenic massive sulphide mineralization.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Dorian L. (Dusty) Nicol, CEO & Director

For more information, please visit our website www.bluethundermining.com, or contact Mr. Dorian L. (Dusty) Nicol, dusty@bluethundermining.com (647) 848-1009.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding the anticipated content, commencement, anticipated exploration program results, the ability to complete future financings, the ability to complete the required permitting, the ability to complete the exploration program and drilling, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, the state of the financial markets for the Company's equity securities, the state of the commodity markets generally, variations in the nature, the analytical results from surface trenching and sampling program, including diamond drilling programs, the results of IP surveying, the results of soil and till sampling program. the quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located, variations in the market price of any mineral products the Company may produce or plan to produce, the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required, including TSX Venture Exchange acceptance, for its planned activities, the inability of the Company to produce minerals from its properties successfully or profitably, to continue its projected growth, to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies, the potential impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus) on the Company's exploration program and on the Company's general business, operations and financial condition, and other risks and uncertainties. All of the Company's Canadian public disclosure filings may be accessed via www.sedarplus.ca and readers are urged to review these materials, including the technical reports filed with respect to the Company's mineral properties. This news release contains information with respect to adjacent or similar mineral properties in the Chibougamau District in respect of which the Company has no interest or rights to explore or mine. Readers are cautioned that the Company has no interest in or right to acquire any interest in any such properties, and that mineral deposits, and the results of any mining thereof, on adjacent or similar properties, are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties or any potential exploitation thereof.



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The total metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer market size in the 7MM was estimated to be nearly USD 2.1 billion in 2022. The market size of the metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer market is anticipated to change in the coming years owing to the rise in the number of patients, emergence of therapies, and increase in no. of companies taking an interest in the development of specific drugs for mCSPC along with increasing awareness.

LAS VEGAS, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DelveInsight's Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Market Insights report includes a comprehensive understanding of current treatment practices, mCSPC emerging drugs, market share of individual therapies, and current and forecasted market size from 2019 to 2032, segmented into 7MM [the United States, the EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom, and Japan].

Key Takeaways from the Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Market Report

In 2022, the United States held the highest mCSPC market share in the 7MM, at 61% , respectively, followed by the EU4 countries and the UK.

, respectively, followed by the EU4 countries and the UK. As per DelveInsight estimates, in 2022, the total diagnosed prevalent cases of metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer were around 100K in the 7MM. These cases are expected to increase by 2032.

in the 7MM. These cases are expected to increase by 2032. Leading metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer companies such as Myovant Sciences, Pfizer, Bayer, Orion, Novartis, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Janssen, Merck, Eli Lilly , and others are developing novel mCSPC drugs that are expected to be available in the mCSPC market in the coming years.

, and others are developing novel mCSPC drugs that are expected to be available in the mCSPC market in the coming years. The promising metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer therapies in the pipeline include NUBEQA, PLUVICTO, Capivasertib, TALZENNA, AKEEGA, VERZENIO, and others.

and others. The landscape of mHSPC has evolved tremendously in the past decades. The treatment paradigm has shifted from androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) alone to doublet combinations comprising ADT with docetaxel or an androgen receptor inhibitor, and now triplet therapy involving all three classes of agents.

involving all three classes of agents. Apart from XTANDI, ZYTIGA, ERLEADA, and ORGOVYX in the mCSPC market, Bayer's NUBEQA is another rising contender with a strong uptake in a short period. Bayer is further strategizing to increase the prescription by volume for NUBEQA by label expansion in patients who are not eligible for chemotherapy in the ARANOTE Phase III trial. Approval in mHSPC has proved to be an inflection point in NUBEQA's prescription uptake. Given the step up in the prescription trend, NUBEQA has already surpassed all expectations in the year 2022. This momentum is going to continue on the back of doublet approval based on the ARANOTE study.

Discover which therapies are expected to grab the major mCSPC market share @ Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Market Report

Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Epidemiology

65-74 years age group, accounted for the highest number of mCSPC cases in 2022 in the US, as per DelveInsight analysi. Among EU4 countries, Germany accounted for the highest cases of mCSPC while Spain accounted for the lowest number of cases in 2022.

The mCSPC market report proffers epidemiological analysis for the study period 2019-2032 in the 7MM segmented into:

Total Prevalent Cases of Prostate Cancer

Total Diagnosed Cases of Prostate Cancer

Age-Specific Cases of Prostate Cancer

Total Diagnosed Cases of Prostate Cancer by Clinical Stages

Total Metastatic Cases of CSPC

Total Treated Cases of mCSPC

Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Treatment Market

mCSPC, commonly known as mHSPC in the literature, denotes prostate cancer that remains responsive to testosterone suppression therapy. Patients with newly diagnosed metastatic disease and high-risk characteristics generally face a less favorable prognosis. In 2018, the combination of Zytiga (abiraterone acetate) and prednisone received approval for treating metastatic high-risk CSPC, based on findings from the Phase III LATITUDE trial. Zytiga had initially gained approval in 2011 for patients with mCRPC who had undergone prior chemotherapy. The indication was later expanded in 2012 to include patients with mCRPC.

Furthermore, in September 2019, the US FDA sanctioned the use of Erleada for individuals diagnosed with mHSPC.This approval further solidifies Janssen's position in the prostate cancer drug market. Conversely, medications like Zytiga have encountered generic competition in recent years. The approval of Erleada for mCSPC introduces a hurdle to the sales growth of Zytiga, already contending with competitive challenges.

To know more about mCSPC treatment guidelines country-wise, visit @ Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Management

Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Pipeline Therapies and Key Companies

ORGOVYX (relugolix): Myovant Sciences/Pfizer

NUBEQA (darolutamide) + ADT: Bayer/Orion

NUBEQA (darolutamide) + ADT  docetaxel: Bayer/Orion

PLUVICTO (177Lu-PSMA-617) + SOC (ARDT + ADT): Novartis

Capivasertib + ZYTIGA (abiraterone): AstraZeneca

TALZENNA (talazoparib) + XTANDI (enzalutamide): Pfizer

AKEEGA (ZEJULA + abiraterone acetate + prednisone): Janssen/Merck/Tesaro (now a part of GlaxoSmithKline)

VERZENIO (abemaciclib) + abiraterone + prednisone: Eli Lilly and Company

Learn more about the FDA-approved drugs for mCSPC @ Drugs for mCSPC Treatment

Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Market Dynamics

The dynamics of the metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer are expected to change in the coming years. The drug pipeline for prostate cancer is robust, featuring an abundance of therapies in the late phase of development encompassing diverse drug classes like PARPi, PD-L1i, radioligand therapies, novel hormone therapies, and AKTi. However, in contrast to the dynamic landscape for mCRPC, the developmental pipeline for mCSPC has been relatively dry. After a period of inactivity, there has been a resurgence in research and development efforts within the mCSPC drug pipeline, aided by organizations such as the Prostate Cancer Foundation, Hormone, and Urology Care Foundation, working to enhance awareness of prostate cancer and its contributing factors.

In December 2020, the US FDA approved ORGOVYX (relugolix) for the mCSPC patient population, marking a significant milestone. This approval positions ORGOVYX as the fourth drug to be approved for mCSPC patients after ZYTIGA, ERLEADA, and XTANDI The triplet regimen including NUBEQA with the chemotherapy docetaxel, plus ADT also gained FDA approval for patients with mHSPC in August 2022. Unlike XTANDI and ERLEADA, which used ADT as the control arm, NUBEQA was added to a combination of ADT and docetaxel, a regimen recommended in treatment guidelines for mHSPC.

The landscape of mCSPC treatment has witnessed a dramatic shift driven by advances in upfront hormonal and chemo-hormonal therapy. PARP inhibitors such as AKEEGA and TALZENNA are also currently being evaluated in the mHSPC space alone and with ARIs with expected entries soon.

However, several factors may impede the growth of the mCSPC market. Among the current unmet needs in prostate cancer, the lack of therapeutic options for mCSPC, along with the imperative need to delay the onset of castration-resistant mHNPC, are the most pressing challenges. The unmet need in the imaging perspective is focused on detecting the early spread of cancer in high-risk individuals and people with recurrent disease. Despite mCSPC's high mortality rate, the majority of attention in the field of prostate cancer remains restricted to patients with mCRPC. The exact cause of prostate cancer is still unknown, leading to an unmet need to understand the condition's etiology.

Despite improvements in patient outcomes with novel treatment modalities, a substantial unmet need for therapies exhibiting enhanced efficacy and improved safety and tolerability persists. Therefore, the therapeutic management of newly diagnosed mHSPC presents an enormous commercial opportunity for drug developers. While most mCSPC cases cannot be cured by ADT and may progress to mCRPC, the treatment landscape of CSPC, once unevolved, is now characterized by several companies investigating novel therapies. Consequently, the forecast period may witness stiff competition among upcoming therapies striving to capture a significant share of the mCSPC patient pool.

mCSPC Market Report Metrics Details Study Period 2019-2032 Coverage 7MM [the United States, the EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom, and Japan]. Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Market CAGR 22 % Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Market Size in 2022 Around USD 2.1 billion Key Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Companies Myovant Sciences, Pfizer, Bayer, Orion, Novartis, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Janssen, Merck, Eli Lilly, and others Key Pipeline Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Therapies NUBEQA, PLUVICTO, Capivasertib, TALZENNA, AKEEGA, VERZENIO, and others

Scope of the Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Market Report

mCSPC Therapeutic Assessment: Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer current marketed and emerging therapies

Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer current marketed and emerging therapies Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Market Dynamics: Key Market Forecast Assumptions of Emerging Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Drugs and Market Outlook

Key Market Forecast Assumptions of Emerging Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Drugs and Market Outlook Competitive Intelligence Analysis: SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies

SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies Unmet Needs, KOL's views, Analyst's views, Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Market Access and Reimbursement

Discover more about mCSPC drugs in development @ Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Clinical Trials

Table of Contents

1 KEY INSIGHTS 2 REPORT INTRODUCTION 3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF PROSTATE CANCER 4 KEY EVENTS 5 EPIDEMIOLOGY AND MARKET FORECAST METHODOLOGY 6 PROSTATE CANCER MARKET OVERVIEW AT A GLANCE 6.1 MARKET SHARE (%) DISTRIBUTION OF mCSPC/mHSPC BY CLASS IN 2022 6.2 MARKET SHARE (%) DISTRIBUTION OF mCSPC/mHSPC BY CLASS IN 2032 7 DISEASE BACKGROUND AND OVERVIEW 7.1 SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF PROSTATE CANCER 7.2 EARLY SYMPTOMS OF PROSTATE CANCER 7.3 ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER SYMPTOMS 7.3.1 Recurrent Prostate Cancer Symptoms 7.4 RISK FACTORS AND CAUSES OF PROSTATE CANCER 7.5 PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF PROSTATE CANCER 7.6 PROSTATE NEOPLASIA 7.7 GENETICS OF PROSTATE CANCER 7.7.1 Somatic Copy Number Alteration 7.7.2 Structural Rearrangements 7.7.3 Point Mutations 7.7.4 Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) 7.8 DIAGNOSIS OF PROSTATE CANCER 7.8.1 Screening Tests for Prostate Cancer 7.8.2 Tests to Diagnose Prostate Cancer 7.8.3 Stages and Grades of Prostate Cancer 8 TREATMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF PROSTATE CANCER 8.1 TREATMENT ALGORITHM OF PROSTATE CANCER 8.2 OBSERVATION OR ACTIVE SURVEILLANCE 8.3 SURGERY 8.3.1 Open or Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy 8.3.2 Risks of Prostate Surgery 8.4 RADIATION THERAPY 8.4.1 Types of Radiation Therapy 8.5 HORMONE THERAPY 8.5.1 Types of Hormone Therapy 8.6 IMMUNOTHERAPY 8.6.1 Vaccine 8.6.2 Immune checkpoint inhibitors 8.7 CHEMOTHERAPY 9 TREATMENT GUIDELINES 9.1 GUIDELINES FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF PROSTATE CANCER (NATIONAL COMPREHENSIVE CANCER NETWORK, 2023) 9.2 EUROPEAN SOCIETY FOR MEDICAL ONCOLOGY (ESMO) TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PROSTATE CANCER 9.3 ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER: AUA/SUO GUIDELINE 9.4 JAPANESE UROLOGICAL ASSOCIATION: 2016 9.4.1 Prostate Cancer Screening 9.4.2 Prostate Cancer Treatment 9.5 ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER CONSENSUS CONFERENCE (APCCC): 2021 9.6 NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR HEALTH AND CARE EXCELLENCE (NICE) RECOMMENDATION GUIDELINES FOR mCSPC/mHSPC: 2022 9.7 SEOM CLINICAL GUIDELINES FOR MCSPC/MHNPC: 2021 9.8 EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION OF UROLOGY GUIDELINES ON PROSTATE CANCER (2023) 9.9 CLINICAL GUIDELINES FOR THE TREATMENT OF ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER (SPANISH SOCIETY OF MEDICAL ONCOLOGY, 2020) 9.10 GUIDELINES FOR THE TREATMENT OF ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER (NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR HEALTH AND CARE EXCELLENCE, 2021) 9.11 GUIDELINES FOR THE ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER (CANCER COMMITTEE OF THE FRENCH ASSOCIATION OF UROLOGY, 2020) 10 EPIDEMIOLOGY AND PATIENT POPULATION 10.1 KEY FINDINGS 10.2 ASSUMPTIONS AND RATIONALE 10.3 TOTAL METASTATIC CASES OF PROSTATE CANCER IN THE 7MM 10.4 THE UNITED STATES 10.4.1 Total Prevalent Cases of Prostate Cancer in the United States 10.4.2 Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Prostate Cancer in the United States 10.4.3 Age-specific Cases of Prostate Cancer in the United States 10.4.4 Total Diagnosed Cases of Prostate Cancer by Clinical Stages in the United States 10.4.5 Total Cases of mCSPC/mHSPC in the United States 10.4.6 Total Treated Cases of mCSPC/mHSPC in the United States 10.5 EU4 AND THE UK 10.5.1 Total Prevalent Cases of Prostate Cancer in EU4 and the UK 10.5.2 Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of Prostate Cancer in EU4 and the UK 10.5.3 Age-specific Cases of Prostate Cancer in EU4 and the UK 10.5.4 Total Diagnosed Cases of Prostate Cancer by Clinical Stages in EU4 and the UK 10.5.5 Total Cases of mCSPC/mHSPC in EU4 and the UK 10.5.6 Total Treated Cases of mCSPC/mHSPC in EU4 and the UK 10.6 JAPAN 10.6.1 Total Prevalent Cases of Prostate Cancer in Japan 10.6.2 Total Diagnosed Cases of Prostate Cancer in Japan 10.6.3 Age-specific Cases of Prostate Cancer in Japan 10.6.4 Total Diagnosed Cases of Prostate Cancer by Clinical Stages in Japan 10.6.5 Total Cases of mCSPC/mHSPC in Japan 10.6.6 Total Treated Cases of mCSPC/mHSPC in Japan 11 PATIENT JOURNEY 12 MARKETED THERAPIES 12.1 KEY COMPETITORS 12.2 ERLEADA (APALUTAMIDE): JANSSEN PHARMACEUTICAL 12.2.1 Product Description 12.2.2 Regulatory Milestones 12.2.3 Other Developmental Activities 12.2.4 Clinical Development 12.2.5 Safety and Efficacy 12.3 ORGOVYX (RELUGOLIX): MYOVANT SCIENCES 12.3.1 Product Description 12.3.2 Regulatory Milestones 12.3.3 Other Developmental Activities 12.3.4 Clinical Development 12.3.5 Safety and Efficacy 12.4 ZYTIGA (ABIRATERONE ACETATE): JANSSEN BIOTECH 12.4.1 Product Description 12.4.2 Regulatory Milestones 12.4.3 Other Developmental Activities 12.4.4 Safety and Efficacy 12.5 XTANDI (ENZALUTAMIDE): ASTELLAS PHARMA/PFIZER 12.5.1 Product Description 12.5.2 Regulatory Milestones 12.5.3 Other Developmental Activities 12.5.4 Clinical Development activity 12.5.5 Safety and Efficacy 12.6 NUBEQA (DAROLUTAMIDE): BAYER 12.6.1 Product Description 12.6.2 Regulatory Milestones 12.6.3 Other Development Activities 12.6.4 Clinical Development 12.6.5 Safety and Efficacy 13 EMERGING THERAPIES 13.1 KEY COMPETITORS 13.2 PLUVICTO (177LU-PSMA-617): NOVARTIS PHARMACEUTICALS 13.2.1 Product Description 13.2.2 Other Development Activities 13.2.3 Clinical Development 13.2.4 Safety and Efficacy 13.3 AKEEGA (NIRAPARIB AND ABIRATERONE ACETATE): JANSSEN 13.3.1 Product Description 13.3.2 Other Developmental Activities 13.3.3 Clinical Development 13.3.4 Safety and Efficacy 13.4 TALZENNA (TALAZOPARIB): PFIZER 13.4.1 Product Description 13.4.2 Other Developmental Activities 13.4.3 Clinical Development 13.4.4 Safety and Efficacy 13.5 CAPIVASERTIB (AZD 5363): ASTRAZENECA 13.5.1 Product Description 13.5.2 Clinical Development 13.5.3 Safety and Efficacy 13.6 VUDALIMAB: XENCOR 13.6.1 Product Description 13.6.2 Clinical Development 13.6.3 Safety and Efficacy 13.7 VERZENIO (ABEMACICLIB/LY2835219): ELI LILLY AND COMPANY 13.7.1 Product Description 13.7.2 Clinical Development 13.7.3 Safety and Efficacy 14 PROSTATE CANCER: SEVEN MAJOR MARKET ANALYSIS 14.1 KEY FINDINGS 14.2 TOTAL MARKET SIZE OF mCSPC/mHSPC IN THE 7MM 14.3 MARKET OUTLOOK 14.4 KEY MARKET FORECAST ASSUMPTIONS 14.5 UNITED STATES 14.5.1 Total Market Size of mCSPC/mHSPC in the United States 14.5.2 Market Size of mCSPC/mHSPC by Therapies in the United States 14.6 EU4 AND THE UK 14.6.1 Total Market Size of mCSPC/mHSPC in EU4 and the UK 14.6.2 Market Size of mCSPC/mHSPC by Therapies in EU4 and the UK 14.7 JAPAN 14.7.1 Total Market Size of mCSPC/mHSPC in Japan 14.7.2 Market Size of mCSPC/mHSPC by Therapies in Japan 15 UNMET NEEDS 15.1 METASTATIC PROSTATE CANCER 16 SWOT ANALYSIS 17 KOL VIEWS 18 MARKET ACCESS AND REIMBURSEMENT 18.1 UNITED STATES 18.1.1 Centre for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) 18.2 EU4 AND THE UK 18.2.1 Germany 18.2.2 France 18.2.3 Italy 18.2.4 Spain 18.2.5 United Kingdom 18.3 JAPAN 18.3.1 MHLW 18.4 PROSTATE CANCER MARKET ACCESS AND REIMBURSEMENT 18.4.1 The United States 18.4.2 Germany 18.4.3 France 18.4.4 Italy 18.4.5 Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Products (AEMPS) 18.4.6 The United Kingdom 19 APPENDIX 19.1 BIBLIOGRAPHY 19.2 REPORT METHODOLOGY 20 DELVEINSIGHT CAPABILITIES 21 DISCLAIMER 22 ABOUT DELVEINSIGHT

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Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - KO Gold Inc. (CSE: KOG) ("KO Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement of up to 3,030,303 units (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.33 per Unit for gross proceeds of up to $1,000,000 (the "Offering"). Each Unit shall be comprised of one Common Share (each, a "Share") in the capital of the Company and one Share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant shall entitle the holder thereof to acquire one additional Share at a price of $0.40 for a period of two (2) years from the date of issuance. In connection with the Offering, the Company may pay certain eligible persons finder's fees of cash and warrants (each, a "Broker Warrant"). Each Broker Warrant shall entitle the holder thereof to acquire one Share at a price of $0.40 per Share for a period of two (2) years from the date of issuance.

The net proceeds from the Offering will be used to fund the Company's upcoming exploration and drilling programs on its prospecting and exploration permits in the Otago Gold District ("Otago") of New Zealand and for general working capital purposes.

All securities issued pursuant to the Offering will be subject to a hold period of four months plus a day from the date of issuance and the resale rules of applicable securities legislation. The closing of the Offering is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory and other approvals, including the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE").

Corporate Update

The Company is also pleased to provide a corporate update to shareholders. Over the past three months, KO Gold has achieved several key milestones including:

Commenced trading on the CSE under "KOG" on October 11, 2023.

Acquired the two exploration permits that comprise the Smylers Gold Project (" Smylers ") through the acquisition of Hyde Resources Ltd (" Hyde ") as announced by the Company on October 30, 2023.

Greg Isenor, President and CEO of KO Gold recently completed a four-week visit to New Zealand meeting with potential investors, mining consultants and Hyde staff to plan upcoming exploration and drilling activities, and government officials from New Zealand Petroleum and Minerals (" NZP&M "). Mr. Isenor also spent time evaluating potential property acquisitions in Otago and met with potential candidates to oversee its New Zealand operations.

KO Gold has six 100%-owned prospecting and exploration permits in Otago. These permits are located near OceanaGold's producing Macraes Gold Mine within the Hyde-Macraes Shear Zone (HMSZ) and Santana Minerals' resource-stage Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project within the Rise and Shine Shear Zone (RSSZ). Santana's extensive drilling of the RSSZ over the past 3 years has delineated one of the largest gold deposits in Otago and has provided a better understanding of the geological/structural characteristics and gold potential within these high-grade shear zones.

In early 2023, KO Gold applied for a five-year exploration permit over the entire Carrick Goldfield immediately adjacent to its existing Carrick prospecting permit. NZP&M is currently reviewing the application and the exploration permit is expected to be granted in early 2024. The Carrick Goldfield in Otago has been explored and mined for gold since 1864 with an estimated 24,000 ounces produced from the region until 1921 and nearly 7,600 m of historical drilling completed. Gold mineralization at Carrick occurs within shallow dipping shear zones associated with the axial planes of folds. A preliminary 3D geological model has been completed for Carrick based on a detailed exploration database compiled by Hyde and GNS Science and will be used by KO Gold for exploration and drill hole targeting.

KO Gold also has access to other geological and exploration databases compiled by Hyde for the Otago Gold District. These databases are currently being evaluated and will aid in the selection of exploration and drill hole targets on the Smylers and Hyde exploration permits.

KO Gold is currently working with its technical team and consultants in New Zealand to develop a detailed exploration and drilling program, which is expected to commence in early 2024. This program will include prospecting, stream sediment, and soil sampling on its earlier stage permits (Rough Ridge South and Carrick prospecting permits); and reverse circulation (RC) and/or diamond drilling on its Smylers, Hyde, and Carrick exploration permits, with the ultimate goal to delineate a potential gold resource similar to Macraes Mine and the Bendigo-Ophir Project.

Qualified Person Statement

All scientific and technical information contained in this news release was prepared and approved by Paul Teniere, M.Sc., P.Geo., Vice President of Exploration and Director of KO Gold Inc., and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101.

About KO Gold Inc.

KO Gold is a Canadian junior mining company listed on the CSE under the ticker symbol "KOG". The Company's strategy is to acquire and advance highly prospective gold properties within the Otago Gold District in New Zealand. KO Gold has six 100%-owned prospecting and exploration permits within the Otago Gold District for a combined land package of approximately 972 km2. The Smylers Gold Project is an advanced exploration project located adjacent to OceanaGold's active Macraes Gold Mine. The Smylers Gold Project has the potential to host a major gold deposit based on significant investments in exploration and drilling over the past few years including over C$1M spent by KO Gold on exploration, and reverse circulation (RC) and diamond drilling.

For further information, please contact:

Greg Isenor, President and CEO, Director

Tel: (902) 832-5555

Email: info@kogoldnz.com

Website: www.kogoldnz.com

KO Gold Inc.

Suite 802 - Sun Tower, 1550 Bedford Highway Bedford, Nova Scotia

B4A 1E6 Canada

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Forward-Looking Information

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/190117
NEW DELHI , Dec. 7, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- LT Foods (NSE: DAAWAT) (BSE: 532783), the more than 70-year-old Indian-origin global FMCG Company in consumer food space, is proud to announce that its flagship brand DAAWAT has been recognised as the 'Top Brand' in the Canstar Blue's latest dry rice ratings in Australia.

Canstar Blue is a consumer review and comparison website that helps Australians make better-informed decisions across 300+ different goods and services.

DAAWAT scored 5 stars in the rating encompassing parameters like taste, texture, packaging convenience, variety and range and overall satisfaction. The sample comprised Australians who had bought dry rice from a supermarket or grocer in the last 3 months. The respondents rated their satisfaction on a scale of zero to ten, with zero accounting for 'extremely dissatisfied' and ten for 'extremely satisfied'.

LT Foods offers multiple types of dry rice under the brand 'DAAWAT' to Aussie and South-Asian consumers to choose from, with the majority of its range a variant of basmati rice, which is a long-grain rice that is considered more aromatic than traditional white rice.

LT Foods also offers DAAWAT Quick Cooking Brown Rice, DAAWAT Sehat, a vitamin and iron-fortified rice, 'DAAWAT Biryani Kit', 'DAAWAT Cuppa Rice' to meet the unique requirements of global consumers.

Mr. Ritesh Arora, CEO, India Business & Far East, LT Foods Ltd., said, "We are glad that our brand DAAWAT is recognised as a top brand' in Canstar Blue's dry rice ratings in Australia. This accolade is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing high-quality and satisfying culinary experiences to our consumers globally. At LT Foods, we remain focused on sustainably unlocking the goodness of food for community, country and planet, thereby creating superior shared value for our stakeholders."

Separately, the market share of the DAAWAT in India stands at 30.2% and number of DAAWAT consuming households is 48 lakhs. In U.S., our brand, 'Royal' holds more than 50% of the market share in North America, with more than 1.6 MM households consuming 'Royal' Basmati. In Israel, DAAWAT holds a leadership position.

About LT Foods

LT Foods Ltd. is a more than 70-year-old Indian-origin global FMCG company in the Speciality Rice and Rice-based Foods business, Organic Food & Ingredients and Convenience & Health Segment.

Website:www.ltgroup.in

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Collateral Good, a Zurich, Switzerland-based climate-first venture capital platform, announced the launch of a new 100m strategy dedicated to Sustainable Fashion and financially backed by global premium fashion company HUGO BOSS.

Besides corporates such as HUGO BOSS the fund has attracted interest from family offices, asset managers and institutional investors.

Read more on VCWire.tech, our new website dedicated to the tech venture capital industry.

FinSMEs

06/12/2023
Eligo Bioscience, a Paris, France-based gene-editing company, raised $30M in Series B funding.

The round was led by Sanofi Ventures with participation from new investor Bpifrance (through its InnoBio 2 fund), and existing investors Khosla Ventures and Seventure Partners. Concurrent with this financing, Laia Crespo, Ph.D., Partner at Sanofi Ventures and Benoit Barteau, Investment Director at Bpifrance, will join the board of directors.

This funding is earmarked for accelerating the development of Eligos flagship program, EB005, which targets moderate to severe acne vulgaris, an inflammatory disease that affects about 3% of the global population. The investment will fuel pre-IND and IND activities to achieve early human data readouts in a Ph1b/2a clinical trial. Additionally, it will facilitate Eligos expansion into other chronic diseases, including oncology.

Founded by Luciano Marraffini (Professor at The Rockefeller University and cofounder of Intellia Therapeutics, Timothy Lu (Professor at MIT, and CEO at Senti Biosciences), Dr. David Bikard (Professor at Institut Pasteur) and CEO Xavier Duportet, Eligo Bioscience is a company which specializes in microbiome in-vivo gene editing and is advancing a highly differentiated pipeline of precision medicines to address unmet medical needs in immuno-inflammation, oncology, and infectious diseases driven by the expression of deleterious bacterial genes.

FinSMEs

05/12/2023
The signing ceremony took place in Paris with the participation of FPT Software CEO Pham Minh Tuan, FPT Software Senior Executive Vice President Dang Tran Phuong, AOSIS CEO Pascal Janot, and other senior leaders of the two firms. (Photo: Business Wire)

FPT, a Hanoi, Vietnam-based technology service provider, acquired a majority stake in the French IT consulting firm Aosis, based in Toulouse, France.

The strategic initiative will fortify FPTs delivery competencies, expand business opportunities, and broaden its customer base in this market.

Through the investment, FPT and its tech subsidiary, FPT Software, will leverage Aosiss prowess in SAP, Data, Cloud, and Business intelligence solutions, with a focus on the aerospace, aviation, and transportation sectors.

Aosis will remain an independent entity while undergoing integration with FPTs extensive service offerings, existing clientele, global workforce, and operations.

Created in 2010 by SAP experts and led by CEO Pascal Janot, Aosis currently represents around 100 people working in 4 different locations and providing services in Business Intelligence, data science, big data and data governance, Training, and Software.

Led by Pham Minh Tuan, CEO, FPT Corporation is a globally leading technology and IT services provider, which operates in three core sectors: Technology, Telecommunications, and Education. During over three decades of development, FPT has constantly provided products to people and business and non-business organizations worldwide. The company 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 a total revenue of US$1.87 Billion and 60,000+ employees.

Prior to this acquisition, FPT initiated its M&A venture with RWE IT Slovakia, a subsidiary of European energy giant RWE, making it the first overseas M&A deal of a Vietnamese IT company. This was followed by an acquisition of a 90% stake in the US-based digital transformation consultancy Intellinet in 2018.

FinSMEs

06/12/2023
Gecko Robotics, a Pittsburgh, PA-based company which specializes in using AI-powered software and advanced robotics to maintain and build important physical infrastructure, raised $100M in Extension funding.

The round, which brought the total amount to $173M, saw participation from Founders Fund and USIT. The board seats will be filled by USIT Managing Director Gaetano Crupi, who is the co-founder and former CEO of Cabin Technologies, and Trae Stephens of Founders Fund, who is also the Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Anduril Industries.

The company intends to use the funds to expand its business reach.

Led by CEO Jake Loosararian, Gecko Robotics is helping organizations ensure the availability, reliability, and sustainability of critical infrastructure. It has contracts with the United States Navy to speed maintenance cycles for surface ships, and the United States Air Force to assess the condition of ICBM launch facilities as part of the Sentinel program. Its solutions combine wall-climbing robots, sensors, and an AI-powered data platform to provide customers with a window into the current and future health of their physical assets. This provides insights, enabling decision advantage and increasing readiness to ensure mission success.

FinSMEs

06/12/2023
ProvenRun, a London, UK-based cybersecurity software company, raised 15M in Series A funding.

The round was led by Tikehau Capital, through its new vintage of Brienne, its flagship private equity cybersecurity strategy with the French Ministry of Defences Definvest fund, managed by Bpifrance.

The company intends to use the funds to accelerate its product roadmap (automotive security applications, Risc-V architectures) and its geographic expansion into North America.

Led by Dominique Bolignano, ProvenCore provides a secure operating system (OS) and apps for connected vehicles and smart devices, which enable carmakers and IoT device builders to develop and certify applications fast, get ahead of future regulatory requirements and reduce their lifecycle maintenance costs. The technology focuses on critical industries, with a particular emphasis on the aerospace and defence, automotive and semiconductor sectors. Their product, ProvenCore, attained the highest certification level (EAL7) on Common Criteria, the global standard in computer security.

FinSMEs

06/12/2023
Renaissance

Renaissance, a Vancouver, BC-Canada-based platform for music superfans, raised a new funding round.

The company previously raised $2.3M CAD led by Blockchain Founders Fund and pre-seed led by Panache Ventures.

The new funding (the extension by Blockchain Founders Fund), a mixture of venture funding and non-dilutive funding through grant programs in Canada, enables Renaissance to 3x its active users while onboarding 1,000+ artists onto the platform.

Led by Arpan Deol, co-founder and CEO, and Devon Ulrich, co-founder and COO, Renaissance is a fan engagement platform uniting music superfans globally. With Renaissance, artists will unlock a new revenue stream, direct-to-superfan and utilize exclusive tools to connect deeply with their superfans. The mobile & web app allows fans to track their streams in real-time, enter exclusive artist giveaways, and join streaming parties and communities around their favourite artists. Alongside that, their artist platform plugs directly into the mobile/web apps enabling a seamless experience for the artist to connect with their most-engaged fans.

Since 2021, Renaissance has experienced growth across its mobile and web applications which has crossed 1M installs with zero marketing spend amongst superfans globally. The company tracks over 150M streams per month in real-time for their users and has seen over 200M participants across Streaming Parties.

FinSMEs

06/12/2023
Replicate, a San Francisco, CA-based provider of a platform for open source machine learning models, raised $40M in Series B funding.

The round was led by Andreessen Horowitz, with support from NVIDIAs fund NVentures, Heavybit, Sequoia, and Y Combinator.

The company intends to use the funds to expand operations and its development efforts.

Replicate provides a platform for open source machine learning models which enables users to run and refine open-source models with an API, deploy custom models at scale, all with one line of code.

FinSMEs

06/12/2023
Vast Data, a remote AI data platform company, raised $118M in Series E funding; at $9.1 Billion valuation.

The round was led by Fidelity Management & Research Company and accompanied by New Enterprise Associates (NEA), BOND Capital and Drive Capital.

The company intends to use the funds to broaden its business presence, penetrating new regions in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe.

Led by CEO Renen Hallak, Vast Data provides a platform that unifies storage, database, and containerized compute engine services into a single, scalable software platform architected from the ground up to power AI and GPU-accelerated tools in modern data centers and clouds. The platform enables organizations to understand all data, both structured and unstructured as it exists in the natural world, to generate superior insights and unlock new value.

At the end of FYQ3, VAST Data surpassed $1 billion in cumulative software bookings. The company achieved 3.3x year-over-year (YoY) growth and maintained positive cash flow for the last 12 quarters with a gross margin of nearly 90%. Its customer roster of global enterprises include Booking Holdings, Inc., U.S. Air Force, U.S. Department of Energy, Verizon, Boston Childrens Hospital, Pixar, and Zoom, among others. Customer partnerships include CoreWeave, Lambda and Core42 (formerly G42 Cloud).

Commenting on the news, Renen Hallak said: To be truly impactful in this era of AI and deep learning, you not only want to have a lot of data, but also high quality data that is correctly organized and available at the right place, at the right time. The VAST Data Platform delivers AI infrastructure that opens the door to automated discovery that can solve some of humanitys most complex challenges.

FinSMEs

06/12/2023
Bollywood actor Aamir Khan and Tamil star Vishnu Vishal were stuck in Chennai floods amid Cyclone Michaung, and Vishal narrated his ordeal by sharing multiple tweets and pictures on X. He shared some glimpses of water logging and wrote- Water is entering my house and the level is rising badly in karapakkam I have called for help No electricity no wifi No phone signal Nothing Only on terrace at a particular point i get some signal.

Water is entering my house and the level is rising badly in karapakkam

I have called for help

No electricity no wifi

No phone signal

Nothing

Only on terrace at a particular point i get some signal

Lets hope i and so many here get some help

I can feel for people all over chennai pic.twitter.com/pSHcK2pFNf  VISHNU VISHAL  VV (@TheVishnuVishal) December 5, 2023

Sharing some pictures of Aamir Khan on a rescue boat, Vishal wrote- Thanks to the fire and rescue department in helping people like us who are stranded Rescue operations have started in karapakkam.. Saw 3 boats functioning already Great work by TN govt in such testing times Thanks to all the administrative people who are working relentlessly.

Thanks to the fire and rescue department in helping people like us who are stranded Rescue operations have started in karapakkam..

Saw 3 boats functioning already Great work by TN govt in such testing times Thanks to all the administrative people who are working relentlessly https://t.co/QdoW7zaBuI pic.twitter.com/qyzX73kHmc  VISHNU VISHAL  VV (@TheVishnuVishal) December 5, 2023

And lastly, he posed with Khan and Ajith Kumar, the Tamil star who came to their aid, penned a thankful note to him and expressed- After gettting to know our situation through a common friend, The ever helpful Ajith Sir came to check in on us and helped with travel arrangements for our villa community membersLove you Ajith Sir!

After gettting to know our situation through a common friend,

The ever helpful Ajith Sir came to check in on us and helped with travel arrangements for our villa community membersLove you Ajith Sir! https://t.co/GaAHgTOuAX pic.twitter.com/j8Tt02ynl2  VISHNU VISHAL  VV (@TheVishnuVishal) December 5, 2023

Chennai Floods: Suriya and Karthi donate Rs 10 lakh after cyclone Michaung causes havoc

Kollywood superstars and siblings Suriya and Karthi have stepped forward as the first from the industry to contribute to relief efforts. They have donated a sum of Rs 10 lakhs through their fan clubs, which will go to help with any kind of relief aid required.

The state government advised people to take precautionary measures as the IMD issued a red alert for the state, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall in Chennai and neighbouring areas.

Meeanwhile, Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin on Tuesday said that the rains received during the Cyclone period have exceeded what the state has received in 2015. The Chief Minister also called on organisations involved in Relief Work to join hands with the government to alleviate the suffering of fellow human beings.

Relief assistance of Rs 5,000 crore will be requested from the central government for storm and rain damage. Relief assistance will also be provided to the people who have suffered CM MK Stalin said.

Eight people have lost their lives while multiple roads and subways are closed due to waterlogging in the wake of the Severe Cyclonic Storm Michaung, which is expected to make landfall on the southern coast of Andhra Pradesh between Nellore and Machilipatnam today.

with inputs from agencies
Businessman and Shilpa Shettys husband Raj Kundra was implicated by Mumbai Police in the much-talked about pornography case back in May 2022. The Enforcement Directorate began a money laundering investigation and now, reports have said they have found no direct connection between Kundra and the pornography racket.

The money laundering investigation by ED

A UK-based company called Kenrin, which is connected to other shell companies implicated in money laundering is the focus for ED as of now. It has been discovered that Kundras brother-in-law, Pradeep Bakshi, is the owner of Kenrin, and also happens to be the official promoter of the HotShot app.

Sources of ED say Saurabh Kushwah, CEO of Arms Prime Media Limited, approached Kundra to invest in the company back in January 2019, and his association lasted till December in the same year, when the HotShot app was developed. The app was later sold to Kenrin for $ 25,000, and ED is now reviewing the bank transactions.

Raj Kundras pornography case

Back in September 2021, Kundra walked out of a Mumbai jail, a day after a magistrate court granted bail to the key accused in a pornographic films case. Kundra was released from the Arthur Road jail shortly after 11.30 am, a jail official said.

Chief Metropolitan Magistrate SB Bhajipale on Monday allowed Kundras bail application on furnishing a bond of Rs 50,000.

Kundra, husband of Bollywood actor Shilpa Shetty, was arrested on 19 July, 2021 after being booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act.

The public prosecutor opposed Kundras application, saying just because the chargesheet has been filed, it does not imply bail is to be granted to the accused.

The police, in their supplementary chargesheet, had claimed Kundra was the main facilitator in the case and he along with other accused exploited young women struggling in the movie industry by filming them in obscene ways.

Shilpa Shettys cryptic post

Taking to Instagram, Shetty posted a picture of herself along with a quote from the Chinese philosopher Confucius.

The quote read: Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.

In the caption, the 46-year-old actor wrote, There are always going to be moments that push you to the ground. In times like these, I truly believe that if you fall seven times, make yourself strong enough to be able to stand back up eight times.
Ashok Gehlot, Rajasthans outgoing chief minister, had carried out a surveillance on Sachin Pilot when he along with his loyalist MLAs had rebelled in 2020, are the latest claims circulating. Pilots phone was also being tapped when he was stationed at Manesar with 18 party MLAs that year. Gehlot has closely monitored his meetings along with the actions of Pilots supporters. These were the claims made by Gehlots Officer on Special Duty (OSD) Lokesh Sharma.

While there was no immediate reaction from Congress leaders Gehlot and Pilot, or their aides, on the allegations, the question remains: Are the allegations true? Who is Lokesh Sharma, and whats behind his comments? Heres a closer look.

The allegations

The political crisis in Rajasthan unfolded when Sachin Pilot, along with 18 MLAs, went to Manesar, bringing the government to the verge of collapse. In such situations, it is natural for the government to implement surveillance measures to monitor the people the person in question is meeting, Lokesh Sharma told news agency ANI.

Everyone is monitored  where these individuals go, whom they meet, and whom they speak with, Sharma added.

He claimed that the monitoring was happening from before the rebellion as there was some idea that such a thing could happen.

The main reason, he cited, behind such actions was to be prepared with corrective measures to be taken if he moved ahead with his rebellion.

He added that it was due to this monitoring that we were able to bring some people back.

Denied ticket, alleges leadership mismanagement for partys defeat

Sharma, who was denied a ticket to contest the Rajasthan Assembly polls and has been criticising Gehlot for the partys defeat in the elections, also said if the incidents of September last year, when a legislature party meeting was not allowed to take place by Gehlot loyalists, had not happened and the Congress observers had carried out the agenda for which they had come, the picture in Rajasthan would have been different.

The Congress leadership wanted to effect a leadership change and bring in Pilot as the chief minister.

He said the differences between Gehlot and Pilot harmed the partys prospects.

Sharma claimed that elections could have been fought better and the main reason for defeat was that ticket distribution was not done properly.

There was no-anti incumbency against the government but people did not want to see many of the MLAs return as their representatives. Such reports were communicated to the chief minister. These were not just my reports but the AICC survey, and other reports were that sitting MLAs tickets should be cut but it was not done, Sharma claimed.

Also Read: Will it be Vasundhara Raje again? Who will be Rajasthans next CM?

Asked why action had not been taken on the reports, he said, You can say it was his (Gehlots) stubbornness. He probably felt it was his moral duty towards those who had helped him save his government. Sharma denied that he was making such allegations as he was denied a ticket.

He said it is up to the party to decide on his ticket which he was demanding as a party worker.

I am saying so now as I want that corrective measures are taken as Lok Sabha polls are round the corner and it is important to set things right, he said.

On the day the Congress lost in Rajasthan, Sharma had blamed Gehlot for the defeat in the Assembly polls and said that his experience, magic and schemes could not bring the Congress back to power in the state.

On Monday, replying to a question on an earlier statement of Sharma, Pilot had said, I have seen the statement. It is strange. Because he was OSD to the chief minister, thats why it is a matter of concern. I believe the party will look into why he said so. And how much truth it holds.

With inputs from PTI
The state of Rajasthan is on edge. And it has nothing to do with the recently-concluded Assembly elections. Rajput outfits across the state, particularly in Jaipur have called for a bandh following the murder of Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena (SRRKS), Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, at his house in the Mansarovar area.

The Rajput leaders supporters are demanding a judicial probe into the sensational murder, which has also sparked protests in Rajasthan that is currently under the process of a change in power after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defeated the Congress in the elections.

But who exactly is Gogamedi? And who killed him? Heres a closer look about the Rajput leader and details surrounding his murder.

Life and times of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi

Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, whose actual name was Sukhdev Singh Shekhawat, was associated with the Karni Sena for long. For those who dont remember, the Karni Sena was the group behind the massive protests against Sanjay Leela Bhansalis movie Padmaavat.

It is reported that Gogamedi was associated with the group since 2013, and was a very close associate of its leader Lokendra Singh Kalvi, even being his close confidante. Such were their ties that Gogamedi was appointed as the Rajasthan president of the Shri Rajput Karni Sena.

However, owing to differences with Kalvi in 2015, the two parted ways and Gogamedi formed his own splinter group  the Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena.

Reports state that he first made headlines with massive rounds of protests against the encounter of alleged gangster Anand Pal Singh by the Special Operations Group of the Rajasthan Police in 2017.

Later, he once again made headlines when he spearheaded violent protests against the Bollywood movie Padmaavat, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapur. His group alleged that the movie was showing Rani Padmini, a Chittor queen, in bad light.

And despite multiple clarifications by the producers, the Gogamedi-led group continued to vandalise the sets of the movie, and burnt its posters, calling for a mass boycott. In fact, he was even quoted by news agency ANI as then saying, The release of Padmaavat is going to create chaos in the country. The government will be responsible for loss of life and property following the release of this movie. Every theatre where this movie is released will be vandalised.

Earlier in 2017, a woman hailing from the Hanumangarh district had levelled allegations of rape against the Karni Sena leader. In her complaint, she had alleged that Gogamedi had taken her to various locations and raped her. However, the police found that it was a false case, and Gogamedi was cleared of all charges.

A report in The Wire also stated that Gogamedi was a supporter of the Congress party. He also backed the Ashok Gehlot government during the recently concluded Assembly elections. A couple of months ago, Gogamedi, in a Mahapanchayat, demanded the Union government to increase the reservations to economically weaker sections (EWS) from the current 10 per cent to 14 per cent.

In recent times, Gogamedis associates had also claimed that the Karni Sena leader was receiving threats from gangsters.

The murder of Gogamedi

And it seems that the threats finally materialised on Tuesday evening (5 December).

Gogamedia was shot dead in the living room of his house by three men. One of the assailants was also gunned down by his accomplices, said the police.

As per CCTV footage available, the attackers whipped out their weapons and fired indiscriminately at Gogamedi, who was then sitting on a couch opposite them and then eventually falls down. Before fleeing, one of the assailants also shot a motionless Gogamedi lying on the floor from a close range.

VIDEO | CCTV footage shows two men firing multiple shots at Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi and another man standing at the door. Gogamedi died, while one of his security personnel and another person were injured in the firing. (Disclaimer: PTI pic.twitter.com/2W4TQely7C  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 5, 2023

Rajasthan Director General of Police (DGP) Umesh Mishra said, The attackers entered Gogamedis house on the pretext that they wanted to talk to him. After talking to him for some time, they opened fire at him. One of Gogamedis security guards retaliated and was injured in the firing. During the incident, two attackers shot their accomplice Naveen Shekhawat.

The remaining two assailants, who were yet to be identified, were still on the run.

DGP Mishra said the Rohit Godara gang had claimed responsibility for the murder and searches have been launched to trace the two assailants who managed to flee. The Rohit Godara gang has taken responsibility for the murder. All possible hideouts of the attackers are being raided in the neighbouring districts and the Bikaner division, he said, adding that Rajasthan Police has also sought the cooperation of its Haryana counterparts.

It is a serious incident and teams are at work. The accused will be arrested soon, Mishra said

Following Gogamedis death, his supporters began crowding around his house and also blocked the Shipra Path road outside the hospital and demanded that the accused be arrested immediately.

Rohit Godara and the murder of Gogamedi

Shortly after the murder of Gogamedia, gangster Rohit Godara took responsibility for the act, writing on Facebook, I am Rohit Godara Kapursari, brother of Goldie Brar. Today we take full responsibility for the murder of Sukhdev Gogamedi. He (Mr Gogamedi) used to back our enemies.

Believed to be in his late 20s, Godara has a notorious record with over two dozen cases registered against him, including those of murder and abduction. An NDTV report says that there are at least 32 cases against him across police stations in the country.

Hailing from Bikaner, Godara is presently on the run and is believed to be in Canada. Reports add that he fled India in June last year and made his way to Dubai.

He is believed to be carrying out criminal activities at the behest of dreaded gangster Lawrence Bishnoi.

The police have been quoted as telling NDTV that Godara used to run extortion rackets against Rajasthan-based businessmen, demanding sums ranging from Rs 5 crore to Rs 17 crore. In December 2022, he took to Facebook to take responsibility for the killing of gang leader Raju Theth in Sikar.

Godaras name has also come up in connection with the Sidhu Moose Wala murder case in 2022. According to some reports, he is said to have arranged for the vehicle used in the killing, from Rajasthan.

Godara was also allegedly involved in the killing of Punjab-based history sheeter Manpreet Singh Manna in 2019. He is also an accused in the killing of a local BJP leader.

BJP, Congress reacts to Gogamedis murder

Gogamedis murder has also sparked reactions from the political circles. Outgoing Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot wrote on X, The murder of Shri Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi is very sad. I pray to God to give peace to the departed soul and strength to his family to bear this loss.

Newly-elected BJP MLA Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore said in a post on X that no one involved in the murder and its conspiracy will be spared. The net has been cast and the culprits will be dragged out of their hideouts and given exemplary punishment.

In a statement, senior BJP leader Vasundhara Raje termed Gogamedis murder highly condemnable and unfortunate.

With inputs from agencies
Life was thrown out of gear on the southern Indian coast on Tuesday with intense winds, and subsequent torrential rains and flooding.

Cyclone Michaung made landfall near the beach town of Bapatla in Andhra Pradesh state with winds of up to 70 mph that later dropped slightly as the severe category cyclone weakened, the Indian weather office said. Further weakening is forecast in the next six hours.

Weather agencies have predicted harsh weather conditions in Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring cities till Thursday.

High-speed winds, heavy rainfall and waterlogging

Tall waves crashed into southern coastal towns over the last two days as the cyclone approached, submerging entire villages and halting all transportation as more than 390,000 people felt its impact, authorities said.

Before its landfall, at many places in the coastal districts of southern Andhra Pradesh, Michaung left a trail of inundation, eroded roads, overflowing canals, swollen streams and ponds, including submerging thousands of acres of fields of crops in the agrarian state.

High-velocity winds continued till Tuesday night in most parts of the Bapatla district, Chebrolu, Ponnur, Gopapuram and other places, forcing people to remain indoors. A large number of fishing families were relocated to cyclone shelters and relief camps, according to The Hindu.

Heavy rains also lashed Tamil Nadus Chennai for several days. The subsequent floods brought the state capital to a standstill.

After tall waves crashed into southern coasts, villages were submerged and transportation services were affected, impacting lives of around 390,000 people. Trees were uprooted, thousands of residential and commercial buildings, cars and other vehicles remained under water.

According to The Times of India, while more than 61,000 people have been accommodated at government-run centres, numerous families checked into serviced apartments and budget hotels due to the shortage of water, essentials and electricity.

The fishing community in Chennai has been particularly badly affected, with 1,200 fishing boats completely or partially damaged and some even missing.

Many lives lost

Cyclone Michaung barrelled into the southern Indian coast on Tuesday with intense winds, its arrival preceded by torrential rains and flooding that killed at least 13 people, as officials assessed the damage.

The 13 people killed include a 4-year-old boy who died after a wall collapsed, authorities said. More than 140 trains and 40 flights were cancelled in the state, according to Reuters.

No food, electricity and communication

As Cyclone Michaung made landfall in Andhra Pradeshs Bapatla district, power connection was disrupted, plunging the entire district into darkness. Communication was also cut off to the district as there was no mobile network due to the storm.

Parts of Chennai could sense the cyclones fury through the damages caused. Numerous regions faced power outages, adding to residents woes. Communication also suffered significant disruptions, hindering rescue efforts.

Numerous locals said that they havent had internet access or electricity for the past 72 hours. Electronics and other belongings suffered significant damage as a result of the water getting into their homes, as per Indian Express.

Supply of essential items like milk, drinking water and petrol was affected in Chennai and other districts, allowing retailers to sell them at excess price.

According to TOI, government-owned Aavins dairy plant in Ambattur, which usually supplies five lakh litres of milk, also submerged entirely which affected supply in the capital city. Efforts were made to source milk from the neighbouring districts.

Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary Shiv Das Meena said on Tuesday evening that 80 per cent of power supply and 70 per cent of mobile networks have already been restored, as per PTI.

Flights and rail services cancelled

The rain also led to the cancellation of around 300 fights, with the Chennai airport shutting down its airfield.

Air services that were suspended on Monday, partially resumed on Tuesday with domestic and international flights landing and taking off albeit with delays reported on some sectors.

The Southern Railway also cancelled several long-distance trains on Monday.

Rescue and relief efforts on

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy held a review meeting to take stock of the severe cyclonic storm on Tuesday and assessed its impact and relief measures. The CM instructed officials to efficiently distribute food rations deploying the ward and village volunteer system. He sanctioned Rs 22 crore for immediate relief efforts.

The state government set up helplines in the affected districts: Bapatla (8712655881), Guntur (0863 2234014), Krishna (08672 25272), NTR (0866 2575833), Chittoor (9491077356), Kadapa (08672 23272), Visakhapatnam (0891 2590100) and Tirupati (0877 2236007), among others.

Departmental helplines include Police (100, 112) and Fisheries (9390125477). In Anakapalli district, 52 rehabilitation centres have been set up and arrangements made to accommodate more than 60,000 people.

Several District Disaster Response Teams (DDRT) were formed to carry out relief work in all rain-affected areas across Chennai. The Air Force Station, Tambaram and the Navy joined the rescue and rehabilitation works.

Two helicopters were pressed in for service in rain affected areas while Navys divers, swimmers and inflatable boats ventured into the operation.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said on Tuesday morning that across the nine affected districts, including Chennai, a total of 61,666 relief camps were established. Approximately 11 lakh food packets and one lakh milk packets have been distributed so far, he said.

The Chennai Corporation has brought in 5000 workers from other districts for flood mitigation works in the city. These workers utilised farm tractors and fishing boats in flooded areas for rescue operations and distributing relief materials.

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan and South star Vishnu Vishal were also among those rescued by the Chennai Fire Service personnel.

CM Stalin on Tuesday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to release Rs 5,060 crore to take up relief measures in the cyclone-battered state. He also requested a visit by a team of the Union government to assess the affected areas.

Telangana also on alert

The Congress Telangana unit chief A Revanth Reddy, who is set to take oath as chief minister on 7 December, asked officials to be on alert in view of the IMDs warnings on the potential impact of the cyclone on various districts.

Taking to X, Reddy said officials should take measures to see that paddy crop is not damaged and people living in low-lying areas do not face trouble. Officials should be alert in view of the IMDs warnings on the impact of the cyclone on various districts in Telangana. Precautions should be taken to see that paddy is not damaged, he said in the post.

(The officials) should see that daily life is not troubled in agency and low-lying areas. [They should] be ready to take up the necessary relief measures, he added.

Appropriate measures should be taken in accordance with the protocols to be followed in case of heavy rains and floods, Telanganas Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari said, adding that National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are being sent to Bhadradri-Kothagudem and Mulugu districts.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is yet to pick its chief ministerial candidate for the three Hindi heartland states  Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh  that it won recently. The saffron party retained power in MP, while trouncing the Congress in the other two states.

Several names of who could be selected for the top posts are doing rounds. However, the BJP has not made any official announcements so far. Who will the saffron party choose as its CM picks in the three states? Will it go with the old warhorses or bring new faces? Lets take a look.

Will BJP choose a new face?

As per multiple media reports, the saffron party could go with new faces this time in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh as well as MP.

Although the partys former CM faces have been re-elected in all three states  Vasundhara Raje in Rajasthan, Shivraj Singh Chouhan in MP and Raman Singh in Chhattisgarh, the party is likely to go with fresh faces.

BJP to give responsibility of CM post to new faces in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, where assembly polls were held recently: Sources  ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2023

Sources told NDTV that generational change could be a criterion while picking the CMs, along with keeping in mind the 2024 general elections.

The BJP brass has been holding hectic parleys with the state units since the Assembly results were declared on Sunday (3 December). As per a Hindustan Times (HT) report, a high-level meeting of the party was held at the residence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (5 December).

Union home minister Amit Shah and BJP president JP Nadda were also present at the huddle, which was to decide the schedule of the parliamentary board  BJPs highest decision-making body  that will appoint observers for the legislative party meetings in the three states, the newspaper report added.

After this meeting, Shah and Nadda met the BJPs in-charge of MP, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh to get feedback about the state leaders, reported NDTV.

A BJP functionary told HT that the party high command will review the inputs before taking a decision. What the senior leadership does not appreciate is flexing muscle. Reports of leaders showing strength by parading MLAs is not welcomed, he added. While the party leader did not mention anyone particularly, the comment is viewed as a reference to legislators flocking to Raje to show their support, according to the newspaper.

The BJP legislature party meeting is likely to take place on Wednesday (6 December) or tomorrow, HT reported.

The saffron party had gone to polls without projecting a CM face in any state, with PM Modi leading the election campaign.

ALSO READ: The Rise of Revanth Reddy: Meet the new Telangana chief minister

Who are the contenders?

In Madhya Pradesh, the outgoing CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan has claimed he is not a contender for the top job. The four-time CM, whose welfare schemes like Ladli Behna scheme are believed to be a major factor for the BJPs thumping victory in the state, said in a video posted recently on X, Neither was I the CM contender earlier nor now. I am just a party worker and whatever post or duty the party will give I will fulfil that.

He said his next goal was to ensure the BJPs triumph in all 29 Lok Sabha seats in the next years elections.

However, his recent actions and remarks are being seen as hints to the party high command, making his case for the CM post. Addressing a public gathering in Chhindwara on Wednesday, the incumbent CM said, BJP got 48.6 per cent votes which we have not got till now. When we won 173 seats, the vote percentage was 42 per cent. You have done a miracle, reported ANI.

#WATCH | At a public meeting in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan says, BJP got 48.6% votes which we have not got till now. When we won 173 seats, the vote percentage was 42%. You have done a miracle. pic.twitter.com/RHiP7c8HfU  ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2023

Besides Chouhan, Union ministers Prahlad Patel, Jyotiraditya Scindia and Narendra Singh Tomar, and BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya are probables for the top job.

The BJP top brass is unlikely to go with Raje in Rajasthan. Given her uneasy relationship with the party high command, the veteran royal could be sidelined. However, Raje remains the BJPs tallest leader in the state whose appeal cuts across all castes.

Several newly-elected MLAs met Raje as well as Rajasthan BJP chief CP Joshi in Jaipur on Tuesday (5 December), as per HT.

Like Madhya Pradesh, the saffron party fielded several MPs this time in Rajasthan, who could be the frontrunners for the top post. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Union ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Arjun Ram Meghwal, state unit president CP Joshi, and key leaders Kirodi Lal Meena, Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Diya Kumari and Mahant Balaknath are seen as contenders for the CM post.

BJPs Rajasthan in-charge Arun Singh told HT that the CM will be picked soon. Whatever decision is taken by the parliamentary board will be acceptable to all.

In Chhattisgarh, the names of ex-CM Raman Singh, state party unit chief Arun Kumar Sao, former IAS officer OP Choudhary, prominent leaders Renuka Singh and Dharamlal Kaushik, and ex-Union minister Vishnu Deo Sai are creating buzz.

With inputs from agencies
Kyrgyzstan, China, Kazakhstan, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. What do these countries have in common? They are the only nations that Russian president Vladimir Putin has made a visit to this year.

The Russian strongman is making his way to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia today, at a time when theres an international warrant issued against him by the International Criminal Court (ICC) amid the ongoing war against Ukraine.

After his visit to both countries, Putin is reportedly going to host Irans president Ebrahim Raisi in Moscow on Thursday.

As Putin makes his way, we take a closer look at whats on his agenda and why these meetings are significant.

Putins rare trip to Saudi and UAE

On Tuesday (6 December), the Kremlin had announced that President Vladimir Putin would be travelling to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates the following day for a working visit.

Putin will first make his way to UAE, which is currently hosting the global COP28 climate summit in Dubai, and meet with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, and then travel to Saudi Arabia, where he will meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Both countries have been pressured to distance themselves from Russia since its invasion of Ukraine. However, both countries have refused to cave in.

Several senior-level leaders from Russia are accompanying Putin for the visit. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, Bank of Russia Governor Elvira Nabiullina, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Industry and Trade Minister Denis Manturov are also travelling with Putin. Moreover, billionaire Vagit Alekperov, a Lukoil PJSC shareholder, may also join, according to RIA.

Importantly, Putins visit to the two Gulf nations is only his fifth trip abroad since the ICC issued an arrest warrant for him in March that accused him of responsibility for the deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia. He had earlier skipped a BRICS summit in South Africas Pretoria over fears that the host nation would be obliged to arrest him. He also had skipped the G20 Summit in New Delhi. However, there are no such fears in UAE or Saudi Arabia, as they are not signatories to the ICCs founding treaty.

Putins agenda for the visits

The Russia leaders visit to the two countries comes at a very significant time. Last Thursday (30 November), OPEC+ producers, of which Russia is a part of, agreed to voluntary oil output cuts of 2.2 million barrels per day in an attempt to boost the market. Saudi Arabia, Russia and other members of OPEC+, who pump more than 40 per cent of the worlds oil, had issued a statement summarising countries voluntary cut announcements.

When asked if the oil cuts would figure in Putins talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that discussions on oil market cooperation will be on the agenda of talks, as Moscow cooperates with these countries through OPEC+.

Apart from the oil output, Putin is also expected to discuss the ongoing Israel-Hamas war with Saudis crown prince Mohammed bin Salman. Fyodor Lukyanov, head of the Council on Foreign and Defense Policy, which advises the Kremlin, told Bloomberg that Putins visit to the two key Gulf powers is a clear sign that Russia is breaking out of its international isolation. Furthermore, the move serves to increase Russias West Asia influence.

Reports state that Putin will hold discussions on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, as a means to reassert Russias influence in West Asia. Importantly, Hamas, which has been dubbed as a terrorist group by several Western countries, is on good terms with Russia, often sending delegations to Moscow.

Yuri Ushakov, Putins foreign policy aide, told Interfax news agency earlier, It is inevitable. It would be important for our colleagues to listen to Vladimir Putins assessments of how the situation is developing.

Putin, according to analysts, wants to leverage this relationship and assert himself in the crisis. Analysts added that Putin has little to lose by doing so and much to gain. The Russian leader has earlier suggested that Moscow could play the role of mediator, thanks to its friendly ties with both Israel and the Palestinians, saying that no one could suspect us of playing up to one party.

Also read: Who can broker peace between Israel, Hamas? Can India help?

Putin has blamed the US during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, adding that Washington held double standards by refusing to condemn Israeli war crimes while accusing Russia of committing crimes in Ukraine.

Some geopolitical pundits observe that Putin will try to use this visit to also deepen the wedge between the US and Saudi Arabia over the ongoing war among other issues. While Saudi has been calling for a ceasefire, Washington has maintained its support for Israels operation against Hamas.

Additionally, Saudi Arabia has taken a different route on Iran. While Washington has issued warning to Iran about using proxies against Israel to provoke a large conflict in the area, Riyadh has gone out of its way to engage with Tehran.

It will be interesting to see what results will Vladimir Putins talks yield. For now, we are tracking it closely to give you the latest.

With inputs from agencies
Im sure youve heard the saying no pain, no gain.

However, this is untrue for a young girl in the United Kingdom known as bionic, who barely eats, sleeps, or experiences pain.

When Olivia Farnsworth was struck by a car and hauled down the street, she stunned medical professionals by walking away unharmed.

Heres all we know about the young bionic girl.

The only bionic girl in the world

The teenager has a condition known as chromosome six deletion.

According to the National Organisation for Rare Disorders, it is a chromosome abnormality that occurs when there is a missing copy of the genetic material located on the short arm (p) of chromosome 6.

People who have a deletion on chromosome 6p often exhibit distinct facial features, behavioural problems, intellectual difficulties, and developmental delays.

It is believed that Olivia is the only person in the world who possesses all three symptoms together.

The bionic girl who doesnt eat, rarely sleeps and didnt even feel pain when she was dragged down the street by a car.

Doctors diagnosed Olivia Farnsworth with a rare chromosome 6 deletion.

Her mother noticed she never cried as a baby and didnt nap in the day.

She has stayed pic.twitter.com/cxwcsifw72  Thai Hung Le (@Currency_Secret) December 1, 2023

Just 100 of the 15,000 cases of chromosomal disorders in their global database match Olivias 6p deletion.

Chief executive Dr Beverly Searle, a former research biologist, told Dailymail that Olivia was the only case they had heard of in the world.

No pain, no hunger, no sense of danger

Olivias 32-year-old mother, Niki Trepak, who hails from Huddersfield said the condition meant her daughter had no sense of danger.

She got run over and dragged down the street by a car and she didnt complain. She was dragged about ten car lengths down the road. It was horrendous. I dont think its something I will ever get over. I was screaming and all my other children were screaming as she ran out, she said, according to Dailymail.

But Olivia was just like, Whats going on?. She just got up and started walking back to me. Because of the impact she should have had severe injuries. She had a tyre mark on her chest. But her only injuries were she had no skin on her toe or her hip. The doctors think what saved her from injury was she didnt tense up.

She was only seven years old when the accident took place in 2016.

Trepak, who is also the mother to Ella-Mae, 12, Bradlee, 10, Archie, six, and Poppy, four, claimed that shortly after Olivia was born, she began exhibiting symptoms of her illness.

According to Trepak, Olivia stopped sleeping during the day at the age of nine months and never cried as an infant.

She didnt feed, when she was nine months old she started rejecting my milk. I thought she didnt like it but since then, shes never liked food. Shes almost become conditioned to eat, she eats at school because everyone else does but she doesnt really need it. She never gets hungry. At home she will go through phases of eating the same thing for months and months and then go off it  once it was milkshakes, once butter sandwiches, once chicken noodles, she explained, according to NDTV.

She also once fell badly and ripped her lip off and didnt say anything. She had to have major plastic surgery to correct it.

Her hair did not develop correctly until she was four years old due to the disorder.

Though she is usually happy kid, Olivia occasionally has violent outbursts and now requires medicine to help her sleep.

Dailymail quoted her mother as saying, Shes head-butted me, punched and kicked me and can have outbursts of swearing which can be embarrassing if were out in public. It happened in a park the other week and people were wondering whats going on. They dont know whats wrong. This is why I want to raise awareness or chromosome 6 problems. To look at Olivia you dont know anythings wrong with her.

Trepak said that her family has received assistance from the Unique support organisation for chromosome disorders.

No treatment for the disorder

According to Dr Searle, there is no treatment for chromosome disorder.

She told Dailymail, But what we can do is alleviate the symptoms. We try to find matches and provide information for families, which can be great for friendship and local support.
Apollo Hospitals is currently embroiled in a controversy after the Britains The Telegraph newspaper alleged the involvement of Indias biggest private hospital group in illegal cash for kidney racket.

According to the dailys investigation, the hospital allegedly lures impoverished people from Myanmar to sell their kidneys for profit.

On Tuesday, the hospital group issued a statement vehemently denying the allegations and called the report absolutely false, ill-informed, and misleading.

The allegations have also prompted the countrys healthy ministry to probe the matter.

Heres all we know about the scam.

The cash for kidney racket

According to The Telegraph, poor young villagers from Myanmar are being flown to Apollo Hospital in Delhi and paid to donate their kidneys to rich patients around the world.

Its big business, the report said, quoting one of the rackets agents.

The racket involves elaborate forging of identity documents and staging of family photographs to present donors as the relatives of would-be patients. Under Indian and Burmese laws, a patient cannot receive an organ donation from a stranger in normal circumstances, it stated.

According to the investigation, a reporter pretended to be a relative of an ill aunt who desperately needed a kidney transplant but had no family members who could donate.

Upon contacting Apollos offices in Myanmar, the undercover reporter was informed that a stranger would be sourced to donate their kidney.

The reporter was then connected by an Apollo agent to a 27-year-old Burmese guy who informed that he needed to sell his kidney as his elderly parents were not in a good financial condition.

Additionally, a patient can select their donor and then set up a payment plan with that person, the reporter was informed.

The reporter was given a Apollo branded costs document by the head of Apollos Myanmar operation.

It listed a number of costs associated with kidney transplantation, including registration for the medical board (Rs 16,700), flights (Rs 21,000 each way), and the creation of a family tree (Rs 33,000).

Additionally, the document stated that a patient may have to pay up to (Rs 1,79,500) in total. However, this does not include the money donated to a donor, which often amounts to between Rs 70 or 80 lakh.

The Telegraph report also mentioned the name of Dr Sandeep Guleria, who received his training in the UK and Padma Shri receipent. The daily was informed by patients and agents that Guleria was the surgeon who performed the transplants.

The report also cited a 2016 report by Deccan Herald, mentioning that Guleria was expected to be summoned for questioning in connection to a separate kidney scandal linked to Apollos Delhi hospital.

For those unversed, two members of the Apollo secretarial team at Indraprastha Hospital were arrested in 2016 for allegedly participating in a kidney racket, together with a group of brokers and donors. The accuseds inquiry has not yet been completed.

The facade committee

The donor is flown to India after receiving an advance cash payment. The person then makes an interview appearance with the patient before the transplant authorisation committee.

In order to create familial ties between patients and paid donors, the agents also fabricate family trees, home records, marriage licences, and pictures.

Household registrations, suggesting the donor and patient live together as relatives, are also created These faked documents, along with a series of test results that confirm compatibility but not a genetic relationship, are then presented to the hospital authorisation committee for rubber-stamping, according to the investigation.

The committee is in charge of examining the documents that have been sent in and verifying the donor-recipient link. Two retired IAS officers, a central government officer, a state government officer, and two hospital consultantswho are not employed by the hospital but practise medicine there nonethelessare among its members.

The committee, which also consists of a number of representatives from Apollo Hospital, is just a facade, according to one of Apollos Myanmar agents, and it just inquires about the patient-donor relationship in passing.

Apollo denies allegations

Indraprastha Medical Corp, an associate of Apollo which manages its two hospitals in the capital region of Delhi, said it had initiated an inquiry into the matter and called the allegations against it absolutely false, ill-informed and misleading.

According to the official statement, IMCL requires every donor to provide Form 21 notarised by the appropriate ministry in their country.

This form is a certification from the foreign government that the donor and recipient are indeed related. The government-appointed transplant authorisation committee at IMCL reviews documents for each case including this certification and interviews the donor and the recipient, it said, adding, It further re-validates the documents with the concerned embassy of the country. The patients and donors undergo several medical tests, including genetic testing.

These and many more steps far exceed any compliance requirements for a transplant procedure and ensure that donor and recipient are indeed related as per applicable laws. IMCL remains committed to the highest standards of ethics and to delivering on our mission to bring the best healthcare to all.

Health ministrys probe

The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), which falls under the health ministry, has asked Delhi Health Secretary S B Deepak Kumar to get the matter examined, take appropriate action  and furnish an action-taken report within a week, according to a letter seen by Reuters.

A committee was being formed to probe the matter and details of donors and patients have been sought from the hospital, Kumar told local media.
A meeting of the floor leaders of the INDIA bloc will be held today at 7 pm at Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharges residence in the national capital, reported ANI, citing sources.

According to the sources, the Trinamool Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) are likely to skip the meeting.

Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Congress MPs Rajiv Shukla and Rahul Gandhi and Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal were among the first few leaders to arrive at the residence of Congress president Kharge for the meeting.

Earlier today, amid speculations that Mamata Banerjee is likely to skip the I.N.D.I.A bloc meeting due to scheduling issues, the West Bengal Chief Minister clarified, saying that the opposition leaders will be meeting shortly whenever the Congress comes up with a favourable date.

I was not informed earlier. Only a day before yesterday, Rahul called me up and told me about the meetingWe will be meeting shortly whenever they decide, Mamata said before leaving for her scheduled North Bengal tour on Wednesday.

Speaking about scheduling issues, the Chief Minister said that her counterparts need prior invitations at least seven or ten days in advance.

Other Chief Ministers also have meetings. They need to know about the program seven days ago or 10 days ago, she said.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut said that the next meeting of the I.N.D.I.A bloc can take place between 16 and 18 December and many things including the face of the alliance will be decided at that time.

The INDIA alliance meeting was supposed to be held today but some prominent leaders were not available. There is a wedding in Mamata Banerjees house, MK Stalin is busy with the relief operation in his flood-hit state, Nitish Kumar is not well, and Akhilesh Yadav is not available, therefore this meeting will be held on the 16th or 18th of December. The face etc. everything will be decided in the meeting. We are together and you will see its result in 2024, Sanjay Raut said.

Seat sharing for the Lok Sabha polls, which is just four months away, is likely to be at the top of the agenda. The next INDIA bloc meeting would also be crucial for Congress, particularly as the party lost Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls, the Hindi heartland states that send a large number of members to the Parliament.

The first meeting of the joint opposition convened in Patna on June 23 and the second meeting was held in Bengaluru on July 17-18. The third meeting happened in Mumbai during August 31-September 1.

The INDIA alliance had appeared on shaky ground when the Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the Congress of betrayal after the Congress failed to reach a seat-sharing agreement for the Madhya Pradesh election.

The Samajwadi Party has mellowed its stance now, party spokesperson Rajinder Chaudhary said that the results in the assembly polls would strengthen the INDIA bloc.

INDIA or Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance is a group of 28 opposition parties, including the Congress. The parties have come together to take on the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which is led by PM Modis Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and prevent it from winning a third straight term at the Centre in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

In the Mumbai meeting, the opposition parties adopted resolutions to collectively contest the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections while announcing that seat-sharing arrangements would be finalised as soon as possible through a spirit of give-and-take.

The theme chosen by the INDIA bloc for the elections is Judega Bharat, Jeetega India (India will unite, India will win) to take on the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government.

With inputs from agencies
China contributes wisdom, strength to global climate governance

15:26, December 06, 2023 By Guan Kejiang, Ren Haoyu ( People's Daily

The 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change kicked off in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates.

Themed "Unite. Act. Deliver," the COP28 will see the first-ever global stocktake of the Paris Agreement. All participating parties are looking forward to making progress on multiple important issues.

Chinese and foreign representatives communicate during a side event in China's pavilion at the COP28, Nov. 30. (Photo/Tarek Ibrahim)

China has acted as an important participant, contributor and leader in global ecological progress. Its philosophy and achievements in ecological civilization construction have attracted great attention.

Participants in the COP28 told People's Daily that they expect China to continue playing a leading role and contribute its wisdom and strength together with all parties to building a fair and rational global climate governance system for win-win results.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Secretariat pointed out that the conference takes place in what is already known to be the hottest year ever recorded in human history and is a decisive moment to act on climate commitments and prevent the worst impacts of climate change.

On Dec. 1, over 130 countries signed a declaration on food, agriculture, and climate action, aiming to address global greenhouse gas emissions while safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of farmers in regions most affected by climate change.

On Dec. 2, China, the United States and the United Arab Emirates jointly hosted a summit on methane and non-carbon dioxide (CO2) greenhouse gases. China's special envoy for climate change Xie Zhenhua and U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry had discussions on the implementation of the Sunnylands Statement on Enhancing Cooperation to Address the Climate Crisis, methane emissions control, international cooperation and other important issues.

Dubai is hosting COP28 in its Expo City, and there are two main sites for the events - the Blue Zone and the Green Zone. The Blue Zone is open to accredited delegates and it hosts formal and informal negotiations. The Green Zone is open to the public and offers a platform for non-accredited delegates from different groups to exhibit and exchange ideas.

Photo shows a China-UAE economy and trade exchange center in the Green Zone of the COP28. (People's Daily/Ren Haoyu)

China's pavilion at the COP28, located in the Blue Zone, was officially inaugurated on Nov. 30. It has attracted many visitors with a climate action animation exhibition with the theme of low-carbon development, a green energy demonstration sand table showcasing everything from green electricity to chemical production, and models of new energy vehicles. The pavilion will host a series of side events and activities in nine thematic days.

Over 100 activities will be organized by Chinese government agencies, research institutions, industry associations, businesses, and non-governmental organizations, focusing on China's actions and international cooperation in addressing climate change, green and low-carbon development, coordinated pollution and carbon reduction, just transition and sustainable development, energy transition, digital development, and green finance.

China has made tremendous achievements in ecological civilization construction, said Erik Solheim, former UN under-secretary-general and Senior Advisor to the World Resources Institute. He noted that he had visited various regions in China, where he witnessed environmental improvement, as well as the increasing sense of gain and fulfillment of the people.

Fred Krupp, president of the Environmental Defense Fund, said that the Fund has been collaborating with relevant departments in China for over 20 years, and witnessed China's achievements in environmental protection, carbon emissions trading markets, and community green spaces.

The United States and China share extensive common interests in the field of climate change, Krupp pointed out, hoping countries around the world could make joint efforts to build a better future.

The Green Zone hosts over 600 events under 10 themes during the COP28. On Dec. 1, Chinese tech giant Tencent and Masdar City in the United Arab Emirates jointly launched a global low-carbon innovation alliance at a forum on accelerating green and low-carbon transition. The alliance was joined by over 30 institutions and companies, including the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, McKinsey, and Siemens.

Photo shows the interior of China's pavilion of the COP28. (People's Daily/Ren Haoyu)

At the forum, Tencent unveiled an international version of its online platform for low-carbon technology innovation TanLIVE, which was designated as the official platform for the alliance.

Xu Hao, head of Tencent's Carbon Neutrality Lab, expressed the hope to promote deeper communication and collaboration among stakeholders in the low-carbon field, and to support Chinese low-carbon innovation enterprises in expanding overseas.

Former Vice Chairman of the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Mohan Munasinghe stated that Chinese modernization is a path for green development. As a developing country, China has made tremendous efforts in promoting ecological civilization construction and achieved remarkable accomplishments.

China has proposed to jointly build a green Belt and Road, advocating for the building of a clean and beautiful world, which showcases its significant role in global climate governance and common development.

Xie noted that as a responsible major developing country, China has always adhered to the strategic determination of climate action. China's economic and social development has embarked on a comprehensive green transformation track.

China will continue to make greater contributions to addressing the global climate crisis, achieving sustainable development, and building a clean and beautiful world through practical actions, as well as South-South and North-South cooperation.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
Shortly after Union Home Minister Amit Shahs spirited reply on two Naya Kashmir Bills, the Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill after more than six hours of debate spanning over two days.

While the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill seeks to nominate two members from the Kashmiri migrant community and one representing the displaced persons from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to the legislative assembly, the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill seeks to change the nomenclature of a section of people who are eligible for quota in appointment and admission.

The Home Minister said the two bills related to Jammu and Kashmir brought by the government will give justice to those deprived of their rights for the last 70 years and asserted that reservation to the displaced people will give them a voice in the legislature.

The Bill that I have brought here pertains to bringing justice to and providing rights to those against whom injustice was done, who were insulted and those who were ignored. In any society, those who are deprived should be brought forward. That is the basic sense of the Constitution of India, said Shah.

He said that those who are deprived have to be brought forward but in a dignified way.

There is a huge difference between giving rights and giving rights respectfully. So, instead of weak and deprived category renaming it to Other Backward Class is important, he said.

He said that Jammu and Kashmir has suffered due to two blunders committed by the countrys first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

Two mistakes that happened due to the decision of (former PM) Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru due to which Kashmir had to suffer for many years. The first is to declare a ceasefire  when our army was winning, the ceasefire was imposed. If there had been a ceasefire after three days, PoK would have been a part of India today The second is to take our internal issue to the UN, said the Home Minister.

#WATCH | Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, Two mistakes that happened due to the decision of (former PM) Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru due to which Kashmir had to suffer for many years. The first is to declare a ceasefire  when our army was winning, the ceasefire was imposed. If pic.twitter.com/3TMm8fk5O1  ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2023

Had Jawaharlal Nehru taken right steps, PoK would have been part of India now. It was a historic blunder, he said.

The home minister said a plan to have zero terror incident in Jammu and Kashmir has been in force for the last three years and it will be successful by 2026 when there will be no violence.

With inputs from agencies
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said that Naya Kashmir Bills  the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill  will help and uplift those who were deprived of their rights for 70 years.

#WATCH | Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks on The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 & The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2023 Says, The Bill that I have brought here pertains to bringing justice to and providing rights to those against whom pic.twitter.com/DAl8zIv7Zi  ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2023

Replying to a debate on the two J&K Bills, Shah said, The Bill that I have brought here pertains to bringing justice to and providing rights to those against whom injustice was done, who were insulted and those who were ignored. In any society, those who are deprived should be brought forward. That is the basic sense of the Constitution of India.

He said that those who are deprive have to be brought forward but in a dignified way.

There is a huge difference between giving rights and giving rights respectfully. So, instead of weak and deprived category renaming it to Other Backward Class is important, he said.

He said a few people raised apprehensions about the name change saying that it was just for optics but we need to ensure that respect is attached to the name.

A few people also tried to underestimate itsomeone said that only the name is being changed. I would like to tell all of them that if we have even a little sympathy then we need to see that respect is attached to the name. This can be seen by only those who want to bring them forward considering them like their brothers. Those who use it as vote bank for their own political benefit Narendra Modi is a leader who was born into a poor family and became the Prime Minister of the country today. He knows the pain of the poor, said Shah.

Talking about the Kashmiri Pandits, Shah said had terrorism been tackled at the beginning without considering vote-bank politics, they would not have had to leave Kashmir Valley.

When they (Kashmiri Pandits) were displaced, they were forced lived as refugees in their country. Around 46,631 families were displaced in their own country. This Bill is to get them rights, this Bill is to give them representation, said Shah.

Referring to the era of terrorism in J&K after the 1980s, he said those who lived in the state considering their country were thrown out.

VIDEO | There was an era of terrorism (in Jammu and Kashmir) after the 1980s and it was a horrifying scene. Those who lived on the land considering it their country, were thrown out and no one cared about them, neither did they try to stop it. In fact, those were responsible to pic.twitter.com/UKSE1hn94p  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 6, 2023

There was an era of terrorism (in Jammu and Kashmir) after the 1980s and it was a horrifying scene. Those who lived on the land considering it their country, were thrown out and no one cared about them, neither did they try to stop it. In fact, those who were responsible to stop it, they were enjoying vacations in England, said the Home Minister.

He said a total of 41,844 families were displaced during three wars of 1947, 1965 and 1969 with Pakistan and this Bill is an attempt to them give them their rights.
Goa has the highest rate of rape on minors in the country, at 7.1. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) released statistics for 2022 showing 75 rape cases, of which 57 victims were girls under the age of 18.

It was concerning to learn that, in Goa in 2022, rape cases against young girls accounted for an astounding 76% of all rape cases reported.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs NCRB agency recently released a report that examined crime data from various states and Union territories for 2022.

As per the data, Goas rate of rape on minors stood at 7.1 (per lakh population), the highest in the country. The coastal state recorded 75 rape cases in 2022 of which 57 victims (76 per cent) were minor girls below 18 years of age.

Of the 57 under-age victims, two girls were below 6, while 12 were between 6 to 12 years. Twenty-six victims were between 12 to 16 years and 17 between 16 to 18 years of age, according to the report.

In 93.2 per cent of the 75 rape cases, which comes out to 68, the offender was known to the victim. Also, nine of the accused were family members.

In addition, Goas crime rate against senior citizens stood at 21.4 per cent in 2022, below the national average of 27.5 per cent, as per the NCRB data.

In 2020, there were 31 incidents of crime against senior citizens in the coastal state, which increased to 50 in 2021, but dropped to 35 last year, the statistics showed.
A new book written by former president Pranab Mukherjees daughter Sharmishta PRANAB, MY FATHER: A Daughter Remembers [Rupa Publications India] based upon diary entries of the former president and a lifetime Congressman, makes scathing attacks on Rahul and Sonia Gandhi. Sample this entry in Mukherjees personal notebook made on 28 July 2020, just a month before his passing, By making Congress a preserved playground for Gandhi-Nehru family, Congress lost its democratic character which impacted the polity of the country. After independence, if 5 family members of the same family controlled the Congress presidency for 37 years, it speaks of the worst form of hegemony. The family today is no longer providing vitality to the organisation but eating away its strength. Sonia Gandhi and Rahul since 2004 have lost base acquired even partially by Soniaji in 2001-2003. They are just interested in somehow forming a government at the Centre under Congress with other regional parties.

Meticulously recorded and written in objective manner, Mukherjees daughter Sharmishta painstakingly produces a tomb of sorts, lifting veil and mystery over a series of significant events throughout the eventful UPA years. Mukherjee, since the early 1960s, had developed a habit of meticulously writing diaries. According to Sharmishta who had a brief stint as a politician, the book is based on diary entries and her conversations with him on varied issues over the years.

Mukherjee comes in particular, critical of Rahul, documenting his political immaturity and lack of application. Mukherjee had moved to the Rashtrapati Bhawan by the time Rahul had trashed an ordinance in 2013 that had sought to protect convicted politicians. That night, Mukherjee wrote in his diary, Rahul Gandhi gate-crashed a press conference by Ajay Maken and described the decision of Cabinet as nonsense. This is totally uncalled for. He has all the arrogance of his GandhiNehru lineage without their political acumen. Mukherjee went on to record how his office had received calls from Kapil Sibal and Ahmed Patel requesting him not to take any action on the ordinance. Mukherjee however, wondered how Rahuls actions would impact the coalition partners.

Sharmishta says she was the one who first broke the news to him. After a long time, I saw my father getting so angry! His face became red and he shouted, Who does he [Rahul] think he is? He is not a member of the Cabinet. Who is he to publicly trash a Cabinet decision? The Prime Minister is abroad. Does he even realize the implication of his actions and the effect it will have on the Prime Minister and the government? What right does he have to humiliate the PM like this?

According to Sharmishta, Mukherjee viewed Rahuls outburst as the final nail in the coffin for the Congress. The partys vice-president had shown such disdain for his own government publicly. Why should people vote for you again? he had asked Sharmishta who was herself active in the Delhi Congress unit. She recalls telling Mukherjee how Rahul had tried his best within the party to not promulgate the ordinance, but no one had listened. When I reported this to my father, he sharply remarked that despite his many years in politics and his influential position within the party, if Rahul couldnt persuade his colleagues without resorting to theatrics, then maybe politics wasnt his calling.

Mukherjees faith in Rahul was shaken after this incident. In Pranab Mukherjees assessment the Gandhis  Sonia, Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi do not trust anyone completely except each other.

The 391 pages long book is not critical of Rahul entirely. In several instances, Mukherjee praises Rahul describing him as very courteous and full of questions, which he took as a sign of Rahuls desire to learn. But Mukherjee also could not help observing that Rahul was yet to mature politically. Rahul continued to meet Mukherjee at Rashtrapati Bhavan when the senior Congress leader had become president. Mukherjee often advised him to join the Cabinet and gain some first-hand experience in governance but Rahul did not heed the advice. During one of these visits by Rahul, Mukherjee on 25 March 2013 noted, He [Rahul] has interest in a diverse range of subjects but moves very quickly from one subject to another. I dont know how much he listened and absorbed.

On 15 July 2013, Rahul had visited him over lunch. As per Mukherjees diary, Rahul spelt out in detail his plans for revamping the Congress organisation. Though the president did not write anything about those plans, he was appreciative and noted that Rahul appeared confident of meeting the challenges. But had Mukherjee known what Rahul was about to do two months later [trashing government ordinance] he would have very strongly advised Rahul against it.

On Savarkar: Mukherjee disagreed with Sonia

Mukherjee wrote in his diary, on 25 February 2003, that in a Congress partys Political Affairs Committee (PAC) meeting, Sonia Gandhi was angry with him for agreeing to put Savarkars portrait in the Central Hall, as he had filed mercy petitions and bonds of loyalty to the British. Mukherjee had told her, That doesnt reduce his sacrifice and patriotism and wrote in his diary, I told her firmly that I agreed in the meeting [of the Parliamentary Committee] to the proposal as I consider him a patriot, whatever be his views in the later years. He further added in his diary, People have become so small. How can one forget the sufferings Savarkar brothers had to undergo in cellular jail? Interestingly, a faithful Congressman, Mukherjee told Sonia that he would not attend the function as the party had decided to boycott it, but he told her it was a wrong decision.

The writer is a Visiting Fellow at the Observer Research Foundation. A well-known political analyst, he has written several books, including 24 Akbar Road and Sonia: A Biography. 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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India celebrates 16 December as Vijay Diwas to commemorate one of the most decisive victories in the post-Second World War period. The Indian Armed Forces created history through a blitzkrieg-like operation resulting in the creation of Bangladesh from erstwhile East Pakistan in just 14 days. Another historic outcome of this war was the surrender of 93,000 Pakistani soldiers who were taken as prisoners of war (PoWs) by the victorious Indian Army post the Pakistani defeat.

The man who led the Indian Army as the Chief of Army Staff to this stellar victory was General, later Field Marshal, SHFJ Manekshaw (popularly known as Sam Bahadur). The release of a biopic on the Field Marshal is another well-deserved tribute to this great soldier. Vijay Diwas is the most appropriate occasion to remember this great Indian military hero of all times.

Most of the soldiers who served with him are either no longer alive or are no longer active to share their experiences or recount interesting tales and anecdotes of that period with the present generation. Even though I was in a school uniform and not a military uniform during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, I do not qualify to write anything about his service in the army. However, I was fortunate to spend two full weeks with Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw when he accompanied us to mentor an Indian Polo Association (IPA) team visiting Nigeria in December 1984. I was the juniormost playing member of that team.

Another point of convergence for this team was the fact that the Field Marshal had reviewed the passing out parade in which the then president of Nigeria, General Muhammadu Buhari, passed out of the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. During those two weeks, he accompanied us almost everywhere, from polo during the day to related social functions in the evenings. This gave us an opportunity to hear a first-hand account of the planning and execution of the 1971 war, as well as his days in the pre- and post-independence Indian Army.

He was an institution by himself, exhibiting innumerable leadership moments for youngsters like us to learn. With a dynamic and friendly persona, he earned the title of a soldiers General and later A Peoples Leader. It is no wonder he was so popular with his soldiers as a serving officer and citizens to date. It is a different matter that he repeatedly refused the offer to enter politics, which many political parties wanted him to, as he was very sure that he was not cut out for a political job.

During one of the polo games in Lagos, I had a polo accident where I became unconscious and was evacuated to the military hospital. When I regained consciousness after a couple of hours, the first person I saw was a Nigerian Army lady doctor with an injection in her hand and the Field Marshal was beside my wife, highlighting how concerned and caring he was for his subordinates even though he had retired long ago.

Another incident at the residence of the Indian ambassador, who had invited the team for dinner, shows how friendly he was during social functions. The Field Marshal was sitting on the armrest of a sofa, talking to the ladies when the Indian ambassador introduced him to the Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria. Seeing him so informal, the Japanese ambassador could not believe that he held such an eminent personality. To confirm this fact, he asked me if the person he was introduced to was really a Field Marshal. When I told him that he was the only Field Marshal of India (Field Marshal KM Cariappa was bestowed with the Field Marshals rank later), he was so excited that he kept clicking pictures with Sam Manekshaw. It is rare to see such tall leaders with so much competence, confidence, wit and presence. I observed that he conducted himself with a lot of grace and in a friendly manner, yet he was very disciplined about his food and drinks.

He left Nigeria for London a day before, and we were to travel the next day. When we arrived at the hotel in London, he received the team at the hotel and even gave us a lesson on how to operate those fancy electronic locks on the doors, which many of us had not experienced in that era until then. These acts may appear very innocuous, but to me, they exhibited immense esprit de corps and a caring attitude for his subordinates. Leadership was so ingrained in him that he displayed it in his routine conduct.

He shared with us his experiences with the government led by the then prime minister, Indira Gandhi, prior to the 1971 war and how he had a one-to-one relationship with the then prime minister before and during the war. He narrated an incident when he was asked to attack East Pakistan in Mar/Apr 1971 because of an influx of refugees from East Pakistan. He told the cabinet that all he could assure the prime minister was a defeat in case the Indian Army launched the offensive in Mar/Apr 1971 due to a lack of orientation and the impending monsoon.

The then defence minister, Jagjivan Ram, told him, Arre Shyam (Sam), Mann jao Na, madam bol rahe hain (Sam, please agree to launch the operation now that the prime minister iss telling you). Once the Cabinet meeting was over and all ministers had left the room, Gandhi called him back. He thought that she might be annoyed with him for his forthright and outspoken advice, she might be thinking of sacking him. Before she could speak, he asked the prime minister in case she wanted his resignation on health or any other grounds. To his utter surprise, she told him to sit down and explain in detail the reasons for his advice after which she agreed with his plan. He was a General who stood by his professional convictions and had the moral courage to call a spade a spade.

He narrated another incident where a minister addressed the then Director Military Operations by his surname without prefixing his rank. He had the courage to advise the minister that protocol demanded he either addressed the officer by his first name in case he had that relationship with him or prefix his rank with his surname. To some, these issues may seem very elementary, but they count a lot in the army where this rapport and relationship amongst the team members hold them together when bullets and shells are flying all around you.

Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw was a gentleman, a soldier, a soldiers General, a dynamic leader, and a peoples man who was a true professional, firm yet very kind and compassionate. He has lived in Indian citizens hearts and will continue to do so forever. It was such a pleasant way to learn values and leadership from the tallest leader of all times. We salute him on the occasion of Vijay Diwas.

The author, now retired, was head of Army Service Corps. He is a distinguished fellow at United Service Institution of India and a motivational and leadership speaker. 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 the realm of Indian politics, old-school analysts who studied Indian elections maintained that whenever a political party governs for two or three consecutive terms, the conventional wisdom of anti-incumbency sets in and the political challenger is bound to win. With this hopeful anticipation, a broader narrative was propagated within a certain section of the media, suggesting that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi would face defeat in all three Hindi heartland states, fail to improve its tally in Telangana, and this would serve as a precursor to 2024. In my considered analysis, this approach to interpreting Indian politics has surpassed its relevance in the Modi era, characterised by the entrenched pattern of pro-incumbency.

This notion has been challenged by Prime Minister Modi. Contrary to the narrative, the Modi era has witnessed a consistent trend of pro-incumbency becoming a habit.

Following his ascent to power in 2014, Prime Minister Modi exceeded popular expectations by securing victory in the 2019 General Elections with both a higher vote share and seat count than in 2014. Recalling our pre-poll estimate at Jan Ki Baat, where we predicted a majority verdict of 300+, it faced initial scepticism, necessitating several months until the 2019 verdict to substantiate our prediction. Political analysts well-versed in Narendra Modis governance and political strategies would affirm that his governance strategy, rooted in Sarvavyapi Vikas or Holistic Development, has been a constant factor since his tenure as the chief minister of Gujarat. This approach has not only strengthened Brand Narendra Modi but has also enabled the BJP to secure sweeping mandates in the Hindi heartland and an upward trajectory in Telangana.

In each of the statesMadhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Telanganathe BJP not only augmented its seat count but also increased its vote share. Conversely, the Congress failed to attract additional votes compared to 2018, while the BJP experienced an uptick in its vote share across all four states. This signifies a shift in voter allegiance, with individuals who did not support the BJP in 2018 choosing to do so in 2023. For instance, in Madhya Pradesh, the BJP secured 30 new seats not won in 2018; in Chhattisgarh, it secured tribal seats not won in 2018 or 2013; in Rajasthan, it demonstrated improved performance in Eastern Rajasthan where it lagged in 2018, and in Telangana, it garnered votes from areas previously absent in its support base in 2018.

This trend extends to the national level, as observed in the Lok Sabha elections of 2019. While the Congress consistently received approximately 10-11 crore votes in both the 2014 and 2019 General Elections since 2009, the BJP has witnessed a substantial increase in its tally, progressing from less than 8 crore votes in 2009 to 22 crore votes in 2019an approximate increment of 14 crore votes under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi since assuming office.

In essence, the electoral dynamics underscore a straightforward reality: each new voter exhibits a preference for casting their vote in favor of Prime Minister Modi over the Congress. Furthermore, the probability of garnering support from floating or non-committed voters significantly favours Prime Minister Modi over the Congress. This discernible trend underscores the enduring appeal and electoral magnetism that Prime Minister Modi holds, particularly among segments of the electorate previously considered neutral or unaligned.

The efficacy of Prime Minister Modis developmental initiatives, known as the Vikas Push, has become the cornerstone of garnering electoral support in terms of votes. Notably, the BJPs expanding footprint is evident through its success in reaching newer geographies and securing backing from segments previously considered averse to the party. This shift is particularly notable in Chhattisgarh, where the BJP secured more tribal votes than in 2018, in Madhya Pradesh where it garnered increased support from SC votes (a 32 per cent increase since the last election), and in Rajasthan, gaining votes from communities such as Gurjar and Meena, which it did not in 2018.

In aspirational districts across these states, the BJP triumphed in over 50 out of 81 constituencies, reflecting a noteworthy increase from the previous count of less than 30. Telangana witnessed a doubling of the BJPs vote share compared to the last Assembly elections.

These compelling data points culminate in a singular conclusion: Prime Minister Modi has successfully catapulted the BJP into a constantly expanding party, traversing new geographies and appealing to diverse voting groups. The partys commitment to addressing the concerns of both existing and potential supporters is evident in this Constant Expansion. This trajectory, made possible through impactful developmental measures, is underscored by real life instances echoing sentiments on the ground. For instance, during a post-election interaction with a taxi driver from Bihar, the sentiment resonated strongly in favour of Modi, citing improved infrastructure, economic development and global recognition.

I asked him, What do you think about Prime Minister Modi and BJPs victory in all three states? He replied matter-of-factly, Why will Prime Minister Modi not win, Sir? In my home state of Bihar, he has established factories, improved roads and is taking the country forward. If someone else becomes the prime minister, what is the guarantee that he will continue the work? Modi has improved Indias image globally.

This ground-level sentiment, cutting across caste, demography and geography, transforms any election Prime Minister Modi contests into a peoples election rather than merely a party-centric one.

As a psephologist, considering the current sentiment with over 60 per cent support from women, 45 per cent from farmers, 58 per cent from the poor and 50 per cent from the youth towards Prime Minister Modi, the prospect of a repeated and even more substantial mandate in 2024, surpassing the 2019 figures in both vote share and seat count, seems plausible. The resonance of Modis leadership is not just a political phenomenon but a testament to his widespread appeal and the transformative impact of his governance on the lives of the people.

The author is a journalist, psephologist and founder, Jan Ki Baat. 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 inevitable has happened. Hamas and Israel are at war again after a week-long fragile truce with the terrorist groups military wing Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades firing rockets at Tel Aviv.

The chances of a permanent ceasefire are remote with neither Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu willing to end the Gaza assault nor Hamas backing down.

The longer the fighting continues, the bigger the chances of it becoming a major regional war with a decreasing possibility for US President Joe Biden to maintain peace in the volatile region while supporting Americas decades-old staunchest West Asian ally.

Amid the steadfast support for Israel, Biden has a bigger headache which is becoming severe due to his stubbornness.

Americas stockpile of arms and ammunition is fast depleting. Still, Biden is not averse to arming Israel by evading, bypassing or changing laws despite the waning public support.

A November Reuters/Ipsos poll showed that only 32 per cent of Americans feel that the US should support militarily. Similarly, according to an October Economist/YouGov poll, only 39 per cent think sending weapons to Israel is a good idea.

In early November, the Republican-controlled House of Representatives passed a massive $14.5 billion military aid Bill for Israel, including replenishing its Iron Dome and Davids Sling missile defence systems. This was besides the regular $3.8 billion annual military assistance to Israel, the highest among other recipients.

From 1946 to 2022, Israel received $146 billion in bilateral assistance and missile defence funding, according to the US Agency for International Development.

Israels demands drain depleted US inventory

Americas weapons stock is already exhausted due to the Ukraine war. According to the Council on Foreign Relations, financial assistance worth $76.8 billion has been provided to Ukraine since the war, including weapons and equipment worth $23.5 billion.

A January Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) report warned of a potential massive shortage of 155 mm artillery rounds and man-portable air defence Stinger and anti-tank Javelin missiles.

At that time, the US produced 2,350 155 mm rounds a month, which can be increased to 40,000 by 2050. By July, Washington had supplied more than 2 million 155 mm rounds to Kyiv. The cluster bombs for Ukraine were a stopgap to buy time for increasing artillery production.

The Pentagon is struggling to replenish the current inventory of Stingers with an annual production of only 100 after sending 2,000 of them to Ukraine.

The annual production rate of 1,000 Javelins will take 12.5 years to rebuild the inventory.

Only 20 High Mobility Artillery Rockets Systems have been provided to Ukraine due to their low numbers. It would take three years to replace them.

Citing the CSIS report, Texas Republican senator John Cornyn said on an American Enterprise Institute webcast on 23 January Clearly, our industrial base is not engaged. The level of weapons production is a glaring problem.

In July, US Air Forces in Europe Commander General James Hecker mentioned the dangerously low stock of American weapons during a discussion in London.

Now, the American arms industry has reached an inflection point with the Hamas-Israel war.

On the face of it, the Biden administration defends its ability to arm both Ukraine and Israel. We can do both and we will do both, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin told the media in Brussels in October.

However, the situation has turned alarming with Israels increasing demand for the same weapons used by Ukraine155mm rounds, air-launched small-diameter bombs, joint direct attack munitions (JDAMs) and Hellfire missiles.

According to a November Bloomberg report, Israel has asked for 57,000 155 mm rounds, 2,000 Hellfires, 20,000 guns, 5,000 night vision devices, 3,000 grenades for exploding bunkers, 400 120 mm rounds and 75 of the new tactical military vehicles.

By October-end, 36,000 30 mm rounds, 1,800 bunker-busting bombs, around 3,500 night vision devices, 312 Iron Dome interceptors and two Iron Dome batteries had been supplied to Israel.

In fact, a team comprising Pentagon officials and officers from the armed services has been formed to search for ammunition to resupply Israel.

Austin might justify Americas involvement in two conflicts, but National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby admitted the shortage in October,  Right now, we can continue to support Israel and Ukraine. But you know, were certainly running out of runway.

Biden wants to arm Israel at all costs

Biden is changing or bypassing rules in two ways to arm Israel. The supplemental budget request of a $105 billion-dollar emergency weapons funding package sent to Congress reveals his tactics.

First, a relatively unknown and strategic depot of American arms and ammunition gives Israel a strategic military advantage over Hamas and Hezbollah. The massive stockpile on Israeli soil can be used without waiting for delivery and the US administration requiring the mandatory 60-day congressional notification.

Learning from the 1973 Yom Kippur blitzkrieg, which shocked Israel like the October 7 Hamas attack 50 years later, Ronal Reagan established the War Reserve Stockpile Ammunition-Israel (WRSA-I) in 1984. Managed by the United States European Command, it stores missiles, armoured vehicles and artillery ammunition.

Initially established to supply arms and ammunition to US forces immediately in a regional conflict, the depot proved to be a boon for Israel, which used it in the 2006 war with Hezbollah and in the 2014 conflict with Hamas.

According to a November 2020 Congressional Research Service report, the George W Bush Administration in 2006 did not use the emergency authority codified in the Arms Export Control Act, but rather allowed Israel to access the WRSA-I stockpile, valued at more than $3 billion. In July 2014, Israel used 120 mm tank rounds and 40 mm illumination rounds fired from grenade launchers stored in the depot.

In fact, the WRSA-I was used to arm Ukraine with hundreds of thousands of munitions.

Washington, DC-based Jewish Institute for National Security of America (JINSA), whose highest priority is to replenish and modernise the WRSA-I, states that preserving Israels qualitative military edge is a crucial goal.

JINSAs concerns arent limited to Hamas and Hezbollah. In case of an unexpected major war with Tehran, Israel will need abundant PGMs [precision-guided munitions] to compensate for limited defensive capabilities and prevail, it said in June.

The stockpile is falling dangerously short of meeting its stated purpose. Of particular concern is the stock of PGMs, especially JDAM tail kits to convert unguided bombs.

Californias Democratic representative Jimmy Panetta has also called for replenishing the WRSA-I stockpile to deter security threats posed by Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran and other regional malign actors.

Biden wants to remove all limits on Israels use of WRSA-I.

In the supplemental budget request letter, dated October 20, Office of Management and Budget director Shalanda D Young requested funding to aid Israels defence an unprecedented commitment to Israels security.

This funding will increase security assistance for Israel as it seeks to reestablish territorial security and deterrence and will bolster Israels ability to protect itself, she wrote.

In modifying requirements that apply to certain defence articles that the Department of Defence (DoD) transfers to Israel, the letter mentions Section 12001 of the Department of Defence Appropriations Act, 2005 as amended (Section 12001).

Under Section 12001, the DoD can transfer specified categories of arms and ammunition to Israel in exchange for certain concessions from the country subject to multiple restrictions. One of the restrictions is that defence items are either obsolete or surplus to DoD.

Besides, the president must notify the Congress, at least, 30 days before such a transfer.

In removing the restrictions, Biden wants to allow for the transfer of all categories of defence articles without the requirement that they be obsolete or surplus to DoD.

Besides, the DoD will have greater flexibility in determining the value of the concessions provided in exchange for the transfers.

The request also allows for shortening the 30-day prior notice period in extraordinary circumstances.

Bidens most radical waiver removes the monetary cap of $200 million per fiscal on WRSA-I in Section 514(b) of the Foreign Assistance Act, 1961.

According to The Intercept, every waiver would be permanent except for removing the spending cap, which is limited to the 2024 financial year.

In a nutshell, any arm or ammunition could be supplied to Israel without accountability and Congressional oversight.

The House has already passed legislation removing the restrictions. There is a high probability of the request passing through the Democrat-controlled Senate.

Unsurprisingly, the US maintains complete secrecy about the specific details of the arms and ammunition supplied to Israel.

Except for the Bloomberg report, nothing is known about the list as dozens of C-17s probably carrying munitions have landed at the Nevatim Air Base, Negev desert, The Intercept reported early last month.

During a press briefing on October 24, Pentagon press secretary Air Force Brigadier General Pat Ryder only mentioned precision-guided munitions, small diameter bombs, artillery, ammunition, Iron Dome interceptors and other critical equipment as part of the supplies to Israel.

Similarly, Kirby said in an 23 October press briefing that the US is being careful not to quantify or get into too much detail about what theyre [Israel] getting for their operational security purposes, of course.

Second, Biden wants the complete authority to approve grants in billions for Israel to spend on advanced weapons systems and other defence articles under the Foreign Military Financing (FMF) programme.

FMF, vital to supporting US coalition partners in the war on terrorism, is a critical foreign policy tool for promoting American interests globally by ensuring that coalition partners and friendly foreign governments are equipped and trained to work toward common security goals and share burdens in joint missions.

Under FMF, grants are provided for acquiring American defence equipment, services and training, promoting US national security.

According to the Department of State, These grants enable key allies and friends to improve their defence capabilities and foster closer military relationships between the US and recipient nations.

One of the FMF objectives is to assist the militaries of friendly countries and allies to procure US defence articles and services that strengthen legitimate self-defence capabilities and security needs.

Biden has asked for an additional $7.2 billion under FMF to remain available till September 30, 2025, of which $3.5 billion shall be used for responding to the situation in Israel and related expenses.

The letter states that $3.5 billion may granted to Israel to procure defence articles and defence services.

Biden wants to waive any congressional notification requirement applicable to these funds if he determines that extraordinary circumstances exist that impact the national security of the United States.

Due to Israels urgent need for FMF assistance, the request includes the authority to waive congressional notification requirements that would otherwise apply with respect to such assistance, the letter reads.

The amount is designated by the Congress as an emergency requirement pursuant to Section 251(b)(2)(A) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 as amended.

The White House believes that these additional funds would bolster Israels ability to protect itself against Hamas, a nonstate actor and US-designated foreign terrorist organisation.

Again, Biden wants to arm Israel without notifying the Congress, which will be clueless about the specifications of arms and ammunition supplied to Israel.

Aware that the war might continue for months, Biden wants funds flowing to Israel till, at least, September 2025.

A day before fighting resumed, Netanyahu said, Over the past few days, Ive been hearing this question: will Israel go back to fighting after maximising this phase of returning our hostages? So, my answer is unequivocal. Yes.

In October-end, Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant told the media that the ground offensive against Hamas could last for months. Even during the short truce, he said that fighting would resume with intensity for, at least, two more months.

Netanyahus senior adviser Mark Regev told CNN on Thursday that if Hamas fails to release 10 hostages daily, of course, the fighting can be resumed.

The US has provided Israel $158 billion in bilateral assistance and missile defence funding as of March 2023. When the two countries signed their third 10-year MoU in 2016 for $38 billion in military aid, one of the conditions was that Israel wouldnt seek additional funds from Congress beyond the amount granted annually in the package.

Israel is not only demanding more US weapons to wipe out Hamas, Biden also has dug his heels into bolstering military aid even by bypassing laws, accountability and Congressional oversight.

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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In Myanmar, the military regime is on the backfoot. Fighting has been ongoing for more than a month now. Three rebel groups had joined forces to form the brotherhood alliance that is now leading the offensive against the military junta. They started the rebellion as localised fighting in the north-eastern state of Shan, but now it has spread to almost every region of Myanmar.

The brotherhood alliance has met with success, and this has encouraged others. Other rebel groups have joined the fight against the junta. The Myanmar army is losing ground rapidly. Reports say more than 200 junta bases have been overrun. A large number of weapons have been looted. Morale in Myanmars army is low. Troops are surrendering in waves. Some have even defected and joined the rebel groups. And many soldiers continue to seek refuge in India.

Amidst all these developments, the top military generals of Myanmar are playing the blame game. They say the radical ethnic youth are the troublemakers; theyre the ones who broke the ceasefire, and theyre disturbing the countrys harmony. Moreover, the junta says that foreigners are working for rebel groups, apparently as drone experts, i.e., the army says the rebels have hired foreign drone experts. And the most recent blame is on banking staff, as the generals say that bankers are giving state funds to rebels. But questions arise: Why has the Myanmar army failed to stop this?

Junta is now calling on deserters to return to the barracks. Announcements have been made for soldiers who have deserted or gone absent without leave. Theyve all been asked to return to their barracks. Even veterans are being recalled; if they dont turn up, theyll lose their pension, as the junta has threatened to suspend it. All of these sound like desperate measures.

For the first time since their coup, the junta is facing an existential threat. They have been fighting rebel forces for decades and they have almost always been successful, but this time it looks tough. The junta has their backs against the wall. Though they are not done yet: They have launched a massive fightback against the rebels.

On Dec 1, two jet fighters dropped cluster bombs at Namkham Town, Northern Shan State in #Myanmar. The International community must act to hold the military junta to account for committing crimes against the people of Myanmar. #WhatsHappeningInMyanmar pic.twitter.com/wkkU0qfyA8  Spokesperson, NUG President Office (@NUGPressSPOX) December 2, 2023

There are reports of fighter jets dropping cluster munition, and an increase in the number of bombings. The military junta is pushing back hard and the rebels know this.

The military cant defeat us on the ground. So, they have used many air strikes and heavy weapons to take control of Loikaw. The military has lost many soldiers and they are weak right now. We are only afraid of their air strikes, said Lin Lin, the spokesperson of Loikaw local PDF.

The airstrikes have slowed down the rebels but they havent stalled the fighting. Townships are still being taken over by them. In the northern Sagaing state, there is already a change in leadership, the junta has been replaced in a town called Kawlin. One of the largest townships in the state. Rebel groups have installed civilian leadership there. Kawlin has become the first district-level town to return to civilian rule. But this has come at a cost. The fighting has left most of the towns deserted.

Loikaw residents have fled from the township and only 3 or 4 out of 14 town quarters still have some civilians there. And we can say 70 per cent of Loikaws population are displaced right now, said spokesperson, Loikaw local PDF.

Hundreds of thousands have been displaced, and the fighting seems to be nowhere near an end. Rebel groups are confident while Myanmars military is struggling to fight on multiple fronts. The juntas top general blames ethnic groups for this. He is calling on the rebels to solve their problems politically. But he made no mention of discontent against the military regime. The situation is precarious.

Myanmar faces an uncertain future, and its neighbours are being drawn into the chaos. India has already opened its doors to refugees; Thailand too has taken in hundreds. China, on the other hand, wants nothing to do with this mess. They carried out a short live-fire military exercise near the border with Myanmar. And now they have closed their doors. The international community remains silent on this, while caught in the middle are civilians who continue to suffer.

Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Maya Angelou once said, I believe that every person is born with talent. Thats a generous thought and might be true, but capitalism strongly disagrees. It claims that only the best of human capital qualifies as talent.

Lets understand this in the context of the workforce. Talent refers to high-performing and high-potential employees. Every country needs them. They are hard-working, high-reaching workers. But not all countries have them equally.

This brings us to the global talent competitiveness index, which is an annual list covering 134 countries. It looks at how countries grow, attract, and retain talent. According to this index, rich nations have always dominated the talent landscape. For example, Switzerland tops the index every year, and this year was no different. It got the best of human capital, followed by Singapore, the US, Denmark, the Netherlands, Finland, Norway, Australia, Sweden, and the UK, respectively.

But all hope is not lost. Developing nations are making big strides too. The biggest was made by Indonesia among Asian countries. It climbed 14 spots in the last five years which is a long jump. Indonesia achieved this by improving quality of life and job sustainability.

However, not all Asian countries were so lucky, for example India, which received the worst ranking among Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) nations. India is ranked 103rd, sandwiched between Algeria and Guatemala. Remember that India is the worlds most populous nation and an economic powerhouse. But countries like Rwanda, Paraguay, Tunisia, Namibia, Bolivia, Ghana, and Gambia are all ranked higher than India.

This is not a good look for the worlds fifth largest economy. According to the report, India is not able to attract talent domestically. People under the age of 25 account for more than 40 per cent of the population. But almost half of them (45.8 per cent) were unemployed as of last year.

According to reports as much as 39.3 per cent of recruiters face challenges in finding the right talent for the right job. That is about 40 per cent! But thats not all, this problem goes beyond Indias borders, India is not being able to attract talent from overseas either.

Also, there is the problem of high attrition. Reports say that the median attrition rate of broad-based index or BSE 100 firms in India, stood at 17 per cent this year. As per Studies, If India wants to hit the four trillion economy mark, it needs to add about 100 million workers. This is a big ask but it is not impossible. India is brimming with potential. It has produced world renowned education centres, also some of the worlds top bosses including Microsofts Satya Nadella, and Alphabets Sundar Pichai. This shows that the situation is not entirely bleak. It simply needs a pick-me-up.

It may sound ironic, but if India needs to cultivate its talent, it must work hard.

Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
In the context of international diplomacy, India and Kenya find themselves at the forefront of strengthened ties as Kenyan President William Ruto embarks on a significant three-day state visit to India. This visit holds historical significance as it marks President Rutos first official visit to the country since assuming office.

Historical context

The story begins in the 17th century when Indians first set foot on the shores of East Africa. At that time, British rule was firmly establishing itself in India and the British Empire had a growing need for business ventures and infrastructure. Indians arrived in East Africa for various reasons, including business endeavours, service in the British army and contributions to the construction of railways and other critical services.

Indian community in Kenya

Fast forward to the present and Indians have become the 44th tribe in Kenya, constituting a substantial community of nearly 100,000 people. This influential community has not only achieved economic success in the East African nation but has also formed enduring ties over generations. These people-to-people connections have played a crucial role in strengthening the relationship between India and Kenya.

President Rutos current visit to India is marked by ceremonial welcomes, paying respects at the Raj Ghat to Mahatma Gandhi and engaging in discussions aimed at bolstering the already significant ties between the two nations. This visit holds special significance as it is the first by a Kenyan president in six years.

The focus of the visit is on reinforcing bilateral relations in various domains. India has pledged a $250 million credit line to Kenya to modernise its agriculture sector, recognising the importance of agriculture to both economies. Additionally, the two nations are addressing the shared challenge of terrorism, with plans for closer cooperation between Indian and Kenyan defence forces to share information, experiences and intelligence.

Economic collaboration

Trade and economic collaboration take centre stage as India emerges as one of Kenyas largest trading partners. President Ruto is set to attend a business investment summit in India, aiming to attract more investment and fostering economic growth. Both countries have signed five MOUs covering sectors such as agriculture and healthcare, highlighting the comprehensive nature of their collaboration.

As India and Kenya build upon their colonial past, this visit serves as a testament to their shared future of friendship and cooperation. From historical ties rooted in the 17th century to the present-day collaborations in agriculture, defence and trade, the India-Kenya relationship is poised to flourish in the years to come. President Rutos visit symbolises not only a continuation of diplomatic ties but also the exploration of new avenues for mutual growth and prosperity.

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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Staying with the Russian president, his bet in Ukraine is finally paying off. It has taken more than 600 days, but its happening. Western countries are losing interest in the war. Ukraines funding is about to stop. If it does, it is game over for Kyiv.

The United States (US), biggest supporter of Ukraine, has given some 40 billion dollars in military aid to Ukraine in two years. But the US lawmakers, especially the republican ones, say no more. President Joe Biden had presented a budget plan to the US Congress asking for 106 billion dollars which included funds for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. The Congress did give money to Israel, but not in the case of Ukraine. Republicans have been pushing an America first policy meaning, no spending on foreign wars.

A White House official has written to congressional leaders. Her warning is pretty dire: If US financial support ends, it would kneecap Ukraine on the battlefield, not only putting at risk the gains Ukraine has made, but increasing the likelihood of Russian military victories which in simple words means  Ukraine will lose. And there is no back-up fund or support.

The pentagon has used up 97 per cent of its allotted funds. The state department has used up 100 per cent. So by the end of this year aid will stop. There will be no more money to give.

Without congressional action, the administration will run out of resources by the end of the year to procure more weapons and equipment for Ukraine and to provide equipment from US military stocks without impacting our own military readiness, said Jake Sullivan, US National Security Adviser.

Congress has to decide whether to continue to support the fight for freedom in Ukraine, as part of the 50 nation coalition that President Biden has built, or whether Congress will ignore the lessons we have learned from history and let Putin prevail.

Without US aid, its just a matter of time. Kyiv could fall within weeks or months which brings us to two important questions: First, can congress still strike a deal? And second, what about Ukraines allies in Europe?

Congress can strike a deal as we have seen last-minute talks on the debt ceiling. No reason the same cannot happen for Ukraine. Plus, the republicans have shown their cards, they want tougher immigration and border laws. If they get that, they will green light the money. So its a question of negotiating hard  a question of who blinks first.

As for the second question, the answer is more complicated. In the US you have to convince two parties. In Europe, you have to convince 27 members of the EU, who are right now negotiating a budget that includes a 54 billion dollar fund for Ukraine. Its a long term fund, the idea behind which is to keep Ukraine afloat until 2027. But there is a problem that not everyone is onboard. Hungarys prime minister Viktor Orban is opposing the proposal. He is using his position to gain an advantage. Brussels is supposed to give 24 billion dollars to Hungary. Orban needs that money, but the EU leadership has put a freeze on it. The EU says Hungary has rule-of-law issues and Budapest will have to fix that first. So Orban flips the strategy. He now threatens to block the EU budget instead. Its a classic case of brinkmanship. But for Ukraine, its a matter of survival. The winter has already set in and Russia has begun striking Ukraines energy infrastructure.

If foreign funding stops, Kyiv will fall and Putin knows this. In fact, he knew it all along. Putin was betting on Western support and unity crumbling, and he was right about that, but what he got wrong was the time table. Does that mean it is game over? Well, this is early December and we have an entire month before time runs out. In politics, one month can be a long time. The Congress could still strike a new deal, the EU could still accommodate Hungary, so the war isnt over just yet, but it has exposed the drawbacks of this Western alliance  of how fragile the support is. The regime in Kyiv should take note of that.

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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Apple has informed the Indian government about potential disruptions to its local production targets if New Delhi proceeds with adopting the European Unions mandate for universal charging ports on existing iPhone models, as per a report by Reuters.

The US tech giant is actively lobbying for an exemption or a delay in the implementation of the rule.

India is considering the adoption of a European Union regulation that requires smartphones to have a universal USB-C charging port.

Discussions with manufacturers have been ongoing, and the plan is to implement this requirement in India by June 2025, six months after the EU deadline. While other manufacturers, including Samsung, have agreed to comply with Indias plan, Apple is resisting the move.

Apple has long featured a proprietary lightning connector port on its iPhones. The EU estimates that a standardized charging solution could save consumers approximately $271 million (approximately Rs. 2,259 crore), and India contends that the change will reduce e-waste and benefit users.

According to meeting minutes from a closed-door session on November 28 chaired by Indias IT ministry, Apple urged officials to exempt existing iPhone models from the regulations.

Apple cautioned that failure to do so would hinder the companys ability to meet production targets set under Indias production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme, a significant initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The PLI scheme offers fiscal incentives to electronic manufacturers in India for new investments and incremental phone sales each year. Apple suppliers, such as Foxconn, have extensively used the scheme to expand iPhone manufacturing in the country.

During the meeting, Apples regulatory and product compliance executives expressed concerns about meeting PLI targets if the regulations applied to earlier models of mobile phones. The IT ministry, however, decided to review Apples request and make a decision at a later date.

While Apple did not provide specific details about the production impact in the meeting, analysts believe that India is a crucial growth market for the company.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo estimates that 12-14 per cent of iPhone production in 2023 will come from India, potentially rising to 25 per cent next year.

In terms of market share, Apple currently holds 6 per cent of Indias smartphone market, compared to about 2 per cent four years ago. Apple suppliers, manufacturing most iPhone 12, 13, 14, and 15 models in India for local sales and exports, have expanded their facilities, according to Counterpoint Research estimates.

However, Apples older generation iPhones remain popular in Indias price-conscious market. Prabhu Ram, Head of the Industry Intelligence Group at CyberMedia Research, notes that Apples fortunes in India have primarily been tied to older generation iPhones.

The EUs charging port regulations are scheduled to take effect in December 2024, with India aiming for compliance by June 2025. Apple assured Indian officials in the meeting that it can adhere to this timeline if existing models are exempted from the rules but would need an additional 18 months beyond 2024 if they are not.

(With inputs from agencies)
In todays Rajya Sabha session, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, presented a comprehensive address shedding light on the escalating issue of vehicle pollution in India.

The minister outlined key strategies involving hydrogen-driven and electric vehicles to combat the rising carbon footprint.

Nitin Gadkari said, It is absolutely true that the emission of CO2 in our country is from the transport sector and it is increasing day by day, this is a matter of concern. 330 metric tons of CO2 emission every year, it is a very dangerous problem. 85 percent of the fuel in our country is fossil fuel which is imported and the cost of import is Rs 16 lakh crore. This is a very serious problem from the point of view of both economics and pollution, and it is petrol and diesel which need to be made special. The Indian government has made a lot of efforts for the pollution that is talked about here and has given it priority.

He also added, India earlier was at 5th position in automobile manufacturing, but today our number has become 3rd. First is America, second is China, then we are. We also defeated Japan in this. But one thing is also that its growth rate has also increased. Total vehicles account for 9.91 per cent, and cars and four-wheelers account for 20 per cent. And this industry is giving maximum GST to the Government of India and State Government and 4.5 crore jobs have been created here.

The Minister articulated the Indian governments concerted efforts to address the pollution challenge, placing it as a top priority. Despite being the third-largest automobile manufacturer globally, with a commendable growth trajectory, Gadkari acknowledged a slowdown in the industrys growth rate.

The automobile sector, encompassing cars and four-wheelers, contributes significantly to the nations GST revenue and supports 4.5 crore jobs.

Expressing satisfaction with ongoing experiments involving various alternative fuels, Gadkari demonstrated the governments dedication to sustainable mobility and environmental responsibility.

As the nation grapples with the dual challenge of economic growth and environmental preservation, Gadkaris address signalled a decisive move towards a greener and more sustainable future for Indias transportation sector.

(With inputs from agencies)
Just days after the US showcased one of their most powerful microwave weapons that can jam signals over a large area, Chinese military scientists and industry engineers claim to have developed a microwave source for drones that surpasses anything currently available worldwide, potentially altering the balance of military power permanently.

The breakthrough, detailed in a peer-reviewed paper published in the High Power Laser and Particle Beams journal, involves a powerful yet compact microwave weapon designed to fit various drone models.

Led by Professor Li Jianbing and his team at the PLA Strategic Support Force Information Engineering University, the researchers highlight the versatility of the microwave source, suggesting it can be used as a radar while jamming the enemys radar and communication systems.

The compact design allows the weapon to be customized to fit on different drones seamlessly, offering a plug-and-play capability.

Unlike conventional small microwave sources, which often have limited output and bandwidth, the new technology is described as a game-changer. It can operate over an ultra-wide frequency range and compete with larger weapons, such as professional electronic warfare aircraft.

The researchers claim that the drone-mounted microwave source can perform multiple functions, including radar operation, target monitoring on the ground, in water, or in the sky, and electronic jamming.

The team asserts that they have achieved a technological milestone by successfully integrating various functions into a small package.

The microwave source is said to work synergistically, overcoming challenges that arise when different components, such as radar transceivers and jamming devices, operate simultaneously.

The weapons core component is a device called the travelling wave tube, a vacuum where electrons generate microwave power. While this technology has traditionally been used as a microwave generator, Chinese scientists have repurposed it into a supersensitive antenna, eliminating the need for a separate radar on the drone.

This innovation, coupled with the compact design, makes the technology a potent tool for electronic warfare.

China, a major player in drone production, is leveraging its advancements in unmanned aircraft technology to stir up an arms race.

The affordability and capability of Chinese military drones, equipped with powerful microwave weapons, could provide a strategic advantage, particularly in regions like the South China Sea and Taiwan. The researchers suggest that these drones armed with microwave weapons could disrupt or deceive enemy radars, enhancing Chinas defence capabilities in contested maritime territories.

The Chinese military aims to expand the application of these microwave weapons by integrating them into hypersonic aircraft and other near-space platforms, potentially extending Chinas influence in electronic warfare globally.

The collaboration between the Chinese military and industries indicates a concerted effort to deploy these advanced technologies on an expanding drone fleet.

(With input from agencies)
Astrobiologists are exploring the possibility of alien life within our solar system, speculating that hidden oceans beneath the icy crusts of moons orbiting Jupiter and Saturn may harbour life forms.

While Mars is accessible to exploration by rovers and landers, these distant water worlds remain beyond our reach. To change this, researchers recently collaborated to design a groundbreaking mission using a proposed probe called a Cryobot.

The Cryobot is designed as a cylindrical robot, capable of heating up ice to drill through it, providing access to the liquid water oceans below.

A workshop held at the California Institute of Technology in February gathered over 40 researchers to refine the technological concept.

The participants delved into the necessary power, thermal, mobility, and communication systems for such a mission, aiming to overcome the challenges posed by these mysterious oceans.

Scientists take seriously the prospect of extraterrestrial life, focusing on places in our solar system where liquid water is likely to exist.

The Cryobot concept involves a lander deploying a cylindrical probe to break through the icy surface using hot-water drilling. The Cryobot would be equipped with a 10-kilowatt nuclear power system, protected within a structure to withstand the deep oceans high pressure.

To address potential hazards, the workshop participants highlighted the need for a demonstration of hazard mitigation systems as a priority for future work on the concept.

They also identified the necessity of a communication link between the Cryobot and a surface lander, exploring options such as radio, acoustic, and magnetic transceivers, as movements in the ice shelf could disrupt a physical connection.

Jupiters moon Europa and Saturns moon Enceladus are prime targets for astrobiologists, with NASA and ESA planning missions to explore these intriguing celestial bodies.

NASAs Europa Clipper, set to launch in October 2024, will inform the design of a Cryobot probe, while the Enceladus Orbilander aims to investigate signs of potential life in the subsurface ocean.

Scientists have recently discovered phosphorus, a key ingredient for life, emanating from Enceladus, heightening the interest in exploring these alien oceans.

Although it will be years before a probe touches down on these icy moons, the recent workshop participants affirm that the Cryobot mission concept remains scientifically compelling and is the most plausible near-term approach to directly search for life in situ on an ocean world, according to NASA.

The prospect of exploring alien oceans is becoming a tangible reality as technology advances and missions to these distant moons are planned.

(With inputs from agencies)
Elon Musk, the owner-CTO of X has lambasted the presidents of Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology after they declined to denounce the calls for violence against Jews in their respective campuses, during their Congressional questioning.

Musk, who himself was accused of anti-Semitism a few weeks ago, for posting his support for a different antisemitic post, blasted the three heads of the university for trying to sound politically correct and trying to find nuance in something like genocide.

Let me help them out here: Calling for the genocide [death] of anyone obviously constitutes harassment. https://t.co/GH7lXLxxd6  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 6, 2023



The inquiry, led by the Republican-led House Committee on Education and the Workforce, delved into their responses to alleged antisemitic incidents following the Israel-Hamas conflict triggered by Hamas October 7 attack on Israel and subsequent military actions in Gaza.

The aftermath of the October 7 events has sparked nationwide tensions, leading to protests and instances of violence in the United States. Reports indicate a significant surge in both antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents since the conflict unfolded.

A recent joint report by the Anti-Defamation League and Hillel International revealed a notable decline in the sense of safety among Jewish students on campuses. Prior to October 7, a majority felt physically and emotionally secure, but those numbers have dropped to 46% and 33%, respectively.

Harvards Claudine Gay, UPenns Elizabeth Magill, and MITs Sally Kornbluth, who assumed their presidential roles either this year or the last, testified for several hours. They condemned the rise in antisemitic incidents and defended their administrations responses. Notably, the education leaders acknowledged the parallel surge in Islamophobia and committed to addressing various forms of hate.

During the congressional hearing on antisemitism, the presidents of Harvard, MIT, and Penn faced a crucial question regarding their universitys stance on calling for the genocide of Jews. The question from Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, sought to determine whether such calls violated the respective universitys code of conduct or rules against bullying and harassment.

The responses from Presidents Gay, Magill, and Kornbluth, as detailed in tweets by Bill Ackman, indicated a concerning moral stance. The response from the university leader, perhaps intended to be nuanced, ended up being tone-deaf, and highly problematic. The three basically said, Depends on the context and if the speech transforms into actual conduct, specifically the act of killing Jews.

Sharing Ackmans post, Musk wrote emphatically, Calling for the genocide [death] of anyone obviously constitutes harassment.

This exchange, characterized by the presidents conditional responses, has been described as potentially one of the most extraordinary testimonies in Congress, particularly on a topic as grave as genocide.

(With input from agencies)
In a decisive move against financial fraud, the Government of India has launched a comprehensive initiative to ban over 100 Chinese-operated investment scam websites that have been preying on Indian citizens, in a fashion similar to the predatory loan apps previously traced back to China.

Although the facade of these investment scam sites presented an Indian identity, investigations revealed that the proceeds ultimately flowed into the hands of Chinese operators. In a report by News18 that cites sources in the government, the Ministry of Home Affairs has formally communicated with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to enforce the blocking of these websites.

The identification of these fraudulent platforms was a result of extensive efforts by central agencies, involving multiple analyses that prompted the government to initiate the process of banning them. Additional sites are likely to be added to the ban list in the coming weeks.

These websites were found to be intricately linked to multiple bank accounts, with funds being transferred between accounts to confound investigating agencies. The money, in turn, was converted into cryptocurrency to further obfuscate the trail.

Concerns about such scams affecting the countrys financial system were raised by various states, prompting the government to take proactive measures.

Hyderabad Police uncovered one of the largest scams of this nature, where a Chinese-operated scheme amassed approximately Rs 712 crore. Victims were enticed through the Telegram app with promises of lucrative part-time jobs. A complainant informed the Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police that he fell victim to a Rate and Review job posted on Telegram.

Initially, victims engaged in simple tasks, investing small amounts and completing assignments for promised profits. Gradually, they found themselves ensnared in larger investments, lured by deceptive assurances of substantial returns, ultimately falling prey to the scam.

These fraudulent activities increasingly exploit instant messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram for their operations. Notably, some cryptocurrency wallet transactions associated with this fraud were traced back to a Hezbollah wallet, according to Hyderabad police officials. Hezbollah is a Lebanese militia group.

Another instance of fraud was reported in Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram, where a victim lost approximately Rs 1.2 crore to Chinese scammers. Similar cases have also been reported in Uttarakhand and Delhi.

CloudSEK, a cybersecurity company, had a month ago revealed in an investigation that scammers are successfully evading detection by law enforcement agencies with the assistance of Chinese payment gateways and Indian money mules.

A notable trend weve observed is scammers exploiting Chinese payment gateways due to their relative ease of use and limited regulatory scrutiny. These gateways offer a convenient bridge to funnel funds outside India, leveraging sophisticated techniques that blur jurisdictional lines, making it challenging to track and intercept the money trail, commented Sparsh Kulshrestha, a senior security analyst.

In recent years, the Government of India has taken action against approximately 250 Chinese apps, citing concerns related to the sovereignty, integrity, defence, security, and public order of the country.

Popular apps such as TikTok, Xender, Shein, and Camscanner, with millions of downloads in India, were among those banned. Authorities argued that these apps were allegedly collecting sensitive user data and seeking unnecessary permissions, with servers in foreign nations misusing the acquired data.

(With inputs from agencies)
In an announcement on Wednesday, NVIDIAs CEO, Jensen Huang, revealed the companys close collaboration with the US government to ensure that its new chips intended for the Chinese market adhere to export restrictions.

The California-based AI chip designer has held a dominant position, capturing over 90 per cent of Chinas $7 billion AI chip market. However, recent US curbs on chip exports are expected to open avenues for Chinese competitors.

Earlier reports from Reuters indicated that NVIDIA had informed its Chinese customers of a delay in launching a new AI chip focused on the Chinese market, now slated for the first quarter of the coming year.

While Huang did not confirm the Reuters article, he emphasized NVIDIAs concerted efforts to align its products with US regulations during a press conference in Singapore.

Huang stated, NVIDIA has been working very closely with the US government to create products that comply with its regulations. Our plan now is to continue to work with the government to come up with a new set of products that comply with the new regulations that have certain limits.

He acknowledged the need for market input in this process and acknowledged Huawei as a formidable competitor.

NVIDIA had previously warned of a substantial decline in fourth-quarter sales in China following the implementation of the new US rules.

Huang noted that while China traditionally contributed around 20 per cent of NVIDIAs revenue, predicting the impact of the new US export restrictions on this percentage remained challenging.

In a separate development, Huang revealed ongoing discussions with Singapore regarding potential significant investments. NVIDIA is also exploring collaboration with the city-state to contribute to the development of its large language model, Sealion.

Singapores Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) recently announced a S$70 million ($52 million) initiative to create Southeast Asias first large language model. Huang highlighted Singapores vibrant AI ecosystem and its role as a major data centre for various Asian markets.

(With inputs from agencies)
A former Justice Department official under Donald Trump claimed Tuesday that if the former president is re-elected, his government will react against members of the media criminally or civilly.

Kash Patel, who was previously the Defence Departments chief of staff and served on the National Security Council, made the remark on Steve Bannons podcast. He said that, in a second Trump administration, We will go out and find the conspirators not just in government, but in the media, over the 2020 election, which Trump lost to Democrat Joe Biden.

Trump and his supporters have consistently claimed that the election was rigged, despite the fact that several federal and local officials, a lengthy number of judges, senior former campaign aides, and even his own attorney general have all stated that there is no proof of the alleged fraud. Trump has made retribution a prominent component of his campaign platform as he seeks a second term in office.

In a sternly worded response, Trumps team distanced itself from Patels remarks, claiming that proclamations like this have nothing to do with them.

The campaign declined to comment on whether Trump is contemplating the measures mentioned by Patel.

Patel is a fellow at the Center for Renewing America, a conservative think tank that is part of a network of conservative groups that is preparing for a possible second White House term for Trump or any conservative who aligns with their views.

In his interview with Bannon, Patel said: Were going to come after the people in the media who lied about American citizens who helped Joe Biden rig presidential elections. Were going to come after you, whether its criminally or civilly. Well figure that out. But yeah, were putting you all on notice.

Trump has long targeted the media, labeling news organizations as Fake News and the Enemy of the People, a phrase linked to Soviet dictator Josef Stalin.

In a post on his Truth social network in September, Trump repeated both phrases and vowed to investigate NBC News and MSNBC for Country Threatening Treason and try to curb their access to the airwaves.

I say up front, openly, and proudly, that when I WIN the Presidency of the United States, they and others of the LameStream Media will be thoroughly scrutinized for their knowingly dishonest and corrupt coverage of people, things, and events, Trump said in the post. Why should NBC, or any other of the corrupt & dishonest media companies, be entitled to use the very valuable Airwaves of the USA, FREE? They are a true threat to Democracy and are, in fact, THE ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE! The Fake News Media should pay a big price for what they have done to our once great Country.

In the interview, Bannon suggested Patel might be a possible director of the CIA if Trump wins another term.

The Trump campaign did not respond to a question about whether Patel was being considered for a role as CIA director.

Patel was a guest at Trumps kickoff for his 2024 presidential campaign last year at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. In June, he attended Trumps speech at his Bedminster resort following the former presidents appearance in court on federal charges he mishandled classified documents.
US State Secretary Antony Blinken and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone call on Wednesday to discuss the Israel-Hamas war and stressed the need to de-escalate the conflict.

According to the US State Department, Blinken reiterated the imperative of all parties working to prevent the conflict from spreading.

In response, Wang Yi said that about the war between Israel and Hamas, the top priority is to cease fire and end the war as soon as possible.

Major countries must adhere to fairness and justice, uphold objectivity and impartiality, demonstrate calm and rationality, and make every effort to cool down the situation and prevent larger-scale humanitarian disasters, Wang said, according to the Chinese foreign ministry.

During the call with Blinken, Wang also reiterated Beijings call for a two-state solution, stressing any arrangement involving the future of Palestine must reflect the will of the Palestinian people.

China is willing to work with all parties to make efforts to this end, he said.

The US State Department said that Blinken also raised recent attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, describing them as an unacceptable threat to maritime security and international law that all nations have an obligation to uphold.

With inputs from AFP
Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday, coinciding with the United Nations COP28 climate talks hosted in Dubai. The planned visit was announced despite the President facing an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court over the war in Ukraine.

Neither Saudi Arabia nor the UAE has signed the ICC treaty, meaning they dont face any obligation to detain Putin over the warrant accusing him of being personally responsible for the abductions of children from Ukraine during his war on the country.

A readout on Putins trip from the state-run Tass news agency published early Wednesday offered no suggestion Putin might come to the COP28 site, instead quoting Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov saying hed land and have a meeting at the palace and one-on-one talks with Emirati leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The visit comes after COP28 saw a parade of Western leaders including U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and others backing Ukraine speak at the summit. So did Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, long a Putin ally.

The U.N.s Framework Convention on Climate Changes spokesperson Alexander Saier said at a press conference that he is not aware that Mr. Putin will come to the conference, but I would also need to check the host country with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He declined to immediately answer whether U.N. police would be obligated to make an arrest.

The Emirati organization committee for COP28 referred questions to the UAEs Foreign Ministry, which similarly did not immediately respond. The UAE repeatedly feted the now-deposed Sudanese leader Omar al-Bashir in the past despite an ICC warrant seeking his arrest over charges of genocide and crimes against humanity in Darfur.

Putin last visited the UAE in 2019, receiving a warm welcome from Sheikh Mohammed, then the crown prince of Abu Dhabi. In the time since, however, the world has greatly changed.

The Russian president isolated himself during the coronavirus pandemic. He launched an invasion targeting Ukraine in February 2022, a grinding war that continues today and has been a topic for Ukrainian diplomats at the COP28 talks.

Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war remains a major concern for the Mideast, particularly the UAE, which reached diplomatic recognition with Israel in 2020. Recent attacks by Yemens Iranian-backed Houthi rebels also threaten commercial shipping in the Red Sea as Irans nuclear program continues it rapid advances since the collapse of the 2016 nuclear deal.

Putin is scheduled to meet with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Thursday for what Ushakov has described as a rather lengthy conversation. The two countries have been discussing ways to get around the Western sanctions targeting them.

Putin will travel to Saudi Arabia and meet with powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the one-day trip, Ushakov said. Those discussions likely will focus on Moscows other major concern in the Middle East  oil.

Russia is part of OPEC+, which is a group of cartel members and other nations that have managed production to try and boost crude oil prices. Last week, the group expanded some output cuts into next year and brought up-and-coming oil supplier Brazil into the fold. Benchmark Brent crude traded Wednesday around $77 a barrel, down from nearly $100 in September, over concerns about a weakening economy worldwide.

With inputs from AP.
Following a spike in antisemitic and anti-Muslim attacks throughout the continent, the European Commission promised on Wednesday to provide additional funding to safeguard places of worship and stricter regulations for social media companies.

Europe is experiencing an alarming increase in hate speech and hate crime and evidence shows that Jewish and Muslim communities are particularly affected, the commission said in a statement.

The commission announced that it would augment funding for safeguarding houses of worship by 30 million euros, which would include an additional 5 million euros ($5.4 million) to tackle the growing danger of antisemitic incidents.

According to Commission Vice-President Margaritis Schinas, in the first fortnight following Hamas October 7 attack on Israel, anti-Semitic occurrences in Austria surged 300% over 2022, while in the Netherlands, they increased 800% over the previous months average.

In addition to the recently imposed harsher regulation for large online platforms, the Commission stated that it would press for stronger regulations to combat illegal hate speech online under a code of conduct agreed with online platforms, to be ratified within the next three months.

The present code of conduct was established in 2016 after Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Microsoft pledged to address hate speech online in Europe within a day. Since then, more platforms have joined it, including LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.

When questioned about particular DSA activities, Vera Jourova, vice president of the Commission, stated that the organisation was gathering information and proof that may show some of the very large online platforms are or might not be fully compliant with the requirements.

These platforms are now receiving letters with a concrete set of questions stemming from our findings and observation of what we see online, she stated.

If a company is found to be in violation of the DSA, it may be fined up to 6% of its worldwide revenue, and repeat offenders may not be allowed to operate in Europe at all.

The Commission declared that it would enhance support for fact checkers in the EU and the Arab speaking world, and that it would promote training for journalists on respecting media norms and identifying hate speech.

(With agency inputs)
Kenyan President William Ruto was on a two-day visit to India during which he held several bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two leaders talked about strengthening India-Kenya ties.

Palki Sharma: President Ruto, welcome to India. How are you doing, Sir?

William Ruto: Im good. Thank you very much. It was a wonderful visit to India. Im truly grateful to the government, people, Prime Minister, President of India for receiving me and for all the conversations weve had, and all the discussions weve had. I am very confident that its going to be a new chapter in India-Kenya relations.

Palki Sharma: Tell me about your conversations and meeting with Prime Minister Modi. What is your equation with him?

William Ruto: We had a wonderful conversation with Prime Minister Modi. I have a lot of admiration for Prime Minister Modi the way he has managed to pick up India, and the way he is focused on matters that affect common people, and the way he believes, like me, in bottom-up you know, what we are trying to do what benefits the majority of citizens. So, we had a robust conversation on a wide ranging subjects, issues that are of mutual benefit between Kenya and India, ranging from agriculture.

We are great agricultural countries, both Kenya and India, and we discussed about what we can do with the programme that I have in Kenya, how I can work with India to escalate some of the things we want to do in agricultural mechanisation, vaccine manufacture, training using the leather institute here and the footwear institute here for our leather programme in Kenya.

What we could do between our two dairy boards. Already, theres been an interaction between our two dairy boards and we have agreed on how they are going to work together on manufacture of vaccines, on working on genetics for our breeds, and also for manufacture of agricultural equipment.

We have agreed on what we can do around trade in agricultural commodities. For the first time, we are exporting avocados to India from two months ago. There are some tariff negotiations that Prime Minister Modi has agreed to consider. At the moment, avocados from Kenya are attracting about 30 per cent tariff. He has agreed to look into that so that we can use it to balance the trade between Kenya and India.

We have agreed with him also on the programme we have on universal health coverage in Kenya. There is a lot we can learn in the health space from India. India is a great country on health matters. Many Kenyans come to India to look for medical attention. And, we have agreed on how we can work on digitisation, telemedicine. We already have a programme in Kenya for digitising health services.

Weve already passed new legislation that will anchor our health provision in Kenya. We have agreed on how we can partner and also build capacity for our medical personnel. India has great experience. Weve agreed that in Kenya we are going to reduce the bureaucracy to allow more Indian specialists to work with their Kenyan counterparts in our referral hospitals, both public and private.

Weve also agreed that, we will eliminate bureaucracy for Kenyan health professionals, nurses, clinical officers, doctors to come for short courses in Indiathree months, six months and one year. That will go a very long way in actualising my plan on universal health coverage and making sure that we deliver health, especially from the bottom, going up.

As you are aware, we have this programme in Kenya, which is truly bottom-up. We have just enrolled 100, 000 community health workers in villages.

We also had a robust conversation about digital government. India has made huge strides in making sure that they can deliver government service efficiently, cost effectively, and also eliminating bureaucracy and pilferage and corruption. That is precisely what I want to do in Kenya. Already, we have digitised almost 90 per cent of government services in Kenya following in the footsteps of India.

I sent a team from Kenya, about eight months ago, to come and pick lessons from India. So, we are using the Indian experience in our digitisation of government service, in our unique personal identifier, the same way you have it here in India. Weve begun the process in Kenya of a digital identity. Of course, some people have taken us to court, but you see, its the normal journey of a democracy. Some people will go, you know, try and test here and there what India has done is phenomenal. That with a population of 1. 4 billion people. Because you can identify citizens digitally, you can deliver service much more efficiently.

Weve signed an MoU between Open University of Kenya and the Indira Gandhi National Open University of India to again build a collaboration that will leverage on experiences, especially from the longstanding delivery of courses digitally and online by the Indian counterpart. We also, agreed that India will extend a credit line of about $250 million, which is about 37, 38 billion Kenyan shillings that will go a long way in leveraging our food security intervention, especially around mechanisation and improving the breeds we have.

All matters to do with seed development, on areas of pulses on areas of edible oil. Were going to be focused on sunflower. Were going to be focused on soya and India has great experience. In fact, I was finalising a small meeting with my team and we have agreed that actually next week well have the first Kenyan team. I will be sending here the principal secretaries of two ministries to come just and conclude what we agreed so that we can get to work, especially on matters that we have agreed with Prime Minister Modi.

So, I had a wonderful experience with Prime Minister Modi. As I told you, hes a great inspiration on what he does. And of course, I was asking him well, its tough doing things for 50 million people, I dont know how he does for 1. 4 billion! Its quite something.

Palki Sharma: What did he tell you then? The answer to that?

William Ruto: He gave me some tips, not for the media.

Palki Sharma: It sounds like you got a lot of work done in a very short visit and a lot of deals. A few decades back, the developing world was looking at Western models of development and growth to be emulated. Do you think now the India model is something that countries like Kenya and others resonate with more?

William Ruto: Well, we all share the same history. You know, India was a British colony just like Kenya. India was lucky to have made strides ahead of us so there is a lot of commonality. In fact, thats what I was saying yesterday. There is a lot of commonality between India and Kenya. Its easier for us to work with Indian experience because we can relate to it. We have the same legal system. We speak English. We share common history. We are neighbours, so to speak. So theres a lot that we share and it is easy to relate to the progress India has made because they were around the same spot with us a few years ago.

So, yes, it is much more comparable. Its much more easy to learn from what India has done and we are sharing experience. There are a few things India will learn from Kenya as we make this journey.

Palki Sharma: One of the key announcements yesterday was about fighting terrorism and defence forces of both countries coming together. Thats a very, very important subject for India because weve been at the receiving end of state-sponsored terrorism from a neighbour that was not just supported, but also funded, first by the US, and now by China. Do you think the international community needs to do more to call out such actors?

William Ruto: Terrorism is a global phenomenon and is a crisis that affects many parts of the world. The same way India has suffered terrorism, we too have. We have neighbours that have serious challenges of terrorist groups in Somalia, in various parts of our region. Its necessary that we build a coalition of countries so that we share experience, we share intelligence, we share information, we collaborate, we synergize so that we can deal with terrorism because terrorism has no borders.

There is no terrorism for developing or developed world. There is no terrorism for Kenya or India. Terrorists are terrorists. Unless we come together, we are, most likely, not be able to make progress in the fight as we should, specifically, because we share the Indian Ocean, and sometime because terrorists use the oceans to block goods to cause trouble. So it is necessary that our defence forces from India and from Kenya work together to protect our sea routes so that we can keep trade moving.

I must commend India for working with us in using their capabilities. They worked with Kenya to survey our maritime resources and to provide technical expertise for us to see what is the wealth of the resources that we have in our waters. That information is useful to Kenya because one of the areas that I intend to focus is the blue economy. In my estimation from experts that I work with is that we could grow our revenues from blue economy from about 20 billion Kenya shillings to about 120-130 billion Kenyan shillings per year if we have the correct information and working with India.

We have managed to gather a lot of useful information for our blue economy, but also to deal with the challenge of terrorism in our waters.

Palki Sharma: Do you think that in the eyes of the international multilateral institutionsthe Western-led institutionsall terrorists and all terrorism-related challenges are seen equally? Are they sympathetic to your challenges as much as they are to perceived threats in the West?

William Ruto: Well, you know, countries are driven by national interest most of the time and that is why countries will relate, will react, will deal with situations with the perspective of their national interest. So, they may not necessarily be as enthusiastic to deal with a certain situation because maybe it doesnt affect their interests as much as anothers situation.

And, thats the nature of the world, you know! We have national interests and then we have interests that converge and bring us together as humanity. Of course, we should be able to deal with terrorism as terrorism; work together, all of us, in a coalition as nations, as progressive people to say no to bad people.

But, sometimes thats not the case. I dont think blame game or finger pointing will do much. I think we just have to continuously build a coalition, work together like the way we discussed this with Prime Minister Modi. It will take us a step in the right direction. Then, we will keep building these blocks until we manage the situation from where I sit.

Palki Sharma: Would you say the way to doing it would be to getting your rightful place at the table, at the decision-making table? Prime Minister Modi and India were instrumental in getting the African Union into the G20. Is that something that you discussed? And, do you think that is one way to, sort of, get the proper representation that Africa deserves?

William Ruto: Thats correct. In fact, I did commend my brother Prime Minister Modi for his efforts in championing the place of Global South, specifically the place of Africa in the global geopolitics.

It is here in India that Africa got the opportunity to be a permanent member of the G20. We believe that positioning is going to not only bring voice, but African perspective, into the conversation and African interests and African issues into the equation. It is one step in the right direction.

We also discussed with Prime Minister Modi what we need to do about the United Nations Security Council. We need a much more democratic, a much more fit for purpose UN Security Council because it cannot be that five countries, somehow, are the only ones who will have this much power about issues that happen globally, complete with Veto powers on blocking issues that they may not necessarily think are important, but a matter of life and death for others.

So, we are very well aligned with India, as Africa and as Kenya for that matter, on the reform of the whole UN system.

The international financial architecture you must be aware that this is one push that I have made, Africa has made, and we are building a big coalition.

Initially, many people dismissed it that this is not going to happen, but we became persistent. Today when we had the COP28 in Dubai, everybody had come around to say, okay, we think you have a point. We think it is time to rethink the international financial architecture. We think we need to democratise decision making.

We think we need to build a bigger coalition and a new charter on financing, especially climate sensitive, climate positive growth, sensitive financing.

So, finally, through building a coalition, raising our voices, we are finally influencing the way the world looks at issues.

India is instrumental because India is a big voice. Prime Minister Modi is a very progressive voice. So, with his voice in championing the African cause at G20, the coalition was built to change the international financial architecture complete with refinancing the multilateral development banks and also making sure that we have new sources of revenue. Its a must that we have to discuss, carbon trading, carbon taxation.

In fact, we launched a programme with France and a few other countries on a framework that we will report one year from now on a new charter on carbon taxation, carbon trading and carbon pricing as new sources of revenue to fund climate positive growth.

So were discussing G20, were discussing international financial architecture, we are discussing UN reform. These are all areas on which we have common ground. Prime Minister Modi, myself, India, Kenya, Africa, Global South, were all alike.

Palki Sharma: Weve been telling our viewers about how you are leading the climate fight in Africa. You hosted the first climate summit as well. Ill come to that. But, you mentioned the global financial architecture. The joint statement I see mentions a project financing in Kenyan Indian rupees. Theres been a lot of talk of that as well of de-dollarisation. Do you see a future, not very far away, devoid of the hegemony of the US dollar?

William Ruto: I think we must not bring, an us versus them, this versus the other. We have no problem with the US dollar. But, we want a currency neutral trade, you know! We want to diversify currency. For example, for us in Africa, we are working with the AfriExim Bank to have a pan-African payment and settlement system where trade in Africa will be in local currency, but the settlement can be done at a higher level by a centralised system.

So, AfriExim is providing a facility because we lose about 5 billion dollars every year in Africa just in exchange rates. We are saying we want trade, we want commerce, we want transactions to be currency neutral for us.

We want to trade in our local currencies. And in fact, the conversation I was having yesterday with Prime Minister Modi is that even the facility that will be extended to Kenya, the 250 million facility, we want it in Indian Rupees. Why should we go and look for dollars when we can have the facility in Indian Rupees?

We have a lot of trade; we have commodities we buy in Indian Rupees. Why should we change Kenya shilling to US dollar, from US dollar to Indian rupees? Why dont we just agree that we can do trade between Kenya in shillings and in Rupees? So, this is what we are, what the conversation we are having.

Yes, there will be a de-monopolising currency, you know, but the real aim is not to replace dollars with Rupees or Dollars with Shillings; the real aim is, we need to diversify currency. We need to neutralise currency, so that we concentrate on doing trade rather than on currency exchange.

Palki Sharma: You recently also said that the world is now looking at Africa as an opportunity and not as a source of problems. We see a growing interestthere are European players like France, theres the US, theres China, theres Russia. Do you also then see a new scramble for Africa, sort of, taking shape?

William Ruto: Scramble would be the wrong word. Maybe, a new focus, you know. What we are saying as African leaders is, and I will tell you what I have said often, that there is an African proverb: until the lion learned to write his own story, all stories glorified the hunter because he was the one writing. So this time round, were going to write our own story.

For a long time, people wrote stories about Africa, and they said Africa is a place of disease, poverty, conflict, problems. Were telling them Africa is much more than that. Africa is a continent of huge renewable energy resources: 60 per cent of the worlds potential.

Africa is a region of 40 per cent of mineral resources globally, including those that are important and significant for energy transition. Africa has 60 per cent of the worlds arable and cultivated land that can be used for smart agriculture to feed the world. Africa has the largest, the youngest, population globally at the mean age of 19 and growing. Its not only a workforce, but its also a market. Africa has the largest natural assets for carbon sequence sequestration.

So, we are repositioning Africa, not in the eyes of others, who know very little about us, but in our own perspective, knowing exactly the wealth that we have. And, we are saying that with these assets, we want to engage with the rest of the world in a win-win outcome. We want to work with others. We come with our assets. We do not want to ask for favours. We do not want to ask for aid. We are not looking for donations. What we want is an engagement on how are we going to create investment opportunities.

It is the reason why, in the COP28 in Dubai, we came as African leaders and we said: look, this is our Africa green industrialisation initiative.

We have this investment grid. You know, opportunities. You can invest in our renewable energy, geothermal wind, solar. You can invest in value addition and processing of our minerals. We do not want to export iron ore from Mauritania or from Kenya or from another place to China or Europe. We are going to use our renewable energy to process our iron ore and sell you green steel. We are not going to be exporting bauxite. We want to process our own bauxite and export aluminium.

We have supported, for example, Europe. We have supported other regions. Weve given them our raw materials and we have been very faithful. We have also bought their finished products. It is time that we exchange; this time around they buy our finished product and they export to us their technology, and we agree on an investment programme.

So, we are changing the narrative for Africa, and we are repositioning Africa as an investment destination, not as a destination for aid or a destination for donations.

Palki Sharma: Are you going to be sending cheetahs to India?

William Ruto: Well, weve joined the big cat coalition because we are a great nature country. We have our wildlife; we share in protection of wildlife globally. Kenya is a front country in protecting our assets, and the sale of animals is not a very simple thing.

Palki Sharma: Some of them were relocated to India from Namibia and South Africa.

William Ruto: There are conventions that cover how countries work around wildlife and those conventions must be respected. I am sure whatever came from Namibia or other countries, there must be a framework.

Palki: Youve played a very active role. Youve been in office not very long, but youre looking at helping Haiti by sending police force from Kenya, youre looking at mediating in Sudan, in Niger, and your critics say that while youre looking at these international issues, youre probably not doing, according to them, enough at home. You promised to bring down the cost of living. Do you believe youve been able to make enough progress? And, what is your response to people who say that youre not resolving the discontent at home?

William Ruto: Kenya is not an island. Kenya is a country in a context. To be able to get Kenya moving, we have to build a big coalition of support. India must be in the equation to support what were doing the US, others, China You know, we build a big coalition, and thats my aim. My aim is that the Kenya project is a project that goes beyond our borders. We have a big relationship with others who influence how much progress we make. Unless I build a big coalition of support for Kenya, we will not achieve what we want to achieve.

I have been very careful to balance all the issues and everything I do. I have, at the back of my mind, the interests of Kenya. How do I use every opportunity to further the interests of Kenya? My trip to India, for example, has a lot, maybe everything, to do with the progress we made in Kenya. Sharing experience around our digital space, working with our agriculture.

Looking at our health, its all about how do I position Kenya to leverage on experience, on capacity, on support from other countries. As you are aware, that the cost of living is not a country specific issue. The cost of living is a global phenomenon. I speak to many leaders. And, what they speak, as though they are speaking for me because its a challenge we have to confront.

Commodities went up because of the challenges we have with COVID and the war in Europe and all that. But, let me tell you, I did commit to the people of Kenya that my belief is that we have to enhance our production.

We cannot continue to import stuff. In fact, thats something Prime Minister Modi believes. In fact, he has changed India from a net importer of rice to a net exporter of rice today. That is the mission I have for Kenya and you dont become a net exporter of anything by not concentrating on production.

So, my focus is how do we support farmers? Lets reduce the cost of fertilizer. Kenyans will tell you in the last one year, I have brought down the cost of fertilizer from 7,000 Kenya shillings to 2,500. In fact, this year we have increased our production, for example, of maize by 40 per cent because of the interventions I have put in place.

That speaks the language of cost of living because for 50-52 per cent expenditure of most households is on food. If you reduce the cost of food, you affect significantly their cost of living.

The other intervention that we are working on is how do we create more jobs because when you increase money in peoples pockets, that is how you deal with the cost of living. In the last one year, because of the programme we have rolled out, and I have four programmes that I target to create jobs in Kenya. One of them is housing. Weve already rolled it out. We have 120, 000 people who were jobless a year ago. Today they have jobs. My programme is that in the next five years, I should have half a million people working in our housing plan.

The other intervention that I am working on is to make sure that we create more jobs abroad. We are working on eight different bilateral labour agreements with Saudi Arabia, with the UAE, with Germany. In fact, I was in Berlin, about two weeks ago and that was the conversation between me and Chancellor Scholz.

Kenyans are very hardworking people. Kenyans are probably the best workers anywhere. In fact, we have the best human capital and we spend a lot of money sharpening it. We spend 5 billion dollars every year to educate our children from primary school all the way to university. So, the export of labour.

I am targeting to export more Kenyans because they are a very good resource. And, then we are working on the space of creating digital jobse-commerce, making sure that we have more BPOs, business process outsourcingwhere we are expanding that space. Its the reason why we are creating 1,450 ICT hubs across Kenya to have more young people working.

So, I am thoroughly focused on making sure that I deal with the challenge of cost of living as I grow the country. And finally, I am very well focused on reducing the cost of medical attention. You know, many Kenyans spend their life savings, sell property, they sell their valued assets to go to hospital.

It is the reason why weve changed the law around delivery of health. We have new laws now that I have signed into place and we are rolling out universal health coverage. This is a programme we have tried and failed twice. I want to promise you and promise the people of Kenya that we will not fail this time. I am certain, I am clear, on how we will drive this to make sure that the people at the bottom of the pyramid pay less and progressively we make sure that health delivery leaves nobody buying and bring integrity into the whole system. We want to get rid of pilferage, we want to get rid of wastage, and that is why I am digitising, and learning from India to digitise, the whole health space to make sure that delivery is cost effective, efficient and corruption free.

Palki Sharma: I think your message is reaching out to millions of our viewers in Kenya, and, I cannot let you go without asking about the role of Indians in Kenya in cementing this relationship between the two countries. That is my final question.

William Ruto: We have a great Indian diaspora in Kenya. They have worked with us since 1911. They came to build the railway and they found that there was a great place to stay. So, they chose to stay with us in Kenya. They are now very good business people, very good farmers, very good citizens, very good leaders. In fact, we have many of them in our parliaments and in our institutions and in the private sector, in the public sector; we are working with them. So, the Indian diaspora is a great resource to Kenya. They bring on board the diversity of Kenya and, today, they stopped being Indians.

They are now Kenyas 44th tribe and they are perfectly Kenyan with us. Theyve been a great bridge between India and Kenya.

Palki Sharma: Some of them are friends and they call Kenya home. Ive heard great things. But, thank you so much for your time, President. I know youve been pressed for time, but youve made time for us, and its been a great conversation.

William Ruto: Thank you very much, my dear.
FBI Director Christopher Wray called on Senate legislators on Tuesday to reauthorize a US government surveillance tool that is scheduled to expire at the end of the year, warning that failure to do so would have devastating ramifications for public safety.

The problem is Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which authorises the US government to collect communications of targeted foreigners outside the US without a warrant. The programme is seen as critical by law enforcement and intelligence agencies in averting terrorist attacks, cyber breaches, espionage, and other foreign dangers.

The programme, which was established in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, attacks, is set to expire at the end of this month unless Congress chooses to renew it. However, both Republican and Democratic MPs have opposed continuing the programme in its current form, instead advocating a number of improvements in rival legislative measures aimed at better defending civil rights and vying for approval in the coming weeks.

The thorny path to reauthorization was laid bare during Tuesdays hearing, when lawmakers from both parties questioned Wray, at times aggressively, over periodic misuse of the program by FBI employees seeking out information about Americans. Though the program enables surveillance only of foreigners located outside the U.S, it also can capture the communications of American citizens and others in the US when those people are in contact with those targeted foreigners.

Sen. Mike Lee, a Utah Republican, said that during his 13 years on the committee, hed pressed multiple FBI directors about civil liberties violations associated with the surveillance program and had repeatedly been given false reassurances about the reforms being put in place.

Every darn one of them has told me the same thing: Dont worry about it, weve got this taken care of, weve got new procedures, its going to be different now,' Lee said. Its never different. You havent changed.

He added, We have no reason to trust you because you havent behaved in a manner that is trustworthy.

The fact that Wray devoted a significant portion of his prepared remarks to the Senate Judiciary Committee to the issue underscores its importance to the FBI, particularly at a time when the Israel-Hamas war has raised heightened concern about the possibility of extremist violence on US soil and contributed to threats being at a whole other level since the Oct. 7 attacks.

I think blinding us, through either allowing 702 to lapse or amending it in a way that guts its effectiveness, would be reckless at best and dangerous and irresponsible at worst, Wray said.

Calling the authority indispensable, he told the committee, 702 allows us to stay a step ahead of foreign actors located outside the United States who pose a threat to national security. And the expiration of our 702 authorities would be devastating to the FBIs ability to protect Americans from those threats.

Wray, who took over as director in 2017, said that what made the current climate unique is that so many of the threats are all elevated at the same time.

But the 702 program has come under scrutiny in the last year following revelations that FBI analysts improperly searched the database of intelligence, including for information about people tied to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the US Capitol and the racial justice protests of 2020.

Those concerns have brought together Democrats who are longtime vocal champions of civil liberties, including Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon, with Republican supporters of former President Donald Trump who are still angry over surveillance missteps made during the Russia investigation of 2016.

Wray and the White House have balked at the idea that the FBI should be required to get a warrant before searching the intelligence database for information about Americans and others inside the US

The FBI director said such a requirement would be both legally unnecessary and would hold up the bureau in trying to disrupt fast-moving national security threats.

If a warrant requirement is the path chosen, Wray said, What if there were a terrorist attack that we had a shot to prevent, but couldnt take it, because the FBI was deprived of the ability under 702 to look at key information already sitting in our holdings?

Sen. Chris Coons, a Delaware Democrat who said he had not yet made up his mind on how hed vote, asked Wray whether a more narrow reform advanced by two of his Senate colleagues might be more acceptable.

He said Democratic Sen. Mark Warner and Republican Sen. Marco Rubio, the leaders of the Senate intelligence committee, had proposed a bill that would prohibit database queries on US citizens that are designed to find evidence of a crime without a court order while still allowing warrantless searches for the purpose of finding foreign intelligence information.

Wray responded that that proposal might provide a viable path forward, but noted that searches of the database for the sole purpose of finding evidence of a crime were very rare.

Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin, the Democratic chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, summed up the issue by telling Wray that though there was no question that Section 702 was a critical tool for collecting foreign intelligence he would encourage significant reforms to protect the privacy of innocent Americans.
An Israeli official stated on Tuesday that Hamas drugged prisoners so they seemed calm and happy after being released from captivity in Gaza, following the collapse of a one-week truce that saw dozens of hostages freed.

According to Israeli sources, Hamas terrorists kidnapped roughly 240 captives and brought them to Gaza during the October 7 strikes on southern Israel, which killed 1,200 people, the majority of whom were civilians.

Of them, 105 were freed during the Qatar-mediated truce, which concluded on Friday and halted catastrophic combat within the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip, where the government media office claims more than 16,200 Palestinians have been killed, the great majority of whom have been civilians.

Hagar Mizrahi, head of general medicine at Israels health ministry, told lawmakers that sedatives such as Rivotril, also known as Clonex, had been given to some of the hostages before their release last month.

They (Hamas militants) gave them Clonex pills to make them seem calm and happy before they were handed over to the Red Cross, Mizrahi told parliaments health committee.

She did not specify whether the information was based on blood tests or witness accounts, or how many hostages she was referring to.

They also gave them a little to eat just before their release, so that they left captivity in good form, Mizrahi said.

Of the 105 hostages released, 80 Israelis were freed in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails under the terms of truce agreement.

Five others were released before the truce, including one rescued by Israeli troops.

According to the Israeli authorities, 138 hostages remain in Gaza.
Kenyan President William Ruto, who was on a two-day visit to India, lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership and expressed confidence that there is going to be a new chapter in the relations between the two nations.

In an exclusive interview with Firstpost, Ruto said, I have a lot of admiration for Prime Minister Modi. The way he has managed to pick up India and the way he is focused on matters that affect common people.

Ruto met Modi in New Delhi on Tuesday where both the leaders held bilateral meetings. Talking about his conversation with the Indian prime minister, the Kenyan president said, We had a robust conversation on a wide-ranging subject of issues that are of mutual benefit between Kenya and India.

When asked if Kenya resonates more with Indias model of development and growth, Ruto said, India and Kenya share the same history. India was a British colony, just like Kenya. We have a lot in common with India and it is easier to work with. Indian experience because we can relate to it.

Terrorism a global phenomenon

President Ruto said that both India and Kenya have suffered terrorism from neighbouring countries and stressed the importance of fighting the threat of terrorism together.

Its necessary that we build a coalition of countries so that we share experience, intelligence, information and synergise to deal with terrorism as terrorism has no borders, he said.

The Kenyan leader said that the threat of terrorism is common for all nations across the world. He emphasised the need for India and Kenya to work together to collaborate and strengthen sea routes as terrorists use the shared waters of the Indian Ocean to block goods thereby affecting trade.

I must commend India for working with us in using their capabilities. They worked with Kenya to survey our maritime resources and to provide technical expertise for us to see what is the wealth of the resources that we have in our waters, Ruto added.

PM Modi championed the place of global south

During the G20 Summit in September, held in New Delhi under the presidency of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the addition of the African Union as a permanent member of the bloc.

I commend my brother Prime Minister Modi, for his efforts in championing the place of Global South and specifically the place of Africa in the global geopolitics, the Kenyan leader said.

He added, It is here in India that Africa got the opportunity to be a permanent member of the G20. And we believe that that positioning is going to not only bring voice but African perspective into the conversation and African interests and African issues into the equation and it is one step in the right direction.

We also discussed with Prime Minister Modi what we need to do about the United Nations Security Council. We need a much more democratic UN Security Council because it cannot be that five countries somehow are the only ones who will have this much power about issues that happen globally, he further said.

De-dollarisation and the rise of Indian Rupee

The Kenyan President showed interest in trading in Indian Rupees, giving way to the dependency on the US dollar.

Ruto said, We want to trade in our local currencies. And in fact, the conversation I was having yesterday with Prime Minister Modi is that even the facility that will be extended to Kenya, the 250 million facility, we want it in Indian Rupees. Why should we go and look for dollars when we can have the facility in Indian Rupees?

We have a lot of trade and we buy commodities in Indian Rupee. Why should we change the Kenya shilling to US dollar from US dollar to the Indian rupee? Why dont we just agree that we can do trade between Kenya in shillings and in rupees? he added.

Using govt services using Indian experience

Hailing Indias progress in the process of digitisation, President Ruto said that Kenya is following the country to digitise its own government services.

What India has done is phenomenal. Even with a population of 1.4 billion people services can be delivered much more efficiently because citizens can be identified digitally, President Ruto said.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between the Open University of Kenya and the Indira Gandhi National Open University of India to collaborate on efforts to deliver services digitally across Kenya.

Repositioning Africa in our own perspective

President Ruto said that Africa is a region with an abundance of resources and opportunities.

We are repositioning Africa, not in the eyes of others who know very little about us, but in our own perspective, knowing exactly the wealth that we have. We want to work with others. We come with our assets. We do not want to ask for favors. We do not want to ask for aid. We are not looking for donations. What we want is an engagement on how are we going to create investment opportunities, he said.

He said that the nation is focusing on changing the narrative for Africa and making it an investment destination instead of a destination for aid or a destination for donations.

Ruto added, We cannot continue to import stuff. And in fact, thats something Prime Minister Modi believes. In fact, he has changed India from a net importer of rice to a net exporter of rice today. And that is the mission I have for Kenya.

Praising the presence of the Indian diaspora in India and the role played by them, the Kenyan leader said, The Indian diaspora is a great resource to Kenya. They bring on board the diversity of Kenya and today they stopped being Indians. They are now Kenyas 44th tribe and they are perfectly Kenyan with us. And theyve been a great bridge between India and Kenya.

Watch the full interview on Firstpost.com at 9 PM.
A proposal to release 200 million genetically modified mosquitoes in Indonesia as a strategy to combat dengue fever has encountered resistance from both locals and experts in Bali.

Critics argue that the pilot study in Yogyakarta, upon which the plan is based, lacks the robustness necessary to justify the introduction of this new mosquito species.

The initiative, involving Aedes aegypti mosquitoes carrying the Wolbachia bacteria, was set to launch in mid-November in Bali. However, Indonesias Ministry of Health has decided to indefinitely postpone the program, stating, We are currently discussing with the Bali Provincial Government to temporarily delay the release of [Wolbachia-carrying mosquitoes] and conduct further public dissemination until the community is prepared, according to ministry spokeswoman Siti Nadia Tarmizi.

In addition to Bali, the program was slated to cover Semarang, Bandung, Jakarta in Java, and Kupang in East Nusa Tenggara. The mosquitoes were to be injected with Wolbachia bacteria, known for inhibiting the growth of viruses like dengue fever, Zika, and yellow fever, ultimately reducing their transmission to humans.

While a study by the Centre for Tropical Medicine at Gajah Mada University reported a 77.1% reduction in dengue incidence in Wolbachia-treated communities, critics in Indonesia argue that the Yogyakarta study, based on a sample of 4,500 people, is insufficient.

Michael Northcott, a professor emeritus of ethics, expressed concerns about the limited scope of the study and called for a larger-scale replication before proceeding in Bali.

Indonesian scientist Richard Claproth emphasized the need for a national risk assessment to safeguard against potential side effects, cautioning that unforeseen consequences could lead to social unrest and legal action.

Epidemiologist Pandu Riono from Universitas Indonesia suggested that part of the resistance stems from inadequate public communication and community engagement. Despite ethical, health, and legal concerns, the program has encountered limited awareness among the local population in Bali.

Bali-based lawyer Yulius Benyamin Seran raised legal questions, asserting that the state should conduct comprehensive lab tests involving experts to ensure the safety of the mosquitoes before release. In his opinion, a thorough review is essential to prevent potential new threats.

The controversy highlights the complex intersection of scientific innovation, public perception, and regulatory scrutiny in addressing health challenges.
An Iranian court has ordered the US administration to pay around $50 billion in compensation for the 2020 assassination of Major-General Qassem Soleimani in Iraq. The decision comes nearly four years after the killing of the former head of the elite Quds Force.

Then-US President Donald Trump ordered a drone strike near Baghdad airport that resulted in the death of General Qasem Soleimani and his Iraqi lieutenant Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis on January 3, 2020. In retaliation, Tehran conducted missile strikes on two bases in Iraq housing US soldiers and has consistently called for the withdrawal of US forces from the neighbouring country.

The Iranian judiciarys Mizan Online news agency said that a Tehran court had sentenced the US government to pay $49.7 billion in material, moral and punitive damages after a lawsuit filed by more than 3,300 Iranians.

The court found 42 individuals and legal persons guilty, including Trump, the US government, former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and former Defence Secretary Mark Esper, Mizan added.

Qasem Soleimani commanded the Quds Force, the foreign operations arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

He was one of the countrys most popular public figures who spearheaded Irans Middle East operations and was seen as a hero of the 1980-88 Iran-Iraq war. Iranian courts have now handed down several rulings against the United States.

Last month an Iranian court ordered the US government to pay $420 million in compensation to victims of an abortive 1980 operation to free hostages held at the US embassy.

In August, a Tehran court demanded Washington pay $330 million in damages for planning a coup in 1980 against the fledgling Islamic republic.

Those suits follow a series of multi-billion-dollar compensation rulings against Tehran by US courts.

In 2016, the US Supreme Court ordered that Iranian assets frozen in the United States should be paid to victims of attacks Washington has blamed on Tehran, including the 1983 bombing of a US Marine barracks in Beirut and a 1996 blast in Saudi Arabia.

Tehran denies all responsibility for the attacks.

It has appealed to international justice to help unlock the funds of several Iranian individuals and companies that have been frozen by Washington. In March the International Court of Justice ruled that Washingtons freezing of funds was manifestly unreasonable.

But it ruled it had no jurisdiction to unblock nearly $2 billion in Iranian central bank assets frozen by the United States.

Iran and Washington have had no diplomatic relations since the aftermath of the 1979 revolution.

With inputs from AFP.
Wednesday saw intense ground battle between Israeli forces and Hamas terrorists in Gaza as the Israelis broke through the damaged Palestinian enclave and arrived in the centre of the southern city of Khan Younis.

Moreover, in one of the most intense battles in the two months since the start of the Hamas-Israel conflict, Israeli planes barraged targets.

Palestinian medical professionals reported that supplies were running low and that hospitals were bursting at the seams with civilian casualties, many of them women and children. There were fewer and fewer safe places for the hundreds of thousands of individuals who had been uprooted from their homes.

In an effort to destroy Hamas, Israeli forces and tanks have mostly taken control of the northern portion of the Gaza Strip and have now advanced to the southern portion. When a truce broke last week, they unleashed a wave of violence that surrounded Khan Younis.

Israel reported on Wednesday that its forces were engaged in intense combat and that they had hit hundreds of targets within the enclave, including a militant cell close to a northern school.

Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, also reported that its militants were involved in combat with Israeli soldiers.

On Tuesday, 24 military vehicles were damaged and eight Israeli troops were reported killed or injured by Hamas. Israel claimed that since the ground assault started five weeks ago, 84 of its soldiers had been killed.

As the fighting shifted to close-quarters ground action, the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War reported that Hamas fighters were switching to anti-personnel mines and improvised explosive devices.

Israel launched its operations in retaliation for an attack on October 7 by Hamas fighters who, according to Israels count, rampaged through Israeli cities, murdering 1,200 people and taking 240 prisoners.

Over 16,248 individuals, including 7,112 children and 4,885 women, were allegedly slain in Gaza, according to Hamas. The Gaza Health Ministry did not immediately confirm such numbers.

On Wednesday, the Israeli military declared that it would go to great lengths to protect civilians. It said that Hamas was blocking civilians from fleeing to safe areas and was employing them as human shields.

(With agency inputs)
Israels military launched a heavy bombardment on southern Gazas main city, marking the fiercest fighting since the ground invasion against Hamas began five weeks ago. The U.S. reiterated its call for Israel to minimize civilian casualties among Palestinians.

The military claimed its forces were deeply engaged in Khan Younis, the primary target in the expanded southern Gaza offensive, aiming to eradicate Hamas. Military officials described it as the most intense day of battles since the ground offensive commenced, with heavy firefights also reported in northern Gaza.

We are in the most intense day since the beginning of the ground operation, the commander of the Israeli militarys Southern Command, General Yaron Finkelman, said in a statement.

The combat was also the most intense since a truce between Israel and Hamas collapsed last week. Israeli forces also fought in Jabalia, a large urban refugee camp and Hamas hotbed in the north next to Gaza City, and in Shujaiyya to the east, Finkelman said.

Hamas armed wing said it killed or wounded eight Israeli troops and destroyed 24 military vehicles on Tuesday. An Israeli military website listed two troop deaths for Tuesday and 83 since the ground operation began.

Gaza health officials said many civilians were killed in an Israeli strike on houses in Deir al-Balah, north of Khan Younis. Dr Eyad Al-Jabri, head of the Shuhada Al-Aqsa Hospital there, told Reuters at least 45 people were killed. Reuters could not reach the area nor confirm the toll.

Israel unleashed its campaign in response to an attack on Oct. 7 by Hamas fighters who rampaged through Israeli towns, killing 1,200 people and seizing 240 hostages, according to Israels tally.

Israeli police are investigating alleged sexual crimes and Israels justice ministry has said victims were tortured, physically abused, raped, burned alive, and dismembered.

Hamas media office said on Tuesday at least 16,248 people including 7,112 children and 4,885 women had been killed in Gaza by Israels military since Oct. 7. Thousands more are missing and feared buried under rubble.

Those figures were not immediately verified by the Gaza health ministry.

U.S. PRESSURE ON ISRAEL

Since the truce collapsed, Israel has been posting an online map to tell Gazans which parts of the enclave to evacuate to avoid attacks. Khan Younis eastern quarter was marked on Monday, and many of its hundreds of thousands of residents took flight on foot.

Gazans say there is no safe place, with remaining towns and shelters already overwhelmed, and Israel continuing to bomb the areas where it is telling people to go.

At Khan Younis main Nasser hospital, the wounded arrived by ambulance, car, flatbed truck and donkey cart after what survivors described as a strike on a school being used as a shelter for the displaced.

Inside a ward, almost every inch of blood-splattered floor space was taken up by the wounded including small children, with medics hurrying from patient to patient while relatives wailed.

Two girls were being treated, still covered in dust from the collapse of the house that had buried their family.

My parents are under the rubble, sobbed one child. I want my mum, I want my mum, I want my family.

Amid continued international criticism of Gazas plight, the United States, Israels close ally, reiterated on Tuesday that Israel needed to do more to allow fuel and other aid into Gaza and reduce harm to civilians. Despite the mounting death toll, it said Israel was now showing some receptiveness to the calls.

The level of assistance thats getting in is not sufficient, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said at a press briefing. It needs to go up, and weve made that clear to the government of Israel.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Tuesday that Hamas had repeatedly raped women and mutilated their bodies during its assault on southern Israel, citing survivors and witnesses.

It is appalling, he told a political fundraiser in Boston.

In a statement on its Telegram channel, Hamas denounced Bidens accusations as false and said he was joining Israels effort to cover up war crimes committed with U.S. support.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cited the claims of rape and other abuse in a meeting with families of returned hostages on Tuesday that some participants described as angry because of frustration over the governments handling of the situation.

I heard stories that broke my heart I heard and you also heard, about sexual assault and cases of brutal rape unlike anything, Netanyahu said at a press conference.

Israel says a number of women and children remain in Hamas hands. During the pause in fighting, Hamas returned more than 100 hostages while 138 captives remain.

Biden blamed Iran-backed Hamas for the collapse of the truce last week, saying the militant groups refusal to release the remaining young women is what broke this deal.

Israel and Hamas have accused each other of wrecking negotiations.

Asked late on Tuesday whether Hamas was the only group holding U.S. hostages in Gaza, Biden said: Well theres others. Look, Im not going to talk more about it. Were not walking away.

Hamas official Osama Hamdan said on Tuesday there would be no more hostages released until Israels aggression stopped.

Separately, the U.S. imposed visa bans on people involved in violence in the Israeli-occupied West Bank after appeals for Israel to do more to prevent attacks on Palestinians by Jewish settlers.

Two Palestinian teenagers were killed by the Israeli gunfire in Tubas, West Bank, the official Palestinian WAFA news agency reported on Wednesday.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on Tuesday condemned settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank.
More than four years after becoming the first G7 country to sign up, Italy has formally pulled out of Chinas vast Belt and Road infrastructure project, a government source announced on Wednesday.

According to AFP, citing Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, the long-expected decision was communicated to Beijing three days ago. There was no official statement from either side, it added.

Rome had pulled out in such a way as to keep channels of political dialogue open, AFP quoted an Italian government source as saying.

Before coming to power last year, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said the decision by a previous government to join in 2019 was a serious mistake.

Critics have denounced the trillion-dollar investment scheme as a predatory Trojan horse aimed at buying political influence.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said in September that membership has not produced the results we were hoping for.

The deal was due to automatically renew in March 2024 unless Italy opts out by the end of this year.

But Rome has been wary of provoking Beijing and risking retaliation against Italian companies.

Meloni told reporters at the G20 summit in Delhi in September that month that should Rome leave the project, it would not compromise relations with China.

With inputs from agencies
According to the Japanese government, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was informed by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on the phone on Wednesday that it was critical to reduce the number of civilian casualties in the war against Hamas.

Prime Minster Kishida stated continued growth in the number of civilian casualties should be avoided, and that it is important to calm the situation swiftly, minimise civilian casualties and observe international law including international humanitarian law, according to an announcement from the Foreign Ministry.

The announcement stated, without providing any details, that Netanyahu responded by outlining Israels stance on the military action in Gaza.

(With agency inputs)
The Delhi Police are on alert after Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatened to attack the Indian Parliament on December 13, the 22nd anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attack.

In a video message, Pannun threatened to shake the very foundation of Parliament. The winter session of the Parliament is currently underway.

A senior police officer said security has already been stepped up in and around Parliament. No one will be allowed to disturb law and order, he said.

When Parliament is on, we remain alert. We are taking all precautionary measures to prevent any untoward incident, the officer said adding that security has also been beefed up across the national capital.

In the video that features an image of the 2001 Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru, Pannun, the chief of Sikhs for Justice, said that the Narendra Modi government tried to kill him and threatened to respond on December 13.

Pannu claimed that his response would shake the very foundation of the Indian Parliament.

Meanwhile last month, the US Department of Justice charged an Indian man named Nikhil Gupta for allegedly plotting the murder of a New York City resident and a designated terrorist in India, Pannun.

The document did not name the government employee, nor did it name Pannun.

It said the government employee contacted Gupta to assassinate the NY resident. The purported killer whom Gupta contacted for the killing was an undercover cop and Gupta was arrested in June this year by the Czech authorities.

This is the third time in three months that Pannun has threatened India. In October the Khalistani terrorist threatened to launch a Hamas-like attack on India while in November he threatened to blow up an Air India flight.

With inputs from agencies
Krystle Kaul, a foreign policy and national security expert of Indian descent with roots in Kashmir, has declared her intention to run for the US House of Representatives from a Virginia congressional district, with the focus on fundamental concerns such as healthcare, education, and public safety.

If elected in 2024, Kaul would be only the second Indian-American woman to be elected to the House of Representatives after Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal.

Susheela Jayapal, the sister of Pramila Jayapal, has also entered the candidature for Congress from Oregons third Congressional District.

To secure the Democratic Partys candidature for the general elections scheduled for November 2024, Kaul and Susheela Jayapal must both prevail in the partys primary.

Speaking eight languages fluently, including Hindi, Punjabi, Dari, Urdu, and Arabic, Kaul, the first person of Kashmiri descent to run for office in Congress, said that she decided to run for the 10th Congressional District of Virginia after Democratic Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton, who has served the district since 2019, declared she would not be running for reelection.

Kaul has spent her professional life in the national security establishment from the Pentagon to think tanks and the defence industry.

She said education, healthcare and public Safety are the three core issues she would focus on in her campaign.

The 10th Congressional District of Virginia encompasses parts of Virginia that have one of the highest concentrations of Indian Americans and South Asians in the state, like Loudoun County, Fairfax County and Prince Williams County.

Elaborating on her promises to the electorate, she said: The first foremost being is educationThe second one is improving our healthcare system here.

We have a lot of small business owners and just making healthcare more affordable and more accessible. So from prescription drugs to seeing specialists, that is something that is a concern. And the third is public safety, making sure we have safe neighbourhoods, safe schools, safe communities, PTI quoted Kaul, who is in her late thirties, as saying in a recent interview.

Kaul said when it comes to national security, she would take a very strong stance on counter-terrorism.

As a child, at her home in Long Island, where she grew up, she very often heard stories about the conflict in Kashmir from her father.

..that was when my father was sharing accounts of the tension in Kashmir. I was very interested in learning more about Kashmir. I made it a point to focus my studies on understanding the conflict there, she said.

I had a desire to eventually run for Congress. But obviously, its a path. Its a journey to get there. So I first devoted my studies, my first three degrees, to understanding diplomacy, negotiation, political science, and all the theory that you need to understand, she said.

So, I have fallen in the footsteps of (Congresswoman) Abigail Spanberger (a former CIA officer). There are about nine democrats who have entered Congress with prior service in the Department of Defence several of whom I know personally as well, she said.

Kaul, who has travelled to more than 70 countries, was born and raised in Long Island, New York.

Her father, who is from Safapora in Kashmir, came to the US at the age of 26. Her mother, a Punjabi from Delhi, migrated at the age of seven.

My father has worked in the insurance business and my mother has done work in real estate, she said.

After Long Island in New York, Kaul spent a few years in Wayne, New Jersey where she attended Vidyapith as a kid and she studied Sanskrit Vedic heritage, Hindi, mythology, the religion.

She shifted to Washington DC when she was 17 for a college education.

She graduated with a B A from American University, MAs from Brown University and Johns Hopkins University (SAIS), and has a PhD in Political Science in progress at Brown University.

A national leader in the defence and intelligence community, she served as a Director (GS-15) of the Defence Threat Reduction Agency at the Department of Defence, the Director of Strategic Communications of the US Air Force and NATO for General Dynamics Information Technology, and as an Intelligence Political-Military Expert at US Central Command.

The majority of my career has been with the Department of Defence. I worked for a number of large defence contractors and consulting firms, including Deloitte, General Dynamics, Lidos, and Booz Allen Hamilton, she said.

The announcement that she is running for Congress has created a buzz in the Indian-American community.

Very positive. I have a great deal of support from several organisations that back Indian-American candidates, that back South Asian American candidates across the country, she said, describing it as an outpouring of support.

With inputs from agencies
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, visibly moved, implored women to contribute to countering the countrys decreasing birth rate, emphasising the importance of strengthening national power during a National Mothers Meeting in Pyongyang.

In his orchestrated appeal, he underscored the responsibilities of preventing a decline in birth rates and promoting good childcare, urging mothers to instill communist values in their children.

The event, the first National Mothers Meeting in 11 years, aimed to address concerns arising from North Koreas falling birth rate. Kim, addressing the audience as Dear Mothers, highlighted the social tasks that mothers should join in tackling, emphasising the significance of the meeting comparable to a party congress or a plenary meeting of the Party Central Committee.

While detailed population trends in North Korea are challenging to ascertain due to limited statistics, South Koreas government indicates a steady decline in the Norths fertility rate over the past decade. This poses concerns for a country relying on mobilized labor to sustain its sanctioned economy, prioritizing the military in resource allocation.

Kims call for increased population growth aligns with historical efforts, including policies encouraging larger families in the 1980s. Notably, North Korea provides support such as nurseries and 77 days of paid leave after childbirth, reflecting efforts to ease the challenges of raising children.

The recent demographic changes in North Korea, comparable to wealthier nations, are attributed to factors like economic constraints and influences from South Korean media. Experts suggest that the countrys limited resources and technological advancements may hinder economic development without an adequate labor force.

In response to the declining birth rate, North Korea has introduced benefits for families with three or more children, including free housing, state subsidies, free essentials, and educational perks. Despite concerns and projections of a population decrease, North Koreas fertility rate remains higher than some neighboring countries grappling with a similar trend.

Kim has in the recent past made repeated appearances with his daughter, Ju Ae, speculating that these may be efforts to encourage family growth or establish her as his heir. Despite these efforts, North Korea faces challenges in reversing the demographic decline, with the situation unfolding against a backdrop of broader socio-economic and cultural issues.

Earlier, an ex-bodyguard of Kims father had revealed that he lived an isolated childhood that left him stressed and quick-tempered. Lee Young-guk, who was one of the Kim Jong Ils personal bodyguards for 11 years, said that the man who has drawn worldwide censure for rapidly advancing his countrys nuclear weapons program lashed out as a young man.
film purportedly shows a U.S.-built Bradley infantry combat vehicle that was abandoned by its Ukrainian crew and rendered immobile by Russian fire while on the battle lines in the Luhansk region of Ukraine. The clip was broadcast on Russian television.

The host of the prime-time programme on Russia 1s main channel stated that Russian forces would be able to find its weaknesses if they were able to seize a functional Bradley, one of the few dozen that Washington has delivered to Ukraine this year.

Interviews with a number of anonymous masked members of two recovery teams were included in the news story.

They claimed to have returned to the car in the grey zone, perhaps 500 yards from Ukrainian soldiers, under the cover of darkness and heavy fog, towing it between minefields.

The presenter stated that the film of the vehicle featured numerous bullet holes, which were caused by Ukrainian drones attempting to damage as much of the advanced technology within the abandoned spacecraft as they could.

Stacks of yellow-tipped cannon rounds and heavy machine gun ammunition were visible to the camera.

According to a member of the recovery team, the car looked to be an upgraded Bradley, complete with a stronger engine, better night vision and fire guidance systems, and enhanced dynamic protection against cannon fire. The car, according to him, had only about 240 kilometres (150 miles) on it.

(With agency inputs)
In a rare trip abroad, Russian President Vladimir Putin began a trip to Saudi Arabia and will meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman today to discuss oil production, OPEC+ and the wars in the Gaza Strip and Ukraine.

Putin arrived in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the Emirates which is currently hosting the United Nations COP28 climate talks. It marked his first visit to the region since before the coronavirus pandemic and the war in Ukraine, despite facing an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court.

Putins meeting with the prince, known as MBS, follows a decline in oil prices, despite OPEC+ pledging to further cut output. Neither Saudi Arabia nor the UAE has signed the ICC founding treaty, meaning they are not obliged to detain Putin over the warrant accusing him of being personally responsible for child abductions in Ukraine during the war. Putin opted out of a summit in South Africa due to concerns about potential arrest upon arrival.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAEs foreign minister, met a smiling Putin after he bounded down the stairs of his presidential plane. As he arrived at Abu Dhabis Qasr al-Watan palace to meet Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the countrys ruler, the UAEs military acrobatics team flew in formation with red, white and blue smoke trailing them in the colours of the Russian flag.

Im happy to meet you again, Sheikh Mohammed said as he sat with Putin in the palace.

Soldiers on horseback and with camels lined his arrival route, Russian and Emirati flags also hanging from lampposts.

Four Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets accompanied Putins plane on the flight to the Emirates, Russian state-run media reported.

Putin last visited the UAE in 2019, receiving a warm welcome from Sheikh Mohammed, then the crown prince of Abu Dhabi. In the time since, however, the world has greatly changed.

The Russian president isolated himself during the coronavirus pandemic. He launched an invasion targeting Ukraine in February 2022, a grinding war that continues today and has been a topic for Ukrainian diplomats at the COP28 talks.

Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war remains a major concern for the Mideast, particularly the UAE, which reached diplomatic recognition with Israel in 2020. Recent attacks by Yemens Iranian-backed Houthi rebels also threaten commercial shipping in the Red Sea as Irans nuclear program continues its rapid advances since the collapse of the 2016 nuclear deal.

Putin is scheduled to meet with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Thursday for what Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov has described as a rather lengthy conversation. The two countries have been discussing ways to get around the Western sanctions targeting them.

Putin will travel to Saudi Arabia and meet with powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the one-day trip, Ushakov said. Those discussions likely will focus on Moscows other major concern in the Middle East  oil.

Russia is part of OPEC+, which is a group of cartel members and other nations that have managed production to try and boost crude oil prices. Last week, the group expanded some output cuts into next year and brought up-and-coming oil supplier Brazil into the fold. Benchmark Brent crude traded Wednesday around $77 a barrel, down from nearly $100 in September, over concerns about a weakening economy worldwide.

The visit comes after a parade of Western leaders including U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and others backing Ukraine spoke at COP28. So did Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, long a Putin ally.

A readout on Putins trip from the state-run Tass news agency published early Wednesday offered no suggestion he might come to the COP28 site, instead quoting Ushakov saying hed land and have a meeting at the palace and one-on-one talks with Sheikh Mohammed. Still, some reports suggest Putin could make an appearance at the climate talks.

The U.N.s Framework Convention on Climate Changes spokesperson Alexander Saier told a news conference Monday morning that he was not aware that Mr. Putin will come to the conference, but I would also need to check the host country with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He declined to answer whether U.N. police would be obligated to make an arrest.

The Emirati organization committee for COP28 referred questions to the UAEs Foreign Ministry, which did not respond. The UAE repeatedly feted the now-deposed Sudanese leader Omar al-Bashir in the past despite an ICC warrant seeking his arrest on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity in Darfur.

Im talking about his crimes and this person is literally right now here, somewhere near me, said Alina Abramenko, another worker at the Ukrainian pavilion that highlights the environmental damage wrought by the war. You know, its really strange.

With inputs from agencies.
According to two people familiar with Saudi thinking, Saudi Arabia has requested that the US exercise moderation in reacting to Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea. This is part of Riyadhs efforts to control the fallout from the Israeli-Hamas conflict.

The Houthis, who support Iran, have entered the battle that has erupted across the Middle East since it began on October 7. They have been assaulting ships in crucial shipping routes and launching missiles and drones at Israel.

The faction that controls a large portion of Yemen claims that its strikes are an expression of solidarity with the Palestinians and has promised to keep going until Israel ends its campaign in the Gaza Strip, which is located more than 1,000 miles from their capital of Sanaa.

Since the war began on October 7, when their Palestinian ally Hamas attacked Israel, the Houthis are one of several factions in the Iran-aligned Axis of Resistance that have been attacking targets in Israel and the United States.

Due to their involvement, the conflict now poses a greater risk to regional stability. States on the Red water are concerned as Houthi drones and missiles are flying towards Israel, endangering the water routes that carry a large portion of the worlds oil.

The worlds largest oil exporter, Saudi Arabia has been alarmed by the Houthi missiles fired over its territory.

Aiming to prevent further escalation, Riyadhs message of moderation to Washington, according to two sources familiar with Saudi thinking, came as the Houthis escalated their attacks on ships in recent weeks.

In light of years of conflict with Iran and its allies, Saudi Arabias diplomacy reflects a broader strategy to advance regional security as it pushes for a ceasefire to end what it has dubbed a barbaric war in Gaza.

Prioritising the growth and diversification of the Saudi economy, Riyadh established diplomatic relations with Tehran this year and is attempting to end the conflict it has been engaged in with the Houthis in Yemen for almost nine years.

(With agency inputs)
The vessel is currently safe, according to U.S. officials, who claimed on Sunday that a U.S. Navy cruiser reacted to a distress call from a commercial tanker in the Gulf of Aden that had been taken over by armed persons.

The Central Park was identified by the ships company as the tanker that had been transporting phosphoric acid. The attackers were not identified by the authorities.

According to a statement from the U.S. military, the USS Mason asked that the attackers release the commercial ship with assistance from other ships.

After being pursued by the American destroyer, the five armed men who had attempted to flee on a swift boat eventually turned themselves in.

Two ballistic missiles were fired from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen towards the Mason and Central Park, the statement continued, but they landed roughly 10 nautical miles away from them with no damage or casualties reported.

Since a bloody conflict between Israel and the militant Palestinian organisation Hamas began on October 7, there have been numerous strikes in Middle Eastern seas. This one is the most recent.

It came after Irans allied Yemeni Houthis seized a cargo ship with ties to Israel last week in the southern Red Sea. The organisation threatened to target more Israeli boats after firing ballistic missiles and armed drones against Israel.

Zodiac Maritime Ltd, an international ship management business based in London and controlled by the Ofer family in Israel, is in charge of overseeing Central Park, a light chemical tanker with a displacement of 19,998 metric tonnes. According to LSEG records, the vessel flying the Liberian flag was constructed in 2015 and is owned by Clumvez Shipping Inc.

Central Park, which is transporting phosphoric acid in its entirety, was allegedly involved in a suspected piracy incident while traversing international waters around 54 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia, according to a statement released by Zodiac Maritime.

Most commonly, phosphoric acid is employed as a fertiliser.

For the previous few years, the United States has held Iran accountable for unreported attacks on multiple vessels in the area. Tehran has refuted any connection.

A U.S. defence official said on Saturday that a suspected Iranian drone struck a cargo ship operated by an Israeli-controlled firm in the Indian Ocean, resulting in minor damage to the ship but no injuries.

On October 7, armed Hamas terrorists stormed into Israel, murdering 1,200 people. According to Palestinian health authorities, since then, Israel has dropped bombs on Gaza, killing around 14,000 Palestinians, about 40% of whom were youngsters.

Following the second release of hostages held by Hamas, which came about after an earlier delay due to a disagreement over assistance delivery into Gaza, thirteen Israelis and four Thai nationals landed in Israel early on Sunday.

(with agency inputs)
On Wednesday, former British prime minister Boris Johnson offered his most direct apologies for how he handled the coronavirus crisis, claiming that his administration had been overly complacent and had first miscalculated the risks the virus posed.

Johnson addressed the public during an official investigation into the UKs response to the pandemic, acknowledging that he was accountable for all decisions made and that he understood the publics outrage following allegations of government incompetence, scheming, and misogyny amid the countrys largest health crisis in decades.

Johnson stated that rather than being the typhoon that killed over 230,000 people in Britain and infected many more, COVID-19 had initially appeared as a cloud on the horizon.

At first, Johnson said he did not trust the death toll projections and that he had only seldom perused the governments principal scientific advisory groups minutes, even though their recommendations had prompted the largest suppression of civil liberties since World War II.

Johnson served as prime minister for three years, from 2019 to 2022, before resigning in scandal. Among the scandals were claims that he and other officials had attended drunken parties in Downing Street in 2020 and 2021, when the majority of British citizens were forced to stay at home.

He was reluctant to lock down, and the investigation has already heard devastating testimony about how he was perplexed by the science.

According to reports, Johnson once suggested that he should be given a COVID-19 injection live on television in order to allay public anxieties and inquired if putting a hair dryer up his nose could eradicate the virus.

(With agency inputs)
The United States has started imposing visa bans on people involved in violence in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Washington officials said, after several appeals for Israel to do more to prevent violence by Jewish settlers.

A new State Department visa restriction policy targets individuals believed to have been involved in undermining peace, security, or stability in the West Bank, including through committing acts of violence or taking other actions that unduly restrict civilians access to essential services and basic necessities, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.

President Joe Biden and other senior US officials have warned repeatedly that Israel must act to stop violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank. Attacks there have shown a sharp increase in recent months as Jewish settlements have expanded, and then spiked again since the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.

Blinken made clear to Israeli officials during a visit last week that they need to do more to stop extremist violence against Palestinians, and hold those responsible for it accountable, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters in a press briefing after the announcement. Palestinian leaders must also do more to curb Palestinian attacks against Israelis in the West Bank, he added.

The first bans under the new policy would be imposed on Tuesday and more designations will be made in the coming days, Miller said.

We expect ultimately for this action to impact dozens of individuals and potentially their family members, Miller said, adding that any Israeli with an existing US visa who was targeted would be notified that their visa was revoked.

Since a 1967 Middle East war, Israel has occupied the West Bank, which Palestinians want as the core of an independent state. It has built Jewish settlements there that most countries deem illegal. Israel disputes this and cites historical and biblical ties to the land.

Asked about settler violence in a news conference on Tuesday, Israels Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said no one besides Israeli authorities had the right use violence.

Israel is a state of law. The right to use violence belongs only to those who are certified to do so by the government, he said.

Miller said Israel had taken some steps to hold people responsible for the West Bank violence, like putting them in administrative detention, but US officials believe they should be prosecuted.

Washingtons move on Tuesday does not obviate the need for the government of Israel to take its own actions and we will continue to be clear with them about it, he said.
The Justice Department said that the accusations brought against four soldiers with ties to Russia are the first-ever ones made under the countrys war crimes legislation. The charges relate to war crimes against an American that were committed during Moscows invasion of Ukraine.

The four Russian men are charged with war crimes, torture, inhumane treatment, conspiracy to conduct war crimes, and unlawful treatment of an American citizen, according to a nine-page indictment.

As the world has witnessed the horrors of Russias brutal invasion of Ukraine, so has the United States Department of Justice, Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement.

That is why the Justice Department has filed the first ever charges under the U.S. war crimes statute against four Russia- affiliated military personnel for heinous crimes against an American citizen, Garland said.

The indictment named the four men as Valerii and Nazar, whose first names were only provided, and Suren Seiranovich Mkrtchyan and Dmitry Budnik. The American citizen remained anonymous.

The indictment claims that the men battered, tormented, and questioned the American citizen. According to the U.S. Justice Department, they also allegedly carried out a simulated execution and threatened to kill the victim.

These charges reflect that the defendants alleged actions are not only grave breaches of the Geneva Convention Relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War, but also violations of U.S. law, said U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber for the Eastern District of Virginia, where the indictment was filed.

(With agency inputs)
US President Joe Biden said on Tuesday that he was undecided if he would run for reelection next year if Republican competitor Donald Trump did not also run.

If Trump wasnt running, Im not sure Id be running. But we cannot let him win, the 81-year-old Democrat told a 2024 election campaign fundraiser in Weston, Massachusetts.

Biden applauded the powerful voice of former Republican senator Liz Cheney, who warned on Sunday that the United States will be sleepwalking into dictatorship if twice-impeached former President Donald Trump is re-elected.

He also referenced the Atlantic magazine describing the risks faced by a second Trump term, one of three major US media sources, along with the Washington Post and New York Times, to issue similar warnings in recent days.

During a previous Boston event, Biden criticised Trumps increasingly inflammatory campaign rhetoric, including labelling his opponents vermin. That, according to Biden, mimicked the terminology used in Germany during the 1930s, when Adolf Hitlers Nazis were on the rise.

Trumps not even hiding the ball anymore. Hes telling us what hes going to do, Biden said. Hes making no bones about it.

On his return to Washington, reporters asked Biden again if hed be running without Trump as his opponent.

He is running and I have to run, Biden said.

If Trump drops out, would Biden do the same?

No, now now, Biden said.

The Democrat, who beat Trump in 2020, an election that Trump still refuses to accept, has repeatedly portrayed himself as defending American democracy in next years vote.

Trump, however, is narrowly ahead in opinion polls despite facing a number of criminal trials including one for election subversion.

Bidens age is a particular concern with voters and there have been calls from some Democrats for him to step aside for a new candidate.

Joe Biden is the real dictator, Trump responded in a post on his conservative Truth Social network on Tuesday.
Israels ground operation in southern Gaza will conclude in January following which the country will begin targeting specific Hamas terrorists and leaders, US officials believe.

Talking to CNN, several senior US administration officials have said that with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) expanding its operation to northern Gaza, the White House remains deeply concerned about how Israels counteroffensive will unfold in the coming weeks.

The US has warned Israel not to replicate the tactics it used in northern Gaza and urged the country to minimise civilian deaths. However, a senior US official says that it does not prefer to use the word receptive to describe Israels response to Americas advice.

Meanwhile, a senior Israeli officer agreed that the country plans to transition into a lower-intensity and hyper-localized strategy in the coming weeks.

Israels military bombarded southern Gazas main city in what it said was the fiercest fighting since it began a ground invasion to eliminate Hamas five weeks ago.

Israel reported its forces, backed by warplanes, on Tuesday reached the heart of Khan Younis in southern Gaza and also surrounded the city. Hamas armed wing, the al Qassam Brigades, said its fighters engaged in violent clashes with Israelis.

We are in the most intense day since the beginning of the ground operation, the commander of the Israeli militarys Southern Command, General Yaron Finkelman, said in a statement.

A US assessment also shows that Israel cannot continue to carry out its level of high-intensity operations indefinitely.

US Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Monday that Israel has actually taken the quite unusual step for a modern military and identified precisely the area that they intend to have ground maneuvers, and they have asked the people in that area to move out.

With inputs from agencies
Israel has reportedly started flooding Hamass network of tunnels under the Gaza Strip by pumping water from the Mediterranean Sea. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have set up a system of pumps, positioned about a mile north of the Al-Shati refugee camp, capable of moving thousands of cubic meters of water per hour, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday, citing U.S. officials.

Israels army completed the set-up of at least five pumps around the middle of November about a mile north of the Al-Shati refugee camp that could move thousands of cubic meters of water per hour, flooding the tunnels within weeks, according to reports.

It was not clear whether Israel would consider using the pumps before all hostages were released, according to the story. Hamas has previously said it has hidden captives in safe places and tunnels.

When asked about the story, a U.S. official was quoted by Reuters as saying that it made sense for Israel to render the tunnels inoperable and that the country was exploring a range of ways to do that. Israels defence ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Wall Street Journal said an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) official declined to comment on the flooding plan but was quoted as saying: The IDF is operating to dismantle Hamass terror capabilities in various ways, using different military and technological tools.

Israel first informed the United States of the option last month, the Wall Street Journal said, reporting that officials did not know how close Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government was to carrying out the plan.

With inputs from Reuters.
Earlier this week, militants supported by Iran launched a barrage of 122mm artillery rockets from an improvised launcher concealed within a modified tanker truck, targeting U.S.-led coalition forces in Syria. A video capturing the vehicle in action has surfaced on social media.

On December 3 at approximately 2:15 p.m., the U.S. Central Command reported that 15 rockets originating from Iraq were fired at the U.S. base Rumalyn Landing Zone in Syria. As per reports, no personnel were injured, and no equipment was damaged.

Video showing the moment rockets were launched from a moving fuel tanker(transformed into a rocket launching pad) in Nineveh, Iraq. Rockets targeted a U.S landing base in Syria pic.twitter.com/G9r1Jv0iPW  Steven Nabil (@thestevennabil) December 4, 2023

The Rumalyn Landing Zone, situated in the northeastern tip of Syria near the Iraqi border, serves as a U.S.-led coalition forward operating location. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella organization encompassing various Iranian-backed militias, claimed responsibility for the attack.

#BREAKING: VIDEO OF MISSILES LAUNCHED FROM CONVERTED FUEL TRUCK, NOW A ROCKET LAUNCHER, AT US BASE IN IRAQ GOES VIRAL. INNOVATIVE MILITARY TACTIC SPARKS GLOBAL SOCIAL MEDIA BUZZ. #Iraq #USMilitaryBase pic.twitter.com/jRlBGr7kiL  Genius Bot X (@GeniusBotX) December 5, 2023

The Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR), responsible for combating ISIS in Iraq and Syria, located the launch point using uncrewed ISR assets. Iraqi Security Forces subsequently investigated the site. The improvised launcher, later recovered by Iraqi forces, featured 20 launch tubes, with five rockets malfunctioning.

A video clip depicting the launcher in motion raises questions about the presence of individuals inside during the attack. Typically, these makeshift launchers operate autonomously, triggered by timers or remote systems.

The use of concealed improvised rocket launchers has been a characteristic tactic of Iraqi militants since the aftermath of the 2003 U.S.-led invasion. Various commercial trucks, including donkey-drawn carts disguised as construction trailers, have been employed for this purpose.

This deceptive concealment serves to position and deploy rocket launchers with reduced risk of detection, preemptive destruction, or counter-attacks. While not a new strategy, it remains relevant, with non-state groups and nations like Iran and North Korea actively using similar tactics.

A temporary ceasefire in Gaza briefly curtailed Iranian-backed militias targeting American forces in Iraq and Syria. However, with renewed fighting in Gaza, there has been a resurgence of attacks on U.S. forces in the region. The prospect of rockets launched from concealed civilian trucks targeting American positions may become increasingly common in the near future.
An emotional video of a 5-year-old Israeli girl Emelia Aloni being welcome by overjoyed school mates on Tuesday  her first day back to school after being released by Hamas terrorists  has surfaced on social media.

Exciting: Amelia Aloni returns to kindergarten after being kidnapped by Hamas terrorists two months ago pic.twitter.com/U0V7JSoWaR     Yoseph Haddad (@YosephHaddad) December 5, 2023

Emelia Aloni and her mother, Danielle, 44, were released from captivity last week, and the little girl returned to school after nearly 50 days.

In the video, Emelia can be seen waiting for her teacher to open the gate so that she can get inside the school. The teacher finally shows up and greets Emelia with a hug and a broad smile.

The video also shows a group of four school girls greeting Emelia with big hugs. Then, more kids can be seen shouting her name as they run out of the classroom.

More than 100 hostages were released during a seven-day cease-fire where Israel freed Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages. Scores more hostages are still being held by the terrorist.

Emelias mother Danielle, who had initially praised the extraordinary humanity of Hamas terrorists, has now revealed the reality, saying being abducted and held hostage was horrifying.

Danielle Aloni wrote an open letter under duress where she said her daughter was being treated like a queen.

However, 10 days after her release, she revealed the truth. On October 7, we were brutally kidnapped from our home, The Sun quoted her as saying.

Our daughter saw things that children at that age, or at any age, should not see.

It was a horror movie  you feel like you want to pinch yourself and wake up from this movie. People can die because their abductors simply decided to murder them, she added.

A few days ago, chilling images and videos surfacing online, which were reportedly released by Hamas military wing, show the masked terrorists waving goodbye to Israeli hostages after handing them over to the Red Cross.

Videos and images show the terrorists leading the hostages, handing them over and waving goodbye, while the hostages wave back.

Some of the children can be seen smiling. However, some social media users pointed out that the terrorists can be heard ordering the hostages to keep waving.

With inputs from agencies
After the presidents of Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania and Massachusetts Institute of Technology on Tuesday refused to condemn calls for violence against Jews when they were being grilled by the Congress about their responses to such incidents of anti-Semitism on their campuses, students have taken it upon themselves to protest the rise of antisemitism at MIT.

This is the same climate of anti-Semitism that has led to the massacre of Jews throughout the centuries. This is not just harassment. This is our lives on the line, MIT student Talia Khan said on Wednesday as she addressed a gathering of students.

This is the same climate of antisemitism that has led to the massacre of Jews throughout the centuries. This is not just harassment. This is our lives on the line. @MIT student Talia Khan highlights the rise of antisemitism at MIT. pic.twitter.com/zXb03xodXb  House Republicans (@HouseGOP) December 5, 2023

The students were highlighting the rise of anti-Semitism at MIT in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war.

Khan went on to elaborate that she was a student of MIT and the daughter of a Jewish mother and an African-Muslim immigrant father. She also introduced herself as the proud president of the MIT Israel Alliance and a Jewish student who was currently immersed in an extremely toxic anti-Semitism atmosphere at MIT.

Khan told the gathering that the MIT administration had failed to address the crisis of rampant anti-Semitism on MIT campus. There is a radical anti-Israel group on campus called the CAA. In recent weeks, the CAAs anti-Semitism rhetoric has shifted the culture on campus to such an extreme of intolerance that 70% of MITs Jewish students polled feel forced to hide their identities and perspectives.

She went on to add that day after day the MIT administration has failed to enforce its own rules on anti-Semitic rhetoric and anti-Semitic actors on campus.
With Sweden on the verge of joining NATO, the country has inked a defence cooperation agreement with the United States which grants Washington access to all of Swedens military bases, with the aim of enhancing regional security.

According to the Associated Press, citing Swedish Defence Minister Pal Jonson, the deal, signed in Washington on Tuesday, will improve Swedens ability to receive support from the United States in times of war or crisis.

Jonson told Swedish broadcaster SVT that it didnt mean that all 17 locations will be used but where it is most important from a military perspective for them to be able to store defense equipment, for example.

The Pentagon served as the venue for the signing, attended by Jonson and US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin.

Austin highlighted that incorporating the capabilities of the Swedish armed forces into NATO will strengthen the alliance.

We will get even stronger, said Austin.

He said the agreement sends a robust signal about the commitment to addressing security challenges collaboratively.

Gotland, Swedens strategically significant Baltic Sea island, is just over 300 kilometers from the Russian Baltic Sea exclave of Kaliningrad. This agreement mirrors a similar one with NATO member Norway in 2021, and negotiations are underway for comparable agreements with Nordic countries Finland and Denmark.

Following Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year, Sweden and Finland, traditionally non-aligned, opted to apply for NATO membership.

While Finland joined NATO in April, approval from all existing members is required for new members. Turkey and Hungary are the only NATO countries yet to formally approve Swedens accession.

Turkey, which has delayed ratification for over a year, accuses Sweden of not adequately addressing its security concerns, including its fight against Kurdish militants and other groups deemed security threats. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg recently urged Turkey to support Swedens membership, emphasizing that the time has come for this inclusion in the military alliance.

With inputs from agencies
Cautioning nations of an increased threat of terrorism influenced by the Israel-Hamas war, FBI Director Christopher Wray said that the federal investigative agency was working around the clock to prevent such potential attacks triggered by the deadly Hamas attack on southern Israeli towns and cities on October 7. The FBI chief was putting in an appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday.

Given the steady drumbeat of calls for attacks by foreign terrorist organizations since October 7, were working around the clock to identify and disrupt potential attacks by those inspired by Hamass horrific terrorist attacks in Israel, Wray said at the hearing.

The FBI chief has warned of an increased threat environment in the US since October, reiterating the war has led to an already high threat level.

Its certainly higher than it has been in a long, long time.  Post-October 7, youve seen a veritable rogues gallery of foreign terrorist organizations calling for attacks against us, Wray said, noting the day Hamas launched attacks against Israel.

The threat level has gone to a whole nother level since October 7, he said.

Wray also pointed out that the attacks have led to a surge in reported hate crimes in the United States and other European nations with the bulk targeting Jews.

Weve been opening I think 60 per cent more hate crime investigations post-October 7, then compared to the comparable period pre-October 7, the FBI Director said during testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, referring to when Hamas launched its surprise attack on Israel amid a Jewish holiday weekend.

The FBI director said the biggest chunk of those are threats against the Jewish community, but there are of course attacks  against others as well, he said, pointing to attacks against Muslim targets.
Prof. Dr. Guy Katz, Ex-Offizier der israelischen Streitkrafte auert sich kritisch zu den Aussagen von Greta Thunberg, in denen sie Israel des Volkermords beschuldigt. Im Video stellt sich der Israeli den schweren Vorwurfen und bietet Thunberg wie Ihnen eine alternative Sicht auf die Lage im Gazastreifen.

Dieser Text stammt von einem Expert aus dem FOCUS online EXPERTS Circle. Unsere Experts verfugen uber hohes Fachwissen in ihrem Themenbereich und sind nicht Teil der Redaktion. Mehr erfahren .

Katz weist auf die oft ubersehene Rolle Agyptens in der Blockade Gazas hin. Er argumentiert, dass die schwierige humanitare Lage in Gaza nicht ausschlielich Israel anzulasten sei, sondern auch Agypten eine Verantwortung trage.

Der ehemalige Offizier erklart, dass die israelischen Angriffe auf zivile Ziele, wie Krankenhauser und Schulen, in dem Kontext zu sehen seien, dass diese Einrichtungen von der Hamas fur militarische Zwecke missbraucht wurden. Er betont, dass die israelische Armee Warnungen ausspreche, bevor sie solche Ziele angreife, um zivile Opfer zu minimieren.

Katz hinterfragt zunachst die von Thunberg genannten Zahlen zu Opfern im Gazastreifen, die er aufgrund der moglichen Quellen als zweifelhaft erachtet. Er fuhrt an, dass das Leid in Gaza nicht direkt Israel zuzuschreiben sei, sondern vielmehr der Hamas, die die Region kontrolliert. Laut Katz seien die zivilen Opfer nicht allein durch israelische Aktionen zu erklaren, sondern auch durch die Taktiken der Hamas, die Zivilisten als Schutzschilde nutze und Waffen in Wohngebieten lagere.

Guy Katz, Professor fur Internationale Unternehmensfuhrung an der Hochschule Munchen, kam 2004 von Israel nach Deutschland, ist selbst Jude und arbeitete vor seiner akademischen Laufbahn im israelischen Militar als Nachrichtenoffizier. Zu den Aufgaben eines Nachrichtenoffiziers gehort vor allem die Informationsbeschaffung uber fremde Militars, Militartechnik und andere, fur die Verteidigung bedeutsame Sachverhalte.

Volkermordvorwurfe und die Realitat des Konflikts

Der Vorwurf des Volkermords wird von Katz entschieden zuruckgewiesen. Er stellt die Definition von Volkermord dar und argumentiert, dass die israelischen Handlungen nicht darauf abzielen, eine Gruppe zu vernichten, sondern Terrorismus zu bekampfen. Er behauptet, dass es vielmehr die Hamas sei, die in ihrer Charta die Vernichtung der Juden fordere.

Selektive Wahrnehmung und Ungerechtigkeiten in der Berichterstattung

Katz kritisiert, dass in Thunbergs Artikel die Opfer auf israelischer Seite sowie die breiteren regionalen Konflikte, wie der Burgerkrieg in Syrien, nicht thematisiert werden. Er betont die Wichtigkeit, alle Aspekte des Konflikts zu betrachten und nicht nur eine Seite zu beleuchten.

Der Video-Inhalt von Guy Katz auf Englisch

Um Greta Thunberg, die Chance zu geben, sich auch die israelische Seite anzusehen, hier noch das Transkript auf Englisch:

Hello, Greta. Hello. Greetings. It's me, Guy from Munich. I'm also Israeli. You know, I read your article yesterday in The Guardian. I have a few remarks about it. You write about the suffering in Gaza and that you need to talk about it. That's great. Really great. It's really, really a shame that people in Gaza have to suffer. Really. But not because of Israel, but because of Hamas. You write about 15,000 people, including 6,000 children. By the way, where do these numbers come from? Is it the Ministry of Health? The so-called one? Because it's under Hamas or maybe they come from the United Nations, because they or their employees have also had hostages in their homes. So I don't know if you can really trust them.

Then you say Israel has bombed societal infrastructure, civilian targets like hospitals, schools, shelters. Yes, why? Maybe because there are and were weapons there. Maybe because there are or were hostages there. But you know what you forgot to write? That the people who lived there, the so-called innocents, had time to get out, to leave, so that these so-called civilian targets could be looked at. And those who stayed there. Well, it's a bit difficult to distinguish whether they are Hamas fighters or not, because you know, they don't wear uniforms. But already for the videos, when they free hostages and wave nicely, then they have the Palestinian flag on them. And then? Of course, it's about the siege that prevents the 2.3 million Palestinians from being trapped, receiving food, medicine, water, and fuel.

Do you know who has been feeding them for years and providing all this? Who also gave them work, where it later turned out that these people, who could earn three to four times more in Israel than in Ex-Gaza, were giving news to Hamas and had marked houses, people, even dogs, that could be killed. Well, Israel. And a very, very short geographical lesson for you, because there is another border to another country, called Egypt. Nothing comes from there. But I don't even see the word Egypt here. Of course, only Israel is to blame for Gaza and not the brothers and sisters in Egypt. And then you write three or four times that a genocide is happening in Israel. Genocide, genocide? Do you know what genocide is? I like to quote. A genocide or genocid is characterized by the special intent to completely or partially destroy a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group as such.

Israel does not do that. Israel helps. Israel tells people to leave because there are terrorists. Israel says Hey, we actually don't want any innocents to die and do everything for it. Everything, everything. And I know, I was there myself. But you know who definitely wants to commit genocide? Hamas. They even write that on their charter. Article seven. You can read it yourself and they say it over and over again. October 7th will happen again and again until all Jews are annihilated. You can read it. Listen to it. They say it very, very officially. Israel certainly does not say that. And you know what's crazy? The Jews are the first. Sure, but then you and your friends, the other infidels, the Christians or atheists, and all those who just don't live according to the rules of Sharia, Islam. Hey, you know, maybe even in Sweden.

So I don't know. Actually, Israel is also fighting your fight. What else did you write nicely? Yes, climate justice. It's primarily about people and human rights. And you always speak up, no matter where in the world something unjust happens. That's great. Really. I think it's super. Uh, where were you but when Assad, so in Syria, annihilated half a million people? That was really genocide, very deliberate. Where were you? Were you there? I didn't hear it. And there are a few more examples from the Western world. And you know what I didn't find at all? In your whole article. And believe me, I really searched. I found nothing about all those in Israel who have died.

So, you talk once about the burning of the Israeli flag, but many, many women, for example of your age, were killed at the Nova Peace Festival. I can imagine many of them were or would have been climate activists. Probably not anymore. And you know what happened to these women? Well, I can't describe it here, but even the Americans now say that some women hostages are not being freed because they have so much to tell, because they would tell so much about what Hamas has done to them. In captivity and before captivity.

And you know what Greta? Believe me, you wouldn't have fun if you were there. Or if it was your family. So, proportionality, genocide? All these accusations? They should not be directed at Israel, but at Hamas. And by the way, 'Free Palestine' is of course very nice. Do you know against whom Hamas has also committed genocide? Well, of course, the Christians who are no longer in Gaza, for example. Or just Fatah. Because in Gaza, if you belong to the wrong party or religion, you are simply immediately annihilated. But of course, that's no problem for you, because Israel and the Jews, us, we are the problem. 
Xiaomi just launched the Redmi 13C series smartphones in India. At the end of the event, the company revealed the entire event has been shot of the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G, which will launch in India in January 2024.

To remind you, the Redmi Note 13 Pro and Redmi Note 13 Pro+ smartphones were introduced in China back in September. We can expect both the Note 13 Pro and the Note 13 Pro+ models in India next month.

Based on rumours, the company is also planning to launch the Redmi Note 13 5G / POCO X6 Neo in India. The Note 13 5G was also introduced in China at the same event, so we can also expect the phone to launch in India alongside the Redmi Note 13 Pro series, since we saw the launch of the entire Redmi Note 12 series earlier this year.

We should know more details, including the exact launch date, in the coming weeks since we have a month for the launch.

Source
'De-risking' only a lose-lose option for EU

16:55, December 06, 2023 By Wang Yiwei ( Chinadaily.com.cn

The year of 2023 marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the European Union, and this year the 24th China-EU Summit on Dec 7 will return to offline sessions for the first time since 2019.

In June 2023, the EU unveiled its Joint Communication on a European Economic Security Strategy, emphasizing a three-pronged approach in its relations with China. It formally introduced de-risking as a strategic approach toward China, aiming to enhance Europes independence in critical technological areas and raw materials supply, as well as the autonomy of production chains, considering them as serious threats to European economic security. This move seeks to diminish the capabilities of strategic competitors like China while maintaining cooperation in the majority of goods and services trade between China and Europe. It is essential to note that this approach does not imply complete decoupling.

Currently, Sino-European relations confront challenges amid geopolitical competition. The European strategy toward China, particularly its emphasis on risk reduction, may intensify tensions between China and Europe, posing challenges to practical cooperation between the two sides.

In essence, de-risking reflects a form of trade protectionism that contradicts the principles of market economy and free trade rules. Fears among EU member states stemming from Chinas substantial trade surplus has made them attribute it to what they perceive as Chinas strong government intervention. Consequently, the EU has gradually implemented restrictive measures on Chinas high-tech industries, such as limitations on importing chip materials and launching anti-subsidy investigations into low-cost Chinese electric vehicles. These actions aim to curb the development of Chinese enterprises in Europe.

From a formal perspective, the EUs de-risking policy largely appears to blindly follow the diplomatic route of the United States, which doesnt align with European interests. Despite the US and Europe different positions on China, there is a gradual convergence in rhetoric, and both sides are leveraging their dominant international mechanisms globally to collaboratively advance the de-risking process against China. This implies that Europe is compelled to sacrifice its own interests in China to serve the strategic objectives of the US. Undoubtedly, this compromises the strategic autonomy emphasized by the EU, proving detrimental to the development of friendly EU-China relations and the realization of each countrys individual interests in the international community.

From the perspective of outcomes, the de-risking policy not only fails to alleviate the security concerns that the EU harbors but also inflicts a significant blow to the collaborative relationship between China and Europe, introducing substantial risks to the deeply intertwined global economy. The core of the EUs de-risking lies in the economic domain. The strategy underscores the need for the EU to enhance its competitiveness, strengthen the unity of the European market, and intensify efforts in human capital and skill development. The EU seeks to maintain its leading position in the fields of health, digital, and clean technologies, aiming to mitigate risks associated with dependence on a single supply source.

In the present context, where China plays a prominent role in global economic growth, reducing economic ties with China would exacerbate the challenges of addressing the sluggish recovery of the world economy. This approach represents a disruption to international cooperation, undermining the previously established cooperative ecosystem and preventing the international community from rallying collective efforts to tackle global risks. The EU should adapt to the current situation and, in various domains, propel the deepening of cooperation with China.

First, cooperation between China and the EU is a pragmatic move and a significant boon for EU member states. There is no consensus among EU member states on the de-risking policy. Instead, internal disagreements exist over its perceived radical and hasty nature. Some argue for a more open attitude toward engaging and cooperating with China. The burgeoning collaboration in the Chinese-German new energy vehicle industry and comprehensive cooperation in the aviation manufacturing and materials sector between China and France exemplify the positive dynamics. The positive interactions between the two major economies in the EU can play a leading role in fostering China-EU cooperation. Additionally, the EU should break free from political and ideological constraints, redefining Chinas international role and the China-EU partnership. It should fully recognize Chinas commitment to initiatives such as the Belt and Road, the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind, and global development proposals that reflect a responsible approach by a major nation willing to share development benefits with the world.

Capitalizing on the precious opportunity presented by the upcoming leadership summit, and leveraging the growing consensus on deepening economic and trade cooperation between China and Germany, as well as the supportive forces within the European Parliament, efforts should be made to restart the Comprehensive Agreement on Investment. This could open a new chapter in the all-encompassing development of China-EU relations.

Second, there remains extensive room for cooperation between China and the EU in the fields of economy and trade, as well as collaborative efforts in climate governance related to clean energy, green manufacturing and sustainable transportation. Since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, China and the EU have jointly shouldered international responsibilities in geopolitical and international crisis management.

Third, amid the intensifying competition among major powers, China and the EU, as significant proponents of globalization, need to unite and support each other to collectively promote global peace and prosperity. The tactical easing of tensions between China and the US has removed some obstacles for the China-EU leaders summit. However, its vital for the EU to strengthen strategic autonomy.

Looking ahead at the international landscape, the enduring uncertainty and risks in the relationship between China and the US underscore the crucial role of China-EU relations in advancing global peace and prosperity. In the short term, China-EU cooperation is beneficial for fostering a positive collaborative environment; in the long term, it will contribute to the capacity building and strategic autonomy of the EU.

China-EU cooperation is an inevitable choice for China and Europe in promoting national economic development and safeguarding core national interests in the contemporary era. It is also a necessary means to drive global stability and prosperity. The EU should seize the opportunity presented by the China-EU leaders summit, discard the erroneous perception of de-risking, and continually deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the EU. Together, they can promote the stability and long-term development of bilateral relations.

The author is director of the Institute of International Affairs at Renmin University of China.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Samsung India Announces Winners of the Eighth Edition of Samsung E.D.G.E. Campus Program News -Rohit Agrawal Samsung recently announced the winners of its 8th Samsung E.D.G.E. campus programme. The initiative, which aims to foster innovation and creativity among India's young talents, saw participation from over 15,000 students. Team Edge Runners from MICA, Ahmedabad won the first prize for their Gen AI-based solution designed to enhance customer engagement. The event underscored Samsung's commitment to nurturing young, bright minds and fostering meaningful change for society.

Samsung, India's leading consumer electronics brand, recently announced the winners of the eighth edition of its pan-India campus program, Samsung E.D.G.E.

The initiative aims to provide young, bright minds a platform to exhibit their business acumen, strategic thinking, and leadership skills. This year, the competition saw an overwhelming participation of over 15,000 students from 35 esteemed academic institutions, including top B schools, engineering, and design institutes.

Winners and Their Contributions

Team Edge Runners from MICA, Ahmedabad took the first prize for their innovative Gen AI-based solution designed to enhance customer engagement at various touchpoints in stores. The team was rewarded with a cash prize of Rs 450,000, a flagship Galaxy smartphone, and a pre-placement offer from Samsung.

The first runners up, Team Creative Geniuses from IIFT, Kolkata, presented a solution that would enable a seamless customer journey through their integrated platform powered by AI and Neurosciences. They were awarded a cash prize of Rs 300,000.

The second runners up, Team Hustlers from IIM Bangalore, proposed a solution to facilitate a seamless customer journey from pre-sales to post-sales using a Gen AI-based solution. They won a cash prize of Rs 150,000.

Final Event and Samsung's Commitment to Innovation

The finale event, held in Gurugram, was attended by Mr. JB Park, President and CEO, Samsung Southwest Asia, and other senior leaders of Samsung India.

"At Samsung, we prioritize innovation as the foundation of our initiatives. Over the years, Samsung E.D.G.E. has consistently empowered students, providing a platform to showcase creative solutions and foster meaningful change for society. We are glad to see the spirit of innovation and problem-solving in these young minds," said Mr. Sameer Wadhawan, Head, Human Resources, Samsung India.

Samsung E.D.G.E. Campus Program

The Samsung E.D.G.E. program, which started in December 2016, is a unique campus initiative that allows the country's finest talents to come forward and exchange meaningful insights, thereby getting a head start in their careers.

The event concluded with the announcement of the top three winning teams, marking the end of this year's competition. However, the program's spirit of fostering innovation and creativity among young minds continues to inspire students and professionals alike.

FAQ's What is the Samsung E.D.G.E programme? The Samsung E.D.G.E programme is a pan-India campus initiative by Samsung that aims to provide a platform for young and bright minds to exhibit their business acumen, strategic thinking, and leadership skills. The programme started in December 2016.

What does the competition involve? The competition involves students from esteemed academic institutions across India presenting innovative solutions designed to enhance various aspects of business. This year's competition saw an overwhelming participation of over 15,000 students from 35 academic institutions, including top B schools, engineering and design institutes.

Who were the winners of the eighth edition of the Samsung E.D.G.E programme? The winners of the eighth edition of the Samsung E.D.G.E programme were Team Edge Runners from MICA, Ahmedabad. They took the first prize for their innovative Gen AI-based solution designed to enhance customer engagement at various touchpoints in stores.

What were the rewards for the winners? The first prize winners, Team Edge Runners from MICA, Ahmedabad, were rewarded with a cash prize of INR 450,000, a flagship Galaxy smartphone, and a pre-placement offer from Samsung. The first runners up, Team Creative Geniuses from IIFT, Kolkata, were awarded a cash prize of INR 300,000. The second runners up, Team Hustlers from IIM Bangalore, won a cash prize of INR 150,000.

What was the main focus of the solutions presented by the winners? The main focus of the solutions presented by the winners was enhancing customer engagement and facilitating a seamless customer journey. The solutions incorporated advanced technologies like AI and Neurosciences.

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Dennis received bachelor's degrees in communication and political science with a TAG degree in Spanish from The University of Akron in Ohio. He grew up in Ohio with 2 sisters and two brothers, one being his fraternal twin. He and his wife have 3 dogs: Duke, Bacio, and Cal. Dennis currently covers natural resource and environmental issues for The Daily Sentinel
This is only the Russian leader's third trip outside the former Soviet Union since he invaded Ukraine
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Snow showers early will become steadier snow overnight. Low near 30F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 80%. 1 to 3 inches of snow expected.
A collaboration between the University of Glasgow and ICCROM (International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property) brought together global heritage experts and economists to discuss the value of culture and heritage in Rome.

Valuing Cultural Capital was held at the official residence of the Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Italy and the Ministry of Culture of Italy on 5 and 6 December. The UofGs Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli, attended the event.

Over two days, delegates explored the vital role culture and cultural heritage play in bettering people's lives, and how this contribution might be acknowledged more holistically within policy and decision-making to promote wellbeing.

An evening reception began the proceedings, featuring distinguished speakers from the fields of cultural capital economics and wellbeing.

Speakers and guests were welcomed by Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli; Lizzie Lovat, Advisor of the Political and Bilateral Section of the British Embassy in Rome; Joseph King, Senior Director of ICCROM; and Erminia Sciacchitano, Senior Advisor on Multilateral Affairs at the Ministry of Culture of Italy.

Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli said: As a historic University with a rich and diverse heritage, we understand the immense value of culture to our collective understanding of key issues, the communities we serve, the economy and the wellbeing of society as a whole.

Im pleased that colleagues from the University of Glasgow are collaborating with partners like ICCROM to share their insights and expertise in this field of research, shaping our wider understanding of the hidden value of cultural capital and the social benefits that it can bring.

ICCROMs Senior Director Joseph King added: Through our collaboration, ICCROM seeks to share and disseminate the groundbreaking work that is carried out by cutting-edge research initiatives, including those in the UK.

The event featured keynote speakers David Throsby, Distinguished Professor of Economics at Macquarie University, Australia; and Harmann Sagger, Head Economist for Arts, Heritage and Tourism at the UKs Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

Professor Patrizia Riganti, Professor in Tourism in the University of Glasgows School of Social and Environmental Sustainability, joined the lively panel session that followed this.

The evenings host, Ambassador Rt Hon Edward Llewellyn of the British Embassy in Rome, stated: The link between culture and well-being  between our cultural heritage across the world and our well-being as human beings  is more acute and more keenly felt today than it has been for many years.

On the following day, ICCROM held a workshop that considered the use of economic methods as tools for informing heritage policy and investment decision-making and highlighted recent research developments.

Participants explored how cultural capital valuation methods can benefit heritage practice, providing useful tools and processes for informing community-based decision-making and driving better outcomes.

The event was well attended, with representatives from ICCROM Member States Dominican Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Costa Rica.
Six representatives of the Montana Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) traveled to Taiwan in early November to visit with trade officials and business leaders about further opportunities for partnership with the country that ranks sixth in agricultural products trade with the United States. This trade mission was led by Governor Gianforte and included representatives from Montanas agricultural, manufacturing, photonics, and bioscience industries.

Montana Farm Bureau representatives included President Cyndi Johnson, MFBF Executive Vice President Scott Kulbeck, past District 8 Director Ken Johnson, current MFBF District 2 Director J.M. Peck and MFBF District 10 Director Jim Willis, along with MFBF Senior Director of Governmental Affairs Nicole Rolf. In April, MFBF met with a Taiwanese trade delegation interested in the Treasure States agricultural commodities, especially beef and wheat. MFBF met regularly with the leading agencies throughout the past year to help guide the schedule and prepare attendees for a successful meeting.

In addition to the agricultural trade representatives, technological industries represented a growing technology industry in Montana, including photonics and bioscience, which can strengthen the partnership between Taiwan and Montana.

Montana wheat holds a well-established place in Taiwans food system and they consistently import substantial quantities from the United States. Flour millers in Taiwan appreciate the high-quality milling attributes our wheat exhibits, noted Rolf. Likewise, Taiwanese consumers enjoy our wheat. We learned that wheat products have surpassed rice products in per capita consumption. Taiwanese consumers appreciate the high-quality beef raised in the United States and are willing to pay top dollar for our premium product. There seems to be immense opportunity for growth in this sector, as well as in the technology industry. It was very exciting to learn that there is still room for growth with a well-established trading partner like Taiwan.

After an initial cultural tour of the National Palace Museum, the agricultural representatives got down to business the rest of the week. The packed schedule included meetings, tours, and dinners with trade officials and business executives from companies that import and utilize American-grown commodities. The group started with meetings at the Taiwan External Trade Association (TAITRA) & Taiwan Trade Office. They visited Breeze Nan Shan, a larger organic store where they learned about product demand and pricing, Tops Foods, a significant importer of Montana grains, and the China Grain Products Research & Development Institute, created in 1962 by the Taiwan Wheat Products Promotion Council. The organization invites experts and flour companies to work together on food projects. The group also toured Taichung Port, where grain is imported from the USA.

After studying the grain business, the focus shifted to beef, where the group visited Mayfull. Established in 1963, Mayfull is one of the largest food importers in Taiwan, specializing in beef, and includes a steak aging facility.

Montana Farm Bureau Federation hosted a networking dinner featuring U.S. beef at the Mayfull Steakhouse. President Johnson welcomed the delegation, thanking the Mayfull company for their hospitality. Board members J.M. Peck and Jim Willis sat with Mayfull CEO Jack Lee, his son Director Hank Lee, and Governor Gianforte. The two ranchers shared how Montana cattle are raised and why Montana produces the highest quality of beef in the world.

I gave the Lees and Governor Gianforte ballcaps from our ranch. Although, from what I saw in a week, ballcaps arent common headgear in Taiwan, they were excited to receive them, said Peck. I explained the significance of the cattle brands, which they werent familiar with, and they could share pictures of our cattle. As beef connoisseurs, they were more interested in the cows than the picturesque vistas and mountains of the ranch. It was the pinnacle of the trip as a beef producer, meeting with the folks who import and market the products we sell. They share the same passion for beef as we do on our ranch.

The trip was a whirlwind tour of critical agricultural industries in the beautiful country of Taiwan, said Conrad small grains farmer Cyndi Johnson. Dignitaries of government, education, and trade hosted us. It was encouraging to see the amount of thought and effort Taiwan dedicates to their consumers on that island for Montana grain. On a tour, they talked about the history of Montana grain in Tawain, which has overtaken rice as a staple. In their baking school, they have people worldwide working to develop products with Montana wheat. It makes us proud to know we can give them the quality they want. They are amazingly creative.

The MFBF president added that their value of the United States and democracy was apparent. They admire us, honor the Montana relationship and love Americans.

We were extremely honored to be a part of Governor Gianfortes Trade Mission to Taiwan, said Kulbeck. Taiwan is a freedom-loving democracy and a great trade partner. They love American agriculture, especially Montana beef and Montana wheat. We shook hands with the decision-makers purchasing Montana agricultural products and told them we value our relationship. Its important to maintain trade partnerships, especially with those with whom we have shared values.

Peck noted, The Governors Office, MFBF, and the other partner organizations did a great job putting the trip together and promoting Montana agriculture. As a cattle rancher, I think the best part was getting to meet the people of Taiwan and get some impressions of the food they eat and the culture around it. It was important to learn about their food concerns, how we can better market our products, and make some connections to promote more beef exports with Taiwan.

All the people were very nice and share many common values with the United States, Peck, a Melrose rancher, added. Having these things in common makes us good partners to trade with as we agree on the values and methods used to get food from the ranch to the dinner plate, even when the plate is across the Pacific Ocean.

Willi, who ranches north of Wilsall, said it was impressive to meet with the people who work on the trade deals with the Treasure State and that it was essential to meet with them following the governors re-opening of a trade office in Taipei two years ago.

They are our top trading partner for Montana wheat so we must maintain that relationship with them and also continue to promote our high-quality Montana beef to their consumers. Last year alone, we imported $16 million in sales of Montana beef to Taiwan.

Upon completing the trade mission, Rolf added, Governor Gianfortes Trade Mission went a long way to reinforcing our established relationships and opened a lot of doors for new ones. It was an honor for our organization to be a part of this mission.
Montana Stockgrowers Association Second Vice President Turk Stovall arrived in Taipei, Taiwan, Oct. 28, joining Governor Gianforte and a delegation of Montana business representatives. Stovall is one of 15 representatives from the Montana food and agriculture sectors and the only representative focused solely on opportunities to expand the demand of Montana beef.

While in Taiwan, Stovall worked to establish business relationships and explore opportunities for U.S. beef exports to the region. Taiwan is currently one of Montanas top trade partners, mostly for agricultural products.

In recent years, Montana Stockgrowers Association has met with Taiwans Director General and Vice Consul for lunch to discuss trade opportunities. In October 2021, MSGA hosted a delegation from Taiwan on a ranch tour at the Hahn Ranch in Townsend, and this past spring MSGA met the Director General while he was in Helena.

Stovall provided updates from Taiwan through MSGAs social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.

To learn more about the Montana Stockgrowers Association visit http://www.mtbeef.org.
On Nov. 30, Governor Greg Gianforte contributed a quarter of his salary to Hi-Line Home Programs, a nonprofit providing family-centered, home-based support services, which would otherwise be inaccessible, to children and families in northeast Mont...
Including Wokal Field / Glasgow-Valley County

As a part of his continued efforts to upgrade critical infrastructure and support Montanas rural economies, U.S. Senator Jon Tester has secured $29,315,277 for Montanas airports for repairs and improvements for runways, taxiways, safety and...
The staff of Glasgow's Subway got into the Christmas spirit with this Whoville inspired float, complete with a Grinch appearance at the Parade of Lights on Dec. 3.

The Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture presented Winter Wonderland Christmas Stroll and Parade of Lights on Dec. 2. There was something for everyone as the month of December begins and the community gets ready for the holiday season.

Sant...
The following was written to Governor Gianforte from the Montana Association of Counties (MaCO) on Nov. 28. Valley County is a member of MaCO.

Governor Gianforte:

The Montana Supreme Court clarified the State's ability to accrue 'banked mills' w...
By For the Courier

The Valley County Community Foundation is pleased to announce this years Markle Scholarship winners for those pursuing advanced degrees.

Kathleen Brandt is a 2016 Glasgow High School graduate pursuing a Doctorate of Occupational Therapy from R...
Pretrial Hearing Set for Former US Diplomat Accused of Spying for Cuba

By VOA News December 05, 2023

A pretrial hearing for former U.S. diplomat Manuel Rocha is set for Wednesday.

Rocha, a former U.S. ambassador to Bolivia, is accused of spying for Cuba since 1981. He was arrested Friday in Miami and charged with federal crimes, including acting as an illegal foreign agent and using a fraudulently obtained passport.

The U.S. government said it will bring additional charges this week.

Rocha on Monday had his initial court appearance, where he was represented by Jacqueline Arango, the co-chair of white-collar crimes and government investigations at Akerman law firm.

Rocha will remain in custody until Wednesday when he has a bond hearing in a Miami federal courtroom. Prosecutors have urged Chief Magistrate Judge Edwin G. Torres to keep Rocha detained.

The government is "still assessing the damage," around Rocha's spying, according to U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.

"We will in the coming days, weeks, months work with our partners in the intelligence community to assess any long-term national security implications for this matter," Miller said.

Authorities say Rocha's activity was exposed after a series of undercover operations, which included meetings between the former U.S. State Department employee and an FBI agent, pretending to be a Cuban intelligence agent, in which Rocha revealed information about his status with the Cuban government.

"This action exposes one of the highest-reaching and longest-lasting infiltrations of the United States government by a foreign agent," Attorney General Merrick Garland said following the arrest.

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China's Counter-Espionage Law won't impact foreign enterprises' legitimate operations: ministry

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Dec 06, 2023 11:26 AM

China's newly revised Counter-Espionage Law puts its target on only a few espionage activities that threaten the national security. The law is not aimed at normal business activities and won't impact foreign enterprises' legitimate investment and operations in China, the Ministry of State Security said on Wednesday, in a response to some misunderstanding about the law.

The revised Counter-Espionage Law is more precise, clear-cut and transparent, which embodies progress in China's legal system, the ministry said in a statement on its WeChat account.

Security is imperative for development and the foundation for maintaining an open and stable business environment, the statement said. It's a common and legitimate practice for countries to enforce laws against espionage activities and maintain national security, it said. Those people who hype up the law damaging business environment in China have ulterior motives and are seeking to talk black into white, it said.

The nature of the market economy is an economy ruled by law, and a clear and transparent legal system is the fundamental guarantee for investment and business operation, the ministry said, noting that one important purpose of the amended law is to clarify the boundary of legal and illegal operations, and help enterprises better operate in line with Chinese laws.

China is committed to high-level opening up, and has implemented multiple laws and regulations such as Foreign Investment Law in order to build a world-class, market-oriented business environment governed by a sound legal system, the statement said.

At this year's China International Import Expo, the number of attending Global Fortune 500 companies and leading industry leaders hit a record high of 289, with the value of signed transactions up 6.7 percent year-on-year, reaching $78.41 billion. In the first 10 months this year, a total of 41,947 foreign enterprises were newly established in China, up 32.1 percent year-on-year, official data showed.

"They reflect foreign enterprises' confidence of investing in China while underscore China's bright economic prospects," the ministry said.

It stressed that the revised Counter-Espionage Law is not aimed at normal business activities and won't affect all legal foreign investment and operations in China.

Espionage activities are serious crimes, which are different from businesses' normal investment, operations and research and development activities. Those activities can be clearly differentiated from normal business dealing. Those who distort Chinese law-enforcers' legal anti-espionage efforts as "cracking down on foreign enterprises" is intentional distortion of the law, out of their gangster logic, the statement read.

Those that view China's Counter-Espionage Law with tinted glasses and "the US-style concept" will get a wrong answer, it said.

China's laws give clear definitions to "national secrets" and "business secrets". The seven kinds of state secrets listed in the State Secrets Protection Law doesn't involve business secrets. The six espionage activities listed in the Counter-Espionage Law doesn't involve so-called collecting commercial information in a normal way, according to the ministry.

The ministry accused the US of defining stealing business secrets as a kind of espionage crimes in its Economic Espionage Act of 1996, abusing the law to crack down on its international competitors. The US even "fabricated evidences" to cook up about 10 cases of China-related economic espionage activities.

China's newly revised Counter-Espionage Law came into effect on July 1. The new law improves the definition of espionage activities, includes the protection of documents, data, information, and items related to national security and interests, and adds provisions that consider joining espionage organizations as espionage activities.

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Documentation of operational activity of the 551st Reserve Brigade on the outskirts of Jabalya

IDF Press Release

Press Release

01.12.23

IDF

Joint IDF and ISA announcement:

The body of the hostage Ofir Tzarfati z"l was recently located by combined IDF and ISA forces in the Gaza Strip, and was brought to Israel.

Following the identification of Ofir Tzarfati z"l on Wednesday (November 29th) by medical officials, military rabbis, the Institute of Forensic Medicine, and the Israel Police, IDF and police representatives informed the family of Ofir Tzarfati z"l of his death. Ofir was kidnapped on October 7th, from the area of the party in Re'im.

We express our deep condolences.

Our mission is to locate and return the hostages home. The IDF and the ISA are working in full coordination with the relevant national and security bodies and will continue until the task is complete.

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Following Hamas' violation of the pause: combat has resumed in Gaza;

IDF Press Release

Press Release

01.12.23

IDF

Following Hamas' violation of the pause, combat has resumed in the Gaza Strip; Since 7:00, the IDF has struck over 200 terror targets

Following Hamas' violation of the operational pause, over the last few hours, ground, air and naval forces struck terror targets in the north and south of the Gaza Strip, including in Khan Yunis and Rafah.

The IDF struck areas booby-trapped with explosives, terror tunnel shafts, launch posts, and operational command centers designated by Hamas for use in the renewed fighting.

Attached is a video of the strikes: https://bit.ly/3RkY06i

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December 5, 2023

Release

Statement from Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III on the Tragic Crash Off the Coast of Japan

I am deeply saddened by the loss of eight American troops in a tragic aircraft crash off the coast of Japan. The entire Department of Defense mourns alongside the families and the loved ones of those who lost their lives today in the service of their country. My heart also goes out to those who were serving alongside these brave men and women in Japan.

We continue to gather information on this tragic incident, and we will conduct a rigorous and thorough investigation. The United States is grateful to Japan's Coast Guard, Self-Defense forces, and local communities - including fishermen - for their search and rescue efforts.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3607331/

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December 5, 2023

By David Vergun , DOD News

DOD Seeks to Quell Violent Extremism in Africa's Sahel Region

Security in Africa's Sahel region has steadily declined over the last decade, Celeste Wallander, assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs, told the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

The Sahel is a semiarid region that extends east to west across Africa, separating the Sahara Desert to the north from the tropical savannas to the south.

Violent extremist organizations affiliated with al-Qaida and the Islamic State have taken advantage of weak governments and failed states across the region, she said.

Speaking about U.S. policy options in the region, Wallander said the Defense Department's strategy focuses on two main lines of effort.

"In the short and medium term, we will support African-led counterterrorism operations to disrupt the most acute terrorist threats, with a particular emphasis on those targeting U.S. interests."

"In the long term, we will emphasize bilateral security assistance to African defense and security forces in order to build their own homegrown capacity to counter these threats without excessive external assistance," she said.

Over the last three years, significant changes in the political environment in the Sahel have affected DOD's ability to work with African and international partners, she said.

Successive military coups in Mali in 2020, Burkina Faso in 2022, and Niger in 2023 have resulted in restrictions on DOD operations and assistance programs, she said.

Other international allies and partners have also reconsidered their presence in the region, requiring DOD to reevaluate its own posture.

"Violent extremist organizations thrive in areas of instability and seek to leverage that instability for their own ends, as evidenced by the attacks we've seen in Niger since the coup," she said.

Russia has been particularly active in stoking anti-Western sentiment and presenting its private military contractors as alternatives to Western trainers, she said.

"We also cannot afford to compromise our regional influence and security partnerships, which are threatened by competitors who are less concerned with democratic values and human rights," she said.

There's also a significant risk that violent extremist organizations might expand their influence or capabilities in the region, Wallander said.

"Given this elevated threat environment, the Department of Defense is committed to working with our interagency partners to continue to monitor and disrupt the violent extremist organization threats, while constructively engaging with regional states to restore productive, democratic governance in those countries."

"In doing so, we are consistently working to strike a balance between offering the practical assistance that our African partners need to face emerging threats, while reinforcing our professional values to help them build strong, resilient institutions that will reinforce not only their physical security, but their democratic stability," she said.

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December 5, 2023

By Jim Garamone , DOD News

Official Says 2023 Was 'Most Transformative' for DOD in Indo-Pacific

This has been the most transformative year for U.S. force posture in the Indo-Pacific in a generation, Ely Ratner, assistant defense secretary for Indo-Pacific security affairs said today.

Even with Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Hamas attack on Israel, terror attacks in the Red Sea and more, DOD has concentrated on the "pacing challenge" for the United States - China, he told the Defense Writers Group.

The U.S. Indo-Pacific defense strategy has made steady and impressive progress over the past year, Ratner said. While the force posture progress is perhaps the most notable, other aspects of the strategy have contributed to the overall U.S. position in the region.

On the defense side, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III has concentrated on China, because it "has been identified as the only country in the world with both the will and, increasingly, the capability to reshape the international order," Ratner said. "That was the assessment at the time of the release of the National Defense Strategy, and that remains the assessment today."

China has the ambition and the will and is developing the capabilities to become "the national security challenge of our time," Ratner said.

Still, the United States is rising to the challenge, the assistant secretary said.

Austin's travels throughout the region over the past year have also been marked by major achievements in implementing strategy in the region, Ratner said. In December 2022, the Australia-U.S. talks ushered in major new force posture initiatives in Northern Australia in January 2023, he said.

During talks with Japan, there were announcements of major revisions to U.S. force posture in Japan, including the stand-up of a Marine Littoral Regiment in Okinawa, the Marines most advanced fighting formation. There were other revisions that made "U.S. posture in Japan more resilient, more mobile, more distributed and more lethal," he said. In addition, the two nations agreed to increase cooperation and exercises and discussed Japan's counterstrike capabilities.

In February, Austin traveled to Manila where he negotiated for four more enhanced defense cooperation agreement sites. This enhanced the strategic opportunity for U.S. forces to work with Philippine counterparts, he said.

Austin traveled to the region in May and June, met with many allies and partners. Ratner said Austin discussed the United States' ideas for the region with these partners. The U.S. strategy is shared by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, India, Australia, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines and by some European nations as, well, Ratner said.

"This is not an American vision for the region," the assistant secretary said. "This is a vision shared by our allies and partners."

Austin visited New Delhi and signed a new defense industrial base cooperation road map. Ratner said this is a historic agreement "that is setting our countries toward a deeper level of cooperation and an area that has been aspirational for decades."

Austin became the first U.S. secretary of defense to travel to Papua New Guinea, where he signed a new Defense Cooperation Agreement. "We are looking to increase access in [Papua New Guinea] through some upgrading of their port and airport facilities and other critical step[s] in terms of working toward that more distributed posture in the region.

The secretary journeyed to Brisbane for more talks with Australian leaders that continued furthering force posture cooperation across all domains, including space.

Finally, last month, Austin spent 10 days in the region visiting India, South Korea and Indonesia, where he attended the Association of Southeast Asian Nations defense ministers meeting.

"Within a 50-day period the secretary met face-to-face with all five of our treaty allies in the Indo-Pacific region, Thailand, the Philippines, Australia, Japan and South Korea," Ratner said. "These are remarkable engagements with our allies during a time [when] there are other things going on in the world."

"We are ..., through the investments we are making, more capable in the region," he said. "We're more forward in the region due to the force-posture changes that we made. And we're more together in terms of really remarkable progress and deepening our cooperation with our allies and partners."

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Yemen: Statement by the Spokesperson on Houthi attacks in the Red Sea

European External Action Service (EEAS)

05.12.2023

EEAS Press Team

The European Union strongly condemns the missile and drone attacks by the Houthis against commercial ships on Sunday 3 December in the Red Sea. These repeated attacks endanger international navigation and the lives of members of different crews.

The EU underlines the importance of preserving navigational rights and freedoms of all vessels in the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea, in accordance with international law. Threats to international navigation and maritime security are unacceptable.

In this regard, recalling the recent statements by the G7 Foreign Ministers and the UN Security Council, the EU calls on the Houthis to immediately stop threats; refrain from further attacks to international shipping lanes; and release immediately the "Galaxy Leader" vessel and its crew, illegally seized on 19 November from international waters, in the southern Red Sea.

The EU recalls the importance of enhancing international and regional cooperation to counter threats to peace and security in the region.



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Israel expanding offensive in southern Gaza ignites worries

Global Times

Growing pressure likely to 'cast shadow over US-Israel ties'

By Chen Qingqing and Liu Caiyu Published: Dec 05, 2023 10:27 PM

Given Israel's military has been pushing its operations deeper into southern Gaza, intensifying its airstrikes and even reportedly considering flooding Gaza tunnels with seawater to drive out Hamas fighters, some Chinese experts raised concerns over the worsening humanitarian crisis. They described the offensive as reflecting Israel's determination of expanding its ground operations in Gaza despite mounting pressure from the international community.

As the Israel-Palestine conflict continues, the growing pressure could also cast a shadow over the US-Israel alliance, especially when there have been increasing divisions between the two countries, experts said. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's four trips to Israel since the beginning of the war have not helped to resolve the differences between the US and Israel.

Israel intensified its bombardment in and around Gaza's second-largest city Khan Younis early on Tuesday, as ambulances and private cars came racing into a local hospital carrying people wounded in a bloody new phase of the war in Gaza, the AP reported.

Israel said it must dismantle Hamas' extensive military infrastructure and remove it from power in order to prevent a repeat of the October 7 attack that ignited the war, the report said.

The Wall Street Journal reported on Monday that Israel has assembled a system of large pumps it could use to flood Hamas's vast network of tunnels under the Gaza Strip with seawater, a tactic that could destroy the tunnels and drive the fighters from their underground refuge but also threaten Gaza's water supply.

Such an operation would put the Biden administration in a tough position and perhaps bring global condemnation, the media report said, citing unnamed officials, and the Israeli military must carefully strike a balance between pursuing their military goals and handling growing global pressure urging them to protect civilians.

Israel renewed its offensive on the Gaza Strip Friday after the end of a week-long truce, according to media reports. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his call for a sustained humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza and the unconditional and immediate release of all hostages, his spokesperson said on Monday.

"Israel's expanding military operations in Gaza in the past two days, especially the shift to the south, shows that the previous cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas is a phased arrangement," Liu Zhongmin, a professor at the Middle East Studies Institute of Shanghai International Studies University, told the Global Times on Tuesday.

It shows that Israel wants to act across the whole of Gaza, and seek what it calls a complete elimination of Hamas, not by creating a buffer zone in the north as it stated, Liu said.

Some experts believe that Israel's plan to flood the tunnels would be a very dangerous move, which could also cause an environmental crisis.

"It's hard to avoid hurting the innocent, as there could be a lot of children and women hiding in tunnels from the air strikes," Li Weijian, a research fellow with the Institute for Foreign Policy Studies of the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies, told the Global Times on Tuesday.

Hamas is still holding many hostages, which it could leverage as part of negotiations for a comprehensive cease-fire, but Israel has vowed to eliminate Hamas, putting itself in a difficult position now, Li noted.

As long as the war goes on, Israel will find itself in a more unfavorable position, the expert warned, noting that the US is also facing growing pressure especially when it could be entangled once again into a Middle East mess.

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said Washington expects Israel to avoid attacking areas identified as "no-strike" zones in Gaza, Reuters reported on Tuesday. He said the US had discussed with Israel how long the war should continue, but he declined to share that timeline.

"The US' attitude began to change at the end of October and early November, and at the stage of the temporary interim cease-fire, the differences between the US and Israel also widened further," Liu said.

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Press Briefing by IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari December 5th, 20:15

IDF Press Release

Press Briefing

05.12.23

IDF

Good evening.

We are on the sixtieth day of the war. IDF soldiers are currently fighting in Khan Yunis, the Hamas stronghold in the southern Gaza Strip. The military wing of Hamas consists of two dominant regional brigades that serve as the strongholds for the terrorist organization. These are the Gaza City Brigade and the Khan Yunis Brigade. Our forces are advancing in dismantling Hamas' military capabilities. The four battalions of the Khan Yunis Brigade have established terrorist infrastructure both above and below ground throughout the area. The terrorists from Khan Yunis played a significant role in the terrorist attack on October 7th, where they infiltrated Israeli territory, committed a massacre, and returned to the heart of Khan Yunis. We are determined to eliminate the terrorists and damage their infrastructure as we did in the Northern Gaza Strip.

In parallel to the fighting in southern Gaza, the battle continues in the north. Our forces are engaged in the strongholds in the heart of Jabalia and Shuja'iyya. In each of these strongholds, integrated attacks from land and air are being carried out, and underground infrastructures are being destroyed. Many terrorists are being killed in face-to-face combat, and weaponry is being located. It's important to understand that we also release our own videos from the field. When our forces move within the area and clear the space, we encounter and kill terrorists. This is how we operate in clearing the area, and this will also be done in Jabalia, Shuja'iyya, and Khan Yunis.

Overall, since the beginning of the war, we have attacked over 20,000 targets across the Gaza Strip. Today, we will release special footage from a Hamas tunnel of the senior members of the Northern Brigade prior to the war. Most of those present in this photo have been eliminated, from the head of the brigade, Rendor, to other senior figures in the photo. This documentation demonstrates Hamas's use of terrorist infrastructures beneath civilian infrastructures, and additionally proves the IDF's effective strikes against the organization's senior figures in the northern Gaza Strip. This is documentation that we bring from the field, along with additional materials that we are collecting, revealing how Hamas built its operational system within the civilian medium, using civilians as human shields. We reached and killed these senior figures in their underground facilities.

In the north, IAF combat aircraft attacked a series of Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon today, including posts and military sites where weapons were stored and terrorists of the organization operated. The Chief of the General Staff visited the Southern Command headquarters of the fighting today and said that although we are focused on Gaza, where the hostages are held, we are also engaged in an ongoing operational effort aimed at improving the situation on the northern border. We are working on this around the clock and attacked in Lebanon today for this purpose.

On the home front, I call on the public to continue to be vigilant and to follow the updated instructions, as they save lives. We see the importance also due to the missile interception debris in various areas of the country. It is important to follow the guidelines. Our enemies still have capabilities, even if more limited. There is capability, one must not become complacent.

138 hostages, abducted on October 7th, are still being held in Gaza. I say 138 because today we determined that one of the missing persons, based on intelligence information we have, is defined as a hostage. It is our moral duty to bring back all the hostages home and to continue this effort at all times.

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UN says impossible to create 'safe zones' in Gaza

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Dec 5, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- The United Nations has warned that it is virtually impossible to establish so-called safe zones for civilians inside the Gaza Strip as the Israeli regime expands its bombing campaign across the besieged Palestinian territory.

"The so-called safe zones... are not scientific, they are not rational, they are not possible, and I think the authorities are aware of this," James Elder, spokesman for the UN children's agency UNICEF, told reporters on Tuesday.

The Israeli military had initially focused its airstrikes on the north of the Gaza Strip, but it has begun hitting the southern regions more ferociously since a temporary pause in fighting broke down. The regime has dropped leaflets, warning Palestinians to flee to other areas.

UN agencies have warned that no place is currently safe in the narrow strip.

Elder said that the so-called safe zones "cannot be safe nor humanitarian when unilaterally declared" by the Israeli regime. He explained that in a real safe zone "you can guarantee the conditions of food, water, medicine and shelter."

The pretence that there is a safe zone for Palestinians in Gaza is "callous," he insisted.

Around 16,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed across Gaza since October 7 when the war began, and more than 80 percent of the territory's population has been displaced.

4353**2050

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Zionist regime kills 260 Palestinians in West Bank in 59 days

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Dec 5, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- Some 260 Palestinians have been martyred by the Zionist forces in the West Bank since the onset of a Zionist aggression against Palestine 59 days ago.

Palestine's Shahab news agency has said that the Zionist attacks have also injured as many as 3,200 people in the West Bank.

It added that the number of Palestinian martyrs of the West Bank amounts to 468 since the beginning of 2023.

The Zionist regime have also imprisoned 3,580 people in this region, according to a Palestinian center in charge of the prisoners' affairs.

Ever since the Zionist invasion of Gaza, the West Bank has been witnessing anti-Zionist operations which exacerbated the Zionist aggressions in this region.

The Palestinian government's information center in Gaza earlier declared that the number of martyrs from the Israeli regime's strikes on the Gaza Strip reached over 15,000, including 6,150 children and over 4,000 women.

9341**2050

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Yemen adopts law that criminalizes recognition of Israeli regime

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Dec 5, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- Chairman of the Supreme Political Council in Yemen Mahdi Al-Mashat has said that Yemen adopted law that criminalizes recognition of the Zionist regime and normalizing ties with it.

Al-Mashat said on Tuesday that the normalization of relations with the Israeli regime is a betrayal to the Arab and Islamic Ummah.

Referring to the adopted law that criminalizes recognition of the Israeli regime, he added that this law allows Yemen to act more effectively in confronting the Zionist regime and supporting the Palestinian nation and resistance.

He noted that adopting this law is in opposition to the wrong policy of some regional regimes on normalizing ties with the occupying Zionist regime.

Yemen's position in supporting the Palestinians and resistance is unchangeable, he said, adding that his country will continue to target the Zionist regime in any way possible to stop the aggression and genocide in the Gaza enclave.

Earlier on November 2023, the Yemeni House of Representatives in Sanaa voted and passed a law "banning and criminalizing recognition of the Israeli occupation entity and normalization with it".

The purpose of the drafted law is also to "prevent the establishment of diplomatic, political, military, economic, cultural, or any other direct or indirect relations with the occupation entity".

3266**2050

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Iran refutes UK accusations of involvement in attacks on vessels in Red Sea

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Dec 5, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Nasser Kanaani has ruled out the baseless allegations leveled by the British government saying that Iran had nothing to do with the Yemeni army attacks in the Red Sea.

Referring to the baseless allegations raised by the British government against Iran about its involvement in the Red Sea attacks, Kanaani said on Tuesday that such allegations are made in line with certain political goals and indicate the attempts of the British authorities to turn the realities of the region upside down and it also shows that they are influenced by third parties, including the child-killing Zionist regime.

While condemning the unconstructive statements and actions of some British officials, who themselves are a threat to regional and international peace and stability, Kanaani emphasized that the Resistance groups in the region do not receive orders from the Islamic Republic of Iran to confront and respond to the war crimes and genocide of the child-killing Zionist regime.

He underlined that the Resistance groups in the region decide and act based on their own principles, priorities, and the interests of their country and nation.

Kanaani advised the British authorities to condemn the crimes of the occupying Zionist regime instead of making baseless allegations and spend their efforts on stopping the war crimes of the Zionist regime against the citizens, women, and children of Palestine and on facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid according to international regulations and responsibilities.

Earlier, the UK government issued a statement condemning the attack on the Zionist regime's vessels in the Red Sea and repeating unfounded allegations about Iran's links to resistance groups' operations in the region.

3266**2050

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Gaza Health Ministry warns of 'massacre' at Kamal Adwan Hospital

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Dec 5, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- The director general of Gaza's Health Ministry has voiced concerns that the same massacres that happened in the al-Shifa and Indonesia hospitals at the hands of the Zionist regime would also happen in the Kamal Adwan Hospital.

According to the Palestinian Shehab news agency, Munir Al-Bursh warned of the critical condition at the Kamal Adwan Hospital, saying there are currently 108 martyrs and dozens of wounded in the hospital.

"We fear a massacre inside Kamal Adwan Hospital, as happened in al-Shifa Hospital and the Indonesian Hospital," he said.

He also said the electricity supply to the hospital has been cut off while more than 7,000 displaced people are sheltering inside.

According to Al-Bursh, only four hospitals are active in northern Gaza and 55 ambulances are out of service.

The Zionist regime has ramped up its offensives across the Gaza Strip, including near hospitals and in the south of the besieged territory.

At least 15,899 people of been killed in the Gaza Strip, including more than 6,600 children and 4,300 women, since the occupying regime launched a deadly war on the territory on October 7.

4354**9417

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Hamas says killed 10 Israeli soldiers in Khan Yunis in southern Gaza

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 05 December 2023 6:22 PM

The military wing of the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas says its fighters have killed ten Israeli soldiers in the southern Gaza Strip, as the occupying regime continues its brutal assault on the besieged territory.

Hamas' military wing, known as al-Qassam Brigades, reported on Tuesday that the occupying regime's soldiers were killed in eastern Khan Yunis.

The military brigades added that its fighters have also struck three Israeli tanks, two personnel carriers and three military bulldozers with anti-armor shells east and north of Khan Yunis.

The latest development came two days after fighters from al-Qassam Brigades killed dozens of Israeli soldiers in their camp at a deployment point east of Juhr al-Dik.

Battles raged in Khan Yunis on Tuesday as the Israeli military pushed its air and land offensive into southern Gaza.

Israeli forces attacked the vicinity of a hospital and residential buildings in the city, leaving at least 45 Palestinians dead and dozens injured.

According to media sources, Israeli warplanes bombed the Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis as well as Palestinians' houses in Deir al-Balah.

The spokesperson of Shuhada Al-Aqsa Hospital announced that 45 Palestinians were killed after the Israeli regime's warplanes attacked civilian homes in Deir al-Balah.

He also noted that dozens of other Palestinians were injured as a result of this crime committed by the Israeli military.

The commander of the Israeli military's Southern Command, General Yaron Finkelman, called it the most intense day of combat since the beginning of the ground operation in Gaza, claiming that Israeli forces are also fighting in Jabalia and in Shuja'iyya as well as Khan Yunis.

Khan Yunis residents also said Israeli troops and tanks had crossed through the Israeli border fence enclosing Gaza and closed in on the city from the east.

Israel resumed air and ground attacks on Gaza on Friday after the end of a weeklong humanitarian pause with Hamas.

Nearly 16,000 people, most of them women and children, have been killed in Israel's aggression on Gaza since October 7 when Hamas launched an attack on Israeli occupied territories, killing 1,400 settlers and military personnel.

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Palestinians suffering 'intolerable': Red Cross chief

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 05 December 2023 5:25 PM

"The level of human suffering is intolerable, " says Red Cross President Mirjana Spoljaric as Israel has resumed its air and ground strikes on Gaza in full force.

Spoljaric, who arrived in the besieged territory on Tuesday, called for the protection of civilians whom she said "have no safe place to go in Gaza."

The Red Cross chief also noted that "with a military siege in place there is also no adequate humanitarian response currently possible."

"The last week provided a small degree of humanitarian respite, a positive glimpse of humanity that raised hopes around the world that a path to reduced suffering could now be found," she said, referring to a week-long ceasefire that came to an end on Friday.

Spoljaric said the purpose of her visit to Gaza is "to advance efforts that alleviate the desperate humanitarian situation."

"I will convey my deep concern for the plight of civilians and underlie the ICRC's utmost commitment to doing everything we can to ease their suffering," she added.

The Red Cross, however, has been under fire for not providing adequate help to Palestinians since Israel launched its brutal war on Gaza on October 7.

Israel's military said on Sunday it had carried out around 10,000 air strikes since the war started. Ever since, the regime has killed nearly 16,000 people, 70 percent of whom were women and children, according to the Gaza health ministry.

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'No safe zones' as Israelis intensify bombings on Gaza: UN

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 05 December 2023 3:47 PM

UN officials have sounded the alarm once more, saying there are "no safe zones in Gaza" while the situation is getting worse by the hour.

Since the onset of Israelis' genocidal war on Gaza nearly two months ago, occupation forces have been pounding Gaza, carrying out nonstop attacks from air, sea and land on the people trapped in the region, mass-killing the helpless civilians holed up there.

United Nations officials warned on Tuesday about the rapidly deteriorating situation.

The UN World Health Organization (WHO) representative in Gaza told reporters that the Israeli regime forces bombings had intensified in the south of the Palestinian enclave around the cities of Khan Younis and Rafah.

"The situation is getting worse by the hour," Richard Peeperkorn reported talking to the media via video link. "There's intensified bombing going on all around, including here in the southern areas, Khan Younis and even in Rafah."

He said the humanitarian aid reaching Gaza was "way too little" and said the WHO was deeply concerned about the vulnerability of the Palestinian people in the densely populated enclave as more Gazans move further south to escape the bombings. "I want to make this point very clear that we are looking at an increasing humanitarian disaster."

The WHO representative said WHO had complied with an Israeli order to remove supplies from warehouses in Khan Younis. Peeperkorn said WHO had been told the area would "most likely become an area of active combat in the coming days."

"We want to make sure that we can actually deliver essential medical supplies," Peeperkorn added.

On Monday, WHO's chief, Tedros Ghebreyesus, had asked the Israelis to reconsider the warehouses' evacuation order; however, the Zionists rejected it.

James Elder, spokesman for the UN children's agency UNICEF, said there was nowhere across Gaza for the civilians to seek refuge.

It is impossible to create a so-called safe zone for civilians to flee to inside the Gaza Strip amid Israel's bombing campaign, he insisted.

Israel had initially focused its attacks on the north of Gaza, but the Israeli regime forces now also dropped leaflets on parts of the south, telling Palestinian civilians there to flee to other parts.

"The so-called safe zones... are not scientific, they are not rational, they are not possible, and I think the authorities are aware of this," the UNICEF spokesman told reporters in Geneva via video link from Cairo.

Elder insisted that the pretense that there is somewhere safe for civilians to seek refuge is "callous."

He stressed that in a real safe zone, "you can guarantee the conditions of food, water, medicine and shelter."

Elder, who spent the past week or so in Gaza, revealed that none of that is assured in the areas designated as safe zones.

"These are entirely, entirely absent. You cannot overstate this. These are tiny patches of barren land, or they are street corners, they are sidewalks," he said. "There is no water, no facilities, no shelter from the cold and the rain (and) there's no sanitation."

Elder pointed out that in the overcrowded shelters that most of the displaced in Gaza have flocked to there had been around one toilet for every 400 people.

"Now remove those people and put them in... the so-called safe places. It's tens of thousands of people without a single toilet  not one  no clean water, nothing to drink," he said. "Without water, without sanitation, without shelter the so-called safe zones risk becoming zones of disease."

In the meantime, the Israeli regime has continued its deadly attacks across the besieged Gaza, vowing to eradicate the Palestinian resistance movement there after the Palestinian Hamas resistance group carried out Operation Al-Aqsa Storm against the occupant entity in retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people and decades of inhumane brutalities and land-grabbing policy.

Since the start of its genocide of Gazans, the Tel Aviv regime has killed at least 15,899 Palestinians, injuring 42,000 others, and leaving vast swathes of residential areas in ruins with thousands of missing and unaccounted martyrs buried under.

It has also imposed a "complete siege" on the brave Palestinians with nowhere to flee to, cutting off their fuel, electricity, food, and water, leaving them at risk of being killed in airstrikes, starving, or catching disease in the death zones assigned by the Israeli regime forces across the land.

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Caspian summit: Iran FM calls on international organizations to bring Israel to justice for Gaza genocide

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 05 December 2023 3:44 PM

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian has called for an urgent halt to Israel's ongoing aggression on the Gaza Strip, demanding active role by international organizations to bring the occupying regime to justice for its genocidal war on the besieged territory.

Amir-Abdollahian made the call during the 12th annual summit of foreign ministers of the five Caspian Sea littoral states, Caspian Five, which is hosted by Russia, in the country's capital of Moscow on Tuesday.

"The Zionist regime's war criminals must be punished in the international court," Amir-Abdollahian said as he pointed to the more than 16,000 innocent Palestinians, including women and children, killed by the Israeli regime in Gaza since the start of Operation al-Aqsa Storm in early October.

Calling for international pressure on Israel to lift the blockade on the Strip, the top Iranian diplomat said, "Stop the export of goods to the occupied Palestinian territories and boycott the goods made in Israel; this is the least [we can do] to show our sympathy for the people of Gaza."

Amir-Abdollahian also said the Islamic Republic recognizes the right of the Palestinian people to resist the Israeli occupation within the framework of international law and United Nations resolutions, underlining the necessity of restoring their right to self-determination as well as the formation of the Palestinian State with al-Quds as its capital and the return of Palestinian refugees to their homeland.

Israel launched the war on Gaza on October 7 after the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas waged the surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm against the occupying entity in response to the Israeli regime's decades-long campaign of bloodletting and devastation against Palestinians.

Nearly 16,000 Palestinians, most of them women and children, have been killed in the Israeli strikes.

Tel Aviv has also imposed a "complete siege" on Gaza, cutting off fuel, electricity, food, and water to the more than two million Palestinians living there.

'Caspian Sea should be a real symbol of friendship'

Speaking at the summit in Moscow, Iran's foreign minister called for more maritime cooperation between the five countries bordering the Caspian Sea while stressing the significance of security and stability in the region.

Amir-Abdollahian said all decisions regarding the issues on the Caspian Sea must be made with the "consensus and agreement" of the five littoral states of Iran, Russia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.

"To make the Caspian Sea a real symbol of friendship, progress and development, we need to strengthen collective interaction and cooperation as much as possible," he added.

Amir-Abdollahian also touched upon environmental challenges facing the Caspian Sea and its littoral states such as the alarming decrease in its water level.

Stressing the need to preserve the environment and resources of the Caspian Sea for future generations, the top Iranian diplomat added, "The Caspian Sea is considered a strategic region due to the fact that it is the connecting link of the North-South and East-West corridors."

Amir-Abdollahian said security in the Caspian Sea is a collective interest of all coastal countries, saying they shoulder the responsibility to maintain stability, security and sustainable development in the strategic sea.

Formation of a secretariat

The Iranian foreign minister also called for the establishment of a secretariat or an organization that can manage and monitor various fields of cooperation among the Caspian Five member states.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomes the development of a blue economy and joint investment in the fields of maritime transport, ports, fisheries, maritime tourism, the creation of free-trade zones and reasonable and sustainable exploitation of the living resources of the Caspian Sea," Amir-Abdollahian underlined.

Iran's foreign minister departed Tehran for Moscow on Monday to participate in the Caspian Five summit, which focuses on the important issues related to the Caspian Sea, such as security, trade, energy, environment and legal issues.

Over the past decade, Iran has attached high priority to the consolidation of relations with neighboring countries in the region, clinching landmark agreements and entering international economic coalitions as part of the Islamic Republic's policy of confronting Western unilateralism.



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Persian Gulf leaders, Erdogan call for end to Israel's 'blatant aggression' in Gaza

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 05 December 2023 3:41 PM

Leaders of the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan have jointly condemned Israel's "blatant aggression" against the Palestinian people.

They also warned that the Israeli regime's war on the Gaza Strip will have "dire consequences" for the entire region and the international community as well.

The leaders of the six nations of the GCC Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Bahrain, and Kuwait  and President Erdogan stated at the end of the 44th session of the Council in the Qatari capital Doha, on Tuesday.

They condemned Israel's relentless bombardment of the Gaza Strip and called for the implementation of a permanent ceasefire in the Palestinian territory, where Israeli forces have killed more than 15,899 people, 70 percent of whom were women and children, since October 7.

The leaders also warned that Israel's war on Gaza would lead to "dire consequences for the peoples of the region and international peace and security."

In the statement, the leaders also called on the international community to intervene to establish a permanent ceasefire.

They also agreed to help rebuild "what the Israeli war machine destroyed in its attacks on the Strip during the past years."

Qatar's ruling emir and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also condemned Israel's war crimes and called for a ceasefire, in separate remarks at the summit.

World must be ashamed for 'turning its back' on Gaza: Qatar's emir

Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, who hosted the summit, said in his opening remarks that it is a disgrace to the international community to allow this heinous crime to continue for more than two months.

"Why is the international community turning their back on Palestinian children and adopting dual standards?"

He noted that his country "will continue to make effort with other regional and global players to have a permanent ceasefire established and all the aggression against the Palestinian people come to a halt."

Netanyahu committing war crimes: MBS

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin "Netanyahu is committing war crimes against humanity in Gaza."

Bin Salman said Netanyahu "is pushing the entire region into danger for the sake of his political future."

Netanuahy gambling with region's future: Erdogan

Turkey's president Erdogan who attended the summit as a guest, also warned that the prime minister of Israel "is gambling with the entire region's future."

He also reiterated that "Israel's war crimes and its crimes against humanity in Gaza should not be left unanswered."

The Turkish leader also said that his country's priority is to "ensure that a permanent ceasefire is implemented in Gaza and humanitarian aid is delivered without any interruption."

Erdogan has repeatedly called for the occupying regime to be held accountable for war crimes in Gaza since Tel Aviv waged its war on the populated Palestinian territory.

He said on Saturday that Netanyahu, "the butcher of Gaza," must be tried in the International Criminal Court (ICC).





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France announces sanctions on Hamas chief in Gaza amid Israeli genocide

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 05 December 2023 2:55 PM

France has imposed sanctions against a senior official with the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas, amid Israel's devastating war waged on the blockaded Gaza Strip.

Media report said on Tuesday that the French measures would freeze assets belonging to Hamas Gaza chief Yahya Sinwar.

He is the latest leader from the resistance group to be added to Western sanctions list. France on Nov. 13 imposed sanctions at a national level on Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif and his deputy, Marwan Issa.

Paris is working with partners to impose sanctions on Hamas individuals and its financing network at the European Union level.

Several EU states in recent weeks have come under pressure from the US and Israel to impose new sanctions on the Palestinian resistance group. Germany, France and Italy have proposed new sanctions in a so-called non-paper (a non-official EU document).

In the three-page document, dated November 9, they write that "it is important to step up engagement to isolate Hamas internationally and delegitimize narrative of Hamas as 'defender of the (just) Palestinian cause.'"

The document adds that "once political conditions are right," these new measures should ideally be implemented by a broad coalition of states.

The aim is to deprive Hamas of resources, as well as target its infrastructure inside and outside Gaza and its political and public standing.

France wants the European Union to impose sanctions against top Hamas leaders following the Palestinian group's operation al-Aqsa Storm.

France "is pushing for sanctions at the European level against senior Hamas figures, individually, because for the moment ... the European Union only condemns the organization as a whole," Laurence Boone, secretary of state for European affairs, earlier said on the sidelines of an international meeting in Madrid.

The idea would be to "specifically target certain individuals" with "mainly financial" sanctions such as an asset freeze, she added without specifying who should be targeted.

France's proposal could be adopted by EU foreign ministers in December, Boone said. It has the backing of Germany and Italy, according to her entourage.

The United States in October imposed sanctions against 10 "key" members of Hamas based in Gaza, Sudan, Turkey, Algeria and Qatar.

Among the general public, opinion polls show most Americans and Europeans back an end to Israel's war in the besieged enclave.

In recent weeks, senior Western officials have said they wouldn't be drawing any red lines for Israel, which has killed thousands of Palestinian civilians during a yet-ongoing war against the Gaza Strip.

So far this year, the US and its European allies have provided Israel with at least several types of weapons. However, the type and number of weapons are not publicly known due to secrecy about the shipments.

Experts have said these Western weapons are likely being used extensively by Israeli forces against Palestinians in Gaza.

Israel is the single largest recipient of US and European foreign aid since World War II.

Two months into Israel's genocidal onslaught on Gaza, the regime continues with its air assault and ground operation in the besieged Palestinian territory.

At least 25 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli bombings over the past few hours.

Civilian structures including schools, hospitals and mosques have also been targeted.

Gaza health officials say the regime is now encircling Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza with tanks.

They say snipers are shooting at anyone moving in the area. In the south, the regime dropped leaflets, telling Palestinians to flee to other areas.

Residents on the ground say the intense Israeli airstrikes in the south include areas where Israel had earlier told people to seek shelter.

Israel has sent dozens of tanks into southern Gaza as the regime expands its ground offensive into the blockaded territory. Israeli military officials claim they are in pursuit of Hamas members in their Gaza operation.

Since the start of the war on October 7, nearly 16,000 Palestinians, including more than 6,000 children, were killed by Israeli aggression during the past two months. Many more are feared to be buried under the rubble.

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Iran rejects UK accusations of involvement in Yemeni attacks on Israeli ships in Red Sea

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 05 December 2023 1:44 PM

Iran has dismissed accusations by the British government of involvement in a series of Yemeni attacks in the Red Sea, stressing that the resistance groups in the region do not receive orders from Tehran on how to respond to the Israeli regime's war crimes.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan'ani made the remarks in a statement on Tuesday, saying Tehran had nothing to do with the attacks that targeted Israeli ships in the Red Sea a day earlier.

"Such allegations are made in line with certain political goals and indicate the efforts of the British authorities to turn the realities of the region upside down and it also shows that they are influenced by third parties, including the child-killing Zionist regime," he said.

He also condemned the counterproductive statements and actions of some British officials, describing them as "a threat to regional and international peace and stability."

The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman further emphasized that "the resistance groups in the region do not receive orders from the Islamic Republic of Iran to confront and respond to the war crimes and genocide of the child-killing Zionist regime," adding that "these groups decide and act based on their own principles and priorities and the interests of their country and people."

Instead of making baseless accusations, Kan'ani said British authorities had better condemn the Israeli crimes, spend their efforts on stopping the occupying regime's war crimes against the Palestinian women and children, and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid according to international regulations.

The latest development came a day after the British Foreign Ministry condemned the Yemeni army's attack on Israeli ships in the Red Sea. It repeated allegations about Iran's connection with the operations of the resistance groups in the region, holding Tehran responsible for such attacks.

On Monday, the Yemeni army targeted two Israeli ships in the Red Sea as they were attempting to cross the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Brigadier General Yahya Saree, the spokesman of the Yemeni armed forces, said the Israeli ships' passage was disrupted in support of the Palestinian nation.

Also on November 19, Ansarullah fighters boarded a commercial ship believed to be ultimately owned by a major Israeli businessman with links to the Tel Aviv regime.

The Yemenis have said that any ship with links to Israel will be a legitimate target if it passes the waters off Yemen's ports in the Red Sea.

Reports have shown that Israeli shipping companies have already decided to reroute their vessels in fear of attacks by Yemeni forces.

Yemeni forces have also launched missile and drone attacks on targets in the Israeli-occupied territories of Palestine after the aggression on Gaza began in early October.

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President Raeisi: Genocide of Palestinians will spell end of Israeli regime

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 05 December 2023 9:18 AM

Iran's President Ebrahim Raeisi says the Israeli regime's killing of innocent Palestinian women and children will spell the end of the occupying entity.

Raeisi made the remarks at the Iranian parliament on Tuesday, as the brutal Israeli war on the Gaza Strip has killed almost 16,000 Palestinians, 70 percent of them women and children, over the past two months.

"The cruelty against the oppressed and powerful people of Palestine is a source of regret for all of us and humanity," he said.

"We believe that the martyrdom of Palestinian women and children will end the fake Zionist regime and that we will witness the victory of Palestinians as well as the elimination of Israelis."

The Iranian chief executive also expressed dismay at the support provided by the self-proclaimed human rights advocates, the US and the Western countries, for the Israeli genocide of the Palestinian people.

"It is more unfortunate that the international organizations and institutions, which are responsible for defending the oppressed, have lost their efficiency in the face of the global arrogance and the US power," he added.

"However, we are not disappointed. We believe that nations have stood up today ... for human rights, the implementation of justice and a new world order."

Israel waged the bloody war on Gaza on October 7 after the Palestinian Hamas resistance group carried out Operation Al-Aqsa Storm against the occupying entity in retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people.

Since the start of the offensive, the Tel Aviv regime has killed at least 15,899 Palestinians, injured 42,000 others, and left vast swathes of Gaza in ruins.

It has also imposed a "complete siege" on the Palestinian territory, cutting off fuel, electricity, food, and water to more than two million people living there.

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Gaza 'hellish scenario': UN says aid delivery grinds to halt as Israeli war rages

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 05 December 2023 7:56 AM

UN Humanitarian Coordinator has warned of a "hellish scenario" unfolding as the flow of aid in Gaza has come to a grinding halt, as a humanitarian crisis is unfolding in the besieged territory.

Lynn Hastings, the UN humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories, said on Monday that conditions for aid delivery to the Strip are nonexistent.

"The conditions required to deliver aid to the people of Gaza do not exist," she said, adding that the aid devilry is also complicated as two major roads in Gaza have been declared off-limits to UN teams and trucks.

According to Hastings, since the 7-day truce ended on Friday, the Israeli military has forced "tens of thousands... into increasingly compressed spaces, desperate to find food, water, shelter, and safety," in southern Gaza.

Since the onset of the war nearly two months ago, the Israeli regime has ordered the forced evacuation of Palestinians to the south claiming that the southern part of Gaza is safe.

However, after the breach of the truce, Israel called the southern city of Khan Yunis "a dangerous combat zone," telling the people there to move to the border city of Rafah or a coastal area in the southwest.

"If possible, an even more hellish scenario is about to unfold, one in which humanitarian operations may not be able to respond," Hastings added.

She slammed the idea of "safe zones" urged upon Israel by the US government, where people are still unable to move about freely.

"Nowhere is safe in Gaza and there is nowhere left to go."

According to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) 1.9 million people, more than 80 percent of the population, have been internally displaced in Gaza since October 7 due to Israel's unrelenting bombardment.

In a statement released on Monday, UNRWA said Israeli airstrikes were ongoing even where people are being forced to flee such as the border city of Rafah.

Hasting warned that today Gaza is a "textbook formula for epidemics and a public health disaster."

"What we see today are shelters with no capacity, a health system on its knees, a lack of clean drinking water, no proper sanitation, and poor nutrition for people already mentally and physically exhausted."

The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas says Israeli forces have directly bombed 14 hospitals. A few of the medical facilities in the Palestinian territory are now functional and they are inundated with thousands of the wounded.

According to the UN, only 5 percent of Gazans have access to drinking water. Aid agencies have warned that lack of access to clean and sanitary water would increase the risks of outbreaks such as cholera.

Hastings is currently stationed in al-Quds, though Israel recently notified the UN that her visa will not be extended accusing her of lacking impartiality.

Israel unleashed the war on Gaza after Hamas launched Operation al-Aqsa Storm against the regime on October 7. Since then nearly 16,000 Palestinians have been killed, most of them women and children.

Nearly two months into Israel's bloody onslaught on Gaza, the regime is wreaking havoc across every corner of the territory, leaving a trail of death and destruction also cutting off one of the most densely-populated places in the world from basic supplies such as water, electricity, medicines, and fuel leaving millions of Palestinians at risk of starvation.

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Israeli forces kill 5 Palestinian men in raids across occupied West Bank

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 05 December 2023 2:06 AM

Israeli forces have killed five Palestinian young men during violent raids across the occupied West Bank amid the regime's genocidal war on the besieged Gaza Strip.

According to the Palestinian Information Center, citing the Palestinian Health Ministry, the five men lost their lives in separate attacks by the regime's forces on Monday.

The ministry said two Palestinians were killed after Israeli forces stormed the town of Sa'ir, northeast of the West Bank city of al-Khalil, also known as Hebron, opening fire on the town's residents who responded by throwing firecrackers and rocks at the regime's troops.

The victims were identified as 23-year-old Anas Ismail al-Faroukh and 22-year-old Muhammad Saadi al-Faroukh.

Earlier on Monday, and in the West Bank's northwestern city of Qalqilyah, Israeli troops raided Palestinian civilians, killing two more young men in the ensuing confrontations.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said the victims' bodies were then seized by Israeli forces.

The fifth Palestinian was killed during an attack by the regime's forces on a refugee camp in the town of Qalandiya in central West Bank, while 18 others were injured. He was identified as 23-year-old Ali Ibrahim Alqam, who was shot in the heart during the raid.

According to the Health Ministry, the new fatalities raise Palestinians' death toll in the West Bank since the beginning of this year to 465, including 257 people who have lost their lives since October 7.

The regime has exceptionally intensified its attacks against Palestinians throughout the West Bank since that day, when it launched a devastating war on the besieged Gaza Strip.

Nearly 16,000 Palestinians have been killed and approximately 1.9 million others displaced so far as a result of Israel's onslaught on the coastal territory.



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Papua New Guinea, Australia to sign security agreement this week

The pact will allow for Australian police to work closely with Papua New Guinea's police.

By Harlyne Joku for BenarNews 2023.12.05 -- Papua New Guinea and Australia will sign a broad security cooperation agreement this week that includes an Australian police presence in the Pacific island country that suffers frequent ethnic conflicts.

The agreement will also reinforce the two countries' mutual security interests in the Pacific and allow for the possible establishment of a regional police academy in Papua New Guinea, the island country's Prime Minister James Marape said Tuesday.

"The security arrangement is in the best interest of Papua New Guinea and also for Australia and its regional security interests," Marape said in a statement. Any Australian police in Papua New Guinea would work under the local police's chain of command, the statement said.

Stability for Papua New Guinea, which gained its independence from Australia in 1975, has remained elusive as it grapples with tribal violence and challenges such as corruption and lack of infrastructure.

Parts of the mountainous country, which makes up the western half of New Guinea island and shares a long border with Indonesia, have been largely outside central government control for decades. Its election last year was marred by deadly violence and lawlessness in highlands provinces is an ongoing threat to national security and economic development.

Australia and the United States have sought closer security and defense relations with Papua New Guinea, the most populous Pacific island nation, in response to China's inroads in the region.

China, over several decades, has become a substantial source of trade, infrastructure and aid for developing Pacific island countries as it seeks to isolate Taiwan diplomatically and build its own set of global institutions.

Last year, China signed a security pact with the Solomon Islands, alarming the U.S. and its allies such as Australia. The Solomons and Kiribati switched their diplomatic recognition to Beijing from Taiwan in 2019.

Marape said the agreement for closer security relations with Australia would be signed in the Australian capital Canberra on Thursday.

"Australia and Papua New Guinea share common security interests, and such security arrangements are vital to maintaining law-and-order in the region, safeguarding economic and trading interests," Marape said.

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Marape had at the beginning of this year urged officials to complete negotiations by the end of April.

Papua New Guinea and the U.S. signed a defense cooperation agreement in May, which once ratified would give the U.S. military unrestricted access to six air and sea ports in the island nation. The U.S. would have criminal jurisdiction over American military personnel in Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea's opposition leader has sought a Supreme Court review of the legality of the agreement, which critics say would impinge on the country's sovereignty.

Marape said the agreement with Australia will extend to potential Australian support for Papua New Guinea's Bomana Police Academy, which recruits and trains police cadets.

Papua New Guinea has one police officer for about every 1,800 people, nearly four times less than the level recommended by the United Nations to ensure law and order, according to a Griffith Asia Institute report released earlier this year.

The ratio of police to people has declined substantially in the past half century as Papua New Guinea's population tripled to more than nine million, the report said.

BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated online news organization.

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 December not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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China seeks a more 'inclusive' Taliban

Beijing last week became the first country to accept an ambassador from Afghanistan's new government.

Alex Willemyns and Adile Ablet for RFA 2023.12.05 -- Beijing has urged Afghanistan's Taliban government to adopt more "inclusive" and "moderate" policies in order to receive full diplomatic recognition, which Beijing said "will come naturally" with time.

The warming relations come, experts say, as Beijing seeks access to Afghanistan's vast mineral deposits, including its copper mines.

China last week became the first country to accept the credentials of an ambassador from the Taliban, which retook control of Afghanistan in August 2021 after the withdrawal of U.S. forces but is not yet formally recognized as the government of the country by any state.

Assadullah Bilal Karimi, a former Taliban spokesperson believed to be in his early 30s, handed credentials to Hong Lei, the director-general of the protocol department of China's foreign ministry, on Friday.

On Tuesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said that as "a long-standing friendly neighbor of Afghanistan," China wanted to help the Taliban emerge from isolation. But he said the regime had to pursue reform to receive full diplomatic recognition.

To that end, Wang called on the Taliban to adopt "moderate and prudent domestic and foreign policies" and an "open and inclusive political structure," as well as to combat "all forms of terrorist forces."

"China believes that Afghanistan should not be excluded from the international community," Wang said. "We believe that diplomatic recognition of the Afghan government will come naturally as the concerns of various parties are effectively addressed."

Afghanistan is the only country that bans women from being educated, which many countries cite in boycotting ties with the Taliban.

China's approximately 12 million Muslim Uyghurs, meanwhile, have been subject to harsh government campaigns that China says are necessary to fight extremism and Islamic terrorism, including a mass incarceration program that has affected as many as 1.8 million people.

China also regularly conducts "strike hard" campaigns in Xinjiang, including police raids on Uyghur households, restrictions on Islamic practices, and curbs on the culture and the Uyghur language.

The Taliban previously had a charge d'affaires at Afghanistan's embassy in Beijing, a position that does not require formal recognition of the host country, according to a report from Reuters.

A friend in need

In receiving an ambassador from Afghanistan's new government, Beijing has also beaten out the Taliban's erstwhile benefactors - Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, the only countries to recognize the Taliban regime before its 2001 ouster.

That has raised questions about China's urgency.

Part of the draw for China, according to Ja-Ian Chong, an expert in Chinese foreign policy at the National University of Singapore and a nonresident scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, is more stable relations with a country on its land border.

Working with the Taliban could also help China to "develop support in the Islamic world against criticism of its human rights abuses in Xinjiang" against the Uyghur Muslim minority, Chong told Radio Free Asia, "while allowing access to mineral resources in Afghanistan."

For other experts, though, it's mostly the latter, with China motivated by more than just good ties with neighbors and its regional reputation.

Anders Corr, principal of New York-based Corr Analytics, said an "extra vote at the United Nations" and a new ally would be nice upshots of wider diplomatic recognition for the Taliban. But he said that was not why China was so "quick to jump on this side of these terrorists."

"China has financial and business interests in Afghanistan," Corr said.

"They want to extract oil from the country. There's not as much as in other countries, but there is some," he said. "There's a lot of copper - probably trillions of dollars worth of mineral resources in Afghanistan that China has, for years, been involved in trying to extract."

Mineral wealth

China has a long-held interest in the Mes Aynak mine, which lies about 40 kilometers (25 miles) southeast of Afghanistan's capital and reportedly has about $50 billion worth of copper deposits that have yet to be extracted.

A Chinese government official recently visited the mine, according to a Voice of America report, which quoted the Taliban's minister of mining, Shahabuddin Delawar, as saying the extraction of copper from the mine was "one of the top priorities" of the government in Kabul.

And then there's Afghanistan's strategic location.

Afghanistan was a central part of the Silk Road, which China's Belt and Road Initiative seeks to emulate. The Taliban said it in October it wants to formally join the project, which would lead to hundreds of millions of dollars pouring into the country for infrastructure projects.

"China needs Afghanistan, and Afghanistan also needs China," China's charge d'affaires in Kabul, Zhao Haihan, said in September, lauding "Afghanistan's geographical and resource advantages" while calling it the "center of Silk Road trade" and "crossroad of Eurasia."

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 December 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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Chinese warships dock at Cambodia's Ream naval base for 'training'

Until now, there has been no known instance of foreign warships gaining access to the naval base.

By RFA Staff 2023.12.05 -- Several Chinese warships have arrived at Ream naval base in Cambodia "in preparation for training" the Cambodian Navy, according to a Cambodian official, a rare move accompanied by a Chinese general's visit to Phnom Penh that is expected to further bolster ties between two countries.

Cambodia's minister of defense Tea Seiha said on his Facebook page last Sunday that he paid a visit to the base, currently under construction with help from Beijing, with his father and predecessor Tea Banh.

Tea Banh was awarded the prestigious title Samdech Pichey Sena - which roughly translates as "greatest, victorious commander" - in 2017 and still retains much influence over the military despite having ceded the post to his son.

The duo visited the People's Liberation Army (PLA) naval ships "docked at the Ream sea port in preparation for training our Cambodian Navy crew," reads the post, adding that they "inspected the infrastructure construction which is actively going according to the plan" and that the base's development "will take the navy's capability to a higher level."

It is unclear how many PLA ships are in Ream and how long the training would last but in the accompanying photos at least two ships were visible.

Satellite images from the imaging company Planet Labs on Dec. 3 also show two vessels, likely corvettes or frigates, docking at the new pier in the base's center-west.

This indicates a further, deeper involvement by the PLA Navy in Cambodia.

Until now, there has been no known instance of foreign warships gaining access to the Ream naval base. Russian Navy's anti-submarine destroyer Admiral Panteleyev while on a visit to Cambodia on Nov. 27 was docked at the Sihanoukville port some 20 kilometers (12 miles) away.

Cambodia's strategic thinking

Radio Free Asia has reported on the rapid development of the Ream naval base over the past year.

One of the most striking features is the new deep-draft pier that could accommodate aircraft carriers including the PLA's third carrier Fujian.

Cambodia has repeatedly denied that China is being given exclusive military access to the base, saying that would be in contradiction to the country's constitution. If operating from the base, this would be China's first naval staging facility in Southeast Asia and the second foreign base in the world after Djibouti.

Cambodian scholar Chansambath Bong, deputy director of the think tank Asian Vision Institute (AVI), wrote in a new article that "the debate on the re-development of the Ream Naval Base is dominated by Western media and analysts who view Cambodia predominantly through the lens of U.S.-China competition in Southeast Asia and who lack the background in Cambodia's history and strategic thinking."

In the article published by the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI) Chansambath Bong argued that "the ongoing re-development of the Ream Naval Base is strategically vital for Cambodia's maritime governance."

"In Cambodia's view, Ream's re-development is overdue and within its constitution and rights as a sovereign state," he added. "Cambodia has leveraged its external ties to address its self-defense and maritime security challenges."

Community of Common Destiny

The visit of the PLA warships takes place as a Chinese top general pays a visit to Cambodia to promote the "ironclad" friendship between the two countries and two militaries, according to China's state-run Xinhua News Agency.

On Monday Gen. He Weidong, vice chairman of China's Central Military Commission, met with Cambodia's leaders including Prime Minister Hun Manet and his father Hun Sen, president of the ruling Cambodian People's Party.

He also held talks with Defense Minister Tea Seiha to exchange "views on bilateral relations, military cooperation, and international issues of common interest."

"The two militaries have sustained high-level cooperation in the fields including high-level exchange, mechanism building, joint drills and exercises, and personnel training," he was quoted as saying.

This year marks the 65th anniversary of China-Cambodia diplomatic relations and the Chinese general "expressed confidence" that Beijing and Cambodia will further strengthen the so-called "Cambodia-China Community of Common Destiny."

"Community of Common Destiny" is a relatively new concept frequently used by Chinese leader Xi Jinping to describe China's vision of international relations.

RFA Khmer's Samean Yun contributed to this report. Edited by Taejun Kang and Mike Firn.

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 December 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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Former Deputy PM Of North Macedonia Barred From Entering U.S. Over Corruption

By RFE/RL December 05, 2023

The former deputy prime minister of North Macedonia, Kocho Angjushev, Kocho Angjushev has been barred from entering the United States for what the U.S. State Department said was his "involvement in significant corruption."

"While serving as Deputy Prime Minister, Angjushev abused his official position to benefit his private business interests, undermining the confidence of North Macedonia's public in their government institutions and public processes," the State Department said in a statement on December 5.

"Today's action demonstrates the United States stands with those in North Macedonia who seek accountability of corrupt public officials," it added, noting Angjushev's wife, Elizabeta, and children, Angel and Ognen, are "generally ineligible" for entry into the United States as well.

The State Department statement did not give specific instances of corruption by Angjushev.

The 54-year-old Angjushev, considered one of North Macedonia's richest citizens, served as a deputy prime minister for economic affairs from 2017 to 2020 under Prime Minister Zoran Zaev.

Corruption has long been an issue for the country, which is trying to enact reforms as it strives for membership in the European Union after applying for accession in 2004.

Earlier this year, the U.S. AID agency said corruption in North Macedonia "continues to erode trust in institutions, weakens accountability and transparency, obstructs economic growth, and contributes to political fragility

and instability."

The European Commission said in a report last month that corruption remains "prevalent in many areas and is an issue of concern" and that "no progress was made" on the issue in recent months.

In Transparency International's 2022 Corruption Perception Index, North Macedonia scored 40 out of 100, ranking it 85th among 180 countries in the survey, just above Belarus and Moldova.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/north-macedonian-official- barred-us-corruption/32715674.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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Kyrgyz, Tajik Officials Say More Disputed Segments Of Border Agreed Upon

By RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service, RFE/RL's Tajik Service December 05, 2023

Officials from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan say the two countries agreed on another 24 kilometers of the border between the two former Soviet republics after special talks on the issue were held over the past week.

Tajikistan's State Committee for National Security said on December 5 that the talks were held in the northern town of Buston, near the Kyrgyz border.

According to the Kyrgyz government, the next round of talks regarding other parts of the border will be held on Kyrgyzstan's territory on a day that is still to be determined.

The delimitation and demarcation of the Kyrgyz-Tajik border has been an issue for decades, but turned into an extremely urgent problem in recent years after several deadly clashes took place along disputed segments of the frontier.

In spring 2021, an armed conflict along one segment of the border left 36 Kyrgyz nationals, including two children, dead and 154 injured on the Kyrgyz side.

Tajik authorities officially said that 19 Tajik citizens were killed and 87 were injured during the clashes. However, local residents told RFE/RL's Tajik Service at the time that the number of people killed in the clashes was much higher.

In all, the border between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan is 972 kilometers long, of which 688 kilometers have now been agreed upon, while the rest remains disputed.

Many border areas in Central Asian former Soviet republics have been disputed since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.

The situation is particularly complicated near the numerous exclaves in the volatile Ferghana Valley, where the borders of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan meet.

Tensions in those areas have led to clashes between local residents and border guards of the three countries.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kyrgyzstan-tajikistan-border- sections-agreed/32714655.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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Russia Sends Over 288 Tonnes of Humanitarian Aid for Gaza Residents

Sputnik News

20231205

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Russian Emergencies Ministry has delivered more than 288 tonnes of humanitarian aid to residents of the Gaza Strip since the start of hostilities on October 7, Director of the Information Policy Department of the Emergencies Ministry Roman Okhotenko said on Monday.

"In total, 12 flights of the Russian Emergencies Ministry have already delivered more than 288 tonnes of humanitarian aid to the city of Arish for the residents of Gaza," Okhotenko said.

On October 7, Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel from the Gaza Strip and breached the border. Israel launched retaliatory strikes and ordered a complete blockade of Gaza, cutting off supplies of water, food, and fuel. On October 27, Israel launched a ground incursion into the Gaza Strip with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages.

On November 24, Qatar mediated a deal between Israel and Hamas on a temporary truce and the exchange of some of the prisoners and hostages, as well as the delivery of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. The truce was extended several times and expired this past Friday, when the Israeli military resumed fighting against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, saying the group had violated the humanitarian pause.

 Sputnik

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Joint Statement on the Small Group of the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh/ISIS

US Department of State

Media Note

Office of the Spokesperson

December 5, 2023

The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and the Italian Republic on the occasion of the Small Group of the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh/ISIS.

Begin Text.

The Italian Republic hosted a meeting of senior diplomatic representatives from the Small Group of the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh/ISIS today in Rome. Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Edmondo Cirielli presided over the family photo. Meeting host Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Political Director Pasquale Ferrara, along with co-host United States Deputy Special Envoy for the Coalition Ian McCary, updated partners on collective efforts to counter ISIS in northeast Syria, Iraq, sub-Saharan Africa, and Central Asia.

The Global Coalition continues to adapt its counterterrorism strategies to reflect the realities of the current threat landscape and today agreed to update its Guiding Principles which highlight the increasing regionalization of Coalition efforts and emphasize the pivotal role of civilian-led initiatives to counter ISIS and its global affiliates.

Members of the Coalition expressed satisfaction with the 2023 Coalition Stabilization Pledge Drive for liberated areas of Syria and Iraq, emphasized the importance of implementing these pledges, and celebrated the Government of Iraq's development into a full counterterrorism partner. To ensure the lasting defeat of ISIS in this region, Coalition members agreed to prioritize respective efforts addressing humanitarian and security needs in displaced persons camps and detention facilities in northeast Syria.

In a collective commitment to defeat ISIS affiliates in Africa, Coalition members agreed to further harmonize efforts with other regional initiatives and endorsed the implementation strategy for the Coalition's Africa Focus Group action plan that intends to enhance African member states' civilian-led counter-ISIS capabilities. The Small Group welcomed the participation of Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Kenya, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, and Togo to the session devoted to counterterrorism in Africa.

The Coalition intensified its focus on the threat posed by ISIS in the Central Asian region and underscored the need for members to increase engagement further with non-member Central Asian states to enhance respective border security and counterterrorism capacity in the region. The Small Group welcomed the active participation of Uzbekistan as an observer in Rome.

The Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS remains united and resolved in its determination to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS wherever it attempts to operate, and to hold ISIS terrorists accountable under criminal justice systems.

End Text.

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Announcement of Visa Restriction Policy to Promote Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank

US Department of State

Press Statement

Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

December 5, 2023

The United States has consistently opposed actions that undermine stability in the West Bank, including attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians, and Palestinian attacks against Israelis. We have underscored to the Israeli government the need to do more to hold accountable extremist settlers who have committed violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank. As President Biden has repeatedly said, those attacks are unacceptable. Last week in Israel, I made clear that the United States is ready to take action using our own authorities.

Today, the State Department is implementing a new visa restriction policy targeting individuals believed to have been involved in undermining peace, security, or stability in the West Bank, including through committing acts of violence or taking other actions that unduly restrict civilians' access to essential services and basic necessities. Immediate family members of such persons also may be subject to these restrictions.

We will continue to seek accountability for all acts of violence against civilians in the West Bank, regardless of the perpetrator or the victim. We also continue to engage with the Israeli leadership to make clear that Israel must take additional measures to protect Palestinian civilians from extremist attacks. We will also continue to engage the Palestinian Authority to make clear it must do more to curb Palestinian attacks against Israelis. Both Israel and the Palestinian Authority have the responsibility to uphold stability in the West Bank. Instability in the West Bank both harms the Israeli and Palestinian people and threatens Israel's national security interests. Those responsible for it must be held accountable.

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Designation of North Macedonia Public Official Kocho Angjushev for Significant Corruption

US Department of State

Press Statement

Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson

December 5, 2023

The United States is designating Kocho Angjushev, a former Deputy Prime Minister of North Macedonia, as generally ineligible for entry into the United States, due to his involvement in significant corruption. While serving as Deputy Prime Minister, Angjushev abused his official position to benefit his private business interests, undermining the confidence of North Macedonia's public in their government institutions and public processes.

Today's action demonstrates the United States stands with those in North Macedonia who seek accountability of corrupt public officials. This designation reaffirms the U.S. commitment to counter corruption, which harms the public interest, hampers countries' economic prosperity, and curtails the ability of governments to respond effectively to the needs of their people.

These public designations are made under Section 7031(c) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2023, as carried forward by the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024 (Div. A, P.L. 118-15). The Department is also designating Angjushev's wife, Elizabeta, and children, Angel and Ognen, as generally ineligible for entry into the United States.

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"Israel mustn't get away with its crimes"

Presidency Of The Republic Of Turkey

05.12.2023

Addressing the 44th Summit of the Gulf Cooperation Council, President Erdogan said: "The loss of lives of 17 thousand innocent Palestinians, most of them children and women, is a crime against humanity, a war crime. Israel mustn't get away with the crimes it has committed."

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made a speech at the 44th Summit of the Gulf Cooperation Council held in Doha, Qatar.

"TURKIYE'S TRADE VOLUME WITH GULF COUNTRIES REACHED 23 BILLION DOLLARS"

Noting that Turkiye's trade volume with Gulf countries increased by 13 fold in the past 20 years and reached 23 billion dollars as of last year, President Erdogan stated that the restarting of the negotiations for the Turkiye-Gulf Cooperation Council Free Trade Agreement and the immediate implementation of the Agreement will further increase the trade volume.

President Erdogan said: "Turkiye preserves its status as being a safe harbor for international investors. I would like to note that we stand ready to provide our brothers and sisters, who trust in the Turkish economy, with any support needed. We have achieved a very significant momentum with our brothers and sisters in the Gulf region in the area of defense industry. The latest incidents have proven how important and strategic our cooperation in this area is."

"OUR STANCE IN THE GAZA CRISIS HAS SET AN EXAMPLE"

Reminding that they have shown their solidarity with the Palestinian people through the Extraordinary Joint Summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Arab League held in Riyadh, President Erdogan stated: "Our common stance in the Gaza crisis has set an example in terms of addressing our problems as the regional countries. It is important that we follow up the decisions taken at the Summit. The Foreign Ministers Contact Group has held talks in several countries. They will continue their meetings. We appreciate Qatar's efforts for the brief temporary humanitarian pause and exchange of prisoners of war. Of course, we wanted this pause to turn into a lasting ceasefire, but it did not happen. The Israeli administration is jeopardizing the security and future of our entire region in order to extend its political life. The loss of lives of 17 thousand innocent Palestinians, most of them children and women, is a crime against humanity, a war crime. Israel mustn't get away with the crimes it has committed. We as Turkiye increasingly maintain our humanitarian aid to the region. We have thus far sent 12 planeloads and 2 civilian shiploads of aid supply to Al Arish. We have ensured the evacuation of the injured, first and foremost cancer patients and children, to Turkiye. Our priority is the immediate announcement of a lasting ceasefire and the ensuring of an uninterrupted flow of humanitarian aid."

"With the latest developments, the importance of the formation of an independent, sovereign Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with Al Quds as its capital, has once again been seen. To that end, we have announced that we, with the countries in the region, stand ready to assume any responsibility, including guarantorship. We should not allow the oppression in Gaza to turn into a regional war that will include Syria as well," President Erdogan stressed.

"NECESSARY CONDITIONS SHOULD BE CREATED FOR THE VOLUNTARILY AND SAFE RETURN OF SYRIANS"

Underscoring that the biggest obstacle before Syria finding stability is the separatist terrorist elements, PKK/PYD/YPG in particular, that threaten Syria's territorial integrity and unity, President Erdogan went on to say: "We expect all our brothers and sisters to be on the alert against these terrorist organizations efforts to legitimize themselves. We aim for a political resolution on the basis of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254 for the Syrian conflict. Also, the necessary conditions for the voluntarily and safe return of Syrians should be created. We call on all actors to cooperate to that end."

Following the Summit, President Erdogan met with leaders during a luncheon.

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Desperation intensifies in Gaza amid uncertainty of 'safe zones'

5 December 2023 - The situation for Gazans is "getting worse by the hour", the UN health agency WHO said on Tuesday, after some of the heaviest Israeli shelling in the enclave since Hamas militants massacred some 1,200 people in southern Israel and took around 240 hostages on 7 October.

Speaking from the southern city of Rafah, Dr. Rick Peeperkorn, World Health Organization (WHO) Representative on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, described further bloodshed after the resumption of Israeli bombing last Friday.

"The situation is getting worse by the hour," Dr. Peeperkorn told journalists in Geneva via video link. "I mean...there's intensified bombing going on all around and including here in the southern areas, Khan Younis and even in Rafah."

The WHO medic noted that in the last couple of days there had also been "a vastly increasing number" of internally displaced people travelling from the Middle area "and even now the southern areas", fearing for their lives.

Echoing those concerns, UN Children's Fund spokesperson James Elder cited international humanitarian law that obliges militaries to "take all feasible measures" to protect civilians. It was not acceptable to unilaterally declare that they should go to "so-called safe zones", he insisted, when these were in fact "sidewalks" or "half-built buildings" without water, shelter or sanitation.

"It's not a safe zone if it's only free from bombardment, as some zones have not been," Mr. Elder said.

Deadly toll

The humanitarian update came as the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, reported that between the afternoon of 3 December and the afternoon of 4 December at least 349 Palestinians were killed and 750 injured, according to the Ministry of Health (MoH) in Gaza.

Three Israeli soldiers were also killed, according to Israeli sources, OCHA said in its latest emergency update.

8 in 10 Gazans now homeless

According to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNWRA, nearly 1.9 million people - more than 85 per cent of the population in Gaza - have been displaced across the Strip since 7 October.

Almost 1.2 million internally displaced persons have found shelter in 156 UNRWA installations across all five governorates of the Gaza Strip, including the North and Gaza City, the UN agency said.

It also confirmed that at least 19 additional colleagues had been killed during airstrikes, bringing the total to 130 since 7 October. "We are also in danger as we walk," UNWRA said, quoting one of its counsellors, named only as Jehan. "Our lives are at a standstill...There is the smell of death here. But we're determined to live."

Aid lifeline

Health authorities in Gaza estimate that at least 15,523 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza in the latest escalation, with 70 per cent believed to be women and children. "Many more are missing, presumably under the rubble, waiting for rescue or recovery," UNRWA said.

Amid desperate shortages of all humanitarian supplies, OCHA reported that on Sunday, some 100 aid trucks reached the enclave, along with 69,000 litres of fuel. The same quantities reached Gaza on Saturday, the UN aid office said, noting that this was still "well below" the daily average of 170 trucks and 110,000 litres of fuel delivered during the pause in fighting from 24 and 30 November.

"It's too little, it's way too little," said WHO's Dr. Peeperkorn, who said that amid the "increasing disaster" of Gaza, more medicine, food, water and fuel were needed.

Describing Gaza's healthcare infrastructure as "crippled" with "hardly any functional health facility in the north" apart from Al-Ahli hospital which was inundated with multiple trauma cases and a lack of supplies, the WHO official expressed deep concern that the same desperate scenes could be repeated in the south.

Patients' plight

From a capacity of 3,500 beds before the 7 October escalation, the enclave now has only 1,500, he explained.

"If you look around, there's hardly any hospital there left (in the north). So, we've seen what happened in northern Gaza and of course we are deeply concerned that this cannot be - this should not be - a blueprint for the south."

The WHO official also confirmed that medical supplies had been moved from two warehouses from Khan Younis to Rafah on Sunday. This followed advice that the storage facilities were "in an area where the population was told to evacuate and would most likely become an area of active combat in the coming days", he explained.

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USS Normandy Arrives in Piraeus, Greece

US Navy

05 December 2023

From Ensign Mackenzie Culver, Carrier Strike Group 12

GREECE -- USS Normandy (CG 60), a part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG), arrived in Piraeus, Greece, for a regularly scheduled port visit December 3, 2023.

The port call to Piraeus demonstrates the strong camaraderie between the U.S. Navy and the Hellenic navy.

"Normandy's visit to Piraeus, Greece, follows an extended period at sea, providing a persistent presence in the Eastern Mediterranean," said Capt. Errol A. Robinson, commanding officer, USS Normandy. "Piraeus offers my officers and crew an opportunity to experience the great culture and rich history of this modern metropolis setting."

"I have always loved Greek mythology," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class Jaylon Titus, so sightseeing in Athens will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I'm most looking forward to visiting the Acropolis."

The last U.S. Navy vessel to visit Piraeus was the first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, on July 27, 2023.

The GRFCSG has spent a significant amount of its maiden deployment steaming with the Hellenic navy, with Normandy hosting Greek sailors from HS Elli aboard in late August.

Normandy is a part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG). The GRFCSG is comprised of Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 2, the Information Warfare Commander, and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60).

The ships of DESRON-2 within the GRFCSG are the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Ramage (DDG 61), USS McFaul (DDG 74), and USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116).

The squadrons of CVW-8 embarked aboard Gerald R. Ford are the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9, the "Spartans" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 70, the "Bear Aces" of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW 124), the "Ragin' Bulls" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 37, the "Blacklions" of (VFA-213), the "Golden Warriors" of (VFA-87), the "Tomcatters" of (VFA-31), the "Gray Wolves" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 142, and the "Rawhides" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40.

For over 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has forged strategic relationships with allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability.

Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations.

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CNO Franchetti Speaks at 2023 Reagan National Defense Forum

US Navy - Press Briefing

05 December 2023

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti spoke during a panel while at the Reagan National Defense Forum in Simi Valley, California on Dec. 2, 2023. The panel was "Laboratories of Learning," and focused on innovation and technological breakthroughs in the Department of Defense. Speakers included: Representative Ken Calvert, U.S. House of Representatives; James Taiclet, Chairmen, President, and CEO of Lockheed Martin Corporation; Gen. David Allvin, U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff; and the moderator, Jim Sciutto from CNN.

Jim Sciutto: Thanks so much, to everybody, for being here, and thanks so much to my panelists, an impressive group. And it's an honor to share the stage with you I look forward to the conversation. When I saw the topic, "laboratories of learning future of warfare" in a typical year, you might be talking about wargaming and, and plans in the Situation Room and studies at the Naval and Army War College. In the current world, we're living through laboratories of learning and warfare with the largest war in Europe since World War Two, of course, the war in the Middle East and well, possibility of a looming conflict in East Asia. So we're seeing these things the laboratory is alive today. It's playing out before our eyes in many ways, and I certainly look forward to hearing your views on how you're seeing that and what can be applied and how the US and the armed services and the defense industry and Congress can learn from that.

Keep in mind you can email, you can post questions, which later during the conversation I can take from my tablet, and I know I do always like to give you guys a chance to pipe in as well. So many impressive people here. So keep that in mind as we get closer to about 10 minutes to the end, I'll start looking at questions and bring you into the conversation. So first, if we can begin and I might I might lean on you Gen. Allvin. When you look at Ukraine, we're certainly seeing a whole host of advanced technologies play out there, as well as old school technologies. And as my as my military friends told me, we got a world war two like artillery war going on in the Middle East. We got a world war one like trench war at times. But we also have integration of UAVs there are a whole host of electronic warfare capabilities that we're seeing play out there was some success. There are unmanned vehicles at sea that have had success against Russia's Black fleet. But first from your perspective, what future technologies are we seeing play out here and which ones can the US military most learn from?

Gen. Allvin: Well, thank you very much and thanks for having me on the panel. And if I might take advantage of the fact that I have in mic now is to echo what our Secretary the Air Force said in the previous panel and acknowledge the tragic incident that happened and then when the CV-22 went down over in Japan. It's some tough times we have we are blessed and that we have Americans who are willing to come into our formation and take on those type of activities. And we're very proud of them, all of them. And we're very saddened by that situation. But thank you for joining me.

Jim Scuitto: I'm glad you said that because working in news when I see those accidents, which happen frequently because training can be life threatening as hell. It's a reminder that folks are putting their lives at risk every day even when we and the public isn't aware of.

Gen. David Allvin: To the specific question I think it's very interesting. I I always find myself pausing when I'm asked what are the lessons of Ukraine what what can be applied, because things are so contextual. And I think that's what we need to need to remember one of the first things is, you can imagine someone wearing a uniform of this color gets asked, "Well, obviously, the character warfare has changed to where air superiority doesn't matter anymore because they're fighting without." I would actually flip that on its head and say, that shows the value of being able to have air superiority because I wouldn't want to put ourselves into a conflict, such as we see in Ukraine right now. That's not the way we want to fight wars. And so, to me, the lesson is that we need to understand the context within which we need to continue to gain and maintain superiority, as technology advances into the future. And that's my number one lesson. I think when we look at what Ukraine has done with respect to their technologies or the experimentation, I think what's most impressive is the way that they've been able to rapidly scale their defense industrial base. Within that context to see, I'm sure there are some elements of that which make it a little bit easier when you're you've been invaded when your sovereign territory is threatened when you're being bombed when you're under attack. That certainly necessitates a lot of intervention. But I think the ability to take what we have and use it in an innovative way I think, is very important when they can when they have a sensor network now, that's based on applications on phones. So it seemed like it was antiquated the idea they require require people to tell you when the missiles are coming in, but I will tell you, we can we can watch the war on our iPhone right now as you see the availability of information, because the entire population is involved. They can scale mass very rapidly, and I think that's important. But we also need to understand the context in that taking it out of that geography out of that particular situation, bears with some risks, but the idea that one can use the technology that you have to do disruption, which is what I would say largely, it's sort of a disruptive battle now between each side, not necessarily decisive but disruptive. Now that's not necessarily less important. But I think the the ability for them to take the technologies that they have, rapidly scale ,and put it out into a disruptive situation, I think is is something that we need to be mindful of. We can't be brittle. As we develop our force of the future. We need to understand that those will happen. That war is a human thing. And the ability to leverage technology with human innovation is something we can never walk away from as we continue to develop more and more sophisticated systems.

Jim Scuitto: You speak about necessity as a driver of innovation. I spoke to a member of Congress recently, who had just been to Ukraine and said, Listen, what when you when your family is under threat, as as Ukrainian soldiers, men and women, have to live through every day, you end up right as you're trying to save your country and trying to save lives. And that's, that's a pretty good driver of that kind of innovation necessity. Admiral Franchetti, there has a story out yesterday about the status of the war in Ukraine and you know, these assessments better than me, but that Western intelligence assessments speak to if not a frozen conflict, they don't expect a lot of progress on the battlefield in the coming months. But but someone made a point to me as I was reporting out the story, saying, well don't forget the success Ukraine has had really neutralizing the Black Sea Fleet. I mean going back to the sinking of Moskva. But more recently pushing them back dozens of miles through a combination of long distance strikes, but also UUVs and attacks like that. I wonder if you could speak from a naval perspective, what kind of innovation you're seeing there, and what to the same point what kind of innovation can the US Navy learned from?

Adm. Lisa Franchetti: Well, thanks, Jim. And it has really been a good, amazing success story and what the Ukrainian Navy and Ukrainian forces at large have been able to do against the Russian fleet, and really pushing it back and in keeping it away. Do you remember early on in the war the they were really trying to press up against especially into Odessa. And, you know, certainly if that had happened, it really would have been a stranglehold on the Ukrainian economy that grain would not have been able to flow out. So I think, you know, as you look at the the innovative spirit, I think of the Ukrainian Navy it's been great to see so thinking innovatively, creatively. How can they use asymmetric technology to go after a much bigger adversary with a lot more capability? It's been a real success story. I think the other part of that is, it's a lot of empowerment of their Sailors at every level. You know, we certainly spent a lot of time working with Ukrainians over the years on developing a solid NCO, noncommissioned officer core. So again, I think that helps with the innovation because they're the ones that are going to operate the technology, use the technology and do this battlefield innovation, so many lessons that we can learn from that as well.

Jim Scuitto: I've been speaking to General Kelly for a book I've been finishing, and he was describing that about that Ukraine has warfighters that innovate, they have the ability to they're given the power to make those decisions very, very different from the way the Russian military or even the Chinese military is. Structure is very, very top down. Congressman Calvert, you control the purse strings on both on your committee but Congress does in terms of how much and where money is focused and spent and I know you work closely with the general with the admiral and others like them as well as Jim in the defense industry. But Congress as you know, doesn't have a great reputation for how it spends money. And sometimes not on the right weapons systems going back through the years. Are you confident today that Congress is spending money on the right things for the present and future?

Rep. Ken Calvert: Well, I can break that up into two categories. One, we're going to continue to have a lot of systems that have been developed back in the Reagan era that we're still utilizing today. And so that contributes to significant O&M costs just to continue to fly, say the B-1 or B-51 or B-52, excuse me, and older ships and the rest of it. But now we need to move toward newer technologies and field them rapidly. And that's why we've created new mechanisms, within the budget process to do exactly that. DIU is one part of that, APFIT. These are ways in order to just be honest to get around the traditional procurement process and get innovative technology fielded as rapidly as possible. One thing we've seen in Ukraine and we see in Israel is the utilization of loitering munitions, drones, and those aren't going to go away and matter of fact, they're going to get more technologically advanced, as we introduce artificial intelligence into these instruments of war which are very, very advanced and very productive from the perspective of those who are fighting the war. And so we're going to move in that direction cluster drones, the rest of it are going to be a big part of what we're going to be doing. Using commercial technologies going back in the old days, it was the government that had all the money to do the R&D. Well, that's those days are gone. And the private sector is spends much more dollars on R&D, than we do and there's technologies out there that have military application. So we should take advantage of that. And that's why we want to create the Office of Strategic Capital to leverage those dollars into acquisition and to scale and go to scale and find those innovators that are out there maybe in this room that can help us get to where we need to go.

Jim Scuitto: I want to come back to the admiral after I go to Jim, on that very topic because you and I discussed the Disruptive Capabilities Office as as kind of an incubator of exactly that kind of cooperation. Before I do, though, just uh, I do want to give Jim Taiclet a chance to talk about one, that cooperation right public private sector, but also the supply chain supply and military supply chain, which as you know, is an enormous focus because of deficiencies that have been exposed by the war, the war, certainly in Ukraine, we're seeing some coming out of the war in Israel, but also questions about how long the US could maintain in a conflict no one wants but but if there wouldn't be conflict over Taiwan, and again, I referenced this book, I've been writing a book about great power competition, but in every conversation I had, left, right, military, European, US, folks were bemoaning the status of the military supply chain, you know, the end of the Amazon model just in time. And I wonder, from your perspective, are those deficiencies being corrected and quickly enough? And then if you could speak a little bit to the cooperation with the defense with the government on these weapons systems.

Jim Taiclet: So Jim, between the COVID pandemic and the Ukraine crisis, it basically drives us to a whole new conception of what the industrial base needs to be, the defense industrial base, it can't be just five large aerospace companies with this with our suppliers it's that's an outmoded way of looking at the defense industrial base. So you get the Congressman Calvert's interest in accelerating technology insertion. We have to marshal all of US industry and allied industry eventually, to participate in the DIB if you will. And so how do we do that? First of all, I think we just got to be honest about the players. The players are the I call them the hyperscale defense innovators, and that's the Northrop Grumman, the Lockheed Martin and Boeing etc. But also we have hyperscale technology innovators that we need to bring into the tent and work with us and we're starting to do that. Thirdly, we need to get emerging defense innovators into the tent. It's hard for them to get there now for a lot of reasons. I know Congressman Calvert and others in Congress are trying to ease some of those barriers as they are in DOD. But we need to look at this as marshaling all of US industry as a service in National Defense. So that's the first lesson of the last couple of years. I think there's two really important ways to learn from the tech industry as they've been doing in the Ukraine crisis, and bring it into our defense industrial base. One is we develop telecom and technology networks like Internet of things, etc. in the commercial space, is you bring together the players, you bring together the customer base, so it would be the services you bring together OSD, you bring together those hyperscale technology defense innovators like us, and as well as the Microsofts and Verizons and others we're working with to be on a standards body that could create the frequency sets, the interfaces, the API's that everyone's going to use to create that next generation of all-domain operations, joint all-domain operations. The second thing we need is a faster procurement system for digital goods. So the acquisition system that we have today that the DIB serves as a long cycle, multi-year system of procurement, we need to have a parallel path for digital acquisition. That's much much faster. So the clock speed of digital acquisition software developments about 10 times faster than Newtonian development, like ships, airplanes, etc. We need to create that separate acquisition paths. So if we do those two things, I think we'll put into play some of the lessons that we're learning on the current situation.

Jim Scuitto: So, Adm. Franchetti, you and I had a chance to speak before and you told a great story about you know, under the umbrella of the Disruptive Capabilities Office, but also how you were, you know, you're you're learning and training this and experimenting in real time. Out at sea, right. And you describe one instance where you had a dozen different UAV technologies that were I don't want to say playing with, but you're experimenting with and in that operation can you explain, maybe share that story, but explain how that broader picture works and how you're changing the way you not just choose these technologies, but then also integrate them quickly and train up the forces to use them.

Adm. Lisa Franchetti: Sure, you know, I think, in the Navy, you know, about five or six years ago, we took a hard look at the interwar period where there was a lot of conversation about thinking about scenarios for the future, and we decided to go back and really reinvigorated our Wargaming, our fleet experimentation, our integrated battle problems, and figure out how do we actually look at what are the capabilities we need for the future. And then how are we going to go after them? So out of that was born an unmanned Task Force, which really gave us an opportunity to take some of these capability gaps that we have at sea, be able to talk about them with a variety of different industries, and then try to bring them together in a series of exercises and experimentation. So if you take our Task Force 59, which is operating out in the Middle East, as part of our 5th Fleet, they've been able to bring together over 60,000 hours of operations at sea, with about 30 different exercises and operations, and about 23 different platforms. Where the companies come out, they do experimentation, so there's a lot of water in the Middle East. We want to have maritime domain awareness. So we can have these unmanned platforms, network together through a mesh network, being able to fuse their picture into a single pane of glass, which gives you this big visibility. This is something that we know we need to do. This is in every theater that we have, so if you can use this technology to do that, you save time for the humans. The unmanned technology is scanning, they're going to come up with some kind of anomalous event. They're going to queue the operator that they need to send someone out there to go and look at it, and then the operator can make a decision about what to do. So again, this is just one of our many experiments that we're doing. I think the to your point, we really need to, because of the the pace of the change of technology, when we get the companies out there, they're working with our operators hand in hand, they can understand what we need to do, how we might need to modify that capability, and then eventually that will enable more rapid prototyping to get after the challenges that we really face.

Jim Scuitto: It was actually good because Dr. Karp brought this up this morning in the breakfast conversation, but just it's a strategic question, is it not to some degree in that you have a country like China with almost limited, limitless rather, man and woman power and two, you can't play man to man and that so you have to use technology to kind of level up, which is and it's interesting to see that at play already. Congressman, as we discussed that in the big picture, strategic terms, when you look at defense innovation in UAV space, in UUV space, in AI and I want to I want to have some more pointed questions on where AI is at play today. Who's winning now? Are you Dr. Mark was saying from a business perspective US business is winning in this space, for instance, versus Europe. How does the US measure up against China in these new technologies and then Russia to some degree?

Rep. Ken Calvert: I would say today that we are ahead and that in that realm, software development. I think Alex would agree that we're the best in the world on software development. And we need to capitalize on that. And that software development will lead to new kinds of system when I was talking about UAVs, we're also for the Navy. They're experimenting with these drone ships, which is force multiplication without having to build a significant platform which gives us some more flexibility. Same thing in the Air Force with the with the what we're calling the loyal partner whenever you need CCA the giving us the capability of for a lesser amount of money to give us more capability that can combine with a say with an F-35. And that's that's all software driven. That's all and that's something we're very good at. And so we should invest in that. Alex made the point that we only invest about 1% of our defense budget for that. That is a mistake. We got to look at that. That's why we should continue to fund DIU. We're proposing a billion dollar budget to DIU. We also want to give the combatant commanders flexibility, about $220 million divided amongst works to combat commanders to give them the ability to buy things that they believe they need. And a lot of that will be technology driven, quickly. To go because one thing we're gonna hear a lot about is the procurement processes is broken. And so we're trying to figure out ways that we can get beyond that and gets get the capability in the field as rapidly as possible.

Jim Scuitto: Do others agree that the US retains that advantage because this sort of conventional wisdom, the cocktail party wisdom, right is the obvious is falling behind China, quantum computing. They're just about to make a big leap. They're ahead of us AI they're ahead of us. You know, they're thinking in 5, 10 year terms and where's caught up in congressional turf battles? I wonder do others?

Gen. David Allvin: I'll take a stab at that. And I think I think it's the challenge is trying to understand the arc. The pace of how we are I mean, we've worked to look right now, one to one you could do some sort of a net assessment about where we are I think, as we look at the arc of things, in that the fact that you know, the PRC, they are accelerating in the amount of innovation in the amount of things that they are fielding, so that's that's fact. And as we look at so from the United States Air Force perspective, we are having that, you know, that perennial challenge of trying to get to the future as fast as we can, understanding that we're limiting resources between the future and today. And so I think in order to, to try and target how we stay ahead, is to focus where we're going to have our innovation because when you look at it with the technology, all the technology out there, it's it's it's a buffet, and it can be overwhelming at times because there's so much tasty stuff out there, but you can really hone in on it when you understand the nature of the threat. What what warfighting concept do you believe you want to leverage to get the greatest advantage? And so if we look back 40 years, I suppose was the last time when we were in a great power competition. When we did one of these types of shifts. And I would say that was arguably the air land battle. And that was the sort of different way that we were contemplating and developing our tactics, techniques and capabilities to fight the Soviets and the Fulda Gap. At the same time, there were technological advances and things like stealth and precision. And so those came together in a manner that we're able to field those and stay ahead. I should also mention that at the same time, we had the additional advantage of having the highest defense budget as a ratio of GDP, as we've had, it's about twice what it is now. So we had that.

Jim Scuitto: Was any American president involved in that decision?

Gen. David Allvin: So when you think about that, that is bridging the transition bit from from old to new. Now we find ourselves in a situation where that ramp appears to be steeper, as the as the threats evolving faster. And so we need to focus where we might want to deliver it, to develop the innovation, the technology to deliver in capabilities, which is why these collaborative combat aircraft are part of our future going forward. But I think if we were to look at the last that last time we're doing air land battle, that technological advancement was, as I said, it was more along the lines of stealth and precision. I would say now if you had to narrow it down to a word or two, it would probably just be speed. It's about speed of recognition, decision and action. You can't do that with the sort of platforms we have, which is why we're developing through our individual services and collectively, they're doing all their main command and control this ability to be able to move data faster and make decisions, decision ready information available to decision makers faster. We'll talk about collaborative combat aircraft, we have to have affordable mass as well. Munitions are not getting less expensive if you want them to be precise. So the ability to leverage autonomy and machine learning, and those sort of algorithms to put collaborative munitions to where now you can get the most out of a single munition. Now, you have a more cost effective force that can serve as more targets because the pace of the fight is going to be about speed. So leveraging those particular technologies and sort of driving different vectors of innovation that are really centered on a joint warfighting concept which we have, I think is a path forward to stay ahead.

Jim Scuitto: Anytime I read the wargaming for instance, again of conflict no one wants the US China conflict over Taiwan is just how swift it is. And also sadly how swift the casualties and the losses would be in any conflict like that. Jim is a private sector view do you in terms of where where the superpowers the great power stand in this competition?

Jim Taiclet: Well, the US is clearly ahead and software development. A lot of that software development is happening in the commercial sector. So again, we have to bring them in. Now, the most immediate and important opportunity in the near term to do this is matching targets, tracks and weapons in a way that the commander can act the fastest with the best information and make the best decision. If you want to know the best use of AI right now and national defense, it's that. And so what we're working on with some of our industry partners as well, large and small in INDOPACOM is a joint fires network, that will have the ability to sense from space, from aircraft, from ships, and other sensors, all of the targets that are at play. It merges that data on the targeting with an AI, in an AI engine that brings together all the weapons that INDOPACOM has its disposal, doesn't matter if they're Air Force, Army, Marines, etc. And it gives the commander options, as you said General, about what does the AI machine think is a good choice for me and stack ranks them. The commander then makes decisions to match those targets with weapons for maximum effectiveness. And you're using a lot of digital technology and a lot of artificial intelligence to process this way, way faster in minutes that would take maybe hours to do today.

Gen. David Allvin: If I may add on to that. So that sounds interesting enough, to have that the inventory of but the next level challenge is not just knowing what weapons you have, where are they? Where are they, what's the readiness of the platforms that are going to launch, those are happening. Those are changing minute by minute. So, what might be a good decision now in 10 minutes might not be the right decision might not be the targeting solution. You might go to another platform that exists in another domain. But having that information at your fingertips to make that right decision at the time. That could that could be a difference.

Adm. Lisa Franchetti: I will say is taking a step back and looking more broadly to your your question. I mean, it's a warfighting ecosystem. And you know when you look at our joint force and all the capabilities we have, you know, if you think about marrying up our conventionally manned platforms, you know, with very disruptive technologies, which is why we're standing up this Disruptive Capabilities Office to try to bring those in and field them faster for the warfighter, and then a mix of, of uncrewed vessels with a little bit more capability and lethality. That's that ecosystem connected by a network that is going to continue to maintain our advantage against the PRC.

Jim Scuitto: I was literally just gonna ask you about that because the reason I was is because oftentimes in this both the US China or US Russia, competition or in budgeting decisions and so on that there's a focus on the numbers right? A 350-ship Navy, and we can't fall behind China's plans for the size of its navy, but you made the point to me the ecosystem is more important than the raw numbers. Has that fed in? I mean, is that is that now accepted gospel in terms of the way these decisions are made, or the kinds of requests you make as CNO? Ecosystem more important than whether I have you know, 37 destroyers.

Adm. Lisa Franchetti: I think it's really important to understand how all of our platforms are going to be used and integrated together. Certainly capacity has its own quality, which is important. But again, it's all about how they're networked, and how we can leverage both the forces and the services all across the joint force, but also with allies and partners. So I think that's all the multivariable equation that you have to put together when you're thinking about and developing concepts that we want to experiment on to determine what those best investments are.

Rep. Ken Calvert: And I just want to point out, quantity does matter. The Chinese are up close to 400 ships right now. We're what, Admiral, about 290 or so. So that's one of the reasons why these uncrewed vessels, whatever you want to call them, because they're a lot less money and it is a budget problem, but it does give us more flexibility. But we still need to build more ships, we are woefully behind. And we have an industrial base problem. We have a supply chain problem. We have a labor problem, to get to where we need to go, and certainly in the submarine program. We're not where we need to be. So we have a lot of challenges ahead of us, and a lot of it is money.

Jim Scuitto: So, is it happening to you look for instance, if the AUKUS agreement right, you know, the promises made about ramping up sub construction just doesn't seem to my knowledge that they're being met yet.

Rep. Ken Calvert, chair, house appropriations defense subcommittee

Well, we need to execute that as rapidly as possible. Australia obviously wants to be our partner. We desperately need partners, Japan wants to be our partner. We need to take advantage of all of that. Obviously, UK and we have a special relationship but that helps us because it's more economical to have partners that contribute to our common security and to the world security and that's something we have to take advantage of.

Adm. Lisa Franchetti: I think AUKUS also you know, it's also in the submarine is very critical and that piece of that and we're eyes wide open about that a lot of work to do but I'm confident partnering with industry and and the Congress and everyone that we're going to get where we need to go. I think the other really great part though, is the second pillar, you know, that doesn't necessarily get as much play all the time, but there are a lot of innovative technologies that we're trying to work on and develop and field rapidly with Australia and the UK, and again, we have bringing together industry the best minds from all three nations. I think this is gonna be a game changer for us.

Jim Scuitto: Which which innovative technologies?

Adm. Lisa Franchetti: Especially autonomy. I mean, we're just out of DIU yesterday, with Doug Beck, talking and showing the the leaders of the three countries all these different things that we're going to be able to do together.

Jim Taiclet, chairman:

That's a great example, Australia, Five Eyes country, fully trusted. We and they are together, working towards having a new guided-missile enterprise production facility in Australia, which would reduce the fragility of our own industrial base by having that location in place. It's still hard to do from a regulatory export control perspective, even with Australia, even with something we know we need. And then we can produce in a different place with qualified people. So there are a lot of regulatory barriers. We should be knocking those down.

Jim Scuitto: I'm glad you brought up Doug Beck because he and I went to college together and I did well I did want to get his name into the conversation somehow. There it is. It's done. Alright, I've done I've done my job. On AI, and listen, there won't be a conversation today that AI is not part of the current part of the conversation. We heard it this morning and there was one prior to this that was expressly about AI. But it certainly factors into our discussion here. And essentially, whenever I speak to folks in any military or Intel capacity, I was speaking to one of the UK Intel chiefs recently. And they will say it's already here, right? This is not some distant prospect. It's already here. The Intel folks it's interesting. It's not dissimilar from the way for instance, Palantir was discussing it or you discuss it, you know, they'll say listen in an intelligence gathering, they, China, have an enormous manpower advantage and we can't compete. So we use AI to kind of as a force multiplier, it seems to be a consistent thing. But in terms of what is happening today in a way that folks understand, where for instance, General, is AI already integrated into your operations, decision making, weapons systems?

Gen. David Allvin: Well, it actually is interesting in the ISR enterprise As that we're leveraging algorithms and starting with data fusion and being able to gain insights to where I'll go back to where I think the changing character works, privileging speed. If we're going to do things with speed, and have access to massive amounts of data, the ability to have algorithms that develop the tools, whether it be the neural networks that help support those analysts do what only the humans can do, which is make that human decision. That's here right now as well. And I hate to keep repeating what Secretary Kendall said in the previous panel, but it was on AI, and I think it's it's informative here, in that as we are developing these collaborative combat aircraft, which are going to be integral into our force design.

Jim Scuitto: How soon?

Gen. David Allvin: Well, and I'm only repeating my Secretary, by the end of this FYDP and you should see aircraft, uncrewed aircraft, and the integration. We can no longer do things serially though so at the same time, as we work we are put into the '24 budget and beyond the money for the platform. We also separately have stood up an experimental operations unit because you can't just buy the weapon system then after it's done, you field it, and you sort it out later. At the same time, we are partnering with others on an experimental operations unit to figure out how to actually employment that. Because when we think about it, it's it's different. If you don't have to fly it, would you maintain it differently? There are all sorts of things that are that are implied, the advantages of having uncrewed systems, paired with crewed systems. But the third part to the point about AI is we are actually have a test program now that we are reinvigorating on the autonomy itself. It's called Project Venom, and it's being it's designed to understand what the AI can do. So as we're going to have these inevitable policy decisions about what should we let AI do, what is the legal, ethical, etc. We should at least have some framework about what we think it can do, and the advantages of it so we can make some better decisions on that. And so we are leaning headlong into it for the future. But there are also elements that technology exists today. That just makes us do things faster and more for efficient.

Jim Scuitto: Admiral and Jim, I want to ask where you see it where you are, but before I just just because General brought up the question of regulation and limitation how do we manage? How do we keep the humans involved? Right? Is Congress on top of that? Are you having discussions at the committee level to write laws that can keep up with the technology?

Rep. Ken Calvert: That's a great question. The problem is that you know, the technology really has been developed in the private sector. And by foreign players, China's not going to slow down the development of artificial intelligence. Our adversaries are going to move ahead as rapidly as they possibly can. So we ought to make sure that we don't have unintended consequences. I think that the industry recognizes that, but at the same time, that horse is out of the barn, and we are developing artificial intelligence for various things, as we sit here. And it's moving very rapidly. But we need to do everything we possibly can to make sure that we don't have the unintended consequences that many people in industry and others have brought up.

Jim Taiclet: And given the horse is out of the barn in reality here, to try to regulate AI in the traditional sense isn't possible or feasible or wise, probably. But having framework and standards around how AI is developed and then employed is feasible. The Department of Defense already has a set of principles around that. We just adopted those internally in our company, but we have every program that has an AI component of it, which is now most of them has to go through an AI ethics committee review to make sure that the source data is appropriate to make sure that the outcomes are auditable and untestable, so you don't have this machine running wild and the outcome you can't predict. So there are principles of ways to do this. And when it comes to crewed, uncrewed teaming or combat collaborative aircraft, I and many others in this room have been Air Force or Navy or Marine pilots in the past, and you're pretty busy in the cockpit, right? So AI will enable you to have the wingman intelligence that you would have in a human, ultimately, in your own aircraft. And that's where we need to go. But the first stage of that will be with a collaborative combat aircraft. So let's say there's two per jet, two per F-35, for example. Well you get a radar warning signal in your ear, which means you've got a missile locked on your jet. You've got these two wingmen. What the AI initially will be able to do is put on your cockpit screen four choices in order of what again, the AI thinks that the best decisions for you. You click on one and that one decision might be drone two goes behind you and takes the missile or drone one turns on its EW in a certain way that diverts the missile. But we have to be able to keep the human involved in the decision making and just make that decision maker as you said, General, faster and more accurate. And that will be the value of AI that's how you can use it.

Jim Scuitto: Because I was gonna ask what the interface was. Is it a voice in your ear like the movie Her or is it is it so you're saying it's a drop down menu is that?

Jim Taiclet: That will probably be the first iteration of this. But eventually you'll want the drone to be able to act like a human and that's another couple of generations out there. That's general intelligence AI, and that's another step in the future. But you can give human pilots choices outside their own aircraft that they're hand controlling.

Jim Scuitto, : Until that drone is like I'm not gonna take that missile for you. I'm gonna, I want to make it home today.

Jim Taiclet: Controllability is one of the standards, by the way, that you can control the behavior.

Jim Scuitto: I'm sure that screenplay has already been written.

Jim Taiclet: Yeah, definitely.

Jim Scuitto: So first of all, where is AI already in your space and are you, the Navy, does it have standards in place already that it follows? Is developing them and constantly updating them as the technology changes?

Adm. Lisa Franchetti: Well, I think we're in the same boat as everyone else is this technology is developing. It's a it's an iterative and a learning process as we go along. I think you know, as we talked about earlier, and as you just mentioned, it's really about how do you free up, you know, the human from some of those more mundane tasks that it can AI can process it can provide them fused information. So the person can be the one, you know, using that cognitive power to make the decisions that they need to do and again, that will speed up everything we're able to do.

Jim Scuitto: Sorry, it sounds like you wanted to pipe in there too.

Gen. David Allvin: I totally agree, but it's not only the mundane, but it's also there are things that, humans fatigue, and it might be might be mundane, but it's also more precise.

Jim Scuitto: I promised at around 10 minutes and even a little earlier, I'm going to go to some audience questions because they've been coming in and this is one brought up only very briefly before and that is quantum computing. The question or ask the next phase of disruptive technology will include quantum computing, which is being developed by China as its disruptive technological strategies. How do you see quantum computing fit into pioneering warfare? I'll allow a volunteer to jump in on that.

Rep. Ken Calvert: Well, I suspect that China is trying to develop their own quantum technologies and others are doing the same. I can't get into it too much, but it it obviously is extremely important that does change the landscape, the first country that comes to quantum computing, there's going to have a significant advantage. So without saying a lot. I think that we're doing what we need to do to try to get there and other countries are and also so hopefully we're ahead of that and that we will prevail.

Jim Taiclet: There's an obvious use case in encryption and breaking encryption. But there are other others as well, which are more tangible I'll say. So when it comes to hypersonic defense, a hypersonic missile is a maneuverable-ballistic missile that makes it extremely difficult to defend against. But if you have quantum computing, and you have the right sensors, and you have the right network connection at the broadband speeds you need, you could actually calculate the likely path of a hypersonic missile and its end game and defeat it. Without quantum computing, it may be a very difficult thing to do. So there are real world situations where quantum will be important.

Jim Scuitto: Just, you bring up hypersonic missiles and I thought occurred to me and maybe this is question for you, General, that there had been some thinking that you know, Russia has at least claimed to make progress there and they've deployed some. Seem to have used some in Ukraine. But I believe I've heard that that Ukrainian air defenses have responded better to those than expected. Is that less of a threat that because, again, we all certainly in the media as well. You focus on a threat at a time and there will be a great fear focused on that threat for a time and then sometimes it'll pass away and that was one we're in the early stages of the war. Where does that stand in terms of competition now?

Gen. David Allvin,: I think when the first one was launched, there was sort of a little quiet cheer when it was saying we were able to respond to it, that the French were able to respond to it. However, I think one can't extract too much from that because was it was an immature technology? Was a poor execution? The fact remains that technology continues to advance and just the speed maneuverability, puts more complexity on the battle space. So, we sometimes we jokingly say hypersonics is the technology of the future and always will be. I think that that those days have passed. And I think we're to the point now where there's the fielding and it becomes more and more of a challenge and we're gonna see the complexity of the battle space. So I I actually would, wouldn't take too much from that other than to say it could have been worse.

Jim Scuitto: Congressman, I gotta send this what your way because it relates to Congress. Modernization requires money. A budget and authorization services may want to move with speed, but right now Congress is slowing things down. How risky is that? I'll leave that there because I've got a follow up for you.

Rep. Ken Calvert: But the reality is 30 years ago, our mandatory spending problem isn't what it is today. It is now taking up 70% of all outlays and 30 years ago, 70% of our spending was discretionary. And so it's eating up all the discretionary budgeting process. So that's why we have to economize as much as we have. Defense spending, as a percentage of GDP has continued to decline to the now to the lowest level it has been since the post World War II. And so the challenge that we have is in a situation where we have a 32 trillion dollar debt. You all know the numbers. Ongoing mandatory spending problem is how do we maintain a strong national defense and pay for it? And that's the mathematics that we have to go through. That's why we need as a country to come to a budget agreement on mandatory spending at some point and get control over that. To slow down the rate of increase, come to an agreement on that. For we don't end up destroying our national defense budget and all the other budgets that are in the discretionary side of the ledger. So it's a big challenge and time is not on our side.

Jim Scuitto: Do the services look to Congress with concern as a result of that problematic budgetary process? If we can call it that.

Gen. David Allvin: We go through the same angst, year over year, and I think as we look at what can we do as a service, what can we do I you know, I'm sure same same for Lisa and all the other services but understanding that that is out of our true control other than to show the facts, show the data and show you the value proposition of what we're seeking the resources for. And I will say as an aside to that with that is a box within which we need to work. You know, Congressman Calvert said at the very beginning that the fact that we get many old Reagan-era things that we're still flying, what we need to do is make the case for how and why we will mitigate the risk of the old being gone before the new comes on. And I think that that's a challenge we need to continue to show. And one of the ways that we do that, which is a conversation that could go on for well beyond the time is the innovation that exists within our airmen, across the board. Where they are helping us understand ways that we can take the the equipment that we have now, that was not built for this environment, and start to adapt it because they're the ones on that equipment and knowing how you can make it more adaptable to the environment within which we think we're going to need it. That helps buy down the risk, while we're trying to get the resources. But it still is it's a pretty wicked problem right now and I haven't been in the budget process my whole career but this is this is challenging as we've seen and given the threat.

Jim Scuitto: That raises an issue question, Admiral, perhaps it's to you. Do you recruit a different kind of person for this kind of environment? Do you look for different qualities? I mean, obviously there are different jobs, different MOS is across the board. But But moving fast. I'm sure, engineers, mathematicians, and computer programmers are, at it certainly for the private sector as well, are at a premium.

Adm. Lisa Franchetti: I think that's a great question and that is something I know we're definitely looking at and we've just recently finished one of our futures wargames. And you know, if you think about the future in 20 years, the people that are in the Navy now are going to be fighting whatever happens and 20 years from now, and so what are those people need to look like as we're bringing more people in and we recruit across that whole broad fabric of America? I think it's really important to think hard about do we need new ratings, do we need a robotics rating? You know, what are the kind of skill sets that we need to be developing? So we have those people that are comfortable operating, you mentioned, you know, the trust that would have to happen between you know, the pilot with an unmanned or uncrewed air wing with him. I think this is really important to think about people that will be able to adapt that new technology and have that innovative creative spirit going forward.

Gen. David Allvin: I would agree with that. I think when we talk about the airmen in our case that we need into the future, that goes hand in hand with the force design, if you're going to have a force as part of its design, in which you are going to leverage the fact that you may learn something on one sortie that you want to apply to the next sortie, to inject that particular software into a capability. You might want to have software coders out at the tactical edge. We didn't think about that before. So understanding the human capital that we're going to need and I think STEM is a big part of that. But I will tell you Jim, right now, just unleashing the innovative spirit of our Airmen. We have 103 of these things called spark cells across that we that we give them the voice and give them a very small bit of resources but actually the empowerment to come up with solutions on how we can make the things that we have today work better in the environment is paid tomorrow. It is amazing. And that's a positive.

Jim Scuitto: Can you find those people in the private sector you as you're looking to innovate?

Jim Taiclet: We've been pretty successful because the technologies we work on are pretty advanced, and are attractive. We also recruit from a wide range of colleges and universities, all the way to high schools and do apprenticeships. So we've had 4% attrition I think over last year, which is less than half any industry average. So I think our industry is healthy. When it comes to manpower and womanpower. But we need to keep advancing on those really difficult skill sets like AI data scientists and things like that. That is another really compelling reason to partner with the tech industry because they can pay the rates that data scientists deserves these days. And if I can get them on my team, I just give you one quick example we have a team with Intel, Microsoft, Verizon, IBM, and NVIDIA working on the application of digital technology into mission sets that we've defined with the services where the gaps are, and we're getting access to some of their very best people and their very best technology. And I was joking about with CNO a little bit earlier. One of the CEOs of the tech company said we like working with you because your problems are easier than ours. And I asked him, What do you mean he goes, I've got to figure out how to do a network that will control 100 million autonomous land vehicles someday, and you're just trying to keep an airplane and two drones together. So let's work on that first. And they are going to learn with us and that's why they're investing with us to do this.

Jim Scuitto: Because we only have well we have less than three minutes. I thought just since this is a tech focused new technology focused conversation. We'll just run down the line. What what is the new weapon system you're most excited about? Or perhaps most fearful of today?

Gen. David Allvin: Ours is easy. Mine is easy. It's the clever combat aircraft because I do believe the future is going to be about human machine teaming, getting that human machine teaming, optimizing the performance and being able to operate at speed. And we think that investment in our collaborative combat aircraft program is going to be what's going to get us there.

Jim Scuitto: Congressman?

Rep. Ken Calvert: It may be some technology that we're not even aware of yet. That we're coming up. Two years ago if we were sitting here today, who would have thought that the drone technology had gone as far as it has as of today. And we weren't even talking about a loyal wingman or crewless planes just a few years ago and same thing we ships. So we need to stay on top of that innovation and accept that innovation. We've become risk averse in the military I think and that has to change. And the culture has to change in order to accept these new technologies that we're not aware of today and and to make sure that ones we are aware of as we put in the battlefield as soon as possible.

Jim Scuitto: The pace is just incredible. Admiral?

Adm. Lisa Franchetti: And certainly, you know excited about all the new capabilities we have coming down in our manned platforms. But as we stand up this Disruptive Capabilities Office, that's where I'm really excited about finding some of these great partnerships we can have with industry, with people that can bring new ideas on how to close some of these gaps and use some of the initiatives with replicator or other things with DIU to get some of these things in competition, get them tested out and then get them out to our warfighters as soon as possible. That's what I'm excited about.

Jim Taiclet: The biggest opportunity, scariest threat, offensive and defensive cyber.

Jim Scuitto: And that's a whole that's a whole conversation in its own. I didn't get to ask all my UAP questions, which is what I think really would have gotten the conversation going, talk privately with you exactly who will but there'll be a pull aside later. Thanks so much. CEO, Admiral, Congressman, General, to all of you. Thanks so much. Thank you.

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Afghan Insurgent Groups Step Up Attacks, Political Campaign Against Taliban

By Akmal Dawi December 05, 2023

Two Afghan insurgent groups, made up mainly of former government and military officials, claim to have killed at least 50 Taliban officials and soldiers during November.

The hit-and-run insurgency has been most active in the north and northeast of the country where the Taliban encountered significant resistance during their previous rule from 1996 to 2001.

In brief statements in Dari and English posted on X, the Afghanistan Freedom Front and the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan claimed their fighters regularly target members of the Taliban at checkpoints, military bases and even on highways.

So far, the Taliban have played down the armed insurgency, saying peace and tranquility have been fully restored throughout the country.

The Afghan media have suffered major setbacks under the Taliban regime, making it difficult to access accurate information and to verify claims made by the insurgent groups.

"At this stage, there is little reason to suppose that these insurgent groups pose a significant threat to overall Taliban rule," said Robert Grenier, former head of counterterrorism at the Central Intelligence Agency who also worked with anti-Taliban groups before 2001.

"As someone who was actively involved in trying to organize and motivate anti-Taliban groups and commanders  of which there were many  in the period just prior to 9/11, I can attest to the difficulty in organizing any sort of effective insurgency against Taliban rule. One of the reasons for this is the demonstrated brutality of the Taliban in dealing with perceived enemies," Grenier told VOA via email.

The United Nations and human rights groups accuse the Taliban of extrajudicial killings, detentions, torture and disappearances of individuals suspected of supporting anti-Taliban groups.

Since their inception in 1994, the Taliban have used brutal force to suppress armed opposition to their rule, but it is unclear how many insurgent fighters they have killed since reclaiming power more than two years ago.

The insurgents lack enough forces to topple the Taliban, at least in the near future, but they appear to be creating political and governance challenges for the Islamist regime.

Political havens

Fighting the Taliban has become a contentious issue among former Afghan officials even while political opposition to the Taliban's monopoly on power and their extremist policies has grown stronger.

Two former Afghan presidents, Ashraf Ghani and Hamid Karzai, who separately led Afghanistan in its post-Taliban years, have opposed the toppling of the Taliban through war, advocating instead for a political settlement that would create an inclusive government.

While the Taliban regime is globally ostracized and condemned for its misogynistic policies, no country has so far offered support for a war against the Taliban.

Despite fighting the Taliban for 20 years and imposing terrorism sanctions on their leaders, the United States has refrained from supporting anti-Taliban insurgents.

In October, the British government announced it was strongly discouraging groups and individuals seeking political change in Afghanistan through armed violence.

"Any effective insurgency against the Taliban would rely on foreign support and the availability of a safe haven outside the country," Grenier said, adding that the Taliban used safe havens in Pakistan for two decades while fighting Afghan and U.S. forces in Afghanistan.

While not supporting any warring party in Afghanistan, many countries have hosted the leaders of the anti-Taliban insurgent groups and other Afghan politicians who oppose the Taliban rule.

Recently, some former Afghan military officials who advocate for military and political campaigns against the Taliban opened the office of Afghanistan's United Front in the United States, raising the former Afghan flag on their office building.

"We need a little bit of help from your side," Sami Sadat, a former Afghan general and a leader of the United Front, told a U.S. House hearing last month. "We are ready to partner again, we are ready for the great sacrifice."

Taliban officials have publicly voiced frustration to countries hosting their opponents while most Taliban leaders are unable to travel because of United Nations sanctions.

Terrorism concerns

Islamic State Khorasan (IS-K), an affiliate of the Islamic State extremist group, reportedly poses the most potent threat to Taliban rule. In addition to targeting members of the Taliban, the group has perpetrated some of the deadliest attacks against religious minorities in Afghanistan.

"IS-K proved to be a resilient organization, attempting to plot attacks overseas and with bases of support in northern and eastern Afghanistan becoming more clandestine," Asfandyar Mir, an expert with the U.S. Institute of Peace, told VOA.

As the number of groups fighting the Taliban goes up, some experts warn about the possibility of yet another cycle of civil war in Afghanistan with potential terrorist threats to regional and global security.

Grenier, the former CIA official, said a resurgent IS-K in Afghanistan would pose greater security threats to regional governments than to the United States and its allies.

"We should remember that active IS operations in Western Europe were the result of active military operations by Western governments against them in Iraq and Syria, rather than on a desire to attack the West per se. Unlike al-Qa'ida, IS has always been far more focused on attacking regimes within the Islamic world, rather than on their perceived Western supporters," he said via email.

The United States government has evacuated and resettled thousands of members of the former Afghan forces, some of whom are seeking any kind of backing from the U.S. or its allies to intensify the war against the Taliban.

"Absent attacks on U.S. interests clearly emanating from Afghanistan, the U.S. will remain neutral," Grenier said.

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Pakistan Official: US Did Not Oppose Deportation of Afghans in Country Illegally

By Ayaz Gul December 05, 2023

Pakistani officials said Tuesday that the United States did not object to Islamabad's deportation of Afghan nationals who are illegally residing in the country but requested the process be slowed down during winter.

The crackdown on undocumented foreigners, including 1.7 million Afghans, came under discussion at a meeting with a visiting U.S. delegation led by Julieta Valls Noyes, the U.S. assistant secretary of state for the Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration.

A Pakistani official privy to the talks said that the U.S. side sought to prevent the deportation of around 25,000 "vulnerable" individuals who fled the Taliban's August 2021 takeover in neighboring Afghanistan and could be eligible for relocation to or resettlement in the United States.

"The government of Pakistan doesn't want to deport any vulnerable Afghan, irrespective of whether someone appears on the U.S. prospective resettlement list or any other country," the official told VOA on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to share details of the talks publicly.

"Pakistan is concerned over the lengthy resettlement process the U.S. has adopted," he said. "One thing is clear: The U.S. didn't oppose Pakistan's deportation policy. It, however, pleaded for going slow during the harsh winters," the Pakistani official told VOA.

VOA reached out to the State Department to seek a response to Pakistani assertions that Washington is not opposed to the deportations of Afghans but did not get a response immediately.

Neither Pakistani nor U.S. officials formally released details of the meeting Noyes held with Asif Durrani, Pakistan's special representative on Afghanistan.

"Good to visit Pakistani Foreign Ministry and see Special Representative for Afghanistan @AsifDurrani20 again today for discussion on Afghan refugees, protection, and resettlement," Noyes said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Durrani also shared a few details about his talks with the U.S. delegation on his X social media platform. "We discussed issues concerning Afghan refugees and their resettlement," he said.

A pre-visit U.S. State Department statement said that during her four-day visit, Noyes would meet with government officials and nongovernmental and international organization partners to "discuss shared efforts to protect vulnerable individuals and accelerate safe, efficient relocation and resettlement of Afghan refugees in the U.S. immigration pipelines."

Official data shows that Pakistan's deportation drive has forced more than 400,000 people to return to Afghanistan since mid-September.

The United Nations and global human rights groups have criticized the crackdown and urged Islamabad to urgently halt it, noting that Afghanistan suffers from a dire humanitarian crisis stemming from years of war and natural disasters.

Pakistani authorities defend the deportation drive, linking a recent surge in deadly, nationwide terrorist attacks to the undocumented Afghan population.

In a separate statement on X, Noyes said she held an "important conversation" with representatives of the U.N. refugee agency in Islamabad and discussed "our shared commitment to support vulnerable Afghans in Pakistan."

American and NATO troops withdrew from Afghanistan in August 2021 when the then-insurgent Taliban seized power from a Washington-backed government in Kabul. They also evacuated tens of thousands of Afghans who worked with the international military mission during its two-decades-long presence in the country, fearing they would face Taliban reprisals.

Pakistan's otherwise close relations with the Taliban government have come under severe strain over the deportation drive.

De facto Afghan authorities have denounced the policy as unjust and inhumane, saying it has ended the goodwill the neighboring country earned for hosting millions of refugees from conflict-torn Afghanistan over the past four decades.

The Pakistani government says the country still hosts more than 2.2 million documented Afghans, including 1.4 million legal refugees. They are not the subjects of the ongoing crackdown.

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Micronesia's Former President Seeks Renewal of US Aid Agreement

By Jessica Stone December 05, 2023

David Panuelo, former president of the Federated States of Micronesia or FSM, has been in Washington lobbying lawmakers to approve legislation that he says Micronesia needs to counter Beijing's political and economic pressure across the region.

Panuelo spoke with VOA last week about what is at stake if Congress does not fund the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2023. The bill updates the agreement governing the relationships between the United States and the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Republic of Palau and the FSM.

House Republicans want $2.3 billion in spending offsets to pay for the $7.1 billion in aid for the region where the U.S. and China are competing for influence and military access to strategic areas of the Pacific Ocean. As of now, there is no agreement on the offsets.

Panuelo, who once supported a stronger relationship with China, left office on March 9 with a warning in letters to his successor, Wesley Simina, about the dangers of Beijing's influence campaign. The letters later became public. He also alleged that China had bribed Micronesian elected representatives, which China called "smears."

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

VOA: In 2021, you referred to the Chinese Communist Party as "our very dear Chinese friends." Why?

David Panuelo, former president of the Federated States of Micronesia: Our foreign policy is, "Friend to all, and enemy to none."

VOA: What changed your thinking on China's presence in Micronesia?

Panuelo: It was the culmination of events that brought me to the point of putting it [in letters].

My third letter prompted Chinese agents to come to our nation to meet some of our leaders, including a governor who later came to me to disclose that they went to him to [ask me to] go against my letter [warning Pacific Island leaders about negative Chinese influence]. You can see that this activity alone is very serious  how they can interfere in our internal political affairs.

There is, for example, the envelopes that our vice president disclosed he was given.

VOA: Envelopes?

Panuelo: [Envelopes] with cash, which he gave back to the Chinese officials.

VOA: Your vice president was given envelopes of cash from the Chinese?

Panuelo: Correct, and he had disclosed that to me. And so, you can see that they are seeking influence. During my administration, I had to stop the [Chinese] research vessels from coming into our [country's waters], because through information and intelligence, we learned they're doing more than just research.

VOA: What will happen if Micronesia does not get the $3.3 billion under the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act?

Panuelo: I'm here [in Washington, D.C.] meeting friends to look at expeditious approval in Congress, because it's already past the current fiscal year [in Micronesia]. And a lot of our leaders are waiting on the funding to make sure that we continue with [the] education of our children, the health care of our folks.

VOA: Why can't Micronesia close the gap with your trust fund that's valued at close to $1 billion?

Panuelo: The first compact [of free association in 1982]  we did not invest. We started late with the second [2003] renewal. That's when we invested the trust fund so that we can build it up. If we start dipping into it, it's not going to be sustainable, and so it's not going to be wise.

VOA: What's your message to Congress?

Panelo: This is important for the security of the entire Indo-Pacific region, because our region has strategic value that is the cornerstone of foreign policy of the United States in the Pacific.

Our treaty has defense ties that we delegated through our constitution to give the United States some of, if not most of, the defense responsibilities, because we lack defense capacity. We consider ourselves a part of the homeland security of the United States, even though we are a sovereign nation.

VOA: What happens if this doesn't pass?

Panuelo: It will open the window wider that's already been opened for Chinese influence to come in. I think China is making every effort to come in with the influence to try to disrupt our strong and enduring partnership with the United States.

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Nigerian Press Advocates Hail ECOWAS Court Ruling on Media Laws

By Timothy Obiezu December 05, 2023

Nigerian press freedom advocates are praising a recent ruling from the court of West African bloc ECOWAS that ordered Nigerian authorities to review sections of the country's Press Act.

The court said portions of the law discriminate against online and nonprofessional journalists. The ruling followed a lawsuit filed by two Nigerian journalists against authorities in 2021.

Nigerian journalists Isaac Olamikan and Edoghogho Ugberease approached the ECOWAS regional court two years ago after security operatives arrested the duo in separate incidents while they were gathering the news.

Olamikan was accused of practicing with an expired media license. Ugberease  a citizen journalist who often covers happenings in her local community in southern Nigeria's Edo state  was told by authorities that she was not qualified to tell stories or carry out investigations.

But the three-member panel of the ECOWAS court ruled that three sections of the Nigerian Press Council Act imposed age restrictions and educational qualifications for journalists and therefore discriminated against online and citizen journalists.

The court said that technological advancements meant media space is evolving, but that Nigerian law failed to accommodate such changes.

Ahaziah Abubakar, a former director of news at Voice of Nigeria, said the ECOWAS ruling couldn't come at a better time.

"I'm excited that ... a court of competent jurisdiction has ruled on a thing like that," he said. "Journalists have become [an] endangered species."

Journalism advocacy group Reporters Without Borders says Nigeria is one of West Africa's most dangerous and difficult countries for journalists, who are often monitored, attacked and arbitrarily arrested.

The group says that the Nigerian constitution protects freedom of expression, but that there are many laws with provisions that make it possible to obstruct journalism.

In its defense at the ECOWAS court, the Nigerian government said that the rights to information and freedom of expression are not absolute, and that the arrest of the journalists was in the interest of national security.

Abubakar said he's worried about the implementation of the ECOWAS verdict.

"So many court pronouncements in Nigeria, the powers that be do not obey court orders," he said. "Implementation is selective, as it suits the powers that be."

President Aigbokhan, the legal counsel to the Nigerian journalists, said, "Ordinarily, the government will be recalcitrant, so I think civil society groups should take it from there. There should be more public engagement on how that law cannot stand, because as it is now, the sections of those laws have already been struck down, whether or not it is amended nationally."

It's not clear when, or if, Nigerian authorities will amend the law.

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WFP pauses food distributions in northern areas of Yemen

World Food Programme

5 December 2023

SANA'A -- The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) announces the pause of General Food Distributions (GFD) in areas of Yemen under the Sana'a Based Authorities' (SBA) control, driven by limited funding and the absence of an agreement with the authorities on a smaller programme that matches available resources to the neediest families.

This difficult decision, made in consultation with donors, comes after nearly a year of negotiations, during which no agreement was reached to reduce the number of people served from 9.5 million to 6.5 million.

Food stocks in the areas under the Sana'a Based Authorities are now almost completely depleted and resuming food assistance, even with an immediate agreement, could take up to as long as four months due to the disruption of the supply chain of humanitarian food assistance into Yemen.

WFP will continue its resilience and livelihoods, nutrition, and school feeding programmes to limit the impact of the pause of food distributions for as long as the agency has sufficient funding and the cooperation of the authorities in the North.

In areas of Yemen under Government control, general food distributions will continue with a heightened focus on the most vulnerable families, aligning with resource adjustments announced last August. Similar prioritization is taking place in nearly half of WFP's operations around the world as the agency navigates the challenging financial landscape that the entire humanitarian sector is facing.

WFP's top priority is the well-being of those affected, and the agency will continue to work towards a breakthrough in talks with the authorities.



# # #

The United Nations World Food Programme is the world's largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

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Readout of National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Meeting with Prime Minister Andrew Holness of Jamaica

December 05, 2023

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met today with Prime Minister Andrew Holness of Jamaica to advance bilateral cooperation on promoting inclusive economic growth and climate resilient infrastructure, combating transnational criminal organization and the trafficking of illicit drugs and firearms, and promoting regional security under Plan Secure Jamaica. During the meeting, National Security Advisor Sullivan thanked Prime Minister Holness for his steadfast support for a Multinational Security Support mission to Haiti and Jamaica's leadership in facilitating an inclusive political dialogue among Haitian society.

###

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Press Gaggle by Principal Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Dalton En Route Boston, MA

December 05, 2023

Aboard Air Force One

En Route Boston, Massachusetts

10:54 A.M. EST

MS. DALTON: Today, the United States organized a second flight to get much-needed assistance into Gaza with 36,000 pounds of food assistance and medical supplies airlifted by DOD at USAID's request. A U.S. Air Force C-17 aircraft delivered the items to Egypt where they will be transported via ground into Gaza and then distributed by U.N. agencies.

This delivery came as USAID Administrator Samantha Power arrived in Egypt to meet with local officials and Egyptian and international humanitarian organizations that are working to accelerate the pace of vitally needed assistance into Gaza.

Since the start of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, the United States has worked to urgently address the dire humanitarian needs of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. This assistance has included mobilizing more than $100 million in additional humanitarian assistance to civilians; airlifting more than 90,000 pounds of U.N. medical, winter, and food aid; and providing half a million pounds of emergency food assistance to help civilians affected by the conflict.

President Biden and other senior members of the administration will continue to work to sustain and expand the international humanitarian response and keep rallying the international community to do the same.

And another brief word on a milestone back home. As of yesterday, President Biden made  made history on nominating a historic number of judges.

Since the beginning of his term, President Biden has made nominating and confirming deeply qualified judges who are dedicated to our Constitution and the rule of law and who represent the diversity of our nation a core priority.

Yesterday, we passed an important milestone of 160 successful Senate confirmations, two thirds of whom are women, and two thirds of whom are people of color. That, of course, includes the confirmation of Justice Ketanji Brown  Brown Jackson, the first Black woman to serve on the Supreme Court.

President Biden looks forward to building on this groundbreaking record and honoring his promises to the American people.

(Inaudible.)

Q Thanks. Two questions on Ukraine. President Zelenskyy is addressing senators today. Can you talk a little bit about what the White House is hoping to get out of those remarks, what outcome you're looking for?

MS. DALTON: So, I think I'm going to leave it to President Zelenskyy to speak to his schedule.

But certainly, as you know, today, we have arranged for senior administration officials from DOD, State, USAID, and other agencies to brief all senators and all representatives about the need for Congress to continue to support Ukraine and discuss why that matters.

As you know, the stakes couldn't be higher for Ukraine right now as Congress really weighs a fundamental choice: whether to fight for freedom and democracy around the globe in places like Ukraine or to let dictor-  dic-  dictators like Putin prevail.

You know, and, certainly, again, without speaking to President Zelenskyy's schedule, we know on multiple occasions in the past, he has been quite an effective communicator on behalf of the needs of his con-  country to our U.S. Congress.

Q And given the position that the White House finds itself in now with regard to Ukraine funding, does the President at all reconsider or wish he had not promised that the United States would support Ukraine for "as long as it takes"?

MS. DALTON: I'm sorry, can you repeat that?

Q With the position the White House is in now with Ukraine funding stalled and it looking unlikely that Congress might approve more funding, does the President reconsider or wish that he hadn't promised the U.S. would support Ukraine for "as long as it takes"?

MS. DALTON: Absolutely not, with respect to reconsidering that. The President has been resolute since  about the stakes here for Ukraine, and not just for Ukraine but democracies across the globe.

If we're to let a brutal dictator like Vladimir Putin roll over into the sovereign territory of a smaller democratic neighbor, the stakes for the global order, the stakes for other democracies around the globe could not be more significant.

And that's exactly why you continue to see, actually, a bipartisan majority of members of Congress support  support aid for Ukraine.

Jake Sullivan made this point quite directly yesterday that if Ukraine funding was allowed to make it to the floor, bipartisan members of Congress would vote to  to secure it. And so, we believe that there can be and must be a path forward that delivers on not just our promises to Ukraine but our vital national security interests in  in helping Ukraine defend itself against this brutal war of aggression.

Q A quick follow-up on that. With the vote expected tomorrow, and it's likely to fail, what is the White House willing to compromise on when it comes to the border?

MS. DALTON: Well, certainly, I'm not going to stand here and negotiate in public, but I think that the President has been very, very clear and senior administration officials will be very clear to every single member of the  of the House and Senate today about what the stakes are in Ukraine at this moment.

Jake, again, laid this out very clearly. OMB Director Shalanda Young laid this out very clearly in her letter: There is not some magical pot of funding that exists to support Ukraine if Congress doesn't come through on this critical request that we've put forward.

We are about 97 percent of the way through that funding, and it's, you know  time is running out, the funds are running out. By the end of the year, we're going to be in a place where it's going to be difficult to continue providing support to Ukraine without, you know, dipping into our own stockpiles and downgrading, degrading our own military readiness. And so 

Q But are you willing to compromise on the border? I mean, border negotiations are on, and that is why the  the vote is expected to fail tomorrow.

MS. DALTON: Well, look, I will just make a couple points on this. I mean, President Biden introduced comprehensive immigration reform on day one. So, we've spent about three years being ready to sit down and have a serious conversation on immigration reform, but House Republicans have declined to take us up on that.

And so, right now, you know, look, we're in the same place. If Republicans want to have a serious conversation about immigration reform, we're ready to do that.

But, you know, we also need them to move expeditiously and take action now to fund our critical national security needs with  which, by the way, include funding for border security and to stop the flow of fentanyl into the country.

Q And so it's fair to say that the President is absolutely not willing to lose funding for Ukraine by not moving closer to Republican demands on immigration?

MS. DALTON: I'm not going to go farther than what the President has said and the OMB director has laid out. I'm not going to negotiate in public. But I think we've been pretty clear that we find fault in a lot of the proposals that the House Republicans have put forward.

And at the same time, we've been willing to have a serious conversation at the table for three years on comprehensive immigration reform. What we cannot do is delay on funding our critical national security needs, which, by the way, includes the request from the President to fund border security and stem the flow of fentanyl into the country.

Q Senator Cornyn said that the mistake Democrats are making is thinking of this as a negotiation, that, basically, Ukrainian aid is dependent on you guys adopting Republican border measures.

House Speaker Johnson in a letter today said  again reemphasized his desire to see H.R. 2 passed. You noted that that there was  there are differences that the White House holds with them, but it's your understanding that the Republican position at this point is that you have to pass H.R. 2 to unlock Ukraine money?

MS. DALTON: Look, I can't speak for what House Republicans are doing. I think we've made our position clear. We believe that it's time to take expeditious action, that Congress needs to act without delay, pass, you know, supplemental funding on our critical national security needs.

You know, we're happy to have a serious conversation about immigration policy. Happy to do that. But it cannot  you know, we've got to move now on this supplemental request (inaudible).

Q And Vladimir Putin is headed to Saudi Arabia and the UAE for talks. Do you guys have any response to that? Are you concerned that  are you concerned by those conversations and what they could mean for both Ukraine and  and what's going on in Israel?

MS. DALTON: Fortunately, I'm not a spokesperson for Vladimir Putin, so I would refer you to other foreign leaders to speak to their travel. I just don't have anything to say about others' travel.

Q With Cornyn's remarks last night, Schumer called it a textbook case of 

MS. DALTON: (Inaudible.)

Q I'm sorry. With Cornyn's remarks last night tying Ukraine funding with  with border security, Schumer said this morning that it was a textbook case of "hostage taking." There's words like "extortion" being used. Does the President agree with this viewpoint?

MS. DALTON: I don't think  you know, we're not going to ascribe motive here. You know, Jake talked about this a little bit yesterday. What we're focused on doing is speaking to the real-world outcome of what not funding Ukraine would mean.

And, you know, Jake really laid that out in stark terms yesterday what it would mean in terms of handicapping Ukraine's ability to defend itself  shortchanging of equipment, of munitions, and other resources it needs to defend itself in the face of Russia's brutal aggression.

Q You mentioned all the people who are going and advocating for Ukrainian funding. Is the President getting involved? Is he making personal phone calls at any point?

MS. DALTON: Well, you know, the President has been making the case for this publicly and privately. I believe the last time I talked to all of you I had just read out a conversation with returning CODEL members from a CODEL to the  to the Middle East, where he had also, as part of that meeting with senators that occurred late at night, spoke to them about the urgency of Ukraine funding. And that was over a month ago, I think.

So, the President has been making this case publicly and privately for some time. Senior administration officials will continue to do that today and work urgently to get this done.

Q But is he calling Republicans himself?

MS. DALTON: I don't have any calls to read out for you specifically.

Q Is the White House still insisting that the supplemental go in the form that you presented  like that it has to be all four items together?

MS. DALTON: Not going to get into sort of negotiating in public about this. But I think we've been clear about  in, you know, OMB Director Young's letter about what we need to see in terms of funding for our critical national security prior-  priorities.

Q And on immigration, why are Democrats not demanding that there be a solution for DREAMers or for guest workers or some of these items that have been longstanding and relatively popular policies?

MS. DALTON: I'm not sure I understand your question, because I think we've been trying to have that conversation since the very first day the President came into office.

Q But in these specific negotiations, it doesn't seem like any of that stuff is on the table.

MS. DALTON: Well, I'm not going to get into the private discussions that we've been having about border policy. But I think the President's positions on this have been quite clear.

Q If the  it looks like you're not able to get the full $60 billion supplemental for Ukraine, would the White House be open to a shorter-term funding bill that maybe could pass through Congress a little bit easier?

MS. DALTON: Again, I don't think it's productive for me to negotiate out here and to get into hypotheticals about what we would or not  would not do.

You know, this is something that our team continues to talk to lawmakers about and make sure that we are in a position to  again, this is not just about Ukraine, this is not just about Israel, it's not just about  this is about our national security.

And I think, you know, on that basis, we went forward to Congress with a national security supplemental request that we thought would have bipartisan buy-in because it is fundamental to America's national interests.

Q And then, sorry, I just have one question on Israel. It's been a very deadly couple of days in Gaza. The U.N. has warned about a catastrophe unfolding in the south. The WHO director yesterday said they were told to move some medical supplies from their facilities. I'm just wondering if the administration has any concerns about the way Israel is conducting its operation in the south and if it would like to see it behave differently, given the number of Palestinians who are concentrated there.

MS. DALTON: I think, you know, Jake addressed this pretty clearly yesterday, and my colleagues at the State Department did as well. I think it's too early to offer sort of a comprehensive asses-  assessment of this latest phase in the fighting so far, since the humanitarian pause ended as a consequence of Hamas reneging on their end of the deal late last week.

But what I will say is: Israel has heard from us loud and clear our expectation that they uphold international humanitarian law, abide by the rule of  rules of war, and take steps to minimize, to every extent possible, civilian casualties as they persecute this war against Hamas.

Now, as they've moved into the south, where, you know, Israelis believe  the Israeli leadership believes senior Hamas officials are hiding  you know, I think we've detailed, previously, steps that we've taken to advise Israel on, you know, steps that they can take in urban warfare settings to minimize civilian casualties. We've also seen steps that they've taken in recent days to apprise and notify people on the ground, civilians on the ground  by both digitally and via leaflet campaigns  about the imminent ground maneuvers they're about to undertake.

And so, we are seeing some signs of that nature. We have been obviously encouraging Israel to do all that they can as a modern military to try and mitigate civilian casualties.

And I would just add one more thing, which is that the continued flow of humanitarian aid  including the humanitarian aid I just announced that the United States was responsible for facilitating today  continues to be critical in also meeting the needs of those civilians who are fleeing to the safe zones in the south.

Q I just had a quick follow-up on that, Olivia. Just in terms of sort of the steps that, you know, you laid out Israel is taking, would you say that they're taking greater care to avoid civilian deaths in line with request from the U.S.?

MS. DALTON: I  I'm not going to offer an assessment of that at this stage. I think, you know, as Jake and others have said yesterday, it's  you know, it's early days. We're not going to do a play by play.

You know, what we can say is that, you know, we have  we have had direct and consistent conversations with Israeli counterparts about what our expectations are as they prosecute this war against Hamas, which, by the way  and, you know, just in case it needs to get reiterated  continues to launch rockets at Israeli civilian neighborhoods, continues to say that they are intent on, you know, launching October 7th after October 7th after October 7th until Israel is wiped from the map.

So, you know, Israel is in the  in the  is fighting an existential threat, and we recognize that. At the same time, we also continue to communicate the  the substantial need to take great care with civilian life.

Q Olivia, there was a CNN report that the President is looking at announcing new actions to lower healthcare costs. I was curious if you could  if there's anything you have to preview or if you could speak to what the administration is planning to do as far as additional healthcare policy.

MS. DALTON: Well, I'm sorry to disappoint you that I don't have a grand announcement for you  to make for you on the plane today, Brett.

But I think, you know, as you've seen, this President has made it a top priority to lower costs for Americans, including by lowering healthcare premiums; by lowering the cost of prescription drugs by finally winning the decades-long battle against the Big Pharma to allow Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices, to cap the cost of insulin.

So, you know, the President is somebody who understands what a significant burden it is on American people who are  you know, in some cases, seniors were paying thousands of dollars out of pocket for lifesaving cancer drugs. The President is fighting to end that.

And he knows, because he hears it all across the country, how much it means to people to rein that in. And you've seen

significant action from him already, and it shouldn't come as any surprise that that's a  remains a huge priority.

Q Any comment on why today's  the public events on the schedule today are all political? There's nothing official. And does that mean the campaign is picking up the costs for today's flight 

MS. DALTON: Well 

Q  to Boston?

MS. DALTON:  of course, any time there is political travel, you know, we  there are a set of federal regulations that govern the cost sharing. And so, today's travel is certainly being paid for in full compliance with federal reg-  regulations, and that  that assessment is made by the White House Counsel's Office.

With respect to, sort of, whether this is something new, I just think you can expect to see there are going to be some days where the President has all official travel. There will be some days it's all political travel. There will be some days where it's a mix of both things. So, you know, sort of, that's just going to be the natural course of things here.

Q There is a lot of  there is  there's a lot of  there's a lot of fundraising travel happening. With so much going back  going on back in D.C., can we  I lost my thought. (Laughs.) I had so much going 

MS. DALTON: I think I know what you're getting at, which is, you know, the President is president wherever he is. You know, some of you might have been at  with him over Thanksgiving when you ended up having three press conferences over the holiday weekend on the news breaking on the hostage deal, the calls to heads of state.

So, you know, the President is president wherever he is. During our short trip to Boston today, whether he's traveling locally, he's kind of always working and always working the phones and getting briefings from staff. So, you know, he'll continue to do that here today.

Q Will he have a call with President Zelenskyy today, either before or after the thing that you're not talking about happening?

MS. DALTON: I don't have a call to preview, but obviously you'll be the first to know.

Q Is the White House aware of or involved at all in the explosion in Arlington last night?

MS. DALTON: We are tracking the developments in Arlington last night. And I would also just like to say, you know, our thoughts are with the police officers that were injured in that explosion, and we're grateful to law enforcement that handled that situation very swiftly.

I can tell you, ATF is assisting with the local law enforcement investigation into that matter. But beyond that, I would just refer you to Arlington Police Department for more.

All right. Thanks, guys.

Q Thanks, Olivia.

11:13 A.M. EST

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Defence Cooperation Agreement with the US signed

Government Offices of Sweden

06 December 2023

Represented by Swedish Minister for Defence Pal Jonson and United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, Sweden and the US have signed a Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA). This means that the countries have agreed on the conditions for US forces to operate in Sweden. The DCA regulates issues such as the legal status of US forces, access to deployment areas and pre-positioning of military materiel in Sweden.

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Mr Austin received Mr Jonson at the Pentagon for talks on current security issues and enhanced defence cooperation between Sweden and the US. The main point of the meeting was the signing of a DCA.

The signing of the DCA simplifies the conditions that will apply when US forces are in Sweden

The DCA is an important step in deepened military cooperation with the US. It strengthens both Sweden's and its neighbouring countries' regional security by conveying the engagement and actual presence of the US.

The US has entered into DCAs with a large number of European countries. Norway signed a DCA in 2021, and both Finland and Denmark are currently negotiating DCAs with the US.

The DCA specifies the Swedish Armed Forces' areas and facilities where the US will have access to visit and conduct activities. See the attached DCA for more details.

In order for the DCA to enter into force, the Riksdag must approve it and adopt the legislative amendments needed to implement it. Consideration in the Riksdag, followed by entry into force, should be possible in 2024.

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Tens of thousands of Palestinians displaced to southern Gazan city to escape Israeli attacks

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 11:00, December 06, 2023

GAZA, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations said on Tuesday that it has monitored a record number of Palestinians who have been displaced to the city of Rafah, in the far south of the Gaza Strip, to escape Israeli attacks.

In a press statement, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that tens of thousands of displaced people from the neighboring Khan Younis have arrived in Rafah in the past 48 hours.

Most of the newly arrived people settled in the city's streets and empty spaces, where they set up tents and temporary shelters, as the shelters in Rafah have far exceeded their capacity.

On Dec. 1, the Israeli army published a map of safe areas for the evacuation of Gazans during the next stage of the conflict.

In addition to the area inside the city of Khan Younis, residents from the communities east of Khan Younis, Al-Qarara, Khuza'a, Abasan, and Bani Suhaila, were ordered to move south to Rafah.

These areas, which occupy 69 square kilometers and constitute 19 percent of the land area of the Gaza Strip, were home to about 352,000 people before the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The Israeli army also ordered residents to evacuate from the eastern part of Gaza City and Jabalia in northern Gaza Strip towards the western areas of the enclave.

These areas make up about 6 percent of the Gaza Strip's total land area and were home to about 415,000 people before the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The number of individuals departing the area in response to the most recent Israeli evacuation order is yet unknown, as many nearby residents have already been evacuated.

Overall, it is estimated that about 1.8 million people in Gaza, or nearly 80 percent of the total population, are internally displaced, according to the OCHA.

Nearly 1.1 million displaced people were registered in 156 facilities affiliated with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) throughout Gaza. Among them, 958,000 people were registered in the agency's 99 shelters in the south.

An estimated 191,000 displaced people are being housed by 124 public schools, hospitals, and other places such as wedding halls, offices and community centers, and the rest live in homes of their family members.

Fighting resumed between Israel and the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) on Dec. 1 after the collapse of a seven-day ceasefire.

According to the Gaza-based Health Ministry, 15,899 Palestinians have been killed, and more than 42,000 others injured in the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip since Oct. 7, when Hamas launched a surprise attack on southern Israel. In Israel, about 1,200 have been killed, most of whom died during Hamas's attack on Oct. 7 that triggered the conflict.

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Russo-Ukraine War - 05 December 2023 - Day 650

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 recent weeks Russian forces have made creeping advances through the ruins of Marinka, a town in Donetsk Oblast. Russia now likely controls most of the built-up area. However, Ukrainian forces remain in control of pockets of territory on the western edge of the town.

Marinka has been on the front line since 2014. With a pre-war population of 9000, it is comprehensively ruined drone footage suggests that the vast majority of buildings have been reduced to rubble.

Russia's renewed efforts against Marinka are part of Russia's autumn offensive which is prioritising extending Russia's control over the remaining parts of the Donetsk Oblast  highly likely still one of the Kremlin's core war aims.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day of December 5, there were 70x combat engagements.

Russian forces launched a total of 4x missile strikes, 53x air strikes, 59x MLRS attacks at the positions of Ukrainian troops and various settlements. Unfortunately, the Russian attacks have resulted in civilian casualties and injuries. Private residential buildings as well as 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 its sabotage and reconnaissance activities, shelling Ukrainian settlements from the territory of Russia and increases the density of minefields along the state border of Ukraine. The Russian invaders launched air strikes near Kostobobriv (Chernihiv oblast) and Novodmytrivka (Sumy oblast). Around 15x settlements came under Russian artillery and mortar fire, including Kostobobriv, Khrinivka, Mkhy (Chernihiv oblast), Popivka, Bachivs'k, Hrabovs'ke (Sumy oblast), Nesterne, Kozacha Lopan', Bilyi Kolodyaz', Vovchans'k (Kharkiv oblast).

Kup'yans'k axis: Ukrainian defenders repelled 5x Russian attacks in the vicinities of Syn'kivka (Kharkiv oblast) and Novoselivs'ke (Luhansk oblast). Russian forces launched an air strike near Ivanivka (Kharkiv oblast). The invaders fired artillery and mortars at around 10x settlements, including Dvorichna, Petropavlivka, Ivanivka, Berestove (Kharkiv oblast).

Lyman axis: Ukrainian defense forces repelled 13x attacks in the area of Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), and Terny, Spirne, Vesele, Rozdolivka (Donetsk oblast), where Russian forces with air support attempted to force Ukrainian units out of their positions. The Russian occupiers fired artillery and mortars at around 15x settlements, including Nevs'ke, Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), Yampolivka, Tors'ke, Serebryanka, Verkhn'okam'yans'ke, Spirne, Rozdolivka (Donetsk oblast).

Bakhmut axis: Ukrainian defenders repelled 9x attacks near Bohdanivka, Klishchiivka and Andriivka (Donetsk oblast). Around 10x settlements, including Orikhovo-Vasylivka, Chasiv Yar, Ivanivske, Bohdanivka, New York (Donetsk oblast), came under artillery and mortar fire.

Avdiivka axis: Ukrainian defenders repelled 23x attacks in the area east of Novobakhmutivka, Stepove, northeast of Berdychi, Avdiivka, Sjeverne, Pervomais'ke (Donetsk oblast), where Russian forces with air support was making unsuccessful attempts to breach Ukrainian defenses. Also, the invaders launched air strikes in the vicinities of Oleksandropil' and Novobakhmutivka (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at more than 15x settlements, including Oleksandropil', Novokalynove, Stepove, Avdiivka, Sjeverne, Pervomais'ke (Donetsk oblast).

Mar'inka axis: Ukrainian defense forces continue to hold back Russian forces in the vicinities of Mar'inka, Pobjeda and Novomykhailivka (Donetsk oblast), where Russian forces, with air support, launched 13x attacks on positions of Ukrainian defenders. The settlements of Krasnohorivka, Heorhiivka, Mar'inka, Pobjeda, Antonivka, Novomykhailivka (Donetsk oblast) were under artillery and mortar fire of the occupiers.

Shakhtars'ke axis: Ukrainian defenders repelled a Russian attack south of Zolota Nyva (Donetsk oblast). The Russian occupiers launched an air strike in the vicinity of Urozhaine (Donetsk oblast). Around 10x settlements, including Vodyane, Vuhledar, Prechystivka, Zolota Nyva, Urozhaine (Donetsk oblast), came under artillery and mortar fire.

Zaporizhzhia axis: Ukrainian defense forces repelled all Russian attacks west of Verbove (Zaporizhzhia oblast). The Russian adversary launched an air strike near Novodarivka (Zaporizhzhia oblast). More than 20x settlements, including Chervone, Bilohir'ya, Robotyne, P'yatykhatky, Kam'yans'ke (Zaporizhzhia oblast), came under artillery and mortar fire.

Kherson axis: the occupiers launched air strikes in the vicinities of Tyahynka and Krynky (Kherson oblast). Russian forces fired artillery at the cities of Kherson and Ochakiv (Mykolaiv oblast).

Ukrainian Defense Forces continue to hold their ground on the left bank of the Dnipro River (Kherson oblast) and inflict fire on Russian forces.

During the day of December 5, Ukrainian Air Force launched 15x strikes on concentrations of troops, weapons and military equipment, 4x strikes on command posts, and 3x strikes on air defense systems of the occupiers. Ukrainian air defense forces destroyed 1x russian Su-24M bomber.

Ukrainian missile troops hit 6x concentrations of troops, weapons and military equipment, 1x command post, 1x ammunition depot, 2x electronic warfare stations, and 11x artillery systems of the Russian invaders.

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 three attacks of assault groups of AFU 43rd mechanised, 57th mechanised infantry brigades near Ivanovka and Sinkovka (Kharkov region).

The Zapad Group of Forces inflicted fire damage on clusters of AFU manpower and hardware close to Peschanoye, Berestovoye (Kharkov region), and Nevskoye (Lugansk People's Republic).

Up to 35 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system have been eliminated.

In Krasny Liman direction, the Tsentr Group of Forces' units, aviation, and artillery inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of AFU 63rd, 66th mechanised brigades near Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk People's Republic), and Serebryansky forestry.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 55 Ukrainian troops and two motor vehicles.

In Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces supported by aviation and artillery repelled four enemy attacks and inflicted fire damage on AFU manpower and hardware near Bogdanovka, Kleshcheyevka, and Toretsk (Donetsk People's Republic).

The enemy has lost up to 270 Ukrainian personnel, as well as two armoured fighting vehicles.

In South Donetsk direction, units of the Vostok Group of Forces, helicopters, and artillery inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 79th Air Assault Brigade, as well as 102nd, 128th territorial defence brigades near Novomikhailovka, Urozhaynoye (Donetsk People's Republic), and Levadnoye (Zaporozhye region).

During the day, a total of 245 Ukrainian troops, four armoured fighting vehicles, four motor vehicles, one Msta-B howitzer, and one D-30 howitzer have been neutralised.

In Zaporozhye direction, units of the Russian Group of Forces repelled one attack by the AFU 117th Mechanised Brigade's assault group close to Uspenovka (Zaporozhye region).

In addition, air strikes and artillery fire struck the personnel and hardware of the 65th Mechanised Brigade close to Rabotino amd Dorozhnyanka (Zaporozhye region).

The enemy losses were up to 50 servicemen, four armoured fighting vehicles, four pickup trucks, and one Giatsing-B gun.

In Kherson direction, as a result of the Russian Group of Forces actions, artillery, and aviation, the AFU losses amounted to up to 40 Ukrainian troops, five motor vehicles, one M-109 Paladin self-propelled artillery system, one U.S.-made M777 artillery system, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system.

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 103 areas during the day.

Air defence units shot down two MiG-29 aircraft of the Ukrainian Air Force near Shirokoye (Dnepropetrovsk region) and Bereznigovatoye (Nikolayev region), as well as one Mi-8 helicopter close to Peschanoye (Kharkov region).

In addition, 74 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were intercepted near Sergeyevka (Lugansk People's Republic), Gorlovka, Spornoye, Yalynskoye (Donetsk People's Republic), Chubarevka, Tokmak (Zaporozhye region), Novaya Kakhovka, Ivanovka (Kherson region), as well as one HARM anti-radiation missile.

In total, 547 airplanes and 257 helicopters, 9,465 unmanned aerial vehicles, 442 air defence missile systems, 13,807 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,187 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 7,234 field artillery guns and mortars, as well as 15,939 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.





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China Introduces Daily Health Checks in Schools as Respiratory Diseases Spike

Sputnik News

20231205

BEIJING (Sputnik) - The Chinese Education Ministry announced on Tuesday that it had ordered the introduction of an epidemiological monitoring system in schools and kindergartens to conduct daily health checks amid a surge in seasonal respiratory diseases among children.

On Monday, China's National Health Commission (NHC) ordered the improvement of medical facilities and increased working hours, if necessary, against the backdrop of rising respiratory diseases.

"It is necessary to bolster the creation of an epidemiological monitoring system, focus on setting up a system of morning and afternoon physical examinations in primary and middle schools and also in kindergartens, and to introduce a reporting system on the epidemiological situation, as well as a system to register absences due to illness," the ministry document said.

School administrators were also advised to cooperate and consult with local health authorities. Teachers were recommended to work with children who cannot come to school through online platforms.

In mid-October, the NHC reported a spike in respiratory illnesses in the country. Authorities attributed the surge to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions and the spread of other pathogens. In late November, media reported undiagnosed pneumonia among children in northern China.

Last week, Russian consumer watchdog Rospotrebnadzor said that China had seen an increase in pneumonia cases, especially among children in Beijing and the Liaoning province, as well as influenza. The main cause of pneumonia is the mycoplasma bacteria, whose incidence is cyclical and peaks every three to seven years, the watchdog said.

World Health Organization spokeswoman Margaret Harris said that outbreaks of mycoplasma pneumonia were normal in China during the winter and the disease was not considered to have pandemic potential at the time.

A Sputnik

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Private rocket start-up Galactic Energy sends 2 satellites into twilight orbit

Global Times

By Tao Mingyang Published: Dec 05, 2023 01:23 PM Updated: Dec 05, 2023 01:21 PM

Beijing-based private carrier rocket developer Galactic Energy said it had completed its most recent launch mission on Tuesday, sending two satellites into the twilight orbit, the company's first such launch.

CERES-1 Y9, Galactic Energy's self-developed carrier rocket, blasted off at 7:33 am from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in Northwest China's Gansu Province carrying two satellites, TIANYAN 16 and STARPOOL 1A, delivering them into the planned twilight orbit at an altitude of 500 kilometers.

The twilight orbit is a special sun-synchronous orbit that allows satellites to realize continuous solar power supply.

The launch was Galactic Energy's 10th successful launch mission by the CERES series carrier rocket. Galactic Energy has launched 35 commercial satellites of various types for 16 clients, said the company.

The CERES-1 is a small-scale solid-propellant carrier rocket designed to send micro-satellites into low-Earth orbit. It's 1.4 meters in diameter and has a total length of about 20 meters and a takeoff weight of 33 tons. It can carry a payload of up to 300 kilograms into a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 500 kilometers.

TIANYAN-16 was developed by Gengyumuxing Space Technology Co, a Chinese company, and it will be used in meteorological environment detection. STARPOOL-1A was developed by the Elipspace Technology Co, which belonged to the company's "Star Pool Project" made up of more than 100 satellites, and will be used in the sectors of energy infrastructure inspection, carbon emissions, disaster response and environmental detection.

In September, a launch by Galactic Energy's CERES-1 rocket failed to reach orbit. The company vowed to review its experience and better contribute to China's commercial aerospace industry.

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Chinese giant commercial rocket pulls off country's first long-distance sea-based launch

Global Times

By Deng Xiaoci and Fan Wei Published: Dec 06, 2023 12:33 PM

China's Smart Dragon-3 - one of the country's largest solid propellent rockets - thundered into the sky from waters in the South China Sea off the coast of South China's Guangdong Province at 3:24 am on Wednesday, placing a satellite for internet technology experiments into its intended orbit, marking a full success of the rocket model's first operational launch as well as that of the country's first long-distance sea-based launch, the Global Times learned from the rocket developers.

The Smart Dragon-3 is developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT) with the funding support from China Rocket Corp. The rocket model completed its successful maiden flight in the Yellow Sea on December 9, 2022, and the early morning flight on Wednesday continued such sea-based launch approach.

After preparation work for the launch was completed at the Dongfang Spaceport in Hai-yang, East China's Shandong Province, the rocket sailed with the launch vessel over 1,300 nautical miles in five and a half days to the designated waters of South China Sea near Guangdong Province for the launch, which marked China's first long-distance sea-based launch, showcasing integrated advantages in rocket production, manufacturing, and launch, shortening the launch chain and improving launch efficiency, mission insiders hailed.

Jin Xin, the chief commander of Smart Dragon-3 with the CALT, emphasized the challenges of long-distance sea-based launches, including complex sea conditions and distance from the home port, demanded higher reliability of the rocket.

To address such challenges, the launch ship was equipped with a thermal tent to provide a stable temperature and humidity environment for the Smart Dragon-3 during transit. Moreover, the rocket is capable of being transported even in sea state 4, demonstrating strong environmental adaptability, Jin explained to the Global Times on Wednesday.

This launch was also the first in the South China Sea near Guangdong Province, a region capable of near-sea launches into near-polar and sun-synchronous orbits. The successful mission validated Smart Dragon-3's capability for long-distance sea-based launches, en-hancing the rocket's mission adaptability, according to CALT.

Notably, the Smart Dragon-3 rocket also overcame challenges in satellite inclined layout and separation during this mission, showcasing its enhanced mission adaptability.

Unlike traditional satellite side-mounting or vertical docking, the satellite carried by Smart Dragon-3 was installed at a 30-degree angle. The rocket development team tackled key issues in satellite attitude control and separation safety, ensuring reliable and safe separa-tion.

Guan Hongren, the chief designer of Smart Dragon-3, told the Global Times on Wednes-day that following the successful inaugural flight, the development team engaged in "re-analysis, re-design, and re-verification" to enhance the rocket's reliability and safety.

Through task-specific design, rapid integration of satellite-rocket interfaces, and optimized launch procedures, Smart Dragon-3 is now capable of batch assembly of the rocket body, significantly reducing mission response time, compressing the compliance period, and adapting to the complex and variable nature of commercial satellite launch missions. It meets the high-frequency launch demands of the future.

Smart Dragon-3 is designed to complete satellite-rocket technical preparations and launch within a week, representing a solid-fuel launch vehicle built for the future demands of rapid satellite constellation deployment, offering high cost-effectiveness, reliability, rapid contract fulfillment, and fast launching.

The four-stage Smart Dragon-3 rocket has a diameter of 2.64 meters, a length of 31.8 me-ters and a liftoff weight of 140 tons, and is capable of sending multiple satellites with a combined weight of 1.5 tons into Sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 500 kilometers. It can be launched from the ground or at sea, the Global Times learned from the China Rock-et.

Moreover, the rocket could launch up to 20 satellites in one go, which will help domestic and overseas clients to achieve rapid constellation deployment.

In 2024, Smart Dragon-3 plans to undertake more than five launch missions, the CALT re-vealed.

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Tsikhanouskaya Calls On U.S. To Support Belarusian Opposition, Tighten Sanctions On Lukashenka

By Todd Prince December 05, 2023

WASHINGTON -- Exiled Belarusian opposition leader Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya has called on U.S. lawmakers to materially support the Belarusian democracy movement abroad and tighten sanctions on authoritarian leader Alyaksandr Lukashenka amid a push for a clear U.S. strategy for her country.

In testimony on Capitol Hill on December 5, Tsikhanouskaya also asked U.S. lawmakers to urge the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate Lukashenka for the deportation of Ukrainian children to Belarus and back more military aid to Kyiv, saying her nation's freedom hinges on Ukraine defeating Russia.

Tsikhanouskaya's visit to Washington comes as Congress is embroiled in debate over a bill that would send billions of dollars in military aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, raising questions how much bandwidth lawmakers and the White House have for Belarus right now. She sought to hammer home that supporting the Belarus opposition is in the U.S. national interest.

"Supporting free Belarus is not charity. It's your investment into the global peace and security," she told lawmakers, using the same pitch that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy delivered to Congress nearly a year ago as he sought more U.S. aid for his country's fight against Russia.

Tsikhanouskaya asked lawmakers to "provide material assistance" to the Belarusian opposition, their family members, and media. She said members of the Belarusian opposition living abroad, including herself, are paying a "big price" for their dogged pursuit of democracy and "we can't do it alone."

Belarusian authorities last week raided about 200 homes belonging to members of the government in exile and their family. The authorities said they would seek to expropriate property. Relatives of several members of the government in exile, including Tsikhanouskaya's husband, are in prison.

She said the opposition needs money to counter the vast resources Russia spends on propaganda and disinformation in Belarus as well as to help its members who have suffered terribly under Lukashenka.

There are about 1,500 political prisoners in Belarus, most of whom were jailed following mass demonstrations to protest the outcome of the August 2020 election. Lukashenka claimed to defeat Tsikhanouskaya with 80 percent in a vote the opposition called rigged. Tsikhanouskaya and other leading members of the opposition fled Belarus to avoid persecution along with thousands of other citizens.

Belarus treats political prisoners harshly and those exiting now are in "awful physical and emotional state," Tsikhanouskaya said.

"These people need rehabilitation and we need to support the organization of rehabilitation programs so people do not feel that they have been abandoned" after risking their lives for democracy, she told the lawmakers.

Representative Bill Keating (Democrat-Massachusetts) told the hearing that Congress had appropriated $30 million for Belarusian civil society and democracy.

Sanctions

Tsikhanouskaya also called on lawmakers to expand sanctions to include Belarusian wood and steel and to close loopholes that allow Lukashenka to circumvent existing sanctions.

As Tsikhanouskaya testified, the U.S. Treasury Department announced a raft of sanctions targeting several entities and individuals that it said generate revenue for Lukashenka and support Russia's war in Ukraine. The sanctions also target the head of the Belarus Red Cross, accusing him of being complicit in the deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia.

Tsikhanouskaya accused the Lukashenka regime of accepting about 2,000 children from Russian-occupied Ukraine. She said the opposition has sent "tons of proof" to the ICC and, lamenting that no action had been taken yet, she asked Congress to push the ICC to open an investigation.

The ICC earlier this year issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian commissioner for children's rights, Maria Lvova-Belova, for the deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia.

"People have to feel that dictators shouldn't feel impunity for their crimes," she told the lawmakers.

Envoy, Ukraine Aid

Tsikhanouskaya is visiting Washington with other members of the Belarusian exiled government to take part in a new initiative organized by the State Department that seeks to coordinate various U.S. government efforts aimed at supporting the Belarusian democratic movement.

The so-called Strategic Dialogue will take place December 6-7 at the State Department and include members of Belarusian civil society and human rights defenders.

She said she hopes the dialogue will lead to a clear U.S. strategy for Belarus, including its place in a post-Ukraine war security architecture.

Tsikhanouskaya also told Congress she wants the White House to appoint a special envoy for Belarus to help be a "bridge" between the opposition and the U.S. government and to help coordinate a whole-of-government strategy toward Belarus.

"We need to clearly understand what will be the future steps of the U.S. [government] and that's why we need this person," she told lawmakers.

Tsikhanouskaya urged Congress to approve more military aid for Kyiv, saying the fate of Ukraine and Belarus are intertwined.

Congress has been unable to pass new aid for Ukraine for months as Republicans tie the shipment of weapons to Kyiv with border security and U.S. immigration reform. The White House on December 4 warned that current aid to Ukraine will run out by the end of the month if a new bill isn't passed.

"Without a free Ukraine, there will be no free Belarus but also vice versa. We have to remember that without a free, independent Belarus, there will be a constant threat to the security of the whole region of Europe. So help Ukraine to win this war."

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/tsikhanouskaya-us-support- belarusian-opposition-sanctions/32715837.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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U.S. Targets Belarusian Red Cross Official, Regime's 'Revenue Generators' With Sanctions

By RFE/RL December 05, 2023

The United States on December 5 imposed fresh sanctions targeting several entities and individuals that the U.S. Treasury Department says are revenue generators for the regime of Belarusian authoritarian leader Alyaksandr Lukashenka.

The action aims to increase pressure on the Lukashenka regime for its "brutal suppression of Belarus's democratic civil society, corrupt financial enrichment of the Lukashenka family, and complicity in Russia's unjustified war against Ukraine," the Treasury Department said in a news release.

One of the individuals targeted is Dzmitry Shautsou, secretary-general for the Belarus Red Cross, whom the Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) said has been complicit in Russia's efforts to transport Ukrainian children to Russia.

The Russian government and Belarus's regime "have been working together to coordinate and fund the movement of children from Ukraine to Belarus," the Treasury Department said.

Both Ukraine and the Belarusian democratic opposition have labeled the transfers unlawful deportations, and the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, the Russian commissioner for children's rights, for their roles in the unlawful deportations. Moscow has not denied transferring Ukrainian children to Russia but claims it did so for their own protection.

OFAC said it was designating Shautsou for having assisted Lvova-Belova, who has previously been designated for sanctions, in her efforts to transport Ukrainian children to Russia.

The Belarusian Red Cross reported in June that more than 700 Ukrainian children were in Belarus, and in July, the Belarus Red Cross sparked international outrage when Shautsou visited children in the Luhansk region of Ukraine and said on Belarusian state television that the organization has been actively involved in bringing Ukrainian children from Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine to Belarus.

The International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has called for Shautsou's removal, and the IFRC on December 1 suspended the membership of the Belarus Red Cross.

The Treasury Department announced the sanctions during a visit to Washington by Belarusian Opposition leader Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who testified before the House Foreign Affairs Committee, telling lawmakers that Belarus accepted about 2,000 children who had been deported from Russian-occupied Ukraine.

Undersecretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson said in the news release that the United States will continue to target "actors who facilitate Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine, coordinate the movement of children from Ukraine to Belarus, and support Lukashenka's authoritarian regime."

The sanctions also take aim at what treasury said were the Lukashenka regime's revenue generators and his so-called personal wallets by targeting members of Lukashenka's inner circle, including Alyaksandr Shakutsin, one of the leading businessmen in Belarus who made his fortune through privatization under Lukashenka.

Shakutsin controls a large piece of Belarus's construction machinery production business through his company Amkodor, which is currently planning to produce attack drones and artillery fire systems, the treasury said.

"Despite running a deficit for years, Amkodor has relied on Shakutsin's personal relationship with Lukashenka to secure highly favorable loans and other forms of public support at the expense of the average Belarusian," the department said.

Among the other Belarusian entities designated for sanctions are three state-owned companies that OFAC said have served as "revenue generators" for the regime: the Belarusian Cement Company, Belarusian Production and Trade Concern of Timber Woodworking and Pulp and Paper Industry (Bellesbumprom), and Republican Unitary Enterprise Beltamozhservice (Beltamozhservice).

The designation also names the general director of Beltamozhservice, Vadim Babarikin, and two of Belarus's richest oligarchs, Pavel Topuzidis and Viktor Petrovich, who though their business Tabak Invest control 30 percent of Belarus's tobacco production. The company has been cited in news reports as having been involved in a cigarette-smuggling scheme into Russia that has generated millions of dollars in revenue.

The designation also names companies in the Belarusian defense sector and some of their directors that OFAC said have supported Russia's war in Ukraine.

The sanctions freeze any assets held by the individuals and entities held in U.S. jurisdiction and generally bar Americans from dealing with them.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/us-sanctions-belarus- red-cross-revenue-generators-russia-ukraine/32715826.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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Taking Additional Sweeping Actions Against the Belarusian Regime

US Department of State

Press Statement

Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson

December 5, 2023

The United States is today designating 19 individuals and entities that generate revenue for the Lukashenka regime, operate in the Belarusian defense sector, and facilitate Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. We are taking these actions to increase the cost to the Lukashenka regime for its brutal suppression of the pro-democracy movement and civil society in Belarus, corrupt financial enrichment of the Lukashenka family, and complicity in Russia's unjustified war against Ukraine.

Today's action reaffirms the United States efforts to promote accountability for the Lukashenka regime's abuses in Belarus and around the world. We will continue to support democratic actors and civil society in Belarus who oppose Lukashenka's authoritarian regime and its support of the Kremlin's war effort against Ukraine.

The Department of the Treasury actions were taken pursuant to Executive Orders (E.O.) 14038 "Blocking Property of Additional Persons Contributing to the Situation in Belarus" and E.O. 14024 "Blocking Property With Respect To Specified Harmful Foreign Activities of the Government of the Russian Federation." For more information on these designations, see Treasury's press release.

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China's big six state-owned banks hold talks with property developers regarding financing demand

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Dec 05, 2023 07:43 PM

China's big six state-owned banks have held talks with real estate companies regarding financing demand amid sluggish sales, according to National Business Daily on Monday.

The Postal Savings Bank of China and Bank of China announced on Monday that they had conducted one-on-one dialogues with property developers to discuss new types of cooperation between banks and the industry, the last two state-owned banks to have engaged in such discussions with developers in terms of financing demand.

The Postal Savings Bank of China said that the discussions were made with state-owned, mixed ownership and private enterprises, and the topics covered industry performance, policy requirement and market demand.

The China Construction Bank on November 24 held talks with six property developers over their funding needs, and communicated with them in terms of bond underwriting and investment, loans for operating properties, bank credit enhancement, and offshore and cross-border financing.

As of Monday, China's big six state-owned banks, including Agricultural Bank of China, Bank of China, Bank of Communications, China Construction Bank, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and the Postal Savings Bank of China had all held talks with real estate companies, aiming to strengthen ties with the real estate industry and address problems.

There are more than 20 real estate companies attending the discussions, including Vanke Group, Longfor Group and Midea Real Estate Holdings, according to announcement by the banks.

The real estate companies have generally expressed concern about the guarantee of loan quotas for new investment projects, and they also expressed that they held various types of commercial properties and were eager to quickly and fully utilize such assets for daily operations, according to a report from chnfund.com.

The discussions with real estate companies were following a joint meeting by People's Bank of China, the National Financial Regulatory Administration and China Securities Regulatory Commission on November 17, which emphasized that financial institutions should meet the reasonable financing needs of real estate enterprises of different ownerships.

The meeting also stressed that the financial institutions should support reasonable equity financing, accelerate the real estate financial supply-side reform, and discover new models of real estate development.

The banks have vowed to support property developers with different ownerships without discrimination and promote the construction of three major projects, which include subsidized housing, urban village rehabilitation and public infrastructure development.

The China Construction Bank stressed the importance of promoting a virtuous cycle of finance and real estate, while Industrial and Commercial Bank of China expected to invest more in real estate development loans, personal home loans, bond underwriting and investment, to support non-state-owned real estate enterprises.

Real estate sales in China have been under pressure, in November, the top 100 real estate enterprises in China reported sales of 390.2 billion yuan ($55.1 billion), down 29.6 percent year-on-year. In the first 11 months of 2023, the enterprises' sales decreased 14.4 percent year-on-year, down to 4953.7 billion yuan, according to Real Estate Information Corp, or CRIC, a unit of E-House (China) Enterprise Holdings Ltd.

In December, banks will come out with clearer guidance and support objectives, according to Yan Yuejin, research director at Shanghai-based E-house China R&D Institute.

The financial sector should strengthen coordination with fiscal and regulatory policies, proactively adapt to the major transformation of the real estate market, adhere to the principle that China will continue to uphold the principle that houses are for living in, not for speculation, and prevent the risk spillover of the real estate market, according to an article by Pan Gongsheng, governor of the People's Bank of China, the central bank, which was published on the People's Daily on Monday.

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US, Japan, Australia hold first joint command post drill 'with China in mind'

Global Times

By Liu Xuanzun Published: Dec 05, 2023 08:35 PM

Japan, the US and Australia recently launched their first trilateral command post drill that aims to boost the defense of Japan "with China in mind," a move Chinese experts said on Tuesday reflects the three countries' groundless, dangerous obsession in hyping the "China threat" theory.

Japan's Self-Defense Forces and the US and Australian militaries on Monday held an opening ceremony for the Yama Sakura joint command post exercise at Camp Asaka of the Ground Self-Defense Force on Monday, Japanese broadcaster NHK reported on the day.

The Yama Sakura exercises have been held by the Ground Self-Defense Force and the US Army since 1982, and this is the first time the Australian military is taking part, NHK reported.

In the exercise that is set to last until December 13, participants will confirm procedures for sending troops to Japan from the US and Australia if Japan is attacked and working with Self-Defense Forces personnel to defend the country, NHK quoted officers as saying.

NHK noted that the three countries' defense chiefs in June agreed to expand joint drills "with an eye on China's increasing maritime activities."

Song Zhongping, a Chinese military expert and TV commentator, told the Global Times on Tuesday that the trilateral exercise sees China as an imaginary enemy.

Ground forces of the US, Japan and Australia are transforming to become ready for amphibious combat, and some of them have long-range strike capabilities, Song said.

The three countries imagine that in a possible confrontation with China, they would need to fight under a system that consists of all military services and branches, so not only their maritime and air forces, but also ground forces are holding joint exercises, Song said.

China follows a national defense policy that is defensive in nature, not to mention that China does not share a land border with either Japan, the US or Australia, so there is no scenario in which the three countries' armed forces, particularly ground forces, would be required to face the Chinese military, other than them starting a fight first, like intervening in the Taiwan question, analysts said.

Some Western countries have become obsessed with hyping the "China threat" theory, and are targeting everything they do against China without any convincing reasons, another Chinese military expert, who requested anonymity, told the Global Times on Tuesday.

The truth is that the US and its allies are using the "China threat" theory as an excuse to maintain military hegemony, at the cost of other countries' rightful security concerns, the expert said.

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin's Regular Press Conference on December 5, 2023

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

2023-12-05 19:06

China News Service: On December 1 local time, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Assembly at its 33rd session elected the new Council in London, the UK. China was once again elected a category (a) member of the Council with strong support, its 18th reelection since 1989. Would you like to comment on this?

Wang Wenbin: The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the United Nations specialized agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution by ships. China attaches high importance to and actively supports the organization's work. China's reelection with strong support as a category (a) member of the IMO Council speaks to the international community's recognition of its contribution to global maritime governance and promoting the sustainable development of shipping.

China stands ready to work with other members to continue supporting the multilateral maritime framework with the IMO at the core and jointly pursue high-quality development in the shipping industry.

China Review News: It was reported that on November 29, an Air Force CV-22 Osprey of US Forces Japan crashed off the shore of Yakushima Island, Kagoshima prefecture. Japan has asked the US to have a thorough investigation into the accident and before finding the reasons, stop flying Osprey aircraft deployed in Japan. But the US ignored this demand and continued flying the aircraft. What is China's comment?

Wang Wenbin: The US military, while professing that it safeguards the region's peace and stability, has behaved unscrupulously under the protection of exterritoriality. While professing it protects the security of allies, the US has in fact become a source of insecurity for its allies. According to statistics from the government of Okinawa Prefecture, by the end of 2020, US Forces Japan has committed over 6,000 criminal crimes and produced over 800 air accidents in Okinawa. The Osprey aircraft involved in this accident has experienced multiple severe accidents, leaving many injured, dead or missing. The US needs to take a serious and responsible attitude, take seriously the concerns of the local people, have a thorough investigation into the accident, give a reasonable explanation to relevant parties, and restore peace and tranquility in the region.

ARD German Television: On December 1, Bilal Karimi started officially his position as the ambassador of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan in Beijing. My question is, is China formally recognizing the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan?

Wang Wenbin: As a long-standing friendly neighbor of Afghanistan, China believes that Afghanistan should not be excluded from the international community. We hope Afghanistan will further respond to the expectations of the international community, build an open and inclusive political structure, adopt moderate and prudent domestic and foreign policies, firmly combat all forms of terrorist forces, develop friendly relations with other countries, especially with its neighbors, and integrate itself into the world community. We believe that diplomatic recognition of the Afghan government will come naturally as the concerns of various parties are effectively addressed.

CCTV: China started to extend unilateral visa-free policy to six countries, namely France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia on December 1. Do you have any update on the effects of the policy? Do you have any additional information to share?

Wang Wenbin: To further facilitate cross-border travel and China's high-quality development and high-standard opening up, China started to extend unilateral visa-free policy to six countries including France and Germany on December 1. The policy has produced positive effects. According to data from the National Immigration Administration, from December 1 to 3, there was a continued increase of entries from these countries. Nearly 18,000 travelers from the six countries entered China, with the daily average up by 39 percent from November 30. Nearly 7,000 of these travelers or 39 percent of the total came on the visa-free policy. From these numbers we can see how the unilateral visa-free policy is making things easier for travelers of the six countries. Going forward, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to adjust visa policies to create more favorable conditions and further facilitate cross-border travel.

Reuters: According to Japanese media, a Chinese citizen was arrested by Japanese police for suspicion of leaking business secret. Do you have any comment? Can you share more information on this?

Wang Wenbin: I am not aware of the specifics. China always asks our citizens overseas to abide by the laws and regulations of host countries and we hope Japan will earnestly protect the lawful rights and interests of Chinese citizens in Japan.

Phoenix TV: Leader of the Taiwan region Tsai Ing-wen recently said at a DPP campaign rally that "we don't want Hong Kong-style peace, we want peace with dignity", the 2024 general election is not a choice between peace and war, and it is the people of Taiwan who must choose peace with dignity. What is your comment?

Wang Wenbin: This is not a question on foreign affairs. Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. The election in the Taiwan region is purely China's internal affair.

I would like to stress that "Taiwan independence" is as incompatible with cross-Strait peace as fire with water. "Taiwan independence" means war and "Taiwan independence" is a dead end. Whatever high-sounding rhetoric the DPP authorities try to use, it cannot cover up their malicious attempt to tie Taiwan residents to the war chariot of "Taiwan independence"; it cannot change the fact that "Taiwan independence" elements are doomed to failure; and it cannot stop the irreversible trend of reunification of China.

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UN rights chief slammed for not acknowledging Uyghurs on genocide convention anniversary

Observers dismiss his statement as 'useless' and 'hypocritical.'

By RFA Uyghur 2023.12.05 -- On the 75th anniversary of the U.N. convention on genocide, the international body's human rights chief called on the global community to hold perpetrators accountable, but was slammed for failing to condemn the situation facing Uyghurs in northwestern China.

"Genocide is never unleashed without warning," Volker Turk, the U.N.'s High Commissioner for Human Rights, said in a statement. "It is always the culmination of preceding and identifiable patterns of systematic discrimination - based on race, ethnicity, religion or other characteristics - and of gross human rights violations, targeted as a matter of policy against a people; minority; community."

In the statement, Turk referenced past examples of genocide, including during the Holocaust, and in Cambodia, Rwanda, and Yugoslavia.

Those who monitor the Uyghur situation in China's Xinjiang - many of whom say genocide is occurring in the region - took to social media on Tuesday to voice disappointment that Turk did not mention Xinjiang at all, despite what they call obvious warning signs.

At least 1.8 million Uyghurs and other Turkic minorities are believed to have been held in a network of detention camps in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region since 2017.

Beijing has said that the camps are vocational training centers. The government has denied widespread allegations that it has tortured people in the camps or mistreated other Muslims living in Xinjiang. The U.S. government, and several Western parliaments have declared the Chinese government's actions toward the Uyghurs as genocide or crimes against humanity.

"Volker Turk's statement means little when people in powerful positions like him are not prepared to act over a well-documented and publicized genocide happening against the Uyghur people, recognized by free parliaments and by tribunal," Rahima Mahmut, the U.K. Director for the World Uyghur Congress told RFA Uyghur. " I personally find it disgraceful how so many people rightly acting against other atrocities are silent on China."

Donald Clake, a law professor at the George Washington University, said in a tweet on X, formerly Twitter, "@volker_turk Could you specify where, in your opinion, genocide is occurring? These abstract pronouncements are useless against real crimes."

Emma Reilly, a former U.N. staffer who was fired after whistleblowing on the U.N. for handing the names of Uyghur activists to the Chinese government, criticized Turk on X for not taking any concrete action at the U.N.

"@volker_turk is a hypocrite," she said. "@UNHumanRights is complicit in #UyghurGenocide by handing names to #Beijing; @UN defends that policy in court; All evidence shows it continues; @UN has never investigated."

Rushan Abbas, the executive director of the Campaign for Uyghurs, used Turk's own words to criticize his statement.

"Genocide is never unleashed without warning, and can only continue through repeated denial," Rushan Abbas said. "The Chinese Communist Party is carrying out full-fledged genocide against Uyghurs, and spends billions to deceive the world. It is up to all of us to stand on the side of truth."

Zumretay Erkin, director of global advocacy for the World Uyghur Congress, told RFA that Turk's statement highlighted the importance of urgent action to stop genocide.

"The 75th anniversary of the Genocide Convention as well as the 75th year of the UN Declaration for Human Rights should be the opportunity for this office to take meaningful action on the Uyghur genocide, such as calling on China to stop the ongoing Uyghur genocide and release all the Uyghurs detained in concentration camps," said Erkin.

RFA attempted to contact the Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights but received no response.

Edited by Eugene Whong.

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 December not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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China's Credit Outlook 'Negative' as World's Second-Largest Economy Slows, Moody Says

Sputnik News

20231205

Fantine Gardinier

Credit rating agency Moody's downgraded its outlook for the Chinese government's credit on Tuesday, the first time it was rated as "negative" since 2017.

Moody's said its decision "reflects rising evidence that financial support will be provided by the government and wider public sector to financially stressed regional and local governments and state-owned enterprises."

The agency said this was "posing broad downside risks to China's fiscal, economic and institutional strength" and that its decision "reflects the increased risks related to structurally and persistently lower medium-term economic growth and the ongoing downsizing of the property sector."

The Chinese economy has been steadily slowing since before 2020, when it was subjected to the convulsions of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns just as Chinese regulators cracked down on excessive real estate borrowing in response to a series of large-scale debt defaults by property developers. The US-directed trade war with China, which has targeted broad swaths of its economy including the tech field and exports from Xinjiang, has also left its mark.

The Chinese Ministry of Finance said it was "disappointed" with Moody's decision, noting the country's economy has already recovered from its nadir.

"Since the beginning of this year, in the face of the complex and harsh international situations, and against the background of an unstable global economic recovery and weakening momentum, China's macro economy has continued to recover and has been advancing steadily," the ministry said.

Moody's said it expects China's economy to grow at 4% each in 2024 and 2025, then decline slightly to 3.8% until 2030, when it expects the Chinese economy to slow to 3.5% growth. The agency said "weaker demographics" caused by an aging population will require "substantial and coordinated reforms" to help the country maintain its consumer spending and higher value-added manufacturing.

The agency's numbers are considerably below other estimates for Chinese growth in the coming years. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) projected last month for China's gross domestic product to grow by 4.7% next year and 4.2% in 2025 "on the back of ongoing stresses in the real estate sector and continued high household saving rates." The International Monetary Fund (IMF) said recently it expects China's GDP to grow by 4.6% in 2024 and 4.2% in 2025. Goldman Sachs said on Tuesday it expects China's GDP to grow by 5% next year.

Within China, which has a planned socialist economy with a large private capitalist sector, government planners are expecting a target of between 4.5% and 5.5% for 2024, although the final details will be worked out at the Communist Party's annual Central Economic Work Conference later this month.

"We need to adopt expansionary fiscal and monetary policy to stimulate aggregate demand," one Chinese government economist told US media. "Corporate investment demand will not be strong as the confidence of companies has not recovered, so we need to expand infrastructure investment."

A Sputnik

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China Holds Naval Drills in South China Sea From December 5-6

Sputnik News

20231205

BEIJING (Sputnik) - The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) is holding a military exercise in the South China Sea from December 5-6, the China Maritime Safety Administration announced on Tuesday.

The maritime drills began at 11:00 a.m. local time (03:00 GMT) on Tuesday and will run through 5:00 p.m. (09:00 GMT) on December 6, the administration said.

The maritime safety department has provided the coordinates of the exercise area, which will be off-limits for the duration of the drills.

No other details were disclosed.

A Sputnik

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EU, China Hold Summit in Beijing Amid Deepening Rift

By William Yang December 05, 2023

Officials from the European Union and China will hold their first in-person summit since 2019 this week, with leaders from both sides expecting to exchange views on strategic and global economic issues.

Some experts say a focus of the one-day summit on December 7 will be "de-risking," which relates to the EU's current effort to reduce reliance on China in key sectors.

"Brussels wants to show that they have new policy tools to get serious with de-risking, while the key objective for China is to try to hinder the EU's progress on implementing policies related to de-risking," Grzegorz Stec, an analyst at the Brussels office of the Mercator Institute for China Studies, or MERICS, told VOA.

The summit comes amid a deepening rift between the two sides, as the EU hopes to level the playing field in trade while Beijing tries to highlight the need to maintain bilateral cooperation. It follows a series of high-level dialogues, including a visit to Beijing by the EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, in October.

With the EU and China both trying to safeguard their interests, some analysts say expectations for the summit's outcome should be low.

"It's like they are driving on two opposite lanes and there is very little common ground between both sides' talking points," Sari Arho HavrAn, an associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, told VOA by phone.

During a keynote speech at a conference in Berlin last month, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen doubled down on the need for the EU to investigate Beijing's state subsidies for the electric vehicle industry. Carmakers in Europe have expressed concern over China's abundant supply of subsized electric vehicles, which can be sold at cheaper prices in global markets.

"[The overcapacity] will worsen as China's economy slows down, and its domestic demand does not pick up," she said, adding that it would worsen distortion in the EU market, which Brussels couldn't accept. "Europe is open for competition. Not for a race to the bottom."

Dividing Europe

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, meanwhile, is calling for greater China-EU cooperation.

"China and the EU have different views on international and regional issues, and only by adhering to communication and coordination can we play a constructive role in maintaining world peace and stability and addressing global challenges," he said during a meeting with EU diplomatic envoys on Monday.

Before the summit, China announced it would temporarily offer visa-free entry to citizens from five European countries a France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands. Additionally, Lithuania said last week that Beijing had lifted trade barriers imposed on Lithuanian goods.

Stec from Merics said Beijing is trying to stabilize its relationship with the EU by adopting strategic stalling measures such as the visa-free entry, which he thinks is an attempt to divide EU member states.

"This is not a major concession made by China," he told VOA, adding that domestic economic pressure is pushing Beijing to boost business exchanges and tourism with the EU. These measures, however, fail to address the EU's fundamental concerns.

Recognizing rivalry

The bloc is also expected to highlight China's more assertive military posture in the Indo-Pacific region, which von der Leyen said is affecting the EU's global interests.

"We must also recognize that China's views on the 'global security architecture' are not by default aligned with ours," von der Leyen said. "Our own supply chains and trade routes are at stake."

While the EU "must recognize that there is an explicit element of rivalry" in its relationship with China, von der Leyen said Brussels needs to ensure the rivalry is constructive rather than hostile. "Cooperation with China on global issues is possible and is happening," she said.

But as China remains an important strategic partner for Russia in its war against Ukraine, the EU is expected to push Chinese leader Xi Jinping to act against 13 Chinese companies accused of bypassing sanctions on Russia, according to Hong Kong's South China Morning Post.

Since the EU views Beijing's policies in several areas as harmful to the bloc's interests, some analysts said von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel will focus on defending Brussels' interests at the summit.

"The EU feels that China is taking advantage of its openness, so it wants to prioritize addressing this problem rather than reaching consensus with Beijing on key global issues like climate change," Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy, an expert on EU-China relations at the National Dong Hwa University in Taiwan, told VOA by phone.

During a daily press briefing Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said China and the EU "are partners, not rivals" and that their common interests "far outweigh" their differences.

As it looks unlikely that the EU and China will produce substantial, concrete results through the summit, Stec thinks the general trend in EU-China relations is moving from setting up positive cooperation to damage control.

"The EU has been trying to address structural issues in its relationship with China for years, but there hasn't been a big push to address those issues from the Chinese side," he told VOA.

"If the Chinese side is not willing to budge now and start a constructive discussion, the current European Commission may decide to make more active use of defensive policy instruments the EU now has at its disposal."

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Transcript of Special Briefing on the State Visit of the President of Kenya to India (December 05, 2023)

India - Ministry of External Affairs

December 05, 2023

Shri Arindam Bagchi, Official Spokesperson: A very good afternoon to all of you. Thank you for joining us for this Special Media Briefing on the occasion of the State visit of the President of the Republic of Kenya, His Excellency Mr. William Samoei Ruto, who has just finished his discussions with the Prime Minister a few minutes ago. To give us a sense of the conversation and the overall visit, we have the pleasure of having with us here Shri Dammu Ravi Sir, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs. Also joining us on the dais, Additional Secretary (East and Southern Africa) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Shri Puneet Kundal, as well as Smt. Namgya Khampa, our High Commissioner in Nairobi. Sir, may I invite you to for your opening remarks and then we'll take a few questions.

Shri Dammu Ravi, Secretary (ER): Thank you, Arindam, and good afternoon to all of you. President of the Republic of Kenya is visiting India on a State visit from 4th to 6th December. This is his first visit to India since he assumed office last year. And earlier on, the President of Kenya, the previous one, visited India, Uhuru Kenyatta, in 2017, January. Honorable Prime Minister Modi visited Kenya in July 2016. Honorable Speaker of Lok Sabha also visited Kenya earlier January this year. And our Foreign Minister, External Affairs Minister, visited Kenya in June 2021 for the Joint Commission meeting.

I would like to first emphasize on the importance of the visit, setting the context. This visit is taking place post the successful India's G20 Presidency, wherein India brought in the African Union membership, the permanent membership of the G20, which has been appreciated by the President William Ruto, and thanked Prime Minister for his personal efforts in bringing convergence and working with others to bring African Union into the fold of G20. The visit is also happening after the successful Voice of the Global South Summit, in which President Ruto participated in November, last month.

Let me also emphasize that the relationship between India and Kenya are on sound footing. They are age-old, they are both littoral States, Indian ocean which connects them, people-to-people contacts and trade have been extremely robust for many centuries. And the relationship are also strengthened through the institutional framework that the two countries have established, one is Foreign Office Consultations, the Joint Commission Meeting, the Joint Trade Committee Meetings. These institutional arrangements, the regular meetings take place between the two countries.

We also have a very robust development partnership with Kenya. Kenya is one of our very strong partner in Africa in the development partnership. The lines of credit have been well utilized, over about 100 million for the last three projects in recent times. The ITEC slots also have been very well utilized. India provides about 250 scholarships, ITEC slots every year, 50 defence slots, and about 48 ICCR scholarships. And several Kenyan students study in India, about 2,000 of them. Education is a very important area of cooperation between the two countries. In the field of trade and investment, again, it's been quite encouraging. The bilateral trade is about $3.3 billion. Significant part of it is India's exports there. Kenya imports about 116 million. And the investments from India's side is about $3.2 billion. About 200 Indian companies are actively present in Kenya.

During the delegation-level talks with Honorable Prime Minister and President Ruto, several interesting ideas of cooperation have come up, one of which is the digital public infrastructure. In this area, the Kenyan side expressed interest to learn from India in several areas, particularly in the fintech space, the UPI, the Aadhaar. And in health space, they have expressed interest to also have greater cooperation, particularly to have Indian specialist doctors visiting their country. And in turn, they would like to also have longer duration stay for their specialists and nurses, medical doctors to come to India to learn from us. Traditional medicine also figured very strongly in the bilateral talks. Kenya is very keen to have cooperation in the pharma. President himself said that about 70% of the sourcing of pharmaceutical medicines are from India. So they would like to have greater collaborations in medicine, pharma, vaccines, and genome technologies.

Agriculture cooperation is another area which strongly figured in the talks, particularly cooperatives; how both sides can share their understanding of the cooperatives and their use, particularly in the rural areas, the banking sector, and agriculture machinery. Interestingly, the Kenyan side has expressed interest to offer to India agriculture farming land for farming purposes, to be able to encourage Indian companies to go there and do farming. Education is another area. The Open universities of both sides, IGNOU and Kenyan Open University have entered into an MoU. Space is another area of cooperation. So this is broadly the areas in which the two sides have discussed.

There are several MoUs which have been concluded today, which is...I have the list. And I think the Joint Statement will come out with more details here. The MoU in cultural exchange program; MoU for sports; Sharing of the successful digital solutions, digital transformation; and Bureau of Indian Standards and the Bureau of Standards of Kenya; then IGNOU and the Open University of Kenya. So these are the five MoUs that have been signed.

Besides, there have also been other announcements. For example, you have the line of credit to enhance from the existing $100 million to $250 million for the agriculture modernization of Kenya; and the customized training program for 20 space scientists of Kenya Space Agency, which will be run by ISRO; and geospatial information portal for Kenya, which India will be developing for them. And then the last but not least is that Kenyan government expressed interest to join the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuels Alliance. As you all know, Kenya and India are the founding members of the International Big Cat Alliance, and both have agreed to deepen cooperation in this area.

Both sides have also issued the India-Kenya Joint Vision Statement on maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean region, and this is one of the important outcomes of this meeting. The defence cooperation has always been strong, and their Defence Minister visited last August. And there is an ongoing defence cooperation, which includes maritime cooperation, hydrography, etc.

In terms of the program, later this afternoon, there will be India-Kenya Business and Investment Forum, which the President will address; and there will be interaction with the Indian businesses on many areas. Several one-to-one meetings have been scheduled; yesterday, today and tomorrow, the President will be meeting with the Indian business leaders.

So, the visit of President William Ruto is expected to give further impetus to our bilateral relationship and promote economic linkages between our two countries, including greater Indian investment flow into Kenya. Thank you, if you have any question, I will be happy to take it.

Shri Arindam Bagchi, Official Spokesperson: Thank you. We'll open the floor. Please introduce yourself and the organization that you represent.

Sahil: Sir I'm Sahil from ANI. You touched upon the maritime cooperation, Sir. Can you elaborate on that, Sir, how India and Kenya can work together?

Huma Siddiqui: Sir, I'm Huma Siddiqui from the Financial Express. You talked about the defence cooperation, space and agriculture. I just want to understand, in agriculture, they're talking about contract farming. Is that correct? Because the Kenyans are looking for machinery and technology in the agri sector. And in the space, they're looking for nano-satellite. They want to build nano-satellite, and they're looking for help from India. Was this discussed?

Rishabh: Hello, Sir. Good afternoon. Rishabh from Times Now. Sir $250 million credit line for the agriculture to Kenya. Was mobility also discussed for people-to-people contact, if the mobility factor between India and Kenya discussed?

Kadambini Sharma: Kadambini Sharma from NDTV. You talked about Big Cat Alliance to deepen cooperation on that. Is there any program of getting more cheetahs from there?

Meghna: Sir Meghna from DD News. Sir I wanted to know if there were talks on businesses in the medical sector who have expressed interest in opening up hospitals in Kenya. Any such talks that have figured out, that have been there?

Shri Dammu Ravi, Secretary (ER): High Commissioner is also here, can supplement just in case to elaborate on it. See, on the maritime cooperation, it's already an ongoing activity between our two countries. I think, both countries are the littoral states of Indian Ocean. So there is concern about the piracy and movement of ships and the safety of the navigation line. So there is that common interest there to cooperate. And it's ongoing. The hydrographic surveys have also been part of the cooperation. And this has been going on for some time.

So the capacity building for the defense personnel, I think that's one item, we have been doing it. And that's again came up in the discussion today to further deepen in that area. They have been regularly participating in the Defence Expo. So I think in a broader sense, this is going to deepen in the days to come.

In terms of the agriculture cooperation, yes, I think this is where the Kenyan President has expressed interest to deepen cooperation, learn from us, particularly how in the rural areas the farming through the agricultural cooperative methods and those linkages, how they can learn from us. I think this is an area of interest, and supplementing and complementing that activity is actually agriculture farming. So they are willing to provide large tracts of land for Indian entrepreneurs to do agriculture farming in many areas, crops that Africa needs, not just for Kenya, including millets. It's a very nascent area. We'll have to see how our entrepreneurs can be encouraged to go to Africa to do this. And part of this, $250 million is actually for agriculture machinery. Again, as a policy about the development partnership, it is the recipient country which will decide how they want to utilize it. We will give them sufficient space and freedom to utilize it. But what came out very clearly is that they would like to use it for agriculture, agriculture machinery, tools and many things that may come out in that.

So in the medical, hospitals, in particular, it specifically has not come. But as you know, that medical tourism, according to the President, 90% of the medical travel, outbound medical travel is to India. So India is a very large pool. It attracts patients from Kenya. And now they want to deepen this relationship. They want to also develop capacities in the medical area in Kenya with the help of Indian specialists. So they want to give longer duration of stay for Indian specialists to go there and work, train their manpower as well. At the same time, they also like to have exchanges, bring their specialists to India and train them on a longer duration stay. I'm sure this kind of deeper activities, cooperation will lead to setting up of medical hospitals or institutions in future. But specifically, medical hospital setting has not figured in today's talks. But I guess it will be one of the areas, spin-off from these talks.

So the cheetas today is...I think, my colleague, Additional Secretary, tells me that Ministry of Environment and Forest has expressed interest. But this interest came only today. So we'll have to take it up to them and pass on this request to them to see if there is a possibility for cooperation in that area. Anything you want to add, High Commissioner?

Ms. Namgya Khampa, High Commissioner of India to Kenya: If I can just supplement, just coming to the Maritime Vision Statement that both sides released today, the Joint Maritime Vision Statement is really a recognition that as Indian Ocean littoral states, maritime exchanges and the maritime space has been a key part of our past, but also our future cooperation. And so we're looking at pillars under economic and connectivity exchanges. We're looking at maritime security and Secretary referred to counter-terrorism, piracy, threats and challenges from the maritime domain that we can work on together with Kenya. We're looking at capacity building. And we're also looking at this entire bucket of issues around blue economy. And there's a lot of convergence in how we can progress on fleshing out these ideas. And the Joint Maritime Vision Statement, in a sense, provides us a blueprint to take it forward.

Sidhant: Hi Sir, Sidhant from WION. Any conversation on trading in the national currencies, something that we have been focusing on?

Abhishek Jha: This is Abhishek Jha from CNN News18. Just a question. Did the talk of Zulfiqar Ahmed, the missing Indian in Kenya, was also raised because he's been missing and there are claims that he's been killed, but officially it has not been announced.

Shri Arindam Bagchi, Official Spokesperson: Two people?

Abhishek Jha: Two people. So was the issue discussed, and if you could update us on the case, on the probe?

Manas: Manas from PTI. I just want to know, Sir, in fact, in the digital space, particular DPI, what kind of cooperation we're looking at or what is the Kenyan side's interest on that?

Kallol: This is Kallol from the Hindu. This is about the Zulfiqar Ahmed Khan case. I mean, I understand the High Commissioner had met some of the officials last year when this case was unfolding and there was some forensic material that were also shared with the Indian authorities, if I'm right. So if you could just give us a sense of what you really saw. And what about this outlawed intelligence agency that was also reportedly involved in the...

Shri Arindam Bagchi, Official Spokesperson: No, sorry, please address the question to in general. It's not just her. And what do you mean, what do you saw? She went and met people....who?

Kallol: I understand some details of the forensic materials were shared.

Chandrakala: This is Chandrakala from ETV Bharat. Sir, I have a question related to, of course, there has been a special mention on Africa's critical role on India's Indo-Pacific strategies and also the Prime Minister has mentioned it during his statement today. If you could just tell us how has been the cooperation when it comes to the Indo-Pacific between India and Africa.

Sandhya: Sir Sandhya from ET. Sir, just want to get a sense on the geospatial technology that India is developing and are there any private players that India is involving in that? Thanks.

Shri Dammu Ravi, Secretary (ER): Thank you very much. So, there's a whole lot of questions. So, I'll try and see how much I can answer or else, then rest my colleagues can answer, supplement.

So, one is the first question you'd asked about the national currency. This is, again, a big interest for Kenya. They have very clearly expressed interest to learn from us, want this collaboration between the two countries. So, linking that aspect and Prime Minister mentioned about the UPI, the FinTech Solutions and how India successfully introduced it, and we have introduced it to many countries. So, that one came up very strongly and they want to have a meeting with our authorities and we will be facilitating that today, tomorrow perhaps, with the concerned line ministries and departments; both also in the Direct, Indirect tax area where they want to learn from us, the UPI, FinTech Solutions and the direct cash benefits. So, how that has helped in bringing in efficiencies in governance and eliminating corruption and leakages. This discussion was very strong and there is a keen interest in both sides to take this forward.

The issue about missing Indians did come up. As you know that this has been there for quite some time. The authorities on both sides have been in contact with each other and information was being shared between the two sides. But at this point of time, we should not speculate because the investigation is ongoing. It's a subjudice matter in the courts of Kenya. So, perhaps if High Commissioner has more information, specifically, I'll ask her to supplement it. But this did come up. And we will have to wait and see how things will reveal in the days to come.

So, next is about the Africa, Indo-Pacific strategy. As you know, this is an area where Indo-Pacific region includes even Africa because many countries in Africa are the littoral states of Indian Ocean region. So, there is interest about the navigation, the freedom of navigation, the piracy issue, the terrorism issues. So, in the broader context, Africa figures very strongly in the strategy and we are looking at enhancing this cooperation in the days to come.

I'd like to request if Additional Secretary has something to add on the other aspects which I might have missed out and High Commissioner.

Ms. Namgya Khampa, High Commissioner of India to Kenya: On the two missing Indians, I think Secretary has already captured it succinctly. So, I have nothing further to add other than to say that the High Commission continues to monitor these developments and continues to be engaged with the authorities in Kenya on this matter.

On the digital space, our friend somewhere here asked us this question. The way I want to frame this is that in Kenya's domestic agenda, digital transformation has been taken up by the current government, that has been in power for one year. And they see India as a very relevant reference point and as a partner in their digital transformation journey. So, today we concluded a MoU on DPI, Digital Public Infrastructure. And there has been a lot of exchanges already under this particular sector prior to the visit as well. And there will continue to be after this visit in follow up. And we're looking at things like how digital technologies and digital public infrastructure can help transform healthcare, can help transform delivery of government services. The kind of things and transformation we've seen in India riding on the digital wave, and I think Kenya really wants to absorb that as best as they can and that figured in the conversations today. And that certainly is part of the interest that they have conveyed in clear terms to us today.

On the space cooperation issue, madam, we are at the moment at a phase where there's a conversation going on between the Kenya Space Agency and our space authorities. And specifically under the rubric of this visit, what has been agreed to, is capacity building. So, there are going to be training opportunities offered to Kenyan space scientists as well as developing a geospatial portal for them. The details of that conversation are something that are developing between the two space agencies and they will be available in the coming days.

Shri Arindam Bagchi, Official Spokesperson: Thank you, we will close with that. My thanks to Secretary, Dammu Ravi; to the Additional Secretary; and to High Commissioner, Namgya Khampa. Thank you all for joining. Good afternoon.

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Indian Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Vessel Sajag makes port call at Dammam, Saudi Arabia

India - Press Information Bureau

Ministry of Defence

Posted On: 05 DEC 2023 6:59PM by PIB Delhi

Indian Coast Guard Ship Sajag, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, made port call at King Abdul Aziz Port, AD Dammam, Saudi Arabia on 05 Dec 2023 on a three day visit. The visit aims to strengthen long standing diplomatic ties and enhance cooperative engagements with the Saudi Border Guards and Saudi Naval Forces personnel towards professional exchange/interactions such as training on Vessel Board Search & Seizure (VBSS), Maritime Search & Rescue (M-SAR), cross-deck visits, Table Top Exercise on Marine Pollution Response (MPR).

The visit envisages Courtesy Calls by the Ship's Commanding Officer to various dignitaries and Government Officials of Saudi Arabia besides showcasing India's shipbuilding capabilities and indigenous technology of advancement in weapons & sensors demonstrating the multi-faceted capabilities of the ICG Surface Platform.

This visit aims to strengthen bilateral relationships with the key maritime agencies namely the Saudi Border Guards and Saudi Naval Forces. These professional association, developed over the years, objectify to ensuring maritime safety and security in the region while addressing contemporary issues and challenges in the common domain and advocacy of rule based order at sea.

The overseas deployment of ICG Ship Sajag aligns with the Government's plan to foster bilateral relationships and strengthen international cooperation with the Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs). During this ongoing West Asia deployment, the ship earlier made port calls to Port Sultan Qaboos, Oman and will be making port of call to Mina Rashid, UAE in the later part of deployment.

The visit of ICGS Sajag to West Asia accentuates India's warm and cordial relations with Gulf counties and further reiterate to foster friendly relations through maritime cooperation in consonance with the maritime vision of India "SAGAR - Security and Growth for All in the Region".

ICG Ship Sajag is part of the Indian Coast Guard fleet of OPVs, based on the West Coast of India in Porbandar, Gujarat, and operates under the operational command of Commander Coast Guard Region (North West). The ship is equipped with modern weapon systems, sensors, state-of-the-art navigation and communication systems, including an integral helicopter to support both surface and air operations. Sajag has undertaken myriad of Coast Guard operations ranging from Coastal Security and IMBL/ EEZ surveillance, anti-transnational crimes, and Maritime SAR and Pollution Response operations in the past.

ABB/Anand



(Release ID: 1982837)

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Gunmen kill head of right-wing group in India's Rajasthan

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 09:47, December 06, 2023

NEW DELHI, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- Unidentified gunmen on Tuesday shot dead Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, the head of a right-wing fringe group Karni Sena, and wounded two others in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, police said.

According to police, the gunmen fired upon Gogamedi from a point-blank range at his house in the provincial capital Jaipur. In the attack, two men, including Gogamedi's security guard, suffered bullet wounds.

The trio was immediately rushed to a hospital, where doctors declared Gogamedi dead on arrival. The other two are undergoing treatment at the hospital.

"Today we received information that Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi was shot dead by unidentified criminals in Jaipur," a police official said. "Our teams immediately rushed to the spot to carry out the investigation."

Closed-circuit television camera footage obtained from the house showed two men firing multiple shots at Gogamedi, with his guard standing at the door and another person sitting in the room.

Police said the footage at the house was being checked to identify the assailants.

Federal Minister of Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat told the media killers of Gogamedi would not be spared.

"He wasn't given adequate security even after he reported about threats to his life to the police," Shekhawat said. "I appeal to the public to maintain peace and assure you that those involved in this incident will not be spared."

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Iran, Russia sign joint statement to counter US sanctions

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Dec 5, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- The foreign ministers of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Russian Federation have signed a joint statement at the conclusion of the annual summit of foreign ministers of the Caspian Sea littoral states.

The statement issued on Tuesday outlines cooperation efforts to counter and offset the adverse effects of coercive measures by the West, especially sanctions imposed by the United States on both Iran and Russia.

The joint declaration was signed by Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, following both private and public sessions of the summit in Moscow.

After signing the statement, the foreign ministers held talks aimed at further developing bilateral relations.

Lavrov pointed out that this was the sixth time he was meeting with his Iranian counterpart this year, and reiterated the commitment of both sides to advance bilateral ties.

The 12th annual meeting of foreign ministers from Caspian Sea littoral states took place on Tuesday in Moscow, with the participation of senior diplomats from five neighboring countries.

The summit aimed to foster regional cooperation and address shared challenges among the Caspian Sea littoral states.

4353**2050

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Iran rejects 'baseless' allegations by Israel, US, UK

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Dec 5, 2023

New York, IRNA -- Iran has strongly rejected the "baseless" allegations by the Zionist regime, the US, and the UK against Tehran over its role in the current situation in West Asia.

Amir Saeid Iravani, Iran's permanent representative to the United Nations, said in a Monday letter addressed to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and UN Security Council President JosA de la Gasca Lopezdominguez that Tehran categorically rejects the "baseless allegations" and "unwarranted references" made against the Islamic Republic in a letter dated 13 November 2023 from the representative of the Zionist regime addressed to the president of the Security Council.

The Zionist regime sought to "justify and cover up its ongoing violations of UNSCR 1559 (2004) and 1701 (2006), its genocidal aggression against the innocent people of Palestine in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, and its disruptive, vicious, and terrorist actions in the region," he wrote.

"Accordingly, its endeavors to shift blame onto Iran are entirely unfounded and lack any legal basis."

He further stressed that Iran considers the Israeli regime's dissemination of unfounded allegations nothing more than a desperate attempt to sidestep its accountability for its documented war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity committed in occupied Palestine.

In another letter, Iravani dismissed the Zionist regime's letters dated November 30 to Lopezdominguez, saying that in those letters, the representative of the Israeli regime has once again "resorted to falsehoods and disseminating misinformation" to level unsubstantiated allegations against the Islamic Republic of Iran.

"I would like to emphasize that the Islamic Republic of Iran has consistently adhered to the provisions of Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015) and remains steadfast in fulfilling its obligations under the Resolution," he noted.

"It is ironic that Israel, an apartheid and occupying regime, consistently violates very basic and established norms and principles of international law, the United Nations Charter, and UN resolutions, yet accuses Iran of violating UNSC resolution 2231."

In a separate letter addressed to the president of the Security Council, the Iranian envoy strongly condemned and rejected the baseless accusations leveled by the representative of the United Kingdom against Tehran during a UN Security Council open briefing held on November 29, 2023, under the agenda item "The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question."

"Undoubtedly, the United Kingdom has certainly played a pivotal role in the prolonged suffering and distress endured by the Palestinian people. The ominous roots of this plight can be traced back to the Balfour Declaration, signaling the commencement of nearly a century of hardship for the Palestinians," he wrote.

He maintained that the UK's "unwavering" support for Israeli atrocities and genocidal aggression against the Palestinian people and regional countries diminishes its moral authority to license judgment on the intentions and policies of others.

In yet another letter addressed to Lopezdominguez, Iravani rejected the allegations made against Tehran by the permanent representative of the US to the UN dated November 28.

He made clear that Iran has not been part of any acts or attacks against US military forces in the region.

Iran regards these unfounded allegations as a deliberate attempt by the United States, the occupying State, to justify and decriminalize its persistent criminal acts of aggression and serious violations of international law and the United Nations Charter within the Syrian Arab Republic and the region.

4354**9417

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Iran, Russia FMs sign key declaration on countering unilateral sanctions

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 05 December 2023 2:44 PM

Iran and Russia have signed an agreement to make joint efforts to counter unilateral sanctions imposed on the two countries.

The agreement was signed on Tuesday by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov at the end of a meeting in Moscow.

"We have just signed a declaration on ways and means to counteract, mitigate and compensate for the negative consequences of unilateral coercive measures," Lavrov said.

The Russian minister said this was an important step to "overcome the illegal sanctions that the United States and its allies have made as a substitute for diplomacy."

The agreement has officially been titled the Declaration of the Russian Federation and the Islamic Republic of Iran on ways and means of countering, softening and compensation of negative consequences of unilateral coercion measures, according to a report by Russia's state-run TASS news agency.

It came after the two ministers and their counterparts from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan attended a regular forum of Caspian Sea littoral states.

Iran and Russia have already made joint efforts to reduce the impacts of Western sanctions on their economies.

The cooperation increased in early 2022 when the United States and its allies imposed a raft of sanctions on Russia for its war in Ukraine.

Iran has been under US sanctions since 2018 when the then administration in Washington withdrew from an international deal on Iran's nuclear program and imposed unilateral sanctions on the country.

Tehran and Moscow have yet to announce what specific measures they would adopt as part of the declaration signed on Tuesday to counter and compensate foreign sanctions.

Before signing the document, Amir-Abdollahian and Lavrov and their accompanying delegations met at the headquarters to the Russian Foreign Ministry to discuss latest developments in bilateral and international issues, according to a report by Iran's official news agency (IRNA).

The report said a key part of the discussions was centered on joint efforts to mitigate the impacts of the ongoing conflict in Gaza where the Israeli regime is continuing with its one-sided war on the Palestinians.

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Concerns For Health Of Iranian Political Prisoner Rise Amid Hunger Strike

By RFE/RL's Radio Farda December 05, 2023

Iranian political prisoners Sepideh Gholian and Mahboubeh Rezaei, incarcerated in Tehran's notorious Evin prison, have warned about the deteriorating health of fellow inmate Zahra Sarv, who has been on a hunger strike since early December to protest against the harsh treatment and injustices she has faced since her arrest in October 2021.

The plight of Sarv, detailed in a letter obtained by RFE/RL's Radio Farda, outlines a pattern of disregard for prisoner rights within the Iranian judicial system.

Despite having served one-third of her sentence, Sarv's conditional release has been repeatedly denied, reportedly due to the objections of her case interrogator.

The situation has reached a critical point, with Sarv being compelled to endure a 6 1/2-year sentence handed to her by Branch 26 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court on charges of "conspiracy and collusion to act against national security" and "propaganda against the system."

Throughout the legal proceedings, she and her lawyer were denied access to her case file.

Gholian and Rezaei, who have themselves been subject to harsh treatment in prison, have voiced their despair at witnessing Sarv's state of health and well-being decline rapidly in recent days.

Sarv, who says she has been denied proper medical attention even though she suffers from gastrointestinal problems, has gone on hunger strikes several times in the past to protest against her lack of rights and mistreatment.

Unrest has rattled Iran since last summer in response to declining living standards, wage arrears, and a lack of insurance support. Labor law in Iran does not recognize the right of workers to form independent unions.

Adding to the dissent, the September 2022 death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini while in police custody for allegedly wearing a head scarf improperly breathed new life into demonstrations, which officials across the country have since tried to quell with harsh measures.

The activist HRANA news agency said that more than 500 people have been killed during the unrest, including 71 minors, as security forces try to stifle widespread dissent.

Thousands have been arrested in the clampdown, with the judiciary handing out harsh sentences -- including the death penalty -- to protesters.

Written by Ardeshir Tayebi based on an original story in Persian by RFE/RL's Radio Farda

Source:

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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Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks at a meeting with Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, Moscow, December 5, 2023

5 December 2023 15:47

2472-05-12-2023

Mr Minister, Colleagues!

We are happy to see you in Moscow. This is our sixth meeting in 2023. This fact shows the intensity of the Russian-Iranian agenda and the invariable relevance of a regular exchange of views.

I would like to congratulate you and the people and leaders of Iran on some important events - an invitation to join BRICS and accession to the SCO as a full- member. Russia was among the countries that actively facilitated a positive review of Iran's applications.

Our countries are developing interaction in all key areas. Presidents Vladimir Putin and Ebrahim Raisi maintain constant contact and regularly speak by telephone. On May 17, the two countries launched the Rasht-Astara Railway project via videoconference. We are paying priority attention to increasing the potential of the North-South International Transport Corridor and mutually beneficial energy cooperation.

Our countries are continuously cooperating at different levels. Last October, Prime Minister of Russia Mikhail Mishustin held a productive discussion with First Vice President of Iran Mohammad Mokhber in Bishkek, while the co-chairs of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation, Alexander Novak and Javad Owji, met in Moscow last October. Our departments are also permanently in touch with each other. Now we are completing the drafting of a new large interstate treaty.

We signed a declaration on the ways and tools of countering, alleviating and compensating for the negative consequences of unilateral coercive measures. This is

important for pooling the efforts of the international community to overcome the illegal sanctions with which the US and its allies have replaced diplomacy.

We will exchange views on urgent bilateral and international issues. We have a busy agenda as is our tradition.

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PM call with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel: 5 December 2023

The Prime Minister spoke to Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu this afternoon.

5 December 2023

The Prime Minister spoke to Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu this afternoon. He expressed disappointment about the breakdown of the pause in fighting in Gaza, which had allowed hostages to be released. The leaders discussed urgent efforts to ensure all remaining hostages are safely freed and to allow any remaining British nationals in Gaza to leave.

The Prime Minister offered an update on his engagement with leaders in the Middle East and reiterated his public remarks in the region last week, stressing the need for Israel to take greater care to protect civilians in Gaza and focus narrowly on military targets.

The Prime Minister said more humanitarian aid had to be allowed to enter Gaza, where civilians were in desperate need. He reiterated offers of practical UK support to facilitate deliveries of life-saving aid. He noted the pressure on the Rafah crossing point and pressed the need to explore other routes into Gaza, including via Kerem Shalom.

The leaders shared their concerns about increasing attacks by Houthi militants, supported by Iran, against commercial shipping vessels in the Red Sea. The Prime Minister stressed the UK's commitment to freedom of navigation and highlighted the deployment this week of HMS Diamond, a Royal Navy Type 45 Destroyer, to bolster deterrence in the region and keep trade routes flowing. He also said the UK would continue to support efforts to de-escalate tensions and address the threat on Israel's northern border with Lebanon.

Finally, the Prime Minister welcomed commitments to address extremist settler violence and intimidation, which was destabilising the situation in the West Bank.

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Readout of National Security Advisor to the Vice President Phil Gordon's Trip to Israel

December 05, 2023

Following the Vice President's meetings with Arab leaders in Dubai on December 2, she directed her National Security Advisor, Dr. Phil Gordon, to travel to Israel December 4-5 to update Israeli officials on her meetings and continue our intensive consultations with Israel on the conflict with Hamas. Dr. Gordon will visit Ramallah, the West Bank on December 6 for meetings with senior Palestinian Authority officials. In Israel, Dr. Gordon met with President Isaac Herzog, War Cabinet Member Benny Gantz, National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi, Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer, observer in the War Cabinet Gadi Eisenkot, and opposition leader Yair Lapid.

Throughout his meetings, Dr. Gordon reiterated the Biden-Harris Administration's resolute support for Israel's right to defend itself in the face of the Hamas terrorist threat. He discussed Israeli military objectives and operations in Gaza and underscored the importance of adherence to international humanitarian law and the imperative of increased efforts to deliver humanitarian assistance and protect civilians. Dr. Gordon emphasized that Hamas is a barbaric terrorist organization and that no nation could accept the threat Hamas poses, and that we support Israel's legitimate military objectives. Dr. Gordon underscored that the Biden-Harris Administration will continue to pursue every effort to secure the release of all hostages held by Hamas terrorists, including Americans. Dr. Gordon discussed the situation in the West Bank and expressed our concern with steps that could escalate tensions, including extremist settler violence.

On day-after planning, Dr. Gordon outlined the principles that the Vice President and the Biden-Harris Administration have publicly laid out and discussed efforts on reconstruction, security, and governance in Gaza after the phase of intensive fighting ends. Dr. Gordon made clear that the Palestinian people must have a meaningful political horizon and reiterated our commitment to a two-state solution. Dr. Gordon also discussed broader dynamics in the region and U.S. efforts to deter aggression and help prevent regional escalation.

###

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High Representative/Vice-President Borrell meets with the Vice-President of Libyan Presidential Council Mousa Al-Koni

European External Action Service (EEAS)

05.12.2023

Brussels

EEAS Press Team

On 5 December, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the Commission, Josep Borrell, met in Brussels with Mousa Al-Koni, Vice President of the Presidential Council of Libya. The discussion focused on how to enhance the ongoing cooperation between the European Union and Libya on key areas, including improving migration governance and management, as well as regional cooperation between Libya and the Sahel.

During the exchange, the High Representative highlighted the importance to make progress on the political process to overcome the current situation in Libya. In this context, the HR/VP also reiterated the support of the European Union for a UN-mediated political solution, based on an inclusive dialogue among all Libyan stakeholders, and ultimately aimed at elections.

The European Union will continue to stand by the Libyan people and to support them in their aspiration to live in a stable, peaceful, and prosperous country.

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Myanmar militia arrests and shoots villagers near India border

After junta forces burned the village, the victims returned for their belongings, locals said.

By RFA Burmese 2023.12.05 -- Junta-backed Pyu Saw Htee militia members shot four villagers on the Myanmar-India border, locals told Radio Free Asia.

Over the course of two days, soldiers raided the village in Sagaing region's Tamu township, burning down houses and a Christian church, residents of Htan Ta Pin said. They also arrested roughly 100 locals and later released them.

"We have been fleeing from the village for a long time. The rest of the villagers, about a hundred, were taken to [the military's] Four Mile Camp by the Pyu Saw Htee group," said one villager, declining to be named for security reasons. "Villagers were sent to Tamu from there. Detainees were released in Tamu."

Some of the released villagers went back to check on their houses and gather the remainder of their belongings, he added.

"Four villagers were shot dead when they came across Pyu Saw Htee members at the village," he said. "The village was torched on Sunday and Monday. I can see the smoke from a distance."

The identity of the four victims could not be confirmed by residents, as they have not been able to return due to the militia's continued presence. RFA could also not confirm the extent of the fire damage, as villagers have fled.

RFA reached out to Sagaing region's junta spokesperson Sai Naing Naing Kyaw for more information on the attacks, but he did not answer calls.

Nearly all Htan Ta Pin residents have sheltered near the Indian border, locals said. Those released from junta custody have fled to churches or relatives' homes in Tamu township.

Htan Ta Pin village has fewer than 300 houses and is roughly 1.6 kilometers (one mile) from the Indian border. Fighting between local defense groups and Pyu Saw Htee militia in Htan Ta Pin on Nov. 21 is believed to be part of the reason for the attack, locals said.

During the November battle, local defense forces killed two Pyu Saw Htee members and arrested four others. The arrested included Myint Aung, a former member of parliament for the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party and a leader of Pyu Saw Htee group.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn.

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 December 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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Pakistan Blast Injures 7, Including Children

By Sarah Zaman December 05, 2023

A roadside blast caused by a remote-controlled improvised explosive device, or IED, wounded seven people Tuesday, including four children in Peshawar, the capital of Pakistan's northern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

According to area police, a preliminary investigation of the site found that 4 kilograms of explosives were concealed in a concrete block. Images from the site show the blast shattered windows of a nearby building.

Authorities said the wounded children, aged between six and 17, have been identified as Afghan nationals. Hospital authorities said none of the injured were in school uniform, indicating that the wounded were not school children.

"I am a roadside vendor and I had just arrived at the spot when a blast happened," Javed Khan, a wounded 17-year-old who had come to sell potato chips told VOA's Deewa Service. Khan said the injured children were his relatives. Hospital authorities say one 6-year-old is in critical condition.

The area where the incident occurred just after 9 a.m. has several educational institutions nearby, including the Army Public School that terrorists attacked nine years ago, this month. Around 150 people, mostly children, were killed in that brazen attack that shocked the nation.

Speaking to media near the site of Tuesday's blast, Kashif Abbasi, a senior officer with Peshawar Police said the target was most likely a police vehicle that was on a routine patrol.

"As soon as the police mobile [patrol vehicle] drove by the site, the IED blast occurred," Abbasi said.

Nearly two months before Tuesday's attack, a similar incident in the area killed a soldier and injured six others.

So far, no group has claimed responsibility.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has seen a marked rise in terror incidents, most targeting security personnel, since the Afghan Taliban returned to power in Kabul two years ago.

Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, an ideological offshoot of the Afghan Taliban routinely claims responsibility.

Pakistan accuses Kabul's de facto government of inaction against TTP terrorists it alleges have moved their operational bases to Afghanistan. Islamabad is currently expelling hundreds of thousands of Afghan nationals residing without proper documents.

The government in Kabul denies providing safe haven to cross-border terrorists.

VOA Deewa Service stringer Usman Khan contributed to this report.

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Leader of Pakistan Ethnic Rights Group Detained

By VOA News December 05, 2023

The leader of a Pakistan ethnic group has been detained after authorities said armed men in his vehicle opened fire on police.

Raja Athar Abbas, the deputy commissioner of the northcentral city of Chaman, which sits on the border with Afghanistan, said that Manzoor Pashteen was arrested in connection with the shooting incident, as well as for violating a ban on entering Balochistan province.

Pashteen is the head and co-founder of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement, a loose network of Pashtun activists demanding equal rights and protections for minority Pashtuns in Pakistan.

The PTM issued a statement alleging Pashteen's vehicle was fired at by law enforcement agencies while he was traveling from Chaman to the nearby city of Turbat, where he was scheduled to address a protest. The statement said one woman is being treated at a hospital after she was injured in the shooting.

The PTM says Pashteen and his entourage returned to Chaman and surrendered to authorities.

Pashtuns make up about 15% to 18% of Pakistan's population, mostly in the insurgency- and counterinsurgency-stricken province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa along the porous border with Afghanistan.

Members and supporters of the PTM claim that their leaders are incarcerated, harassed and even eliminated by government forces.

Several of them have been arrested over the past two years for making incendiary remarks against state institutions.

"There is no justice for Pashtuns in Pakistan," Pashteen told VOA last year. "When we demand our rights, equal rights, and protest against this colonial-like treatment of our people, we're thrown [in]to jails indefinitely."

Some information for this report came from VOA's Akmal Dawi.

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7 injured in blast outside school in NW Pakistan

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 09:10, December 06, 2023

ISLAMABAD, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- Seven people including four children were injured in a blast outside a school in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, rescue teams said.

The incident happened in the provincial capital city of Peshawar where an improvised explosive device went off at the roadside near a school, Naveed Akhtar, district emergency officer of the state-run Rescue 1122 told Xinhua.

The injured had been shifted to Lady Reading Hospital in the city whose spokesperson Muhammad Asim told the media that two of the children were in critical condition.

Police cordoned off the area following the explosion, and an investigation is underway.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet.

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Prosecutor Seeks Almost 20 Years In Prison For Former Russian Minister Abyzov

By RFE/RL's Siberia.Realities December 05, 2023

The prosecutor at the high-profile trial of former Russian Minister for Open Government Affairs Mikhail Abyzov has asked a Moscow court to convict the defendant on corruption charges and sentence him to almost two decades in prison.

The prosecutor asked the Preobrazhensky district court on December 4 to sentence Abyzov to 19 1/2 years, and his four co-defendants, former top managers of the Novosibirsk region's energy supplying companies, to prison terms between seven and 18 1/2 years.

Abyzov was arrested in March 2019 and charged with organization of a criminal group, fraud, illegal entrepreneurship, and commercial tampering.

His co-defendants, Nikolai Stepanov, Maksim Rusakov, Galina Fainberg, and Aleksandr Pelipasov, were arrested at the same time as suspects in the case.

Abyzov was minister for open government affairs from 2012 to 2018 in the cabinet of former Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev.

He is one of several liberal-leaning former government officials in Russia who has been targeted by criminal investigations in recent years.

Abyzov's arrest was seen by some observers in Moscow as part of a crackdown by Russia's security and intelligence services against reformist politicians.

As a minister in Medvedev's cabinet, Abyzov's duties had included trying to make the Russian government more transparent and accountable.

But Russia's Investigative Committee charges that Abyzov was a member of a criminal organization that embezzled 4 billion rubles, or about $44 million, from the Siberian Energy Company and Regional Electric Grid in Novosibirsk.

Investigators allege that Abyzov and his accomplices stole the money and transferred the funds abroad. They also accused Abyzov of founding the criminal enterprise in April 2011, before he became a government minister.

Abyzov has held several executive positions at major Russian energy firms since the mid-1990s, including a role on the board of directors at the electric-power holding company Unified Energy System.

With reporting by Interfax

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-abyzov-prosecutor-20- years/32714525.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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Putin To Make Rare Trip Abroad With Visit To Middle East

By RFE/RL December 05, 2023

In a rare trip abroad as an international arrest warrant hangs over him, Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on December 6 before heading home for a meeting with Iran's president the next day.

The Kremlin said on December 5 that bilateral relations and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict will be discussed during the meetings, while issues concerning the oil market, "are also always on the agenda."

The International Criminal Court (ICC) in March issued arrest warrants for Putin and his children's commissioner, Maria Lvova-Belova, for being responsible for the deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia -- a war crime under international legislation.

While Putin did not make many foreign trips before the warrant was issued, he has curtailed his travel even more since.

He did not attend the G20 summit in India in September, and has limited his recent trips to countries such as China and states of the former Soviet Union.

With the warrant, Putin became the third serving head of state to be targeted in an arrest warrant from the ICC, the world's permanent war crimes tribunal, along with Sudan's Omar al-Bashir and Libya's Muammar Qaddafi.

The Kremlin did not give details of Putin's agenda, but the online news outlet Shot, which first reported the trip, quoted Kremlin foreign policy aide Yury Ushakov as saying the Russian leader would travel first to the U.A.E. before heading on to Saudi Arabia, where talks would include a meeting with Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman.

Putin and the prince have developed close ties over the years as they worked to form a group of leading oil producers, now known as OPEC+, in late 2016. The group has worked to support the price of oil, and last week announced voluntary supply cuts.

Following the one-day trip, Putin will return home and meet Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, the Kremlin said.

Putin visited Iran in July 2022, while Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited Tehran in October.

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.

This has raised fears 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.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-putin- uae-saudi-arabia/32714349.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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Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks during the meeting of Foreign Ministers of Caspian Littoral States, Moscow, December 5, 2023

5 December 2023 13:43

2470-05-12-2023

Colleagues,

Friends,

All participants in the meeting of Foreign Ministers of Caspian Littoral States, welcome to Moscow.

Since the Caspian region was established in its present form, nine meetings between foreign ministers have already been held. We are united in our belief that this format is becoming increasingly popular and will continue to do so. This can be explained by the fact that the work in this format makes it possible to find key solutions to regional cooperation problems.

It is significant that the Caspian theme is a priority for all of us; it is regularly discussed by the presidents and heads of state of the five Caspian nations. Cooperation in this format was given a considerable boost during the 6th Caspian Summit, held in Ashgabat in June 2022 and the 2nd Caspian Economic Forum, in Moscow, in October 2022. We hope to further strengthen this track following the 3rd Caspian Economic Forum, which is scheduled to take place in Tehran.

Today's meeting is special. We are launching a new regular ministerial dialogue that will work as part of the mandate agreed upon at the Ashgabat summit. It involves discussing the development of pentalateral cooperation, improvement of its formats, development of agreed measures to implement the decisions of the summits, and preparation of their agenda and final documents. We discussed these issues at the meeting in a narrow format. This is a useful format that allows for confidential communication. I think it will become customary.

I would like to note the enormous development potential of our region in the trade, economic, environmental, scientific, cultural, transport and transit spheres. It is of strategic importance considering the creation of the International North-South Transport Corridor.

Deepening practical cooperation between the Caspian states is also relevant in a broader sense: in the context of forming a multipolar world order and strengthening the positions of new centres of world development. The joint work of the Caspian countries makes a significant contribution to ensuring security, stability and sustainable development in the Eurasian continent.

We believe such promising areas as strengthening cultural ties, contacts between people, creating new tourist routes, expanding interaction along coastal regions, as well as infrastructure projects are very important.

I would like to separately outline serious common challenges the Caspian states are facing, such as environmental safety, shallowing of the Caspian Sea, and preservation of its biological resources. To solve these issues, we need to harmonise our actions.

According to the 2018 Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea, only our five countries have exclusive competence in solving problems related to the Caspian Sea. We consider this the cornerstone of the emerging Caspian community, a guarantee of participation in the development of the region, and responsibility for the processes taking place in it.

We can confidently say that cooperation in the Caspian Sea has reached a high level; however, additional efforts are required to improve the quality of five-party interaction and strengthen its international legal foundations. Today's meeting is dedicated to these tasks.

We have outlined a large spectrum of topics that are important in the context of implementing the decisions of the Caspian summits. We will focus on practical issues and the draft documents under consideration. We believe that the effectiveness of this work could be improved by creating a Caspian Council, a form of cooperation and dialogue without any bureaucratic schemes (like secretariats). We look forward to an interesting discussion on this initiative.

As per tradition, we will touch upon certain issues on the international agenda that relate to the Caspian region. I believe that today's meeting will contribute to promoting the position of our region as a zone of peace, harmony, neighbourliness, and fruitful interstate cooperation.

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Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Foreign Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov

5 December 2023 11:56

2469-05-12-2023

On December 5, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had a bilateral meeting with Foreign Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov on the sidelines of the meeting of the Foreign Ministers Council of the Caspian littoral states in Moscow.

The parties touched upon topical issues concerning bilateral ties and discussed further joint steps to implement the provisions of the Declaration on Allied Interaction between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Azerbaijan of February 22, 2022.

While discussing regional issues, the sides reaffirmed the need to invigorate efforts to normalise relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia in accordance with the package of top-level trilateral agreements, reached in 2020-2022.

The sides exchanged opinions on other international and regional issues of mutual interest, including cooperation within the framework of the five Caspian littoral states.



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Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks at a meeting with Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov, Moscow, December 5, 2023

5 December 2023 11:49

2468-05-12-2023

Mr Bayramov,

Friends,

We are glad to welcome you to Moscow for the meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Caspian littoral states. We are to consider ways of implementing the agreements reached by our leaders at the Caspian Summit in 2022.

While the ministers of the Caspian Five are meeting here, we would like to take this opportunity to compare notes on bilateral and regional issues. Our relations are on the rise. On October 12, 2023, the leaders of Russia and Azerbaijan spoke on the sidelines of the CIS Summit in Bishkek and confirmed our intention to deepen the alliance and strategic cooperation. The 20th anniversary meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation will take place in three days in Baku. On December 18, 2023, Prime Minister of Azerbaijan Ali Asadov will take part in a meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Government in Moscow. As per tradition, at the beginning of the holiday season later this month, meetings of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council and an informal CIS summit will take place in St Petersburg, where we hope to see (as in previous years) President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.

Russia and Azerbaijan are working on a series of major projects, such as the North-South international transport corridor and many other projects in energy and other areas of economic cooperation. We will exchange opinions on normalising Azerbaijan-Armenia relations. I would like to tell you about the progress in our contacts.

President Aliyev's initiative on forming a 3+3 Consultative Regional Platform is already taking shape. It is a promising format involving the three South Caucasus countries and their three neighbours. I would like to hear your views on further steps in this direction.







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Russian, Iranian Foreign Ministers Sign Document on Actions Against Sanctions

Sputnik News

20231205

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, have signed a document on actions against sanctions, Sputnik correspondent reported on Tuesday.

"We have just signed a declaration on ways and means to counter, mitigate and offset the negative consequences of unilateral coercive measures. This is certainly an important step in increasing coordination of efforts by members of the global community to overcome the illegal sanctions, with which the United States and its allies replaced diplomacy," Lavrov said during a meeting with his Iranian counterpart in the Russian capital.

The Russia-Iran declaration on ways and means of countering, mitigating and compensating for the negative consequences of the "unilateral coercive measures" was signed in Moscow, where Amirabdollahian arrived for talks with the five Caspian states, as well as for bilateral talks with Russia.

As part of the Iranian delegation's visit to Moscow, the Iranian foreign minister's senior adviser for special political affairs, Ali Asghar Khaji, met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, the Russian Foreign Ministry said. The two diplomats discussed the current situation in the Gaza Strip, problems with humanitarian aid to the enclave, and the settlement of the Syrian issue.

"The two sides discussed the current situation in the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of continued close coordination between Moscow and Tehran, including within the framework of the Astana format, in the interests of a comprehensive settlement in Syria," the ministry said in a statement.

In 2017, Russia, Turkiye and Iran launched a mediation group on the Syrian settlement in Astana. In January 2018, the Russian city of Sochi hosted a congress of the Syrian national dialogue, the first attempt since the start of the conflict to gather an inclusive pool of Syrian political forces. The main result of the congress was the decision to create a constitutional committee, which operates in Geneva and whose main task is to prepare a constitutional reform in Syria.

Iran has been under US sanctions for several years over the development of its nuclear program. The sanctions restrict oil exports from Iran and block accounts of the Iranian authorities, as well as high-ranking officials and legal entities. On December 1, the US House of Representatives passed a bill dubbed No Funds For Iranian Terrorism Act to refreeze $6 billion in Iranian funds initially released by US President Joe Biden's administration as part of a prisoner swap deal reached earlier this year.

A Sputnik

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Treasury Targets Russian Defense Procurement Network

U.S. Department of the Treasury

December 5, 2023

Concurrent Treasury sanctions, DOJ indictments, and Commerce listings hold to account procurement network supplying Russia with critical military technology

WASHINGTON -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is targeting a network led by Belgium-based Hans De Geetere that is involved in procuring electronics with military applications for Russian end-users. The network consists of nine entities and five individuals based in Russia, Belgium, Cyprus, Sweden, Hong Kong, and the Netherlands.

Concurrent with OFAC's action, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) unsealed two separate indictments against Hans De Geetere related to his years-long scheme to unlawfully export sensitive, military-grade technology from the United States to end users located in the People's Republic of China (PRC) and the Russian Federation. The U.S. Department of Commerce is also concurrently adding Hans De Geetere and five entities to the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) Entity List. Additionally, Belgian authorities took action against De Geetere on charges related to his global illicit procurement scheme.

"Today's coordinatedaction reflects our collective commitment to enforcing our sanctions and export controls, including holding accountable those who seek to evade these measures," said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson. "The United States and our allies remain focused on disrupting any attempts by Russia or its trusted agents to gain access to the critical inputs and technologies necessary to support Moscow's defense industry and facilitate its brutal war in Ukraine."

HANS DE GEETERE AND COMPANIES

Hans De Geetere (De Geetere) is a Belgian businessman and long-time procurement agent for Russia who serves as the director of several companies in Belgium, Cyprus, and the Netherlands. De Geetere has coordinated the procurement of electronics for Russian customers, including field programmable gate arrays (FPGA)ahigh priority semiconductor devices sought by Russia for its weapons programs.

De Geetere operates Belgium-based Knokke Heist Support Corporation Management (Knokke Heist), Cyprus-based Eriner Limited (Eriner), Cyprus-based The Mother Ark Ltd (The Mother Ark), and Netherlands-based European Trading Technology B.V. (European Trading Technology).

De Geetere is being designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the defense and related materiel sector of the Russian Federation economy. Knokke Heist, Eriner, The Mother Ark, and European Trading Technology are being designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, De Geetere.

COMPANIES LINKED TO ERINER AND THE MOTHER ARK

In some cases, De Geetere and his network have attempted to ship electronics to Russia via transshipment points in Hong Kong, China, and TArkiye. The De Geetere-led company Eriner has repeatedly conducted business with the Hong Kong-based company M and S Trading, and coordinated electronics orders for Russia, including orders for integrated circuits of the same model as those identified in Russian-made unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) recovered in Ukraine.

The Cyprus-based entity Lar Vorto Services Limited (Lar Vorto) is on the board of multiple De Geetere-led firms. Lar Vorto is responsible for the position of Secretary at Eriner and The Mother Ark, as well as a third firm, Ahetei Limited (Ahetei), which was led by De Geetere at the time of its establishment. Ahetei has attempted to obtain U.S.-origin accelerometers, which are dual-use devices with aerospace and military applications. The Netherlands-based company Hasa Nederland B.V. (Hasa Nederland), registered in both Belgium and the Netherlands, is a subsidiary of The Mother Ark and shares an address with European Trading Technology.

M and S Trading is being designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, De Geetere. Lar Vorto is being designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, Eriner. Ahetei is being designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Lar Vorto. Hasa Nederland is being designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, The Mother Ark.

INDIVIDUALS AND COMPANIES LINKED TO THE DE GEETERE NETWORK

In addition to the companies that he formally directs, De Geetere's network includes the Belgium-based company European Technical Trading (ETT), founded and led by his brother, Tom De Geetere (Tom De Geetere). De Geetere has leveraged the ETT brand in attempted purchases from U.S. and European companies. In addition to his role as the founder and Director of ETT, Tom De Geetere has coordinated with his brother to procure UAV engines.

ETT is being designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, De Geetere. Tom De Geetere is being designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for being or having been a leader, official, senior executive officer, or member of the board of directors of ETT.

De Geetere has involved the Russian national Vladimir Kulemekov (Kulemekov) in multiple business dealings, including coordinating electronics orders for Russian entities. Kulemekov was previously employed by De Geetere and has been identified as a member of the previously designated Main Intelligence Directorate of the Russian General Staff (GRU).

Kulemekov's associate, Sergey Skvortsov (Skvortsov), has served as the director of a Kulemekov-owned electronics company founded to facilitate Sweden-based contracts between China and Russia. Skvortsov simultaneously led a separate import-export company that tested electronic components in production. Skvortsov has also procured electronics for Russian Government entities.

Kimberley Beun (Beun) is a Belgium-based Dutch citizen who has provided assistance handling financial affairs on behalf of Eriner. Beun has also served on the board of directors of De Geetere-linked companies, including Hasa Nederland.

Kulemekov is being designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, De Geetere. Skvortsov is being designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the defense and related materiel sector of the Russian Federation economy. Beun is being designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Eriner.

SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS

As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property of the persons above that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC. In addition, any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, 50 percent or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked. All transactions by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of designated or blocked persons are prohibited unless authorized by a general or specific license issued by OFAC, or exempt. These prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any blocked person and the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person.

The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC's ability to designate and add persons to the SDN List, but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, please refer toOFAC's Frequently Asked Question 897 here. For detailed information on the process to submit a request for removal from an OFAC sanctions list, please click here.

For identifying information on the individuals and entities sanctioned today, click here.

###

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Tsai attends groundbreaking at new aerospace and drone facility

ROC Central News Agency

12/05/2023 08:08 PM

Taipei, Dec. 5 (CNA) President Tsai Ing-wen () attended a groundbreaking ceremony for an aerospace and drone facility in Chiayi County Tuesday, with the site expected to boost Taiwan's asymmetric combat power, according to Tsai.

Tsai presided over the groundbreaking ceremony held by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST), Taiwan's top military research unit, in Minsyong Township.

Also attending the ceremony were Vice Premier Cheng Wen-tsan (), Minister of National Defense Chiu Kuo-cheng () and Chiayi County Magistrate Weng Chang-liang ().

In her speech, Tsai said drones will be mass produced at the facility, boosting military drone development and making Chiayi County one of the most strategically important drone production sites in Asia.

The current complicated and volatile international situations make drone development essential, Tsai said, adding that the Ministry of National Defense is actively seeking to boost the domestic production of the industry.

The first stage of construction will cover an area of 5 hectares and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, said NCSIST President Art Chang () in a presentation.

The following stages will be based on subsequent national defense missions, Chang added.

The facility will cover around 20 hectares in total and receive government funding from 2025 to 2028 to build standard factories, shed factories and testing sites for manufacturers to use.

(By Huang Guo-fang and Wu Kuan-hsien)

Enditem/AW



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Two new Chinese satellites no danger to Taiwan: Defense ministry

ROC Central News Agency

12/05/2023 01:04 PM

Taipei, Dec. 5 (CNA) The rockets used by China to send satellites into space on two consecutive days posed no threat to Taiwan, according to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND).

The MND detected satellite launches from China's Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on Monday at noon and Tuesday morning.

Both rockets traveled toward the Indian Ocean above the atmosphere, posing no danger to Taiwan, the MND said in brief statements on Monday and Tuesday after the launches.

Taiwan's armed forces were on alert and monitored the rockets' paths, the MND said.

(By Novia Huang and Wu Kuan-hsien)

Enditem/ls







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PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Dec. 5, 2023

ROC Ministry of National Defense

2023/12/05

PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

Dec. 5, 2023 09:00iUTC+8i

1.Dateis

6 to 6 a.m. (UTC+8) Monday to Tuesday, Dec. 4-5

2.PLA activitiesis

7 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected by 6 a.m.(UTC+8) today. R.O.C. Armed Forces have monitored the situation and tasked Navy vessels, and land-based missile systems to respond these activities.

3.Illustration of flight path is not provided due to no trace of PLA aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait or entering Taiwan's southwestern ADIZ during the time frame.



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Minister Bruins Slot pledges a17 million in justice funding during visit to Ukraine: 'War crimes against the Ukrainian people must not go unpunished'

Government of the Netherlands - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

News item | 05-12-2023

While visiting Kyiv on Tuesday, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hanke Bruins Slot, said she would make a17 million available to support Ukraine in combating impunity and ensuring justice for Ukrainian victims of war crimes. Part of the funds will be used to strengthen the justice system in Ukraine. 'Restoring Justice' is the seventh point in the ten-point plan presented by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on 11 October 2022. Within the international community the Netherlands has taken the lead on this point.

The minister visited Ukraine on Monday and Tuesday, meeting in Kyiv on Tuesday with foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba and President Zelenskyy. Ms Bruins Slot spoke to them about the importance of continued support for Ukraine in resisting Russian aggression. 'This is going to be a lengthy conflict, so together with the EU and NATO we need to continue doing all we can to support Ukraine in defending itself against Russia. If we let our efforts flag now, we'll be giving Putin exactly what he wants,' the minister said.

In her talks the minister also emphasised that war crimes against the Ukrainian people must not go unpunished. 'Evidence of the atrocities committed during this conflict is visible in many places in Ukraine,' she said. 'For example in Bucha, where the mass grave at St Andrews Church painfully reminds for the horrific crimes committed here against innocent civilians. The Ukrainian people deserve our support in bringing those responsible to justice. The Netherlands will continue working to help make that possible.'

Dutch financial support for justice

The a17 million contribution consists of two parts: a total of a9 million will be made available for the project 'Restoring Dignity and Justice in Ukraine', which is aimed at supporting Ukraine's justice system with knowledge, practical expertise and capacity, specifically in the field of international criminal law. This project focuses on areas such as combating impunity for sexual and gender-based violence, strengthening Ukraine's capacity to prosecute these kinds of crimes, and enhancing Ukraine's capacity to investigate and prosecute international crimes committed against children. Ms Bruins Slot announced the contribution during her meeting with Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin.

In addition, the Netherlands is also supporting the European Union Advisory Mission (EUAM Ukraine) with a contribution of a8 million. The minister announced the amount during her visit to the mission in Kyiv. This money will be used to strengthen Ukraine's public prosecution service and its police force in areas of the country that have been liberated. The mission will also use the money for advisory services in the field of investigation and prosecution.

Visits to Bucha, Myrotske

On Monday, the foreign minister visited Bucha and Myrotske. The name Bucha hit the headlines after its lengthy occupation by the Russian army. After the army's withdrawal, the atrocities committed in Bucha came to light, and images of the aftermath were beamed around the world. In Bucha, Ms Bruins Slot visited the mass grave at St Andrew's Church. In Myrotske she visited a demining project. The minister also visited an artillery training centre.

Dialogue Group on Accountability for Ukraine

On Tuesday, minister Bruins Slot met with the Ukrainian ombudsman, Dmytro Lubinets, about the abduction of Ukrainian children by Russia and how the Netherlands can help reunite these children with their families, for example through the use of rapid DNA test kits.

On that same day, the minister also officially opened the Secretariat of the Dialogue Group on Accountability for Ukraine, which is based in the office of the Prosecutor General in Kyiv. The Group was set up at the initiative of the Netherlands in March this year. It serves as a platform for countries, international organisations and civil society actors to ensure that the many national and international justice initiatives for Ukraine are properly aligned.

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Zimbabwean medical student aims to bring Chinese expertise back home

People's Daily Online) 13:58, December 06, 2023

Tabengwa George Takura, a Zimbabwean medical student, moved to Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in northwest China in 2017 to pursue his clinical studies. He is currently an intern doctor at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University. Takura's goal is to acquire advanced medical skills in China before returning to Zimbabwe to assist patients. He believes that to excel in medicine in China, one must first learn the Chinese language and understand the culture. Takura enjoys visiting museums and making local friends in China, seeking to learn about and immerse himself in Chinese culture through direct experiences.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang)
Ukraine's Zelenskiy Cancels Speech To U.S. Senators To Urge Passage Of Military Aid

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service December 05, 2023

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy canceled an address to U.S. senators on December 5 as debate heated up on President Joe Biden's nearly $106 billion request for funding for the wars in Ukraine and Israel.

Zelenskiy had been expected to make Ukraine's case for continued American military aid as Ukraine braces for a difficult winter on the battlefield and as Russian shelling and strikes continue to kill civilians.

The Biden administration asked Congress in October to pass the aid package, which would cover not only aid for Ukraine and Israel but also border security, but the Republican-controlled House rejected the request.

Zelenskiy canceled his video address shortly after Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (Republican-Kentucky) told fellow Republicans to vote against the measure when it comes to the floor.

Earlier on December 5 House Speaker Mike Johnson delivered a hard-line message in which he said U.S. border security is "the battle," adding, "We do that first as a top priority, and we'll take care of these other obligations."

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (Democrat-New York) that Zelenskiy had canceled his speech to the classified briefing, which the Biden administration organized to underscore how desperately the aid is needed, warning on December 4 that American aid for Ukraine will dry up by the end of the year.

In a blunt warning, Biden's budget director Shalanda Young told Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson in a letter that the lack of U.S. military aid would "kneecap" the Ukrainian military's efforts, increasing Russia's chances on the battlefield.

"Already, our packages of security assistance have become smaller and the deliveries of aid have become more limited," Young wrote.

"If our assistance stops, it will cause significant issues for Ukraine. While our allies around the world have stepped up to do more, U.S. support is critical and cannot be replicated by others."

In Kyiv on December 5, Dutch Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot said the Netherlands increased its support for Ukraine, announcing 2.5 billion euros (nearly $2.7 billion) to support the country in 2024.

Bruins Slot told journalists after a meeting with Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba: "My main message to Minister Kuleba was the same as to all of you here. Be assured of our support."

Bruins Slot said her country opened a training center for F-16s in Romania in November and is working with the United States, Denmark, and other countries to see that Ukraine can deploy the fighter jets as soon as possible.

The developments come as Ukrainian forces are locked in close combat with Russian troops around the industrial city of Avdiyivka. Russian forces have been attempting for several weeks to encircle the city in the eastern region of Donetsk that has become a symbol of Ukrainian resistance.

Ukrainian troops repelled 23 Russian assaults in the Avdiyivka area, the General Staff said in its evening summary on December 5.

The summary said 70 combat clashes took place at the front during the day. According to the report, the Ukrainian military repulsed five attacks by Russian troops in the Kupyansk direction, 13 in the Lyman area, and nine in the Bakhmut area in addition to the 23 in the Avdiyivka area.

Ukrainian forces continue to hold back Russian forces in the Maryinka and nearby districts of the Donetsk region, where the enemy carried out 13 attacks with the support of aviation, the summary said.

Ukraine's Air Force said it shot down a Russian bomber over the Black Sea, and a Russian search-and-rescue aircraft was searching for it.

"Currently, the Russian An-26 search-and-rescue aircraft is trying to find Russian pilots in the waters of the Black Sea," Air Force spokesman Yuriy Ihnat said on Facebook.

The commander of Ukraine's Air Force, General Mykola Oleschuk, reported the downing of a Russian Su-24M bomber near Snake Island. According to Oleschuk, the Su-24M bomber tried to attack Odesa under the cover of an Su-30SM fighter jet.

With reporting by Reuters, AP, and AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia- drone-strikes/32714226.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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David Ignatius: Despite War Fatigue, Gaza, Putin Should 'Be Pretty Careful About Making Bets' In Ukraine

By Vazha Tavberidze December 05, 2023

David Ignatius is a veteran journalist and an associate editor and foreign affairs columnist at The Washington Post, as well as the author of 11 novels, including the 2007 spy thriller, Body Of Lies.

He has written extensively in his twice-weekly columns about Russia's invasion of Ukraine and chats twice a month with Washington Post readers about the conflict.

Ignatius talked recently to RFE/RL's Georgian Service about the war in Ukraine, how the conflict in Gaza and next year's U.S. presidential election might shape international support for Kyiv, and why the world needs "police, but not 'a policeman.'" He also talked about his forthcoming novel, Phantom Orbit, calling it "a love letter to the Russia that once was and might still be."

RFE/RL: You have written extensively on the U.S. stance on the Israeli conflict with Hamas. (Editor's note: Hamas has been designated by the United States and European Union as a terrorist organization.) Is it a battle on two fronts that the United States is having right now -- one in Gaza and another in Ukraine? Would that be a correct reading of the situation?

David Ignatius: I think so. They're two big wars that will shape those two parts of the world. I was in Ukraine, I was coming home, on the day (October 7) that Hamas broke through the fence in Israel. But my feelings about Ukraine...after the failure of the Ukrainian counteroffensive to achieve sufficient gains to force the Russians to consider what I think would have been a Chinese request that they seek a diplomatic resolution. I think that was the idea all along: to gain enough on the battlefield that the Chinese get nervous and the Russians have to listen to their Chinese friends, and then you have negotiations in the spring. That now seems very unlikely.

On my trip to Ukraine at the end of September and early October, I heard, for the first time, a real debate among young Ukrainians about how much the country can handle. I had a sense of commitment, as always, from Ukrainians, but also of exhaustion. I've been trying to think how, through the winter, can they get stronger? The things that you need to let yourself think about that would provide for some period going forward a strong Ukraine that's in Europe, that defers the reacquisition of its stolen territories until the time when it's stronger.

As always, I think [the] Ukrainians have to lead that conversation.... I think it's their decision to make; that's what I've always heard sincerely from top people at the [U.S.] State Department and the [National Security Council].

RFE/RL: These two large wars that you mentioned, one in Gaza and another in Ukraine -- how does one affect the other?

Ignatius: Famously, we're a country that has trouble, to put it in a vulgar way...walking and chewing gum at the same time. Our national security process is good at concentrating on one thing but not so good at concentrating on two things. So, I think since Gaza became the overwhelming subject, there just has been less focus on Ukraine.

We have a new chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff. [General Mark] Milley had developed quite a close relationship with [Ukrainian commander] General [Valeriy] Zaluzhniy. It will take a while for his successor, General Charles Q. Brown Jr., to develop something similar. Zaluzhniy's own extraordinary essay in The Economist, essentially admitting we're in a stalemate, struck me as a very interesting message. I thought the primary audience was probably [Volodymyr] Zelenskiy, his own president.

But what was it that he was saying? That either [you] have to step it up, but there are limits to how much you can step it up, given American constraints, or we have to think about an alternative, longer-term strategy. It's as if the last chapter of Zaluzhniy's essay was left unwritten. But I'd love to know what it would say.

RFE/RL: In this situation that the United States finds itself in, one particular metaphor keeps popping up: the United States as the "world's policeman." Does the world need one? And, if it does, how good is the United States at being one?

Ignatius: The world needs the order that comes from the norms and rules of behavior being enforced. I don't think it needs a "policeman" so much as a collection of police that together form a coherent rule-enforcement system. In the United States, we have more than 50 different police forces; so, in some states, law enforcement is better than others.

But I think when the United States tries to be this single superpower, it gets in trouble. It creates resentments. It makes mistakes. The period of the Iraq War is a classic example where the United States did something that, in retrospect, is just incredibly stupid. Other countries warned us that we were being a dumb policeman, that we were chasing the wrong criminal, but, you know, we did it anyway.

RFE/RL: Which is, by the way, what Russians very often point fingers at and say, "If the United Statees could do that, why can't we be allowed to do this?"

Ignatius: Yes. I think the Russians are making a mistake probably as consequential as the Iraq War that will leave them weakened as much as the Iraq War left us, probably more. So, it's just a misuse of your police powers.

My simple answer is that the world needs police but not a "policeman." I think there is a diminished will among some Americans -- simple shorthand would be to say among [former U.S. President Donald] Trump supporters -- for America playing a strong role as an international keeper of order. People say, "Ah, you know, people aren't grateful. It costs us too much. Let's worry about things at home" -- all the arguments people know. But I don't think that that group is anything close to a majority. And, for example, I think the aid package for Ukraine will end up being passed....

So, the Europeans' worry is whether America [is] reverting to a neo-isolationist, anti-globalist, America-first country. And my answer would be, no, I don't think that's happening.

RFE/RL: We kind of edged closer to the next topic that I wanted to ask you about. And that would be the U.S. election, taking into consideration your much-talked-about column where you say that President Joe Biden shouldn't run again. Let's look at it through the Ukrainian prism. If not Biden, then who? And what would it bring to Ukraine?

Ignatius: Biden has been the leader who, on the one hand, was determined to support Ukraine, [and] on the other hand was determined not to get into a war with Russia. And there is an argument that he was so worried about the second part -- not getting into a war with Russia -- that he didn't do as well as he should have on the first part, that he deterred himself from taking actions that might have been more effective.

So, it is conceivable that another Democrat, if that person replaced Biden, would have a different view. At [the moment], it still looks as if Biden is sailing toward renomination and is going to run, even though it looks more and more like he might lose if he does that....

The other thing I'd say about Biden is that, although he's not getting any younger, and he doesn't look any younger, he has been behaving very vigorously. I think his policies generally in dealing with the war in Gaza and dealing with the war in Ukraine have been good. He continues to manage a good foreign policy process.

RFE/RL: We covered the Democratic side of things. What would the Republican candidate mean for Ukraine, considering the selection that is available?

Ignatius: The assumption is that if Trump or some Trump-lite candidate won, that they'd make a deal with Russia. It's not very complicated. That they would make a deal to end the war quickly, giving Russia pretty much what it wanted. And I think there's one problem with that, which is that it implies that Ukraine itself isn't a factor. And I don't think Ukraine is ready to be Donald Trump's sacrificial lamb to [Russian President] Vladimir Putin....

RFE/RL: Trump famously said he'd end the war in one day.

Ignatius: I think he believes it. But I think that when you actually think about it, it's very unrealistic, and he would quickly discover [it] was unrealistic, and he'd probably have to back away from it. And [there could be a] situation in which Republicans eager to make a deal with Donald Trump...as president might be willing to make concessions to get the deal that they wouldn't otherwise, [which] would end up being attractive enough to Ukraine. So, you can imagine that situation.

The next strongest candidate after Trump -- and I still have to say I strongly suspect that Trump won't be the nominee -- right now seems to be [former South Carolina governor and UN ambassador under Trump] Nikki Haley. And Nikki Haley is an internationalist. Of this whole group of Republicans, she's probably closest to the traditional hawkish Republican national security view in terms of the Ukraine war. If she was the candidate, or if she was vice president even, I think that would be a factor for continuation of something like the Biden policy, maybe even escalating support for Ukraine.

So, I think if you're Putin, you have to be pretty careful about making bets. He seems to think things are going his way. And...obviously, if you read Zaluzhniy's analysis, they haven't been going Ukraine's way. But there are a lot of problems ahead for Putin -- and, in some ways, the expectation that they would change radically if the Republicans won, I'm less convinced than some people are of that.

RFE/RL: You say that Ukraine won't be so eager to become Trump's sacrificial lamb. What happens if the United States stops providing military support, would that not be a decisive factor in this regard?

Ignatius: Well, if the U.S. stops providing military support entirely, that would be significant. It would be hard for any coalition of countries to make up for that. I think Trump would get so much resistance from Republicans that that complete cutoff is actually a tail event -- that's outside the normal distribution of what's likely. You know, it could happen, and it would have disastrous effects. But I don't think, even with a Trump-as-president scenario, it's all that likely.

RFE/RL: Back in 2014, when Putin annexed Crimea, you wrote that "Putin's gambit will fail over time, if Europe and the United States remain resolute and patient." How big an "if" has this proved to be?

Ignatius: So, patience is not the United States' strongest quality.

RFE/RL: "Resolute" is?

Ignatius: When we're in a fight, so long as it doesn't become politicized, our military is very resolute. Look at the fight against ISIS (the Islamic State extremist group). I traveled to Syria five or six times and to Raqqa (the Syrian city where IS was headquartered) twice, and I have to tell you, Raqqa looks worse than anything in Gaza City.

So, you know, we took apart that adversary. We were resolute. And the American conduct in war has often been resolute until there is an intersection with politics. And then, in Vietnam obviously, but you could cite lots of other examples, people get tired, they want results, generals trying to give them results do the wrong thing. I mean, it's a chain of error.

So, the standard retort when people say, "Oh, you Americans are impatient, you don't have the staying power, you're feckless" -- let's look at the Cold War. America sacrificed for a generation, basically for almost 50 years, to prevail in a conflict that it felt went to the core of its values and interests. And it made enormous sacrifices, and the world is immensely better for it. Like World War II, I mean, you know, you think of all the countries that were just battered, and America did come to the rescue.

And you look at all those graves in Normandy, all those Americans who came and gave their lives for the sake of a free Europe. And I think there's something similar with the Cold War. There's a generation of Americans who believed in it, who spent the money, who spent the time. And as I look at a free Eastern Europe -- Warsaw is one of my favorite cities in the world -- and when I go for a walk in Warsaw, I'm reminded that the United States isn't quite as fickle, unreliable as we sometimes think.

RFE/RL: So, you think that the United States and the West will remain resolute in this conflict as well.

Ignatius: I've been more impressed with European resoluteness than American. I think one of the great things that's happened is that the Ukraine war tapped idealism and commitment in Europe and determination to be a good ally for Ukraine and its struggle. And I've written often: Europeans have been a lot more resolute than Republican members of Congress.

You know, even with the concerns about German staying power, the Germans are still committed, they're still supplying weapons, they're going to build weapons in Ukraine. So, I think something has changed in Europe, and I find it encouraging and, ideally, we have a world in which the United States is a little less the "world's policeman" and Europe is a little more. And maybe that's where we're heading.

RFE/RL: Speaking of Germans, in that very essay, you placed high hopes into then-Chancellor Angela Merkel "being an iron lady of this crisis." How would you rate her performance in that role?

Ignatius: She had an unfortunate ending to her chancellorship. And it was a surprise: Why did she become so pliant with Russia and Putin toward the end, after being the person, famously, who, having grown up in the East, understood the nature of communism and the danger it posed, and I think was a wonderful leader for Germany in the process of reunification. I think it's a great, enduring achievement for her.

But I think toward the end, she made mistakes, and I think history will judge the end of her chancellorship pretty harshly. My own feeling is she kind of got worn out. It's hard for me to explain otherwise.... It wasn't uniquely her problem, but in terms of the hopes I was expressing that she would be an iron lady, too. She wasn't.

RFE/RL: Besides being a journalist, you're also a celebrated, best-selling author in the spy-fiction genre. And I can't help but ask why none of your spy novels features Russia prominently? Surely Vladimir Putin would be a tailor-made villain for a spy thriller, no?

Ignatius: It just so happens that in April or May of next year, I'll publish a novel called Phantom Orbit, which has as its hero a Russian. It's set in the aftermath of the invasion of Ukraine, but its roots as a story go back to 1995. I won't go into all the detail, but it gave me a chance to think about what I think is the most interesting issue in both warfare and intelligence, which is space systems.

I think space will be where wars begin and certainly where intelligence collection will focus.

And to think about Chinese and Russian systems that operate in space, as we've seen them in Ukraine: They've been more important to the Ukrainian war than I think is realized. I've said in the afterword of this book that it's a love letter to the Russia that once was and might still be. I hope readers will find an enthusiasm for the kind of sentimental Russian values that animate the Russian fiction that we all grew up reading. Anyway, that hole in my literary shelf is now going to be filled.

RFE/RL: You mentioned that it will be set in the aftermath of the invasion in Ukraine. Does that mean the beginning of the invasion, or has the conflict already run its course in the book?

Ignatius: No. I don't dare predict how it will turn out. The book is about a Russia that has been crushed emotionally in the way that I think Putin's Russia has been crushed. The hero is from a town in the eastern Urals called Magnitogorsk, which is Russia's Pittsburgh. It's the place where Russia made steel. Magnitogorsk is a reference to a magnetic mountain, a mountain of iron ore. And much like in Pittsburgh in America or towns in Europe that were steel-making towns, it feels like it's been defeated in a war. People there feel crushed.

And so, the hero of this book comes from that place, a country that feels twice-over defeated, with the end of the Soviet Union and the end of his world. And so, he tries to find his way as a scientist in a different world. So, I was on my way to Magnitogorsk to do research for this novel when I got sanctioned by Russia. I am on the sanctions list. I am the rare journalist [on the sanctions list], so I had to abandon my travel plans.

RFE/RL: So basically, the hero of your book will be the kind of guy that we all one day hope to take Putin's place.

Ignatius: He has qualities that are like [Russian opposition leader Aleksei] Navalny's: funny, cynical. I find Navalny just endlessly interesting to watch. He makes me laugh; his wry, ironic view of Putin and all these thieves who surround him makes me laugh out loud. And so, my character and his son, who also goes into this business, both have those qualities.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia- drone-strikes/32714226.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Russian Forces Secure Fortified Areas Near Liberated Artyomovskoye in Special Op Zone

Sputnik News

20231205

Russian units of the Sever-V (lit. North-V) Volunteer Assault Corps are clearing forests near a small settlement of Artyomovskoye (Khromovo) in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR).

Alexey Selivanov, a corps representative and assistant to the commander of the Yenisey detachment, told Sputnik that Russian soldiers had blocked the main supply route of Ukrainian forces in the Artemovsk-Soledar front area.

"We are mostly clearing fortified areas and forest belts along the roads that served as supply routes for Ukrainian troops (Artemovsk-Soledar direction). Now we are attacking the enemy's strongholds. Basically, we can say that the offensive is progressing successfully within the tactical plan," Selivanov said.

Earlier, the Russian Defense Ministry reported that Russian units of the Yug battle group "continued to improve positions along the front line and liberated the settlement of Artyomovskoye in the DPR" using air and artillery strikes.

Artyomovskoye (Khromovo) is a small settlement west of the city of Artemovsk (Bakhmut). During the battle for the city, the last supply route of a Ukrainian military group passed through it.

A Sputnik

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Russian Air Defense Destroys, Intercepts 35 Ukrainian Drones

Sputnik News

20231205

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian air defense destroyed 22 Ukrainian drones and intercepted 13 more over the Sea of Azov and Crimea, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.

"Tonight, an attempt by the Kiev regime to carry out a terrorist attack by fixed-wing drones on objects on the territory of the Russian Federation was stopped. Twenty-two Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were destroyed by air defense systems and another 13 were intercepted over the Sea of aaAzov and the territory of the Republic of Crimea," the ministry said on Telegram

Ukraine has been sending drones into Russian territory on the regular basis since it launched a counteroffensive attempt in early June. In August UN officials slammed this move and stressed that they strongly condemn targeting civilian infrastructure.

A Sputnik

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Today, a Russian aircraft attempting to strike Odesa region was shot down near Zmiinyi Island - address by the President of Ukraine

President of Ukraine

5 December 2023 - 21:58

I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians!

A few summaries for this day.

I am grateful to our defenders of the sky - just today a Russian aircraft was shot down in the area of Zmiinyi Island in the Black Sea. The aircraft was attempting to strike Odesa region. Another minus one for the terrorists. And we will continue to "subtract" the terrorists. We are strengthening our air defense, particularly in Odesa region. Gradually. Yet tangibly. I thank every country that helps.

Today I met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, which is one of the countries that support us the most, in particular in the issue of air defense. We discussed what has already been done. Among other things, we discussed the situation in the south of our country - the work of our export corridor, our grain exports. I spoke about the situation on the battlefield - about our capabilities. About the defense packages that are needed. Of course, among other topics, we managed to discuss European integration matters. Ukraine is fulfilling all the necessary requirements, and in the coming days, we expect the Ukrainian Parliament to adopt several crucial European integration bills, which are extremely important. Each deputy's position will matter, and I am confident it will be rigorously evaluated by our entire society.

And a few of the most emotional moments today.

We are launching a new special initiative for all the Heroes of Ukraine - there are 360 of them since the beginning of the full-scale war. Every warrior and the family of a warrior who has been posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine will receive an apartment from the state. Not years from now, not someday, but now. Today, I had the honor of presenting the first documents for apartments to 21 Heroes of Ukraine. They are servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard, the Security Service of Ukraine, and the State Border Guard Service. Among these 21, nine are fallen heroes. Soon, the state will provide apartments for all Heroes of Ukraine. All of them. Including those who fought before February 24, since 2014, the valiant men. This is fair.

It's both highly symbolic and profoundly fair, that just before the Day of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which we'll be celebrating tomorrow, Ukraine is expressing gratitude to all its volunteers. To the thousands, tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands, even millions of caring Ukrainian men and women who joined the volunteer movement. During Maidan. During ATO. And now, in the time of full-scale war. Those who may feel tired but never give in to weariness. Who are always there to listen and help. Those who sometimes don't have days off, because they know what the brigades need. Those en route to the frontlines at this very moment. Who, perhaps, is completing another important fundraiser right now. Those who provide vehicles, medical supplies, drones, and all that's necessary. Speed and attentiveness - qualities the state still needs to learn. I thank each volunteer for being there for Ukraine. I thank all those who help in the frontline cities as well, help the internally displaced persons, the elderly, families with children. Those who contribute to the rehabilitation of the wounded. Those who understand the importance of offering warmth from compassionate hearts and the necessary support to families who have unfortunately lost loved ones in this war. I am thankful to each and every friendly nation's citizens - who have become like family here because they are also with us, with Ukraine, sharing the need to win this war. To win because it's about people. About humanity. It's about how our world should differ from the dreadful times of the past. The light of the human soul must prevail.

Glory to all who fight and work for Ukraine and Ukrainians! Glory to our powerful people!

Glory to Ukraine!

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Implementation of the Ukrainian Peace Formula will become a foundation that will enable us to stop tyranny in the world in the future - Andriy Yermak during his speech at the United States Institute of Peace

President of Ukraine

5 December 2023 - 21:36

As part of the visit to the United States together with Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk and Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov, Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak spoke at the United States Institute of Peace.

He thanked all partners who support Ukraine in the war against the Russian aggressor.

"Ukraine has been fighting for its freedom for 649 days. We have broken the plans of the Russian blitzkrieg. We have stood firm. Ukrainians are immensely grateful to everyone who has helped us remain a sovereign and independent nation," the Head of the President's Office said.

Andriy Yermak emphasized that today Russia is stirring up conflicts in different countries and provoking new global crises. Therefore, this must be prevented.

"We need to treat the disease, not its symptoms. Negotiations with terrorists always end in only fragile ceasefires. The key to peace lies in depriving their puppet masters of power," the Head of the President's Office noted.

Andriy Yermak emphasized that the Peace Formula presented by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the G20 Summit in Bali offers a comprehensive response to the security challenges facing humanity.

"It restores justice to the world. It's a Ukrainian formula, but the peace plan built on it has co-authors from around the world. We are turning goodwill into good action," he said.

The Head of the President's Office noted that the number of participants in the meetings of diplomatic representatives to discuss the mechanisms of the Peace Formula implementation is constantly increasing, and 86 diplomats joined the latest such meeting. Andriy Yermak emphasized that the mechanisms of implementation of the Formula are being finalized at the meetings of national security and foreign policy advisers.

"With each meeting, we grow stronger. We get closer to the Global Peace Summit - a gathering of world leaders committed to achieving a just, sustainable, and comprehensive peace as quickly as possible. And we believe that this summit will take place very soon," he said.

The Head of the President's Office emphasized that Ukraine seeks to fix the system of international relations and make it work on the basis of the rule of law.

"The Peace Formula has already become an international ecosystem. Now it is an integrated structure. And its elements are closely interconnected. It is a framework onto which executive mechanisms are mounted. A just, comprehensive, and lasting peace is only possible as a result of collective will and collective efforts. Responsible states that respect international law should stay united and committed to save the world. The prevention of war can only be achieved through reliable multilateral security guarantees for Ukraine," Andriy Yermak emphasized.

He noted that the implementation of the Peace Formula will become the foundation that will enable us to stop tyranny in the future.

The United States Institute of Peace (USIP) is an independent, non-partisan state-funded analytical center that studies the prevention and resolution of international conflicts. The institute is solely funded by appropriations from the U.S. Congress. Analysts from the institute often act as intermediaries in conflict zones.

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President met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands

President of Ukraine

5 December 2023 - 19:47

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands Hanke Bruins Slot, who is on a visit to Ukraine.

The Head of State expressed gratitude to the Netherlands for the robust support of Ukraine and highly appreciated the fruitful collaboration with Prime Minister Mark Rutte.

"We are grateful for the specific and strong decisions of the Netherlands that helped us on the battlefield, helped protect civilians, and contributed to the success of establishing an alternative humanitarian corridor," noted Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The President of Ukraine informed about the situation on the frontline and the strategic objectives in repelling Russia's full-scale aggression. The priority needs of Ukrainian defenders were discussed, particularly regarding the reinforcement of air defense, provision of additional artillery systems of 155 mm caliber and ammunition, as well as the training of Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets with the support of the Netherlands.

They also discussed the functioning of an alternative "grain corridor" and enhancing its protection.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Hanke Bruins Slot also touched upon the issues of the implementation of the Ukrainian Peace Formula, particularly the preparation for the fourth meeting at the level of security and foreign policy advisers, as well as the Global Peace Summit.

The parties discussed further steps in establishing a special tribunal for the crime of Russian aggression against Ukraine.

The Head of State and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands focused on the issue of Ukraine's European integration and preparations for the December meeting of the European Council. Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine was expected to adopt a number of European integration bills in the coming days.

"We count on a positive decision from the European Council regarding the start of negotiations on Ukraine's accession to the EU. This will be a powerful motivation for our society and for our defenders," emphasized the President.

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Ukraine has fulfilled over 90% of the recommendations of the European Commission and expects a fair decision from the EU on the start of accession negotiations - Ihor Zhovkva

President of Ukraine

5 December 2023 - 19:02

Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Ihor Zhovkva met with Spyridon Lambridis, Special Envoy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic for Ukraine.

The interlocutors discussed the implementation of the agreements following the visit of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the Hellenic Republic in August this year, during which, in particular, the first Ukraine-Balkans Summit took place. Ihor Zhovkva thanked Greece for its significant support of our country throughout the entire period of countering the full-scale aggression of the Russian Federation and expressed hope for deepening cooperation in all strategic areas of mutual interest.

For his part, Spyridon Lambridis announced Greece's readiness to host the second Ukraine-Balkans Summit in 2024.

The parties paid special attention to the security situation in Ukraine and the needs of our country to successfully conduct counteroffensive operations to liberate the territories temporarily occupied by Russia.

The interlocutors exchanged views on the practical results of the meeting of national security and political advisers to the leaders, which took place in Malta on October 28-29.

On the eve of the European Council Summit, the parties discussed Ukraine's progress on the path to EU integration. The Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine informed the Special Envoy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Greece about the progress in the country's reforms achieved after the European Commission's publication of recommendation to start negotiations with Ukraine on accession to the European Union within the annual enlargement report.

"We anticipate a display of European unity and Greece's support, along with other EU nations, regarding the political decision on the commencement of negotiations with Ukraine regarding its accession to the European Union. Ukraine has fulfilled more than 90% of the recommendations set by the European Commission for this purpose and counts on a fair decision of the EU based on the relevant achievements," emphasized Ihor Zhovkva.

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Zelenskyy Cancels Scheduled Meeting with US Lawmakers

By VOA News December 05, 2023

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy canceled a meeting with members of the U.S. Senate on Tuesday. He was expected to ask for continued military support amid the ongoing Russian invasion.

"Zelenskyy by the way could not make it to a something happened at the last minute a to our briefing," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a press conference.

Schumer said Zelenskyy had been invited to speak via video at a classified briefing so those at the meeting could "hear directly from him precisely what's at stake" and help lawmakers vote on a bill that includes billions of dollars in new aid for Ukraine.

Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young warned in a letter to congressional leaders Monday that by the end of the year, the U.S. will no longer have the funds to send weapons and assistance to Ukraine. It "will not be able to keep fighting," Young said of Ukraine, noting that the U.S. has already run out of money for propping up Ukraine's economy.

"We're running out of money, and we are nearly out of time," U.S. President Joe Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters. "A vote against supporting Ukraine is a vote to improve [Russian President Vladimir] Putin's strategic position."

On the battlefield, Ukraine's half-year-long counteroffensive has largely stalled against entrenched Russian forces, with only limited territorial gains in the eastern part of the country.

In October, the Biden administration asked Congress for nearly $106 billion to fund ambitious plans for Ukraine, Israel and U.S. border security.

But funding for Ukraine has become politically controversial with some right-leaning lawmakers in the narrowly Republican-controlled House of Representatives opposing further assistance, contending the aid is not in U.S. interests.

However, Young said in the letter released by the White House that cutting off funding and a flow of weapons to Ukraine would likely work to Russia's advantage on the battlefield.

"I want to be clear: Without congressional action, by the end of the year we will run out of resources to procure more weapons and equipment for Ukraine, to provide equipment from U.S. military stocks," she wrote. "There is no magical pot of funding available to meet this moment."

EU-Ukraine

Diplomatic envoys of the EU's 27 member countries will meet Tuesday to start debating a launch of EU membership talks with Ukraine, according to officials and diplomats.

The meeting marks the start of preparations among the 27 for the December 14-15 summit of the bloc's leaders that will also assess and decide on EU integration prospects for Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, Bosnia and others.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has demanded that Ukraine's membership bid into the European Union not be on the agenda at the EU summit.

In a letter he sent to European Council President Charles Michel, who will chair the summit in Brussels, Orban insisted that a "strategic discussion" is needed first about Ukraine's European future and warned that forcing a decision could destroy EU unity.

Orban, who is widely considered one of Russian President Vladimir Putin's closest allies in Europe, maintains that Ukraine is "light years away" from becoming an EU member.

He wrote that EU leaders "must avoid this counterproductive scenario for the sake of unity, our most important asset." He did not explicitly say that Hungary would veto any moves to open membership talks with Ukraine, but the threat was implicit.

Decisions regarding EU membership and EU's long-term budget, which includes $54.1 billion in assistance for Kyiv, can only be made unanimously by all 27 member countries.

Ukraine-Russia fighting

Russia's defense ministry said Tuesday the country's air defense systems destroyed or intercepted at least 35 Ukrainian drones.

The ministry said on Telegram it thwarted the attempted Ukrainian attacks over the Crimean Peninsula and the Sea of Azov.

Ukraine's military said Tuesday that Russia attacked overnight with 17 Iran-made Shahed drones, with Ukrainian air defenses destroying 10 of the drones.

It also said Russia launched six guided missiles targeting the Donetsk and Kherson regions.

Some information for this story came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.

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NEWARK, Del, Dec. 05, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global A2 infant formula market is valued at US$ 834 million in 2023. The market is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 18% during the projection period, reaching a market value of US$ 1,704 million by 2033.



The A2 infant formula is made from milk containing only the A2 beta-casein protein, which is propelling the markets growth. With rising emphasis on the use of A2 protein, the A2 infant formula has emerged as a healthier option compared to traditional formulas.

One of the key factors responsible for the expansion of the A2 infant formula industry is increasing parental awareness of the potential benefits of A2 milk for their infants. As parents actively look for healthier and more natural alternatives, they are also becoming more aware of the brand and variety of products available in the market.

Request a Sample of this Report: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-18560

With potential digestive benefits, A2 infant formula also serves as a source of essential nutrients for optimal infant growth and development. Manufacturers of A2 infant formula often emphasize the natural and organic aspects of their products, appealing to parents who prioritize wholesome and clean labels.

The higher cost of production and limited availability of A2 milk sources can result in higher prices for A2 infant formula compared to conventional formulas. This can pose a barrier for some price-sensitive consumers, limiting the market's reach.

The A2 infant formula market is experiencing rapid growth globally, driven by increasing consumer awareness of potential health benefits of infant formula and rising demand for natural and healthier alternatives to conventional formulas. However, challenges such as higher production costs and limited availability may impact its widespread adoption. - Says Nandini Roy Choudhury, Client Partner at Future Market Insights

Key Takeaways from the A2 Infant Formula Market Report:

The United States market is projected to reach a valuation of US$ 337.4 million by 2033, with an anticipated 8.6% CAGR during the forecast period.

Based on age group, product demand for the 0 to 6 months segment holds a dominant market share of 38% in 2023.

Germanys market is projected to witness a year-on-year growth rate of 14%, reaching a valuation of US$ 165.3 million by 2033.

China is the leading producer of A2 infant formula in Asia and is estimated to follow a CAGR of 13.6% over the forecast period.

Competitive Landscape:

Acquisitions and mergers are beneficial for companies in terms of improving their product quality and expanding their market reach. This is because combining resources, expertise, and customer base can lead to access to new technology, distribution channels, manufacturing facilities, and talent.

Similarly, launching new products can help businesses stay competitive and meet the changing consumer demands, allowing them to attract new customers and retain existing ones while increasing their market share. Major players in the baby food industry have introduced their own A2 infant formula products in response to the growing demand. This has led to increased competition and product innovation and development in the market.

Key Players Profiled in the A2 Infant Formula Market Report:

The A2 Milk Company

Synlait Milk

Bubs Australia Limited

Care A2+

Bellamy's Organic

Abbott

Mead Johnson

Perrigo

A2 Infant Formula Market Developments:

In November 2022, A2 Milk Co Ltd (ATM.NZ), a firm based in New Zealand, received the license to export infant milk formula to the United States, and it boosted the shares of the company by 7%.

In August 2020, Enfamil introduced Enfamil Premium A2 Infant Formula to strengthen its efforts in the protein market for child nutrition. The company claims its new A2 milk doesn't cause stomach pain, based on tests done on adults and preschoolers.

Purchase the Report for Key Insights: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/18560

Get More Valuable Insights:



FMI has released an objective assessment of the global market, presenting past demand data from 2018 to 2022 and projecting forecast statistics for the 2023 to 2033 period.



A2 Infant Formulas Market by Age Group (Infant formula (0-6 months), Follow-on formula (6-12 months) and Growing-up formula (12-36 months)), by Form (Powder, Liquid and Semi-liquid), by Distribution Channel (Hypermarket/Supermarket, Convenience Stores, Departmental Stores, Wholesale Stores, Specialty Health and Wellness stores, Independent Retailers Specialty Stores, Pharmacies and Drugstores and Online Retailers) & Region  Forecast to 2023 to 2033.



Key Segments Covered by A2 Infant Formula Industry Survey Report:

By Age Group:

Infant formula (0 to 6 months)

Follow-on formula (6 to 12 months)

Growing-up formula (12 to 36 months)



By Form Type:

Powder

Liquid

Semi-liquid



By Distribution Channel:

Hypermarket or Supermarket

Convenience Stores

Departmental Stores

Wholesale Stores

Specialty Health and Wellness stores

Independent Retailers

Specialty Stores

Pharmacies and Drugstores

Online Retailers



By Region:

North America Market

Latin America Market

Europe Market

East Asia Market

South Asia and Pacific Market

Middle East and Africa (MEA) Market

Authored by:

Nandini Roy Choudhury (Client Partner for Food & Beverages at Future Market Insights, Inc.) has 7+ years of management consulting experience. She advises industry leaders and explores off-the-eye opportunities and challenges. She puts processes and operating models in place to support their business objectives.

She has exceptional analytical skills and often brings thought leadership to the table.

Nandini has vast functional expertise in key niches, including but not limited to food ingredients, nutrition & health solutions, animal nutrition, and marine nutrients. She is also well-versed in the pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, retail, and chemical sectors, where she advises market participants to develop methodologies and strategies that deliver results.

Her core expertise lies in corporate growth strategy, sales and marketing effectiveness, acquisitions and post-merger integration and cost reduction. Nandini has an MBA in Finance from MIT School of Business. She also holds a Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering from Nagpur University, India.

Nandini has authored several publications, and quoted in journals including Beverage Industry, Bloomberg, and Wine Industry Advisor.

Explore FMIs related ongoing Coverage in the Food and Beverage Domain:

Infant Formula Market: Valuation is US$ 49,720 million in 2023. The market size in 2022 was US$ 45,614 million. The market is expected to grow at a healthy CAGR of 9% over the forecast period from 2023 to 2033.

Infant Formula Ingredients Market: This is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.3%. The market value is projected to increase to US$ 78,818.9 million by 2033. At present, the total market valuation accounts for US$ 42,645.0 million in 2023.

Infant Nutritional Premix Market: The Global Infant Nutritional Premix Market size was estimated at US$ 235 million in 2021 and expected to reach US$ 370 million in 2032, at 4%.

A2 Milk Market: This is expected to grow from US$ 2036.6 million in 2023. The market is projected to surpass US$ 5120.9 million by 2033, at a 9.5% CAGR during the forecast period.

Plant-based Milk Market: Size is expected to reach a valuation of US$ 19.8 billion by 2023. It is likely to accelerate with a CAGR of 9.9% from 2023 to 2033.

About Future Market Insights (FMI)

Future Market Insights, Inc. (ESOMAR certified, recipient of the Stevie Award, and a member of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce) offers profound insights into the driving factors that are boosting demand in the market. FMI stands as the leading global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, consulting, and events for the Packaging, Food and Beverage, Consumer Technology, Healthcare, Industrial, and Chemicals markets. With a vast team of over 5000 analysts worldwide, FMI provides global, regional, and local expertise on diverse domains and industry trends across more than 110 countries.

Contact FMI:

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

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NEW ORLEANS, Dec. 05, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until January 8, 2024 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against FMC Corporation (NYSE: FMC), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Companys shares between November 2, 2022 and October 20, 2023, inclusive (the Class Period). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.



Get Help

FMC investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-fmc/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options.

About the Lawsuit

FMC and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

On September 7, 2023, Blue Orca Capital reported that the Company had made a series of false statements about the status of patent protections for its flagship products following legal defeats in India, China, and Brazil, that allowed competitors to launch competing generic products at much lower prices. On this news, the price of FMCs shares dropped more than 7.4%, to close at $76.10 per share, representing approximately $630 million in investor losses, on high trading volume.

Then, on October 23, 2023, the Company disclosed further cuts to its Q3 2023 outlook and guidance for revenues for Q4 and FY 2024, projecting earnings well below analysts expectations, citing substantially lower sales volumes in Latin America. On this news, the price of FMCs shares plummeted by $8.83 per share, or 12.18%, to close at $58.12 per share.

The case is Heeg v. FMC Corporation, et al., 23-cv-4938.

About ClaimsFiler

ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations.

To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.
Mumbai, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Guidepoint, the world's leading expert network and research enablement platform, proudly announced today the expansion of its Mumbai office in support of the firm's rapid growth in the Indian market.

Jon Adkins, Guidepoint's Director and Head of International, commented, "This investment in India underscores our unwavering commitment to providing our Indian clientele  investors, consultants, and corporations  with unparalleled local perspectives to help harness global expertise.

Guidepoint's new office is strategically situated within the prestigious Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai - a distinguished business epicenter housing a multitude of international corporations, financial institutions, and headquarters of major Indian enterprises.

Jagjeet Kang-Pabla, Ph.D., Guidepoint's Senior Vice President of Client Services, expressed, "With a rapidly growing team of dedicated professionals in India, we aim to continue exceeding the expectations of our clients with timely and invaluable expert perspectives, enabling them to make well-informed decisions."

For more information, follow Guidepoint India on LinkedIn at Guidepoint India, or to connect with a Guidepoint India representative, please email us at mumbai@guidepoint.com.

About Guidepoint

Guidepoint is a leading research enablement platform designed to accelerate understanding and empower decisionmaking through real-time access to data and hard-to-source knowledge. Backed by the worlds largest network of expertise, the company provides critical context and dimension on any topic, letting top companies and investors rapidly turn answers into action.

For more information, visit www.guidepoint.com.

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SEATTLE, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WatchGuard Technologies, a global leader in unified cybersecurity, today announced the findings of its latest Internet Security Report, detailing the top malware trends and network and endpoint security threats analyzed by WatchGuard Threat Lab researchers. Key findings from the data show increasing instances of remote access software abuse, the rise of cyber adversaries using password-stealers and info-stealers to thieve valuable credentials, and threat actors pivoting from utilizing scripting to employing other living-off-the-land techniques to initiate an endpoint attack.

Threat actors continue using different tools and methods in their attack campaigns, making it critical for organizations to keep abreast of the latest tactics to fortify their security strategy, said Corey Nachreiner, chief security officer at WatchGuard. Modern security platforms that include firewalls and endpoint protection software can deliver enhanced protection for networks and devices. But when it comes to attacks that employ social engineering tactics, the end user becomes the last line of defense between malicious actors and their success in infiltrating an organization. Its important for organizations to provide social engineering education as well as adopt a unified security approach that provides layers of defense, which can be administered effectively by managed service providers.

Among the key findings, the latest Internet Security Report featuring data from Q3 2023 showed:

Threat actors increasingly use remote management tools and software to evade anti-malware detection, which both the FBI and CISA have acknowledged. For instance, in researching the top phishing domains, the Threat Lab observed a tech support scam that would result in a victim downloading a pre-configured, unauthorized version of TeamViewer, which would allow an attacker full remote access to their computer.

Medusa ransomware variant surges in Q3, driving endpoint ransomware attacks to increase 89%. On the surface, endpoint ransomware detections appeared down in Q3. Yet the Medusa ransomware variant, which emerged in the Top 10 malware threats for the first time, was detected with a generic signature from the Threat Labs automated signature engine. When factoring in the Medusa detections, ransomware attacks rose 89% quarter over quarter.

Threat actors pivot from using script-based attacks and increasingly employ other living-off-the-land techniques. Malicious scripts declined as an attack vector by 11% in Q3 after dropping by 41% in Q2. Still, script-based attacks remain the largest attack vector, accounting for 56% of total attacks, and scripting languages like PowerShell are often used in living-off-the-land attacks. Alternatively, Windows living-off-the-land binaries increased 32%. These findings indicate to Threat Lab researchers that threat actors continue to utilize multiple living-off-the-land techniques, likely in response to more protections around PowerShell and other scripting. Living-off-the-land attacks make up the most endpoint attacks.

Malware arriving over encrypted connections declined to 48%, meaning just under half of all malware detected came via encrypted traffic. This figure is notable because it is down considerably from previous quarters. Overall, total malware detections increased by 14%.

An email-based dropper family that delivers malicious payloads comprised four of the Top 5 encrypted malware detections in Q3. All but one of the variants in the Top 5 contained the dropper family named Stacked, which arrives as an attachment in an email spear phishing attempt. Threat actors will send emails with malicious attachments that appear to come from a known sender and claim to include an invoice or important document for review, aiming to trick end users into downloading malware. Two of the Stacked variants  Stacked.1.12 and Stacked.1.7  also appeared in the Top 10 malware detections.

Commoditized malware emerges. Among the top malware threats, a new malware family, Lazy.360502, made the Top 10 list. It delivers the adware variant 2345explorer as well as the Vidar password stealer. This malware threat connected to a Chinese website that provided a credential stealer and appeared to operate like a password stealer as a service, where threat actors could pay for stolen credentials, illustrating how commoditized malware is being used.

Network attacks saw a 16% increase in Q3. ProxyLogon was the number-one vulnerability targeted in network attacks, comprising 10% of all network detections in total.

Three new signatures appeared in the Top 50 network attacks. These included a PHP Common Gateway Interface Apache vulnerability from 2012 that would result in a buffer overflow. Another was A Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 vulnerability from 2016 that could result in a denial-of-service attack. There was also a SQL injection vulnerability in Drupal, the open-source CMS, from 2014. This vulnerability allowed attackers to remotely exploit Drupal without any need for authentication.

Consistent with WatchGuards Unified Security Platform approach and the WatchGuard Threat Labs previous quarterly research updates, the data analyzed in this quarterly report is based on anonymized, aggregated threat intelligence from active WatchGuard network and endpoint products whose owners have opted to share in direct support of WatchGuards research efforts.

For a more in-depth view of WatchGuards research, read the complete Q3 2023 Internet Security Report here: https://www.watchguard.com/wgrd-resource-center/security-report-q3-2023.

About WatchGuard Technologies, Inc.

WatchGuard Technologies, Inc. is a global leader in unified cybersecurity. Our Unified Security Platform approach is uniquely designed for managed service providers to deliver world-class security that increases their business scale and velocity while also improving operational efficiency. Trusted by more than 17,000 security resellers and service providers to protect more than 250,000 customers, the companys award-winning products and services span network security and intelligence, advanced endpoint protection, multi-factor authentication, and secure Wi-Fi. Together, they offer five critical elements of a security platform: comprehensive security, shared knowledge, clarity & control, operational alignment, and automation. The company is headquartered in Seattle, Washington, with offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America. To learn more, visit WatchGuard.com.





For additional information, promotions and updates, follow WatchGuard on Twitter (@WatchGuard), on Facebook, or on the LinkedIn Company page. Also, visit our InfoSec blog, Secplicity, for real-time information about the latest threats and how to cope with them at www.secplicity.org. Subscribe to The 443  Security Simplified podcast at Secplicity.org, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.

WatchGuard is a registered trademark of WatchGuard Technologies, Inc. All other marks are property of their respective owners.

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Pune, India, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global cyber security market size was valued at USD 153.65 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 424.97 billion in 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 13.8% during the forecast period. Increasing implementation of enterprise security solutions in manufacturing, Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI), and healthcare is expected to facilitate market development. Fortune Business Insights shares this information in its report titled Cyber Security Market Forecast, 2023-2030.





Request a Free Sample PDF:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/cyber-security-market-101165





Key Industry Development

Fortinet, Inc. launched the Cybercrime Atlas initiative to empower businesses, law enforcement, and threat intelligence researchers. It is taken up to stop cybercrime on a global scale. This initiative brings together world leaders to combat cyber threats, map the cybercrime landscape, and cover criminal activity, networks, and structures.

Key Takeaways

Network Security had Highest Share in 2023 Due to Increasing Number of Network Enterprises

Rapid Growth of Security Solutions across Healthcare and Government Sectors during Pandemic Led to Market Growth

Integration of Technologies such as the Internet of things (IoT), Machine Learning, and Cloud to Drive the Market Growth

Rising Number of E-commerce Platforms to Drive the Market Growth





Discover the Leading Players Featured in the Report:

Companies leading the Cyber Security Market share are Cisco Systems, Inc. (U.S.), IBM Corporation (U.S.), Fortinet, Inc. (U.S.), Proofpoint, Inc. (U.S.), Microsoft Corporation (U.S.), Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (U.S.), Zscaler, Inc. (U.S.), Broadcom, Inc. (U.S.), F5 Networks, Inc. (U.S.), Check Point Software Technologies (Israel), Sophos Ltd. (U.K.)





Report Scope & Segmentation

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 CAGR 13.8% 2030 Value Projection USD 424.97 Billion Base Year 2022 Cyber Security Market Size in 2022 USD 153.65 Billion Historical Data for 2019 to 2021 No. of Pages 160 Segments Covered Security Type, Enterprise Size, Industry and Geography





Browse Complete Report Details:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/cyber-security-market-101165





Drivers and Restraints

Rising Number of E-Commerce Platforms to Drive Market Trajectory

The rising number of e-commerce platforms and technological technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud, and block chain have amplified the internet security solutions in a connected network infrastructure. The governments of countries such as India, Germany, France, Israel, and Brazil, and others have been investing in internet security solutions to secure their huge volume of confidential data and information.

However, high cost of implementation and internet security solutions and services impede the adoption of cyber security solutions by SMEs, which is anticipated to hinder market development.





Segments

By Security Type

Network Security

Cloud Application Security

End-point Security

Secure Web Gateway

Application Security

Others

By Enterprise Size

Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Large Enterprises

By Industry

BFSI

IT and Telecommunications

Retail

Healthcare

Government

Manufacturing

Travel and Transportation

Energy and Utilities

Others

By Region

North America

South America

Europe

Middle East & Africa

Asia Pacific





Regional Insights

North America to Lead Market Due to Increasing Number of Online E-Commerce Platforms

North America is expected to dominate the cyber security market share as the demand for cloud-based security solutions rises and high-section security breaches are also on the rise. The market stood at USD 67.77 billion in 2022 due to increasing number of online e-commerce platforms, thereby boosting the cyber security market growth in the U.S. and Canada.

Europe is anticipated to have a notable CAGR due to increasing number of internet security projects and related investments by major companies in the U.K., Germany, Spain, France, Italy, and others.

Asia Pacific is also expected to witness significant growth due to increasing number of service providers, government investments, and foreign investors in various security projects.





Quick Buy - Cyber Security Market Research Report

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/101165





Competitive Landscape

Cisco Systems, Inc. Acquired Kenna Security, Inc. to Minimize the Attack Surface

Cisco Systems, Inc. has been focusing on enhancing its network capabilities by integrating various technologies such as machine learning and advanced analytics. Cisco Systems offers comprehensive internet security solutions based on network-related areas. In May 2021, Cisco Systems, Inc. acquired Kenna Security, Inc. to minimize the attack surface and the time it takes for identification and responding. Kenna's risk-based vulnerability management system is used to quickly detect, prioritize, and address cyber issues by working cross-functionally.





Related Reports:

Internet of Things (IoT) Market Size, Share, Trends, Growth

Artificial Intelligence Market Size, Share, Growth, Trends

Cloud Security Market Size, Share, Trends, Report Analysis

Cloud Gaming Market Size, Share, Analysis, Trends

Cloud Computing Market Size, Share, Growth 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.

US: +1 424 253 0390

UK: +44 2071 939123

APAC: +91 744 740 1245

Email: sales@fortunebusinessinsights.com

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Pune, India, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global Smart Home Market size was valued at USD 80.21 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 338.28 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 20.1% during the forecast period. Fortune Business Insights presents this information in their report titled "Global Smart Home Market Forecast, 2024-2030."





Request a Free Sample PDF: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/sample/smart-home-market-101900





Notable Industry Development:

January 2023 - Apple is developing a new tablet that is similar to its famous iPad but comes at a lower price, and an updated version of its Apple T.V. These efforts are being made to expand its footprint in the smart home market share. This development is being seen as a challenge to Google and Amazon, which are currently dominating the voice-enabled smart home device space.

Key Takeaways

Smart Home Market size in North America was USD 27.06 Billion in 2022

Surge in Adoption of Home Automation Amid COVID-19 Pandemic to Boost Market Growth

Increasing Deployment of Energy-efficient and Interoperable Smart Home Systems to Propel Market Growth

By Housing Type Analysis: Increasing Adoption of Apartments and Multifamily Dwellings to Support Market Growth





Discover the Leading Players Featured in the Report:

Companies leading the global Smart Home Market are Apple Inc. (U.S.), Amazon Inc. (U.S.), Centrica Connected Home Limited (U.K.), Emerson Electric Co. (U.S.), General Electric Company (U.S.), Honeywell International (U.S.), Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (South Korea), Schneider Electric SE (France), Sony Corporation (Japan), Johnson Controls (U.S.)





Report Scope & Segmentation

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 CAGR 20.1% 2030 Value Projection USD 338.28 billion Base Year 2022 Smart Home Market Size in 2022 USD 80.21 billion Historical Data for 2019 to 2021 No. of Pages 150 Segments Covered Device Type, Housing Type and Geography





Browse Complete Report Details: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/smart-home-market-101900





Drivers and Restraints:

Growing Usage of Internet of Things (IoT) Devices to Boost Market Expansion

IoT devices are becoming one of the critical drivers of the market growth. Homeowners can benefit from IoT-based devices as they possess energy-saving features. The GSMA Intelligence predicts that the global IoT connections will reach around 25 billion by 2025, an increase from 10.3 billion in 2018. This factor will also increase the clusters of sensors, devices, and things that will communicate through high-speed technology such as 5G. Such a strong penetration of IoT devices will support the market expansion.

Many leading companies are concentrating on developing IoT platforms and related technologies, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence, that can be integrated into smart appliances. This factor is predicted to expand the global market in the future.

The market might get hampered by the rising risk of cyberattacks in high-end connected technologies. There are several security threats that can hinder the deployment of smart home technologies. This factor might slow the market growth during the forecast period.





Segmentation

By Device Type

Safety and Security Devices

Energy and Water Control

Climate Control

Lighting Control

Consumer Electronics

By Housing Type

Multifamily Dwelling

Single Family Dwelling

By Region

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

South America





Regional Insights:

In terms of regions, the market is classified into North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.

North America may capture a sizeable market share during the forecast period. This growth is supported by the notable presence of major companies including Amazon Inc., Apple Inc., Honeywell International Ltd., and Sony Corporation in this market. Also, factors, such as increasing deployment of core communication technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Matter, NFC, and the upcoming 5G network, are boosting the market growth in the region.





Quick Buy - Smart Home Market Research Report:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/101900





Competitive Landscape:

Key Players to Develop Innovative Security and Energy Consumption Monitoring Devices

The major players in the market include Emerson Electric Co., Honeywell International, Schneider Electric S.E., and Samsung Group, amongst others. These organizations are investing in a wide range of R&D programs to offer advanced products and services to their clients.

For instance, in May 2021, Schneider Electric announced plans to incorporate the new 'Matter' connectivity standard and use the same in its connected home and buildings portfolio. The unified connection protocol, previously called CHIP (Connected Home over I.P.), was renamed as Matter, an open source technology than can adapt to a broader spectrum of smart building and home solutions. This interoperable technology can be used in lighting, speakers, security systems, locks, routers, and HVAC controls.





FAQs

How big is the Smart Home Market?

The Smart Home Market size was USD 80.21 billion in 2022. It is expected to reach USD 338.28 billion by 2030.

How fast is the Smart Home Market growing?

The Smart Home Market will exhibit a CAGR of 20.1% during the forecast period, 2023-2030.





Related Reports:

Smart Display Market Size, Share, Trends, Growth 2030

IoT Security Market Size, Share, Growth, Trends 2023





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.

US: +1 424 253 0390

UK: +44 2071 939123

APAC: +91 744 740 1245

Email: sales@fortunebusinessinsights.com

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MONTREAL, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Osisko Development Corp. (NYSE: ODV, TSXV: ODV) ("Osisko Development" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the commencement of an initial surface diamond drilling exploration campaign to test for copper-gold-molybdenum porphyry mineralization potential, at the Companys Big Hill target area (Figure 2), at its 100% owned Tintic Project ("Tintic" or the "Tintic Project"), located in the historic East Tintic Mining District in central Utah, U.S.A. Following receipt of the required surface drill permits, the Company mobilized a diamond drill rig from Major Drilling America of Salt Lake City, Utah, which arrived at site on December 1, 2023, and commenced drilling activities (Figure 1).

Sean Roosen, Chairman and CEO of Osisko Development, commented, "With the surface drill permits in hand, we are very excited to start drilling high-priority targets on the Tintic property for copper-gold porphyry potential at depth. There was previously no detailed work completed using modern exploration techniques in these areas and we expect the initial holes to provide us with invaluable information to support our understanding and interpretation of the entire Tintic district and its potential to host a copper-gold porphyry center."

PORPHYRY TARGET DRILLING

The Tintic District, located 65 kilometers (40 miles) from Rio Tinto's Bingham Canyon Mine, has historically been recognized as an area prospective for porphyry style copper-gold-molybdenum mineralization. Styles of mineralization and alteration present within the Tintic District support an interpretation of a classic porphyry-epithermal system with a high degree of rheologic and structural control on mineralization style and distribution (Figure 3).

Two large lithocaps, presented as anomalous surface geochemical footprints  a type of high heat signature indicative of potential significant subsurface volcanic activity  have been identified within the Company's Tintic Project property, namely in the Big Hill and Silver Pass areas (Figure 2).

An initial 3,000 meter (9,842 feet) of drilling in two holes comprises phase one of the surface diamond drilling program.

The objective of this surface drilling program is to test priority targets for a potential porphyry style copper-gold-molybdenum mineral system responsible for the significant high-grade gold and silver epithermal mineralization and past producing carbonate silver-lead-zinc replacement deposits on the Tintic property.

Recall, as noted in the Company's news release issued on October 11, 2023, drilling of the Trixie West (Figure 2) high-priority potential copper-gold-molybdenum porphyry target commenced in early October 2023 from underground at the Trixie test mine ("Trixie"). Approximately 70% of the target drill hole has been completed to date and is nearing the projected target zone (Figure 4).



REGIONAL EXPLORATION POTENTIAL

The Tintic Project is located within the historic Tintic mining district, a cluster of base and precious metal deposits covering greater than 200 square kilometres (~80 square miles) within the East Tintic Mountains of north-central Utah. Commonly divided into Main, East, North, and Southwest subdistricts, the greater Tintic District is collectively the second largest metal producing district in Utah following Bingham (Krahulec and Briggs, 2006).

Significant exploration potential exists for additional high sulphidation Au-Ag systems similar to Trixie, additional "fissure zones" adjacent to historic mines such as North Lily and Eureka Standard, historic Carbonate Replacement Deposits including Burgin, North Lily and Tintic Standard, and deep copper-gold-molybdenum porphyry targets associated with known lithocaps such as Big Hill, Silver Pass and Government Canyon, which have been scarcely explored by previous operators (Figure 2).

Figure 1: Diamond drill rig to test potential copper-gold porphyry mineralization set up at the Big Hill target at Tintic Project (December 2023)





Technical Report

Information relating to the Tintic Project and the current MRE for the Trixie deposit (the "Trixie MRE") is supported by the technical report titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report, Initial Mineral Resource Estimate for the Trixie Deposit, Tintic Project, Utah, United States of America", dated January 27, 2023 (with an effective date of January 10, 2023) prepared for the Company by independent representatives of Micon International Limited (the "Tintic Technical Report"). Reference should be made to the full text of the Tintic Technical Report, which was prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and is available electronically on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and on EDGAR (www.sec.gov) under Osisko Development's issuer profile and on the Company's website at www.osiskodev.com.

A 3D model and virtual site tour of Trixie and the wider Tintic Project is accessible on the Company's VRIFY page at: https://vrify.com/decks/12801.

Qualified Persons

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Maggie Layman, P.Geo., Vice President, Exploration of Osisko Development, and a "qualified person" within the meaning of NI 43-101.

Figure 2: Lithocap highlights of porphyry target areas and drill pad locations





Figure 3: Generalized conceptual deposit model of a high sulphidation epithermal porphyry system





Figure 4: Trixie West porphyry target drill hole status





ABOUT OSISKO DEVELOPMENT CORP.

Osisko Development Corp. is a premier North American gold development company focused on high-quality past-producing properties located in mining friendly jurisdictions with district scale potential. The Company's objective is to become an intermediate gold producer by advancing its 100%-owned Cariboo Gold Project, located in central B.C., Canada, the Tintic Project in the historic East Tintic mining district in Utah, U.S.A., and the San Antonio Gold Project in Sonora, Mexico. In addition to considerable brownfield exploration potential of these properties, that benefit from significant historical mining data, existing infrastructure and access to skilled labour, the Company's project pipeline is complemented by other prospective exploration properties. The Company's strategy is to develop attractive, long-life, socially and environmentally sustainable mining assets, while minimizing exposure to development risk and growing mineral resources.

For further information, visit our website at www.osiskodev.com or contact:

Sean Roosen Philip Rabenok Chairman and CEO Director, Investor Relations Email: sroosen@osiskodev.com Email: prabenok@osiskodev.com Tel: +1 (514) 940-0685 Tel: +1 (437) 423-3644

CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained in this news release may be deemed "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation (together, "forward-looking statements"). These forward-looking statements, by their nature, require Osisko Development to make certain assumptions and necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. Words such as "may", "will", "would", "could", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "continue", or the negative or comparable terminology, as well as terms usually used in the future and the conditional, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Information contained in forward-looking statements is based upon certain material assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a forecast or projection, including the assumptions, qualifications and limitations relating to the significance of the high-priority target drilling; the utility of modern exploration techniques; the potential of Tintic to host a copper-gold porphyry center; the significance of regional exploration potential; the results in the Tintic Technical Reports; the capital resources available to Osisko Development; the ability of the Company to execute its planned activities; the ability of the Company to obtain future financing and the terms of such financing; management's perceptions of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments; the utility and significance of historic data, including the significance of the district hosting past producing mines; future mining activities; the timing and status of permitting; the results (if any) of further exploration work to define and expand mineral resources; the ability of exploration work (including drilling) to accurately predict mineralization; the ability to generate additional drill targets; the ability of management to understand the geology and potential of the Company's properties; the ability of the Company to expand mineral resources beyond current mineral resource estimates; the ability of the Company to complete its exploration objectives for its projects in 2023-24 in the timing contemplated (if at all); the ongoing advancement of the deposits on the Company's properties; the deposit remaining open for expansion at depth and down plunge; the ability to realize upon any mineralization in a manner that is economic; the ability to adapt to changes in gold prices, estimates of costs, estimates of planned exploration and development expenditures; the ability of the Company to obtain further capital on reasonable terms; the profitability (if at all) of the Company's operations; the Company being a well-positioned gold development company in Canada, USA and Mexico; sustainability and environmental impacts of operations at the Company's properties; as well as other considerations that are believed to be appropriate in the circumstances, and any other information herein that is not a historical fact may be "forward looking information". Material assumptions also include, management's perceptions of historical trends, the ability of exploration (including drilling) to accurately predict mineralization, budget constraints and access to capital on terms acceptable to the Company, current conditions and expected future developments, regulatory framework remaining defined and understood, results of further exploration work to define or expand any mineral resources, as well as other considerations that are believed to be appropriate in the circumstances. Osisko Development considers its assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, but cautions the reader that their assumptions regarding future events, many of which are beyond the control of Osisko Development, may ultimately prove to be incorrect since they are subject to risks and uncertainties that affect Osisko Development and its business. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, risks relating to capital market conditions and the Company's ability to access capital on terms acceptable to the Company for the contemplated exploration and development at the Company's properties; the ability to continue current operations and exploration; regulatory framework and presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; the ability of exploration activities (including drill results) to accurately predict mineralization; errors in management's geological modelling; the ability to expand operations or complete further exploration activities; the timing and ability of the Company to obtain required approvals and permits; the results of exploration activities; risks relating to exploration, development and mining activities; the global economic climate; metal and commodity prices; fluctuations in the currency markets; dilution; environmental risks; and community, non-governmental and governmental actions and the impact of stakeholder actions. Readers are urged to consult the disclosure provided under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2022 as well as the financial statements and MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2022, which have been filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under Osisko Development's issuer profile and on the SEC's EDGAR website (www.sec.gov), for further information regarding the risks and other factors applicable to the exploration results. Although the Company's believes the expectations conveyed by the forward-looking statements are reasonable based on information available as of the date hereof, no assurances can be given as to future results, levels of activity and achievements. 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 law. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance and there can be no assurance that these forward-looking 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.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.
Dublin, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Cell Line Development Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product & Services (Reagents And Media, Equipment), By Source (Mammalian, Non-mammalian), By Type of Cell Line, By Source, By Application, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global cell line development market size is expected to reach USD 10.09 billion by 2030 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 9.81% from 2023 to 2030

One of the primary factors driving the expansion of the cell line development (CLD) market is an increase in vaccine production around the world, especially after the spread of coronavirus. Rising use of new healthcare technology and rising cancer incidences, create more attractive and lucrative growth prospects for the CLD market. The expansion and growth of the biologics sector will also be a major CLD market development determinant.





The increasing product launches of technologically improved products for CLD are likely to drive market expansion. For example, CYTENA, a BICO subsidiary, introduced a new platform for entirely automated stable cell line development in October 2021.

To enable cost-effective and better laboratory automation, the system integrates CYTENA's best-in-class liquid handling information with its existing established single-cell dispensing technology. BICO's Bio Convergence agenda is advanced through the broadening of accessibility to the advancement of next-generation medical services such as antibody treatments, gene therapies, and biosimilar production.



Moreover, according to the July 2021 Pharma Manufacturing Updates, approximately 20 drugs, comprising a few blockbusters including Novartis' Entresto & Biogen's Spinraza, are going to have their patents scheduled to expire in 2023. The expiration of branded pharmaceuticals has resulted in the creation of biosimilars. As a result, the requirement for cell line development is increasing. Thus, it will drive the market growth.



Furthermore, the growing company strategies such as collaboration, expansion, and acquisitions are also driving the market growth. For instance, ProBioGen and Granite Bio collaborated in July 2022 to provide GMP manufacturing & cell line development solutions and support Granite Bio's mAb pipeline development. Similarly, in June 2022, FUJIFILM Corporation announced a USD 1.6 billion investment to improve and expand the cell culture production capabilities of FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies.

Furthermore, in October 2022, Cytiva, acquired CEVEC Pharmaceuticals, a prominent German producer of advanced CLD & viral vector manufacturing technology. Through this development, CEVEC will help Cytiva maintain its leadership position in biomanufacturing technologies.



However, the high capital expenses and expenditure needed to construct research and development capabilities would be a barrier to the cell line development industry.



Cell Line Development Market Report Highlights

By product, the reagents and media segment accounted for the largest share of 43.78% in 2022. Due to their cost-intensive nature and frequent use in the manufacturing of biologics, these items account for the biggest revenue share.

By source, the mammalian cell line segment accounted for the largest share of 72.62% in 2022.Its rapid expansion is a result of the effective manufacture of biopharmaceuticals by mammalian cell lines, as they are able to express complex proteins that are identical to those found in humans.

By type of cell line, the recombinant cell lines companies segment accounted for the largest share of 31.79% in 2022 due to its widespread application in biologics manufacturing processes, gene activation, including protein interactions.

By application, the bioproduction segment held the largest market share of 46.30% in 2022. Factors such as increased in-vitro research activities, product safety and efficacy concerns, the demand for biosimilars, and rising demand for cellular therapies are driving the bioproduction industry.

North America held the larger share of 39.22% in 2022 due to the presence of constant technological improvements followed by new discoveries sparking the adoption of newer processes for bioproduction. The presence of rigorous activities carried out by research businesses operating in this region, such as Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Sigma-Aldrich Corporation, and American Type Culture Collection (ATCC), which provide high-quality CLD services, is contributing to growth.

Competitive Landscape

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.

Danaher

Merck KGaA

Sartorius AG

Lonza

WuXi PharmaTech

Advanced Instruments

Berkeley Lights

Creative BioLabs

Corning Inc.

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 180 Forecast Period 2022 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $4.81 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $10.09 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 9.8% Regions Covered Global

Key Topics Covered:



Chapter 1. Methodology and Scope



Chapter 2. Executive Summary

2.1. Market Outlook

2.2. Segment Snapshot

2.3. Competitive Landscape Snapshot



Chapter 3. Market Variables, Trends, & Scope

3.1. Market Lineage Outlook

3.1.1. Parent Market Outlook

3.1.2. Related/Ancillary Market Outlook

3.2. Market Trends and Outlook

3.3. Market Dynamics

3.3.1. Patent expiration of blockbuster biologics

3.3.2. Rising demand for monoclonal antibodies

3.3.3. Increasing vaccine production

3.3.4. Technological advancement for the cell line development

3.3.5. Increasing prevalence of cancer

3.3.6. Growing R&D investments in biotechnology sector

3.4. Market Restraint Analysis

3.4.1. Presence of complicated regulatory framework

3.5. Business Environment Analysis

3.5.1. PESTEL Analysis

3.5.2. Porter's Five Forces Analysis

3.5.3. COVID-19 Impact Analysis



Chapter 4. Product & Services Business Analysis

4.1. Global cell line development market: Product & Services Movement Analysis

4.2. Reagents and media

4.2.1. Reagents and media Market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

4.3. Equipment

4.3.1. Equipment Market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

4.3.2. Automated Systems

4.3.3. Centrifuges

4.3.4. Bioreactors

4.3.5. Storage equipment

4.3.6. Others

4.4. Accessories and consumables

4.5. Services



Chapter 5. Source Business Analysis

5.1. Global cell line development market: Source Movement Analysis

5.2. Mammalian cell line

5.2.1. Mammalian cell line Market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

5.3. Non-mammalian cell line

5.3.1. Non-mammalian cell line Market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

5.3.2. Insects

5.3.3. Amphibians



Chapter 6. Type of Cell Lines Business Analysis

6.1. Global cell line development market: Type of Cell Lines Movement Analysis

6.2. Recombinant cell lines

6.2.1. Recombinant cell lines Market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

6.3. Hybridomas

6.4. Continuous cell lines

6.5. Primary cell lines



Chapter 7. Application Business Analysis

7.1. Global cell line development market: Application Movement Analysis

7.2. Bioproduction

7.2.1. Bioproduction Market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

7.3. Drug discovery

7.4. Toxicity testing

7.5. Tissue engineering



Chapter 8. Regional Business Analysis

8.1. Global Cell line development market Share By Region, 2022 & 2030



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/honmoi

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Dublin, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Asia-Pacific Medical X-Ray Detectors Market - Analysis and Forecast, 2022-2032" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Asia-Pacific region is witnessing a significant surge in the medical X-ray detectors market. The market, which stood at $508.2 million in 2022, is forecasted to expand to an impressive $913.7 million by 2032 with a CAGR of 6.04% through the forecast period. This can be attributed to the rising cases of chronic illnesses, advancements in X-ray detector technologies, and the incorporation of advanced materials for enhanced dosage management.

Market Developments Underpinning Expansion

A crucial factor propelling the growth of the medical X-Ray detectors market in APAC is the increased prevalence of chronic diseases coupled with advancements in medical imaging technologies. There is a shift towards early, precise diagnosis, and the adoption of state-of-the-art digital X-ray detectors is on the rise, owing to their improved imaging quality, rapid processing times, and minimized radiation exposure. These technological advancements are replacing traditional film-based systems, leading to heightened demand for modern detectors.

Diverse Applications Fuelling Growth

The market for medical X-Ray detectors is broadly segmented by product, application, modality, module type, and end user. The diversification encompasses flat-panel detectors, charge-coupled device detectors, and computed radiography detectors. Applications are split between medical and dental uses, with systems differentiating further into portable and fixed detector modalities.

Strategic Approaches by Market Participants

Market players in the Asia-Pacific medical X-Ray detectors sector are actively engaging in R&D investments to roll out innovative, cost-effective products, thereby contributing to the overall expansion of healthcare imaging. Business strategies employed involve regulatory activities, alliances, partnerships, and business expansions targeting legal aspects to consolidate market presence.

Competitive Landscape

An array of established and emerging entities operate within the Asia-Pacific market, contributing to its dynamism. A detailed benchmarking of these competitors presents a lucid depiction of the market layout, while the study embodies a gamut of strategies like partnerships, agreements, and collaborations. These acknowledgments are vital for stakeholders in deciphering underexploited market segments and driving informed decision-making.

Key market players include:

Canon Inc.

DRTECH

FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation

Hamamatsu Photonics K.K.

iRay Technology

Konica Minolta, Inc.

Rayence

This report answers pivotal questions regarding market dynamics, segmentation analysis, and competitive strategies, thereby offering critical insights into the APAC medical X-Ray detectors market.

The in-depth analysis holds implications for hospitals, clinics, diagnostic centers, and other healthcare facilities investing in advanced imaging technologies across China, Japan, India, Australia, and other Asia-Pacific countries. It underscores the increasingly vital role of enhanced X-ray detectors in the burgeoning healthcare sector of this diverse and rapidly developing region.



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/mxoboc

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Charleston, SC, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to the NHS, over 1 in 10 women who give birth are affected with postpartum depression. Despite its commonality, it remains a crippling mental health issue for many mothers.

Shirley Motorca understands firsthand the exhausting, paralyzing role that postpartum depression can play. She invites readers on an intimate journey in her newest book, Don't Ever Let Go: Finding Freedom in Christ Amidst the Trials of Postpartum Depression, that takes readers from the lowest point of her postpartum depression to the freedom found in her identity in Christ.

Motorca takes special care in chronicling the darkness that tried to consume her, the divine intervention that saved her life, and the clear fact she knows to be true: theres no crevice in your life too far removed or shadowed that the light of God cannot reach.

Written to inspire hope for women  especially first-time moms  Dont Ever Let Go is a sound book to buy for the new, faithful, or struggling mom in your life. Motorca hopes her book provides faith-filled guidance, supports struggling moms, and communicates that you are never walking alone.

Don't Ever Let Go: Finding Freedom in Christ Amidst the Trials of Postpartum Depression is available for purchase online at Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com. For more information about the author, please visit any of her social media platforms:

Facebook: Shirley Motorca

Instagram: @shirleymotorca

About the Author:

Shirley Motorca, born in Indonesia and raised in Ormond Beach, Florida, is a former court reporter turned inspirational author. Married to fashion designer Daniel Motorca, they have two boys and reside in Jacksonville, Florida. Shirley's love for family, reading, and her personal encounter with God through postpartum depression is beautifully chronicled in her spiritual memoir, Dont Ever Let Go.

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OTTAWA, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Canadian Propane Association (CPA) is extremely disappointed that the Senate of Canada has amended Bill C-234 delaying, possibly indefinitely, changes that would have reduced farming costs.



This Bill should have been passed, said Shannon Watt, President and CEO of the CPA. Diesel and gasoline are already exempt from the carbon tax under the regulations, and it makes no sense that low-emission energy sources like propane and natural gas were excluded. This Private Members Bill was to correct that oversight but unfortunately, other agendas were at play.

C-234 represents a saving of almost $1 billion on carbon taxes for farmers between now and 2030. Those savings are very much in doubt with the changes to the Bill.

Bill C-234 expanded eligible farm applications to include heating or cooling barns. The amendment to C-234 passed in the Senate on Tuesday removes heating or cooling of farm buildings as eligible costs. Once the amended legislation is passed in the Senate it must then go back to the House of Commons where many fear it will languish.

At a time when Canadians need to pay less for their groceries, removing the carbon tax on propane and natural gas would have been welcomed by the farming community and consumers, said Watt. In the end, any delay in passing C-234 represents a lost opportunity to reduce costs and emissions on Canadas farms.

About the Canadian Propane Association



The Canadian Propane Association (CPA) is the national association for a growing, multi-billion-dollar industry that impacts the livelihood of tens of thousands of Canadians. As the trusted voice of the propane industry, the CPA creates the conditions for responsible market growth through advocacy, training, and emergency response.

For More Information, contact:

Tammy Hirsch

Sr. Director, Communications and Marketing

Email: media@propane.ca or Phone: 587-349-5876
Toronto, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LifeLabs, Canada's leading provider of medical diagnostic services, is proud to unveil the 2022 Community Report titled "Committed to Care." This report highlights the incredible journey of our dedicated team over the past year, exemplifying our dedication to the health and well-being of Canadians.

"Committed to Care" is a testament to LifeLabs' core values, emphasizing our unwavering commitment to creating a positive impact on society and our colleagues. This comprehensive report showcases the remarkable accomplishments of the LifeLabs team in 2022 and how our people make great things happen, empower and celebrate each other, energize and support our communities, build and sustain innovation, and reach out and care for our customers.

In the words of our President and CEO, Charles Brown, "Our people are what make LifeLabs a great place to work. In 2022, when we received recognition as one of the most trusted brands in health diagnostics in Canada, it was a testament to the trust Canadians have in our exceptional team. It's why we've put significant effort into honouring and celebrating our people in this year's Community Report. It is truly their dedication, agility, and tenacity that make us a stronger and more elevated organization."

Key highlights from the report include:

Fostering a Culture of Support and Recognition: LifeLabs celebrated various milestones, nurturing a culture that appreciates and supports our team.

LifeLabs celebrated various milestones, nurturing a culture that appreciates and supports our team. Investing in Communities: In 2022, LifeLabs continued to support local initiatives, making a tangible difference in the communities we serve.

In 2022, LifeLabs continued to support local initiatives, making a tangible difference in the communities we serve. Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation: The report delves into the innovative strides made in healthcare, ensuring Canadians have access to state-of-the-art medical solutions.

The report delves into the innovative strides made in healthcare, ensuring Canadians have access to state-of-the-art medical solutions. Unwavering Commitment to Customer Care: LifeLabs' commitment to providing top-tier care and service to our valued customers across Canada is evident in our stories.

LifeLabs' commitment to providing top-tier care and service to our valued customers across Canada is evident in our stories. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Initiatives: LifeLabs' commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity within our organization continues to grow.

We invite you to join us in celebrating a year of achievements and dedication! Explore the complete "Committed to Care" report by clicking on the following link: https://www.lifelabs.com/community-report/

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CRANBURY, N.J., Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The American Journal of Managed Care (AJMC), the leading multimedia peer-reviewed journal dedicated to issues in managed care, is thrilled to announce its upcoming Institute for Value-Based Medicine (IVBM) event, which will be held on December 13 at Tampa Marriott Water Street in Tampa, Florida. The event, Shaping the Future of Cancer Care: A New Era of Innovative Therapies, will bring together health care professionals, experts and thought leaders to explore the exciting and transformative topic of the future of cancer care.



The event will feature a panel of health care experts who will present on the latest innovations in the value-based care and oncology practice landscapes.

The event will include the following sessions:

Precision Medicine Developments in Solid Tumor Tiago Biachi de Castria, M.D., Ph.D.

Innovative Therapies in Radiation Oncology Jessica Frakes, M.D.

CAR T, TIL, BiTEs Dae Kim, M.D.

Value-Based Perspectives in Cancer Care Asmita Mishra, M.D., MBA

Value-Based Medicine Panel Moderator: Asmita Mishra, M.D., MBA Panelists: Donn W. Davis, PharmD, M.H.A., BCPS; Joseph Mirrow





Attendees will have the unique opportunity to hear firsthand as experts in the field discuss cutting-edge and innovative therapies that are shaping the landscape of cancer treatment. Participants will be able to expand their professional network by connecting with peers and engaging with the esteemed chairs and faculty of the event. This networking opportunity is designed to facilitate collaboration and create lasting connections within the oncology community. The event will feature thought leaders who will share insights and experiences, providing attendees with a holistic understanding of the latest trends and advancements in the field.

To learn more about the event, please visit the Shaping the Future of Cancer Care: A New Era of Innovative Therapies event page.

About The American Journal of Managed Care

The American Journal of Managed Care (AJMC) is a multimedia, peer-reviewed, MEDLINE-indexed journal that keeps industry leaders on the forefront of health policy by sharing digital research relevant to industry decision-makers. Other brands in the AJMC family include The American Journal of Accountable Care and Evidence-Based Oncology. These comprehensive, multimedia brands bring together views from payers, providers, policymakers and other industry leaders in managed care. AJMC is a brand of MJH Life Sciences, the largest privately held, independent, full-service medical media company in North America dedicated to delivering trusted health care news across multiple channels.

Media Contact:

Julia Paradizova

MJH Life Sciences

jparadizova@mjhlifesciences.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/eafd60a7-23ba-455c-af05-87632d7260f7
MONTREAL, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CN (TSX: CNR) (NYSE: CNI) today announced that it has signed and closed an agreement to acquire Iowa Northern Railway (IANR), which operates approximately 275 track miles in Iowa connecting to CNs U.S. rail network. The transaction closed into an independent voting trust pending regulatory review of the transaction by the U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB).



IANR serves upper Midwest agricultural and industrial markets covering many goods, including biofuels and grain. This transaction represents a meaningful opportunity to support the growth of local business by creating single-line service to North American destinations, while preserving access to existing carrier options.

We are delighted to have reached an agreement with Iowa Northern Railway. We look forward to the opportunities our combined network will provide customers, farmers, and our partners to respond to the needs of their existing and new markets. By enabling all of us to play an even more important role in this critical supply chain and densifying our southern network, we are accelerating sustainable, profitable growth.

- Tracy Robinson, President and Chief Executive Officer at CN

We are very pleased to have reached a deal with CN. We believe CN shares IANRs commitment to local stakeholders and that this transaction will be beneficial for customers, employees and the local Iowa economy. We are confident that, as part of CN, IANR will be able to continue to provide reliable first and last mile service to our local customers while providing them access to a much broader network and market.

- Daniel Sabin, Chairman at Iowa Northern Railway

The terms of this transaction were not disclosed. An STB decision regarding the transaction is expected in 2024.

About CN

CN is a world-class transportation leader and trade enabler. Essential to the economy, to the customers, and to the communities it serves, CN safely transports more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year. CNs network connects Canadas Eastern and Western coasts with the U.S. South through an 18,600-mile rail network, CN and its affiliates have been contributing to community prosperity and sustainable trade since 1919. CN is committed to programs supporting social responsibility and environmental stewardship.

About Iowa Northern Railway

The Iowa Northern, based in Waterloo, is a critical transportation network in Iowa, facilitating high levels of economic development for the communities it serves. The company has been long regarded as one of the countrys premier and fastest-growing independent shortline railroads led by the Sabin family.

CN Forward-looking Statements

Certain statements by CN included in this news release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and under Canadian securities laws. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions, such as the risk that the IANR transaction, which is subject to regulatory approval, not be completed. CN cautions that its assumptions may not materialize and that current economic conditions render such assumptions, although reasonable at the time they were made, subject to greater uncertainty. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of terminology such as believes, expects, anticipates, assumes, outlook, plans, targets, or other similar words. Forward-looking statements reflect information as of the date on which they are made. CN assumes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect future events, changes in circumstances, or changes in beliefs, unless required by applicable securities laws. In the event CN does update any forward-looking statement, no inference should be made that CN will make additional updates with respect to that statement, related matters, or any other forward-looking statement. Reference should be made to Managements Discussion and Analysis in CNs annual and interim reports, Annual Information Form and Form 40-F, filed with Canadian and U.S. securities regulators and available on CNs website, for a description of major risk factors.

Contacts :
Toronto, December 5, 2023 - Trojan Gold Inc. (CSE: TGII) (the "Company" or "Trojan") is pleased to announce that, further to the press release of the Company dated November 14, 2023, it has issued 100,000 common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Shares") to Jon Li, the Chief Financial Officer of the Company, at a price of $0.05 per Share, in exchange for outstanding accounts payable totaling $5,000.00 owing to Mr. Li.

The Shares will be subject to a four-month and one-day hold period.

The issuance of the Shares to Mr. Li constitutes a "related party transaction" as such term is defined by Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company has relied on the exemptions from the MI 61-101 valuation and minority approval requirements for related party transactions in connection with the issuance of the Shares that are set out in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 as neither the fair market value (as determined under MI 61-101) of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the issuance of the Shares, exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization (as determined under MI 61-101).

About Trojan Gold Inc.

Trojan is an active Ontario-based prospect generator junior exploration company, led by a team of professionals having exploration, engineering, project financing and permitting experience. Trojan has accumulated land positions in the Hemlo Gold Camp and Shebandowan Greenstone Belt which in management's view represent mineral exploration potential. For further information on the Company, please visit www.trojangold.com. Trojan is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol (CSE: TGII), on the OTC Pink Market under the ticker symbol TRJGF and on the Frankfurt Exchange under the symbol KC1.

For further information, please contact:

Charles J. Elbourne, President & CEO

Trojan Gold Inc.

82 Richmond St. East, Suite 401

Toronto, Ontario M5C 1P1

Telephone: 416-315-6490

Email: elbourne007@gmail.com

Website: www.trojangold.com

Further Information

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 these securities, in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements contained herein that are not clearly historical in nature may constitute forward-looking information. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by words or phrases such as "may", "will", "expect", "likely", "should", "would", "plan", "anticipate", "intend", "potential", "proposed", "estimate", "believe" or the negative of these terms, or other similar words, expressions, and grammatical variations thereof, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" happen, or by discussions of strategy. Forward-looking information contained in this press release includes, but is not limited to, statements relating to the future potential of the Company's mineral properties.

Where the Company expresses or implies an expectation or belief as to future events or results, such expectation or belief is based on assumptions made in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis. Such assumptions include, without limitation, that the Company will have the resources, financial and otherwise, required to complete exploration activities on its properties as currently anticipated or at all.

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: the risk that the Company will not be able to proceed with anticipated exploration activities on its properties as anticipated or at all; risks relating to the junior mining industry; global economic trends; and other risks as described in the Company's public disclosure record at www.sedarplus.ca.

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 are based on the beliefs, estimates, expectations, and opinions of management on such date. 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 or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking information, except as required under applicable securities law. Readers are cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties, and potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/189920
Toronto, December 5, 2023 - Pedro Resources Ltd. (CSE: VBN) ("Pedro" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it intends to complete a non-brokered private placement (the "Offering") for gross proceeds of up to $600,000 through the issuance of up to 12,000,000 common shares (each a "Common Share") in the capital of the Company at a price of $0.05 per Common Share.

Eligible persons ("Finders") may receive commissions in the form of cash equal to up to 7% of the gross proceeds raised by such Finders. Proceeds from the Offering will be used by the Company for working capital and for other general and administrative purposes in connection with the Company's proposed change of business, as more fully described in the Company's press release dated November 3, 2023.

All securities issued pursuant to the Offering will be subject to a four month hold period from the date of issue. Closing of the Offering is subject to all customary regulatory and board approvals of the Company.

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 as defined under applicable United States securities laws unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

Appointment of Advisor

The Company is pleased to announce the appointment of Dusty McKinnon as an advisor to the board and management of the Company.

Mr. McKinnon is a seasoned entrepreneur and innovator with a track record of developing disruptive technologies. He has successfully developed innovative technologies from conception to commercialization on multiple occasions. Mr. McKinnon and his team developed solutions for Oil & Gas wastewater treatment and management. He was also instrumental in the commercialization of a grid-scale battery technology and has developed waste to resource platforms and products for the agricultural industry. He holds a BCom from Royal Roads University, Canada, and an MBA from The Power School of Business, Madrid, and continues to study the Soil Food Web.

The Company is confident that Mr. McKinnon's passion for the environment and soil health and ability to drive innovation to commercialization will help propel the Company as a leader in bioengineering.

About Pedro Resources Ltd.

Pedro Resources Ltd. is a Canadian exploration company listed on the CSE focused on mineral exploration and development.

For further information, contact:

On behalf of the Board,

Brian Stecyk

Chief Executive Officer and Director

Tel: 780-953-0111

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forwardlooking statements and forwardlooking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forwardlooking statements or information. More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forwardlooking statements and information relating to the Offering, the Consolidation and the Company's proposed name change and change of business.

The forwardlooking statements and information are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by management of the Company. Although management of the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements and information are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forwardlooking statements and information since no assurance can be given that they will prove to be correct.

Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about the current expectations and plans of management of the Company relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such statements and information may not be appropriate for other purposes, such as making investment decisions. Since forwardlooking statements and information address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forwardlooking statements and information contained in this news release. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive.

The forwardlooking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and no undertaking is given to update publicly or revise any forwardlooking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/189973
Vancouver, December 5, 2023 - Gold\'n Futures Mineral Corp. (CSE:FUTR) (FSE:G6M), (OTC:GFTRF) (the "Company" or "Gold'n Futures") announced that it has entered into debt settlement agreements (the "Settlement Agreements") to settle outstanding cash payments owed to two creditors (the "Creditors") totaling $76,000 for legal, accounting and corporate administration fees. Pursuant to the Settlement Agreements, the Company has agreed to issue an aggregate of 7,600,000 common shares ("Shares") at a deemed price of $0.01 per Share, based on a 20-day VWAP. The Company anticipates closing the Settlement Agreements on or about December 11, 2023.

The board of directors of the Company has determined that it is in the best interests of the Company to settle the outstanding debts by the issuance of the Shares in order to preserve the Company's cash for working capital.

The Company will be relying on the "Employee, Executive Officer, Director and Consultant" exemption contained in section 2.24 (the "Exemption") of NI 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions, to issue the Shares to the Creditors. Securities issued under the Exemption are subject to a seasoning period, however they are not subject to a 4 month and 1 day resale restriction.

One Settlement Agreement in the amount of $46,000 is with Fish Purdy LLP., a company partially controlled by Matthew Fish, a director of the Company, and accordingly this is a "related party transaction" as such term is defined by Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company will rely on the exemption from formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements set out in MI 61-101 as the fair market value of the transaction does not exceed 25% of the market capitalization of the Company, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101.

About Gold'n Futures Mineral Corp.

Gold\'n Futures Mineral Corp. (CSE: FUTR) (FSE: G6M) (OTC: GFTRF) is a mineral exploration company with two advanced Canadian gold projects. The Hercules Gold Project is 195 km northeast of Thunder Bay, Ontario in the Beardmore - Geraldton gold mining camp. It is 54 km north west of Equinox Gold's Greenstone gold mine that reportedly boasts 5.5 million ounces of Proven and Probable Reserves (https://www.equinoxgold.com/growth-projects/greenstone-project/). The Hercules Property consists of 425 contiguous claims (11,370 ha). From the historical and its current work, the Company has built a comprehensive database and model and is preparing a new Mineral Resource Estimate based upon current and historical drilling totalling the order of 537 holes comprising 114,000 m of core.

The Brady-Huxter Gold Project is in Central Newfoundland, 50 km southeast of the town of Gander. The Brady-Huxter property consists of nine mineral licenses, which cover 2,350 ha and contains two large porphyry-hosted gold deposits, the Reid and Mosquito Hill. These deposits have a combined drill-defined historical resource estimate of 59.5 million tonnes containing 938,753 oz of indicated and inferred gold mineralization (see Gold'n Futures news of October 16, 2023).

Gold'n Futures is conducting programs to expand its gold resources and to develop viable gold mining operations through the application of extensive geological experience and knowledge combined with advanced technologies and computer modeling.

For more information, please visit our website at: www.goldnfuturesmineralcorp.com

On behalf of the Board of Directors

For further information

Stephen Wilkinson,

President and CEO,

Email: stephen@goldnfutures.com

Ph: +1.236.886.8808

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor the Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release contains forward-looking statements that constitute forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements in this news release that are not purely historical statements of fact are forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the successful issuance of the common shares and the extinguishment of the debt. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable and reflect expectations of future developments and other factors which management believes to be reasonable and relevant, the Company can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: "believes", "expects", "aim", "anticipates", "intends", "estimates", "plans", "may", "should", "would", "will", "potential", "scheduled" or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions, which, by their nature, refer to future events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, assumptions, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, and includes those risks described in the Company's Listing Statement dated August 19, 2020 and the Company's management's discussion & analysis for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2022, copies of which are available under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, unless required by applicable law, the Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in these forward-looking statements.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements in this news release except as otherwise required by law.

Copyright (c) 2023 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
TSX SYMBOL: FCU

OTCQX SYMBOL: FCUUF

FRANKFURT SYMBOL: 2FU

First new exploration program since 2017 will focus on Patterson Corridor

KELOWNA, Dec. 6, 2023 - Fission Uranium Corp. ("Fission" or the "Company") is pleased to announce preparations are underway for a 13-hole, ~6,000m winter exploration program at its award-winning PLS high-grade uranium project in Canada's Athabasca Basin. The drill program will focus on seven high priority exploration target areas along the Patterson Lake Corridor. It is anticipated that the drill program will commence by mid-January, 2024.

Ross McElroy, President, and CEO for Fission, commented, "We are preparing our first pure exploration drill program since commencing mine and mill development at the PLS high-grade uranium project. Fission Uranium won multiple awards for the Triple R discovery at PLS, and our team of veteran uranium explorers, led by VP of Exploration, Kanan Sarioglu, is second to none. With most of our large property underexplored, we believe the potential exists for further major discoveries, and this will be the primary focus of winter exploration."

"We do of course have an incredible deposit currently advancing towards production. Importantly, this deposit remains open in multiple directions and along trend, so we will also be investigating the potential for new mineralized zones along strike and parallel to the Triple R. Our team is hard at work on drill targeting and site preparation, and we expect drill rigs on site in early 2024."

Target Area Details: Patterson Lake Corridor

The Patterson Lake Corridor is a large east northeast - west southwest trending conductive lithological-structural corridor and hosts some of the Athabasca Basin's most economically important uranium deposits, including Fission's Triple R and NexGen's Arrow deposits. Airborne and ground geophysical surveys have identified a number of discrete basement hosted electromagnetic "EM" conductors, that are approximately parallel to the trend of the corridor. These EM conductors are often interpreted to represent graphitic shear zones, and Athabasca-type structurally controlled uranium deposits, such as the Triple R deposit, are often associated within favorable locations along such graphitic shear zones. Seven discrete target areas have been selected to be tested as part of the winter 2024 regional exploration program.

Pistol Target: Located on the northern side of the Patterson Lake Corridor and ~450m northwest of the Triple R's R780E zone, the target area is associated with a coincident 400m long radon in water anomaly and where the interpretation from an airborne geophysical survey suggests a similar signature and spatial relationship between NexGen's Arrow and Arrow South to the Pistol target and the Triple R deposit, respectively. Historic nearby drilling in 2014 intersected broad zones of anomalous uranium and boron up-dip of the target zone, which may be reflecting mineralization at depth. Two holes in 1,550m will test this encouraging target.

Holster Target: Located on the northern side of the Patterson Lake Corridor and ~600m north of the R840W, this target will test an area where historical drilling intersected anomalous uranium and boron concentrations in a strongly graphitic shear zone. Similar to the Pistol target, drilling will test for deeper uranium mineralization along the northeast-southwest EM conductor where a sharp conductivity thickness gradient occurs coincident with an interpreted north-northeast cross-cutting fault. One drillhole is planned at this target, totaling 600m.

East Extension Target: Located in the central region of the Patterson Lake Corridor, the target area is ~900m east of the easternmost R1620E zone along the same EM conductor that hosts the Triple R deposit. The nearest historical drillhole to this target is PLS14-152, a vertical drillhole located approximately 140m to the west which intersected a silicified zone overlying an apparently thick, unaltered, graphitic shear zone. A sharp conductivity gradient is now being targeted east of PLS14-152, interpreted to reflect hydrothermal alteration associated with uranium mineralization and the destruction of graphite within the shear zone. One drillhole is planned at this target, with an estimated total depth of 330m.

Bridle & Saddle Targets: These two target areas are located ~1.4km west and 2.9km west, respectively, of the R1515W zone, along strike of the Triple R deposit. Prospective features present at both target areas include a northeast trending EM conductor that is crosscut by an interpreted north-northeast trending cross fault. There is also a sharp conductivity gradient near the cross faults and as with other drill targets previously described, this is interpreted to reflect the destruction of graphite by hydrothermal alteration which may be associated with uranium mineralization. Three drillholes are planned at these targets, totaling 960m.

Far West Targets: The Far West targets are located ~3.7km and 4.2km west of the R1515W zone. Prospective features present at both of target areas include a northeast trending EM conductor that is crosscut by an interpreted north-northeast trending resistivity structure. No historic drilling has ever been conducted in this area and thus, the Far West targets are completely untested. Two drillholes are planned at these targets, totaling 630m.

Saloon Target: The Saloon target area is located ~5km to the SW of the Triple R deposit where historical drilling encountered the most anomalous uranium concentrations on the PLS property outside of the Triple R deposit. Three drillholes will target uranium mineralization down-dip and on-strike of historical drillhole PLS17-550 (5.0m @ 0.011% U 3 O 8 including 0.5m @ 0.03% U 3 O 8 ). An additional drillhole is planned along trend 3km to the northeast, testing the intersection of a major north-south trending interpreted fault zone and the PLG-4A EM conductor. Historical drilling by Fission along the PLG-4A EM conductor in 2015 and 2016 intersected intense hydrothermal alteration and brittle-ductile deformation which the Company considers comparable to the hanging wall of the Triple R deposit. Approximately 500m west along trend of this drillhole, and within the Saloon target area, a single radon in water sample was collected from a small spring in 2008 which returned a highly anomalous value 162 pCi/L. For comparison, the highest radon in water value recorded over the Triple R deposit was 14.4 pCi/L. A total of 4 holes in 1,930m are planned for this target area. All of the planned drillholes at the Saloon target are interpreted to be within a major interpreted shear zone that may represent the true southern boundary of the Patterson Lake Corridor.

PLS Mineralized Trend & Triple R Deposit Summary

Uranium mineralization of the Triple R deposit at PLS occurs within the Patterson Lake Conductive Corridor and has been traced by core drilling over ~3.18km of east-west strike length in five separated mineralized "zones", which collectively make up the Triple R deposit. From west to east, these zones are R1515W, R840W, R00E, R780E and R1620E. Through successful exploration programs completed to date, Triple R has evolved into a large, near-surface, basement-hosted, structurally controlled high-grade uranium deposit. The discovery hole was announced on November 05, 2012, with drill hole PLS12-022 from what is now referred to as the R00E zone.

The R1515W, R840W and R00E zones make up the western region of the Triple R deposit and are located on land, where overburden thickness is generally between 55 m to 100 m. R1515W is the westernmost of the zones and is drill defined to ~90m in strike length, ~68m across strike and ~220m vertical and where mineralization remains open in several directions. R840W is located ~515m to the east along the strike of R1515W and has a drill-defined strike length of ~430m. R00E is located ~485m to the east along strike of R840W and is drill defined to ~115m in strike length. The R780E and R1620E zones make up the eastern region of the Triple R deposit. Both zones are located beneath Patterson Lake, where water depth is generally less than six metres, and overburden thickness is generally about 50m. R780E is located ~225m to the east of R00E and has a drill-defined strike length of ~945m. R1620E is located ~210m along strike to the east of R780E and is drill defined to ~185m in strike length.

Mineralization along the Patterson Lake Corridor trend remains prospective along strike in both the western and eastern directions. Basement rocks within the mineralized trend are identified primarily as mafic rocks with varying degrees of alteration. Mineralization is both located within and associated with mafic volcanic intrusives with varying degrees of silicification, metasomatic mineral assemblages and hydrothermal graphite. The graphitic sequences are associated with the PL-3B basement EM conductor.

Patterson Lake South Property

The 31,039-hectare PLS project is 100% owned and operated by Fission Uranium Corp. PLS is accessible by road with primary access from all-weather Highway 955, which runs north to the former Cluff Lake mine.

Qualified Persons

The technical information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101 and reviewed on behalf of the company by Ross McElroy, P.Geol., President and CEO for Fission Uranium Corp., a qualified person.

About Fission Uranium Corp.

Fission Uranium Corp. is an award-winning Canadian-based resource company specializing in uranium exploration and development. The company is the owner and developer of the PLS uranium project - a proposed high-grade mine and mill located in the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, Canada. The company is headquartered in Kelowna, British Columbia. Fission's common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "FCU" and trade on the OTCQX marketplace in the U.S. under the symbol "FCUUF."

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Ross McElroy"

___________________________

Ross McElroy, President and CEO

Cautionary Statement:

Certain information contained in this press release constitutes "forward-looking information", within the meaning of Canadian legislation. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur", "be achieved" or "has the potential to". Forward looking statements contained in this press release may include statements regarding the use of proceeds of the Offering, and the future operating or financial performance of Fission and Fission Uranium which involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties which may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and outcomes may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in these forward-looking statements. Such statements are qualified in their entirety by the inherent risks and uncertainties surrounding future expectations. Among those factors which could cause actual results to differ materially are the following: market conditions and other risk factors listed from time to time in our reports filed with Canadian securities regulators on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and the Company and Fission Uranium disclaim 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 expressly required by applicable securities legislation.

SOURCE Fission Uranium Corp.
Vancouver, December 6, 2023 - Recharge Resources Ltd. ("Recharge" or the "Company") (CSE:RR) (OTC:RECHF) (Frankfurt:SL5) is pleased to provide the following update on the Company's Pocitos One Lithium Brine Project ("Pocitos 1" or "the Project") located near Pocitos township in Salta Province, Argentina.

WSP Australia Pty Ltd. ("WSP") has provided a first draft to the Company of the inaugural NI 43-101 compliant Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") and is currently running an additional block model to support the final report. The report includes some of the cost estimates from Ekosolve for a 20,000-tonne lithium carbonate plant that is inclusive of a HCl acid plant and a Lithium carbonate plant. The final report is anticipated to be filed in short order. WSP is a leading global consultancy with more than 67,000 professionals and consultants with expertise in hydrology and brine resource estimates. WSP will utilize information gathered from the NI 43-101 technical report dated June 30th, 2023, completed by Panopus Pte Ltd and the May 2023 MT Survey, 2018 TEM survey, drilling programs, core logs and core porosity data to prepare the Resource Estimate.

This is another milestone in the Company's endeavour to build up to a 20,000-tonne Ekosolve direct lithium extraction ("DLE") plant at the Pocitos project in order to supply Richlink Capital Pty. Ltd. ("Richlink") up to 20,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate per year, as previously announced under a letter of intent of offtake.

David Greenway, President, and CEO commented, "I am delighted the WSP project engineers are building a resource model for the NI 43-101 update resource estimate and appreciate their diligence in this report. The Company is pushing forward on all fronts with our inaugural NI 43-101, with MT geophysics survey and porosity studies completed, and a pending drill program to continue to build on this highly anticipated report. These developments should make for an exciting next period for Recharge and its stakeholders at the Pocitos Project."

2018 and 2022 Drilling

Recharge completed drilling the third hole at the Pocitos 1 lithium brine project achieving 169ppm lithium assay and is currently awaiting permits for its upcoming 3 well 2023 drill program.

As reported on January 31st, 2023, 200 litres of brine were collected to be sent to University of Melbourne for testing to ascertain the recovery that was 94.9% using the EkoSolve processing system and 99.89% purity of the lithium carbonate. These brines were specially prepared for transit to Australia to maintain their content integrity.

The full NI 43-101 Report dated June 30th, 2023, and entitled "Technical Report For The Pocitos Salar Lithium Concession, Salta Province, Argentina", can be found on the Company's website and on SEDAR+ under the Company's issuer profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Fig 1. Dec 2022 Drilling at Pocitos 1 Fig 2. 2018 Drilling at Pocitos 1 Fig 3. 2018 Drilling at Pocitos 1

About Pocitos Lithium Brine Project

The Pocitos 1 Project is located approximately 10km from the township of Pocitos where there is gas, electricity, and accommodation. Pocitos 1 is approximately 800 hectares and is accessible by road. Collective exploration totals over US$2.0 million developing the project, including surface sampling, trenching, TEM and MT geophysics and drilling three wells that had outstanding brine flow results. Locations for immediate follow up drilling have already been designed and identified for upcoming exploration.

Lithium values of 169 ppm from drill hole 3 packer test assayed from laboratory analysis conducted by Alex Stewart were recorded during the project's December 2022 drill campaigns. A double packer sampling system in HQ Diamond drill holes were drilled to a depth of up to 409 metres. The flow of brine was observed to continue for more than five hours. All holes had exceptional brine flow rates. A NI 43-101 report has been released on the Pocitos 1 project.

Recharge is awaiting the completion of the process engineering work to be completed by Ekosolve Ltd to produce and assay the lithium carbonate being produced, where extraction was above 94% of the contained lithium in the brine i.e. 158.86ppm of lithium would have been recovered from 169ppm.

WSP is waiting on the relogging of the cores to be completed before it delivers the Company's maiden resource estimate at Pocitos 1 that will result in an update of the NI 43-101 report completed by QP Phillip Thomas in June 2023.



Click Image To View Full Size

Figure 1. Pocitos Lithium Claim Map

Qualified Person

Phillip Thomas, BSc Geol, MBusM, FAusIMM, MAIG, MAIMVA, (CMV), a Qualified Person as defined under NI 43-101 regulations, has reviewed the technical information that forms the basis for portions of this news release, and has approved the disclosure herein.

Mr. Thomas has joined the Company in the capacity of COO on 21 November 2023. He is a shareholder and Officer.

About Recharge Resources

Recharge Resources is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on exploring and developing the production of high-value battery metals to create green, renewable energy to meet the demands of the advancing electric vehicle and fuel cell vehicle market.

All Stakeholders are encouraged to follow the Company on its social media profiles on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

"David Greenway"

David Greenway, CEO

For further information, please contact:

Recharge Resources Ltd.

Joel Warawa

Phone: 778-588-5473

E-Mail: info@recharge-resources.com

Website: recharge-resources.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

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Ferrari can absolutely catch Red Bull says Baldisserri

Ferrari can "absolutely" catch up with Red Bull as soon as 2024, according to highly successful former Formula 1 engineer Luca Baldisserri.

Charles Leclerc, Abu Dhabi GP 2023

 Ferrari

Most famous for being Michael Schumacher's race engineer at the peak of Ferrari's ultra-successful title-winning era, the Italian hit back at the notion that Maranello was crushed by Red Bull's dominance this year.

It was a normal trend, he told La Gazzetta dello Sport, "especially for a team that has changed the top management of the organisation.

When I analyse a car I always do it by considering the performance of the second driver. And in this sense it is even clearer that Ferrari's performance was not that much inferior to that of Sergio Perez's Red Bull, said the 60-year-old.

The other car was so far ahead because it had an extraterrestrial behind the wheel, Baldisserri smiled, referring to triple world champion Max Verstappen.

As for the actual Ferrari vs Red Bull head-to-head, Baldisserri actually thinks the Italian-made single seater fared quite well in 2023.

I would say that in qualifying, Ferrari was very close, if not ahead, of Red Bull, he said. "What's more, (Carlos) Sainz won a race, albeit on an atypical track like Singapore.

If we don't look at things with the eye of a fan who would like to see Ferrari always win, it didn't go badly.

And so, Baldisserri thinks it's quite reasonable to imagine Ferrari's 2024 car being competitive enough to take on Red Bull in 2024.

Absolutely yes, I think it is, he said. "Also because there is stability in the regulations which should help the recovery.
Wolff claims sexism behind new F1 scandal

Wolff claims sexism behind new F1 scandal

Podium, Italian GP 2023

 Red Bull

In its December issue, Business F1 magazine claims rival teams believe the fact that Susie Wolff is the new managing director of the F1-run female series F1 Academy means that confidential information is passing between her and Mercedes boss Toto.

The report said suspicions then rose to fever-pitch when Toto Wolff made a slip of the tongue at one recent meeting, with the Austrian demonstrating uncomfortable body language once he realised his mistake.

The FIA has now triggered an investigation, revealing that the compliance department is looking into the matter .

In response, Liberty Media-owned F1 rallied behind Susie Wolff without actually naming her, insisting it has complete confidence that the allegations are wrong .

Mercedes also hit back.

We wholly reject the allegation and associated media coverage, which wrongly impinges on the integrity and compliance of our team principal, said the Brackley based team.

As a matter of course, we invite full, prompt, and transparent correspondence from the FIA compliance department regarding this investigation and its contents.

As for Susie Wolff, a former Williams test driver, she insisted she is deeply insulted by the public allegations , and believes sexism may be at their core.

It is disheartening that my integrity is being called into question in such a manner, especially when it seems to be rooted in intimidatory and misogynistic behaviour, and focused on my marital status rather than my abilities, she said.
Selorm Adadevoh: MTN Ghana CEO promoted to group chief commercial officer

Kweku Zurek Business News Dec - 06 - 2023 , 09:14

The MTN Group has announced the appointment of Mr. Selorm Adadevoh as the Group Chief Commercial Officer, effective from April 1, 2024.

Mr. Adadevoh will assume the role currently held by Mr. Jens Schulte-Bockum, the Group Chief Operations Officer, whose contract ends on March 31, 2024.

In a move to better align with the MTN's Group Operating Model, Mr. Adadevoh's title has been adjusted; however, he will take on all the executive responsibilities currently held by Schulte-Bockum, the company said in a statement.

Mr. Adadevoh, with a wealth of industry experience, initially joined MTN in 2018 as the CEO of MTN Ghana.

His career also encompasses significant roles within the Digicel Group, where he served as CEO, COO, and global director for mobile financial services. Before that, Mr. Adadevoh held key positions at Millicom/Tigo in Ghana, including CCO, head of mobile financial services, and head of product innovation.

Mr. Jens Schulte-Bockum, the outgoing Group Chief Operations Officer, concludes his seven-year tenure at the MTN Group. The company expressed gratitude for his integral role in advancing the core connectivity business across various sectors.

Post-transition, Mr. Schulte-Bockum will continue to be associated with the MTN Group, taking on the role of a non-executive director on the boards of MTN South Africa, MTN Nigeria, and Bayobab.

Mr. Ralph Mupita, MTN Group CEO, acknowledged Mr. Schulte-Bockum's contributions and expressed anticipation for his ongoing input in the company's strategic boards.

Following Mr. Adadevoh's promotion, Mr. Stephen Blewett is set to take on the position of CEO of MTN Ghana.

Mr. Blewett, rejoining the company in July 2023, previously served as COO at Digicel and held CEO roles for MTN Benin and MTN Cameroon during his seven-year tenure within the MTN Group.

Ralph Mupita congratulated both Mr. Adadevoh and Mr. Blewett on their appointments, extending well wishes for their success in their new roles and emphasizing their vital contribution to the realization of MTN's Ambition 2025 strategy.
Stephen Blewett appointed new CEO of MTN Ghana

Kweku Zurek Business News Dec - 06 - 2023 , 09:45

Mr. Stephen Blewett has been appointed the CEO of MTN Ghana effective from April 1, 2024.

Mr. Blewett will succeed Mr. Selorm Adadevoh, who has been elevated to the role of MTN Group Chief Commercial Officer (GCCO), the MTN Group said in a statement today.

Having rejoined the MTN Group in July 2023 as the Operations Executive for Markets, overseeing smaller West and Central Africa (WECA) markets, Mr. Blewett brings executive experience to the role.

His responsibilities also include providing broader operational support to the Senior Vice President (SVP) for Markets across the entire WECA region. Mr. Blewett returned to MTN from Digicel, where he served as Chief Operating Officer.

Before his tenure at Digicel, Mr. Blewett spent seven years within the MTN Group, holding CEO positions for MTN Benin and MTN Cameroon. Currently, he holds positions on various boards within the WECA market operating companies, including some as chairman.

Mr. Blewett, a seasoned executive with nearly two decades of experience in the telecommunications industry, holds a degree in Commerce from the University of Kwazulu-Natal in South Africa.

His career has spanned senior positions in South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique, Benin, and with operators such as Telkom Mobile, MCell, MTC, and MTN.

During his five-year tenure as Chief Executive Officer of MTN Benin from 2015 to 2020, Mr. Blewett achieved significant milestones, overseeing double-digit growth in several segments despite challenging economic conditions.

His performance earned him accolades, including the Best Chief Executive Officer in Benin in 2019 across all sectors and the Best Chief Executive Officer of all MTN Group subsidiaries in 2020.

MTN Group President and CEO, Ralph Mupita in a statement congratulated both Mr. Adadevoh and Mr. Blewett on their appointments, expressing well wishes for their success in their new roles.

Mr. Mupita also emphasized their crucial role in contributing to the realization of MTN's Ambition 2025 strategy.
Who is family?

Elizabeth Ohene Opinion Dec - 06 - 2023 , 10:46

There are certain things in this life about which there should be no arguments.

Or so one would hope.

Working out what is family, and who is family should not lead to any arguments, no matter where on this earth you find yourself.

I say this taking into full consideration, expressions like nuclear family, close family, extended family and other such additions to the concept of family.

The dictionary defines what is called an immediate family as consisting of parents, children, siblings and spouses; and an extended family as consisting of grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

It was from the UK Home Office that I learnt that a sister is not regarded as a close relation.

I confess I was incredulous.

If my sister, to quote the Ghanaian saying, same father, same mother is not my close relation, then who on earth can be my close relation?

The Home Office official explained to me that it was: for the purposes of their office that sisters and brothers did not qualify as a close relation, it is quite likely that the social services will have a different definition.

I decided I would not get into whatever different definitions British officialdom had for siblings.

I would keep to what I learned from my parents and stick to the knowledge that my brothers and sisters were the closest relatives I had.

That is until you maybe get married and you have children, and then you might have some competition for your siblings.

Funerals in Ghana

I thought I had the ultimate conversation-stopping story about the odd Brits saying sisters and brothers were not close relations until I started having to organise funerals in Ghana.

Then I realised we could be quite odd here in Ghana as well.

Over here, it appears the definition of family changes completely depending on whether the definition is being made when there is a death or when it is made when people are alive.

Easily, the most dramatic moment of discovering what constitutes family in this country comes when your parent dies and you discover that when the elders meet and refer to the family, that entity does not include children or spouse.

In other words, when your father dies, his children and his wife/your mother are not regarded as constituting the family.

And because the children and spouse are not part of the family, they do not have any rights about the arrangements for the funeral.

They have responsibilities as children of the dead person, which would include buying coffins, paying for graves and generally finding money to fund the arrangements, but they do not have any rights about the arrangements.

A dead body in Ghana belongs to the family and I keep being told this has been affirmed by the courts of the land and it is firmly rooted in our traditional beliefs and practices.

Definition

I have never quite understood why when there is no death and when we are marking other events of lifes milestones, the definition of the family seems different from what a family is defined as when there is a death.

When there is a birth, for example, members of the family stand out very clearly and there is no argument in identifying those who must have a say in how things ought to be done.

When a newborn child is to be named, there is never an argument about the proper family not being told or being involved in the rites that are performed.

During marriages, I have never heard of anybody going to court to get an injunction to stop the ceremony because the real family, the owners of the bride or groom have not been properly acknowledged or were not consulted about the date of the wedding.

How come when we go to make donations at weddings or naming ceremonies, we are not obliged to give a percentage of the donation to the family?

How come someone, obviously an unqualified person, since he wouldnt qualify to be called family when there is a death, can name a child, make decisions on what schools a child might attend and preside over marital rites, but is not family when this person dies?

These milestones surely are far more important in a persons life than the disposal of that persons dead body.

Strange things

When you look more deeply into this sacred family that we have, you find strange things.

I used to feel ever so superior to my European and American friends because I said our definition of family was far more inclusive than theirs.

I would cite for example, the fact that we dont make much of a distinction between siblings and cousins, thus, my cousins, the children of my aunts and uncles and my siblings, the children of my mother and father would all be my brothers and sisters.

That works until you start extending my brother and my sister nomenclature to absurd lengths.

My hometown of Abutia is not exactly a big place and if you put your mind to it and want to draw a very detailed family tree, you might end up finding out that all of us from the town are related to one another.

Are all the people from Abutia, therefore, my brothers and sisters? I wonder.

My mothers people have relations in the nearby town of Sokode and my father has relations from the regional capital Ho, which is some 15 kilometres from Abutia.

If you get my drift, the circle of my brothers and sisters might then extend from the children of Stephen and Augustina Ohene to take in Abutia, Sokode, Ho and whilst we are about it, we might take in the entire Volta Region.

It is probably the same thinking that makes people who would never think of me as family when we are at Abutia or anywhere in the Volta Region, suddenly start calling me sister when we meet in Accra or Koforidua.

Once we are in the midst of people who speak a different language, a.k.a strangers, everybody from Abutia and the Volta Region becomes my family.

I dont suspect that anyone believes that all these people who call each other nye bro have any kind of blood relationship.

They are simply people who feel the urge to band together as a form of protection against outsiders.

But then, there are the family you acquire who do not come from anywhere near your hometown, or region, do not speak the same mother tongue and cannot trace any common ancestry or bloodline.

They started as friends and they became family.

The real McCoy. We should find a proper place for them in our definition of family.
Build skills to tackle unemployment  Prof. Ofori

Timothy Ngnenbe Dec - 06 - 2023 , 08:41

Younger persons in the countrys tertiary institutions have been urged to make conscious efforts to acquire entrepreneurial and creative skills that will put them in a better position to have sustainable livelihoods after school.

The Provost of the College of Humanities at the University of Ghana, Professor Daniel Frimpong Ofori, who made the call, said in an era of acute youth unemployment, it would take young people with relevant skills to succeed in the job market or excel in their personal businesses.

Prof. Ofori stated this at the opening session of a roundtable and information session on studying in Europe organised by the Centre for European Studies (CES) at the University of Ghana.

He also underscored the need for national policies that would mainstream entrepreneurship and skills development into the training of the younger generation to prevent the negative impact of youth unemployment.

Unemployment is forcing many young people to leave the country, sometimes through very dangerous means, and this must be looked at well. When young people are equipped with the needed skills to work, they will be useful to themselves and also pay taxes for national development, he said.

The event was organised in collaboration with the European Union (EU) in Ghana, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD Ghana) and Campus France.

The programme aimed at building the capacity of students in the areas of skills development and entrepreneurship to help them make meaningful livelihoods.

Ultimately, the programme was targeted at equipping the youth with entrepreneurial skills that would help to address the country's widespread youth unemployment.

At the event, the about 300 students who participated in the session were provided with useful information on studying in Europe.

Youth empowerment

The Director of CES, Dr Kwame Asah-Asante, said the initiative was a response to the threats, increasing levels of youth unemployment posed to the country.

"Now that our country has a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and for the next three years public sector jobs cannot be guaranteed for young people, we thought it wise to introduce a programme for young people to be able to build their capacity so that they can start something on their own", he said.

Dr Asah-Asante added that the initiative dovetailed into the government's Youstart programme that sought to support young people to start their businesses.

Youth is future

The Head of Cooperation at the EU, Massimo Mina, said the decision by the union to support the initiative was because it would inspire younger persons in the country to take up entrepreneurship and contribute meaningfully to national development.

He said young persons were creative and innovative so harnessing their potential was crucial for any country that wanted to see sustainable development.

Mr Mina urged the beneficiary students to take bold steps towards building a future for themselves and the country.

The Head of the Political Science Department of the university, Prof. Alidu Seidu, said the youth constituted the future of the country so it was important to build a solid foundation for them to succeed.

He observed that it was when younger people got the opportunity to build their capacity that they could become responsible leaders in the future.
CJ fires judge over misconduct

Daily Graphic Dec - 06 - 2023 , 19:04

A judge who had an amorous relationship with a woman in a divorce petition which was pending in his court, has been dismissed by the Judicial Service of Ghana.

The judge, Alfred Kwabena Asiedu, was dismissed for his inappropriate conduct in a divorce case he presided over at the Jasikan Circuit Court.

The Chief Justice of Ghana, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, in a letter dated November 13, 2023, sighted by the Daily Graphic, informed Alfred Kwabena Asiedu that he had been dismissed from the Judicial Service.

"The Disciplinary Committee, after investigating the above-mentioned matter, found that you misconducted yourself as a Judge as there was ample evidence that you were involved in an improper relationship with the Petitioner, who had a divorce case pending before you.

Committee

"The Disciplinary Committee also established the allegation of abuse of power and malicious prosecution against you as you were found to have caused the arrest and prosecution of the Petitioner without justification.

The Disciplinary Committee consequently recommended that you should be dismissed," the letter stated.

The dismissal followed a petition lodged by Singari Diana Sadia on January 16, 2023 accusing Justice Asiedu of abuse of power, sexual exploitation, malicious prosecution and impropriety.

The Chief Justice upon receiving the petition forwarded it to the disciplinary committee of the Judiciary Service for investigation.

Improper relationship

The committee after thorough scrutiny recommended the dismissal of Justice Asiedu, citing evidence of an improper relationship with the petitioner, who had a divorce case pending before him.

The committee also found merit in the allegations of abuse of power and malicious prosecution, accusing the judge of causing the arrest and prosecution of the petitioner without justification.

Following the disciplinary procedures of the service, Justice Asiedu was invited to appear before the disciplinary committee of the Judicial Council.

The committee's report which was submitted to the Judicial Council was adopted at its 279th meeting on October 25, 2023.

The council concluded that Justice Asiedu's actions constituted Stated Misbehaviour, leading to his removal from office.

The Chief Justice in a letter to Judge Asiedu directed him to hand over all official properties, including his official vehicle, dockets and record books, to the Judicial Secretary immediately.

The dismissal is effective immediately, and the Director of Human Resources has been requested to ensure the prompt removal of Justice Asiedu's name from the Judicial Service payroll.
Eastern Region Zango communities give to spillage victims

Haruna Yussif Wunpini Dec - 06 - 2023 , 08:12

Zango communities in the Eastern Region have donated a variety of relief items valued at GH36,250 to be distributed to victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage.

The items which were contributions from the zango communities consisted of 23 bags of rice, eight packs of tin tomatoes, eight packs of frytol oil, one and half bags of gari, three bags of sugar, several bales of used and unused clothes, several footwear, 400 bags of sachet water and bottles of water.

Also included were menstrual pads and diapers.

Presenting the items on the premises of the Asuogyaman District Assembly at Atimpoku near Akosombo last Wednesday for onward delivery to the affected communities, the Eastern Regional Chief Imam, Alhaji Yussif Amudani Sulemana, said the donation was in accordance with Islamic teachings, to help those in distress to survive.

Contributions

Alhaji Sulemana explained that in view of that Muslims in the Zango communities had to contribute to come to the rescue but not to look on unconcerned.

He indicated that the items were to alleviate the suffering of the victims.

The Chief Imam appealed to the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Asuogyaman, Kwame Agyekum, to ensure that the items were given to the actual victims in the communities.

The Nsawam-Adoagyiri Municipal Chief Imam who is also the Chairman of the District and Municipal Imams group, Alhaji Mohammed Mahib Ciiba, said the Holy Quran had stated that the one who would clean the tears of his neighbour would also have his or her own cleaned by the Almighty Allah.

That, according to him, compelled them to support the victims with the relief items.

A representative of the Council of Muslim Chiefs in the region who is also the Mooshie Chief, Alhaji Amadu Mohammed, emphasised the need to support those in distress, since that was enshrined in the tenets of Islam.

He called on fellow Muslims in the region and the diaspora to also support the victims.

The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Asuogyaman, Kwame Agyekum, who received the items on behalf of the victims, said in all, 56 communities were affected by the spillage and that because communities in the district were upstream, they were not seriously affected.

He said communities downstream, however, were seriously affected, especially Mepe, which was entirely flooded with devastating effects on both humans and structures.

Other communities, Mr Agyekum said, were Surveyline, Kokontekpedzi, Kudikorpe, Abume, Budukrom and Atimpoku.

The DCE said now that the flood water was receding, what the victims needed were food items.

Mr Agyekum lauded Muslims in the Zango communities in the region for their contributions to alleviate the suffering of the victims.
Ghana leads Africa on cybersecurity issues

Dickson Worlanyo Dotse Dec - 06 - 2023 , 09:00

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has been elected to lead the African Network of Cybersecurity Authorities (ANCA), a body established by the Smart Africa initiative.

The initiative is a commitment made by African Heads of State and Government to promote sustainable socio-economic development on the continent.

A statement issued by the authority said that the country was elected to chair the network at a meeting held last Tuesday, in Accra on the sidelines of the Global Conference on Cyber Capacity Building (GC3B). The Kingdom of Morocco was confirmed as the Vice Chair.

Therefore, it said, the position of the Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and Smart Africa Secretariat will constitute the Bureau of the ANCA.

It will be responsible for the governance structure of ANCA, the bodys action plan, and advocate and represent the interests of the members, the statement added.

It stressed that the election of Ghana to lead the body was a further manifestation of the nations growing leadership on the continent with respect to cybersecurity matters.

The statement said that Ghana's significant progress in cybersecurity development was evidenced in its current ITU ranking.

The 2020 Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) report of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) scored Ghana's cybersecurity development 86.69% on the metric showing major progress from a rating of 32.6% in 2017, it added.

It said the score placed Ghana 3rd in Africa behind Mauritius and Tanzania, signifying a major leap from the 10th place attained in 2017 adding that globally, the country moved from the 86th position in 2017 to 43rd place.

ANCA

The African Network of Cybersecurity Authorities (ANCA) comprises a number of African cybersecurity authorities and agencies from different geographical and linguistic areas, with the aim of setting up a platform for exchanges and cooperation between its members and making Africa's voice heard in its dealings with partners around the world on cybersecurity matters.

It currently comprises only 17 members representing African countries that have established dedicated National Cybersecurity Authorities.

The countries include Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Congo Republic, Djibouti, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Morocco, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo and Tunisia.

Priorities

The statement said the Director-General of the CSA, Dr Albert Antwi-Boasiako, who will serve as the Chair of the network outlined the nations vision for ANCA as a leadership on cybersecurity matters on the continent.

The priorities included the establishment of the governance structure for the network for effective engagements, growing the membership of the network from the current number of 17 countries and setting up a platform for operational exchanges and practical cooperation among members.

He said the country will also explore funding models and partnerships for cybersecurity development in member countries and across the continent, contribute to Smart Africas flagship initiatives as the continental advisory body on cybersecurity matters and articulate Africa's voice on cybersecurity matters in global discussions, among others.
NPP Chairmans murder: Convicted Alangdi to stand trial again with Afoko

Justice Agbenorsi Dec - 06 - 2023 , 08:22

Asabke Alangdi, the man convicted and sentenced to death for conspiring with Gregory Afoko to murder former New Patriotic Partys Upper East Regional Chairman, Adams Mahama, will stand trial again on the charge of murder.

This was the ruling of the Criminal Division of the Accra High Court presided over by Justice Maries-Louis Simmons in the case in which Afoko was to be retried for the third time in eight years on the charge of conspiracy and murder.

In a ruling yesterday, Justice Simmons acknowledged that the Attorney-General had the power to determine who to initiate a case against and said it would be unfair for Afoko to stand trial alone on the charge of conspiracy to murder, and murder.

Context

In April this year, a seven-member jury of a court presided over by Justice Merley Afua Wood, a Justice of the Court of Appeal sitting as an additional High Court judge, returned a final verdict which unanimously found Asabke Alangdi guilty on the charge of conspiring with Gregory Afoko to kill Mahama in 2015 but returned a 4 - 3 verdict of not guilty on the charges of conspiracy to commit murder and murder for Afoko.

By the verdict, the two were not guilty of the offence of murder.

Alangdi, was however guilty of the offence of conspiracy to commit murder, leading the court to proceed to pass the mandatory sentence of death on Alangdi which he had since appealed the decision.

While Justice Wood ordered the retrial of Afoko, she did not order a retrial for Alangdi.

Appearing before a differently constituted court presided over by Justice Simmons in November this year for the trial to re-start, Afoko through his lawyer challenged the decision of the prosecution for a retrial of Alangdi on the charge of murder without an order or retrial from the previous court.

Stephen Charway was of the view that there was no way the state could begin a retrial of Alangdi since the previous court did not explicitly state that he should be retried alongside his client.

But the prosecution led by Marina Appiah Opare told the court that the previous trial court inadvertently omitted to order the retrial of Alangdi on the charge of murder adding that Alangdi should be tried again.

Justice Simmons said the Constitution under Sections 285 and 286 of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1960 (Act 30) made provisions for a retrial under such circumstances.

But Alangdis lawyer, Andrew Vortia, has vowed to challenge the courts decision of a re-trial of his already convicted client.

The case has been adjourned to December 21, 2023 for the two to take their pleas.

Other issues

The case had to be adjourned because the only Frafra interpreter available had been on leave affecting the courts ability to take Alangdis plea.

The judge has also indicated that some of the jurors available said they were unwilling to take up the case.

She added that some of the jurors said they were engaged in more than 10 cases, and hence could not take on extra ones.

Justice Simmons said she had written to the High Court Registrar for the issue to be addressed by the next adjourned date.
West Akyem Assembly, MP provide farmers with market

Samuel Kyei-Boateng Dec - 06 - 2023 , 07:54

The West Akyem Municipal Assembly, with support from the Member of Parliament (MP) for Lower West Akyem, Charles Acheampong, has created a satellite market at Asamankese for farmers to sell their farm produce directly to consumers.

The creation of the market is to save the farmers from exploitation by middlemen who buy the foodstuffs cheaply at the farm gates and sell them at expensive prices at the marketing centres.

The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for West Akyem, Seth Oduro-Boadu, announced this at the municipal celebration of the National Farmers Day at Kakoase last Friday.

He said the assembly and the MP had also decided to bear half the cost of all agrochemicals they would supply to farmers in the area from the next farming season.

Mr Oduro-Boadu said the measure is to alleviate the financial burden on farmers, create jobs for the youth and boost food production in the municipality.

Palm seedlings

The MCE said the assembly and the MP supplied more than 60,000 oil palm seedlings free of charge to some farmers for planting this year.

In all, 15 outstanding farmers from the municipality were honoured and presented with assorted items such as fridges, television sets, Wellington boots, knapsack sprayers, wheelbarrows and machetes.

The Chief of Kakoase, Barima Asante Antwi, who was adjudged the overall best municipal farmer, was presented with a certificate, a motorbike and a fridge, among other items.

He thanked the assembly for the honour done him and urged the government to grant soft loans to farmers to motivate them to expand their activities and produce more crops for home consumption and export to increase the country's foreign exchange earnings.
Akufo-Addo and Dr Bawumia want to bring back 'kalabule' in Ghana - NDC

Zadok Kwame Gyesi Politics Dec - 06 - 2023 , 16:32

The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) is accusing President Akufo-Addo and his Vice, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, of attempting to bring back 'kalabule' (cleaver bully, conditional sales, or restricted sales) in Ghana through import restrictions.

The Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson at a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, said the Legislative Instrument (L.I) on the Export and Import (Restrictions on Importation of Selected Strategic Product) Regulations, 2023) has the capacity to bring corruption in the country.

The L.I is seeking to regulate the importation of about 22 items, including poultry, rice, sugar, and diapers to seek licences from a committee to be set up by the minister.

"Simply put, the proposed Import Restrictions Regulations of the failed Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP government, seeks to grant unchecked discretionary power to the Minister for Trade, to solely determine whether or not, to issue an import license to a person and to restrict the quantity of certain imports into the country, as he deems fit," he explained.

For him, the regulatory framework proposed by the LI is not only opaque, but can lend itself to arbitrariness and abuse, adding "This clearly, is going to be an avenue for extortion and corruption if allowed to stand."

Dr Ato Forson further said the NDC holds the view that the right to import essential commodities into the country cannot be limited to the whims and caprices of a Minister of Trade and Industry, his deputy or a certain Import Permit Committee, which will be constituted by the Minister under Regulation (2) of the proposed regulations.

That, he noted, the proposed regulations gravely offend some international trade treaties and protocols that Ghana is a party to, pointing out that the regulation in its current form contravenes the World Trade Organisation (WTO) trade facilitation agreement, particularly on quantitative restrictions.

He added, "This could lead to serious retaliatory action by our trade partners and eventually, affect exports from Ghana."
Former parliamentary aspirant for Sege quits NPP after losing primary

Benjamin Xornam Glover Politics Dec - 06 - 2023 , 07:30

A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Sege Constituency in the Greater Accra Region, Eunice Lasi, has announced her resignation after losing the partys primary last Saturday.

Ms Eunice Lasi, an aspirant in the just concluded parliamentary primary of the party, announced her resignation on Monday, December 4, 2023, in a letter addressed to the General Secretary of the NPP.

She polled 170 votes against 293 secured by the winner, Dodzi Korku Numekevor, in last Saturdays December 2, 2023 election.

Barely 72 hours after that election, she announced her resignation from the NPP, citing alleged bias against her.

It is with good intentions that I wanted to serve my beloved party and my constituency but I have had lots of setbacks which I would no longer want to endure.

I have not been treated fairly ever since I decided to contest in the Sege Constituency on the partys ticket and as a matter of principle, I humbly request you to accept my resignation as a member of the party, she said,

She further indicated in the resignation letter which was copied to the Greater Accra Regional Secretary of the NPP that in the run-up to the 2023 parliamentary race, she received an indefinite suspension letter from the constituency executives, stating various reasons

Recall

It would be recalled that in July this year, the NPP in the Sege Constituency suspended Ms Lasi indefinitely for misconduct.

A statement signed by the Constituency Chairman, Augustus A. Adjaottor, indicated that the decision to suspend Ms Lasi was a result of her consistent insulting outburst on social media, specifically shared on various WhatsApp platforms in the constituency which has caused internal apathy among the party base.

She referenced that in her resignation letter and said she sensed it was another scheme to get her out of the race but said she persevered and fought ahead.

Ms Lasi further stated that some constituency executives on the day of the election influenced the process with money and alleged threats and she believed the ill-treatment meted out to her by the leadership of the party in the constituency did not pave the way for a level playing ground in deciding who emerges the partys parliamentary candidate for the Sege Constituency, hence her decision to quit the party.
Kofi Akpaloo: I'll be next Ghana President; Alan's movement will not make any impact in 2024

Zadok Kwame Gyesi Politics Dec - 06 - 2023 , 18:26

The founder and leader of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), Kofi Percival Akpaloo, says it has been revealed to him in a dream that he will be the next President of Ghana in 2025.

According to him, as someone with a track record of having his dreams come into fruition, he is very optimistic of what God has revealed to him.

To further buttress his point, he said God has consistently revealed to him, the outcome of every election in Ghana.

In a radio interview with Accra-based Asempa FM on the programme "Ekosii Sen" on Wednesday, [December 6, 2023], Kofi Akpaloo said he will win the 2024 presidential election easily, adding that his party is the next political force in Ghana.

Also reacting to last Saturday's "Afrafanto Walk" in Kumasi organised by the Movement for Change, the LPG founder said he will pull more crowd than what the Afrafanto people did in Kumasi.

He said the Movement for Change will not make any impact in the upcoming 2024 general elections.

Mr Akpaloo also accused the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) of destroying his posters in the Volta Region.
The Honor 100 series arrived recently, but the company is not done with the previous series, revealed leaksters on Weibo. The company is planning to launch the Honor 90 GT smartphone, which should be a performance-oriented device with less focus on cameras.

Another report suggested there is also an X50 GT in the works, and the two variants might be announced together.

Honor 80 GT

The X50 GT will be an upgrade over the X40 GT that has Snapdragon 888 chipset and a top-tier cooling solution. We don't know much about the actual specs, but it should be the mightiest smartphone in the X50 lineup.

Honor 90 GT should come as an evolution of the Honor 80 GT that was launched 12 months ago with a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset, just like its sibling 80 Pro. One user suggested the new phone will likely have a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip and a 90 GT+ sibling with 24 GB RAM.

We have to wait and see if these rumors are wishful thinking or if Honor is really preparing for a new product launch in China.

Via
Acting Gov. Joshua Tenorio has announced government plans to acquire the former San Vicente Catholic School in Barrigada for a still undetermined amount and turn it into an area where people can avail of various social services.

The Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority, he said, is taking the lead in this planned acquisition using federal funds under the Community Development Block Grant.

The Archdiocese of Agana closed San Vicente Catholic School in August 2022 because of insufficient student enrollment numbers. The school was established in 1955.

The purpose of that not only is to save that location, a community location, but to make that a community outreach center where multiple public service agencies and nonprofit organizations will be able to be there and provide services to the people of Guam, (not only) to the residents of Barrigada, but to all people of Guam, Tenorio said.

The acting governor made the announcement during Wednesdays ribbon cutting for the 64-unit low cost housing called Summer Breeze I in Radio Barrigada.

The GHURA-hosted ceremony marked the official opening of the first Low Income Housing Tax Credit project in Barrigada, and was built by Core Tech.

Work begins

We envision it to be a community outreach center with multiple services there for multiple populations that are vulnerable in the community, Tenorio said in a media interview after the ribbon cutting ceremony.

He said GHURA already expressed its intent to acquire the former Catholic school property.

GHURA has been working with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development on this undertaking.

Tenorio said GHURA has already planned to set aside or use HUD funds to be able to acquire the property.

Were going through all the mandatory environmental checks, weve been working with HUD, we have convened all of the government agencies, understanding all the nonprofits, where are all the programs that are needed, where are the programs that are not offered yet because they dont have space, the acting governor said. It doesnt happen often when youre able to have a facility so central that we can offer the people of Guam ... Thats gonna add value to this community.

Fernando Esteves, GHURA deputy director, shared the processes that the agency has to go through to get to the point of acquiring the property, including a mandated environmental assessment.

Esteves said the agency would put in an offer, and the price would also depend on an appraisal of the property.

All this began right after Typhoon Mawar, when officials had the opportunity to take a look at the property, Tenorio said.

Acquiring the property, he said, would not only prevent another derelict building but would also increase access to community services.
An attorney with the Office of the Attorney General is alleging she was harassed and retaliated against after her supervisor refused to pay her for sick leave she took.

Repeated attempts to resolve the issue within the office were unsuccessful, according to a grievance filed with the Civil Service Commission.

Assistant Attorney General Donna Lawrence filed for sick leave for the pay period between July 17 and July 29 this year, according to the grievance.

Leave was donated to her by another employee under the governments leave sharing plan, and Chief Deputy Attorney General Joe Guthrie signed off on the leave application, documents state.

But Lawrence was not paid for the leave she took in a timely manner, and her filing accuses Deputy Attorney General Frank Gumataotao with the OAGs Administration Division of interfering with the processing of her leave payment.

Gumataotao did not respond as of press time Tuesday to a request for comment made via WhatsApp and on a message left at his office phone. He did not answer calls to his office or to a personal phone number on file.

On Aug. 21, about three weeks after her leave ended, Lawrence filed a grievance over her delayed payment, Civil Service documents state.

Following that move by Lawrence, Gumataotao allegedly ordered Lawrence via email to direct all of your personnel emails and complaints to me, and informed her that your failure to abide by an order or instruction will result in adverse action. Lawrence was told to refer to personnel rules, CSC documents state.

Lawrence was apparently still waiting for her sick leave payment nearly four months later, as the grievance filed on Nov. 15 asks the Civil Service Commission to order that Gumataotao process her payroll, with additional interest and penalties.

More attempts were made to resolve the issue of unpaid leave time within the OAGs office, according to CSC documents, with Lawrence filing a second grievance with Gumataotao on Sept. 1 and another with Attorney General Douglas Moylans assistant on Sept. 11.

Following the Sept. 11 grievance, Gumataotao allegedly verbally accosted Lawrence, ordered her to speak with him on the issue, and said that I am gonna fire you if you dont cut it out, documents state.

Lawrence on Oct. 5 was notified by Moylan that a grievance review committee within the office had produced a report and recommendation on her case back on Sept. 26.

Civil Service documents allege that one witness and one member of the committee that decided Lawrences case both had a conflict disqualifying them from deciding on the matter.

The committee recommended that Lawrence provide a signature on her timesheet to resolve the issue, something Lawrence said she has not had to do for previous leave filings.

Lawrences filing asks CSC to find that Moylan has violated personnel rules and Guam law for subjecting (her) to harassment and retaliatory conduct and to order Moylan and Gumataotao to cease and desist.

Moylan did not respond to a request for comment made via WhatsApp on Tuesday. The OAG as of Tuesday had yet to file any response to Lawrences grievance with the CSC.

Gumataotao was previously the campaign manager for Moylan during the latters 2018 bid for the attorney generals seat.

Lawrence is represented by attorney Jacqueline Terlaje who, a day before she submitted Lawrences grievance with the Civil Service Commission, filed a police report against Moylans Chief Deputy Attorney Guthrie for alleged threatening action.

Guthrie has denied the allegations.
Guam, which has overcrowded prison facilities, is once again exploring the possibility of housing its inmates on Saipan, where theres enough space to accommodate more.

The original Guam prison facility was built to house 300 inmates but the island currently has an inmate population of about 850.

Saipans corrections facility, meanwhile, was built to accommodate a little more than 500 inmates but currently has a little over 200 individuals there.

Department of Corrections Director Fred Bordallo on Tuesday confirmed that he and a few other officials will be on Saipan Wednesday for what he described as exploratory talks on how both entities can help each other.

Bordallo, whose appointment was just recently confirmed by senators, said its premature to discuss details about how many Guam inmates and how much it would cost to house them on Saipan, since the discussions are just starting.

We appreciate the CNMI Department of Corrections support. Like I said these are exploratory talks so we still cant talk about details. There are other things, the CNMI is interested in finding out our best practices and strategies too, Bordallo told the Pacific Daily News.

Bordallo said traveling to Saipan with him will be Adelup counsel Jeff Moots, Department of Youth Affairs Director Melanie Brennan, and Guam Clearinghouse Director Stephanie Flores.

Guam has an overcrowding situation where we got about 848 inmates but the facility was originally meant for just a few hundreds. We are exploring multiple ways to ease the overcrowding, he said.

The potential for sending some inmates to Saipan is just one temporary solution, he said, citing a longer-term solution of building a bigger facility on Guam.

Bordallo cited the Department of Public Works release of a request for proposal for the design of a new correctional facility.

As for his Saipan trip, Bordallo said the small Guam team will be meeting with, among others, CNMI Corrections Commissioner Anthony Torres, who called a press conference on Monday to talk about the possibility of Saipan hosting Guam inmates to help ease overcrowding at the Guam prison.

In that press conference, Torres said besides helping its sister island of Guam, the CNMI will also be able to generate revenue.

He cited, for example, a potential CNMI government revenue of $4.38 million a year if Guam sends 100 inmates at $120 per diem. Portions of those revenues would also go toward improving CNMI facilities.

Bordallo said Guam also provides temporary housing of CNMI inmates who are en route to Saipan, for example.
A Guam Police Department officer who has been on leave of absence since 2017 has been a subject of a federal criminal investigation in a drug trafficking case and just recently, GPD also launched an internal affairs investigation.

The GPD officer, Brian D. Awa, has been identified in a recently unsealed federal search warrant, dated May 2020.

The search warrant stated that a drug-detector dog, or K9, alerted authorities to the presence of narcotics in a U.S. Postal Service priority mail package addressed to Awas Dededo residence.

Because this is an ongoing investigation, it is requested that this search warrant application and the accompanying affidavit, attachment, and exhibit be sealed until further order by the Court, the May 2022 affidavit filed in the U.S. District Court of Guam stated.

The case was unsealed on Nov. 29, 2023, after 14 approved requests for extending the sealing order, according to court documents.

It is unfortunate that an officer within our ranks is being investigated for drug-related activities, GPD said in a statement on Wednesday, addressing concerns surrounding Awa. We fully support and encourage the continuation of the investigation to uncover the truth.

GPD spokesperson Officer Berlyn Savella said upon unsealing of the federal search warrant, GPD learned that Awa was the target of a federal criminal investigation.

An internal investigation by GPD was then initiated promptly, Savella said.

Awa, according to GPD, has been on leave of absence since 2017 and continues to remain on leave as of the present time.

It is important to note that during this period, the officer has not been on duty, in uniform, or stationed at any of the precincts or sections of our department, GPD said in a statement.

Chief of Police Stephen Ignacio, according to the Dec. 6 statement from GPD, wants to make it abundantly clear that the Guam Police Department does not condone any form of criminal activity, particularly when it involves law enforcement officers.

They are held to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism, the statement said.

GPD also said the incident is not reflective of the entire police department or its officers.

The Guam Police Department is composed of many dedicated individuals who demonstrate sound judgment and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the community and its families. This incident does not define the character of our department, the statement said.

It added that the chief of police remains confident that the investigative process will uncover the necessary facts and take appropriate action against any officer found guilty of committing criminal acts.

The department is committed to maintaining the trust and confidence of the community we serve, it added.

GPD said anyone with information regarding any officer involved in misconduct or criminal activities, such as drug trafficking, is strongly encouraged to come forward and file a complaint.

We take these matters seriously and are dedicated to maintaining the highest possible standards, GPD said. The communitys support, patience, and cooperation during any ongoing investigation is always appreciated. We remain steadfast in its commitment to excellence, integrity, and justice.
The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, based in New York City, recently awarded the University of Guam with a $900,000 grant to support the creation of a CHamoru Studies Center and other projects to revitalize CHamoru language and culture.

The grant will support efforts to reverse the decline in the number of CHamoru language speakers in Guam from an estimated 34,598 in 1990 to 21,390 based on the 2020 Census.

UOG will also use the grant to support pathways for students attending Guam Community College and Northern Marianas College who seek to transfer their course credits towards a Bachelor of Arts degree in CHamoru Studies at UOG.

We are immensely grateful to the Mellon Foundation, said UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez. The grant validates UOGs continuous efforts to revitalize, promote, and proliferate CHamoru language and culture and build capacity for educators who aim to specialize in CHamoru studies and research.

The CHamoru Studies Program and its faculty members Kisha Borja-Quichocho-Calvo, Francine Naputi, Kenneth Gofigan Kuper, and Mary Therese F. Cruz are the co-principal investigators for the grant.

This grant comes at a critical time in the journey of our CHamoru language. Now, more than ever, strong, concerted efforts in both the University and our greater community must continue to sustain Fino CHamoru to ensure that we produce more fluent and proficient speakers of the language, so that our language continue to thrive, said Borja-Quichocho-Calvo.

This is the first grant from the highly competitive Mellon Foundation that will support the CHamoru Studies program, according to James Sellmann, dean of CLASS.

The Mellon Foundation grant will support the CHamoru Studies program by helping us establish an archive of CHamoru language learning materials and develop the program to prepare students for graduate work in CHamoru studies, said Sellmann.

Founded in 1969, The Mellon Foundations programs support exemplary and inspiring institutions of higher education, humanities, the arts, and culture.
Ron McNinch is a longstanding member of the Guam community and frequently gives his opinion on a wide range of topics.
Panera Breads ultra-caffeinated lemonade has caused a second death, alleges a new lawsuit filed on Dec. 4.

Dennis Brown, 46, died in October after suffering a fatal cardiac arrest on his walk home from a Panera Bread in Fleming, Fla., according to the lawsuit. He had consumed three servings of Charged Lemonade at the restaurant.

This is the second lawsuit in two months filed over Panera Breads Charged Lemonade. Its largest size contains 390 milligrams of caffeine, exceeding the amount in four cups of coffee or three 12-ounce cans of Red Bull. The upper limit of daily caffeine intake for a healthy adult is 400 milligrams, according to the Mayo Clinic.

In October, the family of college student Sarah Katz alleged that her cardiac arrest was caused by consuming the beverage. The 21-year-old was diagnosed with a heart condition, Long QT Type 1 Syndrome, for which she took daily medication and avoided energy drinks, say her parents.

Katz collapsed at a friends birthday party hours after drinking the lemonade.

I guarantee if Sarah had known how much caffeine this was, she never would have touched it with a 10-foot pole, Katzs roommate, Victoria Rose Conroy, told NBC News.

Panera's Charged Lemonade has been linked to two deaths since October.Gado via Getty Images

Brown, too, avoided caffeinated beverages due to a medical condition, say his family. The suit outlines that he had a developmental delay, a mild intellectual disability and high blood pressure due to a chromosomal deficiency.

Brown lived independently and worked for nearly 17 years at a nearby Publix grocery store, where he frequently visited Panera after his shifts. On the day of his death, Brown ordered a Charged Lemonade and refilled his cup twice at the self-serve station, says the complaint. While walking home, he suffered a cardiac arrest, and was found unresponsive on the sidewalk.

At Panera Bread, the containers of lemonade are described as plant-based and clean caffeine powered. The suit alleges that the beverage is offered side-by-side drinks with no caffeine and is easily refilled without limit.

In a statement to USA Today, Panera Bread denied responsibility for either death, saying: Panera stands firmly by the safety of our products, and that (Browns) unfortunate passing was not caused by one of the companys products.
Im told its a rite of passage in New Orleans, and I guess that finally makes me a local. A little over a month ago, I rounded the corner to where my car had been parked overnight, keys naively gripped in hand  only to be greeted by an empty curbside.

My stomach lurched. There were zero no parking signs in sight, and Im pretty sure this city has never heard of street sweeping. Still, I frantically called every single tow yard in Orleans Parish, punching the numbers with increased panic, before reaching acceptance: My beloved 2004 Honda CR-V was stolen.

I filed a police report and resigned myself to an evening of self-pity, until several friends sent me a similar message: You should send your information to the Stolen Autos of NOLA page.

It turns out that in New Orleans, theres an entire community pooling resources to get stolen cars back.

The volunteer-run Instagram page @stolenautosnola is a sea of red and green tiles, spanning more than 670 posts. Red indicates a stolen car; green means recovered. Its moderator, who has chosen to remain anonymous, has a goal to empower the people of the city: If the police wont help you, maybe we can.

Victims of theft can submit photos of their vehicle to the Instagram page, in hopes that a fellow resident has spotted their car.Emily Topping

The moderator  well call them S for stolen  had their own brand-new Jeep snatched from outside their house in December 2022. After a popular Instagram account later shared a photo of the missing car on Instagram, it was located within an hour, less than a mile from Ss house, with several people living in it and leaving it littered with needles, S says.

Although S got their vehicle back, the thieves faced no repercussions. A court filing shows that the district attorney refused to press charges.

Its infuriating, S says. And then my car spent months in the shop. It was like the nicest thing Id ever gotten for myself.

Car theft in New Orleans has become as archetypal as Mardi Gras. According to a report from the Metropolitan Crime Commission, an average of 20 cars were stolen per day this year, an increase of 111% from 2022.

Although the rate of car-jacking has decreased in recent months, that doesnt make it uncommon. In October, our very own district attorney, Jason Williams, was forced out of his Lincoln Navigator SUV at gunpoint, alongside his elderly mother, by two masked assailants. Last week, a teenager was convicted for his role in the March 2022 murder of 73-year-old Linda Frickey, who was gruesomely killed after being dragged alongside her car in a violent robbery.

The New Orleans Police Department has lost 300 members in three years, nearly 25% of the force.The Washington Post via Getty Im

For victims whose cars simply vanish, it feels like theres little to be done. The citys severely understaffed Police Department means that property crimes have abysmally slow response times: more than three hours on average for auto thefts, according to the City Council dashboard.

In response, New Orleans residents have turned to each other. After harnessing the power of social media to recover their own car, S decided to create an account dedicated to helping others.

Using an Excel spreadsheet to keep organized, S started reposting photos of peoples stolen vehicles under the name @stolenautosnola. Good Samaritans began messaging the account to report suspicious sightings: a Kia Soul with the back window smashed out on Claiborne Avenue, a crumpled Hyundai with three kids sprinting out of it near the Causeway.

S would pore over the spreadsheet, connect the dots, and contact the owners of the located vehicle.

It became another full-time job, like four to six hours a day, they say.

Soon, S had the personal numbers of several officers on the force.

Sometimes people reach out to me and say, Hey I know where my car is, but NOPD wont do anything, S said. So, I tell them, Send me the info and Ill see what I can do. Because sometimes (the officers) actually listen to me.

In less than a year, the Instagram page has gained a following of over 12,000 people. Besides photos of stolen vehicles, S also shares tips  like the fact the city legally has to reimburse you if your stolen vehicle is towed to a city yard, where cars often languish for months, racking up fees.

Some of the advice is less orthodox. A recent Instagram story on @stolenautosnola shows a series of anonymous messages dishing on an alleged hotspot in Algiers: What you can do is hang out at the Whitney food spot, the screen-shotted texts read. Them young boys be pulling up over there with guns ... & they be switching out them license plates.

Before posting the tip, S prefaced it with a headline Any officers following in the 4th district (Algiers)?

Much like Instagram users of years-past used stories to find new brunch spots, New Orleans cops can now swipe up for hot tips on grand theft auto.

Despite their anonymity, and the fact that NOLA sometimes resembles Gotham City, S says theyre no Batman: They dont encourage followers to exact revenge, or even attempt to recover their car without police present. Instead, their main goal is to create an open source of information.

Im not a cop, I dont wanna be, but I like helping people, S says. So, this is what I can do.

Since December 2022, 106 cars have been recovered thanks to the @stolenautosnola Instagram page. If youd like to send information about a car to the account, check out the guidelines here.

In the meantime, if you see a dark green Honda CR-V with a dent in the drivers side, send me an email.
Published on 2023/12/05 | Source

Actor Han Suk-kyu has confirmed his appearance in MBC's most anticipated drama "Such a Close Traitor" in 2024. It is the first time in 29 years that Han Suk-kyu has appeared in an MBC drama since "Hotel" in 1995.

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MBC's new drama "Such a Close Traitor" (directed by Song Yeon-hwa/written by Han Ah-young) is a family psychological thriller about a dilemma that Korea's best profiler experiences when he learns the secret of his daughter related to the murder crime he is investigating. It is the work of Han Ah-young, who was elected with the absolute support of the judges at the 2021 MBC Drama Drama Screening Contest.

In "Such a Close Traitor", Han Suk-kyu plays Jang Tae-soo, the best profiler in Korea and a father who raises his only daughter alone.

In the drama, Jang Tae-soo is a positional figure who voluntarily walked the path of a criminal behavior analyst ever since he was unfamiliar with the word profiling. He gains unrivaled respect and trust within the police organization. In the meantime, as everything, not only his professional beliefs but also his relationship with his beloved daughter, is shaken by an incident, he struggles to reveal the truth to protect his ex-wife's daughter.

The family psychological thriller "Such a Close Traitor" starring Han Suk-kyu, confirmed the programming of MBC's Friday-Saturday drama in the second half of 2024 and plans to start production in earnest with casting the lead actor.

Han Suk-kyu was a former MBC's 20th public recruitment program member in 1991. He appeared in the SBS drama "Dr. Romantic 3" which aired from April to June this year.
Issabella Cowan, 8, looks for dolls with Montana State Highway Patrol Trooper Lewis Johnson during Shop With A Cop in 2019 at Walmart in Havre. Shop With A Cop is again happening this year, starting at 9 a.m. Saturday.

The Havre Police Protective Association will be hosting again the Shop With A Cop this year for families and children in need.

Last year was the first year since the COVID-19 pandemic started that the department started the event again. The police force will be taking young children to Walmart Saturday to shop for Christmas gifts, starting with breakfast at 9 a.m.

The Shop With A Cop event has been held for years around Montana. The event was canceled for a few years due to COVID and other circumstances.

Applications were sent to the schools in early November. The children and their fa...
Democratic secretary of state candidate Jesse Mullen speaks Tuesday at a campaign event in The Wild Fig in Havre.

Secretary of state candidate Jesse Mullen, a Democrat, campaigned in Havre Tuesday, meeting with local officials as well as a group of voters, as well as sitting down for an interview with Havre Daily News.

Mullen, who owns Mullen Newspaper Company, said his experience as a reporter helping hold governments and their officials accountable was one of the things that influenced him to run for office against an incumbent, Republican Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen, he said is unfit for office.

He said his time as a business owner whose company is built on understanding the mechan...
Last updated 12/6/2023 at 12:06pm

Press release

Montana State University Extension is offering businesses the chance to learn how artificial intelligence can help their operations.

Small Business Development Center Rural Business Advisor Rich Gannon of the Great Falls Development Authority is holding a 30-minute webinar Thursday.

Gannon will will showcase a variety of AI tools designed to empower businesses.

From crafting compelling content to analyzing data and even creating interactive chatbots, AI has emerged as a versatile and indispensable tool for small businesses, a flyer about the event said. Discover...
The Ministry of Education and Culture on Tuesday revealed that Finnish 15-year-olds saw their mean score in mathematical literacy  the main focus of the latest assessment  decline by 23 points from 2018 to 484 points, 12 points higher than the mean score of pupils across the OECD.

THE PISA RESULTS of Finnish youth have deteriorated across the three core subjects examined in the international assessment: science, reading and mathematics.

Finland was hardly an outlier in this regard: the mean score in mathematics declined in as many as 41 countries, including 35 members of the economic organisation. With Japan and South Korea the only OECD countries to register an improvement in mathematical literacy, the mean score across members of the organisation declined by an average of 17 points from 2018  significantly more than the previously most dramatic assessment-to-assessment change of 4 points.

Pupils in Canada, Estonia, Ireland, Switzerland and the Netherlands all scored higher in mathematical literacy than their peers in Finland.

The deterioration of mathematical proficiency among 15-year-olds has continued in Finland since 2006, when pupils in the country registered an average score of 548 points in mathematics.

The development is evident not only in the mean score, but also in the share of pupils at opposite ends of the performance spectrum: the share of pupils with inadequate mathematical proficiency has jumped from 7 per cent in the early 2000s to 25 per cent in 2022, whereas that of pupils performing excellently has decreased.

In Finland, girls received a mean score of 487 and boys one of 482 points in mathematics in 2022, signalling drops of 24 and 23 points, respectively, from the previous assessment. Girls in the country have outperformed boys in mathematics since 2012.

Reading proficiency has similarly deteriorated in a number of countries assessed in Pisa.

Finnish 15-year-olds saw their mean score in reading fall by 30 points from the previous assessment to 490 points, 14 points higher than the OECD average. As Finnish girls saw their mean score in reading fall by 33 points to 513 and boys by 27 points to 468, what has always been a noticeable gender gap in reading skills narrowed from 52 to 48 points.

Finland remains a better-than-average performer in the economic organisation also in scientific literacy, despite an 11-point drop in the mean score to 511.

The Ministry of Education and Culture characterised the overall situation as extremely disconcerting despite the fact that learning outcomes dipped widely across the OECD.

It also pointed out that although the performance of both immigrant and non-immigrant pupils declined in all three core subjects, the decline has been more rapid for non-immigrant pupils in mathematics and science, narrowing the gap between the two pupil groups.

One positive takeaway from the latest results is that pupils exhibited less anxiety about mathematics in Finland than anywhere else in the OECD.

The level of anxiety correlated with pupils perceptions about the degree of support they receive from teachers during maths lessons. In Finland, 78 per cent of pupils viewed that teachers have provided additional support when needed and 59 per cent that teachers have demonstrated an interest in fostering the learning of all pupils.

Disciplinary climate, by contrast, was an area where the country performed worse than the OECD average. Finnish pupils were particularly concerned about the use of digital devices, with 41 per cent estimating that digital devices have distracted them during every or most maths lessons.

The Pisa assessment was carried out one year behind schedule due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Minister of Education Anna-Maja Henriksson (SFP) reminded that the pandemic and its effects on instruction, the motivation and well-being of youth inevitably had an impact on the results of the global assessment.

Finlands Pisa results have [] continued on a downward trend. What is significant is that skills have eroded substantially, and thats why the results have to be taken seriously, she stated at a news conference in Helsinki on Tuesday. The assessment results dont provide an exhaustive answer as to how much of the erosion of learning outcomes is due to the pandemic and how much is due to other factors.

It seems that the attitudes of pupils have changed mostly in a positive direction, but this isnt reflected in the level of skills, she added, pointing to the lack of maths-related anxiety and relatively positive experiences of teaching during the pandemic. The performance gap between pupils has widened, and the home environments effect on learning outcomes has continued to grow. Girls continue to outperform boys, and pupils of immigrant backgrounds have weaker skills than other pupils.

Measures are needed.

The Finnish government is seeking to reverse the downward trend in learning outcomes by investing 200 million euros in basic education by the end of the electoral term, reforming services that support learning, and increasing the amount of maths and native language teaching.

First and second-grade pupils, she reminded, will have two additional weekly hours of literature and native language instruction, and third-to-sixth-grade pupils one additional weekly hour of maths instruction as of 1 August 2025.

The previous government has also decided to make permanent a funding mechanism targeted at schools and kindergartens in socio-economically challenging regions.

A total of 50 million euros is paid annually to municipalities. The funding is intended for schools and kindergartens that are located in socio-economically challenging areas. This money can be used to balance differences in learning outcomes, said Henriksson.

Arto K. Ahonen, the research director of Pisa in Finland, described Finnish pupils performance in the latest assessment as historically poor.

If you compare to our neighbouring countries, Estonia, for example, has done a better job to maintain the skills of pupils. Learning outcomes naturally deteriorated in a number of countries because of the coronavirus pandemic. In Finland, the deterioration was more pronounced than wed hoped for, he admitted.

A researcher at the University of Jyvaskyla, Ahonen viewed that the decline in academic performance cannot be attributed to any single factor.

Not all of the reasons are necessarily found in schools, but there have been societal changes, too. If you analyse the two latest assessments, meaning years 2018 and 2022, there isnt a single factor thatd explain the differences in results.

Finland, he added, does stand out in that learning outcomes have declined at all skill levels  from the worst-performing to the best-performing pupils.

Ahonen also reminded that a decline in learning outcomes in basic education can have far-reaching consequences in the lives of young people and society at large.

For example, people in upper-secondary education are already concerned that young people dont have the skills they need to cope with their studies. This follows people to tertiary education and thereon to working life. Primary school is where the foundation is built, its where investments are needed.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
A recent Eurobarometer survey commissioned by the European Parliament's Finland Office reveals that a significant majority of Finnish citizens view Finland's membership in the European Union positively. According to the survey, 79% of Finns believe that being part of the EU is beneficial, aligning with the broader European sentiment where 72% of EU citizens feel their country has benefited from EU membership.

The survey, which reflects the opinions of EU citizens, indicates that 80% of Finnish respondents believe Finland has gained from EU membership. The respondents attribute this positive outlook to the EU's role in maintaining peace and enhancing security (42% of Finnish respondents) and promoting cooperation among member states (62% of Finnish respondents).

Overall, 45% of EU citizens have a positive image of the EU, 38% neutral, and 16% negative. These figures have remained consistent since March 2023. Among Finnish respondents, 55% view the EU positively, 33% neutrally, and 11% negatively.

Finnish Priorities: Defense, Democracy, and Climate Change

The survey reveals that 70% of all respondents and 64% of Finns believe the EU impacts their daily lives. When asked about priorities for the European Parliament, poverty reduction (36%) and public health (34%) were named as key issues by the general EU populace. Climate change action and economic support, including job creation, also ranked high on the importance list.

Finnish respondents, however, prioritize defense and security policy (44%), democracy and the rule of law (42%), and climate change actions (36%). Reducing poverty and combating terrorism and organized crime are also seen as important focus areas.

Economic Concerns Remain

Despite positive sentiments towards the EU, socioeconomic challenges persist. 73% of all respondents and 56% of Finns believe their standard of living will decline in the next year, showing a slight improvement compared to spring 2023. Financial difficulties, such as paying bills, continue to be a concern for many Europeans.

High Interest in Upcoming EU Elections

More than half of the respondents (57% of EU citizens and 59% of Finns) express interest in the upcoming EU elections set for June 6-9, 2024. The survey shows a steady interest level compared to spring 2023 and an increase from the autumn 2018 pre-election survey. A majority (68% of EU citizens and 71% of Finns) state they would vote if the EU elections were held next week.

European Parliament President Metsola's Remarks

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, comments on the survey results, highlighting the significance of the EU in addressing geopolitical and socioeconomic challenges. She emphasizes the EU's role in fighting poverty, exclusion, and climate change, creating jobs, and defending EU values like democracy, human rights, and freedom of speech.

Metsola stresses the importance of voting in upholding democracy, reminding citizens that every vote in the upcoming EU elections matters. This Eurobarometer survey underscores the continued relevance and impact of the European Union in the lives of its citizens and the importance of democratic participation.

HT
Finland ranks only 14th out of 39 countries in UNICEF's Report Card study, which compares child poverty situations in EU and OECD countries.

According to a UNICEF study , comprehensive social security is a crucial tool for protecting children from poverty. "The proposed social security cuts by the current government will have serious consequences for children's well-being," warns Sanna Koskinen , UNICEF Finland's special expert.

The study ranks countries using two indicators: Finland is the third-best among the comparison countries when it comes to child poverty rates, meaning the percentage of children living in poor families from 2019 to 2021. In Finland, this percentage was 10.1%. The second indicator measures the change in child family poverty between the periods of 2012-2014 and 2019-2021. Since child family poverty has not decreased in Finland, the country falls to 26th place according to this indicator.

Slovenia, Poland, and Latvia topped the comparison, while the bottom ranks include the United Kingdom, Turkey, and Colombia.

UNICEF's research center, Innocenti, regularly publishes Report Card studies examining the well-being of children in developed industrial countries under changing themes.

"Finland has usually ranked in the top five in these studies and has been seen as a model for child well-being. This year's ranking is exceptionally poor," notes Sanna Koskinen, UNICEF Finland's special expert.

"Policymakers Must Understand That Child Poverty Is a Real Problem"

Finland's poor ranking is due to the fact that child poverty rates in Finland have remained the same since 2012. Among the comparison countries, 17 have successfully reduced child family poverty, with the best countries achieving reductions of over 30 percent.

"Finnish policymakers must understand that child poverty is a real and serious problem. UNICEF's research shows that both poorer and wealthier countries can reduce child family poverty. In Finland, effective measures must finally be taken," says Sanna Koskinen.

UNICEF's research acknowledges that comprehensive social security is a vital tool for protecting children from poverty. In Finland, social security has been especially effective in reducing child family poverty. Without social security benefits, the child poverty rate in Finland would have been nearly 29 percent in 2021, according to the study.

"Based on this, the proposed social security cuts by the current government will have serious consequences for children's well-being," warns Sanna Koskinen.

UN Committee on the Rights of the Child also advised Finland in June to avoid cuts to social security benefits that affect children at risk of poverty and social exclusion.

Koskinen reminds that in decision-making concerning children and families, the impacts on children must always be assessed. If multiple decisions affecting children are being made, their combined effects must also be assessed.

"The current proposals for social security cuts have not been subject to a sufficiently comprehensive impact assessment, which is very concerning."

Finland at the Bottom in Single-Parent Family Poverty Risk

UNICEF's study reveals that in Finland, the risk of poverty for children living in single-parent families is the highest among the comparison countries. In Finland, children in single-parent families are over eight times more likely to live in poverty than children in two-parent families.

Taija Liuhto, Chairperson of the Single-Parent Family Association, reminds us that single-parent families make up a quarter of all families in Finland. Recent increases in living costs pose a real risk to both financial survival and well-being, especially for single parents working in low-wage sectors.

"For a single parent, it's unreasonable to have to consider taking on another job on top of a full-time job just to cover the increased costs of rent and reduced housing allowance. In many families, the choice now is between buying food or winter clothes for their child," Liuhto says.

"If a parent has to worry daily about making ends meet, it takes a significant toll on their resources. All of this comes at the expense of the child."

Poverty Endangers a Child's Well-Being and Future

Family poverty has a broad impact on a child's well-being and health, both immediately and in the long term.

In a poor family, a child may suffer from a lack of food. The child may carry deep concerns about the family's well-being, experience bullying, and miss out on extracurricular activities. Research shows that childhood poverty significantly increases the risk of later mental health problems and poor school performance.

"Finland must do better. Every child should have the best possible start in life. We cannot afford to leave any child behind due to poverty," concludes Sanna Koskinen.

HT
A HENLEY charity lost about 25,000 in government support last year despite nearly all of its costs rising.

Nomad, which supports young people and families, received 27,529 in government grants in the year to April 1 compared with 54,395 in the previous 12 months.

However, income from charitable grants and trusts increased from 74,457 to 114,997 and support for the charitys food bank soared from 5,641 to 18,484.

Nomad, which is based at the d:two centre in Market Place, spent 204,834 in the year compared with 184,198 the year before.

It spent more as demand for the food bank, its help fund and youth activities rose.

The food bank saw a marked increase in referrals, resulting in a 29.4 per cent increase in the number of food parcels being delivered to families and individuals.

In total, 1,898 bags were delivered to 1,426 adults and 718 children.

The figures were revealed at Nomads annual meeting, which was attended by trustees, partners and volunteers as well as Mayor Kellie Hinton and David Turner, chairman of South Oxfordshire District Council.

Rev Jeremy Bray, pastor at the Henley Baptist Church, singled out the delivery of nearly 2,000 bags of food.

He said: There was one student who, through incredibly challenging circumstances over the years, has just managed to pass her degree and thats much thanks to people in this room who have supported her and the family over many years.

There are big numbers but also very small, personal numbers and that sums up Nomad.

Introducing the Mayor, Rev Bray said: Nomad has had a really long association with the town council and has been really appreciative of its support. Cllr Hinton said: There are three things that really impress me about Nomad. The first is the number of people that you help. The fact that its a really holistic approach to helping young people and their families, working with parents and children, I think is really important and its also really effective.

The second is the variety of ways in which you help people: things people know about like the food bank and working with young people, but theres also things that you do such as the life skills courses and getting back into work and the mentoring and things like that, that people perhaps know less about.

Also the sheer number of organisations that you work with  its not just councils that youre working with, youre actually the first port of call sometimes for schools, local community groups and charities and businesses.

Youre working across the town with absolutely everyone and thats why youve managed to achieve more than 4,000 interventions in a year, which is just an incredible number in a town of 11,500 people.

A town like Henley only thrives because of the community and I really believe that Nomad is the heart of our community.

Nomad trustee Peter Lloyd explained the accounts.

He said: For many years the district council provided the backbone of Nomads income but that has declined in recent years and has halved in this current year.

Grants and trusts, fortunately, have increased significantly and combined they actually represent our biggest source of income this year.

The fees Nomad receives from schools for the mentoring work Nomad undertakes has doubled in the year from 4,000 to 9,000, reflecting the amount of work that Nomad has been able to provide.

Mr Lloyd explained a 9,000 increase in support costs to 119,157 was due to the employment of another part-time member of staff.

He said: Looking at food bank costs, were very fortunate to have most of our food gifted to us and also were supported by a very committed team of volunteers, so an awful lot of that is free.

The costs are partly the time associated with members of Nomad doing the work and the food that has to be bought.

The help fund and youth activities are restricted funds given solely for a specific purpose. The help fund pays for white goods for families in serious need including, this year, computers and some school clothing for 10 Ukrainian families.

Youth activities represent funding for young people who have outings or group holidays which they would not otherwise experience.

He said that the charity hoped to employ another part-time employee for around 20,000 and increase the safety reserves by 6,000.

Mr Lloyd concluded by predicting that the cost of living crisis would mean Nomads services would be more in demand.

He said: The trustees view is that Nomads services are going to grow and grow. It has certainly grown this year.

Looking forward, family budgets are tight. Demand on the food bank continues to grow. Student anxiety and mental problems are increasing. Nomad is getting more requests to help from schools.

The staff Nomad employs do amazing work. Your money is spent sparingly and wisely.

Support worker Angela Face spoke about Nomads community activities over the past year, including a trek up Mount Snowdon and a community fun day at the YMCA.

She said the charitys partnership with the John Hodges Trust enabled it to purchase white goods for numerous families and individuals struggling financially.

The help fund had given support to young people and families in a variety of ways, including purchasing an electric hob and utensils for a woman escaping domestic violence who was rehoused in Henley, supporting a foster family with emergency rent arrears and helping someone to visit dentist for the first time in years as they needed a complete set of dentures.

 A 5,000 annual grant for Nomad has been reinstated by Henley Town Council to pay for outreach workers at night.
Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary culinary journey as the European Union (EU) makes its vibrant presence felt at the upcoming SIAL and VINEXPO exhibitions. From December 7 to 9, 2023, the India International Convention & Exhibition Centre will transform into a gastronomic haven, inviting visitors to savor the finest European flavors.

The heart of this epicurean celebration lies within the EU Pavilion, situated at Booth C10 in Hall 1B at SIAL. This pavilion is a treasure trove of agri-food products, a captivating tapestry of flavors encompassing everything from cheese, dairy, pork, and poultry to the liquid gold of olive oil, exquisite confectionery, and more.

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Step into a world where culinary artistry takes center stage. Star Chefs Guntas Sethi Bhasin and Ajay Chopra will lead captivating cooking demonstrations, offering glimpses into the rich tapestry of European agri-food products. Beyond the tastings, immerse yourself in informative sessions, tastings, and product workshops throughout the event, providing a comprehensive exploration of European food and farming culture.

But the culinary adventure doesn't end there. Extend your journey to VINEXPO, located at Booth F50 in Hall 1B, where you can explore the diverse world of European beverages. Sample premium wines, beers, and spirits, and indulge in the art of pairing these libations with high-quality European cheeses. Discover firsthand the authenticity, quality, and diversity that set European beverages apart in the market.

For those with a keen eye for business opportunities, the EU Pavilion will host over 50 company representatives, facilitating B2B matchmaking sessions on December 7 and 8. These sessions offer invaluable opportunities for Indian buyers, retailers, and distributors to connect with European businesses across various food and drink sectors.

Adding depth to the experience is the conference titled "The EU and India: A Partnership in Food Excellence," scheduled for December 8 from 11:00 to 11:30. B2B professionals can gain insights into specific agri-food product categories and practical strategies for marketing and distributing EU products in India. Eminent speakers, including EU Commissioner for Agriculture Janusz Wojciechowski, will address the audience.

The EU's participation in SIAL and VINEXPO 2023 is part of its 'More than Food' campaign, actively promoting outstanding European agricultural products on a global stage. For the latest information and updates, visit the official 'More than Food India' webpage.

Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the extraordinary world of European culinary traditions and premium beverages at the EU Pavilions at SIAL and VINEXPO. From December 7 to 9, 2023, experience the excellence of European food and drinks, and elevate your culinary journey to new heights.

For further information and updates, please visit the official More than Food India webpage.

For media inquiries, please contact: sial2023@agripromotion.eu

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.
Renowned entrepreneur and humanitarian Mr Illyas Muhamed, hailing from Kerala and leaving an indelible mark in Karnataka, emerges as a beacon of resilience, entrepreneurial prowess, and promising dedication to human rights and social welfare.

With nearly a decade of business expertise, Mr Illyas Muhamed has navigated the intricacies of the stock market and garment exporting. He has also immersed himself in human rights research, gaining insights into the challenges faced by diverse communities nationwide.

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Beyond the boardroom, Mr. Illyas Muhamed has actively contributed to more than 10 NGOs, solidifying his position as a formidable social worker.

Illyas Mohammad holds key positions in esteemed organisations. These diverse roles underscore his dedication to fostering positive change and building a society rooted in justice and social well-being.

Mr Illyas's journey commenced in Bangalore, driven by a pursuit of higher education. Despite facing adversity that interrupted his formal studies, his determination remained unshaken. Undeterred, he delved into various industries, becoming proficient in finance and the stock market.

The pinnacle of his entrepreneurial journey unfolded with the establishment of Thairich Venture Pvt. Ltd., marking the commencement of his remarkable success in the garment industry. From modest beginnings, his company expanded its export operations to the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. The ownership of the Vessel Yard at Mangalore Port is a testament to his industrial prowess.

However, Mr. Illyas Muhamed envisions a future where his impact on society transcends boundaries. As a member of over 20 charitable foundations, he aspires to establish a foundation by 2025 that not only provides care and education for children with disabilities but also fosters their integration into society. His dream project includes installing a specialised school tailored to the unique needs of differently-abled children.

Mr Illyas Muhamed envisions creating meaningful employment opportunities for boys and girls from orphanages in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka after completing Teacher Training Courses (TTC). At a young age, he has become a symbol of commitment to community welfare, setting an example for the youth by navigating the intersection of business success and a deep sense of social responsibility.

In commerce and compassion, Mr Illyas is a testament to the transformative power of dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to positively impacting society, particularly through his heartfelt faith in empowering and uplifting the lives of children with disabilities.

For more information, please visit:

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National, 6th December 2023: Metropolis Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Metropolis Healthcare, is thrilled to announce the commencement of the 6th edition of the annual 'MedEngage Scholarship Program 2023-24.' Applications are now open for scholarships and research grants catering to undergraduate and postgraduate medical students across all years of MBBS education, spanning post graduate training years of MD / MS / DNB along with the intervening internship year.

As the MedEngage Scholarship Program celebrates a significant 5-year milestone coinciding with the establishment of the Metropolis Foundation, the announcement of MedEngage 2.0 marks a pivotal moment in the program's evolution. In this post-COVID digitized era, enriched with advancements like AI and Chat GPT, the Foundation recognizes the pressing need to elevate the MedEngage program to a more profound and advanced format. This strategic evolution directly responds to the dynamic needs of the current times and the aspirations of our young prodigies in the medical field.

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Metropolis eagerly anticipates hosting a larger event this year, celebrating, and honouring the young talents who represent the future leaders in the healthcare sector.

In alignment with its unwavering commitment to societal well-being, the Metropolis Foundation acknowledges the paramount importance of supporting government initiatives aimed at uplifting fellow Indians residing in 112 aspirational districts. This commitment extends to more effectively addressing the diverse needs of the medical community, including those facing unique challenges and hailing from lesser privileged families. Furthermore, the Foundation is dedicated to fostering a culture of research innovation within the medical community. In line with the same, the foundation is thrilled to announce the rekindling of MedEngage in its 2.0 version. The scope of MedEngage 2.0 is broadened to encompass all years of medical students, and we are committed to awarding scholarships to 280 medical students in the current year.

The MedEngage Scholarship Program, envisioned by Metropolis Chairman Dr. Sushil Shah, stands as a holistic medical outreach program designed to nurture young medical talent, shaping the future of healthcare acumen in India. MedEngage has emerged as one of Metropolis' successful CSR initiatives over the last five years, awarding scholarships to 250 students from over 150 medical colleges in the FY 22-23. In addition to financial assistance, MedEngage provides students with world-class laboratory support, fostering academic research excellence. The program also offers opportunities for Observership Programs, Academic Research Support, Laboratory Tours, Internships, MedTalk webinars with health care wisdom and expertise crunched for our young.

Commenting on the launch, Dr. Duru Shah, Chairperson, Metropolis Foundation, said: We firmly believe in the pivotal role that education plays in the holistic development of the nation's youth. We are delighted to support bright young medical students who aspire to make meaningful contributions and require funding for research or thesis endeavours. The MedEngage program embodies our commitment to enhancing the healthcare research and academic landscape in India. Our goal is to empower and encourage students to actively contribute to the evolving healthcare ecosystem.

Dr. Kirti Chadha, Chief Scientific Officer and Group Head-CSR, Metropolis Healthcare Limited said: As a socially responsible corporate company and citizens, Metropolis wants to support the young medical talent in the country in multiple ways, by widening the scope of MedEngage program. We have designed an all-encompassing program that covers academic, research and innovation. Our team of 250+ doctors and 3000+ member scientific team will handhold the students in publishing more research papers and assist them in the pursuit of science, research and innovation.

Since its inception, MedEngage has reached over 500 institutes, with more than 5000 students registering for scholarships and other benefits. For detailed information, students can visit www.med-engage.com. The application portal is open from December 1st, 2023, to January 15, 2024. For inquiries, students can contact the MedEngage Support Team at support@med-engage.com or WhatsApp them at +91 9152211510.

Deloitte serves as the process partner for the MedEngage Scholarship Program, with applications evaluated by an eminent panel of jury members from the healthcare fraternity and external bodies. The winners will be announced in February 2024, followed by a felicitation ceremony in March 2024.

Metropolis eagerly anticipates hosting a larger event this year, celebrating, and honouring the young talents who represent the future leaders in the healthcare sector.

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.
India, 6th December 2023: Parul University celebrated the culmination of its 7th Annual Convocation Ceremony, marking the commencement of professional journeys for 9,980 students. The event, attended by 16,000 guests, showcased the university's substantial growth and increasing influence on both national and global platforms.

Honorary guests Mr. Boman Irani and Ms. Vaani Kapoor graced the occasion, offering inspirational messages to the graduates, encouraging them to utilize their knowledge and skills for global progress. The diverse group of graduates represented various fields, including Management, Engineering, Pharmacy, Medicine, Commerce, Arts, Applied Science, Design, Architecture, Liberal Arts, and Law.

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The ceremony highlighted remarkable achievements

The ceremony highlighted remarkable achievements, such as a notable rise in Ph.D. graduates, 82 students receiving gold medals, 6 exceptional alumni awards, and 31 merit certificates for academic excellence. Three outstanding students were honored with the prestigious President's Gold Medal for the best start-up of the year.

The distinguished guests, including President Dr. Devanshu Patel, Provost Dr. Amit Ganatra, Registrar Prof. Manish Pandya, Vice Presidents Dr. Parul Patel and Dr. Komal Patel, along with members of the Governing Body, Board of Management, and Academic Council, graced the ceremony with their presence.

The ceremony underscored Parul University's commitment to fostering innovation, excellence, and career development.

The event also acknowledged the contributions of notable alumni, such as Dhara Pathak (NASA), Mohammed Vayada (Google), Gautam Jha (Indian Navy), Akshar Patel (Tesla), Ajay Zampda (Government of Gujarat), and Kuldeep Parasaniya (Blueberry Soft), recognizing their accomplishments and impact in their respective fields.

Several gold medalists have already embarked on successful careers with leading companies like Adani, Aixtor, Einfochips, Hilti Manufacturing, and Piramal Pharma Solutions. Others have chosen paths in civil services or pursued further studies, demonstrating the versatility and excellence of Parul University graduates.

The President's gold medal for the best start-up was awarded to Jahnavi Puppala, Surya Teja Kadam, and Rajesh Chintada, founders of ST7 Surveillance Solutions Pvt. Ltd. Their tech-based platform offers live cybercrime solutions, AI tools, CYFO browsing, and encrypted messaging tools.

The ceremony underscored Parul University's commitment to fostering innovation, excellence, and career development among its graduates, setting them on a trajectory for success.

In his address, Mr. Boman Irani emphasized the importance of self-pride, sharing personal anecdotes of overcoming challenges and taking risks to achieve success. He urged graduates to support those who may appear weak, citing his own experiences of persevering in the face of adversity.

Ms. Vaani Kapoor, in her insightful speech, emphasized the power of belief, the value of friendships, and the importance of continuous learning. She congratulated the university for upholding Indian culture and encouraged graduates to be sources of light for others.

Dr. Devanshu Patel, in his Presidential Remarks, drew parallels between self-belief and the legendary tale of Hanumanji, urging graduates to exercise discretion, use common sense, and value humility and respectfulness towards others. He stressed the importance of acknowledging the contributions of all and building successful teams with a shared vision.

Dr. Patel encouraged graduating candidates to express gratitude to their parents and teachers, acknowledging their role in laying the foundation for future success. He concluded by urging graduates to become individuals of character, cultivating polite hearts and respectful souls as they embark on their professional journeys.

Parul University remains committed to shaping the next generation of leaders, innovators, and contributors to society, with the 7th Annual Convocation serving as a testament to its dedication to excellence and holistic education.

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India, December 06, 2023: RankON Technologies Private Limited, , a premier Lucknow-based Web Development and Digital Marketing company recently bagged the esteemed Clutch Global Award for International SEO for 2023.This esteemed recognition highlights the companys outstanding presence within the dynamic digital marketing arena, where it has been prominent in helping businesses thrive for over 5 years. With a comprehensive array of services such as SEO services, Google and Facebook ads, website development, graphics design, and content writing, RankON Technologies Private Limited stands out as an exceptional provider committed to client satisfaction.

The award-winning journey of RankON Technologies Private Limited' can be traced back to its team's tireless efforts and diligent work ethic. Trusted by over 300 domestic and international clients, the company proudly boasts an outstanding 99% job success rate on Upwork, which further underscores its dedication to delivering excellence in every endeavour undertaken.

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Mr. Alok Kumar, the Director of RankON Technologies Private Limited, expressed his gratitude on behalf of the entire team. He said, We are thrilled to receive the Clutchs 2023 International SEO Award. This achievement is a testament to our team's hard work and relentless devotion. We are overjoyed and grateful to be recognized for our digital marketing services! This will further fuel our determination to exceed client expectations through innovation and excellence in digital marketing! The success isn't only ours; rather, it belongs to each team member who played an essential part in our journey.

RankON Technologies Private Limited has solidified itself as an industry leader by offering an array of services ranging from Website Design and Development to Online Reputation Management, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Content Marketing (CM), Social Media Optimization (SMO), Email Marketing (EM), Logo Design and Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising/Google Ads. The company leaves no stone unturned when helping businesses gain a digital edge.

Established in 2018, the company has assisted several businesses worldwide to improve their digital presence. Furthermore, the company stands out in the market for its ability to tailor digital marketing strategies for individual business needs. Not only does the company design strategies, but it also provides full-scale digital marketing services as a digital marketing provider with years of experience.

Talking about the future plans, Mr. Alok Kumar further added, Our commitment doesn't end with this award; rather, it fuels our mission further. With future plans, including providing high-quality services and enhanced client satisfaction, we're ready for more. The enthusiasm and dedication that earned us this prestigious recognition are driving our team forward; more motivated than ever, we strive towards excellence to leave an impactful mark in this industry."

As RankON Technologies Private Limited looks toward its future, it remains dedicated to setting high standards and producing exceptional results. Quality service delivery has always been its cornerstone, making it a reliable partner for businesses seeking to advance their digital presence.

To conclude, Clutchs 2023 International SEO Award recognition of RankON Technologies Private Limited serves to demonstrate its dedication and excellence within the digital marketing landscape. The journey, marked by relentless effort and client focus, solidifies RankON Technologies Private Limited as a reliable player within its industry - ready to drive businesses toward digital success.

For more information about RankON Technologies Private Limited, please visit: https://www.rankontechnologies.com/

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray has opened a front against billionaire Gautam Adani's Adani Group. The leader, who lost his chief ministerial post last year because of a rebellion of his party's MLAs, said he would spearhead a march to the Mumbai office of the conglomerate on December 16. The announcement comes amid a massive rally in the stocks of the Adani Group on the stock markets. Here's why Thackeray plans to take on Adani. Uddhav Thackeray

Thackeray claimed on Tuesday that the Maharashtra government provided special favours to the conglomerate, which had bagged the Dharavi redevelopment project.

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He said many suspicious decisions had been taken by the government to unduly favour the Adani Group in the redevelopment project of the country's biggest slums.

"It also includes a TDR (Transferable Development Rights) sale clause which will benefit the Adani group significantly. To protect the interests of the residents of Dharavi, the Shiv Sena will march to the Adani Group office on December 16. I will lead the march," the former Maharashtra chief minister said.

What is the Dharavi development project and controversy regarding it?

In July, the Adani Group bagged the Maharashtra government's contract to redevelop 259 hectares under the Dharavi redevelopment project.

"Enough information is available about the redevelopment project which raises suspicion about whether the government is trying to give benefit to Adani at the cost of Dharavi residents," Thackeray added.

Thackeray said the government has made it mandatory for all builders to buy first of 40 percent transferable development rights from the Adani Group firm to develop any project in Mumbai.

He said the government TDR could have been sold off. However, the government has allowed to profit a private company from it, he claimed. He said why would the residents of Dharavi get small houses if the company was going to earn huge profits.

Also read: Adani Group can now earn more from TDR in Dharavi Redevelopment Project

Thackeray demanded that the project should be developed by the state government. He claimed the government would kick out 90000 slum-dwellers that are not considered eligible for rehabilitation under the project.

He said the Adani Group would also get projects like the government colony in Bandra, Abhyudaya Nagar and Adarsh Nagar.

He wondered whether the government would give the entire Mumbai to "one person".

The controversy erupted over the state government's recent decision to change the Development Control Rules (DCR), allowing the use of Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) without an indexation. This change reportedly mandates all city builders to buy the first 40% of their required TDR from DRP only.

Also read: Why concessions for Adani in Dharavi project, asks Uddhav

The Congress had called the decision the Maharashtra government's Diwali gift to the Adani Group.

The Urban Development Department of the state government through a notification modified the rules. As per the old rules, there was a provision of indexation for using TDR which means that there would not be any cap on area-specific use of the TDR. For instance, if 1,000 square feet of TDR is generated from a specific project, the same quantum is not allowed to be used in plush markets like south Mumbai and only 100 square feet of it is allowed to be used. The modification of notification means there will be an equal quantum of generated TDR available for use. In short, the total area generated out of the TDR could be utilised now in areas like south Mumbai, Bandra, Juhu, Vile Parle, where real estate is costlier.

This also made it mandatory for the builders in Mumbai to buy the first 40 percent of TDR from the project, reportedly profiting the group.

The Adani Group had won the DRP with a bid of 5069 crore.

With inputs from PTI, Saurabha Kulshreshtha

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Volkswagen India is conducting priority inspections for vehicles affected by flooding in Chennai following the havoc caused by Cyclone Michaung over the past two days, news agency PTI reported. Chennai: Vehicles stuck on a flooded road after heavy rainfall owing to Cyclone Michaung, in Chennai, Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023. (PTI)

Apart from Volkswagen, Maruti Suzuki India, Mahindra & Mahindra, Hyundai Motor, and luxury car manufacturer Audi have also offered assistance to customers affected by the cyclone and floods in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.

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Videos shared on social media depicted residential areas in the city still surrounded by stagnant water due to the heavy rainfall from Cyclone Michaung. These videos highlighted that several residents were trapped inside their homes.

What did Volkswagen India ensure for customers?

According to PTI, Volkswagen India has communicated essential instructions to dealerships across Chennai, aiming to guarantee sufficient staff and the necessary spare parts for carrying out repair work.

The German automobile manufacturer further affirmed its commitment to promptly addressing flood-related issues identified during the priority comprehensive service check of their vehicles.

With a 'Customer-First' approach, the company emphasised its focus on assisting stranded customers by providing complimentary Roadside Assistance, the company said in a statement.

"Necessary standardised repair guidelines have been issued across dealerships and the company will ensure adequate manpower and availability of spare parts across dealerships to ensure quick service experience," the company's statement on Wednesday said.

Steps taken by other automakers:

Maruti Suzuki

Maruti Suzuki India has joined forces with its dealer partners, implementing various arrangements at its workshops. Prior to the heavy rains brought by cyclone Michang in parts of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, the company proactively disseminated around seven lakh SMS alerts outlining precautionary measures to safeguard customers' cars, as stated in a report by PTI quoting the company's statement.

The company has taken proactive steps, mobilising 46 tow trucks from nearby cities and activating 34 roadside assistance vehicles for swift response. Additionally, they have increased their inventory of spare parts to ensure readiness and have collaborated with insurance companies to expedite claim processing and settlements.

Mahindra & Mahindra

Mahindra & Mahindra has begun providing free roadside assistance, inspections without charges, and damage evaluations along with financial relief in the form of special discounts to its customers residing in regions affected by Cyclone Michaung.

Audi

Audi in Chennai has announced round-the-clock free roadside assistance for cars owned by customers affected by the floods resulting from Cyclone Michaung. In light of the unprecedented challenges faced by the city of Chennai, we are making every possible effort to assist our customers in the city, Audi India Head Balbir Singh Dhillon was quoted as saying by PTI.

Hyundai

Hyundai Motor India Foundation (HMIF), the CSR arm of Hyundai Motor India, has announced a financial support of 3 crore to help communities affected by the Michaung cyclone in Tamil Nadu. The company's onsite teams are working along with state government authorities to deliver emergency relief, including food, water, shelter, medical assistance and other essential commodities to affected communities, it added.

(With PTI inputs)
Punjab Polices State Special Operation Cell (SSOC) busted a terrorist recruitment, funding and aiding module with the arrest of a Pakistan-based terrorist Lakhbir Rodes close associate, identified as Paramjit Singh, alias Punjab Singh, alias Dhadi, from Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar. Paramjit Singh in police custody. (HT photo)

Paramjit Singh, a British citizen and founder member of the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF), was initially involved in terror activities in Punjab in early 90s and was later arrested in 2003. He was convicted in cases pertaining to terrorist activities.

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After completion of his sentence, the accused returned to the UK but continued his activities with the ISYF by working as a motivator, recruiter and fund raiser for the organisation in the UK and other European countries.

Director general of police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said in 2021, Dhadis name was figured for his involvement in reorganising of ISYF cadre in Punjab by arranging and providing funds and militant hardware to target specific persons for disrupting peace and harmony in the state. Following Dhadis involvement in terror funding and other subversive activities in Punjab, an LOC (lookout circular) was issued to ensure his arrest, he said.

The DGP said investigation is on to unearth and expose the whole terrorist network.

Sharing more details, an SSOC spokesperson said Dhadi was detained by immigration authorities at the Amritsar airport on Monday, while he was going to board a plane to the UK on a British passport in the name of Punjab Singh.

Subsequently, the accused was arrested in a case under sections 13, 16, 17, 18, 18-B and 20 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), sections 3, 4 and 5 of the Explosives Act, section 25 of the Arms Act, sections 21, 25, 27-A and 29 of the NDPS Act and sections 120, 120-B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) registered at SSOC police station in Amritsar.

He said during preliminary investigations, it came to light that Dhadi was regularly in touch with Lakhbir Singh Rode. The accused was a frequent visitor to Pakistan and on the instructions of Rode, he used to identify and handpick youth using social media platforms to motivate them to be part of terrorist activities, he said.

Rode, 72, who was the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF)s self-styled head and nephew of Khalistani militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, died of cardiac arrest in Pakistan. He was listed as an individual terrorist under the UAPA.
With China populating the barren region along the cold desert bordering India, the Himachal Pradesh government has sought permission from governor Shiv Pratap Shukla under the Forest Conversation Act (FCA) for starting agricultural activities along the international border. Chitkul village in the Spiti valley of Lahaul and Spiti district, bordering China. The Himachal Pradesh government is keen to start agrarian activities in the border districts to counter Chinas move of populating areas on its side. (HT file photo)

The state government has sought permission from the governor to allow 20,000 farmers to cultivate barren land. The government plans to provide at least five acres of barren land to farmers in Kalpa and Pooh sub divisions in Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti districts that share their border with China.

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Also read: 8% jump in violent crimes in Himachal, reveals NCRB data

The state cabinet recently approved relaxing the FCA for agrarian activities and sent the request to the governor for his consent, said state horticulture and tribal development minister Jagat Singh Negi, who represents Kinnaur in the assembly. Article 5 of the Constitution enables relaxing FCA regulation in the tribal areas to boost employment, particularly through horticulture, and generate income from land.

Negi met the governor along with the legislators of Pangi, Bharmour and Lahaul and Spiti besides members of the Tribal Advisory Council for a positive outcome.

Though the border with China has remained peaceful so far, particularly during the Chinese aggression in 1962, the minister said: There are a lot of things happening on the other side. We need to be alert.

To counter Chinas dual village programme, the government plans to develop 76 of the 210 villages in Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti districts under the vibrant village programme. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sanctioned 4,800 crore in the Union budget for the programme, started on February 17, 2023. Of the outlay, 2,500 crore will be spent on the creation of road infrastructure in the border areas.

China is building double-use border villages that can house troops and the local population. Indian intelligence agencies say 628 such dual-use villages have come up along the 3,448-km Line of Actual Control since 2017 in the border states of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The literacy rate of this border block is 84.64%. There are a total of 2583 households in the Spiti border block. Under the vibrant village programme, the government will strengthen health facilities in the tribal regions. Due to the harsh terrain and weather, few doctors are reluctant to practise in the region. The government is making provisions for mobile dispensaries in the remote villages besides improving the communication system.

After the state government expressed concern about local youngsters migrating from the border villages, director general of police Sanjay Kundu sent a team of five police commandants of different battalions to the forward areas amid escalating tension following the Galwan Valley faceoff in 2020. The police cited lack of facilities in the border areas as the main reason for the migration of youngsters. The lack of economic activities in the border areas due to lack of opportunities aggravated the problem.

Negi said infrastructure requirements, such as road, electricity and telecommunication systems, need a relook in the tribal regions.

The Himachal Pradesh government has been demanding more funds for developing transport and road facilities in the region. It has proposed the Centre connect the border areas of Uttarakhand and the state for the construction of a road between Brua in Kinnaur and Harshil in Uttarakhand via the 17,000-ft Lam Khaga Pass.
A private school on Wednesday received a hoax call about a bomb on its premises causing concern among the school faculty, who immediately informed the police. HT Image

A police officer said, Delhi Public School received a hoax call about a bomb on its school premises. A police team, along with a bomb disposal squad, immediately reached the school and launched searches.

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In a post on X, Jammu police said it conducted extensive search and sanitised the area, however, the threat turned out to be hoax. A case was registered.
The court of a judicial magistrate ordered the registration of a first information report (FIR) against a retired deputy superintendent of police (DSP) Devraj for misplacing the file for a five-year old case of forgery. A Ludhiana court has ordered an FIR against a retired DSP for misplacing a five-year old case file. (HT File)

The court of judicial magistrate Ravipal Singh also ordered the police to reconstruct the file within two months after taking documents from the complainant, Sumeet Sofat, a city-based doctor in its November 29 order.

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Sofat said he had filed a complaint against Congress leader Simmi Pashan and Ramesh Pashan to the police, but no action was taken, following which he had moved the court. Later, the Division number 5 police on July 13, 2018, lodged a forgery case following a court order.

He added that after lodging the FIR, when the police did not submit a chargesheet, he again moved court. During the court proceedings, it was found that the case file had been misplaced. Following his complaint, the court ordered the Division number 5 police station house officer (SHO) to trace the file.

SHO sub-Inspector Neeraj Chaudhary in his statement on September 19 said the FIR was transferred to Division number 8 after a change in the jurisdiction. Assistant sub-inspector (ASI) Sukhraj Singh deputed at the latter in his statement claimed that the file was last traced with Devraj, who was a sub-inspector at the time and incharge at the Ghumar Mandi police post in 2018.

The court ordered that an FIR be registered against Devraj and directed the police to investigate the role of any other person in misplacing the file.
The inspector general (IG) of the BSFs Jammu frontier, DK Boora, on Tuesday said drone activities on the 198 km long Indo-Pak international border has witnessed a significant dip in Jammu. HT Image

Boora attributed the decline to the smashing of a Pakistan network that existed on the Indian side, which used to pick the consignments dropped by the drones.

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Pakistan would certainly like to send drones but the BSF is alert and using technology. Various intelligence agencies and police in hinterland are active and no border populace is involved (in picking Pakistani consignments). Besides, smashing Pakistani network on the border has resulted in the decline of drone activities, Boora told media persons on 59th Raising Day of the BSF here.

When asked whether the BSF has analysed any security implications in the wake of Israel-Palestine war where Hamas fighters used motorised para-gliders to attack Israel, he said, Certainly any conflict in the world has security implications and discussions do take place but we believe that man behind the machine is more important.

Our innovations are close to ground realities. Technology alone cant be trusted. I dont think that Pakistan would try something like this. And, when BSF is on guard, the citizens of the nation dont need to worry, he added.

If Pakistan tried to do something like this, they would get a stinging response, he asserted.

The IG BSF admitted that technology always added more teeth to the fire power but asserted alert soldier behind the machine was more important.

Technology is certainly helping us but our jawans are always alert on the IB. We assure the countrymen that borders are secure. Farmers can do farming without any fear and fellow citizens can sleep without worrying about the border because BSF jawans are awake and alert on the border, he said.

Our boots on the ground are alive and effective. Any obstacle (Anti infiltration obstacle system) is not an obstacle unless and until it is under 24x7 surveillance and well covered by fire power, he added.

Boora also informed that in recent ceasefire violations by Pakistan in Arnia and Ramgarh sectors, BSF retaliated strongly that caused over half a dozen fatal casualties and injuries to 20 others besides inflicting heavy losses upon Pakistan.

Our priority is to maintain peace because it is imperative for the civilian population. It would be good for Pakistan to understand the importance of peace. Otherwise, it would get the same retaliation in case of any truce violation, he said.

The IG further informed that post-skirmishes with Pakistan, there was peace on the IB but it cant be called permanent.

if Pakistan wanted to vitiate it, we are prepared to deal with the situation and we will also take care of our border population, Boora said.

He also informed that winter strategy was put in place along the IB and BSF would not allow any infiltration to happen.
Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Wednesday that he has directed the audit of the Delhi Jal Board by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG ) to ascertain whether there have been any irregularities amid allegations of misappropriation of funds in the water utility of the capital. Delhi Jal Board (Representative Photo)

Kejriwal said that an audit covering the last 15 years will be undertaken by CAG. We have ordered a CAG audit of the last 15 years of records of the Delhi Jal Board. CAG is a third-party and the biggest agency in the country. Things will become clearer now. ...If someone has committed irregularities, they should be punished. If no irregularities have been committed, then those who level baseless allegations will get to know, he added.

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He said that the audit will be carried out in accordance with Section 69, DJB Act and Section 19(3), CAG (Duties, Power and Conditions of Services) Act.

Speaking to the reporters, Kejriwal further said that there could be a water and sewage crisis in the coming days owing to the non-release of funds.

Also Read: CM Mann says Centre deliberately not releasing funds for Punjab

Delhi water minister Atishi said that the finance department has raised concerns regarding financial mismanagement, but has not pointed out specific instances of alleged improprieties or errant officials which is what makes a CAG audit essential.

The decision to undertake the audit comes in the wake of a series of allegations of corruption. The Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) Delhi unit had last week alleged corruption in the allocation of works for the upgradation of Delhi Jal Boards ten sewage treatment plants while demanding a probe by the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva had also written to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena requesting him to order an investigation into the matter.

The BJP and the Aam Aadmi Party have been sparring over alleged irregularities in the Delhi Jal Board since last month.

DJB is also undergoing a financial crisis with the government alleging that the finance department has not released the second instalment of grant in aid for the agency.

Last week, the DJB had informed the Delhi high court that it had submitted a final annual account report for three years (from 2015 to 2018) with the national auditor, as prescribed under the law, and to direct CAG to conduct an audit of the board following Delhi BJP leaders petition seeking sought direction to DJB.

However, the annual accounts for 2018-21 are yet to be audited by the CAG or the Accountant General.

DJB had also informed the court that to expedite the entire process in a time-bound manner, it will appoint a nodal officer for supervision of work of Annual Accounts, adding that the observations of CAG will be replied as early as possible and preferably within three months after receiving the same.

The finance department had argued that Rs.1,598 crore was released to the Jal Board in June earlier this year and further funds will be released based on evidence of the progress of works and geotagging to ensure that public funds are not being misappropriated.
The Delhi High Court on Wednesday asked the Centre to decide expeditiously, preferably within three months, a representation to ban and cancel the licence to keep "dangerous" dog breeds such as Pitbull, Terriers, American Bulldog and Rottweiler. The petition highlighted that there had been many incidents of such dog breeds attacking people including their owners.(Reuters)

A bench headed by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan asked the petitioner, who made the representation in October, to let the authorities "take a call" on the issue as they were the ones who draft the relevant laws and regulations.

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During the hearing, the court also stressed the need for promoting the local breeds of dogs which are "sturdy".

"Indian breeds need to be taken care of. They are far more sturdy. They don't fall sick that often because they have acclimatized. Today we are vocal for local," the court observed.

The central government lawyer said the representation has already been sent to the department concerned and a decision will be taken after consultation with stakeholders.

"They (the authorities) shall decide representation as expeditiously as possible, preferably within three months," the bench, also comprising Justice Mini Pushkanra, ordered.

On October 5, a division-bench headed by then Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma had refused to entertain the petitioner's PIL on the issue, saying they should first approach the government authorities with its grievance.

In its petition, Legal Attorneys & Barristers Law Firm had alleged that dog breeds like Bulldog, Rottweiler, Pitbull, Terriers, Neapolitan Mastiff are "dangerous dogs" and are banned in more than 12 countries including India but the Municipal Corporation of Delhi was still registering them to be kept as pets.

The petition highlighted that there had been many incidents of such dog breeds attacking people including their owners.

"lt is the need of the hour to ban and cancel the licence to keep dogs such as Pitbull, Terriers, American bulldog, Rottweiler, Japanese Tosa, Bandog, Neapolitan Mastiff, Wolf Dog, Boerboel, Presa Canario, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, Cane Corso, Dogo Argentino and cross breeds of above mentioned dogs," it had stated.

The petition had asserted that it was the duty of the Centre and the state government to act as welfare state and to take preemptive action to save the lives of the citizens from the risk of any major dog bite incident by these "dangerous" breeds.
The three, all residents of Shadipur area in Delhi, were nabbed around 5 pm on Tuesday following close physical and CCTV-based surveillance mounted by the force on the station premises. HT Image

The women, along with 4,000 cash that was recovered from them, were handed over to the Delhi Metro police for registration of a proper case and further investigation, the officer said.

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The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) guards the about 249 stations of the Delhi Metro network in the national capital region and it has deployed about 12,500 personnel to provide a counter-terrorist cover to the facility that is used by an average about 26-30 lakh passengers daily.
Snatchers have targeted two separate wedding processions in different parts of the city, grabbing a garland of currency notes strung around the neck of the groom in one case, and stealing a cash-filled bag from the father of a groom in the other case, police officers said. While a minor allegedly involved in the first case has been apprehended, police are yet to crack the other case, officers said. (File)

While a minor allegedly involved in the first case has been apprehended, police are yet to crack the other case, officers said.

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The first incident occurred on November 30 at Gandhi Nagar in east Delhi, while the groom was riding a horse chariot. In his police complaint, the grooms father said the snatcher suddenly climbed onto the chariot, pulled the garland of currency notes from the grooms neck, and fled.

He allegedly sprinted away before people at the wedding could respond, said Rohit Meena, deputy commissioner of police (Shahdara), adding that the garland had currency notes of the denomination of 50 and 100.

The police did not identify the victim in this case.

Acting on the complaint, the police registered a case at the Gandhi Nagar police station. CCTV footage from surrounding areas helped police identify and apprehend the 17-year-old snatcher, said Meena.

The boy is addicted to liquor and carried out the crime to get some quick money, he said.

The second crime occurred on Monday, near Jail Road at Harsh Vihar in northeast Delhi, while Jai Narayan, 70, was in his sons wedding procession.

Narayan told police that three men on a motorcycle drove very close to him and snatched a cash-filled bag from his hand. They rode away before I could note down their motorcycle number or see their faces, he said, adding that the bag had around 1 lakh.

The police said they have registered a case and are investigating the matter.
Winter vacation in Delhi schools has been reduced from 15 to six days and will begin from January 1, 2024, a circular from the Directorate of Education said on Wednesday. Winter vacation in Delhi schools has been reduced from 15 to six days and will begin from January 1, 2024(HT file photo)

In a circular, the Directorate of Education said that the winter vacation for the academic session 2023-24 was scheduled to be from January 1, 2024 to January 15.

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"However, in order to ensure that our students are not adversely affected due to the poor air quality in Delhi, a portion of winter Vacation was observed from November 9 to November 18," the DoE circular read.

The remaining portion of the winter vacation for academic session 2023-2024 is scheduled to be observed from January 1 to January 6, 2024.

"All the Heads of Schools of Delhi are hereby directed to disseminate this information among all the stakeholders including the teaching/non-teaching staff, students and parents," the circular added.
The Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lodged two complaints with the Kolkata Police against 60 ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) legislators for allegedly insulting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah. On Monday, state minister Chandrima Bhattacharya filed two complaints against BJP legislators. (HT PHOTO)

In a post on X on Tuesday, BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari hit out at TMC leaders for trying to smear Modi and Shahs reputation. The TMC thieves had the audacity to try and smear Honble PMs & Honble HMs reputation by hurling all kinds of abuses and engaging in name-calling within the WB [West Bengal] Assembly Premises.

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On Monday, state minister Chandrima Bhattacharya filed two complaints against BJP legislators for wearing T-shirts with an allegedly derogatory remark against chief minister Mamata Banerjee written on them. Bhattacharya said Adhikari led the BJP lawmakers and added they undermined the dignity of the state and its people.

The Calcutta high court on Monday stayed the police notices issued to eight BJP legislators over allegations that they insulted the national anthem last week.

TMC legislators wore black dresses and staged a protest against the Centre for allegedly withholding funds. They allegedly used foul language against Modi and Shah.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh topped the list of states where fake job cards for Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) schemes have been cancelled, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said on Wednesday, attacking the Centre for suspending funds under the same welfare scheme in her state. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee (File Photo)

Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of fake cards. Did the Union rural development ministry take any action? They have stopped giving us funds under MGNREGA, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) and mid-day meal (under PM Poshan). This is gross injustice, Banerjee said in Kolkata.

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On Tuesday, Union minister of state for rural development, Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti, informed the Parliament through a written reply that in Uttar Pradesh, 67,937 and 296,000 fake MNREGA job cards were cancelled in 2021-22 and 2022-23, respectively, accounting for the nations highest figures.

Also Read: TMC demands release of funds for central schemes in LS; minister hits back

During the corresponding period, 95,209 and 27,859 fake job cards were cancelled in Madhya Pradesh and 388 and 5,263 cards were cancelled in Bengal during 2021-22 and 2022-23, respectively, according to her reply to a question raised by the Trinamool Congress (TMC).

Banerjee raised the issue on Wednesday hours after Union rural development minister Giriraj Singh said in Delhi that Bengal is submerged in corruption.

The entire state of West Bengal is submerged in corruption and the chief minister is dancing with (actor) Salman Khan, Singh was heard saying in a video clip that went viral on social media.

Unperturbed by Singhs attack, Banerjee said, The BJP is fooling people since the day it came to power. They are the biggest pickpockets looting the common man. Demonetisation was the first gimmick and then came the promise of depositing Rs.15 lakh into the bank accounts of every Indian. Singh told me a day ago that I should meet the Prime Minister and discuss the suspension of funds. I met him thrice earlier and I am willing to see him again when we visit Delhi to raise our demands.

They (Centre) have sent 107 teams to Bengal so far. Let them do whatever they feel like. The funds must be released, Banerjee said.

Amid allegations over the irregularities in different centrally-sponsored schemes in West Bengal as well as the unpaid central dues, central inspection teams have visited the state for inquiries.

On Wednesday, a team sent by the rural development ministry visited some villages in the Hooghly district to inquire into alleged irregularities in the disbursement of funds under PMAY and MNREGA.

In January, a Central team looking into allegations of irregularities had visited several villages in West Bengals Malda district.

In October, the chief ministers nephew and TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee led agitations in Delhi and Kolkata protesting the suspension of these funds.

Meanwhile, sharing Singhs video on social media, Suvendu Adhikari, leader of the Opposition in the Bengal legislative assembly, wrote, Nero fiddled while Rome burnt. WB CM is Nero 2.0. She is dancing as WB is reeling under tremendous financial burden and limitless corruption.

Hitting back, Bengal finance minister Chandrima Bhattacharya threatened to sue Singh.

The Union minister has no sense of decency. He doesnt even know how to talk about the nations only female chief minister. We will sue him for insulting her, Bhattacharya said.
More than 55,000 posts of school teachers are lying vacant in West Bengal, state education minister Bratya Basu said on Wednesday, a day after his statement in the assembly claiming that there were only 781 vacancies in state-run schools. West Bengal higher education minister Bratya Basu (Twitter Photo)

I had made some statements about vacancies, which has triggered a controversy, Basu said.

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Basu said he had given an approximate figure on Tuesday in the assembly, however, the actual number of vacancies is much more.

Giving in detail, the figures, Basu said, In 2022, we sent a list of 11,765 vacancies to the primary education board. In upper primary, we have sent a list of 14,339 vacancies. On the orders of the Calcutta high court, counselling of candidates is going on now. At the Madhyamik (secondary) level, we have sent a list of more than 13,500 vacancies, and at the higher secondary level, the number is more than 5,500.

As of now, there are 13 vacancies in higher secondary schools. At the secondary level it is 28, upper primary level it is 473 and in primary schools is it 267, he said, adding that the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) claim that there are more than 300,000 vacancies is totally false.

This comes at a time when both central agencies the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation are probing the multi-crore recruitment scam in government schools in the state.

At least three ruling Trinamool Congress legislators, including the former state education minister, along with some former top government officials of the state education department, are now in jail.

Soon after Basus statement, the Opposition stepped up its attack while accusing the government of corruption.

On Tuesday he said there were 781 vacancies and today he is saying there are more than 55,000 vacancies. It seems that the education minister has failed in primary-level mathematics. This is how they suppress and spread false information. They want to confuse the people so that irregularities may continue, Sujan Chakraborty, Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader, told the media on Wednesday.

Rahul Sinha, West Bengal BJP president accused the TMC-led West Bengal government of being involved in scams at every level.

This government is full of scams and irregularities. The party leaders are involved in multiple scams and have stolen money from everywhere. Now they are even stealing numbers even as job aspirants are demonstrating and demanding placements. If this is how the state education minister behaves, then one can well imagine the status of education in the state, Sinha said.
Uttar Pradesh governor Anandiben Patel expressed her displeasure on Wednesday regarding student leaders staging a protest demonstration on the Lucknow University (LU) campus. Dismissing the students protest, the governor questioned the need for a dharna on minor issues when the university is performing well. Uttar Pradesh governor Anandiben Patel. (PTI File Photo)

I was informed that the protesting students aspire to become politicians. Have you ever heard of prime minister Narendra Modi or any other prominent leaders staging a protest? Instead, our students should protest against practices like dowry or child marriage, stated Patel.

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Patel encouraged students to showcase their leadership by actively combating social issues such as dowry and child marriage. She emphasised the importance of positive thinking and urged student leaders to engage in dialogue with university officials to find workable solutions.

Patel advised against disrupting the smooth functioning of campuses and appealed to student leaders to contribute positively by assisting underprivileged students and connecting with the community.

However, student leaders, who have been staging a sit-in for several days to demand the restoration of student union elections on campuses, disagreed with the governors perspective.

They argued that their fight for the reinstatement of LUSU polls, considered a democratic right of students, was not a minor issue. Various student organisations, including National Students Union of India (NSUI), expressed dissatisfaction with Patels remarks, stating that those unfamiliar with student politics could not comprehend its dignity and the struggles faced by student leaders.

As student leaders, we believe that those who have never done student politics cannot understand its dignity and the struggle of student leaders, said student leaders.

The student leaders have also highlighted that several ministers in the current Uttar Pradesh government had participated in LUs student union polls.
Mumbai A mobile phone mechanic, who used to befriend minor girls on social media and then allegedly rape them, has been arrested. In order to hide his tracks, he used to use the mobile phones that had been given to him for repairs to contact the victims, police said, adding that the accused had been evading arrest since the past one month. The couple met in a guest house in Bhayander where the accused allegedly tried to rape her. (IANS)

The accused, identified as Aditya Bhagat, 21, had sent a friend request on Facebook to a 17-year-old girl from Nalasopara two months ago, according to the Mira-Bhayander-Vasai-Virar (MBVV) police. After chatting for a few days, Bhagat had asked her to meet him.

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The couple met in a guest house in Bhayander where the accused allegedly tried to rape her. When the girl refused, he threatened to post her obscene photos on the Internet.

Scared of being defamed, the girl attempted suicide after returning home the next day. The Achole police station registered a rape case against Bhagat under sections 376, 376 (2) and sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO).

PSI Hitendra Vichare, from the MBVV crime branch said that also started investigating along with the police as the case was sensitive. After analysing the mobile phone data and other technical aspects, the police arrested Bhagat on Monday from his mobile repairing shop in Bhayander.

When we checked all the IMEI numbers of the mobiles through which the victims received calls and messages, we found that the phones were given for repairs at the accuseds shop in Bhayander, said a Crime Branch officer. Police is now investigating how many more girls were contacted, blackmailed and raped by Bhagat.
Accordingly, such students will get free education in these varsities and allied colleges. HT Image

In an interaction with vice-chancellors of the state universities on Tuesday, Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil asked the varsities to bear the entire fees of transgender students from their funds.

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"All vice-chancellors unanimously accepted the appeal made by the minister (to provide free education to the students of the transgender community, a statement said.

The meeting attended by senior officials of the Higher and Technical Education Department also reviewed the progress under the New Education Policy (NEP).
On the anniversary of the Babri Masjids demolition on December 6, 1992, Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura experienced a routine day with heightened security measures in place. Two companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and one company of the Rapid Action Force were deployed to prevent any disruptions, responding to calls from fringe elements. Mathura: A view of Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi temple and Shahi Idgah mosque, in Mathura. (PTI FILE IMAFGE)

The implementation of Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code ensured no gatherings in sensitive areas near Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi  Shahi Eidgah Mosque complex and the surrounding market area.

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The city of Mathura was divided into seven sectors and five zones for December 6, with authorities making it clear that no new traditions would be allowed on the day. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) kept a watchful eye on the sensitive locations of Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi and Shahi Eidgah Mosque. The district magistrate and senior superintendent of police held a meeting with priests and religious leaders at the collectorate premises on Tuesday.

Traffic in Mathura city was rerouted for December 6, with vehicles heading toward Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi diverted through alternate routes. Roadways buses were prohibited from entering the area between Goverdhan crossing to Bhuteshwar crossing and from High Way Cut to Dholi Pyau in Mathura city.

Despite calls from some individuals and right-wing organisations to hold events at the purported garbh grah or birthplace of Lord Krishna within the premises of the Shahi Eidgah Mosque, security measures prevented any such activities. Those attempting to breach security were dealt with under legal provisions, with some being restrained at their homes or briefly detained at police stations in Mathura.
LUCKNOW One wetland will be developed as a tourist attraction in each constituency, as decided by the Uttar Pradesh State Wetland Authority (UPSWA) on Wednesday. The initiative aims to engage MLA/public representatives and gram panchayats in the development process. Forest minister Arun K Saxena (left) in the meeting (Sourced)

Arun K Saxena, the minister for forest and climate change (independent charge), chaired the fifth meeting of UPSWA and directed officials to promptly act on the decision while ensuring the active participation of public representatives and gram panchayats. UPSWA also resolved to establish Village Wetland Committees (VWC) under the chairmanship of the respective Pradhan.

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A senior forest officer highlighted the significance of wetlands, saying that their net primary productivity is equivalent to that of forest areas. Wetlands play a crucial role in absorbing carbon from the atmosphere and retaining it for an extended period.

During the meeting, it was decided to officially designate 50 wetlands, covering approximately 1,000 hectares in nine districts of the state, under Wetland Rules, 2017. These wetlands are expected to make a substantial contribution to carbon sequestration, storing an estimated 81 to 216 metric tonnes of carbon per acre.

The authority also approved the management plan for the Upper Ganga River, the first Ramsar site in the state, encompassing an area of 26,590 hectares. Wetlands situated in the riparian zone of the Ganga River will be identified for conservation efforts.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the implementation of the Gangetic Floodplain Wetlands of Uttar Pradesh scheme, funded by the National Mission for Clean Ganga. As part of this scheme, verification of 282 wetlands within a 10 km radius on both sides of the Ganga River is underway.

Key officials -- including Manoj Singh, additional chief secretary, environment, forest, and climate change; and SK Sharma, principal chief conservator of forests and head of forest force -- were present at the meeting.

PIC CAPTION: . (Sourced)
A 32-year-old leader of the Janata Dal-United (JD-U) was shot at and critically injured in Bihars West Champaran on Tuesday evening, police said, adding that they have arrested three people in connection with the incident. (Representative Photo)

Police have identified the victim as Manoj Kushwaha JD-Us district (West Champaran) president of Shiksha Prakash (educational wing). He is also the representative of Valmiki Nagar MP and JD-U leader Sunil Mahto, said police.

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According to the police, at around 7.30pm on Tuesday three men barged into the JD-U leaders house in Lakshmipur village and fired at him from a close range.

All the three assailants have been arrested. The motive behind the attack could not be known immediately. Further interrogation into the matter is underway, said Mahtab Alam, sub-divisional police officer (SDPO), Bettiah (Sadar).

Soon after the incident, the JD-U leader was rushed to the government medical college and hospital (GMCH) at Bettiah, where doctors referred him to Patna, stating his condition was serious, SDPO Alam said.

As his condition deteriorated further while being taken to Patna, he was hospitalised at a private hospital at Motihari, said Shatrudhan Prasad Kushwaha, district president of JD-U.

According to a doctor at GMCH, Ksuhwaha suffered bullet injuries around his chest and his condition is said to be critical.
Miscreants on Wednesday looted 16.5 lakh from an Axis Bank branch near Ara-Nawada police station of Bhojpur district in Bihar. The culprits, believed to be teenagers, entered the bank as customers wanting to open accounts. For representational purposes only. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

While escaping, they also pulled down the shutters of the bank.

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Bhojpur SP Pramod Kumar said five miscreants entered into the bank at 10.15am and escaped with looted cash within four minutes.

The miscreants were also carrying firearms, he said, adding that they locked up all bank employees in a room and looted the money from the cash counter.

After some time, one of the bank employees called the police and informed them that the miscreants were still inside. But by the time the police arrived and surrounded the bank, the miscreants had already escaped.

The police found photos and videos of the miscreants and have launched a hint for those involved.
Congress has hit back at the Janata Dal-United (JD-U), an ally of the party, after the latter criticised and blamed the Congress top management for the partys defeat in the recent assembly polls. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi (File Photo)

Talking to reporters on Tuesday, Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Shakeel Ahmad Khan and All India Congress Committee (AICC) media panellist Prem Chandra Mishra said it felt outrageous when allies resort to targeting the Congress, which always strived for inclusive politics, in public instead of the exposing the nefarious designs of the opponent to grab power by hook or by crooks.

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Also Read: Cong must heed Nitish call for fair deal to all: JD(U)

Those who are questioning the Congress after its defeat in three states polls must rethink their acts in the past, said Khan in an apparent dig at JD-U spokesman KC Tyagi and building construction minister Ashok Chaudhary for their attacks on the party.

Khan said wins and defeats are part and parcel of electoral politics. ...Our partys vote share has gone up, though we did not fare well on the seat tally in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chattisgarh, he added.

The Congress on Sunday suffered a near wipeout in the Hindi heartland as it lost 3-1 to the leading Opposition the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the assembly polls, signalling the need to redraw its strategy for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

JD-U spokesperson K C Tyagi had attacked the Congress leadership, saying the results of assembly polls are a defeat of the Congress as the party never invited or consulted any of its allies in the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc even though socialist parties have historically had a presence in these states. He said the Congress should focus on survival, not revival.

Cabinet minister Ashok Chaudhary blamed the Congresss defeat on its overconfidence while nudging the grand old party to decide on a fresh strategy by taking everyone along.

The non-Congress constituents of the INDIA bloc are also furious about the partys delay in seat talks, and some of them have also started questioning whether the Congress is the weakest link of the coalition.

Also Read: Conceit: Congress slammed by INDIA bloc allies after 3-1 election drubbing

Mishra slammed Chaudharys statement and said everyone in the country knew about the most credible face of the INDIA bloc to lead the coalition in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.

The vote bank of the Congress party is still intact. We have 233 MLAs in the country and are the largest party after the BJP, said Mishra, also an MLC.

Mishra also advised the leaders of the INDIA bloc to stay away from public criticism of one another and discuss the issues if they had the appropriate platforms.
IDBI Bank will close the registration process for Junior Assistant Manager and Executive posts on December 6, 2023. Candidates who want to apply for 2100 posts can do it through the official website of IDBI Bank at idbibank.in. The last date to apply for printing the application is till December 21, 2023. IDBI Bank Recruitment 2023: Last date today to apply for 2100 posts

The online examination for the Junior Assistant Manager post will be conducted on December 31 and the online test for the Executive post is till December 30, 2023.

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Direct link to apply for IDBI Bank Recruitment 2023

IDBI Bank Recruitment 2023: How to apply

To apply for the posts candidates can follow the steps given below.

Visit the official website of IDBI Bank at idbibank.in.

Click on current opening link available on the home page.

A new page will open where candidates will get the link for Junior Assistant Manager and Executive posts.

Click on apply online link and a new page will open.

Register yourself and login to the account.

Fill the application form and make the payment of application fees.

Click on submit and download the page.

Keep a hard copy of the same for further need.

The application fees is 200/- for SC/ST/PwBD candidates and 1000/- for all other candidates. The payment can be made by using Debit Cards (RuPay/Visa/MasterCard/Maestro), Credit Cards, Internet Banking, IMPS, Cash Cards/ Mobile Wallets by providing information as asked on the screen. For more related details candidates can check the official website of IDBI Bank.
In todays day and age, it is not uncommon for high school students and their families to feel lost and confused while comparing multiple destinations and scrolling through seemingly bottomless ranking lists of universities across the globe. Don't chase university rankings - Rather do intensive research on the top universities for your intended area of study.(Getty Images/iStockphoto)

These are probably the most prized and life-transforming years of your life and the onus to find the right college/place to spend these years is squarely upon you - while I can give you a quick framework to use, theres no substitute for good old nose to the grind research. But here are some factors to consider while you deliberate over this critical question.

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Choose a well-balanced landscape

Be it the pristine beaches in California and Spain, vibrant and urban melting pots like London, New York, Toronto, snow-capped mountains of Switzerland, or verdant European towns, one must explore more than what meets the eye!

A well-balanced landscape is one that offers an abundance of educational, professional, and recreational opportunities to learners from the world over. Such destinations attract diverse and talented students and foster innovation and creativitythe tenets of interdisciplinary problem-solving and entrepreneurship.

If you have plans to stay back, to find employment and to possibly immigrate down the line, its important to understand what sort of careers and opportunities the universitys alumni have been able to find in that country, what industries and sectors that institution typically feeds into.

If you are considering careers in highly competitive sectors such as Consulting, Finance, High tech, remember, employers only recruit from a handful of universities called feeder schools. Consider the ease of getting a work visa, immigration/permanent residency as well as the future of the profession/jobs you are interested in, in that country.

Remember, the concept of placements doesnt exist outside of India, the onus to find a job is upon you but some universities have a strong alumni network and student-run career services that can go a long way in helping you get to your dream career.

Craft your own rankings list

If your college list resembles one that is readily available on any popular rankings database, it is likely that you have not spent enough time researching your best-fit school list.

Universities across the world seek students who align well with not just their level of academic rigor, but also their ethos, values, and mission. Dont conclude your research at top universities in x country or a major-wise ranking list.

Other factors to consider are size and type of college (Teaching Assistants teach most of the classes at some of the large National Universities, whereas in smaller Liberal Arts colleges, most of the teaching is done by Professors), academic rigor, size and nature of the student community and environment (collaborative, sink or swim), student diversity, weather, location of the campus (you would be surprised how cold -30 degrees can feel like and how lonely a college town in some remote part of Northeast America can be).

The more meticulous you are, the more likely youll find a place that not only fulfills your academic dreams but helps you grow, thrive and build memories that last a lifetime!

Study universities' ethos

What will be the average class size? Are there any clubs or organizations that pique my interest? What have other international students posted about their on-campus housing?

Understanding the social characteristics and identifying schools that are congruent with your interests (not just academic but interests outside of academics), strengths, and traits is a process that significantly improves ones overall experience at university.

I recommend students to study the culture and history of the universities theyre applying to, not just courses available but also opportunities available outside of academics - social clubs, sororities, sporting & other activities.

I also highly recommend reaching out to current students and alumni to understand their experience (as digital natives, how to find them is the least of your worries).

With thousands of universities to choose from across the US, UK, Europe, and Canada, picking the right one may feel like finding a needle in a haystack, however, identifying what matters most in a college, asking the right questions and doing the research will certainly help you inch closer toward your best-fit destination!

(Authored by Kunal Mehra, Managing Director and CEO, Crimson Education India. Views are personal)
The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and The Open University of Kenya (OUK) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration across various domains. IGNOU, Open University of Kenya collaborate to boost learning experience of students.

According to a press release issued by IGNOU, the collaboration focuses on many areas including facilitating student and faculty mobility, incorporating cutting-edge technology for teaching and learning, capacity-building programs for OUK staff, curriculum development aligned with market needs, sharing expertise in e-learning platforms, joint research and development initiatives, and more.

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Also read: BPSC AAO Main 2022 result declared at bpsc.bih.nic.in, here's direct link

The MoU was signed in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of Kenya William Samoei Ruto by Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research, Ministry of Education, Kenya, and Prof. Nageshwar Rao, VC IGNOU.

Also read: NIFT 2024: Application process begins at www.nift.ac.in, here's direct link to apply

As part of the program, the Kenyan delegates also visited the Electronic Media Production Center (EMPC) of IGNOU and lauded the initiatives of the University.

(For more information, visit the official website)
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) does not differentiate between India and Bharat, and duty acknowledges the spirit as enshrined in our Constitution that recognises the both, the union ministry of education informed the Parliament on Wednesday. NCERT doesnt differentiate between India & Bharat: Edu ministry told Parliament

Responding to a question asked by CPI(M) member in Rajya Sabha Elamaram Kareem regarding the NCERT panels recommendations of replacing the name India with Bharat in textbooks, union minister of state for education Annpurna Devi said, Article 1 of the Constitution of India states that India, that is Bharat, shall be a Union of States." India's Constitution recognises both 'India' and 'Bharat' as the official names of the country which can be used interchangeably. The NCERT duly acknowledges this spirit as enshrined in our Constitution and does not differentiate between the two.

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She further said that the country is collectively moving away from the colonial mindset and encourages the usage of the words in Bhartiya Bhasha (Indian languages). NCERT, an autonomous body under the aegis of the Ministry of Education involved in preparation of school curriculum and textbooks, will also do its best in furthering the same, the minister said.

A high-level committee for social sciences, constituted by the NCERT to revise the school curriculum, had in October recommended replacing the name India with Bharat in textbooks. The recommendation triggered a political controversy with the opposition accusing the government of election gimmicks and suggesting 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.

However, NCERT maintained that 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, it said.
The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in its latest survey of global learning standards revealed that the mathematics and reading skills of teenagers' are in an unprecedented decline across dozens of countries and COVID school closures are only partly to be blamed. While more than half of the 81 countries surveyed saw declines, Germany, Iceland, the Netherlands, Norway and Poland saw particularly sharp drops in mathematics scores.(Shutterstock)

The Paris-based organisation said it had seen some of the steepest drops in performance since 2000 when it began its usually triennial tests of 15-year-olds reading, maths and science skills.

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Last year, in the two-hour test conducted by the organisation, 700,000 youths participated in the latest study which was closely watched by policymakers as the largest international comparison of education performance.

It was observed that compared to when the tests were last conducted in 2018, reading performance fell by 10 points on average in OECD countries, and by 15 points in mathematics, a loss equivalent to three-quarters of a year's worth of learning.

While more than half of the 81 countries surveyed saw declines, Germany, Iceland, the Netherlands, Norway and Poland saw particularly sharp drops in mathematics scores, the OECD said.

The study found that on average across the OECD, one out of four 15-year-olds tested as a low performer in maths, reading and science, which means they could not use basic algorithms or interpret simple texts.

"COVID probably played some role but I would not overrate it," OECD director of education Andreas Schleicher told a news conference.

"There are underlying structural factors and they are much more likely to be permanent features of our education systems that policymakers should really take seriously."

It was also noted that countries that provided extra teacher support during COVID school closures scored better and results were generally better in places where easy teacher access for special help was high. Poorer results tended to be associated with higher rates of mobile phone use for leisure and where schools reported teacher shortages.

According to OECD, the decline was not inevitable, pointing to Singapore, where students scored the highest in maths, reading and science, with results that suggested they were on average three to five years ahead of their OECD peers. Macau, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea also outperformed in maths and science, whereas Estonia and Canada also scored well.

In reading, Ireland, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan earned top marks and were all the more notable in Ireland and Japan because their spending per student was no higher than the OECD average.
Actor Anil Kapoor is Group Captain Rakesh Jai Singh in his next film, Fighter. On Wednesday, his co-stars from the film Deepika Padukone and Hrithik Roshan shared a fresh poster from the film that introduced Anil's character. (Also read: Anil Kapoor and Bobby Deol go shirtless in recent Instagram pic, Hrithik Roshan reacts) Fighter: Anil Kapoor is Group Captain Rakesh Jai Singh.

What's in the new poster?

The poster shows Anil in an airforce pilot's uniform and aviator sunglasses, with sunlight falling on one side of his face. Deepika captioned the post, Group Captain Rakesh Jai Singh. Call Sign: Rocky. Designation: Commanding Officer. Unit: Air Dragons. Fighter Forever."

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Fans of Anil Kapoor loved his cool new look but were still not over the Animal fever. Now Balbir Singh is Rakesh Singh for you, wrote one. Balbir Singh is here, commented another. Anil plays business tycoon Balbir Singh, dad to Ranbir Kapoor in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Animal.

About Fighter

Helmed by Siddharth Anand, Fighter also stars Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone in the lead roles. The aerial action thriller film is all set to hit the theatres on January 25, 2024.

Siddharth Anand announced the film in 2021. Taking to social media, he wrote, "This is definitely one of the most exciting moments of my life to bring together two of my favourite stars, Hrithik and Deepika, for the first time to the Indian and global audience. I am thrilled to begin the journey of MARFLIX, a production house dedicated to action film making in India. I start this journey of Marflix along with my life partner Mamta Anand. Starting MARFLIX with Hrithik is special as he is someone who has seen me even working as an AD, then as a director on two films and now I am not just his director but I'm also starting my production house with him."

The motion poster of Fighter was released on Independence Day 2023, which provided the first glimpse at the three actors, who play Indian Air Force (IAF) officers in the movie.

Other posters so far:

Recently the makers unveiled new posters of Hrithik and Deepika. Deepika shared the poster which she captioned, Squadron Leader Minal Rathore, Call Sign: Minni, Designation: Squadron Pilot, Unit: Air Dragons. Hrithik captioned his poster, "Squadron Leader Shamsher Pathania ...Call Sign: Patty...Designation: Squadron Pilot..Unit: Air Dragons..Fighter Forever ..#Fighter.

Meanwhile, Animal successfully entered the 200 crore club in India within just 5 days of its official release. On Tuesday, the film minted 34.02 crore which took the film's total collection (in Hindi language) to 283 crore India, as per trade analyst Taran Adarsh.

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Academy Award winner Susan Sarandon has faced yet another setback in her career amid the ongoing controversy surrounding her. A production company has recently chosen to sever ties with the star due to anti-Semitic rants. Susan's pro-Palestinian and anti-Jewish comments have stirred anger and criticism, leading agencies and production houses to cut their ties with her. Despite posting an apology note, it appears that the situation is not improving in her favor as she was dropped from an upcoming film. US actress Susan Sarandon poses as she arrives on May 17, 2017 for the screening of the film Ismaels Ghosts (Les Fantomes d'Ismael) during the opening ceremony of the 70th edition of the Cannes Film Festival . (AFP)

PTO Films cuts ties with Susan Sarandon over anti-Jewish remarks

In a statement given to Page Six, PTO Films, the bankrollers of Slipping Away said As a company, PTO Films would like to make it clear that Susan Sarandons views do not reflect the opinions of our organization.

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Co-founder of the production company David Barroso further explained We were considering her for a short film, but due to her recent statements, we have decided to pursue other options.

Although they gave Susan serious consideration for a part in their film, Barroso claims that formal talks with her have never taken place. On the work front, the Blue Beetle and Tammy star was set to appear in a short film titled Slipping Away by the indie production house. The official brief of the movie describes it as a thriller with a schizophrenic man who struggles with his madness and his wife's extramarital affair. Susan was set to play Dr. Sylvia Mansfield in the movie. For the unversed, During a pro-Palestinian rally in New York City on November 17, Sarandon expressed that Jews were getting a taste of what it is like to be Muslim in this country, so often subjected to violence.

Also read: Susan Sarandon apologises for antisemitic remarks at pro-Palestinian rally: A terrible mistake

Susan Sarandons controversy

Susan Sarandon was fired from the UTA agency as a result of her comments concerning the Israel-Hamas conflict. The 77-year-old actress left the agency after receiving harsh criticism for remarks she made in the wake of the October 7 Hamas attack, which gravely wounded multiple staff members. On December 1, the Academy Award winner issued an apology and explanatory note on her Instagram, reflecting on her previous actions. Susan clarified that she did not intend to use such harsh language, but was unexpectedly called on stage to speak. She acknowledged her statement as a "terrible mistake of phrasing."

The star said I deeply regret diminishing this reality and hurting people with this comment. It was my intent to show solidarity, I am sorry I failed to do so.
The Royals remain under constant scrutiny as Omid Scobie's book, The Endgame, reveals its secrets. In a family portrait released before The Diplomatic Reception at Buckingham Palace, Queen Camilla, King Charles III, Prince William, and Kate Middleton appear as a picture-perfect family, all smiles as they stand alongside each other. However, the internet couldn't help but observe the absence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in the room. Britain's Prince William and Kate, the Prince and Princess of Wales, meet Paloma Faith, right, during the Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall, in London., Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023. (Aaron Chown/Pool Photo via AP)(AP)

Queen Camilla, King Charles III, Prince William, and Kate Middleton pose together

The family photo emerged amid accusations of racism involving key family members. It was said that Prince Archie's birth skin tone worried the family and that King Charles and the Princess of Wales were the racist family members at that time." The revelation was made in Omid Scobie's book Endgame: Inside the Royal Family and the Monarchy's Battle for Survival which was instantly removed from the bookstores in Holland.

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Also read: Prince Harry's UK police protection trial kicks off, attorneys argue impact of successful attack

The dad and son stood together, with Kate Middleton beside Prince William in a pink sequin dress. Queen Camilla wore a white dress and gloves, while both the queen and Princess of Wales had brooches with a picture of the late Queen Elizabeth II on their left shoulders.

Britain's Queen Camilla, Britain's King Charles III, Britain's Prince William, Prince of Wales and Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales pose for a picture during a reception for members of the Diplomatic Corps at Buckingham Palace, in London, on December 5, 2023.( (Photo by Chris Jackson / POOL / AFP)

Given that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry stepped down from the royal family in 2020, they were undoubtedly noticeably absent. Presently, the Duke of Sussex is fighting for police protection in London. Even though he didn't show up in person for the trial, his lawyer, Shaheed Fatima, argued against the 2020 decision that took away taxpayer-funded police security for Harry when he comes to Britain.

What is diplomatic reception?

A royal family's diplomatic reception is an elegant gathering where they greet and socialize with ambassadors and other diplomats from various nations. During this time, the royals discuss shared interests, foster goodwill, and deepen their connections with foreign guests.
Paris Hilton has revealed that one of the main reasons she decided to use surrogate for her two childrens birth is because of trauma she endured as a teenager. Paris said in an interview with Romper that she still has so much PTSD from what [she] went through at Utahs Provo Canyon School for troubled youngsters. Paris Hilton arrives at the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, Calif (Photo by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

If Im in a doctors office, I get a shot, anything, I will literally have a panic attack and I cant breathe, she told the outlet. I just knew that would not be healthy for me or the baby, growing inside of someone who has such high anxiety.

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Paris revealed back in 2020 that at the school, which she attended for nearly a year, she had been physically, sexually, and emotionally abused. She alleged she had to undergo nonconsensual gynaecological examinations in which she was pinned down without her consent.

The school previously said that they do not condone or promote any form of abuse. A different company later acquired the school. The company said in a statement that they cannot comment on prior operations of student experience.

Childbirth and death are the two things that scare me more than anything

Paris had opened up about her fear of pregnancy in an earlier interview with Glamour UK. Im just so scared, I think, again, leading back to Provo of even being in a doctors office, just all of that. The shots, the IVs that they put in, she said.

When I was in The Simple Life, I had to be in a room when a woman was giving birth and that traumatised me as well. But I want a family so bad, its just the physical part of doing it. Im just so scared childbirth and death are the two things that scare me more than anything in the world, Paris added.

Paris said in the recent interview that it would have also been difficult for her to manage her hectic schedule while dealing with the side effects of pregnancy. My schedule is out of control, she said.

There never wouldve been the right time to do it because theres literally no time to do anything in my life, Paris added. The star welcomed her second child, daughter London, in November 2023. She shares London and her first child, Phoenix Barron, with her husband Carter Reum.
Masaba Gupta dons multiple hats. From developing her clothing brand House of Masaba and beauty brand LoveChild to creating and acting in her show Masaba Masaba, she's been everywhere. Her newest hat is as a voice actor in Audible Original, Marvel's Wastelanders: Black Widow. (Also Read: Interview: Kareena Kapoor assures she is not going bus pakad ke Hollywood with The Buckingham Murders) Masaba Gupta became an actor in 2020 with her Netflix India show Masaba Masaba(Instagram/@masabagupta)

In an exclusive interview, Masaba talks about her latest gig, collaborating with Kareena Kapoor for her new bridal brand campaign, and Season 3 of Masaba Masaba. Excerpts:

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Was there any advice from your mother Neena Gupta on using your voice as an actor?

Not really. I just remember my voice getting really exhausted. Because we were doing 3-4 hours of recording every day. I asked my mum what she does and she told me you have to find ways to rest your voice. Because I was working all day then recording or the other way round. She said you have to find ways of pacing that out.

Speaking of your mother, she's confessed that she initially discouraged you from being an actor because you wouldn't be accepted in mainstream Hindi cinema because of the way you look. If that's still a constraint, does voice acting eliminate it completely?

It will always be a constraint in India. I'd like to believe we've evolved. But that's because OTT happened. We got the platform to evolve. It's not like we consciously chose to evolve. I don't know. I don't want to make it look like this: she didn't get a role in Bollywood so let's go for TV; if TV doesn't work out, then try OTT; and if OTT doesn't work out either, then somewhere else.

Voice in itself is a very powerful, challenging, and I think the toughest medium. Acting is tough because you have to look a certain way. Audio is tougher because your physicality matters so much when you're using your voice. It's not like it makes you any less committed towards your craft. Maybe I will get more work in this space because I fit that easily because my Hindi is also good thankfully and I have a half decent voice. So it's another door that's opened for me perhaps.

After Black Widow, you also collaborated with Kareena Kapoor for your brand campaign Masaba Bride. How different was it creating something completely different and invested in visuals instead of audio?

Well, very different. Bridal was a new concept for us. It's the first time I'm working with an actor in such a large capacity. There's a certain ease that Kareena brings to anything she does, whether it's an audio show, or an item song, or a full-blown film, or The Buckingham Murders. There's a certain ease, but at the same time, a shock value that she brings to everything she does, including the Masaba Bride campaign. I thoroughly enjoyed both experiences. You can sense the ease, calm, and effortlessness in her voice when she plays Black Widow.

Speaking of House of Masaba, you recently featured on the Forbes cover for your bridal designs. What has changed now as far as that industry is concerned?

I think brides are becoming more I wouldn't say experimental, but a bit more thoughtful of what they're picking for their big day. Suddenly, price, jewellery, venue have become a matter of discussion. I think today, wedding has become more about the memory. Earlier, weddings were more extravagant, and about showcasing the power and wealth one comes from. Today, it's become more about, Am I feeling it on my day? Am I liking the food thats there on my wedding day?' Brides have become more intimate. More than anyone, they want to experience their wedding day. I don't want to talk about colour, embroidery and style because there's always going to be every kind of bride. There isn't going to be one type. There's a bride who likes ivory, one who likes rani pink, and one who likes bottle green. But I see them get more outspoken about it.

As you said, you've largely played yourself on screen. Are you getting more opportunities to play other characters now?

I do get the opportunities with fictional characters, nothing in the reality space. But nothing has really hit home for me. I have an extremely busy life running two brands and everything on the side. We've around 18 stores across the county now. I've been absorbing everything that's happening. So only if something really exciting comes my way will I jump on it. The one-off Black Widow or the one-off something else that comes my way will keep me going, it will keep me on my toes.

So will we see you next in Masaba Masaba Season 3?

Well, fingers crossed. I hope so. We don't know yet.

Satyadeep Mishra played your ex-husband in Season 1. Now that you're married to him IRL, and if you plan to show that in Season 3, who's going to play your new husband? Is that going to be an issue?

(Laughs) I guess. That's why Netflix seems to be up in confusion about what to do because my personal life has become a bit like Interstellar. It's gone a bit meta and they don't know how to deal with that. It's interesting but I don't know where the story will go and will take a ship of its own. And maybe we won't talk about what we've been talking about all this while. We may go on a whole new journey altogether. There are so many parallels. If you saw Season 2, we did open some new doors for fresh storylines. But yeah, how to balance my personal and professional, and my real and reel is going to be a challenge.

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At the current level of warming, the world risks triggering at least five tipping points posing threats of a magnitude never faced by humanity, new research has found, which experts warned may cause devastating domino effects for the world. The UN climate conference opens in Dubai on November 30 with nations under pressure to increase the urgency of action on global warming and wean off fossil fuels, amid intense scrutiny of oil-rich hosts UAE. (AFP)

Tipping points are a set of conditions or thresholds identified by scientists which are considered markers beyond which any changes in the climate system become self-perpetuating and can lead to abrupt and irreversible impacts for the planets ecology.

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Based on an assessment of 26 Earth system tipping points, The Global Tipping Points Report by an international team 200 scientists and coordinated by the University of Exeter, said that current global governance is inadequate for the scale of the challenge.

The report, set to be published on Wednesday as the UN Climate Conference (COP28) underway in Dubai enters the second week, further suggested coordinated action to trigger positive tipping points.

Five major tipping points are already at risk of being crossed due to warming right now and three more are threatened in the 2030s as the world exceeds 1.5C global warming, the report said. According to latest estimates, the world is around 1.15C warmer than pre-industrial levels.

It identified the five systems already at risk: The Greenland and West Antarctic Ice Sheets, warm-water coral reefs, North Atlantic subpolar gyre circulation, and permafrost regions.

Among these, the report adds that tipping points for ice sheets of Greenland and West Antarctica may already have been breached at current level of greenhouse gas emissions.

The Decadal State of the Climate 2011-2020 report by the World Meteorological Organisation on Tuesday said that there was a 75% rise in loss of Antarctic continental ice sheet between 2011-2020 compared to the decade before it (2001-2010).

Also read- From Gaza war to Paris Agreement: Key takeaways from climate summit COP28 in Dubai

The world is on a disastrous trajectory and the effects will cascade through globalised social and economic systems, and could exceed the ability of some countries to adapt, it said.

The report warned that the threats could materialise at lower levels of warming than previously thought.

Tipping points can trigger devastating domino effects, said lead author Tim Lenton, professor at Exeters Global Systems Institute. They can trigger devastating domino effects, including the loss of whole ecosystems and capacity to grow staple crops, with societal impacts including mass displacement, political instability and financial collapse, he said.

To better understand the domino effect, sample this: A collapse of the Greenland and West Antarctic ice sheets could trigger long-term global sea level rise of up to 10 meters, submerging many cities. And as tipping points multiply, societies will be overwhelmed as the natural world comes apart, the report said.

But tipping points also offer the best hope for survival, Lenton said. We need to prioritise and trigger positive tipping points in our societies and economies.

Also read: India pitches for more holistic Green Credit at COP28 summit

Laying out a blueprint for this, the report called for bold, coordinated policies across multiple sectors including energy, transport and food sectors.

Human history is full of examples of abrupt social and technological change. Learning from these examples, we must switch our focus from incremental change to transformative action  tipping the odds in our favour, Dr Steve Smith, at the University of Exeter, said.

Among key recommendation, the report said a phase out of fossil fuels and land-use emissions must happen before 2050. It also called for strengthening adaptation and loss and damage governance as it highlighted the inequality of impacts across the globe.

More importantly, it said that tipping points must be included in the Global Stocktake at the ongoing COP28 summit.

Averting this crisis  and doing so equitably  must be the core goal of COP28 and ongoing global cooperation. Good global governance can make this happen, especially by triggering positive tipping points, said Dr Manjana Milkoreit, from the University of Oslo.
Earth has established a new monthly record for heat for the sixth consecutive month, marking the hottest autumn as well, as per the calculations by the European climate agency. The European Space Agency's Copernicus Climate Change Service reported that November surpassed the previous warmest November by almost a third of a degree Celsius. . (AP)

As the year approaches its conclusion, 2023 is poised to break the record for the hottest year.

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The European Space Agency's Copernicus Climate Change Service reported that November surpassed the previous warmest November by almost a third of a degree Celsius. Early Wednesday, scientists revealed that November was 1.75 degrees Celsius warmer than pre-industrial times, tying with October and ranking just behind September as the warmest month above average.

Copernicus Deputy Director Samantha Burgess said, The last half year has truly been shocking. Scientists are running out of adjectives to describe this.

Burgess said that this year's November averaged 14.22 degrees Celsius, which was 0.85 degrees Celsius warmer than the complete average of the last 30 years. Two days in November 2023, were 2 degrees Celsius warmer than the pre-industrial times. This is something that has never happened before.

As per the calculations by the Copernicus scientists, until now, this year is 1.46 degrees Celsius warmer than the pre-industrial times, which is around a seventh of a degree warmer than the last warmest year  2016. This is extremely close to the international threshold that the world has set for climate change.

The goal set as per the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement limited global warming to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial times, with a secondary target of 2 degrees Celsius. Diplomats, activists, scientists, and others who met at the United Nations climate conference, COP28, in Dubai for nearly two weeks are still finding ways to limit the warming to those levels, however, the planet is not cooperating.

Based on the commitments and actions taken by countries globally, scientists project that Earth is heading towards a temperature increase of 2.7 to 2.9 degrees Celsius (4.9 to 5.2 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels.

Copernicus has calculated that the northern autumn is experiencing the highest temperatures ever recorded.

While Copernicus has data dating back to 1940, records from the United States government extend to 1850. Scientists, employing proxies like ice cores, tree rings, and corals, assert that the current decade is the warmest the Earth has experienced in approximately 125,000 years, predating human civilization. Furthermore, the recent months stand out as the hottest within the last decade.

Researchers identify two primary factors contributing to the six consecutive months of record-breaking heat. Firstly, human-induced climate change resulting from the combustion of coal, oil, and gas acts as a continuous escalator effect. Secondly, the natural El Nino-La Nina cycle is akin to intermittently jumping up or down on that escalator.

The current state involves a robust El Nino, a temporary warming of central Pacific regions that significantly impacts global weather patterns. This exacerbates the already elevated global temperatures attributed to climate change.

Burgess said that the continuous emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere will lead to further warming. She emphasised that this ongoing trend will result in catastrophic floods, fires, heat waves, droughts will continue.

2023 is very likely to be a cool year in the future unless we do something about our dependence on fossil fuels, she added.

 With inputs from Associated Press
Spanning 27 years, from 1992 to 2019, and set in a fictitious county nestled in the Himalayas, sees actor Huma S Qureshi turn author with her debut book Zeba: An Accidental Superhero. The actor unveiled her book on Saturday (December 2) during her session at the 12th edition of the Bangalore Literature Festival in the Karnataka capital. It is a story about a badly behaved woman, who ends up saving the world. This is a book for all misfits that fall outside societal norms, she says. Actor Huma Qureshi describes Zeba as a badly-behaved woman who ends up saving the world(Photo: Instagram/iamhumaq)

For the 37-year-old, the scariest part of writing this book was that people would know how I think. As a writer, you have nothing to hide behind. [Writing] the humour was difficult for me because there are things that are funny to me that may not be funny to others, she shares. Talking about the characters that are featured in her book, Qureshi says, Not just Zeba (the protagonist), but all the characters in the book are me. They have come from my imagination and impression of the world.
Seven labourers from Bihar died after a gigantic processing machine collapsed, trapping them under a heap of about 100 tonnes of corn, at a private food processing unit in Vijayapura, police said on Tuesday. According to police, the incident took place at around 4.30 pm on Monday.

According to police, the incident took place at around 4.30 pm on Monday. While the rescue operation went on for 17-hour, that concluded on Tuesday afternoon. Authorities, including the police, SDRF and NDRF, successfully recovered the bodies of seven workers who were trapped under maize sacks, after massive tanks collapsed due to overload.

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The victims have been identified as Kishan Kumara (22), Dalan Makhia (42), Rajesh Kumar (25), Shambhu Mukhia (26), Ramji Mukhia (29), Ram Balak (52), and Luko Jadhav (45), all from Bihar, the officers said.

Vijayapura Circle inspector Matapathi said, Around 50 labourers were working in the processing unit when the accident took place. We have recovered seven bodies and rescued four workers. A case has been registered against the food processing unit owner Kishore Jain and manager Saurabh under sections 304 A (causing death by negligence), 338 (causing grievous hurt by negligence), and 287 (negligent conduct with machinery) of the Indian Penal Code, he added.

District in-charge minister M B Patil, along with other officials, visited the spot to console the relatives of the deceased workers. Other workers, along with the kin of the deceased workers, demanded justice and fair compensation for the victims, recalling a past incident where no compensation was provided for two such deaths. Workers sought a compensation of 10 lakh for the families of the deceased, threatening not to permit the removal of the bodies until their demands were met.

Patil, who tried to pacify the workers, assured a compensation of 2 lakh by the state government to family of each of the victim, and 50,000 to those injured. He said, The unit owner Kishore Jain has promised to provide 5 lakh each to the family of the deceased workers and 2 lakh to those injured. The bodies of the workers will be airlifted to Bihar, he said, adding that autopsies were conducted at a district government hospital before handing over the bodies to the relatives.
Indias airlines will grow their fleet capacity by nearly 25% during the next 12 months, which will help feed rising passenger numbers and fill the void created by Go Firsts grounding, data sourced from various airlines showed on Tuesday. Among airlines, Air India will add 92 aircraft during the year, followed by IndiGo at 35. Akasa Air will add 18 aircraft during the period. (Representative Image)

Airlines will add about 150 aircraft during the next 12 months, which will be the highest fleet addition in recent times. The previous highest was 72 aircraft added in FY20. According to the data available, Indian airlines have around 600 operational aircraft, excluding over 150 planes grounded for several reasons, including engine issues, and the Go First fleet. Among airlines, Air India will add 92 aircraft during the year, followed by IndiGo at 35. Akasa Air will add 18 aircraft during the period.

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From October 2023 to October next year, Air India group will add 92 aircraft, of which 42 will be by Air India alone and the rest will be by its subsidiary AI Express, Campbell Wilson, chairman and managing director (MD) of Air India, said in an interview. Air India currently has an operational fleet size of 120 aircraft.

Officials from the countrys largest airline IndiGo, which currently has 334 planes in its fleet, have maintained that it aims to add one aircraft every week. IndiGo aims to add one aircraft every week in 2024, starting January, however, since some leased aircraft will be returned, the net addition will be around 35 next year, an airline official said.

Similarly, Indias newest airline, Akasa, got the delivery of its 20th aircraft in August this year. Airline officials said that the company is set to get two aircraft deliveries this month.

Asked about the number of aircraft it plans to induct next year, an airline official said, The airline will induct 18 aircraft to its fleet from January to December next year.

Aviation consultancy firm CAPA India recently said Indian carriers have at least 150 aircraft that are grounded, which will cross 200 by the end of March 2024.

A 25% addition in fleet will help recover losses and also the decline in capacity due to the grounding of Go First from May this year and will be in sync with the double-digit passenger growth being registered by the aviation industry. However, analysts say that the grounding of planes, mainly of IndiGo, due to engine issues will be a major challenge.

Pricing and fares have been a point of concern for travellers. Airfares are affected by many factors, most important being the increase in demand on certain routes and a rise in cost of operations. Despite high fares, domestic traffic hit a record of 459,526 passengers carried on November 20.

However, they said that the net addition of aircraft in the calendar year will be around 35,

thereby qualifying for international flight operations. The airline is expected to commence its international operations soon

Analysts say that the addition is not enough and fares will continue to remain high.

Some experts remain sceptical about the capacity situation.

Mark Martin, head of Martin Consultancy, said, We need at least 300 aircraft so that the industry is able to function without any hiccups. The actual grounding of aircraft across the airlines currently stands at 250 and not the numbers that are being claimed by the airlines. Adding 150 aircraft will not at all cater to the growing passenger numbers. Airfares too will severely go up, ultimately causing trouble for passengers.

The travel industry, however, feels that the induction will fuel demand. The growth in the increasing passenger demand has led to this and it also drives the decision to induct more aircraft and open many more routes. There has been a significant surge in passenger demand and as the president of TAAI (Travel Agents Association of India), we are hopeful that this trend of increased demand will continue in the latter part of the year as well, Jyoti Mayal, president of TAAI, said.
New Delhi: Union minister Amit Shah on Wednesday blamed former prime minister (late) Jawaharlal Nehru for the security challenges Jammu and Kashmir has been facing for several decades, saying the Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir wouldn't have come into existence had the former not made 'two blunders'. He was speaking in the Lok Sabha on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023. Union home minister Amit Shah speaks in the Lok Sabha during the Winter Session of Parliament.(ANI)

"I stand in the House and say responsibly that Kashmir suffered for several years because of the two blunders during the tenure of PM Jawaharlal Nehru. The biggest mistake was that when our forces were winning, a cease fire was announced and PoK came into existence. Had the ceasefire been delayed by three days, PoK would have been a part of India," Shah said, amid loud protest from the opposition members of parliament.

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He said the second blunder was involving the United Nations in the Kashmir issue.

"Second was the blunder to take our issue to the UN (United Nations)," he added.

Also read: Kashmiri Pandits wouldn't have left if': Amit Shah defends J&K bills in LS

He also blamed the Congress for the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits. He claimed the incident could have been averted had there not been vote bank politics.

The Lok Sabha today passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to nominate two members from the Kashmiri migrant community and one representing the displaced persons from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to the legislative assembly. The second bill also passed.

Shah said the two bills were aimed at giving justice to those who had been deprived of rights over the past 70 years.

BJP leader Giriraj Singh later seconded Amit Shah.

"Amit Shah has rightly said that we lost PoK because of Jawaharlal Nehru. He called (the forces) back and took the Kashmir issue to the UN," he said.

Jawaharlal Nehru was the first prime minister of India. He was the closest associate of Mahatma Gandhi and a freedom struggle leader.

He was the father of former PM Indira Gandhi, the late grandmother of Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

With inputs from PTI, ANI
In a rebuff to Trinamool Congress MP Sougata Roy, Union home minister Amit Shah said the progress made in Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370 would be better understood by him when the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government will be in power in West Bengal. Shah was responding to the questions raised in connection with the revocation of statehood of Jammu and Kashmir as well as the amendment Bills introduced in the Lok Sabha on reorganisation and reservation in the Union Territory. Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks in the Lok Sabha(PTI)

Amit Shah was speaking on the completion of developmental projects in the region such as the construction of two AIIMS, IIT and IIM following the revocation of Article 370 and the imposition of President's Rule. He was reading out facts when Opposition leaders, including the TMC MP, raised to object his claims.

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You could've made all this (development) only by imposing President's Rule. There was no need for the removal of Article 370 for this, Roy said.

Responding to the TMC MP, Shah said there was a reduction in cases of terrorism which resulted in the normalcy of the situation in the region after the Article was removed. This eventually led to all the development, he added. You won't understand. When our (BJP) government will come to power in West Bengal and the situation in the state will improve and development will take place, then you will understand."

The two Bills, which was been passed in the Lok Sabha, seek to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019, and reserve two seats for Kashmiri migrants and one seat for displaced people from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in the Union territorys legislative assembly. These members will be nominated by the L-G, according to the provisions of the Bill.
Scientists from India and six other countries have come up with an inventory of 241 plants, which were introduced in south Asian countries and have over the years become Invasive Alien Species (IAS). India tops the list with 185 such plant species. Lantana camara, which is a native of south and central America and was introduced by the British in this part of the world, is now invasive in all the seven countries in South Asia. (Shutterstock Photo)

This is the first such attempt to come up with an integrated inventory of invasive alien flora of South Asia. European countries have already come up with such a database. Of late, an integrated alien species inventory for the Central American region comprising seven countries has also been assembled, said Anzar A Khuroo, associate professor of Botany at University of Kashmir and a senior author of the team.

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IAS are animals and plants that are introduced into places outside their natural range, negatively impacting native biodiversity, ecosystem services or human well-being. They are one of the biggest threats to biodiversity and are also a global threat to food security.

While India, with its largest land area in the group of seven countries, tops the list with 185 invasive alien plants listed by the team, it is closely followed by Bhutan with 53 such plants, Sri Lanka with 45 and Bangladesh with 39. Maldives has the lowest invasive plants with just 15 species. Nepal has 30 and Pakistan has 29 such invasive alien plant species.

The findings have been published in peer-reviewed journal Biological Invasions in its September 2023 issue. Researchers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Australia, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka took part in the study. From India, researchers from University of Kashmir, National Remote Sensing Centre and Kerala Forest Research Institute were present as members.

It was found that Southern America was the major contributor, both at the country level and across the region, thereby indicating that the tropical climate matching aids in the establishment and spread of alien species.

The highest number of invasive plants were introduced in south Asia from Southern America (142), followed by Northern America (66), Africa (42) and Europe. The results also show that around 40% of the plants were introduced by chance through the escape pathway. Around 24% came as stowaway, such as in ballast water of ships, and around 21% were released.

The findings have immense implications. Now that we know southern America was the major contributor of IAS, both at country level and across the region, thereby indicating that the tropical climate matching aids in the establishment and spread of alien species, we need to be extra cautious while dealing with plants coming from there more than those coming from Europe, he added.

The scientists found that one plant  Lantana camara  which is a native of south and central America and was introduced by the British in this part, is now invasive in all the seven countries in South Asia. Likewise, three species  Parthenium hysterophorus, Pontederia crassipes and Leucaena leucocephala  were found to have become invasive in six countries. Two other species  Ageratum conyzoides and Sphagneticola trilobata  were distributed in at least five countries. At least 150 plant species of the 241 identified were still restricted to a single country.

IAS are compounded by climate change. Climate change facilitates the spread and establishment of many alien species and creates new opportunities for them to become invasive.

They can reduce the resilience of natural habitats, agricultural systems and urban areas to climate change. Conversely, climate change reduces the resilience of habitats to biological invasions, security and livelihoods.

An earlier research finding by a separate team of international scientists had found that IAS have cost the Indian economy between at least 8.3 trillion to 11.9 trillion (US$ 127.3 billion to 182.6 billion) over 19602020, and these costs have increased with time. This finding was published in a Springer journal in April 2022.

Out of the 241 species listed, at least 236 were angiopsperms (flowering plants). There were three gymnosperms (seed producing plants like pine tree) and two pteridophytes.

The plant family, which accounts for the highest number of invasive species, in the region is Asteraceae. Plants like sunflower, marigold, dahlia, dandelion and lettuce come from this family. At least 156 plants from this family are in the invasive list. It is followed by families like Fabaceae (36) and Solanaceae (18). The genera Acacia has the highest invasive species.

The vilayti kikar (Prosopis juliflora) which is found in Delhi belongs to the family Fabaceae. The genera, which has the highest invasive plant species, is Acacia.

The invasive plants of south Asia consist of 156 perennials (65%), 82 annuals (34%) and 3 biennials (1%). In terms of growth form, most of the invasive species were herbs (146), followed by shrubs (38), trees (30), climbers (20), subshrubs (4) and vines (3).

This study would foster further research in those areas of south Asian countries where data of invasive plants and animals are deficient. The Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) has recently published a report enlisting more than 37,000 alien species which have been introduced to regions and biomes around the world as a result of various human activities. But there too there was a gap in data fed from south Asia and Africa, said said Ruquia Gulzar, lead author of the study from University of Kashmir.

Target 6 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, agreed at the 15th meeting of the Conference of Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, also speaks of reducing the impacts of IAS on biodiversity and ecosystem by at least 50 percent, by 2030.
A crucial meeting of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will take place on Thursday, amid suspense on the new chief ministers for Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan.



The high-level BJP meeting will be held days after the saffron party won assembly election in the three states of Hindi heartland on December 3. The BJP ousted Congress from power in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, while it ducked anti-incumbency to retain power in Madhya Pradesh.



These three states together send 65 MPs to the Lok Sabha, and the poll win is a booster to the BJP in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections scheduled next year.



Earlier in the day, 10 BJP MPs including two Union ministers who won assembly elections, resigned from the Lok Sabha. These 10 MPs tendered their resignations after calling on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief JP Nadda. Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets during the BJP's victory programme after the party won Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh assembly elections on December 3.(ANI)

Madhya Pradesh

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In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP swept the elections by winning 163 out of 230 seats. Amid speculations about the next chief minister, incumbent CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday said he was never a CM contender. Neither was I the CM contender earlier nor now. I am just a party worker and whatever post or duty the party will give I will fulfil that, he said.



The names of key BJP leaders including Union ministers Jyotiraditya Scindia, Narendra Singh Tomar and Prahlad Singh Patel as well as party's national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya are doing rounds for the top post.

Rajasthan



The BJP ousted the Congress from power in Rajasthan, winning 115 out of 199 seats that went to polls. Following the victory, hectic parleys are being held in Jaipur and Delhi to decide the new chief minister.



Some of the prominent faces of the party, including two-time CM Vasundhara Raje; Diya Kumari, who secured victory from the Vidhyadhar Nagar constituency; and Mahant Balak Nath, who won from the Tijara constituency; and Rajyavarardhan Singh Rathore, who won from the Jhotwara constituency, are among the top contenders.

Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh, that witnessed a Congress sweep five years ago, witnessed a change of guard in this election. The BJP returned to power by winning 54 out of 90 seats, reducing the grand old party to 35.

Several names including Raman Singh, Arun Sao, OP Chaudhary and Gomti Sai among others are doing rounds for the top job.
Newly elected BJP MLA Diya Kumari on Wednesday called for a thorough investigation into explosive claims made by Lokesh Sharma, Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the outgoing Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot. Outgoing Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot and BJP MLA Diya Kumari.(PTI)

Sharma on Tuesday claimed that the Congress government in the state had been monitoring the movements of senior party leader Sachin Pilot, including tapping his phone during a critical political crisis in 2020.

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"This is a huge allegation. If the OSD has said that, then definitely there must be some truth. It should be investigated... If he has done that, it is illegal," said Diya Kumari, one of the contenders for the chief ministerial post, in response to the startling revelation.

Sharma, speaking to ANI, claimed, "During the political crisis in Rajasthan, when Sachin Pilot had gone to Manesar with 18 MLAs, it is natural that the state government tracks the movement in such cases. So, the state government was keeping track of Sachin Pilot and the people he was meeting. Sachin Pilot was being monitored on where he was going, and who he was talking to on the phone so that corrective measures could be taken."

He further claimed that the monitoring was carried out on the instructions of Ashok Gehlot to safeguard the Congress government in the state. "It was because of the monitoring that we could bring some people back. He was also being chased, and all his movements were tracked. I believe Sachin Pilot was aware of this and that he is being monitored," Sharma added.

Sharma, who was denied a ticket to contest the Rajasthan assembly polls and has been criticising Gehlot for the party's defeat in the elections.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi hit out at Sharma for not speaking up earlier saying he is not a well-wisher.

Lokesh Sharma was with Ashok Gehlot for 5 years. He took part in all the meetings and events. Is he seeing all the deficiencies only after the defeat? Couldn't he speak up earlier? This shows that he is not a well-wisher, Chaturvedi said as she for introspection within the Congress party.

But yes, there are a few issues that need to be discussed within the Congress party. The party should introspect that the two senior leaders were in a dispute earlier too - so how it should be resolved.
There should only be one flag, one prime minister and one Constitution in India and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had made this possible, Union home minister Amit Shah said on Tuesday, hailing the Centres decision to scrap Jammu & Kashmirs special status four years ago. Union home minister Amit Shah speaks in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday. (ANI)

Speaking briefly in the Lok Sabha during a debate on two bills on reservation in the Union territory, Shah also said that the concept of one flag, one PM and one Constitution  first coined by Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee  was not just a political slogan.

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He was responding to comments by Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Saugata Ray.

It is a very objectionable to say one flag, one PM and one Constitution is a political statement. How can there be two PMs in one country? How can there be two Constitutions in one country? How can one country have two flags? Whoever had said so (earlier), did a wrong thing. Narendra Modi ji has done the work of rectifying it, Shah said in the Lower House.

It doesnt matter whether you agree or disagree. The whole country wanted this and this is not an election sloganWe have been saying since 1950 that in this country, there should be one symbol, one Constitution and one PM, and we have implemented it as well.

The comments came amid a debate on two bills  the Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and Jammu & Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023  that were taken up for consideration and passing on Tuesday. The bills were introduced in Parliament on July 26 but were not taken up for discussion.

During the debate, Ray said that BJPs move to effectively abrogate Article 370 in 2019 was a political statement.

They abrogated Article 370 just to fulfil the BJP promise: Ek Pradhan, Ek Nishan, Ek Vidhan (one PM, one flag and one Constitution). This was the slogan at the time of Syama Prasad (Mookerjee), this is not for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, as this was a political statement and was his slogan, Ray said.

The TMC leader added urgent attention should be given to holding elections in Jammu and Kashmir, not making any other changes, referring to the two bills.

The J&K reservation bill seeks to provide reservation in jobs and admission in professional institutions to scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and other socially and educationally backward classes. The J&K reorganisation bill provides for the reorganisation of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir into the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir (with an elected legislature) and Ladakh (without an elected legislature). The bill seeks to increase total number of seats to 90 from 83 in J&K assembly  a number fixed by the delimitation commission earlier this year. It also reserves seven seats for scheduled castes and nine for scheduled tribes.

During the debate, a number of Opposition leaders pushed for a time frame to hold elections in the Union territory.

Congress leader Manish Tewari and the Nationalist Congress Partys Supriya Sule were among those asked the Centre when the elections will be held and when statehood will be restored in the Union territory.

Former J&K chief minister Farooq Abdullah hit back at Union minister of state Jitendra Singhs remark that militancy in the region was fuelled by vested interests of political parties that had previously ruled India and the province.

Our neighbour [Pakistan] has not accepted the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to India. Secondly, the the National Congress gave the biggest sacrifice. Our leaders and ministers were killed for holding the flag of India high. We have never denied that we are part of this nation, and we will remain part of this nation. But do justice to us. Do not point fingers to people who have suffered for this nation and continue to suffer for this nation, said Abdullah.

Union minister Jitendra Singh said whenever the EC announces it (election in Jammu and Kashmir), we are ready.

Information and broadcasting minister Anurag Thakur told the Lok Sabha that Modi did what the Congress couldnt achieve and the shortcomings in Jawaharlal Nehrus policy was rectified by Modi.

Ladakhs BJP MP Jamyang Tsering Namgyal countered the Oppositions demand for immediate elections in the Union Territory. I went to South Kashmir, in areas that were hotbeds of terrorism. Local people told me they are in no hurry for election and they want peace and security. Shooting of guns has been replaced by film shootings. Shops are now open till 11pm.

Hasnain Masoodi of the National Conference questioned why the government was treating the North-East and J&K differently. I cant travel to the Northeast without an inner line permit. The Assam CM cant buy land in Bodoland. Then, why allow people to buy land in J&K? Why do you want to turn J&K into a lab? While you are strengthening NE, you are weakening J&K, he said.
There is no backward class chief minister left in the Congress after the defeat of Ashok Gehlot and Bhupesh Baghel in the state elections of Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, respectively, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) member of Parliament (MP) Nishikant Dubey said in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday. BJP MP Nishikant Dubey. (File)

Dubey argued that the Congress could not claim to support the backward classes given how former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi opposed the Mandal Commission recommendation to introduce quotas in 1990 and the Congress only OBC president, Sitaram Kesri, was removed eight years later.

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They (Congress) tell lies and give long speeches, saying that there should be caste-based reservation and that they make them [persons belonging to backward classes] chief ministers. Today Bhupesh Baghelji has been removed. Ashok Gehlotji has been removed. The chief minister that they have now is Revanth Reddy (who will take oath as Telangana CM on Thursday). Is he backward? The chief minister that is remaining, Sukhu (Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu of HImachal Pradesh), is he backward? asked Dubey, during a debate on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill.

To be sure, Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah is an OBC chief minister. Dubeys attack was a counter to Rahul Gandhis speech in Parliament in the last session where he said that it was the Congress which had three backward chief ministers out of four, while the BJP had only one out of 10.

The Bill seeks to provide reservations for scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and other socially and educationally backward classes in jobs and professional institutions in Jammu and Kashmir.

The discussion on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, which began on Tuesday, has sparked heated debates on the abrogation of Article 370 and the fact that though the Bill will increase the number of seats in J&Ks legislative assembly, elections to it have not been held since 2014.
New Delhi: The Congress on Wednesday described as "erroneous" union minister Amit Shah's remark that it was due to former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru's blunder that Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) came into existence. Responding to Shah's claim that Nehru decided to announce a ceasefire when the Indian army was winning, the Congress said the two armies had struck a stalemate, necessitating the ceasefire. Union home minister Amit Shah speaks in the Lok Sabha during the Winter Session of Parliament. (ANI)

The Congress also claimed that the decision to cease fire had been taken based on the advice of the then army chief.

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"I do not know what is the source of the home minister's information but historically speaking, the then PM of India was given considered military advice by the then Commander in Chief of the Indian army General Roy Bucher and the advice was that the war with Pakistan had ground to a stalemate and therefore a ceasefire was imperative. The decision taken by the then Nehru Cabinet and he didn't take it alone, it was a Cabinet decision," said Congress leader Manish Tewari.

Also read: Amit Shah reminds Congress of Nehru's '2 PoK blunders', says biggest was'

Congress leader Pramod Tiwari said India would have lost Srinagar but for the intelligence shown by Nehru.

"It has become a habit of BJP to abuse Jawaharlal Nehru and put across wrong facts...You can say things today since Jawaharlal Nehru is not here to answer. If Jawaharlal Nehru had not used his intelligence and made efforts, we would not have Srinagar with us," he said.

The Congress party's INDIA ally, Farooq Abdullah claimed India would have lost Poonch and Rajaouri.

"At that time, the army was diverted to save Poonch and Rajouri. If it had not been done, Poonch and Rajouri would have also gone to Pakistan...There was no other way than this, Lord Mountbatten and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had also suggested that this should go to the United Nations," he said.

Also read: Kashmiri Pandits wouldn't have left if': Amit Shah defends J&K bills in LS

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedu said the BJP keeps cursing Nehru.

"BJP is talking about 75 years old things... You have come to create history but are cursing others. You are cursing Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. And when you got a chance to create history by removing 370, what promise did you make to the people of Kashmir? Terrorist attacks will end. Terrorism will end, Kashmiri Pandits will return to their homes and elections will be held as soon as possible. Neither elections were held nor Kashmiri Pandit brothers and sisters are feeling safe...and the terrorist attacks have still not stopped," she said.

Shah, speaking in the Lok Sabha, attributed the problems Kashmir has been facing for over the past 70 years to Nehru's "two blunders".

I stand in the House and say responsibly that Kashmir suffered for several years because of the two blunders during the tenure of PM Jawaharlal Nehru. The biggest mistake was that when our forces were winning, a cease fire was announced and PoK came into existence. Had the ceasefire been delayed by three days, PoK would have been a part of India. Second was the blunder to take our issue to the UN (United Nations), he said.
Cyclone Michaung swept inland on Tuesday, striking the Andhra Pradesh coast, bringing with it torrential rainfall, howling winds, and leaving behind a trail of destruction across the south-eastern Indian coast and leading to the deaths of at least 18 people over the past two days. Vehicles on a flooded road in Chennai on Tuesday. (PTI)

Michaung made landfall as a severe cyclonic storm near Bapatla in Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday afternoon, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said, adding that it was moving northwards at a speed of 11kmph.

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Winds gusting at 110kmph tore through coastal villages and cities in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu through much of Tuesday, uprooting trees, snapping power and phone lines, and causing widespread damage to standing crops. By the evening, the system had weakened into a cyclonic storm, and it had further reduced to a deep depression by late Tuesday night, meaning wind speeds were in the 55-85kph range.

A day earlier, as Michaung barrelled towards the Indian coast, it brought extensive rain and submerged much of Chennai, damaging infrastructure and leaving at least 17 people dead on Monday and Tuesday.

On Tuesday, however, bulk of the cyclones onslaught was centered in Andhra Pradesh, with several districts in the state receiving extremely heavy rainfall through the day. IMD officials warned of heavy rains across the coastal and Rayalaseema regions through much of Wednesday as well.

Other nearby states such as Telangana, Odisha and Chhattisgarh also saw light to moderate rainfall through Monday and Tuesday, according to the IMD cyclone bulletin.

In Andhra Pradesh, officials said that around 9,500 people were shifted to 211 relief camps set up at schools and government office buildings in coastal districts. A 35-year-old police officer was killed in the states Kadapa district when an uprooted tree fell on him as he was travelling on a motorcycle.

Of the total people evacuated, 1,350 people were moved in Bapatla district alone. The state government deployed 50 special teams in the district to take up cyclone relief measures. Bapatla district collector P Ranjit Bhasha instructed officials to visit 111 villages where the impact of the cyclone was very severe.

People in nearly all coastal regions, including Repalle, Vemuru, Bapatla, and Nizampatnam, have been instructed by the local administration not to venture out. The sea was rough nearly throughout the Andhra coast, with some areas reporting waves that were more than two metres high. There were reports of extensive damage to crops in Tirupati, Nellore, Kadapa, Prakasam, Bapatla, Krishna, NTR, and Konaseema districts. Besides paddy, horticulture crops like bananas suffered damage.

Andhra chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy held a review meeting and directed the officials to ensure that there was no loss of life and also to minimise damage to properties.

Meanwhile, the South Central Railway has announced cancellation of 305 trains in the coastal Andhra region between December 2 and 8 and diversion of 11 trains to other routes. The air traffic has been closed at the Visakhapatnam airport due to heavy rains. A day earlier, heavy rains caused flooding at Chennai airports runway, leading to the airport being shut.

Tamil Nadu, however, received some respite as the onslaught of rain in the state weakened.

In Chennai, which was battered by heavy rains on Monday leaving at least 12 people dead, city residents picked up the pieces on Tuesday. Some areas returned to normalcy even as reports of people still being marooned across the city poured in. Eleven people who sustained injuries in rain-related incidents, were receiving treatment at various hospitals in the city, officials said.

After close to 300mm of rain in Chennai a day earlier, people finally woke up to dry weather on Tuesday, allowing officials to focus on rescue and relief operations.

Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin told reporters that relief measures were being undertaken on a war footing. Stalin said that across the nine affected districts, including Chennai, a total of 61,666 relief camps were established.

The Chennai Corporation has brought in 5,000 workers from other districts for flood mitigation works in the city. These workers utilised farm tractors and fishing boats in flooded areas such as Periamet and other parts of north Chennai, which were the worst affected, for rescue operations and distributing relief materials.

Power supply had been restored across the city in most areas, barring a few such as suburban Tambaram, Ashok Nagar, Kattupakkam, and Perungudi. Mukesh Chordia, a resident of Ashok Nagar, said although water had receded from the main roads in the area, power supply had not been restored. Stalin said the power situation was being restored in phases. We have been able to restore power in 75% of the city, officials said.

Inflatable boats were deployed to rescue residents from low lying areas and high rise apartments, officials said. There is five-feet of water outside my home and it hasnt reduced an inch since yesterday, said a resident K Raju in Thiru Vi Ka Nagar.
The Tamil Nadu government has ordered the closure of schools and colleges in Chennai, Chengalpattu, Thiruvallur, and Kanchipuram on Thursday due to continued flooding caused by Cyclone Michaung-triggered heavy rainfall. Chennai particularly faces severe inundation, prompting the deployment of rescue teams to evacuate affected residents. A drone visual shows an area that is flooded after the landfall of Cyclone Michaung, in Chennai, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023. (PTI)

Arumbakkam in Chennai remained submerged following the relentless downpour, with reports of six deaths on Wednesday. Efforts by Chennai Police and the Corporation are underway to conduct rescue operations and provide aid.

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The torrential rains triggered by the cyclone have resulted in flooding across localities like Velachery and Tambaram. Residents, seen leaving their homes amid the waterlogged areas on Wednesday, sought assistance, urging for more boats to transport people to safer zones away from the stagnant water.

Top updates here:

-Due to the severe impact of cyclone-induced rains, the half-yearly exams for students in certain districts of Tamil Nadu have been postponed. However, in other districts, the exams will proceed as scheduled from Thursday. Schools in the affected areas have been given the authority to conduct exams based on recovery levels, providing separate question papers.

-Defence minister Rajnath Singh will visit Tamil Nadu on Thursday to evaluate the flood situation and meet chief minister M K Stalin. He will conduct an aerial survey of the affected regions as a representative of the central government to assess the damage caused by the recent floods caused by the cyclone, news agency PTI reported quoting sources.

-Chennai residents are facing issues with stagnant water and power outages in multiple areas two days after Cyclone Michaung hit the region. The state government has attributed some power cuts to submerged cables as a safety precaution and is working to restore normalcy.

-The chief minister on Wednesday visited affected areas, distributed relief materials, and inspected drainage efforts. He has also sought interim flood relief of 5,060 crore from the central government to address the situation.

-Chennai Police have reported six rain-related deaths on Wednesday and numerous rescues by personnel in various parts of the city.

-Subways remain closed due to waterlogging, but airport operations have not been disrupted. The Southern Railway has cancelled and diverted some train services, but partially resumed suburban services with reduced frequency on select routes.

-The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that Cyclone Michaung has weakened and is not expected to cause any further disastrous impact.

(With inputs from agencies)
A day after the cyclone Michaung wreaked havoc in Chennai, chief minister and DMK president MK Stalin on Tuesday compared the situation with that of the devastating floods in 2015 when the opposition AIADMK was in power. Chief minister and DMK president MK Stalin on Tuesday compared the rain situation in the state with that of the devastating floods in 2015 when the opposition AIADMK was in power. (HT Photo)

The intensity of the rains are historically unseen, Stalin said at a press conference in the Greater Chennai Corporation, while making the comparison.

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Meenambakkam and Perungudi stations recorded 430 mm and Perungudi 440 mmm rainfall in 36 hours, he said, adding that such intensity has not been seen in 47 years. The weathermen are yet to release data on the records the rainfall has broken.

Because of the work we have done (in the last 2 years) despite the unprecedented rains, we have been able to reduce the impact of it compared to previous years, Stalin said. I am sure you will accept that.

To compare, Stalin said that during the devastating 2015 floods under the AIADMK regime led by J Jayalalithaa, Nungambakkam recorded 294 mm rainfall. It is unclear on which day the rainfall was recorded. In 2015, 199 people died. Despite more rains now, seven people have died (on Monday) but even that should not have happenedAt that time, they (AIADMK) started rescue operations only four days later but we started it yesterday.

After the DMK formed the government in May 2021, the civic body had laid an additional 876.19 km of stormwater drains in Chennai.

Stormwater drains were well constructed, Stalin said. But the water could not recede via Adyar and Cooum rivers to reach the sea because of the high tides brought by the cyclone.

In 2015, they released water from the Chembarambakkam lake to Adyar without any planning and warning, the chief minister said. Several reports including that of the Comproller and Auditor General (CAG) had blamed the indisceimage discharge from Chembarambakkam for the massive flooding where people were marooned for at least a week in December 2015. But because of prior planning we strategically released water from Chembarambakkam. And it is the cyclones rain that flooded the city this time, said Stalin.

AIADMK general secretary and leader of opposition Edappadi Palaniswami had four days ago criticised that the DMK spent 4000 crore for flood mitigation work and yet Chennai was submerged.

Only because we undertook work for 4000 crore, Chennai was able to withstand such intense rains which we have not experienced for 47 years, Stalin said. They (AIADMK) didnt do anything during their regime. But DMK has done the work.

Stalin will also be seeing 5000 crore as relief funds from the Centre.

On Tuesday, Palaniswami distributed relief to flood affected people in Chennai.

The first heavy spell handled by the DMK government was in November 2021 and based on those numbers officials planned to mitigate the present scenario, Stalin said.

The officials also strategised based on the recommendations given in the final report of the Thiruppugazh Committee for the Chennai Flood Disaster Mitigation and Management submitted in May.
Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) parliamentarian DNV Senthil Kumars controversial reference to Hindi heartland states on Tuesday evoked a sharp response from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which accused the regional party of playing with the sentiments of the country, even as the lawmaker later apologised and withdrew his remark. HT Image

Kumars statement also drew a pointed rebuke from Tamil Nadu chief minister and DMK chief MK Stalin. The Congress, which is an ally of the DMK in Tamil Nadu, also criticised the unfortunate choice of words.

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In the Lower House, Kumar made the comment while speaking on the BJPs victories in three out of five states  mainly the three Hindi heartland states of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan  which went to the polls recently.

Kumar said the BJP can win elections only there and not in south India, and passed the controversial remark on the Hindi heartland states.

The power of BJP in winning elections mainly lies in the Hindi heartland states. You cannot come to South India! You can see what happened in the election results in all the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka, he said.

While the contentious comment on the Hindi heartland states was later expunged by the House, it triggered a row across party lines.

I think that is a disrespect of the Sanatani tradition. The DMK will soon get to know the benefits of gaumutra. They are very well aware that this will not be tolerated by the people of the country. Anyone who tries to play with the sentiments of the country will get a befitting reply from the public, Union minister Meenakshi Lekhi said.

Congress Lok Sabha MP Karti Chidambaram also condemned the very unfortunate choice of words. Unparliamentary. Senthil Kumar must forthwith apologize and withdraw his comments, he wrote on X.

Facing flak from several quarters, Kumar later withdrew his remark. Commenting on the results of the five recent state assembly elections, I have used a word in an inappropriate way. Not using that term with any intent, I apologise for sending the wrong meaning across, he said in a post on X.

The DMK leader, however, was pulled up by his own party. Senior DMK leader and organising secretary RS Bharathi said the MP had used a word that gave a wrong meaning.

Upon knowing this, party president and chief minister Stalin strongly rebuked Senthil Kumar, Bharathi said in a statement.
Telangana Congress chief Revanth Reddy is set to become the next chief minister of the southern state, as announced by the party on Tuesday. Congress general secretary KC Venugopal, in a press briefing, disclosed that the swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for December 7. Recognized for leading the party to a decisive triumph in the assembly elections, Reddy emerged as the face of Congress' successful campaign in Telangana. Following the announcement, Reddy conveyed his appreciation to Sonia Gandhi, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and other prominent party leaders. Vasundhara Raje (PTI)

In Mizoram, Zoram Peoples Movement (ZPM) President Lalduhoma is poised to become the next chief minister of Mizoram following his party's resounding victory in the recent state assembly elections. The ZPM, in the opposition, secured 27 seats out of 40, overshadowing the ruling Mizo National Front (MNF) which claimed 10 seats, relegating them to a distant second. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress each secured 2 seats in the assembly.

However, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is confronted with the crucial task of selecting potential chief ministerial candidates to lead new cabinets for the upcoming five years. In Rajasthan, BJP faces a challenging decision among Vasundhara Raje, Diya Kumari, and Baba Balaknath, or it might introduce an unexpected candidate. In Chhattisgarh, veteran leader Raman Singh is considered a strong contender for the chief ministerial role. Similarly, four-time Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, is likely to make a return for his fifth term.
Durg, Dec 6 (PTI) The father of a man named as an accused in the Mahadev betting app scam has been found dead under suspicious conditions at a village in Chhattisgarh's Durg district, a senior police official said. The deceased was the father of Asim Das, an alleged cash courier in the case arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). (Representative Image)

The body of Sushil Das (62), who was missing since the last two days, was found in a well at Achhoti village under Anda police station limits on Tuesday afternoon and prima facie it looks like a case of suicide, Durg Senior Superintendent of Police Ram Gopal Garg said.

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The deceased was the father of Asim Das, an alleged cash courier in the case arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

Sushil Das, who worked as a security guard in a private company, was missing since Sunday evening, Garg added.

Prima facie, it seems to be a case of suicide, but the exact reason behind the death was yet to be ascertained, the official said.

The body was sent for post-mortem examination and further investigation was underway, he added. Asim Das and another accused, constable Bhim Singh Yadav, were arrested by the ED on November 3.

The ED claimed that a forensic analysis and a statement made by cash courier Das had led to startling allegations that Mahadev betting app promoters have paid about 508 crore to outgoing Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel so far, and that these are subject matter of investigation.

Baghel had stoutly denied the allegations and accused the BJP of misusing the ED. Asim Das was arrested by the central agency in Raipur after it claimed to have recovered 5.39 crore in cash from him.

He was allegedly sent by the app promoters from the UAE especially, to deliver a large amount of cash for electioneering expenses of the ruling Congress Party, according to the ED.

Asim Das has admitted that the seized funds were arranged by the Mahadev app promoters to be delivered to one politician 'Baghel' for upcoming election expenses in the state of Chhattisgarh, the agency had said in a statement issued before the two-phase polling on November 7 and 17.

On November 25, Das had submitted before a special PMLA court that he had been framed as part of a conspiracy and he had never delivered cash to politicians.
Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday dismissed the reports of his refusal to join the hurriedly called December 6 meeting of Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) leaders, saying he was down with a fever and would definitely attend the next meeting. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. (Photo by Santosh Kumar / Hindustan Times)

Dismissing speculations of unrest in the bloc, Kumar said, There were murmurs that I won't attend it (INDIA alliance's meeting). This is nonsense, I had a fever at that time. Whenever the next (meeting) would be held, I would definitely go.

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The Congress's plan to swiftly convene a meeting of the INDIA alliance faced a setback on Tuesday as at least three non-Congress chief ministers, including Nitish Kumar, and a former CM declined to participate.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, along with his Jharkhand and West Bengal counterparts, and Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Akhilesh Yadav, chose to skip the Opposition alliance meeting. Later in the day, the Congress announced that a coordination meeting of parliamentary party leaders of the 28-party grouping will be held instead on Wednesday.

A coordination meeting of parliamentary party leaders of INDIA alliance will be held at 6 pm on December 6th, 2023 at the residence of Congress President Sh. Mallikarjun Kharge. Thereafter meeting of Party Presidents/ Heads of the India Alliance will be scheduled in third week of December at a date convenient to all, tweeted Gurdeep Sappal, a member of the INDIA coordination committee.

Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav, who had pulled no punches on Congress over seat-sharing in Madhya Pradesh polls, also seemed to have adopted a conciliatory tone. Yadav on Tuesday asserted that the results of the recently concluded Assembly polls in states would further strengthen the INDIA bloc while also hitting out at the Congress over the outcome.

speaking at a television news channels event in Lucknow, he said: Results of the recently concluded polls would only strengthen and consolidate the INDIA alliance. And this should worry the BJP. The public has been in a mood to bring in change. There would have been a change of power in a state had the Congress not behaved the way it did there.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Sudhanshu Trivedi on Tuesday credited the robust GDP numbers to the shift from the derided 'Hindu Growth Rate' to what he coined as the 'Hindutva Growth Rate.' During a discussion in Rajya Sabha on the state of the Indian economy, Trivedi said the Indian economy was striving to go beyond 2 per cent, which was jokingly labelled as the "Hindu rate of growth". Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Sudhanshu Trivedi speaks in Rajya Sabha.(ANI / File)

"With respect to the Indian economy, I am being reminded of the days when the country was under Congress rule. Our country was made fun of back in those days and it was said, in a jocular vein, that our economy couldn't grow beyond 2 per cent. It was ridiculed as the 'Hindu Growth Rate'," he said.

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Drawing a sharp contrast, the BJP MP asserted that under Prime Minister Modi's governance, India has soared to new economic heights.

"At 7.8 percent, we now have the highest growth rate among all the major economies of the world," he declared proudly. The MP attributed this turnaround to the faith placed in Hindutva, suggesting that those critical of the term were the same individuals content with a meagre two per cent 'Hindu Growth Rate.'

"Now, it is no more a 'Hindu Growth Rate' but a 'Hindutva Growth Rate.' Now, the people (who are in power) have faith in Hindutva," the MP remarked.

Reinforcing his 'Hindutva growth' argument, he added that India's fastest growth rate coincides with the 'pran prathistha' of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya next month.

The Rajya Sabha is likely to continue the discussion on the prevailing economic situation in the country on the third day of the ongoing Winter Session. The discussion on a short-duration notice on the economic situation in the country, which was initiated by Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien on Tuesday, is to be continued in the Upper House on Wednesday, reported ANI.
India expressed its support for Myanmars transition towards a federal democracy during Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between the two countries in New Delhi on Wednesday, against the backdrop of a string of military successes by anti-junta resistance forces. Indias Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra & Deputy FM U Lwin Oo of Myanmar in New Delhi (Twitter/@MEAIndia)

The two sides discussed a wide range of issues, including the situation along the India-Myanmar border and security, during the 20th round of FOC. The Indian delegation at the meeting was led by foreign secretary Vinay Kwatra and the Myanmar side was headed by deputy foreign minister Lwin Oo.

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The Indian side reiterated its support to Myanmar for its transition towards a federal democracy, the external affairs ministry said in a readout on the meeting without giving details.

Also Read: 1300 Myanmar refugees taking shelter in Manipurs Kamjong: Officials

The two sides also discussed trade, commerce, connectivity, the status of bilateral development projects in Myanmar, and concerns related to transnational crimes, the readout said.

The Indian side also expressed its continued support to people-centric socio-economic developmental projects, including connectivity projects and projects under the Rakhine State Development Programme and the Border Area Development Programme for the benefit of the people of Myanmar.

The meeting was held at a time when anti-junta resistance forces drawn from diverse ethnic groups have scored several successes against Myanmars military in different parts of the country, including strategic regions located near the borders with China and India.

The Peoples Defence Forces and ethnic armed organisations have captured areas around the only two official land border crossing points between India and Myanmar and overrun dozens of military bases. Reports have said the military has suffered casualties in attacks over the past week in Rakhine, Kachin, Shan and Karenni states and Magwe and Sagaing regions.

Myanmars activists have called on members of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) grouping to stay away from a conference being organised by the junta in Naypyitaw on December 15. The members of the grouping include Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, and Chinas Yunnan province and Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region.

India has maintained ties with Myanmars military regime largely because of concerns about the activities of anti-India militant groups, which have several bases across the border.
The Congresss plan to hurriedly call a meeting of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) collapsed on Tuesday after at least three non-Congress chief ministers and a former CM refused to join the December 6 event at a time when questions are being raised about the future of the grouping. (From left) RJD chief Lalu Prasad, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, NCP chief Sharad Pawar and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray in Mumbai on September 1. (HT photo)

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad later told reporters that the meeting will be held on December 17, an announcement that came against the backdrop of the Congress suffering an electoral drubbing in three heartland states on Sunday and disquiet among INDIA bloc allies over stalled seat-sharing talks.

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Later in the day, the Congress announced that a coordination meeting of parliamentary party leaders of the 28-party grouping will be held instead on Wednesday.

Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, his Jharkhand counterpart, Hemant Soren, and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee told the Congress that they wouldnt be able to attend the meeting, said people aware of developments. Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Akhilesh Yadav also said he would be missing the December 6 meeting, but was likely to depute another party leader for the event.

The meeting will be held on December 17 and all leaders will attend the meeting, Lalu said.

A coordination meeting of parliamentary party leaders of INDIA alliance will be held at 6 pm on December 6th, 2023 at the residence of Congress President Sh. Mallikarjun Kharge. Thereafter meeting of Party Presidents/ Heads of the India Alliance will be scheduled in third week of December at a date convenient to all, tweeted Gurdeep Sappal, a member of the INDIA coordination committee.

A senior member of a non-Congress party confirmed the development.

We, the Opposition floor leaders, usually meeting at Kharges office in the morning. On Wednesday, we will meet at his residence in the evening, he said. Another leader added that many regional parties are set to press for seat adjustments without any delay.

The reluctance of top alliance leaders to join the meeting on Wednesday comes against the backdrop of the Congresss setback in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh -- three north Indian states where it was directly pitted against the BJP.

The Congress had stalled seat-sharing talks in anticipation of a good performance in the assembly elections that could have put it at an advantage in any negotiations, and had refused to have any informal arrangements in the three states. That strategy appeared to have backfired as the Congress lost its governments in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, and failed to dislodge the BJP in Madhya Pradesh.

Though the party won Telangana, its dismal head-to-head record against the BJP cast a long shadow on the partys ability to put up a credible fight against the BJP in the Hindi belt, and effectively relegated it to southern India.

Even as the tension between the allies remained palpable on Tuesday, some Opposition leaders insisted that it was too early to write off the INDIA bloc.

It is definitely a huge setback for the Congress and INDIA allies. But it will not demolish the alliance but allows more maneuvering space for the regional parties in the group, said a leader from southern India, requesting anonymity.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, who is scheduled to leave for North Bengal on Wednesday for a four-day visit, was also expected to stay away from the meeting. On Monday, she blamed the lack of seat-sharing arrangements for the Congresss losses. She called the drubbing a defeat of the Congress and not a disaster for the larger Opposition.

On Tuesday, Bihar minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary, who blamed the Congress for ignoring regional parties, said Kumar had recovered from an illness and would not take part in the meeting as it was not required. He added that Janata Dal (United) or JD(U) leader Rajiv Ranjan and Bihar minister Sanjay Jha will attend the meeting on Kumars behalf.

Choudhary said there was not much time left and that Congress should learn from the debacle in three states. He added that there should be no further delay in seat sharing across states. Nitish Kumars model is of a united fight and if that happens, a win is not improbable, said Choudhary.

SP spokesperson Rajendra Chaudhary said Akhilesh Yadav has no plans of attending the INDIA meeting. He added Ram Gopal Yadav or any other leader authorised will go for the meeting.

Ramgopal Yadav said Akhilesh was busy with some programmes in the Purvanchal region. It does not matter if a leader does not participate. All parties will be there at the meeting. Leaders are busy. They have prior commitments... the meeting was announced suddenly.

Akhilesh, whose party fielded candidates in Madhya Pradesh after a public falling out with the Congress, on Monday said he was not disappointed with the assembly election results and added that it would not impact their prospects in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

Soren cited his busy schedule and said he would be unable to attend the INDIA meeting while ruling out differences among coalition partners. I will be busy here. I spoke to [Congress chief Mallikarjun] Kharge Ji yesterday [Monday]...maybe our representative will go.

JD(U) leader KC Tyagi said another key member of the alliance, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad, will be at the meeting. The Congress will have to show a big heart. In key states such as Bihar, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu, it will have to offer the reins to stronger regional parties.

He promised to give the Congress its due in Bihar. Congress should not be overconfident to the extent of ignoring regional parties as it will be counterproductive.

Tyagi called for keeping the door open for parties such as the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the YSR Congress Party for post-poll alliances. BJD and YSR Congress Party were formed following splits in the Janata Dal and the Congress. Today, they are not with us, but after the polls, they may be helpful if the situation demands. The most important thing is to work out a workable plan and implement it. In many states, regional parties are stronger and the Congress needs to understand this.

On November 2, Kumar criticised the Congress for being preoccupied with the elections in the five states and neglecting the INDIA bloc. The JD(U) attacked the Congress for ignoring regional parties after the poll reverses in the three heartland states.
Union home minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said that Jammu and Kashmir suffered because of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehrus two historic blunders  first announcing the ceasefire and then going to the United Nations, adding that Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) would have been part of India today if right steps were taken by the former Prime Minister. Union home minister Amit Shah at the Parliament on Wednesday (Twitter Photo)

He asserted that Kashmiri Pandits had to leave their homes because of the vote-bank politics by the parties in Kashmir, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has ensured these people get their rights with respect.

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Nehru himself wrote to Sheikh Abdullah, admitting that when our army was winning, we should not have agreed to the ceasefire. He admitted they could have negotiated better (at the UN). PoK, which is ours anyway, would have been with us today if the right steps were taken. So much land of the country was lost. I say these were not mistakes. These were two historic blunders, Nehruvian blunders, due to which Kashmir had to suffer, Shah said while replying to the debate on two bills - the Jammu and Kashmir reservation (amendment) bill, 2023 and Jammu and Kashmir reorganization (amendment) bill, 2023 in Lok Sabha.

Also Read: Amit Shah reminds Congress of Nehrus 2 PoK blunders, says biggest was

A ruckus ensued in Parliament as Shah referred to what he called a Nehruvian blunder. His comments led to an uproar in the house, with Congress leaders terming it as an insult to the former prime minister. Congress later staged a walkout.

The two bills were introduced in Parliament on July 26 but were taken up for discussion on Tuesday.

The J&K reservation bill seeks to provide reservation in jobs and admission in professional institutions to scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and other socially and educationally backward classes. The J&K reorganisation bill provides for the reorganisation of the erstwhile state of J&K into the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir (with an elected legislature) and Ladakh (without an elected legislature). It seeks to increase the number of seats to 90 from 83 in the J&K assembly  a number fixed by the delimitation commission earlier this year. It also reserves seven seats for scheduled castes and nine for scheduled tribes.

Shah said that the two bills aim to provide rights to those who have faced injustice and were ignored for decades.

It will provide justice to those who faced injustice, were unseen and ignored for so long. They lived in their own country as refugees. Giving rights is fine but giving rights with respect is what matters more. This bill will give them back their rights to jobs, education, contest elections through reservation, he said.

Several opposition leaders questioned the need for bringing new laws and the impact of the removal of Articles 370 and 35A from the erstwhile state.

Shah, responding to assertions, said article 370 was the root of all separatism and subsequent terrorism in the Valley, which he claimed has reduced significantly since.

On August 5-6, 2019, those (Kashmiri) voices which were not heard for decades were heard. Around 46,631 Kashmiri Pandit families were displaced from their own homes and land, which was grabbed. Nobody thought about them. Rather, those who should have stopped this exodus were holidaying in London.

The home minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the only leader who has worked towards wiping their tears, who had to leave their homes and live in camps in other cities within India.

Also Read: Amit Shah snubs TMC MP: When well be in power in Bengal, youll understand development

We found the solution and steps have been taken to return the properties to the rightful owners, Shah said that the bills will also give voices to these persons in the J&K assembly.

On terrorism, Shah said terror incidents in the Valley have come down by 70% compared to Congress rule from 2004 to 2014; civilian and security personnel deaths are 72% and 59% less, respectively, and there were zero incidents of stone-pelting now.

Besides, J&K has for the first time in 30 years a cinema hall, a multiplex and a record two crore tourists have travelled there, Shah added.

The home minister also said a zero-terror plan, which has been prepared for J&K and has been worked on for the past three years, will be completed by 2026.

He also lashed out at Congress for talking about backward classes, saying that if any party has harmed backward classes and come in the way of their growth, it is Congress.

On a challenge by the leader of the opposition Adhir Ranjan Chowdhary to have a full-day debate on the so-called mistakes of Nehru, Amit Shah said he was ready to debate on the issue anytime.

Both the bills were passed by the Lok Sabha after Shahs speech.
New Delhi: Union home minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said the two bills linked to Jammu and Kashmir that were tabled by the Union government in the parliament, are aimed at providing justice to those deprived of their rights for over 70 years. Speaking during the debate on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, Shah attacked the Congress without naming the party, saying the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits could have been averted had terrorism been tackled without consideration for vote-bank politics. Union home minister Amit Shah speaks in the Lok Sabha during the Winter session of Parliament, in New Delhi.(PTI)

Defending the bills, he said the two bills will provide representation to those who had to leave Kashmir because of terrorism.

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Amit Shah informed the House that one seat in the Kashmir assembly will be reserved for those displaced from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. He said one of the two bills will also nominate two people from the Kashmiri migrant community to the assembly.

"When they (Kashmiri Pandits) were displaced, they were forced to live as refugees in their country. Around 46,631 families were displaced in their own country. This Bill is to get them rights, this Bill is to give them representation," he said.

"Had terrorism been tackled at the beginning without considering vote-bank politics, Kashmiri Pandits wouldn't have had to leave the valley," he added.

He said those responsible for stopping the exodus were enjoying vacations in England.

"There was an era of terrorism (in Jammu and Kashmir) after the 1980s and it was a horrifying scene. Those who lived on the land considering it their country, were thrown out and no one cared about them, neither did they try to stop it. In fact, those who were responsible for stopping it, were enjoying vacations in England," he added.

The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, introduced in Lok Sabha on July 26, 2023, seeks to amend the union territory's reservation act. This bill seeks to provide reservation in jobs and educational institutions to members of the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and other backward classes.

It provides reservation to socially and educationally backward people living in backward villages and those living like areas on the Line of Control and International Border.

Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill allows the Lieutenant Governor to nominate up to two members from the Kashmiri migrant community to the assembly, including one woman. Migrants are defined as persons who migrated from the Kashmir Valley or any other part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir after November 1, 1989 and are registered with the Relief Commissioner.

With inputs from PTI, ANI
Pakistan-based outlawed International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF) chief Lakhbir Singh Rode, 71, who died in Lahore on Monday, was one of the most wanted Khalistani terrorists trying to revive terrorism in Punjab with the help of Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The notice for the confiscation of Lakhbir Singh Rodes land in Punjab. (PTI)

Rode was a nephew of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, whose killing in the 1984 Operation Bluestar against the insurgents holed up in Amritsars Golden Temple, the holiest Sikh shrine, fuelled the insurgency in Punjab. He fled to Pakistan in 1991 as the insurgency was being suppressed.

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Rode, who was designated an individual terrorist under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), lived in a posh locality in Lahore under the Pakistan Armys patronage, according to a Punjab Police dossier. A special court in Punjabs Mohali ordered the confiscation of his land based on the designation.

Rode, who was named a mastermind of tiffin bombs in Punjab, was involved in smuggling arms and ammunition via Jammu and Kashmir with the help of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. In 2010, security forces said they killed Rodes three aides when they were trying to cross over to India with arms to carry out terrorist attacks.

People aware of the matter said Rode joined hands with Pakistan-based Khalistani terrorists Ranjeet Neeta and Harmeet PhD in 2017. The Punjab Police said they busted modules and recovered grenades and pistols the three smuggled into India.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) booked Rode in October 2021 under the Explosive Substances Act, the UAPA, Narcotic-Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act in connection with a tiffin bomb blast near a bank in Fazilka a month earlier.

Rodes ISYF was banned under the Prevention of Terrorist Activities Act in 2002. The group was proscribed in the United Kingdom a year earlier. All tiffin bomb modules busted in the last couple of years in Punjab were believed to be his handiwork.

Rode was designated as the main conspirator of the 2021 Ludhiana court blast, which left one person dead and six injured. Rodes nephew was arrested after RDX and a tiffin bomb was recovered in Jalandhar the same year.

Balwinder Singh, who was awarded Shaurya Chakra for his role in fighting terrorism, was allegedly killed at Rodes behest in Punjabs Tarn Taran in 2020. Rodes son, Bhaggu Brar, has been accused of promoting anti-India activities in Canada besides carrying out terrorist activities in Punjab. He regularly travelled to Pakistan to provide arms and funds to his father.

In February this year, nine people, including Rode, were booked for smuggling arms, ammunition, drugs, and explosives using drones from across the border. Smuggling of ammunition via unmanned aerial vehicles emerged as a major challenge for security forces as they sought to prevent the revival of terrorism in the region.

In June 2021, two Indian Air Force personnel were injured in blasts carried out through drones at the Jammu airport, which is used for strategic operations and VVIP movements. Multiple Pakistani drones continued to be detected along the India-Pakistan border in the following years.
Residents of Leithao village in Manipurs Tengnoupal district fled their homes on Tuesday, a day after 13 people died in a gunfight with the villages defence volunteers in the village, people aware of the matter said. Until late Monday night, teams of police and Assam Rifles were at the village of Kukis. Leithao village had been relatively peaceful since tension first erupted in the state on May 3 because of which security forces were not posted in the village. The nearest security post is around 10km away in Saibol. Family members arrive to collect the bodies of 13 people who were killed in a gunfight in village in Manipurs Tengnoupal district on Monday, at JMINS mortuary on Tuesday. (PTI)

After the security forces left on Monday night, all the villagers fled. They are all staying with their relatives in Chehlep and Phalbung village, which is also in Tengnoupal. We request security forces to come and guard our villages. The militants will again come to attack us, said Jamkhogin Lupho, secretary of the Leithao village. Police and security forces in parts of the state have been on high alert after the bodies were taken to Imphal late on Monday night. Videos shared on social media showed people holding a candle light vigil on a main road of the state capital as the police convoy passed by . The security detail was also increased at the mortuary of the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) in Imphal West, where the bodies were kept for autopsy. JMINS mortuary is already under the security cover of the Border Security Force (BSF) because it has at least 26 unclaimed bodies of Kukis who died in the ethnic clashes.

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We want a permanent post of the Assam Rifles in the village. In the map, the Assam Rifle camp at Saibol and the temporary one at Bongmol appear to be near to our village but it is difficult for them to reach the village on time if there is any emergency. There is no proper road connecting our village. Before the shooting happened, the militants also ransacked the houses. Many people were out working in the fields when they (the militants) entered the village. From my house alone, they fled with nearly 45,000, the village chief added.

The village, which comes under the territorial jurisdiction of Machi police station in Tengnoupal district, has nine houses and around 70 residents.

On Monday, the 13 men were killed in a fresh incident of violence in Manipur -- the highest single-day toll reported in the state in six months, and one that punctured the tenuous peace in the strife-torn region once again. The villagers claimed that there were more than 20 armed men who attacked the village. While 13 were killed, the others fled . While police did not comment on how the 13 men were killed, villagers said the 13 died after a gunfight with village defence volunteers that lasted around half an hour. No casualties were reported by villagers on the other side.

Neither police nor security forces confirmed the identity or ethnicity of the 13 people who were killed.

But mid-level police officers, said police have established the identify of all the 13 men. So far ,we have not found the 13 men to be connected with any militant group. They are all from Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching districts. The family members have also confirmed the identity. The bodies have been kept in the JMINS mortuary for post-mortem, a mid-level police officer said.

Manipur has been roiled by ethnic clashes between the Meiteis and the Kukis since May 3. The clashes have left at least 182 dead (excluding the 13 who died on Monday) and around 50,000 homeless. The largest single-day toll in the state before Monday was reported on June 14, when nine people were shot dead in different areas of Kangpokpi district.

With incidents of violence reducing in recent days, the state government on Sunday resumed mobile internet services across the state, except in the buffer zones -- small areas with a radius of around 2km that connect valley districts with hill districts. The Meiteis, the dominant community in the state, largely live in valley. The Kuki tribals live in the hill districts.
New Delhi: Saudi Arabia has revised visa regulations and increased dedicated flights to India so that more Indians can perform Umrah, or the pilgrimage to Makkah done outside the month of Ramzan, Saudi Hajj and Umrah minister Tawfig Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah has said. Saudi Hajj and Umrah minister Tawfig Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah has said. (HT photo)

With 1.37 million Indian Muslims expected to perform Umrah in 2024, up from 1.2 million in 2023, Al-Rabiah said in an interview that Indians no longer require a specific visa for Umrah and can perform the pilgrimage with work or tourism visas. He also lauded the role of Indian expatriates in the economic and cultural enrichment of Saudi Arabia.

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Q. What is the purpose of your visit to India?

A. During my time in India, I will have the opportunity to witness the inauguration of the Nusuk platform exhibition to showcase advancements in electronic services tailored for pilgrims. The platforms primary objective is to elevate the Umrah experience, offering a range of digital services and resources designed to enhance the spiritual journey of visitors to the Two Holy Mosques in Makkah and Medinah.

Nusuk also seeks to introduce pilgrims to historical and Islamic landmarks in these sacred cities, emphasising their visits cultural and spiritual significance. The event will showcase a collective effort to maximise the impact of the pilgrimage, providing innovative tools and services to support Umrah performers throughout their journey.

Q. What measures have been taken to facilitate the arrival of more Indian pilgrims? Could you shed light on recent changes and how they impact their experience?

A. To accommodate a larger number of Umrah pilgrims, agreements have been brokered to augment the number of dedicated flights catering to pilgrims from India. This expansion encompasses the introduction of direct flights from multiple Indian airports to Jeddah and Madinah, facilitating seamless travel.

Additionally, a strategic increase in seat capacity on Saudi Airlines has been implemented, mirroring the growing demand for Umrah pilgrimage. These collective measures aim to streamline and enrich the experience for Indian travellers, underscoring a concerted effort to ensure a smooth and expedited journey for all Umrah participants from India.

Recent revisions to Umrah visa regulations for Indian Muslims mark a significant shift, notably eliminating restrictions based on their previous visa status and introducing a user-friendly e-visa system. These changes streamlined the visa application process, leading to accelerated approvals and fostering an environment of inclusivity and heightened security.

Noteworthy adaptations include extension of the Umrah visa to 90 days. To streamline Umrah visits, individuals looking to perform Umrah can now acquire an entry visa within 48 hours. Additionally, Indian travellers are authorised to undertake Umrah in Saudi Arabia using their work, tourist or Umrah visas and with a UK, US or Schengen visa or residency in these countries. Furthermore, Indians keen on performing Umrah can obtain a stopover visa.

These measures are specifically designed to provide Indian pilgrims with enhanced flexibility throughout their journey, particularly benefiting women embarking on independent Umrah trips. By promoting gender equality and cultivating a safer, more embracing environment, these changes collectively aim to ensure a more fulfilling and secure pilgrimage experience for all travellers.

Also Read: Saudi outreach to India, via Hajj, Umrah pilgrims

Q. Could you shed some light on the significance of initiatives like the Tasheer centre and how it contributes to serving Indian pilgrims?

A. Introducing the Tasheer centre marks a significant milestone in catering to Umrah pilgrims from India, offering expedited and seamless visa services. This initiative underscores a steadfast dedication to elevating service standards and harnessing technology to serve pilgrims efficiently.

Aligned with the core goals of the Pilgrims Experience Program, a pivotal aspect of Saudi Vision 2030, the establishment of the Tasheer centre exemplifies the ministry of Hajj and Umrahs commitment to continually enhance the pilgrimage experience for all visitors to Saudi Arabia, regardless of the type of visa held. This progressive step epitomises a concerted effort to streamline the visa process, ensuring a hassle-free and convenient journey for Umrah pilgrims from India.

Q. How has the Indian community contributed to the development of Saudi Arabia?

A. The Indian community, numbering approximately two million, has made a profound and lasting impact on Saudi Arabia, excelling across domains such as economics, social engagement, cultural enrichment and academia. Their invaluable contributions have played a pivotal role in shaping the nations development and greatly enriched Saudi society, fostering cultural diversity and mutual understanding. Actively engaged in various facets of national progress, the Indian communitys participation has driven the Kingdoms multifaceted advancement, marking them as significant contributors to the countrys growth and integration.
NEW DELHI: The central government must be given certain leeway to make adjustments in the larger interest of the nation when it is dealing with insurgency and violence, the Supreme Court observed on Wednesday in the course of its hearing on a clutch of petitions challenging the constitutional validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act. Solicitor general Tushar Mehta told the court last month that the Citizenship Acts Section 6A was contemplated as a compromise based on a mix of political, extra-territorial and national security issue (HT FILE PHOTO)

Such adjustments may appear as concessions at a later point in time but can be compromises that governments are required to undertake in the interest of peace in strife-ridden states and for the countrys overall wellbeing, a five-judge constitution bench led by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud said.

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The observation was made while hearing arguments by petitioners who reasoned that it was discriminatory to allow illegal immigrants to Assam to get citizenship without any rational basis or study assessing its impact on the constitutional rights of the indigenous population of the state.

Section 6A is a special provision inserted into the 1955 Citizenship Act on December 7, 1985, based on the Assam Accord -- a tripartite agreement between the then Rajiv Gandhi-led central government, the Assam government and All Assam Students Union (AASU).

It came at the end of a six-year-long agitation by AASU to identify and deport illegal immigrants, mostly from neighbouring Bangladesh. The special provision allowed people who entered Assam between January 1, 1966, and March 25, 1971, and who were residing in the state, to register themselves as Indian citizens. Upon registration, such people would have the same rights and obligations as a citizen of India but would not be entitled to be included in any electoral roll for 10 years. Those who came before January 1, 1966, were granted deemed citizenship.

Last month, solicitor general Tushar Mehta in written submissions reasoned that the provision was contemplated as a compromise based on a mix of political, extra-territorial and national security issues and that it was designed to protect the lives of the residents of Assam and the foreigners.

On Wednesday, the bench comprising justices Surya Kant, MM Sundresh, JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra observed: Today we have states, even in the north-east, affected by insurgency and violence. We need to give a certain leeway to the Government in those situations to make adjustments to save the nation.

On the petitioners claiming discrimination against Assam, the bench said, These are vexed issues. Can Parliament not say that we are doing this to bring about peace in a strife-ridden state or should we allow that strife to continue merely because we will be discriminating between states.

It may appear, maybe after 25 years when the nation is stable, why did the government make the concession. But at that moment, these are compromises that governments have to make, the bench said. The court referred to the violent protests in Assam which led to the signing of the Assam Accord

At that point where there was so much violence in Assam, we need to put ourselves in the position of the government at Centre in 1985, the then Parliament, the bench observed, adding, Any solution they would have found is bound to be inexact as there cannot be a mathematical solution in these cases.

Senior advocates Shyam Divan, Kamal Narayan Chaudhary and Vijay Hansaria appearing for the petitioners concluded their arguments. They faulted Section 6A on other fronts, saying it effectively led to dual citizenship for the illegal immigrants since there was no record to show they renounced their previous citizenship while becoming an Indian citizen. Article 9 of the Indian Constitution bars dual citizenship.

Chaudhary said that Section 6A was brought in by the Rajvi Gandhi government which enjoyed brute force with over 400 MPs and said it was a joke and a product of the vote bank politics that sought to favour illegal migrants over indigenous citizens of Assam.

Hansaria said that as on March 25, 1971, the sovereign nation of Bangladesh was not born and citizens of that country owed allegiance to the Constitution of Pakistan. Hansaria said these persons, who were citizens of Pakistan, were governed by Article 6 of the Indian Constitution which only grants citizenship to migrants from Pakistani who entered India before July 19, 1948. Thus, a second cut-off date prescribed by a law could not violate the Constitution, he argued.

The court said, Can you attribute to Parliament that when they enacted Section 6A, they wanted to confer citizenship to citizens of Pakistan? If these people have left their motherland, the last thing they would like to do is to owe their allegiance to their Constitution.

On the July 1948 cutoff, the bench said, In 1948, a large number of persons fled to India. It extended protection to those persons. But here the Parliament was looking into the human suffering.

The petitioners said human suffering has always led to people leaving their country and seeking refuge in another country on account of persecution or injustice. India has given asylum to Chakma refugees, Rohingyas, Sri Lankan Tamils and Tibetans who have never been given citizenship benefits, they added.

The court responded, Parliament is not bound to give citizenship to every hue and dimension of persons. It is not bound to pick out everyone.

The court has posted the case for further hearing on Thursday when the Centre is expected to start presenting its stand.
Earthquake activity has increased in 2023 owing to the activation of the Almora fault in Western Nepal, the ministry of earth sciences informed the Lok Sabha on Wednesday. There have been 97 earthquakes between magnitude 3.0 to 3,9 in 2023 compared to 41 in 2022. The activation in the Almora fault triggered significant earthquake incidents on January 24, October 3 and November 3. All these three earthquakes were over magnitude 5.8. "These mainshocks, accompanied by subsequent aftershocks, have led to an increased frequency of earthquakes in the year 2023. However, the background seismicity remained unchanged during this period," the ministry informed Parliament. In 2023, significant earthquake incidents took place on January 24, October 3 and November 3.

The number of earthquakes in 2023 in comparison with the previous years.

"It is common for northern India and Nepal to occasionally experience moderate earthquakes, and fluctuations in seismic activity. Nepal and the neighbouring northern part of India, situated near the active faults of the Himalayan region, are highly seismically active areas prone to frequent earthquakes due to collision tectonics, where the Indian plate subducts beneath the Eurasian Plate," the statement read.

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The northern part of India including Delhi-NCR experienced strong tremors this year. On January 24, an earthquake of magnitude 5.8 hit Nepal. It was strongly felt in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

On October 3, two earthquakes of magnitude 4.6 and 6.2 jolted Nepal and the tremors were felt in Delhi-NCR.

On November 3, a powerful earthquake of 6.4 magnitude hit Nepal with more than 382 aftershocks.
Jaipur: Rajasthan DGP Umesh Mishra has formed a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the murder of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi. The police have identified two shooters allegedly involved in the audacious crime. Jaipur: Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena supporters burn tyres during a protest over the killing of their leader Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, outside the Metro Mas Hospital in Jaipur. (PTI)

The police have accused Rohit Rathore Makrana and Nitin Fauji of being involved in the murder. They have also announced a reward of 5 lakh each on them.

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The father of Nitin Fauji told PTI that his son had gone to get his car repaired on December 9 and was missing since then.

"My son went to Mahendragarh to get the car repaired at 11 am on December 9. There has been no contact with him ever since," he said.

The news agency also talked to the accused's classmate Deepak, who said he was very good at studies.

"Nitin was my classmate. He was very good in studies and later decided to join the Army. He prepared for his physical (exam) and later joined the Army. I don't know who brainwashed him, and now his name has emerged out of nowhere," he added.

Nitin Fauji (ANI)

Meanwhile, Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi's murder has prompted protests in Jaipur and other parts of the state.

Rajput leader Raj Shekhawat has demanded that the "bullet be answered with the bullet."

"Those who are responsible for the murders should be encountered; this is the demand of society," he added.

He was shot dead inside his house. Shekhawat claimed he was not provided security despite receiving threats.

One of the attackers was killed in the incident.

"The killers had come to his house on the pretext of discussing something. In this incident, Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi and one of his bodyguards were shot. An accused accompanying the killers was also shot, and he has died. Raids are being conducted at the possible hideouts of the miscreants. We spoke to the Haryana DG, and assistance has been sought. The Rohit Godara gang has taken responsibility for the murder; they will be arrested soon," the Rajasthan DGP had said.

With inputs from PTI
Two days after the Congress lost to the BJP in the Rajasthan assembly election, a political slugfest started over the murder of Karni Sena chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi who was shot dead in his home in Jaipur on Tuesday. Karni Sena called Rajasthan bandh on Wednesday over the murder while the BJP which is going to form the government in the state claimed that it was a "revenge plan" of the Congress after losing the state. BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala shared a video of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi saying that police had input about his security threat but Congress CM Ashok Gehlot reduced his security. A video grab from the CCTV footage of Karni Sena president Sukhdev Singh's murder in Jaipur on Tuesday. (ANI)

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Karni Sena chief's murder caught on camera: Here's what happened

1. Three bike-borne men came to Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi's house in Jaipur on Tuesday and fired bullets at him.

2. The shootout incident was caught on the CCTV camera and the footage surfaced on social media.

3. One of Gogamedi's security guards sustained bullet injuries as he retaliated. One of the three attackers died in the cross-firing. He was gunned down by his accomplices though police initially said the attacker died from the firing by Gogamedi's security guards.

4. On December 3 as the election results came out and the incumbent Congress lost to the BJP, Gogamedi wrote on X that Congress lost because of ignoring Karni Sena.

5. Rajasthan Police said Rohit Godara gang took responsibility for the murder. Gangster Rohit Godara is closely associated with Goldie Brar and Lawrence Bishnoi gangs.

6. Gogamedi's supporters have called for a bandh on Wednesday in protest over the killing and threatened a statewide shutdown if action is not taken on the matter.

7. All prominent political leaders of the state including Congress's Ashok Gehlot, Sachin Pilot, BJP's Vasundhara Raje, Rajyavardhan Rathore, condemned the killing that took place at a time when the formation of a new government under the BJP was awaited. Congress leader Supriya Shrinate called it the 'return of jungle raj' as soon as the BJP came to power.

8. The BJP has not yet announced any name for the chief minister's post and said the caretaker government in the state was still under the Congress.

9. Shehzad Poonawala on December 3 claimed his 'Congress sources' informed him that the Congress was planning an all-out revenge against Rajasthan by 'manufacturing and concocting fake and manufactured stories and tasking various mafia, anti-social elements to vitiate the atmosphere by committing various crimes to show Rajasthan in bad light'.

10. "I just shudder to think what they are upto.. Technically it is still a Congress government but they are going all out in revenge mode!" the BJP leader posted after Gogamedi's murder.
The president of the right-wing group Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, was shot dead in his own home in Jaipur. The incident unfolded on Tuesday when three assailants, purportedly affiliated with the Rohit Godara gang, entered Gogamedi's residence in the Shyam Nagar area under the guise of a meeting. Supporters of Rajput Karni Sena President Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi blocked the Shipra Path road outside the hospital where he was rushed after he was shot at in his Jaipur residence.(ANI)

According to reports, the attackers, after engaging in conversation with Gogamedi, opened fire, leading to a retaliatory exchange with the security guards. The chilling incident, captured on CCTV, shows the attackers firing indiscriminately at Gogamedi, who eventually succumbs to the brutal assault. One assailant was killed during the incident, while two managed to escape, prompting a widespread search by law enforcement.

As the tension escalates, Gogamedi's supporters have called for a 'Jaipur bandh' on Wednesday and threatened a statewide shutdown if prompt action is not taken. Protests have erupted in various districts, and the political leaders, including Congress and BJP, have condemned the act.

Stay tuned for real-time updates on the unfolding situation, protests, and official responses surrounding the Rajasthan Bandh following the shocking murder of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Hawa Mahal MLA Balmukund Acharya has begun a crackdown on illegal non-vegetarian shops selling cooked or raw meat on the streets. Acharya, who was seen taking action as soon as he was elected on December 3, claimed that these meat-selling shops did not have licenses and were selling non-vegetarian foods near temples. BJP candidate Balmukund Acharya arrives at party office after his victory in Rajasthan Assembly elections, in Jaipur. (PTI)

Acharya's video went viral in which he was seen speaking to police officials asking them to shut all non-veg stalls on the streets. Speaking to an officer, Acharya said on call in front of the media, All the non-veg stalls on the streets should vanish with immediate effect. I will take a report from you in the evening. Will you hand it to me or will I have to come to your office?

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He asked an officer on call in front of the media, Can non-veg be sold openly on the streets? Say yes or no, you are live. You're supporting them? With immediate effect, non-veg shops should be shut. I will take the report from you, I don't know who is the officer.

As Acharya cut the call, people shouted Jai Shri Ram.

Acharya won by a minimal margin against the Congress candidate from the Hawa Mahal constituency.

On a drive to visit non-veg-selling shops on Monday, police were seen speaking to Acharya trying to reason with him but to no avail. He was seen shouting, Police are trying to stop us. The administration is stopping us.

In another video, Acharya was seen outside a non-vegetarian outlet in Jaipur asking to see their license. He accused the outlet of illegal possession of land. Not even a single person has a license here. How will a tourist come here? You have spread dirt all around. Karachi banana chahte ho? Yeh Apra Kashi hai.

Releasing a statement on Tuesday, Acharya said, I have been speaking to officers for a few years now that in our whole area, all constituencies in the old city, openly on the streets near temples in nooks and corners many meat shops are operating. There is a rule regarding meat shops that whatever meat you sell  raw or cooked  you have to cover it, you need to have a license and this has to be kept in mind.

He went on to say, Everyone has a job, you do it but follow the rule. This is a matter of concern and this is why I asked them to look into it. These shops are working on naalas in dirty conditions. This is spreading diseases. This is why we said that they should work according to the rules.

Acharya further said that meat shops set up a market in the morning and evening. They cook meat and there is smoke and smell that comes from it, which is an issue for those who do not eat meat and they face problems. He added that as a citizen, he requested officers to look into the matter.

If I offended anyone, then I seek your apology, he added.

The BJP has won 115 seats in Rajasthan and is set to form the next government in a state that has a history of changing governments every five years. The Congress, which was ruling the state under Ashok Gehlot, won only 69 seats.
Anumula Revanth Reddy, the firebrand local leader who steered the Congress to its first victory in Telangana, was named on Tuesday as the next chief minister of the southern state. He is set to take oath on December 7. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Revanth Reddy and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. (PTI)

Reddy, 54, heads the Telangana unit of the party and was instrumental in the Congress trouncing the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) in the recently concluded assembly elections, the first time in two decades that it had bested a regional force. The Congresss impressive victory in Telangana was the only bright spot for the party that slumped to losses in three key heartland states on Sunday.

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The announcement was made by Congress general secretary KC Venugopal in Delhi after a series of parleys held by the central leadership to resolve competing claims for the top post.

After considering the report by the observers and holding discussions, the party president Mallikarjun Kharge has decided to go with Revanth Reddy as the Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader, Venugopal told reporters.

He was flanked by two other contenders for the CMs post seven-time lawmaker and former state unit chief N Uttam Kumar Reddy and the partys floor leader in the outgoing assembly, Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka.

We will recognise all senior leaders. This is going to be a team, this is not going to be a one-man show. The Congress will go with the team, he told reporters while replying to queries on the issue.

The announcement ended the suspense surrounding the choice of the new CLP leader  with the Congress wining a simple majority, the partys leader in the assembly will be the CM  after Uttam Kumar Reddy and Vikramarka both threw their hats into the ring.

Reddy, who had switched over to the Congress from the Chandrababu Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party in 2017 and was appointed state unit chief in 2021, would be sworn-in on December 7 in Hyderabad.

But there was no word on whether the party will name a deputy chief minister or about the composition of the new cabinet.

All the details will be informed to you in due course, Venugopal said.

I wholeheartedly express my gratitude to honourable AICC president Shri Kharge ji, mother of Telangana our beloved Soniamma, ever-inspiring leader Rahul Gandhi ji, charismatic Priyanka Gandhi ji, AICC general secretary (org) K C Venugopalji, deputy CM of Karnataka DK Shivakumar ji and incharge general secretary- Telangana Manikrao Thakare, and last but not the least, our Congress soldiers who stood by us through thick and thin, Reddy posted on X.

Venugopal said Reddy was a dynamic leader who campaigned in this election extensively. We have already given a promise to the people of Telangana with our guarantees. We are very sure that the first and foremost priority of this new government is to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Telangana, especially the guarantees given to the people, he said.

Reddy started his career with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the student wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, and later moved to the TDP and won the Kodangal constituency in Mahabubnagar district in the 2009 and 2014 assembly polls. He joined the Congress in October 2017 and lost to the BRS in the 2018 elections. However, he bounced back in just a few months, winning the Malkajgiri Lok Sabha seat in the general elections.

Reddy was the face of the energetic Congress campaign which managed to successfully leverage anti-incumbency and defeat the BRS, winning 65 seats in the 119-member assembly. It was a stunning turnaround for a party that had won just 18 seats in the 2018 elections.

The Congress held a meeting of its newly-elected lawmakers in Hyderabad on Monday and passed a one-line resolution  a Congress tradition  authorising party chief Mallikarjun Kharge to appoint the CLP leader.

Dramatic developments followed, with several aspirants lobbying for the coveted post, citing their seniority and loyalty to the party. A section of senior leaders were opposed to Reddys leadership, calling him an outsider.

Tuesday began with a meeting at Kharges residence, attended by Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar, party secretary incharge of Telangana Manikrao Thakre and senior leader Rahul Gandhi.

According to a senior Congress leader familiar with the developments, Rahul Gandhi pitched for Reddys candidature. Thereafter, another meeting was held at Venugopals residence where Uttam Kumar Reddy and Vikramarka were present, along with Shivakumar and Thakre.

Both the contenders were asked to cooperate with Revanth Reddy and work unitedly for successful implementation of the promises made by the party to the people of Telangana, the leader cited above added, requesting anonymity.

Competing claims by senior leaders delayed the process after Mondays CLP meeting.

Reddy was considered the front runner for the top post but other leaders such as Uttam Kumar and Vikramarka had joined the race.

Yes, I have staked my claim and explained my case to Shivakumar. I am a seven-time MLA and have been loyal to the party for 30 years, Uttam Kumar had said, even as a majority of the newly-elected legislators told the party observers that they would prefer Reddy.

But Uttam Kumar had not budged. We were expecting 70 to 75 seats but got only 65. The performance is rather disappointing, though there was widespread anti-incumbency against the BRS government, he had told reporters.

Vikramarka, the Dalit face of the party, was also a contender. A Congress member since the early 1980s, he had recently undertaken an extensive march across the state and told the media on Sunday that he was ready to take up the responsibility if the high command directs.

It is possible that the central leadership will eventually opt for one or two deputy CM posts to placate the aspirants, a second senior party leader said, requesting anonymity.

The leadership tussle brought back bitter memories of the early 1980s when the party had changed four CMs in the erstwhile united Andhra Pradesh. This became one of the key campaign themes of Telugu Desam founder N T Rama Rao who stormed to power within nine months after floating the regional party.
Anumula Revanth Reddy, the firebrand leader who steered the Congress to its maiden victory in Telangana, will be sworn-in as the new chief minister at the sprawling Lal Bahadur Stadium in Hyderabad on Thursday. Telangana chief minister-designate A Revanth Reddy. (PTI)

A day after the party high command picked him over other senior contenders for the top post, ending suspense over the leadership issue, Revanth called on central leaders in Delhi including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Manikrao Thakre, KC Venugopal and Mallikarjun Kharge and personally invited them for the oath taking ceremony.

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A senior Congress leader who is familiar with the developments said the composition of the new cabinet was also discussed at these meetings.

Along with Revanth, five others, including a deputy chief minister, would take oath tomorrow, he said. The Congress floor leader in the outgoing assembly and the Dalit face of the party Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka is likely to be the new deputy chief minister, party leaders said.

The oath-taking ceremony will take place at 1.04 pm, officials in the Raj Bhavan said. Arrangements are in full swing at the venue. The state chief secretary Santhi Kumari and the Director General Police Ravi Gupta are supervising the works.

Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi is likely to attend the ceremony. Probably, Gandhi told reporters outside Parliament to questions on whether she would travel to Hyderabad.

Infighting delays decision

A day after dislodging the two-term Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government at the hustings, the Congress was caught in a leadership tussle, delaying the process to select the new CM.

There were two prominent contenders for the top post: N Uttam Kumar Reddy, a six-time MLA and former state unit president, and Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka.

Both of them lobbied for the post with the high command, citing their seniority and loyalty to the party. However, the central leadership picked Revanth (54) who had emerged as the face of the winning campaign and a choice of the majority of the 64 newly-elected MLAs in the state.

He was successful in infusing new energy and dynamism into a moribund organisation and ran an aggressive campaign focusing on the corruption and family rule of the BRS.

After considering the report by the AICC observers and holding discussions, the party president Mallikarjun Kharge has decided to go with Revanth Reddy as the CLP leader, the party general secretary KC Venugopal had announced in Delhi on Tuesday.

According to a senior Congress leader who is familiar with the developments, Rahul Gandhi pitched for Revanths candidature for CMs post. This clinched the deal for him.

Revanth, a three-time MLA, had switched over to the Congress from Chandrababu Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party in 2017 and was appointed the PCC chief in 2021.

A section of Telangana Congress leaders dub him as an outsider as he made a lateral entry into the party. Soon after his appointment as the state party chief in 2021, there was a virtual revolt from a section of senior leaders.

However, the high command firmly stood by him and gave him a free hand in the selection of candidates for the assembly polls and formulation of campaign strategies.

Impressive turnaround

From just 19 seats in 2018 to winning a comfortable majority, the Congress turnaround in Telangana has been spectacular, the credit for which goes largely to Revanth who is said to have established a good rapport with the partys central leaders including Rahul Gandhi.

Revanth started his career with ABVP, the student wing of the BJP, and later moved to the TDP and won the Kodangal constituency in Mahaboobnagar district in the 2009 and 2014 assembly polls. He joined the Congress only in October 2017 and lost to the BRS in the 2018 elections. However, he bounced back in just a few months, winning the Malkajgiri Lok Sabha seat in the elections.
Hindu right-wing group Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena (SRRKS) chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, 53, who was shot dead in Jaipur on Tuesday, came under the spotlight nationally six years earlier by slapping filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali during the shooting of Deepika Padukones film Padmavat. Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedis murder triggered protests. (ANI)

Rajput groups claimed the film hurt their communitys sentiments by showing a romantic scene involving Queen Padmavati in a dream sequence even as historians are divided over the authenticity of the character. Gogamedi led protests against the film and forced the removal of the scene from the film before its release in 2018.

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Born into a Rajput farmer family in Hanumangarh, Gogamedi announced a 20,00,000 bounty on a Muslim mans head for marrying a Rajput woman in 2017. Two years later, he was booked when a video purportedly showing him threatening people visiting the 12th-century Sufi Saint Moinuddin Chishtis shrine in Ajmer.

Gogamedi organised a gathering in Jaipur in April 2023 demanding an increase in the reservation for the Economic Weaker Sections belonging to the upper castes from 10% to 14%. He unsuccessfully sought a ticket from the Congress to contest the assembly polls in Rajasthan in November. In his last post on X, he blamed wrong ticket distribution for the Congresss loss in the elections on Sunday. The shameful defeat of the Congress is the result of their wrong ticket distribution and ignoring the Karni Sena. The high command should think about it.

Gogamedi earlier gained popularity locally by raising issues related to his caste group at the district level. In 2013, he contested his first election on a Bahujan Samaj Party ticket but finished third.

Gogamedi was appointed as the state president the same year of one of the two groups formed when the Shri Rajput Karni Sena split in 2010 due to disagreements between Rajput leaders Ajit Mamdoli and Lokendra Kalvi. Kalvi expelled Gogamedi from his faction two years later.

Political analyst Narayan Bareth said Kalvi was a bigger Rajput leader known to be patient and disciplined. He added Gogamedi was more popular among the younger generation. He had a more rowdy approach...

Gogamedi set up SRRKS in 2015 and led a protest against the alleged extra-judicial killing of gangster Anandapal Singh in 2017.
Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, who was shot dead at his residence on Tuesday, will be cremated on Thursday. The mortal remains Gogamedi are being taken from Metro Mass hospital to SMS Hospital, where a post-mortem will be done.



Meanwhile, an FIR has been registered at Shyam Nagar police station of Jaipur. The case has been registered under sections 307, 397, 341, 34,3 and 25(6) of IPC. Investigation handed over to SHO Manish Gupta, ANI reported.



Earlier in the day, massive protests took place across the state by Rajput organisations over the killing of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi. The protesters blocked roads, burnt tyres and blocked a train in Bhilwara to express their angst over the murder of Gogamedi, who was shot dead inside his Jaipur residence on Tuesday.



After having the two shooters as Rohit Rathore Makrana and Nitin Fauji, the Rajasthan Police constituted a special investigation team (SIT) headed by Additional Director General (Crime) Dinesh MN to probe the murder that took place amid regime change in the state after assembly election.



ALSO READ: On Karni Sena chief murder accused, new claims: 'Good at studies, brainwashed'



Here are the top developments unfolding in the state over the killing of a prominent Rajput leader.



1. Sources in the Punjab Police told PTI that it shared inputs with its counterpart in Rajasthan regarding the threat to the life of Gogamedi. In February, the Punjab DGP office had communicated to the Rajasthan Police, stating that notorious gangster Sampat Nehra of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang has plans to kill Gogamedi to incite religiously motivated riots in the state of Rajasthan.



2. The slain Karni Sena chief's wife has demanded that the shutdown be observed in the state on Wednesday too. Rajasthan bandh has to be observed tomorrow also. I call upon the Rajputs of the entire country to come here in maximum numbers because today Sukhdev Singh has become their (criminals') target, tomorrow any one of us can become their target, Sheela Shekhawat, Sukhdev Gogamedi's wife, was quoted as saying in a video shared by ANI.



ALSO READ: Slain Karni Sena chief came under spotlight by slapping filmmaker Bhansali



3. The Karni Sena chief's younger brother has claimed that his late brother had been demanding security from the Rajasthan government, but was not provided. Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi kept running behind all police officials for 5 years but no one provided him security...Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi was a face of 'sarva samaaj' and 'sarva samaaj' will stand in support of him, Shravan Singh Gogamedi said. Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena supporters shout slogans during a protest against the killing of their leader Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, in Ajmer,(PTI)

4. Rajasthan governor Kalraj Mishra spoke to Union home minister Amit Shah over the matter. He also summoned the state chief secretary, home secretary, DGP and Jaipur police commissioner to review the law and order situation in the state.

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5. Some leaders of the Rajput community claimed outside the private hospital, where the body of Gogamedi is kept since Tuesday, that the administration has accepted their demands, including a probe by the National Investigation Agency and protection to family and eyewitnesses. They also said now the agitation will end, PTI reported.



(With PTI, ANI inputs)
Thousands of people bid adieu to the Dasara elephant Arjuna on Tuesday at Dabbalikatte in Sakaleshapura taluk in Hassan district, where its last rites were performed. Arjuna died on Monday in a fight with a wild elephant, during an operation to capture the wild elephants in Sakaleshapura.

Arjuna died on Monday in a fight with a wild elephant, during an operation to capture the wild elephants in Sakaleshapura. The wild elephant pierced its tusk into Arjunas stomach, causing fatal injuries to its.While the mahouts fled during the fight between the two elephants, fearing for their lives, the department elephants also ran away fearing the attack by the wild elephant.

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A mahout, who was part of the operation, claimed that Arjuna suffered a bullet injury during the operation, which made it difficult for it to fight.

However, Hassan Circle conservator of forests B Ravi Shankar clarified that Department elephant Arjuna did not receive any gunshot wounds. He further claimed that extra care was taken and experienced staff was involved in the capturing operation. An autopsy was conducted by Hassan government veterinary college doctors and the report will reveal all the details, Shankar added.

The 64-year-old tusker, Arjuna, one of the many tamed elephants in the service of the Karnataka forest department, was drafted as part of a team of six that were deployed to drive back into forest a dozen-strong herd of wild elephants that were raiding crops of farmers in Yeslur Range in Hassan district, officials familiar with the development said.

On Tuesday, when forest officials moved to bury Arjuna in the forest plantation, local villagers strongly opposed the decision and demanded the burial to be done at a suitable place. They further demanded the construction of a memorial and charged the forest officials of negligence that led to the elephants death. Mahouts also demanded that the carcass be shifted to Balle elephant camp near Nagarhole for burial. However, the elephant was eventually buried in the forest with full state government honours.

Devaraj, a retired Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) told media that the forest department does not have enough trained elephants that can be used in operations to capture wild elephants. We dont have many trained elephants which can be used to capture wild elephants. Arjuna and Abhimanyu were part of many operations. Most tamed elephants run away if they hear of wild elephants, Devaraj said.

Ravishankar R, deputy conservator of forests said that a memorial will be built for Arjuna at the place where he has been laid to rest in Yelsur in Hassan district .

Forest minister Eshwar Khande on Tuesday said that the state government will construct a memorial for Arjuna in Hassan and Mysuru districts. Speaking to media on in Belagavi, he said the state government will further take steps to reduce human elephant conflict by erecting railway barricade fence.
New Delhi: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader on Wednesday invoked the name of his party's leader Uddhav Thackeray when a reporter asked him about whether the INDIA bloc should have a prime ministerial face for the 2024 general elections. However, he refrained from directly putting Thackeray's name in the race saying he didn't want to say anything that may trigger an rift among the parties. Sanjay Raut with Uddhav Thackeray. (File photo)

Many INDIA bloc parties have questioned the Congress party's right to play the big brother in the anti-BJP alliance after it lost the recent assembly elections in three Hindi-heartland states.

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"There will be a discussion on this. There should indeed be a face," Raut said.

He quickly added Thackeray's name to his remark.

"Uddhav Thackeray is a Hindutvawadi, nationalist face. A person who gets the approval of the INDIA alliance members can be the (PM) face. I don't want to say anything outside which might create any rift in the alliance," he added.

Rifts have become apparent in the INDIA alliance as many constituents refused to attend its meeting today, which was called by the Congress party after its election debacle.

Raut today said the meeting had been postponed and could be organized on December 16 and 18.

"The INDIA alliance meeting was supposed to be held today but some prominent leaders were not available. There is a wedding in Mamata Banerjee's house, MK Stalin is busy with the relief operation in his flood-hit state, Nitish Kumar is not well, and Akhilesh Yadav is not available, therefore this meeting will be held on 16th or 18th of December. The face etc. everything will be decided in the meeting. We are together and you will see its result in 2024," he added.

According to reports, seat-sharing for the Lok Sabha polls could be on the agenda of the meeting. There have been three similar meetings of the alliance in 2023.

The Bharatiya Janata Party called the alliance a flop.

Also read: 'Conceit': Congress slammed by INDIA bloc allies after 3-1 election drubbing

Many INDIA allies -- including Mamata Banerjee-led TMC, National Conference, Samajwadi Party, JDU and RJD-- blamed the Congress for its defeat and accused it of ignoring its partners in the run-up to the assembly elections.

Banerjee's Trinamool Congress said it was ready to assume the "leadership" of the 2024 battle against the BJP.

The Congress, however, found nothing amiss in the alliance.

"I don't think there is any problem with the INDIA coalition. The coalition is committed to making it a success, and I am sure that the leaders will find a convenient day to meet and take things forward," says Congress MP Karti Chidambaram.

With inputs from PTI
US principal deputy national security advisor Jonathan Finer has informed his Indian interlocutors of the importance of holding accountable anyone found responsible for allegedly plotting to kill a Khalistani leader on American soil, according to a readout from the White House. HT Image

Finer, who was in New Delhi for a review of the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), raised the plot during meetings with Indian officials, the readout said.

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He was the first US security official to hold publicly acknowledged meetings with the Indian leadership since American prosecutors alleged last week that an Indian national, Nikhil Gupta, had worked with an official purportedly responsible for intelligence in a thwarted plot to assassinate Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

Finer acknowledged Indias establishment of a Committee of Enquiry to investigate lethal plotting in the United States and the importance of holding accountable anyone found responsible, the White House readout said without giving details.

The readout also didnt specify which Indian officials Finer raised the issue with. The readout said Finer conducted bilateral and regional consultations with deputy national security advisor Vikram Misri, external affairs minister S Jaishankar, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, and foreign secretary Vinay Kwatra.

Finer and Misri carried out an intersessional review of the iCET, which the White House readout described as a major milestone in the US-India partnership, which is increasingly defined by strategic security and technology cooperation.

The readout added that Finers consultations with the other Indian officials were in-depth discussions aimed at strengthening coordination and policy alignment across the Indo-Pacific, including the wider Indian Ocean region.

The two sides also discussed West Asia, including the recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the importance of safeguarding freedom of commercial navigation, plans for a post-conflict Gaza and a pathway toward a two-state solution.

India has set up a high-level inquiry committee to examine the allegations of a conspiracy to kill Pannun, a senior leader of the outlawed SFJ who has already been declared a terrorist by India. New Delhi has described the indictment filed against Gupta in a US federal court in Manhattan as a matter of concern and said that follow-up action will be taken on the findings of the inquiry committee.
NEW DELHI: Democratic nations should work with Chinas internal pro-democracy forces such as Tibetans, Uyghurs and Hong Kong residents to bring about positive changes in the country, the head of the Tibetan government-in-exile has said. Central Tibetan Administration chief Penpa Tsering said (X/CTA_TibetdotNet)

Penpa Tsering, the democratically elected Sikyong or chief of the Central Tibetan Administration, also said India needed to speak out clearly on issues such as Chinas interference in choosing the successor to the Dalai Lama and Beijings belligerence across the region.

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Nobody wants anarchy in China because it is the second largest economy So, if you dont want anarchy, then you need positive change in China, and the only way that can come about is through implosion. Nobody is going to attack them from outside, Tsering said on the margins of an event organised by Tibetan groups in New Delhi on Tuesday evening.

So, pro-democracy movements in China  Tibetans, Uyghurs, Mongols, even Hong Kong residents  we are the internal forces. There has to be a union of internal and external forces to bring about positive change, he said.

The Central Tibetan Administration can only reach out to the democratic free world to take forward its cause, Tsering said. Only a few countries, including India and the UK, have real knowledge of the situation in Tibet and this makes it imperative for them to speak up on the issue.

I believe there are a lot of things that China can learn from India, which China is talking about, such as diverse culture. But unfortunately, they are moving towards a more uni-cultural system whereas the whole world is moving towards multiculturalism. China is doing this at the expense of all other cultures in the country, including Tibetan, he said.

One thing we have been saying is democracies around the world should come together when it comes to China. Otherwise, now you have [President] Xi Jinpings thoughts on global security initiative, global economic initiative, global cultural initiative. This is all rhetoric. They want to propagate to spread authoritarianism, he added.

Tsering said it will be helpful if Indias parliament adopts a resolution or issues a statement on the lines of the Tibet Support and Policy Act of 2020 passed by the US Congress, which states Tibetan Buddhists alone can decide on the succession of spiritual leaders such as the Dalai Lama and that the Chinese government cannot interfere in the process.

If the Indian Parliament or the government can come out with a statement, that will help us because many people look at Indias leadership when it comes to Tibet. When India is quiet, then its difficult for us to tell other countries as to why India is not saying things which they should be saying, he said.

Tsering acknowledged that India has its concerns which it has to be careful about, including the military standoff with China on the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

But then again, we keep saying, stand up for your values and your positions, only then will China respect you. Otherwise, they will not, he said.

Over the past few years, Chinese officials have said that the Dalai Lamas successor will have to be approved by Beijing, but this has been rejected by Tibetan leaders and several Western countries.

Tsering said Chinas actions along the LAC appear to be aimed at diverting attention from the countrys internal problems, including an economic downturn and growing dissent. He said: I dont understand Chinas mentality, what they did in Doklam, Tawang and Ladakh...In Ladakh, nothing grows in those mountains. No people live in those mountains. So why do you do this belligerence towards India?

China used its economic gains in past decades to splurge on the Belt and Road Initiative, but this only created dead economies and allowed Beijing to take over strategic assets such as Gwadar port in Pakistan and Hambantota port in Sri Lanka, he said. One has to be very strategic when dealing with China. I think the Indian government has taken a very strong position  that unless theres disengagement from all quarters, there wont be normalisation of relations, Tsering said.
Hong Kong: Choi Yuk-lin attends education forum

Secretary for Education Choi Yuk-lin today attended the launch symposium on the latest results of the Programme for International Student Assessment by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation & Development in Asia to discuss the way forward for education with representatives of the education sector from other regions.

At the symposium's panel discussion session held at the University of Tokyo in Japan, Ms Choi spoke about how Hong Kongs education system supports students learning and well-being, and pointed out that the Programme for International Student Assessment 2022 results had reaffirmed the merits of such an education system.

In terms of education equity, she noted Hong Kong ranked second among countries or economies with high academic achievements, indicating that the socio-economic status of Hong Kong students has minimal bearing on their performance.

She also told participants that the Education Bureau has been optimising the school curriculum and implementing various student development programmes to nurture pupils with positive thinking and strengthen their resilience. Additionally, the bureau assists schools in providing comprehensive student guidance and support services through the Whole School Approach and multidisciplinary collaboration.

To support students with mental health needs, the bureau has strengthened the promotion of home-school co-operation and parent education as well as cross-sectoral collaboration, Ms Choi added.

The bureau will continue to work with various stakeholders to create a support network and to foster an accepting and caring school culture for students, enhancing their physical and psychological well-being through concerted efforts.

Yesterday, the education chief paid a courtesy call on Japan-China Friendship Center President & Board Chairperson Masashi Ogawa. She also met Hong Kong students and youngsters in Japan to learn about their study and life experiences.

Ms Choi will pay a courtesy call on Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wu Jianghao and meet Saitama City Board of Education Superintendent Hideko Takei tomorrow. She will also observe class activities and tour the campus facilities of Saitama Municipal Omiya International Secondary School.

This story has been published on: 2023-12-06. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
India on Wednesday announced USD 1 million in immediate relief assistance to Papua New Guinea to help the island nation deal with damage and destruction caused by a volcanic eruption. Ash column rises from Mount Ulawun(REUTERS)

A major volcanic eruption of Mount Ulawun in Papua New Guinea has required the evacuation of more than 26,000 people and created urgent humanitarian needs in that region.

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The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said India extended deep sympathy to the government and the people of Papua New Guinea for the damage and destruction caused by the disaster.

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"As a close friend and development partner under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) and as a gesture of solidarity with the friendly people of Papua New Guinea, the government of India extends an immediate relief assistance to support relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in Papua New Guinea," it said.

The amount announced under the assistance is USD 1 million.

"India has firmly stood by Papua New Guinea during times of crisis and devastation caused by natural disasters, as in the wake of the earthquake in 2018 and volcanic eruption in 2019," the MEA said in a statement.

"Disaster Risk Reduction and Management is an important pillar of India's Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative (IPOI) announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2019," it said.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) wants all social media platforms to develop an in-app mechanism to report violations of Rule 3(1)(b) of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021, and to inform users how uploading content that violates this rule can attract punishment under other Indian laws. It also wants platforms to assist in identifying and enabling the prosecution of content violations. All social media platforms should develop anin-app mechanism to report violations as per Constitution, says IT ministry. (AP)

The minister of state for IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar communicated this to the major social media companies, telecom companies and device manufacturers in a follow-up meeting over the deepfakes issue on Tuesday.

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Many platforms are responding to the decisions taken last month and advisories on ensuring 100% compliance will be issued in the next 2 days, he tweeted after the meeting.

After the last meeting on November 24, Chandrasekhar said the ministry would appoint a nodal officer to look at platforms safe harbour status under Rule 7 who will also assist users to file FIRs. His presentation on Tuesday, however, said, Rule 7/Section 79 adjudication rule to be played by GAC [grievance appellate committee]. The IT Rules were amended in October 2022 to create three government-appointed GACs that would act as a tier of grievance redressal above the platforms own grievance officers. HT has seen a copy of this presentation.

Tuesdays meeting was attended by representatives from Meta, Google/YouTube, Snapchat, Sharechat, Koo, Telegram, Samsung, Jio, industry body NASSCOM, and at least one independent telecom expert. Chaired by Chandrasekhar, IT secretary S. Krishnan, and head of the IT ministrys cyber laws division, Dr Sandip Chatterjee, also attended the meeting.

Chandrasekhar wants the platforms community guidelines to map out how posting each of the eleven types of content described in rule 3(1)(b) would attract penalties and punishments under other laws such as the Indian Penal Code, Prevention of Money Laundering Act, Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act, Digital Personal Data Protection Act and Copyright Act, amongst others. He acknowledged that Koo had already done this mapping.

The ministry wants platforms to inform users of the legal actions they can take when the content they report is actually removed. In its presentation, the ministry listed Platform to actively assist in identifying & enabling prosecution of the violation of 3(1)(b), 3(1)(d) for discussion. This could involve filing FIRs against the person who uploaded the egregious content, or other remedies available under different laws.

Both Meta and YouTube argued against this. YouTube said that for certain kinds of content, such as child sexual abuse material, the decision to remove it is a no-brainer. To be sure, all platforms report CSAM to the USs National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) which then shares the data with relevant law enforcement agencies worldwide.

However, for other kinds of content, such as copyright violations, a legal mind needs to be applied and platforms cannot do that without endangering their safe harbour, the YouTube representative said. The representative also pointed out that if platforms help reporting users identify the users who posted the egregious content to pursue legal action, that would be a violation of the Puttaswamy judgment on the right to privacy.

The ministry took stock of which companies had submitted status reports on whether their community guidelines aligned with rule 3(1)(b) as per the discussion in the meeting on November 24. In its presentation, MeitY acknowledged that Telegram had submitted this status report while others were in the process of reviewing their guidelines. In its presentation, the ministry wrote, The 3(1)(b) list and hyperlink to the community guidelines are NOT provided by most platforms in their annual reminder emails.

Currently, when users report egregious content on social media platforms from within the app (using a report post or a report video option), it goes through automated content moderation for certain types of content and human moderation for others. If it is found to be violative of the platforms policies, it can be labelled, de-amplified, or removed, or the posting users account can be blocked temporarily or permanently, depending on the nature and severity of the violation.

In case the reported content is found to be non-violative, the reporting user is informed, who may then choose to give more context or escalate it by approaching the grievance officer, whose appointment is mandated under the IT Rules. None of the platforms allow users to approach the grievance officer from within the app. Users must write emails to the grievance officers.

If users are still not satisfied with the grievance officers response, they can file a complaint with one of the three government-appointed grievance appellate committees. To be sure, the process to file a complaint with GAC is completely digitised and in the complaint, the user is required to specify which particular provision of the IT Rules has been violated. In this process, the user never interacts with the GAC through video conference instead, the entirety of the users representation is made in his/her initial complaint to the GAC.

MeitY wants all content reports, whether through the in-app reporting system or emails to the grievance officer, to be treated as grievances. This is because the GACs reject complaints that have not been dealt with by the grievance officer first. Both Chandrasekhar and Krishnan, it is understood, said that if a users report is rejected by the content moderation system, human or automated, it should automatically be directed to the grievance officer so that the user can directly approach the GAC. They do not want the user to have to go back and forth with the platform before even getting to the grievance officer.

Multiple companies, including Meta, Sharechat, YouTube and Jio, argued against this suggestion. They pointed out that the grievance officer and/or the GACs will be flooded with complaints, HT has learnt. They also pointed out that in many cases, the companies need additional context from the user to make an informed decision on whether some content violates their policy.

A telecom policy expert who attended the meeting informed MeitY that a similar process was implemented with telcos in 2009, and it flooded with complaints, multiple people aware of the meetings proceedings told HT. Finally, the consumers lost out in the process.

One of the participants HT spoke to said such a process would cause accelerated takedowns. It will also allow the reporting system to be abused where the platforms will be compelled to take down content that is falsely reported to avoid flooding the grievance officer and to avoid falling within the governments crosshairs, this person said.

It is understood that a representative from Meta asked Chandrasekhar if this is how MeitY interpreted the IT Rules. Chandrasekhar said it could be made unambiguous for all by issuing amendments to the IT Rules, HT has learnt.
On December 3, after the electoral results of four assembly elections were announced  the Congress won Telangana, but received a drubbing in the Hindi heartland and failed to retain Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh; the Bharatiya Janata Party, in contrast, retained power in Madhya Pradesh and snatched majorities in the other two  questions began to be raised on the fate of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc. On Monday, the Congress announced that a meeting of leaders of parties was slated to take place on Wednesday, December 6 at the residence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.

However, after at least three non-Congress chief ministers and a former CM said that they would not be able to attend, a new meeting was announced for all heads of the 28-party grouping  this one, in the third week of December. Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Gurdip Singh Sappal edited his announcement on X (formerly Twitter) to state: "A coordination meeting of Parliamentary Party leaders of India Alliance will be at 6 pm on December 6th, 2023 at the residence of Congress President Sh. Mallikarjun Kharge. Thereafter, a meeting of Party Presidents/ Heads of the India Alliance will be scheduled in the third week of December at a date convenient to all". Heres what the main INDIA bloc leaders were doing on Wednesday:

Mamata Banerjee, Trinamool Congress

On December 4, at the ongoing winter session of the West Bengal assembly, chief minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee said that if INDIA coalition partners were able to share seats effectively, the BJP would stand no chance in the Lok Sabha elections.

Speaking to reporters later that evening she said that she was not aware of the December 6 meeting. Party sources later said that Banerjee would not be able to attend the meeting as she had other personal engagements.

Look at the figures. The BJP won by thin margins. It happened because of a split in (Opposition) votes. There should have been proper seat sharing, Banerjee said in the assembly.

On Tuesday, Banerjee attended the 29th Kolkata International Film Festival. She led Bollywood stars including Salman Khan, Shatrughan Sinha, Sonakshi Sinha and Saurav Ganguly, to the stage and even shook a leg with them during the festivals inauguration.

On Wednesday, the CM left for a week-long visit to north Bengal where she is scheduled to attend a slew of public programmes apart from a family wedding.

Nitish Kumar, Janata Dal (United)

Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar was down with a throat infection on the day of the results, but resumed his work on Tuesday and even attended the state cabinet meeting, where he offered his inputs felicitating Karpoori Thakur, the late socialist leader and former minister of the state.

Janata Dal (United) party national president Rajiv Ranjan alias Lalan Singh and water resources minister Sanjay Kumar Jha reached Delhi in advance to attend the INDIA bloc meeting that was eventually held on December 6 for the parliamentary party leaders. Nitish, however, on Wednesday reacted to election results and said that Congress had earlier won in these states but lost them this time around.

These things happen. Congress got a good number of votes but BJP won. In Telangana, Congress won. Congratulations to all. These things do not need discussion. I only wish that Opposition unites quickly, he said.

M K Stalin, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam

Soon after the results were declared  and the INDIA bloc meeting hurriedly called for Wednesday  Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief and Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin said that he would not be able to attend given the flooding and rains caused by Cyclone Michaung that made landfall on Tuesday.

However, sources close to the DMK said that the Congress' long-term ally and coalition partner in the UPA I and II regimes, is ostensibly weighing its options on the seat-sharing formula with the Congress for the 2024 parliamentary elections.

The Congress party's defeat in the Hindi heartland could be used to strike a tough bargain by the regional party to restrict the grant of seats to less than 10 in a 39-seat TN parliamentary contest  these subjects need to be discussed, and at the moment, the cyclone which has caused at least seven deaths in the state and affected over 40,000 persons who sought shelter in relief camps in the four worst affected districts, has taken centre stage.

A matter to be discussed, sources said, was the formation of a virtual bloc within INDIA with the Communist Party (Marxist) and TMC to corner the Congress and demand the status of an equal partnership for every member party of the opposition alliance. With the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam yet to strike a deal with the Congress in TN, the DMK has much to consider.

Sharad Pawar, Nationalist Congress Party and Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena (UBT)

Soon after BJPs victory in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh became clear on December 3, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar clarified that the results of the assembly polls would not affect the INDIA alliance. Pawar also said that all leaders from the alliance would meet in Delhi on December 6 to analyse the results and decide the future course of action.

Pawar, a Rajya Sabha member, reached New Delhi on Monday to participate in the winter session of Parliament. He declared that he would participate in the INDIA alliance meeting  however, he did not attend the meeting on December 6 after it was decided that other parliamentary leaders of the parties would attend on Wednesday. Instead, Pawar paid a courtesy visit to the Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar (chairperson of the Upper House). He, along with party colleagues, also paid tribute to Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar on Maha Parinirvana Diwas (death anniversary).

Meanwhile, speaking at a party function on the night the results were declared, Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray advised the Congress to introspect on its results, but his partys leaders said that Thackeray will go to Delhi to attend the meeting. On Tuesday, however, Thackeray inaugurated his renovated party office at Nariman Point and declared a march to Adanis office to raise concerns over the multi-crore Dharavi Redevelopment project. By that time, West Bengal chief minister Mamta Banerjee and other party leaders had said they would not be able to make it for the meeting, and Thackerays plan to visit Delhi was cancelled. On Wednesday, Thackeray visited Chaityabhumi in Dadar to pay tribute to Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar on his Mahaparinirvan Diwas (death anniversary).

Akhilesh Yadav, Samajwadi Party

Samajwadi Party (SP) national president stayed home on the day of the results. On Monday, he went to Varanasi for a day-long programme where he inaugurated the first office of a newly-floated political party  the National Equal Party (NEP)  and attended a rally with NEP founder president Shashi Pratap Singh (formerly of Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party). On the sidelines of the event, Akhilesh spoke to reporters and said: "The result came, arrogance shattered. The result has ended all ego. I hope there will be a way out in the coming time. Because it is important to save the democracy and constitution for the country."

"I want to say that our fight is long. To counter the strategy by which BJP is winning so many seats, discipline and complete preparation is necessary."

Commenting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement that the opposition parties tried to divide the society during the recent assembly election by demanding the caste census, Akhilesh Yadav said, The people, who are opposing the caste census don't understand poverty. These people should read the preface of the Mandal Commission (report). Akhilesh also attended a few weddings in Varanasi between Monday and Wednesday.
The Congresss impressive Telangana victory in this election cycle has been completely overshadowed by its losses in the states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The results have strengthened the BJPs position ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The Congress and its ideological fellow-travellers must answer some questions before they get back to the 2024 campaign. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at CWC meeting in Hyderabad (Twitter/@kharge)

A segment of the Congress leadership and the left-liberal commentariat continues to insist that democracy in India is increasingly coming under a squeeze. While one can always debate about what the ideal state of democracy is and whether it ever existed in India, the state of purely transactional electoral democracy seems to be absolutely fine even from the Congresss perspective. It has won the state of Telangana in this election cycle, and even though it has lost Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, its vote share  the best measure of popular support in an electoral democracy  in these three states is actually higher than what it is in Telangana. The Congresss problem is that the BJPs popular support is much higher than that its own in the states it has lost. Even before these elections, the Congress has been able to defeat the BJP in other state elections. Where the Congress party has failed completely in the post-2014 period is to get its own state governments re-elected.

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Thats anything but a sign of weak democracy.

The Congress partys top leadership, especially Rahul Gandhi, seems to have reached a conclusion that the best way to revive the partys fortunes in 2024 is to resurrect Mandal politics (read: other backward classes consolidation). The only state where the Congress has won in this election cycle is where it had fought the polls with a dominant caste (Reddy) face, whereas it has lost power in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh where its incumbent chief ministers were OBCs.

One of the Congresss running criticisms of the BJP has been that the party is pro-rich and anti-poor especially anti-farmer. And yet, the biggest reason the Congress has not been able to hold on to its Chhattisgarh victory of 2018 seems to be a course-correction by the BJP to announce a bonus over and above the minimum support price (MSP) for paddy farmers in the state.

Another of the Congresss running refrains, not exactly untrue, is that it faces a huge political finance deficit vis-a-vis the BJP. In Madhya Pradesh, the Congress entrusted its battle to one of the richest politicians not just in the Congress party but perhaps the whole of India. In fact, there is good reason to believe that Kamal Naths ticket to Congresss leadership in the state was only because of his financial clout. And yet, he could not preserve his 2018 government and has failed to defeat the BJP despite the latter being in power for almost two decades.

One could highlight more such contradictions in what the Congress party claims, and what is exactly harming or helping its political prospects in the country today, but these illustrations are adequate to make larger a point.

Which is simply this: it is not Indian democracy which is letting down the Congress, but the Congress leadership which is letting down the cause of democratic competition in what increasingly looks like a BJP-dominated polity in India. And unless the Congress leadership gets its act together, this will not change.

Let us elaborate on this a bit more.

Contrary to the BJPs call of Congress-mukt Bharat after 2014, the Congress is far from dead in the country. In fact, there is good reason to argue that Congress has ceded more political ground in India in the period before 2014 than after 2014. It continues to be the major challenger to the BJP in states such as Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Assam, Karnataka, and perhaps even Maharashtra. That is almost 200 out of the 543 Lok Sabha seats in the country. Simply speaking, the Congress is the biggest challenger to the BJP in the country. In all of these states except Assam, the Congress has managed to either defeat or come very close to defeating the BJP (2017 Gujarat, 2019 Haryana) in state elections since 2014.

But these performances have not been sustained, the political capital frittered away  and the learnings from these experiences have been more mechanical than organic. So, what the Congress has, instead of a protracted struggle and evolving strategy against the BJP, is a string of losses with some irreversible damage (Madhya Pradesh results have proved that Jyotiradtiya Scindias departure is one such) with some flash-in-the-pan victories thrown in.

What does the Congress need to do in order to get its act together? Three things can be listed here.

The first one applies to Rahul Gandhi, who notwithstanding his official position in the party continues to be the most important person as far as its political line is concerned. Perhaps he needs to realise that the Congress requires a national political narrative over and above class and communal harmony. There is good reason to believe that voters of this country, overwhelmingly Hindu and poor, are interested in the nation-building narrative Narendra Modi and the BJP is selling them  which means they are either indifferent, or downright irritated when the Congress or its biggest leader ridicules this without making any substantive points. Political power in Delhi cannot be conquered without fortifications at the level of states of the sort that Modi created in Gujarat. This would require far more careful and perseverant engagement with state-level issues, governance and party organisation (or factionalism) than Gandhi currently seems to be doing.

The second issue applies to the leadership of the Congress party in states where it is either in power or still has a shot at it against the BJP. These leaders  most of them are in their 70s  need to realise that the nature of political challenge confronting them has changed drastically in the post-2014 period. They are not fighting against a state-level party backed by local politicians and contradictions but are faced with the might of a hegemonic force whose top leadership has unsatiated appetite for power and unparalleled attention for even the smallest issues which can affect political outcomes.

At one level, these leaders are trapped in the past, and the old ways. At another, their presence has robbed the next-generation leadership of the party of oxygen.

While it is very unlikely that the Congresss sharp politicians cannot see this writing on the wall, whether or not they will do something to solve this depends on a different question. Are state-level leaders of the Congress such as Ashok Gehlot or Digvijaya Singh and Kamal Nath or even Siddaramaiah more interested in the spoils (not necessarily money) which political power brings at a personal level (the party just being a means to achieve it) or are they committed to the larger ideological battle their party faces today?

The third lesson is relevant for each and every worker of the Congress party. There is good reason to believe that there are still hundreds of thousands if not millions of such activists. They need to guard against two kinds of people who are either close or seen as close to their leadership and the party.

The first are the political nihilists who keep telling them that Hindi speakers are not voting for the Congress because they are bigots and Congresss confinement to the southern states should be seen as some kind of badge of honour. This lots engagement with politics, crudely speaking, is comparable to disenfranchised socialites and their political stakes are next to zero. They should be avoided like the plague. If the Congress party has to survive, it must rebuild its appeal in the Hindi belt.

The second are the proverbial snake-oil sellers who keep offering silver bullets to their party leadership. Any political activist who has their ears to the ground knows that politics in India and the BJPs current success is too complicated for the latter to be dislodged by just one issue, whether its Rafale or Hindutva or Adani or even caste census. The Congress partys cadre needs to tell its leadership that they need to work with the rank and file of the party in the spirit of fighting a long and difficult but sincere battle than be in a vicious cycle where every loss makes the Congresss visible leadership look more bitter and the partys invisible organisation more broken.

(Roshan Kishores Friday column Terms of Trade appears in HT Premium)
The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) has successfully brought back the propulsion module of Chandrayaan-3 from the lunar orbit into the Earths orbit, establishing its capabilities of not just sending but also bringing back objects safely to Earth in preparation of its return lunar missions in the future. Indian Space Research Organisation released an image of the Chandrayaan-3 Vikram Lander as its Propulsion Module (PM) moved from an orbit around the moon to an orbit around Earth in another unique experiment, on Tuesday (ISRO-X/ANI)

Chandrayaan-3s propulsion module (PM) takes a successful detour. In another unique experiment, the PM is brought from lunar orbit to Earths orbit. An orbit-raising manoeuvre and a trans-Earth injection manoeuvre placed PM in an Earth-bound orbit, the agency said in a statement issued on Tuesday.

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According to senior scientists from Isro, this is the second experiment conducted on the sidelines of the primary Chandrayaan-3 mission, after the hop experiment on September 3, which tested Indias capabilities and systems for lunar missions to bring back samples to Earth. These experiments will also form the basis of sending humans to the moon and bringing them back safelya mission recently approved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and expected to happen by 2040.

Bonus experiment

Scientists said neither of the two experiments was part of the primary mission plan, although the agency was clear it would do them if all other aspects of the mission went off successfully.

Once all the primary mission objectives were achieved, we felt that we had a great opportunity to test out our systems for the upcoming projects. That is why we went about conducting the hop experiment. We did not expect propulsion module to have enough fuel to be brought back . This is an extremely significant milestone for our teams to help plan for subsequent lunar missions, said a senior Isro scientist who asked not to be named.

The main objective of the propulsion module was to ferry the lander (Vikram) module from geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO) to the final lunar polar circular orbit and separate the lander. According to the original plan, the plan was to operate Spectro-polarimetry of Habitable Planet Earth (SHAPE)--the payload on-board PM for about three months during which pictures and observations from the Moons orbit were to be analysed.

The precise orbit injection and optimal Earth and lunar burn manoeuvres resulted in over 100kg of reserve fuel remaining in the PM after over one month of operations in the lunar orbit. It was decided to use this fuel in the PM to derive additional information for future lunar missions and demonstrate the mission operation strategies for a sample return mission, the official cited above added.

How was it done?

Officials explained that bringing the PM to the Earths orbit was done using a series of manoeuvres, similar to the ones conducted for sending the lander and rover modules to the Moon.

Isro documents show that the first manoeuvre was performed on October 9, to raise the apolune (the point at which a spacecraft in lunar orbit is furthest from the moon) altitude to 5112km from 150kmincreasing the period of orbit from 2.1 hours to 7.2 hours.

The space agency then went on to perform a trans-Earth injection (TEI) manoeuvre on October 13, which set the PM on a trajectory to enter Earths sphere of influence. Isro added in its statement that after TEI, the PM made four fly-bys before it exited the Moons sphere of influence on November 10.

Currently, the propulsion module is orbiting Earth and crossed its first perigee on November 22, with an altitude of 1.54 lakhs km. The orbit period is nearly 13 days with 27-degree inclination. The perigee (the point in the orbit of the moon or a satellite at which it is nearest to the earth) and apogee altitude vary during its trajectory and the predicted minimum perigee altitude is 1.15 lakhs km. Hence, as per current orbit prediction, there is no threats of close approach with any operational Earth orbiting satellites, the agency added.

Why is it significant?

Senior officials said that it was for the first time that the space agency has conducted a gravity assist fly-by not around Earth but around another celestial body. In simpler terms, this process uses the gravity of a celestial object to move or slingshot a spacecraft to follow a certain pathin this case from the Moon to Earth.

The Indian space agency relies on this method to save fuel and make its missions more cost effective. It was because of this method that the trip of the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft took over 40 days.

Isro also said that by bringing the propulsion module back, it has also been able to avoid its uncontrolled crashing on the Moons surface at its end of life, avoiding unnecessary space debris.

In its latest plan submitted to the ministry of science and technology, Isro detailed Chandrayaan-3 follow-up missions, where the space body aims to test its systems for docking and robotics, plan sample returns and long duration missions, and also conduct in-situ resource utilisation.

The tests performed on the sidelines of Chandrayaan-3 missionthe return of PM and the hop experimentare among the first steps to achieving these objectives.

The data that we gathered from Chandrayaan-3 experiments and from the Gaganyaan missions, will make our systems better in the future and we will be able to send the first Indian to the Moon by 2040, as directed by the Prime Minister, said S Somanath, chairperson, Isro.
Armed Forces Flag Day 2023: The armed forces of the country are our strength. They stand at the borders and put their lives in the line to ensure that the countrymen have a good sleep. They fight the enemies with bravery and valour and sometimes become martyrs just to serve the nation. Portraying their love for the country, the armed forces prioritise the country and the people before anything else, even their own lives. Every year, Armed Forces Flag Day is celebrated to collect funds for the betterment of the forces and pay our respects to the ones who laid their lives while protecting the country. Armed Forces Flag Day 2023: Date, history, significance(Unsplash)

As we gear up to celebrate the special day for this year, here are a few things that we must keep in mind about Armed Forces Flag Day.

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Date:

Every year, Armed Forces Flag Day is celebrated on December 7. This year, the special day falls on Thursday.

History:

On August 28, 1949, the Ministry of Defence announced that December 7 will be celebrated as Armed Forces Flag Day to honour the soldiers, sailors and airmen. It also urges people to collect funds for providing for the betterment of the armed forces by selling badges and stickers. On this day, people come together to explore rehabilitation options for war victims and well-being of ex-servicemen personnel.

Significance:

People come together on this day to sell coupon flags, stickers, and other items all over the country to gather funds for the betterment of the armed forces. The solvers, sailors and airmen of the country put their lives in line to keep us safe. We should ensure that we do out bit to thank them for their contribution. On this day, people pay respects to the martyrs, and assist in providing welfare and support to the men in army, navy and air force of the country.
Thailand's tourism bureau estimates nearly 1.5 million fewer visitors from China in 2023 than had originally been expected at the beginning of the year. Changing travel trends and economic problems in China are to blame. Chinese tourist arrivals in Thailand are set to be lower than forecast in 2023, according to estimates by the Thai tourism bureau. Thailand had expected a bump in tourist arrivals from China following the reopening of borders after the coronavirus pandemic. The tourism bureau initially predicted 5 million visitors from China in 2023. However, arrivals from China before December numbered around 3 million, and the year-end total is now estimated to be around 3.5 million visitors. There are fewer Chinese tourists in Bangkok's Chinatown this year(Tommy Walker/DW)

Changing trends in Chinese tourism

Vincent Zhuang, a journalist from China and former editor at the Robb Report, a luxury-lifestyle magazine, said Chinese travel trends are changing. "The Chinese tourist has changed a lot," Zhuang told DW. He added that Chinese tourists are traveling more domestically as air fares and hotel prices remain high elsewhere in Asia. "There are many choices in China both for luxury and economy tourists," he said.

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China's economic problems, which includes a real estate crisis, a worsening job market and record-high youth unemployment, also contribute to people thinking twice about traveling overseas. With spending power being reduced, the number of international flights connecting China to Thailand is still not back to pre-pandemic levels, officials say.

Chinatown in Bangkok is a hot spot for international tourists, with bustling food stalls, authentic Chinese dishes, and bright neon-lit signs. Masses of tourists from mainland China are often seen in group tours roaming these streets. However, shop owners and market vendors in Bangkok's Chinatown told DW that the number of Chinese tourists this year is lower than before. In another popular tourist location, the island of Phuket in southern Thailand, hotel bookings from China are also lower than anticipated.

"China pre-pandemic used to be one of our top countries  I think almost 18% to 20% of our business was coming from China, heavily dependent on tour groups," said Ranjeet Viswanathan, director of sales & marketing at the Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort. "But right now, China makes up for about 5% of my business," he told DW.

Thailand's image problem in China?

In a shooting at the Siam Paragon shopping mall in Bangkok in September, three people were killed including one Chinese national. The news of the shooting led to around 60,000 Chinese tourists canceling their trips to Thailand, according to Thai officials. And the Chinese blockbuster movie "No More Bets," which was released in August, did not paint Thailand in a positive light.

The movie tells the story of Chinese citizens who are tricked into taking a work trip overseas only to be forced into operating illegal gambling and cryptocurrency scams in an unnamed Southeast Asian country. But indirect references to Thailand are present in the film, such as one scene showing a road sign named "Sukhumvit," which is a well-known district in Bangkok. The movie was seen as a reminder of incessant telecom scams in China.

Thailand works on attracting Chinese tourists

Nithee Seeprae, deputy governor at the Tourism Authority of Thailand admitted more work needs to be done to show that Thailand welcomes Chinese arrivals. "According to our travel partners in China, tourists still trust in Thailand as a safe destination. But maybe we'll have to coordinate with Chinese influencers, and the Chinese influencer network in Thailand," he told DW. The Thai government has also tried to make it easier for Chinese visitors to enter Thailand.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced in September that Chinese tourists can enter Thailand from mainland China for 30 days, without requiring a visa up until the end of February. "The measure is long overdue if Thailand wants to attract more Chinese visitors," said Gary Bowerman, an Asia tourism analyst based in Malaysia.

It's clear Thailand is trying desperately hard to re-coup the benefits of Chinese tourism, which has been a boost to its economy. Thailand's tourist economy accounted for 11.5% of the country's overall GDP in 2019. Of the record 39 million foreign arrivals that year, over 11 million were Chinese visitors. But following the pandemic in 2022, Thailand welcomed just 11 million international visitors, with China only accounting for 273,567 of those arrivals.

With 3.5 million Chinese arrivals estimated to visit for 2023, Thai officials have predicted a stronger recovery from the Chinese market, forecasting over double the amount to over 8 million arrivals in 2024. However, Bowerman told DW that existing factors this year could still contribute to obstacles for Chinese tourism to return to previous levels next year.

This year "has proved to be a very tricky year to forecast Chinese outbound demand for Southeast Asian destinations like Thailand," he said. "Thailand will be hoping for more stable and predictable demand patterns for Chinese arrivals, and overall growth is expected in 2024," he added. "However, forecasting a precise figure at the moment, with airlines nervous about adding back capacity, is a bit like waving your finger in the wind," said tourism analyst Bowerman.
Bengaluru-based real estate developer Puravankara Limiteds community housing arm, Provident Housing Limited, is expected to launch 5.8 mn sq ft of inventory worth 3,800 crore by end of the fiscal in markets such as Bengaluru, Kochi, and Chennai, the companys chief executive officer Mallanna Sasalu said on December 6. Provident Housing CEO Mallanna Sasalu.

The company has launched inventory worth 1,300 crore so far in North Bengaluru this year, spread across 1.6 mn sq ft.

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The company had announced that it intends to come up with five housing projects valued at over 3,800 crore by the end of the financial year. It has so far launched two projects in North Bengaluru. The remaining three projects are expected to be launched in Bengaluru (Q3FY24), Chennai (Q4FY24), and Kochi (Q4FY24).

The five projects are expected to be completed in the next three to five years, he said.

He told reporters that there are no plans to foray into Delhi-NCR. We are not exploring more cities, he said.

He said that the definition of affordable housing has changed as land costs have gone up. Provident Housing constructs homes in the budget of 45 lakh to 1.2 crore.

Asked to react to the news that the company is in talks with HDFC Capital Advisors to secure more than 1,000 crore for expansion, he said that Nothing has been concluded so far and that the company is currently in talks with seven to eight investors.

To a question on whether the company has plans to be listed independently, he said that "it is premature to discuss the issue. We are in the process of building the business to larger possibilities. Anything is possible at the appropriate time."

Provident Housing currently has projects spread across an area of 12.5 mn sq ft under construction and contributes around 50 percent to the Puravankara Group. In 2020, the IFC Emerging Asia Fund invested close to $76 million in Puravankara Group to ramp up its affordable housing projects in the country.
Dr Akshata Krishnamurthy became the first Indian citizen to command a rover mission on Mars. She has now taken to Instagram to share her inspiring journey of getting into MIT and landing a job at Nasa. Dr Krishnamurthy shared that she came to the United States 13 years ago with a dream to work at Nasa and worked hard to make her dream come true. Dr Akshata Krishnamurthy came to United States 13 years ago with a dream to work at Nasa. (Instagram/@astro.akshata)

I came to the United States a little over 13 years ago with almost nothing but a dream to work at NASA and lead breakthrough science and robotic operations on Earth and Mars. Everyone I met told me that this was impossible as a foreign national on a visa and that I should either have a plan B or change my field completely. Im glad that I didnt listen to anyone. I persevered until I found a way! she recalled in an Instagram post.

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In the next few lines, the rocket scientist shared that she obtained a PhD from MIT and landed a job at Nasa. She added, From getting my PhD at MIT to knocking 100s of doors to get hired full-time at Nasa, nothing came easy. Today, I work on multiple cool space missions, including the Perseverance rover, collecting samples to bring back to Earth.

No dream is ever too big or crazy. Believe in yourself, keep those blinkers on and keep working! I promise, youll get there if you work hard. My goal is to inspire and motivate 1 Million people to dream big and live their best lives, she concluded.

Watch the video here:

The video was shared six days ago on Instagram. It has since accumulated over 3.5 million views, and the numbers are still increasing. Many even took to the comments section of the post to share their thoughts.

Check out how people reacted to the tweet:

Step 1) get an American passport. Step 2) Get a job in NASA :D (kidding, congrats though), posted an individual.

Another added, Women like you are an inspiration to the aspiring female youth leaders!

PhD from MIT and work at Nasa, damn, expressed a third.

A fourth commented, Thats wonderful. Proud of you!

Huge congratulations sister, so proud of you, shared a fifth.

A sixth joined, You are an inspiration for all.
Elon Musk said on Wednesday his artificial intelligence company xAI was not raising funds "right now", a day after the startup filed with the U.S. securities regulator to raise up to $1 billion in an equity offering. Elon Musk(REUTERS)

The company has raised $134.7 million in equity financing from a total offering amount of $1 billion, the filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission showed on Tuesday.

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Replying to a post on X by Deepwater Asset Management's Gene Munster regarding the financing, Musk said: "We are not raising money right now".

ALSO READ| Israeli army finds major Gaza weapons depot: 'Was near a clinic and school'

Munster's post had said the fundraising meant Musk wanted to compete with OpenAI and Anthropic.

Reuters could not independently verify if the startup is currently raising funds or not.

Investments into AI-linked startups have surged this year following chatbot ChatGPT's success and its parent OpenAI's $10 billion fundraise from Microsoft.

Musk launched xAI in July this year in response to Big Tech's AI efforts, which he has criticized for excessive censorship and a lack of adequate safety measures.
Israel witnessed one of the most horrific terror attacks on its soil on October 7, when Hamas terrorists massacred innocent civilians, beheaded babies and raped women by infiltrating into the southern part of the country. The attacks took place on a Jewish holiday when people were celebrating the Nova festival. Hamas terrorist cadre in Gaza(File photo)

(Warning: Story contains description of sexual violence and rape)

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Israel has talked about the sexual violence perpetrated against Israeli women by Hamas. A report by BBC explores how women were brutally targeted during the attacks and suffered the worst form of violence including rape.

The report details account of a woman witness who says she saw Hamas sexually assaulting Israeli women of all ages during the attacks. The woman known as Witness S alleged that the Hamas terrorists gang raped a woman and mutilated her. The witness shared that the victim was alive when the attackers raped her.

The witness highlighted how the attackers mutilated the victim's body during the sexual assault. She revealed that Hamas terrorists cut off the victim's breast and threw it on the street.

The woman also revealed that Hamas attackers shot the victim in the head while raping her.

In the report, another person recalled the inhuman incidents that unfolded during the October 7 attack.

"Some women were raped before they were dead, some raped while injured, and some were already dead when the terrorists raped their lifeless bodies. I desperately wanted to help, but there was nothing I could do," the man said.

Israel's women's empowerment minister May Golan has revealed that some women survived the rape and attacks but they are extremely traumatised. Golan revealed that the survivors are undergoing psychiatric treatment.

"But very, very few. The majority were brutally murdered. They aren't able to talk - not with me, and not to anyone from the government [or] from the media," Golan said talking about the survivors.
A 26-year-old Indian man has died after his car crashed and rolled several times here in Australia and his wife has appealed for help to send his remains back to his parents in India, according to a media report. Emergency services promptly responded, attempting to revive Singh, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Khusdeep Singh was driving along Palmers Road at around 11.15 pm on Monday when his vehicle crossed the median strip and rolled several times in southwest Melbourne, Wyndham TV reported.

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Emergency services promptly responded, attempting to revive Singh, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, authorities are considering fatigue as a potential factor.

To send her husbands remains back to his parents in India, Singhs wife, Japneet Kour, an international student who arrived in Australia last year, has initiated a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe.

She shared that her husband worked as a truck driver in Melbourne and was known for his positive outlook on life.

Kour is reaching out for donations, big or small, to support the cause and has urged people to share the fundraiser widely.

In her plea, she expressed gratitude for the support and condolences received during this heartbreaking time.

Investigations into the details of the crash are ongoing.

In November, five members of two Indian families in Australia, including two children, were killed when a luxury SUV ploughed into a packed outdoor dining area of a pub in Melbourne.
A Tehran court has ordered the US government to pay nearly $50 billion in damages for assassinating a top Iranian general nearly four years ago, the judiciary said on Wednesday. Top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani was killed in a US strike.(AP )

Then-US president Donald Trump ordered a drone strike near Baghdad airport that killed General Qasem Soleimani, 62, and his Iraqi lieutenant Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis on January 3, 2020.

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Days later, Iran retaliated by firing missiles at bases in Iraq housing American and other coalition troops. No US personnel were killed but Washington said dozens suffered traumatic brain injuries.

The Iranian judiciary's Mizan Online news agency said that a Tehran court had sentenced the US government to pay $49.7 billion in "material, moral and punitive damages" after a lawsuit filed by more than 3,300 Iranians.

The court found 42 individuals and legal persons guilty, including Trump, the US government, former secretary of state Mike Pompeo and former defense secretary Mark Esper, Mizan added.

Soleimani commanded the Quds Force, the foreign operations arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

He was one of the country's most popular public figures who spearheaded Iran's Middle East operations and was seen as a hero of the 1980-88 Iran-Iraq war.

Iranian courts have now handed down several rulings against the United States.

Last month an Iranian court ordered the US government to pay $420 million in compensation to victims of an abortive 1980 operation to free hostages held at the US embassy.

In August, a Tehran court demanded Washington pay $330 million in damages for "planning a coup" in 1980 against the fledgling Islamic republic.

Those suits follow a series of multi-billion-dollar compensation rulings against Tehran by US courts.

In 2016, the US Supreme Court ordered that Iranian assets frozen in the United States should be paid to victims of attacks Washington has blamed on Tehran, including the 1983 bombing of a US Marine barracks in Beirut and a 1996 blast in Saudi Arabia.

Tehran denies all responsibility for the attacks.

It has appealed to international justice to help unlock funds of several Iranian individuals and companies that have been frozen by Washington.

In March the International Court of Justice ruled that Washington's freezing of funds was "manifestly unreasonable".

But it ruled it had no jurisdiction to unblock nearly $2 billion in Iranian central bank assets frozen by the United States.

Iran and Washington have had no diplomatic relations since the aftermath of the 1979 revolution.
Turkey rejects plans to establish a post-war buffer zone in Gaza because it would be disrespectful to Palestinians, Recep Tayyip Erdogan said after it was reported that Israel had conveyed plans for the buffer zone to several Arab states including Turkey. Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Gaza's governance and future after the war would be decided by Palestinians alone and not by anyone else. Israel-Hamas War: Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan.(Reuters)

"I consider even the debating of this (buffer-zone) plan as disrespectful to my Palestinian siblings. For us, this is not a plan that can be debated, considered, or discussed," Recep Tayyip Erdogan said as per news agency Reuters.

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Calling for Israel to hand back territories it occupies and end settlements in those territories, the Turkish president said, "Israel must remove the terrorists - which it markets to the world as settlers - from those houses and those lands, and think about how it can build a peaceful future with Palestinians."

This comes after Turkey sharply criticised Israel's military campaign in Gaza as Ankara reiterated support for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict. Turkey also hosted some members of the Hamas as unlike most of its NATO allies and some Arab states, it does not view Hamas as a terrorist group.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Israel had become the West's spoiled child and blamed Western support for Israel for the situation in Gaza. On reports of Israeli officials wanting to hunt down Hamas members in other countries, he said carrying out such a operation in Turkey would have "very serious" consequences.

"In the event they carry out such a mistake, they should know that they will pay the price for this very, very heavily," he said.
Israel's military said Wednesday it had found a major arms depot "in the heart of a civilian population" in Gaza, and seized or destroyed missiles, grenades, drones and other weapons. Representational picture(REUTERS)

"One of the largest weapons depots in the Gaza Strip was found near a clinic and school" in the north of the Palestinian territory, a statement said.

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"The depot contained hundreds of RPG missiles and launchers of various types, dozens of anti-tank missiles, dozens of explosive devices, long-range missiles aimed at central Israel, dozens of grenades and UAVs," it continued.

"Some were destroyed on-site and some were sent for further investigation."

ALSO READ| Watch: Israeli girl meets her friends after release from Hamas captivity

Israel launched a major ground campaign in Gaza after weeks of bombardments following Hamas's October 7 attack.

The attack killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and another 240 were taken back into Gaza as hostages, Israeli officials say.

The latest toll from the Hamas government's media office said 16,248 people had been killed in Gaza since the start of Israel's campaign, most of them women and children.

In its statement on Wednesday, the army called the discovery of the weapons depot "additional proof of Hamas' cynical use of the residents of the Gaza Strip as human shields".
Italy has officially informed China that it is quitting the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), two government sources told Reuters on Wednesday, ending months of doubt over Rome's future in the ambitious project. Chinas Belt and Road Initiative. (Shutterstock)

Italy in 2019 became the first and so far only major Western nation to join the programme, dismissing concerns from the United States that it would enable China to gain get control of sensitive technologies and vital infrastructure.

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However, when Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni took office last year, she said she wanted to withdraw from the deal, which is modelled on the old Silk Road that linked China to the West, saying it had brought no significant gains to Italy.

The 2019 accord expires in March 2024 and would have been automatically renewed unless Rome gave at least three months' written warning that it was pulling out.

A government source said Beijing had been given a letter "in recent days" informing the Chinese government that Italy would not be renewing the pact.

"We have every intention of maintaining excellent relations with China even if we are no longer part of the Belt and Road Initiative," a second government source said.

"Other G7 nations have closer relations with China than we do, despite the fact they were never in (the BRI)," he added.

Italy will assume the presidency of the G7 in 2024.
Over the past 18 months, suspected Russian spies have been unearthed in Europe, from the Netherlands to Norway and Sweden to Slovenia. Many have something in common: a link to the Americas. The arrests show that Latin America remains, as it was in the Cold War, a springboard for Russian spies who go on to snoop around the United States and Europe.

Consider Victor Muller Ferreira, a Brazilian man who arrived in The Hague in April 2022 to take up an internship at the International Criminal Court, only to be promptly deported. He was alleged to be Sergey Vladimirovich Cherkasov, an illegalan intelligence officer working under a false identity, rather than under diplomatic coverof the GRU, Russias military intelligence service.

Other suspects tumbled out of the closet. Norway arrested Jose Assis Giammaria, a Brazilian academic who had graduated from a Canadian university that October. He was Mikhail Mikushin, also a GRU officer. In December Slovenia rounded up Maria Mayer and Ludwig Gisch, an Argentine couple in Slovenia who were really members of the SVR, Russias foreign spy agency. In January Gerhard Daniel Campos Wittich, an Austrian-Brazilian living in Rio de Janeiro, vanished. He was a Mr Shmyrev and married secretly to Irina Shmyrev, another GRU officer, who herself posed as Maria Tsalla, a Mexican woman in Athens.

Russian spies have long viewed the Americas as a good place to launder, ie, build up a false identity for, such deep-cover officers. Konon Molody enjoyed a successful espionage career in Britain as Gordon Lonsdale, ostensibly a Canadian businessman, from 1953 to 1961. When the United States identified a dozen illegals in 2010, one claimed to be a Uruguayan-born Peruvian and four others Canadians.

For many years, Canada was the place to go to get a passport, says Kevin Riehle of Brunel University in London, who spent much of his career as a counter-intelligence analyst at the FBI. The countrys passports were not only simple to acquire but also allowed easy travel to the United States and Europe. Canada also lacked centralised record-keeping, explains Stephanie Carvin of Carleton University in Ottawa, making it easy to assume the identity of dead Canadian babies.

Canada was later shamed into strengthening its passport security, making it harder to get fake identities and pushing Russia to look to the south, says Mr Riehle. That is probably why were seeing so many Latin American [illegals] now. Latin Americas higher levels of corruption are also part of the appeal. Mr Cherkasov boasted of bribing a Brazilian, thought to be a local official, with a $400 necklace to acquire citizenship, a birth certificate and a driving licenceall without providing any identification documents.

Latin America is also attractive to snoops based at a Russian embassyin a rezidentura in espionage argot. That is because the region is full of Americansofficials and otherswhose activities the Russians want to know about. Theres a rich target pool, says Duyane Norman, who was the CIAs chief of operations for Latin America. General Glen VanHerck, the head of Americas Northern Command, observed last year that Mexico has more GRU members than any other foreign country.

It is also possible for Russian intelligence officers to operate in Latin America with less scrutiny than in Europe or the United States. Ten to 20 years ago, says Mr Norman, that was largely because local intelligence services, with some exceptions, were poorly resourced and unsophisticated. Technology has made them more capable. Even smaller and poorer services, says Mr Norman, can use cheap or publicly available tools to conduct pretty sophisticated counter-intelligence operations.

But they may not use them to root out Russian spies. Many Latin American services have an attitude of benign neglect towards Russian skulduggery. Brazils police eventually investigated Mr Cherkasovs activities and co-operated with the United States, handing over his electronic gear. But the government refused an American request to extradite the Russian and slashed his sentence from 15 to five years. Argentine and Brazilian intelligence are politicised, with senior intelligence officers often replaced when new governments take office.

For both practical and ideological reasons neither country wants to pick a quarrel with Russia. Brazil gets around a fifth of its fertiliser from Russia, for example. Argentina gets a tenth. Many Latin American governments do not share the United States view of Russia as a geopolitical villain. Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Brazils president, has accused Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, of being as responsible as Putin for the war in Ukraine.

The problem could soon get worse. Last year more than 600 suspected Russian intelligence officers were expelled from embassies in Europe. Many are already turning up across Latin America.

 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai compared restrictions that the Taliban has placed on women in Afghanistan to the treatment of Black people under apartheid. Speaking during the 21st Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture in Johannesburg, Malala Yousafzai said, If you are a girl in Afghanistan, the Taliban has decided your future for you. You cannot attend a secondary school or university. You cannot find an open library where you can read. You see your mothers and your older sisters confined and constrained, Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai speaks during the 21st Nelson Mandela Annual Peace Lecture.(Reuters)

Malala Yousafzai survived being shot in the head when she was 15 in Pakistan by a gunman after campaigning against the Pakistani Taliban's moves to deny girls education. She won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014.

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Taliban's actions should be considered "gender apartheid" and that it had in effect ... made girlhood illegal, she said, asserting that international actors should not normalise relations with the Taliban.

Since returning to power in 2021, the Taliban has stopped most Afghan female staff from working at aid agencies, closed beauty salons, barred women from parks and curtailed travel for women without a male guardian.

Malala Yousafzai said she was concerned the Taliban would take away sciences and critical thinking even from boys.

"It's so important for the international community to not only step up to protect access to education for girls but also ensure that it is quality education, it is not indoctrination," she said. On Israel's war in Gaza, she said that she wanted to see an immediate ceasefire so that children could return to school and normal lives.

We look at wars, ... especially the bombardment that has happened in Gaza, ... that has just taken that normal life away from children, she said.
South Korean police are investigating whether a North Korean hacker group, accused of stealing data from 14 entities, obtained information on defence technology including an anti-aircraft laser, a Seoul city police official said on Wednesday. Local media reported this week that the cache of data included key South Korean defence secrets.(Representational)

The probe, which is being carried out in conjunction with the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), is trying to determine the extent of the data obtained by the group known as Andariel, Jeong Jin-ho, who heads a team at the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency investigating the case, told Reuters.

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The U.S. Department of the Treasury in 2019 listed Andariel as a North Korean state-sponsored hacking group, focused on conducting malicious cyber operations on foreign businesses, government agencies and the defence industry.

Local media reported this week that the cache of data included key South Korean defence secrets.

The entities targeted included South Korean defence firms, research institutes and pharmaceutical companies, an earlier police statement said. Some 250 files, or 1.2 terabytes of information and data, were taken by the hackers, it said.

A proxy server set up by the group was accessed in a district of the North Korean capital Pyongyang 83 times between last December and March, police said.

The server was used to access the websites of the firms and institutions, with the group taking advantage of a South Korean hosting service that rents servers to unidentified clients.

The group also extorted 470 million won ($357,866) worth of bitcoin from three South Korean and foreign firms in ransomware attacks, police said.

North Korean hackers have been blamed for cyberattacks netting millions of dollars, though Pyongyang previously has denied being involved in cybercrime.

A foreign woman was being investigated in connection with the ransomware attacks after some of the bitcoin were transferred through her bank account and withdrawn at a bank in China, police said. She has denied any wrongdoing.
Pope Francis said that he was feeling much better after a two-week bout of bronchitis as he asked an aide to read his remarks. The pope, who turns 87 o December 17, told his weekly general audience that he still gets tired if he speaks too much. Pope Francis came down with the flu on November 25 and was forced to cancel a planned trip to Dubai to participate in the UN climate conference. The Vatican said that he had been diagnosed with an acute case of infectious bronchitis that made breathing difficult. Pope Francis Health: Pope Francis leads the weekly general audience, in Paul VI hall at the Vatican City.(Reuters)

This is the second time this year that the pope has had a serious case of bronchitis. Earlier, he was hospitalized for three days to receive intravenous antibiotics. Pope Francis, explaining why he would ask his aide to read his remarks, said, Im much better, but I get tired if I speak too much.

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He then made a brief appeal asking for prayers for all those who are suffering from war, including people in Ukraine, Israel and Gaza.

War is always a defeat. No one wins, everyone loses. The only ones who win are the weapons makers," he said.

The Vatican has confirmed Pope Francis would participate in his annual visit to pray before a statue of the Virgin Mary at Rome's Piazza di Spagna this week to mark an important Catholic feast day.
Prince Harry is now officially fighting for police protection in London. The trial, which will last for three days, started in Harrys birth country on Tuesday, December 5. The Duke did not personally attend the trial, but was represented by his attorney, Shaheed Fatima, who argued against the 2020 decision to strip Harry of taxpayer-funded police security when he visits Britain. Prince Harry leaves from the Royal Courts of Justice, Britain's High Court, in central London on March 27, 2023 (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP)(AFP)

The decision was made by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (RAVEC) when Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, stepped down as working royals. Harrys attorneys have now spoken up about the impact of a successful attack.

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This case is about the right to safety and security of a person. There could not be a right of greater importance to any of us, Fatima said in court, according to Vanity Fair.

Meanwhile, Harrys attorneys told the news outlet People in a statement that RAVEC should have considered the impact that a successful attack on the claimant would have, bearing in mind his status, background and profile within the royal family  which he was born into and which he will have for the rest of his life. RAVEC should have considered, in particular, the impact on the U.K.s reputation of a successful attack on the claimant.

The Home Office has argued that Harry and his family should get protection on a case-by-case basis since hes no longer a working member of the Royal Family and would be living abroad for the majority of the time. He had previously offered to pay his protection across the pond, only to eventually lose that legal bid earlier this year. A judge later granted permission for a full hearing so the Home Offices decision could be reviewed.

Although Harry was not present in the courtroom on Tuesday, he reportedly arrived in London. He is presently involved in as many as five court claims, including one that includes his legal bout with UK tabloids over phone-hacking claims.
Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Saudi Arabia for a meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, part of a rare foreign trip to strengthen partnerships in the Gulf that also defies US and European efforts to isolate him on the global stage. Russian President Vladimir Putin is greeted upon arrival at the airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia December 6, 2023. (via REUTERS)

We have stable and very good relations in terms of political interaction, economics, and in the humanitarian sector, Putin said in broadcast remarks of the two leaders meeting. It is very important for us to exchange information and assessments about what is happening in the region, he said.

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Putin arrived in Riyadh from Abu Dhabi, where his two-nation tour began earlier on Wednesday. He held talks there with United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during which both leaders touted the relationship between their countries and expanding economic ties.

ALSO READ| Israeli army finds major Gaza weapons depot: 'Was near a clinic and school'

Putins visit to the energy-rich region  his first since invading Ukraine almost two years ago  shows hes still welcome in parts of the globe, even as the US and Europe seek to punish the Kremlin with sanctions and arms to Kyiv. His talks in Saudi Arabia will focus on bolstering the partnership between the oil giants, and comes after OPEC , the alliance between the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and other major oil producers, agreed last week to extend and deepen production cuts to bolster prices.

While the alliances talks were marred by delays due to an internal disagreement between Saudi Arabia and Angola and Nigeria, officials from Moscow and Riyadh projected an image of close cooperation and mutual trust during the process.

Saudi Arabia has faith that Moscow will implement its share of the output cuts, Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said in an interview with Bloomberg TV, even though traders have noted Russias contribution comes from export curbs, not an outright reduction in production.

Welcome Party

Putins plane was escorted by four Su-35 fighter jets on its flight to the UAE. Russia received special permission for the flight from the countries whose airspace they crossed, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, according to the Russian state-run Tass news service. UAE Air Force jets escorted the plane as Putin entered the countrys airspace, state newswire WAM reported.

Upon arrival in Abu Dhabi, he was greeted by senior UAE officials and treated to a flyover by the Emirates Knights national air show team, leaving vapor trails in the colors of the Russian flag behind them. Artillery fired 21 rounds to welcome the Russian leader, according to WAM. Putin in turn praised the UAEs decision to join the BRICS group of emerging economies.

The UAE has faced increased pressure from the US and its allies to close channels used by Moscow to skirt trade sanctions and curb ties with Russia.

Still, both Saudi Arabia and the UAE stand to gain from the visit as well, according to Alexander Baunov, a senior fellow at the Berlin-based Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center. In exchange for de-isolation Putin can offer Saudi Arabia and UAE more prestige in global politics, seats at BRICS club, and diversification of their foreign affairs, he said. This is mutually beneficial.

Aside from oil, investment, trade and Israels offensive on Hamas were on the agenda for the leaders. The fighting in Gaza has created a wedge between the US, which supports Israel, and Arab nations including Saudi Arabia due to the thousands of Palestinian deaths and the deepening humanitarian crisis. Moscow has backed Riyadh in its push for an immediate cease-fire and the eventual creation of a Palestinian state alongside a Jewish one.

Middle East Engagement

On Thursday, Putin will host Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, whose country backs Hamas, which is designated a terrorist organization by the US and European Union.

Russia considers many countries in the Middle East to be friendly in contrast to the European Union, UK and US. Russian business, including commodities firms from oil to aluminum and fertilizers, have been moving their operations to the UAE from the West since the start of the war in Ukraine.

Putin is trying to show that he is able to break through isolation and is welcome in capitals that are friendly to the West, Baunov said. It is important to talk directly to leaders of the UAE and Saudi Arabia so they will be less inclined to submit to US pressure to join an anti-Russian block.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who is traveling with Putin, will remain in the region this week, attending forums in Abu Dhabi then Doha, Qatar, Tass reported.

Putin has limited his trips mainly to close allies since he ordered troops into Ukraine, triggering a raft of international sanctions, including on its crude exports. The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against him in March for alleged war crimes, further complicating travel outside his country. Neither Saudi Arabia nor the UAE have signed onto the ICC.
Russia's Federation Council, the upper house of parliament, will vote on Thursday on a proposal to hold the next presidential election on March 17, a senior lawmaker said. Senators attending a session in Moscow. (AFP)

"The issue will be submitted to the next plenary session of the Federation Council on Dec. 7, 2023," Andrei Klishas, the head of the house's committee on constitutional legislation, said in his Telegram channel.

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The announcement of the election date is a formality, but it will clear the way for an expected announcement soon by President Vladimir Putin that he will run for another six-year term.

Putin, 71, has been in power as president or prime minister since the last day of 1999, when Boris Yeltsin stepped down and made him acting president.

He has no serious rival to challenge him in the election. Russia's best known opposition politician, Alexei Navalny, is serving sentences totalling more than 30 years in a penal colony.

If he completes another six-year term in the Kremlin, Putin will overtake Josef Stalin - who led the Soviet Union from 1924 to 1953 - and become the longest-serving leader of Russia since Empress Catherine the Great in the 18th century.
The Justice Department on Wednesday said it has filed war crime charges against four members of the Russian military accused of abducting and torturing an American during the invasion of Ukraine in a case that's the first of its kind. Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian soldiers practice on a tank during military training in Ukraine.(AP)

The four Russians are accused of kidnapping the American from his home in a Ukrainian village in 2022. The American was beaten and interrogated while being held for 10 days at a Russian military compound, before eventually being evacuated with his wife, who is Ukrainian, U.S. authorities said.

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The American told federal agents who had traveled to Ukraine last year as part of an investigation that the Russian soldiers had abducted him, stripped him naked, pointed a gun at his head and badly beaten him, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said.

The evidence gathered by our agents speaks to the brutality, criminality, and depravity of Russias invasion, Mayorkas said.

The case marks the first time the U.S. has filed war crime charges in the victimization of an American, he said.

Homeland Security and FBI investigators interviewed the American, his family and others who were around the village of Mylove around the time of the kidnapping to identify the four Russians, Mayorkas said.

Attorney General Merrick Garland has been outspoken on war crimes in Ukraine since Russia's invasion began in February 2022.

Independent human rights experts backed by the U.S. have said theyve found continued evidence of war crimes committed by Russian forces, including torture that ended in death and rape of women aged up to 83 years old.

The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin in March for war crimes, accusing him of personal responsibility for the abductions of children from Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia doesnt recognize the ICC and considers its decisions legally void. He called the courts move outrageous and unacceptable.

The United States is not a member of the ICC, but the Justice Department has been cooperating with it and supporting Ukrainian prosecutors as they carry out their own war crime investigations.

The charges carry mostly symbolic significance for the moment given the unclear prospects that any of the four defendants would ever be brought to an American courtroom to face justice. They come as the Biden administration, in an effort to show continued support for Ukraine during a separate war between Israel and Hamas, is pressing Congress to approve military and economic aid for Kyivs war effort.

The U.S. and Russia do not have an extradition treaty, but the Justice Department has brought repeated criminal cases against Russian nationals, most notably for cyber crimes and including for interference in the 2016 presidential election. In some of those cases, the defendants have been taken into custody by American officials, such as when theyve traveled outside Russia.
Suella Braverman, sacked as home secretary by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on Wednesday delivered a fresh blow to her former boss by warning that the Conservative Party under his leadership faces electoral oblivion unless he speeds up a crackdown on illegal immigration. Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, left, and Britain's Home Secretary Suella Braverman, attend a meeting.(AP)

In a personal statement in the House of Commons and the first formal speech since her Cabinet sacking last month, the Goan-origin member of Parliament demanded Sunak introduce tough legislation to enforce the Rwanda strategy to deport illegal migrants to the east African country.

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In what will be seen as a clear challenge to Sunaks leadership by pitching to the extreme right of the governing Tories, the former minister said migrant numbers were "putting unsustainable pressure on public finances and public services, undermining community cohesion, and jeopardising national security and public safety".

It is now or never; the Conservative Party faces electoral oblivion in a matter of months if we introduce yet another bill destined to fail. Do we fight for sovereignty, or do we let our party die?, questioned Braverman.

In an apparent reference to some of her controversial statements while home secretary, she admitted that she may not have always found the right words in the past.

But I refuse to sit by and allow us to fail. The trust that millions of people placed in us cannot be discarded as an inconvenient detail. If we summon the political courage to do what is truly necessary, difficult though it may be, to fight for the British people, we will regain that trust. And if the Prime Minister leads that fight, he has my total support, she said.

The crux of her statement was on the "crisis of mass, uncontrolled, illegal migration".

Braverman, now a backbench Tory MP, claimed tens of thousands of mostly young men  many with values and social mores at odds with our own" were "pouring" into the UK, with many not "genuine refugees but economic migrants".

Giving voice to some of the deep divisions within the Tory ranks, she declared it was time for the UK to exit the European convention that blocked the government's illegal migration related actions.

"Previous attempts have failed because they failed to address the root cause of the problem  expansive human rights laws, flowing from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), replicated in Labour's Human Rights Act, are being interpreted elastically by courts both domestic and foreign, to literally prevent our Rwanda plan from getting off the ground," she said.

The former barrister claimed such laws also meant there were foreign terrorists, rapists and paedophiles "who should have been removed but are released back into our communities where they reoffend...because of their human rights".

However, she admitted that while she believed in leaving the ECHR and replacing the Human Rights Act with a fresh British Bill of Rights, that was a "debate for another day" and insisted any new bill should "block off all routes of challenge" so flights to Rwanda can take off before the next election.

The so-called Rwanda plan, first tabled by former home secretary Priti Patel and then championed by Suella Braverman, is seen as a key element of the Rishi Sunak led Conservative governments imperative to curb soaring immigration figures.

On Tuesday, Bravermans successor  James Cleverly  signed a new treaty in the Rwandan capital of Kigali which he said addresses the UK Supreme Court's concerns that previously blocked as "unlawful" the original scheme to fly out illegal migrants to the African nation while their asylum claims are processed.
OUTSIDE a small chapel on Imbros, a windswept Turkish island on the Aegean Sea, the spiritual leader of the worlds Orthodox Christians relaxes under a canopy of oak trees, catches up with old friends and reminisces about his birthplaces dark past. Bartholomew I, the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, born Dimitrios Arhondonis, left the island in the early 1960s to study abroad. By the time he returned a few years later, he could hardly recognise it. The vast majority of the islands 6,000 Greeks were gone, replaced by settlers from Turkey. Convicted prisoners, also shipped in from the mainland, terrorised those Greeks who remained. Some women were raped; several men were killed. The government in Ankara closed the Greek schools, seized nearly all the arable land, and changed the islands old Greek name, to Gokceada.

Over the past few years the islands Greek culture has come back to life. Tourism has taken off. On summer evenings in Zeytinlikoy, the village where Bartholomew grew up, restaurants, many of them Greek, swarm with mostly Turkish diners. After Turkeys government, headed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, allowed three Greek schools to open on Imbros a decade ago, descendants of the Greeks displaced in the 1960s began trickling back, their children in tow. The islands Greek population, which had plummeted to under 200, has since tripled. Dimitris and Maria, a lorry driver and a biologist, arrived from Thessaloniki in 2015, enrolled their four children in school, and learned Turkish. They now run a popular cafe in the islands main town. In terms of the Greek language and education, says Nikos Lemopoulos, the local headmaster, weve experienced a small renaissance.

But elsewhere in Turkey, the picture is bleak. Some 2,700 years after their ancestors founded Byzantium on the shores of the Bosphorus, Turkeys Greeks are on the verge of extinction. The Ottoman sack of Constantinople in 1453 turned them into strangers in their own lands. A brutal population exchange between Turkey, the Ottoman Empires successor state, and Greece in the 1920s, saw over a million of them deported. Those allowed to remain suffered whenever Turkey and Greece locked horns. Official discrimination, extortionate taxes, and a pogrom in 1955 drove most of them into exile.

Things began to improve in the 1990s, when Turkey started to shake off decades of de facto army rule. But the exodus has not slowed. Out of a population of some 200,000 Greeks at the dawn of the Turkish Republic, which turns a hundred this October, only some 2,000 remain, most of them in Istanbul. Theres a level where population decline becomes irreversible, says Laki Vingas, a leading member of the community. Were at this level now.

New incentives, including a path to Turkish citizenship for the descendants of Greeks forced into exile, might have helped. But such measures are not in the pipeline. Even on Imbros, the Greeks face an uncertain future. Nearly all the graduates of the local Greek schools have moved abroad, mostly to Greece, to attend university. Whether and when they will come back is unclear.

Greeks still face prejudice from some quarters. Last month a motley crew of nationalists, including government and opposition supporters, sought to prevent Bartholomew from saying mass at an ancient Greek monastery in northern Turkey. Days before, a Turkish journalist, Melike Capan, had called off an exhibition about the exiles of Imbros after a local official accused her of offending the Turkish nation.

Yet Turkeys Greeks no longer feel as forsaken as they did when nationalism reared its ugly head in the past. Many Turks, on Imbros and elsewhere, have embraced their Greek neighbours, and understood the need to protect the countrys endangered Greek heritage, says Mr Vingas. We know we are not alone, he says. Days after Ms Capan cancelled her exhibition, more than 100 islanders filed a criminal complaint against the Turkish official who forced her to do so, accusing him of hate speech. Most were Turks.

 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
A pro-Kremlin Ukrainian politician who defected to Russia was found dead outside Moscow on Wednesday, Russian news agencies reported citing local emergency services. Representational picture(AP)

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A source in Ukraine's defence sector told AFP that its SBU security services had orchestrated the assassination of Illia Kyva, a former Ukrainian lawmaker who was kicked out of parliament and defected to Russia weeks after Moscow launched its military offensive last year.
The UN cultural agency on Wednesday recognised iftar, the meal that breaks the daytime fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, on its list of intangible cultural heritage. The UNESCO logo is seen.(Reuters)

The application for the sociocultural tradition was jointly submitted by Iran, Turkey, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation.

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"Iftar (also called Eftari or Iftor) is observed by Muslims at sunset in the month of Ramadan, upon completion of all religious and ceremonial rites," said UNESCO.

Iftar, which follows the sunset call to prayer during Ramadan, is associated with gatherings "strengthening family and community ties and promoting charity, solidarity and social exchange," it said.

The age-old community tradition was recognised by the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage that has been meeting in Botswana since Monday.

In several Muslim countries, it is customary to mark iftar by eating a date accompanied by tea. Recipes for dishes and pastries, however, vary greatly depending on the country.

The UN body said that "the iftar practice is typically transmitted within families, and children and youth are often entrusted with preparing components of traditional meals".
After the recent congressional hearing on antisemitism, Elon Musk criticized the presidents of Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania, and MIT for their responses regarding calls for violence against Jews on their campuses through a tweet on social media platform X. Musk, previously accused of anti-Semitism, pointed out the universities' attempts to find nuance in such a serious matter, emphasizing that calling for genocide constitutes harassment. Tesla Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk(REUTERS)

The hearing, led by the Republican-led House Committee on Education and the Workforce, focused on alleged antisemitic incidents following the Israel-Hamas conflict. This conflict, triggered by Hamas' attack on Israel, led to a surge in nationwide tensions, resulting in protests and violence in the United States.

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The three university leaders, relatively new in their roles, faced criticism for not explicitly stating that calling for the genocide of Jews constitutes a violation of their harassment policies. Elon Musk joined the discourse, emphasizing, "Calling for the genocide [death] of anyone obviously constitutes harassment."

This exchange during the congressional hearing has sparked considerable controversy, with the presidents' conditional responses drawing scrutiny. The questioning, led by Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, unfolded against the backdrop of rising antisemitic incidents following the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The aftermath of the October 7 events triggered protests and violence across the United States, leading to heightened tensions. A joint report by the Anti-Defamation League and Hillel International highlighted a decline in the sense of safety among Jewish students on campuses, emphasizing the need for effective responses from educational institutions.

While the university leaders acknowledged the surge in antisemitic incidents and committed to addressing various forms of hate, the nuanced nature of their responses during the hearing has raised concerns. Critics argue that such a critical issue demands a more unequivocal stance against calls for violence, particularly considering the alarming increase in antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents.

As campuses grapple with these challenges, college and university leaders globally are navigating the delicate balance of safeguarding freedom of expression while combating bias, hatred, and ensuring a safe environment for all students.
President Joe Biden has said that had Donald Trump not been running in next years election, he may have retired after a single term of office. If Trump wasnt running, Im not sure Id be running, Biden told a group of Democratic donors in Boston, according to New York Post. But we cannot let him win. President Joe Biden speaks during a reception at the White House ahead of the 46th Kennedy Center Honors gala, in Washington, U.S. December 3, 2023 (REUTERS/Nathan Howard/File Photo)(REUTERS)

At 81, Biden is the oldest-ever president of the US. If he completes a full second term in January 2029, he would be 86.

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Biden is routinely highlighted for his repeated gaffes, sharing false memories or appearing confused at public events. Many critics have blamed his behaviour on his age.

In fact, Sharon Sweda, the leader of the Democratic Party in Lorain County in Ohio bluntly said that death is "imminent" for elderly people like Biden. "He is in a period of his life where passing and death is imminent," Sweda said in September, according to Washington Post, adding that she "often" hears Democratic voters say they are concerned about Bidens health.

"We are all on a ticking clock. But when youre at his age or at Trumps age, that clock is ticking a little faster, and thats a concern for voters," she said.

Another Democratic lawmaker said in the past that the possibility that Joe might secure the nomination and then have to drop out of the race is alarming. "The worst-case scenario is we get past the nominating process with President Biden as the nominee, and then hes no longer able to continue on as the nominee," the lawmaker said. "Thats the nightmare scenario for Democrats."

Longtime Democratic strategist James Carville had raised his concerns too, saying, The voters dont want this, and thats in poll after poll after poll. You cant look at what you look at and not feel some apprehension here."

Meanwhile, many polls show Trump, 77, beating Biden. The RealClearPolitics average of recent national polls revealed that Trump has 46.7% support while Biden has 44.7%. New York Times released swing-state polling last month, which, too, revealed that Trump is ahead of Biden in various states, including Arizona, Georgia and Pennsylvania. Despite Trump having an edge, however, he has several criminal cases against him that he is due to stand trials in.
Amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, over 40 White House interns have penned a letter to President Joe Biden, demanding a permanent ceasefire. The interns, representing diverse backgrounds, accuse the administration of ignoring the "pleas of the American people." Over 40 White House interns have penned a letter to President Joe Biden, demanding a permanent ceasefire.(AP)

The letter, obtained by NBC News, criticizes Biden's stance, highlighting the devastating toll of the conflict. It emphasizes the Palestinian casualties, particularly women and children, and condemns the Israeli government's actions, funded by U.S. tax dollars.

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The interns, identifying as Palestinian, Jewish, Arab, Muslim, Christian, Black, Asian, Latinx, White, and Queer, express their commitment to future leadership. They call on the administration to heed the voices of the American people and push for an immediate end to the violence.

The letter also addresses the impact of the conflict on U.S. soil, citing incidents targeting Muslims and Arabs, including the shooting of Palestinian students in Vermont and the murder of a six-year-old Palestinian boy in Chicago. The interns find these acts inconsistent with the Biden administration's principles and strategies against antisemitism and Islamophobia.

While acknowledging the Hamas attack on Israeli civilians, the interns strongly condemn the Israeli government's response, labelling it as "brutal and genocidal." They call for a comprehensive halt to the mass slaughter of innocent civilians in Gaza, urging the administration to back a permanent ceasefire, release hostages, and support a diplomatic solution aligned with international law.

The interns' letter places Biden in a challenging position, especially with progressive Democrats and the general public. A Data for Progress poll indicates significant support for a U.S.-endorsed permanent ceasefire, with potential electoral consequences for Biden in 2024. Muslim leaders in key swing states have initiated the #AbandonBiden campaign, expressing dissatisfaction with the president's handling of the conflict.

With over 300,000 signatures, an online petition from the Jewish Voice for Peace intensifies the pressure on Biden to act. The interns' call for a diplomatic resolution and a free Palestine amplifies the growing sentiment that a change in approach is imperative in addressing the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Kash Patel or Kashyap P Patel, a close associate of Donald J. Trump with extensive experience in national security roles, has threatened a potential legal action against journalists if former president returns to power in 2024. (FILE) Kash Patel has said, if the former president is elected again, his administration will retaliate against people in the media "criminally or civilly." (AP)

We will go out and find the conspirators, not just in government but in the media, Patel said. Yes, were going to come after the people in the media who lied about American citizens, who helped Joe Biden rig presidential elections  were going to come after you. Whether its criminally or civilly, well figure that out.

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He emphasized the intention to pursue legal action, either criminally or civilly, using the Constitution to address alleged crimes.Were actually going to use the Constitution to prosecute them for crimes they said we have always been guilty of but never have.

Patel, who served as Trumps counterterrorism adviser on the National Security Council and chief of staff to the acting secretary of defence, made these remarks during a podcast hosted by Stephen K. Bannon, Trumps former strategist, discussing the possibility of a second Trump presidency in 2025.

Bench of all all-America patriots

In contrast, Patel noted that the Trump team had a bench of all-America patriots, but he said he did not want to name any names so the radical left-wing media can terrorize them.

In response to these statements, a spokeswoman for Patel, Erica Knight, highlighted his commitment to following the facts and the law. Patel himself issued a statement, asserting that upon Trump's assumed presidency in 2025, they would prosecute anyone who broke the law and aim to end what he termed the "weaponized, two-tier system of justice."

Rise of Kash Patel

It's noteworthy that Patel rose from being a relatively unknown Capitol Hill staffer in the early days of the Trump administration to becoming one of Trump's most trusted aides and influential national security officials. Despite facing opposition to a proposed appointment as deputy director of the C.I.A. or the F.B.I., Patel remained closely associated with Trump even after leaving the government.

Patel served as the former Chief of Staff to Acting Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller and is responsible for leading the Secretarys mission at the Department. He also served as the Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Counterterrorism (CT) at the National Security Council (NSC).

Before joining the NSC, he served as the National Security Advisor and Senior Counsel for the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI).

Since leaving government service, Patel has leveraged his Trump insider status, engaging in activities such as selling merchandise online and writing a children's book. Notably, he has filed defamation suits against media outlets and established a fundraising entity to "fight the deep state" and support lawsuits on behalf of individuals he claims have been "defamed" by the "fake news mafia."

A native of New York, Patel began his career as a public defender. He graduated from the University of Richmond before returning to New York to earn his law degree.
A homeowner suspected of triggering an explosion at his home in Arlington, Virginia, is presumed dead in the tragedy, police have confirmed. Human remains were found in his property, which erupted into a fireball after he fired over thirty flares. James Yoo claimed in social media posts that his neighbours were spies planning to carry out his assassination (LinkedIn, @VABVOX/X)

The man, 56-year-old James Yoo, was a paranoid conspiracy theorist who believed the US government wanted to kill him, the Daily Mail reported. His LinkedIn account, which is now deleted, contained several strange posts. Among them, a post from December 1 claimed his neighbours were spies planning to carry out his assassination. There were several other anti-America posts on his social media. He also called his ex-wife a witch.

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Who was James Yoo?

According to Yoos LinkedIn profile, he was the former Head of Information and Physical Security for an international telecommunication company. On Tuesday, December 5, Arlington County Police Chief Andy Penn said at a press conference, Human remains have been located at the scene. The office of the Chief Medical Examiner will work to positively identify the individual and cause and manner of death.

It has also been reported that in the past, Yoo had communicated with the FBI through phone calls, online tips and letters. David Sundberg, FBI assistant director for Washington, said, I would characterize these communications as primarily complaints about alleged frauds he believed were perpetrated against him.

Fellow residents called Yoo a loner. He apparently thought locals were carrying out surveillance operations on his house and providing information to the US authorities.

Jamie/Rosemary and Lance and her two children are spies and act as buffers collecting my information and then delivering to their handlers, Yoo wrote in a social media post. He also claimed they were working with the witch and the alien plotting a surprise attack against him on December 7, which is the Pearl Harbor attack anniversary.

Yoo did not provide any evidence for his allegations. In fact, he had filed lawsuits against state and federal authorities in the past. In 2018, he launched a case in New York against family members, including ex-wife Stephanie, and Rochester General Hospital. He alleged he was detained against his will. Judges, however, dismissed his suit as frivolous.

The Court has carefully reviewed each page of Plaintiff's submissions. Plaintiff's Complaint consists of delusional-sounding allegations intermixed with other statements that seem more factual, the court document reads. Plaintiff believes he is the victim of conspiracy against him by his sister, his ex-wife, and others including RGH. Plaintiff believes, for example, that his sister, ex-wife and RGH conspired to prevent him from obtaining an attorney.

The judges dismissed Yoos complaint, saying he apparently believes there is a connection between the alleged conspiracy, the terrorism on September 11, 2001, and the current investigation into the 2016 presidential election by Special Counsel Robert Mueller. According to court documents, Yoo even tried to contact Mueller to warn him of the so-called links.

Meanwhile, in March 2017, Yoos wife Stephanie had filed for divorce. After she won a court ruling and their divorce was finalised months later, Yoo was asked to pay her a sum of $80,000. He was also asked to buy her out of her share of their marital home for $150,000. The same property was destroyed in the recent blast. It is believed that the couple did not have any children.

The house explosion

A video of the house exploding is now viral on social media. The blast took place shortly after police wrote on social media about a suspect who allegedly set off a flare gun inside an Arlington home.

After the blast, police updated the post saying, UPDATE: As officers were attempting to execute a search warrant at the residence, the suspect discharged several rounds inside the home. Subsequently, an explosion occurred at the residence and officers continue to investigate the circumstances of the explosion.
Russian President Vladimir Putin will travel to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a rare trip abroad to discuss oil production, OPEC and the wars in the Gaza Strip and Ukraine. United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, right, greets Russian President Vladimir Putin upon his arrival.(AP)

Putin's meeting with the prince, known as MbS, comes after oil prices fell despite a pledge by OPEC , which groups the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies led by Russia, to further cut output.

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Putin is due to hold talks with President Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, and then to travel to Saudi Arabia for his first face-to-face meeting with MbS since October 2019.

The Kremlin said they would discuss energy cooperation, including as part of OPEC , whose members pump more than 40% of the world's oil.

"Close Russian-Saudi coordination in this format is a reliable guarantee of maintaining a stable and predictable situation in the global oil market," the Kremlin said.

The Kremlin's chief's last visit to the region was in July 2022, when he met Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Iran.

It was not immediately clear what Putin, who has rarely left Russia since the start of the Ukraine war, intends to discuss with the crown prince of the world's largest oil exporter, just days after disagreements delayed a key OPEC meeting.

They will also discuss the war between Israel and Hamas militants, the situation in Syria and Yemen, and broader issues like ensuring stability in the Gulf, the Kremlin said. A Kremlin aide said Ukraine would also be discussed.

Putin will host Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in Moscow on Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

CLOSE TIES

Putin and MbS, who together control one-fifth of the oil pumped each day, have long enjoyed close relations, though both have at times been ostracised by the West.

At a G20 summit in 2018, just two month after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in a Saudi consulate, Putin and MbS high-fived and shook hands with smiles.

MbS, 38, has sought to reassert Saudi Arabia as a regional power with less deference to the United States, which supplies Riyadh most of its weapons and which is the world's top producer of oil.

Putin, who sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022, says Russia is engaged in an existential battle with the West - and has courted allies across the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia amid Western attempts to isolate Moscow.

Both MbS and Putin, 71, want - and need - high prices for oil - the lifeblood of their economies. The question for both, is how much of the burden each should take on to keep prices aloft - and how to verify the burden.

OPEC last month delayed its meeting by several days due to disagreements over production levels by some members. Saudi's energy minister said OPEC also wanted more assurances from Moscow it would do good on its pledge to reduce fuel exports.

Relations between Saudi and Russia in OPEC have at times been uneasy and a deal on cuts almost broke down in March 2020, when the markets were already shaken by the onset of the COVID pandemic.

But the two nations managed to patch up their relations within weeks and OPEC agreed to record cuts of almost 10% of global oil demand, to prop up the oil markets.

MIDDLE EAST WAR

Since war broke out between Israel and Hamas on Oct. 7, Putin has cast the conflict as a failure of U.S. policy in the Middle East and has fostered ties with Arab allies and Iran, as well as with Hamas.

When Russia intervened in the Syrian Civil War in 2015, it helped tip the balance in Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad's favour, ensuring the Syrian leader's survival despite Western demands that he be toppled.

"The Kremlin seeks to build its line of behaviour taking into account the opinions of the main regional players - Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Iran, who are not just observers, but also, in a sense, participants in the situation," Andrey Kortunov of the Russian International Affairs Council think tank told the Vedomosti newspaper.
A 5-year-old Israeli girl met her kindergarten friends for the first time after being released as part of hostage exchange deal with Hamas. A video of Aloni meeting with her little friends at her kindergarten school, has gone viral on social media. (X(formerly Twitter)/@AvivaKlompas)

A video of Emilia Aloni meeting with her little friends at her kindergarten school, has gone viral on social media. First, Aloni's teacher greets and hugs her at the gate of the school. With the girl's entry into the school, more than a dozen friends come out to welcome her. In the video, the little kids can be seen warmly hugging Aloni and exchanging smiles with her.

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The reunion won the hearts of netizens who saw the video on X(formerly Twitter). Here is how netizens reacted to the viral video

"So much love and Im glad for her this is heartwarming to see," wrote one user.

"This legit made me tear up. I hope that she makes it through the day ok," posted another user.

"This one has me in tears. Her friends holding her so tight, and her holding them right back," commented a third person.

"This brought tears to my eyes. God such small kids. God bless them all," wrote a fourth one.

"This is so beautiful and heart warming!," posted a fifth person.

When was Aloni freed ?

Aloni was released from Hamas captivity on November 24. She was freed as part of a hostage exchange deal between Israel and Hamas. Notably, during the truce, a total of 105 hostages were released. Out of those, 80 were Israeli hostages who were freed in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners lodged in Israeli jails.
The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) is warning that more testing of African swine fever vaccines is needed, triggered by Vietnam's plans to export doses in coming months to fight a disease that regularly ravages pig farms worldwide. The contagious African Swine Fever (ASF) has been detected on pigs of Central Agricultural University (CAU) (Representative Photo)

In a world first, Vietnam authorised in July two attenuated live-virus vaccines against the disease, which is not deadly to humans but is extremely infectious among pigs and has caused repeated disruptions to the global pork market, which data provider Research and Markets said was worth about $250 billion in 2022.

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WOAH says AVAC Vietnam JSC, the producer of one of the two vaccines, has not shared sufficient data with international researchers and bodies.

Gregorio Torres, head of the science department at WOAH, urged countries interested in using AVAC's vaccines to conduct their own trials before approving it.

In October, as AVAC was about to announce deals with importers of its vaccine in the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, India and Myanmar, WOAH warned of risks "from use of sub-standard vaccines".

Torres said that Vietnam's announcements led to the warning, but that it was not linked to concerns about specific vaccines.

AVAC says that its vaccine is not dangerous and that widespread use will demonstrate it.

"We have proven our product is safe and effective and we need some time to prove that to all, including those showing concern," Nguyen Van Diep, AVAC's chief operating officer, told Reuters.

He said the company had shared data. Nguyen Van Long, head of Vietnam's Animal Health Department, said on Wednesday data on trials had been discussed in international conferences and meetings.

Diep said that the vaccine had been safely used in farms in 17 provinces in Vietnam since its approval and that sales were increasing.

Scientists at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) discovered the AVAC vaccine, which was then developed in Vietnam because the virus is not present in the United States. The agency did not have access to Vietnam's trials data, a USDA spokesperson told Reuters.

"If somebody puts in the market a vaccine which is suboptimal, it will impact everybody," Torres said, noting that it is harder to assess vaccines in countries with ongoing epidemics, such as Vietnam, because pigs could be infected by the attenuated virus in the vaccine alongside the wild virus.

Countries are eager for vaccines against African swine fever (ASF), which is incurable and has a high fatality rate, resulting in heavy losses for farms that become infected.

China has also developed several vaccines but none has gotten commercial approval.

AVAC is producing between 2.5 and 5 million doses a month and was planning to export 5 million, pending approval from the countries where the company signed commercial deals, Diep said, noting that a green light from the Philippines might come early next year.

Torres said the agency was discussing a new global standard for evaluating ASF vaccines, with possible approval coming in May at the WOAH general assembly. The intergovernmental organisation, based in Paris, has 183 member states.

The standard would not be compulsory, as national regulators decide on approvals, but it could lead to trade restrictions against pork-exporting countries that vaccinate pigs with sub-standard shots.

The AVAC vaccine was trialled in the Philippines with 300,000 doses. The Food and Drug Administration of the Philippines, which is in charge of the vaccine approval, did not reply to requests for comment.

Philippines Agriculture Undersecretary Deogracias Victor Savellano told Reuters his country had not approved or purchased the vaccine yet, noting the regulator's authorisation was critical to food security, as the country faces a national emergency caused by the spread of ASF.

Regulators from India, Indonesia, Myanmar and Malaysia did not respond to requests for comment.

The second approved ASF vaccine, produced by Vietnam's Navetco Central Veterinary Medicine from a USDA platform, had shared positive trial data and is being tested in the Dominican Republic, the USDA said.

Navetco did not reply to a request for comment.
Rescue workers in Zambia have pulled out the first survivor of a Dec. 1 landslide that inundated an open-pit copper mine and trapped at least 38 people who were working there without a permit, the disaster management unit said on Wednesday. Zambian Army special forces officers follow the rescue operation of miners(AP)

The rescue team also retrieved two bodies, which were yet to be identified, the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit said in a statement posted on Facebook.

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"A 49-year-old man has been rescued from the collapsed mine slug dump site in Chingola after being trapped with several other miners," it said, adding that he was being treated in hospital.

ALSO READ| Israeli army finds major Gaza weapons depot: 'Was near a clinic and school'

Zambia's president Hakainde Hichilema said on Tuesday he was still hopeful that the trapped miners were alive, as rescue efforts continued.

The miners at Seseli Mine in Chingola, about 400 km (250 miles) northwest of Lusaka, were trapped in three locations and heavy rains had flooded the pit, the government said.

The mine was previously owned by Vedanta's Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) but is now in the hands of a local company that is yet to start mining operations as it awaits safety and environmental approvals.

It was still not clear how many miners had been trapped but Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe said on Monday 25 families had so far come forward to report missing relatives who were working when the accident happened.

Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo said on Wednesday more family members had come forward with claims of missing relatives, raising the number of those trapped to at least 38.

"We still have hope that we will find others who will be alive," Matambo said during a media briefing.

Rescue workers, including military personnel and others from large-scale mining companies, were being cautious due to soft ground, slowing down the operation.
Half Moon Bay, CA (94019)

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Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills announces the promotion of Maykel Escalona to Hotel Manager, marking his second year with the brand's flagship, West Coast property and tenth year serving luxury hotels in major U.S. markets.

Holding the role of second management position at the contemporary, Art Deco hotel, located at the gateway to the city's most coveted zip code, Escalona will oversee all hotel operations with an objective to ensure each and every guest expectation has been exceeded throughout their stay.

During his two years as Director of Food and Beverage at Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, Escalona demonstrated his leadership by implementing new systems and service standards; restructuring teams for improved alignment across verticals; and initiating new marketing plans for multiple venues. Escalona will build on these accomplishments in his new position of Hotel Manager, which will include the development and mentorship of over 400 team members and managers, as well as leading day-to-day operations of the Forbes Five-Star hotel.

Escalona originally hails from Miami, where he earned a degree in Hotel Management from Florida International University. He answered a calling for luxury hospitality with his first roles at The Ritz-Carlton South Beach and Fontainebleau Miami Beach, where he served as General Manager for the latter property's celebrated Michael Mina 74 restaurant. From Miami, Escalona moved north to broaden his luxury hospitality experience in a new market, at The Beekman Hotel in New York City.
Malliouhana Resort, the flagship of Anguilla's luxury tourism industry and the first five-star hotel in Anguilla, has appointed Maria Daniel as the resort's Director of Sales. In this role, she will manage the sales teams for the storied Caribbean resort and continue to maintain and build relationships with key corporate accounts and serve as the leader of the overall sales team.

With more than 20 years of hotel experience, Daniel brings extensive knowledge and a robust history in the luxury hospitality industry. As an experienced Director of Sales, Daniel has established an impressive background across a variety of esteemed hotels, having previously worked with prominent brands including The Ritz-Carlton, The Viceroy, and SH Hotels and Resorts. Among her coveted achievements is her role as one of a few associates to open all three, five-star Ritz-Carlton hotels in Miami, Florida.

Daniel holds a bachelor's degree in Hospitality Administration and Management from Universidad Catolica de Santiago de Guayaquil in Guayas, Ecuador. In addition to her professional experience, Daniel is inspired by the spirit of wanderlust, and has conquered the Swiss Alps and the Dolomites in Italy.
The St. Regis Deer Valley, one of the most luxurious mountain Resorts in the world, today announced the appointment of a new Chef de Cuisine, Lawrence H. Abrams. Abrams comes to The St. Regis Deer Valley directly from Michelin-starred Valle in Oceanside, California where he served as Sous Chef under renowned Executive Chef Roberto Alcocer. Prior to Valle, considered the exemplar of Baja Mexican Cuisine, Abrams was Corporate Chef of The Cottage Restaurant Group including locations in La Jolla, Encinitas and Del Mar, California. Abrams became known for his menus utilizing fresh fare and unexpected flavors to complement The Cottage's revered classics.

Previous to The Cottage, Abrams cultivated his love of Cajun cooking in New Orleans as Executive Chef at Manning's Bar and Grill preceded by working as a Sous Chef at one of the Big Easy's most well-known restaurants, Commander's Palace. Graduating from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a B.S. in Biology, Abrams then attended the Culinary Institute of America in New York. Following graduation, Abrams honed his craft abroad under the tutelage of French luminaries Georges Blanc and Michel Guerard, as well as esteemed Spanish chef/ restaurateur Juan Mari Arzak of the eponymous three Michelin-starred restaurant. Returning to the U.S., Abrams helmed the kitchens of several of Southern California's most beloved establishments including Oceanaire Seafood Room and Thee Bungalow.

Chef Abrams will be utilizing his experience at RIME, the Resort's signature restaurant, voted a Best Restaurant in Utah 2023, which features fresh seafood flown in daily from Maine, Nantucket and Hawaii and sustainably sourced prime cuts; La Stellina, the new high-design Italian restaurant where locally sourced produce combines with Italian meats, cheeses, and pastas to create dishes that appeal to every palate; Brasserie 7452, the light-filled French bistro surrounding a three-sided fireplace perfect for all ages; and the St. Regis Bar with its supple leather seating and vibrant murals that pay tribute to the history of Park City; the sleek and sophisticated Astor Bar; and The Vintage Room, a clear and heated structure with outdoor deck and fire pit located on the Resort's Upper Ski Beach.
Ryan Mark, a Senior Project Manager with HVS Denver, has performed consulting work on hundreds of existing and proposed assets throughout the Rocky Mountain region, including Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, and New Mexico. During his tenure at HVS, Ryan has worked on an array of assets from small, owner-operated motels to complex, full-service mountain resorts. Before joining HVS, Ryan worked in various roles in housekeeping and front office management at the Hyatt Regency Denver and served as Assistant Manager of the hotel. During his time at the Hyatt, Ryan managed books and people and helped oversee a full renovation of the hotels 1,100 rooms, and he received Hyatts Rising Star, Peak Performer, and Leadership Management awards. Ryan earned his BS in Restaurant and Resort Management, with a minor in Business Administration, from Colorado State University.
Introduction

This case study explores the success Kora Living had implementing HiJiffys Guest Communications Hub across their entire guest journey, from pre-booking to arrival and all the way to departure. They achieved fantastic results by combining their focus on the exceptional guest experience with openness and confidence in embracing automation powered by conversational AI.

This publication provides the context for the challenges Kora Living wanted to address, examples of the solutions they had access to by using HiJiffys technology, the overview of the results, and further testimonials from hotel staff.

The Client: Kora Living

Kora Living is a Spanish hospitality brand guided by the principles of flexibility and sustainability. At their properties, they facilitate and nurture a sense of community, friendliness and destination discovery, making it a perfect accommodation for travellers whether they want to stay for a day, a month or a year.

The hospitality brand has two properties: Kora Green City (180 studios & apartments) is an urban aparthotel in Vitoria-Gasteiz, the largest Passivhaus Accommodation in Europe, and Kora Nivaria Beach (122 villas & apartments) is a seaside resort in Tenerife. Kora Living plans to open three new properties in Andorra, Cabanyal (Valencia) and Tenerife between 2024-2025.

The Challenges

Kora Living was looking for a centralised, reliable, all-in-one solution for automating guest communications to address the key challenges:

Automating procedures



The brand wanted to encourage guests to do check-ins and check-outs online to reduce the volume of work for Front Desk staff and improve the guest experience by removing the necessity to wait at the reception.

Increasing upselling and cross-selling revenue



Kora Living has a wide range of available facilities and experiences that hotel guests can book to enhance their experience. The goal was to be able to send automated cross-selling campaigns via WhatsApp to reach their guests with the offers.

Improving guest experience



Having flexibility at their core, Kora Living wanted to optimise their communication channels to provide immediate, 24/7 answers to most incoming queries while having a possibility for their teams to take over when needed.

The Solutions

Having explored available hotel tech solutions on the market, Kora Living decided to choose the Guest Communications Hub as the best solution to address their challenges and achieve their improvement goals. HiJiffys conversational AI has been implemented across the entire guest journey at both properties, Kora Nivaria Beach and Kora Green City, since 2022.

Why did you choose HiJiffy?

We did a small market analysis beforehand, but having such good references from several hotel managers and being convinced by the demo, we felt it was the right tool. Inigo Boulandier, Brand Manager at Kora Living

The hospitality brand was able to seamlessly integrate HiJiffys conversational AI with other hotel tech systems they were already using: Mirai (booking engine), SIHOT (PMS), and Civitfun (digital check-in/out service provider), opening up the potential for further automation.

With the support of HiJiffys Customer Success team, Kora Living reimagined their guest communications, deploying conversational AI to automate the following tasks:

Answering FAQs



HiJiffys AI specialised in over 200 hospitality-specific topics replies to incoming queries instantly, 24/7, across various channels managed by the brand, including the web chat, WhatsApp and Google Business.

Booking assistance



Guests are guided through the booking process by conversational AI integrated with the booking engine for a seamless experience.

Sending check-in campaigns



An automated message to incoming guests with a link to the online check-in form encourages completing the process before arrival and skipping the reception queues.

Sending welcome messages



Guests who complete the check-in receive a WhatsApp message on their arrival with the door entry code, WiFi password, and tips on making their stay sustainable in line with the brands principles.

Cross-selling experiences



During the stay, guests receive personalised messages promoting special events, exclusive deals and various in-house and local experiences available to book at the property.

Sending check-out campaigns



An automated reminder about the check-out time and instructions for a fully autonomous procedure if guests are in a hurry.

Collecting guest feedback



Sharing a link to the internal feedback form upon guests departure.

The Results

Lets look at the key achievements directly related to the challenges indicated in the earlier section. The results are supported by HiJiffys data (visible to the client in the dashboards and reports section of the Guest Communications Hub), as well as Kora Livings own data insights and observations they contributed to this case study.

Over 55% of all check-ins at Kora Living properties are done online

Thanks to seamless integrations between HiJiffy and Kora Livings hotel management systems (their PMS and a digital check-in service), the brand was able to send automated online check-in campaigns on WhatsApp ahead of the guests arrival. With over 80% open rate on this channel, Kora Living achieved an online check-in rate of 60% at Kora Green City and 55% at Kora Nivaria Beach.

Subsequently, the queues were significantly reduced at the front desk on guest arrival, and the reception teams could dedicate their time and attention to what is core to the brand: offering personalised care to the guests. Such developments positively impacted both the guests (improved customer care) and the staff (reduced repetitive tasks).

Increased upselling through WhatsApp campaigns with 80% open rates

Kora Living used HiJiffys Guest Communications Hub as a central platform to communicate the range of experiences and services available to book. The brand observed increased reservations made since implementing WhatsApp campaigns, from one-off seasonal campaigns to regular ones scheduled throughout the year.

Automation of 83% of guest queries with an 85% CSAT score

During 12 months (August 2022  July 2023), HiJiffys conversational AI implemented at Kora Living properties engaged in over 45,000 conversations with an automation rate of 83% and a CSAT score of 85%. The average open rate of those various WhatsApp campaigns is 78-80%.

Testimonials

HiJiffy has enabled us to optimise the reception staff at Kora Green City. We are a hotel where we rely on technology to automate many of our processes, but we are very clear that our customers value most human warmth, which is our statement (Friendly & Flexible Living). With HiJiffy, our reception team controls the conversations and incidents that do not have to be automated, and at the same time, they have an ally that gives them the necessary time so that once our guests arrive at our accommodation, they feel part of a big family. This close and humane treatment is what allows us to position ourselves in all Kora Living branded accommodation as one of the best rated in the destination. Ixone Musitu, Front Desk Manager at Kora Green City

HiJiffy is a tool that has allowed us to automate a large part of the communication system in our two properties, to have a 24-hour sales assistant that is operational and generates revenue, gives us metrics that help us to know our guests better and what they want to experience in a Kora Living accommodation. Being a tool that works via API has allowed us to automate other processes such as automatic sending of WiFi codes, access to electronic lock keys during check-in, etc. Inigo Boulandier, Brand Manager at Kora Living

Kora Living was my first client in the Iberian market at HiJiffy. We first started with Kora Green City and shortly after with Kora Nivaria Beach. It has been a pleasure seeing how Kora Living use our solution has developed according to their needs and demands, supported by HiJiffys Customer Success and Product teams. I am happy to be a part of this project and also to be able to integrate with other hotel tech partners with a sole purpose in mind: enhancing the hotel guests experience. The results speak for themselves, and I am certain they can only go up from here on out. Ana Correia, Senior Customer Success Executive at HiJiffy

Francisco Nogueira

Senior Country Lead Iberia

HiJiffy

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Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today that, effective December 31, 2023, H. Charles Chuck Floyd will step down from his current role as Executive Vice President  Global President of Operations and, effective January 1, 2024, transition to a role of Senior Advisor to Mark Hoplamazian, Hyatts President and Chief Executive Officer, for a period of six months. Floyd will retire from Hyatt effective June 30, 2024.

It is with immense pride and heartfelt appreciation that we celebrate the extraordinary career of Chuck Floyd, who has been a member of the Hyatt family for more than four decades. Chucks tenure at Hyatt is nothing short of legendary. He has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the Hyatt family, driving excellent and profitable operations and  crucially  delivering the unique Hyatt guest experience that embodies our purpose of care. Mark Hoplamazian, Hyatts President and CEO

Floyds impressive career started in 1981 as a Corporate Management Trainee, leading him to front office and rooms positions in Minneapolis, Chicago, Los Angeles and Monterey. In 1989, Chuck was appointed to General Manager at Hyatt Lisle in Illinois, followed by General Manager roles in Minneapolis and San Francisco. Chucks leadership journey brought him to Hyatts corporate office in Chicago in 1997, leading to a series of Sales and Operations leadership roles and setting the stage for a celebrated career in global operations. In 2015, Chuck stepped into his role as Global President of Operations which he held through today, overseeing Hyatts Global Operations Center (GOC) and Operations across the Americas, EAME and ASPAC regions.

With Floyds transition, regional Group Presidents Pete Sears (Americas), David Udell (ASPAC) and Javier Aguila (EAME), as well Chief Growth Officer Jim Chu, will report directly to Hoplamazian, effective January 1, 2024.
The new hospitality brand rooted in and inspired by the great American outdoors opens its first hotel and restaurant on December 1st in Estes Park, Colorado with plans to open additional properties in the Grand Canyon; Highlands, North Carolina; Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina and Mendocino, California.

Estes Park, CO  Castle Peak Holdings, the investment and development company behind Trailborn  the first vertically-integrated hospitality brand specializing in designing and operating elevated hotels with full-service restaurants and bars, exclusively located in the countrys most extraordinary outdoor destinations  has announced the grand opening of Trailborn Rocky Mountains. The brands highly-anticipated debut property will open to public on December 1st in the heart of downtown Estes Park, Colorado located at the eastern entrance of the Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the countrys most visited national parks. The sprawling campus includes 86 hotel rooms across two properties (40 at Trailborn Rocky Mountains and 46 at Trailborn Rocky Mountains Outpost, which will open shortly after), a restaurant, bar, and cafe, two retail markets offering a selection of curated local products and grab-and-go items, and extensive outdoor public areas, including two seasonal pools, patios, porches, and communal fire pits, all with views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. Trailborn debuts as the forerunner at the confluence of hospitality and the great outdoors, heralding a new era of accommodations and accessibility for outdoor enthusiasts. Pioneering a new standard, Trailborn excels at crafting meticulously designed and unique hotels, restaurants, and bars, ideally situated in the center of the most sought-after outdoor destinations. The Trailborn experience transcends the ordinary, boldly redefining the landscape of destination lodging, and crafts a guest journey supported by thoughtfully curated programming, full-service dining and drinking establishments, and one-of-a-kind experiences. Each Trailborn property is distinctly authentic, seamlessly weaving together the rich tapestry of its localeimbued with the spirit of its environment, culture, and history. Next year, Trailborn will open additional properties at the Grand Canyon; Highlands, North Carolina; Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina and Mendocino, California.

Trailborn was founded on the belief that life should be an adventure, and were making this a reality by creating one-of-a-kind hotels that are the perfect home base for exploring the most extraordinary outdoor destinations. Each Trailborn is rooted in its unique location thoughtfully designed, brought to life by carefully-crafted touches and memorable experiences, and placed alongside national parks, beaches, mountain towns, and other natural wonders. We're thrilled to officially unveil our first Trailborn property in a locale as iconic as Rocky Mountain National Park. Mike Weiss, Co-CEO & Co-Founder of Trailborn

Trailborn Rocky Mountains and Rocky Mountains Outpost

Inspired by themes of Americana, Trailborn collaborated with acclaimed Venice Beach-based architecture firm, Electric Bowery, to design Trailborn Rocky Mountains in a way that pays homage to the rustic wilderness that surrounds it. Each Trailborn hotel is crafted with a strong sense of place, featuring art, decor, and amenities from local makers. For this project, the design team maintained the historic feel of the lodge, while reimagining and renovating every guestroom, bathroom, lobby, pool, and outdoor space. The rooms at Trailborn Rocky Mountains & Rocky Mountains Outpost are design-forward, functional, and fashioned to serve as comfortable respites between outdoor adventures. Guests can choose from a variety of layouts, including king, double queen and bunk options, adjoining rooms and a deluxe suite  ideal for families, or groups traveling together. Each room is stocked with a lightweight portable cooler to fill with goods from the onsite market, a mini fridge, a Fellow tea kettle, Huck x Trailborn artisan instant coffee, Tivoli bluetooth radios, Grown Alchemist bath products, Barebones lanterns, and ample space to relax and unwind. Select rooms have private balconies with additional seating. Adding to the modern-meets-rustic aesthetic, custom furniture and lighting in natural materials are a nod to American craftsmanship  including wooden beds, sustainable cork flooring, banquette benches, side tables with inset charging stations, and multiple storage options. Rooms are neutral in tone with artwork commissioned as a nod to local surroundings, and textiles inspired by local artisans.

The public spaces at Trailborn Rocky Mountains and Rocky Mountains Outpost combine the convivial elements of a modern mountain lodge, high-design details of a boutique hotel, and friendliness of a family resort. Both the flagship and outpost properties each have their own lobby lounge, which serves as a communal living room and is also home to concierge services. Complete with wraparound built-in couches, fireplaces, books and boardgames, and outdoor communal areas, each lobby is an all-year hang-out. The Market in each lobby offers a curated selection of grab-and-go snacks and beverages, outdoor goods, and Trailborn-branded items. Out front, guests can grab complimentary branded bikes to ride along the river into town.

The pools are integral warm weather gathering spots at Trailborn Rocky Mountains & Rocky Mountains Outpost, with one at each property. Outfitted with locally-crafted Adirondack chairs, comfortable lounge seating and custom murals by local artists, and enlivened by curated playlists, a popsicle cart, and games  each pool acts as a social hub, where guests can congregate. The lobby markets offer craft beer, cocktails, and local snacks, which can be packed in a Trailborn cooler to enjoy by the pool or fire pit.

Throughout the day, the hotels lobby, patio, and fire pit area offer on-site programming, from seasonal morning yoga to whisky tastings and smores to afternoon lawn games and activities for families, such as kids wilderness experiences and arts and craft classes.

Trailborn makes it easy for guests to explore its outdoor destinations, offering exclusive off-site excursions, like fly fishing, wildlife photography tours, and backcountry snowshoeing that leave from the lobby. Trailborn has created curated Field Guides with local insider tips, and the charismatic staff is trained to help guests plan their entire visit, so they can get the most out of their time in the Rocky Mountains.

Outdoor travel and national park visitation have skyrocketed in recent years, but accommodations in these destinations have not kept up with travelers' preferences. Trailborn is delivering something new  thoughtful design, curated amenities and activities, and vibrant bar and restaurant concepts to provide a consistently amazing, yet locally-authentic experience at each of our hotels. Were excited to be the first to introduce this type of hospitality experience in places where we know travelers are looking for it. Ben Weinberg, Co-CEO & Co-Founder of Trailborn

Trailborn Rocky Mountains & Rocky Mountains Outpost are just a short walk from downtown Estes Park, a charming mountain town with breweries, taffy shops, and quirky stores. With seasonal festivals and concerts year-round like the infamous Frozen Dead Guy Days and Rooftop Rodeo theres always something happening in the area.

Casa Colina  Restaurant, Bar, and Cafe

Casa Colina is the first bar and restaurant by Trailborn. Meaning "house on a hill", a nod to the natural landscape the restaurant is built on, Casa Colina offers a thoughtful menu highlighting Mexican-American flavors alongside an elevated tequila and mezcal bar program. Just off the lobby lounge in the main building, the restaurant and its bar are lively gathering places  with mid-century floor-to-ceiling windows that frame sweeping views of picturesque vistas. The restaurants design features natural stone flooring, a vaulted ceiling with exposed wood beams and custom pendant lighting. Seating for 100 is available throughout the dining room and outdoor patio, which spills out onto the surrounding grounds.

The dinner menu showcases Mexican-American classics, like chips and guacamole, a variety of tacos, and more, along with a curated beverage program offering cocktails and frozen margaritas, non-alcoholic drinks, South American wines and a selection of Mexican and local beer. The breakfast menu features breakfast tacos, homemade granola, Huckleberry Roasters coffee, and more. House-made, picnic-style lunch options like sandwiches and salads are also available to guests looking to grab a bite before heading out on the trail. The restaurant sources ingredients from around Colorado as much as possible, working with local farms and small businesses. Casa Colina will be open 7 days a week from 6:30am  11am for breakfast and 4:30pm  10pm for dinner.

Trailborn takes a long-term approach to hospitality, reinvesting in the communities and natural environments surrounding each hotel. In line with Trailborn's Keep Extraordinary initiative, a portion of proceeds from each reservation at Trailborn Rocky Mountains and Rocky Mountains Outpost booked at staytrailborn.com will be donated to the Rocky Mountain Conservancy to support local land conservation efforts. Additionally, in partnership with the town of Estes Park, Colorado, Trailborn Rocky Mountains and Rocky Mountains Outpost will source the majority of its energy from non-carbon, renewable sources. Across all properties, Trailborn is focused on sustainability every step of the way and implements environmentally responsible construction practices, green building standards, and sustainable amenities and materials whenever possible.

Visit staytrailborn.com for more information or to book a hotel reservation and follow Trailborn on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to keep up with the brands latest news. Also follow Trailborn on Spotify to listen to the brands latest curated playlists.

ABOUT CASTLE PEAK HOLDINGS

Castle Peak Holdings is the investment and development company behind the hospitality brand Trailborn, founded by two friends and entrepreneurs Ben Weinberg and Mike Weiss. With decades of combined investing and operating experience working at leading investment firms and building industry-defining businesses in real estate and hospitality, Ben and Mike created Castle Peak Holdings, a thesis-driven real estate and hospitality investment platform. They focus on differentiated, scalable opportunities in growing, high-barrier-to-entry, non-institutional markets. In 2020, they launched a platform focused on acquiring, renovating and repositioning hotels in iconic outdoor destinations across the country. Each of Castle Peaks fully renovated hotels will operate under the company's proprietary hotel brand and management company, Trailborn. Trailborn will launch its first hotel in December 2023, at the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park, Colorado  with hotels to follow in Mendocino, California, Highlands, North Carolina, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, and the Grand Canyon.

ABOUT ELECTRIC BOWERY

Electric Bowery is a Venice Beach based multidisciplinary full-service design and architecture studio founded in 2013 with a reputation for connecting innovative design strategies with familiar everyday life. The studio prides itself in its accessible approach to design and close client relationships, resulting in successful and gratifying project outcomes. Electric Bowerys two managing partners  Cayley Lambur & Lucia Bartholomew  first met while working together on the same project team at Gehry Partners in Los Angeles, each contributing to the Electric Bowery studio a unique vision and extensive past experience within Los Angeles and New York. Alongside Deborah Scott, co-founding partner and advisor, the three women originally formed Electric Bowerys predecessor, Scott Morris Architects Ltd, which was rebranded to become Electric Bowery in 2016. Pushing beyond the typical architect-client relationship, entrepreneurial curiosity has inspired the Electric Bowery team to pursue their own architectural development projects as well: wholly identified & conceived, designed, and construction managed by the studio team. With a unique approach to contract structures and a close-knit team of builders, subcontractors, and resourceful finishing trades, the Electric Bowery team has successfully completed several of these investor-driven development projects, subscribing to and emphasizing the value of thoughtful design.

ABOUT TRAILBORN

Trailborn is a new hospitality brand, rooted in and inspired by the great American outdoors. Each Trailborn hotel puts guests at the heart of the country's most extraordinary outdoor destinations  from national parks to coastal cliffs, and snow-capped mountains to sun-soaked beaches  to combine elevated, thoughtful design with local experiences and create a memorable stay for outdoors enthusiasts. Founded by two friends and entrepreneurs with decades of combined experience in real estate and hospitality, Mike Weiss and Ben Weinberg saw a lack of thoughtfully designed accommodations in proximity to the country's natural wonders. Trailborn is the first of its kind, introducing a new standard of hospitality to these markets  with design-forward accommodations, experience-driven programming, thoughtful food & beverage offerings, and an insightful onsite team to help visitors chart their exploration. Trailborn takes a long-term approach to hospitality, reinvesting in the communities and natural environments surrounding each hotel. The "Keep Extraordinary" initiative donates a percentage of every reservation to support local land conservation and preserve the great American outdoors. Trailborn's debut location will launch in December 2023 at the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the most visited National Parks in the country  with hotels to follow in Mendocino, California; the Grand Canyon; Highlands, North Carolina; and Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.
Generation Z is known for embracing their independence and having a thirst for travel. StudentUniverse, a Flight Centre Travel Group company and the worlds largest student and youth travel marketplace, investigated the thoughts and behaviors of women within this age group, specifically toward solo travel, as the number of females venturing on their own continues to rise.

A survey of Gen Z women found that more than half (58.3%) of respondents are interested in traveling abroad alone. Instilling a sense of empowerment, the appeal of booking a solo adventure is fueled by the experiences of globetrotting females, as an overwhelming majority (83%) stated they have been influenced by the travels of others, whether that be historical figures like Amelia Earhart or their favorite social media influencer. Furthermore, of those who have previously traveled alone, 48% said they would encourage females to plan an individual trip.

This generation of women tend to be more intune with mental health, which attributes to the fact that the top motivators for traveling solo are related to soul searching. A majority (69.7%) of respondents stated that their main reason for scheduling an individual trip is to get out of their comfort zone, while self discovery (62.3%), a sense of freedom (60.3%), self care (57.9%) and boosting their confidence (51.1%) closely follow. These motives attest to the reason that 69.2% of young women prefer solo vacations to be centered around relaxing by the beach or pool. Other top activities include sightseeing (59.4%) and wellness adventures (59%), while only 32.8% of travelers showed interest in nightlife experiences.

When considering the top travel styles and motivators, it is no surprise that Europe ranks as the number one destination of female Gen Z solo travelers. Boasting beautiful beaches, plenty of sightseeing opportunities and the rise in popularity on social media, 68% of respondents expressed interest in visiting the region. The South Pacific and East Asia also appeal to these travelers with 44.1% interested in visiting countries like Australia and New Zealand and 40.8% intrigued by China and Japan.

Despite the appetite and appeal to travel alone, for Gen Z women solo travel still poses concerns. When navigating a foreign country without a companion, the primary reservation, as stated by 71.3% of respondents, is the fear of getting lost or stranded, while general safety concerns and being scammed closely follow at 69.1% and 61.4%, respectively. These areas of concern influence their choice of accommodations as 52.6% of females prefer to stay in hotels as opposed to vacation rentals like Airbnb or hostels (23.2%) where they are more likely to have trusted staff at their disposal. Furthermore, these travelers are more inclined to book reservations at a hostel with a private room (18%) compared to a shared dorm at a hostel (3.4%). The key takeaway here is companies looking to target Gen Z female solo travelers should aim to offer amenities that make their guests feel safe and comfortable.

About StudentUniverse

Launched in 2000, StudentUniverse is a Boston-based tech company that operates the world's largest student and youth travel marketplace. Through negotiations with a network of global partners, StudentUniverse offers exclusive pricing and terms for its members. With operations in the U.S., U.K., Australia, Canada and the Philippines, StudentUniverse empowers students and youth to travel more. Acquired in 2015, StudentUniverse is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Flight Centre Travel Group, one of the world's largest travel companies. For more updates, follow our corporate blog and LinkedIn. For more information visit www.studentuniverse.com.
WASHINGTON - U.S. Travel Association announced today the 2026-2030 host cities for its IPW international travel trade show: Greater Fort Lauderdale, Florida (2026), New Orleans, Louisiana (2027), Detroit, Michigan (2028), Denver, Colorado (2029) and Anaheim, California (2030).

Greater Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Detroit, Michigan, will serve as first-time IPW hosts.

By serving as host site of IPW, each of these world-class cities will play a key role in growing inbound travel and strengthening the U.S. economy. U.S. Travel looks forward to working with these diverse destinations to bring the world to Americaand ensuring IPW remains a cant-miss event on the global travel industrys calendar. U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman

As the leading inbound travel trade show, past IPWs have each generated more than $5.5 billion in future travel to the United States by connecting U.S. travel exhibitors with travel buyers and media to promote products, showcase U.S. destinations and negotiate future business.

The event draws around 5,000 delegates, including 1,400 international delegates, for 90,000 scheduled business appointments over three days.

U.S. Travels IPW future dates:

2026: Greater Fort Lauderdale, Florida  May 18-22

2027: New Orleans, Louisiana  May 3-7

2028: Detroit, Michigan  June 10-14

2029: Denver, Colorado  May 19-23

2030: Anaheim, California  June 1-5

The next two host citiesLos Angeles on May 3-7, 2024, and Chicago on June 14-18, 2025were previously announced by the U.S. Travel Association.

The United States faces intense competition in the race for global travelers, said Freeman. IPW will remain an indispensable tool in attracting international visitors and positioning the United States as the worlds top travel destination.

Learn more about U.S. Travels IPW.

About U.S. Travel Association

U.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representing the $1.2 trillion travel industry, an essential contributor to our nation's economy and success. U.S. Travel produces programs and insights and advocates for policies to increase travel to and within the United States. Visit ustravel.org for information and recovery-related data.

Greg Staley

U.S. Travel Association
Earlier this week I was talking to a regional commercial head of Asia for one of the worlds largest hotel chains and the view forward into 2024 is one of concern, to say the least.

At the moment, the hotel benchmarking data look goods; for many destinations within this region, 2023 was a record year both in terms of topline revenue as well as Gross Operating Profit (GOP). Expectations are significant for the coming year; thus, the higher than usual level of apprehension.

Let us start with the GOP king of Asia, and, all the world: Maldives. A destination that has a GOP figure of just under 300 USD per available room, well over double that of its nearest rival in Asia, which is Singapore, with a GOP of just 116 USD per available room.

It seems to be a magical ride that everyone wants to climb aboard, so much so that there are over 40 resorts set to open in the region before the end of 2025. This is an astounding number and the single biggest growth spurt that this island nation has ever witnessed.

If all these hotels were in the luxury segment, it wouldnt be much of an issue; instead a significant portion of these openings are in the more affordable range, which places pressure on rate as well as inventory.

With such a high GOP figure, one might be forgiven to think that a slight pressure on the rate would not be the end of the world, but actually, it might very well be. Maldives has a huge cost of doing business and has run a GOP margin of 33% in 2023. In fact, from May to October during low season, many hotels struggle to turn a profit. The whole country ran a negative 20 USD GOP in September 2022. No other destination in all of Asia Pacific has this problem.

Traditionally speaking, and for the past 15 years especially, when a destination needed volume, they would go after China, and it would gladly comply as its middle and upper class was growing at explosive figures and expendable income was rising considerably.

This was the hope for many nations in Asia post-Covid, but it has not materialized yet. At the end of August 2023, Chinese outbound travel demand to Japan was very healthy until the Japanese government announced that it would be releasing one million tonnes of treated radioactive water from its stricken Fukushima nuclear plant. No other country had any concern for this except for China, and it immediately made it difficult for its citizens to travel there through regulations and flight suspensions.

Meanwhile, throughout 2023, Thailand was attracting more and more Chinese tourists, with flight capacity growing at an average of 5% per month until a fatal shooting incident occurred at the countrys largest mall in October. This was not a terrorist attack, and normally such an incident would not warrant any travel warnings as it was isolated and the first of its kind.

Yet since December, flight capacity between Thailand and China has been cut by close to 50%. Many analysts and industry professionals did not understand the motive behind such a drastic move. That was until the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Chinese government announced that citizens of numerous countries, including Germany, Italy, France, Spain, and Malaysia, amongst others, would be permitted to enter the country without a visa from 1 December 2023.

It seems that China is very much focused on keeping its travellers, wealth and people within its borders as much as possible and also on attracting others to visit rather than neighbouring nations. We can assume that the economy is the focus of such decisions and that politics are also involved. We hope that time will provide more clarity.

What now? If China will not be the magical answer that was expected, then a pivot is essential, and Thailand is working hard to fill in the gaps. On the 31st of October 2023, the Cabinet of Thailand approved a law that allows Indian passport holders to enter the country without a visa as of the 10th of November 2023. The hope is that this will compensate for some of the loss.

This was not the first move by Thailand, as early in 2022 the country normalized relations with Saudi Arabia for the first time in over 30 years, setting the stage for an influx of visitors. It has also bolstered its exposure and marketing within this region, and it has been a huge hit. Thailand grew its Middle East tourist arrivals by over 80% from 2022 to 2023.

That is a great step to compensate for the lacklustre Chinese source market. However, caution must be exercised. Even after this growth, these volumes represent just 8% of the number of Chinese travellers entering Thailand in 2019. India would definitely help, but there remains a mountain to climb and further diversification is a must.

 Source: HotStats Limited

Let us round up this article with the most stable, most profitable, and secure market in APAC, which is Singapore, where the authorities and the tourist board appear to have been taking all the right steps. Huge city-wide events such as Formula 1 keep getting bigger with more supporting acts. Conferences are being incentivized and moved from neighbouring countries and music events have been the icing on the cake with acts such as Coldplay and Taylor Swift.

It is by no means all doom and gloom. Demand is there, and business is good, but with the influx of inventory, restrictions by China, the growing cost of long-haul travel and turmoil in the Middle East, it feels like a large grey cloud hangs in the air. Let us hope it moves on without a deluge of rain in the coming 12 months.

Story contributed by Tareq Bagaeen, founder of aQedina.com and a senior consultant with HotStats.

Find out what it takes to increase profitability and outperform hotels in your region with HotStats hotel benchmarking reports.
10 Effective Link Building Strategies for Hotels

If you want to boost your hotel SEO, you'll want to incorporate these link strategies for hotels into your digital marketing repertoire.

If youre a hotelier looking to take the next step with their hotel marketing skills, link building can be a rewarding opportunity.

This article is meant to show you strategies that could lead to link building opportunities. It is up to you to figure out the best way to create relationships and eventually turn those relationships into new opportunities.

Lets get started.

1. Create Link-Worthy Content

Crafting valuable content is the basis of effective link building. Develop articles, infographics, or videos that are not only relevant to your hotel but also offer unique insights about your destination, making others eager to link back to your site.

First, youll need to do some keyword research to find what people are interested in. Using tools like Moz Keyword Explorer, Semrush Keyword Magic Tool, or even Google Keyword Planner are good places to start for finding search volumes. Next, write some kick-ass content thats so good that people will want to share it or bookmark it. Adding other media elements like videos, infographics, and images are creative ways to further boost your contents value.

Once you publish new content on your website, your next step should be to promote it on your social media channels and in your email newsletters. This will help get your content in front of more people faster.

2. Monitor Brand Mentions

Brand monitoring is the process of tracking brand mentions from sources across the web. When your brand receives a mention, its up to you to determine whether the source is or isnt linking back to your website. If not, then its an opportunity for you to reach out to those sources to turn those mentions into backlinks. A powerful tool for tracking brand mentions is Google Alerts.

To get started with Google Alerts:

Go to www.google.com/alerts. Enter your brand name. Use quotations around the query for an exact match. Choose language, region, how often and how many results you want. Click Create Alert.

Now youll receive alerts from sources across the web that mention your hotel.

For web mentions, especially blog posts, youll want to try to find contact information from the author and thank them for including your brand and request a link. Hunter.io is a useful tool for finding that contact information. No one likes a boring link request so let your personality shine in your outreach email and dont be afraid to use a little flattery.

3. Monitor Topics Relevant to Your Business

Google Alerts is also one of the best ways to discover who is mentioning topics relevant to your business.

Lets take a look at an example.

Say you have an article that highlights best time to visit myrtle beach.

Create a Google Alert for best time to visit myrtle beach. Use quotations around the query if you want an exact match. Choose language, region, how often and how many results you want.

When a Google Alert comes to your inbox you can reach out to the author and explain that you have some supporting content on The Best Time To Visit Myrtle Beach, and suggest they link to it.

You may need to give them a reason to link to your content. Maybe you have some infographics or images in your content covering topics such as weather patterns, specific events happening during certain times of the year, or occupancy statistics that their content does not cover. You will need to figure out a reason why your content would be a good support piece.

This is a very basic example of finding related content, but you can replace The Best Time To Visit Myrtle Beach with actual content you have created. The point here is to find other forms of content that are very similar to your content, and offer your content as an addition to what they already have.

ProTip: Google Alerts are also great for content creation ideas. Seeing what others are saying about your valuable keywords can spark ideas to create your own content around that topic.

4. Broken Link Building

By identifying broken links on other websites, you can reach out to the site owners/authors and suggest your relevant content as a replacement, providing a mutually beneficial solution.

A good place to start is by analyzing one of your competitors using Mozs Top Pages tool.

Once youve analyzed your competitors website, sort by 4xx status code, and sort by # of external links. Now you have a list of your competitors broken pages with backlinks that you can swoop in to reclaim for yourself. Just be sure your content matches the context of the broken link before reaching out.

Another approach would be to install the Check My Links extension to your web browser. Now when you find a source that you want to get a link from, just use Check My Links to find any broken links on those pages that are topically relevant to your content.

Pro tip: Another way to use broken backlink building is for retaining your current backlinks. This is helpful for your own site by getting ahead of competitors that may use a similar strategy above or before the author removes your link entirely. Just use Mozs Top Pages report to identify those pages and get to fixing!

5. Lost Link Building

Lost link building is the process of analyzing your own websites lost links and understanding why they occurred.

Both Moz and Semrush offer Lost & Found reports that make it easy to identify lost links. From here, youll need to assess what link was lost and why it was removed. Does the content no longer exist? Did the other website replace it with a different source? Reach out to the source with a friendly message to address any issues and present new, valuable content that might encourage them to re-add a link.

6. Vendor Partnerships

This one is missed by so many hotel marketers and it could quite possibly be the easiest way to gain relevant, high quality backlinks to your hotels website.

To start, youll need to gather a list of vendors from both the operations and the marketing sides of the business.

Operations vendors may include housekeeping services, security firms, telephone systems, valet services, food & beverage, cleaning supply companies, in-room amenities (soap/shampoo/coffee/etc.) and the list goes on and on.

The first step is to check their websites to see if they are listing any other hotels or businesses that they are servicing. If they are, you simply ask to be included and request a link. If they are not, you can request they create a page like that and link to your hotel website. Again, dont be afraid to use a little flattery and tell them how much you appreciate what they do for your hotel. It can go a long way.

Marketing vendors may include PMS, CRM, marketing agencies, booking engines, radio advertisements, billboards, print, and once again, the list goes on and on. These vendors tend to be a little more savvy and may want something in return for the link youre requesting. You can create your very own case study about how that vendor improved your revenue/occupancy/OTA reliance/etc. Sometimes a simple testimonial is sufficient. If you do this and present it to your vendor, you have a good chance of getting a link back to your hotel website.

7. Directories and Resource Pages

Submit your hotel website to relevant directories and resource pages. This not only helps with building backlinks but also enhances your local and industry-specific visibility.

But submitting your site to a directory isnt the only way to use them. You can also use directories to find related sites.

Identify major directories like Hotfrog and find other sites that are listed in your target category. You can also search for directories that focus on your niche or niches youre trying to reach. These directories will give you a list of sites that fall under a particular category. For example, if youre looking for Ski Rental businesses near your hotel, search for Ski Rental and your city.

Once you have a list of related sites, check them out and figure out how you could possibly earn a link from them. You could ask them to link to a piece of your content that could be beneficial to their visitors, or you could even start a partnership with a nearby business.

8. Use Search Operators

You can use search operators like inurl:keywords to find URLs that contain your target keywords, or use intext:keywords to find sites that have your keyword in the document text. More info on how to use search operators.

By using search operators you should be able identify pages that are similar to yours or at least focus on a related topic. You may have some additional content to offer, content they could link to, or you could possibly even write for their site if they allow it. Its really up to you to figure out the best way to get a link from a related site.

9. Competitor Links

The idea here is to find sites that are linking to two or more of your competitors but not you. There are many tools out there like Mozs Link Intersect Tool that will show which sites are sending links to your competitors.

For instance, Mozs Link Intersect Tool lets you add up to five competitors. Youll then get a list of websites that link to two or more of your competitor sites (or intersect). Export the CSV and now youve got a list of link building opportunities.

ProTip: After you export a list of websites, youll then need to determine where those links are coming from. Is it a list of related sites? Did your competitors blog for that site? After you figure out how they got their links, pursue the same path and get a link for yourself.

10. HARO (Help A Reporter Out)

HARO is similar to Google Alerts in that all you need to do is set your preferences and youll start receiving alerts from reporters that need sources for their articles.

To get started, you can set up an account here. During the set up process youll identify yourself as a subject matter expert and select Travel as your topic. Once you find a query that matches what your hotel has to offer, you can pitch them why your hotel or insight should be featured in the reporters article.

As an example, heres a query for a reporter with Forbes looking for hotels that sell iconic treats. If your hotel fits the bill, then thats a massive opportunity to get a link!

Need a helping hand? Find out how TravelBoom can help you with your hotel SEO endeavors.

About TravelBoom Marketing

TravelBoom specializes in developing and executing customized data-driven marketing solutions that drive direct bookings and growth for its clients. With over 25 years of experience in digital marketing for travel and hotels, TravelBoom leverages advanced data science and analytics to uncover insights and develop strategies that greatly enhance results for our clients and reduce reliance on third-party channels. TravelBoom is also host of the worlds #1 ranked Hotel Marketing Podcast and its quarterly Traveler Sentiment Study both of which can be found at www.travelboommarketing.com.
Chicago, IL (60637)

Today

Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Temps nearly steady in the low to mid 30s. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy with periods of snow after midnight. Low 28F. Winds ESE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of snow 100%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.
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Published: 6 Dec 2023 Share:





Margaret Sakufiwa from Lusaka in Zambia graduated in June 2023 with an MBA from Heriot-Watts Edinburgh Business School through the first Scholarship for Women in Zambia programme.

The Scottish Government and Heriot-Watt's Edinburgh Business School are proud to expand their partnership by offering fully funded MBA scholarships for women in Zambia.

The Gender Equality Initiative was launched at Heriot-Watt Dubai Climate Hub, coinciding with COP28 in the UAE.

In collaboration with the Scottish Governments International Development Fund, the initiative will provide 30 fully funded distance learning opportunities on the Edinburgh Business Schools Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme to commence in March 2024.

The flexibility offered by these online scholarships allow students to combine study with work and home life in their own country. Mairi McAllan, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Net Zero and Just Transition

This is the second time the University and Scottish Government have partnered to deliver a programme that opens doors to business education for Zambian women from all backgrounds.

Commenting on the announcement, Mairi McAllan, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Net Zero and Just Transition said: The Scottish Government is committed to playing its part as a good global citizen and helping to tackle the global challenges of poverty, injustice and inequality.

Initiatives like this one illustrate what that means in practice. The flexibility offered by these online scholarships allow students to combine study with work and home life in their own country, and helps tackle gender inequality by breaking down some of the barriers women have in accessing learning and qualifications.

As a country that has long benefitted from the industrialisation that has driven the current climate crisis, it is only right that Scotland contributes its fair share to support countries that have been unequally impacted by its consequences, and ensure we can meet the aims of the UNs Sustainable Development Goals together.

Welcoming the announcement, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, Professor Richard A. Williams, said: Our mission at Edinburgh Business School and Heriot-Watt University is to help aspiring business professionals across the world transform their careers.

Our students and alumni develop professionally and personally throughout their learning experience, and we are delighted to partner, once again, with the Scottish Government and offer the scholarship to women in Zambia.

We very much look forward to welcoming the scholars to our community of students from around the world. We also hope that the selected individuals will support other women in business, providing guidance and mentorship to females who are still underrepresented across many industries at a senior management level and in boardrooms.

In Zambia, Mainga Kabika, Permanent Secretary, Office of the President, Gender Division, said: "The Zambian Government is committed to enhancing opportunities for women, with over 800,000 more girls attending school since we delivered on our promise of free education in 2021.

Zambia is on the right trajectory and we're actively increasing the numbers of women in leadership positions. We believe that education is the best equalizer and the strongest force for empowering women.

This scholarship provides additional opportunities for Zambian women to access world class tertiary education, through our partnership with Scotland.

Thirty Zambian women will now have the chance to study for a world-class MBA through Heriot Watt University thanks to today's announcement."

Applications are invited from women of Zambian nationality who are passionate about tackling gender inequality and who will use the knowledge and skills gained from their MBA studies to support women in their local communities. The initiative also welcomes applications from women who would not be able to fund their studies. The application deadline is 31 January 2024 and the programme starts in March 2024.

Apply here for a Women in Zambia Scholarship.
Adams' police dog Kumar at the Adams Street Fair in 2021. Officer Curtis Crane and Kumar demonstrating some of his skills at the street fair, an event to raise funds for emergency respoinders. Town Administrator Jay Green, Crane and new K-9 Adam earlier this year. PreviousNext

Retired Adams Police K-9 Kumar Dies



Kumar was 2 years old when joined the Adams force. ADAMS, Mass.  The town's beloved K-9 Kumar has died. The Police Department posted the news on its Facebook on Tuesday afternoon.

"A somber atmosphere has enveloped the officers and handlers as we mourn the loss of a loyal companion, Kumar, our esteemed police K9. Kumar had been an unwavering force in the fight against crime, his keen senses and unyielding dedication made him an invaluable member of the force," the post stated. "Together with his handler, Sergeant Curtis Crane, Kumar forged a bond, becoming not just a partner but a cherished friend."

German shepherds have a lifespan of nine to 13 years. Kumar was 2 when he began his service with the Police Department after months of training with Crane. He was acquired in 2014 from the Netherlands through a $25,000 grant from the Stanton Foundation, which supports police canine units.

Kumar was memorialized with a life-size wooden carving created by the Berkshire Carousel that was auctioned off to raise money to sustain the K-9 program in 2016. A group of Adams residents pooled their resources to purchase the carved Kumar and donated it to the town.

It now sits in Town Hall in its own dog house made by McCann Technical School students that doubles as a donation box to keep the program going.

At the time, then Police Chief Richard Tarsa spoke highly of the pairing of Kumar and Crane, saying, "the dividends they have paid off over the past couple of years are just phenomenal, I can't say enough."

Kumar and Crane over the years often worked with other communities that did not have K-9s. North Adams recently added a new K-9, Rocky, in June.

Adam is from the Czech Republic and was being trained in patrol and narcotics over the past year. He is the first K-9 fully funded through the Hometown Foundation's Police K-9 Awareness Fundraiser.

Police Chief Scott Kelley back in February had said the foundation, through the local Adams Hometown Market, had come through at "a perfect time."

"It is time for Kumar to retire. 10 years is a lot for a working dog," he said.

The full post from the Adams Police Department:

In the quiet halls of the Adams Police Station, a somber atmosphere has enveloped the officers and handlers as we mourn the loss of a loyal companion, Kumar, our esteemed police K9. Kumar had been an unwavering force in the fight against crime, his keen senses and unyielding dedication made him an invaluable member of the force. Together with his handler, Sergeant Curtis Crane, Kumar forged a bond, becoming not just a partner but a cherished friend.

Kumar's legacy shall echo through the corridors, marked by countless successful operations and moments of bravery. The community felt safer knowing Kumar patrolled their streets, a vigilant guardian with a wagging tail and a fierce sense of duty. For nearly a decade Kumar patrolled the streets and as the tale of his service comes to a close wish him well as a he stood as a testament to the enduring impact of a devoted police dog.

Though Kumar's physical presence is no longer felt, his memory will live on, inspiring new generations of police officers and their K9 companions. The canine officer with his selfless service and unwavering commitment, has left an indelible paw print on the hearts of all who knew him, forever remembered as a hero in fur.
Dalton Discusses Options for Cable Contract Negotiations

DALTON, Mass.  The Cable Advisory Commission held its first meeting since 2019 on Monday night.

The commission was re-established to negotiate a new contract with Charter Communications.

There are four voting members on the commission, three of whom are also on the Dalton Community Cable Association's board.

The commission is weighing its options for obtaining legal counsel, the needs to be negotiated, and need for volunteers.

The last time the town had a contract was in 1997 with Time Warner Cable, which was purchased by Spectrum in 2016.

The commission plans to negotiate for a share of gross revenue, capital funds, funding for fiber optic cables, which will enhance its connections, and updated equipment needed to handle this upgrade.

Commissioner Richard White said, to his knowledge, by law the town should have three stations but it currently only has one.

Since a majority of the members on the commission are on the Cable Association's board, they should also be aware of what community members want from the negotiations, White said.

To help with the negotiation process, the commission agreed to have attorney William Solomon attend the January meeting to give a presentation and hear the commission's requests for the new contract.

Based on recent communications with Solomon, Chair Rachel Branch said he was eager to aid the town in the negotiation process and had offered to come to Monday night's meeting.

Branch said she had informed him to hold off on attending the meeting until she discussed it with her fellow commissioners.

Solomon has worked for other cities and towns in Massachusetts on contracts and negotiations for cable contracts. It was unclear how much his services would cost.

Town Manager Thomas Hutcheson contacted the town's counsel, KP Law, and was informed they have an attorney, Bill Hewig, who specializes in cable contracts.

Also discussed during the meeting was the Cable Association's need for volunteers so it can produce more programming.

One potential option that the commission discussed was reintroducing programming with the schools to get students involved. This is something the association did in the past and found that it helped engage and improve the behavior of certain students.

Now that the program is not being offered, the equipment is just sitting idle, White said.

The commissioners added community outreach to a future agenda item so that they can find ways to increase volunteers so more programming can be produced.

Branch was elected as the new chairman during the meeting. Also nominated were Robert Bishop and John Ostresh but they turned it down to avoid conflict of interest. Ostresh is the president and Bishop vice president of the Community Cable Association.
The daughter of a respected and outspoken Uyghur economist who has been in prison for almost a decade on charges relating to "separatism" has called on EU leaders to press for his release during an upcoming summit with China.

Ilham Tohti was arrested in January 2014 following a raid on his home and sentenced to life in prison following a two-day trial.

Next month, Ilham will complete 10 years in prison  where exactly his family does not know, according to his daughter Jewher Ilham.
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Kim Jong-un burst into tears in front of thousands of North Korean mothers as he begged them to have more babies and stop the decline in the communist countrys birth rate.

The dictator was seen dabbing his eyes with a handkerchief in a highly choreographed plea to women gathered at a National Mothers Meeting in Pyongyang on Sunday.

Addressing the audience as Dear Mothers he told them: Preventing a decline in birth rates and good childcare are all of our housekeeping duties we need to handle while working with mothers.

Kim Jong Un attending the Fifth National Mothers' Congress in Pyongyang (KCNA VIA KNS/AFP via Getty Image)

He added his country was being confronted with a host of social tasks that our mothers should join to tackle.

These tasks include bringing up their children so that they will steadfastly carry forward our revolution, eliminating the recently-increasing non-socialist practices, promoting family harmony and social unity, establishing a sound way of cultural and moral life, making the communist virtues and traits of helping and leading one another forward prevail over our society, stopping the declining birth rate, and taking good care of children and educating them effectively.

These belong to our common family affairs, which we need to deal with by joining hands with our mothers.

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un attends the 5th National Meeting of Mothers in Pyongyang (via REUTERS)

The United Nations Population Fund estimates that as of 2023 the fertility rate, or the average number of children being born to a woman in North Korea, stood at 1.8, amid an extended fall in the rate during recent decades.

The fertility rate remains higher than in some of North Koreas neighbours, which have been grappling with a similar downward trend.

South Korea saw its fertility rate drop to a record low of 0.78 last year, while Japan saw its figure drop to 1.26.

The dwindling birth rates in South Korea have caused a shortage of pediatricians, while one city is hosting matchmaking events to boost birth rates.

North Korea, which has a population of about 25 million people, has in recent decades also had to contend with serious food shortages, including deadly famine in the 1990s, often a result of natural disasters such as floods damaging harvests.

North Korea implemented birth control programs in the 1970-80s to slow a postwar population growth. The countrys fertility rate recorded a major decline following a famine in the mid-1990s that was estimated to have killed hundreds of thousands of people, the Seoul-based Hyundai Research Institute said in a report in August.

Given North Korea lacks resources and technological advancements, it could face difficulties to revive and develop its manufacturing industry if sufficient labor forces are not provided, the institute report said.
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The worlds longest-living people in Japan have disclosed four secrets to living an extremely long life.

LongeviQuest, the organisation that verifies the ages of the worlds oldest people, confirmed four supercentenarians who have lived past the age of 110 this year. The list includes Japans oldest living person, Fusa Tatsumi, a woman who celebrated her 116th birthday in April. Tatsumi died from old age on Tuesday, December 12.

Yumi Yamamoto, the president of LongeviQuest who has been collecting the life stories of the worlds oldest people, revealed what Japans super-agers have in common that contribute to their long life span.

Being consistent with habits, not overeating, refraining from doing things in excess, and moving more were among some of the lifestyle habits the supercentenarians followed, according to Business Insider.

Ms Yamamoto said "most of the centenarians and supercentenarians I have met tend to have continued the same lifestyle habits throughout extended periods of time.

She said that consistency of habits is the key to longevity in Japan even if it includes continuing to work after the age of 100 or drinking a glass of Japanese rice wine every day.

The longevity researcher, whose great-grandmother lived to the age of 116, said she was very disciplined and strict in her life and when that extends to the eating and sleeping habits it contributes to a longer life.

"What Ive noticed in these supercentenarians is that theyre very disciplined and even strict on themselves in terms of the regimentation of their lifestyles, she said.

They dont do anything to excess, and that goes not just for food things and drink but also not staying up all night," she said.

Kane Tanaka, the oldest recorded Japanese person and the second-oldest person in recorded history, reached the age of 119. Although she enjoyed Coca-Cola, Ms Yamamoto mentioned that she limited herself to just one bottle per day.

She wasnt addicted to it, and she wouldnt drink to excess. This is something that I think is common in Japan. Japanese people eat in a balanced way and they dont eat or drink to excess, she said. And that goes not just for food and drink, but also things like not staying up all night.

Another common habit among supercentenarians was that they practice hara hachi bu  eating only until 80 per cent full.

Theres a saying in Japanese, which says you should only eat until youre 80 per cent full, so you should leave space at the end of a meal, Ms Yamamoto said.

It helps people practice mindful eating as well as calorie restriction, which several studies have suggested reduces inflammation and help in longevity, she said.

It is about having both balance and routine in life, she said.

Another secret contributing to longevity is moving more and incorporating movement into their daily lives, she said.

People in Japan take part in what is known as radio gymnastics which is a radio broadcast that asks listeners to do body weight exercises for five minutes a day, Ms Yamamoto said.

And lastly, Ms Yamamoto urged people not to stress, an advice that supercentenarians and centenarians gave.

Dont allow yourself to be in an environment which is too stressful or overwhelming, she said.
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Bollywood actor Aamir Khan was among the hundreds of people rescued on boats in Chennai, a day after cyclone Michaung caused widespread flooding in the southern Indian city.

At least 17 people, including a four-year-old boy, died in and around the city in the flooding triggered by incessant downpours brought about by the severe cyclonic storm, which made landfall in Andhra Pradesh state on Tuesday.

Rescuers used boats, inflatable rafts, and ropes to rescue people stranded in houses for two days without electricity or basic supplies. Indian Air Force's Chetak helicopters were deployed to drop food rations to people stuck on the terrace of their houses.

Chennai-based actor Vishnu Vishal on Tuesday raised an alarm on social media, seeking help from authorities due to the rising water levels that inundated his house.

Later in the day, he expressed gratitude to rescue officials for evacuating him along with badminton player Jwala Gutta  who is also his wife  and Mr Khan.

"Rescue operations have started in Karapakkam. Saw three boats functioning already. Great work by Tamil Nadu government in such testing times. Thanks to all the administrative people who are working relentlessly," Mr Vishal wrote on social X, formerly known as Twitter.

The actor shared pictures of Mr Khan along with his family sitting on an inflatable boat surrounded by rescue personnel.

Mr Khan, a Bollywood star, has been reportedly living in Chennai since October to be close to his ailing mother, who was undergoing treatment in the city.

Water receded from the main areas of the industrial city on Wednesday but several residents were still trapped in their homes in the waterlogged suburbs of Chennai. Hundreds of people sent out SOS pleas on social media, requesting urgent evacuations.

On Monday, over 9,600 people were moved to 236 relief camps in eight locations as part of precautionary measures, the state government said.

More than 700 personnel from the National and State Disaster Response Force were deployed for the rescue operation while over 4,300 healthcare workers were mobilised to eight districts of Tamil Nadu, chief minister Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin said.

He said the power situation was being restored in phases.

Photos and videos showed rescue workers wading through waist-deep waters. "There are pockets of low-lying areas," said Greater Chennai Corporation commissioner Dr J Radhakrishnan. "We to hope clear it soon."

The state government extended holidays for schools and colleges in the Chennai district till Thursday.

Mr Stalin has urged prime minister Narendra Modi to release Rs50.6bn (481m) for the state to take up relief measures in the cyclone-battered state.

Raj Bhagat P, a civil engineer and geo-analytics expert, told Reuters that better stormwater drainage systems in the city would not have been able to prevent the flooding.

"This solution would have helped a lot in moderate and heavy rainfall, but not in very heavy and extremely heavy rains," he said.

In Andhra Pradesh, which bore the brunt of the cyclone, the damage was relatively contained, with roads damaged and trees uprooted as big waves crashed into the coast.

In December 2015, floods in Tamil Nadu killed at least 290 people and caused widespread damage.
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Nepal has called on Russia to stop sending its Gurkha soldiers to fight on the frontline in Ukraine after a series of losses sparked anger back home.

The Nepali government said six soldiers serving in the Russian military have died in Vladimir Putins war in Ukraine since February 2022, Nepali prime minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal said.

"The government of Nepal has requested the Russian government to immediately return their bodies and pay compensation to their families," the foreign ministry said late on Monday.

Nepals foreign ministry said that diplomatic efforts were underway for the release of one Nepali soldier from the Ukrainian army following his capture while fighting in the Russian army, the statement added.

The Gurkhas have long been known for their bravery and fighting skills on the battlefield, serving in the British and Indian armies under an agreement between the three countries since the independence of India in 1947.

The Himalayan state, which is wedged between India and China, has no such agreement with Russia.

Between 150 and 200 Nepalis are believed to have been working as mercenaries in the Russian army since the start of the war, said Milan Raj Tuladhar, Nepals ambassador to Moscow, according to The Kathmandu Post.

We are sending those who come [in] contact [with us] back to Nepal, telling them about the high risks associated with joining the Russian army, Mr Tuladhar said.

The ambassador said that young Nepalis are being lured to fight in the war with attractive financial offers, and are effectively being trafficked into Russia.

We have been sending back at least one Nepali national a day. They were all brought to Russia to serve in the army, he said.

If the individual does not possess a Nepali passport, we issue a travel document and send him back to Nepal.

Nepals foreign ministry has urged its citizens not to join the army of any third country outside of its existing international agreements, and demanded Moscow return its nationals.

The bodies of two Nepali soldiers, Rupak Karki and Sandip Thapaliya, have already been buried after they were killed around mid-July this year while others are still in the mortuary, the report said.

It comes as Mr Putin has set his sights on boosting his ground troops capacity in Ukraine and signed a decree last week to increase recruitment by nearly 170,000 to reach a total of 1.32 million, as Russia suffers record losses in its 22-month-long war.

Russias campaign to attract more voluntary recruits has included advertisements promising cash bonuses, cold calls to eligible men by recruiters, and partnerships with universities and social service agencies to attract students and the unemployed across Russia.
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Nepal police have arrested 10 people for allegedly sending unemployed youths to Russia for illegal recruitment into Vladimir Putins army, amid Moscows ongoing war against Ukraine.

Kathmandu police said the suspects were charging up to $9,000 (7,143) per person to traffic them to Russia on tourist visas and have them embedded in the Russian army.

The arrests are part of a police campaign to discourage vulnerable men from fighting on the front lines.

Nepal has been compelled to consolidate its diplomatic efforts following the deaths of at least six of its soldiers serving in the Russian military in Vladimir Putins war in Ukraine since February 2022. One Nepali soldier was captured by the Ukrainian army.

It prompted Nepal to call on Russia to stop sending its Gurkha soldiers to fight on the frontlines in Ukraine after a series of losses sparked anger among the families as they waited for the return of the last remains of slain combatants.

Kathmandu district police chief Bhupendra Khatri said: We are discussing with the government lawyers about the case and will produce them to the court, Mr Khatri said.

The men were being smuggled into Russia through the UAE, he said. It is a case of human smuggling ... organised crime, he added.

Scores of Nepali men have been drawn into the Russia-Ukraine war with mercenaries believed to be fighting on both sides. The young generation from the poor Himalayan nation are being lured into foreign countries for the prospect of a better future and a contract worth about $750 (595) per month for fighting in the war.

In May, Mr Putin announced that foreigners who serve a year in the Russian military would have the process of their full Russian citizenship expedited.

Hundreds of Nepali soldiers are believed to be fighting on the front lines unofficially. But Nepals ambassador to Russia, Milan Raj Tuladhar, puts a conservative number between 150 and 200 of his countrys people embedded in the Russian army since the start of the war.

The country, which has a long tradition of serving in the foreign military, has no agreement with Russia for officially allowing youths to be employed in their army, unlike with the British and Indian armies.

The Nepali government has urged its people to not fight in the war and prime minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal said he is aware of people fighting in the conflict.

Nepals foreign ministry said diplomatic efforts were underway for the release of a Nepali soldier from Ukraines army following his capture while fighting on behalf of Russia.

"The government of Nepal has requested the Russian government to immediately return their bodies and pay compensation to their families," the foreign ministry said late on Monday.
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As the first week of Cop28 draws to a close, battle lines have been drawn over the central issue of the summit: the future of fossil fuels.

Divisions have emerged between countries calling for a phase-out of fossil fuels, the root cause of the climate crisis, and those set against it.

At the heart of negotiations is the Global Stocktake where countries take an inventory of their collective progress to limit global temperature rise to 1.5C this century  a goal that remains far off track.

On Wednesday, a lengthy work-in-progress draft text gave few clues as to what will emerge from Cop28. Options on the table included:

An orderly and just phase-out of fossil fuels

Rapid phase-out of unabated coal power this decade

No mention of phase-out of fossil fuels.

But United Nations climate secretary, Simon Stiell, made clear just how difficult it will be to get the first of those options agreed, warning that the highest ambitions must stay front and centre. He called the current draft a grab bag of wish lists and heavy on posturing.

At the end of next week, we need Cop to deliver a bullet train to speed up climate action. We currently have an old caboose chugging over rickety tracks, he said.

All governments must give their negotiators clear marching orders. We need highest ambition, not point-scoring or lowest common denominator politics, he added.

Whatever is agreed between the 197 countries, it will act as a critical signpost not only to governments and civil society but energy and financial markets on climate ambition.

Language and symbolism is the most important part of geopolitics, Aarti Khosla, director of think tank Climate Trends told The Independent. It decides where we are headed.

As it stands, some countries are poles apart on fossil fuels, which need rapid cuts for any hope of remaining at 1.5C.

Instead, still-rising emissions have the world on track for 3C  a heat bomb that could trigger irreversible tipping points, more catastrophic weather, and sea-level rise.

On Tuesday, the Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance, a group of more than a dozen countries and states, said that Cop28 would be unsuccessful if the final agreement did not include a call for fossil fuel phase-out.

Wopke Hoekstra, a former oil executive who is the European Unions new climate commissioner, also said that all fossil fuels must be phased out.

Small islands, facing existential threats from sea level rise and other climate issues, were also calling for greater ambition.

Samoan minister Toeolesulusulu Cedric Schuster, who chairs the Association of Small Island States, said without a call for a fossil fuel phase-out it would make it significantly more difficult to leave this Cop saying we can achieve the 1.5C limit.

However these calls were coming up against a hard-no from others.

Cop28 president Sultan Ahmed al-Jaber and US climate envoy John Kerry join other officials at the Global Cooling Pledge on Tuesday (Reuters)

Absolutely not, said Abdulaziz bin Salman, the energy minister of petro-state Saudi Arabia, when he was asked by Bloomberg if he was on board with a fossil fuel phase-out. Russia has also rejected language for phasing out fossil fuels.

Many of the worlds largest polluters have expressed hesitation. India is expected to reject any language that only targets coal and not oil and gas.

Chinas position is unclear and Brazils lead negotiator said there was a need for clarity on what is meant by a phase-out.

However, John Kerry, president Joe Bidens special envoy on climate, said Wednesday in Dubai that we must follow climate science  which calls for cutting emissions nearly in half by 2030  before appearing to say that the United States supported a phase-out.

The first week at Cop28 saw flashy announcements including the finalising of the Loss and Damage fund to support vulnerable nations and a pledge by 110 countries to triple renewable energy this decade. The summit pauses for a rest day on Thursday before countries top negotiators gear up for round-the-clock talks to try to reach consensus.

But with so many decisions still in play, it looks increasingly likely that the summit will overrun beyond the 12 December deadline.

Only half of the money for a fund to help developing countries adapt to more extreme climate impacts from wealthy countries has been delivered, which is a major sticking point.

It is now down to the United Arab Emirates, the oil-rich nation leading the conference, to get a final package of agreements over the line.

But how they will wrangle the rest of the world towards an ambitious outcome is unclear following a spate of controversies.

Earlier this week, Cop28 president Sultan Ahmed al-Jaber, who also leads the UAEs national oil company, was forced to insist that he and the UAE very much respect science to quell a backlash over comments questioning the need to phase out fossil fuels. Mr Jaber said that his comments had been taken out of context and that he has been quite surprised with the constant and repeated attempts to undermine the work of the Cop28 presidency.
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Heavy rains, floods, and extra snow will continue to buffet the Pacific Northwest for the next 24 hours, US weather forecasters say.

Daily rainfall records were broken across the states of Washington and Oregon on Monday as a powerful atmospheric river dumped tropical moisture onto the Cascade Mountains.

Terrestrial rivers overflowed their banks in northwestern Oregon and throughout Washington, according to the US National Weather Service (NWS), with flood multiple flood warnings still in place as of Tuesday evening.

One man in Oregon was killed after he was swept away in a flooded creek in Multnomah County, CNN reported, while parts of US Highway 101 and various school districts were closed in both states due to flooding.

The NWS said that the deluge is set to continue throughout Wednesday, warning of "significant rises on many area rivers and streams this week.

An atmospheric river is a moving stream of air that brings warm, moist air out of the tropics and into more temperate regions.

When that air hits land it is forced up into the colder upper regions of the atmosphere, causing the moisture to condense and fall from the sky as rain.

An atmospheric river that comes from the ocean around Hawaii is often called a "pineapple express", due to Hawaii's historic prominence in global pineapple cultivation.

This weeks river is being pulled up from Hawaii by a large storm brewing in the Gulf of Alaska.

Aside from the rain, it has brought warmer temperatures and extra snow falling on mountaintops.
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Adam Driver has been defended by fans after he was subjected to rude interview questions about his appearance.

The actor, 40, recently sat down with CNN anchor Chris Wallace to promote his forthcoming film, Ferrari. During an episode of CNNs Whos Talking to Chris Wallace? on 1 December, the 76-year-old journalist asked Driver whether his physical appearance has impacted his acting career.

Wallace began listing some of the comparisons fans have made between Driver and legendary actors, such as Al Pacino and Jack Nicholson. When asked if he agrees with these comparisons, Driver acknowledged that it was a nice comparison because those are the actors that made me want to be an actor.

However, the House of Gucci star admitted that he tries not to absorb positive press just as much as negative reviews. The New Yorker has also called me a horse-face, so I take it with a grain of salt, Driver added.

That led Wallace to his next question, as he told the Girls alum that he doesnt look like the typical movie star before asking: Has that been a help or a hindrance? While Driver appeared visibly taken aback by Wallaces question, he didnt hesitate in giving the interviewer an expert response.

Well, Ive worked consistently, which is nice, with people Ive always dreamed that I wanted to work with, he said. I look how I look. I cant change that. So I guess it helped me. Yeah, I dont know.

The Marriage Story actor also made a sarcastic quip about his appearance, adding: A hindrance in only breaking mirrors wherever I go and having a misshapen, outsized body that I cant fit through doorways or most clothes or fit into most cars. So apart from that, its been good.

Wallace then took a moment to rephrase his question, asking Driver if he ever thought his career would be easier if he looked like actor Robert Redford. The Star Wars actor once again paused, before answering Wallaces question: Yeah, but it would just be different. I would be giving something off. Maybe Im trying to be diplomatic and I guess if I was alone in a room, Im like, who doesnt want to look like Robert Redford?

But I just kind of accepted this is how I look, Driver said.

Following the interview, a clip of the awkward moment was posted to X - formerly known as Twitter - where it received more than two million views. Unsurprisingly, Drivers conversation with Wallace was met with a flurry of responses from users criticising the CNN anchors line of questioning about the actors appearance.

I cannot believe a distinguished interviewer like Chris Wallace would go down this line of questioning! It was extremely rude, and unprofessional, one person replied to the interview clip. @CNN Adam Driver has millions of fans that think he is perfect the way he is.

Many users also maintained that it should be unacceptable to ask both celebrities and regular people about their appearance in general.

In the year 2023, we dont need to be talking about peoples bodies or perceived attraction which is SUBJECTIVE for all. We just dont have to even go there! We all look how we look! one person said.

Its 2023!! The topic of youre not typical looks in Hollywood should not exist anymore, another user pointed out.

A third person mentioned: Its not okay when these sorts of questions are asked of women and its not okay when theyre asked of men.

While some users took the opportunity to send Driver their love and support, others pointed out that the Oscar nominee is known to have a legion of female fans swooning over his looks. Most notably, Driver became the internets boyfriend when he transformed into a shirtless centaur during a video campaign for Burberry Hero mens fragrance.

Meanwhile, comedian John Oliver has made it a bit throughout his HBO talk show series, Last Week Tonight, to obsess over the actors brooding appearance. He even declared during a 2020 broadcast: I spent the whole year demanding that Adam Driver demolish me. Crush my larynx, you unwieldy boulder.

Why are there people pretending that hes not one of the biggest sex symbols of our time? Did the centaur ad mean nothing to these people? joked one user on X following the CNN interview.

Sorry but I was under the impression that everyone thought Adam Driver is one of the hottest people alive, another wrote. Do people think hes ugly?? My worldview is shattering.

This isnt the first time Driver has dodged rude questions throughout his career. Just last month, the BlacKkKlansman star attended a Polish screening of his new film, Ferrari, in which he plays Italian motor racing driver Enzo Ferrari. During the screening, Driver - who is also an executive producer of the film - was asked by an audience member: What do you think about [the] crash scenes? They looked pretty harsh, drastic and, I must say, cheesy for me. What do you think?

Driver didnt hold back with his reply, telling the person: F*** you? I dont know. Next question.

The film, which is based on the biography Enzo Ferrari: The Man and the Machine, follows Ferrari during the summer of 1957 as he wagered his failing company on a 1,000-mile race across Italy.

Ferrari will be released in US cinemas on 25 December and in the UK on 26 December.

The Independent has contacted representatives for Driver and CNN for comment.
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It seems that Anya Taylor-Joy is among the many people who have had their fair share of struggles trying to use an Android phone.

A hilarious viral video has captured the moment the Queens Gambit star attempted to take a selfie with a fans Android phone. The 27-year-old actor recently attended the CCXP convention in Brazil where she stopped to sign autographs and take pictures with the hoard of fans cheering for her.

It was then that one fan asked Taylor-Joy to take a selfie with their front-facing camera on their Android phone. However, the Last Night in Soho star made it clear she was an iPhone user when she attempted to snap a selfie by clicking the phones side button.

Unsurprisingly, the screen went dark before flashing to the fans locked home screen wallpaper. Taylor-Joy gave them back their phone, but the fan was persistent in taking a selfie with the beloved actor. When she tried to take a selfie for the second time, she checked the side buttons on the Android to make sure she was pressing the correct one.

Still, she made the same mistake. As the screen went dark, The Menu star appeared to yell f*** in frustration. Taylor-Joy ultimately gave the Android back to the fan before greeting other fans at the convention.

The amusing clip was initially posted to X - formerly known as Twitter - by user @ramon_png, who claimed to be the unfortunate Android user in the video. Imagine, you are lucky enough to have Anya Taylor-Joy take your cell phone to take a photo. And her bad luck MISSED THE BUTTON TO TAKE THE PHOTO TWICE, SWITCHING OFF HER CELL PHONE!!! he captioned the video, per English translation. Well friends, it happened to me, I dont have a photo with Anya Taylor-Joy because of her slowness lol.

The relatable video was later reposted to popular celebrity gossip account PopCrave, where it was viewed more than 12m times. It didnt take long for people to recommend that the fan purchases an Apple iPhone after the unfortunate interaction.

That man is crying his way to the Apple Store, one user shared on X, in response to the viral clip.

This was heartbreaking to watch, another person joked.

Legend says that fan went straight to the Apple Store the next day, someone else said.

Others pointed out that the video made for a perfect Apple campaign, as one user noted: She needs to be sponsored by iPhone.

If I was Apple, Id be petty and use this clip in my next ad, another person said.

Meanwhile, several users explained that an iPhones volume buttons control the camera shutter, while on some Android phones, users must double click the power button to take a selfie.

Taylor-Joy recently tied the knot with boyfriend Malcolm McRae in Venice, Italy. The Split star exchanged vows with the 29-year-old musician during a ceremony at the Palazzo Pisani Moretta in October. For the occasion, she was pictured wearing a dusted beige gown with floral adornments and stitched birds on the bodice. A number of star-studded guests in attendance included Miles Teller, Cara Delevingne, Evan Ross, and Julia Garner.
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Lenny Kravitz is opening up about his daughters fiance, Channing Tatum.

The four-time Grammy winner was at the Critics Choice Associations Celebration of Cinema and Television: Honoring Black, Latino and AAPI Achievements in Los Angeles on Monday 4 December when he spoke with E! News about Zoe and her partner of the last two years.

When asked about Tatum, Lenny sang him praises. I love him. Hes a great guy, he told the outlet. Hes a great guy. Were very close, and we have a great line of communication.

He continued, saying that the two of them normally spend a lot of time together. We hang out like you hang out with your family, he added. Were together whenever we can.

And he couldnt avoid talking about Zoe and how proud he is of everything that shes done. Extremely, he said. Shes an amazing human being, and Im so blessed that thats the daughter that God gave me. She challenges me, she makes me grow, she inspires me and is my best friend.

The couples recent engagement was shared through sources speaking exclusively to People on 30 October. But Kravitz seemingly hinted at her impending nuptials when she stepped out with what appeared to be an engagement ring on her finger.

Tatum and Kravitz were seen leaving Kendall Jenners famed Halloween bash dressed reminiscent of the 1968 classic horror film Rosemarys Baby. For the occasion, the 21 Jump Street lead donned a full baby get-up, while the High Fidelity star fashioned an outfit to look like Rosemary Woodhouse  nightgown, knife, and all.

But it wasnt Kravitzs bleached pixie cut that was caught in the flash of cameras. The only accessory on the creatives left hand was a ring with a stone in the middle.

The two on-screen regulars began their relationship in 2021, meeting on the set of Pussy Island. While Kravitz hadnt been officially introduced to Tatum prior to filming, she was already struck by the actors persona.

Speaking with Deadline in 2021, Kravitz admitted shed had her eye on the Magic Mike heartthrob when she was writing his role for the movie. [He was the one] I thought of when I wrote this character, she admitted. I just knew from Magic Mike and his live shows, I got the sense hes a true feminist and I wanted to collaborate with someone who was clearly interested in exploring this subject matter.

Apparently, Kravitz was just as captivated by Tatum in person. At the time, an insider told Us Weekly that it didnt take long for the two to become romantically involved.

Before the Shes The Man actor, The Batman lead was married to Karl Glusman for 18 months after being together for five years before they tied the knot. Kravitz officially filed for divorce in January of 2021, seven months before she and Tatum were confirmed to be in a romantic relationship.

Kravitz opened up about her love for Tatum for the GQ 2022 Men of the Year issue. He makes me laugh and we both really love art and talking about art and the exploration of why we do what we do, she detailed. We love to watch a film and break it down and talk about it and challenge each other.

Whether it was making me tea or pouring me a drink or going to whip someone into shape or whatever  he really was my protector and it was really wonderful and sweet, she added about Tatum when they first began working together.

I think if you can do something like that together, its a good test. And we came out even stronger.
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Mattel has been criticised for its new Barbie doll honouring Wilma Mankiller, the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation.

Last month, Mattel announced that it was releasing a doll of Mankiller, who inspired countless Native American children as a powerful but humble leader who expanded early education and rural healthcare. The creation of the doll is part of the toy companys Inspiring Women series. On 6 December, the Cherokee Nation also hosted an event to to celebrate the Wilma Mankiller Barbie.

Mankiller was the nations first female Principal Chief, leading the tribe for a decade until 1995. She focused on improving social conditions through consensus and on restoring pride in Native heritage. The social worker, who died in 2010, met snide remarks about her surname  a military title  with humour, often delivering a straight-faced response: Mankiller is actually a well-earned nickname.

As noted by Mattel, the Barbie doll of Mankiller portrays her dark hair, as the toy wears a richly pigmented turquoise dress with ribbon striping that represents the four directions: north, south, east and west. The toy also comes with a basket, with her look inspired by an iconic photo of Mankiller where shes holding a woven basket.

However, Mattel has now faced some criticism over the doll, with people calling the toy company out for inaccuracies. Chuck Hoskin Jr, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, noted to The New York Times that the dolls basket wasnt authentically Cherokee. He also specified that the wrong sets of symbols used for the Cherokee language were included in the packaging of the doll. As a result, the symbols on the package read Chicken Nation as opposed to Cherokee Nation.

To someone who doesnt read Cherokee syllabary, theyre not going to notice it, he said. To the Cherokee people for whom Wilma is of such enduring significance and we have such enduring love for her, to see our seal incorrect, its very disappointing because it would not have taken much effort or thought to avoid that.

Hoskin specified that he learned about the creation of the doll six months ago, and that Mattel did not work directly with the Cherokee Nation. However, he specified that the company has been understanding of the criticism.

After some of the problems were revealed, we had very good conversations with Mattel. And I think they responded internally to us in a very thoughtful way and expressed some regret for not engaging us, he said.

The Cherokee Nation issued a statement regarding the criticism. Regrettably, the Mattel company did not work directly with the tribal governments design and communications team to secure the official Seal or verify it, the tribe said.

Mattel spokesperson Devin Tucker said the company is aware of the problem with the syllabary and is discussing options. The company worked with Mankillers estate, which is led by her husband, Charlie Soap, and her friend, Kristina Kiehl, on the creation of the doll.

Some Cherokee women were also critical of the doll, with claims that Mattel overlooked the problematic details on the doll and the packaging.

Mixed emotions shared by me and many other Cherokee women who have now purchased the product revolve around whether a Wilma Barbie captures her legacy, her physical features and the importance of centering Cherokee women in decision making, Stacy Leeds, the law school dean at Arizona State University and a former Cherokee Nation Supreme Court justice, told The Associated Press in an email.

Regina Thompson, a Cherokee basket weaver who grew up near Tahlequah, doesnt think the doll looks like Mankiller. Mattel should have considered traditional pucker toe moccasins, instead of black shoes, and included symbols on the basket that Cherokees use to tell a story, she said.

Wilmas name is the only thing Cherokee on that box, Thompson said. Nothing about that doll is Wilma, nothing.

Following the release of the doll in November, Hoskin had issued a statement to express how meaningful the creation was to the Cherokee Nation.

When Native girls see it, they can achieve it, and Wilma Mankiller has shown countless young women to be fearless and speak up for Indigenous and human rights. She not only served in a role dominated by men during a time that tribal nations were suppressed, but she led, he said. Wilma Mankiller is a champion for the Cherokee Nation, for Indian Country, and even my own daughter. She truly exemplifies leadership, culture and equality and we applaud Mattel for commemorating her in the Barbie Inspiring Women Series.

Mankiller, whose likeness is on a US quarter issued in 2021, is the second Native American woman honoured with a Barbie doll. Famed aviator Bessie Coleman, who was of Black and Cherokee ancestry, was depicted earlier this year. Other dolls in the Inspiring Women series include Maya Angelou, Ida B Wells, Jane Goodall and Madam CJ Walker.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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Paris Hilton has admitted that she didnt change her first diaper until her son was one month old.

The 42-year-old American socialite recently became a mother of two after announcing the birth of her second child, daughter London, on 23 November. However, in the second season of her Peacock reality TV series - titled Paris in Love - Hilton revealed that she was scared to change her sons diaper for the first time. Now, the clip has fellow parents questioning how Hilton was able to go one month without changing her sons diaper.

In the video - which went viral this week after it was posted to TikTok - Hilton is seen introducing her younger sister, Nicky Hilton Rothschild, to her son Phoenix Barron, who was just 32 days old at the time. Should I learn how to change his diaper? Hilton asked her sister. Before changing his diaper, Hilton held her son as she told him: I said I wouldnt do this on my birthday, but I will for you.

The clip shows Hiltons nanny, Gena, standing by the changing table as Nicky instructs her sister on how to change Phoenixs diaper. At one point, Hilton asks the nanny which side of the diaper is the front and which side is the back. Nicky reminds her sister to be gentle while changing his diaper, as Gena suggests she talks to her son while she changes him.

The scene was later shared to TikTok by user @realitytvking, where it received more than 2.3m views. Over the clip, they wrote in the on-screen text: Not Paris learning how to change her sons diaper for the first time in a month.

In the comments section, thousands of viewers expressed their shock that Hilton had yet to change her sons diaper, one month after he was born via surrogate.

I feel bad for judging because I dont know Paris. Obviously none of us do but like really? You never change your babys diaper? What? commented one person under the viral TIkTok.

Im sorry what, another user wrote. I dont wanna sound like Im mom-shaming but come onnnn A MONTH?!? Even my husband changed a diaper after a day!!

However, some fellow parents began mom-shaming Hilton for not learning how to change Phoenixs diaper.

Rich people are so out of touch with reality, this is real sad, one person claimed.

No amount of money would stop me dealing with my own baby, another wrote. The disconnect here is appalling.

The nanny is stressed watching her do that, a third person commented, pointing out Hiltons nanny standing by the changing table as Hilton changed her son for the first time.

While there were several mom-shamers in the comments section, some people reminded others that Hiltons upbringing and past experiences may pose more challenges for Hilton as she adapts to motherhood.

Its probably how Paris was raised, almost totally by nannies, one person pointed out. Its all she knows.

Guys, not everyone is good at being a first-time mom. It takes time, said someone else. At least shes trying and now shes a great mom. Stop shaming her.

If I had the funds I wouldnt have changed a diaper for a month either, one person joked, while another user agreed: Come on everyone. If we didnt have to change diapers we wouldnt.

Elsewhere in the episode, Nicky told her sister that she should adjust her work schedule to spend more time with her children. Learning to say no and not taking that job, Nicky said, when asked by Hilton what her best advice was for first-time moms.

You dont need the money. Theyre this small for such a small window, and its so sweet, and you dont want to miss it. This should be the priority, she continued. Nicky shared in a confessional that motherhood wasnt always on the reality stars mind growing up. The mother of three explained that Hilton was definitely more of a tomboy as children and she wasnt one to really talk about having a baby.

She went on to describe Hilton as a workaholic and warned her sister not to miss out on anything in her childrens lives.

Back in January, Hilton and her husband Carter Reum surprised the world when they announced the arrival of their first child together, son Phoenix Barron. You are already loved beyond words, she captioned the post, which showed her holding her son Phoenixs tiny hand.

Just 10 months later, the couple - who have been married since November 2021 - welcomed their second baby, daughter London. Thankful for my baby girl, Hilton wrote on Instagram, showing a photo of a pink pajama set with the name London inscribed on the collared top.

Following the birth of her first child, Hilton revealed that she kept his birth a secret from her family and staff in order to protect his privacy. Not even my mom, my sisters, my best friend knew until he was over a week old, Hilton explained on her iHeartRadio podcast, This Is Paris, one month after Phoenix was born.

It was really nice to have that with Carter, be our own journey together. I just feel like my life has been so public, and Ive never really had anything be just mine.

Much like the birth of her son Phoenix, Hilton also surprised her friends and family after welcoming her daughter London via surrogate. The only people who knew were obviously Carter, my mom, and my sister. But my parents didnt know when it was happening, they just knew that it was going to happen, Hilton said during an appearance on Today in November. It was the best Thanksgiving surprise ever for everybody.

I feel just so at peace, so happy, so grateful for my husband and this beautiful family and life that were building together, she added. I couldnt imagine anything else. Im just over the moon with everything.
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Paris Hilton has explained her decision to use a surrogate for the birth of her son.

In January, the 42-year-old gave birth to son Phoenix, who she shares with husband, the American businessman Carter Reum.

In a new interview with Romper, Hilton said she decided to use a surrogate for her firstborn due to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms from sexual assault she allegedly experienced as a teenager.

I just have so much PTSD from what I went through as a teenager, she told the magazine.

In her 2020 YouTube documentaryThis is Paris, as well as her memoir released this March, Hilton alleged that she was physically, sexually, and emotionally abused as a teen during an 11-month stint at Utahs Provo Canyon School for troubled youth.

She alleged that she was woken in the middle of the night and subjected to non-consensual gynaecological examinations.

I cried while they held me down & said, No! They just said, Shut up. Be quiet. Stop struggling, she recalled on Twitter last year.

Provo Canyon School, which has since been acquired by a different company, Universal Health Services, said in a statement to Romper that it cannot comment on prior operations of student experience.

Hilton added that she often experiences PTSD symptoms when she visits the doctors practice.

If Im in a doctors office, I get a shot, anything, I will literally have a panic attack and I cant breathe, she said.

I just knew that would not be healthy for me or the baby, growing inside of someone who has such high anxiety.

Last month, Hilton and Reum unexpectedly announced the birth of their baby daughter named London Marilyn Hilton Reum, who was also welcomed via surrogate.

She is just a little angel and my life just feels so complete with my little baby boy and my baby girl, Hilton said on NBCs Today programme following her daughters birth. Were just over the moon.

I feel just so at peace, so happy, so grateful for my husband and this beautiful family and life that were building together, Hilton added. I couldnt imagine anything else. Im just over the moon with everything.

I am so excited to have our first holidays together. she said. Thanksgiving was so special, surprising everyone with London and getting to show Phoenix the Christmas tree for the first time.

Seeing his eyes light up and seeing the wonder in his eyes, its such a magical experience. I cant wait for our first Christmas together as a family, she added.
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The Crowns Kate Middleton actress has spoken candidly about her nerves ahead of filming one scene in part two of the final season.

Speaking to Vanity Fair ahead of the Netflix premiere on 14 December, Meg Bellamy discussed what her experience was like assuming the role of the Princess of Wales during college. For the rest of the cast, developing each character, like Prince William and Prince Harry, was a bit easier with years of film to help from their childhood.

However, for Bellamy, playing Kate when she first met the Prince of Wales at St Andrews was more difficult. At the time, Kate was just coming into the public eye, which meant there wasnt much information about her.

Tasked with playing Kate, Bellamy had to imagine what the royal was like before she and Prince William were married.

There was a lot of taking how she sounds now, and pitching her voice higher to make her appear younger, and also trying to remove that layer of being a royal, Bellamy told Vanity Fair. Looking at her now, shes always standing up straight, and very poised and elegant, whereas that was probably very different when there were no cameras on her. Trying to remove that layer was a key part.

Among one of the more crucial and challenging scenes was Kates charity fashion show at St Andrews, an irrevocable moment in fashion and history. Not only was the event one of the first times Kate was photographed, but the 2002 show during her freshman year was just as momentous in her relationship with Prince William.

Prince William reportedly paid $275 to sit in the front row and watch Kate strut down the catwalk in a chiffon gown designed by fellow student Charlotte Todd. The garment, which was intended to be worn as a skirt, made Kates black underwear and bra visible. Kates no-pants moment garnered so much attention that Todds original design eventually sold for $125,000 at an auction in 2011.

I was nervous about [that scene] because it felt like a big deal, and filming had felt so relaxed leading up to it, Bellamy confessed. This felt like a looming thing.

The actress had been anticipating filming the scene, worrying about accurately portraying the significance. However, when the time came, Bellamy thought the experience was seamless.

But the reality was as soon as I got there and understood what the vibe was, it was great. You had Kylie Minogue blasting, and the crowd was cheering, and the director Erik Richter Strand made it so comfortable, she noted.

According to Bellamy, another aspect of filming that eased her nerves was wearing the dress. Bellamy proclaimed: It felt really special because it was this iconic look that I knew of growing up.

Other costumes that made her feel empowered in the role included classic emblems of early 2000s fashion, such as low-waisted jeans and tiny tops.

It was very helpful, because as much as you think: Well, its only 20 years ago, the fashion cant have been that different ... it really was, Bellamy added. The low-rise jeans change how you hold yourself, so it was very useful in terms of feeling different and stepping into a character.

On her role portraying Kate as an individual as much as a counterpart to Prince William, the on-screen star felt proud.

I think the thing that people love about Kate in real life is her self-assuredness, her authenticity, the way she connects with people. Those were qualities that Peter bestowed upon the character as well, she remarked.

The final four episodes of the series will be available to stream on Netflix beginning 14 December.
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A woman has called out Trader Joes for the names on its cultural food packaging.

In a viral TikTok video, user Kyi (@kyeatdaays) took issue with the grocery store chains names on cultural food products. She captured a point-of-view skit to illustrate to viewers the moment she realised that the name at the top of her frozen bag of Mandarin Orange Chicken read Trader Mings instead of Trader Joes.

The video followed her opening her freezer, pulling out the frozen chicken bits, and putting them on a baking sheet. She then preheated her oven to 405F before taking one look at the bag and realising the packaging. Wait a damn minute, she then mouthed.

In the overlaid text, Kyi wrote: POV: U just found out Trader Joes does THIS to cultural foods.

Since posting the video, she has garnered over 2.1m views and 150,000 likes. Viewers in the comment section voiced similar experiences, having seen names on Trader Joes packaged foods change if the meals or items are known for being from a specific culture. From Italian to Japanese cuisine, the grocery store chain has often named its cultural products as a reference to the respective cultures.

For the Italian food its Trader Giottos, one viewer wrote, while another added: The soyaki says Trader Joe-San.

Gluten free baking mix says something like Baker Josef lol, someone else remarked. Others mentioned that they loved seeing beers labelled Trader Jose and French food items named Trader Jacques.

Others defended the grocery stores naming choices, noting that they thought it was all a part of the Trader Joes lore. One person said: I thought they were all traders that know each other and sell each other their own foods.

[Not going to lie] its kinda funny, another said. [Especially] if they do it every single one.

However, some thought the store had planned on stopping the practice of labelling its cultural foods with the alternative names.

I could have swore they said they were going to stop doing this  omg, one viewer commented. The comment referred to the grocery stores 2020 announcement it would change its branding after a petition accused the grocery chain of being racist with its labelling.

While the company pledged that it would implement the changes, it later changed tune, saying that it would stick with its labels rather than succumb to public pressure. At the time, Trader Joes said in a statement posted to its website: We want to be clear: we disagree that any of these labels are racist.

We do not make decisions based on petitions, it added, alleging that the decades-old, lighthearted efforts at inclusion were well-liked by customers. We thought then  and still do  that this naming of products could be fun and show appreciation for other cultures.

Briones Bedell - a high school senior in the San Francisco Bay Area when she launched the petition - was shocked at the companys heel turn. As a frequent Trader Joes shopper, Bedell told the Associated Press at the time that shed always thought that the names were offensive, but wasnt motivated to take a stand until she read up on the companys history.

According to the companys website, founder Joe Coulombe came up with the stores namesake and South Pacific decor after being inspired by the book White Shadows in the South Seas and the Disneyland Jungle Boat Cruise ride.

After seeing the book and the rides racist stereotypes of natives and European explorers, which was later updated by Disney, Bedell maintained that Trader Joes was guilty of cultural appropriation.

Its intended to allow the consumer to build up this perceived sophistication through their knowledge of worldliness through their choice of food, she told the outlet. But its not a cultural celebration or representation. This is exoticism. These brands are shells of the cultures they represent.

Although Bedell received thousands of signatures on her petition, her accusations reportedly drew vitriol from both sides of the political spectrum, with conservatives lambasting her for participating in cancel culture, while liberals denounced her for wasting her time on minutiae.

The Independent has contacted Trader Joes for comment.
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Marking his first anniversary of coming to power, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahm admitted he was still struggling to win over ethnic Malay votes and acknowledged frustration over the slow pace of reforms. But he defended his unity government, saying it was now politically stable and able to fully focus on bolstering the economy and improving the people's welfare.

In a candid interview with private television network TV3 late Tuesday, Anwar said that while he understood discontentment because of the slow pace of his governments reform plan, we must navigate wisely and prioritize political stability."

Anwar, 76, whose sacking and imprisonment in the 1990s led to massive street protests and a reform movement that rose into a major political force, has been a long-time opposition leader. He clinched victory last year in the countrys general elections.

Despite a two-thirds majority in Parliament, Anwar's unity government has been plagued by the powerful opposition Islamic bloc that further expanded its influence in state elections earlier this year. The Perikatan Nasional (PN), underpinned by the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party, now rules four of Malaysia's 13 states.

In the interview, Anwar accused the opposition of falsely portraying his government as too liberal and sidelining Malays, who account for two-thirds of Malaysias 33 million people, making it difficult for him to reach out to the community.

There is some truth to it (that Malays do not support the government) but it is because they have been inundated by claims that the government isnt Malay and is against Islam, Anwar said. This is disgusting political slander.

Opposition leader Hamzah Zainuddin claimed this week that Malays now viewed the PN bloc as their preferred political vehicle after his bloc garnered a landslide by-election victory on Saturday. He said the win was a first-anniversary gift to (the premier) to mark the failure of his administration.

Anwar said  in his interview that victory was in an opposition stronghold state, and noted his government also won two other by-elections earlier, adding that the opposition was delirious for thinking it could wrest federal power.

Our strength in Parliament is clear and cannot be threatened, he said. With this strength, its time to focus on developing the economy, raise the peoples welfare... and keep the negative elements away.

Critics say Anwar's focus in the past year has been overshadowed by his efforts to stay in power amid advances by the opposition. His government has taken steps to strengthen institutions and Parliament but has yet to deliver on many promised reforms, including limiting the premier's tenure to two terms and repealing draconian laws such as the Sedition Act.

Anwar has long sold himself as being anti-corruption. But in December 2022, he appointed himself as finance minister in his new cabinet, garnering a wave of criticism. Some have also slammed prosecutors for dropping dozens of graft charges against his deputy Ahmad Zahid Hamidi in September.

However, Anwar stressed  during his anniversary interview Monday  that his focus on banishing corruption remained strong and supported by all parties in his unity government.

Facing an economic slowdown, a weak currency and worsening race relations, analysts said Anwars's year in power was a mixed bag as he faced growing public distrust.

Ahmad Fauzi Abdul Hamid, a political science professor at the University Science of Malaysia, said Anwar had given Malaysia a more prominent voice on the international stage and done reasonably well in economic management given that the world is reeling from a global slowdown, but he remains dogged by domestic politics.

The key challenge facing Anwar is stabilizing the economy amid a strengthening dollar. It is how Anwar can convince the Malays that he means well for them and doesnt seek to usurp their constitutional right, he said.

Bridget Welsh, a Southeast Asia political expert, said Anwars greatest achievement was political survival."

He has stayed in power bringing a semblance of stability to local politics after five difficult years of instability and political uncertainty," she said in an article on her blog.

Before Anwar, Malaysia has had four prime ministers since 2018.

But Welsh said the stability came at a cost of continued political patronage in the management of government bodies, with a mentality of business as usual.

The bargain for power has left reform behind, she said. "What is clear is that the mode of political insecurity runs deep... despite a strong majority not in need of the numbers, Anwar is still searching for support.
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A conglomerate of unions in Norway said Wednesday it will take action against Tesla in solidarity with its Swedish colleagues, who are demanding that the Texas-based automaker sign a collective bargaining agreement.

Jrn Eggum, the head of Fellesforbundet, or the United Federation of Trade Unions, said if Tesla doesnt accept the demand from Sweden's powerful metalworkers union IF Metall by Dec. 20, we will proceed with the implementation of boycott actions. Fellesforbundet is organizing, among others, employees in car repair workshops.

This is a clear signal to Tesla that they cannot transport Swedish Teslas through Norway, Eggum said, adding it was too early to say exactly which measures will be implemented. If they attempt it anyway, it will be met with actions, and we will take the measures necessary to make this work.

Dock workers at Swedens four largest ports already have stopped the delivery of Tesla vehicles in solidarity with the 130 members of IF Metall who walked out on Oct. 27, at seven workshops across Sweden where the popular electric cars are serviced.

Several Swedish unions, including postal workers, have since joined in a wave of solidarity with IF Metalls demands.

Tesla, which is non-unionized globally, has no manufacturing plant in Sweden but has several service centers.

The move comes a day after the United Federation of Workers in neighboring Denmark said there had been speculation that Tesla would deliver its cars to Danish ports and transport them on trucks to Sweden after Swedish dock workers blocked the reception of Tesla cars there.

The head of Norway's Fellesforbundet, which claims to have nearly 170,000 members, said Swedish union members were taking up the fight against a union-hostile company.
 Close Aberfan Schools on lockdown as armed police called out to serious assault

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Armed police have arested South Wales after a 29-year-old pregnant woman was stabbed, leading to a large scale manhunt.

After several hours, a 28-year-old man from Merthyr Tydfil was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and was escorted into police custody.

Several schools in Aberfan had been placed into lockdown as the force urged people to avoid the area.

Schools closed included Afon Taf High School, Greenfield Special School and nursery Trinity Childcare and Family Centre.

Trinity Childcare and Family Centre, added: Trinity Childcare and Family Centre Ltd Aberfan are currently in lockdown as a precaution due to an incident within the community. All staff and children are safe.

Gerald Jones, MP for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney, said: I have spoken to police regarding a serious incident in Aberfan this morning.

You may see an increased police presence in the area and Id encourage everyone to co-operate with police officers as they deal with the incident.

The Welsh village is known for being the site of the Aberfan disaster, when a coal tip on the hillside descended onto several houses and a school in 1966, killing 144 people, 116 of whom were children.

Have you been affected by this? Email holly.evans@independent.co.uk
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The Serious Fraud Office has made an arrest as part of an investigation into a company that allegedly supplied jet-engine parts to airlines using forged paperwork.

The individual was arrested at a property in Greater London on Wednesday afternoon by the SFO and National Crime Agency (NCA). The person, who has not been named, is being questioned on suspicion of fraud and was detained at a non-commercial address.

The Independent exclusively revealed in October that parts sold by AOG were found on a Tui aircraft. The part has since been removed and the firm are no longer on Tuis approved supplier list.

AOG was started in 2015 and became embroiled in a worldwide scandal, first reported by Bloomberg, that grounded hundreds of planes after allegations it supplied aircraft parts using fake documents.

The parts have been found inside CFM56 engines, the worlds best-selling passenger aircraft engine that is used to power older Airbus and Boeing jets.

The SFO said that the parts were sold to overseas companies, some UK airlines, aircraft maintenance providers and some parts suppliers.

European and UK regulators put out warnings in August to airlines about suspected unapproved parts that had been distributed by the firm.

In addition, jet engine maker CFM International took AOG to the High Court and said it had compelling documentary evidence that parts had been sold without the requisite documentation.

After the scandal broke AOG deleted its website and LinkedIn profiles. The company previously had a virtual office space at the Nova Building at 11 Bressenden Place, a high-end office space near London Victoria station. It has since moved to another virtual office space in east London.

The SFO said that some planes had been grounded in the UK and US due to the allegations. It is working with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and regulators in Europe and the US to obtain information for its investigation.

The CAA has been approached for further comment.

Nick Ephgrave QPM, Director of the Serious Fraud Office, said: This investigation deals with very serious allegations of fraud involving the supply of aircraft parts, the consequences of which are potentially far reaching.

The SFO is best placed to take this investigation forward vigorously and we are determined to establish the facts as swiftly as possible.

The aircraft, engine and parts manufacturing industry is worth 34.5bn to the UK economy.
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An investigation has been launched amid claims a teacher punched a Black schoolboy multiple times at a London school  resulting in the child requiring hospital treatment.

The alleged incident is said to have taken place at Christ the King RC Primary School school in Islington, north London.

A statement from Islington Council on X/Twitter, said: We are aware of these reports and are taking them seriously. Were working with the school to investigate.

The councils comments came in response to a social media post by a woman, who claims to be the boys aunt, which reads: I cant believe Im writing these words. My 10-year-old nephew was punched multiple times by his teacher at Christ the King School in Islington.

The 10-year-old had to go to A&E immediately after reporting severe pains across his chest and back areas.

James Potts, Chair of Governors at Christ the King RC Primary School, said: An allegation was made about an incident at the school in November.

As soon as the allegation was made, we took the matter extremely seriously and took all appropriate actions.

A member of staff was suspended at the time, pending a full investigation.

We are working closely with the Metropolitan Police, Islington Council and the Diocese of Westminster.

As part of our continued partnership with parents, carers and the wider community, we take the safety and well-being of our pupils extremely seriously, and are committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all.

It would be inappropriate to comment further whilst an investigation is ongoing.
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Residents of an east London cul-de-sac where a fatal shooting happened on Tuesday night say they heard the daughter of the victim screaming in the aftermath.

A murder investigation has been launched following a shooting in Hackney, east London during which a woman died and two people, including a teenager, were left injured.

Officers from the Metropolitan Police were called at around 6:30pm on Tuesday following reports of a shooting in Vine Close.

A murder investigation has been launched but no arrests have been made yet (Lucy North/PA Wire)

Three people were found with gunshot wounds. One victim, a 42-year-old woman, died at the scene.

The two others - a 20-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy - were taken to hospital where their conditions are being assessed, the Met said.

No arrests have been made.

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Speaking outside a police cordon on Wednesday morning, a neighbours said they heard the daughter of the victim screaming following the incident.

She added that three shots were fired and she knew the woman who was killed but was unsure of the identities of the 20-year-old man and 16-year-old boy who were injured in the incident.

Officers from the Metropolitan Police were called at around 6:30pm on Tuesday to reports of a shooting in Vine Close (James Weech/PA Wire)

This shocking incident has resulted in the death of a woman and my thoughts are with her family at this incredibly difficult time. My thoughts are also with the two people who have been taken to hospital, Detective Superintendent Vicky Tunstall, from the local policing team in Hackney, said.

She added: I do not underestimate the impact this incident will have on people in Hackney and I understand the community will want answers about what has happened this evening. We will share further information as our investigation progresses.

Forensic teams searched a car on the scene on Tuesday night (James Weech/PA Wire)

Gun crime has no place on the streets of London and we will do all we can to bring whoever is responsible for this despicable crime to justice.

Anyone who witnessed the shooting, or has information about what happened, is asked to call 101 quoting CAD 5811/05Dec.
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The Met Police has been bent out of shape by the pressures of policing the London protests sparked by the conflict in Israel, commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has warned.

A report by the commissioner published on Wednesday also revealed that from 7 October to 19 November the Met spent 12.6 million connected to protest and vigils around London.

Hundreds of thousands of people have attended marches through the capital almost every weekend since Hamas deadly attacks on Israel, with scores of arrests taking place.

Speaking at a London Policing Board meeting, Sir Mark said Operation Brocks - the Mets response to the effects of the war in London - had involved 15,000 shifts.

Sir Mark added that the protests had required officers to be deployed from different parts of the force more clumsily than I would like.

Sir Mark Rowley revealed the cost of policing the protests (PA Wire)

We are severely - and I anticipate for the long term - bent out of shape, both organisationally, and that affects many individuals, he said. We have got over 800 open hate crime cases that were working through, which will take thousands of officer hours to work through them and try and bring offenders to justice.

And thats in the context of, from the 7th of October to today, compared to this time last year, were running at a now around twelve-fold increase in anti-Semitic hate crime and three-fold increase in anti-Muslim hate crime.

Because of our foundations - some of our HR and training and resource deployment and management not being as strong as they need to - when youre moving big numbers of people around the organisation, were doing it more clumsily than I would like.

Around 100,000 people have regularly attended marches in London (PA Wire)

Local policing has also been significantly affected with a more than 10-fold increase in anti-semitic crime and a 245% rise in Islamophobic incidents since 7 October, the commissioner explained.

The Met estimates this will require around 6,500 hours of officer time to investigate. The force has so far carried out more than 9,100 visits to religious premises and schools since the deadly attacks by Hamas in October.

The commissioner said the Met was maintaining the level of response it gives to critical and violent incidents, but more than 4,000 officer rest days had been cancelled as the increased pressures werenot sustainable.
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Boris Johnsons claim that his government saved thousands of lives during the pandemic is a gross distortion of the truth, bereaved families have said in a scathing statement outside the UKs covid inquiry.

The former Prime Minister was booed by crowds of people who had lost loved ones to the virus during the pandemic and left to cries of shame and liar after a day of being grilled by lead counsel Hugo Keith KC on Wednesday.

It comes after Mr Johnsons apology to the nation was interrupted by four people who staged a protest in the hearing room at the start of his evidence.

Earlier, Mr Johnson stumbled over his words as the inquiry heard he lost 5,000 WhatsApp messages between January 2020 and June 2020.

He also implied the mad cow disease crisis in Britain made him sceptical of the threat of coronavirus as it wasnt nearly as fatal as people had originally believed.

Boris Johnson was met by protesters as he left the inquiry (Getty Images)

Aamer Anwar, lead solicitor for the Scottish Covid Bereaved group, led a press conference in west London accusing the former Prime Minister of presiding over a disgusting orgy of narcissism.

Below is the statement in full:

Mr Johnson apologised today, but that apology is not accepted by many of the bereaved because he also claimed his government saved thousands of lives and that for many is a grotesque distortion of the truth.

Instead of solving a national crisis Boris Johnson, in his own words, presided over a total disgusting orgy of narcissism.

Millions of frontline workers risked their lives without adequate PPE Johnsons government turned our care homes into killing grounds for the elderly who were treated as toxic waste.

Mr Johnson tried his very best to deny his governments failings meant that the UK had one of the highest COVID death rates of all major economies but that is the evidence.

He was dismissive of WhatsApps but he was accused by senior members of his own government, of his own inner circle of saying let the bodies pile up rather than have another lockdown.

Johnsons excuse today is that his government was slow to understand the severity of COVID but insisted that he got the big calls right.

However, on the biggest life-saving decision of lockdowns on each and every occasion, Boris Johnson delayed and sided with death.

The voice of the voiceless will be heard. The bereaved and all those impacted by Covid at the very least deserve the truth from Mr Johnson.

The former prime minister leaving the inquiry to boos (Getty Images)

Anna-Louise Marsh-Rees, from Covid Bereaved Families for Justice Cymru added: Its very surreal to be standing here today three years after my father died and listening to the man that made the decisions that led to so many deaths. We all knew he was disorganized and disdainful, but you had no idea.

And Im going to use some C words here but not out of the Dominic Cummings lexicon, but I wasnt aware how casual, careless, chaotic, clueless he was, but sadly not competent, and without conscience and 100% not contrite.

Very interesting that one of his biggest issues was dealing with the devolved nations, Scotland or whoever as someone that leads the Welsh group.

We assume that means Wales and Northern Ireland. It just feels like he was living under a rock.

How, how could we all know what was going on in China and Italy and he was just completely unaware of it.

I mean, if the chair needs a recommendation, Id say if youre gonna be PM, there needs to be some kind of exam to do it and it needs to include a memory test. Thank you.

And in a third statement issued on the first day of Mr Johnsons evidence, Natalie Rogers from the Long Covid group added:

If the government had been competent, many of the millions of people who are still suffering from ongoing symptoms from a Covid-19 infection back in March 2020 would not have had their lives ruined.

Johnson talked about communication as being one of the most important NPIs to stop the spread of the virus.

The government has failed to communicate about long Covid throughout the inquiry. It has been sidelined.

The communication would have helped prevent people from dying as well as getting long Covid because people would have taken personal protective measures.

Its really, really disappointing that even though ministers try to bring the fact of long Covid to the Prime Ministers notice. He was clearly sceptical and was unable to take it on the board and was unable to take it seriously.
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Rishi Sunak mounted a fierce defence of his controversial Eat Out to Help Out scheme and said it was unfair to call the Treasury a pro-death squad during the pandemic.

The prime minister used an eight-hour evidence session to brush off accusations that he launched the controversial scheme without proper scientific advice. He praised the incredibly hardworking people working in the Treasury while he was chancellor, hitting back at Boris Johnsons suggestion they were happy to oversee an increase in deaths in order to lift lockdown restrictions.

The now-PM also said he consistently warned his predecessor Mr Johnson about the wider impacts of lockdown, blaming the economic scarring it left for the nations parlous finances today.

Mr Sunak opened his evidence hearing with an apology to families bereaved during the pandemic. He proceeded to make the extraordinary claim that he had not been able to hand over his WhatsApp messages from the pandemic because he had changed phones multiple times and the messages did not come across.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak giving evidence to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry (PA)

But despite coming under intense pressure from inquiry lead counsel Hugo Keith KC, Mr Sunak came off largely unscathed from the hearing. He also pointedly refused to criticise his former boss.

As the PMs flagship Rwanda policy was under intense scrutiny, the Covid inquiry heard:

Mr Sunak denied having called parents who cannot afford food for their children freeloaders

The former chancellor said it was unfair to describe the Treasury during the pandemic as the pro-death squad

He fiercely defended the controversial Eat Out to Help Out policy, insisting it was the right thing to do

Mr Sunak blamed economic scarring from lockdown for the historically high tax burden facing households today

And former PM Mr Johnson became agitated that he did not have a plan for easing lockdown, believing the sooner we get [the economy] open the better

Mr Sunak said on Monday morning he was deeply sorry to all of those who lost loved ones.

Its important that we learn the lessons so that we can be better prepared in the future, Mr Sunak said. He promised to give evidence in the spirit of constructive candour.

After Mr Sunak was asked about his WhatsApp messages, a disappointed Mr Keith pressed the PM on whether he was warned by officials that he would need to keep access to the messages for use in a future inquiry.

But the PM insisted he is not a prolific user of WhatsApp and anything of significance.

The PM went on to say it was unfair to describe the Treasury under his leadership during the pandemic as a "pro-death squad".

The former chancellor was asked by Mr Keith whether he was aware of the description which Sir Patrick Vallance recalled Mr Johnson used to refer to the department being opposed to the strongest public health interventions.

Jean Adamson, who lost her father Aldrick Adamson to Covid, outside the Covid inquiry (Reuters)

The prime minister said: I wasnt and I do not think it is a fair characterisation on the incredibly hardworking people that I was lucky to be supported by at the Treasury.

He was quizzed by Mr Keith on the litany of claims heard by the inquiry so far that Mr Johnson himself presided over a toxic and chaotic working environment in No 10.

Despite tensions between the pair, Mr Sunak declined to criticise his predecessor and said he was not aware of the concerns people had raised.

Mr Keith said: The administration was described privately as brutal and useless, or criminally incompetent or operationally chaotic? Was any of that known to you?

I dont think any of those comments were shared with me at the time, Mr Sunak said.

In a revealing slip of the tongue, Mr Sunak accepted at one point that the tax burden on households was historically high, before quickly correcting himself to say taxes are higher than I would like.

The PM blamed economic scarring on the countrys borrowing during the pandemic.

Celia Macey lost her husband Neil Macey in August 2021 to Covid (Reuters)

Mr Sunak said: The impact of having to pay it back only comes well after the fact when everyone can forget why it was necessary.

And now everyone is grappling with the consequences, I am grappling with the consequences of that, as we have a historically high  tax burden that  is higher than I would like.

That is a direct consequence of the support that was provided during the pandemic.

Mr Keith told him off for using the inquiry to excuse his governments tax rises, adding: Please do not go on to the issue of tax burdens.

Mr Sunak went on to claim he had consistently warned Mr Johnson about the wider impacts of lockdowns.

The prime minister said he wanted Mr Johnson to consider the totality of the effects of lockdown.

Mr Sunak said: One of the consistent arguments I made from the beginning was making sure we collectively and the prime minister considered the totality of the impacts of the decisions that we were making.

The inquiry was then shown an email from Elizabeth Perelman, Mr Sunaks then-principal private secretary, which revealed that in April the former PM was agitated about not having a plan to lift lockdown and said the sooner we get this open the better.

It showed that Mr Johnson thought Britain had overdone lockdown, highlighting that other countries had not closed their construction sectors, for example.

Asked about Eat Out to Help Out, for which he has drawn criticism after Sir Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance were not asked about the scheme before it was announced, he said it was safe and the right thing to do to protect jobs.

Mr Sunaks evidence concludes a slew of bumper appearances from the top scientific advisers and ministers in charge during the pandemic.
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New plans announced by the Tory government on 4 December will risk splitting up families living in the UK in a bid to slash migration.

The five-point plan unveiled by James Cleverly will aim to cut legal migration by 300,000 - but means Brits could see their foreign partners told to leave the country if they dont earn enough.

No 10 said that households will now need to earn a minimum of 38,700 to qualify for a family visa, a significant increase on the current figure of 18,600.

Couples have been left distressed in light of the disgusting plan, which has been described as a tax on love.

However, Downing Street defended the policy, saying it was right that if you are bringing someone into the country you are able to support them.

But what exactly are the new plans? The Independent explains below:

Why are they being introduced?

The Government has justified the plans by saying net migration needs to be cut, after it soared to nearly three-quarters of a million in 2022.

They said the measures will end high numbers of dependents coming to the UK, increase the minimum salaries that overseas workers and British or settled people sponsoring family members must earn, and tackle exploitation across the immigration system.

James Cleverly also said the plans will make sure that migrants coming to the UK make a fair financial contribution so that public services.

What will change?

The plan will ban overseas students from bringing their families to the UK, unless they are on postgraduate research degrees.

Foreign care workers will also be stopped from bringing dependents into Britain following proposed reform to the health and social sare visa.

Controversially, those wishing to bring their spouse to the UK will now have to earn 38,700, a significant increase on the current figure of 18,600.

Foreign spouses already in the UK could be told to leave when their family visa is next up for renewal as the new minimum income for eligible households is also increased to 38,700.

The government will also increase the earning threshold for overseas workers by nearly 50% from 26,200 to 38,700 and the shortage occupation list will be overhauled to end a 20 per cent salary discount

Official figures from April show the median gross annual earnings for full-time employees in the UK was 34,963.

The changes are due to come into effect in spring and will apply when existing visas for foreign spouses come up for renewal.

What reaction has there been?

The plan has been met with backlash from both politicians and Brits affected by the changes.

Former Tory minister Gavin Barwell said it was both morally wrong and unconservative to say that only the wealthiest can fall in love, marry someone and then bring them to the UK.

Martha Cullen Close with her boyfriend Ysmael Paredes (Martha Cullen Close /PA Wire)

A British student said she is now considering leaving the UK because the governments plan would prevent her boyfriend from moving to live with her.

Martha Cullen Close, 21, who is studying Hispanic law at Leeds University, said: Obviously, thats not my ideal situation. I dont want to do that. I want to be able to work and live in England, but I cant.

The prime ministers spokesperson defended the plans on Tuesday: The family immigration rules contain a provision for exceptional circumstances where there would be unjustifiably harsh consequences for the applicant, their partner, a relevant child or another family member if their application were to be refused.

No examples were given and the spokesperson said applications would be considered on a case-by-case basis.
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The UK is set to unveil its first-ever Windrush museum after Baroness Floella Benjamin led calls in the House of Lords for a dedicated site.

Photographs, passports and letters from Windrush pioneers will feature alongside other personal belongings from families who came to Britain from the Caribbean 75 years ago while interactive displays will feature their migration stories.

The site, which will be a permanent part of the National Maritime Museum, is the result of a joint venture between the online National Windrush Museum (NWM) and the Royal Museums Greenwich.

The initial focus will be to research and document the impact of Windrush fashion and style and its influence on Britain.

Dr Les Johnson, who founded the NWM in 2021, said: At the heart of our mission lies a deep connection to documenting stories of resilience, pioneers, achievements, and invaluable contributions to the UKs social fabric.

This canvas is both exciting and valuable as it commissions work to reinterpret these historical narratives in the context of modern life.

This partnership represents not just a collaboration but a significant opportunity to advance the National Windrush Museum mission sharing the stories of the Windrush generation and their descendants.

Dr Les Johnson, founder of the National Windrush Museum, and Paddy Rodgers of RMG (National Windrush Museum)

A Memorandum of Understanding between the museums was signed in the House of Lords with Baroness Benjamin, former news anchor Moira Stuart, entrepreneur Levi Roots and actor Rudolph Walker all present. A date for the opening of the new museum has not yet been set.

Baroness Benjamin tweeted afterwards: This signing ... proves everything happens for a reason. Because I made a speech celebrating Caribbean history in which I described the idea of creating a Windrush museum as a great legacy. Who would have thought?

There are approximately 2,500 museums in Britain  however, there is no Windrush museum or building that exclusively highlights the legacies of Windrush pioneers or their descendants.

Baroness Benjamin, former news anchor Moira Stuart, entrepreneur Levi Roots and actor Rudolph Walker were all present (Rudolph Walker/X)

Dr Johnson set up the National Windrush Museum to research, document and preserve the legacy of the Windrush generation and their successors.

Activities outlined in the MOU include the development of new programmes for schools and young people and collaborative research and digital media initiatives.

The signing of the document coincides with the 75th anniversary of the arrival of the Empire Windrush  an event that was marked by national commemorative celebrations throughout 2023.

It is a privilege to be able to sign this document and I look forward to a successful relationship with the National Windrush Museum, said Paddy Rodgers, CEO of Royal Museums Greenwich.
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Heavy rain is set to batter large parts of the country on Thursday, with the Met Office issuing 10 new weather warnings.

Parts of southern, central and northern England, as well as Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are expected to experience downpours after days of ice and snow caused disruption, school closures and power cuts. A major incident was declared in Cumbria last week as hundreds were left without electricity after heavy snow.

Temperatures have eased slightly after days of sub-zero weather, giving way to more than 100 flood warnings and alerts across the UK.

Vast swathes of the country will be affected by heavy rain causing disruption to travel, homes and businesses (The Met Office)

With more rain expected on Thursday, the Met Office says roads could be flooded, with further power cuts and travel delays expected. In southern England, areas including Portsmouth and Salisbury, and central England including Birmingham, are warned that flooding of homes and businesses is likely.

The Environment Agency currently has 24 flood warnings and 114 flood alerts in place, as of Wednesday.

A meteorologist at the Met Office said there would be a wet and damp start to the day on Thursday morning, with rain turning heavier and more persistent as the day goes on.

Wind is expected to pick up in the later afternoon, particularly with coastal gales for part of western Scotland.

The Met Office has advised people to check if they are at risk of flooding (Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire)

Milder air will be restricted to western parts of the country with temperatures of 11 and 12C while the rest of the country is expected to face much cooler temperatures of around 5C along with spells of heavy rain.

Rain is expected to build up over western and southern hills across the country with parts of south Wales, northern Ireland, south east and eastern Scotland affected.

It is expected to fall over hills and saturated ground which could cause some issues according to a Met Office meterologist.

Hundreds of homes in Cumbria were left without power after snowfall over the weekend (Getty Images)

The Environment Agency said: Local flooding is possible from rivers and surface water later today across most parts of England, but not in London or the East of England.

Local flooding is possible from rivers and surface water on Thursday in the South West with river flooding continuing into Friday. Properties may flood and there may be travel disruption.

Local flooding is probable from rivers and surface water in parts of Cumbria, the Midlands and the South East on Thursday with flooding from rivers possible into Friday in all these areas and into Saturday through the Midlands. Further local flooding is possible quite widely across parts of England through the weekend due to further rain.

Land, roads and some properties could flood and there could be travel disruption.
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Veteran TV executive Samir Shah, the co-author of Boris Johnsons controversial race report, has been named the new chairman of the BBC.

The role was vacated by Richard Sharp in a cloud of controversy earlier this year, when the ex-Goldman Sachs banker quit after failing to declare his link to an 800,000 loan made to Mr Johnson.

Mr Shah said he was delighted at taking up the role, while culture secretary Lucy Frazer said she had no doubt he will provide the support and scrutiny that the BBC needs.

The new chairman is best-known for his role co-authoring a much-criticised 2021 race report that dismissed the idea that Britain was institutionally racist.

Mr Shah strongly defended the findings of the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities report  and claimed the response of the race lobby had failed to understand it.

He argued that class, poverty, family circumstance and geography played as big a role as race in life outcomes.

Mr Shah also said there was no doubt that racial disparity still existed  but insisted that racism was not sweeping and was diminishing in the UK today.

Commissioned in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests, the report found that institutional racism doesnt exist. Some commissioners later claimed officials at No 10 helped rewrite the conclusion of the report.

Richard Sharp gave up BBC chair role after he breached rules (PA Media)

Dr Shah said on Wednesday that he was delighted to be leading the BBC  describing the broadcaster as one of our strongest calling cards on soft power.

Most recently, the television veteran was chief executive of award-winning production company Juniper TV, which makes a number of political and current affairs programmes.

He was previously the BBCs head of television current affairs, and later ran the BBCs political journalism department at Millbank.

Mr Shahs predecessor Mr Sharp was forced to resign in April after he failed to disclose that he had played a role in securing an 800,000 loan to then-PM Mr Johnson.

He was found to have facilitated a meeting with Sam Blyth, the multimillionaire Canadian businessman who was also a distant cousin of Mr Johnson.

Having initially defended his actions in front of MPs, Mr Sharp later accepted the findings of an independent report, which found he breached the governance code for public appointments.

The inquiry ordered by the government found that Mr Sharp had failed to disclose potential conflicts of interest during his application to become BBC chair. Mr Sharp  also a Tory donor  said he was standing down in the interests of the broadcaster.

Dame Elan Closs Stephens has been the acting BBC chairwoman since Mr Sharps exit.
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Former British prime minister Boris Johnson appeared before the Covid inquiry on Wednesday morning for the first of two days of questioning about his leadership of the country through the pandemic from 2020 to 2022.

Mr Johnsons evidence had hardly begun when four protesters had to be ejected from the hearing room, saying his apologies for the mistakes of his administration were insufficient and had led to the loss of lives.

The former PM insisted he had done his level best to respond to the needs of the nation but that errors were inevitable due to the constantly evolving nature of the threat posed by the respiratory virus.

Mr Johnson faced tough questions on the stand and sometimes struggled to give credible answers under pressure from the inquirys counsel Hugo Keith KC.

Here are 10 points on which he found himself on a sticky wicket during Wednesdays evidence.

Insists on commitment to transparency

Asked what his approach had been to the disclosure of his own Covid-related emails, WhatsApps and notes, Mr Johnson said: Ive done my best to give everything of any conceivable relevance.

He was asked about an exchange of messages from 20 December 2021 between cabinet secretary Simon Case and his former principal private secretary Martin Reynolds in which Mr Case wrote: PM is mad if he doesnt think his WhatsApps will become public via Covid inquiry  but he was clearly not in the mood for that discussion tonight!

Mr Johnson said: I dont remember that conversation to which the cabinet secretary is referring and Ive handed over all the relevant WhatsApps.

Cannot account for lost WhatsApp messages

About 5,000 WhatsApp messages on Mr Johnsons phone from 30 January 2020 to June 2020 were unavailable to the inquiry.

Asked why, Mr Johnson answered: I dont know the exact reason, but it looks as though its something to do with the app going down and then coming up again, but somehow automatically erasing all the things between that date when it went down and the moment when it was last backed up.

Mr Keith said a technical report provided by Mr Johnsons solicitors suggested there may have been a factory reset at the end of January 2020 followed by an attempt to reinstate the contents in June 2020, but the former prime minister denied knowledge of that.

I dont remember any such thing, he said.

Mr Johnson confirmed he had made plain during the legal battle between the Cabinet Office and the inquiry that his messages should be disclosed.

He added: Can I, for the avoidance of doubt, make it absolutely clear I havent removed any WhatsApps from my phone and Ive given you everything that I think you need.

Admits mistakes made

Mr Johnson acknowledged that his government may have made mistakes in handling the pandemic.

So many people suffered, so many people lost their lives, he said.

Inevitably in the course of trying to handle a very, very difficult pandemic in which we had to balance appalling harms on either side of the decision, we may have made mistakes.

He continued: Inevitably we got some things wrong [but] I think we were doing our best at the time, given what we knew, given the information I had available to me at the time, I think we did our level best.

Were there things that we should have done differently? Unquestionably.

Declines to take blame for excess deaths

Mr Johnson said he was not sure whether government decision-making had led to materially a larger number of excess deaths as a result of the pandemic.

The former PM told Mr Keith: I cant give you the answer to that question, Im not sure.

He questioned the lead counsels statement that the UK was among the worst performers in Europe, insisting Britain was well down the European table and well down the world table.

Mr Keith responded that in western Europe, we were one of the worst off, if not the second worst off.

Mr Johnson, pressed again on why the UK had such a rate of excess deaths, said: Irrespective of government action, we have an elderly population, extremely elderly population. We do suffer, sadly, from lots of Covid-related comorbidities and we are a very, very densely populated country. That did not help.

Denies Dominic Cummings too powerful

Mr Johnson rejected suggestions that his government was designed to place Dominic Cummings, along with himself, as decision-makers while ministers were largely irrelevant to policy or execution.

[Sajid] Javid has said in his witness statement that the Cabinet was designed, in his view, to place Dominic Cummings and the prime minister as the decision-makers, to centralise power in Number 10 and, in his own witness statement, Mr Cummings has said that the cabinet was largely irrelevant to policy or execution on account of the leaks, your inability to chair it and because it was seen by No 10 as not being a serious place for serious discussion, Mr Keith said.

Mr Johnson replied: I dont think thats true. I think there were some really excellent cabinet discussions about the trade-offs.

But he claimed that the cabinet as a whole was more reluctant to impose non-pharmaceutical interventions than he was.

That wasnt true for every member of the cabinet but that would be a general comment, he added.

Admits Sage guidance rarely read

Mr Johnson told the inquiry he may have only read Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) minutes once or twice.

Asked whether he ever read the minutes, the former prime minister said: I think I did once or twice look at the  maybe more than that  looked at what Sage had actually said and Sage certainly produced a lot of documentation.

But I think that the CSA [chief scientific adviser] and CMO [chief medical officer] did an outstanding job of leading Sage and distilling their views and conveying them to me.

He added: in retrospect it may have been valuable to hear the Sage conversation unpasteurised itself, but I was more than content with the very clear summaries that I was getting from the CSA and the CMO.

Mr Keith countered: Did you not think of looking at the scientific horse in the mouth and seeing what was actually said by the governments primary scientific advisory committee on these issues when you, as now appears to be the case, you became engaged particularly in the debate of behavioural fatigue? Why didnt you call for the primary material?

Mr Johnson replied: I think thats a good question. I was very, very much impressed by and dependent on the CMO and the CSA, both of whom are outstanding experts in their field and it felt to me that I couldnt do better than that.

Admits meetings too male-dominated

Mr Johnson conceded that the gender balance of his top team should have been better.

He said he had a gender balance in his staff while mayor of London, describing his office as very harmonious.

I think that the gender balance of my team should have been better, he told the inquiry of his time as prime minister during the pandemic.

I think sometimes during the pandemic, too many meetings were too male-dominated if Im absolutely honest with you.

Defends retaining Matt Hancock

Mr Johnson defended keeping former health secretary Matt Hancock in his post, despite calls from his aide Dominic Cummings that he should have been sacked.

Mr Johnson said: If youre prime minister, you are constantly being lobbied by somebody to sack somebody else. Its just what, Im afraid, happens and its part of life.

He acknowledged Mr Cummings had a low opinion of Mr Hancock but I thought he was wrong.

I stuck by the health secretary. I thought the health secretary worked very hard.

He said Mr Hancock may have had defects [but] I thought that he was doing his best in very difficult circumstances and I thought he was a good communicator.

Dismisses criticism of senior officials

Mr Johnson dismissed the exasperated messages exchanged between senior officials Mark Sedwill and Mr Case.

In July 2020, Mr Case, the then-head official in Downing Street and now the cabinet secretary, said. Ive never seen a bunch of people less well-equipped to run a country, in a message to Sir Mark, who was cabinet secretary at the time.

But Mr Johnson said Whitehall mandarins would have said similar pretty fruity things about the Thatcher administration if their unexpurgated messages had been available in the same way as WhatsApp exchanges now.

He said WhatsApp messages tended to be ephemeral, it tends to the pejorative and the hyperbolical.

I think that the worst vice, in my view, would have been to have had an operation where everybody was so deferential and so reluctant to make waves that they never expressed their opinion, they never challenged and they never doubted.

It was much more important to have a group of people who are willing to doubt themselves and to doubt each other. And I think that that was creatively useful rather than the reverse.

Admits Covid threat underestimated

Mr Johnson conceded that the wider government had underestimated the threat posed by Covid-19.

He told the inquiry: I think that it would certainly be fair to say of me, the entire Whitehall establishment, scientific community included, our advisers included, that we underestimated the scale and the pace of the challenge. You can see that very clearly in those early days in March.

We were all collectively underestimating how fast it had already spread in the UK. We put the first peak too late, we thought it would be May/June  that was totally wrong. I dont blame the scientists for that at all. That was the feeling and it just turned out to be wrong.

Additional reporting by agencies
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From partygate to wallpapergate, Boris Johnson has never been far from controversy.

The former prime minister stepped down from Number 10 in July 2022, saying: No one in politics is remotely indispensable.

Speaking outside Downing Street at the time before stepping down as PM, Mr Johnson thanked those who voted Conservative and said the reason he fought so long to remain in office was because he thought it was my job, my duty and my obligation to you".

After many scandals and an investigation into his conduct, Mr Johnson bid farewell for the second time in early June 2023 - but this time it was as a member of parliament.

The former Uxbridge and South Ruislip MP claimed he was forced out of parliament and branded a probe into his conduct as a hitjob. He also said the Committee of Privileges was determined to use the proceedings against me to drive me out of parliament.

So, since leaving both positions as PM and MP - what has Mr Johnson been up to lately?

He is due to attend the Covid inquiry

Boris Johnson is due to attend the Covid inquiry (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

A Covid-19 inquiry has been launched which looks into the British governments response to the coronavirus pandemic and seeks to understand the decisions made that led to strict lockdown measures.

It also looks at how our evolving understanding of the virus guided policy, what the government got right and what mistakes were made, with a view to being better prepared for future pandemics and public health emergencies.

Mr Johnson will be next in the hot seat at the inquiry, in one of the most anticipated hearings yet to come.

The hearing is due to take place on Wednesday 6 December from 10am. Mr Johnson will answer questions about the government and what measures it took during the pandemic.

It will also offer the ex-PM a chance to answer criticism of his handling of the pandemic.

So far, the probe has painted a damning picture of Mr Johnsons operation, with an exchange of secret WhatsApp messages revealing the chaos between government officials.

Becoming a columnist for MailOnline

Just a few days after announcing his leave as MP, Mr Johnson confirmed he was joining the Daily Mail as a columnist.

However, his writing endeavours were not taken well. After his announcement, the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba), suggested it was not notified about Mr Johnsons new role - which is a big problem.

Former ministers who have left the Government in the past two years must apply to the independent watchdog before taking up a new appointment or role.

An Acoba spokeswoman told the PA news agency: We havent had an application and we will be writing to Mr Johnson.

The former PM has continued to produce work for the outlet, with his latest take being on the royal rumble and Omid Scobies bombshell book, Endgame.

Awarded honorary degree in Lviv

Zelensky (R) gives an award to Boris Johnson in 2022 (Getty Images)

Mr Johnson jetted off to Ukraine in September this year to receive an honorary degree.

He was awarded Doctor Honoris Causa of the Ivan Franko National University of Lviv  this translates to for the sake of honour.

Mr Johnson was welcomed by the Mayor of Lviv, Andriy Sadovyi who described the former PM as  a great friend of Ukraine.

Mr Johnson was a loyal supporter of Kyiv during his time as prime minister and has often visited the country both before and after stepping down in July 2022.

In another recent surprise visit in January 2023, Mr Johnson said: It is a privilege to visit Ukraine at the invitation of President Zelensky. The suffering of the people of Ukraine has gone on for too long.

He added: The only way to end this war is for Ukraine to win  and to win as fast as possible. This is the moment to double down and to give the Ukrainians all the tools they need to finish the job. The sooner Putin fails, the better for Ukraine and for the whole world.

Read more on Mr Johnsons upcoming appearance at the Covid-19 inquiry here
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Boris Johnson is expected to tell the Covid inquiry he unquestionably made mistakes when he begins his gruelling two-day grilling on his handling of the crisis on Wednesday.

The public inquirys security has been stepped up for Mr Johnsons appearance in west London, with dozens of bereaved family members from all over Britain expected to hold a defiant vigil as he turns up to give evidence.

The former PM is expected to offer an unreserved apology at the the historic hearings most hotly-anticipated session, after a series of bombshell revelations about his activities in recent weeks.

Mr Johnson has been urged by opposition parties and campaigners to tell the truth about his own behaviour and his governments handling of the crisis.

Labours Nick Thomas-Symonds said Mr Johnson should provide straight answers and integrity  both of which he failed to provide in office. And the Liberal Democrats Daisy Cooper said families deserve the truth about exactly what went on behind closed doors.

Matt Fowler, co-founder of Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice UK, added: Johnson will appear at the inquiry tomorrow with his claim that he got the big calls right already entirely debunked. We hope to see Johnson challenged on these clear falsehoods when he appears in front of the inquiry he desperately tried to avoid having tomorrow.

But any contrition will not stop a barrage of questions. Mr Johnson will be asked about Partygate and claims he oversaw a toxic culture at No 10, accusations he was weak and dithered over lockdowns, and the tensions with key figures such as Rishi Sunak, Matt Hancock and Dominic Cummings.

Boris Johnsons Partygate behaviour and toxic No 10 culture

The former PM is expected to apologise, but it remains to be seen what exactly he will apologise for. Mr Johnson was utterly defiant over Partygate during his grilling by the privileges committee hearing in the summer  defending leaving dos as essential for work purposes.

Mr Johnson, fined for attending his own birthday party in June 2020, also told MPs that: People who say that we were partying in lockdown simply do not know what they are talking about. He may be asked what impact Partygate and associated scandals  such as Mr Hancocks kiss and the Barnard Castle saga  had on public compliance with the rules.

Helen McNamara, former deputy cabinet secretary, told the inquiry it would be hard to pick one day when Covid regulations were followed at No 10. She also said Mr Johnson oversaw a toxic culture  claiming there was sexist treatment of women at meetings.

In WhatsApp messages, cabinet secretary Simon Case said dealing with Mr Johnsons team during the Covid crisis was basically feral and dealing them was like taming wild animals.

Boris Johnson faces two-day grilling at Covid inquiry (Getty)

Claims Boris said let the bodies pile high and old people must accept their fate

Mr Cummings has claimed that he heard Mr Johnson say he would rather let the bodies pile high than sanction a second lockdown in the autumn of 2020  an accusation Mr Johnson has already denied.

There are other remarks it may not be easy for the former Tory leader to evade. Former chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said Mr Johnson suggested in August 2020 that Covid was natures way of dealing with old people and that people accept their fate.

Sir Patricks diary reveals that Mr Johnson started an October 2020 meeting by arguing for letting it all rip  accepting there would be more casualties and adding: They have had a good innings.

Boris Johnson pictured with his ex-chief adviser Dominic Cummings (PA Archive)

Questions on whether he or Dominic Cummings made key decisions

Mr Johnson will have to explain why Mr Cummings was apparently handed so much power. Former cabinet minister Sajid Javid told the inquiry that Mr Johnson was not in charge of what was happening and was largely happy with Mr Cummings running the government.

Mr Javid said the top No 10 strategist would not stop until he had burnt the house down. Matt Hancock also described Mr Cummings as malign actor that created a culture of fear across government.

Mr Johnson will be grilled on his relationship with Mr Cummings, whether he allowed him to create a dysfunctional culture in government, and how the pair fell out towards the end of 2020.

Key figures say flip-flopper Boris changed his mind on lockdowns

Mr Johnson will be grilled on whether he was too slow going into the first lockdown in late March. The ex-PM was dubbed the trolley by Mr Cummings about claims he oscillated wildly and unhelpfully over a second lockdown in the autumn.

The ex-PM is expected to admit the government were initially too complacent to respond to the crisis. But he is set to deny claims by Mr Cummings that he was distracted by his efforts to write a book on Shakespeare in February 2020.

It remains to be seen whether he will agree with Mr Hancocks claim that many lives would have been saved if the UK had gone into the first lockdown three weeks before 23 March. Mr Johnson will reportedly claim Prof Chris Whitty  the chief medical office  was instrumental in arguing for a delay.

The most damning evidence so far, perhaps, has come from Sir Patrick and Mr Case. The chief scientist said Mr Johnson was flip flopping and all over the place in the summer of 2020. And the nations top civil servant said in September 2020 that the then-PM cannot lead.

Boris accused of being bamboozled by Covid science

Mr Johnson was bamboozled by the science and had to have key details explained to him repeatedly, Sir Patrick told the Covid inquiry. The then-PM struggled to understand graphs and just could not get some scientific concepts.

Sir Patrick wrote in his diary: Watching the PM get his head around stats is awful. He finds relative and absolute risk almost impossible to understand.

More important for the inquiry KC to get at is whether Mr Johnson ignore scientific advice. He will have to explain why he rejected a circuit-breaker lockdown in September 2020. And he could be asked what he understood by the herd immunity concept and whether it influenced his thinking.

Boris allegedly asked if a hairdryer up the nose would kill Covid

Mr Cummings told the Covid inquiry that Mr Johnson shared with officials a YouTube video  since taken down  of a man blowing a special hairdryer up his nose to kill Covid.

The ex-adviser said in his written evidence that the Mr Johnsons circulating the hairdryer video  and asking top officials if it was true  was a low point amid fears he could have been giving false information to the media.

Boris Johnson and Matt Hancock both found to have broken rules (PA)

Boris relationship with his health secretary Matt Hancock

Mr Johnson may have wanted to keep Mr Hancock in post as health secretary as a sacrifice for the Covid inquiry, Mr Cummings has claimed.

The ex-adviser wanted Mr Hancock sacked and told the then-PM in May 2020: Theres no way the guy can stay. Hes lied his way through this and killed people and dozens and dozens of people have seen it.

But Mr Johnson will offer support for Mr Hancock at the inquiry, according to The Times, and will insist his old colleague was doing a good job in very difficult circumstances.

Questions on whether Eat Out to Help Out fuelled Covids spread

Mr Johnson will no doubt be asked about his relationship with Mr Sunak, and the then-chancellors controversial Eat Out to Help Out scheme in the late summer of 20202.

Prof Whitty dubbed it Eat out to help out the virus, while Mr Hancock said he kept his own concerns about the scheme to boost the restaurant trade out of the news because he believed in a team effort.

Despite their later bitter fall-out over Mr Sunaks resignation and leadership push, the two top government figures do not appear to have been regularly at odds on Covid policy.

They both appear to have had reservations about a second lockdown. According to Sir Patrick, at the October 2020 meeting in Mr Johnson argued for letting it all rip, Mr Cummings claimed that Rishi thinks just let people die and thats okay.
The Covid inquiry has proved to be a trial of reputations for the big beasts of the 2020 government and none more so than for the then prime minister Boris Johnson who appears for the first time on Wednesday. His handling of two days of intense questioning may prove the most important 48 hours of his public life as he surely knows it will shape how his three-year premiership is judged by history.

More immediately, it will also dictate whether he can attempt a spectacular political comeback  his supporter-in-chief Andrew Gimson revealing that even now he burns with a desire to prove the decision by his own MPs to sack him was a mistake. Johnsons intention is apparently to present a strong case for being given a second chance at power  and that he has been greatly wronged.

With Labour a massive 23 points ahead in the polls, he is said to believe that he could return (just like his hero Silvio Berlusconi did in Italy) as his partys only possible hope of salvation  and his own. In truth, there is probably nothing Johnson fears more than a shrinking life of small children, overseas speaking engagements, the odd appearance on GB News and the boos he received from fellow diners at Moro, a Hackney restaurant where his son Theo had been working. Even rumours that he might be parachuted in to edit The Daily Telegraph have recently faded.
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Rishi Sunak has been handed a major boost after EU officials agreed to delay post-Brexit tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) ahead of a looming cliff edge deadline.

The UK government had been urging Brussels to push back the costly new tariff rules set to come into force in January 2024 as part of Boris Johnsons Brexit trade deal.

On Wednesday the European Commission said it wanted to delay the rules  set to hit the electric cars trade between the EU and Britain  by three years.

The commission also said it was setting aside an additional 3bn (2.6bn) to boost the EUs battery manufacturing industry  a move designed to counter Chinas dominance in batteries.

Mr Johnsons Brexit Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) agreed that, to qualify for zero tariffs, at least 45 per cent of the value of EVs need to be from the EU or Britain.

Import tariffs of 10 per cent were set to apply on companies for falling short of those requirements in their cars and other vehicles.

The Independent revealed in October that British industry bosses feared the changes could increase the price of electric vehicles in the UK by 6,000.

Given batteries represent 30 to 40 per cent of a cars value and that most are from China, carmakers argued they would not have been able to meet the content requirements.

Rishi Sunak with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen agreeing deal on Northern Ireland earlier this year (PA Wire)

The new EU proposal is to extend the first transition period by three years to 2027 when the full local content requirements of the TCA will apply. A second planned transition period will not apply.

Thierry Breton, the influential European commissioner, had said in September that it would be wrong to give in to pressure from one industry. If something has been negotiated, it shouldnt be changed, he said on the Brexit deal.

But European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic  who oversees EU relations with Britain  said on Wednesday that Russias invasion of Ukraine and soaring energy prices meant that EU battery production had not scaled up as planned.

Mr Sefcovic also cited the subsidy schemes offered by Europes rivals for the change in heart among top Brussels officials.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt and Rishi Sunak had been pushing for delay to car tariffs (Getty)

The EU had been warned of an existential threat posed by new rules of origin by carmakers. The UKs Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) previously called for a delay until 2027.

The VDA  the lobby group for Germanys car industry  ramped up the pressure by saying we must urgently make adjustments to the Brexit deal.

The breakthrough comes after Mr Sunak managed to clear up some of the post-Brexit mess by agreeing a deal for the UK to rejoin the EUs 85bn Horizon science research scheme. It was formally agreed this week.

Earlier this year, the Tory leader agreed the Windsor Framework with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen to ease post-Brexit trading problems in Northern Ireland.

Ms Von der Leyen last week described it as a new beginning for old friends. She also suggested that young Britons could still reverse Brexit by deciding to rejoin the EU in the years ahead.
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Watch as David Cameron meets with US House Speaker Mike Johnson on Wednesday, 6 December as part of his first visit to the US since becoming foreign secretary.

As part of the trip, Lord Cameron was due to hold a series of bilateral meetings - he was expected to speak with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, as well as Republican and Democratic members of Congress.

According to the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the former prime minister's discussions will focus on supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.

It comes after Joe Biden urged Congress to pass his national security supplemental request, including funding to support Ukraine, earlier on Wednesday.

The US president's administration has warned Congress that money for the European country will run out by the end of the year as Russia's invasion continues.

Earlier this week, Mr Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan declared that not passing the additional aid would make it easier for Putin to prevail."
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The three-year public inquiry looking into the governments handling of the Covid-19 pandemic - has already seen damning revelations, WhatsApp messages and statements which have exposed the government and its failings.

Former prime minister Boris Johnson is at the centre of all of this, with a two-day hearing set to commence on Wednesday 6 December.

The team leading the Covid-19 inquiry includes Baroness Heather Hallet, a former Court of Appeal judge - who is chair of the inquiry. Ben Connah, inquiry Secretary and Martin Smith who works as a Solicitor to the inquiry.

Hugo Keith is currently leading as Counsel to the inquiry and plays a significant role in the investigation. So far, Mr Keigh has by no means made the probe an easy ride for those in the hot seat.

Heres everything you need to know about Hugo Keith and the Covid-19 inquiry

Who is Mr Keith and what are some of his key moments?

Hugo Keith KCs role is to give independent legal advice to Baroness Hallet, present the evidence, question the witnesses and lead the wider counsel.

In November, Michael Gove was shut down during his Covid inquiry hearing for suggesting the virus may have been man-made.

Michael Gove apologises for Government mistakes during pandemic. (Reuters)

When Mr Gove was asked about the governments lack of preparation for Covid as the pandemic unfolded, he admitted the government was not as well prepared as we should have been.

The nature of our preparation was for a flu pandemic, he told the inquiry.

He then went on to suggest the virus may be man-made adding: It turned out that we were not as well prepared as we should have been, ideally.

The nature of the fact the virus was novel  and this probably goes beyond the remit of the inquiry, but there is a significant body of judgment that believes the virus itself was man-made. And that presents a set of challenges as well.

Mr Keith stepped in and told Mr Gove it was not the place to discuss the matter.

It forms no part of the terms of reference of this inquiry Mr Gove, to address that somewhat divisive issue, so we are not going to go there, he said.

Lead counsel KC also grilled Mr Gove about WhatsApp messages sent by Cabinet Secretary Simon Case saying working with Mr Johnsons team was like "taming wild animals".

Matt Hancocks Covid hearing

Former health secretary Matt Hancock giving evidence to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry (PA Wire)

In another hearing, Mr Keith questioned former health secretary Matt Hancock on his claim that he first told the then PM, Mr Johnson to call a nationwide lockdown on 13 March 2020.

Mr Keith then showed Mr Hancock his own book, Pandemic Diaries, and asked why he had not made a note of the intervention at the time.

Mr Keith said: Its not in your diary, so-called, I should say, Mr Hancock. The entry for March 13 makes no reference to you telling the prime minister this vital piece of information that he should lock down immediately.

Telling the prime minister of this country, for the first time, that he had to call an immediate lockdown, is surely worthy of some recollection, is it not?, he asked.

Mr Hancock responded and said: I didnt have full access to my papers for the writing of that, and this came to light in researching the papers ahead of this inquiry.

He also referenced an email from himself to Mr Johnson which he said was a suppression strategy to tackle coronavirus.

Mr Keith, highly unimpressed by Mr Hancocks reply, said: The inquiry is well aware of that email Do you use the word immediate or lockdown?.

In response to Mr Keith, Mr Hancock said he was unable to answer the question as he did not have the email in front of him.

Matt Hancock Vs Dominic Cummings

During his hearing, Mr Hancock was also shown a WhatsApp message he sent to then-Downing Street adviser Dominic Cummings in which he said the Government needed to up a gear on winning the public argument.

This included telling the public that we are better prepared than other countries and that the UKs contain phase had been better than other countries.

Mr Hancock also accused Mr Cummings of creating a culture of fear in government which undermined the pandemic response.

The former health secretary also said Mr Cummings was a malign actor who subjected his staff to abuse during the pandemic.

Was it unpleasant? Yes, it was unpleasant for a whole load of my staff as well who were subject to this sort of abuse from the chief adviser, Mr Hancock told the inquiry.

It went further, wider than I thought at the time, but my job was to lead the health and care system, the whole thing.

Mr Hancock further rejected claims he lied to colleagues about having a plan for the outbreak, describing these as false allegations.

Instead, he pointed the finger at Mr Cummings for, he suggested, presiding over an atmosphere in which blame was attributed rather than allowing people to spend all of their effort solving the problems.

It was deeply, deeply frustrating weve discussed the structural problem which was essentially an adviser trying to take executive authority away from the prime minister for a period until the cabinet secretary stopped it and put in place the MIG (Ministerial Implementation Group) process, Mr Hancock said.

Mr Cummings later rebuked Mr Hancocks account on X/Twitter, accusing him of flat out lying by claiming to have pushed for a lockdown on March 13.

The former aide wrote: Hancock flat out lying to Inquiry claiming he privately pushed for lockdown on 13th with PM  but admits theres no evidence for it  and again on 14th in mtngs  when evidence from ALL others & paper trail is that he was still pushing Plan A herd immunity 13-15th  and his Perm Sec was still pushing Plan A on 18/3 to Cabinet Secretary (email uncovered by media)  the reason I physically stopped him coming to the second mtng on 14/3 was cos he was arguing AGAINST a change of plan & bullshitting everybody about herd immunity & best prepared in the world (see evidence from multiple witnesses).

Additional reporting from PA agency
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Sir Keir Starmer would be welcomed into the Conservative Party with open arms, Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg has said.

The top Tory and arch-Brexiteer said the Labour leaders recent article in the Telegraph, in which Sir Keir praised Margaret Thatcher, sounded like a Conservative minister launching a leadership bid.

Sir Keirs article, under the headline voters have been betrayed on Brexit and immigration, read like something by the most ardent of Eurosceptics or a Trussite, Sir Jacob added.

He added: As a Tory member, I would like to extend a welcome to the Leader of the Opposition with open arms.

The Tory former minister was commenting after Rishi Sunak suggested Nigel Farage would be welcome to join the Conservatives  insisting his party was a broad church.

The more pressing question is not whether Nigel Farage will join the Tory Party, but whether Keir Starmer is planning to defect and launch a Tory leadership bid, he told GB News.

A Labour spokesman said: What Jacob Rees-Mogg knows is that the travel is all in the opposite direction with former Tory voters backing Keir Starmers changed Labour Party to end thirteen years of Tory decline and give Britain its future back.

The Labour leader sparked a backlash with his article, in which he said Mrs Thatcher had effected meaningful change and set loose Britains natural entrepreneurialism.

He also sought to outflank Mr Sunak by appealing to Tory voters on Brexit and migration.

In a shift from his staunch opposition to Britain leaving the EU, Sir Keir said the Tories have failed to realise the possibilities of Brexit.

He said he profoundly disagrees with the idea Labour should duck topics such as small boat crossings and immigration.

And he added: This is a government that was elected on a promise that immigration would come down and the British people would always [be] in control. For immigration to then triple is more than just yet another failure  it is a betrayal of their promises.

Sir Jacob, who served as business secretary under Lizz Truss, said: A man wrote an article for The Telegraph last week entitled Voters have been betrayed on Brexit and Immigration.

This reads as if it were vintage Farage. The man in question went on to hail Margaret Thatcher, as the leader who dragged Britain out of its stupor by setting loose our natural entrepreneurialism.

He then went on to criticise the wasted money, the high debt and the record-high tax burden. He sounds as if he could be a member of the ERG!

Sir Jacob added: So, who is this man? This great Conservative-sounding figure? Is he a cabinet minister waiting in the wings for a Tory Party leadership bid? One setting out his stall  along with a number of other ministers who seem to be circling.

He must be among the most ardent of Eurosceptics, a member of the Go for Growth movement, a Thatcherite  a Trussite even  a capitalist, a sensible, free market Conservative.

But  the man Im referring to is not Nigel Farage, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss or even me, for that matter.

Im of course talking about the leader of the Labour party  the socialist party  Sir Keir Starmer.
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Rishi Sunak has ruled out a radical move to opt out of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR)  despite a rebellion by the Tory right that threatens his plan B Rwanda legislation.

It comes as Suella Braverman, sacked by Mr Sunak as home secretary last month, told the PM that he must ignore the ECHR and other human rights law or face electoral oblivion.

The Conservative party faces electoral oblivion in a matter of months if we introduce yet another bill that is destined to fail, she told the Commons. Do we fight for sovereignty or do we let our party die?

Mr Sunak is facing revolt by Ms Braverman and other hardliners who are pushing him go for full fat legislation by disapplying the ECHR in a bid to stop judges from blocking deportations.

But the PM has also been warned by a powerful group of Tory moderates that they cannot support his legislation if he does try to flout the ECHR  arguing that it would be red line that cannot be crossed.

Mr Sunak will try to appease the Tory right by disapplying parts of the UK Human Rights Act in the legislation  a move described by The Times as a middle way option.

The PM has also been warned he faces up to 10 moderate ministers quitting government if he uses emergency legislation to get around ECHR, according to The Telegraph.

Tory MPs on right  including members of the New Conservatives, Commons Sense Group and European Research Group  will convene a star chamber of legal experts to decide with the upcoming Rwanda legislation is tough enough to support.

Mark Francois, chair of the ERG, said Mr Sunaks plan B bill must fully respect the sovereignty of parliament and put their wishes to get flights in the air above international law.

However, Tory moderates in the One Nation caucus  which boasts around 100 MPs  have urged Mr Sunak to remain committed to both the ECHR and the UK Human Rights Act.

They too have warned of rebellion over the legislation expected to be set out on Thursday. Its chair Damian Green said Mr Sunak should think twice before overriding both the ECHR and HRA.

Rishi Sunak is under huge pressure to get flights to Rwanda under way (PA Wire)

Stephen Hammond, deputy chair, said moderate MPs would struggle to support a so-called full-fat option of flouting the ECHR, while fellow moderate Matt Warman MP said overriding the ECHR would be a red line.

As the Tory rift deepened, right-winger Simon Clarke, who wants to opt out of the ECHR, fired back at the moderates by tweeting: Failing to stop the boats would be a red line for a number of Conservatives  namely our voters.

Home secretary James Cleverly is thought to have met One Nation before his trip to Rwanda this week  angering the right-wing groups.

The Independent understands there has been no attempt by No 10 or ministers to reach out to Tories on the right. One senior MP said there would be no purpose in the bill if it fails to address human rights law to block legal challenges.

Suella Braverman set to add to pressure on Sunak in Commons speech (PA Wire)

Ms Braverman criticised Mr Sunak in her formal resignation statment in the Commons this afternoon, suggested that he had ignored her calls for an ECHR opt-out while in government.

She said it was time to thwart expansive UK and international human rights law and block off all routes of challenge with use of notwithstanding clauses in the Rwanda bill so judges are told to ignore the ECHR and HRA.

Some Tory MPs on the right submitted letters of no confidence in Mr Sunak on Wednesday, according to ITV presenter Robert Peston.

Conservatives from the Common Sense Group, New Conservatives and the ERG are set to meet again at 6pm this evening to discuss Mr Sunaks government Rwanda bill.

Immigration minister Robert Jenrick  an ally of Ms Braverman  is still pushing for the hardline, full fat approach, according to The Telegraph.

One option said to be under consideration is considered is giving ministers reserve powers in the legislation to ignore ECHR rulings if the court attempted to block the Rwanda policy  although opting out of the convention for asylum cases would not be automatic.

Mr Sunak could try to ward off a Tory rebellion against the bill by suggesting he is willing to consider pulling the UK out of the ECHR altogether if the courts again block Rwanda flights.

The row follows Mr Cleverlys move to sign another treaty with Rwanda. But Mr Cleverly still could not guarantee flights would leave by next spring, as Mr Sunak hopes  as he became the third minister in less than two years to sign an agreement with the African nation.

James Cleverly and Rwandan foreign minister Vincent Biruta sign the new treaty (PA Wire)

Mr Cleverly promised that the emergency legislation would come before parliament soon. He also said that he could see no reason why migrants could not be sent from the UK to Rwanda in the coming months.

Emergency legislation aimed at saving the Rwanda plan will do whatever it takes to protect the deal from further setbacks in the courts, a Home Office minister Chris Philp said on Wednesday. He said the bill will ensure the Rwanda deal is legally watertight.

But former Labour home secretary David Blunkett said the governments Rwanda deal was stupid and impractical. He told The House magazine that Labour should not engage in a bidding war with the Tories with deportation promises.

The UKs top court last month blocked the Rwanda policy over concerns that genuine refugees could be wrongly sent back to their countries of origin where they would face persecution.

In an attempt to rectify this, the new treaty means British and Commonwealth judges will preside over a newly established appeals process within Rwandas high court for exceptional cases.

Another key measure is a commitment that no-one will be removed by Rwanda to any other country except the UK. Experts from the UK will also be seconded to Rwanda to assist with the processing of asylum decisions.
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Rishi Sunaks premiership has been rocked by the resignation of immigration minister Robert Jenrick after the PM failed to appease Tory right-wingers with his emergency Rwanda legislation.

Home secretary James Cleverly unveiled a bill in the Commons to disapply the UK Human Rights Act in a bid to stop British judges from blocking the deportation of asylum seekers.

But the embattled Tory leader has not been able to head off a revolt by MPs on the right of the party, who are furious that the PM chose not to opt out of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

In his scathing resignation letter, Mr Jenrick told Mr Sunak he did not believe the new bill provides us with the best possible chances of success in getting the Rwanda flights to take off.

The hardliner made clear he wanted to bypass the ECHR  revealing that he had been pushing for the strongest possible bill that would put national interests above highly contested interpretations of international law.

In response, Mr Sunak branded the departure disappointing, but told Mr Jenrick in a letter he fears it was based on a fundamental misunderstanding of the situation.

Rishi Sunak is under pressure from both sides of the divided Tory party (PA Wire)

Labour said the latest chaotic chapter of Tory infighting showed why it was time for a change of power. The Liberal Democrats said Mr Sunak had lost control of government, as another minister flees this sinking ship.

Mr Sunak now faces the near-impossible task of winning votes from both the Tory right, who wanted a full fat crackdown on the ECHR, and moderate MPs in the One Nation group who warn they cannot back legislation that flouts human rights law.

Adding to the PMs woes, the sacked home secretary Suella Braverman issued a stinging attack on Mr Sunak  warning that he faces electoral oblivion if he fails to get Rwanda flights off the ground before the next election.

The new Sunak bill includes provisions to disapply relevant parts of the Human Rights Act so they cannot be factored into court decisions on deportation cases  but does not try to disapply the ECHR.

However, the legislation will ensure UK ministers retain the decision on whether or not to comply with interim orders from the European Court of Human Rights  the Strasbourg body that oversees the ECHR.

In yet another headache for Mr Sunak, the Rwandan government immediately responded to the move by warning that it could pull out of the deal if the UK fails to comply with the highest standards of international law.

The east-central African countrys foreign affairs minister Vincent Biruta warned: Without lawful behaviour by the UK, Rwanda would not be able to continue with the Migration and Economic Development Partnership.

Jenrick had pushed for stronger version of the new Rwanda bill (Getty)

Mr Sunak defended his plans at a showdown meeting of the 1922 Committee of Tory backbenchers on Wednesday evening  but failed to keep the right-wingers onside.

A source close to Ms Braverman made clear that the bill doesnt come close to meeting her tests. It is fatally flawed, the ally said. It is a further betrayal of Tory voters.

Some Tory right-wingers submitted letters of no confidence in Mr Sunak on Wednesday, according to ITV. Ex-minister Andrea Jenkyns, an ardent Boris Johnson loyalist, said Mr Jenricks resignation may be the death knell for Sunaks leadership.

Dozens of hardliners  including members of the 35-strong New Conservatives, the Common Sense Group and the European Research Group  met again on Wednesday evening to decide if they could vote for the new bill.

The Independent understands many of them are unhappy with the middle way option to disapply the Human Rights Act. One senior MP said there would be no purpose to the bill if it fails to thwart ECHR challenges.

The PM had been warned that he faced an even more damaging rebellion  with the possible resignation of up to 10 moderate ministers  if he used the emergency legislation to bypass the ECHR.

Senior Tory moderate Damian Green, chair of the One Nation group  which boasts support from around 100 MPs  has warned Mr Sunak that he should think twice before overriding both the ECHR and HRA.

Former home secretary Suella Braverman told Mr Sunak to bypass ECHR or face oblivion (PA)

A spokesman for One Nation said it welcomed the governments decision to stick with international commitments  but is now taking legal advice on whether it can now support the bill.

The front page of the legislation concedes that the government is unable to say whether the bill is compatible with the ECHR, an admission that may make moderates uneasy about voting for it in parliament in the crucial days ahead.

New foreign secretary David Cameron said he was sorry that Mr Jenrick had resigned. But he defended the comprehensive Rwanda bill  claiming it would put this policy beyond doubt and get flights started.

In his exit letter, Mr Jenrick told the Tory leader he refused to be yet another politician who makes promises on immigration to the British public but does not keep them.

Mr Sunak wrote back: Your resignation is disappointing given we both agree on the ends, getting flights off to Rwanda so that we can stop the boats. I fear that your departure is based on a fundamental misunderstanding of the situation. It is our experience that gives us confidence that this will work.

In another surprise, Ms Braverman made a formal resignation speech in the Commons. She suggested her own previous stop the boats legislation should have been scrapped in favour of a more robust alternative that excluded international and human rights laws.

The Tory hardliner attacked expansive human rights laws flowing from the ECHR that were stopping the Rwanda flights. Ms Braverman also said it was no secret that she supports quitting the ECHR altogether.

Her unusual personal statement to the Commons followed her bitter exit last month. A similar speech by Geoffrey Howe following his resignation in the Commons in 1990 is often credited with ending Margaret Thatchers political career.

It came despite the government claiming that the new bill would unambiguously exclude the courts from challenging the fact that Rwanda is safe. Mr Sunak insisted that his new legislation would make sure his Rwanda plan cannot be stopped.

Speaking in the Commons, Mr Cleverly said the bill was lawful, fair and necessary. The home secretary told MPs that the government was determined to pass its emergency legislation through parliament quickly. He also denied Labour claims that Rwanda was getting cold feet due to the toxic deal.

The UKs top court last month blocked the Rwanda policy over concerns that genuine refugees could be wrongly sent back to their countries of origin where they would face persecution.

Nick Vineall KC, chair of the Bar Council, said the new bill was still likely to give rise to legal challenges over planned deportations  pointing out that it retains the right of the courts to consider whether Rwanda is a safe country for any particular individual.
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Robert Jenricks shock resignation has plunged Rishi Sunaks leadership into further chaos after the prime minister failed to appease Tory right-wingers with his emergency Rwanda legislation.

Home Secretary James Cleverly unveiled a bill in the Commons to disapply the UK Human Rights Act in a bid to stop British judges blocking the deportation of asylum seekers.

But the Sunak government could not head off a major revolt by the right of the party after choosing not to opt out of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

Jenrick said the small boats crisis was doing untold damage to the country and the Government needed to place national interests highly contested interpretations of international law.

Below is his resignation letter in full:

Robert Jenrick says he has strong disagreements with the governments policy (AFP via Getty Images)

It is with great sadness that I have written to the Prime Minister to tender my resignation as Minister for Immigration. I cannot continue in my position when I have such strong disagreements with the direction of the Governments policy on immigration.

As you know, I have been pushing for the strongest possible piece of emergency legislation to ensure that under the Rwanda policy we remove as many small boat arrivals, as swiftly as possible to generate the greatest deterrent effect.

This stems from my firmly held position that the small boats crisis is a national emergency that is doing untold damage to our country, and the only way we will be able to stop the boats completely is by urgently introducing a major new deterrent.

I have therefore consistently advocated for a clear piece of legislation that severely limits the opportunities for domestic and foreign courts to block or undermine the effectiveness of the policy.

One of the great advantages of our unwritten constitution is the unfettered power of our sovereign parliament to create law. and that is a power we must take full advantage of.

The Government has a responsibility to place our vital national interests above highly contested interpretations of international law.

In our discussions on the proposed emergency legislation you have moved towards my position, for which I am grateful.

Nevertheless. I am unable to take the currently proposed legislation through the Commons as I do not believe it provides us with the best possible chance of success.

A Bill of the kind you are proposing is a triumph of hope over experience. The stakes for the country are too high for us not to pursue the stronger protections required to end the merry-go-round of legal challenges which risk paralysing the scheme and negating its intended deterrent.

Reflecting on my time in the Home Office, I am proud of the improvements we have delivered together working alongside dedicated and capable civil servants. I am grateful to you for agreeing to much of my five-point plan to reduce net migration which, once implemented, will deliver the single largest reduction in legal migration ever.

However, I refuse to be yet another politician who makes promises on immigration to the British public but does not keep them.

This package must be implemented immediately via an emergency rules change and accompanied by significant additional reforms at the start of next year to ensure we meet the 2019 manifesto commitment that every single Conservative MP was elected upon. The consequences for housing, public services, economic productivity, welfare reform, community cohesion and, more fundamentally, for trust in democratic politics are all too serious for this totemic issue to be anything other than a primary focus for the Government.

Together we have also made progress tackling illegal migration. Small boats arrivals are down by more than a third compared to last year, against a forecast of a forty per cent increase and an almost one hundred per cent rise in Italy in the same period.

The deal we negotiated with Albania has led to a more than ninety per cent reduction in Albanians arriving illegally on small boats and has demonstrated that a fully functioning scheme with Rwanda will act as a powerful deterrent. For the first time we have developed a comprehensive upstream strategy to disrupt the organised immigration crime gangs in important countries including Italy, Belgium, Bulgaria and Turkey.

This has made the United Kingdom a partner of choice to those who share a determination to tackle illegal migration and has led to record numbers of small boat equipment seizures, preventing thousands more people making the illegal, unnecessary and dangerous crossing. At home we have relentlessly focussed on removing the pull factors the United Kingdom.

We have increased raids on illegal working by seventy per cent and returns of immigration offenders by over fifty per cent, transformed the asylum case-working system with a ten-fold increase in weekly decisions to eliminate the legacy backlog, and began closing hundreds of the farcical asylum hotels. Behind the scenes we have also instilled greater rigour in scrutinising visa applications which will tackle the equally concerning rise in non-small boat asylum claims.

However, we said that we would stop the boats altogether. That is what the public rightly demands and expects of us. We must truly mean that we will do whatever it takes to deliver this commitment when we say so. This emergency legislation is the last opportunity to prove this, but in its current drafting it does not go far enough.

You and I have been friends for a long time. In cabinet I have seen up close your hard work, dedication and the deep sense of public service that drives you every day. Against strong headwinds you have stabilised the country, showed leadership on the world stage and done much to improve the lives of millions of citizens across the United Kingdom, for which you deserve much greater recognition.

This is not a decision I have arrived at lightly, but one born of principle and reached after careful consideration and many months of trying to convince you of the merits of my position.

You will retain my full support on the backbenches even as I campaign on illegal and legal migration policy and the intersecting challenges of generating meaningful economic growth, solving the housing crisis and improving integration. The fortunes of the Conservative Party at the next general election are at stake.

It has been an honour to serve in government for five Conservative Prime Ministers. I will continue to represent the interests of my constituents in Newark to whom I owe so much.

Yours ever,

Robert
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Rishi Sunak made a desperate bid to head off a growing revolt among right-wing Conservatives over his failed Rwanda flights plan with new emergency legislation that defies human rights law.

Home secretary James Cleverly unveiled a bill in the Commons to disapply the UK Human Rights Act in a bid to stop British judges blocking the deportation of asylum seekers.

In fresh turmoil, the Rwandan government immediately responded to the move by warning that it could pull out of the deal if the UK fails to comply with international law.

Mr Sunak failed to head off a major rebellion by the right of the party after choosing not to opt out of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

Sacked home secretary Suella Braverman issued a stinging attack on Mr Sunak  warning that he faces electoral oblivion if he fails to get Rwanda flights off the ground before the next election.

Ms Bravermans cabinet ally Robert Jenrick, the hardline immigration minister, was said to be on resignation watch over Mr Sunaks choice not to bypass the ECHR.

In a fiery Commons speech, Ms Braverman said: The Conservative party faces electoral oblivion in a matter of months if we introduce yet another bill that is destined to fail Do we fight for sovereignty or do we let our party die?

Mr Sunak now faces the near-impossible task of winning support from Tory right-wingers who wanted a full fat move on the ECHR, and centrists in the One Nation group warning they cannot back legislation that flouts human rights law.

The bill includes explicit provisions to disapply relevant parts of the Human Rights Act so they cannot be factored into court decisions on deportation cases  but does not try to disapply the ECHR.

However, the legislation will ensure UK ministers retain the decision on whether or not to comply with interim orders from the European Court of Human Rights  the Strasbourg body that oversees the ECHR.

Ex-home secretary Suella Braverman has added to pressure on Rishi Sunak (PA Wire)

Mr Sunak defended his plans at a showdown meeting of the 1922 Committee of Tory backbenchers on Wednesday. A source close to Ms Braverman made clear that the bill doesnt come close to meeting her tests. It is fatally flawed, the ally said. It is a further betrayal of Tory voters.

Angry at his failure to act on the ECHR, some Tory right-wingers submitted letters of no confidence in Mr Sunak on Wednesday, according to ITV presenter Robert Peston.

Hardliners on the right  including members of the New Conservatives, Commons Sense Group and European Research Group  met again on Wednesday evening. The rebels are convening a star chamber of legal experts to decide if the new bill is tough enough to support.

The Independent understands many are unhappy with the middle way option to disapply the Human Rights Act. One senior MP said there would be no purpose to the bill if it fails to get around all human rights legal challenges.

Senior Tory moderate Damian Green, chair of the One Nation group  which boasts support from around 100 MPs  has warned Mr Sunak that he should think twice before overriding both the ECHR and HRA.

Rishi Sunak is under huge pressure from different wings of the party (PA Wire)

As spokesman for the One Nation said it welcome the governments decision to stick with international commitments  but is taking legal advice on whether it can now support the bill.

The front page of the legislation concedes that the government is unable to say whether the bill is compatible with the ECHR  an admission that may make moderates uneasy about voting for it in parliament in the days ahead.

Responding to the bill, Rwandas foreign affairs minister Vincent Biruta warned the Sunak government of the need for the legislation to comply with the highest standards of international law.

He warned: Without lawful behaviour by the UK, Rwanda would not be able to continue with the Migration and Economic Development Partnership.

Nick Vineall KC, chair of the Bar Council, said the bill was still likely to give rise to legal challenges over planned deportations  pointing out that it retains the right of the courts to consider whether Rwanda is a safe country for any particular individual.

Robert Jenrick was on resignation watch on Wednesday evening (Getty Images)

In a surprise resignation speech in the Commons on Wednesday, Ms Braverman suggested her own previous stop the boats legislation should have been scrapped in favour of a more robust alternative that excluded international and human rights laws.

The Tory hardliner also attacked expansive human rights laws flowing from the European Convention on Human Rights that were stopping the Rwanda flights.

Ms Braverman also said it was no secret that she supports quitting the ECHR altogether  arguing that a new British human rights law would finish the job of Brexit by extricating us from a foreign court.

Ms Bravermans unusual personal statement to the Commons followed her bitter exit last month. A similar speech by Geoffrey Howe followed his resignation in Commons in 1990, often credited with ending Margaret Thatchers political career.

The government claimed the new bill would be the toughest immigration legislation ever introduced to parliament, and will unambiguously exclude the courts from challenging the fact that Rwanda is safe.

The beleaguered PM insisted that his new legislation would make sure his flagship asylum scheme cannot be stopped, as he battles the issue of small boat crossings of the Channel.

Mr Sunak said: We are taking action to put a stop to it and make clear once and for all that it is parliament that should decide who comes to this country, not criminal gangs.

The UKs top court last month blocked the Rwanda policy over concerns that genuine refugees could be wrongly sent back to their countries of origin where they would face persecution.

In an attempt to rectify this, Mr Cleverly signed a new treaty this week which means British judges will preside over a newly established appeals process within Rwandas high court for exceptional cases.

Nick Emmerson, president of the Law Society, said the government was seeking to overturn an evidence-based finding of fact by the Supreme Court and shield itself from accountability under both domestic and international law.

Former Labour home secretary David Blunkett said the governments Rwanda deal was stupid and impractical. He told The House magazine that Labour should not engage in a bidding war with the Tories with undeliverable deportation promises.
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A six-year-old boy was mauled to death by two dogs who attacked him at a family friends house in Oregon.

The boy was preparing to head off to school from the house in Portland, which belonged to a friend of the victims grandmother, when two large Great Dane-Mastiff mixes launched themselves onto the child, the Portland Police Bureau said.

When police arrived at the scene around 7.40am, the door was answered by a woman covered in blood. She had tried to intervene and pull the dogs off of the boy but was unable to save him.

We understand that the homeowner/dog owner did everything in her power to stop this attack, at some point even grabbing a gun  it never got that far, PPB Public Information Officer Mike Benner told Fox 12.

She did everything she could to save this boys life.

The boy was pronounced dead at the scene, and the dog owner was taken to a local hospital for treatment as she sustained minor injuries on her hand.

The attack came as a shock to neighbours such as Sergey Denub, who told the outlet that he has interacted with the two large dogs before and they seemed friendly.

Theyre great, theyre so friendly, theyre jumping at me; they are big dogs, but theyre really friendly dogs, Mr Denub said.

The dogs had never previously been reported as problematic, according to Multnomah County Animal Services.

The two large dogs were taken away by animal services (Fox 12)

The woman was a friend of the boys grandmother and took him to school every day, according to reports.

The attack allegedly happened when the boy followed the woman into the garage, where she had locked the dogs for his safety.

One dog in particular was labelled the primary aggressor.

The two Great Dane Mastiff mixes have been taken into the custody of animal services.

I speak for everyone at the bureau when I say that our hearts break for this little boy, for his family, for his friends, Mr Benner told Fox 12.

I mean, anytime something like this happens, its a shock to the conscience, but to have this happen just weeks before Christmas is unimaginable.

It is unclear if the woman will face any charges in connection to this incident.

The Portland Police Bureau Child Abuse Team is leading an investigation into the attack with the help of the Homicide Division.
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A renowned Canadian film industry entrepreneur and his partner have been found dead in the Caribbean island nation of Dominica, where the couple owned a luxury resort.

The bodies of 3D animation innovator Daniel Langlois and his partner Dominique Marchand were found inside a burnt-out vehicle on Friday after they were reported missing for several days.

On Monday, the Daniel Langlois Foundation said on its website that the founder of film software company Softimage and his partner died in tragic circumstances near the resort they owned.

A spokesperson for Canadas consular services agency, Global Affairs Canada (GAC), confirmed it was aware of the deaths and said: Our hearts are with the families and loved ones of the Canadian citizens involved.

GAC media relations officer Marilyne Guevremont said in a statement to Canadas CBC News that Canadian authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and are working with local counterparts in Dominica.

Canadian entrepreneur Daniel Langlois and his partner, Dominique Marchand, were found dead in a burnt-out vehicle on Friday, 1 December 2023 in the Caribbean island nation of Dominica (Daniel Langlois Foundation)

Langlois, 66, founded Softimage in 1986 and served as its president and chief technology officer from its inception until July 1998. The company gained global recognition in the fields of film and media production due to its cutting-edge digital technologies, with a particular emphasis on innovative 3D computer animation techniques.

Dominicas national security minister, Rayburn Blackmoore, said that the deaths were a potential homicide arson. According to the Dominica Broadcasting Corporation, Mr Blackmoore said: This type of terrible crime and the brutality in this crime is something we cannot ignore and we cannot allow those responsible to go unpunished.

He said the police received a call about the incident on Friday last week at about 7am. He said he assured his Canadian counterparts of Dominicas dedication to solving this crime.

Four people of interest have, so far, been taken into custody. This includes one Dominican national and three foreigners, one of whom was reported to be an American national. The US State Department told BBC Newsthat we are aware of reports of the arrest of a US citizen in Dominica. Due to privacy considerations, we have no further comment at this time.

The Daniel Langlois Foundation said in a statement: In the coming weeks and months, details of the exact circumstances of their passing will be revealed as the Dominican police authorities and justice system proceed to the investigation.

Langlois reportedly generated more than $200m in 1994 from the sale of his 3D animation software company. The software was used in blockbuster films such as Jurassic Park, Star Wars, Titanic, Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, and Pirates of the Caribbean. Although acquired by Microsoft, the company retained its base in Montreal.

In 1999, he established the art-house cinema Cinema Excentris, co-founded the Festival du Nouveau Cinema, and instituted a foundation in his name to champion technology-related initiatives in the realms of arts and sciences.

He also founded a hurricane aid organisation in the Caribbean to help rebuild island communities after Hurricane Maria in 2017 and purchased the summit of Mount Pinnacle in Coaticook, Quebec in the Eastern Townships near the US border to protect the summits flora and fauna.

Ms Marchand worked with an animal charity, the Humane Society of Dominica.

Langlois and Marchand opened their luxury resort, named Coulibri Ridge Eco-resort, just a year ago. The entire community on the island is in mourning following a devastating incident on Thursday, 30 November, a spokesperson for the resort said in a statement to Radio-Canada.

His legacy reflects his innovative spirit, Canadas federal minister of Canadian heritage, Pascale St-Onge, wrote in a statement.
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A Black teenager who was suspended from a Texas high school for his loc hairstyle in September has been given another in-school suspension.

Darryl George, 18, was first suspended from Barbers Hill High School in Mont Belvieu, Texas, in August after school officials said his braided locs fell below his eyebrows and ear lobes and violated the districts dress code. He was suspended again in September.

He was suspended for a third time on Tuesday  his first day back at the school after spending a month at an off-site disciplinary programme  for 13 days.

School officials said Mr George was sent to the disciplinary program for violating the dress code and the tardy policy, disrupting the in-school suspension classroom and not complying with school directives.

A disciplinary notice issued by the school said Mr George was suspended on Tuesday because his hair was out of compliance when let down.

A Black teenager who was suspended from a Texas high school for his loc hairstyle in September has been given another in-school suspension (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

A district spokesperson said the teenager had been told he would go back to in-person suspension after returning from the disciplinary programme unless he trimmed his hair.

The school districts dress and grooming code states that male students hair should not extend below their eyebrows, ear lobes or the top of their t-shirt collar.

Mr George has repeatedly refused to cut his hair, leading to several reprimands.

But the 18-year-olds family has argued that the punishment violates the CROWN Act, which became law in Texas in September, and bans race-based hair discrimination in workplaces and schools.

However, the school district spokesperson has previously insisted that the dress and grooming code is not in conflict with the CROWN Act because the legislation does not address hair length.

Mr Goerges family has filed a formal complaint with the Texas Education Agency and a federal civil rights lawsuit against the states governor and attorney general along with the school district, alleging they failed to enforce the new law outlawing discrimination based on hairstyles.

Meanwhile, the school district has filed a lawsuit in state district court asking a judge to clarify whether its dress code restrictions limiting student hair length for boys violate the CROWN Act.

Darryl George and his mother Darresha George (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

In 2020, Barbers Hill student DeAndre Arnold sued the district after he was ordered to cut his locs in order to be able to finish his education and attend graduation.

The lawsuit led to legislation being passed in Texas enshrining the rights of students to wear their hair without discrimination.

Democratic state Rep Ron Reynolds, who is also chair of the Texas Legislative Black Caucus, told the Associated Press the school is acting in bad faith to continue discriminating against African American students. He added that he plans to file an amendment to the law during the next session that specifically addresses length to stop their pretextual argument to not comply with the Crown Act.

Locs, sometimes referred to as dreadlocks, can be worn in braided, coiled, twisted or palm-rolled styles.

The Independent has contacted Barbers Hill school district for comment.
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A group of 12 survivors of police abuse or discrimination began receiving $1,000 payments this week as part of a first-in-the-nation programme providing a guaranteed income to victims of law enforcement racism.

The programme, which provides the group $1,000-a-month payments for a year, was founded via a $1m donation from Leroy and Gracie Close of South Carolina, who descend from a prominent member of the slave trade, whose family then established a large textile fortune.

For 30 years, our great, great, great grandfather John Springs III would travel annually to Maryland or Virginia to purchase 40 human beings at a time, separating them from their families, and marching them South in chains and ropes, the Closes wrote in a recent Newsweek op-ed about the project.

For us, the benefits of slavery have not ended. They are a very real part of our day-to-day lives. The institution of slavery allows us to have high incomes without having to work. It allows us the luxury of feeling secure in our lives, they added.

In contrast, the descendants of the people owned by our ancestors have had the opposite experience. Many experience poverty, and all experience structural racism, especially those in the South.

The initiative targets individuals who have personally experienced racist policing that descends from the deeper history of slavery in America, according to the American Civil Liberties Union of Louisiana, a partner in the project.

Grantees include multiple Louisiana women who received excessive treatment from the police.

One was improperly arrested in 2020 in Gretna, Lousiana, after complaining that attendees at a courthouse werent observing Covid guidelines.

Another woman in Jefferson Parish was searched and intimidated by police that same year by officers who did not have a warrant.

The guaranteed income project, which also comes with optional counselling, career support, and financial literacy courses, is a part of the Louisiana ACLUs Truth and Reconciliation Project, a project studying ways to transfer wealth from descendants of enslavers to those oppressed by vestiges of slavery.

The excitement around the programs launch is truly infectious, Melody Parker, Truth and Reconciliation project manager, said in a statement. Witnessing the transformative power it holds and the resilience it ignites within participants to continue dreaming is not just inspiring, but a testament to the importance of initiatives like this one that address historical harm through the radical redistribution of resources.
 Close Texas shooting spree: 6 dead, 2 officers hurt

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A complex investigation has been launched after six people were found dead across two major cities in Texas.

Suspect Shane James, 34, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with capital murder charges in connection with the deaths of four people in Austin. James is also accused of killing his parents Phyllis James, 55, and Shane Matthew James Sr, 56 at their home in San Antonio.

Police identified two of the victims killed in Austin as 24-year-old Sabrina Rahman and Emmanuel Pop Ba, 32.

A friend of Pop Ba told The Austin-American Stateman that he was sitting inside a car when the gunman opened fire on him. Pop Ba was helping that friend move to their new home.

Rahmans uncle Marshall Hussain also told the outlet that his niece was struck by gunfire as she was walking her baby in a stroller.

She did her last act to push the child away, Mr Hussain said.

James, who has a history of mental health issues and was discharged from the Army due to a domestic violence incident, was taken into custody after crashing his car while fleeing police following a shootout with an officer who suffered multiple gunshot wounds.
 Close Las Vegas campus shooter sent white powder letters to 22 universities, police say

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The third victim who was killed in Wednesdays shooting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas has been named as Dr Naoko Takemaru.

Dr Takemaru was named after her next of kin were informed by the coroners office, UNLV president Keith Whitfield said in a statement.

With sadness, I write to you to mourn the tragic passing of Dr Naoko Takemaru, who this morning was confirmed to be among the three UNLV faculty members who lost their lives during Wednesdays shooting, Mr Whitfield said.

The first two victims of the shooting were identified as professor Cha Jan Chang, 64, known as Jerry, and assistant professor Patricia Navarro Velez, 39, of Las Vegas, on Thursday.

It comes after Las Vegas police released new video purportedly showing suspect Anthony Polito moments after his shooting rampage at the University of Nevadas Las Vegas campus.

The footage emerged after investigators revealed that 67-year-old Polito had a target list - but none of his alleged victims were on it.

Police previously confirmed that Polito was a career college professor who had applied for  but failed to be accepted for  a job at UNLV.

Polito previously worked as a professor at colleges in Georgia and North Carolina, and kept a personal website where he proudly documented his academic achievements  and claimed to have solved the Zodiac Killer case.

According to police, he had a previous criminal history of computer trespass out of Virginia in 1992.

On the day of the shooting Polito was armed with a Taurus nine-millimeter handgun, which had been purchased legally in 2022. He had brought 11 magazines to the scene with him. Nine loaded magazines were found on his person.
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A huge fire ripped through a popular Christmas market in Berlin as tourists fled the area and two people were rushed to hospital.

Dramatic photos show huge plumes of smoke rising above the market in front of the Rotes Rathaus (the red town hall) in the German capital on Tuesday evening.

Two people were rushed to hospital with injuries following the blaze, which has now been extinguished, emergency services said.

The fire consumed two stalls which had been selling festive-themed goods. German outlet Bild claimed that as fire crews battled the fire, two small gas cartridges exploded.

It comes just a week after two people were arrested in North Rhine-Westphalia and Brandenburg after they allegedly plotted attacks on Christmas markets.

Simon Calder, travel correspondent of The Independent, said: Across Continental Europe, Christmas markets have high-security protection because of fears of a terrorist attack  as we saw in Berlin in 2016, when 12 people died in a truck attack.

This incident in the German capital will not boost confidence  but all the signs are that British travellers have committed in higher numbers than ever to visit European Christmas markets, and cancellations are very unlikely.

A Berlin fire department spokesperson said: At the Christmas market at the Red Town Hall, two stalls caught fire. The fire is extinguished. The site is under control.

This is a breaking news story. More to follow.
 Close Iceland volcano erupts after weeks of earthquakes

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Stunning footage has shown 100m high lava waves lap up out of an Icelandic ridge following the eruption of a volcano on the island.

The dramatic scene can be seen up to 20km away after the skies over the eruption turned orange. You can watch a live stream of the ongoing eruption here.

It comes as a hiker was rescued by a helicopter after sending a SOS signal when he got lost near the raging lava and toxic fumes overnight.

Meanwhile, Icelands foreign minister said scientists had warned that the volcanic eruption in Iceland could go on for months.

Bjarni Benediktsson added that the eruption on Monday was much larger than those seen in recent years, which he described as nice touristic eruptions.

More vents are expected to open as the volcanic eruption in southwest Iceland continues, the Icelandic Met Office has warned.

Three out of five vents are still active after the volcano on the Reykjanes peninsula began to erupt on Monday night, spewing lava and smoke over 100m into the air.
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Volodymyr Zelensky unexpectedly cancelled his address to the US Senate where he would have appealed for fresh aid for the war in Ukraine, majority leader Chuck Schumer said on Tuesday.

Kyivs calls for multi-billion dollar military funding have been rejected by the Congress, leaving Ukraine out in the cold.

The war-time president has been pleading with his allies in the West for financial and military help against Russian forces as Moscows invasion clocked 650 days. The US is now showing signs of fatigue and disapproval for funding the war.

The calls for aid for Ukraine clashed with the Republicans demand for additional border funding, halting any further inflow of money into the war.

Mr Schumer said the Ukrainian leader cancelled his virtual appearance at the Senates closed-door briefing after something came up at the last minute. Earlier in the day, the US House majority leader said Mr Zelensky was scheduled to give a classified briefing and address the senators by video.

President Joe Bidens administration had invited Mr Zelensky to address the senators so they could hear directly from him precisely what is at stake.

Ukraine could soon find itself without US help as the clock is ticking on the $106bn funding request from the White House for the wars in Ukraine, Israel, and other security needs without support from Republicans.

The US has already run out of money that it has used to prop up Ukraines economy, and if Ukraines economy collapses, they will not be able to keep fighting, full stop, said Shalanda Young, Office of Management and Budget director, in a letter to House and Senate leaders.

She warned that the US will run out of funding to send weapons and assistance to Ukraine by the end of the year, saying that would "kneecap" Ukraine on the battlefield.

"We are out of money  and nearly out of time," she wrote in the letter.

The Biden administration sent an urgent warning on Monday about the need to approve the military and economic assistance to Ukraine, saying Kyivs war effort to defend itself from Russias invasion may grind to a halt without it.

The blockade from the US  Kyivs primary ally against Russian invasion for 22 months  spells dangers of Russias advance on the battlefield as Moscows troops pick up pace after getting military help from North Korea and Iran in recent shipments.

Any postponement of aid from the US would create the big risk that Ukraine will lose the nearly two years of Russias war on its territory, Mr Zelenskys chief of staff said.

If the aid is postponed, "it gives the big risk that we can be in the same position to which were located now," Andriy Yermak said. "And of course, it makes this very high possibility impossible to continually liberate and give the big risk to lose this war."

If Ukraine loses, the US would be responsible for the defeat, US treasury secretary Janet Yellen said.

"Ive talked to members of Congress, my colleagues have. I think they understand that this is a dire situation and we can hold ourselves responsible for Ukraines defeat if we dont manage to get this funding to Ukraine thats needed, and Im including direct budget support here because thats utterly essential," Ms Yellen said.

The funding, especially for Ukraines general government budget support, was utterly essential and a pre-condition to keep the International Monetary Fund support flowing to Ukraine.

Ukraine is just running out of money, she said, adding that the war-hit nation would cease to have any schools or hospitals if the US doesnt financially back them as they are spending more than every penny theyre taking in, in tax revenue, on military salaries and defence.

Congress already has allocated $111bn (88bn) to assist Ukraine, including $67bn (53bn) in military procurement funding, $27bn (21bn) for economic and civil assistance and $10bn (7.9bn) for humanitarian aid. Ms Young wrote that all of it, other than about 3 per cent of the military funding, had been depleted by mid-November.

The war in Ukraine has entered its second winter where military experts and officials monitoring the war are anticipating a fresh round of heavy Russian missile attacks on Kyivs civilian and energy infrastructure to shadow the war-hit nation in dark and sub-zero temperatures.

The military aid, financial help, training of troops and ammunition tranches from the US and other western allies has kept Ukraine afloat so far but the battlefield has not shifted this year despite heavy fighting.
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Warning: this article contains distressing detail about people's injuries

A badly burned toddler screaming for the mother he doesnt know is dead  and screaming because doctors do not have enough painkillers to relieve his suffering. An eight-year-old boy whose brain is exposed as bombing damaged parts of his skull. A teenage girl, her eye surgically removed, because every bone in her face is smashed. A three-year-old double amputee, whose severed limbs are laid out in a pink box beside him.

And in the background is the stench of rotting flesh as maggots creep out of untreated wounds.

This is the daily reality at the European Hospital inside the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis, as described by veteran British war surgeon Tom Potokar, who works for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

While the United Nations warns that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is apocalyptic, the Israeli military has expanded a ferocious ground campaign from the north of the besieged territory into the south, where an estimated 1.9 million Palestinians have been displaced.

The Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has vowed to continue the war until the army destroys Hamas, which runs the Strip and launched a deadly attack on southern Israel on 7 October in which 1,200 people were killed and another 240 were taken hostage.

Israel launched its heaviest-ever aerial bombardment of Gaza in the wake of the Hamas attack. And in recent days, Israeli forces have started to storm Khan Younis, the largest city in southern Gaza, launching what is believed to be the biggest ground assault since a fragile seven-day truce collapsed last week.

Inside the European Hospital, one of the main medical centres servicing the city and surrounding areas, medics struggle to treat the relentless stream of wounded, Dr Potokar says.

Nearly half of them are children.

Evidence of some of the damage from airstrikes in Khan Younis (Reuters)

Ive lost count of the number of children we have treated who have horrific injuries, burns, amputations, who've lost their whole family, Dr Potokar tells The Independent from inside the hospital compound which, like other medics, he has not left for five weeks.

Palestinian and international medics are sleeping on the floor of the nursing quarters, living off packets of noodles and working 14-hour shifts, he explains. One night Dr Potokar says he was nearly killed by shrapnel which came through a window.

Some medics, including nursing staff and surgeons Dr Potokar worked with, have been killed alongside dozens of members of their family. At least one of the 100 ICRC staffers working in Gaza has also been killed.

This is Dr Potokars 14th time working as a medic in Gaza. He has worked in the field as a surgeon in Somalia, Syria, Afghanistan, and Yemen, but this conflict is without doubt the worst.

I have seen far too many children whose lives have been destroyed, he says. Ive treated a four-month-old with significant burn injuries. I treated an eight-year-old that had an open fracture of his skull with an exposed brain. It is just awful to see and its so relentless. It's just not stopping, they keep coming in every day.

Recently Dr Potokar was treating a burns patient in the intensive care unit who had fled the north of the country and whose wounds were septic as the dressing had not been changed for days. On the bed next to the burns patient was a three-year-old boy.

He had [two] above-knee amputations done the night before from an airstrike. I found out afterwards that his father had also had an amputation and the rest of his family didn't make it, Dr Potokar says. "This is not a one-off event.

British war surgeon Tom Potokar (ICRC)

The pause in the fighting during the week-long ceasefire brokered by Qatar had provided some respite to millions of Palestinians who live in the 42km-long enclave. Dozens of hostages, including elderly women and children aged just four years old, were released. The ICRC facilitated the transfer of 104 hostages and 154 Palestinian detainees involved in the exchange.

But since the truce expired on 1 December, Israel has pushed into southern Gaza, as well as continuing operations in the north. Nearly 2 million Palestinians  ordered by Israel to take shelter in the south  are now crammed into ever-diminishing and extremely overcrowded places in unsanitary and unhealthy conditions, the UNs rights chief Volker Turk warned on Wednesday.

"Humanitarian aid is again virtually cut off as fears of widespread disease and hunger spread, he added.

Israeli military spokesperson Jonathan Conricus told CNN that Israeli forces were targeting Hamas command and control centres, weapons storage and logistics facilities and that they had asked Palestinians to evacuate to a special humanitarian zone in southern Gaza near Khan Younis. He admitted this isn't perfect but it is the best, currently available solution that we have.

The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said the death toll had soared since the resumption of hostilities, with more than 1,200 killed in the last week alone. In total, health officials say Israels offensive has killed more than 16,000 Palestinians, 70 per cent of them women and children.

Aid group Save the Children says that the child death toll in Gaza is so high it surpasses the annual number of children killed across the world's conflict zones since 2019.

Jan Egeland, secretary general of the Norwegian Refugee Council said on Tuesday that the pulverising of Gaza now ranks amongst the worst assaults on any civilian population in our time and age.

The United Nations children's agency said this week Gaza is the most dangerous place in the world to be a child. And it will only get worse.

A child is taken into hospital in Khan Younis (Reuters)

At the European Hospital, at least 360 people are on the waiting list for an operation now, an impossible number to deal with, says Dr Pokotar.

Its almost like a perfect storm of neglected wounds and then the patients getting malnourished as well which means they won't heal. They've had different procedures at different places and been transferred from one place to another, he adds.

This is compounded by staff shortages as medics are killed at home, or prevented from getting to the hospital because of bombing and destroyed roads.

The nurse who had helped him with the three-year-old double amputee was killed three nights ago along with 12 members of his family, Dr Pokotar says. A senior plastic surgeon, who was also a colleague, was killed with 30 members of his family in an airstrike four weeks back. Every day, nursing staff and surgeons are treating family and friends that are brought into the hospital  many do not make it.

It's difficult to find somebody who hasn't lost somebody close, he adds.

There are just too many patients and not enough staff, not enough theatre time to treat all of them. So you have to prioritise.

Infections are now running rife through hospitals as wounds are not being tended to in time; there is an overwhelming number of patients with complex injuries that have been neglected.

Dr Pokotar says anyone who would doubt the devastating impact on civilians would change their mind if they spent a day in his wards.

If you could bring any person here who was not sure, and you place them here, and you got them to smell the stench of rotting flesh, to see the sight of maggots creeping from wounds of a person who has necrotic flesh and to hear the screams of kids because there's not enough analgesia [painkiller], and they want their mum, who's not going to appear because she's dead  I think people might feel a bit different about this.
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A US warship and three commercial vessels have been attacked by rockets launched by Yemens Houthi rebels into the Red Sea.

The USS Carney shot down a Houthi drone in self-defence on Sunday and destroyed three more targeted at commercial ships linked to 14 nations including the UK.

Now, Saudi Arabia has urged the US to show restraint in its response to the Iran-backed rebel groups attack amid fears of a wider regional conflict.

The US has suggested the attacks on their vessels may not have been intentional. The Carney took action as a drone was headed in its direction, Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh said. We cant assess that the Carney at this time was the intended target,

But regardless of their intentions, who are Yemens Houthi rebels? How are they linked to the conflict between Israel and Palestine, and why are they attacking Western ships now?

Its clearly linked to a broader strategy of Iran, which is the main backer of the Houthis, militant jihadist expert Dr Elisabeth Kendall told The Independent.

The guided-missile destroyer USS Carney intervened to protect commercial ships under attack by Houthi drones (AP)

It is designed to ramp up pressure on Israel, America and other allies to stop the war in Gaza. The Houthis are armed, sponsored and trained by Iran as part of the so-called axis of resistance, Dr Kendall said.

The Houthis, formed in the late 1990s, developed as political-religious Shiite movement and launched a series of guerrilla wars against Yemens national army.

The group seized the countrys capital of Sanaa when the Yemen civil war started in 2014, which caused neighbouring Sunni Islam Saudi Arabia to intervene at the head of a Western-backed coalition over fears of growing Shiite influence on its border.

Since then, the group has developed an arsenal including ballistic missiles and armed drones capable of hitting Israel more than 1,000 miles from Sanaa.

The Houthis fired these missiles at Saudi Arabia dozens of times during the Yemen war. In September, the Houthis displayed anti-aircraft Barq-2 missiles, naval missiles, a Mig-29 fighter jet and helicopters for the first time.

Houthi supporters rally to show support for Palestine in Sanaa, Yemen, on 7 October (REUTERS)

Saudi Arabia and the US have accused Iran of fully enabling the rebel group to attack Israel and Western ships in the Red Sea. Iran denies the allegations, and says the Houthis are autonomous.

But experts say the Houthis, a long with Gazas Hamas and Lebanons Hezbollah, form part of Irans axis of resistance -a military alliance built over four decades to oppose Israeli and American power in the Middle East.

The alliance comprises a group of violent proxies across Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Lebanon and Palestine, coordinated by Israels Quds Force, which is aimed at exporting Irans 1979 Islamic revolution abroad.

Lebanons Hezbollah, the most powerful group in the axis, boasts 100,000 fighters, has exchanged fire with Israeli forces since Hamas went to war with Israel and more than 70 of its fighters have been killed.

The US also says its troops in Syria and Iraq have been attacked at least 55 times by Iran-backed proxies since Hamass assault on Israel on 7 October.
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Governments have been accused of using Apple and Google push notifications to spy on users.

In a letter to the Department of Justice, senator Ron Wyden warned unidentified governments are surveilling smartphone users via their apps push notifications.

Smartphone users across the world receive push notifications every day which alert them to incoming messages, breaking news and other updates.

All such notifications travel over Google and Apples servers, meaning the two companies get a unique insight into the traffic flowing from those apps to their users.

Senator Wyden said this puts Apple and Google in a unique position to facilitate government surveillance of how users are using particular apps.

He added that foreign officials are demanding such data from the two tech companies, citing a tip as the source of the information.

While the senator did not elaborate on the tip, a source familiar with the matter confirmed to Reuters that both US government agencies and foreign governments allied to the US had asked Apple and Google for metadata related to push notifications.

The Reuters source added that the government agencies had asked for such data to tie anonymous users of messaging apps to specific Apple or Google accounts.

In his letter, Mr Wyden asked the Department of Justice to repeal or modify any policies that hindered public discussions of push notification spying.

A Google spokesperson told The Independent the company share(s) the Senators commitment to keeping users informed about requests by governments for user data.

We were the first major company to publish a public transparency report sharing the number and types of government requests for user data we receive, including the requests referred to by Senator Wyden. We share the Senators commitment to keeping users informed about these requests, the spokesperson said.

The Independent has contacted Apple for comment.

Senator Ron Wyden (Getty Images)

While most smartphone users are unaware of the data protection issues associated with push notifications, tech experts have warned that they are a privacy nightmare and that they are difficult to deploy without sending data to Google or Apple.

Concerns over the protection of smartphone data by tech giants such as Apple and Google have been prevalent in the past few years.

In 2018, the Energy and Commerce Committee wrote to the heads of Apple and Google to demand they make clear whether iPhones and Android devices are collecting information about their users, and how that data is used.

The committee warned that the companies may be tracking their users, including tracking their location and listening in to what they are doing through their microphones.

Meanwhile, in 2021, Google followed Apple by rolling out nutrition labels that inform users of whether an app collects data on a users location, contacts, personal information, photo and videos, audio files, or storage files.

In recent months, US lawmakers have raised fears over the weaponization of personal data by foreign governments, particularly China.

In January 2020, the United States Army and Navy banned TikTok, which is owned by China-based tech giant ByteDance, on government devices after the Defense Department labeled it a security risk.

US lawmakers have expressed concern over the ability of the Chinese Communist Party to access the data of US citizens using the app, and have considered implementing a nationwide ban on TikTok.
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An early computer program built in the 1960s has beaten the viral AI chatbot ChatGPT at the Turing test, designed to differentiate humans from artificial intelligence.

Researchers from UC San Diego in the US tested the early chatbot ELIZA, created in the mid-1960s by MIT scientist Joseph Weizenbaum, against modern versions of the technology.

They found that ELIZA outperformed OpenAIs GPT-3.5 AI, which powers the companys free version of ChatGPT.

The Turing test has been the benchmark for determining a machines ability to imitate human conversation ever since it was first conceived in 1950 by British computer scientist Alan Turing.

The latest study required 652 human participants to judge whether they were talking to another human or an AI chatbot over the internet.

OpenAIs GPT-4 chatbot, which is more powerful than the free version of the technology, was able to trick the studys participants more frequently than ELIZA, with a success rate of 41 per cent.

A conversation with the Eliza chatbot (Wikimedia Commons)

ELIZA was able to pass itself off as a human 27 per cent of the time, while GPT-3.5 had a success rate of just 14 per cent.

AI expert Gary Marcus described the success of ELIZA as embarrassing for modern tech companies working on AI chatbots, however other academics argued that ChatGPT was not designed to perform well in the Turing test.

I think the fact that GPT-3.5 loses to ELIZA is not that surprising when you read the paper, Ethan Mollick, an AI professor at the Wharton School in the US, posted on X (formerly Twitter).

OpenAI has considered impersonation risk to be a real concern, and has RLHF [reinforcement learning from human feedback] to ensure ChatGPT doesnt try to pass as human. ELIZA very much is designed to pass using our psychology.

One of the reasons noted in the study for participants mistaking ELIZA for a human was that it was too bad to be a current AI model, and therefore was more likely to be a human intentionally being uncooperative.

Arvind Narayanan, a computer science professor at Princeton who was not involved in the research, said: As always, testing behaviour doesnt tell us about capability. ChatGPT is fine-tuned to have a formal tone, not express opinions, etc., which makes it less humanlike.

The study, titled Does GPT-4 pass the Turing test, is yet to be peer reviewed.
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Google has revealed Gemini, which it says is its largest science and engineering project ever.

It is also the companys latest attempt to catch up with rival OpenAI to develop artificial intelligence, and try and build a better system than its ChatGPT.

As such, Gemini will come to Googles Bard, the chatbot that it released in the wake of ChatGPT in an attempt to catch up. But it will also roll out to Googles Pixels phones and elsewhere.

Google admitted that it was unclear what the model actually was, and chief executive Sundar Pichai said that it was best to understand it in use.

Gemini will launch in Bard in more than 170 countries worldwide, though not the UK. Mr Pichai said it was the biggest upgrade to Bard yet.

He said: Were taking the next step on our journey with Gemini, our most capable and general model yet, with state-of-the-art performance across many leading benchmarks.

This new era of models represents one of the biggest science and engineering efforts weve undertaken as a company.

It comes as rapid advances in AI pick up pace, following ChatGPTs latest release in March, with Google following suit amid a wave of next generation generative AI models, which experts predict will be significantly more advanced.

Google claims Gemini is the first AI model to beat human experts in its range of intelligence tests.

It plans to launch in English first, but will expand to different languages and other countries in the near future.

The group did not say when it will be available in the UK, but confirmed it is in the process of granting the UK AI safety institute - unveiled at the recent AI Summit - with access to its most capable models for research and safety purposes.

Google said Gemini will be multi-modal, meaning it will be able to operate and combine different types of information across words, pictures, video and sound.

Gemini is also our most flexible model yet - able to efficiently run on everything from data centres to mobile devices, it said.

Bard will use Gemini Pro - one of three levels of the model - to allow more advanced reasoning, planning, understanding and more.

Gemini will also be built into its Pixel 8 Pro smartphones, powering new features such as summarise in its recorder app, as well as smart reply in Google keyboard, starting with WhatsApp messaging.

It confirmed it will be available across more products and services in the coming months, such as Search, Ads, Chrome and Duet AI, which is Googles AI-powered cloud assistant.

The group said it will be building in safeguards while working collaboratively with governments and experts to help head off the mounting risks from AI.

Additional reporting by Press Association
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Europes Christmas markets are a fantastic way to get in the festive spirit, and nowhere does it better than Germany.

The country where they first originated continues to devote an incredible amount of time and effort to making its markets as spectacular as possible.

It seems like every city and town up and down the European nation has its own version, from the myriad locations offered in Berlin to the rustic charm of Bavarias many markets.

Mulled wine, bratwurst and a range of regional delicacies from destinations including Erfut will keep you warm and full, while the arts, crafts and gifts on sale in cities like Dresden provide opportunities to buy presents for all the family. To top it all off, the markets often have striking backdrops, from the viaduct at Ravenna Gorge to Colognes famed cathedral.

If the thought of gluhwein and gingerbread is enough to tempt you into a festive trip to Germany, read on  weve collated a list of the countrys best Christmas markets.

Berlin

The first of Berlins Christmas markets reportedly dates back to 1530 (Getty Images)

The capital may not have the best markets in the country, but it certainly has the most. There are around 80 market locations in Berlin, ranging from smaller, more intimate collections of stalls to the largest market in town, a vast  yet still cosy  collection of stalls that combines great food with plenty of gift options in the western suburb of Spandau.

Potsdamer Platz hosts a winter village of various activities as well as market stalls, while the centrally located Gendarmenmarkt puts on a traditionally styled market and Alexanderplatz is home to a funfair-type market with a few touches of the medieval. Several locations boast over 100 stalls, and with individual markets in many of the citys neighbourhoods, just follow the smell of mulled wine and gingerbread to discover one.

Read more on Germany travel:

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is the second largest city in Bavaria (Getty Images)

Nuremberg goes big on Christmas markets, with a focus on variety and markets that cater to different groups (something that is not always seen across Europe). The Sister Cities market is a unique example, where over 20 stalls sell produce from Nurembergs sister cities, including Nice, Antalya and Krakow. Another is the Childrens Market (known as the Kinderweihnacht), where kids can try out ferris wheels and fairground rides, as well as activities such as cake making.

The Christkindelsmarkt, which takes place in the central Neumarkt, is one of the countrys most famed Christmas markets. A large area known locally as the city of wood and cloth, it contains dozens of rows of stalls selling traditional food, souvenirs and gifts, all with the magnificent backdrop of the citys 14th-century cathedral.

Rothenburg

Rothenburg is officially known as Rothenburg ob der Tauber (Getty Images)

Rothenburg may not lie on the well-trodden path of visitors to Germany, but this northern Bavarian town is the ideal setting for an atmospheric Christmas market. Mazy cobbled streets, hundreds of festoon lights and a smattering of snow on the roofs of the timber-framed buildings provide the quintessential festive backdrop, while the Reiterlesmarkt supplies the ideal venue and the usual festive specialties.

The market is spread across the Market Square, town hall and the Green Market, featuring around 50 stalls. While exploring youll likely hear carol singing and other musical performances, giving this market even more of a festive atmosphere. Dont leave without trying local comfort foods like schneeball, a fried pastry topped with powdered sugar or chocolate.

Dresden

The Striezelmarkt was founded in 1434 (Getty Images)

Dresden is another city with several markets dotted throughout, with the Frauenkirche hosting an arts and crafts market and the Mittelalter-Weihnacht carrying a medieval theme while also offering somewhat unique features, like the opportunity to buy gifts made using tools and materials from the Middle Ages.

The citys main market, the Striezelmarkt, is one of the oldest in Germany, considered by some to be the original Christmas market. It is set near the banks of the Elbe River, in the citys charming Baroque old town, and with over 200 stalls, its own ferris wheel and a giant, 14-metre high Christmas pyramid, this is one of the grandest markets in Germany.

Cologne

The construction of Colognes Cathedral began in the 13th century (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Cologne is home to several Christmas markets, from an excellent food market and the romantic Village of Angels around Neumarkt to Henzels Winter Fairytale, a winter village in the old town that features an ice rink and dozens of chalet-style stalls. The Harbour Christmas Market has one of the most picturesque settings, complete with a ferris wheel that offers views from 48 metres above.

Despite great variety across the city, the largest and most famed market is the Kolner Dom, which sits in Roncalliplatz, surrounded on one side by the dramatic Unesco-listed Cathedral. The square is filled with red-roofed market stalls that sell all the usual trinkets and German delicacies, placed around a giant Christmas tree and a stage that hosts around 100 free events between 5 and 23 December.

Erfut

Erfut is the capital of the Thuringia region (Getty Images)

Erfut is a city that really gets into the Christmas spirit come December, with a market spread that turns several squares into a veritable winter wonderland. It takes places in the citys historic quarter, surrounded by the multi-coloured facades of its Gothic buildings and sprawled across the squares of Domplatz, Fischmarkt and Willy-Brandt-Platz. Domplatz is the heart of the market, adorned with a vast, 20-metre tall Christmas tree and an equally imposing ferris wheel. Alongside the 200 or so stalls (selling everything from pottery and fabrics to Thuringian bratwurst), there are plenty of attractions for both children and adults, including fairground rides, festive floral displays and life-sized Nativity scenes.

Ravenna Gorge

The market in Ravenna Gorge is known simply as Christmas Market (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

What is likely the most picturesque market in the country  and perhaps on the continent  takes place in Germanys famed Black Forest, in a southerly section close to the border with Switzerland. Its setting is unmatched, situated at the base of a 40-metre high viaduct and intersected by its stone arches, with a sea of sparkling lights and a sprinkling of snow creating a picture-perfect backdrop.

Visit in the evening to see the bridge lit up along with the stalls, and save some room for a selection of German specialties including pork shoulder or flammkuchen, an Alsatian take on pizza. Potential gifts are sold in abundance too, from handmade glass and artisan produce to Black Forest cuckoo clocks. To reach the Gorge, take a train to Hinterzarten or Himmelreich and then board a free shuttle bus.

Goslar

Goslars Old Town is a Unesco World Heritage Site (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

For something that is more intimate while offering a true taste of the quintissential German market, head to Goslar in central Germany. Christmas there is a more humble affair than in other German towns and cities, with just two markets taking place between 6 and 30 December. The main one takes place on Market Square, where around 80 wooden huts provide arts, crafts and Christmas delicacies like gluhwein or roasted almonds in the beautiful surroundings afforded by Goslars timber-framed medieval architecture. An enchanting Christmas forest is also set up, taking place nearby in Schuhof, where 60 large conifers are decorated with lights to provide a magical festive setting,

Read our reviews of the best Germany hotels
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Conversation came to a low hush as Mishka pushed her way through the crowd. I watched her sashay down to the edge of the sea before turning back, impatient. Its not unusual for Italians to take a sunset walk before dinner  that orange sky is why I had settled myself in prime position on a tiny rocky harbour. But Mishka is a tabby cat.

Every evening, Mishka takes a walk with her owners to watch the sunset. She lives in a pastel-hued stone house on the edge of Tellaro, a village in the commune of Lerici with a population of just 1,200. The stroll takes Mishka through the small cluster of tables outside Bar La Marina, where friends and locals stop to say hello.

Tellaro isnt far from Italys most famous collection of towns, the Cinque Terre, where 2.4 million tourists descend each year. Even in shoulder season, the towns can feel a lot like Disneyland version of Italy, so its not surprising that holidaymakers are considering alternatives. I hadnt expected to find one just an hour away.

The reasons that the Cinque Terre is so beloved  the colourful houses squished right up next to one another, those nippy little passageways and stone steps  are right here in the towns of Lerici, only without the crowds.

Down by the sea in Tellaro (Getty Images)

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With its tiny harbour hidden down steps around the back of its main square, Tellaro could easily rival the Instagram-famous town of Vernazza (the #Vernazza hashtag has over half a million tags on Instagram; Tellaro has a more humble 71,000). Theres no national park status or special train fare for this part of Liguria  there isnt even a train station.

That lack of railway line has kept Lerici and its surrounding villages relatively off the radar, although one big plus point in Lericis favour is that you can drive around. In the Cinque Terre, trains or walking boots are your only options.

If youd still rather go car-free, Italys public transport system is your friend. Lerici is an easy 40-minute bus ride from La Spezia. The onward bus to Tellaro is little more than a wobbly minivan, but the cliffside views more than make up for it.

Based on location and looks alone, Lerici  the areas gateway town  could easily be compared to Monterosso, the largest of the five coastal settlements that make up the Cinque Terre. Its an abundance of cute shops and waterfront restaurants capitalising on the Bay of Poets stretching out in front of the town; the most prominent options are best avoided for lunch, stick to drinks if you want to watch the boats.

Pretty pastel hues on buildings in Lerici (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

And, where the Cinque Terre towns can feel a little homogenous, Lerici has created its own vibe and an enormous cultural calendar. I was sad to have missed the literary festival by just a few days, an event that sees author events and boat trips combine. Theres a summer music festival and  thanks in part to Keats, Shelley and Byron  several annual poetry gatherings, including a prestigious poetry prize.

Locals arent showing signs of tourism weariness, something that is evident in Cinque Terre. There was a welcoming cheeriness, even though it took me a while to realise that Ive been saying good evening in Italian each morning. Shop owners were keen to tell me about their local designers  clothes, jewellery, ceramics. The creative scene is thriving. This pride extends to the food, too. In San Terenzo, an easy hours stroll around the bay (longer, if you pause at the poetry listening stations installed along the way), Osteria La Situa focuses on hyper-local craft beers and wines made in the region. Its this town where youll find Villa Magni, the white stucco house that Percy and Mary Shelley rented until his tragic death in 1822.

The Cinque Terre

Hotel il Nido was my home for the trip, in part because its the only hotel in Tellaro with beach access; go heavy on the insect repellent as the lush green trees are real midge magnets. I suspect I would have been just as happy in the tiny town of Fiascherino, a cove of hotels and small beach resorts near DH Lawrences house, about a 20-minute walk from Lericis more luxurious sunbathing options. You could go all day without speaking to anyone, save for a hello on the cliffside walk. After the crowds of Cinque Terre, the silence is a balm.

Still, if you insist, a small ferry travels between Lerici and the Cinque Terre. But after a couple of days on the Bay of Poets, you might just decide to stay exactly where you are. If youre lucky, your aperitivo may even include a visit from Tellaros favourite cat.

Travel essentials

Getting there

You can fly to Genoa or Pisa from mainland UK airports with British Airways and easyJet. From either city, its around a 90-minute train journey to La Spezia, and a short bus ride along the coast to Lerici  all part of the adventure.

Staying there

Not only does Hotel il Nido have its own (very tiny) beach, it also has a strong commitment to Italys love of breakfast pastries.

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Read more on the best hotels on the Amalfi Coast
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The niece of GOP presidential candidate Chris Christie was arrested on Monday for an alleged drunken meltdown on a plane.

Shannon Epstein, 26, was charged with one felony of resisting police by force and two misdemeanour counts of disturbing the peace by public intoxication after an incident that took place on Thanksgiving last year.

Court records show Ms Epstein was arrested for an incident in which she was kicked off a flight for allegedly asking a Hispanic family seated nearby if they were smuggling cocaine, Nola.com reported.

The plane was taxiing to the runway at New Orleans International Airport at the time of the incident.

After the Spirit Airlines plane was returned to the gate to remove Ms Epstein from the flight, she allegedly screamed at airline employees and refused to leave the jet bridge.

Police say they were forced to tackle her to the floor when she became violent and bit an officers left bicep and tore the skin away.

Even when apprehended, she continued to struggle against handcuff, kick, spit on deputies, and attempt to break free, according to an incident report. When asked if she was aware what was happening, she responded: Im very aware, the report added.

The Jefferson Parish Sheriffs Office said it eventually took seven deputies to restrain Ms Epstein, who had to be strapped to a wheelchair after she refused to get off of the jetway and showed unusual strength while foaming at the mouth fighting the cops.

An incident report said the 26-year-old ranted about knowing Donald Trump, threatened the deputies jobs, and asked: Do you know who I am? before saying: Im Chris Christies daughter, and youre so f*****.

Six deputies reported minor injuries including scratches and bruises, authorities said.

Ms Epstein was taken to jail on Monday where she was released on a $10,750 bond the same day.

If convicted of resisting arrest, she faces at least one year in prison with a maximum sentence of three years.

Chris Christie is the former governor of New Jersey and is one of five Republican candidates in the 2024 presidential primaries.
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Since its inception in 1972, Interrailing has been a popular concept with travellers looking to see Europe on a budget.

Though originally for students, it now offers people of all ages the freedom to explore countries at their leisure while saving money on flights and avoiding having to book dozens of separate trains.

Whether you want to spend a few days travelling across France or two months traversing the length of the continent, Interrailing is an accessible option that leaves you in control.

Travel whenever you want and to wherever you want across 33 different countries, from the UK to Greece and Turkey.

With a little bit of research  from route maps to pricing options  you can easily book the European rail trip of a lifetime. Weve collated all the information you need to get planning.

What is an Interrail pass, and how do they work?

See the wonders of the continent at your leisure (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

An Interrail pass is an all-in-one ticket that allows you to travel on trains within 33 countries in Europe without having to buy separate tickets.

Global Passes offer access to several countries, with no need for specific itineraries, from 194 (168). One Country Passes give you the opportunity to explore a single country in depth, with prices starting at 51 (44).

Read more on travel inspiration:

Passes allow travel either continuously  in other words, on every day within a given timeframe  or on a flexible basis, for example on any 10 days within a given two-month period. One Country Passes start at offering three days travel within a given month, extending up to eight days, while Global Passes offer anything from four days within one month up to continuous travel over three months, the latter giving you the ultimate freedom to travel on any day you like for around 711 (618).

Passes can be used by anyone who lives in Europe  and the UK is included  with discounts for certain age groups, including over-60s and those under 27 years old (children aged between four and 11 travel for free).

How much is an Interrail pass?

A One Country Pass through the Czech Republic starts at just 73 (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

One Country Passes vary in price according to the country, with prices in Italy starting at 133 (115) and Germany available from 153 (133).

For reference, an eight-day pass in Italy would cost 235 (204). The cheapest One Country passes are as little as 47 for countries including Poland, Bulgaria and Latvia.

Global Passes start at 194 (168) for a four-day Flexi Pass, which allows travel on as many trains as you like on each of your four travel days. The most expensive Flexi Pass is 389 (338), and it allows travel on 15 different days within two months.

The second category of Global Passes, called Continuous Passes, start at 349 (303). These allow you to take as many trains as you like for 15 days straight. Such passes are also available for 22 days (408/354), one month (528/459), two months (575/500) and three months (711/609).

Included in the price is one outbound and one inbound journey into your resident country.

Which countries are included in the passes?

Interrail passes are valid in 33 different European countries (Getty Images)

According to the interrail website, passes are valid in the following countries:

Austria, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey.

What counts as a travel day?

The Interrail website states that a travel day is a 24-hour period in which you can travel on trains with your Interrail Pass. It lasts from 00.00 (midnight) to 23.59 on the same calendar day. Night trains can help you save a travel day, as you only have to use one travel day (the day of departure if the train departs before 23:59).

Helpful additional information

Passes do not cover travel on local rail services such as the metro (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Many trains can be boarded by simply showing your ticket to staff, though seat reservations need to be booked separately. Passes can be provided in paper format or delivered straight to your phone via the Interrail app.

Passes are valid on all national railways, and some private railways, in participating countries. They are not valid on local services, such as the metro, but do give discounts on some networks, including a variety of ferry networks around Finland, Estonia, Greece and Turkey.

The Interrail website is somewhat unclear in its assertion regarding some trains being included. Seat reservations are an important aspect of the pass, as your pass alone is not valid for travel on some trains  you must also have a seat reservation.

Reservations are often required in France, Spain and Germany, and are necessary on all night trains and most high-speed trains. Prices range 2 (1.74) to 20 (17.40), and must be paid for in addition to the cost of your pass.

If travelling from the UK, though you can board Eurostar trains to Paris, Amsterdam and Lille, each journey carries an additional reservation fee of 30 (26).

Loose route ideas, a railway map of Europe, FAQs and a train timetable can be found on the Interrail website.

You have up to 11 months from the date of purchase to activate your mobile pass. Do this by selecting your first travel day (the start date) and entering your passport or ID number.

The Interrail site states: Your first travel day is the start date of your Pass  you have the option to select the start date in advance or when youre ready to activate the Pass.
A cougar was filmed wandering around a Minneapolis neighbourhood this week.

An alert was issued by City of Minneapolis officials on Tuesday (5 December), reporting that the animal was seen near Kenwood Park.

Minnesota State Patrol said the cougar was hit and killed on impact by a vehicle on westbound Interstate 394 at Theodore Wirth Parkway on Wednesday.

In an update on X/Twitter, the state patrol said Minnesota Department of Natural Resources was in possession of the animal and is investigating.
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The fourth Republican debate is set for Wednesday, for whatever thats worth.

Donald Trump, the races frontrunner, will not be in attendance. Having skipped three onstage clashes of candidates so far without any negative consequences whatsoever, the former president will complete his mockery of the nominating contest this month by refusing to attend the final debate before voters head to the polls next month in Iowa and begin the race proper.

There are zero signs that Wednesdays debate will matter. A poll by NewsNation, the network hosting tomorrows event in Alabama, found Mr Trump in control of six in 10 GOP voters nationally this week  a clean 50-point margin over Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley, his two closest rivals. Worse for them, only a small fraction of the GOP indicated in the poll that a conviction in any of his four criminal cases would change their views, meaning that short of Mr Trump exiting the race, the minds of most voters are likely made up.

This spells more than one problem for the GOPs traditionalist-to-neoconservative wing, which never really embraced Donald Trump beyond the vehicle that he presented for the confirmation of conservative justices and the advancement of some conservative economic policy. For starters, it means that the GOP is likely to nominate potentially its weakest candidate in a year that otherwise would be a real opportunity for the party, thanks to concerns about the Democratic incumbents age and job performance. Secondly, the polls second-choice question revealed that Floridas Ron DeSantis is most likely to benefit the most should Mr Trump drop out  alluding to a more painful reality: the populist, isolationist hardliners still control the partys base.

Wednesdays kids table debate in Alabama will see a smaller group of Republicans in attendance; four candidates have qualified, following the suspensions of the campaigns of Doug Burgum and Tim Scott. Ms Haley and Mr DeSantis will be centre stage as rivals Chris Christie and Vivek Ramaswamy try, again, for a moment of viral relevancy to jolt their campaigns away from the brink of defeat.

But none of this matters.

Donald Trump is going to be the nominee absent some massive, cataclysmic shift in the GOP primarys dynamics. And there is absolutely no reason to believe that one is on the way, even should he be criminally convicted for allegedly showing off secret military documents to guests at his properties, or encouraging a mob of violent rioters to hunt down his enemies in the seat of American democracy.

Maybe theres still reason for those Republican establishment holdouts to cling to hope. Maybe Nikki Haley can pull off a surprise victory in New Hampshire. Maybe Ron DeSantiss visit to each one of Iowas 99 counties will pay off next month. Or maybe well just see another repeat of 2016: Donald Trump facing off against a handful of rivals unwilling to unify against him and unable to generate any comparative level of enthusiasm, before he steamrolls to the nomination. One way or another, the next two months will be a crucible for his rivals: It all comes down to the wire.

Time to find out whos playing to win.
The Dundrum local area plan was voted on by elected council members

The owner of Dundrum Town Centre in Dublin has brought a High Court challenge to a new local area plan.

Dundrum Retail GP DAC, which trades as Dundrum Retail Partnership, seeks orders quashing the plan made by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.

Alternatively, it is asking the court to declare that changes proposed to the road infrastructure and junctions used by visitors to its shopping centre are invalid.

The Dundrum local area plan was voted on by elected council members at a special council meeting last October and came into effect on November 21.

This followed widespread complaints from business owners and local residents, predominantly concerning proposed traffic restrictions.

The plan proposes retaining and extending the one-way system on Main Street, which was initially introduced as a temporary measure.

The court case was mentioned before Ms Justice Niamh Hyland by solicitor Brendan Slattery, of McCann Fitzgerald law firm.

He told the court his clients case is brought over the plan made by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.

The judge agreed to note that the judicial review has been opened before the court to bring it within the required period. She adjourned the application for leave to a date in January.

The council, as the respondent, was not notified of the application and was not present in court.

In its action, Dundrum Retail, with its registered office at Riverside One, Sir John Rogersons Quay, Dublin, alleges the councils decision to adopt the plan is invalid as it uncritically adopted transport recommendations that were completed before a draft of the plan was published for public consultation.

The council failed to approach the matter with an open mind, and the decision is vitiated by prejudgement, the company claims.

Further, it alleges, the council failed to properly consider the strategic function and importance of Dundrum Town Centre within the council area and beyond.

There was also an alleged failure to ensure the plan is consistent with the Retail Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area, which designates Dundrum as a level 2- Major Town Centre, second only to the city centre in priority, it says.

Dundrum Retail claims the council did not consider the needs of all road users, including those requiring cars to access the shopping centre, which attracts more than 14 million visitors per year and employs more than 5,000 people.

The firm is asking the court to find that protective cost provisions of section 50B of the Planning and Development Act apply to its case.

In a statement, Dundrum Retail said it believes the councils proposed changes will have a significant damaging effect on the Dundrum community.

A spokesman said that while there was limited stakeholder engagement on the plan, this occurred with undue haste during the peak summer holiday period of June 8 to July 21, meaning affected stakeholders have not been able to adequately contribute to the planning process.

This caused a street protest organised by concerned members of the local community.

The plan is based on a flawed area-based transport assessment, the spokesperson said, that only considered weekday traffic patterns and gave insufficient weight to the importance of the Dundrum Town Centre.
A private investment vehicle of EasyJet founder Stelios Haji-Ioannou has brought High Court proceedings claiming an Irish-registered company is infringing its trademark registration of the word easy.

The businessmans investment vehicle, EasyGroup Ltd, along with EasyGroup IP Ireland Ltd, is suing ER Travel Ltd, with a registered address at Main Street, Swords, Co Dublin.

EasyGroup is seeking injunctions restraining ER from offering or providing car, van or other vehicle-hire services under the name Easirent or Easirent Car Hire.

The injunction is also being sought to prevent the use of website names including easirent.ie, easirentcampervanhire.com and easirentvans.com.

It also seeks damages for passing off and orders including the forfeiture of all infringing materials or articles.

ER denies the claims. Following an application to have the EasyGroup proceedings admitted to the High Courts fast track commercial division on Monday, Mr Justice Denis McDonald adjourned it for a week to allow ER provide a replying affidavit to the entry application.

In an affidavit seeking entry to the Commercial Court, Charleen OKeeffe, partner in William Fry solicitors which represents the plaintiffs, said EasyGroup Ltd owns and/or runs several business which trade under names using the word easy together with a second word which alludes to the goods or services offered by the particular brand.

The easy family of brands includes EasyJet, EasyCar and EasyHotel.

Ms OKeeffe said the alleged infringing signs have been used on various social media accounts. Easirent.ie offers vehicle hire in Cork, Dublin and Shannon airports.

She said the defendant was called upon to desist, but when no substantive response was received, proceedings were issued.
Judge Mark Sanfey says that hearings here are unbiassed and fixes date

The parent company of the Russian state-owned transport leasing firm GTLK is unlikely to participate in proceedings brought against it in Ireland by liquidators appointed over its Dublin-registered subsidiary, because its lawyers claim it wont get a fair hearing in this jurisdiction.

Damien Murran and Julian Moroney, who are the joint liquidators to Dublin-registered GTLK Europe DAC, and GTLK Europe Capital DAC, have brought an action aimed at preventing Joint Stock Company State Transport Leasing Company from seizing ownership of dozens of aircraft.

The liquidators say that the aircraft are the property of the firms in liquidation, and the parents have no legal entitlement to the assets.

James Doherty SC for the liquidators told Mr Justice Mark Sanfey that the parent companys Russian lawyers have informed his clients that it will not take part in the proceedings before the Irish courts citing various reasons.

Counsel, appearing with Stephen Byrne BL, said that the defendants lawyers have said the dispute over the aircraft should be determined by the Russian courts, and that it doesnt believe it would get a fair hearing in Ireland.

Counsel said that his side does not accept any contention that it would not get a fair hearing, adding that Russian companies have taken part and have been represented in actions brought before courts in the UK.

Mr Justice Sanfey agreed that any contention by the defendants lawyers that it would not get a fair trial in Ireland was without foundation. He acknowledged the urgency of the matter, and fixed the hearing of the action to a date later this month.

He added that the option of taking part in the proceedings, where it could contest the liquidators claim that the action should be determined by the Irish courts, remains open to the Russian parent.

The liquidators proceedings have been brought over an attempt by the parent to register itself as the legal owners of aircraft, currently based in Russia.

GTLKs parent, which is owned by the Russian Federation, says it is entitled to be registered as the legal owner under pledge agreements governed by Russian law, allegedly entered into between it, GTLK Europe, and nine other GTLK Europe group companies registered In Ireland.

The pledge agreements were allegedly entered into in March 2022, two weeks before the parent became the subject of EU sanctions imposed over Russias invasion of Ukraine, it is claimed.

The parent claims that the pledge agreements were made to secure the repayment of loans from the parent to GTLK Europe between 2017 and 2022.

The liquidators claim the parent will seek to rely on the pledge agreements to wrongfully seize the title over the aircraft, secure payment under the loan agreements, and declare itself the owner of the aircraft under an out-of-court enforcement of the pledges in the Russian Federation.

The liquidators do not accept that the parent is entitled to legal title to the aircraft through the enforcement of the pledge agreements. GTLKs Europes international leasing HQ is here.
The deal with Japanese investment giant SoftBank sees Barry Napiers firm become one of Irelands most valuable tech companies

Cubic Telecom, the Dublin-based connectivity software firm, has received a 473m investment from the Japanese mega-investor, SoftBank, valuing the firm at 927.4m.

In one of the biggest ever investment deals for an Irish firm, Softbank will receive a 51pc share in the company with current investors selling down to retain the other 49pc.

The deal, which is expected to close in the first half of 2024, represents a significant return for the pre-existing joint largest shareholder, CEO Barry Napier, as well as for Irish investors ACT and the Irish Strategic Investment Fund.

Mr Napier will continue to be CEO and a board member of the acquired company, which will become a subsidiary of SoftBank.

Cubic Telecom, which employs 330 people, already had over 140m in investment from its biggest investors, including Volkswagen and the semiconductor firm Qualcomm. The Brazilian payments and telecoms firm Valid is also an investor.

Many of the companys Irish staff look set to benefit from the deal thanks to an employee share ownership plan in place.

Cubic Telecomss biggest business is in connecting cars and other vehicles such as tractors, motorbikes and trucks to online services, using 90 mobile network operator deals in over 190 countries around the world. The companys connectivity is built into vehicles and machinery when theyre manufactured, making them into smart devices that can stream content, interact with app stores or support full autonomy. The company says that it currently connects more than 17 million vehicles and is seeing 450,000 new vehicles connect every month, a figure it expects to increase exponentially over the next five years.

It has also built software services and connection technology for other industries, including drones and computer system platforms. Clients include companies from Irish drone firm Manna to John Deere.

Industry estimates project demand for billions of new connections between manufactured objects and telecoms networks. Cubic Telecoms biggest sales pitch is that it has already negotiated agreements with multiple operators, as well as setting up the technical systems to comply with regulatory and operational issues in multiple countries and regions.

We believe Cubic can be the most significant technology company to emerge from Ireland over the coming decade, said John Flynn, managing partner of ACT, the Dublin-based venture capital firm who remains an investor.

It has become a world leader in IoT mobile connectivity. By collaborating with SoftBank, which has an extensive customer base in Japan and other Asia-Pacific countries and regions, Cubic Telecom will gain access to new sales channels to further build on its market leadership position. SoftBank and Cubic Telecom will also explore ways to develop new services, such as utilising satellite and stratospheric-based non-terrestrial network based solutions that provide seamless connectivity to vehicles and IoT devices in areas that cannot be reached by traditional ground-based networks. Barry and his exceptional team have delivered excellent growth in this explosive market.

Cubic Telecoms board will gain three SoftBank members, including the Japanese giants senior vice president for global business, Daichi Nozaki. Three Board seats will continue to be held by Cubic Telecoms existing shareholders, including Volkswagens Cariad division and Qualcomm.

Todays announcement reflects a strong investment return for ISIF and a strong performance by the Cubic team, said Nick Ashmore, director of the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF).

ISIFs investment in Cubic Telecom is a clear example of its double bottom line mandate in action, investing on a commercial basis to support the scaling of an Irish indigenous business and so supporting economic activity and the creation of high value employment in Ireland.

Cubics platform allows manufacturers to monitor, manage and update a vehicle or device over the air, globally, through mobile connectivity. It means that vehicles and devices can receive new features and functionality that can be tailored, the company says, to the requirements of a country or regions regulatory rules.

In line with our Beyond Japan strategic growth initiative, we are extremely pleased to be teaming up with Cubic Telecom to make a full-fledged entry into the fast-growing market for high-value IoT asset connectivity, said Junichi Miyakawa, president and CEO of SoftBank.

With its global leadership position, we are convinced Cubic Telecom is the best partner for this opportunity and we look forward to building connectivity platforms for next-generation social infrastructure.
Elon Musks two fingers to Oireachtas Committee overshadows session on disinformation

X was conspicuous by its absence at the Oireachtas Media Committees session on disinformation, which discussed the role of tech platforms during the Dublin riots

Adrian Weckler Wed 6 Dec 2023 at 18:48

Elon Musk didnt bother sending anyone to the Irish parliamentary systems hearings on disinformation and the Dublin riots.
Frozen star Kristen Bell performed a song cut from the original film that holds a very special place in my heart in honour of its composer Christophe Beck.

The Hollywood actress, 43, appeared among stars including Breaking Bads Bryan Cranston and Harry Potter director Chris Columbus at the Education Through Music (ETM-LA) annual gala at the Skirball Cultural Centre in Los Angeles.

The gala was honouring composer Beck with a Shining Star award on the 10th anniversary of hit Disney film Frozen, which he told the PA news agency gave him a sense of belonging and a real sense of accomplishment.

Appearing on stage after he was honoured, Bell joked Im the Queen of Arendelle in reference to her film character Anna.

Im going to sing a couple of songs for you tonight and they are exactly what you expect, Frozen. But Im going to keep it unexpected, a song that was cut from the film, she told the audience.

Early on in the development of Frozen, our creators played around with this idea of heir and a spare and how that dynamic affected the sisters, and although the song didnt make it into the film, it makes so crystal clear to me who Anna was and it just holds a very special place in my heart.

This song is titled Spare and it takes place right after a moment where Anna is walking through the city of Arendelle and she overhears out-of-town people refer to her as just the spare sister.

Bell congratulated Beck on being honoured and described her Frozen family as very close, before singing a second song from comedy series Central Park  which she starred in after Frozen co-star delicious Josh Gad asked her  entitled Little Good.

Josh Gad stars as Olaf in Frozen (Matt Crossick/PA)

This song, it resonated with me from the second I heard it, I think about it almost on a weekly basis because I just think the message is so very important and I hope it resonates with you as well, Bell said.

Speaking about the ETM-LA charity, whose mission it is to provide music to under-resourced US schools, she said: Music is imperative, it is vital, music is a language we all deserve to speak.

Earlier in the night, Bell appeared on stage to sing Frozens Do You Want To Build A Snowman? with children from schools in Los Angeles who have been involved with the charity.

Beck, whose credits include Ant-Man and The Pink Panther, was presented his award by Mrs Doubtfire director Columbus.

On stage he said: Chris Beck and I first worked on a movie together that none of us should have made, it was not a particularity good film.

Chris saw the picture and agreed to write the score, possibly because he was given the wrong prescription at the optometrist that day, maybe he had gambling debt, but whatever the reason he crafted an emotionally rich soundtrack to a mediocre film.

Director Chris Columbus appeared on stage to honour Christophe Beck (Ian West/PA)

To say he elevated the movie is an understatement, he literally turned water into wine and that made me fall madly in love with the soulful, complex music of Christophe Beck and it was a beginning of a wonderful collaboration.

Columbus added that he believes Beck deserves a place on that mountain alongside the worlds greatest composers, including Star Wars and Jurassic Parks John Williams.

Cranston appeared on stage to present a Shining Star award to his hero sister Amy, who was honoured for her organisation SEL4CA (Social Emotional Learning Alliance for California).

While I am the charlatan of the family, Amy is the real deal, the US actor said.

We were raised here in the San Fernando Valley by two aspirational but unstable actors, imagine that.

There were happy years until they werent and thats when Amy was born, so Amy being quite a bit younger than my older brother and I, didnt get to enjoy the benefit of all the good times.

She grew up among struggling parental dynamic to navigate her way through choppy waters of a broken family.

Bryan Cranston honoured his sister Amy during an annual charity gala (Doug peters/PA)

Cranston said he was seven or eight years older than she was so I was on my way, she didnt have that luxury.

As a young teen she was left on her own and as any high school kid would, took advantage of her unbridled freedom, the lack of structure, and at 16 she took off, she left school went to California, he said.

Cranston said his sister achieved her GED (General Education Diploma), then went to nursing school, before getting her bachelors degree and a teaching certificate, which led her to a masters degree and eventually her doctorate in education.

Kids, if you want to achieve great things drop out of school as soon as you can.
Mathematician and author Hannah Fry has plenty fun looking at the science behind this everyday kitchen essential

Readers of a certain age will remember the days when television didnt start until the afternoon.

For anyone unlucky enough to be stuck with just RTE  and we were lucky enough not to be  that meant very late in the afternoon. Teatime, basically.

If you were a kid in the 1970s and happened to be off school sick for a few days, your choice of morning viewing was limited to the test card or the Open University (OU) lectures, which the BBC showed either in the morning or very late at night, after regular programming had ended.

Watched today  and theres a ton of them available on YouTube  those old OU programmes are a nostalgic hoot. You might not have the foggiest notion of what the lecturers, invariably men, are talking about, but at least you can have a good laugh at the horrible hairstyles and naff clothes. Cheesecloth shirts and jackets with lapels the width of the M50 abound.

Whenever the Open University logo appears on TV these days, its more likely to be attached to a series like The Secret Genius of Modern Life (BBC2, Wednesday, December 6), presented by mathematician and author Hannah Fry, owner of the dirtiest and most infectious laugh heard on television since Sid James.

Intellectual snobs like to accuse popular science programmes of dumbing-down  as though making complex ideas and subjects accessible and understandable to a general audience is somehow a negative thing

Intellectual snobs like to accuse popular science programmes of dumbing-down  as though making complex ideas and subjects accessible and understandable to a general audience is somehow a negative thing.

The irony of The Secret Genius of Modern Life is that while its outwardly bright and breezy, it does a far better job of honouring the BBCs Reithian principle to educate, inform and entertain the audience than a lot of the more worthy programmes.

Its a blindingly simple idea: pick everyday objects viewers take for granted and explore the science behind them.

In this second season, Fry has already looked at the passport, the vacuum cleaner and the smartphone. This week its the turn of that scientific marvel, the microwave oven.

And it really is a marvel, even if most of us use it for nothing more challenging than heating up beans or cooking a ready meal.

As Fry learns at the end, the next generation of microwaves will be far more smart and sophisticated than the one currently sitting in your kitchen. But there s plenty of other stuff to get through before that  and all of it was fascinating.

We all know what a microwave oven does, but how to best explain how it does it? Fry blows air over the neck of a bottle half-filled with water. You know what happens: it makes a noise.

Microwave ovens work the same way, only instead of a stream of air being blown, its a stream of electrons, and instead of the neck of a bottle, theres a little gizmo called a cavity magnetron, a high-power vacuum tube thats the key to everything.

Any good science programme worth its sodium chloride will have a dont try this at home moment. Here, its when Fry puts a light bulb inside a microwave oven and turns on the power.

When the electron waves hit the bulb, they cause the charged particles in the filament to move, and hey presto, the bulb glows. Responsible adults will, of course, want to try this at home the first chance they get.

If the experiment is fun, the history is fascinating. World War II radar technology, which itself developed Robert Watson-Wattss breakthrough in storm detection, led two scientists to invent the magnetron.

But the father of the microwave oven was an American inventor called Percy Spencer, who never went to college. He was working for an electronics company when a magnetron accidentally zapped and melted the nut cluster bar in his pocket.

Throw in popcorn,1950s traffic control, communications technology, the Faraday cage (every oven has one built in) and some cryogenically frozen hamsters and it all adds up to perfect popular science TV.

As for the microwave oven of the future, its already here and can cook multiple foods perfectly all at the same time. It costs about 12,000

As for the microwave oven of the future, its already here and can cook multiple foods perfectly all at the same time. It costs about 12,000.

Youll have to excuse me: I need to go and warm up some baked beans and a light bulb for lunch.

The Secret Genius of Modern Life airs on Wednesday, December 6 at 8pm on BBC2
Hes a horrible little man, he cant contain himself  TD Michael Healy-Rae shouts at Aodhan O Riordain after accuses of telling lies

A bitter row has broken out in the Dail over immigration, with TDs accusing each other of intolerance.

Labour Party spokesman for justice, Aodhan O Riordain, returned to attacks he made last week on the Rural Independent Group  over which its leader Mattie McGrath said he is considering a Garda complaint.

Michael Healy-Rae TD shouted in response that the Dublin Bay North TD was a horrible little man and his Labour Party was irrelevant in Irish politics.

Mr O Riordain said the groups motion on capping immigration was lowest common denominator politics from a group made up of the lowest common denominator.

There is nothing more despicable, more cowardly, more debase in Irish politics than the actions of the Rural Independents in relation to the immigration question, he added.

Mr McGrath, whose group motion branded Government policy reckless, complained that his alliance was not receiving due regard as messengers of the people.

Mattie McGrath and Aodhan O Riordain

Other TDs were running around with the communist flag around them, he said.

His colleague, Carol Nolan TD, said: We have put out the welcome mat to those fleeing here but this has resulted in this nation becoming a doormat. The motion referred to unvetted single males in the influx of asylum seekers and urged stricter legislation.

They were being housed in small rural locations without any consultation with local communities.

Mr O Riordain said the Rural Independents had linked immigration with criminality on five different occasions over the last month.

In contrast, immigrants were holding our society together, he said, and there was nothing to be feared from their assistance to the Irish economy.

The Dail was threatened with suspension several times by the stand-in chair, Verona Murphy, as disorder broke out.

Paul Murphy of People Before Profit claimed the Rural Independents were at pains to claim that the Dublin riots had nothing to do with the far-right.

They were whitewashing the role of the far-right, he said.

There was now disgustingly, an attempt to use the riots to press the idea that immigration asylum seekers are a problem, he said.

The RIG was using the language of the far right, talking about unvetted single males and blaming them for the housing crisis. Its really disgusting stuff, Mr Murphy complained.

TD Michael Healy-Rae

His colleague, Mick Barry TD, poured scorn on mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor, who has demanded the deportation of immigrants to Ireland who commit crimes here.

If enforced in the United States, this would lead to the deportation of McGregor himself, Mr Barry said, referring to a five-year-old incident in which the fighter smashed the window of a bus in New York. McGregor was promoting an ultra-macho, toxic masculinity on social media, which was bad news for women, LGBTQ people, society and young men.

But Carol Nolan TD said record inward migration was coming in the context as record-breaking homelessness.

The cold hard reality of these statistics reveal that the breaking point has not just been reached but shattered, she said.

The State should unashamedly, and without reservation, prioritise the welfare of its own citizens, she added.

Just look at the thousands who arrived having destroyed their documentation. We cannot survive being taken for fools and having our generosity abused.

The Taoiseach later said 100,000 Ukrainians fleeing war had come to Ireland and 75,000 had been accommodated, with 14,000 in schools. The response to community concerns was not perfect, but he predicted it would be looked back on pride in 20 years. He was answering Fianna Fail TD John McGuinness, who said the Department of Integration was not responsive to contacts from public representatives.
Irish language hip-hop trio Kneecap have made movie history with a new film on their West Belfast origins becoming the first movie in Irish to be selected at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival.

KNEECAP, featuring the band along with several big-name Irish Hollywood stars, will premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in Utah on its opening night, Thursday, January 18.

The film stars the bands Mo Chara, Moglai Bap and DJ Provai in their acting debuts.

They will feature alongside Academy Award nominated Michael Fassbender (Steve Jobs, 12 Years a Slave), Simone Kirby (Hidden Assets, Jimmys Hall) and Josie Walker (Belfast, The Wonder).

Kneecap said wherever they go, they aim to smash preconceptions about cultural identity, language and highlight the role of the working classes to overthrow oppressive power.

We're immensely proud of the film and can't wait to get it to cinemas around the world, they said, adding that they are looking forward to brining their message from West Belfast to the silver screen.

The group, who rap in Irish about topics such as their republicanism first arrived on the music scene in 2017 with their single C.E.A.R.T.A. They are preparing to release their debut album in 2024.

The new feature film is set in West Belfast in 2019, chronicling how fate brings the trio together and how they then go on to change the sound of Irish music forever.

The Sundance Film Festival, established in 1978, is the world's most prestigious festival dedicated to independent films, screening titles such as The Usual Suspects, Reservoir Dogs and In Bruges.

KNEECAP is the first non-US film to ever be selected for the NEXT section of the festival.

Director Rich Peppiatt said it is an honour to be breaking new ground for Irish language cinema.

When I first set out to make a film in a language I didn't speak, set in a place I'm not from, little could I have imagined four years later we would be introducing Kneecap the movie to the world at the Mecca of Independent cinema, he said.

The Sundance Film Festival will take place between January 18-28 in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah with KNEECAP screening on the opening night.

KNEECAP will be released in Irish cinemas by Wildcard and Curzon in 2024.
A software engineer has been awarded 74,000 for injuries sustained when he fell off his motorbike, skidding 200 metres along the road, after being cut across by an unknown driver on a motorway slip road.

The High Court made the award to Aidan Crum against the Motor Insurers Bureau of Ireland (MIBI), which is funded out of the insurance policies of every motorist to compensate victims of uninsured or untraced drivers.
Environment minister Eamon Ryan has said the mood among negotiating teams at Cop28 is slightly positive despite the UNs climate chief warning of alarmingly slow progress.

Simon Stiell delivered a robust rallying call to the 190-plus governments represented at the talks as the climate summit moves into its second week.

At the end of next week, we need Cop to deliver a bullet train to speed up climate action, he said.

We currently have an old caboose chugging over rickety tracks.

Talks on the Global Stocktake are the key item on the summit agenda.

It is meant to identify exactly where the gaps in climate action lie in individual countries and collectively, and then set out what accelerated measures are needed to get back on track.

The contentious question of a fossil fuel phase-out is the major sticking point.

Mr Stiell said the responses submitted by countries to the stocktake were a grab bag of wish lists and heavy on posturing.

All governments must give their negotiators clear marching orders: we need highest ambition, not point-scoring or lowest common denominator politics, he said.

Lets be honest - good intentions wont halve emissions this decade or save lives right now.

Cop28 is under way in Dubai (AP)

Minister Ryan said he agreed with Mr Stiell but added he felt there was cause for optimism.

It is not beyond the bounds of possibility that it could be quite a positive Cop if things dont trip up, he said.

He said he was hopeful of getting a commitment to some form of a phase-out of fossils fuels into the text of the final agreement next week.

It will be very difficult but thats what were pushing for, he said.

Aside from that aspect, talks had been sluggish on the issue of climate adaptation  how countries prepare for the inevitable impacts of the climate change already baked in  and on climate finance.

Earlier in the summit, US economist Jeffrey Sachs drew attention to the contrast between spending on wars and spending on climate action.

Global spending on defence had reached $2.7 trillion a year which would go a long way to totally transforming the worlds energy systems into green alternatives.

We need the climate finance to massively outweigh the defence spending, Mr Ryan said.

Conflict and climate are inextricably connected. The areas where you have conflict are connected by the fact that they are the most stressed by climate change.

Another scientific report published today emphasised that time was running out for action to maintain a safe world.

The Global Tipping Points report from the University of Exeter said the world was on the verge of five major and irreversible changes due to climate change and nature loss.

These included the loss of the Greenland and West Antarctic ice sheets, warm-water coral reefs and permafrost regions and the destabilisation of the North Atlantic Subpolar Gyre circulation, a pattern of currents that helps maintain some predictability in weather systems.

The summit officially suspends for a day tomorrow as is traditional at the half-way mark, but informal talks will be continuing between governments, ministers and negotiating teams. outside the venue.
Health, poverty, climate action and the economy are the top priorities for Irish voters six months out from the next European elections, a new survey has shown.

Half of Irish people want the issue of public health addressed by the European Parliament as a matter of priority. It compares to just 34pc of EU citizens as a whole.

Irish voters also see the fight against poverty and social exclusion, action against climate change, economic support and the creation of jobs as matters that should be of top priority.

The latest Eurobarometer survey was conducted between September and October, revealing the main issues for the electorate before they cast their vote in the next European elections in June.

Just 14pc of Irish citizens see the EUs defence and security, including the protection of EUs external borders as a matter that should be addressed as a priority by the European Parliament.

This compares to almost one in four EU citizens as a whole.

More Irish voters name matters of migration and asylum as the most important issue compared to their peers in other EU member states. Some 23pc of Irish voters and 18pc of EU citizens see it as a top topic.

While the defence of democracy is a top priority for EU citizens, Irish voters believe the protection of human rights in the EU and worldwide and the protection of the freedom of movement are most important.

Some 29pc of Irish voters put freedom of movement as the value that should be defended as a leading matter of priority, compared to 16pc of EU citizens as a whole.

While less Irish people could correctly answer what month and year the next European elections will be held compared to their counterparts in other member states, Irish people continue to have a much more favourable view of EU membership.

While 81pc of Irish voters believe EU membership is a good thing, just 61pc of EU citizens feel the same.

When asked whether Ireland has benefited or not from being an EU member state, some 92pc believed Ireland has benefited.

This compares to 72pc of EU citizens as a whole who believe their country has benefited from membership.

Irish voters predominantly see the EU in a positive light and also believe the actions of the EU have an impact on day-to-day life.

Some 42pc of Irish voters said they did not know when the next European elections will be held and just 18pc correctly answered the month and year of the next vote.

Despite this, 67pc said they are likely to vote in the next election, in line with the EU average.

However, less Irish voters aged between 15 and 24 said they were likely to vote compared to their peers across the EU.

Almost three-quarters of all respondents think that their standard of living will decrease in the next year with over a third of Europeans reporting having difficulties paying bills sometimes or most of the time.
Hospital staff across the country will walkout during lunchtime today amid an ongoing dispute over the recruitment freeze in the HSE.

Clerical and administrational staff will walk out of 15 hospitals today and seven hospitals tomorrow in Dublin, Donegal, Galway, Kerry, Kilkenny, Limerick, Louth, Mayo, Tipperary, Westmeath, Wexford, Clare, Cork, Kildare, Sligo, and Waterford.

Members of hospital staff who are also Forsa trade union members will leave their workplace for one hour during lunchtime between 12.45pm and 1.45pm.

The protest is a response to HSE halting all recruitment in clerical and administrative grades in recent weeks as the health services are approaching the challenging mid-winter period.

Clerical and admin staff at the HSE are not responsible for budget overruns, Forsas national secretary for Health and Welfare Ashley Connolly said.

Despite extensive engagement by Forsa, the HSE remains unwilling to acknowledge that vacant posts must be filled.

At this time of year, the health services need to be fully staffed, not understaffed.

These protests are the next step in our campaign of industrial action, providing an opportunity for health workers to voice their opposition to the continuing recruitment freeze, while minimising the effect on service delivery or service users, she explained.

As part of the industrial action, Forsas clerical and administrative staff have been instructed not to undertake any tasks or responsibilities associated with any vacant post, not to carry out duties of higher grades and strictly adhere to the rules governing their post.

Since October 27, as the action escalated, members have been advised not to use their work mobile phone outside their working hours unless it is an emergency, and decline to work over weekends and bank holidays.

A spokesperson for the HSE said: Throughout the Forsa strike action we will continue to conduct risk assessments to monitor any likely impacts to services.

"Derogations will be sought through our dialogue with Forsa, to ensure the protection of services, and to ensure that there is no risk to patients or emergencies throughout this dispute.

In response to the recruitment freeze, the HSE said funding was provided by Government to recruit over 6,000 new posts in 2023 to support the development of services.

"We reached that target before the end of the year, hence the temporary pause. During 2023 we also filled 13,000 replacement posts, said the spokesperson.

The Government has made it clear that we must not recruit beyond our agreed target.

"Conscious of this and of the pace of recruitment this year, in recent months we put in place controls in relation to the recruitment of management and administration staff.

"We then implemented a recruitment pause for management and administration (including clerical and administrative staff in hospitals and community services) early in October.

"This was extended further across the HSE to other staff categories on November 10.

"We are obliged to put in place responsible controls and measures, an HSE spokesperson added.

The list of hospitals affected by the walk-out are below:

Wednesday 6th December

Donegal

Letterkenny University Hospital

Dublin

St. Vincents Hospital Dublin

Our Lady's Hospital, Crumlin

James Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown

Dr Steeven's Hospital, Dublin

Galway

University Hospital Galway

Kerry

University Hospital, Kerry

Kilkenny

St Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny

Limerick

St Josephs Hospital, Mulgrave Street, Limerick

UHL, Dooradoyle, County Limerick

Louth

Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital

Mayo

University Hospital, Castlebar

Tipperary

General Hospital, Tipperary

Westmeath

Mullingar Hospital

Wexford

Wexford General Hospital

Thursday 7th December

Clare

Ennis Hospital

Cork

Cork University Hospital

Dublin

Loughlinstown Hospital

Kildare

Naas Hospital

Sligo

Sligo University Hospital

Tipperary

Nenagh General Hospital

Waterford

Waterford General Hospital
Leo Varadkar has made clear the Government wants a ceasefire between Israel and Palestine

Ireland favours the recognition of the state of Palestine, but wants to do it as part of an EU-wide move, the Taoiseach has told the Dail.

Leo Varadkar was urged by Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik to take the brave and bold step to be the first European country to formally acknowledge Palestinian statehood.

She also urged enactment of the Occupied Territories Bill, which would block certain Israeli imports to Ireland.

But Mr Varadkar said the advice of a number of attorneys-general was that the Bill could not be put on the statute book because trade was an EU competence.

Ms Bacik said the EU had been far too passive for far too long on the Middle East conflict.

Mr Varadkar said he would be pressing at European Council level next week for a text that will call for permanent ceasefire and press for the two-state solution.

But the Labour leader said: Your Government can do more here at home as well.

She urged acceptance of Senator Frances Blacks Occupied Territories Bill, saying the proposed legislation had previously received cross-party support in both the Seanad and the Dail.

We should also recognise Palestinian statehood. You made that commitment in the Programme for Government, Ms Bacik said.

Is not now the time to take this brave and bold action unilaterally, as we did to end South Africa's brutal apartheid regime?

We can do more to impose trade sanctions on Israel.

The Taoiseach said the advice to Government was that the Occupied Territories Bill can't be enacted by the Dail because trade is an EU competence.

And that's been the view now for three or four attorneys-general from all sorts of different backgrounds, Mr Varadkar said.

The Government favours the recognition of the State of Palestine, and this House and the Seanad have passed motions to that effect.

We don't believe that the best way to do it is unilaterally. That will be dismissed. It will be ineffectual, and we will be seen as an outlier, acting unilaterally, at a European level.

We would like to do it as part of a group of European countries. I think that will be a more significant statement.

"And that's the kind of conversation that we're having at the moment, for example with Spain, which has a similar view to ours, and some other countries as well.
Shane Phelan, Legal Affairs Editor at Mediahuis Ireland, pictured after he was awarded the Mental Health Champion at the Mental Health Media Awards in the Gibson Hotel. Photo: Frank McGrath

The Irish Independents Legal Affairs Editor Shane Phelan has been given the Mental Health Media Champion award at this years Headline Mental Health Media Awards.

The award, which is in its second year, is given to a journalist who consistently champions mental health stories.

I was told the way Headline and Shine see it, that if this was the Oscars, this is the equivalent of the lifetime achievement award, said Anton Savage, who hosted the event.

Mr Phelan was given the award for his coverage of the treatment given to young mental health service users at the South Kerry Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS).

This category is different in that its not for just one piece of work. Its for a body of work. Its for consistently showing up, consistently championing mental health stories regardless of how difficult they are, Aine OMeara, Headlines programme leader said.

The fallout and the impact of that work was felt nationally, and we felt that we couldnt let another year go by without recognising that work, she added.

Shane Phelan said he was floored to have received the award.

This is a really big deal for me to get this, he said.

Im looking around the room today and I see so many great journalists who have contributed hugely to raising awareness of mental health issues.

The skills required to tell such vital and difficult stories shouldnt be underestimated.

So to be standing here amongst you with this, is truly an honour.

Mr Phelan paid tribute to Dr Maya Sharma, the consultant psychiatrist who blew the whistle on what was happening at South Kerry CAMHS.

Without Dr Sharmas bravery, we might never have known all of the terrible things that were happening at South Kerry CAMHS.

At a time where certain sections of society seem to be convulsed by the issue of immigration, its worth highlighting that this was an immigrant who uncovered this scandal and had the gumption to do something about it.

Mr Phelan also spoke about the treatment of whistleblowers in Ireland and how Dr Sharma had paid a high price for coming forward.

He also thanked the parents and children whom he met and spoke to for his work, for trusting him with their stories.

RTE Investigates won in the Mental Health Broadcasting Long Form category while Newstalk's Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan claimed the award in the Mental Health Broadcasting Short Form category.

The Student Journalism Award went to Valerie McHugh from University of Galway for her documentary Is it me or my OCD?

While the award for the Shine Audience Choice Award went to the Unspoken Podcast for the episode, Living with anxiety: Clodagh shares her unspoken.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar hits out after Sinn Fein leader alleges delay in government response

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has come under fire for claiming the Government had not contacted the school at the centre of a horror knife attack that sparked the Dublin riots.

During a debate on a motion of no confidence in Justice Minister Helen McEntee, Ms McDonald alleged it took nearly two weeks for government to reach out to the school community and questioned where the emergency response from the Coalition had been.

The claim was made as the Government successfully defeated the Sinn Fein motion by 83 votes to 63.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar interrupted Ms McDonalds speech, saying she had quite disgracefully misled the Dail and that there had been contact from the Government within 24 hours of the events.

She knows that, its deliberately misleading, he added.

Ms McDonald declined to withdraw her comments, saying: I am stating the facts on the record of the Dail.

However, Ms McDonald was among a number of local politicians who attended a meeting with parents of those affected by the attack in Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoes office on Monday night.

Along with Mr Donohoe and Ms McDonald, the two other Dublin Central TDs  Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon and Green TD Neasa Hourigan  attended the meeting, as did locally-based senators Marie Sherlock of Labour and Fianna Fails Mary Fitzpatrick. Its completely factually incorrect what she said, a source at the meeting said.

A Sinn Fein spokesperson said: This was the first meeting which a government minister attended with parents of the school, which is exactly what she was referring to.

During the Dail debate, government TDs were also quick to highlight a number actions taken by the State when it emerged three children and school worker were attacked outside Gaelscoil Cholaiste Mhuire in Dublin city centre.

Education Minister Norma Foley said the Department of Educations National Educational Psychological Service was on site on the day of the attack, offering assistance to staff, pupils and parents, and remained on site to provide help over the following days.

Ms Foley also spoke to the principal of the school on the day of the stabbing.

In her contribution, Ms McEntee said Sinn Fein wants instability when the people want stability. She added: Sinn Feins instinct is to sack, sue and bully. Anyone in their own party with an independent thought is bullied until they comply or leave.

Mr Varadkar dismissed the Sinn Fein motion as a political stunt and added that sacking Ms McEntee or Garda Commissioner Drew Harris would be a victory for those who led the riots in the capital two weeks ago.

It would embolden them to strike again and that should be sufficient to vote with the Government here, the Taoiseach said.

Mr Varadkar said Sinn Fein speaks about war crimes being carried out by Israel in Gaza but does not acknowledge the war crimes carried out by the Provisional IRA.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin there was not the slightest hint of sincerity in Sinn Feins motion seeking to force Ms McEntee from office.

Mr Martin said that despite Ms McDonald claiming that the dogs in the street knew the riots were coming, she had not once raised the imminent danger in the last three months in the Dail.

He said that for a party with Sinn Feins connections to crime should not talk about someone being taken out, as Louise OReilly said about Ms McEntee.

The Fianna Fail leader added that the atmosphere that feeds aggression was also created in Dail Eireann by opposition politicians.

During her contribution, Ms McDonald said the streets of the north inner city had not been safe for some time and there is a constant hum of menace in the city. She said the response of the Government had been, at best, to skirt around the problem, and at worst to completely abandon the communities concerned.

She said the school worker had bravely stood between the Parnell Square attacker and the children in her care. But what happened thereafter constituted a catastrophic collapse in public safety, with mayhem and destruction on the streets of the capital. Gardai were also in the way of danger, she said. But the riots were entirely predictable and there had been no plan to contain them.

To be clear, I have full confidence in An Garda Siochana. I have zero confidence in the minister for justice, she said, adding that anyone guilty of such grave failure in the private sector would be sacked.

Sinn Fein justice spokesman Pa Daly TD said garda numbers were too low and resignations at an all-time high, while the force had been unable to recruit to the Garda Reserve since 2017.

Mr Daly said after 13 years of Fine Gael in government, there were fewer garda stations and fewer gardai on the streets.

He said Fine Gaels response to the riots had been the chilling proposal at its parliamentary party meeting to cut peoples social welfare.
PUBLIC Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe has refused to say whether he has held talks about becoming the next managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Mr Donohoe again refused to rule out speculation linking him with the position as he answered media questions for the first time since Bloomberg reported last Friday that he had held preliminary conversations about becoming head of the IMF next September.

Speaking in Dublin on Wednesday, Mr Donohoe refused to say whether he discussed taking up the IMF role, which comes with basic salary of around 480,000-a-year, when he met with US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen in Washington DC last week.

He said he was focused on continuing his work in government, as chair of the Eurogroup of eurozone finance ministers and as a Fine Gael TD in Dublin Central. I've been very clear that my interest is in continuing in my work in Irish and European politics, he said.

I'm very privileged to be a member of this government and a TD for Dublin Central and I've been reelected to a second term as president of the Eurogroup. That's where my focus is; on completing that work.

Asked if he was completely ruling out becoming managing director of the IMF, he said: So there is no vacancy for that role, there is no vacancy and I've made clear where my focus is.

My focus is on the jobs that I've been privileged enough to have and to hold at the moment, which is as a TD, as a minister and as president of the Eurogroup. That's where my focus is and that's what I'm committed to.

He said that the current managing director, Kristalina Georgieva, is doing an excellent job and that at some point she will make a decision on her future.

For many years I stood in front of you all and at the different points you asked about what's my intention in the future; what other ambitions I have in Irish politics and I answered those questions plainly at the time, and I'm doing so again today, he said.

He said that an election is due within the next 12 to 18 months and that the three coalition parties have the ability to campaign individually, but get reelected and reform this government and thats where my energy will lie.

Mr Donohoe declined to comment on his discussions with Ms Yellen last week after Bloomberg reported that the pair dined together. Mr Donohoe was in Washington DC as part of his Eurogroup role for much of last week.

So it's a long standing principle of engagement that I have with economic leaders all over the world that those discussions are kept private, he said.

I don't reveal what are the discussions that I have with any other minister. They bring up confidential things with me, I bring up confidential things with them.

He said Ms Yellen had issued a readout form their meeting which said the discussions focused on cooperation between the EU and the US, the war in Ukraine and other issues.

Mr Donohoe was speaking after he launched the action plan for designing better public services at the National College of Art and Design.

Meanwhile, asked about speculation linking Finance Minister Michael McGrath with becoming Irelands next EU Commissioner, Mr Donohoe said: Michael will perform exceptionally in any number of roles in the future.

I think he's an exceptionally accomplished colleague and politician. But like me he's focused and what he's doing at the moment. Were just completing one budget, and we'll be doing another one.

Speaking to RTE Radio Ones Morning Ireland he said Minister Donohoe has "all of the qualities, credentials and experience necessary to fulfil that role.

Whether Mr Donohoe is interested in taking up this position, Mr McGrath said that's a matter for Minister Donohoe to come to a personal view on it.

"Isn't that a great thing that a member of the Irish government has been associated with the position of managing director of one of the most important global economic bodies? he said.

Mr McGrath mentioned Paschal Donohoe's desire to serve the full term as president of the Eurogroup and to contest the next election.

If the opportunity is there, it really is for him to decide as to whether he wishes to put himself forward.

"This will develop, we don't even yet know whether there will be a vacancy, whether Kristalina Georgieva will seek a second term, she may, she may not.

But he certainly would be a very strong and a very credible candidate.

I'm not saying for a moment that we want him to put himself forward but it is an incredible opportunity, if it becomes available.

That is an if, and I think he has all of the qualities to fulfil the role, Mr McGrath explained.

Meanwhile, corporation tax take in November was up almost a third on the same month last year, sharply reversing a recent slump in revenue generated from business profits.

The 6.3 billion collected was up 1.3 billion (27pc) on the receipts for November 2022.

The marked increase in corporation tax take comes after three successive months of drops in year-on-year revenue received by the exchequer from that tax head.

November is the key month for corporation tax receipts as it contains the returns from a number of large multinationals operating in Ireland.

Total corporation tax revenues in the year to date now stand at 22 billion  0.9 billion (4.2pc) ahead of last year.

This figure is broadly in line with expectations as set out in Budget 2024.

When other tax revenue was taken into account, the exchequer was left with a 5.4 billion euro surplus in November.

Commenting on the figures, Mr McGrath said: The end-November exchequer returns confirm that we are, broadly speaking, where we expected to be at this point in the year.

The growth in income tax and VAT receipts we have seen over the course of the year points to the fundamental resilience of our economy despite all the external challenges we are facing.

The stand-out feature of the November performance is, of course, corporation tax: after three months of decline, a large increase in receipts this month means this revenue stream is once again comfortably ahead of last year.

However, it is crucial to place this in context. While corporation tax is now four per cent ahead of 2022, it is clear that the era of persistent over-performances is coming to an end.

The volatility in this revenue stream highlights the importance of ensuring that permanent fiscal commitments are not made on the basis of temporary receipts.

Instead, the establishment of the two new long-term savings vehicles (the Future Ireland Fund and the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund) will use these windfall corporation tax(es) to help finance known future fiscal challenges, such as an ageing population, climate change and digital transition.
Mary Lou McDonald refuses to withdraw remark saying government didn't make contact with school for two weeks

Minister for Finance Michael McGrath described Sinn Feins claim the Government hadnt reached out to the Parnell Square school community for two weeks after the stabbings as fake news and not true.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has come under fire for claiming the Government had not contacted the school at the centre of a horror knife attack that sparked the Dublin riots.

During a debate on a motion of no confidence in Justice Minister Helen McEntee, Ms McDonald alleged it took nearly two weeks for government to reach out to the school community and questioned where the emergency response from the Coalition had been.

Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast, Mr McGrath said: "That's just not true, that's fake news, in response to Ms McDonalds comments.

You heard the response from a number of my colleagues who did speak in the Dail, including Minister Donohoe and Minister Madigan.

"I know that Minister Norma Foley was in contact with the schools pretty much immediately after the horrific events that impacted on some of the children attending there and the care workers.

"So it's just not true and to be corrected.

My colleagues who were in direct contact themselves with the school put that on the record and set the record straight.

So for the Leader of the opposition to say that it took nearly two weeks for the government to reach out to school is just not true.

We have to call that out because when you allow untruths to be spoken and go unchallenged, you just get a lot more of them, he said.
Declan Meenagh, wearing sunglasses, with other members of the Rare Diseases Ireland campaign group at Leinster House earlier this year. Photo: Gareth Chaney/Collins Photo

A new steering group to draw up a plan for the care of around 300,000 people in Ireland with rare diseases, including faster diagnosis, is being set up, chaired by Prof Cecily Kelleher.

The group, to be announced by Health Minister Stephen Donnelly, comes against a background of calls for a plan to support quicker diagnoses and better access to the most innovative treatments.

The last plan was in 2014 but one of the most serious issues faced by people with rare diseases is the time it takes to get an accurate diagnosis.

Around one in three patients can wait five years for a diagnosis which amounts to lost time on managing the condition and getting the best outcome.

The steering group will be made up of representatives of rare disease organisations, healthcare professionals and department of health staff.

The aim is to develop a plan which will set out the vision for rare diseases in the country and the actions that are needed for implementation.

The minister said he wants the plan ready as soon as possible and hopes to publish it by the middle of next year.

The group will look at a range of issues including gaps in service and how to integrate European Reference Networks into the national health services.

The will also recommend how a rare disease registry could be established and also how to promote rare disease awareness among healthcare professionals and the wider public.

It is estimated that 300,000 people in Ireland or 6pc of the population are affected by rare diseases, while there are as many as 8,000 described rare diseases.

Earlier this year the Get Rare Aware campaign spearheaded by Rare Diseases Ireland was launched in an effort to bring together politicians, medical experts and people living with rare diseases, to take action on the under-resourced genetic services at the Department of Clinical Genetics at Childrens Health Ireland (CHI) at Crumlin.

It emerged that Ireland has approximately half the number of people employed in core clinical genetic services compared with international peers, resulting in a two-year waiting list for the services, which is in stark contrast to the three-month waiting list for genetic services in Northern Ireland.

This is before they engage with the appropriate consultants for their diagnosed condition, which will also have a lengthy waiting list.
It can take 1,000 days from the point at which a new drug begins an assessment for cost effectiveness in Ireland to it becoming available to patient through HSE reimbursement, it was claimed today. Photo: Getty

It can take 1,000 days from the point at which a new drug begins an assessment for cost effectiveness in Ireland to it becoming available to patient through HSE reimbursement, it was claimed today.

The Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) representing the big drug firms made the claim at an Oireachtas briefing in the wake of the decision not to allocate any dedicated funding for new drugs next year.

The industry has been told by Health Minister Stephen Donnelly that savings generated could be directed at funding expensive new drugs if more low-cost options were used including generics and biosimilars.

The representative organisation claimed many new medicines are already available in many other European countries, including Northern Ireland highlighting the inadequacies of the current system for Irish patients.

It said that across all health spending new medicines expenditure is probably the most robustly assessed and budget impact medicines go through a strict evaluation process to determine if they will improve efficiency and standards of care before being made directly available to Irish patients.

Acknowledging the importance of imposing a strict funding assessment, the process does, however, require between 20 and 30 steps before a medicine is approved, taking on average over 1,000 days from the start of the National Centre for Pharmacoeconomics for assessment to reimbursement.

It said that an Ipsos poll conducted commissioned by IPHA which found that four in five Irish people believe that delays exist in public access to new medicines in Ireland.

Compared to our European counterparts, over half believe that access to new medicines is later in Ireland, it said.

Almost two-thirds believe access to new medicines for patients with rare diseases is too slow in Ireland, a rise of four points since 2022.

Six in 10 describe access to new medicines for cancer as too slow.

IPHA chief executive Oliver O Connell said: The availability of medicines in the provision of healthcare, is a crucial and integral part of ensuring universal health coverage which is essential for a functioning healthcare system.

"Medicines are key to healthy aging and, given the demographic trends of the Irish population, timely access to medical innovation needs to be a priority.

However, Irish patients continue to fall behind those in other European countries. As per the IPHA Agreement, Ireland is referenced against 14 basket countries, and we have identified medicines that are currently available in all or in most of these countries but not here for Irish patients.

"These are medicines which can improve the health outcomes of patients and make a significant difference to their quality of life.

To align Ireland with peer countries who adopt medicines faster, we need a continuous and a faster flow of new medicines which will raise the standards of care and health outcomes for Irish patients.
Record cocaine bust: Woman arrested in Dublin suspected of logistical role in 157m drugs haul

Woman (30s) had no known connections to criminality

Defence Forces participate in joint task force coordinated operation at sea

Robin Schiller Wed 6 Dec 2023 at 03:30

Detectives investigating the States largest ever drug seizure have arrested a woman in Dublin who is suspected of having a significant logistical role connected to the smuggling operation.
Guinness is among brands owned by Diageo (Damien Eagers/PA)

Alcohol group Diageo is reportedly looking to sell a number of beer brands including Smithwicks.

The company is seeking to divest its beer portfolio on margin concerns, except flagship brand Guinness, Axios reported on Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the world's largest spirits maker.

The company is looking to sell beer brands including Smithwick's, Kilkenny and Harp Lager, based in Ireland, and Tusker in Kenya, among others, Axios reported, adding that its beer brands were a margin drag on the rest of the business.

Heineken, along with Drinks group C&C, which owns the Bulmers brand, may be regarded as potential buyers.

A Diageo spokesperson said: "We do not comment on market speculation".

Beer sales of 3.36 billion (3.91 billion) accounted for just over 14pc of total sales at Diageo for the year ended June 30, whereas spirits sales contributed a mammoth 81pc.

The Johnnie Walker whisky maker in November warned of a drop in first-half operating profit growth on weakness in some regions.
A teenager has been arrested after more than 120,000 worth of cannabis was seized in Co Louth on Tuesday evening.

Gardai attached to the South Louth Divisional Drugs unit conducted a search operation under warrant at a residential property in Drogheda yesterday.

During the search, cannabis herb with a street value of over 120,000 (subject to analysis) was seized alongside drug paraphernalia.

In a follow up search, cannabis with an estimated street value of 2,000 was seized.

A male in his late teens was arrested at the scene and is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at a Garda station in the South Louth District.

The suspected drugs will now be sent to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) for analysis.

Investigations are ongoing.
Staggering rise in numbers working from home is changing how we live

The car is still the most popular mode of transport for Irish workers. Photo: Getty

Meath residents face Irelands longest average commute to get to work, according to a Central Statistics Office study published yesterday.

They spend an average of 35 minutes getting to their places of work. This compares with a 23-minute journey for the average employee in Galway city, who enjoys the shortest average commute.

While Meaths average journey time is the highest, it is closely followed by the average 34-minute travel of workers from Kildare, Wicklow and Fingal.

Meath also has the highest proportion of workers who endure commutes of over an hour. More than one in four of all commuters from Laytown, Bettystown, Mornington and Donacarney in Meath, from Kinnegad in Westmeath and from Skerries in Fingal take an hour or more to travel to work.

A new analysis of the latest census data also reveals that the car is still the most popular mode of transport for workers and school-goers.

Car travel makes up 63pc of all work journeys, though this is a slight fall from 66pc in 2016. More than 70pc of workers in Galway and Roscommon drive to work, but fewer than 30pc in Dublin city take the car.

The average travel time to work has continued to rise, from 26.6 minutes in 2011 to 29.1 minutes last year.

But more workers than ever are escaping these longer travelling times.

There has been a dramatic increase in the number of people working mainly from home. The number of those working from home for most of the week has soared by a staggering 173pc since the last census.

A total of 259,467 people were mainly working from home last year, which was up from 94,955 in 2016.

The new official analysis of employment, occupations and commuting, using figures based on the census, was published yesterday. It shows nearly one in three people were working from home at least one day a week in April last year.

This equals 747,961 people  or 32pc of all workers.

The Dun Laoghaire Rathdown area in Dublin has the highest proportion (57pc) of people working from home for at least one day a week. Home working is however least prevalent in Monaghan and Longford, at 21pc of workers.

The report reveals that the countrys entire workforce now stands at 2.3m, which is an increase of 16pc since 2016. Employment has grown in every county.

Tom Curran, head of well-being with Lockton People Solutions, described the increase in home workers as the biggest change to hit the world of work in decades, perhaps in centuries.

There has been a somewhat staggering 173pc increase in the number of people who recorded that they worked mainly from home since the last census. Its risen from 94,955 workers in 2016 to 259,467 in 2022, he said.

He said the report shows just how important working from home has become to many people within a short timeframe.

Mr Curran said working from home can be a highly useful option when it comes to keeping women in the workplace.

More needs to be done to encourage and facilitate female participation in the labour force, he said. Working from home allows people to organise their work around their life and work when theyre at their most productive.

This in turn should allow people to work alongside the challenges which life throws their way, to work for longer, and to pursue multiple careers if they wish.

It will also open up opportunities for people who may have struggled to participate in the workforce before.

The survey shows nearly a quarter of women work part-time compared with 7pc of men. A total of 14pc of all workers work part-time.

The unemployment rate was 8pc in April last year, down from 13pc in the 2016 census and from 19pc in the 2011 census. The counties with the highest unemployment rates were Louth, Longford and Donegal, all at 11pc.

Longford had the largest growth in employment at 30pc, followed by Carlow and Meath, while Kerry had the lowest.

The greatest growth in workers was in health services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, blood banks, vaccine clinics and ambulance services.

Employment fell by 8,000 in farming and by 6,500 in food wholesale services.

Paramedics had the longest working day of all occupations, followed closely by prison officers and gardai. A paramedics working day lasts an average of 11.5 hours.
From whale-watching to cooking stew in volcanic soil, these spectacular Atlantic islands are just two and a half hours from Lisbon and offer a holiday with a difference

People like the humpback because it breaches; it jumps out of the water.

Tour guide Eduardo Elias is scanning the waters from our yellow rib off Vila Franca do Campo Islet in the Azores. Due to the Azores location  nestled in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean  it receives currents rich in nutrients, he explains.

We have the ideal position to function as a pitstop or an oasis for all the species crossing the Atlantic.

The Azores has gone from a history of whale hunting to whale-watching over the last 30 years, and its untapped tourism has made it a hidden gem for those seeking an adventure.

Set further north than the Canary Islands, about a 2.5-hour flight from Lisbon, this is a remote and often overlooked archipelago of nine islands. A trip feels like an adventure of the elements  water, earth, air and fire  and, as Eduardo puts it, its like looking into an open aquarium.

The largest of the islands, Sao Miguel  often nicknamed The Green Island  offers a vivid landscape of greenery, intertwined with geothermal activity in the form of steaming fumaroles, thermal pools and natural mineral springs.

Sete Cidades Lake

Its true that you will experience all four seasons in a day, from abundant rain to beaming sunshine, but its subtropical climate allows greenery to flourish. And the islands are famous for world-class whale-watching, hiking, sailing and diving without the spoils of mass tourism.

Our whale-watching trip with Terra Azul (azoreswhalewatch.com) began with a boat trip to Vila Franca do Campo.

On the yellow rib, hydrophone systems are available to hear any nearby whales under the water, while lookouts along the coast keep an eye on sightings and pass the information along to the boats.

The captain sped through the choppy waters as information of possible sightings was fed through on walkie talkies from the lookouts.

Pods of dolphins swam along with the boat, jumping out of the water with curiosity. Unfortunately, we saw no whales on our trip in mid-October. However, a boat the day before saw three sightings.

A third of the worlds whale species have been spotted in the Azores. The best time of the year to go whale-watching here is spring  from April to June  during mating season when different species will cross the Atlantic.

At this time, the region attracts baleen whales, fin whales and blue whales. Teeth whales and false orcas arrive in summer and will stay until the beginning of winter, while the sardine whale will sometimes stay the whole season.

Ponta Delgada

The last Azorian whale hunt took place in 1987.

We were very lucky because at the time, nobody believed in the business, says Eduardo of the establishment of a whale-watching industry in the Azores in 1991.

Since then, it has become one of the worlds most popular locations to whale-watch, with strict rules in place to protect the animals. Sustainability is a focus too  the Azores was the first archipelago in the world to be named as a Sustainable Tourism Destination, under the EarthCheck Sustainable Destination programme.

Of course, theres a lot more to the archipelago than the surrounding waters.

On day two, we travelled to the thermal hot spot of Furnas to take in Sao Miguel's geothermal activity. The striking volcanic landscape is covered in lush green vegetation, and sometimes described as the Hawaii of Europe.

We followed the islands north road, stopping at a local tea plantation and the Pico do Ferro lookout.

A tea plantation in the Azores

The Furnas Valley in the centre of Sao Miguel is an oasis of green  vibrant scenery with two active volcanic sites and boiling caldeiras. Located within the valley is Terra Nostra Park, which offers a large iron-rich thermal pool reaching 40 degrees.

There are lots of activities to spend a day around Furnas Lake, including hiking, swimming, kayaking and paddle-boarding.

However, if you want to eat like a real local, try a cooking class where you learn to make a steaming hot cozido stew, cooked in the volcanic soil alongside the caldeiras.

We met local chef, Henrique Mouro, from the Art of Tasting Portugal (theartoftastingportugal.com) and cooked our own traditional stew with a mix of traditional Portuguese meats and vegetables.

The ingredients are put in a large pot, covered in a white blanket and slowly lowered into a hole in the calderia, where it stews in the volcanic soil for eight hours.

While your dinner stews, my tip is to take a tour around Furnal Lake, the crown jewel of the Sao Miguell.

Cooking a traditional cozido stew

The area is actually a dormant volcanic crater, which last erupted in 1630. The geothermal activity is all around with bubbling thermal pools, mineral springs and steaming fumaroles  albeit there is a strong smell of sulphur.

These remote islands, with their charming simplicity and natural wonders, etched a lasting impression for me.

Whether exploring the volcanic craters or savouring local delicacies, the warmth of the Azorean hospitality has made memories that linger long after my departure.

Get there

TAP Air Portugal offers year-round flights to the Azores, via Lisbon. Flights depart Lisbon three times daily to Sao Miguel and twice-daily to Terceira. From Dublin, return fares start from around 197 in economy and 522 in business class. flytap.com

The Lince Azores in Ponta Delgada is a four-star hotel with views over the ocean and the southern part of the island.

Where to stay

Amy stayed at The Lince Azores in Ponta Delgada. The four-star hotel has 154 rooms with views over the ocean and over the southern part of the island, including two suites and 24 interconnecting rooms.

In Lisbon, Amy stayed at Vila Gale Collection Palacio Dos Arcos. The five-star hotel is a refurbished 15th-century palace. The hotel contains 76 rooms, decorated after famous poets and overlooks the Lisbon coast.

This chain also has a great hotel in Ponta Delgada called Vila Gale Collection Sao Miguel.

Amy was a guest of TAP Air Portugal and Visit Azores.

For more information, see visitazores.com
Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is fighting two wars. He is at the head of a wartime cabinet, leading the operation against the militant group Hamas after its October 7 rampage through southern Israel saw the bloodiest day for Jews since the Holocaust.
Thomas MacNamara said he hit rock bottom when he was forced to sleep in his car until he turned to the Good Shepherd homeless centre in Kilkenny for help

For many Christmas is a time to return home and spend time with loved ones and reflect on the year that has just passed.

But for many individuals and families this will not be possible as they face a Christmas without a home to go to.

The latest homelessness figures released showed that in September 2023, 12,827 people were accessing emergency accommodation. Even more startling was the news that almost 4,000 children in Ireland had nowhere to call home in September.

A Kilkenny man who was once a number among those statistics will spend his first Christmas in six years with a key in his hand for his very own home.

Thomas MacNamara is originally from Dublin but now lives in Kilkenny. He owned his own business and the prospect of homelessness was never something that had reason to cross his mind.

Six years ago Thomas experienced a sudden downturn in his life which caused him to lose the gym he owned in Kilkenny and his relationship.

As a result, Thomas found himself sleeping is his car as he had nowhere to go.

"I ended up sleeping in my car before I was directed towards the Good Shepherd Homeless Centre in Kilkenny, explained Thomas.

"The realisation of failure really hit home for me when I standing on the steps getting ready to ring the doorbell of the homeless centre at the Good Shepard, its an experience I dont want anyone to have.

"You truly realise you have hit rock bottom when you are standing there about to ring the doorbell because you know in that moment you cant do anything to provide for yourself.

"By ringing that doorbell you are asking for someone elses help to do the things that most adults would consider as being quite simple, to provide themselves with food and shelter. It was not something I considered as unattainable at any other point in my life. I had always worked and provided for myself but just at that point I was after losing everything. I had nothing.

It was that sense of failure that Thomas spoke about that prevented him like so many before him to reach out for help sooner.

That feeling of failure was unavoidable for me. Weve all made mistakes in our lives. But when youre freezing cold in your car at three oclock in the morning you know you have hit rock bottom. Definitely everything was gone at that stage and I had no choice but to accept the situation I had found myself in.

Little did Thomas know that his decision to stand on the steps of The Good Shepherd Centre and ring the doorbell was the start of his journey to get his life back.

Thomas has rebuilt his life. He went back to education and got a job at a supermarket outside Kilkenny to support himself through college. He has now graduated with an honours degree in social care and recently got the keys to his forever home.

"I have young kids but as I am separated with their mother I didnt have them with me at the time. But it gave me motivation to get back on my feet.

"I got my home for life in October. Im actually sitting on the sofa in my new home. I even did some shopping for silly things like mirrors and rugs and stuff like that for my house. Its six years since I was first homeless and it finally feels like it has ended.

"Even though I went to college and I got an honours degree and I now have a really good job the whole homelessness thing was there in the background. I knew the lease for the RAS house I was in was coming to an end and I was conscious that the housing market was not in a good place. Because of all of this I was a little scared even though I had more than most people would have in that situation, like I still had the support of The Good Shepherd Centre.

"Although I knew I had more knowledge about how to avoid becoming homeless again, it was still a scary time for me up until October and the moment I got the got the keys to my house and walked in and realised that this was my house for life.

"Its been quite overwhelming the whole thing, its taken me a couple of weeks for me to acknowledge that I was finally at the end of the road and where I once was and where I am now are two completely different places.

Thomas is now looking forward to a promising and stable future and is actively contributing to combating the homeless crisis.

There is one clear theme throughout Thomas story that also appears in so many other peoples stories that have experienced homelessness at some point in their lives. That theme is shame.

The Good Shepherd Centre in Kilkenny who also support people in Carlow, Laois and Tipperary, say this feeling of shame is rooted in the issue of stigma surrounding homelessness and the common misconception that only a certain type of person can find themselves homeless.

Thomas proves that anyone can find themselves in this situation as he once was successful businessman. A combination of factors including the lack of suitable housing stock in the rental market created the perfect storm, which led Thomas to the steps of The Good Shepherd Centre six years ago.

People talk about stigmatisation but I think blame is even more distinct. I still think people in our local communities and Irish society as a whole blame someone for becoming homeless, explained CEO of The Good Shepherd Centre in Kilkenny Noel Sherry.

"25% of our current service users of homeless services are working. You may ask why are they there then? But they are there because there are no private rental accommodation available for them to rent. Now I dont mean that its too expensive to rent. I mean that its not available to rent.

"It has already become too expensive to rent and now the rental stock is just not there. We have families that we have housed that were paying 50% of their income on rent because the lack of availability keeps driving up rent prices. This trend is set to continue as the availability of private rental accommodation keeps decreasing.

"There is still a level of private rental accommodation in Dublin and in other big urban centres, but in many local areas around the country, the private rental sector has just completely collapsed.

While the issue of homelessness and the housing crisis may seem like a hopeless one, The Good Shepherd Centre want to change this narrative and offer people impacted by homelessness some hope by reducing the stigmatisation that surrounds it.

"I think what is lost on people is that this is causing human turmoil and the reality is that people are not to blame for being homeless and yet people continue to be stigmatised by it. Theres a genuine lack of understanding of the actual experience and impact of homelessness.

"One of the things that enforces stigmatisation is negative messaging. What we want to do is put out an upbeat image and give people hope hence our new campaign Hope is a Home: The 12 Days of Christmas.

Were not necessarily asking for money. Were asking people to reconsider what they think about homelessness and to engage their own children with the issue of homelessness by possibly discussing it at home. This will help them have a clear understanding of what its like for children like them who find themselves homeless.

"If in this 12 day campaign we were to encourage people to spend a little bit of time reconsidering their understanding of homelessness and being a little bit more open and objective, I think that would be a hugely successful campaign.

"People dont have money at the minute so we're not asking people for much at all, except to help us raise awareness of homelessness.
A man who raped a woman he'd been chatting with online before arranging to meet for coffee has been imprisoned for five years.

Daniel Maymay (31), of Thornbury, Kilmacrennan Road, Letterkenny, Co Donegal, appeared before Mr Justice Paul Burns in the Central Criminal Court in Dublin on Monday after being found guilty of one count of rape on January 28, 2019.
I started crying  everything was gone  manager tells of shock at Bus Bar blaze

The 33 Cafe in Skerries is back open while repairs from the major fire continue

Damage to the front of the building following the fire on November 18

Managers Marina Semjonova and Amanda Derham outside the 33 Cafe in Skerries which has reopened following a major fire

Managers of a cafe in north county Dublin which was gutted by a fire last month, have expressed their gratitude for the communitys support in reopening.

A significant fire occurred at the business in Skerries, which includes the historic Bus Bar pub, Little Richards Wood Fire Pizza and the 33 Cafe, on November 18.

The incident caused the collapse of part of the buildings roof and damaged the front bar entrance. Dublin Fire Brigade, with the assistance of five fire engines and a turntable ladder, managed to prevent any further damage.

While repairs continue, the 33 Cafe managed to reopen last Saturday, operating out of a container in front of the premises with a limited menu.

Fire Brigade battle blaze in historic Dublin pub

Managers Marina Semjonova and Amanda Derham, spoke to the Irish Independent about the moment they found out about the fire.

I started crying. My friend rang me because I live close to the cafe and asked if everything was okay. I had no idea about the fire, even though Id just left at noon that day, Ms Derham said.

She told me the Bus Bar was on fire. I didnt believe her until I saw the videos with flames coming out of the windows already. It took quite a while for it to go out.

Ms Semjonova, who has been away on maternity leave, has been a huge part of the cafe since it opened in 2019.

She came down when she heard the news and stood with the owner of the premises, Morgan Keane, bawling her eyes out.

Damage to the front of the building following the fire on November 18

Everything was gone; it was like we were starting from day one, as if we were reopening again, Ms Semjonova said. I even asked about the Christmas decorations we had up there, but its all destroyed.

The 33 Cafe emphasised that they could not have reopened without the amazing community support theyve witnessed.

Ms Derham said they have a huge number of regulars at the cafe who have been trying to support them in any way they can.

We know their dogs, their grannies, their kids birthdays, you name it. If they got a new car, we see it all, she said.

I have the cafes Instagram on my phone, and the messages did not stop; it was just ping, ping, ping. Everybody has been so supportive. Weve had people texting us asking if they can buy vouchers in support.

Ms Semjonova also said shes had groups of people on the street asking how they can help.

The community here, we couldnt do without them. We have guys coming together dropping other jobs to come help us get repairs done. People saying, look, I have a van; I can help, she said.

The 33 Cafe in Skerries is back open while repairs from the major fire continue

The three businesses employ 40 people in total, and now roughly 30 of them are without a job in the lead up to Christmas

Im so happy we could get the girls back working in the cafe, but Im feeling for the staff in Little Richards and the Bus Bar, Ms Derham said.

Little Richards Wood Fire Pizza plans to open back up today, offering pizza for collection and takeaway only, with a limited menu and reduced prices. The courtyard area of the business will hopefully be back up and running the week before Christmas.

They also plan to have a special day on the Saturday before Christmas where they will bring Santa down for people in the community who will bring gift bags for all the Children.
Anyone experiencing anti-social behaviour is being urged to contact gardai

Anti-social behaviour in Dublin communities is being driven by bullies mobilising through social media to organise gatherings.

It has been claimed that gangs of young people in Inchicore and Drimnagh are harassing elderly and vulnerable people by recklessly riding bikes, motorbikes and escooters.

One local resident, who is a wheelchair user, complained of a gang of teenage delinquents causing havoc while racing motorbikes at high speed in the area.

He claims theyve called him names such as pervert and rapist, and has reported these incidents to local gardai.

He also told of two elderly women in the area who are afraid to go to the shops to get milk and bread and he wants something done before a pensioner or disabled person gets killed or badly hurt.

Politicians have said that no one should feel intimidated in Drimnagh and the issue requires a multi-agency response.

People Before Profit TD Brid Smith said she is aware of incidents of anti-social behaviour, but doesnt believe the perpetrators are all from Drimnagh or Inchicore, as they use social media to organise gatherings.

The Dublin South-Central representative said scooters and motorised bikes require a political response, and more funding is needed in youth projects.

The area attracts a lot of young people from outside via the Luas line. They often mobilise through social media, she said.

They are emboldened when they are in gangs, and it only takes one or two to bully and intimidate vulnerable people and/or people of colour.

The reckless driving of scooters and motorised bikes is a universal problem with little or no regulation around the sale or purchase of these machines  something that requires a political response.

Gangs of young people harassing others is very intimidating for anyone living in the community and it does require a response across all agencies.

But I think we have to consider the roots of the problems and listen to youth workers and family resource workers for finding a solution.

People Before Profit TD Brid Smith said gangs of youths are mobilising through social media

Many of them will tell you that cuts to a number of projects over the decades have been very harmful to the wider community.

Youth workers and family resource workers need to be properly resourced to be able to make meaningful interventions with young people in our communities who are out of order.

As well as highlighting the anti-social behaviour, we also need to highlight the anti-social cuts to local services and seek proper funding and resourcing in areas that are dealing with high levels of inequality, she added.

Meanwhile, councillor Daithi Doolan, a local Drimnagh resident, said while more work is needed with gardai and youth services, theres a lot of positive work going on.

Drimnagh and Inchicore are great communities. There is a lot of positive work going on with our young people, he said.

No one should feel intimidated in our area. Young, old and vulnerable should feel free to live, work and visit here. We need to work with the gardai and youth services to make our communities safe and welcoming for everyone.

It is essential that we have gardai working with the community. This means taking gardai from behind the desks and putting them back in the community where they belong.

If anyone sees people being intimidated, then call the gardai. It is essential that there is a prompt and positive response to these threats, he added.

People Before Profit councillor, Hazel De Nortuin, said the issue of escooters needs to be looked at on a wider scale.

Theres been an increase in concern around the use of escooters and young people congregating in the Drimnagh area over the past few years, she said.

With Inchicore, there were concerns around young people using the Luas to travel between Bluebell, Inchicore and Drimnagh because of the flow of access.

According to the Department of Justice, the Government is committed to building stronger, safer communities, including in Inchicore and Drimnagh, and is determined to tackle anti-social behaviour and the causes of it.

A number of priority actions are contained in the Programme for Government and Justice Plan 2023 to reduce anti-social behaviour and help people to feel safe in their local communities. These include:

setting up of expert forum on anti-social behaviour;

expanding youth diversion to the 1824-year-old age group;

implementing the Youth Justice Strategy 2021 - 2017;

criminalising adults who groom children into criminality;

delivering a programme to tackle the misuse of scramblers and similar vehicles.

The Anti-Social Behaviour Forum, which is chaired by Junior Minister [James] Browne, is developing measures which will address the factors which give rise to ASB and its impact on community morale and quality of life.

Three subgroups have been established to consider knife crime, the misuse of scramblers and quad bikes, and responses to Anti-Social Behaviour impacts on housing complexes managed by Approved Housing Bodies.

The scrambler sub-group developed a new initiative to support local projects to encourage young people in the legal and safe use of motorbikes.

190,000 was allocated to assist projects in 2022, with a further 190,000 allocated for 2023.

Separately, the Minister for Transport, has introduced the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, which provides enhanced powers for An Garda Siochana to seize these types of vehicles if used in anti-social behaviour and related criminality.
Nine Crows in Temple Bar opened late this morning due to their smashed window

Gardai are investigating an incident of criminal damage at a vintage store in Temple Bar last night.

The incident happened at Nine Crows on Temple Lane South at 3.55am. The store posted a picture online of a shattered window on their front door today.

We will be late opening this morning, sorry for any inconvenience and we will let you know later of our opening hours once our door is fixed, Nine Crows said.

Nine Crows opened their doors as normal later in the day, writing on social media that they were very grateful to be back as normal.

A garda spokesman confirmed they are investigating an incident of criminal damage that occurred at a commercial premises on Temple Lane South, Dublin 2 in the early hours of Wednesday, December 6.

Gardai received a report of an attempted burglary at approximately 3.55am and attended the scene. No entry was gained, and no property was reported as taken. Investigations are ongoing.

Nine Crows Temple Bar has been contacted for comment.
After what happened in the city, we need some Christmas cheer, says Lord Mayor

The Lord Mayor of Dublin said the city needs some Christmas cheer as he welcomed the return of the live animal crib to the Mansion House.

Lord Mayor Daithi de Roiste and Tim Cullinan, President of the Irish Farmers Association, officially launched this years crib which was controversially removed last year.

The crib was blessed by Rev Paul Arbuthnot, St Annes Church, Dawson Street and Fr Enda Cunningham, St Andrews Church, Westland Row.

When I was elected Lord Mayor on June 26, by far the most asked question Ive had is, Are you bringing back the crib? The second one is, Are you the president? and the third is, Are you a rapper?

To bring Christmas cheer to the city after the events of two weeks ago, we need it.

Finn Berney, Maya McFall Silva and Drew O Donnell at the blessing of the live animal crib at the Mansion House. Pic: Damien Eagers

Dublin is a fantastic community of people with a huge spirit. We identify as Dubliners, coming together and supporting our city during times like this is so important.

This is open for the people of Dublin to come and enjoy over the next number of weeks. For the first time ever, weve a wheelchair accessible sleigh.

If anyone needs a quiet space, we have a sensory room. Well have Christmas tunes playing, lots of choirs are lined up for the next couple of weeks.

We were delighted when we reached out to the IFA that they wanted to come back. Tradition is such an important aspect of Christmas

For many Dubliners, including myself, the Mansion House live animal crib was always a huge part of that. Im delighted its back again this year. I know that the farmers always take great care of the animals, he added.

IFA President Tim Cullinan explained that the live crib has been a wonderful tradition in the run-up to Christmas for the people of Dublin, and visitors to the capital.

Its a gift from the farmers of Ireland that creates a traditional nativity scene on the forecourt of the Mansion House, he said.

Lord Mayor Daithi de Roiste, Damian McDonald, Director General of the IFA, and farmer Fionn Sherlock, from Enniskerry, at the live animal crib at the Mansion House. Pic: Damien Eagers

This has been a tradition that started back in the nineties. Its to give people who mightnt have the opportunity to get up and close with farm animals the chance to see them here.

Mary Barr, from Lucan, was there to support the Lucan Gospel Choir at the launch of the crib.

I know the Gospel Choir. Were heading to the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre on Saturday. Were in Powerscourt tomorrow evening, its all for charity, she said.

Its good for the soul, the mayhem and the craic as well is great. Theyre a great bunch of people.

They look forward to Christmas every year, they do mass in our local church too maybe once a month. Kids love them, especially the song This Little Light of Mine, she added.

The Live Animal Crib is a joint initiative between Dublin City Council and the Irish Farmers Association and is supported by the DSPCA.

The crib will be open to the public from 11am to 5pm daily until Saturday, December 23, and Christmas Eve from 11am to 1pm.
The iconic Richardsons pub, in Galway, is set to reopen in early 2024 with a new name and under new ownership.

Richardson's pub, located at No 1 Eyre Square, announced closure in July 2023 as the Richardson family  who owned the business for 70 years - decided to retire.

After the 19-century-pub landed on the market, the premises was purchased by the OConnor family from Rathgar, in Dublin. The family is well-known for running the pub OConnors of Mount Street in Dublin city.

The new owners are now seeking planning permission to make a number of changes, including replacing the existing shop front and the signage as the application reveals the premises will change the name to Sin a bhfuil.

Changes also include the relocation of the front door, and the replacement of windows and doors.

The application reads the works would include the replacement of the existing shop front with new shop front including associated signage to front facade and gable end of No.1 Eyre Square. Relocation of entrance door on front facade of No. 1 Eyre Square, retain existing shop front with new associated signage to No. 2 Prospect Hill; alteration to existing entrance door from No.2 Prospect Hill; the removal of existing stone cladding and replaced with a painted nap render finish to front facade and gable end of No. 1 Eyre Square; replace existing windows and doors with new timber windows and doors to ground floor, first floor, second floor and third floor levels of No. 1 Eyre Square and to ground floor, first floor and second floor levels of No. 2 Prospect Hill; and all associated site works.

Sin a bhfuil is expected to open early next year and Galway City Council is set to make a decision by January 28.
A large protest took place outside University Hospital Galway against the decision made by the HSE to freeze the recruitment of new clerical and administrative staff.

Forsa Trade Union have organised a number of protests across the country following the HSEs imposition of a moratorium on recruitment in clerical and administrative grades.

In Galway city, the protest took place on Wednesday December 6, from 12.45pm to 1.45pm, outside University Hospital Galway, and did not affect services.

Despite the heavy rain, many gathered outside the hospital with flags and posters, chanting end the freeze.

Padraig Mulligan, Assistant General Secretary at Forsa Trade Union in the West, explained that HSE has recently halted all recruitments, but there are hundreds of vacancies.

The reason were here is because theres a moratorium, which means that theres a block in filling posts within the hospital group.

My members get people access to the service. And because theyre not filling those posts, people cant get access to the service, and this in the middle of winter, which is the worst possible time to have this cuts.

At this time of year, the health services need to be fully staffed, not understaffed. The HSE must recruit and fill vital positions now, before services are irreversibly affected.

He concluded: These lunchtime protests are the next step in our campaign of industrial action, providing an opportunity for health workers to voice their opposition to the continuing recruitment freeze, while minimising the effect on service delivery or service users.

Forsa organiser in the Western region Helen Cousins highlighted the importance of the clerical and admin staff amid concerns for the rest of the winter season.

She said: The first person you meet when you come in the door is the clerical and admin person, so if the hospital is understaffed it reflects on the patients. Nurses are important, doctors are important, but the first person you see will be the clerical and admin person, so we need them, we cant have the place understaffed, and giving the time of the year, the flu, this is a very busy period, so understaffing will totally affect anyone that utilizes the hospital.

Chairperson of Forsa Galway branch Corinne Phelan added that the situation has forced some workers to do the job of two people.

She said: The health service is already in crisis, with being short-staffed, this freeze is putting more pressure on people. Theres people in the clerical and admin staff that are doing the job of two, three people, because vital positions have not been filled and with the freeze they will never be filled.

There are people out there who accepted the jobs and now the freeze unrecruited them, theyre not getting that new job that they went for. The clerical and admin staff are behind the scenes in every hospital. Patients dont get admitted to bed, they dont get admitted into AE without the clerical and admin staff.
Soccer

Kerry FC manager and players excited to get new season going with visit of Avondale United

It hardly seems like 12 weeks since Kerry FC were last seen in action, but that is exactly the length of time the League of Irelands newest club will have been in winter hibernation when they emerge on Friday evening for a Munster Senior Cup game 
A file is to be prepared for the DPP following the release of a man in his 60's who was arrested this week as part of the ongoing investigation into the graveyard killing of a Killarney man.

Gardai have confirmed that as part of their ongoing investigation into the fatal assault in Rathass Cemetery, Tralee, Kerry on Wednesday, October 5 2022, they arrested a man on Wednesday, December 6. He was detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at a Garda Station in Kerry and has now been released without charge.

He was the 10th person to be arrested in relation to Mr Dooleys death.

Thomas Tom Dooley (43) from Hazelwood Drive, Killarney, died after he was attacked by a group of men at Rath Cemetery in Tralee on October 5, 2022 shortly after he; his wife and four of his seven children had attended the funeral of a close family friend.

Mr Dooleys wife Siobhan also suffered serious injuries in the course of the attack.

Tom Dooley was treated at the scene in the graveyard by paramedics before being rushed by ambulance the short distance to University Hospital Kerry where he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.

Three people have been charged with the murder of Mr Dooley.

Gardai are continuing to investigate the incident.
Trevor Fennelly was hospitalised for a month when a four wheel drive collided with his motorbike

A GoFundMe page has been set up for Kilkenny man Trevor Fennelly to help him on his road to recovery after he almost died in a motorbike crash in Australia.

Trevor is originally from Bennettsbridge in County Kilkenny, but has been living in the Gold Coast for about eight years.

On October 28, Trevor was involved in a life threatening motorbike crash.

According to the police in Australia, Trevor was travelling on his motorbike when he was struck by a four wheel drive. This left Trevor seriously hurt and he was rushed to hospital.

At the hospital they discovered Trevor was bleeding internally from his liver, intestines, bowel, spleen and had a bruised heart. He had to receive 18 blood transfusions. The initial surgery to stop the internal bleeding almost proved too much, as Trevor had to be resuscitated twice.

After two surgeries to stop the initial internal bleeding, the focus was put on repairing Trevor's right broken arm and leg as he had snapped his femur and shattered his elbow.

Trevor was in a coma for the first four days and received a total of six surgeries over his month long stay in hospital.

Thankfully Trevor is now home recovering but is facing huge financial costs with medical bills, household utilities and day to day living expenses.

One of Trevors friend, Sharon Davis set up the Go Fund Me to help Trevor with the large costs.

"He can't fly home now to be with his family, may not be able for some time. He will be out of work for a long time and we want to raise funds to help him get through these next few months.

"Any small amount will help. Even if we could raise enough to get him a ticket home to Ireland next year when he's cleared to fly again that would be amazing. He's lucky to still be with us and we're lucky to have him. Lets show him some support.
Mayor of Sligo, Declan Bree says the far right threat had not been taken seriously enough

Shops were looted and buses set on fire on a night of violence in Dublin on November 23rd.

The Mayor of Sligo, Councillor Declan Bree has slammed the government for its failure to challenge the activities of far right extremists. He brought a motion before last Mondays monthly meeting of the County Council which read:

Horrified by the brutal and senseless attack on children and their carer outside Gaelscoil Cholaiste Mhuire, Parnell Square, Dublin on November 23, and appalled by the subsequent violence and looting fuelled by the far right in pursuit of a racist agenda; this council expresses its concern with the unacceptable and unprecedented collapse in policing on the night, and further expresses its deep concern with the failure of government to challenge the activities of the far right extremists who are orchestrators of hate, constantly ratcheting up peoples fears and deliberately scapegoating minorities.

Cllr Bree told the meeting that the brutal and senseless attack on school children and their carer shocked the people of this country.

I know the thoughts and prayers of people nationwide are with the five-year-old girl and the school worker who remain in a critical condition in hospital.

Following the attack elements of the far right used social media to call on their supporters to congregate in Dublin city centre at 7pm and the subsequent violence and looting, represented the worst day of carnage on the streets of Dublin for a generation.

Get Them Out was their racist slogan as a mob fuelled by hate wreaked havoc on the streets of Dublin.

They not only targeted migrants, they intimidated retail workers, fire-fighters, transport workers and paramedics.

They burned buses, garda cars and looted shops.

But I feel it is important to say that we pay tribute to the gardai who despite the danger, risked life and limb so as to protect and keep people safe.

While the mainstream media initially expressed shock at the outbreak of violence it was obvious to many people that there has been on-going failure of policing in regard to dealing with far-right racial elements.

There have been more than enough warning signs for the government but it is clear that these signs were not taken seriously, he said.

He added that over the past year there had been kid glove treatment of violent anti-migrant protestors in Dublins East Wall and Sandwich Street and others.

In September TDs, Senators and Oireachtas staff were prevented from driving into Leinster House by a mob and we actually saw TDs being assaulted.

And while the far right may not be strong in this country it has the capacity to grow and it certainly has the capacity to whip up racial hatred.

Today in Ireland despite there being full employment, ordinary workers and members of our community are suffering due to a housing and healthcare crisis and a big increase in the cost of living.

However, these multiple crises have been caused by political decisions made by government and we cannot allow elements of the far-right top re-direct the legitimate anger people feel over housing and the cost of living on to migrants and those fleeing war and prosecution.

And it is unfortunate that on occasions a small minority of elected representatives in this country appear to have no difficulty in using the same divisive language of the far-right.

Constant references to our own people or to the indigenous population only help to sow the seeds of division.

Such comments must be very unsettling for those who have come from other countries to live and work here.

We should remember that today migrants make up one fifth of the workforce.

They work in our hospitals, our clinics, our takeaways, our hotels etc, and they contribute in so many other ways.

Our country and our economy could not function without them.

And we should remember that regardless of colour or creed we all share the blood of a common humanity.

The violence in Dublin on November 23 is but an example of what can happen when the far right are not faced up to.

And it is now clearly acknowledged that there were significant failures of policing and failures of intelligence that led to control being lost in Dublin city centre, said Cllr Bree.

Cllr Gino OBoyle in support of the motion said the far right agitators had whipped up those riots and they made horrific attacks for their own gain.

There were crises in this country but the far right were misdirecting peoples anger away from the real problem which was bad government, vulture funds and the super rich.

These far right agitators were spreading racist poison and hate against immigrants.

They were trying to create a culture of fear and everyoneneeded to stand up against it, he said.

And we have to be honest about the gardai as we had seen growing lawlessness all over the country in recent times.

There is a lack of gardai on the streets of Sligo a lack of gardai on the streets of Dublin and in Galway etc.

We had a growing lawless culture and unless it was tackled it would only get worse, he said.

Cllr Thomas Walsh said he was delighted that Cllr Bree had used words like the mob because what happened in Dublin was not acceptable.

He added that very often in this country the government were blamed for every single thing.

The government was not responsible for what happened last week, he said.

We now know that one social media company was contacted and did not address the issues which Cllr Bree has failed to outline.

This company continues to stir the far right and continued to promote what was happening in Dublin that night.

But can I say also that the far left are not without responsibility here.

Its the far left that have continuously rejected An Garda Siochana using force over many decades and through many protests like Jobstown when Minister Joan Burton was attacked as she left an event.

So I dont accept that the government are to blame for every single issue in this country.

But it is government who have to pick up the pieces and make hard decisions.

So I think everybody has a responsibility here for what happened with the mob that tore our capital city apart, said Cllr Healy.

Cllr Arthur Gibbons said nobody could call what happened with the loony right a protest.

The language that was used was terrible and he disagreed with Cllr Walshs point about Jobstown.

It was a 16-year-old that sat in front of the Ministers car and ten policemen were sent to deal with the matter.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested but there was no violence and no looting and no venom or racist remarks.

He said people should be very careful about the language they used in these situations.

But they should not be tolerating vicious thugs on the streets of Dublin, said Cllr Gibbons.

And, if the government does not want to take responsibility we all should make sure that this does not happen again.

If every Irish person in the world was taken and sent home they would not fit into this country.

That is the reality and the Irish travelled the world and worked and the immigrants who come to Ireland also work as can be proved by the statistics. Ireland should live up to the cead mile failte.

Cllr Gibbons said he was proud to be Irish but the farright did not represent him, they did not speak for him.

Immigrants coming into this country were part of this country and they will build this country. pay their taxes and be part of this country.

Cllr Donal Gilroy said he did not believe that there was a collapse in policing because they held the line and they were brave people.

Their colleagues rushed from other areas of the country to support them.

Cllr Gilroy said he was talking to a garda who had to go in without armed support to a female threatening the life of her parents with a knife.

That was the reality of what they did every day. A lot of people are calling on the Garda Commissioner to resign but the gardai did a very good job in Dublin.

They could have done with more support and more numbers but their colleagues rallied around them as quickly as they possibly could and it was a privilege to know some of them who were in the middle of it, he said.

He added that they needed to avoid having extremism on either side.

Extremists whether they are from the left or the right are only encouraging the other side.

So the more that things are pushed to the left, the more things will push to the right.

So the extremities are winning but the centre has to hold.

In response, Cllr Bree said he did not want the message to go out from the meeting that there was criticism of the gardai who went out on the streets.

He said he had already said that the gardai had put their lives at risk to protect people.

But there was a failure in general terms in policing.

There were more than enough warnings sent to the Commissioner and the government.

In his opinion and in the opinion of many in the country, there was a failure of policing and it was admitted that control was lost for a short period.

He said he did not ever want to see that happen again.

But it was important that the word went out that the people of this country were fully supportive of the gardai.

Cllr Bree added that he would also note that to suggest that the Left was similar to the Right was untrue and nonsense.

It only served to distract people from addressing the significant threat from the far-right.

He said he had been out on many left wing demonstrations in Dublin over many years.

In the last few years he had been on marches of up to 10,000 people and there was only a handful of gardai there because they knew there was not going to be any trouble coming from the left.

So let us not try and diminish the role of the far-right.

The whole country saw what they did in Dublin and what they did outside the Dail.
Householders gather outside council HQ to press case for inclusion in scheme

Members of the Sligo Pyrite Action Group pictured outside Sligo County Council's headquarters at Riverside on Monday.

The Sligo Pyrite Action Group held a demonstration outside Sligo County Councils headquarters at Riverside ahead of the monthly council meeting on Monday morning.

The group since its formation in 2021 has been demanding for Sligo to be included in the Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme aimed at supporting homeowners whose houses or dwellings have been damaged or affected due to the use of defective concrete blocks during construction.

The concrete blocks that contain excessive amounts of mica or pyrite damages the building or house constructed using them. Cracks can appear in the walls of such houses.

Currently, the scheme applies only to the owners of affected houses in counties Clare, Donegal, Limerick and Mayo.

Marian Kennedy, a member of Sligo Pyrite Action Group who lives in Tubbercurry, told The Sligo Champion that it is disheartening to see the family home affected, the house we built for ourselves and our children falling down like this. She said: Myself and my husband built our house 18 years ago, we never went on holidays, we went nowhere because our ambition was to build a house for our children.

Four years ago, my sisters house was affected by pyrite and when she came to my house, she told me that my house might have pyrite too.

Then the engineers came in and they were 99.9 per cent sure that our house has pyrite.

We have concealed the cracks properly, so it doesnt look as bad, but we do want our house to be standing in our memory, as this is our legacy for our children.

They didnt get to go on holiday, they didnt get the education we wanted for them, so this is what we want them to have. This is not just about our house, but every house that is affected by pyrite in the country should be treated equally.

Houses are one of the biggest investments anyone makes in their life. People put their heart and soul into it, pay the mortgage for years just to have a home of their own.

Ita Harper, another member of Sligo Pyrite Action Group from Enniscrone said: We built our house in 2001 and had planned on replacing the windows and doors in 2015. When the contractor came to visit and check, he told us that there were lots of cracks in the house, so that was the first time it was highlighted for us.

We had testing done in 2017 at our own expense and that confirmed that there was pyrite present in the blocks. It is getting worse now, the cracks are on the inside as well.

The county council did their own test in February, we havent got the report yet, but we are very sure that there is pyrite in our house.

Its very difficult for anyone, as they put their whole lives into it. You put your savings into it, pay the mortgage, pay the property taxes and you think of having a peaceful house.

Its especially difficult for older people who have retired and want to relax but they cant. The uncertainty is very painful.

The Government has put in place a national 2.7bn-plus mica/pyrite redress scheme. More than 7,000 properties are impacted by mica block contamination, the bulk in the North West.

According to the Sligo Pyrite Action Group at least 170 houses are affected by pyrite in Sligo, yet the county has not been included in the national grant scheme.

Stephen Rutledge, Chairperson of the group said: Its a desperate situation here in Sligo. The houses are affected by pyrite, that ruins houses. The houses are disintegrating, and they are eventually going to fall.

They keep telling us that we are going to be included in the grant scheme, but we have been waiting for at least two and a half years. We tested five houses in Sligo last year and they all came up positive with pyrite. The council has all the reports.

If your house is affected with pyrite, then it cant even be sold. So, then the property becomes worthless.

There are at least 170 houses in Sligo affected by pyrite and more will come forward once the grant comes in.

A motion was put forwards by local councilor Thomas Healy in support of the demands to bring Sligo under the National Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme at the Council meeting.

Cllr Healy went on to accuse the government of discrimination against Sligo.

He said there wasnt a town or village in the county that was not affected by the scourge.

He made an impassioned plea for the county to be included in the defective blocks scheme, watched by around a dozen members of the local Pyrite Action Group who applauded Cllr Healy after his speech in the chamber.

He pointed out that a number of neighbouring counties had been deemed eligible for the scheme but Sligo was being ignored.

Cllr Healys motion called on Sligo County Council and the Irish government to take notice of a meeting held on November 23 where a group of concerned homeowners met to discuss the ongoing concerns and were very angry at the pace in which Sligo is at regarding the inclusion in the defective blocks scheme.

The motion added that the Sligo Pyrite Action Group are calling on the council, the government and all local representatives to once and for all to have Sligo included in the scheme.

Cllr Healy told the meeting that the motion was born out of sheer frustration.

We had a meeting on December 13 three years ago and we feel we are no further on. Pyrite is a huge issue here in Sligo.

And, we are only talking about private houses.

There have been numerous motions on this, but we dont seem to be getting any further on.

We got a report from the Housing Agency as well and it states at the end that it is expected that a report and recommendations would issue in time as to whether Sligo County Council should have access to the defective blocks scheme.

We had meetings with the Minister for Housing, and he said he did not know that Sligo had pyrite at all.

He added; Do you know what it is like to live in a house with cracks in your walls and ceilings and wondering what weather condition is coming ahead of you?

One woman told me that one day is like a week in her house and one week is like a year, but nobody seems to be listening to us and nobody seems to be taking responsibility.

Nobody is standing up for these people and it is not their fault.

It is the fault of this government and past governments where they did not put in regulations as we have seen defective blocks put into houses across this county.

But our neighbours in Mayo and Donegal are in the redress scheme.

We walked the streets of Dublin but got nothing back. We need to send out a clear message here today.

This is the first action that the pyrite group has taken in Sligo ,and it is out of pure frustration.

If these people here behind my back in the chamber could speak, I am telling you they would be talking a lot harder than I am.

I spoke to another woman who had to leave her home.

They came and told her to get out of your house as its too dangerous to live in.

Imagine that, after all your years of paying your mortgage and putting your heart and soul into your house that you want to pass on to the next generationand to be told that you cant live in your own home.

This time of the year with rain, frost and the snow cracks appear and the wind is whistling through the cracks in your house.

There is a severe mental health aspect to this as well as the financial burden.

We are talking about people who have struggled to pay their mortgage and now they are facing into paying another mortgage at a time when they should be enjoying their hard earned home.

Cllr Walsh said they needed to be serious about this issue.

There is a committee in Sligo County Council set up to work with the pyrite group. We want to see action and want results.

The time for talking is over. We need action and these people behind me are hearing from their friends in Donegal that progress is being made.

But we are getting nowhere.

We as local representatives need to take action now.

A written reply from Jim Molloy, Director of Services stated:

Sligo County Council appointed a consultant in November 2022 to prepare a report which would estimate the extent of properties with concrete blocks containing certain deleterious materials within County Sligo.

Sligo County Council obtained 16 expressions of interest from homeowners in County Sligo (via Sligo Pyrite Action Group) nominating their properties to be considered for further investigation.

The consultant shortlisted 5 of these properties for a condition survey and core sampling, having cognisance of their geographical location within County Sligo and their potential for positively identifying with defective blockwork.

The final report was issued by Sligo County Council to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on 12th May 2023 for consideration.

The Housing Agency, who are managing the defective blocks issue countrywide on behalf of the Department appointed a consultant to review the report submitted by Sligo County Council in September 2023.

Over the last number of weeks, the consultant has visited the five properties identified within Sligo County Councils report and carried out building condition assessment reports (a visual non-invasive review of the properties both internally and externally).

It is expected that a report and recommendation as to whether Sligo County Council should be accepted onto the defective blocks scheme will be issued by the Housing Agency to DHLGH over the coming weeks.
Mullingar's Midland Regional Hospital was among a number of locations that witnessed lunchtime protests by Forsa trade union members over the HSE's recruitment freeze

Health chiefs have been warned of a potential escalation of industrial action on behalf of clerical and administration staff unless the HSEs recruitment freeze is lifted.

It comes after scores of workers staged a lunchtime protest outside the gates of Mullingars Midland Regional Hospital in Mullingar at lunchtime on Wednesday.

That action, Forsa traded union members contend was precipitated by the HSEs decision last month to extend its moratorium on hiring additional staff, with the exception of consultants, doctors in training and 2023 graduate nurses and midwives.

Charney Weitzman, who was among over 50 employees that took part in Wednesdays lunchtime protest in Mullingar, stressed staff were absolutely determined to ensure their concerns were met by health bosses.

All we are looking for is that when one person leaves they are replaced, he said.

Mullingar's Midland Regional Hospital was among a number of locations that witnessed lunchtime protests by Forsa trade union members over the HSE's recruitment freeze

The employer is refusing to do that and while we are worried about the impact on our staff, what we are really worried about is the impact on patients, service users and clients.

Forsas national secretary for Health and Welfare, Ashley Connolly said the financial heasaches being experienced by HSE management was outside of the control of its members, who warned of the ramifications facing the health sector unless its fears are addressed.

Clerical and admin staff at the HSE are not responsible for budget overruns, she said. Despite extensive engagement by Forsa, the HSE remains unwilling to acknowledge that vacant posts must be filled. At this time of year, the health services need to be fully staffed, not understaffed.

As we enter the midwinter season, vital posts remain unfilled, which will mean pressure building up at points of delivery throughout our health service.

The HSE must recruit and fill vital positions now, before services are irreversibly affected.

In a statement, the HSE said it had been left disappointed by the decision of Forsa to engage in indusrial action but maintained patients and frontline services would remain unaffected.

"We will continue to conduct risk assessments to monitor any likely impacts to services," read the statement. Derogations will be sought through our dialogue with Forsa, to ensure the protection of services, and to ensure that there is no risk to patients or emergencies throughout this dispute.

"It must be noted, the Government funded the HSE to recruit to over 6,000 new posts in 2023 to support the development of services. We reached that target before the end of the year, hence the temporary pause.

"During 2023 we also filled 13,000 replacement posts.
WWETB will manage the new school, which is due to be established for the 2024/25 school year

Minister for Education Norma Foley TD and Minister of State with responsibility for Special Education and Inclusion Josepha Madigan TD have announced the establishment of four new special schools as part of a comprehensive update on enhanced education provision for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN).

The announcement outlined that one of these special schools will be located in Gorey, Wexford and will be managed by Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB).

Acting Chief Executive for WWETB, Dr Karina Daly, said that she was very happy to hear that this provision was being made available in Gorey.

We are happy that the Departments have entrusted WWETB with the responsibility of managing this new school and we will do our utmost to ensure that it is a positive and supportive environment for all students attending school there. We await further information from the Department as to the actual location of the school and the details around enrolment, but in the main, this is very positive news for the town and county.

In total, it is intended that four new special schools  one in counties Kildare, Limerick, Meath and Wexford  will be established for the 2024/25 school year. These schools will provide for the enrolment of children and young people with autism and complex learning needs up to 18 years of age. The four special schools will operate under the patronage of the local Education and Training Boards (ETBs) at each location.

Details in relation to the specific location of the new special school in Gorey, along with the admission process and the number of places to be offered for 2024/25 school year in each new special school will be confirmed very shortly.

Local Fianna Fail Senator, Malcolm Byrne, has welcomed the announcement of a new special school in Gorey.

Senator Byrne said: It is absolutely excellent news that a new special school has been announced for Gorey. It will cater for young people with autism and complex learning needs up to 18 years of age, helping Wexford pupils with special educational needs and their families achieve the best possible outcomes.

I want to recognise the efforts of everybody in Wexford involved in supporting the continued establishment of special classes and special schools. Having an education system that works for all and ensures that every child has access to a welcoming and inclusive environment to learn and flourish is a top priority of Fianna Fail in Government.

Details in relation to the precise location of the new special school, the admission process and the number of places to be offered for the 2024/25 school year will be confirmed very shortly by my party colleague, Minister for Education Norma Foley, and her Department.

Planning for the establishment and opening of the new special school will begin immediately and WWETB will work closely with the Department of Education to put the necessary measures in place. This will include a determination of the size of the school to allow for opening in 2024 and to ensure that all the necessary staff recruitment, school policy development and related arrangements can be put in place. This will also include ongoing communication with the families concerned.
1 Fairytale Of New York The Pogues featuring Kirsty MacColl

2 When I Fall In Love/My Arms Keep Missing You Rick Astley

3 The Way You Make Me Feel Michael Jackson

4 Marino Waltz John Sheahan and Michael Howard

5 Always On My Mind Pet Shop Boys

6 Letter From America The Proclaimers

7 The Look Of Love Madonna

8 What Do You Want To Make Those Eyes At Me For Shakin Stevens

9 China In Your Hand TPau

10 Rockin Around The Christmas Tree Mel Smith and Kim Wilde

The non-Christmassy cover of many people's favourite Christmas number one.

The death of Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan less than a month before Christmas has dragged perhaps his greatest songwriting achievement firmly back into the chart spotlight. The question is, will it finally reach number one in the UK charts? Will it be sitting comfortably in the Christmas number one spot in Britain come December 25?

We dont yet know, but we can say for certain that one of the greatest Christmas songs of all time has already enjoyed an extraordinary chart journey in both the UK and Ireland.

Next week marks the 36th anniversary of the moment Fairytale Of New York claimed the top spot in the Irish singles chart. It reached No.1 ahead of the official December 13 chart in 1987 and stayed there right into the early weeks of 1988 - eventually being toppled by Belinda Carlisles Heaven Is A Place On Earth on January 17, 1988.

Famously, Fairytale Of New York did not reach No.1 in the UK and never has...though that might change in coming days. After The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl performed the song on Top Of The Pops in December 17, 1987, it did rocket to number two int he UK charts, but Pet Shop Boys cruelly denied them a number one hit with their synth-pop version of Always On My Mind. Shane MacGowan was later reported to have said: We were beaten by two queens and a drum machine.

In spite of the songs failure to secure the top spot in the UK, it has a chart record no other single can match. It has made the Top 20 on twenty separate occasions including nineteen times in successive years, and the Top 10 on ten separate occasions. Its 21 visits to the UK chart to date now total 114 weeks on the official Top 75, making it the sixth most charted song of all time.

In Ireland, the song has revisited the top ten fourteen times since its release, including every Christmas for the past seven years.

Written by Shane MacGowan and fellow Pogue Jem Finer, Fairytale Of New York is one of the best-loved Christmas songs of all time. Writing in The Guardian in 2012, Dorian Lynskey summed up the appeal: Once upon a time a band set out to make a Christmas song. Not about snow or sleigh rides or mistletoe or miracles, but lost youth and ruined dreams. A song in which Christmas is as much the problem as it is the solution. A kind of anti-Christmas song that ended up being, for a generation, the Christmas song. It is loved because it feels more emotionally real than the homesick sentimentality of White Christmas or the bullish bonhomie of Merry Xmas Everybody, but it contains elements of both and the story it tells is an unreal fantasy of 1940s New York dreamed up in 1980s London.
Two members of staff, including a pregnant woman, were left terrified by the ordeal

A knife wielding robber left two young children in a parked car while he raided a shop in the Wicklow/Wexford border village of Kilanerin.

Peter Sheeran (32) from 9 Carraig Mor, Kilcoole, County Wicklow, pleaded guilty to robbery when he appeared at Wexford Circuit Court. Judge Cormac Quinn learned that the defendant was apprehended by members of the public after making off with more than 1,000 snatched from the till at Murphys Gala store.
Speed van detections in the Rosslare Municipal District (RMD) have risen by 266 per cent this year as gardai increase the number of GoSafe vans on the roads of south Wexford. In the whole of 2022 there were 83 detections, while this years figure currently stands at 221. However, despite an increase in fatal road collisions nationally, there have been no road deaths in the RMD to date this year.

Superintendent Jim Doyle discussed these figures and road safety issues in the district during a special meeting with councillors in county hall. And Councillor Ger Carthy said proposals to reduce speed limits in the RMD would not address a problem which had its origins elsewhere.

The governments approach is to decrease the speed limits and penalise everyone, but we would be better served with larger numbers of traffic corp members, more GoSafe vans, and our roads being maintained in a better condition. Theres been a massive reduction in the amount of money allocated to Wexford County Council to upgrade its roads, he said.

Cllr Carthy also called for the council to witness, first-hand, the impact of fatal road traffic accidents so that its staff could gain an understanding of the districts problem areas.

If youre present at some of those fatal road traffic collisions you know its not a nice place to be, he said. Fatalities are low in the area, thank God, but our area engineer should be sent to any collision which occurs in the RMD, no matter how minor or trivial, there could be an issue which needs to be examined.

One problem area, according to Cllr Lisa McDonald, is the road connecting Rosslare to Wexford town, a road which will eventually be supplanted by a new motorway.

There are pockets which are really dangerous, drivers arent speeding but the limits are too high from Roches Garage in Drinagh to Rathaspeck. The number of trucks on that road have increased by a huge percentage and theyre hurtling along those roads.

Having been informed by Supt Doyle that unless someone was breaking the law, it didnt fall within the remit of the gardai, Cllr McDonald said this was an issue which was falling between stools.

"Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) will say its a policing matter, but its not a policing matter because theyre not breaking the law, she noted, it could be seven to eight years before any motorway is finalised, yet any time we raise this issue were told to go somewhere else.
Legendary Irish Olympian, Arklows Ronnie Delaney, has contributed to a new RNLI podcast and talks about his work alongside the lifesaving charity.

In 1956, Ronnie Delaney won a gold medal in the 1500m race at the Olympics in Melbourne. Now 87, and a Vice President of the RNLI, Ronnie takes pride in how he competed for an all-Ireland country as an athlete, and how through his work with the RNLI, hes supporting an all-Ireland charity.

The Arklow athlete contributes to the highly acclaimed RNLI 200 Voices podcast with an episode entitled A Beautiful Thing, which aired on Wednesday, November 29.

He talks of how the RNLI is apolitical in Ireland, of extraordinary friendships hes made through the RNLI, and commends the charitys commitment to saving lives at sea  in his words: a beautiful thing. His connection to lifeboats occurred after his Olympics win when he became a successful businessman and a shipping company executive.

The unique podcast series hears from people connected to the RNLI in Ireland and those whose lives have been touched by the charity. Hear from locals with a special kinship to their lifeboat station, a crew member whos been on service for a generation, or the family of someone rescued by an RNLI frontline lifesaver  each episode is sure to take the listener on a journey through a touching story.

You can listen to RNLIs 200 Voices wherever you get your podcasts or at RNLI.org/200Voices.
Further discussion on plans for an outdoor performance space for Greystones took place at the November meeting of Greystones Municipal District, when councillors raised several issues for the space earmarked for La Touche Road car park area, including management of the recreational facility, noise and access for members of the public who wish to use it for their own needs.

The origins of the plans go back to 2020 and the outdoor recreation scheme established by Wicklow County Council, and while 250,000 has been approved by the Council for Greystones, this is being matched by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media to bring the budget for the project to almost 500,000.

WCC Arts Officer Jenny Sherwin gave a presentation on the project to councillors, outlining the vision of architects Mola, who have come up with a design in principle, given surveys, including an archaeological survey, have yet to be carried out and the project needs to see its way through the planning process, which will include submissions from members of the public.

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The architects, who have pedigree when it comes to planning in the context of public realm/heritage and community, looked at elements impacting the project, including its location beside the sea and the cover needed to mitigate bad weather, as well as what kind of references to draw on in terms of a raised platform  or possibly a a sunken area depending on what the surveys uncover.

Given the location is currently a car park, doing away with spaces altogether is another sticking point, and the facility will also likely need to include toilets.

One of the key aspects of the facility is to connect the main street with the promenade area, and the early design includes a canopy for shelter, see-through, and open at both ends.

Tweaks to the design will be made before a final draft is presented again to the councillors in January and more accurate timelines will be in place by February. However, the funds do need to be drawn down within a year.

Councillor Stephen Stokes, who commended the plans for a civic space, but had also been advocating for improvements in the area in question, asked whether other sites in the town, such as Burnaby Park, had been considered as it seemed like the natural spot. He also queried whether there would be noise spill that would affect residents adjacent to it.

The issue of the natural elements was raised by Councillor Derek Mitchell, who wondered whether the proximity to the sea would make the space cold for the public, particularly if the wall that currently acts as a shelter was to come down.

Beside the sea is cold, he said. I cant envisage how it would be used, but Im open to ideas.

He also raised the issue of access for Irish Rail, who require large vehicle access, and for rail users who need the car parking spaces. Councillor Gerry Walsh echoed the concerns over the loss of parking, while Councillor Mark Barry, who also wondered about noise levels, asked whether parking could be facilitated when the space was not in use.

Calling the proposal exciting and remarking she had got positive feedback, Councillor Lourda Scott thought it was a great idea to connect the main street with the seafront area. She wanted more details, and to know whether it would be suitable for art exhibitions, theatre, installations and for those who wish to use it for outdoor yoga, as there was a huge demand for that in the town. She also asked if spaces could be reserved for disabled parking.

Responding, Ms Sherwin said it would be hard to have both a car park and an outdoor recreation space, but five spaces could be held for disabled and/or electric vehicles. In terms of a flexible arrangement, if it is being used as a car park in the absence of events, it would be hard to take back but the architects could look at a raised platform to prevent caravans and camper vans using it, which was something Cllr Stokes has pointed to in the past.

Designers could look at ways to mitigate against the cold, but were unlikely to offer much, while Irish Rail is being consulted over access it requires.

In terms of other sites, this is the one that had been identified for funding and there is no flexibility on that. Burnaby Park is frequently used and is there for people to hold pop-up events.

District Engineer Ruairi OHanlon also remarked that there have been several additions to the park, including the chess tables and 1916 memorial, and the multi-functionality of it would rule it out.

There was also the issue of noise for Burnaby residents, and the La Touche site was chosen as it was a high-amenity value in terms of views and aspects.

It is not envisaged that there will be regular events at the space, and there will be a cut-off time to limit noise.

The management and admin falls under the remit of Greystones Municipal District, but it will otherwise be an open public space that will lend itself to a variety of uses, which could include yoga, dance, markets and fairs and so on.

The space, Ms Sherwin said, is there to be used by as many groups as possible, by everybody and anybody.

We are investing our money into it we want to have used, she said, adding that submissions from the public will be taken into consideration.
Gda Molly Corbett, President of Bray & District Chamber of Commerce Kieran Ward and Sgt Jennifer Carrick at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Bray.

Christ Church COI

Services of Worship for this Sunday The Second Sunday of Advent: 11am: Holy Baptism.

Parish Life Centre [PLC] Bookings: The Parish Life Centre is available for day and evening bookings. Please contact Tracey in the Parish Office at 01-2862968.

Parish Office: The Parish Office can be contacted at 01- 286 2968 or info@christchurchbray.ie between 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday.

Connect Online: Our most active communication tools currently are our Website www.christchurchbray.ie which contains information on our live streamed worship services,

weekly Blogs, events and news, and our facebook page @christchurchbray.

Irish Trefoil Guild - Guiding for Life: Calling all former leaders of the Irish Girl Guides in Bray and the surrounding area. There is now a Trefoil Guild in Bray. Contact Anne at braytrefoilguild@gmail.com.

Bray Methodist Church

Worship this Sunday: 10am - Sunday Worship with Creche and Sunday School.

Bray Presbyterian Church

Worship this Sunday: 11.30am Sunday Worship with Sunday School.

Christian Assembly Church

Worship this Sunday: 10.45am Morning Worship

Wednesdays: 8pm Prayer Meeting & Bible study.

Cornerstone Church at The Well

Worship this Sunday: 11am.

Bray Gospel Hall

Bray Gospel Hall, 27 Florence Road - Sunday Morning 10.45am to 12 Noon: Breaking of Bread (Lords Supper) - A Time of Worship, Praise and Remembrance.

Holy Redeemer Parish

Contact Holy Redeemer Parish: Call (01) 2868413. Website: www.holyredeemerbray.ie; Email: office@holyredeemerbray.ie.

Parish Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 9.30am to 11am. If you need to contact us email: office@holyredeemer.ie.

Mass Times: 10am - Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday No Mass on Tuesday. Sunday Masses: 6pm Vigil Mass on Saturday and on Sunday at 10.30am and 12Noon. To book a Mass, please call into the Sacristy before or after our Masses. This Friday is the Feast

of the Immaculate Conception and a Holy Day of Obligation. Tomorrow (Thursday) there is a Vigil Mass at 7.30pm in St. Annes Church, Shankill.

Mass Cards: Mass Cards may be purchased from the Parish Office during its opening hours.

Baptism: Registration for Baptism can be made online via the parish website www.holyredeemerbray.ie.

St. Annes Church, Shankill: The Vigil Mass on Saturdays is celebrated at 5pm. All are welcome.

St. Peters Parish

To Book a Mass: To book a Mass, please contact the Parish Office on 01- 282 9467 or email: stpeterslittlebray1@gmail.com.

Parish Office: Parish Office opening hours are - Monday: 9.30am to 12.30pm; Tuesday: 9am to 12.30pm; Wednesday: Closed; Thursday: 9am to 12.30pm; Friday: 9am to 12.30pm. The parish office can be contacted by calling 01-282 4967 or by email: stpeterslittlebray1@gmail.com.

St. Peters Church Mass Times: Sunday: 9.30am (Irish), 11.30am. Holy Days of Obligation: 11.30am. This Friday is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception and a Holy Day of Obligation. Tomorrow (Thursday) there is a Vigil Mass at 7.30pm in St. Annes Church, Shankill. No Weekday Mass. Mass on the First Friday of the Month is celebrated at 10am.

Car Park Hours: These are from 9am to 12.30pm, Monday to Friday, for parish business and at the weekends during church ceremonies. The Cemetery is accessible via Laneway for Pedestrians.

St. Peters Cemetery: There is a strict policy of No Dumping Allowed in any area of the cemetery. Visitors to the cemetery are requested to take home all forms of rubbish with them in order to keep the cemetery tidy. Your co-operation is appreciated.

St. Annes Church, Shankill: A Vigil Mass is celebrated on Saturdays at 5pm. All are welcome.

St. Fergals Parish

Mass Times: Mass times are 9.30am Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. No morning Mass on Thursdays and Saturdays. Saturday: 7.30pm Vigil Mass; Sundays: 8am and 10.30am.

Baptism: Baptisms take place on the first and third Saturday of each Month at 12Noon. Bookings can be made through the Parish Office Only. The Preparation meeting takes place on the Monday before the 1st Saturday of the month. Please call into the Parish Office three weeks in advance of the Baptism to complete the Baptism Form and to confirm the date.

Confessions: Are heard on Saturdays after the 7pm Vigil Mass.

Marriage: All couples must give notice to the priest or Parish Secretary at least three months prior to the date of marriage.

Facebook page for the Bray & Enniskerry Pastoral Area: Check out Bray and Enniskerry Pastoral Area for all the news and information of our Pastoral Area.

Syro Malabar Catholic Church

Mass is celebrated every Sunday at 2.30pm in St. Fergals Church, Ballywaltrim.

Our Lady Queen of Peace

Parish Website: www.queenofpeace.ie.

Church Opening Hours: The Church closes at 4.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Eucharistic Adoration: Eucharistic Adoration takes place from 11am to 10pm on Mondays only in this Church.

Mass: Weekday Masses are celebrated at 10.30am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Weekend Masses are at 6.30pm on Saturdays and 10.30am and 12 Noon on Sundays. This Friday is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception and a Holy Day of Obligation. Tomorrow (Thursday) there is a Vigil Mass at 7.30pm in St. Annes Church, Shankill.

Mass Bookings: Anyone who wishes to book a Mass can do so by contacting the Parish Secretary via email at: secretary@queenofpeace.ie, or call 2745497.

Parish Centre: To book a meeting room in the Parish Centre please call 01-2760045 or email: villafas1@hotmail.com.

Facebook Page: Please visit and like our Facebook page: Bray and Enniskerry Pastoral Area.

QOP youth club

The Queen of Peace Adventure Youth Club based on Bray Seafront is endeavouring to expand into an exciting and challenging programme of activities for the future. They are discussing climbs on Lugnaquilla, Carrauntoohil, Snowden, and Ben Nevis. Some would like the consideration of training for Kilimanjaro, and the possibility of base camp on Everest. Other items include river, lake, and see kayaking. All this will mean seeking help from members parents and guardians plus assistance from members of the local community.

Diving club

Bray Divers Sub-aqua Club is planning dive trips to Portroe Slate Quarry near Nenagh in County Tipperary before and after Christmas. Early in the New Year a return to Lanzarote will also take place. Now is the time to join the club and be trained in time to maximise the enjoyment when the warmer weather returns.

A drop-in night from 5pm to 7pm will be on Wednesday in the Dive Centre in Greystones Harbour. On the night information will be freely available regarding diving locally, nationally, and abroad.

Bray Library

Opening hours are 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday with late opening on Tuesday and Thursday until 8.30pm. The library can be contacted at 01-2862600 or email: braylib@wicklowcoco.ie. Online services including e-books, audio-books, digital magazines and newspapers and e-learning are available via the library website.

The library is again involved in Imbolc, the Community Seed Arc programme, where one can get seeds for a variety of plants and after they flower, donate seeds from them for the programme. As always, you can have seeds sent to your local Wicklow Library branch by emailing your branch - and requesting up to 4 packets. Knit and Crochet for Purple House Cancer Support takes place at 11am every Monday in the library no need to book. Doodle Time for 9-12 year olds takes place every Thursday from 3pm to 4pm.

James Scannell will recall Christmas 1957 in Wicklow at 11.30am on Wednesday December 20th in Wicklow Town Branch Library, The Mall, Main Street, Wicklow Town. All are welcome - admission is free but booking is required - contact Wicklow Library on 0404-67025 or email wicklowlocalstudies@wicklowcoco.ie to book your place.

Ballywaltrim Library

Opening hours are 10am to 5 pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and 10am to 8pm on Wednesday. The library can be contacted at 01-2723205 or by email at: ballywatrimlibrary@wicklowcoco.ie. Online services including e-books, audio-books, digital magazines and newspapers and e-learning are available via the library website. Borrowers can renew their books on-line at any time. Tummy-Time for Babies takes place every Monday and Friday from 10.30am to 12pm no booking required.

James Scannell will recall Christmas 1957 in Wicklow at 11.30am on Wednesday December 20th in Wicklow Town Branch Library, The Mall, Main Street, Wicklow Town. All are welcome - admission is free but booking is required - contact Wicklow Library on 0404-67025 or email wicklowlocalstudies@wicklowcoco.ie to book your place.

Bray Cualann Historical Society

The Bray Cualann Historical Society, the local history society for Bray and North Wicklow does not hold a meeting in December so the next meeting of the Society will take place in the Royal Hotel, Bray, at 8pm on Thursday January 18th 2024 when the AGM will take place and will conclude with a presentation by James Scannell called A Dangerous Place to Work - a selection of accidents in and around Bray Railway Station.

Members and supporters of the Bray Cualann Historical Society are asked to note that the following events take place in the week ahead tonight (Wednesday) Eileen ODuffy will present Champagne, Cocktails and Crepes Suzette: Wining, dining and dancing in Dun Laoghaire through the ages at 8pm to the Dun Laoghaire Borough Historical Society in the Royal Marine Hotel, Marine Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. All are welcome - admission is 5; Lindi Naughton will present Herbert Simms, Dublin City Architect at 8pm to the Rathmichael Historical Society in Rathmichael National School, Stonebridge Road, Shankill, Co. Dublin. Admission is 5 for non-members; tomorrow (Thursday) leading researcher, Dr. Edward Bourke will speak on the various attempts to kill Michael Collins based on new research, at 7.30pm in the Eblana Club, Elblana Avenue, Dun Laoghaire. All are welcome admission is free; Cathal Brugha will present Two Grandfathers at 8pm to the Mount Merrion Historical Society in the Fitzwilliam Rooms, Mount Merrion Community Centre, Mount Merrion, Co. Dublin. All are welcome admission is 4 - and 2 for students; on Saturday Marcin Hasik will present The Legion of Ukrainian Sich Riflemen, 1914-1920 at 2pm to the Western Front Association (Dublin Branch) in the Conference Room, Dublin City Library & Archive, 139-144 Pearse Street, Dublin 2. All are welcome and admission is free; next Monday Dr. Melanie Brown will present Without Words: Our World Reflected in Evolving Styles at 6.30pm in Terenure Library, Templeogue Road, Dublin 6. All are welcome and admission is free booking is not required.

Poetry in the Park

Poetry in the Park takes place on the First Sunday of Every Month at 12pm on the bandstand in the Peoples Park, Lower Dargle Road, Bray. Listen to or read your favourite poems, hear original poetry performed by local poets or simply chat with other poetry fans in this beautiful outdoor setting on the banks of the River Dargle.
THIS MORNING presenter Craig Doyle has joined calls to get the Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk back open, after he featured it among his favourite walks for a series on the ITV show he co-hosts.

Craig, who grew up in Kilmacud in South County Dublin but now lives with his wife and young family in County Wicklow, recently kicked off a series of walking trips around Britain and Ireland with one of his favourite strolls  the famous Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk.

However, the walk has become even more famous in recent years because it has been closed since 2021 and the presenter is now backing residents and local councillors who have been calling for work to get under way to have the hugely popular walk reopened.

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Ireland is well known for its luscious landscape and glorious coastline and although I have travelled all over the world for work, there is nothing like being back home in County Wicklow, he said.

Standing on the promenade in Bray, he describes the seaside town as having something for everyone, from people walking their dogs and others having chats and admiring the views, before taking to the cliff walk which he said was a beautiful piece of Ireland, a beautiful piece of Wicklow.

He also speaks of memories he has walking there with his father, who was in a nearby nursing home.

As someone who is familiar with the route, Craig was obviously unable to complete the walk given it is effectively closed off at both ends, and instead entered the wider Bray Head Special Area of Conservation, which is still possible to do at the entrance at Windgates, where you can walk inland and re-join sections of the trail that are still open and frequented by walkers.

Craig bemoaned the fact that it has been some time since the rock fall at the Bray end, which prevented him from enjoying the full trail.

We are encouraging Wicklow County Council to get the work done as soon as possible so everyone can enjoy all of this beautiful walk without diversions, he said. Hopefully, highlighting the beauty would help get the work done.

The film may also be used again at some stage. Its a beautiful bit of Ireland and we hope This Morning did its bit in getting more tourists to visit all of this beautiful area, Craig added.
Cillian Murphy and Margot Robbie on the cover of Variety Magazine

Margot Robbie has revealed she is a big fan of Cillian Murphy and that she loves Peaky Blinders in a new Variety interview.

The Barbenheimer has finally happened in real life as both stars of Barbie and Oppenheimer sat down together for a new Actors on Actors interview.

During the interview, Robbie said: In my opinion, there are two kinds of people in this world.

There are the people who are obsessed with Peaky Blinders, and then theres the people who havent seen Peaky Blinders.

I obviously sit in the first category, so can we please talk about Tommy f*****g Shelby for just one minute? she said.

The Australian movie star asked the Oppenheimer actor whether there is a possibility of a Peaky Blinders spin-off, to which Murphy was optimistic about.

Im open to the idea. Ive always thought that if theres more story to tell, said the Cork man.

Both actors spoke about the Barbenheimer phenomenon which dominated all cinemas in the world last summer.

People kept asking me, So is each marketing department talking to each other?, and I was like, No, this is the world doing this! This is not a part of the marketing campaign, she said.

To which Murphy said: And I think it happened because both movies were good.

In fact, that summer, there was a huge diversity of stuff in the cinema, and I think it just connected in a way that you or I or the studios or anybody could never have predicted.

Robbie also admitted she loves Murphys sleep story on the Calm app.

Obviously, Ive now revealed that I am a big fan of yours, not just Peaky Blinders. I also love your sleep story on the Calm app, she said.

It may never happen again, he added.
Ukraine warns of big risk it could lose war if US aid is postponed

Republicans blocked $106bn package to fund plans for Ukraine, Israel and US border security

Roman (8) wounded by a Russian missile strike performs at a ballroom dance competition with his face covered by a burn mask. Photo: Roman Baluk

Jonathan Landay and Tom Balmforth Wed 6 Dec 2023 at 03:30







Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskys chief of staff said yesterday that the postponement of US assistance for Kyiv being debated in Congress would create a big risk of Ukraine losing the war with Russia.
Ukrainians prepare for a long war  but will the West stay the course?

No end in sight after more than 21 months of warUkrainians highly dependent on Western military aidUkrainian counteroffensive brought no big breakthrough

A local resident walks in front of damaged residential buildings, amid Russia's attack non Ukraine, in the town of Avdiivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine October 17, 2023. REUTERS/Yevhen Titov/File Photo

Tom Balmforth Wed 6 Dec 2023 at 09:20

Oleksii Tilnenko hoped this would be the year Ukraine drove Russian forces out of swathes of occupied land. As 2023 draws to a close, his southern hometown of Kherson is still being pounded by shelling and the front line has barely budged.
The Irish divorce: Why the arrangement of celebrity couples like Jada Pinkett and Will Smith is not unusual to us
An Israeli artillery unit operates at the border with Gaza. Photo: Reuters

Israel is planning to force Hamas to abandon the tunnels beneath Gaza by flooding them with seawater, it has been reported.

US officials told the Wall Street Journal that the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) hoped to destroy the terror groups vast subterranean network by pumping water from the Mediterranean Sea into it.
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Photo Courtesy: Pixabay

Mumbai: The 11-member board of directors from Temasek is currently on an important visit to India, seen as a global bright spot, Moneycontrol reported.

This move is part of the Singapore investment giant's strategy to strengthen connections and expedite the deployment of $10 billion in the country over the next three years, the report said.

Temasek is a global investment company owned by the Government of Singapore. Incorporated on 25 June 1974, Temasek has a net portfolio of US$287 billion as of 2023, with S$27 billion divested and S$31 billion invested during the year, according to Wikipedia.

Having consistently invested an average of $1-$1.5 billion annually in India for the past 19 years, the company now aims to triple that amount, the report said, adding that the shift aligns with the trend of foreign investors redirecting their focus to India, which continues to surpass global counterparts in performance.

The visit by Temasek's top executives coincides with India's domestic stock markets reaching record highs, state election results indicating policy continuity, and robust Q2 GDP growth figures, firmly positioning India as the fastest-growing major economy.

"The entire Temasek board is on a 4-day trip to India and will spend time in Delhi and Mumbai this week. Meetings with industrialists, corporations and senior government officials are on the agenda," Moneycontrol quoted a source as saying.

Since August 2013, Lim Boon Heng has served as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Temasek, while Dilhan Pillay Sandrasegara took on the role of CEO in October 2021. Ravi Lambah, who joined Temasek in April 2012, holds the position of Head of India.

The report said quoting another source, Temasek has recently undertaken significant transactions in India, highlighting the country's importance to the company.

The decision to have a physical presence on the ground is considered crucial. The visit includes planned interactions with portfolio companies, where presentations will be made, according to the report.

In April, Temasek executed the largest-ever private equity deal in the Indian healthcare sector, acquiring a majority stake in Manipal Hospitals, led by Ranjan Pai, for over $2 billion.

Moneycontrol reported citing a third source as saying that India is currently a focal point for Temasek, and the entire board's exposure to local entrepreneurs and management teams is deemed advantageous. A similar visit was conducted by the board approximately 5-6 years ago.

Temasek's investments in India include notable entities such as Ola, Zomato, Dr Agarwal's Healthcare, Medica Superspeciality Hospital, Atomberg, UpGrad, HDFC Life, ICICI Prudential Life, Integrace, Curefit, and others.

This year, senior executives from other leading global funds have also visited India, expressing optimism about the investment climate.
Photo courtesy: wikipedia.org

New Delhi: Shree Cement plans to participate in the bidding process for lithium mining rights, Reuters reported.

On November 14, Mines Secretary V.L. Kantha Rao said that the Ministry of Mines is in the process of auctioning 20 blocks of critical minerals including lithium and graphite in the next two weeks.

Recently the government has identified a list of critical minerals including new-age minerals like Lithium, Cobalt, and Titanium, important for meeting the modern needs of cutting-edge technology sectors like electronics, telecom, transport and defence.

This is part of the government's initiative to ensure the production of crucial minerals via auctions that are anticipated to generate over $5 billion.

Reuters reported citing a source that the company plans to seek rights for lithium mining blocks in Jammu and Kashmir, where approximately 5.9 million tonnes of deposits were discovered in February.

Shree Cement, ranked as India's second-largest cement company by market capitalization, is also eyeing blocks in Chhattisgarh, located in the eastern part of the country.

The source told Reuters that this foray into mining would mark Shree Cement's initial venture in this sector.

The company has engaged with mining experts based in Australia to determine details such as the appropriate premium for its bid.

The company is also seeking expert guidance on the quality and grades of lithium reserves in Jammu and Kashmir.

Should Shree Cement successfully secure a lithium block in the region, it plans to collaborate with an Australian company for technical support in establishing a refinery, estimating a cost of approximately $600-700 million, the source told Reuters.
Dubai: President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev took part in the main plenary session of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28), taking place in Dubai and attended by heads of states and governments from more than 170 countries, besides heads of international organizations and financial institutions.

Congratulating the leadership and people of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on the national holiday and the successful organization of the historic summit, he emphasized on the global initiatives of the UAE in the fight against climate change and contribution to green development.

The President of Uzbekistan emphasized that climate change has become the most important challenge to sustainable development. This is especially acutely felt in Central Asia and neighboring regions against the backdrop of the Aral tragedy  one of the most destructive environmental crises of our time.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev drew the attention of those present to several facts.

Thus, the increase in air temperature in Central Asia is twice the global average, the number of extremely hot days has doubled, and a third of the glaciers have melted.

Soil degradation, regular dust and sand storms, shortage of drinking water, air pollution, loss of biodiversity, sharp decline in crop yields, and much more negatively affect the quality of life of millions of residents of the region, he said.

The President emphasized that the transition to a green economy and achieving carbon neutrality are the priority strategic objectives of New Uzbekistan.

In recent years, Uzbekistans share of alternative energy production has doubled. According to the Head of state, by 2030, capacity to generate 25 gigawatts of renewable electricity will be created. The first practical steps have already been taken to implement the green hydrogen production project.

In addition, as part of the Yashil Makon (Green Space) initiative, 1 billion tree seedlings are planted in Uzbekistan. Thanks to forest plantations with a total area of 2 million hectares at the bottom of the Aral Sea, air pollution in the Aral Sea region is reduced.

Moving on to the main agenda of the event, Shavkat Mirziyoyev put forward several proposals.

In particular, the President of Uzbekistan advocated for the speedy approval of the Global Climate Change Adaptation Framework as part of the Paris Agreement.

In this context, the Adaptation Strategy being developed on the platform of the Central Asian Climate Dialogue was noted.

He highly appreciated the decision taken the day before to create the Global Loss and Damage Fund.

Active support of these mechanisms by the World Bank and international financial institutions will make it possible to provide significant assistance primarily to those countries that suffer from climate change, he said. He emphasized that the global transition to a low-carbon economy must be fair, transparent, and inclusive and must take into account the interests of developing countries.

It was proposed to consider this urgent problem on an ongoing basis, including within the framework of the G7 and G20 summits.

To transform the Aral Sea region into a Zone of Innovation, Technology and New Opportunities, the President of Uzbekistan invited everyone to close cooperation to create an International Expo Hub of Climate Technologies in this region to apply advanced knowledge, experience, and solutions.

In addition, the President proposed establishing close scientific exchange and conducting joint research on the Climate Scientific Forum platform, created based on the Green University, with the involvement of leading scientists and experts from foreign countries.

The agenda of the forum will include current issues of preventing soil degradation, rational water use, and guaranteed food security.

Along with this, together with the United Nations, a Climate Migration Conference is planned to be held in Uzbekistan in 2024.

The President of Uzbekistan also announced initiatives to develop, together with the International Labour Organization, the Green Employment program, and the creation of a Center for modeling the impact of climate change on employment.

To actively involve young people in effectively solving climate problems, readiness was expressed to organize the COP Youth Conference in the country.

Confirming Uzbekistans commitment to the universal idea of humanity to combat climate change, the President of Uzbekistan called for supporting the conduction of the Samarkand International Climate Forum next year and the adoption of a special resolution of the UN General Assembly, reflecting the common approaches of Central Asia.

Following his speech, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev again expressed confidence that the results of the summit in Dubai will serve to bring together all countries and peoples on the path to a sustainable, prosperous, and safe future for the planet.
As you know, on the initiative of the chambers of the Oliy Majlis (parliament) of Uzbekistan, the Month of Sustainable Development Goals is being held in our country. Within its framework, over 20 events are held - international conferences, round tables, public hearings dedicated to each of the Sustainable Development Goals adopted in Uzbekistan.

In particular, recently an international conference was held in Tashkent on the topic Expanding the participation of civil society institutions and persons with disabilities in achieving the SDGs, organized by the Senate and the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of of Uzbekistan, the National Center for Human Rights, the Center for Sustainable Development, National Association of Non-Governmental Non-Profit Organizations, Institute of State and Law of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, UN agencies, representative office of the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ).

Senators and deputies of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, over 250 representatives of the scientific and expert community, civil society institutions of Uzbekistan, as well as foreign experts took part in its work.

The main emphasis of the event was on consideration of issues of expanding the participation of civil institutions, citizens, especially persons with disabilities, in the implementation of the sixteen National Goals for Sustainable Development of Uzbekistan until 2030, as well as discussion of the draft resolution of the UN General Assembly On expanding the participation of citizens and civil society in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals."

Let us note the main findings and conclusions reached by the participants of the international forum.

First, the forum participants came to a common conclusion that the concept of development itself, primarily the concept of sustainable development, is the most important component of the philosophy of reforms in New Uzbekistan, based on the ideas of human value, dignity, rights and freedoms, as well as the new development paradigm first man - then society - then the state.

It was emphasized that the ideas for achieving the SDGs, based on three  social, economic and environmental pillars, are the connecting link of large-scale reforms in Uzbekistan, and run like a red thread through such comprehensive strategic development programs of the country as the Strategy of Action for the five priority areas of development of the Republic of Uzbekistan in 2017-2021, Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026, as well as the Uzbekistan-2030 Strategy.

In particular, using specific examples, it was shown that the five directions of the Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy not only correspond to the UN Agenda 2030, but also fully cover all National goals and objectives of Uzbekistan for sustainable development. The conference participants emphasized that this Strategy and its 100 goals reflect the desire of our people to build a New Uzbekistan, creating all opportunities for every citizen to develop their own potential, raising a healthy, educated and morally mature generation, forming a strong economy, which is an important link in global production, ensuring justice and the rule of law, security and stability.

In this context, UN Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan Consuelo W. Bruce recalled the words of UN Secretary-General A. Guterres about the scale of the goals and objectives of the Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy, and its full consonance with the SDGs, and also expressed the readiness of the UN and all its institutions to promoting the practical implementation of this program document. At the same time, the main principle of the Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy is in the name of the honor and dignity of man, as well as the idea of Leaving no one behind. She especially noted that the SDGs are also fully integrated into the new edition of the Constitution of Uzbekistan and other important national strategies and concepts for the development of our country.

Second. The forum emphasized that the new edition of the Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan reflects the main provisions of the SDGs and created a constitutional and legal basis for their achievement, which once again indicates New Uzbekistans strong commitment to the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development until 2030.

Participants of the international forum especially noted that the initiator of the past constitutional reform in Uzbekistan, of course, was our people, broad sections of the public, and its main ideological inspirer was the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

Firstly, during the presidential elections in Uzbekistan in October 2021, at meetings of all candidates with representatives of the electorate, an important proposal was put forward, demanded by life itself and dictated by the logic of democratic transformations in our country. This is the implementation of constitutional reform.

In particular, voters put forward proposals on the relevance and vital importance of reflecting in the Basic Law of the country environmental human rights, the rights of current and future generations of the country's residents to a favorable environment, and improving the situation in environmentally unfavorable regions.

The need to further strengthen the constitutional and legal framework for the protection of private property, including land and subsoil, to ensure human dignity, human rights, freedoms and legitimate interests, interethnic and interfaith harmony in the country, to increase the role and status of civil society institutions, including h. mahallas, carefully conveying traditional values to future generations, strengthening the institution of family, developing state youth and gender policy, innovative and green economy and knowledge economy, expanding investments in the economy and social sphere.

Voters also emphasized the importance of determining the status of Uzbekistan as a social state, expanding constitutional and social protection of vulnerable segments of the population, especially persons with disabilities, building a socially oriented state, strengthening the constitutional foundations of the independence of the judiciary, ensuring the fairness of laws and court decisions, and implementing the principles of the supremacy of the Constitution and laws, human rights.

Secondly, based on an in-depth study of the wishes of voters, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev pointed out the need for constitutional reform, which was reflected in his two addresses to parliament and the people of the country, numerous speeches, as well as in his first fundamental monograph Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan .

Thirdly, political parties, primarily UzLiDeP and the Milliy Tiklanish Democratic Party, organized an in-depth study of the moods and wishes of their electorate regarding the upcoming constitutional reforms. At the same time, over 1.5 million members of these parties and their electorate not only supported, but also pointed out the need to modernize the Constitution as the most important condition for achieving the goals and objectives of the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan supported by the people, ensuring sustainable development, creating the necessary legal foundations for even more accelerated and dynamic reform of all spheres of socio-economic, political-legal, cultural and humanitarian life of society and the country.

Fourthly, during various stages of development and popular discussion of the draft new edition of the Constitution of Uzbekistan, over 220 thousand proposals were received from citizens, representatives of the academic community, civil society institutions, the private sector, government agencies and organizations. This is about 50 times more than the national discussion in 1992.

Fifthly, civil society institutions and the country's academic community took an active part in the development and discussion of the draft New Edition of the Constitution of Uzbekistan and the implementation of constitutional reforms.

According to the forum participants, all this testifies, on the one hand, to the strengthening of the civic position of the countrys population, increasing the activity of democratic institutions, and, on the other hand, to the growing openness and transparency of the reform policy being implemented in the country, based on the full involvement of citizens and civil institutions in the management of public affairs and states.

During the forum, participants used specific examples to demonstrate the full implementation of the SDGs in the new edition of the Constitution of Uzbekistan. In particular, the Constitution strengthens the norms in the field of ensuring a harmonious union of man and nature, combating climate change and protecting the natural environment (6th SDG), providing for:

further constitutional development of the country along the path of increasing and preserving for current and future generations the countrys invaluable natural resources and a healthy environment, as well as the implementation of a unified state policy in the field of environmental protection, conservation of natural wealth and biological diversity, combating climate change, epidemics, pandemics , mitigation of their consequences (Preamble, paragraph 4., Article 115);

securing the rights of everyone to a favorable environment, reliable information about its condition (Article 49), as well as the obligations of citizens to take care of the natural environment (Article 62);

responsibilities of the state in the implementation of measures in accordance with the principle of sustainable development to improve, restore and protect the environment, maintain ecological balance, as well as protect and restore the ecological system, social and economic development of the Aral Sea region (Article 49).

In terms of achieving the SDGs, the importance of the novelties of the Constitution of Uzbekistan is also indicated, in the new edition concerning the construction of a social and legal state, ensuring sustainable economic development, etc.

Third. Participants of the international forum noted the trend of consistently expanding the participation of civil society in the implementation of the goals and objectives of sustainable development. The UN 2030 Agenda itself is based on the concept of participation and involvement of civil society, implementing the principle of leaving no one behind.

Moreover, if at the creation of the UN consultations were organized with approximately 240 NGOs, today 6,494 NGOs have consultative status. In 2023 alone, the UN Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations, having examined 560 NGO applications, granted such status to 214 of them.

The experts emphasized that over the past 20 years, more than 60 resolutions of the UN General Assembly, as well as international treaties, have been adopted aimed at assisting states in creating an inclusive and open society, recognizing the role and providing civil society with the opportunity to actively participate in sustainable development, creating favorable political , organizational, legal and other conditions for their free development and activity.

The world is witnessing a growing trend in the contribution of the third sector to economic development and solving pressing problems in the social, humanitarian, environmental and other spheres. Over the past 4 years, the contribution of the third sector to the development of the economy and GDP in some countries of the world has increased by 2-2.5 times, in particular in Canada this figure reached 8.1% of GDP, in France  4.7%, Brazil  4.4%. The growth rate of employment in the non-profit sector also significantly outpaced the growth rate of employment in the economy (twice in some countries) as a whole. Today, NGOs are also actively involved in solving pressing issues of sustainable development in various sectors, including education, health, poverty eradication, human rights and gender equality, and many others.

In addition, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of India to Uzbekistan M. Prabhat outlined Indias experience in developing cooperation with civil society in implementing tasks and monitoring the achievement of national SDGs, incl. in the development of Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs).

In particular, the 2020 VNR reflected a whole of society paradigm by incorporating ideas from more than 1,000 vulnerable civil society institutions that fully contributed to the Leaving No One Behind: Community Voices section. It noted that thanks to economic growth and civil society initiatives for social inclusion, India was able to reduce multidimensional poverty by almost half, from 24.85% in 2016 to 14.96% in 2021, indicating that 135 million people have escaped multidimensional poverty.

It was also possible to improve the level of education, actively expand the capabilities of basic infrastructure, preserve rich biological diversity, and establish partnerships for sustainable development.

The head of the Department of Politics, Press and Information of the Delegation of the European Union, M. Kacerauskis, emphasized that all over the world, civil institutions are participating in the implementation of reforms, calling governments to account. They contribute through their participation to the search for solutions to which global problems play an important role, in particular, in providing assistance to people with disabilities, forming an inclusive society, as well as realizing their rights and freedoms in the sphere of participation in the management of the affairs of society and the state.

According to him, Uzbekistans ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is a huge achievement, indicating the countrys policy in ensuring the dignity, rights and freedoms of people, especially people with disabilities. This step accelerates achievement of the SDGs. At the same time, the discussion of the implementation of the Convention is held on a platform in which not only government bodies, but also non-governmental organizations participate. Based on the results of the discussion, regulations are adopted based on relevant proposals and recommendations. These legislative acts are devoted to issues of expanding opportunities for the use of vehicles and computer technologies, which are currently relevant for persons with disabilities. These issues are also relevant for the EU, where approximately 7-8 million people with disabilities live.

Participants of the international Forum positively assessed the experience of Uzbekistan, the activities of over 600 non-governmental non-profit organizations in the country involved in protecting the dignity and rights of people with disabilities, ensuring their independence, freedom of choice, not allowing them to be discriminated against on the basis of disability, including in the protection of children with disabilities and the right to maintain one's individuality. Particularly noted were the efforts of representatives of NGOs to monitor and implement the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, their wide involvement in the process of not only ratifying UN conventions in the field of human rights, but also in the process of ensuring their implementation.

Thus, the representative of the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) O. Dutinchem noted the exceptional importance of expanding the participation of people with disabilities and civil society institutions in achieving the SDGs in Uzbekistan. As development partners, the German Government recognizes the need for inclusive development policies as a precondition for ensuring that no one is left behind. One of the notable achievements of Uzbek-German cooperation is the attraction of German investment in improving social protection in Uzbekistan, increasing inclusiveness and expanding social services for vulnerable groups of the population. It is inclusion and equal participation that are the fundamental principles of social development. The guideline for this is the National Strategy for Social Protection of the Population and, of course, the Uzbekistan 2030 Strategy.

Expert of the International Organization for Migration S. Brestovitsky especially noted the contribution of civil society in achieving the SDGs by promoting safe, orderly and legal migration. Analyzing the New York Declaration on Refugees and Migrants of September 19, 2016, which is used as an international legal instrument for achieving the SDGs in this area, he emphasized the role of civil society in the social integration of migrants into the destination society, improving the well-being of migrants, and also in determining the best ways to solve problems associated with international migration and realize the opportunities that it opens up. Indeed, in every region of the world, civil society is a key partner in meeting the needs of refugees.

Participants at the international conference gave many more examples of how civil society can contribute to progress and actively participate in the implementation of many SDGs. They emphasized the importance of leveraging these efforts in the current phase of accelerating SDGs. Because responsibility for their achievement lies with everyone, and not just with states and the UN, since many problems of our time can only be solved with the participation and broad involvement of citizens and civil institutions.

Fourth. The international conference was held in the context of significantly strengthening cooperation between Uzbekistan and the UN, as well as increasing the relevance of the SDGs for the whole world.

Participants in the international conference noted in their speeches, in particular, that over the past 7 years:

firstly, an unprecedentedly high level of cooperation between Uzbekistan and the UN has been achieved. Today, about 140 joint programs and projects are being successfully implemented;

secondly, Uzbekistan was elected a member of a number of authoritative UN structures and actively participates in their activities.

As a member of the UN Human Rights Council, Uzbekistan has put forward over 30 initiatives on a global, regional and national scale to ensure human rights and freedoms. The adoption of 7 resolutions of the UN General Assembly on the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan Sh.M. Mirziyoyev received special recognition from the international community.

In this context, the main event of the international conference was the discussion of the next initiative of the head of state, incl. draft resolution of the UN General Assembly On expanding participation and strengthening the role of civil society in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.

According to the general opinion of the participants of the international conference, best international experience shows that close cooperation between governmental and non-governmental organizations is the key to success in achieving Agenda 2030.

In this context, the proposed draft resolution of the UN General Assembly covers two of the most important patterns of today's world development:

on the one hand, ensuring sustainable development based on ensuring human rights and freedoms, creating conditions for increasing and realizing its potential, as well as economic, social and environmental progress on this basis;

and on the other hand, the involvement of citizens and civil society in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals defined by the 2030 Agenda and the implementation of their objectives. Indeed, today the community of non-governmental organizations represents a global network that should be involved in the work to achieve common goals in the field of sustainable development, empowered and their role strengthened.

Considering the draft resolution of the UN General Assembly, experts noted that its developers took into account many problems that exist in various countries of the world in the field of forming civil society and supporting its institutions. In particular, attention is drawn to the fact that in many countries there is a lack of constructive dialogue between the government and civil society organizations on achieving the SDGs, their weak involvement in the processes of developing national development plans, insufficient level of funding for their activities, as well as the lack of active effective participation of non-governmental organizations in monitoring the implementation of state obligations in this area, etc.

In this regard, it is important that the draft UNGA resolution emphasizes the importance of institutions such as social partnership and public control for achieving the goals and objectives of Agenda 2030, as well as further strengthening the global partnership for sustainable development. The importance of supporting existing mechanisms of international, regional and bilateral cooperation between government agencies and non-governmental organizations was emphasized, as well as the valuable contribution that civil society institutions make to promoting sustainable development thanks to their long-term and diverse experience, special knowledge and potential, especially in the field of analysis and exchange information and knowledge, developing dialogue and supporting sustainable development processes.

National and international experts of the international forum emphasized that from the point of view of civil society, the following recommendations and proposals contained in the draft resolution are of interest:

Firstly, further expanding the participation of civil society institutions, as well as improving the dialogue with NGOs in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, incl. in the field of legislative development; secondly, stimulating and encouraging partnerships between government agencies, non-governmental organizations and the private sector. This promotes the involvement and use of the potential and resources of the entire society and state to achieve the SDGs; third, supporting civil society institutions and facilitating their involvement in the follow-up and review processes of the SDGs, especially in the preparation of voluntary national reviews. For these voluntary national reviews provide valuable lessons and help countries track progress and ensure that the SDGs are mainstreamed into national plans and policies; fourthly, the adoption of the necessary organizational and legal measures that would ensure the real participation of non-governmental organizations at all levels of decision-making and decision-making, as well as their implementation. In particular, M. Kacherauskis emphasized that in the European Union, 2 strategic directions for the development of civil society have been identified - creating a favorable environment and conditions for civil society, as well as increasing capacity and improving their activities. This is the key to effectively addressing the SDG objectives.

Fifthly, support and further development of international cooperation in the field of involving and ensuring the participation of NGOs in achieving the SDGs, increasing the role and place of civil society in this area; sixth, the development of special financing mechanisms, including SDG-based budgeting, to support the activities and expand the capacity of NGOs that contribute to the implementation of SDG targets.

In particular, the participants noted that today the Report of the UN Secretary-General dated September 18, 2023 is particularly relevant on the global agenda, including his remark that the Sustainable Development Goals need a global rescue plan, the transition of countries to the SDGs. oriented budget so that the achievement of the goals determined by states is supported by financial and necessary other resources; seventh, promoting the leading role of civil society institutions in accelerating the achievement of all 17 Sustainable Development Goals in a balanced and integrated manner, reaffirming commitment to achieving sustainable development in its three dimensions - economic, social and environmental dimensions.

At the international forum, more than ten other proposals in this area contained in the draft UNGA resolution were positively assessed, and individual recommendations were made to the draft document.

They expressed confidence that their broad discussion, as well as the adoption of the draft resolution On expanding participation and strengthening the role of civil society in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals will help raise the processes of sustainable national, regional and global development, appropriate support and assistance to organizations to a qualitatively new level civil society on the ground. In turn, civil society, with its experience, expertise and capacity, will continue to play an important role and make a worthy contribution to achieving the SDGs. For, only through common aspirations and joint efforts can lasting peace and prosperity be achieved. Today, more than ever, we need mutual trust, solidarity and cooperation, concluded the forum participants.

These proposals and the draft resolution of the UN General Assembly are also expected to be considered during the II International Global Forum Interparliamentary Cooperation in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. This indicates that this latest initiative of the President of Uzbekistan remains the focus of attention of the international community.

[Mr. Akmal Saidov is the First Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis (parliament) of Uzbekistan]
It is no coincidence that Fergana, which has captivated people from around the world since ancient times, is often referred to as a pearl. Located on the Great Silk Road, our region has been a hub for trade, economic, cultural, and educational development for centuries, making significant contributions to world civilization.

This land is prominent all over the world by its great scholars, scientists, poets, and personalities in the fields of science and technology. We are proud that it was the birthplace of such great people as Ahmad Al-Ferghani, Burhaniddin Al-Marghinani, and Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur.

Since our country achieved independence, the Ferghana region has experienced unprecedented development and transformed into one of the most beautiful and modern cities. With its captivating nature, historical monuments, and unique culture, it has become a tourist center that attracts visitors from around the world.

The cities like Kokand and Margilan have gained international recognition. Its no wonder that the World Festival of Craftsmen was held in the historic city of Kokand, earning it the title the city of the World craftsmen, and Margilan has been acknowledged as the city of the World silk and ikat craftsmen.

The Fergana region boasts a wealth of ancient heritage sites and monuments that speak volumes about our history. Tourists from all over the world visit historical monuments such as Khudoyorkhons horde", Jome mosque, Dahmai shohon, Norbotabiy, Miyon Hazrat, Pursiddik, Kaptari mozor, and shrines as Shohimardon, Ahmad Al-Ferghan, Burkhoniddin Al-Marghinani, and the ecotourism center Mehrigiyo with great interest and admiration.

Our region is rapidly developing in terms of higher education, schools, cultural institutions, and public services. Housing construction is also a priority in the region. Ecocity in the territory of Ferghana city and Uzbekistan massif in the centers of the districts with residential complexes has been built. Our industrial and agricultural products, manufactured to world standards, are exported to numerous countries, and there is substantial interest from foreign investors to do business in Fergana. We have a large number of enterprises that have been established at the expense of foreign investment are successfully operating.

In the past period of 2023, the volume of foreign direct investment was 436.6 million dollars. This indicator is in the second place among the regions of the Republic after the city of Tashkent. The main part of the introduced foreign investment was directed to the implementation of projects in the fields of textile, oil and gas, production of building materials, and service. Today, the number of countries investing in the Ferghana region has reached 44, and the enterprises invested are 180. There are 6 joint ventures with Indian participation in our region. We are also establishing a new investment project aiming at further enhancing the cooperation with India.

In January-September of this year, the export volume of the region was 524 million US dollars, and the import volume was 964 million dollars. Ferghana has established trade relations with 77 countries of the world, the foreign trade turnover is 1 billion 488 million US dollars.

Our foreign trade turnover with India is steadily increasing, with exports including machinery, equipment, food, and services to India, and imports of machinery, equipment, chemical and oil products, ceramics, paper, toys, various knitwear and textile products. We are eager to expand friendly cooperation with India in all areas.

Our cultural ties with India trace back to ancient times. India is an ancient and legendary country. There are few people in Uzbekistan that have not read Rabindranath Tagores works and not watched Mahabharat and our hope is that the friendship, cooperation, and shared values will continue to prosper.

I encourage Indian citizens to visit and experience the charm of Fergana, the pearl of Central Asia.




Photo courtesy: UNI

New Delhi/IBNS: A new North-South debate was triggered on Sunday after the country's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) swept the Hindi heartland comprising Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh while primary opposition force Congress pulled off a stunning victory in Telangana.

Incidentally, Congress had dislodged BJP from power in another south Indian state, Karnataka, earlier this year.

The new political equation in the Hindi heartland has prompted some on social media to suggest people in North India vote allegedly for religion while in the South, issues are prioritised.

The debate was further fuelled by an X post of DMK MP DNV Senthilkumar. Later, he apologised following a backlash.

Shutting down the debate in an X post loaded with emoticons, Prime Minister Narendra Modi came down heavily upon the Opposition over the North-South debate.

The Prime Minister wrote, "May they be happy with their arrogance, lies, pessimism and ignorance. But.. Beware of their divisive agenda.

"An old habit of 70 years cant go away so easily. Also, such is the wisdom of the people that they have to be prepared for many more meltdowns ahead."

May they be happy with their arrogance, lies, pessimism and ignorance. But..



    Beware of their divisive agenda. An old habit of 70 years cant go away so easily.    



Also, such is the wisdom of the people that they have to be prepared for many more meltdowns https://t.co/N3jc3eSgMB  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 5, 2023

The assembly polls in these states were touted as a semi-final contest ahead of the general elections in less than six months.

On the BJPs impressive performance in the Assembly elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the results indicate that "Indians are firmly with politics of good governance."

As party workers celebrated bursting crackers, beating drums and distributing sweets, he said the efforts to divide people on the basis of caste did not work. Those abusing the investigating agencies have been rejected too, he said.

Despite a less-than-stellar performance in Telangana, the BJP managed to inflict significant damage in the closely watched Kamareddy Assembly constituency.
Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

Jammu: A hoax bomb call to a private school on Wednesday triggered panic in the city area here.

Police sources said that the management of a private school situated in the heart of a city this morning received a hoax bomb threat call.

"On getting information from the school authorities, the police team and a bomb disposal squad rushed to the spot," they said.

Sources added that the BDS searched the school and did not find anything.

"The hoax call triggered panic among the school staff and the nearby locality," sources added.

They said that the situation is normal while the police team is deployed outside the school.

(With UNI inputs)
Amit Shah speaking in the LS/ courtesy: BJP X page

New Delhi/IBNS: The Lok Sabha Wednesday passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 & The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2023 after an intense debate in the house.

Replying to the discussion on the Bill, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2023 will provide justice to those who were betrayed, insulted and ignored for 70 long years.

"The Bill that I have brought here pertains to bringing justice and providing rights to those against whom injustice was done, who were insulted, and those who were ignored," he said.

Talking about the merit of the Bill, two seats will be reserved for Kashmiri migrant community members, and one seat for people displaced from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. For the first time, 9 seats will be reserved for SC/ST communities.

Shah said that earlier there were 37 seats in Jammu while now there are 43 and 47 in Kashmir. "In Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK), 24 seats have been reserved since PoK is ours," he said.

Speaking in the Lok Sabha on two landmark bills related to the Jammu and Kashmir. https://t.co/w4PqoAsiZX  Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 6, 2023

The Home Minister said: "Pakistan attacked Kashmir in 1947 in which around 31,789 families were displaced...10,065 families were displaced during the wars of 1965 and 1971."

"41,844 families were displaced during these three wars of 1947, 1965, and 1969. This bill is an attempt to give rights and representation to those people" he added.

Shah said that the Bill also provides rights and representation to Kashmiri Pandits who were displayed within their own country.

According to today's figures, 46,631 families and 1,57,967 people were displaced within their own country and this bill is to give them rights and representation, he said.

On the issue of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, Shah said, "Under the Narendra Modi government, the total incidents of terrorism registered have been around 2,000, it marks a 70% reduction in the incidents of terrorism."

"During the 1994-2004 period, a total of 40,164 incidents of terrorism were registered," he said in the house.

He also informed that during the 2004-2014 period, a total of 7,217 incidents of terrorism took place.

The Home Minister said that since the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir saw an unprecedented transformation under the Modi-led government.

Shah added that the root cause of separatism, the root cause of terrorism was nothing but Article 370.

He said, "Those who say what happened after the removal of Article 370?... On August 5-6, 2019, their voices, which were not heard for years, were heard by PM Modi and today they are getting their rights."

Slamming Congress and first Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru, the Minister said Jammu and Kashmir suffered due to two blunders committed by the former, first announcing a ceasefire and then taking the Kashmir issue to the United Nations.

He said that had Jawaharlal Nehru taken the right steps, PoK would have been part of India now.

[With UNI inputs]
In image rescue op after Cyclone Michaung wrecks havoc in Chennai/ courtesy: UNI

Chennai/IBNS: The toll in rain-related incidents from Cyclone Michaung in Chennai city rose to 15, with seven more deaths reported during the last 24 hours, a police release said.

More than 5,000 people have been rescued so far from cyclone-hit areas in the city and shifted to relief centres.

Apart from this, 10 more people were admitted to various hospitals after they suffered injuries in various incidents of drowning and electrocution across the city during the period.

A total of 11 subways in the city remained shut for the third successive day due to water logging.

According to the release, since Monday, a total 1,419 distress calls have been received on the requirement of rescue measures, food, water, shelter, vehicle, transport, and medical assistance at GCP Control Rooms and all the calls were attended by the GCP Team/concerned jurisdiction officers promptly and grievances redressed.

Rescue operations are being conducted in suburban areas.

The Tamil Nadu government has declared a holiday for all schools and colleges in Chennai on Wednesday as relief works in some cyclone-affected areas are continuing.

This was the fourth successive day the government declared a holiday.

An official release on Wednesday said, given the heavy rains caused by Cyclone Michaung, the state government had declared a holiday for all educational institutionsfor three days from December four to six.

Since the relief works in Cyclone-induced flood areas are continuing, all schools and colleges in Chennai will remain closed tomorrow in the interest of the studentcommunity, it said.
Photo courtesy: UNI

New Delhi/IBNS/UNI: English professor and one of the Bhima Koregaon case accused Shoma Sen, on Wednesday desperately pleaded to the Supreme Court for granting immediate interim bail on grounds of her deteriorating health.

Senior Supreme Court lawyer, Anand Grover, appearing for Shoma, sought bail on the ground that "her health is deteriorating day by day" and thereby she should be enlarged on interim bail immediately.

Sen has been an undertrial prisoner since June 6, 2018, and is lodged at the Byculla jail in Mumbai.

"Why should she (Shoma) be prejudiced for five and a half years? It's a travesty of justice. If the KA Najeeb judgement of this court is to be taken into account, then she should be granted immediate bail by the Court," Grover said and desperately sought bail for Shoma.

She is an accused in the 2018 Bhima KoregaonElgar Parishad Maoist links and criminal conspiracy case along with 14 other activists and academics.

She is charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) (UAPA) Act.

A two-judge bench of the apex court, headed by Justice Aniruddha Bose and Augustine George Masih, was hearing the matter, and also wanted to know more about the case and fixed the matter for further hearing on Thursday.

He also argued that the evidence is of weak probative value, and the only thing against Shoma in the supplementary chargesheet was the same, i.e., criminal conspiracy to instigate the violence, and it was before the high court when it directed a remand.

This chargesheet was filed because other people were arrested. This was before the high court, and there was no reason to not look at it, Grover said.

"There was barely anything (against Shoma), and the same thing is being repeated ad nauseam, conspiracy, but what is the conspiracy, no one knows," Grover said.

All the documents relied upon by the NIA are from the devices belonging to Rona Wilson and Surendra Gadling. Nothing from Shoma's, Grover told the Apex Court.

The Additional Solicitor General (ASG) KM Nataraj, senior law officer appearing for the NIA (National Investigation Agency) which is the probe agency in the case, vehemently opposed the bail of Shoma today on the ground that her involvement in the crime could not be ruled out.

Nataraj had told the court that Sens plea only enumerates general ailments without any imminent danger to her life.

He had said it was becoming a routine exercise where everyone is asking for medical bail in any case
Image by Avishek Mitra/IBNS

Kolkata/IBNS: Australian filmmakers Bruce Beresford and Rolf de Heer talked about their country's collaboration with India on the second day of the 29th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) here on Wednesday.

Emphasised by Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese and Narendra Modi, this agreement not only broadens audience reach for both Indian and Australian producers but also facilitates audiences connections with fresh narratives.

The co-production agreements highlights include access to government funding support including grants, subsidies and tax concessions. This collaboration signifies a significant chapter for the Australian and Indian film industries.

Bruce Beresford (R) | Image by Avishek Mitra/IBNS

Award-winning director, Bruce Beresford says, "Australian cinema is a treasure trove of diverse narratives, and the Kolkata International Film Festival provides a global stage for audiences to immerse themselves in storytelling.

"The warmth and passion of Indian audiences, coupled with the universal language of cinema, create a unique connection. Im thrilled to share the magic of Australian films with a vibrant community that truly appreciates the art of storytelling."

Acclaimed Australian filmmaker and screenwriter, Rolf de Heer says, "Film is a universal language, which has the power to transcend boundaries and connect people from different parts of the world. The Kolkata International Film Festival is a celebration of this shared language, where films from many different countries can find a home in the hearts of diverse audiences.

"It is a pleasure for me that a wide variety of Australian storytelling has been brought to Kolkata; I believe their differences will be engaged with and embraced."

Australia is the special focus country in the 29th edition of KIFF, which was inaugurated on Tuesday.

Rolf de Heer (C) | Image by Avishek Mitra/IBNS

The festival will showcase a selection of Australian cinema in three categories, including contemporary gems like The Dry, Sweet As, and Shayda; horror film enthusiasts can look forward to terrifying titles like Wolf Creek, Sissy, Picnic at Hanging Rock and 100 Bloody Acres.

The diverse film lineup encapsulates the spirit of collaboration which the co-Production agreement will foster and serves as a testament to the enduring ties between Australia and India in the realm of cinema.

The festival will run till December 12.
Women bake bread surrounded by destroyed buildings in Khan Yunis, Gaza during the recent humanitarian pause. Photo Courtesy: UNRWA/Ashraf Amra

A top UN official has said over 600,000 people are under evacuation orders in southern Gaza amid the ongoing clash between Israel and Hamas members.

"Southern #Gaza over 600,000 people are under evacuation orders. Nearly half of them were already forced to leave their homes previously," Philippe Lazzarini posted on X.

 Southern #Gaza over 600,000 people are under evacuation orders. Nearly half of them were already forced to leave their homes previously.



There is nowhere to go as shelters, including @UNRWA, are beyond & over their capacity.  Philippe Lazzarini (@UNLazzarini) December 5, 2023

"There is nowhere to go as shelters, including @UNRWA, are beyond & over their capacity," he said.

The situation for Gazans is getting worse by the hour, the UN health agency WHO said on Tuesday (December 5, 2023), after some of the heaviest Israeli shelling in the enclave since Hamas militants massacred some 1,200 people in southern Israel and took around 240 hostages on 7 October.

Speaking from the southern city of Rafah, Dr. Rick Peeperkorn, World Health Organization (WHO) Representative on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, described further bloodshed after the resumption of Israeli bombing last Friday.

The situation is getting worse by the hour,. Peeperkorn told journalists in Geneva via video link. I meantheres intensified bombing going on all around and including here in the southern areas, Khan Younis and even in Rafah.

The WHO medic noted that in the last couple of days there had also been a vastly increasing number of internally displaced people travelling from the Middle area and even now the southern areas, fearing for their lives.

Echoing those concerns, UN Childrens Fund spokesperson James Elder cited international humanitarian law that obliges militaries to take all feasible measures to protect civilians. It was not acceptable to unilaterally declare that they should go to so-called safe zones, he insisted, when these were in fact sidewalks or half-built buildings without water, shelter or sanitation.

Its not a safe zone if its only free from bombardment, as some zones have not been, Elder said.

8 in 10 Gazans now homeless

According to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNWRA, nearly 1.9 million people  more than 85 per cent of the population in Gaza - have been displaced across the Strip since 7 October.

Almost 1.2 million internally displaced persons have found shelter in 156 UNRWA installations across all five governorates of the Gaza Strip, including the North and Gaza City, the UN agency said.

It also confirmed that at least 19 additional colleagues had been killed during airstrikes, bringing the total to 130 since 7 October. We are also in danger as we walk, UNWRA said, quoting one of its counsellors, named only as Jehan. Our lives are at a standstillThere is the smell of death here. But were determined to live.
Humanitarian aid is delivered to UNRWA shelters in the northern Gaza Strip. Photo Courtesy: UNRWA

The Israeli government on Wednesday cancelled the visa for UNs humanitarian coordinator in the Palestinian territories Lynn Hastings after she refused to speak against Hamas.

"We will no longer be silent in the face of the bias of the UN! I decided to revoke the residence visa to Israel of the UN "humanitarian" coordinator Lynn Hastings," Israel Foreign Minister Eli Cohen posted on X.

We will no longer be silent in the face of the bias of the UN!



I decided to revoke the residence visa to Israel of the UN "humanitarian" coordinator Lynn Hastings.



Someone who did not condemn Hamas for the brutal massacre of 1,200 Israelis, for the kidnapping of babies and the    | Eli Cohen (@elicoh1) December 5, 2023

He further said: "Someone who did not condemn Hamas for the brutal massacre of 1,200 Israelis, for the kidnapping of babies and the elderly and for the horrific acts of abuse and rape, and for using the residents of Gaza as human shields, but instead condemns Israel, a democratic country that protects its citizens, cannot serve in the UN and cannot enter Israel!"

A top UN official has said over 600,000 people are under evacuation orders in southern Gaza amid the ongoing clash between Israel and Hamas members.

"Southern #Gaza over 600,000 people are under evacuation orders. Nearly half of them were already forced to leave their homes previously," Philippe Lazzarini posted on X.

"There is nowhere to go as shelters, including @UNRWA, are beyond & over their capacity," he said.

The situation for Gazans is getting worse by the hour, the UN health agency WHO said on Tuesday (December 5, 2023), after some of the heaviest Israeli shelling in the enclave since Hamas militants massacred some 1,200 people in southern Israel and took around 240 hostages on 7 October.

Speaking from the southern city of Rafah, Dr. Rick Peeperkorn, World Health Organization (WHO) Representative on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, described further bloodshed after the resumption of Israeli bombing last Friday.

The situation is getting worse by the hour,. Peeperkorn told journalists in Geneva via video link. I meantheres intensified bombing going on all around and including here in the southern areas, Khan Younis and even in Rafah.

The WHO medic noted that in the last couple of days there had also been a vastly increasing number of internally displaced people travelling from the Middle area and even now the southern areas, fearing for their lives.

Echoing those concerns, UN Childrens Fund spokesperson James Elder cited international humanitarian law that obliges militaries to take all feasible measures to protect civilians. It was not acceptable to unilaterally declare that they should go to so-called safe zones, he insisted, when these were in fact sidewalks or half-built buildings without water, shelter or sanitation.

Its not a safe zone if its only free from bombardment, as some zones have not been, Elder said.

8 in 10 Gazans now homeless

According to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNWRA, nearly 1.9 million people  more than 85 per cent of the population in Gaza - have been displaced across the Strip since 7 October.

Almost 1.2 million internally displaced persons have found shelter in 156 UNRWA installations across all five governorates of the Gaza Strip, including the North and Gaza City, the UN agency said.

It also confirmed that at least 19 additional colleagues had been killed during airstrikes, bringing the total to 130 since 7 October. We are also in danger as we walk, UNWRA said, quoting one of its counsellors, named only as Jehan. Our lives are at a standstillThere is the smell of death here. But were determined to live.
In a somber turn of events, a 70-year-old Sikh pilgrim, identified as Preetam Singh, breathed his last in Lahore, reportedly succumbing to a cardiac arrest, as confirmed by an official statement on Sunday.

The unfortunate incident unfolded on Saturday evening when Singh, amid the spirited celebrations of Guru Nanak Devs birth anniversary, began experiencing chest pain. He was promptly transported to the Punjab Institute of Cardiology in Lahore. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, Singhs life could not be saved, leaving the Sikh community in mourning.

An official from the Evacuee Trust Property Board, responsible for overseeing the concerns of minority holy places, provided details surrounding the heart-wrenching incident. The official expressed that Singhs demise was attributed to a cardiac arrest, underscoring the unpredictability and gravity of health emergencies.

The Evacuee Trust Property Board further conveyed that the body of the deceased Sikh pilgrim was handed over to the Border Security Force (BSF) at the Wagah border. The emotional moment was marked by the presence of Singhs grieving wife, adding a poignant layer to the already sorrowful episode.

The incident occurred against the backdrop of ongoing festivities related to Guru Nanak Devs birth anniversary, drawing over 2,500 Indian Sikhs to Pakistan. The atmosphere, initially charged with celebration, is now tinged with a sense of loss as the community grapples with the sudden departure of one of its members.

The authorities and organizers of the event are extending their condolences to the family of Preetam Singh and assuring all necessary support during this challenging time. The news of his passing has cast a shadow over the otherwise joyous commemoration, prompting reflection on the fragility of life even amidst moments of collective jubilation.

As the Sikh community mourns the loss of a fellow pilgrim, the incident serves as a poignant reminder of the need for prompt and accessible medical care during religious festivities that draw large congregations. The resilience and solidarity of the community are now tested as they come together to remember and honour Preetam Singh, emphasizing the sanctity of life in the midst of cultural and religious celebrations.

(Text and photo Courtesy: Khalsavox.com)
Photo Courtesy: Pixabay

Hundreds of farmers from the tail-end areas of Aab-i-Hayyat and 1-L canals in Pakistan demonstrated outside the irrigation senior engineer office over the non-availability of irrigation water on Monday.

They protested after the irrigation chief engineer arrived.

Among the leaders present were Pakistan Saraiki Party (Kissan Wing) President Sardar Abdul Qayyum Shakir, numbardars Manzoor Mohsin and Chaudhry Muhammad Afzal, reported Dawn News.

The protesters told the Pakistani newspaper that the water scarcity in Aab-e-Hayyat and 1-L canals had resulted in economic crisis and rendered the meadows of Cholistan barren.

They urged the government to retrieve these meadows from the contractor and allocate the land to inhabitants instead of favouring corporate farming.


Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

Locals blocked the Peshawar-Bajaur highway for over three hours in front of the Ghalanai grid station in Pakistan's Mohmand district against excessive power cuts, media reports said.

The protesters, who were carrying black flags, chanted slogans against the Tribal Electric Supply Company (Tesco) and the district administration, and demanded an end to the excessive and unjust loadshedding, reported Dawn News.

A large number of passengers were stranded due to the protest.

On the occasion, members of Haq Do Movement, including Abdul Majeed, Safdar Khan, Abdul Hameed and others, said prolonged loadshedding had paralysed the entire district, reported Dawn News.

The road blockade ended after additional assistant commissioners Sikandar Khan and Usman Hamza assured them that the residents would be supplied electricity for three hours from each feeder under an agreement reached a year ago.


Photo Courtesy: Pixabay

Unpaid employees recently locked up offices of Peshawar metropolitan in Pakistan government on Monday.

The protesters claimed their November salaries were not paid.

Totalling over 2,000, they even went on a strike after locking offices and announced they would resume work only after the salary was paid, reported Dawn News.

The protest call was given by United Municipal Workers Union of the metropolitan government.

The employees alleged that Peshawar mayor Zubair Ali had refused to sign their pay bill as he was unhappy over the posting of some senior officials by the provincial government to the metropolitan government without his consent, the newspaper reported.

The local government department recently reshuffled several officials of Peshawars metropolitan government, including director-general, director (east), director (finance), director (administration and human resource), director (terminals) and director (estate), reported Dawn News.

The sources told the Pakistani newspaper that the reshuffle didnt sit well with the mayor, who even resisted it a lot insisting that those postings and transfers were made on the affiliation of the relevant officials with Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf-Parliamentarians chairman and former chief minister Pervez Khattak.

Union president Malik Mohammad Naveed Awan told Dawn News that the mayor had refused to deal with official matters forwarded to him by the director-general over the latters posting without the formers consultation.

He added that the mayor also didnt sign and process the file for the payment of salary to the employees of the metropolitan government.

We [union] wont allow anyone to work until the payment of salary to them is made, he said.
Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

Libyan officials have dismantled an underground gold mining network which involved nationals from China, Chad, and Niger, media reports said.

The operation of the mining network was spearheaded by a Libyan.

The operation of the network was conducted in stark violation of regulations, without the knowledge or approval of local authorities.

During the decisive crackdown, five individuals were arrested, including the Libyan leader of the operation and four foreign nationals. The mining sites, characterized by shallow rectangular pools reminiscent of Olympic swimming pools, revealed a trove of black and gold metal nuggets and ingots, reported BNN Network.
The chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has raised concern over the growing prevalence of Nigerian youth involvement in cybercrime.

According to him, it is alarming that seven out of ten students in Nigeria are now engaging in cybercrime.

Speaking during a courtesy visit from Daar Communication PLC, Olukoyede called upon the media to play a crucial role in enlightening the youth about the detrimental consequences of such activities.

READ ALSO: No One Is Exempted From Our Investigations, Ex-Governors Inclusive  EFCC

We are looking towards Daar Communications to enlighten our youths on the evils of cyber crimes. It is worrisome that seven out of ten students today are involved in cyber crimes, Olukoyede said.

These are the youths we are preparing to be leaders of tomorrow. The media should not relent in enlightening them on the evils of such criminal practices, he added.

While describing the practice as a menace and cankerworm in the society, Olukoyede called for a wider media enlightenment of the youth across the country on the effects of indulgence in internet fraud.
Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs, says Nigeria will soon have the largest electric mass transit fleet in Africa.

The Minister made this known at the ongoing 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Dubai.

Tuggar, according to a statement on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir, underscored the urgent need for concerted global action to address the challenges of climate change.

He said Nigeria is leading the fight against climate change in Africa by setting ambitious and realistic goals.

According to him, the country aims to have the largest electric mass transit fleet in Africa and increase electric buses from 100 to 1,000.

Nigeria has ratified its commitments through a Climate Change Act and a National Council on Climate Change (NCCC).

Through these, Nigeria set ambitious, albeit realistic, goals, and I am proud to state that we have hit the ground running, transforming our commitments into tangible climate action, he said.

While emphasising the critical role of collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility in combating the escalating climate crisis, he said: The initiative will reduce emissions and indicate my administrations commitment to catalysing the market for green project deployments, job creation, and industrialisation across critical sectors.

READ ALSO: Nigerian Air Force Puts Up Presidential Aircraft For Sale

Acknowledging the severity of the climate emergency, Tuggar highlighted the impact of climate change on vulnerable communities and ecosystems across the globe.

He posited that it was important to uphold the principles outlined in the Paris Agreement, and the need for all nations to commit to ambitious and transparent climate targets.

Tuggar also reaffirmed the commitment of Nigeria to its nationally determined contributions, underscoring the nations dedication to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.

The minister said the country is willing to foster international cooperation, encourage innovation, and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.

He therefore called upon the international community to transcend political differences and work collaboratively towards meaningful and immediate climate solutions.

Tuggar added that there was a need for financial commitments from developed nations to assist developing countries in their transition to low-carbon economies.
The Government of Benin Republic, on Tuesday, has been ordered to pay Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Igboho, 20 million CFA.

The Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, sitting in Abuja ruled that the sum was compensation for violating Igbohos fundamental rights and unlawful detention.

The court gave the order in a unanimous judgement delivered by Justices Gberi-Be Ouattara, Sengu M. Koroma and Ricardo Claudio Monteiro Goncalves, in the matter, marked: ECW/CCJ/APP/15/22, Chief Sunday Adeyemo vs. Republic of Benin.

According to the court, Benin Republic should comply with the order within three months and report back to the court with evidence of payment.

Recall that Igboho was arrested in Cotonou while trying to depart the country for Germany in 2021.

READ MORE: Igboho Slams Gumi For Faulting Tinubus Appointments

This was after he escaped from Nigeria and was declared wanted by the Department of State Services (DSS) following a raid on his Ibadan residence.

An event which saw some of his aides killed, while several others were arrested by the secret police.

He was recently released from protective custody in Cotonou where he has been over a year ago, having fulfilled all the conditions attached to his bail.
The Presidency has slammed the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, over his statement on the budgetary provision of N15.5 billion for the completion of the Vice Presidents residence.

Recall that N15.5 billion was earmarked in the 2024 budget proposal for the renovation of the Vice Presidents official residence.

However, Obi condemned and described the development as reckless and insensitive.

Reacting to the former Anambra Governors statement, the presidency insisted that he was attempting to whip up public sentiments against the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.

Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity in the Office of the Vice President, stated this via a statement on Tuesday.

According to him, the project did not originate from Tinubus administration, adding that it was initiated by the Goodluck Jonathan administration.

READ ALSO: We Need Sacrificial Leaders, Not Reckless, Insensitive Ones  Obi Faults N15bn Allocation For VPs Residence

Giving the reactions and invocations generated by Mr. Obis comments, however, it is necessary, for the sake of history, to clarify that the proposed plan for the construction of the Vice Presidents official residence, for which a budgetary allocation was made in the 2024 budget by the FCT Administration, was awarded by the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan. It was not originated by the present administration. This, Mr. Obi knows but chose to play dumb, all in a bid to inflame a targeted group of Nigerians and, as usual, score cheap political goals, accolades and praises.

The project, which was reinitiated in 2010 and was funded by the Jonathan administration, was abandoned. Appalled by the sorry state of the uncompleted building that has now been overtaken by weeds and reptiles over a decade after construction started about 13 years ago, the current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, felt it would be a waste to allow such a project started with public funds to continue to lie fallow. Thus, in his wisdom and without the prompting of the Vice President, decided to resuscitate the building.

We invite more cerebral Nigerians to crosscheck properly, which should be considered a waste between Obis tantrums because the project has attracted governments attention, given the decision by the current administration to complete vital abandoned projects. What is more wasteful and reckless than abandoning an edifice to rot and depreciate, despite the amount that has been sunk into it over the years? Nwokocha queried.
Light issues on sections of Kelly Drive along the Schuylkill River Trail are leaving travelers in the dark.

Between Hunting Park Avenue and Reservoir Drive and Fountain Green Drive and Brewery Hill Drive, some lights have been reported off due to an electrical overload in the system, said a spokesperson for the streets department.

The department became aware of the issue last week, and has since been working on resolving it, the spokesperson said. Workers have made repairs and reset the electrical breaker, but it trips after some time, again putting the lights out.

Workers are trying to identify the reason for the electrical fault in the system, but a timeline hasnt yet been shared for how long it could take to repair the issue.

Some runners told NBC Philadelphia last week they considered cutting their runs short because of the issue.

The streets department typically finds out about outages thanks to routine inspections and reports from 311, said the spokesperson. This year, around 12,000 tips were sent to the 311 service about lights being out, according to city open data.

The news of the outage comes as the city has recently invested in updating its lighting system. In August, the city in partnership with the Philadelphia Energy Authority began construction on a project intended to replace and connect about 130,000 streetlights with more energy efficient LED lights that will be able to be controlled remotely. The project is intended to reduce energy used by streetlights by over 50%, is estimated to cost $91.2M, and will take two years to complete construction on.
Benjamin Cotton took over as chief investment officer of PSERS, the Pennsylvania school pension system, in early 2023. A Gulf War veteran, he took finance courses and met his wife at the U.S. base in Okinawa, became an auditor at Ford, and helped turn around a UAW health plan after the 2008 financial crisis. A committee of PSERS trustees picked Cotton to head the system's 63-person investment staff and implement their revised investment policy, with a larger role for public stocks and bonds, after disappointing results from their earlier focus on private equity, hedge funds and direct investments Read more

Its a big job, managing the peoples money. Minding $70 billion for the public-school pension system PSERS, Benjamin Cotton is Pennsylvanias highest-paid state employee, collecting $525,000 in first-year salary and bonus as chief investment officer.

The more profit Cotton, his 63 staff, plus outside managers and advisers can squeeze from those invested funds, the less state and local taxpayers will eventually need to pay pensions for half a million school employees.

Hes come a long way since his days as a corporal in the Marines, fixing engines on armor-plated bulldozers plowing up minefields in the 1991 Gulf War.

Cotton took his first finance courses at the U.S. base in Okinawa, Japan. He has published articles on statistical analyses of investment returns, and last year he added a Ph.D. in education from Vanderbilt University. He was a bond analyst, headed a trading desk at Ford Motor Co., and took charge of investments for the United Auto Workers health plan.

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Last winter Cotton was picked by PSERSs sometimes-fractious trustees, including unionized teachers, school board representatives, and public officials of both parties, to boost the investment portfolio, whose returns last year ranked in the bottom 1% of large U.S. plans.

PSERS  the Pennsylvania Public School Employees Retirement System  also trailed the average for large plans over the past 10 years because it decided against investing much in surging U.S. stocks, focusing instead on private assets.

Cotton sat for questions at a diner near his Lancaster home. Here are highlights, edited for length and clarity.

What made you such a stickler on financial controls?

Ford has a very strong auditing culture. Internal controls underlay everything they do. They put me in charge of international credit audits. When you know all about your assets and your spending, you can make changes and not be surprised. You can lose a lot with weak financial controls.

At PSERS, we have a lot of blocking and tackling to get our controls to what I am used to.

Your board has five union representatives out of 15 trustees. Whats your record with labor?

In my work for Ford, I met Ron Gettelfinger, who became president of the UAW (2002-2010). He was a rock star  good negotiator, good with people. He was already working out a deal to fund the large health-care liability when the [2008] financial crisis hit.

The auto companies gave the plan IOUs (including General Motors stock) and gave them the opportunity to reorganize the plans. It was imperative; liabilities were growing fast.

They advertised for a chief investment officer. My grandfather had been a Baptist minister in Detroit. His church was all hourly autoworkers. I thought I could do this. So I applied.

How did the union people accept your shift from management to labor?

There was a little indigestion. And at first, no one thought it would work. We were really fortunate the markets moved our way after 2009. And they brought in some very experienced health-plan managers.

Better returns, better expense control, we turned it around. When we started, we had needed 9% [annual investment returns] to keep it funded. By the time I left, they only needed 5%. The last I checked it was 3.5%. At that point, you can pull back and invest more conservatively, especially with bond yields going up.

Funds like PSERS pay lower salaries than Wall Street firms. Is it tough to get good help?

We attract some great professionals. They want to serve. They may not want to work 80 hours a week at Goldman Sachs. They know they can work 65 hours in Harrisburg and still make a difference.

Are private-equity managers worth their big fees?

Investment professional are no more special than anyone else. Humility is very important in this role. The most important thing is to keep our eyes open. Thats when situations come along that we can take advantage of.

The board made a decision before I came on board to take the private and [hedge fund] allocations down. We had been over 50% in those assets. We are closer to 30% now.

Im very much skeptical about private assets. You should earn a premium for locking your money into non-traded assets, but the private-fund managers know that, and they try to price so they get the benefit. They make you think you have to be part of that whole private-equity game. They create scarcity for their own funds, so everyone wants more.

I say no. We dont have to put another $800 million into private markets, not to pace our investments.

At the same time, you want access to private investments; thats most of the economy. But no one is entitled to higher returns just because you buy some. I think the reduction the board has asked for right-sizes our investment.

PSERS used to equate risk with price volatility so private assets that never traded were considered low-risk even if they were individually risky. How will you measure risk?

Im skeptical of a lot of measurements. The analysis that has been used can oversimplify risks and artificially exaggerate likely returns. I hope we develop a better way of looking at private markets.

PSERS says it is transparent. But three years after the board posted what turned out to be exaggerated returns, a year after the final report on the matter, a law firm is still reviewing conflicting accounts.

They do put a lot of information out. But its difficult to understand what a lot of the information means. Its not like the team was trying to hide things. Sometimes staff will tell me people just dont get it. I say, No, youre not explaining it right.

Will PSERS eventually sell all its private investments and just buy index funds?

The returns would not be high enough. We would be trading one kind of risk for another. Right now the old classic portfolio of 60% stocks / 40% bonds doesnt take us where we want to go.

Some people have called on Congress to limit investment in China. Will PSERS cut back on China?

Before, the trend was toward globalization. As a result, a number of investment strategies over-allocated to China. The argument being investors would benefit as every nation joined the mainstream world economy.

That has turned on its head. Now theres a move toward what [U.S. Treasury Secretary] Janet Yellen called nearshoring of factory production, closer to home.

I was not a big fan of [heavy foreign investment] once you take into account many nations lack of transparency or basic investor rights. But at PSERS, there was a significant investment in those emerging markets. Over the long run, it has been very expensive. The board has asked me to reverse this. Soon we will no longer be overweight in that region.

One PSERS trustee, Sen. Katie Muth (D., Montgomery), has a long-running lawsuit to push the agency to make its Wall Street contracts public. Why is the agency fighting this?

You should see a move toward more transparency. But Id defer to our chief counsel on disclosure. And our private investment managers are sometimes uncomfortable with our level of disclosure as it is.

Do you think they wouldnt invest if you published all their contracts?

I think they would still do business with us.
Nicholas Shaw pleaded guilty to accidents involving death during a hearing Tuesday at the Montgomery County Courthouse. Read more

A Hatfield man who fled the scene of a fatal crash he caused last year was sentenced Tuesday to 1-to-3 years in state prison.

Nicholas Shaw, 27, pleaded guilty to accidents involving death and disorderly conduct in the death of Linford Michener, whom prosecutors say he struck while driving a work van for the North Penn School District.

Shaw entered the plea a week before he was scheduled to go to trial in the case. His attorney, Matthew Wilcov, did not immediately return a request for comment.

Michener, 83, had been walking along Oak Park Road near his property on Oct. 27, 2022, when Shaw, a groundskeeper for North Penn, swerved off the road and struck him, prosecutors said. Shaw did not stop or render aid to Michener, according to prosecutors.

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Investigators responding to a call from Micheners wife found him lying in the road, unresponsive. He was taken to Abington Lansdale Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead of blunt-force injuries.

 READ MORE: Driver charged in Center City hit-and-run that killed a mother and injured one of her children

Surveillance footage from a nearby property showed an Econoline van with a North Penn School District logo on the passenger door in the area after the crash, according to the affidavit of probable cause for Shaws arrest. Later, at a secure lot at the North Penn School District facilities, investigators found a van with damage to its hood and passenger side.

School district officials said Shaw had been using the van, the affidavit said. At the time of the crash, officials said, he was supposed to be cutting grass at Pennfield Middle School, about 1.5 miles from where Michener was struck.

Surveillance footage taken from the school districts property showed Shaw getting into the van, which had no visible damage, minutes before Michener was struck and killed, prosecutors said. Not long after, Shaw was seen driving the van back into the parking lot, with the damage investigators later observed.
For more than four hours Tuesday, members of Congress grilled  and in some cases berated  three college presidents, including the University of Pennsylvanias Liz Magill, over their handling of antisemitism on campus following Hamas Oct. 7 attack on Israel.

The 40-plus-member House Committee on Education and the Workforce peppered Magill, Harvard president Claudine Gay, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology president Sally Kornbluth  all relative newcomers to their presidencies  with questions that sometimes barely allowed for a chance to answer. In one case, U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman, (R., Wis.) cut off Gay because he said he wanted to hear from the gal from Penn, referring to Magill.

When given the chance, though, the presidents at times didnt directly answer, struggling to explain the point at which hate speech rises to the level of incitement of violence  or, when students or faculty should be disciplined for it.

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 READ MORE: Penn students who screened film on Israel face possible discipline

It is a context-dependent decision, congresswoman, Magill said when asked repeatedly if calling for the genocide of Jews violates Penns rules or code of conduct.

That is not bullying or harassment? Republican Rep. Elise M. Stefanik of New York shot back. That is the easiest question to answer yes, Ms. Magill.

If the speech becomes conduct, Magill said, it can be harassment.

Conduct, meaning committing the act of genocide? Stefanik asked. The speech is not harassment?

Repeatedly pressed, Magill answered, It can be harassment.

Meanwhile, two Penn students, including senior Eyal Yakoby, a political science and modern Middle East Studies major from Princeton  who attended the hearing  sued Penn Tuesday in federal court in Philadelphia, claiming the school had become an incubation lab for virulent- anti-Jewish hatred, harassment and discrimination.

The university has failed to protect its Jewish students against that hate, the lawsuit alleges.

Penn enforces its own rules of conduct selectively to avoid protecting Jewish students from hatred and harassment, hires rabidly antisemitic professors who call for anti-Jewish violence and spread terrorist propaganda, and ignore Jewish students pleas for protection, the suit said.

Penn declined to comment.

 READ MORE: Critics in an uproar over speakers at this weekends Palestine Writes literature festival held at Penn

You create a safe haven for this kind of antisemitic behavior

In Penns case, committee members scrutinized the handling of the Palestine Writes literature festival, held on campus in late September and criticized by some for including speakers with a history of making antisemitic remarks, including Pink Floyds Roger Waters.

Powerful donors have withdrawn financial support over the universitys handling of the festival and its response to antisemitism, and called for Magills and board chair Scott L. Boks resignations.

Why in the world would you host someone like that on your campus? Republican Rep. Jim Banks of Indiana asked Magill, referring to Waters.

Antisemitism has no place at Penn, Magill began to answer.

Banks cut her off: Why did you invite Roger Waters?

 READ MORE: Under pressure from Jewish community, Penn president unveils plan to combat antisemitism

Antisemitism has no place at Penn, and our free speech policies are guided by the United States Constitution, Magill answered.

He also questioned if Penn had disciplined professors who he said were seen clapping at a post-Oct. 7 rally when someone said Jews should go back to Berlin and Moscow.

You create a safe haven for this kind of antisemitic behavior, he charged. ... Your university is a hotbed of it.

Much of the harsh criticism came from Republicans, but not in all cases. Donald Norcross, a New Jersey congressman, confronted Magill, too.

Did you have the power to stop this event? he asked, referring to the festival.

She said she would not stop speakers unless the event posed a security risk.

We believe we were ready for any security concerns that might arise, she said. So yes, it went ahead.

He asked if she thought it was the right decision in hindsight.

I think canceling that conference would have been very inconsistent with academic freedom and free expression despite the fact that the views of some of the people who came to that conference I find very, very objectionable because of their antisemitism, Magill said.

Drawing comparisons

Democrats, in some cases, defended the presidents, noting the importance of free speech and free expression and highlighting that the rise in antisemitism is nothing new.

I so wish that this hearing was one where we were having a robust intellectual discussion, taking advantage of the brilliant minds we have in front of us about free speech, the limits of free speech, said Susan Wild of Pennsylvania. I fear that we have gotten away from that.

Republicans, said Democratic U.S. Rep. Robert C. Bobby Scott, wouldnt agree to hold a hearing in 2017 on campus discrimination when white supremacists marched through the University of Virginia shouting, Jews will not replace us, he said. And House Republicans, he said, are now trying to cut funding for the U.S. Department of Educations Office of Civil Rights, which recently has launched investigations into antisemitism on some college campuses, including Penn.

You cant have it both ways, he asserted. You cant call for action and then hamstring the agency charged with taking action to protect students civil rights.

All three presidents highlighted their efforts to combat antisemitism, and spoke ardently against the Hamas attack. Penn rolled out a plan on Nov. 1 including a task force that is expected to issue its report this spring and a student advisory group on the Jewish student experience  while also citing a rise in Islamophobia and their efforts to deal with those incidents.

That brought condemnation from Rep. Bob Good of Virginia.

Its wrong to suggest that antisemitism and Islamophobia are equivalent problems in this country, he said.

He asked Magill if there were cases of large groups rallying in support of killing Arabs or Muslims or eliminating an Arab or predominantly Muslim state.

Not that I am aware of, Magill said.

He asked her if she thought it would be immoral to equate the two.

I abhor all acts of hate, Magill responded.

A strange balancing act

Penn has experienced several antisemitic acts this semester, including the drawing of a swastika inside Meyerson Hall and vandalism at Penn Hillel. Complaints also surfaced after messages the university called antisemitic were light-projected on several Penn buildings, including Penn Commons, Huntsman Hall and Irvine Auditorium.

Meanwhile, a petition signed by more than 500 academics and writers from inside and outside the United States has called on Penn to defend its students, faculty, and staff against targeted harassment for speaking in support of Palestinians.

Wild, the Pennsylvania congresswoman, noted that while all students deserve a safe campus, college is supposed to be a place where students learn to think critically.

So here we are in this strange balancing act, she said, of trying to determine when speech incites violence.

She asked Magill if a video shown early in the hearing of a rally on Penns campus would rise to that level. Magill acknowledged the video was very hard to watch.

The chanting, I think, calling for Intifada global revolution, very disturbing, she said, and I can imagine many peoples reaction to that would be one of fear. So I believe at a minimum, that is hateful speech that has been and should be condemned. Whether it rises to the level of incitement to violence ... is a much more difficult question. The incitement to violence is a very narrow category.

In her opening statement, Magill said the university was working with the Anti-Defamation League office in Philadelphia, as well as local, state, and federal law enforcement to promptly report and investigate antisemitic acts against any member of the Penn community.

Where we have been able to identify individuals who committed these acts in violation of existing University policy or law, we have initiated disciplinary proceedings and referred these matters to law enforcement where appropriate, she testified.

She said she is committed to the safety and support of the Penn community, noting that security has been enhanced at every event, rally, protest, and vigil on campus. She said she also is committed to ensuring academic freedom and the free exchange of ideas.

University leadership, she continued, must provide guardrails that encourage free and open expression while also ensuring a secure environment, and that is what I am seeking to do.

Staff writer Jeremy Roebuck contributed to this article.
Hours after University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill testified before a congressional committee about the campus plans to address antisemitism, Gov. Josh Shapiro, a White House spokesperson and the leaders of Penn Hillel were among those who expressed serious concern about aspects of her testimony.

Critics have pointed to Magills response when asked repeatedly if calling for genocide of Jewish people violates Penns rules or code of conduct. It is a context-dependent decision, she said.

If that doesnt violate the policies of Penn, well, theres something wrong with the policies of Penn that the board needs to get on, or theres a failure of leadership from the president, or both, Shapiro said, speaking Wednesday at a press conference at Goldie, a falafel shop in the city, offering support to the business after it was singled out during a ceasefire march over the weekend.

Rabbi Gabe Greenberg, Penn Hillels executive director, and its two student co-presidents, Lauren Krasilovsky and Olivia Domansky called out the behavior, too.

President Magill repeatedly equivocated, refusing to characterize calls for the genocide of Jews as a breach of Penns code of conduct, wrote Greenberg, Krasilovsky, and Domansky. If there is any ambiguity with respect to the Codes application to this type of threat, it should immediately be amended. We are appalled by the need to state the obvious: Calls for genocide against Jews do not depend on the context.

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Magill Wednesday evening released a short video, saying she does view a call for genocide of Jewish people as harassment or intimidation and promising an evaluation of Penn policies.

In that moment, Magill, a lawyer, said of her testimony at the hearing, I was focused on our universitys long-standing policies aligned with the U.S. Constitution, which say that speech alone is not punishable. I was not focused on, but I should have been, the irrefutable fact that a call for genocide of Jewish people is a call for some of the most terrible violence human beings can perpetrate. Its evilplain and simple.

For decades, under multiple Penn presidents and consistent with most universities, Penns policies have been guided by the Constitution and the law. In todays world, where we are seeing signs of hate proliferating across our campus and our world in a way not seen in years, these policies need to be clarified and evaluated.

 READ MORE: Penn president Liz Magill got grilled by Congressional committee over the universitys response to antisemitism

Magill also took heat on social media including renewed calls for her resignation, seeming to reignite heavy criticism, including a donor backlash, that the school has faced over its handling of antisemitism in recent months. A change.org petition calling for her resignation had garnered nearly 2,400 signatures by 4:15 p.m.

And State Sen. Steve Santarsiero, a Democrat from Bucks County, called on Magill to resign and said he wont vote for any state appropriation for Penn until she does.

President Magill was given several chances to clearly state what should be obvious: that should any student call for the genocide of the Jewish People they would not only violate university policy but would be condemned in the strongest possible terms and face expulsion, Santarsiero said.

Penns board now has to decide if Magills testimony reflects the views of the university, said Shapiro, who floated the idea of getting involved.

Id like to see what they do first before I determine my next steps, he said. He didnt elaborate on what those steps could entail.

Board chair Scott L. Bok did not respond for comment.

Shapiro said hed spoken to Magill multiple times and made concrete recommendations on what he thought would be necessary to ensure all students feel safe on campus, which he said the school failed to do. He said Magills testimony Tuesday took it to the next level.

Leaders, he continued, have a responsibility to speak and act with moral clarity and Liz Magill failed to meet that simple test... Whether youre talking about genocide against Jews, genocide against people of color, genocide against LGBTQ folks, its all wrong. And it needs to be called out and it shouldnt be hard. And there should be no nuance to that. She needed to give a one-word answer and she failed to meet that test.

Magills comments came during intense questioning by Republican Rep. Elise M. Stefanik of New York at the House Committee on Education and the Workforce on Tuesday.

Pressed further, Magill said, if the speech becomes conduct, it can be harassment.

Conduct, meaning committing the act of genocide? Stefanik asked. The speech is not harassment?

Questioned further, Magill said, It can be harassment.

 READ MORE: Under pressure from Jewish community, Penn president unveils plan to combat antisemitism

Harvard and MIT presidents were also questioned

Stefanik asked the same question of Harvard president Claudine Gay and Massachusetts Institute of Technology president Sally Kornbluth, who both used the word context when answering whether they thought calling for the genocide of Jewish people constituted bullying or harassment.

It can be, depending on the context, Gay said.

What is the context? Stefanik asked.

Targeted at an individual, Gay responded.

Pressed further, Gay said: Antisemitic rhetoric when it crosses into conduct amounts to bullying, harassment, intimidation, that is actionable conduct and we do take action.

Kornbluth said she had not heard calls for genocide of Jewish people on her campus.

But you have heard chants for intifada? Stefanik asked.

I have heard chants which can be antisemitic depending on the context when calling for the elimination of Jewish people, she responded.

The White House also was critical of the three presidents for their comments.

Its unbelievable that this needs to be said: calls for genocide are monstrous and antithetical to everything we represent as a country, White House spokesperson Andrew Bates said in a statement, according to NBC News. Any statements that advocate for the systematic murder of Jews are dangerous and revolting  and we should all stand firmly against them, on the side of human dignity and the most basic values that unite us as Americans.

Another change.org petition called for the resignation of all three presidents.

Tensions mount elsewhere

Meanwhile, groups of students at both Haverford and Swarthmore colleges this week began sit-ins, calling on their colleges to do more to defend Palestinians and speak out against the harassment they have faced.

At Swarthmore, students, who began the sit-in at Parrish Hall Monday, are calling for the schools divesting from the Israeli occupational state and releasing of a statement condemning anti-Palestinian racism, among other demands. A group at Haverford calling itself Haverford College Students for Peace began a sit-in at Founders Hall Wednesday, demanding the college administration calls for a ceasefire and takes accountability for its harmful actions towards the Palestinian community.

 READ MORE: Haverford College student one of three Palestinians shot near University of Vermont campus, officials say

At Penn, Hillel leaders called on Magill to set the record straight and move with urgency on initiatives to address Jewish life on campus and combat antisemitism.

President Magills failure to properly characterize this speech leaves many Jewish students on Penns campus feeling that they are not protected by the administration, they wrote.

Magill rolled out a plan to combat antisemitism on Nov. 1, including a task force that is expected to issue its report this spring, and a student advisory group on the Jewish student experience.

Penn has experienced several antisemitic acts this semester, including the drawing of a swastika inside Meyerson Hall and vandalism at Penn Hillel. Complaints also surfaced after messages the university called antisemitic were light-projected on several Penn buildings, including Penn Commons, Huntsman Hall, and Irvine Auditorium.

Meanwhile, a petition signed by more than 500 academics and writers from inside and outside the United States has called on Penn to defend its students, faculty, and staff against targeted harassment for speaking in support of Palestinians.

Scrutiny of Penn began in late September when the Palestine Writes literature festival was held on campus and criticized by some for including speakers with a history of making antisemitic remarks, including Pink Floyds Roger Waters. Powerful donors have withdrawn financial support over the universitys handling of the festival and its response to antisemitism, and called for Magills and Boks resignations. Tensions escalated following Hamas Oct. 7 attack on Israel.

Staff writer Andrew Seidman contributed to this article.
Sheldon, the patron cat saint of the Philadelphia Argentine Tango School, had a tango composed about him in June. He is the only individual cat to have this honor bestowed upon him. Read more

There are dozens of shop cats in Philadelphia, but only one employed feline has had a Latin Grammy-nominated pianist compose a tango in its honor.

The cat muse in question is Sheldon, the live-in kitty who greets patrons and occasionally corrects dance technique at the Philadelphia Argentine Tango School in Fishtown. He came to reside in the studio  and its attached apartment  by way of the schools director Meredith Klein, who rescued Sheldon from Palmer Park in 2017.

Since then, hes spent the past six years capturing the hearts of guest Argentine tango instructors, novice dancers, and performers  including New York City-based tango pianist and composer Emiliano Messiez.

Messiez composed the three-part tango Sheldoneando as the opening track for the June 2023 album Psicoporteno, which was coproduced by Klein. It is the first release from Tipicia Messiez, the 10-member traditional tango orchestra Klein helped Messiez create at the 2019 Philadelphia Tango Festival.

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The songs title translates to Sheldon-ing, or the act of being Sheldon the cat. To Klein, Sheldon-ing includes jumping into strangers laps, finding new positions for snuggles, and secretly craving life back on the streets.

Sheldoneando is about having the life of dreams  living in a tango studio, having admirers  yet yearning to escape to have adventures, Klein said.

 READ MORE: The working pets of Philadelphia: These 10 cats and dogs hang in bike shops, salons, bookstores, and beer distributors

Klein said Sheldon (whose true age is unknown) was a former outdoor cat who ended up in Palmer Park after his owners abandoned him and moved away. When Klein attempted to domesticate him in 2017, she said he escaped after three days. He was tracked down by a group of Fishtown residents who used to feed him dinner.

He used to have a set schedule to canvass the neighborhood for food, said Klein. Hed stop by one house at 5 p.m. to get his first dinner, and then another at 9 p.m. to get his second dinner, and then another at 2 a.m. to get his third dinner, and so on. Hes very smart.

Now, Sheldons chief pastimes include lounging in the studios front window, demanding pets at the registration table, and sashaying across the dance floor as if hes commenting on peoples forms, Klein said.

Founded in 2008 as a hub for Argentine tango music, dance, and poetry, Klein uses the Philadelphia Argentine Tango School to host guest artists and help them get visas, often offering them the studios attached apartment for their stay. Sheldon, of course, comes with the territory.

Our teachers not only have to be extraordinary tango performers, they also have to like Sheldon, Klein said. Cuddling him is part of their job.

Messiez, who is from Buenos Aires, met Sheldon and Klein in 2017 when he stepped in as a fill-in pianist for an event the tango school was hosting at the Barnes Foundation. Since then, Messiez has gone on to perform internationally, compose for several Broadway and regional musicals, and collaborate on more than 90 Philadelphia Tango School events with Klein, Sheldon often lounging at the foot of the studios piano while Messiez plays.

We always joked that Sheldon deserved a song, said Messiez, who recently received his first Latin Grammy nomination in the best tango album category for his 2022 album Ahora.

Messiez said Sheldoneando came together in about a week. After writing the melody from bed one morning in 10 minutes, Messiez began researching sounds that cats enjoy.

Im writing a song for a cat, so I asked myself, What do I do to be fair? Messiez said.

 READ MORE: Meet Leo, the TikTok famous cat who lives inside a South Jersey Home Depot

The composer ended up learning that although cats can hear noises at higher frequencies than humans, they actually enjoy lower register sounds  hence the slow, almost ominous-sounding beginning to Sheldoneando.

When you hear the song you can see Sheldon stalking across the studio, said Klein. Messiez said he imagines Sheldon happily watching couples dance every time he plays it.

As for Sheldon, he seems to like the song, even if he has no idea it was composed for him. Klein says she occasionally plays Sheldoneando to summon him out from hiding.

Sheldons not humble, said Klein. He just doesnt know anything about music or composition.
Since the beginning pandemic, physicians are getting more messages from patients. Some hospitals are billing for responses. Read more

Health systems across the country are charging patients for messaging their physicians through patient portals. But Philadelphia-area systems are not joining the new trend.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, patients began sending more messages to their physicians, often through portals such as MyChart. Telehealth has remained popular and doctors are finding themselves spending as much as an hour or two a day responding to patient messages  a service that hospitals and physician offices have typically not charged for.

Some health systems have begun charging patients for responses that involve medical advice. The Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services allows providers to count a written reply as a virtual visit if it requires at least five minutes.

Cleveland Clinic, for example, charges people with private insurance a copay of up to $50.

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Johns Hopkins, UCSF Health, Oregon Health & Science University, and the University of Washington are among the other large health systems that have joined the trend.

 READ MORE: As more patients email doctors, health systems start charging fees

The Inquirer asked Philadelphia-area health systems if they are charging patients to communicate with their physicians through messaging. Most said that they do not charge: Jefferson Health, Penn Medicine, Tower Health, Prime Healthcare, Cooper University Health Care, Temple Health, Crozer Health, Virtua Health, and Main Line Health.

Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, Inspira Health Network, and Redeemer Health did not respond.

The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania said that the industry group hasnt noticed a trend of billing for messages across the state.

Equity concerns

Anna Morgan, a general internal medicine physician at Penn Medicine, has noticed that her patients message her more often.

Its a significant part of our daily work as primary care clinicians, she said.

Being able to answer questions that come up after visits strengthens her relationship with patients. But she struggles to meet the growing demand for virtual correspondence. Since her office doesnt bill for the service, the time it takes to respond to the growing number of messages is not adequately accounted for in her busy schedule.

Its getting increasingly difficult as more and more of these messages are being sent, Morgan said.

 READ MORE: Could telehealth be the solution for the nursing shortage in hospitals? Jefferson Health thinks so

Still, Morgan said she worries that billing for messages would create an equity issue: patients who can afford an extra co-pay will have more access to their physicians, while those who cant pay wont.

She thinks the question of billing for messages should be part of a larger conversation about the use of text communication between visits. What questions are best for a message versus a call to the office? How quickly should patients expect a response? Is the best response a message or a call back?

Some health systems have found that allowing physicians to bill for messages doesnt mean they do. UCSF established a billing policy in November 2021, but only a small number of eligible messages actually led to a bill. Cleveland Clinic saw similarly low levels of billing, according to reporting in Kaiser Health News.

I dont think weve entirely figured out as patients or doctors the optimal use of MyChart messages, Morgan said.
A Shoprite customer enters the chain's Fox Street location in Nicetown during the grand opening celebration for the new Healthy Together Hub on Tuesday, Dec. 5. Temple Health and Browns Super Stores partnered to open the free clinic, which will offer regular health screenings to the public and connect patients to additional care. Read more

Temple Health opened on Tuesday a clinic providing free health screenings inside a Nicetown ShopRite in an effort to improve access to preventative health care.

The Healthy Together Hub will offer free screenings for cancer and other conditions. The clinic will also offer health education, with Temple neurologists giving information on Alzheimers and Parkinsons disease, and staff from its School of Pharmacy helping clients learn how their medications interact. Social workers will be available to help patients navigate the behavioral health care system or get connected to food and housing services.

The ShopRite, in a shopping complex at 2800 Fox Street, sees about 24,000 customers a year. Temple officials hope that the hub can reach about 5% of those customers in its first year. The clinic does not require insurance, and its services are free.

This is a very comprehensive, holistic health center where education and screenings will take place. But we need the community to come out and take advantage of this opportunity, said Lakisha Sturgis, Temples director of community care management. The Fox Street ShopRite is her local supermarket, and the opening of the clinic on Tuesday is a personal and professional achievement, she said.

A focus on health screenings

The clinic does not have an in-house pharmacy, like those available at many supermarkets in the Philadelphia region. (The Nicetown ShopRite does not have a pharmacy.) Rather, Temple hopes to use the hub to connect with patients who might find it difficult to seek care at other Temple locations that are farther away.

Were meeting people where they are, Sturgis said.

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Steven Carson, Temples senior vice president for population health, said that the idea for the clinic stemmed from Temples mobile health services during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The health system used an RV to travel to community health fairs and offer COVID testing and vaccinations.

The new clinic is focused mostly on health screenings. If we identify something thats abnormal, we can connect you to a provider so you can get your follow-up care, so youre not walking around with something that you didnt know about, he said.

The Fox Street location has previously had success hosting temporary health screenings, said Sandy Brown, executive vice president of Browns Super Stores, which runs several ShopRites in the region. A few years ago, she said, 60 people showed up to a one-day breast cancer screening event at the store.

The community does trust us from a health perspective. It sounds kind of crazy to come to your local supermarket for that, but 60 people came here because of trust for the brand, she said. We really think that we can generate a lot of connection.

Improving access to health care

After Temple officials cut a ribbon to open the clinic Tuesday, staffers stayed to chat with shoppers as they entered the grocery store. Some customers who stopped by the clinic opening said they were already patients at Temple Health, and welcomed the opportunity for a more convenient location for health screenings.

Pat Moore, who lives near the ShopRite, said she was more likely to get screenings in a hospital setting, but was intrigued by the new clinic. If they have something here, Ill always stop to see whats going on, she said.

Lakisha Rodriguez, one of the community health workers working at the clinic, handed out first-aid kits and helped passersby sign up for a raffle to win an air fryer. I love to do outreach in the community, because people dont know what resources are available, she said. Im excited to catch people at the door.
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court denied Tower Healths bid to appeal its loss of Phoenixville Hospitals property tax exemption in an order issued Tuesday. Read more

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court issued an order Tuesday denying Tower Healths bid to appeal its loss of a property tax exemption for Phoenixville Hospital.

Phoenixville Area School District said the decision will allow it to keep nearly $5 million in property taxes paid by Tower since the company acquired the hospital in 2017.

This ruling is a victory for the district as well as the greater Phoenixville community, but most importantly for our students, the district said in a statement.

The Supreme Court action effectively upheld the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Courts decision in February that three Tower hospitals in Chester County were not eligible for property tax exemptions, even though Tower is a nonprofit corporation. Commonwealth Court is an appeals court below the Supreme Court.

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Two of the Chester County hospitals  Brandywine and Jennersville  had already been closed when Commonwealth Court ruled. Phoenixville is still in operation, dealing with the consequences of the initial October 2021 decision by Chester County Court of Common Pleas Judge Jeffrey R. Sommer.

Sommer found that the three Chester County hospitals did not qualify for property-tax exemption for three main reasons: They did not provide enough free services, the hospitals businesses were too intertwined with the interests of doctors working at for-profit practices, and they didnt operate free of private profit motives given their executive compensation packages.

The court cases send a signal that nonprofit health systems should not expect taxpayers to subsidize exorbitant executive salaries, a lawyer representing Phoenixville Area School District said.

It is common sense that if you act like a for-profit business, you should not be rewarded with a charitable tax exemption, said Howard L. Kelin, an attorney with Sweet, Stevens, Katz & Williams LLP.

Tower said it was evaluating its options regarding the tax situation in Phoenixville.

In a separate case, the states highest court agreed in October to hear Towers appeal involving Pottstown Hospital. The Pottstown case was more narrowly focused on issues involving executive pay and whether a parent companys activities have bearing on a hospital subsidiarys property tax exemption.
Former labor leader John Dougherty leaves the federal courthouse in Center City Philadelphia on Nov. 17 with a member of his legal team during his embezzlement trial at the James A. Byrne U.S. Courthouse. Read more

Jurors began their deliberations Tuesday in the federal embezzlement trial of labor leader John Dougherty but did not reach a verdict after roughly 4  hours of discussion.

U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Schmehl handed the case to the panel of seven women and five men after spending the morning instructing them on the relevant law and how to reach their decision.

Talk to each other. Listen to each other, he urged them. Respect each others views and values, but please keep an open mind.

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The panel spent most of the afternoon cloistered in silence, occasionally sending requests to the judge to see certain pieces of evidence, which Schmehl and the lawyers discussed privately in his chambers.

Dougherty, meanwhile, passed the time milling quietly around the courtroom, seated at the defense table at times with his daughter, Tara Chupka, a former in-house counsel for his union, Local 98 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

Brian Burrows, Doughertys codefendant and Local 98s former president, awaited any word from the jury outside the courtroom.

 READ MORE: As it happened: Jury ends first day deliberations in John Dougherty embezzlement trial without a verdict

Both men have denied prosecutors allegations that they and others embezzled more than $600,000 from Local 98 between 2010 and 2016, spending it on everything from home renovations and pricey dinners to mundane purchases like groceries and household goods.

They face charges including conspiracy, embezzlement, wire and tax fraud, and falsification of union financial statements that could send them to prison for up to 20 years on the most serious count.

Dougherty is still awaiting sentencing for his 2021 bribery conviction alongside former Philadelphia City Councilmember Bobby Henon, whom Schmehl sentenced to 3  years in prison earlier this year.

Jurors will resume their deliberations Wednesday morning.
Taylor Swift performs during the first of three Eras Tour performances at Lincoln Financial Field in May. Read more

A woman from West Reading whose parents owned a Christmas tree farm has been named Times Person of the Year and no one is surprised.

The magazine announced Wednesday morning that Taylor Swift is the outlets 96th Person of the Year and its first entertainer to receive the honor. (In 2005, Bono from U2 was part of a group of Good Samaritans to earn the title.)

The announcement comes after a massive year for Swift, starting with her sold-out Eras Tour and capping off with a high-profile new relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce.

Swift was selected from nine finalists, who included Barbie, Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Hollywood actors and writers who went on strike, and King Charles III.

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Times editor-in-chief, Sam Jacobs, announced: Taylor Swift found a way to transcend borders and be a source of light.

No one else on the planet today can move so many people so well, he added. Achieving this feat is something we often chalk up to the alignments of planets and fates, but giving too much credit to the stars ignores her skill and her power. Swift is the rare person who is both the writer and hero of her own story.

In the magazines lofty profile on Swift  spanning several thousand words  Times Sam Lansky acknowledges the artists presence and success over the years while giving fans a peek behind the curtain of her trajectory and personal life.

I dont give Taylor advice about being famous, Stevie Nicks told Lansky. She doesnt need it.

Beatlemania and Thriller have nothing on these shows, Phoebe Bridgers said about the Eras Tour.

And, of course, Time spoke with the winner herself and photographed her in at least four new looks for the digital piece (the physical magazine hasnt dropped yet). Her cat, Benjamin Button, also makes an appearance.

This is the proudest and happiest Ive ever felt and the most creatively fulfilled and free Ive ever been, Swift told Time. Ultimately, we can convolute it all we want, or try to overcomplicate it, but theres only one question ... Are you not entertained?
By making Ukraine aid "dependent upon enactment" of draconian changes at the U.S. southern border, House Speaker Mike Johnson shows he isnt serious about either crisis, writes Trudy Rubin. Read more

Is it really possible that the GOP is about to kneecap Ukraine on the battlefield by cutting off all U.S. military aid to Kyiv?

Are Republican legislators, who constantly trumpet their patriotism, really prepared to stab America in the back (a phrase often politically abused but wholly accurate here) by handing Russian President Vladimir Putin a huge potential victory at a terrifying cost to U.S. security?

Yes, and yes.

On the eve of a crucial Senate vote on funding weapons for Ukraine, it appeared that GOP members would block the aid. We are on the verge of stopping funding, I was recently told by Sen. Chris Coons. The Delaware Democrat is among the sane legislators working hard to prevent this debacle.

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Without congressional action by the end of the year, wrote President Joe Bidens top budget official, Shalanda Young, to congressional leadership, we will run out of resources to procure more weapons and equipment for Ukraine and to provide equipment from U.S. military stocks.

So let me puncture one by one the arguments Republicans are using to justify their blinkered determination to undermine Kyiv  and then address what Biden should do to push back.

 READ MORE: In the war between Ukraine and Russia, which side is the GOP on? | Trudy Rubin

Linking Ukraine aid to border policy

Led by House Speaker Mike Johnson, the GOP has tied Ukraine funding to transformative change in U.S. policy on the southern border. Yes, a revamping of border policy is needed, but it will require difficult bipartisan negotiations. Yet, by making Ukraine aid dependent upon enactment of draconian border changes, Johnson shows he isnt serious about either crisis. (Many GOP senators, notably Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, support Ukraine aid, but have bowed to the House linkage with immigration reform.)

Handing Putin a strategic victory

Johnson and his MAGA backers display an amazing indifference to the security costs of handing Putin a potential victory over Ukraine. Perhaps they have drunk the Kool-Aid of Donald Trumps promise to solve the Ukraine issue within 24 hours by making a deal with Putin  i.e., by conceding to him the Ukrainian territory that Russia has occupied, which will destroy Ukraine as an independent country.

Should Putin emerge triumphant, this will comprise the most critical strategic defeat for the United States since the end of the Cold War. Ukraines collapse, abetted by the U.S., would confirm that the West has no stomach to push back against Putins efforts to rebuild Russias empire, including partial territorial grabs of neighboring countries and interference in other regions. China, Iran, and North Korea will be watching closely.

Moreover, the U.S. betrayal of Ukraine would strengthen the assessment by Americas friends and enemies that Washington is no longer an ally that can be trusted, thereby undermining Americas alliances in Europe and Asia.

Nor will the Europeans, who now provide more aid to Ukraine than the United States, be able to provide the key weapons systems produced in this country. As Sen. Coons pointed out, U.S. leadership is critical in keeping the Western alliance together in supporting Ukraine. If we back off, many of the other countries will find reasons to back off, he said. If we continue to lead, others will follow.

None of this seems to trouble the MAGA crowd.

Misguided charges of corruption

GOP gripes on Ukraine go beyond border policy, raising the issue of corruption in Kyiv. Yet they never mention that the Pentagon has multiple systems to check where the money goes, nor that the bulk of the funding previously authorized by Congress comes right back to the United States. The funds mostly go to purchase updated U.S. weapons systems, while the Ukrainians get the older systems the Pentagon is phasing out.

Giving Ukraine the weapons for victory

There is one  and only one  Republican concern that I would echo, and that is that the administration presents clearly defined and obtainable objectives to Congress and the U.S. public regarding the conflict.

By seizing this opportunity, I believe Biden could rejuvenate public support for Ukraine aid and turn the pressure back on the GOP. To do this, however, he would have to change his Ukraine approach, from that of keeping Kyiv afloat to making a determined effort to ensure the Ukrainians win.

 READ MORE: Documentary sheds light on Putins mass murder in Ukraine | Trudy Rubin

One reason Ukraines counteroffensive against Moscow has stalled is that Biden is still hesitating to give Ukraine key weapons systems.

The delay in delivering F-16 fighter jets  and training pilots  has left Kyiv without necessary air support and defense of its ground forces. Meanwhile, Bidens continued refusal to send long-range missiles that can travel 300 kilometers with a single powerful warhead, known as ATACMS, has deprived Ukraine of a critical weapon that could help cut off Russian access to the Crimean Peninsula, which it now occupies. Long-range ATACMS could strike Moscows bases in Crimea along with its fleet in the Black Sea.

Despite the Pentagons claims that it has no ATACMS to spare, Lockheed Martin has an active production line manufacturing 500 in fiscal year 2024, with most or all of them being exported to countries that are not at war.

Even a couple of dozen could make a huge difference, I was told by the Foundation for Defense of Democracies Bradley Bowman, a weapons and security expert. While not a silver bullet, ATACMS could do real damage to the Kerch Bridge linking Russian territory to Crimea and put Putin on the back foot.

While President Biden deserves credit for his strong support of Ukraine, he needs to clarify why it is so important for Kyiv to drive the Russians out, and provide the weapons for it to do so. That is the key to pushing back against the blinkered MAGA crowd who would rather see Putin win.
State Sen. Nikil Saval, a Philadelphia Democrat, is complaining about how he was treated at a Pennsylvania Society party thrown by the law firm Duane Morris. Read more

Every Pennsylvania Society has at least one squabble that becomes the pervasive gossip of the glitzy weekend gathering of the states politicians held every December in Manhattan.

This years conflict: State Sen. Nikil Saval being barred  momentarily  from entering the late-night soiree thrown by the law firm Duane Morris at The Rainbow Room, the Art Deco ballroom and lounge with sweeping midtown views from the 65th floor of Rockefeller Center.

Saval and Duane Morris agree on one point: The Democratic-socialist from Philadelphia was eventually admitted to the party thrown by the firm, which has high-profile Democratic and Republican partners.

Saval insists he was temporarily barred from the party and threatened with ejection from the building because he signed a letter with other politicians calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war.

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The firm counters that Saval received an invitation but failed to reserve his spot at the party, which was already at capacity in a building with strict security about guest lists.

Alan Kessler, a partner at the firm whos active in national Democratic politics, told Clout he intervened when he heard Saval was being kept out.

Saval arrived at the party clearly upset and quickly recounted the dispute for Clout and others. Saval then repeatedly reached out to reporters and shared his story again with several people at the big Pennsylvania Society dinner Saturday night.

Kessler, who is Jewish, said he is not a fan of Savals position on a ceasefire. But he noted the firm does not spend serious time and money on the party to make enemies in Harrisburg.

Whatever happened, whatever he went through, we did everything we could to get him upstairs, Kessler said.

Saval looped in Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa of Pittsburgh and State Sen. Vincent Hughes of Philadelphia, who served as intermediaries with the firm about his concerns.

Clout hears the Senate Democratic Caucus is arranging a meeting with the firms leadership to hash things out with Saval, who won his seat in 2020 and is up for reelection next year.

Clout provides often irreverent news and analysis about people, power, and politics.
LOS ANGELES  Two months after his historic ouster as U.S. House speaker, Republican Rep. Kevin McCarthy said Wednesday that he is resigning and will leave Congress by the end of the year.

His announcement capped a stunning end to a House career for the onetime deli counter owner from Bakersfield, California, who ascended through state and national politics to become second in line to the presidency, until a cluster of hard-right conservatives engineered his removal in October.

McCarthy is the only speaker in history to be voted out of the job.

No matter the odds, or personal cost, we did the right thing, McCarthy wrote in The Wall Street Journal, announcing his decision. It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways.

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Word about McCarthys future had been expected, days before the filing deadline to seek reelection to the House. But his decision ricocheted across Capitol Hill, where his departure will leave the already paper-thin House GOP majority even tighter, with just a few seats to spare.

It adds to a wave of retirements in both parties, as many members seek higher office or look to escape the partisan rancor that often paralyzes the chamber. Republicans have been split by infighting and the rare expulsion last week of indicted GOP Rep. George Santos of New York, dashing hopes for major accomplishments and leaving the majority straining to conduct the basic business of governing.

Its also the end of an era for a generation of House Republicans led by McCarthy and former Reps. Paul Ryan and Eric Cantor, the so-called Young Guns whose book of the same title outlined a new style of GOP governance. Ryan and Cantor are gone, and McCarthy will soon exit.

McCarthy had brought the Republicans into the majority but found it was much more difficult to lead the GOPs factions.

His toppling from the speakers post was fueled by grievances from his partys hard-right flank, including over his decision to work with Democrats to keep the federal government open rather than risk a shutdown.

House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana, a Republican who succeeded McCarthy as speaker, tweeted that McCarthy served faithfully and sacrificed substantially for the good of our country and our cause.

Speaking later with reporters, Johnson called McCarthy a long and trusted friend and said he was sad to see him go.

Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who led the effort to remove McCarthy, tweeted a one-word response after his announcement: McLeavin.

He later chastised McCarthy, whose departure will further narrow the GOPs fragile hold on power. I think he should have stuck around and helped us hold a strong majority, Gaetz told reporters. But he left.

McCarthy, 58, arrived in the House in January 2007 after a stint in the California Assembly, where he was minority leader. In Congress, he maneuvered through his partys hierarchy before being elected speaker in January.

The dayslong floor fight that preceded his elevation to the Houses top job foreshadowed a stormy tenure, at a time when former President Donald Trump remained the de facto leader of the party and deep divisions within the GOP raised serious questions about the partys ability to govern.

It took a record 15 votes over four days for McCarthy to line up the support he needed to win the post he had long coveted, finally prevailing on a 216-212 vote with Democrats backing leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York and six Republican holdouts voting present. Not since the Civil War era has a speakers vote dragged through so many rounds of counting.

McCarthy emerged from the fight weakened, especially considering Republicans held only a fragile margin in the chamber after a predicted red wave failed to materialize in the 2022 elections.

In the speakers job, McCarthys well-known savvy for fundraising and political glad-handing appeared ill-suited for corralling his partys hard-right members. Deals he cut to become speaker  including a rules change that allowed any single lawmaker to file a motion to remove him  left him vulnerable.

When he became speaker, he faced new challenges that required a different skill set, said Claremont McKenna College political scientist Jack Pitney, a onetime domestic policy analyst for House Republicans. And the deals he made to become speaker made it almost impossible for him to succeed as speaker.

McCarthy, the son of a firefighter and a homemaker, has long depicted himself as a tireless battler. He is fond of quoting his father, who told him, Its not how you start, its how you finish.

McCarthy is from a Republican-leaning area in Central California where oil derricks blanket hillsides and country music fans pack into Buck Owens Crystal Palace hall. Far from the Southern California beaches and San Franciscos restaurants, farming and oil pumping shape the economy.

It wasnt immediately clear what would happen with the vacancy, which could have implications for Republican control. Only a handful of seats separates the two parties.

In California, Friday is the last day for candidates to file paperwork to enter the 2024 elections. If the vacancy occurs before the end of that period, Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom would be required to call a special election to fill McCarthys seat.

If McCarthy steps down after that time, it would be up to the governor to decide whether to call a special election.

McCarthy has been credited with helping recruit a new, more diverse generation of GOP House members, including in his home state, where the delegation includes two South Korean immigrants, both women.

Rep. Carlos Gimenez, R-Fla., was handpicked by McCarthy in 2020 to run for a House seat that had swung back and forth between Democrats and Republicans for several elections. McCarthys instinct turned out to be right and Gimenez won that election over an incumbent Democrat.

I surely will miss him, but I think the House will miss him more, Gimenez said.

He said McCarthys departure could put House Republicans at a financial disadvantage in their efforts to keep the majority.

McCarthy exited with a reminder of his fundraising prowess. Just before Thanksgiving, he transferred $3 million of his political funds to vulnerable GOP members, state Republican parties and the House GOP campaign arm, spokesperson Drew Florio said in an email.

Nobody could raise funds like Kevin McCarthy could, Gimenez said. To replace him at this point, at this short time for the next election, thats an impossible task for Speaker Johnson. If he comes even close, I will take my hat off to him.
Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., arrives at Manhattan federal court in October to enter a not guilty plea to a conspiracy charge alleging he acted as an agent of the Egyptian government. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II) Read more

Gold bars that U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez (D., N.J.) is accused of accepting as bribes seem to have a seasoned history.

Menendez and his wife, Nadine Arslanian, were indicted on federal charges in September, with prosecutors alleging that they accepted bribes of gold bars, a 2019 Mercedes-Benz, and more in exchange for political influence. Three businessmen were also charged in connection with their alleged dealings with the senator: Jose Uribe, Wael Hana, and Fred Daibes. They have all maintained their innocence.

The FBI uncovered $100,000 in gold bars  along with almost $500,000 in cash  in a search of the couples home in Bergen County last year, according to prosecutors.

Prosecutors accused Menendez and his wife of accepting gold bars from Daibes, a real estate developer who allegedly sought help from the senator in an attempt to get out of a federal bank fraud case against him in 2020  in which he ultimately pleaded guilty  in multiple instances.

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Investigators said they found several gold bars with serial numbers registered to Daibes in Menendezs home.

According to an NBC New York report, those gold bars were involved in an almost decades-old robbery case.

Daibes reported that he was a victim of an armed robbery in 2013, with $500,000 in cash and 22 gold bars stolen, according to Edgewater, N.J., police records, NBC reported. Police caught four suspects with the property, which was returned to Daibes.

Daibes attested in 2014 that each of his gold bars had a unique serial number, which prosecutors say matches the bars Daibes said were stolen from him in 2013, NBC reported.

Prosecutors in Bergen County, where the 2013 robbery occurred, declined to comment Tuesday.

The businessman is also accused of providing the senator with cash and furniture, according to the indictment.

Menendez said hell fight the charges against him, which include a superseding indictment in October in which prosecutors alleged he acted as an unregistered agent for Egypt through his role heading the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Menendez previously got out of legal turmoil when prosecutors unsuccessfully accused him in 2015 of accepting luxury gifts and hundreds of thousands of dollars in campaign contributions from a friend in exchange for favors, but experts say this time is different.
Mayor-elect Cherelle Parker at a news conference in the Mayor's Reception Room at City Hall to outline her transition team and the plans that she has for her administration. Read more

Philadelphia Mayor-elected Cherelle Parker on Tuesday unveiled what shes calling her intergovernmental roundtable, an advisory board made up of top Democrats in local, state, and federal government.

Standing alongside the group of two dozen lawmakers, Parker said during a news conference in City Hall that the roundtable will meet regularly and work together to achieve her legislative priorities on issues like public safety, housing, addiction, workforce development, and cleanliness.

She said the group will focus on delivering results that people can touch, see, and feel, and not just when its a crisis.

West Philadelphia State Sen. Vincent Hughes will chair the roundtable, which he said is a new concept that hasnt been used by past mayors. The group is made up of a whos who of Democratic politicians, including both of Pennsylvanias U.S. senators, three members of Congress, state Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton, and soon-to-be City Council president Kenyatta Johnson.

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But while Parker strongly emphasized unity during the news conference, most of the lawmakers who appeared alongside her on Tuesday endorsed her in the heated Democratic primary for mayor  no surprise given she amassed significant support among elected Democrats.

The roundtable did not include any Republicans or members of the Working Families Party, the progressive third party that won two seats on City Council in November.

Parker, a former state representative who ran for mayor as a moderate, said she has long enjoyed working relationships with Republicans, including State Rep. Martina White of Northeast Philadelphia, who is the House GOP caucus secretary.

 READ MORE: Cherelle Parker takes a victory lap in New York and leads a party in chanting One Philly

The roundtable also did not initially include members of the more progressive wing of the citys Democratic party.

For example, City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, a West Philadelphia progressive, was the only incumbent Democrat from Council who was not included on the list of roundtable members distributed at the news conference. And State Sen. Nikil Saval, another progressive who represents parts of Center City and South Philadelphia and chairs the Philadelphia delegation, was the only city Democrat in the Senate not on the roundtable.

Gauthier and Saval endorsed former City Councilmember Helen Gym in the mayoral primary. Gym, who was also backed by U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I., Vt.) and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D., N.Y.), finished third.

Aren Platt, a senior adviser to Parker, said the makeup of the roundtable was not complete and that the transition committee first sought out lawmakers in leadership roles and others she has a strong working relationship with.

Then, shortly after the news conference, senior transition staff called Gauthier and invited her to join the roundtable.

In a statement, Gauthier thanked Parker for retroactively inviting me to her intergovernmental roundtable and said shes looking forward to working closely with the mayor-elect on several issues we both care deeply about.

Still, the roundtable members who attended the news conference praised Parker and vowed to work together to support her administration.

Hughes, who backed Parker for mayor after deciding in January not to run himself, said Parkers convening of such an advisory board is precedent-setting. He said such a structured committee of lawmakers from three levels of government has never been done before.

It goes to two things, Hughes said. The vision of this mayor, and the attributes that the city offers up with key people with great knowledge in leadership positions, all designed to bring resources and make transformational change for the residents of Philadelphia.

State Rep. Donna Bullock, a North Philadelphia Democrat, said the group is not just meeting to meet.

Were not just here to see ourselves in our suits, she said. The formation of this roundtable is a pledge to those neighbors, to our neighbors, that we will do more than play nice in the sandbox. This is what government looks like when its working for the people.
During Mayor Jim Kenney's tenure, the city budget has included healthy reserves and the pension fund has improved. Finance Director Rob Dubow, left, was instrumental in the administration's handling of fiscal matters. Read more

Mayor Jim Kenney will undoubtedly be remembered for the crises that gripped Philadelphia during his tenure.

So its easy to forget that the city budget, the cause of crises for so many past mayors, has largely been a success story during his administration.

The citys credit ratings are up, the pension systems unfunded liability is down, and annual budgets finally include adequate cash reserves, finance experts say. Meanwhile, the city has managed to incrementally cut the wage and business taxes while increasing its contribution to the school district.

Philadelphia still has enormous fiscal constraints, its socioeconomic issues would require billions more to address, and city services have suffered since the pandemic. But when judged by the typical measures of the citys fiscal health, the last eight years have put Philly in a better position for the future.

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 READ MORE: Mayor Jim Kenney wants to be remembered as someone who cared  even if he didnt always seem like it

Kenney, who leaves office in January, has benefited from a strong national economy and an unprecedented $1.4 billion in federal pandemic relief. And recent gains can be seen as the result of decades of consistent fiscal policy that began after the citys early 1990s fiscal crisis.

But by most accounts, Kenneys administration  under the guidance of a longtime city finance official  made smart moves, making significant new investments in social services while addressing long-standing fiscal dilemmas.

The mayor made strategic policy decisions about what he was able to spend money on, said Kevin Vaughan, who chairs the Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority, a state board that oversees the citys finances, and worked on Kenneys 2015 election. Theyve put money aside, they made sure that the fund balance was funded, they made sure that their union contracts were funded. Thats a big one for the city.

Kenney is not without critics when it comes to his handling of the budget. The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia has pushed for more aggressive tax cuts to promote job growth. Progressive leaders have called for the city to maintain or raise taxes to generate more revenue for needed services.

And many are concerned that city spending, which increased by more than 50% under Kenney, could become unsustainable.

But barring an unexpected economic downturn, Kenney will leave Mayor-elect Cherelle Parker in a strong position when she inherits the citys $6.3 billion budget in January.

The man behind Kenneys budgets

One of the more consequential moves Kenney made was retaining Finance Director Rob Dubow, who held the same title under former Mayor Michael A. Nutter and has had key roles in city finance for decades.

Although he is largely unknown to the general public, Dubow holds enormous influence in City Hall. His preferences for making small but consistent tax cuts, boosting annual reserves, and prioritizing the pension fund have won the day under both Nutter and Kenney, despite the two mayors being political enemies.

After years of financial crisis and economic volatility, it was important to make it clear to key stakeholders  including ratings agencies, investors, and PICA  that the administration valued continuity of leadership and sound financial management over political differences, Kenney said of keeping Dubow.

Dubow has been finance director for 16 years  a decade longer than anyone else since at least the 1950s  and he doesnt appear to be going anywhere. Parker is encouraging him to stay on in her administration, according to two sources with knowledge of the talks.

Dubow declined to comment on his future, but said Kenney deserved credit for having discipline when faced with funding requests that could have overextended the budget.

Hes the one who has to make the hard decisions, Dubow said. While were in better fiscal shape, part of it is he is willing to say no to things. And he gets calls about it, and hes willing to stick with it.

Kenney only once had to deal with a serious threat to the city budget, and it turned out to be short-lived. Initially, the pandemic appeared like it could devastate city finances, and Kenney had to plug a projected $749 million shortfall.

The resulting $4.8 billion budget deal approved in June 2020 included targeted layoffs, reductions in city services, and a temporary freeze on tax cuts. But federal aid came, and tax revenues rebounded more quickly than expected. The next budget restored spending to roughly pre-pandemic levels.

More money, one problem

At the end of his first term, in 2019, Kenney was flying high with progressive accomplishments and thoughts of higher office. But the budget had grown a staggering 25%  from roughly $4 billion to $5 billion  and it appeared to many that the city was once again in a period of runaway spending.

As his second term draws to a close, Kenney has seen his popularity fall. The city budget, though? Couldnt be better.

In fact, the city is struggling to spend the money it is collecting, a predicament past mayors could only dream of. But that is due in part to the citys difficulties with hiring: About one in five city jobs are currently vacant. While that is good news for the city budget, it has been disastrous for city services, from policing to building inspections.

 READ MORE: Amid a staffing crisis, Philly Mayor Jim Kenney urged people to apply for city jobs: We need your help

The fund balance, or the amount of money left unspent, was $981.6 million for the budget year that ended in July, the highest its ever been. That left the city just shy of the level of reserves that the Government Finance Officers Association recommends: 17%, or about two months of spending. At $681.8 million, this years projected fund balance is also much larger than usual.

The fund balance doesnt include $449 million that the city still hasnt spent from its $1.4 billion in federal pandemic relief. That money must be spent by the end of 2024, giving Parker even more wiggle room in her first budget.

Philly has taken a conservative approach to the unprecedented federal windfall. While other cities dedicated money to one-time projects, Philly categorized all of its relief funding as needed to replace revenue lost during the pandemic.

City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier has for several years pressed the Kenney administration to spend more on city services that would improve the quality of life in neighborhoods most acutely impacted by gun violence.

 READ MORE: City Council wants the next budget to fix black hole created by quality-of-life problems, from trash to broken streetlights

Weve taken a somewhat conservative approach that has definitely helped our [cash reserves], definitely helped our financial stability, but I think that coming out of that dark time, I would have invested more heavily in the well-being of neighborhoods, said Gauthier, who was the only member to vote against the current budget. Theres also an aspect of just having people feel good about living in the city.

Bond ratings and pensions

Philly now has its best combination of credit ratings in 40 years, according to the administration. Stronger ratings save money for local taxpayers by reducing the citys borrowing costs.

Since 2013, all three major agencies have given Phillys general obligation bonds versions of A ratings. During Kenneys administration, the ratings and outlooks have improved. Phillys grades are now slightly worse than those of New York City and Los Angeles, and slightly better than Chicagos.

Fitch believes the city will continue its trend of prudent and conservative budget management, the agency said in a May report.

A big reason for the improved ratings is Phillys recent success in shoring up its municipal pension system, a trouble spot for many cities.

The pension fund was only 44.8% funded when Kenney took office. It is now 57.6% funded, and the city projects it will be 80% funded in five years, a remarkable turnaround driven by labor contract reforms, investment strategy changes, and a dedicated revenue stream from a sales tax increase approved before Kenney took office.

 READ MORE: How will a new mayor handle Philadelphias biggest expense  pension funding  especially with a threat of recession?

Kenney, whose father was a Philly firefighter and who was elected with strong labor support, had enough credibility with the municipal unions to achieve pension reforms. He convinced them to increase employee contributions and reduce benefits for new hires, offering significant raises in return.

Budgeting for hindsight

Still, some financial decisions  or shortcomings  of the Kenney era may appear worse in retrospect. The city payroll grew exorbitantly during his first term. And the city remains dependent on the highly volatile wage tax, which could become more problematic if the exodus of office jobs from Center City continues.

Kenney also championed a new tax on sweetened beverages that raised revenue but that critics say is regressive. Additionally, his administration has struggled to fairly and consistently reassess real estate, a problem that most agree needs to be fixed before tackling broader tax reform.

 READ MORE: A timeline of Philadelphias soda tax

Sam Katz, a former Republican mayoral candidate and municipal finance expert, generally praised Kenneys handling of fiscal issues. He even went so far as to say that the beverage tax, which Katz opposed, showed the mayor was willing to pay for his priorities.

But Katz warned that while Kenney balanced the books during his time, the overall growth of city spending under his watch may look different in hindsight.

At the point in time that you ultimately face the downturn in the economy, which translates into lower tax collections, he said, we can look back and say all those good things that he did to benefit the citys employees, which they may have deserved, may then become unaffordable.
President Joe Biden speaks at an event marking the 50th anniversary of Amtrak at 30th Street Station in Philadelphia last year. Read more

Its been 53 years since a Scrantonian could take a train to New York City, but that could be changing in the next four years.

Rail service between Scranton and New York City  with stops in Northeast Pennsylvania towns in between  is one step closer to funding after the project qualified for the next step in the process Tuesday.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) announced that the project is one of a handful getting a $500,000 grant from the recent infrastructure law to develop a scope, schedule, and cost estimate for the expansion. Its inclusion in whats known as the Corridor ID program signifies the next phase in a long process but indicates the route may be well-positioned to move forward.

An Amtrak extension that would run from Philadelphia to Reading with stops in Norristown, Phoenixville, and Pottstown also secured funding for the Corridor ID planning phase.

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The projects advancement comes as Democrats look to hold onto the presidency, U.S. Sen. Bob Caseys Senate seat, and U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwrights seat in the House  three races dependent on the hotly contested region of Northeast Pennsylvania. President Joe Biden spent his early years in Scranton and has made the city part of his political brand. Casey is a Scranton native and Cartwright (D., Lackawanna), who lives in Moosic, represents the region in Congress. For all three men, the proposed rail line offers an example of the infrastructure bills potential to benefit constituents in Pennsylvania. Its a connection theyre sure to make on the campaign trail as they try to persuade voters to reelect them.

Casey called the prospect of bringing the rail line back a game-changing force for our economy, our families, and our communities, in a release Tuesday.

For generations, passenger rail service helped Northeastern Pennsylvanians connect with loved ones, get to school and work, and access economic opportunity and recreation, he said. In turn, residents of other states helped to stimulate our economy and visited our region to see the best of what we have to offer.

Casey has long advocated for the expanded service, which last existed in 1970. In 2021, Amtrak announced its largest investment in passenger rail since its creation, crediting funding from Bidens infrastructure law, which Casey and Cartwright voted for. In 2022, Casey and Cartwright led a coalition of regional partners in urging the FRA to reestablish the Scranton Rail.

The Philadelphia-to-Reading line could also have a significant impact on Pennsylvania communities where passenger train service previously ran from 1838 to 1981, when SEPTA discontinued service past Norristown.

But itll be at least a few election cycles before either line is up and running. Amtrak has said based on estimates related to planning design and construction, the service would not begin before 2028. The project still must secure the estimated $100 million to $175 million needed for track improvements and the $70 million to $90 million estimated for trains. The federal government could provide up to 80% of construction funding.

The Scranton-to-NYC Amtrak service would have intermediate stops at Stroudsburg and Mount Pocono, Pa., and at Blairstown, Dover, Montclair, Morristown, and Newark, N.J.

The proposed line would run three daily round trips lasting about two hours and 50 minutes transporting an estimated 470,000 riders per year. Trains would run on existing track, plus abandoned track to be rebuilt.

Next, backers of a restored Scranton line will prepare a detailed service plan that includes an early environmental assessment, a comparison of the proposed service to transportation alternatives, updated costs, a plan for financing the local or regional share of the cost, and who is in charge of what responsibilities.

Biden is already aiming to run on infrastructure improvements. Hes a known fan of the railways and traveled via Amtrak to campaign in Western Pennsylvania and Ohio in 2020.

Scranton was also at the center of the 2020 election, with Biden using it as a symbol for working-class voters who he hoped to win back from former President Donald Trump. Biden often called 2020 a choice between Main Street and Wall Street. Similar themes will likely be on display in Caseys Senate race as Casey takes on former Bridgewater Investments CEO Dave McCormick. McCormick had been living in Connecticut before he moved to the state to run in 2022 but has roots in both Allegheny County and Bloomsburg, which is also in the Northeast.

The region, which includes Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties, delivered Trump big numbers in 2016 but better margins for Biden there in 2020 helped deliver him the White House.

Staff writer Tom Fitzgerald contributed to this article.
Trey Barnes in front of the duplex he purchased in West Philadelphia as a first-time home buyer in 2022. Read more

A year ago, Trey Barnes bought a West Philadelphia duplex to both live in and rent out as a first-time homeowner.

Its been something, he said.

The century-old home needed plumbing, flooring, and other repairs. Since he planned to have a tenant in the upper unit, he wanted to spruce that up with new appliances and paint.

On top of that, Barnes had to deal with an unwelcome surprise. He had gotten the seller to repair a roof leak but didnt find out until months after his purchase that the leak had damaged his homes siding enough to allow water to come in that way, too.

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 READ MORE: Americas housing stock is aging: That can mean good deals but hefty repair bills.

The 29-year-old data engineer has two words of advice for fellow first-time homeowners: Cash reserves. Make sure you have your cash reserves.

For new homeowners, its all about cushions. And not the ones on the couch.

Home ownership is how most American households build wealth, but it often takes some adjustment after years of renting, especially if a buyer is the first person in their family to take the step. Here are some things first-time homeowners should keep in mind that first year.

Its always something

Theres no such thing as a perfect house, said Ben Poles, owner of Rest Assured Inspections, based in Montgomery County.

Theres always gonna be something wrong with your house. I tell people I find stuff in new construction, he said. Most stuff is just the cost of owning a house.

Like with human bodies, parts of the house wear down over time. Railings get loose. Screws need to be tightened. Floorboards may squeak. A toilet or sink may leak.

Homeowners need to at all times put a little money aside so they can pay for whatever their homes throw at them, Poles said. You just hope its minor stuff.

Start saving right away

It wont always be minor stuff.

The No. 1 thing is for homeowners to have emergency savings, said Amanda Garayua, a housing counselor and director of housing services at the Hispanic Association of Contractors and Enterprises (HACE), the community development organization based in North Philadelphia. Generally, she tells buyers to have at least three to six months of their expenses saved.

 READ MORE: Repairing all the homes in the Philly area would cost at least $3.7 billion

For first-time homeowners, what comes as a shocker is the repairs, how much home repairs can be, she said.

Buyers should hang onto their home inspection report for an idea of how much time they have to save money for certain repairs, especially major ones that cant wait for owners to build savings when they pop up.

Its always a good idea to start tucking money away as soon as possible to repair or replace the roof, one of a homes most important elements and biggest repair expenses, Poles said. Most Philadelphians spend between $5,100 and $10,700 to replace their roof, according to the home services platform Angi.

 READ MORE: Buying a fixer-upper? Heres one way to help pay for your home  and renovations, too.

Most of Philadelphias houses have flat roofs, which last about a decade before they need to be resealed, Poles said.

Water heaters, for example, also can be expensive. The national average for purchase and installation is between $1,000 and $4,000. Poles said water heaters are supposed to last about 12 years, but he tells clients to pay attention to the appliances performance, not its age.

In addition to savings, owners who qualify also can take out personal loans or use credit, as long as they pay those bills. Barnes, the West Philadelphia homeowner, said taking out a personal line of credit really saved me with repairs.

 READ MORE: Remodeling your home? Heres how to pay for it.

Prevention is key

The unexpected will happen, but preventing catastrophes through monitoring and maintenance is key.

Poles advises owners to put sensors on the floor near water heaters, washing machines, and anything else that could leak, so they are alerted to a problem as soon as possible.

You want [to catch] the trickle before you get the leak, Poles said.

 READ MORE: Skipping home inspections in a competitive market is tempting  and risky

If the home has a sump pump, it should be checked regularly to make sure its working and ready to prevent flooding and water damage.

A homes heating and ventilation system is one of the main areas owners should be vigilant about, Poles said. Its not an exciting aspect of a property, but its important in keeping the home safe and comfortable.

Most systems last 15 to 20 years, he said, but if you ignore them, then theyll die sooner.

Poles advises clients to have someone check their HVAC systems at least annually but ideally twice a year  once in the fall before the winter cold and once in the spring before the summer heat if the home has central air-conditioning.

Adjusting to home ownership

A home is a major purchase, probably the biggest a household has ever made, so give yourself time to get in the groove financially, Garayua at HACE said.

Buyers need to adjust to the lifestyle of being a homeowner, she said.

Every repair and expense is on them. They may be paying for all of the utilities for a whole house for the first time. If a home has a yard, landscaping costs add up. They have to pay property taxes for the first time.

Hopefully, a buyer has purchased a home they can own comfortably. But a big chunk of savings was most likely used to buy the home, so you have to give yourself some time to bounce back, Garayua said. New homeowners may need to pinch pennies and make some sacrifices.

They may have a list of what they want to do to make their home their own, such as furnishings, additions, or yard work. But it doesnt all have to be done in the first year, Garayua said. Pump the brakes a little bit until you can do it comfortably.

 READ MORE: How three new housing policies could help Philadelphians with home repairs and affordability

She warns against overspending on cosmetic updates the first year and advises homeowners to wait at least a year for big projects if possible. Its natural for new homeowners to want to show off for family and friends, but at the end of the day, they dont pay your bills, she said.

Garayua said the No. 1 thing first-time homeowners come to HACE about is their escrow account. They arent prepared for their mortgage payments to increase, because they think those payments are unchanging, unlike rent. They dont realize there are four components of the monthly payment. The principal payment on the loan and the interest dont change, as long as the rate is fixed, but property taxes and home insurance can change and increase monthly payments.

And sometimes [the mortgage] may not be affordable after a few years to the person who bought it, Garayua said.

 READ MORE: Buying a home? Heres what to expect at the closing.

Seeking support

Homeowners also should know there is a range of assistance available to property owners, such as home repair programs, property tax breaks, and mortgage aid. Abraham Reyes Pardo, vice president of the Urban League of Philadelphias office of housing and diversion services, said first-generation buyers who have an emergency and miss a mortgage payment or two immediately go into crisis mode.

 READ MORE: In one chaotic courtroom, free counselors and attorneys have saved 11,000 Philly homes from foreclosure

They tend to misperceive what are the implications of missing a mortgage payment vs. missing rent, said Reyes Pardo, who also is a housing counselor.

Housing counseling agencies can offer guidance and help connect homeowners with assistance in addition to helping people become homeowners.

 READ MORE: How to get a first-time home-buyer grant in the Philly region

Barnes in West Philadelphia took first-time home buyer classes through the Urban League of Philadelphia, which also helped him pay for his home.

And fortunately, as a new homeowner, he also has been able to rely on the experiences and advice of his parents and older brother, who all own multiple properties. The support system, he said, is priceless.

 READ MORE: Philly brings back its popular first-time home buyer grant program
Regulatory developments in the region

Regarding regulatory changes, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) recently classified four major insurers as too big to fail, increasing regulatory scrutiny on them. Decision-makers were asked about strategies to ensure insurers in Singapore and Hong Kong do not pose broader market risks through insolvencies. While there was no dominant preferred approach, increased regulatory requirements were the most cited answer (27%), particularly among smaller firms (< US$1 billion AUM), who overwhelmingly supported this view (50%).
Whilst the initial demand for Novideas platform came from global brokers who need a more efficient way to integrate their operations, both worldwide and between markets, we also support carriers, regional brokers and larger MGAs looking to accelerate their growth, Potts said.
Sutherland's leadership has been instrumental in the growth and efficiency of the B4B platform, which boasts a subscriber base of over 3,000 brokers. Through the systematic implementation of long-term strategies, she has not only expanded B4B's portfolio but has also aided in the introduction of the innovative ExpressCover platform, reflecting a commitment to continuous improvement and adaptability.
The introduction of the CPD certification for Dive In events, as well as the rollout of Dive In to Reverse Mentoring, the first cross-industry reverse mentoring scheme, truly showcases the impact of the festival on our industry. Its now been nine years since the sector hosted its first Dive In event and we expect the 10th anniversary next year to be extra special as we celebrate a decade of impact, Christian said.
icare takes seriously its duty to provide an affordable and sustainable workers compensation scheme, and any recovery actions we, or our Claims Service Providers take against negligent third parties would have a positive financial impact that is likely to reduce, rather than increase an employers future workers compensation insurance premiums, said the spokesperson. As a public Workers Compensation insurer, worker to worker claims do not routinely fall within our workers compensation scheme, which provides a wide range of coverage for injured workers and their private employers in New South Wales.
What this all boils down to is that people want somebody to talk to, to ask sensible questions and receive limited help and support in making decisions around their life insurance, said Cupitt. We really think that life insurers are well placed and stand ready to help their customers navigate their decisions around life insurance.
We warmly welcome Nicole to the growing POP team, Rogers said. As we cement our position as a leading global boutique data and tech-enabled M&A and specialty insurance services group, it is crucial to bolster our people and strategic operations and align them with our tech capabilities, so we remain resilient and competitive in the long term. Moving into the new year, we are confident that with a solid strategy across the organisation, we will grow the business to new heights and deliver on our promises to customers, partner insurers, distributors, and advisors.
These findings are concerning, as they suggest that a significant number of Australians are putting themselves at risk by travelling without considering potential health and safety risks or purchasing travel insurance, said ICA CEO Andrew Hall. Things we take for granted in Australia, such as the public health system, are not free or even available to you once you leave the country. Personal responsibility plays a big part in your travel plans, and its important to read the details of your policy, so you know you are covered.
personalized service;

understanding clients needs for coverage;

getting the best value for money;

dealing with the headache of claims;

fast and easy communication; and

being proactive and suggesting additional areas of coverage.

The most voted-for brokers who received an average score of 8 or higher were named IBA Top Insurance Brokers and Agents for 2023, recognized based on the service they provided to their clients rather than simply on revenue.
This collaboration with NetSPI provides clients with peace of mind, enabling them to identify vulnerabilities, security issues, and exposure to risk before it escalates into a claim, said Craig Guiliano, vice president of cybersecurity threat intelligence. This value-added solution is part of Chubb's efforts to proactively identify cyber exposures that are difficult to detect using common scanning tools and to strengthen our policyholders' security posture more broadly.
A fiery crash on Interstate 93 in New Hampshire set off hundreds of rounds of ammunition before firefighters were able to douse the blaze, state police said.

State Police received a report of a vehicle being driven erratically Saturday afternoon before hitting a concrete barrier, bouncing across all lanes of traffic and colliding with another vehicle. The vehicle came to a stop in woods near the highway, where a fire erupted, troopers said.

All three occupants escaped the vehicle. Troopers said one was taken to a hospital with significant injuries; one occupant was arrested on several warrants.

There were no injuries to the occupant of the other vehicle, troopers said.

As the vehicle burned, several hundred rounds of ammunition began detonating before firefighters arrived to contain the blaze, which shut down several lanes of travel, troopers said.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Auto New Hampshire
Indian businessman Prateek Gupta asked a London judge on Tuesday to lift an order freezing his personal and business assets, alleging that commodity trader Trafigura failed to disclose full information when it sought the injunction.

In a court document, Trafigura rejected the allegations, saying that its demand was the product of meticulous investigation.

Below are the main issues in the court case.

LEGAL ACTIONS

Geneva-based Trafigura, a major industrial metals and oil trader, filed a lawsuit against Gupta in February, alleging that it had been victim of a $600-million fraud masterminded by Gupta and in which he and his companies participated.

Trafigura said it contracted with seven Gupta-owned companies to purchase nickel and paid for it, but the companies deliberately shipped much less valuable material.

Lawyers for Gupta in July rejected Trafiguras allegations.

In February, a London court imposed a $625 million global freezing order on bank accounts and other assets tied to Gupta and the companies, including those in Britain, Malaysia, Singapore and Switzerland.

That order is the subject of the court hearing on Tuesday.

The case comes against a background of a market struggling to fully recover from the crisis caused by a chaotic spike in nickel prices in March 2022. The case also prompted property and metals tycoons the Reuben brothers to seek $8.4 million in damages from Trafigura.

THE DEALS IN QUESTION

Trafigura entered into a series of nickel trading deals with Guptas firms over several years. Most of the deals involved transit finance, in which Trafigura bought nickel from Guptas companies and sold it back to them at a future date for a higher price.

This would earn Trafigura a return equivalent to the interest on the value of that nickel over the period the commodity trader owned the metal. Trafigura had the option of selling it on the open market.

For several years, Trafiguras deals with Guptas firms were supported by finance from Citi, which has declined to comment on the case.

According to Trafigura, its relationship with Guptas firms began to deteriorate during 2021-2022 as the need for bank financing rose and shipping time lengthened.

In October 2022, Citi withdrew its financial support for any new trades between Trafigura and Guptas firms.

On 9 November 2022, Trafigura inspected certain containers which were supposed to contain nickel. They did not, Trafigura said.

In June, Trafiguras metals division booked a $590 million impairment in its financial results in connection with the case.

GUPTAS DEFENCE AND TRAFIGURAS REACTION

In a court document released on Tuesday, Gupta alleged that employees at Trafigura worked with him to keep secret the deal to substitute nickel with scrap and other lower-value metal. He produced chat exchanges and emails with Trafigura staff that he alleges are proof that he was not alone in the deal.

Trafigura said in a separate document that Guptas new evidence was vague and did not prove that its staff knew about the substitution.

It also said that Guptas allegation did not disclose a properly arguable defense and was commercially preposterous.

Since Trafigura filed the lawsuit, some of the managers at the metals unit left the company, and Trafigura reshuffled its senior leadership positions, giving its energy trading unit more power at a senior level.

(Reporting by Polina Devitt, additional reporting by Eric Onstad; editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise)

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Topics Lawsuits Fraud
NOW Insurance, an artificial intelligence-enabled commercial insurance platform specializing in medical professional liability coverage, recently launched coverage for physicians and physician groups in their online platform. Select brokers can now shop for and bind coverage for physician and medical group clients.

The online platforms underwriting process allows brokers to receive a quote using only the physicians or groups NPI number. No application is needed.

The platform gathers nearly all the information needed to effectively underwrite this class without an application, lifting a burden off the broker and their clients. The data that informs the underwriting is more robust, and crucially, more accurate, than anything else in the market, said Patrick ODoherty, executive VP of underwriting.

Clean accounts will return a quote in just minutes, a major improvement over traditional malpractice quoting, which can take weeks of information gathering and back and forth with an underwriter. Brokers and teams can manage all their opportunities in one place, check status, and communicate with an underwriter inside the portal.

Were confident both brokers and physicians will be impressed with the efficiency and the coverage, said Philip Cabaud, CEO and founder.

In addition to standard coverage for typical full-time physicians, the company set out to target holes in the current malpractice market. In the modern healthcare landscape, many physicians find themselves engaging in part-time work, multi-modal practice (parts of which another carrier may not cover if its outside of the stated specialty), telemedicine across states, and other unique situations. NOW said physicians are avoiding providing care in creative ways because the state of malpractice insurance hasnt kept up with the rapid pace of technology and innovation in our healthcare system. With average malpractice lawsuit payouts measuring in the hundreds of thousands, they simply cant afford to.

NOWs machine-learning technology has successfully written allied health risks since the companys launch in 2020. The company currently writes over 1,000 policies per month. Once physicians coverage proved successful, the technology easily rolled up to medical groups. The company has plans to add more products to its broker portal over the next year.
The University of Pennsylvania was sued by a pair of students who claim the campus was a hotbed of antisemitism even before Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7.

Penn became the third major US college, after New York University and the University of California at Berkeley, to face lawsuits in the last month claiming the schools put Jewish students at risk amid campus protests over the Israel-Hamas war.

Undergraduates Eyal Yakoby and Jordan Davis claim Penn committed egregious violations of federal civil rights law by selectively enforcing its rules of conduct to avoid protecting Jewish students from hatred and harassment. It also hired rabidly antisemitic professors and ignored students pleas for protection, according to the complaint filed Tuesday in Philadelphia federal court.

Campus antisemitism was turbocharged when Hamas, which the US and European Union call a terrorist group, killed more than 1,200 Israelis and abducted about 240, according to the complaint. About 15,900 people have died in Gaza amid airstrikes and a ground assault by Israeli forces in response, according to Gazan officials.

Penns Tolerance

Emboldened by years of Penns tolerance and enabling of antisemitism, and deliberate indifference to Jewish students complaints, Penn students and faculty openly support and extol Hamass atrocities, according to the complaint.

Just two days ago, an antisemitic student mob rampaged across Penns campus, chanting for the destruction of Israel and scrawling the words intifada, blood thirsty and shame on the walls of Penn buildings, according to the complaint.

The lawsuit was filed shortly after Penn President Liz Magill testified on Capitol Hill at a congressional hearing focused on antisemitism at her school, Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The committee started the hearing by showing a video clip of protests at the three schools.

Magill said Penn must ensure that the schools academic freedom and free exchange of ideas endure. She vowed to uphold free speech while protecting students.

We recognize the right of peaceful protest and assembly, and we give broad protection to free expression  even expression that is offensive, Magill said in remarks prepared for the House Education and Workforce Committee. At the same time, we have zero tolerance for violence or speech intended to incite it.

A Penn spokesman said the university hasnt reviewed the lawsuit yet and doesnt comment on pending litigation.

Harvard President

Harvard President Claudine Gay and MIT President Sally Kornbluth also testified Tuesday, saying they wont tolerate antisemitism. All three schools have appointed antisemitism task forces. The US Education Department is investigating possible discrimination based on shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics at universities including Penn, Harvard, Cornell, Columbia, and Cooper Union.

Penn, an Ivy League school in Philadelphia, has been the site of controversy since hosting the Palestine Writes Literature Festival in September. Alumnus Marc Rowan, Apollo Global Management Inc.s chief executive officer, has called on donors to withhold support until Magill and Scott Bok, chair of the board of trustees, resign.

The underlying culture that permitted this to happen is so strong, he said on Bloomberg Television.

The students sued under Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which bars discrimination based on race, color or national origin. They also sued for breach of contract based on various Penn policies, including the student code of conduct and the faculty handbook.

The complaint, drafted by Kasowitz Benson Torres LLP, asks a judge to order Penn to terminate faculty and administrators responsible for the antisemitic abuse permeating the school and suspend or expel students who engage in such conduct.

Photograph: The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, Penn. Photo credit: Hannah Beier/Bloomberg

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.

Topics Lawsuits Education Universities
AUSTIN, Texas (AP)  A Texas prosecutor whose office oversaw indictments against more than 20 Austin police officers for tactics used during the 2020 protests that followed George Floyd`s killing said Monday he was dropping most of the cases and would ask the Justice Department to investigate instead.

The announcement is a sharp reversal for Travis County District Attorney Jose Garza, a progressive who was elected months after the protests and ran on promises to hold police accountable in the Texas capital. Garza, a Democrat, said his office would dismiss indictments against 17 officers but still move forward with prosecuting four others.

The slate of felony charges were by far the most indictments of officers from a single U.S. police department following nationwide protests in 2020 over racial injustice and police brutality. Some Austin police officers fired beanbag rounds in the crowd, critically injuring one teenager.

This has been a difficult chapter for Austin. I look forward to turning the page. These announcements will allow police officers, whose lives were upended by the indictments, to return to their services to our community, said Austin Mayor Kirk Watson, a Democrat who was not in office at the time of the protests.

In a statement, Garza did not explain why he was deciding now to drop most of the cases. Many of the officers were indicted in February 2022, none had gone to trial and Republican Gov. Greg Abbott had floated the idea of pardons after the charges were handed down by a grand jury.

Garza said his office would continue to hold law enforcement who break the law accountable. In a letter to the Justice Department, Garza asked prosecutors to review Austin polices use of force for crowd control during the protests.

Ken Ervin, an attorney who represents nine officers whose charges will be dismissed, called the indictments a combination of politics and incompetence.

Mr. Garza has not really taken the chance to educate himself on police tactics,  Ervin said. Maybe hes finally done that.

Despite widespread claims of heavy-handed or even illegal police tactics across the U.S. following the 2020 protests, few cities pursued charges. Two Dallas officers faced charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and official oppression, and a New York police officer was charged with assault after shoving a woman to the ground.

In October, a former Minneapolis police officer was sentenced to 15 days in the county workhouse, with eligibility for electronic home monitoring, after pleading guilty to assaulting a Black man during the unrest that followed Floyd`s murder.

The City of Austin has paid out more than $18 million to settle lawsuits brought by protesters injured during the protests, including a college student who suffered brain damage after an officer shot him with a beanbag round. Eight other lawsuits are still pending, according to the city.

Austin Police Association President Michael Bullock said prosecutors had yet to prove any case where any officer committed wrongdoing.

Our officers were faced with incredible and unprecedented challenges. In those extremely difficult times they acted within the law and upheld their oath to keep our city safe, Bullock said.

The indictments widened the rift in Austin between police and Garza, whose 2020 campaign was backed by liberal allies including U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders and promised crackdowns on misconduct by law enforcement.

Garza was among a handful of progressive prosecutors who won office in 2020, when the police killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and others sparked a national outcry over law enforcements treatment of Black people. He said the charges in Austin were not politically driven and emphasized that his office prosecuted more than 30 non-officers who also participated in the protests.

The announcement by Garza comes weeks after a mistrial was declared in a high- profile trial involving an Austin police officer who was charged with murder in the death of Michael Ramos, who was unarmed and shot as he tried to drive away from police who were attempting to arrest him in April 2020. The case was prosecuted by Garza`s office and ended after jurors were unable to reach a verdict.

Weeks after Ramos` death, demonstrators in Austin invoked his name when they took to the streets to protest the killing of Floyd.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Texas Law Enforcement
kWh Analytics, headquartered in San Francisco, Calif., named Isaac McLean as the companys chief underwriting officer.

McLean has more than 18 years of insurance experience, previously serving as head of property insurance at kWh Analytics.

Before joining kWh Analytics, McLean spent 14 years at ICAT Managers, most recently in the role of senior product manager, residential.

Topics California Underwriting
Source: Streetwise Reports

December 6, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) This company say is it has finished its Phase 2 of pit geotechnical drilling at its Wicheeda rare earth element project (REE) in British Columbia. Find out why so much of the world needs these elements.

Defense Metals Corp. (DEFN:TSX.V; DFMTF:OTCQB; 35D:FSE) announced it has finished its Phase 2 of pit geotechnical drilling at its Wicheeda rare earth element project (REE) in British Columbia.

That data and data from a 503 line-kilometer airborne magnetic and radiometric survey taken over a 45-square-kilometer area of the project have been delivered to the company's team for review. The company said it would release results as available.

"We ... are encouraged that open pit geotechnical drilling has intersected significant widths of REE mineralized carbonatite within the western pit wall not previously known," said Defense Metals President and Chief Executive Officer Craig Taylor. The ongoing Wicheeda Project PFS (preliminary feasibility) study remains on target for completion at the end of Q2 2024, and the data gathered as part of this drilling campaign will provide key inputs to inform the open pit slope design work by SRK."

The company's team is currently ranking targets for drilling next year, he said.

Defense also recently released a significant upgrade to the mineralization of the project with a new mineral resource estimate for Wicheeda.

Noble Capital Markets analyst Mark Reichman said the company was "on a positive trajectory going into 2024."

"The 2023 mineral resource estimate ... is a significant upgrade compared to the previous estimate and can be included in the mine plan for the preliminary feasibility study that is expected to be completed in the first half of 2024," he wrote.

"Coupled with a larger and upgraded mineral resource estimate, Defense Metals is advancing toward what we think will be a compelling preliminary feasibility study," continued Reichman, who has rated Defense's stock Outperform with a CA$0.70 per share target price. "Near-term, we look forward to results from the Phase II geotechnical drilling program."

The updated MRE increased the total rare earth oxide (TREO) by 17% at Wicheeda, or a 31% tonnage increase, compared to a prior MRE in 2021.

The MRE comprised a 6.4 million tonne Measured Mineral Resource, averaging 2.86% TREO; a 27.8 million tonne Indicated Mineral Resource, averaging 1.84% TREO; and an 11.1 million tonne Inferred Mineral Resource, averaging 1.02% TREO.

The results are reported at a cut-off grade of 0.5% TREO within a conceptual open pit shell, the company said.

The Catalyst: A New Anomaly Found

Defense Metals said that during the campaign, it completed six diamond drill holes totaling 1,182 meters within the Wicheeda REE Deposit pit shell, including four open pit geochemical drill holes totaling 920 meters and additional near-mine exploration holes totaling 262 meters.

"South and west pit wall drill holes WI23-81 and WI23-82 intersected significant widths of visibly REE-mineralized dolomite carbonatite from surface over core intervals of 54 meters and 21 meters, followed by a 65-meter core interval of xenolithic-dolomite carbonatite," the company said in a release. "Drilling of WI23-82 into the west pit wall of the Wicheeda Deposit was successful (in testing) a new ground radiometric anomaly."

The company also said it cut nine sonic overburden drill holes totaling 160 meters and 14 test pits totaling 62 meters designed to support shallow soil subsurface and bedrock foundations for potential future waste rock storage, a mineralization stockpile, a contact water pond (CWP), a crusher, a processing plant, and tailings storage facility (TSF) locations.

Defense is currently mobilizing to complete Phase 3 of the sonic overburden and test pit campaign with ten sonic overburden drill holes and three test pits. This program is expected to be completed in four weeks.

Reichman also noted that Defense had shipped samples from Wicheeda to potential customers and partners as it works toward securing future offtake agreements.

"With permitting progress and a feasibility study imminent next year, the analyst sees Defense Metals on a positive trajectory," Reichman wrote. "Its financial position remains strong after another quarter of exploration spending, ending September with CA$7.6 million in cash."

Taking on China

China accounts for as much as 70% of current REE mine production and more than 85% of the refined output of REEs. Defense Metals looks to produce as much as 10% of the world's needs for the elements when it hits full production.

REEs are in high demand as the economy shifts toward clean energy. They are used for purifying water, MRIs, fertilizers, weapons, scientific research, wind turbines, computers, and permanent magnet motors for EVs. But it can take years to develop a mine into production.

China has been upping the ante in the faceoff, saying it will standardize its REE industry and already has put restrictions on the exports of some of the substances.

In October, Beijing announced that it would require permits for some graphite products used in electric vehicle (EV) batteries, to protect national security. Last summer, China instituted export restrictions on gallium and germanium, important to the semiconductor industry, after President Joe Biden had barred the sale of some advanced chips and chip-making technology to China.

"We're in a cold war essentially on the trade front now," Jeff Green, a defense industry consultant and Washington lobbyist, told The Washington Post. "I think the U.S. government is responding in kind."

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo warned recently, according to The Post, that "China has a head start, and that means we have to work a little harder and a little faster. They have the technology and sustained investment ... to dominate the market for critical minerals. And we all know, if China were to point that new direction unfavorable to us, it can cause a great deal of pain very quickly."

The global market for the elements is expected to grow from US$2.6 billion in 2020 to US$5.5 billion in 2028, according to a report by Fortune Business Insights.

"The rising demand for consumer durables such as tablets, laptops, and smartphones (are some) of the factors driving the consumption of rare earth elements," the report said. "The demand for these elements in developing economies is estimated to expand rapidly."

Ownership and Share Structure

About 5% of the company's stock is owned by insiders, including Director Andrew S. Burgess with 1.63% or 4.18 million shares, and CEO Taylor with 0.98% or 2.5 million shares, according to Reuters.

About 11% of the company is owned by institutional entities, including RCF Opportunities Fund II LP, with 10%, the company said. The rest, 84%, is retail.

Defense Metals has a market cap of CA$51.16 million with 255.78 million shares outstanding and 212.98 million free floating. It trades in a 52-week range of CA$0.39 and CA$0.18.

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Source: Timothy Lee

December 6, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) This is expected to come on the heels of the Canadian silver producer resuming operations after a nearly three-month halt during Q3/23, noted a Red Cloud Securities report.

Silver X Mining Corp. (AGX:TSX.V) released its Q3/23 financials and got a target price boost to CA$0.80 per share from CA$0.75 by Red Cloud Securities after it updated its valuation of the Canadian metals producer, reported mining analyst Timothy Lee in a November 30 research note.

"These results are about in line with expectations," Lee wrote.

Compelling Return Implied

Compared to the new target price, Silver X's current price is about CA$0.27 per share, noted Lee. From here, the return to target represents a significant gain for investors of 196%.

Red Cloud rates the company Buy.

Numbers as Expected

Lee reviewed British Columbia-based miner's key financial figures from Q3/23.

Silver X reported a net loss of US$1.5 million (US$1.5M), or (US$0.01) per share, consistent with Red Cloud's forecast.

In Q3/23, revenue was down as expected year over year (YOY) because the miner temporarily halted production between July 26, 2023 and September 19, 2023 to evaluate and optimize its operations in Peru. The company's revenue in the third quarter was US$2.1M; a year earlier, it was more than double this amount, at US$5.5M.

Silver X experienced an operating loss in Q3/23 of US$0.8M, whereas, in Q3/22, it achieved an operating gain of US$2M.

"Production, since the resumption of operations, has been returning to the highs seen before the break," Lee reiterated.

Q3/23 cash costs averaged US$22.01 per ounce of silver equivalent (US$22.01/oz Ag eq). The all-in sustaining cost was US$33.45/oz Ag eq. US$11.44/oz Ag eq, or US$1.3M, of this was sustaining capex for development work at the Tangana mining unit.

Near-Term Outlook Positive

Given Silver X has been rapidly increasing production since restarting it on Sept. 20, Lee wrote an "upswing" is expected in Q4/23.

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Source: Streetwise Reports

December 6, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp. is accelerating its exploration plans for next year after closing a deal for a US$90 million (equivalent in Argentine pesos) investment by big-three automaker Stellantis (formerly Chrysler).

Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp. (LIT:TSX.V; PNXLF:OTC; OAY3:FSE) announced its accelerated exploration plans for next year after closing a deal for a US$90 million (equivalent in Argentine pesos) investment by big-three automaker Stellantis (formerly Chrysler).

Its goal is to advance its highly prospective lithium projects in Argentina toward production to meet the growing demand for the element by the battery sector. The company said the Stellantis deal gives it the financial resources to make major strides.

LIT plans to complete up to 30 drill holes at its massive Antofalla North project, with a goal of assessing its lithium resource potential once permits are secured. The 11th of 20 planned exploration drill holes is also underway at LIT's flagship Rincon West project.

"Our 2023 fieldwork focused on drilling Rincon West and was extremely successful in identifying lithium-rich brines and advancing the project," Argentina Lithium Vice President of Exploration Miles Rideout said. "At the same time, we assembled the large Antofalla North property package adjacent and to the north of Albemarle Corp's lithium project, and now that we are funded (by the Stellantis deal), we will be as aggressive as possible to advance the project alongside Rincon West."

The company said Antofalla North is undrilled, though it has been explored with geophysical techniques to 500 meters depth.

Argentina Lithium "hopes to delineate another major source of lithium in brines at Antofalla," Rideout said.

'We Have Cleared the Biggest Hurdle'

Argentina Lithium's projects are all within the Lithium Triangle in the Argentinian provinces of Salta and Catamarca. They include Rincon West, Antofalla North, Pocitos, and Incahuasi. All are "salar" properties where the company hopes to produce lithium carbonate from brines enriched in lithium. They are all currently at the exploration stage.

The Stellantis umbrella includes iconic brands like Chrysler, Alfa Romeo, Citroen, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep, Maserati, and Peugeot. After the investment, Peugeot Citroen Argentina SA, a Stellantis subsidiary, owns 19.9% of the LIT's Argentine subsidiary (ALE), and Argentina Lithium owns 80.1%.

Stellantis will buy up to 15,000 tonnes per year of any future lithium produced by ALE over a seven-year period in an agreement that may be extended by the companies.

"We have cleared the biggest hurdle for any junior today, which is having financing secured for all the planned exploration activity, to the tune of up to (US$15 million) next year alone if we complete all of our plans," Argentina Lithium Chief Executive Officer Nikolaos Cacos said. "In fact, the Stellantis funding is expected to carry us through exploration drilling to potential resource definition and initial engineering study stages at Rincon West and Antofalla North, allowing us to build value with minimal dilution for our investors."

The company also has announced that it has exercised option agreements to obtain 100% interest in key properties totaling nearly 24,000 hectares at Rincon West, Antofalla North, and Pocitos.

The Catalyst: A 'Fast and Furious' Transition

Stellantis' investment in Argentina Lithium highlights a belief in the approaching shortage of the element that will be needed for electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

The EV transition is "coming fast and furious," Cacos has said.

Lithium is a soft, silvery metal with highly reactive and flammable properties. It's also used to strengthen alloys, as a high-temperature lubricant, and as a drug to treat bipolar disorder.

Analysts from Eight Capital predicted that lithium market deficits will widen this decade, and the shortfalls will be driven by demand in North America.

The United States' EV penetration of 6% lags behind China's 26% and Europe's 20%, analysts Anoop Prihar and Alex Riazanov of Eight Capital wrote in a research note. But President Joe Biden's administration has committed to a target of 50% of new vehicle sales being EVs by 2030.

"We anticipate the fundamentals underlying lithium demand to remain robust," the analysts wrote.

Ownership and Share Structure

The company doesn't officially share any information regarding management or institutional ownership, but Reuters reported that about 37% was owned by strategic institutions in the most recent reporting.

Its largest shareholders are Lithium Investment Partners LP with 17.68%, Jack Yetiv with 15.12%, Joseph J. Grosso with 3.03%, and the CEO Cacos with 1.03%, according to Reuters.

Its market cap is CA$52.46 million, with 131.16 million shares outstanding. It trades in a 52-week range of CA$0.63 and CA$0.19.

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Finance Minister Michael McGrath has not ruled out seeking an EU job in the future amid recent media reports that Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe is considering a role with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

On the RTE radio show Morning Ireland, Mr McGrath said he is committed to delivering another budget as finance minister but did not deny he would pursue a job as a European Commissioner in the coming years.
Farming can be a lonely and isolating activity for many.

For 23-year-old Kieran Lynch, however, he is lucky that he has people working with him on the Macroom Buffalo Cheese farm and in the production facilities on site, allowing him to get a lot more interaction than regular farmers.

Also keeping him plenty of company are some of the friendly 750 buffaloes belonging to the farms herd in Co Cork.

As the first buffalo farm in Ireland when Johnny Lynch, Kierans father, first imported 31 water buffaloes from Northern Italy to West Cork, it was certainly daunting  but he felt the farm was better positioned to adapt the enterprise to suit buffaloes rather than sheep.

Price of milk

There was a Friesian herd on the farm up until 2009.

The price of milk at the time was terrible, it was somewhere around 20c/litre, Kieran Lynch said.

Mozzarella at the time was only being imported from Italy, there were no Irish brands making it and the opportunity came up basically to bring in buffaloes and start making mozzarella here.

There was great interest for it from the start, there has always been demand for the cheese.

We havent had to do much marketing at all until we started doing some recently just because it was kind of unusual.

Picture: Dan Linehan

The buffalo herd has now grown to well over 700 buffaloes, across six different farms, Mr Lynch explained.

We started off with just our own farm, which is about 140 acres. As we got deals with supermarkets, we had to increase year-on-year, so theres about 700 acres now.

Buffalo milk v cow's milk

Traditionally, mozzarella always comes from buffalo milk. It originates from Italy.

The farms other main products are buffaloumi which is similar to halloumi, a Greek-style cheese, ricotta, and cheddar.

There have been 650,000 litres of buffalo milk processed through the plant in 2023.

The cheese is made on the home farm.

It was a huge headache at the start because my father was a farmer but didnt have much knowledge previously about making or selling cheese so there was a lot of stress in the first few years getting around all of that, Mr Lynch said.

He explained that with buffalo milk, there is a lot more fat along with extra protein in it compared to cows milk.

Its a lot stronger milk than cows milk and you notice that in soft cheese like mozzarella.

Water buffalo heading out for grazing in the drying and frosty fields. Picture: Dan Linehan

Buffalos are similar build to regular milking cows, noticeably a bit stockier, probably on average 700kg at mature weight, Mr Lynch said.

Weve the exact same parlour just with a couple of extra frames of supports inside there to keep the thing together, because theyre quite a strong animal, he explained.

They milk a good bit less than a regular cow, I think were averaging maybe 2,800 litres per lactation. Currently, our calving interval is over 13 months.

Buffalos have less milk, according to Mr Lynch, but it takes roughly the same amount of time to milk them, due to narrower teat canals making it a bit slower of a process.

There are positives to that too because they get much less mastitis because the canals are so much smaller, he said.

Health-wise, you can have issues with young buffalo calves. For the first few weeks, you have to really keep an eye on them.

The mature animals are very hardy, they rarely get any diseases.

Hardy animals

With thicker skin and striking horns, these hardy animals are happy to be outside every month of the year  but just like with any farm, you wouldnt have them out in December normally, theyd destroy the ground and you wont have any grass the following year.

This year they had to come in early and theyre out grazing now at the moment but that will probably only last another couple of weeks and theyll be back in eating haylage then, similar to regular cattle, Mr Lynch said.

We try to have them out 10 months, that depends on the weather every year.

Theyre being fed haylage while theyre inside, the flavour of silage comes through in the milk and that affects the taste of the cheese then and none of your customers are happy when there are changes to the product so haylage gives a more consistent product.

The business still has the majority of the buffalos in Ireland.

By next year, it will be milking on three farms and there are also three support farms involved.

Venturing into yoghurt production

From January, the business will be launching yoghurt as well  natural, for a start, generally we dont like using additives for the products, Mr Lynch said.

We were very seriously considering doing ice-cream instead. Weve done lots of trials with ice-cream and people loved it.

Its a very seasonal product, but yoghurt, people in Ireland consume it all year so it will be a much more constant product that we could be producing.

Mr Lynch came back from a year in Australia this year and upon his return, the whole place was hectic enough since I got back, he said.

While he was gone, there were extra acres taken on, loads of new machines, and a new product on the horizon.

There has been three-quarters of a million capital investment in the plant, just completed and ready for development.

As the business is located in the Gaeltacht, Udaras na Gaeltachta has been very good in supporting with that investment.

OTuama Tours runs tours of the farm, which attracts many spectators.

Some visit the farm with an interest in setting up a similar business  but when they hear the amount of work and investment thats required they normally dont go far with it, according to Mr Lynch.

However, if more people were to start up, it could pose an opportunity for us as well to source more milk from someone in the future.

Were expanding our product range so it would be great to have extra volume to be able to work with when youve already got the machines in place to produce more products, Mr Lynch added.
It's fair to say that this is a huge week for five-year-old Sara Higgins from County Cork.

It started with major surgery for craniosynostosis at Dublins Temple Street hospital, then a gorgeous photograph of her standing on the steps of the hospital went viral, and finally this Friday, shell take to the stage for her Christmas show at St Columbas Girls' School in Douglas where shes been practicing her rendition of 'Starry Night' for the past few weeks.

Her mother Diane Higgins says Sara is determined not to miss it.

She has her Christmas jumper ready and is determined to go, the mum-of-three explains. If she has the confidence to do it, Im happy for her. Shes been through a lot but shes always smiling. Its good to be on the other side of the operation. A lot of children like Sara, who have been through the wars often have no interest in staying in bed."

"She wants to get out into the world and make the most of the good times.

Sara is no stranger to hospital visits. Its the second time shes had this type of surgery which helps bring more volume to her skull so that her brain continues to develop normally.

Sara last month before her most recent operation.

Born with Muenkes Syndrome, Sara has other challenges including hearing loss and vision impairment but developmentally her mother says she is 100%. She first had treatment for craniosynostosis with an operation that fits distractors to her head which are slowly turned to make gaps to help new bone grow, when she was just six months old. Sara may need more surgeries like this in the future.

We didnt know about Saras condition until she was born," says Diane, who runs her own graphic design company, Diane Higgins Designs.

"And luckily it was immediately apparent, so we were able to get treatment quickly, Time is of the essence in cases like this. On reflection, I felt it was a good thing I didnt know, she says.

Im glad I wasnt stressed during the pregnancy. It was a bit of a shock of course, as Sara is our third child, and the others were routine pregnancies, but CUMH was great and was able to tell straight away what she needed."

Gorgeous

But when Dianes husband Kevin tweeted a picture of Sara standing on the steps of Temple Street Childrens hospital holding a bunch of brightly coloured balloons, neither of them were prepared for the hundreds of responses that would come their way.

Extremely proud of this warrior after a tough week #muenkesyndrome pic.twitter.com/e2GqjTS5T6  Kevin Higgins (@higginskev) December 3, 2023

We were blown away by the traction that the picture received, Diane admits. But we also felt it was a brilliant opportunity to raise awareness and to use Saras plight to encourage people to donate blood. Sara needed one unit of blood when she had her first surgery and then two more recently. Its so important to ask people to come forward and donate blood whenever they can.

Dianes brother had sent the balloons to Sara while she was in hospital which gave her a huge boost. But Diane believes there is one main reason why the picture of Sara went viral.

Sara in recovery at Temple Street

Because shes gorgeous, the mum of three smiles. And because Sara represents hope and positivity. Shes lost her hair during this operation and has been through a lot, but is still smiling as she stands on the steps ready to head home.

Now the family hopes that more can be done to raise awareness for the craniofacial department at Temple Street Childrens Hospital too.

The department is just fantastic, Diane says. But like many other areas in the health service, its understaffed and theres a backlog because of covid. Dr Murray who heads it up is amazing, but hes the only surgeon there, and compared to other countries that deal with so many cases, the department is under-resourced. We just want Saras journey to highlight the importance of supporting this department and all the wonderful staff at Temple Street.

Sara and her mum Diane at the bake sale for Temple Street which raised more than 13k

Sara herself is also rolling up her little sleeves. In the past two years, shes been a key contributor to the Bake for Temple Street fundraising drive, bringing in a whopping 13k for the hospital. She absolutely loves baking, Diane says, and is even asking Santa for a freezer this year because she just loves to cook and have all her kitchen bits.

But Diane says there are misconceptions about facial difference. As a society, we have a way to go to accept those who look different, she admits.

If you think about it, villains in movies are often depicted with scars and a lot of people use makeup to intentionally create scars and artificial facial disfiguration at Halloween to seem scarier. So there is a lot to do when it comes to ensuring those with facial difference arent treated in a way that isolates.

Delicate

Diane has always maintained that being open and honest with Sara and those who are curious about her condition has worked well for the family. We had a word with Sara that if anyone asks about her scar or her hair being gone after the surgery, we just tell them the truth that she had an operation to help her head feel better.

Luckily, we havent come across anything ill-intentioned. Sometimes the questions she gets arent about the shape of her head, but people might ask about hear hearing aids, for example. We always tell her the same thing  explain that it helps you feel better.

Being open and honest seems to work to satisfy curiosity. Sara has loads of friends at school and has been receiving videos from her classmates. But if anyone ever plays rough, she knows how to explain to them in her own words.

She says that she has a delicate head. She says she has to mind it.

For more information on blood donation see @Giveblood_ie

For more on Craniosynostosis @CranioIreland
The sister of an Irish woman missing in Portugal will stress the need for support from Irish authorities in such cases on Wednesday.

Jean Tighe from Cavan disappeared on July 13, 2020. For the past three years, the Tighe family have been pushing for action from the Portuguese police to pursue Jeans case. She was 38 years old when she was last seen in Parede near Lisbon.

She was on her second visit to the area that year and had booked a flight on July 12 to return home to Ireland. However, she has not been seen since leaving the Help Yourself hostel in the tourist resort the following afternoon, July 13.

She was expected to return to the hostel that night but did not. She had been seen leaving the hostel by a hostel worker and that hostel worker has claimed that Jean left with a Brazilian man.

This morning, her sister Leona will address those attending the Missing Persons Day event in Croke Park through a pre-recorded address from New York, where she lives.

In her address, she says: We discovered that she had planned to stay on in the hostel the night of July 13 and booked a flight on July 12 to fly back to Dublin on July 15. Thats a lot of planned activities. So, from the beginning, we felt something had suddenly happened to affect those plans, and weve never heard a plausible explanation of what that might have been.

In recent months, Leona has been receiving monthly updates on the case from Portuguese police. Previously, the family was frustrated by a lack of updates from the investigators and felt that Jeans case was not being seen as a priority.

She said: When a loved one disappears abroad, one needs strong people around you to support you emotionally, and professional allies with the skillset and wherewithal to guide you on the journey, help you in interaction with the local authorities, and apply political pressure to ensure the case is not forgotten.

Because youre dealing with a language barrier, different police systems, legal systems, people and culture, and trying to fend for yourself in this unfamiliar territory is both hugely frustrating for you and potentially detrimental to the case of the missing, depending on the extent to which emotion boils over, with the danger of bridges being burned.

"The people best suited to dealing with officialdom abroad are to be found among the ranks of officialdom domestically. It is absolutely crucial that you have them on your side and that they are pleading your case with their counterparts overseas. Without that pressure, it is very difficult to make anything happen.
Social media companies operating in Ireland say they responded proactively to the aftermath of the stabbing of several children in Dublin last month, contacting gardai and combating misinformation on their platforms in real time.

Appearing before the Oireachtas Media Committee, representatives of TikTok, Google, and Meta, the parent compnay of Facebook and Instagram, outlined how they had responded to the stabbings, an event which preceded the worst riots seen in Dublin in living memory later that evening.

Meta Irelands head of public policy Dualta OBroin said that once the company noted the initial media reports concerning the stabbing of three children outside a gaelscoil in Dublins inner city, its law enforcement division had made contact with An Garda Siochana and had maintained that contact over the course of the day, although at that point the discussion wouldnt have been about removing content but rather the purpose was to establish what had happened.

TikTok Ireland's head of public policy Susan Moss said that the company was absolutely confident in how it had responded to the riots, which saw vehicles set on fire and widespread looting across the north inner city on November 23.

She said that the company had been able to get ahead of content by activating its crisis management protocols to remove any such content which violated its standards, and had likewise worked both closely and proactively with An Garda Siochana.

Ms Moss added that TikTok had scaled up its fact-checking teams on the day, who proceeded to flag content not just on TikTok but across the internet.

Googles head of public policy Ryan Meade meanwhile said that both the stabbings and the riots would have triggered our instant protocols, which would have led to full-time monitoring of the situation by the company, which also owns YouTube. He added however, that I dont think we saw any threat to life.

The committee meanwhile heard criticism of X, formerly Twitter, which had faced accusations of not having removed harmful posts relating to the riots at the request of gardai  claims it has since refuted  and which had declined to attend the hearing due to ongoing legal proceedings.

Fianna Fails Christopher OSullivan labelled the companys non-attendance a disgrace, while Fine Gaels Ciaran Cannon said that Xs owner Elon Musk should be deeply ashamed of himself for his own incendiary interventions into discussions around the riots.

Regarding the suggestion that social media companies promote hateful content as any engagement is good, Mr OBroin said the assertion couldnt be further from the truth, adding that Metas business is advert-based, and that corporate brands dont like being placed adjacent to hateful postings.

He did acknowledge however that if inflammatory content is sent via encrypted messaging site Whatsapp, also owned by Meta, and that content is not reported by a user, then theres nothing we can do.
Five passengers of the Irish Ferries vessel MV Epsilon, who believed they were going to die at sea during Storm Imogen, one of the worst in decades, have settled claims totalling 300,000 against the ferry line for undisclosed sums.

Barrister Eamon Marray told the Circuit Civil Court on Wednesday that every time the ship was hit and rolled by huge waves, the traumatised passengers believed the next one would be fatal.

He said Noel Rowland, of Bridgemount, Belcarra, Castlebar, Co Mayo, his wife, and three children, Florence, Beau and Jude, now all resident in Brussels; Chris Sawyer, also Brussels, and two other passengers also living in Brussels but with Irish connections, had settled their claims against Irish Ferries.

Mr Marray, who appeared with Evan ODwyer of ODwyer Solicitors, Ballyhaunis, for nine passengers, told Judge Michael Walsh the court would have to approve settlement offers of 14,500 each for the three Rowland children.

He said a case involving former NBC war programme producer Susan Burt was being adjourned to be heard at full trial due to settlement talks having broken down in her case. She also lives in Brussels and all of the passengers were travelling from Cherbourg to visit relatives and friends in Ireland.

The court heard that on three different days, February 7, 8, and 9, 2016,  the length of time it took the Epsilon reaching its destination, all of the passengers were on board when, after exiting the safety of Cherbourg Port, it had been tossed around in the vicious Storm Imogen, which meant for one period of 11 hours they had been unable to dock, expecting the next second might be their last.

Psychological trauma

Mr Marray said while none of the passengers had been seriously physically injured, their injuries were confined to psychological trauma. He said the storm had been so bad that most of the Epsilons cargo and the vessel itself had been damaged.

Families huddled together for safety as the vessel was rocked from side to side, one passenger claiming it had been tossed on its side at one stage.

Mr Marray said the incredibly traumatic experience of crew and passengers had been so bad that the incident had been investigated by the Irish Marine Casualty Investigation Board which had characterised the event as a serious marine incident at the highest level.

He was confident had liability not been accepted in these cases at the last minute by Irish Ferries, negligence would have been proven.

Judge Walsh said it had been a traumatic incident for everyone concerned and he had no difficulty in approving the offers of settlement made to the Rowland children who, thankfully, had made a full recovery.

On the application of Mr Marray, he struck out all of the cases that had been settled for undisclosed sums and adjourned the case of retired journalist Susan Burt, who lives in Chippenham, England, and who had been on her way with her partner, Christopher Sawyer, to visit her family in Ireland.
Compelling evidence of neglect at a puppy farm led a judge to uphold an order to close the business made by Cork County Council.

Anne Broderick, whose late father, a successful farmer, bred Cheltenham winning racehorse Paddy De Plasterer, gave tearful evidence in Mallow District Court, saying that she loved her dogs and her dogs loved her.

She refuted multiple veterinary reports that her dogs had suffered unnecessarily at her puppy farm at The Hermitage, Doneraile.

Over a three-day hearing in Mallow District court this week, evidence was heard that putrid smelling dogs soaked in urine, many very fearful with oozing, reddened eyes, were forced to walk in their own faeces due to overcrowding at the facility.

Dogs with vacant eyes looked like they had given up and a petrified Labrador was so terrified it urinated and cowered when touched by a human.

Dogs paws were burned from chronic exposure to the highly corrosive ammonia in urine, the gas of which also damages dogs lungs and irritates their eyes, Mallow District Court heard.

But Ms Broderick said she found comfort in her dogs.

Dogs are more than a business. I love them, theyre my companions, my friends.

Through tears, she said that she would never subject her dogs to any hardship. The dogs loved me, Ms Broderick told the court.

Ms Broderick said she was subjected to death threats and an abusive social media campaign after news of the closure order became public which caused her great distress.

She had appealed a closure order Cork County Council imposed on her dog-breeding facility in January, after she failed to comply with the terms of both a Dog Breeding Establishment Order and an Animal Health and Welfare Notice. Although Ms Broderick had a licence to breed 50 bitches, inspectors found more than 80, with 218 dogs and puppies in total.

Some 47 dogs were seized on January 23, 2023, of which 39 were breeding bitches. Another 24 dogs, 19 of which were breeding bitches, were seized on February 1.

All dogs were taken under the care of the ISPCA. She admitted she exceeded the 50 bitches she was licensed to breed.

I did slip up and fail on a number of items. The numbers caught me out, she said.

Ms Broderick always had dogs growing up. She bought her first bitch in 2000, then got a male dog, Harry, which she subsequently showed in competitions. She got a few more dogs over the years and started breeding.

In 2014, she registered as a dog breeder, with a license initially for 30 bitches, which increased to 40 which then increased to 50.

She said that she had a good reputation built up in dog breeding circles.

But when she began a lucrative business selling puppies to Singapore, where each puppy sold for thousands of euros, numbers at her kennels grew.

'Covid backlog'

Getting dogs on flights to Singapore, which she said was often a challenge, became impossible over the pandemic.

This caused puppies to age out, as female dogs become bitches at six months. This made them more difficult to export and left Ms Broderick with more breeding bitches than she intended to keep, she said.

Barrister Brian Leahy, for Ms Broderick, said that a backlog over covid created the problem.

If there had been no covid, there would be no problem, he said.

But Barrister for Cork County Council Donnchadh McCarthy, said that the problems were exacerbated by overcrowding, but not just due to overcrowding alone.

Judge Colm Roberts said that he accepted without doubt that Ms Broderick loved animals and did not consciously do harm to her dogs  in any way.

There was no animal cruelty in this case, he said.

But, a lack of competency applied impacted the health and welfare of the animals.

Evidence showed that she had failed in multiple regards, including in producing records for inspection, in taking the matter seriously in a timely manner, and she failed in her duties under Section 15 of the Dog Breeding Establishment Act, 2010, Judge Roberts said.

Although she loved animals, by her actions and inaction, dogs suffered unnecessary harm by neglect, Judge Roberts said.

He was not satisfied that she was able or willing to meet the standards required for a dog breeding establishment to an appropriate degree or level.

It is necessary for me to confirm the closure order and refuse the appeal.

"It's my view Cork County Council did act with forbearance and only commenced this notice as a last option.

"I appreciate this is not the outcome Ms Broderick wished for but I have to be driven and led by evidence, which was very compelling."

He said that he appreciated the financial impact this would have on Ms Broderick and awarded Cork County Council a 5,000 order of costs.

Judge Roberts suggested that if Ms Broderick would reapply for a dog breeding licence, she should engage someone of significant standing and experience to advise her, hire staff and engage fully with Cork County Council.
You can see the idea smouldering like the cars and buses in the recent riots. We should hit the rioters where it hurts by taking away their social welfare payments or, in a variation on the theme, clawing benefits back through the Free Legal Aid scheme.

Junior Minister Patrick ODonovan called for rioters to be punished financially and have their welfare stopped.

Cormac Devlin, the FF chief whip, said that there was a need to review the cases of social welfare recipients who terrorised their communities and had received welfare for years in some cases.

Noel Grealish, an Independent TD, said that the free legal aid system could be used as a mechanism to recover the cost of their legal aid from welfare recipients  suggesting that it might act as a deterrent.

Social welfare recently popped up in the context of the Ashling Murphy case. In the Central Criminal Court in his victim statement, Ashling Murphys boyfriend, Ryan Casey, commented that he was sickened that Jozef Puska, Ashlings killer was fully supported in terms of social housing, social welfare, free medical care for over ten years".

It should be said that Mr Casey has earned the right in the most painful of circumstances imaginable to say whatever he wants in his victim statement.

Crime and punishment

But there has been a sense over the last few weeks that social welfare benefits are being pushed up the political agenda and may even play a part in next years elections as an issue.

In the context of the rioters, we are left with the questions of why we punish people, how we punish them, and what the outcomes of that punishment might be. And specifically, how punishment might link to social welfare.

We punish people for three reasons: to punish them, to deter them, and to rehabilitate them. Is using the social welfare code a moral or even effective way to alter peoples behaviour and should there be a punitive aspect to welfare at all?

A 1996 piece of American legislation called The Personal Reasonability and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act 1996, otherwise known as workfare, was considered by critics to have punitive sanctions against the unemployed with negative social consequences.

It included a mandatory work requirement after two years of receiving welfare and a cut-off after five years.7

While advocates claimed that employment rates among welfare recipients soared and considered the measure to be enabling, detractors saw them as punitive saying that it increased poverty, causing a multitude of harms to not just individuals but also to communities and society as a whole.

The key thing was that it also punished the innocent. When applied to single mothers, for instance, it hurt the children of those mothers who had their welfare cut off.

A study last year from Oxford Universitys Quarterly Journal of Economics indicated that the Workfare Act which removed social welfare benefits for children with disability status or who had parents with low incomes at the age of 18, increased the number of criminal charges by 20% over two decades with income-generating crimes like theft, fraud and prostitution increasing.

In the current context in Ireland, the idea of halting welfare payments as a method of punishment for public disorder would seem to carry with it potentially unintended consequences for the wider society.

Its hard to believe that it would straighten out a group of troubled young men and act as a deterrent to others by sending out a clear message.

Last week, Senator Lynn Ruane, at the Joint Committee on Justice, Engagement on Policing Matters, asked an important question of Garda Commissioner Drew Harris. She asked him what he thought the core drivers of violence had been. She said that she was more preoccupied with why the riots happened rather than the response to the riots.

To me, both questions are important, but she made valid points.

Why did angry, violent young men maraud around the streets and engage in thuggish behaviour allowing themselves to be manipulated by far-right actors? It seems highly unlikely that it was because they subscribed to a clear far-right ideology.

Societal issues

Senator Ruane and many other commentators have linked their behaviour to the fact that some of them come from a group that is locked out of society. And thats not wishy-washy liberalism (as somebody accused me of last week). It is reality.

Try raising a teenage boy in a seriously deprived urban area without facilities and outlets, giving them no sense of self, and no connection to a society they cant access and will never access  an affluent society on their doorstep, that they view through a metaphorical pane of glass, with their nose angrily pressed up against the window.

Lets not kid ourselves, plenty of middle-class children who have strong male role models, and access to sporting facilities, education, and opportunities, still encounter difficulties, still get into trouble with drugs, and often brush up with the law in a minor way.

But generally, they are scooped up by way of appropriate interventions with any less-than-ideal behaviour being swiftly buried. Life goes on for most of them and they become functioning, contributing members of society.

Of course, there are bad apples. But they exist in every social stratum of Irish society.

Lets face it, some of the most serious crimes that cause the greatest property and economic loss are caused by high-status individuals with scrubbed faces, and collared shirts in boardrooms and offices with access to large amounts of loot.

We have a very class-based criminal justice policy and idea of what constitutes crime, with a far greater tolerance for white-collar criminals than for those who smash a pane of glass and grab trainers.

Poverty and inequality are important variables in crime and, for the most part, decent people are made, not born.

It doesnt mean the rioters shouldnt be punished. People must be punished for burning Garda cars and buses and looting shops or society will break down and we potentially revert to a Hobbesian state of lawlessness.

Where social welfare reform is concerned generally, significant policy change will always be controversial because people hold such contrasting positions underpinned by opposing deeply held views and values, but this is a topic that is not going to go away.

However, targeting social welfare payments of miscreants as a method of punishment will not stand up empirically if the goal is to deter people from committing further crimes.

And ultimately it discounts structural sources of poverty and continues a vicious circle of crime and social exclusion.
Joe Biden has a Benjamin Netanyahu problem  and how he deals with it grows more urgent with each brutal, bloody day that passes. Thousands of Palestinian lives hang on the answer to this question. So, too, do hopes of stopping this hugely destructive war spreading beyond Gaza, and of progress towards a lasting peace.

The Israeli prime ministers post-truce bombardment and ground invasion of southern Gaza is shaping up to be even more hellish, in a UN officials words, than the indiscriminate mayhem in the north that preceded it.

The US president has the potential leverage and clout to rein him in where European and Arab leaders do not. Biden must take the lead.

It was apparent long before the October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks on southern Israel, which killed about 1,200 people, that Netanyahu and Biden were barely on speaking terms. The usual White House invitation following last autumns election, which brought Netanyahus hard-right coalition to power, was withheld.

A principal reason was Bidens disquiet over the extremist, anti-Palestinian policies espoused by the new government, notably in the occupied West Bank. Yet when Hamas attacked, Biden, being at heart a decent and honourable soul, set differences aside.

US secretary of state Antony Blinken told Netanyahu last week Washington was losing patience. 'The massive loss of civilian life and displacement of the scale we saw in northern Gaza [must] not be repeated in the south.' Picture Saul Loeb via AP

His mistake, or perhaps his wilful self-deception, was to believe Netanyahu was a man of similar mettle. Biden immediately proposed $14bn in military aid, deployed aircraft carrier battlegroups and flew to Tel Aviv. His moving speech to a grieving nation offered the sort of solace and empathy wholly foreign to Netanyahu.

Yet this show of almost unconditional support was promptly interpreted by Netanyahu as carte blanche to do whatever he pleased in pursuing Hamas in Gaza.

His main achievement to date, given the terrorists remain undefeated, is an unprecedented slaughter of Palestinian civilians, reportedly totalling nearly 16,000 deaths.

After initially doubting the sheer scale of the carnage, Biden has slowly  far too slowly  adjusted his stance, issuing increasingly strongly worded calls for proportionality, access for humanitarian assistance, and respect for international law.

Partly he is responding to Arab pressure and fears of a wider war, partly to growing dismay among Democrats and younger voters over Netanyahus actions. But he does seem to have been genuinely shocked. This is not the Israel he once knew and supported for decades in Congress.

Yet Netanyahu and his generals, while claiming to be listening to Biden, are really not. Their terrifying, post-truce targeting of Khan Younis, southern Gazas biggest city and the supposed base of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, is producing mass casualties again.

Washington losing patience

Antony Blinken, US secretary of state, told Netanyahu last week Washington was losing patience. The massive loss of civilian life and displacement of the scale we saw in northern Gaza [must] not be repeated in the south, he said.

Blinkens demand that Israel stop breaking international law, which it demonstrably does on a daily basis, was forcefully echoed by US vice-president Kamala Harris in Dubai.

Defence secretary Lloyd Austin warned Netanyahu he was replacing a tactical victory with a strategic defeat by driving Palestinians into the arms of Hamas.

Netanyahu is within his rights to resist outside advice, even from Israels indispensable military, diplomatic and financial friend and partner. But that only makes sense if it serves Israels interest. This is the crux. From the beginning of this crisis, Netanyahu, as usual, has put his personal and political interests before his countrys.

After overseeing the worst security failure in 56 years, he hopes to salvage his reputation and his job by conducting a successful war  and preferably a long one.

Right now, Netanyahu is deliberately, even proudly, rejecting US urgings to eschew tactics that will prospectively cause huge additional casualties in southern Gaza.

Breaking promises

He continues to break promises not to obstruct aid supplies from Egypt. Meanwhile the armys Orwellian QR code phone system for evacuating civilians to supposedly safe areas  apparently the best it can do in response to American pressure  is plainly unworkable amid telecoms blackouts.

More disobliging still, from the point of view of Arab neighbours and the international community, Netanyahu wants to create a permanent buffer zone in overcrowded Gazan territory. Preferring open-ended military occupation, he flatly rejects Bidens view that the Palestinian Authority is best-placed to take charge of Gaza after the war and scoffs at talk of reviving the two-state solution.

From the beginning of this crisis, Netanyahu, as usual, has put his personal and political interests before his countrys. Picture: AP /Maya Alleruzzo

On top of all that, he is ignoring, even courting, the risk of wider regional escalation  the nightmare Washington most fears. Since the Gaza truce ended on Friday, related violence has predictably flared anew from the West Bank and southern Lebanon to the Red Sea.

Netanyahu may calculate there is political advantage in being able to claim he stood up to the Americans. Biden must swiftly disabuse him of this notion  and of the bigger, pernicious idea that he can carry on prosecuting a war that collectively punishes a defenceless population, that increasingly harms US and western interests, and that is damaging to Israels long-term security.

Biden must step in

Biden cannot continue to stand back or hide behind his officials. He must step in personally  and draw a line. What is needed from the White House is less of the sympathetic uncle act, less of the soppy Joe, and more of the hard-headed pater familias and superpower commander-in-chief.

Biden needs to stop pleading and wheedling, spell out the concrete costs of this reckless course (including mooted US sanctions), and talk directly, as he did in October, to Israelis and the anti-Netanyahu, anti-extremist majority. Possible prime ministerial replacements include Yair Lapid and Benny Gantz. Biden must bang some heads together.

Netanyahu is not a fit person to lead Israel in this crisis. He cares not how many people die, as long as he survives. Weaponising the memory of Octobers victims and endangering the remaining hostages, he is drawing Israelis into a deadly cul-de-sac over the heaped bodies of the people of Gaza.

Simon Tisdall is a foreign affairs commentator

 Guardian
It is December: the days are dark and the gloom of the international situation matches the gradual fading of the light. December 9 is the 25th anniversary of the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders and December 10 is the 75th anniversary of the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights.

Out of the ashes of war came the belief in a better way of living and being human. Now, here we are againwar and rumours of war. Last year, there were more armed conflicts than at any time since 1945.

I have worked for human rights for more than 40 years and I thought I had seen it all: the disappearances and killings of the brutal military regimes in Chile and Argentina, the cruelty of the civil war in the former Yugoslavia and the relentless bloodlust of the genocide in Rwanda.

Despite everything, it was always possible to be buoyed up by those courageous human rights defenders (HRDs) who stubbornly persist in believing that these barbarities are an aberration and that if we hold the line for truth and justice things will improve.

I remember the HRD from Iran who described the inhumanity of Evin prison where every day prisoners had to queue up to wash, to get foodand to be tortured. He described how, as he waited in that dark corridor, a door opened and a woman walked out of the torture room. As she walked past him, shrouded in her abaya he could see the expression of pain in her eyes and the trail of blood as her abaya dragged on the ground behind her. Knowing what awaited him, he chose prison rather than abandon the cause of human rights.

In September this year, thousands of people queued for hours in Santiago in Chile to view Salvador Allendes shoes at an exhibition reminding people of the price paid in defence of democracy and human rights after the US-backed military coup on September 11, 1973.

The next day Roberto Garreton made a choice. He gave up his job as a corporate lawyer and became a human rights lawyer defending those being tried before the military courts. He was intimidated and arrested, but he never gave up. In an interview just before he died in 2021 he said: Every human rights violation has three components: a brutal act, cowardice and a lie. There is no human rights violation without these three conditions.

Roberto Garreton also said:

A just and democratic society cannot be built on a foundation of lies or guilty silence.

Those words remain true today, nowhere more so than in Gaza where civilians are being crushed between the brutality and duplicity of Hamas and the callousness and indiscriminate violence of the Israeli army.

Raji Sourani founded the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights and has been a relentless critic of human rights violations in Gaza documenting them with independence and impartiality. As independent UN experts express their concern at the grave and growing risk of genocide against the Palestinian people by Israel in Gaza, HRDs are standing firm.

Raji, who narrowly escaped death when his house was bombed, said: Israel has the right to be angry with Hamas but why wage war on the people of Gaza? Despite all the bombing Hamas continues to function like a Swiss watch. Because they cant locate Hamas they are destroying the people of Gaza. We are not leaving. We are the stones of the valley. We will be here forever.

Palestinians amid the destruction from the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip in Rafah on Monday. Despite all the bombing Hamas continues to function like a Swiss watch. Photo: AP/Hatem Ali

It seems we have learned nothing from the past. Twenty years after the war in the Former Yugoslavia, which tore communities apart, Jacob Finci, President of the Jewish Community of Bosnia Herzegovina has spoken of how, once again, children are being taught to see their neighbours as enemies.

I draw hope from the new generation of HRDs out there who cut through the double standards and see the humanity of the people whose rights are being violated whoever and wherever they are. Right now young HRDs around the world are joining Palestinians and Israeli groups in calls for a ceasefire and an end to the occupation.

Ireland is not immune to division and hate. Social media, here as elsewhere, has proved an incubator for the vicious racism that culminated in the looting and violence in Dublin recently. While people are right to question the source of the violence, it is a concern that when faced with a social problem, the government instinctively turns to the default solution of increased powers for the police and greater surveillance without addressing the underlying issues of poverty and marginalisation.

Meanwhile conflicts rage in Sudan, Yemen, Myanmar and Ukraine. Rohingya refugees are abandoned to their fate. Safe routes for people escaping conflict are closed by states. Action on climate change remains tokenistic and every year 400+ human rights defenders are murdered for defending the rights of others.

Algeria

I have just returned from a 10-day country visit to Algeria to evaluate the situation of human rights defenders three years after an extraordinary demonstration of citizen power led to a peaceful change in government and ushered in some reforms and human rights protections. But human rights defenders remain at risk. I met with women and men who peacefully exposed corruption, led trade unions, advocated for cultural rights, protected the environment and sought justice for the families of those disappeared in the 1990s during the so-called Black Decade.

They face surveillance, are banned from travelling abroad and are hit with multiple judicial proceedings. They are often branded as terrorists and imprisoned for undermining national unity". Yet they remain steadfast in their choices. Several HRDs who attempted to meet me were prevented from doing so.

It speaks volumes that so fearful were they of reprisals, that they asked me not to name them or make a fuss, in case they suffered further punishment. A woman I met in prison, Kamira Nait Sid, is serving a three-year prison term on terrorism-related charges for her presence at a conference where the exiled leader of an ethnic group joined online. She said to me, "Although my body is in prison, my soul is free".

I have three children and two grandchildren and I wonder about the world for them in years to come. I ask myself: What future will we build on the stones of Gaza, Mariupol or Aleppo?

Read More Human rights activist abducted in Burkina Faso, group says

It is time to choose what we believe in and I choose to believe in the promise of the UN Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and especially in the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders because HRDs are the people who breathe life into the UDHR.

In a poem I commissioned for the 25th anniversary of the Declaration, poet Nikita Gill captured this perfectly when she wrote: They are carriers of justice and an infinite dream, where a better, kinder world is every childs right not an impossibility.
President Joe Biden has denounced the reported rape and sexual violence against Israeli girls and women by Hamas militants following the October 7 attack on Israel.

The US president called on the world to condemn such conduct without equivocation and without exception.

Speaking at a campaign fundraiser in Boston, Mr Biden said female survivors and witnesses to the attacks have shared horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty.

He said: Reports of women raped  repeatedly raped  and their bodies being mutilated while still alive  of women corpses being desecrated, Hamas terrorists inflicting as much pain and suffering on women and girls as possible and then murdering them. It is appalling.

Its on all of us  government, international organisations, civil society and businesses  to forcefully condemn the sexual violence of Hamas terrorists without equivocation

The world cant just look away at whats going on.

Its on all of us  government, international organisations, civil society and businesses  to forcefully condemn the sexual violence of Hamas terrorists without equivocation. Without equivocation, without exception.

Israel has said it is investigating several cases of sexual assault and rape from the Hamas attack, with witnesses and medical experts saying militants committed a series of rapes and other attacks before killing the victims during the October 7 attack.

Experts have been piecing together evidence in a complicated case because there are no known victims to testify, and there is limited forensic evidence.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (AP)

Mr Bidens comments come as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government has sought to put greater focus on the sexual violence it says Hamas committed. Recently released hostages have shared testimonies of sexual violence and abuse during their time in Gaza.

Hamas has denied that militants committed sexual assaults.

During a press conference on Tuesday, Mr Netanyahu railed against the lack of international response.

He said: I say to the womens rights organisations, to the human rights organisations, youve heard of the rape of Israeli women, horrible atrocities, sexual mutilation  where the hell are you?

Israel hosted a special event at the United Nations on Monday where former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York and former Meta chief operating officer Sheryl Sandberg were among those who criticised what they called a global failure to support women who were raped, sexually assaulted and in some cases killed.
President Joe Biden has told campaign donors he was not sure he would be running for re-election if Donald Trump was not in the race, warning democracy is more at risk in 2024.

He said the former president and his allies are out to destroy democratic institutions.

Weve got to get it done, not because of me, Mr Biden told a fundraiser near Boston. If Trump wasnt running Im not sure Id be running. We cannot let him win.

His forceful rhetoric came after Mr Trump, the front runner for the Republican party nomination, called his successor in the White House the destroyer of American democracy.

Former President Donald Trump greets supporters in Davenport, Iowa. (Charlie Neibergall/AP)

On Tuesday Mr Trump was asked by Fox News Channels Sean Hannity to promise he would never abuse power as retribution against anybody.

Except for day one, he responded. I want to close the border and I want to drill, drill, drill. After that Im not a dictator.

The Biden campaign seized on the comments with an email that read, Donald Trump: Day One Dictator.

American democracy, I give you my word as a Biden, is at stake

Asked by reporters whether he would be running if Mr Trump was not, Mr Biden said I expect so, but look, he is running and I have to run.

He said he would not drop out of the race if his rival did.

American democracy, I give you my word as a Biden, is at stake, the president said at the first of three campaign fundraisers. He didnt even show up at my inauguration. I cant say I was disappointed, but he didnt even show up.

Were always going to defend protect and fight for democracy. Thats why Im running.

Mr Biden will attend a fundraiser on Wednesday near the White House and another on Monday in Philadelphia.

On Friday, he will head to Los Angeles for a big-dollar event that will be his first since strikes by writers and actors effectively ground his fundraising to a halt in the heart of the entertainment industry, which has long served as a major source of campaign money for Democrats.

The event is slated to be at the home of Michael Smith, a celebrity interior designer who decorated the White House for President Barack Obama, and Smiths partner, James Costos, a former HBO executive who was Obamas ambassador to Spain. It is expected to raise millions of dollars and draw a crowd of celebrities. Rocker Lenny Kravitz is slated to perform.

Film director Steven Spielberg and his wife Kate Capshaw are among the hosts of the event, as are recording industry mogul David Geffen, Scandal showrunner Shonda Rhimes and This is Spinal Tap director Rob Reiner, according to an invitation.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is also a co-host. Barbra Streisand is set to attend.
Israeli forces have battled Hamas militants across Gaza after expanding their ground offensive to its second-largest city, Khan Younis.

The move shrank the area where Palestinians can seek safety and halted the distribution of vital aid across most of the territory.

The assault on the south threatens further mass displacement within the besieged coastal enclave, where the UN says some 1.87 million people  more than 80% of the population  have already fled their homes.

#Gaza: Fuel and medical supplies have reached critically low levels at Al-Aqsa hospital in the Middle Area of the Strip due to road closures, while hundreds of patients need emergency care due to the unrelenting Israeli bombardment...  MSF International (@MSF) December 6, 2023

Much of the north, including large parts of Gaza City, has been completely destroyed, and Palestinians fear the rest of Gaza could suffer a similar fate as Israel tries to dismantle Hamas, which has deep roots in the territory it has ruled for 16 years.

Israel says it can no longer accept a Hamas military presence in Gaza after the October 7 attack that triggered the war, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel will maintain open-ended security control over the territory  something opposed by the United States and much of the international community.

On Tuesday, the Israeli military said its troops were in the heart of the southern city of Khan Younis after what it described as the most intense day of fighting since the start of the ground operation five weeks ago, with heavy battles continuing in the north as well.

Israeli security forces inspect a residential building after it was hit by a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip, in Ashkelon (AP)

For the past three days, aid distribution  mainly just supplies of flour and water  has been possible only in and around the border city of Rafah, at Gazas southern edge, because of fighting and road closures by Israeli forces, the UNs humanitarian aid office said.

The aid group Doctors Without Borders said fuel and medical supplies have reached critically low levels at the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the central town of Deir al-Balah, north of Khan Younis.

Up to 200 wounded people have been brought in every day since December 1, when a week-long ceasefire expired, the group said.

Marie-Aure Perreaut Revial, the aid groups emergency coordinator in Gaza, said: Without electricity, ventilators would cease to function, blood donations would have to stop, the sterilisation of surgical instruments would be impossible.

 The rules of international humanitarian law #IHL are clear and must be applied by all parties to the armed conflict. pic.twitter.com/Oa7ouSqrXF  ICRC (@ICRC) December 5, 2023

She said the hospital is also running desperately low on surgical supplies and external fixators to hold broken bones together.

Gaza has been without electricity since early October, and Israel has severely limited fuel imports, forcing several hospitals to shut down because they cannot operate emergency generators.

The war has killed more than 16,200 people in Gaza  70% of them women and children  and left more than 42,000 injured, according to the territorys health ministry.

The ministry does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths, but its overall tally tracks with a figure released by the Israeli military this week.

(PA Graphics)

The ministry says hundreds more have been killed since the ceasefire ended on Friday, and many still are trapped under rubble.

The military accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields when the militants operate in residential areas.

But Israel has not given detailed accounts of individual strikes, some of which have levelled entire city blocks.

Military chief of staff Herzi Halevi said militants keep weapons in homes and other buildings so fighters in civilian clothes can use them to fire on troops.

Palestinians fleeing the Israeli ground offensive arrive in Rafah (AP)

Striking them requires significant use of fire, both to target the enemy but also to, of course, protect our forces, he said Tuesday.

Israel says it must remove Hamas from power to prevent a repeat of the October 7 attack, when Hamas and other militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took captive some 240 men, women and children after bursting through Israels vaunted defences.

More than 100 hostages were released during last weeks ceasefire, along with 240 Palestinians imprisoned by Israel.

Family members of hostages held a tense meeting with Mr Netanyahu and the war cabinet Tuesday in which some of them shouted at cabinet members, accusing them of having no plan to bring back the rest.

Today, I announced a new visa restrictions policy targeting individuals and their family members involved in or meaningfully contributing to actions that undermine peace, security, and stability in the West Bank. Violence against civilians will have consequences.  Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) December 5, 2023

Five of the released hostages shared details of their experience during the meeting. One spoke of Hamas fighters touching female hostages, and another said militants shaved off a male hostages body hair to humiliate him, according to a group representing the families.

A doctor who treated some of the 110 released hostages told The Associated Press separately that at least 10 women and men were sexually assaulted or abused, adding to widespread allegations of rape and other atrocities committed during Hamas October 7 attack.

Hamas continuing ability to fight in the north, where Israel entered with overwhelming force weeks ago, signals that eradicating the group without causing further mass casualties and displacement  as Israels top ally, the US, has requested  could prove elusive.

The military says 88 of its soldiers have been killed in the Gaza offensive. A military official said this week that at least 15,000 Palestinians have been killed, including 5,000 militants, but did not explain how the army arrived at those figures.

The war has been an unprecedented catastrophe for Palestinians civilians, eclipsing all four previous wars between Israel and Hamas, and their suffering is set to worsen as the offensive grinds on.
The Pope has said he is feeling much better after a two-week bout of bronchitis  but again asked an aide to read his remarks.

Francis, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, told his weekly general audience that he still gets tired if he speaks too much.

Francis, who turns 87 on December 17, came down with the flu on November 25 and was forced to cancel a planned trip to Dubai to participate in the UN climate conference.

He later revealed he had been diagnosed with an acute case of infectious bronchitis that made breathing difficult.

An aide read the Popes remarks for him, as he recovers from a bout of flu (AP)

It marks the second time this year he has had a serious case of bronchitis. In spring, Francis was in hospital for three days to receive intravenous antibiotics.

Francis walked onto the stage of the Vatican audience hall with his cane and smiled broadly at the cheering crowd. He appeared in good spirits and received several prelates who came to speak to him individually at the end of the audience.

Explaining why he would ask his aide to read his remarks, he said: Im much better, but I get tired if I speak too much.

Francis then made a brief appeal asking for prayers for all those who are suffering from war, including people in Ukraine, Israel and Gaza.

War is always a defeat, he said. No-one wins, everyone loses. The only ones who win are the weapons makers.

The Pope took part in his customary weekly blessing (AP)

To spare him from temperature changes that might aggravate his condition, Francis has delivered his weekly Sunday blessing for the past two weekends from the Vatican chapel rather than the open window of his studio overlooking St Peters Square.

Nevertheless, the Vatican has confirmed Francis would participate in his annual visit to pray before a statue of the Virgin Mary at Romes Piazza di Spagna on Friday to mark an important Catholic feast day and officially kick off the Christmas season in Rome.

The Vatican said Francis is also planning to add on a visit that day, the Immaculate Conception, to Romes St Mary Major basilica to pray before one of his favourite icons of Mary.
Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday before leaving for Saudi Arabia in a one-day lightning tour intended to raise Moscows profile as a Middle East power broker, even as his war in Ukraine grinds on.

Mr Putin landed in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the Emirates, a federation of seven sheikhdoms now hosting the United Nations Cop28 climate talks.

It marked his first trip to the region since before the coronavirus pandemic and the war  and as he faces an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court over the war in Ukraine.

Neither Saudi Arabia nor the UAE has signed the ICC founding treaty, meaning they do not face any obligation to detain Mr Putin over the warrant accusing him of being personally responsible for the abductions of children from Ukraine during his war on the country.

Mr Putin skipped a summit in South Africa over concerns he could be arrested on arrival there.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAEs foreign minister, met a smiling Mr Putin after he descended the stairs of his presidential plane.

Russian President Vladimir Putin with Emirati President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (Sergei Savostyanov, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

As he arrived at Abu Dhabis Qasr al-Watan palace to meet Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the countrys ruler, the UAEs military acrobatics team flew in formation with red, white and blue smoke trailing them in the colours of the Russian flag.

Im happy to meet you again, Sheikh Mohammed said as he sat with Mr Putin in the palace.

Soldiers on horseback and with camels lined his arrival route, Russian and Emirati flags also hanging from lampposts.

Four Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets accompanied Putins plane on the flight to the Emirates, Russian state-run media reported.

The pageantry in the Emirates, which relies on the US as its major security partner, highlights the UAEs expansive business ties to Russia that have exploded since grinding Western sanctions targeted Moscow.

Ukrainians on hand for the event expressed outrage over Mr Putin being in the country at the same time they described him as committing environmental crimes in their country.

Marharyta Bohdanova, a worker at the Ukrainian pavilion at the Cop28 climate summit, said: It is extremely upsetting to see how the world treats war criminals, because thats what he is, in my opinion.

Seeing how people let people like him in the big events  treating him like a dear guest, is just so hypocritical in my opinion.

 #PhotoOfTheDay



 President Vladimir #Putin arrives in Abu Dhabi on a working visit to the UAE.#RussiaUAE pic.twitter.com/w6TnJscfz5  MFA Russia  (@mfa_russia) December 6, 2023

Officials at Russias pavilion at the talks declined to speak to The Associated Press.

US climate envoy John Kerry and US agency for international development administrator Samantha Power made a point of touring Ukraines pavilion at Cop28 before being scheduled to address a news conference later on Wednesday afternoon.

Mr Putin last visited the UAE in 2019, receiving a warm welcome from Sheikh Mohammed, then the crown prince of Abu Dhabi. In the time since then, however, the world has greatly changed.

The Russian President isolated himself during the coronavirus pandemic. He launched an invasion targeting Ukraine in February 2022, a grinding war that continues today and has been a topic for Ukrainian diplomats at the COP28 talks.

Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war remains a major concern for the Middle East, particularly the UAE, which reached a diplomatic recognition with Israel in 2020.

Recent attacks by Yemens Iranian-backed Houthi rebels also threatens commercial shipping in the Red Sea as Irans nuclear programme continues its rapid advances since the collapse of the 2016 nuclear deal.

Mr Putin is scheduled to meet Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Thursday for what Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov has described as a rather lengthy conversation.

The two countries have been discussing ways to get around the Western sanctions targeting them.

In Saudi Arabia Mr Putin will meet powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Mr Ushakov said. Those discussions likely will focus on Moscows other major concern in the Middle East: oil.

Russia is part of Opec+, which is a group of cartel members and other nations that have managed production to try and boost crude oil prices. Last week, the group expanded some output cuts into next year and brought up-and-coming oil supplier Brazil into the fold.
Around 400 civil servants in upper Sagaing townships have reportedly defected to the civilian administration following an ultimatum issued by the National Unity Government (NUG) last month.

Civil servants working under the military regime were warned to join the NUGs administration by December 25 or face punishment according to civilian law.

Peoples administrations in Sagaing issued the announcement in mid and late November following the launch of a resistance offensive that has spread across the country, seizing hundreds of bases and towns from junta troops.

The NUG reports that 393 officials including soldiers and police have joined the civil disobedience movement (CDM) and switched to peoples township administrations  133 in Katha, 102 in Indaw, 60 in Wuntho, and 98 in Kawlin.

Non-CDM officials from various departments in Indaw Township have joined our side, an Indaw-based resistance fighter told The Irrawaddy.

More soldiers, police, and other non-CDM officials have got in contact with the Katha Township administration since the ultimatum was issued, said a representative from the administration. In Katha Township, 44 soldiers and police and 89 civil servants have joined the NUGs administration.

Many people are contacting us to join. Therefore, the number should increase. We would like to warn the remaining non-CDM officials not to support the junta and to join us before time runs out, a representative of Katha Township administration told The Irrawaddy.

Non-CDM civil servants are employed by junta-run township management committees under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration.

Kawlin on Sunday became the first district-level town to restore full civilian rule, according to the NUG, after officials from its education, customs, electronic, railway, agriculture, communication, and administration departments defected.

The township administration is now being run by 1,180 CDM civil servants from Kawlin and surrounding townships, the NUG said.
Activist group Justice for Myanmar has called on Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) members to shun Myanmar juntas December 15 conference in Naypyitaw and to permanently exclude the regime from the program.

The members are Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam along with Chinas Yunnan Province and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

JFM said it welcomed the decision by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), which acts as the GMS secretariat, not to attend the Naypyitaw conference and its refusal to provide any support.

The juntas investment minister, Kan Zaw, who is sanctioned by the US and EU, will host the conference at the Grand Amara Hotel which is part of the junta-linked conglomerate International Group of Entrepreneurs owned by Ne Aung, the brother of the juntas naval chief, JFM stated.

Kan Zaw has been sanctioned for securing junta finances.

JFM said Chinas finance minister, Lan Foan, Cambodias foreign minister, Sok Chenda Sophea, Laos planning and investment minister, Khamjane Vongphosy, Vietnams planning and investment minister, Nguyen Chi Dung, and Thailands deputy finance minister, Julapun Amornvivat, had been invited to the ministerial conference.

The steering committee which will organize the conference included a member of the military conglomerate Myanmar Economic Corporation (MEC), which is sanctioned by the US, UK, EU, Canada and Australia, it said.

Myanmars police, which is responsible for crimes against humanity, including killings and torture, will provide security, the activist group stated.

The junta is providing the accommodation for delegates, their flights between Yangon and Naypyitaw and hosting a gala lunch, it added.

JFM said the conference takes place as the junta continues to commit mass killings, carry out indiscriminate airstrikes and shelling, torture and mass displacement, leaving more than 2.5 million homeless.

It is unfathomable that the GMS program and its members are not only inviting the illegal junta to participate but are even appointing it as host of a ministerial conference, JFM spokeswoman Yadanar Maung said.

Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing attended the online GMS leaders summit in Cambodia in September 2021. He defended the February coup, said the 2020 general election was rigged and that the coup was constitutional, according to JFM.

Min Aung Hlaing endorsed the GMS Strategic Framework 2030, which aims to promote investment and tourism that could generate revenue for the junta, it added.

Laos hosted last years ministerial conference and the junta endorsed the GMS Regional Investment Framework for 2023-25, in which the junta proposed US$208 million in energy, information and communications technology, tourism and agriculture, mostly to be funded by unspecified development partners, the group stated.

The GMS business council is chaired by Zaw Min Win, chair of Myanmar Industries Alliance, which invests in the mobile operator Mytel with MEC, JFM said.

Allowing a junta crony to head GMSs investment wing shows the regime is using the program to boost income, it said.

The JFM called on the ADB to reconsider its institutional support for the GMS program while it legitimizes Myanmars junta.

With ADBs assistance, six countries initiated the program in 1992 to enhance economic relations.
The Myanmar regimes security advisor and the Russian security council secretary met for consultations on security and military matters on Tuesday amid the juntas humiliating military defeats on multiple fronts across the country.

The Consultations on Law Enforcement and Security between the regimes Ministry of Home Affairs and the Security Council of the Russian Federation in Naypyitaw were led by junta security advisor cum Home Affairs Minister Lieutenant General Yar Pyae and Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev.

Junta-controlled Myanmar state media reported that the two parties discussed bilateral military cooperation, military-technical cooperation, international information security, interaction between law enforcement organizations, sector-wide cooperation and the countries strategic cooperative partnership.

A junta news site reported that Lt-Gen Yar Pyae and Patrushev signed an MoU on Myanmar-Russia cooperation and regime Union Minister for Transport and Communications General Mya Tun Oo also signed an MoU on cooperation in international information security with the secretary. It did not provide further details on those agreements.

The juntas consultations and MoU signings with Russia, one of its major arms sellers, come as the Myanmar regime reels from mounting losses amid successful offensives by ethnic armed groups and their allied resistance forces across the country, which began in late October.

So far, the regime has lost control of nearly 20 towns and over 300 outposts to the expanding resistance offensives. Hundreds of junta soldiers including entire battalions have surrendered.

While the Myanmar junta has been ostracized internationally for its coup against the countrys democratically elected government in 2021, Russia is one of the juntas few international partners, along with China. Both have engaged with the junta militarily, economically and diplomatically, as well in arms sales and other areas.

However, the juntas relations with China seem to have soured recently as the regime suspects Beijing is supporting some ethnic armed groups near its border in the current offensives. To show its displeasure with China, the junta recently allowed its supporters to stage anti-China protests in Yangon, Naypyitaw and other cities.

In another sign of warming relations between the junta and Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin has bestowed the Order of Alexander Nevsky on regime chief Min Aung Hlaing, and the Order of Friendship on deputy junta chief Soe Win.

Patrushev presented the honors to the duo in Naypyitaw on Monday.

The junta boss earlier received an honorary professorship from Russian Military University and an honorary doctorate from the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

The Order of Alexander Nevsky was bestowed for Min Aung Hlaings valuable endeavours to develop multi-sectoral cooperation with Russia, according to junta media.
Myanmars military regime has escalated its campaign of atrocities against civilians in response to the ongoing coordinated resistance offensive launched in northern Shan State on Oct. 27, the civilian National Unity Government (NUG) claims.

The civilian death toll during the offensive hit 309 nationwide on November 30, as the military regime carried out at least 244 targeted attacks on civilians in seven states and five regions, according to NUGs Ministry of Human Rights.

At least 413 people were also injured by indiscriminate junta shelling, airstrikes and shooting, it added.

The NUG said junta troops carried out at least 11 massacres in Sagaing and Mandalay regions and Karenni, Rakhine and Shan states between October 27 and November 30 alone.

The highest civilian casualties were reported in Chin, Karenni (Kayah), Rakhine and northern Shan states and Sagaing region.

In northern Shan State, regime attacks on civilian targets between Oct. 27 and Nov. 30 killed nearly 100 people and wounded 160, according to local reports.

In Sagaing, at least 67 people were killed and 69 injured as junta troops shelled and bombed residential areas in retaliation for simultaneous resistance attacks in support of Operation 1027 in Kawlin, Tigyaing, Indaw and Gangaw townships.

The Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and Arakan Army (AA) also accused regime forces of deploying chemical bombs in the battles.

In Rakhine State, intensifying regime bombardments of civilian communities have killed around 60 residents of Pauktaw, Buthidaung, Mrauk-U, Ponnagyun townships since November 13.

In Karenni State, local aid groups report civilian casualties have surpassed 140, with 76 killed and over 70 wounded, since resistance groups launched Operation 1111 on Nov. 11 to seize the state capital of Loikaw.

The civilian death toll is expected to rise as the military regime continues to rely on massive bombardments and airstrikes amid heavy losses among its ground troops on all fronts across the country.

The NUG also said that at least 562 houses, 44 religious buildings, 10 schools and seven clinics had been damaged or destroyed by junta bombardments, airstrikes and arson attacks in the month up to November 30.

The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, which monitors junta violence, estimated on Tuesday that over 4,200 people have been killed by junta troops since the 2021 military coup.
The number of women killed by junta troops since the coup in February 2021 has risen to at least 664 as the junta continues its brutal artillery, aerial and other heavy-handed attacks on civilians, the Burmese Womens Union (BWU) said in a report.

The BWU also reported that a total of 2,441 women have been arbitrarily arrested and detained by the junta in the past nearly three years, of whom 706 were unjustly convicted of crimes.

The group said the data is based on statements from the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) and credible news reports, adding that the actual number could be much higher.

According to the BWU, 38 women were killed last month alone in northern Shan State, Sagaing, Magwe, Bago, Mandalay, Tanintharyi and Yangon regions, and Chin, Rakhine, Mon and Karenni (Kayah) states.

Northern Shan State, currently the site of the most intense fighting, topped the list of the most deadly places for women in November with 12 fatalities, followed by resistance stronghold Sagaing Region with six and Bago Region with five.

Of the 38, 19 were killed by artillery, 13 died in air strikes, four were shot dead, one was burned alive and one was killed while in junta forces custody, the BWU said in the report.

Additionally, from Nov. 1-26, 16 women were arrested by the military junta, it stated.

Most of those arrested were accused of posting false information on social media, as well as composing and disseminating posts supporting the National Unity Government, the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, and the Peoples Defense Force, the report added.

The detainees were from Yangon, Mandalay, Ayeyarwady, Magwe, Tanintharyi and Bago regions, and Shan and Kachin states.

In July to September, 56 women were killed in shelling, shootings, aerial bombings, burning attacks and beatings, and in the juntas custody. One young woman was gang raped before being murdered. A total of 43 women were detained by the junta.
The Arakan Army (AA) claims to have seized a large Myanmar junta base at Traunaing in Paletwa Township, Chin State, after 21 days of attacks.

The AA is also attempting to seize the major Hnonebuu base in the township since November 14.

The armed group, which is based in neighboring Rakhine State, said it faced repeated junta airstrikes and shelling and accused the regime of using chemical weapons. Airstrikes continue in defense of the Hnonebuu base.

Many weapons and ammunition were seized and numerous dead junta troops were found at the base, said the AA.

It added that its forces suffered casualties but did not give details. The Irrawaddy could not independently verify the reports.

AA spokesman Khine Thu Kha recently told The Irrawaddy that the two outposts were used to oppress Chin and Rakhine communities in Paletwa Township.

As part of Operation 1027, the AA attacked military targets across northern Rakhine State and Paletwa on November 13, ending a yearlong ceasefire agreed with the regime.

The group says it seized around five bases and occupied another 40 positions abandoned by regime troops.

Clashes continue in Pauktaw, near the Rakhine State capital Sittwe, as AA troops attempt to seize the town.
The Myanmar junta lost more bases and dozens more troops over the past five days as Peoples Defense Force groups (PDFs) and ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) stepped up attacks on regime targets across the country.

Incidents were reported in Rakhine, Kachin, Shan and Karenni (Kayah) states and Magwe and Sagaing regions.

The Irrawaddy has collected the following reports of significant attacks from PDFs and EAOs.

Some military casualties could not be independently verified.

Strategic junta base seized after 21 days of attacks in Rakhine

Ethnic Rakhine armed group the Arakan Army (AA) said it seized a strategic junta base in Hta Ron Ai in Paletwa Township, Chin State on Tuesday after 21 days of attacks amid heavy junta air strikes and shelling.

The attack was conducted as part of the ongoing Operation 1027 launched in late October by the Brotherhood Alliance of the AA, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army and the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA).

The AA accused junta forces of using chemical weapons in their unsuccessful bid to defend the base. Many regime forces were killed and weapons and ammunition were seized along with the base.

The AA said there were also resistance casualties.

Fierce clashes continue in northern Shan

Intense clashes were reported in northern Shan State on Tuesday as the TNLA attacked regime bases in Namkham, Hsipaw, Kyaukme and Kutkai townships as part of Operation 1027.

The junta responded with heavy shelling and air strikes to defend its bases, the TNLA said.

Junta air defense radar station seized in Kachin

Powerful ethnic armed organization the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and PDF groups jointly attacked and occupied a junta air defense radar station on a hilltop near Bi Lu town in Mohnyin Township, Kachin State early on Tuesday morning, according to local media reports.

During the raid, resistance forces conducted drone strikes against regime forces at the station, a resistance member told a Kachin media outlet.

Junta base seized in Karenni

Karenni resistance groups killed 10 regime soldiers and arrested nine during a raid on the Pon Chaung miliary base after three days of attacks in Shadaw Township, Karenni State, according to local media reports.

The resistance groups launched the attack on the junta base last Friday and seized it along with regime forces who were attempting to flee, according to media reports citing the resistance groups.

Police station burned in Magwe

Five regime soldiers and two police officers were killed and 15 regime forces were injured in Seikphyu Township, Magwe Region on Tuesday when over a dozen PDF battalions raided the Kan Zun Ma Police Station, said Seikphyu Barmahtee PDF, which coordinated the attack.

After occupying the junta police station, resistance forces burned some buildings there. However, the resistance groups were forced to retreat from the police station when regime reinforcements arrived in the area.

Regime targets bombed in Sagaing

Wild Tiger PDF group said it and six other resistance groups used drones to drop two 60-mm mortar bombs on regime forces at the entrance to Shwebo town, Sagaing Region on Tuesday afternoon.

On that night, the combined PDF groups also dropped two drone bombs on the bases of pro-regime Pyu Saw Htee militia groups in the pro-military village of Pan Yan in the town.

The group also said it used drones to drop 10 bombs on pro-junta Pyu Saw Htee militia forces in Thee Lone, another pro-military village in Shwebo Township, over three days from Dec. 1 to 3.

Details of regime casualties were unknown.
The Arakan Army (AA) has claimed Myanmars junta has been using chemical weapons in Paletwa Township, Chin State, since Sunday.

The AA, a member of the Brotherhood Alliance that launched Operation 1027 in northern Shan State, has been attacking the regimes hilltop outposts in Traunaing and Hnonebuu villages in the township that borders Rakhine State since November 14.

Its statement said chemical warfare agents were dropped from Y-8 and Y-12 aircraft on Sunday evening.

U Khine Thu Kha, the AAs spokesman, told The Irrawaddy that chemical bombs were also dropped on Monday.

The fascist military twice dropped chemical bombs while we were attacking the Traunaing hilltop outpost. The junta is launching at least 30 airstrikes a day in Paletwa, he said.

The junta denied the accusations.

U Khine Thu Kha said the Traunaing and Hnonebuu outposts had been used to oppress Chin and Rakhine communities in Paletwa Township.

The other two Brotherhood Alliance members, the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), have reported the juntas use of chemical weapons.

The TNLA reported that a chemical bomb was dropped on November 4 at Mong Kyat camp in Lashio Township, which had been seized from the regime.

It said TNLA soldiers suffered from dizziness, breathlessness, nausea, extreme agitation, fatigue and low oxygen levels in their blood.

On November 18, the TNLA said its troops suffered similar symptoms at the Sakhan Thit hill base in Namkham Township.

On November 23, the MNDAA stated that junta aircraft dropped four chemical bombs on a seized regime hilltop outpost in Namsalat village, Hseni Township, in northern Shan State.

MNDAA spokesman Li Jiawen warned of more chemical attacks, including on civilian targets, while the juntas mouthpiece, Major General Zaw Min Tun, denied that chemical weapons had been used.


Leading Communications and Technology Event Returns to Florida for the 24th Consecutive Year





Shelton, CT  December 6, 2023  TMC today announced that Aress has signed on a Silver sponsor for MSP Expo, part of the #TECHSUPERSHOW, being held February 13-15, 2024 at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. MSP Expo is the premier conference and networking summit for MSPs. This is where MSP business owners and technology specialists share strategies to grow their managed services businesses.

Were glad to welcome Aress as a Silver sponsor of MSP Expo in 2024, said Rich Tehrani, TMCs CEO. Aress has over 24 years of experience and 1500 offshore projects under their belt. They are a must-see at MSP Expo.

As the head of Aress Software, I take pride in stating our steadfast commitment to excellence in delivering top-notch technical support services for MSPs and diverse enterprise platforms, said Vrushali Udayshankar - Executive Director (Operations). In the ever-evolving landscape of Managed Services, our 24 years of experience, coupled with a team of over 450 certified technicians, positions us as a crucial player in empowering the MSP community. Whether you're grappling with technical challenges, seeking operational efficiency, aiming to enhance customer satisfaction, or enhancing your ROI through AI-powered support solutions, we are equipped to cater to your distinct requirements. Join us at the MSP Show, where innovation meets reliability, and let's navigate the future of managed services together.

Established in 1999, Aress Software, headquartered in India, has emerged as a leading global IT-enabled service provider. Our footprint spans the globe with a diverse clientele, robust partnerships, and offices strategically positioned across various continents. As consultative partners, we specialize in crafting tailored solutions for our clients, employing cutting-edge strategies and technologies in Automation, Business Analytics, Enterprise Platforms, and premium 24x7 technical support services. At Aress Software, we are dedicated to driving innovation and delivering excellence in every aspect of our IT-enabled services.

For more information or to register for MSP Expo, contact [email protected]. For media inquiries, contact Michelle Connolly. Companies interested in exhibiting, sponsorship or advertising packages for ITEXPO or MSP Expo should contact TMC's Joe Fabiano at 203-852-6800 x132 or Maureen Gambino at 203-852-6800 x109.

For the latest MSP Expo news, updates and information follow the event on X at @MSPExpo.

About TMC

Through our news and solutions-focused editorial platforms, live events, webinars, and online advertising, TMC provides global buyers with valuable insights for making informed technology purchase decisions and successfully navigating markets.

In turn, leading technology vendors rely on TMC, TMCnet and our family of sites and events for exceptional branding, thought leadership, and lead generation opportunities.

Our live events, including the ITEXPO #TECHSUPERSHOW, offer unparalleled visibility and sales prospects for all participants. With our customized lead generation programs, including a turnkey webinar program, we consistently deliver a steady stream of leads that translate into sales opportunities and database growth.

In addition, display advertising on respected news sites and newsletters generates millions of impressions, bolstering brand reputations.

TMC offers a comprehensive 360-degree marketing solution, with services such as event and road show management, as well as expertly crafted content creation including blogs, press releases, articles, and marketing collateral. These efforts contribute to SEO, branding, and overall marketing success.

To discover more about how TMC can assist you in achieving your marketing goals through our events and online advertising, please visit www.tmcnet.com. Stay connected with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and X by following @tmcnet.

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By Clarence Lusane | 

( Tomdispatch.com )  On February 19, 1942, two months after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, President Franklin Roosevelt issued Executive Order 9066. It initiated a Department of Defense program that resulted in the rounding up and incarceration of about 122,000 individuals of Japanese descent. They were to be placed in federal relocation centers that would popularly become known as internment camps. As it happened, they were neither. They were prisons set up to house and so violate the civil and human rights of a despised and racially different group defined as the enemy.

Although that executive order did not, in fact, mention a specific ethnic or racial group, it was clearly understood that the prisons were not being established for citizens or residents of German or Italian descent, the other two nations then at war with the United States. While not a single person of Japanese ancestry was found to have spied on this country or to have committed acts of sabotage against it, pro-Mussolini and pro-Hitler demonstrations, rallies, and propaganda had been commonplace. Before the war, fascist groups had been allowed to organize and spread propaganda from coast to coast. Some even had influence over and alliances with members of Congress, mainstream journalists, and well-known scholars.

Such a travesty of justice was not just being pushed by Roosevelt, one of the most liberal presidents in American history, but by notables like California judge Earl Warren (later to become a liberal Supreme Court justice) and renowned journalist Edward R. Murrow.

Although lawsuits challenging the prison camps were filed, the Supreme Court allowed them to continue to operate. More than half of those incarcerated were U.S. citizens. None had been charged with any crimes. Often under the banner (made popular again in our time) of America First, far-right, racist policies had been put in place and millions suffered from them.

The openly discussed basis for unity in those years was, at least in part, opposition to non-Aryans and non-Protestants, whether they were Japanese, Jewish, or African American.

In 1981, 36 years after World War II ended with the atomic bombing of two Japanese cities, a Presidential Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians issued a report making clear that the imprisonment of Americans of Japanese descent in such striking numbers was not justified by military necessity, and the decisions which followed from it were not driven by analysis of military conditions. The broad historical causes which shaped these decisions were race prejudice, war hysteria, and a failure of political leadership.

Trump Threatens

Its important to keep this history in mind since Donald Trump and his MAGA associates are planning to emulate it on a grand scale in a second (and what they hope will be a never-ending) administration. Promises of new camps, should The Donald be elected a second time in 2024, are already pouring out of Trumpworld. These would be huge camps for migrants near the border with Mexico, as the New York Times reported recently, to detain people while their cases are processed and they await deportation flights. To ensure that Congress has no direct role in funding them, they will be built and operated with money taken directly from the military budget.

Just to be clear, Trump isnt against all immigrants. Anything but. After all, he married two, one from the Czech Republic and the other from Slovenia, countries that most Americans would have to google to find on a map of Europe. Instead, the targets of the pending Trumpian anti-immigrant tsunami will, of course, be individuals and families from the global South. The racism embedded in such a future effort isnt beside the point, it is the point.

Trumps former adviser and fellow xenophobe, Stephen Miller, stated that such a new administration would build camps  think: prisons  that could house up to a million undocumented immigrants while preparing them for mass deportations. As he told the New York Times, Any activists who doubt President Trumps resolve in the slightest are making a drastic error: Trump will unleash the vast arsenal of federal powers to implement the most spectacular migration crackdown. The immigration legal activists wont know whats happening.

And rest assured about one thing: the next Trump administration wont just go after undocumented immigrants trying to enter the country. It will build an unprecedented gulag system to round up and deport millions of people of color, one that would be unimaginable if those undocumented immigrants came from Canada or Denmark. The Trump gang has stated that they will end TPS (temporary protected status), reinstate the former presidents Muslim ban, reimpose and expand health restrictions on asylum seekers, revoke visas for foreign students who participated in protests against recent Israeli actions, shut down the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, and deport immigrants who had been allowed into the United States for humanitarian reasons.

Mind you, Trump proposed or tried to institute much of this while still in office, only to be thwarted by his administrations ineptitude, Democratic resistance, grassroots organizing, and the courts. If, in the wake of the 2024 election, the GOP were to gain control over both chambers of Congress as well as the White House  a formula that would ensure the appointment of ever more Trump-friendly federal judges  success (as he defines it) will be a given for many of these efforts.

When Trump tells his followers that Our cruel and vindictive political class is not just coming after me  they are coming after YOU, he means that he hates the very same people they do and will provide the retribution for all the harm supposedly done to them by immigrants (of color), Muslims, Blacks, Latinos, Asians, Native peoples, feminists, and other enemies.

The Fascist Aims of America First

While Trump is the likely GOP nominee in 2024, the election is still a year away and any number of unforeseen developments could lead to someone else being nominated. At this moment, the other potential Republican candidates are Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, business executive Vivek Ramaswamy, and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. Christie excepted, there isnt a sliver of policy difference between any of them and Trump. And notably, Christie supported Trump for nearly all of his administration. In addition, each of them would need the former presidents far-right MAGA base to win the nomination.

Trumps people have cloaked themselves in an America First aura without in any way owning that as a meme. In fact, it harks back both to the second rise of the Ku Klux Klan in the 1920s and the American fascist movement of the 1930s. By the mid-1920s, the KKK had ballooned to between three and eight million members and, as scholar Sarah Churchwell notes in her remarkable book Behold, America: A History of America First and the American Dream, it had already adopted America First as a motto.

While both Democratic President Woodrow Wilson and Republican Presidents Warren Harding and Calvin Coolidge had used the term earlier to promote American isolationism, nativism, and exceptionalism, it was the KKK that truly embraced its white supremacist core ethos. As one example, 1,400 Klansmen chanted America First as they marched in a Memorial Day parade in Queens, New York, in 1927. And consider it more than ironic that, as Churchwell documents, their presence evolved into a riot that led to the arrests of five Klansmen, one bystander (by mistake), and under circumstances that remain less than clear, Fred Trump, the father of the future 45th president of the United States.

In 1940, the America First Committee (AFC) was founded. At its height, it would have more than 800,000 members. Initially, it was seen as isolationist  that is, against American entry into the war already being waged in Europe  and even anti-imperialist. As a result, its ranks initially included liberals, progressives, and socialists, as well as conservatives, libertarians, and avowed fascists. The latter, however, would eventually come to dominate, especially after the nations leading anti-Semite and pro-Hitler celebrity, pilot Charles Lindbergh, became its most popular spokesperson. The fascist-loving AFC then joined other U.S.-based far-right groups in celebrating German nazism and Italian fascism, while making America First their rallying cry.

Of course, the historically challenged Donald Trump undoubtedly doesnt know much, if anything, about this history. But give him full credit. From the beginning, with the instincts of both a fascist and a white nationalist, he intuitively grasped the mobilizing value of seemingly patriotic but xenophobic slogans. Count on one thing, though: some of his allies know all about the noxious roots of America First and still embrace it. Such jingoistic patriotism has, in fact, become a thinly veiled cover for a revised and expansive contemporary version of white nationalism.

The proliferation of America First groups run by former Trump staffers and supporters is daunting. The dizzying array of them includes America First Legal, America First Action, America First Policies, America First Policy Institute, America First P.A.C.T. (Protecting Americas Constitution and Traditions), America First Foundation/America First Political Action Conference, and America First 2.0, the latter a contribution from Republican presidential aspirant Vivek Ramaswamy.

America First Legal is run by Stephen Miller and promotes itself as an alternative to the American Civil Liberties Union, but its deepest focus is on defending whiteness and amplifying Millers white nationalist proclivities. During the 2022 midterm election cycle, it typically produced radio and television ads like this fact-free one:

When did racism against white people become OK? Joe Biden put white people last in line for Covid relief funds. Kamala Harris said disaster aid should go to non-white citizens first. Liberal politicians block access to medicine based on skin color. Progressive corporations, airlines, universities all openly discriminate against white Americans. Racism is always wrong. The lefts anti-white bigotry must stop. We are all entitled to equal treatment under the law.

Decrying (fake) racism against whites fits well with Trumps hysterical, desperate accusations that Georgias Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg are all racists out to prosecute him because hes white, not because he broke the law in their jurisdictions. (So far, none of Trumps Black supporters have echoed that call  perhaps a bridge too far even for them  but Miller and others on the far right certainly have.)

Linda McMahon, former head of the Small Business Administration under Trump, is now the president of the America First Policy Institute, which claims that its guiding principles are liberty, free enterprise, national greatness, American military superiority, foreign-policy engagement in the American interest, and the primacy of American workers, families, and communities in all we do. That well-funded group takes on policy and culture war issues. You undoubtedly wont be surprised to learn that it recently held a gala at  yes!  Mar-a-Lago.

The America First P.A.C.T., led by former Arizona Republican Party chair Kelli Ward, focuses on running state candidates on a far-right MAGA agenda and prioritizes raising funds for GOP candidates. Blasted across its website is the phrase A weak republican is more dangerous than a democrat. Ward is under investigation in Arizona for her alleged involvement in a 2022 fake-elector plot there.

Perhaps this countrys best-known white nationalist (and former Trump dinner guest) Nick Fuentes is the founder and president of the America First Foundation. It sponsors the annual America First Political Action Conference, an unabashed gathering of white supremacists and other far-right and extremist elements. Fuentes founded AFPAC because he thought the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) was too moderate. However, the political distance between the more traditional CPAC and AFPAC has narrowed. Noted Islamophobe Michelle Malkin, for example, spoke at both in 2019, as did conservative journalist Jon Miller in 2020. Neither Malkin, who is Asian, nor Miller, who is African American, called out Fuentes and other bigots at the conferences on their racism.

The 2022 AFPAC conference featured a whos who of contemporary American extremists, including disgraced former Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio, defeated Arizona election-denier Kari Lake, longtime founder and publisher of the white supremacist American Renaissance Jared Taylor, Florida-based Islamophobe and anti-immigrant warrior Laura Loomer, extremist activist Milo Yiannopoulos, and former too-toxic-for-even-the-House-Republicans Representative Steve King. Current Republican congress members who have spoken at AFPAC include (you undoubtedly wont be surprised to learn) Representatives Marjorie Taylor Greene and Paul Gosar.

Violence as Politics

Like fascists and racists of old, Donald Trump and the America First crowd are demonizing and dehumanizing their opponents. In October 1923, Klan leader and Imperial Wizard Hiram Evans gave a fiery anti-immigrant speech in Texas railing against the polluting streams of pollution from abroad that immigrants were bringing to the United States. This October, exactly 100 years later, Trump gave an interview to the far-right National Pulse in which he declared that immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country.

In his 2024 campaign, hes not only planning to go after immigrants, but a broader group of liberal and progressive citizens and even Republicans who stand in the way of his fevered lust for heading a genuinely authoritarian government. If he returns to the Oval Office, hes already declared that hell root out what hes called communists, Marxists, fascists and the radical left thugs that live like vermin within the confines of our country.

Vermin (a classic Hitlerian word choice) and those who would poison the nation must be wiped out, annihilated. Responding to criticism of such language, Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung called the very notion ridiculous, even as he reinforced the point by insisting that the former presidents critics suffered from Trump Derangement Syndrome and their entire existence will be crushed when President Trump returns to the White House.

None of what Trump and his allies plan to do is likely to be passively accepted. In fact, theyre already anticipating a massive popular revolt and preparing for it. As the Wall Street Journal noted, in 2020 Trump first contemplated invoking the Insurrection Act, which allows a president to employ the military to enforce federal laws under special circumstances, to break up protests related to the murder of George Floyd and other African Americans by the police and racists. He was talked down. Its use was then suggested by Trump ally Roger Stone and evidently considered by the president as a way to put down any leftwing protests related to the 2020 election. Again, the idea went nowhere.

The third time, however, could be the deadly charm. The Washington Post has reported that Trump is now considering invoking the Insurrection Act on his first day back in office. One thing is certain: should he somehow, despite four criminal indictments and multiple trials, return to the White House on January 20, 2025, we cant say we werent warned.

Copyright 2023 Clarence Lusane

Via Tomdispatch.com
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By Jonathan Bridge, Sheffield Hallam University | 

(The Conversation)  On the morning of December 6 1917, a French cargo ship called SS Mont-Blanc collided with a Norwegian vessel in the harbour of Halifax in Nova Scotia, Canada. The SS Mont-Blanc, which was laden with 3,000 tons of high explosives destined for the battlefields of the first world war, caught fire and exploded.

The resulting blast released an amount of energy equivalent to roughly 2.9 kilotons of TNT, destroying a large part of the city. Although it was far from the front lines, this explosion left a lasting imprint on Halifax in a way that many regions experience environmental change as a result of war.

The attention of the media is often drawn to the destructive explosions caused by bombs, drones or missiles. And the devastation we have witnessed in cities like Aleppo, Mosul, Mariupol and now Gaza certainly serve as stark reminders of the horrific impacts of military action.

However, research is increasingly uncovering broader and longer-term consequences of war that extend well beyond the battlefield. Armed conflicts leave a lasting trail of environmental damage, posing challenges for restoration after the hostilities have eased.

Research interest in the environmental impacts of war

Toxic legacies

Battles and even wars are over relatively quickly, at least compared to the timescales over which environments change. But soils and sediments record their effects over decades and centuries.

In 2022, a study of soil chemistry in northern France showed elevated levels of copper and lead (both toxic at concentrations above trace levels), and other changes in soil structure and composition, more than 100 years after the site was part of the Battle of the Somme.



Photo by Kevin Schmid on Unsplash



Research on more recent conflicts has recorded the toxic legacy of intense fighting too. A study that was carried out in 2016, three decades after the Iran-Iraq war, found concentrations of toxic elements like chromium, lead and the semi-metal antimony in soils from the battlefields. These concentrations were more than ten times those found in soils behind the front lines.

The deliberate destruction of infrastructure during war can also have enduring consequences. One notable example is the first Gulf War in 1991 when Iraqi forces blew up more than 700 oil wells in Kuwait. Crude oil spewed into the surrounding environment, while fallout from dispersing smoke plumes created a thick deposit known as tarcrete over 1,000 sq km of Kuwaits deserts.

The impact of the oil fires on the air, soil, water and habitats captured global attention. Now, in the 21st century, wars are closely scrutinised in near real-time for environmental harm, as well as the harm inflicted on humans.

Embed from Getty Images

American Red Adair fire fighting worker sets up a permanent hose 30 May 1991 in Al-Ahmadi oil field in southern Kuwait in order to keep the fire of the damaged oil wells in the direction of the wind whilst protecting the employees who attempt to extinguish it. In 1991, Iraqi troops retreating after a seven-month occupation, smashed and torched 727 wells, badly polluting the atmosphere and creating crude oil lakes. In addition, up to eight billion barrels of oil were split into the sea by Iraqi forces damaging marine life and coastal areas up to 400 kilometres (250 miles) away. Kuwait will seek more than 16 billion dollars compensation for environment destruction wrought by Iraq during the 1991 Gulf War, Kuwaiti newspaper Al-Anba said 07 December 1998. (Photo credit should read MICHEL GANGNE/AFP via Getty Images).

Conflict is a systemic catastrophe

One outcome of this scrutiny is the realisation that conflict is a catastrophe that affects entire human and ecological systems. Destruction of social and economic infrastructure like water and sanitation, industrial systems, agricultural supply chains and data networks can lead to subtle but devastating indirect environmental impacts.

Since 2011, conflict has marred the north-western regions of Syria. As part of a research project that was led by my Syrian colleagues at Sham University, we conducted soil surveys in the affected areas.

Our findings revealed widespread diffuse soil pollution in agricultural land. This land feeds a population of around 3 million people already experiencing severe food insecurity.

The pollution probably stems from a combination of factors, all arising as a consequence of the regional economic collapse that was caused by the conflict. A lack of fuel to pump wells, combined with destruction of wastewater treatment infrastructure, has led to an increased reliance on streams contaminated by untreated wastewater for irrigating croplands.

Contamination could also stem from the use of low-grade fertilisers, unregulated industrial emissions and the proliferation of makeshift oil refineries.

More recently, the current conflict in Ukraine, which prompted international sanctions on Russian grain and fertiliser exports, has disrupted agricultural economies worldwide. This has affected countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Nigeria and Iran particularly hard.

Many small farmers in these countries may have been forced into selling their livestock and abandoning their land as they struggle to buy the materials they need to feed their animals or grow crops. Land abandonment is an ecologically harmful practice as it can take decades for the vegetation densities and species richness typical of undisturbed ecosystems to recover.

Warfare can clearly become a complicated and entangled nexus problem, the impacts of which are felt far from the war-affected regions.

Conflict, cascades and climate

Recognising the complex, cascading environmental consequences of war is the first step towards addressing them. Following the first Gulf War, the UN set up a compensation commission and included the environment as one of six compensable harms inflicted on countries and their people.

Jordan was awarded more than US$160 million (127 million) over a decade to restore the rangelands of its Badia desert. These rangelands had been ecologically ruined by a million refugees and their livestock from Kuwait and Iraq. The Badia is now a case study in sustainable watershed management in arid regions.

In the north-west region of Syria, work is underway to assess farmers understanding of soil contamination in areas that have been affected by conflict. This marks the first step in designing farming techniques aimed at minimising threats to human health and restoring the environment.

Armed conflict has also finally made it onto the climate agenda. The UNs latest climate summit, COP28, includes the first themed day dedicated to relief, recovery and peace. The discussion will focus on countries and communities in which the ability to withstand climate change is being hindered by economic or political fragility and conflict.

And as COP28 got underway, the Conflict and Environment Observatory, a UK charity that monitors the environmental consequences of armed conflicts, called for research to account for carbon emissions in regions affected by conflict.

The carbon impact of war is still not counted in the global stocktake of carbon emissions  an essential reference for climate action. But far from the sound and fury of the explosions, warfares environmental impacts are persistent, pervasive and equally deadly.

Dont have time to read about climate change as much as youd like?



Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversations environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 20,000+ readers whove subscribed so far.

Jonathan Bridge, Reader / Associate Professor in Environmental Geoscience, Sheffield Hallam University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Orono, Maine (Special to Informed Comment; Feature)  The moral high ground, has been lost by Israel in the Gaza onslaught while it attempts to avenge the Hamas attacks on Oct 7. The leaders of the Knesset seem convinced that the slaughter of 15,000 civilians is justified and that there will be no moral consequences. Does this attitude rest on an ancient Biblical story concerning the Amalek people who became the enemy of Israel. God then commands Saul to destroy the Amalekites by killing man, woman, infant and suckling This kind of revenge is primitive in the extreme but Netanyahu has been quoted as saying Israel needs an Amalek response, Whether this is metaphorical or not, the bombing of Gaza is a brutal act of wanton destruction on a scale reminiscent of WWII.

For Americans a question that should be asked is why Israel is receiving $3.8 billion annually from the U.S. in military aid with another $14 million being promised by the Biden administration. This is taking place while one million Americans are homeless and many more are living near the poverty line? Under such circumstances why is America enabling the destruction of Gaza, the forced homelessness of tens of thousands, and on the West Bank the continued expropriation of Palestinian land by Israeli settlers. America is making itself a moral spectacle to the world as it becomes an accomplice to the deliberate destruction of an indigenous people.

In her book  And Then your Soul is Gone Kelly Denton -Borhaug describes moral injury and war culture. She writes: U.S. citizens dont really want to know what has gone on in our name, with our money and with the tacit permissionof U.S. violence around the world.we distance ourselves from the suffering caused by war yet moral injury results from participation in the moral distortion of the world that is created by war. The writer quotes Hannah Arendt concerning the banality of evil when Arendt notes how [moral injury] becomes most pernicious when it is routinized and normalized.

What is taking place in Gaza is the most transparent of age-old motives: to dispossess the indigenous people of their land by any means possible. The truth is that dispossession of indigenous land worldwide has a long sordid history, often dressed up in religious language such that, as Borhaug notes: to present a divinized portrayal of war and militarism as a sacred enterprise.

The recent display of overwhelming military power by Israel is also intended to cast fear into enemies nearby, but in this war against the Palestinians it is achieving the opposite. Arab countries are not in awe nor are they made more fearful, even as American navy sits at anchor ready to intervene. Large segments of the population of Arab countries are disgusted and are taking action by boycotting businesses and products coming from America and Israel. We may see that small actions, carried out by large numbers of people, can result in powerful consequences.

The Israeli journalist, Gideon Levy, in a talk on the Israel Lobby some years ago in Washington, D.C., spoke of three principles believed in by Israelis that make them inflexible regarding their conflict with the Palestinians: 1st is the belief that Israelis are the chosen people; 2nd is the belief that Israelis are always the victim; 3rd is the belief that Palestinians are less than human, compared to Israelis.

Al Jazeera English: Gaza woman left homeless and alone since the war began

At another talk Gideon Levy noted that Israeli rage and desire for revenge are not justifiedyou have to completely ignore the last 100 years in order to believe that Israel is entitled to revenge. They have far more to answer for than the Palestinians. The only way all this can possibly end well is if the U.S. intervenes. I dont see Israel coming to its senses and developing a conscience without pressure from the outside.

He also noted,that ethnic cleansing by the settlers in the West Bank is supposedly illegal but the Israel military protects the settlers. These are Jewish terroristsburning down houses and fields of Palestiniansunder the smokescreen of the Gazan war, There is encouragement of the governmentthe suffering of Arabs in East Jerusalemstill to some extent, Jerusalem has been annexed by Israel, so these neighborhoods have been invaded by settlers with the help of the police

This dehumanization of Palestinians is not a new phenomenon, but is typical of colonial governments. When the British General Dyer massacred 500 nonviolent protestors in Amritsar, India in 1919 he was not reprimanded by the British hierarchy. This flagrant injustice ignited all of India against British rule while Gandhi, who at one time admired the British, became extremely critical of the evil that British leaders had succumbed to. Despite being jailed by the British he spent two decades dedicated to expelling Britain from India.

Coincidentally, Britain, during the same period placed tens of thousands of troops in Palestine and assigned a High Commissioner, Sir Herbert Samuel who was supportive of Jewish immigration. Following him were eleven other High Commissioners who held authority over Palestine until 1948. The British withdrew from India and Palestine in 1947 and 1948, within a year of each other. Violence was rife in both withdrawals. Some parties were aggrieved for differing reasons. In India it was a partition between a Muslim and Hindu territory and British withdrawal in August, 1947. In Palestine the Zionist leadership attacked both the British and the Palestinians but withdrawal did not take place until May,1948. Gandhi did not live to see the formal withdrawal due to his assassination by a Hindu nationalist in January, 1948 who was convinced that Gandhi was too supportive of Muslims.

Useful Idiots: Gideon Levy on Israels Nazi Proposals

The Gandhian phrase: an eye for an eye makes everyone blind was quoted by Ofer Cassif, a now-suspended member of the Israeli Knesset, in an interview. We are, he said in a vicious cycle. Most of the people of Israel have to rid themselves of their rage He said: the government includes psychopaths and bigots who are happiest when they are destroying the opposition. Such people dont even care for Israeli people, they believe in the greater Israel, Eretz Israel [the largest expanse of biblical Israel] Obviously the intention is to drive the Palestinians out of Gazato expel the Gazansit is not a secret.they believe it..there are thousands who oppose this but the majority will only be able to change their minds when it is too late. The fascists in the Knesset do not want to see any opposition. [They now demand] that the police totally forbid any demonstrations against the present war against Gaza. One Knesset member wants to give M16 rifles to the west bank settlers. Americans must understand that these fascists in the Knesset may use their power eventually against usthe regular people of Israel.

Ofer has been struggling for peace and reconciliation with the Palestinians and their right of return to their homeland. He predicts that Israel is dooming itself not only by committing genocide against the Palestinians and shocking the entire world, but by arming its own citizens to the teeth. Civil war is around the corner as society grows ever more extremist while its democratic institutions are being dismantled. Unless there is rapid change, Israel will self-destruct from the inside. (See Ofers interviews here and here.)

In the case of the bombing of Gaza, a recent poll notes that a majority of Israelis support it despite its lethal consequences, As a result, they become complicit in the sin of a conflagration visited on another people, and in a vast moral universe of pain and suffering; all this from anger and vengeance and dispossession. When is enough not enough? How long will people suffer the traumas of injury after the death of friends and relatives? There are always consequences to violence, especially on a scale of what is now taking place, whether it is due to Hamas or Israel or America. The bigger the sin perpetrated against others (in this case the Palestinians) the more consequential the long- term psychological suffering, not only to the victims, but inevitably, to the aggressors as well. Moral injury is deep-seated and involves a long difficult process of healing and atonement. Such a process demands acknowledgement of the pain and suffering inflicted, and a willingness to face ones complicity in the consequences of collective decision making.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December, 6, 2023 / Ximen Mining Corp. (TSXV:XIM) (FRA:1XMA) (OTCQB:XXMMF) (the "Company" or "Ximen") announces initial information from its seventh drill hole at the Amelia Gold project in Camp McKinney near Rock Creek in southern BC.

Drilling at Amelia project in October 2023.

Drilling was done to prove-up extensions to the historic Cariboo-Amelia gold mine in Camp McKinney in the Greenwood Mining Division, BC. The Cariboo-Amelia mine was BC's first dividend paying gold mine. Over its 68-year history, the mine produced 81,602 ounces of gold and 32,439 ounces of silver from 112,254 tonnes milled (BC Minfile Records). The mine is situated within a 4-kilometer system of gold-quartz veins and historic workings.

View of 3D model of Cariboo mine (looking North) showing vein blocks and current drill holes.

The 2023 drill holes are testing the main McKinney vein beneath the eastern end of the historic mine. After the seventh drill holes was completed, a total of 1,846 meters of NQ sized core was drilled. The target vein was intersected in four holes (AM23-01, 03, 05 and 07) between 30 and 45 meters below the lowest mine level and over a strike length of 150 meters.

The mineralized intercepts range in core length from 0.26 meters to 0.70 meters and contain pyrite, sphalerite, galena and chalcopyrite. Although visible gold hasn't been observed, this sulphide mineral assemblage is the same as that reported to occur in the vein where it was mined historically. Core samples will be sent for analysis once the geological logging and sampling is completed.

Hole From To Length (m) Mineralization AM23-01 218.02 218.63 0.61 Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, Gn, Cp AM23-03 230.80 231.06 0.26 Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, Gn, Cp AM23-05 214.55 215.25 0.70 Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, Cp AM23-07 194.60 194.81 0.21 Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, Gn AM23-07 195.71 195.99 0.28 Quartz Vein with Py, Po, Sp, Gn AM23-07 215.47 215.66 0.19 Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, Gn AM23-07 217.64 217.76 0.32 Quartz Vein with Py, Po, Sp, Gn

Abbreviations: Py: pyrite, Sp: sphalerite, Gn: galena, Cp: chalcopyrite

Note: Reported lengths are core lengths not true widths.

Core Photos

Close-up photo of sulphide mineralization intersected in holes AM23-07; galena, PbS (silvery grey) and sphalerite ZnS (brown). Width of view is about 10 cm.

Holes AM23-03, 04, 05 also intersected a second mineralized vein about 50 meters south of the main vein that is also mineralized with pathfinder minerals. Its extent has yet to be determined.

Holes AM23-02, 04 and 06 targeted the zone at greater depths but did not intersect the vein. It is likely that the vein has been displaced by faults similar to those which occur in the upper levels of the mine, where the vein is displaced a relatively short distance to the south by flat lying faults.

Overall, the results indicate there is potential for more tonnes to be mined below the lowest level of the mine workings and that there is potential for additional material in parallel zones.

Readers are cautioned that historical records referred to in this News Release have been examined but not verified by a Qualified Person. Further work is required to verify that historical records referred to in this News Release are accurate.

Dr. Mathew Ball, P.Geo., VP Exploration for Ximen Mining Corp. and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, approved the technical information contained in this News Release.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

"Christopher R. Anderson"

Christopher R. Anderson,

President, CEO and Director

604 488-3900

Investor Relations:

604-488-3900,

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

About Ximen Mining Corp.

Ximen Mining Corp. owns 100% interest in three of its precious metal projects located in southern BC. Ximen`s two Gold projects, The Amelia Gold Mine and The Brett Epithermal Gold Project. Ximen also owns the Treasure Mountain Silver Project adjacent to the past producing Huldra Silver Mine. Currently, the Treasure Mountain Silver Project is under an option agreement. The option partner is making annual staged cash and stocks payments as well as funding the development of the project. The company has also acquired control of the Kenville Gold mine near Nelson British Columbia which comes with surface and underground rights, buildings and equipment.

Ximen is a publicly listed company trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol XIM, in the USA under the symbol XXMMF, and in Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin Stock Exchanges in Germany under the symbol 1XMA and WKN with the number as A2JBKL.

This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the receipt of TSX Venture Exchange approval and the exercise of the Option by Ximen. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts; they are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "aims," "potential," "goal," "objective," "prospective," and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "can," "could" or "should" occur, or are those statements, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include the possibility that the TSX Venture Exchange may not accept the proposed transaction in a timely manner, if at all. The reader is urged to refer to the Company's reports, publicly available through the Canadian Securities Administrators' System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) at www.sedar.com for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any state in the United States in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Noram Ventures Inc. ("Noram") (TSXVenture:NRM) (Frankfurt:N7R) (OTCQB:NRVTF) is pleased to announce the completion of the second hole of its 10 hole drill program; referred to as CVZ-83. CVZ-83 was drilled to a depth of 770 feet (234.7m). It is the deepest hole ever drilled on Noram's wholly-owned Zeus Project in Clayton Valley Nevada, USA. The core has been cleaned, logged, photographed and is in the process of being sampled for assay by the crew with the independent consulting group Big Rock Exploration of Duluth, Minnesota, USA. A graphical representation of the hole's lithology is shown in Figure 1. The hole was drilled approximately 860 feet (265 meters) north of CVZ-82, reported in Noram's most recent news release.

Figure 1 - Core hole CVZ-83 lithology.

After passing through 13.5 feet (4.11m) of unconsolidated surface gravel, the hole encountered the green tuffaceous mudstones and volcanic rocks logged in previous drill holes. These rocks extend to the bottom of the hole, a thickness of 756.5 feet (230.6m). From previous drilling, it is believed that the tuffaceous mudstones and volcanics are highly prospective for the high-grade lithium values that have become the norm for the Zeus deposit. If this is proven to be true from the pending assays, it will increase the deposit to the northwest from its previously defined extent. Figure 2 is a Google Earth graphic that shows the current drilling status of the Phase VII drilling program.

Figure 2 - Zeus Phase VII drilling status with the outline of Noram's claims - Placer claims in blue and lode claims in red.

With the completion of CVZ-83, the drill has moved to CVZ-84 and drilling is in progress. Sampling of the core using an industry standard QA/QC protocol is underway. Samples are to be delivered to ALS Laboratories in Reno, Nevada for assaying. Assay results are pending.

"This is extremely exciting news for Noram. Not only are we expanding the size and extent of the resource in the northwest quadrant; but we are also validating our theory about this deposit at depth by drilling some of these much deeper holes. All of which has major implications on a successful PFS" commented Sandy MacDougall, Executive Chairman and Director.

For additional information:

Contacts:

In Europe: VP Corporate Development This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Elsewhere: Investor Relations at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website: www.noramlithiumcorp.com

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Sandy MacDougall

Founder and Executive Chairman

About Noram Lithium Corp.

Noram Lithium Corp. (TSXV:NRM) | (OTCQB:NRVTF) | (Frankfurt:N7R) is focusing on advancing its 100%-owned Zeus Lithium Project located in Clayton Valley, Nevada an emerging lithium hub within the United States.

Qualified Person

The technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Brad Peek, M.Sc., CPG, who is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, and also Vice President of Exploration for Noram.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release may contain forward-looking information which is not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this news release includes statements regarding, among other things, plans for ongoing development of the Zeus Lithium Project. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, regulatory approval processes, results of further exploration work, and availability of capital on terms acceptable to the Company. Although Noram believes that the assumptions used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, including that all necessary regulatory approvals will be obtained in a timely manner, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Noram disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 05, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- K92 Mining Inc. (K92 or the Company) (TSX: KNT; OTCQB: KNTNF) is pleased to announce results from the updated resource estimate completed on the Kora and Judd deposits, at its producing Kainantu Gold Mine in Papua New Guinea. The resource estimate is based on surface and underground exploration diamond drilling and underground face sampling. The focus of exploration at Kora and Judd since the previous resource estimates (previous effective date of October 31, 2021 for Kora and December 31, 2021 for Judd) has been predominantly on resource growth.

Kora and Judd Deposit Mineral Resource Estimate Highlights

Kora Measured and Indicated Resource of 2.3 million ounces at 10.24 g/t gold equivalent (AuEq) (1) , representing an +8% increase from the previous resource estimate of 2.1 million ounces in October 2021.

Kora Inferred Resource has increased substantially to 3.9 million ounces at 8.60 g/t AuEq, representing a +58% increase from the previous resource estimate of 2.5 million ounces in October 2021. This has resulted primarily from successful drilling of the southern extensions of the K1 and K2 lodes.

Judd Measured and Indicated Resource of 0.35 million ounces at 8.68 g/t AuEq (1) , representing an increase of +167% from the previous resource estimate of 0.13 million ounces in December 2021.

Judd Inferred Resource of 0.56 million ounces at 7.72 g/t AuEq, representing a +211% increase from the previous resource estimate of 0.18 million ounces in December 2021. The increase in the Judd resource has been the result of a significant amount of drilling since the last resource, with drill defined strike length extended +130% since the end of 2021.

Significant component of the updated Kora and Judd Mineral Resource are high grade (see Fig 3, 4, 7 and 8).

Excellent reconciliation between mill feed and the updated resource model with a 1% difference in gold ounces. Depletion from the previous resource based on production was approximately 900 kt at 10.4 g/t AuEq (7.9 g/t Au, 0.68% Cu, 12 g/t Ag) or 300 koz AuEq contained metal(2).

Resource Growth Opportunities and Exploration Targets

Significant expansion potential at both the Kora and Judd vein systems. The Kora vein system is open along strike and at depth, with exploration focused on Kora, Kora South and Kora Deeps target areas. The Judd vein system is open in all directions, with drilling focused on Judd, Judd South and Judd Deeps target areas. Drilling plans to commence at Kora South Deeps and Judd South Deeps in 2024 (see Fig 10 and 11).

In addition to the Kora and Judd vein systems, there are multiple near-mine high-priority exploration areas including: Arakompa, Maniape and Karempe. Drilling at Arakompa is planned to commence in late-2023 / Q1 2024 (see Fig 12).

Multiple highly prospective porphyry targets also being explored, with drilling at the A1 Porphyry target underway. The Blue Lake Porphyry deposit which hosts a 10.8 million ounces AuEq / 4.7 billion pounds inferred resource (see August 9, 2022 press release) is open at depth and the Company plans to follow-up with a third, deeper program.

Currently up to 11 drill rigs operating and in October 2023, K92 increased its exploration budget to a record of US$20 million.

Note (1): Cut-Off of 3 g/t gold equivalent.

Note (2): Based on production recorded from the beginning of Q4 2021 to the end of Q3 2023.

Table 1  Global Kora and Judd Mineral Resource (Effective Date September 12, 2023, 3 g/t gold equivalent cut-off)

Tonnes Gold Silver Copper AuEq Mt g/t moz g/t moz % kt g/t moz Kora Measured 3.7 8.74 1.0 20.5 2.5 1.21 45.0 10.96 1.3 Indicated 3.1 6.99 0.7 21.9 2.2 1.31 41.3 9.40 1.0 Total M&I 6.9 7.94 1.8 21.1 4.7 1.25 86.2 10.24 2.3 Inferred 14.3 5.60 2.6 28.7 13.2 1.62 231.2 8.60 3.9 Judd Measured 0.4 9.05 0.12 19.0 0.25 0.80 3.2 10.58 0.14 Indicated 0.8 6.37 0.17 15.6 0.42 0.73 6.2 7.76 0.21 Total M&I 1.2 7.24 0.29 16.7 0.67 0.75 9.4 8.68 0.35 Inferred 2.3 6.27 0.45 15.8 1.15 0.76 17.2 7.72 0.56 Kora and Judd Measured 4.1 8.77 1.2 20.4 2.7 1.17 48.2 10.92 1.5 Indicated 4.0 6.86 0.9 20.6 2.6 1.19 47.4 9.05 1.2 Total M&I 8.1 7.83 2.0 20.5 5.3 1.18 95.6 10.00 2.6 Inferred 16.5 5.69 3.0 27.0 14.3 1.50 248.3 8.48 4.5

The Independent and Qualified Person responsible for the Mineral Resource estimate is Simon Tear, P.Geo. of H & S Consultants Pty. Ltd., Sydney, Australia, and the effective date of the estimate is September 12, 2023.

Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Geological interpretation has generated a series of narrow, sub-vertical vein structures based on delineated wireframes on 10m, 20m and 25m spaced cross sections. The design of the lode wireframes is based on a combination of logged geology, Au, Cu & Ag assay grades and locally on a nominal minimum mining width of 5.2m, all coupled with geological sense.

Resources were compiled at 3 g/t gold equivalent cut-off grades for Kora and Judd.

Density (t/m 3 ) was modelled using Ordinary Kriging on 2,778 sample measurements. Areas within the mineral wireframes where no density grades were interpolated had average default values inserted at appropriate levels.

) was modelled using Ordinary Kriging on 2,778 sample measurements. Areas within the mineral wireframes where no density grades were interpolated had average default values inserted at appropriate levels. Reported tonnage and grade figures are rounded from raw estimates to reflect the order of accuracy of the estimate.

Minor variations may occur during the addition of rounded numbers.

Estimations used metric units (metres, tonnes and g/t).

Gold equivalents are calculated as AuEq = Au g/t + Cu%*1.6481+ Ag g/t*0.0114. Gold price US$1,700/oz; Silver US$22.5/oz; Copper US$4.00/lb. Metal payabilities and recoveries are incorporated into the AuEq formula. Recoveries of 95% for copper and 80% for silver were used.

John Lewins, K92 Chief Executive Officer and Director, stated, The updated Kora and Judd Resource estimate has significantly exceeded our expectations for both the Measured and Indicated resource and the Inferred resource. The combined Kora and Judd Measured and Indicated resource increased +13%, net of depletion, to 8.1 million tonnes at 10.00 g/t AuEq for 2.6 million ounces AuEq, and the Inferred resource increased +70%, net of depletion, to 16.5 million tonnes at 8.48 g/t AuEq for 4.5 million ounces AuEq. When comparing the updated resource models depletion to mill actuals, Kainantu has delivered a gold reconciliation in-line with the updated resource model within 1%.

Importantly, the resource growth was also achieved expeditiously, over a period of less than two years and at discovery cost of less than US$7.5 per ounce gold equivalent. This was driven by the strong continuity of the Kora and Judd vein systems, with almost all holes intersecting the mineralized structure.

Looking ahead, exploration at the Kora and Judd vein systems will remain a major focus, with drilling targeting multiple highly prospective target areas concurrently, including Kora, Kora South, Kora Deeps, Judd, Judd South and Judd Deeps. Kora Deeps and Judd Deeps have only recently commenced drilling from the twin incline, and the initial reported results from this area via Judd underground development in late-Q3 have been very promising, including 4.6 m at 14.89 g/t AuEq and 6.8 m at 11.77 g/t AuEq from channel sampling in an area previously sparsely drilled and interpreted to be waste. Later in 2024, exploration plans to commence at Kora South Deeps and Judd South Deeps, also from the twin incline.

Beyond the Kora and Judd vein systems, there are multiple highly prospective areas for resource growth near mine infrastructure, including Arakompa, Maniape and Karempe. Exploration pad construction at Arakompa, which hosts a historic resource of 800 koz at 9.0 g/t Au, is underway with plans to commence drilling near-term. Porphyry exploration continues to progress, with drilling underway at A1 and plans for follow-up drilling at the Blue Lake Porphyry in the medium term. Blue Lake hosts an Inferred Resource of 10.8 moz AuEq or 4.7 blbs CuEq.

Recently, in October 2023, K92 increased its exploration expenditure guidance to US$20 million. This was driven by our conviction in the geological potential of the Kainantu Project and we look forward to announcing results from multiple target areas near-term in addition to operational announcements as we transform Kainantu into a Tier 1 Mid-Tier producer over the next 18 months with construction of the Stage 3 and 4 Expansions underway.

Key Assumptions and Parameters

Underground drilling consists of diamond core for a range of core sizes depending on the length of hole and expected ground conditions. Sampling is sawn half core under geological control and generally ranges between 0.5m to 1.0m. Underground face sampling is completed for every fired round and is to industry standard. QAQC data indicated no significant issues with the sampling or the accuracy of the on-site analysis. Current core recovery of the mineral zone is +95%, with initial drilling recoveries around the 90% mark.

Geological logging is consistent and is based on a full set of logging codes covering lithology, alteration, and mineralization. All sampling and analytical work for the mine exploration program is performed by Intertek Testing Services (PNG) LTD, an independent accredited laboratory that is located on site. External check assays for QA/QC purposes are performed at SGS Australia Pty Ltd in Townsville, Queensland, Australia.

The geological interpretation of the vein systems is represented as 3D wireframe solids snapped to a combination of diamond drillhole data and underground face sampling (see Fig 1 and 5). Definition of the wireframes is based on identified gold (and copper and silver) mineralization in drill core nominally at a 0.1-0.2 g/t Au gold cut-off in conjunction with geological control/sense and current mining widths. The Kora Link is a broader zone of more variably continuous mineralization and butts onto both the K1 and K2 lodes in various places. A total of 4 lodes were delineated for the Judd deposit, with a dominant J1 lode and subordinate parallel lodes for J2, J3 and J1W.

The wireframes were used to extract 1-metre best-fit composites (minimum of 0.5m) from the drillhole & sampling database for gold, copper and silver. A total of 30,791 composites were used in the grade interpolation, 24,925 for Kora and 5,866 for Judd. A gold top cut of 1000 g/t was applied to K2, a 400 g/t top cut was applied to the Kora Link and a 400 g/t top cut was applied for the Judd composites. A top cut of 300 g/t was applied to the silver composites but no top cuts was applied to the copper composites. Variography was good for the mined areas of K1 and J1 (due to the face sampling) but only moderate to poor for other areas, as would likely be expected for the style of mineralization.

Grade interpolation of the composite data was completed using Ordinary Kriging with a block size of 1m (X direction) by 5m (Y direction) by 5m (Z direction). A larger block size check model for Kora indicated no evidence of over-smoothing of the gold grade with the smaller block size. A check model excluding the face sampling data indicated no significant difference in gold grade for the measured and indicated estimates at Kora.

Density data was modelled using Ordinary Kriging on a total of 2,778 sample measurements for the different lodes. Density values were determined using the weight in air/weight in water method (Archimedes Principle) on single pieces of representative core. Default average density values were applied to the different lodes where there was a lack of modelled data. Average density for the global estimates are 2.77t/m3 for Kora and 2.61t/m3 for Judd.

A three-pass search strategy was used for the grade interpolation. Search ellipse parameters are listed below. 4 search domains with varying ellipsoid orientations were used for both of K1 and K2 with the search ellipse orientations generally reflecting the subtle changes in dip and strike of the vein systems. The much smaller Kora Link Lode required only 2 search domains as did the J1 and J2 lodes at Judd.

Table 2  Mineral Resource Search Ellipse Pass Specifications

Pass No X radius

(m) Y radius

(m) Z radius

(m) Min Data Min Octants Max Data 1 2 25 25 12 4 32 2 4 50 50 12 4 32 3 12 125 125 6 2 32

Allocation of the classification of the Mineral Resources is derived from the search pass numbers produced from the grade interpolation which essentially is a function of the drillhole and face sample data point distribution. Additional considerations were included in the assessment of the classification; in particular, the geological understanding and complexity of the deposit, sample recovery, quality of the QAQC sampling and outcomes, density data, check models and reconciliation with production. Defined shapes were used to better define the Measured Resource distribution (i.e. the removal of the spotted dog effect).

Table 3  Resource Classification by Pass Category

Pass Category Resource Classification 1 Measured 2 Indicated 3 Inferred

All material mined within the mineral wireframes up to the effective date has been removed from the resource model. Gold reconciliation of the new resource model with the global mill feed material up to the end of the third quarter for 2023 has been reasonably good with the difference in gold ounces from the mill being within ~1% of that estimated by the model.

The Inferred Mineral Resources in this estimate have a lower level of confidence than that applied to an Indicated Mineral Resource and must not be converted to a Mineral Reserve. It is reasonably expected that the majority of the Inferred Mineral Resource could be updated to an Indicated Mineral Resource with continued exploration.

Gold equivalents are calculated as AuEq = Au g/t + Cu%*1.6481+ Ag g/t*0.0114. Gold price US$1,700/oz; Silver US$22.5/oz; Copper US$4.00/lb. Metal payabilities and recoveries are incorporated into the AuEq formula. Recoveries of 95% for copper and 80% for silver.

The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.

Mineral Resources, which are not Mineral Reserves, do not have demonstrated economic viability.

It is anticipated that the updated Mineral Resource estimate will not result in a material change to the mineral reserve estimate set forth in the Technical Report entitled Independent Technical Report, Kainantu Gold Mine Integrated Development Plan, Kainantu Project, Papua New Guinea with an effective date of January 1, 2022 (the IDP Technical Report). In addition, the increase to the Measured and Indicated mineral resources and inferred mineral resources will not materially impact the design parameters and conclusions outlined in the Kainantu Stage 3 Expansion Definitive Feasibility Study Case or Kainantu Stage 4 Expansion Preliminary Economic Assessment Case of the IDP Technical Report. However, as a result of the updated Mineral Resource estimate, the Company expects the potential mine life to be extended for both the Stage 3 Expansion Definitive Feasibility Study Case and Stage 4 Expansion Preliminary Economic Assessment Case.

Qualified Persons

K92 mine geology manager and mine exploration manager, Andrew Kohler, MAIG, a qualified person under the meaning of Canadian National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and is responsible for the technical content of this news release. Data verification by Mr. Kohler includes significant time onsite reviewing drill core, face sampling, underground workings, and discussing work programs and results with geology and mining personnel.

Simon Tear, P.Geo of H & S Consultants Pty. Ltd. of Sydney, Australia is a Qualified Person as defined under NI 43-101 for the Mineral Resource estimate discussed above. Mr. Tear has reviewed and approved the contents of this press release in relation to the Mineral Resources.

About K92

K92 Mining Inc. is engaged in the production of gold, copper and silver at the Kainantu Gold Mine in the Eastern Highlands province of Papua New Guinea, as well as exploration and development of mineral deposits in the immediate vicinity of the mine. The Company declared commercial production from Kainantu in February 2018 and is in a strong financial position. A maiden resource estimate on the Blue Lake copper-gold porphyry project was completed in August 2022. K92 is operated by a team of mining company professionals with extensive international mine-building and operational experience.

On Behalf of the Company,

John Lewins, Chief Executive Officer and Director

For further information, please contact David Medilek, P.Eng., CFA, President at +1-604-416-4445

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release includes certain forward-looking statements under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation: (i) the results of the Kainantu Mine Definitive Feasibility Study, and the Kainantu 2022 Preliminary Economic Assessment, including the Stage 3 Expansion, a new standalone 1.2 mtpa process plant and supporting infrastructure; (ii) statements regarding the expansion of the mine and development of any of the deposits; (iii) the Kainantu Stage 4 Expansion, operating two standalone process plants, larger surface infrastructure and mining throughputs; and (iv) the potential extended life of the Kainantu Mine.

All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as expect, plan, anticipate, project, target, potential, schedule, forecast, budget, estimate, intend or believe and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions will, would, may, could, should or might occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond our ability to control, that may cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, without limitation, Public Health Crises, including the COVID-19 virus; changes in the price of gold, silver, copper and other metals in the world markets; fluctuations in the price and availability of infrastructure and energy and other commodities; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; volatility in price of our common shares; inherent risks associated with the mining industry, including problems related to weather and climate in remote areas in which certain of the Companys operations are located; failure to achieve production, cost and other estimates; risks and uncertainties associated with exploration and development; uncertainties relating to estimates of mineral resources including uncertainty that mineral resources may never be converted into mineral reserves; the Companys ability to carry on current and future operations, including development and exploration activities; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; the Companys ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the availability and costs of achieving the Stage 3 Expansion or the Stage 4 Expansion; the ability of the Company to achieve the inputs the price and market for outputs, including gold, silver and copper; failures of information systems or information security threats; political, economic and other risks associated with the Companys foreign operations; geopolitical events and other uncertainties, such as the conflicts in Ukraine, Israel and Palestine; compliance with various laws and regulatory requirements to which the Company is subject to, including taxation; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions, including relationship with the communities in Papua New Guinea and other jurisdictions it operates; other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry; and the risks, uncertainties and other factors referred to in the Companys Annual Information Form under the heading Risk Factors.

Estimates of mineral resources are also forward-looking statements because they constitute projections, based on certain estimates and assumptions, regarding the amount of minerals that may be encountered in the future and/or the anticipated economics of production. The estimation of mineral resources and mineral reserves is inherently uncertain and involves subjective judgments about many relevant factors. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The accuracy of any such estimates is a function of the quantity and quality of available data, and of the assumptions made and judgments used in engineering and geological interpretation, Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance, and actual results and future events could materially differ from those anticipated in such statements. Although we have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actual results to differ materially from those that are anticipated, estimated, or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

CAUTIONARY NOTE TO U.S. READERS CONCERNING ESTIMATES OF MINERAL RESERVES AND MINERAL RESOURCES

Information concerning the properties and operations of K92 has been prepared in accordance with Canadian standards under applicable Canadian securities laws and may not be comparable to similar information for United States companies. The terms Mineral Resource, Measured Mineral Resource, Indicated Mineral Resource and Inferred Mineral Resource used in this presentation are Canadian mining terms as defined in the Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves adopted by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) on May 10, 2014 and incorporated by reference in National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101). While the terms Mineral Resource, Measured Mineral Resource, Indicated Mineral Resource and Inferred Mineral Resource are recognized and required by Canadian securities regulations, they are not defined terms under standards of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). As such, certain information contained in this presentation concerning descriptions of mineralization and resources under Canadian standards is not comparable to similar information made public by United States companies subject to the reporting and disclosure requirements of the SEC. An Inferred Mineral Resource has a great amount of uncertainty as to its existence and as to its economic and legal feasibility. Under Canadian rules, estimates of Inferred Mineral Resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource will ever be upgraded to a higher confidence category through additional exploration drilling and technical evaluation. Readers are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource exists or is economically or legally mineable. Under United States standards, mineralization may not be classified as a Reserve unless the determination has been made that the mineralization could be economically and legally produced or extracted at the time the Reserve estimation is made. Readers are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of the Measured or Indicated Mineral Resources will ever be converted into Mineral Reserves. In addition, the definitions of Proven Mineral Reserves and Probable Mineral Reserves under CIM standards differ from the standards of the SEC. Historical results or feasibility models presented herein are not guarantees or expectations of future performance.

Figure 1  Kora Resource Lode Wireframes Long Section, Cross Section and Plan View

Figure 2  K1 and K2 Resource Category Long Sections

Figure 3  K1 Resource Long Section (Resource Statement is for 3 g/t AuEq Cut-off only)

Figure 4  K2 Resource Long Section (Resource Statement is for 3 g/t AuEq Cut-off only)

Figure 5  Judd Resource Lode Wireframes Long Section, Cross Section and Plan View

Figure 6  J1 and J2 Resource Category Long Sections

Figure 7  J1 Resource Long Section (Resource Statement is for 3 g/t AuEq Cut-off only)

Figure 8  J2 Resource Long Section (Resource Statement is for 3 g/t AuEq Cut-off only)

Figure 9  Kora-Judd Vein System Long Section

Figure 10  Kora-Irumafimpa Vein System Long Section

Figure 11  Judd Vein System Long Section

Figure 12  Near Mine Exploration Targets

Suite 488 - 1090 West Georgia Street

Vancouver, British Columbia

Canada V6E 3V7

Telephone: +1 (604) 416-4445

Facsimile: +1 (604) 608-9110

www.k92mining.com
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 5, 2023 / Torq Resources Inc. (TSXV:TORQ),(OTCQX:TRBMF) ("Torq" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the results of a trenching program at its Margarita iron-oxide-copper-gold (IOCG) project located approximately 65 kilometres (km) north of the city of Copiapo in Chile (Figure 1). The purpose of the trenching program was to further define the geometry of the mineralization at the Falla 13 discovery area as well as to evaluate undrilled target areas in the northern half of the project. The trenching program consisted of 443.5 metres (m), primarily along road cuts and drill platforms created during the phase III drill program. Trench 23MRT-001 intersected 34 m of 0.89 g/t gold and 0.22% copper along a prominent west-northwest structure that links the Falla 13 discovery area to the recently announced second discovery where 42 m of 1.1 g/t gold and 0.48% copper was intersected in drill hole 23MAR-031R (see October 18, 2023 news release) (Figure 2).

Trenching Technical Discussion:

The mineralized west-northwest structure that trench 23MRT-001 crossed was previously drilled in the Company's phase II drill program last year, when 30 m of 1.02 g/t gold and 0.57% copper (88 m - 118 m in depth) was intercepted within a larger interval of 130 m of 0.36 g/t gold and 0.28% copper in drill hole 22MAR-023R (see November 28, 2022 news release) (Figures 2 - 3). Trench 23MRT-001 is the most significant result from the trenching program as it demonstrates that the mineralization in drill hole 22MAR-023R continues to surface and has the potential to extend 1 km along the west-northwest structure (Figure 2). Table 1 below summarizes the highlights of the recently completed trench results.

Table 1: Highlights from the Margarita trenching program

Trench ID From (m) To (m) Length (m) Au (g/t) Cu (%) 23MRT-001 24 58 34 0.87 0.22 23MRT-009 2 7 5 0.91 0.21 23MRT-013 12 20 8 0.11 0.01 23MRT-015 0 2 2 0.35 0.03 23MRT-016 0 2 2 0.21 0.09 23MRT-020 0 2 2 0.11 0.05 23MRT-021 4 10 6 0.32 0.06 23MRT-022 0 4 4 0.31 0.21 23MRT-022 16 22 6 0.29 0.05 23MRT-027 8 12 4 0.32 0.06 Intervals - no less than 5m of >= 0.1 g/t Au, maximum consecutive dilution 6m

Margarita Phase III Drill Results:

The Company has also received the results from the remaining seven drill holes from the phase III drill program. While intersecting some zones of anomalous mineralization, the results did not materially add to the known information about the project. The Company will now continue to focus on the discoveries made at the Falla 13, Cototuda and Margarita structural corridors. In addition, the Company will continue to refine its targeting based on the results from drill hole 23MAR-031R, where 42 m of 1.1 g/t gold and 0.48% copper was intercepted from 246 m - 288 m in depth 200 m to the west of the original Falla 13 discovery. There was no geochemical anomaly present on surface, making this a 'blind' discovery based on permissive geology. Results from the final seven drill holes of the phase III drill program are presented below in Table 2.

Table 2: Margarita phase III drill results

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Length (m) Au (g/t) Cu (%) Cu (%) Au (g/t) 0.1 g/t Au Cutoff1 0.1% Cu Cutoff2 23MAR-029R 44 46 2 0.33 0.13 - - 226 228 2 0.37 0.16 - - 23MAR-030R 146 172 26 0.18 0.09 - - 166 172 6 - - 0.32 0.34 186 188 2 0.52 0.05 - - 23MAR-032R 180 184 4 - - 0.30 0.07 224 226 2 - - 0.53 0.12 23MAR-033R No significant interval 23MAR-034R 0 24 24 - - 0.11 0.03 48 52 4 - - 0.20 0.04 23MAR-037R 38 52 14 0.45 0.05 - - 62 66 4 0.63 0.06 - - 70 80 10 - - 0.35 0.06 148 158 10 - - 0.10 0.02 23Mar-038R 0 2 2 - - 0.36 0.11 54 58 4 - - 0.24 0.03 70 74 4 - - 0.16 0.15 Interval - No less than 5m of >= 0.1 g/t Au, maximum consecutive dilution 6m Interval - No less than 5m of >= 0.1 % Cu, maximum consecutive dilution 8m

Figure 1: Illustrates the location of the Margarita project within the Coastal Cordillera belt and its proximity to major deposits in the region.

Figure 2: Illustrates the position of trench 23MRT-001, which crossed a prominent mineralized west-northwest structure, known to be mineralized from drill hole 22MAR-023R which intercepted 30m of 1.02g/t gold and 0.57% copper in the phase II drill program. Trench 23MRT-001 intercepted 34 m of 0.87 g/t gold and 0.22% copper, extending the mineralization from drill hole 22MAR-023R to surface. Target fault zones at the Falla 13 discovery area are highlighted by the red polygons.

Figure 3: Illustrates the position of the remaining seven drill holes from the Margarita program, as highlighted by the orange drill collars. Anomalous intervals from the remaining seven drill holes included 14 m of 0.45 g/t gold and 0.05% copper in drill hole 23MAR-037R and 26 m of 0.18 g/t gold and 0.09% copper in drill hole 23MAR-030R.

Financing and Corporate Updates:

The Company advises that its Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), Elizabeth Senez, will be leaving the Company by year-end to pursue a CFO role at a mid-tier mining company. While the Company completes the recruitment process for a successor, an accounting services firm, which performed the CFO role during the recent 4-month parental leave of the departing CFO, will again step into the interim role until a permanent replacement is recruited. The Company's CEO, Shawn Wallace, stated "On behalf of Torq and the Board, I would like to thank Libby for her meaningful contributions to the Company over the last three years. We wish her all the best in her future endeavours."

The Company's previously announced prospectus supplement offering of a minimum of $4 million to a maximum of $6 million of equity units is now expected to complete by mid-December 2023. The Company also announces that the maturity date of the Company's 2022 credit facility, currently drawn in the amount C$2.5 million, has been extended by agreement with the lender from July 11, 2024 until July 11, 2025. In consideration of the extension, the Company has agreed to cancel the lender's July 11, 2024 share purchase warrants (3,333,333 at $0.60 and 769,231 at $0.65) and issue a total of 7,500,000 share purchase warrants with an exercise price of $0.35 with expiry date of July 11, 2025. The creditor warrants have a blocker limiting exercise to the extent the holder would thereby exceed 9.9% of issued shares.

The Company's principal shareholder, Gold Fields Atacama Holdings Inc., a wholly owned affiliate of Gold Fields Limited ("Gold Fields"), has reaffirmed its commitment to purchase equity in connection with the supplement offering, but given the terms of its September 6, 2022 investment agreement with the Company (filed at sedarplus.ca on September 20, 2022) Gold Fields' affiliate will do so by concurrent private placement of units with the same terms as the prospectus supplement units. The units to be purchased by Gold Fields will differ from the units offered under the supplement in that the warrants included in those units will be subject to a blocker provision limiting exercise of the warrants to a percentage of issued common shares of Torq, which percentage is still under discussion. The common shares and warrants of Torq that will be issued to Gold Fields will have a four month hold and the warrants will have a term of up to 60 months because of the requirements of the blocker and the terms of the 2022 investment agreement. Both the credit facility warrants and the Gold Fields' affiliate's participation are subject to customary TSX Venture Exchange approval.

Michael Henrichsen (Chief Geological Officer), P.Geo is the QP who assumes responsibility for the technical contents of this release.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD,

Shawn Wallace

CEO

For further information on Torq Resources, please visit www.torqresources.com or contact Natasha Frakes, VP, Communications at (778) 729-0500 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

About Torq Resources

Torq is a Vancouver-based copper and gold exploration company with a portfolio of premium holdings in Chile. The Company is establishing itself as a leader of new exploration in prominent mining belts, guided by responsible, respectful and sustainable practices. The Company was built by a management team with prior success in monetizing exploration assets and its specialized technical team is recognized for their extensive experience working with major mining companies, supported by robust safety standards and technical proficiency. The technical team includes Chile-based geologists with invaluable local expertise and a noteworthy track record for major discovery in the country. Torq is committed to operating at the highest standards of applicable environmental, social and governance practices in the pursuit of a landmark discovery. For more information, visit www.torqresources.com.

2023 Margarita Trench Sampling

Approximately 2-5 kg of material were taken from each 2 m trench interval and sent to ALS Lab in Copiapo, Chile for preparation and then to ALS Labs in Santiago, Chile and Lima, Peru for analysis. Preparation included crushing core sample to 90% < 2mm and pulverizing 1,000 g of crushed material to better than 85% < 75 microns. All samples are assayed using 30 g nominal weight fire assay with AAS finish (Au-AA23), multi-element four acid digest ICP-AES/ICP-MS method (ME-MS61), and copper sulphuric acid leach with AAS finish (Cu-AA05). QA/QC programs for 2023 trench samples using internal standard samples, field and lab duplicates, standards and blanks indicate good accuracy and precision in a large majority of standards assayed.

Margarita RC Drilling

Analytical samples were taken using 1/8 of each 2 m interval material (chips) and sent to ALS Lab in Copiapo, Chile for preparation and then to ALS Labs in Santiago, Chile and Lima, Peru for analysis. Preparation included crashing core sample to 90% < 2mm and pulverizing 1,000 g of crushed material to better than 85% < 75 microns. All samples are assayed using 50 g nominal weight fire assay with AAS finish (Au-AA24), multi-element four acid digest ICP-AES/ICP-MS method (ME-MS61), and copper sulphuric acid leach with AAS finish (Cu-AA05). Where MS61 results were greater or near 10,000 ppm Cu the assays were repeated with ore grade four acid digest method (Cu-OG62). QA/QC programs for 2023 RC drilling samples using internal standard samples, field and lab duplicates, standards and blanks indicate good accuracy and precision in a large majority of standards assayed.

True widths of mineralization are unknown based on current geometric understanding of the mineralized intervals.

Canadian mineral terminology and standards differ from those of other countries. The Company's public disclosure filings highlight some of these differences.

Forward Looking Information

This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking information is information that includes implied future performance and/or forecast information including information relating to, or associated with, exploration and or development of mineral properties, completion of the prospectus supplement offering, and TSX Venture Exchange approval of share and share purchase warrant issuances. These statements or graphical information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different (either positively or negatively) from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. For a discussion of risk factors which could adversely affect the forward looking statements, see the Company's public record filings 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.
MONTREAL, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Harfang Exploration Inc. (Harfang or the Company) (TSX-V: HAR) is pleased to report analytical results from its lithium discovery, known as the Ameliane showing, hosted in highly evolved LCT spodumene-bearing pegmatites on the Serpent-Radisson Property (the Property) located in Eeyou Istchee James Bay, Quebec (Figures 1 and 2).

The Property, consisting of 988 claims (50,843 hectares), is also host to over 50 high-grade gold occurrences discovered by the Company since 2017. The Property is located proximal to the La Grande-Opinaca subprovince boundary. The majority of the lithium and gold deposits in James Bay are located near such major boundaries.

Additionally, the field team has observed coarse-grained tantalite crystals in nearby pegmatites and outlined a >15 km2 corridor rated as high potential for additional discoveries based on in-field X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF") geoanalyses (Figure 3).

Highlights

Grab samples up to 2.61 and 4.56% Li 2 O in outcrops at Ameliane showing;

Possible stacking of shallow-dipping and sub-parallel spodumene-bearing pegmatite dykes identified laterally over 300 metres at Ameliane;

Grab samples with high-grade tantalum up to 21,000 ppm Ta (2.56% Ta 2 O 5 ) and >25,000 ppm Ta (>3.05% Ta 2 O 5 );

Prospective zone (>15 km2) for additional discoveries of lithium based on the chemical composition of muscovite in pegmatites.

Mr. Ian Campbell, President and CEO, commented: The discovery of the Ameliane showing and several other spodumene-bearing LCT pegmatites is very encouraging and we have validated the high potential of the area for additional discoveries. It is a credit to our team who has previously discovered numerous high-grade gold occurrences outlining a large gold-in-bedrock anomaly beginning near the Ameliane pegmatites and extending westward for over 15 kilometres. We are well financed with over $5.7 M in the treasury and are looking forward to advancing our extensive gold and lithium portfolio of projects.

Ameliane Showing Area

The discovery area, known as the Ameliane showing, consists of several spodumene occurrences in pegmatite outcrops and boulders (see news release dated September 13, 2023) (Figures 4 and 5). The actual news release discloses the best lithium grades obtained from 145 rock samples sent to ALS (Val-dOr) following the fall program. The grab sample results are highlighted by values up to 1.53, 2.61 and 4.56% Li 2 O (Table 1). One sample with 7.36% Li 2 O was collected to test the lithium content of a single grey spodumene crystal. The reader is cautioned that grab samples are selective by nature and may not represent average grades of the mineralization in the pegmatites.

Table 1. List of grab samples above 0.25% Li 2 O (threshold value for lithium showings) collected on Serpent-Radisson in 2023.

Sample Easting Northing Li 2 O H872166 361609 5884004 7.36%* H872276 360780 5884212 4.56% H872274 360703 5884245 2.61% H872167 361611 5884002 1.53% B347259 360883 5884217 0.73% H872197 360923 5884211 0.64% B347260 360887 5884218 0.62% B347258 360924 5884211 0.33%

*Chemical composition of a single grey spodumene crystal.

Figure 5 gives the results of 20 samples collected in a 20 metre-long channel. The entire channel grades 0.82% Li 2 O over 20.0 metres, including 1.46% Li 2 O over 6.0 metres and 1.29% Li 2 O over 4.0 metres. Note that the channel represents the continuity of the lithium mineralization along the exposed dyke on the discovery outcrop rather than across its true width. The main dyke strikes in a N070 direction and dips at approximately 25 towards the south-east. The thickness of this dyke is estimated at approximately five metres. The distribution of spodumene occurrences at Ameliane suggests that several shallowly dipping pegmatite dykes could be stacked.

Pegmatites in the area contain muscovite and biotite with accessory minerals such as tourmaline, garnet, beryl, spodumene, tantalite and apatite. Spodumene, hosting the lithium mineralization, consists of light grey to greenish elongated crystals ranging from centimetre size up to 1.40 metres in length. The spodumene content reaches up to 50% locally at Ameliane.

Beryl crystals, up to 70 centimetres in length, are common in pegmatites at Serpent-Radisson. Their content reaches up to 10% locally and more than 30 grab samples exceed 360 ppm Be which is the threshold value for a beryllium showing (Figure 6). Cesium is strongly correlated with beryllium values as both chemical elements are hosted in beryl. Beryl-bearing pegmatites commonly have elevated cesium values in the range of a few hundreds of ppm. One sample of pegmatite without beryl returned >2.5% cesium suggesting the presence of pollucite. Tantalite, a tantalum-rich oxide, was also observed in a few pegmatite occurrences. Two grab samples with coarse-grained tantalite crystals returned 2.1% tantalum (2.56% Ta 2 O 5 ) and >2.5% tantalum (>3.05% Ta 2 O 5 ) (Figure 7). The pegmatite field at Serpent-Radisson has the potential to host lithium, tantalum, cesium and beryllium orebodies.

Field operations have identified a >15 km2 zone favourable for lithium as shown in Figure 3. This zone, defined by low potassium/rubidium (K/Rb) ratios on muscovite as measured with a hand-held XRF instrument, stretches into a NNE-SSW direction and likely extends towards the Arwen lithium discovery on Midland Explorations Elrond Property. Future prospecting for critical and strategic minerals on the Serpent-Radisson Property will be mainly deployed in that newly defined spodumene zone.

Future Exploration Program on Serpent-Radisson

Harfang is contemplating a drill program in 2024 in order to test the down-dip and lateral extent of the various dykes and the presence of potential stacked and unexposed dykes as part of its exploration strategy for critical and strategic minerals. The Mista Cu-Au-Ag showing (Mista) located 1.5 kilometres to the southwest would also be drilled. Channel sampling across the Mista mineralized horizon, which has been traced laterally over 350 metres, previously returned up to 1.00% Cu, 0.21 g/t Au and 7.9 g/t Ag over 12.9 metres (Figure 8). The mineralized horizon is coincident with a 700 metre-long induced polarization chargeability anomaly with the strongest chargeability segments hidden under the overburden cover. Chargeability axes are commonly caused by sulphide occurrences including chalcopyrite, pyrrhotite and pyrite which are present at Mista.

Sampling Protocols and Quality Control

Each rock sample was placed in a plastic bag with its own identification tag directly on the field. These samples were then placed in large bags and sent to ALS (Val-dOr, Quebec) to be analyzed for lithium and a suite of other chemical elements. These samples were prepared with the PREP-31A method and analyzed by ICP-MS (ME-MS89L) following a sodium peroxide fusion (FUS-PER02p). One sample, exceeding the detection limit in lithium (2.5% Li), was reanalyzed by ICP-AES finish (ME-ICP82b) following a sodium peroxide fusion (FUS-PER02). Sample preparation and analytical determination were performed in various ALS laboratories. No standards or blanks were inserted due to the early nature of the exploration program. The sampling procedures and the quality control followed protocols developed by Harfang and ALS.

Qualified Person

The technical information in this news release was prepared and approved by Francois Huot, professional geologist and Vice President Exploration of Harfang, who is a non-independent qualified person for the technical disclosure as defined by the National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI43-101).

About Harfang Exploration Inc.

Harfang Exploration Inc. is well financed with approximately $5.7 M in the treasury as of December 5, 2023 and is a technically driven mineral exploration company with the primary mission to discover ore deposits in Quebec and Ontario. The Company is managed by an experienced team of industry professionals with a proven track record of success, controls a portfolio of highly prospective projects and has a strong financial position. Harfang is dedicated to best practices through engagement with all stakeholders and commitment to the environment.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and for further information, please contact:

Ian Campbell

President and Chief Executive Officer

Tel: 647 680-3820

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Web: www.harfangexploration.com

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

The information in this news release includes certain information and statements about managements view of future events, expectations, plans and prospects that constitute forward-looking statements. These statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward-looking statements. Any number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements as well as future results. Although Harfang believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, Harfang disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking statements or otherwise.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - BASIN URANIUM CORP. (CSE: NCLR) ("Basin Uranium" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has acquired the South Pass Property Uranium Project (the "Project" or "South Pass") located in Fremont and Sublette County, Wyoming, USA. The Project, which was acquired through direct staking by the Company, is comprised of 151 unpatented mineral lode claims totaling 3,775 acres located along the perimeter of the Great Divide Basin of Wyoming (see Figure 1). Wyoming is home to both the largest uranium reserves and top producing state in US1, with the Great Divide Basin representing the least exploited of Wyoming's basins estimated to contain over 270 million pounds of uranium2.

"The staking of the South Pass property represents our continued expansion into the USA, focused on acquiring strategic assets located in in prolific mining districts with extensive historical exploration," commented Mike Blady, CEO of Basin Uranium. "Preliminary review of historical exploration records for South Pass dating back to the 1960's indicates the potential to host ISR-amendable uranium mineralization. Wyoming represents one of the premiere exploration and mining jurisdictions for uranium within the USA which provides for a clearly defined and expedient pathway for permitting and development."

Figure 1: South Pass Project Map

South Pass Project, Wyoming

The South Pass Uranium Project is comprised of 3,775 acres of contiguous claims (151 unpatented mineral lode claims) located 45 miles southwest of Lander, Wyoming. Access to the property is facilitated through State Highway 28, located within 5 miles to the southeast, with year-round gravel and ATV roads servicing the claims. Exploration dates back to the 1960's and 1970's with several large companies having drilled numerous wells along a 12-mile-long trend that bisects the long axis of the property. Specifically, close-spaced drilling by Rocky Mountain Energy Corp. (a subsidiary of Union Pacific Railway) in the 1980's reported uranium mineralization at depths of over 400 feet - depths which would be potentially amenable to in-situ recovery (ISR) methods. Evaluation of historical records also indicated a historic resource was calculated on at least two parts of the claims currently comprising the South Pass project, however additional verification and validation must be performed by the Company's Qualified Person before being disclosed publicly.

The reader is cautioned that at this time it is too early to assess the feasibility of these recovery methods at South Pass however mineralization at this depth typically lies within the parameters of ISR mining and recovery.

Qualified Person

R. Tim Henneberry, PGeo (B.C.), a technical advisor to the Company, is the Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 who has reviewed and approved the technical data in this news release.

About Basin Uranium Corp.

Basin Uranium is a Canadian junior exploration company focused on mineral exploration and development in the green energy sector. The Company has three advanced-stage uranium projects located in the United States, namely the Chord project in South Dakota, the South Pass project in Wyoming, and the Wray Mesa project in Utah. All three projects have seen extensive historical exploration and are located in prospective development areas. The Company also has the Mann Lake uranium project, located in the world-class Athabasca basin of Northern Saskatchewan, Canada, in addition to the CHG gold project in south-central British Columbia.

For further information, please contact Mr. Mike Blady or view the Company's filings at www.sedarplus.ca.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Mike Blady

Chief Executive Officer

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

604-722-9842

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its regulation services provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This news release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, including statements regarding future estimates, plans, objectives, timing, assumptions or expectations of future performance are forward-looking statements and contain forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". Forward-looking statements are based on certain material assumptions and analysis made by the Company and the opinions and estimates of management as of the date of this news release. These forward-looking statements are 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 statements or forward-looking information. Important factors that may cause actual results to vary include, without limitation, uncertainties affecting the expected use of proceeds. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

1Domestic Uranium Production Report - Q2/2023, US Energy Information Administration https://www.eia.gov/uranium/production/quarterly/qupdtable1.php

2Applied Exploration Geology and Uranium Resources of Great Divide Basin, Wyoming https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/aapgbull/article-abstract/63/5/822/558172/Applied-Exploration-Geology-and-Uranium-Resources
Hole MC23-132 Intersects 363.0 g/t (10.59 opt) Au over 0.3m Within a Broader Interval of 121.8 g/t (3.55 opt) Au over 0.9m

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - Onyx Gold Corp. (TSXV: ONYX) (OTCQX: ONXGF) ("Onyx" or the "Company") is pleased to announce initial exploration results from its 2023 Fall drill program in the Timmins gold camp, Ontario. The first assay results have been returned for drill hole MC23-132, which tested a prospective area 350m (1,148 feet) northwest of the former Croesus Gold Mine. The Croesus Gold Mine is famous for yielding some of the highest-grade gold mined in Ontario.

The completed program included ~4,000 meters ("m") of diamond drilling with one drill rig and focused on targets proximal to the historic high-grade Croesus Gold Mine, and on the new bulk-tonnage-style Argus Zone discovered in 2022.

Highlight Assay Results for Drill Hole MC23-132 include:

121.8 grams per tonne ("g/t") (3.55 ounces per ton "opt") gold ("Au") over 0.9m (true width), including 363.0 g/t (10.59 opt) Au over 0.3m (true width)



The drill hole intersected a 30-centimeter-wide quartz vein containing abundant visible gold that returned 363 g/t (10.59 opt) Au over 0.3m, representing the single highest assay in the Company's drill hole database for the project. The high-grade vein occurs within a broader zone of mineralization averaging 121.8 g/t (3.55 opt) Au over 0.9m and was intersected approximately 60 m vertically below surface. This new vein discovery represents an entirely new high-grade quartz vein in a geological setting comparable to the mined-out, bonanza-grade Croesus vein.

"The intersection of multi-ounce gold grades within a completely new vein system parallel to the renowned Croesus Vein is a direct validation of the team's recent advancements in geological and structural modeling in the area," said Brock Colterjohn, President & CEO. "The historic Croesus Gold Mine produced some of the highest-grade gold ever mined in Ontario, with an average head grade of 95.3 g/t (2.78 opt) gold. This new vein underscores the opportunity for additional discoveries within an established high-grade gold environment. It is an excellent start to Onyx Gold's inaugural drill program in Ontario."

"The Timmins camp is one of the most prolific gold-producing regions in the world with multiple operating mines and excess milling capacity. Onyx Gold has established one of the largest land positions in the camp not owned by a producer. Much of this land package is in prime high-potential geology with little or no work completed for decades. Our land tenure represents particularly attractive opportunities for discoveries such as this. This new vein remains open in all directions, and we look forward to further expanding this high-grade discovery in a winter drill campaign. We are also looking forward to results from the rest of our fall program which will be reported in due course."

Discussion of Results

A total of five (5) holes (MC23-130 to MC23-134) totaling 872m were completed by the Company in late October/early November to follow-up north and south of drillhole MC22-92 drilled by the previous operator, HighGold Mining Inc., which intersected a narrow quartz vein that returned 14.0 g/t Au over 0.6 meters in a broader interval grading 3.4 g/t Au over 2.6m (See HighGold Mining Inc. press release from March 30, 2022). The area was targeted for its similar geological setting to the Croesus Gold Mine - specifically, the occurrence of a parallel vein to the Croesus Vein within a particular basalt flow unit that is locally brecciated and enriched in sulfides (the "Croesus Flow"). The Croesus Flow is interpreted to play an important role in the deposition of exceptionally high concentrations of gold within the Croesus Vein.

Results have been returned from hole MC23-132, a 25-meter step-out south of MC23-92, which intersected what is believed to be a new vein in a parallel orientation to the Croesus Vein within the upper portion of the Croesus Flow. The quartz vein was intersected from 83.0-83.3 meters downhole within sulfidic pillowed Croesus Flow and returned the highest-grade interval on the property to date of 363.0 g/t Au over 0.3m (true width) within a broader structural zone averaging 121.8 g/t Au over 0.9m (true width). The quartz vein is characterized by massive, white-grey quartz with abundant fine-grained aggregates of visible gold throughout and in and along the margins of pyrite grains. The quartz contains coarse, disseminated, and fracture-filling pyrite and trace, fine-grained sphalerite, and arsenopyrite as shown in Plate 1. The 363.0 g/t Au assay was obtained by gold gravimetric analysis (Au-GRA22) at the ALS Canada lab in North Vancouver. A gold screen analysis (Au-SCR21) was also performed and returned a total gold value of 342.0 g/t Au.

Between 1915 and 1936, the Croesus Mine, produced 14,854 ounces of gold mined from 5,333 tons with an average grade of 2.78 opt Au (95.3 g/t Au) as reported by the Ontario Department of Mines in 1951. Note - this production number did not include the ore that was mined and shipped in packing crates directly to the Royal Canadian Mint. Five (5) gold samples purchased by the Ontario Bureau of Mines for exhibition purposes and now in possession of the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, Ontario weigh 85 pounds collectively and contain 480.7 ounces of gold or 11,310 oz gold per ton (387,727 g/tonne). The Croesus Vein and the new vein are parallel northeast-striking, east-southeast-dipping shear veins that contain abundant visible gold where they intersect the permissive host lithology (Croesus Flow). This highlights the opportunity to discover additional parallel high-grade veins within the Croesus Flow.

Drill hole locations for the holes reported herein are shown in Figures 2 and 3. Assay results for the other four holes to test the target area are currently pending.

The Munro-Croesus Project

The Munro-Croesus Project is located along Highway 101 in the heart of the Abitibi greenstone belt, Canada's premier gold mining jurisdiction (Figure 1). This large, 100% owned land package includes the past-producing Croesus Gold Mine, which yielded some of the highest-grade gold ever mined in Ontario. Extensive land consolidation from 2020-2023 has unified the patchwork of patented and unpatented mining claims surrounding the Croesus Gold Mine into one coherent package (Figure 1) and enhanced the exploration potential of the Project.

The Project covers 70 km2 (27 mi2) of highly prospective geology within the influence of major gold-bearing structural breaks. Bulk-tonnage gold deposits located in the immediate region include the Fenn-Gib gold project being developed by Mayfair Gold Corp. that contains an Indicated Resource of 3.38 Moz at 0.93 g/t Au and an Inferred Resource of 157 koz at 0.85 g/t Au, and the Tower Gold Project being developed by Moneta Gold Inc. that contains an open pit Indicated Resource of 4.46 Moz at 0.92 g/t Au and an Inferred Resource of 8.29 Moz at 1.09 g/t Au1.

Figure 1 - Location of Munro-Croesus Gold Project, Ontario

Figure 2 - Plan Map of Croesus Mine Area Drill Holes

Figure 3 - Cross-section of New Vein Discovery in Drill Hole MC23-132

Plate 1 - Photo of Abundant Visible Gold in Drill Hole MC23-132

Q4-2023 Ontario Drill Program

The Company successfully completed its planned fall drill program on December 2nd with 4,078 meters drilled in 19 holes. Approximately half of the drilling budget was focused on expansion drilling at the Argus Zone located on the western side of the Property, with the remaining half of the drilling budget focused on follow-up holes at targets proximal to the historic high-grade Croesus Gold Mine. Assay results from the fall program are currently pending and will be released in due course.

About the Timmins Area Gold Properties

Onyx owns 100% of each of its three Timmins properties. The Munro-Croesus Gold Project is located approximately 75 kilometers (47 miles) east of Timmins, proximal to the Porcupine-Destor and Pipestone Faults, and approximately two kilometers (1.2 miles) northwest and along trend of Mayfair Gold Corp.'s multi-million ounce Fenn-Gib gold deposit. Mining occurred intermittently at Munro-Croesus between 1915 and 1936. The Golden Mile 140 square kilometer (54 square miles) property is located nine kilometers (5.6 miles) northeast of Newmont's multi-million-ounce Hoyle Pond deposit in Timmins. The Timmins South (Golden Perimeter) 187 square kilometers (72 square miles) property is located to the south and southeast of Timmins and surrounds the Shaw dome structure.

About Onyx Gold

Onyx Gold is an exploration company focused on well-established Canadian mining jurisdictions, with assets in Timmins, Ontario, and Yukon Territory. The Company's extensive portfolio of quality gold projects in the greater Timmins gold camp includes the Munro-Croesus Gold property, renowned for its high-grade mineralization, plus two additional earlier-stage large exploration properties, Golden Mile and Timmins South. Onyx Gold also controls four properties in the Selwyn Basin area of Yukon Territory, which is currently gaining significance due to recent discoveries in the area. Onyx Gold's experienced board and senior management team are committed to creating shareholder value through the discovery process, careful allocation of capital, and environmentally/socially responsible mineral exploration.

Qualified Person and Quality Assurance

Ian Cunningham-Dunlop, P.Eng., Executive Vice President for Onyx Gold 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.

On Behalf of Onyx Gold Corp.

"Brock Colterjohn"

President & CEO

For further information, please visit the Onyx Gold Corp. website at www.onyxgold.com or contact:

Brock Colterjohn, President & CEO

or

Nicole Hoeller, VP of Corporate Communications

Phone: 1-604-629-1165 or North American toll-free 1-855-629-1165

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Website: www.onyxgold.com

Twitter : @OnyxGoldCorp

1. Fenn-Gib Gold Project and Tower Gold Project mineral resources compiled from public sources and are provided for general information purposes. Readers are cautioned that the Company has no interest in or right to acquire any interest in adjacent properties and they are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties or any potential exploration thereof.

Additional Notes

Starting azimuth, dip and final length (Azimuth/-Dip/Length) for the drillholes reported today are noted as follows: MC23-132 (300/45/126).

Samples of drill core were cut by a diamond blade rock saw, with half of the cut core placed in individual sealed polyurethane bags and half placed back in the original core box for permanent storage. Sample lengths typically vary from a minimum 0.2-meter interval to a maximum 1.5-meter interval, with an average 0.5 to 1.0-meter sample length. Drill core samples were delivered by truck in sealed woven plastic bags to ALS Geochemistry laboratory facility in Timmins, Ontario for sample preparation with final analysis at ALS Geochemistry Analytical Lab facility in North Vancouver, BC. ALS Geochemistry operate meeting all requirements of International Standards ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015.

Gold is determined by fire-assay fusion of a 50-gram sub-sample with atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Samples that return values >10 ppm gold from fire assay and AAS are determined by using fire assay and a gravimetric finish. Various metals including silver, gold, copper, lead and zinc are analyzed by inductively-coupled plasma (ICP) atomic emission spectroscopy, following multi-acid digestion. The elements copper, lead and zinc are determined by ore grade assay for samples that return values >10,000 ppm by ICP analysis. Silver is determined by ore-grade assay for samples that return >100 ppm. All ALS Geochemistry sites operate under a single Global Geochemistry Quality Manual that complies with ISO/IEC 17025:2017. ALS Geochemistry follows the quality management and operational guidelines set out in the international standards ISO/IEC 17025 - "General Requirement for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories" and ISO 9001 - "Quality Management Systems".

The Company maintains a robust QA/QC program that includes the collection and analysis of duplicate samples and the insertion of blanks and standards (certified reference material).

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

This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (collectively "forward looking statements").

Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections, and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "forecast", "expect", "potential", "project", "target", "schedule", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company's planned exploration programs and drill programs and potential significance of results including the new high-grade vein structure at the Munro Croesus property described above, are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Company's expectations include actual exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital, and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials, and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same, and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause such actions, events, or results to differ materially from those anticipated. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and accordingly readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
December 6th, 2023  TheNewswire - Vancouver, Canada  Teuton Resources Corp. (Teuton or the Company) (TSXV:TUO) (Frankfurt:TFE) is pleased to announce the results of reconnaissance geochemical sampling conducted on its 100% owned Big Gold Property, part of the Companys Luxor Project" (Figure 1- http://teuton.com/LuxorProjectMap). The Big Gold property is located in the heart of British Columbias famed Golden Triangle, between the past producing Granduc mine 7 kilometres (km) to the south, and the recently discovered copper-rich, massive sulfide Copernicus showing on Goldstorm Metals Orion property 5 km to the north. Highlights of the 2023 Big Gold exploration program include:

Discovery of the Roman Zone massive sulfide occurrence over a strike length of at least 25 metres (). Ten surface grab samples* have results grading up to 57.1 grams per tonne (g/t) silver (Ag), 12.10% lead (Pb), 9.32% zinc (Zn) and 0.72% copper (Cu) (Tables 1, 2, Figure 2)

Table 1. Summary of Results* from Roman Zone (n=10)

Ag (g/t) Cu (%) Pb (%) Zn (%) Maximum 57.1 0.72 12.10 9.32 Minimum 3.3 0.02 0.02 0.38 Average 23.8 0.17 4.24 3.73 Median 17.6 0.13 3.91 3.23

Discovery of the Zall massive sulfide occurrence 50 m to the NE of the Roman Zone with two grab samples* grading up to 4.2% Zn, 0.14% Cu and 13.2 g/t Ag (Table 3).

Discovery of an approximately 15-20 centimeter (cm) thick high-grade quartz-sulfide vein that was tested with a single grab sample* that graded 27.7 g/t gold (Au), 6,240 g/t Ag, 1.5% Cu, 6.4% Pb and 3.1% Zn (Table 4)

Identification of a unit of black mudstones with 1-5 cm thick stratiform pyrite layers over an approximately 320 x 150 m area defining a zone of elevated Au, Ag, Zn, as well as epithermal tracer elements arsenic (As) and mercury (Hg) (average values of 16 samples*: 0.1 g/t Au, 3.8 g/t Ag, 409 ppm Zn, 55 parts per million (ppm) As and 2.8 ppm Hg; Table 5).

* Grab samples are selective in nature, therefore reported mineralization and assay results may not be representative.

Dino Cremonese, P. Eng., President of Teuton commented: We are encouraged by these early- exploration stage results from Teutons Big Gold Property. The identification of multiple zones of massive sulfide as well as a high-grade quartz-sulfide vein on this underexplored property demonstrates its promise. The style of the newly discovered mineralization suggests a volcanogenic-massive-sulfide affinity making the property prospective for world class deposits like Eskay Creek, Granduc, and Anyox, which are also located in British Columbias Golden Triangle.

The Big Gold Property and Luxor Project

The Big Gold Property comprises six claims totalling 2,835 hectares (ha) within a larger block of eight properties (the Luxor Project) totalling 21,540 ha (Figure 1). All properties within the Luxor Project are 100% owned by Teuton. The 2023 exploration work program on Big Gold included geological mapping, collection of 59 grab samples* for assay and collection of 120 samples for hyperspectral analysis to aid with alteration mapping and exploration vectoring.

The property is underlain by alternating sequences of black mudstones and mafic volcanic flows and tuffs. BC government geology maps show that it is underlain by Iskut River Formation rift related rocks that are prospective for volcanogenic-massive-sulfide (VMS) style mineralization, and which host the Eskay Creek and Anyox VMS deposits.

The Roman Zone Massive Sulfide Occurrence

Discovered in a zone of glacial meltback (ablation) beside a retreating valley glacier (Figure 2 - http://teuton.com/RomanZone) in the final days of the 2023 exploration campaign, the Roman Zone is exposed over approximately 25 m strike length and comprises massive and semi-massive sulfide located in bedding parallel lenses and remobilized into cross-cutting quartz-veins and local shear zones. Sulfide lenses range in thickness between just a few centimetres and 50 cm and are semi-continuous across the 25 m strike length. The massive sulfide consists of fine-grained sphalerite, galena, pyrite and chalcopyrite (Figure 2), sometimes mixed with variable amounts of quartz. The Roman Zone pinches out to the NE and abuts the lateral edge of a 500 m wide valley glacier to the SW, disappearing under the ice (Figure 2). Although no massive sulfide was identified on the opposite side of the glacier, rocks collected along a parallel but offset trend in that area are elevated in silver.

Table 2. Grab Sample* Results from the Roman Zone

Sample ID Ag (g/t) Cu (%) Pb (%) Zn (%) H226747 16.2 0.05 3.50 2.69 H226748 46.8 0.72 6.55 5.76 H226749 10.5 0.12 1.94 1.71 H226851 57.1 0.17 12.10 9.32 H226750 19.0 0.24 4.32 3.77 H226853 12.3 0.13 2.29 2.02 H226854 43.3 0.04 5.39 0.59 H226855 3.3 0.02 0.25 0.38 H226852 23.0 0.06 6.04 5.15 H226751 6.7 0.15 0.02 5.94

Dino Cremonese, P. Eng., President of Teuton commented further: The Roman Zone was discovered in an area that until the summer of 2023 was covered by glacial ice and the mineralization appears to extend further beneath the remaining ice. This is just one of many examples of how glacial and snowpack melting is rapidly changing the landscape of exploration across the Luxor Project. We anticipate that there will be a broader area of exposure at the Roman Zone in 2024, which will aid in determining the most efficient way to test this excellent target with drilling. We also anticipitate a significant boots on the ground style exploration campaign on the Luxor Project in 2024 focusing on areas of glacial abatement.

Zall Massive Sulfide Occurrence

The Zall massive sulfide occurrence is located 50 m NE of the Roman Zone. It comprises an approximately 1.5  2.0 m thick bed of silicified black mudstone with up to 50 cm thick domains of massive pyrite and sphalerite. Two grab samples* (Table 3) were collected from the Zall occurrence, one from the massive sulfide, which grades 4.2% Zn, 0.14% Cu and 13.2 g/t Ag and a second from the strongly silicified mudstone surrounding the massive sulfide, with no visible sulfides, which graded 1.5% Zn, and 2.6 g/t Ag, (Table 3) indicating the presence of very fine-grained sphalerite disseminated in the mudstone.

Table3. Zall Occurrence Grab Samples*

Sample ID Description Ag (g/t) Cu (ppm) Zn (%) H226860 Silicified Mudstone 2.59 353 1.53 H226848 Massive Sulfide 13.15 1370 4.19

The 6 Kilo Vein Occurrence

The 6 Kilo vein, named after the veins approximate silver value in kilograms/tonne (Table 4), comprises a single quartz-sulfide vein containing coarse sphalerite, galena and chalcopyrite in quartz. The vein is part of a set of abundant concordant to semi-concordant quartz veins observed across the property; it varies between 5 and 20 cm thickness; its lateral extent was not mapped out during the 2023 program. The vein has high-grade precious and base metals (Table 4). The stratiform nature of the property-wide vein set is suggestive of a bedding-parallel replacement, mineralization, and alteration system such as is commonly observed in VMS environments.

Table .4. 6 Kilo Vein  Discovery Assay*

Sample ID Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (%) Pb (%) Zn (%) H226710 27.7 6,240 1.455 6.4 3.11

Big Gold North  Epithermal Signature

In the northern portion of the Big Gold property 16 grab samples* of black mudstone with abundant pyrite rich beds up to 5 cm thick were collected over an approximately 320 x 150 m area (Table 5). Most samples tested silicified domains or areas with significant quartz veining. Although pyrite was the only sulfide observed, assays* grade up to 0.23 g/t Au, 12.1 g/t Ag and 0.43% Zn. Arsenic and mercury epithermal tracer elements are also elevated in these rocks with concentrations up to 207 ppm As and 14.3 ppm Hg (Table 5).

VMS Prospectivity Across the Luxor Project

Teutons 2023 exploration campaign also included prospecting on the 4Js Property, located approximately 3 km east of the Big Gold Property (Figure 1). The 4Js Property is underlain by sedimentary and volcanic rocks like those on the Big Gold Property, and it is host to a similar style of VMS mineralization. Prospecting in 2023 focused along the lateral edge of a rapidly retreating glacier where up to 1 m thick domains of stratiform and cross-cutting pyrite-rich massive sulfide were observed and sampled. Results from this sampling will be released once they are validated and interpreted by Teutons Qualified Person.

The Eskay Rift Property (Figure 1), which is situated between and south of the Big Gold and 4Js properties, comprises a thick sequence of black mudstones intruded by mafic sills. The black mudstones contain abundant pyrite laminations and beds that could be interpreted to be part of a VMS system. The property is underlain by a large (>1 km long) and intense (<100 ohm-m) resistivity anomaly that was detected as part of a ZTEM survey conducted in 2018.

Table 5. Full Table of Results from 2023 Rock Sampling* - Big Gold (NAD83 Zone 9)

Sample ID Easting Northing Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (%) Pb (%) Zn (%) As (ppm) Hg (ppm) Roman Zone H226747 421249 6239976 0.013 16.2 0.05 3.50 2.69 76.9 0.74 H226748 421252 6239977 0.051 46.8 0.72 6.55 5.76 1680 1.39 H226749 421256 6239976 0.035 10.45 0.12 1.94 1.71 141.5 0.33 H226851 421252 6239982 0.037 57.1 0.17 12.10 9.32 109 1.51 H226750 421251 6239981 0.009 18.95 0.24 4.32 3.77 39.7 0.57 H226853 421251 6239981 0.005 12.3 0.13 2.29 2.02 33.3 0.28 H226854 421251 6239988 0.018 43.3 0.04 5.39 0.59 46.5 0.83 H226855 421247 6239992 0.049 3.3 0.02 0.25 0.38 22.4 0.06 H226852 421250 6239980 0.026 23 0.06 6.04 5.15 130 0.83 H226751 421254 6240000 0.032 6.7 0.15 0.02 5.94 294 0.7 Zall Occurrence H226860 421295 6240026 0.013 2.59 0.04 0.01 1.53 68.3 0.23 H226848 421291 6240032 0.072 13.15 0.14 0.02 4.19 387 0.85 "Six Kilo" Vein H226710 421526 6240596 27.7 6240 1.46 6.40 3.11 1050 4.35 Big Gold Centre H226743 421405 6240240 0 0.1 0.00 0.00 0.00 4.3 0 H226744 421333 6240026 0.015 1.41 0.03 0.01 0.29 18.6 0.65 H226745 421329 6239986 0.001 0.65 0.02 0.00 0.01 2.8 0.01 H226746 421241 6240021 0.004 5.66 0.03 0.07 0.24 10.6 0.04 H226847 421344 6240211 0.01 3.84 0.00 0.12 0.00 0.4 0.01 H226849 421223 6240023 0 0.12 0.01 0.00 0.01 12.1 0 H226850 421251 6240010 0.001 0.66 0.02 0.00 0.02 22.1 0 H226856 421269 6240025 0.014 3.33 0.11 0.02 0.20 186.5 0.02 H226857 421316 6239971 0.001 0.3 0.01 0.00 0.01 4 0 H226858 421256 6239947 0.001 0.1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.2 0 H226859 421252 6239943 0.003 1.58 0.11 0.00 0.01 3.7 0 H226861 421258 6240022 0.018 5.56 0.18 0.08 0.08 81.4 0.01 H226863 421294 6240059 0.001 0.2 0.01 0.00 0.03 14.4 0.01 Big Gold North H226704 421368 6240925 0.222 1.02 0.01 0.00 0.00 16.9 0.15 H226705 421372 6240967 0.18 3.22 0.02 0.04 0.07 71.5 0.04 H226706 421396 6240827 0.092 1.78 0.03 0.00 0.00 14 7 H226707 421401 6240825 0.248 7.72 0.01 0.00 0.00 58.6 14.3 H226708 421379 6240863 0.081 4.42 0.00 0.00 0.01 207 8.31 H226709 421441 6240771 0.103 2.72 0.00 0.00 0.00 58.6 11.4 H226711 421371 6240986 0.035 7.77 0.01 0.01 0.01 9.3 0.06 H226794 421375 6240890 0.067 6.99 0.01 0.00 0.43 75.4 2.07 H226797 421375 6240890 0.088 12.05 0.01 0.00 0.00 118.5 0.24 H226800 421375 6240890 0.046 7.5 0.01 0.00 0.03 90 0.34 H226806 421376 6240859 0.332 1.47 0.01 0.00 0.05 77.2 1.35 H226810 421328 6240840 0.047 1.2 0.10 0.00 0.01 12.8 0.01 H226811 421328 6240841 0.011 0.17 0.00 0.00 0.01 23.9 0.01 H226812 421523 6241070 0.002 1.19 0.01 0.00 0.01 8.3 0.01 H226814 421437 6240993 0.001 0.55 0.01 0.00 0.00 8.6 0.01 H226813 421433 6240536 0.001 0.97 0.01 0.00 0.01 29.8 0.01 Big Gold South H226733 420919 6239424 0 0.29 0.02 0.00 0.01 7 0 H226734 420827 6239360 0.005 0.28 0.00 0.00 0.00 92.8 0.52 H226735 420761 6239375 0.006 0.48 0.00 0.00 0.01 63.9 0.3 H226736 420716 6239378 0.007 2.12 0.06 0.01 0.01 76.2 0 H226737 420713 6239464 0.002 2.33 0.01 0.00 0.02 12.2 0.01 H226738 420773 6239472 0.002 0.67 0.01 0.00 0.00 9.8 0.01 H226739 420796 6239580 0.105 9.42 0.05 0.02 0.01 658 0.01 H226740 420812 6239641 0 0.63 0.04 0.00 0.00 6.4 0 H226741 420854 6239589 0.029 3.52 0.02 0.00 0.01 73.1 0.02 H226742 420548 6239700 0.001 0.5 0.05 0.06 0.16 6.4 0.04 H226830 420809 6239540 0.01 2.21 0.02 0.00 0.01 71.7 0 H226831 420598 6239625 0 0.09 0.00 0.00 0.01 2.2 0.01 H226832 420819 6239636 0.012 2.1 0.01 0.00 0.00 64.3 0.03 H226833 420654 6239620 0.001 0.14 0.00 0.00 0.00 10.2 0 H226834 420860 6239499 0 0.14 0.01 0.00 0.01 5.3 0.01 H226842 420943 6239431 0.001 0.46 0.01 0.09 0.03 10.4 0.04 H226843 422229 6238908 0.001 0.1 0.00 0.00 0.01 1.9 0

* Grab samples are selective in nature, therefore reported mineralization and assay results may not be representative.

Qualified Person

The Qualified Person for this news release for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 is Tony Barresi, Ph.D., P.Geo., a consultant for Teuton Resources, and principal of Barresi Geoscience. He has read and approved the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for the disclosure contained in this news release.

QA/QC

All samples were crushed and pulverized at the ALS preparation laboratory in Terrace, BC using ALS technique PREP31. The pulps were shipped by ALS to their geochemical laboratory in North Vancouver where Au was tested on 30 g nominal samples by fire assay with an AES finish (ALS method Au-ICP21). An additional 52 elements were tested on 0.5 g splits using 3:1 Aqua Regia digestion and trace level ICP-AES analysis (ALS method ME-MS41). Samples with overlimit Ag, Cu, Zn or Pb were reanalysed using ore-grade Aqua Regia digestion and ICP-ES analysis (ALS method OG46). In samples where Ag was >1,500 g/t, a further overlimit test was preformed using a gravimetric finish (ALS method Ag-GRA-21). Quality control procedures at the lab consisted of testing certified reference material (CRMs), blank material and duplicates with each batch (at least 1:20). A review of results from the laboratory-run quality control program indicate that the quality of the data produced was within the laboratory specifications and of sufficient quality to be reliable and useful for the current study. ALS Labs is an ISO9001 accredited analytical laboratory and is independent of the Company.

About Teuton

Teuton owns interests in more than thirty properties in the prolific Golden Triangle area of northwest British Columbia and was one of the first companies to adopt what has since become known as the prospect generator model. This model minimizes share equity dilution while at the same time maximizing opportunity. Earnings provided from option payments received, both in cash and in shares of the optionee companies over the past 6 years, has provided Teuton with substantial income.

Figures:

Fig. 1 - Luxor Project Location Map http://teuton.com/LuxorProjectMap

Fig. 2 - Roman Zone Massive Sulfide Occurrence http://teuton.com/RomanZone

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of Teuton Resources:

"Dino Cremonese, P.Eng."

Dino Cremonese, P. Eng.,

President and Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please visit the Company's website at www.teuton.com or contact:

Barry Holmes

Director Corporate Development and Communications

Tel. 778-430-5680

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statements regarding Forward-Looking information

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially.

All statements relating to future plans, objectives or expectations of the Company are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's plans or expectations include risks relating to the actual results of current exploration activities, fluctuating gold prices, possibility of equipment breakdowns and delays, exploration cost overruns, availability of capital and financing, general economic, market or business conditions, regulatory changes, timeliness of government or regulatory approvals and other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation.




VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 7, 2021 / Pampa Metals Corp. (CSE:PM) (FSE:FIRA) (OTC PINK:PMMCF) ("Pampa Metals" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has qualified for trading on the OTCQB  ("OTCQB"), operated by OTC Markets Group, under its existing ticker symbol "PMMCF". The Company is... Read More
After setting the rules, Lee Se Young and Bae In Hyuk nearly cross the line due to sweet moments. Meanwhile, Jin Kyung begins to plan her schemes to take over the company. Read on to know more about what went down in "The Story of Park's Marriage Contract" episode 4.

Kang Tae Ha's Crush Grows

After sharing a kiss, Kang Tae Ha's (Bae In Hyuk) heart rate increases rapidly again. He can't stop thinking about his kiss with Park Yeon Woo (Lee Se Young), making him lose sleep.

However, he has a lot of more important things to worry about as his stepmother figures out that Park Yeon Woo is a fake bride. Min Hye Suk (Jin Kyung) decides that she'll take out Park Yeon Woo to keep her plans organized.

Park Yeon Woo Steps Into Danger

Episode 4 glimpses into Kang Tae Ha's painful past, hinting that he's been abused before. Because of this, he refocuses his attention to remove unnecessary thoughts off his mind.

His company collaborates with an artist that curated a hanbok fashion company to showcase South Korea's history, culture and heritage.

Meanwhile, Park Yeon Woo trains to become more well-adjusted as Kang Tae Ha's bride, and as a civilian in the modern world. Elsewhere, Min Hye Suk begins her schemes to take down her stepson, and take over the company.

Park Yeon Woo Reunites With Sa Wol

Kang Tae Ha's grandfather's birthday arrives, gathering all of the Kangs in one place which means danger for Park Yeon Woo.

Min Hye Suk corners Park Yeon Woo, revealing that she had her background checked. She shares that her stepson's bride is an orphan.

READ MORE: Lee Se Young, Bae In Hyuk Share Kiss In New Drama: 'We took off our...'

She then offers to help find her family and even her adoption papers, concealing her real intention. Park Yeon Woo's handmaiden miraculously ends up in the modern world, reuniting the two best friends.

Sa Wol (Joo Hyun Young) pretends to be a help in the Kang's mansion to find her. The two share a big hug, making Park Yeon Woo happy that she isn't alone anymore.

Will Park Yeon Woo Return To Joseon?

Min Hye Suk tries to sabotage her marriage with Kang Tae Ha, bringing a young lady to introduce to her stepson.

Thankfully, Kang Tae Min (Yoo Seon Ho) saves the day, introducing the girl as his lover. Unbeknownst to her, he uses it to leverage over his brother to disrupt his business.

Later, a strange shaman with weird eyes appears in front of the Kang's mansion. She is then lured into the woods while Kang Tae Ha follows suit.

She steps past a grave marked "faithful wife," freezing time again. Kang Tae Ha quickly arrives, and they both end up in each other's arms.

ALSO READ: Lee Se Young Couples With Sakaguchi Kentaro In New Romance Drama - More Details Inside!

KDramaStars owns this article.

Written by Elijah Mully.
The Canada Energy Regulator has denied a request by Trans Mountain Corp. for a variance on a section of pipeline in B.C. Workers lay pipe during construction of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion on farmland, in Abbotsford, B.C., Wednesday, May 3, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
FILE - Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford answers a question during an interview at the State Attorneys General Association meetings, Nov. 16, 2023, in Boston. On Wednesday, Dec. 6, a Nevada grand jury indicted six Republicans who submitted certificates to Congress falsely declaring Donald Trump the winner of the 2020 presidential election in their state, making Nevada the third to seek charges against so-called fake electors. Ford said in a statement Wednesday that he would do everything in his power to defend the institutions of the nation and the state. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)
The British Columbia government says it's making progress on a $1 billion, multi-year plan to attract more health-care workers to the province. Health Minister Adrian Dix looks on during a press conference in Victoria, on Nov. 9. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chad Hipolito
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Representatives of a battered and stressed Canadian medical profession gathered in Montreal and virtually last week for the 7th annual Canadian Conference on Physician Health (CCPH)  the first such meeting in four years and the largest to date. One of the main pain points identified as facing individual physicians is the burden of administrative work, and this was the focus of a special cross-border plenary session featuring Canadian Medical Association (CMA) President Dr. Kathleen Ross and Dr. Marie Brown, director of practice redesign for the American Medical Association.

In introducing the conference, Dr. Ross said, Many of us are stretched so incredibly thin and have been targets of harassment and bullying at work and in training programs.

Later in the meeting, she released a statement referring specifically to the current conflict in the Middle East. The Hamas-Israel conflict is causing significant tensions for Jewish and Palestinian physicians, with many experiencing antisemitism, racism, Islamophobia, and other forms of aggression, the statement noted.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and its hugely negative impact on physicians was also referenced repeatedly. COVID is not over; it has a lingering presence. It has altered our ability to offer quality patient care  and we will never recover, said opening keynote speaker, Dr. Jane Lemaire, co-director of WellDoc Alberta.

What emerged very clearly this year was the recognition of how interlinked the well-being of physicians is with the health care system as a whole and the health of the patients they care for. We are caught in a vicious cycle of work overload, burnout, and attrition of the health workforce, which has critical population health and health system impacts, said Dr. Ivy Bourgeault, leader of the Canadian Health Workforce Network.

At one point in the meeting, an emergency physician from Montreal rose to ask why it was so hard to persuade people that good physician health translates into better patient outcomes.

Dr. Edward Spilg, an associate professor of medicine at the University of Ottawa, noted that a decade ago, individual resilience was identified as the way physicians could best deal with well-being issues. Now, he said, there is a recognition that system-level interventions are essential. Dr. Lemaire said a multi-pronged approach to culture change is required to improve physician well-being, and the health care system must support such a change.

Administrative burden is one system-wide issue that national medical organizations in both Canada and the US have made a priority to address. In Canada, Dr. Ross leads a special task force created by the CMA to deal with the issue, which is a priority in its current strategic plan.

In opening the plenary session on the topic, Dr. Ross applauded work done by the AMA to recognize and introduce initiatives to deal with the issue, especially with respect to electronic health records (EHRs).

It appears from the research  that almost 3-5 hours a day can be saved by removing unnecessary tasks, said Dr. Brown in her remarks, adding programs are needed to deal with these tasks. Eliminate, automate, or delegate. Both Drs. Brown and Ross talked about the frustration of dealing with EHR systems that are not interoperable. We need to demand complete interoperability so we can provide better care, said Dr. Brown.

Dr. Brown said artificial intelligence (AI) may hold potential for relieving administrative pressures on physicians but not if it is just layered onto a task that is not necessary in the first place.

For the CMA, the focus has been on dealing with the massive burden placed on physicians requiring to fill out forms, especially for employees requiring sick notes from employers. Dr. Ross applauded a recent commitment by the government in Nova Scotia to reduce this requirement.

While much of the focus of the meeting was on system-level approaches, some sessions also dealt with how individual doctors could deal with the stress of medical practice today. In a keynote address, Dr. Kristen Neff, a clinical psychologist at the University of Texas, Austin, advocated self-compassion consisting of kindness, mindfulness, and common humanity. In another session, Collingwood family physician Dr. Caroline Bowman, who has been diagnosed with MS, discussed shame resilience as a missing component of physician wellness.

A focus on improving the well-being of medical learners and the environment of academic medicine came from two sessions discussing the Okanagan Charter, an international framework to support well-being at academic centers. Deans of all 17 Canadian medical schools have committed to following the charter, said Dr. Melanie Lewis, chief wellness officer at the University of Alberta. But she added only 12 of the 17 schools (soon to be 13) have formally adopted the charter to date, and she is the only person currently holding the position of chief wellness officer at a medical school.

Pat Rich is a digital writer and can be reached on Days of Past Futures and on Twitter @pat_health.
By David Sekayinga & Al-Mahdi Ssenkabira

A carpet of heavy water hyacinth has in the past week blocked the shoreline at Kisovve landing site  Lujaabwa Village, Mazinga sub-county in Kalangala District, bringing fishing to halt.

The moving vegetation came with dangerous reptiles including snakes which have since forced residents close to the docking area and abandon their houses.

Currently, the bigger part of the shoreline where boats dock, measuring about 300 meters, is filthy with patches of devastating weed. Kisovve landing site is a key fishing ground for Nile Perch and Tilapia .

The weed came with snakes and others are still under the water hyacinth. We cant sleep in houses because we dont know what could happen to us during the night, Mr Yasin Kabugo, one of the fishermen at Kisovve landing site said on Tuesday.

Mr Umar Tamale, a youth sub-county representative at the Kalangala District said: We had hopes of having better catches this month after struggling for some months, but now with this [water hyacinth ] we dont know when it will go away. We really dont know where we shall get food because no boat can sail or dock at the landing site.

The rocky Lujaabwa Village hosts over 2,000 residents.

According to Ms Resty Nakawungu, the District Vice chairperson, the district lacks capacity to uproot the weed, but they are engaging the government to intervene.

 As a district, we can only afford anti-venom drugs and we have already asked the chief Accounting Officer to provide Shs10 millon so that we can purchase those drugs to help us in snakebite management, she said.

Kyamuswa County legislator, Mr Moses Kabuusu, said this is the right time for government to use weevils known as Cyrtobagous Salviniae to control the weed.

Parliament has been giving the government money to use their laboratories to develop that weevil [Cyrtobagous Salviniae ] which can eat the water hyacinth however we see it increasing on the lake, he said.

Mr Tom Bukenya, the acting commissioner of Fisheries Resources in the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry & Fisheries, said they are already using the weevils to get rid of water hyacinth on water bodies.

Like at Lambu landing site in Masaka and other landing sites in eastern Uganda, we are using the weevils to control water hyacinth. Due to the decline of water hyacinth, the weevils reduced in number and we are now focusing on increasing their population in the tanks we placed on all those landing sites,3 he said.

The challenge is that they[weevils ] take time to reduce the water hyacinth, but have a great impact in reducing its existence on the water, he added

The water hyacinth is a highly problematic invasive species and in the past two decades government has tried to combat the weed on different lakes and rivers under the UgandaEgypt Aquatic Weed Control Project, but the weed has remained resistant and continues to threaten the fishing communities.

According to the Kalangala District Hazard Risk and Vulnerability profile made in 2016 by the disaster management committee from the Office of the Prime Minister Office, the invasion of species including the water hyacinth and green algae are in the fifth position among the disasters being experienced in the district.
Parliament Committee on Budget yesterday threw out an extra Shs3.393 trillion that the government had allegedly smuggled to be jointly processed for approval with the Shs3.5 trillion supplementary budget.

The committee chaired by the Kachumbula County legislator, Mr Patrick Isiagi, had convened to scrutinise the Shs3.5 trillion supplementary budget that was on Thursday last week tabled before Parliament in a sitting chaired by Speaker Anita Among.

Lawmakers were displeased that whereas the State Minister for Finance in Charge of General Duties, Mr Henry Musasizi, had tabled a Shs3.5 trillion request, his submissions before the Budget Committee to, which Ms Among had referred the matter, contained an extra Shs3.393 trillion.

The MPs accused Mr Musasizi and the Director of budget at the Finance Ministry, Mr Ismael Magona, of presenting unclear figures.

The mischief was arrested by Mr Maxwell Ebong Patrick Akora (Maruzi County).

In his statement, Mr Musasizi said: Members, in line with the above section of the law, I laid before Parliament, supplementary expenditure under schedule Number 1 Financial Year 2023/2024 amounting to Shs3.500 trillion.

In addition, my ministry has issued statutory revisions amounting to Shs3.393 trillion,he added.

But Mr Akora interjected saying: To me, the minister is not being clear because according to Mr Magonas explanation,the total supplementary request that they are presenting to this committee is Shs3.5 trillion plus Shs3.393 trillion which amounts to about Shs7.2 trillion,Mr Akora said.

So why dont you be clear so that we understand this once and for all? Mr Akora wondered.

His sentiments were shared by Buliisa Woman MP Norah Bigirwa-Nyendwoha who was openly bitter that the government had attempted to hoodwink the committee into processing documents different from what was tabled before Parliament.

It does not make any sense for us as Members of Parliament, chairpersons of different committees who are aware that we came here for Shs3.5 trillion supplementary budget and then you come with different figures, Ms Bigirwa-Nyendwoha said.
By Anthony Wesaka

President Museveni has urged the magistrates and judges in the East African Community (EAC) to have harmonised administration of justice. He explained that the people are the same because they are separated by artificial colonial boundaries that were created by unpatriotic masters.

Our social values are justice needs. The needs remain the same. How to integrate economically and politically. We also need to harmonise our judicial system. The judiciaries in the East African partner states need to apply common standards, the best judicial practices across the region,President Museveni said in his remarks read out for him by his vice, Ms Jessica Alupo, yesterday in Kampala.

This was during the ongoing East African Magistrates and Judges Association conference in Kampala that has drawn hundreds of judicial officers from the EAC including Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Burundi. Read more
By Esther Oluka

The opposition has listed four demands in a rejoinder to the governments statement made last week at Parliament in response to their concerns on human rights abuses and missing persons in the country.

Led by the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament (LoP), Mr Mathias Mpuuga, the legislators yesterday during a plenary sitting, first asked for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners rotting in numerous jails and illegal detention facilities without trial.

Non-trial of these cases is a clear indication of lack of evidence on the side of the government and a red flag that these persecutions are intended to shrink the civil space further and criminalise association with the Opposition in our country,Mr Mpuuga said.

The second demand to the government was formation of a Commission of Inquiry to investigate human rights violations.

We propose that the said Commission of Inquiry be chaired by a judge of the High Court, Mr Mpuuga said, adding,

We believe that the Commission will be endowed with the authority, independence, and resources necessary to uncover the truth, to hold those responsible accountable, and to ensure justice prevails.



The third demand was the establishment of a Select Committee to investigate cases of rape, defilement, destruction of property, murders, and unjustified arrests,among other crimes. Finally, that persons not subjected to military law and are currently being tried before any military court be transferred to civil courts under the direction of Director of Public Prosecutions as directed by the Constitutional Court in the Constitution Petition No.44 of 2015 between Capt (rtd) Amon Byarugaba and others versus Attorney General, decided on December 15, 2022 and was neither appealed nor stayed.

The rejoinder was a response to the November 29 statement from the Executive, reacting to concerns over human rights abuses raised by the Opposition. The responses followed the Oppositions over one-month demand for answers on missing Ugandans and other human rights violations across the country.
Parliament has renewed its commitment to the fight against corruption in the country.

While officiating at the second national conference on Ethics and Morality held at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala on Wednesday, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Mr. Thomas Tayebwa, noted that parliament is ready to deal with corrupt tendencies among its members.

He explained that any member who is involved in corruption in any way will be exposed and dealt with.

Tayebwa said that the fight against immorality resonates with Parliaments oversight role which he said has been renewed starting with the institution itself.

Meanwhile, the chairperson of the Parliamentary Forum on Ethics and Integrity, James Nsaba Buturo, called for the restoration of ethics and morality, noting that nations that are more developed have institutions influenced by ethics and morality.
Traffic at the Busega-Kyengera section along the Kampala-Masaka Highway has been diverted following a collapse of the roadway.

According to a statement released by the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), erosion has been identified as the main cause leading to significant damage of approximately 1.5 meters of the road pavement near the embankment.

The trigger for this unforeseen disaster lies in the escalating water levels within the Lubigi swamp area.

We have taken measures to secure the site and have cordoned off the affected area working with the Uganda Police Force. Our team is currently mobilizing to restore this section of the road as quickly as possible. We kindly request all road users to drive carefully and adhere to the traffic guidelines in place, UNRA said in a statement on Wednesday.

The Directorate of Traffic & Road Safety, in a statement, has issued a cautionary notice to the public. UNRA Engineers, in collaboration with the traffic police, are on-site assessing the extent of the damage.

Motorists heading towards Masaka are strongly advised to divert from Busega Roundabout, opting for Nakawuka Road at Natete traffic lights or Mityana road to avert congestion until further directives are provided.
By AFP

UN climate chief Simon Stiell on Wednesday accused nations of posturing at the COP28 talks in Dubai, raising the temperature on negotiators sparring over the thorny issue of fossil fuels.

Pressure is mounting near the end of the first week of the UN negotiations hosted by the oil-rich UAE, with Europes climate monitor confirming that 2023 will be the hottest year in recorded history.

The latest draft of a global climate agreement is probably expected on Wednesday before it is finalised  in theory  on December 12, according to two people familiar with the negotiations.

The fate of oil, gas and coal  the main drivers of human-caused planet heating  has been the biggest sticking point on the agenda, and divisions around their future have dominated the conference.

We have a starting text on the table, but its a grab bag of  wish lists and heavy on posturing, Stiell told reporters.

At the end of next week, we need COP to deliver a bullet train to speed up climate action. We currently have an old caboose chugging over rickety tracks, he said at the start of a long day, with a plenary session scheduled for later in the afternoon.

 Orderly and just phase-out? 

Battle lines have previously been drawn on whether to agree to phase out or phase down fossil fuels.

However the latest text includes a new phrase calling for an orderly and just phase-out of fossil fuels.

The language could signal a consensus candidate as it would give countries different timelines to cut emissions depending on their level of development and reliance on fossil fuels.

But there is another option: no mention at all of fossil fuels, which reflects opposition from nations including Saudi Arabia, Russia and China, according to several observers who attended the closed meetings.

India on Tuesday evening opposed naming specific sectors or energy sources, one observer said.

One person familiar with the talks said the word orderly came from COP28 president Sultan Al Jaber, who also heads UAE national oil company ADNOC.

Another observer said China agrees with the language.

It is necessary that every party move away from their red lines (and) into solutions, Germanys climate envoy Jennifer Morgan told AFP.
18:00 | Arequipa (Arequipa region), Dec. 6.









From December 5 to 7, 40 local suppliers will have the opportunity to present themselves to 34 buyers from Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom, specializing in adventure and nature tourism.





This is an excellent opportunity to establish direct connections with industry professionals, showcase the richness of Peru's tourism offerings, and foster partnerships that promote sustainable tourism growth.





During the inauguration, PromPeru's Executive President Angelica Matsuda highlighted that thanks to its diverse geography, Peru is an ideal destination for adventure and nature lovers, making these segments a priority for the entity in 2024.





"Adventure tourism and sustainable tourism share a commitment to environmental preservation. Therefore, Adventure Next Peru will feature carbon footprint measures and the use of biodegradable materials for the implementation of stands and other elements. Zero plastics," the Executive President added.









The inauguration concluded with the cutting of the ribbon by the authorities and presentations of Peruvian dances.





It is worth noting that, as part of the preparation for Adventure Next, three familiarization trips have been conducted in Ancash, Madre de Dios, and Arequipa. They have provided international buyers with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the richness, diversity, gastronomy, and local charm of each region.





Furthermore, on Wednesday and Thursday, roundtable discussions, workshops and business meetings will be held to create valuable networking opportunities. Given the importance of the event, three international media outlets from Canada and the United States are covering the activities.









PromPeru promotes tourist activities that positively contribute to the environmental, social, and economic well-being of the country.





In this regard, initiatives like Adventure Next allow Peru to continue positioning itself as a leading destination in adventure and nature tourism.





(END) NDP/RMB/MVB

The Adventure Next Peru kicked off in the 'White City' of Arequipa. This important event of the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) is organized by the Commission for the Promotion of Peru for Export and Tourism (PromPeru) , in collaboration with the Peruvian Association of Adventure Tourism, Ecotourism, and Specialized Tourism (APTAE).Published: 12/6/2023
Ceviche para la humanidad! ???? ??



? "El Gobierno seguira trabajando por el desarrollo de cada una de las regiones de nuestro querido Peru, porque en unidad merecemos crecer, desarrollarnos, tener confianza y esperanza", senalo la presidenta Dina Boluarte durante la ceremonia pic.twitter.com/20QtE3Je5n
Shenandoah, IA (51601)

Today

Cloudy skies with a few snow showers this afternoon. High around 25F. Winds NE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 30%..

Tonight

Periods of snow along with gusty winds at times, especially this evening. Low 11F. Winds NNE at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of snow 100%. 5 to 8 inches of snow expected. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.
Chuck Schumer, pictured here on November 15, has accused Republicans of hostage taking as the path to passing aid to Ukraine and Israel remains unclear.
Four Russian soldiers have been charged with war crimes against an American who was living in Ukraine during the Russian invasion.
YEREVAN, DECEMBER 6, ARMENPRESS. The U.S. continues to engage with Azerbaijan to urge them to seek a durable peace with Armenia, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller has said.

Speaking at a press briefing, Miller said that Assistant Secretary of State James OBriens upcoming trip to Azerbaijan doesnt mean that the U.S. is backpedaling from its policy that, as OBrien himself said earlier in November nothing will be normal with Azerbaijan after the events of September 19 until we see progress on the peace track.

No, not at all, Miller said when asked whether OBriens trip is a departure from newly announced policy. We never said that were not going to continue to engage with Azerbaijan. That would be against our interests as the United States of America. We think it would be against the interests of peace and security in the region for us to just drop all of our diplomatic engagements with Azerbaijan. We continue to engage directly with both Azerbaijan and Armenia to make clear  for example, in the case of Azerbaijan  where we have concerns. Weve been concerned with the recent trend of detaining journalists. We continue to urge them to respect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all, something that Ive spoken to from this podium in the past. And we also continue to engage with them to urge them to seek a durable peace with Armenia, and thats something that will continue to be the focus of our diplomatic engagements.

Miller added that human rights is always on the table for the United States of America when they have these sorts of diplomatic engagements.
CMC Markets plc (LON:CMCX  Get Free Report) announced a dividend on Thursday, November 16th, Upcoming.Co.Uk reports. Shareholders of record on Thursday, December 7th will be given a dividend of GBX 1 ($0.01) per share on Thursday, January 11th. This represents a yield of 1.05%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, December 7th. The official announcement can be accessed at this link.

CMC Markets Price Performance

CMCX stock opened at GBX 95.26 ($1.20) on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 2.35, a quick ratio of 2.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.48. CMC Markets has a 12-month low of GBX 86.90 ($1.10) and a 12-month high of GBX 254 ($3.21). The company has a market cap of 266.56 million, a PE ratio of 2,364.00 and a beta of 0.45. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of GBX 96.40 and a two-hundred day moving average price of GBX 125.69.

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Insider Activity

In other news, insider David Fineberg sold 20,000 shares of CMC Markets stock in a transaction on Friday, September 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of GBX 110 ($1.39), for a total transaction of 22,000 ($27,788.30). In other news, insider David Fineberg sold 20,000 shares of CMC Markets stock in a transaction on Friday, September 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of GBX 110 ($1.39), for a total transaction of 22,000 ($27,788.30). Also, insider Albert Soleiman purchased 7,944 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 30th. The shares were purchased at an average price of GBX 91 ($1.15) per share, for a total transaction of 7,229.04 ($9,131.03). In the last ninety days, insiders have bought 8,882 shares of company stock worth $812,762. 64.87% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on CMCX shares. Shore Capital restated a sell rating on shares of CMC Markets in a research note on Tuesday, November 28th. Royal Bank of Canada cut their price target on CMC Markets from GBX 250 ($3.16) to GBX 140 ($1.77) and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Friday, September 8th. Finally, Peel Hunt downgraded CMC Markets to an add rating and set a GBX 140 ($1.77) price target on the stock. in a report on Tuesday, September 5th.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on CMCX

About CMC Markets

(Get Free Report)

CMC Markets plc, together with its subsidiaries, provides online retail financial services to retail, professional, stockbroking, and institutional clients in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Canada, and internationally. The company offers its clients with the ability to trade contracts for difference and financial spread betting on a range of underlying shares, including indices, foreign currencies, commodities, and treasuries through its trading platform.

Further Reading

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Garda Capital Partners LP purchased a new stake in shares of iShares China Large-Cap ETF (NYSEARCA:FXI  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm purchased 20,500 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $557,000.

Other large investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc. bought a new position in shares of iShares China Large-Cap ETF during the first quarter valued at $30,000. Franklin Resources Inc. raised its stake in shares of iShares China Large-Cap ETF by 177.8% during the second quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. now owns 1,250 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $34,000 after acquiring an additional 800 shares during the last quarter. Pacific Center for Financial Services bought a new position in shares of iShares China Large-Cap ETF during the first quarter valued at $40,000. US Bancorp DE raised its stake in shares of iShares China Large-Cap ETF by 332.3% during the first quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 1,431 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $42,000 after acquiring an additional 1,100 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Hexagon Capital Partners LLC raised its stake in shares of iShares China Large-Cap ETF by 197.3% during the second quarter. Hexagon Capital Partners LLC now owns 1,781 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $48,000 after acquiring an additional 1,182 shares during the last quarter.

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iShares China Large-Cap ETF Stock Up 0.6 %

Shares of FXI stock traded up $0.15 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $24.09. 15,133,838 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 33,132,352. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $25.96 and its 200 day simple moving average is $27.03. The stock has a market cap of $4.51 billion, a PE ratio of 9.27 and a beta of 0.44. iShares China Large-Cap ETF has a 12 month low of $23.77 and a 12 month high of $33.38.

iShares China Large-Cap ETF Company Profile

iShares China Large-Cap ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the FTSE China 25 Index (the Underlying Index). The Funds portfolio of sectors include Financials, Telecommunication, Oil & gas, Technology and Consumer goods.

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John Wood Group PLC (LON:WG  Get Free Report) shares crossed below its 200-day moving average during trading on Monday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of GBX 146.65 ($1.85) and traded as low as GBX 136.79 ($1.73). John Wood Group shares last traded at GBX 141.60 ($1.79), with a volume of 590,845 shares changing hands.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Separately, Canaccord Genuity Group upgraded John Wood Group to a buy rating and reduced their price target for the company from GBX 240 ($3.03) to GBX 225 ($2.84) in a research note on Thursday, August 24th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, John Wood Group currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of GBX 206.80 ($2.61).

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Read Our Latest Report on WG

John Wood Group Stock Up 1.1 %

Insider Transactions at John Wood Group

The company has a quick ratio of 0.75, a current ratio of 0.95 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 38.64. The stock has a 50-day moving average of GBX 147.08 and a 200 day moving average of GBX 146.65. The company has a market capitalization of 969.27 million, a PE ratio of -155.67, a P/E/G ratio of 0.33 and a beta of 1.62.

In other news, insider Ken Gilmartin purchased 4,326 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 16th. The shares were acquired at an average price of GBX 148 ($1.87) per share, for a total transaction of 6,402.48 ($8,087.00). In related news, insider David Kemp acquired 2,635 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 21st. The shares were purchased at an average price of GBX 160 ($2.02) per share, for a total transaction of 4,216 ($5,325.25). Also, insider Ken Gilmartin purchased 4,326 shares of John Wood Group stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, November 16th. The shares were acquired at an average price of GBX 148 ($1.87) per share, for a total transaction of 6,402.48 ($8,087.00). Corporate insiders own 1.73% of the companys stock.

About John Wood Group

(Get Free Report)

John Wood Group PLC, together with its subsidiaries, provides consulting, project management, and engineering solutions to energy and built environment worldwide. It operates through Projects, Operations, Consulting, and Investment Services segments. The Projects segment provides engineering design and project management services across energy and materials markets including oil and gas, chemicals, mining, minerals, and life sciences.

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Shares of Jonestown Bank & Trust Co. (OTCMKTS:JNES  Get Free Report) fell 2.2% on Tuesday . The company traded as low as $22.50 and last traded at $22.50. 1,000 shares changed hands during trading, an increase of 32% from the average session volume of 755 shares. The stock had previously closed at $23.00.

Jonestown Bank & Trust Stock Performance

The business has a 50-day moving average price of $20.38 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $22.64.

Jonestown Bank & Trust Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Jonestown Bank & Trust Co provides banking products and services in Lebanon County and Northern Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The company offers deposit products, including checking accounts, statement savings, club accounts, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, and individual retirement accounts.

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Sylvania Platinum Limited (LON:SLP  Get Free Report) passed below its two hundred day moving average during trading on Monday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of GBX 74.52 ($0.94) and traded as low as GBX 69.10 ($0.87). Sylvania Platinum shares last traded at GBX 73 ($0.92), with a volume of 820,227 shares.

Sylvania Platinum Price Performance

The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of GBX 74.07 and a 200 day simple moving average of GBX 74.36. The company has a market capitalization of 196.52 million, a PE ratio of 576.15, a P/E/G ratio of 0.05 and a beta of 0.53. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.30, a quick ratio of 15.92 and a current ratio of 12.15.

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Sylvania Platinum Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a dividend, which was paid on Friday, December 1st. Shareholders of record on Thursday, October 26th were given a dividend of GBX 5 ($0.06) per share. This represents a yield of 7.14%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, October 26th. This is a boost from Sylvania Platinums previous dividend of $3.00. Sylvania Platinums dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 12,307.69%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Sylvania Platinum

About Sylvania Platinum

In related news, insider Adrian J. Reynolds bought 20,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, September 11th. The shares were acquired at an average price of GBX 80 ($1.01) per share, with a total value of 16,000 ($20,209.68). In other Sylvania Platinum news, insider Adrian J. Reynolds acquired 20,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, September 11th. The stock was purchased at an average price of GBX 80 ($1.01) per share, with a total value of 16,000 ($20,209.68). Also, insider Johannes Jacobus Prinsloo sold 63,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of GBX 70 ($0.88), for a total value of 44,100 ($55,702.92). Insiders own 11.80% of the companys stock.

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Sylvania Platinum Limited primarily engages in the retreatment of platinum group metals (PGM) bearing chrome tailings materials in South Africa and Mauritius. The company produces PGMs, including platinum, palladium, and rhodium. It holds interests in the Sylvania dump operations that comprise six chrome beneficiation and PGM processing plants located in the Eastern and Western Limb of the Bushveld Igneous Complex; and various mineral asset development projects, including Volspruit and Northern Limb projects located on the Northern Limb of the Bushveld Igneous Complex located in South Africa.

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By Baek Byung-yeul

Korea will host the annual meeting of the International Space Exploration Coordination Group (ISECG), which brings together experts of space exploration agencies from around the world, for two days starting from Thursday to discuss a future roadmap regarding space exploration, the science ministry said Wednesday.

The Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) said the two-day event will be held at a hotel in Songdo, Incheon, saying this is the first time that Korea has hosted an ISECG event.

ISECG is an international forum established to promote mutual exchange and cooperation among space agencies regarding space exploration.

Experts from 26 countries, including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) of the U.S. and the European Space Agency (ESA), as well as Korea, Canada, Japan, Italy, France, Germany, the U.K. and Luxembourg will attend the meeting.

"As we enter the era of space economy, it is significant that heads of space exploration from various countries gather in Korea to discuss the global direction of space exploration, an official from the science ministry said. Based on the launch and operation experience of the Danuri lunar orbiter, we will actively participate in global space exploration projects and explore various strategies for space exploration, aiming for asteroids and Mars."

During the annual meeting, participants will present updates on space exploration status and plans, a report on ISECG's activities over the past year, and guidelines for future activities. In particular, the meeting will focus on discussions regarding the revision direction of the Global Exploration Roadmap, a representative publication of ISECG.

In 2018, ISECG published the third edition of the roadmap and the organization plans to publish the fourth edition in the second half of next year, which will include plans for crewed lunar missions by the U.S. and China and the emergence of newly joined countries such as Korea which recently launched its own space launch vehicle, Nuri.

At the meeting, Korea will present the development and operational achievements of its first lunar orbiter Danuri and lunar surface images taken by the orbiter, the ministry said.
Angola, IN (46703)

Today

Overcast. A few flurries or snow showers possible. Temps nearly steady in the low to mid 30s. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph..

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Cloudy skies. Low 26F. SW winds shifting to ESE at 10 to 15 mph.
Kendallville, IN (46755)

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Cloudy. A few flurries or snow showers possible. Temps nearly steady in the low to mid 30s. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph..

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Cloudy skies. Low 26F. SSW winds shifting to ESE at 10 to 20 mph.
Auburn, IN (46706)

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Cloudy skies. A few flurries or snow showers possible. Temps nearly steady in the low to mid 30s. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph..

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YEREVAN, DECEMBER 6, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian government has envisaged 47,3 billion drams under the 2024 budget for assistance programs for the forcibly displaced persons of Nagorno-Karabakh, Finance Minister Vahe Hovhannisyan told lawmakers on December 6.

He said that this figure is just a part of the entire assistance.

The assistance includes support projects in education, employment, social protection, accommodation and other areas.

Authorities are currently discussing additional support measures.

The reserve fund of the 2024 budget is envisaged at an unprecedented level of 156 billion drams, the minister said at the 2024 budget debates.

Speaking about international support for the NK refugees, the minister said that the EU, France and China have pledged to provide budgetary support funds, and upon receiving them the authorities will either reduce the projected deficit of the budget or plan additional urgent spendings.
The reported breakup between BTS's V and BLACKPINK's Jennie, disclosed by JTBC on December 6, has sent shockwaves through the virtual corridors of the online world.

The enigmatic nature of their relationship, never officially acknowledged by either party, had become a tantalizing puzzle for fans and the media alike.

V and Jennie's Intriguing Relationship: Unraveling Clues from Shared Moments to Breakup Speculations

However, the recent revelation adds a new layer to the narrative, prompting an outpouring of emotions and discussions among netizens.

Photographs capturing V and Jennie together had fueled persistent speculations about their romantic involvement, reaching a zenith when V made a conspicuous appearance at Jennie's BLACKPINK listening party.

While both stars had maintained a discreet silence about their personal lives, the subtle hints and shared moments had painted a vivid picture for fans, leaving them eager to uncover the truth.

YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN: BTS V & BLACKPINK Jennie's Relationship 'Verified' By THIS New Photo

The Online Community Erupts as V and Jennie's Alleged Breakup Takes Center Stage

As news of their alleged breakup circulated, the online community became a virtual agora for fans to voice their reactions.

NETIZENS COMMENTS

Here's what fans are saying:

They didn't even admit it, but the breakup article... Some of them are tearful.... A lot of couples, not just celebrities, break up before military service... I don't know where the information came from, but it seems like it would be right for this couple to announce their breakup? There are so many pictures that it's almost like it's acknowledged, so if they break up quietly and start dating someone else while the man's army is around, there will be some criticism. How funny is it that they broke up before enlistment lol? I thought they were a really nice couple, but it's a shame they broke up. Was it a dating official..? That's good it should be hard.. The two looked so good together, but it's a shame I hope that no matter what path you take, I will support you both and be happy. They seemed to be dating well, but did they break up because of the military? They're so good at each other that it's cool that there's no harm done.They can date, break up, or get back together haha. They're still young!!!I hope V returns to the military in good health

Social media platforms were flooded with a spectrum of emotions, ranging from disbelief to sorrow and, in some instances, expressions of support.

he absence of official confirmation only served to intensify the debates, with netizens dissecting every nuance of the situation.

V and Jennie's Alleged Breakup Sparks a Reflection on the Intersection of Fame and Privacy

The rumored separation of V and Jennie has become more than just celebrity gossip; it has morphed into a collective exploration of the delicate intersection between public personas and private lives.

Fans and observers alike are grappling with the complexities of navigating fame while maintaining a semblance of personal space.

As the story unfolds in the digital realm, the evolving narratives surrounding V and Jennie's relationship continue to captivate audiences, underscoring the enduring fascination society has with the intricate tapestry of celebrity romances.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: BLACKPINK Jennie & BTS V on A Date? BLINKs, ARMYs Express Real Feelings About Idols' Relationship

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KpopStarz own this article.

Cassidy Jones wrote this.
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YEREVAN, DECEMBER 6, ARMENPRESS. The U.S. wants to make sure that it can help those in need around the world, including ethnic Armenians, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said.

And then there are people in need around the world, throughout the world, whether it is ethnic Armenians, whether its Rohingya, whether its Sudanese  you name it, we want to make sure that America is there to help them, Blinken said at the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition 2023 Tribute Celebration.

He made the remarks in the context of ongoing debates in the U.S. Congress around additional funding for Ukraine and Israel, as well as various humanitarian goals.
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], December 6 (ANI): Leading renewable energy solutions company Adani Green Energy Limited has attained the position of the second-largest global solar photovoltaic (PV) developer, in Mercom Capital Group's latest annual global report.

According to the report, the Adani Group company's outstanding performance and contribution to the renewable energy landscape have earned it the second rank among the world's foremost solar photovoltaic developers.

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With a total solar capacity of 18.1 GW encompassing operational, under-construction, and awarded (PPA-contracted) projects, Adani Green Energy solidifies its position in the global solar energy sector.

With a total capacity of 41.3 GW, France-based TotalEnergies emerged at the top, as per the report.

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Gautam Adani, the Chairman, of Adani Group, said, "We are committed to large-scale renewables, developing an indigenous fully integrated manufacturing ecosystem and green hydrogen solutions."

"At the Adani portfolio level, a total investment of USD 75 billion (by 2030) on our energy transition initiatives will further our vision to have 45 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030 and strengthen the pivotal role played by AGEL in India's glide path to decarbonisation," said the group chairman.

Mercom Capital Group, a reputable clean energy communications and research firm, has unveiled its report outlining the top ten leading global large-scale solar PV developers based on data compiled from July 2022 to June 2023.

It included data on projects with more than 1 MW capacity encompassing operational capacity, projects under construction and projects with awarded Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).

The top 10 developers accounted for 145 GW of operational, under-construction, and awarded (PPA-contracted) solar projects during the reporting period.

Of this, 49.5 GW of projects were operational, 29.1MW were under construction, and 66.2 GW were in pipeline (PPA-contracted). (ANI)

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PRNewswire

Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], December 6: Manipal Hospitals, a pioneer in healthcare, is proud to announce the launch of two groundbreaking initiatives aimed at enhancing the healthcare experience for the community in Bengaluru.

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Adult Vaccination Program: Prioritizing Health at Every Stage of Life

While vaccinations for children are widely emphasized, adult vaccinations are equally crucial. There exists a general lack of awareness in the community about the importance of adult vaccinations. In a significant move to address the often-overlooked aspect of adult healthcare, Manipal Hospitals is introducing a comprehensive Adult Vaccination Program.

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Arnab Mondal, Hospital Director, Manipal Hospital Whitefield Cluster, states, "The launch of our Adult Vaccination Program underscores our commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare solutions. By addressing the unique vaccination needs of adults, we aim to build a healthier community and reduce the burden of preventable diseases." The initiative focuses on the critical need for vaccinations in adults, shedding light on the prevailing lack of awareness in the community regarding adult vaccinations.

* Navigating Travel Vaccine Guidelines - The program addresses the confusion surrounding frequently changing travel vaccine guidelines. Given the dynamic nature of these guidelines, Manipal Hospitals seeks to educate and guide individuals on the necessity of travel vaccinations, ensuring their health and safety during travel.* Pre and Post Menopause Vaccination - Menopause brings about physiological and hormonal changes in women, making them more vulnerable to infections. The Adult Vaccination Program recognizes unique healthcare needs during pre and post menopause and advocates for vaccinations, to protect and enhance women's health during this transitional period.* Vaccinations for Senior Citizens - As individuals age, their immune systems undergo changes that can impact their ability to fight off infections, otherwise called immunosenescence. Highlighting the importance of vaccinations for senior citizens, especially when their bodies are at the threshold of immunosenescence, the program underscores how vaccines play a crucial role in building a resilient and healthy community.* Public Awareness through Panel Discussions - The event will also witness a panel discussion featuring eminent healthcare experts Dr. Veerendra Sutar, Consultant - Internal Medicine, Manipal Hospital Whitefield; Dr. Sheetal Chaurasia, Consultant - Pulmonary Medicine, Manipal Hospital Whitefield; Dr. Shivraj Ajji Kariyappala Lakshman, Consultant - Pulmonology; Manipal Hospital, Varthur Road; and neighbourhood representative Col. Ashish Gupta, to disseminate crucial information about adult vaccinations, fostering public awareness and encouraging proactive healthcare practices.

Manipal Hospitals Bangalore invites the community to participate in the Adult Vaccination Program and take a proactive step towards safeguarding individual and community health.

2. Neighbourhood Desk: Personalized Care at Your Fingertips

In a bid to enhance the overall healthcare experience, Manipal Hospitals is introducing exclusive Neighbourhood Desks within the hospital premises. Mr Arnab Mondal said, "The neighborhood desks are our commitment to enhancing your healthcare experience. With personalized care and assistance, we want to make your time with us as comfortable and stress free as possible."

Every Manipal Hospital will feature an Exclusive Neighbourhood Desk, a dedicated support desk committed to providing personalized care and assistance. The Neighbourhood Desk team is poised to ensure that patients receive the best care and experience a hassle-free hospital journey. With a focus on addressing queries and concerns, the team at the Neighbourhood Desk is committed to making your health their top priority.

Manipal Hospitals believes that these initiatives will not only revolutionize the way healthcare is perceived and delivered but also contribute significantly to building a healthier and more informed community.

For more information, please visit: https://www.manipalhospitals.com/

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VMPL

New Delhi [India], December 6: In its pursuit of transforming the tech education landscape, bSkilling, an innovative Edtech company founded in 2011, is making waves with its commitment to providing top-notch training in emerging technologies. The company's mission is to ensure accessibility and affordability for all individuals seeking to enhance their skills.

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bSkilling specializes in online and offline training programs, focusing on cutting-edge areas such as cloud computing, data science, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Additionally, the company offers courses in Cyber Security, Project Management, Business Analysis, and Digital Marketing.

A key differentiator for bSkilling is its strategic partnerships with industry leaders like AWS, Microsoft, CompTIA, IIBA, Oracle, PMI, and PeopleCert. These partnerships guarantee that bSkilling's training programs align with the latest industry standards, providing students with access to the most current technologies and resources.

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One of bSkilling's standout initiatives is its revolutionary "pay after placement" program. This unique approach allows students to defer payment until after they secure a job, removing financial barriers and fostering inclusivity in tech education. The program has garnered praise from both students and employers, offering graduates a debt-free entry into the tech workforce and providing employers with highly skilled and job-ready individuals.

In a brief period, bSkilling has made remarkable strides with this approach, showcasing achievements that include educating and placing over 1000 students in esteemed tech companies. This has further strengthened bSkilling's standing as a provider of skills highly in demand in the industry. The company has also delivered training to over 750 working professionals, serving as a valuable resource for upskilling and reskilling in the swiftly changing tech environment.

Beyond individual success stories, bSkilling plays a crucial role in bridging the skills gap in the Indian tech sector, contributing to the development of a new generation of adept tech professionals ready to meet industry demands.

As a trailblazer in the tech education sector, bSkilling is setting new standards by making high-quality training accessible to all, thereby transforming lives. For more details about bSkilling and its programs, please visit https://www.bskilling.com/ or contact 9845348601.

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PRNewswire

London [UK]/ Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], December 6: UST, a leading digital transformation solutions company, was recognised for the fourth consecutive year at the prestigious 2023 Business Culture Awards (BCA), winning recognition for its commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and sustainability. This year, UST secured wins in two significant categories - Best CSR/Corporate Sustainability Initiative for its community-based environment projects aligned with its business strategy and net zero goal, and Best Global/International Organization for Business Culture for COLORS, an award-winning employee engagement program of UST.

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The award ceremony was held in London, UK, and celebrated UST's exceptional accomplishments in fostering a culture of excellence and sustainability. The company secured victory in two competitive categories, underscoring its commitment to corporate social responsibility, and building an inclusive business culture. UST has previously been recognized across a range of categories by BCA, earning recognition as the Best Large Organization - Business Culture and Building a Culture of Innovation in 2022, the Business Culture Team Award in 2021 and the Best International Initiative for Business Culture in 2020.

By securing top honors in the Best CSR/Corporate Sustainability Initiative, UST affirmed its dedication to leading in corporate sustainability and social responsibility on a global stage. Furthermore, recognition by BCA as the Best Global/International Organisation for Business Culture category, highlights UST's global influence and unwavering commitment to cultivating a positive and inclusive business culture. In addition to these prestigious awards, UST was named a finalist in three other prominent categories:

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* Building a Culture of Innovation Initiative: UST's initiatives to instill a culture of innovation within the organization were acknowledged, positioning the company among the finalists in this dynamic category.

* Business Culture Leadership Award: UST's leadership's commitment to cultivating a positive and impactful business culture garnered the company a finalist position in this leadership-focused category.

* Business Culture Team Award (Large Organization): UST's expansive team and their collaborative efforts were recognized, securing a finalist position in the large organization category.

BCA judges were impressed by the impact of UST's initiatives, with one stating, "An organization that effectively translates its words into actions in the realm of CSR." Another judge praised UST's inclusive strategy, noting, "COLORS of UST serves as a noteworthy illustration of enhancing and adapting a well-established, award-winning program to meet evolving organizational and global needs, rather than opting for a complete reinvention, which often involves communication and adoption challenges."

"It is an honor to have represented UST alongside esteemed colleagues at the Business Culture Awards ceremony. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to fostering a business culture rooted in excellence, innovation, and sustainability. I am proud of our team's collective efforts, and this achievement inspires us to further elevate industry standards. At UST, we believe that corporate success should be a force for positive societal impact, and this award strengthens our resolve to lead the way in shaping a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand," said Praveen Prabhakaran, Chief Delivery Officer, UST.

"I want to express my deepest appreciation to every member of our global team whose unwavering commitment propels us forward in our mission to transform lives. This achievement goes beyond mere acknowledgment; it is a celebration of our shared values and the impact of our persistent endeavors to create a better society for all. Whether through our CSR initiatives or COLORS programs, each team member has played a pivotal role in helping us win recognition for the fourth consecutive year. To our teams around the world that are guided by our core values - Humility, Humanity, and Integrity - thank you for being the driving force behind our success and embodying the distinctive spirit that defines UST," said Sunil Balakrishnan, Chief Values Officer, and Global Head for Development Center Operations, UST.

This remarkable achievement underscores UST's dedication to excellence across various facets of business culture. As a company at the forefront of innovation and sustainability, UST continues to set industry benchmarks, shaping a future where corporate success is synonymous with sustained social impact.

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

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Mathura (UP), Dec 6 (PTI) Police detained about a dozen members of right-wing groups when they tried to march towards Shahi Idgah here, which they claim to be Shri Krishna's birthplace, on the 31st anniversary of the demolition of Babri Masjid in Ayodhya.

Senior Superintendent of Police Sailesh Kumar Pandey said, Prohibitory orders are in place across the city; some people who tried to violate it were detained for a few hours to ensure law and order."

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Additional police forces were also deployed across the city to avoid any untoward incident on the day.

Several right-wing groups had earlier announced to organise various programmes in Mathura on the occasion but the programmes were cancelled following the intervention of local administration.

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Despite this, when the members of Hindu Mahasabha and some of Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Sangharsh Samiti tried to march towards Shahi Idgah, despite the appeal of the administration, they were taken into custody, according to police.

Those detained include Swami Tarakeshwar and Dinesh Sharma of Sant Raksha Sangathan.

Similarly, three women and two men of the Agra unit of the Hindu Mahasabha were also detained by the police for violating prohibitory orders.

Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha leader Rajashree Choudhury said, "'Pind daan', a last rite ritual, was done at the Vishram Ghat on the banks of Yamuna for karsevaks who were killed during the Ram Janmabhoomi movement in 1990.

Choudhury was referring to the 1990 incident in Ayodhya during which police had opened fire at karsevaks marching towards the city.

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YEREVAN, DECEMBER 6, ARMENPRESS. Chief of Staff of the Prime Ministers Office Arayik Harutyunyan has met with Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Armenia, Ambassador Vassilis Maragos.

Harutyunyan thanked Ambassador Maragos for the efforts aimed at intensifying partnership and expressed hope that the mutual commitment to deepen Armenia-EU cooperation will contribute to the swift implementation of expected initiatives, Harutyunyans office said in a readout.

Speaking about the problems of the forcibly displaced persons of Nagorno-Karabakh, Harutyunyan attached importance to the EUs continuous support for addressing the needs of the refugees.

Harutyunyan and Maragos exchanged ideas about the course and prospects of cooperation between Armenia and the EU, and discussed the regional developments, security developments and the course of the reforms undertaken by the Armenian government. In this context, the sides discussed strategic communication, the imperative of introducing and developing it as an institution and looked into the opportunities and mechanisms for studying and localizing the best experience of the EU.

Chief of Staff Arayik Harutyunyan presented the Crossroads of Peace project to Ambassador Maragos and said that the government of Armenia expects effective support from all international partners in implementing this important regional initiative.

An agreement was reached to jointly make efforts to make the current Armenia-EU partnership more effective.
New Delhi, December 6: At least 4127 Border Security Force personnel followed by 2572 Central Reserve Police Force personnel have opted for voluntary retirement from service in the year 2023 to date, the Parliament was told on Wednesday. Union Minister of State (Home Affairs) Nityanand Rai informed the Rajya Sabha that the number of voluntary retirement cases in Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Assam Rifle (AR) varies from year to year and no trend in this regard has been observed.

"Reasons for voluntary retirement as indicated by forces are personal and domestic reasons including children/family issues, health issues of self or family members, social/family obligations and commitments, better career opportunities are some of the major reasons for voluntary retirement," he informed. BSF Raising Day 2023: PM Narendra Modi Lauds Border Security Force Personnel; Says, 'Their Valour and Unwavering Spirit Is Testament To Their Dedication'.

Rai was responding to a question related to CAPF personnel seeking voluntary retirement. He also informed that the government has taken steps, inter-alia to reduce the number of personnel seeking voluntary retirement like timely conduct of cadre review, grant of modified assured career progression benefit under which three financial upgradations in the interval of 10, 20 and 30 years of regular service to mitigate stagnation; rotation of units deployed in extremely hard and hard areas to normal areas; posting near the home town during last two years of superannuation; extending loans for higher education, purchase of computer, plot/flat, medical facilities etc. Women BSF Personnel Guard Indo-Pak Border in Punjabs Amritsar (Watch Video).

In 2023, 1280 personnel of Assam Riffles, 4127 BSF, 596 CISF, 2572 CRPF, 324 ITBP and 271 SSB personnel took voluntary retirement. In the year 2022, 1188 Assam Riffles, 5341 BSF, 762 CISF, 3019 CRPF, 545 ITBP and 314 SSB opted for voluntary retirement, the minister added.

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Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], December 6 (ANI): In a solemn ceremony held at Raj Bhavan today, the Governor of Karnataka, Thaawarchand Gehlot, paid heartfelt tribute to the eminent social reformer and architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr BR Ambedkar, on the occasion of his 67th 'Mahaparinirvan Diwas'.

Accompanied by officials from Raj Bhavan, Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot laid floral wreaths at the statue of Dr. Ambedkar within the premises of Raj Bhavan, marking a poignant moment of reflection and reverence for the visionary leader's enduring contributions to the nation.

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In Mumbai, Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Speaker Rahul Narvekar also offered his tribute to BR Ambedkar and said, "I consider myself very fortunate to pay my respects to Babasaheb Ambedkar, who gave this country the most powerful and influential constitution in the world."

Earlier in the day, President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and other parliamentarians paid tribute to the architect of the Constitution at his statue in the Parliament premises today.

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Taking to his social media account, 'X' PM Modi wrote, "Pujya Baba Saheb, along with being the architect of the Indian Constitution, was an immortal champion of social harmony, who dedicated his life for the welfare of the exploited and the deprived. My respectful obeisances to him today on his Mahaparinirvana day.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also paid tributes to Baba Saheb Ambedkar "Baba Saheb Dr. BR Amdebkar had dedicated his entire life to towards the establishment of an equal and just society, the progress of the nation , human rights and social justice for all. On his death anniversary I pay sincere homage to him."

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in his message said " On 'Mahaparinirvan Diwas', I bow to Babasaheb Ambedkar and his remarkable contributions to our nation. His thoughts inspired millions, and our coming generations will never forget his role in creating India's Constitution."

In his message Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also paid tributes to the architecht of the Indian Constitution saying "We are Indians, firstly and lastly" ~ Babasaheb Dr. B R Ambedkar Babasaheb was a lifelong champion of the democratic principles of liberty, equality, fraternity and justice. On his Mahaparinirvan Diwas, we pay our deepest respects to his ideas of social transformation and social justice. We must collectively resolve to preserve and protect his finest contribution to the nation -- the Constitution of India."

Born on April 14, 1891, Baba Saheb Ambedkar was an Indian jurist, economist, politician and social reformer who campaigned against social discrimination towards Dalits and supported the rights of women ad workers. He died on December 6, 1956.

Baba Saheb Ambedkar was a prolific student, earning doctorates in economics from both Columbia University and the University of London. In 1956. He led a satyagraha in Mahad to fight for the right of the untouchable community to draw water from the main water tank of the town.

On 25 September, 1932, the agreement known as Poona Pact was signed between Ambedkar and Madan Mohan Malaviya. Due to the pact, the depressed class received 148 seats in the legislature, instead of the 71 as allocated earlier.

He was also one of the seven members of the committee that drafted the Indian Constitution after independence. In 1990, Ambedkar was conferred with the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award.

Baba Saheb Ambedkar died in his sleep on 6 December, 1956, at his home in Delhi. (ANI)

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Indore, Dec 6 (PTI) A 21-year-old man was beaten up by some people in Indore city of Madhya Pradesh on suspicion of indulging in an 'immoral act' with a woman, police said on Wednesday.

The incident occurred on Tuesday night at a busy intersection in the city which was recorded on mobile phones.

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In a video clip, a man can be seen with his shirt removed amid cold weather and members of the crowd asking him what he was doing with the woman along with another youth on the side of a drain.

The man can be seen holding his ears and telling the crowd that he was accompanying his friend and that he had nothing to do with the woman. His friend, however, beat a retreat from the spot after seeing the crowd.

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Annapurna police station in-charge Sanju Kamle said the 21-year-old man seen in the video had come to meet the woman along with another youth.

The woman's family members caught hold of the three in a "suspicious condition" which resulted in a dispute, he said, adding that the crowd gathered at the spot assuming that something was amiss.

The man has been taken into custody under section 151 (preventive arrest to prevent commission of cognizable offence) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and an investigation is underway, Kamle added.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Gadchiroli (Maharashtra) [India], December 6 (ANI): Maharashtra Police has arrested a hardcore Maoist with a Rs 2 lakh reward on his arrest from Gadchiroli, officials said on Wednesday.

"A credible intelligence report was received on Wednesday morning that a hardcore Maoist, Mahendra Kishtayya Veladi, 32 years old, is roaming suspiciously along the Indravati River to provide information about the movement of the security forces," as per a press note.

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In light of this information, an anti-Naxal operation was launched immediately and the Maoist was apprehended near the Indravati river bank, the note added.

Further, during interrogation, the suspect revealed that he was keeping watch on the security forces of both Damrancha and Mannerajaram Armed Outpost to provide information for targeting them during their routine operations to the Aheri Maoist units, the note stated.

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He was arrested under sections 397, 332, 353, 341, 324, 323, 120(B), 427, 435, 143, 147, 148, 149, 506, 186 IPC r/w Sec 3/25 Arms Act, 135 Maharashtra Police Act and Sec 7 of Criminal Law Amendment Act, the note added.

"Due to the intensified operations conducted by the Gadchiroli Police, a total of 72 hardcore Maoists have been arrested since January 2022. This action was undertaken under the guidance of Neelotpal, Superintendent of Police, Gadchiroli; Yatish Deshmukh, Additional Superintendent of Police (Ops.), Kumar Chintha, Additional Superintendent of Police (Admin.), and M Ramesh, Additional Superintendent of Police, Aheri," as per the press note.

Furthermore, Neelotpal, SP Gadchiroli, has appealed to active Maoist cadres to renounce the path of violence and surrender in order to live their lives with dignity.

"Maoists observe the People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) week from December 2nd to 8th. During this period, Maoists undertook various activities against the government, such as destroying government property, arsoning developmental projects, laying ambush on security forces, etc," as per the press note. (ANI)

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Aizawl, Dec 6 (PTI) The MNF, which was trounced in the Mizoram Assembly election, Wednesday rejected the resignation of its president Zoramthanga and agreed that he will continue in the post, party sources said.

The national core committee and political affairs committee of MNF rejected Zoramthanga's resignation and lauded his gesture of taking the moral responsibility of his defeat, MNF senior vice-president Tawnluia said.

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The meeting felt that the election outcome is the collective responsibility of the party and not of the president alone, he said.

Zoramthanga, who served as chief minister of the state for 30 long years, had put in his papers following the party's debacle in the election. The counting of votes was held on Monday.

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"The MNF failed to win the state assembly polls. In this regard, I take moral responsibility as the party chief. Considering that it is my obligation as the MNF president, I do hereby tender resignation from the president post and request you to accept the same," Zoramthanga said in his resignation letter to Tawnluia on Tuesday.

In a major setback the MNF lost to opposition Zoram People's Movement (ZPM), which won 27 seats in the 40-member state assembly.

MNF managed to secure only 10 seats reducing its tally from 26 in 2018 assembly polls, while Zoramthanga himself also lost his Aizawl East-I seat to ZPM vice-president Lalthansanga by a margin of 2,101 votes.

Zoramthanga has been the MNF president since the death of Laldenga in 1990.

The 79-year-old MNF chief has so far successfully contested assembly polls for six times in 1987, 1989, 1993, 1998, 2003 and 2018. He served as chief minister between 1998 and 2008 and 2018 and 2023.

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New Delhi [India], December 6 (ANI): Delhi's Karkardooma Court has granted bail to a person accused in four North East Delhi riots cases. These cases pertain to rioting in February 2020 in the area under Police Station Shastri Park.

Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Pulastya Pramachala granted bail to Surendra Nath Yadav on Tuesday.

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The court granted bail to the accused on the ground parity and change in the circumstances. The court directed him to furnish a bail bond of Rs 10000 and one surety bond in the like amount.

The court said that it is an admitted situation that the investigation qua the applicant is complete now and that a chargesheet has been filed qua the applicant before the court. It is also a matter of record that co-accused persons are already on bail in aforesaid cases, it added.

Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Condoles Loss of Lives Due to Cyclonic Storm Michaung in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry.

"Apart from the applicant, some other co-accused persons are also reportedly seen in the videos," the court observed.

"Thus, the role attributed to the applicant is not more serious than the co-accused persons, who are already on bail. Hence, there is a change in the circumstances after the rejection of the previous bail application of the applicant, in these cases. On the ground of parity itself, I find the applicant to be entitled to bail," ASJ Pramachala said in the order on December 5.

Advocate Anu Prakash, counsel for the accused submitted that in these cases, he had withdrawn the application before the High Court of Delhi because by that time chargesheet was filed against the applicant before the court.

He also argued that the previous application was rejected by this court in these cases because at that time investigation was still going on.

On the other hand, Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) Madhukar Pandey, and IO/SI Narender Singh, opposed all four applications on thegrounds that the applicant had been absconding to date and that his appearance was visible in the video of the riot.

These FIRs related to the riotous incident that took place on February 24, 2020, and February 25 in the village, old Garhi Mendu.

Several accused persons have already been charge-sheeted in all these FIRs. However, the applicant was not arrested initially. He was arrested on August 24, 2023. (ANI)

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Chandigarh (Punjab) [India], December 6 (ANI): Punjab police on Wednesday carried out a special operation 'OPS Seal-V', aiming to check all the vehicles entering or exiting the border state of Punjab to keep a tab on drug trafficking and liquor smuggling, besides, keeping vigil on the movement of gangsters and anti-social elements.

The operation was conducted in a synchronised manner from 8 am to 2 pm on the directions of the Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav.

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Special DGP Law and Order Arpit Shukla said that ADGsP Bathinda, Patiala and Rupnagar Ranges, IGsP Faridkot Range and DIsG Border, Jalandhar and Ferozepur Ranges were asked to coordinate with their counterpart Range IGsP of the Bordering states to ensure effective Nakabandi as part of 'OPS Seal-V'.

All the SSPs of border districts were directed to organise joint Naka operations at strategic places of the border districts and mobilise a maximum number of manpower to lay strong 'nakas' at sealing points under the supervision of gazetted officers/SHOs, he added.

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He further said that well-coordinated strong nakas involving over 1200 Police Personnel were set up under the supervision of Inspectors/DSPs at all the 131 entry/exit points of 10 districts, which share boundaries with four border states and UT Chandigarh. The 10 inter-state border districts include Pathankot, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Fazilka, Ropar, SAS Nagar, Patiala, Sangrur, Mansa, Hoshiarpur and Bathinda.

"During the operation, a thorough search of suspected vehicles/persons was conducted while ensuring minimum inconvenience was caused to the general public. Besides checking the vehicles, Police teams have also verified their registration numbers using the VAHAN mobile app," he said.

"We had strictly instructed all the police personnel to deal with every commuter in a friendly and polite manner while checking their vehicles during this operation," he added.

The Special DGP said that as many as 3760 vehicles entering or exiting the state were checked, of which 271 were challaned and 46 were impounded.

The Police have also registered 23 first information reports (FIRs) after arresting 26 persons. The police teams have also rounded up 211 suspicious persons for questioning.

Meanwhile, such operations help in showing the police presence in the field, besides, infusing fear among anti-social elements and instilling a sense of security among common people. (ANI)

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New Delhi, December 6: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to visit Tamil Nadu to assess the flood situation caused due to cyclone 'Michaung'. Taking to 'X', Tamil Nadu BJP President Annamalai wrote, "Our Hon PM Thiru @narendramodiavl is with the people of TN always & especially during the testing times. Our Hon Defence Minister Thiru @rajnathsingh avl will be in Chennai tomorrow to assess the flood situation caused due to Cyclone Michaung."

Singh will be accompanied by Thangam Thennarasu, Finance Minister and Chief Secretary of the state during this visit. Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, L Murugan, will also accompany the Defence Minister on the visit. After the aerial visit, Rajnath Singh will hold a meeting with the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, MK Stalin and review the relief work being carried out by various agencies in the state. Cyclone Michaung: Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin Writes to PM Narendra Modi, Seeks Relief Fund of Rs 5060 Crores.

Earlier today, CM Stalin took stock of affected areas due to Cyclone Michaung on Wednesday and distributed necessities like food and milk to rainfall-affected people in Chennai. "The floodwaters in Chennai's suburbs are still inundated. Many people are working in the field to ensure that everyone gets necessities like food and milk. We are continuing our fieldwork with the hope that the situation will improve soon!" MK Stalin posted on X.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also expressed his condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Michaung. In a post on X, PM Modi said, "My thoughts are with the families of those who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Michaung. My prayers are with those injured or affected in the wake of this cyclone. Authorities have been working tirelessly on the ground to assist those affected and will continue their work till the situation fully normalises." Cyclone Michaung Weakened Into Deep Depression Over Central Coastal Andhra Pradesh After Making Landfall, Says IMD.

After the destruction caused by Cyclone Michaung in Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister MK Stalin on Wednesday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking an immediate interim relief fund of Rs 5060 crores.CM Stalin also requested the PM to send a central team to review the damages caused by the Cyclone in the state. Tamil Nadu CM also inspected the cyclone-affected areas on Wednesday morning.

In the late hours of Tuesday, CM Stalin posted on X and said that the entire government machinery has been working hard to remove the effects of Cyclone Michaung. "The entire government machinery, such as ministers, officials, police, sanitation workers, and corporation workers are working hard to quickly remove the effects of the Cyclone Michaung calamity that surrounds us. I request that many more comrades should immediately join hands with the relief work along with the members of the club who are helping in the field. Members of the affected areas come quickly!" CM Stalin said on X.

Meanwhile, Cyclone Michaung has weakened into a deep depression over central coastal Andhra Pradesh, the India Meteorological Department informed on Wednesday. "Depression(Remnant of CS MICHAUNG) over NE Telangana adj S Chhattisgarh, S Interior Odisha, Coastal AP moved north northeastwards in past 06 hrs and weakened to Well Marked Low-Pressure Area at 830 hrs of 6 Dec. Likely to weaken into Low-Pressure Area in next 12 hrs," the IMD said.

According to officials, the flooding in Chennai following heavy rains triggered by Cyclone Michaung had claimed 17 on Tuesday. On Wednesday the Chennai Police reported 6 more death. According to the police, as many as 10 incidents of drowning and electrocution have been reported for which medical assistance was rendered. Flood warning announcements through the public address system were also being made by GCP in coordination with Greater Chennai Corporation for those living in the low-lying areas along the Adyar River bank, an official release stated.

The state officials were also trying their best to respond to distress messages on social media and extend timely and necessary assistance, sources said. The Chennai Police also said that low-lying areas of Manapakkam and Thuraipakkam were visited by the Additional Commissioner of Police (South) Prem Anand Sinha & DC Mount and relief & rescue measures with the assistance of Chennai Corporation officials were provided.

In an attempt to flush rainwater out of the city, another corporation of Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore, dispatched twelve 41-HP motors to Chennai for flood relief operations.

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New Delhi [India], December 6 (ANI): In reaction to the murder of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal on Thursday said that this incident is a result of the collapse of law and order in Rajasthan during Congress government.

"This is a highly condemnable incident and this is a result of the collapse of law and order in Rajasthan during the Congress government. We demand that the criminals should be nabbed by the police at the earliest," Meghwal said speaking to reporters on Wednesday at the Parliament premises.

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Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi was shot dead by unidentified bike-borne criminals in Jaipur on Tuesday.

Rajasthan DGP Umesh Mishra said that raids are being conducted at the possible hideouts of the miscreants.

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"Karni Sena chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi was murdered in Jaipur. The killers had come to his house on the pretext of discussing something. In this incident, Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi and one of his bodyguards were shot. An accused accompanying the killers was also shot, who has died. Raids are being conducted at the possible hideouts of the miscreants...We spoke to the Haryana DG and assistance has been sought. Rohit Godara gang has taken responsibility for the murder, they will be arrested soon," Rajasthan DGP said.

Meanwhile, Karni Sena activists have begun a sit-in to protest against the death of their president. The Karni Sena also protested outside the District Collectorate Office in Udaipur and demanded a state bandh.

In Jaipur, members of the Rajput community sat in protest against the murder of the Karni Sena national president. The Rajput community outfits supporting Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi have also called for a state-wide bandh. (ANI)

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New Delhi, December 6: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will return to power after the 2024 general elections and hoped that by 2026, terrorism will be completely eliminated from Jammu and Kashmir. Replying to a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, Shah said the government's focus is on ending the ecosystem which has been aiding and abetting terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir for years.

He said with the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, separatism has ended in the Union Territory and terrorism has reduced significantly. "I believe the Modi government will return to power in 2024 and I hope there will be no terror incident in Jammu and Kashmir in 2026," he said. Bills on Jammu and Kashmir Aimed at Providing Justice and Rights to Those Who Were Ignored, Says Amit Shah in Lok Sabha (Watch Videos).

Home Minister Amit Shah Speaks in Lok Sabha

#WATCH | Union HM Amit Shah speaks on The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 & The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2023 He says, "...When terrorism tightened its grip, when everyone started being targeted and driven away, many people expressed their pic.twitter.com/tov7Ua9ENA  ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2023

#WATCH | Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks on The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 & The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2023 He says, "There was an era of terrorism after the 1980s and it was horrifying. Those who lived on the land considering it pic.twitter.com/j1O6JIcOIq  ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2023

#WATCH | Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks on The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 & The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2023 Says, "The Bill that I have brought here pertains to bringing justice to and providing rights to those against whom pic.twitter.com/DAl8zIv7Zi  ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2023

The home minister said a plan to have zero terror incident in Jammu and Kashmir is in force for the last three years and it will be successful by 2026. He blamed the previous governments for the continuous terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir for a long period of time and said had terrorism been tackled at the beginning "without considering vote-bank politics", Kashmiri Pandits wouldn't have had to leave the valley.

Shah said 45,000 people have lost their lives due to terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir so far. He also gave statistics on the reduction of terror-related incidents in Jammu and Kashmir and said in 2023, there has not been a single stone pelting incident, nor there was a call for 'hartal'.

"Every month, the home ministry reviews the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and in every three months, I visit Jammu and Kashmir and review the situation there," he said. The home minister said people who used to say what happened in Jammu and Kashmir are cut off from the ground situation and obviously they would not know what changes have happened in Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir Bills Brought To Give Justice to Those Deprived of Rights for Last 70 Years, Says Amit Shah (Watch Video).

"Those holidaying in England will not notice any change in Jammu and Kashmir," he said. Shah said when terrorism started in Kashmir, people were targeted and they had to flee. "I have seen many leaders who shed crocodile tears and consoled well with words. But Modi is the only leader who has worked to wipe out their tears," he said. He said about 46,631 families and 1,57,967 people were displaced in their own country and were displaced in such a way that they were uprooted from their own homeland and this bill is going to give them rights and representation.

He said after the delimitation exercise in Jammu and Kashmir, there will be 43 assembly seats in Jammu region -- up from present 37 -- and in Kashmir Valley it will be 47 from 46. Under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, two members from the Kashmiri migrant community and one representing the displaced persons from the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) will be nominated to the legislative assembly. As many as 24 seats will be kept for the residents of PoK.

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YEREVAN, DECEMBER 6, ARMENPRESS. International organizations have been monitoring Armenia's progress in the field of democracy over the past five years. However, despite these assessments, the government does not consider that Armenia's democracy is perfect.

The Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said during a question-and-answer session in the National Assembly, in response to a query from Levon Kocharyan, an MP from the 'Armenia' faction whether the government has studied how many people are detained in democratic countries for publications on social networks, how many people are persecuted for expressing dissenting opinions, considering that similar cases have been recorded in Armenia.

Naturally, we cannot monitor the statistics of all countries, but we can compare with the statistics of the previous period of the Republic of Armenia and we can say that politicians are not killed in the entrances, people are not shot at, elections are not falsified, they are not part of the share of this or that business, Yerablur plots are not privatized.

As for international statistics, we follow the reports of international organizations that have been recording Armenia's progress in the field of democracy for five years. And today, during the final speech of the budget discussion, I have referred to our problems in the field of justice, but I also cannot help but emphasize that huge reforms have been implemented and I have no doubt that we will also achieve our ideal of an independent judicial system, fairness and justice," said the Prime Minister.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) As many as 65 illegal telecom setups, that allowed international calls with spoofed Indian numbers, were busted during FY2023-24, Parliament was informed on Wednesday.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed the International Long Distance Operators (ILDOs) to drop incoming calls with no Calling Line Identification (CLI), or improper CLI or having certain prefixes.

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Moreover, DoT is blocking the apps allowing the origination of spoofed calls. Such apps are also blocked at Google Play Store and iOS App Store, Minister of State for Communications, Devusinh Chauhan said in a written reply in Lok Sabha.

DoT in coordination with Law Enforcement Agencies and Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) is unearthing illegal telecom setups that allow international calls with spoofed Indian numbers.

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Such illegal setups are used to bypass the ILDOs for anti-national activities, cyber-crimes and financial frauds, Chauhan said.

"So far, 65 such illegal setups during FY 2023-24, 62 in FY 2022-23 and 35 in FY 2021-2022 have been unearthed.

"Further, to prevent the incoming international calls with spoofed Indian landline numbers, DoT has directed the ILDO to drop international incoming calls with no CLI, improper CLI or having CLI prefixes such as +11, 011 & 11, +911 to +915," he informed.

DoT has launched citizen-centric Sanchar Saathi portal, which facilitates the citizens to report international calls received with Indian CLI, and to check mobile connections taken in their name and report the mobile connections which are not taken by them.

"Telecom Service Providers are disconnecting such reported mobile connections after necessary subscriber reverification. Around 13.08 lakh such mobile connections have been disconnected," the minister said.

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New Delhi [India], December 6 (ANI): The 16th edition of the India-Germany Military Cooperation Subgroup (MCSG) meeting was conducted from December 5-6 in New Delhi, spanning two days, the Ministry of Defence said.

The meeting was co-chaired from the Indian side by Brigadier Vivek Narang, Deputy Assistant Chief of Integrated Staff IDC (A), HQ IDS, and Director, Department International Cooperation Armed Forces Office, Colonel (GS) Christian Schmidt, from the German side.

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The meeting was conducted in a friendly, warm, and cordial atmosphere.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the discussions focused on new initiatives under the ambit of existing bilateral defence cooperation mechanisms and further strengthening ongoing defence engagements.

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India-Germany Military Cooperation Subgroup (MCSG) is notably a forum established to boost defence cooperation between both nations through regular talks at the strategic and operational levels between the Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff, and the Department of International Cooperation Armed Forces. (ANI)

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New Delhi [India], December 6 (ANI): The 20th round of India-Myanmar Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) was held on Wednesday in New Delhi.

The two sides discussed a wide range of issues, which included the situation along the border and security, trade, commerce and connectivity, the Ministry of External Affairs said in an official release.

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The Indian delegation was led by Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra and the Myanmar delegation was led by the Deputy Foreign Minister of Myanmar, U Lwin Oo. During the meeting, the status of bilateral development projects in Myanmar and concerns related to transnational crimes were also discussed.

According to MEA, the Indian side reiterated its support for Myanmar's transition towards a federal democracy.

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The Indian side also expressed India's continued support of people-centric socio-economic developmental projects, including connectivity projects and projects under the Rakhine State Development Programme and Border Area Development Programme for the benefit of the people of Myanmar. (ANI)

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New Delhi [India], December 6 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held delegation-level talks with his Suriname counterpart Albert Ramdin on Wednesday here in New Delhi.

Suriname's Foreign Minister Albert R Ramdin landed on Tuesday in New Delhi with a warm welcome as he gears up to co-chair the 8th India-Suriname Joint Commission Meeting.

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The official visit, scheduled from December 5 to 7, holds promise for advancing historical ties between the two nations.

"FM Albert Ramdin of Suriname arrives to a warm welcome in New Delhi to co-chair the 8th India-Suriname Joint Commission Meeting. An opportunity to further advance India-Suriname historical ties," posted MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on X.

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The highlight of FM Ramdin's agenda is a crucial meeting with India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, at Hyderabad House on Wednesday. The discussions aim to strengthen diplomatic relations and explore avenues for enhanced bilateral cooperation.

The visit is strategically timed to deepen the bond between India and Suriname, reflecting the commitment of both nations to mutual growth and collaboration.

Ramdin's departure is scheduled for December 7, marking the conclusion of this significant diplomatic engagement.

India shares close, warm and friendly relations with Suriname with historical linkages dating back to 149 years. Soon after Suriname's Independence on November 25, 1975, India established diplomatic relations in 1976 and opened its Embassy in Paramaribo in 1977.

The Suriname Embassy, however, started functioning in New Delhi from March 2000, the Ministry of External Affairs said.

Suriname is a country with a huge Indian diaspora population. A coalition government led by a largely Indian-origin party assumed power in Suriname in July 2020. President of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi is a Person of Indian Origin (PIO). He was the chief guest at PBD 2021 held virtually on January 9, 2021. (ANI)

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Moscow [Russia], December 6 (ANI): Responding to fresh US sanctions against Moscow, Iran and Russia signed a declaration to overcome the curbs, Russian news agency TASS reported quoting Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Tuesday.

"We have just signed a declaration on ways and means to counter, mitigate and offset the negative consequences of unilateral coercive measures. Undoubtedly, this is an important step in increasing coordinated efforts by members of the global community to overcome illegal sanctions, which the US and its allies use as a substitute for diplomacy," Lavrov said when opening talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.

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He added that the talks will be used to exchange views on pressing bilateral and regional issues, TASS reported.

"We traditionally have an extensive agenda," the Russian Foreign minister said.

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Earlier, in September, the US imposed sanctions on 37 entities involved in expanding Russia's energy production and future export capacity and identified two related vessels as blocked property.

According to the US State Department, the designations included entities and individuals involved in the development of key energy projects and associated infrastructure, including Russia's Arctic LNG 2 liquified natural gas project.

It further included entities involved in the procurement of materials and advanced technology for future energy projects for which Russia has historically relied on foreign service companies' expertise and technology.

The US State Department designated individuals and entities to impose further costs in response to Russia's unprovoked war against Ukraine.

Along with the entities involved in Russia's Arctic LNG 2 liquified natural gas project, the state designated two Turkiye-based entities for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of persons whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant, according to the statement by the State Department.

The US also imposed sanctions on Russian banks and President Vladimir Putin. The sanctions are intended to damage Russia's economy and hold it accountable for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The sanctions targeted individuals, banks, businesses, monetary exchanges, bank transfers, exports, and imports. (ANI)

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El-Arish [Egypt], December 6 (ANI): Amid the fresh hostilities between Israel and Hamas, after a brief pause for the release of hostages, the United States announced an additional 21 million USD in aid to Gaza, CNN reported quoting US Aid Administrator Samantha Power on a trip to Egypt.

It reported that the aid will include support for the provision of essential hygiene and shelter supplies, food, and market-based assistance for more than 120,000 people, as well as psychosocial care and health services for the health system in Gaza, which US Aid described as "overwhelmed".

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CNN reported that the support will bolster an NGO-operated field hospital in Gaza that provides in-patient care

The US administrator's announcement for additional aid follows President Joe Biden's announcement of $100 million in humanitarian aid to Gaza on October 18.

Also Read | Wikipedia Wrapped: Here Are 2023's Most-Viewed Articles on the Internet's Encyclopedia.

Power visited El-Arish, Egypt, to meet with local officials and Egyptian and international humanitarian organizations, according to a US Aid press release, CNN reported.

At the time of her visit, the US Department of Defense (DOD) airlifted 36,000 pounds of food assistance and medical supplies from Amman, Jordan, to El-Arish, at USAID's request, the press release said.

The US military airlifted another 36,00 pounds of critical supplies to Gazans, Pentagon spokesperson Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said on Tuesday.

"At the request of USAID (United States Agency for International Development), the Department of Defense airlifted another 16.3 metric tons, or 36,000 pounds, of vital supplies to the people of Gaza today, providing more vitally needed medical supplies, warm clothing, and food and nutrition," Ryder said.

He said that as with previous airlifts, "the supplies were delivered via a US Air Force C-17 to Egypt to subsequently be transported via ground into Gaza and then distributed by UN agencies", CNN reported.

Ryder added that additional flights are expected "in the coming days." (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Islamabad [Pakistan], December 6 (ANI): A senior US Administration official dealing with refugees and migration, Julieta Valls Noyes, held a meeting with foreign secretary Cyrus Qazi and Pakistan's special representative for Afghanistan, Ambassador Asif Durrani, The Express Tribune reported on Tuesday.

According to the daily, the foreign office issued no press release, but Noyes shared on X with an image of her meeting with Ambassador Durrani with a terse statement stating, "Good to visit Pakistan Foreign Ministry and see special representative for Afghanistan Asif Durrani again today (Tuesday) for discussion on Afghan refugees, protection and resettlement."

Also Read | Israel-Palestine War: Hamas Drugged Hostages Before Releasing Them, Knesset Told.

The US official began her four-day trip to Pakistan with a series of meetings at the foreign office on Tuesday and is first of three Biden administration officials that are visiting Pakistan within the next few days.

The Express Tribune stated in its report that she will continue to meet other senior officials during her stay in Pakistan in what seems like an effort on the part of Washington to find a solution to those stranded Afghan individuals who are eligible for migration to the US.

Also Read | Wikipedia Wrapped: Here Are 2023's Most-Viewed Articles on the Internet's Encyclopedia.

Pakistan, earlier, launched a crackdown against Afghans living in the country illegally following the expiration of the deadline on October 31.

The Express Tribune reported that since the decision, the US has been in touch with Pakistan to ensure that Afghans who are eligible for immigration to the US are spared.

There are about 25,000 Afghans, who according to Washington, are in Pakistan and waiting for their immigration to the US.

Those Afghans worked for the US during its military campaign in Afghanistan. But after the US withdrawal, they have been stuck in Pakistan, waiting for the process of immigration to complete.

The US has been working with Pakistan to find a workable solution to prevent Afghan immigrants from being deported to their homeland, The Express Tribune reported.

There are also concerns that other than such Afghans, there are individuals such as musicians, artists, journalists and others who may be evicted. The US is keen that such vulnerable Afghans are not touched either.

Pakistani officials said their cases would be scrutinised accordingly, making it clear that in the first phase, those who don't have any legal status are being sent back.

US Special Representative for Afghanistan Tom West is due in Islamabad later this week to discuss the overall Afghan situation particularly the current state of the relationship between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban, the daily reported. (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, December 6: In the aftermath of its chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi's muder, the Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena has called for Jaipur 'bandh' on Wednesday demanding strict action against the assailants even as an intense manhunt has been launched in five states of Rajasthan, UP, Haryana, Punjab and MP. While the business organisations in Jaipur have announced a 'bandh', the supporters have also warned of a strike in Jaisalmer and Barmer.

On Tuesday, protests were held in Churu, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Rajsamand in protest against the crime. According to DGP Umesh Mishra, the state police have become active after the incident. Raids are being conducted at possible hideouts of miscreants, including Bikaner, and feedback sought from police of all the nearby states. Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi Shot Dead: Bike-Borne Criminals Murder National President of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena in Jaipur (Watch Videos).

The Rajasthan Police have shared the photos of the miscreants with its UP, Haryana, Punjab and MP counterparts. However, they are yet to make a breakthrough in the case. ADG Crime Dinesh MN has been recalled from leave after the incident. He has been called to Jaipur.

A CID team has roped it for the probe. Jaipur Commissionerate Police, ATS, SOG and CID teams have also launched a manhunt for the accused. Habitual criminals are being interrogated with photographs of the miscreants. Police are also interrogating three criminals who murdered Raju Theth in Bikaner jail and one criminal in Jaipur jail.

A team from Jaipur is busy interrogating the criminals lodged in the jails of UP and Haryana who have committed crimes in Rajasthan in the past. Police are also interrogating the henchmen of Rohit Godara lodged in different jails of Rajasthan. They are sure of getting some clues about these miscreants from the jail.

Besides, criminals jailed on charges of murder, extortion, and threats are also being interrogated about these shooters. On Tuesday, three miscreants opened fire on Gogamedi, and escaped. He was rushed to Metro Mass Hospital, where doctors declared him dead. Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi Shot Dead in Jaipur: Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena President Murder Sparks Protests Across Rajasthan (Watch Videos).

Guard Ajit Singh, who was present with Gogamedi, was seriously injured in the incident. Naveen Shekhawat, the young man who took him to Gogamedi's house, also died in the firing by the miscreants. After the crime, gangster Rohit Godara claimed the responsibility of the murder in a social media post.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 06, 2023 11:26 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Deshmukh said NCP will raise the issue of pending compensation to farmers, who had suffered crop losses due to unseasonal rains in the past, and demand higher minimum support price (MSP) for cotton and soybean. A party delegation will meet government authorities with the demands, he said.
TopTier Trader, the Miami-based prop firm, is thrilled to announce its strategic expansion into the Latin American market. TopTier Trader, renowned for its commitment to empowering traders globally, is extending its services to the Latin American region. Led by veteran trader Cue Banks and TopTier's head of Spanish Expansion, Andres Valdes, the company is shifting gears and is quickly gaining traction within the growing Latin American community. This expansion is not just about providing funding opportunities; it's about offering an array of resources to enrich the trading experience for Spanish-speaking traders.

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In a statement regarding this expansion, Dave Guttman, the CEO of TopTier Trader, emphasized, "Our entry into the Latin American market is a testament to our commitment to fostering financial inclusion and providing comprehensive support for traders worldwide. We look forward to sharing our expertise, resources, and funding opportunities with the thriving trading community in Latin America."

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About TopTier Trader: TopTier Trader is a proprietary trading firm dedicated to empowering traders worldwide. Specializing in virtual funding solutions, education, and support, TopTier Trader aims to make the financial markets accessible and profitable for traders of all levels. With a presence in over 50 countries, TopTier Trader stands as a leader in the prop firm industry.
The U.S. continues to engage with Azerbaijan to urge them to seek a durable peace with Armenia, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller has said.

December 6, 2023, 09:37 U.S. urges Azerbaijan to seek durable peace with Armenia

STEPANAKERT, DECEMBER 6, ARTSAKHPRESS: Speaking at a press briefing, Miller said that Assistant Secretary of State James OBriens upcoming trip to Azerbaijan doesnt mean that the U.S. is backpedaling from its policy that, as OBrien himself said earlier in November nothing will be normal with Azerbaijan after the events of September 19 until we see progress on the peace track.

No, not at all, Miller said when asked whether OBriens trip is a departure from newly announced policy. We never said that were not going to continue to engage with Azerbaijan. That would be against our interests as the United States of America. We think it would be against the interests of peace and security in the region for us to just drop all of our diplomatic engagements with Azerbaijan. We continue to engage directly with both Azerbaijan and Armenia to make clear  for example, in the case of Azerbaijan  where we have concerns. Weve been concerned with the recent trend of detaining journalists. We continue to urge them to respect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all, something that Ive spoken to from this podium in the past. And we also continue to engage with them to urge them to seek a durable peace with Armenia, and thats something that will continue to be the focus of our diplomatic engagements.

Miller added that human rights is always on the table for the United States of America when they have these sorts of diplomatic engagements.
"It's over," said Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville, releasing his blockade on military promotions that began last February. The Republican senator had been blocking promotions and crippling military operations due to the lack of leadership across the various branches of the US military.

As Tuberville blocked hundreds of promotions, he left the Pentagon struggling to operate as the remaining heads lacked the authority to hire staff or occupy their offices as these positions needed senate confirmations. This resulted in intense criticism not just from the military and Democrats, but also from his fellow Republicans, including Sen. Lindsey Graham.

Yahoo! News reported that he was also criticized for his actions from his own home state of Alabama. A poll showed that 55% of people said he was hurting national security with his blockading of military promotions. Now, however, he finally relented after all the pressure to have him release his stranglehold on the military.

"It was pretty much a draw. I mean, they didn't get what they wanted, we didn't get what we wanted. [...] And so, just unfortunate the American people didn't get a voice," he said when asked about the results of his controversial blockade.

Tuberville started his blockade back in February as a protest against allowing abortions for military personnel. He claimed it was for the people but his actions were deeply unpopular and placed the US military in danger and woefully understaffed.

Hundreds of Military Personnel Promoted After Tommy Tuberville Lifted His Blockade

As soon as the Alabama Republican lifted his blockade, the Senate quickly approved hundreds of much-needed military promotions that have been stalled as a result of Tuberville's actions.

READ MORE: Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville Under Fire for Demanding To Have More White Nationalists in Military

In a single stroke, the US Senate approved around 425 military promotions immediately after the Alabama senator let his military stranglehold go.

President Joe Biden sounded off shortly after the confirmations, according to the Associated Press. He said that these hundreds of promotions were long overdue and should have never been held up in the first place.

"In the end, this was all pointless. Senator Tuberville, and the Republicans who stood with him, needlessly hurt hundreds of servicemembers and military families and threatened our national security - all to push a partisan agenda. I hope no one forgets what he did," the president said in a statement.

Why Did Tommy Tuberville Hurt the Military With His Promotion Blockade?

Tuberville waged an "unprecedented campaign to try to change Pentagon abortion policy by holding up hundreds of military nominations and promotions," according to the Associated Press. This forced less-experienced leaders of the military into some of the top jobs, therefore sparking concerns about military readiness.

The vote on military promotions was tied up for months as the military lacked proper leadership at the time. Promotions were needed to fill spots left by military leaders who retired or were also promoted to higher positions. However, as Tuberville rejected every single nomination in protest of abortion, the military became more and more vulnerable thanks to the lack of leadership.

READ MORE: Lauren Boebert Sex Scandal: MAGA Republican Says She Broke Up With Man She Fondled Inside a Denver Theater

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Sen. Tommy Tuberville says he will lift blocking of military promotions - MSNBC
Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro's obsession with annexing the Essequibo region of Guyana has led to a referendum on declaring it as part of the country's territory, leading to a referendum that passed in favor of the government. However, the turnout was lackluster as fears of a regional conflict stirred in South America.

The Venezuelan government under the Maduro administration had been promoting the referendum for weeks, with nobody daring to challenge it as the government has been infamous for cracking down on dissent. Despite this, the country's National Electoral Council revealed that only 10.5 million voters participated. This is barely half of the number of voters eligible to participate in the referendum.

The government reportedly expected long lines to form, much like what happened in the recent Venezuela opposition primary election. However, these long lines, expected every time Venezuelans vote, did not occur.

"Everything they said is a lie because I passed by several centers and everything was always empty. I don't know where they got that number of people who supposedly voted for the Essequibo," a resident in Caracas named Jose Luis Cova told the Associated Press.

The vote came even after the UN told Venezuela not to take any actions in claiming Essequibo. Venezuela rejected the UN High Court's jurisdiction and proceeded with the referendum anyway.

Guyana on Edge After Venezuela Referendum

With the referendum going in Maduro's favor, it is still unclear how the Venezuelan government might act to enforce the results of the vote. Even so, many in South America are anxious as Brazil has beefed up security in its borders while Guyana has sent out its military to the region to deny any Venezuelan incursion.

READ MORE: Guyana Pirates Trial: Court Sentences 2 Pirates to Death Over Fishermen's Deaths

Both countries have beefed up their military presence along the border with some posturing and saber-rattling, according to CNN. This has left many residents, particularly indigenous peoples, on edge as war might break out between the two South American neighbors.

"The longstanding row over the border between Guyana and Venezuela has risen to a level of unprecedented tension in the relations between our countries," wrote Guyanese Foreign Minister Robert Persaud.

Even if Venezuela chooses not to implement the referendum, it could still complicate matters in the region as both countries will be on edge, especially near their respective borders.

How the Guyana Vs. Venezuela Territorial Conflict Began

Essequibo is larger than the area of Greece as it has 160,000 square kilometers of land and makes up the western two-thirds of Guyana. It became part of the country after an international arbitration panel decided it in 1899 and has since been part of the country even though it gained independence from the British Empire in the 1960s.

However, according to VOA News, Venezuela rejected this ruling, even though Essequibo is recognized by the entire international community as Guyanese territory. The claim is mostly based on the fact that Essequibo and Venezuela were both administered by Spain during the Spanish colonial era.

READ MORE: Venezuelan Migrants Score Big Win as Joe Biden Grants Legal Status To 450,000 Asylum Seekers

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Is Venezuela about to seize Guyana's oil-rich Essequibo territory? | DW News
In a dramatic turn of events, Panama entrepreneur and former Panama presidential candidate David Ochy faced the long arm of the law as he was apprehended in Costa Rica on Tuesday, according to Prensa Latina.

The joint operation, orchestrated by the Public Prosecutor's Office and the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ), targeted Ochy for alleged involvement in money laundering.

The unfolding events were broadcasted by Teletica, capturing the raid on Ochy's residence in Guapiles, Limon province.

Simultaneously, the OIJ executed two synchronized raids in La Selva de Guacimo and Batan de Matina, focusing on a recently acquired farm with a packing plant connected to Ochy's business dealings.

The arrest follows Ochy's evasion of legal proceedings in the New Business case, which implicated 21 individuals, including former President Ricardo Martinelli (2009-2014), where Ochy wielded electoral jurisdiction during the investigation.

Despite being implicated in the New Business case, the Panama entrepreneur managed to evade the legal process, refusing to appear in court even after the lifting of his immunity.

Subsequently, he became a fugitive from Panamanian justice, a status that has now caught up with him in Costa Rica.

READ NEXT: Manuel Rocha Calls America 'The Enemy'

David Ochy's Connection with Panamanian President Ricardo Martinelli

Ochy's arrest brings to light his intricate connections with former Panamanian President Ricardo Martinelli, who, in July, received a sentence of over a decade in prison for money laundering, Reuters reports.

David Ochy, central to a case linked to Martinelli, sought refuge as a presidential pre-candidate for Martinelli's Realizing Goals party, providing him immunity from trial in the Martinelli case until the summer of the previous year when that legal shield was removed.

According to Randall Zuniga, head of Costa Rica's judicial investigation unit, Ochy arrived in Costa Rica over three months ago.

In this short period, he engaged in what authorities deemed "suspicious investments" in the country's Caribbean region.

The charges against David Ochy include money laundering and the use of a fraudulent Costa Rican identity card.

The arrest unfolded early on Tuesday in the Caribbean canton of Pococi, approximately 70 kilometers (43.5 miles) northeast of Costa Rica's capital.

Carlo Diaz, heading Costa Rica's state attorney's office, indicated that Ochy could potentially face extradition to Panama.

However, he must first navigate the legal proceedings in Costa Rica and may even serve a prison sentence there.

David Ochy's Business Involvements

Ochy, a co-owner of Transcribe Trading, is under suspicion for allegedly participating in the laundering of public funds to facilitate former President Ricardo Martinelli's acquisition of Editora Panama America (Epasa), a case commonly referred to as the New Business case, per BNN.

This matter has been a focal point of controversy in Panamanian politics, revolving around accusations of public fund misuse by high-ranking officials.

Notably, during the June primary, Ochy maintained a low profile, refraining from active campaigning and vote-seeking efforts, resulting in an unsuccessful bid, Newsroom Panama noted.

However, in a surprising turn of events, in November, Martinelli nominated Ochy as a substitute deputy to the Central American Parliament (Parlacen).

The prosecution's case against David Ochy revolves around allegations that, through Transcaribe Trading Corporation (TCT), the company that, in August 2012, impeded the circulation of La Prensa and Mi Diario newspapers, he transferred funds to the basket account of New Business Services Ltd.

These funds, originally advances provided by the State in exchange for the renovation of the Arraijan-La Chorrera highway, were reportedly utilized for the acquisition of Editora Panama America shares in December 2010.

This transaction occurred during Martinelli's governorship, with the trial establishing Martinelli as the beneficiary of 60% of Epasa's shares.

READ MORE: Samuel Garcia Leaves 2024 Presidential Race

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Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Panama's Martinelli moved from jail to house arrest - From AP Archive
The highest court in Peru, the Constitutional Court, ruled on Tuesday that the country's 85-year-old former president, Alberto Fujimori, must be freed from prison. He was serving a 25-year sentence for crimes against humanity while serving as the president of Peru.

According to France 24, Fujimori was jailed back in 2009 over massacres committed by army death squads from 1991-1992 in what were supposed to be anti-terrorist operations. Around 25 people died in those operations which happened in the early years of his decade-long tenure as president.

Because of his advanced age, Fujimori had been suffering health problems while in prison. This included him being hospitalized back in February thanks to an irregular heartbeat.

The ruling reinstated a pardon previously given to him but was then revoked by the Supreme Court in 2019. That pardon was given for "humanitarian reasons" because of his age and various health problems.

The Constitutional Court reversed this decision and once again ordered his release in 2022. However, this was opposed by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, which urged Peru not to free him. The country agreed and he stayed in prison.

The ruling, which went down last Tuesday, cannot be appealed, which means that the former president must be released from prison.

Peru Courts Blocked Alberto Fujimori's Pardon Days Before Constitutional Court's Release Order

The issue of Fujimor's pardon has been a back-and-forth situation in Peru for years as the former president still has massive support within the country despite the heinous crimes that he was found guilty of.

Just days before the Constitutional Court ordered his release, courts blocked the imprisoned former leader's pardon. On that same day, the courts also ruled that his daughter and political heir, Keiko Fujimori, must face trial for her money laundering charges, dealing a blow to what was once Peru's most powerful family.

READ MORE: Peru: President Dina Boluarte Responsible for Deaths of Protesters, Says Top Prosecutor

Keiko Fujimori had been a political powerhouse in Peru, serving in Congress but had failed to win the presidency thrice. Her last defeat was against the now-deposed Pedro Castillo back in 2021.

Despite her father being freed, she will stand on trial for the Odebrecht bribery scandal which she was caught up in. According to Reuters, she is accused of receiving illegal campaign contributions from the infamous Brazilian construction company, which was known to bribe dozens of Peruvian politicians, including former President Alejandro Toledo, who is also serving time for his involvement in the scandal. He is imprisoned alongside Alberto Fujimori and Pedro Castillo.

Former Peru President Alberto Fujimori

Alberto Fujimori was elected president of Peru in 1990. However, in 1992, he dissolved Congress so he can stay in power longer, as his tenure lasted until 2000 when he fled the country to Japan where he resigned.

During the early years of his tenure, he was dealing with the Shining Path communist rebels. However, the way he dealt with them was brutal as he sent death squads to deal with the situation, leading to various human rights abuses. He was also accused of corruption during his long rule as president.

According to the Associated Press, he was granted pardon by then-President Pablo Kuczynsk, but this was soon annulled thanks to the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. This status of him being pardoned and still being imprisoned then began since 2017 after the pardon was implemented.

READ MORE: Peru: Stealing Cell Phones Might Land You Life in Prison

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Alberto Fujimori: Dictator of Peru - BadEmpanada
In a devastating incident, a six-year-old Oregon boy lost his life, and a woman sustained injuries during a mauling attack by two dogs in a Portland residence, authorities reported, according to CBS News.

Responding to a distress call regarding a fatal dog attack on Tuesday morning, the Portland Police swiftly intervened, only to discover that the assailants were identified as Great Dane-Mastiff mixes.

Upon reaching the scene, law enforcement officers found the Oregon boy lifeless and the injured woman believed to be the owner of the dogs, receiving medical attention for minor injuries at a local hospital, as detailed in a police statement.

A subsequent investigation unveiled that the woman with injuries was the owner of the dogs, and the deceased child was the grandson of her friend.

READ NEXT: Florida Woman Dead After Scary Dog Attack

The Fatal Dog Attack

Tragically, the young victim's grandmother had dropped him off at the dog owner's residence, who routinely facilitated his transportation to school, according to police statements, per KGW8.

Upon the Oregon boy's arrival on that fateful Tuesday morning, a harrowing scene unfolded as he opened the garage door, only to be viciously attacked by the dogs.

Despite the owner's valiant attempts to intervene, the boy succumbed to his injuries, leaving a community in shock just weeks before the holiday season.

Portland Police Bureau (PPB) spokesperson Mike Benner expressed the profound sorrow felt by the community, stating, "It's a little boy. He's 6. I speak for everyone at the bureau when I say my heart breaks for this little boy, for his family, and for his friends."

Benner went on to commend the owner's efforts to halt the attack, detailing the injuries she sustained in the process, primarily to her hands.

Describing the gravity of the situation, Benner noted that the owner even resorted to using a firearm in a desperate bid to save the young Oregon boy's life.

The formidable Great Dane-Mastiff mixes are now in the care of Multnomah County Animal Services, with the PPB's child abuse team leading the investigation, assisted by homicide detectives.

At this juncture, it remains uncertain whether the owner will face criminal charges.

Fatal Dog Attacks in the US

This tragic incident adds to a distressing series of fatal dog attacks across the United States. In January, fatal dog maulings claimed the lives of children in Louisiana and Idaho.

A Texas dog attack resulted in the death of a man in his 80s and injuries to three others in February, while a Pennsylvania woman succumbed to injuries inflicted by a neighbor's dog in March.

The list of grim occurrences continued in May with a fatal dog attack in Indiana that claimed the life of a woman and left an 8-year-old child injured.

Iowa also witnessed another heartbreaking incident in May where a baby lost their life, and a woman sustained severe injuries due to a dog attack.

These distressing events follow a pattern of fatal dog attacks, including a 6-year-old Florida boy killed on the Fourth of July and an Iowa mother enduring life-altering injuries after being attacked by three pit bulls, the NY Post reports.

READ MORE: Arlington County House Explodes

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: 6-year-old boy dead from dog attack in Northeast Portland - From KGW News
In a shocking turn of events, authorities in Arlington, Virginia, have identified James Yoo, a 56-year-old resident, as the suspect connected to the home explosion that transpired on Monday during a police search warrant execution, per CNN.

As investigators delve into the aftermath of the incident, they are scrutinizing "concerning" social media posts attributed to Yoo, whose presumed demise has been indicated by the discovery of human remains at the scene, according to Arlington County Police Chief Andy Penn.

During a press conference on Tuesday, Chief Penn revealed that the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will work to officially identify the deceased individual and ascertain the cause and manner of death.

Authorities are actively investigating the cause and origin of the explosion, assuring the public that there is no ongoing threat to the nearby community.

READ NEXT: Virginia: Arlington County House Explodes

Virginia Man Said His Neighbor Was Planning to Attack Him

James Yoo, the alleged perpetrator of the explosive incident, is now under intense scrutiny for his erratic and conspiratorial behavior.

Reports suggest that Yoo, in a series of rambling and, at times, incoherent LinkedIn posts, propagated conspiracy theories targeting government officials, law enforcement, media outlets, and even his neighbors.

The now-disabled LinkedIn account reportedly contained paranoid musings where the Virginia man accused his neighbors of being aliens, witches, and spies conspiring against him.

These posts, filled with negative sentiments towards the government and law enforcement, also featured claims that his neighbors had been spying on him for decades, according to The Messenger.

Yoo's YouTube channel, believed to be linked to him, hosted a dozen videos posted in the past month, many of which showcased screenshots of his LinkedIn ramblings.

The disturbing content escalated when Yoo accused his neighbor, along with his wife and young children, of being spies planning an attack on December 7, the anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

The Virginia Man, James Woo

Delving into Yoo's background, his LinkedIn profile identifies him as the former Head of Information and Physical Security for an international telecommunication company, The Hindustan Times reports.

However, his interactions with the FBI, characterized by complaints about alleged fraud against him, paint a different picture.

"I would characterize these communications as primary complaints about alleged frauds he believed were perpetrated against him," David Sundberg, FBI assistant director for Washington, said.

Residents in Yoo's vicinity labeled him a "loner," asserting that he believed locals were engaged in surveillance operations on his property, feeding information to U.S. authorities.

Virginia man James Yoo initiated legal action against family members in 2018, including his ex-wife Stephanie and Rochester General Hospital, alleging he was unlawfully detained.

The court, however, dismissed his claims as "frivolous."

Court documents reveal Yoo's belief in a vast conspiracy involving his sister, ex-wife, and the hospital, with connections drawn to the terrorism of September 11, 2001, and the investigation into the 2016 presidential election by Special Counsel Robert Mueller.

Yoo even attempted to contact Mueller to share his purported findings.

Furthermore, Yoo's tumultuous personal life unfolded in a divorce from Stephanie in March 2017, culminating in a court ruling that mandated him to pay $80,000 and buy out her share of their marital home for $150,000.

The same property now lies in ruins following the recent blast, and it appears the Virginia man and his ex-wife did not have any children.

READ MORE: 6-Year-Old Oregon Boy Fatally Attacked by Dogs

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Arlington VA house explosion: James Yoo identified as suspect, human remains found - From LiveNOW from FOX
The U.S. wants to make sure that it can help those in need around the world, including ethnic Armenians, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said.

December 6, 2023, 15:17 U.S. wants to make sure it can help those in need around the world, including ethnic Armenians  Blinken

STEPANAKERT, DECEMBER 6, ARTSAKHPRESS-ARMENPRESS: And then there are people in need around the world, throughout the world, whether it is ethnic Armenians, whether its Rohingya, whether its Sudanese  you name it, we want to make sure that America is there to help them, Blinken said at the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition 2023 Tribute Celebration.

He made the remarks in the context of ongoing debates in the U.S. Congress around additional funding for Ukraine and Israel, as well as various humanitarian goals.
A prison sentence was handed down this week for the gunman in a New Years Day 2018 shooting that left a Bethlehem man dead and gravely injured a second victim, authorities said.

Vyante Green, 28, of Allentown, was convicted by a jury Oct. 4 of third-degree murder and aggravated assault, both first-degree felonies.

He was sentenced Monday by Lehigh County Common Pleas Court Judge Robert L. Steinberg to between 30 and 60 years in state prison, Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martins office said in a news release Tuesday.

The case was previously tried in February 2020 and resulted in a conviction of first-degree murder and attempted homicide. Green was sentenced at that time to life in prison.

However, that conviction was later reversed on appeal by the Pennsylvania Superior Court, and a re-trial occurred on Oct. 2.

Allentown police were called to the shooting at 12:39 a.m. Jan. 1, 2018, at a home in the citys 1100 block of Turner Street.

During a New Years Eve party, Green was armed and during a dispute, shot and killed Kenyatta Eutsey, 23, and shot Demitri Joseph, causing serious injuries, Martins office stated in Tuesdays release. Joseph, age 29, still suffers from serious health issues.

Eutsey, of Bethlehem, was taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Salisbury Township, where he was pronounced dead of multiple gunshot wounds a little more than an hour into the New Year.

The case went to the grand jury, and Green was charged in November 2018.

Green testified during his first trial that he fired his gun after a man snatched his phone during the party, saying he thought Eutsey was reaching for a weapon. The party was so loud that people initially thought the gunshots were firecrackers set off to celebrate the New Year, prosecutors had said.

Martin commended the prosecution and investigation teams for the conviction. The case was investigated by Allentown police Detective Eric Stauffer and Lehigh County Detective Kevin Mriss, and prosecuted by Chief Deputy District Attorney Bethany S. Zampogna and Deputy District Attorney Nicolo S. Baratta.

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Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
A Pennsylvania State State trooper was injured on Tuesday night on Route 22 West in Lehigh County while attempting to aid a driver who flipped a vehicle while fleeing a traffic stop, police said.

The trooper with state police at Belfast suffered minor injuries when the overturned vehicle was struck by a tractor-trailer and spun into him, according to police.

The 19-year-old driver from Allentown also suffered minor injuries in the crash; he was charged with fleeing or attempting to elude police, a third-degree felony, and four summary charges including reckless and careless driving, police and court records say.

The incident happened around 10:51 p.m. near mile 323 in Hanover Township, police said

When the officer signaled for the driver of the Honda Accord to pull over, the driver instead began to flee at high speed onto the Fullerton Avenue off-ramp to avoid apprehension, state police said in a news release.

Failing to negotiate the turn on a wet road, the driver passed through the median and onto a berm where he struck a light pole and an embankment before flipping the car onto its drivers side, according to police reports.

When the vehicle finally came to a stop, it had settled between the Fullerton Avenue on-ramp and the right lane of Route 22 West, police said.

While the trooper attempted to aid the driver and secure an arrest, the overturned vehicle was struck by a tractor-trailer merging onto the road, police said.

The collision caused the overturned vehicle to spin clockwise, striking the trooper.

The driver was taken to Lehigh County Court Central Booking and released on $5,000 unsecured bail. Court records did not immediately name an attorney for the driver.

The tractor-trailer driver stopped and cooperated with police, according to state police spokesman Trooper Nathan Branosky. Pennsylvania has a Move Over Law that requires those approaching an emergency response area to safely merge into a lane that is further away from the stopped vehicle(s) or at least to pass by at no more than 20 mph below the speed limit and at a reasonable speed for safely passing. A 2020 state law increased penalties for violations, to a $500 fine for first-time offenders and higher fines, drivers license points and a 90-day license suspension for repeat violations.

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Glenn Epps can be reached at gepps@lehighvalleylive.com or glenn_epps_on Twitter.
A 38-year-old Allentown man is headed from Lehigh County Jail to Norristown State Hospital after his attorney fought to get him out of solitary confinement.

The mans name is being withheld due to his mental health condition. He has charges pending against him after he was accused of breaking into a building on Sept. 11 at Resurrection Cemetery on North Krocks Road in Upper Macungie Township.

Attorney Ettore Ed Angelo says the mans mental health has suffered after spending three months in a jail cell by himself. Its inhumane to keep individuals who suffer from mental illness locked up without visits from family, Angelo said.
Four local hospitals participated in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey of maternity care hospitals, and most received a good grade.

All four hospitals that were part of the survey are Lehigh Valley Health Network locations, according to the results of the survey  Cedar Crest, Hazleton, Pocono and Schuylkill South Jackson Street. The first three all received a High Performing rating, while Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill South Jackson Street did not.

The survey measures C-section rates, newborn complication rates, exclusive breast milk feeding rates, early elective delivery rates, birthing-friendly practices, transparency on racial and ethnic disparities, and other factors, according to a release from U.S. News.

Hospitals that receive a High Performing designation as part of Best Hospitals for Maternity Care meet a high standard in caring for parents with uncomplicated pregnancies, said Jennifer Winston, health data scientist at U.S. News in the release. These hospitals have C-section rates that are 26% lower, and newborn complication rates that are 37% lower than unrecognized hospitals that participated in the survey.

The three LVHN hospitals that received a High Performing rating did so after not receiving the rating in each of the past two years, marking a significant improvement for the network.

One LVHN location also received a separate designation. In this years survey, U.S. News recognized hospitals that serve under-resourced communities that otherwise wouldnt have easily available maternity care. Lehigh Valley Hospital-Pocono was one of the just 73 locations in the survey that was highlighted as a Maternity Care Access Hospital.

Overall, the report surveyed 680 hospitals across the country, 311 of which received a High Performing rating. There were 43 Pennsylvania hospitals in the survey, 22 of which were designated as High Performing, the second-highest total among the states.

U.S. News did not include St. Lukes University Health Network in the list of surveyed hospitals this year after the network had two of its locations  St. Lukes University Hospital in Fountain Hill and St. Lukes Anderson Campus  receive High Performing ratings last year.

Survey results, as well as more information on the survey and its methodology, are available on U.S. News website.

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Connor Lagore may be reached at clagore@njadvancemedia.com.
A youth activist based in Newbridge has called for changes to be made in order to alleviate the mental health crisis facing many members of the Travelling Community.

18-year-old James Stokes, who previously announced that he intends to run in the local elections next year as a member of Sinn Fein, discussed the topic with Kildare FM Radio Station host Eoin Beatty on Monday, December 4 last.

Mr Beatty and Mr Stokes, the latter of whom is a member of the Travelling Community, brought up the recent documentary 'Patrick: A Young Traveller Lost', which concerned the late Patrick McDonagh, a 12-year-old member of the Travelling Community who died by suicide.

Patrick had suffered from extreme bullying prior to his death in relation to his identity as a Traveller, and President Michael D Higgins has said that the documentary should be seen in every household and school throughout Ireland.

When Mr Beatty asked Mr Stokes about the extent of the mental health crisis affecting Travellers, Mr Stokes replied: "It is shocking... I don't know if any of your listeners have had the chance to watch it (yet), but it talks about Patrick, and his mother and father came across in it so well.

"He (Patrick) goes to school, he does English, loves science... then one day, his mother makes him dinner, and nothing seems wrong, but they found out that he took his own life."

"It's shocking, but it's not surprising, and that's the problem with this," he added.

James Stokes. File photograph.

Mr Stokes continued: "Racism against Travellers is widely accepted: 85 per cent of people said that they wouldn't have a Traveller as a friend; over one in 10 Travellers take their own lives; these statistics shouldn't be surprising, given the evident racism towards Travellers."

When asked by Mr Beatty about his view on why the mental health crisis in the Travelling Community is so bad, Mr Stokes said: "As I hinted on there, there are obviously a few factors involved, but one of the main factors that I believe (is worsening the crisis) is the racism towards Travellers.

"You see the text messages that Patrick received from some people, people slagging him and being openly abusive towards him (over his Traveller identity)... what has Patrick done (to warrant the abuse)? What had this 12-year-old boy done?"

He continued: "Me, myself, I'm running for the local elections in Newbridge and I'm posting stuff on social media, even the abuse I get in my replies... now, it doesn't bother me, but that's not to say that the abuse wouldn't bother someone else."

"And then, the facilities for Travellers: Travellers have been let down in nearly every issue. The government has continued to let us (the Travelling Community) down.

"There is a lack of political will to support Travellers, and it's wrong."

When the subject of halting sites and caravan encampments was brought up by Mr Beatty, Mr Stokes said: "There is one in Kildare, my own grandad used to live there over sixty years ago, back when he was a child.

"But yeah, there's only the one in Kildare and from what I've heard from other Travellers, when they're trying to get Traveller-specific accommodation, County Councils will say 'don't tick that box, don't fill that out, because you won't have a hope (in securing the accommodation)."

"Those facilities are just not there for them," he added.

"WHAT DID PATRICK DO? WHAT DID THAT POOR BOY DO?"

Mr Beatty also asked Mr Stokes 'if Travellers all get tarred with the one brush, as there are a certain cohort out there who are givin Travellers a bad name?"

In response, Mr Stokes said: "Of course there are a percentage that would give Travellers a bad name, but there's bad people everywhere; I wouldn't blame you, Eoin, for something that someone else did downtown, you know?

"I was at a meeting last week  I work in a job where I help Traveller children overcome barriers to education  there's a number of reasons why they struggle to stay in education, but one of my main concerns is that they'll go on and get their education, even a degree, and do exactly what they've been told to do (by society), but when they put in their CV to get a job, they're refused.

"They feel as though, no matter what, there will always be a barrier."

Referring back to the late Patrick McDonagh, Mr Stokes said: "What did Patrick do? What did poor Patrick do, or even any other Traveller who had taken their own lives, what did they do to deserve it?"

Mr Beatty then asked Mr Stokes if there was stigma within the Travelling Community about coming forward to discuss their mental health issues, or if the help isn't there for them, Mr Stokes replied: "It's a mix of everything."

He also reiterated his view that the government have let down the Travelling Community for decades, and that there is 'a lack of political will' to help Travellers.

Lastly, Mr Stokes said that he would like to see the government implement a National Mental Health Strategy for members of the Travelling Community: "It's what's needed, and what has been promised for so long, so why are they (the government) holding off?

"There has to be action, and the time is now," he concluded.

The day after the interview, Mr Stokes attended a peaceful protest outside Dail Eireann, which called on the government to address the mental health crisis in Ireland.

He was accompanied at the event by his fellow Kildare-based Sinn Fein colleagues, Reada Cronin TD and Patricia Ryan TD.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can contact Samaritans Ireland (116123 or jo@samaritans.org) or you can visit pieta.ie (24/7 Free Crisis Helpline: 1800 247 247 or Text HELP to 51444).

For further information about the National Traveller Mental Health Service, please visit https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/primarycare/socialinclusion/travellers-and-roma/irish-travellers/the-national-traveller-mental-health-service/ or call 01 8721094 (Monday  Friday between the hours of 9AM  5PM, 4PM on Fridays)
The United States and Sweden on Tuesday signed a Defence Cooperation Agreement, the U.S. Department of State said, as the Nordic country strengthens military alliances while waiting for approval to join NATO, Reuters reported.

December 6, 2023, 16:21 U.S., Sweden sign Defence Cooperation Agreement

STEPANAKERT, DECEMBER 6, ARTSAKHPRESS: "Sweden is a strong, capable defense partner that champions NATO's values, and will further strengthen the Alliance once its NATO accession is completed," the State Department said in a written statement. "Sweden's membership will strengthen our collective defense and enhance our ability to respond to security challenges in the Euro-Atlantic area."

Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson said he was hopeful that accession would happen "as soon as possible", but would not give any estimate when Turkey and Hungary - the only two NATO members not to give Sweden the green light yet - would add their support.
Social media companies have explained their reaction to the Dublin riots that resulted in millions of euro worth of damage to public infrastructure.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin said in the aftermath of the riots that he was concerned at the rapid mobilisation of so many people via social media platforms.

Dublin-headquartered companies Meta, TikTok and Google appeared before the Oireachtas media committee to discuss disinformation, media literacy and the response to the disorder in Dublin city that made headlines internationally.

Several members of the committee criticised social media site X, formerly known as Twitter, for not appearing before the committee.

Sinn Fein TD Imelda Munster said during the committee that their non-attendance was partly because of ongoing legal proceedings and asked for clarity on what that referred to.

I dont think thats good enough, she said in relation to the suggestion of answering queries in writing or in a private session.

Fine Gael TD Ciaran Cannon encouraged X employees to drop an email to the owner of Twitter, tech billionaire Elon Musk, suggesting that he desist from commenting on affairs within Ireland, which he patently knows nothing about.

He added that he personally served to stoke up hatred and conflict in recent times here in Ireland and he should be deeply ashamed of those actions.

Dualta O Broin, head of public policy of Meta in Ireland, told the committee the company had taken significant steps to tackle false information, and had removed 1,000 pieces of misinformation from Facebook in the first half of this year.

He said they have partnered with 26 factcheckers across the EU, and that debunking labels have been applied to 1.1 million posts on Facebook originating in Ireland in the first half of this year.

Fianna Fail TD Christopher OSullivan raised the issue of a voicenote being shared on the Meta messaging app WhatsApp calling for immigrants to be killed, and asked if there was a failure to curb it spreading like wildfire.

Mr O Broin said that virality was identified as a significant problem for WhatsApp, and that messages could be shared with thousands upon thousands upon thousands of groups, and that some measures were taken to limit this.

But as it was an encrypted messaging service, it could not act on a post unless it was reported.

On WhatsApp, because it is a fundamentally different tech, it is end-to-end encrypted, in that case we cannot scan the content of the messages, so we cannot go in and scan what is actually happening in the messages the same way we can with posts on Facebook on public profiles. We rely on users reporting the content from WhatsApp in app and thats not just because of end-to-end encryption, thats because of EU law as well.

Mr O Broin said that Facebook got in contact with the gardai when the Dublin riots unfolded, and the purpose of that was to establish what is happening.

Law enforcement can then go through our portal to request certain actions in relation to accounts, in relation to particular types of content but the discussion at that stage wouldnt have been about removing content, he said.

He said that separate to that, a large team across the country ensured that decisions were being made quickly and accurately on the posts on its platforms.

Ryan Meade, Googles government affairs and public policy manager in Ireland, said the company was committed to fighting the spread of misinformation online.

He said that helping people sort facts from fiction has never been more important, something we saw most recently during the disturbing events in Dublin.

He said that both the knife attack that took place on Parnell Square East and the Dublin riots were monitored by Google to see if incitement to hatred or dangerous disinformation would be triggered.

I should say on the first day we didnt see our platforms being used in respect of those events, although our teams were monitoring it, and other proactive steps would have been, for example, locking down reviews and edits on Google Maps around the site of the incident, he said.

He said Google subsequently had discussions with Irelands new media regulator Coimisiun na Mean about the steps it was taking and continued to monitor events through the weekend.

Susan Moss, head of public policy for TikTok Ireland, said it activated its crisis management protocols to remove violating content and to prevent the spread of misinformation.

We activated our emergency factchecking procedure in collaboration with those factcheckers, we have a factchecking organisation here in Ireland and what they did is they were flagging content not just on TikTok, but horizon scanning across the internet and flagging to us these individual claims that they were seeing.

That then helped us to stop that content spreading on TikTok.

Ms Moss said that there were 25 individual claims or types of stories, giving the example of one that claimed the military was moving into OConnell Street.

She said that while a post is being checked whether it is accurate, it will not be recommended to other users.

She said that TikToks response was very fast moving and really confident.

She said that disinformation is not a new problem, but the internet provides a new avenue to an old challenge.

We treat disinformation with the utmost seriousness and we are committed to preventing its spread, while elevating authoritative information and investing in media literacy to help build resilience in our community.

On the elections next year, Mr O Broin said Meta recognise how significant the period ahead is particularly here in Ireland in the next two years.

In response to Sinn Fein Senator Fintan Warfields questioning on whether grassroots posts about Gaza were being censored, Mr O Broin said that the objective is to apply the policies fairly, but added it was a tricky balance to achieve.

Either the content or the behaviour can be violating, and the intention is to apply that fairly and equitably. It wouldnt make any sense if we were to take any other approach because then we would be accused of being partisan.

Asked about the use of @ symbols or misspelling words or hashtags to bypass systems, all representatives said their content moderators were well aware of this approach, with Googles Ollie Irwin stating that it was an old technique that goes back to spam days.
Chief Superintendent Aidan Glacken, Sligo-Leitrim Division, told the latest meeting of the Co Leitrim Joint Policing Committee (JPC) that a lot of work has been carried out by An Garda Siochana this year in relation to tackling organised crime and drugs in Co Leitrim.

Chief Supt Glacken revealed searches were carried in relation to 30 burglaries in Leitrim that took place this year and three gangs were discovered to be active in the county in the theft of high end tools.

He said that on February 28 last a number of premises in Dublin and Galway were searched in relation to a number of travelling criminal gangs which we believe were engaged in the wholescale theft of high end tools and we have identified three gangs who have been active in Leitrim with that investigation still underway.

In relation to burglaries, he said a number of searches were carried out in Dublin and Kildare on November 15 involving one particular gang who we suspect were involved in burglaries that took place in February and May this year and around 30 of those burglaries occurred in Leitrim.

He said that burglary figures are up 27% from 28 to 37 foe the year to date for 2023, in comparison to the same period last year.

Thefts from multi-purpose vehicles are down 44% from 10 this year to 18 last year while theft from other property is down 27% from 44 to 36.

Assault causing harm figures were also down going from 35 to 28 this year (a decrease of 25%) and minor assault incidents decreased by 9% from 58 to 53.

Public order offences are well down (a decrease of 59%) from 116 last year to 69 for 2023 while figures for the possession of drugs for sale or supply were down by six from 12 to five.

Chief Supt Glacken also added that there have been three fatal accidents in the county this year so far.

Operation Thor

Having observed an increase in burglaries back in September and October 2017, An Garda Siochana prepared an operational plan for a Winter Phase of Operation Thor, involving the undertaking of targeted enforcement and preventative activity, designed to prevent potential burglars from exploiting the reduced hours of daylight.

Chief Supt. Glacken said: It takes place from November to March every year and a young male in Leitrim was charged with 17 offences on November 8. These offences took place between May and August and that person is currently in prison.

The Chief Supt outlined other crime statistics to the meeting.

In relation to circuit court outcomes this year, a 43 year-old male who carried out a serious assault on another person in Carrick-on-Shannon in February, he said, that matter was adjourned for sentencing and another male pleaded guilty to harassment" with this case also adjourned for sentencing.

He also noted as part of the Joint Agency Task Force (JATF), that the Sligo-Leitrim Division conducted a number of operations along border counties on October 16, with a focus on rural crime and human trafficking.
The Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Senator Pippa Hackett, has announced that the closing date for the receipt of applications to the Organic Farming Scheme is being extended to Friday 15th December, and that applications will continue to be accepted up to this date.

The scheme supports the ambitions set out in Irelands Food Vision 2030 Strategy, contributes directly to the achievement of the objectives of Irelands 2023-2027 CAP Strategic Plan, and makes an important contribution to Irelands Climate Action Plan, which aims to see the area farmed organically reach 10% by 2030.



Minister Hackett said: The series of farm walks, webinars and demonstration events that have taken place across the country this year have generated significant interest from farmers in switching to organic farming.



To ensure maximum opportunity for those who are interested in applying during the current scheme window, I have decided to extend the closing date by a further week.



I have listened to farmers and their advisors on the need for this extension. I understand the pressure agricultural advisors are under and the need for time for farmers to make a fully informed decision about switching to organic farming.



The Minister continued: Farmers are the first ones to experience the impacts of climate change, and have always adapted their farming systems to meet whatever challenges they face.



I hope the extended closing date will give them time to fully consider the benefits of farming organically.



In a time of high input costs for farmers, the Organic Farming Scheme offers an opportunity for farm families to diversify, and I would really encourage farmers to consider availing of the high level of supports that my Department is providing for those switching to organic farming, she said.
Leitrims Sweeter the Tune project has been named a winner at the National Age Friendly Awards 2023. The National Age Friendly Awards 2023 took place on Thursday, November 30, with Leitrims entry scooping the Community Innovation Award.



The Sweeter the Tune Project was developed under the Creative Ireland Programme and funded through Creative Ireland's Creativity in Older Age fund. Leitrim County Council and Leitrim Development Company worked with established older Artists in the county - John McDwyer, Cathy Carmen and Charlie McGettigan and three Active Age Groups through the Leitrim Active Age Forum to deliver the programme.



The Active Age Groups, Annaduff ICA, Drumkeeran Friendship Club and Mohill Active Age Group, were matched with the Artists to work together to create three pieces of art. The project concluded with an exhibition of the work, which included a sculpture, a book titled Looking Back and a film.



The "Sweeter the Tune" project successfully demonstrated that the quality and depth of an artists work is enhanced with age. The central part of the project saw the artist and their group collaborate on a project where the creative exploration and practice of the group members was the priority.



This was facilitated by Jo Holmwood, Project Manager and supported by Alice Dixon, Leitrim County Council Creative Ireland Projects Manager, Anna McTiernan, Older Peoples Services Coordinator at Leitrim Development Company and Philip Delamere, Leitrim County Council Arts Officer.



In June 2023 Age Friendly Ireland invited applications from Local Authorities for the National Age Friendly Recognition Awards 2023. Leitrim County Council entered the Sweeter the Tune Project in the Age Friendly Community Innovation Category.



On Wednesday, October 10, the Judging Panel visited Leitrim to complete the Judging Process and meet with representatives of the Active Age Groups and the Artists that worked on the project in the Dock Arts Centre, Carrick-on-Shannon.



The Judges visiting Leitrim were Ms. Jackie Maguire, former Chief Executive of Leitrim and Meath County Councils, and Mr. Peter Hynes, former Chief Executive of Mayo County Council. Also in attendance was Ms. Sylvia McCarthy (Age Friendly Communications and Operations Manager).

Pictured: (L-R) Sinead Flynn (Leitrim County Council), Teresa Faughnan, Irene Redican, Cllr. Paddy ORourke, Angela Flynn, Anna McTiernan (Leitrim Development Company), Pat Tearall

Ms. Teresa Faughnan and Ms. Rosaleen Lynch represented the Annaduff ICA, Ms. Angela Flynn represented the Drumkeerin Friendship Club and Ms. Pat Tearall represented the Mohill Active Age Group.



The participants relayed their personal account and experience of working collaboratively with the Artists to deliver their projects. From 160 entries across 9 categories, the Sweeter the Tune were amongst the 27 entries that were shortlisted.



The National Age Friendly Awards Ceremony took place in Clayton Whites Hotel, Wexford on November 30 with Marty Morrissey as MC on the night.



Representatives from the Sweeter the Tune project were joined by 3 the other shortlisted projects competing for the Community Innovation Award; The Art of Living, Cork County Council, Beech Hill College Intergenerational Project Monaghan County Council and Age Friendly University Initiative Dublin City University.



The Sweeter the Tune Project proved victorious on the night and along with recognition for their meaningful work, received a unique piece of crystal.



Pictured: (L-R) Anna McTiernan (Leitrim Development Company), Pat Tearall, Irene Redican, Angela Flynn, Teresa Faughnan and Sinead Flynn (Leitrim County Council)

The aim of the Awards is to celebrate innovative and creative initiatives, implemented across the country which have made a real difference to the lives of older people in Ireland.



The awards were sponsored and presented by partners in Age Friendliness, including the Centre for Excellence in Universal Design at the NDA, Department of Transport, An Garda Siochana, Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage, Department of Rural & Community Development, Chambers Ireland, An Post and the HSE.



Congratulations to all involved in the project.
On Friday, December 08, the Breffni players will take to the stage their production of Gaslight by Patrick Hamilton at Island Theatre at 8pm.

Gaslight is a 1938 thriller play set in 1880s London, written by the British novelist and playwright Patrick Hamilton.

It was remade as a film of the same name in 1940  which many people will be familiar with.

Hamiltons play is a dark tale of a marriage based on deceit and trickery and a husband committed to driving his wife insane to steal from her.

The play is set in fog-bound London in 1880, at the upper-middle-class home of Jack Manningham and his wife, Bella.

Bellas story is about a woman slowly losing her grip on reality as her husband tries to convince her that she is insane. Help arrives in the form of retired detective Rough, who convinces Bella that all may not be what it seems.

Directed by Noel OCallaghan, Gaslight is bound to sell out fast, so it is best to book your tickets early.

The Breffni Players continue to celebrate their 80th year with a production of the psychological thriller Gaslight by Patrick Hamilton.

The play is bound to be another sell-out show for the ever-popular Breffni Players and is running from November 28 to December 01 at 8pm.

Tickets are 18.50/16.50(excl fees). More information and bookings, visit www.islandtheatre.ie.
Sipcam Oxon Strengthens Presence in Americas with Acquisition of New Industrial Asset in the United States





MILAN, Italy, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sipcam Oxon S.p.A. announced today that it has completed the acquisition of certain industrial and logistics assets from Odom Industries Inc. (Mississippi), through its U.S. affiliate Sipcam Agro USA Inc.

SIPCAM AGRO USA ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF ODOM INDUSTRIES PLANT Investment for Growth in USA and Canada

The acquisition strengthens Sipcam Oxon's presence in the United States, where the company has a distribution subsidiary, Sipcam Agro USA, with annual sales of over $100 million. The acquisition gives Sipcam Agro USA a full integration along the value chain, with its own formulation and logistic assets.

The transaction involved the acquisition of the industrial assets of the Shubuta (Mississippi) logistics center and the Waynesboro (Mississippi) production site, which is dedicated to the formulation of agrochemicals with a total workforce of approximately 140 people. The Waynesboro production site is equipped with various formulation technologies, primarily to produce herbicides.

"The acquisition of these assets from Odom Industries Inc. is an important milestone for our growth in the United States," said Nadia Gagliardini, President of Sipcam Oxon Group. "This transaction will allow us to consolidate our presence in the U.S. agrochemical, biostimulants and biorationals markets."

The acquisition of these industrial assets represents an important step in Sipcam Oxon's growth strategy in the United States. Thanks to the Group's strong technical and production skills, the company intends to become a leading contract manufacturer in the agrochemical sector, providing American customers with its innovative know-how and production capacity.

Sipcam Oxon S.p.A. is an independent Italian company founded in 1946. With consolidated revenues of ?720 million in 2022 and a workforce of around 1,000 employees worldwide, it is today a group active in the research, development, registration, production, and distribution of "off-patent" agrochemicals, biostimulants, biorationals, specialty fertilizers, chemical intermediates, and seeds.

The Sipcam Oxon Group produces, at the level of synthesis and formulation, in nine plants (Italy, Spain, Brazil, the United States, China, and Australia) and distributes directly in 29 countries through its subsidiaries and in over 50 countries through third-party distributors.

For more information about Sipcam Agro USA, visit www.sipcamagrousa.com.

SOURCE Sipcam Agro USA

6 december 2023 at 14:15

News published onand distributed by:
Nine infrastructure projects announced in Saskatchewan to strengthen and support communities





PHEASANT RUMP NAKOTA FIRST NATION, SK, Dec. 6, 2023 /CNW/ - Nine infrastructure projects in Saskatchewan will strengthen and support communities thanks to the combined investment of more than $13.5 million from the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan. Announced by Minister Sean Fraser and Minister Dan Vandal, and Saskatchewan Government Relations Minister Don McMorris, these projects will enhance access to recreational activities, promote reconciliation with Indigenous communities, ensure accessible and reliable water supply, and foster inclusive and sustainable communities for years to come.

One project will see Pheasant Rump Nakota First Nation build a 7,800-square-foot Indigenous Cultural Centre to promote the Nakota language and culture. Features include a rooftop patio and arbour connecting to Nakota lands, offering a safe and accessible space for community engagement with traditional knowledge, language, and culture.

Funding will also support the Village of Lipton expand the storage capacity of the existing lagoon to meet their growing needs and also eliminate excessive wastewater discharging. The work will see an approximately 36,800-cubic-metre storage cell built, along with transfer structure, piping, landscaping, and modifications to the discharge location.

The Valley Regional Park Authority is receiving funding to replace two unsafe, outdated seasonal buildings with a new two-story, energy-efficient facility. The existing Pro Shop will be moved and renovated to create a small gathering space and public washroom near the playpark, while the current deteriorating clubhouse will be demolished. The new facility will provide an extensive range of programs and services year-round and be accessible throughout.

Several other communities will see infrastructure improvements, including sewer and water treatment upgrades in Abbey, a lagoon expansion in Pangman, and water and wastewater improvements in Rockglen. Additionally, White Bear First Nation will build an all-ages spray park, and Pasqua First Nation will construct a new community centre.

Quotes

"Protecting livelihoods, homes, and the environment is the federal government's top priority. That is why I am proud to work with communities in Saskatchewan on projects that will strengthen and support them.. From stronger water and wastewater plants in the region to safe spaces to connect with cultural traditions, we will continue working to meet the needs of people across Saskatchewan."

The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

"Through collaboration with our Saskatchewan partners, we are committed to improving overall quality of life by providing reliable drinking water and enhancing recreational opportunities. This shared commitment ensures sustainable solutions for the well-being and prosperity for residents for years to come."

The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, PrairiesCan and CanNor

"Today's investment in infrastructure projects across Saskatchewan represents our dedication to sustainable development, cultural preservation, and community well-being. These enhancements will improve the quality of life for residents by improving access to water, promoting a sustainable future, and creating community spaces for learning and gathering."

The Honourable Don McMorris, Minister of Government Relations

"The Pheasant Rump Nakota Nation is appreciative of the support of the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan in providing safe dedicated space for the preservation, protection, and promotion of Nakoda traditional knowledge, language and culture. This investment will build upon the efforts of our Nation and neighbouring communities in upholding and honouring the inclusivity and diversity of people who choose to live, work, and raise their families in Treaty 4 territory and southeastern Saskatchewan. Acts of reconciliation come in many forms and small steps make for big benefits when it comes to revitalizing the hearts of communities big and small!"

Chief Ira McArthur, Pheasant Rhump Nakota First Nation

"We know that Lipton is a fantastic place to live and raise a family, and through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, we are making our village even better. This gives us the ability to expand our community housing, which will give people the option to build in a great community. Expanding the capacity of the lagoon and improving our environmental sustainability is an investment in the current and future residents of our community, and we are proud of the work we're doing with the support of the federal and provincial governments."

His Worship Ron Tomolak, Mayor of Lipton

"Through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, we're able to invest in the future of our regional park. We are excited to provide visitors with a new building and a safe, accessible multi-use facility to support the health and wellness of residents and visitors in our region. We look forward to providing new services and programs in the facility throughout the year, and we thank the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan for their support."

Colin Aebig, Chairperson of the Valley Regional Park Authority Board of Directors

Quick facts

The Government of Canada is investing $8,862,251 in these projects. The Government of Saskatchewan is investing $4,727,697 . Recipient communities are contributing $2,212,738 and are responsible for any additional costs.

is investing in these projects. The Government of is investing . Recipient communities are contributing and are responsible for any additional costs. The Government of Canada's funding comes from the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream and the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

funding comes from the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream and the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Infrastructure Program. The Community, Culture and Recreation Stream supports improvements to cultural infrastructure, recreational facility upgrades, and community infrastructure, such as local arenas, new community centres, and multi-use trails.

The Green Infrastructure Stream helps build greener communities by contributing to climate change preparedness, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting renewable technologies. Projects such as energy efficient buildings, improved water and wastewater treatment infrastructure are examples of how this stream supports a more sustainable future for Canadians.

Including today's announcement, 41 infrastructure projects or project bundles under the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream have been announced in Saskatchewan with a total federal contribution of more than $73.2 million and a total provincial contribution of nearly $42.8 million .

with a total federal contribution of more than and a total provincial contribution of nearly . Including today's announcement,145 infrastructure projects or project bundles under the Green Infrastructure Stream in Saskatchewan , with a total federal contribution of more than $339.2 million and a total provincial contribution of nearly $236.8 million .

, with a total federal contribution of more than and a total provincial contribution of nearly . Under the Investing in Canada Plan, the federal government is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada's rural and northern communities.

Plan, the federal government is investing more than over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and rural and northern communities. Infrastructure Canada helps address complex challenges Canadians face every day?ranging from the rapid growth of our cities to climate change and environmental threats to our water and land.

helps address complex challenges Canadians face every day?ranging from the rapid growth of our cities to climate change and environmental threats to our water and land. Federal funding is conditional on the signing of funding/contribution agreements.

Associated Links

Related products

Backgrounder: https://www.canada.ca/en/office-infrastructure/news/2023/12/backgrounder-nine-infrastructure-projects-announced-in-saskatchewan-to-strengthen-and-support-communities.html

Investing in Canada: Canada's Long-Term Infrastructure Plan

https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/icp-publication-pic-eng.html

Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream

https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/icp-pic-INFC-eng.html

Green Infrastructure Stream

https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/gi-iv-eng.html

Federal infrastructure investments in Saskatchewan

https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/community-infra-collectivite-eng.html

Strengthened Climate Plan

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/weather/climatechange/climate-plan/climate-plan-overview.html

Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn

Web: Infrastructure Canada

SOURCE Infrastructure Canada

6 december 2023 at 15:36

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba at NATO headquarters in Brussels on November 29, 2023. SAUL LOEB / AP

"We're [running] out of money  and [we are] nearly out of time." This statement, made on Monday, December 4, by US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, comes as no surprise to Volodymyr Zelensky. The Ukrainian president is aware of the alarmingly low level of ammunition and equipment available to his army, of which the United States has been a constant supplier since the Russian invasion.

This message had an internal target. The White House has decided to put pressure on representatives in Congress, as negotiations on a new aid package to Ukraine ground to a halt at the weekend. "A vote against supporting Ukraine is a vote to improve [Vladimir] Putin's strategic position," said Sullivan. "That's just an inescapable reality," he added.

On October 20, the White House asked Congress to adopt an ambitious aid package worth around $106 billion (98 billion) for Ukraine ($61 billion), Taiwan, Israel and to bolster border security with Mexico. This last point is intended as a political gesture to the Republican majority in the House of Representatives. Republicans feel that the Biden administration has not given enough attention to, or even denied, the immigration problem. By proposing $14 billion to reinforce border security, the White House hoped to facilitate passage of the text in its entirety. But one setback followed another.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Ukraine prepares for another brutal winter

The fall of Kevin McCarthy, the Republican speaker of the House of Representatives, provoked by extremist representatives in his own camp, caused an initial significant delay. Mike Johnson, his successor, had to manage an emergency: How to avoid a shutdown, i.e. a temporary halt in government activities due to financial constraints. This was managed thanks to a compromise with the Democrats, postponing the threat for two months. Contrary to what the White House had hoped for, Johnson decided to separate the issue of aid to Ukraine from that of aid to Israel.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes US avoids budget crisis, at the expense of Ukraine and Israel

Biden administration changes its line

But schedule changes have not changed the arithmetic. The Grand Old Party's (GOP) majority is very narrow. Its center of gravity has shifted to the far right and is looking to cut public spending and is tempted to disengage in the area of foreign policy.

In recent weeks, House Republicans have chosen to link aid to Ukraine and Israel to domestic policy issues: first, a drastic cut in funds for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), then a restrictive and repressive rewrite of asylum and immigration legislation. This is unacceptable for the Democrats, especially the progressive wing.

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Nigeriens, some carrying Russian flags, take part in a march in support of General Abdourahamane Tiani in Niamey, July 30, 2023. SAM MEDNICK / AP

As the last remaining French soldiers leave Niger, the first Russian officials are already being welcomed by Abdourahamane Tiani's junta. On Monday, December 4, the general who came to power in a coup four months ago received the Russian deputy defense minister, Colonel General Yunus-bek Yevkurov, with full honors in an unprecedented visit by a Russian official.

Just like the juntas in Mali and Burkina Faso, Niger's new masters have announced the "strengthening of defense cooperation" with Moscow. Although a protocol agreement has been signed, its content remains top secret according to a government adviser. Yevkurov also met with the defense minister, General Salifou Mody, who is seen as the junta's number two.

At the same time, Niger has broken ties with one of its most important Western partners. In a note sent to the European Union delegation in Niamey on Monday, it denounced the two agreements governing European support for Niger's defense and security forces. Eucap Sahel, the 130-strong civilian mission set up in 2012 to support the country's border security forces, and EUMPM, the military mission installed there in 2022 to help Nigerien soldiers fight terrorism, have been asked to pack up.

Another divorce

At the end of November, the Nigerien authorities put an end to one of the main pillars of European cooperation in Africa by repealing a law that penalized the illegal trafficking of migrants. "It was the EU itself that suspended its security cooperation with us after the coup. As they no longer want us, neither do we want them" the official quoted above said, "our alliances with the West have prevailed since colonization and have not brought us good fortune. We need to get rid of them and move closer to other countries."

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Macron ultimately orders military exit from Niger

The break with Europe represents another divorce after that with France, the ally of overthrown president Mohamed Bazoum, who is still being held by the ruling military. In August, the junta demanded the dismissal of French ambassador, Sylvain Itte and the withdrawal of the 1,500 French soldiers. In addition, on Tuesday, Niger, along with Mali, denounced the agreements signed in the 1960s and 1970s with Paris to exempt French individuals and companies based in these Sahelian countries from being taxed twice.

Faced with sanctions and admonitions directed at Europe, the contingent of 1,100 US troops in Niger is keeping a low profile in an attempt to maintain its foothold. On the eve of the Russian delegation's arrival in Niamey, US Ambassador Kathleen FitzGibbon, in the country since mid-August, presented the junta with her letters of credence, a further step towards formalizing her appointment.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes United States partially resumes military activities in Niger

Russia is nevertheless emerging as the new preferred partner. A power that did not colonize Africa and that trained many of the continent's soldiers after independence, Russia also offers lethal weapons without demanding human rights accountability in return. It is also providing planes, helicopters, weapons, and mercenaries from its private security group Wagner to Mali as well as enhanced security cooperation to Burkina Faso (notably through the training of military personnel), where it also pledges to build a civilian nuclear power plant and provide healthcare assistance. The offer is seductive for the juntas in Mali, Burkina Faso and now Niger, all three of which came to power promising to defeat the jihadist groups that have continued to plague their territory despite Western military support.

Alliance of Sahel States

Despite their differences, the three countries have chosen to strengthen their alliance. After Bamako a year ago, Niamey and Ouagadougou announced on December 1 their decision to leave the G5 Sahel group, a framework for political and military cooperation with Chad and Mauritania created with France's approval in 2014 to fight jihadist groups, on the grounds that the alliance served foreign interests. The countries created the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in September in the face of the threat of military intervention by other West African countries to dislodge the junta in Niger.

The new bloc is the focus of most of Moscow's diplomatic efforts on the continent in recent months. According to Flightradar24, a website specializing in air traffic monitoring, before landing in Niamey on December 3, the Russian military aircraft carrying General Yevkurov's official delegation made stopovers in Bamako and Ouagadougou. The Russian deputy defense minister had already paid a first visit to Burkina Faso in September and October.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Burkina Faso is strengthening its alliance with Russia

While the Burkinabe junta led by Captain Ibrahim Traore, who was guest of honor at the last Russia-Africa summit in St. Petersburg at the end of July, has not communicated on Yevkurov's latest stay, the government of Colonel Assimi Goita in Mali detailed its outlines on December 2. In Bamako, "important decisions were taken," the president's office noted on its Facebook page, referring to "the dispatch [...] in the next two weeks [...] of Russian experts in various sectors [energy, transport, telecommunications, mining]." The president's office also stressed Moscow's "satisfaction with the creation of the AES, which it sees as an ideal framework for cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Sahel states." At the end of a meeting of their three heads of diplomacy in Bamako between November 30 and December 1, the three countries expressed that their ambition for the Alliance of Sahel States was "to eventually achieve a federation."
The COP28 climate summit is underway in Dubai with phasing out fossil fuels, new funding for the energy transition, and loss and damage among the urgent issues  while campaigners warn that a crisis of mistrust threatens to divide countries at a crucial time.

Humanitarians head to the UN-backed summit in unprecedented numbers and under the long shadow of Gaza: Israels siege of the Palestinian territory will be front and centre, said Tasneem Essop, executive director of Climate Action Network International (CAN-I).

Levels of trust have not been doing well in these [climate] negotiations between the Global South and the Global North, and the war certainly will play into what is a growing divide, Essop said at a pre-summit press briefing.

Like major crises before it, the conflict also brings into sharp relief one major difficulty: The resources required to address climate change  political, social, and financial  are delivered through fragile and complex multilateral processes that are frequently diverted to other urgent and immediate concerns.

Some humanitarians travelling to COP28 have been so consumed by responding to the Israel-Gaza fallout that theyve had little chance to think of the task ahead in Dubai. Others, with more breathing space, have been preparing for months, hoping to make climate programming more conflict-sensitive and to secure more climate finance for fragile regions.

More humanitarians are expected in Dubai than at any previous COPs, reflecting the events growth outside the environmental movement  from specialist talks to one of the biggest global diplomatic gatherings of the year.

But this years backdrop is grim: Latest predictions suggest the world has only a 14% chance of limiting global warming to the relatively safe limit of 1.5C this century  even under the most optimistic scenarios.

As we get deeper into this [climate] crisis, these COPs become more relevant to work that we do, said David Nicholson, chief climate officer at humanitarian response NGO Mercy Corps. Its no longer about how to avoid this crisis, but how to manage the crisis.

And as the climate crisis pushes up the humanitarian agenda, some observers say its institutions face key strategic decisions around how best to respond and position themselves for a future set to be dominated by extreme weather events, and finite funding.

It's about human lives being lost as a result of the loss of finance, said Iskander Erzini Vernoit, director of the Imal Initiative for Climate & Development, a Morocco-based think tank. It's about whether the high-income countries, the historic polluters, fundamentally care. Its about how much value is accorded to the lives of folks in developing countries. This is very personal for many of us in the developing world.

While previous summits have seen similar issues discussed, the number of events in Dubai dedicated to humanitarian issues that intersect with climate  ranging from displacement to powering crisis response with renewable energy  indicate a strong effort to bring a humanitarian footprint to COP.

For the first time, a humanitarian hub run by the UNs emergency aid coordination arm, OCHA, and by the Inter-Agency Standing Committee  the highest-level humanitarian policy-setting forum  will see more than 40 events involving at least 20 organizations.

But the main COP28 attraction for many humanitarians is a thematic day  distinct from the official negotiations  dedicated to the intersection of climate with relief, recovery and peace on 3 December. The key moment, as exclusively reported by The New Humanitarian, will be the launch of a declaration by countries and institutions highlighting the need to tie climate funding to conflict, and an accompanying package of solutions.

Also on 3 December, the host United Arab Emirates will stocktake Early Warnings for All. This scheme was launched by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres last year, but is lagging in its goal to cover the planet with disaster warning systems by 2027.

Another event on anticipatory action, the donor-favoured shift to better predict and plan for crises, aims to launch a charter for collaboration, to capitalize on momentum on disaster risk financing, and to set out how institutions can put this ambition into practice, according to a UAE briefing document also obtained by The New Humanitarian.

Among the crucial issues prioritized by the Least Developed Countries group  a negotiating bloc of 46 climate-vulnerable nations  is progress on a fund for loss and damage to finance responses to the destruction caused by climate change. Long a contentious project, governments agreed to create a fund at COP27 in 2022, sparking a year of difficult talks culminating in a last-minute compromise deal forged by negotiators in early November.

In a major win for the UAEs incoming COP presidency, the fund received early approval today from COP28, along with a raft of pledges. Approval hadnt been expected until the end of the summit. Pledges included 125 million euros from the EU, and $100 million each from the UAE and Germany. Smaller donations were made by Britain (60 million) and Japan ($10 million). The United States pledged just $17.5 million.

This is a hard-fought historic agreement, said Avinash Persaud, one of the key negotiators. It shows recognition that climate loss and damage is not a distant risk but part of the lived reality of almost half of the worlds population, and that money is needed to reconstruct and rehabilitate if we are not to let the climate crisis reverse decades of development in mere moments.

However, concerns remain over the role of the World Bank as an interim host, a lack of funding obligations from higher-income countries, and the funds longer-term financial sustainability.

There are also fears among observers that the pledges  which critics said were far too low compared to need  could see money taken from budgets previously earmarked for other purposes.

I think none of these [possible pledges] are, genuinely new, said Vernoit. Some of these will just be taken out of existing adaptation finance budgets or development finance budgets.

As has become routine with COP negotiations, the big elephant in the room is climate finance, said Mercy Corps Nicholson.

A major reason the talks have become riven with mistrust is the failure of high-income countries to deliver $100 billion a year to the Global South  as promised in 2009  to help transition their economies to renewables and prepare for climate change.

There is this growing discontent  nowhere more marked than the totemic 100 billion commitment, said Vernoit. He added that there is still no proper evidence the target has been met, as claimed by Germany and Canada, who were tasked with chasing the money.

What climate finance has arrived at has often been in the form of loans, which increase national debt burdens, or development aid, which is supposed to be separate from climate finance, according to the 2015 Paris Agreement that sets the ground rules and current global targets for climate action.

Climate finance has also been heavily skewed toward projects focused on mitigation  reducing emissions  rather than adaptation, which is focused on adjusting to climate risks. Mitigation projects often offer a return on investment, while adaptation projects tend to require grant financing.

For many observers, theres a crisis of trust around climate finance. Theres a lot of concern among developing countries about the solidarity that developed countries have for folks in the developing world, and also the emergence of the political far-right that wants to cut international aid, said Vernoit.

In early November, the UN Environment Programmes flagship Adaptation Gap report starkly warned that adaptation financing is falling far short of what is needed. And the bigger the deficit, it cautioned, the more widespread climate-related loss and damage is expected to be in the future. Adaptation funding is also needed to pay for the conflict-sensitive climate programming the UAE has been promoting.  The New Humanitarian
US President Joe Biden called on Tuesday, December 5, for global condemnation of what he said was "horrific" sexual violence by Hamas during the October 7 attacks on Israel. Biden's comments come after campaigners in Israel have derided what they see as a muted international response to gender-based violence during the attack.

"The world can't just look away at what's going on," Biden said at a campaign event in Boston. "It's on all of us  government, international organizations, civil society and businesses  to forcefully condemn the sexual violence of Hamas terrorists without equivocation." Biden said there had been reports that Hamas "used rape to terrorize women and girls" during the attacks last month, in which Israel says 1,200 people were killed.

"Over the past few weeks, survivors and witnesses of the attacks have shared the horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty," including rape, mutilation and the desecration of bodies, he said. "Hamas terrorists inflicting as much pain and suffering on women and girls as possible and then murdering them  It is appalling."

In response to the Hamas attack, Israel vowed to destroy the group and has carried out air strikes and a ground offensive that have killed more than 16,200 people, mostly women and children, according to Gaza's Hamas-run government.

Israeli women and legal activists have accused international rights groups of maintaining a conspiracy of silence over alleged rapes and other sexual crimes during the October 7 attacks. The UN secretary-general and UN Women issued statements on the allegations only last week, despite Israeli activists sending letters to UN agencies shortly after the attacks.

'More than 1,500 shocking and difficult testimonies'

Campaigners say the responses were minimal, leaving them deeply frustrated and accusing the global human rights community of betrayal. In Israel, senior police officer Shelly Harush told lawmakers last week that investigators had collected "more than 1,500 shocking and difficult testimonies" from witnesses, medics and pathologists. A US State Department spokesman said on Monday that Hamas likely held back on freeing female hostages because it did not want the women to speak publicly about sexual violence.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Israel-Hamas war: Hostages share initial accounts of their captivity

Hamas said on Monday that the allegations of sexual assault were part of "Zionist campaigns which promote unfounded lies and allegations to demonize the Palestinian resistance." Biden meanwhile called for Hamas to release female hostages it is still holding in Gaza, saying the group's refusal to free them had led to the breakdown of a truce with Israel.

Biden said that Hamas had "refused to let go" a number of women aged between 20 and 39 under the deal brokered by Qatar between Israel and the Palestinian group. "These women and everyone still being held hostage by Hamas need to be returned to their families immediately. We're not going to stop until we bring every one of them home and it's going to be a long process," he said.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Gaza's Shujaiya district obliterated by Israeli strikes
LIMERICKS TUS Gaelic Grounds is set to host a throwback music festival in summer 2024.

The Big Day Out, 90s vs 00s, is coming to the outdoor Limerick city venue next August 31, 2024. Tickets are now available to purchase on Ticketmaster.

A star-studded lineup has been announced, with headline acts including FIVE and D:Ream, as well as Cascada and Swedish DJ, Basshunter.

The throwback party of the summer will be hosted by Mark McCabe, who will be performing his iconic song Maniac 2000 and playing some of the largest floor fillers of the 90s and 00s!

From the 90s, FIVE will be live on stage performing hits like Keep on Movin and Slam Dunk (the Funk), while D:REAM Live will be keeping the party going with their hits Things can only get better and UR The Best Thing.

After nearly 20 years of filling dance floors across the world with hits like Everytime We Touch and Evacuate the Dancefloor, dance sensations of the 00s Cascada will be performing some of the worlds best party anthems, while Swedish DJ and producer Basshunter will be pumping out his hits like Now Youre Gone and All I Ever Wanted.

With over five billion streams, 20 UK and Ireland No.1s and some of the biggest dancefloor hits in the world between them, these acts are paramount of the 1990s and 2000s dance music eras.

While the TUS Gaelic Grounds on the Ennis Road is typically home of Limerick GAA, the Big Day Out 90s vs 00s will be one of a few events in history to bring music to the stadium.

The Wolfe Tones previously headlined a gig last August, which saw other acts such as George Murphy & The Rising Sons, Michael Maloney and Cailini Lua also feature on the night.

Following the success of the Wolfe Tones show last year, Gaelic Sounds, an Irish folk music festival is also coming in 2024, to the TUS Gaelic Grounds as well.

A stellar lineup of acts have been announced, including George Murphy & Rising Sons, All Folkd Up, The Highstool Prophets, Fieldsy & Guest and headline act The Whistlin Donkeys.
A LUNCHTIME protest took place outside hospitals in Limerick this Wednesday.

More than 60 clerical and administration workers went to the gate of University Hospital Limerick in Dooradoyle, while a demonstration was also held outside St Joseph's Hospital at Mulgrave Street in the city centre.

Further action will take place at Ennis and Nenagh hospitals this Thursday.

The staff, who are members of the Forsa trade union, are continuing an ongoing campaign in protest at a recruitment freeze on certain posts within the HSE.

Forsa says the unilateral hiring pause is a breach of its collective agreements with the HSE.

Members voted overwhelmingly in support of the industrial action in a ballot earlier this year.

It was suspended for a number of weeks in the autumn to allow for engagement with management, but a breakdown in those discussions in early October led to the resumption of the campaign.

Local Forsa representative Seamus Hourigan said: "In recent weeks, HSE has halted all recruitment as the health service enters the challenging mid-winter period. At this time, the health service needs to be fully staffed not understaffed. Forsa's position is that clerical and admin staff in the HSE are not responsible for budget overrun."

"As we enter the mid-winter season, many posts remain unfilled which will mean pressure building up at points of delivery throughout our health service. The HSE must fulfil vital positions now before health services are irreversibly affected," he added.

In a statement, the HSE said it regrets the industrial action.

"Throughout the strike action we will continue to conduct risk assessments to monitor any likely impacts to services. Derogations will be sought through our dialogue with Forsa, to ensure the protection of services, and to ensure that there is no risk to patients or emergencies throughout this dispute," they added.

On the staffing pause, a health service spokesperson said: "The government has made it clear that we must not recruit beyond our agreed target. Conscious of this and of the pace of recruitment this year, in recent months we put in place controls in relation to the recruitment of management and administration staff."
STUDENTS from schools across Limerick have been told that climate change is making the work of the Fairtrade organisation more important than ever.

The statement came as pupils visited Limerick City and County Council Headquarters at Merchants Quay to promote the Fairtrade message and to help celebrate Fairtrade Limericks 18th birthday.

As part of the awareness programme, the students created Christmas cards centred on the Fairtrade message of promoting fair trading practices between Ireland and developing countries.

Cards were created by pupils from schools across the city and county aged from five to 18, illustrating what Fairtrade means to them.

Addressing the pupils, Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Gerald Mitchell said: Choosing Fairtrade means that you care how the product was produced, who produced it and what benefit they get. By choosing to support Fairtrade, you can add your voice to demands for a trade system that puts people, not profit, at the heart of the transaction.

Our voices become louder when we speak together. It means taking a look behind the brands, the messages, and get to the real story behind the product. That is what Fairtrade is about! There are over 1.7 million producers, farmers and workers spread across more than 75 countries in the world participating in Fairtrade with sales in 2017 reaching 9.2 billion US Dollars.

The gathering, which took place in City Hall, also marked the 18th anniversary of Limerick as a Fairtrade city.
New Delhi: Google on Wednesday announced its new foundational artificial intelligence (AI) model, Gemini, replacing its Pathways Language Model (PaLM) that so far powered all of its generative AI applications and offerings.

The new offering will come in three sizesNano, Pro and Ultraand debuted through Googles AI chatbot, Bard, in English across 170 countries including India.

However, while claiming that the new AI model exceeds state-of-the-art" AI models, Google executives did not reveal the size of the model in terms of the number of data parameters, or how it compares with OpenAIs Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT)-4 model that underpins the latest versions of ChatGPT, at a media roundtable ahead of the announcement.

Eli Collins, vice-president of product at Google DeepMind, said Gemini is more efficient" than previous AI models developed by Google.

However, while Google said Gemini outperforms OpenAIs GPT-3.5 during the roundtable, they did not offer a reference as to whether the model would outperform GPT-4 as well.

Gemini Nano will be the smallest, lightest version of the AI model, and will be used in localized applications.

A version of Gemini Nano was piloted Wednesday through Googles newest smartphone, Pixel 8 Pro, and is also available in India. Bard, will be powered by Gemini Pro, but will support only English. Support for other languages will be expanded subsequently.

Other products such as Search, Ads and Chrome will continue to use PaLM for the time being, and be switched to Gemini eventually. Google also said a new version of its Bard chatbotBard Advan-cedwill also be launched early next year", and use the Gemini Ultra model.

In a blog post, Demis Hassabis, CEO Deepmind, Googles AI research division, said the company is already experimenting with Gemini underneath the Google Search Generative Experience (SGE), for which the company introduced Indic language support in August. Hassabis said Gemini has reduced latency of search results by 40%" as compared with PaLM-powered SGE outputs.

In the press briefing, Collins said the Gemini model was built to be natively multi-modalthereby understanding" text, images and audio as input and output methods by default. The new AI model is also trained to natively address hallucinations and issues of biasfactors that have plagued generative AI applications ever since OpenAIs ChatGPT brought the generative AI subset into the limelight.

Calling it our most capable and general model yet," Sundar Pichai, chief executive of Google and its parent firm Alphabet, added, These are the first models of the Gemini era and the first realization of the vision we had when we formed Google DeepMind earlier this year. This new era of models represents one of the biggest science and engineering efforts weve undertaken as a company."

Google claimed that Geminis overall performance exceeds current state-of-the-art results on 30 of the 32 widely-used academic benchmarks used in LLM R&D."

Industry-wide standards, however, continue to hold OpenAIs Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT)-4 model as the industry-leading standard. The latter, which powers enterprise offerings of GPT-4 as well as ChatGPT, is largely seen as the most popular industry standard AI model in the market until date. Meta, too, unveiled its latest generation AI model, Llama-2, in July this year. Microsoft is a significant investor in OpenAI, and has also partnered Meta for Llama-2, thereby making it a key strategic rival to Google in the generative AI race.

The launch of Gemini comes as industry stakeholders expect generative AI to mature in business use cases in the coming year. Last week, John Roese, global chief technology officer at Dell, said that more businesses will use more mature generative AI applications, while the general hype and pilots around the technology could die down.

Google on Wednesday also announced v5pits latest-generation Tensor Processing Unit (TPU). The latter is a custom chip designed in-house by Google, specializing in AI use cases. The company called it the most powerful, efficient and scalable TPU system to date."
Rapido, a bike-taxi and auto-aggregator company, has launched Rapido Cabs, a cab booking service, in addition to its bikes and auto booking services, according to an official release. Swiggy-backed start-up claimed that it has around 1 lakh cabs on its platform, and the service is currently available in Delhi NCR, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru.

Rapido also aims to expand across India by the middle of 2024, said companys co-founder Pavan Guntupalli.

The aggregator company enjoys 60% market share in bike taxis, Rapido plans to expand its footprint with "the pan-India launch of Rapido Cabs, introducing an initial fleet of 1 lakh vehicles," as per the release.

Also Read | Can Uber navigate the bumpy road ahead?

Speaking on the launch of cab services, Guntupalli said, "We are incredibly excited to introduce Rapido Cabs pan India following the immense success of our bike taxi and auto services across the country. Our innovative SaaS-based platform revolutionizes the conventional commission system for drivers, tackling the persistent challenge of commission sharing with aggregators. This pioneering approach ensures that drivers incur only a minimal software usage fee, marking a significant shift in the industry."

He added, It also prioritises customers by ensuring lowest price guarantee and making our services exceptionally affordable for all."

Rapido charges nominal subscription fee from its drivers. Once a driver reaches earnings of 10,000 from the Rapido app, drivers will be subject to a subscription fee of 500.

In 2022, Rapido had raised $130 million from various investors in past, is currently present in around 100 cities across the country with over 25 million customers and over 1.5 million driver-partners.

Also Read | Mounting woes threaten Rapido's stunning rise

Both Ola and Uber, known for their cab aggregation businesses, offer bike taxi services, but Rapido is the largest and possibly fastest growing. The television advertisements airing during the Indian Premier League games have only contributed to the brand's recognition. However, autorickshaw unions seem to be the most hostile toward Bike Taxis, as they see them as their closest competitors, due to the price point.

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Billionaire Gautam Adani has climbed to the 15th spot in the Bloomberg Billionaire Index (BBI) as of December 6, reaching within close distance of India's and Asia's richest man Mukesh Ambani .

With net worth of $82.5 billion, the Adani Group founder is now the world's 15th richest person and the second richest Indian and Asian on the list. He has gained $12.3 billion from the last list position, but lost $38 billion year-to-date (YTD)  most of this loss can be attributed to the wealth bleed during the Hindenberg allegations.

In January 2023, Hindenburg Research, a New York-based short seller, accused the Adani Group of prolonged stock manipulation and accounting irregularities. These claims were refuted by the Adani Group. Subsequent to these allegations, declines in the stock prices of Adani Group companies resulted in a staggering decrease of almost 60 percent in Adani's personal fortune, plummeting by up to $69 billion.

Ahmedabad's Adani Group, led by Gautam Adani, stands as a key infrastructure conglomerate in India. It owns the nation's largest private port and a prominent role in global coal trading. Adani Enterprises, the flagship company within the group, disclosed revenues amounting to $17 billion for the fiscal year concluding on March 31, 2023.

Gautam Adani's wealth primarily stems from his ownership in six publicly traded companies affiliated with the Adani Group, the conglomerate he established.

As per the BBI, Adani's companies and stakes (via promoter group and through the Adani family trust) include the publicly traded companies -- Adani Enterprises (68 percent); Adani Green Energy (56 percent); Adani Ports (63 percent); Adani Power (67 percent); Adani Transmission (68 percent); and Adani Total Gas (37 percent).

Meanwhile, Reliance Industries chairman Ambani retains his topmost Indian spot on the list at the 13th spot with wealth of $91.4 billion. He has gained $1.01 billion since the last change and added $4.33 billion to his wealth YTD.

Rounding up the Indians in the Top 50 of the BBI are Shapoor Mistry with $32.8 billion at 41st spot and Shiv Nadar with $30.7 billion at the 45th position.

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The Assembly Election 2023 results were out on December 3 for Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Telangana. Mizoram results were declared on the following day.

The Bharatiya Janata Party will remain in power in Madhya Pradesh while it has toppled the Congress governments in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. The Grand Old Party, on the other hand, managed to claim Telangana. The Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) won 27 out of 40 seats in Mizoram.

Wholl be Rajasthan CM?

BJP leader Bahadur Singh Koli has said that people in Rajasthan want Vasundhara Raje to become the next chief minister. He has also said that Rajes popularity will be discussed in the party meeting. However, the fact is that the picture is still unclear. Potential CM candidates in Rajasthan also include Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Yogi of Rajasthan Baba Balak Nath and Diya Kumari among others.

Wholl be Madhya Pradesh CM?

Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the present CM of the state, has been hailed for the BJPs victory. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said after the results, Ladli Behna scheme is a game-changer and the full credit for it goes to Shivraj Singh Chouhan." Chouhan, however, has said that he doesn't consider himself as a CM contender.

"I have never been a contender for the Chief Minister post, nor am I today. As a worker, I will always do whatever work the party gives me with my full dedication, capacity and honesty," ANI quoted CM Chouhan as saying.

Meanwhile, names like Prahlad Singh Patel - the Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, and BJP National General Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya - a former mayor of Indore are also doing rounds. Scindias name is in the fray as well.

Wholl be Chhattisgarh CM?

The frontrunner for the top post is Raman Singh. The former Chhattisgarh chief minister is a BJP veteran. Singh has already served as the CM for three terms. Now, the saffron party has to decide if it wants to give him a chance for the fourth term. Arun Sao, considered the BJPs OBC face in the state, may also be considered if the party decides to choose a new leader.

Wholl be Telangana CM?

There is less confusion when it comes to Telangana. During the Congress Legislative Party meeting on December 5, Revanth Reddy was unanimously elected to be the next chief minister of Telangana. The swearing-in ceremony of the new Congress government will take place on December 7.

Wholl be Mizoram CM?

The Zoram People's Movement (ZPM), under the leadership of former IPS Shri Lalduhoma, proved all pre-result speculations wrong by winning 27 out of 40 seats in Mizoram. Lalduhoma, who was once a member of the Congress party, is all set to become the next chief minister of the North-Eastern state. We are friends of farmers and we have to give them that top priority," Lalduhoma said after winning the election.

(With ANI inputs)

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Commentary

By Sylvain Charlebois

There has been one fatal case and 63 confirmed cases of salmonella infection in Canada linked to a cantaloupe-related outbreak, as reported by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). The outbreak is associated with Malichita and Rudy brand cantaloupes, distributed in all provinces across Canada and believed to have originated from Mexico.

Food recall alerts for Malichita brand cantaloupes, sold between Oct. 11 and Nov. 14, 2023, were issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) on Nov. 1, Nov. 14, and Nov. 17. The most recent alert, issued on Nov. 24, received widespread media coverage. Unfortunately, for some individuals, including the one who has tragically passed away, this critical information came too late.

Cantaloupes are highly susceptible to Salmonella contamination, often linked to irrigation water. The textured outer rind of cantaloupes can harbour Salmonella bacteria. Since cantaloupes are typically consumed raw, contaminated products pose a significant health risk.

The challenge lies in the effectiveness of our current risk communication model for food recalls, which heavily relies on mass media to disseminate information. Individuals who do not stay updated with the news can unknowingly consume unsafe products.

The landscape of mass media has undergone significant evolution. Declining revenues and oversubscribed reporting, combined with the fact that younger generations primarily rely on social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube for information, have strained traditional media outlets. Given the current staffing shortages in the media industry, we can no longer solely depend on traditional channels to effectively disseminate recall information, especially amidst the noise generated by numerous competing news stories.

It is imperative that we explore more efficient methods, including leveraging the potential of AI, to address this challenge.

Consider the pandemic response as an example. It took weeks for Ottawa to develop a smartphone application that could inform people about potential exposure to COVID-19. A similar application that notifies the public about recalled food products would be beneficial. While AI offers possible solutions, it must be implemented with privacy concerns in mind. Although the CFIA website has improved, there is still room for enhancement.

Another pressing issue is the waste generated by food recalls. Due to the lack of precise communication during recalls, a significant amount of food may go to waste. Following this outbreak, consumers may avoid cantaloupes altogether, regardless of their origin, which mirrors what occurred in 2019 when romaine lettuce from California was recalled in Canada, resulting in a surplus of wasted lettuce. These situations contribute to unnecessary food waste.

The number of food recalls and food safety notifications in Canada this year stands at 177, compared to 226 in 2022, a record-breaking year. Each time, we are likely to see more waste and increased costs. While all recalls are theoretically preventable, the reality is that they will continue to happen, impacting consumers.

According to the CFIA, over four million Canadians experience a foodborne illness annually. The agency must improve real-time risk communication to prevent casualties, suffering, and unnecessary waste.

For consumers who discover recalled products at home, its worth noting that many grocers will offer refunds even without a receipt. If your grocer does not provide a refund, consider taking your business elsewhere.

Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is senior director of the agri-food analytics lab and a professor in food distribution and policy at Dalhousie University.
When Robert Habeck, co-leader of the Green party and the economy tsar in Germanys ruling coalition, floated a bill last spring that mandated replacing gas and oil boilers with cleaner heat pumps, he got more heat than he bargained for. Tabloids screamed his heat hammer" would push millions into debt. Whipped-up fury against Green fascism" boosted ratings for the hard-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The minister spent much of the summer tweaking his bill. His patience paid off. In early September the Bundestag passed it by a cosy 397-275 votes.

Yet the new law may prove a sign of things to come. For one thing, the spring storm exposed just how fast and how low enthusiasm for environmental initiatives can sink the moment they threaten wallets. Mr Habecks compromise also showed that despite much progress in Germanys Energiewende, the now two-decade-old national effort to shift entirely to clean energy remains a steep uphill climb. Indeed, at current rates it looks increasingly doubtful that Germany will reach its target of net carbon neutrality by 2045.

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Home heating is a small part of the puzzle, but well illustrates the challenge. Some 80% of Germanys buildings heat using fossil fuels, contributing about 15% of total CO 2 output. The draft law, which would have forced adoption of electric heat pumps starting next year, aimed to cut this in half by 2030. A longer time-frame and wider exemptions under the new law mean it will reach perhaps 75% of this goal, says Mr Habecks ministry. And that sounds optimistic. Trade groups say there are few skilled pump-fitters. Older buildings will need costly insulation upgrades. And the complexity of state subsidies for the pumps, which can cost upwards of 20,000 ($21,000), may slow take-up.

There is another problem. For all their efficiency, heat pumps draw on electricity that in Germany is largely still supplied by hydrocarbons. True, on good days solar and wind power now generate well over half the power supply. But with demand expected to grow by 20% by 2030pushed up by millions of new electric cars and now heat pumpsthe addition of renewables capacity will need to speed up markedly. So will investment in the already stressed distribution network, which must increasingly cope with capricious wind and solar rather than steady thermal inputs.

And so, say many experts, will investment in dirty old thermal plants. A recent report on bottlenecks to German growth from Deutsche Bank is categorical: The basic problem is that no cost-effective electricity-storage technologies on a large industrial scale are in sightGermany will therefore continue to rely on traditional back-up power-generation capacity." This means not just gas and coal but even stinkier domestic lignite: scrambling in 2022 to make up for cut-off Russian gas supplies, it relaunched no fewer than five mothballed brown coal" plants.

Hans-Werner Sinn, an economist in Munich, is also blunt. The 40% decline since 1990 in the amount of CO 2 that Germany emits, he said in a recent lecture, was reached by plucking low-hanging fruit", such as letting grimy smokestack industries in former East Germany die. In Germanys current primary-energy mix, including such things as fuel used for transport and heating as well as electricity generation, the share of renewables still remains below 20%. Given that Germany abandoned nuclear energy earlier this year, Mr Sinn reckons that making the remainder clean would mean covering some 2% of Germanys surface, as much as its entire transport network, in wind and solar farms. Maybe Germany should have invested in more nuclear power instead.
Indias derivatives market has seen exponential growth in the last few years. This segment tends to lure investors as one can take a larger exposure with a lower investmentyou put just a fraction of the notional value to trade in the futures and options (F&O) segments, which could significantly push profit margins (but also losses). While these products are seen as a pathway to make a quick buck, they also come with their own share of risks, leaving the market regulator worried. At a recent quarterly board meeting, Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch expressed concern about retail investors participating in equity derivatives trading, saying it was the regulator's responsibility to caution investors, adding that Sebi was not worried about systemic risks.

Whats going on?

The derivatives trading volumes in India have overtaken the cash market volumes by a huge margin, all within the last five years. Investors across the world show great proclivity towards derivatives markets, but Indias ratio of derivatives volumes to its cash market volumes is astounding, indicating unbounded excitement. As many as 58.54 billion contracts have been traded on the National Stock Exchanges equity derivatives segment so far this fiscal year, close to the record 41.76 billion traded in the entire FY23.

Also read: Mint Primer: When the tail wags the dog: Futures & options

The trade leaderboard

Retail investors currently have over a one-fourth share in turnover in equity derivativeswith nearly 35% in index options, followed by 31% each in index futures and stock options. But proprietary traders (brokers trading with their own money rather than clients) remain the biggest investors, and their share has been consistently rising. More sophisticated investors such as foreign institutional investors have also been tightening their grip over derivatives.

Fraught with risk

However, dabbling in derivatives can prove risky as it can easily turn into a weapon of mass destruction. Many individuals lack the expertise to deal with this segment. A Sebi study in January pointed out that nine out of 10 investors lose money in F&O trading, and senior citizens suffer the most.

The sustained interest in F&O trading, despite significant losses and regulatory warnings, underscores the allure of market rallies and zero-day options (a one-day bet)," said Satish Menon, executive director, Geojit Financial Services. While this trend may persist, the Sebi report's revelation should act as a collective wake-up call. Derivatives trading demands in-depth knowledge of products and risks; blindly entering this arena leads to inevitable losses."
Good Morning

The News in Summary Indias top court reserved its judgment on the Adani case, but investors, taking their cues from the observations it made, sent shares of the groups companies soaring. Meanwhile, with Gautam Singhanias marital woes sending shares of Raymond plummeting, proxy advisors asked the companys independent directors to intervene in protecting the interests of shareholders. Elsewhere, with Go First facing liquidation, its lenders are looking at an unusual option of seeking litigation finance while Aster DM Healthcare is selling off its Gulf business to its Indian promoters and UAE's Fajr capital in an effort to focus on its more profitable India business. Finally, with the JSW group picking up a 35% stake in a new JV with SAIC Motor for MG Motor India, Sajjan Jindals dream of entering the automobile business is being realized.

SC Observations Trigger Bull Run in Adani Stocks With the Supreme Court refusing to accept the Hindenburg report as evidence and maintaining that an investigation cannot be initiated solely on the basis of media reports, and also denying a request for a probe into the country's major financial institutions, the cloud hanging over the Adani group seems to have lifted. The apex court's three-judge panel, led by chief justice D. Chandrachud, made these remarks while concluding hearings on several petitions demanding an inquiry into the allegations raised by US short seller Hindenburg in January this year. While the SC has reserved its judgment in the matter, market analysts feel that the top court put paid to questions around Sebis credibility to probe the Hindenburg fallout. Its observations led to a surge in the share prices of several Adani companies led by flagship Adani Enterprises with the groups market cap posting its biggest increase since the Hindenburg report surfaced. There was heavy investor interest in Adani Power, Adani Green, Adani Energy Solutions, Adani Total Gas and Adani Ports, too, all of which rose between 5% and 19%.

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Desperate Go First Lenders Chase Rs 12,000 crore of Litigation Finance With the threat of liquidation looming large over the bankrupt airline, lenders to Go First are looking for litigation finance to raise up to Rs 12,000 crore tied up in various lawsuits . That includes the arbitration award the grounded airline won against engine maker Pratt & Whitney at the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) earlier this year. After Go First moved a Delaware court to enforce the arbitration ruling, it ran short of funds to pursue the case ever since it stopped flying in May. The idea of litigation finance, suggested by Go Firsts resolution professional, is also a clear sign that chances of a turnaround are closing for the airline which owes at least Rs 11,463 crore collectively to banks, international lessors and vendors. Last week, the airline bought itself some more time with the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) granting a 90-day extension for its resolution process. That ends on 4 February 2024, when the process to liquidate its assets will begin. Clearly, Go First needs any plans, including that of seeking litigation financing, to be accelerated.

Aster to Sell Low Margin Gulf Business In an effort to unlock value for shareholders of its listed entity in India, Aster DM Healthcare Ltd, which runs multispeciality hospitals, is selling its Gulf business to its Indian promoters (Moopen family) and a Dubai-based consortium for $1.001 billion., The separation plan envisages that a consortium led by United Arab Emirates (UAE) government-backed Fajr Capital will acquire a 65% stake in the ownership of the GCC business while the Moopen family will continue to manage and operate it, retaining a 35% stake. The Gulf business generates 70% of Asters revenues, but has been a drag on the India business because of lower margins. Proceeds from the deal will help erase the Gulf companys debt. While Fajr Capital will put up the bulk of the money for the deal, the Moopen family will fund its share through dividends secured from Aster DM Healthcare Ltd, whose share price has gone up over 40% in the last six months despite posting a loss of Rs 30.79 cr for Q2 FY24.

JSW Seals Deal For Stake in MG Motor Steel tycoon Sajjan Jindal just got closer to his dream of launching passenger cars in the country after his JSW Group cemented an agreement with SAIC Motor Corp. Ltd (which owns MG Motor India) wherein it will own 35% in a newly created joint venture (JV) focusing on electric vehicles (EVs). The eventual plan, which has been in the works for over six months , is for JSW to turn majority shareholder in the venture in the next two years. Read in conjunction with the groups ongoing discussions to buy the Chennai plant of US carmaker Ford, which ceased production in the country in 2021, it marks a serious push by the steel-to-energy conglomerate into Indias EV market, valued at $2 billion in 2023, and slated to treble to $7.09 billion by 2025. For MG Motor, which entered the Indian market in 2017 following its acquisition of General Motors Halol plant, and began its sales and manufacturing operations in 2019 with the launch of the Hector, the deal will help in expanding its operations in the country which have been stymied due to curbs on investments from China.

Before it passed into Chinese hands in 2007, The MG Car Company was a much-loved British auto brand. Heres a fascinating documentary on the companys history

Last Word The sleeping giant may be waking up Life Insurance Corp. of India (LIC), the countrys largest domestic institutional investor which manages $569.3 billion of assets, has been increasingly vocal in its criticism of founders of public companies naming their scions as senior executives or board members . Between January 2022, months before the insurance giant went public, and 30 September 2023, LIC posted its unhappiness over 12 proposals pertaining to the appointment or reappointment of the next generation of founders in promoter-led firms including high-profile ones like Adani Green, Sun Pharma and Piramal Enterprises. The caveat of course is that in all but one of these cases, it did not reject the resolution, saving the promoters from embarrassment. But for an institution that has been notoriously quiescent in the past, even this is a major step forward.

Answer to the Question The unwanted distinction of the biggest such settlement belongs to Jeff and MacKenzie Bezos, whose divorce, at roughly $160 billion, set a financial record that will be difficult to top.

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Samco Mutual Fund announced the launch of the Dynamic Asset Allocation Fund, an open-ended dynamic asset allocation fund. The fund is built on a proprietary TRANSFORMER" model that determines equity and debt allocation based on prevalent market trends.

The scheme opened for public subscription on December 07, 2023, and will close on December 21, 2023. The scheme re-opens for continuous sale and repurchase within five business days from the date of allotment.

What kind of mutual fund scheme is this?

This is an open-ended dynamic asset allocation fund.

Commenting on the launch, Viraj Gandhi, CEO, SAMCO Asset Management, said, At SAMCO Mutual Fund, we are driven by a commitment to empower investors with innovative and robust financial solutions. The launch of our Dynamic Asset Allocation Fund marks yet another significant step in our journey to provide investors with stability, growth, and peace of mind. We believe this fund, helmed by experienced professionals, will redefine investment experiences and set new benchmarks in the industry."

This product is suitable for investors seeking

Capital appreciation and income generation over medium to long term

Investment in a dynamically managed portfolio of equity and equity-related instruments and debt & money market securities

What is the main objective of investing in this fund?

The investment objective of the scheme is to generate income/long-term capital appreciation by investing in equity, equity derivatives, fixed-income instruments, and foreign securities. The allocation between equity instruments and fixed income will be managed dynamically to provide investors with long-term capital appreciation while managing downside risk. However, there can be no assurance or guarantee of the investment objective of the scheme.

Umeshkumar Mehta, Chief Investment Officer (CIO), SAMCO Asset Management, added, SAMCO Mutual Fund is proud to introduce the Dynamic Asset Allocation Fund, a result of our commitment to addressing the concerns and needs of investors in India. With DAAF, we offer a game-changing solution that combines the potential for good returns with an attempt to minimize drawdowns. Our innovative approach, backed by the TRANSFORMER model, ensures that investors can navigate market fluctuations with confidence. We believe DAAF will redefine the way investors perceive and approach their investments, offering them peace of mind and long-term wealth creation opportunities."

How may one invest in this scheme?

Investors can invest under the scheme with a minimum investment of 5000 per plan/option and in multiples of Re 1. There is no upper limit for investment.

Under normal circumstances, the asset allocation of the scheme will be as follows:

Instruments Indicative allocations (% of total assets) Risk Profile Minimum Maximum Equity & Equity related instruments including derivatives 0% 100% Very High Debt and Money Market Instruments, including Units of Debt oriented mutual fund schemes 0% 100% Low to Moderate

Are there similar mutual funds in the market?

To date, many asset management companies (AMCs) have launched such funds in the past, thus, allowing investors to benefit from the hybrid nature of fund management.

Name of the fund house Name of the fund 10-year returns (in %) HDFC Mutual Fund HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund 17.03 Nippon India Mutual Fund Nippon India Balanced Advantage Fund 13.48 ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund ICICI Prudential Balanced Advantage Fund 13.42 Edelweiss Mutual Fund Edelweiss Balanced Advantage Fund 13.31 Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund Aditya Birla Sun Life Balanced Advantage Fund 12.81 HSBC Mutual Fund HSBC Balanced Advantage Fund 12.63 Invesco Mutual Fund Invesco India Balanced Advantage Fund 12.54 Source: AMFI (As of December 06, 2023)

How will the scheme benchmark its performance?

The schemes performance would be benchmarked against the NIFTY50 Hybrid Composite Debt 50: 50 index. The scheme invests in both equity and debt using an active asset allocation approach to manage risk. The NIFTY50 Hybrid Composite Debt 50:50 index seeks to track the performance of a portfolio having a blend of 50% equity and 50% debt. The NIFTY50 Hybrid Composite Debt 50:50 index being the most appropriate of the available benchmarks reflecting the investible universe of the scheme, is being used as a benchmark.

Are there any entry or exit loads to this scheme?

This scheme involves no Entry Load", which means that investors do not have to pay anything to park their earnings in this scheme. The Exit Load" would be charged as per the following:

25% of the units allotted may be redeemed without any exit load, on or before completion of 12 months from the date of allotment of units. Any redemption over such limit in the first 12 months from the date of allotment shall be subject to the following exit load:

- 1% if redeemed or switched out on or before completion of 12 months from the date of allotment of units;

- Nil, if redeemed or switched out after completion of 12 months from the date of allotment of units.

Who will manage this scheme?

The fund will be jointly managed by Paras Matalia (equity portion), Umeshkumar Mehta (equity portion), and Abhiroop Mukherjee (debt portion). Further, Dhawal Ghanshyam Dhanani is the dedicated fund manager for making overseas investments as permitted under the regulations, guidelines, and circulars issued from time to time.

Does the fund contain any inherent risk?

The scheme involves Very High Risk" as per the details mentioned in the Scheme Information Document and is best suited to investors willing to understand that their principal will be subject to very high risk. However, investors should consult their financial advisors if they doubt whether the product is suitable for them.

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QR code scam is rapidly rising as it is the most common way scammers can trick users. The rise of QR code scams poses a significant threat in the expanding digital payment landscape. Scammers exploit the ease of QR code use, directing users to phishing sites and risking sensitive data theft.

On 6 May 2022, Mint reported that Delhis Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals daughter Harshita became a victim of an online scam. She tried to sell an old sofa set at an online second-hand marketplace but was, instead, duped at 34,000. Several such cases have come to the fore of late.

How does QR code fraud take place?

The scam starts with someone putting an item on an online sale website. Thats when the fraudsters pose as buyers and share the QR code to pay an advance or token amount. They then create a QR code and share it with the intended victim through WhatsApp or email. They will ask the victim to scan the QR code sent by them so that they will receive the money directly into their bank accounts. Believing them, the victims scan QR codes sent by the fraudsters presuming that they will receive the money in their account but they end up losing money.

How to identity QR code scams?

To identify scams, firstly users should know that QR code is only scanned to send money and not to receive money.

"Another important practice is to inspect the URL or website linked to the QR code. Ensure that it begins with "https://" to indicate a secure connection, and be wary of misspellings or suspicious variations in the domain name. Consumers should beware and alert to make correct decisions and protect themselves from falling prey to QR code scams," said Amit Kumar, Chief Technology Officer, Easebuzz

Deceptive tactics extend to emails, with scammers posing as reputable companies, leading to potential identity theft and malicious software downloads. Popular platforms are targeted, with persistent tactics to trick users for financial gain," said Amit Relan, Co-Founder and CEO, mFilterIt.

How to safeguard against QR code scams?

To safeguard against QR scams, avoid sharing UPI IDs and bank details with strangers, verify online transactions, and exercise caution with suspicious QR codes, said Amit Relan.

Comprehensive guidelines are needed to enhance public awareness and promote secure digital payment practices in the QR-dominated era, which is critical to building a seamless and secure digital payment ecosystem, he added.

Aside from the QR code fraud, there are several ways wherein online scams are being carried out.

ARVIND More Information

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Earth Sciences Minister Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday informed Lok Sabha that the activation of the Almora fault in western Nepal is the reason behind the significant increase in earthquakes in 2023. There have been 97 earthquakes in 2023 of magnitude 3.0 to 3,9 compared to 41 in 2022, reported PTI

In a written reply in Lok Sabha, Rijiju said the activation of the Almora fault triggered significant earthquakes on January 24, October 3 and November 3. All these three earthquakes were above 5.8 magnitude.

Also Read | PoK would be part of India if Jawaharlal Nehru...': Amit Shah asserts

These main, accompanied by subsequent aftershocks, led to an increased frequency of earthquakes in 2023. However, the background seismicity remained unchanged during this period," the Earth Sciences Minister informed the Parliament.

"It is common for northern India and Nepal to occasionally experience moderate earthquakes and fluctuations in seismic activity. Nepal and the neighbouring northern part of India, situated near the active faults of the Himalayan region, are highly seismically active areas prone to frequent earthquakes due to collision tectonics, where the Indian plate subducts beneath the Eurasian Plate," the Minister said.

The northern part of India including Delhi-NCR experienced strong tremors this year. On January 24, an earthquake of magnitude 5.8 hit Nepal. It was strongly felt in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

Similarly, on October 3, two earthquakes of magnitude 4.6 and 6.2 jolted Nepal and the tremors were again felt in Delhi-NCR. On November 3, a powerful earthquake of 6.4 magnitude hit Nepal with more than 382 aftershocks.

The Almora fault is a high angle west-northwest-east-souteast to northwest-southeast trending tectonic plane that separates the Garhwal group of inner lesser Himalayas in the north from Jaunsar and Dudatoli Groups of outer lesser Himalayas in the south.

The Minister further informed that the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has published the Seismic Zoning Map of India, ranging from Zone II to V and offers guidelines for implementing the essential engineering codes and practices to construct earthquake-resistant buildings.

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BJP is likely to appoint new faces as Chief Minister in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, where assembly polls were recently held, sources told ANI. However, the party hasn't made any confirmation related to CM in these states.

Also Read: Election Results Live Updates: BJP to unveil new CM faces in MP, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, says report

The recently concluded state assembly elections emerged as a shocker for everyone after the BJP managed to perform beyond expectations in all four states. The saffron party managed to remain in power in Madhya Pradesh after ruling the state for more than 15 years. On the other hand, it toppled the government in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. Despite the Congress party's victory in Telangana, the BJP managed to make significant improvements in its vote share in the state compared to the last state assembly elections.

Also Read: Digvijay Singh claims BJP knew Assembly poll results two days before counting, shares screenshots

In Rajasthan, there have been speculations around the party's high command to select Vasundhara Raje or Baba Balak Nath as the next CM of the state. People in Rajasthan want Vasundhara Raje as the next CM of the state, according to BJP leader Bahadur Singh Koli. Other potential CM candidates include Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Yogi of Rajasthan Baba Balak Nath, and Diya Kumari.

In Madhya Pradesh, Shivraj Singh Chouhan is expected to be the prime face for the CM of the state. His welfare schemes in MP helped the party maintain its dominance in the state.

Ladli Behna scheme is a game-changer and the full credit for it goes to Shivraj Singh Chouhan," said Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia. However, Chouhan never expressed the possibility of him handling the CM post for another term.

"I have never been a contender for the Chief Minister post, nor am I today. As a worker, I will always do whatever work the party gives me with my full dedication, capacity, and honesty," CM Chouhan told ANI.

Other names on the list of possible CM candidates are Prahlad Singh Patel, Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, BJP National General Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya, and even Jyotiraditya Scindia.

In Chattisgarh, former state CM Raman Singh has been the frontrunner in the CM race. Arun Sao is another BJP leader who is likely to be given the chance to become the next CM of Chattisgarh.

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Two days after facing the fury of Cyclone Michaung, many parts of Chennai continued to reel under severe flooding, water-logging, and power outage. To assess the flood situation in the state, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Tamil Nadu on Thursday. He is also scheduled to hold a meeting with Chief Minister MK Stalin.

Despite weakening into a well-marked low-pressure area, Cyclone Michaung is expected to cause heavy rainfall at isolated places in Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and North Andhra Pradesh for the next 10-12 hours, according to IMD.

South Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu will not receive any more rain due to the cyclone. However, several districts continue to grapple with its aftermath. Here are the top updates on the Michaung cyclone.

Michaung Cyclone: Latest updates

-As people continue to face severe flooding, and power cuts in several parts of Chennai, the government has declared a holiday for schools and colleges in the city on December 7.

-Rescue operations continued to save people stuck in water-logged areas of the city including localities like Velachery and Tambaram. On Wednesday too, people were seen leaving their homes and calling for help. Boats were ferrying people to higher ground.

-After making landfall, the cyclonic storm has weakened into a low-pressure area and will not have any disastrous impact, DG IMD Mrityunjay Mohapatra told ANI on Wednesday.

-The cyclone lies over south Chhattisgarh and the neighbourhood at 5:30 pm on Wednesday, said IMD in its bulletin. It is likely to become less marked during the next 12 hours.

-The cyclone is likely to move north-northeastward and weaken further. In the next 12-18 hours, rainfall will continue in some places. Moreover, isolated heavy rainfall may occur from 7 cm to 11 cm in areas of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and North Andhra Pradesh, Mohapatra told ANI.

-Apart from the previously mentioned states, south Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu are completely clear, said Mohapatra, ruling out any possibility of heavy rainfall. He also said that fishermen in these states can venture into the sea to earn their livelihood.

-The weather forecast agency has predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning at isolated places over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, Mahe and Lakshadweep. There was no rain forecast in the bulletin for Thursday.

-Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin took stock of cyclone-affected areas on Wednesday. Moreover, he also distributed items of necessities like food and milk to the victims of cyclone-induced floods. He also wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking an immediate interim relief fund of 5,060 crore.

-"Chennai's suburbs are still inundated. Many people are working in the field to ensure that everyone gets necessities like food and milk. We are continuing our fieldwork with the hope that the situation will improve soon," MK Stalin posted on X.

-In southern Odisha, severe rainfall due to cyclonic storm Michaung's landfall in Andhra Pradesh caused damage to standing crops. The government has sought damage assessment reports from district collectors.

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Auto giants Maruti Suzuki India, Mahindra & Mahindra and luxury car maker Audi have extended support to customers in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh affected by floods and cyclones, on December 6.

According to a statement, Maruti Suzuki India has collaborated with its dealer partners and made several arrangements at its workshops.

The company proactively sent out 7 lakh SMS alerts to its customers as soon as news about the cyclone 'Michaung' was reported. In a statement, it said that even before the cyclone hits, customers could take precautionary measures to protect their cars from potential damage.

It mobilized 46 tow trucks from neighbouring cities and activated 34 roadside assistance vehicles for quick response, augmented spare parts inventory to ensure ready availability, and collaborated with insurance firms to expedite claim processing.

For its customers in the affected areas, Mahindra & Mahindra has provided complimentary roadside assistance, free inspections and damage assessments, and financial relief through special discounts.

In response to the ongoing flooding in Chennai caused by Cyclone Michaung, Audi has announced free 24-hour roadside assistance.

"In light of the unprecedented challenges faced by the city of Chennai, we are making every possible effort to assist our customers in the city," Audi India Head Balbir Singh Dhillon said.

Cyclone Michaung has weakened into a depression over northeast Telangana, the India Meteorological Department informed on Wednesday.

Deep Depression (Remnant of Cyclonic Storm MICHAUNG", pronounced as MIGJAUM) weakened into a Depression over Northeast Telangana," IMD wrote on X.

Cyclonic storm Michaung has turned into a severe Cyclonic storm, the India India Meteorological Department said on Monday. Heavy rainfall due to Cyclone Michaung caused severe waterlogging in several areas across Chennai on Monday. Several low-lying areas, including hospitals and many residential parts, witnessed inundation even as civic agency personnel were involved in clearing the stagnant water.

(With Inputs from PTI)

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Dehradun is gearing up to host the Global Investors Summit on December 8-9, where organisers are anticipating a turnout of 5,000 delegates from India and abroad.

The Plan

The Uttarakhand government plans to highlight over 15 investor-friendly policies, emphasising good governance measures, a supportive regulatory framework, and sustainable practices during the Summit. The agenda also includes Business-to-Business (B2B) and Government-to-Business (G2B) meetings, aimed at aiding investors in making informed decisions, it added.

The Summit aims to foster collaboration between exhibitors, private enterprises, and government organisations by giving them a platform to display advanced technologies, innovations, and upcoming trends. Additionally, the sectoral sessions at the Summit will facilitate in-depth discussions on industry challenges and opportunities, as per the Uttarakhand government release.

Also Read: Uttarakhand govt signs MoUs worth more than 20,000 crore ahead of Global Investors Summit in Dehradun

Investment Ready

During the Social Media Influencers Meet preceding the Global Investors Summit, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasised the state's safety regarding law and order, branding it as one of the safest in the nation and a prime destination for investment.

"We've received a highly positive response from various locations across the country and abroad for the Investors Summit. Currently, investment proposals worth 2 lakh crore have been confirmed," Dhami said. He also stressed that the government's primary focus was on creating job opportunities.

Encouraging wider awareness, the CM urged attendees at the Social Media Influencers Meet to promote the event across the country and globally. He expressed the desire for "Destination Uttarakhand, Global Investors Summit" to trend worldwide through their platforms.

Also Read: CM Pushkar Singh Dhami releases logo, website of Global Investors summit in Dehradun

Dhami on December 5 also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially open the Summit, at the Forest Research Institute on December 8. He further said that the framework of 'Destination Uttarakhand' is fashioned after the Vibrant Gujarat model, drawing inspiration from its structure and objectives.

Extensive Preparation

Director General of Police (DGP) Abhinav Kumar told ANI that extensive preparations have been made for the upcoming event. Speaking on December 6, DGP Kumar highlighted the significance of the summit, stating, "The Chief Minister has orchestrated this Global Investors Summit for the industrial advancement of our state. Months of meticulous preparations have been underway, culminating in the final event scheduled for December 8-9 in Dehradun."

Anticipating a significant turnout, DGP Kumar noted, "We're expecting a substantial presence of investors and industrialists from across the country and worldwide. The Prime Minister is set to inaugurate the summit, while the Union Home Minister will be present at the closing ceremony."

Also Read: Uttarakhand got investments worth over 54,000 crore since September

Acknowledging security concerns regarding the dignitaries' participation, the Uttarakhand DGP assured, "Elaborate security measures have been put in place, considering the safety of the Prime Minister and the Home Minister, as well as the overall interest and participation in the event. Approximately 600 police personnel, overseen by a Deputy Inspector General (DIG), will be deployed for security purposes. Collaborative meetings with other agencies have also been held."

Expressing confidence in the Uttarakhand Police's commitment, DGP Kumar affirmed, "We are dedicated to ensuring the success of this Summit, in line with the Chief Minister's vision, and will spare no effort to make it a triumph."

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By Catherine Sas, K.C.

and Andrew Borchert, Articled Student

Special to The Post

On November 16, 2023, the Province of British Columbia (the Province) announced the prioritization of 25 construction occupations through the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). The BC PNP is an economic selection program that provides an opportunity for employers to nominate workers who seek to immigrate to British Columbia (BC). Let's see how employers and construction workers can benefit from this new BC PNP priority program.

Construction workers in these select occupations must have a valid B.C. trades qualification, which includes either a valid trade certificate issued by or an apprenticeship registered with, SkilledTradesBC.

Prioritizing construction occupations in the BC PNP supports the Province's Homes for People action plan (HFP). The HFP aims to improve housing affordability, in part, by meeting the demand to build more residential housing and infrastructure. Facilitating PR for construction workers is intended to reduce labour supply shortages in BC's construction industry, enhance further home construction and increase the housing supply and infrastructure in BC.

There are 6 steps to obtain PR through BC PNP. First, an applicant must register through BCPNP Online. Second, an applicant will receive a points score based on a variety of factors, including directly related work experience, level of education, proficiency in English or French, the hourly wage of the job offer in BC, and the area of employment in BC. Third, the applicant receives an invitation to apply (ITA) for nomination. Fourth, after receiving ITA, an applicant has 30 days to apply for provincial nomination. Fifth, the worker will receive a BC PNP nomination certificate to apply for PR. Sixth, the worker will become a permanent resident of Canada.

The Provinces announcement to prioritize PR for select construction workers is encouraging news for BC employers who struggle to find skilled labour in the construction industry. Prioritizing the construction sector also supports the Provinces broader initiative to make housing more affordable in BC. Both employers and construction workers alike benefit from the Province deeming the construction industry as a BC PNP priority program.

Catherine Sas, K.C. has over 30 years of legal experience. She provides a full range of immigration services and is a leading immigration practitioner (Lexpert, Whos Who Legal, Best Lawyers in Canada). Go to canadian-visa-lawyer.com or email catherine@sasanding.com.
For the convenience of Indian Umrah" pilgrims, Saudi Arabia has revised visa regulations and increased dedicated flights to India. As per the new regulations, Indian Muslims would not require a specific visa for the pilgrimage, and they can perform the pilgrimage with a work or tourism visa, Saudi Hajj and Umrah minister Tawfig Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah told Hindustan Times in an interview.

The revision of visa regulations would let more Indians perform Umrah", the pilgrimage to Makkah done outside the month of Ramzan.

Also Read: Air India and Air India Express launches special Haj flights for 19,000 Pilgrims

In 2024, around 1.37 million Indian Muslims are expected to perform Umrah. More than 1.2 million pilgrims have already performed Umrah in 2023 so far.

Also Read: Centre asks states to depute Muslim doctors on Haj pilgrimage duty

During his visit to India, Tawfig Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah also applauded the contribution of Indian expatriates to the economic and cultural enrichment of Saudi Arabia.

Also Read: India's first batch of 381 Haj pilgrims embarks on journey to Saudi Arabia

Measures taken by Saudi Arabia to facilitate the arrival of more Indian pilgrims

There has been an increment in the number of direct flights from multiple Indian airports to Jeddah and Madinah. In addition to this, the Saudi government has brokered several agreements to augment the number of dedicated flights from India, the Saudi Hajj and Umrah minister told HT's Rezaul H Laskar.

Also Read: Putin to visit Saudi Arabia, UAE in rare trip outside Russia

Apart from increasing the frequency of flights between the two nations, there has been a strategic increase in seat capacity on Saudi Airlines. These efforts have been made to cater to the increasing demand for Umrah pilgrimage.

The revision to Umrah visa regulations for Indian Muslims has eliminated restrictions based on their previous visa status. They can also take the help of a user-friendly e-visa system. Other important adaptations include an extension of the Umrah visa to 90 days, the Saudi Hajj and Umrah minister told HT. In addition to this, Indians who are willing to perform Umrah can obtain a stopover visa.

Also Read: Saudi Arabia removes restrictions for Hajj pilgrims - Here's what has changed

These measures will help Indian pilgrims by enhancing flexibility throughout their journey. This would mainly benefit women who are planning the pilgrimage by themselves. The move would promote gender equality and cultivate a safer, more embracing environment.

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The Union Home Ministry has taken action against more than 100 websites that were involved in organised illegal investments and part-time job frauds , as per reports. These websites, as per an official statement, were operated by overseas individuals.

Also Read | QR code scams: How to identify and be safe from such tricks

Fraud Detected

The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C), a unit of the Union Home Ministry's vertical National Cybercrime Threat Analytics Unit (NCTAU), identified and recommended the blocking of these websites last week. They were found to be engaged in fraudulent investment schemes and part-time job scams.

Also Read | Online payment fraud: Beware of these five most common scams in India that everyone should know to protect their money

Under the Information Technology Act of 2000, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) blocked these websites following the recommendation made by the I4C. These websites were reportedly aiding in organised illegal investments and fraudulent part-time job offers.

Operated by individuals from abroad, these platforms used digital advertisements, chat messengers, and rented accounts to conduct their activities. The statement also highlighted that the proceeds from these economic crimes were being laundered out of India through various means like card networks, cryptocurrencies, overseas ATM withdrawals, and international Fintech companies.

Also Read: 6 ways to protect yourself from cyber fraud threats

The I4C, an initiative by the Home Ministry, aims to address cybercrimes in the country by coordinating comprehensive efforts against such illegal activities.

Earlier on November 5 MeitY issued blocking orders against 22 illegal betting apps and websites, including Mahadev Book, which is at the centre of a political row in poll-bound Chhattisgarh.

The action followed investigations conducted by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against an illegal betting app syndicate and subsequent raids on Mahadev Book in Chhattisgarh, revealing the apps alleged unlawful operations.

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Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, whose murder has sparked widespread protests in Rajasthan, was under threat from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, suggest intelligence inputs. Punjab police had shared inputs with their Rajasthan counterparts months ago regarding the threat to Gogamedis life, news agency PTI reported citing official sources.

In February this year, in an official communique, the Punjab DGP office informed their Rajasthan counterparts that gangster Sampat Nehra of Lawrence Bishnoi gang has plans to kill the Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena chief. Also Read | Govt to raise  1,200 crore by selling 8% stake in IRCON via OFS "According to an input, notorious gangster Sampat Nehra of Lawrence Bishnoi gang, who is currently lodged in Central Jail, Bathinda, has plans to kill Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, President of the Rajput community group 'Shree Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena' in order to incite religiously motivated riots in the state of Rajasthan," NDTV quoted a note from Punjab Police. Meanwhile, Shravan Singh Gogamedi, brother of the slain Karni Sena chief, accused Rajasthan police of not providing security to his brother despite threats. Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi kept running behind all police officials for 5 years but no one provided him security...Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi was a face of 'sarva samaaj' and 'sarva samaaj' will stand in support of him," he said. Also Read | RBI Policy: Interest cycle has peaked, rate cuts unlikely before June 2024

Gogamedi was shot dead by two persons in his house in Jaipur on Tuesday. Rohit Godara of the Bishnoi gang claimed responsibility for the murder.

In the CCTV footage, the attackers can be seen whipping out their weapons and firing indiscriminately at Gogamedi, who was sitting on a couch opposite them and who eventually fell down.

Also Read | Dream11 withdraws plea challenging Rs1,200 cr tax notice

"The attackers entered Gogamedi's house on the pretext that they wanted to talk to him. After talking to him for some time, they opened fire at him. One of Gogamedi's security guards retaliated and was injured in the firing. During the incident, two attackers shot their accomplice Naveen Shekhawat," Rajasthan DGP Umesh Mishra said.

"The Rohit Godara gang has taken responsibility for the murder. All possible hideouts of the attackers are being raided in the neighbouring districts and the Bikaner division," he added.

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Google Doodle is celebrating Finland's 106th independence day on December 6, 2023, through a special doodle whose reach spans the region of Finland.

During the early 20th century, Finland struggled for independence. From 1809 to 1918, Finland was an autonomous Grand Duchy within the Russian Empire, ceded from Sweden to Russia. During World War I and the Russian Revolution, however, the desire for independence gained momentum.

Why December 6?

Finnish independence was declared on December 6, 1917, after over a century of Russian dominion. The establishment of Finland as a sovereign nation marked a pivotal moment in Finnish history. A nation yearning for autonomy, the Declaration of Independence represented self-determination and resilience.

In 1809, Finland became a part of the Russian Empire. On December 6th, 1917, Finland became an independent state following the Russian Revolution and defeats in the First World War.

A group of people emigrated from central Russia to Finland and struggled for centuries to emancipate themselves from Swedish and Russian rule.

Observed annually on December 6th, this holiday commemorates the declaration of independence from the Russian Empire by the Finnish Parliament.

How do Finnish people celebrate?

In the evening, the ecumenical church services are broadcast on television by the Finnish National Broadcasting Company Yle. The Finnish Defence Forces parade is also broadcast on television. Lists of people who have been honoured or promoted in the Defence Forces by the President of Finland are published in the newspapers.

The President of Finland's Independence Day Reception is the main event of the day.

Finland's university cities host events, where Independence Day parades feature students wearing white hats and holding lit torches. The march in Helsinki begins at 5 pm at the Hietalahti cemetery. And at about 6 pm, it ends at the Senate Square after passing the Presidential Palace.

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After months of uncertainty regarding involvement in China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Giorgia Meloni-led government in Italy has formally withdrawn from the ambitious project, four years after signing the pact, news agencies reported on Wednesday.

Italy, which signed the agreement in 2019, was the first and only G7 nation to join the programme.

Rome communicated the long-anticipated decision to Beijing three days ago, according to agency reports.

The agreement with China was supposed to be automatically renewed after expiring in March 2024, unless Rome gave at least three months' written warning of pulling out.

Also Read | How China's Belt and Road Initiative is changing

In July this year, Italy's Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said joining the BRI was an "improvised and atrocious" act by Italy.

"The decision to join the (new) Silk Road was an improvised and atrocious act that multiplied China's exports to Italy but did not have the same effect on Italian exports to China," Crosetto said.

Also Read | BRIs sly debt trap

During the G20 Summit in Delhi, Meloni had signalled to China that they want to exit the agreement that is testing Italy's relations with the United States. Bloomberg had in September reported that the Italian prime minister had told her Chinese counterpart Li Qiang that Italy plans to withdraw from Chinese President Xi Jinpings signature initiative while still looking to maintain friendly relations with Beijing.

In the press conference on the last day of the G20 Summit, the Italian prime minister said, "A cordial and constructive dialogue on how we can deepen our bilateral partnership... I intend to keep my commitment to visit China...It makes more sense to go to China when we have more information on our bilateral cooperation and how to develop it."

"Leaving the Silk Road does not compromise relations, but the decision still has to be taken," the prime minister assured.

The Belt and Road scheme aims to recreate the ancient Silk Road trade routes linking China with Asia, Europe and beyond with large infrastructure spending. Critics see the scheme as a tool for China to expand its geopolitical and economic influence, including by saddling poorer countries with unsustainable debts.

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BRUSSELSEuropean Union leaders plan to warn Chinese leader Xi Jinping that the bloc is prepared to impose new sanctions and trade penalties on his nation unless it acts to address economic frictions and rein in exports to Russia of goods used for its war in Ukraine, EU officials said before a summit in Beijing Thursday.

While Washington has moved recently to ease tensions with China, European strains with Beijing have sharpened.

In a sign of that growing gulf, as the EUs top leaders flew to Beijing on Wednesday, an Italian official said Rome had formally told China that Italy was withdrawing from its Belt and Road Initiative, the latest European country to do so. The U.K. also announced Wednesday its first sanctions against Chinese companies for supporting Russian war-related manufacturing.

In advance of the summit, where Xi and Premier Li Qiang will meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel, EU officials said they would put atop their agenda Chinas cooperation with Russia and prod Beijing to offer more humanitarian aid for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, where Israel is conducting a large-scale military operation.

On the trade side, European officials will also raise what they say is an oversupply of goods being produced in China and exported to the EU and elsewhere at low prices, undercutting domestic producers. The bloc will try to convince Beijing to take steps to curb that production. If that doesnt succeed, the EU could impose trade barriers, a senior official said, although such a move is considered a last resort.

The EUs trade deficit with China has roughly doubled during the past two years, to more than $400 billion, a situation European officials view as unsustainable and which they say reflects both barriers impeding European businesses in China and Chinese subsidies.

European officials in recent weeks have said that between 70% and 80% of Russian dual-use goods found on the battlefield in Ukraine have come from Chinese companies. The EU officials said that, despite some signs that Beijing has started to curb some exports, they see an increase in sales of some military products of great use to Russia.

The EU has so far steered clear of sanctioning companies from mainland China for providing militarily usable goods to Moscow. Earlier this year, the EU removed from its proposed sanctions list five Chinese companies that the bloc believed had been exporting goods to Russia. The EU did proceed with sanctions against three Hong Kong-based companies.

EU officials said they acted in response to Beijings promise to clamp down on the commerce, a claim that Chinas EU ambassador denied.

However, with the EU set to approve a new round of sanctions against Russia as soon as next week, officials said they would warn Beijing that Brussels will add around a dozen companies to a commercial blacklist if Xi doesnt commit to act.

We would like China to take care of some of the entities that are circumventing our sanctions," the senior EU official said. The preferred option is that China deals with it themselves. But we have tools to deal with it ourselves if necessary."

China has portrayed itself as a neutral party on Ukraine but has echoed the Russian narrative on the war and expanded economic ties with Russia during the conflict. European officials say they will also prod the Chinese leaders to rejoin a peace-talks dialogue that Ukraine established to garner more support for its conditions for ending the war. China attended a meeting of senior officials in Saudi Arabia in August but has since stepped away from talks.

Europes approach to China has toughened over the past few years, although the bloc is divided on how to work with Beijing. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and some others have pushed for closer ties with China and Germany has remained hesitant on proposals that could disrupt its extensive economic links and investments in China.

Beijing has made some recent moves to ease tensions. It is holding discussions with Lithuania about a de facto trade blockade connected to the EU countrys ties to Taiwan. It has also started granting visa waivers for 15-day trips to its five biggest EU trade partners.

EU officials including von der Leyen increasingly see China as an economic rival and are pursuing a strategy they describe as de-risking to reduce the blocs reliance on China for vital products. However, there is a consensus in Brussels and most EU capitals that there should be strong engagement with Beijing. Some European officials believe now is a good time to push for action given that China faces economic difficulties and so may be more willing to make concessions.

Xis clear goal is a systemic change of the international order with China at its center," von der Leyen said in a speech earlier this year.

No joint statement is expected after the summit, EU officials said.

European officials say they want to focus economic discussions on their concerns about the size of the trade deficit with China and the countrys overproduction. The EU has developed trade-defense tools in recent years and can use them to address the problem, officials have said. The blocs executive body earlier this year announced an antisubsidy investigation into electric vehicle production in China, which could lead to tariffs.

In 2022, the EU was Chinas second-largest export market and its top import supplier, according to EU data.

While overcapacity from China, in sectors including steel and aluminum, has been a concern in the past, that is now spreading to critical clean-technology industries that Europe hopes will be at the heart of growth, including electric vehicles and wind turbines.

The bloc hopes to convince Chinese officials to take measures on their own. It is in Beijings interest not to dump products and thereby have markets essentially close for them," the senior EU official said.

Chinese officials have warned in the past that sanctions on Chinese companies could lead to reciprocating measures by Beijing. They have also hit out against restrictions on European high-tech exports to China and warned that the electric-vehicle probe could damage bilateral trade and raise prices for consumers.

If the EU sets strict restrictions on the export of high-tech products to China on the one hand, and on the other, hopes to greatly increase export to China, this may not be a reasonable expectation," said Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin.

The EU is also looking at other proposals that could affect trade with China. Brussels faces pressure from Washington to place tariffs on Chinese steel exports. Officials have also proposed screening EU investments in China to protect the blocs economic security.

Italys withdrawal from the Belt and Road Initiative follows Baltic countries exit from a regional forum Beijing used for talks with Europes smaller member states.

Italy was careful to avoid embarrassing China by keeping conversations on the initiative largely private. The exit decision was conveyed through a written notification sent through diplomatic channels.

The government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made no secret of its desire to withdraw from the agreement, which had drawn criticism from Washington as the West has been trying to contain Chinas economic and diplomatic clout.

The Belt and Road memorandum, signed by a previous Rome government in 2019, was set to automatically renew for another four-year term unless Italy formally withdrew before the end of this year.

Margherita Stancati and Sha Hua contributed to this article.

Write to Laurence Norman at laurence.norman@wsj.com and Kim Mackrael at kim.mackrael@wsj.com
WASHINGTONDuring more than a dozen phone calls to discuss the war in Gaza between President Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a U.S. official, who has become increasingly involved in the administrations handling of the conflict, was listening in: Vice President Kamala Harris.

In her private talks with top administration officials, Harris has emerged as one of the top policy makers bridging the divide within the Democratic Party between a hard core of Israel supporters and groups that are sharply critical of the Biden administrations approach to the war in Gaza, according to people familiar with the discussions.

Among her efforts, Harris has pushed for the White House to articulate more empathy for Palestinians and to focus on a postconflict Gaza plan, the people familiar with the discussions said. That approach has come through in her public comments, most prominently during her whirlwind visit to the climate summit in Dubai, where she said, Israel must do more to protect innocent civilians."

Waleed Shahid, a progressive Democratic strategist, said he saw Harriss comments as a trial balloon" for the administration to adopt a more critical tone against Israel, but they didnt go far enough for Democrats who want to see the administration do more. Many Democrats feel that actions speak louder than words right now," he said.

In the past two months, Harris has talked to several Palestinian-Americans who have been affected by the war, including those who have lost loved ones or recently left Gaza, a senior administration official said. She has talked to Jewish and Arab community leaders and the families of two American hostages who have been released, and she has met with the families of Americans who are still unaccounted for.

Harriss background includes ties to both Jewish and Muslim communities. The vice president is married to a Jewish lawyer, Doug Emhoff, who has made antisemitism a priority in his work for the administration. She also has Muslim supporters within the South Asian community who connected to her personal story as the daughter of immigrants. Harris hosted an Eid celebration at the vice presidents residence earlier this year.

Harriss diplomatic mission dovetails with her political one: As Biden battles sagging poll numbers in his effort to win a second term, Harris has been tasked with appealing to young voters, particularly on college campuses, as well as progressives and nonwhite voters more broadlyall groups that have expressed frustration with the administrations Israel policy.

The vice president has seen firsthand the outrage over the conflict from younger voters during a college tour. A student at Harriss stop at Northern Arizona University in October in the immediate aftermath of Hamass attack characterized the administrations approach to the conflict as inhumane" toward Palestinians to loud cheers and another shouted, Stop making bombs."

Support for Israels military campaign has only grown more unpopular within the Democratic Party. According to a Gallup poll conducted Nov. 1-21, 63% of Democrats disapprove of Israels military actions in Gaza as well as 67% of those younger than 35 and 64% of people of color.

Protesters have regularly gathered outside the White House and followed the president during his travels, putting pressure on him to call for a full cease-fire. Several Democratic lawmakers are also calling on the administration to condition aid to Israel.

Biden has been reluctant to back a full cease-fire, pointing to the need to first win the release of all hostages and warning that any extended pause could allow Hamas to regroup and commit more attacks. Instead, the administration has helped negotiate temporary pauses in fighting.

Harris touted the administrations approach in pushing for temporary pauses, saying in her remarks in Dubai, where she also met with key Middle Eastern leaders, that they had proved to be effective. In the same remarks, the vice president also offered some of the administrations sharpest comments criticizing Israels military campaign.

Too many innocent Palestinians have been killed. Frankly, the scale of civilian suffering and the images and videos coming from Gaza are devastating," Harris said.

Authorities in Hamas-run Gaza say more than 15,000 people, most of them women and children, have been killed there. The figures dont distinguish between militants and civilians. Palestinian militants still hold hostages from the Oct. 7 attacks that Israeli officials say killed more than 1,200 people.

While others in the administration have publicly condemned the high civilian death toll in Gaza, Biden himself hasnt gone as far yet as Harris has. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Monday there was no daylight" between Biden and Harriss views on the topic.

Biden has angered Muslim and Arab-Americans by frequently blaming Palestinian casualties on Hamas for embedding its fighters and facilities among civilians. He also cast doubt on the death toll in Gaza during an October press conference and suggested the loss of innocent Palestinians was the cost of war.

Halie Soifer, who served as Harriss national security adviser in the Senate and is now CEO of the Jewish Democratic Council of America, which is supportive of the administrations handling of the conflict, said she didnt see a difference between Harris and other officials comments. The administration speaks in one voice and that voice includes that of the vice president," Soifer said.

Although Harris has made several foreign trips and regularly meets with foreign leaders, her active role in the Middle East conflict is her first such role on a major international priority for the administration.

Biden, a former chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee who has decades of experience in diplomacy, hasnt previously included the vice president on international crises to this extent. Some Democrats have pushed Biden, 81, to give Harris more diplomatic and national-security-related opportunities, to help assuage voters who are concerned about his age and not as familiar with the vice presidents work.

Harris has dispatched her national security adviser, Phil Gordon, to Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and the West Bank to follow up on her conversations in Dubai with leaders that focused on the administrations plan for postconflict Gaza, which opposes forcible displacement, reoccupation, siege or blockade and reduction in territory. A potential trip to the region by Harris in the coming months would also give priority to that plan.

We want to see a unified Gaza and West Bank under the Palestinian Authority, and Palestinian voices and aspirations must be at the center of this work," Harris said in Dubai. At a certain point, the intense fighting and the phase of fighting will end, and we will begin implementing our plans for the day after."

Wael Alzayat, the chief executive of Emgage, a group that seeks to turn out Muslim voters, said Harriss comments were the most forward-leaning" from the administration. But Alzayat, who attended an Oct. 26 private meeting between Biden and Muslim leaders, said U.S. warnings to Israel around Palestinian civilian casualties and the displacement of Gazans were only effective if enforced through policy.

The proof will be in the pudding," Alzayat said. What will the administration do if and when Netanyahu ignores their calls?"

Sabrina Siddiqui contributed to this article.

Write to Tarini Parti at tarini.parti@wsj.com

View Full Image Kamala Harris Works to Bridge Democratic Divide Over Israel-Gaza War
Uddhav Thackeray, president of Shiv Sena (UBT), on Tuesday, December 5 said he would lead a march to the Mumbai office of Adani Group to protest against the concessions provided to the conglomerate in the Dharavi redevelopment project work. The Maharashtra government in July formally awarded the 259-hectare Dharavi redevelopment project to a firm under the Adani Group.

Thackeray will start his march from Dharavi to the office of Adani Group on December 16, according to an Indian Express report.

He accused the state government of favouring the business conglomerate, Adani Group, by awarding the project.

Several suspicious decisions have been taken to favour Adani Group in the Dharavi redevelopment project. It also includes a TDR (Transferable Development Rights) sale clause which will benefit the Adani group significantly. To protect the interests of the residents of Dharavi, the Shiv Sena will march to the Adani Group office on December 16. I will lead the march," the former Maharashtra chief minister said, as quoted by PTI.

People living in Dharavi need to be relocated in Dharavi itself because of their livelihood, which mostly depends on manufacturing products. The Dharavi residents must get a space of 400 to 500 sq feet each. Around 80,000 to 90,000 slum dwellers are still shown as ineligible to be qualified for the space after redevelopment. I want to ask Adani what he is going to do about it. The government is helping the industrialist," said Thackeray, as quoted by Indian Express.

"Enough information is available about the redevelopment project which raises suspicion about whether the government is trying to give benefit to Adani at the cost of Dharavi residents," Thackeray said.

Mumbai Congress president and former Maharashtra minister Varsha Gaikwad also alleged that many residents of Dharavi have been offered hefty amounts to relocate to distant areas like Palghar.

She also claimed that some retired police officials, who were encounter specialists, are visiting Dharavi frequently and asking local people not to oppose the redevelopment project undertaken by Adani.

Whenever Maharashtra chief minister visits Delhi, the prime minister does not ask him about the people of Dharavi, but he asks him about the progress of the Dharavi redevelopment project. He has only commercial interest in Dharavi redevelopment because many people living here have been offered hefty amounts to relocate to Palghar or other distant areas," the Dharavi MLA said.

She demanded that the redevelopment contract given to Gautam Adani be cancelled in view of "several discrepancies in how the work order was issued to him".

(With Inputs from PTI)

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A day after sparking a huge controversy with his Gaumutra states' remark Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Member of Parliament DNV Senthilkumar S on Wednesday expressed regret over his comment on Hindi-speaking states and said he is withdrawing it.

"The statement made by me yesterday inadvertently if it had hurt the sentiments of the members and sections of the people, I would like to withdraw it. I request the words to be expunged and I express my regret," Senthilkumar said in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.

With his comment, he had intended to target the BJP which recently won assembly elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Later, remarks in the DMK MP's speech were expunged by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.

In response to Senthilkumar's apology, Kirit Premjibhai Solanki who was chairing the House proceedings on Wednesday, said, "It is already expunged but you should regret it. Now it is over."

Maafi Mango slogans echoed in Lok Sabha

Opposition of MPs on DMK MP's Gaumutra remark was one of the highlights of the third day of Lok Sabha proceedings on Wednesday. The parliament session began with shouts of "Maafi Mango" (Apologise) from BJP MPs even before the Speaker started the proceeding for the day in the Lok Sabha.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal sought an apology from DMK MP TR Baalu for Kumar's comments in the House.

"He (Baalu) should first apologise. He is their leader. The kind of remarks he made in this House! Balu should apologise first. How will the House function like this? How can any person say anything in this House and go?" Goyal said demanding an apology from the DMK MP.

Despite issuing a public apology on social media, Senthilkumar apologised once again in Lok Sabha. A day ago, he had called Hindi-speaking states Gaumutra states while saying that the BJP's power is limited only to heartland states.

"...the people of this country should think that the power of BJP of winning elections mainly lies in the Hindi heartland States, what we generally call as ... States. You cannot come to South India! You can see what happened in election results in all the States of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and, Karnataka. We are very strong over there. So we will not be surprised if you have an option of converting all these states into Union Territory...," the DMK MP had said.

The DMK MP had subsequently in a post on social media apologised for his comments in the Lower House saying that he was not using the term with any "intent."

"Commenting on the results of the five recent state assembly elections, I have used a word in an inappropriate way. Not using that term with any intent, I apologize for sending the wrong meaning across," Senthilkumar said in a post on 'X'.

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Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Wednesday, December 6 invoked the name of Uddhav Thackeray for the INDIA alliance s prime ministerial candidate for the 2024 general elections , saying that Thackeray is a nationalist face".

Replying to a reporters query about the PM face for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Raut said: There will be a discussion on this. There should indeed be a face."

However, he refrained from directly putting Uddhavs name in the race.

Uddhav Thackeray is a Hindutvawadi, nationalist face. A person who gets the approval of the INDIA alliance members can be the (PM) face. I don't want to say anything outside which might create any rift in the alliance," he added.

A meeting of the members of the INDIA alliance was scheduled to be held on Wednesday, but it was postponed as many constituents refused to attend the meeting, which was called by the Congress party.

The meeting had been postponed and could be organized on December 16 and 18, said Raut.

The INDIA alliance meeting was supposed to be held today but some prominent leaders were not available. There is a wedding in Mamata Banerjee's house, MK Stalin is busy with the relief operation in his flood-hit state, Nitish Kumar is not well, and Akhilesh Yadav is not available, therefore this meeting will be held on December 16 or 18. The face etc. everything will be decided in the meeting. We are together and you will see its result in 2024," he added.

Many INDIA bloc allies, including TMC, National Conference, Samajwadi Party, JDU and RJD have blamed the Congress for its defeat in the recent assembly elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

On Tuesday, Raut said that Shiv Sena UBT, Sharad Pawar-led NCP and Congress will contest the Lok Sabha election together.

We, the Shiv Sena, Sharad Pawar-led NCP and Congress are going to contest the election together (in Maharashtra). The BJP's strength has not increased. They want to make themselves capable by breaking down others. But people of Maharashtra think differently than people in other states," said Raut.

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Commentary

By Katherine Scott

and Jon Milton

A hundred Canadians are standing in a room together, with $100 on a table. Theyre figuring out how to divide the money.

In this thought experiment, that $100 represents all of the income earned by all Canadians in 2021  a year into the pandemic when governments began to withdraw relief funds that had kept members of the public afloat.

Instead of dividing that $100 equally, where everyone would get $1, one person  the richest in the room  claims $13.40.

This isnt just a thought experiment; its happening in real life.

Thats right  one percent of tax filers collected 13.4 percent of the total aggregate income in 2021. More than one out of every eight dollars went to just one percent of tax filers.

In 2021, the top one percent saw their incomes rise by an average of 9.4 percent. The bottom 50 percent saw their incomes decline  by 6.2 percent.

Thats only the beginning of the story. The real prize, for the rich, was not in their salaries and market income  it was in capital gains, or the increase in value of capital assets they already held. A rise in stock prices  or an increase in the value of your home  is capital gains.

Once we take capital gains into account, the top one percent earned a whopping 20.5 percent more than they did in 2020. The bottom 50 percent of Canadians lost 6.5 percent.

The one percenters took in an average of $223,400 in 2021 in capital gains alone  thats not income they earned in any way. Thats purely money that they got from owning things. It is a payment for already being rich.

People in the bottom half of Canadian tax filers reported no capital gains income. Their average total income after capital gains was just $21,600  only $500 more than their pre-investment income.

The top one percent is, for the most part, a boys club. Just over a quarter of the membership in this elite strata is women, while nearly three-quarters are men. The women who are part of that strata are much less likely to be living in couple families or to rely on the labour market  which means they are more likely to be single, older women with sizable (inherited) wealth and savings.

In 2021, Canadas financial elites rode a wave of high stock markets and real estate values to sizable profits. They scooped up rentier checks and watched their assets value boom. Theres no question as to who won the pandemic  the rich made out like bandits.

Inequality is not some sort of inescapable fact of nature, like the first snowfall of the winter. It is the result of deliberate policy choices that governments have made over generations, and continue to make today.

Every dollar of workers pay gets taxed, but only half of capital gains  the income from buying and selling financial assets  gets taxed. Over half of this income goes to the richest one percent. The federal government could tax capital gains like income by raising the inclusion rate for capital gains to 75 percent  a move which would bring in more than $9.5 billion.

When the federal government gives preferential treatment to financial activity, it widens the wealth gap and costs the federal government over $20 billion every year. The feds could implement a progressive wealth tax beginning on net worth over $10 million, which would bring in $32 billion in the first year and $409 billion over 10 years.

Its time that our governments started making different choices.

Katherine Scott is a senior researcher and Jon Milton is a senior communications specialist with the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives.
TUSCALOOSA, Ala.The Republican presidential primary debate stage will shrink to four participants Wednesday evening, with the event expected to focus on two remaining competitors vying to be the main 2024 alternative to former President Donald Trump.

Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, whose campaigns have become increasingly combative in recent days, are trying to sell themselves as the most able to challenge to Trump as the Jan. 15 Iowa caucuses and the start of GOP nomination balloting approach.

Trump, who has sought to project inevitability about what would be a third consecutive GOP nomination for him, wont be on the stage and instead will attend a private fundraiser. He has skipped all of the debates and lobbied for their cancellation, citing his polling dominance.Also participating will be former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. The last debate featured five participants. This one, the fourth, comes after Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina dropped out.

The two-hour event at the University of Alabama is scheduled to will start at 8 p.m. ET and will be moderated by Elizabeth Vargas of NewsNation, former Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly and Eliana Johnson of the Washington Free Beacon. The debate will be broadcast on NewsNations cable network and livestreamed at NewsNationNow.com and on Rumble. It will be simulcast in the Eastern and Central time zones on Nexstars broadcast TV network, the CW.

Here is a look at how each candidates is likely to tackle the debate:

Nikki Haley

Haley, who has moved up in polls in recent weeks and is gaining support from donors on Wall Street and elsewhere, is likely to be a top target as DeSantis tries to slow her momentum. Haley has sparred with the Florida governor in recent weeks but is more prone on the campaign trail to mention Trump in a negative way than DeSantis.

In the first three debates, Haley won strong reviews for her poise and ability to deliver her message in a mostly positive tone. Her exchanges with Ramaswamy have been sharper and more personal.Last week, Haley won the backing of billionaire Charles Kochs political network. Americans for Prosperity Action is expected to spend heavily on advertising to promote Haley and leverage its grassroot volunteers and data capabilities to help turn out the vote for her.

Haley also attracted the support of a major Democratic donor, LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, who gave $250,000 to a super PAC supporting her candidacy. The donation, earlier reported by the New York Times, was confirmed by a political adviser to Hoffman, Dmitri Mehlhorn. He said Hoffman still prefers President Biden in the general election, but views Haley as the best-positioned Republican to stop Trump.Her campaign has also started to spend its money on ads in Iowa and New Hampshire, where the nominating balloting moves after Iowa. As of Monday, Haleys campaign had more advertising booked between now and the Jan. 23 New Hampshire primary than any other candidate, according to ad-tracker AdImpact.

Ron DeSantis

Despite arguing only he can take on Trump, DeSantis finds himself stuck in a battle with Haley. He is expected to take a tougher approach to her during the debate, criticizing her record as governor and suggesting she cant assemble a coalition to win the nominationone that would have to include some current Trump backers.

During an interview Monday with conservative host Mark Levin, DeSantis described Haley as a last gasp of a failed Republican establishment from yesteryear." He has played up conservative fights over cultural issues and has noted that as governor, Haley rejected calls for legislation restricting which bathrooms transgender people can use. Haley has said those decisions can be addressed at the local level.

DeSantis will also look to use the debate to criticize Trump, casting the former president as having failed to follow through on some of his biggest campaign promises, such as completing a Southern border wall or eliminating the Affordable Care Act. Some of DeSantiss allies think he waited too long to engage with Trump, failing to give voters much of a reason to choose him.

The Florida governor scored points with conservatives for his televised debate last week with Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom and he has landed big endorsements in Iowa, including from Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds. Yet his campaign is mired in internal drama, with a number of officials having left a super PAC that has handled the bulk of his organizing and advertising effort.

Chris Christie

Christie, a strong debater with a long history of throwing sharp political punches, has become more vocal in criticizing Haley and DeSantis. Until recently, he kept his focus almost entirely on Trump, and his attacks on the former president have often drawn boos from GOP audiences.

Polls show him in third place in New Hampshire, where he has almost entirely focused his campaign, behind Trump and Haley. Christie came close to not meeting the Republican National Committee fundraising and polling requirements for participation in this debate, but was given the green light Monday evening. A failure to make the stage would have likely put additional pressure on Christie to get out of the race, as anti-Trump Republicans remain concerned that there are still too many candidates splintering the opposition.

Vivek Ramaswamy

Ramaswamy, a biotech company founder who has spent heavily from his own fortune to finance his campaign, has proven to be a vocal debate participant. His performance in the first debate drew significant attention from voters and the media. His aggressive approach in the next two debates didnt wear as well, however, and his poll numbers have plateaued.

While he has tried to sell himself as a next-generation version of Trump, Ramaswamy hasnt been a serious factor in the race. The moderators will have to decide how much they want the debate to focus on Haley and DeSantis as they weigh how much speaking time to grant to Ramaswamy.

Donald Trump

Trumps strategy of skipping debates might not serve voters but it has allowed him to avoid being pressed on policy positions such as abortion, and to avoid a contrast with younger opponents who hope to make the 77-year-old former presidents age an issue.

Trump has sought to hold competing events during the debates. He sat down with Tucker Carlson as the first debate kicked off in August in Milwaukee. This time Trump will be attending a fundraiser for the super PAC that is backing him. On Tuesday, Trump appeared in Iowa at a town hall hosted by Sean Hannity of Fox News. Trump is hoping for a sizable win in Iowas caucuses to propel him into New Hampshire, where polls show him holding a significant lead.

Write to John McCormick at mccormick.john@wsj.com and Alex Leary at alex.leary@wsj.com

View Full Image What to Watch in the Fourth Republican Presidential Debate
Memories of the Covid-19 pandemic have resurfaced as a mysterious respiratory illness among children emerged in China, the epicenter of the earlier outbreak. Hospitals in many Chinese cities have been operating at maximum capacity the past two months, taking in more than 9,000 patients a day. The alarming scenes from China have put health authorities worldwide on high alert.

This Mint Explainer aims to delve into the causes of this mysterious illness, how it differs from Covid-19, and how health bodies worldwide are preparing to address similar situations.

What caused the outbreak?

The global spotlight turned to the outbreak on November 13 when Chinas National Health Commission held a press conference, revealing a notable increase in respiratory illnesses. Subsequently, the Program for Monitoring Emerging Diseases, a global surveillance system for infectious disease outbreaks, reported cases of undiagnosed pneumonia primarily affecting children in northern China.

Chinese health authorities have attributed the significant increase in respiratory infections to the winter. According to Chinese health officials, there has been a rise in children getting hospitalised since May, particularly in northern cities such as Beijing. These were primarily attributed to known pathogens such as influenza, mycoplasma pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus, and SARS-CoV-2the virus responsible for Covid-19.

How is mycoplasma pneumonia different from Covid-19?

Mycoplasma pneumonia is a key player in the current outbreak. In the respiratory realm, Covid-19 and Mycoplasma pneumonia present distinct challenges. Mycoplasma, a subtle bacterium, causes walking pneumonia, often mild but surging among children as strict Covid lockdowns resulted in lower antibody levels. It leads to atypical pneumonia, allowing patients to remain active while infected.

In contrast, Covid-19 reveals a complex profile with a prolonged impact on lungs, evidenced by its unique imaging patterns and extended hospital stays. Understanding their temporal disparitiesCovids prolonged symptoms versus Mycoplasmas quicker resolutionhighlights the intricate interplay between these respiratory adversaries, urging a nuanced approach to diagnosis, treatment, and public health strategies. That said, mycoplasma pneumonia can lead to more severe lung infections requiring hospitalisation.

How has India, and the world, responded?

The World Health Organization took swift action in response to the outbreak in China. On 23 November, WHO sought detailed information from Chinese authorities regarding the increase in respiratory illnesses and clusters of pneumonia in children. The swift communication between Chinese health authorities and the WHO is noteworthy, especially considering the accusations during the Covid-19 outbreak. Chinese authorities were previously accused of covering up the outbreak and criticised for a lack of transparency in providing accurate information to the world.

The Indian government has also responded proactively, instructing states and Union Territories to review hospital preparedness. The health ministry closely monitored the rise in respiratory illness cases among children in China, emphasising the importance of staying vigilant against global health threats.

In the United States, a small group of Republican senators urged President Joe Biden to consider a travel ban from China as a precautionary measure against the outbreak.

Taiwans health ministry urged the elderly, very young and those with poor immunity to avoid travel to China.

What do experts have to say?

Experts unanimously agree that the recent surge in respiratory illnesses in China, particularly mycoplasma pneumonia, does not warrant global alarm. Maria Van Kerkhove, the Covid-19 technical lead at WHO, has said that mycoplasma pneumonia is not a reportable disease to the organisation. She noted that while cases had been on the rise the past few months, there is now a decline in reported cases.

Kaushal Kumar Verma, dean of academics at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, has said that India needs to remain vigilant against global health threats, in light of the respiratory illness outbreak in China. But he has assured that India is well-prepared.

Moreover, experts emphasise that although some cases of mycoplasma pneumonia may lead to serious complications, the majority of individuals recover without the need for antibiotics. This assertion aligns with the understanding that mycoplasma pneumonia is generally manageable, and the global community need not be overly worried about its impact, as there is no evidence linking it to a new or novel virus. The situation appears to be a localised concern with reassuring signs of a decline in reported cases.

Its also to be noted here that the occurrence of mycoplasma pneumonia is not limited to China. There is an increase in respiratory infections worldwide, with outbreaks observed in various locations, including in Ohio and Massachusetts in the US, as well as in Denmark.
An expanding number of lawsuits are targeting the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy, alleging that exposure to the pain reliever in the womb raises a childs risk for autism or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Whether those cases grow and move forwardwith massive financial sums at stakecould depend on a key issue before a federal judge this week: what scientific claims the plaintiffs can cite in court.

Lawyers have filed about 440 product-liability lawsuits, consolidated in a New York federal court, against manufacturers of Tylenol and generic acetaminophen. The lawsuits argue that drugmakers should have warned pregnant women that taking the pain reliever posed health risks for their children.

The manufacturers say autism and ADHD are genetic disorders and there is no conclusive evidence to support claims that in-utero exposure to acetaminophen raises risks. They are asking the presiding judge to bar plaintiffs from introducing testimony and studies that suggest the pain reliever might alter fetal development.

The catalyst for the lawsuits was a 2021 statement in the medical journal Nature Reviews Endocrinology, supported by more than 90 scientists and health professionals, that called for increased awareness and research into the potential risks of prenatal exposure to the drug.

The plaintiffs lawyers, representing families who have children with ADHD or autism, are seeking to cite scientific research to establish that environmental factors, including taking acetaminophen, can influence fetal development.

There is a reason so many prominent scientists have issued a call to action," said Ashley Keller, one of the lead plaintiffs lawyers for the consolidated litigation. Pregnant women are entitled to that vital information so they can make well-informed healthcare decisions for themselves and their unborn children."

Tylenol is currently manufactured by Kenvue, a consumer-health company spun off from Johnson & Johnson. Many leading retailers and drugstore chains sell their own generic versions. Defendants in the cases include CVS Health, Walmart and Walgreens.

There is the potential for unfortunate, real, and long-term public health consequences in allowing scientific guesswork in courtrooms to inform medical decision-making," a Kenvue spokeswoman said. The drug retailers declined to comment.

U.S. District Judge Denise Cote in Manhattan is scheduled to consider the issue at a Thursday hearing. If she decides the plaintiffs evidence is admissible, it could spark a flood of similar lawsuits. If the companies prevail, the litigation could quickly fall apart.

The science is a big issue and will make or break the case," said Elizabeth Burch, a law professor at the University of Georgia.

Acetaminophen has long been deemed the safest option for pain relief during pregnancy, a fact noted by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The group said there is no clear evidence that proves a direct relationship between the drug and any fetal-development issues.

In April, Cote asked the federal government whether any recent evidence warrants adding a warning about the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy. The Food and Drug Administration, represented by the Justice Department, declined in a September letter to weigh in on the litigation, but said scientific findings on the issue are inconsistent and limited.

Acetaminophen labels currently advise pregnant women to speak to their doctor before taking the drug, but plaintiffs say this is insufficient. Roughly 65% of expecting mothers use the drug, and doctors frequently advise using it over other painkillers during pregnancy, they say.

Given the widespread use of the drug, as well as the prevalence of diagnoses of autism and ADHD, the litigation could grow exponentially if the judge gives plaintiffs wide latitude to establish a correlation.

People are waiting to see if we survive," said Roger Smith, a lawyer representing plaintiffs in the litigation. Once we do, hundreds and even thousands of cases will be filed relatively quickly."

Since May 2022, there have been 34,000 television advertisements soliciting claims, at an estimated cost of $5.4 million, according to X Ante, which tracks marketing and advertising spending for mass torts. In a recent report, the group found that spending on acetaminophen-claim advertising jumped nearly sevenfold from August to September.

The pharmaceutical industry has been pummeled with mass-tort litigation for years, including cases resulting in large settlements by opioid manufacturers and pharmacies which faced allegations that they didnt do enough to stop the epidemic.

This stage of litigation can derail a case. For example, in a case consolidated in a federal Florida court, involving roughly 2,400 lawsuits claiming heartburn medication Zantac caused cancer, a judge said the science wasnt strong enough to move the cases forward. A separate state-consolidated case was later settled.

The acetaminophen case has the potential to be huge but the legal standards for admitting scientific studies and expert testimony are rigorous and can make life difficult for plaintiffs, said Adam Zimmerman, a law professor at the University of Southern California.

Its an incredibly high hurdle to meet in these cases," Zimmerman said.

Write to Erin Mulvaney at erin.mulvaney@wsj.com
When the Center for Strategic and International Studies simulated a war between the U.S. and China over Taiwan, the wargame ended with Taiwan still free, at grievous cost. The U.S. loses two aircraft carriers and up to 20 destroyers and cruisers; China sees more than 50 major surface warships sunk.

What looks like a draw, though, becomes a Chinese victory before long. As Eric Labs, a navy analyst for the Congressional Budget Office explains, China can replace lost ships far more quickly. In the past two years, its navy has grown by 17 cruisers and destroyers; it would take the U.S. six years to build the same number under current conditions, he said.

In terms of industrial competition and shipbuilding, China is where the U.S. was in the early stages of World War II," Labs said. In the U.S. now, we just dont have the industrial capacity to build warshipsin large numbers very fast."

Intensifying security challenges from the western Pacific to Ukraine to the Middle East have fueled debate over whether the U.S. can afford a bigger military. In fact, the more pressing question is whether it can build onewhen its principal adversary possesses vast industrial capacity.

U.S. military spending was 3.1% of gross domestic product in the last fiscal year, near the lowest since World War II. Add the $106 billion President Biden has requested in aid primarily for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, and the total would still be less than the 4.6% spent at the peak of Iraq and Afghanistan operations in 2010, never mind the 8.9% in 1968, during the Vietnam War. Healthcare, pensions and interest on the debt really do menace the nations finances; military outlays dont.

The problem is that even when moneys available, the munitions and weapons are difficult to deliver. In May of 2022, Biden and Lockheed Martin promised to double production of Javelin antitank missiles by 2024. That has been pushed back to 2026. The U.S. announced the sale of Harpoon antiship missiles to Taiwan in 2020. They might not be delivered until 2026. Because the U.S. builds just over one nuclear submarine a year, some legislators worry it will take too long to replace those the U.S. will sell to Australia under Aukus, a technology-sharing pact that includes the U.K.

In the early 1990s, with the Cold War over and military budgets shrinking, the Pentagon pushed defense contractors to consolidate. Since then, the governments emphasis on lowest-cost production discourages the remaining contractors from having the extra capacity needed to surge production, said Cynthia Cook, a defense industry expert at CSIS.

Very few people anticipated the prolonged, high-volume conflict we are seeing in Ukraine or that we might see again against a strategic competitor," William LaPlante, the Pentagons top acquisition official, said in October. We are relearning just how resource-intensive this type of warfare can be, and how dialing down our production numbers, and the just-in-time delivery model, doesnt work in this kind of conflict."

It isnt just defense; the entire U.S. manufacturing base shrank as labor-intensive production migrated to East Asia. There are fewer suppliers, factories, shipyards and, most important, workers available to meet the rising demand.

True, civilian and military capacity arent perfect substitutes; defense products often require specialized systems and skills. That makes the shortfall even more severe. It could take three to five years to train a welder to work on a submarine, said Ronald ORourke, an analyst at the Congressional Research Service.

Echoing the quality problems U.S. manufacturers of semiconductors, autos and airliners have experienced, defense manufacturers suffer from endemic cost overruns and delays. On average, a new lead ship costs 40% more than the Navy first estimates, the CBO says. Delivery times for submarines have grown to nine years from six.

These shortcomings matter all the more because China controls entire industrial supply chains, enabling it to deploy capacity quickly to new priorities, such as tests and personal protective equipment during the Covid-19 pandemic.

It has put that capacity to use in expanding its military. A shipyard in Huludao that builds civilian vessels and nuclear submarines boasts annual capacity in excess of all the ships the U.S. has launched since 2014.

In a report for the U.S. Naval War College, German analyst Sarah Kirchberger described how a Shanghai shipyard launched a sailless" submarine. It was based on French, Soviet and Swedish designs that have remained on the drawing board, whereas the Chinese sailless submarine has actually been built," she wrote.

Chinas weapons are typically inferior to their U.S. counterparts; its nuclear submarines, for example, are noisier. But as military types like to say, quantity has a quality all its own. And the quality gap is closing.

It would cost a fortune for the U.S. to rebuild its entire civilian industry base solely to serve the military, and it might not even work. Cook said the Pentagon could instead pay contractors to maintain excess capacity and parts inventories, or use the capacity of allies such as South Korea and Japan (the worlds second- and third-largest shipbuilders, respectively, after China).

Alternatively, U.S. manufacturers could learn from space launches, which like weapons systems, were plagued by delays and high costs. Then SpaceX came along. Founder Elon Musk ignored any NASA or Pentagon requirements he considered unnecessary, biographer Walter Isaacson has written. Musk sought cheap, mass-produced substitutes for costly specialized parts, such as a valve that cost about 30 times more than the automobile equivalent. SpaceX has helped slash the cost of space launches.

CRSs ORourke said the Musk of shipbuilding was Henry Kaiser, who used mass-production techniques during World War II to slash the time it took to build a freighter. One way to emulate Kaiser and Musk, he said, would be to make the Navy more standardized, modular and designed to be a kit of parts, so that standardized components feed into standardized systems that can be installed on standardized hull designs."

He also points to South Korea, whose builders, drawing on civilian experience, design warships with construction and maintenance costs in mind. South Koreas Aegis missile-defense-equipped destroyer weighs more than the U.S. equivalent, but that actually reduces cost by easing access for workers who install the complex electronics, ORourke said.

To build a bigger military, the key might be learning to build it more cheaply.

Write to Greg Ip at greg.ip@wsj.com
Bitcoin-mining operations slurp up billions of gallons of water globally each year. Estimates vary, but the annual footprint is projected to surpass 591 billion gallons of water this year, according to an article published last week in the peer-reviewed journal Cell Reports Sustainability.

For comparison, New York City residents and businesses consumed 403 billion gallons in 2022, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

Miners use water directly to cool their computer servers and indirectly by running both computers and air conditioning systems powered by gas- and coal-fired power plants that require cooling water. Some of the cooling water used by power plants evaporates and is no longer available for anything else.

Bitcoin mining requires massive amounts of energy. During mining, computers generate random numbers in hope of getting the correct one required to unlock fresh bitcoin.

The greater the computing power, the higher the chance that a company or individual running a mining operation can harvest new bitcoins.

The volume of water used to support the mining is an environmental concern, especially in areas that lack freshwater or are at risk of drought.

We are struggling with water shortages around the world, so having another demand is not something that we would welcome right now," said Kaveh Madani, director of the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health in Hamilton, Ontario.

Madani examined the environmental impact of bitcoin mining for the U.N. in a study published in October and found that in 2021, the operations had a global water footprint of 255 billion gallons of water.

Last weeks article in the journal Cell Reports Sustainability found that global bitcoin mining used 415 billion gallons of water in 2021 and 591 billion gallons this year. The author, Alex de Vries, is a doctoral candidate at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and founder of Digiconomist, an online platform that tracks environmental impacts of cryptocurrencies.

Madani and de Vries each said getting accurate data about water use is difficult and attributed differences in their estimates to having used different data sources and methods.

The U.N. report relied on data from the International Energy Agency and the University of Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance. De Vries used the Cambridge data, compiled publicly available data from 34 large-scale bitcoin mining operations in the U.S., and used estimates taken from previous studies of computer-server operations.

In the U.S., bitcoin mining consumes enough water for 300,000 households a year, according to de Vries.

Texas is the bitcoin capital of the U.S., with more than 28% of mining activity, followed by Georgia and New York, according to a September report by Foundry Digital, a New York-based finance and advisory firm.

Finding a solution to quench the water and energy demands of cryptocurrency hasnt been easy. In 2022, a coalition of environmental groups pressured the bitcoin community to cut its overall use of fossil-fuel generated electricity that requires cooling water, although the results of the effort arent yet clear.

Even though the industry continues to grow, it has become 16% more efficient in its energy use from August 2022 to August 2023, according to Perianne Boring, founder and chief executive of the Digital Power Network, an affiliate of the Chamber of Digital Commerce. Most water used by bitcoin-mining operations is recycled or returned to the environment, Boring said.

Bitcoin miners, like any other industry, have a legitimate right to use water resources responsibly," Boring said. Critiquing bitcoin mining for its water consumption is akin to criticizing homeowners for flushing toilets."

Bitcoin could change its software to require fewer calculations to mine its currency, significantly reducing its need for both electricity and cooling water, according to Paolo Natali, principal at the Rocky Mountain Institute, a nonprofit environmental research and consulting organization. But since bitcoin isnt owned by a single company, that change would require nearly all of the parties involved in its maintenance to agree on a change.

Changing the way bitcoin is mined is a bit unwieldy and unworkable because it will require some consensus among all the holders of bitcoin, or for them to start trading different currencies," Natali said.

Write to Eric Niiler at eric.niiler@wsj.com
Top smartphone manufacturers like Samsung, Xiaomi and OnePlus are constantly trying to carve a niche for themselves in the under 20,000 smartphone segment by launching new smartphones on a regular basis. We take a look at the top 5 smartphones under 20,000, featuring the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G, iQOO Z7s 5G and more.

Checkout the list of top phones under 20,000:

1) OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G:

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G comes with a 6.72-inch LCD display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. The smartphone comes powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset and is available with up to 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of internal storage.

The phone runs on the companys own OxygenOS 13 based on Android 13 operating system. It includes a 200% ultra-volume mode. For optics, the device has a triple rear camera setup.

The camera system comprises a 108MP primary camera, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth camera. For selfies and video calls, the phone has a 16MP front-facing camera.

2) iQOO Z7s 5G:

Sporting a 6.38-inch full-HD+ display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels, the device boasts a 90Hz refresh rate. It comes pre-installed with Funtouch OS 13, which is based on the Android 13 operating system.

In terms of the camera setup, the iQoo Z7s 5G features a dual rear camera system consisting of a 64-megapixel primary sensor and a 2-megapixel sensor. On the front, it is equipped with a 16-megapixel sensor for capturing selfies and video calls.

Under the hood, the smartphone is equipped with an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G SoC and an Adreno 619L GPU. It offers up to 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 128GB of UFS 2.2 internal storage, which can be expanded up to 1TB using a microSD card.

3) Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G:

Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G sport a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 1080x2400 pixels resolution and a refresh rate of 120Hz with 240Hz touch sampling rate. The OLED panel provides a 5000000:1 contrast ratio and 16,000-level dimming. Additionally, the panel also has a 10-bit colour depth and a peak brightness of 900 nits.

Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G comes with a 50MP Sony IMX766 sensor with support for optical image stabilization (OIS), an 8MP ultrawide sensor and a 2MP macro shooter. For selfie and video calls, the handset comes with a 16MP camera sensor.

4) Samsung Galaxy M34:

The Galaxy M34 comes with a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, full-HD+ resolution (1,080x2,408 pixels), and a peak brightness of 1,000 nits. The display is protected by Gorilla Glass 5. Under the hood, the smartphone is powered by a 5nm Exynos 1280 SoC, paired with up to 8GB of RAM.

For camera duties, there is a triple camera setup on the back which consists of a 50-megapixel primary camera that incorporates optical image stabilization (OIS) for steady shots. The camera module also includes an 8-megapixel ultra-wide angle lens with a wide 120-degree field of view, along with a third sensor.

5) Motorola G84:

The Moto G84 5G boasts a 6.55-inch pOLED display with a full-HD+ resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels. It offers a smooth viewing experience with a 120Hz refresh rate and an impressive peak brightness of 1300 nits. Under the hood, it runs on an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 SoC, coupled with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of built-in storage.

This smartphone comes pre-installed with Android 13 and offers a commitment from Motorola for one year of Android updates, along with a three-year promise of security patches.

In the camera department, the rear setup consists of a dual-camera system featuring a 50-megapixel primary sensor and an 8-megapixel sensor. On the front, there's a 16-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls. The device is equipped with a robust 5,000mAh battery and supports fast charging at 33W via a wired connection.

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SINGAPORENvidias CEO said he still hopes to supply high-end processors to China, days after U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo warned U.S. companies against sales of AI-enabling chips to the country in the name of national security.

Our plan now is to continue to work with the U.S. government to come up with a new set of products to comply with the new regulations," Jensen Huang told reporters in Singapore Wednesday. The new regulations have additional limits. We have to come up with new products to comply with those regulations."

The Santa Clara, Calif.-based company has come under scrutiny in recent weeks for seeking to redesign its advanced chips to cater to the Chinese market soon after U.S. officials put out rules to stem sales of artificial-intelligence chips. In October, U.S. officials tightened chip restrictions to shut out the sales of Nvidias China-specific graphics processing units, used by many Chinese companies for cloud and building AI programs.

The latest round of U.S. export curbs had left $5 billion worth of Nvidias chips in limbo, The Wall Street Journal has reported. China has historically formed about 20% of Nvidias revenue, Huang said on Wednesday.

Nvidia is working on a new lineup of AI chips customized for China, called the H20 and L20, the Journal reported in November. The company developed new chips within weeks in the hope of continuing sales to China, according to people familiar with the matter.

The most powerful of the chips, the H20, would fall short of the processor performance thresholds that would require an export license, according to an analysis by Bernstein Research.

Huang didnt confirm the company was working on the chips, choosing instead to emphasize Nvidias acquiescence with U.S. export rules.

Days before Huangs comments, Raimondo fired a warning shot to American chip companies about such behavior, adding that regulators would seek to clamp down on companies moves to work around government export controls.

Our intent is to deny China technologies that can do XYZ, so Im telling you, that if you redesign chips around a particular cut line that enables them to do AIIm going to control it the very next day," she said at a fireside chat in California.

The restrictions on AI chips are part of a wider effort by the Biden administration to curtail Chinas access to advanced chips, AI tools and other technology that the U.S. believes China could use to advance its military and cyberwarfare capabilities.

Write to Liza Lin at liza.lin@wsj.com

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A Biden administration proposal to safeguard swaths of public land from future mineral and fossil fuel extraction has set off a battle in southwestern Wyoming.

Were out there, hiking, running our dogs, working on these lands every day, Julia Stuble, Wyoming senior manager for The Wilderness Society, told The Hill.

But theyre not our lands  theyre our lands that are held in trust for all, she said.

Conflict began brewing over those areas in August, however, when the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) proposed revisions to the ways it administers this 3.6-million-acre swath of federal property.

The BLM offered up a 1,350-page behemoth  a draft Resource Management Plan and environmental impact statement  detailing four conservation and development options for the Rock Springs Field Office in southwest Wyoming.

What surprised activists, politicians and industry executives  in some cases for better, and in some cases for worse  was the preferred alternative promoted by the BLM in the two-volume document.

This pro-conservation choice, known as Alternative B, would preserve the most land relative to the other options, while restraining activities like mining and extraction.

If Alternative B were to move forward as written, it would bar new fossil fuel or mineral extraction leases on nearly half of the land within the Rock Springs Field Office area.

As Stuble sees it, Wyomingites will face one of two fates as the BLM solidifies its plans: the first, remaining a state in which public lands continue to produce fossil fuels, and thus contribute to the climate crisis.

Or we can have those lands be solutions to that climate crisis, she said.

Opponents decry federal overreach, impact on jobs

Wyoming has long been a national bastion of fossil fuel development and resource extraction  providing a hefty supply of coal, oil, gas and the critical mineral trona.

The biggest coal-generating state since 1986, Wyoming was responsible for about two-fifths of all coal mined in the U.S. in 2022, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported. With regards to fluid fossil fuels, the state is the eighth-largest crude oil producer nationwide and is the ninth-largest generator of natural gas in the nation.

Story continues

Wyoming also boasts the worlds largest deposit of trona  a resource it draws on to supply about 90 percent of the countrys soda ash, which is used to make glass, soap, cattle feed, paper, pool products, textiles, medicines and toothpaste, per the Wyoming Mining Association.

Beyond the BLMs preferred alternative, the Rock Springs Resource Management Plan contains three other potential courses of action: one that maintains the status quo, another that favors resource exploitation and a middle-ground compromise on conservation and development.

But if the BLM does adopt its preferred alternative, the agency would classify 1.6 million acres of land  nearly six times todays share  as Areas of Critical Environmental Concern, a strict conservation designation that generally includes all-out extraction bans.

In total, restrictions on new oil and gas projects across Rock Springs would apply to about 2.19 million acres, representing a 305 percent jump from current conditions. The proposal would also prohibit new wind and solar energy projects, as well as rights-of-way corridors  for pipes, transmission lines and maintenance roads  on 2.48 million acres, or 481 percent more than those excluded today. Additionally, the preferred alternative would close 433 percent more land to new coal exploration in comparison to the status quo, while increasing the areas barred to hard-rocking mining claims by 258 percent.

Millions of acres would remain available for exploitation, however: 1.42 million would stay open for new oil and gas projects, and nearly 1 million for new wind and solar projects and rights-of-way corridors.

Grazing, meanwhile, would only face minimal effects: a 0.02 percent cut in accessible acreage.

In advocating for its favored option, the BLM touted the benefits to wildlife habitats and cultural resources. The agency also recognized, however, that socioeconomic impacts would be the largest due to reduced mineral development.

Opponents of the BLM proposal, including state lawmakers and development companies, have decried this potential impact on both Wyomings economy and the resources it supplies the rest of the country.

Trona in particular, thats a fairly limited resource that we have domestically, state Sen. Brian Boner (R), who opposes the BLMs preferred alternative, told The Hill.

Id hate to be more dependent on foreign nations for such an important resource, especially ones that may not share our values or security concerns, Boner added.

Reflecting on the BLMs Resource Management Plan, Ryan McConnaughey, vice president of the Petroleum Association of Wyoming, said in an emailed statement that his organization could live with any of the alternatives other than Alternative B.

Citing the BLMs analysis that this option could lead to 52-percent economic declines and a 73-percent reduction in oil and gas-related jobs, McConnaughey stressed that such development is the backbone of Wyomings economy.

Our stance is that the industry is constantly improving technologies and processes that both reduce the costs of production and lessen the impacts on the environment, he stated.

The BLM should take those advancements into account at the application for permit to drill level rather than a carte blanche ban on development, McConnaughey added.

Boner echoed these sentiments, estimating about 3,000 jobs could be lost in a region with just more than 100,000 residents.

The legislator co-chairs the Wyoming state Senates Select Federal Natural Resource Management Committee, which is sponsoring legislation that would empower local officials to disregard federal policies they believe dont comply with federal law.

The text of the bill, which is still under revision, would involve directing the governor to cease cooperation with federal land management agencies when agencies pursue policies that harm Wyoming, according to October committee minutes.

The legislation would also establish a full-time position within the governors office to protect Wyomings state interests from federal government overreach, per the minutes.

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon (R), too, is among the proposals opponents. At the end of September, he sent a letter to the BLM director, requesting the withdrawal of the draft resource management plan and decrying the agencys preferred alternative as too restrictive.

As this draft stands it will lack Wyomings support, local community support, and will surely be challenged on rigor, Gordon wrote.

The governor pointed to the efforts that have been underway since 2010 to update the current Rock Springs management plan, noting the 12-year collaborative review process is either falling on deaf ears or disingenuously being thrown by the wayside.

Gordon accused the BLM of pulling a bait-and-switch on Wyomingites and warned existing and future partnerships are in jeopardy.

The BLM extended the mandatory public comment period for the proposal a few weeks later  a gesture for which Gordon expressed his appreciation and that he cited as an opportunity for public engagement.

For the BLMs part, Wyoming state director Andrew Archuleta at the time issued a statement urging members of the public to participate in the process, noting such comment periods make our work stronger.

Open and free and wild and intact

The selection of the pro-conservation option as the preferred alternative was shocking to environmental groups as well  although in their cases, it was largely a pleasant surprise.

In Stubles mind, the preferred Alternative B is remarkably protective of the values that we think that they should be prioritizing.

She applauded the BLM for proposing significant conservations in two key landscapes  the Northern Red Desert and the Big Sandy Foothills  that are rich in habitats for wildlife such as sage grouse, migrating mule deer, migrating pronghorn and both wintering and residential elk.

These are places people go to recreate, to hunt and fish and camp, walk around, trail run, Stuble said. Its a remarkable area. Its open and free and wild and intact.

As far as the potential economic impacts from slashing resource production are concerned, Stuble said certain areas that would face closures have low to no potential for oil and gas to be found regardless.

She also stressed the plan would not affect existing leases, which include wells that are currently producing and those that have yet to be drilled.

Stuble further pushed back on criticism regarding the proposals potential impact on employment.

The BLMs analysis for how many jobs would be cut is based on a forecast made in 2011 and was correlated with what officials believed would be the number of wells drilled in the following decade, according to Stuble.

But that number, she explained, was much higher than the actual quantity of wells that ended up materializing in recent years.

One of the only benefits of having a plan take 10 years is you can actually check the work, Stuble said.

A vital link between conservation and hunting

Joining activist groups like the Wilderness Society in backing the conservation-focused alternative are a spectrum of groups ranging from avid hunters and recreators to members of local tribal communities.

Im not sure why theres so much opposition to what is being proposed, Earl DeGroot, a retired management consultant and administrator of the Wyoming Sportsmen for Federal Lands group, told The Hill.

A lot of what is being proposed would be good for wildlife, and if its good for wildlife, its good for sportsmen, he said.

DeGroot voiced his support for the portion of the proposal that would grant 1.6 million acres of land the strictest conservation designation. He stressed that these restrictive classifications would enable the BLM to evolve some wildlife specific management prescriptions, such as protections for migration corridors and riparian areas.

DeGroot acknowledged, however, that many people living in the area have dual concerns that revolve around their enjoyment of hunting and their livelihood from resource development.

Its kind of a battle between whats good for me economically and what do I want in terms of hunting opportunities and conservation and aesthetics, he said.

Dan Stroud, a hunter and retired state biologist, echoed many of these sentiments, explaining that he is generally in favor of the BLMs preferred alternative, but with some adjustments.

We need protection of some very important areas for wildlife and some of the other resources, whether theyre cultural or historic trails, said Stroud, who was a wildlife habitat biologist with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.

In Strouds mind, there are five or six areas within Rock Springs that warrant specific attention  particularly the Big Sandy Foothills region, also known as the Golden Triangle.

This region, he explained, is home to one of the longest mule deer corridors in the nation and has one of the densest sage grouse populations.

Its really important from the standpoint of wildlife and their future that we pay attention to their needs, Stroud said.

For Jason Baldes, an Eastern Shoshone tribal member, the need for conservation protections in Rock Springs extends beyond wildlife to also include centuries of cultural history.

The U.S. governments original treaty with the Eastern Shoshone tribe, he explained, contained the entirety of this high-desert area and included more than 44 million acres before the overlapping states were even established.

The tribes cultural connections to the region include petroglyphs, pictographs, spiritual spots, burial grounds, campsites and relics of a vast trade network, according to Baldes.

We want to protect these places for future generations, said Baldes, who manages the tribes buffalo herd and serves as executive director of the Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative.

The exploitation and extractive industries and the commodification of land and resources is detrimental, he said. Preservation, leaving things as they are, is an important endeavor.

Opportunities for compromise?

While its difficult to predict whether the various Rock Springs stakeholders will be able to find an agreeable balance, Stuble said the governor is assembling a task force to figure out if there is some common ground.

Time will tell in the next couple of weeks as that task force comes together, but there are shared values among people of different interests here in Wyoming, she continued.

As discussions continue to unfold, Boner expressed what he described as procedural concerns about the BLMs surprise decision to back away from a compromise solution.

There was a middle-of-the-road option, which I may not agree with, but certainly wouldnt be strongly opposed to either, Boner said.

Regarding the need to balance development and wildlife preservation, Boner stressed his belief that local stakeholders have been doing this successfully for years together.

The problem is if the federal government comes in and tries to do it their way, youre going to lose a lot of the collaboration you need, he said, noting this checkerboard region of Wyoming also includes private landowners.

Without their support, theres nothing stopping them from disrupting those migration corridors, if they feel like the BLM is also threatening their livelihood, Boner added.

Micky Fisher, spokesperson for the Wyoming BLM, stressed in an emailed statement that no decisions have been made at this juncture as the process has only reached the public comment phase. Until a final environmental impact statement has been approved, he continued, the entire range of alternatives and each component within remains on the table.

Well compile and leverage all the substantive comments to make an informed final decision, Fisher added.

With the public comment deadline of Jan. 17 rapidly approaching, Stuble expressed some optimism about the potential for compromise  and about the BLMs openness to making adjustments to the plan.

You have folks who work in oil and gas field who are out hunting, or who are out driving around and enjoying wild spaces too, Stuble said.

People who are out there recreating in wild spaces, who see themselves as conservationists, are relying on these fuels and these products for our daily life as well, she added.

Baldes likewise said that while he is pleased with the BLMs preferred alternative, he understands there will have to be some compromise.

But he cautioned against making decisions based on commodifying resources and maximizing extraction.

What Ive grown up with is an understanding of finding common ground between Western science, Indigenous science, Baldes said.

Thats often aligned around conservation values of wildlife corridors, migration and biodiversity, and those are more preferable in my perspective, he added.

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US health officials call for surge in funding & support for hospitals after cyberattacks divert ambulances
Crime, Press Releases

By Long Island Published: December 06 2023

New York Attorney General Letitia James recovers over $1.8 million from the estate of former NYC diner owner Dimitrios Kaloidis, who systematically underreported taxable receipts and engaged in a double-books tax evasion scheme, violating the ...

New York Attorney General Letitia James today recovered more than $1.8 million from the former owner of two New York City diners for failing to report more than $650,000 in cash receipts and lying on tax statements. An investigation by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) found that the former owner of the Georgia Diner in Queens and the Bridgeview Diner in Brooklyn, Dimitrios Kaloidis, underreported taxable receipts and filed false tax returns, violating the New York False Claims Act. The investigation found that the diners collected taxes from patrons on cash receipts, however, Mr. Kaloidis pocketed those taxes instead of reporting them to the state. As a result of this agreement, the estate of Mr. Kaloidis must pay $1,878,493 in penalties and owed taxes plus interest.

When New Yorkers pay taxes, they should feel confident that those funds will help support our state's investments in education, health care, transportation, and services all residents rely on, said Attorney General James. By pocketing these tax dollars, the former owner of these diners violated New Yorkers' trust and deprived our state of essential resources. These recovered funds will now go to invest in our state, and hopefully this settlement sends a clear message that my office will hold tax cheats accountable.

The OAG opened an investigation into the diners after receiving a whistleblower complaint. The New York False Claims Act allows private individuals to file civil actions on behalf of the government and to share in any recovery. The investigation found that from 2015 to 2022 the diners former owner, Dimitrios Kaloidis, systematically underreported taxable receipts and the unreported cash was used to pay business expenses or disbursed in $10,000 bricks to the former owner himself.

In addition, the investigation revealed that Bridgeview Diner in Brooklyn knowingly understated taxable receipts on its tax returns by maintaining two separate transactional books, only one of which was reported to the state. One set of books recorded credit card and cash receipts from diner sales in the morning, and the sales taxes on those transactions were remitted to the state. However, the diner also maintained a separate set of books in which afternoon cash transactions went unreported and pocketed by the former owner. The OAG also found that the Georgia Diner in Queens failed to remit sales taxes on cash receipts. Together, both diners failed to report more than $650,000 in taxes.

The estate of Dimitrios Kaloidis, who owned the diners until his death in 2019, has paid $1,187,272 in owed taxes plus interest and $334,307 in penalties. The agreement also requires the estate to pay $356,913 to the whistleblower.

Attorney General James would like to thank the Department of Taxation and Finance for its assistance in investigating this double-books tax evasion scheme.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: December 06 2023

One of the greatest lessons of the holiday season is that you can make a difference at any age  and these amazing young people exemplify that message, Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton said.

Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton (D  Glen Cove) thanked a trio of young philanthropic volunteers for their tireless efforts to make the holiday season brighter for countless deserving families in our area.

Twin brothers Louis and Jake Stagnitta, both third graders, from Babylon have been assisting with the annual Toys for Tots drive at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum for the last three years. So too has high school student Julia Xenia, who hails from upstate Katona, N.Y. They did so in coordination with Oyster Bays John Tabako, who has supported the drive since being launched in Glen Cove 13 years ago by Joe LaPadula and Jon Holzer of Martino Auto Concepts.

During the Sunday, Dec. 3 event, Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton presented the young volunteers with Nassau County Legislature Citations in recognition of their contributions toward making this the largest one-day Toys for Tots collection drive in America. Last years drive gathered more than 166,000 individual donated items, Toys for Tots officials said; this years proceeds are still being counted and processed.

One of the greatest lessons of the holiday season is that you can make a difference at any age  and these amazing young people exemplify that message, Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton said. The efforts of people like Louis, Jake and Julias efforts have been instrumental in making this Toys for Tots drive the amazing success that it is, and I thank them and John Tabako from the bottom of my heart for their dedication to brightening the lives of deserving families throughout our region.
Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: December 06 2023

Andy Sukram was Convicted by a Jury in October.

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney today announced that Andy Sukram, 33, of Flanders, was sentenced to 14 years in prison followed by three years of post-release supervision, after a jury trial found him guilty in October of possessing nearly one ounce of crack cocaine with the intent to sell it.

This case highlights how broken our parole system is. said District Attorney Tierney. This defendant, a prior violent felony offender, was caught committing this crime while on parole. Now he is going back to prison for another 14 years. The legislature has tied the hands of our parole officers by making it next to impossible to violate parole offenders.

The evidence at trial established that on February 1, 2023, Sukram was pulled over on Old Country Road in Riverhead by members of the Suffolk County Police Department. Sukram and the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu he was driving were then searched. During the search, police found cash and crack cocaine hidden in Sukrams waistband. Law enforcement also found two cell phones and a digital scale often used for weighing drugs.

In 2009, Sukram was convicted in Suffolk County of Burglary in the First Degree, a Class B violent felony, and Robbery in the First Degree, a Class B violent felony, and served 12 years in prison. He was on parole when he was arrested in February.

On October 26, 2023, a jury convicted Sukram of two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree, Class B felonies.

On December 4, 2023, Sukram was sentenced before Supreme Court Justice, the Honorable Timothy P. Mazzei, to 14 years in prison followed by three years of post-release supervision. He was being represented by Jason Bassett, Esq.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Danielle Carter and Patrick Fedun of the Major Crime Bureau, with investigative assistance from Detectives Christopher Fiori and Wayne Heater of the Suffolk County Police Department.
Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: December 06 2023

Investigation Recovers Firearms and Over $140,000 Worth of Drugs.

New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced a 94-count indictment charging Rafael Figueroa of Washington Heights, Manhattan with the sale of fentanyl, heroin, and firearms. The investigation conducted by the Office of the Attorney Generals (OAG) Organized Crime Task Force (OCTF) seized more than 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl and over 75 grams of heroin worth approximately $142,000, three loaded handguns, a loaded assault rifle, and three high-capacity ammunition feeding devices.

Drug and gun traffickers put New Yorkers in danger and my office will continue to prosecute those who flood our communities with deadly weapons and narcotics, said Attorney General James. This takedown successfully removed dangerous opioids and firearms from our streets. I want to thank our partners in law enforcement for their assistance throughout this investigation.

As alleged in the indictment, from August 2022 to January 2023, Rafael Figueroa engaged in 11 separate sales of drugs and four separate sales of firearms. The year-long investigation, which began with sales of fentanyl in New York County, spread to Rockland County and eventually included additional sales of heroin and firearms. The investigation included hundreds of hours of physical surveillance, covert cameras, and undercover operations.

The indictment, unsealed before a Rockland County Court, charged Figueroa with 94 crimes. These include various counts of A and B-Felony level Criminal Sale and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, B, C, and D-Felony level firearms crimes, and Conspiracy to commit those crimes.

The charges against the defendant are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The investigation was led by OCTF Detectives Zylona Silva and Luis Flores, under the supervision of OCTF Detective Supervisor Bradford Miller, OCTF Assistant Chief Ismael Hernandez, and OCTF Deputy Chief Andrew Boss, along with investigators with the New York State Police (NYSP) Special Investigations Unit. The Attorney Generals Investigations Division is led by Chief Oliver Pu-Folkes.

Attorney General James would also like to thank NYSP Troops K and F and the Ulster County Sheriffs Office for their assistance in this investigation.
Dramatic vision has emerged of the moment a "rowdy" Australian man was arrested and escorted off an international flight after allegedly provoking other passengers, resulting in a "brutal ass whooping".

In the footage  captured mid-air on board a Scoot Airlines Flight from Perth to Manila on Friday  the man can be seen provoking another passenger, challenging him to a "one-on-one" fight in the aisle.

The service had departed Perth and was headed to the Phillipines, with the footage taking place following a layover in Singapore. The Australian man is understood to have caused a ruckus on the first leg of the journey, with tensions escalating to the point of violence on the second, The West Australian reports.

The Australian man was eventually escorted off of the flight, blooded and restrained. Source: Reddit

'Rowdy' Aussie prompts brawl mid-flight

In one of several videos uploaded to social media from the flight, the Australian man questions why the man behind the camera is filming, and imploring him to "get your camera off". The man responds: "I'll beat your ass  I'll knock you out for sure".

"What the f**k are you going to do," the Aussie man hits back, again encouraging a fight.

Flight staff are then heard speaking over the PA system urging passengers to "please remain seated".

The pair continue to argue for a number of minutes, before the Australian man steps closer encouraging the man to hit him before slapping him across the face amid gasps from other passengers.

The footage then skips to a view of the flight after landing, showing the bloodied Australian man on the ground, smirking while being restrained by police officers, with facial injuries and a zip tie around his legs.

The man who was slapped can be heard goading the Australian man, telling him he was told he'd be getting an "ass whooping". Eventually, the Australian man is seen being escorted off of the flight as passengers on the plane applaud.

Story continues

Witness claims drama 'lasted hours'

A woman who was initially sat next to the "loud and rowdy" man prior to the incident said his antics lasted hours during both legs of the flight. She eventually moved from the drama, warning staff about his behaviour.

The man was eventually escorted off the flight as passengers applauded. Source: Reddit.

"The [Aussie man] slapped him real hard and then it all kicked off," the woman told The West Australian.

"As soon as he was down at least two other guys got involved and a couple of other guys were kicking him on the ground."

She said crew and other passengers restrained the Australian using zip ties.

A spokesperson for Scoot Airlines said they were aware of the incident.

"Due to unruly behaviour, a passenger was restrained and handed over to local authorities upon arrival," the spokesperson said. "Subsequently, the passenger was denied entry into The Philippines and returned to Perth on December 2, 2023."

It's unclear whether the man is facing any charges.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

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Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: December 06 2023

These five defendants lured Peng Cheng Li to a location with the intent to hold him for ransom, assaulting him and transporting him to the resulting of his death," said U.S. Attorney Damian Williams.

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 Edward A. Caban, the Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the unsealing of an Indictment charging DONXING ZHENG, WANGCHAO HE, a/k/a Ah Chao, JIANGNAN LIN, a/k/a Xiao Pang, a/k/a Little Fatty, DONG LIU, a/k/a Ah Dong, and SUI ZHANG, a/k/a 60, with kidnapping resulting in the death of Peng Cheng Li (the Victim), kidnapping conspiracy, and conspiring to distribute ketamine. HE, LIN, LIU, and ZHANG were arrested today and will be presented before U.S. Magistrate Judge Victoria Reznik. ZHENG was arrested on a complaint on July 31, 2023, and presented on August 1, 2023, before Judge Reznik. ZHENG will be arraigned on the Indictment at a later date.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: As alleged, these five defendants lured Peng Cheng Li to a location with the intent to hold him for ransom, assaulting him and transporting him to the resulting of his death. Todays arrest is a testament to my Offices dedication to protecting the safety and security of our citizens and pursuing those who dare violate that to justice.

FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Smith said: These five defendants deprived the victim Peng Cheng Li of his freedom and ultimately his life when they allegedly kidnapped, assaulted, and murdered him in a failed attempt to collect a payment. This type of barbaric behavior has no place in our society and will not be tolerated. The FBI will be sure that anyone attempting to use violence to make money will be brought to justice.

NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban said: As demonstrated by this case, the dangerous combination of illicit drugs and brutal violence will never be tolerated in New York City. Todays charges are the next step in our journey toward justice for Mr. Li. The tireless work of NYPD investigators, FBI agents, and prosecutors from the office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District will ensure that all involved in these grievous crimes are held accountable for their despicable acts.

As alleged in public court filings and the Indictment unsealed today in White Plains federal court:

On or about July 19, 2023, ZHENG, HE, LIN, LIU, ZHANG, and others known and unknown used an Internet-based cellphone application to call a restaurant to lure the Victim, an employee of the restaurant, to a location in Flushing, Queens. When the Victim arrived at that location, ZHENG, HE, LIN, LIU, ZHANG, and others known and unknown abducted, assaulted, and held the Victim for the promise of payment. Thereafter, ZHENG and others known and unknown drove the Victim through, among other locations, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Westchester County, and eventually took the Victim to New Hampshire. At some point after he was abducted, the Victim died, and ZHENG and others known and unknown buried the Victims body in a forest in New Hampshire.

HE, 29, LIN, 22, LIU, 35, ZHANG, 22, and ZHENG, 28, all of Queens, New York, are each charged with kidnapping resulting in death, which carries a maximum potential sentence of death or life in prison; kidnapping conspiracy, which carries a maximum potential sentence of life in prison; and conspiracy to distribute ketamine, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 10 years in prison.

The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as the sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge.

Mr. Williams praised the work of the FBI and the NYPD.

This case is being handled by the Offices White Plains Division. Assistant U. S. Attorneys Ryan W. Allison and Jared D. Hoffman are in charge of the prosecution.
Former NYPD Officer Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess With Intent to Distribute Cocaine

Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: December 06 2023

Amaury Abreu, 37, faces up to 20 years in prison.

Earlier today, Amaury Abreu, a former police officer with the New York City Police Department (NYPD), pleaded guilty at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn to one count of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine. Between approximately January 2016 and October 2020, Abreu assisted a multinational drug trafficking organization (DTO) with distributors in the New York-metropolitan area and the Dominican Republic. When sentenced, Abreu faces up to 20 years in prison.

Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced the guilty plea.

Rather than protect and serve, Officer Abreu helped drug traffickers distribute large amounts of cocaine in the Eastern District of New York by giving them confidential law enforcement information. That was a disgraceful breach of public trust, stated United States Attorney Peace. Todays plea should send the message that police officers who betray the shield and violate the law will be held to account. No one is above the law.

United States Attorney Peace thanked the New York City Police Department, Internal Affairs Bureau, Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Nassau County District Attorneys Office for their assistance in the investigation.

According to the indictment and other court filings, the DTO imported multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine into the United States through a variety of means, including by sending drug couriers on flights to the United States, concealing narcotics in mail and tractor trucks that enter the United States from Mexico, and concealing narcotics in produce shipments that are imported into the United States. Since 2016, law enforcement agents seized more than 350 kilograms of cocaine belonging to the DTO.

During the charged time period, Abreu abused his position as a police officer to protect his co-conspirators by providing information to the DTO about law enforcement procedures, performing warrant checks on members of the DTO using the NYPD arrest database and, on at least one occasion, receiving cocaine from the DTO.

The investigation was led by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, New York City Police Department, Internal Affairs Bureau and the Nassau County District Attorneys Office.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: December 06 2023

South Fork Wind Becomes First Utility-Scale Offshore Wind Farm in Federal Waters to Begin Powering Up in the United States.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the successful delivery of clean power to Long Island from the first operational wind turbine at South Fork Wind, marking a historic milestone of the first utility-scale offshore wind farm in federal waters to begin powering up in the United States. The project has completed the installation of two turbines, with one operational, approximately 35 miles off Montauk with all 12 turbines expected to be installed by early 2024. Todays announcement supports progress towards the States Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act goal to install nine gigawatts of offshore wind by 2035.



New York's nation-leading efforts to generate reliable, renewable clean energy have reached a major milestone," Governor Hochul said. "South Fork Wind will power thousands of homes, create good-paying union jobs and demonstrate to all that offshore wind is a viable resource New York can harness for generations to come."



This milestone, which comes just two weeks after the installation of New Yorks first offshore wind turbine, was celebrated in East Hampton alongside joint-venture partners rsted and Eversource, state, county and local officials, advocates and community members. When complete, South Fork Wind will generate approximately 130 megawatts of renewable energy, enough to power approximately 70,000 Long Island homes. The renewable energy from South Fork Wind will eliminate up to six million tons of carbon emissions each year, the equivalent of taking 60,000 cars off the road.



Long Island Power Authority CEO, Thomas Falcone, said, Today marks a significant step towards implementing Governor Hochuls vision of a sustainable and resilient energy future for New York. Nearly eight years in the making, this first offshore wind turbine producing energy transforms that vision into a reality. LIPA is proud to support this landmark project on behalf of our 1.2 million customers on Long Island and in the Rockaways.



New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, This moment represents years of hard work, vision, and the courage to lead in our energy transition. Long Island residents are now experiencing first-hand the benefits of their homes and businesses being powered with clean, renewable electricity from South Fork Wind, and we congratulate the teams at Orsted, Eversource, LIPA, the local leaders and the workers who built this incredible project on celebrating first power today.



Chair of the New York State Public Service Commission Rory M. Christian said, Todays delivery of clean, renewable electricity to Long Island is a major milestone in progress toward creating a clean-energy economy in New York State. Its proof-positive that we will be able to reach our long-term goals to create a cleaner energy grid and a testament to Governor Hochuls efforts to date.



Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said, South Fork Wind is a major step forward in achieving the Governors clean energy goals. The nation is watching New York as we once again take the lead in offshore wind and continue to trailblaze toward a more sustainable future for New Yorks communities. Thousands of Long Island households can now say theyre significantly reducing their carbon footprint. This project is a testament to the perseverance and coordination across all levels of government and industry. The Department of State played a key role in reducing the projects siting impacts, creating a responsible path forward for this important development.



New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, Thanks to the support of Governor Hochul and the efforts of DECs partners at LIPA and NYSERDA, New York State is taking critical steps to reduce climate-altering greenhouse gas emissions while creating jobs and bolstering local economies. The successful delivery of wind-powered energy to Long Islands South Fork is a notable milestone in moving New Yorkers toward a green future powered by cleaner sources of energy.



rsted Group EVP and CEO Americas David Hardy said, East Hampton has now made history as the first community in New York to receive clean energy from an offshore wind farm. South Fork Wind is not just a trailblazing project for the state, its also one of the foundations of Americas offshore wind energy industry and a testament to our teams commitment, expertise and hard work. Thanks to the leadership of the Biden and Hochul administrations, and our state and local partners and supporters, South Fork Wind is powering up and setting the stage for a growing American industry.



Eversource Energy Chairman, President and CEO Joe Nolan said, South Fork Wind is a project by New Yorkers, for New Yorkers. Clean, renewable offshore wind energy is now flowing to the local grid in East Hampton thanks especially to the hard work of local union workers and contractors who helped us build South Fork Winds transmission system and onshore substation. This has been a year of firsts for New Yorks offshore wind industry, and theres a lot more to come in the weeks ahead for this groundbreaking project and the growth of the U.S. offshore wind sector.



First approved by the LIPA Board of Trustees in 2017, South Fork Wind began construction in February 2022, beginning with the onshore export cable system that links the project to the LIPA energy grid, which was completed early this year. The wind farm reached its steel in the water milestone in June 2023 with the installation of the projects first monopile foundation. Van Oords offshore installation vessel, the Aeolus, is installing the turbines.



South Fork Wind includes the first U.S.-built offshore wind substation. More than 350 U.S. workers across three states supported construction of this offshore substation, a topside structure that collects the power produced by wind turbines and connects it to the grid. New York union workers supported its installation offshore.



Long Island-based contractor Haugland Energy Group LLC (an affiliate of Haugland Group LLC), installed the underground duct bank system for South Fork Winds onshore transmission line and led the construction of the projects onshore interconnection facility. LS Cable installed and jointed the onshore cables with support from Long Islands Elecnor Hawkeye. The onshore cable scope of work alone created more than 100 union jobs for Long Island skilled trades workers. Roman Stone, also on Long Island, manufactured concrete mattresses to protect the undersea cables, and Ljungstrom, located in western New York, in partnership with Riggs Distler & Company, Inc., provided specialized structural steelwork.



State Senator Anthony Palumbo said, Today is an important step in meeting New York State's renewable energy goals and providing Long Islanders with lower cost, reliable clean power. Renewable power is a critical component of our energy future, and the State must work to ensure that New Yorkers continue to benefit from all aspects of this transition - from job opportunities to affordable energy, to a cleaner environment.



Assemblymember Fred W. Thiele Jr., said There can be no doubt anymore that climate change is real. Every day, we are seeing the adverse impacts on eastern Long Island and across the globe. New York State has been a leader in policy innovation attacking climate change. The enactment of the New York State Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which I co-sponsored, established aggressive goals to substantially reduce carbon emissions by 2050 by replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy, like wind power. This project marks a significant first step toward reaching our climate goals.



Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said, Suffolk County is proud to be a national leader in clean and renewable energy. Through the collaboration and leadership of Governor Hochul, our regional officials and community stakeholders, we remain at the forefront of the offshore wind industry, helping to ensure the long-term sustainability and economic growth of our region.



East Hampton Town Supervisor Peter Van Scoyoc said, The onset of production of clean, renewable wind power from the South Fork Wind turbines, and its delivery to our local electric grid system in East Hampton, is an exciting milestone that advances East Hampton Towns comprehensive renewable energy goals as well as those of New York State. East Hampton Town is pleased to have worked with Orsted and Eversource to accomplish this goal.



New York League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe said, Today marks a major step for New Yorks transition away from fossil fuels and toward a clean energy future. After years of planning and countless hours of labor and construction  many of those union hours  clean electricity from offshore wind has finally come ashore. With Governor Hochuls bold environmental leadership, and with smart and innovative companies like Orsted and Eversource that are committed to developing  and capable of delivering  large-scale renewable energy projects, we know this is just the beginning.



New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento said, We applaud Governor Hochul for achieving this milestone. It is a testament to her commitment to ensuring New York meets its clean energy goals. We look forward to working with the Governor to ensure that our renewable energy future is built, operated, maintained, repaired, and manufactured by workers who earn good wages, and enjoy the benefits and protections guaranteed by union contracts.



New York State Building Trades President Gary LaBarbera said, Today marks a significant milestone in New Yorks pursuit of its renewable energy goals and the establishment of a clean energy future that bolsters middle class careers, ignites economic growth and provides a greener environment for future generations to thrive in. The first delivery of clean energy to Long Island via South Fork is only the beginning of what offshore wind can bring to the table, and we are proud that our tradesmen and tradeswomen played a role in skillfully and efficiently assembling the first operational turbines in this critical project. They look forward to continuing their work get all 12 turbines generating wind power in the coming months, all while pursuing a union career that allows them to provide for their families and drive economic stimulus to their communities.



Long Island Federation of Labor President John R. Durso said, This project is being constructed with union labor. We expect it to be operated with union labor. This announcement, and the eventual completion of South Fork Wind, is proof positive we can address the climate crisis and create good union jobs in the process. We look forward to working with New York State, the offshore wind industry, and all other stakeholders who are interested in a brighter future with good family sustaining wages.



Long Island Association President & CEO Matt Cohen said, Long Island has made history and is officially the offshore wind capital of the country, and I congratulate Governor Hochul, the rsted and Eversource team, and the Long Island Power Authority on their successful public-private partnership and for not only delivering clean energy to the grid, but also for creating thousands of jobs and shepherding opportunities for small businesses.



Building and Construction Trades Council of Nassau and Suffolk Counties President Matthew Aracich said, I commend Governor Hochul for her persistent drive to bring offshore wind to market. Governor Hochuls determination and vision continue to elevate New York States collaboration with skilled labor, creating the first utility-scale offshore wind farm in federal waters along the eastern seaboard. This climate-altering project represents a new economic opportunity providing choices for the next generation of local workers, who are seeking good-paying, stable careers which will provide the ability to remain employed on Long Island. As a result of this market demand, the offshore wind industry has partnered with labor to provide a pathway leading directly to the Building and Construction Trades through apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeship programs like Opportunities Long Island. Unlike the shrinking workforce of many other communities around the country, our local Building Trades Council has grown significantly and in no small part due to the labor demand from Orsted/Eversource within the offshore wind industry.



New York Offshore Wind Alliance Director Fred Zalcman said, It is remarkable to witness the graceful turn of the turbines at the South Fork Wind Farm as it achieves first power, supplying the New York grid with the first of what promises to be a boundless supply of offshore wind energy. But this seemingly effortless conversion of the ocean breezes into carbon free electricity would not have been possible but for the vision of the Hochul Administration and countless leaders at all levels of government, the tremendous community support for this project as a means of transitioning to a clean energy future on the East End, and the perseverance of the project developers, Orsted and Eversource, in overcoming any and all obstacles, from pandemics to global supply chain challenges, that stood in the way. South Fork today joins the ranks of New York's signature infrastructure projects, and as with those projects, we stand to reap the benefits for generations to come.



Win With Wind Founder Judith Hope said, Our team of East Hampton citizens is thrilled to have been a part of this historic effort. We believe that active local support is essential to the future success of offshore wind in New York State.



Citizens Campaign for the Environment Executive Director Adrienne Esposito said, This is truly thrilling and historic. As the turbines turn, we also turn a page in the history of energy production. Wind turbines are beacons of hope for a cleaner, safer energy supply which benefits every New Yorker. CCE has supported offshore wind for 18 years and now to see it finally implemented is a dream turned into reality. A giant thank you to Governor Hochul and the NYSERDA team who have championed this landmark transition for a better future.



Association for a Better Long Island Executive Director Kyle Strober said, The powering up of the Southfork Wind Farm is not only an historic moment for Long Island but also our nation. This trailblazing project moves us closer to a renewable energy future and is made possible through the collaboration of the state, Orsted, Eversource, and local community and business leaders. Congratulations to Governor Hochul, the LIPA Board, and all involved parties. The Association for a Better Long Island is proud to support this initiative, recognizing its significant impact on our journey towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future.



Renewable Long Island Executive Director Gordian Raacke said, Renewable Energy Long Island has been working alongside LIPA, rsted, East Hampton, and many other stakeholders for years to see the completion of the South Fork Wind project. This is exactly what New York State needs to meet the aggressive targets and timelines established in the state's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. It's great to know that homes are now using clean, renewable energy, immediately reducing our carbon emissions.



Todays announcement builds on the momentum established by the Governors announcement earlier this month, which publicized the largest state investment in renewable energy in United States history. The conditional awards included three offshore wind and 22 land-based renewable energy projects totaling 6.4 gigawatts of clean energy, enough to power 2.6 million New York homes and deliver approximately 12 percent of New Yorks electricity needs once completed. When coupled with two marquee offshore wind blade and nacelle manufacturing facilities, this portfolio of newly announced projects is expected to create approximately 8,300 family-sustaining jobs and spur $20 billion in economic development investments statewide, including developer-committed investments to support disadvantaged communities.



New York State's Nation-Leading Climate Plan

New York State's nation-leading climate agenda calls for an orderly and just transition that creates family-sustaining jobs, continues to foster a green economy across all sectors and ensures that at least 35 percent, with a goal of 40 percent, of the benefits of clean energy investments are directed to disadvantaged communities. Guided by some of the nations most aggressive climate and clean energy initiatives, New York is on a path to achieving a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040, including 70 percent renewable energy generation by 2030, and economywide carbon neutrality by mid-century. A cornerstone of this transition is New York's unprecedented clean energy investments, including more than $55 billion in 145 large-scale renewable and transmission projects across the state, $6.8 billion to reduce building emissions, $3.3 billion to scale up solar, nearly $3 billion for clean transportation initiatives, and over $2 billion in NY Green Bank commitments. These and other investments are supporting more than 165,000 jobs in New Yorks clean energy sector in 2021 and over 3,000 percent growth in the distributed solar sector since 2011. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, New York also adopted zero-emission vehicle regulations, including requiring all new passenger cars and light-duty trucks sold in the State be zero emission by 2035. Partnerships are continuing to advance New Yorks climate action with nearly 400 registered and more than 100 certified Climate Smart Communities, nearly 500 Clean Energy Communities, and the States largest community air monitoring initiative in 10 disadvantaged communities across the state to help target air pollution and combat climate change.
An IDF soldier in Gaza on Monday, December 4. (IDF)

On December 5 as Hamas continued to fire rockets at Israeli cities, the IDF expanded operations in Gaza to include Khan Younis, the hometown of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. The day, which included extreme thunderstorms across Israel, saw IDF troops fighting in two cities in the Gaza Strip: Gaza City in the north and Khan Younis in the south. IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said on December 5 that Israel has struck more than 20,000 targets in Gaza and eliminated an estimated 6,000 Hamas terrorists since the war began.

On Tuesday, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi put out a long statement detailing the IDFs operations in Gaza and other important issues. He focused on the renewal of fighting over the last few days. 60 days after the war began, our forces are now encircling the Khan Yunis area in the southern Gaza Strip, he said. Many Hamas operatives, including senior commanders, have been eliminated in recent days. We have moved to the third phase of the ground operations. The IDFs commander of Southern Command, Major General Yaron Finkelman, also described the Gaza fighting as taking place in three key areas on Tuesday: the heart of Jabalya, in the heart of Shujaiya, and now also in the heart of Khan Yunis. Jabalya and Shujaiya are neighborhoods north and southwest of Gaza city, respectively. Finkelman described the battles on December 5 as among the most intense days of battle since the ground operation began on October 27. The IDF entered Khan Yunis on November 24 once fighting resumed after a week-long pause.

The IDF emphasized in statements on Tuesday that it continues to operate in Jabalya, an urban and densely populated neighborhood north of Gaza city. Over the past day, IDF troops operated in Hamas strongholds and destroyed terrorist infrastructure in the area. During the activity, the IDF took control of key military posts from which attacks on IDF troops have been carried out, the IDF said. The Israeli forces also conducted a raid on a Hamas command and control center in Jabalya.

In the neighborhood of Shati, which is on the Mediterranean Sea in the north of Gaza, the IDF continued to investigate and locate Hamas terrorist infrastructure. A video released by the IDF showed a commander of the IDF Nahal Brigade operating in this area and was intended to illustrate how Hamas uses civilian areas. In the video, the officers show how weapons were found in schools and a densely populated civilian area. Much of the population of these areas fled south over the last month. Israel has been warning Gazans to flee areas of fighting.

Finkelman also said that since the offensive began again in Gaza, the Israeli Air Force has carried out two rounds of strikes involving dozens of aircraft from all the combat squadrons. He described how the IDF was continuing to use two large divisions, the 36th and 162nd, that combine infantry and tanks to pressure Hamas fighters in Jabalya and Shujaiya. He called this a multi-front operation, noting the 36th was concentrating firepower on Shujaiya, and the 162nd was focusing on Jabalya.

Halevi described the war in Gaza as one of precision that used combined arms to strike at Hamas. He emphasized that the IDF was evacuating the civilian population from combat zones, a reference to IDF warnings given to civilians. He noted that the IDF is using a large amount of firepower against Hamas: Striking them requires significant use of fire, both to target the enemy but also to, of course, protect our forces. Therefore the forces operate powerfully, while making big efforts to mitigate as much as possible harm to civilians.

Halevi also provided an update on tensions in northern Israel. He said that Hezbollah chose to renew attacks on Israel when the pause in fighting ended in Gaza. Since December 1, there have been numerous attacks in the north. We are exacting a high price from Hezbollah, one that it is trying to hide, he said.

I drove to northern Israel on December 5 to observe the situation near the border. The IDF called up more than 300,000 reservists in the wake of the Hamas attack on October 7 and has kept significant forces in northern Israel in case of a conflict with Hezbollah. Israel also evacuated more than forty border communities in the north in October. Hezbollah has carried out numerous attacks on these communities. For instance on December 5, there was a rocket launch near the border community of Zarit. The IDF said it struck the sources of the fire. A drone was also detected in another area along the border. There were also sirens in the area of Kiryat Shmona and Metulla near Lebanon. The use of munitions from training and from the low-level conflict along the border could be heard during the day.

Israel also continues to face threats from the West Bank. According to a December 5 update on operations in the West Bank, Halevi said the IDF has frequently carried out raids and arrests against terrorists there since October 7. He said that Israel is now increasing the fight against terrorism, in the West Bank. In the last two months, over 1,200 Hamas operatives were apprehended in Judea and Samaria, many terrorists who carried out attacks, some very serious attacks in the past, some that were planning to carry out future attacks, he said.

Israel released 240 Palestinian prisoners and detainees during the pause in fighting with Hamas. The prisoners were released in exchange for hostages held in Gaza. Some of those Palestinians returned to the West Bank. The IDF said on December 5 that Hamas holds 138 hostages in Gaza. In addition, 408 IDF soldiers have been killed in fighting since October 7.

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.
A US backpacker has called out Aussie businesses that she claims are targeting foreigners and forcing people into "free labour".

The woman branded the practice a huge scam after she was asked to carry out several trials to secure employment, one of which she says she was paid for with a slice of banana bread. She added that an office-based business asked her to carry out a two-week trial  which she alleges would have been unpaid.

Dont move to Australia if youre not okay with giving away free labour, the woman warned her online following. For any job you get here, you have to do a trial shift... While I understand the value of it, I think its kind of f***ed up.

Lili has warned those coming to Australia to be prepared to give away 'free labour'. Source: TikTok

Aussies clap back at claims of forced labour

In a video posted to her TikTok, Lili warned people thinking of coming to Australia that "for any job" a person has to do a trial shift but hundreds of Aussies quickly responded to let her know this is not always the case. "Funny how people have one experience and just assume thats the way it is I have never done a free trial," shared one person.

Most people responded that unpaid trials are actually against the law entirely. "You must be paid for trial shifts, its the law. Also never heard of trial shifts outside service industry jobs," another said.

Despite this common belief, there are some situations where unpaid work is allowed.

Responding to one comment, Lili said: "I think there is a huge scam going on where they take advantage of foreigners with trial shifts its so frustrating."

Unpaid work for skill demonstration is legal in Australia

According to the Fair Work Ombudsman's website, a brief work trial can be legally unpaid if it is necessary to evaluate someone's suitability for the job, the person is not an employee, and:

Story continues

it involves no more than a demonstration of the person's skills that are relevant to the vacant position

it is only for as long as needed to demonstrate the skills required for the job. This will be dependent on the nature and complexity of the work, but could range from an hour to one shift

the person is under direct supervision of the potential employer for the entire trial.

Anything beyond what is reasonably required to demonstrate the skills required for the job must be paid and unpaid work trials can easily become illegal if any sort of employment relationship is formed.

If an employment relationship exists unpaid work is illegal

If an employment relationship exists, then an employee is required under law to be remunerated for their work and it is illegal to ask them to do an unpaid shift.

The following factors should be considered when trying to work out if you are considered an employee, according to Fair Work:

What is the nature and purpose of the arrangement? For example, does the arrangement involve productive work rather than just meaningful learning, training and skill development?

How long is the arrangement for? The longer the period of the arrangement, the more likely the person is an employee. Although even short engagements can still be an employment relationship.

How significant is the arrangement to the business? For example, is the work normally performed by paid employees? Does the business or organisation need this work to be done?

What are the person's obligations? It's unlikely an employment relationship if the role is not mainly for the operational benefit of the business.

Who benefits from the arrangement? The main benefit from a genuine unpaid work arrangement should flow to the person undertaking the role. If the business or organisation is gaining a significant benefit from the person's work, an employment relationship is more likely to exist.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
Kakuzi PLC - Nairobi-based plantation operator - Says full-year net earnings may be at least 25% lower year-on-year from KSHS845.8 million, or GBP1.7 million, driven by loss in its Macadamia business due to a"significant decline" in demand and price in China, Japan and the US. However, Kakuzi says other crops are performing as expected and anticipates a strong performance from its Avocado business.

Current stock price: 92.50 pence

12-month change: unchanged

By Sabrina Penty, Alliance News reporter

Comments and questions to newsroom@alliancenews.com

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The Ministry of Health and Social Security has launched a Say NO to too many drinks! campaign in an effort to limit alcohol consumption

Too many drinks and you could end up trying to snog your boss, the government campaign warns

Too many drinks and you could end up trying to snog your boss, the government campaign warns  Photo credit: Ministry of Health and Social Security

Too many drinks and you could end up trying to snog your boss, the government campaign warns  Photo credit: Ministry of Health and Social Security

Luxembourg has the third-highest rate of excessive alcohol consumption in Europe, and more than 34% of Luxembourgers say they drink excessively at least once a month, according to Eurostat figures from 2019.

Ahead of the festive season, the Ministry of Health and Social Security is launching a campaign to raise public awareness of the risks of alcohol and encourage people to moderate their consumption and find safer alternatives.

The Say NO to too many drinks! campaign sets out to remind drinkers that there is no such thing as risk-free alcohol consumption. A significant pathogenic agent, alcohol not only has a considerable impact on the health of individuals, but also on society. Alcohol is the cause of 60 medical conditions, including certain cancers, and its consumption is associated with an increased risk of injury, violence and accidents, the ministry said in a statement Wednesday morning.

Also read:

Alcohol played role in one in eight car crashes

In addition, alcohol consumption is correlated with reduced economic efficiency, absenteeism, lower productivity, reduced performance and increased crime. In Luxembourg, drink-driving is the second leading cause of road accidents and was linked to 15 deaths and 36 serious injuries in 2022.

43% drink alcohol on a weekly basis

A 2019 European Health Interview Survey indicates that in Luxembourg around 43% of the population over age 15 drink alcohol weekly, and almost 9% drink daily. That is higher than the EU average, which shows that 8.4% of the population drink alcohol every day.

More recently, a 2022 Health Behaviour in School-Aged Children study revealed that 42.7% of young people in Luxembourg aged between 11 and 18 have already consumed alcohol.

The aim of the ministrys campaign is not abstention but rather to encourage moderate consumption by saying no to too many drinks. To reduce the risks to health, the ministry recommends no more than two drinks at social occasions.

Among the tips the ministry provides is to set a drinks limit when arriving at a party and stick to it. Savouring alcohol and taking pleasure in making a drink last is another way to limit consumption. The campaign recommends alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks throughout the evening and making sure you have eaten before and while consuming alcohol.

Drinking alternatives such as mocktails  the campaign includes a recipe for a drink based on pineapple juice with ginger and rosemary  and choosing to have periods without consuming alcohol are also among the recommendations.

The campaign is also targeting employers, encouraging them to offer alcohol-free options at end-of-year parties.
Last month we covered the brief and tragic tale of Nothing Chats, an app that enabled owners of Android-based Nothing phones to use iMessage until it was shut down in response to security concerns. But another iMessage-on-Android app has turned up, and this one might actually have a future.

Beeper Mini, covered in depth Tuesday by The Verge and others, claims to achieve the same effect as Nothing Chats but in an entirely different way. Instead of routing in- and outbound messages via a Mac on a server farm (and therefore requiring the user to supply Nothing with their login details hence the worries about insecurity), Beeper sends and receives the iMessages directly, having reverse-engineered the secrets of Apples code.

The hardest part of setting up this workaround, Beeper CEO Eric Migicovsky told The Verge, was cracking what is essentially Apples padlock on the whole system: a check to see whether the connected device is a genuine Apple product. But once that was sorted, the company was left with an app that shouldnt share the flaws of the iMessage-on-Android apps that have come before. All very promising for those Android users who dont like appearing as a green bubble, and missing out on a variety of messaging features, when in a group chat with their iPhone-using friends.

The method as described sounds far too good to be true, drawing apparent inspiration from the Step 3: ????/Step 4: Profit and draw the rest of the owl memes. (In this case, the unexplained step three is how Beeper cracked Apples padlock on the whole system without getting legally crushed, which Id imagine is harder than it sounds, and already sounds incredibly hard.) But The Verge reports that the app works without any issues at all, that you dont need to enter your login details, and that Beeper is so confident in the legality of its app that it has made the code open source for others to review.

It remains to be seen whether that confidence is misplaced. As The Verge notes, iMessages othering of Android users is a feature to ensure platform lock-in, not a bug, and the fact that Apple hasnt publicly responded to similar apps in the past doesnt mean it wont look for a way to take this one down in the future. (Crucially, most of the previous apps shot themselves in the foot with security worries and so didnt really need to be dealt with. If Beeper Mini is as successful as it sounds like it could be, that will only draw the attention of Saurons eye.)

Still, its an interesting idea and one to keep an eye on, whether youre an Android user or a lawyer employed at Cupertino. The Beeper Mini service currently costs $2 per month for iMessage access only, though in the future its expected to be rolled in with the wider Beeper service, which covers a range of messaging apps and platforms, and will presumably cost more. Plus theres the whole RCS thing rolling out next year that might make these sorts of apps unnecessary.
Editors note: Updates 12/7/2023 with an update to Apples Legal Process Guidelines.

U.S. Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon announced on Wednesday that he has requested that the Department of Justice allow Apple and Google to be more transparent about surveillance of mobile push notifications. Wydens request comes after becoming aware of a tip that government agencies in foreign countries were demanding smartphone push notification records, according to Wydens letter to the DoJ.

These companies should be permitted to generally reveal whether they have been compelled to facilitate this surveillance practice, to publish aggregate statistics about the number of demands they receive, and unless temporarily gagged by a court, to notify specific customers about demands for their data, said Wyden.

The request would change the federal governments current policy. In a statement to Reuters, Apple said, In this case, the federal government prohibited us from sharing any information. As a response to Wydens request, Apple told Reuters that, Now that this method has become public we are updating our transparency reporting to detail these kinds of requests.

Apple has updated its Legal Process Guidelines with information on what Apple does when a government requests information. The following excerpt was added to page 19 of the Guidelines document:

AA. Apple Push Notification Service (APNs) When users allow an application they have installed to receive push notifications, an Apple Push Notification Service (APNs) token is generated and registered to that developer and device. Some apps may have multiple APNs tokens for one account on one device to differentiate between messages and multi-media. The Apple ID associated with a registered APNs token may be obtained with a subpoena or greater legal process. Apple Legal Process Guidelines

Apple introduced push notifications to the iPhone in 2009 through version 3.0 of what was then called iPhone OS. System-related push notifications alert users to incoming messages, phone calls, OS updates, security info, and more. But apps, websites, and third-party software can perform push alerts, too.

Why should you care?

The types of push notifications that a user receives can be used to create a profile of a person or can give an idea of what a user has on their agenda. That information is valuable to a government performing surveillance.

Apple makes great efforts to promote the privacy features of the iPhone and iOS, but the Wyden letter and Apples statement show that the company can be hampered in its attempts to preserve user privacy. In this particular instance, Wydens request essentially gives Apple the green light to let you know when a government (domestic or foreign) requests your push notification data.

Reading between the lines leaves the impression that there are many other government requests that companies such as Apple are prohibited from being transparent about. Apple has not made a general statement about government requests, and Wydens letter specifically addresses push notifications only.

It remains to be seen how this will affect future versions of iOS. iOSs Apple Privacy Report feature (Settings > Privacy & Security) provides details on how apps are using your data and sensors; Apple could update it to show when a government makes a data request. Or Apple could make it a separate setting altogether. Regardless of how it will be implemented, it could end up being a showcased feature of iOS 18 at WWDC 2024.
He was one of the first to sign the Treaty of Waitangi because, in his words, he said: By the time the moth has eaten this cloth, its when our people will need it the most, Rena added.
Can a country exist after it has been wiped off the map?

If you ask the leaders of the Pacific nation of Tuvalu, then the answer is yes. Faced with being consumed by rising sea levels, the Pacific nation is determined to protect its identity by creating a digital archive of its culture.

We sat down with the special envoy of Tuvalus Future Now Project, Foreign Minister Simon Kofe, to discuss the race to protect his culture, and his frustration that countries like Australia, China and the United States continue to approve new fossil fuel projects despite their emissions threatening his homeland.

"It is frustrating to see countries not taking strong enough climate action. I think it's even hypocrisy to some extent," Kofe told Yahoo News Australia.

Two years after he addressed world leaders at COP26, Simon Kofe fears his nation's warnings are sounding like a broken record. Source: Reuters/Yahoo

The digital nation plan Kofe is leading was launched last year at COP27 but it has only been recognised by 26 countries. During the COP28 talks, he hopes to double the number of signatories.

We think about our children and our grandchildren who may not have the same opportunity that we have to live on our homeland, he said.

This is part of the motivation why were trying to save our islands, but to also preserve the very soul and spirit of the nation. These two can actually be decoupled  the physical and the spiritual.

What will Tuvalu's digital ark include?

While he concedes the digital nation will not be as authentic, Tuvalu is determined to save its spirit and the values because of the grim situation it finds itself in.

Tuvalus ark will preserve an essence of the nation including stories from elders and the sound of children speaking the local language.

A digital archive will created to safeguard Tuvalu's culture from climate change. Source: Yahoo

Like all small island nations, Tuvalu has a tiny carbon footprint, so it is not directly responsible for the changes in weather that are destroying it.

As one of the worlds biggest exporters of fossil fuels, the emissions Australia produces are a major contributor to climate change, and its Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signed an agreement with Tuvalu last month offering residency to some of its population.

Story continues

But rather than simply rehouse his people, Kofe wants Australia to also give them help to save their homeland.

I need to ensure that Tuvaluans have hope relocation can be used against us. Bigger countries can say listen, you can relocate to Australia, New Zealand and that solves your problem. It doesn't solve the problem. And so we're very careful about using relocation as a solution to the climate crisis, he said.

Australia called out for subsidising fossil fuel projects

Tuvalu wants its larger neighbours to realise the window to avert the worst impacts of the climate crisis is closing.

As you know, Australia continues to approve new coal mines and even goes to the extent of subsidising them. So that really is inconsistent with our objective of cutting down greenhouse gas emissions I would say Australia is not doing enough and in fact it would be going in the opposite direction, he said.

Anthony Albanese signed an agreement to allow some residents of Tuvalu to live in Australia. Source: AAP

With the United Nations COP28 climate talks underway, Tuvalu is working to bring awareness about how the crisis is affecting their day to day lives. But Kofe feels like its message has become like a broken record because the current pledges will not be enough to meet the Paris target of 1.5 degrees of warming.

At COP26 two years ago, he famously addressed world leaders from his homeland while up to his knees in water to highlight the issue of rising sea levels.

But the magnitude of the climate change appears hard to grasp for many large nations which are continuing to resist calls to halt the production of fossil fuels. So Tuvalu hopes it can convince the citizens of those nations about its plight.

If they gain understanding about what were going through in Tuvalu, then we hope theyre able to put pressure on their leaders to take stronger climate action. And in fact, we hope they are able to vote for leaders that really are serious about addressing the climate crisis, Kofe said.

How Tuvalu has been impacted by climate change

For people living in Tuvalu, the climate crisis isnt hypothetical anymore.

We had a cyclone hit us and we we had very strong wave surges that came across our islands and the graveyards were actually upended, and we had bones floating around in the village on one of the islands, Kofe said.

That was because of a very strong storm that we experienced. And so these are going to be frequent if we do not address the climate crisis.

Droughts will become more severe, and in Tuvalu we depend on rainwater for drinking so you can imagine what happens if we go without water for a month it has an impact on life, both humans, animals, and plants and trees. Everything depends on that.

Tuvalu determined to fight for future

Asked whether the inaction by larger nations is impacting the mental health of his people, Kofe indicated they will continue to fight.

The thought of losing your home will have a psychological impact on people, he said.

But you know, Tuvaluans are resilient people. We lived for centuries in very harsh conditions, our ancestors were navigators, we travelled from place to place finding a place to live.

Our people are resilient people.

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Manchester, VT (05254)

Today

Cloudy skies with afternoon snow showers. Temps nearly steady in the mid 30s. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 40%..

Tonight

Cloudy with snow showers mainly during the evening. Low 31F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 40%.
On the evening of December 5th, the Anhui Opera "The Story of Liu Ming-chuan" met with the audience in the Jiangsu Zijin Grand Theater. This performance was the first show of the "New Era, New Huiban (opera troupes from Anhui), New Outlook" Exhibition of High-Quality Plays in the Yangtze River Delta region. The "New Era, New Huiban, New Outlook" Exhibition of High-Quality Plays, jointly organized by the Publicity Department of CPC Anhui Provincial Committee, Anhui Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, and Anhui Provincial Federation of Literary and Art Circles, kicked off on November 29th in Beijing. As the first performance of the "New Era, New Huiban, New Outlook" Exhibition of High-Quality Plays, the Anhui Opera "The Story of Liu Ming-chuan" made its debut in Beijing and received a warm response from the audience. During the two-hour performance, the actors of Anhui Huijing Opera Theatre presented to the audience an image of a patriotic general who was resourceful, brave and righteous with solid skills and exquisite performances. "This is my first time watching an Anhui Opera performance live, and I am truly amazed by the actors' appearances, vocal styles, and the stage lighting and design. As a high-quality exhibition repertoire, it truly deserves its reputation." Xiaoxue, a citizen of Nanjing, expressed her thoughts. "The plot is tightly woven, and the actors' performances are also very impressive. It incorporates elements of both Beijing Opera and Anhui Opera, and I can also hear the local Anhui singing style and performance methods. As a 'veteran' theater enthusiast, I find it very satisfying to watch!" Wei Qiaoning, as an audience member, expressed his surprise at the new Huibans performance in the Yangtze River Delta region. "I hope that Anhui can produce more excellent plays and come for more performances!" The "New Era, New Huiban, New Outlook" Exhibition of High-Quality Plays will continue until January 17 next year. During this period, Anhui will organize eight provincial theater troupes to present 21 wonderful performances in many cities across the country with 12 repertoires, showcasing the achievements of Anhui's literary and artistic development in a high-quality and all-round manner, highlighting the unique charm of Anhui's cultural heritage.

Reported by Chen Xinran Source: anhuinews.com
Two manatees housed at a US tourist park since 1957 were hauled out of the facility on Tuesday (local time), sparking celebration.

The decision to remove the animals from Miami Seaquarium comes after millions of social media users were shocked by a viral social media video showing the males home inside a concrete tank, hidden away from public view.

For months 67-year-old Romeo had been kept in isolation, while his one-time companion Juliet was paired with a younger female named Clarity. Now pictures show Romeos tank is empty, and all three have been transported to new homes at other facilities.

A manatee named Romeo had been kept isolated in a tank for months at Miami Seaquarium (left), but his tank now lies empty (right). Source: UrgentSeas

While some had hoped Romeo and Juliet could be set free, Floridas waterways have drastically changed since they were taken from the wild and placed in captivity.

Why Romeo and Juliet cannot be reunited

Earlier this year an elderly orca named Lolita, who had been kept without the company of her species, died from illness at Miami Seaquarium.

After government agents inspected the park, they publicly expressed concerns about the housing conditions of several of its animals including the manatees.

Clarity and Juliet were trucked out of Miami Seaquarium. Source: US Fish and Wildlife Service

Romeo the manatee was lifted from his tank at Miami Seaquarium on Tuesday. Source: SeaWorld

Miami Seaquarium had been unable to find tank mates for Romeo after it set several males he had been living with free. He could not be penned with Juliet because regulations ban captive reproduction.

But manatee experts noted his isolation had gone on too long, as manatees are a semi-social species. Activist Phil Demers described his situation as "Groundhog Day in hell".

After Yahoo reported on the weekend that the relocation of the manatees with imminent, the US Fish and Wildlife Service confirmed on Tuesday the move was finally underway. The manatees are being relocated to other facilities to receive additional expert care, it said.

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It warned the transfer was high-risk but necessary to ensure the animals future wellbeing. They will now receive veterinary assessments at manatee critical care centres at SeaWorld Orlando and ZooTampa.

This is the best possible outcome for Romeo and Juliet, Miami Seaquarium said in a statement.

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For one day only, college students in Boston can get free coffee and cookies when they take a break from studying for their finals.

Blundstone, which opened its first store in Boston at 73 Newbury St. on Oct. 6, is giving away free Insomnia Cookies and coffee to college students on Thursday, Dec. 7. All students have to do to get the caffeine and cookies is show a valid student ID.

In addition, the first 300 students to stop by the pop-up will get a Blundstone swag bag with essentials for finals season. There will also be a raffle where 10 lucky students will have a chance to win boots.

Undergraduate, graduate and scholars in the Boston area are all welcome to swing by while supplies last. The store is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Global music sensation P!NK announced her return to stadiums across North America with her 17-city 2024 Summer Carnival Tour kicking off on August 10, 2024.

Shell make a stop at Gillette Stadium on Wednesday, August 21. Presale tickets will start on December 7 with general on-sale happening Monday, December 11th at 10 a.m. EST. But fans dont need to wait or stress out about tickets selling out. They can shop now using reliable resale vendors like StubHub and VividSeats.

*New customers who purchase tickets through VividSeats can get $20 off a $200+ ticket order by using the promo code MassLive20 at checkout.*

As of Wednesday, December 6, the cheapest tickets for the stop at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA on August 21 are $119 on StubHub and $106 on VividSeats.

P!NKs Summer Carnival 2024 tour follows the success of her monumental 2023 run which boasted over 3 million tickets sold and a staggering $350 million grossed across dates in Europe, the UK, North America, and forthcoming Australia, and New Zealand dates.

The tour will feature special guest, friend, and award-winning artist Sheryl Crow, along with The Script, and KidCutUp as support across all dates.

Fans can expect to see P!NK perform an epic high-energy set including her biggest hits like So What, TRUSTFALL, Just Give Me A Reason, and more. The tours production will feature P!NK descending from the rafters, with aerial acrobatics, as well as pumping dance routines and vibrant costume changes.

NORTH AMERICA  we had the BEST TIME with you this year, so we HAD to add more dates in 2024 and bring my friends @SherylCrow, @thescript, and @KidCutUp with me  Cant wait to see you there!! Tickets on sale next Monday! https://t.co/1dun5H8oYd pic.twitter.com/G1ATsuLXT2  P!nk (@Pink) December 5, 2023

Here is a look at a full schedule for the tour with links to purchase tickets:

NORTH AMERICAN 2024 TOUR DATES:
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP)  Israel said Tuesday that its troops had entered Gazas second-largest city as intensified bombardment sent streams of ambulances and cars racing to hospitals with wounded and dead Palestinians, including children, in a bloody new phase of the war.

The military said its forces were in the heart of Khan Younis, which has emerged as the first target in the expanded ground offensive into southern Gaza that Israel says aims to destroy Hamas. Military officials said they were engaged in the most intense day of battles since the ground offensive began more than five weeks ago, with heavy firefights also taking place in northern Gaza.

Read more: Lawmakers enter final day of hunger strike for ceasefire in Gaza

The assault into the south threatens to fuel a new wave of displaced Palestinians and a worsening of Gazas humanitarian catastrophe. The U.N. said 1.87 million people  more than 80% of Gazas population  have been driven from their homes, and that fighting is now preventing distribution of food, water and medicine outside a tiny sliver of southern Gaza. New military evacuation orders are squeezing people into ever-smaller areas of the south.

Bombardment has grown fiercer across the territory, including areas where Palestinians are told to seek safety. In the central Gaza town of Deir al-Balah, just north of Khan Younis, a strike Tuesday destroyed a house where dozens of displaced people were sheltering. At least 34 people were killed, including at least six children, according to an Associated Press reporter at the hospital who counted the bodies.

Footage from the scene showed women screaming from an upper floor of a house shattered to a concrete shell. In the wreckage below, men pulled the limp body of a child from under a slab next to a burning car. At the nearby hospital, medics tried to resuscitate a young boy and girl, bloodied and unmoving on a stretcher.

Israels assault in retaliation for Hamass Oct 7 attack has killed more than 15,890 people in Gaza  70% of them women and children  with more than 42,000 wounded, according to the Health Ministry in Gaza. The ministry does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths. It says hundreds have been killed or wounded since a weeklong cease-fire ended Friday, and many still are trapped under rubble.

Israel says it must remove Hamas from power to prevent a repeat of the attack that ignited the war, when Hamas and other militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took captive some 240 men, women and children.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Tuesday the military would have to retain open-ended security control over the Gaza Strip long after the war ends. His comments suggested a renewed direct Israeli occupation of Gaza, something the United States says it opposes.

Netanyahu said only the Israeli military can ensure Gaza remains demilitarized. No international force can be responsible for this, he said at a news conference. Im not ready to close my eyes and accept any other arrangement.

Under U.S. pressure to prevent further mass casualties, Israel says it is being more precise as it widens its offensive and is taking extra steps to urge civilians to evacuate out of its path. Weeks of bombardment and a ground offensive obliterated much of northern Gaza.

The military accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields when the militants operate in dense residential areas. But Israel has not provided accounting for targeting in individual strikes, some of which have leveled entire city blocks and complexes of dozens of multi-story apartment towers.

Military Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi acknowledged that Israeli forces use heavy force against civilian structures, saying militants keep weapons in houses and buildings so fighters in civilian clothes can use them to fire on troops.

Striking them requires significant use of fire, both to target the enemy but also to, of course, protect our forces, he said. Therefore the forces operate powerfully.

Battles in Khan Younis and North Gaza

Halevi said his forces had begun the third phase of the ground operations, moving against Hamas in the south after seizing much of the north. Israel has not given specific details on troop movements.

Residents said troops advanced to Bani Suheila, on Khan Younis eastern edge. Israeli forces also appear to be moving to partially cut across the strip between Khan Younis and Deir al-Balah. Satellite photos from Sunday showed around 150 Israeli tanks, armored personnel carriers and other vehicles on the main road between the two cities.

The past days brought some of the heaviest bombardment of the entire war, the U.N.s humanitarian affairs office OCHA said.

Witnesses said a strike Tuesday hit a school in Khan Younis where hundreds of displaced people were sheltering. Casualties overwhelmed the nearby Nasser Hospital, where wounded men and children were lain on a bloody floor amid a tangle of IV tubes. In the morgue, a woman draped herself over the stretcher where her dead husband and child lay among at least nine bodies.

Whats happening here is unimaginable, said Hamza al-Bursh, who lives near the school. They strike indiscriminately.

Read more: Debate over Palestinian flag in North Andover leads to town policy change

In northern Gaza, the military said its troops were battling Hamas militants in the Jabaliya refugee camp and the district of Shujaiya, capturing Hamas positions and destroying rocket launchers and underground infrastructure.

The battles in the north signaled the tough resistance from Hamas since Israeli forces moved in on Oct. 27. The military says 86 of its soldiers have been killed in the Gaza offensive and that thousands of Hamas fighters have been killed, though it has not produced evidence.

Even after weeks of bombardment, Hamas top leader in Gaza, Yehya Sinwar  whose location is unknown  was able to conduct complex cease-fire negotiations and orchestrate the release of more than 100 Israeli and foreign hostages in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners last week. Palestinian militants have also kept up their rocket fire into Israel.

Fewer places to go

After the full-scale evacuation of northern Gaza ordered by Israel early in the war, most of Gazas population of 2.3 million is squeezed into the 90 square miles of central and southern Gaza.

Since moving into the south, the Israeli military has ordered people out of nearly two dozen neighborhoods in and around Khan Younis. That further reduced the area where civilians can seek refuge by more than a quarter. It was not clear how many people followed the evacuation call.

Nowhere is safe in Gaza, and there is nowhere left to go, Lynn Hastings, the U.N. humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories, said Monday. The conditions required to deliver aid to the people of Gaza do not exist. If possible, an even more hellish scenario is about to unfold.

For the past two days, aid distribution  mainly just supplies of flour and water  has been possible only in the city of Rafah, at the far south by the border, the U.N. said. Locations deeper inside Gaza, including Khan Younis, Deir al-Balah and northern Gaza, could not be reached because of fighting.

Dr. Nasser Bolbol, head of neonatal intensive care at the European Gaza Hospital in Khan Younis, said acute hunger was spreading, with some deaths of children from dehydration and undernourishment, after nearly two months with only limited aid entering the territory, under an Israeli seal.

Gaza is entirely covered in death and darkness, he said.

Still hostage

Family members of hostages still held in Gaza held tense talks with Netanyahu and the war cabinet Tuesday. Observers present said more than 100 people attended the nearly three-hour meeting. Some relatives shouted at cabinet members, perceiving they did not have any immediate plans to rescue some 138 hostages still captive. Nearly half the room left in disappointment before the meeting ended.

During the gathering, five hostages released during the truce shared harrowing details of their experience. One spoke of Hamas fighters touching female hostages, and another said militants shaved off a male hostages body hair to humiliate him, according to a group representing the hostages families. Others said they were deprived of water.

The Associated Press has not been able to verify reports that female and male hostages experienced sexual abuse in Gaza.

It was not a relaxed discussion, said Noam Peri, whose 80-year-old father is still hostage. After 60 days, people are tired and worried.
The Chelsea Police Department is telling residents to be on alert after a credit card skimmer device was found at a register of the citys Market Basket this week.

We have the device and are working with the Market Basket as well as our regional partners to see if the devices are related to other recent incidents, Chelsea police wrote on Facebook Tuesday, Dec. 5.

Consumers are advised to visibly check any electronic device they use a bank card for transactions before inserting their card and to ask for management help if they are unsure, the department continued.

Skimming is a method in which thieves use a device to read peoples card information when they swipe their credit or debit cards during checkout. The device is usually placed over the card slot at registers, gas pumps, ATMs and transit ticket dispensers, Chelsea police said.

A credit card skimmer installed in a Walmart. (Courtesy State Police)

While the devices are hard to spot, police said they are often installed on the outside of machines and look as if they belong there. Sometimes they have an artificial keypad or even have a small camera inside that records people putting in their PIN number.

In October, a skimming device was found at the checkout at a Market Basket and Walmart in Concord, New Hampshire, according to Concord police on Facebook. Skimming devices have also been found at Market Baskets in Somerville, Reading, Haverhill and Nashua, New Hampshire, Boston25 reported.

Some tips to avoid being skimmed include doing a quick scan of the machine, avoid using non-bank ATMs, checking the keypad, blocking your PIN from others while inputting it, using a mobile wallet and checking your bank account regularly.

Chelsea police said anyone who thinks they have seen a skimming device should report it to a manager and police right away.
Last year, the commonwealth lost 433 people to automobile wrecks on the states highways and byways.

In Springfield, the city already has four more fatal or serious injury car crashes this year than last, now at 17 crashes, according to data from the University of Massachusetts Amherst Transportation Center.

Not only are traffic fatalities a source of grief for thousands of Bay State residents, but these losses also aggrieve taxpayers, totaling about $7.4 billion annually for all needless crashes in Massachusetts. The total cost of crashes per year in the U.S. is $340 billion, according to the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety.

U.S. taxpayers essentially pay an annual crash tax of nearly $1,035, said Catherine Chase, president of the advocacy group, which recently published a 68-page report rating the 50 states on their transportation laws.

The ratings come after a countrywide historic high in fatal auto crashes in 2022, the national road safety organization said.

In response, the group has identified 16 safety laws that states can adopt to protect drivers, bikers and pedestrians; the group bases its recommendations on state-level data on crashes.

In the last year, Massachusetts has improved its scoring from the danger zone, or the least provisions implemented, to the caution zone, or some provisions implemented, according to the organizations ratings of laws in place.

Safety measures praised

The commonwealth has adopted six of the 16 provisions the organization suggests for all state Legislatures: a motorcycle helmet law, a booster seat law, minimum ages for permits and licensing, open container law, texting restriction and a cellphone restriction.

Just on Monday, state legislators discussed the possibility of improving several other transportation laws, including seatbelts on school buses and better police detection of impaired drivers.

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of crashes in the country, U.S. Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass., said at a press conference Tuesday about the report.

Last week in Andover, a 1-year-old baby died in a single-car crash, in which the driver said she lost control of her car. Police said they are investigating if distracted driving was the cause of the crash.

Additional measures for which the group advocates include nighttime driving restrictions and offender ignition locks, among others.

Built-in safety

Michael Knodler, the director of the UMass Amherst Transportation Center, said that Massachusetts has adopted safe system thinking into its transportation legislation.

The state is recognizing the value of human life  in drivers, bikers and pedestrians, he said. Equal access to safety is a primary focus for the state.

He credited the state with some of its speed management techniques, but also said, Like anything, there is always room for improvement.

One piece of legislation that Knodler said he thinks the state is hesitating to advance is speed cameras. Its one of the laws that advocates recommend, according to Tara Gill, the organizations senior director of state and federal government relations.

Despite this, Knodler said the state is close to achieving a lot of the provisions stated in the report. Six states and Washington, D.C., rank in the good zone in the report, including New England states Connecticut and Rhode Island. A majority of states, Massachusetts included, fall into the caution zone.

Light in the darkness

When the Biden administration passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, a promise for safer people, safer roads was made, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

But, implementation is slow and stagnant, said Chase. No state has all 16 roadway safety measures.

Markey noted, however, that theres a glimmer of hope from within the hard statistics of automobile fatalities.

Traffic safety deaths have now declined for five straight quarters (nationwide), he said. The only acceptable number of fatalities is zero.
HOLYOKE  Holyoke City Council members on Tuesday night rejected Mayor Joshua A. Garcias $1 million public safety initiative known as Ezekiels Plan.

With nine votes needed to pass, and questions still looming around the plans sustainability, details and outcomes, councilors voted seven in favor and six opposed, halting the measure named after a newborn killed by a stray bullet in October.

In an email Wednesday afternoon, Garcia said the vote on Ezekiels Plan was obviously disappointing.

I am frustrated by the inaccurate characterizations of the goals, strategy and funding that surfaced during the council meeting. My frustration is that Tuesdays presentation was not the first but the third time the plan has been presented to the Holyoke City Council, Garcia said. The deliberate misrepresentations indicate to me that those who oppose Ezekiels Plan are not listening because they dont want to listen.

The mayor said the imperative for Ezekiels Plan comes not from him but the citizens of Holyoke, who want a modern, proactive public safety policy.

Israel Rivera, city councilor and chair of the boards Public Safety Committee, voted against the measure, saying he had more questions on the citys strategy to hire more police officers, while also protecting the community against over-policing.

There is still no plan on how to do that, Rivera said.

Before the vote, Councilor Kevin A. Jourdain, Finance Committee vice chair, cautioned council members about the plans long-term sustainability in light of the citys financial constraints. Dont let the desire for doing the right thing make you do the wrong thing, Jourdain warned.

Its unaffordable, he said.

Some in favor, some against

Tessa Murphy-Romboletti, city councilor and chair of the Development and Governmental Relations Committee, voted in favor of the measure. During the discussion, however, she mentioned lingering questions about the plans expected metrics.

Councilor David K. Bartley, vice chair of the Governmental Relations committee, voted against the safety plan but said he would like to tackle the initiatives, in sequential order and a little at a time over the next year.

Bartley suggested Garcia pick three priorities to debate with the Ordinance Committee piece by piece, before bringing it back to the council.

He also suggested there were problems with some of the funding sources listed in the plan. For example, Bartley said, one of the sources was listed as a county, state and federal partnership.

No county government exists, Bartley said.

Kocayne S. Givner, city councilor and vice chair of the Public Safety Committee, voted in favor of the plan, noting its use of opioid settlement funding and the incorporation of her committees ideas over the past year.

Not endorsed

On Monday, the Holyoke Finance Committee voted unanimously to refer the plan to the full City Council for a vote without a recommendation for Ezekiels Plan.

Joseph M. McGiverin, the chair of the Finance Committee, said during the Tuesdays meeting, when the committee met Monday, two major concerns emerged: adding and sustaining additional police officers and a crime analyst position.

Garcia originally proposed the $1 million comprehensive public safety initiative as a part of a supplemental budget, but then on Nov. 21, the City Council passed the supplemental budget without Ezekiels Plan.

During a Nov. 29, City Council meeting, Garcia said he will further explore and explain funding sources with the Finance Committee.

We will return to the council. We will go over the goals, the strategy, and the funding innovations. We will continue to be clear and above board. I hope the council will set private agendas aside and act in the best interests of the people  all the people  of Holyoke, the mayor said Wednesday.

Ezekiels Plan was created to prevent tragedies like the one after a shooting on Oct. 4 that claimed the life of a newborn baby boy.

The plan, also known as Operation Safe Streets, would have include several city departments, local, state and federal agencies working together in tandem to reduce violent crime and improve quality-of-life in Holyoke.

This story was updated with comments from Mayor Joshua Garcia.
On Feb. 20, 2023, Oakham parents Samantha Kendall and Andrew Goderres worst fears came true  their 5-year-old son, Owen, who is autistic and non-verbal, wandered out of the house and seemingly disappeared.

Owen often liked to wander on his own, so the family had taken precautions, the couple said. They had alarms on the doors, cameras in the yard and locks on all the doors and windows. They had even recently moved to a more rural home so as to be further from the road.

That day, their 7-year-old daughter Addie saw Owen leave the house around 9:15 a.m. and called down to Goderre, who was in the basement, the couple said. Goderre soon went outside to look for Owen, but unlike every other time his son had wandered off, he was nowhere to be found.

Andrew Goderre (left), his wife, Samantha Kendall (right), their son, Owen Goderre (bottom left), and their daughter, Addie Goderre (bottom right).Worcester County District Attorney's Office

Thats when the family started to panic. The couple said they searched their house, garage, yard and drove through the neighborhood, but Owen was in none of these places.

I was absolutely devastated, Kendall said.

Read more: Springfield ups age that retired police can work special duty jobs to 70

So the family decided to call police. Within 15 minutes, an officer had arrived, and called in a search and rescue team, Kendall said.

Over the next two hours, more and more people and resources were tapped in the search for Owen,

Worcester County District Joseph Early Jr. said. K-9 units, helicopters, drones and other technology was utilized, and Massachusetts State Police, a civilian search and rescue team and police and firefighters from several local departments were called in for assistance.

It just kept getting bigger and bigger and bigger, Kendall said. There were easily 50 cruisers parked down our road.

The hardest part for Kendall and Goderre was that they now had to just sit and wait. Addie said she was so worried about her brother she kept breaking into tears.

At one point I just sat in the car and put the seat all the way back. There were so many people around I was like, I just need to disappear, Goderre said.

In all, 60 people worked to locate Owen, Early said. But one of the most influential forces in the search turned out not to be a human, but the family dog.

Tika, a 2-year-old pitbull mix, had learned to follow Owen around after discovering that he often dropped crumbs. But on this day, Goderre said he believes Tika followed Owen out into the woods to keep him safe.

Tika, a 2-year-old pitbull mix, stayed by 5-year-old Owen Goderre's side as he wandered out into the woods on Feb. 20, 2023, sparking a large search and rescue effort.Samantha Kendall

Central Massachusetts Search and Rescue Team members Amanda Cabral and Joanne Tobey said they were part of a team with three state troopers that spotted dog prints next to small shoe-prints in the woods on a power line trail.

They began following the trail, and a man on a four-wheeler soon drove up and said he saw the same prints up the trail, confirming that they were on the right track.

After a little under two hours, the team spotted Owen and Tika, Cabral and Tobey said. The boy and his dog had simply followed the trail and were completely unharmed.

It was just awesome, Cabral said. The search went exactly how a search and rescue is supposed to go.

Amanda Cabral (left), Joanne Tobey (right) and Tobey's dog Roo are part of Central Massachusetts Search and Rescue, and were part of a five-person team that found 5-year-old Owen Goderre on Feb. 20, 2023.Susannah Sudborough/MassLive

And of course, Goderre and Kendall were more than relieved when they found out their son was safe.

I was so weighed down, and then all of a sudden it was just this airless feeling, Kendall said. Everything just kind of melted away, and I was just so overjoyed.

Tobey, who has been a part of over 100 rescues, said the chances of finding someone are about 50/50, in her experience. It helped a lot that Owens parents notified police quickly and that the search was very organized, she said.

Since Owens return, his parents have added more cameras around their home, as well as more locks. Owen also carries a GPS tracker in case those safeguards fail, the couple said.

4 1 / 4 Worcester County District Attorney honors search and rescue team that saved 5-year-old Oakham boy

On Tuesday, Early honored the 60 people who helped find Owen with his offices Team Excellence and Merit Award.

Too often these situations go wrong. Too often, things that are a rescue turn into a recovery. This was different, and thats why were recognizing these people, Early said.
The handling of a police investigation that led to a murder charge against Mansfield woman Karen Read is drawing scrutiny by federal authorities, according to recent news reports by The Boston Globe and Boston 25 News.

A letter obtained by Boston 25 News appears to confirm that Norfolk County District Attorney Michael Morrissey sent a letter to the Department of Justice regarding a federal probe into the arrest and prosecution of Read.
A Dudley woman who was killed in a wrong-way crash on the Maine Turnpike near Portland on Wednesday, Nov. 29, has been identified, the Maine Department of Public Safety announced Tuesday.

Julia Chapdelaine, 22, was one of three people who died that day. Identified with her were Brandon Crawford-Adams, 23, of Old Orchard Beach, Maine, and Alpha Anastacio, 33, of Portland, the department said in a statement.

At around 9:40 p.m., the Augusta Regional Communications Center received multiple reports of a wrong-way vehicle driving fast and heading south on the Turnpikes northbound lane in the area of Mile 48 in Portland, the department said.

The vehicle was a gray 2018 Honda Civic, driven by Crawford-Adams and Chapdelaine in the passenger seat, the department said. Early findings in the investigation suggest the Honda hit a silver 2020 Ford F150 pickup driving northbound. The driver, who was not identified, was also not injured and reported only minor damage to his truck.

After hitting the truck, the Honda crashed head-on into a black 2013 Toyota Rav4 in the left northbound lane, the department said. Anastacio was the driver of the Toyota. Upon impact, the cars ignited on fire and were engulfed in flames.

Anastacio was dead when first responders came to pull her from the crash, the department said. Crawford-Adams and Chapdelaine were also dead when emergency responders found them.

The Turnpike was closed north of Exit 45 for about two hours, the department said. South Portland and Scarborough firefighters, along with the Maine Turnpike Authority, all arrived at the crash site.

The crash continues to be investigated by Maine State Police.
Bahamian police have released the name of the Boston woman who died Monday following a shark attack while paddleboarding.

The woman was identified as Lauren Erickson Van Wart, 44, according to a statement from the Royal Bahamas Police Force obtained by ZNS Bahamas. She was paddleboarding with a male relative three-quarters of a mile off Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort in Cable Beach, New Providence, the Nassau Guardian reported.

CPR was administered to the victim; however, she suffered serious injuries to the right side of her body, including the right hip region and also her right upper limb, police told Reuters.

The accident happened at around 11:15 a.m., NBC 10 Boston reported. The woman died at the beach, the Nassau Guardian added. A jet ski operator who saw the attack said he could see the shark pull her off the board and into the water.

I mean it was crazy, because, like I said, I watched them push out from the beach, he told the Bahamian newspaper. They were laughing and talking. They [were] side by side and laughing and talking.

Mondays attack was the second in almost two weeks when a 47-year-old German tourist disappeared after she was attacked while diving at Tiger Beach on Nov. 21, the Nassau Guardian said.
An Aussie community has rallied around a local council worker after witnessing the man's "kind and thoughtful" act during his routine garbage collection on a residential street.

"Shoutout to this amazing bloke," said a Queensland man on social media this week sharing snaps of the worker during his morning pickup, before announcing what he'd seen take place in front of him.

So often, if residents forget to put their bins out on the curb, they will go unemptied for another week or two, but this particular garbage collector had other plans. "[He] saw the bins were behind a gate [and] not put out, [so he] bought them out for [the resident], emptied the yellow and put it back," the Moreton Bay local said on Facebook. And he's a repeat offender according to many locals who chimed in to say they'd seen it too.

The council worker was praised for emptying bins that hadn't been placed on the kerb. Source: Facebook

"He's awesome he's been down our street and I've witnessed him grabbing forgetful bins off someone's property," said one. Meanwhile, another revealed "he even picks up the bins if he knocks them over once they emptied," labelling the move "legendary".

Council's free bin service for residents

The post in the community's Facebook group garnered a heartwarming response from locals who encouraged the poster to inform the council so "he gets recognition". Others said the man deserves a "Christmas bonus" ahead of the festive season.

Moreton Bay Council confirmed to Yahoo News that it's aware of the garbage collector's thoughtful move. In fact, it's part of a service offered to residents in the council area.

Bin collection assistance is offered to residents with significant mobility issues where no other able-bodied person lives at the address. It must also be safe for the waste collection contractor to do so. Anyone can apply for the free service so long as they meet the criteria and there are currently 270 residents using the service.

Story continues

"Around 20 per cent of people in Moreton Bay live with some form of disability and many parts of our city have a significant proportion of elderly residents, so providing accessible infrastructure for everyone is something very close to my heart," City of Moreton Bay Mayor, Peter Flannery said in a statement to Yahoo.

"City of Moreton Bay continues to be a friendly place for people of all abilities to call home and feel welcome without discrimination."

Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new weekly newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories.
Massachusetts State Police arrested two brothers on poaching charges Saturday in Colrain after recovering a deer and a gray fox that had been shot illegally.

Worthington resident Ira Doull, 46, and Colrain resident Seth Doull, 51, may be responsible for several other poaching incidents that have been reported in the area and could face further charges, state police said in a news release.

The two men are facing charges including hunting from a vehicle, carrying a loaded rifle in a vehicle, hunting deer with a rifle, discharging a firearm near a highway, and hunting a fox out of season. Both were arraigned in Greenfield District Court earlier this week and were released after they posted bail.

On Dec. 2 around 6:10 p.m., state police received a report that a deer had been shot from a truck in front of a home on Shelburne Line Road in Colrain, police said. A trooper responded and noticed a gray Toyota Tacoma nearby that matched the description of the suspect truck.

Read more: Trespassing on Southwick trust land prompts request for hunter permission bylaw

The trooper pulled the truck over and soon noticed that the two men in the truck, who were later identified as the Doull brothers, had several unsecured firearms with them, police said. He and another trooper then arrested the two men.

In the truck, authorities found two rifles, two shotguns, a loaded handgun, other firearms equipment and an illegally killed gray fox that appeared to have been shot and beaten, police said. Authorities later performed a necropsy on the body of the deer and found three slugs that matched a loaded rifle they found in the truck.

Police in and around Colrain have received several reports of a suspect or suspects poaching from a gray Tacoma over the last two years, but no one was ever identified as a suspect, police said. Authorities are now investigating whether the Doull brothers are habitual poachers that may be responsible for the other incidents.

Read more: Massachusetts hunting: Number of registered hunters just shy of 60K

Massachusetts Environmental Police, which also responded Saturday, took possession of the confiscated guns, police said. The Doull brothers face mandatory firearm identification card revocations and could have their hunting rights revoked in nearly every state if they are found guilty of the numerous charges against them.
Much of Massachusetts will see snow Tuesday night, although some areas will see more snowfall than others.

A majority of the state will see light snow with less than an inch of snow.

The best chance of seeing 2+ inches of snow is in Plymouth and Essex Counties, the National Weather Service wrote Tuesday afternoon.

Read more: Massachusetts has one of the best places for snow tubing in the US

The risk of light snowincreases tonight as ocean-effect showers return to eastern MA, particularly SE MA. The best chance of seeing 2+ inches of snow is along the south shore and, to a lesser extent, the north shore of MA. Visit https://t.co/aqcnsXtpuk for the latest. pic.twitter.com/5uHLNnpkcw  NWS Boston (@NWSBoston) December 5, 2023

Snow is mostly expected across Cape Ann and parts of the south shore.

Snow showers may result in slippery travel later tonight into Wednesday morning in the vicinity of the Weymouth to Plymouth corridor as well as Cape Ann, the National Weather Service warned.

The snow might be mixed with rain at first, later changing to fully snow. The snow could last until Wednesday afternoon.

The National Weather Service originally predicted snow to stay in Western and eastern Massachusetts Tuesday morning. However, chances of snow has increased in Western Massachusetts. But its still expected to be less accumulation than other parts of the state.
The suspected shooter spotted in a University of Nevada, Las Vegas, building is dead after police responded to reports of multiple victims at the campus, CNN reported.

Please shelter in place, the university posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. This remains an active investigation. The suspect has been contained, according to police.

Read more: Springfield police investigate deadly shooting on Albemarle Street

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police confirmed the same in their own X post.

Police officers arrived at the school after a confirmed active shooter was in a school building, the university announced in a post on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. Las Vegas police said in a separate post on X that there appeared to be multiple victims and that a suspect had been contained.

This is not a test, the university posted. RUN-HIDE-FIGHT.

The university said the shooter was at the Beam Hall, Frank and Estella Building, home of UNLVs Lee Business School, and that police were responding to an additional report of shots fired at the nearby student union.

The shooting occurred in a city still scarred by one of the worst mass killings in U.S. history, the Oct. 1, 2017, mass shooting at the Mandalay Bay casino in Las Vegas, in which 60 were killed and hundreds more wounded.
While Newton City Council approved a sweeping zoning change Monday meant to increase housing production in its village centers, some councilors say changes to the plan to reduce its scope means the city is still not doing enough to address its housing crisis.

The new zoning ordinance will allow multifamily housing by right in certain areas in Newtons village centers, and will increase the height restrictions for buildings in those areas.

While the citys plan goes above the requirements of a new state law that forced Newton to make the changes which had been discussed for a few years, it is a scaled-back version of the original proposal brought to the City Council, and was seen by many as a necessary compromise.

There is a lot thats good in this. It is beginning to restore what was allowed in this city ... up until 1987 (when Newton passed more restrictive zoning), said Councilor Deborah Crossley, who leads the Zoning and Planning Committee, at Mondays meeting. In our time, where we have this serious housing crisis and we have this existential climate crisis, it has become necessary for us as a community, as a commonwealth, as a nation to understand how our development patterns have strangled us. ... I dont know why it had to take almost three years to do a better plan, a much better plan, in order to get this piece of it, but Im very pleased that were getting the piece of it.

Read more: Opposing groups with same name cause confusion in Newton housing debate

The MBTA Communities Act passed in 2021 requires Newton, as well as 176 other municipalities served by the MBTA, to have at least one zoning area near public transit where multifamily housing is allowed by right. The plan is estimated to allow for 8,745 new housing units to be built, 415 above the 8,330 required by the state, although there is no guarantee that any housing will be developed in these areas.

Newtons new ordinance, known as the Village Center Overlay District (VCOD), will be submitted to the state for approval as its plan for complying with the law before its end-of-year deadline. While state approval is needed for the citys compliance with the MBTA Communities Act, the ordinance will still go into effect regardless of the state decision.

Newton, which has 13 village centers rather than one downtown, designed the VCOD to allow multifamily housing in these centers, despite strongly voiced opposition from some residents. The original proposal would have targeted all 13 village centers, but the final plan passed Monday focuses only on six, Newton Centre, Newton Highlands, Waban, West Newton, Newtonville and Auburndale, encompassing just over 3% of the citys total land area.

Buildings covered by the overlay district will be limited to 3.5 or 4.5 stories, depending on the area. Developments that have at least 50% affordable units will be allowed to add an additional story.

Some councilors expressed concerns that the high percentage would prevent affordable developments from being economically feasible. Councilor Alicia Bowman pointed out that affordable housing advocates had recommended projects with 35% affordability be allowed two additional stories and those with 25% affordability be allowed one extra story.

Nonprofit developers of affordable housing said, This is what would make it possible for us to build to increase the amount of affordability in units, she said. The nonprofit developers can still and will still hopefully propose a project or two or three in the city in the coming years for 100% affordability, but going to 50% is definitely going to take out the for-profit developers.

One major concern from proponents of the VCOD was the inclusion of the village of Auburndale, which some had suggested removing from the plan. An MBTA commuter rail station there is slated for major upgrades in the next few years, and the estimated $170 million project hinges on state funding that could have been taken away if more housing was not allowed there.

The state has made clear that housing is their No. 1 priority, so it was made clear to us that if we dont rezone in and around Auburndale, the Healey administration will lower that area on their prioritization list, said Councilor Joshua Krintzman. Im not willing to give up the transportation infrastructure upgrades along the commuter rail and I dont want to gamble with other peoples use of the commuter rail.

Advocates for the proposal celebrated the decision on Tuesday, saying that it was a step forward for the city.

Given a decades-long history of exclusionary zoning and the sad fact that multi-family housing has been the third rail of Newton politics for decades, this is an advancement worth celebrating, wrote Charles River Chamber CEO Greg Reibman in an email to Chamber members. Newton will be a better, more welcoming and more economically vibrant city because of it.

The Newton For Everyone Coalition, a group formed to support the VCOD proposal, said in a statement that its passage was the most significant zoning update in decades.

Read more: Brookline OKs home rule petition to bring back rent control in town

These environmentally responsible reforms will build village vitality and support our businesses. They are the result of three years of public outreach, analysis, debate, and compromise, the group said. There is still more to be done to bring housing opportunities and economic development to the additional six villages not included in the new zoning.

Still, not everyone was happy with the vote. Councilor Alison Leary, who along with Councilor Brenda Noel were the only dissenting votes due to their disappointment with the amendments curbing the ordinances scope (Councilor Holly Ryan was absent for the vote), said she hoped the council would revisit and expand the VCOD in its next term.

What weve done is essentially eviscerated our work in the last three years, Leary said. Weve undercut so much and given up so much that very little, I think, will get built.
CHICOPEE  Chicopee police are conducting an investigation at Chicopee High School after reports of a gun there Tuesday.

Around 2:15 p.m., the departments school resource officer responded to the fight occurring outside the school.

As the officer intervened in the fight, one student broke away and ran toward Wheatland Avenue. Another student told the officer that the student might have a gun, according to police spokesperson Travis Odiorne.

The officer gave chase, called in more police and eventually found the student. Odiorne added that there is no threat to the public.

As a precaution, all after-school activities at Chicopee High and Dupont Middle School were suspended while the Police Department conducted its investigation, Superintendent Marcus Ware said in a statement.

Police are looking for video of the fight and related foot chase. Send tips to the Chicopee police detective bureau at db@chicopeepolice.com.
SPRINGFIELD  When Dr. Norbert Goldfield sees patients at Baystate Brightwood Health Center, hes doing what he can to help children and families who need free or low-cost care.

But his concern for people living on the margins doesnt end in Springfield. It is transcending borders and helping the marginalized communities of Israel and Palestine, he told The Republican and MassLive.

Goldfield founded Healing Across the Divides in 2004, a nonprofit based in Northampton. As with his service in greater Springfield, the nonprofit works at the grassroots level in the downtrodden communities and poorest neighborhoods of Israel and the West Bank.

There are many divides, said Goldfield. Its not just Israelis and Palestinians, rich and poor. Its not just male, female or religious.

Healing Across the Divides works with community organizations focused on the health of Palestinians and Israelis. The nonprofit helps fund those groups, which are run by Israelis and Palestinians. The programs teams on the ground help local leaders manage their organizations.

Goldfield said his groups mission is shaped by a fundamental belief in better health as a catalyst for peace.

We want to help these groups have a greater impact on the communities they serve to the extent they work together across the many divides. Some of these leaders could be tomorrows political leaders, and they will be the ones that will make peace in this challenged part of the world, said Goldfield.

Healing Across the Divides has a broad mandate, supporting mental and physical health, pre-natal care, youth sports, providing safe spaces in the face of violence, reproductive rights and a farm run jointly by Israelis and Palestinians.

The outcome they were looking at on the farm was improved communication and nutrition, he said. Overall, we have measurably improved the health of more than a quarter million people in the last 20 years.

Norbert Goldfield visits with participants in a Healing Across the Divides program in the north of Israel.Photo provided by Norbert Goldfield

But while Goldfield looks back on the groups successes, he peers ahead at a future fraught with violence. Now is frankly the worst of times. Its certainly the most challenging time since the founding of the state of Israel. No question about it, he said.

The nonprofit survives on donations from individuals and a limited number of grants from foundations. It is wrapping up an emergency fundraising drive now because the need is severe and unprecedented.

The campaign was successful, sadly in the sense its the kind of work that needs support all along. But the reality is, when theres a crisis, people are more willing to donate, said Goldfield.

Ongoing work

Healing Across the Divides is continuing to fund health-related programs, but there is now a critical new need to fund services that go beyond what the organization traditionally supported.

We are now funding emergency mental health services for staff because they are really stressed out, as are the grantees who run the community groups, said Goldfield.

The program is able to directly fund work in the West Bank and Israel. But supporting the people of Gaza is nearly impossible.

A U.S. law bans funding any groups in Gaza. There are all sorts of forms that have to be filled out indicating youre not a terrorist. Theres a paper flow that doesnt allow you to work within Gaza unless its a very unusual situation, said Goldfield.

Healing Across the Divides has funded more than 50 community-based projects, but only one benefitted Gazans. Work was done to help people with diabetes. That program has ended and future assistance to anyone there is unlikely.

Im not the kind of person that gets frustrated, otherwise, I would burn out, whether its work I do in the Middle East or my clinical work in the United States. I try to deal with reality. I try to engage in a way that bridges divides, he said.

Personal mission

Goldfield, who is Jewish, has been traveling to the Middle East for decades. He worked in a Jerusalem hospital in 1996 and treated patients living in the West Bank. He was also a featured speaker on a tour sponsored by Physicians for Human Rights.

Two decades ago, Goldfield wanted to find and join an organization working toward health and peace in the region. He wanted to build bridges a world away.

He never thought he would start his own group, but did when he found no one doing the kind of work he envisioned.

I feel compelled to be involved. I ask myself, What is it that I can do that will make a concrete difference?

Goldfield will continue practicing medicine and see patients in Springfield, while fighting to build peace through health care in Israel.

There are 10 or 15 people in the world at the top that can make a difference. Since Im not one of them, Ive worked from the bottom up, said Goldfield. What that means for me is helping groups working to improve healthcare for marginalized people.
SPRINGFIELD  The School Committee awarded long-term Superintendent Daniel Warwick a 2% performance raise after completing an evaluation that left some members rating him as exceeding expectations, while others answered the same questions saying he did not meet expectations at all.

The 2% raise, which was adopted in a 5-2 vote on Tuesday, was granted on top of a 2% contractual raise given at the start of the fiscal year in July. The increases will raise Warwicks salary from $306,698 to $319,089.

Before the vote, School Committee members discussed the written evaluations completed before the meeting. While Mayor Domenic J. Sarno argued the overall report gave him exemplary marks, others disagreed, saying in most cases no more than three of the seven committee members graded him as exceeding expectations in each evaluation and in five of the questions, two members gave him the lowest score of not meeting expectations.

At a time when superintendents in many districts are leaving after working only for a few years, Springfield is fortunate to have the stability Warwick offers, since he has led the district since 2012 and has worked in the schools for at least 45 years, Sarno said.

He argued that Warwick steered the district out of the COVID-19 pandemic and remote learning well, and saw improved MCAS scores this year.

But committee member Denise Hurst questioned Sarnos math, saying she does not believe his overall scores should be ranked highly on his impact on student learning.

Warwick was graded on four standards, each of which had two to five subcategories. In categories of instructional leadership and family and community engagement, three members ranked him as exemplary, three ranked him as proficient, and one said he needs improvement. In management operations and professional culture, three ranked him as exemplary, yet three others said he needs improvement; one said he was proficient.

It is not an indictment on the superintendent that we didnt give him exemplary and high, it just means we have work to do. Nor does it mean we are not acknowledging the progress, but we also have to acknowledge the challenges, Hurst said.

School Committee members lauded Warwick for starting universal free preschool last year, but others said they were concerned that an increase in hiring to create a more diverse staff has not gone that well, because of departures.

There were also debates over students overall performance on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System exam.

Committee member Christopher Collins questioned why some members marked Warwick as not making progress on narrowing the achievement gap between the district and the state on the MCAS, when data shows it has. Districtwide, students improved from 20% to 22% meeting or exceeding standards in English and from 15% to 16% meeting or exceeding standards on math in 2023.

The state even identified the city as making significant growth, more than any other system, he said.

Hurst questioned why the city does not compare its own student growth with that of previous years, instead of just comparing scores with the state. Collins argued the data does and shows students are showing improvements in nearly every category.

Written comments on the evaluation brought a variety of concerns and plaudits.

Full-day Pre-K is a game-changer for our kids. The school construction project(s) are fabulous. Our new internship program is second to none, one member said.

Several others comments showed concerns about diversity hiring and equity.

We continue not to be bold, but rather cautious, on how we truly dismantle oppression and racism, one member wrote.
One key goal, when the legal cannabis era arrived in Massachusetts, was to encourage participation by people who paid a high price during the years marijuana was seen as the evil weed.

The Social Equity Program run by the Cannabis Control Commission has helped scores of people enter the industry by offering free advice and training, expedited license reviews and waived fees.

Alissa Nowak is one of those people. Her story, told the other day on MassLive, puts a face on the consequences of marijuanas long prohibition. Her experience reveals how arrests for even relatively minor transgressions, during the long war on drugs, made it hard for people to resume normal lives.

Nowak was arrested on marijuana distribution charges in Springfield about five years ago. She was charged after she sold weed to an undercover cop attending a secretive market. At the time, Nowak worked at a Dunkin Donuts while studying for a master of business administration degree. It was the best job she could land; she was on probation after being charged with felony possession of a prescription drug in college.

The marijuana distribution case in Springfield was continued without a finding. It qualified Nowak to take part in the states equity program. Today, she holds a license to deliver cannabis through her Norton company, Lucky Green Ladies. The Social Equity Program changed everything for me, she told reporter Will Katcher of MassLive.

To be sure, this sort of restorative justice applies only to victimless crimes. Illicit drugs that kill people remain an essential target of law enforcement, as we saw with last weeks arrest of two Longmeadow men. The Drug Enforcement Agency says a raid at the mens address found 225 grams of pressed fentanyl bricks, a synthetic opioid linked to fatal overdoses.

It took a referendum question in 2016 to get the ball rolling on adult use cannabis in Massachusetts. The Legislature stepped in to shape rules.

The one that helped Nowak was driven by conscience.

As new cannabis firms prepared to get rich, was it fair that people still suffered consequences for jumping the gun on legalization? White entrepreneurs, for the most part, were cashing in on a business that in prior decades had sent disproportionate numbers of Black people to jail.

Nowaks early success in business makes a clear case. Equity needed to be on the table.
The $3.1 billion year-end budget bill that Gov. Maura Healey signed Monday will  among other things provide immediate financial relief to the commonwealths shelter system, and give pay increases to tens of thousands of unionized state employees.

Here are three things to know.

How will the new budget bill help unhoused families?

The 2023 year-end spending bill will immediately infuse $250 million into the states emergency assistance program to help it run through the rest of the fiscal year. The bill would also require Healey to spend up to $50 million of the funds on an overflow site to house homeless families by Dec. 31.

The influx of migrants entering the Bay State seeking a place to live has dried up the amount of space in the states shelter system. The crisis prompted Healey to restrict the number of people who could stay in the states shelter to 7,500 families, pushing those in need to a waitlist.

State officials designated a few conference rooms in the states transportation building in Boston to serve as an overnight shelter space until an overflow site has been launched.

Lt. Gen. Scott Rice, who leads the states response to the ongoing shelter crisis, has said that he and his team are locating an overflow site to house the hundreds of people stuck on the state waitlist.

What else would the budget bill do?

The bill provides nearly $400 million to fund pay increases in union contracts for tens of thousands of state employees, some of whom are police officers, teachers and/or transit workers.

The bill also shells out $75 million for school districts impacted by special education tuition rate increases; $15 million in disaster relief aid for towns and cities harmed by storms and natural disasters in 2023, and $100 million in pension payments to remove any liability from the 2015 early retirement incentive program, according to the Massachusetts Senates office.

What are people saying about the bill?

The bill has been widely praised by advocates and lawmakers.

Max Page, president of the Massachusetts Teachers Association, praised the activism from members of his group to get the bill signed.

Thousands of MTA members worked alongside colleagues from other unions making phone calls, sending emails, signing petitions, and showing up to events, both on their campuses and at the State House, Page said. The solidarity of public-sector workers was beautiful to behold. Legislators felt the heat for their inexcusable inaction.

Andrea Park, Director of Community Driven Advocacy at the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute, said that she was relieved and grateful that the bill was signed, MassLive reported. Park has been in contact with members of the Healey administration to understand their progress in locating an overflow site.

Senate President Karen Spilka, D-Middlesex/Norfolk, also praised members of her chamber in getting the bill signed.

The Senate understands how much of an impact our work has on the residents of the Commonwealthespecially when pay raises for hard-working employees and funding for emergency shelter is on the line, Spilka said in a statement. Im proud of the urgency the Senate has repeatedly shown in getting this bill to the governors desk, and Id like to thank all of my colleagues in the Senate for getting this done, especially Senate Ways and Means Chair Rodrigues and Senate Minority Leader [Bruce] Tarr.
Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has joined with the chief executives of five other states to call on the federal government to ensure that Americans have access to contraception without facing additional costs.

On Monday, the Bay States Democratic governor joined with other members of the executive committee of the multi-state Reproductive Freedom Alliance, to call on U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra and Acting U.S. Labor Secretary Julie Su to take additional steps to ensure that all forms of contraception are affordable and accessible.

Together, the governors urged federal regulators in a Monday letter to clarify that non-prescription contraception would be covered, without cost-sharing, in those private insurance plans under the aegis of the Affordable Care Act, Medicare, and Medicaid.

Ive long advocated for contraception to be available without a prescription to lower barriers to accessing this critical medication, Healey said in a statement. Now that it will finally be available over-the-counter, it is essential that it is covered by health insurance so that patients can afford it. Im proud to stand with my fellow governors to ensure that reproductive health care is affordable and accessible for all of our communities.

Healey was joined in the letter to Becerra and Su by Govs. Gavin Newsom, of California; JB Pritzker, of Illinois; Michelle Lujan Grisham, of New Mexico; Roy Cooper, of North Carolina, and Josh Shapiro, of Pennsylvania.

In that letter, Healey and the other state governors asserted that we see firsthand the need for affordable and accessible reproductive health coverage in our communities, and that federal approval earlier this year of the first, over-the-counter daily birth control could revolutionize access to contraception in the United States.

Ahead of that, the governors urged federal regulators to promptly disseminate new guidance on coverage of [over-the-counter] contraception, and join us in expanding access to reproductive healthcare for the most vulnerable populations in our country.

Democratic governors in 20 states launched the multi-state alliance earlier this year, describing it as a way for they and their staffs to share best practices and to affirm abortion rights for the roughly 170 million Americans under the alliances umbrella. It also could ensure services for the remainder of U.S. residents who live in states with more restrictive laws, the Associated Press reported in February.

We can all coalesce, New Mexicos Lujan Grisham said told the AP at the time. She added that the U.S. Supreme Courts Dobbs decision that ended a national right to abortion horrified and put pressure on governors to act.

This is leveraging our strengths ... to have more of a national voice, Lujan Grisham said, according to the AP.
A reclusive online conspiracy theorist who was mentioned in a chilling video recorded by the killers of two Australian police officers in a brutal ambush at a Queensland property has been arrested by the FBI in the United States.

Going by the name Donald Day, the 58-year-old man spent much of his time on YouTube, posting videos about an extreme Christian ideology known as "premillennialism". Tragically, the end-of-day religious messaging found a dedicated audience with Gareth and Stacey Train who used it as inspiration for their murderous plot in December last year.

In the wake of their horrible killing of Constables Matthew Arnold and Constable Rachel McCrow, as well as a good Samaritan neighbour, the couple filmed a YouTube video in which they sent a message to their apparent inspiration.

"They came to kill us, and we killed them ... we'll see you at home Don," Gareth said. "Love you," Stacey added. In the clip, they referred to police as "devils and demons".

The end-of-days YouTuber is listed as Donald Day in reports of the indictment. Source: 7News

The US national sent his followers in Queensland the disturbing content for almost two years, police say.

While his YouTube account has since been deleted, in the comments section of one video Day referred to the couple as his "brother" and "sister", Guardian Australia reported.

On another account, he declared to his followers the fight was "inevitable". "So we have hoisted the Black Flag  no surrender, no mercy  that we might all fight and die well."

Almost exactly a year after the terrorist attack at the rural property of Wieambilla, west of Brisbane, the man identified as Donald Day has been arrested at a remote property in the state of Arizona. One of the two indictments issued against him relates to the incitement of violence online in connection to the Queensland attack.

Constables Matthew Arnold and Constable Rachel McCrow were gunned down at the property. Source: AAP

US instigator appeared in court

Queensland Police on Wednesday said the 58-year-old had appeared in court and was in custody in the US after a joint investigation led to his arrest

Story continues

The man's motivations are still being investigated but it is alleged Gareth Train began following the 58-year-old's YouTube account from May 2020. The men began commenting on each other's videos a year later, Queensland Police Assistant Commissioner Cheryl Scanlon said.

"Between May 2021 and December 2022, the man repeatedly sent messages containing Christian end-of-days ideology to Gareth, and then later to Stacey," she told reporters.

The Trains also accessed the man's older YouTube account which was created in 2014, police said.

"We know that the offenders executed a religiously motivated terrorist attack in Queensland," Assistant Commissioner Scanlon said. "They were motivated by a Christian extremist ideology."

Commissioner Cheryl Scanlon addressing media on Wednesday. Source: AAP

Premillennialists hold an apocalyptic belief that the world will go through a period of calamities before the second coming of Jesus Christ.

There are currently no extradition orders for the 58-year-old man who was charged under US law but Assistant Commissioner Scanlon said it was "early days".

The Wieambilla shootings were described as the nation's first domestic terror attack. After luring police to the property, dressed in camouflage fatigues, the heavily armed Trains rigged motion sensors along the entrance to the property to warn them of police arriving before carrying out their attack.

with AAP

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SOUTHWICK  Voters approved a zoning bylaw establishing the regulatory framework needed to open a cannabis retailer in town, narrowly shot down a request by the owner of Crepes Tea House to rezone a portion of his property, and overwhelming approved installing six pickleball courts in town during the Special Town Meeting Tuesday night.

When the roughly 225 residents convened for the Special Town Meeting at the auditorium at Southwick Regional School Tuesday, they had seven articles on the warrant to decide on.
WESTFIELD  Superintendent Stefan Czaporowski and Business Administrator Shannon Barry presented an accounting to the School Committee on Dec. 4 of what grants are currently funding which programs, and the areas of concern are with the ending of federal ESSER funds in September 2024.

We tried to limit staff on the grant, but at some point we had to meet the needs of the kids. I think we had a nice mix, Czaporowski said during the meeting, pointing to some of the long-standing capital improvement needs that had been addressed in the schools with Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief, a series of pandemic-era spending programs passed by Congress in 2020 and 2021.

Christine Shea, director of assessment and accountability, and Susan Dargie, director of curriculum, said on Tuesday that the purpose of the presentation was two-fold, to talk about everything the district has accomplished with the ESSER funds, and what areas will be vulnerable to cuts when the funding ends.
he Brazilian delegation to COP28 held a press briefing on Day 6 of the conference to provide an update on progress in the negotiations. At the same time, the speakers took the opportunity to emphasize Brazils overarching priority at COP28, which is to ensure that the average global temperature does not exceed 1.5oC.

The speakers included the head of delegation and Minister for the Indigenous Peoples, Sonia Guajajara; the Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Joao Paulo Capobianco; the Secretary for Climate, Energy and Environment of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Andre Correa do Lago; and the National Secretary for Climate Change at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Ana Toni.

Minister Guajajara said that she was proud to head Brazils delegation during COP28 thematic day of the indigenous peoples. COP28 is being attended by more indigenous people than ever before. She said that indigenous peoples are a part of the solution of the climate crisis, adding that we are 5% of the worlds population but are stewards of 82% of the biodiversity of the planet.

Joao Paulo Capobianco referred to Brazils success in reducing deforestation by 49% between January and October 2023, avoiding 250m tonnes of emissions  a major achievement that was labelled by the Prime-Minister of Norway as the most important climate news of the year  and recalled that Brazil had presented the initiative Tropical Forests Forever Facility.

The chief negotiator of the Delegation, Ambassador Andre Correa do Lago, stressed the sense of urgency that needs to inspire the fight against climate change, which is why Brazil proposed Mission 1.5. At the time of the Paris Agreement, science had not yet fully explained the consequences of a 1.5oC warming  but now that they are clear, it is clear that we should forge a sense of purpose to cap warming at that level.

The most consequential outcome of COP28 will be the Global Stocktake, which must be based on science and on equity, Correa do Lago explained. It will inform countries as they discuss climate finance in COP29 and develop the second round of NDCs, to be submitted by 2025, at COP30. The path from Dubai to Belem will be decisive for humanitys success in fighting climate change, he added.

The questions from the media covered a variety of issues, including fossil fuels. The delegation explained that Brazil benefits from a variety of transition options, including biofuels and green hydrogen. Recalling the statement delivered by the BASIC group (Brazil, South Africa, India and China) at the opening session, the delegation stressed that developed countries should take the lead in phasing-out fossil fuel production and consumption, in an accelerated manner.

Regarding the relationship between trade and environment, the speakers explained that trends towards unilateralism, protectionism and fragmentation of international cooperation jeopardize trust and, consequently, ambitious climate action. Both the Rio 1992 Declaration and UNFCCC state that trade policy measures for environmental purposes should not constitute a means of arbitrary or unjustifiable discrimination or a disguised restriction on international trade, which is why Brazil is raising these issues both here at COP28 and at the World Trade Organization.
FORMER Garda Cllr Christy Hyland has called for a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison for people who assault gardai and other essential workers.

Cllr Hyland was commenting on recently passed laws which increased the maximum sentence for an assault on gardai and emergency workers to a twelve-year custodial sentence.

The former garda said that the government were wasting their time implementing maximum sentences due to the number of offenders who avoid jail.

As of October 27, 339 gardai had been assaulted in the line of duty in 2023.

This was before the Dublin riots, when approximately 60 officers were injured after violence broke out hours after a stabbing incident in the city centre.

My view, and the view of a lot of people I represent, maximum sentence means youll end up inside the court and the guy is in for a serious assault, the frontline staff is at home, seriously injured for twelve months, and inside in the court they play they old game again: He was suffering from drink and drugs, Cllr Hyland said at the recent meeting of the Mayo Joint Policing Committee (JPC).

Maximum sentence? They are wasting their time. Bring in a minimum sentence and let the government do it if they are into law and order.

Addressing the issue of assault on gardai, Superintendent Gabriel Moran said that the number of assaults on gardai in Mayo were fairly low and down compared to last year.
The Claremorris to Athenry rail line is set to be included in the Trans-European Transport Network (Ten-T) as part of Ireland's comprehensive network.

Mayo Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon welcomed the proposed inclusion of the Claremorris to Athenry rail line in Ireland's section of the Trans-European Transport (Ten-T) comprehensive network. He stated: The decision by Cabinet to approve the addition of the Claremorris to Athenry route is a significant step in reinstating the Western Rail Corridor (WRC) for rail freight and commuter services.

The Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) regulation of the EU defines an infrastructure network that encompasses roads, railways, ports, and airports. Projects intended for inclusion in this comprehensive network are required to be completed by 2050. Revised Ten-T network maps are set to be agreed soon with negotiations between the EU institutions in their final stages.

I've expressed my concerns about the delays in releasing the All-Island Strategic Rail Review due to difficulties in re-establishing institutions in Northern Ireland, Deputy Dillon continued. I'm pleased to report that yesterday, Ministers reached an agreement to incorporate the proposed Claremorris to Athenry and Waterford to Rosslare routes into Ireland's comprehensive network.

The Government and Minister Ryan's ambition to re-establish rail links from Waterford to Rosslare and Claremorris in Mayo to Athenry in Galway, creating a rail line from Ballina to Wexford, holds great potential. While inclusion in the European network offers opportunities for EU funding, it doesn't guarantee automatic entitlement.

The negotiations within the Ten-T network are in their final stages, and the revised network maps for the EU are expected to be agreed upon soon, Deputy Dillon concluded.
As Cancer Care West launch their 2022 annual report, the charity is once again drawing attention to the huge demand for their services. The charity provides practical and emotional support services to anyone whose life has been affected by a cancer diagnosis. In 2022 the charity provided support to over 2,700 people from their centres in Galway and , and provided nearly 7,500 bed-nights at Inis Aoibhinn, their residential facility at Galway University Hospital for patients undergoing radiotherapy. Also nearly 100 people availed of the free transport service provided by the charity. Overall, demand for all the services provided by the charity increased in 2022, a predicted outcome following the pandemic and indicative of the growing need for cancer services in general.

Richard Flaherty, CEO of the charity, noted: The surge in demand for our services post-pandemic, meant that 2022 was a challenging year for us. Looking forward, we expect demand for our services will continue to increase, while the ongoing difficult economic conditions along with the increased cost of providing such specialised services means funding our work into the future will be a constant concern.

Meantime the charity continues to innovate and grow their services. One of their key highlights during the year was the rollout of the Children United in Bereavement Support (CUBS) programme, an 8-week intervention for children aged 7 to 12 whose parent has died from cancer. Another key highlight was the launch of an cancer-rehabilitation service, offered by their specially trained Exercise Physiologist at their purpose built gym in their support centre on Seamus Quirke road. The charity also introduced an Expressive Writing programme, giving participants the opportunity to process their cancer diagnosis through the medium of the written word.

In October 2022, the All-Ireland Business Foundation (AIBF) recognised the vital work carried out by Cancer Care West when they named them the Connacht Charity of the year. This major national honour was awarded in recognition of the exceptional services that the charity has provided to cancer patients and their families on the West Coast of Ireland for over 25 years.

All of Cancer Care Wests services are provided free of charge. If you would like to know more about Cancer Care Wests services please drop in to their Support Centre or call them on 091 540040. If you would like to donate to Cancer Care West please go to www.cancercarewest.ie/donate. For all other queries please call 091 545000.
AN ambulance made a round trip of over 400 kilometres from Mayo University Hospital in Castlebar to north Donegal to bring a patient on a 20-kilometre journey.

A public meeting in Donegal heard from a former employee at Letterkenny University Hospital, who said that the crew were dispatched from Mayo shortly after a crew at Letterkenny had finished their shift.

The crew travelled over 200 kilometres from Castlebar to Letterkenny University Hospital, before transferring the patient 20 kilometres away to Stranorlar Community Hospital.

In a report on Donegal Live, the former hospital employee explained: The discharge and so on would have taken the crew half an hour beyond the scheduled end of their shift. So, they rang headquarters, and they were told to finish their shift and just go on.

In July this year, it was revealed that it had taken ambulances more than two hours to arrive at life-threatening emergencies on more than 100 occasions, including one call in Mayo which took three hours, eight minutes and 29 seconds to arrive.

Due to hospital overcrowding, ambulances in Mayo have also consistently failed to meet HSE turnaround targets, with less than 10 percent of turnarounds in MUH meeting that target.

On learning about the Donegal call-out, Cllr Michael Kilcoyne, a member of the HSE Forum West, branded it a waste.

Its clearly a waste of public money  and its an abuse of the services, whoever made the decision to do that, Cllr Kilcoyne told The Mayo News yesterday (Monday).

Clearly whoever made the decision to do that should at least be sent for training on how the system is supposed to operate, because clearly, they doesnt know.

It deprived Mayo of an ambulance when there could well have been an emergency overnight. Remember also in Mayo, there an airport theres a lot of aircraft pass over Mayo and if theres an emergency their nearest airport for landing is Knock.

Cllr Kilcoyne also expressed concern about Garda squad cars being deployed according to a similar model, whereby the nearest available car is sent to respond to an incident.

This has resulted in cars travelling long distances to destinations sometimes far outside their area to attend calls.



'Best practice'

In a response issued to The Mayo News, a HSE spokesperson said that the National Ambulance Service was being run in line with international best practice.

The ambulance service operates on a national basis and mobilises responses to calls for assistance based on patient needs, ambulances may travel to and be dispatched from various locations irrespective of their base as they are not confined to work in geographical areas. This means that an ambulance based in Letterkenny may be dispatched to a call in Mayo if it is the nearest available ambulance to the incident.

Similarly, a Mayo based ambulance may be dispatched to a call in Donegal if it is returning from Letterkenny University Hospital and is the nearest ambulance available. The current deployment model is designed around international best practice and has eliminated previous practices where the nearest ambulance was not always dispatched due to former legacy boundaries.
A MAN in his 20s has been arrested as part of the investigation of recent knife-point robbery incidents that occurred in south east Dublin on November 21, 2023.

The first incident unfolded at approximately 11:15pm on Tuesday, November 21, when an unidentified lone male entered a service station located on Clonkeen Road.

The assailant threatened the station's staff with a knife but left the premises without taking anything. Shortly after, another individual targeted a pharmacy on Foxrock Avenue, and threatened staff with a knife before making off with a sum of cash.

No physical injuries were reported in either incident.

In response to these criminal activities, investigations were launched by Detectives from Cabinteely. The efforts culminated in a planned operation carried out on Tuesday, December 5, in the Dublin area. During this operation, a man in his 20s was successfully apprehended by the law enforcement authorities.

The arrested individual is currently in custody under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984, at a Garda station within the Dublin Region.

As the investigation continues, the community is encouraged to come forward with any relevant details that may aid in the resolution of the case.
A young Moville woman who has been battling health issues for almost ten years has spoken of her frustrations with the health service.

Natasha Crumlish, a mother-of-two, has told of her struggles to receive proper care since discovering a lump underneath her tongue in 2014.

At a public meeting in Letterkenny on Thursday night, Ms Crumlish spoke passionately about the lack of adequate oral maxillo care in the county. Oral Maxillo is the diagnosis and surgical care of the mouth, jaws, skull, face head and neck.

I have tried to highlight how broken the health system is and I am suffering, Ms Crumlish said.

All I want for Christmas is a hospital bed. I just want my young life back again.

I try to take the painkillers to get through as a mum, but I feel that theyre wrecking me as a person. Due to how unwell I am, I feel incapable of being the mother I should be an incapable of being the partner I should be.

Having initially presented to Letterkenny University Hospital in 2014, Ms Crumlish contacted medics in 2016 to see where she stood on the waiting list. She told the meeting that she found out that there was only one oral maxillo consultant between Galway, Sligo and Donegal.

I received many letters asking me if I still needed an appointment, which I did, she said.

In 2018, Ms Crumlish received a call to see if she wanted to take up a private appointment at the Hollywood Clinic in Belfast.

Without haste, I took it, she recalled. I was referred back to Letterkenny to have the lump surgically removed.

Having subsequently developed flu-like symptoms and suffering from pain and pressure in my ear, neck and throat, Ms Crumlish contacted doctors again in 2019.

She said: To my despair, I was told that I was removed from the list. The manners that my mum and dad taught me went out the window. The lady on the other end of the phone hung up on me. I was absolutely devastated.

Ms Crumlish reached out to her own GP and opted to go to St James Hospital in Dublin for assessment.

Doctors in St James advised that they were unable to touch the lump as there were too many nerve endings. A biopsy was ruled out for the same reason and in May 2021 she underwent a procedure in Ballykelly.

The deep pressure in her ear, mouth, neck and throat persisted and the oral maxillo department told her it was now an ENT (ear, nose and throat) issue. The ENT waiting list is backlogged by as much as seven years.

I hounded them, she said. I landed with no appointment week after week and they had to give in.

An appointment with a consultant brought the news that she had cancer. However, a scan two days later came back clear. She was left with no choice but to return to Ballykelly, where she had another operation to remove a lump from her throat,

The lump came back as reactive tonsil tissue, she said.

When pain returned to her ear six months later, Ms Crumlish I didnt want to acknowledge it.

The pain got so bad, she said. The lymphoid was removed and has now been replaced with a cluster of solid lymphoids. The pain radiates deep in my ear and now also at the back of my head.

In May of this year, Ms Crumlish spent 17 hours on a hard chair at Letterkenny University Hospital.

She recalled: I had no choice but to go to my car. There was snow and I was laying in the car in the freezing cold.

Ms Crumlish told Thursdays meeting that she borrowed money from her parents to assist with the costs of the procedures and said: I was very lucky that my mum and dad were there for me and I just thunk of the poor person who has no option to go to.
A frustrated dog owner has been slapped with a $288 fine after her "sweet little lap dog" broke a little-known rule in the front yard of her residence.

The Maltese Shih Tzu did not attack anyone, or defecate in a public space  both finable offences across Australia. The dog was simply spotted in the driveway of the property before being dobbed in by a neighbour who snapped a photo of the off-leash pup.

According to Melbourne's Bayside City Council, which issued the fine, it's an offence for pets to not be "securely confined to the owner's premises" and that means roaming around the front garden and the drive is off limits. But Sandringham woman Judy Murphy claims she'd never heard of the rule before and she's "not very happy" about it.

"The council doesnt have it on their website  I would have expected full disclosure from them as it is a little-known fine," the 79-year-old said, according to Herald Sun. "Perhaps the council could print all laws regarding animal safety on every yearly animal registration (notices)," she added.

Melbourne woman Judy Murphy has copped a $288 fine for letting her dog roam in her driveway off-leash. Source: Herald Sun

Council responds to resident's claim

Murphy said her "sweet" dog "wouldn't hurt a fly" and wondered why her neighbour would take issue with the pup. But a spokesperson for the council confirmed the Sandringham resident has been "spoken to multiple times" before following "multiple complaints" to the council about a dog not being confined to the premises.

"[The resident] was aware her dog needed to be secured to the property, to prevent injury, nuisance or attacks from occurring," Bayside Councils City Planning and Amenity director Matthew Cripps told Yahoo News Australia. "Dog owners need to ensure their dog is secured to their property. Allowing a dog to roam in an unfenced front yard or unsecured open area is an offence against the Domestic Animals Act."

Story continues

What does the law say?

While other pet owners said the rule was "crazy", the rule applies across the state. Cripps confirmed the penalty is a fixed amount governed by the Domestic Animals Act, which cannot be altered. The Victorian state law stipulates pet owners are "required to securely confine your dog to the property". This means all yards must have a closed gate and an escape-proof fence that your dog cannot jump, get under or through and visitors must also have safe access to your front door without being stopped by your dog.

In NSW, dog owners must take all reasonable precautions to prevent the dog from escaping from the property on which it is being kept. Under the Companions Animals Act 1998, dogs must be kept on a leash in all public spaces, including on the footpath, your dog must be on a leash  except in designated off-leash parks.

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About the plot. THE SUMMER IN GOSSENSASS begins as two American actresses living in 1890s London, Elizabeth Robins and Marion Lea, sit surrounded by books, discussing a promising new playwright theyve just heard about - Henrik Ibsen. His new play, HEDDA GABLER, is causing quite the stir in Munich and its main character sounds like no other theyve seen. Their enthusiasm for the possibility of playing such a complicated and dare they say unwomanly woman evolves from fascination to obsession as they decide to mount the first English language version of the play. Elizabeth, Marion, and their friends face numerous roadblocks in their pursuit as they investigate this outrageous women, Hedda Gabler, asking who she really is and what inspired Ibsens greatest tragedy. The play culminates in an expressionist, phantasmagoria dream ballet version of Hedda, as the actresses ideal version of the play is finally achieved.

About Hedda Gabler. HEDDA GABLER is a play by Henrik Ibsen, a Norwegian playwright, who historians have called the Father of Modern Drama. His plays include A Dolls House, Ghosts, The Wild Duck, Enemy of the People, Peer Gynt, and The Master Builder, and are considered by historians to be the first plays establishing the realist style, and the best examples of the well-made play plot structure. First produced in 1891, Hedda is still one of his most talked about, criticized, and influential works of theatre. The title character is a mind-bender. Her behavior is bizarre, contradictory, and yet compelling. Her complicated actions have inspired hundreds of acting interpretations, morphing over the century since it was first performed from demon witch to victim of social oppression. It has been translated dozens of times, adapted both for stage and film, and is still a hugely coveted role for professional actresses with its most recent production opening at the National Theatre in London this December directed by Ivo van Hove.

Hedda Gabler plot. Out of desperation, the daughter of General Gabler marries an academic. Strong-willed and highly intelligent, Hedda feels trapped in her new life. Determined to find satisfaction, she begins manipulating everyone around her, but each move she makes takes her further away from real joy. When she goes too far, she sparks a downward spiral that unravels her world.

About the Playwright. Maria Irene Fornes (1930-2018) was born in Havana, Cuba and immigrated to the United States in 1951. Her first produced play, Tango Palace, was written in 1963 and her last, Letters from Cuba, was finished nearly four decades later, in 2000. She has written over 40 plays, won an unprecedented nine Obie Awards, and her play, What Of The Night? (1990) was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Drama. For decades Fornes was sidelined by critics as avant-garde because she didnt follow traditional playwriting rules, but now, theatre artists are working to change the narrative. Fornes didnt like labels, but she and her plays have been described by many as groundbreaking, diverse, centering women characters, experimental, difficult, lesbian, feminist, award-winning, life-changing. She was the mother of Latinx playwriting, a leading LGBTQIA+ forerunner, a genius. This play will be produced as part of a year-long, campus-wide series of events honoring her in conjunction with the Fornes Institutes Celebrando Fornes/Celebrating Fornes 2019-2020, a national initiative that seeks to raise awareness of Forness impact on theatre and uplift her legacy. Here's a link to the Fornes Institute for more information: https://www.Fornesinstitute.com/.

Key facts about Fornes important for this play. Maria Irene Fornes was not educated in a formal way. Her father didn't believe in educating girls, so she stopped attending school in the 6th grade and never finished high school. At 15 years old, she settled in New York City with her mother and sister and, after a while, got a job in a dance shoe factory where she worked for a short time before leaving to study painting with renowned expressionist painter, Hans Hofmann. In the mid-1950s, she moved to Paris where she studied textile design and was first exposed to theatre with a French-language production of Waiting for Godot, which had a profound effect on her. She later said, Imagine a writer whose theatricality is so amazing and so important that you could see a play of his, not understand a word, and be shook up. Thats the kind of plays she was interested in writing. On a whim, as a way of encouraging her partner, to write, she started constructing plays by pulling words from a cookbook.

Over the course of her career, she was around many plays and always struggled to read them. The first play she ever read was Ibsen's Hedda Gabler. Later, when asked to direct at Milwaukee Rep., she chose Hedda to translate and direct. Ten years afterwards, she wrote THE SUMMER IN GOSSENSASS as a reaction to the experience of researching, adapting, and directing Ibsens Hedda.

Production History. THE SUMMER IN GOSSENSASS began at the Iowa Playwrights Workshop in 1994 at the University of Iowa in Iowa City under the title, Ibsen and the Actress. It was workshopped again in 1995 at the Padua Hills Playwrights Festival and in 1997 at Womens Project and Productions in NYC. Its first production was at the Womens Project in 1998 at the Judith Anderson Theater, where it concluded their 20th anniversary season. Critics didn't quite know what to make of it, calling it, amusing, cloying, and idiosyncratic. Often not fully produced, it has been seen a few times on college campuses in recent years, the latest being at the University of Notre Dame in 2021.

From the Director. THE SUMMER IN GOSSENSASS is a play that celebrates the process of theatre making, especially writing, reading, translating, critiquing, acting in, directing, and adapting plays. Its been called an adaptation of Hedda Gabler, but that doesnt quite fit. Its been described as a history account of the 1st London production of Hedda Gabler (its characters are based on the real Elizabeth Robins and friends!), but that doesnt quite capture it either. These characters, this plot, actions and discussions are something more. They are Maria Irene Fornes's deconstructionist inquiry into the problem of Hedda Gabler. She uses adaptation as a form of debate, contesting Hedda's history, criticism, translation, and reception. She takes what has been considered a major work of the canon and strange-ifies it, purposefully unmooring us from any assumptions or already formed judgements we might have about it or its place in the theatrical record. She calls out its translators for needless omissions, additions, and embellishments. She says, let General Gablers daughter be destructive! Dont mitigate her corrosive qualities! She says, shame on you for misinterpreting this play! (while castigating her own critics at the same time.)

This play is a play about playwriting, but not the solitary act of one man writing alone. It is a play about the Fornes version of playwrighting: one that embraces community, communion with those who come to the table as collaborators, and with a play as talked about as Hedda, those that came before. With THE SUMMER IN GOSSENSASS, Fornes as playwriting teacher is calling to theatre makers saying, please, a play needs a listener, a responder, a witness, and an advocate. Make a place for that to happen. Find a way to let art be generous and kind. We will all reap the benefits.

Character Breakdown.

Although the characters described below are based on real people, we are looking for the most diverse cast possible. Roles are open to any actor comfortable with them. None of these roles will be understudied.

ELIZABETH ROBINS (She/her, caucasian). Based on the real actress, playwright, essayist, and suffragist who directed the first English language production of Ibsens Hedda Gabler as well as played Hedda, and who was instrumental in translating it into English.

MARION LEA (She/her, caucasian). Based on the real actress and friend of Elizabeth Robins who played Thea in the first English language production of Hedda Gabler as well as helped work on the production.

LADY BELL (She/her, caucasian). Based on the real friend of Elizabeth Robins who helped produce the first English language production of Hedda Gabler. A playwright, linguist, critic, and lover of the arts.

VERNON (He/him, caucasian). Based on Elizabeths real brother who came to live with her in London. A medical student.

DAVID (He/him, any ethnicity). An actor. Based on Ibsens many biographers. In the script hes described as someone whose interest in theatre has caused him to collect documents and memorabilia of theatre artists for whom he has a special admiration. Fornes has amalgamated all of Ibsens biographers into one enormous super-fan of All Things Ibsen, putting him onstage so she can share all the tidbits of her research through him. With the character of David, she grants Ibsens biographers their wish, allowing them to finally meet their idol and experience Hedda Gabler firsthand. David is the ultimate Ibsen nerd, in the room with an invitation from the playwright. He knows everything about Ibsen and couldnt be more excited to be a part of the adventure.

Elizabeth Robins and Company. Elizabeth Robins (1862-1952) is the actress best known for introducing Hedda Gabler to English speaking audiences. An American from Kentucky, Robins was an extremely popular actress, who worked with leading companies and leading actors like Edwin Booth (brother of John Wilkes Booth) and James ONeill (father to Eugene ONeil). Friends with Henry James and George Bernard Shaw (it was Oscar Wilde who encouraged her to stay in London after meeting her at a party). She was fascinated by changing acting styles and wanted to interpret characters using these new, more realistic methods. After playing Mrs. Linden in Ibsens A Dolls House, she learned about Hedda Gabler and became enthralled with the idea of playing the role, not only because of the strong character, but because of the way it argued for a different life for women, one not just about being the ideal homemaker and mother, but also about having a thriving artistic life. After a few false starts, including fights with battling translators, and wrestling the license away from a wealthy British socialite she thought was an abominable actress, she formed a theatre company called, Joint Management, with her friends, Marion Lea and Florence Bell, and produced the play to sold out houses. As with all initial productions of Ibsens plays, reviews were mixed. But all thought highly of Robins performance, one calling her Hedda, a remarkable achievement, another saying that she glorified an unwomanly woman, and Oscar Wilde bought a ticket for a second night, writing in his journal that Robins performance was a real masterpiece of art.

Marion Lea, also a celebrated American actress in her own right, was famous for her characterization of Audrey in As You Like It. She played Thea in their production, as well as cast it.

And Florence Bell, some years their senior, was a playwright, novelist, and critic who worked in the London theatre. She served as dramaturge for the play, and collaborated with Robins on other plays, including writing a controversial script about postpartum depression called Alans Wife.

These woman may have been left out of history books, but they were theatre professionals who worked as contemporaries with the famous men we've heard of. Because of Victorian views on womens work, they had to hide their efforts, using pen names and going as far as burning their writing. They were involved in feminism, the suffrage movement, and protests against the human effects of industrialization. They worked for womens organizations and wrote for feminist magazines. They ran a theatre company dedicated to the new realism. And now, thanks to the research of scholars working to unearth their papers, we've come to learn that it was these women who translated the 1891 English language version of Hedda Gabler, not Edmund Gosse as originally published.

Why this play now? My admiration for the work of Maria Irene Fornes began in graduate school when I was lucky enough to be cast as Cecelia in a production of Fefu and Her Friends. I had never read a play that appealed so completely to my experience of being a woman in this world, particularly, the nature of womens friendships. After the production ended, when we were all feeling like we had accomplished something quite singular, our department held a school-wide critique of the show. The all white cis-male group of directing professors and graduate students told us that our production of the play wasnt successful because they couldnt understand it. They concluded that Forness play wasnt worthy of production because it didnt appeal to a universal audience. I was flabbergasted. Why does every play have to appeal to everyone? There are plenty of plays that dont appeal to me.

The idea of the universal as the only artwork that is good or true has been one of the leading arguments used to keep oppressed peoples stories out of the theatrical canon. 'If it doesnt appeal to the widest audience, then it shouldnt be produced' was their line of reasoning. But all this does is exclude. The effect of this way of thinking has been that only a certain group of plays have been studied and included in our history books - those written by the majority. My experience acting in Fefu sparked my commitment to unearthing the voices of erased theatre by women and the plays of Fornes in particular. SUMMER IN GOSSENSASS allows us to explore Forness later work and highlight a play of hers that isnt often produced because it isnt easy to understand and doesnt appeal to everyone. It also has the added benefit of telling us the forgotten stories of Elizabeth Robins and her friends, while exploring tough questions about theatre and theatre making, and while investigating an iconic, and frequently misinterpreted womans role - Hedda Gabler. This play brings a more diverse perspective to the stage, so we might be faced with seeing not only ourselves, but others as well in ways that deliver us from our own limited view of the world.

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Hundreds of deodorant-sized devices are being strung up around an Australian city to measure differences in temperature.

The gauges will be placed along roads, in trees, and on buildings to gather data which will be used to create a map of Sydneys microclimates. This information will help planners design measures to keep us cool as rising summer heat increases to record levels, threatening health and wellbeing.

In order to shield the readers from direct solar radiation, theyll be placed inside reusable white aluminium cans. Each device will take note of the temperature every 10 minutes until March 24, and cumulatively gather over 3 million readings.

The City of Sydney is installing 200 devices to measure microclimates. Source: Supplied

While 150 of the logging devices will only take temperature readings, 50 others will also gather humidity data to estimate a feels like reading.

2023 is set to be the hottest year on record and the problem is set to worsen because countries like Australia, China, Russia and the United States continue to mine and burn large amounts of fossil fuels.

This is causing the level of carbon in the atmosphere to increase, and this causes more severe and extreme weather.

Climate study will help protect city's workers

Research from Western Sydney University has found the temperature could become 10 degrees hotter during the summer months as a direct result of the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. This phenomenon is caused when hard surfaces like buildings and roads absorb large amounts of warmth during the day.

The City of Sydney is working to reduce the impact of UHI through strategic planting of shade giving trees, and the removal of species like London Plane Trees.

The temperature devices have been placed inside reusable aluminium cans. Source: Supplied

Western Universitys Dr Sebastian Pfautsch is leading the new temperature measuring program. He has warned without better understanding of the citys microclimates visitors to the city and workers will be left defenceless when extreme heat strikes.

The question is not if the city centre will ever see 45 degrees, but rather how well the city is prepared to care for its people when the mercury hits new records, he said.

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Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the study will help the city prepare better strategies to cool the community.

Our climate is trending warmer and the weather is becoming more extreme, so we must prepare and adapt, she said.

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Tourists entering Australia have been warned not to play with wild koalas after footage emerged of a man feeding and stroking a large male on a low-hanging branch.

In the video, visitors to a popular Victorian holiday island can be heard chuckling as they watch the man blissfully handing the marsupial wads of young eucalyptus leaves.

While the dangers of feeding dingoes and crocodiles are now widely known by travellers, it seems many aren't aware of the threat posed by Australia's fluffy marsupials. And no, the main threat isn't chlamydia, a sexually transmitted disease many koalas carry.

It's their claws and teeth.

Tourists visiting Australia have been filmed feeding and patting a koala. Source: Koalas of Raymond Island

They may look cute and cuddly, but they have sharp teeth that are like a vice. And the claws are like razor blades  theyll open you right up, Victorian koala rescuer Shelley Robinson told Yahoo News Australia.

The worst ones are little joeys because their claws are like needles because they havent been blunted by climbing.

They dont mean to hurt you. Theyre just nicely holding onto you and all of a sudden theyve cut through the skin just from touching you.

'Drop bears' may be a myth, but koalas can be dangerous

Don't worry, this isn't a stitch-up about about "drop bears"  they're an urban legend about koala-like creatures with sharp teeth that tour guides share tales of to scare travellers from far off countries like the United States, England, China and Japan.

This is a genuine warning that koalas can be dangerous if you handle them without the necessary expertise. It's worth noting, that just like with eagles, in most states wildlife volunteers actually need to do extra training to care for them.

Last year a Gold Coast driver learnt a hard lesson when she tried to rescue a koala on a road and ended up falling over after it tried to scale her leg. You can watch the video of tourists feeding a koala on Raymond Island below.

Humans pose greater risk to koala health

While koalas can hurt you, they dont pose a threat to human life. But when humans blunder around koalas their actions can be fatal to the marsupials.

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Giving water to koalas straight from a bottle is a known problem as it can deliver the liquid straight to their lungs and give them pneumonia or cause aspiration.

Feeding them is also a bad idea, because a koala taking leaves from humans low to the ground signifies something could be wrong with the animals health.

Robinson is the president of Koalas of Raymond Island on Victoria's Gippsland Lakes and she has some clear advice. Dont feed them, touch them, or pet them. If theyre on the ground its an indicator something is wrong, she said.

If you see a koala that isn't high in a tree, it's suggested you should call a local wildlife rescue group which will assist you free of charge.

What happened to the koala in the video?

Luckily for the man in the video, another tourist recognised it was a problem and notified Robinson and her team of rescue volunteers at Koalas of Raymond Island.

Sari, a traveller from Finland, then waited with the animal for help to arrive. The koala, named Tobias, was actually well-known to the group which has named and cared for many of the Victorian tourist islands marsupial residents.

After rescuers noticed a large scratch on his body from fighting during breeding season, the team gave him treatment and then released him a couple of days later.

If youd like to find out more about Koalas of Raymond Island or make a donation to help fund wildlife care you can find out more here.

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The United States Clinical Laboratory Services Market is anticipated to reach a market size of worth of US$ 125.6 billion by 2030, up from 93.0 billion in 2022, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% during the projected period from 2023 to 2030.

Clinical laboratory services in the United States play a vital and indispensable role in the detection, prevention, and treatment of diseases. These crucial services encompass a wide array of tests, including blood and urine testing, providing invaluable health information for both patients and healthcare providers. The clinical laboratory services market is poised for a remarkable surge, driven by the escalating prevalence of chronic diseases necessitating a robust and efficient diagnostic infrastructure, which clinical laboratories readily provide. Apart from this, the constant advancements in diagnostic technologies are revolutionizing the field of clinical laboratory services.

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The escalating prevalence of chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer has intensified the need for accurate and timely diagnoses. This surge in demand for precise testing is a pivotal catalyst propelling the growth of the clinical laboratory market in the United States. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), these chronic diseases are responsible for approximately 41 million deaths annually, accounting for 71% of all global deaths.

The global incidence of chronic diseases continues to rise, and this trend is likely to persist in the clinical laboratory services market in the coming years. The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study reports a 40% increase in the number of individuals living with chronic diseases over the past three decades. One of the primary factors driving this rise is the aging population. As the global population ages, the prevalence of chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes has significantly increased. According to the WHO, the number of individuals aged 60 years and over is projected to reach 2 billion by 2050.

Unveiling the Enigmatic Nexus of Government Support and the Flourishing Clinical Laboratory Services in the US

In the intricate tapestry of the clinical laboratory services industry in the United States, a profound synergy emerges between the relentless demand for robust diagnostic capabilities and the steadfast support of the government. Medicare and Medicaid, the two largest payers of clinical laboratory services, allocate substantial funding for these services. In 2021, Medicare spent approximately $7.5 billion, while Medicaid spent around $4.5 billion on clinical laboratory services.

The government also plays a crucial role in funding research and development in the field of clinical laboratory science. The National Institutes of Health (NIH), the largest public funder of biomedical research globally, allocated $584 million in 2020 for clinical laboratory science research This funding supports innovation and advancements in laboratory science, contributing to the market growth.

Furthermore, the government regulates clinical laboratories to ensure they meet specific quality and safety standards. The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) program oversees more than 250,000 laboratories in the United States, ensuring that they adhere to the necessary guidelines.

In addition to federal support, some states provide additional funding and support for clinical laboratory services. For instance, the state of New York has a laboratory grant program that offers funding to support laboratory testing and related activities. California has a state-run public health laboratory system that provides diagnostic testing and surveillance services to detect and respond to outbreaks of infectious diseases.

Demand for Personalized Medicine: A Major Factor for Robust Revenue Growth

In recent years, the demand for personalized medicine has skyrocketed, becoming a major driving force behind the robust revenue growth in the healthcare industry. The increasing demand for personalized medicine can be attributed to the advancements in technology, such as genomic sequencing and high-throughput screening, which have made it more accessible and cost-effective to analyze an individuals genetic information. This has paved the way for a new era of precision diagnostics and targeted therapies.

Patients are becoming more proactive in managing their health and are seeking personalized treatment options. They are increasingly aware of the potential benefits of personalized medicine, including the potential to prevent diseases before they manifest or to identify the most effective treatments for existing conditions. This shift in patient mindset has created a demand for healthcare providers who can offer personalized medicine services.

The growing demand for personalized medicine has led to partnerships and collaborations between healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, and research institutions. This collaborative approach allows for the sharing of knowledge, resources, and expertise, ultimately driving innovation and advancing personalized medicine.

Bioanalytical and Lab Chemistry Services in the US Clinical Services Market to Attain 59% Sales Revenue

The realm of clinical laboratory services in the United States is witnessing a flourishing revenue stream, predominantly attributed to the realm of bioanalytical and lab chemistry services, and this upward trajectory is poised to persist. Numerous factors contribute to this remarkable growth.

The escalating prevalence of chronic and infectious diseases in the United States necessitates extensive laboratory testing, further fueling the demand for bioanalytical and lab chemistry services within the clinical laboratory services market. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes stand as the leading causes of death and disability in the country. The effective diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of these ailments often hinge upon laboratory testing, encompassing bioanalytical and lab chemistry services.

Technological advancements have revolutionized the landscape, rendering it possible to conduct a broader range of tests with heightened accuracy and efficiency. The advent of automated laboratory equipment and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) have bolstered laboratory efficiency, curtailed errors, and expedited the delivery of test results.

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The aging population constitutes yet another catalyst contributing to the substantial revenue share of bioanalytical and lab chemistry services. Older individuals typically necessitate more extensive medical care, including an increased reliance on laboratory testing, in comparison to their younger counterparts. With the population continuing to age, the demand for laboratory services is likely to witness a significant surge.

List of Key Companies Profiled

Qiagen Inc.

Opko Health, Inc.

Abbott Laboratories

Charles River Laboratories

Johnson & Johnson

Roche Laboratories

Pfizer Inc

Eli Lilly

Novartis Laboratories

Merck Inc.

Astrazeneca

Arup Laboratories

Davita, Inc.

Siemens Healthcare Limited

Viapath Group Llp

Almac Group

Neogenomics Laborateries

Eurofins Scientific

UNILABS, SYNLAB International GmbH

H.U. Groups Holdings, Inc.

Sonic Healthcare

ACM Global Laboratories

Amedes Holding GmbH

BioReference Laboratories, Inc.

Other Prominent Players

Segmentation Overview

By Test Type Segment

Clinical Chemistry Testing

Endocrinology Chemistry Testing



Routine Chemistry Testing



Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) Testing



Specialized Chemistry Testing



Other Clinical Chemistry Testing



Microbiology Testing

Infectious Disease Testing



Transplant Diagnostic Testing



Other Microbiology Testing



Hematology Testing

Immunology Testing

Cytology Testing

Genetic Testing

Drug Abuse Testing

By Application Segment

Bioanalytical and lab Chemistry Services

Toxicology Testing Services

Cell & Gene Therapy Related Services

Preclinical & Clinical Trial Related Services

Drug Discovery & Development Related Services

Others

By End User Segment

Hospitals

Government Agencies

Physicians

Clinical Labs

Pharmaceutical Companies

Others

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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 Fern Siegel , December 6, 2023

Santa Teresa, Venezuela's oldest producer of single-estate rum, has debuted its latest ad campaign: Great Rum, Greater Purpose.

The campaign is running online and across brand-owned social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram.

Directed by Matt Bendo, it features noted Venezuelan actor Cesar Manzano. It also highlight's the brand's ongoing work with ex-gang members through Project Alcatraz, which provides them a second chance via educational opportunities, psychological assistance and rugby.

The spot also includes Nancy Duarte, the brand's first female master distiller, and Project Alcatraz member, Anther Herrera. Creative is from Only Much Lounder, a Mumbai-based agency, working with Venezuelan production agency Black Cat.

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The Santa Teresa 1796 brand was created in 1996, to commemorate the hacienda's bicentennial. A triple-aged, molasses-based solera rum, 1796 is produced via a complex process of blending rums aged five to 35 years in bourbon oak barrels. According to the company's site, the solera method ensures the varied flavors and aromas coming from the production process are merged in a consistent liquid, little changed from the original production. The brand has 40% alcohol, with a sweet taste that gives way to drier flavors, and a long finish, meaning the sensation of the rum lingers on the palate.

Alberto Vollmer, CEO of Santa Teresa Rum, told Agency Daily: "The campaign pays tribute to both pillars of our brand mission  creating an exceptionally smooth and globally recognized super-premium rum and providing opportunities for the lives of those within our local community in Venezuela. As our own story of tradition, transformation and innovation continues to flourish, through Project Alcatraz we are able to prode the tools that allow people to continue their own advancement alongside us."

Founded in 1796 as a coffee plantation and located in the mountainous Aragua Valley, Santa Teresa has distilled rum since 1830  and remains a family-run enterprise.

In 2021, Santa Teresa 1796 won the Gold Medal at the London Spirits Competition and the Silver Medal at the International Wine & Spirits Competition.
by Joe Mandese @mp_joemandese, December 5, 2023

The Association of National Advertisers (ANA) this morning released the second edition in a series of reports analyzing its in-depth studies of the programmatic media-buying supply chain, and one of the top recommendations for advertisers to formalize a new C-level role -- the Chief Media Officer -- in an effort to overcome one of the main issues identified by the studies: information asymmetry.

Marketers are not fully skilled in optimizing the management of their data, ANA CEO Bob Liodice explains in a forward to the just-released new edition, adding, Of critical importance, marketers are even less skilled in securing log-level data  a principal pathway to effective decision-making and driving growth via programmatic activities.

Such data is among the main fine and complex points of information strung along the programmatic supply chain that has been identified by the studies as contributing to the inefficiencies of programmatic ad buys. That was one of the key takeaways from a follow-up qualitative analysis published by Kroll, which was one of the consultants commissioned by the ANA to study the transparency issues associated with the programmatic media-buying supply chain.

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"In terms of information asymmetry, in a transparent business arrangement, both parties to the transaction have essentially equal access to material information. And thats how we define transparency. You dont need to know everything, but you need to know whats material," Kroll Regional Managing Director of North America Forensic Investigations and Intelligence Richard Plansky explained to MediaPost in an interview conducted in September.

According to findings released in the latest installment of the programmatic transparency study, only a third of ANA members said they felt knowledgeable about the "quality of inventory" they acquired through programmatic auctions.

"Advertisers should appoint a Chief Media Officer (either in title or function) who should take responsibility for the internal media management and governance processes that deliver performance, media accountability, and transparency," the ANA recommends in the new report, noting, "This executive should be the centralized internal resource to drive integration and share best practices across internal brand teams and external agencies.

"The Chief Media Officer should be the internal subject matter expert on the many important and complex media issues confronting advertisers today. Digital media expertise should be a foundational skill for this position.

"Furthermore, it is recommended that the Chief Media Officer develop relationships with key external media properties and programmatic supply chain partners with whom the advertiser conducts business."

The report cites the recommended role of the Chief Media Officer seven times, but never uses an acronym or suggests what it should be, given that CMO is will understood to represent Chief Marketing Officers.
by Steve McClellan @mp_mcclellan, December 6, 2023

American Family Insurance is partnering with Time magazine to present the Time Dreamer of the Year. The award was created last year to recognize an individual who works to protect, restore and champion dreams, while inspiring others to pursue their own.

Its part of American Familys broader brand platform, Dream Fearlessly.

advertisement advertisement This years recipient is Syd Kitson, an American real estate developer and former NFL player (Green Bay Packers, Dallas Cowboys 1980-85), whose ambitious project, Babcock Ranch, is a sustainable, master-planned community in southwest Florida.

The community is credited as the first solar-powered town in America, providing a model for sustainable living by integrating green technologies and eco-friendly practices into its design and operation.

The award is being announced today on NBCs morning show "Today." Creative ad agency Elite Media worked with Time and its Red Border content division to create a series of ads and videos that spotlight Kitson and his Babcock Ranch project.

The :30 version will debut during "Today," and will then run on a schedule of broadcast TV channels. The longer length video will appear across American Family Insurance and Time social media channels and digital properties. Media was handled by Performics.
by Sarah Mahoney @mahoney_sarah, December 5, 2023

Hinge, the dating app owned by Match, has always been about ending loneliness in the dating world. But with One More Hour, the company is now tackling loneliness in the community sense, announcing $1 million in grants to social groups that can help young adults find a sense of belonging and community.

This is a new initiative, but it's a continued commitment to our daters holistic wellbeing, says Josh Penny, Hinges director of social impact.

He tells Marketing Daily that the new effort will fuel in-person connection with grants of up to $25,000, aimed at boosting more access to third spaces. First spaces, he explains are home, and second places are work or school.

Third spaces are the communities, the physical places, the groups that are for your leisure. These places are about how you use your free time and offer the chance to connect with others in unpredictable ways.

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Concentrating on social organizations in Atlanta, Los Angeles, and New York, Hinge is working with nonprofits DoSomething Strategic and the Foundation for Social Connection, to develop benchmarks and identify potential grant recipients. Hinge will then create a panel of Gen Z judges to make the final awards.

Gen Z makes up Hinges core audience. And weve been so moved by the compelling evidence of just how impacted this group is by loneliness, he says. Todays young adults spend roughly 1,000 hours less per year in face-to-face socializing than their counterparts of 20 years ago. And they lost precious friend-making years during the pandemic.

They are replacing in-person connection with screen time, and only 31% of young adults socialize with others daily.

Hinges mission is to inspire more intimate connections to create a less lonely world, Penny says. And while this effort will boost friendship and community more than love, he says that ultimately, that kind of socializing is better for daters.

Romantic relationships arent the cure to loneliness. If everyone had stronger support networks and more connection in their life, that would be good for dating. It takes off the pressure to find one person who checks every single box."

Hinge is owned by Match, which also owns Tinder and smaller brands like OKCupid, Meetic, Plenty of Fish, BLK, Chispa and the League. Hinge is the Dallas-based companys fastest-growing brand, with revenues up 44% in the most recent quarter. It was the brands best quarter ever in terms of app downloads.

The effort is also using a somewhat softer sell, focusing on loneliness solutions rather than the mental health epidemic. Hammering down on big, scary social issues doesnt always resonate well with Gen Z, he says. For example, when climate change efforts focus on doom, that can backfire and keep them from acting. And we didnt want that to happen with what is essentially a mental health outreach. We want daters to feel excited about the possibilities of connecting with more people face-to-face.

Its not the first time the app has focused on Gen Z mental health concerns. During the pandemic, Hinge worked with the Surgeon Generals office to address loneliness in daters. The brand also supports the Crises Text Line. This year, it joined the Coalition to End Social Isolation & Loneliness, working with other companies on initiatives to reduce loneliness.
by Tanya Gazdik , December 6, 2023

Car sharing marketplace Turo is partnering with Warner Brothers Discovery on a promotion tied to the 20th anniversary of the iconic holiday movie "Elf" and its return to theaters.

Turo has created five limited-edition "Elf"-themed cars for guests to book in NYC from Dec. 6 to 12 on a first-come, first-served basis. For $20/day, fans can sign up for the experience, which includes four tickets to a theater showing of Elf, Buddy the Elf hats, and car snacks from the four Elf food groups  candy, candy canes, candy corns, and syrup. Trips must be booked for at least 48 hours.

This partnership is the latest campaign from Turo as it looks to open the door to extraordinary and provide its users with experiential adventures.

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Most recently, Turo partnered with the Jonas Brothers to list their personal cars on the platform, and also listed the Addams Family Hearse from Netflixs "Wednesday" for fans to book.

Starting today, consumers can find out more about the effort at a dedicated web page, turo.com/us/en/car-rental/united-states/elf.

Turo currently offers 350,000 vehicles in more than 12,000 cities across the U.S., U.K., Canada, France, and Australia, according to the company.

Discovery Global Consumer Products, part of Warner Bros. Discovery Global Brands, Franchises, and Experiences, is the companys licensing and retail merchandising organization.
by Ray Schultz , December 5, 2023

Signal Ohio, a nonprofit news startup, has launched its second newsroom in the state: Signal Akron. The new venture joins Signal Cleveland in the growing news network.

To date, six reporters and editors have been hired, and the newsroom is actively hiring to fill additional positions.

The new product is a critically important addition to the local news ecosystem, filling a void created by shrinking newsrooms across the region, says Debra Adams Simmons, senior director of editorial projects at WGBH, former editor of the Cleveland Plain Dealer and Akron Beacon Journal, and a Signal Ohio board member.

Signal Akron will expand the volume, depth and reach of news in the market while centering the experiences and amplifying the voices of the residents who live here, Simmons adds.

Thus far, Signal Akron has offered a look at police accountability, a report on the effects of the citys efforts to set neighborhood boundaries, and a guide to getting relief on utility bills.

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Signal Akron is set to launch Akron Alive!, a weekly newsletter about things to do in the Greater Akron area.

Also being featured is Signal Akron, the Akron Documenters program. The National Documenters Network by City Bureau trains and pays residents to cover public meetings; more than 100 Akron residents have joined so far.

As we launch and continue to build Signal Akron, Im excited to see our reporters include neighborhood voices and perspectives in their work. Our content will be driven by the community and the Akronites working in our Documenters program, said Susan Kirkman Zake, editor-in-chief of Signal Akron.

Signal Ohio is supported by local organizations including Knight Foundation, Akron Community Foundation, GAR Foundation, Goodyear, the Greater Akron Chamber, Huntington Bank, United Way of Summit & Medina, the University of Akron Foundation and the American Journalism Project, and by contributions from residents.

Signal Akron coverage is free at signalAkron.org, and through social media and email.
The joy of reading that can last a lifetime starts at the elementary school level, and the Auburn Enlarged City School Districts libraries are trying to spur students to develop the skill and thrill for it.

The districts five elementary school libraries have programs to get books into the hands of students to encourage a culture of reading. One such program at Casey Park is A Book a Day, in which kindergarteners through fifth graders can receive a new book every day.

The idea is they read a book a day, whether they've got 10 minutes here, five minutes there, whenever they can fit it, said Penny Pitman, Casey Parks librarian. It's to just encourage reading at any time, and then they return the books on Friday and we give them a new set of books the following Monday.

The books encompass a wide variety of genres and are geared toward kindergarteners through third graders, with another group for fourth and fifth graders.

I just try to choose a variety, a range, some funny, some sad, in some cases some more educational, some lighter than that, Pitman said. I will choose nonfiction as well, but right now, I'm just sticking with fiction.

The libraries also host open periods where students can come in and check out books.

Its the first half-hour of the day, 8:35 to 9, and then 2:30 to 3, where kids can come and exchange books, Pitman said. They don't have to wait until Wednesday for their library day. Its a nice feature to have in the morning; it gives them the opportunity. They can renew books, they can keep them as long as they want to finish. The older kids get two weeks, but they can always renew. If it takes them three months to read 'Harry Potter,' that's fine.

We're trying to teach, show them that you can get lost in a story, and actually visualize it, Pitman added.

Its a different challenge at the junior high and high school levels, where students read more for their classes and spend their leisure time on smartphones and video games.

It's a fact that students' interest in reading drops off once they get past elementary school. That is backed up by the research, said Beth Cuddy, who works at the high school library and is facilitator for the department.

Cuddy has talked to students she knew when she was at an elementary school to find out why they don't read as much.

I had students say to me that they would love to read, they just have so much reading to do for school that they don't have time to read for pleasure anymore, she said.

At the beginning of the school year, Cuddy speaks to English teachers to bring their classes to get familiar with the library and its programs, and to encourage student involvement. The library offers a wide variety of books to appeal to a students interests.

A big part of our role is the diverse collection that we have available for students to access, Cuddy said. A wide variety of resources, a wide variety of genres, that's a way to provide a lot of choice because a lot of times students might not like reading because they haven't found the right book.

If students aren't going to the library, Cuddy is bringing that experience to them by putting a collection of books in an English classroom to encourage them to read.

The hope is that if there's students that never get down here, well there's another opportunity to check out books, she said. I'm just trying to get more books available for more students that don't require physical space.

Cuddy said the high school and junior high libraries plan to host author visits, which she hopes inspire students to start writing. Jarrett J. Krosoczka, a New York Times bestselling author of more than 40 books and a National Book Award finalist, is scheduled to come to Auburn High School this March. Krosoczka is best known for his Lunch Lady graphic novels and select volumes of the Star Wars: Jedi Academy series.

Reading and drawing helped Krosoczka through a tough childhood, as he was raised by his grandparents because his mother was addicted to drugs. Cuddy hopes Krosoczka can inspire Auburn students and show that they can have a career as a writer or illustrator.

"I'm hoping the visit will spark students' creativity, she said. His message is so important, how art and literature saved him. I hope students can see how literature can change their lives. It's essential."
AURELIUS  There's a new sight while driving down Clark Street Road.

Instead of the bright yellow monolithic facade synonymous with Buffalo Wild Wings, a vibrant coat of azure has freshened the exterior of the same building. Casa Azteca Restaurante Mexicano & Cantinas wordless emblem looms high above the road, keeping the building from going the way of the buffalo or becoming another chain restaurant.

Before Casa Azteca was even a thought, restaurant co-owner Joel Aguirre told The Citizen on Monday, his footprint in the Finger Lakes started with a road trip. He decided to take the scenic route through the region while driving back to Ohio, where he calls home, from his Rhode Island restaurant, Agaves Mexican Grill.

Its an attractive part of New York, Aguirre said, noting he had heard good things about the region. Things began to click in Ithaca, where an idea rushed through Aguirre's mind. He credited the beauty of Buttermilk Falls. The rest is history: In 2015, Old Mexico Restaurant & Cantina came to fruition in Ithaca, followed by more restaurants.

The latest of them, Casa Azteca held its soft opening last weekend. The doors to the restaurant opened for family and close friends, giving them a taste of what Auburn and the surrounding area can expect. A bombardment of aesthetics  darkened interior, muted yellow walls, minimal decor and a working fountain in the center of the dining area  greets patrons before the host does.

We didnt have to do much, Aguirre said in regard to revamping the former Buffalo Wild Wings. Most of the work went into updating the kitchen and installing the fountain.

Much as the aesthetics may pop, Aguirre continued, it's the food and atmosphere that take precedence.

We want to bring the flavors of Mexico to (the Finger Lakes region), Aguirre said. We want good vibes and happy people.

The restaurant seats more than 200 people, making it a place families and friends can gather, relax and enjoy the food and company. Eventually, they'll be able to enjoy live music as well. Aguirre said he wants to partner with a mariachi band out of Cornell University to provide that addition to the atmosphere.

Casa Azteca's other co-owner, Rafael Atilano, is tasked with running the restaurant alongside Jose Reyes. Atilano told The Citizen hes been familiar with the restaurant business since childhood, taking on a variety of roles from his teenage years through the present. He moved to the area with his family from Tennessee, and they can be found helping out in the kitchen and elsewhere.

My kids are first-generation here, said Atilano, who hopes to keep Mexican traditions thriving in central New York.

The food at Casa Azteca is solely Mexican, not Tex-Mex. Aguirre, whose cultural roots stem from the state of Puebla, southeast of Mexico City, said the menu will focus on the cuisine from that region. Patrons can find tacos and quesadillas on the menu, but the restaurant wants to include more traditional cuisine like pozole, a soup with vegetables, meat and spices, and al pastor, a seasoned pork.

Were sticking with the menu with what we have for the time being, Aguirre said, but customers can expect more traditional specials.

Smiling, Aguirre said customers can expect "a pop in their tastebuds from Casa Azteca's food and beverages. As the menu develops, drink specials will as well, such as a jalapeno margarita with mezcal.

Plans for an official grand opening are underway. Aguirre emphasized that he wants the restaurant to grow naturally, and for kinks to be worked out as they emerge, so a date has not yet been set.

If you go WHAT: Casa Azteca Restaurante Mexicano & Cantina WHEN: Open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily WHERE: 1612 Clark St. Road, Aurelius INFO: For more information, including menus, call (315) 515-3001 or visit casaaztecany.com

Gallery: Mexican restaurant Casa Azteca opens in Aurelius
A staff sergeant in the U.S. Air Force Reserve from Texas was arrested Wednesday on felony charges related to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot, where authorities say he pushed and grabbed police officers and called one officer a "traitor.

Kyle Douglas McMahan, 41, of Watauga, was taken into custody in Dallas nearly three years after authorities say he joined the pro-Trump mob that attacked the Capitol wearing a red Make America Great Again hat with God written on it in black marker.

After the riot, his Google search history included: "Can I resign from the military if I do not want to serve an illegitimate president? and capitol terrorists identified, according to court papers.

He faces felony charges of assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers and obstruction of law enforcement, as well as additional misdemeanor offenses.

There was no lawyer immediately named in the court docket. The voice mailbox was full for a number listed for McMahan and a person who answered the phone at a number listed for a relative declined to comment.

A Department of Defense database identifies McMahan as a current staff sergeant in the Air Force Reserve, according to court papers. The Air Force did not immediately respond to questions and a request for comment from The Associated Press.

Authorities say McMahan was seen on camera pushing back and forth against an officer outside a Capitol door before going into the building. During another encounter with law enforcement inside, prosecutors say he attempted to swat at an officer and grabbed an officer's fingers, appearing to crush them in his hand.

Before he left the Capitol, he was captured on video telling one officer: Youre a traitor, according to court papers. Later that day, he was seen outside the Capitol wearing a green ballistics helmet and carrying an American flag.

Authorities say McMahan boasted on social media about being at the riot, writing: "For those that think we went in because of Trump is uninformed. We the people are the ones that need to rid our government of corruption, abuse and tyranny!

He is among roughly 1,200 people who have been charged with federal crimes stemming from the riot that left dozens of police officers injured and halted the certification of President Joe Biden's election victory. Those charged include dozens of former and active duty military or members of the reserve.

Nearly 900 defendants pleaded guilty or were convicted by a judge or jury after trials. Over 700 of them have been sentenced, with roughly two-thirds receiving prison sentences ranging from three days to 22 years.

____

Richer reported from Boston. AP Researcher Jennifer Farrar in New York contributed.
Doctors estimated in September that Jay Tenison, who was diagnosed with terminal cancer, had 3-6 months to live. One of the things on his bucket list was to fire a tank one last time.

Tenison, 39, is a former tanker who served from 2004 to 2008 on active duty and another five years in the Army Reserve. On Tuesday, he got to check that item off the list -- he fired his last shot at Fort Moore, Georgia.

It was everything I had hoped for, and went beyond my expectation, he told Military.com. When asked how he did on the gunnery event, which included the M1A2 Abrams main battle tank engaging multiple targets, he said, I killed everything.

Read Next: Hundreds of Military Promotions Approved by Senate Just Hours After Tuberville Releases His Hold

It was the culmination of a major movement in the Army community to get Tenison into an Abrams tank one last time after he posted the request on Reddit late last year. He reported his hair had started falling out, he was growing increasingly fatigued and had lost at least 60 pounds.

To me, this is one of the most special things I will do in command, Col. Ryan Kranc, commander of the 316th Cavalry Brigade, which oversees training for cavalry and armor troops, told Military.com. It's humbling.

Tenison was also awarded the Order of Saint George, a unique and prestigious medal worn around the neck, given to cavalry and tanker soldiers for outstanding service.

In early 2022, Tenison was diagnosed with Stage IV stomach cancer after reporting pain to his doctors. After months of chemotherapy, he got the worst news of his life -- there was nothing medical care could do for him and his doctor recommended he focus on quality of life.

Before the live fire, Tenison was put into a simulation of the Abrams, a virtual reality tool all soldiers go through before gunnery. He says he was quickly able to relearn how the tank operates. His only concern was climbing in and out of the tank. He also got to speak with basic trainees in tanker school, who wore COVID-19 pandemic-era masks to protect him.

The Abrams is relatively unchanged since Tenisons time in service, which included a deployment to Ramadi, Iraq, with 2nd Battalion, 37th Armor Regiment, during a kinetic time in the region. He spent some of the mission behind a desk doing administrative work, but also was a part of convoys for resupply missions and taking the dead off the battlefield.

We lost seven or eight guys; I got to carry the bodies back, Tenison recalled. We would just go and retrieve them. They would already be in a body bag.

He was struggling in college and with other personal matters when he joined the Army at 20 years old. Like many enlistees, he needed a reset button and was seduced by the $7,000 enlistment bonus to become a tanker.

He jokes that the Armys pitch shouldnt have been as easy as it was, but adds that he doesnt have any regrets. He later earned his masters degree in engineering from Arizona State University and had a passion for renewable energy, particularly solar power. He worked on designs for solar arrays for local municipalities and the Department of Veterans Affairs, including a project at the Los Angeles VA hospital.

In addition to getting behind a tank one last time, he spent time at the beach in Pensacola, Florida, with his daughters. They also took a trip to Disney World. One of the last things on his bucket list is skydiving.

I feel really special, Tenison said. Im going to make a video diary for my daughters for when theyre older. Im going to tell them to keep on going and keep giving back. Im hoping I can explain to them that this was a huge thing and what happens when a community supports itself.

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WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden on Wednesday said it was stunning that Congress has not yet approved tens of billions of dollars in military and economic assistance for Ukraine, as his administration warned of dire consequences for Kyiv  and a gift to Russia's Vladimir Putin  if lawmakers don't act.

Speaking at the White House, Biden said Republicans who are insisting on border policy changes as a condition for voting for the aid are playing chicken with our national security," even as he expressed openness to some policy changes.

Republicans in Congress are willing to give Putin the greatest gift he could hope for," Biden said, saying American credibility was on the line both with other would-be aggressors and with its allies. Any disruption in our ability to supply Ukraine clearly strengthens Putins position.

If we dont support Ukraine, what is the rest of the world going to do?" he added.

Biden's address comes hours after he huddled with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and leaders of the Group of Seven advanced democracies, which have staunchly supported Ukraine against Russia's ongoing invasion.

Biden has asked Congress for nearly $106 billion to fund the wars in Ukraine, Israel and other security needs, but has faced stiff resistance on Capitol Hill. Some Republicans have grown tired of providing support to Ukraine after the U.S. has already sent $111 billion, and other GOP lawmakers are insisting on stiff changes to U.S. border policy as a condition of voting for the measure.

Biden said he supports more funding for border security. I am willing to make significant compromises on the border, he said. We need to fix the broken border system. It is broken. He added that he's ready to change policy as well," but accused Republicans of wanting a political issue more than bipartisan compromise.

Republicans think they get everything they want without any bipartisan compromise," Biden said. Now theyre willing to literally kneecap Ukraine on the battlefield and damage our national security in the process."

But Biden has not publicly said what policy changes he would embrace.

The White House has sent increasingly sharp warnings to lawmakers of what would happen if they don't approve the measure before the end of the year, saying Ukraine's military would be stalled, or worse.

Were the reason Putin hasnt totally overrun Ukraine, Biden said.

On Capitol Hill, Senate Democrats were trying to advance the aid package later Wednesday, but the legislation had no way forward as Republicans vowed to withhold support unless it includes changes to U.S. border policy. Negotiations over the legislation all but collapsed this week.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, who has been an ardent supporter of aid to Ukraine, has told fellow Republicans to vote against the security package advancing.

Legislation that doesnt include policy changes to secure our borders will not pass the Senate, McConnell said in a speech on the Senate floor Wednesday. The situation unfolding at our southern border on President Bidens watch is a crisis of historic proportions.

Republicans pointed to the record numbers of migrants crossing the southern border and argued it posed a security threat because border authorities cannot adequately screen them. But their demand that Congress pass significant changes to U.S. border policy interjects into the debate an issue that lawmakers have grappled over for decades with little success.

By holding the test vote, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is daring his Republican counterparts to vote against the cause of Ukraine funding that most have previously supported. He said in a speech the Senate is facing a question that goes to the actual preservation of Western and democratic values in the world.

Democrats were also making their case through a series of events on Capitol Hill with Ukrainian officials, including the speaker of Ukraines parliament.

The pressure appeared to have little affect on the GOPs stance. But senators expressed some hope that Biden's remarks would revive the talks over border security policy.

This kind of thorny, difficult problem is exactly what Joe Biden and Mitch McConnell have worked on before. And we could use their help and their leadership on this, said Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., one of the senators involved in negotiations over border policy.

As they look past the test vote, GOP senators have prepared a proposal for the bipartisan group in the talks. So far, senators have found some agreement on raising the initial standard for migrants to enter the asylum system but were stuck over placing limitations on humanitarian parole, a program that allows the executive branch to temporarily admit migrants.

Were clearly engaging in the negotiations, trying to be able to solve this, said Sen. James Lankford, a Republican of Oklahoma who is involved in the talks.

But even if senators somehow find a way forward on the aid package, it still faces significant obstacles in the House. Hardline conservatives who control the chamber have vowed to block it unless it tacks to a broad set of hard-line border and immigration policies.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, already deeply skeptical of funding for Ukraine, has signaled he wont support the aid package if it does not adhere to H.R. 2, a bill that would remake the U.S. immigration system with conservative priorities. It passed the House on a party-line vote in May, but has been rejected by Senate Democrats.

Meanwhile, the U.S. is expected to announce a $175 million package of military aid to Ukraine on Wednesday, including guided missiles for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), anti-armor systems and high-speed anti-radiation missiles, according to U.S. officials.

Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, said Tuesday there is about $1.1 billion left in funding to replenish U.S. military stockpiles for weapons and equipment sent to Ukraine. And he said there is roughly $4.8 billion in drawdown authority still available.

-

AP writer Lolita C. Baldor contributed.
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip  Israeli forces battled Hamas militants across Gaza on Wednesday after expanding their ground offensive to its second-largest city, further shrinking the area where Palestinians can seek safety and halting the distribution of vital aid across most of the territory.

The assault on the south threatens further mass displacement within the besieged coastal enclave, where the U.N. says some 1.87 million people  over 80% of the population  have already fled their homes.

Much of the north, including large parts of Gaza City, has been completely destroyed, and Palestinians fear the rest of Gaza could suffer a similar fate as Israel tries to dismantle Hamas, which has deep roots in the territory it has ruled for 16 years.

Israel says it can no longer accept a Hamas military presence in Gaza after the Oct. 7 attack that triggered the war, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel will maintain open-ended security control over the territory, something opposed by the United States and much of the international community.

The Israeli military said Tuesday that its troops were in the heart of the southern city of Khan Younis after what it described as the most intense day of fighting since the start of the ground operation five weeks ago, with heavy battles in the north as well.

Pushed to the edge

For the past three days, aid distribution  mainly just supplies of flour and water  has been possible only in and around Rafah, on the southern border with Egypt, because of fighting and road closures by Israeli forces, the U.N.'s humanitarian aid office said.

The aid group Doctors Without Borders said fuel and medical supplies have reached critically low levels at the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the central town of Deir al-Balah. Up to 200 wounded people have been brought in every day since Dec. 1, when a weeklong truce expired, it said.

Without electricity, ventilators would cease to function, blood donations would have to stop, the sterilization of surgical instruments would be impossible, said Marie-Aure Perreaut Revial, the aid group's emergency coordinator in Gaza. She said they are also running low on surgical supplies and equipment to stabilize broken bones.

Gaza has been without electricity since the first week of the war, and Israel has severely limited fuel imports, forcing several hospitals to shut down because they cannot operate emergency generators.

Thousands of people have fled to the Rafah since Israel resumed its offensive after the cease-fire, including many from the north who have been displaced multiple times.

Hamza Abu Mustafa, a teacher who lives near a school-turned-shelter and is hosting three families himself, said the situation is extremely dire.

You find displaced people in the streets, in schools, in mosques, in hospitals  everywhere.

A Palestinian woman who identified herself as Umm Ahmed said the harsh conditions and limited access to toilets are especially difficult for women who are pregnant or menstruating. Some have taken to social media to request menstrual pads, which are increasingly hard to find.

For women and girls, the suffering is double, Umm Ahmed said. Its more humiliation.

Hundreds killed since cease-fire

The war has killed more than 16,200 people in Gaza  70% of them women and children  and wounded more than 42,000, according to the territory's Health Ministry. It says many are also trapped under rubble.

The ministry does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths. Its overall tally tracks with a figure released this week by the Israeli military, which said about 5,000 of the dead were militants, without saying how it arrived at its count.

The military says 88 of its soldiers have been killed in the Gaza offensive.

The military accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields when the militants operate in residential areas. But Israel has not given detailed accounts of individual strikes, some of which have leveled entire city blocks.

Military Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi said militants keep weapons in homes and other buildings so fighters in civilian clothes can use them to fire on troops.

Striking them requires significant use of fire, both to target the enemy but also to, of course, protect our forces, he said Tuesday.

Israel says it must remove Hamas from power to prevent a repeat of the Oct. 7 attack, when Hamas and other militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took captive some 240 men, women and children after bursting through Israel's vaunted defenses.

More than 100 hostages were released during last weeks cease-fire, along with 240 Palestinians imprisoned by Israel.

But an estimated 138 hostages remain in Gaza, mostly soldiers and civilian men, and accounts of widespread rape and other atrocities committed during the rampage have deepened Israel's outrage and further galvanized support for the war.

No end in sight

Hamas' continuing ability to fight in the north, where Israel entered with overwhelming force weeks ago, signals that eradicating the group without causing further mass casualties and displacement  as Israel's top ally, the U.S., has requested  could prove elusive.

Even after weeks of bombardment, Hamas top leader in Gaza, Yehya Sinwar  whose location is unknown  was able to conduct complex cease-fire negotiations and orchestrate the release of scores of hostages last week. Palestinian militants have also kept up their rocket fire into Israel.

The war has been an unprecedented catastrophe for Palestinians civilians, eclipsing all four previous wars between Israel and Hamas, and their suffering is set to worsen as the offensive grinds on.

After the full-scale evacuation of northern Gaza ordered by Israel early in the war, most of Gazas population was squeezed into 230 square kilometers (90 square miles) of central and southern Gaza.

Since moving into the south, the Israeli military has ordered people out of nearly two dozen neighborhoods in and around Khan Younis, further reducing the area where civilians can seek refuge by more than a quarter.

It was not clear how many people heeded the evacuation orders, as many Palestinians say they don't feel safe anywhere in Gaza and fear that if they leave their homes they will not be allowed to return.

___

Magdy reported from Cairo. Associated Press reporter Najib Jobain in Rafah, Gaza Strip contributed.
Ingalls Shipbuilding christened the U.S. Navys newest amphibious assault ship, the future USS Bougainville (LHA 8), during dockside ceremonies at the Pascagoula, Miss., shipyard Saturday morning.

(These) ships, like the future USS Bougainville, make our Navy and Marine Corps team a potent fight; providing forward-posture across the globe, ready to respond to crisis and disaster, said Under Secretary of the Navy Erik Raven, the events keynote speaker.

Raven also paid tribute to Ingalls shipbuilders.

I see why the Department of the Navy has enjoyed such a long and successful relationship with this yard, he said. You are special, and together you represent the finest qualities of our great nation. Please remember this and remember that what you do matters. You play a critical role in defending our way of life.

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James Adams III also spoke during the ceremony. Adams was nominated in July for promotion to lieutenant general and to serve as commandant for the Marine Corps Programs & Resources, but his promotion is one of hundreds that has been held up by U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, who announced Tuesday he was ending his blockade of those promotions.

Bougainvilles christening symbolizes their enduring legacy  a legacy etched into the very soul of this vessel, Adams said. As was the case with Bougainville, the nation needs modern amphibious ships. They are the cornerstone of our nations global expeditionary crisis response force.

Bougainville is the second ship to be named in honor of Bougainville Island in the Solomons, the site of a World War II campaign in which the Navy, Marine Corps and U.S. allies secured a strategic airfield from the Japanese forces in the northern Solomons, which aided in breaking the Japanese stronghold in the Pacific.

Today is not only a day to celebrate our namesake, representatives of the successful outcome of a World War II campaign, but also the teamwork and collaboration of our United States Navy and Marine Corps that enabled it, said Ingalls president Kari Wilkinson.

To fulfill our mission here in the shipyard, our sailors and Marines serve as a stellar example of how this extended network works together to fulfill a bigger purpose.

Bougainvilles ship sponsor is Ellyn S. Dunford, wife of Gen. Joe Dunford Jr., the 19th chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the 36th Commandant of the Marine Corps.

From naval architects and engineers to welders and the supply team, they experienced their own challenges, including a pandemic, and true to the spirit of those who fought at Bougainville, they all met the challenge with tenacity and overcame each challenge, Dunford said.

Ingalls Shipbuilding has delivered 15 large-deck amphibious ships to the Navy, including the first two in the America class: America (LHA 6) in 2014 and USS Tripoli (LHA 7) in 2020. In addition, Fallujah (LHA 9) is currently under construction at the shipyard.

2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit al.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The expected start for the next generation of Tricare contracts has been delayed as a result of a lawsuit filed by Health Net over the Defense Health Agency's decision to award the contract for the western half of the U.S. to TriWest Healthcare Alliance.

Under the DHA's original timeline, the new contracts, which will be responsible for providing civilian health services to 9.6 million military personnel, retirees and their families, were scheduled to begin in August 2024.

But the 12-month turnover required for the anticipated start date has yet to begin, with the dispute now under consideration in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims.

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"As of this date, no T5 Transition-In activities have taken place," DHA spokesman Peter Graves said in an email Tuesday, referring to the fifth generation of Tricare contracts, known as T5. "The Health Net Federal Services' protest filed with the Court of Federal Claims remains pending."

DHA officials previously have said there will be no disruption to patient care, given that the current contracts will remain in place. But planned improvements to Tricare, such as allowing patients to transfer specialty care referrals after a move regardless of Tricare region and improvements to customer service, won't start until the new contract is in place.

After DHA awarded the Tricare East and West contracts, worth up to $136 billion over nine years, to Humana Government Business, also known as Humana Military, and TriWest last December, Health Net, which currently manages the Tricare West region, filed protests over the decision, arguing that TriWest did not have an existing Tricare network in place and would face technical challenges that could disrupt patient care.

The Government Accountability Office rejected those arguments and upheld the DHA's decision to award the contract to TriWest.

In its lawsuit, Health Net largely makes the same case. In its defense, TriWest says it plans to utilize the network it manages as the primary regional contractor in the West for the Department of Veterans Affairs' Patient Centered Community Care program and augment that network with subcontractors from major health networks in the 26 states it will oversee.

"DHA determined that TriWest's proposal offered the best value for providing comprehensive health care to our nation's military service members, their families, and military retirees. Health Net's subjective disagreement with DHA's decision should be rejected," TriWest attorneys wrote in court documents.

Sealed oral arguments on the case are scheduled for Dec. 20 in Washington, D.C.

The delay affects both contracts because, as part of the next generation of contracts, 1.5 million Tricare beneficiaries who live in Arkansas, Illinois, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin will shift from the East Region to the West Region.

Related: Tricare Costs Are Going Up Again in 2024
WASHINGTON  The Justice Department on Wednesday said it has filed war crime charges against four members of the Russian military accused of abducting and torturing an American during the invasion of Ukraine in a case that's the first of its kind.

The case marks the first prosecution against Russians in connection with atrocities during their war against Ukraine and is the first war crimes case involving the victimization of an American, officials said.

The Justice Department and the American people have a long memory, Attorney General Merrick Garland said in announcing the case. We will not forget the atrocities in Ukraine. And we will never stop working to bring those responsible to justice.

The four Russians are identified as members of the Russian armed forces or its proxy units. Two of them are described as senior officers. None of the four is in custody.

The Russians are accused of kidnapping the American from his home in a Ukrainian village in 2022. The American was beaten and interrogated while being held for 10 days at a Russian military compound, before eventually being evacuated with his wife, who is Ukrainian, U.S. authorities said.

The American told federal agents who had traveled to Ukraine last year as part of an investigation that the Russian soldiers had abducted him, stripped him naked, pointed a gun at his head and badly beaten him, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said.

The evidence gathered by our agents speaks to the brutality, criminality, and depravity of Russias invasion, Mayorkas said.

Homeland Security and FBI investigators interviewed the American, his family and others who were around the village of Mylove around the time of the kidnapping to identify the four Russians, Mayorkas said.

Garland has been outspoken on war crimes in Ukraine since Russia's invasion began in February 2022, and the Justice Department assigned federal prosecutors to examine the potential of bringing criminal charges.

Independent human rights experts backed by the U.S. have said theyve found continued evidence of war crimes committed by Russian forces, including torture that ended in death and rape of women aged up to 83 years old.

The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin in March for war crimes, accusing him of personal responsibility for the abductions of children from Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia doesnt recognize the ICC and considers its decisions legally void. He called the courts move outrageous and unacceptable.

The United States is not a member of the ICC, but the Justice Department has been cooperating with it and supporting Ukrainian prosecutors as they carry out their own war crime investigations.

The charges carry mostly symbolic significance for the moment given the unclear prospects that any of the four defendants would ever be brought to an American courtroom to face justice. They come as the Biden administration, in an effort to show continued support for Ukraine during a separate war between Israel and Hamas, is pressing Congress to approve military and economic aid for Kyivs war effort.

The U.S. and Russia do not have an extradition treaty, but the Justice Department has brought repeated criminal cases against Russian nationals, most notably for cyber crimes and including for interference in the 2016 presidential election. In some of those cases, the defendants have been taken into custody by American officials, such as when theyve traveled outside Russia.
The opinions expressed in this op-ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Military.com. If you would like to submit your own commentary, please send your article to opinions@military.com for consideration.

The recent Houthi strikes on commercial shipping vessels in the Red Sea represent an expansion by Iran on the scope of its attacks on American interests in the Middle East. Since the Israeli bombardment of Gaza began on Oct. 17, Iranian-backed Shia groups have attacked American forces in Iraq and Syria 76 times. These strikes injured more than 60 American troops.

The U.S. has responded with four precision airstrikes, mainly targeting empty buildings and ammo bunkers in Syria, some of which killed a small number of militia fighters. Iran considers these buildings and low-level fighters dispensable, which partly explains their deployment in the uncontrolled regions of Syria instead of within Iran's borders.

The disproportionate scale of Iranian attacks to American responses lays bare that Iran, not the U.S., holds deterrence in this power imbalance. Should the U.S. continue to ignore attacks by Iran-aligned groups, a catastrophe may lie ahead. To restore American deterrence, the U.S. must strike targets Iran holds at value: its bases inside Iran.

Iran does not seek war with the U.S. any more than the U.S. invites a direct war with Iran. A full-out war would place the survivability of the regime in Tehran at risk. Instead, Iran hopes to control the dials of pressure against both the U.S. and Israel.

The groups striking American troops in Syria include Asaib Ahl al-Haq, Badr Organization and Kata'ib Hezbollah -- all formed to advance Iranian interests in the Middle East and all of which receive funding and arms from Iran. Meanwhile, the Houthis are less tightly tethered to Tehran than these groups and often strike independently of Iranian orders. The Houthis are more a partner force than an arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), Iran's most potent security organization.

Nonetheless, Tehran can influence the Houthis and enables the group with arms and funding. Houthi forces are incapable of launching coordinated drone strikes against multiple ships at sea, as the group has done, without Iranian resources.

Iran-backed Lebanese Hezbollah, a group that functions as an IRGC branch in Lebanon, ensures that Israel maintains attention and an IDF element focused on its northern border while engaged in what will likely be a monthslong offensive in southern Gaza.

In Iraq and Syria, Iran wants American troops with their heads down, hunched in defensive positions. In the Red Sea, Iran seeks to disrupt commercial shipping and oil flow through key maritime chokepoints to introduce sufficient regional instability to tip the balance of power away from Riyadh and toward Tehran. To do so, the IRGC pushes arms and funding to all these Shia groups. While these groups on occasion act out on their own, Iran can generally restrain or direct these attacks.

With American troops in Iraq and Syria, Iran wants something else as well. Defense officials familiar with Iranian intelligence tell me that Iran believes a strike that kills multiple American service members could incite the U.S. Congress to remove all American troops from those two countries. The Iranian regime may be on to something here: Last March, after a drone strike killed an American contractor and wounded American troops, Republicans in Congress moved unsuccessfully to withdraw the hundreds of American troops remaining in Syria.

Should another strike kill or injure more American troops, another withdrawal proposal may succeed. The thinking in Tehran is that a certain number of American dead may result in a complete American withdrawal, leaving Iran to bolster its influence across both countries and bully the rest of the region. But if the casualty number is low enough, Iran wagers it can avoid all-out conflict with the U.S.

One month ago, the Houthis shot down an American drone operating in international airspace without an American response. Seeing no consequences, the group has now graduated to attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea, an escalation that could detonate bubbling tensions in the region. The Houthis could introduce regional or even global instability if merchants, fearing attacks, discontinue the flow of energy and commerce through the Bab-el-Mandeb or the Strait of Hormuz. More than 10% of international commercial transport flows through these chokepoints. More than a quarter of global oil transits the Strait of Hormuz. These waterways are critical energy and commerce arteries, crucial to American interests and global energy and trade.

In dialing the attacks on land and at sea up and down, Iran seeks to stay on the near side of a threshold that would trigger an American response. That threshold is unknown to Tehran and probably to Washington, D.C. The rocket attacks against American bases are meant, in part, to test how far Iran can go without triggering a significant reaction. The danger: In testing the Biden administration, should Iran trip over a red line, both countries could stumble into war.

To prevent a catastrophic miscalculation and defend American troops and interests in the region, the U.S. must go beyond strikes on inconsequential targets in Syria. Deterrence of Iran, or any other state for that matter, is based on perception. For deterrence to work, leaders inside Tehran must perceive that the U.S. has not only the means but also the will to inflict such significant pain that the imposed costs of any further attacks outweigh the benefits. Right now, Tehran does not believe the Biden administration has the will.

Beyond the quartet of American air strikes, the administration has mobilized a pair of aircraft carrier strike groups to the theater. The militia groups' attacks, meanwhile, continue apace, now paired with the attacks at sea.

The messaging from the Pentagon has not helped. According to official statements, the two carrier strike groups were moved to the region to "address risks" and "respond to contingencies." Left unclear is whether these two dozen ships, more than 100 aircraft and thousands of troops are on hand to defend American forces in the region, protect the maritime straits, provide humanitarian relief to Gazans or strike at Iranian targets. In response to the Dec. 3 Houthi attacks on three separate commercial vessels, U.S. Central Command explained, "The United States will consider all appropriate responses." Given the tepid reactions to the 76 strikes on American forces in Iraq and Syria, it's unclear what the administration would consider an appropriate response.

The United States cannot influence Iran's behavior by targeting its surrogate militants. However, the instances where America has imposed direct, consequential losses upon the Islamic Republic have seen success in curbing hostile actions. A notable instance was during the Tanker War in 1988 when, under President Reagan's orders, American ships destroyed more than half of Iran's naval fleet, prompting an end to its belligerence and persuading Khomeini to conclude the protracted conflict with Iraq. A more recent example was the targeted elimination of Quds Force leader Qassem Soleimani in January 2020, which precipitated a marked decline in Iranian hostilities toward American forces and interests in the Middle East.

To restore deterrence and put a cap on escalation, U.S. forces must strike assets of value to Tehran. For example, a limited, precision strike against IRGC training bases inside Iran would send a message that the administration has moved beyond the back-and-forth exchanges inside Syria. Such a strike against empty IRGC facilities would avoid a broader war and allow room to scale up. An unmistakable public message should follow, clarifying that the carrier strike groups are in the region to climb the escalatory ladder should Iran choose to do so and inflict crushing damage against more significant Iranian targets. Similarly, a strike on IRGC naval assets in the Persian Gulf, followed by a clear public message, would restore deterrence.

Supreme Leader Khamenei is a rational actor. As president and supreme leader, he has held power in the world's most volatile region for four decades. He understands violence and its cost. He must be made to understand precisely how far he can go in provocations without prompting a war between two states looking to avoid one. Washington must be willing to impose significant costs on Iran for its actions

Joe Buccino is a former communications director at U.S. Central Command, and a retired U.S. Army colonel with five deployments to the Middle East during his military career.
Generations Bank recently appointed Angela Krezmer as its 13th president and CEO  the first woman to hold both roles for the company.

In addition, Krezmer has been elected to join the board of directors, contributing her insights and leadership to the strategic direction of the bank. Krezmer, who has been serving as the chief financial officer of the bank since 2021, will continue to fulfill her role in this capacity.

Prior to joining Generations Bank, Krezmer served as chief financial officer of Prosper Bank, now known as Presence Bank in Coatesville, Pennsylvania. Prior to that role, she served for more than a decade at Fairport Savings Bank in Fairport, where she held various positions, including chief financial officer.

She is a graduate of Rochester Institute of Technology and ABA Stonier School of Banking and has worked in the banking industry since 2008.

"We are excited to announce Angela Krezmer as our new president and CEO. In a historic move for our Seneca Falls-based organization, a town renowned for women's rights, Ms. Krezmer becomes the first female president and CEO, the chairman of the bank's board of directors, Brad Jones, said in a news release. Her proven track record, strategic vision, and commitment to excellence make her the ideal candidate to lead Generations Bank.

Krezmer served as interim principal executive officer since Oct. 16 after the passing of Generations Banks previous president and CEO, Menzo Case. The bank said that Krezmer succeeding Case, who served in the role for 15 years until his passing in October, will bring continuity and innovation to her new role.

"I am honored to take on the role of president and CEO at Generations Bank," Krezmer said in a statement. "I am committed to maintaining the high standards set by my predecessor and steering our dedicated team toward a future that prioritizes community well-being and progress.
How to use the mindat.org media viewer

Click/touch this help panel to close it.

Welcome to the mindat.org media viewer. Here is a quick guide to some of the options available to you. Different controls are available depending on the type of media being shown (photo, video, animation, 3d image)

Controls - all media types

Zoom in and out of media using your mousewheel or with a two-finger 'resize' action on a touch device.

Use the mouse or your finger to drag the image or the view area of the image around the screen.

< and > at the left and right hand side of the screen move forwards and backwards for the other images associated with the media you selected. Usually this is used for previous/next photo in a gallery, in an article or in search results. Keyboard shortcuts: use shift + the left and right arrow keys.

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> in the bottom center, raises the information box giving details and further options for the media, < at the top of this box then hides it. Keyboard shortcuts: use the up and down arrow keys.

? opens this help window. Keyboard shortcuts: use the H key or the ? key.

Other keyboard shortcuts:

1 Fit image to screen 2 Fill screen with image 5 Display at full resolution < Make background darker > Make background lighter space Hide/dim titles and buttons

Scalebar

If the field of view (FOV) is specified for the photo, the scalebar appears in the left bottom corner of the viewer. The scalebar is draggable and resizeable. Drag the right edge to resize it. Double click will reset the scalebar to it's default size and position. If the scalebar is in default position, double click will make it circular.

Controls - Video

Video files have a standard set of video controls: - Reset to start, - Skip back, - Play, - Pause, - Skip forwards. Keyboard shortcuts: You can stop/start video play with the P key.

Controls - Animation (Spin Rotation)

Animation (usually 360 degree spin rotations) have their own controls: - enable spin mode. Note that while images are loading this option will not be available but will be automatically activated when the animation has loaded. Once active you can spin the image/change the animation by moving your mouse or finger on the image left/right or by pressing the [ or ] keys.

The button switches to move mode so that you can use your mouse/fingers to move the image around the screen as with other media types.

The button, or the P key will start playing the animation directly, you can interrupt this by using the mouse or finger on the image to regain manual movement control.

Controls - 3D Stereoscopic images

If a stereoscopic 3D image is opened in the viewer, the 3D button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "3D settings" menu. The 3D images can be viewed in several ways:

- without any special equipment using cross-eyed or parallel-eyed method

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- with anaglyph glasses.

- on a suitable 3D TV or monitor (passive 3D system)

For details about 3D refer to: Mindat manuals: Mindat Media Viewer: 3D

To enable/disable 3D stereo display of a compatible stereo pair image press the 3 key. If the left/right images are reversed on your display (this often happens in full-screen mode) press the 4 key to reverse them.

Controls - photo comparison mode

If a photo with activated comparison mode is opened in the viewer, the button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "Comparison mode settings" menu.

Several layouts are supported: slider and side by-side comparison with up to 6 photos shown synchronously on the screen. On each of the compared photos a view selector is placed, e.g.: Longwave UV . It shows the name of currently selected view and allows to select a view for each placeholder.

Summary of all keyboard shortcuts
The Northern Border Regional Commission has created a new program to address the rural doctor shortage in four states, including upstate New York.

The program will waive visa requirements for doctors trained in the U.S. if they set up their practices in the area covered by the commission, which includes Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and 28 counties in upstate New York.

To receive a waiver, the physicians must work in certain communities  identified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as health professional shortage areas or medically underserved areas  for at least three years and 40 hours a week, according to the commission.

There is a similar program under the Appalachian Regional Commission, which stretches from counties in Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi to the Southern Tier in New York.

Chris Saunders, federal co-chair of the Northern Border Regional Commission, noted rural areas face challenges with access to health care.

"As part of the Biden administration's commitment to rural communities, it is with great excitement that the commission undertakes this effort to address the region's health care workforce shortages and bolster one of the underlying elements that make economic development possible," Saunders said.

Members of Congress in the northern border region support the creation of the waiver program to attract more doctors to the Northeast. The backers include Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, both of New York.

"Rural communities from Penn Yan to Plattsburgh know the struggles of health care worker shortages all too well," Schumer, D-N.Y., said. "This long-awaited initiative will help provide rural and underserved areas across upstate New York with quality, affordable health care by working to address ongoing physician staffing shortages."

The Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership that began in 2008. The goal of the initiative is to boost economic development in the states covered by the commission.
The Orioles are seriously engaged on free agent reliever Craig Kimbrel, reports Joel Sherman of the New York Post (X link). Baltimore has been involved on a number of late-game bullpen arms as they look to compensate for the loss of Felix Bautista to Tommy John surgery.

Kimbrel wouldnt be as notable a pickup as Josh Hader or Jordan Hicks, in whom Baltimore reportedly also expressed interest. Kimbrel would be a far more affordable acquisition, though. Thats more a reflection of his age (36 in May) than performance, as the nine-time All-Star turned in a generally solid showing for the Phillies.

After inking a $10MM free agent contract with Philadelphia last winter, Kimbrel operated in his customary closing role. He picked up 23 saves with seven more holds while blowing only five leads in the regular season. The right-hander worked to a 3.26 ERA through 69 innings, striking out a little over a third of opponents in the process. Kimbrels fastball sat in the customary 96 MPH range, while he picked up a whiff on nearly 14% of his offerings.

It was a good season overall, even if it ended on a less resounding note. Kimbrel allowed four runs with five strikeouts and walks apiece over six innings in the postseason. It was the second consecutive season that didnt end as hed hoped; Kimbrel had been left off the Dodgers playoff roster in 2022. Yet his overall body of work over the past three years  a 3.10 ERA with a 34.4% strikeout percentage across 188 2/3 innings  is quite strong.

With the possible exception of Hader, no pitcher could reasonably be expected to rival what the Os wouldve anticipated from a healthy Bautista. Kimbrel remains an above-average reliever, though, one who clearly has no qualms handling the ninth inning. If the Os plugged him in as closer for a season, theyd be able to keep Yennier Cano and Danny Coulombe in a setup capacity.
The Reds have engaged in conversations with the White Sox regarding right-hander Dylan Cease this offseason, per Gordon Wittenmeyer of The Cincinnati Enquirer. Cease, 28 this month, has been among the most discussed trade targets of the offseason to this point, with Chicago GM Chris Getz suggesting yesterday that theres no club in the majors without at least some level of interest in the right-handers services. Wittenmeyer goes on to caution that nothing concrete has developed from the discussions between the sides at this point.

The fit certainly makes sense for the Reds. The right-hander is coming off something of a down season in 2023 during which he posted a fairly pedestrian 4.58 ERA, though his 3.72 FIP, elevated .330 BABIP, and unusually low 69.4% strand rate all indicate there may have been some bad luck baked into those results. The idea that Cease may be closer to a front-of-the-rotation arm than his 2023 results indicate is backed up by his phenomenal 2022 campaign, during which he posted a sterling 2.20 ERA with a 3.10 FIP while striking out a whopping 30.4% of batters faced. Overall, Cease has pitched to a 3.54 ERA (121 ERA+) with a 3.40 FIP in 97 starts since the start of the 2021 season, striking out 29.8% of batters faced while walking 10.1% along the way.

That sort of playoff-caliber starter would provide a major boost to a Reds club that struggled to a rotation ERA of 5.43 this year, bottom three in the majors ahead of only Oakland and Colorado. The clubs situation isnt quite as dire as that figure may make it seem; the club has an interesting group of young starters headlined by Hunter Greene and Andrew Abbott that also includes the likes of Graham Ashcraft, Nick Lodolo, Brandon Williamson, and Connor Phillips. The club also recently landed right-hander Nick Martinez on a two-year deal last week, fortifying their rotation depth. That being said, the group offers little certainty aside from Greene, and the addition of a frontline starter such as Cease would take pressure off the clubs younger arms as they look to establish themselves as big league starters.

Cease is far from the only arm the club has looked into who could fill this role. Cincinnati has reportedly discussed a deal for right-hander Shane Bieber with the Guardians while also showing interest in Rays righty Tyler Glasnow. While Cease figures to cost more in terms of prospect capital more than either of those two alternatives, hes the only one of the trio controllable beyond the 2024 campaign. He also figures to be the cheapest to acquire from a financial perspective, as Cease is projected by MLBTR contributor Matt Swartz to received just $8.8MM in his penultimate trip through arbitration. By contrast, Bieber is projected for a $12.2MM salary in 2024 while Glasnows salary for next season is locked in at $25MM.

The Reds are far from the only team engaged on Cease. While Getzs remark that all 29 other clubs have interest in Ceases services is surely at least somewhat hyperbolic, the right-hander has garnered plenty of interest this winter with the Dodgers, Cardinals, Mets, Orioles, and Red Sox among the clubs to show interest in the hurler so far this offseason. The Braves have also been connected to Cease frequently over the past several weeks, though more recent reports have downplayed the clubs interest. Even so, the market for Cease is clearly robust, and there have been indications that a deal for the righty may not come together until the top of the rotation market- which includes the likes of Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Blake Snell has been sorted out.

Cease is not the only player Wittenmeyer suggests the Reds have interest in, as he also connects the club to infielder Jeimer Candelario. That the Reds have interest in Candelarios services is nothing new, as the sides were linked last month at the outset of free agency. At the time, it seemed likely that the clubs interest in Candelario may have been predicated on a trade from the clubs glut of infielders that already includes Elly De La Cruz, Noelvi Marte, Matt McLain, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, Jonathan India, and Spencer Steer. While such a deal has not yet materialized, it seems possible the clubs plans may not be so simple. While not discussing the switch-hitting Candelario specifically, Krall told reporters (as relayed by Wittenmeyer) recently that the club could add a switch-hitter that plays the infield to their positional mix, with such a move allowing the Reds to push Steer to the outfield more often.

Candelario, 30, would add some balance to the clubs righty-dominated infield mix. Only De La Cruz (a fellow switch-hitter) ever bats from the left side among Cincinnatis bevy of young infielders, though lefties TJ Friedl and Jake Fraley both help to balance the overall lineup somewhat as members of the clubs outfield mix. Candelario, who hit .251/.336/.471 overall last season with the Nationals and Cubs, could be in line of a three- or four-year deal this offseason according to Wittenmeyer. Thats in line with MLBTRs prediction of a four-year, $70MM deal that earned Candelario the #13 spot on our annual Top 50 MLB free agents list.

The Angels, Diamondbacks, Blue Jays and Nationals are among the other clubs Candelario has been connected to this offseason, though its worth noting that Arizona subsequently landed Eugenio Suarez in a trade with the Mariners, likely taking them out of the sweepstakes for the third baseman. Despite that interest, Wittenmeyer suggests that Candelarios market, like that of many upper-level positional free agents, has been held up by the bidding on two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani. Ohtani has commanded the attention of big-market clubs such as the Jays, Angels, Dodgers, Cubs and Giants to this point in the offseason, and as such its hardly a surprise that the leagues other top free agent hitters prefer to wait out Ohtanis free agency in case one of those teams looks to pivot after missing out on the superstar.
Numerous Wisconsin fire departments responded to a fast-moving house fire near the Michigan border.

According to the Marinette Fire Department, crews responded to the structure fire in the 1800 block of Wisconsin Street at 7:05 p.m. on Tuesday. Marinette is located across the Menominee River from Michigans Upper Peninsula.

All the residents were able to evacuate the home, but a Marinette firefighter sustained burns while trying to rescue pets that were trapped inside. He was taken to St. Marys Hospital in Milwaukee and is expected to be released in the next few days, officials said.

One resident was also taken to a local hospital for smoke inhalation, officials said.

Due to the features of construction and the age of the structure, conditions rapidly deteriorated and interior operations had to be ceased and transitioned to an exterior only, defensive operation, firefighters said in a statement. Two ladder trucks were put into operation and conditions continued to worsen and at this point declared a total loss. "

Once the fire was extinguished, an excavator brought the remaining structure down, fire officials said.

The Menominee Fore Department, Peshtigo Fire Department, Grover/Porterfield Fire Department, Wagner Fire Department, Wausaukee Fire Department, Coleman Fire Department, Mellen Fire Department and Oconto Fire Department also responded to the scene.

Local businesses also provided beverages and snacks for the firefighters.
MACOMB COUNTY, MI  A Michigan man is facing criminal charges after allegedly threatening to assassinate Arabs in a voicemail left for an attorney, officials said.

Walter Purvis, 53, of Detroit, was arraigned this week in 41B District Court in Macomb County on the charge of false report/threat of terrorism related to the voicemail left for his Clinton Township-based attorney, according to a news release from the Michigan Department of Attorney General.

Dissatisfied with the resolution of a criminal case in which he pleaded guilty to disturbing the peace related to an incident at a Southfield gas station, Purvis placed multiple calls expressing this dissatisfaction to the attorney who had represented him, the release said.

Finally, he left the alleged threatening voicemail, the release said. In the voicemail, Purvis allegedly described a grievance with Arabs arising out of his criminal case and threatened to assassinate them.

This was a serious, racially biased threat of violence left on the voicemail of someone who, as an attorney, had no choice but to report the potential threat, Michigan AG Dana Nessel said in a statement.

Purvis is charged as a habitual fourth offender. The offense is punishable by incarceration up to life or any term of years. Purvis bond was set at $500,000 cash/surety with house arrest and electronic tether upon release. He is due back in court on Monday, Dec. 18.

Michigan chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations spoke out in support of the charges.

We welcome the charges and arraignment of the suspect and thank law enforcement for acting before any alleged threats became actions, said Dawud Walid, executive director of CAIR-MI. With the disturbing rise in anti-Arab and anti-Muslim violence and bigotry in the past two months, every threat must be taken seriously and investigated.
As banking continues to shift toward less of an in-person experience, Bank of America has closed more than 100 branches in the United States this year and has more closures planned in 2024. Here in Michigan, three branches in Oakland County have been shuttered already according to data from the Office of the Comptroller of Currency.

The three locations closed in Michigan are:

4000 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills

27500 Novi Road, Novi

150 East Maple, Troy

A fourth branch, located at 1310 South Rochester Road in Rochester Hills, is expected to close on Jan. 26, 2024, however a new branch is being opened two miles away at 3035 South Rochester Road, according to the OCC website.

Bank of America is currently the second-largest bank in the U.S. with an estimated $2.5 trillion in assets, according to Forbes. The Charlotte, North Carolina based bank operates more than 3,800 branches in the U.S. and some outside the country.

Along with closures in Michigan, hundreds of branches across the U.S. have either already closed or are preparing to close in the coming months. In California, more than 40 closures have been announced, while in Florida at least seven branches are expected to shutter. In Texas, nine closures have been confirmed with another planned next year, and in Washington eight branches are expected to close between 2023 and 2024.
DETROIT -- A 36-year-old Detroit woman is facing multiple charges after she fled from police over the weekend which eventually caused the trooper to fracture their leg. According to Fox 2 Detroit, Lauren Fant, was charged with one count each of resisting and obstructing, fourth-degree fleeing and eluding, driving with a suspended license, and driving without insurance in connection with an incident Saturday afternoon.

Fant was allegedly spotted speeding around 12:05 p.m. in the area of 8 Mile Road and Wyoming Avenue by a trooper with the Michigan State Police. When the trooper attempted to pull Fant over, she did not comply and continued to drive away at a slow speed.

The trooper called for backup and followed Fants vehicle as she drove down side streets before turning into the driveway of a home in the 20000 block of Strathmoor Street. Fant then got out of her car and the trooper attempted to restrain her, but Fant allegedly resisted.

The trooper was able to get Fant down on the ground, but fractured their leg in the process. Fant then went into her house and barricaded herself inside for more than an hour. Troopers negotiated with Fants husband during that time and she eventually surrendered to police.

The trooper was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment and is expected to recover.
YPSILANTI, MI -- A 14-year-old Ypsilanti high school student attempted to stab another student during school, according to police.

One student allegedly attempted to stab another student with a box cutter during an altercation around 10:15 a.m. Friday, Dec. 1, at Ypsilanti Community High School, according to Derrick Jackson, Washtenaw County Sheriffs Office spokesperson.

The students, both 14-year-old boys, were known to each other and had an ongoing quarrel, police said, adding the victim was not injured during the incident.

The student who allegedly attempted to stab the other was released to his parents, police said. Neither are currently attending school while school officials investigate, Ypsilanti Community Schools Superintendent Alena Zachery-Ross said.

The safety and well-being of our students are our highest priority, Zachery-Ross said in an email. We take any threat to our school community very seriously and have comprehensive measures in place to respond to such situations.

The incident will go to the Washtenaw County Prosecutors Office for charges, police said.

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LIVINGSTON COUNTY, MI -- A driver got out of his car, beat another man and left him lying in the roadway on Tuesday, Nov. 5, according to the Livingston County Sheriffs office.

Police were called to Latson Road north of Grand River Avenue in Genoa Township around 12:30 p.m. for a road rage incident, according to a press release.

When Livingston County deputies arrived, the suspect had fled and the other driver, a 66-year old Genoa Township, was lying in the middle of Latson Road with head trauma.

The 66-year-old man was taken to a local hospital for non-life threatening injuries, according to the sheriffs office.

Witnesses told police the man who assaulted the victim was driving a 2013-2015 silver or beige Chevrolet Malibu, according to the sheriffs office. The man was last seen southbound on Latson Road from Grand Oaks Drive.

A $1,000 reward is being offered for information that leads to an arrest.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers of Michigan at 1-800-SPEAK-UP. Callers will remain anonymous.

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WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI -- A group of three people from across the Washtenaw Intermediate School District (WISD) have been recognized for their efforts to help disadvantaged children and their families.

The inaugural Washtenaw County Head Start Awareness Award honored a trio of people who follow the Head Start programs mission in their everyday work, said Teresa Harrington, WISD Head Start quality assurance specialist. The honorees received their awards during a Nov. 28 meeting of the Washtenaw County Board of Education.

We really wanted to have a recognition of folks that actually live the Head Start mission, Harrington said. That shows up in the work that they do with the children and families.

Head Start is a nationwide network of programs designed to help break cycles of poverty and providing preschool children of low-income families with programming that meets their emotional, social and health needs, according to the Michigan Head Start Association.

Recipients of this years award included: Margaret Lyons, who works for WISD as an early Head Start home visitor; Sue Wanamaker, Whitmore Lake Public Schools Early Childhood and Kids Club program director; and Chris Sturdivant, an Ypsilanti Community Schools bus driver.

Its an honor and a privilege (to be recognized), Lyons said. I love helping families and making sure they have what they need to be successful.

(The award winners) bring the Head Start mission to life and serve as outstanding examples of how Head Start works in the lives of children and families, WISD officials said in a Facebook post honoring the recipients.

Four districts within the WISD have Head Start programming currently, including Ann Arbor Public Schools, the Lincoln Consolidated School District, Whitmore Lake Public Schools and Ypsilanti Community Schools.

The WISD intends to make the award ceremony an annual function after 2023, Harrington said. Nominees can include all staff, volunteers and community partners that aid Head Start efforts in their district.

The national Head Start program has served more than 30 million children since its inception in 1965, officials said.

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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WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI -- An Ypsilanti man who claimed he was unfairly targeted by the Washtenaw County justice system has pleaded guilty to his felony charges.

Shihab Jackson pleaded guilty on Friday, Dec. 1, in a hearing before Washtenaw County Trial Court Judge Carol Kuhnke to possession a firearm as a felon, two charges of attempted obstruction of a police officer, possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle and a reckless use of a firearm.

Jackson was originally charged with one count each of a felon in possession of a firearm, felon in possession of ammunition, carrying a concealed weapon and two felony counts of a resisting a police officer in the 14B District Court in March 2023. His case was bound over to the circuit court in April.

His other charges will be dismissed at sentencing, according to court records. He will likely be given one year of probation, according to a sentencing agreement.

Jackson did not respond to a request for comment.

Read more: Ypsilanti man facing gun charges rallies against prosecutor over traffic stop

Jackson claims he was charged after police stopped him in a pretext stop, or an unwarranted traffic stop used to search for criminal activity.

It must be repeated that my case involves no violence, Jackson previously said at a rally in his support that had gathered outside the Washtenaw County Trial Court in June. No victim, no death, no damage to property, no harm to society at all. My only offense is being an unlicensed Black man with a gun for self-protection.

The 34-year-old Ypsilanti man said he carries the firearm because he has been robbed at gunpoint. He maintains the charges are both an abuse of the criminal justice system and a walking back of campaign promises made by Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit.

Read more: Reformist candidate launches campaign for Washtenaw County prosecutor

The prosecutors office previously said in an email that its pretext-stop policy was followed in Jacksons case and declined to comment further.

The offices policy says contraband offenses  such as being in possession of controlled substances or unregistered firearms  will only be prosecuted if there was probable cause or a legal justification to justify a search.

Deputies from the Washtenaw County Sheriffs Office pulled over Jackson on Saturday, March 11, after seeing him fail to signal before making a righthand turn in Ypsilanti Township, according to police testimony from a preliminary examination in April. Jacksons vehicle also had a brake light out, deputies said.

When the officer requested Jacksons drivers license, he didnt have one or any other identification, according to testimony. Officers then asked Jackson to step out of the vehicle. He then allegedly attempted to run, prompting the officers to wrestle him to the ground and arrest him. During a search of his person, they found a loaded firearm, according to testimony.

Jackson will be sentenced on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, before Kuhnke.

Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page, the Ypsilanti-area news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter.
* With excellent progress in developing solar and wind power, electric vehicles and power batteries, China is a champion of the world in clean energy, said the IEA executive director.

* The United Nations positively evaluates China's efforts and important contributions to promoting peak carbon dioxide emissions and carbon neutrality, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said.

DUBAI, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- As the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) unfolds in Dubai, China stands out as a proactive force in global climate governance, contributing both resolve and wisdom to addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change.

It has to be understood that many achievements have been made in China, said Fatih Birol, chief of the International Energy Agency (IEA).

With excellent progress in developing solar and wind power, electric vehicles and power batteries, China is a champion of the world in clean energy, said the IEA executive director at a side event held at the China Pavilion of the ongoing COP28 climate change conference.

STRONG COMMITMENT

China will promote the establishment of a fair, reasonable, cooperative and win-win global climate governance system, said Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang in Dubai during a meeting with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

In recent years, China has actively yet prudently promoted the targets for carbon peak and carbon neutrality, said Ding.

China has committed to a "dual carbon" goal of reaching the peak of carbon emissions by 2030 and attaining carbon neutrality by 2060. The country has formulated a "1+N" policy framework to facilitate its implementation.

In addition to its commitment to domestic carbon reduction initiatives, China extends its support to developing countries, aiding them in their endeavors to effectively reduce emissions by sharing expertise, technology, and resources.

In his speech on Friday, Ding said that China has always kept its promise and made important contributions to global climate governance and vigorously promoted international cooperation on green development, energy revolution and climate change, and supported developing countries in enhancing their capacity to cope with climate change.

China has signed 43 South-South cooperation documents on climate response with 38 developing countries, trained about 2,000 officials and professional personnel specializing in climate response for more than 120 countries, and made notable contributions to building a fair and rational global climate governance system for win-win results.

SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS

China has made significant strides in promoting environmental sustainability. In 2022, the country's emission intensity of carbon dioxide decreased by more than 51 percent from 2005, while the installed capacity of non-fossil energy surged to 50.9 percent.

In response to climate change, there has been a substantial reduction in coal consumption per unit of GDP and China's forest coverage and stock have both risen over the past 30 years.

China also stands as a global leader in the new energy vehicles (NEV) industry. Its production and sales of NEVs rank first in the world, accounting for more than half of the world's total with more than 18 million NEVs in use.

Major economies are the main emitters of greenhouse gases and any action they take toward transitioning to renewable energy could have significant impacts, said Jordi Sole, a Spanish climate change expert and professor at the University of Barcelona.

China's transition towards clean energy has achieved significant progress: The aggregate reduction in CO2 emissions from China's electric vehicle shift could be at least 1 billion tons during 2023-40, equivalent to Japan's 2020 emissions, according to Bloomberg.

China's achievement in developing renewable energy resources has been phenomenal and people outside of China perhaps don't realize the scale of the shift that is taking place, said Dominic Waughray, executive vice president of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development.

Guterres said on Friday that the United Nations positively evaluates China's efforts and important contributions to promoting peak carbon dioxide emissions and carbon neutrality.

Developed countries that have caused the major part of global warming should take on their due responsibilities for climate change, Erik Solheim, former UN under-secretary-general and former executive director of the UN Environment Programme, told Xinhua.

PRAGMATIC COOPERATION

As a major responsible developing country, China stands ready to work with all parties to build a clean and beautiful world.

In November 2023, China and the United States issued "The Sunnylands Statement on Enhancing Cooperation to Address the Climate Crisis," emphasizing their commitment to work together and with other countries in addressing the climate crisis.

In 2022, the BRICS High-level Meeting on Climate Change was hosted by China via video link, resulting in the adoption of the Joint Statement of BRICS High-level Meeting on Climate Change and a shared commitment to jointly driving policy research on low-carbon green growth, technology cooperation, and collaborative pilot projects.

In 2021, China launched the Belt and Road Green Development Partnership Initiative with 28 countries and held nearly 20 thematic activities in the field of environment and climate.

China also put forward the Qingdao Initiative for Belt and Road Green Energy Cooperation, set up regional energy cooperation platforms, and held the Second Belt and Road Energy Ministerial Conference, consolidating the global consensus on green development and transition.

China's proactive approach to climate change stems not only from its eagerness to achieve sustainable development but also from a profound sense of responsibility in fostering a community of a shared future for mankind.

Through engaging in open dialogue and fostering pragmatic cooperation, China has demonstrated to the world that it is at the forefront of tackling climate challenges.

(Video reporters: Lyu Yanhao, Tai Beiping, Tian Ye, Zheng Mingda, Wang Yan, Guo Shuang, Yu Fuqing, Chen Mengyang, Luo Chen, Wang Dongzhen, Su Xiaopo, Meng Dingbo; video editors: Zhou Sa'ang, Zhao Xiaojing, Li Qin)
Thirteen high school students in the sprawling 24th Congressional District, including two from Cayuga County, have been nominated by U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney to attend military service academies.

Evan Moore, of Auburn, and Ebon Brown, of Union Springs, are among the students who received service academy nominations. Moore was nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy. Brown is one of two students in the 24th district who were nominated to multiple service academies. He will choose whether to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy or the U.S. Naval Academy.

The other nominees include Braedon Fonte, of Livingston County, who received three nominations  U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

Tenney, R-Cleveland, and other members of Congress can nominate high school students in their district to the U.S. service academies. According to Tenney's office, students must complete an application form, submit letters of recommendation, their school transcript and standardized test results. They also must write an essay describing why they want to attend a service academy.

A local committee tasked with reviewing the applications recommended the 13 students to Tenney, whose son is a U.S. Naval Academy graduate.

"One of my greatest privileges as a member of Congress is to nominate our next generation of leaders to these prestigious institutions, and each year, I am inspired by the exceptional applications submitted to our office and by their commitment to our country," Tenney said. "Congratulations to all the nominees, and I wish you nothing but success in your future as you aim to serve our country!"

Those who attend a service academy must commit to serve in the military for at least five years after graduation.

Tenney's service academy nominees The 13 students who were nominated by U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney to attend military service academies are:  Ebon Brown, Union Springs High School (Cayuga County), U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Naval Academy  Ian Cady, Oswego High School (Oswego County), U.S. Naval Academy  Samuel Chanler, Geneseo High School (Livingston County), U.S. Naval Academy  Braedon Fonte, Caledonia-Mumford High School (Livingston County), U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Military Academy  Daniel Gagnier, Mexico High School (Oswego County), U.S. Naval Academy  Griffin Garnot, Homeschooled (Ontario County), U.S. Merchant Marine Academy  Frank Hersom, Byron-Bergen Senior High School (Genesee County), U.S. Air Force Academy  Annalise Hobbs, South Jefferson High School (Jefferson County), U.S. Merchant Marine Academy  Ezekiel Krystaf, Lockport High School (Niagara County), U.S. Naval Academy  Brendan Laity, Marcus Whitman High School (Ontario County), U.S. Naval Academy  Evan Moore, Auburn High School (Cayuga County), U.S. Air Force Academy  Casper Stewart, Batavia High School (Genesee County), U.S. Military Academy  Bradon Wolfe, Paul V. Moore High School (Oswego County), U.S. Military Academy
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  You dont have to head south of the border to get delicious, authentic Mexican fare here in Grand Rapids.

Weve got plenty of great restaurants to choose from in Grand Rapids when youre craving some tasty tacos, burritos, enchiladas, fajitas, chips and salsa, or other mouthwatering Mexican cuisine.

This week, MLive/The Grand Rapids Press rounded up 10 local restaurants that are renowned for their authentic, freshly made Mexican fare. From decades-old establishments to those who are still new to the scene, these 10 places offer quality food and are a must-try, whether youre a local or just visiting the area.

Keep scrolling to read our top picks in the area. Please note that this article is not intended to be an exhaustive list, and we know there are plenty of other great Mexican restaurants in the area. You can let us know what other great, local spots were missing by emailing mfrick@mlive.com.

On Thursday, Dec. 7, readers will get a chance to vote for their top choice on the list. Be sure to check back at MLive.com to see the poll and cast your votes.

1. Donkey Taqueria

Donkey Taqueria has been serving up fresh, authentic Mexican fare in the bustling Wealthy Street Business District since 2013. The restaurant is known for its delicious tacos and margaritas, and also offers great outdoor dining spaces including private igloos that you can rent for $10 an hour.

The restaurant, at 665 Wealthy St. SE, is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with brunch served on weekends until 3 p.m. You can reach the restaurant by calling 616-259-9483 or visit its website or Facebook page.

2. Beltline Bar

Beltline Bar has been in the community for almost 70 years, changing the face of Tex-Mex cuisine in West Michigan. The eatery is known as the original home of the wet burrito, a Midwestern staple since it was coined at the restaurant in 1966, but also serves up other delicious classics including tacos, enchiladas, fajitas and more.

The restaurant is located at 16 28th St. SE in Grand Rapids. Its open Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight. You can reach Beltline Bar by calling 616-245-0494 or visit its website and Facebook page.

3. Maggies Kitchen

From their famous barbacoa tacos to their staff, everything at Maggies Kitchen is expertly seasoned with decades of culinary experience. Located at 636 Bridge Street NW, the restaurant has been serving up authentic Mexican cuisine for nearly 40 years on Grand Rapids West Side.

RELATED: Local Eats: Maggies Kitchen is a family-run Grand Rapids institution, offering authentic Mexican cuisine

Maggies Kitchen is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. You can reach the restaurant by calling 616-458-8583 or visit its Facebook page for regular updates.

4. Cinco de Mayo

Located right in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, Cinco de Mayo is a great spot for freshly made Mexican food available for dine-in and take-out, including tacos, enchiladas, burritos, fajitas, and more.

Cinco de Mayo, at 114 Monroe Center St. NW, is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. The restaurants Facebook page is linked here, or you can call the restaurant at 616-719-2401.

5. El Burrito

El Burrito is another great place to get your fix for delicious Mexican cuisine. The restaurant has a variety of menu items to choose from, including fajitas, burritos, tacos and enchiladas, as well as great margaritas and dessert items like churros and deep fried ice cream.

El Burrito, located at 1971 E Beltline Ave. NE., is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Find El Burrito online, on social media or call 616-447-0415.

6. Maya Mexican Grill & Bar

Maya Mexican Grill & Bar, located inside Rogers Plaza Mall in Wyoming, was previously named by MLive as one of the best Mexican restaurants in the state. Maya does everything well, from a solid margarita menu to homemade chips and salsa to fajitas and tacos, inside a vibrant atmosphere.

Related: These are the 10 best Mexican restaurants in Michigan

Maya is located at 1020 28th St. SW in Wyoming. Its open Tuesday through Thursday from 3-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from noon to 11 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m., according to hours posted on the restaurants Facebook page. You can reach the restaurant by calling 616-551-0782 or email mayagrill28@gmail.com.

7. Lindo Mexico

Lindo Mexico Restaurante Mexicano is a locally-owned restaurant thats been serving up authentic Mexican food in the Grand Rapids area since 2000. Located at 1742 28th St. SW, Lindo has a variety of all-authentic Mexican food, from lunch to dinner to dessert, all of which are family recipes and fan favorites.

Related: Michigans Best Local Eats: Lindo Mexico is home to authentic Mexican food near Grand Rapids

Lindo is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Heres a link to the restaurants website and social media. You can reach the restaurant by calling 616-261-2280.

8. Cantina Mexican Grill

Cantina Mexican Grill is a family-owned Mexican grill and bar that has been a staple in Grand Rapids since 1976. The eatery has a traditional restaurant upstairs if youre looking to sit down for a meal, or theres a downstairs lounge/bar area thats the perfect place to watch a game or hang out with friends while enjoying food and drinks.

Cantina is located at 2770 East Paris Ave., right off 28th Street in Kentwood. The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m. The downstairs lounge is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.

You can find more about the restaurant on its website and social media, or call the restaurant at 616-949-9120.

9. Luna

Luna, a Latin-inspired eatery with locations in downtown Grand Rapids and Ada, is another great place for Mexican fare in the area.

Lunas downtown Grand Rapids restaurant is located at 64 Ionia Ave. SW, and the Ada location is at 7471 River St. SE. Both locations are open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Sunday from 3-8 p.m.

You can reach the Grand Rapids restaurant by calling 616-288-6340, or find a menu here. The Ada location does not have a phone but can be reached by emailing LunaOfAda@Lunarestaurantgroup.com, or find a menu here.

10. El Cerrito

El Cerrito Cocina Mexicana is still fairly new to the scene in Grand Rapids but serves up delicious Mexican fare that is focused on authenticity and quality. Family is at the heart of the food and service at El Cerrito, which is owned by members of the same family that run two other El Cerritos, in Coldwater and Hillsdale.

El Cerrito is located at at 1400 Lake Dr. SE, in Grand Rapids Eastown neighborhood. The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. You can find more information online or on the restaurants Facebook page.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  A student accused of bringing a loaded handgun to Ottawa Hills High School has been charged with two felonies as a juvenile.

The student is charged with carrying a concealed weapon and a violation of a weapons-free school zone, both felonies, and misdemeanor charge of minor in possession of marijuana, Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker said Wednesday, Dec. 6.

Related: Student brought loaded gun to Grand Rapids school, district says

I appreciate the work of Grand Rapids Police, and Grand Rapids Public Schools, in promptly and professionally handling the case, Becker said in a statement.

Grand Rapids police said that the firearm confiscated had earlier been reported stolen.

The 15-year-old student was arrested Tuesday morning after a metal detector sounded at the entrance.

School officials stopped the student, who showed up late for school, and confiscated the handgun from the the students bag. Police responded and arrested the teen.

Superintendent Leadriane Roby said in a statement: It is disheartening to hear that guns are winding up in the hands of our young people as we all know the devastating consequences that can and have come as a result.

The school district in July reversed a backpack ban ahead of the start of this school year. The backpack ban was put in effect last May after the fourth incident of a student bringing a gun to school.

Related: Grand Rapids students glad to have backpacks back, but safety concerns remain

Read more:

Grand Rapids invests $300K to help families access daycare

2 children hurt after daycare bus rolls over in Kent County crash

Longtime bowling alley and bar in Clare completely destroyed in fire
OTTAWA COUNTY, MI -- Ottawa County commissioners have whittled a field of 11 candidates for an open spot on the board down to five.

Commissioners now intend to interview the five candidates during a special board meeting Friday, Dec. 8, with a final selection expected by Dec. 12.

The candidates selected during a Tuesday, Dec. 5 vote are Joseph McCarter, Joel Buck, Kendra Wenzel, Lynn Janson and Shawn Haff.

All live in Georgetown Township and are looking to replace former Commissioner Kyle Terpstra, who resigned Nov. 16 while citing significant changes in his personal and professional life.

Commissioners noted Tuesday that Terpstra was about to expand his family with a third child.

Related: Ottawa County Commissioner resigns due to significant changes in personal, professional life

Of the candidates selected to advance, McCarter received the most votes at eight, with Buck and Wenzel both receiving six and Janson with five. Haff and candidate Caden Hembrough both had four votes and commissioners then voted again on those two to select Haff for the interview field.

A majority of Ottawa County commissioners are affiliated with an ultra-conservative group called Ottawa Impact. The board has made several controversial decisions this year.

McCarter, according to an application he submitted, is the chief financial officer at Highlight Industries Inc. in Grand Rapids, a packaging equipment manufacturer.

He bills himself as someone who believes in decentralized, Christian government according to the USAs original constitution and model.

In a letter to commissioners, he thanked the board for living up to your campaign promises and working to deliver what you had campaigned on in 2022.

Buck is a design engineer and project manager for Skyline Fall Protection in Allendale.

In his application, he noted that he is clerk for a group called The Gideon 300, an organization created to inform and promote knowledge for liberty and livelihood.

Related: Firings, 6-hour meetings and childhood innocence: The far-right takeover of Ottawa County

Buck, in responding to a question about the purpose of local government, he said it should be a check and balance to protect the people from an over-reaching tyrannical higher government.

Janson is owner of Rush Marketing Services, which provides marketing services for auto dealerships.

In his application, he said the county should work to reduce the role government in the lives of the Ottawa County residents.

He also said that he appreciates what the current board has done to restore freedom.

Wenzel is currently an executive committee member with the Ottawa County Republican Party and a precinct delegate for Ottawa County as chair of membership.

In her application, she wrote that local government should be limited, transparent, efficient and financially responsible.

She also wrote that the pandemic brought lockdowns that eroded personal freedoms.

Haff is an attorney and owner of The Criminal Defense Law Center of West Michigan.

In his application, he said the role of local government is to protect the property rights and constitutional rights of the citizens of Ottawa County against federal, state and local overreach.

Want more Grand Rapids-area news? Bookmark the local Grand Rapids news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Grand Rapids daily newsletter.
JACKSON COUNTY, MI  If there is one thing Santa Claus and Jackson County residents have in common, its enjoying cookies during the holidays.

Whether you are a fan of chocolate chip, the classic sugar cookie or something completely unique, there are plenty of bakeries in the Jackson County area that offer sweet treats. Here are five great places in Jackson County to get a cookie.

An arrangement of cookies that are offered at The Five Forks bakery in Jackson.Photo provided by The Five Forks

The Five Forks

The Five Forks is a bakery that is owned by sisters Mallory Vredeveld and Maddison Husted.

The bakery sells a large range of goods, both custom orders and grab-and-go items. Inside of the big case, people can find a range of rotating cakes, cupcakes and even cookies.

Currently, the store is offering 4oz jumbo cookies for $4 each. Flavors include chocolate chip, frosted sugar, caramel gingersnap, peppermint Oreo, raspberry Linzer, hot cocoa and others.

Santa Claus will be at the bakery from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 9, where children can get a free cookie and a visit from Santa.

The Five Forks, 1194 N. West Ave., is open 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday.

More information can be found on its Facebook page and website.

Cookies are displayed in the case at The ABC Bakery, 1931 Horton Road, Suite 5 in Jackson, on Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022. The bakery offers donuts, bread, cookies and more.J. Scott Park | jpark4@mlive.com

The ABC Bakery

The ABC Bakery in Jackson is known for its baked good, which include its large, freshly baked cookies.

The cookies are $1.25 each. Flavors include peanut butter, M&M, oatmeal raisin, chocolate chip and molasses. Sugar cookies can also be found on the menu.

Owner Randy Treacher also will be making Kolaczki, a Polish filled cookie, which can either be filled with apricot or raspberry jam, he said.

People can purchase the cookies inside of the bakery, but Treacher encourages residents to order ahead to ensure they get what they want.

Santa Claus will also visit the bakery from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9 and Saturday, Dec. 16.

The ABC Bakery is located at 1931 Horton Road, Suite 5. The bakery is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

More information can be found on its Facebook page and website.

A customer peeks inside at The Blue Julep, 143 W. Michigan Ave. in downtown Jackson on Wednesday, May 4, 2022. The dessert shop offers a variety of sweets treats including cookies and cupcakes. J. Scott Park | MLive.com

Blue Julep

The Blue Julep is a staple to downtown Jackson, and offers a range of cupcakes, cakes, cheesecakes and, of course, cookies.

The store typically offers flavors including peanut butter, chocolate chip, no bake, snickerdoodle, iced molasses and iced sugar cookies, Owner Laura Davenport said.

The store also sells French macarons and specialty holiday flavors, including hand-decorated sugar cookies and a gingerbread houses.

Blue Julep is open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday; and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

More information can be found on its Facebook page and website.

The interior at For Goodness Cakes in Michigan Center on September 6, 2022. For Goodness Cakes serves a variety of baked goods, from cake pops and cupcakes to wedding cakes.Ryan Sun | rsun@mlive.com

For Goodness Cakes

For Goodness Cakes in Michigan Center is known for its sweet treats, especially its cookies.

Inside, the bakery offers ready to purchase cookies. Flavors include chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, white chocolate macadamia nut and one called the Kitchen Sink - a peanut butter cookie filled with pretzels, white chocolate, dark chocolate and coconut.

People can purchase a four pack of cookies for $3.

Owner Heather Watson also will offer sugar cookies decorated with Christmas trees, stars, ornaments and wreaths.

Cookie orders can be made by calling the bakery at 517-240-1880.

For Goodness Cakes is located at 309 Fifth St. in Michigan Center. The bakery is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

More information can be found on its website and Facebook page.

Heavenly Bakes & Cakes

Heavenly Bakes & Cakes is run by owner Andrea Burzynski inside of her home. While she does not offer a brick-and-mortar bakery, people can still order their holiday cookies.

Sugar cookies are decorated in shapes of snowflakes, Santa hats, stars, Christmas trees, and other holiday themes. Burzynski also makes the cookies with a buttercream frosting instead of a royal icing frosting, she said.

Orders can be made by calling 517-435-8741 or by messaging the Heavenly Bakes & Cakes Facebook page.

More information can be found on the bakerys website.

Want more Jackson-area news? Bookmark the local Jackson news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Jackson daily newsletter.

More great places in Jackson County:

5 great places to celebrate the Christmas season in Jackson County

5 great places to shop local for the holidays in downtown Jackson

5 great places to get tacos in Jackson County

5 great places to get a pie for Thanksgiving in Jackson County

5 great places to see fall colors before the leaves are gone in Jackson County

5 great places to get a Coney dog in Jackson

5 great haunted houses to visit in the Jackson area

5 great places to get fall-themed cocktails in Jackson County

5 great places to get a pumpkin in Jackson County

5 great dive bars to check out in Jackson County

5 great places to take a coffee break in Jackson County

5 great places to go on a first date in Jackson County

5 great doughnuts to try at Jacksons Hinkley Bakery

5 great breweries for craft beer in the Jackson County area

5 great places to watch live music around Jackson

5 great places to grab a burger in the Jackson area
SOUTH HAVEN, MI -- A former nurse convicted of second-degree murder will never practice health care again after her license was permanently revoked, Attorney General Dana Nessel announced.

On Tuesday, Nov. 21, the Michigan Board of Nursing Disciplinary Subcommittee voted to permanently revoke the registered nursing license of Judith Sobol, 43, formerly of South Haven, Nessel said in a news release.
KALAMAZOO, MI  The state attorney generals office has reached an agreement with a business operating out of Kalamazoo, barring its owner from establishing any legal entities in Michigan moving forward.

The agreement also states that the owner, Roman Choumeliski of Florida, must dissolve his business, 24/7 AD Cleaning, LLC, which was doing business as American Air Mavericks.
MOUNT PLEASANT, MI -- Police are investigating a reported shooting at an apartment complex near Central Michigan University.

No injuries or property damage stemming from the incident had been reported as of Tuesday afternoon, Dec. 5, according to Isabella County Central Dispatch.
Every vehicle in the state governments fleet must be zero-emissions by 2040 after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued an executive order establishing the goal.

The order defines zero-emissions as any vehicles that use a propulsion technology that does not produce greenhouse-gas emissions, which leaves the door open to options beyond electric vehicles.

Whitmer has previously touted the siting of a gigafactory for a hydrogen fuel company in Michigan, and the state recently won federal funding for hydrogen-related development.

More: $1 billion for hydrogen hub coming to Michigan

Light-duty vehicles will have a target date of 2033 for the transition and 2040 for medium and heavy-duty vehicles.

Whitmers office said the state has roughly 8,750 vehicles in its fleets, but only a few light-duty vehicles are currently zero-emissions. The order also calls for building out charging infrastructure at state government facilities.

In a statement, Whitmer said the state is leading by example with the order.

Getting this done will help drive demand of Michigan-made electric vehicles, lower gas and maintenance costs for the state since (zero-emissions vehicles) cost far less to fuel and maintain and reduce air and noise pollution in our communities, Whitmer said.

The order offers an off-ramp for state agencies to request exemptions to the requirements, while prioritizing alternate carbon-reduction strategies like plug-in hybrids and biodiesel.

The states largest automotive union, the United Auto Workers, praised the decision.

We encourage the state to purchase union-made EVs for all state vehicles, giving Americas autoworkers their fair share of this historic moment for the American auto industry, UAW president Shawn Fain said in a statement. On behalf of our 400,000 active members and 600,000 retirees, I want to thank and commend Gov. Whitmer on notching another win for the working class.

Whitmers office cast the move as another measure in a suite of policy changes to confront climate change, including recently passed legislation that requires Michigan utilities to generate all electricity from carbon-free or low-carbon energy sources by 2040.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Former Detroit Tigers shortstop Jose Iglesias has signed a minor-league deal with the New York Mets, the team announced Tuesday.

Iglesias, who turns 34 in January, will be trying to break back into the big-leagues after a year spent in the minor leagues or without a job.

Iglesias played for the Tigers from 2013-2018. He has played for the Cincinnati Reds, Baltimore Orioles, Los Angeles Angels, Boston Red Sox and Colorado Rockies since leaving the Tigers. He was in spring training with the Miami Marlins in 2023 but didnt make the team. He ultimately played for the San Diego Padres Triple-A affiliate.

He was the nearly everyday shortstop for the Rockies in 2022, hitting .292 with a .708 OPS (91 OPS+).

The Tigers acquired Iglesias at the deadline in 2013 as part of a three-way trade. The Tigers sent Avisail Garcia to the Chicago White Sox and Brayan Villarreal to the Boston Red Sox. The White Sox sent Jake Peavy to the Red Sox in exchange for a handful of prospects.

Iglesias will compete for a bench spot on the Mets with several other candidates, including former Tiger Zack Short.

Short was claimed off waivers by the Mets in November.
Renowned Ghanaian music producer, Hammer of The Last Two, has advised fellow musicians to stop flaunting 'fake' wealth and let the world know their struggles.

He said the move will help them garner more support and investment in the creative industry.

Speaking on Joy FM, Hammer emphasized the need for artists to be real about the challenges they face and speak about the real issues confronting the music industry.

"We are not displaying suffering to them. We buy cars with different money. We are flexing. Most people in the creative [music] industry are not buying cars with the music money," Hammer stated during the interview.

He further explained that the misconception about wealth in the industry has negative consequences, urging artistes to let the world know about their financial struggles for government and investors to support.

"If you are doing Forex Trading at home and you buy an X Class, and you are pulling up in it and a tax man is looking at you, what are you talking about?

We have to speak the truth to power. Let's show them we are suffering. But we can't go around shopping at expensive places, driving the biggest cars and expect them to feel for us," he added.

Hammer also highlighted the importance of proving to the government that artists' works contribute to the country's tourism industry.

He said, "If you want to show that your works are promoting the tourism industry, show it. Prove that you are an up-and-coming artist and you can't afford these things."
The SUV race continues to intensify as November threw up interesting results from sales. While Maruti has gained in terms of share, Tata Motors' SUV lineup continues to dominate the sales chart occupying top two positions for the first time. It is also the first time that Mahindra's iconic Scorpio SUV, sold in Scorpio-N and Scorpio Classic avatars, has managed to overtake one of the most popular compact SUV Hyundai Creta to end November among the top five SUVs sold in the country. Among new entrants in the list, Hyundai's Punch-rival Exter SUV has managed to make the cut for the first time. Here is a quick look at the list of top 10 SUVs sold in India in November.

Tata Punch has also overtaken Maruti Suzuki Brezza as the second best-seller in the SUV segment last month while Hyundai Exter made it to the list for

Tata Nexon:

After its launch in a new avatar in September, the new Nexon SUV continues to remain the most popular model in the segment. In November, the Nexon 2023 registered 14,916 units, which is around 6 per cent less than what Tata Motors could sell during the same month last year. Its sale has also gone down compared to the highs of the festive months when Tata Motors sold more than 31,000 units of the Nexon facelift SUV in September and October combined.

Tata Punch:

Punch, Tata's smallest SUV, has jumped one place to second by beating Maruti Suzuki Brezza in November. Tata Motors sold 14,383 units of the small SUV, up by about 19 per cent compared to November last year when the carmaker sold 12,131 units. However, the sale has decreased marginally compared to October this year when TataPunch found 15,217 takers. Tata Motors is expected to launch the EV version of the SUV soon, which will further bolster its sales performance in coming days.

Also check these Cars Find more Cars Mahindra Scorpio-N 2184 cc Multiple Both  13.26 - 24.54 Lakhs Compare View Offers Mahindra Thar 2184 cc Multiple Both  10.98 - 16.94 Lakhs Compare View Offers Hyundai Creta 1497.0 cc Multiple Both  10.87 - 19.20 Lakhs Compare View Offers UPCOMING Mahindra XUV500 2024 2179 cc Diesel Manual  12 Lakhs View Details Mahindra XUV700 2184.0 cc Multiple Both  14.03 - 26.57 Lakhs Compare View Offers Kia Seltos 1497 cc Multiple Both  10.90 - 20.30 Lakhs Compare View Offers

Maruti Brezza:

Maruti Suzuki, which currently boasts as India's top SUV maker, saw its most popular model in the segment drop one place to number three. With 13,393 units sold, the Brezza managed to gain around 18 per cent compared to the same month previous year. During the festive month of October, Maruti Brezza managed to find 16,050 homes. The sale of the SUV has also gone down compared to September when Maruti sold 15,001 units.

Mahindra Scorpio:

With nearly a 90 per cent jump in sales compared to November last year, the biggest gainer in the SUV segment last month was Mahindra Scorpio. Sold in Scorpio-N and Scorpio Classic versions, the SUV found 12,185 buyers. In November last year, Mahindra sold only 6,455 units of the SUV. In October this year, Mahindra had delivered 13,578 units. Since the launch of the Scorpio-N SUV, this is the first month when it has overtaken popular compact models like Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.

Hyundai Creta:

Despite losing out to Mahindra Scorpio, Hyundai Creta remains the best-selling compact SUV in India. In November, Hyundai sold 11,814 units, down by more than 10 per cent from 13,321 units during the same month in the previous year. Its sale has also reduced compared to the 13,077 units sold during the festive month. Hyundai is all set to drive in the Creta in a new avatar in January next year and is expected to see a boost in sales through the 2024 version.

Kia Seltos:

Since its launch in July this year, Kia Seltos continued to grow in terms of sales with 11,264 units sold, up by more than 25 per cent compared to November last year. Some of the variants of the SUV, which is also offered with ADAS technology, recently saw prices reduced to attract more buyers. In October, Kia sold 12,362 units of Seltos across India, clocking one of its best months in terms of sales since its launch. It remains to be seen if it continues to grow even after its arch rival Hyundai Creta is launched in a new avatar next month.

Hyundai Venue:

Hyundai continues to lag behind its rivals like Tata Nexon and Maruti Suzuki Brezza. In November, the carmaker sold 11,180 units of the SUV. It is a marginal gain of about four per cent compared to the same month last year. The sale of Venue remains largely steady compared to October this year when Hyundai delivered 11,581 units.

Maruti Fronx:

Fronx has been one of the key reasons why Maruti Suzuki has managed to take lion's share in India's SUV segment. The Fronx, which is based on Maruti's premium hatchback Baleno, saw 9,867 units sold last month. It sales has gone down from the highs of the festive season when Maruti registered 11,357 units of the SUV in October.

Mahindra Bolero:

Mahindra Bolero SUV has managed to overtake Maruti Suzuki's flagship Grand Vitara in terms of sales last month. One of the oldest names in Mahindra stable, the Bolero and Bolero Neo combination found 9,333 homes across India last month with a growth of more than 15 per cent compared to November 2022. In October this year, the carmaker sold 9,647 units of the SUV. Mahindra could launch a facelift version of the SUV next year.

Hyundai Exter:

Entering the list for the first time, Hyundai's answer to the likes of Tata Punch and Maruti Suzuki Fronx completes the list of top 10 SUVs in November. Launched earlier this year, the Exter has climbed up on sales ladder rather quickly, clocking 8,325 units last month. It promises to be one of the most popular models in the SUV segment with the carmaker claiming Exter has garnered over one lakh bookings so far since its launch.

First Published Date:
Media personality, Bridget Otoo has issued an apology to the Catholic priests in Ghana after making allegations against them.

Bridget had claimed that Catholic priests should be permitted to marry to address the issue of immoral behaviour within the church.

Bridget Otoo alleged that some Catholic priests engage in immoral activities, including sodomizing young boys, raping women, and fathering multiple children, all of which the church is allegedly aware of but ignored.

She urged the Catholic Church to allow priests to marry as a solution to these issues.

"Can we Catholics also copy others and let our priests marry instead of the immoral lives they are living? Having children, some raping women and sodomizing innocent boys at the altar? Thats not Christlike," Bridget Otoo had stated.

The comments drew criticism from various quarters, prompting Bridget Otoo to apologise on her social media page.

In her apology, she expressed regret for her claims, emphasising that she intended to be kind.

However, she maintained her concern about the alleged immoral activities within the church.

Im sorry for suggesting that Catholic priests be allowed to marry. I was trying to be kind. If they wont change their pedophilic, sodomizing young boys at the altar, raping women and having multiple children all over with the church covering it, I suggest we castrate them, she wrote on X.

Originating at castrate them
Miss Lady Nana Yaa Nsarko, the newly crowned Miss Malaika Ghana 2023 Queen at the just ended grand finale has been appointed ambassador for the 2023/2024 HIV/AIDs Campaign by the Ghana AIDs Commission.

As has been the modus operandi of the most esteemed beauty pageant in Ghana, Miss Malaika Ghana, the crowned queen is tasked to pick a project which addresses social issues in society and seeks to create awareness and more during her reign.

Miss Lady Nsarko, whose project was centered on awakening the HIV/AIDs campaign, made a passionate appeal to the need to use condoms by males and females. She also touched on the need to get tested and called on society to stop stigmatizing people living with the virus.

Days after her crowning, Miss Lady Nsarko was appointed by the Ghana Aids Commission as the 2023/2024 campaign ambassador. The winner, together with her runners-up, Miss Fareeda Habib and Enyam Dzandu, joined the Ghana Aids Commission at the just ended global celebration of World AIDs Day to mark the celebration locally.

The Miss Malaika 2023 Queen was, at the event, outdoored as the campaign ambassador with major responsibilities. The commission mentioned that the campaign this year will be centering around the various communities hence the theme for this year being  "Let Communities Lead."

Speaking at the event, the Director General of the Ghana AIDs Commission, Dr. Kyeremah Atuahene expressed the commission's excitement about the queen's chosen project and pledged to support her as she embarks on her project throughout and after her reign.

The newly crowned Queen, Miss Lady Nsarko expressed her gratitude by committing to championing the campaign to deepen the awareness of HIV/AIDs, prompt self-testing, reduce the stigma surrounding it and most importantly, eradicate HIV/AIDs by 2030.

She was joined by her runners-ups who have, on their part, pledged to support her during her project.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a press release providing details of why Michael Nii Yarboi Annan was disqualified from contesting the partys parliamentary primary in the Odododiodio Constituency.

In the release signed by General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, it said the decision was taken by the Functional Executive Committee (FEC) of the party because the disqualified aspirant did not meet the number of years required for a person defecting from another party to contest a position in the NDC.

Despite Mr. Annans claim of joining the NDC in 2019, evidence was adduced to show that he was still publicly associating with the NPP after 2019. Examples are:

A poster with the face of Mr. Annan, advertising a political discussion on a program known as "The Voice" (which is an NPP program) to take place on July 27, 2020, in which he was described as a security analyst and member of the NPP, and spoke on behalf of the NPP.

Mr. Annan did not dispute this when questioned. As a matter of fact, Mr. Annan actually went for the programme and spoke as a representative of the NPP.

Considering the overwhelming evidence presented, the Special Committee is unable to endorse Mr. Michael Nii Yarboi Annan's qualification to contest the parliamentary primaries in the Odododiodio constituency based on article 41(8)(b) of the NDC Constitution, parts of the NDC release said.

Meanwhile, the NDC has severed notice that any member who disregards or violates the laid down grievance resolution procedures of the party will be severely dealt with in accordance with law.

The leadership of the party stressed that it will not countenance any acts of indiscipline, vandalism, and anti-party behavior, that have the potential to bring the name of the party into disrepute.

Read the full release of the NDC below:

PRESS STATEMENT

For Immediate Release

4th December, 2023

DISQUALIFICATION OF MICHAEL NII YARBOI ANNAN FROM CONTESTING THE NDCS PARLIAMENTARY PRIMARY IN THE ODODODIODIO CONSTITUENCY

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has noted with dismay, some misguided reactions to the decision by the Functional Executive Committee (FEC) of the party, to disqualify one Michael Nii Yarboi Annan, from contesting the partys parliamentary primary in the Odododiodio Constituency.

These misguided reactions are being fueled by certain false narratives and misconceptions about the basis of the decision of the party to disqualify the said aspirant.

The leadership of the NDC wishes to put on public record, that the decision to disqualify the said aspirant was taken by FEC, acting on the findings and recommendations of the Special Committee that was set up to investigate the matter. This followed consultations with the Political Committee of the party.

In the spirit of transparency, probity and accountability, the party hereby publishes the full report of the Special Committee, chaired by Rt. Hon. Edward Doe Adjaho, which conducted investigations into the eligibility of Michael Nii Yarboi Annan and the violence that occurred during the vetting of Parliamentary Aspirants for the Odododiodio Constituency on October 13, 2023.

On the issue of the eligibility of Michael Nii Yarboi Annan, the committee made a number of key findings which are worth highlighting:

1. The Committee discovered that Michael Nii Yarboi Annan was formerly a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) who contested and lost the NPP parliamentary primary in the Odododiodio Constituency in September 2019.

2. During interactions with the constituency executives, a few of them expressed dissatisfaction with an ex-NPP member like Mr. Annan being allowed to contest in the NDC parliamentary primary, when he doesnt meet the mandatory four-year membership requirement.

3. The Committee found that, Mr. Annan had financially supported the election campaign of most of the constituency executives during the 2022 constituency elections, including some of the executives who are now opposed to him.

4. The Committee also found that, Mr. Annan had financially supported a number of NDC party activities in the Odododiodio constituency with the endorsement of the Member of Parliament and members of the Constituency Executive Committee.

5. During Committee discussions, it was revealed that a secret oral agreement had been arrived at, between the Member of Parliament for Odododiodio, the Constituency Chairman and the Constituency Deputy Secretary to make Mr. Annan a member of the party in the Constituency. The three (the MP, the Chairman, and the then Deputy Secretary) claimed, that the secret oral agreement was a strategy. Interestingly the then Constituency Secretary, who is now an parliamentary aspirant by name Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie, was excluded from this meeting. No evidence could be found to support the claim that the leadership of the party at the national level had been properly informed about this secret agreement.

6. The Committee found that, the "NDC Laryea House Branch" register, contains the name of Mr. Michael Nii Yarboi Annan as having been registered as a member of the NDC in 2019. A careful examination of the register showed no signs of cancellation or substitution. Neither is there any evidence that shows that the register has been tampered with.

7. The Committee found that Mr. Annan has in his possession one of the old NDC membership cards (the foldable card with membership number H200630068) showing payment of dues starting from January 2017 to 2019, even though Mr. Annan is supposed to have been registered in the database of the NDC in 2019.

8. The foldable card has Mr. Annans EC voter ID number as 4449012952 but a careful scrutiny revealed that the said voter ID number, was acquired in July 2020. The Committee found this to be a mystery. The committee was at a lost as to how a 2019 NDC membership card could bear an EC Voter ID card number of 2020? When questioned about this, Mr. Annan said that, the ID anomalies were not due to his actions, as the NDC registration card was presented to him by the Constituency Chairman.

9. The Committee also found, that Mr. Annan has one of the new NDC membership cards, but that card has no slot for date of issuance. Effectively, there is nothing on the face of the card to indicate when it was issued.

10. Further findings revealed that Mr. Annan held the position of Branch Chairman in Laryea's House Branch effective 2022, even though he had not met the four-year requirement to be a branch executive in accordance with the Constitution and the branch reorganization guidelines of the party.

11. Despite Mr. Annans claim of joining the NDC in 2019, evidence was adduced to show that he was still publicly associating with the NPP after 2019. Examples are:

a. a poster with the face of Mr. Annan, advertising a political discussion on a program known as "The Voice" (which is an NPP program) to take place on July 27, 2020, in which he was described as a security analyst and member of the NPP, and spoke on behalf of the NPP.

Mr. Annan did not dispute this when questioned. As a matter of fact, Mr. Annan actually went for the programme and spoke as a representative of the NPP.

b. a Facebook post dated February 12, 2021, in which Mr. Annan indicated that he had officially informed some opinion leaders and members of his campaign team of his decision to defect from the NPP to the NDC.

In the light of the foregoing facts, the committee among other things, recommended as follows;

Considering the overwhelming evidence presented, the Special Committee is unable to endorse Mr. Michael Nii Yarboi Annan's qualification to contest the parliamentary primaries in the Odododiodio constituency based on article 41(8)(b) of the NDC Constitution, which provides that, a member must be an active member of the party at the constituency level for the four years immediately preceding the date of filing nominations.

The Functional Executive Committee upheld and adopted the well-grounded recommendations of the Adjaho Committee, which clearly established that Mr. Michael Nii Yarboi Annan is not qualified to contest in the NDCs parliamentary primaries in the Odododiodio Constituency.

Indisputable evidence of the key findings made by the Adjaho committee are contained in the attached report.

It is important to emphasize, that throughout the conduct of the partys parliamentary primaries from last year till date, any aspirant who has been found to be in breach of the mandatory 4-year membership requirement, has been disqualified by the party. It cannot be different for Michael Nii Yarboi Annan.

The NDC is a party that is governed by established rules and principles of equity, fairness and justice. No member of the party is bigger than or above the party.

The Constitution of the party has clearly provided internal procedures and mechanisms for addressing intra-party grievances. Any member of the party who is aggrieved by a decision of the party is hereby entreated to seek redress, in strict adherence to the dictates of the Constitution of the party.

Notice is hereby served, that any member who disregards or violates the laid down grievance resolution procedures of the party will be severely dealt with in accordance with law. The leadership of the party will not countenance any acts of indiscipline, vandalism and anti-party behavior, that has the potential to bring the name of the party into disrepute.

SIGNED.

HON. FIFI FIAVI KWETEY

GENERAL SECRETARY
Professor Frimpong Boateng's report on the nation's illegal mining, which has contaminated the major rivers in Ghana, including the Pra, and causing birth deformities, exposed many NPP politicians involved in the illegal activities, yet, nobody was prosecuted. Ghanaians were surprised when the Attorney General, Godfred Dame, came out and denounced the professors report, so why would the imprisonment of the Chinese woman, Aisha Huang, convince me that justice is not corrupt?

The Akufo Addo administration is lying to itself if it believes imprisoning Aisha Huang, would persuade Ghanaians that he is battling corruption and illicit mining in the nation. The judge, Justice Lydia Osei Marfo, claimed that the Galamsey queen had taken advantage of Ghana's hospitality. Aisha's recent entry into Ghana to start illicit mining was done by Ghanaians. She has been successful because there are powerful individuals who take money from here, mostly chiefs and politicians.

I have made numerous attempts to refrain from stating this, but I must remind the Akufo Addo administration that, as Ken Agyapong has proven, not one person in the NPP is intelligent. The president sat on the report for a very long time after Prof. Frimpong Boateng presented it to him because he knew that the report implicated other NPP politicians, including himself, until Kevin Taylor, the host of "Loud Silence TV," showed up to expose the president.

Under Akufo Addo, corruption in the NPP administration has grown by more than 500%, and despite daily illicit mining activity in the nation, nothing is being done to stop it. Does the justice system believe that locking this woman up proves they are doing a good job? What became of Eugene Arhin and Cecilia Dapaah, and all the other NPP politicians involved in serious corruption scandals? After committing such financial crimes, they are all living in peace and enjoying their crimes with impunity.

Just as unlawful mining has hurt people and the court wants to convince Ghanaians that they are now ready to fight it, they must also begin to fight corruption, since it has been the primary factor driving many in the nation into poverty. If justice is to be honored, corrupt politicians should also be imprisoned. Since Akufo Addo is aware of his corruption, he is always plotting actions that he hopes would persuade Ghanaians of his sincerity, even though he will never be until he dies.

It sounds too good to have the military show up and tell Ghanaians that they are safe and need not be afraid, but rather that they need their help to fight terrorism. I'm not sure when Ghana started to attract terrorists. Akufo Addo is preparing the army for a potential counter-coup attack, which he thinks may occur during the festive season of December because he is unable to sleep due to his awareness of his misdeeds and the harm he has caused to the country with his family.

There will always come a moment when the downtrodden can take no more, and no amount of strength or force can overcome them, for this reason, Ghanaians cant be intimidated by either the terror army the president has created or the corrupt judges he has appointed. Akufo Addo should exercise caution if he is unable to stop his widespread corruption and the oppression of the people since the king's enemy originates from his own family.
Member of Parliament for Madina Constituency in the Greater Accra Region, Mr Francis-Xavier Sosu, has expressed dismay over President Akufo-Addo's decision to withhold assent to the Criminal Offences Amendment Bill 2023 and the Ghana Armed Forces Amendment Bill 2023.

The Criminal Offences Amendment Bill aims to criminalise attacks on individuals accused of witchcraft, while the Ghana Armed Forces Amendment Bill seeks to remove the death penalty from the laws of the Ghana Armed Forces due to constitutional considerations.

President Akufo-Addo cited constitutional concerns for his decision in a letter to Parliament.

Addressing the media, Mr Sosu, the advocate for these bills, characterised the president's action as a deliberate attempt to thwart laws duly passed by Parliament.

''The President has refused to asent to two very very imporatnt bills which in my opinion has put Ghana on the highest pedestal when it comes to human rights promotion and human rights advancement'' he said.

This move has sparked debates over the implications and the president's constitutional role in the legislative process.

In a letter dated November 28, addressed to the Speaker of Parliament, the president explained that while he supports the contents of these bills, they need to be enacted in line with constitutional and legislative processes.

The bills were introduced to parliament a private members bills.

The president emphasised that any legislation passed by the House must be in complete alignment with the Constitution.

He expressed his intention to have these bills reintroduced in parliament on his behalf in due course.

Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin acknowledged the president's letter, indicating that the president raised concerns about constitutional matters relating to the passage of the Criminal Offences Amendment No. 2 Bill 2023.

The Speaker urged members to exercise restraint and patience, awaiting further communication from the president.

In a separate letter, the president urged the house to reconsider various portions of the Wildlife Resources Management Bill, 2023, to ensure its alignment with constitutional and legislative processes.

Classfmonline
Mr Ndede Siah, the Western Regional Chairperson of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), says a date before December 20 will be fixed for the parliamentary elections for three orphan constituencies that could not take part in the just-ended exercise in the region.

The three constituencies, Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira, Ellembelle and Jomoro had their elections put on hold for various outstanding issues that needed to be resolved.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview, Mr Siah said the problem at Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira had to do with the choice of venue for the elections.

The electorates in the Gwira area of the Nzema East Municipality raised a legitimate concern that Axim had always been the voting centre to the detriment of those in the Gwira area in terms of mobility, so the candidates have told the party hierarchy to reconsider venue for the voting, he said.

For Jomoro and Ellembelle, he said there were some internal misunderstandings between the aspirants and their supporters which was a national security concern.

He said the Regional Executives of the NPP was taking steps to meet all the aspirants in the three constituencies to amicably resolve all issues and decide a new date and venue for the primaries.

Meanwhile five candidates were elected in the last Saturday primaries conducted in the orphan constituencies in the Western Region.

In the Amenfi Central constituency Dr Albert Wiredu Arkoh was elected as the parliamentary candidate, while in Amenfi East Mr Ernest Frimpong was elected with Mrs Getrude Effah Mona getting the Wassa East constituency.

In the Prestea Huni Valley constituency, Mrs Barbara Oteng Gyasi was elected with Mr Ignatius Kwasi Afrifa capturing the Amenfi West Constituency.

GNA
Ghanaian international model Hamamat Beauty bagged two prestigious awards at the 2023 Afro Hair Culture and Beauty Festival held in Abuja, Nigeria.

Hamamat, who stole the spotlight with her thrilling and amazing looks, emerged victorious, winning the Best Beauty Influencer and the Special Industry Recognition Awards, toppling an array of competitors from other African countries.

The event, known for its discerning panel of judges and high standards, provided the perfect platform for African beauty brands to showcase not only their outer radiance but also their unique charm and poise.

The competition was fierce, with participants from all corners of Africa's beauty industry vying for the coveted title, which showcased not only a commitment to beauty but also a deep understanding of the artistry that defines the modern era of glamour.

As part of the 20 best beauty brands in Africa, Hamamat Beauty now joins the ranks of influential figures in the beauty industry, solidifying their status as a trendsetter and inspiration for aspiring beauty enthusiasts.

This triumph serves as a testament to Hamamat's dedication, hard work, and passion for the world of beauty, encapsulating the essence of what it means to be a true icon in the industry.

In the wake of this remarkable achievement, Hamamat expressed gratitude for the support received from family, friends, and mentors who have been instrumental in shaping her journey.

She added that the triumph does not only belong to her but also resonates with those who have been part of her inspiring story.

"As the spotlight shines brighter, the victory at the African Beauty Summit is not just a win for an individual but a celebration of beauty in all its diverse forms," she said.

Hamamat has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the beauty landscape in the shea butter industry by showing how her business not only supports local women in her village but also builds a sustainable community for African children.
Community Aid for Rural Development (CARD Ghana) has installed a sanitary 'pad bank' at the Wa Methodist School for the Blind to promote menstrual health among students.

The pad bank facility is stocked with reusable sanitary pads to help female students who experience difficulties in acquiring sanitary pads to have access to them during menstruation.

The facility was launched as part of an event organized by CARD Ghana to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities at the Wa Methodist School for the Blind over the weekend.

The event formed part of the She Leads program being implemented in the Upper West Region by CARD Ghana with support from Plan International Ghana.

Miss Ernestina Biney, the She Leads Project Coordinator with CARD Ghana, said the installation of the pad bank was in fulfilment of a request made the female students of the school to CARD Ghana last year.

She indicated that the provision of the pad bank would help to eliminate period poverty, a phenomenon where menstruating girls are unable to access menstrual products due to financial constraints.

"Sanitary pad banks help alleviate period poverty by providing free and affordable pads to those in need, ensuring that no one has to compromise their health or wellbeing due to the inability to afford menstrual products.

"When people have access to menstrual products, they can participate fully in daily activities, pursue education and engage in economic opportunities, leading to empowerment and improved quality of life," Miss Biney said.

She emphasized that access to menstrual products through the pad bank initiative was essential for maintaining good health and preventing infections.

Miss Biney encouraged the school authorities to ensure proper usage and maintenance of the facility to benefit the students and also ensure that the pad bank remains solvent.

The Senior Housemistress of the school, Madam Florence Gamuo, after unveiling the facility, thanked CARD Ghana for the initiative.

She expressed optimism that the pad bank would contribute to improving personal and menstrual hygiene among the female students in the school.

She promised that the facility would be put to judicious use and enhanced maintenance culture to ensure it serves its intended purpose.

The students noted that the pad bank came in timely to help improve their access to sanitary pads in the phase of increasing cost of sanitary pads in the market.

"We are so grateful, we are very happy and we really appreciate what CARD Ghana has done for us because we know we are going to benefit a lot from it. Now, the price of the sanitary pad is so costly that some of us, we cannot even afford it. Sometimes, when we're in our menstrual period, we always find it difficult to handle ourselves, even to get active access to classes. So, I am sure that with what they have done for us, it will help us a lot and even in our classes, a student, Miss Elizabeth Akuzoba said.
Girls of the Wa Methodist School for the Blind have called on stakeholders to ensure a supportive social system for persons with disabilities (PWDs) to foster an inclusive and equitable society for all.

They said there was an alarming lack of societal support for PWDs which needed to be address to foster an equitable for enhanced development.

This was contained in a communique read by Miss Memuna Ahmed, a virtually-impaired student of the school, at an event organized by Community Aid for Rural Development (CARD Ghana) to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) at the Wa Methodist School for the Blind over the weekend.

According to the girls, PWDs face a myriad of challenges including limited access to education, employment, healthcare and social opportunities owing the absence of adequate societal support.

They called for an inclusive education system that caters to the diverse needs of all students and ensures that no one is left behind due to disability.

"It is imperative that public spaces, transportation and buildings be made universally accessible, allowing persons with disabilities to navigate the world with dignity and independence.

"We urge the implementation and enforcement of laws that safeguard the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities, holding accountable those who perpetuate discrimination or neglect," they urged.

The girls also called for inclusive healthcare systems and employment opportunities which together would ensure a society that embraces diversity and values every member regardless of their ability or disability.

The commemoration of the IDPD formed part of the strategic campaigns for the empowerment of girls and young women (GYWs) under the She Leads program being implemented by CARD Ghana in the Upper West Region with support from Plan International Ghana.

Miss Ernestina Biney, the She Leads Project Coordinator with CARD Ghana, said the campaign aimed at supporting girls and women-led organizations with funds and appropriate skills to operate independently.

"Lobbying and building the capacity of informal decision makers (traditional and religious leaders), parents and care givers and supporting their initiatives towards transforming social norms that violate the rights of GYW.

"Engaging media advocacy and influence to achieve wider reach, impact and to reinforce the transformed social norms and community accountability towards GYW rights," she added as some of the strategies for achieving the project goals.

Miss Biney mentioned a host of activities that have been carried out by CARD Ghana since 2021 towards achieving the goal of increased sustained influence of GYWs on gender norms and decision-making.

In a speech read on her behalf, Madam Anna Nabere, the She Leads Project Manager for Plan International Ghana, said inclusion was not just a goal but a shared responsibility that binds the society together.

"By recognizing and valuing the unique contributions of Persons with Disabilities, we pave the way for a more just, equitable, and compassionate world," she added.

The theme for the 2023 IDPD was "United in Action to Rescue and Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals for, with and by Persons with Disabilities."
Ethiopian authorities should unconditionally release Belay Manaye, chief editor of Ethio News, who has been detained without explanation for three weeks, the Committee to Protect Journalists said on Monday.

On November 13, a group of uniformed police officers and other security personnel in civilian clothes arrested Belay in the capital, Addis Ababa, near the offices of Ethio News, a private YouTube-based news outlet, Belays wife Belaynesh Nigatu and Ethio News co-founder Belete Kassa told CPJ.

The officers took Belay to the Federal Police Crime Investigation Center, where he remains in detention, without informing him of the reason for his arrest or taking him to court, they said.

Belay Manaye has spent three weeks behind bars without any explanation from Ethiopian authorities. This sends a grave message to other Ethiopian journaliststhat they can be deprived of their liberty at any time, said CPJs sub-Saharan African Representative, Muthoki Mumo. Authorities should unconditionally release Belay Manaye and stop arbitrarily detaining members of the press.

Belaynesh, who visited her husband in jail, told CPJ that the journalist feared he was being held under legal provisions introduced when a state of emergency was declared on August 4 in response to conflict in the northern Amhara state.

The emergency declaration gives the government additional powers to ban public meetings, declare a curfew, shut down mass media, and detain people suspected of crimes against the state in order to maintain public peace and order in response to the armed illegal activities of the Amhara National Regional Government.

The Fano militia in Amhara have been fighting federal forces since April, after the federal government announced a controversial decision to integrate regional militia into the federal army. The Fano were previously allied with the federal government in a civil war in northern Ethiopia that ended with a peace deal in November 2022.

The state of emergency law, reviewed by CPJ, gives security personnel wide powers of arrest and suspends the due process of law, including the right to appear before a court and receive legal counsel. Ordinarily, Article 19 of Ethiopias constitution requires police to produce detained persons in court within 48 hours.

Belay and Ethio News co-founder Belete co-host two daily news programs on the channel and had extensively covered the conflict in the Amhara state.

In the weeks following the declaration of the state of emergency, CPJ documented the arrest of at least seven other journalists who had covered the Amhara conflict.

This is not Belays first detention. In July 2020, authorities arrested Belay, two of his colleagues, and one ex-colleague from the Amhara Satellite Radio And Television (ASRAT) on allegations of inciting violence. After 46 days, Belay was released on bail without charge, according to his post on X, formerly Twitter, and the Addis Standard.

In an emailed statement, federal police spokesperson Jeylan Abdi said he could not comment on the detention of Belay and other journalists under the state of emergency and referred CPJ to the command post, which was established to oversee the state of emergency.

CPJs queries via email and messaging app to the federal ministry of justice, and government spokesperson Legesse Tulu, who is a member of the state of emergency command post and has issued statements on behalf of the body, did not receive any responses.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- In November of this year, Great Wall Motor ("GWM") sold 122,849 new vehicles, marking a remarkable 40.30% year-on-year surge, according to the company's latest monthly sales results. Its cumulative sales from January to November reached 1,118,202 units, reflecting a 12.94% year-on-year growth.

The standout performance extends to the electrified vehicle segment, with Great Wall Motor witnessing a surge in sales of new energy vehicles (NEVs) in November. Its NEV sales figure stood at 31,248 units, including new energy commercial vehicles, demonstrating a 142.93% year-on-year spike. This achievement marks the eighth consecutive month of year-on-year growth. Moreover, GWM's overseas sales in November reached 35,496 units, experiencing a significant 76.70% year-on-year surge and achieving over 30,000 units in monthly sales for the fourth consecutive month.

From January to November, cumulative sales of NEVs by GWM reached 232,145 units, rocketing by 92.28% from a year ago, while overseas year-to-date sales amounted to 282,542 units, showcasing a remarkable 84.81% year-on-year hike.

The high-end vehicle segment has witnessed an upward trajectory. In November alone, sales of vehicles priced above 150,000 yuan amounted to 31,595 units, surging by 83.93% from the previous year.

HAVAL Menglong PHEV; photo credit: GWM

Breaking down GWM's November sales by specific brands, the HAVAL brand sold 75,012 vehicles, marking a 39.11% year-on-year leap. Haval's NEV sales reached 10,036 units last month, witnessing a month-on-month growth of 9%. The Haval Menlong model achieved a sales volume of 6,025 units, showing a 19% increase compared to the previous month.

The WEY brand experienced a month-on-month increase of 27% in its November sales, which came in at 2,866 units.

ORA Ballet Cat; photo credit: GWM

Meanwhile, the ORA brand had 10,025 vehicles sold in November, reflecting a significant 47.95% year-on-year surge and maintaining monthly sales above ten thousand units for seven consecutive months.

The TANK brand, known for its robust off-road vehicles, recorded a sales volume of 18,577 units last month, marking an impressive 70.13% year-on-year leap. As of now, TANK's cumulative sales have surpassed 350,000 units.

Great Wall Pick-up also demonstrated strong performance in November, selling 16,291 units and achieving an 18.05% year-on-year rise. For the period from January to November, its cumulative sales reached 186,298 units, climbing 7.8% from a year earlier.
The African Union Commission (AUC) and the United Nations (UN) have held a high-level seminar to explore ways to enhance the coherence and synergy between the AU's Agenda 2063 and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The three-day seminar convened by the UN Economic Commission for Africa in collaboration with the AUC was held in Dar es Salam Tanzania, under the theme Towards an Integrated Africa: Achieving the SDGs and Agenda 2063 for the Continent that We Want.

The meeting aims to reflect on the achievements and challenges of the OAU/AU in the past six decades and to chart a way forward for the realization of the two development agendas.

The participants examined the linkages between Agenda 2063 and Agenda 2030: the two global frameworks that seek to promote sustainable development and social justice in Africa. They also discussed various issues, such as the role of regional integration, trade, industrialization, peace and security, governance, human rights, digital transformation and financing for development in advancing Africas development goals.

The seminar featured a video keynote speech by Mr Claver Gatete, the new Executive Director of the ECA, who reaffirmed his commitment to strengthen cooperation with the AU.

"The next phase of Africa's journey is for its economic transformation and development. That's what Agenda 2063 and Agenda 2030 are all about, and that's why we are all here today to discuss options to speed up the implementation of the two agendas, where progress so far has been uneven," he said.

Ms Monique Nsanzabaganwa, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, expressed in a video message her appreciation for the initiative and stressed the importance of advancing the continent towards a borderless and integrated Africa.

The Seminar brought together close to 55 UN Officials, AU experts, policymakers, academics, civil society representatives and youth representatives.

Said Adejumobi, Director of Strategic Planning, Oversight and Results Division at ECA, highlighted the long history of collaboration between the AU and the UN. He cited several examples of joint initiatives, such as the establishment of the African Development Bank, the regional economic communities, the Abuja Treaty for the African Economic Community, the African Peer Review Mechanism, the Lagos Plan of Action and the Final Act of Lagos, Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement.

The joint framework for the implementation of Agenda 2063 and Agenda 2030 was signed in 2018 by the Chairperson of the African Union and the Secretary General of the UN. The synergy and coherence in the implementation of the two agendas are now referred to as two agendas, one framework.
06.12.2023 LISTEN

Sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) is one of the most prevalent human rights violations in the world and undermines the health, dignity, security and autonomy of women and girls.

The current COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the incidence of SGBV as the lockdown measures heightened women and girls exposure to violence due to their spending more time at home with their abusers.

Even as public narratives about domestic and other types of violence have had increased resonance since the beginning of the pandemic, sexual violence remains taboo. The rise of sexual violence, is affecting women and girls across West Africa, not excluding Ghana.

In Ghana, rape, sexual assault and domestic violence are significantly underreported, and the police lack capacity to effectively investigate cases, which can take years to reach court.

According to World Health Organization (WHO) 1 out of 3 women have suffered physical and sexual violence by an intimate partner, could be family, friend, or a neighbor. In Ghana,16,000 cases of violence which is mostly against women was reported by the Ghana Police Service in 2020.(GBCGhanaonline,22a). Community leaders sometimes negotiate for rapists to pay compensation to victims families but they have come under fire in recent years for not taking the crime seriously enough.

Across West Africa, in the aftermath of the Ebola outbreak of 2013-2015, evidence was collected of a significant increase in sexual and gender-based violence. Yet the local authorities did not take action to put protocols in place to safeguard women and children.

In 2020, with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic there was also significant increase in the prevalence of SGBV as the lockdown measures heightened women and girls exposure to violence. Even as public narratives about domestic and other types of violence have had increased resonance since the beginning of the pandemic, sexual violence remains a taboo.

Rape does not happen in a vacuum. It is part of a continuum of gender-based violence allowed and meted out on women through harmful social and cultural norms embedded in society.

Stereotypical gender norms and practices endorsed by patriarchy remain at the root of it. When it comes to shifting societal standards towards humanizing women outside violence, most of society remains impervious to young girls. Various actors from legislators to law enforcement, religious bodies, the media and gatekeepers of culture have not taken their role as guarantors of the rights of women, girls and minorities seriously.

Women and girls have been at the forefront of action to highlight, address and end sexual violence and it is vital to centre their voices in planning, design and decision-making on services and solutions to address and eradicate it at the community, national and regional level.

State of the Northern Region

According to the Northern Regional Director of the Department of Gender Madam Bushiru Alhassan statistics from the office revealed that in 2018 over 48 percent of women and girls have been sexually abused while about 94 percent of children aged one to fourteen have experienced some gender-based violence.

The Ford Foundation West Africa Office, Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA) and the African Womens Development Fund (AWDF) have also been collaborating to combat the rate, advocate awareness a swell liaise with the various stakeholders and the traditional authorities to address and reduce sexual violence, and its deep-rooted drivers, across West Africa.

The initiative, KASA meaning speak in the Twi language aimed at Ending Sexual Violence in West Africa, is leveraging the growing focus on sexual violence in the region to boost feminist action and advocacy to reduce it.

The project is being implemented in Ghana, Nigeria and Senegal, with a focus on raising awareness of sexual violence as a violation of human rights and rallying support to combat it.

The initiative focuses on three key areas; prevention, accountability and support including post-rape care and comprehensive sexual violence services. This is to increase awareness and mobilize action to counter existing narratives, attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate sexual violence.

A key component of the initiative is to ensure that women and girls are at the forefront of highlighting, addressing and ending sexual violence through advocacy programmes.

To enhance the awareness creation in the Northern sector, Savannah Women Integrated Development Agency (SWIDA GH) supported to train 200 female students in the Northern Region to amplify messages against sexual violence, organize radio and social media campaigns against sexual violence and sensitize healthcare professionals and law enforcement agents to improve services for survivors of sexual violence and hold perpetrators of such crimes accountable

For close to two years, SWIDA-GH has been empowering its KASA female advocates with knowledge, skills and opportunities to engage schools, communities as well as traditional and religious leaders on sexual violence.

In line with the aim, SWIDA has been collaborating with the Centre for Equity and Equal Opportunities to organize the 2023 Ending Sexual Violence Conference across the length and breadth of the country in order the champion the course of complimenting the Sustainable Development Goal

In commemoration of the United Nations (UN) 16 days of Activism, the Ending Sexual Violence Conference aims to create awareness of the salient issues relating to sexual violence in the Region, as well as guide policymakers efforts to promote womens rights in Ghana.

It called for the need for more funding for interventions to tackle sexual violence and all forms of violence against women and girls to achieve the SDGs.

It also helps protect the welfare of women and girls in society to harness their potential, creativity and knowledge in contributing to national development.

The Conference years conference dubbed Leveraging on the Energy of Young Advocates to End Sexual Violence in Ghana brought together state institutions, traditional/religious leaders, heads of educational institutions and students.

Project Lead, KASA! Ending Sexual Violence in West Africa Khadijah Abdul-Samed said, SBVG continue to be rampant in the region which encouraged the organization to embark on the KASA programme where young girls were empowered to report all forms of violence made against them.

She noted that the programme was also to educate the young girls to deist from engaging in any activity that would violate their rights.

We would continue to intensify the advocacy until policy makers adhere to the plight of the young girls in the society and also provide alternative livelihoods for the economic wellbeing of the younger generation, she said.

With funding from the African Womens Development Fund (AWDF), SWIDA GH has been implementing the KASA Ending Sexual Violence Project aimed at raising awareness of sexual violence as a violation of human rights and rallying support to combat it, she said.

For close to two years, we have been working with 200 young female leaders, healthcare professionals and law enforcement agents in the Northern Region to achieve this, she noted.

SWIDA has been empowering its KASA! Advocates with knowledge, skills and opportunities to engage schools, communities as well as traditional and religious leaders on sexual violence, she added.

She called for more support to intensify the advocacy in the rural communities where such incidence occurs most.

What can be done to curb the SBVG?

A survey conducted by the Northern regional Team of the Business and Financial Times (B&FT) indicated poverty coupled with lack of job opportunities contribute to the SBVG in the Northern region especially in the rural areas where young females had to depend on either the family or others to survive.

This makes most become vulnerable and therefore had to succumb to violence which most often jeopardizes the future of young girls.

Empowering the young females with the requisite skills would help them become future entrepreneurs and would enable them to be independent and therefore not depend on anyone for support.

Access to job opportunities and hand skills businesses could make them not focus on thinking of using alternative means to make earns meet.

Report from the Savannah Women Integrated Development (SWIDA) office indicated that intensive advocacy on SBNG and women empowerment programmes initiated has curbed the rate of SBVG in the operational areas and therefore need more support to extend the advocacy and the empowerment programmes to other parts of the Country.

This, the Executive Director of SWIDA-GHANA Hajia Alima Sagito Saaed noted would help to achieve Sustainable Development Goal five (5) which calls for an end to all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere.

SDG 16 also calls for the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies, provision of access to justice for all and building of effective, accountability and inclusive institutions at all level which happens to be one of the core mandates of SWIDA, she said.

According to her, women and girls in society must have equal rights and opportunities and be able to live free of violence and discrimination as well as empowered which would be the only way they can have the peace of mind to work and contribute to the development of their communities and the country as a whole.

Northern Regional Acting Director of Department of Gender Mad Bushira Alhassan noted that despite the contribution of the private sector to curb the SBVG in the region, those in the rural areas continue to suffer and therefore for more support to extend the initiative of SWIDA, WEE-North, and other private sectors to extend their programmes to the rural areas.

We need to empower the young girls while parents also take the responsibility to take good care of their young girls to prevent them from becoming victims she noted.

A senior lecturer and Women Advocate at the Tamale Technical University Prof Adiza Sadiq also called for more empowerment programmes for the young girls in both schools and out of school to make them more independent.

We need to help protect the wellbeing of young females for a better future by educating them on their rights as well as providing them with means of livelihood in order not to make them become beggars on the street.
06.12.2023 LISTEN

A 34-year-old teacher and incumbent assemblyman, seeking re-election in the Teberebie electoral area in Prestea, Western Region, reportedly drowned in a river connecting Aklika on Monday, December 4, 2023.

Manasseh Addison Sackey, popularly known as Teacher Obour, a teacher at Teberebie M/A Junior High School, drowned in the river while on his way to campaign in nearby villages.

Citi News gathered that a former assembly member in the same constituency, who was Manassehs competitor, also suffered the same fate two weeks before the elections four years ago.

Narrating the story to Citi News, a journalist with Prestea FM, Nana Esi Brew Monney, said the deceased was travelling with about five others.

His campaign crew told him not to go, but he insisted it was just a stones throw, and he could return immediately. He was wearing Wellington boots with five others on board. Just in the middle of the river, the canoe capsized. Three others came back to report that Manasseh and the other gentleman had drowned. A search team was sent, only for them to find the lifeless body of Manasseh Addison Sackey. This happened around 2:00 pm, and the body was found around 6:00 pm.:

She added, The chief of the area has declined to speak to us, and we are yet to hear from the municipal chief executive too. Some assembly members came to get firsthand information.

The body has since been deposited at the Tarkwa municipal mortuary.

His wife and family are yet to be informed of his demise.

-citinewsroom
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Convention Peoples Party (CPP) has passed a vote of no confidence on all its national executives.

This decision was taken during a meeting in Kumasi, in the Ashanti Region, where the party asked all the national executives to resign or be removed from their respective positions.

The party members drawn from across the country largely expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of the partys leadership, hence the decision for the various executives to resign from their positions.

There was a significant level of misunderstanding during the meeting, as some party members petitioned for the national chairperson to be removed.

The National Executive Council has thus created a 13-member interim body comprising regional chairmen, a member of the council of elders, regional secretaries, regional organizers, and some representatives of women and youth.

Nana Yaa Jantuah, in an interview with the media, confirmed that, following the decision, she has resigned from her position as the General Secretary.

She indicated that she would later disclose her next line of action.

Im gone. I think Ive done what I have to do. Im no longer the General Secretary of the CPP. In due course, I will let everybody know where my political allegiance will be. For now, its time for family and friends. Im going to spend time with my family and friends. For now, Im going to concentrate on my business. They think some other people can do it better. In political parties, you do not hold on to things. I have done what I have to do these past three years and everybody has seen it. If my people say they do not want me, I cant force myself on them.

Meanwhile, despite the declaration by the National Executive Council that all the national executives have been removed from their positions, Nana Akosua Frimpomaa Sarpong-Kumankumah insists she is still the chairperson of the party.

According to her, the National Executive Council does not have the power to remove her from her position.

On his part, the 2020 presidential candidate for the CPP, Ivor Greenstreet, speaking to journalists after the developments, called for more to be done to ensure the party comes out stronger ahead of the upcoming 2024 general election.

-citinewsroom
The Ghana Institute of Horticulturists (GhIH) has been held with a call on government to formulate crop-specific policies for tomatoes and onions, aimed at boosting production and processing, thereby reducing importation and creating employment opportunities for the youth.

Government and other stakeholders in the horticulture industry formulating the policies and investing in the industry would help to address the food insecurity situation, particularly, for horticultural produce to meet the population demand and also for export.

According to the Horticulturists, the escalating food insecurity in the country is evident in the substantial importation of horticultural produce like tomatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, and sweet peppers into the country.

The GhIH made the call through a communique signed by the President, Prof. Abdul-Halim Abubakar and the Secretary Dr. Mohammed Mujitaba Dawuda after their 23rd Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference held in Kumasi of the Ashanti Region.

The conference dubbed 'Sustainable Crop Production and Food Security through Regenerative Horticulture' brought together stakeholders from the industry, academicians, researchers, and students among others to grace the occasion.

Emphasizing the necessity for regenerative and sustainable agricultural practices to ensure food security, "we call on the Government to collaborate with stakeholders and local authorities to curb the activities that contribute to environmental degradation, such as land destruction, deforestation, and pollution of our water bodies, they said.

"While acknowledging Government efforts like the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) and the One Village One Dam policies, the increase in financial support to the horticulture industry to take advantage of these policies for enhanced food security and job creation through demand-driven research and training of extension staff for farmers engaged in the cultivation of horticultural crops," they said.

The GhIH advocates for strengthened inspection and monitoring of agro-chemicals, especially pesticides, by institutions like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and the Ghana Standard Authority (GSA) to curb the incidence of food poisoning and safeguard the health of citizens.

They said, the neglect of urban green spaces, city road medians, and overall town and city landscapes critical for environmental health could hamper development and therefore called on both the Government and private entities to invest in the proper maintenance of the spaces for beautification and enhanced environmental health in the country.

"We appeal to Government, as a matter of urgency, consider having members of GhIH on the Advisory Boards of MoFA, EPA, FDA, GSA to support the ministry and agencies in matters related to the production, post-harvest handling, and safety standards for horticultural produce intended for both local and international markets."

The GhIH also expressed readiness to support the government's efforts in implementing the Planting for Food and Jobs phase 2 programme, especially in increasing horticultural crop production for items like tomatoes and onions.
Convenor of Center for Public Discourse Analysis (CPDA), Dr. Godwin Etse Sikanku

06.12.2023 LISTEN

The Center for Public Discourse Analysis (CPDA) is set to host its 2nd Vice Presidential Permutations Forum on December 15, 2023, at the North Dzorwulu campus of the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC-IJ).

Focused on the transformative potential of the Vice Presidency, the forum aims to shape governance structures and policies, addressing crucial issues in democratic reform.

In an interview with Dr. Godwin Etse Sikanku, the Convenor of CPDA, he emphasized the forum's goal of strengthening democracy in Ghana.

Dr. Sikanku highlighted the need to discuss the roles and impact of various institutions, with a specific focus on the vice presidency, aiming to fill a significant gap in its examination.

Dr. Sikanku outlined the primary goals of the forum, stating, "Our goal for this forum is to provide an opportunity for public conversation and discourse on the qualities of the vice president and the type of vice president needed."

He emphasized the importance of citizen contribution, expanding the space for public input and providing a scholarly platform for academics.

A panel of experts have been convened to contribute to the discussions.

Dr Sikanku emphasized that public discourse regarding the role, selection and nature of the Vice Presidency as a tool for political transformation and impact should occupy public discourse and deliberations and that one of the CPDA's goals was to provide such a platform.

He envisioned the forum as a recurring platform for ongoing assessments of the Vice Presidency's evolving role in democratic practice.
EcoMedia Development Initiative commends a dedicated group of Liberian volunteers who have taken proactive measures to clean the streets of Monrovia ahead of the festive season and the impending inauguration of the incoming Liberian Government.

The initiative, aptly named "Rescue Children for City Ordinance," boasts approximately 1,800 volunteers actively engaged in clearing debris, unclogging drainages, and eliminating piles of waste across various communities in Monrovia, said Charles S. Kermie, the groups vice leader.

Allen O. Gweh, the group's leader, emphasized the urgency of enhancing Monrovia's appearance, citing the current untidiness of the city. Recognizing this need, they mobilized volunteers to contribute towards revitalizing the capital of Africas oldest independent country.

Darlington Davis, the group's secretary, highlighted that the project, which commenced on November 20, is slated to span an initial three-month duration within Monrovia. Additionally, there are intentions to expand the initiative nationwide, aspiring to transform Liberia into a pristine and beautiful nation.

In an official statement released in Monrovia, EcoMedia lauded these cleanliness and sanitation endeavors as an invaluable service to the people of Liberia, warranting wholehearted support and recognition.

Danicius Kaihenneh Sengbeh, Executive Director and Founder of EcoMedia, expressed delight in partnering with the volunteers to promote environmental consciousness, cleanliness, and protection. He said EcoMedia, a newly founded initiative, endeavors to utilize the influence of media in fostering awareness, education, and engagement with the public, government bodies, corporations, and other institutions towards proactive climate change actions and environmental preservation.

Sengbeh, a seasoned media and communication expert, underlined the NGO's commitment to bridging the gap between media, environmental awareness, and practical climate action. He emphasized the objective of instigating a transformative shift in public attitudes by influencing policies, nurturing collaborations, and inspiring a collective dedication to safeguarding the natural world.

Meanwhile, EcoMedia is advocating for widespread support for the Liberian volunteers, acknowledging their patriotic and nationalistic efforts. The group's representatives are appealing for donations of brooms, shovels, boots, gloves, water, food, garbage bags, and disposal vehicles.

Hellen K. Foryah, overseeing operations along the Japanese Highway (formerly Somalia Drive), emphasized the group members' commitment by bringing their own tools; however, the available resources are insufficient. Foryah elaborated, "We only possess one wheelbarrow and two shovels, lacking gloves and boots, while more than 20 people are actively involved."

The group is dedicated to clearing drainages but faces challenges due to the absence of trucks and adequate equipment to dispose of the waste.

EcoMedia emphasized the commendable intentions of the Rescue Children for City Ordinance, but warned that without support from the government, communities and environmental organizations, these endeavors might not yield the desired impact.

For contribution to the initiative, reach out to: Allen O Gweh  0776476147; Charles S. Kermie - 0777967374; Darlington Davis -0777849015 &)
The Committee to Protect Journalists is alarmed and saddened by an attack on four journalists in northeastern Mali by unidentified gunmen last month, in which one journalist was killed, a second injured, and two were kidnapped.

On November 7, the attackers fired on the journalists vehicle between the eastern town of Ansongo and the city of Gao, where the four planned to attend a journalism training about identifying false information, their colleagues Radio Coton reporter Ibrahima Ag Ablil and Radio Naata director Ousmane Abdoulaye Toure told CPJ.

Abdoul Aziz Djibrilla, a presenter with Radio Naata, a community station in Labbezanga on the Mali-Niger border, was killed; Harouna Attino, a news presenter on the Ansongo-based community radio Alafiya, was wounded; and Assaleh Ag Joudou, director of Ansongo-based Radio Coton, and Moustapha Kone, a host at Radio Coton, were kidnapped, they said.

Later that day, the gunmen phoned Issoufa Toure, director of Ansongo-based radio station Aadar Koukia and a friend of the kidnapped Ag Joudou, demanding a ransom payment of 6 million West African CFA francs (US$9,975) in exchange for the two journalists, who they said had not been injured, according to news reports and the journalists Radio Coton colleague Ag Ablil.

Toure and Ag Ablil told CPJ that they did not believe the journalists had been targeted for their work, as similar attacks have taken place in recent months on the Ansongo-Gao road.

Mali has been battling Islamist militants for over a decade. Violence has worsened since the West African nations military government ordered United Nations peacekeepers to leave in June.

Journalists in Mali and across the Sahel too often grapple with the prospect of being killed or kidnapped in what is widely seen as one of the most dangerous regions in the world, Angela Quintal, CPJs Africa program coordinator, said on Tuesday from Durban, South Africa. Whenever journalists are killed or kidnapped, it sends a chilling message of insecurity to all the other members of the press working in the area and compromises the publics right to information because of self-censorship.

Previously, unidentified gunmen kidnapped journalists Hamadoun Nialibouly, program director of private radio station Dande Douentza, and Moussa MBana Dicko, head of programs with the private radio station Dande Haire, in September 2020 and in April 2021, respectively, in the Mopti region of central Mali, according to news reports. CPJ has been unable to confirm the reasons for their kidnappings.

Calls and messages to the office of Malis Minister of Communication Alhamdou AG Ilyene went unanswered, and the office of government spokesman Colonel Abdoulaye Maiga declined CPJs request for comment.

Militants abducted French journalist Olivier Dubois in Gao in 2021 and held him for nearly two years before releasing him in March.
06.12.2023 LISTEN

To start with, I will request anyone coming across this article to forward it to their friends, family members, present and past schoolmates and whoever is deemed eligible to know about it, using all legitimate means.

This publication is intended for reaching out to all former students of then Tweneboa Kodua Secondary School (TKSS), now Tweneboa Kodua Senior High School, who completed their 5-year secondary school education at the school in 1976.

Whether any such student started in form one in the 1971-1972 academic year, or joined in from another school at any level, if they completed their education at TKSS in 1976, they are those that I am addressing.

It is to inform them of the formation of Akyerema 76, a grouping of year-1976 alumni and alumnae of the school for several good reasons.

Since the end of June 1976 when we left the walls and campus of TKSS, most of us have neither set eyes upon, nor heard from, any of the classmates of whom we were best friends, prepped and mined together.

Let me make myself clear on the prepped and mined as used above. Prep was our 2-hour mandatory after-dinner self-tutored classes undertaken by students at the school, from Monday to Friday, while mining was the study for a period at dead night when others were deep asleep, probably snoring and having sweet dreams. This is just by the way.

I have had the opportunity to speak and exchange WhatsApp correspondences with some of the classmates that I had not seen, or spoken with, since end of June 1976, roughly about forty-seven years ago.

Those who have currently registered their interest in Akyerema 76 are having the chance to see the present state of their classmates. How they have aged in wisdom, intelligence and acquired academic excellence and successes in life.

If there was any such membership long before we became retirees as some of us are at the moment, we could have been of immense help to ourselves, families and our alma mater. We may in the years gone by, have needed the assistance of some of us, either for ourselves, or for members of our family, based on whom you know but by merit.

It is never too late for anything as long as we are still alive hence the formation of Akyerema 76.

The benefits to accrue to members and our former school (TKSS) are enshrined in the draft constitution that is about to be approved by signed up members.

Why not derive joy from reconnecting with your former classmates?

So far, all the signed-up members, regardless of their age, successes, or failures in life, do have absolute respect for one another. We address each other as senior, a sign of respect we have for one another.

In order not to commit any unconscious or genuine mistake that may be seen as bias, I shall not name the present signed up members of Akyerema 76 that I am aware of.

Should I forget to mention any when naming them, the unintentionally left out member(s) may take offence hence I had better avoid that situation. However, it will interest many to learn that we have our 1976 School Prefect and his Assistant and the Girls Prefect as members of Akyerema 76.

Once again, let me inform the 1976 Year Group of the loss of a classmate in the person of then student Antwi Boasiako Charles aka ABC, the House Four Prefect. He died on Monday, 27 November 2023, as Professor Charles Antwi Boasiako. He was a professor at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi.

He died in Reading in the United Kingdom while on one of his usual holiday visits to his wife and children. His remains will be flown back to Ghana between 16th and 18th of December 2023, kept in a morgue, pending the date of his funeral as may be decided by his family.

His one-week observance will be held in his hometown Bipua near Agona on Wednesday, 20 December 2023. Let us all go and mourn with the family. May ABCs soul rest in peace.

Since departing from TKSS, I had only to hear from him for the first and the last time on our Akyerema 76 platform. He was one of the administrators hence an originator of the group.

For any further information, about Akyerema 76 and other related matters, please contact Senior Amoako Atta, an administrator, on WhatsApp/telephone number +233244824030.

Members personal information will remain confidential and within the group so feel free to join, all ye 1976 TKSS school-leavers!
06.12.2023 LISTEN

On December 4, 2023 the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) under the leadership of Professor Amin Alhassan signed an agreement with China Global Television Network (CGTN), the international division of the Chinese state broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV). In the agreement, the two prominent state-owned broadcasters are expected to cooperate under the All-Media Service Platform (AMSP)  jointly created by the China Media Group (CMG), a fusion of all Chinese-state holding media organisations, the AMSP launched on February 28, 2022 is a platform designed to enable media outlets and organizations to closely track global issues including climate change.

Available in more than 60 languages including French and Hausa the AMSP is an avenue created for media organizations around the world to display and share their news programs, documentaries, pictures, audio and video programs, feature films and customized services from diverse perspectives  the platform encourages healthy cooperation between experts and journalists in the media space around the globe. For state broadcasting giant, GBC the AMSP which provides users with interactive services in various fields including media activities, technological innovation, business communication and professional training is an invaluable resource that further expands the national broadcasters toolkit earmarked to strengthen media cooperation and tell Ghanas story to the rest of the world.

Through the AMSP, GBC is expected to interact with experts and media professionals at CGTN and other media outlets around the globe, as they jointly seek to inform, entertain and educate the public on important national and international issues. The world today is plagued with myriads of interconnected challenges including rising food prices, escalating corruption and organized crime, climate change, rising poverty and geopolitical instability. To provide lasting solutions to these daunting global challenges requires all hands on deck including media organizations. By disseminating information, raising awareness and fostering public discourse, media organizations both at the national and international level play a crucial role in tackling global challenges. In the case of GBC-CGTN cooperation via the AMSP, the Ghana state broadcaster will have access to important publications on how countries, specifically China have overcome extreme poverty and have grown to become the undisputed global leader in clean energy.

With this additional resource, GBC can access Chinese media publications and disseminate vital lessons from Chinas development. Conversely, GBC could also display and share news about Ghana including culture and key fields and industries available for cooperation. Ultimately, this could encourage public discourse in the two countries based on accurate information  promote people-to-people exchanges  further open up new opportunities for cooperation in Ghana and China across various fields and industries. As a global economist with more than one hundred (100) authored publications for Chinas leading media organizations including CGTN, China Daily and Peoples Daily, the highest by far for a Ghanaian and the African continent, I strongly believe that healthy cooperation between China and the rest of the world unlocks new opportunities for development. This is the reason why I accepted to facilitate the cooperation between GBC and CGTN. In the years ahead, I believe the GBC-CGTN cooperation will contribute to forge new friendships and deepen mutual understanding between Ghana and China  influence public policy, drive innovation and create new growth opportunities across industries and in Ghana.
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.

CATL to establish international headquarters in Hong Kong

CATL is set to establish its international headquarters in Hong Kong, China, inaugurating the "CATL Hong Kong Technology Innovation R&D Center" in the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks. The memorandum of cooperation is scheduled for signing on December 7, according to information released by the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks.

Photo credit: CATL

Chevrolet launches limited-time car purchase discounts in China

Chevrolet announced a limited-time car purchase policy valid from December 1 to December 31 in China, presenting a substantial discount of up to 60,000 yuan for the Chevrolet SUV family. Moreover, purchasers of the Cruze model will receive a complimentary full tank of fuel.

NavInfo delivers human-machine co-driving navigation product to multiple automakers

NavInfo confirms the delivery of its human-machine co-driving navigation product to SAIC Motors Roewe for mass production and is currently supplying the same product to several automakers, including Hongqi, the company disclosed at the Q&A plaform of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange. These initiatives align with the companys mass production plans and are poised for market integration.

DENZA N7 to toll out highway NOA function in late December

Zhao Changjiang, the Sales Division Manager of BYD-backed high-end new energy vehicle brand DENZA, took to social media on December 6 to unveil the upcoming N7 smart driving experience season event set for December 8 in Beijing.

Farizon Auto, Gotion High-tech, Afanti New Energy ally on promoting new energy commercial vehicles

On December 5, a strategic cooperation signing ceremony took place in Hefei, involving Geely's Farizon New Energy Commercial Vehicle Group ("Farizon Auto"), Afanti New Energy Group, and Gotion High-tech.

SINPRO closes Series A+ funding for 4D imaging radar technology advancements

SINPRO Intelligent Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. ("SINPRO") recently announced the completion of its Series A+ funding round, totaling around a hundred million yuan.

Shanghai TOSUN Technology nabs over 100 million yuan in Series A+ funding

Shanghai TOSUN Technology Ltd. (TOSUN) announced the successful completion of its A+ funding round, which raised for the company over 100 million yuan.

BYD introduces SONG PLUS DM-i in Paraguay

In recent days, BYD, in collaboration with the Paraguayan dealer DIESA Group, officially launched the BYD SONG PLUS DM-i at the CADAM motor show, marking BYD's debut of its super hybrid model in Paraguay, according to BYD's press release.

NIO achieves highest-ever quarterly revenues in Q3 2023

In the third quarter of 2023 (Q3 2023), NIO recorded total revenues of 19,066.6 million yuan (US$2,613.3 million), reflecting a year-on-year (YoY) jump of 46.6% and a quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) spike of 117.4%.

VOYAH Zhuiguang PHEV hits market, starting at 252,800 yuan

Dongfeng Motors premium new energy vehicle brand VOYAH officially put its Zhuiguang PHEV onto the market on December 5.

ECARX collaborates with Black Sesame Technologies, BlackBerry for Skyland integrated intelligent driving platform

On December 5, Geely-backed intelligent mobility solution developer ECARX announced a partnership with Black Sesame Technologies and BlackBerry to develop the "Skyland" series integrated intelligent driving platform.

Great Wall Motor boasts 2-digit YoY growth in Nov. 2023 auto sales

In November of this year, Great Wall Motor ("GWM") sold 122,849 new vehicles, marking a remarkable 40.30% year-on-year surge, according to the company's latest monthly sales results. Its cumulative sales from January to November reached 1,118,202 units, reflecting a 12.94% year-on-year growth.

GAC Group scores 80.35% YoY spike in Jan.-Nov. new energy vehicle sales

GAC Group announced on Tuesday its auto sales reached 227,124 units in November 2023, jumping 19.35% over the previous year. For the first 11 months of this year, the Guangzhou-based auto giant sold 2,245,837 vehicles in total, which edged up 0.81% year over year.
Nana Akomea has accepted an apology from Professor Smart Sarpong, a Senior Research Fellow at the Kumasi Technical University, over statements that Nana Akomea is interested in becoming the Running Mate to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the 2024 elections.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is yet to announce its Running Mate following the election of Dr. Bawumia as the party's flagbearer for the 2024 elections.

The absence of an official announcement has led to speculation and lobbying for potential candidates.

In an interview on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" morning show, Professor Smart Sarpong advised Nana Akomea against pursuing the position, suggesting that the timing was not right for him.

The professor claimed that the Nsutam Development Committee, of which he is a member, had discussed and discouraged Akomea from accepting any Running Mate offer.

However, on Tuesday's edition of "Kokrokoo," Professor Smart Sarpong expressed regret for his earlier statements and apologized to Nana Akomea and the people of Nsutam.

The apology, conveyed through a message to the host Nana Yaw Kesseh, indicated that the professor faced intense criticism and had been compelled to reconsider his remarks.

Nana Akomea, upon receiving the apology on the show, pardoned Professor Smart Sarpong.

He clarified that he had never informed any Nsutam Development Committee about his desire to become a Running Mate.

"In the first place, I have never told any Nsutam Development Committee that I want to be a Running Mate for them to even hold a meeting, and also no Committee has had any meeting on it," Nana Akomea clarified during the show.
The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Jean Mensa has indicated that her outfit faces security threats ahead of the 2024 General Election.

According to her, there is a predetermined well-orchestrated strategy to unleash violence before, during, and after the elections.

She believes that the motives of those behind this are to undermine the credibility and integrity of elections and dent the image of institutions such as the EC, Police, and other security agencies.

We are aware of the security threats we face today when elections are coming. The evidence of threats to our security confronts us daily. Indeed, elections have become the lifeblood of our society, people eat, drink, and breathe elections 24 hours a day. We do witness the dialogues on our radio and TV on a 24-hour basis, the quest for power today has become so fierce.

Presently one of the major challenges we face is that whereas the violence experienced in elections in the early 2000s and the early 90s were birthed out of genuine causes and disagreement, what we witness today is a predetermined well-orchestrated strategy to unleash violence before, during, and after the elections for the sole purpose of undermining the credibility and integrity of elections and denting image of institutions such as the EC, Police and other security agencies, Jean Mensa said.

The Chair of the Electoral Commission was speaking at a meeting with the leadership of the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces on Tuesday, December 5.

She also expressed worry about how politicians and their supporters are willing to do anything just to achieve their political ambitions.

Today, we witness a mysterious and targeted approach by sections of our society to destabilize the peace of our nation and threaten lives, all in a bid to control power and the resources that come with it, Jean Mensa bemoaned.

She further stressed that based on past experiences, the EC cannot take any election for granted, especially the 2024 General Election.
Selorm Adadevoh

06.12.2023 LISTEN

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MTN Ghana, Selorm Adadevoh, has been appointed the Chief Commercial Officer of MTN Group.

He will take over from Jens Schulte-Bockum who steps down as Group Chief Operating Officer of the MTN Group at the end of his contract term in March 2024.

Mr Adadevoh joined MTN in 2018 as CEO of MTN Ghana after having worked with Digicel, as well as with Millicom.

A statement released by the mobile network operator indicated Mr. Adadevoh will become a member of the MTN Group Executive Committee after Jens steps down from his executive role in March 2024.

Stephen Blewett, MTN Operations Executive, Markets, will assume the role of CEO of MTN Ghana after Mr. Adadevohs exit.

We congratulate Selorm on his new appointment and thank him for successfully leading the company and steering it through challenging times, and for his hard work and commitment to MTN Ghana over the past five and a half years. We have no doubt that he will excel in his new role, said MTN Ghana Board Chairman, Dr. Ishmael Yamson.

Below is MTNs full statement. Announcement of Scancom PLC (MTN Ghana) CEO promotion to the new role of MTN Group, Chief Commercial Officer

As part of our work to ensure orderly leadership succession, MTN Group announces the appointment of MTN Ghana CEO, Selorm Adadevoh, a Ghanaian, to the new role of MTN Group, Chief Commercial Officer, taking over from Jens Schulte-Bockum who steps down as Group Chief Operating Officer at the end of his contract term in March 2024.

At the same time, Stephen Blewett, MTN Operations Executive, Markets, will assume the role of CEO of the important MTN Ghana subsidiary.

Selorm will become a member of the MTN Group Executive Committee. Jens will step down from his executive role on 31 March 2024 but will remain a non-executive director on the boards of major subsidiaries  MTN South Africa, MTN Nigeria and Bayobab.

We congratulate Selorm on his new appointment and thank him for successfully leading the company and steering it through challenging times, and for his hard work and commitment to MTN Ghana over the past five and a half years. We have no doubt that he will excel in his new role, said MTN Ghana Board Chairman, Dr. Ishmael Yamson.

Selorm joined MTN in 2018 as CEO of MTN Ghana. Prior to that, he held key roles at Caribbean mobile network operator, Digicel, as well as with Millicom in Africa, in addition to several roles in the USA, UK and Latin America at various stages in his career.

Since joining MTN, Selorm has led the transformation of the MTN Ghana business and has been instrumental in driving the new Ambition 2025 strategy for MTN Ghana towards becoming a platform player. His influence and impact on major industry initiatives have been significant.

Stephen re-joined MTN in July 2023 as the Operations Executive for Markets, with executive responsibility for the Group's smaller West and Central Africa markets and for providing broader operations support across that region to the Group's Senior Vice President for Markets.

Prior to that, he was Chief Operating Officer of Digicel. Before that, he spent seven years at MTN in the role of CEO for MTN Benin and then MTN Cameroon.

We welcome Stephen into the MTN Ghana family and look forward to working with him to move the company forward to achieve our Ambition 2025 strategy and beyond, Chairman Yamson added.

The Board of Directors of MTN Ghana and its subsidiaries would like to take this opportunity to express their gratitude to Selorm for his immense contribution to the company during his tenure as CEO, and we wish him every success in his new role as MTN Group Chief Commercial Officer. We welcome Stephen to the MTN Ghana family and look forward to welcoming him to the business in the months ahead.
06.12.2023 LISTEN

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is on course to conclude the process of selecting a running mate for its flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, with a pivotal meeting slated for today, Wednesday, December 6.

The move aligns with the party's constitutional mandate of choosing a running mate 12 months before a major election if the President is not the candidate.

With twelve months remaining until Ghana's next general elections on December 6, the party is obligated to announce a running mate today, unless the National Council intervenes, suspending the constitutional provision and providing alternative directives.

In today's crucial meeting, the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the National Council (NC) will deliberate on potential candidates for this esteemed position.

The vice president is anticipated to propose a running mate, and the candidate's acceptability to the electorate will be a key consideration.

Notable figures such as Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh (Energy Minister), Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum (Education Minister), and Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu (Majority Leader), are rumoured as potential candidates for the slot.

Other names such as John Ampontuah Kumah, Deputy Finance Minister and Member of Parliament for Ejisu in Ashanti, and Rev John Ntim Fordjour, Deputy Minister of Education, have also come up.

There is also speculation surrounding Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Osei-Opare.

-Classfmonline
The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) of Ghana has been elected to lead the African Network of Cybersecurity Authorities (ANCA), a key continental cybersecurity coordination body.

"The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has been elected to lead the African Network of Cybersecurity Authorities (ANCA), a body established by Smart Africa to improve cybersecurity coordination across the African continent," the statement from CSA dated Wednesday, December 6 noted.

ANCA aims to provide "a platform for exchanges and cooperation between its members and making Africa's voice heard in its dealings with partners around the world on cybersecurity matters."

It currently comprises 17 dedicated national cyber authorities from African countries.

At a meeting held in Accra on the margins of the Global Conference on Cyber Capacity Building on Tuesday, November 28, Ghana was elected unanimously to chair the network for the coming period, with the kingdom of Morocco confirmed as vice-chair.

The CSA's Director-General, Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako who will serve as Chair, outlined Ghanas vision which includes "providing leadership on cybersecurity matters on the African continent."

Under Ghana's leadership, ANCA is tasked with "establishing the governance structure for the network for effective engagements, growing the membership...and exploring funding models and partnerships for cybersecurity development."

The election, according to CSAs statement, reflects Ghana's growing prowess in cybersecurity and underscores the country's commitment to pan-African cyber coordination and representation on the global stage.
In many parts of the world, crime is on the rise, and the government's biggest challenge has been to combat this crime to restore order and peace to the citizens. However, matters get more complicated when foreign nationals who are granted asylum by European governments and the ability to integrate freely commit horrible crimes. This time, a citizen of Sierra Leone living in Antwerp carried out a murder that no one saw coming.

An unexpected odor shocked the residents of Bisschoppenhoflaan in Deurne, Antwerp, leading the authorities to discover a mutilated body in the basement of an apartment building. The victim; named Linda by the police and the suspect was an 18-year-old Sierra Leonean. The incident occurred at the end of January of this year.

The foul smell emanating from the apartment's basement forced the residents to investigate and find a traveling bag that contained the body of an unidentified person, and they immediately called the police. Subsequently, the authorities learned that the 50-year-old victim was a Chinese prostitute who had traveled from Barcelona to Antwerp with the name Linda. Later, the federal police investigators discovered the apartment where she was killed.

Despite the murderer's best efforts to conceal any evidence of the crime, including painting the scene, blood was discovered at the murder scene. Following a thorough investigation, Mohammed, a Sierra Leonean citizen who lives across the street and close to the murder site, was taken into custody. He did not claim to be the murderer; rather, he claimed to have helped someone else carry out the horrifying deed. He said to be a friend of the murderer but refused to provide the offender's identity.

Mohammed's answer proved insufficient, so he was put through a lie detector test. Following his failure, he admitted to killing the woman. His lawyer chose not to hold a hearing because of his confession, which made things easier. He is now in prison.

Note from the writer

Many youngsters were taken prisoner and forced to survive on drugs during the conflict in Sierra Leone. These lethal medications turned them into child murderers who severed the hands and legs of their victims. As a result, several of these ruthless murderers were granted refuge and made their way to Europe. Even though many have successfully integrated, some are mentally unstable and plagued by memories of their past.
Richard Ahiagbah, National Communications Director of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has asserted that Vice President and the partys 2024 flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is more concerned about tackling graduate unemployment in Ghana than former President John Dramani Mahama.

In a statement via X on Wednesday, December 6, Richard Ahiagbah took a swipe at the 2024 flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, claiming he "doesn't care" about the unemployment challenge facing many university graduates.

Mr Ahiagbah said "Former President Mahama's echoes from the past...November 30th, 2016, 10:41:52 pm. Gov't has no jobs for you - Mahama to unemployed graduates."

He compared this with the "about 2.1 million jobs" he claims have been created under the Akufo-Addo administration despite global crises like COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war.

According to Mr Ahiagbah, "The Youth of Ghana wants jobs not another round of criticism from former President Mahama, who doesn't get it. But, Dr. Bawumia gets it, he is the capable technocrat whom we must support to get the job done."

This equalisation comes ahead of the 2024 elections as the two leading parties position themselves as champions of job creation.
UN climate chief Simon Stiell on Wednesday accused nations of "posturing" at the COP28 talks in Dubai, raising the temperature on negotiators sparring over the thorny issue of fossil fuels.

Pressure is mounting near the end of the first week of the UN negotiations hosted by the oil-rich UAE, with Europe's climate monitor confirming that 2023 will be the hottest year in recorded history.

The latest draft of a global climate agreement is "probably" expected on Wednesday before it is finalised -- in theory -- on December 12, according to two people familiar with the negotiations.

The fate of oil, gas and coal -- the main drivers of human-caused planet heating -- has been the biggest sticking point on the agenda, and divisions around their future have dominated the conference.

The red line of 2023 soars above previous yearly heat records. By Nalini LEPETIT-CHELLA, Paz PIZARRO (AFP)

"We have a starting text on the table, but it's a grab bag of ... wish lists and heavy on posturing," Stiell told reporters.

"At the end of next week, we need COP to deliver a bullet train to speed up climate action. We currently have an old caboose chugging over rickety tracks," he said at the start of a long day, with a plenary session scheduled for later in the afternoon.

'Orderly and just' phase-out?

Battle lines have previously been drawn on whether to agree to "phase out" or "phase down" fossil fuels.

However the latest text includes a new phrase calling for an "orderly and just" phase-out of fossil fuels.

The language could signal a consensus candidate as it would give countries different timelines to cut emissions depending on their level of development and reliance on fossil fuels.

Activists protest outside the COP28 climate talks in Dubai. By Karim SAHIB (AFP)

But there is another option: no mention at all of fossil fuels, which reflects opposition from nations including Saudi Arabia, Russia and China, according to several observers who attended the closed meetings.

India on Tuesday evening opposed naming specific sectors or energy sources, one observer said.

One person familiar with the talks said the word "orderly" came from COP28 president Sultan Al Jaber, who also heads UAE national oil company ADNOC.

Another observer said China agrees with the language.

"It is necessary that every party move away from their red lines (and) into solutions," Germany's climate envoy Jennifer Morgan told AFP.

"We need to roll up our sleeves and get it done," she said.

November 2023 rises far above the monthly heat records of past years. By Jonathan WALTER, Olivia BUGAULT, Laurence SAUBADU (AFP)

Saudi Arabia's chief climate negotiator Khalid Almehaid, whose country's position is in the eye of the storm, said Tuesday that the 2015 Paris Agreement was a "great success for all of us".

"The challenge that we have today is how can we keep that train with all of its passengers," he said, alluding to the kingdom's objection to even phasing down fossil fuels.

The Alliance of Small Islands States, which includes some of the world's most climate-vulnerable countries urged a tougher stance on fossil fuels.

In a statement on Wednesday, the alliance's chairman Cedric Schuster called "on major emitters to enhance their commitments, including... leading the way on fossil fuel phase out".

The new draft of the negotiated text expected on Wednesday must be brought to a large plenary meeting taking stock of the first week of talks ahead of a rest day on Thursday.

'Temperature will keep rising'

Phasing out fossil fuels and scaling up renewable energy is seen as crucial to the world's goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels.

The global average surface air temperature by year. By Julia Han JANICKI, Jan MROZINSKI, Sabrina BLANCHARD (AFP)

However climate experts have warned that the Paris deal's 1.5C threshold could be breached within seven years if emissions are not slashed.

Meanwhile, the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service said on Wednesday that 2023 will be the hottest on record after November became the sixth record-breaking month in a row.

Last month smashed the previous November heat record, pushing 2023's global average temperature to 1.46C warmer than the pre-industrial era, the service said.

There had been previous warnings this year could take the title of hottest year from 2016 -- particularly after records toppled in September and October -- but this marks the first time it has been confirmed.

November also contained two days that were 2C warmer than pre-industrial levels. Not one such day had ever before been recorded.

Copernicus head Carlo Buontempo said that "as long as greenhouse gas concentrations keep rising we can't expect different outcomes".

"The temperature will keep rising and so will the impacts of heatwaves and droughts."
Member of Parliament (MP) for Mfantseman, Ms Ophelia Mensah Hayford, has refuted claims of selling the heritage of Mfantseman to foreigners.

The MP made the comments while addressing inaccuracies that have been circulated about her by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) communicator John Bambir, on Facebook.

Mr Bambir had, in a post, on Facebook, indicated that they would resist attempts by the MP to sell the heritage of Mfantseman to foreigners among other things.

The Mfantseman MP, however, responded: On the first claim of selling the heritage of Mfantseman to foreigners, I reasonably deduce that Mr. Bambir is referring to the Lithiumn contract between the Government of Ghana and Barari DV Ghana Limited".

As stated in the press statement issued on Monday, December 4th, 2023, by the Minerals Commission, I would like to reiterate that the government thoroughly examined all available options before entering into the agreement. I represent the best interests of Mfantseman. The lease agreement is available to the general public; therefore, I would urge Mr. Bambir to read it and see that the aim is to preserve the heritage of Mfantseman".

She emphasised: The assertions he makes that the heritage of Mfantseman has been sold are nothing short of false accusations.

On the issue of pulling down of billboards in the constituency, the Mfantseman MP clarified: I issued no orders for the pulling down of anyone's billboard. When it was brought to my notice of such occurrence, I instructed that such actions be halted immediately".

To borrow Mr. Bambir's words, the Nana-Bawumia-Ophelia government, advocates a democratic, free and fair elections. I am committed to the constituents of Mfantseman exercising their right to choose freely who to lead them".

She stated: The resignation of the previous vice chairman was his independent action and we maintain a cordial relationship.

According to the Mfantseman MP, she has never presented herself as a lawyer as she only holds an LLB.

I have never held and, or presented my very self as a lawyer, neither have my representatives. I have begun my legal education and successfully graduated with an LLB degree. As an MP, I have been transparent about this information and would reiterate that I am not and have not held and or represented myself as a lawyer.

She called on the NDC communicator to apologise for his statements or face legal action.

It would be in the best interest of Mr. John Bambir to apologise and retract his statements and also to desist from the peddling of derogatory comments and statements against my person. Failure to comply will lead me with no option but to initiate legal proceedings to address the harm caused by these false statements, the Mfantseman MP added.

-classfmonline
Senior Lecturer at the Political Science Department of the University of Ghana, Legon, Prof. Ransford Gyampo has expressed shock at the alleged Lithium lease deal negotiated by government.

Government has allegedly granted a mining lease to Barari DV Ghana Limited, a subsidiary of Atlantic Lithium Limited to mine lithium in the country.

The company has reportedly been granted a 15-year mining lease to mine lithium at Ewoyaa in the Mfantseman Municipality of the Central Region.

In the last few days, Prof. Ransford Gyampo has been on a crusade on social media, calling for the people in Mfantseman to resist the deal.

Arise Mfantseman! Arise Ghana! We have given our gold and oil to foreigners virtually for free and are going round begging IMF for coins. We want to do same to our Lithium? Not all Ghanaians are dumb. We will resist this with our blood.

The Minerals Commissions arrogance and dismissiveness about the attempt to rob Ghanaians of their Lithium, wont douse our resolve to resist their unpatriotic connivance with foreign thieves. Nnwifo, Prof. Ransford Gyampo said.

In the latest post on Facebook, the Political Science Lecturer has cautioned the Minerals Commission that it can hide behind a colonial legal regime to aid foreigners in robbing Ghanaians but it should take note that nothing like that will happen on Mfantseman soil.

Dear Minerals Commission, You can hide behind the colonial legal regime to aid foreigners to rob Ghanaians off their natural resources. But this wont happen on Mfantseman soil. Let your foreigners go mine in the sea, they will get fish, Prof. Ransford Gyampo said.

In the lease agreement between Ghana government and Barari DV Ghana, the company will be required to contribute 1% of its revenue to a community development fund for the upliftment of the mining area.

The deal includes a 10% royalty and 13% free carried interest by the state.

For the Minerals Commission, this is the best deal for Ghana.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- In recent days, BYD, in collaboration with the Paraguayan dealer DIESA Group, officially launched the BYD SONG PLUS DM-i at the CADAM motor show, marking BYD's debut of its super hybrid model in Paraguay, according to BYD's press release.

BYD SONG PLUS officially launched in Paraguay

"Sustainable transportation is our main goal. We have invested in the largest charging network in Paraguay and partnered with CADAM to promote the development of e-mobility. Today, BYD brings its new energy vehicle to the market. With the plug-in hybrid technologies, SONG PLUS will stand out from many models, providing local consumers with a new choice for eco-friendly travel," said Miguel Carrizosa, President of DIESA Group.

According to BYD's introduction, the SONG PLUS DM-i features BYD's super hybrid technology, adopting an engine that pumps out up to 81 kW and an electric motor with a maximum power of 132 kW. It achieves an impressive combined range of 1,150 kilometers, with a fuel consumption of just 4.4 liters per 100 kilometers. Equipped with an intelligent cockpit and functions like V2L (vehicle-to-load), this model enhances the joy of long-distance travel.

Partnering with DIESA Group, BYD is actively enhancing the construction of the local service network in Paraguay, ensuring an ample supply of reliable high-quality spare parts to meet diverse local consumer needs, said BYD. This initiative will contribute to the local transformation towards electrified transportation, supporting the region's transition to electric mobility.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) have signed a landmark four-year Memorandum of Understanding to boost collaboration around enhancing media freedom, human rights and democracy in the sub-region.

The MoU was signed on Tuesday, December 5, by ECOWAS Commission President H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray and MFWA Executive Director Sulemana Braimah in Accra, Ghana.

In comments during the signing ceremony, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security Amb. Abdel-Fatau Musah emphasised the strategic role of MFWA as "a partner of choice that has the capacity to contribute to dealing with the critical challenges facing the region."

Amb. Musah acknowledged the media's role in "mobilising public opinion in support of democratic values and countering anti-democratic narratives that appear to be on the rise in the region."

This sentiment was echoed by Mr. Braimah, who expressed delight at formalising relations between the two organisations.

"The partnership provides a great opportunity to build synergies and leverage on each others capacities and resources to effectively confront the critical challenges facing the region," he said.

Key areas of focus under the 4-year MoU include building media capacity, countering narratives of hate and division, promoting freedom of expression and access to information, and enhancing citizens' awareness of ECOWAS activities across member states.

The agreement aims to strengthen ECOWAS and MFWA's joint efforts towards fostering democratic norms, human rights and peace in West Africa.
Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Ernest Addison has reiterated that closing down some banks during the Banking Sector cleanup was very necessary.

According to him, although the closure of the banks was painful and difficult, it was necessary to avert the total collapse of the banking sector which would have affected the entire financial sector in the country.

Though the closure of the defunct banks was difficult and painful, the measures taken by the Bank of Ghana, supported by Government's assumption of the payments due depositors, helped avert the total collapse of the banking sector and by extension the rest of the financial sector, Dr Ernest Addison said.

The Bank of Ghana Governor was speaking at the Chartered Institute of Bankers 2023 Governor's Day in Accra.

Governor Addison in his address indicated that the full benefits of the banking clean-up exercise will be noticed when the legal proceedings are finalised.

Although we note the sanity and resilience in the banking system after the clean-up exercise, the full benefits would be achieved with a much faster completion of the legal proceedings including over 1,300 civil and 21 criminal cases currently pending at different stages in our courts, Dr Addison stated.
Corruption has been identified by the people as a major obstacle to our development process. Every year, billions of cedis are lost through the reckless dissipation of public funds by politicians and most especially civil servants.

We do not need to look far to establish this fact as annually the Auditor General's Report capture billions of cedis that public servants cannot account for.

For this reason successive regimes from the advent of the Fourth Republic have tried to uproot the malfeasance from the conduct of our public life. Indeed, it must be on record that some officials of the opposition NDC have gone to jail for various corruption-related crimes, notably in relation to the Quality Grain scandal.

Presently, some NDC appointees are standing trial for some alleged acts of corruption. Remember in 2009, Mrs. Betty Mould Iddrisu, who served in the Mills administration made loud proclamations about alleged corruption in the Kufuor regime and threatened that, we shall jail them. In fact, she ended up not jailing anybody. So the fight against corruption has not been taken lightly by the duty bearers except that looking at the results, it appears the efforts so far have been, No Action, Talk Only (NATO).

The present NPP government led by Nana Akufo-Addo in 2016 promised to fight corruption if elected President with the establishment of the Office of Special Prosecutor (OSP). President Akufo-Addo walked the talk with the appointment of Martin Amidu as the Special Prosecutor in 2018, but under his tenure nothing was achieved.

The OSP under his watch was more interested in going after high-profile cases to gain traction in the media space instead of going after hundreds of public servants who misuse public funds. In most of the cases they attempted to follow, for reasons best known to the OSP, they ended up chasing mirages.

The Special Prosecutor treated the obviously explosive Airbus Scandal with kids gloves, apparently because Govt Official One is a political brother.

Many students of the anti-graft crusade felt disappointed when Martin Amidu exited the doors of the OSP. Then unexpectedly Kissi Agyebeng was appointed as the Special Prosecutor by President Akufo-Addo. Some expressed doubt about the ability of Kisi Agyebeng to break bones.

With the country mired in various corruption scandals in various state institutions, Kissi Agyabeng too has been interested in high political cases to court media attention. Thus, the galamsey issues in which some government appointees were alleged to be involved caught the attention of the Special Prosecutor.

We were not surprised when Kissi Agyebeng took interest in the allegations made against public officials by the Chairman of the defunct Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining, Professor Kwabena Frimpong Boateng. Then presto, Madam Cecilia Dapaah, a former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources was caught in the corruption web and the Special Prosecutor saw it as an opportunity to make a big political statement. For the first time, we find a prosecutor running to the press to put accused persons before the bar of public opinion.

Very unfortunately he got allies in the media space such as TV3 and Joy News as well as Lawyer Martin Kpebu and Professor Ransford Gyampo to run down Madam Cecilia Dapaah as a common criminal. When the court, which is the final arbiter drew his attention to the fact that he cannot be a judge in his own case, he went ballistic claiming the court is out to prevent the alleged criminals from being prosecuted. We shall return.

Source: Daily Guide
The criminal case against the Juaben New Patriotic Party constituency chairman, Alexander Kwabena Sarfo-Kantanka, has been adjourned to January 23.

Alexander Kwabena Sarfo-Kantanka is facing 26 corruption charges for allegedly giving out bribes to assembly members in the area to facilitate his approval as Municipal Chief Executive for Juaben when the president nominated him for the position.

The Office of the Special Prosecutor opened investigations into the allegations after Mr. Sarfo-Kantanka was seen in a viral video demanding a refund of monies he had allegedly paid to the assembly members, supposedly to facilitate his approval, after he was rejected for the second time.

The Kumasi High Court commenced the full trial against Mr. Sarfo-Kantanka on October 20, 2022.

The OSP in an update posted on X disclosed that the prosecution closed its case after six witnesses were called in the course of the trial.

The rejected nominee earlier pleaded not guilty to all the charges and was granted GH90,000 bail.

-citinewsroom
06.12.2023 LISTEN

The Chief of Defence Staff Vice Admiral Seth Amoama has promised the Electoral Commission that the Ghana Armed Forces will provide background support to the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies during the 2024 elections.

While acknowledging that the army will not take a frontline role in terms of providing security for the elections, he emphasised GAF's readiness to assist the police if called upon.

"...We may not be in the upfront of election duties but we will be in the background to support you, the Police Service, and other security services", Vice Admiral Amoama said when he spoke at a national election security task force meeting, stressing: "The Armed Forces is ready to act accordingly when we are called upon but for the election duties proper, I will leave it to the security services to be in the forefront".

He emphasised: "We will always be in the background to act appropriately when we are called upon.

At the same meeting, Inspector-General of Police George Akuffo Dampare also assured EC Chairperson Jean Mensa that the security agencies are committed to ensuring a peaceful and incident-free 2024 election, emphasising the continuity of the peaceful electoral environment since he assumed office.

We want to assure my sister [EC Chairperson] that we will continue to work with my colleagues here, to ensure that just as elections in the country, since I took over, have been peaceful, the 2024 polls will be the same," Dr Dampare promised.

EC Chair Jean Mensa expressed gratitude to the security agencies for their support during past elections.

-Classfmonline
An Assemblyman seeking re-election in Prestea, Western Region has tragically drowned after deciding to go ahead with campaign activities despite his team's warnings, according to reports.

Manasseh Addison Sackey, 34, who was popularly known as Teacher Obour met his untimely death on Monday, December 4, while traveling by boat to campaign in another community under his Teberebie Electoral Area.

Teacher Obour and five others were being ferried across a river connecting Aklika when their canoe reportedly capsized in the middle of the water.

While three passengers managed to swim to safety, Obour and one other gentleman unfortunately drowned, with their lifeless bodies later being retrieved from the river.

A journalist with a Prestea-based FM station revealed that Obour's campaign team had earlier advised him against making the trip, but he insisted it was just a short distance and he would return immediately.

"His campaign crew told him not to go, but he insisted it was just a stones throw, and he could return immediately," Nana Esi Brew Monney told Citinewsroom.com.

She added that the assemblyman was last seen wearing Wellington boots around 2pm when the boat set off. His body was discovered four hours later during a search operation.

Worryingly, it emerged that four years ago Obour's predecessor also drowned in similar circumstances just two weeks to an election.

The incident comes as a double tragedy for the residents of Teberebie.

Teacher Obour's remains have been deposited at a mortuary in Tarkwa as his family is yet to be notified, per the report.

Both the chief and MCE of the area declined to comment on the matter.
A 4-year-old pupil of the Top High Academy International School at Abidjan-Nkwanta in the Ashanti Region has drowned in a 10-feet manhole filled with water.

The boy, identified as Agyeman Anthony, was said to be in school around 4pm on November 30, 2023, when the tragedy struck suddenly. The lifeless body of the young boy has since been conveyed to the St. Michael Hospital mortuary at Pramso for preservation, awaiting autopsy as police investigations continue.

A Kuntanase District Police report, which confirmed the death of the boy, stated that The authorities of the school will be invited for questioning as soon as possible.

Explaining how the boy got drowned, the report said, On 30/11/2023 at about 5:00pm, one Kofi Amoako of Jachie, came to the Jachie station and reported that on the same day at about 4:00pm, his mother, Joyce Mensah, informed him that his four-year-old son, Agyeman Anthony, who attends Top High Academy International School at Abidjan-Nkwanta, drowned in a pit whilst in school and was rushed to Royal Gate Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. Police, together with the complainant, visited the Royal Gate Hospital at Abidjan-Nkwanta and met a 4-year-old boy identified as Anthony Agyeman lying supine at the emergency ward, dead.

The police document, which the DAILY GUIDE has spotted, disclosed that inspection was conducted on the body but no marks of violence was seen on it. Police later visited the scene at the Top High Academy International School, where a 10-feet manhole containing a large volume of water in the school compound was identified to police as the one that trapped the victim dead, the report said.

-DGN online
The Minister for Energy, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has stated that Ghana's Energy Transition and Investment Plan seeks to attract US$ 550 billion in capital investments to scale up renewable energy and introduce nuclear energy into the country's energy mix.

He said this when he addressed investors during Ghanas Energy Day at the Ghana Pavilion at the Conference of Parties (COP28) underway in Dubai, UAE.

The Energy Transition and Investment Plan (ETIP), he said, anticipates that the majority of the funding for the projects will come from the private sector.

He said the government would pursue policy reforms and provide a suitable environment to execute the energy transition projects.

Investments are also needed for the deployment of electric vehicles to replace Internal Combustion Engines, the construction of electric and hydrogen fuel cell charging stations, the production of biofuels, biomass industrial boilers with electric boilers and the provision of energy-efficient electrical appliances for the residential and service sectors among others, he noted

According to Dr Prempeh, the realisation of the requisite capital would culminate in universal access to affordable and reliable power by 2024, economy-wide decarburisation, socio-economic development, about 400,000 new jobs, and above all net-zero emissions in the country by 2060.

He invited all investors to partner with the Government of Ghana to undertake the projects in Ghanas Energy Transition Framework to drive industrialisation and achieve our net-zero targets.

As I said earlier, our doors are always open and I look forward to several partnerships, he said.
The Third National Vice Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has touted President Akufo-Addo's development record, claiming Ghana's first President Dr. Kwame Nkrumah would commend his work.

Alhaji Osman Masawudu made the assertions while speaking on Accra-based Top Radio, suggesting the founder of Ghana would be impressed by the progress made under the current administration.

"If Kwame Nkrumah wakes up today, he will testify that Ghana has changed, I swear he will be very happy to see the state of Ghana today," he said.

Alhaji Masawudu noted that Dr. Nkrumah never envisioned Ghana reaching its current level of development and for that matter would have commended the current President if he was alive.

He highlighted the introduction of free SHS as an example of President Akufo-Addo's transformative leadership.

"Kwame Nkrumah will exclaim and ask which President of Ghana has been able to allow all Ghanaians and all this population attend school for free? He will be told it is President Akufo-Addo," the NPP executive stated.

The Vice Chairman further claimed Ghana's first President would again applaud Akufo-Addo for innovations such as the use of drones to deliver medicines to remote areas.
In his desperation to return to the presidency after being rejected massively in two consecutive elections in 2016 and 2020, the NDCs 2024 flagbearer, former President John Dramani Mahama, is bizarrely giving a tall list of richly interesting promises, except the all-important 24-hour electricity supply.

Truly, of all the miseries I yet have witnessed in Ghana, it seems to me that the Mahamas dumsor, which lasted for well over four years, remains the most regrettable experience in contemporary Ghana.

My dear reader, considering the negative effects of dumsor, it would only take a Madam Theresa to forgive Mahama for wilfully keeping Ghanaians in darkness and collapsing businesses and industries for well over four years.

If you would recall, the then running mate of NPP, Dr Mahmoud Bawumia, made it clear to the good people of Ghana that the dumsor was as a result of financial constraints and nothing else.

Based on the simplest definition of a failed state, I would like to submit that Ghana found itself in the doldrums of a failed state between 2012 and 2016 largely due to the unspeakable dumsor which threatened the security of the country and the livelihood of most Ghanaians.

The simplest definition of a failed state is one that cannot provide its basic responsibility such as electricity which is a security threat to a nation.

My dear reader, tell me, if the dumsor was a priority for Mahama administration, how come the outgone NDC administration rather paid dubious judgement debts to a tune of GH800 million instead of purchasing fuel to generate power?

In the days of the irritating dumsor under the Mahama administration, we witnessed endless buzzing of generators all over the country. Most businesses and industries were forced to close down amid massive unemployment.

In fact, self-employers like Hairdressers, Ice Kenkey Sellers, Butchers, among others, were the worst affected.

The disgustingly annoying and costly buzzing of generators across the length and breadth of the country, unfortunately, went on for well over four years to the utter dismay of the good people of Ghana.

Given the circumstances, we can understand how and why some concerned Ghanaians, including some supporters within the NDC are being expressing their arousing disgust over former President Mahamas desperation to return to the presidency after being voted against massively in 2016 and 2020.

Shockingly, in his desperation to solve the serious problem such as dumsor, Mahama disappointingly sign a superfluous Take or Pay Power Purchasing Agreements (PPAs) in which Ghana is needlessly paying over $600 million per year for extra power we do not need.

By gleefully signing the excessive Power Purchasing Agreements and entering into a calamitous Take or Pay deal, Ghanaian consumers are unfairly being forced to pay exorbitant electricity tariffs.

It is quite disheartening to see the NDC loyalists whose businesses were wilfully crippled by Mahamas appalling dumsor bizarrely clamouring for the return of Ex-President Mahama.

The loyal supporters of Mahama should accept the painful fact that discerning Ghanaians have overcome their supposedly memory loss and cannot so soon forget the terrible errors in judgement which culminated in economic hardships amid the business crippling dumsor.

We do not have to look any further than the 2016 and 2020 general elections results to acknowledge how Ghanaians were disgusted over Mahamas dreadful errors in decision-making which culminated in the unspeakable dumsor.

Although, the sceptics hold the preponderance of the argument about former President Mahamas unpopularity, the diehard supporters will keep cheering him on.

Indeed, the vast majority of the NDC loyalists are living in a denial about former President Mahamas perceived capability and popularity and will thus push him to another embarrassment in 2024.

The all-important question every discerning Ghanaian should be asking the Mahama loyalist is: where is the justification about former President Mahamas popularity and competence when his terrible errors in judgement sent Ghanaians into darkness for well over four years?

How can the diehard supporters convince some of us about former President Mahamas ability to lead Ghana again when he woefully wasted Ghanas scarce resources instead of purchasing fuel to generate power.

Mahama allegedly doled out huge sums of money to all sorts of people who contributed nothing to the nation building. Madam Akua Donkor of Ghana Freedom Party comes to mind.

Some of us, as a matter of principle, are not oblivious to the inexpressible anguish and the negative effects of dumsor, and therefore we are well-aware of the apocalypse of Mahama reclaiming the presidency in 2024.

K. Badu, UK.

[email protected]
LOS ANGELESDonny Long, a former male porn star who was linked to the now-shuttered Porn WikiLeaks website, has been charged with human trafficking, among other charges, in Osceola County, Florida, according to arrest records.

Long, whose legal name is Donald Carlos Seoane, was charged with state felonies and is being held in Osceola County Jail with bond set at $57,500.

The charges include human trafficking-coercion of a commercial sex act, forced labor services, harassing a witness or victim, attempting to extort a judge or magistrate, and threats of harassment against a judge.

According to the warrant executed on November 29, Long was going through a divorce and threatened the domestic law judge.

He's accused of non-consensually producing a video with another woman when he stayed in a trailer park in Florida. Long posted the video to OnlyFans after threatening the woman that if she didn't participate, he'd react negatively toward her.

In 2019, BangBros acquired Porn WikiLeaks and made a public showing by burning the hard drives that featured the records of thousands of doxed performers and their real names. The Daily Beast called Long, insultingly, the "Julian Assange" of porn.

Long's Porn WikiLeaks was instrumental in doxing performers who were exploited by the GirlsDoPorn sex trafficking scheme.

Michael Pratt, the former owner of GirlsDoPorn, was charged with human trafficking and the distribution of child pornography.

He was briefly named on the Federal Bureau of Investigation's most wanted list, along with terrorists and white-collar criminals.
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has called on United Nations Member States to recognise the diverse challenges faced by UN peacekeepers and focus their lens on the critical aspect of its operations.

According to him, this would generate high-performing and specialised capabilities, foster sustainable partnerships and chart a course toward a more robust and responsive peacekeeping apparatus in line with the ongoing reform efforts, particularly the Action for Peacekeeping (A4P, A4P+) and the Digital Transformation Strategy.

The Vice President, who made the call on Wednesday during the 75th UN Peacekeeping Ministerial Conference in Accra, noted that the agenda of the Ministerial Meeting places a focus on critical aspects such as civilian protection, strategic communications, safety and security, peacekeeper mental health and the indispensable role of women in peacekeeping.

He further urged Member States to seize the opportunity to forge new partnerships, deepen existing collaborations and lay the groundwork for a more secure and peaceful world.

He stated, We stand proud to be the host nation for this years UN Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting, the first country in Africa to do so. This is a gathering that holds significance in fostering international cooperation for the noble cause of global peace.

Our collective mission is to explore and navigate the gaps in peacekeeping, evaluate options for meaningful change and most importantly, work towards concrete outcomes that will enhance the effectiveness of peacekeeping operations worldwide.

Dr Bawumia noted that the Ministerial Meeting was not just a meeting but a pivotal moment where the Foreign and Defence Ministers would deliberate on strategies to strengthen UN peacekeeping.

Today, plenary sessions and panel discussions on various thematic issues will drive our collective pursuit of actionable outcomes. Our commitment to strengthening UN peacekeeping remains unwavering and we anticipate that the partnerships formed during this Ministerial Meeting will contribute significantly to the betterment of peacekeeping operations globally, he added.

He expressed confidence that the collaborations formed during the informal settings would flourish and contribute significantly to the objectives of the Ministerial Conference.
The Emirati head of UN climate talks faced growing pressure Wednesday to steer nations towards a consensus as negotiators sparred over the thorny issue of fossil fuels.

A report confirming that 2023 will be the hottest year in recorded history was a reminder of the stakes as the UN negotiations hosted by the oil-rich UAE reached their midway point.

A new draft climate agreement had been expected on Wednesday but none was published by the end of the afternoon. The negotiations are due to end, in theory, on December 12.

The fate of oil, gas and coal -- the main drivers of human-caused planet heating -- has been the biggest sticking point on the agenda, and divisions around their future have dominated the conference.

"We have a starting text on the table, but it's a grab bag of ... wish lists and heavy on posturing," UN climate chief Simon Stiell told a news conference.

The red line of 2023 soars above previous yearly heat records. By Nalini LEPETIT-CHELLA, Paz PIZARRO (AFP)

"At the end of next week, we need COP to deliver a bullet train to speed up climate action. We currently have an old caboose chugging over rickety tracks."

Urging embattled COP28 president Sultan Al Jaber to ease differences, Spain's Ecological Transition Minister Teresa Ribera said: "We expect from the COP president to be an honest broker and we expect leadership."

The Alliance of Small Islands States, which includes some of the world's most climate-vulnerable countries, called for "major emitters to enhance their commitments".

"If we fail, the consequences will be catastrophic," the alliance's chairman Cedric Schuster said.

'Orderly and just'

Protesters at COP28 call for wealthy nations to pay up for the damage caused by their greenhouse gas emissions. By Giuseppe CACACE (AFP)

Battle lines have previously been drawn on whether to agree to "phase out" or "phase down" fossil fuels.

However the latest text includes a new phrase calling for an "orderly and just" phase-out.

One person familiar with the talks said the word "orderly" came from Jaber, who also heads UAE national oil company ADNOC.

The language could signal a consensus candidate as it would give countries different timelines to cut emissions depending on their level of development and reliance on fossil fuels.

But there is another option: no mention at all of fossil fuels, which reflects opposition from nations including Saudi Arabia, Russia and China, according to several observers who attended the closed meetings.

US climate envoy John Kerry stressed that "adults need to behave like adults" at the talks. By Giuseppe CACACE (AFP)

During closed-door talks on Tuesday, Saudi Arabia again opposed any mention of fossils, saying it would avoid "the trauma of explaining our position ... that is well noted and clear," according to meeting participants.

China, India and a group representing Arab states have called for the deletion of an entire paragraph on an energy package, while Russia proposed adding text on gas as a "transition fuel," the participants said.

'Temperature will keep rising'

With flagrant divisions coming to the fore, Europe has called for a harder line.

"I want this COP to mark the beginning of the end for fossil fuels," European climate commissioner Wopke Hoekstra said on Wednesday.

The global average surface air temperature by year. By Julia Han JANICKI, Jan MROZINSKI, Sabrina BLANCHARD (AFP)

Germany's climate envoy Jennifer Morgan told AFP that "it is necessary that every party move away from their red lines (and) into solutions".

"We need to roll up our sleeves and get it done."

For his part, Stiell said the "key now is to sort the wheat from the chaff," urging a move towards consensus, while US climate envoy John Kerry stressed that "adults need to behave like adults".

The new draft must be brought to a large plenary meeting taking stock of the first week of talks ahead of a rest day on Thursday.

Meanwhile, the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service said on Wednesday that 2023 will be the hottest on record after November became the sixth record-breaking month in a row.

Last month smashed the previous November heat record, pushing 2023's global average temperature to 1.46C warmer than the pre-industrial era, the service said.

Copernicus head Carlo Buontempo said that "as long as greenhouse gas concentrations keep rising we can't expect different outcomes".

"The temperature will keep rising and so will the impacts of heatwaves and droughts."
The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has concluded a 3-day training workshop organized for judges on freedom of expression, artificial intelligence, and the rule of law.

Held at the Alisa Hotel in Tema from Monday, December 4 to Wednesday, December 6, the training saw participants drawn from Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

It was conceived based on the observation that challenges of press freedom and the safety of journalists in West Africa keep increasing as threats and physical harm are frequently meted out to journalists.

Mr. Edmond Moukala, Director of the UNESCO Accra Office, at the opening ceremony on Monday, noted that it was tailored toward strengthening the role of the judiciary in protecting freedom of expression, the safety of journalists, the rule of law, and artificial intelligence.

He explained that judicial actors need to be well versed in freedom of expression challenges both online and offline.

In a keynote address read on her behalf, Justice Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu, the Director of the Judicial Training Institute and Chief Justice of Ghana Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude A.E. Sackey Torkornoo, said people are no longer allowed to freely express their views on pertinent issues of national interest.

In the real world, the freedom of people to express themselves on pertinent national issues has been crippled by governmental interventions all over the world, not necessarily of a military character, she said.

"It is therefore viewed as a distasteful right, particularly among military juntas in the realm they govern," the CJ further alluded.

She expresses worry that the growing practice of yellow journalism continues to frustrate progress made in achieving freedom of speech, expression, and media freedom in Ghana.

She cited instances where some journalists and media houses published "very distasteful, inciteful, hateful, and defamatory commentary and reportage targeted at private individuals, public persons and the institutions they head."

While condemning such irresponsible journalism, Justice Sackey Torkornoo stressed that "attacks and threats on journalists and the media are never an option and must not be encouraged to rear their ugly heads nor prevail."

She advised persons affected by bad reporting to seek legal redress "through the appropriate state organs and the formal court system" instead of attacks that have been on the rise against journalists globally.

On his part, Minister for Information and Member of Parliament for Ofoase Ayirebi, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah called on judges to pronounce stern judgements against persons who attack journalists.

According to him, stiffer punishment against perpetrators by the courts is necessary to deter would-be offenders and protect freedom of expression in the country.

The public looks up to you to pronounce stern judgment on perpetrators of press attacks to serve as a deterrent to others, he noted.

The Training:

Participants discussed international standards on press freedom and journalist safety. They analyzed restrictions on expression using the "triple test methodology."

Later, sessions focused on the role of AI in law and considerations around algorithmic accountability and bias.

Facilitators:

Facilitating the sessions were legal and AI experts, including Prof. Dr. Helene Tigroudja, Justice George Koomson, and Hanani Hlomani.
06.12.2023 LISTEN

Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has stressed that the group will do all it can to ensure the Import Restriction Regulation L. I is not approved by Parliament.

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, December 6, he indicated that the import restrictions are completely unwarranted and unwelcome.

He said the government of President Akufo-Addo and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia wants to twist the hands of Ghanaians [by using kalabule tactics] to impose the import restriction law on the citizenry.

The Import Restriction Regulation L. I tabled before Parliament seeks to restrict the importation of several items including Rice, Guts, bladders and stomach of animals, Poultry, Animal and Vegetable Oil, Margarine, Fruit Juices, Soft Drink, Mineral Water, Noodles, and Pasta, as well as Ceramic Tiles.

For the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the Import Restriction L. I in its current state is obnoxious and should not be supported.

At the press conference by the NDC today, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson called on government to engage stakeholders for their views on the L.I.

The Minority Leader further appealed to TUC, CSOs, the leadership of the clergy, and other stakeholders to support the Minority in fighting the LI.

We in the NDC cannot welcome this legislative instrument. Already, importers and the business community have amply demonstrated how this regulation lacks broad consultation and consensus. We therefore call on government to withdraw this regulation immediately and broaden it engagements with all key stakeholders.

We can on the TUC, the CSOs, traditional authorities, the clergy, and all progressive forces to speak up and join the NDC Minority to reject this obnoxious import restriction regulation in the supreme interest of our dear country, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson appealed.
About 20 adolescents and teenagers from Sunyani West and Sunyani municipalities have undergone a two-day training in basic journalism as part of the Healthy Cities for Adolescents programme, which aims at promoting the health and well-being of adolescents in intermediary cities across the world.

The training was aimed at empowering the participants to amplify their voices through both traditional and digital media and serve as transformational journalists in their localities.

It was also to equip the young people of Sunyani, and foster opportunities for them to lead city-level advocacy on issues that affect their lives and impede their aspirations.

The training is an initiative of the Fondation Botnar, through Ecorys UK Limited, to focus on adolescents' needs, including both primary health and socio-economic factors that influence physical and mental well-being as well as provide grants to help test, scale, and enable projects that work with young people to tackle the issues they face in their cities.

This initiative is being implemented within intermediary cities in five countries, namely Senegal, Ecuador, India, Switzerland and Ghana, with Sunyani and Ho as the implementing cities in Ghana.

The Healthy City for Adolescents training in Sunyani, also called Resilient City for Adolescent (RC4A) Project, is designed to build a stronger and resilient city, working to improve the health and well-being of young people.

Advocacy

It is also aimed at advocating the inclusion of youth voices by ensuring that adolescents are empowered socially, politically and economically to be active citizens who demand their rights, create jobs, actively engage in decision-making processes and ensure equitable social inclusion.

Addressing the participants, the Project Manager, Edward Ayabilah, noted that the programme would go a long way to empowering them to become active citizens.

The project adopts a three-pronged approach about social, political and economic empowerment. This involves identifying and addressing adolescents needs, both social and economic, increasing adolescents inclusion and participation in city-level planning and development; and ensuring sustainable access to quality services targeting education, health, security, job creation and the environment, he stated.

According to him, when a resilient city system that aligns planning and policy on the promotion of healthy cities for adolescents is created, adolescents will play an active role by getting involved at the various levels of city planning as well as employment and review processes.

He paid glowing tribute to the consortium of partners which are spearheading this project, especially the Global Media Foundation, Citizens Watch Ghana and the Indigenous Women Empowerment Network.

Mr. Clement Boateng, a facilitator at the training, introduced the participants to basic journalism skills, news gathering, news writing, digital tools for content creation and how to use social media for advocacy.

A Media/Public Relations Practitioner, Mr. Richard Kofi Boahen, provided some tutorials on radio production and on-air presentation.
Member of Parliament for the Ningo-Prampram, Sam George, flared up at the precincts of Parliament on December 6 after he claimed that the MP for Ablekuma North, Sheila Bartels, had accused him of taking money from the LGBTQ+ community to tone down on his campaign for the anti-Gay bill.

Sam George, who is one of the proponents of the Anti-Gay bill, claimed that the Ablekuma North MP during a media interview accused him of receiving money from the LGBTQ+ community.

Sheila Bartels sat on a media and said she knows that l have taken money from the LGBTQ+ people. It took her father to come and apologise to me, an incensed Sam George said.

Disagreement in Parliament ensued between proponents of the Anti-Gay bill and the First Deputy Majority Whip, Lydia Seyram Alhassan, over the inability of the house to take up the bill on the promotion of proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values bill at its consideration stage.

The proponents of the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian family values bill, also known as the Anti-LGBT bill, expressed fury over the inability of Parliament to take the bill at its consideration stage that day.

The bill seeks to proscribe LGBTQ+ and related activities, prescribe propaganda or advocacy for or promotion of LGBTQ+ and related activities; provide for the protection of and support for children, and persons who are victims or accused of LGBTQ+ and related activities.

Although the bill was expected to be taken that day, the house was unable to do so due to the absence of the Chairman of the Constitutional Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, Kwame Ayimadu-Antwi.

Speaking to journalists, the lead proponent, Samuel Nartey George, alleged that deliberate attempts are being made by the majority caucus to stall the bill.

Since 8:am this morning, we have been calling the chairman of the committee and he has refused to pick up the call or return the call. Those who have gone and gotten influence by persons who have interest in LGBTQ+, should return whatever influence they have collected. Because we will fight, the next time we address the media, I will mention names. I have been pressed upon today by my co-sponsors not to. It is out of respect that Im not mentioning names.

But if they continue with this behaviour of frustrating the bill, how can this bill be in Parliament for almost three years? This is a calculated attempt to disgrace and undermine the authority of the speaker, Alban Bagbin and we will not accept it, he said.

He warned to expose persons behind the derailing of the passage of the bill.

Ghanaians should take note, Christian community, National House of Chiefs, CSOs should take note of the actions of persons in this house who want to slow down the bill. Those who think they can stand in its way, we will crash you, the MP warned.
06.12.2023 LISTEN

An Accra Circuit Court has sentenced a Traditional Priest to one-day imprisonment for causing harm to an unemployed woman at Teshie in Accra.

Michael Martey Mamah charged with causing harm, pleaded guilty. Mamah, together with some of his relations, apologized to the court and the complainant.

The court presided over by Mr Kwabena Kodua Obiri convicted Mamah on his own plea and sentenced him to also pay a fine of GHC6,000 in default and serve a year's imprisonment.

It further directed the convict to pay compensation of GHC6,000 to the complainant.

Prosecution led by Inspector Belinda Asante narrated that the complainant Cecelia Korley was an unemployed resident of Chorkor in Accra, while the accused person Micheal Martey was a Traditional Priest and a resident of Teshie.

The prosecution said on October 24, 2023, the Teshie Gbuglan family, where the accused person hailed from in collaboration with some factions from Prampram, organised puberty rites at Teshie.

The prosecution said the same day at about 4:00 pm while the rites were ongoing, Mamah confronted the complainant over an allegation made by her (complainant) that some of the nominated ladies performing the rite had in their lifetime aborted pregnancies.

Inspector Asante said in the course of deliberating upon the issue, Mamah became offended and slapped the complainant.

The convict further pushed the complainant onto the ground, resulting in a swollen right cheek and a dislocated right shoulder.

The prosecution said the complainant reported the matter to the Police, and she was issued with a medical form to attend the hospital.

The complainant after visiting the hospital returned the medical form endorsed by a medical officer of LEKMA Hospital.

According to the Prosecutor, Mamah was subsequently arrested and in his cautioned statement admitted the offence.

GNA
The Accra Circuit Court One has sentenced a 27-year-old housekeeper to two years and six months imprisonment in hard labour for stealing UDS16,000 from his employer.

Thomas Yokpo denied the offence but was found guilty after trial and jailed accordingly.

Police Inspector Wisdom Alorwu informed the Court presided over by Mrs Afia Owusua Appiah that the complainant and Yopkos employer, Mdaihli Fadlelah, lived at Regimanuel Estate on the Spintex road.

Yokpo lived in the complainants house as the housekeeper.

On March 14, 2023, the complainant gave Yokpo $16,000.00 to be given to one Ali on the Spintex road, but Yokpo absconded with the money and the complainants Apsonic motorbike with registration number M-22-GT 1613 worth GHC 8,000.00 to an unknown destination.

The prosecution said a formal complaint was lodged with the police, and during the investigation, the police learned that Yokpo had left the motorcycle with a friend, a witness in the case, in Koforidua and travelled to Nigeria for Greener Pastures.

It was stated that on September 27, 2023, Richmond Annin, the convicts friend in Koforidua, was arrested, and that through him, Yokpo came from Nigeria to Ghana and was arrested on September 30, 2023.

The court heard that Yokpo confessed to the crime in his caution statement and said that it was his friend Gideon, who was at large, who helped him flee with the money and the motorcycle.

Inspector Alorwu said the exhibit motorcycle had been retrieved and was with the Police.

After investigations, Yokpo was charged with the offence and put before this Court.

GNA
SEND Ghana Deputy Director, Emmanuel Ayifah

06.12.2023 LISTEN

Leading advocate for social and economic development, SEND Ghana has issued a release of its analysis of the 2024 Budget Statement and Economic Policy of the Government.

In the release, SEND Ghana noted that although the allocation for education has been increased for 2024, more funds are needed.

The Civil Society Organisation proposes that government should remove budget caps on the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to free funds to address critical infrastructure deficits and improve the quality of education in Ghana.

From the 2024 Budget Statement presented to Parliament in November, the education sector is programmed to spend GHS29.5 billion next year.

This is an increase of GHS6.6 billion in nominal terms. The allocation is 11.40/0 of the total national budget of GHS226.7 billion.

Despite the increment, the allocation for 2024 is below the international benchmark of 12-150/0.

The sector's allocation for capital expenditure also declined by more than 500/0 from Ghs2.762 billion to GHS985 million below allocations between 2020 to 2022.

This situation is also worsened by the capping of the Ghana Education Trust Fund which was established by Act 581 and amended by Act 972 and plays a critical role in supplementing government efforts to improve educational infrastructure from pre-tertiary to tertiary levels.

Analysis of GETFund allocations from 2020 to 2023 shows that 61 0/0, 60.4%, 79.4%, 40.30/0, and 41.3% of the GETFund levy were lodged into the GETFund in 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 respectively as a result of the Funds Capping and Realignment Act 2017, Act 947, which empowers the government to allocate portions of the funds to other sectors.

This, SEND Ghana notes that it is hindering the fund's secretariat's ability to fulfill its core mandate because over 5000 basic schools remain under trees, senior high schools are overcrowded despite the double-tracking system, and university students stand in corridors for lectures.

To address the infrastructural gaps the government must uncap the GETFund to allow for more effective use of the revenue mobilized to meet the critical infrastructure needs in education. This strategic move will not only improve the quality of education but also create a conducive learning environment for students across Ghana, parts of the release by SEND Ghana on the 2024 Budget analysis said.

In the health sector, SEND Ghana is calling on government to remove budget caps on the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) to address unhindered access to healthcare services towards the Universal Health Coverage in Ghana.

The Organisation also wants government to allocate the COVID-19 levy exclusively to a dedicated fund to cater for public health emergencies.

SEND Ghana in its analysis of the 2024 Budget further admonished government to increase tax revenue (% of GDP) through re-introducing road tolls, enforcing revenue assurance and tax compliance, and discouraging unnecessary tax exemptions.

The leading advocate for social and economic development explained that its analysis of the budget shows that the government has been struggling to generate the needed revenue to undertake its numerous developmental projects, as evidenced by the low tax revenue to GDP ratio over the years.

SEND Ghana notes that it is difficult to understand why a low-hanging fruit like reintroduction of the road tolls has not been implemented for a whole year after approval by parliament, although the government is struggling to raise the needed revenue as evidenced in the low tax to GDP ratio per our analysis of the 2024 budget.

SEND Ghana urges the government to consider these recommendations seriously and work collaboratively with stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of measures that will enhance transparency, inclusivity, and sustainable development in Ghana, the release signed by Deputy Country Director Emmanuel Ayifah appealed.
06.12.2023 LISTEN

Stigma and discrimination act as impediments to the uptake of HIV testing, treatment, and care and adherence to treatment procedure, hence the urgent need to fight against them, Ms. Roberta Araba Amoquandoh, HIV Coordinator at Ashaiman Municipal, has noted.

Ms. Amoquandoh stated during a panel discussion, Why do we need a renewed focus on stigma and discrimination in the health sector?" at the ongoing 22nd edition of the International Conference on Aids and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Africa (ICASA) in Harare, Zimbabwe.

The ICASA 2023, which started on December 4 and is expected to end on Saturday, December 9th, is on the general theme AIDS is not over: Address inequalities, accelerate inclusion, and innovate."

It is being organized by the Society for AIDS in Africa in collaboration with the government of Zimbabwe and other partners, including the World Health Organisation, the Global Fund, and others.

She stressed that coordinated efforts are needed to stop stigma and discrimination (S&D) within the health sector.

She noted that training health officials on the harmful impact of stigma and discrimination, support from the health sector management team, and engagement with key stakeholders in the community would serve as effective tools to stop stigma and discrimination in the health sector.

Ms. Amoquandoh, who shared her experience at the Ashamian Municipal Hospital, noted that stigma and discrimination increase vulnerability to HIV infection and affect both quality of life and treatment outcomes.

Sharing the success story of Ashaiman, who has attained HIV stigma- and discrimination-free status, she noted that the entire management of the facility adopted an action plan to reduce stigma and discrimination.

She noted that the support of the management of the health facility forms a critical component in the transformation, which also includes engaging proactive resource persons to build the capacity of health officials to prevent and manage issues of stigma and discrimination.

Ms. Amoquandoh stressed that reducing stigma and discrimination will also increase patronage of health facilities, create enabling working relations with people living with HIV, and restore the confidence of both health officials and the people affected.

She said Ashaiman Municipal Hospital also consciously developed proactive intervention plans to reduce stigma and discrimination, formed a champions team and provided access and modalities to report any incident of stigma and discrimination.

She said that, as a result of the new paradigm at the hospital, patronage has increased. Staff knowledge improved, engagement with key populations improved, and a platform was created for the exchange of ideas among key staff and others.

In a related development Dr. Douglas Mombeshora, Zimbabwean Minister of Health and Child Care, has revealed that HIV incidence in the country is currently at 0.17 percent, while the prevalence is at 11 percent.

He said that out of the 1.3 million people living with HIV, over 1.2 million are on treatment.

Dr. Mombeshora explained that despite setbacks related to COVID-19, the response has recovered and is expanding in line with the goals of Zimbabwe National Development Strategy 1 and ending AIDS by 2030.

He said evidence from major surveys has already indicated that as of 2021, Zimbabwe had achieved the 95-95-95 fast track targets, with the percentage of people who know their HIV status at 96 percent, of whom 96 percent are on ART and 93 percent have a suppressed viral load.

He said Zimbabwe is now focused on sustaining the gains and ensuring that it scales up services to vulnerable communities, including adolescent girls and young women, sex workers, other key populations, and those above 50 who are ageing with HIV.

He said Zimbabwe recognizes the importance of collaborative efforts in combating HIV, AIDS, and TB, as well as emerging pandemics.

He said that through the opportunity to host the International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa, we are committed to creating an enabling environment for all delegates to engage in constructive dialogue.

We are eager to share our experiences and also learn from others as we coast towards epidemic control and the goal of ending AIDS by 2030. We will tap from our recent experience in hosting the ICASA in 2015 and lessons from elsewhere to deliver a rich scientific, business, and tourism programme."

-CDA Consult || Contributor
LOS ANGELESFormer adult industry photographer Gareth Pursehouse was sentenced today by a California judge to life in prison without the possibility of parole after he was found guilty in the slaying and burglary of ex-girlfriend Amie Harwick, a renowned Hollywood sex therapist.

The judge additionally ordered that Pursehouse pay $7,500 toward Harwick's funeral expenses and cover restitution payments for her parents' travel, lodging and food expenses associated with the extent of the court proceedings during the trial.

Court TV reported that Harwick's parents intended to travel to the sentencing hearing on December 6.

Harwick and Pursehouse dated for a period of time. Harwick broke off the relationship with him for being emotionally and physically abusive. She also took out a restraining order against him.

Both ran into each other at the 2020 edition of the XBIZ Awards in January of that year.

Shortly after the event, Harwick started receiving texts from Pursehouse saying that he found her phone number and information on the internet. The encounter at the XBIZ Awards and the texts prompted Harwick to invest in new locks and security for her flat in the Hollywood Hills.

On February 15, 2020, Pursehouse broke into Harwicks home with what his defense attorney said was an intention to talk.

Prosecutors said that Pursehouse intended to harm Harwick by injecting her with a lethal dose of nicotine in a syringe he had on him. He proceeded to throw her off her balcony, resulting in her death, explained the prosecutor in the case.

The prosecutors for the Los Angeles District Attorney called Pursehouse obsessed with Harwick, despite not interacting for years after the breakup and the restraining order was issued.

Harwick, who authored The New Sex Bible for Women (2014), was also engaged in health and wellness efforts in the adult industry, having recently begun work with Pineapple Support.

She was briefly engaged to comedian Drew Carey, who was subpoenaed by the defense to potentially testify during the trial.
The 28th meeting of the conference of the parties (COP 28) the fifth meeting of the parties to the Paris Agreement (CMA 5) is underway starting from the 30th of November to 12th of December 2023 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) It will comprise the 18th meeting of the COP serving as the meeting of the parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 18).

The first global stocktaking of the implementation of the Paris Agreement will conclude at COP 28. Each stocktaking is a two-year process that happens every five years to assess the world's collective progress towards achieving its climate goals. The first Global Stocktaking takes place at the midpoint in the implementation of the 2030 agenda for sustainable development and its Sustainable Development Goals including goal 13 on Climate Action.

In the North Western part of Ghana; Upper West Region in West Africa, Environment Care Group/Kindoma with a very large number of women, has taken up the challenge to mount an incessant campaign against climate change and to conserve the environment through pragmatic actions of tree planting across the districts and municipalities of the Upper West Region.

From the west to the eastern part of the Upper West Region; with a distance of about a hundred miles and with the population of the region pegged at nine hundred and four thousand six hundred and ninety-five (094,695), according to the 2021 National Population and Housing Census.

In the Upper West Region, the climate is hot and there is a great difference between the day and night temperatures especially in the dry harmattan season, stretching from November to February. April and May are the hottest months when temperatures are around 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

The rains last from June to November, though they occasionally extend to December. The heaviest rains are experienced in September. The average annual rainfall is about forty three inches (43).

Water supply here has been a serious problem in many parts, especially in the very dry season between November and April. The districts and municipalities consist of flat woodland almost destitute of hills.

The vegetation has been greatly disturbed by the annual burning of grass and by human activities, mainly farming. There are stunted trees all over, with a few prominent ones dotted here and there. In fact, some parts look like semi-forest.

In the long dry season of six months, when the hot wind blows from the North-East and dehydrates the vegetation, the indigenous plants adapt themselves to resist the annual deleterious conditions.

Burning is still being used as a method of clearing away the vegetation, leaving patches of bare land and burnt shrubs, and the trees have developed fire resistance in the form of thick scalely barks.

Given this background and picture painted here, Environment Care Group/ based at Kindoma in the Wa West District of the Upper West Region took it upon themselves to come together at the local level to fight against climate change and environmental conservation. Environment Care Group/Kindoma is organizing locals, especially farmers, charcoal burners and hunters among many others to educate them on how best to conserve the environment through non burning, tree planting and the policy of replanting of trees when they are cut down for both domestic and other purposes. Environment Care Group/Kindoma has collaborated with groups such as the Sisala West Tree Growers Association in sharing ideas on good environmental practices.

For example through this initiative they are into nursing of trees and planting of seedlings and mounting of good public education and campaigns against bush burning and controlled charcoal burning activities. Communities that have been positively affected include Zini,Kusali,Jefisi and Dasima all in the Sisala West district through the sponsorship of Global Green Grant Fund (GGF).Other outreach programmes have been organized in the Wa West district covering communities like Poyentanga,Dayiri,Polee,Sugu Baaleyiri and Naaha to mention just a few.

Environment Care Group/Kindoma is on the ground actively working to stop the cutting of economic trees, environmental regeneration through conservation of trees in their natural homes by encouraging tree planting of seedlings and encouraging farmers to get involve in good farming practices in the Upper West Region

As an environmental journalist based in the Upper West Region of Ghana working for over two decades, I have closely monitored the activities of Environment Care Group/ Kindoma, and it is quite amazing to learn how at the local level so much is being done by this group to fight climate change and to conserve the environment.

The group has over the years mobilized local resources to plant hundreds of trees with the support of Global Green Grant Fund (GGF), and with the complement of governments programme of Greening Ghana and with the provision of seedlings such acacia, rosewood,cashew,mango among others it has vigorously been pursued.

Before the governments Green Ghana initiative started which was launched by the president of Ghana Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo in 2021, under the auspices of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources as part of aggressive afforestation and reforestation agenda of the government.

So it is not by accident that Environment Care Group/Kindoma has improved the vegetation in the Sisala West by providing tree seedlings to individuals and organizations in the affected areas to plant them in order to improve the environment.

In the Wa West district, Environment Care Group/Kindoma has improved the district environmentally with its tree planting exercise over the years.

The good nature of their activities is the realization that community members have themselves embraced the clarion call of tree planting and it is now caught up with the district.

This writer spoke to the secretary of Environment Care Group/Kindoma, Mr. Alhassan Nuhu, who told this writer that the desire of the group to fight against climate change and to conserve the environment has pushed the group this far to engage in tree planting and mounting of public education on the need to plant trees and to stop the negative annual ritual of bush burning, which has very negative consequences for the environment, especially on human life and property.

He said that the group is on the ground and working all year round by mounting of public education on how to conserve the environment through planting of trees which is now the new norm for the group.

Some women this writer also spoke to mentioned that Environment Care Group/ Kindoma has been a blessing for them. Madam Amamata Sufyan is local farmer, based at Naaha in the Wa West district. She is married with three children. She said the tree planting exercise mounted by the group has brought about tremendous improvement in their area. From her local perspective, the unpredictable rainfall pattern is something she thinks is improving and she attributes it to the activities of Environment Care Group/ Kindoma and the constant public education they give to the people on tree planting and non burning.

It is expected that as the 28th meeting of the conference of the parties (COP 28) which started on the 30th of November and will be ending on the 12th o December 2023, it is expected that the fifth meeting of the parties to the Paris Agreement CMA 5 will be more critical on local activities in the fight against climate change.

The first Global Stocktaking of the implementation of the Paris Agreement will conclude at COP 28. Here again, It is expected that local initiatives like that of the Environment Care Group/Kindoma will be factored into overall worldly contributions towards the fight against climate change and the necessary actions to be taken to succeed.

As we expect that stocktaking is a two year process that happens every five years to assess the worlds collective progress towards achieving its climate goals we must focus seriously on local initiatives and what is being.

The first Global Stocktaking takes place at the midpoint in the implementation of the 2030 agenda for Sustainable Development Goals including goal 13 which includes issues on Climate Action. Let us recognize little contributions for the saying that Little drops of water make a mighty ocean should be given a practical meaning as we conclude COP 28 stocktaking!

Seidu Bomanjo a development Communication Practitioner and a broadcast journalist based in the Upper West Region.
Amcor plc (NYSE:AMCR  Get Free Report) Director Arun Nayar sold 10,261 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, December 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $9.39, for a total transaction of $96,350.79. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 52,527 shares in the company, valued at $493,228.53. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink.

Amcor Stock Performance

NYSE:AMCR traded down $0.11 during trading hours on Tuesday, reaching $9.37. 9,958,839 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 7,747,990. The firm has a market capitalization of $13.55 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.08, a P/E/G ratio of 10.48 and a beta of 0.80. The company has a 50-day moving average of $9.02 and a 200 day moving average of $9.52. The company has a quick ratio of 0.74, a current ratio of 1.27 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.76. Amcor plc has a 1-year low of $8.45 and a 1-year high of $12.78.

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Amcor (NYSE:AMCR  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 31st. The company reported $0.16 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.14 by $0.02. The firm had revenue of $3.44 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.35 billion. Amcor had a net margin of 6.72% and a return on equity of 24.92%. Research analysts anticipate that Amcor plc will post 0.69 EPS for the current year.

Amcor Increases Dividend

Institutional Trading of Amcor

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 12th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, November 22nd will be paid a $0.125 dividend. This represents a $0.50 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.34%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, November 21st. This is a boost from Amcors previous quarterly dividend of $0.12. Amcors dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 75.76%.

Several hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. American Century Companies Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Amcor by 3.4% in the 3rd quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 22,830,158 shares of the companys stock worth $209,124,000 after acquiring an additional 748,138 shares during the period. Deutsche Bank AG lifted its stake in shares of Amcor by 14.9% in the 3rd quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 3,453,604 shares of the companys stock worth $31,635,000 after acquiring an additional 447,520 shares during the period. Public Sector Pension Investment Board lifted its stake in shares of Amcor by 12.2% in the 3rd quarter. Public Sector Pension Investment Board now owns 158,078 shares of the companys stock worth $1,448,000 after acquiring an additional 17,178 shares during the period. Diversified Trust Co acquired a new stake in shares of Amcor in the 3rd quarter worth $196,000. Finally, Seelaus Asset Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Amcor by 9.6% in the third quarter. Seelaus Asset Management LLC now owns 19,470 shares of the companys stock valued at $178,000 after purchasing an additional 1,710 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 49.52% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research firms recently commented on AMCR. Truist Financial dropped their target price on shares of Amcor from $11.00 to $10.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, November 3rd. TheStreet downgraded shares of Amcor from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 27th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, two have given a hold rating and one has issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $10.40.

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About Amcor

(Get Free Report)

Amcor plc develops, produces, and sells packaging products in Europe, North America, Latin America, Africa, and the Asia Pacific regions. The company operates through two segments, Flexibles and Rigid Packaging. The Flexibles segment provides flexible and film packaging products in the food and beverage, medical and pharmaceutical, fresh produce, snack food, personal care, and other industries.

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Post Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:POST  Get Free Report) Director Ellen F. Harshman sold 500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, December 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $87.09, for a total transaction of $43,545.00. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 9,272 shares in the company, valued at approximately $807,498.48. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website.

Post Stock Performance

Post stock traded up $0.01 during trading on Tuesday, reaching $87.41. The company had a trading volume of 732,372 shares, compared to its average volume of 502,387. The company has a current ratio of 1.84, a quick ratio of 0.86 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.57. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $83.81 and its 200 day simple moving average is $85.86. The firm has a market capitalization of $5.28 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.10 and a beta of 0.65. Post Holdings, Inc. has a 52 week low of $78.85 and a 52 week high of $98.84.

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Institutional Investors Weigh In On Post

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. C M Bidwell & Associates Ltd. bought a new position in shares of Post in the third quarter worth about $26,000. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp purchased a new stake in Post during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $34,000. Harbor Capital Advisors Inc. purchased a new stake in Post during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $47,000. Lazard Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Post during the second quarter valued at approximately $61,000. Finally, Covestor Ltd lifted its holdings in shares of Post by 84.4% in the first quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 1,075 shares of the companys stock worth $74,000 after buying an additional 492 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 91.98% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of brokerages have weighed in on POST. Evercore ISI raised their target price on shares of Post from $105.00 to $108.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, August 7th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Post in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. began coverage on Post in a report on Friday, October 13th. They set an overweight rating and a $100.00 price target on the stock. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Post currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $100.80.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on Post

Post Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Post Holdings, Inc operates as a consumer packaged goods holding company in the United States and internationally. It operates through four segments: Post Consumer Brands, Weetabix, Foodservice, and Refrigerated Retail. The Post Consumer Brands segment manufactures, markets, and sells branded and private label ready-to-eat (RTE) cereals under Honey Bunches of Oats, Pebbles, and Malt-O-Meal brand names; hot cereal; peanut butter under the Peter Pan brand; and branded and private label dog and cat food products under Rachael Ray Nutrish, Nature's Recipe, 9Lives, Kibbles 'n Bits and Gravy Train brand names.

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Newmont Co. (NYSE:NEM  Get Free Report) COO Robert D. Atkinson sold 5,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, December 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $40.25, for a total transaction of $221,375.00. Following the sale, the chief operating officer now owns 59,751 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,404,977.75. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link.

Newmont Stock Performance

Shares of Newmont stock traded down $0.65 during trading hours on Tuesday, reaching $39.89. 14,865,652 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 9,627,996. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $37.77 and a 200 day moving average price of $40.05. The firm has a market capitalization of $31.70 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -38.73, a P/E/G ratio of 2.07 and a beta of 0.43. Newmont Co. has a one year low of $33.58 and a one year high of $60.08. The company has a quick ratio of 1.72, a current ratio of 2.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.31.

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Newmont (NYSE:NEM  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 26th. The basic materials company reported $0.36 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.42 by ($0.06). The firm had revenue of $2.49 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.20 billion. Newmont had a negative net margin of 7.35% and a positive return on equity of 6.28%. On average, equities research analysts expect that Newmont Co. will post 1.72 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Newmont Announces Dividend

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 22nd. Investors of record on Thursday, November 30th will be paid a dividend of $0.40 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, November 29th. This represents a $1.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.01%. Newmonts dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently -155.34%.

Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S grew its stake in shares of Newmont by 66.6% during the 2nd quarter. BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S now owns 32,609 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $1,391,000 after acquiring an additional 13,038 shares during the period. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich boosted its stake in Newmont by 101,647.2% in the 2nd quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 547,513,832 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $23,356,940,000 after purchasing an additional 546,975,720 shares during the period. Wintrust Investments LLC boosted its stake in Newmont by 5.9% in the 2nd quarter. Wintrust Investments LLC now owns 31,297 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $1,335,000 after purchasing an additional 1,738 shares during the period. Private Trust Co. NA boosted its stake in Newmont by 62.5% in the 2nd quarter. Private Trust Co. NA now owns 1,233 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $53,000 after purchasing an additional 474 shares during the period. Finally, Howe & Rusling Inc. boosted its stake in Newmont by 15.4% in the 1st quarter. Howe & Rusling Inc. now owns 75,772 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $3,714,000 after purchasing an additional 10,112 shares during the period. 79.53% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research firms have recently issued reports on NEM. Raymond James lowered their price target on Newmont from $59.00 to $57.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Friday, October 27th. UBS Group lowered their price target on Newmont from $53.00 to $42.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, August 29th. Macquarie began coverage on Newmont in a research report on Tuesday, November 21st. They issued an outperform rating and a $45.00 price target for the company. Royal Bank of Canada reaffirmed a sector perform rating and issued a $52.00 price target on shares of Newmont in a research report on Wednesday, September 6th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $58.00 price target (down previously from $65.00) on shares of Newmont in a research report on Tuesday, November 7th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $55.52.

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About Newmont

(Get Free Report)

Newmont Corporation engages in the production and exploration of gold. It also explores for copper, silver, zinc, and lead. The company has operations and/or assets in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Peru, Suriname, Argentina, Chile, Australia, and Ghana. As of December 31, 2022, it had proven and probable gold reserves of 96.1 million ounces and land position of 61,500 square kilometers.

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Anhui Conch Cement Company Limited (OTCMKTS:AHCHY  Get Free Report) shares hit a new 52-week low during trading on Tuesday . The company traded as low as $11.02 and last traded at $11.34, with a volume of 59759 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $11.38.

Anhui Conch Cement Price Performance

The business has a 50-day moving average price of $12.31 and a 200 day moving average price of $13.10.

About Anhui Conch Cement

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Anhui Conch Cement Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, sells, and trades in clinker and cement products. The company operates through five segments: Eastern China, Central China, Southern China, Western China, and Overseas. It provides construction and installation services for industrial purposes; logistic services; and mining and related services.

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Bank of Georgia Group PLC (OTCMKTS:BDGSF  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week low during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The company traded as low as $41.92 and last traded at $41.92, with a volume of 0 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $41.92.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Separately, Citigroup lowered shares of Bank of Georgia Group from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, August 18th.

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Bank of Georgia Group Stock Performance

Bank of Georgia Group Company Profile

The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $41.92 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $40.13.

(Get Free Report)

Bank of Georgia Group PLC, through its subsidiaries, provides various banking products and services in Georgia. It operates through three segments: Retail Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and BNB. The Retail Banking segment offers consumer loans, mortgage loans, overdrafts, credit cards, and other credit facilities; funds transfer and settlement services; and customers' deposits for individuals and legal entities under the Express, Bank of Georgia, MSME, and SOLO brands.

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Bank of Queensland Limited (OTCMKTS:BKQNF  Get Free Report)s stock price traded down 3.7% on Tuesday . The stock traded as low as $3.56 and last traded at $3.56. 50 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 93% from the average session volume of 700 shares. The stock had previously closed at $3.70.

Bank of Queensland Stock Down 3.7 %

The companys 50 day simple moving average is $3.69 and its 200 day simple moving average is $4.24.

About Bank of Queensland

(Get Free Report)

Bank of Queensland Limited, together with its subsidiaries, provides various financial services in Australia and New Zealand. The company operates in Retail Banking, BOQ Business, and Other segments. It offers personal banking services comprises savings and term deposits, and transactional accounts; debit and credit cards; home, personal, and car loans; and travel, home and content, landlord, and car insurance, as well as investment services comprising online share trading services, and self-managed superannuation funds.

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Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (TSE:CP  Get Free Report) (NYSE:CP) shares passed below its 200-day moving average during trading on Monday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of C$103.52 and traded as low as C$100.55. Canadian Pacific Kansas City shares last traded at C$101.02, with a volume of 927,208 shares traded.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities research analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. BMO Capital Markets cut their price objective on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$128.00 to C$125.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, October 26th. UBS Group reduced their price target on Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$117.00 to C$114.00 in a research report on Thursday, October 26th. TD Securities cut their price objective on Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$125.00 to C$115.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, October 26th. Barclays lowered their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$120.00 to C$115.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. Finally, Raymond James raised shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a C$115.00 target price for the company in a research note on Thursday, October 26th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of C$112.75.

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View Our Latest Stock Analysis on CP

Canadian Pacific Kansas City Stock Up 0.7 %

The stock has a market capitalization of C$93.69 billion, a PE ratio of 22.45, a PEG ratio of 1.70 and a beta of 0.87. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 56.61, a quick ratio of 0.42 and a current ratio of 0.70. The business has a 50 day moving average of C$98.65 and a two-hundred day moving average of C$103.44.

Canadian Pacific Kansas City (TSE:CP  Get Free Report) (NYSE:CP) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 25th. The company reported C$0.92 EPS for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of C$0.92. Canadian Pacific Kansas City had a net margin of 37.14% and a return on equity of 10.43%. The firm had revenue of C$3.34 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of C$3.38 billion. Analysts predict that Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited will post 4.4844583 EPS for the current year.

Canadian Pacific Kansas City Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, January 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, December 29th will be paid a $0.19 dividend. This represents a $0.76 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.76%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, December 28th. Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 17.00%.

Insider Activity

In other news, Senior Officer James Dominic Luther Clements sold 14,475 shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City stock in a transaction on Friday, September 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$107.53, for a total transaction of C$1,556,427.27. In other Canadian Pacific Kansas City news, Senior Officer Keith E. Creel sold 3,608 shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City stock in a transaction dated Monday, September 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$77.58, for a total transaction of C$279,893.13. Also, Senior Officer James Dominic Luther Clements sold 14,475 shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City 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. Insiders have sold a total of 67,958 shares of company stock worth $6,730,380 over the last 90 days. 0.03% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Canadian Pacific Kansas City Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates a transcontinental freight railway in Canada and the United States. The company transports bulk commodities, including grain, coal, potash, fertilizers, and sulphur; and merchandise freight, such as energy, chemicals and plastics, metals, minerals and consumer, automotive, and forest products.

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CastleKnight Management LP lowered its holdings in Aspen Aerogels, Inc. (NYSE:ASPN  Free Report) by 11.8% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 310,200 shares of the construction companys stock after selling 41,400 shares during the quarter. CastleKnight Management LPs holdings in Aspen Aerogels were worth $2,447,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. State of Wisconsin Investment Board grew its holdings in Aspen Aerogels by 6.9% in the 2nd quarter. State of Wisconsin Investment Board now owns 116,830 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $922,000 after buying an additional 7,496 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp lifted its position in shares of Aspen Aerogels by 0.5% in the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 1,193,127 shares of the construction companys stock worth $9,414,000 after acquiring an additional 5,432 shares during the period. UniSuper Management Pty Ltd bought a new stake in shares of Aspen Aerogels in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $7,534,000. Nuveen Asset Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Aspen Aerogels by 16.7% in the 2nd quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC now owns 1,154,431 shares of the construction companys stock worth $9,108,000 after acquiring an additional 165,255 shares during the period. Finally, Silvercrest Asset Management Group LLC lifted its position in shares of Aspen Aerogels by 13.7% in the 2nd quarter. Silvercrest Asset Management Group LLC now owns 323,802 shares of the construction companys stock worth $2,555,000 after acquiring an additional 38,986 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 94.85% of the companys stock.

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Aspen Aerogels Price Performance

Shares of Aspen Aerogels stock traded up $1.81 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $12.46. 1,417,024 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 918,526. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.27, a current ratio of 3.27 and a quick ratio of 2.71. The firm has a market cap of $875.44 million, a P/E ratio of -14.40 and a beta of 2.05. Aspen Aerogels, Inc. has a 52 week low of $5.32 and a 52 week high of $13.50. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $8.95 and a 200-day simple moving average of $7.77.

Insider Buying and Selling

Aspen Aerogels ( NYSE:ASPN Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, November 1st. The construction company reported ($0.19) EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.29) by $0.10. The business had revenue of $60.76 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $50.84 million. Aspen Aerogels had a negative return on equity of 12.84% and a negative net margin of 25.64%. Research analysts forecast that Aspen Aerogels, Inc. will post -0.81 earnings per share for the current year.

In related news, Director Steven R. Mitchell bought 7,541 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, September 7th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $6.50 per share, for a total transaction of $49,016.50. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 134,260 shares of the companys stock, valued at $872,690. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. 5.20% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Separately, StockNews.com upgraded Aspen Aerogels to a sell rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 28th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating and five have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Aspen Aerogels currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $22.40.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on ASPN

About Aspen Aerogels

(Free Report)

Aspen Aerogels, Inc designs, develops, manufactures, and sells aerogel insulation products primarily for use in the energy infrastructure and sustainable insulation materials markets in the United States, Asia, Canada, Europe, and Latin America. The company offers PyroThin thermal barriers for use in lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles and energy storage industries; Pyrogel XTE that reduces the risk of corrosion under insulation in energy infrastructure operating systems; Pyrogel HPS for applications within the power generation market; Pyrogel XTF to provide protection against fire; Cryogel Z for sub-ambient and cryogenic applications in the energy infrastructure market; and Spaceloft Subsea for use in pipe-in-pipe applications in offshore oil production.

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Shares of Citizens Financial Corp. (OTCMKTS:CIWV  Get Free Report) traded down 3.6% during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as low as $18.31 and last traded at $18.31. 438 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 23% from the average session volume of 566 shares. The stock had previously closed at $19.00.

Citizens Financial Stock Performance

The company has a 50-day moving average of $20.24 and a 200-day moving average of $21.17.

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Citizens Financial Increases Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, November 1st. Investors of record on Saturday, October 21st were given a dividend of $0.22 per share. This is a positive change from Citizens Financials previous quarterly dividend of $0.20. This represents a $0.88 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.81%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, October 19th. Citizens Financials dividend payout ratio is currently 47.81%.

About Citizens Financial

Citizens Financial Corp. operates as the bank holding company for Citizens Bank of West Virginia, Inc that provides retail, secondary market, and commercial loan services to consumers and businesses in West Virginia. It provides various deposit products, including checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, IRAs, and certificates of deposit.

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Screen grab: AEW Dynamite

Last month, AEW promoted that the companys president and owner, Tony Khan, had a gift for the wrestler Sting.

But as it turns out, the gift  which happened to be Ric Flair  wasnt actually from Khan so much as it was from Wooooo! Energy.

On Tuesday, The New York Post published a story detailing the leadup to Stings retirement match, which will take place at the AEW Revolution pay-per-view show next March. In discussing the addition of Flair  a longtime Sting friend/rival  to the storyline, Khan revealed that the 16-time world champions arrival in AEW is actually the result of a promotional deal with the wrestling legends energy drink.

Were not paying Ric Flair; Ric Flair is essentially paying us, Khan said. Were getting paid by Wooooo Energy for all of his appearances, so were collecting revenue from them.

Flairs arrival in AEW in November came with the announcement that Wooooo! Energy will become the exclusive energy drink of AEW. According to Variety, the multiyear deal will see the sparkling mushroom energy drink stocked at the concession stands of select AEW shows, as well as in the wrestlers locker room and on the TV announce tables.

While the sponsorship deal has been known about since Flairs arrival in AEW, this is the first time these details have been made public. Its unclear whether the licensing company that owns Wooooo! Energy, Carma HoldCo, is paying Flair and AEW separately for his appearances, or if AEW is actually paying Flair as a talent but getting more money back via the accompanying sponsorship deal.

Either way, its clear Khans company is coming out ahead, with not only the presence of (another) professional wrestling legend, but also a high-paying sponsorship deal. This isnt the first time a professional wrestling star has been a part of a promotional package for a company, as Macho Man Randy Savages WCW contract was reportedly paid for via his Slim Jim sponsorship.

[The New York Post]
Decade Renewable Partners LP bought a new position in shares of Sempra (NYSE:SRE  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor bought 30,700 shares of the utilities providers stock, valued at approximately $4,470,000. Sempra accounts for about 2.1% of Decade Renewable Partners LPs holdings, making the stock its 25th largest holding.

Several other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the business. State of Wisconsin Investment Board boosted its stake in shares of Sempra by 2.4% during the second quarter. State of Wisconsin Investment Board now owns 174,212 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $25,364,000 after buying an additional 4,129 shares during the period. State Street Corp boosted its stake in shares of Sempra by 0.5% during the second quarter. State Street Corp now owns 17,502,896 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $2,548,247,000 after buying an additional 83,368 shares during the period. Petix & Botte Co boosted its stake in shares of Sempra by 100.0% during the second quarter. Petix & Botte Co now owns 11,916 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,735,000 after buying an additional 5,958 shares during the period. MML Investors Services LLC lifted its position in Sempra by 13.6% in the second quarter. MML Investors Services LLC now owns 17,685 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $2,575,000 after purchasing an additional 2,112 shares during the period. Finally, West Tower Group LLC acquired a new stake in Sempra in the second quarter valued at about $31,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 84.83% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts recently commented on SRE shares. Royal Bank of Canada reduced their price objective on shares of Sempra from $91.00 to $82.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, September 6th. Guggenheim decreased their price target on Sempra from $86.00 to $76.00 in a research note on Monday, October 9th. UBS Group dropped their price objective on Sempra from $95.00 to $89.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, October 4th. Morgan Stanley decreased their target price on Sempra from $75.00 to $73.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, November 21st. Finally, Barclays lowered their target price on Sempra from $78.00 to $76.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, October 24th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Sempra has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $80.85.

Sempra Price Performance

Shares of NYSE SRE traded up $1.82 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $72.75. The company had a trading volume of 1,265,625 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,658,181. Sempra has a twelve month low of $63.75 and a twelve month high of $84.13. The stock has a market capitalization of $45.78 billion, a PE ratio of 16.40, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.25 and a beta of 0.72. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $70.44 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $71.79. The company has a current ratio of 0.61, a quick ratio of 0.55 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.86.

Sempra (NYSE:SRE  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Friday, November 3rd. The utilities provider reported $1.08 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.01 by $0.07. Sempra had a return on equity of 9.88% and a net margin of 16.51%. The company had revenue of $3.33 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.68 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.99 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 7.8% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Sempra will post 4.55 earnings per share for the current year.

Sempra Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, January 15th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, December 6th will be paid a dividend of $0.595 per share. This represents a $2.38 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.27%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, December 5th. Sempras dividend payout ratio is presently 55.03%.

Sempra Profile

(Free Report)

Sempra operates as an energy infrastructure company in the United States and internationally. It operates through four segments: San Diego Gas & Electric Company, Southern California Gas Company, Sempra Texas Utilities, and Sempra Infrastructure. The San Diego Gas & Electric Company segment provides to San Diego and southern Orange counties; and natural gas service to San Diego County.

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Shares of Ediston Property Investment (LON:EPIC  Get Free Report) crossed below its 50 day moving average during trading on Monday . The stock has a 50 day moving average of GBX 69.12 ($0.87) and traded as low as GBX 68.80 ($0.87). Ediston Property Investment shares last traded at GBX 68.80 ($0.87), with a volume of 208,203 shares traded.

Ediston Property Investment Price Performance

The companys 50-day moving average price is GBX 69.10 and its 200-day moving average price is GBX 66.05. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 65.02, a current ratio of 24.07 and a quick ratio of 22.33. The company has a market cap of 145.40 million, a P/E ratio of -625.45 and a beta of 0.98.

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Ediston Property Investment Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Thursday, November 30th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, November 9th were given a dividend of GBX 0.42 ($0.01) per share. This represents a dividend yield of 0.6%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, November 9th. Ediston Property Investments dividend payout ratio is -4,545.45%.

About Ediston Property Investment

Ediston Property Investment Company plc a real estate investment trust externally managed by Ediston Properties Ltd. The firm invest in commercial property of United Kingdom. It was founded in 2014 and is based in Edinburgh, United Kingdom.

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Encompass Capital Advisors LLC trimmed its position in shares of Par Pacific Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:PARR  Free Report) by 70.9% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 179,782 shares of the companys stock after selling 437,760 shares during the period. Encompass Capital Advisors LLCs holdings in Par Pacific were worth $4,784,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. State Street Corp raised its holdings in shares of Par Pacific by 15.5% during the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 3,322,645 shares of the companys stock worth $88,416,000 after acquiring an additional 446,678 shares in the last quarter. West Tower Group LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Par Pacific during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $41,000. Capital Fund Management S.A. purchased a new stake in shares of Par Pacific during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $2,465,000. Nuveen Asset Management LLC increased its position in shares of Par Pacific by 12.0% during the 2nd quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC now owns 1,297,952 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,539,000 after purchasing an additional 138,907 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Towle & Co. bought a new position in shares of Par Pacific during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $29,623,000. 92.83% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research firms have recently weighed in on PARR. Piper Sandler boosted their target price on Par Pacific from $36.00 to $46.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, August 11th. The Goldman Sachs Group boosted their target price on Par Pacific from $31.00 to $35.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, September 1st. UBS Group cut their target price on Par Pacific from $38.00 to $37.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, November 13th. Finally, StockNews.com raised Par Pacific from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, November 30th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Par Pacific currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $36.00.

Par Pacific Trading Down 1.9 %

Par Pacific stock traded down $0.64 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $33.10. The companys stock had a trading volume of 131,194 shares, compared to its average volume of 899,479. The company has a 50 day moving average of $33.48 and a 200-day moving average of $30.98. The stock has a market cap of $2.00 billion, a PE ratio of 3.93 and a beta of 1.98. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50, a quick ratio of 0.49 and a current ratio of 1.12. Par Pacific Holdings, Inc. has a one year low of $19.39 and a one year high of $37.50.

Par Pacific (NYSE:PARR  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Monday, November 6th. The company reported $3.15 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.03 by $0.12. The company had revenue of $2.58 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.46 billion. Par Pacific had a return on equity of 64.64% and a net margin of 6.67%. On average, research analysts anticipate that Par Pacific Holdings, Inc. will post 8.6 EPS for the current year.

Par Pacific Profile

(Free Report)

Par Pacific Holdings, Inc owns and operates energy and infrastructure businesses. The company operates through three segments: Refining, Retail, and Logistics. The Refining segment owns and operates three refineries that produces ultra-low sulfur diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, marine fuel, distillate, asphalt, low sulfur fuel oil, and other associated refined products primarily for consumption in Hawaii, Pacific Northwest, Wyoming, and South Dakota.

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Innealta Capital LLC raised its holdings in iShares MSCI Japan ETF (NYSEARCA:EWJ  Free Report) by 41.0% in the second quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 114,238 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 33,231 shares during the period. iShares MSCI Japan ETF accounts for 2.8% of Innealta Capital LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 11th largest holding. Innealta Capital LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI Japan ETF were worth $7,071,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. North Star Investment Management Corp. grew its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 8.1% during the 2nd quarter. North Star Investment Management Corp. now owns 2,273 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $141,000 after acquiring an additional 171 shares during the period. JGP Wealth Management LLC grew its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 4.1% during the 2nd quarter. JGP Wealth Management LLC now owns 4,927 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $305,000 after acquiring an additional 193 shares during the period. Oarsman Capital Inc. grew its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 3.4% during the 1st quarter. Oarsman Capital Inc. now owns 5,980 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $351,000 after acquiring an additional 198 shares during the period. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. grew its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 1.9% during the 1st quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 10,809 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $634,000 after acquiring an additional 199 shares during the period. Finally, Harbour Capital Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF by 6.1% during the 2nd quarter. Harbour Capital Advisors LLC now owns 3,715 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $231,000 after acquiring an additional 215 shares during the period.

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iShares MSCI Japan ETF Trading Up 1.4 %

Shares of EWJ stock traded up $0.86 on Wednesday, hitting $62.88. 1,735,583 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 6,024,409. iShares MSCI Japan ETF has a one year low of $53.27 and a one year high of $64.11. The firms 50 day moving average is $60.42 and its two-hundred day moving average is $61.27. The firm has a market capitalization of $13.41 billion, a PE ratio of 12.76 and a beta of 0.68.

iShares MSCI Japan ETF Company Profile

iShares MSCI Japan ETF (the fund), formerly Ishares Msci Japan Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of publicly traded securities in the Japanese market, as measured by the MSCI Japan Index (the Index).

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Innealta Capital LLC grew its position in iShares MSCI Italy ETF (NYSEARCA:EWI  Free Report) by 118.5% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 58,786 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after acquiring an additional 31,886 shares during the quarter. Innealta Capital LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI Italy ETF were worth $1,871,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of EWI. Fiduciary Alliance LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Italy ETF in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $44,000. Fifth Third Bancorp acquired a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Italy ETF in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $45,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. acquired a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Italy ETF in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $78,000. AlphaCentric Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Italy ETF in the 1st quarter worth approximately $145,000. Finally, BNP Paribas Arbitrage SNC raised its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI Italy ETF by 979.4% in the 2nd quarter. BNP Paribas Arbitrage SNC now owns 5,969 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $190,000 after buying an additional 5,416 shares in the last quarter.

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iShares MSCI Italy ETF Price Performance

Shares of EWI traded up $0.22 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $33.21. The company had a trading volume of 90,203 shares, compared to its average volume of 428,946. iShares MSCI Italy ETF has a twelve month low of $26.46 and a twelve month high of $33.67. The companys 50-day moving average is $31.00 and its 200-day moving average is $31.37. The company has a market capitalization of $371.29 million, a P/E ratio of 10.24 and a beta of 1.03.

About iShares MSCI Italy ETF

iShares MSCI Italy Capped ETF, formerly iShares MSCI Italy Capped Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the MSCI Italy 25/50 Index (Index). The Index consists of stocks traded primarily on the Milan Stock Exchange.

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Shares of iShares Core Canadian Universe Bond Index ETF (TSE:XBB  Get Free Report) traded up 0.7% during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The company traded as high as C$27.75 and last traded at C$27.72. 341,128 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 103% from the average session volume of 168,331 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$27.54.

iShares Core Canadian Universe Bond Index ETF Stock Up 0.7 %

The company has a fifty day moving average price of C$26.61 and a two-hundred day moving average price of C$26.91.

iShares Core Canadian Universe Bond Index ETF Company Profile

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iShares DEX Universe Bond Index Fund seeks to provide income by replicating, to the extent possible, the performance of the DEX Universe Bond Index, net of expenses. The DEX Bond Index consists of a diversified selection of investment-grade Government of Canada, provincial, corporate and municipal bonds issued domestically in Canada and denominated in Canadian dollars.

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Innealta Capital LLC increased its position in iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (NYSEARCA:EWU  Free Report) by 51.4% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 180,894 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 61,450 shares during the period. iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF makes up about 2.3% of Innealta Capital LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 16th biggest position. Innealta Capital LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF were worth $5,852,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of EWU. Jane Street Group LLC grew its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF by 659.9% in the 1st quarter. Jane Street Group LLC now owns 22,079,820 shares of the companys stock worth $712,295,000 after acquiring an additional 19,174,359 shares during the period. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich grew its holdings in iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF by 30,237.7% during the 2nd quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 9,329,160 shares of the companys stock valued at $301,798,000 after buying an additional 9,298,409 shares during the last quarter. Flow Traders U.S. LLC grew its holdings in iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF by 366.0% during the 1st quarter. Flow Traders U.S. LLC now owns 1,447,943 shares of the companys stock valued at $46,711,000 after buying an additional 1,137,250 shares during the last quarter. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company grew its holdings in iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF by 264.1% during the 1st quarter. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company now owns 575,175 shares of the companys stock valued at $19,349,000 after buying an additional 417,205 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada grew its holdings in iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF by 34.0% during the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 1,225,694 shares of the companys stock valued at $41,232,000 after buying an additional 310,850 shares during the last quarter.

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iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF Price Performance

NYSEARCA:EWU traded up $0.12 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $32.48. 351,212 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,038,494. The firms 50-day moving average is $31.55 and its 200-day moving average is $32.03. The stock has a market cap of $2.80 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.02 and a beta of 0.83. iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF has a 1-year low of $30.00 and a 1-year high of $34.04.

About iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF

The iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF (EWU) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI United Kingdom index. The fund tracks a market cap-weighted index of British companies. It covers the top 85% of British companies by market cap. EWU was launched on Mar 12, 1996 and is managed by BlackRock.

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NRG Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NRG  Get Free Report)s share price reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $48.68 and last traded at $48.26, with a volume of 3773039 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $48.08.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

NRG has been the subject of several analyst reports. Guggenheim upgraded NRG Energy from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $50.00 target price for the company in a research report on Wednesday, November 1st. StockNews.com lowered NRG Energy from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Thursday, November 30th. UBS Group upgraded NRG Energy from a sell rating to a neutral rating and boosted their price objective for the company from $33.00 to $46.00 in a research report on Monday, November 6th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on NRG Energy from $40.00 to $41.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 25th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets boosted their price objective on NRG Energy from $46.00 to $49.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 21st. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $46.40.

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NRG Energy Trading Up 0.4 %

The company has a market cap of $10.90 billion, a P/E ratio of -6.25 and a beta of 1.01. The company has a current ratio of 1.06, a quick ratio of 0.99 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.75. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $43.38 and a 200-day moving average price of $39.05.

NRG Energy (NYSE:NRG  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 2nd. The utilities provider reported $1.62 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.53 by $0.09. NRG Energy had a positive return on equity of 41.72% and a negative net margin of 5.96%. The company had revenue of $7.95 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.43 billion. Analysts forecast that NRG Energy, Inc. will post 4.54 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

NRG Energy Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, November 15th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, November 1st were issued a dividend of $0.3775 per share. This represents a $1.51 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.13%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, October 31st. NRG Energys dividend payout ratio is -19.56%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On NRG Energy

Several hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. increased its position in NRG Energy by 6.5% during the 1st quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 39,743 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,525,000 after buying an additional 2,422 shares during the period. US Bancorp DE increased its position in NRG Energy by 12.7% during the 1st quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 15,350 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $589,000 after buying an additional 1,727 shares during the period. Rhumbline Advisers increased its position in NRG Energy by 6.2% during the 1st quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 427,433 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $16,396,000 after buying an additional 24,792 shares during the period. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS increased its position in NRG Energy by 6.6% during the 1st quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 32,760 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,257,000 after buying an additional 2,028 shares during the period. Finally, Great West Life Assurance Co. Can increased its position in NRG Energy by 6.8% during the 1st quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can now owns 229,581 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $9,243,000 after buying an additional 14,574 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 97.72% of the companys stock.

About NRG Energy

(Get Free Report)

NRG Energy, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an integrated power company in the United States. It operates through Texas, East, and West segments. The company is involved in producing and selling electricity and related products and services to approximately residential, commercial, industrial, and wholesale customers.

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Orient Overseas (International) Limited (OTCMKTS:OROVY  Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week low during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The company traded as low as $59.65 and last traded at $59.65, with a volume of 282 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $60.42.

Orient Overseas (International) Price Performance

The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $62.98 and a 200-day moving average price of $68.78.

Orient Overseas (International) Company Profile

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Orient Overseas (International) Limited, an investment holding company, provides container transport and logistics services in Asia, Europe, Australia, and North America. The company offers supply chain management services; and containerised shipping services in various trade lanes comprising Trans-Pacific, Trans-Atlantic, Asia/Europe, Asia/Australia, and Intra-Asia trades.

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Pacific Booker Minerals Inc. (OTCMKTS:PBMLF  Get Free Report)s share price was up 12.6% during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The company traded as high as $0.56 and last traded at $0.56. Approximately 20,000 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 414% from the average daily volume of 3,893 shares. The stock had previously closed at $0.50.

Pacific Booker Minerals Stock Performance

The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $0.51 and its 200-day simple moving average is $0.48. The stock has a market capitalization of $9.47 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -18.77 and a beta of -0.27.

Pacific Booker Minerals Company Profile

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Pacific Booker Minerals Inc engages in the exploration of mineral properties in Canada. The company primarily explores for copper, gold, and molybdenum deposits. It holds interests in the Morrison property located in British Columbia. The company was formerly known as Booker Gold Explorations Limited and changed its name to Pacific Booker Minerals Inc in February 2000.

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Phreesia (NYSE:PHR  Get Free Report) issued its earnings results on Tuesday. The company reported ($0.58) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($0.68) by $0.10, MarketWatch Earnings reports. Phreesia had a negative net margin of 47.75% and a negative return on equity of 54.52%. The business had revenue of $91.62 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $89.60 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted ($0.76) EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 25.3% on a year-over-year basis.

Phreesia Stock Performance

NYSE:PHR traded down $0.51 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, reaching $14.67. The stock had a trading volume of 1,893,344 shares, compared to its average volume of 458,882. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.03, a quick ratio of 2.58 and a current ratio of 2.58. The firm has a market capitalization of $809.93 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -5.13 and a beta of 0.84. Phreesia has a twelve month low of $12.05 and a twelve month high of $40.00. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $15.86 and a 200 day simple moving average of $24.20.

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Insider Activity at Phreesia

In related news, SVP Amy Beth Vanduyn sold 1,826 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, September 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $20.34, for a total value of $37,140.84. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now owns 120,811 shares in the company, valued at $2,457,295.74. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. In related news, General Counsel Allison C. Hoffman sold 3,256 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, September 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $20.34, for a total value of $66,227.04. Following the completion of the sale, the general counsel now owns 118,532 shares in the company, valued at $2,410,940.88. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, SVP Amy Beth Vanduyn sold 1,826 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, September 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $20.34, for a total transaction of $37,140.84. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now owns 120,811 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,457,295.74. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 29,610 shares of company stock worth $567,877 over the last 90 days. Company insiders own 5.80% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of Phreesia

Analyst Ratings Changes

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Acadian Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Phreesia in the first quarter valued at about $43,000. Captrust Financial Advisors raised its stake in shares of Phreesia by 154.6% during the 2nd quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 1,426 shares of the companys stock worth $36,000 after buying an additional 866 shares during the last quarter. State of Wyoming raised its stake in shares of Phreesia by 34.6% during the 2nd quarter. State of Wyoming now owns 1,918 shares of the companys stock worth $59,000 after buying an additional 493 shares during the last quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC raised its stake in shares of Phreesia by 85.4% during the 3rd quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 3,137 shares of the companys stock worth $80,000 after buying an additional 1,445 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Point72 Hong Kong Ltd raised its stake in shares of Phreesia by 266.6% during the 1st quarter. Point72 Hong Kong Ltd now owns 5,381 shares of the companys stock worth $142,000 after buying an additional 3,913 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 94.37% of the companys stock.

Several brokerages have recently issued reports on PHR. Needham & Company LLC restated a buy rating and issued a $40.00 target price on shares of Phreesia in a report on Thursday, September 7th. Piper Sandler decreased their price objective on Phreesia from $43.00 to $40.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, September 12th. Robert W. Baird decreased their price objective on Phreesia from $40.00 to $39.00 in a report on Thursday, September 7th. Raymond James decreased their price objective on Phreesia from $40.00 to $30.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Monday, September 11th. Finally, William Blair reissued an outperform rating on shares of Phreesia in a report on Thursday, September 7th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $37.15.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on Phreesia

About Phreesia

(Get Free Report)

Phreesia, Inc provides an integrated SaaS-based software and payment platform for the healthcare industry in the United States and Canada. Its Phreesia Platform offers access solutions that offers appointment scheduling system for online appointments, reminders, and referral tracking; registration solution to automate patient self-registration; revenue cycle solution, which offer insurance-verification processes, point-of-sale payments applications, post-visit payment collection, and flexible payment options; and network connect solution to deliver clinically relevant content to patients.

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Science Applications International (NYSE:SAIC  Get Free Report) released its quarterly earnings results on Monday. The information technology services provider reported $2.27 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.69 by $0.58, MarketWatch Earnings reports. Science Applications International had a net margin of 6.49% and a return on equity of 25.76%. The firm had revenue of $1.90 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.79 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $1.90 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was down .7% compared to the same quarter last year. Science Applications International updated its FY24 guidance to $7.70-7.90 EPS.

Science Applications International Price Performance

Shares of SAIC stock opened at $131.68 on Wednesday. Science Applications International has a 1-year low of $95.43 and a 1-year high of $136.05. The stocks 50-day moving average is $112.49 and its 200 day moving average is $112.18. The company has a market cap of $6.97 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.41 and a beta of 0.72. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.20, a current ratio of 1.14 and a quick ratio of 1.08.

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Science Applications International Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 26th. Investors of record on Friday, January 12th will be given a dividend of $0.37 per share. This represents a $1.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.12%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, January 11th. Science Applications Internationals payout ratio is currently 16.19%.

Insider Activity at Science Applications International

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Science Applications International

In related news, insider Robert S. Genter sold 1,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, October 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $106.30, for a total transaction of $159,450.00. Following the sale, the insider now owns 55,605 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,910,811.50. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website . In other Science Applications International news, insider Robert S. Genter sold 3,557 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, September 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $109.79, for a total value of $390,523.03. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 57,155 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,275,047.45. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink . Also, insider Robert S. Genter sold 1,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, October 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $106.30, for a total value of $159,450.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 55,605 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,910,811.50. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders have sold a total of 7,061 shares of company stock valued at $778,169 over the last quarter. 1.29% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Several institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Science Applications International during the first quarter worth about $978,000. Natixis Advisors L.P. lifted its holdings in shares of Science Applications International by 14.0% during the first quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. now owns 11,670 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $1,076,000 after purchasing an additional 1,432 shares during the period. Bank of Montreal Can lifted its holdings in shares of Science Applications International by 19.5% during the first quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 11,432 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $1,073,000 after purchasing an additional 1,862 shares during the period. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund acquired a new stake in shares of Science Applications International during the first quarter worth about $578,000. Finally, MetLife Investment Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Science Applications International by 32.0% during the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 36,823 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $3,394,000 after purchasing an additional 8,926 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 75.31% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of brokerages recently issued reports on SAIC. StockNews.com lowered Science Applications International from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday. JPMorgan Chase & Co. downgraded Science Applications International from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and lifted their target price for the stock from $130.00 to $142.00 in a research report on Tuesday. Stifel Nicolaus reissued a hold rating and set a $115.00 target price on shares of Science Applications International in a research note on Monday, October 2nd. Truist Financial raised their price target on shares of Science Applications International from $115.00 to $130.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company upped their target price on Science Applications International from $116.00 to $141.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have issued a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $123.71.

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Science Applications International Company Profile

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Science Applications International Corporation provides technical, engineering, and enterprise information technology (IT) services primarily in the United States. The company's offerings include engineering; technology integration; IT modernization; maintenance of ground and maritime systems; logistics; training and simulation; operation and program support services; and end-to-end services, such as design, development, integration, deployment, management and operations, sustainment, and security of its customers' IT infrastructure, as well as cloud migration, managed services, infrastructure modernization, and enterprise IT-as-a-service solutions; and data management platform solutions.

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TELUS Co. (TSE:T  Get Free Report) (NYSE:TU) crossed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Monday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of C$24.02 and traded as high as C$25.36. TELUS shares last traded at C$25.23, with a volume of 4,513,735 shares trading hands.

Analyst Ratings Changes

T has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Royal Bank of Canada raised their target price on shares of TELUS from C$29.00 to C$30.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, November 6th. National Bankshares decreased their price target on TELUS from C$27.00 to C$26.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, October 26th. TD Securities cut their price objective on TELUS from C$29.00 to C$27.00 in a report on Monday, November 6th. Canaccord Genuity Group dropped their price target on shares of TELUS from C$30.00 to C$26.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, October 24th. Finally, UBS Group dropped their target price on shares of TELUS from C$27.00 to C$24.00 in a report on Tuesday, October 10th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat.com, TELUS has an average rating of Buy and an average target price of C$28.25.

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TELUS Price Performance

The companys 50-day simple moving average is C$23.25 and its 200 day simple moving average is C$24.00. The company has a market capitalization of C$37.36 billion, a P/E ratio of 47.74, a P/E/G ratio of 2.21 and a beta of 0.68. The company has a quick ratio of 0.52, a current ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 159.74.

TELUS (TSE:T  Get Free Report) (NYSE:TU) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, November 3rd. The company reported C$0.25 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of C$0.27 by C($0.02). TELUS had a return on equity of 4.65% and a net margin of 4.03%. The business had revenue of C$5.01 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of C$5.11 billion. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that TELUS Co. will post 1.0889276 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

TELUS Increases Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, January 2nd. Investors of record on Monday, December 11th will be issued a dividend of $0.376 per share. This is an increase from TELUSs previous quarterly dividend of $0.36. This represents a $1.50 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.88%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 8th. TELUSs dividend payout ratio is currently 277.78%.

Insider Activity

In other news, Director Darren Entwistle purchased 12,230 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, September 28th. The stock was purchased at an average price of C$16.36 per share, with a total value of C$200,081.58. 0.02% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

TELUS Company Profile

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TELUS Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides a range of telecommunications and information technology products and services in Canada. It operates through Technology Solutions and Digitally-Led Customer Experiences segments. The Technology Solutions segment offers a range of telecommunications products and services; network services; mobile technologies equipment; data services, such as internet protocol; television; hosting, managed information technology, and cloud-based services; software, data management, and data analytics-driven smart food-chain and consumer goods technologies; home and business security; healthcare software and technology solutions; and voice and other telecommunications services.

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TreeHouse Foods, Inc. (NYSE:THS  Get Free Report) Director Mark Hunter sold 4,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, December 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $41.86, for a total transaction of $167,440.00. Following the sale, the director now owns 567 shares in the company, valued at $23,734.62. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link.

TreeHouse Foods Stock Down 1.5 %

Shares of NYSE THS traded down $0.63 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, reaching $41.33. The company had a trading volume of 339,618 shares, compared to its average volume of 356,017. TreeHouse Foods, Inc. has a 52-week low of $36.11 and a 52-week high of $55.30. The company has a current ratio of 1.16, a quick ratio of 0.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.91. The stock has a market cap of $2.29 billion, a P/E ratio of 103.85 and a beta of 0.43. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $41.13 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $46.11.

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TreeHouse Foods (NYSE:THS  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, November 6th. The company reported $0.57 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.50 by $0.07. TreeHouse Foods had a net margin of 0.62% and a return on equity of 8.81%. The company had revenue of $863.30 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $955.26 million. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.18 EPS. TreeHouse Foodss revenue for the quarter was up 3.6% on a year-over-year basis. Sell-side analysts predict that TreeHouse Foods, Inc. will post 2.42 earnings per share for the current year.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on THS shares. Barclays reduced their price objective on shares of TreeHouse Foods from $55.00 to $46.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, October 12th. StockNews.com upgraded shares of TreeHouse Foods from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, November 10th. Stifel Nicolaus reduced their price objective on shares of TreeHouse Foods from $47.00 to $42.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, November 7th. Stephens started coverage on shares of TreeHouse Foods in a report on Friday, October 13th. They issued an equal weight rating and a $48.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, TheStreet lowered shares of TreeHouse Foods from a b- rating to a c rating in a report on Thursday, August 24th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, TreeHouse Foods currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $49.00.

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Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. JANA Partners Management LP purchased a new position in TreeHouse Foods during the 3rd quarter worth $213,877,000. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP boosted its holdings in shares of TreeHouse Foods by 1.3% in the second quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 2,974,435 shares of the companys stock valued at $149,854,000 after acquiring an additional 38,447 shares in the last quarter. Shapiro Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of TreeHouse Foods by 47.7% in the first quarter. Shapiro Capital Management LLC now owns 2,628,233 shares of the companys stock valued at $84,787,000 after acquiring an additional 848,909 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp boosted its holdings in shares of TreeHouse Foods by 1.2% in the second quarter. State Street Corp now owns 1,997,638 shares of the companys stock valued at $83,541,000 after acquiring an additional 23,101 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its holdings in shares of TreeHouse Foods by 6.5% in the third quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 1,231,391 shares of the companys stock valued at $53,664,000 after acquiring an additional 75,162 shares in the last quarter. 99.81% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

TreeHouse Foods Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

TreeHouse Foods, Inc manufactures and distributes private label foods and beverages in the United States and internationally. The company provides snacking product, such as crackers, pretzels, in-store bakery items, frozen griddle items, cookies, snack bars, and unique candy; and beverage and drink mix, including non-dairy creamer, single serve beverages, broths/stocks, powdered beverages and other blends, tea, and ready-to-drink-beverages.

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Victoria Gold Corp (CVE:VIT  Get Free Report)s share price passed below its 50-day moving average during trading on Monday . The stock has a 50-day moving average of C$8.30 and traded as low as C$8.22. Victoria Gold shares last traded at C$8.30, with a volume of 136,122 shares changing hands.

Victoria Gold Stock Down 1.5 %

The stock has a market cap of C$474.98 million and a price-to-earnings ratio of -13.34. The company has a quick ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 0.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 96.76. The stock has a fifty day moving average of C$8.30 and a two-hundred day moving average of C$8.30.

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Insider Activity at Victoria Gold

In other news, Director Steven Charles Haggarty bought 50,000 shares of Victoria Gold stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, November 16th. The shares were purchased at an average price of C$6.39 per share, for a total transaction of C$319,500.00.

About Victoria Gold

Victoria Gold Corp. engages in the acquisition, evaluation, and exploration of mineral properties in Canada and the United States. The company primarily explores for gold deposits. Its principal property is 100% owned Dublin Gulch property, which hosts the Eagle Gold deposit covering an area of approximately 555 square kilometers located in central Yukon, Canada.

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Following the loss of the members of the U.S. Forces due to the crash of the CV-22 that occurred on November 29 off the shore of Yakushima Island, Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio sent a letter of condolence that included the following message to President of the United States of America, Joseph R. Biden.



In his letter, Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio stated that he was deeply saddened to hear of the tragic news about the loss of eight crew members of the U.S. Air Force due to the crash of the CV-22 belonging to Yokota Air Base, on November 29 off the shore of Yakushima Island, and on behalf of the Government and the people of Japan, he expressed sincere condolences for the loss of these crew members.



He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the members of the U.S. Forces Japan who carry out missions day and night, far away from their hometowns and families, to maintain peace and security of Japan and the surrounding region and expressed his wholehearted appreciation for their devotion to the Japan-US Alliance.
Manish Anand is Delhi-based journalist. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
A group of 30 local, state and federal leaders gathered in Billings Monday to devise ways to bolster public safety and curb violence following a spate of recent shootings around the city.

The law enforcement, criminal justice and government officials focused on four topics during the meeting at the Billings Public Library, including reducing family violence, developing criminal intervention strategies, lowering violent and property crime and improving downtown safety.

Mayor Bill Cole said although public safety has been a top priority of the city for several years, it has taken on renewed urgency because of an unprecedented string of homicides from Oct. 28 to Nov. 9 and several other serious but non-fatal shootings in the past month.

The average age of the five recent homicide victims and the four people charged in connection with the murders is just 18, Cole told the crowd of more than 50 at the meeting.

Ironically, these tragic deaths occurred in a year in which weve actually seen a significant decrease in violent crime, he said, noting it was down in the first half of this year compared to the same period in 2022 and has declined by 18.3% since the peak in 2021. But one death is too many. And the reality is that even though our crime numbers have been coming down out of the COVID-19 pandemic, theyre still higher than historical and national averages.

After the recent upsurge in shootings, Billings Public Schools Superintendent Erwin Garcia said the district looked into the backgrounds of some of the teens who were involved.

Theres a commonality  dropouts, he said.

The districts overall graduation rate is 86%. But, Garcia said, it drops to about 69% for Native American and Hispanic students and is even lower for other minorities.

So far this year, 90 Billings students have dropped out and the district expects that number to rise to about 150 by early 2024.

People say, 'Well we dont have money to do this or to do that to address this problem,' Garcia said. We either pay now or we pay later because those 150 kids we lose from our system will show up somewhere.

The district in October invited the 90 students whove dropped out this year and their families to lunch.

Those kids matter, Garcia said. We have 30 back and we have 60 more to go.

The superintendent is also working on creating an opportunity school that would focus on students who are struggling in their first year of high school or are at risk of dropping out.

In addition to providing more resources to kids in public schools, leaders also talked about helping those affected by family violence at home.

Half the assaults handled by the Billings Police Department last year were related to domestic abuse, Chief Rich St. John said.

This past weekend alone law enforcement officers put 15 people in jail for family violence, Yellowstone County Sheriff Mike Linder added. Thats up from the norm of about three or four, he said.

City and county leaders discussed working together to set up a Family Justice Center, which would put all the resources for victims of domestic violence in one place, and other ways to curb the problem.

The leaders also brainstormed ways to improve criminal intervention and diversion strategies. Yellowstone County Attorney Scott Twito said identifying who is right for such efforts is critical to successfully interrupting the cycle.

Officials asked Zack Terakedis, the executive director for Substance Abuse Connect, who was in the audience, to talk about the work his organization has been doing to map the local criminal justice and law enforcement system. Terakedis told leaders they need to start acting on information as it comes in.

The metrics have to go beyond the politics of the day, he said. You do have to talk about guns at some point when 280 guns have been stolen out of cars this year.

In addition to improving prevention and intervention, St. John said more officers are needed to curb violent and property crime.

The chief said Billings now has an average of 10 officers on duty per shift. But his research shows the city needs to increase that number to 16 to handle the current caseload. That means he needs to add about 20 officers to the citys police force of 167.

Of course, adding officers wont do much good unless they have somewhere to take the people they arrest. So expanding the overcrowded county-run jail is an important part of the solution, Sheriff Mike Linder said.

The lockup has a capacity of 434, but he said the inmate population has been hovering at around 600.

Of the 120 inmates slated to go to out-of-state detention centers to help reduce overcrowding, 60 have already been moved and the other 60 are waiting to be transferred in the next month or two.

In November, an additional 30 inmates were moved from the county jail to the state prison in Deer Lodge.

Still, Linder said, jails are normally run at about 80% capacity, but thats not what has been happening here or in many other places around the country. He said the county commissioners are expected to move forward on Tuesday with plans to hire an architect to help them look into expanding the lockup.

During the three-hour discussion Monday evening, leaders heard from more than a dozen people who stood up to speak during public comment. Several supported expanding the jail and hiring more cops. Some described how they were affected by gun violence, gang activity and domestic abuse and detailed their frustrations with law enforcement and the criminal justice system.

Tanya Ludwig said she lost her 22-year-old son in 2020 after he got mixed up with gangs. She talked about her experience trying to get help for him before he was killed and urged leaders to listen to parents.

We need to come together as a community and help these kids who are getting into gangs, Ludwig, who serves on the Billings School Board, said. There are people who are convincing our kids that gangs are the way to go when theyre not.

A man who gave only his first name, William, told leaders hes homeless even though he works and urged them to do more for those who are living on the streets.

Wheres my Native American delegates? Wheres Crow? Wheres Cheyenne? Wheres all the people whore supposed to be here with us, to help us, he said. I ask organizations, they tell me their hands are tied. You guys can cut those. Its like slavery, cut them. Help us.

The city plans to have another discussion focused on preventing crime on Jan. 16.
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TEHERAN  Any visitor to the Chinese Culture Week at the University of Tehran would be amazed by the tea, food, Chinese knotting and traditional paper-cutting artworks on display, all produced by Iranian students of Chinese language. "Chinese knots are believed to bring good luck and act as charms that ward off evil spirits," said Zeinab Ghafourian, a 19-year-old sophomore studying Chinese at the Confucius Institute of the University of Tehran, on Nov 28. Chinese Culture Week, which was held at the lobby of the institute from Nov 25 to 29, seeks to introduce Chinese culture to more Iranians. Ghafourian says that one of the reasons she chose to study Chinese is because she has been interested in East Asian cultures since childhood. "In addition, Chinese films have become more popular," she says. More importantly, given Iran's good ties with China, mastering Chinese offers better employment prospects on the Iranian job market compared to other languages, she explains. Mohammadreza Gholamrezaei, another sophomore at the institute that opened in 2009, says he also chose to learn Chinese due to his interest in the country's culture and history. He says that the people of both countries enjoy many cultural commonalities, as they were culturally and economically connected via the Silk Road in the past. "Given China's increasing global influence, as well as its friendly and expanded relations with Iran, learning about the country in an unmediated way is becoming important," says Hamed Vafaei, the Iranian director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Tehran. He adds that students who are studying Chinese at the institute will enter different sectors of society in the future and introduce more Iranians to China. As China being the world's second-largest economy, and one of the most populous countries, and a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, learning Chinese is becoming a necessity, as many people around the world have realized, he says. "In addition, Iran needs to know its counterparts, and one of the most important is China," Vafaei says, adding that Iran and China have built strong political, economic and cultural relations. "Each of the students here is a window onto China, helping the Iranians have a more realistic picture of the country, which will improve bilateral relations," he adds.
Three survivors of sexual abuse on the Northern Cheyenne Reservation on Tuesday had to look at the man accused of sexually abusing them and point him out to a federal jury.

Dean Alan Smith has been charged in U.S. District Court with five federal sex crimes. Smith is a former pastor who was banished from the reservation following charges he molested four girls from the Northern Cheyenne and Arapahoe tribes at his Lame Deer home.

In December 2022, Smith was indicted in U.S. District Court following an FBI investigation. Smith was the pastor at Morning Star Baptist Church, located next door to his house in Lame Deer. It was at this house that Smith and his wife served as foster parents, according to court testimony. Lame Deer children outside of the foster care system occasionally stayed at the Smiths home as well.

Between 2017 and 2020, Smith sexually abused four girls who were staying at his home, some of whom were foster children, court documents allege. The four children disclosed the alleged abuse in 2021 and 2022. In total, Smith has been charged with one count of aggravated sexual abuse, one count of abusive sexual contact and three counts of abusive sexual contact by force and of a child.

Smith has denied all of the allegations, and was released from custody after earlier pleading not guilty. In early January 2023, the Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council passed an ordinance banning Smith from the reservation, Lee Newspapers previously reported.

During the second day of Smiths trial, jurors heard testimony from three people who went into graphic detail of what they saw and felt at the Smiths home. All three had been through Child Protective Services, coming from families struggling with addiction, homelessness, being caught in the criminal justice system, or a combination of all three.

One girl who testified in court Tuesday was 7 years old when she started going to Smiths house. She is now age 14 years old and during her testimony Tuesday was just tall enough that her head reached above the edge of the witness stand while she spoke. Like others who testified against Smith, she referred to him as Pastor Dean.

After roughly three years of being around Smith and sometimes staying over at his home with other children, she said one night she went to bed on a couch in the living room. She got up to comfort another child who was having a nightmare, she testified. She and that child then lied down in Smiths bed, where he allegedly molested her.

Data collection regarding the sexual abuse of Native American girls and woman in the United States are marred by decades of shoddy coordination between tribal, state and federal law enforcement. However, what statistics are available confirm that Indigenous women are physically and sexually assaulted at substantially higher rates than white or Black women, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Another girl testified in court Tuesday that she didnt realize what Smith did to her was wrong until she heard similar stories of sexual abuse from her grandmother and her sister.

One of those who testified in court stayed at Smiths home for about a year-and-a-half as a foster child. Near the end of her time with Smith, she allegedly got out of bed during the night after hearing another girl crying. Inside the crying girls room, she said she saw Smith molesting the girl.

Attorneys defending Smith pointed out contradictions between the survivors statements during forensic interviews, and their testimony in court.

One of the attorneys representing Smith, Shenandoah Roath, asked the witness to Smiths alleged sexual abuse if she knew she was supposed to tell someone after seeing a girl sexually assaulted.

No, she answered. I was a kid.
Harshita Tyagi is a budding journalist on a mission to prove that financial markets and geopolitics can be as entertaining as your favorite TV show
Anil Choudhary The writer, an expert in securities and regulatory laws and co-author of the book Securities Regulation - Primary Market Offerings in India, is Partner at Finsec Law Advisors.
Jinit Parmar is a correspondent based out of Mumbai covering the banking sector, fintechs, NBFCs, insurance and more, tweets @jinitparmar10

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Steve Kiggins, a veteran news editor of nearly three decades, was introduced Wednesday as executive editor of The Missoulian and director of Lee Enterprises statewide network of Montana newsrooms.

As part of an expanded leadership role with The Missoulians parent company, Kiggins also was promoted to director of local news on a seven-person news leadership team, a position that additionally has oversight of news operations in eight other states.

Im thrilled for the opportunity to partner with our editors, reporters and photographers across Montana to grow journalism in a place that is among our top priorities as a company, Kiggins said. Were going to invest in the reporting that wont happen if we dont do it, celebrate local successes, educate, inform, investigate and stand up for the truth.

Kiggins will oversee the editors of Lees newsrooms in Billings, Helena, Butte and Hamilton-Ravalli.

Local news is vital, Kiggins said. The talent and reporting firepower in our five newsrooms is unrivaled in Montana and puts us in a unique position to reach all corners of this big and beautiful state.

Kiggins will relocate to Missoula from Twin Falls, Idaho, where he has served as editor of the Times-News since rejoining Lee Enterprises in November 2022 following 4 years at USA TODAY. He has won national, regional and state reporting awards over nearly three decades in journalism.

Were excited to have Steves strong and dedicated hand guiding these incredibly important Montana newsrooms, Lee Senior News Director Marc Chase said in introducing Kiggins to the Missoulian newsroom Wednesday. Steve is a fierce proponent of watchdog journalism with a foundational understanding of Montana and its communities.

As Times-News editor, Kiggins led a newsroom reorganization to realign reporting positions with local priorities across an eight-county region, revived a local editorial board, oversaw the publication of Spanish-translated stories for the first time in the news organizations 100-plus-year history and helped rebuild community connections.

Im thrilled to announce Steves appointment as a director of local news for Lee Enterprises, as well as executive editor for The Missoulian, said Jason Adrians, Lee Enterprises vice president-local news. I have no doubt that Steve will take a community-first mindset and his passion for best-in-class local news coverage into his new role for the company. Our readers in Missoula and throughout Montana are in terrific hands.

Kiggins was elected to the Idaho Press Club Board of Directors in the spring, just months after arriving in the state. He was recognized by the Idaho Library Association with its Special Services to Libraries award for journalistic excellence in support of statewide libraries in October.

Since June, Kiggins also has supported the Casper Star-Tribune in Wyoming, another Lee newsroom, during its search for an editor.

Prior to his recent time with Lee Enterprises, Kiggins served as national news editor for USA TODAY and was executive editor at The Spectrum & Daily News in St. George, Utah. He worked for Lee Enterprises earlier in his career, both in Casper and Corvallis, Oregon.

Kiggins and his wife, Cassandra, have one daughter, Taidyn, a college freshman.

Former Missoulian managing editor Rob Chaney is transitioning to reporting, coordinating and editing public service journalism and investigative projects on a statewide level.

How the economy is performing in Montana
Hiral Thanawala is a personal finance journalist with 9 years of reporting experience. Based in Mumbai, he covers financial planning, banking and fintech segments from personal finance team for Moneycontrol.
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.
Treasure County Sheriff Will Seastrom pleaded guilty in a Dec. 5 Justice Court hearing to illegally shooting a second buck deer this hunting season and then using his wifes tag to cover up the crime.

In addition to being fined a total of $870, including surcharges, for the two violations, Seastrom also lost his hunting, trapping and fishing privileges in Montana for two years, according to court records.

When contacted, Seastrom said he didnt have time to comment, referring to a statement he gave KTVQ:

To the residents of Treasure County and interested parties,

On November 17th, I made the poor decision while off duty of harvesting another deer and using my wife's deer tag. Ultimately, I was given 2 citations by Montana FWP. Shortly after I reached out to the MT POST Council to self-report and have been working with them on moving through the process. On December 5th, I appeared in court to answer for my mistake and pleaded guilty to both charges. As a result, I was given a fine and loss of hunting, fishing and trapping privileges for the next 24 months. I, like everyone else, am human and make mistakes as well. What matters is what we do after our mistakes. I have been taking the necessary steps to hold myself accountable for my actions and am accepting the consequences as they come.

According to the Fish, Wildlife & Parks citations, Seastrom shot a whitetail buck, then used his wifes general license to tag a mule deer buck he shot.

The meat and head of the mule deer buck was seized, along with the head of the whitetail buck, which was confiscated as evidence to prove the overlimit.

Seastrom was narrowly elected to the sheriffs position in 2022, tallying 177 votes to competitor Justin Sauvageaus 164 votes. Prior to the election, Seastrom and Sauvageau were deputies in the department.

Due to his position in Treasure County, Justice of the Peace Erin Fink recused herself from hearing the case. Instead, Stillwater County Justice of the Peace Lee Cornell oversaw the case.

Treasure County in southeastern Montana has a population of about 750 people spread across about 977 square miles. The county seat is Hysham.
Meghna Mittal MEGHNA MITTAL is Deputy News Editor at Moneycontrol. Meghna has experience across television, print, online and wire media. She has been covering the Indian economy, monetary and fiscal policies, Finance and Trade ministries. She tweets at @Meghnamittal23 Contact: meghna.mittal@nw18.com
A Bismarck man already serving prison time for attempted murder will serve three additional years for crimes authorities say he committed while behind bars.

Jonathan Sanchez, 20, earlier pleaded guilty to three counts of promoting or directing an obscene sexual performance by a minor. The charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

Those charges stem from video calls and text messages Sanchez reportedly sent to a 17-year-old girl while he was in the Burleigh Morton Detention Center between May 25 and Aug. 31 of last year. Sanchez was in custody awaiting trial for his alleged role in a November 2021 shooting in Keelboat Park.

Video calls and text messages sent by inmates are routinely monitored by detention officers.

Burleigh County State's Attorney Julie Lawyer during Wednesday's sentencing hearing on the sex crime charges recommended Sanchez's sentence be served after the one for the 2021 shooting. In that case, Sanchez pleaded guilty to attempted murder, terrorizing and reckless endangerment and was given a 10-year sentence. State law requires he serve 85% of the time because a firearm was used. The current sentence will keep Sanchez behind bars until 2030, according to his attorney, Steve Balaban.

Balaban had requested the sentence on the new charges run simultaneously to Sanchez's present sentence, telling South Central District Judge Bobbi Weiler the victim didn't even want the case prosecuted and that her opinion should carry some weight. He also asked Weiler to lift a no-contact order between Sanchez and the girl, telling the judge the girl, now 18, requested lifting the order.

Lawyer opposed the idea of sentences running at the same time, saying a presentence report determined Sanchez to be at moderate risk of reoffending and that extra prison time would serve in the public interest.

Ultimately, Weiler agreed with Lawyer's recommendation, sentencing Sanchez to three years on each new count. Those sentences will run at the same time, but won't begin until after Sanchez's sentence from the 2021 shooting. Sanchez was also sentenced to five years supervised probation and will have to register as a sex offender.

Authorities said the November 2021 shooting in Keelboat Park was gang-related, and that Sanchez was among people who fired multiple shots at a car in retaliation against a man who wanted to get out of the gang. No one was injured. Sanchez was arrested in Oklahoma in May 2022 in connection with the case.
Bloomberg Editors are members of the Bloomberg Opinion editorial board. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
Diversity and inclusion at the workplace have become a legal reality

Diversity and inclusion laws governing workplaces have come a long way to provide equal opportunities, prevent sexual harassment and longer maternity leaves











A research found that a diverse workforce improves performance by 12 percent and the intent to stay by 20 percent.

Pooja Ramchandani is partner, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication.

Suruchi Kumar is Principal Associate, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
SNM Abdi is an independent journalist specialising in Indias foreign policy and domestic politics. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
The North Dakota Department of Transportation on Thursday will hold the second of three public meetings for a project to replace the Grant Marsh Bridge.

The Interstate 94 bridge over the Missouri River between Mandan and Bismarck was built in 1965. It is reaching the end of its useful life and will need replacement, according to the DOT.

An engineering and feasibility study for I-94 Midway and the bridge are underway. I-94 Midway is the section just across the bridge where I-94 and I-194 meet. I-194 runs between the interstate and the Memorial Highway business loop. Improvements for the I-94 and I-194 roadways and ramps also are being considered.

An initial meeting in June presented the scope of the study and identified concerns about the bridges present state. The bridge and interchanges have undergone repairs since their construction in 1965 but no major improvements have been made.

Construction is anticipated around 2030. There is no cost estimate yet but funding is expected to be covered by the DOT.

The second public input meeting will be from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Thursday at the Morton Mandan Public Library, 600 W. Main Street in Mandan. A presentation will begin at 6 p.m. Meeting materials will be posted at http://www.dot.nd.gov the same day.

The meeting will provide an update on the technical studies completed, and then discuss the project goals established based on needs identified from these investigations, according to Stantec Project Manager Theresa Maahs, a consultant for the project.

The DOT will share several conceptual solutions on improving safety and operations along the corridor.

People who wish to request accommodations should contact Heather Christianson in DOTs Civil Rights Division at 701-328-2978 or civilrights@nd.gov. TTY users may use Relay North Dakota at 711 or 1-800-366-6888.

Public input is sought on project justification and the proposed range of alternatives to be presented at the meeting, according to Maahs. Written statements or comments must be mailed by Dec. 22 to Theresa Maahs, Stantec, 100 Collins Aven., Suite 101, Mandan, ND 58554 or emailed to Theresa.Maahs@stantec.com with Public Input Meeting in the e-mail subject heading.

A prerecorded presentation of the first meeting and other materials are at http://bit.ly/43ljd3D.
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In a stern response to the continuous absence of prosecution lawyers in the 2020 northeast Delhi riots case being investigated by the enforcement directorate (ED), a Delhi court has ordered the personal appearance of the anti-money laundering agency's special director.

The case in question involves former AAP councillor Tahir Hussain, accused of laundering substantial sums through shell or dummy companies to allegedly fuel protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and incite communal riots.

Additional sessions judge Amitabh Rawat expressed dissatisfaction as the investigating officer (IO) failed to attend the hearing and no representative from the prosecution appeared.

The court had previously directed the ED to provide an advance copy of its reply to an application filed by Hussain, a directive that went unfulfilled.

Judge Rawat remarked: "Previously also, there was non-appearance on behalf of the prosecution in the court to file a reply and supply of application/judgments/arguments."

Despite assurances that such incidents would not recur, the judge said that it had happened again. Consequently, the court has ordered the Special Director of the Directorate of Enforcement to appear in person on the next hearing scheduled for 8th December.

Additionally, the court has directed the physical production of Tahir Hussain during the hearing.

Disclaimer: Information, facts or opinions expressed in this news article are presented as sourced from IANS and do not reflect views of Moneylife and hence Moneylife is not responsible or liable for the same. As a source and news provider, IANS is responsible for accuracy, completeness, suitability and validity of any information in this article.
Even as millions of new investors enter the capital market, our investor grievance redress system remains broken. Two recent orders that have gone against the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) expose the frightening state of affairs.

Blame Game with Intermediaries: On 4th December, the securities appellate tribunal (SAT) slapped a penalty of Rs5 lakh on SEBI and rapped it for its lackadaisical approach in failing to unfreeze the demat accounts of the Kirloskar family members when its orders against the family had been set aside over a year ago. (Read: On 4th December, the securities appellate tribunal (SAT) slapped a penalty of Rs5 lakh on SEBI and rapped it for its lackadaisical approach in failing to unfreeze the demat accounts of the Kirloskar family members when its orders against the family had been set aside over a year ago. (Read: SAT Slaps Rs5 Lakh Penalty on SEBI for Noncompliance in Kirloskar Family Case

The details are shocking and date back to October 2020. That is when SEBI had passed an order barring Atul, Rahul, Alpana and Arti Kirloskar as well as Jyotsna Kulkarni from accessing the securities market for six months. The Kirloskars approached SAT which passed an interim order staying SEBIs action  but for an undertaking from the family that they would not sell their holdings in Kirloskar Industries Ltd (KIL). Consequently, their demat accounts were unfrozen barring the KIL shares. Two years later, in October 2022, SAT passed final orders quashing the SEBI action and ordered that the freeze on KIL shares should also be lifted.

Logically, a standard operating procedure (SOP) ought to have been in place over a decade ago to transmit regulatory/judicial/tribunal orders to regulated intermediaries and ensure they are acted upon. After all, SEBI routinely issues and revokes such orders. This case paints a grim picture of how things really work.

The freeze on KIL shares wasnt lifted after the SAT order in October 2022. So the Kirloskars wrote to SEBI and the National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL) on 22nd and 23rd February 2023, respectively, asking for action. NSDL immediately responded, on 24th February, asking for details of the order which were duly provided.

What went on between SEBI and NSDL after this is absolutely bewildering. SEBI claimed that it had written to NSDL on 13 December 2022, asking it to lift the freeze. Why, then, did NSDL fail to act? Believe it or not, it was apparently because the Kirloskars had failed to provide their permanent account numbers (PANs). When know-your-customer (KYC) requirements to open a bank or demat account cannot be completed without a PAN number, does this claim even make sense? Every SEBI order also states the name and PAN of the respondents.

It gets worse. After a reminder from the Kirloskars in March, NSDL wrote to SEBI on 13th March, seeking a directive/guidance on lifting the freeze. SEBI did not respond to this email. The question is: Why not? According to SEBIs deposition before SAT, the email was issued to a wrong person and, hence, remained unattended. So, NSDL ignores SEBIs email of 13 December 2022, and SEBI ignores NDSLs email of 13 March 2023. Is it any surprise that so many emails from ordinary investors meet the same fate?

In August 2023, after waiting for five months, the Kirloskars again reminded NSDL and simultaneously decided to approach SAT for directions to SEBI to unfreeze the shares. SAT, in turn, asked NSDL, which was not a party to the suit, to appear and respond.

SAT says when the Kirloskars approached it on 1 November 2023, all hell broke loose. The demat accounts and the shares of the appellants were defreezed on November 03, 2023. This by itself speaks volumes of the functioning of SEBI in reacting to matters at the last moment.

Although SAT took a dim view of this blame game and slapped a Rs5-lakh penalty on SEBI, this is not a one-off case. In fact, readers would say: if this happens to the Kirloskar family, what happens to ordinary investors who do not have the financial resources for such action?

Well-known securities lawyers tell me that their clients are routinely harassed in a similar manner. What will it take for SEBI to put in place SOPs and when will it begin to hold its officials accountable for such lapses? SEBI is more likely to challenge this order in the Supreme Court (SC) because it routinely challenges orders where there are adverse comments or costs imposed against it, says a lawyer.

The actions of SEBI and NSDL reek of arrogance, incompetence and callous disregard for investor rights; the blame game also shows that the depository, a key market infrastructure institution (MII), cares little about SEBI directives. How else would they dare to argue that a PAN was not provided or emails were sent to an incorrect ID? Remember, this is about official communications between the regulator and one of the largest market infrastructure institutions (MIIs)this is not a retail investor struggling to find the right email ID in SEBI.

If the SAT order does not lead to a root-cause analysis and identify specific responsibility, it raises obvious questions about SEBIs grand plans for the online dispute resolution mechanism announced in September 2023. More about that later.

Recalcitrant Companies: The Khoday Case

Here is another example of how little companies care about regulators.

In August 2023, I wrote about SAT having rapped SEBI for behaving like a post-office after Khoday India Ltd (Khoday) refused to demat the shares of KLA Padmanabhasa, 82, a promoter and director of the company (Read: SAT Confirms That SEBIs SCORES Acts Like a Post-office. What Next for Investor Grievance Redress? ). After SEBI acted like a post-office when he filed a complaint with SCORES, the matter went to SAT, which ordered SEBI to issue a fresh order directing Khoday to rectify the violation of securities law that had occurred.

On 24th August, SEBI wrote to Venkat Subramanyan, the company secretary and compliance officer of Khoday, to dematerialise the shares within 21 days. The company ignored SEBIs order until 6th November, when the chairman and managing director (CMD), KL Swamy, wrote to the regulator that after careful consideration of your letter the board had rejected your request for dematerialisation of shares, in line with a unanimous decision of the board. It also informed SEBI that the company will pursue appropriate legal remedies in connection with the SAT order of 3 August 2023.

This suggests that SEBIs directives and SATs orders are mere words with no enforceability. First, SEBI gave Khoday a long rope. It issued a directive only when ordered by SAT to do so. The company considers this a request, not an order. Unless SEBI goes back to SAT and seeks action for contempt, it is signalling that the regulator is toothless, doesnt matter how empowered it appears on paper.

Advocate Joby Mathew, who appeared for Khoday, had previously worked with SEBIs legal department. When asked, he admitted to being disappointed with SEBIs failure to enforce its directions and says that his client may have to approach SAT or the registrar of companies (RoC) for compliance.



Khodays registrar and transfer agent (RTA) is equally unconcerned about SEBIs directive. Advocate Mathew says the RTA wants Mr Padmanabhasa to file and produce a first information report (FIR) to seek duplicate shares, although the company secretary had previously confirmed that physical shares are in Khodays possession.

As in the Kirloskar case, this is a wealthy investor who has the luxury of being able to fight legal battles. Imagine what happens to ordinary investors caught in such crossfire. They simply lose rights to their hard-earned investment.

As advocate Mathew says, The recourse available to investors for safeguarding their investments, for a credible dispute resolution and for recovery of money lost to fraud is shrinking.

He also asks, What is the point of collecting money in the Investor Protection Fund if it does not benefit investors?

This is a question that I have been asking ever since such investor funds have been set up by the ministry of corporate affairs (MCA) and every financial regulator.

PR Ramesh, who also practices securities law after a long stint with SEBI, tells me that his clients regularly face issues because SEBI has failed to convey instructions to banks, depositories and other intermediaries in line with SAT or court orders. While emphasising the need for SOPs, he suggests that the delay in transmitting instructions is often deliberatebecause SEBI may be contemplating an appeal before the apex court.

He says, In some cases even where SEBI has instructed Depositories, the Depository Participants (DPs) don't comply. We have cases where we had to issue legal notices claiming damages from the DPs.

Meanwhile, SEBI has announced an online dispute resolution (ODR) platform that requires intermediaries, such as merchant bankers, debenture trustees, registrar to an issue, share transfer agents and a KYC registration agency to redress investor grievances within 21 days.

If SEBI cannot enforce its own directives, isnt this now-postponed online redress rather cosmetic? Indeed, the less consequential complaints will always be resolved and allow SEBI to claim great success by citing overall numbers. For instance, on 13th November, it put out data to say that its SCORES platform had successfully resolved 3,533 complaints out of 5,083 actionable complaints, with an average resolution time of 36 days.

But throwing data cannot hide the fact that it appears toothless in the face of defiance by powerful intermediaries, so what can one expect when it receives directives from those in power?
Napoleon is a 2023 epic historical drama film directed and produced by Ridley Scott and written by David Scarpa. Based on the story of Napoleon Bonaparte, primarily depicting the French leader's rise to power as well as his relationship with Empress Josephine, the film stars Joaquin Phoenix as Napoleon and Vanessa Kirby as Josephine.

Following the completion of his film The Last Duel in October 2020, Scott announced Napoleon as his next project, with Phoenix cast in the titular role. Following delays and recastings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including Kirby replacing Jodie Comer, filming began in February 2022 in England, lasting several months. In addition to writer David Scarpa, frequent Scott collaborators included cinematographer Dariusz Wolski and editor Claire Simpson.

Napoleon premiered at Salle Pleyel in Paris on November 14, 2023, and was released in the United States and the United Kingdom on November 22, 2023, by Columbia Pictures and Apple Original Films, through Sony Pictures Releasing, before streaming on Apple TV+ at a later date. The film has grossed $136 million worldwide and received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for the battle sequences and performances, though it was criticized for its historical inaccuracies; reviews by French critics were mostly negative.

Plot [ edit ]

In 1793, amid the French Revolution, young army officer Napoleon Bonaparte watches Queen Marie Antoinette beheaded by the guillotine. Later that year, Revolutionary leader Paul Barras has Napoleon manage the Siege of Toulon; he successfully storms the city and repels the British ships with artillery. After Maximilien Robespierre is deposed and executed at the end of the Reign of Terror, French leaders, including Napoleon, attempt to restore stability. Again employing artillery, Napoleon suppresses the royalist insurrection on 13 Vendemiaire in 1795.

Napoleon woos aristocratic widow Josephine de Beauharnais and the two eventually marry. Despite their vigorous sex life, they bear no children. In Egypt, he prevails again at the Battle of the Pyramids in 1798, but rushes home when he hears Josephine has an almost 10-year younger lover, Hippolyte Charles. The Directory criticises him for abandoning his troops, but he condemns them for their poor leadership of France and, alongside several collaborators such as Talleyrand, Fouche, Sieyes and Ducos, overthrows them in a coup and becomes First Consul.

Napoleon is crowned Emperor of the French by the pope in 1804, during which he audaciously puts the crown on his own head. Foreign Minister Talleyrand suggests to Austria an alliance, though the Austrians dismiss the idea. A year later, Napoleon outmanoeuvres and defeats the Austrians and Russians at the Battle of Austerlitz, forcing them to retreat over frozen lakes before bombarding the ice and drowning them. Afterwards, he invites Austrian Emperor Francis II for winewhich Russian Tsar Alexander I declines to attendand tells Francis that since he did not totally destroy their armies, he expects the latter to be grateful.

Napoleon's mother has him impregnate a mistress, proving that Josephine is infertile. He divorces her in 1810, publicly slapping her in the face when she initially refuses to read her portion of the decree, but the two remain on good terms and continue exchanging friendly letters. Napoleon marries Marie Louise of Austria, who bears a son one year later.

In 1812, Napoleon invades Russia after Alexander reneges on a peace treaty with France. He prevails, despite bloody guerrilla resistance by Cossack forces, at the Battle of Borodino, but finds Moscow empty and later set aflame. Napoleon retreats during the winter to France, having lost about half a million men. In 1814, the Coalition force Napoleon's abdication and exile him to Elba.

In 1815, upon hearing that Josephine is unwell, Napoleon escapes the island and returns to power in France. She, having been forced into reclusion at the Chateau de Malmaison, dies before he arrives. King Louis XVIII sends the Fifth Regiment to stop Napoleon, but he charms them into joining him.

At the Battle of Waterloo in June, Napoleon, having amassed more troops, confronts the British army under the Duke of Wellington. French cavalry charges are repulsed by British infantry squares, and a desperate Napoleon urges his remaining soldiers forward, but this advance is decimated by re-formed lines of enemy infantry. The forces of Prussian Marshal Blucher arrive to reinforce Wellington, and the French are broken. As Napoleon retreats, he salutes Wellington.

Napoleon is exiled, this time to the island of Saint Helena in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, and is seen bantering with children, writing his memoirs that would become a worldwide best-seller, and presenting to his listeners a version of history where he is always right.

Napoleon dies in 1821, hearing Josephine beckon him to meet her again. An epilogue notes that roughly 3 million people died in his wars.
Moneylife Digital Team 05 December 2023

KEI Industries Limited (KEI) is one of the leading manufacturers of wires & cables which had transformed itself, over the years, into a mid-sized cables company with a global footprint exporting its products to more than 45...
On Wednesday, 1930 stocks advanced, 1824 declined and 141 remained unchanged, with an advance decline ratio of 1.05 on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), indicating positive closing of stocks in broader markets. The trend of the major indices on Wednesdays trading is given in the table below.

On NSE, 217 securities advanced and closed at a new 52-week high whereas 10 securities sank to close at their new 52-week lows. In sectoral indices, Nifty Media, Nifty IT and Nifty Energy were among the biggest gainers. Nifty Pharma and Nifty Auto were among the biggest losers.

Indoco Remedies (+3.37%) received tentative US FDA ANDA nod for Canagliflozin Tablet that is used to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Government will spend an additional Rs58,000 crore on food, fertliser, LPG subsidies this fiscal.

Zydus Life (+0.22%) received final US FDA nod for Methylene Blue Injection, a drug that is used to treat a condition called methemoglobinemia.

Wipro Consumer Care and Lighting, part of Wipro Enterprises, announced the acquisition of three soap brands  Jo, Doy, and Bacter Shield  from Mumbai-based VVF India, to expand its personal care segment.

Sterling & Wilson will raise up to Rs1,500 crore via QIP.

HCL Tech (+0.91%) extended partnership with Sweden-based Husqvarna group for another 5-years for IT & digital transformation.

Easy Trip Planners(-0.90%) signed strategic partnership with VodafoneIdea to extend propositions around travel & international roaming.

Lupin (-1.17%) received US FDA ANDA nod for Varenicline Tablets which are used as an aid to smoking cessation treatment.

Hero Motorcorp (-1.20%) entered in to a pact with Ather Energy for EV charging network.

Bandhan Bank (-0.63%) will focus as recovery expected soon for the bank's credit guarantee fund.

Centrum Capital (+0.35%) KMP sold net 30,416 shares through open market. Tide Water Oil Company (India) (+2.38%) Promoter bought net 763,734 shares through open market. Cyient KMP (+1.27%) sold net 5,000 shares through open market. Parag Milk Foods (+7.74%) insiders bought net 270,000 shares through open market. Salzer Electronics (+1.03%) Promoter bought net 2,650 shares through open market. Eclerx Services (-1.07%) insiders bought net 2,418 shares through open market.

The top gainers and top losers of the major indices are given in the table below:

The closing values of the major Asian indices are given in the table below:
Holding State Bank of India (SBI) and SBI Life Insurance Co Ltd (SBI Life) guilty of unfair trade practice and deficiency in service in rejecting the death insurance claim of a borrower of a home loan, the national consumer disputes redressal commission (NCDRC) directed them to settle the claim in full in terms of the related policy and pay compensation of Rs8,000. While setting aside the order of Punjab state consumer disputes redressal commission, NCDRC affirmed the order passed by the Gurdaspur district consumer disputes redressal forum.

In an order, the NCDRC bench of Subhash Chandra (presiding member) says, "The respondents (SBI and SBI Life) have failed to discharge the burden of proving willful concealment of material information by the deceased life assured (DLA) at the time of obtaining the policy and have failed to bring on record any evidence of the treating doctor by way of evidence or affidavit. The order of the state commission is therefore liable to be set aside since it is based on surmise and presumption."

The case is related to a Rs9.63 lakh home loan (including insurance premium) obtained by Gurdaspur-based Harjit Kaur from SBI. While obtaining the home loan of Rs9 lakh, she was made a member of the SBI Life Dhanraksha Plus LPPT policy after paying a premium of Rs63,445. However, after a brief illness, on 10 June 2011, she expired. Her husband and nominee, Sarabjit Singh, filed a claim with SBI Life. However, the insurance company rejected the claim, stating that the policy was obtained by suppressing material evidence about Ms Kaur's pre-existing illnesses.

Mr Singh filed a complaint before the district forum. The district forum allowed the complaint on the grounds that the policy was a requirement under the loan, had not been sought by Ms Kaur of her own volition, and that the policy was issued after due examination.

The district forum says, "...while partly allowing the present complaint, we hold the SBI and SBI Life as guilty of unfair trade practice and deficiency in service and thus order them to settle the impugned claim in full in terms of the related policy (i.e., liquidate the housing loan outstanding) besides to pay Rs5,000 as compensation and another Rs3,000 as cost of litigation to the complainant within 30 days."

The state commission, however, upheld the appeal of SBI and SBI Life on the grounds that a policy of insurance obtained based on a false declaration of good health was a violation of 'utmost good faith'. It set aside the order of the district forum.

Mr Singh then approached NCDRC. The counsel for Mr Singh submitted that the order passed by the state commission order did not set out any valid and legal reasons and did not consider the fact that Ms Kaur had not opted for the policy but had to necessarily take it on account of her having taken a house building loan from SBI under a proposer master policy.

Further, he says, "The state commission erred in concluding that Ms Kaur was suffering from diabetes and kidney disease for four years without any affidavit or evidence from the doctor concerned and was therefore based on presumption."

The counsel for SBI contended that Ms Kaur submitted all the required papers to SBI Life, including a declaration of good health. "Ms Kaur, the deceased, was not maintaining good health and in fact, was suffering from chronic ailments like diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease before the date of subscribing to the policy," the counsel stated.

SBI Life submitted that the loan was granted on 21 April 2010 and Ms Kaur expired on 1 June 2011. The counsel for SBI Life says, "While processing the claim, SBI Life found that the deceased had submitted the wrong declaration regarding her health; hence, it rejected the claim. Non-disclosure of material information is fatal to the doctrine of utmost good faith and thus, the contract of insurance is vitiated."

After hearing all parties and perusing documents available on record, NCDRC observed that it is evident that Ms Kaur did not approach SBI Life for a policy. "It was, rather, a policy that was required to be taken as part of the house building loan that was sanctioned by SBI to her. The policy is a master policy of SBI which had admittedly granted a loan to the Ms Kaur. There is no evidence on record that she approached SBI Life for a life insurance policy."

"This is also evidenced by the fact that SBI was the proposer. The policy was approved by SBI Life based on the proposal and after its due diligence with regard to the health status of DLA. The repudiation of the claim is based on the basis of an investigation by SBI Life that Ms Kaur suffered from pre-existing diseases which had not been disclosed at the time of obtaining the policy based on a doctor's certificate issued by the hospital where she was admitted prior to her death," it added.

Mr Chandra from NCDRC also noted that SBI and SBI Life had not examined the doctor. "There is also no affidavit on record and no evidence showing previous medical treatment has been brought on the record," he says, adding, "this contention of SBI and SBI Life cannot be considered."

As regards violation of uberrimae fides or the principle of utmost good faith, NCDRC says this case needs consideration in view of the fact that the policy was not of Ms Kaur's volition but rather was imposed upon her as a condition of the house building loan sanctioned by SBI.

"This is evidenced by the fact that the proposer was SBI and was not applied for by either the DLA (Ms Kaur) or by any other agent of the insurance company. There is nothing on the record that the DLA had approached SBI Life or a policy or that it filled in the declaration of good health in which there was concealment of pre-existing illnesses. All the paperwork was done by SBI as the 'proposer'," the bench says.

While allowing the petition filed by Mr Singh, NCDRC set aside the order passed by the state commission and affirmed the district forum's order.

(Revision Petition No642 of 2017 Date: 4 December 2023)
I beg you McDonald's, please let the machines stay in function this summer. If I go through the drive-thru and am hit with the heart-shattering news, Im gonna need more than a break and a KitKat to ease my pain.
FBI Director Christopher Wray went to Capitol Hill today, warning Congress members of the "devastating" consequences should they fail to reauthorize Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), a warrantless surveillance program it has habitually abused to spy on Americans.

However, some Democrats and Republicans say they want to reform Section 702, so that the FBI must obtain a warrant before searching for information about Americans and others inside the U.S. FBI Director Christopher Wray and Biden administration officials argue that this would be legally unnecessary and could impede the FBI's ability to quickly respond to national security threats, reports ABC News.

Why is Wray saying a provision to require a warrant when spying on U.S. citizens is "unnecessary?" Because, whether or not Congress renews the act, the FBI will go on its merry way, illegally eavesdropping on Americans with zero repercussions. In other words, Wray was just making a courtesy visit.
A few months ago Los Angeles Magazine published a denoument to a plagiarism scandal featuring professor David Agus, who found himself in the unfortunate position of having to explain why his latest book was full of plagiarism. The answer: my ghostwriter did it. [via]

Agus says he dictated the substance of the book; Loberg added the color. She assured him that she had run the books through plagiarism software multiple times. She assured all her authors the same thing. It was in her contract. But the L.A. Times found that The Book of Animal Secrets, which argues that species such as pigeons and pigs can help humans deal with conditions like memory loss and chronic pain, had passages yanked from theNew York Times, National Geographic,scientific journals, college websites, Wikipedia, and a South African safari company's "Ten Craziest Facts You Should Know About a Giraffe." (Some of which aren't even crazy, such as number one: They're tall.)

A constant theme of the article is But The Plagiarism Checker Said It Was Fine. The Plagiarism Checker turns out to be "The Secret to Creating Truly Original Content," an old article by Loberg. Her journey from "Use the plagiarism checker to preclude even the appearance of plagiarism" to "If the plagiarism checker doesn't see it, I'll get away with it" is a beautiful one! Just because we're all writing for machines now doesn't mean humans ain't reading it.

Agus is posed as her victim, which he is, along with other clients of Loberg's such as David Perlmutter and Sanjay Gupta. But all this swiftly-extruded pop science shit is theirs no matter who cooked it for them, so they get to eat it.



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The seal of the Office of the Attorney General is flanked by flags, as seen Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, at the ITC Building in Tamuning.
An attorney in Erie, Pennsylvania may be suspended from practicing law for being high on cocaine during a client's court hearing. The lawyer, Nathaniel Strasser, admitted to be on blow in court and apparently claimed in a disciplinary hearing that the drug improves his performance on the job.

According to a brief filed by the state's Office of Disciplinary Counsel that investigates attorney misconduct, Strasser's "refusal to express remorse for appearing at a hearing on a client's behalf while under the influence of cocaine  and his suggestion throughout the disciplinary hearing in this matter that cocaine enhances his performance as an attorney  presents an unacceptable risk that Respondent (Strasser) will repeat this intolerable misconduct."

A police officer at Strasser's client's hearing noticed that Strasser was exhibiting "very hyperactive, fidgety" behavior and had dilated pupils, so he reported him.

The disciplinary counsel is calling for a minimum one-year suspension. Next step is for the panel holding the hearing to make a disciplinary recommendation to the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania.

From Go Erie:
Joseph David Emerson, 44, an Alaska Airlines pilot who was riding in the cockpit "jump seat" and is accused of trying to disable the engines of a Horizon Air jet, appears in Multnomah County court in Portland, Oregon, U.S. October 24, 2023.
Robert F Kennedy Jr. announces his entry to the 2024 presidential race as an independent candidate in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. October 9, 2023.
Recently, the third batch of 39 'high-speed rail tourist destinations in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region' were officially announced, forming a total of 100 high-speed rail tourist destinations in the YRD region. In the future, these destinations will be connected in a network, offering more cross-regional and themed tourism routes and distinctive cultural and tourism products. By combining high-speed rail with tourism, innovative formats and promotional methods aim to attract domestic and international tourists to explore the YRD region by high-speed rail, striving to create a model for high-speed rail tourism in China. With the official operation of the Shanghai-Nanjing Yangtze Riverside High-speed Railway on September 28, more new railway lines in the YRD region have been opened. This not only provides convenience for people's travel, but also optimizes the path for integrated cultural and tourism development in the YRD region. Currently, high-speed rail has changed the spatial and temporal distance between various cities in the YRD. Over 20 high-speed rail lines and more than 200 high-speed rail stations have formed a fast passenger transportation network. Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui have formed a high-speed rail metropolitan area with travel times ranging from 0.5 to 3 hours, centered around Shanghai. According to the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) for the development of the YRD railway, by 2025, the 'Yangtze River Delta on the Tracks' will be basically completed. The length of high-speed rail in the YRD will exceed 9,200 kilometers, and the main channels of the national 'Eight Vertical and Eight Horizontal' high-speed rail network will be fully connected in the YRD, with the branch line network operating smoothly. By then, the landscape of the YRD high-speed rail tourist destinations will be completely renewed, and cultural and tourism products will be extensively upgraded to enter a high-quality era. The third batch of 'high-speed rail tourist destinations in the Yangtze River Delta region' includes: Jiangsu Province: Qixia District in Nanjing, Liangxi District in Wuxi, Pizhou City in Xuzhou, Wujin District in Changzhou, Kunshan City in Suzhou, Wujiang District in Suzhou, Hai'an City in Nantong, Lianshui County in Huaian, Funing County in Yancheng, Ecological Science and Technology New City in Yangzhou, Runzhou District in Zhenjiang, Hailing District in Taizhou, and Siyang County in Suqian. Zhejiang Province: Yuhang District in Hangzhou, Yuyao City in Ningbo, Rui'an City in Wenzhou, Yueqing City in Wenzhou, Tongxiang City in Jiaxing, Deqing County in Huzhou, Nanxun District in Huzhou, Shengzhou City in Shaoxing, Yongkang City in Jinhua, Kecheng District in Quzhou, Sanmen County in Taizhou, Longquan City in Lishui, and Qingtian County in Lishui. Anhui Province: Baohe District in Hefei, Wuwei City in Wuhu, Yijiang District in Wuhu, Shouxian County in Huainan, Tongguan District in Tongling, Taihu County in Anqing, Tongcheng City in Anqing, Shexian County in Huangshan, Yu'an District in Lu'an, Guangde City in Xuancheng, Ningguo City in Xuancheng, Qingyang County in Chizhou, and Qiaocheng District in Bozhou. Source: anhuinews.com
Since July, residents of the Italian village Vastogirardi have been the victim of a serial tire-slasher. In some cases, the culprit cut the tires of the same vehicle more than once.

"It has been very puzzling, as we couldn't work out who could possibly be going around cutting tyres, or what the motive would be," deputy mayor Remo Scocchera said. "It is a peaceful village  we knew it couldn't be anyone from outside as we are always aware of any suspicious movements."

Some villagers wondered whether the rash of slashes was the result of a neighborhood feud or even mafia-related intimidation. After four more reports in quick succession, police went on undercover patrols and eventually mounted surveillance cameras around the vicinity of the crimes.

Turns out, video evidence revealed the serial tire-slasher's identity. He's named Billy. And he's a dog.

"Vets said that Billy's behaviour could be explained by a severe case of gingivitis, which made him gnaw at the tyres in order to relieve the pain," reports The Guardian. "Police are carrying out more checks before officially sanctioning Billy, whose owner will reportedly be responsible for compensating the car owners."

(via Coast to Coast)
Ousted former speaker Kevin McCarthy is now ousting himself, announcing he will retire from Congress by the end of this month.

"I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways," said the Republican Rep. from California in an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal today. "I know my work is only getting started."

This comes a day after Republican Rep. Patrick T. McHenry (NC) announced he'd be retiring, not this month but by the end of his term. It also comes less than a week after Republican Rep. George Santos (NY) was expelled.

It was obvious the stewing McCarthy was deeply unhappy when he sharply elbowed Rep. Tim Burchett (TN)  who was one of the eight Republicans who voted to oust him  in the kidneys last month. But the bottled-up lawmaker tried to sound upbeat in his announcement this morning, saying, "I never could have imagined the journey when I first threw my hat into the ring. I go knowing I left it all on the fieldas always, with a smile on my face. And looking back, I wouldn't have had it any other way."

From the The Washington Post:

Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), the former House speaker who was ousted from his position in October in a revolt by hard-right members, will not seek reelection to his congressional seat and will retire from Congress at the end of this month, he announced Wednesday. McCarthy's retirement will bring to an end a 17-year House career in which he rose quickly through the ranks of Republican leadership, culminating with his stint as speaker. His ouster marked the first time in history that the House voted to remove its leader, a move that threw the chamber into a period of instability. McCarthy's downfall was precipitated by a procedure to remove him as speaker  a "motion to vacate" initiated by Rep. Matt Gaetz, a far-right Florida Republican and McCarthy's antagonist. McCarthy's detractors accused him of not keeping promises made during a lengthy fight to secure the speaker's gavel in January. Some McCarthy loyalists on Wednesday expressed disappointment with their former leader's retirement, with some blaming the eight Republicans who voted to oust him in October. In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) warned that, if House Republicans lose the majority, it would be the fault of those eight. "I can assure you Republican voters didn't give us the majority to crash the ship," Greene said, adding: "Hopefully no one dies."
Amador County Sheriff's Office View Photo

Calaveras County, CA  A night chase that began in Amador County ended in Calaveras County after nearly a 20-mile pursuit left the suspect high and dry.

An Amador Sheriffs County Deputy while patrolling the area of Red Corral Road, off Highway 26 in Pioneer, on Friday, December 1, at around 10 p.m., attempted to pull a vehicle over. Instead, the driver hit the gas in an obvious attempt to evade, stated sheriffs officials. They added, The suspect led the deputy on a pursuit spanning approximately 19 miles through Calaveras County, concluding only when the suspects vehicle ran out of gas in rural Mokelumne Hill.

The suspect, 39-year-old Jason Andahl of Angels Camp, then jumped out of the vehicle and made a run for it, but was quickly handcuffed by pursuing deputies with any additional resisting arrest. A record check revealed Andahl was on California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation parole. His vehicle was towed, and Andahl faces felony charges of evading a peace officer.
California High Speed Rail View Photo

Sonora, CA  The State of California has been notified by the Biden Administration that a combined $6 billion will benefit a pair of high-speed rail efforts in the state.

Governor Gavin Newsom is praising the announcement, noting that $3 billion is going to the construction of the California High Speed Rail project in the Central Valley, with an end goal of connecting the train between San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Newsom says, California is delivering on the first 220-mph, electric high-speed rail project in the nation. This show of support from the Biden-Harris Administration is a vote of confidence in todays vision and comes at a critical turning point, providing the project new momentum.

The project has slowed in recent years, but the Governor sent a letter to President Biden in October requesting funding to help finish the initial segment as part of the states clean energy initiatives.

The initial bonds for the project were approved by voters in 2008 and the first segment is now anticipated to cost around $35 billion.

In addition, $3 billion is going to a Brightline project that will connect Los Angeles to Las Vegas, with 80% of the projects construction taking place in California.

The funding is part of $66 billion approved for rail from the 2021 $1 trillion federal infrastructure package. $22 billion was allocated to Amtrak and $36 billion went to competitive grant proposals.
James Walker, a Miami-based maritime lawyer who also runs the website Cruise Law News, recently set up a Go Fund Me to help the family of 30-year-old MSC Cruises crew member Vishnu Vardhan Cheelam, who went overboard on the MSC Seascape in mid-November as the ship was sailing from Miami on a Caribbean cruise. Walker is taking on the case pro bono and is donating 100% of the funds to Cheelam's family.

In the Go Fund Me, Walker provides some context:

Vishnu had spoken to his family shortly before he disappeared at sea. He was in good spirits and was looking forward to returning to India where his family was building a new home. He was close to his his mother, Laxmi, and sisters, Divya and Rani. He was the "man of the family," having lost his father when he was a small child, and financially supported his mother. After learning that their son and brother was lost overboard over two weeks ago, Vishu's mother and sisters have not received any information from MSC Cruises. The cruise line refuses to provide the family with a copy of his employment contract and collective bargaining agreement (CBA) or return his personal effects from his cabin. MSC has not paid his outstanding wages and $1,500 in cash was taken from Vishnu's cabin. MSC also refuses to provide the family with a copy of CCTV images of Vishnu or provide statements from eye witnesses explaining why this long-term ship employee went overboard. Vishnu's family is emotionally devasted by Vishnu's disappearance not to mention the shoddy way that MSC has responded to this tragedy. The construction of the family home has stopped while the family faces an uncertain future. They have been provided with no answers to what happened to their beloved family member, no wages or work benefits and not even the dignity of receiving Vishnu's modest personal effects from his cabin on the cruise ship.

According to Walker, the US Coast Guard sent two rescue vessels as well as a helicopter to search for Cheelam, but he could not be found.

In a recent article on the Cruise Law News website, Walker explains that only one of the cruise ships in MSC's fleetthe Meravigliahas an automatic man over board (MOB) system. The ship that Cheelam worked had no such lifesaving equipment, despite the Swiss company's promise back in 2017 that it would be installing MOB systems in all of its ships. Walker explains:

There is no indication that the MSC Seascape has a state-of-the-art man overboard (MOB) system which would automatically detect, via motion detection, radar and infra-red technology, when someone goes over the rails and can track the person in the water even at night. Without such a system, it is exceedingly difficult to search for a person in the water, especially at night. . . Back in 2017, MSC Cruises indicated that it developed an "intelligent video capturing and analysis system" in collaboration with "security technology experts, Bosch and Hewlett Packard Enterprise." The Swiss-based cruise line announced that it has tested the new man overboard system on the company's newest ship which debuted in June (2017). MSC reported that "through over 25,000 hours of video analysis, extensive software testing and continuous algorithmic updates, the system has now reached a confirmed accuracy level of 97%."

However, MSC Cruises only installed the lifesaving equipment on one of its ships:

In July 2019, a cruise guest in her 40's went overboard from the MSC Meraviglia but was promptly rescued after the auto MOB alerted the crew that she went overboard. Unfortunately, over six years later MSC has still not installed this successful automatic MOB system on any of its twenty-one other cruise ships, including the MSC Seascape from which this latest crew member disappeared.

Here's the link if you want to donate to the Go Fund Me.
A recent study out of Japan shows wasabi, the spicy ground rhizome that takes sushi from a meal and turns it into an event also offers a "really substantial" boost to short- and long-term memory.

I love wasabi. It makes meals a lot more fun. I also enjoy clearing my sinuses, having lived so long with allergies. Now researcher from Tohoku University shows that wasabi wasabi is even better! Their study shows measurable results in increasing memory retention.

CBS News:
CCC joins legal battle over recalled legislators candidacy

The Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has entered the fray of court proceedings in a case where Sengezo Tshabangu is seeking the removal of its legislators from contesting in the upcoming by-elections under the partys banner.

Tshabangu, who claims to be the CCC interim secretary-general, recalled 15 Members of Parliament (MPs) in October, citing their alleged departure from the party. In response, the recalled lawmakers filed an urgent chamber application, which was subsequently dismissed by the High Court. The court ruled that they failed to provide sufficient evidence of their continued membership in the CCC and noted that their failure to include the CCC as a respondent was fatal to their case.

Following this ruling, the recalled legislators filed an appeal, but it was struck off the roll by the Supreme Court due to incorrect filing procedures.

Meanwhile, Tshabangu filed another application arguing that the recalled legislators should not have been allowed to submit their nomination papers for the by-election under the CCC. The hearing for this matter was initially scheduled for Tuesday but was postponed to the following day (today) after the CCC sought to join the proceedings.

The reason why this matter was not heard is because there is a party that also calls itself CCC which had asked for a joinder and was officially joined through a court order and will now be respondent number 25.

The bone of contention is the issue of double candidates. There are candidates who were expelled by the party who then went back to Zec and filed papers in the name of CCC, said Nqobani Sithole representing Tshabangu.

The CCCs involvement in the case adds another layer of complexity to an already contentious legal battle. As the proceedings unfold, the outcome will have significant implications for the by-elections and the future political landscape in Zimbabwe.

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Yves here. A new book, The Big Con: How the Consulting Industry Weakens our Businesses, Infantilizes our Governments and Warps our Economies, Mariana Mazzucato and Rosie Collington, proves a thesis I have long believed but didnt have enough evidence to argue: that management consultants set out to create client dependence, which results in them becoming less rather than more capable. I joked back when I was at McKinsey that the business model was to invade at the fingertip and go for the brain.

At least as this post describes the book, most of the examples come from disastrous assignments for governments. That makes sense because they are far more visible than private sector train wrecks created or made worse by big consultants. For instance, how many know that one of the most disastrous mergers of all time, Time Warner buying AOL, was not just a brain child of McKinsey, and the firm was so eager to see it get done that it pushed the board to approve it on five separate occasions? As you might infer, the board managed to say no only four times.

Although I cant prove it, I also hold big management consulting firms, particularly McKinsey, responsible for the spread and ultimately pervasive use of slide presentations, which dumb down thinking and analysis. When I came from Wall Street, the professional firm content Goldman consumed were memos, sometimes legal opinions, and of course deal documents from law firms, all in text for avoidance of doubt. I was shocked that McKinsey could get away with a slide deck as a finished client product, when it was inherently incomplete (additional discussion was inevitably necessary) and no one would be sure what it said in six months. I soon realized that was the point.

By Ong Kar Jin and Jomo Kwame Sundaram, former UN Assistant Secretary General for Economic Development. Originally published at Jomos website

Greater government reliance on consulting companies has greatly enriched them while also undermining state capacities, capabilities, national economies, progress, governance and legitimacy.

The Big Con

Over recent decades, policy consultancy has gradually gained more public attention. With the COVID-19 pandemic, consultancies were paid billions, with meagre results, leaving even less for millions of others desperately struggling to cope.

In The Big Con: How the Consulting Industry Weakens our Businesses, Infantilizes our Governments and Warps our Economies, Mariana Mazzucato and Rosie Collington explain how consultancies persuade governments and corporations to use their services, with problematic consequences.

Many argue that governments and corporations need such expertise as they cannot be expected to be good at everything, let alone familiar with the latest trends and challenges. Others argue consultancies provide much-needed second opinions, especially when organisations have lost their capacities and capabilities.

The Big Con argues their clients rarely get what they most need. Heavy dependence on consultancies also compromises accountability and retards needed innovation. Consequently, governments allow their capacities and capabilities to deteriorate, with consultancy firms profitably filling the gap.

Voluntary Dependency

The Big Con provides many examples of problems arising from becoming overly reliant on expensive contracts. These include McKinseys role in Frances bungled vaccine programme, and Deloittes in the UKs botched Test and Trace programme.

Consultancy firms have taken over many public services in France. The trend began in 2007 when Nicolas Sarkozy became president, promising to make the French state cost-efficient. His government gave 250 million euros ($269m) in contracts to management consultancies like McKinsey, Deloitte and the Boston Consultancy Group (BCG).

Under Emmanuel Macron, consultancy firms received 2.4 billion euros ($2.6bn) in government contracts in 2018. They have become involved in various public services, including Frances COVID-19 vaccine rollout and controversial pension reforms.

The UK spends more on consultants than all countries other than the US. Rather than have its National Health Service involved in its test-and-trace programme, ministers and civil servants turned to consultancies. At one point, over 1m was spent on consultants daily, with some senior advisers billing over 6,000 per diem!

One consultant confessed, It just seemed like every project had loads of wandering Deloitte people  the sheer volume of them that were around created the situation of these zombie emails just arriving all the time  taking our attention away from actual work.

As its bankruptcy proceedings started in 2016, Puerto Rico hired McKinsey to advise a US federal oversight board. The team, led by recent US Ivy League graduates, was to prepare an aspirational vision for the US island territory. Its recommendations included privatising state-owned enterprises, rightsizing job cuts, and reducing social, especially labour protection.

While consultancies are often touted as involving experienced experts, most client governments, especially from developing countries, often host young graduates of reputable institutions, mainly adept at using the latest jargon and making impressive presentations.

Losing Capacities and Capabilities

Most governments have not tried hard to enhance their capacities and capabilities, e.g., to develop their public information and communications (ICT) or digital technology expertise. Instead, they outsource, depending on consultancies, even for sensitive strategic policy matters.

A book review suggests, One also cannot help but gain the impression of the big consultancies as vultures, feasting on calamitous challenges like Covid-19, Brexit and climate change. Meanwhile, they pose as disinterested and expert helping hands.

Management consultants are increasingly widely used by both governments and corporations, giving the impression of expert authority for mooted reforms. As a British minister noted, governments have been infantilised by relying on management consultants.

The Big Con notes, The more governments and businesses outsource, the less they know how to do. Consultancies have eroded government and business capacities and capabilities. The presumption seems to be that clever young consultants, coming from abroad, know much better than experienced employees, and knowledge can be purchased, as if off a shelf.

So why have governments accepted all this? As the books title implies, successful consulting requires gaining customers confidence, e.g., persuading them that consultants have the answers, regardless of whether this is true.

Some decision-makers also simply want to be able to pass on responsibility for policy solutions, as it is generally politically easier to blame an external party, e.g., consultants, than to take responsibility. This is especially useful if policy recommendations are likely to be unpopular, e.g., involving downsizing or cuts.

Growing Con

The Big Con notes that a con gains momentum with seeming success. The authors argue the bigger the consultancies and their scope of work, the weaker governments become. As governments lose confidence in their own abilities, consultancies become the default solution.

Some governments have become so taken with consulting that they have set up internal consultancy arms, e.g., Malaysia set up PEMANDU, PADU and other entities for this purpose. This is part of a wider trend of increasing corporatisation of public institutions to pursue efficiency.

Perhaps urged by major donors, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has championed entrepreneurship, impact investing and accelerating social enterprises in recent years. It now has labs, team leads, and strategic innovation units, all spouting corporate buzzwords.

This turn reflects growing faith in what Daniel Greene terms the access doctrine, i.e., the belief that poverty and other social problems can be simply overcome by new technologies and technical skills, regardless of their complexities. Policymakers increasingly embrace and proselytise such technical fixes, ensuring consultants status as the cults new high priests.

Threatened by fiscal austerity and criticisms of being obsolete, public institutions increasingly embrace the access doctrine. They shift resources to foster startups or accelerating innovation to retrieve legitimacy and secure much-needed resources as public spending is threatened by fiscal austerity.

By redefining poverty as a problem of technology access, consultants reframe problems as seemingly more manageable for staff, politicians, other decision-makers, donors and others. The technological fix fetish has provided a powerful rationale for cutting social protections, replacing them with upskilling programmes and entrepreneurship boot camps.

Neoliberal Consultancies

With the counter-revolution against Keynesian macroeconomics and development economics, policymakers embraced ostensibly market and private solutions from the 1980s.

As state-owned enterprises were privatised, the public sector was expected to function like businesses. Governments embraced performance-related pay and cost-benefit analyses to promote private sector values in the public realm.

After Margaret Thatcher became UK prime minister in 1979, her party chairman declared: The management ethos must run right through our national life  private and public companies, civil service, nationalised industries, local government, the National Health Service.

Such policies were mimicked in many developing countries, either for access to concessional finance or voluntarily, as the Washington Consensus gained hegemony in policymaking circles. The consultancy cults osmosis into public institutions in recent decades as well as its more novel recent iterations are their consequences.

The book ends with a call to change the role of consultancies, arguing they have caused the public sector to become less capable and innovative. Investing in public sector expertise will be necessary to retrieve the space voluntarily ceded to the big con.
Yves here. This post is a devastating critique of the US regime for licensing government-funded intellectual property in the pharmaceutical arena. It shows that it amounts to a drug company enrichment scheme.

I must confess that due to being very much behind today I have not read a paper KLG links late in his post which discusses NIH versus private sector spending on what wound up being new drug approvals. I am highly confident the facts are worse than this paper suggests. One of my good friends was a biomedical engineer who then got a law degree. Her first job was at the NIH. She wrote the first Federal language of any sort on the licensing of intellectual property and was very proud of the fact that 20+ year later, 80% of her language was still in the licenses.

She later worked in the legal department of one of the the big drug companies and eventually wound up at an intellectual property boutique that specialized in FDA work. Many of her partners were former FDA commissioners.

She pointed out that as of then (later 2000s) about 88% of so-called new drug applications were actually for minor reformulations to extend patent life (think a pill you take every 8 hours now reworked to be a one-a-day version). Due to the state of Google I cant get any current findings.

So the new drug approvals are overwhelmingly NOT for bona fide new drugs, but drug-company profiteering. And that also explains why, as the linked paper shows, they spend so little on this research.

By KLG, who has held research and academic positions in three US medical schools since 1995 and is currently Professor of Biochemistry and Associate Dean. He has performed and directed research on protein structure, function, and evolution; cell adhesion and motility; the mechanism of viral fusion proteins; and assembly of the vertebrate heart. He has served on national review panels of both public and private funding agencies, and his research and that of his students has been funded by the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, and National Institutes of Health.

The Patent and Trademark Law Amendments Act was passed by Congress in late 1980 and signed into law by our first neoliberal President, Jimmy Carter, on 12 December 1980, the last day of the lame duck session of Congress after the election of Ronald Reagan five weeks earlier. This legislation is commonly known as the Bayh-Dole Act of 1980, having been sponsored by Senators Birch Bayh of Indiana and Robert Dole of Kansas. Much has been written in the last 40 years about this law, which can be described as reversing decades of government policy by allowing scientists, universities, and small businesses to patent and profit from discoveries they made through federally funded research.

Naturally, the business press was agog with enthusiasm. The Economist called Bayh-Dole inspired, and likely to reverse Americas precipitous slide into industrial irrelevance. Although this law is now often thought to have been intended to remove the shackles holding back American science, this was not the original justification. The Oil Crisis of 1973 due to the embargo by OPEC following the Yom Kippur War of October 1973 demonstrated that the economy was in dire straits [1]. The Bayh-Dole Act was passed to rescue American industry from its doldrums. This it did not do, but it did transform biomedical research. And while it is not ever valid to generalize from ones own necessarily limited experience, I was an interested party at the beginning of the Bayh-Dole Era, and I have spent my professional working life observing the changes from before Bayh-Dole to after Bayh-Dole.

Perhaps these changes were inevitable. Whether they have been good for biomedical science remains a question [2]. My initial reaction to the passage of Bayh-Dole, which fell on deaf ears, was something to the effect of, Great! This means we (meaning all of us) will pay for everything at least twice: First when the research is funded by NIH, and second when Big Pharma and Big Medicine take advantage of patents based on a foundation they did not build. For those who want to dig deeper in the biomedical literature, the link to Bayh-Dole in the PubMed database is here. The legal analyses (paywall) are interesting, but beyond our scope for now.

The basic question about the Bayh-Dole Act of 1980 is this: Has it been good for science, particularly biomedical science? That, of course, depends on the meaning of good. Two recent papers address this: Which is more important, NIH or the Private (Corporate) Sector? in the progress of biomedical science.

Let us begin with The Relative Contributions of NIH and Private Sector Funding to the Approval of New Biopharmaceuticals (Schulthess et al., 2023, open access). This paper does not address all of biomedical science, which would be impossible, but it does cover what most people think of when they consider the topic, i.e., the products of Big Pharma and Big Medicine that are used to treat disease. This is especially relevant during the continuing pandemic. The Objectives of this study were to determine the relative significance of public (NIH) and corporate funding for obtaining authorization to use a biopharmaceutical on patients. The Methods examined research projects linked to 23,230 NIH grants awarded in the year 2000 (23 years ago). These were audited to account for patents that led to clinical development and potential FDA approval. 8,126 patents led to 41 possible therapies that were tested in clinical trials that led to 18 FDA approvals:

23,320 grants  8,126 patents 41 potential therapeutics 18 FDA approvals.

The Results showed that NIH funding for the 18 FDA-approved therapies totaled $0.670 billion and corporate funding totaled $44.3 billion. And to quote exactly: A logistic regression relating the levels of public and corporate funding to the probability of FDA approval indicates a positive and significant relationship between corporate sector funding and the likelihood of FDA approval (p  0.0004). The relationship between corporate funding and the likelihood of FDA approval is found to be negative and not statistically significant. Take-home message:

18 approved therapies: For every $1.00 from NIH, corporate funding totaled $66.12.

The Conclusion of this paper is that the development of basic discoveries requires substantial additional investments, partnerships, and the shouldering of financial risk by the private sector if therapies are to materialize as FDA-approved medicine. Of particular interest to this research group is the following: Our finding of a potentially negative relationship between public funding and the likelihood that a therapy receives FDA approval requires additional study.

This represents a lot of work. Their tables and figures are impressive enough, and their results demonstrate that in the United States public funding is not the primary engine responsible for the emergence of new and innovative therapies. More importantly, this issue is directly relevant to current regulatory debatesover Federal March-in Rights, the right for the US Government to reclaim IP that was funded by the public and licensed to a private firm, if the Federal agency determines that such action is necessary to alleviate health or safety needs which are not reasonably satisfied (their capitalization). I suppose this is true. But it should also be noted that the federal government has been exceedingly reluctant to use its march-in rights to claw back anything since Bayh-Dole became law. As of 2015this had been considered four times and each time the government folded. Attempts to use a version of march-in rights during COVID-19 were unsuccessful due to militant exercise of intellectual property rights by the usual suspects, as shown by Alexander Zaitchik in Owning the Sun (reviewed earlier this year here).

The statistical significance of their data is impressive, on the surface. Their logistic regression in Table 4 (p  0.0004)shows that the more money a company spends, the higher the likelihood that a biopharmaceutical will make it to market [3]. Yes. And a logistic regression also shows that the more a medical student studies, the more likely s/he is to do well on an exam (e.g., cardiology) given by the National Board of Medical Examiners.

What about the finding that the more NIH money spent, the less likely that an approved therapy will result? This result is said to be consistent with a different study of the San Diego area, which is home to the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, the Scripps Research Institute, and a host of other similar high-powered research organizations [4]. During the time covered, Greater San Diego received $3.2 billion in NIH grants. Yes, this is a lot of money, but it was spread over 10 years among many different institutions. This supporting paper uses data for firms with an Initial Public Offering (IPO) between 1990 and 2000, a very long time ago in the world of Biotech. It analyzes how the probability of success for these firms depend on various firms characteristics(with)the probability of success (being) positively influenced by the number of employees and the IPO amount. Yes, the bigger the company and the more money it has, it is more likely to be successful, all other things being equal.

Finally, in the words of Schulthess et al. 2023 (reformatted and very lightly edited):

While each sector (public and corporate) makes important contributions, the findings of this study refute the false maxim that the public sector is solely responsible for all new innovations . This conclusion is consistent with the findings published in peer-reviewed scientific journals over the past several decades.

. This conclusion is consistent with the findings published in peer-reviewed scientific journals over the past several decades. Yet, many policymakers, journalists, and academicians continue to espouse the position that questions, or even denies, the role of the private sector in the discovery and development of innovative therapies.

in the discovery and development of innovative therapies. Such continued skepticism in the context of recent health policy debates around such issues as March-in Rights are a distraction for patients and their families desperately looking for curative therapies.

for patients and their families desperately looking for curative therapies. It is hoped that this studys objective examination of private versus public sector contributions to biopharmaceutical research and innovation will serve to better inform both current and future policy debates.

The first point reveals the primary motivation and expectation of this research. Absolutely no one believes that the public sector is solely responsible for all new innovations. Second, while questions are warranted, primarily about the foundations of the work of Big Pharma and Big Medicine, no one denies the role of the corporate sector in the discovery and development of innovative therapies. Third, this is a distraction for very few, but could it be that Big Pharma is hearing footsteps regarding march-in rights that have not yet been used to any significant extent? Fourth, regarding objectivity, these days the second thing (or the first) to read after the abstract in a peer-reviewed scientific paper is the acknowledgments/funding section. I have no doubt that the data in this paper have been collected and analyzed objectively, in research that was supported by funding from the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), Amgen Inc., The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis International AG, Sanofi S.A., and Pfizer Inc.

So, is there any way to tease apart the relative contributions of public and corporate support for advances in biomedical science? Objectively, Schulthess et al. (2023) shows that for the cases studied corporate funding dwarfs public funding for novel biopharmaceuticals. This is not completely unexpected, but it also depends on how research funding is applied. Another recent paper addresses this from a different perspective: NIH funding for patents that contribute to market exclusivity of drugs approved 2010-2019 and the public interest protections of Bayh-Dole (Ledley and Galkina Cleary, 2023). Schulthess et al. (2023) considered individual grants in a single year (2000, or more than one scientific generation ago). Ledley and Galkina Cleary (2023) considers publications, which are likely to be a better target than grants. Publications are certainly more visible and they frequently, as they should, go beyond the specific aims of the grants that funded them.

NIH funded basic or applied research related to all 356 drugs approved during the 10 years beginning in 2010. 313 (88%) of these drugs were covered by at least one patent. The literature included 350,000 publications supported by 341,000 thousand grant years and $164 billion in NIH project year costs (17% applied/83% basic). This research produced 22,360 patents and 119 of these were cited as protecting 34 of 313 drugs. These patents came from 769 project years at a cost of $950M. Overall, only 1.5% of total NIH funding for applied research and 0.38% of funding for basic research were associated with patents.

On the surface this shows that very little of NIH funding for research that contributes to patents that provide market exclusivity and are subjectto the Bayh-Dole Act that promote the public interest in practical applications of the research, reasonable, use and pricing, and a return on this public sector investment. This suggests that the Bayh-Dole Act is limited in its ability to protect the public interest in the pharmaceutical innovations driven by NIH-funded research. Or it could be taken to mean that the corporate sector does essentially all the hard work of producing drugs and other interventions that prevent, treat, or cure disease, which is the preferred conclusion of Schulthess et al. (2023).

Previous studies have shown that 55% of the 1,453 drugs approved through 2014 were first synthesized in academic institutions. From 1965-1992, 76% of drugs with the greatest impact on medical practice were supported by public funding, 54% of the basic science milestones for the most transformative drugs from 1992 -2016 were achieved in the public sector. Overall, this publicly supported research has increased the efficiency of drug development. Still, there is a disparity between the demonstrated role of NIH funding in pharmaceutical innovation and the limited representation of NIH-funded patents in DrugPatentWatch (subscription required).

Potential explanations include the following:

NIH funding produces substantially more published research on the targets of drugs approved 2010-2019 than published applied research on the drugs themselves . This is as it should be. Without this research pharmacology would remain largely a popgun approach to the treatment of disease [5]. For example, imatinib(Gleevec, an early blockbuster cancer drug in the new wave) was developed by Nicholas Lydon and coworkers at Ciba-Geigy (later merged with Sandoz to form Novartis). But without the identification of the targets that imatinib needed to hit to be effective, nothing would have ever come of this. Thousands of scientists have identified protein phosphorylation as the fundamental key to cellular regulation. The target of imatinib is the mutant BCR-ABL protein kinase formed by a gene fusion present on the Philadelphia Chromosome (discovered in 1959 at what became the Fox Chase Cancer Center). BCR-ABL leads to chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), and other cancers. Without the known target, no Gleevec and no inhibition of ABL. None of these antecedents of Gleevec was patented, nor was anyone likely to even consider this (which is another difference between the development of biology and chemistry as disciplines). Patents, not science, are both the subject and object of Bayh-Dole.

. This is as it should be. Without this research pharmacology would remain largely a popgun approach to the treatment of disease [5]. For example, imatinib(Gleevec, an early blockbuster cancer drug in the new wave) was developed by Nicholas Lydon and coworkers at Ciba-Geigy (later merged with Sandoz to form Novartis). But without the identification of the targets that imatinib needed to hit to be effective, nothing would have ever come of this. Thousands of scientists have identified protein phosphorylation as the fundamental key to cellular regulation. The target of imatinib is the mutant BCR-ABL protein kinase formed by a gene fusion present on the Philadelphia Chromosome (discovered in 1959 at what became the Fox Chase Cancer Center). BCR-ABL leads to chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), and other cancers. Without the known target, no Gleevec and no inhibition of ABL. None of these antecedents of Gleevec was patented, nor was anyone likely to even consider this (which is another difference between the development of biology and chemistry as disciplines). Patents, not science, are both the subject and object of Bayh-Dole. Much of the relevant NIH-supported research that leads to novel pharmaceuticals is in the form of Program Project awards and other career development programs. These are not usually directed at any one particular drug target and seldom at a specific drug. Patents are not the objective of these funding mechanisms.

A residual, inherent tension still exists between the academic search for new knowledge and its open dissemination and keeping patentable secrets.

These points represent the kernel of truth: NIH support (and similar mechanisms in other countries with large biomedical research establishments) for research forms the foundation of biomedical science. Without this foundation, Big Pharma and Little Pharma would remain without the actual targets they need to function as going concerns.

In keeping with recognition of the support for research discussed here, data used in this study were obtained from DrugPatentWatch. A previous version of this research was also presented in Government as the First Investor in Biopharmaceutical Innovation: Evidence from New Drug Approvals 2010-2019. Working Paper Series 133, Institute for New Economic Thinking. 2020 (revised 2021). This paper can be found here at SSRN. No other interested parties are listed in Ledley and Galkina Cleary (2023).

Another recent paper by Ledley, Galkina Cleary et al. includes some of the material discussed here: Comparison of Research Spending on New Drug Approvals by the National Institutes of Health vs the Pharmaceutical Industry, 2010-2019 (2023, open access). The data in this paper are clear and to the point, with what I view as a reasonable use of conventional statistics:

The results of this cross-sectional study found that NIH investment in drugs approved from 2010 to 2019 was not less than investment by the pharmaceutical industry, with comparable accounting for basic and applied research, failed clinical trials, and cost of capital or discount rates. The relative scale of NIH and industry investment may provide a cost basis for calibrating the balance of social and private returns from investments in pharmaceutical innovation.

The key is the final sentence: Both NIH (including similar funding agencies) and industry are needed for pharmaceutical innovation, with NIH providing the foundation. Recognition of this will be essential if a balance between biomedical science as a public good and as a profit-making industry in the form of Biomedicine is to be maintained. Schulthess et al. (2023) does not recognize this. The papers from Galkina Cleary and associates do recognize the roles of public and corporate science, and their results are more recent and more focused.

Nevertheless, questions remain. Bayh-Dole was enacted to reenergize American industry, which it did not really do. But it did change how biomedical research is practiced, while producing thousands of startups as institutions tried to follow in the footsteps of MIT in technology transfer. Most of these have disappeared without a trace. A case study of this change is Epogen, which is the trade name for the cytokine erythropoietin. This small protein stimulates red blood cell production and it became a patented blockbuster for Amgen, which along with Biogen and Genentech, was one of the few large Biotech firms established just before Bayh-Dole.

But erythropoietin (not yet Epogen) was not discovered by scientists at Amgen. Instead, erythropoietin was identified and purified to homogeneity (pdf) in 1977 by Eugene Goldwassers research laboratory at the University of Chicago. This was pre-recombinant DNA/cloning and 40+ years ago a protein laboriously purified was proof of its existence. My first task in the lab was something very similar, so this paper brings back memories of techniques of a former world. Goldwassers research was supported by the Energy Research and Development Administration (precursor of the Department of Energy) and United States Public Health Service Grant HL-16005-03. HL indicates the grant was from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of NIH and 03 signifies the third year of the grant; online data for 1977 are not available but Goldwassers NIH funding from 1985-1998 is listed here, including grants on erythropoietin.

According to this rather pro forma case study, under the auspices of Bayh-Dole Amgen promised to pay Eugene Goldwasser (and presumably the University of Chicago) 1% of the sales revenue as the technology fee if Epogen were ever offered for sale as a pharmaceutical. Epogen was offered for sale, but according to other sources Professor Goldwasser was never paid [6]. Cloning and producing active erythropoietin, a small but complex protein coated with sugars, was a technical tour de force at the time but it would not have happened in the absence of antecedent generous public support for the discovery and characterization of erythropoietin. Similar case studies could be repeated for other products.

Thus, we paid for Epogen twice, many times over (US sales from 1992 to 2017, #6: $55.63 billion). This was undoubtedly worth it, for Epogen is an essential biopharmaceutical to those suffering from anemia caused by kidney failure and cancer [7]. But at what price? And the cost is not only in money, as illustrated perhaps by this story this week and something else covered here previously. Are scientific priority, patent eligibility, and riches dreamed of maladaptive incentives? Yes. Bayh-Dole cannot answer them, but the questions remain: whose intellectual property and at what cost to whom?

Notes

[1] Stayin Alive: The 1970s and the Last Days of the Working Class by Jefferson Cowie describes the economy of the 1970s from the correct perspective in my view. Suffice it to say the economy was a complete mess during most of the 1970s, even before neoliberalism became ascendant after the Nixon backlash mid-term election of 1974 that put so many technocrats in Congress; these politicians were known later as Atari Democrats.

[2] Biology as a scientific discipline developed independently of industrial influence. Although early anatomists, physiologists, and microbiologists came from medicine, the healing arts remained a discipline apart through most of the 19th century. This has held true until recently. Chemistry as a discipline was developed by the chemical industry, primarily first in Germany and later in Great Britain and the United States (but not only in these countries). See, for example, Mauve: How One Man Invented a Color That Changed the World. Some comparative history has been done on how this difference affected the trajectories of biology and chemistry, where they intersected, complemented one another, and diverged. I have not kept up with recent research, but this should be fertile field.

[3] Without going into detail, this p-value indicates there is a very small chance that the data are wrong based on a conventional statistical analysis.

[4] The major Biotech hubs in the US are Boston, Seattle, San Francisco, and San Diego, with a few scattered islands elsewhere (e.g., Amgen in Thousand Oaks, California). Several areas have tried to become Biotech hubs with little success. The Scripps Florida Campus has been taken over by the University of Florida.

[5] A favorite quote from Sir William Osler, the founder of modern medical education at Johns Hopkins, if only medical students would listen more often: You cannot become a competent surgeon without a full knowledge of human anatomy and physiology, and the physician without physiology and biochemistry flounders along in aimless fashion, never able to gain any accurate conception of disease, practicing a sort of popgun pharmacy, hitting the malady and again the patientusually not knowing which. Without the target, biopharmaceuticals do not exist.

[6] Eugene Goldwasser was a biochemist of the old school, a contemporary of many who taught me. He provided Amgen with purified erythropoietin, probably a precious milligram or less. Long story short: Amgen scientists determined the partial amino acid sequence of Goldwassers erythropoietin and used this information to clone the protein using early recombinant DNA techniques that were primitive, expensive, demanding, and time consuming. My first clones were produced using the same pre-PCR techniques. Thus, the clone was theirs, even though they could not have done the work without Goldwassers protein. As he noted later, 1% of 1% of the sales of Epogen would have funded his laboratory at a high level for a very long time. Chicago did not pursue a patent and Dr. Goldwasser did not follow up, but he was proud his discovery provided treatment to so many.

[7] EPO is also on the list of substances banned by WADA.
Yves here. It is not uncommon to see political theorists contend that democracy and capitalism are in conflict. However, that claim is often not well substantiated. Here, Richard Wolff provides a tidy, well reasoned case.

It may be a corollary of Wolffs argument, that capitalism can deliver more democratic outcomes when class differences are not great and class mobility exists, particularly institutions such as the City College of New York in its heyday, where successful poor students could and did not just become members of the middle class, but not infrequently, positions of greater social/political prominence. When I was a kid, blue collar kids would play with the kids of professionals and well-off business owners. Admittedly, there was a strata of a true elite in big cities that were also power centers, but it was relatively small and its power exercised largely behind the scenes.

By Richard D. Wolff, professor of economics emeritus at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and a visiting professor in the Graduate Program in International Affairs of the New School University, in New York. Wolffs weekly show, Economic Update, is syndicated by more than 100 radio stations and goes to 55 million TV receivers via Free Speech TV. His three recent books with Democracy at Work are The Sickness Is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us From Pandemics or Itself, Understanding Socialism, and Understanding Marxism, the latter of which is now available in a newly released 2021 hardcover edition with a new introduction by the author. Produced by Economy for All</a, a project of the Independent Media Institute

Democracy is incompatible with class-divided economic systems. Masters rule in slavery, lords in feudalism, and employers in capitalism. Whatever forms of government (including representative-electoral) coexist with class-divided economic systems, the hard reality is that one class rules the other. The revolutionaries who overthrew other systems to establish capitalism sometimes meant and intended to install a real democracy, but that did not happen. Real democracyone person, one vote, full participation, and majority rulewould have enabled larger employee classes to rule smaller capitalist classes. Instead, capitalist employers used their economic positions (hiring/firing employees, selling outputs, receiving/distributing profits) to preclude real democracy. What democracy did survive was merely formal. In place of real democracy, capitalists used their wealth and power to secure capitalist class rule. They did that first and foremost inside capitalist enterprises where employers functioned as autocrats unaccountable to the mass of their employees. From that base, employers as a class purchased or otherwise dominated politics via electoral or other systems.

Socialism as a critical movement, before and after the 1917 revolution in Russia, targeted the absence of real democracy in capitalism. Socialisms remarkable global spread over the last three centuries attests to the wisdom of having stressed that target. Capitalisms employee class came to harbor deep resentment toward its employer class. Shifting circumstances determined how conscious that resentment became, how explicit its expressions, and how varied its forms.

A certain irony of history made the absence of real democracy in socialist countries an ongoing target of many socialists in those countries. More than a few socialists commented on the shared problem of that absence in both capitalist and socialist countries notwithstanding other differences between them. The question thus arose: why would the otherwise different capitalist and socialist systems of the late 20th and early 21st centuries display quite similar formal democracies (apparatuses of voting) and equally similar absences of real democracy? Socialists developed answers that entailed a significant socialist self-criticism.

Those answers and self-criticism flowed from a recognition that in both capitalist and socialist systems, business enterprises (factories, offices, stores) were organized overwhelmingly around the dichotomy of employer and employee. This was and remains true of private enterprises, whether more or less state-regulated, and likewise of state-owned-and-operated business enterprises. In parallel fashion, much the same was true in slave economic systems: the master-slave organization of productive activities prevailed in both private and state enterprises. Similarly, the lord-serf organization of production prevailed in both state (royal) and private (vassal) feudal enterprises.

Real democracy proved equally incompatible with slave, feudal, capitalist, and socialist systems in so far as the socialist systems retained the prevailing employer-employee structure of their enterprises. In fact, the three kinds of modern socialist systems all display that employer-employee structure. Western European social democracies do so because they leave most production in the hands of private capitalist enterprises that were always built on employer-employee foundations. Moreover, when they established and operated public or state-owned-and-operated enterprises, they copied those employer-employee structures.

Soviet industrieschiefly publicly owned and operatedpositioned state officials as employers in relation to employees. Finally, the Peoples Republic of China comprises a hybrid form of socialism combining a mix of both of the other forms, a roughly equal split of private and state enterprises. Chinas hybrid socialism shares the employer/employee organizational structure in both its state and private enterprises. All three kinds of socialismsocial democratic, Soviet, and Chinesebroke in many important ways from the capitalism that preceded them. But they did not break from the basic employer-employee organization of enterprises, that relationship which Marxs Capital pinpoints as the source of exploitation, that appropriation by employers of the surplus produced by employees.

All three kinds of modern socialism remain crucially incomplete in terms of having not yet gone beyond the employer-employee organization of production. It follows that socialists self-criticismthat actually existing socialist systems fell short of their standard of real democracymay be linked crucially to those systems retention of the employer-employee relationship at their economic core.

Employers and employees are, together, defined by a specific class structure. They are its poles, the two possible positions individuals hold in production. They emerged with capitalism out of the disintegrations of previous systems. Such prior systems included (1) feudalism and its economic structures two positions of lord and serf, and (2) slavery and its economic structures two positions of master and slave. Because masters, lords, and employers are usually few relative to the numbers of slaves, serfs, and employees, and because they live off the surplus extracted from those slaves, serfs, and employees, they cannot allow a real democracy as it would directly threaten their class positions and privileges. In actually existing socialist societies, real democracys incompatibility with class-divided economic systems is encountered yet again.

Because this time it is many socialists who make the encounter, they ask why modern socialism, a social movement critical of capitalisms lack of real democracy, would itself merit a parallel criticism. Why have socialist experiments to date produced a self-criticism focused on their inability to create and maintain authentic democratic systems??

The answer lies in the employer-employee relationship. It always was the key obstacle to real democracy, the cause and literally the definition of those classes whose oppositional existence precludes real democracy. Those socialists who faced the problem of real democracy articulated it as a definition of/demand for classlessness. Without classes, no ruling class. If the employees become, collectively, their own employer, the capitalist class opposition disappears. One group or community replaces two. Absent a class-divided economic system, efforts to bring real democracy to a societys economy and politics could anticipate success.

Socialist self-criticism can enable a solution to real democracys absence by advocating for a transition from an employer/employee-based economic system to one based on workers self-directed enterprises (or worker coops in common language). The incomplete socialisms constructed in the 20th century need to be upgraded by making that transition. That would get those socialisms nearer to completion, nearer to real democracy, and further from capitalist systems whose undying commitment to the employer-employee relationship precludes them from ever getting closer to real democracy.
Have you ever seen an armadillo up-close? I hadn't until I recently discovered these videos of an adorable three-banded armadillo named Wilson who lives at the San Antonio Zoo. He's quite a cutie, with his little digging claws, tiny snout, cool flexible armor, and silly whisps of fur.

Here he is being a "snack vacuum," getting scratches, zooming here and there, and walking around sniffing. And while he's tiny and looks like a baby, he's actually quite full grownthis summer, he celebrated his eleventh birthday!

National Geographic provides some information about the southern three-banded armadillo:

The southern three-banded armadillo (Tolypeutes matacus) is indigenous to central South America, ranging between Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia. Like most armadillos, the southern three-banded is covered in plates of leathery armor that protect it from predators. But what makes this armadillo special is its ability to roll completely into a ball. The neighboring Brazilian three-banded armadillo is the only other armadillo with this adaptation. The adaptation works well in the wildonly jaguars, alligators, and pumas are powerful enough to punch through the protective plates. Habitat loss is a challenge for many species, including the southern three-banded armadillo. During the 20th century, the rich Rio de la Plata river basin underwent agricultural development; the habitat changed from a flood plain to cultivated fields of crops such as soy and sorghum. Today, the southern three-banded armadillo is classified as a near threatened species.

For more videos of Wilson, follow San Antonio Zoo.

Cute Creature Rating: 7/10
NATOs Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana welcomed Shalva Papuashvili, Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia, to the NATO Headquarters on Wednesday (6 December 2023). Mr Papuashvili attended a meeting of the NATO-Georgia Commission to discuss Georgias domestic reforms and challenges to regional security.

The Deputy Secretary General stressed the importance of the NATO-Georgia political dialogue and practical cooperation, including the NATO-Georgia Commission and the Substantial NATO-Georgia Package designed to strengthen Georgias ability to defend itself and advance its preparation for membership. He underscored the importance of Georgias continued efforts towards comprehensive reforms. Allied Leaders adopted a clear message, when they met in Vilnius last summer: to advance its Euro-Atlantic aspirations, Georgia must make progress on reforms, including democratic reforms, and make the best use of the Annual National Programme.

The Deputy Secretary General expressed his appreciation for Georgias substantial contributions to NATO, including its very significant troop contributions, and for the participation of boarding teams of the Georgian Coast Guard in Operation Sea Guardian. Mr Geoana also welcomed Georgias recent progress on its Euro-Atlantic path. I want to congratulate you on the European Commissions recommendation to grant Georgia the status of a candidate country. This is a momentous development, he said.

Mr Papuashvili was accompanied by the Chairman of the Defence and Security Committee of Georgias Parliament, Irakli Beraia, the Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, Nikoloz Samkharadze, and Ketevan Turazashvili, an opposition Member of Parliament from the Political Group Citizens.
Ancient Scythian artifacts returned to Ukraine after decade-long legal battle with Russia

More than a thousand artifacts from the civilization of the ancient Scythians from the Allard Pierson Museum in Amsterdam have been returned to Ukraine after a nearly decade-long dispute over ownership of the antiques.

The Scythians were an ancient group of nomadic pastoralists centered around the territory of modern-day Ukraine and southwestern Russia and whose culture flourished from about 800 B.C. to about 300 A.D. Many artifacts have been found in the region and dating to the time of the Scythians, including burial offerings made out of gold like jewelry, weapons, richly decorated cups and other elaborate and luxurious grave goods. (Related: 8 Remarkable gold and silver artifacts discovered in 2022.)

The National Museum of History of Ukraine in Kyiv reported that the Allard Pierson Museum returned 565 items and 2,694 kilograms (5,940 pounds) worth of cultural property, including ancient sculptures, Chinese lacquer boxes and jewelry from the Scythians and the Sarmatians  another ancient people closely related to the Scythians and who lived around southern Ukraine.

The collection of historical treasures includes a solid gold Scythian helmet from the 4th century B.C. and a two-pound golden neck ornament from the 2nd century A.D. from the Allard Pierson Museum's "Crimea: Gold and Secrets of the Black Sea" exhibition.

"After almost 10 years of court hearings, artifacts from four Crimean museums that were presented at the exhibition have returned to Ukraine," said the National Museum of History of Ukraine in a statement.

The dispute over the ownership of the artifacts intensified when Russia annexed Crimea in 2014. With Russia now recognizing Crimea as its sovereign territory, museums within Russian-occupied Crimea started vying for the return of the Scythian treasures to them.

Museums in Russian-occupied Crimea argued that the Dutch had to return the pieces to the Crimean Peninsula due to the terms of the loan agreement.

Following a protracted legal battle, the Supreme Court of the Netherlands ruled that the artifacts rightfully belonged to Ukraine. The Dutch court based its decision on the fact that the Netherlands and most of the world does not recognize the Russian-annexed Republic of Crimea and still believes that the territory belongs to Ukraine.

"Although the museum pieces originate from Crimea and can therefore also be regarded as Crimean heritage, they are part of the cultural heritage of Ukraine," the court stated in its ruling.

For its part, the National Museum of History of Ukraine has stated that it intends to hold on to the artifacts until Crimea is freed from Russian occupation.

Ukraine celebrates return of Scythian gold as symbolic victory over Russia

Ukraine has used the successful reclamation of the artifacts as a symbolic victory in the country's decade-long struggle with Russia.

"We returned home not just valuables that were taken out of Crimea in 2013, but a part of our history," said Vasyl Malyuk, head of Ukraine's main intelligence service, which coordinated the shipment from the Netherlands. "For us, as well as for our country in general, this case is symbolic. It shows that Ukraine never gives up what belongs to it by law."

Malyuk added that Ukraine would have all of the territories it claims and Russia currently occupies "returned."

"We will fight for our people, our values and our history," he said.

For its part, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov continued to insist that the artifacts are the property of Russia, stating in a quote given to state news agency TASS that the artifacts "belong to Crimea and should be there."

Similarly, the Russian-installed Head of Crimea Sergey Aksyonov, in comments made on Telegram, said that the artifacts should be returned by "achieving the goals of the special military operation" in Ukraine, suggesting that the conquest and occupation of Kyiv is necessary.

Follow Artifacts.news for more news about archaeological discoveries.

Watch the video below to know more about 10 of the most powerful ancient weapons.

This video is from the TopGunsWorld channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Archaeologists discover boat-shaped mound that could be NOAH'S ARK in Turkish ruins.

Archaeologists discover painting depicting an "ancestor" of modern-day Italian pizza in the ancient city of Pompeii.

MUST WATCH VIDEO: 33 years of history that led up to Russia's invasion of Ukraine that you won't see taught in U.S. schools nor hear anywhere in the Western mockingbird media.

Researchers uncover Bronze Age skeletons with "horsemanship syndrome" in Europe.

Humans created bows and arrows in Europe 54,000 years ago, new archaeological study reveals.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

LiveScience.com

Reuters.com

TheGuardian.com

Brighteon.com
Bill Gates says Africans need GMO seeds, chickens to survive climate change

This year's Africa Climate Summit, which was held in Nairobi, Kenya, from Sept. 4-6, featured the usual lineup of billionaire eugenicists pushing for a biotechnological takeover of Africa, one of them being Bill Gates

Marketed using the slogan "Driving Green Growth & Climate Finance Solutions for Africa and the World," the summit featured plenty of commentary from Gates about his various "climate crisis" investments in an apparently pre-recorded speech, which you can watch below.

"I started work on climate change over two decades," Gates says. "When I visited Africa, I saw two things: First was how climate is already affecting agricultural output ... I also saw the energy shortage."

Gates would go on to praise the research and innovation efforts aimed at converting Africa to "green" energy, or what he personally calls "breakthrough energy," this also being the name of an organization he created "to help with climate mitigation."

According to reports, Breakthrough Energy's mission involves accelerating the "unprecedented technological transformation" that Gates says is needed to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions to "net zero" by the year 2050.

One example of a green energy "success" in Africa that Gates spoke about in the video involved a Kenyan farmer named "Mary" whom Gates talked with personally about "how the new seeds and new approaches were helping her."

"She had drought-tolerant seeds that made a very big difference," Gates claims. "She also had chickens that were bred so they could be more heat tolerant."

(Related: Last summer, Gates and the World Health Organization [WHO] announced plans to send millions of malaria "vaccines" to Africa, even though the jabs were shown to cause an increase in disease.)

Breakthrough Institute says Gates' "green" pipe dreams are unrealistic

Many are wondering if Gates ever really had such a conversation with a person called "Mary," or if this was just another one of his cockamamie tales designed to further promote his biotechnological and "green" innovations particularly in developing areas of the world such as Africa.

Gates has taken a keen interest in Africa throughout his career, probably because the land mass is huge and has a lot of potential to be globalized and turned into just another slave plantation for Gates and his ilk. Africa is an emerging market, in other words, that is ripe for exploitation.

Another thing is that not everyone in the philanthropy or even biotechnology world agrees with Gates. The Breakthrough Institute that Gates takes credit for actually refuted his "green" pipe dreams for Africa as being completely unrealistic.

"No matter what advocates and policymakers say, these cheap, renewables-only scenarios remain theoretical and unproven even for wealthy countries," the directors of the Breakthrough Institute are quoted as saying. "It is even more difficult for poor countries."

"Too often, climate advocates claim a consensus on the feasibility and affordability of 100 per cent renewable power globally when such a consensus simply does not exist  certainly not among energy systems experts, when they consider real-world constraints. Claims that it will be cheaper for African countries to use only renewable energy to grow their economies rather than a mix of fuels are unrealistic."

In 2021, Scientific American published an article with a similar bent that challenges the mission and claims of Gates and his "philanthropic" foundation. The Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA) says the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and its partner the Cornell Alliance for Science are lying about GMO seeds being healthy, productive, and environmentally friendly, which they are not.

The latest news about what Bill Gates has planned for Africa and the world can be found at Globalism.news.

Sources for this article include:

Expose-News.com

YouTube.com

NaturalNews.com
Nearly 4,000 car dealers urge Biden to abandon unrealistic electric vehicle agenda amid plummeting sales

Nearly 4,000 car dealers from all over the United States have sent a letter to President Joe Biden, urging him to abandon his "unrealistic" green energy agenda involving the expansion of electric vehicle (EV) use due to the lower-than-expected sales and adoption.

In the letter, car dealership heads and executives advised Biden to drop EV mandates and green energy requirements for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) that demand two out of every three vehicles sold in the U.S. by 2032 must be EVs. Car dealers argue that consumer demand for EVs does not align with the influx of BEVs arriving at dealerships, resulting in unsold vehicles piling up despite deep price cuts, manufacturer incentives and government subsidies.

"With each passing day, it becomes more apparent that this attempted electric vehicle mandate is unrealistic based on current and forecasted customer demand. Already, electric vehicles are stacking up on our lots, which is our best indicator of customer demand in the marketplace," car dealers wrote.

Car dealers argue that current technology is inadequate to meet the needs of the majority of consumers. They are pleading with the administration to "tap the brakes on the unrealistic government electric vehicle mandate" and to instead focus on advancing battery technology, enhancing EV affordability, developing domestic mineral sources for batteries and establishing reliable charging infrastructure. (Related: Shifting to green energy is currently impossible due to global shortage of batteries and minerals needed for energy storage.)

This, in turn, would allow the American consumer time to become comfortable with the technology and make informed choices regarding their vehicle preferences.

Car dealers face sluggish EV sales despite discounts and incentives

Auto industry experts support car dealers, as they know that dealerships are struggling to sell their EVs. Online car inventory directory Edmunds revealed that, in September 2022, EVs only spent on average 21 days on dealership lots before being sold. This figure has since surged to 65 days. This reluctance and loss of interest in EVs is supported by the current situation of EV sales across the United States.

For instance, Mickey Anderson, who owns 20 dealerships in Nebraska, Missouri, and Colorado, initially received nearly 200 orders for the Ford F-150 Lightning EV when it was announced. However, the enthusiasm waned over time, which resulted in only 25 Lightning sales out of 1,000 Ford F-series trucks sold in 2022.

Anderson currently has 12 Lightnings in stock, equivalent to about a six-month supply, and is offering significant discounts, including up to $14,000 in Ford incentives, dealer discounts, and a $7,500 federal tax credit to attract buyers.

Although his stocks sound as promising as they may sound, Andreson could not deny the fact that he still needs to consider the struggles that American consumers face if dealerships in the future only offer EVs.

Meanwhile, Mary Rice, the owner of a Toyota dealership in Greensboro, North Carolina, is frustrated that newly redesigned Prius hybrids are selling well in Toyota's Southeast region, but the fully electric BZ4X SUVs are not moving, sitting idle and collecting dust.

She said that if people were eager to buy EVs, it would be great, but she anticipates being left with unsold EVs at the end of the year despite offering discounts, as there seems to be little interest.

Watch Glenn Beck expose Biden's secret war on American energy in the video below.

This video is from the High Hopes channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Phasing out fossil fuels and replacing them with "green" energy is a "dangerous delusion," report warns.

EV supply chain problems drive GM to build green battery packs for electric cars BY HAND.

Nobody is buying electric cars, but automakers continue to manufacture them in accordance with green agenda.

Going green may cost you LOTS of greenbacks: Ohio man billed $42,000 to fix his Rivian pickup EV following fender bender.

Germany halts gas car ban, prompting EU ire and false accusations of blackmail against Green Deal and Net Zero agenda.

Sources include:

Breitbart.com

Axios.com

Brighteon.com
Christian trucking company fined $700k for refusing to hire illegal immigrants

The United States Justice Department announced they reached a $700,000 agreement with Covenant Transport Inc. to resolve discriminatory practices against non-U.S. people.

(Article by Graham republished from WLTReport.com)

Thats right.

The DOJ has found that it is discrimination to hire only legal citizens.

BREAKING REPORT: Bidens Department Of Justice just fined a Christian Tennessee trucking company $700,000 for asking workers to identify their legal status.. JOE'S AMERICA.. Covenant Transport Inc. and Transport Management Services LLC have agreed to a FINE of $700,000 in civil pic.twitter.com/CrJCe2W4WK  BandOfBrothersQ+ (@Q_Plus_) December 2, 2023

Chattanoogan News shares more on the story:

The Justice Department announced Tuesday that it has secured a $700,000 agreement with Covenant Transport Inc. (Covenant), as well as the affiliated entity Transport Management Services LLC (Transport), two transportation logistics and long-haul trucking companies headquartered in Chattanooga. The agreement resolves the departments determination that the company violated the anti-discrimination provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) by routinely discriminating against non-U.S. Employers cannot discriminate against non-U.S. citizens by demanding specific or unnecessary documents from them to prove their permission to work, said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division. The Justice Department is committed to ensuring compliance with our federal civil rights laws so that non-U.S. citizens with permission to work can contribute their talents to our workforce.

Our nation is crumbling, and Biden is ensuring its destruction.

Punishing U.S. companies for only hiring U.S. citizens is insane!

BREAKING REPORT: Bidens Department Of Justice just fined a Christian Tennessee trucking company $700,000 for asking workers to identify their legal status.. JOE'S AMERICA.. Covenant Transport Inc. and Transport Management Services LLC have agreed to a FINE of $700,000 in civil pic.twitter.com/GytMR5egGd  Chuck Callesto (@ChuckCallesto) December 2, 2023

More from ABCs Channel 9 News:

Employers are required to let workers present whatever acceptable documentation the workers choose and cannot reject valid documentation that reasonably appears to be genuine and to relate to the worker. Under the terms of the agreement, Covenant and Transport will pay $700,000 in civil penalties to the United States, train their employees on the INAs anti-discrimination requirements, revise their employment policies and be subject to monitoring by the department.

American jobs belong to legal U.S. citizens.

As millions of illegal aliens flood into our country, Americans are being forced to fight for jobs.

This is not sustainable, and there will be a breaking point soon.

Read more at: WLTReport.com
European Research Council president insists religious and military leaders should enforce populations getting vaccinated rather than explaining the science

Maria Leptin, the president of the European Unions European Research Council, has taken a shocking stance on COVID-19 vaccines by saying that governments should not explain the science and should simply depend on the military and religious leaders to ensure their populations get jabbed regardless of how they feel about it.

Leptin, who is also a contributor to the World Economic Forum agenda, said that explaining why people should get jabs proved to be a failure during the coronavirus pandemic, so a different and more forceful approach is needed.

In a panel that also included the former CEO of Bill Gates GAVI, The Vaccine Alliance and a co-creator of COVAX, Seth F. Berkley; Shyam Bisen of the World Executive Forums Executive Committee; and the CEO of Moderna, Stephane Bancel, Leptin outlined why she believes there is no point in explaining vaccines to the public and that forcing them to get these experimental jabs is somehow a better method.

Of course, explaining the science would actually inspire more people to get jabbed if the science showed that vaccines were both perfectly safe and fully effective in preventing the transmission of the disease they are supposed to protect against. If COVID-19 vaccines actually delivered on safety and efficacy promises, the science would bear that out and people would be more than willing to get jabbed.

Unfortunately, we all know that not only do the current crop of COVID-19 vaccines fail to prevent the disease from spreading, but they also come with a host of side effects, some of which are potentially deadly. So in that sense, it would appear that Leptin is right: explaining the science behind these shots is going to send people running in the opposite direction, and rightfully so.

Countries with high vaccine uptake used military and religious pressure

This leaves force as the only option on the table. Leptin pointed out that the countries that experienced the greatest uptake of COVID-19 vaccines were those that used heavy coercion and whose governments did not waste any time getting their citizens to try and understand the science.

She used the South Asian country of Bhutan as an example. She said they used the influence of the religious establishment there to manipulate the public into getting jabbed.

One is Bhutan, which, where they were very successful in preparing a campaign and involved [ ] they were sensitive to the countrys needs, to the citizens needs, involved informing the religious establishment and in fact using them in finding the right time and date and they got fantastic coverage. No science was explained, she remarked.

Another example she cited was that of Portugal, where says the vaccination campaign was entrusted to a retired general from the army.

And the Army General just treated the country as his troops and he rallied the troops. He declared it as a war that the country, in patriotic passion, was going to fight together. And they had up there, I think, they were leading in Europe, if not the world.

She added: So, no science. Lets remember that.

According to the AP, Rear Admiral Henrique Gouveia e Melo made no apologies for his desire to characterize the vaccine rollout as a battle, even going so far as to wear his combat fatigues to send a message to the people of Portugal that this was a call to arms.

Not surprisingly, Leptin failed to acknowledge the fact that none of those countries approaches involved getting informed consent from the people who were subjected to these potentially dangerous vaccines.

Without explaining the science behind these vaccines to people, there is no way that they can provide true informed consent. Apparently, health freedom doesnt matter to her and her World Economic Forum cronies.

Sources for this article include:

SlayNews.com

Expose-News.com

APNews.com
UPDATE: Evidence in Democrat Senators investigation traced back to violent crime

Well, this is certainly quite the twist, but is it? Virtually the entire Senate is composed of criminals and thugs.

(Article by Vince Quill republished from WLTReport.com)

WLTR recently reported on the bribery scandal of Democrat Senator Bob Menendez and the ensuing investigation into the Democrat lawmaker.

Menendez is accused of taking $400,000 in bribes from Egyptian officials including physical property and gold. The precious metals are what is of concern to us today.

According to a new report, some of that gold has been traced back to a 2013 armed robbery.

Police conducting a separate investigation eventually linked the gold back to known Menendez associate and fundraiser Fred Daibes.

For those who dont know, Daibes is also facing allegations of bribing Menendez for legal favorsmore specifically dodging federal cases against him.

Journalist Brian Cates had this to say: Of the 13 gold bars found in Senator Bob Menendezs [D-NJ] possession during the raid of his home last June 22nd, FOUR are NOW CONCLUSIVELY PROVEN to have been stolen during an ARMED ROBBERY of a known Menendez associate back in 2013. This is what you call a MAJOR FUCKING PLOT TWIST, folks.

Of the 13 gold bars found in Senator Bob Menendez's [D-NJ] possession during the raid of his home last June 22nd, FOUR are NOW CONCLUSIVELY PROVEN to have been stolen during an ARMED ROBBERY of a known Menendez associate back in 2013. This is what you call a MAJOR FUCKING pic.twitter.com/7pPPHI4C51  Brian Cates - Political Columnist & Pundit (@drawandstrike) December 5, 2023

Benny Johnson took the time to point out: Senator Bob Menendez took bribes directly from the Egyptian government in the form of GOLD BARS, in exchange for classified information.

Yet Republicans were more concerned with expelling George Santos for lying about buying some hand bags. Gold bar Bob still sits in the Senate while Republicans shrink their own majority in the House. This is why we lose.

Senator Bob Menendez took bribes directly from the Egyptian government in the form of GOLD BARS, in exchange for classified information. Yet Republicans were more concerned with expelling George Santos for lying about buying some hand bags. Gold bar Bob still sits in the  Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) December 4, 2023

The New York Post provided more details:

Each gold bar has its own serial number, Daibes told investigators in 2014 when questioned about the stolen gold. Theyre all stamped  youll never see two stamped the same way.

Daibes also signed property release forms to get the gold back, which certified that the stolen goods belonged to him, according to the outlet.

More conservative influencers like End Wokeness and Joey Mannarino echoed Johnsons sentiment:

105 Republicans voted to expel George Santos. 0 Democrats voted to expel Senator Bob Menendez who: Bribed with hundreds of thousands of dollars from foreign entities. Received cash, gold bars, payments for a home mortgage, a luxury vehicle and other items of value from Egypt.

Provided sensitive info and pressured an official at to protect Egyptian American businessman Wael Hanna and the government of Egypt.Interfered in an investigation by the New Jersey AG into businessman Jose Uribe.

Read more at: WLTReport.com
Israel KNEW about Hamas attack plan more than a year before Oct. 7 massacre but failed to act on it

When Hamas terrorists killed more than a thousand Israelis and took hundreds hostage on October 7, the incident was widely described as a surprise attack. However, the New York Times reports that the incursion was not nearly as unexpected as it is being portrayed.

In fact, it all played out very similarly to a Hamas plan the Israeli military has been aware of more than a year, according to the news outlet. Although the plan did not provide a date for the attacks, it did go through the types of violence seen on October 7 point by point. The document provided details of an assault that would see Hamas fighters overwhelming the fortifications surrounding the Gaza Strip and then taking over Israeli cities and going after important military bases.

The Times reports that Israeli officials received a 40-page battle plan detailing a hypothetical attack by Hamas on neighborhoods in Southern Israel. They report that multiple intelligence leaders and military officials saw it, although it is not clear if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was aware of it. Although it is not known how Israel obtained the plan, it had been translated, presumably from Arabic, which means it may have been intercepted from someone associated with Hamas.

At the time, Israeli intelligence and military officials dismissed the plan, which they assigned the code name Jericho Wall, believing that it would be too challenging for Hamas to successfully carry out. They considered it to be something Hamas might be dreaming of doing eventually but did not think they were anywhere near being able to pull such a feat off. Hamas reportedly started to devise the plan in 2012, refining it over the years as they obtained better intelligence.

Israel's big intelligence blunder

New York Times Staff Writer Ronen Bergman, who wrote the report, joined Morning Joe host Joe Scarborough on MSNBC to talk about the report. He said he believed the date of the attack was not chosen by accident; it was a day after the 50-year anniversary of the start of the Yom Kippur War, another deadly conflict that took Israel by surprise. He referred to October 7 as Israels biggest intelligence blunder in 50 years and a day, noting that officials thought Hamas was afraid of Israel and wouldnt go up against them. He also believes they underestimated their capabilities.

He said: If you look at the plan, its amazing. Its shocking, both as a journalist and as an Israeli, the extent of knowledge that Hamas had about Israel, about Israeli secret fortification in the border.

Not only did Israel know that Hamas was hoping to pull something like this off eventually, but the NYT report says that they could have potentially stopped them.

Officials privately concede that, had the military taken these warnings seriously and redirected significant reinforcements to the south, where Hamas attacked, Israel could have blunted the attacks or possibly even prevented them.

The report added that the terrorists had followed the blueprint with shocking precision. It included details that matched what ultimately happened on October 7, such as using drones to disable security cameras, sending gunmen into Israel on paragliders and motorcycles, and barrages of rockets.

U.S. intelligence community believed an escalation in violence was imminent

The U.S. also had some idea that an attack could be in the works, with at least two assessments based partly on intelligence from Israel warning the Biden administration there was a growing risk of a conflict between Israelis and Palestinians in the weeks before October 7.

For example, a September 28 report cautioned that Hamas was about to escalate its rocket attacks across the border, while a CIA wire from October 5  just two days before the massacre  warned of a rising possibility of Hamas violence. A day later, American officials circulated reports from Israel that Hamas was carrying out unusual activity.

Many Israeli officials claim that these intelligence failures will be investigated after the war, but they will eventually have to be held accountable for the fact that they had in their possession what was essentially a blueprint outlining what ended up happening on October 7 in such great detail and failed to act on it. The question is, how many lives will be lost on both sides on account of this monumental failure?

Sources for this article include:

InformationLiberation.com

CNN.com

MSNBC.com
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin warns: Israel risks strategic defeat if it doesnt protect Palestinian civilians in Gaza

United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has warned Israel that the country risks "strategic defeat" in its ongoing conflict with Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups in Gaza if it fails to heed growing international concern regarding the mounting civilian death toll.

Austin warned that Israel can only achieve victory if it did everything in its power to protect civilians, create humanitarian corridors to allow Palestinians to flee conflict zones and listen to other nations and international organizations when they warn about humanitarian lapses and possible crimes against humanity in Gaza. He gave this warning during a speech to the Reagan National Defense Forum in Simi Valley, California on Saturday, Dec. 2. (Related: Israel's GENOCIDE in Gaza leads to rising global pro-Palestine sentiment.)

"I have personally pushed Israeli leaders to avoid civilian casualties," said Austin, who also claimed that he has urged the Israeli government to end its extremist anti-Palestinian rhetoric and to prevent violence by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, which is internationally recognized to be Palestinian territory. "We will continue to press Israel to protect civilians and to ensure the robust flow of humanitarian aid."

Austin's comments come as international pressure for Israel to end all military operations in Gaza due to the massive death toll its indiscriminate bombing and attacks on civilians have caused. Even top U.S. officials  previously hesitant to publicly criticize Israeli actions in Gaza  are now getting braver and becoming increasingly vocal in their warnings to Israel about the death toll in the Gaza Strip.

Civilian casualties make it difficult for America to continue supporting Israel

Federal leaders are concerned that mounting civilian casualties could make continued U.S. support for Israel untenable.

Despite that, Austin emphasized Israel had the right to defend itself and to respond to terrorist attacks, like the alleged Oct. 7 surprise attack on Israel supposedly by Hamas that left at least 1,200 Israelis dead. But he did add that it is crucial for Israel to listen to its allies and to work together with the international community to prevent civilian casualties.

"It would compound this tragedy if all that awaited Israelis and Palestinians at the end of this awful war was more insecurity, more rage and more despair," warned Austin. "Israelis and Palestinians have both paid too bitter a price to just go back to Oct. 6 [before the war]."

Furthermore, Austin reaffirmed the White House's previous statements regarding Israel, noting that the U.S. will remain the country's "closest friend in the world" and that American support for Israel is non-negotiable.

Austin argued that the "only viable" way out of the conflict is a two-state solution wherein Israeli and Palestinian civilians alike can "find a way to share the land that they both call home." He then denounced Hamas and said that the U.S. will continue working with Israel to help release the remaining approximately 140 hostages taken during the initial attack on Oct. 7.

Federal officials are also supposedly working to stabilize the situation in other parts of the Middle East amid fears of rising tensions and a potential escalation in the conflict.

Watch this episode of the "Health Ranger Report" as Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, discusses how Israel's assault on Gaza is not "self-defense."

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Senior Israeli lawmaker declares "we are too humane," calls on Israel to "burn Gaza now."

Almost TWICE the total tonnage of the Hiroshima atomic bomb has already been dropped on Gaza by Israel  that's why the place looks NUKED.

Spiritual principles now being used to justify slaughter of innocents in Gaza, former Congressman Dennis Kucinich tells Mike Adams.

Former Israeli gov't minister claims final solution for Gaza is FORCED EXPULSION of all 2M Palestinians.

Former Jewish State Department official cheers on Palestinian genocide, says more children in Gaza need to die.

Sources include:

Bloomberg.com

FT.com

TheHill.com

Brighteon.com
Parents group warns: Hiding LEGAL NAMES of transgender students from nurses is DANGEROUS

A group of parents has expressed alarm over the Irvine Unified School District (IUSD) in California concealing the legal names of transgender students with severe health issues from nurses.

Through a public records request, the group dubbed as Irvine Unified Exposed found an email thread detailing discussions among IUSD employees. The staffers were debating whether or not school nurses and other health staff should have access to the Aeries computer program, which displays or conceals the legal names of transgender students. According to the Epoch Times, a 911 call for a child with a "gender support plan" in December 2022 triggered the debate.

One group member who used the pseudonym "Sarah Park" warned that withholding this crucial information could lead to dire consequences, especially in emergency situations where quick access to the medical history of a student is important.

"If nurses are not being given the student's real name and gender, how are they supposed to give medications or give the child's medical history to paramedics in an emergency? Some child is going to get seriously hurt or killed," Park argues. (Related: Leah Brooks urges parents to RESCUE their kids from woke indoctrination in schools.)

"I was horrified to hear that the school nurse and other officials were not involved in this secretive plan," said another parent who chose to remain anonymous. "As a parent of a child with a life-threatening health condition, it scares me for my child and all students at [IUSD] who might not receive timely lifesaving care due to the chaos caused by this secrecy policy. Schools should not be hiding things," said another parent who chose to be anonymous."

IUSD Public Information Office Annie Brown denied accusations that the school district is compromising student safety. "Nurses have access to see students' information," she said, adding that name changes in the system don't prevent staff from seeing medical information." Brown also mentioned that the email thread proves that IUSD is committed to "continually improve how [it serves] students"  especially after emergencies.

IUSD fails to address several gender-related issues

According to Irvine Unified Exposed, the school district hiding the legal names of transgender students is just the tip of the iceberg.

A 2022 article published in the Northwood Howler recounted the observation of Maureen Muir, a mental health specialist who provides LGBTQ community support district-wide. She revealed that there had been an increase in students identifying as transgender or nonbinary during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Prior to the pandemic, Muir only saw six transgender children. But soon after, this increased to more than 27. IUSD also reported 110 gender support plans at the end of the 2022-2023 school year, with 14 of them in elementary schools.

Tiffany Craft, another parent in the group, accused IUSD of pushing "gender affirmation" as the only way to deal with gender dysphoria without considering other health conditions or even parental involvement.

"Parents are largely being kept out of any discussion or conversation about this," she said. "So, the parent is not told before the student sits down with the counselor and starts having these conversations. The parent, if they're brought in at all, is always brought in after the fact"

Visit PublicEducation.news for more news about transgenderism in public schools.

Watch Leah Brooks encourage parents to pull out their children from public schools parroting LGBT ideology below.

This video is from the Counter Culture Mom channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Transgender training is coming to your schools.

Target marketing VP responsible for pushing tuck-friendly transgender swimsuits also holds senior position at organization pushing trans propaganda in public schools.

Sexual predators use same grooming tactics on victims as those now being "taught" to children at public schools.

Public schools aren't just grooming your children to become transgenders: They're also drugging them with mind-altering pharmaceuticals.

GROOMING MEANS PERVERTING: Dangerous trans indoctrination of children in schools is turning America into a nationwide Nazi youth training camp.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

Brighteon.com
Ten people were displaced Monday morning when fire destroyed two adjacent residential buildings on Columbus Avenue in Dunkirk.

Four adults and six children escaped without injury from 533 Columbus Ave., the City of Dunkirk Fire Department reported, and are being assisted by the Red Cross.

The building at 535 Columbus, which was vacant, was fully ablaze when firefighters arrived following a call reporting the fire at 6:35 a.m., and there were heavy flames at 533 Columbus.

The fire spread to three other structures nearby, which sustained exterior damage, according to the report.

Dunkirk firefighters were assisted by the East Dunkirk Volunteer Fire Department and the Fredonia Fire Department. Cause of the fire is under investigation. Emergency demolition was ordered for both buildings.

- Dale Anderson
Pro-Israel Hillel group deceitfully plastered UBC campus with I Love Hamas stickers in hate hoax

In an attempt to make it seem like the campus is filled with hidden terrorists who want to destroy Israel, the pro-Israel Jewish group Hillel, which exists on college campuses everywhere, plastered the University of British Columbia (UBC) with "I Love Hamas" stickers in a now-exposed hate hoax.

Since there are many pro-Palestinian students at UBC who are speaking out in defense of those who live in Gaza, Hillel decided to frame them by leaving "I Love Hamas" stickers deceitfully bearing the campus's "Social Justice Centre" (SJC) name all over campus.

After slapping up these "I Love Hamas" stickers and framing the UBC Social Justice Centre for them, Jewish Hillel members proceeded to complain about how they now feel "unsafe" on campus.

I love Hamas stickers plastered all over @UBC by @SJC_UBC. How can Jewish students ever feel safe on campus when they see student groups expressing love toward a genocidal terrorist organization dedicated to the slaughter of Jews worldwide?! This has got to stop. pic.twitter.com/6lQcZerqyX  Eli Kowaz (@elikowaz) November 18, 2023

In a statement, SJC denied all responsibility for the stickers, stating:

"We have never, and would never, promote or condone such messages  they do not reflect our values."

(Related: There is so much evidence coming out to suggest that the Hamas attack on Israel was a false flag  Israel Defense Forces [IDF] were told to stand down for seven hours before even attempting to defend Israeli civilians.)

Hillel BC leader who ring-led hate hoax reportedly removed from position

Several members of Hillel at UBC reportedly cried fake "crocodile tears" while blaming SJC for the hoax. Now, Hillel has been exposed for having engaged in its own false flag, of sorts, which is ironic considering the false flag nature of the October 7 Hamas attack as told by Israel.

Hillel BC, as the group calls itself, was later condemned in a statement claiming that "an individual who was associated with the organization until earlier this week is responsible for the dangerous stickers that were posted on campus late last week.

"These stickers falsely framed the UBC SJC and have been widely shared on social media, causing reputational harm and extreme emotional distress to SJC members," the statement further reads.

"Muslim, migrant, and POC students have been subjected to threats of deportation and violence as a result of these stickers. The labour and emotional energy that this incident has demanded, and continues to demand, detracts from urgent important organizing work as Israel continues to commit genocide."

In a statement of its own responding to this, Hillel BC's other members denied knowing anything about the hate hoax, blaming the incident on an "independent contractor."

"The actions of this individual do not in any way reflect the values of Hillel which, upon learning of these events, has terminated its relationship with that contractor," the statement reads.

"Hillel BC is committed to presenting the facts and the truth about Israel and Jewish life on campus and the difficulties Jewish students are facing on campus today."

Hillel BC never revealed the name of this alleged "independent contractors" and refused to provide any further comment about the matter.

A similar incident occurred last month at The Cooper Union in New York when pro-Israel students lied about pro-Palestinian students supposedly terrorizing them. The NYPD later debunked that hoax, stating that at no point in time were any Jewish students at The Cooper Union ever in danger from a pro-Palestinian protest that was taking place at the time when that hate hoax occurred.

The latest news about the Israel-Palestine conflict can be found at WWIII.news.

Sources for this article include:

InformationLiberation.com

NaturalNews.com

InformationLiberation.com
Scientists discover an enormous underwater mountain off the coast of Guatemala

Researchers mapping the seafloor off the coast of Guatemala have stumbled upon a massive seamount or underwater mountain

The seamount is 5,249 feet (1,600 meters), which means it is nearly twice as high as the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building at an impressive 2,722 feet.

Scientists from the Schmidt Ocean Institute (SOI) discovered the underwater mountain using a multi-beam echosounder on the Falkor research vessel.

Wendy Schmidt, co-founder and president of the SOI, said that during every expedition, researchers on the Falkor research vessel "have found the unexpected, the awe-inspiring, the new."

She added that while these discoveries help them learn more about the ocean and the aquatic life thriving in it, there is still a lot to learn and researchers "are thrilled to continue exploring."

The researchers reported that the seamount covers at least 5.4 square miles (14 square kilometers) and sits 7,874 feet (2,400 m) below sea level.

The team discovered the underwater mountain by accident while they were on a six-day crossing during the summer from Puntarenas, Costa Rica, towards the East Pacific Rise.

Dr. Jyotika Virmani, executive director of the institute, explained that "a seamount taller than 1.5 km tall which has, until now, been hidden under the waves," emphasizes that there are still many secrets in the ocean that remain undiscovered.

"A complete seafloor map is a fundamental element of understanding our ocean, so it's exciting to be living in an era where technology allows us to map and see these amazing parts of our planet for the first time," added Virmani. (Related: Pyramid discovered beneath the ice in Antarctica is actually a mountain.)

What are seamounts?

A seamount is an underwater mountain with steep sides rising from the seafloor.

Many seamounts are remnants of extinct volcanoes. These underwater volcanoes are usually cone-shaped, but they also tend to have other prominent features such as craters and linear ridges.

Some, called guyots, have large, flat summits. Compared to the peaked shape of seamounts, guyots have a flat top like a table.

While all guyots were a seamount in the past, not all seamounts will become guyots.

There is a broad size distribution for seamounts. However, to be classified as a seamount, the feature must have a vertical relief of at least 3,300 feet (1,000 meters) above the surrounding seafloor.

Seamounts are found in every world ocean basin. While there is no data on the precise number of seamounts, they are numerous.

According to data from satellite altimetry and bathymetric mapping data obtained from survey ships, the number of seamounts that are at least 1,000 meters high is thought to be greater than 100,000.

But despite their abundance, less than one-tenth of a percent of the seamounts in the world have been studied.

Studies suggest that seamounts function as "oases of life," with higher species diversity and biomass discovered on underwater mountains and in the waters around it compared to the flat seafloor.

Seamounts rise high in the water column, resulting in complex current patterns influencing what lives on and above them. Seamounts also provide a substrate or a location for attachment where organisms can settle and grow.

These organisms then provide a food source for other aquatic animals. Researchers have discovered that seamounts usually provide habitat to endemic species or species found only in a single location.

Because seamounts are biodiversity hotspots, the newly discovered underwater mountain could be one of many.

Since 2013, the SOI has successfully mapped 555,9871 square miles (44 million square kilometers) of the ocean floor. While mapping the ocean floor, researchers have also found more than 20 underwater features.

Even though the research vessel was only launched in March, Falkor has been behind nine discoveries, including:

A new ecosystem underneath hydrothermal vents

Two pristine cold-water coral reefs

Two unchartered seamounts in the Galapagos Islands Marine Reserve

Three new hydrothermal vent fields

The SOI is a partner of the Seabed 2030 initiative, which aims to map the entire seafloor by the end of the decade. The institute's work will help experts learn more about the topography of the oceans and help vessels navigate more safely.

"The absence of detailed underwater topography, or bathymetric data, hinders the ability to safely navigate vessels at sea, manage marine resources sustainably, and safeguard coastal communities," concluded the SOI.

Visit Discoveries.news to read more articles about fascinating discoveries by land and sea.

Watch this clip about how oceans are rising.

This video is from the ABOVE GROUND WORLD NEWS channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Study: Asteroid that wiped out dinosaurs allowed flowers to grow on the planet.

Scientists discover 12 new sponge species that look like polar bears, unicorns and aliens.

Cryptic radio signals reach Earth from dwarf galaxy 3 billion light years away.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

SchmidtOcean.org

OceanExplorer.Noaa.gov

Brighteon.com
Soros network ramps up investment in Latino voter mobilization

The Soros philanthropic network significantly increased its funding for Latino advocacy and voter mobilization in 2022, focusing on a key voting bloc.

(Article republished from YourNews.com)

In 2022, the Soros philanthropic network, including the Open Society Policy Center, the Foundation to Promote Open Society, and the Open Society Institute, substantially increased funding for Latino voter mobilization and advocacy groups. This strategic shift came amid declining Democratic support among Hispanic voters.

The Equis Institute and its 501(c)(4) sister organization, Equis Labs, collectively received $35.6 million from Soros foundations. This funding represents a significant increase from previous allocations. The Equis Institute, founded in 2019, aims to enhance Latino civic participation in the United States. Equis Labs, with a broader political mandate, generates reports advising Democratic campaigns on engaging Latino voters and produces research on the efficacy of liberal messaging within the Hispanic community. (Equis Institute and Equis Labs funding details)

Hispanic voters, historically leaning towards the Democratic Party, have shown a change in preference. According to data firm Catalist, Democratic support among Hispanics decreased from 71% in 2016 to 63% in 2020, with a further decline observed in 2022. (Catalist data analysis)

Republican Senator Rick Scott commented on this trend, suggesting that Hispanic voters are moving away from the Democratic Party due to its current policies. He emphasized that many Hispanic voters understand the pitfalls of socialism from personal experience, which doesnt align well with the Democrats agenda.

The decline in Democratic support among Hispanics in 2022 was also evident in CNNs polling, which showed that Democrats secured only 60% of their vote during the last midterm cycle. (CNN polling results)

Carlos Odio, co-founder of Equis Labs, acknowledged the significance of this shift in Hispanic voting patterns. He indicated that the Hispanic vote for Democrats is not firmly established and is subject to change. (Odios interview with Vox)

In addition to funding advocacy groups, Soros network also invested in media aimed at Hispanic audiences. The Latino Media Network, funded by Soros, acquired 18 Spanish-language radio stations across the country for an estimated $60 million in 2022. This move, particularly the purchase of the Miami-based Radio Mambi, drew attention and criticism from some of its hosts and Republican lawmakers. (Latino Media Network acquisition details)

The Foundation to Promote Open Society, alongside the Open Society Policy Center, also provided substantial funding to other organizations targeting Latino communities. These include the Valiente Fund, focused on supporting Latino organizations committed to indigenous sovereignty, anti-racism, and feminist economies, and the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, advocating for increased abortion access among Hispanics. (Valiente Fund information, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice funding)

Republican Senator Marco Rubio criticized these efforts, arguing that they do not address the real challenges facing people today and are unlikely to reverse the trend of working-class Americans, including Hispanics, moving away from the Democratic Party.

Every organization mentioned in this article, including those within the Soros network, did not respond to requests for comment from the DCNF. Equis Lab and Equis Institute were also unreachable for comment.

Read more at: YourNews.com
Bidens Veterans Affairs helped process 161K medical and dental healthcare claims for ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS while denying care for veterans

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of President Joe Biden, with the help of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) processed 161,000 medical and dental claims for illegal immigrants in 2022, a revelation that comes as the VA's role in denying proper care to actual veterans comes under scrutiny.

This revelation comes from Darin Selnick, a senior policy advisor for the advocacy group Concerned Veterans for America, who urged the government to investigate this abuse and to protect and provide more care for the country's veterans. (Related: Texas Rangers, Border Patrol reclaim Rio Grande island previously used as base of operations by Mexican drug cartels.)

When illegal immigrants held by ICE require healthcare, they are typically treated on-site by medical professionals. However, if a specialist or emergency care is required, the immigrants and ICE may appeal for them to be transported to independent private providers.

In such cases, ICE contracts with the VA's Financial Service Center (VA-FSC) to process reimbursements to those providers  paid for by taxpayers.

According to a report from July, ICE has hundreds of letters of understanding in which its Health Service Corps will reimburse providers at Medicare rates. These billing processes use the VA-FSC's Healthcare Claims Processing System, a portal that allows providers to submit and view claims and access resources supposedly intended for veterans.

VA Press Secretary Terrence Hayes stressed in a statement to Fox News Digital that providing billing services is not the same as providing or funding the healthcare of migrants.

"VA does not provide or fund any healthcare services to individuals detained in [ICE] custody," claimed Hayes. "At no time are any VA healthcare professionals or VA funds used for this purpose."

Veterans "mad" about care resources being diverted to illegals

Selnick, an Air Force veteran, warned that he has spoken with many veterans about this clear case of government abuse, "and everyone I've talked to who is a veteran  it makes them mad."

"The VA's mission is to serve veterans. It's not to help ICE and the Border Patrol. It's not to help them go ahead and process medical claims and pay medical claims and make it easy for the unauthorized migrants to get healthcare and dental care," said Selnick.

"The mission of the VA is to serve veterans, not to serve unauthorized migrants. Meanwhile, veterans are having a hard time getting healthcare. They're literally dying because they can't get mental health in a timely manner. They can't get cancer treatment. Bills are being sent to them because they're not paying the providers on time. So, it makes it hard for veterans."

Selnick warned that Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas is planning to expand the migrant medical processing services outsourced to the VA at the expense of possible billing services that could serve veterans.

"It's got to stop. Congress needs to investigate this. Last year, Mayorkas said in testimony that they were working with the VA to go ahead and expand this, possibly in medical centers. We don't know exactly how deep this is. It's got to be investigated," said Selnick.

Watch this clip from Fox News as Darin Selnick discusses the VA's role in providing medical care to illegal immigrants.

This video is from the GalacticStorm channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

More refugees are choosing to remain in Mexico with its booming economy rather than try to enter the U.S.

Report: Border crossers are secretly receiving GPS coordinates of assembly points before entering Texas.

America sees 550% increase in illegal immigrants coming in from Canada.

Venezuelan migrant family regrets coming to the U.S. as American Dream becomes too difficult to reach for illegals.

As U.S. helps Israel ethnically cleanse the "holy land," Biden is deploying heavy machinery to U.S. southern border to LIFT razor wire, allowing more illegals to flood America.

Sources include:

InfoWars.com

FoxNews.com

Brighteon.com
New Zealand coroner issues warning after 2 women DIE from taking oral contraceptives

A coroner from New Zealand is warning about the potential risks of oral contraceptives after two women died from blood clots in September 2021.

Georgia ONeill, a 24-year-old make-up artist from Auckland, was found "unresponsive" in her bedroom on September 20, 2021. Earlier in the day, ONeill had complained that she was feeling unwell and "had a lot of pain in her lower back."

ONeill had sent a text message to her father and roommate. At the time, she was prescribed Ginet, an oral contraceptive, according to the Coroners report.

After receiving the text message, ONeills roommate replied three times but did not receive a response from her. Her roommate eventually returned to their home to find ONeill unresponsive. She was later pronounced dead by attending paramedics.

Oral contraceptives increase blood clot risk

A post-mortem examination revealed that ONeill had thrombosis in the right pulmonary artery, as well as a heterozygous Factor V Leiden mutation.

The heterozygous Factor V Leiden mutation is inherited in about one to five percent of individuals with European ancestry. The figure can increase to at least 10 to 20 percent in those people with underlying venous thromboembolism.

When someone takes oral contraceptives, the risk of developing a blood clot increases substantially. At least five and seven in every thousand are affected annually.

Dr. Eileen Merriman, the clinical director of hematology and lead thrombosis clinician at Te Whatu Ora Waitemata, explained that women with Factor V Leiden have an estimated 35-fold increased risk of developing a deep venous thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) compared with other women without Factor V Leiden.

Coroner Alexander Ho explained that if ONeill had been made more aware of the risks of developing DVT while she took Ginet, she would have been careful when attributing symptoms to a "pre-existing back condition."

According to the New Zealand Medicines and Medical Devices Safety Authority (Medsafe), the oral contraceptive Ginet is not recommended in women primarily for contraception and is only available via prescription.

Ginet is also used to treat women with acne, hair loss or increased growth of facial and body hair if these conditions are caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or the over-production of male-type hormones called androgens, said Medsafe.

Medsafe also warned that women taking the combined oral contraceptive pill should be advised that there is an increased risk of venous thromboembolism. Women taking the drug pill were also told to seek immediate medical attention if they developed symptoms of DVT or PE.

While ONeill did take the Pfizer Comirnaty vaccine on Sept. 7, 2021, the coroner claimed that there was "no evidence" to suggest that the vaccine was linked to her death.

Teenager taking an oral contraceptive also dies from blood clots

On September 9, 2021, a teenager died under similar circumstances.

Isabella Alexander, 17, also took an oral contraceptive while having the pre-existing Heterozygous Factor V Leiden mutation. She died from blood clots.

Reports revealed that Alexander, a Year 13 student, collapsed while walking with her father on Muriwai Beach. The coroner's report showed that Alexander had blood clots in her lungs and legs.

The coroner said her death was caused directly by pulmonary thromboembolism and indirectly by the heterozygous Factor V Leiden mutation, which was made worse by her use of an oral contraceptive.

Like ONeill, Alexander had also taken the Pfizer Comirnaty vaccine earlier. However, the coroner also claimed that he found "no evidence" to suggest that this played a role in her death.

The coroner added that Alexander's death is a grim reminder that even "widely used, and relatively safe, medications still have risks." He also warned that even healthy young people, who seem to have no obvious risk factors, can be affected. (Related: FDA approves first OTC birth control pill in the U.S. despite concerns about data on its proper use.)

According to the coroner, all prescribers of the combined oral contraceptive pill and other hormone-related medications must ensure that they access a patient's comprehensive clinical history. He also recommended that they inform patients about the risks of venous thromboembolism, the seriousness of the condition and the symptoms to keep an eye out for.

Visit DangerousMedicine.com for more reports on the adverse effects of oral contraceptives and other medications.

Watch this clip for more information about the side effects of birth control.

This video is from the Tammy Cuthbert Garcia channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Birth control vaccine that may leave women permanently sterile now in clinical trials.

Birth control pills found to increase the likelihood of ischemic stroke in women.

Horrible idea: First vaccine for birth control now in clinical trials.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

CoronialServices.Justice.Govt.nz [PDF]

NzHerald.co.nz

Brighteon.com
DELIBERATE RUSE? Israel surprises Hamas with incursion in southern Gaza despite strong opposition from the U.S.  or maybe it has Americas blessing all along

In a strategic and surprising turn of events, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) embarked on a 48-hour assault deep into southern Gaza, catching Hamas off guard. The attack happened despite America's "strong opposition" to an Israeli invasion of the southern Gaza Strip.

The unexpected southern push by Israel has been a point of contention, raising questions about whether Israel defied U.S. advice or if there was a deliberate ruse.

Hamas did not anticipate this move, revealing a breakdown in their intelligence assessment. The surprise southern offensive, marked by attacks in the Khan Yunis region, where Hamas leadership is believed to have sought refuge, underscores Israel's commitment to disrupting the organization's command structure.

The city of Khan Yunis has become a focal point of the conflict. With many Israeli hostages possibly held there, Israel's focus has shifted from negotiating their release to considering the possibility of a forceful intervention. (Related: Gaza Strip could prove to be a DEATH TRAP for assaulting Israeli forces.)

Reports suggest that the IDF has penetrated the southern Gaza Strip, advancing from the east toward the Mediterranean coast, effectively dividing Gaza into three sections: north, central and south.

Initial reports from Israeli army radio confirmed the launch of a ground operation by Israel to the north of Khan Younis.

The BBC subsequently verified images of an Israeli tank in operation near the city.

Confirming the ground incursion's expansion across all of Gaza, an IDF spokesman noted troops engaging in face-to-face battles with terrorists.

Since the expiration of a week-long ceasefire on Friday, Dec. 1, Israel has intensified its large-scale bombing campaign on Gaza, described by Khan Younis residents as the heaviest wave of attacks thus far.

The prior seven-day truce had witnessed a complex exchange: Hamas released 110 hostages from Gaza, reciprocated by Israel releasing 240 Palestinians from its prisons.

Israel has turned southern Gaza hospital into a war zone

In response to heightened hostilities, the Israeli army issued evacuation orders on Sunday, Dec. 3, for several districts in Khan Younis, urging residents to leave immediately.

Israeli authorities believe the city is being used by members of the Hamas leadership as a hideout where hundreds of thousands of people have been sheltering after fleeing the fighting in the north in the early stages of the war.

James Elder, a United Nations official, has described a "degree of panic" he has not seen before in a Gaza hospital after the Israeli military shifted the focus of its offensive to the south. He described Nasser Medical Hospital in Khan Younis as a "war zone."

Simultaneously, Israel announced the elimination of Haitham Khuwajari, a senior Hamas commander allegedly involved in the October 7 terror attack on Israel.

The IDF and Israel Security Agency (ISA) released footage of the airstrike that targeted and killed him. In response, Hamas launched dozens of rockets at various targets across Israel. However, speculation is mounting that Hamas might be emptying its arsenals to prevent the IDF from seizing rockets as they advance further.

Social media reports also suggest that morale among the Palestinian population is beginning to collapse due to the intensifying conflict and Israel's strategic advancements.

In a notable shift, Israel is exploring the possibility of appealing directly to the residents of Gaza, urging them to rise against the Hamas leadership that governs the territory. This tactic could exploit internal dissent within Gaza, potentially undermining Hamas' control.

Read more stories about conflicts around the world at WWIII.news.

Watch Israeli forces engage resistance fighters in Qalqilya.

This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Gaza becomes "graveyard for children" as civilian death toll hits 10,000.

Gaza media office: Israel has dropped 40,000 tons of bombs since October 7, dwarfing the size of the Hiroshima explosion.

Gaza's dwindling Palestinian Christian community could be COMPLETELY WIPED OUT by Israeli attacks.

Sources include:

Breitbart.com

BBC.com

Brighteon.com
Peter Koenig: Israel wants CONTROL of water, hydrocarbons in the Middle East

Geopolitical analyst Peter Koenig believes Israel wants control of water and hydrocarbons in the Middle East.

Koenig, who was formerly with the World Bank, put forward this claim during a recent appearance on the "Health Ranger Report." He told the Health Ranger Mike Adams that he and some of his World Bank colleagues had made a study of water availability in the Palestine-Israel area.

The said study found that 80 percent of all the water in the area was either on or below the Palestinian territories. This was one of the reasons why Israel never wanted to honor the Oslo Accords, according to Koenig. The two accords laid out the foundation for the two-state solution.

One of the precepts of the Oslo Accords, Koenig said, was that the two states would be autonomous and responsible for managing their own resources and land. Given that precept, Palestine would be in control of about 80 percent of all the water in the region.

"That was unacceptable for Israel, which was actually one of the key reasons why they never wanted to accept the Oslo agreement," he told Adams. The report by Koenig and his colleagues went to the World Bank's board, but was not approved as it did not represent the Israeli position.

He continued that 80 percent of the water in Palestine was mostly in the West Bank. Meanwhile, Gaza has a large aquifer  but this isn't controlled by the Palestinians, rendering the strip very short on water.

The Health Ranger, meanwhile, remarked that aside from supporting a population, water is crucial for national security and economic growth. Water is also used by industry and for food resources which is needed to grow crops. Every human being consumes a certain amount of water daily for basic needs.

According to Koenig, control over water resources is just one aspect of the motivation for the "Greater Israel" expansion plan and the conflict to make this plan a reality. "The Zionists who set up modern-day Israel wanted a larger Israel that stretches far east and southeast and covers portions of Saudi Arabia, Syria, Jordan and Iraq," he said.

Israel could take control of 30-40% of the world's hydrocarbons

Koenig noted that the aforementioned area contains between 40 and 50 percent of all the known hydrocarbons in the world. "Easily, 30 to 40 percent of all the hydrocarbons in the world that would be under (the) control of Israel if the larger Israel would actually happen. That's one of the reasons; the first point, maybe," he said.

A second reason, according to Koenig, is British Gas' discovery of huge gas deposits about 20 to 30 kilometers (12.4 to 18.6 miles) off the coast of Gaza in 2000. This deposit possibly contains a trillion cubic feet of gas buried under the sea. The economist and geopolitical analyst noted that Israel would like to seize this amount of gas. (Related: Boyle: Israel is a PROXY of the U.S. to control the Middle East and secure energy supplies.)

"There is some gas and some oil also in the north of the Gaza area which belongs to Israel, but not as much by far. So, this enormous amount of gas would happily be confiscated by Israel and belong to Israel to be distributed and sold to the West."

Ultimately, the Health Ranger stressed that whoever controls hydrocarbons has both strategic control and an opportunity for massive wealth generation.

Follow Chaos.news for more news about the ongoing conflict in Israel.

Watch the full conversation between Peter Koenig and the Health Ranger Mike Adams below.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Israeli genocide of Gaza may be motivated by Palestines maritime natural gas reserves and desire to wipe Gaza off the map.

War in Gaza not only claiming lives but also devastating Israels economy.

Western economies headed for collapse if U.S. and Israel push escalation of war in the Middle East.

Sources include:

Brighteon.om

Britannica.com
Texas judge probed for funneling $11M in taxpayer money to ally who has ties with prominent Dems

A Texas judge is under investigation for allegedly rigging a pandemic outreach contract worth $11 million so it would be awarded to one of her political allies  who has ties with several prominent Democrats and the Democratic National Committee (DNC).

The Public Corruption Investigation Unit (PCIU) of the Texas Rangers announced on Nov. 9 that it obtained search warrants for documents, in relation to a probe by the Harris County District Attorney's Office into County Judge Lina Hidalgo. The PCIU accused Hidalgo of witness tampering, intent to conceal evidence and the misuse of emergency authorization powers to bypass the county's contract voting process. It also expressed plans to take the findings to a grand jury.

Based on the search warrants obtained by the Epoch Times, Hidalgo allegedly took advantage of her position as county judge to direct $11 million worth of Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic outreach money to Elevate Strategies. The firm is owned by Hidalgo's political ally Felicity Pereyra, who has been linked to various Democratic campaigns.

Pereyra served as the deputy data director for the Obama for America campaign in 2012. Four years later, she served as the analytics director for the Hillary for America campaign. Following that 2016 stint, Pereyra joined the DNC as its director of data between 2017 and 2018.

Moreover, the warrant stated that Hidalgo communicated with Pereyra about the contract's availability before it was publicly announced. When she believed that the county commissioner might not approve the allocation of funds, Hidalgo used her emergency authorization powers to bypass the voting process and award it to Elevate Strategies.

The country judge had previously bragged about an influential list of Democrats who have backed her, including First Lady Jill Biden and liberal playwright Lin-Manuel Miranda.

"Whether it's the White House or the Harris County Judge's Office, there appears to be an epidemic of corruption among high-level Democratic officials," said Harris County Republican Party Chairwoman Cindy Siegel said in a statement.

Hidalgo claims to be a victim of "dirty politics"

Aside from Hidalgo herself, three of her staffers  former chief of staff Alex Triantaphyllis, policy director Wallis Nader and policy aide Aaron Dunn  are also under investigation. They were indicted on two felony counts in 2022 after being accused of helping the smaller firm get the contract. As per the new search warrants, the three members used their phones to discuss the contract with Pereyra and refused to disclose this fact to investigators.

Moreover, the PCIU accused Hidalgo of editing and/or erasing documents relative to the contract. They also accused her of failing to turn over correspondence she was initially asked for in the criminal investigation into her staffers. Hidalgo denied the claims that her office did not turn over information requested by authorities.

"Any documents that they requested, all of us would have done our very best to hand over," she said. "If they asked for it, we would have sent it. If they asked for it and somebody didn't send it, they made a mistake, it got buried in all of this stuff, they could reach out. Everybody knows that you don't mess with these things. You give them whatever they want."

On Nov. 10, the day after the search warrants were served, Hidalgo held a press conference to deny wrongdoing. She claimed to be a victim of "dirty politics" and accused Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg of abusing the power of her office for political reasons.

"She's abused the power of her office the way a bully would abuse size on a playground," Hidalgo said. "With her panicking about her March 5 primary and the fact that she's behind, it's pretty clear she wants to make a splash."

The county judge said she believes the investigation emerged following a poll showing Ogg was in a tight race against her primary challenger, former county prosecutor Sean Teare, in the 2024 elections. Despite being the incumbent, the poll released by the Teare campaign showed Ogg lagging behind the former prosecutor by four points. (Related: Thrive Time Show: Seth Keshel says CORRUPTION of U.S. election system has been ongoing since the 1990s  Brighteon.TV.)

Visit Corruption.news for more similar stories.

Watch Alex Rosen of "Predator Poachers" confront Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, who was allegedly also involved in election fraud.

This video is from the Know What's Right channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

RFK Jr. says Democrat Party has already "rigged" nomination for Biden by EXCLUDING everyone else.

Survey: 33% of Democrats to vote for RFK Jr. if he runs independently  DNC headed for PANIC.

Trump fraud case: Democrat judge, Democrat prosecutor, Democrat city.

Sources include:

ZeroHedge.com

TheEpochTimes.com

Chron.com

Brighteon.com
Netanyahus CORRUPTION trial resumes amid conflict in the Gaza Strip

The corruption trial involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu resumed on Dec. 4 , amid the country's almost two months of military offensives against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

According to France24, the trial was suspended after the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas  formally the Islamic Resistance Movement  on southern Israel. The attack resulted in more than 1,200 fatalities and 240 individuals being abducted as per Israeli officials.

Netanyahu  the longest-serving Israeli premier and leader of the right-wing Likud party  is accused of bribery fraud and breach of trust, allegations which he has denied. His Likud allies have denounced the "politically motivated" accusations, claiming that these stemmed from a proposed judicial overhaul that would have curbed some powers held by the courts.

Lawmaker David Amsalem, a member of Netanyahu's Likud party, dubbed the resumption of judicial proceedings amid the ongoing conflict a "disgrace." He wrote on the X platform: "War? Captives? No, no. The most important thing now is to renew Netanyahu's trial." (Related: Netanyahu promises to turn Gaza into "rubble" following Hamas attack  they will pay "unprecedented price.")

"The high-profile trial is expected to last several more months," said the news channel owned by the French state. "An appeals process, if necessary, could take years."

The trial against the Israeli leader touches on three cases. In one of them, prosecutors allege that Netanyahu and Shaul Elovitch  owner of the Israeli telecommunications firm Bezeq  conspired on a mutually beneficial deal. In exchange for positive coverage on Walla News, which is owned by Bezeq, Netanyahu will grant regulatory favors to the company.

Another case touches on Netanyahu's relationship with Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan and other wealthy personalities. The Israeli prime minister is suspected of promoting a tax project that would yield Milchan millions of dollars. However, the Israeli Ministry of Finance has since vetoed this proposal.

According to prosecutors, Netanyahu allegedly received gifts valued at 700,000 Israeli shekels ($195,000) between 2007 and 2016. These gifts from Milchan include boxes of cigars, bottles of champagne and jewelry  all in exchange for financial or personal favors.

Witnesses testify against Netanyahu

In June, Milchan virtually took the stand and testified via video link from the United Kingdom where he is based. He recounted how his gift-giving to the Netanyahus became routine  with the producer, the prime minister and the first lady developing codes to refer to the different types of gifts. Milchan also mentioned giving his personal assistant "carte blanche" to fulfill any request the Netanyahu couple might make."

The producer later recounted that the gifts didn't affect his friendship with the Netanyahus until a police investigation was opened. It was then that he realized the gifts were "excessive," with Milchan lamenting to police how he was uncomfortable with his gifts not being reciprocated.

In September, former Walla News editor Avi Alkalay took the stand concerning the case involving Elovitch. He told prosecutors of the relentless pressure on the site's editorial staff to slant its coverage in Netanyahu's favor from 2015 to 2016.

According to Alkalay, the staffers at Walla News had undergone "very aggressive mental coercion regarding the content relating to the Netanyahu family." He continued: "The pressure was there all the time and the intervention was in all areas."

The former editor also recounted that interventions on behalf of Elovitch sought to portray the Netanyahus as "always good and in the right, both on political matters and on personal issues." He told prosecutors: "They commonly asked to contradict or change an opinion expressed by a reporter or the significance  of a story."

Meanwhile, Netanyahu  also the country's first incumbent prime minister to stand trial  denied all the allegations. He claimed that he merely accepted gifts from friends without him asking. The prime minister's lawyers said in October 2019 that, according to an expert legal opinion, he had a right to accept gifts from close friends.

Visit Corruption.news for more similar stories.

Watch former Spanish Social Rights Minister Ione Bellara call for Netanyahu to be held accountable before the International Criminal Court.

This video is from the Fritjof Persson channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Report: Zelensky using proxies to buy LUXURY YACHTS worth $75M with U.S. money.

Zelensky buys LUXURY MANSION in Egypt via his mother-in-law using Western aid money.

Turkey files lawsuit against Netanyahu, accusing him and Israel of committing "genocide" in Gaza.

Is Zelensky corrupt? He amassed an $850 million personal fortune in the years before the war with Russia.

Sources include:

France24.com

TimesOfIsrael.com 1

TimesOfIsrael.com 2

Brighteon.com
Guinea pigs: Pfizer gets FDA approval to experiment on pregnant women with new RSV vaccine linked to premature birth

After profiting from one of the most dangerous and ineffective vaccines in world history, Pfizer is ready to advance a new RSV vaccine that is linked to premature birth and neonatal death risk. Pfizer just received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to experiment on pregnant women with their new RSV vaccine, which goes by the brand name Abrysvo. The new jab was fast tracked through phase three clinical trials and will be recommended to pregnant women 32-36 weeks of gestational age. The new jab will be promoted as a preventative for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It was also approved by the European Commission in August 2023, and is awaiting approval in the United Kingdom.

First clinical trials find increase in premature birth and neonatal death after RSV vaccination

The first clinical trials for RSV vaccines found an increase in premature birth and neonatal death after pregnant women were vaccinated. The majority of the commissioners at the FDA are ignoring these safety signals because they believe the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risk of severe RSV in infants. While Pfizer admits to studying preterm birth as an adverse event of special interest, the company did not inform pregnant women of this risk when women were lined up to participate in the phase three clinical trials.

This safety signal was first detected during clinical trials for a similar vaccine developed by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). Both Pfizer and GSK's RSV vaccines are similar because they use recombinant RSV F protein as an antigen.

When the issue of preterm birth and neonatal death was first raised, GlaxoSmithKline halted their Phase 3 vaccine study on February 28, 2022. Pfizer, on the other hand, carelessly plunged forward with their experiment on pregnant women and unborn babies.

GSK had to halt their trials because there was a marked increase in preterm birth in pregnant women living in low and middle-income countries, especially in South Africa. Pfizer also documented a numerical increase in preterm birth in the phase 2 and 3 clinical studies, but the risk was later considered "not statistically significant."

Of the 14 members on the FDAs vaccines and related biological products advisory committee, four of the members voted against the Pfizer RSV vaccine. The other ten members supported the vaccine as safe and gave it FDA approval for pregnant women. The FDA is requiring Pfizer to conduct post-marketing studies to assess the signal of serious risk of pre-term birth. This means another risky vaccine experiment will be carried out on pregnant women who are told to just "trust the science."

Pfizer refuses to provide adequate informed consent to pregnant women

An article published in the British Medical Journal discusses the ethical concerns over informed consent for pregnant women in Pfizers RSV vaccine trial. Charles Weijer, a bioethics professor at Western University in London, Canada spoke with the BMJ about the importance of informing pregnant women about the preterm labor risks in Pfizers clinical trial.

Because life-threatening risks were observed in GSK's RSV vaccine trial, Pfizer had an ethical duty to inform participants of this risk beforehand. If Pfizer would have provided adequate informed consent, then women considering the injection would be able to reconsider the serious risks, and women who already got the vaccine would be able to seek additional medical advice and follow-up.

"Any failure to provide new and potentially important safety information data to trial participants is ethically problematic," Weijer said.

To make matters worse, Pfizers trial consent forms claimed that the RSV vaccine candidate was risk free for the baby. However, when ethics experts reviewed the claim, they called it misleading and irresponsible.

Moreover, when BMJ researchers contacted government health authorities in 18 countries where Pfizer had setup trial sites, they were told by more than 80 trial investigators that none of the pregnant women received informed consent on this life-or-death issue! This is a serious breach of medical ethics and scientific integrity. Babies are being sacrificed to boost Pfizers profits, and pregnant women are being exploited. More researchers and regulators must relinquish their blind trust in vaccination and take a principled stand against medical fraud and malfeasance that is taking place behind the scenes.

Sources include:

Expose-News.com

ClinicalTrialsArena.com

BMJ.com
Elmwood Taco and Subs workers went on strike for part of Wednesday to protest what they said is an illegal union-busting campaign waged by ownership.

Workers said their hours have been drastically cut in retaliation for forming a union and that they have been subject to bullying, harassment and unfair treatment.

Elmwood Taco & Subs workers vote to form a union Workers voted 10 to 4 in favor of the union, with five challenged ballots. The five challenged ballots would not change the outcome of the vote.

Union leader Abel Lopez said he used to work four to five days per week, but he has now been cut down to two days. That has made it difficult for him to pay for rent, bills and groceries, he said.

Weve dealt with harassment and a bunch of retaliation ever since we started the union, and its just gotten progressively worse, he said.

Management has purposely left stores understaffed and is verbally abusive to workers, he said.

Elmwood Taco & Subs workers vote to form a union Workers voted 10 to 4 in favor of the union, with five challenged ballots. The five challenged ballots would not change the outcome of the vote.

Just the way they talk down to us very belittling, he said. Its a very toxic environment, and all we want to do is make it better.

Workers are demanding employers restore their hours immediately and commit to bargaining in good faith with the union.

They launched their organizing campaign in October and voted to join the Workers United union last week. It is the same union that organized Spot Coffee, Starbucks and Lexington Co-op workers in Buffalo.

ETS ownership declined to answer questions, but gave a statement. The store remained open during the walkout.

Elmwood Taco and Subs management values our employees and customers. We will continue working with our employees to provide our customers with high quality food and customer service that our customers expect. Thank you Buffalo for supporting our family-owned and operated business for almost 50 years.

Elmwood Taco & Subs employees latest to seek union representation Elmwood Taco & Subs employees are organizing with Workers United Upstate New York, continuing a trend of unions expanding their efforts with workers in the local restaurant industry.

Workers voted 10 to 4 in favor of the union, with five challenged ballots. The five challenged ballots would not change the outcome of the vote.

Before the vote took place, union organizers said the fast-food restaurant broke the law in its quest to return a no vote.

In an effort to discourage unionizing, ETS held a mandatory meeting, cut worker hours and interrogated workers about union activity, according to workers. All of those activities are illegal, and workers have filed charges with the National Labor Relations Board.
Ukrainian military rapidly losing manpower as Zelensky regime refuses to negotiate ceasefire with Russia

Ukraine now has so few willing soldiers left who want to sacrifice their lives for the deep state in fighting Russia that the Volodymyr Zelensky regime is setting up checkpoints all throughout the country to try to track down potential draft evaders.

After running out of younger men who are willing to fight Zelensky's war, Ukraine started allowing older men to volunteer on the front lines. Now that this has become inadequate, Ukraine is attempting to expand the scope of draft-able Ukrainians to include younger men who were previously exempted from fighting based on medical waivers.

"To help fill the ranks, Ukrainian officials have set up roadside checkpoints to seek men evading the draft," one media outlet reported about the matter. "If they are deemed fit, they are whisked off to draft offices. Online videos of recruitment officers picking men off the streets and forcing them into minivans have gone viral."

(Related: Zelensky's closet advisers say that the Ukrainian president "deludes" himself into believing that Ukraine can win the war against Russia.)

Ukrainian military administering "medical exams" to young men in the streets

Another disturbing indicator as to the sizeable loss of men Ukraine has suffered ever since the start of the war is the presence of the Ukrainian military in the streets conducting random "medical exams" on young men they see.

These so-called medical exams have very low criteria, allowing men with brain damage and metal parts in their body to be drafted against their will. One man, a 42-year-old sales manager with no military experience, says he does not want to fight but sees no way out based on Ukraine's new drafting criteria.

"I'm not going to hide, but I honestly don't know what I can contribute," the man is quoted as saying.

Back when Russia first invaded Ukraine, thousands of Ukrainian men voluntarily lined up at recruitment centers throughout the country. Now that most of those men are dead, Ukraine is scraping the bottom of the barrel in search of more bodies to funnel into the war incinerator  and for what, to protect treasonous U.S. politicians like Joe Biden and his son Hunter, as well as the Pentagon, from being implicated in corrupt and illegal deep state activities in Ukraine?

"Our capacity to train reserves on our own territory is also limited," commented Gen. Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, a commander of the Ukrainian armed forces, about Ukraine's ongoing struggles to establish and train a proper reserve force.

"We cannot easily spare soldiers who are deployed to the front, [and] Russia can strike training centers. And there are gaps in our legislation that allow citizens to evade their responsibilities."

Instead of the usual 18 to mid-20s range of age in its armed forces, Ukraine's military currently averages soldier ages in the 30-40 range, which is much older. Ukraine is also still offering high pay for anyone willing to join  but either nobody wants to, still, or nobody of a qualifying age is still alive.

"Soldiers who spend a full month on the front lines are being paid more than $3,000 a month  a high salary in Ukraine, where average pay is less than $500 a month, and much more than the $650 paid for troops in support roles in the rear," reported Financial Times (FT).

This is tragic and pathetic beyond words ... Ukraine has only old men left to fight a senseless war fueled by the US arms industry, London, Berlin and Brussels ... These men are new recruits ... they are going to certain death. Don't think this can't happen to you. pic.twitter.com/Bv2kto57Gr  Gender Studies for Men (@JohnDavisJDLLM) November 20, 2023

More news coverage about Ukraine's failing counter-offensive against Russia can be found at Collapse.news.

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

NaturalNews.com
U.S. warship, commercial vessels UNDER ATTACK in Red Sea, Pentagon confirms

The Red Sea region is erupting into war as numerous commercial vessels and United States warships incur maritime attacks reportedly carried out by Houthi rebels.

Reports indicate that in just one day, four separate attacks occurred against three separate commercial vessels connected to 14 separate nations. The Arleigh-Burke Class destroyer USS CARNEY responded to distress calls from these vessels, detecting that it was an anti-ship ballistic missile attack from Houthi that fired at them.

The CARNEY was conducting a patrol in the Red Sea at the time of the detection, which also included an anti-ship ballistic missile attack on the UNITY EXPLORER, a Bahamas-flagged, United Kingdom-owned and -operated bulk cargo ship crewed by sailors from the two countries.

While in international waters, the CARNEY engaged and shot down a UAV that was launched from Houthi-controlled regions of Yemen. It is unclear whether or not the CARNEY itself was one of the targets, but reports explain that there was a drone headed towards it at the time of the detection.

As far as we know, there has been no actual damage caused to the U.S. vessel and all of its personnel are fine.

(Related: The Pentagon has been gunning for nuclear war against Russia for years now.)

Yemeni Houthis disrupting international commerce, maritime security

In another separate attack not long after, the UNITY EXPLORER reported that it was struck by a Houthi missile coming out of Yemen. While the CARNEY was responding to the UNITY EXPLORER's distress call, it detected yet another inbound UAV that destroyed the drone with no damage or injuries to either the CARNEY or the UNITY EXPLORER, save for reports of minor damage to the UNITY EXPLORER.

Later that same day, the M/V NUMBER 9 was struck by a missile fired the same Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen while operating shipping lanes in the Red Sea. That vessel, flagged for Panama, Bermuda and the U.K., reported damage but no casualties.

An hour after that, the M/V SOPHIE II sent a distress call indicating that it had been struck by a missile from the same Houthi source in Yemen. The CARNEY responded to this call and reported no significant damage. While traveling to provide support, the CARNEY shot down another UAV headed in its own direction.

These numerous incidents all in one day illustrate that there is now a direct threat to both international commerce and maritime security, at least in the Red Sea region. This threat is already jeopardizing the lives of international crew members from multiple countries.

"We also have every reason to believe that these attacks, while launched by the Houthis in Yemen, are fully enabled by Iran," one report claims about the matter. "The United States will consider all appropriate responses in full coordination with its international allies and partners."

A spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) tweeted (Xed?) that a U.K.-based commercial ship was also targeted in the same Houthi attack while traversing the Red Sea.

"We're aware of reports regarding attacks on the USS Carney and commercial vessels in the Red Sea and will provide information as it becomes available," the Pentagon announced.

As all this is taking place, one of the top-trending topics on X (formerly Twitter) right now are the words "Gulf of Tonkin."

"Biden can draft his 81 million 'ballots' because my kids and I aren't going anywhere," one commenter wrote on a story about all this, suggesting that neither he nor his family are going to go to war for the United States should this situation escalate further.

"The war that never ends or begins is eternal and profitable," wrote another about how war means profit for the fat cat bankers.

More related news coverage can be found at Chaos.com.

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

NaturalNews.com
Experts said that respiratory viruses and bacteria are likely the reason behind the increase in pneumonia among children in a county in Ohio. Medical authorities disclosed that there was an "extremely high" number of pneumonia cases among kids this fall in Warren County in Ohio.

They said that there is no proof or evidence that these cases are tied to an unusual or unknown cause. So far, medical experts noted that they have been attributed to known respiratory pathogens.

Respiratory Pathogens

The Warren County Health District has already reiterated, as stated in a previous media release, that the increase in reported pneumonia cases is not suspected of being a new novel respiratory virus but rather a large uptick in the number of typical pediatric pneumonia cases.

Officials said that there has been zero evidence of this outbreak being connected to other outbreaks, either statewide, nationally or internationally. At this time, there were 145 reported cases of pneumonia in children ages 3 years -14 years.

Fortunately, there have been no reported deaths among the children. While the number of cases is higher this year, the severity is similar when it comes to the previous years. Experts said that most cases recover at home and are treated with antibiotics.

The information was shared so that individuals would be aware of illness in the community and take necessary steps to protect their health such as washing their hands, covering cough, staying home when ill and staying up to date on vaccines.

Medical officials pointed out that it is not uncommon for respiratory illnesses to spread in the community during this time of year. They said that following these basic precautions will help protect the public and their respective families.

In addition to M. pneumoniae, clinical samples taken from the sick children have tested positive for Streptococcus pneumoniae and for adenoviruses.

Further, there are also common respiratory bugs. Symptoms of the infections have included cough, fever and fatigue.

Read Also: China: Respiratory Illness Causes By Known Pathogens Not Novel Virus, Experts Say

Precautionary Measures

The WCHD has been working with the Ohio Department of Health, local children's hospitals and primary care providers in hopes to further prevent the spread of illness.

One recommendation is for providers to have a lower threshold to test children presenting with cough, fever and/or fatigue and consider nasopharyngeal swabs for respiratory viruses, mycoplasma and pertussis.

On the other hand, the WCHD sent out a notification with education to Warren County providers last week in an effort to further clarify the nature of the outbreak.

They said that as we approach the holiday season, when many of us will be gathering together with family and friends, the public must remember to take necessary precautions to protect their health: wash your hands, cover your cough, stay home when ill, and stay up to date on vaccines.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that the amount of respiratory illness (fever plus cough or sore throat) causing people to seek healthcare is increasing across most areas of the country.

The US is experiencing elevated RSV activity, particularly among young children. Further, after a period of limited change, COVID-19 activity is increasing again especially in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions.

influenza activity continues to increase in most of the country. Hospital bed occupancy for all patients, including within intensive care units, remains stable nationally; however, pediatric inpatient bed occupancy has been increasing.

The CDC said that vaccines are available and can help protect people from the most serious health effects of fall and winter viruses.

Related Article: Over 200 Dogs In US States Fell Ill With Mysterious Respiratory Disease
Cyclone Michaung brought intense rain and flooding in Southeastern India. The heavy rains and cyclone killed eight people, according to the recent reports.

This year, India has experienced severe weather events, from powerful cyclones and poor air quality. In the recent weather report, Southeast India experienced flooding concerns due to the recent cyclone.

Homeowners should stay updated with the weather due to powerful cyclones, especially for motorists traveling this week. The threats of cyclones can cause power outages and bring widespread travel disruption.

Recently, NWN reported the 41 people who were saved from a collapsed tunnel in India. The 17-day rescue operations became successful and removed healthily all the stranded workers. Rescuers had to drill into the hard rocks to locate them.

Southeast India Cyclone Updates

According to a recent report, about eight people died from challenging weather conditions in Southeast India. Cyclone Michaung unleashed rounds of rain as it tracked over the southeast coast.

The cyclone managed to maintain packing winds of 100 kilometers per hour, and it was expected to bring severe weather conditions to Andhra Pradesh state.

As the cyclone moved to India, the southern city of Chennai felt the brunt of the storm. The cyclone-driven rains caused flooded roads and vehicles. Low-lying homes were also affected by the flooding, causing people to evacuate by boat.

Meanwhile, the government units set up relief shelters for the affected residents. Based on the reports, the fatalities suffered from drowning, falling trees and electrocution.

In addition, emergency teams were also deployed in the affected areas, including in Andhra Pradesh. People near the coasts are advised to watch out for sea surges, rip currents and dangerous boating conditions.

Cloud Seeding Technology To Ease Pollution in India

In India, poor air quality and toxic smog have affected people's health. Unhealthy levels of air can cause severe respiratory infection and health impacts, especially for children, older adults and people with medical conditions.

About 30 million people in India have suffered from the air pollution. The smog has been exacerbated by vehicle emissions and agricultural fires.

To fight the problem, scientists employed cloud seeding technology to better the air quality in India. The technique will be helpful to improve the rain chances in the country which can ease air pollution.

Also Read: Cloud Seeding Technology Seen To Help Fight Toxic Smog in India

Weather Preparedness in Southeast India: How Can People Stay Safe From Cyclones?

With intensifying cyclones, weather preparedness is important in India, especially in flood-prone areas. Homeowners should stay updated with the forecasts by turning on mobile alerts and keeping battery-powered radios.

In addition, keeping emergency kits will become helpful during troublesome weather in Southeast India.

Related Article: 41 People Finally Saved After Being Trapped in Collapsed Tunnel in India

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A positive hope for conservationists after kiwi chicks were born in the wild near Wellington in New Zealand.

The flightless bird has been an important symbol in the country as the said species suffers from threats and population decline.

The population of kiwi has cultural importance in New Zealand for national heritage. The vulnerable animal has been monitored and protected due to increasing concerns of potential threats.

According to recent reports, the kiwi can live from 25 to 50 years. It can grow slowly, but an adult kiwi can reach 800 grams.

However, their small population is threatened by the following:

Climate change

Habitat loss

Human activities

Predation

Diseases

As a result, protection efforts are crucial for the animals to save from the brink of extinction. The newborn chicks offer new hope for conservation plans, especially in the wild.

New Kiwi Chicks in the Wild in New Zealand

In Wellington, the good news is celebrated by conservationists after new kiwi chicks were born in the wild. Researchers highlighted that the flightless bird experiences impacts of parasites, vehicle strikes and commercialization.

About four chicks were discovered near the hills in Wellington.

Recent reports also showed the slow reproduction of the kiwi in New Zealand, in which only about 5% of kiwi chicks managed to survive in the wild.

In a recent estimate, there are about 26,000 numbers of kiwi population. The significant reproduction of kiwi is essential to save them from population loss.

Threats of Dogs and Stoats

Dogs and stoats have also threatened kiwi numbers in New Zealand. The stoat predation can affect the species of kiwi. Making them healthy with enough weight will fight against stoats.

Meanwhile, dogs can likely kill these flightless birds, too. Recent reports explained that the animal can kill kiwi which can reduce their lifespan. To protect them, local dog owners will be given training to avoid kiwi predation.

Climate change has also contributed to habitat loss due to drought, flooding and raging wildfires.

Also Read: 50% of Marine Snails Vulnerable to Ocean Warming in Strait of Georgia, Report Warns

Ancient Fossils in New Zealand

In a recent report, about 266 rare fossils of fauna were discovered in a treatment plant in Auckland New Zealand. The findings were published in the New Zealand Journal of Geology and Geophysics.

The fossils can date back three million years ago or during the mid-Pliocene age. The discovery can provide new insights into the fauna existence million years ago.

In addition, the country showed the diverse fauna in New Zealand. The unique fauna can also help for conservation efforts of species.

Related Article: Top 5 Deadliest Animals in the World That Kill Millions Every Year

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The latest report showed that the green turtles in Pakistan have experienced habitat loss and pollution threats. Human activity has impacted their reproduction rates and survival.

Marine green turtles play a significant role in the environment. They may look small, but they are important to maintain the seagrass. Green turtles provide essential nutrients for marine animals and plants.

With the seagrass, it provides a crucial habitat for fish and other species. Pakistan is home to different marine turtles.

According to the reports, marine green turtles suffer from water pollution, plastic pollution, habitat loss, climate change, predation and fishing gear entanglement.

Green Turtles in Pakistan Struggled To Live

In the oceans, crabs and other marine animals kill the hatchlings from the sea marine turtles.

People spotted four green turtles in the port of Karachi as one green turtle was discovered laying turtle eggs.

Immediately, conservationists went to the area to look for the surviving marine turtles found in Pakistan. Researchers explained that protecting the hatchlings and green turtles is important for the animal species.

In addition, pollution has continued to impact the species. The increasing plastic and garbage in the sea has made it more challenging for green turtles to survive.

The vulnerable green turtles have also suffered from commercialization and human disturbance. The said threats can affect the green turtle reproduction and successful growth of their hatchlings.

Plastic pollution or debris on the beach can also affect the hatchlings of turtles in the sands. Proper disposal of plastics on beaches will be helpful for the marine turtles.

The emergence of plastic can affect the sand temperatures of hatchlings.

Also Read: 6 Animals That Can Freeze Themselves and Come Back to Life!

Amazing Turtle Facts That You Should Know

Turtles may be small moving creatures, but they play a significant role in marine biodiversity.

According to NOAA's report, sea turtles can potentially lay from 100 to 125 eggs. Once the hatchlings grow, people can see them crawling on the beach or way offshore.

In addition, turtles are known as deep divers. They can swim and submerge underwater to evade prey and look for food sources. When they form large groups, female turtles will gather together.

Based on recent reports, the sea turtles managed to outlive dinosaurs. They likely evolved 110 million years ago.

The life of young sea turtles has struggled against predators. The survivability is low for every 1,000 sea turtle eggs. Researchers explained that only one managed to become an adult sea turtle.

Sea turtles have a long life span from 50 to 70 years old.

Related Article: Top 5 Deadliest Animals in the World That Kill Millions Every Year

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature News.
Scientists warned that the carbon pollution has already heated the planet to more dangerous levels. This as earth is already on the verge of five catastrophic climate tipping points.

Small Changes With Drastic Effects

Researchers explained that tipping points are small changes that can bring about drastic effects and they warned that such changes will result in abrupt and irreversible impacts on the planet.

The Global Tipping Points explained that the triggering would severely damage the planet's life-support systems and threaten the stability of our societies.

For example, the collapse of the Atlantic Ocean's great overturning circulation combined with global warming could cause half of the global area for growing wheat and maize to be lost.

Experts noted that the five major tipping points are already at risk of being crossed due to warming right now and three more are threatened in the 2030s as the world exceeds 1.5C global warming.

The full damage caused by negative tipping points will be far greater than their initial impact.

The effects will even cascade through globalized social and economic systems, and could exceed the ability of some countries to adapt.

Researchers explained that negative tipping points would show that the threat posed by the climate and ecological crisis is far more severe than is commonly understood and is of a magnitude never before faced by humanity.

At present, there is no adequate global governance at the scale of the threats posed by negative tipping points, with studies pointing out that the world is on a disastrous trajectory.

Crossing one harmful tipping point could trigger others, causing a domino effect of accelerating and unmanageable change to our life-support systems.

Preventing this - and doing so equitably - should become the core goal and logic of a new global governance framework. Experts explained that prevention is only possible if societies and economic systems are transformed to rapidly reduce emissions and restore nature.

Studies said that the existence of tipping points means that "business as usual" is now over.

Rapid changes to nature and society are occurring, and more are coming.

If people do not alter the governance approach, these changes could overwhelm societies as the natural world rapidly comes apart.

The current approach of linear incremental change favored by many decision makers is no longer an option.

The existing governance institutions and decision-making approaches need to adapt to facilitate transformational change.

Read Also: Environment Tipping Points Fast Approaching in UK, Says Watchdog

What Is A Tipping Point

Scientists explained that a tipping point is a type of threshold.

They noted that the small change that causes a system to pass a tipping point can be described as a trigger.

The resulting large change can be described as a qualitative change in what a system looks like or how it functions - for example from a Greenland ice sheet to a largely ice-free "green" Greenland, or from an economy powered by fossil fuels to one powered by renewable energy.

The change associated with passing a tipping point also commonly includes qualities of: abruptness (change is rapid relative to the drivers forcing it); self-perpetuation (change will continue even if the forcing is removed, until a new state is reached); and irreversibility (change is difficult or impossible to reverse).

Related Article: Six Climate Tipping Points that Could Trigger Climate Emergency
Scientists in the Antarctic have had the "incredibly lucky" opportunity to examine the largest iceberg in the world, which is roughly three times the size of New York City and broke off the icy continent almost 40 years ago.

With the use of these samples, the survey intends to ascertain how the iceberg is affecting the water's carbon level.

A23a Iceberg's Carbon Levels

The massive iceberg, called A23a, broke away from an ice shelf in 1986. It was formerly part of West Antarctica, south of Chile. The iceberg has been stuck to the ocean floor in the Weddell Sea ever since.

The said iceberg was moving into an area known as "iceberg alley" on its way to the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia when the British Antarctic Survey used satellite imagery last week to establish it was no longer stuck.

While heading south to look at how Antarctic ecosystems are affecting the carbon and nutrient cycles in the ocean, the research ship passed A23a.

"We had the right team aboard to take advantage of this opportunity," said ship chief scientist Dr. Andrew Meijers, adding that it was "incredibly lucky that the iceberg's route out of the Weddell Sea sat directly across our planned path."

Major media sources announced on Nov. 25 that A23a had at last begun to move.

But in 2020, the berg started to break free from its undersea tether, marking the beginning of its struggle for independence.

Read Also: A-76A: World's Largest Iceberg in Antarctica is Being Swept Away to the Open Ocean

Environmental Influence Of Iceberg

Laura Taylor, a biogeochemist on board the ship, stated that the team's collection of saltwater samples from the area surrounding the iceberg would aid in the investigation of potential life forms in the vicinity of A23a.

She also added that the survey hopes the samples will help determine the influence of the iceberg on the carbon levels in the water.

"Giant icebergs can provide nutrients to the waters they pass through, creating thriving ecosystems in otherwise less productive areas. What we don't know is what difference particular icebergs, their scale, and their origins can make to that process," said Taylor.

A23a is also one of the oldest icebergs in the world. The bergs may occasionally run into South Georgia, one of the many islands in this area, which would be problematic for the fauna of Antarctica. South Georgia is an inhabited island in the Southern Ocean that is home to enormous colonies of penguins.

The massive iceberg might prevent millions of seals, penguins, and seabirds from breeding on the island and from accessing the nearby waters, where they would otherwise feed.

Ocean currents will force A23a northward into the Drake Passage, sometimes referred to as the "iceberg graveyard"; most other major icebergs birthed into the Weddell Sea, such as A76a and A68a, have gone through this body of water on their lengthy journeys to their watery deaths.

Fears that A68, another massive iceberg, will crash into South Georgia in 2020 and destroy marine life there and cut off food supplies were aroused in 2020.

A conceivable outcome for A23a as well was the iceberg's eventual breakup into smaller pieces, which prevented such a calamity.

Related Article: Giant Iceberg Caught on Video Approaching Canadian Island
Jurors in an Amherst home invasion trial in Erie County Court on Tuesday heard more about what prosecutors have described as "breadcrumbs" in the "digital trail" they say link the suspects to the crime.

On Mark S. Shadle's phone, there are text messages with his girlfriend in which he says, "We going to jail probably," and "Tell them I stole your car."

Suspects committed Amherst home invasion 'simply to feed their urges,' jury told Two masked men broke into a 72-year-old man's Amherst home late one morning a little more than a year ago, restrained his wrists with plastic cable ties, deployed a stun gun against the man and beat him with his own cane. On Wednesday, Jason K. Evans and Mark S. Shadle, charged in the incident went on trial.

On what prosecutors say is Jason K. Evans' phone, there are voice messages from a week after the crime in which a male voice says there's "nowhere to go" and that he doesn't want anyone to be able to track his location.

Both Shadle, of Kenmore, and Evans, of Depew, face charges of first-degree robbery and first-degree burglary for the Oct. 28, 2022, home invasion on Bucyrus Drive.

The 72-year-old victim, who is expected to testify on Wednesday, spent almost three weeks in a hospital intensive care unit. After being tied up with plastic cable ties on the second-floor of his home, he escaped from his restraints, tearing skin from his arms. He also suffered broken ribs after being beaten with his own cane by two masked men who prosecutors say were Shadle, 34, and Evans, 37.

The trial began last week before County Judge Susan Eagan with a 12-person jury, plus three alternates. Only one alternate remained after Tuesday's testimony.

Amherst police found Shadle's LG Stylo 6 phone smashed in Shadle's girlfriend's car when police located the vehicle several days after the home invasion. The phone had no SIM card inside when police found it.

Amherst police "extracted" the phone's data, along with the contents of a Samsung Galaxy A13, which prosecutors say was used by Evans, using equipment at a Secret Service office in Buffalo, Amherst Police Officer Richard Phillips testified.

Even though the Samsung Galaxy was password-protected, police were still able to download the phone's data, said Phillips, the Amherst Police Department's technical services officer.

The contents of Evans' phone included browser history with a Google search for an address on Bucyrus Drive about two hours before the home invasion, Amherst Police Detective Julian Chinana testified.

The search history also included a search for "cheap" bus tickets in Buffalo done the day after the crime, Chinana testified, as well as searches referencing coins, which were among the items stolen.

Florina Altshiler, Evans' defense attorney, who has argued that the device linked to Evans was shared by multiple people, pointed jurors to cellphone data showing various accounts and usernames that were not Evans. Those included a Cash App username for Evans' brother and an HBO account for a user with the same last name as the victim.

Chinana will return to the witness stand for cross-examination by Shadle's attorneys when testimony resumes Wednesday morning.

Jurors on Tuesday also listened to continued testimony of FBI Special Agent John Orlando, who generated maps based of cellphone location data from two cellphones prosecutors allege were used by the suspects the day of the home invasion.

The data from the devices put Shadle and Evans in the area of the crime scene, off of Sweet Home Road, around the time it occurred.

Orlando, who works in the bureau's Cellular Analysis Survey Team and is based in Pittsburgh, provided a report using data from cellular carriers and Google to illustrate the locations of the phones around the time of the crime on Bucyrus Drive.

Attorneys for both defendants questioned police witnesses about whether the proper protocol was used to ensure the phones weren't remotely manipulated. They also asked whether police recorded and maintained the appropriate chain of custody after they were seized.

In opening statements Nov. 29, prosecutors said Shadle and Evans were "strung out on drugs" when they broke into the victim's home in order to steal things they could sell "simply to feed their urges."
One morning about 13 months ago, then-72-year-old William LaPorta Sr. was in his Amherst bedroom watching television when he heard a loud boom. At first, he thought his fence may have fallen down.

Then a man in a mask appeared in his bedroom doorway.

Who are you? LaPorta asked the masked intruder.

'We going to jail probably,' suspect in Amherst home invasion texted girlfriend Jurors in an Amherst home invasion trial in Erie County Court on Tuesday heard more about what prosecutors have described as "breadcrumbs" in the "digital trail" they say link the suspects to the crime.

Wheres the money? the intruder said.

Thats how the Oct. 28, 2022, home invasion that led to him spending 18 days in a hospital intensive care unit began, LaPorta told jurors Wednesday as the trial of two men continued in Erie County Court.

LaPorta, now 74, told jurors the first burglar at his Bucyrus Drive home kept zapping him with a stun gun.

All that ran through his mind at the time, he told the jury, was whether he would ever see his children or his wife again.

Erie County prosecutors rested their case against Mark S. Shadle and Jason K. Evans early Wednesday afternoon at the conclusion of LaPortas testimony. Evans, 37, of Depew, and Shadle, 34, of Kenmore, each face first-degree robbery and first-degree burglary charges. Their trial began last week.

In opening statements, prosecutors said Shadle and Evans were strung out on drugs when they broke into the victims home in order to steal things they could sell simply to feed their urges.

Defense attorneys have argued prosecutors have failed to prove it was their clients who committed the home invasion.

LaPorta, who entered the courtroom using a motorized scooter, had skin grafts on his arms to repair injuries he sustained when he got himself out of the plastic tie restraints the home invaders put him in, he testified.

My arms were skinned, he said.

LaPorta told the jury the first man who entered his bedroom was Shadle, while the second was Evans. LaPorta said he recognized Evans, who used to work for LaPortas L&B Contracting of North Tonawanda, by the way he moved.

He saw Evans kneeling on roofs during jobs when he worked for him on-and-off for about the last decade, he told the jury.

It broke my heart, LaPorta said, about realizing the intruder was Evans.

Suspects committed Amherst home invasion 'simply to feed their urges,' jury told Two masked men broke into a 72-year-old man's Amherst home late one morning a little more than a year ago, restrained his wrists with plastic cable ties, deployed a stun gun against the man and beat him with his own cane. On Wednesday, Jason K. Evans and Mark S. Shadle, charged in the incident went on trial.

It was the second man who entered his bedroom  Evans  who hit him in the head with his own cane, punched him in the eye and held a knife to his neck, he said.

And he never heard the second intruder speak while he was inside his home; only the first thief said anything, LaPorta said.

The thieves threw cash, jewelry and coins into a pillow case.

LaPorta said he had only met Shadle two or three times, but Evans and Shadle came to him in August trying to sell a ladder and a saw. He didnt need the equipment, LaPorta said, but he bought it from Evans because he wanted to help him out.

He said he pieced together Shadles involvement.

Amherst police showed LaPorta store surveillance video from inside a Dollar Tree store near his home from the morning he was attacked and robbed. LaPorta testified he told police he recognized Evans on the footage buying plastic cable ties.

LaPorta testified during cross-examination by defense attorney Florina Altshiler, who represents Evans, that he couldnt read the handwriting on a two-page written statement given to Amherst police, a document which appeared to show his signature but which he said he didnt recall signing.

Brian Parker, one of Shadles defense attorneys, asked LaPorta about the other names of possible suspects he gave police during the investigation. Under questioning from Parker, LaPorta said he had between 10 and 20 people working for him over the years.

He said he paid his employees in cash and the employees would know he would have cash on hand to make those payments.

Parker and Louis Mussari, Shadles defense attorneys, told the judge they did not plan to call any witnesses. Altshiler said she would be calling a laboratory employee with expertise in DNA analysis. She has argued to jurors that police and prosecutors should have analyzed evidence for traces of DNA. Prosecutors did not enter any DNA evidence in the case.

On Tuesday, jurors heard more about what prosecutors have described as breadcrumbs in the digital trail they say link Evans and Shadle to the crime.

On Shadles phone, there are text messages with his girlfriend in which he says, We going to jail probably, and Tell them I stole your car.

On what prosecutors say is Evans phone, there are voice messages from a week after the crime in which a male voice says theres nowhere to go and that he doesnt want anyone to be able to track his location.

Amherst police found Shadles LG Stylo 6 phone smashed in Shadles girlfriends car when police located the vehicle several days after the home invasion. The phone had no SIM card inside when police found it.

Amherst police extracted the phones data, along with the contents of a Samsung Galaxy A13, which prosecutors say was used by Evans, using equipment at a Secret Service office in Buffalo, Amherst Police Officer Richard Phillips testified.

Even though the Samsung Galaxy was password-protected, police were able to download the phones data, said Phillips, the Amherst Police Departments technical services officer.

The contents of Evans phone included browser history with a Google search for an address on Bucyrus Drive about two hours before the home invasion, Amherst Police Detective Julian Chinana testified.

The search history also included a search for cheap bus tickets in Buffalo done the day after the crime, Chinana testified, as well as searches referencing coins, which were among the items stolen.

Altshiler, Evans defense attorney, who has argued that the device linked to Evans was shared by multiple people, pointed jurors to cellphone data showing various accounts and usernames that were not Evans. Those included a Cash App username for Evans brother and an HBO account for a user with the same last name as the victim.

Jurors on Tuesday also listened to continued testimony of FBI Special Agent John Orlando, who generated maps based of cellphone location data from two cellphones prosecutors allege were used by the suspects the day of the home invasion.

The data from the devices put Shadle and Evans in the area of the crime scene, off of Sweet Home Road, around the time it occurred.

Orlando, who works in the bureaus Cellular Analysis Survey Team and is based in Pittsburgh, provided a report using data from cellular carriers and Google to illustrate the locations of the phones around the time of the crime on Bucyrus Drive.

Attorneys for both defendants questioned police witnesses about whether the proper protocol was used to ensure the phones werent remotely manipulated. They also asked whether police recorded and maintained the appropriate chain of custody after they were seized.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: A city court has granted bail to a former Indian Air Force official, who allegedly shared secret information with intelligence operatives suspected to be backed by Pakistans ISI after being honeytrapped in 2015.

Additional Sessions Judge Aparna Swami noted that the accused has already spent more than seven years in jail, half the maximum sentence prescribed for the alleged offence while granting relief to Ranjith K K, who was a Leading Aircraftman, a junior ranking official below a corporal, with the Indian Air Force (IAF) posted in Bhatinda.

The court took note of the submissions made by advocates Akash Vajpai and Javed Ali, who while appearing for the accused said a scrutiny of the case file reflected that no material delay can be attributed to the accused in causing delay in the trial.

As per the record, all the material witnesses have been examined. At present, 12 witnesses are left to be examined. These witnesses are police officials who in no case can be influenced by the accused. The accused has already undergone seven years and approximately 10 months period of incarceration, the order said.

The accused was charged for the offence punishable under Section 3 of Official Secrets Act the maximum punishment for which is 14 years in jail. The judge noted that the conduct of the applicant in jail was satisfactory.

The applicant/accused has no previous criminal antecedents or involvement(s). Further, as 12 witnesses are still to be examined in the case file, this will take time for concluding the trial. Thus, as the accused has already undergone substantive period of incarceration, this court being guided by the directions of Apex Court believes that accused is entitled to the relief, the judge said.

Ranjith, a native of Malappuram district in Kerala, had joined the Indian Air Force in 2010. He was booked under various provisions of the Official Secrets Act. According to the prosecution, Ranjith was deceived by a cyber entity by the name Damini McNaught, who pretended to be an executive of a United Kingdon (UK)- based media firm and claimed she required from him some Indian Air Force-related information for an article in her news magazine in exchange for pecuniary benefits.

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NEW DELHI: A city court has granted bail to a former Indian Air Force official, who allegedly shared secret information with intelligence operatives suspected to be backed by Pakistans ISI after being honeytrapped in 2015. Additional Sessions Judge Aparna Swami noted that the accused has already spent more than seven years in jail, half the maximum sentence prescribed for the alleged offence while granting relief to Ranjith K K, who was a Leading Aircraftman, a junior ranking official below a corporal, with the Indian Air Force (IAF) posted in Bhatinda. The court took note of the submissions made by advocates Akash Vajpai and Javed Ali, who while appearing for the accused said a scrutiny of the case file reflected that no material delay can be attributed to the accused in causing delay in the trial.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); As per the record, all the material witnesses have been examined. At present, 12 witnesses are left to be examined. These witnesses are police officials who in no case can be influenced by the accused. The accused has already undergone seven years and approximately 10 months period of incarceration, the order said. The accused was charged for the offence punishable under Section 3 of Official Secrets Act the maximum punishment for which is 14 years in jail. The judge noted that the conduct of the applicant in jail was satisfactory. The applicant/accused has no previous criminal antecedents or involvement(s). Further, as 12 witnesses are still to be examined in the case file, this will take time for concluding the trial. Thus, as the accused has already undergone substantive period of incarceration, this court being guided by the directions of Apex Court believes that accused is entitled to the relief, the judge said. Ranjith, a native of Malappuram district in Kerala, had joined the Indian Air Force in 2010. He was booked under various provisions of the Official Secrets Act. According to the prosecution, Ranjith was deceived by a cyber entity by the name Damini McNaught, who pretended to be an executive of a United Kingdon (UK)- based media firm and claimed she required from him some Indian Air Force-related information for an article in her news magazine in exchange for pecuniary benefits. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Express News Service

CHANDIGARH: Khalistani terrorist, chief of banned organizations International Sikh Youth Federation and Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) Lakhbir Singh Rode, who was based in Pakistan, died in the neighboring country following a cardiac arrest.

He was nephew of slain Khalistani militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Lakhbir was listed as an individual terrorist under the UAPA as he was accused in the 1985 Kanishka bombing of the Air India plane. Meanwhile Punjab Police has arrested UK-based Paramjit Singh Dhadi an associate of Rode from Amritsar.

Jasbir Singh Rode brother of Lakhbir Singh has confirmed his death in Pakistan. He said his brother had already been cremated in Pakistan on Monday. We have been informed by brothers son, who lives in Canada, that his father died of a heart attack in Pakistan on December 2. He must have been cremated over there. But we have no confirmation about it. Lakhbir was diabetic and had recently undergone a bypass surgery and had been not keeping well for the past fortnight, said Jasbir.

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CHANDIGARH: Khalistani terrorist, chief of banned organizations International Sikh Youth Federation and Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) Lakhbir Singh Rode, who was based in Pakistan, died in the neighboring country following a cardiac arrest. He was nephew of slain Khalistani militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Lakhbir was listed as an individual terrorist under the UAPA as he was accused in the 1985 Kanishka bombing of the Air India plane. Meanwhile Punjab Police has arrested UK-based Paramjit Singh Dhadi an associate of Rode from Amritsar. Jasbir Singh Rode brother of Lakhbir Singh has confirmed his death in Pakistan. He said his brother had already been cremated in Pakistan on Monday. We have been informed by brothers son, who lives in Canada, that his father died of a heart attack in Pakistan on December 2. He must have been cremated over there. But we have no confirmation about it. Lakhbir was diabetic and had recently undergone a bypass surgery and had been not keeping well for the past fortnight, said Jasbir.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By ANI

NEW DELHI: Days after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won three assembly elections in the Hindi heartland, the MPs who were fielded by the party in these elections and won their respective constituencies have resigned from the Parliament.

As of now, a total of 10 MPs have resigned. Two other MPs, Baba Balaknath and Renuka Singh, did not come to the house today. BJP President J.P. Nadda led the delegation of these MPs during the meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, and Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar.

Sources said that the decision to resign as MPs was taken after a meeting with party president JP Nadda and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

BJP leader Pralhad Singh Patel, who won the MLA election from Madhya Pradesh's Narsinghpur, told ANI, "I have resigned as an MP and will resign from the post of cabinet minister soon."

Former Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, Minister of State for Food Processing Industries of India Prahlad Singh Patel, Lok Sabha MPs Rakesh Singh, Uday Pratap, and Riti Pathak are the MPs who have resigned as MPs after winning from Madhya Pradesh.

Lok Sabha MPs Arun Sao and Gomati Sai resigned after securing wins in Chhattisgarh. Lok Sabha MPs Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Diya Kumari, and Rajya Sabha MP Kirori Lal Meena have also resigned after securing wins in Rajasthan.

The BJP fought the polls using the strength of the party organisation and the charisma of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The party did not project any chief ministerial candidate in any of the poll-bound states.

The BJP created a record in Madhya Pradesh and came back to power after having ruled the state for 18 of the past 20 years. This is an apparent indication of the party's organisational hold in the state as well as the popularity of its schemes and leadership.

Rajasthan seems to have followed the over-three-decade-old trend of rotating governments, and the Congress government led by Ashok Gehlot was defeated by the BJP.

The BJP bounced back strongly in Chhattisgarh, where the ruling Congress was supposed to have done well. A strong, sustained, and aggressive campaign and its matching Congress in poll promises seem to work for the BJP.

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NEW DELHI: Days after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won three assembly elections in the Hindi heartland, the MPs who were fielded by the party in these elections and won their respective constituencies have resigned from the Parliament. As of now, a total of 10 MPs have resigned. Two other MPs, Baba Balaknath and Renuka Singh, did not come to the house today. BJP President J.P. Nadda led the delegation of these MPs during the meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, and Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar. Sources said that the decision to resign as MPs was taken after a meeting with party president JP Nadda and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); BJP leader Pralhad Singh Patel, who won the MLA election from Madhya Pradesh's Narsinghpur, told ANI, "I have resigned as an MP and will resign from the post of cabinet minister soon." Former Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, Minister of State for Food Processing Industries of India Prahlad Singh Patel, Lok Sabha MPs Rakesh Singh, Uday Pratap, and Riti Pathak are the MPs who have resigned as MPs after winning from Madhya Pradesh. Lok Sabha MPs Arun Sao and Gomati Sai resigned after securing wins in Chhattisgarh. Lok Sabha MPs Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Diya Kumari, and Rajya Sabha MP Kirori Lal Meena have also resigned after securing wins in Rajasthan. The BJP fought the polls using the strength of the party organisation and the charisma of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The party did not project any chief ministerial candidate in any of the poll-bound states. The BJP created a record in Madhya Pradesh and came back to power after having ruled the state for 18 of the past 20 years. This is an apparent indication of the party's organisational hold in the state as well as the popularity of its schemes and leadership. Rajasthan seems to have followed the over-three-decade-old trend of rotating governments, and the Congress government led by Ashok Gehlot was defeated by the BJP. The BJP bounced back strongly in Chhattisgarh, where the ruling Congress was supposed to have done well. A strong, sustained, and aggressive campaign and its matching Congress in poll promises seem to work for the BJP. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Police arrest third man in connection with latest shooting at Club Marcella

A third person has been arrested in connection with the targeted shooting Sunday at Club Marcella, the Erie County District Attorneys Office said Wednesday.

Four shootings, dozens of Buffalo police calls led to Club Marcella shutdown The gun attack in the Michigan Avenue nightclub was the fourth shooting associated with the venue, and the second inside Club Marcella, this year.

A 28-year-old man was taken into custody and charged with gang assault, a violent felony, prosecutors said. James K. Pardo was arraigned on the same charge that matches those pressed against Yeramell Benitez, 20, and Ramon Lopez, 29, who were arrested Monday.

All three are from Buffalo. They are accused of participating in an incident in the Michigan Avenue club bathroom where a man was beaten and shot in the thigh, Buffalo police said, adding that the investigation continues and more arrests are possible.

Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia ordered the clubs immediate closure after the incident, which he said follows an unusual pattern of violence both inside and outside the downtown nightclub this year.

On Monday, Gramaglia said Club Marcella owner Joe Guagliardo has been working with police this year to try to improve security and to keep guns from getting into the club.

 Ben Tsujimoto
Parvez Sultan By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Home minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said that the country cant have two flags, two heads and two constitutions and whoever allowed this arrangement had made a mistake. In an apparent reference to the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, he said that the concept of one flag, one prime minister, one Constitution was not a political slogan and the Government had ensured that the country has just one flag and Constitution and one prime minister.

He was responding to a remark by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Saugata Roy in Lok Sabha during the discussion on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill tabled in the House on the second day of the winter session for discussion and passage.

Roy said that he had taught in a college named after Syama Prasad Mukherjee and ek nishan, ek pradhan, ek samvidhan was his slogan and it was a political slogan. Shah said that Roys remark was extremely objectionable. Whosoever did it was wrong. Narendra Modi has corrected it. Your approval or disagreement does not matter. We had been saying since 1950 that a country should have one PM, one flag and one Constitution and not two and we have done it, he said.

Union minister for information and broadcasting Anurag Singh Thakur also spoke during the debate. Hitting out at Ray, he stated that Jammu and Kashmir has undergone a lot of change in the past four

years since the removal of Article 370.

He said that there had been no cases of stone pelting and the Indian tricolour was now hoisted in every street in the Union Territory. But earlier, when the National Conference (NC) was in power, BJP leaders were arrested for trying to hoist the flag there, Thakur said, recalling his own experience of Tiranga Yatra.

Meanwhile, union minister of state in the prime ministers office (PMO) Jitendra Singh said in the House that the government is ready to hold Assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir whenever the Election Commission (EC) takes a final decision in the matter.

Intervening in the discussion on the Bills, he said, Whenever the EC announces it (Assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir), we are ready. His statement was in response to opposition parties demanding early Assembly polls in the Union Territory.

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NEW DELHI: Home minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said that the country cant have two flags, two heads and two constitutions and whoever allowed this arrangement had made a mistake. In an apparent reference to the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, he said that the concept of one flag, one prime minister, one Constitution was not a political slogan and the Government had ensured that the country has just one flag and Constitution and one prime minister. He was responding to a remark by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Saugata Roy in Lok Sabha during the discussion on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill tabled in the House on the second day of the winter session for discussion and passage. Roy said that he had taught in a college named after Syama Prasad Mukherjee and ek nishan, ek pradhan, ek samvidhan was his slogan and it was a political slogan. Shah said that Roys remark was extremely objectionable. Whosoever did it was wrong. Narendra Modi has corrected it. Your approval or disagreement does not matter. We had been saying since 1950 that a country should have one PM, one flag and one Constitution and not two and we have done it, he said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Union minister for information and broadcasting Anurag Singh Thakur also spoke during the debate. Hitting out at Ray, he stated that Jammu and Kashmir has undergone a lot of change in the past four years since the removal of Article 370. He said that there had been no cases of stone pelting and the Indian tricolour was now hoisted in every street in the Union Territory. But earlier, when the National Conference (NC) was in power, BJP leaders were arrested for trying to hoist the flag there, Thakur said, recalling his own experience of Tiranga Yatra. Meanwhile, union minister of state in the prime ministers office (PMO) Jitendra Singh said in the House that the government is ready to hold Assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir whenever the Election Commission (EC) takes a final decision in the matter. Intervening in the discussion on the Bills, he said, Whenever the EC announces it (Assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir), we are ready. His statement was in response to opposition parties demanding early Assembly polls in the Union Territory. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Rajesh Asnani By

Express News Service

JAIPUR/CHANDIGARH: Rajasthan came to a standstill on Wednesday as protests erupted in many districts across the state following a bandh call against the murder of Sukhdev Gogamedi, the national president of Srikarni Sena on Tuesday.

Highways were blocked, trains halted in Bhilwara, and markets remained shuttered in Kota city, where Karni Sena supporters gathered at the Collectorate. The police were deployed in large numbers to ensure law and order.

The state police identified the shooters as Rohit Rathore and Nitin Fauji. Their photos were circulated as the search intensified for international connections.

Nitin Fauji is an Army soldier from Haryana and allegedly had links to gangster Sampat Nehra of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, raising suspicions of a conspiracy in the murder. Nitin Fauji, identified as a resident of Daungada Jat in Mahendragarh, Haryana, had joined the Army about four years ago.

#WATCH | Rajasthan | The body of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, national president of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, was brought to Shri Bhawani Niketan School and College in Jaipur for people to pay their last respects. pic.twitter.com/ypaM21Anz2  ANI MP/CG/Rajasthan (@ANI_MP_CG_RJ) December 7, 2023

The Rajasthan Police conducted raids in Haryana and expanded the search to UP, Punjab, and Madhya Pradesh.

Governor Kalraj Mishra called a meeting of top officials and emphasized continuous vigilance.

Chief Secretary Usha Sharma said the situation was being monitored at the district collector level.

A post-mortem of Gogamedi was conducted and an FIR was registered.

Director General of Police Umesh Mishra and Home Secretary Anand Kumar said efforts were on to apprehend the culprits.

In this screenshot taken from a CCTV footage, Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena's president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi being shot dead in the living room of his house, in Jaipur, on Dec. 5, 2023. (PTI)

On Tuesday, three men opened fire on Gogamedi and fled. Gogamedi was taken to a hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead. Guard Ajit Singh, who was present during the incident with Gogamedi, was seriously injured. Naveen Shekhawat, an aide of Gogamedi, also died in the firing. Gangster Rohit Godara shared the post on social media taking responsibility for the murder.

Gogamedi, who had received threats for the past three years, failed to get police security after he applied for it in April this year. The victim had deposited his licensed weapons due to the election code of conduct but upped his security.

The police team that raided a few places in Haryana revealed that input about the murder had been received 10 months ago from Punjab Police, indicating Sampat Nehras involvement.

The Punjab Police has formed multiple teams to find the shooters and has announced a reward of Rs 5 lakh for each for any information leading to their arrest.

Punjab Police sources said that in February this year, the Punjab DGP had shot off a letter to the Rajasthan Police highlighting a plot to kill the Karni Sena chief.

The Punjab DGP suspected the role of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang.

According to an input, notorious gangster Sampat Nehra of the Bishnoi gang, who is currently lodged in Bathinda Central Jail, has plans to kill Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi to incite religiously motivated riots in Rajasthan, read the secret information shared by the Punjab Police to their Rajasthan counterpart.

The input suggested that Nehra was likely to arrange an AK-47 to accomplish the task through his associates outside the jail.

It is learnt that the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) DIG Anshuman Bhomiya of Rajasthan Police had then flagged the threat to the Additional Director General of Police (Security) of Rajasthan, asking him to take further action. The Punjab Police has launched a special operation by strengthening check posts at all interstate borders.

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JAIPUR/CHANDIGARH: Rajasthan came to a standstill on Wednesday as protests erupted in many districts across the state following a bandh call against the murder of Sukhdev Gogamedi, the national president of Srikarni Sena on Tuesday. Highways were blocked, trains halted in Bhilwara, and markets remained shuttered in Kota city, where Karni Sena supporters gathered at the Collectorate. The police were deployed in large numbers to ensure law and order. The state police identified the shooters as Rohit Rathore and Nitin Fauji. Their photos were circulated as the search intensified for international connections.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Nitin Fauji is an Army soldier from Haryana and allegedly had links to gangster Sampat Nehra of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, raising suspicions of a conspiracy in the murder. Nitin Fauji, identified as a resident of Daungada Jat in Mahendragarh, Haryana, had joined the Army about four years ago. #WATCH | Rajasthan | The body of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, national president of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, was brought to Shri Bhawani Niketan School and College in Jaipur for people to pay their last respects. pic.twitter.com/ypaM21Anz2  ANI MP/CG/Rajasthan (@ANI_MP_CG_RJ) December 7, 2023 The Rajasthan Police conducted raids in Haryana and expanded the search to UP, Punjab, and Madhya Pradesh. Governor Kalraj Mishra called a meeting of top officials and emphasized continuous vigilance. Chief Secretary Usha Sharma said the situation was being monitored at the district collector level. A post-mortem of Gogamedi was conducted and an FIR was registered. Director General of Police Umesh Mishra and Home Secretary Anand Kumar said efforts were on to apprehend the culprits. In this screenshot taken from a CCTV footage, Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena's president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi being shot dead in the living room of his house, in Jaipur, on Dec. 5, 2023. (PTI) On Tuesday, three men opened fire on Gogamedi and fled. Gogamedi was taken to a hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead. Guard Ajit Singh, who was present during the incident with Gogamedi, was seriously injured. Naveen Shekhawat, an aide of Gogamedi, also died in the firing. Gangster Rohit Godara shared the post on social media taking responsibility for the murder. Gogamedi, who had received threats for the past three years, failed to get police security after he applied for it in April this year. The victim had deposited his licensed weapons due to the election code of conduct but upped his security. The police team that raided a few places in Haryana revealed that input about the murder had been received 10 months ago from Punjab Police, indicating Sampat Nehras involvement. The Punjab Police has formed multiple teams to find the shooters and has announced a reward of Rs 5 lakh for each for any information leading to their arrest. Punjab Police sources said that in February this year, the Punjab DGP had shot off a letter to the Rajasthan Police highlighting a plot to kill the Karni Sena chief. The Punjab DGP suspected the role of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. According to an input, notorious gangster Sampat Nehra of the Bishnoi gang, who is currently lodged in Bathinda Central Jail, has plans to kill Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi to incite religiously motivated riots in Rajasthan, read the secret information shared by the Punjab Police to their Rajasthan counterpart. The input suggested that Nehra was likely to arrange an AK-47 to accomplish the task through his associates outside the jail. It is learnt that the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) DIG Anshuman Bhomiya of Rajasthan Police had then flagged the threat to the Additional Director General of Police (Security) of Rajasthan, asking him to take further action. The Punjab Police has launched a special operation by strengthening check posts at all interstate borders. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Jitendra Choubey By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: For the past three years, the stray dog menace has been on the rise in the country. The latest data shows that approximately six people face dog bites every minute in the country.

Moreover, India has also become the capital of rabies-related deaths  over 36 per cent of the worlds deaths due to rabies occur in India alone, as per the WHO Association for the Prevention and Control of Rabies in India (APCRI)-2004 study.

The number of dog bites per day has been increasing since 2021 and has almost doubled in the last three years. Parshottam Rupala, the Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, informed the Parliament that there were 24.7 lakh reported dog bite incidents from different parts of the country between January and October 2023. The number of dog bite cases was over 17 lakh in 2021 and 21.8 lakh in 2022.

There are some sporadic reports of dog attacks happening in various parts of the country, said Rupala in response to the question from Pratima Mondal, a member of parliament. He further stated that the information made available by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (National Centre for Disease Control) shows a reduction in the number of dog attacks compared to the year 2018.

However, the number of dog bite cases was quite high in 2018. There were over whopping 75 lakh dog bite cases reported in 2018 which decreased to over 72 lakh and 46 lakh in subsequent years 2019 and 2020, respectively. Surprisingly, then after number of dog bite cases sharply declined by more than twice.

The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying Jointly launched the National Action Plan for Dog Mediated Rabies Elimination in the year 2021.

In March, the Central Government notified the Animal Birth Control Rules 2023 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. The new rule was made after reviewing two decades-old rules on the direction of the Supreme Court.

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NEW DELHI: For the past three years, the stray dog menace has been on the rise in the country. The latest data shows that approximately six people face dog bites every minute in the country. Moreover, India has also become the capital of rabies-related deaths  over 36 per cent of the worlds deaths due to rabies occur in India alone, as per the WHO Association for the Prevention and Control of Rabies in India (APCRI)-2004 study. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The number of dog bites per day has been increasing since 2021 and has almost doubled in the last three years. Parshottam Rupala, the Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, informed the Parliament that there were 24.7 lakh reported dog bite incidents from different parts of the country between January and October 2023. The number of dog bite cases was over 17 lakh in 2021 and 21.8 lakh in 2022. There are some sporadic reports of dog attacks happening in various parts of the country, said Rupala in response to the question from Pratima Mondal, a member of parliament. He further stated that the information made available by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (National Centre for Disease Control) shows a reduction in the number of dog attacks compared to the year 2018. However, the number of dog bite cases was quite high in 2018. There were over whopping 75 lakh dog bite cases reported in 2018 which decreased to over 72 lakh and 46 lakh in subsequent years 2019 and 2020, respectively. Surprisingly, then after number of dog bite cases sharply declined by more than twice. The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying Jointly launched the National Action Plan for Dog Mediated Rabies Elimination in the year 2021. In March, the Central Government notified the Animal Birth Control Rules 2023 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. The new rule was made after reviewing two decades-old rules on the direction of the Supreme Court. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Mukesh Ranjan By

Express News Service

RANCHI: Jharkhand High Court has observed that an FIR must be lodged immediately after the incident of cyber fraud is reported to ensure that the hard-earned money of its victims can be refunded.

Hearing a PIL initiated after taking suo-moto cognizance on the reports of increasing incidents of cyber frauds in the state, the Jharkhand High Court on Tuesday also suggested the state government create a corpus fund to refund the money of the victims of cyber frauds.

The division bench of Justice S Chandrashekhar and Justice Anubha Rawat Chaudhary, taking suo-motu cognizance of increasing incidents of cyber fraud on November 10, had issued notices to the state government and the Indian Cyber Crime Control Coordination Center (ISCCCC) of the Union Home Ministry asking them to file an affidavit.

The division bench had also made the Home Secretary, IT Secretary, DG CID, SP CID, etc. as defendants in the case. During the hearing, the court also stressed on developing a mechanism on the lines of Gujarat, so that a refund of the money to the bank accounts of the victims of cyber fraud could be ensured.

As per government records, more than 5,000 cases of cyber fraud are reported in Jharkhand every year. The court was also of the view that there must be a provision so that the name and account number of the person in whose account the money of cyber fraud has been transferred to make it convenient for the police to trace them and seize their accounts immediately.

Earlier, Advocate General Rajeev Ranjan informed the court about the measures taken by the state government to check cyber crimes.

As directed, CID (DG) Anurag Gupta and an ACP rank official appeared in the court on behalf of the state government and central government respectively, and submitted their affidavits. They explained the court about the measures taken by their respective governments to check cyber frauds, said Advocate Piyush Chitresh appearing on behalf of the state government.

The matter will be taken up next on December 18, he said.

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RANCHI: Jharkhand High Court has observed that an FIR must be lodged immediately after the incident of cyber fraud is reported to ensure that the hard-earned money of its victims can be refunded. Hearing a PIL initiated after taking suo-moto cognizance on the reports of increasing incidents of cyber frauds in the state, the Jharkhand High Court on Tuesday also suggested the state government create a corpus fund to refund the money of the victims of cyber frauds. The division bench of Justice S Chandrashekhar and Justice Anubha Rawat Chaudhary, taking suo-motu cognizance of increasing incidents of cyber fraud on November 10, had issued notices to the state government and the Indian Cyber Crime Control Coordination Center (ISCCCC) of the Union Home Ministry asking them to file an affidavit.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The division bench had also made the Home Secretary, IT Secretary, DG CID, SP CID, etc. as defendants in the case. During the hearing, the court also stressed on developing a mechanism on the lines of Gujarat, so that a refund of the money to the bank accounts of the victims of cyber fraud could be ensured. As per government records, more than 5,000 cases of cyber fraud are reported in Jharkhand every year. The court was also of the view that there must be a provision so that the name and account number of the person in whose account the money of cyber fraud has been transferred to make it convenient for the police to trace them and seize their accounts immediately. Earlier, Advocate General Rajeev Ranjan informed the court about the measures taken by the state government to check cyber crimes. As directed, CID (DG) Anurag Gupta and an ACP rank official appeared in the court on behalf of the state government and central government respectively, and submitted their affidavits. They explained the court about the measures taken by their respective governments to check cyber frauds, said Advocate Piyush Chitresh appearing on behalf of the state government. The matter will be taken up next on December 18, he said. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Parvez Sultan By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Gujarat's iconic dance form Garba has found a place in Unescos prestigious intangible cultural heritage list of humanity. Union culture minister G Kishan Reddy on Wednesday made the announcement on micro-blogging site X and stated that it was a proud moment for the country.

Congratulations India. A moment of profound national pride as 'Garba of Gujarat' is inscribed in UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity. This marks the 15th ICH element from India to achieve this prestigious recognition. Garba, a tradition symbolizing celebration, devotion, gender inclusivity, and social equality, transcends geographical boundaries, he posted.

The minister further added that the inscription is testimony to the tireless efforts being made by the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to showcase our rich culture, traditions and heritage to the world.

The intergovernmental committee of UNESCOs 2003 convention on Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage inscribed Garba of Gujarat on the list during its 18th session being held in Botswana.

Excited to share that #Garba of Gujarat is now Indias 15th inscription on the @UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity!, Unescos New Delhi cluster office also posted on X.

Garba is performed on the occasion of Navaratri, which is dedicated to the worship of the feminine energy or Shakti. The dance takes place around a perforated earthenware pot lit with an oil lamp, or an image of the mother goddess Amba, stated the Unesco portal.

Garba fosters social equality by diluting socio-economic, gender and religious structures. It continues to be inclusive of diverse and marginalized communities, thus strengthening social bonds, the description of the dance form on the website further read.

Earlier, Durga Puja in Kolkata (2021), Kumbh Mela (2017) and Yoga (2016) were added to the prestigious list.

India is a signatory of the 2003 UNESCO convention which aims for the safeguarding of intangible heritage along with traditions and living expression. Intangible cultural heritage means the practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, skills  as well as the instruments, objects, artifacts and cultural spaces associated with them that communities, groups and, in some cases, individuals recognize as a part of their cultural heritage.

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NEW DELHI: Gujarat's iconic dance form Garba has found a place in Unescos prestigious intangible cultural heritage list of humanity. Union culture minister G Kishan Reddy on Wednesday made the announcement on micro-blogging site X and stated that it was a proud moment for the country. Congratulations India. A moment of profound national pride as 'Garba of Gujarat' is inscribed in UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity. This marks the 15th ICH element from India to achieve this prestigious recognition. Garba, a tradition symbolizing celebration, devotion, gender inclusivity, and social equality, transcends geographical boundaries, he posted. The minister further added that the inscription is testimony to the tireless efforts being made by the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to showcase our rich culture, traditions and heritage to the world.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The intergovernmental committee of UNESCOs 2003 convention on Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage inscribed Garba of Gujarat on the list during its 18th session being held in Botswana. Excited to share that #Garba of Gujarat is now Indias 15th inscription on the @UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity!, Unescos New Delhi cluster office also posted on X. Garba is performed on the occasion of Navaratri, which is dedicated to the worship of the feminine energy or Shakti. The dance takes place around a perforated earthenware pot lit with an oil lamp, or an image of the mother goddess Amba, stated the Unesco portal. Garba fosters social equality by diluting socio-economic, gender and religious structures. It continues to be inclusive of diverse and marginalized communities, thus strengthening social bonds, the description of the dance form on the website further read. Earlier, Durga Puja in Kolkata (2021), Kumbh Mela (2017) and Yoga (2016) were added to the prestigious list. India is a signatory of the 2003 UNESCO convention which aims for the safeguarding of intangible heritage along with traditions and living expression. Intangible cultural heritage means the practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, skills  as well as the instruments, objects, artifacts and cultural spaces associated with them that communities, groups and, in some cases, individuals recognize as a part of their cultural heritage. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

NEW DELHI: More than 1,500 cases were registered under IPC section 153A that penalises promoting enmity between different groups, including offences of hate speech, across India in 2022, a 31.25 per cent increase from 2021 but a 15.57 per cent decline from 2020, according to the NCRB.

Last year, the maximum of these 1,523 cases were lodged in Uttar Pradesh (217) followed by Rajasthan (191), Maharashtra (178), Tamil Nadu (146), Telangana (119), Andhra Pradesh (109), and Madhya Pradesh (108), the data showed.

The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), which functions under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, is tasked with the collection and analysis of crime data from all states and union territories, the figures of which are published annually in its report.

In 2022, nine states registered over 100 cases under IPC section 153A, while in 2021 there were just two states - Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh - with such offences in three digits. Both Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh had reported 108 IPC 153A offences in 2021, according to the data.

ALSO READ | Over 1,000 cases of child marriage in India in 2022: NCRB

In 2020, there were seven states with over 100 such cases each - Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh. A maximum of 303 cases were reported in Tamil Nadu in 2020, the NCRB data from the corresponding year showed.

In 2022, the number of such offences nearly tripled to 108 in Madhya Pradesh from 38 in 2021. The state had recorded 73 such cases in 2020, official figures showed.

In some states, the figures increased to more than double in 2022 from 2021, like Uttar Pradesh (217 and 108), Maharashtra (178 and 75), Rajasthan (191 and 83), and Gujarat (40 and 11).

Assam, which had reported 147 offences under IPC 153A in 2020, registered 75 cases in 2021 and last year the figure came down to 44, according to the NCRB report.

The national capital Delhi recorded 26 cases in 2022, 17 in 2021 and 36 in 2020. Jammu and Kashmir showed 16 such offences in 2022, 28 in 2021 and 22 in 2020, the official data revealed.

ALSO READ | Delhi tops 19 metros in rape cases: NCRB data

In a note of caution about the annual report, the NCRB said the primary presumption that the upward swing in police data indicates an increase in crime and thus a reflection of the ineffectiveness of the police is fallacious. "'Rise in crime' and 'increase in registration of crime by police' are clearly two different things, a fact which requires better understanding. Thus an oft-repeated expectation from certain quarters that an effective police administration will be able to keep the crime figures low is misplaced," it stated.

"Increase in crime numbers in a state police data may in fact be on account of certain citizen-centric police initiatives, like launching of e-FIR facility or women helpdesks," it said.

"The increase or decrease in crime numbers, however, does call for a professional investigation of underlying factors pertaining to the local communities to suitably address the pertinent issues," it added.

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NEW DELHI: More than 1,500 cases were registered under IPC section 153A that penalises promoting enmity between different groups, including offences of hate speech, across India in 2022, a 31.25 per cent increase from 2021 but a 15.57 per cent decline from 2020, according to the NCRB. Last year, the maximum of these 1,523 cases were lodged in Uttar Pradesh (217) followed by Rajasthan (191), Maharashtra (178), Tamil Nadu (146), Telangana (119), Andhra Pradesh (109), and Madhya Pradesh (108), the data showed. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), which functions under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, is tasked with the collection and analysis of crime data from all states and union territories, the figures of which are published annually in its report.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); In 2022, nine states registered over 100 cases under IPC section 153A, while in 2021 there were just two states - Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh - with such offences in three digits. Both Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh had reported 108 IPC 153A offences in 2021, according to the data. ALSO READ | Over 1,000 cases of child marriage in India in 2022: NCRB In 2020, there were seven states with over 100 such cases each - Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh. A maximum of 303 cases were reported in Tamil Nadu in 2020, the NCRB data from the corresponding year showed. In 2022, the number of such offences nearly tripled to 108 in Madhya Pradesh from 38 in 2021. The state had recorded 73 such cases in 2020, official figures showed. In some states, the figures increased to more than double in 2022 from 2021, like Uttar Pradesh (217 and 108), Maharashtra (178 and 75), Rajasthan (191 and 83), and Gujarat (40 and 11). Assam, which had reported 147 offences under IPC 153A in 2020, registered 75 cases in 2021 and last year the figure came down to 44, according to the NCRB report. The national capital Delhi recorded 26 cases in 2022, 17 in 2021 and 36 in 2020. Jammu and Kashmir showed 16 such offences in 2022, 28 in 2021 and 22 in 2020, the official data revealed. ALSO READ | Delhi tops 19 metros in rape cases: NCRB data In a note of caution about the annual report, the NCRB said the primary presumption that the upward swing in police data indicates an increase in crime and thus a reflection of the ineffectiveness of the police is fallacious. "'Rise in crime' and 'increase in registration of crime by police' are clearly two different things, a fact which requires better understanding. Thus an oft-repeated expectation from certain quarters that an effective police administration will be able to keep the crime figures low is misplaced," it stated. "Increase in crime numbers in a state police data may in fact be on account of certain citizen-centric police initiatives, like launching of e-FIR facility or women helpdesks," it said. "The increase or decrease in crime numbers, however, does call for a professional investigation of underlying factors pertaining to the local communities to suitably address the pertinent issues," it added. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Yeshi Seli By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: India on Wednesday expressed interest in acquiring more cheetahs from Kenya, a proposal initiated by the Environment Ministry during the state visit of Kenyan President, Dr. William Samoei Ruto.

Details regarding the desired number of cheetahs that India seeks, the potential supply from Kenya, and the timeline for the acquisition have not been discussed yet. However, an official from the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the Environment Ministry has formally requested the cheetahs Currently, Kuno National Park is home to 15 surviving cheetahs.

During the visit, India and Kenya signed five Memoranda of Understanding covering agriculture, healthcare, and other sectors. Discussions also included topics such as maritime security, healthcare, and education. Kenya has chosen to join the Global Bio fuels Alliance, Big Cats Alliance, and International Solar Alliance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, I am glad that Kenya has decided to join the Global Bio fuels Alliance, Big Cat Alliance, and International Solar Alliance. We will be able to strengthen global efforts for the conservation of big cats.

India has committed to providing an additional $100 million line of credit to Kenya for agricultural projects, including support through the provision of machinery, bringing the total line of credit to $250 million. During the visit, President Ruto met with PM Modi and President Draupadi Murmu. PM Modi emphasised the unanimous agreement between India and Kenya on considering terrorism as the most serious challenge to humanity. In response, both countries have decided to enhance mutual cooperation in the field of counter-terrorism.

India also raised the issue of 2 Indian nationals who went missing in Kenya in July 2022. Identified as Zulfiqar A Khan and Zaid S Kidwai who were reportedly abducted. President Ruto commended Indias digital advancements, announcing Kenyas intention to sign agreements in the digital space.

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NEW DELHI: India on Wednesday expressed interest in acquiring more cheetahs from Kenya, a proposal initiated by the Environment Ministry during the state visit of Kenyan President, Dr. William Samoei Ruto. Details regarding the desired number of cheetahs that India seeks, the potential supply from Kenya, and the timeline for the acquisition have not been discussed yet. However, an official from the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the Environment Ministry has formally requested the cheetahs Currently, Kuno National Park is home to 15 surviving cheetahs. During the visit, India and Kenya signed five Memoranda of Understanding covering agriculture, healthcare, and other sectors. Discussions also included topics such as maritime security, healthcare, and education. Kenya has chosen to join the Global Bio fuels Alliance, Big Cats Alliance, and International Solar Alliance.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, I am glad that Kenya has decided to join the Global Bio fuels Alliance, Big Cat Alliance, and International Solar Alliance. We will be able to strengthen global efforts for the conservation of big cats. India has committed to providing an additional $100 million line of credit to Kenya for agricultural projects, including support through the provision of machinery, bringing the total line of credit to $250 million. During the visit, President Ruto met with PM Modi and President Draupadi Murmu. PM Modi emphasised the unanimous agreement between India and Kenya on considering terrorism as the most serious challenge to humanity. In response, both countries have decided to enhance mutual cooperation in the field of counter-terrorism. India also raised the issue of 2 Indian nationals who went missing in Kenya in July 2022. Identified as Zulfiqar A Khan and Zaid S Kidwai who were reportedly abducted. President Ruto commended Indias digital advancements, announcing Kenyas intention to sign agreements in the digital space. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Dilip Singh Kshatriya By

Express News Service

AHMEDABAD: Two Bihar workers died of asphyxiation after a chemical spill at a facility in Gujarat's Valsad district on Tuesday, the second major incident in only fifteen days. On November 28, Nine persons were Killed and 24 workers sustained burn injuries in an explosion at Ether Chemical Industry at Sachin GIDC, Surat.

According to statistics, such incidents continue to occur in Gujarat. Gujarat Government official data says, about 700 workers have died and 213 were injured in the 587 industrial accidents that occurred in Gujarat over the last three fiscal years.

According to data presented by the Gujarat government in response to a question posed by Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani during the Last Monsoon Session of the Gujarat Assembly, the number of industrial accidents increased by 17% between 2020-21 and 2022-23.

In 2022-23, the number of industrial accidents in Gujarat increased from 179 in 2020-21 to 210. The number of fatalities also increased by 15%, from 217 in 2020-21 to 249 in 2022-23.

According to the government, 599 criminal cases for law violations have been filed. From 2020 to 2023 (three years), the government has received 16,770 complaints of industrial worker exploitation.

These complaints have increased by nearly 23%, from 5,063 in 2020-21 to 6,209 in 2022-23, according to the written response to a question posed by a Congress MLA in the assembly.

Dr. Manish Doshi, the spokesperson for the Gujarat Congress, accused the government, saying, "Factory safety and fire safety rules are not being followed in Gujarat, and the government is in sleep mode instead of running during accidents, which results in workers losing their lives."

The government has allotted posts for checking industrial factories, but most of these positions remain vacant.

According to the STANDARD REFERENCE NOTE - 2022 (Ministry of Labor & Employment, Directorate General Factory Advice Service & Labor Institutes) report, 153 factory inspectors were allotted to Gujarat until 2021, with only 78 working.

Even though five medical factory inspector positions have been allocated for Gujarat, these posts remain vacant.

Similarly, four Chemical Factory Inspector positions have been assigned, but only one has been filled. Four positions of Hygiene Factory Inspector have been allotted, but no one has been appointed.

According to the report, there are 48,920 factories registered in Gujarat, of which 36,750 are operational. These factories employ 19,83,431 people, with 2,01,640 of them being women.

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AHMEDABAD: Two Bihar workers died of asphyxiation after a chemical spill at a facility in Gujarat's Valsad district on Tuesday, the second major incident in only fifteen days. On November 28, Nine persons were Killed and 24 workers sustained burn injuries in an explosion at Ether Chemical Industry at Sachin GIDC, Surat. According to statistics, such incidents continue to occur in Gujarat. Gujarat Government official data says, about 700 workers have died and 213 were injured in the 587 industrial accidents that occurred in Gujarat over the last three fiscal years. According to data presented by the Gujarat government in response to a question posed by Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani during the Last Monsoon Session of the Gujarat Assembly, the number of industrial accidents increased by 17% between 2020-21 and 2022-23.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); In 2022-23, the number of industrial accidents in Gujarat increased from 179 in 2020-21 to 210. The number of fatalities also increased by 15%, from 217 in 2020-21 to 249 in 2022-23. According to the government, 599 criminal cases for law violations have been filed. From 2020 to 2023 (three years), the government has received 16,770 complaints of industrial worker exploitation. These complaints have increased by nearly 23%, from 5,063 in 2020-21 to 6,209 in 2022-23, according to the written response to a question posed by a Congress MLA in the assembly. Dr. Manish Doshi, the spokesperson for the Gujarat Congress, accused the government, saying, "Factory safety and fire safety rules are not being followed in Gujarat, and the government is in sleep mode instead of running during accidents, which results in workers losing their lives." The government has allotted posts for checking industrial factories, but most of these positions remain vacant. According to the STANDARD REFERENCE NOTE - 2022 (Ministry of Labor & Employment, Directorate General Factory Advice Service & Labor Institutes) report, 153 factory inspectors were allotted to Gujarat until 2021, with only 78 working. Even though five medical factory inspector positions have been allocated for Gujarat, these posts remain vacant. Similarly, four Chemical Factory Inspector positions have been assigned, but only one has been filled. Four positions of Hygiene Factory Inspector have been allotted, but no one has been appointed. According to the report, there are 48,920 factories registered in Gujarat, of which 36,750 are operational. These factories employ 19,83,431 people, with 2,01,640 of them being women. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
HARPREET BAJWA By

Express News Service

CHANDIGARH: Jawaria Khanam, 21, from Pakistans Karachi today crossed into India via the Attari-Wagah border near Amritsar to unite with her fiancee Sameer Khan from West Bengal and then flew to Kolkata where Khan lives.

They will be marrying next month. Khanam has come on a 45-day visa to India. Jawaria faced many hurdles before she got the Indian visa. She found the support of a Punjab-based social activist, who helped her secure the visa.

She was warmly received by Sameer and his father Ahmed Kamal Khan Yousufzai at the joint border check post. The couple will marry as per Islamic traditions. Javaria said she was over the moon and couldnt believe she arrived in India to marry her choice of groom. The family hopes that her 45-day visa will be extended. She thanked the Indian government for granting her the visa. She also thanked social activist Maqbool Ahmed of Qadian in Punjab. My dream is about to come true due to his support.

Sameer said they plan a wedding party on January 6. I helped Jawaria Khanam to get the visa. Her as well as her parents request for the visa was earlier turned down twice. Last year in September, Sameer contacted me and asked for my help. I guided them and also did the paperwork for the visa. She applied for the visa in August this year and got it in the last week of November, said Maqbool Ahmed.

Sameer liked her when he saw her photo on his mothers mobile phone as they are distant relatives. He wants to get married to her. In 2018 they got engaged online and then their families met for the first time in Thailand for the engagement, said Ahmed. Sameers family owns a leather export business in Kolkata and Jawarias father is a homeopathic doctor in Karachi.

Engaged in 2018

Activist Maqbool Ahmed, who helped the couple with paper work, said Sameer liked her when he saw her photo on his mothers phone as they are distant relatives. In 2018 they got engaged online and then their families met for the first time in Thailand for the engagement. Sameers family owns a leather export business in Kolkata

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CHANDIGARH: Jawaria Khanam, 21, from Pakistans Karachi today crossed into India via the Attari-Wagah border near Amritsar to unite with her fiancee Sameer Khan from West Bengal and then flew to Kolkata where Khan lives. They will be marrying next month. Khanam has come on a 45-day visa to India. Jawaria faced many hurdles before she got the Indian visa. She found the support of a Punjab-based social activist, who helped her secure the visa. She was warmly received by Sameer and his father Ahmed Kamal Khan Yousufzai at the joint border check post. The couple will marry as per Islamic traditions. Javaria said she was over the moon and couldnt believe she arrived in India to marry her choice of groom. The family hopes that her 45-day visa will be extended. She thanked the Indian government for granting her the visa. She also thanked social activist Maqbool Ahmed of Qadian in Punjab. My dream is about to come true due to his support.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Sameer said they plan a wedding party on January 6. I helped Jawaria Khanam to get the visa. Her as well as her parents request for the visa was earlier turned down twice. Last year in September, Sameer contacted me and asked for my help. I guided them and also did the paperwork for the visa. She applied for the visa in August this year and got it in the last week of November, said Maqbool Ahmed. Sameer liked her when he saw her photo on his mothers mobile phone as they are distant relatives. He wants to get married to her. In 2018 they got engaged online and then their families met for the first time in Thailand for the engagement, said Ahmed. Sameers family owns a leather export business in Kolkata and Jawarias father is a homeopathic doctor in Karachi. Engaged in 2018 Activist Maqbool Ahmed, who helped the couple with paper work, said Sameer liked her when he saw her photo on his mothers phone as they are distant relatives. In 2018 they got engaged online and then their families met for the first time in Thailand for the engagement. Sameers family owns a leather export business in Kolkata Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Parvez Sultan By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The meeting of the INDIA bloc scheduled on Wednesday will go ahead as planned, though many alliance partners wont be attending. Another meeting has been scheduled in the third week of December, in which all the coalition partners are expected to take part.

Wednesdays meet, reportedly scheduled by the Congress without consulting other parties, will take place at the residence of party president Mallikarjun Kharge. Top leaders of opposition parties, including Trinamool Congress (TMC), Samajwadi Party (SP), Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), and Janata Dal-United (JDU) will be conspicuous by their absence.

However, the alliance partners will meet later this month to discuss the formation of strategy and seat-sharing arrangements for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In a snub to the Congress for ignoring other INDIA partners during the recent state elections, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav had on Monday ruled out attending Wednesdays meet.

According to JD(U) leaders, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is unable to travel to Delhi on Wednesday as he is down with fever. His Tamil Nadu counterpart M K Stalin will also skip it as he is busy with cyclone relief measures.

Leaders will meet on December 17: Lalu

RJD president Lalu Prasad said on Tuesday that the top leaders of the INDIA bloc will be meeting on December 17 to chalk out the strategy for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls

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NEW DELHI: The meeting of the INDIA bloc scheduled on Wednesday will go ahead as planned, though many alliance partners wont be attending. Another meeting has been scheduled in the third week of December, in which all the coalition partners are expected to take part. Wednesdays meet, reportedly scheduled by the Congress without consulting other parties, will take place at the residence of party president Mallikarjun Kharge. Top leaders of opposition parties, including Trinamool Congress (TMC), Samajwadi Party (SP), Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), and Janata Dal-United (JDU) will be conspicuous by their absence. However, the alliance partners will meet later this month to discuss the formation of strategy and seat-sharing arrangements for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In a snub to the Congress for ignoring other INDIA partners during the recent state elections, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav had on Monday ruled out attending Wednesdays meet. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); According to JD(U) leaders, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is unable to travel to Delhi on Wednesday as he is down with fever. His Tamil Nadu counterpart M K Stalin will also skip it as he is busy with cyclone relief measures. Leaders will meet on December 17: Lalu RJD president Lalu Prasad said on Tuesday that the top leaders of the INDIA bloc will be meeting on December 17 to chalk out the strategy for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Hong Kong: Logistics chief tours terminal

Secretary for Transport & Logistics Lam Sai-hung and his delegation of Hong Kong Maritime & Port Board members visited an automated terminal in Shanghai and met the management of Shanghai Maritime University (SMU) today.

At the Yangshan Phase IV Automated Terminal in Shanghai this morning, Mr Lam and the delegation met the terminal's representatives to discuss collaboration opportunities between Hong Kong and Yangshan Port.

They also received a briefing on various terminal facilities, including the intelligential operation of the digital twin terminals.

Mr Lam and the delegation then met the management of SMU and the Shanghai International Shipping Institute (SISI).

During the meeting, representatives of SMU shared their experiences in building a maritime talent pool, while SISI representatives gave a presentation on its role in promoting Shanghai's innovation-driven development by acting as a knowledge service platform for the tertiary education sector.

In the afternoon, Mr Lam paid a visit to China COSCO Shipping Corporation to learn more about its operation and highlight Hong Kong's latest developments on maritime, ports and logistics.

He pointed out that Hong Kong and Shanghai are respectively the southern and eastern gateways linking the motherland and the world. The two cities, leveraging the geographical advantages of the Pearl River Delta and Yangtze River Delta hinterlands to drive freight transport through export trade, serve as pivotal ports both in the Asia-Pacific region and throughout the globe.

The logistics chief added that he expects collaboration between Hong Kong and Shanghai in maritime and port services can be strengthened, and that closer ties in maritime manpower training can be fostered through this visit, with a view to promoting the maritime and port development of the country together.

Mr Lam arrived in Hangzhou in the evening to continue the visit.

This story has been published on: 2023-12-06. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
A Buffalo man is out on bail after being charged last week by state police with 13 felony child pornography counts and illegally possessing five handguns, according to troopers and court records.

David B. Herby, 48, also was found with a replica police badge and three bulletproof vests, state police said.

Herby has previous convictions in New York and Pennsylvania, troopers said.

He was charged with three counts of promoting a sexual performance by a child and 10 counts of possessing a sexual performance by a child, according to Buffalo City Court records. He also faces 12 weapons counts, as well as two misdemeanor charges of unlawfully purchasing body armor.

Police arrested Herby on Nov. 29. He pleaded not guilty at his arraignment.

City Court Judge Samuel Davis set bail in the weapons case at $35,000 cash or bond. He set bail in the pornography case at $5,000 cash or bond.

 Aaron Besecker
By ANI

NEW DELHI: Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Farooq Abdullah defended the first PM of the country, Jawaharlal Nehru after Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday blamed Nehru for "two major blunders"  one of them for taking the Kashmir issue to the United Nations  saying that there was no other way but to take up the issue with the UN.

Speaking to the reporters here, the National Conference (NC) President said that Lord Mountbatten and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had also suggested that this should go to the United Nations. "There was no other way than this; Lord Mountbatten and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had also suggested that this should go to the United Nations," Abdullah said.

He further said that Poonch and Rajouri would have also gone to Pakistan if the army was not diverted to save the regions. "At that time, the army was diverted to save Poonch and Rajouri. If it had not been done, Poonch and Rajouri would have also gone to Pakistan," he added.

In a fiery session in the Lok Sabha, Shah made headlines by claiming that if Jawaharlal Nehru had taken the right steps, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) would be an integral part of India today.

Amit Shah deemed Jawaharlal Nehru's decisions during his tenure as prime minister, particularly the announcement of a ceasefire and involving the Kashmir issue in the United Nations, as historic blunders that inflicted significant suffering on Jammu and Kashmir.

Replying to a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, Shah said if Nehru had taken the right steps, a large chunk of territory would not have been ceded and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir would have been part of India.

"I support the word that was used hereNehruvian blunder. Because of the blunder that was committed during the time of Nehru, Kashmir had to suffer. With responsibility, I want to say that the two big blunders that happened during the tenure of Jawaharlal Nehru happened due to his decisions, because of which Kashmir had to suffer for years," Shah said.

"Kashmir had to suffer due to Nehruvian blunders. One was that when our Army was winning and as soon as the Punjab area was reached, a ceasefire was declared and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir was born. If the ceasefire had been declared three days later, PoK would have been part of India," the home minister said.

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NEW DELHI: Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Farooq Abdullah defended the first PM of the country, Jawaharlal Nehru after Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday blamed Nehru for "two major blunders"  one of them for taking the Kashmir issue to the United Nations  saying that there was no other way but to take up the issue with the UN. Speaking to the reporters here, the National Conference (NC) President said that Lord Mountbatten and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had also suggested that this should go to the United Nations. "There was no other way than this; Lord Mountbatten and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had also suggested that this should go to the United Nations," Abdullah said. He further said that Poonch and Rajouri would have also gone to Pakistan if the army was not diverted to save the regions. "At that time, the army was diverted to save Poonch and Rajouri. If it had not been done, Poonch and Rajouri would have also gone to Pakistan," he added.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); In a fiery session in the Lok Sabha, Shah made headlines by claiming that if Jawaharlal Nehru had taken the right steps, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) would be an integral part of India today. Amit Shah deemed Jawaharlal Nehru's decisions during his tenure as prime minister, particularly the announcement of a ceasefire and involving the Kashmir issue in the United Nations, as historic blunders that inflicted significant suffering on Jammu and Kashmir. Replying to a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, Shah said if Nehru had taken the right steps, a large chunk of territory would not have been ceded and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir would have been part of India. "I support the word that was used hereNehruvian blunder. Because of the blunder that was committed during the time of Nehru, Kashmir had to suffer. With responsibility, I want to say that the two big blunders that happened during the tenure of Jawaharlal Nehru happened due to his decisions, because of which Kashmir had to suffer for years," Shah said. "Kashmir had to suffer due to Nehruvian blunders. One was that when our Army was winning and as soon as the Punjab area was reached, a ceasefire was declared and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir was born. If the ceasefire had been declared three days later, PoK would have been part of India," the home minister said. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Express News Service

KOLKATA: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday said she told Rahul Gandhi when he called her two days ago that no one had invited her to the INDIA bloc meeting at the residence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge which was cancelled later.

The Bengal CM made it clear that she would attend the opposition blocs next meet but added that alliance partners should be informed at least seven to 10 days prior to it.

Rahulji called me day before yesterday and told me about the meeting. I told him that nobody told me and I had no information about the meeting. I had my scheduled programme. It is also true for other chief ministers. Sometimes, they also have to follow their scheduled programmes. It is difficult for them if they are not informed about the meeting seven or 10 days ago, said Mamata at the Kolkata airport before setting out on her six-day north Bengal tour.

In response to Union rural development minister Giriraj Singhs statement in Parliament that the Bengal CM should directly meet Narendra Modi over the issue of Bengals dues from the Centre, Mamata also said that she would shortly meet the Prime Minister.

Earlier, I met the Prime Minister three times protesting against deprivation of Bengal by the Centre. I have written letters to him as well. We have planned our Delhi Chalo programme and sought permission from Delhi police for a sit-in-demonstration event. We are waiting for the permission. When we go to Delhi, we will seek time from the Prime Minister for the meeting, she added.

After the Congresss debacle in the elections in Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh and Rajasthan, it was Mamata who lambasted it first, saying this was a defeat of the party not the people. She also blamed the Congress for not sharing seats with partners of the INDIA bloc, which has been formed to combat the BJP in next years Lok Sabha polls.

ALSO READ | Leaders of 'INDIA' bloc to meet on December 17 to chalk out plans for 2024: RJD chief Lalu

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KOLKATA: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday said she told Rahul Gandhi when he called her two days ago that no one had invited her to the INDIA bloc meeting at the residence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge which was cancelled later. The Bengal CM made it clear that she would attend the opposition blocs next meet but added that alliance partners should be informed at least seven to 10 days prior to it. Rahulji called me day before yesterday and told me about the meeting. I told him that nobody told me and I had no information about the meeting. I had my scheduled programme. It is also true for other chief ministers. Sometimes, they also have to follow their scheduled programmes. It is difficult for them if they are not informed about the meeting seven or 10 days ago, said Mamata at the Kolkata airport before setting out on her six-day north Bengal tour. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); In response to Union rural development minister Giriraj Singhs statement in Parliament that the Bengal CM should directly meet Narendra Modi over the issue of Bengals dues from the Centre, Mamata also said that she would shortly meet the Prime Minister. Earlier, I met the Prime Minister three times protesting against deprivation of Bengal by the Centre. I have written letters to him as well. We have planned our Delhi Chalo programme and sought permission from Delhi police for a sit-in-demonstration event. We are waiting for the permission. When we go to Delhi, we will seek time from the Prime Minister for the meeting, she added. After the Congresss debacle in the elections in Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh and Rajasthan, it was Mamata who lambasted it first, saying this was a defeat of the party not the people. She also blamed the Congress for not sharing seats with partners of the INDIA bloc, which has been formed to combat the BJP in next years Lok Sabha polls. ALSO READ | Leaders of 'INDIA' bloc to meet on December 17 to chalk out plans for 2024: RJD chief Lalu Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Rajesh Kumar Thakur By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Flush with victories in the recent Assembly polls in three states, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cautioned opposition parties against running divisive agendas, and asked the people to remain on guard against divisive politics.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, the PM taunted the Opposition that while it might be complacent with arrogance, lies, pessimism and ignorance, the people should be aware of a divisive agenda. Old habits of 70 years cannot go away so easily, he said.

He said the Opposition could face many more such meltdowns (an apparent reference to the Congress defeat in the assembly polls) in the coming days too. Modi was reacting to a an X post captioned Meltdown-e-Azam (great meltdown) of a news clip that cited excuses and alleged attempts by an ecosystem to stoke regional divide and insult voters in Hindi-speaking states after the BJP swept to power in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, brushing aside the challenge from the Congress. The Congress drew some consolation by winning the assembly polls in Telangana.

May they be happy with their arrogance, lies, pessimism and ignorance. Such is the wisdom of the people that they have to be prepared for many more meltdowns ahead, Modi remarked in a post on X, tagging a video clip of a news item captioned Meltdown-e-Azam. A day after the resounding victories in assembly elections, the PM had cautioned the Opposition to shun negativity in politics and move with a mindset of positivity.

Addressing the party workers from BJP central office, Modi predicted that a hat-trick of the 2023 assembly polls was a guarantee of such a hat-trick in the 2024 parliamentary elections. BJP leaders said the PMs post reflects the party turning up the heat in its social media outreach in recent months.

This post of the Prime Minister is aggressive and takes the opposition ecosystem head on, a leader said. He said this has been the case with the BJPs content on social media in general too for the last few months now.

Meltdown-e-Azam

May they be happy with their arrogance, lies, pessimism and ignorance. Such is the wisdom of the people that they have to be prepared for many more meltdowns ahead, Modi remarked in a post on X, tagging a video clip of a news item captioned Meltdown-e-Azam.

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NEW DELHI: Flush with victories in the recent Assembly polls in three states, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cautioned opposition parties against running divisive agendas, and asked the people to remain on guard against divisive politics. Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, the PM taunted the Opposition that while it might be complacent with arrogance, lies, pessimism and ignorance, the people should be aware of a divisive agenda. Old habits of 70 years cannot go away so easily, he said. He said the Opposition could face many more such meltdowns (an apparent reference to the Congress defeat in the assembly polls) in the coming days too. Modi was reacting to a an X post captioned Meltdown-e-Azam (great meltdown) of a news clip that cited excuses and alleged attempts by an ecosystem to stoke regional divide and insult voters in Hindi-speaking states after the BJP swept to power in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, brushing aside the challenge from the Congress. The Congress drew some consolation by winning the assembly polls in Telangana.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); May they be happy with their arrogance, lies, pessimism and ignorance. Such is the wisdom of the people that they have to be prepared for many more meltdowns ahead, Modi remarked in a post on X, tagging a video clip of a news item captioned Meltdown-e-Azam. A day after the resounding victories in assembly elections, the PM had cautioned the Opposition to shun negativity in politics and move with a mindset of positivity. Addressing the party workers from BJP central office, Modi predicted that a hat-trick of the 2023 assembly polls was a guarantee of such a hat-trick in the 2024 parliamentary elections. BJP leaders said the PMs post reflects the party turning up the heat in its social media outreach in recent months. This post of the Prime Minister is aggressive and takes the opposition ecosystem head on, a leader said. He said this has been the case with the BJPs content on social media in general too for the last few months now. Meltdown-e-Azam May they be happy with their arrogance, lies, pessimism and ignorance. Such is the wisdom of the people that they have to be prepared for many more meltdowns ahead, Modi remarked in a post on X, tagging a video clip of a news item captioned Meltdown-e-Azam. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Suchitra Kalyan Mohanty By

Express News Service

The Supreme Court on Wednesday expressed its displeasure over the Centre's "lackadaisical attitude" in framing guidelines for the search and seizure of personal digital devices by police and central agencies during raids.

"What have you (Centre) done so far? It has been more than two years in this particular PIL," remarked a two-judge bench of Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Sudhanshu Dhulia.

The top court made these observations and remarks on the PIL filed by the Foundation for Media Professionals (FMP).

The petitioner, FMP, had requested the court to establish safeguards and create a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) against any kind of unreasonable professional and personal interference by law enforcement agencies.

The FMP also sought a directive from the top court to the concerned authorities and probe agencies to create comprehensive guidelines for the search and seizure of digital devices.

During the course of the hearing, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) V Raju, senior lawyer appearing for the Union of India, told the top court that a committee has been formed for the purpose, and the central government would require more time to formulate the guidelines.

He also assured the Supreme Court that the guidelines will be framed soon to regulate the seizure of phones or other digital devices belonging to individuals, particularly media professionals.

The bench, however, questioned the two-year delay by the government since the filing of the petition before it and said, When did we issue notice? Some time frame has to be followed. Two years have passed.

ASG assured the apex court that the guidelines would be ready by the next week.

"Get it done," the bench said and posted the matter for further hearing to December 14.

Senior advocate Nitya Ramakrishnan, appearing for the petitioners, urged the top court for urgent need for guidelines and suggested that copies of necessary data on devices could be taken instead of seizing the entire content.

She pointed out that 300 journalists were raided in relation to the recent Newsclick case.

During the last hearing, the top court remarked that there should be guidelines in place to govern the search and seizure of phones and other digital devices and media professionals could have confidential information or details about their sources on their devices.

The petition had stated the increasing reliance on personal digital devices by media professionals for their journalistic work, which often involves handling confidential information of public value, private correspondence with sources and whistle-blowers, and remote collaboration to break news stories in the public interest.

The petitioner has argued that it has a specific interest in advocating for adequate legal safeguards for the right to privacy in the digital space.

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The Supreme Court on Wednesday expressed its displeasure over the Centre's "lackadaisical attitude" in framing guidelines for the search and seizure of personal digital devices by police and central agencies during raids. "What have you (Centre) done so far? It has been more than two years in this particular PIL," remarked a two-judge bench of Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Sudhanshu Dhulia. The top court made these observations and remarks on the PIL filed by the Foundation for Media Professionals (FMP).googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The petitioner, FMP, had requested the court to establish safeguards and create a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) against any kind of unreasonable professional and personal interference by law enforcement agencies. The FMP also sought a directive from the top court to the concerned authorities and probe agencies to create comprehensive guidelines for the search and seizure of digital devices. During the course of the hearing, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) V Raju, senior lawyer appearing for the Union of India, told the top court that a committee has been formed for the purpose, and the central government would require more time to formulate the guidelines. He also assured the Supreme Court that the guidelines will be framed soon to regulate the seizure of phones or other digital devices belonging to individuals, particularly media professionals. The bench, however, questioned the two-year delay by the government since the filing of the petition before it and said, When did we issue notice? Some time frame has to be followed. Two years have passed. ASG assured the apex court that the guidelines would be ready by the next week. "Get it done," the bench said and posted the matter for further hearing to December 14. Senior advocate Nitya Ramakrishnan, appearing for the petitioners, urged the top court for urgent need for guidelines and suggested that copies of necessary data on devices could be taken instead of seizing the entire content. She pointed out that 300 journalists were raided in relation to the recent Newsclick case. During the last hearing, the top court remarked that there should be guidelines in place to govern the search and seizure of phones and other digital devices and media professionals could have confidential information or details about their sources on their devices. The petition had stated the increasing reliance on personal digital devices by media professionals for their journalistic work, which often involves handling confidential information of public value, private correspondence with sources and whistle-blowers, and remote collaboration to break news stories in the public interest. The petitioner has argued that it has a specific interest in advocating for adequate legal safeguards for the right to privacy in the digital space. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Suchitra Kalyan Mohanty By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: India's top court restored a cheating case lodged by the Gujarat Police against fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi and his wife Priti, and reversed a 2017 order of the state high court quashing the FIR against them.

According to the FIR registered in 2015 in Gujarat by complainant Digvijaysinh Himmatsinh Jadeja, Choksi and his wife stand accused of offences of forgery and cheating in connection with a business transaction involving 24 karat pure gold bars worth Rs 30 crore.

A two-judge bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and SVN Bhatti, in its November 29 verdict, set aside a May 5, 2017 order of the high court, and asked the police to proceed with its probe. It also made it clear that the observation in this current order shall not be treated as one on the case's merits.

The bench also remarked that the investigation would continue without the influence of any of the findings made in the impugned judgment or the present order.

The bench said these assertions by Jadeja were disputed factual questions and it would not go into these aspects. "We should not go into these aspects, as it is a matter to be considered and examined in the investigation. A wrong may be civil wrong or in a given case be a civil wrong and equally constitute a criminal offence," the bench said.

The apex court added the ingredients of a criminal offence should be satisfied and the court will refrain from making detailed observations about that. It said while conducting the probe, the investigating officer will keep in mind the rulings of the apex court and various high courts interpreting sections 406 (criminal breach of trust), 420 (cheating), 464 (forgery) and 465 (punishment for forgery) of the Indian Penal Code.

In 2015, Jadeja filed a complaint accusing Choksi's firm of failing to return 105 kg of gold bars worth Rs 30 crore and not paying a minimum guarantee of Rs 19.42 crore. Jadeja accused Choksi of committing a criminal breach of trust by misappropriating the property.

Choksi and his wife had moved the high court seeking quashing of the FIR on the ground that it was a civil dispute and their company had instituted a civil litigation in that regard.

The high court, while quashing the FIR, said it was a civil dispute and no criminal liability could be fastened on them. It had directed the civil court to expeditiously dispose of the suit before it within a period of one year. Aggrieved by the order, Jadeja challenged it in the apex court.

Claiming innocence in the case, Choksi had pled before SC that the agreements were not binding on the company Geetanjali Jewellery Retail Limited (GJRL), a subsidiary of Gitanjali Gems Limited. On the other hand, the appellant (Jadeja) contended that these agreements are valid and binding.

However, the Supreme Court reversed the High Court's judgment observing that it exceeded its jurisdiction under Section 482 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).

The top court also said its attention was drawn to a paragraph in the judgement of the high court where an observation was made concerning Priti Mehul Choksi that a wife could not be said to be involved in a case against her husband vicariously.

"We believe that these observations are general observations to the effect that a wife/spouse could not be said to be involved vicariously. The appellant, Digvijaysinh Himmatsinh Jadeja, submits to the contrary. We would not like to make any comments as it is only upon investigation, that a specific role attributable to respondent, Priti Mehul Choksi, if any, would be ascertained," it said.

Choksi fled India in 2017 following the Punjab National Bank loan scam case. Choksi, along with his nephew Nirav Modi, have been accused of defrauding the bank to the tune of over Rs 14,000 crore.

(with additional inputs from PTI)

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NEW DELHI: India's top court restored a cheating case lodged by the Gujarat Police against fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi and his wife Priti, and reversed a 2017 order of the state high court quashing the FIR against them. According to the FIR registered in 2015 in Gujarat by complainant Digvijaysinh Himmatsinh Jadeja, Choksi and his wife stand accused of offences of forgery and cheating in connection with a business transaction involving 24 karat pure gold bars worth Rs 30 crore. A two-judge bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and SVN Bhatti, in its November 29 verdict, set aside a May 5, 2017 order of the high court, and asked the police to proceed with its probe. It also made it clear that the observation in this current order shall not be treated as one on the case's merits.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The bench also remarked that the investigation would continue without the influence of any of the findings made in the impugned judgment or the present order. The bench said these assertions by Jadeja were disputed factual questions and it would not go into these aspects. "We should not go into these aspects, as it is a matter to be considered and examined in the investigation. A wrong may be civil wrong or in a given case be a civil wrong and equally constitute a criminal offence," the bench said. The apex court added the ingredients of a criminal offence should be satisfied and the court will refrain from making detailed observations about that. It said while conducting the probe, the investigating officer will keep in mind the rulings of the apex court and various high courts interpreting sections 406 (criminal breach of trust), 420 (cheating), 464 (forgery) and 465 (punishment for forgery) of the Indian Penal Code. In 2015, Jadeja filed a complaint accusing Choksi's firm of failing to return 105 kg of gold bars worth Rs 30 crore and not paying a minimum guarantee of Rs 19.42 crore. Jadeja accused Choksi of committing a criminal breach of trust by misappropriating the property. Choksi and his wife had moved the high court seeking quashing of the FIR on the ground that it was a civil dispute and their company had instituted a civil litigation in that regard. The high court, while quashing the FIR, said it was a civil dispute and no criminal liability could be fastened on them. It had directed the civil court to expeditiously dispose of the suit before it within a period of one year. Aggrieved by the order, Jadeja challenged it in the apex court. Claiming innocence in the case, Choksi had pled before SC that the agreements were not binding on the company Geetanjali Jewellery Retail Limited (GJRL), a subsidiary of Gitanjali Gems Limited. On the other hand, the appellant (Jadeja) contended that these agreements are valid and binding. However, the Supreme Court reversed the High Court's judgment observing that it exceeded its jurisdiction under Section 482 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). The top court also said its attention was drawn to a paragraph in the judgement of the high court where an observation was made concerning Priti Mehul Choksi that a wife could not be said to be involved in a case against her husband vicariously. "We believe that these observations are general observations to the effect that a wife/spouse could not be said to be involved vicariously. The appellant, Digvijaysinh Himmatsinh Jadeja, submits to the contrary. We would not like to make any comments as it is only upon investigation, that a specific role attributable to respondent, Priti Mehul Choksi, if any, would be ascertained," it said. Choksi fled India in 2017 following the Punjab National Bank loan scam case. Choksi, along with his nephew Nirav Modi, have been accused of defrauding the bank to the tune of over Rs 14,000 crore. (with additional inputs from PTI) Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Suchitra Kalyan Mohanty By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: A five-judge constitution bench of the Supreme Court led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dr DY Chandrachud on Tuesday commenced hearing on 17 petitions to examine the constitutional validity of section 6A of the Citizenship Act relating to illegal immigrants in Assam.

Besides the CJI, the four other judges who were part of the bench are Justices Surya Kant, M M Sundresh, J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra. Assam Sanmilita Mahasangha, a Guwahati based NGO along with other petitioners, had challenged Section 6A in SC in 2012. Senior lawyer Shyam Divan, appearing for All Assam Ahom Association and other petitioners, argued that Section 6A is discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal as it provides for different cut-off dates for regularising illegal migrant who entered Assam and the rest of India.

Divan argued that Section 6A violates the basic fabric of the Constitution and the values of secularism, fraternity and brotherhood contained in the Preamble. Divan requested the bench to direct the Centre to frame a court-monitored policy for all states and UTs for the settlement and rehabilitation of all the persons who came to Assam.

The SC asked Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, representing the govt, to inform it whether Section 6A was still in operation and the number of people who have been declared as foreigners till 2013, and fixed the matter for further hearing on Wednesday.

During the hearing today, the apex court said that Section 6A was enacted as a humanitarian measure in the wake of the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War and is deeply interwoven in our history. We cant deny that Section 6A was enacted at a point which is deeply connected to our history. Section 6A was enacted a time when there was a different history, and India had an important role to play in Bangladesh Liberation War, and we were a part of the war as much as Bangladesh.

This was for the atrocities which were being committed on the population of East Bengal then, the CJI observed Section 6A of the Citizenship Act was introduced to give effect to Assam Accord. It provides the framework to recognise migrants in Assam as Indian citizens or to expel them based on the date of their migration.

Also in top court

Surrogacy for unmarried women

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notice to the Centre on a plea challenging the surrogacy provisions which prevents an unmarried woman to avail surrogacy. A 2-judge bench asked the Centre to file its reply on the plea filed by SC lawyer Neeha Nagpal, who said that women should be allowed to have a child without being married.

No stay on trial in Ankita murder case

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to stay the trial in the Ankita Bhandari murder case. A bench headed by Justice Sanjiv Khanna and also comprising Justice S.V.N. Bhatti refused to stay the ongoing trial after hearing a Special Leave Petition filed by one Ashutosh Negi. Ankita was murdered by Pulkit Arya and his aides.

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NEW DELHI: A five-judge constitution bench of the Supreme Court led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dr DY Chandrachud on Tuesday commenced hearing on 17 petitions to examine the constitutional validity of section 6A of the Citizenship Act relating to illegal immigrants in Assam. Besides the CJI, the four other judges who were part of the bench are Justices Surya Kant, M M Sundresh, J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra. Assam Sanmilita Mahasangha, a Guwahati based NGO along with other petitioners, had challenged Section 6A in SC in 2012. Senior lawyer Shyam Divan, appearing for All Assam Ahom Association and other petitioners, argued that Section 6A is discriminatory, arbitrary and illegal as it provides for different cut-off dates for regularising illegal migrant who entered Assam and the rest of India. Divan argued that Section 6A violates the basic fabric of the Constitution and the values of secularism, fraternity and brotherhood contained in the Preamble. Divan requested the bench to direct the Centre to frame a court-monitored policy for all states and UTs for the settlement and rehabilitation of all the persons who came to Assam.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The SC asked Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, representing the govt, to inform it whether Section 6A was still in operation and the number of people who have been declared as foreigners till 2013, and fixed the matter for further hearing on Wednesday. During the hearing today, the apex court said that Section 6A was enacted as a humanitarian measure in the wake of the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War and is deeply interwoven in our history. We cant deny that Section 6A was enacted at a point which is deeply connected to our history. Section 6A was enacted a time when there was a different history, and India had an important role to play in Bangladesh Liberation War, and we were a part of the war as much as Bangladesh. This was for the atrocities which were being committed on the population of East Bengal then, the CJI observed Section 6A of the Citizenship Act was introduced to give effect to Assam Accord. It provides the framework to recognise migrants in Assam as Indian citizens or to expel them based on the date of their migration. Also in top court Surrogacy for unmarried women The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notice to the Centre on a plea challenging the surrogacy provisions which prevents an unmarried woman to avail surrogacy. A 2-judge bench asked the Centre to file its reply on the plea filed by SC lawyer Neeha Nagpal, who said that women should be allowed to have a child without being married. No stay on trial in Ankita murder case The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to stay the trial in the Ankita Bhandari murder case. A bench headed by Justice Sanjiv Khanna and also comprising Justice S.V.N. Bhatti refused to stay the ongoing trial after hearing a Special Leave Petition filed by one Ashutosh Negi. Ankita was murdered by Pulkit Arya and his aides. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Express News Service

BHOPAL: Two days after the BJPs triumph over the Congress in the MP assembly elections, the ruling partys longest-serving CM in the country, Shivraj Singh Chouhan said he was not a contender for the chief ministers post.

I was neither in the race for the CMs post in the past, nor am I a contender for the post now. Im fortunate to be an ordinary BJP worker, he said. Im fortunate to have worked under the leadership of PM Modi, Chouhan said in a video message on Tuesday.

Talking to journalists, Chouhan made it clear that he was not going to Delhi. Im going to Chhindwara on Wednesday, as we failed to win any of the seven assembly seats there. My only resolution is to win all 29 Lok Sabha seats of MP and present a garland of 29 lotuses to PM Modi, to enable him to become the countrys PM again.

Chhindwara has been the pocket-borough of state Congress chief Kamal Nath for over four decades. The Congress won all seven seats of the district in the 2018 assembly polls as well as in the recent polls. Chhindwara was the lone LS seat from MP won by the Congress in 2019 LS polls.

Chouhans latest statements came amid reports about senior state BJP leaders, including Union ministers Narendra Singh Tomar, Prahlad Singh Patel, Jyotiraditya Scindia and state party chief VD Sharma being in Delhi and meeting the national party leadership ahead of the decision on whether Chouhan will be given the fifth term.

Importantly, the saffron party hadnt declared CM face in MP assembly polls and fought the polls with PM Modis face in the center. Instead of having a CM face (despite Chouhan being at the helm of state government), the party had fielded eight heavyweights, including seven MPs, among them three Union ministers, besides partys national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya in the recent assembly polls. This indicated a race for the next CM.

Barring Union minister Faggan Singh Kulaste and fourth-time MP Ganesh Singh, the other five sitting MPs and party national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya won the polls.

EVMs to blame

Some MP Congress MLAs in a meeting in Bhopal blamed EVMs for their defeat. A village in Chhindwara got only 80 votes, said Kamal Nath

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BHOPAL: Two days after the BJPs triumph over the Congress in the MP assembly elections, the ruling partys longest-serving CM in the country, Shivraj Singh Chouhan said he was not a contender for the chief ministers post. I was neither in the race for the CMs post in the past, nor am I a contender for the post now. Im fortunate to be an ordinary BJP worker, he said. Im fortunate to have worked under the leadership of PM Modi, Chouhan said in a video message on Tuesday. Talking to journalists, Chouhan made it clear that he was not going to Delhi. Im going to Chhindwara on Wednesday, as we failed to win any of the seven assembly seats there. My only resolution is to win all 29 Lok Sabha seats of MP and present a garland of 29 lotuses to PM Modi, to enable him to become the countrys PM again.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Chhindwara has been the pocket-borough of state Congress chief Kamal Nath for over four decades. The Congress won all seven seats of the district in the 2018 assembly polls as well as in the recent polls. Chhindwara was the lone LS seat from MP won by the Congress in 2019 LS polls. Chouhans latest statements came amid reports about senior state BJP leaders, including Union ministers Narendra Singh Tomar, Prahlad Singh Patel, Jyotiraditya Scindia and state party chief VD Sharma being in Delhi and meeting the national party leadership ahead of the decision on whether Chouhan will be given the fifth term. Importantly, the saffron party hadnt declared CM face in MP assembly polls and fought the polls with PM Modis face in the center. Instead of having a CM face (despite Chouhan being at the helm of state government), the party had fielded eight heavyweights, including seven MPs, among them three Union ministers, besides partys national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya in the recent assembly polls. This indicated a race for the next CM. Barring Union minister Faggan Singh Kulaste and fourth-time MP Ganesh Singh, the other five sitting MPs and party national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya won the polls. EVMs to blame Some MP Congress MLAs in a meeting in Bhopal blamed EVMs for their defeat. A village in Chhindwara got only 80 votes, said Kamal Nath Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Yeshi Seli By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Though the newly-elected Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has formally requested India to withdraw its soldiers, they continue to remain there for the present. In addition, there is confusion on the exact number of Indian military personnel in the island nation.

"The removal of Indian soldiers from Maldives was one of the pledges of President Muizzu. He said it during his first speech as President. However, there is no date on when this will be done. The feeling in Male is that after the conversation President Muizzu had with PM Modi on the sidelines of COP 28 in Dubai, this has been put on the backburner," said a source. Muizzu got elected on October 1 and took his oath on November 18.

There are 24 Indian military personnel managing a chopper, 25 managing a Dornier and 26 managing a second Dornier in the Maldives. In addition, there are two more for maintenance and engineering, bringing the total to 77.

Though President Muizzu on his return from Dubai said that India would withdraw its troops, he also said that the numbers could have increased from 77 to 89 and could rise further  adding to the confusion.

"When President Muizzu met Indias Earth Sciences Minister Kiren Rijiju in Male in November, he acknowledged Indias contribution through the services of these aircrafts and chopper for medical evacuation of Maldivian citizens. They are also on standby for any eventuality for international tourists and also help in monitoring and combating drug trafficking. Thereby, if the Maldivian government wants to continue these services, they will have to keep the personnel as well," said the source.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MP Ahmed Abdulla called for an emergency motion during their parliamentary session.

"During the emergency motion Ahmed demanded that if an agreement had been made regarding the withdrawal of Indian troops, it should be made public. The emergency motion was accepted in the Parliament by 33 out of 36 members who took part in the vote. Ahmed also said that different officials had different numbers of the Indian soldiers and wanted the exact number to be made public," added the source.

"How many Indian soldiers are here in the Maldives on military visas, where have their weapons been stored, which Maldivian island or region are these armed soldiers based  all that information should be made public," demanded Ahmed.

Interestingly, President Muizzu has also had a rift with his mentor and former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom  which whose support he won the elections. It may be recalled that the India Out campaign was anchored by Yameen. Yameen has since floated a new party called the Peoples National Front (PNF).

ALSO READ | New Maldives President Muizzu formally asks India to withdraw military personnel from his country

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NEW DELHI: Though the newly-elected Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has formally requested India to withdraw its soldiers, they continue to remain there for the present. In addition, there is confusion on the exact number of Indian military personnel in the island nation. "The removal of Indian soldiers from Maldives was one of the pledges of President Muizzu. He said it during his first speech as President. However, there is no date on when this will be done. The feeling in Male is that after the conversation President Muizzu had with PM Modi on the sidelines of COP 28 in Dubai, this has been put on the backburner," said a source. Muizzu got elected on October 1 and took his oath on November 18. There are 24 Indian military personnel managing a chopper, 25 managing a Dornier and 26 managing a second Dornier in the Maldives. In addition, there are two more for maintenance and engineering, bringing the total to 77.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Though President Muizzu on his return from Dubai said that India would withdraw its troops, he also said that the numbers could have increased from 77 to 89 and could rise further  adding to the confusion. "When President Muizzu met Indias Earth Sciences Minister Kiren Rijiju in Male in November, he acknowledged Indias contribution through the services of these aircrafts and chopper for medical evacuation of Maldivian citizens. They are also on standby for any eventuality for international tourists and also help in monitoring and combating drug trafficking. Thereby, if the Maldivian government wants to continue these services, they will have to keep the personnel as well," said the source. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MP Ahmed Abdulla called for an emergency motion during their parliamentary session. "During the emergency motion Ahmed demanded that if an agreement had been made regarding the withdrawal of Indian troops, it should be made public. The emergency motion was accepted in the Parliament by 33 out of 36 members who took part in the vote. Ahmed also said that different officials had different numbers of the Indian soldiers and wanted the exact number to be made public," added the source. "How many Indian soldiers are here in the Maldives on military visas, where have their weapons been stored, which Maldivian island or region are these armed soldiers based  all that information should be made public," demanded Ahmed. Interestingly, President Muizzu has also had a rift with his mentor and former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom  which whose support he won the elections. It may be recalled that the India Out campaign was anchored by Yameen. Yameen has since floated a new party called the Peoples National Front (PNF). ALSO READ | New Maldives President Muizzu formally asks India to withdraw military personnel from his country Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Namita Bajpai By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW: In the near future, various social media platforms, such as Facebook, YouTube and even Instagram, may be flooded with the reels and shorts on various aspects of the life of Lord Ram, his era and also the upcoming Ram temple in Ayodhya.

The details on under construction temple, its history and metamorphosis of Ayodhya into Navya Ayodhya will be the main focus of the posts across various social media platforms ahead of the consecration ceremony of the idol of child form of Lord Ram in sanctum sanctorum of the upcoming temple scheduled for January 22.

As per sources, the UP government has approached several social media influencers to promote the cultural heritage of the land of Lord Ram sharing the stories of his life and times besides reels on various stages of temple movement and finally the construction of the temple. The state government has earmarked a budget of Rs 25 lakh for the purpose to the cultural affairs department which has been made the nodal authority to reach out to people through social media platforms and create the buzz about the temple.

According to Cultural affairs principal secretary Mukesh Meshram, influencers active on various social media platforms have already been approached for collaboration. Moreover, the department is also busy making documentaries on events related to Ramayana and events are being planned to release books by various authors focusing on the philosophy of Lord Ram.

The official sources also claimed that an additional budget of Rs 1 crore was likely to be allocated for an album on Ramayana featuring devotional songs. Moreover, light and sound shows would be organised on the banks of river Saryu to narrate the story related to the instances of Lord Ram finding a mention in Ramayana and Ramcharit Manas using projection mapping, drones and lasers on water screen, added the sources.

Simultaneously, as part of the preparation for consecration ceremony, the facades of shops on Rampath, Janmabhoomi path and bhakti path all approaching the Ram Janmabhoomi premises are being renovated with symbols including conch shells, tridents, bow and arrow, mace, chakra, swastik and saffron flag, all depicting the elements of Sanatan dharma. The facade work is being done by the Ayodhya Development Authority with the budget allocation of Rs 42 crore. The roads to the upcoming temple site on Janmabhoomi premises have been widened.

Roads leading to new temple widened

The facade work is being done by the Ayodhya Development Authority with the budget allocation of Rs 42 crore. The approach roads to the upcoming temple site on Janmabhoomi premises have been widened. These include 13-km Rampath at a cost of Rs 798 crore,

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LUCKNOW: In the near future, various social media platforms, such as Facebook, YouTube and even Instagram, may be flooded with the reels and shorts on various aspects of the life of Lord Ram, his era and also the upcoming Ram temple in Ayodhya. The details on under construction temple, its history and metamorphosis of Ayodhya into Navya Ayodhya will be the main focus of the posts across various social media platforms ahead of the consecration ceremony of the idol of child form of Lord Ram in sanctum sanctorum of the upcoming temple scheduled for January 22. As per sources, the UP government has approached several social media influencers to promote the cultural heritage of the land of Lord Ram sharing the stories of his life and times besides reels on various stages of temple movement and finally the construction of the temple. The state government has earmarked a budget of Rs 25 lakh for the purpose to the cultural affairs department which has been made the nodal authority to reach out to people through social media platforms and create the buzz about the temple.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); According to Cultural affairs principal secretary Mukesh Meshram, influencers active on various social media platforms have already been approached for collaboration. Moreover, the department is also busy making documentaries on events related to Ramayana and events are being planned to release books by various authors focusing on the philosophy of Lord Ram. The official sources also claimed that an additional budget of Rs 1 crore was likely to be allocated for an album on Ramayana featuring devotional songs. Moreover, light and sound shows would be organised on the banks of river Saryu to narrate the story related to the instances of Lord Ram finding a mention in Ramayana and Ramcharit Manas using projection mapping, drones and lasers on water screen, added the sources. Simultaneously, as part of the preparation for consecration ceremony, the facades of shops on Rampath, Janmabhoomi path and bhakti path all approaching the Ram Janmabhoomi premises are being renovated with symbols including conch shells, tridents, bow and arrow, mace, chakra, swastik and saffron flag, all depicting the elements of Sanatan dharma. The facade work is being done by the Ayodhya Development Authority with the budget allocation of Rs 42 crore. The roads to the upcoming temple site on Janmabhoomi premises have been widened. Roads leading to new temple widened The facade work is being done by the Ayodhya Development Authority with the budget allocation of Rs 42 crore. The approach roads to the upcoming temple site on Janmabhoomi premises have been widened. These include 13-km Rampath at a cost of Rs 798 crore, Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

JAIPUR: Amid suspense over the BJP's chief ministerial pick for Rajasthan, senior party leader and former CM Vasundhara Raje was headed to New Delhi Wednesday night.

She was scheduled to take a flight to Delhi. Sources in the Raje camp said she would be meeting the party's high command on Thursday.

The development came after nearly 60 of the newly elected BJP MLAs met her at her Civil Lines residence on Monday and Tuesday.

The party sources said the name of the chief minister will be decided by the party's parliamentary board and before that, a BJP legislature party meeting will be called. However, the party has not yet made any announcement regarding the legislature party meeting.

ALSO READ | Gehlot-Pilot rift, poor ticket distribution cause Congress defeat in Rajasthan

Raje, a two-time chief minister from 2003 to 2008 and from 2013 to 2018, is among the frontrunners for the post of chief minister. While she was the chief ministerial face in earlier elections, the party decided to go to polls without projecting any leader for the post and PM Modi leading the campaign.

After the BJP's defeat in 2018 and the changed dynamics within the party, Raje was seen as a sidelined leader. Now that the party has returned to power in the state, her supporters are expecting that she gets a chance to be the chief minister for the third time.

In the assembly election results declared on Sunday, the BJP got 115 seats while the Congress secured 69 seats. Elections on 199 out of 200 seats in the state were held on November 25.

Polling in Karanpur, where the election was adjourned due to the demise of the Congress candidate, will be held on January 5 and results will be declared on January 8.

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JAIPUR: Amid suspense over the BJP's chief ministerial pick for Rajasthan, senior party leader and former CM Vasundhara Raje was headed to New Delhi Wednesday night. She was scheduled to take a flight to Delhi. Sources in the Raje camp said she would be meeting the party's high command on Thursday. The development came after nearly 60 of the newly elected BJP MLAs met her at her Civil Lines residence on Monday and Tuesday.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The party sources said the name of the chief minister will be decided by the party's parliamentary board and before that, a BJP legislature party meeting will be called. However, the party has not yet made any announcement regarding the legislature party meeting. ALSO READ | Gehlot-Pilot rift, poor ticket distribution cause Congress defeat in Rajasthan Raje, a two-time chief minister from 2003 to 2008 and from 2013 to 2018, is among the frontrunners for the post of chief minister. While she was the chief ministerial face in earlier elections, the party decided to go to polls without projecting any leader for the post and PM Modi leading the campaign. After the BJP's defeat in 2018 and the changed dynamics within the party, Raje was seen as a sidelined leader. Now that the party has returned to power in the state, her supporters are expecting that she gets a chance to be the chief minister for the third time. In the assembly election results declared on Sunday, the BJP got 115 seats while the Congress secured 69 seats. Elections on 199 out of 200 seats in the state were held on November 25. Polling in Karanpur, where the election was adjourned due to the demise of the Congress candidate, will be held on January 5 and results will be declared on January 8. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
After weeks of speculation about SUNY Fredonias financial deficit and what it might mean for the school, Fredonia President Stephan H. Kolison Jr. on Wednesday presented a road map for the future  including discontinuing 13 low-performing degree programs that currently serve just 74 students.

Kolison, who came aboard as Fredonia president three years ago, said the university has operated with a structural deficit for longer than a decade and is working closely with SUNY and its governance partners on a plan to right the ship.

This year, it used one-time monies and $2.4 million in additional state funding to reduce a $17 million deficit to a current $10 million shortfall, he said.

In short, our base expenditures simply far outweigh our revenues, he added. This is not sustainable.

Fredonia is among several smaller SUNY schools with years-long structural deficits, meaning their expenses greatly exceed their revenue. Kolison said Fredonia is a victim of demographic changes that hit many small colleges sooner than they have reacted.

SUNY Fredonia faculty protest expected cuts to reduce $17M deficit Members of the SUNY Fredonia faculty union held a silent march on campus Tuesday to protest anticipated cuts in programs and staff to address a $17 million structural deficit.

Fredonias enrollment has dropped by about 40% since 2013, from 5,391 to 3,220, as schools like Fredonia compete for a shrinking pool of college-age students. But the number of employees at the university has dropped just 15% over the same span, from 704 to 597.

Kolison outlined a plan to restore financial sustainability to Fredonia by reducing spending while increasing growth and efficiency  including cutting its least popular programs.

Fredonia looked at its lowest performing degree programs in 2018 and considered discontinuing some, but held off. This year, it did another analysis, and the same programs came up short.

Fredonia will discontinue 13 low-enrolled degree programs, including French, art history and ceramics, while teaching them out to allow current students to complete their degrees, while no longer enrolling new students in the impacted majors, Kolison said.

The degrees being discontinued are:

BA Visual Arts and New Media, Art History

BA French

BA French: Adolescence Education

BS Industrial Management

BS Mathematics: Middle Childhood Specialist (grades 5-9)

BA Philosophy

BA Sociology

BA Spanish

BA Spanish: Adolescence Education

BFA Visual Arts and New Media, Ceramics

BFA Visual Arts and New Media, Photography

BFA Visual Arts New Media, Sculpture

BSED Early Childhood (Birth - Grade 2)

SUNY Fredonia adds mental health counseling masters to address need In response to an ongoing need, SUNY Fredonia is adding a new masters degree program in mental health counseling.

The plan will lead to cuts in faculty and staff, but Kolison said it is not yet possible to project how many employees may be affected due to uncertainties in retirements and attrition through the next few years. That also makes it difficult to calculate exactly how much savings the cuts will yield, he said.

He said the 13 targeted programs represent 15% of all majors at Fredonia, which currently have a combined enrollment of 74 students  fewer than 3% of the undergraduate student population, with a third of those students set to graduate this spring.

Inclusion on this list does not reflect poorly on that programs quality or its dedicated faculty and staff, Kolison said. As needed and as appropriate, courses in many of these areas will still be available to SUNY Fredonia students even after the major is no longer offered.

Fredonias chapter of United University Professions, its faculty union, held a walk-out and silent march on Tuesday in anticipation of cuts to programs and associated staff.

UUP leaders have called on SUNY to use some of the $163 million in additional aid to SUNY schools that UUP successfully lobbied for in the governors 2023 budget to bail out 19 schools battling deficits, according to state UUP President Fred Kowal.

New SUNY school presidents are Adiam Tsegai at ECC, Chance Glenn at Buffalo State Both local SUNY schools have been seeking new presidents for most of this year after their former leaders stepped down.

Gov. Kathy Hochul allocated the $163 million among 29 campuses, with SUNYs four university centers in Buffalo, Stony Brook, Albany and Binghamton getting about half, even though those schools are enjoying better financial health than many smaller campuses, Kowal said.

But SUNY says the schools with structural deficits, including SUNY Potsdam, SUNY Rockland, Buffalo State University and Fredonia, have bigger problems than a one-time bailout can solve. SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. has requested deficit-reduction plans for several schools, and SUNY is assisting with those plans.

Buffalo State recently said it is facing a $16.5 million deficit and imposed a hiring freeze, with its new president, Chance Glenn, scheduled to take over in July 2024. Buffalo State is already starting to implement a deficit reduction plan that includes new scholarship incentive that produced enrollment gains this year.

Kolison said Fredonia will not implement a blanket hiring freeze, which would undermine our efforts to grow in strategic areas.

Kolison also echoed SUNYs stance that, There is no one-shot funding that can paper over our structural budgetary issues.

Besides discontinuing underperforming degree programs, Fredonia also intends to grow enrollment by adding in-demand programs that reflect the workforce needs of todays employers.

Fredonia recently added a new masters program in clinical mental health counseling, which will enroll its first cohort as soon as the spring 2024 semester and has just received SUNY approval for a new masters in business administration program in accounting that will start admitting students in fall 2024.

Fredonia also is exploring adding programs in growing sectors including biotech and life sciences, renewable energies and electronics, Kolison said.

Fredonia has also launched a fundraiser, the Bicentennial Fund, to spur alumni giving leading up to its 200th anniversary in 2026 to increase revenue and provide support strategically aimed at giving students access to a SUNY Fredonia degree and retaining them, he said.

Fredonia will also look for ways to operate more efficiently, including sharing services with other SUNY schools and using technology, such as new AI recruiting and retention tools, to save on operating costs, Kolison said.

He said Fredonias deficit-reduction strategies and its new strategic plan for 2023-2028, dubbed True Blue, will mean adjusting to major changes in population trends, workforce needs and higher education.

If we fail to adapt to these changes, we will be risking and squandering our future, he said.

That is important because Fredonia also has a significant impact on the regions economy.

Fredonias economic impact is estimated at $330 million. Nearly half the total statewide impact  $157 million  is concentrated here in the local Fredonia-Dunkirk community, he said. This University has  and will always continue to be  a vital asset.
Parvez Sultan By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Members of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc seem to have buried the hatchet as parleys are in progress to finalise a convenient date to hold the meeting of coalition partners according to the availability of their top leaders.

The Congress had to call off the Wednesday meeting, which was apparently scheduled without consultation with coalition partners in the national capital, in which the top leadership of opposition parties was supposed to be present. Instead, floor leaders from 17 parties of the 'INDIA' bloc met at the residence of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday evening.

However, leaders of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) were not present. Kharge, along with former Congress president Rahul Gandhi, chaired the meeting of the opposition's parliament leaders.

ALSO READ | Congress receives bashing from INDIA bloc members after poll defeat

"A parliamentary strategy meeting of like-minded parties of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha floor leaders was held at 10, Rajaji Marg. We will take up the issues of the people in Parliament in the remaining part of this session to hold the government accountable. A date for the meeting of INDIA parties will soon be fixed in consultation with the leaders of all parties. Judega Bharat, Jeetega INDIA," Kharge posted on the micro-blogging site 'X'.

A Parliamentary strategy meeting of like-minded parties of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha floor leaders was held at 10, Rajaji Marg.



We will take up the issues of the people in the Parliament, in the remaining part of this session to make the government accountable.



A date for pic.twitter.com/FTcpMHtwzQ  Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) December 6, 2023

The Congress party's whip in Rajya Sabha, Syed Naseer Hussain, told media persons that several issues, including the upcoming bills in Parliament and the behaviour of the government, were also deliberated upon. "It was decided that the dates of the leaders of the INDIA bloc would be finalised in a day or two and announced," he said.

Asked about the absence of TMC and Shiv Sena, Hussain said they had already informed that they would not be able to attend. "It happens daily that some parties are not able to participate due to some compulsion," he remarked.

According to Sanjay Raut of Shiv Sena-UBT, the next meeting of the group of opposition parties may take place on December 16 or 18. On Tuesday, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav said that the members of the oppositions coalition will hold a meeting on December 17.

In an apparent snub to Congress for ignoring INDIA bloc members during recently concluded elections in Hindi heartlandRajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and ChhattisgarhTMC supremo and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, on Monday, expressed their inability to attend the meeting.

ALSO READ | Opposition may rethink 2024 strategy after BJP's Hindi heartland dominance

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, on Wednesday, said that he couldnt come to Delhi to attend the meeting as he was suffering from a fever. "Is it possible that I will not attend the meeting? We want all members of the alliance should move forward swiftly," he told reporters in Patna.

Banerjee, speaking to the media persons at Kolkata airport before setting out on her six-day north Bengal tour, said that she would attend the opposition blocs next meeting but added that alliance partners should be informed at least seven to 10 days in advance.

Among Congress leaders present at Kharge's residence were its leader in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and deputy leader in Rajya Sabha Pramod Tiwari, besides general secretaries K C Venugopal and Jairam Ramesh.

The opposition leaders present at the meeting included Mahua Majhi of JMM, Vaiko of MDMK, N K Premchandran (RSP), Binoy Viswam (CPI), Lalan Singh of JDU, Ram Gopal Yadav and ST Hasan of SP, Jayant Chaudhary of RLD.

Besides, Vandana Chavan of NCP, Raghav Chadha of AAP, Tiruchi Siva of DMK and Congress leaders Gaurav Gogoi, Naseer Hussain and Rajani Patil were also present at the meeting that started around 7 PM and continued for an hour.

Elamaram Kareem (CPI-M), Faiyaz Ahmad (RJD), Jose K Mani of Kerala Congress (M), Javed Ali Khan (SP), TR Baalu (DMK), Hasnain Masoodi (NC) and Mohd Basheer (IUML) also attended the meeting.

Today's meeting assumes significance as it comes after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged victorious in the elections in three Hindi heartland states -- Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh -- while the Congress won the poll battle in Telangana.

OPINION: Will the real Congress please stand up?

There have been rumblings within the INDIA bloc after the Congress's electoral loss in the three Hindi heartland states, with the SP, which was miffed after being ignored in seat sharing, expressing its displeasure openly.

Leaders of parties such as the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), Janata Dal (United) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have said the Congress should be more accommodating when it comes to its regional allies.

At least 26 parties came together as part of the INDIA bloc to take on the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections and have so far held three rounds of deliberations in Patna, Bengaluru and Mumbai.

Sources said the opposition leaders would now plan joint rallies that were put on hold due to the assembly elections. One such rally planned in the first week of October in Bhopal was cancelled at the last moment. Talks on seat-sharing between regional outfits would also gain momentum now, they said.

(With additional inputs from PTI)

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NEW DELHI: Members of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc seem to have buried the hatchet as parleys are in progress to finalise a convenient date to hold the meeting of coalition partners according to the availability of their top leaders. The Congress had to call off the Wednesday meeting, which was apparently scheduled without consultation with coalition partners in the national capital, in which the top leadership of opposition parties was supposed to be present. Instead, floor leaders from 17 parties of the 'INDIA' bloc met at the residence of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday evening. However, leaders of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) were not present. Kharge, along with former Congress president Rahul Gandhi, chaired the meeting of the opposition's parliament leaders.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); ALSO READ | Congress receives bashing from INDIA bloc members after poll defeat "A parliamentary strategy meeting of like-minded parties of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha floor leaders was held at 10, Rajaji Marg. We will take up the issues of the people in Parliament in the remaining part of this session to hold the government accountable. A date for the meeting of INDIA parties will soon be fixed in consultation with the leaders of all parties. Judega Bharat, Jeetega INDIA," Kharge posted on the micro-blogging site 'X'. A Parliamentary strategy meeting of like-minded parties of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha floor leaders was held at 10, Rajaji Marg. We will take up the issues of the people in the Parliament, in the remaining part of this session to make the government accountable. A date for pic.twitter.com/FTcpMHtwzQ  Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) December 6, 2023 The Congress party's whip in Rajya Sabha, Syed Naseer Hussain, told media persons that several issues, including the upcoming bills in Parliament and the behaviour of the government, were also deliberated upon. "It was decided that the dates of the leaders of the INDIA bloc would be finalised in a day or two and announced," he said. Asked about the absence of TMC and Shiv Sena, Hussain said they had already informed that they would not be able to attend. "It happens daily that some parties are not able to participate due to some compulsion," he remarked. According to Sanjay Raut of Shiv Sena-UBT, the next meeting of the group of opposition parties may take place on December 16 or 18. On Tuesday, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav said that the members of the oppositions coalition will hold a meeting on December 17. In an apparent snub to Congress for ignoring INDIA bloc members during recently concluded elections in Hindi heartlandRajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and ChhattisgarhTMC supremo and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, on Monday, expressed their inability to attend the meeting. ALSO READ | Opposition may rethink 2024 strategy after BJP's Hindi heartland dominance Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, on Wednesday, said that he couldnt come to Delhi to attend the meeting as he was suffering from a fever. "Is it possible that I will not attend the meeting? We want all members of the alliance should move forward swiftly," he told reporters in Patna. Banerjee, speaking to the media persons at Kolkata airport before setting out on her six-day north Bengal tour, said that she would attend the opposition blocs next meeting but added that alliance partners should be informed at least seven to 10 days in advance. Among Congress leaders present at Kharge's residence were its leader in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and deputy leader in Rajya Sabha Pramod Tiwari, besides general secretaries K C Venugopal and Jairam Ramesh. The opposition leaders present at the meeting included Mahua Majhi of JMM, Vaiko of MDMK, N K Premchandran (RSP), Binoy Viswam (CPI), Lalan Singh of JDU, Ram Gopal Yadav and ST Hasan of SP, Jayant Chaudhary of RLD. Besides, Vandana Chavan of NCP, Raghav Chadha of AAP, Tiruchi Siva of DMK and Congress leaders Gaurav Gogoi, Naseer Hussain and Rajani Patil were also present at the meeting that started around 7 PM and continued for an hour. Elamaram Kareem (CPI-M), Faiyaz Ahmad (RJD), Jose K Mani of Kerala Congress (M), Javed Ali Khan (SP), TR Baalu (DMK), Hasnain Masoodi (NC) and Mohd Basheer (IUML) also attended the meeting. Today's meeting assumes significance as it comes after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged victorious in the elections in three Hindi heartland states -- Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh -- while the Congress won the poll battle in Telangana. OPINION: Will the real Congress please stand up? There have been rumblings within the INDIA bloc after the Congress's electoral loss in the three Hindi heartland states, with the SP, which was miffed after being ignored in seat sharing, expressing its displeasure openly. Leaders of parties such as the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), Janata Dal (United) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have said the Congress should be more accommodating when it comes to its regional allies. At least 26 parties came together as part of the INDIA bloc to take on the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections and have so far held three rounds of deliberations in Patna, Bengaluru and Mumbai. Sources said the opposition leaders would now plan joint rallies that were put on hold due to the assembly elections. One such rally planned in the first week of October in Bhopal was cancelled at the last moment. Talks on seat-sharing between regional outfits would also gain momentum now, they said. (With additional inputs from PTI) Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Rajesh Abraham By

Express News Service

Its the 18th day since CM Pinarayi Vijayan hit the roads, literally, for the Nava Kerala Sadas, along with his cabinet colleagues, when TNIE boarded the special bus from Thriprayar in Thrissur for a 40-minute interview till the next stop at Ollur. Showing no sign of fatigue, the CM was quite energetic, replying to all the questions posed to him quietly but with clarity. He spoke about the standoff with the governor, his ideas for development, and his three pet projects.

Congresss refusal to accommodate other non-BJP parties during seat sharing was the prime reason for its poll debacle in the Hindi heartland, said Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

It was created by all the parties that oppose BJP to defeat the saffron party. The aim was to protect secularism and to safeguard the Constitution. However, Congress failed to recognise this, he said.

The Congress tried to replicate the BJP strategy of Hindutva politics, which proved to be a disaster.

The BJP cant be beaten in its Hindutva game, and the ideal strategy was to channel all anti-BJP votes into one basket, he said, pointing out that all the anti-BJP votes in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chattisgarh outnumbered the votes BJP secured. However, all is not yet lost for the secular bloc.

We believe theres enough time to formulate a winning strategy against the BJP, Pinarayi said.

During the 40-minute journey, the CM also answered a range of questions, including Rahul Gandhi's contesting from Wayanad, his governments development plans, the speculation of the IUMLs entry to the LDF - which he outrightly ruled out - and the tussle with Governor Arif Mohammed Khan.

Excerpts.

The governor has referred four bills to the President. Whats your next move?

Well, the governor may want the bills to lie there before the President forever. I believe that the President will study the bills and make a decision because they contain whats beneficial to the state and its people. The President may need time to study these bills. But after some time, if theres no decision coming forth, we may consider approaching the President directly.

After Congress poll rout, theres a feeling that Rahul Gandhi should vacate Wayanad and contest from north India.

If Congress objective is to fight and defeat the BJP, then they should try and win against the BJP. Its the LDF, not BJP, which is the main opponent here. Contesting against the LDF is not by any chance comparable to fighting the BJP. They should think about it.

The Nava Kerala Sadas is compared to Oommen Chandys Janasamparka Paripady or the Mass Contact programme though there is a big difference. Your thoughts

This is the most unfortunate narrative. The exact purpose of the Nava Kerala Sadas is deliberately suppressed by the media. Nava Kerala Sadas is not like any programme held in our state in the past. Our country has not witnessed a similar programme. Kerala has come up to this stage. From here, we need to go further. So, the objective is to put up before the people our plans and proposals to achieve this objective. However, we face some obstacles in our march forward. These hurdles are created by the Union government. We wanted to present these two things before the people through the Sadas  where Kerala has reached and how to go from here for building a new Kerala, and the uncooperative stance by the Union government towards the state.

So, what about the complaints redressal?

When a minister goes to a place, people would come and submit various complaints. In this case, all ministers are present, and people will come forward with various complaints and submissions. So, we thought why not allow them to submit their complaints, and issues. These submissions will be cleared in a time-bound manner. But, Nava Kerala Sadass main purpose is not that.

Theres controversy over the Union governments demand to provide branding for houses provided through housing projects, including LIFE Mission. Whats the solution?

These are areas where the Kerala government has fundamental differences with the Union government. This is not a question of placing any name board outside a house. For LIFE Mission, we provide houses for the poor. Here, the state government gives Rs 4 lakh. We have given about 3.5 lakh houses so far. Of this, only a minuscule number has received central funding.

The Union government provides Rs 70,000 in villages and Rs 1.5 lakh in cities. Since no one can construct a house at Rs 70,000, what we told the Union government was that we would bring all these schemes together under LIFE. We told them that we are planning to construct Rs 4 lakh-worth houses, and their contribution will be added. The central government is now saying that these houses should be branded in such and such manner. We are against this. The name board outside gives the beneficiaries the impression that these houses are not theirs. Thats questioning their dignity.

Whats the status of our SilverLine rail project?

SilverLine is a railway line. And, for SilverLine to become a reality, we need the Union governments approval. The state cant implement the project by itself. Some forces that have narrow vested interests have through the BJP influenced the Union government to block the project. So, the Union government changed its earlier stance and has now taken an uncooperative stance for SilverLine. However, we believe that they cannot continue this approach forever. Our approach is to wait for them to change their stance to implement the SilverLine project.

Meanwhile, E Sreedharan put up a proposal. Are you considering that proposal?

As I said earlier, they have to decide on that. Our proposal is before the Union government. The Railways has asked the Southern Railway to study the proposal. We have not abandoned the project. The Union government should study Sreedharans proposal if they desire to.

Whats the relevance of SilverLine after the introduction of Vande Bharat trains?

The relevance of SilverLine has increased after the introduction of Vande Bharat. Everyone has accepted that we need speed trains, but that trains should not create trouble for passengers in other trains.

The proposed Cabinet reshuffle after two-and-half-years. Whats the status?

Theres no big issue there. LDF will decide as per the earlier agreement. After the Nava Kerala Sadas, LDF will meet and decide on the matter.

There are speculations about changes in portfolios of other ministers too?

No, there will not be any other changes.

The speculations about Muslim League joining LDF is going on for some time now. Whats the truth?

These are just speculations by some media houses who fear about the stability of the UDF. Without the League, theres no UDF. In reality, the League has made it clear time and again that it would not leave UDF. As far as we are concerned, we consider the League as the main ally in the UDF. We dont have any need to bring League or any other party to the LDF fold as our base is expanding organically.

If I were to ask you to name your three pet projects for the next two-and-half-years, what would that be?

There are several projects that Kerala is implementing. If you take big projects, one is the GIFT City project. Graphene is another focus area for us. Its considered a wonder material. The third focus area is green hydrogen.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

Its the 18th day since CM Pinarayi Vijayan hit the roads, literally, for the Nava Kerala Sadas, along with his cabinet colleagues, when TNIE boarded the special bus from Thriprayar in Thrissur for a 40-minute interview till the next stop at Ollur. Showing no sign of fatigue, the CM was quite energetic, replying to all the questions posed to him quietly but with clarity. He spoke about the standoff with the governor, his ideas for development, and his three pet projects. Congresss refusal to accommodate other non-BJP parties during seat sharing was the prime reason for its poll debacle in the Hindi heartland, said Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. It was created by all the parties that oppose BJP to defeat the saffron party. The aim was to protect secularism and to safeguard the Constitution. However, Congress failed to recognise this, he said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The Congress tried to replicate the BJP strategy of Hindutva politics, which proved to be a disaster. The BJP cant be beaten in its Hindutva game, and the ideal strategy was to channel all anti-BJP votes into one basket, he said, pointing out that all the anti-BJP votes in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chattisgarh outnumbered the votes BJP secured. However, all is not yet lost for the secular bloc. We believe theres enough time to formulate a winning strategy against the BJP, Pinarayi said. During the 40-minute journey, the CM also answered a range of questions, including Rahul Gandhi's contesting from Wayanad, his governments development plans, the speculation of the IUMLs entry to the LDF - which he outrightly ruled out - and the tussle with Governor Arif Mohammed Khan. Excerpts. The governor has referred four bills to the President. Whats your next move? Well, the governor may want the bills to lie there before the President forever. I believe that the President will study the bills and make a decision because they contain whats beneficial to the state and its people. The President may need time to study these bills. But after some time, if theres no decision coming forth, we may consider approaching the President directly. After Congress poll rout, theres a feeling that Rahul Gandhi should vacate Wayanad and contest from north India. If Congress objective is to fight and defeat the BJP, then they should try and win against the BJP. Its the LDF, not BJP, which is the main opponent here. Contesting against the LDF is not by any chance comparable to fighting the BJP. They should think about it. The Nava Kerala Sadas is compared to Oommen Chandys Janasamparka Paripady or the Mass Contact programme though there is a big difference. Your thoughts This is the most unfortunate narrative. The exact purpose of the Nava Kerala Sadas is deliberately suppressed by the media. Nava Kerala Sadas is not like any programme held in our state in the past. Our country has not witnessed a similar programme. Kerala has come up to this stage. From here, we need to go further. So, the objective is to put up before the people our plans and proposals to achieve this objective. However, we face some obstacles in our march forward. These hurdles are created by the Union government. We wanted to present these two things before the people through the Sadas  where Kerala has reached and how to go from here for building a new Kerala, and the uncooperative stance by the Union government towards the state. So, what about the complaints redressal? When a minister goes to a place, people would come and submit various complaints. In this case, all ministers are present, and people will come forward with various complaints and submissions. So, we thought why not allow them to submit their complaints, and issues. These submissions will be cleared in a time-bound manner. But, Nava Kerala Sadass main purpose is not that. Theres controversy over the Union governments demand to provide branding for houses provided through housing projects, including LIFE Mission. Whats the solution? These are areas where the Kerala government has fundamental differences with the Union government. This is not a question of placing any name board outside a house. For LIFE Mission, we provide houses for the poor. Here, the state government gives Rs 4 lakh. We have given about 3.5 lakh houses so far. Of this, only a minuscule number has received central funding. The Union government provides Rs 70,000 in villages and Rs 1.5 lakh in cities. Since no one can construct a house at Rs 70,000, what we told the Union government was that we would bring all these schemes together under LIFE. We told them that we are planning to construct Rs 4 lakh-worth houses, and their contribution will be added. The central government is now saying that these houses should be branded in such and such manner. We are against this. The name board outside gives the beneficiaries the impression that these houses are not theirs. Thats questioning their dignity. Whats the status of our SilverLine rail project? SilverLine is a railway line. And, for SilverLine to become a reality, we need the Union governments approval. The state cant implement the project by itself. Some forces that have narrow vested interests have through the BJP influenced the Union government to block the project. So, the Union government changed its earlier stance and has now taken an uncooperative stance for SilverLine. However, we believe that they cannot continue this approach forever. Our approach is to wait for them to change their stance to implement the SilverLine project. Meanwhile, E Sreedharan put up a proposal. Are you considering that proposal? As I said earlier, they have to decide on that. Our proposal is before the Union government. The Railways has asked the Southern Railway to study the proposal. We have not abandoned the project. The Union government should study Sreedharans proposal if they desire to. Whats the relevance of SilverLine after the introduction of Vande Bharat trains? The relevance of SilverLine has increased after the introduction of Vande Bharat. Everyone has accepted that we need speed trains, but that trains should not create trouble for passengers in other trains. The proposed Cabinet reshuffle after two-and-half-years. Whats the status? Theres no big issue there. LDF will decide as per the earlier agreement. After the Nava Kerala Sadas, LDF will meet and decide on the matter. There are speculations about changes in portfolios of other ministers too? No, there will not be any other changes. The speculations about Muslim League joining LDF is going on for some time now. Whats the truth? These are just speculations by some media houses who fear about the stability of the UDF. Without the League, theres no UDF. In reality, the League has made it clear time and again that it would not leave UDF. As far as we are concerned, we consider the League as the main ally in the UDF. We dont have any need to bring League or any other party to the LDF fold as our base is expanding organically. If I were to ask you to name your three pet projects for the next two-and-half-years, what would that be? There are several projects that Kerala is implementing. If you take big projects, one is the GIFT City project. Graphene is another focus area for us. Its considered a wonder material. The third focus area is green hydrogen. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
T Muruganandham By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government has set up an exclusive help desk at the State Disaster Management Control Room in Ezhilagam to coordinate the Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and individual volunteers who wish to involve themselves in the rescue and relief works being undertaken in the rain-affected areas in the four districts.

Chief Minister MK Stalin has requested that individuals/volunteer teams/organizations can register their details with the help desk.

They can contact the following officials through the contact numbers given:

Sheik Mansoor, Assistant Commissioner (9791149789); Babu, Assistant Commissioner (9445461712); Subburaj, Assistant Commissioner (9895440669);and General contact number (7397766651).

After their registration with the government, the NGOs and volunteers would be deputed to places where there is a requirement.

An official release here said the cyclonic storm Michaung has caused unprecedented rains in the districts of Chennai, Thiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu districts and the government has been taking many steps to provide relief assistance to the needy. Teams of the National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force, personnel from Fire and Rescue Services departments are being engaged in relief and rescue operations. People stranded in areas surrounded by flood water are being rescued using boats and other vehicles.

Rs.10 lakh Govt official died on way to Chennai for relief works

Expressing deep grief over the death of Jayapal Moorthy, Sanitary Officer from Rajapalayam municipality in Virudhunagar district, who died in a road accident on his way to Chennai for relief works.

He said suitable government employment would be given to one member of Jayapal Moorthy. The CM also granted Rs 1 lakh to the driver of the vehicle Muruganandam who suffered injuries in the accident.

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CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government has set up an exclusive help desk at the State Disaster Management Control Room in Ezhilagam to coordinate the Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and individual volunteers who wish to involve themselves in the rescue and relief works being undertaken in the rain-affected areas in the four districts. Chief Minister MK Stalin has requested that individuals/volunteer teams/organizations can register their details with the help desk. They can contact the following officials through the contact numbers given: googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Sheik Mansoor, Assistant Commissioner (9791149789); Babu, Assistant Commissioner (9445461712); Subburaj, Assistant Commissioner (9895440669);and General contact number (7397766651). After their registration with the government, the NGOs and volunteers would be deputed to places where there is a requirement. An official release here said the cyclonic storm Michaung has caused unprecedented rains in the districts of Chennai, Thiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu districts and the government has been taking many steps to provide relief assistance to the needy. Teams of the National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force, personnel from Fire and Rescue Services departments are being engaged in relief and rescue operations. People stranded in areas surrounded by flood water are being rescued using boats and other vehicles. Rs.10 lakh Govt official died on way to Chennai for relief works Expressing deep grief over the death of Jayapal Moorthy, Sanitary Officer from Rajapalayam municipality in Virudhunagar district, who died in a road accident on his way to Chennai for relief works. He said suitable government employment would be given to one member of Jayapal Moorthy. The CM also granted Rs 1 lakh to the driver of the vehicle Muruganandam who suffered injuries in the accident. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Associated Press

DEIR AL-BALAH: Israeli forces battled Hamas militants across Gaza on Wednesday in intense fighting that has prevented the distribution of vital aid in much of the territory and brought some of the devastation and mass displacement seen in the north to the south.

As the focus of the ground offensive moves down the Gaza Strip and into the second-largest city of Khan Younis, it is further shrinking the area where Palestinians can seek safety and pushing large numbers of people, many of whom have been forced to flee multiple times, toward the sealed-off border with Egypt.

On the Gaza side of the border, makeshift shelters and family homes are already overflowing and many are sleeping in the streets. On the other side, thousands of Egyptian troops have deployed to prevent any mass influx of refugees, which Egypt says would undermine its decades-old peace treaty with Israel.

The UN says some 1.87 million people  over 80% of the population  have already fled their homes. Many Palestinians fear they will not be allowed to return.

Much of the north, including large parts of Gaza City, has been completely destroyed, and Palestinians worry the rest of Gaza could suffer a similar fate as Israel tries to dismantle Hamas, which has deep roots in the territory it has ruled for 16 years.

Israel has vowed to fight on, saying it can no longer accept a Hamas military presence in Gaza after the Oct. 7 attack that triggered the war. Hamas and other militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took captive some 240 men, women and children in that attack.

An estimated 138 hostages remain in Gaza after more than 100 were freed during a cease-fire last week. Their plight, and accounts of widespread rape and other atrocities committed during the rampage have deepened Israel's outrage and further galvanized support for the war.

Pushed to the edge

The war has been an unprecedented catastrophe for Palestinian civilians, eclipsing all four previous wars between Israel and Hamas, and their suffering is set to worsen as the offensive grinds on.

For the past three days, aid distribution  mainly just supplies of flour and water  has been possible only in and around Rafah, on the border with Egypt, because of fighting and road closures by Israeli forces, the UN's humanitarian aid office said.

ALSO READ | 'Covered in death and darkness': Israel intensifies strikes in invasion of Gaza's second-largest city

Hamza Abu Mustafa, a teacher who lives near a school-turned-shelter in Rafah and is hosting three families himself, said: "The situation is extremely dire."

"You find displaced people in the streets, in schools, in mosques, in hospitals  everywhere."

A Palestinian woman who identified herself as Umm Ahmed said the harsh conditions and limited access to toilets are especially difficult for women who are pregnant or menstruating. Some have taken to social media to request menstrual pads, which are increasingly hard to find.

"For women and girls, the suffering is double," Umm Ahmed said. "It's more humiliation."

The humanitarian crisis gets even worse farther north.

Nawraz Abu Libdeh, who is sheltering in Khan Younis after being displaced six times, said the situation in UN-run shelters there is "beyond catastrophic," with people fighting over food. "The hunger war has started," he said.

"This is the worst of all wars."

In the central town of Deir al-Balah, the aid group Doctors Without Borders said fuel and medical supplies have reached "critically low levels" at the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital. Up to 200 wounded people have been brought in every day since Dec. 1, when a weeklong truce expired, it said.

"Without electricity, ventilators would cease to function, blood donations would have to stop, the sterilization of surgical instruments would be impossible," said Marie-Aure Perreaut Revial, the aid group's emergency coordinator in Gaza.

She said they are also running low on surgical supplies and equipment to stabilize broken bones. Gaza has been without electricity since the first week of the war, and Israel has severely limited fuel imports, forcing several hospitals to shut down because they cannot operate emergency generators.

No end in sight

The war has killed more than 16,200 people in Gaza  most of them women and children  and wounded more than 42,000, the territory's Health Ministry said late Tuesday. It has said many are also trapped under rubble.

The ministry does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths. Its overall tally tracks with a figure released this week by the Israeli military, which said about 5,000 of the dead were militants, without saying how it arrived at its count.

The military says 88 of its soldiers have been killed in the Gaza ground offensive. It accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields when the militants operate in residential areas. But Israel has not given detailed accounts of individual strikes, some of which have levelled entire city blocks.

The Israeli military said Tuesday that its troops were "in the heart" of Khan Younis after what it described as "the most intense day" of fighting since the start of the ground operation five weeks ago, with heavy battles in the north as well.

Hamas' continuing ability to fight in areas where Israel entered with overwhelming force weeks ago, signals that eradicating the group without causing further mass casualties and displacement  as Israel's top ally, the US, has requested  could prove elusive.

Even after weeks of bombardment, Hamas' top leader in Gaza, Yehya Sinwar  whose location is unknown  was able to conduct complex cease-fire negotiations and orchestrate the release of scores of hostages last week. Palestinian militants have also kept up their rocket fire into Israel.

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DEIR AL-BALAH: Israeli forces battled Hamas militants across Gaza on Wednesday in intense fighting that has prevented the distribution of vital aid in much of the territory and brought some of the devastation and mass displacement seen in the north to the south. As the focus of the ground offensive moves down the Gaza Strip and into the second-largest city of Khan Younis, it is further shrinking the area where Palestinians can seek safety and pushing large numbers of people, many of whom have been forced to flee multiple times, toward the sealed-off border with Egypt. On the Gaza side of the border, makeshift shelters and family homes are already overflowing and many are sleeping in the streets. On the other side, thousands of Egyptian troops have deployed to prevent any mass influx of refugees, which Egypt says would undermine its decades-old peace treaty with Israel.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The UN says some 1.87 million people  over 80% of the population  have already fled their homes. Many Palestinians fear they will not be allowed to return. Much of the north, including large parts of Gaza City, has been completely destroyed, and Palestinians worry the rest of Gaza could suffer a similar fate as Israel tries to dismantle Hamas, which has deep roots in the territory it has ruled for 16 years. Israel has vowed to fight on, saying it can no longer accept a Hamas military presence in Gaza after the Oct. 7 attack that triggered the war. Hamas and other militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took captive some 240 men, women and children in that attack. An estimated 138 hostages remain in Gaza after more than 100 were freed during a cease-fire last week. Their plight, and accounts of widespread rape and other atrocities committed during the rampage have deepened Israel's outrage and further galvanized support for the war. Pushed to the edge The war has been an unprecedented catastrophe for Palestinian civilians, eclipsing all four previous wars between Israel and Hamas, and their suffering is set to worsen as the offensive grinds on. For the past three days, aid distribution  mainly just supplies of flour and water  has been possible only in and around Rafah, on the border with Egypt, because of fighting and road closures by Israeli forces, the UN's humanitarian aid office said. ALSO READ | 'Covered in death and darkness': Israel intensifies strikes in invasion of Gaza's second-largest city Hamza Abu Mustafa, a teacher who lives near a school-turned-shelter in Rafah and is hosting three families himself, said: "The situation is extremely dire." "You find displaced people in the streets, in schools, in mosques, in hospitals  everywhere." A Palestinian woman who identified herself as Umm Ahmed said the harsh conditions and limited access to toilets are especially difficult for women who are pregnant or menstruating. Some have taken to social media to request menstrual pads, which are increasingly hard to find. "For women and girls, the suffering is double," Umm Ahmed said. "It's more humiliation." The humanitarian crisis gets even worse farther north. Nawraz Abu Libdeh, who is sheltering in Khan Younis after being displaced six times, said the situation in UN-run shelters there is "beyond catastrophic," with people fighting over food. "The hunger war has started," he said. "This is the worst of all wars." In the central town of Deir al-Balah, the aid group Doctors Without Borders said fuel and medical supplies have reached "critically low levels" at the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital. Up to 200 wounded people have been brought in every day since Dec. 1, when a weeklong truce expired, it said. "Without electricity, ventilators would cease to function, blood donations would have to stop, the sterilization of surgical instruments would be impossible," said Marie-Aure Perreaut Revial, the aid group's emergency coordinator in Gaza. She said they are also running low on surgical supplies and equipment to stabilize broken bones. Gaza has been without electricity since the first week of the war, and Israel has severely limited fuel imports, forcing several hospitals to shut down because they cannot operate emergency generators. No end in sight The war has killed more than 16,200 people in Gaza  most of them women and children  and wounded more than 42,000, the territory's Health Ministry said late Tuesday. It has said many are also trapped under rubble. The ministry does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths. Its overall tally tracks with a figure released this week by the Israeli military, which said about 5,000 of the dead were militants, without saying how it arrived at its count. The military says 88 of its soldiers have been killed in the Gaza ground offensive. It accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields when the militants operate in residential areas. But Israel has not given detailed accounts of individual strikes, some of which have levelled entire city blocks. The Israeli military said Tuesday that its troops were "in the heart" of Khan Younis after what it described as "the most intense day" of fighting since the start of the ground operation five weeks ago, with heavy battles in the north as well. Hamas' continuing ability to fight in areas where Israel entered with overwhelming force weeks ago, signals that eradicating the group without causing further mass casualties and displacement  as Israel's top ally, the US, has requested  could prove elusive. Even after weeks of bombardment, Hamas' top leader in Gaza, Yehya Sinwar  whose location is unknown  was able to conduct complex cease-fire negotiations and orchestrate the release of scores of hostages last week. Palestinian militants have also kept up their rocket fire into Israel. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
New Delhi, Dec 5

A pple has asked the Indian government to exempt its existing iPhones from the requirement of a common charging port (USB-C) for electronics devices, as the Centre evaluates the possibility of mandating a common charger for most devices.

In a meeting with the IT Ministry officials late last month, Apple told the officials that if such a rule -- similar to what has been proposed by the European Union (EU) to require devices to have universal charging ports -- is brought, it may hamper its domestic manufacturing plans, reliable sources told IANS.

According to the tech giant, if such regulation is implemented on older models of mobile phones, Apple may not be able to meet the PLI (product-linked incentive) targets.

Reuters was first to report about this development. When reached, Apple did not comment on it.

India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) Chairman Pankaj Mohindroo told IANS that the industry is completely aligned with the government in implementing a uniform charging port regulation in the country to reduce e-waste and promote ease of living for consumers.

"The mobile phone industry has already adopted the Type-C USB port for charging and 100 per cent of the new models launched and sold in India are with type-C. We are working with the Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY) for a smoother transition of all the notified products like mobile phones, laptops, and tablets, which will be covered under the regulation," he said.

The latest iPhone 15 series models have been launched with the USB-C port and according to Apple, the design of the earlier products cannot be changed. According to industry experts, Apples fortunes in India have primarily been tied to older-generation iPhones, as the masses are using old-generation iPhone models.

"An early transition to USB-C, including on older-gen iPhones, could potentially strain Apple's supply chain and hit its fortunes," Prabhu Ram, Head-Industry Intelligence Group at CMR, told IANS.

In August, the Department of Consumer Affairs met industry representatives to evaluate the possibility of mandating a common charger for most devices. In the meeting with Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh, the ICEA and other industry stakeholders discussed the viability of a common charging port (USB-C) for electronics devices, including mobile phones.

"The charging port ecosystem has largely become rationalised, with the vast majority of feature phones (375 million) using micro-USB, and vast majority of smartphones (500 million) using USB-C. Low power devices (such as hearables /wearables, Bluetooth speakers) are also moving towards USB-C for higher-end items," Mohindroo had said.

The government is aiming at the possibility of adopting a universal charger model for all electronic devices, and will set up a panel seeking views on the proposal.

Apple iPhone shipments saw a 68 per cent (year-on-year) growth in India in the first half of 2023, driven by iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 series. Apple is likely to garner 7 per cent market share in 2023, according to CMR data. The growth in the Indian smartphone industry has been primarily driven by the Apple ecosystem, which alone crossed a record $5 billion in exports from India in FY23.

Apple requests India to exempt older iPhones from common charger requirement

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Bengaluru, Dec 5

S ri Sri Ravi Shankar will address the COP28 -- UN Climate Conference -- on December 6 on the theme of Peace Spirituality and Environment.

He will deliver the address at the Faith Pavilion in UAE during an interaction with Susana Muhamad, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development.

Ancient Indian tradition believes in the sanctity of nature. It perceived the mountains, rivers, Sun, Moon, and trees to be sacred and that which is sacred is honoured, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said.

He said that by reviving traditional reverence for nature, we could restore a degree of purity to our surroundings.

We can see God in nature -- this would make us more sensitive to the way we treat nature. Then you can't help but be environmentally conscious, he said.

A statement said that Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said that he will also share his views on 'How to mobilise your faith communities on land restoration' in a key inter-faith discussion at COP28.

He is on a four-day visit to Dubai, UAE.

Sri Sri Ravishankar to address UN Climate Conference in UAE

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Erie County legislators on Tuesday gave themselves $16 million to award as grants to organizations in their districts  one of the largest amounts of legislative handouts in recent county history.

The Legislature amended County Executive Mark Poloncarzs proposed 2024 budget to include the grant money.

The total includes $11 million  $1 million for each lawmaker  to distribute for construction and renovation projects to local governments and nonprofits.

Erie County comptroller's 'gloomy' budget review forecasts trouble ahead Erie County may be financially healthy at the moment, but Comptroller Kevin Hardwick is waiving the yellow caution flag and warning of the potential for expenses to outstrip revenue in two years unless changes are made.

Meanwhile, after resisting certain fee increases on county residents in recent years, the Legislature is approving new and higher fees for the health and parks departments for the first time in nearly a decade.

The $16 million in discretionary money is a lot compared with what legislators received prior to 2020, and the highest amount given to legislators during the annual budget process. But legislators have gotten used to receiving huge windfalls in recent years.

Legislators amended budget proposals and mid-year budget surplus resolutions to direct multimillion-dollar pots of money for their own spending plans in 2021 and 2022. That money paid for legislators pet projects at a time when the county was flush with cash, thanks to an infusion of federal stimulus aid during the Covid-19 pandemic and rapid growth in the county sales tax.

Given the recent pattern, it is hard to imagine there was a time, nearly 20 years ago, when legislators were expected to make do with nothing. That was the reality during the red-and-green county budget crisis. Even less than a decade ago, the 11 county legislators received less than $1 million in total to divvy up and spend in their own districts.

That is ancient history now. As the county has grown richer, county legislators have reaped the benefits in the form of big pots of handout money.

Erie County leaders cut property taxes and eliminate winter sales tax on home energy bills Erie County leaders have struck a deal to cut the total amount of property taxes the county collects from taxpayers. Officials have also negotiated terms that will eliminate sales taxes on home energy bills during the three coldest winter months.

With budget amendment packages unanimously supported by the Legislatures finance committee Tuesday, approval of the overall county budget is expected to go smoothly Thursday.

Much of the negotiating among Republicans, Democrats and the Poloncarz administration was done in July, when Republican legislators threatened to hold up critical votes on sales tax extensions until a deal was reached that will, for the first time in more than 20 years, cut the total amount of property taxes the county collects from taxpayers.

That $1 million drop in tax collections, however, may be offset for some residents by increases in other county fees, such as for sewers, that dont technically count as part of the county property tax levy.

Legislature spending

Like other years in the recent past, Republican legislators are receiving $75,000 each, and Democratic legislators are receiving $150,000 in 2024 to support their district cultural groups and nonprofit associations. Those earmarks include money for senior centers and food pantries and for theater and music groups, and $2.4 million in unspecified urban initiatives benefiting the cities of Buffalo, Lackawanna and Tonawanda.

While the majority party traditionally gets more handout money than the minority party, this is the first year that the County Legislature will receive an additional $1 million each in grant money to distribute to nonprofit groups and government organizations for physical construction, renovation and repair work.

This cash was previously set aside in 2022 and does not affect the bottom line of the 2024 budget. But the new budget deal does allow the Legislature to reallocate $11 million out of an original $25 million grant fund, which Poloncarz had previously highlighted in his 2022 State of the County address. At the time, he said this grant fund would pay for one-time construction upgrades and repairs for small-to-mid-sized arts and cultural organizations until the money ran out.

According to staff from the county Budget Office and Comptrollers Office, the administration awarded $8.6 million in grants from the fund in 2022, and $3.1 million dollars more this year from that fund.

Poloncarz to announce spending priorities that 'build a community' "It's going to focus on issues of resilience," Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz told The Buffalo News about his State of the County address. "The county, in itself, cannot solve the issues that are politicizing and creating divisiveness, but hopefully, we can do things to help bring the community together."

As part of its vetting process, the county reviewed all submitted proposals and considered such things as whether the organization owned its property or had permission from a landlord to do improvement work, and whether the work could reasonably be completed within a given timeframe, Deputy Budget Director Mark Cornell said.

That vetting process was bypassed by the County Legislature, which is now preparing to hand out $11 million for everything from the Darwin Martin House expansion to new headquarters for the Buffalo Urban League and police headquarters renovations for the Village of Kenmore, each of which would receive a full $1 million grant from legislators.

Smaller grants would go toward things such as park trail improvements in Cheektowaga, playground upgrades in Eden and Orchard Park, and shooting range renovations in Hamburg. After all this money is allocated through budget amendments, the fund will be left with $2.8 million.

History of handouts

It has only been within the last few years that legislators have negotiated such eye-popping amounts of discretionary grant money, derisively referred to as pork by critics. The amount had been steadily rising since the Democrats retook the Legislature majority in 2018 and determined there was an inequity between county spending for suburban and rural areas and for the city, which has few county parks and no county roads that typically receive county dollars.

But once federal stimulus money left the county with record surpluses, which had to be earmarked by the end of next year, and online sales tax money showed strong double-digit growth, county legislators have availed themselves of record discretionary spending money. Budget, comptroller and Legislature staff agree that the amount being allocated to legislators in recent years has no prior point of comparison.

In 2021, the Legislature Democrats availed themselves of nearly $17 million in RENEW Plan money, which included federal stimulus money, according to the Comptrollers Office. Three of the four Republican legislators, meanwhile, got nothing, though it wasnt clear how big the windfall was for Democrats until weeks later.

After weeks of debate, Erie County Legislature OKs stimulus plan: 'It was a lot of money' Lawmakers voted 7-4 along party lines for the $123.7 million plan presented three weeks ago by County Executive Mark Poloncarz, with Democrats voting in favor and Republican-supported legislators voting against it.

In 2022, legislators divided $8 million in leftover surplus money, which resulted in the four Republican legislators receiving $500,000 each to put toward pet projects in their districts.

In 2023, Legislature staff said concern about county costs associated with the November snowstorm resulted in each legislator still receiving the usual $75,000 to $150,000 in grant money, but no other major windfall as part of the budget process.

That is changing with the $11 million allocation of capital spending money being given to legislators to distribute.

County administrators said they have no insight on what type of vetting legislators did, or will do, for community groups receiving this money. But all contracts with these organizations will still to pass through the County Attorneys Office for review.

Higher fees and cut costs

Among the budget amendments legislators approved Tuesday was eliminating Sheriff John Garcias proposed, new six-person community outreach team, but some other new Sheriffs Office positions remain. The Legislature also cut $4.6 million in employee fringe benefits, which Cornell said the county can live with or make adjustments to later.

Advocates denounce $31 million spending bump for Erie County Sheriff's Office Nearly half of the more than 50 speakers at the County Legislature's budget hearing urged legislators to vote against increases in Sheriff's Office funding. Many recommended that the millions of dollars be redirected to services related to mental health, housing, health assistance and education.

Finally, the legislators allowed new fee proposals from the parks and health commissioners to remain in the budget.

That includes four pages of fee adjustments for the Health Department for everything from public health lab analyses and Medical Examiners Office fees, some of which included major increases. That is especially true of the fees associated for things such as autopsies for outside counties that do not have a contract with Erie County. Spokeswoman Kara Kane said some of these fees have not changed in nearly a decade or more.

The Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry also proposes raising fees for renting county park shelters and buildings, as well as campground fees. Parks Commissioner Troy Schinzel said those fees have been unchanged since 2014.
Guwahati, Dec 5

A ssam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday asserted that overall crime in the state has decreased by at least 50 per cent in the last two years.

Taking to 'X', Sarma wrote: "The latest NCRB report suggests overall crime in Assam has reduced by nearly 50 per cent since 2021.

"Our efforts in transparent recruitment and investments in SMART policing is bearing fruit. We will not rest till Assam is crime free," he added.

Assam saw a 48.26 per cent decrease in cognisable offenses to about 69,000 instances in 2022, according to a recent report of National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).

The agency, which reports to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, states that Assam had 68,937 overall criminal cases in 2022 -- a decrease from 1,33,239 in 2021.

Of these, the number of cases reported under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) dropped from 1,19,883 in 2021 to 59,315 in 2022.

According to the NCRB data, the number of crimes according to Special and Local Laws (SLL) decreased to 9,622 from 13,356 in 2021.

Moreover, Assam saw 194.2 reported crimes for every lakh people in the previous year.

Meanwhile, Assam DGP Gyanendra Pratap Singh said in a post on 'X': "Crystal clear directions & mandate, accompanied by trust reposed in us has made this possible. We strive to improve further."

Overall crime in Assam dipped 50%: Himanta Biswa Sarma

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Aizawl, Dec 5

M izorams outgoing Chief Minister Zoramthanga on Tuesday resigned as Mizo National Front (MNF) President after the party suffered a humiliating defeat in the just concluded assembly polls at the hands of the Zoram Peoples Movement (ZPM).

In his resignation letter sent to MNF Senior Vice-President and Deputy Chief Minister Tawnluia, the octogenarian tribal leader said that he took the moral responsibility as the head of the party for its electoral defeat.

"The MNF fails to win the state Assembly polls. In this regard, I take moral responsibility as party President. Considering that it is my obligation as the MNF chief, I do hereby tender resignation from the President's post and kindly request you to accept the same," he said in the letter.

Immediately after the declaration of results on Monday, Zoramthanga met Governor Hari Babu Kamabhampat and tendered his resignation as Chief Minister.

Zoramthanga lost his Aizawl East-1 seat where ZPM nominee Lalthansanga won by a margin of 2,101 votes.

Tawnluia also lost his Tuichang seat to ZPMs W. Chhuanawma by a margin of 909 votes.

The militant outfit turned political party MNF got only 10 seats and 35.10 per cent vote in the November 7 elections, the results of which were declared on Monday. The ruling party secured 26 seats and 37.70 per cent vote in the 2018 Assembly polls.

The ZPM, formed in 2018, secured 27 seats and 37.86 per cent vote in the 40-member Mizoram assembly, to wrest power in the Christian-dominated state.

The MNF emerged from Mizo National Famine Front (MNFF) , a platform that protested the inaction of the Centre during the 1959 famine in Mizo people inhabited areas. The front, led by charismatic leader Laldenga, staged a militant uprising in 1966 and for several years carried out underground activities. Normalcy returned to Mizoram following the signing of Mizo peace accord in 1986 under then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

Mizoram CM Zoramthanga resigns as MNF President after party's poll debacle

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Washington, Dec 6

A possible second term for former US President Donald Trump "poses a threat to the existence of America as we know it", the editor of a US-based magazine has said.

Jeffrey Goldberg, Editor-in-Chief of The Atlantic, said he refuses to go gently into that good night. "We cant participate in the normalization of Donald Trump," an impassioned Goldberg said. "I refuse to participate in the normalization of Donald Trump," Goldberg was quoted by US media reports as saying.

Goldberg is one of the few major newsroom leaders who has been exceptionally clear-eyed about the perilous storm on the horizon for American democracy. Using plain language, Goldberg and his team of writers at the magazine have not shied away from portraying Trump as a vandal of civilized society and an outright menace to the US Constitution, a CNN columnist wrote on Tuesday.

On Monday, The Atlantic published a special edition of its monthly magazine focusing on what a second Trump term would look like.

The aptly-titled "If Trump Wins" issue features two dozen articles laying out how the twice-impeached, four-time indicted candidate would shred norms, weaponize government, warp the rule of law, and degrade democracy, reports said.

Trump faces 90 counts of felony, a $250 million civil and criminal tax fraud trial in Manhattan, cancellation of his business licenses, subversion of the electoral processes and conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election verdict electing Joe Biden as the President in Washington DC and Georgia.

"I want people to be able to hand this issue to people who are still unsure about the nature of Trump's authoritarianism," Goldberg explained.

While most leaders of major American newspapers hold to the belief that Trump will rule as an authoritarian, it is rare to hear any of them saying so aloud -- especially in such frank terms. But Goldberg is more than comfortable doing so. He points out that his position is not a partisan one.

"It's not about Republicans and Democrats," he stressed, but "about authoritarians versus pro-democracy Americans". And, in his view, not being open with readers about dangerous forces on the march would amount to a dereliction of duty, the CNN analyst said.

"I would prefer journalists to speak plainly about what they're seeing," Goldberg said. "And I believe that a second Trump term poses a threat to the existence of America as we know it."

"It is not that difficult for newsrooms to say they are pro-democracy. Most leaders in the Fourth Estate have no problem saying so. The conundrum they face is that in this dark time in which we find ourselves, staking out a vocal pro-democracy stance effectively means being anti-Trump. Most news organizations are not comfortable in that turf, as it could be perceived as partisan and turn away audiences. This is one of the discomforting aspects of this whole dilemma that people in the news media face," Goldberg noted.

"Our eyes and ears tell us that Donald Trump fomented an insurrection against the Constitution. Right? We saw it. We heard it. It happened. That means that he placed himself outside the norms of American democratic behaviour. That is why I am comfortable devoting an entire issue to answering the question of what a second Trump term would look like and reaching the conclusion that it would be terrible. Absolutely terrible."

When asked by the CNN analyst whether being outspoken about the prospect of a second Trump presidency could alienate otherwise persuadable audiences, Goldberg argued that self-censorship is not the solution. As he put it, "At a certain point, you can't convince people of reality".

"All we can do is try to present fairly and completely our fact-checked views of Trump and Trumpism and hope that people read it and understand that we are trying to be truthful with our readers and truthful with ourselves and transparent," Goldberg said.

"And if some voters in America can't handle that, then they can't handle that. There's not much I can do about it."

"And this is the dilemma facing all journalism institutions," Goldberg continued. "We'd like to be able to speak to 100 per cent of Americans. But at a certain point you don't want to twist or muffle or downplay certain realities simply because reporting those realities offends a segment of your audience."

Goldberg personally knows that being candid and reporting aggressively on Trump can come with severe consequences. After Goldberg reported in September 2020 that Trump had disparaged American service members who had died in the war as "suckers" and "losers" (something former White House chief of staff John Kelly later confirmed on the record to Jake Tapper), he had to move out of his house over security concerns for a period.

But, he warned, a second Trump presidency could be even worse for the press. And, for that reason, members of the news media will need to contemplate their editorial decisions now, given Trump's already-declared hopes to muzzle critics if he were to regain power.

"We all understand that Trump thinks of us as enemies of the state, and we understand that there are consequences for us that come with this belief," Goldberg said. "There's a chance that he would try to somehow criminalize reporting in a second term, and so we have to sound the alarm about that, along with the more generalized threats to American democracy. And we have to sound the alarm now."

'Second term for Trump poses threat to existence of America'

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Chennai, December 6

A s of now, six deaths have been reported in the Greater Chennai Police jurisdiction in view of the Michaung cyclone, reported Chennai police.

Heavy rains have caused flooding in Chennai, and rescue workers have been deployed to evacuate residents from affected areas.

Arumbakkam area of Chennai remains waterlogged following heavy rainfall.

Green Corridors of Airport to Anna Salai and ECR are maintained and advised for emergency travel. Other roads have waterlogging of at least 1 foot.

Traffic has been closed on Manjambakkam to Vadaperumbakkam Road due to water release from the Puzhal Lake.

DDRT Teams are working with the Government and Highways Department to clear major water logging areas.

"A total of 225 people were rescued from Ganesapuram, Slaterpuram, and Shanmuga Street in the Santhome area. 15 people were rescued from Anbu Nagar. 6 people, including two senior citizens and two children, were rescued from their flooded home in West Mambalam. 8 people, including a woman, were rescued from Ram Nagar and sent to a shelter. 4 people were rescued from Anna Nagar," stated the Chennai Police release.

According to Chennai Police, 8 people were rescued from Canal Street, Marina, and sent to a community hall. 250 people were rescued from Anna Sathya Nagar and sent to a relief center. 22 passengers, including two women, were rescued from a bus that got stuck in the rain and sent to a school. 60 people were rescued from Bethel Nagar and taken to schools and a government building. 50 people were rescued from Mettukuppam. 30 people were rescued from Nehru Nagar. Two families were rescued from collapsed houses in Triplicane.

The fire department captured a 14-foot-long King Cobra that had entered a residential area in Bhagavathipuram village. It was handed over to the forest department.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister MK Stalin on Wednesday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking an immediate interim relief fund of Rs 5060 crores. CM Stalin also requested the PM to send a central team to review the damages caused by the Cyclone in the state.

The letter will be given to PM Modi in person by DMK MP TR Baalu in Delhi. Tamil Nadu CM also inspected the cyclone affected areas on Wednesday morning.

In the late hours of Tuesday, CM Stalin posted on X and said that the entire government machinery has been working hard to remove the effects of Cyclone Michaung.

"The entire government machinery, such as ministers, officials, police, sanitation workers, and corporation workers are working hard to quickly remove the effects of the Cyclone Michaung calamity that surrounds us. I request that many more comrades should immediately join hands with the relief work along with the members of the club who are helping in the field. Members of the affected areas come quickly!" CM Stalin said on X.

Earlier, on Tuesday, DMK MP Kanimozhi said the Tamil Nadu government is much more prepared to deal with the situation than in 2015, when incessant rains caused flooding in Chennai, causing loss of lives and property damage.

"In the last two days, we had more than 33 cm of rainfall, which is much more than what we had in 2015. However, the government was better equipped to deal with the situation this time. Many people have been evacuated (from low-lying areas) and moved to (relief) shelters," Kanimozhi told ANI on Tuesday.

"As many as 411 relief shelters have already been arranged. Water has also been pumped out of most of the areas and power has been restored to more than 60-70 per cent of the houses," the DMK MP added.

Meanwhile, Deep Depression a remnant of Cyclonic Storm "Michaung," weakened into a depression over Northeast Telangana, India Meterological Department said.

The Met Department in its latest bulletin said that the Deep Depression (Remnant ofCyclonic Storm "MICHAUNG") had weakened into a Depression over Northeast Telangana and adjoining south Chhattisgarh-south InteriorOdisha-Coastal AP, about 50 km east-northeast of Khammam, To weaken further into a Well marked Low Pressure Area in next 06 hrs.

Tamil Nadu: Six died after heavy rainfall due to cyclone Michaung in Chennai

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The latest rankings are in, and New York State is either the absolute worst place in America, among the best places in the United States, or somewhere in between.

Which raises two obvious, and related, questions: How can the states rating vary so widely from one publication or think tank to the next? And how seriously do people and businesses making relocation decisions rely on such analyses?

They look at it  but it all depends on what the writer is using for context and information, said Thomas Kucharski, president and CEO of Invest Buffalo Niagara, the regions business development organization, who notes that there is a big difference between livability and the ability to find skilled workers or supply chains.

They are somewhat subjective in the way they look at things, Kucharski said of such ratings.

The Cato Institute, for instance, doesnt even call its analyses a ranking of the best places to live. Rather, its an Index of Personal and Economic Freedom.

With that focus, the libertarian think tank has put New York dead last every year since it started compiling its list in 2000. According to the institute  and lots of other critics  New Yorks high taxes and spending levels earn the state its ignominious ranking.

Cato calls New Yorks local and state taxes crushing. As an example, it cites a cigarette tax so high as to be almost tantamount to prohibition. Thats even though 12% of adults still manage to afford to smoke, according to the state Health Department, a figure right in line with the 11.5% national rate.

But, to the point about context, if youre concerned about public health over the freedom to kill yourself and pollute the air, high tobacco taxes could be viewed as a positive, not a negative.

Living well is taxing

Similarly, high state and local taxes might not seem so bad if they pay for the services that create a higher standard of living  though Im not sure living conditions here are that much better than everywhere else.

Critics also chafe at New Yorks regulatory regime, which Cato wryly concedes is no longer the most onerous in the nation, with the state having jumped all the way up to 48th in that category. But, again, it is a double-edged sword. While the freedom-loving think tank bristles at New Yorks minimum wage and paid family leave, others will consider those selling points that enhance the quality of life for residents struggling to get by.

WalletHub, for instance, ranks New York the fourth best state to live in  behind only Massachusetts, New Jersey and New Hampshire  thanks to some of those very same factors that Cato considers a negative.

The personal finance company looked at 51 measures across five broad categories and ranked the state No. 1 in quality of life, which includes everything from hours worked per week and commute times to restaurants and cultural venues per capita. The state ranked No. 3 in safety, based on crime rates, traffic fatalities and the number of cops per capita.

Dragging down New Yorks overall rating  surprise  is its 47th place ranking for affordability, which factors in housing costs, property taxes, cost of living and income, as well its middle-of-the-pack showing when it comes to the economy, where it placed 28th in WalletHubs analysis.

Meanwhile, U.S. News & World Report splits the difference between Cato and WalletHub, ranking New York 20th overall across eight categories. The state scores a high of No. 2 when it comes to the environment because of air and water quality and levels of pollution.

New York also scores well  ninth  in both education, based on factors such as standardized test scores and high school graduation rates, and in health care, winning points for access to care and measures of public health such as rates of mortality, smoking, infant mortality, suicide and obesity.

But dragging down the state  again  is its rating as the 49th best place for opportunity, which includes affordability, as well as economic opportunity.

Finding a sweet spot

None of those low rankings in the tax, costs and regulatory categories will come as any surprise to business owners. In Siena Colleges most recent survey of upstate CEOs, released in March, 54% said the economy had worsened, only 19% expected it to improve this year and only 11% felt the state is doing a good job of creating a favorable business climate.

That jibes with the findings of the Tax Foundations annual State Business Tax Climate Index, which the Buffalo Niagara Partnership considers the gold standard of such surveys. The foundation ranked New York 49th out of the 50 states based on factors such as its individual income taxes, sales taxes and property taxes.

I always say were grateful for New Jersey, said Dottie Gallagher, Partnership president and CEO, referring to the only state that the Tax Foundation ranked below New York.

The Sienna survey, commissioned by the Business Council of New York State, also found that 75% of the business leaders were having difficulty filling open jobs, with 82% saying there arent enough trained workers. And while more than half of the CEOs favor tax reform and spending cuts, about 40% want infrastructure and workforce development and business development incentives.

In other words, they want government to do more to help business, while doing with less in terms of resources.

That contradiction hardly makes the CEOs unique. Most of us want the government to do more of what we value and spend less on everything else. But surveys that focus so singularly on the costs of doing business to the exclusion of what else makes New York a good place to live can be not only skewed, but counterproductive when looked at in isolation.

To its credit, Invest Buffalo Niagara recognizes that. While obviously focused on attracting and developing businesses, the organizations Be In Buffalo campaign also highlights the regions world-renowned art museums, spacious parks, legendary architecture, and professional sports.

All of those selling points have been supported by taxpayer dollars.

If outsiders visit the area because they heard about those amenities and they like what they find, Kucharski notes, it could lead to them  or their business  coming here when its time to relocate.

On the other hand, Weve always known it was a great place to live, but its hard to live if you cant work in your profession, he said.

So, the tax-supported amenities and the business climate go hand in hand. The trick is finding the sweet spot along the tax-and-spend scale that creates attractions without killing businesses. Could the state trim spending a bit and still maintain its high quality of life? No doubt.

But New Yorks ranking in surveys that look at more than just tax and regulatory policies indicate that it has already found that sweet spot, or is pretty close to it.

Whats the best place to live? As with politics itself, the answer is: Somewhere in the middle.
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Gayle L. Syposs, the first woman to be elected to the Common Council in the City of Tonawanda, was always ready to speak up about issues and step forward to get things done.

She first took that step in 1971. As head of a grass-roots group, Citizens Opposed to the Niagara Arterial, she stood firm and defeated a state plan to widen Niagara Street into an express route along the Niagara River.

Its the best thing I ever did in my life, she told Buffalo News Niagara reporter Nancy A. Fischer in 2018. The Department of Transportations proposal would have cut into the park. There would be no pavilion, no bathrooms and 30% of our current park would be taken over by a four-lane highway.

It was the beginning of a half-century political career that saw her become a Democratic Party leader in the Tonawandas and Erie County.

She died Nov. 11 under hospice care in her Tonawanda home following a diagnosis of cancer earlier this year. She was 80.

We lost a trailblazer and a wonderful leader for the Democratic Party, Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz said in a post on Instagram.

Gayles impact on the community is felt by those of us that she has mentored, Erie County Democratic Chairman Jeremy J. Zellner wrote following her death, as well as the many projects that she has spearheaded in her beloved City of Tonawanda and the hundreds of elected officials that she played a key role in electing.

Born Gayle L. Barr in North Tonawanda, the older of two girls, she was the daughter of Ralph L. and Emma Barr. Her father was a postman in the City of Tonawanda. In 1962, the year after she graduated from Tonawanda High School, she was married to Chauncey R. Syposs Jr.

She first ran for Tonawanda Council in 1973 on the Liberal Party line and finished last in a field of five. Nevertheless, it reinforced her standing as a civic leader and she soon was appointed to the citys Citizens Advisory Committee. Two years later she won Democratic endorsement and took one of the two Third Ward seats.

During her first two two-year terms, she pushed unsuccessfully to set up a commission to revise the City Charter, which had been unchanged for more than 70 years, and headed the committee that oversaw the introduction of cable television in the city, eventually gaining concessions on pricing and service from the winning bidder. She also chaired a study group to unify paramedic services with North Tonawanda.

In 1979, Mrs. Syposs became the first woman to run for Tonawanda mayor. An outspoken critic of the citys urban renewal plans, she promised to retain the citys small-town atmosphere. She lost to incumbent G. Delwin Hervey by 426 votes. She reclaimed her Third Ward seat in 1981 and went on to serve a total of 12 years on the Council.

She revived a plan to renovate the citys aging water treatment plant instead of getting water elsewhere at a higher price. She also advocated centralizing police and fire dispatching, became a leading critic of residential development plans for the site of the former Continental Can Co. factory along the river and successfully opposed establishing a campground in Niawanda Park.

Returning to the Council for a single term in the mid-1990s, she became a member of a new City Charter revision committee and saw a new charter go into effect in 1998 that shifted day-to-day responsibility for municipal operations away from the Council.

This place has been running by the seat of its pants for too many years, she told The News at the time.

She made a second run for mayor in 2005, losing to Ronald J. Pilozzi by 331 votes.

Outside of politics, Mrs. Syposs was office manager for a local real estate firm in the 1970s and owned a delicatessen on Broad Street a few doors away from her home in the 1980s.

In 1989, she began working for the Erie County Board of Elections and was assistant deputy commissioner in 1996 when her job was reassigned during a budget crisis. She continued as a network coordinator until 2005.

She became vice chair of the Erie County Democratic Committee in 2006 and served a single term as Tonawanda city clerk from 2016 to 2018.

She was ready to go to Milwaukee in 2020 to celebrate her 78th birthday at the Democratic National Convention, but the convention went virtual because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

I finally get to be a delegate, she told News Washington Bureau Chief Jerry Zremski, and theres no convention I can go to.

Her husband, an auditor for the State Department of Health, died in 2016.

Survivors include two sons, Chauncey R. III and Derrick A.; a sister, Kathleen Maguire; and two grandchildren.

A memorial service was held Nov. 18 in Bethesda Full Gospel Tabernacle, City of Tonawanda.
The pre-pandemic supply chain

Disruptions during the pandemic

Immediate responses and quick fixes

Strategies to enhance resilience

The way forward: long-term solutions

References

Further reading

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic significantly altered how many industries worked, not least the global healthcare industry. In particular, healthcare supply chains were drastically impacted by the pandemic. Healthcare supply chains have not returned to their previous operations; it seems they have been forever changed.

Image Credit: InkheartX/Shutterstock.com

The pre-pandemic supply chain

Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the operations of healthcare supply chains focussed on cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and most often worked on a just-in-time method of inventory management. Below, we discuss some of the key features of healthcare supply chains in the pre-pandemic era.

The just-in-time strategy involves moving supplies just before they are needed. If needs are anticipated accurately, then this method allows little inventory to be stocked, which can reduce storage costs.

The just-in-time approach goes hand-in-hand with the lean inventory management approach. This is where stockpiling is reduced to as minimal as possible; the aim here is to strike the perfect balance between supply and demand, reducing the overheads of keeping stock while being able to respond to demand without incurring long wait times.

Before the pandemic, healthcare supply chains very often used these lean, just-in-time approaches.

In addition, in the pre-pandemic era, healthcare supply chains were often globalized, meaning that medicines and devices were sourced from across the globe - the assumption being that access to these supplies is rapid and simple given global travel.

The COVID-19 pandemic rapidly highlighted vulnerabilities in the healthcare supply chain. With the breakdown of global logistics, supply chains rapidly broke down. The just-in-time approach could not work in a world where international supplies were no longer accessible. Lean inventories were wiped out as demand rapidly exceeded supply.

Disruptions during the pandemic

Over the course of the pandemic, supply chain breakdowns became common. People around the world felt the impact of this, from food shortages in supermarkets to the lack of access to personal protective equipment.

Extreme shortages in access to diagnostic tests and equipment needed to protect healthcare workers are some of the hallmarks of the pandemic. These shortages reflect breakdowns in healthcare supply chains.

The US healthcare supply chains heavily relied on imports of masks manufacturing in China. Using a just-in-time approach meant that when the pandemic unexpectedly hit, the US did not have enough masks stockpiled at home to respond to the healthcare crisis. As China stopped shipments to the US during the outbreak, the US ran into huge difficulties in providing healthcare professionals with the equipment they needed.

Image Credit: TarikVision/Shutterstock.com

Immediate responses and quick fixes

In the US, hospitals saw their orders of medical masks go unfilled. Some hospitals were forced to pay as much as $5.20 per mask due to the inflated costs of PPE caused by shortages.

In the UK, the healthcare system was facing a shortage of ventilators at the beginning of the pandemic. The government responded by launching the Ventilator Challenge, calling manufacturers and medical device companies to ramp up production of existing ventilators and design new ones. More than 5,000 companies offered their support, resulting in the production of over 14,000 ventilators in just three months.

Strategies to enhance resilience

Since the pandemic, healthcare supply chains have evolved so that they are better protected from future unexpected events. Domestic production in many countries has increased so that supply chains are less reliant on imports from overseas. Supply chains are also diversifying their suppliers. The more suppliers a supply chain has already vetted, the more resilient it is to events that suddenly affect manufacturing operations or logistics.

The COVID-19 pandemic had the impact of accelerating the digital transformation of supply chains. For the years leading up to the pandemic, supply chains had been undergoing digital transformation. The disruption caused by the pandemic, however, forced accelerated progress of this transformation.

Supply chains are now more reliant on artificial intelligence (AI) to help predict demand more accurately so that stockpiles can be better prepared. AI is also being used to improve warehouse logistics, inventory management, and quality control, resulting in sleeker, more cost-effective operations that are more responsive to the needs of the market.

The way forward: long-term solutions

Since the pandemic, there has been a resurgence in regional supply chains. There is a trend to rely more heavily on local suppliers rather than distant, international ones. Supply chains are also beginning to see the benefit of forging stronger private-public partnerships, such as ensuring greater protection and reduced financial risk for a supply chain.

Finally, there has been a push towards integrating transparency and ethical considerations into supply chain strategies. This has come from the demand for increased supply chain transparency following the breakdowns of the pandemic, along with increasing consumer awareness and interest in purchasing supplies that have been produced ethically.

References

Balkhi, B., Alshahrani, A. and Khan, A. (2022)  Just-in-time approach in healthcare inventory management: Does it really work?  , Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, 30(12), pp. 18301835. doi:10.1016/j.jsps.2022.10.013.

Just-in-time approach in healthcare inventory management: Does it really work? , Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, 30(12), pp. 18301835. doi:10.1016/j.jsps.2022.10.013. COVID-19 accelerates supply chain digital transformation [online]. KPMG. Available at: https://info.kpmg.us/news-perspectives/technology-innovation/covid-19-accelerates-supply-chain-digital-transformation.html (Accessed December 2023)

Jessica Glenza. 2020. US hospitals fall back on billionaires to make up for shortfall in protective equipment [online]. The Guardian. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/20/ppe-gowns-masks-us-hospitals-shortages-coronavirus (Accessed December 2023)

Ventilator Challenge hailed a success as UK production finishes [online]. Gov.uk. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ventilator-challenge-hailed-a-success-as-uk-production-finishes (Accessed December 2023)

Olga Khazan. 2020. Why We  re Running Out of Masks [online]. Available at: https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2020/04/why-were-running-out-of-masks-in-the-coronavirus-crisis/609757/ (Accessed December 2023)

Further Reading
In a recent study published in the journal NPJ Digital Medicine, researchers reviewed current guidelines on the ethical implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in military and healthcare applications. Their discussions focus on generative AI, a novel technology aimed at efficiently generating information, and attempts to overcome currently prevalent limitations on the ethical use of the technology. They develop and propose a novel system for the ethical application of AI to military and clinical research, named the GREAT PLEA.

Image Credit: CHIEW / Shutterstock

AI and the need for ethics

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. With the increasing computational power of modern hardware and the widespread adoption of smart devices, access to and the adoption of AI is higher than ever. AI has percolated into and revolutionized almost every aspect of modern human society, with machine learning tools seeing widespread utilization in online advertisements, scientific research, and military simulations.

The military sector particularly benefits from AI tools, with the ongoing conflicts between Russia and Ukraine expected to pave the way for autonomous AI-guided weapon systems. Unfortunately, the development of AI tools is rarely accompanied by an ethical evaluation of the system, with collateral damages to non-combatants or friend forces left unconsidered.

Seeing the rapid emergence of AI and its applications in the military, the United States Department of Defense (DOD) disclosed ethical principles for AI in 2020.

These principles comprise five critical aspects of AI-centric ethics: responsibility, equitable treatment, traceability, reliability, and governance. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) adopted these principles and expanded them to include lawfulness, explainability, and bias mitigation. These ethical introductions highlight the caution prominent military bodies impose on AI tools and the steps they are taking to mitigate unwanted AI outcomes.

Similar to the military importance of AI tools, these technologies share similar merits and cautions in the medical sector. AI applications in medicine usually involve using these technologies to aid clinicians in disease diagnoses and suggest treatments. However, in some cases, AI has begun replacing entire departments of formerly human staff.

The figure illustrates the commonalities and differences in ethical principles between military and healthcare. In our assessment, traceability, reliability, lawfulness, accountability, governability, and equity are the ethical principles that both fields have in common. At the same time, ethical principles, such as empathy and privacy, are emphasized in healthcare, whereas ethical principles, such as national security and defense, are emphasized in the military.

Generative AI (GenAI) is a novel type of artificial intelligence (AI) designed to produce new content. It learns patterns from existing data and uses this knowledge to generate new outputs. Despite proving extremely useful in drug discovery, evidence-based medicine summarization, and equipment design, these models are designed to optimize desired black and white outcomes without concern for any potential (grey) collateral damages. This necessitates ethically driven curbs on AI results, which, unfortunately, remains under-discussed. Furthermore, malicious use of AI-developed technologies remains rarely considered, much less discussed.

Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a document on ethical considerations in the medical adoption of AI. However, this document remains in its nascency with much work, both research and discussion, pending before trust in AI can sufficiently allow it to take over formerly human roles.

We propose the GREAT PLEA ethical principles for generative AI in healthcare, namely G overnability, R eliability, E quity, A ccountability, T raceability, P rivacy, L awfulness, E mpathy, and A utonomy. The GREAT PLEA ethical principles demonstrate our great plea for the community to prioritize these ethical principles when implementing and utilizing generative AI in practical healthcare settings.

The current scenario

Since discussions on ethics in AI in the medical field remain controversial and rarely touched upon, most research into bias reductions and algorithm optimizations is focused on the military sphere. Studies and reports, most notably by the RAND Corporation, have aimed to consolidate legal obligations (such as the Geneva Conventions and the Law of Armed Conflict [LOAC]) with public opinion in developing critical guidelines for the ethical development and use of AI algorithms, especially generative AI.

Ongoing military research proposes that, while AI can be used for most military applications, AI is currently not advanced enough to accurately distinguish between combatants and civilians, necessitating a Human-In-The-Loop (HITL) prior to the activation of lethal weapon systems. Simultaneously, the aforementioned principles laid out by NATO and the US DOD have allowed for the development of cutting-edge AI algorithms with ethical considerations baked into their code (for example, erring on the side of caution when collateral damage is a potential outcome of a proposed action).

The success of these ethical principles has also been demonstrated through their ability to adopt and embed AI mindfully, taking into account AIs potential dangers, which the Pentagon is determined to avoid.

Public opinion in the US seems confounding, with some people viewing the autonomous military decision-making of AI systems favorably, while others do not reconcile with the idea of AI initiating combat action without human authorization.

These results could be due to the perceived lack of accountability, which is considered something that could entirely negate the value of AI, as a fully autonomous system that makes its own decisions distances military operators or clinicians from the responsibility of the systems actions.

The GREAT PLEA for AI in clinical settings

In the present work, the authors develop and propose a novel system for the ethical use of generative AI in medical environments. Christened the GREAT PLEA, the system encapsulates and builds upon ethical documents published by the US DOD, the American Medical Association (AMA), the WHO, and the Coalition for Health AI (CHAI). NATOs principles have been notably excluded due to their overdependence on AIs adherence to International Military Law, which does not apply to the clinical setting. In all else, NATOs recommendations are nearly identical to those prescribed by the US DOD principles.

The GREAT PLEA is an abbreviation for Governability, Reliability, Equity, Accountability, and Traceability, all of which are common between military and medical domains. Privacy, Lawfulness, Empathy, and Autonomy are concerns emphasized in the healthcare spectrum and form a novel set of considerations hitherto ignored in medical literature.

Since generative AI necessitates guidelines that consider misinformation, potential data bias, and generalized evaluation metrics, these nine principles form the foundation for future AI systems to exist and function with minimal human intervention.

These principles can be enforced through cooperation with lawmakers and the establishment of standards for developers and users, as well as a partnership with recognized governing bodies within the healthcare sector, such as the WHO or AMA.
In a recent study published in the journal JAMA Network Open, researchers evaluated the association between sleep patterns and age-associated cognitive alterations among older adults.

Study: Longitudinal Sleep Patterns and Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults. Image Credit: Tero Vesalainen / Shutterstock

Background

Amyloid deposition, which appears 15 years before cognitive impairment, precedes cognitive decline. The most effective treatment strategy may be to target pathogenic mechanisms early in the disease's progression. Identifying the factors that precede cognitive and functional decline can lead to therapy and prevention decades before the development of dementia.

Sleep disturbance has been associated with dementia; however, it is unknown how longitudinal variations in sleep affect the occurrence of cognitive impairments. Short sleep duration and poor sleep quality are associated with a higher pathological load of Alzheimer's disease. Simple sleep metrics restrict studies that demonstrate a relationship between chronic sleep disturbance and dementia diagnosis.

About the study

In the present study, researchers investigated whether longitudinal patterns of self-documented sleep duration were associated with cognitive impairment among older adults.

The team longitudinally analyzed the Seattle Longitudinal Study (SLS) data; the study assessed cognitive function (between 1997 and 2020) and self-documented sleep durations (between 1993 and 2012) among older adults. The team enrolled SLS participants from the Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) of Washington and the Group Health Cooperative (GHC) of Puget Sound from 1956 to 2020. The researchers included only individuals who provided complete demographic data and those who were administered the neuropsychologic battery and filled out the Health Behavior Questionnaire (HBQ).

Self-reported demographic data included sex (male or female), ethnicity, race, apolipoprotein E 4 (APOE*E4) allele carrier status, and educational attainment. The participants filled out the HBQ every three to five years, five times from 1993 to 2012, and underwent neuropsychological assessments every five to seven years from 1997 to 2019. Cognitive impairment was the study outcome, as described by performances below thresholds on the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale (DRS, scores below 129) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE, scores below 26). In addition, the SLS neuropsychological battery included the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D).

Sleep duration was self-reported as the median of night sleep over the previous week and evaluated longitudinally at several time points. The researchers evaluated sleep phenotypes [short sleep (less than seven hours), medium sleep (seven hours), long sleep (more than seven hours)], median duration of sleep, sleep duration alterations, and sleep variability. They performed Cox proportional-type hazard regression modeling to determine the hazard ratios (HRs) and data analysis between September 2020 and May 2023.

Results

Among the SLS participants enrolled initially, only 1,104 who completed neuropsychological assessments and the HBQ were included in the study after excluding 278 individuals lacking demographic information, especially the APOE genotype. As a result, 826 individuals [with a mean age of 76 years; 57% (n=468) women; 26% (n=217) APOE*E4 carriers] comprised the study population.

Cox proportional regression modeling (concordance, 0.8) showed that higher variability in sleep patterns (HR, 3.1) and short sleeper status (HR, 3.7) were significantly related to cognitive impairment. The team observed higher cognitive decline with advancing age. Of 614 individuals, 44 (seven percent) showed a cognitive decline at the final assessment, with a higher cognitive decline among older individuals.

Educational attainment (HR, 1.2) and possessing 1.0 APOE*E4 copies (HR, 2.1) were significantly related to cognitive impairment. Modeling considering the influence of depression showed that APOE*E4 carrier status (HR, 2.1) and educational attainment (HR, 1.1) were significantly related to cognitive decline risk. Short sleepers (HR, 2.8) and increasing variability in sleep patterns (HR, 2.2) were significantly related to age-associated cognitive decay.

Incorporating longitudinal sleep assessment parameters in the models showed that several factors were significantly related to cognitive impairment risk, including educational attainment (HR, 1.3), APOE*E4 carrier status (HR, 2.7), short-sleep phenotypes (HR, 3.7), and higher variability in sleep patterns (HR, 3.1). The study found a significant correlation between age and educational attainment, with older individuals being less educated.

However, the team found no significant differences in APOE*E4 allele status by age. Global CES-D scores showed that individuals aged 65 to 84 years reported lower depression compared to those aged <56 and 85 years. Age also significantly influenced sleep duration, with older individuals experiencing longer sleep durations and fewer short- and medium-sleepers. Age was associated with lower sleep variability across longitudinal sleep duration assessments.

Overall, the study findings showed that short sleep duration and significant sleep variability were associated with poor cognitive function. Chronic sleep disturbance may raise cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, stroke, depression, and diabetes risks, which increase cognitive decay risk. Sleep deprivation is associated with increased amyloid plaque load as well as faster ventricular enlargement, aggravating Alzheimer's disease-associated neurodegeneration. Sleep-active-type glymphatic activity aids amyloid, -synuclein, and tau clearance, whereas acute sleep deprivation decreases it.
Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers-;only about one in eight patients survives five years after diagnosis. Those dismal statistics are in part due to the thick, nearly impenetrable wall of fibrosis, or scar tissue, that surrounds most pancreatic tumors and makes it hard for drugs to access and destroy the cancer cells.

Now, researchers at the Salk Institute have discovered how a class of anti-cancer drugs called HDAC inhibitors can help treat pancreatic cancer by modulating the activation of fibroblasts-;the cells that make up that wall of scar tissue.

The new research was published in Nature Communications on December 6, 2023.

"These drugs turn out to be hitting both the tumor itself as well as the fibrotic tissue around it. This could be a very effective way to treat pancreatic cancers, which have typically been very difficult to reach," says senior author Professor Ronald Evans, director of Salk's Gene Expression Laboratory and March of Dimes Chair in Molecular and Developmental Biology.

In response to a new pancreatic tumor, the pancreas typically activates fibroblasts-;the connective cells that support the structure of most organs. When flipped from a resting state to an active state, fibroblasts build a thick layer of scar tissue around the cancer. While this normal protective mechanism can help wall off a cancer and prevent its spread, fibroblasts also produce signaling molecules that the tumor itself takes advantage of to grow.

In the context of most pancreatic cancers, fibroblasts are acting as both good players and bad players. It's a double-edged sword." Michael Downes, senior staff scientist and co-corresponding author on the paper

In the new research, the team probed the effect on fibroblasts of an experimental class of cancer drugs known as histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors. HDACs alter the three-dimensional structure of DNA inside cells, making some stretches of DNA easier or harder for other molecules to access and read. Targeting HDACs can therefore prevent cells from making large changes to their behavior, such as the out-of-control growth of cancer cells. But how the drugs work on all cell types is not well understood.

In experiments on isolated cells, the researchers discovered that HDAC inhibitors prevented fibroblasts from becoming activated and tumor supportive.

"Using HDAC inhibitors actually did two things-;it both turned down the growth signals from the fibroblasts to the cancer cells and it reduced the actual activation and accumulation of the fibroblasts," says Gaoyang Liang, first author and research associate in Evans' lab.

In mice, the researchers found that one experimental HDAC inhibitor, entinostat, both reduced the activation of fibroblasts around pancreatic tumors and slowed tumor growth. When the researchers analyzed data from humans with pancreatic cancer, they discovered something similar: the higher the levels of HDAC1 in the fibrotic tissue around a patient's tumor, the worse their outcome.

"This is in agreement with what we saw in cells and in mice," says Downes. "If you have more HDAC activities in the fibroblasts, you have a worse outcome. On the other hand, if you inhibit the HDACs, you have a better outcome."

Since HDAC inhibitors work by preventing cells from activating certain genetic programs, the researchers wanted to know which stretches of DNA impacted by the drugs were most relevant for fibroblast activation. They identified several genes that HDAC inhibitors prevent from being expressed-;suggesting that new drugs could target those genes to keep fibroblasts from becoming activated and promoting cancer growth and fibrosis.

"There have been some questions in the past about whether targeting fibroblasts is a good thing or a bad thing in pancreatic cancers, because people have shown that if you get rid of fibroblasts altogether it actually makes the cancers more aggressive," says Annette Atkins, co-author of the study and senior research scientist in Evans' lab. "But what our results suggest is that we don't have to get rid of them; just limiting their activation is beneficial."

More work is needed to pinpoint how to best deliver HDAC inhibitors to the dense fibrotic tissue around pancreatic tumors, as well as how they might be most effectively combined with other cancer treatments.

Other authors of the paper are Tae Gyu Oh, Nasun Hah, Yu Shi, Morgan L. Truitt, Corina E. Antal, Annette R. Atkins, Yuwenbin Li, Antonio F. M. Pinto, Dylan C. Nelson, Gabriela Estepa, Senada Bashi, Ester Banayo, Yang Dai, Ruth T. Yu, Tony Hunter, and Dannielle D. Engle of Salk; Herve Tiriac of UC San Diego; Cory Fraser of HonorHealth Scottsdale; Serina Ng, Haiyong Han, and Daniel D. Von Hoff of The Translational Genomic Research Institute; and Christopher Liddle of the University of Sydney.

The work was supported by grants from the Lustgarten Foundation (including award 552873), Don and Lorraine Freeberg Foundation, Ipsen Bioscience, a Stand Up To Cancer-Cancer Research UK-Lustgarten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Dream Team Research Grant (SU2C-AACR-DT-20-16), a Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (F32CA217033), a Life Sciences Research Foundation Fellowship, the Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation (DRG-2244-16), the National Institutes of Health (CA082683, 5T32CA009370), and the William Isacoff Research Foundation.
Thought Leaders Professor Michael Stryker School of Medicine UCSF

In this interview conducted at the Society for Neuroscience's Neuroscience 2023, we explore the fascinating world of neuroscience with Professor Michael Stryker, a leading expert with over four decades of groundbreaking research. From his early contributions to his current work at UCSF, Professor Stryker discusses his significant findings in brain development, the interplay of genetics and environment, and the nature of brain plasticity. His insights shed light on the complexities and adaptability of the human brain. Join us for a deep dive into neuroscience with one of its most prominent figures.

Your research has profoundly transformed our understanding of the visual system. Could you briefly explain how you came to do research in neuroscience and and what is the primary focus of your research and its significance?

I've been at UCSF for most of my academic career, for 46 years, except for a sabbatical year at Oxford and a quarter in Pisa. I started in mathematics, moved to philosophy, then neuroscience. My journey included cleaning rat cages, programming for a neuroscience lab, and eventually joining the Peace Corps. I spent time in East Africa, learned Swahili, and worked as a water development engineer. My interest in neuroscience drew me back, leading me to study at MIT and focus on the visual system. I worked on various aspects of neuroscience, from critical periods of plasticity to the role of neural activity in brain development, and currently focus on adult brain plasticity and its underlying mechanisms.

Your work demonstrated that orientation selectivity develops in the visual cortex even without visual experience. How did this finding challenge the existing views on the nature of sensory experience and brain development?

It challenged the notion that sensory experience was necessary for brain development. We showed that innate neural activity that precedes experience plays a crucial role in brain development.

You discovered that spontaneous retinal activity is critical for the normal development of the visual parts of the brain. Could you explain how this activity contributes to development and why it's so crucial?

It's critical for organizing connections in the visual system. The biochemical signals that organize connections can get them only approximately right because they diffuse over a region. Neural activity is specific to individual cells. Activity helps neurons that receive similar input to connect with single-cell precision, enhancing the specificity of brain wiring.

Your research has shown that inhibition plays a central role in regulating critical periods of plasticity in early life. How does this finding enhance our understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders?

The balance between excitation and inhibition in the brain is a crucial aspect of neurodevelopment. Our research and that of others suggest that disruptions in this balance could be a factor in various neurodevelopmental disorders. While our focus has been on inhibition, it's essential to understand that excitatory mechanisms also play a significant role. Disorders such as autism and schizophrenia might be linked to these imbalances, though more research is needed for a definitive understanding.

Image Credit: Ilya Lukichev/Shutterstock.com

Your work has influenced the nature-nurture debate by demonstrating common mechanisms in innate and experience-dependent development. How do you view this interplay between genetic programming and environmental experience in brain development?

Both genetic and environmental factors use overlapping mechanisms in brain development. The line between nature (genetics) and nurture (environmental experiences) is blurred by the fact that neural activity, which is influenced by both genes and experiences, affects gene expression, and gene expression affects neural activity. This interplay highlights the complexity of brain development, where both innate factors and experiences shape the outcome.

You and your colleagues have distinguished between juvenile plasticity and slower, qualitatively different adult plasticity. Can you elaborate on these differences and their implications for understanding brain development and adaptability?

Juvenile plasticity is more rapid and robust compared to adult plasticity, which tends to be slower and less pronounced. In adult brains, we see not a loss of plasticity but a change in its nature. For example, in response to sensory deprivation, adult brains don't lose responsiveness but instead show an increase in response to the non-deprived senses, indicating a homeostatic mechanism at play. While adult brains may require more effort to adapt, they still retain a degree of plasticity.

Receiving the Ralph W. Gerard Prize in Neuroscience is a significant achievement. What does this recognition mean to you, both personally and in terms of your scientific contributions?

Professionally, it's an honor, though I believe science is always forward-looking, while awards are a reflection of past achievements. Personally, it's gratifying to receive recognition from peers who understand the nuances of one's work. However, I view such recognition as the collective achievement of my lab and collaborators, not just a personal accomplishment.

How do you believe your work has influenced the wider field of neuroscience, and what do you hope will be its lasting impact?

My work has contributed to several key shifts in neuroscience. For example, the importance of spontaneous neural activity in brain development was initially met with skepticism but is now widely accepted. Also, my efforts in opening up new research areas, like the visual system of ferrets and alert mice studies, have paved the way for others to explore these fields further.

Looking towards the future, what do you see as the next major questions or challenges in the study of the visual system and brain plasticity?

The rapid advancement in technology is opening up incredible possibilities for neuroscience research. We can now explore complex neurological phenomena and diseases with sophisticated tools that were once only theoretical. This advancement allows researchers to focus more on the biology and mechanisms of diseases, potentially leading to breakthroughs in understanding and treating various neurological conditions.

Image Credit: Marcin Janiec/Shutterstock.com

Finally, as an esteemed figure in the field, what advice would you give to young scientists embarking on a career in neuroscience research, particularly in areas related to your expertise?

My primary advice would be to pursue research topics that you find genuinely important and interesting. The field of neuroscience is vast and still largely unexplored. Aspiring scientists should aim to tackle only the most significant problems and should strive to make a meaningful impact in their chosen area of study.

Where can readers find out more?

About Michael Stryker

Professor Michael Stryker is a renowned neuroscientist known for his extensive work in the field of brain visual systems. He earned his Ph.D. in neurophysiology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he co-developed the first computer-d riven optical display for studying neuron responses in the visual system. His groundbreaking research at MIT confirmed the innate selective responses in the visual cortex.

During his postdoctoral research at Harvard Medical School, he collaborated with eminent neuroscientists including Torsten Wiesel and David Hubel. At the University of California, San Francisco, Professor Stryker's lab made significant discoveries on the role of spontaneous neural activity in the development of the visual system and introduced the ferret as a key model for such studies.

His innovative work extended to the use of the mouse visual system, revealing critical insights into brain plasticity and the interaction between neural activity and molecular signaling. A pioneer in his field, Professor Stryker has authored over 150 publications, contributing profoundly to our understanding of the brain's visual processing capabilities.
Pharmaceutical products are produced to meet strict standards for effectiveness and quality. Every aspect of quality is assessed, taking into account the risks associated with the method of delivery (such as injection or ingestion) and the way they are manufactured (whether aseptic, terminally sterilized, or under less controlled conditions).

The document focuses on two aspects of this process: the quality of the manufacturing environment and the standards governing particle concentration limits that define a controlled environment.

The paper examines standards for physical testing (specifically EN ISO 14644-1:2015)1 and the regulatory guidelines (EU GMP Annex 1).2

ISO 14644-1

ISO 14644-1, which became active in 1999, established the room classification standards within the ISO 14644 suite. It determines how a room should be classified and sets the maximum allowable particle count in a specific volume of air.

It is important to note that while ISO 14644 is widely adopted for cleanroom classification globally, there are variations in routine monitoring, especially when comparing ISO 14644 to EU and WHO GMP standards. The cleanroom's certification status should be determined before testing, and ISO 14644-1 defines three certification states.

As-Built : This state represents a finished room with all services connected and operational, but it lacks production equipment or personnel.

: This state represents a finished room with all services connected and operational, but it lacks production equipment or personnel. At Rest : In this state, all services are connected, and all equipment is installed and functioning as agreed, but no personnel are present in the facility.

: In this state, all services are connected, and all equipment is installed and functioning as agreed, but no personnel are present in the facility. Operational: This state signifies that all equipment is installed and functioning according to the agreed format, and a specified number of personnel are present, following an agreed procedure.

The particle concentration limits for the cleanroom, exceeding a specified size, are outlined and provided in Table 1.

Table 1. Airborne particulate cleanliness classes for cleanroom and clean zones (as indicated in ISO 14644). Source: Particle Measuring Systems

ISO 14644-1:2015

Classification

Number (N) Maximum concentration limits (Particles/m3) 0.1 m 0.2 m 0.3 m 0.5 m 1.0 m 5.0 m ISO Class 1 10 ISO Class 2 100 24 10 ISO Class 3 1 000 237 102 35 ISO Class 4 10 000 2 370 1 020 352 83 ISO Class 5 100 000 23 700 10 200 3 520 832 ISO Class 6 1 000 000 237 000 102 000 35 200 8 320 298 ISO Class 7 352 000 83 200 2 930 ISO Class 8 3 520 000 832 000 29 300 ISO Class 9 35 200 000 8 320 000 293 000

These limits have been established in alignment with the standard using the following formula for the intermediate decimal classes:

Where,

C n is the maximum permitted concentration (particles per cubic meter) of airborne particles that are equal to and greater than the considered particle size.

is the maximum permitted concentration (particles per cubic meter) of airborne particles that are equal to and greater than the considered particle size. N is the ISO classification number, which shall not exceed a value of 9 or be less than 1.

D is the considered particle size, in micrometers, that is not listed in Table E-1.

K is a constant, 0.1, expressed in micrometers.

The connection between the particle size and its prevalence in a population is determined by the function . When plotting particle size against concentration on a logarithmic scale, each class exhibits a slope of 2.08, as indicated in the Table above.

Figure 1. V Graphical representation of iso class concentrations limits for selected classes. Image Credit: Particle Measuring Systems

To certify a cleanroom or clean zone, the designation should include the following components:

The room classification number is expressed as ISO Class N.

The state of occupancy.

The specific particle size is considered. It is also possible to certify a cleanroom for multiple sizes; in such cases, the sample volume requirement for the largest particle size is utilized.

Example

For instance, consider unidirectional airflow device X, which is classified as an ISO Class 5 clean zone at 0.5 m with (3520 n/m3) in the operational state.

To confirm the classification, the ISO 14644-1 standard outlines the necessary steps for compliance verification. Assuming a clean air device intended for use in an aseptic preparation area.

This area must meet the ISO Class 5 standard at 0.5 m, which is equivalent to 10,000 particles per cubic foot ( 10,000 /ft3) in the operational state.

The room is 12 m by 5 m (60 m2) and has a worktable in the center of the room.

Figure 2. Diagram showing the locations for classification within the clean zone. Image Credit: Particle Measuring Systems

Step 1: Calculate the maximum permitted particle concentration.

Figure 3. Maximum permitted particle concentration calculation. Image Credit: Particle Measuring Systems

C n 3520 n/m3 is the maximum permitted concentration N 5 is the ISO classification number D 0.5 m is the considered particle size, in micrometers K 0.1 m is a constant, 0.1, expressed in micrometers

Step 2: Determine the number of sample locations from the Table below.

Table 2. Number of sample locations required. Source: Particle Measuring Systems

Area of Zone (m2) ISO 14644-1:1999 ISO 14644-1:2015 2 2 1 4 2 2 6 3 3 8 3 4 10 4 5 24 5 6 28 6 7 32 6 8 36 6 9 52 8 10 56 8 11 64 8 12 68 9 13 72 9 14 76 9 15 104 11 16 108 11 17

Step 3: Calculate the sample volume.

According to ISO 14644-1:2015, the formula calculates a sample volume of 5.68 liters. Using a standard particle counter with a flow rate of 28.3 liters per minute, a 1-minute sample would exceed the minimum sample volume requirement. Therefore, to adhere to the specifications, a 1-minute sample at each of the 12 locations is required.

Step 4: Take measurements at each location (1 minute per sample) and record the results.

Table 3. Illustration of locations within the example clean zone and measurement results. Source: Particle Measuring Systems

LOCATION NUMBER /m3 1 708 2 885 3 1522 4 2336 5 3363 6 2584 7 2301 8 2089 9 1344 10 2013 11 1756 12 1897

Step 5: Define report.

This area satisfies the requirements for an ISO Class 5 clean zone at 0.5 m and is now ready for its intended use. The room classification should be periodically reevaluated as determined by ISO 14644-2.3

EU GMP Annex 1

The European Union GMP guidance for sterile manufacturing underwent a revision in 2003 to align with the shift from various cleanroom standards to a unified cleanroom standard, ISO 14644-1. This alignment is highlighted on the front page.

Annex 1 of the EC Guide to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) provides supplementary guidance on the application of the principles and guidelines of GMP to sterile medicinal products. The guidance includes recommendations on standards of environmental cleanliness for clean rooms. The guidance has been reviewed in the light of the international standard EN/ISO 14644-1 and amended in the interests of harmonization but taking into account specific concerns unique to the production of sterile medicinal products.

More specifically, the certification process for cleanrooms needed to adhere to the rules and format of ISO 14644-1 guidance. However, there were modifications in the ISO standard related to sterile medicinal products.

In response, a table of cleanroom certification values was established to align somewhat with ISO 14644-1. To ensure clarity, a series of notes accompanied this Table, though the initial Note 'a' caused some confusion.

The confusion was addressed in the 2008 release of EU GMP Annex 1, which clearly outlines three essential phases to be conducted.5

Each cleanroom and clean air device should first undergo classification. Subsequently, it should be regularly monitored to confirm the maintenance of conditions concerning product quality. The data collected from this monitoring should be reviewed in light of the risk to the quality of the finished product.

Table 4. EU GMP Annex 1:2008 room classification table. Source: Particle Measuring Systems

EU GMP Grade At Rest In Operation Maximum number of particles permitted/m3 equal to or greater than the tabulated size 0.5 m 5.0 m 0.5 m 5.0 m A 3520 20 3520 20 B 3520 29 352,000 2900 C 352,000 2,900 3,520,000 29,000 D 3,520,000 29,000 Not Defined Not Defined

It is important to note that the limits in the EU GMP table slightly differ from those in the ISO 14644 standard.

To complete the necessary certification, it is crucial to understand the principles of ISO 14644-1, the certification of cleanrooms according to that standard, the rules regarding the number of sample points, sample point locations, sample volume at each location, and the statistical analysis of cleanroom data that must be followed.

However, instead of using the classification limits provided in ISO 14644-1, it is recommended to use the Table displayed above, as specified in the revised guidance document.

The GMP also defines other expectations, such as a sample volume of 1 m3 per sample location for Grade A or the use of minimum sample tubing length due to the high precipitation of 5.0 m particles in transport tubing (ideally, no sample tubing should be used).

Additionally, the recertification of cleanrooms should adhere to the guidelines in ISO 14644-2, with annual recertification for ISO Grade 6 and higher and semi-annual recertification for ISO Grade 5.

Exceptions are made for extending the recertification period for ISO Grade 5 areas if a continuous monitoring system has been implemented. Suitable times for certification include media fills or simulated filling runs.

Acknowledgments

Produced from materials originally authored by Mark Hallworth from Particle Measuring Systems.

References

International Standards Organization. Cleanrooms and associated controlled environments  Part 1: Classification of air cleanliness by particle concentration, ISO Standard No. 14644-1:2015 (2015). European Commission. The Rules Governing Medicinal Products in the European Union Volume 4 EU Guidelines for Good Manufacturing Practice for Medicinal Products for Human and Veterinary Use: Annex 1, Manufacture of Sterile Medicinal Products, Annex 1 (2022). International Standards Organization. Cleanrooms and associated controlled environments  Part 2: Monitoring to provide evidence of cleanroom performance related to air cleanliness by particle concentration, ISO Standard No. 14644-2:2015 (2015). European Commission. EC Guide to Good Manufacturing Practice Revision to Annex 1: Manufacture of Sterile Medicinal Products, Annex 1 (2003). European Commission, EudraLex. The Rules Governing Medicinal Products in the European Union Volume 4 EU Guidelines for Good Manufacturing Practice for Medicinal Products for Hum

About Particle Measuring Systems

Particle Measuring Systems has 35 years experience designing, manufacturing, and servicing microcontamination monitoring instrumentation and software used for detecting particles in air, liquid, and gas stream as well as molecular contamination monitoring.

Specific applications include cleanroom monitoring, parenteral sampling, filter and in-line testing in deionized water and process chemicals, and point-of-use monitoring of inert gases and in-situ particle monitoring. Specialty monitoring includes parts cleanliness testing with a highly automated solution.

Particle measuring systems

Whether you want to protect product or meet industry requirements, such as ISO 14644, USP 797, or GMP, Particle Measuring Systems has a large variety of particle counters and molecular monitors to meet your needs. With 35 years experience, we have the proven reliability to support your application.

Particle counters

Protect your product with our reliable particle counters. We have airborne, portable, and liquid particle counters for a wide variety of applications including DI water, chemicals, and cleanroom monitoring. Compare particle counters or learn how to monitor your cleanroom or product by reading our papers.

Molecular contamination monitors

Molecular contamination creates costly problems to high value products, production processes, and equipment surfaces. We have solutions for both Airborne Molecular contamination (AMC) and Surface Molecular contamination (SMC). With parts-per-trillion limits of detection, real-time sampling, NIST traceable calibrations, and various data analysis packages, you can monitor in confidence.

Gas detectors

If you need gas detectors for process control or continuous emissions monitoring, we can help. Get real-time, reliable results with our ammonia, hydrogen fluoride, and chlorine detectors for worker protections, CEMs, and pollution monitoring.

Sponsored Content Policy: News-Medical.net publishes articles and related content that may be derived from sources where we have existing commercial relationships, provided such content adds value to the core editorial ethos of News-Medical.Net which is to educate and inform site visitors interested in medical research, science, medical devices and treatments.
Approximately 5.2% of the global population possesses abnormalities in hemoglobin, leading to the annual birth of 300,000 to 400,000 children with severe hemoglobinopathies.

Image Credit: cones/Shutterstock.com

Thalassemia, an inherited hemoglobinopathy, occurs in 4.4 out of every 10,000 live births and is notably prevalent in Mediterranean coastal areas, Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and southern China.

Thalassemia is often classified as -thalassemia or -thalassemia depending on whether the anomaly results from the synthesis of alpha () chains or beta () chains making up the protein.

Treatments for moderate to severe thalassemia include frequent blood transfusions, chelation therapy to remove excess iron from the blood, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), which can be quite expensive and can have a major impact on patients, their families, and the healthcare system.

The implementation of screening and antenatal diagnosis has effectively lowered the incidence of -thalassemia in various Mediterranean countries.

Turning attention to regions with high thalassemia prevalence, BGI Genomics initiated a global survey to raise awareness about thalassemia. The aim of the survey was to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes regarding associated health risks, thalassemia carrier screening, and genetic counseling for carriers.

By examining these critical areas, the survey sought to underscore existing obstacles and potential avenues for improvement.

Covering 1,847 women across Azerbaijan, China, Indonesia, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand, the surveys findings highlight the pressing need to enhance awareness, address barriers, and improve access to screening.

Most people do not know much about thalassemia: 70.5% of women lacked substantial knowledge about the symptoms and health risks linked to thalassemia, and an additional 14.4% mentioned they had never heard of thalassemia. The percentage of women with limited awareness regarding thalassemia remained relatively consistent across different age groups and marital statuses.

70.5% of women lacked substantial knowledge about the symptoms and health risks linked to thalassemia, and an additional 14.4% mentioned they had never heard of thalassemia. The percentage of women with limited awareness regarding thalassemia remained relatively consistent across different age groups and marital statuses. Greater willingness to undergo thalassemia screening with more information: Upon understanding the health risks and substantial lifetime treatment expenses linked to thalassemia, a notable 84.5% of women express increased willingness to undergo various forms of thalassemia screening, including premarital, pre-pregnancy, and prenatal tests. Improved awareness about thalassemia is likely to foster more positive shifts in attitudes toward screening tests, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes.

Upon understanding the health risks and substantial lifetime treatment expenses linked to thalassemia, a notable 84.5% of women express increased willingness to undergo various forms of thalassemia screening, including premarital, pre-pregnancy, and prenatal tests. Improved awareness about thalassemia is likely to foster more positive shifts in attitudes toward screening tests, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes. Accessibility matters: The primary factors influencing the inclination to undergo thalassemia screening include the availability of screening services in nearby hospitals or agencies (43.1%), the cost associated with screening services (38.1%), and the consideration of screening before marriage or starting a family (35.3%).

The primary factors influencing the inclination to undergo thalassemia screening include the availability of screening services in nearby hospitals or agencies (43.1%), the cost associated with screening services (38.1%), and the consideration of screening before marriage or starting a family (35.3%). Thalassemia carriers are more open to genetic counseling: If both partners are thalassemia carriers, a significant 50.8% of women can successfully encourage their partners to pursue genetic counseling and contemplate preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), thereby increasing the chances of having a thalassemia-free child. In instances where women have acquired information about thalassemia through health awareness programs, this percentage increased to 59.5%. Consequently, health awareness programs emerge as pivotal influencers in promoting genetic counseling and PGD.

Dr. Zhiyu Peng, BGI Genomics Deputy GM, notes: This survey shows that enhancing awareness and accessibility is an important first step in thalassemia control programs. Regionspecific screening and treatment programs, customized to align with local healthcare resources and cultural values, are also vital to identify thalassemia patients and carriers. Such customization will facilitate the provision of information and care to obtain better health outcomes while reducing costs for their families and the healthcare system.

Dr. Androulla Eleftheriou, Thalassemia International Federation Executive Director, comments: Enhancing awareness is a crucial first step in promoting individual behavior changes and policy reforms, ultimately leading to improved prevention, control, and management of thalassemia. Screening services  a key component of any effective national control program  need to consider cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. We welcome BGI Genomics efforts and reaffirm our commitment to further expanding thalassemia awareness on a global scale.

Thalassemia awareness

Around 80% of thalassemia cases are observed in low- or middle-income countries, where an uneven distribution of medical resources increases the potential threat to patients quality of life. Thalassemia control programs necessitate a focus on public awareness, screening, genetic counseling, and prenatal diagnosis.

This survey aims to gauge womens awareness regarding thalassemia symptoms, associated health risks, and screening tests.

What is the level of thalassemia awareness worldwide?

Even though this survey was conducted in regions with high thalassemia prevalence, a substantial 70.5% of individuals worldwide lack significant knowledge about thalassemia symptoms and the associated health risks. Additionally, 14.4% indicate they have never come across information about thalassemia.

Kuwait (77.4%) and Azerbaijan (75.2%) exhibit the highest levels of limited awareness regarding thalassemia. The proportion of women with limited knowledge about thalassemia remains relatively consistent across different age groups and marital statuses.

Image Credit: BGI Genomics

Globally, 51.7% are aware of blood transfusion treatment for thalassemia patients, and 36.5% are familiar with chelation therapy to remove excess iron from the blood. Kuwait (66.7%) and Indonesia (54.1%) lead in the percentage of individuals aware of blood transfusion treatment.

Among women who are thalassemia patients, carriers, or have a family history of thalassemia, 57.9% are informed about chelation therapy, surpassing the global average.

Image Credit: BGI Genomics

What do women know about thalassemia carrier screening?

38.0% of women express uncertainty or lack of awareness about thalassemia carrier screening globally. Azerbaijan (60.2%) and Saudi Arabia (53.5%) demonstrate the highest percentages in this category.

Kuwait stands out for having the highest awareness of thalassemia carrier screening, with only 17.2% stating they are uninformed or unsure while recognizing routine blood tests, hemoglobin electrophoresis, and genetic testing as available options.

Image Credit: BGI Genomics

44.6% worldwide are aware that hereditary genetic mutations cause thalassemia. Thailand (67.8%) displays the highest level of awareness about hereditary genetic mutations, whereas Indonesia (21.2%) records the lowest level of comprehension.

When it comes to acquiring thalassemia-related information, women globally cite websites (45.1%) and health awareness programs (43.2%) as the top channels. China (58.3%) and Kuwait (56.4%) exhibit the highest percentages, with health awareness programs being a primary source of information.

Image Credit: BGI Genomics

What is holding women back from thalassemia carrier screening?

A significant 86.0% of the global population has not undergone a thalassemia screening test. Azerbaijan (96.4%) and Indonesia (95.4%) show the highest percentages of individuals who have not taken the test, while Kuwait (61.5%) exhibits the lowest rate.

Image Credit: BGI Genomics

Accessibility to thalassemia tests is important. The primary factors influencing the willingness to undergo thalassemia screening include the availability of screening services in nearby hospitals or agencies (43.1%), the cost associated with screening services (38.1%), and the consideration of screening before marriage or starting a family (35.3%).

Nearby hospitals or agencies are most influential in China (60.7%) and Kuwait (54.2%), while the notion of screening before getting married or having children is highest in Azerbaijan (44.0%) and China (39.6%).

Image Credit: BGI Genomics

Changing attitudes with awareness

Over the past two decades, the experience and knowledge, notably in Southern Mediterranean countries, have resulted in the development of guidelines for the management and control of thalassemia. These guidelines were initially published by the WHO and subsequently by the Thalassemia International Federation (TIF).

Increased awareness empowers individuals to make more informed decisions regarding thalassemia screening, including premarital, pre-pregnancy, and prenatal tests, as well as making choices related to genetic counseling and preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD).

How does awareness shape attitudes towards screening?

Upon understanding the health risks and the considerable lifetime treatment costs linked to thalassemia, 84.5% of women express increased willingness to undergo various forms of thalassemia screening, encompassing premarital, pre-pregnancy, and prenatal tests.

Kuwait (94.1%) and Thailand (91.2%) have the highest percentages of individuals expressing increased willingness to undergo some form of thalassemia screening.

Image Credit: BGI Genomics

With heightened awareness, the premarital thalassemia screening test emerges as the most favored option, selected by 44.0% of individuals. Indonesia (49.0%) and Thailand (48.2%) lead in the preference for premarital screening tests.

Pre-pregnancy and prenatal thalassemia tests are chosen by 15.3% and 5.5%, respectively. Kuwait (11.8%) and China (6.2%) exhibit the highest percentages of individuals opting for prenatal thalassemia tests.

Are thalassemia carriers more willing to go for genetic counseling?

When two individuals carrying the same form of thalassemia trait have a child, there is a one in four (25%) chance that the child will be born with a severe form of thalassemia.

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is an established procedure that enables couples to test for specific genetic conditions, such as thalassemia, in the early embryo. This occurs before the selection of embryos for transfer to the uterus to establish a pregnancy.

If both partners are thalassemia carriers, 50.9% of women can successfully encourage their partners to seek genetic counseling and contemplate PGD.

If women have acquired information about thalassemia through health awareness programs, this percentage increases to 59.5%. Consequently, health awareness programs emerge as pivotal influencers in promoting genetic counseling and PGD.

Image Credit: BGI Genomics

Thailand (72.5%) and Indonesia (58.9%) exhibit the highest percentages of women, indicating that genetic counseling and PGD are options they will consider. These options enhance the likelihood of giving birth to a child free from thalassemia.

22.1% of women, however, are unaware of genetic counseling or PGD and are unable to evaluate these options. China (28.7%) and Kuwait (25.6%) record the highest percentages of individuals unaware of these options.

Methodology

The survey conducted in October 2023 involved 1,847 female respondents from Azerbaijan (306), China (308), Indonesia (307), Kuwait (315), Saudi Arabia (306), and Thailand (305).

Respondents were located in their respective countries or regions during the survey period. Momentive Global conducted surveys in local languages. Respondents were aged between 21 to 49 years old.

About BGI Genomics

BGI Genomics is the world's leading integrated solutions provider of precision medicine, now serving customers in more than 100 countries.

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In a major development, the Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Secretary DS Mishra, has given the green signal for a game-changing Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor.

This ambitious 72km corridor, with an estimated cost of Rs 1,600 crore, will seamlessly connect Ghaziabads 17km priority section to the upcoming Noida International Airport in Jewar.

During a high-profile meeting chaired by Chief Secretary DS Mishra on Monday, the project received official approval, marking a significant step towards enhancing connectivity in the National Capital Region (NCR). The state government has entrusted the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) with the responsibility of crafting a detailed project report (DPR) within the next two months.

New RRTS Route: List of Stops

The newly approved RRTS route, spanning 72km, will extend from Ghaziabad station to Jewars Noida airport, passing through key areas like Greater Noida West, Surajpur, and Ecotech Pari Chowk. This transformative corridor is set to link Noida airport with prominent NCR towns, including Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Meerut, and Delhi.

Funding Breakdown and Project Dynamics

Officials revealed that the Uttar Pradesh government is committed to contributing 50 percent of the projects funds, with an additional 20 percent allocated from the Central government. The remaining 30 percent will be shared by the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (Yeida) and the Greater Noida Authority, showcasing a collaborative effort to propel this mega project forward.

Ghaziabad-Jewar Route Takes the Lead

During a pivotal meeting, Mishra steered focus towards the Ghaziabad-Jewar via Greater Noida West route. An undisclosed official confirmed the dismissal of alternative routes, solidifying the approval for this corridor. With expectations set for an operational debut by 2030, pending seamless execution, this decision marks a monumental leap in regional connectivity.

Delhi-Meerut RRTS Priority Section Now Operational

Meanwhile, the Delhi-Meerut RRTS achieved a significant milestone with the operational launch of its 17km priority section. Commencing service in October, this segment encompassing five stationsSahibabad, Ghaziabad, Guldhar, Duhai, and Duhai Depotsignals the inception of an expansive 82km corridor uniting Delhi, Ghaziabad, and Meerut, slated for completion by 2025.
Infrastructure progress is accelerating in the country, with a focus on highway and expressway construction. Led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the central government is actively connecting major cities to streamline nationwide travel. A significant expressway project linking Punjab and Gujarat is currently underway. It is expected to minimise travel time between the two states by half highlighting the governments commitment towards better transportation connectivity.

The National Highway Authority (NHAI) reports the construction of a nearly completed 1,316 km expressway connecting Amritsar in Punjab to Jamnagar in Gujarat, known as the Amritsar Jamnagar Expressway. Crossing the desert and sandy areas of Haryana, this expressway is anticipated to offer substantial benefits to both the general public and the transportation of goods and businesses.

A substantial segment of the Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway, spanning approximately 500 kilometres in Rajasthan, is now operational. Extending from Jhakhrawali village in Hanumangarh district to Khetlawas in Jalore, the construction cost of this section amounted to Rs 11,125 crore. The opening of this green corridor is anticipated to streamline travel between major cities in Rajasthan and Haryana-Punjab.

The current distance between Amritsar and Jamnagar is 1,516 kilometres, a length expected to be reduced by 216 kilometres upon the completion of the expressway. Presently, the journey duration spans approximately 26 hours, a timeframe predicted to halve to 13 hours with the expressways construction. The high-speed corridor is all set to accommodate vans at a speed of 100 km per hour.

The Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway is said to benefit Punjab, Delhi, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Gujarat. Additionally, it will be linked to the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, facilitating easier travel to Delhi and Kashmir. This connectivity will streamline road travel from Gujarat to Kashmir.

Besides this, the Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway is anticipated to bring notable benefits to several cities, including Amritsar, Bathinda, Moga, Hanumangarh, Suratgarh, Bikaner, Nagaur, Jodhpur, Barmer, and Jamnagar. The expressways infrastructure development encompasses the creation of 5 railway overbridges, 20 river overbridges, 26 interchanges, 55 underpasses, and 311 small underpasses. Alongside, the installation of car charging stations at intervals of 20 to 30 kilometres along the route is set to enhance both convenience and sustainability.
It would be a fascinating process even if it wasnt intended to help clean the Niagara River. Three pregnant native freshwater mussels  named Elizabeth, Imogene and Nelly  have taken up residence in a University at Buffalo biological sciences lab. They are waiting for a complicated birth process that will lead to more mussels and, thus, more hope for a cleaner, healthier river.

In terms of Western New York waterway health, the word mussel has had negative connotations for decades. It may be time to think differently. University at Buffalo researchers are trying a strategy intended to help save an endangered species  the freshwater mussel, not to be confused with the invasive zebra or quagga  as well as our polluted waterways.

Buffalo owes these scientists and UB a large vote of thanks for their innovation in using small aquatic creatures to attack problems created by human activity over decades. It is key that local governments act in support by aggressively pursuing their ongoing waterway mitigation efforts.

The three-year research project is led by UB assistant professors Isabel Porto-Hannes and Corey Krabbenhoft, who have received a $500,000 grant from the New York Power Authority for their pilot study, which explores how these freshwater mussels might be able to help clean even the badly polluted Scajaquada Creek by consuming contaminants like E. coli bacteria.

The animals have shown they can absorb this polluter, which would be a real boon, given that sewer overflows caused by stormwater runoff are the main reason Scajaquada is in the state it is. The animals can also filter nitrogen, which, when present in large quantities from waste or agricultural runoff, is the cause of algal blooms.

Freshwater mussels siphon water  as much as a bathtubs worth every day  through their gills to feed, acting as living water purifiers. Their presence is vital to the health of freshwater ecosystems. More than 300 species live in North America alone, and individuals from some of them can survive for more than 100 years. Mussels have been called the livers of rivers, not just for their filtration capabilities but because they also deposit nutrients on the river bottom, and their burrowing activity mixes and aerates the sediment.

Over the years, though, despite this seeming abundance and longevity, the population of these creatures has declined, due to a variety of factors, including the previous use of their shells for buttons; the damming of rivers, which reduces their mobility; and the attacks of parasitic zebra mussels. In addition, freshwater mussels have a unique reproductive process in which their larvae  tens of thousands of them per mussel  attach harmlessly to host fish and then detach when they are ready to live independently. Unfortunately, some of these host fish are becoming harder to find.

Finally, even mussels, with their ability to filter pollution, can only take so much and some waterways have become simply too befouled to support them. Hopefully, this is not the case with the Niagara River, which has already undergone extensive remediation.

After Elizabeth, Imogene and Nelly have released their offspring and the larvae have dropped off the largemouth bass provided for their maturation period, they will be moved into silos at four restored areas of the Niagara River, where their potential for filtration will be assessed. Projects like this are happening all over the U.S., including at the Chesapeake Bay watershed, so there is good reason to hope that both freshwater mussel population renewal and cleaner waterways will result.

In the meantime, Western New Yorkers can root for the return of the good-guy mussels and draw inspiration from the young scientists who are bringing them back.

Whats your opinion? Send it to us at lettertoeditor@buffnews.com. Letters should be a maximum of 300 words and must convey an opinion. The column does not print poetry, announcements of community events or thank you letters. A writer or household may appear only once every 30 days. All letters are subject to fact-checking and editing.
About a month-and-a-half ago, Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy advised the youth to work for 70 hours a week. It raised a debate and Narayan Murthy came under the crosshairs of many who deemed it as unreasonable and unfair. Murthy has now expanded the reach of his 70-hour work week advice beyond the employment sector in India, finding mention in Indian governance as well. On the first day of the Winter session of Parliament, three members of the Lok Sabha questioned the Narendra Modi government about whether it was considering the proposal posed by Narayan Murthy.

The YSR Congress Partys Kanumuru Raghu Rama Krishna Raju, Congress MP Komati Venkata Reddy, and Manne Srinivas Reddy of Bharat Rashtra Samithi asked the Ministry of Labour and Employment in an unstarred question, Will the Minister of Labour and Employment be pleased to state: Whether the Government is evaluating the 70-hour work proposal made by Infosys co-founder? according to a Hindustan Times report.

According to the Centre, there has been no proposal under consideration for the concept of working seventy hours a week. Responding to a question from three opposition MPs, Rameswar Teli, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, stated, The Government of India is not considering any proposal of that kind.

77-year-old Narayana Murthy, previously, advised the young people to put in 70 hours a week of work to boost Indias total production. He made this statement in a podcast interview with Mohandas Pai, the former CEO of Infosys. He stated that India aspires to compete with nations like China, despite having some of the lowest productivity levels in the world.

Murthy asserts that India must exert extra effort just like Japan and Germany did after the Second World War. Regarding this suggestion of Narayana Murthy, common people and intellectuals were divided into two factions on the internet. A section of people agreed with him. Ola founder Bhavish Aggarwal agreed with Murthys statement while Congress MP Shashi Tharoor was a sharp critic of the statement.
A recent survey conducted by SBNRI, the NRI-centric fintech platform, revealed the top Indian cities preferred by returning NRIs for either business or investments. The report delved into the factors shaping NRIs decisions when selecting these destinations, delivering a concrete picture of returning NRIs mindset.

Also Read: India Gains Popularity As Retirement Haven For NRIs From Australia, Canada, USA: Report

The report said witnessing Indias tremendous economic progress, the country has become the leading destination for NRIs attracting a significant influx of NRI-led investments or business setups. Given the abundance of investment alternatives from mutual funds, and bonds to real estate, the country has myriad options that are bound to tantalise every NRIs financial palette.

Key findings of the report;

The SBNRI report, which surveyed around 500 NRIs, revealed that 23% of overall returning NRIs prefer Mumbai, with 18% NRIs from the US followed by 14% NRIs from Canada along with 11% from both Singapore and other countries as the top choice for business or investments.

On the other hand, only 4% of Canada and Singapore-based returning NRIs prefer Bengaluru, whereas 9% of returning NRIs from other countries choose Bengaluru as the top choice. Similarly, while Delhi, the capital of the country, is preferred by only 3% and 2% of NRIs from Canada and Singapore respectively, it is certainly a leading choice for 7% returning NRIs from other nations for investments and business.

Mudit Vijayvergiya, founder, SBNRI said, India is poised to become the global economic powerhouse driven by the unprecedented development and growth occurring in every ascent of the industrial landscape, making it the leading hotspot for returning NRIs, who equally want to leverage the unique opportunities that the country has to offer. From growing business to investment networks, along with employment opportunities, infrastructure progress and rampant urbanisation, the country offers all to NRIs.

The report added that these opportunities arent merely limited to Tier 1 cities, but with government initiatives development opportunities have also opened their doors in Tier 2 and 3 cities and as per SBNRIs report 12% and 16% of returning NRIs from the USA and other countries want to set up either business or investment in Tier 2 and 3 towns.

Despite the progression in Tier 2 and 3, 13% of Canada-based NRIs and 7% of Australia returning NRIs opt to set up their business or investment in Tier 1 cities with merely 5% from both countries respectively wanting to choose Tier 2 and 3 cities.

The survey also explored that 10% of NRIs from Canada followed by 4% from Singapore and 3% from other countries search for robust infrastructure before setting up business or investment. While 10% and 4% of NRIs from Canada and Singapore search for good infrastructure, the number significantly reduced with only 2% from both countries searching for employment opportunities before making destination decisions.

On the contrary, 8% and 9% of NRIs from other nations look for employment and government and political stability respectively before setting up a business or investment.

Why Do NRIs Invest In India?

Delving into the lucrative offerings that attract NRIs for setting up business or investment in India, the report revealed  12% of Canadian NRIs and 9% of NRIs from the UK and other nations are attracted by the higher return on investment in India. On the other hand, 14% of NRIs from other countries are attracted by Indias growth opportunities, whereas, 9% from Canada and 7% from the UK are attracted by the same.

Furthermore, 8%, 6% and 3% NRIs from other countries, Canada and the UK respectively are attracted by the ease of setting up business in India.

The SBNRI survey report also disclosed that 16%, 14% and 12% NRIs from other nations, Canada and Singapore respectively are looking forward to investing or setting up business in the healthcare sector.

While IT services remain a prospective option for 8% and 6% of NRIs from other countries and Canada respectively, only 4% Singapore-based NRIs want to pursue in the same sector. At the bottom of the chart lies the tourism and transportation sector, with only 3% NRIs planning to invest or set up a business in the particular segment.
Stocks To Watch on December 6: Nifty futures at GIFT Nifty were trading 0.12% higher at 21,025 around 7.05 am, indicating a positive start for the stock markets on Wednesday. Here are the top stocks that are likely to be in focus today:

HDFC Bank: The private sector lender has sought approval from shareholders for re-appointment of Sashidhar Jagdishan as managing director and chief executive officer of the bank and the appointment of V Srinivasa Rangan as executive director of the bank

Infosys: Infosys said it has received a communication for collection of penalty from an overseas authority.

State Bank of India: Indias largest lender, State Bank of India, is acquiring 20% stake in SBI Pension Funds for Rs 229.5 crore. The stake is held by SBI Capital. With this transaction, the lenders stake in SBI Pension Funds will hit 80%.

Bharti Airtel: Has received an order for penalty of Rs 3.95 lakh under the CGST Act. The company said it does not agree with the order and will take appropriate action.

Bank of India: The public sector lender has launched a qualified institutional placement (QIP) at floor price of 105.42 rupees apiece, it said in a regulatory filing on Monday. It is reportedly looking to raise up to Rs 4,500 crore.

Canara Bank: The public sector will likely issue AT-1 bonds in December to raise up to Rs 2,000 crore to Rs 3,000 crore. The issue is likely to have a call option at end of five years. Canara Bank last raised Rs 2,000 crore in September 2022 through AT-1 bonds at 7.99% coupon.

Honasa Consumer: Fireside Ventures Investment Fund I has offloaded Rs 230.15 crore worth of shares in Honasa Consumer, the parent company of the beauty and personal care products brand Mamaearth. About 60.88 lakh shares were sold at an average price of Rs 378 apiece.

Ashok Leyland: Has raised its stake in Switch Mobilitys holding company to 92.19% from 91.63%. It had deployed around Rs 662.5 crore as the first tranche of a planned 1,200 crore investment.

Somany Ceramics: Has fixed 15 December as the record date for its Rs 125 crore share buyback at Rs 850 apiece.

Power Grid Corp: Has emerged as the successful bidder to set up an inter-state transmission system project in Gujarat. The project comprises setting up a new 765/400kV switching station at Vataman in Ahmedabad, three 765kV D/C transmission lines, as well as extension works at Navsari and Halvad substations.

Eicher Motors: Royal Enfield, part of Eicher Motors, on Tuesday said it has ventured into the pre-owned bike segment. Royal Enfield has introduced Reown, a new company-operated, pre-owned motorcycle business venture, that allows existing and prospective customers to buy or sell their Royal Enfield motorcycles, and exchange their motorcycles and upgrade to a new bike with ease.
Delhi Public School in Jammu was targeted with a bomb threat today, causing widespread chaos on its premises. The threat was communicated via a phone call to a DPS teacher, who promptly reported the incident to the police.

Upon receiving the information, a police team swiftly arrived at Delhi Public School, situated on Residency Road in Jammu. The law enforcement response included multiple contingents of security forces and a bomb disposal squad arriving at the school.

A security officer at the scene explained that the teacher had alerted the school administration about the threatening call, leading to the involvement of the Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS). A comprehensive search operation is currently underway within the educational institution. However, no explosive device or any suspicious or objectionable material has been discovered thus far.

Meanwhile, an email suggesting that there were explosive devices on the school grounds was sent out on December 1, to over sixty schools in Bengaluru city. School administrators contacted the police, who dispatched teams of sniffer dogs and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad to the schools that received the bomb threat. Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda claimed that, at first glance, it appeared to be a hoax email. Nonetheless, police forces swarmed the city to inspect and safeguard every school named.
Telanganas chief minister-elect Revanth Reddy met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge here on Wednesday, a day after he was elected leader of the Congress Legislature Party.

Reddy also met Congress Telangana in charge, Manikrao Thakare at Maharashtra Sadan, in Delhi.
Shivraj Singh Chouhan has stayed put in Bhopal since the big win for the BJP in Madhya Pradesh, choosing not to come to Delhi, unlike his counterparts who see themselves as contenders for the chief ministers chair and have paid visits to the top BJP leadership here.

On Wednesday, Chouhan is heading for Chhindwara, Kamal Naths stronghold, where the BJP lost all seven seats in the district like in 2018. The message from Chouhan with this move is that he is already in the gear for 2024  wanting to snatch away the Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat from Kamal Naths family which is the only seat in the state that Congress won in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. Chouhan has said he wants to put a garland around Prime Minister Narendra Modi of all the 29 Lok Sabha in MP. Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat has been the bastion of Nath since 1980.

What has caught more attention is Chouhans statement on Tuesday that I was never a contender for the CM chair nor I am one today and that he will do whatever job is given as he is a BJP worker. This, in BJP circles, is seen as a key message from Chouhan. In another statement, he said Ladli Behana scheme money would be sent on December 10 and the money would be slowly increased from Rs 1,250 p.m. to Rs 3,000. In all his statements so far, Chouhan has thanked the ladli behanas for giving him an unprecedented victory.

Ladli Behana sole factor?

While Chouhan has been crediting his scheme and the prime ministers magic behind the win that has seen the BJP achieve its highest-ever vote share in an assembly election in Madhya Pradesh at 48.55 per cent, some of the CM contenders have tried to play down the Ladli Behana effect.

Union Minister and now MLA from Narsinghpur, Prahlad Patel, has said the win is all due to PM Modis appeal and popularity. Senior BJP leader and MLA from Indore, Kailash Vijayvargiya, said Ladli Behana was not the sole factor as the BJP secured big wins in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh where no such scheme existed. This is being seen as an effort to downplay Chouhans case.

However, those in the Chouhan camp say it would be difficult for the party to ignore his case after the BJP has won 163 seats. The other contenders like Prahlad Patel, Kailash Vijavargiya and Jyotiraditya Scindia have met the party leadership in Delhi after the win. Still, the party has termed them as courtesy visits since MPs and Union ministers are in Delhi for the Parliament session. However, Chouhan not visiting Delhi has raised some eyebrows in the BJP.
Pranab Mukherjee, the late President and a veteran Congress leader, felt that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the only PM after Indira Gandhi who has the ability to feel the pulse of the people so acutely and accurately", according to his daughter Sharmistha.

ALSO READ | Has Arrogance of Gandhi-Nehru Lineage Without. Book Reveals Pranab Mukherjees Views on RaGa

Sharmistha, who has put together her interactions with her father and his diary entries in a book, Pranab, My Father: A Daughter Remembers, mentions Mukherjees diary entry dated October 23, 2014. PMs decision to spend Diwali with jawans at Siachen and flood-affected people at Srinagar speaks of his political sense which was not visible in any other PM, except Indira Gandhi."

NOT MR. KNOW ALL, MODI WANTS TO LEARN

The book illustrates Mukherjees good equation with PM Modi, mentioning the many addas" he had with him.

Another diary entry states: We had discussions on various issues. He told me that he valued my advice and I told him he will get my full cooperation. It is quite clear that 

He has clarity in his thought and has a professional approach to statecraft He feels the pulse of the people very strongly He wants learn and does not pretend that he is Mr. Know All As a hardcore RSS man, he is fiercely patriotic and nationalist."

MUKHERJEE & THE GANDHIS

Mukherjee had the experience of working with many prime ministers and several generations of the Gandhi family  from Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi to Sonia Gandhi and finally Rahul Gandhi. Mukherjee served as Indias finance minister and subsequently became minister for External Affairs, Defence, Finance and Commerce. He was Indias 13th president (2012 to 2017). He died on August 31, 2020 at the age of 84.

In a long condolence thread on X for Mukherjee, PM Modi wrote: I was new to Delhi in 2014. From Day 1, I was blessed to have the guidance, support and blessings of Shri Pranab Mukherjee. I will always cherish my interactions with him. Condolences to his family, friends, admirers and supporters across India. Om Shanti."

India grieves the passing away of Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee. He has left an indelible mark on the development trajectory of our nation. A scholar par excellence, a towering statesman, he was admired across the political spectrum and by all sections of society. pic.twitter.com/gz6rwQbxi6 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 31, 2020

The book makes it clear that he had an uneasy relation with Rajiv Gandhi. It also explains that the Congress veteran was not impressed with the political side of Rahul Gandhi. Mukherjee described him as courteous and full of questions but not yet politically mature". He also thought that Rahul Gandhis tearing of the ordinance publicly while Dr Manmohan Singh was abroad was the final nail in the coffin of the UPA".

In his diary, Mukherjee wrote: He has all the arrogance of his Gandhi-Nehru lineage without their political acumen."

According to Mukherjee, this was also one reason why UPA lost in 2014. He asked why anyone would vote for a government where the prime minister was not respected.

I was new to Delhi in 2014. From Day 1, I was blessed to have the guidance, support and blessings of Shri Pranab Mukherjee. I will always cherish my interactions with him. Condolences to his family, friends, admirers and supporters across India. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/cz9eqd4sDZ Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 31, 2020

ON SONIAs SACRIFICE

As the president of the single largest party Congress to win the Lok Sabha elections in 2004, Sonia Gandhi was tipped to be the prime minister and had the full support of the coalition partners. But she renounced her claim to be the prime minister  a decision that took the nation, including her own party colleagues and coalition partners, by surprise.

Sharmistha mentions that though at that time, her father didnt write anything more, on December 31, while recounting major events of the year, he wrote, Most surprising was the amazing sacrifice of Sonia Gandhi by refusing to accept the Prime Ministership of the country despite pressure from within the party and outside. Her decision saved the country from a bitter confrontation between BJP and Congress."

She also writes that her father felt Sonia Gandhi was intelligent, hardworking and keen to learn. Once he told me that unlike many political leaders, her biggest strength was that she knew and recognized her weaknesses and was willing to work hard to overcome them. She knew that she lacked political experience but worked hard to understand the complexities of Indian politics and society".

THE PM-IN-WAITING FOREVER

In the book, the former Congress spokesperson who quit politics in 2021, also says that Mukherjee did not have any rancour against Sonia Gandhi for not making him the prime minister, and definitely not against the man chosen  Manmohan Singh.

No, she will not make me the PM," was Pranab Mukherjees cryptic response in a reference to Sonia Gandhi when he was asked by Sharmistha about his chances of becoming the prime minister in 2004.

ALSO READ | PM Narendra Modi and His Repeated Displays of Bipartisanship. Click Here for the Detailed List

If theres no expectation, theres no disappointment as well," the Rupa Publications book, which will be launched on Mukherjees birth anniversary on December 11, says. It is generally believed that Pranab had a chance to become the PM earlier in 1984 as well, after Indira Gandhis assassination, and not just in 2004," it adds.

Sharmistha says that people often asked her whether her father actually harboured the ambition to become the prime minister and she posed this question to him during the UPA-I era. Of course, I would like to be the prime minister. Any politician worth his salt has this ambition. But just because I want it does not necessarily mean I am going to get it," was his response, she writes.

With PTI Inputs
The introspection and course-correction that the Congress party plans to do in Rajasthan will be done soon, as the Lok Sabha election in 2024 is near and we need to gear up for it, Congress leader Sachin Pilot told News18, in his first exclusive interaction after the Congress lost the state.

ALSO READ | As Congress Loses Rajasthan, Can Magician Ashok Gehlot Still Survive to Cast Another Spell?

Pilot won from Tonk, but the long-drawn strife between Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and him is said to be one of the reasons behind the loss in Rajasthan. Pilot did not comment on it, but said it was unfortunate" that the Congress could not repeat its government. We had worked hard. It is unfortunate that we could not repeat our government and break the trend of the last 30 years in the state. Whatever introspection and course-correction the party will do after the loss, should happen soon as the Lok Sabha elections are just around the corner," Sachin Pilot has told News18.

He added that the Congress had passed a one-line resolution authorising the party to decide who the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) should be. The party will take the correct decision on how to move forward," Pilot told News18.

Pilot is seen as one of the front-runners for the post of the LoP. The Congress did not collapse in Eastern Rajasthan, Pilots stronghold area, unlike in the Western parts of the state, and won 23 seats here compared to 34 seats in the last elections. The party, however, lost eight of the 10 seats in Jodhpur, the home district of former CM Gehlot.

The Congress also did not win a single seat in Western Rajasthan districts such as Bhilwara, Chittorgarh, Pali and Rajasmand. The decision of the Congress leadership to repeat 98 MLAs cost it dear as 63 of them lost. The Congress had chosen to repeat 88% of its sitting MLAs, despite objections from Pilot who had argued to inject fresh blood to tide over the anti-incumbency against the sitting MLAs of the Congress.

ALSO READ | Rajasthan Rap: How Desert State Dealt 2nd Deadliest Blow to Congress in 30 Years in Terms of Vote Margin

Worse, the party repeated 26 Ministers as candidates and 17 of them lost the polls. The Congress could win 69 seats out of 199 to crash to its third-worst defeat in Rajasthan.

The two worst defeats of the party remain in 2013, when it won only 21 seats to lose power to the BJP, and before that in 2003, when it could win only 56 seats. All three defeats came when Gehlot was the Chief Minister. Incidentally, the party had managed to win 74 seats in the loss in the state after the Babri Masjid demolition incident in the 1990s. This time, the Congress could not touch that mark too.
The 2023 assembly elections not only took town the mighty fortress of the BRS, but also exposed cracks in the walls of another strong party  AIMIM.

The party, headquartered in Hyderabad, contested only nine seats of which it won seven. However, among the seven, there was a tense fight in two seats  Nampally and Yakutpura.

The counting process in these two seats had party leaders watching with bated breath as their Nampally candidate Md Majid Khan beat INC candidate Md Feroz Khan by a narrow margin of 2,037 votes and Yakutpura candidate Jaffar Hussain beat Majlis Bachao Tehreeks (MBT) Amjed Ullah Khan by only 878 votes. While Majid secured 62,185 votes, Feroz received 60,148 votes. Jaffar won 46,153 votes, while Amjed Ullah received 45,275 votes. Winning two seats by such narrow margins indicates that MIM has some formidable rivals to beat at its own turf.

Feroz Khans near-miss has made a section of the winning Congress unit demand that he should be inducted in the states new cabinet. Since no Muslim candidate from the Congress has won any seat, some leaders are demanding that Feroz should be in the cabinet to represent the minority community. In the 2018 assembly elections, he had contested against MIMs Jaffar Hussain, who fought from Yakutpura this year, and lost by 6,675 votes.

MBT is an offshoot of AIMIM

Amjed Ullah Khan, who lost Yakutpura by 878 votes, is the spokesperson of MBT. He is the son of Amanullah Khan who founded MBT after he had differences with the then AIMIM president Sultan Salahauddin Owaisi. He had protested against the lack of autonomy in MIM and formed MBT as an alternative party in Old City.

Amjed has always been proactive in raising his voice against the AIMIM.

In a video released after the polling, he accused the MIM of many unfair practices. MIM bought votes at one particular polling booth, created obstacles in the distribution of voter slips to houses which they suspected would not vote for them. There were also duplicate votes in many households, and the government machinery was also on their side, he alleged in a video.

Throughout the year, Amjed had pointed out how the BRS government had failed Muslims. He talked about the Alair encounter, demolition of mosques while building the new Secretariat and destruction of Wakf properties in Telangana.
Bigg Boss 13 contestants and lovebirds Asim Riaz and Himanshi Khurrana are no longer together. The duo was together for four years, and they reportedly called it quits recently. Bigg Boss, hosted by Bollywood actor Salman Khan, is quite popular among viewers. Apart from the numerous tasks the participants are assigned or the umpteen number of fights between them, the BB House is also a place where love blossoms. One among them was Asim and Himanshi. The masses loved the adorable chemistry between the two. But alas, it appears they have parted company.

Himanshi took to her Twitter handle and officially announced her breakup with Asim Riaz. She shared a note that read, YES, we are not together anymore, All the time we have spent together has been great but our togetherness comes to an end Now. The journey of our relationship was great and we are moving forward in our lives. We request you to respect our privacy  Himanshi..

In her tweet, Himanshi didnt disclose the reason behind parting ways with Asim Riaz, leaving their fans surprised and saddened. Despite earlier rumours of a breakup, Asim had dismissed them with a viral video of them together at the Mumbai airport. However, speculation were abuzz once again when Asim didnt extend birthday wishes to Himanshi, who celebrated on November 29 with close friends.

Rumours mills were abuzz in May, this year too. According to reports, both Asim and Himanshi had stopped following each other on social media back then. The couple, who painted the town red with their mushy pictures on Instagram, had also deleted their cute snaps from the platform, indicating trouble in paradise. Asim and Himanshi starred in a music video titled Khayal Rakhya Kar, which was much loved by the audience. But it seems like it will be their last video together.
News / Agriculture

by Staff Reporter

A spokesperson from the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa), Marjorie Munyonga, has refuted allegations that water supplies to the Silalatshani Irrigation Scheme in Insiza, Matabeleland South province, were disconnected due to an outstanding bill.Complaints arose on Monday from plot holders, asserting that their maize crops were withering prematurely after Zinwa allegedly cut off water supplies due to an estimated US$255,000 debt.Contrary to these claims, Munyonga stated that the reduction in water levels at the Silalatshana Dam, which provides water to the irrigation scheme, was the actual reason. She clarified, "Silalatshani Irrigation Scheme holds a valid water abstraction agreement entitling it to water allocation from Silalatshana Dam, supplied by Zinwa. However, the water abstraction agreement is approaching expiration and requires renewal."Munyonga elaborated on the potential challenges in renewing the agreement, citing the critically low water levels in Silalatshana Dam. She emphasized the dam's significance in supplying water to Zinwa stations like Colleen Bawn, underscoring the priority given to human life during periods of water scarcity."As of December 4, 2023, the dam was 40.4% full, necessitating careful consideration by Zinwa in water allocation and the acceptance of new water abstraction agreements," Munyonga added.Farmers contended that water supplies were severed the previous month, disclosing, "They disconnected water to the irrigation scheme, and we were instructed to pay US$300 each by the end of this month. Silalatshani is the sole breadbasket of the area; if the water is disconnected, people will face starvation," expressed one farmer anonymously.The Silalatshani Irrigation Scheme accommodates 853 farmers, each holding a maximum of two hectares. Additionally, Silalatshani Dam serves as a water source for JZ Moyo High School, Colleen Bawn town, and Ekusileni Mission.
Nia Sharma has once again set the internet on fire with her sizzling and bold fashion choices. The actress grabbed the attention as she flaunted her bold and glamorous side in a striking black outfit, and the photos have gone viral across social media platforms.

Taking to her Instagram handle on Tuesday, Nia Sharma dropped a bunch of pictures of herself from a recent weekend outing. The actress flaunted her cleavage in a black plunging, cropped vest coat which she styled with a matching pair of low waist pants and black lingerie. Photos and videos of her sexy outfit did not take too long to go viral. She wrote the caption, Never ask me the plan.. Ill never know and there will not be enough once Im out.. It was a Sunday going into a Monday I remember recapping on a Tuesday.

Take a look:

Nia Sharma made her television debut in 2010 with Kaali- Ek Agnipariksha. She rose to fame with shows like Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai, which also starred Krystle DSouza, Karan Tacker, and Kushal Tandon in key roles. Nia further gained immense appreciation for her show Jamai Raja in which she starred opposite Ravi Dubey. Nia has also participated in reality shows like Khatron Ke Khiladi and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. She completed 13 years in the industry this year and celebrated it with a cake. She also thanked fans for their constant support.

She wrote: 13 Crazy wonderful years In the Television World. Whoops! Never really remembered nor even counting until these cakes and flowers start flooding on every little big occasion. Have only love and gratitude in return. Virginia Freda Noor Foram joory.. Thank you for making me smile today (no that I wanted to announce to the world how many years I have spent).

Nia has been busy with her work as well. This year, she appeared in a few music videos which became the talk of the town.
Despite high demand for Kavach protection, just 10 route km and 18 locomotives have been added across the Indian Railway network during this financial year, the Ministry information shared in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday shows.

The Ministry informed the House that Kavach has so far been deployed on 1,465 route km and 139 locomotives (including Electric Multiple Unit rakes) on South Central Railway.

Till the end of the last financial year, the Ministry document shows that the technology covered 1,455 rkm of South Central Railway.

Of the 1,465 rkm, 265 rkm is between Lingamapalli-Vikarabad-Wadi and Vikarabad-Bidar section; 959 rkm between Manmad-Dhone and Guntkal section; and 241 rkm between Bidar-Parbhani section.

The Ministry informed that Kavach tenders have been awarded for Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Howrah corridors (approximately 3,000 route km) and work is in progress on these routes.

The Indian Railways has also taken up preparatory works including survey, Detailed Project Report (DPR) and preparation of detailed estimate on another 6,000 rKm, the Ministry added.

WHAT IS KAVACH?

In literal sense, Kavach means armour. It is an automatic train protection system indigenously developed by the Railway Ministrys Research Designs and Standards Organisation in association with Indian vendors.

Taking forward the governments AatmaNirbhar Bharat vision, Kavach has been adopted as the national automatic train protection system.

It is designed to bring a train to a halt automatically when it notices another train on the same line within a prescribed distance.

Kavach-installed trains are also meant to stop on their own when the digital system notices any manual error like jumping of the red signal or any other malfunction.

The system is also designed in a way that it controls the speed of the train by an automatic application of brakes in case the loco pilot fails to do so. It helps the loco pilot in running the train during inclement weather such as dense fog.

In the absence of this system, loco pilots or assistant loco pilots used to crane their necks out of the window to look out for caution signs and signals.

The Ministry informed the House that the first field trials on the passenger trains were started in February 2016. Based on the experience so gained and independent safety assessment of the system by a third party, three firms were approved in 2018-19, for supply of Kavach Subsequently Kavach was adopted as a National ATP system in July 2020, the Ministry said.

Post the Balasore train tragedy that killed nearly 300 people in June this year, there were serious demands for implementation of Kavach.
Union home minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said one seat in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly will be reserved for displaced persons from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Two bills  the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 and Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023  were passed by the Lok Sabha, a day after they were introduced.

Calling them the naya Kashmir bills in the Lok Sabha, Shah said they will give justice to those deprived of their rights for the last 70 years and asserted that reservation to the displaced people will give them a voice in the legislature. The opposition went up in arms and the Congress staged a walkout after he said Jammu and Kashmir had suffered due to two blunders committed by former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru  first announcing ceasefire and then taking the Kashmir issue to the United Nations.

I stand in the House and say responsibly that Kashmir suffered for several years because of the two blunders during the tenure of PM Jawaharlal Nehru. The biggest mistake was that when our forces were winning, ceasefire was announced and PoK (Pakistan-occupied Kashmir) came into existence. Had the ceasefire been delayed by three days, PoK would have been a part of India. Second was to take our issue to the UN, he said.

Speaking about the two bills, Shah further said one of the two seeks to give representation to those who had to leave Kashmir due to terrorism. One of two bills on Jammu and Kashmir seeks to nominate two Kashmiri migrant community members, including a woman, to the assembly Earlier there were 37 seats in Jammu, now there are 43. Earlier there were 46 in Kashmir, now there are 47 and in PoK, 24 seats have been reserved since PoK is ours Two seats will be reserved for Kashmiri migrant community members, and one seat will be reserved for people displaced from PoK. For the first time, nine seats will be reserved for SC/ST communities he said.

About the predicament of Kashmiri Pandits, the union home minister said had terrorism been tackled at the beginning without considering vote-bank politics, Kashmiri Pandits would never have had to leave the Valley. There was an era of terrorism (in Jammu and Kashmir) after the 1980s and it was a horrifying scene. Those who lived on the land considering it their country, were thrown out and no one cared about them, neither did they try to stop it. In fact, they were responsible to stop it, enjoying vacations in England, he said.

He added: When they (Kashmiri Pandits) were displaced, they were forced lived as refugees in their own country. Around 46,631 families were displaced in their own country. This Bill is to get them rights, it is to give them representation.

Slamming the Congress in his speech, Shah further said the party has done the greatest harm to other backward classes while Prime Minister Narendra Modi is trying to correct that by working relentlessly towards their welfare. I believe the Modi government will return to power in 2024 and, by 2026, I hope there will be no terror incident in J&K, he said.

At least 45,000 people, Shah said, have lost their lives due to terrorism in J&K so far. The central governments focus is to end the terror ecosystem in the UT, he said. This Bill is another addition to the hundreds of progressive changes brought in the country by PM Modi. (The opposition) raised some legal and constitutional issues. First, they said that the law, in which the amendment has brought, itself is challenged in the court. I want to ask (Hasnain) Masoodi, Article 370 was challenged for several years, why didnt you stop it? he asked.

The minister said he was glad that no one opposed the bills while deliberating upon them. There is a difference between granting someone their rights, and granting someone their rights with dignity. The bill that I have brought pertains to bringing justice to and providing rights to those against whom injustice was done, who were insulted and ignored. In any society, those who are deprived should be brought forward. That is the basic sense of the Constitution of India. But they have to be brought forward in a way that doesnt reduce their respect, he added.

Shah also lauded the Modi government for revoking Article 370 and said a fair delimitation exercise was a part of this bill. Our focus is to end the terror ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. There was no stone pelting in 2023. After the abrogation of Article 370cinemas became operational. Today, we can see har ghar tiranga in the Valley, he added.

On Tuesday (December 5), Shah moved the two bills in the Lok Sabha. They were passed after more than six hours of debate spanning over two days.

The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 seeks to nominate two members from the Kashmiri migrant community and one representing the displaced persons from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to the legislative assembly. The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 seeks to change the nomenclature of a section of people eligible for quota in appointment and admission.

(With PTI inputs)
Passengers created ruckus at the Bengaluru airport on Wednesday after waiting more than 12 hours to board a SpiceJet flight for Mumbai. The flight was scheduled to take off at 5 am, but the passengers had not been able to board even in the afternoon.

Chaos ensued after the passengers lost their cool and got into an argument with the airline officials, accusing them of being unable to make alternate arrangements for them despite multiple deadlines. The passengers said the airline claimed that there was a technical glitch with the Mumbai-bound flight.

According to reports, the passengers first received a message that the flight has been rescheduled to take off earlier than usual. After the passengers boarded the plane, they waited inside for two hours only to be asked to get down and return to boarding gate number 15 and were reportedly told that the flight has been rescheduled to 12 pm. Later, it was rescheduled to 3 pm and the flight is now scheduled to take off at 8.30 pm.

There was much frustration among the passengers who started questioning the airline staff about the unexplained delay and lack of updates. Passengers alleged that the airline officials were not responding adequately to their concerns.

Some people took to social media platform X, formerly Twitter, to vent. Some even tagged civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and the Airports Authority of India.

@AAI_Official @DGCAIndia@flyspicejetEndured an 8-hour delay on a SpiceJet flight SG8729, causing significant disruptions and inconveniences.I am extremely distressed by this.Disappointed by the airlines inability to manage the situation effectively. #SpiceJet #FlightDelay Divya Jyoti (@__j__divya) December 6, 2023

Hi @Cleartrip @makemytrip @EaseMyTrip @ixigo can you stop advertising and selling SpiceJet flights on your platforms? These idiots never fly on time and keep doing their stupidity on all routes Resident (@dnightwarrior11) December 6, 2023

The SpiceJet flight from Mumbai to Gorakhpur is delayed by 8 hours And It is very important for all the people to go, someones brother has died and someones relative has died but no hearing is taking place here@JM_Scindia@Officejmscindia @flyspicejet @DGCAIndia pic.twitter.com/D68Nf14qrH Alok Pandey (@Alokcti) December 6, 2023

@AjaySingh_SG please shit down your company delay of 9 hours or 10 hours ar so common and your company takes no responsibility Mayank Shekhar (@mayankshekhar92) December 6, 2023

SpiceJet, is this how you treat loyal customers? Is this your strategy for growth and competition? Do you value your customers at all?My query deserves attention, not silence. SpiceJet, address my issue promptly and compensate me for the inconvenience caused.#SpiceJet Amandeep Kumar Tiwary (@amandeepkumar23) December 6, 2023

SpiceJet has not yet released a statement regarding the incident.

This is not the first time SpiceJet has come under fire for operational delays. Only a few days ago, there was ruckus at the Delhi airport after passengers got into an argument with the airline staff over a delay of more than seven hours for a Patna-bound flight. The airline claimed that the passengers were duly informed of the schedule changes the previous night.
Cyclonic storm Michaung crossed Andhra Pradesh close to Baptla on Tuesday and weakened into a deep depression over central coastal Andhra Pradesh, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) informed on Wednesday.

Cyclonic Storm MICHAUNG weakened into a Deep Depression over Central Coastal AP. About 100 km north-northwest of Bapatla and 50 km southeast of Khammam. To weaken further into a Depression in the next 06 hours and further into a WML during subsequent 06 hours, the weather agency said in an X post.

Cyclonic Storm MICHAUNG weakened into a Deep Depression over Central Coastal AP. About 100 km north-northwest of Bapatla and 50 km southeast of https://t.co/W1UMY7yYGa weaken further into a Depression in next 06 hours and further into a WML during subsequent 06 hours. pic.twitter.com/KFD2BjBMvn India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) December 5, 2023

Meanwhile, Chennai is still reeling under flood due to heavy rainfall owing to cyclone Michaung. Several parts of the city experienced no electricity or internet connectivity for 72 hours straight.

Although the intensity of rain reduced on Tuesday, waterlogging was reported in some parts of the city, especially the suburban areas.

#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Roads in Chennai inundated due to heavy rainfall owing to #CycloneMichaung (5.12) pic.twitter.com/V9eTLgr23u ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2023

Here are latest updates on Cyclone Michaung 
India recently welcomed a young Pakistani woman Javeria Khanum, who crossed borders and arrived in Kolkata to the beats of dhol to marry her lover. She arrived in India from the Wagah-Attari International Border on Tuesday on a 45-day visa.

Upon her arrival, Khanum thanked the Indian government for granting her visa. She is all set to tie the knot with Sameer Khan, an exporter of finished leather goods from Kolkata in January next year.

I thank the Indian Government for helping me to get the Visa. While talking about her opinion regarding India, she remarked,  I came by flight to Kolkata from Amritsar. So when the flight was landing it was beautiful. Full of greenery and very colourful. I didnt get scope to roam around here but wanted to do it wholeheartedly.

Talking about the struggles in her love life, Javeria Khanum told the media that she made constant efforts to come to India. However, the authorities rejected her two visa applications.

Then later due to the Covid pandemic, their plans were stalled for almost five years.

I have been given a 45-day visa. I am very happy to be here. Im already getting a lot of love since Ive been here. We will be married in the first week of January. I cant believe I got my visa after five years. Its a happy ending and a happy beginning. Everyone in our house is very happy, she said.

On his upcoming wedding with Khanum, Sameer Khan said, I lived in Germany for studies. Then I came home from there in 2018. We have known each other since 2018. I had seen a picture of her on my mothers phone and I told my mother that I would marry her. So after six years of knowing each other, we are getting married.

About the delay in her visa applications, Khanum said that her family is often concerned about how they would be able to meet her in India since the visa process is quite stringent.

My family often wondered during my relationship how I would meet them once I came to India as the Visa process is very difficult. We applied twice for a visa. But since the process of getting a Visa between India and Pakistan is legally very difficult after rejection twice I finally got the visa for 45 days, Khanum said.

About the India- Pakistan relationship both of them are very hopeful, the couple said, The people of both the countries are very good and helpful. When we needed a visa the Indian Government helped us very much. On the other hand, the people of Pakistan also want to visit a beautiful land like India. People are always ready to help for good needs. The way we got the help. The people who are using illegal ways are the reason for honest peoples harassment.

Javeria Khanum said that her friends from Germany, Africa, Spain, the USA and other countries are likely to attend her wedding.
Punjab police had sent an alert to their counterparts in Rajasthan about a deadly plan to kill Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Senas president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, sources told News18, adding that the inputs were shared in the month of March.

According to documents accessed by News18, Lawrence Bishnoi gang member Sampat Nehra, lodged in Bathinda jail, was planning to carry out the attack. Nehra had reportedly also asked his men to arrange for AK-47.

Sources further said that Rajasthan police has picked up two suspects from Haryana based on inputs from the mobile phone of their accomplice Naveen Shekhawat who was shot dead. Police, however, is still verifying if these two people are the main accused in the murder.

Local reports stated that police has zeroed down on one Rohit Rathore, who is a resident of Rajasthans Makrana, and one Nitin Fauji, who is a resident of Mahendragarh in Haryana.

Rajasthan Director General of Police (DGP) Umesh Mishra had said on Tuesday that they have sought the cooperation of its Haryana counterparts.

A purported social media post of Rohit Godara, affiliated with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, is going viral online in which he claims to have ordered the killing of Gogamedi as the Rajput leader was supporting his gangs enemies and was working to strengthen them.

According to Zee News, Gogamedis outfit has threatened to neither cremate his body nor let the new government swear-in until killers of their leader are encountered.

Who is Rohit Godara?

According to reports, Rohit Godara hails from Rajasthans Bikaner. He has a notorious criminal record, and is presently on the run.

Known for his involvement in the underworld, Godara has more than 32 serious cases filed against him since 2010. He has allegedly demanded extortion ranging from Rs 5 crore to Rs 17 crore from several businessmen in Rajasthan.

According to a report in India Today, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has initiated measures to apprehend him and lodged criminal charges against him.

Godara is also accused of orchestrating the murder of gangster Raju Theth in Sikar last year. He took the responsibility of the killing in a Facebook post, saying that it was the retribution was in response to the deaths of gangsters Anandpal Singh and Balveer Banuda.

Godaras name reportedly also surfaced in connection with the murder of Sidhu Moose Wala.

According to the India Today report, Rohit Godara, who works for Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Brar gangs, fled to Dubai in June, 2022 from Delhi, using a fake passport. A red corner notice has also been issued against him, and it is believed that he is currently in Canada.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday, while addressing the Lok Sabha on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Bill and Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2023, alleged that Kashmir has suffered due to two blunders committed by the countrys first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

Amit Shah made the statement as the Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to nominate two members from the Kashmiri migrant community and one representing the displaced persons from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to the legislative assembly.

The House also passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to change the nomenclature of a section of people who are eligible for quota in appointment and admission.

Shah blamed Nehru for declaring a ceasefire without winning the entire Kashmir and taking the issue to the United Nations, which led to the sufferings of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He also said if the ceasefire would have been declared three days later, PoK would have been part of India.

#WATCH | Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, "Two mistakes that happened due to the decision of (former PM) Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru due to which Kashmir had to suffer for many years. The first is to declare a ceasefire  when our army was winning, the ceasefire was imposed. If pic.twitter.com/3TMm8fk5O1 ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2023

I support the word that was used here  Nehruvian blunder. Because of the blunder that was committed during the time of Nehru, Kashmir had to suffer. With responsibility, I want to say that the two big blunders that happened during the tenure of Jawaharlal Nehru, happened due to his decisions, because of which Kashmir had to suffer for years, Shah said.

Kashmir had to suffer due to Nehruvian blunders. One was that when our Army was winning and as soon as Punjab area was reached, ceasefire was declared and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir was born. If the ceasefire would have been (declared) three days later, PoK would have been part of India, the home minister added.

He also blamed Nehru for losing Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to the neighbouring nation. Had Jawaharlal Nehru taken right steps, PoK would have been part of India now. It was historic blunder, he added.

The two bills were passed after more than six hours of debate spanning over two days and a spirited reply by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

The home minister said the two bills related to Jammu and Kashmir brought by the government will give justice to those deprived of their rights for the last 70 years and asserted that reservation to the displaced people will give them a voice in the legislature.

The biggest opposition to the Backward Class and the work of stopping the Backward Class has been done by the Congress Party. The Backward Classes Commission was not given constitutional recognition for 70 years, Narendra Modi government gave constitutional recognition to the Backward Classes Commission, Amit Shah said.

The home minister said a plan to have zero terror incident in Jammu and Kashmir has been in force for the last three years and it will be successful by 2026 when there will be no violence.

The Union Home Minister also said that no stone pelting took place in 2023 and added that Prime Minister Modi has been working relentlessly for welfare of backward classes.
Hello, readers! In todays evening digest, News18 brings to you the latest updates on one seat in Jammu and Kashmir assembly to be reserved for people displaced from PoK,Senthil Kumars remark in Lok Sabha and other stories.

One Seat in J&K Assembly to be Reserved for Displaced Persons from PoK, Says Amit Shah

Union home minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said one seat in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly will be reserved for displaced persons from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Two bills  the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 and Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023  were passed by the Lok Sabha, a day after they were introduced. READ MORE

PM Modi Only PM After Indira to Feel Peoples Pulse Acutely & Accurately, thought Late Pranab Mukherjee

Pranab Mukherjee, the late President and a veteran Congress leader, felt that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the only PM after Indira Gandhi who has the ability to feel the pulse of the people so acutely and accurately, according to his daughter Sharmistha. READ MORE

Senthil Kumar Withdraws His Derogatory Remark in Parl But This Isnt His 1st | More Shocking Comments

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Iran Just Sent a Capsule with Animals into Earths Orbit as Precursor to Manned Missions

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The Archies FIRST Review Out: Suhana Is Here to Conquer, Agastya and Khushi Are Fantastic

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BAN vs NZ, 2nd Test: Bangladeshs Mushfiqur Rahim Given Rare Obstructing the Field Out | WATCH

Bangladeshs Mushfiqur Rahim became only the second batsman in Test history dismissed for obstructing the field in Wednesdays second Test match against New Zealand at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka on Wednesday. READ MORE
The supporters of prominent Rajput leader Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi have called a Rajasthan bandh on Wednesday, a day after a large number of men from the community gathered outside the private hospital and refused to take away the body.

The men, assembled outside the hospital in Jaipurs Mansarovar area where Gogamedis body was kept, blocked the Shipra Path road, and insisted on arrest of the assailants, and announced that a city-wide bandh (shutdown).

A report in Times of India quoted Ram Singh Chandlai, president of Rajput Sabha Bhavan, as saying: In light of this brutal killing, a city-wide bandh will be enforced. The government should also provide a compensation package to the family. A decision over what this compensation package should be will be made on Wednesday in a meeting at Sabha Bhavan.

The report stated that many private schools, offices, and commercial establishments have also announced that they will remain closed on Wednesday in response to the call by Rajput outfits for a bandh.

TOI stated that the police had not clamped Section 144 anywhere when they filed the report, however, private institutions have decided to not take the risk.

As news of Gogamedis killing spread, various areas in the city, including Jhotwara, Khatipura and many others, saw a shutdown, with enraged people taking to the streets and chanting slogans against the administration, the publication mentioned.

Residents claimed that the city was becoming increasingly unsafe. Mohan Singh, a resident of the same locality as Gogamedi, was quoted as saying, It is alarming that someone can be shot dead in their house in an upscale locality. The assailants fled on foot and forcibly took a vehicle at gunpoint. Stringent measures must be taken to discourage such incidents.

Reportedly, several community leaders, including Pratap Singh and senior BJP leader Rajendra Singh Rathore, arrived at the hospital to participate in the protest.

The report further stated that fear gripped the Shyam Nagar area after the shootout. A posse of policemen and relatives gathered outside the house, but many neighbours locked themselves inside their homes, it mentioned.

Protests were also held in Churu, Udaipur, Alwar and Jodhpur districts. Pali district was shut on Wednesday. News18 reporters informed that Karni Sena workers were getting shops closed. Heavy police has been deployed in Pali as trade body has supported the bandh.

Gogamedi, the president of right-wing group Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, was shot dead in the living room of his house here on Tuesday by three men.

Rohit Godara, a gangster closely associated with the gangs of Goldie Brar and Lawrence Bishnoi, has taken responsibility for the murder in a Facebook post. Police said that searches have been launched to trace the two assailants who managed to flee.

The Rohit Godara gang has taken responsibility for the murder. All possible hideouts of the attackers are being raided in the neighbouring districts and the Bikaner division, DGP Umesh Mishra said, adding that Rajasthan Police has also sought the cooperation of its Haryana counterparts.

One of the assailants was also gunned down by his accomplices, police said. Earlier, Jaipur Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph had said the assailant was killed in retaliatory firing by Gogamedis security guards.

One of Gogamedis security guards sustained bullet injuries in the exchange of fire with the assailants, who had gone to his house in the Shyam Nagar area on the pretext of meeting him, police said.

According to officials, Governor Kalraj Mishra has sought a report from the DGP on the incident, which was caught on CCTV and triggered protests by Gogamedis supporters.

In the CCTV footage, the attackers are seen whipping out their weapons and firing indiscriminately at Gogamedi, who is sitting on a couch opposite them and eventually falls down. Before fleeing, one of the assailants shoots a motionless Gogamedi lying on the floor from a close range.

Gogamedi formed Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena after he was expelled from Sri Rajput Karni Sena in 2015 over differences with its founder Lokendra Singh Kalvi.

Both these outfits had protested against Deepika Padukone starrer Padmaavat in 2018 over alleged distortion of historical facts about the Rajput community.

The attackers entered Gogamedis house on the pretext that they wanted to talk to him. After talking to him for some time, they opened fire at him. One of Gogamedis security guards retaliated and was injured in the firing. During the incident, two attackers shot their accomplice Naveen Shekhawat, DGP Mishra said.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Sengezo Tshabangu has apologised to former Masvingo mayor Shantel Chiwara after he was filmed referring to her as a "little girl".The self-styled Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) interim secretary general was blasted online and accused of sexism against the 25-year-old after he suggested she became mayor because she was a girlfriend of a senior party leader."It's regrettable that my remarks came across as sexist," Tshabangu told ZimLive on Monday. "I apologise for the poor choice of words that I used and thank all those that pointed this issue out to me."CCC MP Fadzayi Mahere (Mt Pleasant) led the chorus of condemnation after Tshabangu made the remarks in an interview with HSTV, blasting: "This is disgusting misogyny on display here by Mr Tshabangu. His defamatory, sexist remarks go beyond politics. It's an attack on the right of a young, competent woman to lead and must be condemned by all progressive Zimbabweans."Chiwara was elected a councillor in Masvingo in the August 23 general elections but was recalled by Tshabangu, who wrote a letter to the local government minister claiming she had ceased to be a CCC member. Chiwara and her CCC party say Tshabangu is an impostor and has no authority to recall the party's elected officials."I reiterate that Shantiel Chiwara was not procedurally appointed to be a candidate in her ward, nor does she have the requisite experience for such a crucial role as mayor," Tshabangu insisted.Tshabangu has recalled over two dozen CCC MPs and senators and over 40 councillors, claiming they were not properly selected as candidates during the party's candidate selection process.Chiwara will try to win her Ward 2 seat again in by-elections scheduled for December 9, although Tshabangu has gone to court seeking the disqualification of all recalled CCC councillors and MPs who have filed to stand in the election as CCC candidates. He argues that they cannot stand on the ticket of the party that recalled them.
Raising the issue of infiltration from Bangladesh, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that Rohingya use Assam and NorthEastern states mostly as transit points to reach other parts of India.

Sarma said, Assam is facing a national issue, the issue of Rohingya infiltration is not just an issue of the state. They use Assam and Tripura mostly as a transit point to enter India from Bangladesh. The Assam Police and its Special Task Force (STF) teams work hard to nab the touts who help them get fake documents.

The Rohingya Community

The issue dates back to the early 15th century and transcends the border of Assam. The Assam-Bangladesh international border is 262-km-long, of which 1.6% is unfenced. The Assam-Tripura interstate border is 46-km-long.

There are two distinct Muslim groups in Myanmar. The group that was brought to Myanmar during the British colonial period is Rohingya. After Independence, in 1948, Myanmar refused citizenship to the Rohingya. Initially, citizens with families, who had lived in Myanmar for at least two centuries, were allowed to apply for citizenship. After the military coup in 1962, the Myanmar government started issuing foreign identity cards to them.

In 1982, a new citizenship law was passed, which did not recognise Rohingya as one of the countrys 135 ethnic groups because they had sided with the British who were seeking to overthrow the colonial rule. This rendered the Rohingya stateless.

The community moves from one place to another, mostly illegally. They are also accused of crimes such as rape and murder, drug trafficking, women and children trafficking, human trafficking.

THE ASSAM POLICE CRACKDOWN

In February 2023, the Karimganj District police intercepted a group of Rohingya heading to Delhi by train. The investigation revealed a bigger plot.

Assam DIG Partha Sartha Mahanta on Wednesday said it was revealed that the Indo-Bangladesh Border in Tripura and West Bengal are the entry points facilitated by a network of touts in Bangladesh and India. The Special Task Force led by the Assam DIG managed to apprehend and seize touts with fake documents.

Mahanta stated, The preferred destinations via Assam are Delhi, Jammu, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kerala. They mostly move in trains and buses, which makes it difficult to detect them. There is a demand for cheap labour, which the touts help fulfil.

After the Assam CM started monitoring, we ramped up our operations. We intensified checking at international and inter state borders, checking trains and buses coming from border areas. So far, the Assam police have detected 137 Rohingya and 304 Bangladeshis entering illegally. All of them have been sent back with assistance of the BSF, he added.

Mahanta added, In a major operation recently, the Assam STF cracked down on illegal Rohingya immigrants, arrested nine persons from Tripura and three touts, including 2 Bangladeshi nationals, from Tripura and one from Assam. Two cases were registered. One was taken up by the NIA. Subsequently, in a joint operation, 47 touts were arrested in the country, the highest (25) in Tripura, followed by Karnataka with 9 arrests. This has been the biggest crackdown on Rohingya in India. 

Further, the National Crime Records Bureau, in its latest report, has highlighted a 50% drop in crime rate in Assam compared to 2021. A significant drop has also been witnessed in crime rates against women and children, reflecting the state governments commitment to tackle crime through several reforms in policing.

The Assam CM stated that the new data can be dubbed as a turnover for the state. I am sure by 2023, when the NCRB data will be released, our position will improve. This is the first time, probably since 1979, that we have seen a turnaround.
The Rajasthan police on Wednesday achieved a major breakthrough in the murder case of the Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena chief after the two shooters, who were involved in killing Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, were identified.

The accused have been identified as Rohit Rathore, a resident of Rajasthans Nagaur and Nitin Fouji who is from Haryanas Mahendragarh, ANI reported quoting the Rajasthan police. The third criminal was killed during the murder in exchange of fire.

The development came hours after Director General of Police Umesh Mishra formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the killing of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi.

The SIT is headed by Additional Director General (Crime) Dinesh MN and a cash reward of Rs 5 lakh for information leading to the arrest of the two accused was also announced.

The Rajasthan Police also carried out searches to nab the two accused who allegedly killed Gogamedi for backing the enemies of gangster Rohit Godara  said to be linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang  who has taken responsibility for the murder in a Facebook post.

Gogamedi was shot dead in the living room of his house here on Tuesday. Markets remained closed in Jaipur, Bundi, Ajmer, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh and some other districts while a mass rally was taken out in Udaipur and a demonstration was held at the collectorate circle amid heavy deployment of police.

Meanwhile, unrest broke out in the state after supporters of Gogamedi had given a Jaipur bandh call and gathered in the Khatipura area in the morning from where they moved to other parts of the city asking shopkeepers to shut their establishments.

The police had to resort to lathi-charge to disperse members protesting against the murder of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, national president of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena.

There was no movement of public transport in the capital city and the services of roadway buses were also affected, officials said.

VIDEO | Sheila Shekhawat, wife of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, addresses protesters in Jaipur, seeking their support against her husband's killers. Sukhdev Singh was shot dead in the living room of his house in Jaipur on Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/dG8cLLm2I9  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 6, 2023

Meanwhile, Sheila Shekhawat, wife of deceased Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi on Wednesday addressed protesters in Jaipur and sought their support against her husbands killers.
Amitabh Bachchans grandson Agastya Nanda is all set to make his acting debut with The Archies. On Tuesday, the makers also organised a special screening for the celebrities in which Bachchans and Nandas were seen attending. They all came together to cheer for Agastya Nanda. Well, as Agastya starts his journey, Abhishek Bachchan and his mother Shweta drop monochrome photos along with a heartfelt note. The Archies is releasing on December 7 on Netflix.

Abhishek Bachchan shared a picture in which he is seen helping Agastya get ready and writes, All you have to do is reach out and Ill be there to hold your hand. Welcome to the movies my dearest Agastya! Shweta also shared a photo from the same place. We can see Amitabh Bachchan sitting and watching Agastya. The room is filled with pictures of Navya, and Agastya, and there is even Abhishek and Aishwaryas wedding photo. Shweta did not write anything just a white heart emoji.

Take a look here:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Abhishek Bachchan (@bachchan)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by S (@shwetabachchan)

During the screening, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was also seen playfully teasing Agastya. The video has gone viral on social media.

The Archies, directed by Zoya Akhtar, is an Indian live-action musical movie based on the popular American comics of the same name. The Archies is set in desi Riverdale in which Suhana plays the role of Veronica Lodge, a teenager who has just moved back from the UK and is ready to dive into the 2.0 version of her teenage life. She is best friends with Betty Cooper, played by Khushi, and Archie Andrews, essayed by Agastya. While everything in their lives seem to be going well, Veronicas father decides to bring in malls and development to Riverdale. As a result, several iconic places begin to shut down, including Bettys fathers bookstore and the massive green landscape comes under danger. The redevelopment plans take a toll on Veronicas friendships in the hill station town. However, Veronica decides to side with her friends and find a way to stop her father.

The Archies have already released two songs  Va Va Vroom and Sunoh. Both the songs have been penned by Javed Akhtar. While Sunoh has been composed by Ankur Tiwari, Va Va Vroom is composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy.
Joram Movie Review: What is home? A simple question with too many layers and too much depth. Manoj Bajpayees upcoming film Joram tries to address the essence of home but unlike home, it is cold, dark, distressful and disturbing. Thats the treatment director Devashish Makhija of Bhonsle fame takes and though the film raises some pertinent questions about life and world, it doesnt quite cause a stir within you and leaves you wanting for so much more.

Largely set in Jharkhand, Joram is themed on displacement, environmental crisis and man versus nature conflict and is brilliant on paper. Dasru, now known as Bala, flees to Mumbai along with his wife, Vaano, in search of a better life. The couple works as labours at a building in the city and though they live on a meagre salary, they happily parent their baby daughter named Joram. But a shocking visit from Phulo Karma upsets the apple cart and reveal the many skeletons in Dasrus closet.

Soon, Vaano dies and he runs off to his village in Jharkhand along with Joram. We come to know that Phulo Karma has scores to settle with Dasru, who was once a part of the Naxalite gang and was responsible for the death of her son. How Dasru keeps escaping the system and fights the label of a Naxalite while protecting his daughter and searches for a home for her form the rest of the story.

At two hours, Joram seems excruciatingly slow. Makhija probably makes use of a languorous pace to establish crucial scenes and Dasrus emotional, political and social conflicts but it leaves you impatient. Though gut-wrenching in the beginning, the film eventually deeply makes you feel suffocated and unsettled and you really want it to get over. Art is supposed to disturb the comfortable and Makhija takes it too seriously. This film might not be for everyone and particularly, not for the faint-hearted.

However, the director deserves applause for creating a world that not many of us are aware of. His understanding of Jharkhand, its people, its texture and its natural abundance is impressive. The state almost becomes like a character in the film. While Makhija incorporates a happy moment between Dasru and Vaano serenading, enjoying the lushness of the fertile land and the cool breeze, as the first sequence, you will slowly realise that it was just the calm before the storm. And before you know it, fear and grey start looming large over the narrative. It, however, lacks the thrill of a quintessential survival thriller.

Makhija also touches upon the political and economic scenario of Jharkhand and the many connotations associated with its Naxalite movement. It might not be as hard-hitting as Virata Parvam but it definitely adds a layer to the narrative and makes you question a lot about the current climate. The use of tribal music renders another layer of authenticity to the story.

The stupendous performance by the entire star cast should nudge you to give it a watch (if you can deal with the heaviness it leaves in your heart). Manoj Bajpayee as Dasru/Bala is brilliant and he slips under the skin of a local from a village in Jharkhand with aplomb. He gets the language and nuance right and his haplessness and helplessness as a husband, who has just lost his wife, and father will tug at your heartstrings. There are many tender moments he shares with baby Joram which will surely leave you teary eyed.

Tannishtha Chatterjee as Vaano has a guest appearance and she is impressive. Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub as Ratnakar Bagul is top-notch. He plays a cop thats beautifully humanised and he lets his silence do most of the talking. His restraint deserves a special mention here. But it is Smita Tambe Dwivedi who surprises as tribal leader Phulo Karma and grabs the most attention. Shes resolute, unyielding and iron-fisted but never resorts to melodrama or plays to the gallery to prove her mettle.

Joram can be best described as a Rubiks cube. It takes a whole lot of patience to reach the conclusion and even after that, the tediousness of the process robs of you of the satisfaction of the result. Watch it only if youre true-blue indie cinema connoisseur.
Kannada film industry is known for their remarkable works. They have produced some of the most engaging content that has not only impressed the audience on a regional level, but has become a huge hit on a pan-India level too. The performances of artists, directors, writers, musicians and technicians from the industry have won a lot of appreciation from the entire country. One such film that became a big hit was Kantara. The film was directed by Rishab Shetty, who himself acted as the male lead. Even though the film was made on a small budget, it became a huge hit and received a tremendous response for its unique storyline. The makers recently launched the first look teaser for the prequel to Kantara, which is titled as Kantara A Legend: Chapter 1.

There has been a lot of hype for the second part of Kantara. The film is actually a prequel to the first instalment and it will show in-depth information about the local culture. Recently, the poster for the prequel was launched, where Rishabh Shetty can be seen in a fierce avatar holding an axe and a trident. In an interview, the producer of the film, Vijay Kiragandur, has talked about the poster and the recent developments regarding the prequel. He said, There is a story in the coastal areas of Karnataka that Parshuram has created, and the role of Shiva is also very important in this story. The poster has been made in the symbolic form of Shiva and Parshuram.

Vijay also added that it took 10 days to prepare the films first-look poster. He said that there will be shooting for 1015 days every month, and the shoot will be completed in 68 months. After that, the post-production will take 34 months. He added that most of the shoot will take place in the dense forest of Sri Lanka.

He also explained that the prequel will be made on a grander level, as compared to its first part. This part will have more palaces and structures to refer to ancient times. As a result, the budget of the film has also increased. Reportedly, the budget of Kantara A Legend: Chapter 1 has doubled from its first part.
Acclaimed actor Natalie Portman recently featured on Andy Cohens Watch What Happens Live chat show to promote her new film, May December. During her conversation, the actress once again expressed her openness to stepping back into the character of Padme Amidala within the Star Wars franchise. Portman, who received widespread accolades and fame with a pivotal role in filmmaker George Lucas prequel trilogy during her teenage years, took a trip down memory lane and recalled her debut in The Phantom Menace, which premiered in 1999 when she was just 18.

While talking to the host, Andy Cohen, Portman also shared an intriguing anecdote from her past  an encounter with the British royal family at The Phantom Menace premiere. It was during this event that Prince Charles, then still Prince Charles, posed an interesting question about Portmans involvement in the original Star Wars films. I remember Prince Charles, he was then Prince Charles asked me if I was in the originals. I was like, No, Im 18! But he was very friendly," she said.

Despite the absence of any invitations to reprise her role in the Star Wars saga, Portman openly expressed her willingness to entertain such a possibility.

Reflecting on her time working on the prequel trilogy, she warmly described the experience as nothing short of amazing. It was the first time I worked digitally. I dont think anyone was shooting that way then. It was my first time working with a green screen. It was a whole new set of skills to pick up and a whole new world to enter," Portman explains.

Watch the full episode here:

The challenge of Portmans character Padmes demise in Revenge of the Sixth film complicates the possibility of her rejoining the franchise. However, the Star Wars series has a track record of resurrecting seemingly deceased characters. For example, the character Darth Maul from Phantom Menace makes a return in Solo.

As of now, Taika Waititi, a filmmaker known for movies like Jojo Rabbit and Next Goal Wins, is reportedly directing a new installment in the Star Wars cinematic universe, reports Variety.

In an interview with the GQ magazine, Portman had shared that Waititi, who has previously worked with Natalie Portman in Thor: Love and Thunder had extended an invitation to Portman in 2022, to join the cast of his forthcoming Star Wars venture, oblivious to her already existing role as Padme.

Natalie Portmans romance drama, May December drama is now available for streaming on Netflix. It is directed by Todd Haynes and also stars Charles Melton, Piper Curda, and Julianne Moore in major roles.
Netflix hosted a grand premiere of The Archies in Mumbai on December 5. The event transformed into a star-studded extravaganza, with top names from Bollywood in attendance to witness the much-awaited coming-of-age musical. Several inside pictures from the premiere night captured the magical reunions, candid interactions, and the jubilant celebration of the films cast and the stars of Bollywood. One of the standout moments of the night was the heartwarming hug shared between Shah Rukh Khan and stand-up comedian Vir Das.

On Instagram, Vir Das shared a captivating black and white photo of himself with SRK. The image captured a heartfelt moment as Shah Rukh hugged Vir Das. In the accompanying caption, Vir Das wrote, Met the King. The stand-up comedian recently made history by clinching the prestigious award for Vir Das: Landing in the Comedy category at the International Emmy Awards 2023.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vir Das (@virdas)

The comment section was flooded with love and adoration from fans and followers of the comedian. One user wrote, The best photo of the night, while another fan commented, How lovely! The joy looked so genuine. A fan comment read, My 2 favourites in one frame.

Another heartwarming moment from the premiere night was a reunion between Shah Rukh and his iconic on-screen partner, Kajol. The duo, who charmed audiences in classics like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, shared a special moment that sent fans into a frenzy. Dressed in a beautiful floral saree, Kajol was seen in a candid smile, while King Khan looked dapper in an all-black ensemble.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Netflix India (@netflix_in)

The glamour quotient soared as other Bollywood A-listers graced the event. Ranbir Kapoor and Ranveer Singh were spotted seated together, cheering as The Archies played on the big screen. Another noteworthy moment captured the films lead actor, Agastya Nanda, posing with his grandfather, Amitabh Bachchan, and Abhishek Bachchan. Hrithik Roshan and Saba Azad added to the romantic ambiance by strolling hand-in-hand, while rumoured couple Ananya Panday and Aditya Roy Kapur made a stylish entrance. Sharvari Wagh and Sunny Kaushal were also spotted enjoying the film together.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Netflix India (@netflix_in)

Directed by Zoya Akhtar, the film stars Suhana Khan, Agastya Nanda, Khushi Kapoor, Dot, Mihir Ahuja, Vedang Raina, and Yuvraj Menda in the lead roles. The film follows the complexities of romance, friendship, and the fate of Riverdale. It will be released on December 7, 2023.
Shah Rukh Khan is known as a fantastic co-actor, praised by many who have worked with him. Rajpal Yadav, who shared the screen with SRK in the 2003 film Kal Ho Naa Ho, shared a story about how dedicated and supportive he was. Even for a small scene, they rehearsed together almost 12 times. Yadav fondly recalled these moments while talking to Mashable India about his role as Guru in the film.

He recalled, Shah Rukh Khan was a superstar and I was a beginner. It was my first introduction to him as an actor. If I did 12 rehearsals for that one scene, he responded in all 12 as if he is a beginner. It didnt feel like he was a superstar. Our tuning was very good in that scene.

In the film, Rajpal Yadav portrayed a Mumbai goon who, intending to go on a blind date with Sweetu (Delnaaz), mistakenly ended up at her neighbor Nainas (Preity Zinta) house. Naina was having dinner there with her family and Aman (SRK). During his collaboration with Shah Rukh, Yadav noticed the actors deep passion for his craft. He had that passion in him to do something great. After Kal Ho Naa Ho, Rajpal Yadav worked with SRK in films like Billu, Bhoothnath and Paheli. The actor feels Shah Rukh is yet to deliver his best performance. He said, His films are doing so well but I still feel his best performance is yet to come because he considers his profession his passion, the actor recalled.

Rajpal Yadav has gained immense popularity with his comic roles and has delivered some memorable performances in films like Bhagam Bhag, Hungama, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, De Dana Dan and Khatta Meetha, among many others. Interestingly, his next film Apurva will see him playing a menacing character who abducts a young girl ahead of her wedding.
Agastya Nanda and Suhana Khan are making their debut with The Achies next month. Amitabh Bahchcans grandson and Shah Rukh Khans daughter are also rumoured to be dating. They recently attended the films premiere night. While the soon-to-debut stars were seen putting their best foot forward for the evening, Suhana when sharing the pictures from the evening shared that shes missing her rumoured boyfriend.

The photo from the premiere night featured Suhana along with the other co-stars. Agastya Nanda was missing from the same. Sharing the photo, the young starlet wrote, Missing Archie, Dilly and Moose :). Agastya Nanda plays the role of Archie in the film.

Have a look at the photo:

The 23-year-old, who is set to make her film debut with Zoya Akhtars The Archies, recently spoke at the India Today Conclaves session titled New Kids on the Block: Meet the Gen Z of Bollywood aka The Archies Gang. My biggest source of guidance are my parents and actually, my entire family. I feel like we all chip in and help each other out I ask Mom Was that okay? Is my hair okay? Is my outfit okay?, Suhana said.

The Archies, directed by Zoya Akhtar, is an Indian live-action musical movie based on the popular American comics of the same name. It also marks the acting debut of late star Sridevi and film producer Boney Kapoors daughter Khushi Kapoor (Betty), and megastar Amitabh Bachchans grandson Agastya Nanda (Archie).

The Archies also stars Aditi Saigal (known by her stage name Dot), Vedang Raina, Yuvraj Menda, and Mihir Ahuja. Speaking about the film, Zoya previously said, I am super excited to have the chance to bring The Archies to life. It was a large part of my childhood and teenage years. The characters are iconic and globally loved, which is also why I am a little nervous.

The Archies is slated to release on December 7. The film is skipping the theatre release and will stream on Netflix.
The tenuous truce between Hamas and Israel is shattered. Without either party clearly recognising the right of the other not only to exist but also to occupy part of the disputed holy land. Are we back in a situation of the never-ending war? I alluded to it in my previous column referring to Aldous Huxleys Eyeless in Gaza and to Miltons Samson Agonistes. Huxley, the author of Brave New World, passed away sixty years back on November 22.

Despite its evocative and timely title, Eyeless in Gaza, Huxleys ponderous tome tells us little about the fundamental problems that plague our present times. Although Huxleys most ambitious novel, it seems somewhat disconnected, some might even say incoherent, if not too self-indulgent. Himself going blind like Milton and the Biblical hero Samson, was Huxley also reflecting, like his protagonist, Anthony Beavis, on the futility of human endeavour in an age of great turbulence and uncertainty?

With his most celebrated, futuristic dystopian exploration Brave New World (1932) already behind him, Huxley moved to California in 1937 to escape the impending war in Europe. Having lived through and witnessed the colossal destruction wreaked by the Great War, Huxley had become a conscious pacifist. He veered to the view that the only way the world could be saved is if enough people became enlightened by the practice of self-transformation. How to achieve this? By following what he termed the perennial philosophy, already outlined in the wisdom of the ancient Hindus and Buddhists. Perennial philosophy, we might surmise, is actually Huxleys adaptation of the Hindu idea of Sanatana Dharma.

Huxley, along with many of his friends and fellow intellectuals like Gerald Heard and Christopher Isherwood, became a close associate, if not disciple, of the charismatic Ramakrishna Mission monk, Swami Prabhavananda (1893-1976). Prabhavananda, who moved to the US in 1923, went on to found the Vedanta Society of Southern California, better known as the Hollywood Temple. I have myself had the privilege of giving a talk there on Swami Vivekananda and Universal Religion. Huxley was also a lifelong friend to Jiddu Krishnamurti, who also spent the World War II years in the Ojai mountains near Los Angeles.

To return to Huxleys Eyeless in Gaza, there is not a single reference to being eyeless, let alone to Gaza. Obviously, the title was meant to be symbolic and evocative, rather than accurate or descriptive. Instead, it is to Huxleys later novel, Devils in Loudun (1952), more specifically to its Epilogue, that we must turn. Huxley argues that it is mans deep-seated urge to self- transcendence that explains much of our endeavours. Without understanding or acknowledging this drive, we cannot hope to make sense of our own particular period of history or indeed of history in general, of life as it was lived in the past and as it is lived today.

But, for most part, we humans are unable to take the hard, ascending way, but seek, instead, bogus liberation and grace-substitutes. These include not only alcohol and other intoxicants, but also elementary sexuality. Sadly, these methods of downward self-transcendence are disastrous: what seems a god is actually a devil, what seems a liberation is in fact an enslavement.

But possibly even more dangerous than these is the cult of violence that accompanies crowd-delirium and herd-intoxication. These can easily descend into maniacal violence directed against a targeted group, such as to liquidate an unpopular minority. We have seen this blood lust throughout history, in the repeated genocides against those branded as pagans, heretics, unbelievers, kafirs for whatever reason, groups deemed fit and identified for slaughter. The tragic story of the worldwide persecution of Jews, to which India is a notable exception, reached its frightening and horrifying finale in last centurys Holocaust, which claimed some six million lives.

After the end of World War II and the defeat of Nazi Germany, European anti-Semitism, it would seem, did not end. It was only exported to the Middle East. With the formation of Israel, it was the turn of Arabs and, by extension, of other Muslims, to become the worlds leading Jew haters. Seeking their total extirpation and annihilation, several Arab states fought numerous bloody battles against the fledgling state of Israel. However, Israel has not only survived, but emerged victorious from all these conflicts.

Huxley shows how dangerous herd-poison and crowd-intoxication can be. No wonder, both church and state are hesitant to encourage it lest the monster thus unleashed slips out of control as we have seen in so-called revolutionary movements, whether Marxist or Islamist, all over the world. Crowd frenzy seems an essential component to induce, exploit, and manipulate masses to commit heinous acts that they would otherwise hesitate to embark upon.

Why? Because chaos and violence are the stock in trade of these manipulators, with ideology and theology serving the fuel the fires of hatred and violence. As Huxley observes. No such scruples restrain the revolutionary leader, who hates the status quo and has only one wish  to create a chaos on which, when he comes to power, he may impose a new kind of order he exploits it to the frantic and demoniac limit.

In order to escape from the horrors of insulated selfhood most men and women choose, most of the time, to go neither up nor down, but sideways. Horizontal self-transcendence is the normal bourgeois way of romantic love, marriage, procreation, family, career, money-making, hobbies, social service, philanthropy, and so on. Nothing to be laughed or mocked at because human society and well-being depend on it.

Given that only a few will choose the steep and lonely mountain path to self-realisation, it is our compulsive, even fatal attraction, to the downward paths of self-expansion and transgression that are most dangerous. Of these, the cult of violence and fanatical hatred for the Other, whether in the Hamas-Israel fight or elsewhere, is perhaps the most dangerous and destabilising in our times. All the more reason that Sanatana Dharma, as Huxley believed, is the way to go for humankind.

For it is only the pluralism of Sanatana Dharma which not only offers space to the Other but even goes as far as to assert that, ultimately, there are no Others. There is only the Self. And we are all of us various selves of this Self.

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.
News / National

by Staff reporter

TWO men from Bulawayo have been arrested for allegedly smuggling a Honda Fit through an illegal crossing point in the Nxele area of Plumtree, Matebeleland South province.The duo was granted ZWL$100 000 each by Plumtree magistrate Joshua Nembaware on Wednesday last week.Panashe Mafirovanda Zhou (32) and Andrew Chongono (38) both from Bulawayo were not asked to plead when they appeared in court. The matter was remanded to Friday this week.Prosecutor Selestine Madziwa told the court that on November 3 this year, police details on motorised patrol along the Bulawayo-Plumtree Road received information that the two had smuggled a Botswana-registered vehicle into Zimbabwe.The vehicle was brought to Zimbabwe through an illegal crossing point in Nxele area, Plumtree, before the two affixed Zimbabwean number plates on the vehicle.Madziwa said, acting on the tip-off, the patrol team mounted a roadblock at the 45km peg along Plumtree- Bulawayo Road and intercepted the vehicle which was being driven by Zhou while Chingono was a passenger.The duo allegedly failed to produce documents for the motor vehicle, leading to the arrests.
The Israel-Palestine imbroglio needs an Indian solution. Both sides, Jews and Muslims, have much to learn from Indias successes and mistakes. Without imbibing the Vedantic value of universal humanism, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World Is One Family), there is no escape from the vicious cycle of violence into which the two sides have been plunging headlong with unfailing regularity. The 75-year-long continuum of war-pause-war cant be broken unless there is a paradigmatic shift from the cliched solution of either two states or a bi-national one state.

In 1947, India acquiesced to partition and a two-state solution in order to avoid civil war. Result: We not only had a civil war of holocaust proportions, and a never-ending series of communal riots but also four wars between the two countries which have remained on the brink of yet another, possibly, a nuclear one. Like Pakistan, the proposed Palestinian state would intrinsically be a war state whose ideological raison detre would be the reconquest of Israel, much like Pakistans has been the reconquest of India.

Though partition was forced in the name of two irreconcilable nations in India, one-third of the Muslims of undivided India, about four crore at that time, still remained here. That India didnt become a theocracy a la Pakistan is one side of the story. Another is that it neither became a bi-national state in which Hindus and Muslims shared political power in the name of their respective religions. The new India, a nation-state, belonged to its citizens, individually, and not to their denominational identity. A bi-national state would result in imperium in imperio, a state within a state, which would sanctify the two-nation theory and accord constitutional sanction to competitive communalism.

True, pseudo-secular discourse and vote-bank politics have often compromised the character of the polity, but these efforts have been more underhand than upfront. A bi-national state of Israel-Palestine would compound the problem, much the same as the separate electorate did for India.

The confederacy of religions is a medieval model in which different nationalities lived their separate lives under the suzerainty of an overarching imperial power; where individuals were subsumed in their respective nationalities and had no direct relation with the state. In a modern state, where individuals count, every citizen has a direct relation with the state. If nationality were to be ones primary political affiliation, and relation with the state was to be mediated through it, before long the state would unravel. A bi-national Israel-Palestine state would be the first step towards two mutually hostile states. Therefore, its not a viable solution.

As for the two states, the Muslims said no to it so many times as to render the idea eventually implausible. They said no to the partition plan proposed by the Peel Commission in 1936-37 under which only about 20 per cent of areas were earmarked for the Jewish state. Again, they rejected the UN partition plan of 1947 under which the Jews were to have about 55 per cent of the land. In principle, the Jews were not opposed to a Muslim state in mandatory Palestine. The Muslims, however, wouldnt have a Jewish state in what they considered their country. The result, therefore, was that while the Jews established their state in 1948, the Muslims couldnt establish theirs.

The deeply ingrained Islamic antisemitism wouldnt countenance a Jewish state in their midst. Besides, there were significant structural reasons too. Palestine had never been a state, and Palestinians were not a nation. Therefore, they lacked the political personality necessary for building a state. Under the Ottomans, Palestine was a mere district of their Syrian province. Its distinct political personality emerged only in 1920 with the grant of a mandate to Britain for the area west of River Jordan. The area east of the river  as much Palestine as the area west  was named Transjordan, which was formed into a state under the son of Sharif Hussein of Mecca.

The Muslims said no with such persistence to forming a state until the Jewish one was annihilated that, hurtling through the wars of 1967 and 1973, the areas in which a notionally viable state could be founded, had passed into Israeli occupation. By the time Intifada occurred and the Oslo Agreement led to the formation of the Palestinian Authority, Jewish occupation and settlements had splintered the West Bank into hundreds of non-contiguous enclaves, which couldnt be banded together to build a state with territorial integrity. As is evident, instead of one integrated entity, there would be hundreds of disintegrated Bantustans, wherein each enclave would be state unto itself.

Having seen the unviability of both the conventional solutions, i.e., two-state and binational state models, lets consider an unorthodox, even heretical, model of one state, Israel, where Muslims would live as equal citizens with full civil rights as available in civilised societies of the day.

The biggest hurdle in visualising such a polity is the monotheistic ideological framework to which both the Jews and the Muslims belong. Monotheism does not tolerate difference, diversity and dissent. Thus, the European Christians, belonging to the same Abrahamic tradition, exterminated the native populations of America and Australia. In India, however, despite successive waves of invasions, there have always been adjustments and accommodations. Neither the invaders could think of wiping out the native population nor the natives thought of throwing out the newcomers, no matter whether they were invaders or immigrants. This could be possible only because of the quintessential Indian ethic of coexisting with difference and diversity and recognising all religions to be equally true.

The classical Indian wisdom, pithily summarised in epigrams like sarva dharma sambhav (all religions are the same), ekam sat vipra bahudha vadanti (truth is one, the wise perceive it differently) and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam are emblems of the collective psyche which has gone into shaping the temperament of tolerance, acceptance and coexistence. This, and not constitutional interpolations, underlies Indian secularism.

Until both sides learn from Indian culture, they wont be able to break free from the spiral of violence. Neither Abrahamic monotheism nor Western secularism could show the path. A monotheistic religion regards all other religions as false, and their followers misguided. No wonder Jews and Arab Muslims, both progenies of Abraham, both monotheists, both circumcised, find it impossible to build a shared polity. As for Western secularism, while its true it has helped them curb Christian antisemitism to a great extent, its also true that their current Judeophilia has materialised only after the diaspora vacated Europe to relocate to Palestine.

Therefore, the Indian model in which people of different religions, sometimes with difficult pasts, live together with equal rights in a single polity is the only solution towards which Jews and Muslims are bound to move. One could only wish that they did it before inviting more miseries upon themselves from each others hands.

One thing, however, should remain clear. As in India, any attempt to change the Hindu character of the country would unsettle its secular polity as Indian secularism springs from its Hindu ethos, in Israel, the Jewishness of the state could be challenged only at the cost of a relapse into its racist recess. The state has been formed by the Jews, and levers of power should remain in their hands until they themselves elect Muslims like Britons elected Sunak and Americans elected Obama. Principles of equal rights shouldnt be used to subvert the system which granted it in the first place. In India, using constitutional secularism to promote communalism has had backlash in which there is a lesson for everyone.

When Prophet Muhammad migrated to Medina, he tried to weld the Jews and Muslims into a single polity, Ummat Wahida! The experiment failed. Maybe, its time to revive it.

Ibn Khaldun Bharati is the pen name of a student of Islam who looks at Islamic history from an Indian perspective. He tweets at @IbnKhaldunIndic. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
Whoever comes into the party must understand that this is a crown of thorns (kaanto ka taj hai), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal told party legislators and office-bearers in the party headquarters on the occasion of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkars death anniversary on Wednesday.

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The 11-year-old party has the photographs of Ambedkar and Bhagat Singh prominently displayed in its offices in both Punjab and Delhi. Kejriwal has often spoken about the lives of both in his public speeches and today was another such occasion. The chief minister said, There were two mantras of Babasahebs life  sangharsh and seva. These two apply to us. When we won 67 out of 70 seats, I had thought that now the struggle is over and we can serve people. However, the manner in which they harassed us, did not allow us to work, created so many obstacles, brought one law after another snatching our powers, stripped us of our powersbut we continued to perform. Then, I started thinking that the AAP was born to struggle.

ON THE CRISIS

Kejriwal pointed at the challenging situation that the party finds itself in, with four of its key leaders in jail, the sword hanging on the heads of others and drew parallels with Ambedkars life and the latters refusal to compromise. Today, four of your leaders are in jail. If they were to compromise and join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), they will be out in two days. Look at Manish Sisodia, his son is in Canada and there is no one to take care of his ailing wife. However, he is still behind bars for the past 10 months. If Manish Sisodia were to join hands with the BJP, he would live a good life. Lekin nahi. Babasaheb Ambedkar ke chele hainmar jayenge, kat jayenge, par jhukenge nahi (We are the disciples of Baba Saheb Ambedkar, we will not compromise no matter the price we have to pay).

Kejriwal implied that all it took for AAPs jailed leaders to be quickly out was a compromise with the BJP, however, they refused to do so.

We are here to fight for the country. We will not compromise on our ideals just like Ambedkar never did. We will not compromise the interest of our country. The second is service We must understand that we have been given power to serve the people of the country and understand that arrogance will lead to downfall, the AAP supremo reminded party office-bearers. He also said that despite the many hurdles being created, Delhi would remain an AAP bastion. No one can snatch Delhi from you. They may create obstacles.

                School-Hospital  ,    ,       ,                AAP           pic.twitter.com/1eeFqWn5KL  AAP (@AamAadmiParty) December 6, 2023

PARTIES COPIED OUR GUARANTEES

Claiming that AAP was the only party that had a strong focus on reforming government schools and making quality education accessible to the poor, Kejriwal argued, Look at this even today- all these parties have stolen our agenda. We were the first who told people about Kejriwals guarantee. Now, both parties (the BJP and the Congress) are talking about guarantees ghoshana patra, sankalp patra, manifesto sab gayab guarantee. All are talking about guarantees, all are talking about free electricity etc. however, no one is talking about education. Only the AAP can give a guarantee of education. Why? We are Ambedkars disciples.

ON EDU AGENDA

The AAP supremo also stressed on the humble, non-political roots of many of its leaders beginning with himself and argued that good education was indeed the panacea to get out of poverty. My father, my mother, my grandmother, my grandfather, my aunts and uncles, there is not a single person in politics in my family. Our MLAs have come from ordinary families. We understand the value of education that if one person in family gets good education, it ensures that the family sees better days. And, if children in a family fail to get education, then that family continues to remain poor for generations together.

The chief minister alleged that traditional political parties have knowingly deprived people of good quality education. The more I think about this the more I feel that knowingly, the people of the country were kept uneducated. If within five-seven years, the AAP government in Delhi can give good quality education to 2 crore people, then, in 75 years, could 140 crore people not have been given good education?

Kejriwal also dwelled on the life of Dr B R Ambedkar beginning with the latters childhood days on how he had to battle both poverty and untouchability and the emphasis Ambedkar lay on good education. He said, it is our countrys misfortune that he left us early. If he had lived for another 10 to 15 years, I believe , he would have reformed all government schools in his lifetime. In the past 75 years, all these parties destroyed government schools. Education is not part of their agenda. No party wants that the children of the poor should get good education. The independence struggle gave birth to many stalwarts. Yet ,it was only Ambedkar who gave so much priority to education because he had gone through that experience.

ALSO READ | Expected AAP-set: Arvind Kejriwals Party Fails to Open Account in MP, Raj, Chhattisgarh

AAP minister Raaj Kumar Anand, former minister Rajendra Pal Gautam, MLAs Vishesh Ravi, Kuldeep Kumar, incidentally all belonging to the Dalit community, along with RS MP Sandeep Pathak, MLA Dilip Pandey along with other office-bearers and workers were present in the party office.

In the 2020 Delhi Assembly elections, the AAP had won all 12 seats reserved for SC candidates. In fact, in 2013 , the first election that AAP contested in Delhi, it had won 9 of the 12 seats reserved for SC, with the Dalit voters shifting away from both the Congress and the BSP. With time, that trend has only become stronger.
The meeting of INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) bloc to chalk out Opposition strategy for the 2024 Lok Sabha strategy will be held on December 17. The leaders, however, will continue to meet informally till then.

While RJD president Lalu Prasad, who is a close to the Congress leadership, made the announcement for deferred the meeting, sources said that December 6 will see a gathering of parliamentary leaders of INDIA bloc. Those leaders who are unavailable, can send representatives of the parties, sources added.

The meeting, scheduled to be held at 6pm, will decide the place for the next meet. According to sources, the Congress leaders have been calling the December 6 gathering as informal meeting.

Sources in the Aam Aadmi Party said that MP Raghav Chadha would attend the meeting on Arvind Kejriwals behalf.

Several leaders, including Mamata Banerjee, MK Stalin, Nitish Kumar and Akhilesh Yadav, expressed their inability to attend the meeting on Wednesday.

The Congress is under fire from its allies for ignoring them during the crucial assembly elections, in which the grand old party was defeated in three Hindi heartland states.

Many leaders have reportedly gone on record to say that the Congress made a mistake by failing to take on board regional parties and trying to fight the BJP on its own.

BJP vs Opposition on Poll Results

Meanwhile, BJP leaders mocked Opposition leaders after they raised questions on EVMs post poll results in five states.

As the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged victorious in three Hindi heartland states  Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh  in the recent round of Assembly polls, several opposition leaders raised questions over electronic voting machines, even as some said they had faith in the EVMs.

Union Rural Development Minister Giriraj Singh slammed the opposition and said they blame EVMs whenever they fail to win elections. There is nothing new. The opposition, whoever it may be, when they win, they are fine with the EVMs, but when they lose, they blame it on the EVMs, he said.

Another BJP leader, S P Singh Baghel, said, With these EVMs, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) won elections in Delhi thrice and in Punjab once, the Samajwadi Party (SP) got an absolute majority (in Uttar Pradesh) in 2012, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) got an absolute majority (in Uttar Pradesh) in 2007 and the Congress won Telangana. He used an idiom  Naach na jane angan tedha (a bad workman blames his tools)  to explain the situation. Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) MP Chirag Paswan said the opposition is being repetitive.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Saugata Roy said there are concerns that should be addressed. Our party has not taken a decision on this but there are, obviously, questions. Many opposition parties have raised the question that EVMs can be manipulated by telephone. Also, an Israeli technology has come into question in this matter. The government has taken a pro-Israel stand in the recent conflict (between Israel and Hamas). This needs to be looked into thoroughly, Roy said.

The results in several states were very surprising and led to the doubt about EVM functioning, he added. BSP MP Danish Ali said he has always been against EVMs.

Questions on EVMs are being raised for long. It was questioned by the BJPs Lal Krishna Advani. BJPs Rajya Sabha MP G V L Narasimha Rao has written a book on it, he said. Even when I was elected as an MP, I had said I will continue protesting against EVMs. Winning or losing is another issue, but even developed countries have stopped using EVMs. People do not have faith. Why not use ballot paper? he asked.

Communist Party of India (CPI) MP Binoy Viswam said it is a serious matter to ponder over. The confidence over EVMs is diminishing. More and more people are believing that EVMs are doing mischief in elections, he said.
The Maha Vikas Aghadi, which is the alliance of opposition parties in Maharashtra, boycotted the tea party of the Eknath Shinde government on Wednesday evening ahead of the winter session of the assembly starting from December 7 in Nagpur. The leader of the opposition in the lower house of the assembly, Vijay Wadettiwar told the media: The reason to boycott this customary tea party of the state government is its failure to resolve the issue of farmers who are still in distress and, instead of showing solidarity with them, this government is having this tea party. Hence we have decided not to be part of such a party.

In the press conference, Wadettiwar tried to corner the state government for allegedly failing to maintain law and order, having a very negative approach towards the backward classes, unemployment, and deaths in government hospitals. It seems that this government has failed on all fronts. Despite having all these issues in the state, this government still preferred to hold the tea party, which again shows that they are not at all sensitive towards these issues, he said.

Based on available data from the central government, Wadettiwar told reporters that last year approximately 6,218 instances of violence were recorded in the state. This shows that after the Mahayuti government came to power, incidents of violence and crime were on the rise, he said. The state of Maharashtra which is known as a progressive state that has the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj, Shahuji Maharaj, Jyotiba Phule, and Babasaheb Ambedkar is now on the verge of losing its old identity. If the number of crime cases is rising and more than 8,000 violence cases are getting recorded in the state in just one year then how will investments come to the state? NCRB records highlight that cases of suicides are also rising. In just one year, 22,746 suicide cases were recorded in the state. The same record also shows that Maharashtra is in third position in murder cases, 4th position in cases of rape, and 4th position in cybercrimes. Instead of addressing these issues, the state government is indulging in organising programmes like government at your doorstep and spending a large amount on those programmes.

Wadettiwar also targeted the government over the issue of the Maratha reservation and for hurting the sentiments of OBCs. Wadettiwar alleges that the stand taken by this government has not only hurt Marathas but also OBCs by proposing that all Marathas should get Kunti certificates and get reservations via the OBC route.
Floor leaders of 17 parties of the INDIA opposition bloc on Wednesday met at the residence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and discussed steps to improve coordination in Parliament to take on the BJP.

In the meeting, a decision regarding the senior leaderships was taken, the date of which will be announced in a day or two.

Several parties including AAP, Left, IUML raised concerns regarding the long gap in meeting and added that such long gaps should be avoided.

Following the meet, Kharge assured that there will be regular meeting from now on and the gap was due to the elections in 5 states and unavailability of some leaders. He further informed the MPs that all differences should be sorted out and unity should be ensured

Amidst the meeting, some parties also expressed lack of confidence due to the loss of Congress in 3 states. They also advised the need to have confidence building measures in place in order to have discussions on seat sharing and regular meeting.

It was also decided that parties will be against the Criminal Code bill at the Parliament.

Taking to X, Kharge said that a parliamentary strategy meeting of like-minded parties of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha floor leaders was held at 10 Rajaji Marg.

We will take up issues of the people in the Parliament in the remaining part of this session to make the government accountable. A date for meeting of INDIA parties will soon be fixed, in consultation with the leaders of all parties. Judega Bharat, Jeetega INDIA, he said on X.

The Congress president had invited the leaders over dinner. Another meeting would be held in the third week of December that will be attended by top leaders including some chief ministers from the opposition parties.

Among Congress leaders present at Kharges residence were its leader in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and deputy leader in Rajya Sabha Pramod Tiwari. General secretaries K C Venugopal and Jairam Ramesh were also a part of the meet.

The opposition leaders present at the meeting included Mahua Majhi of JMM, Vaiko of MDMK, N K Premchandran (RSP), Binoy Viswam (CPI), Lalan Singh of JDU, Ram Gopal Yadav and ST Hasan of SP, Jayant Chaudhary of RLD.

Besides, Vandana Chavan of NCP, Raghav Chadha of AAP, Tiruchi Siva of DMK and Congress leaders Gaurav Gogoi, Naseer Hussain and Rajani Patil were also present at the meeting that started around 7 PM and continued for an hour.

Elamaram Kareem (CPI-M), Faiyaz Ahmad (RJD), Jose K Mani of Kerala Congress (M), Javed Ali Khan (SP), TR Baalu (DMK), Hasnain Masoodi (NC) and Mohd Basheer (IUML) also attended the meeting.

Talking about the meeting, Congress leader Naseer Hussain said that it was a meeting of floor leaders of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha belonging to INDIA bloc constituents.

The meeting is held every day in the morning but could not take place today, so this meeting was planned at Kharges residence in the evening, he added.

Hussain further said that the meeting was presided over by LoP Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, where a number of issues of Parliament and upcoming bills were discussed.

When asked about the absence of TMC and Shiv Sena, Hussain said they had already informed that they would not be able to attend. He also said that it happens daily that some parties are not able to participate due to some compulsion.

Party sources said that TMC supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to attend the meeting of opposition parties in the third week of December.

About 26 parties came together as part of the INDIA bloc to take on the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections. So far they have held three rounds of deliberations in Patna, Bengaluru and Mumbai.

Sources said the opposition leaders would now plan joint rallies that were put on hold due to the assembly elections. One such rally planned in the first week of October in Bhopal was cancelled at the last moment.

(with PTI inputs)
Although all parties are gearing up for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, if you visit any party headquarters in Maharashtra, you will easily find a corporator lobbying with senior leaders for a civic election ticket.

Meanwhile, the civic body elections, which have been due for more than two years, are unlikely to be held before 2025. Till then, the administrators will continue to rule the civic corporations.

WHY 2025?

Its been more than two years that the elections to the 27 corporations are pending. The year 2024, too, will disappoint them as the general elections are likely in May, which may defer their polls.

A few months after the Lok Sabha elections, Maharashtra will face the assembly elections, likely in the October-December period. Ahead of the state polls, the alliances could change, leaving the corporation aspirants in uncertainty.

BEST OUT OF WORST

Even though the scenario is against democracy, it is a golden opportunity for officers who really want to bring about a change in the city where they work, without the pressure from corporators.

People usually cast votes on the basis of the work done by a corporator. So, corporators always try to implement new schemes in their wards and get more funds for it.

This popular anecdote from the civic circles explains the pressure much better. A few MLAs of the same region met a Chief Minister once and sought funds for development of the region. Coincidentally, the CM was also from the same region. The CM told them that if he agreed to their demand, the opposition would accuse him of favouritism towards people from his region. So he suggested that the MLAs hold protests against him, alleging the CM wasnt releasing funds for his own region. After the stir, the CM immediately signed the file and released the funds.

This is how the pressure tactics work even on the local level.

DELAY NOT HEALTHY

Generally, every four-five years, all parties get a new batch of fresh leaders. Corporation or zilla parishad or local self-body elections are seen as incubation centres for these young leaders, where they learn the basics. If a new batch doesnt come in four-five years, it could have a long-lasting effect on state politics.

While people in power are pointing fingers at the courts, where the quota issue is pending, the Opposition parties blame the state government. The voters, meanwhile, remain clueless and continue to be ruled by administrators, which is not a good sign for democracy.
The Taiwan Excellence Awards recently unveiled its list of winners, showcasing the outstanding achievements of 182 companies and 320 products. This prestigious award reflects the commitment of Taiwans industrial landscape to cutting-edge innovation and technological advancement. The award-winning products not only leverage emerging technologies, but also prioritize energy conservation, carbon reduction, and the pursuit of a sustainable future.

Known as the Oscars of Taiwans industry, the Taiwan Excellence Awards are organized by the International Trade Administration of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and implemented by the Foreign Trade Association. This 32nd year marked a significant shift as the awards adopted the slogan, Promote Taiwans Excellence and Leap to the World Stage. A record-breaking 469 companies submitted 948 products for consideration, emphasizing the growing importance of Taiwans industrial prowess on the global stage.

To ensure a rigorous selection process, an on-site product evaluation took place at Hall 2 of the Nangang Exhibition Hall in September. Products spanning diverse industries, from electric buses to portable water purifiers, underwent scrutiny to demonstrate the adaptability and competitiveness of Taiwanese industry players in addressing evolving trends and diverse user needs. Over 140 domestic experts and scholars from various fields were invited by the Ministry of Economic Affairs to conduct a thorough selection process. Award-winning products distinguished themselves in the crucial aspects of research and development, design, quality, and marketing. The integration of software and hardware emerged as a prominent trend across various fields, with a particular focus on keywords such as artificial intelligence (AI), intelligence, energy saving, carbon reduction, and green sustainability.

The breakdown of industry categories among the award-winning products provides insights into Taiwans industrial structure and competitiveness. Information and communications claimed the lions share at 38%, followed by machinery and components (18%), transportation equipment (14%), and household equipment, hardware, and building materials (10%). This distribution not only reflects the nations industrial landscape but also mirrors the demand for smart mobility post-pandemic.

Among the remarkable award-winning products are those that blend traditional elements with modern technology. Examples include picture frames combining display panels and AI technology, creating highly realistic and immersive artworks. Additionally, innovations in electric vehicles, smart cockpits, e-paper retail logistics systems, and advancements in medical equipment entering homes for mobile telemedicine highlight the R&D and innovation spirit of Taiwanese enterprises.

Winning the Taiwan Premium Award serves as a benchmark for excellence in Taiwans industry. Recognized products receive the Taiwan Premium logo, allowing them to participate in the Ministry of Economic Affairs Taiwan Industry Image Publicity Project and other domestic and international promotional activities. This exposure enhances brand awareness, visibility, and business opportunities for the awarded products. As the spotlight intensifies on the 30 products shortlisted for the gold and silver awards, December will see foreign experts and domestic committee members selecting the ultimate winners. Presentations by shortlisted companies will culminate in an awards ceremony at the Nangang Exhibition Hall on December 6, celebrating the gold and silver award recipients and reinforcing Taiwans commitment to R&D and innovation.

This 32nd Taiwan Excellence Awards not only recognized exemplary achievements, but also showcased the resilience and forward-thinking spirit of Taiwans industrial landscape. The diverse array of innovative products, from AI-infused artwork to cutting-edge transportation solutions, highlights the nations commitment to staying at the forefront of global technological advancements.

Click to know more  https://www.taiwanexcellence.org/en

This is a Partnered Post.
Apple has been working on its own 5G modem for iPhones which was supposed to be launched in the coming years. But a recent development involving a deal with Qualcomm suggested the plans have changed. And now, a new report hints that Apple may have actually stopped work on the 5G modem, instead it is ready to make a 6G modem for iPhones.

It is interesting to see the focus change from 5G to 6G but that could also be possible because Apple already has a strong deal with Qualcomm that continues to provide its 5G modems for the iPhones, which makes it a win-win situation for both the companies. So, it kind of makes sense for the Cupertino-based giant to build for the future, which comes in the form of 6G networks.

The Bloomberg report mentions that Apple has been working on the 6G modem since 2021 and it wants to be ready when the network rolls out, which is estimated for sometime around 2030. The report says Apple has started extensive ground work and research on 6G technology which allows the company to have a head start by the time 6G networks go public, and enable Apple to offset the higher costs of dealing with companies like Qualcomm for modems.

Apple has managed to upstage other chip makers with its high-performance M-series silicone that is available with Macs, iPads and more.

But developing a modem is a different ball game and the company clearly realises the task on its hands to make the 6G modem, which explains its supposed planning almost 2 years back. Countries like India have also started planning for 6G networks, which as per the countrys regime, should be rolling out by 2030. We are still waiting to see the true potential of 5G networks but excitement is already building up for 6G now that Apple has entered the scene.
Luxury isnt the same for everyone. For some, the epitome of luxury is indulging in a haircut at a high-end salon, spending no less than three figures. On the contrary, others find luxury in the simplicity of being able to get a haircut for a mere Rs. 100. The financial landscape, ever so unique to each individual, shapes our perception of extravagance, proving that one size doesnt fit all. This realization came to light when a user on the micro-blogging site X advocated for supporting roadside barbers over big salons to stimulate the economy. However, this sparked a flurry of mixed opinions from individuals hailing from diverse backgrounds, not merely due to a reluctance to support small entrepreneurs, but to emphasise the importance of maintaining a balance between the two.

The discussion unfolded when Shubho Sengupta shared a picture of a roadside barber in Delhi with the caption, Rohtas Singh charges Rs 50 for a haircut, at a pavement shop in GK2 M Block Market in South Delhi. His competition at the same market  Tony&Guy, Truefitt&Hill, Gitanjali, etc charge Rs 700 to Rs 2000. I have been to all places and can tell you with authority they all offer the same quality. Support small entrepreneurs, they may not be CEOs on LinkedIn, but they are the ones who pull the economy up.

Also Read: Why Barbers Are Important? IG Video Inspired by Nai Ka Maqbara Near Humayuns Tomb Stirs Nostalgia

He even shared Singhs contact number to extend a helping hand.

Rohtas Singh charges Rs 50 for a haircut, at a pavement shop in GK2 M Block Market in South Delhi. His competition at the same market  Tony&Guy, Truefitt&Hill, Gitanjali, etc charge Rs 700 to Rs 2000.I have been to all places and can tell you with authority they all offer the pic.twitter.com/smQiKbNCnT shubho sengupta (@shubhos) December 5, 2023

The post gained traction, drawing diverse reactions. One user criticised the idea, stating, You are basically rewarding squatting on government property and evasion of GST and taxes. On a public forum. Wah. Another defended high-end salons, saying, Tony and guy not only give just a haircut but a complete luxurious experience. They have salon in most expensive malls , they pay heft rents, clean hygienic shops, well mannered staff who have good hygiene and doesnt smell like pan masala.

You are basically rewarding squatting on government property and evasion of GST and taxes. On a public forum. Wah. Kay (@keshav555) December 5, 2023

So basically youre saying its better to patronize folks setting up shops illegally on the footpaths than to go to salons that have legally acquired space, equipment and skilled staff Farhad Tarapore (@farhad_tarapore) December 5, 2023

Tony and guy not only give just a haircut but a complete luxurious experience. They have salon in most expensive malls , they pay heft rents, clean hygienic shops, well mannered staff who have good hygiene and doesnt smell like pan masala Aakash (@aakash_rewari) December 5, 2023

A third user succinctly summed up the debate, Support small businesses- yes. Support businesses being run illegally on encroached lands/footpaths without paying taxes- No.

Also Read: Barber Calmly Giving Haircut To Child With Special Needs Deserves Applause

In the midst of the clash, there were those who stood in solidarity with the OP. Well said. The backbone of thriving economies isnt celebrities but the small biz owners grinding daily. Support them and lift your community, too, chimed in one supporter, while another affirmed, Good message. I always get my haircut and moustache trimmed at local roadside shops.

Well said. The backbone of thriving economies isnt celebrities but the small biz owners grinding daily. Support them and lift your community, too. Abhinav Kumar (@singhabhinav) December 5, 2023

All in all, the debate revolved around the perceived flaw in comparing these establishments, given the inherent differences in the services they offer.
We all have a dream job and to get it we have to work hard from getting into a prestigious college to gaining our degree to the interview process. But a woman from Slovakia is living her dream with no degree. Diana Takacsova could not have envisaged that a well-paid career was ahead of her after growing up with some financial crunch.

The 34-year-old woman, living in St Albans, is now living her dream job of working as a fuel tank driver for Hoye, a firm that specialises in bulk logistics for the chemical, petroleum, food and gas industries.

Dianas basic salary is under 55,000 (Rs 57.80 lakh) per year, which also includes a London allowance as she is based in Hemel Hempstead. Along with this, there is the potential to earn up to 2,000 (Rs 2.10 lakh) per year in bonuses and the opportunities to work overtime.

Diana grew up in a small village in Slovakia with her mother, father and older brother. Speaking with The Sun, she revealed that she had a very happy childhood but they never had much money. Her parents were inclined to live from one paycheque to another. She shared that her family didnt have much money to enjoy luxuries and if they went on holiday, it was maybe once a year.

From the age of 14, Diana did various part-time jobs at the weekends and holidays which included selling ice cream, working on a shop floor and helping out in the local farms. As she spent a lot of time on farms helping, she was very used to big machinery. I remember as a relatively little girl thinking: I love driving. My interest in trucks and big vehicles just grew from there, she said.

Diana stayed at school until she was around 19 and even managed to gain the equivalent of two A-levels. She got pregnant at the age of 21 and welcomed her son in 2010. This meant that she couldnt go to university for further studies. After a tough period in her life, Diana moved to the UK in 2014. Having split from her husband, her son remained in Slovakia. Two weeks after arriving, Diana bagged a job driving a forklift truck at Circle Express, a haulage company next to Heathrow Airport.

I had my National Insurance number, forklift license, and the relevant paperwork in place, she said. Diana was promoted to supervisor within six months and after around two years in that job; Diana did a stint in an office role at the company, but found that wasnt for her.

After passing her Class 2 driving license and CPC license, Diana got another job at a haulage company, Mixed Freight Services. While working for three years in the role, her company gave her through Class 1 licence for articulated vehicles. She later joined Hoyer with the various qualifications she needed which were her ADR in Class 3 fuel tankers, and PDP (Petroleum driver passport).

I now spend my working week delivering much-needed fuel across the south-east of England. Its a job that I love, she said. Diana also shared that truck driving is a hard job and lots of people give up along the way, but the best candidates tend to be those with a can-do attitude.

Diana expressed that she wants women to know that they can make it in a role such as her which is traditionally male-dominated. Diana is an ambassador for Generation Logistics, an awareness campaign for the logistics sector.
News / National

by Staff reporter

The Zanu-PF Mashonaland East provincial leadership has prohibited former Public Service minister Petronella Kagonye from carrying out party activities following her release from prison.Kagonye was jailed in June last year for converting laptops donated by the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe to personal use during her time in office.Upon her release from prison, Kagonye announced that she had resumed her role as the provincial women's league secretary for administration.According to a prohibition order dated November 28, signed by provincial disciplinary committee chairperson Kudzai Majuru, the former Goromonzi South legislator remains barred from carrying out party activities pending a disciplinary hearing set for December 19."Please take note that the Zanu-PF Mashonaland East province executive council has decided on the 19th of November 2023 to invoke chapter 5 Article Section 528 of the Zanu-PF Constitution 2022 against your conduct," the prohibition order read."As such, you are hereby barred from visiting party offices for the purpose of attending any or carrying out such for and on behalf of the party."This also prohibits you from holding any party or attending any party meeting until finalisation of the matter against you. The hearing has been pencilled for the 19th of December 2023."Kagonye was sentenced to three years in jail, but 12 months were suspended on condition of good behaviour.A further eight months were suspended on condition that she reimburses Potraz US$10 000, leaving her with an effective 16-month jail term.She was confined to Chikurubhi Female Prison and launched several bids at the High Court to have her sentence reversed.
A womans vacation in the Bahamas turned fatal when she died of injuries caused by a shark attack. The Boston native got married on the tropical island on Sunday and passed away a day later on Monday. The incident occurred when the victim was paddle boarding with a relative near Sandals Resort on Cable Beach where she was staying. The relative who was with her is safe. It is unclear what type of shark attacked her. The woman had sustained serious injuries to the right side of her body, and she died at the scene despite getting CPR. As per The Independent, both the paddle boarders were rescued by a lifeguard on a boat.

Shortly after 11.15 am, police were notified that a female visitor from Boston, Massachusetts, USA, was subsequently attacked by a shark. According to initial reports, the female  along with a male relative  were paddleboarding just at the rear of a resort in western Providence, some 3/4 miles out from the shoreline, when she was bitten by the shark, the Royal Bahamas Police Force said in a media statement.

Sandals Resorts also released a statement and said, We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of a guest while on a paddleboarding activity nearly a mile from the shore. We wish to express our heartfelt condolences to the guests family and loved ones. We remain in close contact with them and are providing all support possible during this difficult time.

This is not the first time that a shark has fatally attacked a tourist in the Bahamas. In September 2022, CBS reported that a 58-year-old woman from Pennsylvania died after she was attacked by a bull shark during snorkeling. The tourist was a passenger on the Harmony of the Seas cruise ship and was taking part in a snorkeling excursion at a popular spot near Green Cay.

Dr. Greg Skomal, a shark expert with the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, told WCVB-TV, The Bahamas has proclaimed its waters a shark sanctuary. Theyve made it illegal to kill sharks, and thats great and good for the environment, but led to a large number of sharks in the water, and over the course of the last couple of decades, weve seen more people in the water. Youve got people overlapping with sharks; those kinds of overlaps can lead to these kinds of events.
Italy formally withdrew from the Chinese Belt and Road Infrastructure initiative (BRI), almost four years after becoming the only nation among the G7 countries to sign up for the project, government officials familiar with the developments told news agency AFP.

Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera in a separate report said that Rome conveyed the decision to counterparts in Beijing three days ago but there has been no official statement from either side.

ALSO READ | Italy May Exit Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, Day After Signing India-Middle East-Europe Infra Deal

It should be noted that Italy in September, during the New Delhi G20 Summit, became one of the signatory countries in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEE EC) and signed the memorandum of understanding on Day 1 of the summit.

Officials told the news agency that Italy pulled out of the BRI in such a manner that kept channels of political dialogue open, without giving much detail. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, before being elected to her current role, lamented that the decision to join the BRI by the previous government led by Giuseppe Conte in 2019 was a serious mistake.

ALSO READ | Wicked Scheme: Italian Defence Minister Laments Nation Joining Xis BRI Project

Critics of the BRI say the trillion-dollar investment scheme could be a predatory Trojan horse aimed at buying political influence. Italian foreign minister Antonio Tajani said in September that membership has not produced the results we were hoping for.

Even as China has spent millions of dollars into infrastructure projects in Papua New Guinea, Kenya, Sri Lanka, along West Africa and provide telecom infrastructure for Latin Americans and southeast Asians, experts also see the BRI as a tool for spreading Chinese influence across the world.

The BRI deal was due for automatic renewal in March 2024 unless Italy opted out by the end of this year.

Guido Crosetto, speaking to Italian news media outlet Corriere della Sera in July, said the decision to join the BRI was wicked and it has failed to help the countrys exports.

The choice to join the Silk Road was an improvised and wicked act, made by the government of Giuseppe Conte, which led to a double negative result, Crosetto said earlier this year.

But Rome has exercised caution in order to not provoke Beijing and risk retaliation against Italian companies operating in China. Meloni told reporters during the G20 Summit in New Delhi that if Italy leaves the project, it would do so in a manner that would not compromise relations with China.
Europe faces a huge risk of terrorist attacks over the Christmas holiday period due to the fallout from the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, the European Unions home affairs commissioner warned Tuesday.

The warning came as French investigators probe a fatal weekend attack near the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Questions were raised about the mental health of the suspect, who swore allegiance to the extremist Islamic State group before stabbing a tourist to death and injuring two other people with a hammer.

With the war between Israel and Hamas, and the polarisation it causes in our society, with the upcoming holiday season, there is a huge risk of terrorist attacks in the European Union, EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson told reporters.

We saw (it happening) recently in Paris, unfortunately we have seen it earlier as well, she said, as EU interior ministers gathered in Brussels. She provided no details about any police or security information that might have led to her warning.

The fallout from Hamas attacks in southern Israel on Oct. 7, which killed about 1,200 people, and the ongoing Israeli military response that health officials in Gaza say has killed at least 15,890 Palestinians, has spread to Europe.

In several European capitals in recent weeks, tens of thousands of people have staged pro-Palestinian rallies and also marched in support of Israel and against rising antisemitism.

Pressed repeatedly by reporters after the meeting, Johansson said that she drew the threat conclusion herself based on the high security levels in some of the 27 EU member countries and an increase in reports of antisemitic incidents, as well as more hate speech and extremist content online.

Taking all this together, I do the assessment that yes, the threat is significant, she said. She declined to offer any security advice to shoppers over the festive season or people going to Christmas markets, saying that this was the responsibility of national governments.

Johansson, whose brief includes security and immigration, said the European Commission will provide an additional 30 million euros ($32.5 million) to bolster security in vulnerable areas, notably places of worship.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser sent her condolences to France over the weekend attack and said it highlights just how acute and how serious the threat posed by Islamist terrorism is currently in the EU.

The war in Gaza and Hamas terror are exacerbating this situation, she told reporters.

Faeser said she had spoken with her counterparts from Austria, Belgium, France, Spain and Sweden about the risks.

Our security agencies are working very closely together. We must keep a particularly close eye on the Islamist threats right now and take action against Islamist propaganda together with neighbouring countries, she said.

A 15-year-old boy and an alleged accomplice were accused last week of plotting to blow up a small truck at a Christmas market in the west of Germany in an attack modelled on the methods of the Islamic State group, prosecutors said.
The United States has barred visas for extremist Israeli settlers responsible for violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. Tuesdays move comes just a month after Israel was granted entry into the Visa Waiver Program, which allows its citizens visa-free entry into the US.

Those targeted will not be eligible for the program, and those who hold current US visas will have them revoked. The visa measures also amount to a rare repercussion by the United States against Israelis in the nearly two-month-old war, in which President Joe Biden has nudged the American ally privately but also announced strong public support.

We have underscored to the Israeli government the need to do more to hold accountable extremist settlers who have committed violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. As President Biden has repeatedly said, those attacks are unacceptable, he said.

The United States will pursue visa restrictions against individuals involved in or meaningfully contributing to the undermining of peace, security, or stability in the West Bank. pic.twitter.com/OMtgrmpEoS Matthew Miller (@StateDeptSpox) December 5, 2023

Blinken said the United States would refuse entry to anyone involved in undermining peace, security or stability in the West Bank or who takes actions that unduly restrict civilians access to essential services and basic necessities. Instability in the West Bank both harms the Israeli and Palestinian people and threatens Israels national security interests. Those responsible for it must be held accountable, Blinken said.

The Palestinian Authority holds limited autonomy in the West Bank where Palestinians have complained of impunity over attacks and harassment carried out by settlers, some of whom have been serving in the Israeli military. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said that dozens of settlers, who were not publicly named, would be affected. The visa ban also applies to their immediate family members but restrictions will not apply to extremist settlers who are US citizens. Even though Hamas does not control the West Bank, some 250 Palestinians are said to have been killed there.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in a coalition with far-right parties that strongly support Jewish settlement of lands seized in 1967, construction that is considered illegal under international law. This latest move points that the Biden administration has returned to the traditional US and international position of opposing settlements, although until now its stance has largely been rhetorical. Previous president Donald Trump switched course, with Blinkens predecessor Mike Pompeo dropping objections to settlements and visiting one late in his term.

(With agency inputs)
Israels military attacked southern Gazas main city in what was the fiercest fighting since it began its military campaign to eliminate Hamas five weeks ago. Backed by warplanes, Israeli forces on Tuesday reached the heart of Khan Younis in southern Gaza and also surrounded the city.

The IDF has been operating in Hamas strongholds in the areas of Jabaliya, Shujaiyya and Khan Yunis, destroying terrorist infrastructure and eliminating Hamas terrorists. In addition, our forces gained control of central Hamas positions in Jabaliya over the past day, as well as located weapons and terrorist infrastructure, some of which was found in civilian buildings, including a school, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said in a post on X on Tuesday.

The IDF has been operating in Hamas strongholds in the areas of Jabaliya, Shujaiyya and Khan Yunis, destroying terrorist infrastructure and eliminating Hamas terrorists.In addition, our forces gained control of central Hamas positions in Jabaliya over the past day, as well as pic.twitter.com/Sm4NB6yP2X  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) December 5, 2023

Most intense day

Hamas armed wing, the al Qassam Brigades, said its fighters engaged in violent clashes with Israelis. We are in the most intense day since the beginning of the ground operation, the commander of the Israeli militarys Southern Command, General Yaron Finkelman, said in a statement. They were also the most pitched battles since a truce between Israel and Hamas collapsed last week. Israeli forces also fought in Jabalia, a large urban refugee camp and Hamas hotbed in northern Gaza next to Gaza City, and in Shujaiyya, east of the city, Finkelman said.

Hamas armed wing said it killed or wounded eight Israeli troops and destroyed 24 military vehicles on Tuesday. An Israeli military website listed two troop deaths for Tuesday and 83 since the ground operation began. Gaza health officials said many civilians were killed in an Israeli strike on houses in Deir al-Balah, north of Khan Younis. Dr Eyad Al-Jabri, head of the Shuhada Al-Aqsa Hospital there, told Reuters at least 45 were killed.

I want my mum, I want my mum

Since the truce collapsed, Israel has been posting an online map to tell Gazans which parts of the enclave to evacuate to avoid attacks. Khan Younis eastern quarter was marked on Monday, home to hundreds of thousands of people, many of whom took flight on foot. Gazans say there is no safe place, with remaining towns and shelters already overwhelmed, and Israel continuing to bomb the areas where it is telling people to go.

An agency report said that inside a ward, almost every inch of blood-splattered floor space was taken up by the wounded including small children, with medics hurrying from patient to patient while relatives wailed. Two girls were being treated, still covered in dust from the collapse of the house that had buried their family. My parents are under the rubble, sobbed one, according to Reuters. I want my mum, I want my mum, I want my family.

Amid continued international criticism of Gazas plight, the United States, Israels close ally, reiterated on Tuesday that Israel needed to do more to allow fuel and other aid into Gaza and reduce harm to civilians. Despite the mounting death toll, it said Israel was now showing some receptiveness to the calls. The level of assistance thats getting in is not sufficient, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said at a press briefing. It needs to go up, and weve made that clear to the government of Israel.

Limited UN aid

The United Nations has said limited humanitarian aid is being delivered only to the Rafah region in southern Gaza because of intense hostilities. It also says that all telecom services have shut down due to cuts in the main fiber routes. On Tuesday, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said that only 100 aid trucks with humanitarian supplies and 69,000 liters of fuel entered Gaza from Egypt on Monday, about the same amount as Sunday. That is well below the daily average of 170 trucks and 110,000 liters of fuel that entered Gaza during the humanitarian pause from Nov. 24-30, he said.

Dujarric quoted Lynn Hastings, the UN humanitarian coordinator in the Palestinian territories, saying shelters have no capacity, the health system is on its knees, and there is a lack of clean drinking water, no proper sanitation and poor nutrition. He reiterated that there are no safe places in Gaza and that those places that fly the UN flag are not safe either.

We have said it repeatedly. We are saying it again. No place is safe in #Gaza.The level of human suffering is intolerable. The resumption of the military operation and its expansion further in southern #Gaza is repeating horrors from past weeks. pic.twitter.com/r3trrj6XqF  UNRWA (@UNRWA) December 5, 2023

Netanyahu, Biden speak out about rape allegations

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Tuesday that Hamas had repeatedly raped women and mutilated their bodies during its Oct.7 assault on southern Israel, citing survivors and witnesses of the attacks. It is appalling, he told a political fundraiser in Boston. In Jerusalem, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cited the claims of rape and other abuse in a meeting with families of returned hostages on Tuesday that some participants described as angry because of frustration over the governments handling of the situation.

I heard stories that broke my heart I heard and you also heard, about sexual assault and cases of brutal rape unlike anything, Netanyahu said at a news conference. Israel says several women and children remain in Hamas hands. During the pause in fighting, Hamas returned more than 100 hostages while 138 captives remain. Biden blamed Hamas for the collapse of the truce last week, saying the militant groups refusal to release the remaining young women is what broke this deal.

READ MORE: In a Rare Action Against Israel, US Restricts Visas for Extremist West Bank Settlers

Travel Ban

Israel and Hamas have accused each other of wrecking negotiations. Hamas official Osama Hamdan said on Tuesday there would be no more captive releases until Israels aggression stops. Separately, the U.S. imposed visa bans on people involved in violence in the Israeli-occupied West Bank after appeals for Israel to do more to prevent attacks on Palestinians by Jewish settlers.

We have underscored to the Israeli government the need to do more to hold accountable extremist settlers who have committed violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. As President Biden has repeatedly said, those attacks are unacceptable, he said. Blinken said the US would refuse entry to anyone involved in undermining peace, security or stability in the West Bank. Instability in the West Bank both harms the Israeli and Palestinian people and threatens Israels national security interests. Those responsible for it must be held accountable, Blinken said.

(With agency inputs)
As many as 10 people have been detained in Nepal by the police, who are accused of charging unemployed youths a large sum of money for travel visas and then sending them for illegal recruitment into the Russian army.

This report comes after Kathmandu asked Moscow this week not to recruit its citizens into the Russian army, and to send any Nepali soldier in its armed forces back to the country after six of its citizens fighting in the Ukraine conflict were killed.

Kathmandu District Police Chief Bhupendra Khatri said 10 people were in police custody after being detained over the past few days following tip-offs. We are discussing with the government lawyers about the case and will produce them to the court, Khatri told Reuters.

Sent to Russia via UAE

Khatri said the detainees illegally charged each person up to USD 9,000 and sent them to Russia on visit (tourist) visas, mainly through the UAE. They were then recruited into the Russian army. It is a case of human smuggling  organised crime, Khatri added.

Nepal, the small Himalayan nation that lies between India and China, has asked Russia, which has been engaged in a war against Ukraine since February last year, to compensate the families of the Nepali citizens killed.

Nepali soldiers, called Gurkhas, are known for their bravery and fighting skills and have been serving the British and Indian armies after the independence of India in 1947 under an agreement among the three countries.

However, there is no such agreement with Russia. Millions of Nepalis are employed in civilian work  mainly as labourers in industries and construction in Asia and the Middle East.

(With agency inputs)
A Nepal court has convicted two persons, including a suspected agent of Pakistans ISI, for their involvement in plotting a terror attack by planting a bomb in a train in India some seven years ago, media reports said.

On Tuesday, the court gave the verdict in a case filed by the Money Laundering Department against the two Nepali nationals. The two are identified as Samsul Hoda and Brij Kishor Giri, according to Special Courts spokesperson Dhan Bahadur Karki.

The details of the incident and the verdict have yet to be made public. The Nepalese court will pronounce the sentence against the duo in the next hearing, according to the court official.

However, according to a local news portal cited by a PTI report, Hoda, while residing in Dubai, hatched a terror plot against India with the help of a Pakistani national and mobilised some Pakistani and Nepalese youths to plant a bomb in Indias Bihar state. According to the report, the bomb was planted but did not explode due to a technical fault, the report said.

Hoda used to receive money from Pakistans spy agency ISI and send it to Nepal from Dubai to carry out his plans. He also murdered two Indian nationals after his plan failed. After the murder, he took the dead bodies to the nearby forest.

Moreover, a special task force in India also carried out a separate investigation into the matter, the report said. It added that three people, Moti Paswan, Umashanker Patel and Mukesh Yadav, were arrested.

(With agency inputs)
UAEs Ambassador to India Abdulnasser Alshaali, in an exclusive interview with News18, said the meet between UAE President HH Mohammed Bin Zayed and Prime Minister Narendra Modi was significant.

Their interactions reflected a strong friendship, with agreements on various topics. Vibrant Gujarat was also on the agenda, and the UAE expressed its commitment to participating at the highest level in this key event following an invitation from PM Modi, Alshaali said, adding that he was excited about the inauguration of the BAPS Temple in Abu Dhabi.

Edited excerpts:

What were the key objectives and focus areas of the COP28 summit in the UAE?

The COP28 summit in the UAE focused on various areas. Notably, declarations were signed by several countries, including one on climate finance supported by India and the operationalization of the loss and damage funds, with the UAE contributing $100 million. The summit saw substantial financial commitments from various parties, highlighting the significant role played by the UAE in its COP28 presidency.

What specific priorities and initiatives did the UAE bring to COP28 to address climate change, and how does it plan to contribute globally?

The UAE operationalized the loss and damage fund, with over $700 million contributed by countries, including a substantial $100 million from the UAE. Numerous declarations were signed, such as the Agriculture and Food Declaration by over 130 countries and the Climate Health Declaration signed by 120 countries. The overall success of COP28 presidency is evident in the numbers, reflecting the UAEs commitment to advancing global efforts for a sustainable future.

I am always very happy to meet my brother HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Todays meeting during #COP28 has been very productive. Thanked him for the warm hospitality. Also discussed various issues aimed at deepening India-UAE friendship and making our planet more pic.twitter.com/PmM3188lEx Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 1, 2023

How is the UAE fostering collaboration with other nations and stakeholders to ensure a successful and impactful COP28 summit?

Flexibility was key in the face of challenges during COP28. The UAE, as the host, remained accommodating, considering comments and feedback until the end. Recognizing each countrys national priorities, development goals, and economic growth, the UAE aimed for inclusive collaboration, bridging gaps in positions to ensure a fair and successful outcome for all.

Beyond the summit, what are the UAEs aspirations and commitments for ongoing climate action and sustainability efforts, and how does it plan to monitor and assess the impact of COP28 outcomes?

The UAE acknowledges that announcing numbers and pledging funds is just the beginning. The focus is on translating the outcomes of COP28 into tangible actions during subsequent COP presidencies. Ensuring a follow-up on pledges and effective utilization of resources is crucial in achieving climate goals and sustaining the impact of COP28.

In the recent high-level meeting between the President of the UAE and PM Modi on the sidelines of COP28, could you delve into the specific discussions on climate-related initiatives and also provide insights into the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat summit and the UAEs role, especially considering PM Modis invitation to H.H.?

The meeting between the President of the UAE Abdulnasser Alshaali and Prime Minister Modi was significant, with discussions centering on COP28. Their interactions reflected a strong friendship, with agreements on various topics. Vibrant Gujarat was also on the agenda, and the UAE expressed its commitment to participating at the highest level in this key event, following an invitation from PM Modi.

Delhi | External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar attends Iftar party hosted by UAE Ambassador Abdulnasser Alshaali at UAE Embassy in New Delhi. pic.twitter.com/M68UYZljKk ANI (@ANI) April 8, 2023

Your thoughts on BAPS Temple coming up in Abu Dhabi, as there is a lot of excitement about the inauguration of the Temple?

I am equally excited about the BAPS Temple in Abu Dhabi. This landmark project is unprecedented in the region and reflects the UAEs tolerance and acceptance of people from diverse backgrounds. The visible message of peace transcending religions and ethnicities is a testament to the UAEs open-minded and inclusive approach. The tentative inauguration date is set for February 14, subject to any last-minute changes.
Four people were killed and at least three others were injured after a rampage in Texas in the United States. The shooting spree occurred over the span of several hours on Tuesday in Austin.

A man suspected to be behind the attack and also the deaths of two people near San Antonio was taken into custody, as per Texas authorities.

Police informed that the dead were found in many homes and the injured included two police officers and a bicyclist.

Addressing a news conference on Tuesday night, Austin interim police chief Robin Henderson, said that the accused who is in his 30s was charged with capital murder.

We strongly believe one suspect is responsible for all of the incidents, Henderson added. Police was unable to determine that these incidents were connected until the last incident occurred on Tuesday night.

Providing a timeline, Henderson said that an Austin independent school district police officer was shot and injured on Tuesday at about 10:45 a.m. Following this around noon, a man and a woman were found dead in a home.

Shortly before 5 p.m., another shooting occured where a male cyclist suffered injuries. Police responded at around 7 p.m. to a call of a burglary in progress at another home later found two people dead there. However how the four people died was not informed by Henderson.

During the last call, an Austin police officer saw a man in the back yard. The man shot at the officer and the officer returned fire, Henderson said. The officer suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was taken to a hospital. The officer was listed in stable condition. Police said the man, who was not hit, drove away and police pursued him. He crashed at about 7:15 p.m. at a highway intersection and was taken into custody. The man had a gun, Henderson said.

The relationship between the man and the victims, if any, wasnt immediately known, Henderson said. In Bexar County, about 80 miles (129 kilometres) south, Sheriff Javier Salazar said his agency got a call from Austin police at about 7:45 p.m. about some shootings. They said the man they had in custody had links to a residence east of San Antonio.

As two deputies approached that home, I believe they saw water coming out of the residence, appearing as if something was leaking inside, Salazar said. Two people were found dead in the house, but Salazar didnt say how they died. Salazar said its believed the deaths in the home happened before the attacks in Austin.

(with PTI inputs)
The United States on Tuesday said it will wait to see the results of the investigation announced by India concerning allegations of the involvement of an Indian official in a plot to assassinate a separatist Sikh leader in the US.

We have noted at the most senior levels of this government the secretary of state has raised this directly with his foreign counterpart that we take this issue very seriously. They told us they would conduct an investigation, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said during a news conference.

They have publicly announced an investigation. Now, we will wait to see the results of the investigation, Miller said in response to a question. American prosecutors have linked an Indian official to a man charged with conspiring to assassinate Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on US soil.

Watch the Daily Press Briefing from the State Department.https://t.co/uPVLIuJrzP Matthew Miller (@StateDeptSpox) December 5, 2023

Last week, US federal prosecutors charged Nikhil Gupta, 52, of working with an Indian government employee in the foiled plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a Sikh extremist. The US prosecutors informed a Manhattan court that authorities in the Czech Republic arrested and detained Gupta.

The Biden administration earlier had welcomed Indias decision to announce a high-level probe into its allegations that an Indian official was involved in a foiled plot to assassinate a Sikh separatist on American soil. The indictment of Gupta has created some ripples in the diplomatic relations between the two countries, but top sources in the Indian government told News18 there is absolutely no impact on bilateral ties.

We take Indo-US relations very seriously, and any allegations, information or indictment is a matter of serious concern. We will definitely look into the allegations made by the Americans and we will cooperate on everything. We will come in black and white. All our deals, strategic partnerships and investment will continue and we are working on major projects and corridors as announced during the G20 summit, the sources told News18.
Children's writer Juleus Ghunta published the Tata and the Big Bad Bull in 2018. (Submitted by Juleus Ghunta - image credit)

Juleus Ghunta learned to read at 11. Two decades later, the Keyano College social work student is racking up several wins including one of seven highly coveted spots in the Writers' Guild of Alberta's 2024 Mentorship Program

Gunta, a Jamaican poet and children's author, said he felt the recognition was a big relief, after several recent rejections from journals and prizes.

"When it is condensed, it does seem remarkable, but for the person going through this journey, it can be very, very difficult and frustrating," said Ghunta, a first-year social work student at Keyano, who moved from Japan in August, counting Canada as his seventh home.

"It does feel special, not just for those reasons, but the fact that I had a very difficult life, growing up as it relates to reading and literacy."

Ghunta was one of 65 candidates. The jury pairs winners with the mentor best suited for their style of writing and proposed project.

Starting in January, Ghunta will spend four months mentored by Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike, an author, poet and assistant professor at the University of Alberta.

It will be the first time the self-taught writer trains with a professional, as he completes his debut full-length poetry collection.

"There's a very strong voice there and there's a lot of purpose and intention behind what he wants to write about and the story that he wants to tell about himself," said Jason Norman, program and events coordinator with the Writers' Guild.

In its 13th year, the program has contributed to notable writing careers including award-winning authors A.J. Devlin and Ali Bryan.

Juleus Ghunta launching his children's book in his hometown of Jamaica.

Juleus Ghunta launching his children's book in Jamaica. (Submitted by Juleus Ghunta)

Ghunta's own personal story started in rural Jamaica  born to a single mom, who could only afford to send Ghuntu's older sister to school early on.

When he first started in school, Ghunta couldn't catch up. Abuse from his teachers made it worse. Then, a teacher-in-training started a reading club. Ghuntu was the first to sign up and the last to leave.

Story continues

"Why did I stay?," asked Ghuntu. "She was a good teacher, but more than that, she was kind to me."

Ghuntu's writing largely explores those childhood challenges but also the aftermath.

He said he spent most of his life in hospitals misdiagnosed with various illnesses and dealing with depression, motor inhibition and blackouts.

Ghuntu eventually discovered his ailments were due to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) such as poverty, abuse and racism.

On a scholarship, Ghunta completed a master's degree at the University of Bradford in peace studies, digging deep into how those stressors affected his life.

Ghuntu said he began to notice something else as well: he was healing.

"I was surprised to see how much has been written about expressive writing as a healing modality, and certainly to have made a big difference in my life."

Currently an appointee to Jamaica's task force on education, Ghuntu has also published children's books. The autobiographical Tata and the Big Bad Bull explores community, self-forgiveness and overcoming bullying.

As a kid he couldn't afford to bus to school, so Ghuntu had to walk through a pasture, regularly crossing paths with a bull that once attacked him.

"My back got stuck in the barbed wire and I ran and I ran," Ghuntu recalled ."But the bull here is a metaphor for some of the challenges that I had to overcome to accomplish my goals."

In November, Ghuntu won the 2023 WorldView Prize from the U.K.'s Poetry Archive  one of 20 winners globally.

Next March, his first peer-reviewed book chapter comes out: Working Toward Trauma-Informed Praxis: Reflections on a Shared Learning Process, by Columbia University's Teachers College Press.

Perhaps his biggest achievement however, is the eventual understanding of his grandmother's wisdom, something he said he didn't appreciate as a boy.

The lesson inspired Ghuntu's poem There Was Never Enough Salt in the Kitchen, excerpted below:

"At 14 the age I started living on my own, I would summon this memory, not of beads or bones, the memory of grandma's arms stretched wide, her guttural praise of the bush doctor's prophecy of wings. In 2019, a year before she died, I asked why she still sprinkles salt. She sent me for an atlas, told me to touch all the places I have been."
Venezuelas strongman President Nicolas Maduro ordered the nations state-owned companies to immediately begin exploring and exploiting the oil, gas and mines in Guyanas Essequibo region. The directive came a day after Venezuelan President Maduro held a referendum to reclaim the 61,600-square-mile (159,500-square-kilometre) territory which accounts for two-thirds of Guyana and also borders Brazil and is almost the size of Greece.

Guyana is also home to more than 200,000-250,000 Hindus, making it the only nation in the Western Hemisphere with a sizable Hindu population, according to Pew Research Centre and Encyclopedia.com. Close to 37% of Essequibos population, as per data from 2012, follow Hinduism. Reports by Guyana-based Stabroek News and Newsroom Guyana showed the community holding yagnas, community events and functions during religious festivals and Essequibos Hindu community also won several awards at the annual Diwali motorcade contest held this year in Guyanas capital Georgetown.

ALSO READ| Territorial Dispute: Guyana Vigilant as Venezuela Vows to Reclaim Essequibo

How Venezuelas bid to take over the area will impact the Hindus living in the region remains unclear as the South American nation itself is suffering from sanctions and accusations of political subjugation of its autocratic President Maduros opponents.

Guyanese Hindus are also struggling to retain their traditions alive in the face of many challenges, according to a blog post by the Hindu American Foundation.

ALSO READ | Venezuela Approves Referendum to Claim Part of Neighbouring Guyana as its Own Territory

Guyanese Hindus are descendants of Indians in both north and south India who were taken to the South American nation as labourers in plantations during the colonial period following the abolition of the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833.

Why Venezuela Wants Essequibo

Following the referendum held in the Venezuelan capital of Caracas earlier this weekend, Maduro ordered creation of local subsidiaries of Venezuelan public companies, including oil giant PDVSA and mining conglomerate Corporacion Venezolana de Guayana. He asked these companies to grant operating licences for the exploration and exploitation of oil, gas and mines in the entire area of our Essequibo.

The strongman leader threw his entire weight behind the referendum and has set his eyes on the area after ExxonMobil discovered oil in commercial quantities in 2015.

The referendum, however, failed to garner much public support, according to reports by the Associated Press, even though Maduro claimed that he had the backing of 10.5 million voters.

Jose Luis Cova, 45, who lives near two voting centres in Caracas, the capital, said polling stations were empty. Everything they said is a lie because I passed by several centres and everything was always empty. I dont know where they got that number of people who supposedly voted for Essequibo, Cova was quoted as saying by the news agency.

Guyana, for its part, said it would remain vigilant. Guyana has denounced the referendum as pretext to annex the land and has asked the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to intervene after Maduro said he plans to build an airstrip to serve as a logistical support point for the integral development of the Essequibo.

The ICJ ordered Venezuela not to take any action that would alter Guyanas control over a disputed territory but also did not bar it from holding the sham referendum.

We have to always remain vigilant. Of course, our monitoring must be always at a high level. President Maduro, while we dont believe he will order an invasion can do something that can be very unpredictable, Foreign Minister Hugh Todd told AFP.

Venezuela has for decades laid claim to Essequibo, which is home to 125,000 of Guyanas 800,000 citizens. Litigation is pending before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague over where the borders should lie, according to a report by news agency AFP.

Guyana, a former British and Dutch colony, insists the frontiers were determined by an arbitration panel in 1899. But Venezuela  which does not recognize the ICJs jurisdiction in the matter  claims the Essequibo River to the regions east forms a natural border and had historically been recognized as such, the news agency further said in its report.
A video shared by North Koreas state-run Korean Central Television showed North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un wiping away tears as he acknowledged the struggling nations falling birth rates for the first time at the National Conference of Mothers, held in capital Pyongyang, the first of its kind in 11 years.

NEW: North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un starts crying as he begs North Koreans to have more babies.North Korean birth rates are about to skyrocket The incident happened at the National Mothers Meeting hosted by the dictator who started dabbing his eyes in an effort to get pic.twitter.com/F8xg0dZ05J  Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) December 5, 2023

When all mothers clearly understand that it is patriotism to give birth to many children and do so positively, our cause of building a powerful socialist country can be hastened faster, the 39-year-old dictator, Kim Jong Un, father to three children, said, thanking mothers for being on the frontline of rooting out anti-socialist behaviour and helping North Korea prosper, a report by the Wall Street Journal said.

Kim Jong Un urged North Korean women to be meticulous mothers, grateful wives and kindhearted daughter-in-laws. Unless a mother becomes a communist, it is impossible for her to bring up her sons and daughters as communists and transform the members of her family into revolutionaries, Kim Jong Un said.

In the video shared by the state-controlled media, many women attending the conference were also seen shedding tears.

Kim on Tuesday said that households producing many children will be given higher priority for housing, food and medical services. He also spoke of unspecified subsidies and preferential treatment for mothers who have more children and are better comrades.

North Koreas birth rate is unusually low for an impoverished country, standing at 1.6, according to South Korean estimates. The report by the Wall Street Journal said that North Koreas birth rate is half the rate of African countries with a similar economic profile. Citing demographic experts, the report said nations need fertility rates of around 2.1 to maintain the population.

North Koreas fertility rate has steadily fallen from about 2.8 in 1979, according to United Nations data.

North Korea faces strong challenges when it comes to boosting its birth rates. The North Korean economy has suffered under sanctions and isolation during the pandemic. Much of its 26 million population suffers from food shortages and rampant human-rights abuses which disproportionately affects women. The Human Rights Watch says cases of domestic violence and sexual harassment against North Korean women go virtually unreported due to deeply patriarchal society.

Lee Woo-young, a professor of North Korean society and culture at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, pointing to women often serving as a households breadwinners due to governments economic and military policy, told the newspaper that women began prioritising making a living over having children.
An Indian-origin foreign policy and national security expert, with roots in Kashmir, has announced that she will run for the US House of Representatives from a Congressional district in Virginia. With a focus on core issues like public safety, education and healthcare, Krystle Kaul, would be only the second Indian-American woman to be elected to the House of Representatives.

First was Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. Pramila Jayapals sister Susheela Jayapal has also thrown her hat in the race to the Congress from the third Congressional District of Oregon. Both Kaul and Susheela Jayapal, from the Democratic Party, will have to win the partys primary next year to bag the partys nomination for the November 2024 general elections.

Granddaughter of Indian immigrants

Her campaign website describes Krystle as a candidate who knows firsthand the power of the American dream. When her grandfather arrived in the United States, he didnt have a dime in his pocket. So he got a job as an insurance salesman, and through hard work and perseverance, he created a good life for his family, according to the website.

Fluent in eight languages, including Hindi, Punjabi, Dari, Urdu and Arabic, Kaul, the first Kashmiri-origin person to ever run for Congress, said her decision to run for the 10th Congressional District of Virginia came after Democratic Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton who has represented the constituency since 2019 announced her decision not to seek re-election.

Three core issues

Kaul has spent her professional life in the national security establishment from the Pentagon to think tanks and the defence industry. She said education, healthcare and public Safety are the three core issues she would focus on in her campaign. The 10th Congressional District of Virginia encompasses parts of Virginia that have one of the highest concentrations of Indian Americans and South Asians in the state, like Loudoun County, Fairfax County and Prince Williams County.

Elaborating on her promises to the electorate, she said: The first foremost being is educationThe second one is improving our healthcare system here. We have a lot of small business owners and just making healthcare more affordable and more accessible. So from prescription drugs to seeing specialists, that is something that is a concern. And the third is public safety, making sure we have safe neighbourhoods, safe schools, safe communities, Kaul, who is in her late thirties, said.

Early Education

Krystle graduated with a B.A. from American University, MAs from Brown University and Johns Hopkins University (SAIS), and has a PhD in Political Science in progress at Brown University. She served as a Director (GS-15) of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency at DOD, the Director of Strategic Communications of the US Air Force and NATO for General Dynamics Information Technology, and as an Intelligence Political-Military Expert at U.S. Central Command. She also holds an active Top Secret/SCI security clearance with a polygraph, according to the campaign website.

(With agency inputs)
A former U.S. diplomat and ambassador to Bolivia has been charged with working for more than four decades as a secret agent for the Cuban government, according to the Justice Department.

Manuel Rocha, who was arrested Friday in Miami and appeared in federal court on Monday, is accused of "serving as a covert agent" to support the Republic of Cuba's "clandestine intelligence-gathering mission against the United States," a complaint filed in U.S. District Court states.

Investigators say Rocha, 73, provided the U.S. with false and misleading information "to protect his secret mission"; traveled outside the U.S. to meet with Cuban intelligence operatives; and made false statements to obtain travel documents, a complaint filed on Monday alleges.

Investigators claim Rocha did not notify the the U.S. attorney general or the secretary of state that he was working on behalf of Cubas General Directorate of Intelligence (DGI)  a violation of federal law. They also accuse Rocha of seeking positions within the U.S. government, and eventually using them, to affect foreign policy.

U.S. ambassador to Bolivia, Manuel Rocha, speaks to members of the press in La Paz on July 11, 2001. A former US ambassador to Bolivia and member of the National Security Council has been charged with spying for Cuba, the Justice Department announced on Dec. 4, 2023.

Rocha, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Colombia, faces the following charges: conspiracy to act as agent of a foreign government, acting as an illegal agent of a foreign government and use of a passport obtained by a false statement, according to records filed in federal court.

Rocha's efforts to aid the Cuban government began when he started working for the State Department in 1981, investigators say. Rocha served on the National Security Council from 1994 to 1995 and was the U.S. ambassador to Bolivia from 2000 to 2002. It was not immediately clear if he had a lawyer as of Monday afternoon.

"This action exposes one of the highest-reaching and longest-lasting infiltrations of the United States government by a foreign agent, Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement Monday.

Those who have the privilege of serving in the government of the United States are given an enormous amount of trust by the public we serve. To betray that trust by falsely pledging loyalty to the United States while serving a foreign power is a crime that will be met with the full force of the Justice Department.

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Undercover FBI agent met with Rocha three times

Sometime around November of last year, agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation received information that Rocha was a covert agent for the DGI. Two weeks after receiving the tip, an undercover FBI agent messaged Rocha on WhatsApp, saying he was "representing your friends in Havana." Soon the agent scheduled a time to meet the retired diplomat in front of a church in the Brickell neighborhood in Miami.

Rocha, in total, met with the undercover FBI agent three times between November 2022 and June of this year. The conversations, which were in Spanish and then translated to English, were audio and video recorded.

During the meetings, Rocha referred to the United States as "the enemy" and praised Fidel Castro as "the commander," investigators said. He described his work as a Cuban agent as a grand slam." And details about his clandestine operations were later confirmed by investigators.

For example, in his first conversation with the undercover FBI agent, Rocha mentioned an incident while he "was in charge" as "the knock down of the small planes" and said it as a time of great tension between Cuba and the U.S. government.

The FBI alleges that the incident Rocha was referring to happened in February 1996 when four men died after Cuba shot down two unarmed airplanes operated by members of Brothers to the Rescue, a U.S.-based group opposed to Castro's government, court records say.

From 1995 to 1997, Rocha worked for the U.S. Department of State as an officer for the United States Interests Section of the Swiss Embassy in Havana, Cuba  the official representative of the U.S. government in Cuba.

"The audio and video-recorded conversations summarized above in themselves establish unequivocally that ROCHA, in his own words, has acted for decades as a covert agent of the DGI," the complaint states.

Joe Trento, an author and investigative journalist who covers the U.S. intelligence community, said it's not the first time the Cuban government has made inroads into U.S. secrets.

"The Cuban DGI has a very long history of successfully spying on us," Trento said. "They usually recruit in the refugee community and often recruit the same people the CIA recruited."

Rocha lied repeatedly to state department agents, complaint says

Also during his initial meeting with the FBI agent, Rocha "admitted" to traveling to Cuba in 2016 and 2017 to meet with DGI handlers in Havana, according to court records. Rocha told the agent that he traveled into Cuba via Panama "as a Dominican." Investigators said they corroborated the information through travel records.

On Friday, Rocha participated in a voluntary interview with agents from the Department of State. During the interview, Rocha "lied repeatedly," denying ever meeting someone with the FBI agent's description, even after being shown a photo of the agent.

After the State Department agents showed Rocha a photo they had of him sitting across from the FBI agent, he said the undercover agent approached him only once. When the interviewers said they had information that there was more than one meeting, Rocha stated "he did not want to comment."

Like all federal officials, U.S. diplomats swear an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. Acting as an agent for Cuba  a hostile foreign power  is a blatant violation of that oath and betrays the trust of the American people, said FBI Director Christopher Wray in a statement Monday.

Contributing: Bart Jansen and Dan Morrison, USA TODAY

Christopher Cann is a breaking news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him via email at ccann@usatoday.com or follow him on X @ChrisCannFL.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Former U.S. ambassador arrested for secretly spying for Cuban government
Networking

Kansas to Build State's First Internet Exchange Point at Wichita State University

The State of Kansas has awarded a $5 million grant to construct a carrier-neutral Internet Exchange Point (IXP) next to Wichita State University's (WSU) Innovation Campus. Nonprofit Connected Nation (CN) and Newby Ventures will partner as Connected Nation Internet Exchange Points (CNIXP) to build, own, and operate the facility across from WSU's Eck Stadium.

Construction is set to begin in January 2024 and is expected to take 18 months, said CN. WSU is providing a 40-year lease on the ground as an in-kind matching grant. The internet exchange ecosystem DE-CIX will be the IX platform operator.

"The hardened modular facility will be constructed to withstand 200 mph winds and will have redundant electrical and mechanical systems so that it can remain fully operational even during extended community power outages," CN said in a release. "The facility will also be capable of expanding on a modular basis with zero down-time as network operator needs grow in the coming years."

The facility will have several benefits for the university, businesses, and the state at large, CN said:

Local and regional networks will be able to exchange data traffic with each other.

Cloud services and content networks such as Amazon, Google, Netflix, and Microsoft will have faster and more secure connections.

High bandwidth, low latency, low cost, and resilient connectivity will enhance regional internet connections and attract businesses.

WSU's ground lease will allow it to establish network interconnection space and services within the facility at no cost for 40 years, which is expected to bring $2 million back to the university in benefits, according to Hunter Newby, CEO of Newby Ventures.

The research and innovation park Innovation Campus, occupying over 120 acres at WSU, houses several global companies and organizations that will benefit from the IXP.

"A thriving community is built on connections," said Rick Muma, WSU president. "Establishing a carrier-neutral IXP at Wichita State, right in the heart of our state, will drive innovation and ensure that all Kansans have access to the increased opportunities provided by this highly efficient and reliable digital infrastructure."

Public K12 schools will reap the advantage as well, said Rob Dickson, chief Information officer of Wichita Public Schools.

"This state-of-the-art IXP represents a monumental leap towards enhancing the digital infrastructure of our state. It promises to revolutionize the way our schools  from urban to rural areas  access and utilize the internet. This is more than an infrastructure development; it's a commitment to ensuring that every student and educator in Kansas has the tools for success in an increasingly interconnected world. By significantly lowering the cost of internet access and improving its quality, we are setting the stage for our young learners to thrive in the digital age, preparing them for the challenges of tomorrow."

For more information about the project, or to pre-order space in the facility, interested parties may contact [email protected].
President Biden on Tuesday forcefully denounced the reported rape and sexual violence against Israeli girls and women by Hamas militants following the Oct. 7 attack on Israel, calling on the world to condemn such conduct "without equivocation" and "without exception." Speaking at a campaign fundraiser in Boston , Biden noted that in recent weeks, female survivors and witnesses to the attacks have shared "horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty," the AP reports. "Reports of women rapedrepeatedly rapedand their bodies being mutilated while still aliveof women corpses being desecrated, Hamas terrorists inflicting as much pain and suffering on women and girls as possible and then murdering them," Biden said. "It is appalling."

Israel has said it is investigating multiple cases of sexual assault and rape from the Hamas attack on Israel. Witnesses and medical experts have said that Hamas militants committed a series of rapes and other attacks before killing the victims in the Oct. 7 attack, though the extent of the sexual violence remains unknown. Experts have been piecing together evidence in recent weeks. The group Physicians for Human Rights in Israel says it is "becoming more apparent that the violence perpetrated against women, men, and children also included widespread sexual and gender-based crimes," reports the AP.

Biden's comments come as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has sought to put greater focus on the sexual violence it says Hamas committed during the Oct. 7 attack that killed some 1,200 people on Israeli soil and led to another 240 being taken hostage. Some recently released hostages have shared testimonies of sexual violence and abuse during their time in Gaza. Netanyahu railed against the lack of international response during a press conference on Tuesday evening. "I say to the women's rights organizations, to the human rights organizations, you've heard of the rape of Israeli women, horrible atrocities, sexual mutilationwhere the hell are you?" asked Netanyahu.

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As a senator, Biden was the author of the Violence Against Women Act , which was signed into law in 1994. He referenced his work on the issue as a lawmaker as he spoke out against the allegations of sexual violence by Hamas. "The world can't just look away at what's going on," Biden told donors. He added, "It's on all of usgovernment, international organizations, civil society, and businessesto forcefully condemn the sexual violence of Hamas terrorists without equivocation. Without equivocation, without exception."

(Read more Israel-Hamas war stories.)
The US recently made a "substantial" offer that would have seen two Americans freed from Russian captivity, but Russia rejected the deal, a US State Department spokesperson says. The deal would have freed Evan Gershkovich, the Wall Street Journal reporter whose detention was just extended after eight months behind bars , and Paul Whelan, the former Marine who has been detained since 2018 , the BBC reports. "We have made a number of proposals, including a substantial one in recent weeks," State Department rep Matthew Miller said at a press briefing. "That proposal was rejected by Russia." He gave no further details of the proposed deal, but sources tell the Journal the deal would have involved trading prisoners.

To mark 250th day of Gershkovich's detention Monday, the Journal's editor and publisher released a statement reading, "While these moments help us collectively express our support for Evan and to highlight his case, we must also convey our outrage and continue to call for his immediate release. The passage of time dictates that we work harder than ever to sustain our efforts until Evan is free." Experts say the process of securing a deal to free Gershkovich could take more than a year; Moscow has indicated it would only be open to such a deal after a verdict is delivered in his case. Whelan, whom Russia in 2020 sentenced to 16 years, was recently attacked by another inmate at the Russian prison where he's detained, NBC News reports. (Read more Russia stories.)
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson defended his handling of COVID-19 on Wednesday at a public inquiry into the pandemic, saying his government "got some things wrong" but did its best. Johnson began two days of questioning under oath by lawyers for the judge-led inquiry about his initial reluctance to impose a national lockdown in early 2020 and other fateful decisions, reports the AP . Johnson opened his testimony with an apology "for the pain and the loss and the suffering of the COVID victims," though not for any of his own actions. Four people stood up in court as he spoke, holding signs saying: "The Dead can't hear your apologies," before being escorted out by security staff.

"Inevitably, in the course of trying to handle a very, very difficult pandemic in which we had to balance appalling harms on either side of the decision, we may have made mistakes," Johnson said. "Inevitably, we got some things wrong. I think we were doing our best at the time." Among those wanting answers from the inquiry are families of some of the more than 230,000 people in the UK who died after contracting the virusone of the highest death tolls in Europe. Johnson had arrived at the inquiry venue at daybreak, several hours before he was due to take the stand, avoiding a protest by relatives of some of the victims.

Johnson said he was "not sure" whether his government's decisions caused excess deaths, though the BBC reports he did say the UK should have "twigged much sooner"that is, realized the risks"I should have twigged." The New York Times reports Johnson is expected to explain "how he navigated between ministers like [current Prime Minister Rishi] Sunak, who warned about the damage of shutting down Britain's economy, and influential aides like Dominic Cummings, who urged Mr. Johnson to impose swift, prolonged lockdowns." Johnson was pushed out of office by his own Conservative Party in mid-2022 after multiple ethics scandals, including the revelation that he and staff members held parties in the prime minister's Downing Street offices in 2020 and 2021.

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Johnson agreed in late 2021 to hold a public inquiry after heavy pressure from bereaved families. The probe, led by retired Judge Heather Hallett, is expected to take three years to complete, though interim reports will be issued starting next year. Former colleagues, aides, and advisers have painted an unflattering picture of Johnson and his government over weeks of testimony. In diaries that have been seen as evidence, Former Chief Scientific Adviser Patrick Vallance said Johnson was "obsessed with older people accepting their fate." Cummings said the then-prime minister asked scientists whether blowing a hair dryer up his nose could kill the virus, while Cabinet Secretary Simon Case, the country's top civil servant, called Johnson and his inner circle "basically feral."

(Read more Boris Johnson stories.)
Authorities in Central Texas are trying to form a complete picture of an apparant Tuesday shooting spree that left six people dead and three others injured, including two police officers. An unidentified male suspect in his 30s is in custody and charged with capital murder, per the AP . It was only after the suspect was apprehended that police began to understand the extent of his alleged crimes, said Austin Interim Police Chief Robin Henderson. The suspect is thought to have killed a man and a woman in their 50s in a Bexar County home before traveling to the Austin area, where he shot and injured an Austin Independent School District officer in a parking lot of Northeast Early College High School around 10:40am, police said, per CNN and the AP.

He allegedly shot and killed two people in a home about 12 miles from the school around noon, then proceeded to shoot and injure a bicyclist around 5pm. About two hours later, an Austin police officer was shot and injured while responding to a burglary call at a southwest Austin home where two additional victims were found dead. The suspect fled the home in a vehicle that crashed minutes later. He was then arrested. Police noted he was found with a firearm. "We strongly believe one suspect is responsible for all of the incidents," Henderson said at a press conference early Wednesday, emphasizing that "law enforcement did not determine that these incidents were connected until the last incident occurred" Tuesday night.

While investigating the suspect, Austin police connected him to an address near San Antonio and reached out to law enforcement there, said Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar. When deputies arrived at the home, they found the first two victims dead inside. Salazar described it as a "pretty grisly crime scene," per CNN. "This is a very quiet family," he added. "The gentleman that lives in the home, he's very involved in the community, in the neighborhood watch." Henderson said it was not known whether the suspect was connected to any of the victims. He was booked into Travis County Jail "for an outstanding assault with injury [and] family violence warrant," the chief said, per CNN. In addition to capital murder, further charges are pending. (Read more Texas mass shooting stories.)
The Department of Justice on Wednesday said it has filed war crimes charges against four members of the Russian military accused of abducting and torturing an American during the invasion of Ukraine in a case that's the first of its kind. The four Russians are accused of kidnapping the American from his home in a Ukrainian village in 2022, reports the AP . The American was beaten and interrogated while being held for 10 days at a Russian military compound, before eventually being evacuated with his wife, who's Ukrainian, US authorities said. The American told federal agents who'd traveled to Ukraine last year as part of an investigation that the Russian soldiers had abducted him, stripped him naked, pointed a gun at his head, and badly beaten him, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said.

"The evidence gathered by our agents speaks to the brutality, criminality, and depravity of Russia's invasion," Mayorkas said. The case marks the first time the US has filed war crime charges in the victimization of an American, he said. Homeland Security and FBI investigators interviewed the American, his family, and others who were around the village of Mylove around the time of the kidnapping to identify the four Russians, Mayorkas said. Attorney General Merrick Garland has been outspoken on war crimes in Ukraine since Russia's invasion began in February 2022. Independent human-rights experts backed by the US have said they've found continued evidence of war crimes committed by Russian forces, including torture that ended in the rape and death of women up to 83 years old.

The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin in March for war crimes, accusing him of personal responsibility for the abductions of children from Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia doesn't recognize the ICC and considers its decisions "legally void." He called the court's move "outrageous and unacceptable." The United States isn't a member of the ICC, but the Justice Department has been cooperating with it and supporting Ukrainian prosecutors as they carry out their own war crime investigations.

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The charges carry mostly symbolic significance for the moment, given the unclear prospects of any of the four defendants ever being brought to an American courtroom to face justice. They come as the Biden administration, in an effort to show continued support for Ukraine, is pressing Congress to approve military and economic aid for Kyiv's war effort. The US and Russia don't have an extradition treaty, but the Justice Department has brought repeated criminal cases against Russian nationals, most notably for cybercrimes and including for interference in the 2016 presidential election. In some of those cases, the defendants have been taken into custody by American officials, such as when they've traveled outside Russia.

(Read more Russia-Ukraine war stories.)
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Learning Tools

University of California Deploys Full Canva Product Suite Across All Campuses

The University of California (UC) has partnered with Canva to provide all 10 campuses with the visual communication company's full suite of visual communication, design tools, and AI-powered products.

This partnership will benefit over half a million students, staff, and faculty, who will have universal access to Canva for Campus, according to a news announcement. Canva's premium suite of tools will be free to students.

The Canva for Campus Visual Suite includes documents, websites, whiteboards, data visualization tools, and its new AI-powered Magic Studio. The company said its visual safety tools suite, Canva Shield, addresses using AI responsibly and safely.

Under the new partnership, the university community will be able to:

Provide a single sign-on for staff and students, at scale;

Streamline permissions for administration and reportage; and

Access learning management systems Canvas, Blackboard, Schoology, and other tools; and

Work with Canva's education support team.

The rollout will be conducted in stages, starting January 2024. University administrators are also looking at "course development, student training programs, and co-hosting future events," the company said.

Canva said the partnership highlights its commitment to visual tools as a learning method. Citing its 2023 Visual Economy Report that showed 94% of business leaders across every profession expect employees to have visual design skills, the company said 50 million K12 teachers and students worldwide use Canva to teach visual literacy. The demand is also high at colleges and universities, Canva said, "looking to equip students for an increasingly visual workforce."

"We always aim to meet our students, staff and faculty where they are and provide tools to further their success," said Van Williams, vice president of IT services at UC. "Our world today is a visual one. We communicate through presentations, reports, and social media. Canva's ease of use and ability to make complex things simple has made it a widely used tool by our students and staff. Now, everyone in our community will have access to this powerful platform, a key tool in an increasingly visual academic and professional world."
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The Deputy King, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, commended the historic relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Kingdom, which are based on solid foundations of cooperation spanning over 200 years.

HRH Prince Salman was speaking as he met yesterday with the UK Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Alastair Long, at Gudaibiya Palace. The Deputy King noted the mutual commitment to furthering bilateral relations through mutual visits and joint agreements to achieve mutual aspirations.

He highlighted the importance of the Bahrain-UK strategic partnership to enhance multisector collaboration. HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister hailed the UKs role, alongside allied countries, in consolidating international security and peace, which supports development and prosperity in the region and internationally.

Meeting

During the meeting, regional and global developments, issues of common interest and ways to enhance bilateral cooperation were also discussed. His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and the Minister of Cabinet Affairs, HE Hamad bin Faisal Al Malki, also attended the meeting.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Export Bahrain recognised the remarkable achievements of Bahraini women and their significant contributions to the Kingdom's prosperity on the occasion of Bahraini Women's Day.

Marking the day, Chief Executive Officer Safa Sharif AbdulKhaliq has been honoured with the Global Economics Award for "Best Emerging Women CEO of the Year in the Export Industry" In addition, Export Bahrain has received the "Best Government Agency for Women Empowerment" award from the European Global Sustainability & ESG Awards.

Through Export Bahrains support, 30% of the products and services exported have been from businesses owned by female entrepreneurs, empowering women in traditionally male-dominated industries.

Expressing her gratitude, Abdulkhaliq emphasised that the percentage of Bahraini women employed at Export Bahrain has far exceeded an impressive 90%. "We are proud to have achieved such a high level of representation and recognition for Bahraini women within our workforce," she remarked.
New research commissioned by Frito Lay Canada finds that more than 68% of Canadians are open to a snack change this holiday season

TORONTO, Dec. 6, 2023 /CNW/ - In an open letter published across the country today, Santa announced that he wants a break from cookies. This year, Santa is wishing for something savoury, and he's asking Canadians to start a new tradition by putting out a bowl of chips.

And it's not just Santa who has chips on his wish list - according to new research commissioned by Frito Lay Canada and among members of the Angus Reid Forum, 68% of Canadians sometimes want another option to sweets during the holiday season, and more than one-third actually prefer savoury snacks.

Image courtesy of Frito Lay Canada (CNW Group/Frito Lay Canada) Image courtesy of Frito Lay Canada (CNW Group/Frito Lay Canada) Video courtesy of Frito Lay Canada

Frito Lay Canada believes it's time chips became the holiday's main character. That's why the maker of beloved chip brands like Lay's, Doritos, and Cheetos is encouraging a new holiday tradition for the millions of Canadians who are ready for something new.

"This campaign started with one simple idea: What if Santa wanted an alternative to cookies?" says Jess Spaulding, Chief Marketing Officer at PepsiCo Foods Canada. "That really inspired us to think creatively about how Santa could speak for every Canadian who finds themselves wishing for a bowl of chips this holiday season."

In its new festive ad campaign launching nationally today (and starring Santa Claus), Frito Lay Canada is making chips the main character of the holiday season and encouraging Canadians to rethink the tradition of leaving cookies for Santa.

Introducing a new holiday classic: Miss Vickie's  All Wishes

Those who plan to leave something really special out for Santa should look no further than Miss Vickie's. Since the holidays are all about wishes, Frito Lay Canada is launching a limited-edition bag that puts a twist on an old classic. Remember fighting over that one folded chip in a bag, a.k.a. a "wish chip?" This season, you can pick up a bag of Miss Vickie's All Wishes kettle cooked potato chips and spread the wish-making around. The bags are filled entirely with wish chips  those delicious folded-over chips you can find in Miss Vickie's bags  and are packaged in a limited-edition holiday bag design.

Beginning later this week, Canadians can receive a bag of Miss Vickie's All Wishes by visiting MissVickiesHolidayWishes.ca . Limited quantities of the limited-edition bags will be dropped every day from December 8th to 12th at 11:11AM ET.

This bag isn't just a way to get wishesit's a way to grant them, too. Canadians who make a charitable donation of $5 or more are able to receive a bag. The Miss Vickie's brand is committed to tripling charitable donations to a maximum of $50,000. Even Santa would agree, that's a lot of wishes.

About PepsiCo Foods Canada

PepsiCo Foods Canada is comprised of the Frito Lay Canada and Quaker Canada businesses. The company employs over 6,000 Canadians with seven manufacturing plants and sales and distribution facilities from coast to coast. Frito Lay Canada is the country's largest snack food manufacturer and the company's brands include Lay's, Doritos, Tostitos, Ruffles, Smartfood and Cheetos. The Quaker brand portfolio includes a wide range of wholesome cereals, oatmeal, rice and corn snacks and snack bars, and features other prominent brands such as Quaker Life, Quaker Chewy, Quaker Harvest Crunch and Crispy Minis. For more information, please visit www.pepsico.ca .

About the Study

These are the findings of a study commissioned by Frito Lay Canada among a nationally representative sample of 1,508 Canadians who are members of the online Angus Reid Forum, balanced and weighted on age, gender, region and education. For comparison purposes only, a sample of this size would yield a margin of error of +/- 2.4 percentage points at a 95% confidence level. The study was conducted in English and French in December 2023.

SOURCE Frito Lay Canada

For further information: Please contact Sara Lemmermeyer; [email protected]
Eight Canadian heroes to receive $2,500 grant towards holiday community efforts

TORONTO, Dec. 6, 2023 /CNW/ - Think Turkey is pleased to announce the first-ever recipients of the 2023 Wishbone Awards. Launched in response to rising food insecurity in Canada, the Wishbone Awards recognize and support community heroes who help put holiday meals on the table for those in need.

Think Turkey Announces Recipients of First-Ever Wishbone Awards

Nominations were open nationally from November 2 to 15, 2023, inviting Canadians to share the story of a community hero who embodies the holiday spirit and is dedicated to fighting food insecurity. Eight recipients have been selected and will be recognized with a Wishbone Award and a $2,500 grant to help fund their 2023 holiday community efforts.

"From hand-delivering hundreds of turkeys to dedicating their holidays to hosting a community dinner, these eight selfless heroes go above and beyond each year to spread holiday cheer in their communities," said Darren Ference, Chair, Turkey Farmers of Canada. "We were incredibly moved by the Wishbone Award recipients' stories and are honoured to contribute to their holiday initiatives at a time when Canadians need it most."

Among the holiday heroes selected are Mike and Deanna Diab, founders of Talking Over Turkey, which has donated thousands of turkey dinners within the Windsor-Essex community, and Raymond Carignan, president of the Fondation d'Entraide de Brossard, Quebec who works tirelessly during the holidays and year-round to provide meals to students and community members.

2023 Wishbone Award Recipients

Barbara Vandenbor and Ashley Walter , BigDoor  Walkerton, Ont.

,  David and Jean Anderson  Minto , Ont.

 , Ont. Demetre Karountzos , No One Eats Alone Christmas Dinner  Creston, B.C.

,  Melissa Bain , Food For Life  Burlington, Ont.

,  Mike and Deanna Diab , Talking Over Turkey  Windsor - Essex, Ont.

,  - Peggy Terry and Cortney Barber , Neighbours in Need  St. John's , Nfld.

,  , Nfld. Raymond Carignan , Fondation d'Entraide de Brossard  Brossard, Que.

,  Sharmane Hindbo  Caroline , Alta.

"We hope the stories of these outstanding individuals inspire even more Canadians to pull together to make people's holiday wishes come true," said Mark Hubert, President and CEO, Canadian Poultry and Egg Processors.

The Wishbone Awards are part of The Wishbone Project, a charitable initiative launched in 2020 by Canada's turkey farmers and processors to give back to communities across Canada through foods and funds. Since its launch, The Wishbone Project has raised over $240,000, empowering local non-profits, charities, and community heroes to combat food insecurity.

In addition to the $20,000 in Wishbone grants awarded to recipients, Think Turkey will be donating $10,000 to Food Banks Canada.

For more information on the Wishbone Awards and to read the stories of all eight 2023 recipients, visit ThinkTurkey.ca/Wishbone.

About Think Turkey

Turkey Farmers of Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Poultry and Egg Processors' Turkey Primary Processing Sector Members launched Think TurkeyTM / Pensez DindonMC in 2019  a national, bilingual campaign aimed to boost turkey consumption. The five-year, fully integrated program includes advertising, digital, retail, PR, influencer, paid social and more, and focuses on engaging primary meal planners to raise awareness of the benefits of turkey, drive year-round demand and increase overall consumption.

SOURCE Think Turkey

For further information: Jessica Smith, [email protected], 905-733-8518
MONTREAL, Dec. 6, 2023 /CNW/ - The winners of the Support for the Organization of International Conventions competition, organized by the Ambassadors Club of the Palais des congres de Montreal and the Fonds de recherche du Quebec (FRQ), were announced last November 30 at the annual forum co-hosted by the two partners. The $10,000 bursaries, which recognize the work of researchers active in organizing scientific conferences, were awarded to the following:

From left to right: Nadia Chanane, FRQ Program Manager, Aida Ouangraoua, Professor, Faculty of Science, Universite de Sherbrooke, Momar Ndao, Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, and Catherine Morency, President, Club des Ambassadeur du Palais des congres de Montreal. Absent: Thomas Gervais, full professor, Department of Engineering Physics, Polytechnique Montreal. (CNW Group/Palais des congres de Montreal)

Momar Ndao , McGill University

16th International Congress of Parasitology (ICOPA XVI 2026)

, 16th International Congress of Parasitology (ICOPA XVI 2026) Thomas Gervais of Polytechnique Montreal

28th International Conference on Miniaturized Systems for Chemistry and Life Sciences (microTAS 2024)

of Polytechnique Montreal 28th International Conference on Miniaturized Systems for Chemistry and Life Sciences (microTAS 2024) Aida Ouangraoua, Universite de Sherbrooke

International Conference on Intelligent Systems for Molecular Biology (ISMB 2024)

An inspiring discussion forum

The ninth edition of the event, entitled "Forum  La democratie au temps de la desinformation" (Forum on democracy in the age of disinformation), followed a hybrid format, making it possible to bring together nearly 300 people from across Quebec. The first topic focused on issues in democracy and trust in institutions. The guest panellists' discussions then moved on to the importance of scientific literacy in the fight against disinformation, followed by how to tell real from fake in the world of AI and social media technology.

The winners took advantage of the award ceremony to thank the Palais des congres de Montreal and the Fonds de recherche du Quebec warmly for their support. Each of the three conventions, two of which will be held in 2024 and the third in 2026, will bring together thousands of participants from the four corners of the globe. All three events are expected to produce substantial economic and scientific spin-offs for city.

Quotations

"I wish to offer my heartfelt congratulations to the winners of the 2023 Support for the Organization of International Conventions competition organized by the Palais des congres de Montreal Ambassadors Club and the Fonds de recherche du Quebec. Their hard work in organizing major events contributes to the dissemination of knowledge on a scale that opens up broad new horizons, and it confirms the importance of pursuing scientific exchanges at international conferences."  Remi Quirion, Quebec's Chief Scientist

"Our partnership with the Fonds de recherche du Quebec is a tangible example of the importance the Palais des congres de Montreal attaches to scientific research. Every year, we proudly support researchers who, thanks to their renowned expertise, make Montreal a true hub of knowledge and innovation. The Palais will continue to offer its full support to leading scientists who work tirelessly to organize international conferences in our city, like the three members of the research community honoured yesterday. I wish to congratulate them once again and thank them all for their invaluable contribution to expanding Quebec's international profile."

Emmanuelle Legault, President and CEO, Palais des congres de Montreal

SOURCE Palais des congres de Montreal

For further information: Sebastien Zickgraf, Adviser and Copywriter, Communications and Public Affairs, Palais des congres de Montreal, Tel.: 514 871-5849, Email: [email protected]; Benoit Sevigny Director, Communications and Knowledge Mobilization, Fonds de recherche du Quebec, Tel. : 514 864-2114, ext.: 4619
ROUYN-NORANDA, QC, Dec. 6, 2023 /CNW/ - In order to ensure that all our programs are culturally relevant, the Universite du Quebec en Abitibi-Temiscamingue (UQAT) has embarked on a major initiative to include Indigenous perspectives throughout its academic curriculum. As part of a decolonization and reconciliation approach, several programs and courses designed, evaluated and revised for, by and with First Peoples will be offered to the student population. This innovative initiative stems directly from the UQAT and Indigenous Peoples - Action Plan 2019-2024 and is one of several institutional actions of UQAT's Land acknowledgement principle. This wide-ranging operation is already underway and will be fully completed by 2026.

UQAT has always recognized the importance of its special partnership with Indigenous peoples, and sees it as an essential part of its development.  UQAT/Christian Leduc (CNW Group/Universite du Quebec en Abitibi-Temiscamingue (UQAT))

"Through this initiative, UQAT recognizes that Indigenous knowledge is just as important as scientific knowledge. This recognition gives Indigenous perspectives a place in the programs offered at UQAT, thereby building on a plurality of knowledge", says Vincent Rousson, UQAT Rector. This collaborative work, carried out by the Dean of Studies and the Mamawi Mikimodan Service, includes the improvement of templates, guides and other tools aimed at implementing a systemic process that promotes the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives in program development, evaluation and review.

UQAT's response to various Call to Action

The deployment of Indigenous knowledge in teaching and research is a response to the many calls to action issued by the various commissions of inquiry held in Canada and Quebec. Indeed, several calls to action aimed at the academic community, and others that relate more specifically to study programs offered at UQAT, such as health sciences, social work and education, can be found in the final reports of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples (RCAP), the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC), the Inquiry Commission on relations between Indigenous Peoples and certain public services in Quebec (CERP) and the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG).

"As an academic institution, it is essential to fight against the lack of understanding of Indigenous realities. Our commitment to this endeavor is deep and unequivocal," explains Janet Mark, Strategic Advisor for Reconciliation and Indigenous Education for the Mamawi Mikimodan Service. "We have a responsibility to get involved, to bridge the gap and reduce the difference between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in terms of education. Otherwise, the inequalities experienced by Indigenous peoples will persist. Our aim is not simply to adapt, but rather to change existing structures and practices," concludes Ms. Mark.

A project already under way

A number of initiatives aimed at training students have already been in place for several years at UQAT. In nine of the University's eleven departments, specific courses focusing on Indigenous contexts, whether mandatory or optional, are offered in certain programs, and others are currently being developed. This enhancement of the courses and programs we offer is in addition to the many research projects carried out in collaboration with Indigenous partners in various fields, as well as the many initiatives undertaken to promote Indigenous languages. The Mamawi Mikimodan Service and the School of Indigenous Studies, the only university department entirely dedicated to Indigenous Studies in Quebec, are among the UQAT actors playing a key role in this area.

About the Universite du Quebec en Abitibi-Temiscamingue

For 40 years, UQAT has been an exceptional, community-based and committed university. With its three campuses, four centers and points of service in Abitibi-Temiscamingue, Nord-du-Quebec, the Upper Laurentians and Montreal, UQAT has more than 7,000 students and offers over 180 study programs, including Indigenous studies. UQAT has always recognized the importance of its special partnership with Indigenous peoples, and sees it as an essential part of its development. A good example of this is the creation in 2022 of a Vice-Rectorate for Reconciliation, International Development and Partnerships (VRRIP). By affirming, in June 2023, a representative and promising Land acknowledgement principle, but above all, by translating it into concrete actions, the University has reiterated its commitment to shaping the future jointly with First Peoples. To know more

SOURCE Universite du Quebec en Abitibi-Temiscamingue (UQAT)

For further information: Stephanie Duchesne, Director, Communication and Recruitment Services, Telephone: 819 762 0971 ext. 2222
As people across Canada begin to prepare for the holidays, more than half will face feelings of anxiety and depression

TORONTO, Dec. 6, 2023 /CNW/ - To shine a spotlight on the pressure and loneliness that many Canadians face during the holiday season, Wellness Together Canada has partnered with influential Canadians Vivek Shraya, Andrian Makhnachov and Jamie Pandit to create #RealHolidayTales.

The digital campaign aims to reach people across Canada who might be experiencing feelings of anxiety, loneliness and isolation this holiday season and let them know they are not alone and support is available.

"The holidays can be wonderful for some, and hard for others. The hustle and bustle can be very stressful, triggering difficult feelings  especially for those who may struggle with challenging family relationships," says Dr. AnnMarie Churchill, clinical social worker and President and Lead Executive Officer at Stepped Care Solutions. "There is no right way to feel or be during the holidays and being transparent about the realities many of us face can help to reduce feelings of isolation. For those who need support, Wellness Together Canada is here for you during the holidays or any time throughout the year."

To support Canadians through this holiday season, Wellness Together Canada sought the insights of Jamie, Vivek and Andrian to share their lived experiences when it comes to navigating the challenges this time of year can bring.

"I find that you can be around people, and not be alone, but still feel lonely," says Jamie Pandit (@justjamiep), transgender content creator. "There is this pressure to socialize with people because it's the holidays and you should be happy, and it's a time of celebration, but it doesn't always feel like that."

During the conversation, Andrian shares warm memories of gathering with his family in the Ukraine and the difficulties of being away from them. Vivek talks about starting new traditions with chosen family, and gives tips on taking the pressure off during an already busy time of year. And Jamie explores how her experience of the holiday season has changed as her relationships with family members have evolved over the years.

Mental health service providers nationwide continue to experience unprecedented demands as Canadians struggle to deal with the mental health impacts of financial uncertainty and complex challenges brought about by the long-term effects of the pandemic and global conflicts, among other things.

Wellness Together Canada is Canada's first and only online platform offering immediate mental health and substance use support for people of all ages, in every province and territory and in both official languages. The program provides free, 24/7 counselling support with little to no wait times.

If you or anyone you know is struggling this holiday season, visit wellnesstogether.ca.

About Wellness Together Canada

Wellness Together Canada (WTC) is a free virtual mental health and substance use program designed to support people living in Canada, and Canadians abroad with 24/7 access to barrier-free resources - all at no cost. WTC provides a range of mental health and substance use support including, access to educational content, self-guided courses, peer-to-peer support, one-to-one sessions with professional counsellors, and crisis support. The program is funded by Health Canada, and offered in partnership with Homewood Health, Kids Help Phone, and Stepped Care Solutions. For more information visit: wellnesstogether.ca.

For further information or to request an interview, please contact: Alannah Nugent, Hill & Knowlton, [email protected], +1 (437) 995-9731

SOURCE Wellness Together Canada
Five people were injured Tuesday afternoon when a school bus carrying students from Jim Falls Elementary School was involved in an accident, according to a statement by Chippewa Falls Area Unified School District Superintendent Jeff Holmes.

Emergency management personnel, school officials and representatives from the bus company were quickly alerted and responded swiftly to the scene, the statement said.

The school district reported that the bus driver and four students sustained non-life threatening injuries in the incident and two students and the driver were transported to local hospitals for further evaluation and treatment.

In addition, two of the injured students were given aid at the site and released, according to the statement.

Chippewa County Sheriff Travis Hakes said Tuesday, it was a single vehicle accident and there were no significant life-threatening injuries.

On Wednesday, Hakes said the preliminary investigation showed the bus was traveling north on 205th Street north of County Highway S when it left the road, entered the ditch and overturned onto its side. The bus was carrying 20 people, including 19 students.

The crash remains under investigation by the Chippewa County Sheriffs Office.
Chippewa County residents and some members of the Chippewa County Board Executive Committee expressed concern, anger and confusion Tuesday about a plan to relocate refugees to the Chippewa Valley.

The planned relocation has been a topic of interest in Eau Claire and surrounding areas.

World Relief Wisconsin plans to resettle 75 refugees to the area between January and September of 2024. Organization officials said the 75 people comprise about 20 families seeking refuge in America.

Fox Valley World Relief Wisconsin office director Tami McLaughlin told the Chippewa Herald in October the planned refugee relocation was to take place in Eau Claire, but the organization continues to speak publicly about relocation efforts in the "Chippewa Valley." This has led members of Chippewa County to consider the impact refugees may have if they end up in Chippewa Falls or surrounding towns in the county.

A few dozen members of the public voiced concern at Tuesday's meeting of the Chippewa County Board Executive Committee. Eleven people spoke for five minutes each during the public comment time. Except for the World Relief Wisconsin officials in the room, all speakers opposed the group's relocation efforts in the region.

Several speakers were concerned that World Relief Wisconsin could not say what countries the incoming refugees hail from until the U.S. Department of State sends a final list of people to integrate.

Some residents also expressed worry about safety issues around bringing foreigners to the area. McLaughlin has said refugees are the most highly vetted people to enter the United States, with a formal process that takes place overseas with the U.S. Department of State before they are allowed into the United States by the government.

Karen Mueller, a resident of Chippewa Falls and attorney, said Tuesday that a refugee who was a jihadi came in 2012 and became a U.S. citizen. He revealed himself when he ambushed four police officers in Fargo (North Dakota).

Mueller said she wanted to know why the organization wasnt discussing this and other stories of foreigners intending to harm U.S. citizens.

McLaughlin said World Relief Wisconsin is focused on bringing the refugees in 2024 to Eau Claire, not Chippewa County, and that the city of Eau Claire has been involved in the planning process along with World Relief Wisconsin and the U.S. Department of State since April.

She said if refugees were ever to be relocated to Chippewa County, the World Relief organization would spend time planning ahead, working with local partners to make sure that the area was ready to welcome people from abroad and that the relocation was successful for the refugees.

Concerns about refugees from Somalia were raised by several people, but the countries where refugees would come from have not been identified.

Bonnie Christensen of Chippewa Falls spoke at length about Somalia and handed out an article she wrote about her work with Somali refugees as an acupuncture practitioner in Edina. She expressed concern over the religious and cultural differences of the people she worked with there.

I'd like to unpack a little bit of Somali culture. They are Muslims by law. You cannot be anything but Muslim in Somalia. And that's the kind of refugee that they're planning to bring here. It's against the law and you will be killed  you cannot proselytize, you can't preach, you can't be a Christian in Somalia, she said. I was in South Africa, I was an exchange student there. I have seen racism. I am not a racist. I am a realist. Do not let anybody tell you that you are a racist. Look at the facts.

World Relief Wisconsin representatives, including regional director of mobilization Karen Crisler and McLaughlin, have said on numerous occasions that the group works with local organizations, landlords and employers to help the refugees secure medical care, housing, employment and education upon arrival.

World Relief Wisconsin supports the refugees for at least 90 days once they relocate, Crisler said in October, but the organization wants the refugees to be independent and self-sustaining as quickly as possible, which is part of the reason they spend time pre-planning to make sure the newcomers have what they need to succeed.

Several speakers expressed pessimism about the plan.

Duane Shoebridge of Bloomer said he believes it will take far longer to integrate refugees into their new homes, schools and jobs.

We have a refugee program. It takes five years to integrate a refugee into a culture. World Relief is going to abandon them after 90 days. We're basically dooming them to low-wage jobs indefinitely, he said. We want to protect them from that. That doesn't have to be the end result. If we knew ahead of time, if we can plan for a year or two, and say, OK, how do we keep these refugees from becoming bottom of the barrel people and being stuck there? We can plan that out, and we can help them succeed.

Executive committee member Jason Bergeron said 90 days was not enough time to assimilate to a new country, county or culture and he worried about the strain on local municipalities and public resources once the refugees were left on their own.

Obviously 90 days is not a realistic timeframe to learn a language and assimilate. At what point does that funding run out? What is your commitment long-term in terms of helping these new refugees? And if there's continual long-term needs, how long are you involved, after the 90 day window? Bergeron asked McLaughlin Tuesday.

Bergeron asked what happens to the refugees when the government monies ran out.

"All I hear is this is going to cost us money, but we have employers who are knocking our door down wanting to hire these people. They want hard workers. They want people who can pass drug tests, McLaughlin said. These people want employees and the refugees are ready to work and to become active tax-paying citizens just like everyone else.

McLaughlin said after one year in the U.S., the refugees would have lawful permanent residence status and would be eligible for state aid like any resident of the community who had recently moved to the region.

Bergeron and executive committee member Glen Sikorski asked multiple questions of McLaughlin, expressing concern over what county officials thought was a lack of time to prepare for refugees, the potential for strain on schools, first responders and city and county resources and uncertainty over where the funding would come from to support refugees long term.

McLaughlin said she hoped local residents, churches and outreach organizations would be good neighbors and embrace the refugees with varying kinds of support.

Mueller said she believed the plans and agreements were made without public input.

It was done behind the scenes and we were told by Eau Claire to voice our concerns and we went to Eau Claire to do that and they shut us out, Shoebridge said.

Mueller said she believed the city of Eau Claire had not been forthcoming about its refugee resettlement plans.

I'm here because I'm concerned about the refugee resettlement efforts and agreements of World Relief and the city of Eau Claire that they have made without the knowledge or input of the Chippewa County board of supervisors or any other counties who may be affected by these decisions. It is especially important for Chippewa County citizens, however, since part of the city of Eau Claire is located in Chippewa County, Mueller said.

Chippewa County Administrator Randy Scholz said the city of Eau Claire had not communicated with Chippewa County about its refugee relocation plans ahead of inviting World Relief to work in Eau Claire.
Ola Olukoyede, the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has lamented that seven out of 10 Nigerian students are involved in cybercrimes.

Olukayode expressed concerns over the alarming rate of Nigerian youth involved in cybercrimes while speaking with a delegation from Daar Communication PLC on Monday at EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.

He said the practice of cybercrime has become a menace and cankerworm in society.

He said internet-related crime is so prevalent that seven out 10 Nigerian students are involved in it.

He, however, called on the media to design programmes aimed at enlightening youths on the evil of the crimes.

Olukoyede also called for a wider enlightenment of youths across the country on the consequences of internet fraud.

We are looking towards Daar Communications to enlighten our youths on the evils of cyber crimes. It is worrisome that seven out of ten students today are involved in cyber crimes, said Olukoyede.

These are the youths we are preparing to be leaders of tomorrow. The media should not relent in enlightening them on the evils of such criminal practices

Last month, the anti-graft agency arrested several students while raiding off-campus hostels of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).

Up to 70 individuals were arrested as suspects of fraud-related offences.
Femi Gbajabiamila, chief of staff (CoS) to President Bola Tinubu, says he lives in his private residence contrary to claims that there is a provision for the renovation of his house in the 2024 appropriation bill.

Gbajabiamila made the clarification in a post shared on his X page on Tuesday, following social media reports that N10 billion has been earmarked for the renovation of the residence of the chief of staff to the president.

I have seen social media commentary regarding the 2024 Appropriation Bill, particularly the provisions under the Office of the Chief of Staff to the President, he wrote.

Owing to the erroneous nature of these reports, it has become necessary to clarify that there is no provision in the 2024 Appropriation Bill for the renovation of any residence for the Chief of Staff to the President. I live in my private residence.

The sums mischievously quoted by online bloggers and fake news merchants are for renovating the Presidential Quarters in Dodan Barracks and the Vice Presidents Lodge in Lagos, to overhaul the information management and communications facilities in the Presidency to meet modern standards and to provide vehicles for the staff of the Presidency.

The sums proposed for these projects are clearly stated in the budget proposal and bear no resemblance to the deceptive online commentary.

He added that the Tinubu administration welcomes and encourages scrutiny of government expenditure, noting that the budget proposal is publicly available.

However, healthy public debate about government actions requires us to be responsible with our utterances and engage based on facts rather than insinuations and falsehoods, he added.

President Tinubu on November 29, presented the 2024 budget proposal of N27 trillion to the national assembly for consideration.

The 2024 proposed budget showed that the presidency through the office of the chief of staff is expected to spend N5 billion for the renovation of Dodan Barracks Presidential Lodge and N5 billion for the renovation of vice President quarters in Lagos.

Dodan Barracks was the official seat of government under former military heads of state, including Generals Yakubu Gowon, Murtala Muhammed, Olusegun Obasanjo and Muhammadu Buhari, as well as the supreme military headquarters during the Nigerian civil war.

Since the government relocated its capital to Abuja in 1992, Dodan Barracks has housed the State House liaison office.

The office acts as a vital link between the presidency and the southwest geopolitical zone, fostering strong communication and collaboration.

Additionally, the liaison office provides essential protocol and logistical support for high-ranking government officials visiting or passing through Lagos.

Analysis of budget documents reveals a significant increase in funding for the office of the chief of staff in the proposed 2024 budget.

This allocation, currently awaiting deliberation by the national assembly, stands at N21.22 billion, marking the highest in the past five years.

In 2020, the federal government allocated N24.35 million to the office of the chief of staff. The figure increased significantly in 2021 to N76.55 million.

The upward trend continued in 2022 and 2023, with budget allocations of N526.47 million and N517.95 million, respectively.
A Tehran court has ordered the United States government to pay nearly $50 billion in damages for assassinating a top Iranian general, Qasem Soleimani, nearly four years ago, the judiciary said on Wednesday.

Then-US president Donald Trump ordered a drone strike near Baghdad airport that killed Soleimani, 62, and his Iraqi lieutenant Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis on January 3, 2020.

Days later, Iran retaliated by firing missiles at bases in Iraq housing American and other coalition troops. No US personnel were killed but Washington said dozens suffered traumatic brain injuries.

The Iranian judiciarys Mizan Online news agency said that a Tehran court had sentenced the US government to pay $49.7 billion in material, moral and punitive damages after a lawsuit filed by more than 3,300 Iranians.

The court found 42 individuals and legal persons guilty, including Trump, the US government, former Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo and former Defence Secretary, Mark Esper, Mizan added.

Soleimani commanded the Quds Force, the foreign operations arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

He was one of the countrys most popular public figures who spearheaded Irans Middle East operations and was seen as a hero of the 1980-88 Iran-Iraq war.

Iranian courts have now handed down several rulings against the United States.

Last month an Iranian court ordered the US government to pay $420 million in compensation to victims of an abortive 1980 operation to free hostages held at the US embassy.

In August, a Tehran court demanded Washington pay $330 million in damages for planning a coup in 1980 against the fledgling Islamic republic.

Those suits follow a series of multi-billion-dollar compensation rulings against Tehran by US courts.

In 2016, the US Supreme Court ordered that Iranian assets frozen in the United States should be paid to victims of attacks Washington has blamed on Tehran, including the 1983 bombing of a US Marine barracks in Beirut and a 1996 blast in Saudi Arabia.

Tehran denies all responsibility for the attacks.

It has appealed to international justice to help unlock the funds of several Iranian individuals and companies that have been frozen by Washington.

In March the International Court of Justice ruled that Washingtons freezing of funds was manifestly unreasonable.

But it ruled it had no jurisdiction to unblock nearly $2 billion in Iranian central bank assets frozen by the United States.

Iran and Washington have had no diplomatic relations since the aftermath of the 1979 revolution.

AFP
The 10 Republicans who signed an official-looking certificate falsely claiming Donald Trump won the 2020 Wisconsin presidential election have retracted the document, acknowledged Joe Biden won the election and admitted their actions furthered a scheme to illegally overturn the election under a legal settlement announced Wednesday.

As part of the settlement in the civil case with the liberal law firm Law Forward, the 10 Republicans agreed to never serve as presidential electors in any presidential election involving Trump, who is seeking the partys nomination next year. They have also agreed to cooperate with any ongoing or future U.S. Department of Justice investigations related to the 2020 presidential election.

Law Forward said the settlement is the first of its kind in the nation, using civil law to redress the defendants unlawful actions, including by falsely assuming the office of presidential electors for the State of Wisconsin.

The settlement, announced by Law Forward, Georgetown University Law Centers Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection, and the Madison firm Stafford Rosenbaum, was accompanied by a cache of documents including photographs of the electors signing the documents, text messages in which some expressed doubts about signing the documents and other messages revealing how the plan came together.

The slate of Republican electors gathered at the state Capitol on Dec. 14, 2020, to sign documents declaring Trump the winner on the same day Democratic electors cast the states actual Electoral College votes for Joe Biden. Law Forward sued the group last year, alleging the Republicans and two attorneys who advised them broke multiple laws, including impersonating a public official, public nuisance and engaging in conspiracy.

The Elector Defendants took the foregoing action because they were told that it was necessary to preserve their electoral votes in the event a court challenge may later change the outcome of the election in Wisconsin, according to the statement from the 10 Republicans.

The statement affirms that the 10 Democratic electors who cast votes for Biden were the duly elected presidential electors for the State of Wisconsin for the 2020 presidential election.

We oppose any attempt to undermine the publics faith in the ultimate results of the 2020 presidential election, the statement concludes. We hereby withdraw the documents we executed on December 14, 2020, and request that they be disregarded by the public and all entities to which they were submitted.

Documents have underscored efforts by those in Trumps inner circle to circumvent the Electoral College process in several states, including Wisconsin, after the 2020 election, despite recounts and court decisions affirming that Biden defeated Trump in the battleground state by almost 21,000 votes.

Those who signed the false documents in Wisconsin asserting Trump won are: former state GOP chair Andrew Hitt; Robert Spindell, a Republican member of the Wisconsin Elections Commission; 8th Congressional District GOP chair Kelly Ruh; former 1st Congressional District GOP vice chair Carol Brunner; former Dane County Republican Party chair Scott Grabins; 3rd Congressional District GOP chair Bill Feehan; second vice chair of the state GOP Kathy Kiernan; former 6th Congressional District GOP chair Darryl Carlson; former 7th Congressional District GOP vice chair Pam Travis; and Mary Buestrin, former member of the Republican National Committee.

Tricked and misled

The Wisconsin electors were tricked and misled into participating in what became the alternate elector scheme and would have never taken any actions had we known that there were ulterior reasons beyond preserving an ongoing legal strategy, Hitt said in a statement.

Fake elector settlement Under the terms of the settlement, defendants Andrew Hitt, Robert F. Spindell, Jr., Bill Feehan, Kelly Ruh, Carol Brunner, Edward Scott Grabins, Kathy Kiernan, Darryl Carlson, Pam Travis, and Mary Buestrin agreed to transmit the following statement to the same public officials and government offices that receive votes from the Electoral College: On December 14, 2020, in compliance with requests received from the Trump campaign and the Republican Party of Wisconsin, we met at the Wisconsin State Capitol and executed a document titled Certificate of the Votes of the 2020 Electors from Wisconsin. That document stated, in part, that we were the duly elected and qualified Electors for President and Vice President of the United States of America from the State of Wisconsin. The Elector Defendants took the foregoing action because they were told that it was necessary to preserve their electoral votes in the event a court challenge may later change the outcome of the election in Wisconsin. That document was then used as part of an attempt to improperly overturn the 2020 presidential election results. The duly elected presidential electors for the State of Wisconsin for the 2020 presidential election were: Meg Andrietsch, Shelia Stubbs, Ronald Martin, Mandela Barnes, Khary Penebaker, Mary Arnold, Patty Schachtner, Shannon Holsey, Tony Evers, and Benjamin Wikler. We hereby reaffirm that Joseph R. Biden, Jr. won the 2020 presidential election and that we were not the duly elected presidential electors for the State of Wisconsin for the 2020 presidential election. We oppose any attempt to undermine the publics faith in the ultimate results of the 2020 presidential election. We hereby withdraw the documents we executed on December 14, 2020, and request that they be disregarded by the public and all entities to which they were submitted

The lawsuit was initially scheduled to go to trial next September, two months before the 2024 presidential election.

Wisconsin voters have been awaiting accountability for three years, and it is beyond time to hold those who perpetrated this scheme responsible for their actions, Stafford Rosenbaum attorney Jeff Mandell, board president of Law Forward, said in a statement. This settlement agreement provides one piece of that accountability and helps ensure that a similar effort to subvert our democracy will never happen again.

Under the settlement, the 10 Republicans will not have to pay any damages or attorney fees. The lawsuit initially sought more than $2.4 million in damages, including $2,000 fines for the Republicans and their attorneys, and up to $200,000 in punitive damages for each plaintiff.

Law Forward said claims brought against the two attorneys who aided the electors  Trump campaign adviser Kenneth Chesebro and Wisconsin attorney Jim Troupis, who represented Trump in a failed effort to overturn the states 2020 election results  will continue.

I will not be supporting Trump in 2024, Hitt said. We have serious problems facing this country and we need a president who will not repeat 2020 and will focus on tackling those difficult issues.

State Republicans have said the meeting took place on the advice of attorneys and was based on precedent  specifically, when Hawaii electors from both parties convened in public regarding a genuine dispute over the 1960 presidential election in that state.

The meeting occurred after a Nov. 18, 2020, memo from Chesebro detailing the plan to Troupis.

Clandestine meeting

Text messages revealed in the settlement show that the Republican officials were trying to stay out of the public eye and had a four-man security team meet them at the Republican Party of Wisconsin headquarters before they headed to the Capitol to sign the documents on Dec. 14, 2020.

Please keep confidential, Mark Jefferson, executive director of the Republican Party of Wisconsin, says to the group the night before they signed the documents. We are being asked not to draw attention if we can help it.

In another text exchange, Jefferson tells Spindell that he and Hitt are the most recognizable of the fake electors, adding that they might be better off entering the Capitol separately from the rest of the group.

Ruh, one of the signees, said the group was escorted by armed security guards twice to the Capitol because it was locked the first time. She said a Republican staffer let them in the second time.

The documents released as part of the settlement also show reluctance on the part of some officials to sign the fake certificate.

I feel like I have to do it otherwise there will be a target on my back in my own district for the chair, Carlson says after being asked how he feels about signing the documents. Also, it could piss off the (Trump) base.

The cache of documents includes some already revealed to the U.S. House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the Capitol by Trump supporters. In one exchange, Hitt says about the Trump campaigns effort to promote fake electors, These guys are up to no good and its gonna fail miserably.

Feel like a drug dealer

Asked why he signed the documents despite his stated reluctance, Hitt told the Wisconsin State Journal that a longtime attorney for the state Republican Party said if they didnt sign the documents and a court ruled in favor of Trump, Wisconsin would have to forfeit its electoral votes.

Another text shows Hitt and Jefferson discussing where they would sign the documents. Hitt says they should avoid signing them in the Senate parlor to avoid passing the office of former Minority Senate Leader Janet Bewley, a Democrat.

The effort culminated with a plot to pass then-Vice President Mike Pence slates of fake electors as Pence was set to confirm the presidential election results on Jan. 6, 2021.

Another document released along with the settlement shows the text exchange between former Wisconsin Republican Party staffer Alesha Guenther and Hitt as she delivered the paperwork to Washington, D.C.

5 minutes until I make the drop. I feel like a drug dealer, she joked in a Jan. 5, 2021, text message to Hitt.

U.S. Sen. Ron Johnsons chief of staff told Pences aide on Jan. 6, 2021, that the senator needed to pass the vice president documents falsely stating Trump won Wisconsin, text messages released last summer by the House Jan. 6 committee revealed. The texts came as the vice president was set to confirm Biden as the winner of the 2020 election. Pences staff rejected them.

Charges have been filed against fake electors in Michigan and Georgia. Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul has remained tight-lipped about whether charges are forthcoming in Wisconsin or whether an investigation exists at all.

In light of Wednesdays settlement, officials with the Democratic Party of Wisconsin and liberal group A Better Wisconsin Together renewed their call to Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, who reappointed Spindell to another five-year term on the state elections commission in 2021, to remove him from the agency.

LeMahieu did not immediately respond to a request for comment Wednesday.

Elections 101: Video series explains how elections are carried out in Wisconsin The Wisconsin Elections Commission put together the following series of instructional videos and accompanying lesson plans for use in high school civics classes and the general public. Elections overview An overview of elections administration in Wisconsin. Voting Security Let's take a look at how we maintain security and integrity with all of our elections. Nuts and bolts The ins-and-outs of voter processes like registering to vote and requesting a ballot to vote absentee. A Day at the Polls See what it is like to go to the polls and vote.




Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has vowed that the unintentional killing of several civilians in an airstrike by the Nigerian Army in Agabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State will not stop the fight against insurgency and terrorism.





The minister made the vow when he visited victims of the airstrike on Wednesday.





Matawalle, together with the ministrys Permanent Secretary, Dr Ibrahim Kana, led a high-level delegation to the state to convey the Federal Governments sympathies to the victims.





Mr Henshaw Ogubike, the ministrys Director of Press and Public Relations, revealed this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.





While denouncing the tragedy, the minister stated that the struggle against insurgency and terrorism would continue.





He added that the terrible occurrence will not dissuade the administration from fighting terrorism.





We are not going to relent in our fight against terrorism because these criminals must be defeated. We are going to continue fighting the criminals till we succeed against banditry and other criminalities in this country.





Matawalle, who was also at the Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital in Kaduna, where the injured victims were being treated, stated that the visit was on President Bola Tinubus instruction.





He assured the Kaduna State Government of the Federal Governments commitment to assisting the victims families.





He added that the government would form an inquiry panel to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident to prevent it from reoccurring.





In his reaction, Governor Uba Sani, represented by Deputy Governor Dr Hadiza Balarabe, expressed heartfelt condolences to the affected families and assured of support to the victims relatives.
Former presidential adviser to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Obol Okoi Obono-Obla, has called for the merger of the leading opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Pary (PDP) with Labour Party (LP) as well as other parties to form a major opposition in the country.

In a statement, Obono-Obla, who is the ruling party stalwart, said he has welcomed a similar call made by Atiku Abubakar, who was the presidential candidate of PDP in the last general election.

He said, I fervently welcome the call by the former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, for the merger of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) and other motley political parties into a single political party to fight the All Progressives Congress (APC). That is a step in the right direction.

Obono-Obla said the call resonates with his previous call on Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, who was the presidential candidate of LP, to align their political forces rather than continue to waste precious time sulking and grumbling over their defeat in the February 25, 2023, general elections.

According to Obono-Obla, the APC has grown into a behemoth, adding that he does not foresee it being defeated by fragmented and poorly organised PDP, LP, SDP and NNPP in the next election.

He said he believes that the APC has somewhat deviated from its original ideology, spectrum and perspective.

He said that APC has become a mumbo jumbo of all sorts of varied political interests, ideologies and strange political followers, which has blurred its progressive credentials.

The merger of these opposition political parties would undoubtedly make the leadership of APC sit up.

Presently, there is a lot of rumbling within the APC over the nonchalant way the leadership has been treating its dedicated and committed membership.

APC has elevated and indeed institutionalised political prostitution and opportunism to the highest level ever seen in the political history of Nigeria.

The activist accused the ruling party of always giving its tickets to certain people who join the Party over its own committed, dedicated and faithful membership.

He has also accused the party of appointing people as Ministers who joined the party less than two years before an election over people who were there as far back as 2010 and gave all to the Party.

He believes that the merger of these political parties will catalyse the reform of APC and contribute to the deepening and flourishing of a new democratic culture in the country.




The Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu says one million vulnerable households in Kogi State have benefited from the Federal Governments Conditional Cash Transfer as part of efforts to ameliorate the impact of the harsh economic situation in the country.





Edu disclosed this in Kabawa, a suburb of Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, while fielding questions from journalists on Tuesday evening.





The Minister, who had earlier in the day officially kicked-off the Federal Governments Grant for the Vulnerable, disclosed that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration was targeting lifting at least 50,000 000 people out of poverty within the next 42 months.





She pointed out that the Government was bringing on board the end hunger program which would help to renew the hope for the very poor and vulnerable people in the society.





For the grant which was just given earlier today, the Federal Government was able to support the vulnerable and poorest of the poor in Kogi State.





For the first batch, we have 10,000 beneficiaries, while the second batch will commence immediately. For petty traders across various homes, 1000 families have been given the needed support through their various channels, while others will get their intervention through their youth leadership, women groups and many more.





The idea is that the Federal Government does not want to do programs that are not felt by the grassroots. The only essence of governance is to bring relief to the people.





That is the reason for social protection. We are a government that is interested in the people. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is 100 percent committed to this course. We wont rest on our oars until everyone that is expected to be reached out is truly reached.





We are hoping that the support we have been able to give them today will help them grow their petty businesses and support their families, especially their children to go to school, Edu added.




Minister of State for Defense, Bello Matawalle, has challenged the Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal to prove where the Sokoto Federal High Court ordered the retrieval of 50 vehicles impounded from his residence.





Recall that Lawal had ordered the removal of about 50 vehicles from Matawalles residence in the state.





Governor Lawal had claimed that the vehicles were owned by the government but Matawalle challenged the decision of his successor at the Federal High Court sitting in Sokoto.





Recall that the Zamfara State government had held onto the said cars, claiming their actions were on the orders of the court.





However, the minister described the remark by his successor as misleading and a lie against the court.





In a statement by his spokesman, Ibrahim Dosara, the Minister insisted that nowhere in the judgement was the invasion of his private residence okayed.





The statement reads partly: There is nowhere in the judgment delivered by the Federal High Court Sokoto judicial Division on Friday in the suit filed by the immediate past governor Bello Mohammed Matawalle Maradun on the breach of his fundamental rights and that of his family by the present government of Zamfara State under Dauda Lawal Dare where the court ordered force breaking of his residences in Gusau and his home town Maradun, to take away his properties and those of his family, including 50 vehicles donated to him and the presidential candidate then, Bola Ahmed Tinubu by friends and well-wishers for the campaign, being the Northwest coordinator for Tinubu/ Shettima Campaign.





In view of the above, I am challenging the governor to release any of the court documents which stated the order to retrieve the vehicles in question.





What the Federal High Court Sokoto Judicial Division did was dismiss the case filed by former Governor Bello Matawalle, following his decision to withdraw the case after a series of advice and consultations with family, friends, political associates and supporters.
The House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions has issued a warrant of arrest on the Central Bank Governor, Mr Olayemi Cardoso, the Accountant General of the Federation, Mrs Oluwatoyin Madein and 17 others for refusing to appear before it to answer questions on their operations.

This followed the adoption of a motion by Rep Fred Agbedi (PDP-Bayelsa) at the committees hearing on Tuesday.

Moving the motion, Agbedi said that the arrest warrant had become inevitable following the attitude of the invitees.

He said that the parliament worked with time and the CEOs had been invited four times, but failed to respond.

He said that the CEOs should be brought to appear before the committee by the Inspector General of Police through a warrant of arrest after due diligence by the Speaker, Rep Tajudeen Abbas.

In his ruling, the Chairman of the Committee, Rep Micheal Irom (APC-Cross River), said that the IG should ensure the CEOs were brought before the committee on December 14.

Earlier, the petitioner, Mr Fidelis Uzowanem, said that the petition was anchored on the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) report of 2021.

We took up the challenge to examine the report and discovered that what NEITI put together is a report is only consolidation of fraud that has been going on in the oil and gas industry.

It dates back to 2016 because was have been following and we put up a petition to this committee to examine what has happened.

The 2024 budget of 27.5 trillion that has been proposed can be confidently funded from the recoverable amount that we identified in the NEITI report.

It is basically a concealment of illegal transactions that took place in NNPCL; they have been in a sink with some oil companies where some companies that did not produce crude were paid cash core, an amount paid for crude oil production, he said.




The Bauchi State Police Command has revealed that the 500-level Geology student of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, who was stabbed and later died in the hospital, was trying to retrieve his girlfriends handbag from some assailants when the incident happened.





Recall that the final year Geology student, Joseph Agabaidu, according to multiple sources on the campus, was stabbed by some assailants while trying to steal his mobile phone.





Agabaidu, who hails from Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State but is based in Benue State, was said to be the eldest among four children of his family who school at ATBU.





He was said to be returning to his lodge situated around the Yelwan Tudu market in the Yelwa area, a suburb of the Bauchi metropolis, at about 7.00 pm on Saturday, when he was attacked and was rushed to the hospital for medical treatment but could not survive the severe injuries from the knife.





The incident sparked a protest among students of the school who came out in their numbers at the Yelwa Campus to express their anger at the inadequate security in and around the campus and to call for the attention of the management and the government.





Following the protest, the management, in a statement signed by the Deputy Registrar Academic, Fatima Abdullahi, shut down the school and directed students to vacate the campus immediately because the protest carried out by miscreants disrupted the peace being enjoyed on the campus.





But the police, in a statement signed and made available to journalists on Wednesday, by its Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Wakil, said that the deceased was with his girlfriend when assailants whose identity and number are still unknown snatched her handbag containing her mobile phone.





Wakil added that when the deceased tried to retrieve his girlfriends bag, they stabbed him on the side of his chest but he later died while on admission at the ATBU Teaching Hospital.





He said: Commissioner of Police Bauchi State Command, CP Auwal Mohammed received in the audience the leadership of two student bodies (NUBAS and SUG ) in his office at the State Command Headquarters.





Their visits were prompted by the recent incident which occurred on 2nd December 2023 where some unknown persons, numbers not ascertained, snatched a handbag containing a mobile phone belonging to a lady, one Philomena Ahobee (28), a student of Abubakar Tatari Polytechnic, Bauchi.





As a result of which her boyfriend, Agbaidu Joseph, (28) of Anguwan Ngas who is a student of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, tried to help her to retrieve the handbag containing the phone. The assailant(s) stabbed him on the left side of his chest with a sharp knife.





The victim was rushed to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital, Bauchi for treatment but he was certified dead while on admission by a medical doctor.





The PPRO said that the leadership of the students union while addressing the CP, kicked against the violent protest by some erring students of the university and applauded the CP for his swift response and for nipping it in the bud with the violent protesters.





He said that the student leaders presented a letter of request to the Commissioner of Police soliciting more security presence around their communities and in his response, the Commissioner of Police began by observing a minute of silence in honor of the deceased.





Wakil said that while accepting the letter, the CP assured them of the deployment of the Intelligence and operational assets of the Command to the affected areas and also ordered the posting of more personnel and patrol vans for constant visibility patrol in the area.





The Commissioner of Police reiterated that the basic obligation of the police is to protect the lives and properties of the citizens, excessive use of force to quench violence is not the only last available option to a police officer in matters of conflict and crisis resolution.





He said that in the process of policing society, certain unavoidable problems come to the fore, saying that even at such, there is a need for utmost demonstration of professionalism, he said.





He quoted the police boss as saying: Right cannot be fought through violence but by way of reconciliation.





According to him, the Police commissioner said that it was wrong for the students to have taken laws into their own hands in a matter that only the higher institutions and other relevant stakeholders can adjudicate, thereby creating a vacuum for unscrupulous persons to hijack the protest and turn it into a violent one leading to a confrontation with the school authority.





The Commissioner of Police, CP Auwal Muhammed, assured that efforts are being intensified to apprehend the culprit(s) that perpetrated the inhumane dastardly act on the deceased and further assured that justice will be served unfailingly, he said.




Vice President Kashim Shettima has endorsed the use of a non-kinetic method to combat insecurity in the South East region of the country.





This is in addition to other steps that security agencies are already implementing.





He made the statement when a group led by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, paid a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa.





The delegation from the Peace In South East Project (PISE-P) visited the Vice President to present a proposal and invite him to the inauguration of the project, which proposes a non-kinetic solution to the issue in the South East region.





VP Shettima explained the merits of using a non-kinetic strategy to deal with the security situation in the South East, claiming that it will spare the region from an everlasting war.





He stated: Unless we want to engage in an endless war of attrition, a non-kinetic solution to the crisis in the South East must be explored and deployed. The most atrocious of wars are at the end of the day sorted out on the negotiation table.





It is how you build bridges that will determine how far you go as a people and society. We have to reach out to the youths; we have to empower them. Once we empower them, the crisis, the agitation, and insecurity will vanish.





Earlier in his speech, Kalu stressed the need for a non-kinetic strategy to tackle the regions security concerns.




Mallam Jibrin Ndace, Director General of Voice of Nigeria, VON, has called for effective coordination between the media and the military in addressing insecurity in Nigeria.





He made this statement shortly after the launching of projects carried out by the Nigerian Armys Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) in Minna, Niger State.





The task of securing Nigeria can be achieved through good reportage of activities of the military. I plead with my colleagues in the media for maximum cooperation to promote full activities of the Nigerian Army, he added.





Mallam Ndace also praised the TRADOC Commandants gesture of commissioning blocks of flats built to improve the welfare of military personnel.





The TRADOC also recognized Malam Jibrin Baba Ndace, Director General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), for his considerable commitment to promoting the activities of the Nigerian Army.





The award was presented by representatives of the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Sani Gambo Mohammed, emphasizing that the DG had a critical part in the success of military operations against insurgency throughout his service as a field reporter with the Army.





The Nigerian Army recognized the DGs exceptional efforts, thanking him for his tremendous support, particularly in their attempts to restore the nations glory.
Bashir Ahmad, former special assistant on digital communications to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has come under intense criticisms over his comments on the recent bombing of villagers in Kaduna.

On Sunday, several residents were killed and scores injured when air strikes were launched on Tundun Biri community in Igabi LGA of Kaduna state.

The villagers were reportedly commemorating the birth of Prophet Mohammad when the jet dropped the bomb that led to the death of several persons.

Some reports have put the death toll from the incident at over 120.

The Nigerian Army accepted responsibility for the incident, stating that its troops were on a routine mission against terrorists when the "mistake" occurred.

Reacting to the incident, Ahmad, via his X (formerly known as Twitter) page, said the army "cannot kill 126 civilians and call it a mistake", while calling for an investigation into the incident.

"Haba! You can't kill 126 innocent souls - a hundred and twenty-six civilians, and just call it a mistake. I can't even remember a time when the troops killed such a number of terrorists anywhere in this country at once. @HQNigerianArmy, Nigerians are waiting to hear from you how this 'mistake' will be corrected and what measures you'd put in place to prevent a recurrence," Ahmad wrote.

Some X users tackled Ahmad for refusing to criticise previous incidents of accidental bombing by the military under the Buhari administration.

In 2017, the former presidential spokesperson posted a statement wherein Buhari expressed regrets over an accidental bombing by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) that killed residents of Rann community in Borno state.

In January 17, 2017, the NAF plane dropped two bombs in the middle of Rann, which hosted thousands of internally displaced persons (IDP).

The incident left 126 people - including aid workers and refugees - dead, and many more injured.

Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) said the death toll was probably as high as 170.

During the Buhari administration, over 300 civilians were reportedly killed in at least 10 cases of accidental air strikes carried out by NAF personnel hounding insurgents.

SEE REACTIONS:

It happened 14 times with a total casualty figure exceeding 200 pple during the 8-year tenure of the admin in which you served.



Not ONCE did you ask this question on any of those FOURTEEN occasions.



Please sit down at the back with this your latter day activism https://t.co/sXfzticHlO  20.10.2020 (@I_Am_Ilemona) December 4, 2023

It happened 14 times with a total casualty figure exceeding 200 pple during the 8-year tenure of the admin in which you served.



Not ONCE did you ask this question on any of those FOURTEEN occasions.



Please sit down at the back with this your latter day activism https://t.co/sXfzticHlO  20.10.2020 (@I_Am_Ilemona) December 4, 2023

It happened 14 times with a total casualty figure exceeding 200 pple during the 8-year tenure of the admin in which you served.



Not ONCE did you ask this question on any of those FOURTEEN occasions.



Please sit down at the back with this your latter day activism https://t.co/sXfzticHlO  20.10.2020 (@I_Am_Ilemona) December 4, 2023

It happened 14 times with a total casualty figure exceeding 200 pple during the 8-year tenure of the admin in which you served.



Not ONCE did you ask this question on any of those FOURTEEN occasions.



Please sit down at the back with this your latter day activism https://t.co/sXfzticHlO  20.10.2020 (@I_Am_Ilemona) December 4, 2023

It happened 14 times with a total casualty figure exceeding 200 pple during the 8-year tenure of the admin in which you served.



Not ONCE did you ask this question on any of those FOURTEEN occasions.



Please sit down at the back with this your latter day activism https://t.co/sXfzticHlO  20.10.2020 (@I_Am_Ilemona) December 4, 2023

It happened 14 times with a total casualty figure exceeding 200 pple during the 8-year tenure of the admin in which you served.



Not ONCE did you ask this question on any of those FOURTEEN occasions.



Please sit down at the back with this your latter day activism https://t.co/sXfzticHlO  20.10.2020 (@I_Am_Ilemona) December 4, 2023

You emerging as an opposition was not in my permutation and combination https://t.co/TKeQ9p3O8G  Edmund Olotu of the small Bag (@pyjama_ceo) December 4, 2023

There were about 16 miscalculated air strikes between sept 2021 and Jan 2023 under the regime of your principal with innocent civilians as poor casualties and you were mute. So what happened now ? Cat released your tongue ?

May the dead rest in peace



Read more here on how https://t.co/cj3bAVhsgS  Deborah Tolu-Kolawole GenZ (@DeborahToluwase) December 4, 2023

Bashir is one of the biggest hypocrites in Nigeria, & Im glad that Arewa is dragging his ass today. I couldnt fold my arms & not tell a President Peter Obi the truth. For 8 years, 8 solid years, defenseless Arewas were slaughtered throughout the North.



More Arewa were https://t.co/F9pZUxBXFJ  NEFERTITI (@firstladyship) December 4, 2023
A Burlington County man was sentenced Monday to 30 years in state prison for fatally shooting his friend in 2020, authorities said.

Police found Barry Barino, 28, outside the rear door of his Willingboro Township home on Oct. 8, 2020, with a gunshot wound to the head, according to the Burlington County Prosecutors Office. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Barino and Kwacey Q. Owens, 32, of Willingboro, were acquaintances, authorities said.

Owens had been inside Barinos home a short time earlier before luring him outside to kill him, authorities said. A .45-caliber pistol used in the shooting was recovered inside a home where Owens had been staying, authorities said.

Owens was charged with Barinos killing 12 days after the shooting and has been held in the Burlington County Jail in Mount Holly since that time, officials said.

In September, a jury found Owens guilty on charges of murder, and weapons-related offenses, the office said. Owens also pleaded guilty to two counts of certain persons not to have weapons, officials said.

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Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com.
Two million dollars in tribal gambling funds set aside for two Wisconsin tribes remained in limbo Tuesday as state lawmakers sought additional dialogue with tribal leaders over ongoing tribal sovereignty disputes in northern Wisconsin.

The Legislatures budget committee met Tuesday to take up a handful of departmental requests, including one from the state Department of Administration seeking the release of $1 million each for the Lac du Flambeau and Bad River Bands of Lake Superior Chippewa.

However, committee co-chair Sen. Howard Marklein, R-Spring Green, said lawmakers would not be voting on the matter.

Marklein said Sens. Mary Felzkowski, R-Tomahawk, and Romaine Quinn, R-Cameron, as well as Rep. Chanz Green, R-Grand View, have sent letters to tribal leaders to discuss the funding request along with concerns over a road easement dispute and a recent federal court ruling that removed tribal properties from the tax rolls.

Before taking any action this item, we want to allow this dialogue to take place, Marklein said.

In a letter Tuesday to Lac du Flambeau Tribal President John Johnson Sr., Felzkowski pointed to an an ongoing dispute between the tribe and the town of Lac du Flambeau over right-of-way easements.

Easements on four northern Wisconsin roads maintained by the town expired more than 10 years ago, which led the tribe on Jan. 31 to block portions of the roads that cross sections of tribal land.

Barricades came down in March after the two sides reached a temporary agreement that included the town paying the tribe $60,000 to keep the roads open for 90 days as parties worked toward a permanent solution.

Democratic Gov. Tony Evers and U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Madison, this summer expressed frustration and disappointment over the lack of collective work done to resolve this issue permanently, despite repeated and continued attempts by our offices to assist in resolving the issue.

Felzkowski echoed those frustrations in her letter to Johnson.

I cant, and wont, proclaim that either side of this conflict is the right side versus the wrong side, nor is it that simple, but I can say that in Wisconsin, we sit down and try to hash out our differences, because we know that is the way Forward, Felzkowski wrote in the letter, which her office provided to the Wisconsin State Journal. In this spirit, I look to a promise from you that we can reset this relationship for the sake of our shared constituents.

In a separate letter sent Tuesday to Bad River Tribal Chairman Robert Blanchard, Quinn noted a 2022 U.S. Court of Appeals decision that held that all real property owned by tribal members within certain tribal lands, including the Bad River Tribe, are nontaxable, regardless of any chain of custody.

Quinn noted concerns raised by constituents over the undue tax burden they now face and the uncertainty the decision has caused in their communities and relations with the tribe.

The ruling has affected several communities, in particular the town of Sanborn, which sits entirely within the Bad River reservation. With tribal residents removed from its tax rolls, the communitys remaining residents saw their taxes skyrocket.

While some efforts have been made to mitigate the impact on non-tribal residents, including a temporary freeze on the towns tax levy, Quinn said what is lacking is an encompassing, long-term commitment to provide funding for services received by town residents who no longer are required to pay property taxes, and are then subsidized by taxpaying residents.

We are ready and willing to sit down and discuss with you and local officials as partners to ensure the viability of the affected local governments, for the well-being of all residents and to carry out the necessary work that our constituents expect, Quinn continued.

The tribal leaders did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday.

Casino revenue

Wisconsins 11 tribal governments, all of which operate casinos, make payments to the state based on a percentage of their net gaming revenue. Those funds largely go to the general fund and to various state agencies to be used for programs that benefit tribal communities.

In addition, the states 2023-25 biennial budget sets aside $11 million in tribal gambling revenue as supplemental funds to be awarded to the states tribes. In September, the state Department of Administration requested those funds be transferred to the tribes through the recently created Tribal Assistance Grants program.

The budget committee in October voted 8-4, along party lines, to award $1 million each to nine of the states 11 tribes  excluding the Bad River and Lac du Flambeau tribes.

Adverse actions

Marklein and fellow committee co-chair Rep. Mark Born, R-Beaver Dam, said last month the committee did not release the funds because the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa have taken adverse actions against their fellow Wisconsinites.

While we respect their autonomy as a tribe, we must also respect the taxpayers who are suffering as a result of the tribes decisions, the lawmakers said in a November joint statement. They have prevented access to private properties, levied unreasonable fees on local municipalities, and are causing skyrocketing property taxes all due to their actions.

In a Nov. 13 letter to the co-chairs, Johnson and Blanchard wrote to object to the recent discriminatory act perpetrated against us by the State of Wisconsin.

We urge you in the strongest terms possible to take immediate efforts to rectify this situation, the leaders wrote.

The tribal leaders sent a separate letter to Evers calling for the release of the funds, noting that litigation would be explored if the state does not release the funds. Evers has since called on state lawmakers to approve the withheld grant funding.

Today in history: Dec. 5 1932: Albert Einstein 1933: Prohibition 1952: The Great Smog of London 1984: "Beverly Hills Cop" 2009: Amanda Knox 2013: Nelson Mandela 2017: John Conyers 2018: George H.W. Bush 2020: Donald Trump 2021: Bob Dole
UPDATE: There is only one branch closure that closed in 2023, not four as was originally stated. We regret the error.

----

Bank of America is closing more than 100 branches in the U.S. by the end of this year, including one location in New Jersey.

The bank, with its headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina, has already closed 95 branches this year and plans to close 15 more by the end of 2023.

Bank of America plans to close up to 134 branches by 2024, showing that the bank is looking to decrease their retail banking footprint.

The trend of closing down physical bank branches has been going on since 2010 and has accelerated since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused labor shortages and decreased foot traffic.

Although Bank of America is closing down physical branches, it is trying to meet customer demand for online banking options.

Here is the list of bank branches along with their locations that Bank of America has closed or plans to close in New Jersey in 2023 and 2024:

Branches in New Jersey that have already closed, according to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency:

288 North Broad St., Elizabeth

Branches in New Jersey that are scheduled to close within the next year, according to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency:

3140 Princeton Pike, Lawrence Township

296 Summerhill Road, Spotswood

904 River Road, New Milford

There is also one additional branch in Hoboken that is relocating to another part of the city. According to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, those addresses are below:

Old Address: 1 Firehouse Plaza, Hoboken

New Address: 55 Washington Street, Hoboken

These are the numbers of remaining bank branches in each state that Bank of America has closed or plans to close down in 2023 and 2024, according to the Charlotte Business Journal:

Arizona:

3 confirmed (2023)

California:

32 confirmed; 4 planned (2023)

11 planned (2024)

Connecticut:

2 planned (2024)

District of Columbia:

1 planned (2023)

Florida:

4 confirmed; 2 planned (2023)

1 planned (2024)

Georgia

2 confirmed (2023)

Illinois:

3 confirmed (2023)

Massachusetts:

5 confirmed; 1 planned (2023)

1 planned (2024)

Maryland:

3 confirmed; 1 planned (2023)

2 planned (2024)

Michigan:

3 confirmed (2023)

1 planned (2024)

Missouri:

2 confirmed (2023)

North Carolina:

3 confirmed (2023)

New Hampshire:

1 confirmed (2023)

New Jersey:

4 confirmed; 1 planned (2023)

Nevada:

2 confirmed (2023)

1 planned (2024)

New York:

3 confirmed; 3 planned (2023)

1 planned (2024)

Oklahoma:

1 confirmed (2023)

1 planned (2024)

Oregon:

4 confirmed (2023)

Pennsylvania:

1 confirmed; 1 planned (2023)

South Carolina:

1 confirmed (2023)

Tennessee:

1 confirmed (2023)

Texas:

9 confirmed; 1 planned (2023)

Virginia:

3 confirmed (2023)

2 planned (2024)

Washington:

6 confirmed (2023)

2 planned (2024)

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A man has been charged in a fatal shooting of an 18-year-old in Camden in October.

Xavier Rivera, 23, of Camden, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and weapons offenses in the Oct. 18 killing of Jesus Manuel Ortiz-Hernandez, also of Camden, authorities said Tuesday.

Rivera was charged Oct. 27 and arrested Nov. 30 in Winter Haven, Florida with assistance from the U.S. Marshal service. He remains in custody in Florida pending extradition. Attorney information for him was not immediately available.

Police went to 2700 block area of Hayes Avenue on Oct. 18 at around 4:14 p.m. after a Shotspotter  a technology that identifies shootings  was activated. Police found Ortiz-Hernandez suffering from a gunshot wound at 22nd Street and River Road. He was taken to Cooper University Hospital and pronounced dead at 7:15 p.m.

The Camden County Prosecutors Office is asking for anyone with information on the shooting to contact Jeremy Jankowski of the prosecutors office homicide unit at 856-225-5950 or Detective Jake Siegfried at the Camden County Police Department at 609-820-3537.

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Matthew Enuco may be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow Matt on X
A 30-year-old was charged with attempted murder early Sunday after authorities say he stabbed another another man in a multi-apartment residence in Wildwood, authorities said.

Juan Vidal-Salinas was found at about 1:50 a.m. at a nearby home on East Andrews Avenue and arrested after refusing to follow the officers instructions, Wildwood police said. Vidal-Salinas was found with a folding knife covered in blood, police said.

The 25-year-old man he is accused of stabbing had wounds to his face, neck, head, and abdomen. He is in stable condition at an area hospital, according to police.

A motive for the attack wasnt disclosed.

Vidal-Salinas, of Wildwood is also charged with aggravated assault, obstruction and weapons offenses. He remains held at the Cape May County jail early Wednesday, according to online records.

Attorney information wasnt immediately available.

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Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com.
A Cumberland County judge granted an extended sentence in a robbery case against a 54-year-old Willingboro man based on his long criminal history in New Jersey and other states, the county prosecutors office announced in a release Wednesday.

Rodney Green was sentenced to 15 years in prison on Tuesday for a second-degree robbery conviction from Aug. 2022. Green was initially charged with five counts of robbery, making terroristic threats and resisting arrest, as well as other charges from 2020, investigators said.

On Sept. 29, 2020, Green entered a Rite Aid store on 907 North High Street in Millville and demanded money from a cashier. He threatened to kill the cashier and customers if the cashier did not hand over cash quickly, according to the press release from the Cumberland County Prosecutors Office.

Green made off with $240 in the robbery and was convicted by a jury on Aug. 26, 2022, authorities said.

The extended sentencing requested by prosecutors and granted by presiding judge Cristen DArrigo mentions Greens status as a persistent offender.

According to court records, Green has over 30 arrests in New Jersey including 12 disorderly persons convictions, three indictable convictions and four parole violations. He has also been arrested 11 times and convicted five times in Pennsylvania, three arrests and two convictions in Delaware, and been arrested and convicted once in Maryland.

The statement of reasons in the courts sentencing document explains that Green has had the full scope of deterrence in the legal system including diversion, probation and incarceration, none of which have kept Green from continued anti-social criminal behavior.

Green must serve 85% of the sentence under New Jersey No Early Release act, which will make him eligible for parole after 12  years. His attorney information was not immediately available.

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A 22-year-old Newark man faces 10 to 20 years in prison after he was convicted Tuesday of killing a Jersey City teen in 2021.

Jalen Culver was found guilty of manslaughter and weapons offenses in the March 21, 2021 fatal shooting of 17-year-old Zaimeir Bell after a four-day jury trial, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez said. Culver was found not guilty of aggravated manslaughter in the trial before Hudson County Superior Court Judge John Young.
After wrapping up her tour in November, Ilana Glazer decided to hit the road again in 2024.

The tour will begin on Jan. 18 in Kingston, N.Y. and will wrap up on May 2 in Toronto, ON.

While on tour, the comedian will perform in Englewood, N.J. on Jan. 19 and at the Beacon Theatre in New York City on April 10.

How to get Ilana Glazer tickets

Tickets for Ilana Glazers live tour go on sale on Dec. 8 through Ticketmaster.

You can also purchase tickets on secondary market websites, such as StubHub, Vivid Seats, TicketNetwork, TicketCity and MegaSeats.

First-time Vivid Seats users can save $20 on ticket orders over $200 by entering promo code NJ20 at checkout.

A complete list of Ilana Glazers tour dates is available here.

More comedy tours in 2024

Ilana Glazer is not the only comedian heading out on tour.

Here are a few more upcoming tours you wont want to miss.

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Nicole Iuzzolino can be reached at niuzzolino@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.
P!NK has extended her Summer Carnival Tour into 2024 and she is making a stop in New Jersey.

The New Jersey show will take place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford on Oct. 3.

The North American tour dates will begin on Aug. 10 in St. Louis, Miss. and will wrap up on Nov. 23 in Miami, Fla.

The tour will feature special guest Sheryl Crow, along with The Script and KidCutUp.

Fans can expect to see P!NK perform a high-energy set including her biggest hits like So What, TRUSTFALL, and Just Give Me A Reason.

How to get tickets to P!NKs 2024 tour

Tickets for P!NKs 2024 tour go on sale to the public on Dec. 11 at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster.

Fans can buy tickets on secondary market websites, such as StubHub, Vivid Seats, TicketNetwork, TicketCity and MegaSeats.

First-time Vivid Seats users can save $20 on ticket orders over $200 by entering promo code NJ20 at checkout.

A complete list of P!NKs tour dates are available here.

More upcoming tours heading to MetLife Stadium

P!NK is not the only artist heading to MetLife Stadium while on tour.

Here are a few more upcoming tours you wont want to miss.

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Nicole Iuzzolino can be reached at niuzzolino@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.
A New Jersey man driving a stolen car who caused a fatal crash at an intersection on Route 9 in Old Bridge while being pursued by police has been sentenced 12 years in state prison.

Samuel Villar, 21, of the Somerset section of Franklin Township, will have to serve more than 10 years before he is eligible for parole, the Middlesex County Prosecutors Office said Wednesday.

The crash on Nov. 9, 2022, killed an occupant of one of the other vehicles  Arturo Tlapa Luna, 33, of Freehold  and injured several members of his family, authorities said. Lunas father, wife and two daughters were also in the vehicle.

Villar and a 17-year-old traveled to Marlboro planning to burglarize vehicles, officials said.

Residents saw what the pair was trying to do and called the police, authorities said.

A Marlboro police officer responded and started to chase the car. The pursuit ended after the car, being driven west on Spring Valley Road, ran a red light at the intersection with Route 9 shortly after 2 a.m. That car was stolen in New Brunswick on Oct. 23.

Villar pleaded guilty in June to eluding, aggravated manslaughter and four counts of aggravated assault. He was sentenced Monday to a concurrent 12-year term.

After finishing his prison term, Villar will be on probation for five years and his license will be suspended for two years.

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Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com.
One person was killed and three others injured in a seven-vehicle crash on Route 9 in Freehold Township on Tuesday morning, authorities said.

The crash happened on the northbound side near the intersection with Route 33 around 10:30 a.m., the Monmouth County Prosecutors Office said.

The prosecutors office didnt immediately provide additional information on how the crash happened. A spokesman said none of the injuries are considered life-threatening. All three of the injured were in separate vehicles.

Witnesses told News 12 New Jersey that a driver failed to stop and slammed into vehicles waiting at a red light. All lanes were closed in both directions for several hours, according to the state Department of Transportation.

Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to call Monmouth County Prosecutors Office Detective Brian Boryszewski at 800-533-7443 or Freehold Township police officer Justin Nunno 732-462-7908.

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Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com.
Land that was once occupied by an amusement park in Ocean Countys Berkeley Township will be preserved as open space.

Ocean County, with the blessing of township officials, recently approved the $5.9 million purchase of 27 acres of land off Route 9 that was once home to Blackbeards Cave. The county plans to maintain the land as open space, according to a news release.

Donna Flynn, a county spokesperson, said the county is beginning work on the Barnegat Branch Trail in the area and no decision has been made on any active or passive recreation at the newly acquired site.

Demolition of the existing structures on the property is being handled by the current property owner at no cost to the county and is already underway, according to a news release.

This property, along with an anticipated donation of 50 acres from the township, expands our preserved open space in Berkeley Township substantially, Ocean County Commissioner Virginia E. Haines, liaison to the countys open space program, said in a news release. I am pleased we could work with the township in preserving this land for future generations.

The vote to purchase was not unanimous with four of five members of the Board of County Commissioners voting in favor and one abstention from Joseph H. Vicari.

I am not against this purchase, Vicari said at the Oct. 4 commissioners meeting. I have some concerns as to the price that we are paying. I have been contacted by some residents and business owners that also raised concerns.

Berkley Township officials praised the county for purchasing the property and protecting it from future development.

The township would not be able to handle the traffic flow if this property was to be developed, Berkley Township Mayor Carmen Amato told the commissioners during a recent meeting. This acquisition buffers the area while expanding on an existing preserve.

Berkley Township Council President John Bacchione, a member of the county Natural Lands Trust Fund committee, praised the sale.

Based on the location to other parcels of open space in the township, including its proximity to the countys Barnegat Branch Trail, we are not only preserving open space, but we ultimately will provide additional recreational opportunities for our residents, protect the environment and maintain our quality of life, Bacchione said.

The county generates some $10 million annually to purchase land for preservation through a 1.2-cent property tax.

This purchase, recommended by the county Natural Lands Trust Fund advisory committee, extends county-owned open space leading to the Northeast Mall Donation property and onto the Barnegat Branch Trail. The purchase also connects to another 800 acres of open space known as the New Jersey Pulverizing property.

Officials believe acquiring the property will create better access to the New Jersey Pulverizing site for Pine Beach and Berkley residents given the site has frontage along Route 9.

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Matthew Enuco may be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow Matt on X
What started as a service project for Lakeview High School's business leadership class has grown into something much bigger.

On Dec. 10, a group comprised of Heidi Heibel, Lexi Blaser, Brooklynn Jarecki and Hunter Liss will hold a Christmas festival at the school called A December to Remember. The event runs from noon to 5 p.m. with Santa visiting from 1 to 3 p.m. This is one of the class's four service projects for the year.

"We had to choose a project to benefit other people in the community and we were brainstorming and we thought that gifting presents to underprivileged children in the community would be a great cause," Liss said.

They will have over 30 vendors in attendance, with games and the visit from Santa to keep younger audiences entertained. The idea was originally just Christmas games, Liss said, but grew quickly to add the vendor and craft fair, which has seen a lot of interest online.

"It started out as Christmas games and a gym just for the kids, and then we decided to expand and we thought of the vendor fair. That's bringing in a lot more people, not only businesses that we can support, but also more people coming in (to support them)," Liss said.

Jarecki said they have seen quite a bit of interest online, most notably on Facebook.

"We have over 500 interested and over 60 people going and then we also hear about our parents' friends talk about it and they're all coming, their parents and grandkids, all those people," Jarecki said.

Tara Dlouhy, the group's Future Business Leaders of America advisor and the teacher for the business leadership class, said this stemmed from a curriculum called "Lead for Change" that grows students' leadership skills with these kind of projects.

Students had to find a cause and set things up to raise money for it by themselves, which she's been happy to watch unfold. This group is one of the most impressive she's seen in her time teaching this curriculum at Lakeview, Dlouhy said.

"I guide them and I provide them advice, but it is student-led. That's the purpose of doing these projects. This group has done a fantastic job of staying organized and thinking outside of the box. The sky's the limit with this group," Dlouhy said.

Heibel and Blaser said that, for them, the best part is being able to provide Christmas presents to those who normally may not receive them and to create something for people to do that day with their loved ones.

"We're raising all this money and people are coming in, bringing their kids, bringing their friends, they're gonna have a good day," Blaser said. Then we're also taking that money and making a Christmas for kids to always remember, because a lot of the kids that we're gonna be donating the presents to don't normally get Christmas presents."
You may not know it, but the chances are better than even that you are subject to a binding arbitration agreement that forbids you to file a lawsuit against your employer over mistreatment. Its in the pile of papers that new employees are asked to sign, and that few of us read carefully.

As it turns out, more than two-thirds of Americans are subject to these Orwellian agreements, which means their complaints can only be heard in company tribunals that reliably rule in favor of management. We are giving up our God-given right to sue the bad guys, and most of us dont even know it.
New Jersey candidates spent millions to court a relatively low number of voters in this years battle for control of the state Legislature.

Of the roughly 6.5 million registered voters in New Jersey, only about 1.8 million, or 27%, cast a ballot on Nov. 7 in a general election that saw all 120 seats in the state Legislature up for grabs.

That was 14 points lower than the 41% turnout in last years mid-term elections and 13 points lower than in 2021, when Gov. Phil Murphy won reelection over Republican challenger Jack Ciattarelli, according to figures from the state Division of Elections.
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A 60-year-old man is charged with first-degree murder in connection with the shooting of a woman Monday at an Omaha hotel.

Daniel S. Nickels of Omaha is also charged in a Douglas County arrest warrant with use of a firearm to commit a felony. He is accused of fatally shooting Esmeralda C. Vargas, 26, of Omaha, at the Comfort Inn & Suites near 70th and Grover Streets.

Nickels was arrested Monday near Holt, Missouri, about 31 miles northeast of Kansas City, Missouri. The Kansas City Police Department, Missouri Highway Patrol, the FBI and the ATF assisted in the arrest, an Omaha police spokesman said.

Authorities took Nickels into custody after a traffic stop, according to KMBC-TV of Kansas City, Missouri. Tactical teams and negotiators assisted in the investigation.

Nickels is in custody at the Clinton County Detention Center. According to the Sheriffs Office, hes awaiting an extradition hearing before being returned to Nebraska.

Omaha police officers were called to motel at 7007 Grover St. about 5:40 a.m. Vargas was found down inside the motel suffering from a gunshot wound and was taken to Creighton University Medical Center-Bergan Mercy, where she was pronounced dead.
Jamarques Harrison, 28, holds his diploma backdated to Aug. 3, 2013, after graduating with the class of Springfield Preparatory School at Victory in Christ of Louisiana church in Holden, La., Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023. Nearly 9,000 private schools in Louisiana dont need state approval to grant degrees. Non-approved schools make up a small percentage of the state total. But the students in Louisianas off-the-grid school system are a rapidly growing example of a nationwide hangover from COVID-19  families disengaging from traditional education.
Student Regan White, 10, uses a colorful abacus at Springfield Preparatory School in Springfield, La., Thursday, July 27, 2023. Nearly 9,000 private schools in Louisiana dont need state approval to grant degrees. Non-approved schools make up a small percentage of the state total. But the students in Louisianas off-the-grid school system are a rapidly growing example of a nationwide hangover from COVID-19  families disengaging from traditional education. (AP Photo/Scott Threlkeld)
Belarus Wants to Use Its CBDC to Evade Sanctions

Disclosure: Crypto is a high-risk asset class. This article is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute investment advice. By using this website, you agree to our terms and conditions. We may utilise affiliate links within our content, and receive commission.

Belarus wants to accelerate the launch of its CBDC as it looks to evade US and EU-led sanctions and let its firms trade with international partners.

Per Belarus Ekonomicheskaya Gazeta, President Alexander Lukashenko could issue a CBDC-related verdict in the coming days. The media outlet wrote:

A decision on the introduction of a new form of money is set to be made after a meeting that will be attended by the head of state.

Minsk, like Moscow, has been hit with several packages of economic sanctions following the outbreak of war in Ukraine.

Trade firms have been hit especially hard. Belarusian importers and exporters are effectively frozen out of the international baking network.

But, like Moscow, Minsk has been trying to find ways around sanctions that involve dollar-free transactions.

Belarus Preparing to Use Digital Ruble to Dodge Sanctions



Belarusian government officials have been exploring CBDC issuance for several years.

However, the nation stepped up its plans for a digital Belarusian ruble in August this year, announcing plans for real-world testing.

Tellingly, the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus (NBRB) began talking up the digital BYNs cross-border credentials from the outset.

Dmitry Kalechits, the NRBR Deputy Chairman, called the CBDC a most significant large-scale project.

Kalechits also spoke about the coins potential use at the cross-border level.

The media outlet called the CBDC a mechanism that may appear in Belarus to allow businesses to overcome sanctions.

The NRBR reiterated its claims from earlier this year, stating that a digital Belarusian ruble will be of greatest interest in the cross-border payments space.

The meeting could take place later this month after Lukashenko returns from a state visit to China.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko was welcomed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Monday. Lukashenko has become increasingly isolated following a crackdown on political opponents and his support for Russia in its war on Ukraine. https://t.co/D2svzCiImu pic.twitter.com/SoEJQr4nNR  Voice of America (@VOANews) December 5, 2023

Lukashenko met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, where the latter decried external interference in Belarus internal affairs.

Per the Global Times, Xi applauded Minsks attempt to look East, and promised to provide strategic support.

The developments come at a time when China is also testing its own CBDCs cross-border capabilities.

Minsks long-standing ally, Moscow, has also sped up its own CBDC pilots, with a nationwide launch slated for 2025.

 Digital Ruble Will Spark Russias Biggest Monetary Reforms Since the 1990s The launch of the Russian digital ruble will trigger the nations largest monetary reforms since the 1990s.#CryptoNews #Russiahttps://t.co/mVy4T1M45J  Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) December 4, 2023

Russian politicians have similarly stated that the digital (Russian) ruble will be used in the international trade space.

However, until CBDC-powered trade becomes a reality, Belarusian traders could be forced into much cruder measures.

The same media outlet explained that the central bank recently approved a law that allows exporters to make payments in cash until the end of 2024.
A young fundraiser from Northam who has been helping good causes for almost half his lifetime has been honoured with a visit to 10 Downing Street after being awarded a Prime Ministers Points of Light Award.

Jack Hopkins, aged nine, began raising money for NHS charities during the first Covid lockdown by taking walks around Northam and Appledore, accompanied by his mum Katie.

Since then he has raised at least 15,000 for good causes and has become an ambassador for the Tony Hudgell Foundation, set up by a fellow Point of Light and fundraising prodigy.

For the foundation, Jack has Jack has run 100 kilometres in 100 days during winter, walked a mini Ten Tors on Dartmoor and most recently walked a mountain with Tony in the Lake District (joined by Sir Chris Bonnington and Hari Budha Magar).

For Christmas, Jack and his mum have set up a Christmas appeal to get presents for those children who may be less fortunate, with Jack himself delivering some of the presents dressed as Santa.

During the lockdown of 2020, Jack Hopkins from Northam found himself becoming increasingly fed up, losing his motivation to complete his schoolwork.

He was also understandably worried by the pandemic and in awe of the NHS staff who were working tirelessly to try and keep the nation safe.

So he told his mum Katie he wanted to do something positive and decided to raise money to help the NHS, walking 5km twice a week around the area of their home in Northam and as part of the daily allowed exercise.

A variety of fundraising exploits followed and recently he was named in the Prime Ministers Points of Lights Awards, which recognises outstanding individuals and volunteers for their contributions to their community.

On Thursday he and Katie were invited to the Downing Street Festive Fair, which features invited food and drink businesses to celebrate the nations small businesses, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also in attendance.

Katie said: We had a really great evening at Downing Street  we met some great businesses and tried everything they had to offer, cheese, chocolate, pasta and more!

It was an honour to have been invited and to be able to stand outside No 10  we felt very festive at the end of it. Jack was invited due to having been awarded his Points of Light on October 20.

Rishi Sunak came out and made a speech thanking the stalls and guests who attended before turning on the Christmas tree lights.

Jack added: It was really fun and I liked all the lights and the stalls, especially the free samples!

I was so honoured to receive the award and couldnt quite believe it. I really looked forward to showing my friends at school.

After meeting Tony Hudgell in 2021, Jack became an ambassador for the Tony Hudgell Foundation and has since supported Tony in his fundraising, which included raising more than 59,000 from a mountain climbing challenge in August.

Documenting his progress on social media, Jack has also inspired many friends and family members to join him on his challenges.

His Christmas present appeal for local children is going very well but more donations are always welcome. If you would like to help, please go to www.justgiving.com/campaign/thf-christmaspresentappeal-2023.

If anyone knows of a child who would benefit from a present, please email katie@tonyhudgellfoundation.org.
On Monday (December 4) people from North Devon joined hundreds of others around the country in holding signs outside Exeter Crown Court, as part of a growing public campaign called Defend Our Juries.

Their signs displayed the centuries-old principle of jury equity, ie the right of all jurors in British courtrooms to acquit a defendant according to their conscience and irrespective of the directions of the judge.

The group from North Devon and Torridge includes retired teachers, social workers engineers, ecologists, museum curators and those still working in nursing and teaching.

Steve Jarvis, a retired primary school teacher and plumber from North Devon said: Six of us from Northern Devon sat outside Exeter Crown Court along with two dozen others in solidarity with those already arrested and even jailed for holding up a sign with the words engraved in stone at the Old Bailey about jury rights.

We sat in the rain for an hour with our placards with the same words as those arrested. It felt good to be part of a movement challenging those judges who are corrupting jury trials with unreasonable restrictions and directing juries rather than allowing them to make up their own minds.

But by displaying these signs, the group runs the risk of arrest. In September, the Solicitor General announced he would prosecute the 68-year-old retired social worker, Trudi Warner, for contempt of court, for holding a similar sign outside Inner London Crown Court in March. Then in October, two young women were arrested by the MET police for doing the same thing.

Just days after the Solicitor Generals announcement to prosecute Warner, 252 people gathered outside 25 crown courts across England and Wales, holding similar signs in solidarity with Trudi Warner. None were arrested and there has been no indication of a police investigation since then.

Jill Apperly, a retired lecturer from North Devon added: This is such an important action with far reaching consequences for all of us. We have to believe that our system of justice is exactly that, just and fair for everyone. But now people are at risk of arrest simply for holding a placard.

We must fight for the right of jurors to vote according to their conscience; yet the government are trying to stop our juries from hearing the full truth. This is an outrage against justice. It's time to make our voices heard.

The demonstrations come amid mounting public concern that political trials, such as the trial over the toppling of the statue of the slave-trader Edward Colston into Bristol harbour, are being turned into show trials, after a succession of jury acquittals, including the acquittal of the Colston 4 in January 2022, have embarrassed the Government and certain corporate interests.

In the Colston case, Suella Braverman, who was Attorney General at the time, decided that the jury of Bristol people had got it wrong, and brought a successful appeal to the Court of Appeal, changing the law.

They say measures being taken by courts in response include defendants being banned from explaining to the jury why they did what they did, even people who have taken peaceful direct action are now being sent to prison for up to three years.
South Korean Customs Service Swoops on Intl USDT-Gambling Ring

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South Korean law enforcers are continuing to crack down on crypto-powered crime, with customs officials shutting down a suspected international gambling ring that used USDT.

According to the broadcaster KBS, officers arrested seven people in raids, with one remanded in custody.

The Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office will now handle the groups cases.

The seven people were charged with violating the Foreign Exchange Transactions Act.

But two suspected gambling ring members have reportedly fled abroad in a bid to avoid arrest.

Officers said the individual they retained in custody was the groups unofficial leader. The search continues for the rest of the alleged gang.

The customs service held a press conference where they showed images of some of the items they seized in the raids, including KRW and USD banknotes.

How Did South Korean-Filipino USDT-Gambling Ring Operate?



Officers claimed that the ring used social media channels to find customers for illegal gambling sites.

The ring allegedly converted the money it received to USDT, amassing over $12 million worth of the USD-pegged stablecoin.

Customs officials said the group paid gamblers their winnings in USDT tokens.

They said the group used an illegal gambling establishment in the Philippines to convert fiat to USDT.

The group allegedly worked out of two secret offices in Seoul, South Korea, and Bonifacio Global City, near the Philippine capital.

Officers further claimed that the groups leader set up multiple shell companies for arbitrage crypto trading.

Customs officials said the ring also created fake documents to pretend to pay for imports. Seoul-based customs officers confiscated materials related to illegal remittances and cash worth almost $182,000.

Crypto and Gambling Crackdowns Continue



South Korean gambling laws are famously strict. Only one brick-and-mortar casino in the country has a license to admit domestic customers.

Authorities have been cracking down on online gambling sites and illegal casinos for over a decade.

Earlier this week, South Koreas five biggest crypto exchanges said they would join financial regulators to hunt undeclared crypto operators.

Last month, police in South Jeolla Province arrested a group of people they suspect of duping 170 crypto investors by posing as crypto-issuing robot developers.
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The Region is blessed with many ethnic festivals that provide delicious tastes of the old world.

Northwest Indiana steel mills drew immigrants from the world over. At one point East Chicago was home to 100 different nationalities.

Many ethnic groups carry on their traditions today with festivals like Serb Fest, Pierogi Fest and Empanada Fest. There are more than a few Greek fests where they barbecue lamb the way some restaurants and bars used to on the weekends.

Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral at 8000 Madison St. in Merrillville has a Greek Fest in the summer and recently had a smaller one in November. It serves up many traditional favorites like souvlaki, pastitsio, spanakopita, tiropita, Grecian chicken, Greek salads and lemon rice soup.

The leg of lamb is a delectable classic with a rich fatty flavor. It's accompanied with traditional sides like rice and Grecian green beans for a satisfying meal.

The church also has traditional home-baked Greek desserts to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral will host the Our Ladies Philoptochos Society's annual Christmas Pastry Fest from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday and from 10:30 a.m. to noon Sunday. It's open to the public.

St. Iakovos Greek Orthodox Church at 36 W 700 N in Valparaiso also will host its holiday bake sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16.
The upscale Cooper's Hawk Winery and Restaurant is flying into Schererville, where it will land in Shops on Main.

The Downers Grove-based chain, which opened in the Southlake Mall in 2012, plans to open its second Northwest Indiana location on Main Street by the Dick's Sporting Goods in Shops on Main, just across from the Highland Grove shopping center. It will be the final addition to the tony Shops on Main shopping center that's also home to Whole Foods, Nordstrom Rack and Carrabba's Italian Grill.

Cooper's Hawk consists of an upscale contemporary American casual dining restaurant, a full-service bar, a private dining room and a Napa-style wine-tasting room with a wine-tasting bar. It also has a retail store selling wine and wine accessories.

"This development has been a long time in the works," said Nick Koglin, vice president of investments and market officer for Regency Centers, which manages and leases Shops on Main at Indianapolis Boulevard and Main Street in Schererville, just south of the Highland border. "This is the last tract, so we want it to be successful in the long run. Cooper's Hawk is an evening attraction and a premium operator that will uplift the merchandising and be a destination. It has a regional pull. It originally developed just over the border in Illinois."

The first Cooper's Hawk opened in Orland Park in 2005. The chain has spread to more than 50 locations in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Missouri, Iowa, Ohio, Virginia, Maryland, Florida and Arizona. It's now in the midst of opening three more locations in Illinois, Wisconsin and Florida.

Cooper's Hawk plans to build a 9,987-square-foot restaurant with 116 parking spaces on the south side of Main Street in Schererville. It will be accessible via the northern entrance to Shops on Main at the red light intersection that also leads to the Target at the neighboring Highland Grove across the street.

Cooper's Hawk Senior Design Manager Lauren Williams said festooned lights, planting boxes and other design flourishes would add ambiance.

"It looks beautiful," Schererville Plan Commission President Thomas Anderson said during a study session. "It's the last piece of the puzzle for Shops on Main."

Cooper's Hawk aims to start construction next year and open the winery and restaurant by fall of 2025.

The winery offers a wide array of red, white, sparkling, rose, sangria, sweet, fruit, dessert and international wines. Its wines have been showered with awards, such as the 2018 Indy International Wine Competition Double Gold, the 2018 Winemaker Challenge International Wine Competition Silver and 2018 Critics Challenge Wine Competition Silver for its Lux Cabernet Sauvignon.

It also has a full selection of martinis, cocktails and mocktails. The food menu includes steaks, chops, seafood, pasta, risotto, chicken, burgers, chopped salads, vegetarian entrees and desserts. The menu includes shrimp and scallop risotto, gnocchi carbonara, red wine braised short ribs, pretzel-crusted pork chops, blackened ahi tuna, pistachio-crusted grouper, soy ginger Atlantic salmon with Wasabi-buttered mashed potatoes and Parmesan-crusted mahi mahi with roasted broccolini, potatoes, capers and lemon butter.

In addition to the winery and restaurant, Cooper's Hawk operates a wine club that includes one to three bottles a month, discounts and access to trips, dinners and events.
PORTAGE  A failed battery in an electric car resulted in a 44-year-old man going to jail on allegations of driving while three times the legal limit for drinking alcohol, Portage police said.

An officer said he was driving southbound on Willowcreek Road around 3:49 p.m. Monday when spotted a black Tesla stopped at a green light at Mulberry Avenue holding up traffic.

The driver, later identified as Dameon Cole, of Michigan, reportedly told police he had rented the electric vehicle and its battery died.

The officer said he smelled alcohol on Cole and spotted an empty alcohol bottle in the vehicle.

Region teacher shot; woman charged, police say "The victim then stated she attempted to disarm the suspect when the suspect fired one shot at her striking her in the stomach."

While Cole insisted he was not intoxicated, police said a test revealed he had a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.244%, or three times the legal limit of 0.08%.

Cole was taken to the Porter County Jail and faces a several operating while intoxicated charges, including one of endangering others, police said.
CROWN POINT  Four days after issuing an order to unseal documents in Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr.'s criminal case, a judge has ruled that portions of the documents be redacted.

Special Judge Jeryl Leach issued three orders Monday in response to Martinez's Thursday motion to exclude information from public copies of the documents that Martinez's attorneys said is allegedly subject to marital privilege. The documents, initially sealed upon their filing in July, will still be available to the public, but without the privileged information.

The first portion that is to be redacted are nearly verbatim excerpts from a May 2022 deposition of Martinez's wife, Melissa. The second portion is a copy of the full transcript of her deposition that is attached to one of the documents as an evidentiary exhibit.

A hearing was held Nov. 20 on whether or not Melissa Martinez should be required to answer certain questions. Leach has not yet issued an order on whether or not the questions are indeed subject to marital privilege.

Recent discussions regarding prohibiting public access to information in Martinez's case began in May when Special Prosecutors Stanley Levco and David O. Thomas filed a motion to compel Martinez's wife to answer eight deposition questions she initially did not answer.

The questions related to whether or not Martinez was drinking alcohol on the night of Sept. 18, 2021, when he fled from Crown Point police and drove more than 40 miles over the speed limit. He was indicted Jan. 6, 2022, on charges of felony resisting law enforcement and misdemeanor reckless driving.

Martinez argued the questions are related to privileged communications between spouses, according to court documents, and not relevant to the case.

Martinez and prosecutors were instructed to file new copies of the previously sealed documents within seven days of Leach's most recent order. They must remove any information from the documents that is related to the potentially privileged deposition questions.

Martinez is set to stand trial in February.

Close Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Alentee Campbell visits with her 4-year-old twins Makayla and Jayden Isabell. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Pete Basala created Peteyville, a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Pete Basala created Peteyville, a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Pete Basala created Peteyville, a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Randi Moritz has been coming here since she was a child and now brings her sons Ezequiel Vera, 6, and Liam Vera, 1 month. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville founder not feeling Christmas spirit this year: 'I do this for basically everybody else' Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Alentee Campbell visits with her 4-year-old twins Makayla and Jayden Isabell. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Pete Basala created Peteyville, a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Pete Basala created Peteyville, a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Pete Basala created Peteyville, a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Randi Moritz has been coming here since she was a child and now brings her sons Ezequiel Vera, 6, and Liam Vera, 1 month. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from. Peteyville has been a longtime Region Christmas institution in the Hessville neighborhood Jean Shepherd hailed from.
Hammond middle school and high school students engaged with artificial intelligence and activities involving science, technology engineering and math at an event held at Purdue Northwest on Tuesday.

Around 150 students from Hammond Central and Morton high schools, the Hammond Academy of Science and Technology, Bishop Noll High School, and Eggers and Scott middle schools took part in the first AI and STEM Hammond Youth Conference inside the university's Student Union Library.

Students got the opportunity to learn and engage with AI and learn more about STEM-related careers.

Several tables with students and faculty from PNW's College of Technology lined the first floor with demonstrations and hands-on activities for the children relating to different academic majors including engineering, robotics, computer science and biology.

Upstairs, there was a roundtable activity on AI in which students performed different tasks using tools such as Chat GPT and Google's online game "Quick, Draw".

Following a lunch break, the conference wrapped up with a panel discussion with several individuals including PNW faculty and students and working professionals from Northwest Indiana. The panelists discussed careers relating to AI and STEM, with the children getting the opportunity to ask the panelists questions.

Christina Maldonado, the parent, community, and early education liaison for PNW, said the youth conference was meant to expose the students to the different career pathways relating to AI and STEM and inspire them to take dual credit classes and other courses necessary to prepare them for careers in these fields.

According to Maldonado, the students attending the conference were selected by their teachers, guidance counselors and principals, in part, because of their expressed interest in AI and STEM, or because of classes they are currently taking.

The event was a collaboration between PNW, the Hammond Teachers Federation and the Hammond Education Foundation.

ChatGPT is landing kids in the principal's office, but not because of cheating ChatGPT is landing kids in the principal's office, but not because of cheating One challenge has been a dearth of training and guidance on how to deal with AI Digital surveillance technology can pose disparate impacts on students; parent support for it is also waning More than 1 in 3 teachers know of a student whose online activity has drawn the attention of law enforcement; meanwhile, digital filtering presents a negative academic impact
GARY  On Tuesday morning Jerry Williams received the key to his hometown.

The Indiana State Police major was honored at Gary City Hall  just a few blocks from where he grew up  surrounded by fellow law enforcement professionals. Williams helped guide the Gary Police Department through a historic partnership with Indiana State Police, even serving as the Gary interim chief of police for six months.

Mayor Jerome Prince said Williams' "deep-rooted connection to the city" made the recognition even more meaningful.

The last Gary key to the city was given to Lake County Councilman Clorius Lay. The Tuesday celebration also allowed the city and ISP to reflect on their collaboration.

In April 2022, Prince, Williams, ISP Superintendent Douglas Carter and others gathered in the same room in City Hall to announce an unprecedented partnership between ISP and Gary Police. The goal was to take a holistic look at the Gary Police Department.

The partnership came at a time the department was struggling with stability. Brian Evans, who had been deputy chief, was serving as interim chief. Evans took over when Chief Richard Ligon resigned after six months on the job. Ligon was Gary's 11th police chief since 2006.

In winter 2021, Prince called Williams and proposed a potential partnership. After getting buy-in from Carter and Gov. Eric Holcomb, Williams got to work embedding himself in the Gary Police department.

The partnership was originally slated to last no more than 10 months, but after more than 200 days, Williams took over as the city's new interim police chief. Williams took a leave from ISP and served as chief for over six months. At the end of June, Anthony Titus was named the city's new permanent chief.

One of the most visible outcomes of the partnership was 17 ordinances drafted to improve how the Gary Police Department operates. The ordinances update the hiring, firing, promotion and disciplinary processes, as well as the duties of the police chief. First introduced to the Gary Common Council at the end of August, the legislation was hotly debated during several meetings. The ordinances ultimately passed, although many were edited and two were combined.

Through the partnership, the department was able to purchase license plate readers and laptops using grants, implement body cameras and increase patrol capacity. In addition, Williams worked with the Lake County Prosecutor's Office to establish the Lake County Prosecutor's Homicide Task Force, which includes investigators from Gary Police, ISP, Indiana Excise Police and the East Chicago Police Department.

The goal of the task force is to build a solid relationship between police and prosecutors so evidence can be developed properly and cases prosecuted thoroughly. To date, the task force has helped charge 18 murder cases, closed nine other homicide cases, closed about 30 death investigations and executed about 170 homicide warrants.

Police chiefs from across the Region attended the Tuesday morning event. Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez was also in attendance, as was former Sheriff Roy Dominguez. Titus said the crowded room perfectly demonstrated what the ultimate goal of the ISP partnership was.

The goal was "that law enforcement would move outside of silos and begin to depend on our common goals and our professionalism, depend on our skillset and come together to do what's right for our communities," Titus said.

When Titus first learned Williams would be taking over as interim chief, he had his doubts.

"I said Jerry has an unblemished career, he has achieved a rank that very few have achieved as state troopers and now he's going to risk all of that to become the chief for the city of Gary. If Jerry is unsuccessful, that will be what is remembered, that he went to Gary and he failed," Titus said. "This room ... shows that Jerry Williams was absolutely successful."

Williams said he was "honored" to work alongside Gary police officers and called the partnership between the two agencies "bold." When he was growing up in Gary's Emerson neighborhood, he said the city's economy was stronger, the steel mills were thriving and the infrastructure was more robust.

"I'm naive enough to think this room demonstrates that we can once again be the focal point of Indiana," Williams said. "That Gary can be the place that businesses and families seek out."

PHOTOS: Gary names new police chief Indiana State Police press conference regarding their partnership with Gary PD Indiana State Police press conference regarding their partnership with Gary PD Indiana State Police press conference regarding their partnership with Gary PD Indiana State Police press conference regarding their partnership with Gary PD Indiana State Police press conference regarding their partnership with Gary PD Indiana State Police press conference regarding their partnership with Gary PD Indiana State Police press conference regarding their partnership with Gary PD Indiana State Police press conference regarding their partnership with Gary PD Indiana State Police press conference regarding their partnership with Gary PD Indiana State Police press conference regarding their partnership with Gary PD
Housing Opportunities is now a division of NWICA and Stanfill is the organization's chief housing officer. According to NWICA's 2022-2023 impact report, the merger allowed the nonprofit to provide more housing support and to construct more affordable housing units.

"This merger has empowered us to leverage shared resources, expertise and partnerships to provide even more comprehensive services and support to needy individuals and families," the annual report stated. "The merger couldnt have been timelier. This year, the Indiana Balance of State counted 4,398 people experiencing homelessness - 710 more people than the previous year."

This year, NWICA assisted 50,000 individuals through its various programs. According to the report, NWICA helped over 32,573 individuals in accessing vital nutrition resources through its WIC and Senior Nutrition programs.

The nonprofit also provided shelter to 106 individuals, supported 104 individuals through the Resource Center and worked with 156 individuals through Street Outreach services. NWICA also constructed 17 new affordable housing rentals and is currently constructing 36 affordable housing units, providing housing to a total of 1,083 individuals.
The first woman to serve as chief justice of Indiana is hailing the late Sandra Day O'Connor, the first female justice on the U.S. Supreme Court, as a continuing inspiration for women and girls across America.

Chief Justice Loretta Rush, who lived in Munster as a child, said following O'Connor's death Friday at age 93 that the example set by the former Supreme Court justice is a big part of why Rush currently is the Hoosier State's top judicial officer.

"She is the inspiration for so many of us who entered the male-dominated legal profession without a female role model  including me," Rush said.

"When I entered law school, there had never been a woman appointed to the United States Supreme Court, and there were very few women judges. Her groundbreaking appointment provided a shining beacon of hope  for me and so many others  that a path existed for women to rise to the top of the legal profession."

O'Connor was an Arizona appellate judge and a former Arizona state lawmaker when she was appointed to the nation's highest court in 1981 by Republican President Ronald Reagan. She was confirmed 99-0 by the U.S. Senate.

For nearly 15 years, O'Connor was at the center of American jurisprudence  literally  often providing the decisive Supreme Court vote on cases involving abortion, affirmative action, campaign finance, firearms and school choice, as well as the outcome of the disputed 2000 presidential election.

The winner of that case, Republican George W. Bush, appointed Justice Samuel Alito to succeed O'Connor when she retired in 2006 to care for her ailing husband, who died three years later.

Rush, who was appointed to the Indiana Supreme Court in 2012 by Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels, and elevated to chief justice two years later, said she considers O'Connor "a true luminary whose remarkable legacy will continue to guide and inspire us all for generations to come."

"Her pioneering spirit, unwavering dedication to justice and trailblazing achievements have forever transformed the landscape of the legal profession," Rush said.

Gallery: Get to know these new Indiana laws that took effect July 1 AirTags Alcohol permits Animal facilities Army veteran in Aberdeen repeatedly victimized by teens, calling him a 'terrorist' Book bans Bullying Charter schools Child molesting Childrens hospitals Domestic violence Drinking water Electric/hybrid vehicles Encroachment FAFSA Financial literacy Firefighting equipment Food and beverage tax Gender-affirming care Gary schools Gasoline tax Human trafficking Illiana Expressway Inmate gender Insurance fund Juror pay Juveniles Lake County convention center Lake County recorder Landlords Little Calumet River Lost farmland Machine guns Mail-in ballots Mental health Military bases Military pay Pension investments Public health School board elections Service animals Sex education SNAP assistance Speed cameras State comptroller Storage units Tax sales Taxpayer receipt Teachers unions Throwing stars Transit Development District 21st Century Scholars Valparaiso lawsuit Xylazine
The attorney general's office is urging a federal judge to dismiss a second lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a new Indiana law requiring bystanders at the scene of a police investigation to stay back at least 25 feet  if requested by a police officer.

A federal court in northern Indiana is set to rule soon on the validity of House Enrolled Act 1186 (2023) in connection with a legal challenge initiated in August on behalf of South Bend "citizen-journalist" Donald Nicodemus after he was repeatedly ordered away from the scene of a July 20 shooting in South Bend.

Attorney General Todd Rokita said with that decision imminent, there's no need for a federal judge in southern Indiana to weigh nearly identical questions in a similar lawsuit filed in October by a coalition of Indianapolis-area media organizations.

"Under the first-to-file rule, media organizations' complaint should be dismissed to avoid duplicative litigation of a parallel case, thus conserving judicial resources and avoiding potentially conflicting federal court decisions," Rokita said.

The Republican attorney general also said dismissal of the second suit is warranted because none of the media organizations have been directly subject to enforcement of the 25-foot rule.

"Media organizations' subjective fear of unconstitutional enforcement is purely speculative and, considering that the buffer law's enforcement history shows nothing but extraordinary deference to First Amendment rights, is not reasonable or credible," Rokita said.

A ruling on Rokita's motion to dismiss is expected early next year.

Statehouse supporters of the new law said it improves officer and public safety by preventing distractions that potentially could give criminal suspects an opportunity to pull out a gun or attempt to flee from police, such as when a crowd of people approaches officers and demands to immediately know the legal basis for an arrest or traffic stop.

Opponents, meanwhile, said the law wrongly aims to shield officers from appropriate public scrutiny and recording of their actions in the wake of the 2020 police murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

Gallery: Get to know these new Indiana laws that took effect July 1 AirTags Alcohol permits Animal facilities Army veteran in Aberdeen repeatedly victimized by teens, calling him a 'terrorist' Book bans Bullying Charter schools Child molesting Childrens hospitals Domestic violence Drinking water Electric/hybrid vehicles Encroachment FAFSA Financial literacy Firefighting equipment Food and beverage tax Gender-affirming care Gary schools Gasoline tax Human trafficking Illiana Expressway Inmate gender Insurance fund Juror pay Juveniles Lake County convention center Lake County recorder Landlords Little Calumet River Lost farmland Machine guns Mail-in ballots Mental health Military bases Military pay Pension investments Public health School board elections Service animals Sex education SNAP assistance Speed cameras State comptroller Storage units Tax sales Taxpayer receipt Teachers unions Throwing stars Transit Development District 21st Century Scholars Valparaiso lawsuit Xylazine
HEBRON  State Rep. Mike Aylesworth, R-Hebron, will ask voters next year to extend his tenure at the Statehouse into a second decade.

The five-term lawmaker, first elected in 2014, announced Tuesday he's running for the Republican nomination in House District 11, and a chance to continue representing southern Lake and Porter counties, and portions of Newton and Jasper counties, in the House.

Aylesworth said his priorities at the General Assembly include improving transportation infrastructure, advancing employment and economic development in rural areas, and ensuring proper funding for education.

"I will continue my long-standing tradition of open, honest government. I enjoy helping individuals resolve various issues within all levels of government," Aylesworth said.

"I will also continue my outreach efforts with the many townships, town councils, county councils and boards of commissioners. My effort can help their respective entities run more smoothly and efficiently."

Aylesworth's experience in local government is more extensive than nearly all his Statehouse colleagues. He's been both a Porter County commissioner and member of the county council, served on the county's plan commission, drainage board, and in township government, and Aylesworth was a member of the Kankakee River Basin Commission for nine years, including two as chairman.

In the House, Aylesworth is chairman of the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, and a member of the Environmental Affairs and the Courts and Criminal Code committees.

Records show Aylesworth topped two Republican opponents with 58% of the vote in the 2022 primary election and he prevailed without opposition in the general election.

Gallery: Get to know these new Indiana laws that took effect July 1 AirTags Alcohol permits Animal facilities Army veteran in Aberdeen repeatedly victimized by teens, calling him a 'terrorist' Book bans Bullying Charter schools Child molesting Childrens hospitals Domestic violence Drinking water Electric/hybrid vehicles Encroachment FAFSA Financial literacy Firefighting equipment Food and beverage tax Gender-affirming care Gary schools Gasoline tax Human trafficking Illiana Expressway Inmate gender Insurance fund Juror pay Juveniles Lake County convention center Lake County recorder Landlords Little Calumet River Lost farmland Machine guns Mail-in ballots Mental health Military bases Military pay Pension investments Public health School board elections Service animals Sex education SNAP assistance Speed cameras State comptroller Storage units Tax sales Taxpayer receipt Teachers unions Throwing stars Transit Development District 21st Century Scholars Valparaiso lawsuit Xylazine
For someone whose most enduring contribution to popular culture might be the image of a husband and wife sitting at a piano and singing about the good old days, Norman Lear is not particularly nostalgic.

He has spent the last 20 of his 92 years pondering a vow to tell his life story: not just the backstage tales from his popular sitcoms like All in the Family, Maude, Good Times and The Jeffersons, but also his account of how a Depression-era kid with a challenging childhood came to produce the button-pushing, boundary-breaking comedies that defined the 1970s and influenced future generations.

It is a story that Mr. Lear shares, reluctantly but abundantly, in a memoir, Even This I Get to Experience, which Penguin Press will release on Oct. 14.

Now that he has reflected on the totality of his life  including incarnations as a member of a B-17 bomber crew in World War II, a novice press agent and a sketch writer for stars like Danny Thomas and Jerry Lewis  he says he better understands why he was in no hurry to complete the task.
NORMAN LEAR NYT OP DOC Directors: Heidi Ewing & Rachel Grady June 10, 2016 TIMECODE IN: TRANSCRIPT: 00;00;00;00 TEXT: Norman Lear is the creator of the most successful sitcoms of all time, including All In the Family. At 93 he is still actively producing television shows. 00;00;38;04 NORMAN LEAR: Often Ill get undressed. Look at myself nude, dissatisfied but amused. And Ill sing and dance, alone, in front of a full length mirror. And I have wondered for a great many years, how do we know that thats not the secret to longevity? 00;01;02;17 CASTING DIRECTOR: Look at the casting they got for this show. Shes the real deal. NORMAN LEAR: I know that face... 00;01;12;03 [Norman greets incoming actors] Nice to meet you! Come on in! Hey Baby! What the hell have you been doing all these years? Paul Sorvino: Do you know how long its been? 30 years. The pilot for Sanford and Son. Norman: I like your face I dont give a shit what anyone says. 00;01;39;17 Allen: Guess who died. Or as my mother used to say, youll never guess who died. NORMAN LEAR; I wrote a script called Guess Who Died. A show about the elderly that nobody wants. 00;01;53;03 [Actors reading parts] 00;02;32;07 NORMAN LEAR: Im so delighted to hear it read. Because Ive never heard it read. Its never come to the place where actors have read it for me, and I like it. I really like it. 00;02;48;10 NORMAN LEAR (speaking to actor #1) : So I wrote this five years ago... and the right people read it, I know, the right people thought it funny, I know. But the right people said its not our demographic. ACTOR #1: Well theyre overlooking a lot of people, theres no question. ACTOR 2 (Marcia): I havent done any TV in- I dont even keep days, but Im not even up for anything. All youre right for are little grannies. But thats not how I go through the world you know? 00;03;21;16 NORMAN LEAR: Enjoying aging. Whats not to enjoy? ACTOR 4: Its a gift many dont get, old age. 00;03;37;14 NORMAN LEAR: Youth worship. Why does the media seek out 18-39? They believe older people dont matter. 00;03;46;21 NORMAN LEAR: I wrote it because we are so under represented. 00;03;51;04 [Norman opening cookie package] NORMAN LEAR: This is called watching an old man struggle to eat a cookie. 00;04;14;10 NORMAN LEAR: I will be 94 on the twenty seventh of July. Somebody said to me, ya know, God, You want to live to 102? But you have to die the next day. Would you sign this paper? I wouldnt sign it for 118. Because I dont want to know- well maybe 118, I have to rethink that. [laughs] I seriously thought about 118. 00;04;55 ;12 [Actor, Allen, arrives to read] 00;04;50;17 NORMAN LEAR: So his wife has died moments before, and shes sitting the way she was when she died... ALLEN: So Blanche. From that, to this. That first sight of you in that fluttery spring dress. I dont know what they were praying for at that moment across the street but I was praying for another gust of wind to lift that chiffon to see more of what had to be the most exquisite legs in the history of exquisite legs. Blanche, I love you 66 million 130 thousand 405 Barbie dolls dressed for a wedding to the man of their dreams all of them singer-songwriters. And I love you Blanche. Enough to trust you with my every secret. The deepest of which is how much I love you. NORMAN LEAR: God you made me cry... I love the way you did that. 00;06;12;00 ALLEN: Well I think if youve lost someone... and I have at home... theres a beautiful ceramic urn with my wifes ashes. And I like that the fact that its there. From that to this. You know? I mean it was all so real. 00;06;46;15 NORMAN LEAR: Arent you expected to grow? Learn more about yourself, learn more about the world? You are when youre young. Why would you be less expected to grow when youre 80? The culture dictates how you behave. And maybe the elderly buy into it the way they grow old. My role here now is to say. Wait a minute, thats not all there is! Theres a good time to be had at this age. 00;07;24;18 CREDITS: (With theme from Good Times.) Directors: Heidi Ewing Rachel Grady Cinematography: Tony Hardmon Jenna Rosher Editing: Amira Dughri Andrew Saunderson Original Music: Kris Bowers Casting Director: Eve Brandstein Casting Assistant: Matt Lessall Sound: Thomas Orozco Assistant Camera: Jonathan Gutierrez Additional Camera: Wolfgang Held Actors: Barbara Bain Alan Mandell Jenny OHara Alan Miller Marcia Rodd Paul Sorvino Annie Abbott Eve Sigall Production Assistant: Spencer Berg
Trying to recover from a catastrophe that nearly ended her career, April Bloomfield is cooking the best food shes ever made at her new restaurant in Brooklyn, Sailor.

She has always been able to express herself in the kitchen more easily than in interviews. When asked by a New York Times reporter in 2018 how she had allowed her former business partner, Ken Friedman, to get away with behavior that several former employees said included groping them and pressuring them for sex, she seemed at a loss for words.

In the end, every restaurant she and Mr. Friedman owned was sold or closed. Theres no way to wrap up that chapter of Ms. Bloomfields career with a neat moral conclusion, or even a messy one. Like many chefs, she was a good cook and a bad manager, very much in her element in the kitchen and less so when faced with the other responsibilities of owning restaurants.
A Queens man was charged on Tuesday with several hate crime counts in an October attack on an Israeli tourist in Times Square who was punched in the head by an assailant invoking Hamas, the Manhattan district attorney said.

The hate crime charges against the man, Yehia Amin, were among the latest to arise from a spate of bias incidents in New York City in the past two months amid the war between Hamas and Israel.

In the case of Mr. Amin, 28, prosecutors said he had followed the tourist and four friends, all five wearing skullcaps, as they visited Times Square.

Mr. Amin, prosecutors said, played what he told the men was Hamas music through a Bluetooth speaker while following them for several blocks and making antisemitic comments that included Hamas should kill more of you and All Jews should die.

After tailing the men for 10 minutes, prosecutors said, Mr. Amin sprinted up behind one of them, a 23-year-old, and punched him in the back of the head before running off. The police caught him a short time after he fled, and he continued to shout antisemitic remarks while being arrested, prosecutors said.

Mr. Amin was charged with three counts of stalking as a hate crime, one count of assault as a hate crime and one count of aggravated harassment.

Violence stemming from hate and discrimination will not be tolerated in Manhattan, Alvin L. Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney, said in a statement announcing the indictment.

The number of bias incidents investigated this year by the Police Departments Hate Crime Task Force was down 6 percent through November, compared with the same period last year, but the number of such incidents this November was up 33 percent compared with last November, department data shows.

In October, in the wake of Hamass surprise Oct. 7 attack on Israel, the number of bias incidents investigated by the police jumped 124 percent compared with October 2022, and the number of antisemitic incidents surged 214 percent, Police Department data shows.

Other recent incidents that have led to hate crime charges include one on Nov. 7 in which a woman threw her cellphone and a cup of hot coffee at a man in a Brooklyn park while making anti-Islamic statements. The victim was not hurt, officials said.

Hadasa Bozakkaravani, 48, was subsequently arrested in the attack and charged with several crimes, including assault as a hate crime, harassment and menacing.

Last Friday, two 14-year-olds and a 13-year-old were charged with three counts of assault as a hate crime and two counts of assault after a series of November incidents in which, officials said, they attacked people near a Brooklyn synagogue, punching and kicking the victims and causing minor injuries.
Darryl George, the Texas high school student who earlier this year was removed from school because his hairstyle violated a dress code, was suspended again on Tuesday, the latest flashpoint in a monthslong dispute over a school policy that has spilled into the courts.

Mr. George, 18, had just returned to class at Barbers Hill High School in Mont Belvieu, roughly 30 miles east of Houston, after spending time at an off-campus disciplinary program, where he had been sent over his violation of the school districts dress and grooming policy and other infractions.

While in class, he was told he was in violation of the school dress code policy for not cutting his hair and was again referred to in-school suspension, Candice Matthews, a spokeswoman for Mr. Georges family, said in a statement.

A school official imposed a 13-day in-school suspension on Mr. George, the second suspension he had received this year over violation of the dress code.
A 42-year-old woman was fatally shot in east London on Tuesday evening in a rare deadly shooting, the authorities said.

Police found three people with gunshot wounds. The woman, whose name has not been released, died at the scene. A 20-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy were taken to a hospital, where their conditions are being assessed, Metropolitan Police said in a news release.

The shooting occurred in the Hackney area at about 6:30 p.m. local time. No arrests have been made.

Shootings, and guns, are far less common in British cities than in the United States. There were only nine gun homicides in London in 2022. By comparison, in Houston, a city with less than a fourth of Londons population, there were 401 gun homicides in 2021, according to an analysis of F.B.I. data by the gun control group Everytown.
For two months, President Biden has strongly backed Israels right to defend itself after the Oct. 7 terrorist attack by Hamas, in effect banking credibility with Jerusalem to be spent on moderating its response. But as Israeli forces push into southern Gaza, the question is when Mr. Bidens account will be drained and the checks start to bounce.

Administration officials insist they have meaningfully influenced Israels actions over the last few weeks thanks to the presidents approach, and continue to do so. But the nightly phone calls between Washington and Jerusalem have turned increasingly fraught and the public messages by some of the administrations top officials have become sharper in recent days.

The friction was evident on Tuesday when the State Department imposed visa bans on Israeli settlers in the West Bank who have committed violence against Palestinians, a rebuke to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for not doing more to restrain such attacks far from the action in Gaza. At the same time, in defiance of Washingtons warnings, Mr. Netanyahu said that Israels military would maintain security control over Gaza long after defeating Hamas.
Twice during a town hall on Fox News on Tuesday night, Sean Hannity asked former President Donald J. Trump to say categorically that he would not abuse presidential power and retaliate against his political opponents if elected next year.

Both times, Mr. Trump declined to give an outright denial.

First, Mr. Hannity, the moderator, asked Mr. Trump to respond to concerns raised by recent reporting that has detailed his violent rhetoric on the campaign trail and his vow to use the Justice Department against his political foes.

Do you in any way have any plans whatsoever, if re-elected president, to abuse power? Mr. Hannity asked. To break the law? To use the government to go after people?
A confidant of Donald J. Trump who is likely to serve in a senior national security role in any new Trump administration threatened on Tuesday to target journalists for prosecution if the former president regains the White House.

The confidant, Kash Patel, who served as Mr. Trumps counterterrorism adviser on the National Security Council and also as chief of staff to the acting secretary of defense, made the remarks on a podcast hosted by Stephen K. Bannon, Mr. Trumps former strategist, during a discussion about a potential second Trump presidency beginning in 2025.

We will go out and find the conspirators, not just in government but in the media, Mr. Patel said. Yes, were going to come after the people in the media who lied about American citizens, who helped Joe Biden rig presidential elections  were going to come after you. Whether its criminally or civilly, well figure that out. He added: Were actually going to use the Constitution to prosecute them for crimes they said we have always been guilty of but never have.

Earlier in the interview, when asked by Mr. Bannon whether a new administration would deliver the goods to get rolling on prosecutions early in a second term, Mr. Patel noted that the Trump team had a bench of all-America patriots, but he said he did not want to name any names so the radical left-wing media can terrorize them.
Among the 240 Palestinian prisoners and detainees released during the weeklong cease-fires between Israel and Hamas were 15 women who stood apart from the others: They were citizens of Israel.

The women are part of Israels Arab minority. Most were arrested after the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7 and charged based on their social media posts with identifying with a terrorist organization. None of them had been convicted of a crime, and all but one opposed being released as part of the deal, preferring to defend themselves in court, according to interviews with one of the women and three lawyers involved in their cases.

But in the end, those 14 of the 15 were released against their will, the lawyers said, leaving them confused about their legal status and scared of living with the stigma of being linked to a group that most Israelis consider an abhorrent terrorist organization.

Socially, it is very problematic, said Nareman Shehadeh Zoabi, an attorney at Adalah, an Israeli minority rights group, who is representing one of the women. We anticipate that there is going to be a very complex situation socially for them after being included in this agreement, and we are starting to see examples here and there.
House Democrats splintered on Tuesday over a resolution condemning the rise of antisemitism in the United States and around the world, with more than half of them declining to support a measure declaring that anti-Zionism is antisemitism.

The resolution denouncing antisemitism, drafted by Republicans, passed by a vote of 311 to 14, drawing the support of all but one Republican. Ninety-two Democrats voted present  not taking a position for or against the measure  while 95 supported it.

That reflected deep and growing divisions among Democrats between those who have offered unequivocal support for the Jewish state and its actions, and others  especially in the partys progressive wing  who have been critical of Israels policies and its conduct in the war with Hamas.

Under this resolution, those who love Israel deeply but criticize some of its policy approaches could be considered anti-Zionist, Representative Jerrold Nadler, Democrat of New York and the longest-serving Jewish member of the House, said in a floor speech before he voted present. That could make every Democratic Jewish member of this body, because they all criticized the recent Israeli judicial reform package, de facto antisemites. Might that be the authors intention?

Zionism began as the movement to create a Jewish state in the land previously known as Palestine, and since Israels founding, has been defined as the political ideology of supporting Israels continued existence as a Jewish state.

The House has passed a number of resolutions in recent weeks to declare solidarity with Israel, denounce antisemitism and repudiate the actions of Hamas and its supporters, after the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attack that killed more than 1,200 people and took about 240 more hostage.
Israeli soldiers pushed into the heart of the largest city in the southern Gaza Strip on Tuesday, Israel and Hamas said, amid some of the most intense bombing and ground combat of the war, and growing concerns that there is almost nowhere left for desperate civilians to flee.

The Israeli offensive drove deep into the southern Gazan city of Khan Younis  Hamass military capital, the Israeli military said  which was home to more than 200,000 people before the war, but swelled during the conflict with people who heeded an earlier Israeli order to evacuate all of the northern enclave.

Heavy bombardment was heard on Tuesday from inside Nasser Hospital, the citys largest, where many Palestinians had sought shelter and were sleeping in hallways. Video from the hospital showed that it was packed with people, including crying children and a young girl who was carried inside and bandaged on the floor.

The Israeli military said its soldiers were also still fighting Hamas in the north, in the Shajaiya neighborhood of Gaza City, and Jabaliya, a densely populated neighborhood north of Gaza City that was heavily bombed by Israeli warplanes in October.
When Dr. Yael Mozer-Glassberg, a senior physician at Schneider Childrens Medical Center of Israel, was initially asked to join the team of people who would be responsible for the intake of child hostages returning to Israel, her internal reaction was immediate.

Oh my God, no, she recalled saying to herself. But how could I say no? Its a national mission.

She was selected to join a group in Petah Tikva, near Tel Aviv, comprising the first medical professionals to care for a group of children and their mothers returning to Israel. During the cease-fire, which lasted from Nov. 24 to Dec. 1, the hospital admitted 19 children and 6 women who were kidnapped on Oct. 7 in Israel by Hamas and other militant groups.

To the initial surprise of many, the children were quick to speak freely about their experiences. Social workers and psychologists listened intently, as the children told stories with voices that barely reached whispers.

One child said he kept track of time by tearing off pieces of his fingernails and saving the clippings to count the days. Dr. Efrat Bron-Harlev, the director of Schneider Childrens Medical Center of Israel, said another child asked a flurry of questions: Are we allowed to look out the window? Are we allowed to open the door? Can we walk outside the room? Another child said she was confused to see people waiting for her because she was told that no one was looking for her, that no one cared for her, and that there would be no Israel left for her.

At times, a social worker or psychologist would step out of the room to cry.
GIA KOURLAS

A Year Overflowing With Dance and Great Dancers

The fall season has felt like a year  New York City Ballet kicked off its 75th anniversary celebrations and Dance Reflections, a festival sponsored by Van Cleef & Arpels, landed in New York. Fall also saw the opening of Intima, a new arts space in Ridgewood, Queens. When I couldnt fit shows into my schedule, I settled for dress rehearsals, including No Furniture: Suite for a Loft Apartment, by Lavinia Eloise Bruce. Formal and ferocious and held in a secret location  a South Street Seaport loft  No Furniture deserves another run.

But, really, all of 2023 has been overflowing with dance and with great dancers, who can be found anywhere. This year they included the extraordinary cast of Bob Fosses Dancin and JaBowen, a tap dancer from Chicago who performs with rhythmic dexterity and detail on a subway platform. The talent show gala at Pageant was blisteringly funny. (The choreographer Isa Spector took the top prize.) But 2023 was dark too, and one dancer should not be forgotten: OShae Sibley, who lost his young life while voguing in the parking lot of a Brooklyn gas station after a day at the beach.

What follows is a list, in no particular order, of some of the years most memorable moments in dance.

Cullberg

Deborah Hays hypnotic Horse, the Solos, performed at the Joyce Theater by the Swedish company Cullberg, cast an indelible spell in just an hour. Hay, a founding member of Judson Dance Theater, the 1960s experimental collective, was an associate artist at Cullberg for three years. Horse, both subtle and dramatic, reflects that time and trust. (Read our review of Horse, the Solos.)
Since the passage of what critics refer to as the Dont Say Gay bill in Florida, more than 40 similar policies have gone into effect in 22 states, according to the free-speech advocacy group PEN America. The American Library Association reported that attempts to ban books are up 20 percent this year nationwide, the highest level since the organization started collecting data more than 20 years ago.

When Go Figure was first staged at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, in 1997, it included a reflecting pool on which Finley projected the audiences responses to the question, What is offensive to you? Although the pool will not appear when the New York gallery Freight+Volume presents the work in Miami, the question remains a potent one. Tom Healy, Finleys former art dealer and a trustee of PEN America, said he would have been shocked to learn 25 years ago that todays left-leaning activists believe free speech should be balanced carefully against concerns about the care and safety of students before speakers with provocative ideas are invited to campus. There is a different sense of decency operative today in deciding what kind of speech should be free, Healy said.

And in the last months, a new front in the culture war has also opened up, on campuses with demonstrations over the Israel-Hamas war, and at some art institutions as they remove artworks or postpone shows of artists who have been critical of Israel.

The 1998 ruling did not go so far as to restrict the National Endowment for the Arts ability to fund indecent art, noted Amy Adler, a professor specializing in art law at New York University. In the end, the language was vague enough that it didnt mean much. But the firestorm nevertheless had an effect. In the years after Finley filed her lawsuit, the endowment stopped awarding fellowships to individual artists in all genres except literature. It shifted more money to state arts agencies, which critics said diminished its influence in Washington, and focused attention on community-based initiatives in lieu of avant-garde art.

Before the controversy, the N.E.A. was actually very progressive, supporting all kinds of edgy stuff, said David Joselit, a professor of art, film, and visual studies at Harvard University. Even modest grants were a seal of legitimation that made it easier to fund-raise. The agencys political opponents managed to more or less end all that, Joselit said, ushering in an era of privatized arts funding.

The case also had a major effect on Finley, who became a somewhat reluctant poster child for free speech. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art gave away one of her works. A Chicago concert venue canceled her appearance because management worried the establishment might lose its liquor license. The Whitney Museum of American Art called off a planned show that would have prominently featured Go Figure, citing budget constraints.
The dead body found in Charlottesville Monday afternoon near the railroad overpass over Roosevelt Brown Boulevard has been identified. However, police are waiting to release any information as they track down and notify the deceaseds next of kin.

Police Chief Michael Kochis confirmed on Tuesday afternoon that foul play was not suspected in the death.

The body is currently at the medical examiners office awaiting the results of a toxicology report, according to the chief. That could take weeks, he said.

This investigation is ongoing, said Charlottesville police in a statement issued Monday evening. Currently there does not appear to be foul play associated with this incident.
I was taught that that was the thing I should be doing: playing Rachmaninoff concerti, and not making them up myself, Schwartz said. I actually did play a Rachmaninoff concerto with the college orchestra. And at the end it was like, Did that, got the T-shirt. Im out of here.

In 1989, Schwartz traveled to the university town of Tubingen, Germany, for what was supposed to be a one-year exchange program as part of his graduate school studies in Arizona. He has lived in Germany ever since.

Schwartz considered studying musicology, but a professor, citing his then-rudimentary German, discouraged him. Instead, Schwartz practiced the language and worked on the assembly line of a Mercedes-Benz factory. I was either listening to German grammar or to music, because the job was super boring, he said. You could sit there for hours and not have a single part come by. (He now speaks German so fluently he sometimes needs a moment to find an English word.)

In 1990, Schwartz became an assistant in the musical archives of the Stuttgart State Theater, where he did what he described as menial tasks. Later, the theater noticed his composition skill, and hired him to write small pieces of incidental music. The job wasnt for him. I dont like being subordinate to some director saying, I need four bars of minor and those kinds of ridiculous demands, Schwartz said.

But he did take advantage of free tickets to everything at the theater. He saw opera, ballet or theater nearly every night, and listened to contemporary music on public radio. He made some of his closest friends in those years. Still, it was a time of soul-searching. An identity crisis comes with entering a foreign country, Schwartz said. And that whole identity crisis is super important for forming an artist. I had years when I couldnt compose. When it did happen, it was a flood.
A woman who worked at the Grammys organization in the 1990s has accused its former chief executive, Michael Greene, of drugging and sexually abusing her nearly 30 years ago and of making sex a condition of her employment, according to a lawsuit filed in California on Wednesday.

Terri McIntyre, a former executive director of the Los Angeles chapter of the Recording Academy, the nonprofit group behind the Grammy Awards, sued Mr. Greene in Los Angeles Superior Court, in the latest of a wave of lawsuits accusing powerful men in the music industry of past misconduct.

In her suit, which also names the Recording Academy as a defendant, Ms. McIntyre says that from 1994 to 1996, Mr. Greene caught her in a trap in which he regularly pressured her into sexual contact, and forced sex on her against her will.

Mr. Greene could not be immediately reached for comment but has previously denied allegations that he sexually harassed employees while an executive with the Grammys.
All in the Family, which Lear had spent years trying to develop for the networks, personified the countrys conflicts under one roof, at 704 Hauser in Queens. Archie Bunker (Carroll OConnor), the racist, reactionary dockworker, was the choleric face of the kind of blue-collar workers, alienated by social change, who had attacked antiwar demonstrators in the hard hat riots the previous spring. He sparred with his feminist daughter, Gloria (Sally Struthers), and her leftist husband, Michael (Rob Reiner), while his anxious wife, Edith (Jean Stapleton), tried to keep an increasingly elusive peace.

Lear designed All in the Family to air arguments audiences werent hearing in escapist sitcoms. (Other sounds too: The pilot episode featured, for the first time on network TV, the noise of a flushing toiletterlet, in Archie-speak  which was the shows shot heard round the world.) Its format was theater-like, its dialogue rough and real, its comedy smart but not highbrow. It was a lightning revolution, claiming the No. 1 spot in the ratings and holding on for five years.

All in the Family was based on a British series, Till Death Us Do Part. The title of the original refers, of course, to wedding vows  that is, to the relationship between two people. The title All in the Family expanded that outward. The troubles were in our family, the fights were in our family, the racists were in our family. We were bound to them.

So Archie Bunker, for all his prejudice and bullheadedness, had to be vivid, alive, funny. Yes, there was a risk that audiences would laugh with his bigotry and not at it. But if you couldnt like him, you couldnt see how any of the other characters could love him. And if you couldnt see that, then you couldnt see the Archie in any of the people that you loved.

Lears connection to Archie was intimate. His own father, he told NPR, was a bit of an Archie Bunker, given to using racist language, and Lear based the character in part on him. But Archie was also, like Lear, a World War II veteran who had been based in Italy with the Army Air Forces.
Read Your Way Around the World is a series exploring the globe through books.

Few challenges are as complex in Madrid as finding a cat. Not the animal, but a gato  someone who was born in Madrid, whose parents and grandparents were born in Madrid. Nobody in Madrid was born here: Youll seldom be asked where you are from, because the assumption is that youre from somewhere else, although suspicion  and prejudice  can come up when you have a certain accent or skin color.

I was not born in Madrid, but I am from Madrid. When I think of the books that have been written about the city, the thread that unites them has to do with the gaze  and the experience  of those who come from elsewhere to forge their identity here: that feeling of looking for a place of ones own in a city that is difficult, often hostile, and that refuses to be reduced to an ideal.

But Madrid, of course. The city of the corrales de comedias, open-air theaters where the medium was reinvented during our Golden Age. The city in whose cafes Leandro Fernandez de Moratin, Ramon Gomez de la Serna and Gloria Fuertes all talked about literature  unfortunately not at the same time, though what a discussion that would have been! The city of the Generation of 1927, where Federico Garcia Lorca, Lucia Sanchez Saornil and Vicente Aleixandre began their careers. The city that was also Ruben Darios, Gabriela Mistrals and Juan Carlos Onettis, no matter that they hailed from another continent. The city where Carmen Laforet, who was born in Barcelona, and Angela Figuera Aymerich, from Bilbao, wrote. The Capital of the World, as Ernest Hemingway called it in his short story, which takes us back to the months before the Spanish Civil War.

What should I read before I pack my bags?

No one has portrayed Madrid with greater intensity than Benito Perez Galdos. Part of his 46-volume, Balzacian series National Episodes takes place here; from it, Id choose Fortunata and Jacinta, a choral novel that discusses the way the city constructs its social classes, and vice versa. Camilo Jose Celas The Hive is also a good choice, teeming with hundreds of characters who cross paths in the Madrid of the early years of Francisco Francos dictatorship, for which the author worked as a censor. To get to know those who live in Madrid, you must also read Livings the Strange Thing, a gorgeous novel by Carmen Martin Gaite about daily life in the city.
There were a ton of amazing horror books published in 2023, and as a genre, horror delivered so much  from fresh takes on vampire stories to historical works that looked at racism and misogyny. That made selecting just 10 titles for this list a formidable task. So consider this a personal pantheon of favorites from 2023.

Some of the books on this list are easy reads and some will challenge you. Some are long and multilayered while others have a great sense of humor or unfurl at breakneck speed. Some adhere to a classic understanding of horror and others aim to redefine it. The important thing is that they are all outstanding.
Gazans flee Khan Younis, but refuge is hard to find

The Israeli offensive in the southern Gaza Strip has set off another migration of distressed civilians, as thousands of people flee the city of Khan Younis, where the Israeli military is waging close-quarter battles with Hamas fighters.

Many Palestinians have fled to the southern border town of Rafah, where the U.N. has said that shelters are packed beyond capacity. Many of the displaced were forced to sleep in the street or in empty lots and other abandoned areas.

Humanitarian conditions in southern Gaza have been growing increasingly dire. Antonio Guterres, the U.N. secretary general, said that the situation in Gaza was fast deteriorating into a catastrophe with potentially irreversible implications for Palestinians as a whole, and for peace and security in the region. Heres the latest.

Israel has urged civilians to leave their homes for Rafah or Al-Mawasi, an agricultural area near the Mediterranean Sea. But strikes have continued in both places. Gazans and aid groups say that Al-Mawasi, in particular, does not have the infrastructure necessary to ease the crisis.
Horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty

President Biden condemned the unimaginable cruelty of Hamas attackers who raped and mutilated women in Israel on Oct. 7, and he blamed the terrorist groups refusal to release its remaining female hostages for the breakdown in cease-fire talks. Hamas has rejected the allegations. Read an analysis of Bidens foreign policy strategy.

Survivors and witnesses of the attacks have shared the horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty, Biden said. Reports of women raped  repeatedly raped  and their bodies being mutilated while still alive  of women corpses being desecrated, Hamas terrorists inflicting as much pain and suffering on women and girls as possible and then murdering them.

Matt Miller, a State Department spokesman, said that a number of people believe that Hamas did not want to release female hostages because of the stories they would tell about how they were treated. But he said he was not able to speak with a definitive assessment that that is the case.

At the U.N.: A presentation organized in part by Sheryl Sandberg, the Silicon Valley executive, accused the organization of ignoring the rape and mutilation of women by Hamas and recounted gruesome details from witnesses.
This year has been a good one for labor unions. They have won victories in Hollywood and the auto industry, and 67 percent of Americans approve of unions, according to Gallup. Still, I remain skeptical that union organizing is on the cusp of a major turnaround, unless federal law changes. For now, companies that arent unionized have many ways to prevent a union from forming even when most workers want to join one.

But my colleague Noam Scheiber, who covers the workplace and labor, thinks I may be underestimating the chances of big change in the next few years. I asked Noam to use todays newsletter to explain why he thinks 2023 was such an important year for organized labor.  David Leonhardt

Momentum matters

Employers do have real advantages when seeking to suppress unions. If an employer fires a worker for trying to organize a union  which is illegal  it typically takes years to litigate the case. Even if the employer is found guilty, it will at most have to pay back wages and some other make whole compensation, not a financial penalty for the wrongdoing. So theres little disincentive to violating the law.

In 2021, the National Labor Relations Board found that Tesla had illegally fired a worker four years earlier for engaging in union activity, and the board ordered the company to reinstate him with back pay. Tesla appealed the decision in federal court and lost but is continuing to appeal. The worker has yet to be reinstated. Starbucks and Amazon have taken similar approaches.
This article is part of our special section on the DealBook Summit that included business and policy leaders from around the world.

The future is here, and for many in the media business, its terrifying.

In an effort to understand threats facing the media during the upcoming presidential campaign, I asked a technology firm in California to create a deep fake video of President Biden, the kind of inauthentic footage that could flummox journalists on Election Day.

The results were sobering. Within seconds, the company  which requested anonymity because of the controversial nature of the assignment  transformed my likeness into President Bidens, using artificial intelligence technology and a snippet of video I recorded.

Every presidential election cycle in recent memory has been shaped by the emergence of a new technology or the exploitation of an existing one. But 2024 will be more complicated. In addition to threats posed by deep fakes, journalists will have to fight a battle for the truth on multiple fronts, grappling with tricky coverage of the criminal proceedings against former President Donald J. Trump and sagging trust in the news media.
Why It Matters: Relief for carmakers that were facing tariffs.

The proposal provides for a three-year delay in the trade rule, and represents a huge reprieve for many carmakers, especially those with plants in Britain. Eighty percent of cars made in Britain are exported, with 60 percent of them going to the European Union. The delay means that British electric vehicles with batteries made outside Europe will no longer face tariffs of up to 10 percent starting in three weeks.

European carmakers would have faced similar hits in their sales of cars to Britain, a major market. The delay will probably be seen as a win for Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks British government, which lobbied for the change along with the European car industry.

Background: Europe and Britain do not make enough batteries.

The rule would have made it virtually impossible for cars made in Britain with batteries from Asia to be imported tariff-free into the European Union.

Neither Britain nor the Europe Union is manufacturing enough batteries for the rising number of electric vehicles expected to be produced in coming years. Batteries are the most expensive components of electric vehicles.

Local origin rules are designed to discourage automakers from importing expensive parts, and to encourage local production. But this rule would have been counterproductive, the auto industry argued, by forcing consumers to pay more for many electric vehicles. Those higher prices could have opened the door for electric vehicles from outside Europe, especially China, whose makers are churning out low-cost models that have gained traction in Britain.

What Happens Next: Time for the battery industry to catch up.

The proposal still needs the support of European Union governments. Early indications are that it will be welcomed by auto industry. An extension would give the European battery industry time to catch up, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, a British trade group, said Wednesday in a statement.

Mr. Sefcovic also said the European Union planned to provide 3 billion euros ($3.25 billion) to encourage local manufacturing of batteries.
Virginia State Police are looking for a witness to a hit-and-run crash on May 24 that killed a pedestrian on Parkersburg Turnpike in Augusta County.

A vehicle traveling east on Parkersburg Turnpike hit 42-year-old Staunton resident Ricky C. Dickey. Dickey died at the scene.

The following day, a man who discovered a cell phone on the ground at the scene turned the device into the Swoope Fire Department.

Virginia State Police want to talk to the individual to determine the proximity of the phone to the fatal crash site. The man is not believed to have been involved in the accident.

The man is encouraged to call the Virginia State Police Area 17 office in Staunton at (540) 885-2142 or contact them by email at questions@vsp.virginia.gov.

In May, state police announced the suspect vehicle is believed to be a maroon or red truck or SUV. Damage to the vehicles right front headlight, front turn signal and/or both would have happened.

The state police continue to seek information about the suspect vehicle and/or suspect driver.
Eight years ago, Megyn Kellys turn as a debate moderator made headlines around the world. Before an audience of 24 million Fox News viewers, she confronted Donald J. Trump about his history of misogynist remarks, setting off a well-publicized feud that helped her leap from cable news to NBC.

This week, Ms. Kelly returns to television as a moderator of Wednesdays Republican debate. A breakout moment may be harder to come by.

For one thing, Mr. Trump is almost certainly not going to appear, despite Ms. Kellys warm entreaties. (Mr. President, she wrote on X, you would be more than welcome and we would love to have you.) And her appearance will be seen by a fraction of her old audience: The debate will air on NewsNation, an upstart cable network unfamiliar to many Americans.

It is still a milestone for Ms. Kelly, whose career imploded when NBC canceled her show in 2018, after she mused on air about whether white people could wear blackface on Halloween. The ouster followed weak ratings and a series of incidents that suggested her punchy and confrontational style was a poor fit for the serene pastures of morning TV.
Three years after Bayer agreed to pay $10 billion to settle claims that its weedkiller, Roundup, caused cancer, juries continue to award plaintiffs in additional cases billions of dollars in damages, even as the German drug and chemicals giant insists it will continue its fight in court.

In the past two months, in four separate cases, juries have awarded more than $2 billion in damages to a handful of roughly 50,000 claims that werent covered by the 2020 settlement. The $10 billion agreement is one of the largest in history.

Bayer has set aside an additional $6 billion, which the company has said is enough to cover pending lawsuits as well as potential future ones. But analysts and investors worry Bayer could be on the hook for billions more, threatening the 160-year-old companys future.

Some of the countrys most high profile plaintiffs lawyers  including a team that won an estimated $1 billion settlement in 2021 from Johnson & Johnson involving its antipsychotic drug Risperdal  are representing thousands of individuals seeking damages from Bayer. Plaintiffs have at least a dozen cases on court dockets in the coming months.
A British hedge-fund trader accused of defrauding Danish taxpayers of $1.3 billion has been extradited to Denmark by the United Arab Emirates, where he had lived for more than a decade.

The trader, Sanjay Shah, was taken into police custody on Wednesday morning after his arrival in Copenhagen and is expected to appear in court on Thursday for a bail hearing.

Danish authorities have been pursuing Mr. Shah since learning that starting in 2012, they said, he and colleagues at Solo Capital in London had found a way to siphon money from the countrys version of the Internal Revenue Service. The method involved a complicated, carefully choreographed trade of tax refunds on stock dividends. Mr. Shah has long maintained his innocence.

These so-called cum-ex trades had been used by other traders to drain fortunes from other countries in what one academic called the biggest tax theft in the history of Europe. The toll has become clear in a continuing reckoning of arrests and trials on the continent. Germany was taken for about $30 billion, France lost about $17 billion, and smaller sums were lifted from Poland, Norway, Austria, Italy and others.
John Kerry, President Bidens special envoy for climate change, said on Wednesday that the United States supported a phaseout of fossil fuels, his clearest statement yet on Americas position on one of the most intractable issues under debate at the United Nations climate talks in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Mr. Kerry said that largely ending the burning of coal, gas and oil was required to limit average global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels, which many scientists say is necessary to prevent the most catastrophic effects of climate change. The planet has already warmed by 1.2 degrees Celsius.

Weve got to do what the science tells us to do, and the science has been clear, Mr. Kerry told reporters gathered at a news conference at the summit, known as COP28, which began on Nov. 30 and runs until Dec. 12.
The Biden administration delayed a decision on Wednesday about whether it would ban menthol cigarettes amid intense lobbying from tobacco companies, convenience stores and industry-backed groups that contend that billions of dollars in sales and jobs will be lost.

The proposal has also generated concerns that Black smokers will become the targets of aggressive police tactics, although some Black leaders, top lawmakers and government officials dispute that and say that tobacco companies are financing and fueling those fears.

The plan to eliminate menthol cigarettes has been years in the making. The Food and Drug Administration formally proposed an official rule last year, aimed at reducing health disparities, citing statistics that an estimated 85 percent of Black smokers prefer menthol brands. Black men especially face outsize health risks, including high rates of smoking-related lung cancer and death.

In recent months, dozens of groups have had appointments with administration officials to discuss the proposal. Tobacco companies and convenience store groups fighting the ban have aligned with the National Action Network, founded by the Rev. Al Sharpton, to advance the argument about the potential for racial targeting by the police. The group attended a large meeting with tobacco lobbyists and top administration officials on Nov. 20.
Readers Respond

Last weeks question was from a woman who was questioning whether it was appropriate for her to own West African art. She wrote: I was privileged to have been raised in a family who prized the arts, including works from cultures that were not our own. (We are of European ancestry.) Among the art in my childhood home was a significant collection of masks, statues, figurines and other objects from mostly West African cultures. My father, who acquired these pieces in the 1970s and 80s through art dealers, has always taken pride in the idea that they were not tourist art. Most of the items date to the 19th and early 20th centuries. I have come into possession of several of these items over the years, and always appreciated them for their artistic qualities. But as my understanding of the horrors of colonialism and the legacy of slavery expands, I question whether its ethical for me to display a Baule mask or a Yoruba dance wand  ceremonial items with deep spiritual and cultural significance.  Some friends have suggested donation to a local museum that specializes in African art, but this would perpetuate the colonialist attitude that these objects dont belong where they were created. Is it possible to repatriate them?

In his response, the Ethicist noted: Many African objects that Westerners now treat as art works were sold, like the weights and carvings my mother bought, by people who had the right to sell them. Still, Ive heard it argued that anything acquired during the colonial period (as your possessions may have been) was unjustly expropriated  that the colonial context ruled out freely made choices, even outside circumstances of overt violence. The implication is that people who sold these objects were dupes of the buyer, ignoramuses unaware of the value of what they were selling, or else intimidated into making the sale. Careful accounts of such transactions (notably by Michel Leiris, who accompanied a French collecting expedition through Africa in the 1930s) indicate that skulduggery sometimes took place, but that it wasnt the norm.  Nor, finally, does the fact that you are not of African descent make it wrong for you to have these things, any more than it would be wrong for members of the historically powerful Yoruba to possess a stool from their Nupe neighbors. (Yes, West Africas long history, like Europes, features plenty of conquest and pillage.) Prizing cultural artifacts from around the globe bespeaks, at its best, a cosmopolitan sensibility  one thats especially important in a world increasingly narrowed by nativism. (Reread the full question and answer here.)



I agree with the Ethicist and found his response so interesting and personal. The letter writer may feel uncomfortable having these objects in her possession, so she should donate a few to a museum in need and keep any receipts or provenance with those objects as part of the donation.  Susan



I disagree with the Ethicist on this one. Certainly, how the objects were acquired is an important concern, but its not the only one here. The concern Im thinking about might be less ethical than political. Still, I would argue that one needs to think about the ways in which someone of European ancestry displaying African artifacts and works of art that have spiritual and historical value is a continuation of an ethic, aesthetic and politics of appropriation (forcible or not) that are emblematic of slavery, colonialism and white supremacy. Describing that as a cosmopolitan impulse strikes me as oblivious to the ways in which colonialism, imperialism and Orientalism have relied, in many instances, on what has often been described as cosmopolitanism. Restricting our understanding of the harmful impacts of colonialism to the forcible or coercive is a very limited way of understanding colonial violence and its effects on colonized peoples and cultures. If repatriating the art is not possible, the letter writer should please find ways to rehouse it with local diasporic communities that originate from these countries whose artifacts shes displaying.  Soha



I had a similar experience when I inherited a pair of Native American moccasins and a beaded belt. They were obviously, and by family stories, from the 1870s. I also had owners guilt. I contacted the state historical society for advice about contacting an Indigenous Elder who might give me information or suggestions for ownership transfer. No help. I contacted the closest, most prosperous casino-owning nation. There was no interest since I did not know which native group had produced them. So I took them to a trusted conservator, had them stabilized and displayed on my wall while trying to imagine the life of a teenager from Ohio traversing the plains of Montana and the Dakotas.  Caroline
Which is hard to get right, the big film or the indie?

MESCAL A film like All of Us Strangers or Aftersun. Ive been incredibly lucky that those scripts came across my desk because theres lots of other indies that are really well intentioned that dont reach an audience. Also, its hard to go to the emotional well year after year with stuff like this, so I dont want an audience to get bored of my choices or expect that Im going to do that.

SCOTT Do you remember you got the Gladiator call when we were on the set of All of Us Strangers? You were so excited. I think I was even more excited, but you were so lit up about it. I think one of the fun things about being an actor thats open to you is that you can do whatever you really want.

MESCAL Thats what makes you tick, to go from scenes like we get to play in All of Us Strangers to then doing stuff where youre running around in an arena. If I was to boil down why I love this job, its that you get to go to work and pretend all day long but the thing that you would imagine as a child is actually actualized.

SCOTT Have there been any moments in Gladiator where youre like, This is amazing?

MESCAL The first day was just bananas. There was camels and thousands of extras. Two close-ups on me. A close-up on the action. And youre just like, Ive got to fake this till I make it. Wild. Wild. Wild.

SCOTT Yeah, its playing. It really is. Youre required to play a part, youre not required to work a part.

Its heartening to hear you both describe acting as play or pretend. You talk about it in such joyful terms, but some of the other leading men Ive spoken to will 
After months of public deliberation and prodding from donors aligned with Israel, George Latimer, the Westchester County executive, said on Wednesday that he would mount a Democratic primary challenge against Representative Jamaal Bowman of New York.

The decision set the stage for a potentially explosive contest next year that promises to test not only the growing Democratic divide over the war in the Middle East but the durability of the partys progressive wing.

In an interview, Mr. Latimer drew sharp contrasts between himself and Mr. Bowman, one of the lefts most vocal critics of Israel. He dismissed the incumbents calls for a cease-fire as premature and called a recent protest outside the White House, where the congressman accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, a political stunt.

Its about results, not rhetoric, said Mr. Latimer, who has deep ties to the Democratic establishment. So much of politics has turned into that sort of showmanship  how you look in front of the cameras.
Mayor Eric Adams, who faces a federal investigation into his campaign fund-raising and rampant criticism over his handling of the migrant crisis, has seen his approval rating plunge to 28 percent, according to a Quinnipiac University poll released on Wednesday.

The approval rating  the lowest for any New York City mayor in a Quinnipiac poll since it began surveying the city in 1996  reveals the extent of the political damage Mr. Adams has suffered in recent weeks, after the F.B.I. seized his cellphones, a woman filed a legal claim accusing him of sexual assault in 1993 and he made unpopular budget cuts to the police, schools and libraries.

Roughly 58 percent of New Yorkers disapproved of Mr. Adamss job as mayor, and the dissatisfaction was nearly across the board. A majority of those polled said that the mayor did not have strong leadership qualities, did not understand their problems and was not honest or trustworthy.

He also received some of his lowest ratings over his handling of homelessness and the city budget, with only 22 percent of voters supporting him on those issues.
Getting started on a farm is hard these days with land prices so high  so high in fact that many farmers are selling out to developers. Not many young Virginians start farms.

But Chris and Katherine Myer grew up on farms and, when they spotted 42.5 acres of rich-looking ground just outside the town limits of Mineral, they thought they had found a way to get back to the land.

Problem was, after buying the land in February, they learned that Louisa County zoned it for residential use.

So they have taken the rare step of asking a county to approve the less intensive use of running a few cattle, letting their 7- and 8-year-old daughters have some horses, and cutting hay in the back 40.

We just wanted to be completely above board, Chris Myer said.

At a cost of a $690 fee, he asked the county to say its OK to farm on land that the county had for more than half a century intended for new homes as the town of Mineral grew  but that the family of the previous owners had farmed since 1900.

Still, as recently as a couple of years ago, drafting the countys 2040 comprehensive plan, new houses were still what everyone had in mind.

Myer figured his youth growing up on the family farm in Clarke County and Katherine Myers youth on a corn-wheat-soybean operation on the Northern Neck offered another option.

Wed like to have a few steers, some horses for my daughters, and whatever other animals the girls get into, Myer said.

He plans to cut hay to feed the steers and maybe sell any extra to other farmers.

The 42.5 acres isnt a big farm, of course. Like many Virginia farmers, even some with hundreds of acres, the Myers will keep their day jobs.

Itll be supplemental income, Chris Myer said.

Well probably have 12 or 15 steers  the USDA says you should have 1 1/2 to 2 acres per steer, depending on how big they are, he said.

Were not going to be a commercial cattle operation. ... Well sell high-quality, locally grown beef for the freezer, maybe do meat shares, he said.

Myer said his plan is to rotate the cattle around the farm, to avoid overgrazing and soil erosion. He also plans to expand the lands existing buffers and natural spaces to encourage wildlife.

It is an unusual case, said Louisa County Director of Community Development Josh Gillespie.

And while the area to the east of Mineral has long been designated for residential use, theres been little development since along Old Tolersville Road after a handful of homes went up in the 1980s, he said.

While this proposed use may delay low density residential development of the Property and surrounding parcels ... At the present time, the proposed request supports the Countys goal of maintaining areas of rural character and maintaining and managing growth, county planning staff said in recommending the Myers request to the planning commission. It approved the proposal.

The primary goal of the countys comprehensive plan  the same one that sees the area east of Mineral as a site for new homes  is to preserve and protect rural heritage, the planners noted.

Since 2015, Virginias farmland has shrunk from approximately 8.1 million acres to 7.7 million acres, with around 3,200 farms lost, according to the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation.

Rising real estate values mean its tempting for farmers to sell out in order to cope with the squeeze in recent years on their margins  the gap between what they sell their crops and livestock for and what it costs to raise them and pay off mortgage and equipment loans, said Tony Banks, senior assistant director of agriculture, development and innovation for the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation.

And while the Myers are fourth- and fifth-generation farmers, many young people who grew up on farms decide that it makes better financial sense for them to live and work in cities or suburbs.

On top of that, high startup costs prohibit many from entering farming, Banks said.

But small-scale operation and niche markets can be a way for Virginians to start farming, said Rachel Henley, Virginia Cooperative Extension agent in Powhatan County, where some landowners in the countys Agricultural and Forestal District program are raising pumpkins and sunflowers.

This land always was a farm, Chris Myer said. Were just going to keep it that way.
At a police training seminar in Atlantic City, N.J., one instructor flashed a photo of a monkey while telling participants about his interaction with a 75-year-old Black man, video shows. Another appeared to mock the L.G.B.T.Q. community: He or she, him, her, she, him  whatever you want to call people now. Several instructors referred to the size of their genitals in lectures that glorified violence.

And Dennis Benigno, the founder of Street Cop Training, which led the seminar and describes itself as the fastest-growing private police training company in the United States, told the attendees that he looked forward to vacations in Colombia surrounded by cocaine, hookers and poor girls who need to do things to make money.

Nearly 1,000 police officers from across the country listened to Mr. Benigno and the other instructors during the six-day, $499 seminar in October 2021, according to an investigation and video footage released Wednesday by Kevin D. Walsh, New Jerseys acting comptroller.

Tax dollars paid much of the bill.

We found so many examples of so many instructors promoting views and tactics that were wildly inappropriate, offensive, discriminatory, harassing and, in some cases, likely illegal, Mr. Walsh said in a statement.
However, the spectacular location of the property, with its uninterrupted views of the entire Teton Range, makes it a prime candidate for a developer who might be able to build up to 54 multimillion-dollar homes. That number of homes could create roughly 60 new jobs in the county, according to a study that looked at the impact of development on the town of Jackson and Teton County  plumbers, electricians, landscapers, housekeepers  increasing the already high demand for police officers, firefighters and medical personnel. Many of these newcomers would also need housing, inevitably adding to the sprawl that has eroded the wild lands of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

A study published in 2018 by two ecologists at Montana State University found that since 1970, the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystems human population has doubled and housing density has tripled, with both projected to double by 2050. One of the authors, Andrew Hansen, told Smithsonian Magazine last year: Rural homes more or less ring the public land on all sides of the park. And changes in these private lands surrounding the park really influences what happens in the park.

The Wyoming Office of State Lands and Investment, whose job is to generate income from these trust lands for the public schools, recently recommended that the Kelly Parcel be sold to the highest bidder. This followed an enormous outcry of opposition across Wyoming, with virtually all of the more than 8,000 people who submitted public comments to the agency opposed to auctioning off the parcel. The agency has suggested setting the opening bid at $80 million.

Its our job to provide the best fiduciary responsibility for the state, Jason Crowder, the deputy director of the state lands office, explained as his agency set the opening bid above the lands appraised value. He added that it was now up to the Board of Land Commissioners to weigh public commentary and decide how to dispose of the parcel.

On Dec. 7, the board  made up of Wyomings governor, secretary of state, auditor, treasurer and superintendent of public instruction  will decide whether to auction off the Kelly Parcel. But there is also another approach. The governor and the Wyoming State Legislature should step in and authorize a deal with the National Park Service that will both support public schools and protect the parcel.
Germany occupies a special place in the international imagination. After the horrors of the Holocaust and the difficulties of reunification, the country acquired a reputation as a leader of the free world. Economically prosperous, politically stable and more welcoming to immigrants than most other countries, the Germans  many thought  had really learned their lesson.

The past few months have been a bit of a rude awakening. The economy is stuttering and a constitutional court ruling has upended the governments spending plans. The far-right Alternative for Germany party, fresh from success in two regional elections, is cementing itself as the countrys second-most-popular party. Migrants are in politicians cross hairs, threatened with deportation and reduced support. And the countrys commitment to fighting antisemitism seems not only to be failing but also to have given rise to an outpouring of anti-Muslim sentiment.

The truth is that Germany never fully deserved its vaunted reputation. The export-led economy depended on a large low-wage sector and the countrys position in the European Union. The far right  ensconced in parts of the state  never went away, and the celebrated Willkommenskultur, short lived in any case, couldnt conceal enduring xenophobia and suspicion about foreigners. The culture of remembrance and historical reckoning, too, was far from perfect. Even so, the sudden coarsening of public life in the service of a warped sense of national identity is striking. Germany, supposed model of fair-minded moderation, has become mean.

The countrys response to the war in Gaza has been illustrative of this new spirit. In the days after Hamass massacre on Oct. 7, the German government declared its unshakable support for Israel. Chancellor Olaf Scholz  following his predecessor, Angela Merkel  emphasized that Israels security is Germanys Staatsrason, or reason of state. It was Germanys duty, given its history and its responsibility for the Holocaust, to stand up against antisemitism, Mr. Scholz said.
To the Editor:

Stop Corporatizing My Students, by Beth Ann Fennelly (Opinion guest essay, nytimes.com, Nov. 15), is a heartfelt reminder that humanistic studies are critical to developing thoughtful, compassionate and functional citizens. Yes, developing skills to make a living is essential, but, as Ms. Fennelly writes, learning to fail better and dream must come first, for a while anyway.

During a time of immense technological change, war and political division, nothing is more important than having the intellectual confidence to challenge what you see, hear and read with thoughtful questions. Humanistic study provides young students with an opportunity to develop their intellectual confidence.

We should want our students to graduate intellectually and emotionally confident. That confidence is the foundation for success in the workplace. Too often, we think that skills solve problems, but, in fact, problem-solving starts by asking the right question first.

I taught undergraduates and graduate students for over 25 years, and nothing lights up a classroom more than a student who, for the first time, steps forward to address a problem with their newfound intellectual confidence.
When European Union leaders introduced a 125-page draft law to regulate artificial intelligence in April 2021, they hailed it as a global model for handling the technology.

E.U. lawmakers had gotten input from thousands of experts for three years about A.I., when the topic was not even on the table in other countries. The result was a landmark policy that was future proof, declared Margrethe Vestager, the head of digital policy for the 27-nation bloc.

Then came ChatGPT.

The eerily humanlike chatbot, which went viral last year by generating its own answers to prompts, blindsided E.U. policymakers. The type of A.I. that powered ChatGPT was not mentioned in the draft law and was not a major focus of discussions about the policy. Lawmakers and their aides peppered one another with calls and texts to address the gap, as tech executives warned that overly aggressive regulations could put Europe at an economic disadvantage.

Even now, E.U. lawmakers are arguing over what to do, putting the law at risk. We will always be lagging behind the speed of technology, said Svenja Hahn, a member of the European Parliament who was involved in writing the A.I. law.
Though their attempts to keep up with developments in artificial intelligence have mostly fallen short, regulators around the world are taking vastly different approaches to policing the technology. The result is a highly fragmented and confusing global regulatory landscape for a borderless technology that promises to transform job markets, contribute to the spread of disinformation or even present a risk to humanity.

The major frameworks for regulating A.I. include:

Europes Risk-Based Law: The European Unions A.I. Act, which is being negotiated on Wednesday, assigns regulations proportionate to the level of risk posed by an A.I. tool. The idea is to create a sliding scale of regulations aimed at putting the heaviest restrictions on the riskiest A.I. systems. The law would categorize A.I. tools based on four designations: unacceptable, high, limited and minimal risk.

Unacceptable risks include A.I. systems that perform social scoring of individuals or real-time facial recognition in public places. They would be banned. Other tools carrying less risk, such as software that generates manipulated videos and deepfake images must disclose that people are seeing A.I.-generated content. Violators could be fined 6 percent of their global sales. Minimally risky systems include spam filters and A.I.-generated video games.

U.S. Voluntary Codes of Conduct: The Biden administration has given companies leeway to voluntarily police themselves for safety and security risks. In July, the White House announced that several A.I. makers, including Amazon, Anthropic, Google, Inflection, Meta, Microsoft and OpenAI, had agreed to self-regulate their systems.
Acknowledgments that New York was once home to the Lenape people have become a familiar refrain at arts venues. In Manahatta, the playwright Mary Kathryn Nagle undertakes a vital investigation of that willfully forgotten history so often rendered in shorthand. Now open at the Public Theater, just a few subway stops away from Wall Street, Nagles play traces the origins of American finance and the follies of its bottomless appetite for capital to the exploitation of the Lenape by the citys Dutch settlers.

The Lenape people have been so forcefully expelled from their Northeastern homelands that the descendants Nagle depicts, beginning in 2002, live in what is now Oklahoma. Jane (Elizabeth Frances), an MIT and Stanford graduate, is interviewing for an entry-level Wall Street job when her father dies on an operating table. By the time she returns home, her sister Debra (Rainbow Dickerson) and their mother Bobbie (a delightfully dry Sheila Tousey) are preparing for his funeral, and Bobbie is stuck with medical bills because the Indian Health Service, a government agency responsible for providing health services to Native peoples, has refused payment.

Intercut with this family drama are fable-like scenes set in 17th-century Manahatta, where West India Company traders barter with the Lenape for furs coveted by the women they left behind in the Old World. The ensemble of seven actors appear in both timelines, including Enrico Nassi, who plays Luke, Janes childhood friend and would-be sweetheart, and Se-ket-tu-may-qua, an emissary who communicates with the Dutch and teaches Le-le-wa-you, a Lenape woman also played by Frances, to speak their foreign tongue. Back in Manhattan, Jane is learning the sort of blustery talk necessary to chart her climb through the corporate ranks.

First developed at the Public in 2014, when Nagle was a member of its Emerging Writers Group, Manahatta premiered at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in 2018. Its purview is promising and ambitious: In addition to the blood-soaked roots of American capitalism, Nagle addresses the erasure of Native languages through forced assimilation, and the irrevocable impacts of Western violence, religion and consumer currency on Native culture.
In response on Wednesday, Senator Bob Casey, Democrat of Pennsylvania, did not mince words. President Magills comments yesterday were offensive, but equally offensive was what she didnt say, he said in a statement. The right to free speech is fundamental, but calling for the genocide of Jews is antisemitic and harassment, full stop.

Senator John Fetterman, a Pennsylvania Democrat, described the testimony as a significant fail.

There is no both sides-ism and it isnt free speech, its simply hate speech, he said in a statement. It was embarrassing for a venerable Pennsylvania university, and it should be reflexive for leaders to condemn antisemitism and stand up for the Jewish community or any community facing this kind of invective.

On Wednesday evening, Ms. Magill apologized for her testimony.

In that moment, I was focused on our universitys longstanding policies aligned with the U.S. Constitution, which say that speech alone is not punishable, she said in a video. I was not focused on, but I should have been, the irrefutable fact that a call for genocide of Jewish people is a call for some of the most terrible violence human beings can perpetrate. Its evil  plain and simple.

She added, In my view, it would be harassment or intimidation.

She also said that Penn would initiate a serious and careful look at our policies.

Both Dr. Gay and Dr. Kornbluth were asked the same series of questions about genocide.

Dr. Gay echoed the idea that it depends on the context whether calling for the genocide of Jews violated Harvards conduct rules.
A Barbie doll in the likeness of Wilma Mankiller, the first woman to be elected chief of the Cherokee Nation, has been hailed by tribal citizens. Its also been lamented for its inaccuracies.

An event held Tuesday in Tahlequah, Okla., marked the anniversary of Ms. Mankiller becoming chief in 1985 and celebrated her Barbie doll. Mattel, the company that produces Barbie dolls, announced the new toy last month as part of the Inspiring Women series that includes the conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall, the journalist Ida B. Wells and the writer Maya Angelou.

The dolls release has been met with some criticism. The doll itself portrays Ms. Mankiller, who died in 2010, with dark hair, wearing a turquoise dress and carrying a basket, a depiction that Chuck Hoskin Jr., principal chief of the Cherokee Nation, said was thoughtful and well done. However, he noted that some in the community said the dolls basket wasnt authentically Cherokee.
Some public school educators in Oakland, Calif., presented pro-Palestinian lessons on Wednesday as part of an unauthorized teach-in.

The school district said this week that it opposed the event, and some Jewish groups and parents condemned it and called for teachers who participated to be disciplined.

The teach-in was organized by a group of activists within the local teachers union, the Oakland Education Association. But the union president, Ismael Armendariz, emphasized that the materials had not been reviewed by his group.

The events anonymous organizers created a lengthy list of suggested curriculum materials for all grade levels, from pre-K through high school. The document calls Israel an apartheid state and refers to the historic and unfolding oppression and genocide of Palestinians.
ARLINGTON, Va. (AP)  The suspect who fired at officers from a duplex in an Arlington, Virginia, neighborhood before the home exploded on Monday night is presumed dead, according to authorities.

Fifty-six-year-old James Yoo was identified by Arlington County Police Chief Andy Penn at a press conference Tuesday as the the owner of the duplex and the individual whose actions brought them to the home after firing a flare-type gun from inside the house more than 30 times. Penn said police responded to the house at about 4:45 p.m. Monday after reports of shots fired. After attempts to communicate with Yoo were unsuccessful, police obtained a search warrant.

As officers tried to enter the home, multiple gunshots were fired from within the house, Penn said. Soon after, the house exploded, Penn said.

The officers escaped serious injury but it was unclear what happened to the suspect who was inside when the building was leveled, Arlington County, Virginia, police spokesperson Ashley Savage said.

Officers went to the home about 4:45 p.m. after receiving reports of shots fired. The preliminary investigation showed that a suspect discharged the flare gun from inside his home, but no property damage or injuries were reported, police said in a statement.

While police investigated, they obtained a search warrant for the home and tried to make contact with the suspect by telephone and loudspeakers, but he remained inside without responding, police said.

Three officers injured

As officers tried to execute the warrant, police said the suspect discharged several rounds from what is believed to be a firearm inside the home and around 8:30 p.m. there was an explosion, shooting flames and debris into the air. An investigation into the circumstances of the explosion is ongoing, police said.

Three officers reported minor injuries in the house explosion, but no one was taken to the hospital. Savage said police dont have any evidence that others were in the duplex but cant rule out the possibility.

On Tuesday, officers wearing ATF jackets combed a nearby street looking through papers scattered in the debris field. Junk mail carrying the name and address of the home that exploded were visible on the street.

The White House was monitoring developments with the house explosion, a spokeswoman said.

Our thoughts are with the police officers that were injured in that explosion, Olivia Dalton, the White House principal deputy press secretary, told reporters on Air Force One on Tuesday. Were grateful to law enforcement that handled that situation very swiftly. I can tell you the ATF is assisting with the local law enforcement investigation into that matter but beyond that I would just refer you to Arlington Police Department.

Carla Rodriguez of South Arlington said she could hear the explosion more than 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) away and came to the scene but police kept onlookers blocks away.

I actually thought a plane exploded, she said.

ATF agents investigating

Bob Maynes thought maybe a tree had fallen on his house when he heard the explosion.

I was sitting in my living room watching television and the whole house shook, Maynes said. It wasnt an earthquake kind of tremor, but the whole house shook.

Arlington is located across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The explosion occurred in Bluemont, a neighborhood in north Arlington where many of the homes are duplexes.

Fire officials do not know the cause of the explosion, said Capt. Nate Hiner, a spokesperson for the Arlington Fire Department.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said federal agents and federal fire investigators were at the scene and assisting in the investigation.

Associated Press reporter Ben Finley contributed from Norfolk and reporter Darlene Superville contributed from Air Force One.
President Biden conceded on Wednesday that he is not the only Democrat who could beat former President Donald J. Trump in next years election, but he made clear that he intends to remain in the race rather than pass the torch to a new generation.

Mr. Bidens re-election campaign appeal to his fellow party members has been predicated on the argument that he is the Democrat best equipped to keep his impeached and indicted predecessor out of the Oval Office. But the president was asked on Wednesday whether he believed any other Democrats could prevail over Mr. Trump.

Probably 50 of them, Mr. Biden said. Im not the only one who could defeat him. But I will defeat him.

The presidents remark came amid widespread doubts about that among Democrats, who worry that his low poll ratings foreshadow an uphill campaign to keep Mr. Trump away from the White House. At a campaign fund-raiser in the Boston area on Tuesday, Mr. Biden said that if Trump wasnt running, Im not sure Id be running, suggesting just how much his predecessor motivated his decision to run again at age 81.
Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, Republican of California, who made history as the first speaker to be ousted from the post, announced on Wednesday that he would leave the House at the end of the year but said he planned to remain engaged in Republican politics.

Mr. McCarthys resignation, which he announced in an opinion essay in The Wall Street Journal, will bring to a close a 16-year stint in Congress in which he rose from a member of the self-proclaimed Young Guns  Republicans driving to build their partys majority in the House  to the position second in line to the presidency.

It caps his spectacular downfall after just under nine months as speaker, when the right-wing forces that he and other establishment Republicans harnessed to power their political victories ultimately rose up and ran him out.

I will continue to recruit our countrys best and brightest to run for elected office, Mr. McCarthy said in announcing his plans in The Journal. The Republican Party is expanding every day, and I am committed to lending my experience to support the next generation of leaders.
Republicans on Wednesday blocked an emergency spending bill to fund the war in Ukraine, demanding strict new border restrictions in exchange and severely jeopardizing President Bidens push to replenish the war chests of American allies before the end of the year.

The failed vote highlighted waning support in the United States for continuing to fund Ukraines war effort at a perilous time in the conflict, with Kyivs counteroffensive failing to meet its objectives and Russias forces on the offensive. While the bill faltered over an unrelated immigration policy dispute, the resistance it has met in Congress reflects a dwindling appetite among Republicans for backing Ukraine, as polls show that Americans are losing interest in providing financial assistance.

In the Senate, the vote to move forward on the bill was 49 to 51, short of the 60-vote threshold needed to advance.

Republicans held ranks against the $111 billion bill, which would provide about $50 billion in security assistance to Ukraine, more for economic and humanitarian aid, and another $14 billion toward arming Israel in its war against Hamas. They voted no despite a series of last-ditch appeals from Democrats and an appeal by Mr. Biden, who said he was prepared to offer significant compromises on the border and scolded them for abandoning Ukraine in its hour of need.
The Justice Department said on Wednesday that it had charged four Russian soldiers with torturing an American living in the war-ravaged region of Kherson in Ukraine, using a war crimes statute for the first time since it was enacted nearly three decades ago.

The indictment, unsealed in Virginia, could be followed by other charges against Russians found to have committed atrocities on the largest scale in any European armed conflict since the Second World War, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland said in announcing the prosecution.

For the first time, Mr. Garland also acknowledged that the department had begun a formal investigation of the murder of more than 30 Americans by Hamas fighters during the Oct. 7 attack in Israel, either under the same war crimes law being used against the Russian soldiers or through the use of antiterrorism statutes. He provided no other details.

All four of those charged now live in Russia. The prospects that they would travel abroad anytime soon, where they could be captured, are remote, officials who joined Mr. Garland at the news conference said.
The authorities in Texas said on Wednesday that a former U.S. Army officer with a history of mental health issues killed his parents in the familys San Antonio-area home before traveling about 80 miles to Austin, where he fatally shot four more people on Tuesday.

The man, identified as Shane M. James, 34, was arrested in Austin after the succession of shootings in the state capital, which also left two police officers wounded. Mr. James was charged with capital murder, with additional charges expected in the coming days.

Investigators in both communities were still working on Wednesday night to determine what touched off the rampage and what if any connection Mr. James had to any of the people killed in Austin.

The first shooting in Austin occurred on Tuesday morning, when an Austin school district officer was shot and wounded, said Robin Henderson, the Austin Police Departments interim chief. The injured officer was struck in the leg and was in stable condition, the school districts police chief, Wayne Sneed, told reporters.
The Supreme Court seemed inclined on Wednesday to allow a female police officer in St. Louis to sue for employment discrimination over a forced lateral transfer to another position in the police department.

A ruling for the officer would open the courthouse doors to more employment discrimination suits, but it was not clear how many.

The justices spent only a few minutes discussing the details of the officers case and focused instead on what plaintiffs subject to involuntary transfers must prove when they accuse employers of violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which forbids discrimination against workers in the terms, conditions or privileges of employment based on, among other things, sex.

Brian Wolfman, a lawyer for the officer, said it was enough to prove that the decision to transfer her had been made for a discriminatory reason, whether or not she had suffered tangible harm as a consequence. The injury is the discrimination itself, he said.
Three people were killed after a gunman opened fire on Wednesday in a building at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, sending students running through plazas and courtyards in the latest scene of gun violence in America.

The gunman died in a shootout with the police, the authorities said. A fourth person who was shot was in stable condition at a hospital.

Sheriff Kevin McMahill of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department said the police knew the gunmans identity but would not release it until later. He did not provide any information about a motive. The shooter was roughly 60 years old, according to a law enforcement official who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

The gunfire erupted shortly before noon inside Frank and Estella Beam Hall, home of the Lee Business School, rattling professors, students and staff members across campus. They quickly moved to huddle in locked classrooms and offices and turned the lights off.
As an unidentified canine respiratory illness continues to pop up in clusters around the United States  causing symptoms like cough, fever and lethargy, and in more serious cases, hospitalization or death  many dog owners are wondering what steps they should take to keep their pets safe.

Despite the alarming headlines about fatalities, veterinarians are urging pet owners to be careful, but not to panic.

At this point in time, I dont think there is reason for extreme alarm, said Dr. Deborah Silverstein, a professor of small animal emergency and critical care medicine at the University of Pennsylvania Ryan Veterinary Hospital. I do think its a time to be cautious and to stay informed.

We talked to Dr. Silverstein and other experts about the strategies they recommend (and in some cases, are using in their own homes) to protect dogs health.
The U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps said on Wednesday that they were grounding their fleets of Ospreys after a preliminary investigation found that a problem with the aircraft may have caused a crash last week off Japan that is believed to have killed all eight airmen aboard.

In a statement, the Air Force cited a potential materiel failure in the crash, though it said the underlying cause of the failure remained unclear. The service said it had grounded its Ospreys to provide time and space for a thorough investigation. The U.S. Naval Air Systems Command, which is responsible for the Marine Corps and Navys versions of the Osprey, said it had followed suit out of an abundance of caution.

The grounding affects nearly 500 military aircraft: The Air Force has 54 Ospreys, the Navy has 48 and the Marine Corps has 360.

Japans defense minister called on the United States last week to stop flying the Osprey in the country until the aircraft was judged safe. While Japan had grounded its own fleet of 14 Ospreys, the United States had continued to fly the aircraft in Japan since the Nov. 29 crash.
An Arizona man has been arrested in the United States in connection with a shooting in rural Australia last year that left two police officers and a bystander dead, the F.B.I. and the police in the Australian state of Queensland said on Wednesday.

The arrest was announced at a joint news conference in Brisbane, Australia, by the two agencies. They did not release the mans name, but a federal indictment that was made public in the United States later on Wednesday charged Donald Day Jr., 58, with two counts of making interstate threats, accusing him of making videos related to the shooting and posting them on YouTube.

At the news conference on Wednesday, an assistant commissioner of the Queensland Police Service, Cheryl Scanlon, described the shooting as a religiously motivated terror attack and said that Australian investigators had been working in the United States on the case.

The indictment said four police officers went to a remote property in the town of Wieambilla, in Queensland, on Dec. 12, 2022, to investigate a report of a missing person. The officers were fired on, it said, and two of them were killed.
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts said Tuesday that the organization has returned 44 works of ancient art following an investigation by the Manhattan District Attorneys Office and the Department of Homeland Security into the global trafficking of looted or stolen antiquities.

VMFA in a statement said it received a summons from Homeland Security and the Manhattan DAs Antiquities Trafficking Unit about 28 ancient art objects in the museums collection that had been identified as possibly looted or stolen.

The museum was asked to supply all documents and photographs related to sales receipts, invoices and bills of sale, and a variety of records and any correspondence related to the 28 objects.

VMFA complied with the requests and, based on the evidence the museum supplied, another 29 works were determined to be stolen. The museum added information on another four works.

In October, Col. Matthew Bogdanos from the Manhattan District Attorneys Office, and Robert Mancene, from Homeland Security Investigations, presented the museum with evidence that 44 of the 61 works under investigation were stolen or looted and should be repatriated to their countries of origin: Italy, Egypt or Turkey.

These works include a bronze Etruscan warrior that was stolen from Room VIII of the Museo Civico Archeologico in Bologna, Italy, in 1963.

The other 43 works were looted from sites in Italy, Egypt and Turkey as part of an international criminal conspiracy involving antiquities traffickers, smugglers and art dealers.

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts returns any works in its collection that are discovered to be unlawfully held. The museum takes seriously, and responds to, all restitution claims for works in our collection, VMFAs Director and CEO Alex Nyerges said. This is not just our policy. It is the right thing to do. We fully support the decision to repatriate these 44 works of ancient art.

The clear and compelling evidence presented to VMFA left no doubt that the museum does not hold clear title for these 44 works of ancient art, said VMFA Chief Curator and Deputy Director for Art and Education Michael R. Taylor.

Stolen or looted art has no place in our galleries or collection, so we are delighted to return these works to their countries of origin. The museum has safely delivered the 44 objects to the Manhattan District Attorneys Office, which will facilitate the return of these objects to Italy, Egypt and Turkey, Taylor said.

The museums release said there no evidence uncovered that linked current employees with any criminal activity related VMFAs acquisition of these antiquities, which occurred for the most part in the 1970s, 1980s and early 1990s.
A former Ukrainian lawmaker who had settled in Russia and was sentenced in Ukraine for treason, was shot and killed in a village outside Moscow, Russian investigators said on Wednesday.

The lawmaker, Illia Kyva, 46, who had called for Ukraine to surrender when Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, was discovered in the park of a gated community 25 miles west of Moscow, Russian investigators said in a statement. They said that Mr. Kyva died on the spot after being shot at by an unknown individual, and that the authorities were opening a criminal inquiry into the killing.

Russian investigators made no mention of the potential Ukrainian involvement, but a Ukrainian intelligence official, speaking on the condition of anonymity for security reasons, said that Mr. Kyva was killed as part of a special operation orchestrated by the State Security Service of Ukraine.

The criminal was eliminated with small arms, the official said.

Andriy Yusov, a spokesman for Ukraines military intelligence, said on the countrys national television that Mr. Kyva was done and that such a fate will befall other traitors of Ukraine, as well as the henchmen of the Putin regime.
His plane flanked by four fighter jets, President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia began a rare trip on Wednesday to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, two oil-rich Gulf nations that have resisted pressure to take sides in the Ukraine war.

The talks touched on international crises, primarily Israels two-month-old war with Hamas  a conflict that has played into Mr. Putins geopolitical aims by distracting Western leaders from the war in Ukraine.

The Emirati president, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, called Mr. Putin his dear friend at the start of their talks, and after Mr. Putin arrived in Saudi Arabia, the kingdoms crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, called him a very dear guest for the kingdom.

We have great opportunities in front of us in the future, Prince Mohammed told the Russian leader in a video released by the Saudi government.
One of the most delightful decisions I made this year was to declare a summer of snob. For a few gloriously hot and sunny months, my fiction (and sometimes nonfiction) reading was loosely organized around the theme of snobbery. Loopy heiresses, high-society murders and class anxiety galore populated my reading list, giving just enough of a thematic through line to provide interesting comparisons without becoming repetitive or boring.

So Im going to do something similar this winter, and pick up a murder-mystery theme for the next month or two. Its a genre that I find psychologically comforting, because murder mysteries exist in ordered, if violent universes: Bad people do bad things in them, but they dont get away with it. That makes for a pleasant departure from our far-less-tidy reality.

I suppose I really embarked upon this theme a few weeks ago. Ive been watching A Murder At the End of the World, a miniseries from Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij that seems like what youd get if you cross-pollinated Glass Onion with The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. Its essentially a country-house murder mystery updated for the A.I. era, but so far its not quite cozy enough for me. (Too many glossy billionaires, too few goofy eccentrics.) Still, Ill watch the final two installments to see where its all going  the foreshadowing that All Is Not As It Seems has been so heavy that I will be amused if the big twist turns out to be that it was petty, low-tech human jealousy all along.

On the other hand, The Appeal, by Janice Hallett, which is set in an English villages amateur theater troupe, is as cozy as they come. And its Christmas-themed sequel, described as a festive murder mystery, sounds like it dials the cozy factor up to 11. Its on my list.
Regretful but unruffled, Boris Johnson acknowledged on Wednesday that as Britains prime minister during the pandemic, he had underestimated the emerging threat of the coronavirus in early 2020. But he rejected suggestions that his governments initially sluggish response had driven up Britains death toll.

Speaking before an official inquiry into the governments handling of the crisis, Mr. Johnson apologized for the pain and suffering and the loss of those who died from Covid, and of their families. He said the families deserved answers, as he submitted to two days of grilling about his leadership and judgment during those frantic days.

There are clearly things that we could have done, and should have done, if wed known and understood how this was spreading, Mr. Johnson said. We collectively should have twigged much sooner to the rapidly looming danger posed by the virus, he added. I should have twigged.

Still, Mr. Johnson said he was doubtful that acting earlier would have made a big difference. He sparred with the committees chief counsel, Hugo Keith, over whether Britains death toll, currently at 230,193, placed it among the worst-hit European countries, or merely in the middle. (Britains per capita death rate is higher than that of France or Germany, and only marginally lower than that of Italy, the European country most ravaged in the first wave of infections.)
Faced with fierce fighting in the south of Gaza, large numbers of civilians have fled to a tiny seaside village where Israel has said they can find safety. Its name is Al-Mawasi  and once there, Gazans have found no shelter, no humanitarian aid and little in the way even of basic infrastructure.

Yousef Hammash, an employee of the Norwegian Refugee Council, was among those who went to the village. He and his family had been in Khan Younis, where intense urban combat has raged in recent days. When they arrived, he said, they found little more than a barren open-air area where people were struggling to build makeshift shelters.

Hundreds of thousands of people from Khan Younis have fled to Al-Mawasi and Rafah, Mr. Hammash said, referring to the nearby town on the border of Egypt. It turned from an empty land into a very, very crowded area.

The exact number of people who have moved in recent days could not be confirmed, but on Sunday, Israel called for the evacuation of roughly 20 percent of Khan Youniss land area, home to more than 620,000 people, according to the United Nations.
As the afternoon light softened, a man holding a megaphone stepped to the front of a crowd of about 200 people in the Bahraini capital, Manama, and began to shout at the top of his lungs.

The demonstrators, waving Palestinian flags, repeated his words with gusto, imploring their American-allied authoritarian government to expel the Israeli ambassador who was appointed two years ago, after Bahrain established diplomatic ties with Israel.

No Zionist embassy on Bahraini land! they chanted. No American military bases on Bahraini land!

Less than four miles away, American and European men in full military regalia gathered for the Manama Dialogue, an annual conference that brings together senior officials from Western powers and the Middle East to discuss regional security. They milled about a gilded ballroom in the heavily guarded Ritz-Carlton hotel just hours after the protest  largely unaware that it had even occurred.

When Bahrains crown prince, Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, took to the stage, he pleased much of the audience by condemning Hamas, the Palestinian armed group that runs Gaza and which led the Oct. 7 attack on Israel that killed about 1,200 people, according to Israeli authorities.
Time is running out for the hostages.

That is the message both those released from captivity in the Gaza Strip and their families have been giving to Israeli leaders with growing urgency in the days after the cease-fire with Hamas expired and a stream of hostages stopped returning home.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and others in the Israeli war cabinet met with families of those being held by Hamas, which abducted some 240 people when it attacked Israel on Oct. 7. They were joined by some of the freed hostages. The meeting was contentious.

Afterward, the families released an account that included what they described as direct quotes from the freed hostages about conditions of those still in captivity.

They dont have another second, their lives are in danger there in the Hamas tunnels, one said.

They touch our girls, said another.

They shaved off all of dads body hair to humiliate him, said a third.

The war cabinet members  including the current defense minister, Yoav Gallant, and a former defense minister, Benny Gantz  took questions, but the families clearly found their answers unsatisfying.

A day later, some were expressing anguish.

We want our family back home, Idit Ohel, whose 22-year-old son, Alon, is a hostage, said Wednesday. So can I tell you if I know better than the I.D.F.? I dont know.
The Israeli offensive in the southern Gaza Strip has set off another mass displacement, as tens of thousands of distressed people flee to areas west and south of the main southern city, only to find shelters packed beyond capacity and a lack of basic necessities like food, medicine and water, aid agencies and the United Nations said on Wednesday.

Humanitarian conditions in southern Gaza have grown increasingly dire as Israeli troops and Hamas fighters battle for control of Khan Younis, the regions largest city. Having told Palestinian civilians since October to evacuate all of northern Gaza, the Israeli military is again urging them to move away from the fighting and into shrinking patches of land.

Israel has instructed people in an area that includes part of Khan Younis to leave for the southern border city of Rafah, already overcrowded with displaced people, or Al-Mawasi, an agricultural area near the Mediterranean Sea. But Gazans have seen deadly Israeli airstrikes in areas they were told would be safer, and aid groups say that Al-Mawasi, in particular, does not have the infrastructure necessary to ease the crisis.

Both sides reported intense gun battles in Khan Younis, as well as continued air and artillery strikes  some of the heaviest combat in two months of war. An Israeli military spokesman, Lt. Col. Avichay Adraee, on Wednesday warned civilians not to approach Salah al-Din Road, the main route connecting the city to northern Gaza, calling it a battlefield and extremely dangerous.

But with most of Gazas 2.2 million people displaced from their homes, and electricity and internet access in short supply, it is not clear how many of them can receive such messages.
The Israeli military has released a photo of 11 senior Hamas military leaders gathered in a tunnel beneath Gaza and said that five of them had been killed.

Among those in the annotated photo the army said it had eliminated were the head of Hamass aerial division, two battalion commanders, a brigade commander and a deputy brigade commander.

The rare photo of the Hamas leaders released on Tuesday, the Israeli military said, was taken while the group hid in a tunnel underneath a residential neighborhood near the Indonesian hospital in the northern Gaza city of Beit Lahia.

An Israeli intelligence unit analyzed the picture after it was seized in Gaza but did not reveal who took it. Some of the photographs details, including its exact date and location, could not be independently verified.
Jason Shawa Samar Abu Elouf for The New York Times Hatem Ali/Associated Press Yousef Masoud for The New York Times Samar Abu Elouf for The New York Times Samar Abu Elouf for The New York Times We sleep fearing we might be dead 60 days in Gaza In a tiny strip of land where more than two million people are trapped, death can feel imminent. This is life in the Gaza Strip. Israeli airstrikes, which have resumed after a brief truce, can come at any time. They could hit anywhere. Food and water remain scarce. More than 16,000 people have been killed in the Hamas-run territory, according to the health ministry. Half the buildings in the north have been damaged or destroyed. Damaged buildings as of Nov. 22, according to satellite analysis Houses are flattened. Mosques are destroyed. Entire neighborhoods are unrecognizable. Israel says civilian casualties are inevitable because Hamas embeds within Gazas population. The war began after Hamas rampaged across southern Israel on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people, by Israeli estimates. No Place to Go In the weeks after Israel ordered civilians to evacuate to the south, it continued to strike there too. Sondos Badawi and her family heeded the order to flee, leaving their home in Gaza City to stay with friends south of the evacuated area. But airstrikes followed them, pounding the neighborhood they were staying in. So they returned home. Two days later, bombs began crashing into their own neighborhood. They ran out, barefoot and bloodied, before their own home collapsed, seeking help at a nearby hospital. When the hospital was ordered to evacuate, they made their way back south.



There is no safe place, Ms. Badawi said. Now, the next phase of Israels offensive against Hamas is focused on the south, where most of Gazas population has fled. Israel has told many civilians there to move again.



You dont know where to go, said Abu Yousef, 42, whose family moved for a third time on Saturday night. Days without water Parents skip meals so their children can eat. Taps have run dry. U.N. shelters are so crowded that there is a single toilet for every 160 people. Before the war, some 500 trucks with essential supplies came into Gaza every day, many from Egypt via the Rafah crossing. Far fewer have made it across since the bombardment began, even during the ceasefire. The trucks slowed to a trickle once the fighting resumed. Searching for a Doctor The World Health Organization said last month that none of Gazas hospitals were functional enough to treat critical trauma cases or perform surgery anymore. Hospitals functioning before Oct. 7 Many closed after they were hit by airstrikes, ran out of fuel or were surrounded by Israeli troops. Some of those that managed to remain open are too overwhelmed to admit new patients. Hospitals functioning before Oct. 7 In the first days of the airstrikes, Talaat Oudahs kidneys began to fail. He tried Al-Quds Hospital, but it had no room. He tried Al-Shifa, but was also turned away. Two days later, he was dead. Weeks later, there was even less space. One by one, generators shut down, supplies ran out and hospitals had to close their doors. Bombs continued to rain down, but now patients with burns, shattered limbs or severe head trauma had nowhere to go. After a strike in northern Gaza sent shrapnel into her abdomen, one woman sought treatment at a hospital near her home. Services there had collapsed, so clutching a towel to her wounds, she began the more than seven-mile journey to southern Gaza, according to a U.N. report. But hospitals in the south, too, are turning patients away. Some of those who do get in are treated on the floor. And with no space and few medical supplies, many are discharged quickly  while still healing  into neighborhoods in ruins.

During the cease-fire, more medical supplies and other aid made it into Gaza, and some hospitals were able to resume some treatments, like dialysis. For the first time in seven weeks, patients with traumatic injuries were not arriving at emergency rooms in waves after airstrikes.

Gazans were able to go out to stock up on essentials, though long lines remained and goods were in short supply. Some returned to their homes to see if they were still intact, check on relatives left behind or bury the dead.

On Friday, the cease-fire fell apart and Israel resumed airstrikes across Gaza.

Our feeling of safety, even for a moment, is over, said Yousef Hammash, an advocacy officer for the Norwegian Refugee Council in Gaza. I dont know whats waiting for us now. It seems we are going to hell again.
Members of the Corvallis Jewish and Palestinian Solidarity communities thronged the lobby and meeting room of the downtown fire station for a tense, nearly hourlong public comment segment in support  and opposition  of a proposed resolution in support of Palestine.

No resolution was, as yet, before the council.

A Place to Sleep, episode 8: Portland Portland is not unlike cities in the mid-Willamette Valley in that it spends a lot of time defining when and where homeless people can't sleep rather than where they can.

Mayor Charles Maughan clarified to community members present both physically and online that the City Council would not be voting on a resolution at the Monday, Dec. 4 meeting.

The resolution affirming support and solidarity with the Palestinian people is a two-page document put together by the Corvallis Palestine Solidarity.

Prior to the Dec. 4 meeting, the group had been seeking signatures in support of the resolution, which it planned to submit to city leaders at the meeting.

One of the groups organizers, Valori George, said that as of Friday, Dec. 1, more than 600 signatures had been gathered in support of the resolution, which was first brought forward to a city council in Richmond, California.

According to George, the group adopted the resolution from Richmond and made some amendments.

A lot of cities would probably pass a generic ceasefire resolution, but thats just stopping the bleeding. Thats not addressing whats going on and the fact that every year, we as taxpayers are funding this, George said.

Ahead of the meeting, George speculated response to the resolution would be a mixed bag.

It was. Despite the announcement that there was no resolution before the council, community members, religious leaders and college students, among others, addressed the council, either urging adoption of the resolution or for it not to be considered in the near future or ever.

Some raised concerns about the language of the resolution and misinformation, as well as the questionable impact of a city-level resolution on global events.

I know that advocates for Palestine solidarity here dont mean to do us direct harm. I wish they knew the impact that their words have, Rabbi Philip Bressler of Beit Am said in his address to the council and community members.

Bressler called the language of the resolution inflammatory and said it was written in the highest possible register of moral condemnation, which only serves to rile up people.

And weve learned in the lessons of our history is that when people get angry and upset with Jews, were soon in real danger, Bressler said.

Other Jewish community members who spoke raised concerns about the resolution in context of rising antisemitism across the country since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack and subsequent retaliation by Israel.

Rachel Peck, Beit Ams head of security, called the resolution a waste of city governments time, adding that the council and city leadership did not have a say in federal governments tax spending.

We are very fortunate that here in Corvallis, we have not, as yet, seen the violence experienced in other parts of the country, Peck said. As someone responsible for the security of Beit Am, I am very motivated to avoid even the possibility of similar occurrences here.

Peg Elefant, national vice president at Hadassah, said the resolution has the potential to negatively impact the Corvallis residents as well as Jewish college students, families with children, schools, for a long time.

Elefant said she wanted to preserve the sense of comfort and peace that shes felt living in Corvallis for more than 46 years.

Beth Green, who concluded the public comment segment, said as a Jew, shed always felt safe in Corvallis because of its culture of compassionate understanding for everyone.

This resolution is very one-sided, Green said. If we are going to call for anything, it has to be true to the values we believe in, which is compassion for all, she said, stressing that it is indeed a local issue.

Proponents of the resolution argued that passing the resolution was in line with the support the city showed the people of Ukraine when it passed a resolution in support of the people of Ukraine and Corvallis sister city Uzhhorod in February 2022.

The city of Corvallis had no problem standing in solidarity with the Ukrainian community, and rightfully so, said Azeem Hussaini, a Salem-based lawyer and former Oregon State student.

The complicating geopolitical circumstances in that region had no bearing on the citys decision, nor should it have, and it should have no bearing in this case, Hussaini said in his address to council, adding that passing the resolution was about justice.

Heba Bader, a freshman at Oregon State University who told council her family fled Palestine during the 1948 Nakba, said her support of the resolution stemmed from this history. She said it was important to refute the notion that desire for Palestinian liberation was antisemitic.

You can have a Jewish state, but the way in which you build it cannot be on the blood of Palestinians. You cannot build a holy land with the blood of children underneath it, Bader said in her address.

In the lobby, boos and applause followed each commenter, and, on a few occasions, interactions devolved into heated exchanges among attendees, involving some cussing.

After public comments closed, one supporter of the resolution moved from the lobby into the meeting room, holding up a sign and chanting a protest refrain that delayed the rest of the meeting by several minutes.

According to the Associated Press, similar resolutions in support of Palestine have passed in Detroit, Atlanta, Oakland, California, Akron, Ohio, Wilmington, Delaware, and Providence, Rhode Island.

But according to David Glazier, who teaches constitutional law at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles, U.S. cities have no legal role or formal say in the conflict resolution process as the Israel-Hamas war unfolds.

City councils have become the latest arena where intense, and sometimes violent, debates regarding the war and the United States support for Israel are playing out.

Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help Support local news coverage and the people who report it by becoming a subscriber today.

The war, which started after Hamas broke through Israels high-tech Iron Wall on Oct. 7 and launched an attack that left more than 1,200 Israelis dead, has resumed in southern Gaza after the end of a weeklong ceasefire mediated by Qatar along with Egypt.

During the ceasefire, more than 100 of the 240 hostages captured by Hamas were released and allowed increased aid to enter into Palestine.
What to Expect in Iowa
2024 Republican

Presidential Primary Calendar

The 2024 primary season will officially begin in mid-January and last through June. To secure the nomination, candidates will need to amass the support of party delegates by winning or performing well in each states primary or caucus.

Cumulative delegate totals by primary election date Feb. March April May June 400 1,000 1,500 2,000 Jan. 15

Iowa caucus March 5, Super Tuesday

15 states and one territory will select more than a third of all delegates June 4

2,429 delegates July 15

Republican National Convention Feb. March April May June 400 1,000 1,500 2,000 Jan. 15

Iowa caucus March 5, Super Tuesday

15 states and one territory will select more than a third of all delegates June 4

2,429 delegates July 15

Republican National Convention Feb. March April May June 400 1,000 1,500 2,000 Jan. 15

Iowa caucus March 5, Super Tuesday

15 states and one territory will select more than a third of all delegates June 4

2,429 delegates July 15

Republican National Convention Feb. March April May June 400 1,000 1,500 2,000 Jan. 15

Iowa caucus March 5, Super Tuesday

15 states and one territory will select more than a third of all delegates June 4

2,429 delegates July 15

Republican National Convention Feb. March April May June 400 1,000 1,500 2,000 Jan. 15

Iowa caucus March 5, Super Tuesday

15 states and one territory will select more than a third of all delegates June 4

2,429 delegates July 15

Republican National Convention

Whichever candidate wins the backing of a majority of delegates will become the presumptive nominee and will be formally chosen at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee July 15-18.

Although primary contests will last for nearly six months, more than 70 percent of all delegates will be allocated by the end of March. This means most voters will go to the polls not knowing the outcome of a federal trial that charges former President Donald J. Trump with conspiring to overthrow the results of the 2020 election. The trial of Mr. Trump, the front-runner for the Republican nomination, is scheduled to start March 4, one day before Super Tuesday, the largest single day of the primary season.

States may still change their election rules or dates. This calendar will be updated regularly.
A former Chinese whizkid who entered university at the age of 10 and was already a PhD candidate in Applied Mathematics at 16, spends his days doing nothing and relies on his parents for money.

Zhang Xinyang had always been destined for greatness. At just two and a half years old, he learned over a thousand Chinese characters within three months, and by age four, he was already in primary school. Born into a modest family, Zhang benefitted from his fathers tutelage and managed to skip several grades. At age six, he was already in fifth grade, and by age nine, he was enrolled in the third grade of high school. When he was ten years old, Zhang Xinyang became Chinas youngest university student, getting accepted at the Tianjin University of Technology and Education. His genius surprised everyone, but as he grew, his attitude started to change

At the age of 13, Zhang began a Masters program in Beijing, and while most other 16-year-olds were pondering what university to apply to, Zhang Xinyang was already pursuing a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics and doing interviews with major news outlets. However, the media coverage wasnt as positive as it used to be. Just a month into his stint at the Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics (BUAA) as a Ph.D. student, the prodigy made news headlines for giving his parents an ultimatum  either they bought him a Beijing apartment, or he quit his studies.

My parents want me to stay in Beijing. Yet, if I did not have my own house here, I would be like those Beijing drifters. If I am like them, why then do my parents want me to get a Doctoral degree?  young Zhang said in a TV interview, adding that his parents should take the responsibility of providing me with a good living environment.

Zhang Xinyangs parents had always struggled to keep him in school, and his request was virtually impossible to fulfill. Still, they couldnt bear the thought of him abandoning his studies when he had already achieved so much, so they rented a Beijing apartment and lied that they had bought it. Zhangs father had also been a gifted child and he could have been in the first generation of students in the MBA program at Renmin University, but his family couldnt afford to tutor him. Now he hoped his son would achieve everything he couldnt and more.

At the time, Zhang Xinyangs attitude was criticized by the public, but that didnt seem to affect him. If anything, he doubled down on his statements, claiming that he wasnt the one driving them crazy, that they were doing it to themselves.

My parents gave birth to me and imposed their dream on me, hoping that one day I would achieve what they wanted to gain in the past, the 16-year-old said. They planned my life for me, trying to make me think that what they were leading me to do was what I wanted to do.

Zhangs parents sometimes expressed regret for maybe pushing him too hard, but they hoped that his success would justify their actions. However, things didnt play out the way they hoped

Today, at 28 years old, Zhang Xinyang isnt the man most expected him to become. He still lives in the Beijing apartment rented for him years ago and for which they continue to cover rent, but he has no job and spends most of his time sitting around doing nothing. He believes this simple way of life is the true expression of happiness and he is content with relying on his parents and the odd freelance job to support himself.

They owe me this, Zhang recently said about his parents. The apartment they never bought me should be worth over 10 million yuan ($1.4 million) now.

Zhang Xinyangs story has divided the Chinese internet. Some criticize him for his arrogance and lack of respect for his parents, while others cite his case as a cautionary tale for parents who push their children too much when they should just let them enjoy their childhood years. Zhang Xinyangs undergraduate teacher told reporters that he still has time to achieve great things if he puts his mind to it, but he has no intention of doing any work.

There is no financial freedom when working for someone else, thats a joke. At least now I dont need to deal with the attitudes of others, the 28-year-old said.
Elie Azzi

Edelman is bringing on Elie Azzi as general manager for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, effective in January. Azzi joins the firm from Ogilvy, where he served as head of public relations in Riyadh and before that in Beirut. He has also held senior positions with Havas and Porter Novelli. Azzi brings a track record in government advisory, leadership, and team building to the firm. Edelman KSA has also hired Sarah Alarrak, who most recently worked at KSAs Ministry of Sport, to work on growing Edelmans client base in KSA. Alarrak has also held positions at the G20 Saudi Secretariat, where she managed the woman and youth agenda; and the University of Chicago, based in Riyadh, developing the communications strategy for the KSA market. In Elie and Sarah, we have well connected, experienced and accomplished communications professionals, said Edelman EMEA CEO AJ Hesselink.

Miranda Hunter

Fidelis Insurance Holdings Limited appoints Miranda Hunter as head of investor relations. Hunter most recently served as head of investor relations at AXIS Capital Holdings Limited. She was previously VP of operations and strategic development at Aeolus Capital Management Ltd. and VP, head of investor relations at Validus Group. In her new role, Hunter will be responsible for leading Fidelis Insurance Groups engagement with the investment community, reporting to Fidelis Insurance Group CEO Dan Burrows. Mirandas wealth of experience in the (re)insurance and financial industries, coupled with her proven track record in investor relations, uniquely positions her to play a pivotal role in articulating Fidelis Insurance Groups strategy and narrative to the investment community, said Burrows.

Richard Mcleod

HanesBrands hires Richard Mcleod as VP, chief marketing officer for its Champion athletic apparel brand. Mcleod joins Champion from Canada Goose, where he was SVP of brand, responsible for brand evolution, growth and performance. He has also held senior marketing positions at Foot Locker, LVMH and Pernod Ricard. At Champion, Mcleod will be responsible for driving Champions global brand strategy and omni-channel brand positioning. We are excited to tap into Richards extensive experience in global brand management, knowledgeable insights around our core consumers, and dynamic leadership style, said HanesBrands president of global activewear Vanessa LeFebvre.
This week's racing included a congratulatory clap on the back for a year of top class racing with the running of the RCE Winter Racing Festival. It was a celebration of a fantastic year's racing with the cream of the country's best dogs battling for some serious loot with over 150k on offer in prize money across Friday and Saturday. The quality dogs of 2023 had a further opportunity to amass more money to add to their 2023 winning prize money. However, there were some shocks, as well as cream coming to the top once again, with all the top trainers walking away with some serious prize money for their very loyal owners. Locally there were some quality Offaly winners to add to another super week of Greyhound racing.



Early week racing



Thursday, Enniscorthy, final of the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust Novice Open unraced stake, the 900 first prize went to the odds on 1/3 fav Kit Man (Droopys Sydney-Palermo) for Waterford trainer Peter Cronin in 29.22 (20 slow) winning by one length.



First Offaly winner of the week was in Shelbourne on the same night as Highview Treat won an A1 race in 28.89 by three lengths at 3/1 for Croghan trainer Gerry Merriman.



Friday racing



Galway, final of the Paul McKenna Memorial A5 stake, David Flanagan supplied the winner here of the 1.2k first prize as Sober Mags (Dorotas Wildcat-Mags Angel) won in 28.98 (10 slow) by five lengths at 6/4.



The first night of the Winter Racing Festival in Shelbourne was on Friday with eight races worth 2k and five worth 2.5k to the winners on a top class card. While most of the big hitters were on the Saturday card there was some great racing on this card. Unfortunately no Offaly winners, however, a few went close. Two winners that stood out were in the final of the AO 525 Kapuka Warrior (Good News-Rural Intentions) won one of the 2.5k pots for Karol Ramsbottom in 28.33 by one length at 5/1. In the final of an A4 sweepstake Jaxx Vivienne (Sparta Maestro-Boreen Magic) won the 2k purse for Beatrice Steiner in 28.90 by two lengths at 11/2.



Saturday racing



Only Offaly winner was in Limerick, in an A8 race, Cagey Billy won for Birr owners Bill Pardy and Christopher Fitzgerald in 29.17 by eleven lengths at a well backed 4/6 fav with Christopher Delaney training. No flag raised for any Offaly dog in Mullingar on Saturday which was a rarity.



A huge crowd turned up in Shelbourne to witness the cream of Irish dogs, and a few UK raiders, running in a twelve race program with impressive purses- five races worth 5k to the winners, six worth 10k and one at 12.5k. In the past all these top dogs would have been put away for a winter rest. However with prize money like this on offer most are kept in training and what a show they put on.



Highlights



Open Sprint and 5k went to Ballinakill Alf for champion trainer Graham Holland in 18.49 by one length. Open 850 was a complete shock winner as Highjay Muzzy won the 5k pot in 47.63 by two lengths for Stephen Maher and Jason Meredith at a whopping 40/1. The Open 525 and 10k went to High Trend for Holland again in 28.16 by three lengths. Champion bitch 525 went to Droopys Mandolin in 28.15 by two lengths at 8/11 fav fresh from winning the Galway Oaks last week and another 10k to Robert Gleeson. The open 550 which was like a line up for the Derby final witnessed Another Holiday for Michael ODonovan winning the 10k, in 29.48 by one length, at a decent 12/1 with Offaly dog Trinity Junior in second for Edenderry owner Timmy Slevin. Bens Teddy won the open 600 in 31.92 for Pat Buckley with the Open 575 going to Music Glideaway for Pat Guilfoyle in 30.69 with 10k going to both winners.



The race with the most valuable purse of 12.5k to the winner was the final of the IGOBF National Puppy Stakes. The winner ran a blinder and remained unbeaten in this very competitive stake as Whyate Bonnylad (Ballymac Cashout-Drumalee Premier) stopped the clock in 28.15 by two lengths at 15/8 with Gleeson at the helm again. Dunnanelly Fred was second for Northern Ireland trainer Damian Macginn and received a purse of 3k.



It was once again another super Winter Racing Festival and congratulations to all winners but especially those who organised it, sponsored races and trainers who supplied the best dogs their kennels. Festivals like this have been tried many times in the UK but all have been a pale replica of what Shelbourne Park can put on. Big congratulations for a great night's racing.



Sunday Racing



Sadly Sunday's racing had no Offaly winner at the matinee meeting in Mullingar.



Tribune Offaly dog of the week



Although not a winner, Trinity Junior get the nod for finishing second in the most difficult of races the Open 550 yard races in Shelbourne on Saturday at the Winter Racing Festival. He was only beaten by one length in a fantastic time of 29.48 for Timmy Slevin.



Offaly Winners



Just two Offaly winners this week. Congratulations to all involved.
Shop local, eat local, spend local, enjoy local.

That's the message to consumers in a shop local campaign by the Tribune and our sister online platform, offalylive.ie in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

Shopping locally as far as possible this festive season will help secure jobs and economic growth in our towns and villages.

The logo of a bread company in Tullamore sums up the shop local message very well - use your loaf and keep the dough in town.

Local retail outlets and businesses can supply virtually all people's needs, particularly foodstuffs and gifts, this Christmas.

Consumers are blessed with a great array of choice at local outlets where there is an emphasis on quality and price.

Offaly County Council is also supporting local businesses in a campaign run in partnership with Tullamore and District Chamber of Commerce.

Said Chamber President, Anthony Hanniffy: "There is a very clear message that Tullamore is open for business. We have seen many improvements in our town after the past difficult few years and I would like to encourage everyone to think local this Christmas."

Added Mr Hanniffy: "Our Christmas vouchers are the perfect gift and are accepted in many businesses throughout the town and I would encourage people who perhaps are unsure of buying a present for a loved to consider buying a Tullamore Quids voucher."

Tullamore Municipal District has also relaxed car parking charges for the entire month of December in a bid to encourage more people to shop in the county town in the coming weeks.

Stay local, shop local and click local, urged the council in a statement this week. Even in extraordinary times, we can all make a difference, it added.

Shopping local is not only important for our communities but it also aids the national economy as local retailers tend to support Irish goods.

Those of us involved in community and sporting organisations are only too grateful for the support received from local businesses throughout the year. The lead up to Christmas  the busiest time for most local retailers  is the perfect opportunity for people to return their support to local business.

In tandem with the shop local message consumers are also being encouraged to support Irish made goods and produce where possible,

Most consumers are anxious to buy Irish produce because of its reputation for quality and their desire to support Irish farmers and workers.

But consumers good intentions can be exploited through misleading labelling and unsustainable discounting.

Consumers should realise that the only labels they should trust to signify Irish origin, when buying meat and other produce, are The Bord Bia Quality Mark, Origin Ireland and the National Dairy Council Guarantee.

In the past consumers have been misled through the use of tricolour images boasting "produced in Ireland" or "processed in Ireland" on non-Irish food.

In past years the Irish Farmers Association also identified the practice of using fake farm and creamery brand names to mask non-Irish product and displaying Irish product next to identically packed non-Irish product.

Playing with perceptions is designed to mislead consumers. It denies them the opportunity to make informed choices and gives the impression the retailer cares about local suppliers when in reality there is no guarantee their suppliers are being paid a fair price.

So, keeping all these factors in mind, in the remaining two and a half weeks to Christmas Day please heed the message shop local, eat local, spend local, enjoy local.
The story of Tullamore's famous Irish whiskey liqueur, Irish Mist, is charted in a major new history which was launched on Friday night last.

Irish Mist: The Story of Tullamores Whiskey Liqueur 19451985, Irelands Legendary Liqueur and the people who made it, was edited by local historian, Michael Byrne, and John Flanagan, who worked in Irish Mist for almost three decades.

A large number of other contributors also penned chapters in the book which was launched by Ferbane native, Seamus Dooley, Irish Secretary of the National Union of Journalists, at a function in Offaly History Centre.

The book, which sells for 19.99 is attractively printed and features many photographs which will bring back poignant memories for former employees, their families and the wider communities.

Many former Williams' employees made the journey to the Offaly county town for the launch which was also fortunate enough to have some bottles of Irish Mist on hand for the guests to sample after the conclusion of formalities.

Launching the book, Seamus Dooley, said Irish Mist was not just a triumph of distilling, it was recognised as an example of the importance of good design, strategic marketing and attention to detail.

So too is this book and I want to pay tribute to all involved in what I think is a very important initiative, he stressed.

Added Mr Dooley: All too often the history of successful companies tends to be dry and dusty, focusing on facts and figures but devoid of personality. Michael and John have managed to capture the essence, may say the spirit, of Irish Mist, the personality of those who brought Irelands first whiskey based liqueur and all those who helped to make Desmond Williams dream a reality.

Irish Mist may include secret ingredients but the key ingredient in this book is passion. The passion of the authors and contributors is obvious, but so too is the passion of the Williams family, of Bill Jaffray and of everyone involved at every level within the company.

Desmonds artistic and literary links were of course key ingredients in the success of Irish Mist said the speaker, explainingg: He developed a carefully cultivated image, using extravagant bright colours and distinctive packaging chosen by Louis Le Brocquy. What an inspired choice that proved to be. Desmond also deployed his father in law in the promotion of his new product. He had married Brenda, daughter of Oliver St John Gogarty.

He continued;' I note from this book that Anne Williams made no mistake when she encountered Telly Savalas and his mother and introduced him to the joys of Irish Mist..

Mr Dooley also referred to the legendary Costello's bar in New York, a favourite of literary greats, which was established by Ferbane native, Tim Costello.

The story of Irish Mist, noted Mr Dooley, is as intriguing as the legendary liqueur, a tale interwoven with the social, cultural and economic life of Tullamore in the Sixties, Seventies and Eighties. Offay History, Offaly County Council and Creative Ireland deserve credit for this initiative in celebrating the history of Irish Mist. History is not of course just about the captains and the kings and while it is appropriate to salute the Williams family, and Desmond in particular, this book rightly examines the role of the workforce, the importance of Irish Mist to Tullamore and to the life of the community. This could well be a useful template for other companies and organisations in the public and private sector in the Midlands, not least Bord na Mona and the ESB.

Mr Dooley said he was struck in reading the book by the impact of the Williams Group not just on the economy but on the social and community life of Tullamore. The social capital evident in the Tullamore Credit Union, the Musical Society, in sports, arts and culture  the very existence of a loyal employer of that scale allowed people to live, work and contribute to the community.

Co-editor Michael Byrne pointed out that Irish Mist Liqueur brought the Tullamore name to every corner of the world and was a unique development in Ireland and a world leader in its class in the 1960s and 1970s. Great ideas and design were used to bring this about. Marketeers and design people for the Irish Mist product from Le Brocquy to the staff member on the floor  all had a role in ensuring quality. The Irish Mist Liqueur Company was led from 1945 to 1970 by Desmond Williams, ably assisted by William G. (Bill) Jaffray. Bill Jaffray led from 1970 until the sale of Irish Mist Liqueur to Cantrell & Cochrane (C&C) in 1985.

This is the story of how Desmond Williams saw the opportunity to transform the Irish whiskey industry and to bring it to American and European markets in new blended formats, using clever and innovative ideas and marketing, while all the while insistent on the highest quality. The work that Williams did for Irish whiskey and Irish Mist in the United States, the main market was to bear fruit from the 1990s with the stunning revival of the Irish whiskey industry. The Irish Mist company employed up to 80 people in the late 1970s and was a significant contributor to the Williams Group of companies.

Research for the essays in this book began in 197778 when the first editor (Michael Byrne) was commissioned to write a history of the Williams Group and took the story of Irish Mist to 1966. It was a family-owned company and very private. Nothing more was done until 2016 when a reunion of the Irish Mist staff was held at the Tullamore DEW Old Bonded Warehouse and turned out to be a great evening.

Mr Byrne said that his co-editor, John Flanagan, was keen to get the story of Irish Mist into print, and now this series of essays with contributions of great strength and variety. John made his own unique contribution with his essays and, like his mentors in Irish Mist, insisted on the highest standards. John Flanagan has several essays arising from his close connection with Irish Mist and the Williams Group over twenty-five years.

John Flanagan, who worked with Irish Mist for over 20 years, gave an insight into the inner wrkings of the firm.

In 1961 I joined B. Daly & Co Ltd and two years later SI was transferred to Irish Mist (another wholly owned Williams company) to supervise the production line in the Bond Store. I joined up with Joe Scally, and I was still with him until I finished in 1985 over 22 years later. Joe and I were always involved in Production. We overcame many difficulties in the area over the years due to expansion and increased demand for output, with changes in packaging and design etc. I started on the middle floor of the Bond Store. We shared the building with Tullamore Dew. We had a staff of about 12 at the time, with no machinery as the output was small. Within a short time later, in 1966 due to increased demand, we had to move to the top floor. We became much more mechanised and we saw a dramatic increase in output, and also a big increase in staff numbers. We also saw the introduction of the Figurine, Blue decanter, the pocket Flask, the Waterford Glass decanter, and many more display packs, introduced onto the market. In 1966 a new office block was built, along with a new laboratory and a compounding unit.

Within a few years we were congested again because of the growth in sales and lack of space, and difficulty of access to the top floor, and with only one entry/exit door to the building to get all materials up and down. In 1970 we had to find more space to allow for a further increase in output and we left the Bond Store and moved to a newly built warehouse, with offices and canteen all under the one roof in OConnell (Row) Street at the back of Bury Quay. This was a major move and allowed for greater expansion to meet demand, as again sales improved dramatically. The whole complex was very impressive to the many groups of visitors, who came to visit from all over the world. It was something the Williams family could be very proud of as we were also.

1980 saw a further upgrading and modernisation of the production line, and much more automation, with the introduction of new packaging and improved quality standards. Irish Mist Liqueur was a quality product and received many awards, Gold and Silver in Trade Fairs around the world, Irish Export Awards, and Quality marks. Irish Mist was exported to over 80 countries around the world and was the first Irish liqueur to achieve worldwide success. Every bottling operation had a reference number, every carton had a number, and every bottle carried the date it was produced, and all the information including the destination of the consignment was recorded in the bottling register. If there was a complaint, and they were very rare, it could be traced back to the initial operation.

The production of Irish Mist Liqueur took place Under Bond which meant it was under the control of Customs & Excise. They had a record of every operation, including the number of cartons produced daily, as they all had to be accounted for.

1985 saw a big downturn in the economy both at home and abroad, and a decision was made to sell The Irish Mist Liqueur Company Ltd to Cantwell & Cochrane in Clonmel.

The bottling operations ceased on 27th November 1985, and the last bottle of Irish Mist bottled in Tullamore came off the production line on that date at 4.30 p.m. The announcement of the sale and the closure came as a major shock to all of us. The feeling is something you have to experience to believe. I saw the company grow and expand from its infancy and experienced many milestones on the way. I enjoyed the challenge that each task brought, and I was very sorry to see it close.

The compounding operation remained for a further twelve years until 1997, with six of a staff remaining. The Irish Mist Liqueur was transported by road and was bottled in Clonmel during that time.
JUDGE Keenan Johnson was highly critical of what he called the ''mob mentality'' which arose during an assault on two gardai in Tullamore during the height of the pandemic.

Judge Johnson compared the incident to what occurred in Dublin recently.

Before this week's Tullamore circuit court was Curtis Dunne, 43 Beechmount Park, Mucklagh, who was facing charges of assault causing harm in August 2020 at Arden View, Tullamore.

Under questioning from Kevin White BL, prosecuting, Sergeant Richard Thornton said that Sergeant Fergus Collins and Garda Rory Heffernan had been contacted by Brian Dolan regarding a suspected theft from Dolan's Shop on Clara Road by the defendant Curtis Dunne.

Garda Heffernan, joined by Sergeant Collins, went on patrol and spotted the defendant in Arden View They informed him he was going to be arrested. When Garda Heffernan went to cuff Mr Dunne's arm he put up resistance.

A large crowd began to gather and came towards the scene. Curtis Dunne pulled away and punched Sergeant Collins twice to the right side of his head. He was pepper sprayed but continued to resist arrest. A baton was used on his legs and the gardai restrained him on the ground. He was taken to Tullamore Garda Station but he was not cooperative, the court heard.

Sergeant Thornton said the large crowd which had gathered were egging on Curtis Dunne throughout the incident.

Afterwards, Sergeant Collins's head began swelling. He complained of feeling faint and later collapsed and was brought to Tullamore hospital.

Sergeant Thornton said that on the day of the assault, Sergeant Collins had had a ''bad feeling'' when he saw the number of people gathered in the area. Curtis Dunne was squaring up to Garda Heffernan and Sergeant Collins had placed a hand on Curtis Dunne's arm as he felt he might strike out. However, his radio had become entangled with Curtis Dunne and he couldn't get away. He used his baton on Dunne's legs to help restrain him.

Sergeant Collins said he didn't remember being hit but recalled being on the ground and afterwards being in the hospital. He was out of work for 4 months and suffered from headaches and still has to take pain killers, Sergeant Thornton said.

Curtis Dunne had previous convictions and had received suspended sentences in the past for assault, causing harm, theft, being in possession of knives and other articles.

Catriona Dunne, the mother of the defendant, told Judge Johnson that her husband had died in a road accident when their son was just 9 months old. She said Curtis had been diagnosed with ADHD, ADD, dyslexia and psychiatric problems. He had also attempted suicide. She said she took him out of school as she knew he was going to be expelled.

Mrs Dunne said her son claimed that when he was young he was hearing voices. She took him to the Bannon mental health centre in Tullamore and was told he was too young to hear voices. She said instead he was given drugs and later became addicted.

In April 2021 he complained of hallucinations. He spent time in Portlaoise mental hospital where he was kept in isolation. She said his mental state deteriorated during Covid. He is on 42 tablets a day, two at least are anti-psychotic.She said he needs a high level of supervision. She said he was referred to England for treatment and was refused a place in Dublin but she doesn't know why. She said that being arrested got him back into the system and he has stayed out of trouble since then.

Mrs Dunne said her son is very easily led and whoever he keeps company with he tries to keep up with them. She said he is doing well mentally, but physically he has put on a lot of weight due to the medication.

Judge Keenan Johnson said he was very lucky to have such a good mother. He described Curtis Dunne as an extremely vulnerable person.

He said he had huge sympathy for Sgt Collins and his colleague Garda Heffernan.

He said there was a huge culpability on the part of the large group that gathered on the day in a ''mob like fashion''. He said they were fully aware that Mr Dunne had psychiatric issues.

He said Mr Dunne is now receiving treatment which involves detention at Portlaoise psychiatric hospital. He said he was very impressed by his mother and she had done everything she could.

He acknowledged that it had been a horrific experience for Sgt Collins. But he said what was most appalling was the mob. He said the gardai had feared for their lives. He said this had no place in a civilised society and has no place in a town such as Tullamore which has such a rich culture. He said those involved should hang their heads in shame.

Judge Johnson said Sergeant Collins had been off work for four months and suffered appalling headaches. He had received three or four blows to the face. He returned part time to work before returning full time. He described the assault as life changing. He said he hopes he makes a full recovery. He said Gardai get a lot of negative publicity but they get up every morning and they don't know what they face and we owe a huge debt of gratitude to them.

In mitigation Judge Johnson said Mr Dunne had entered an early plea. He had suffered the tragic loss of his father at 9 months old. He suffers from schizophrenia.

The judge said the offence was on the upper end of the scale and warranted a headline sentence of three years and three months. He said he would reduce this to two years. However, he said he would adjourn that provided Mr Dunne takes advantage of a full treatment plan and once it is completed he will adjourn the case.

He put the case back to March 19, 2024 for an update.
The Government has won a vote of confidence in Minister of Justice Helen McEntee after hours of heated debate on both her record and that of the main opposition party Sinn Fein.

The Government won the vote by 83 votes to 63. There was one abstention.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald had accused Ms McEntee of failing abysmally in her responsibilities as the Dail debated the motion of confidence in her post following a stabbing attack and violent riot in Dublin city centre.

The Government compared Ms McDonald to former US president Donald Trump as Sinn Fein was accused of exploiting the violent events for originally tabling a motion of no confidence in Ms McEntee.

Ms McDonald told the Dail on Tuesday: It is the responsibility of the Minister for Justice to ensure that our streets are safe, to ensure that An Garda Siochana have the resources that they need. And she has failed in these responsibilities abysmally with very dire consequences.

She added: The ministers position is untenable and she must go.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said the original Sinn Fein motion was a political stunt as he expressed full confidence in the minister.

He said: Removing the Justice Minister and the Garda Commissioner, which is Sinn Fein policy, would be a victory for those who engaged in violence and incited violence on our streets.

Mr Varadkar accused Ms McDonald of engaging in absolutely disgraceful behaviour after she said it took nearly two weeks for the Government to reach out to the school community affected by the stabbing, in a remark understood to be about ministers meeting parents at the affected school.

He said: The leader of the opposition has quite disgracefully misled the Dail. There was contact from the Government with the school within 24 hours of the events.

Several ministers did so. She knows that, its deliberate misleading and it should be withdrawn. I call on her to be decent for once and withdraw it.

Minister Josepha Madigan further described the Sinn Fein leader as Mary Lou Trump over the comments.

Ms McDonald said she would not withdraw the remark and that she had stated facts.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin expressed confidence in Ms McEntee and accused Sinn Fein of seeking to intimidate opponents and journalists alike.

He added: The cynicism and aggression continues to directly undermine the ability of our democratic institutions and democratically elected representatives to work constructively on issues.

Labour justice spokesman Aodhan O Riordan said there had been a cross-government failure to properly resource An Garda Siochana as he said the party would not be supporting the Governments motion in confidence for the Justice Minister.

Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon said it was justifiable to seek accountability following an absence of collaboration from the Government on safety in the city.

In her contribution, Ms McEntee accused Sinn Fein of using an appalling situation to play politics and seeking to undermine An Garda Siochana following a stabbing and riot in Dublin city centre.

Ms McEntee told the Dail prior to the vote: It is a great honour to be Minister for Justice, Ceann Comhairle. I see it as my duty to build stronger, safer communities.

She said one of her top priorities has been tackling domestic, sexual and gender-based violence as she also highlighted her work on legislation for body-worn cameras, facial recognition technology and a record budget for gardai.

Ms McEntee said Sinn Fein wanted instability, adding: Their mantra is to sack, sue and bully.

It may surprise (Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou) McDonald to know this is not an episode of The Apprentice, you cant fire your way out of the situation.

After two hours of debate on confidence in her position and the Governments handling of policing, the minister concluded: It has been a difficult few weeks, above all for the victims of the recent appalling attack, for their families and their community.

They remain at the forefront of my mind. So too is the safety of the Irish people.

All of my actions during my time in office have been taken to make people safer, and make them feel safer. It is for this reason I will continue working to build stronger, safer communities.

And I will not be deterred by a Sinn Fein party which seeks to sow division and disunity for its own ends.

She was applauded by members of the Government benches.
The EU has been far too passive for far too long in its efforts to secure a lasting peace settlement in the Middle East, the Taoiseach has said.

Leo Varadkar said he will use next weeks meeting of the European Council to urge fellow EU leaders to agree a joint call for a renewed ceasefire and for them to press harder for the two-state solution peace model for Israel and Palestine.

His comments came as Israel continued its assault on the Gaza Strip following Hamass October 7 attacks on Israeli civilians.

Mr Varadkar was challenged on the issue in the Dail by Labour leader Ivana Bacik, who insisted Ireland should be doing more to ramp up pressure on Israel to stop its bombardment.

We want to see a stronger response from Ireland, pushing at EU level to ensure that other EU member states can be brought on board to seek that crucial goal of a permanent humanitarian ceasefire, said Ms Bacik.

In response, Mr Varadkar told the Dail: Ill use my role as Taoiseach at the European Council next week to press for the European Union to adopt wording calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, and calling for the European Union in particular to take a much more active role in pushing for a two-state solution and Palestinian statehood, because the European Union has been far too passive for far too long when it comes to this conflict.

Ms Bacik said it would be a brave and bold step for Ireland to officially recognise Palestine as a state in his own right.

Mr Varadkar said such a move would be ineffectual if Ireland acted alone.

We dont believe that the best way to do it is unilaterally  that will be dismissed, he said.

It will be ineffectual and will be seen as an outlier acting unilaterally at a European level.

What we would like to do is do it as part of a group of European countries, and I think that will be a more significant statement.

And we dont just want it to be a statement  we want it to be part perhaps of an agreement to end the violence thats happening at the moment and to put in place a new administration in Gaza for the day after.

And thats the kind of conversation that were having at the moment, for example with Spain, which has a similar view to ours, and some other countries as well.
In today's episode of "A Place to Sleep," the podcast produced by the team at the Albany Democrat-Herald and Corvallis Gazette-Times, we visit Portland, the Oregon city likely most associated with homelessness.

Podcasts 'A Place to Sleep' podcast: Catch all the episodes here Our podcast, A Place to Sleep, explores how Oregon cities are responding to a new law that is meant to provide homeless individuals a place to rest.

But Portland is not unlike cities in the mid-Willamette Valley in that it spends a lot of time defining when and where homeless people can't sleep rather than where they can. A daytime sleeping ban has already been challenged in court.

"A Place to Sleep" examines the constitutional right for people to sleep when they don't have any place to go. It looks at how Oregon has codified recent rulings, requiring cities to designate, and regulate if desired, sleeping places within their boundaries. If cities decline, then all public spaces are available, so most cities in the state have complied.

Because each city's approach has been different, we visited Albany, Corvallis, Sweet Home, Lebanon, Brownsville, Grants Pass and now Portland, where homeless individuals tell their struggles with a law that requires them to pack up all their belongings by 8 a.m. and cart them around all day until they can set up camp again at 8 p.m.

Stories in this series:
What Went Wrong For BRS In Telangana Polls? The Findings Of Lokniti-CSDS Survey Is Here

Hyderabad

oi-Prakash KL

Despite the towering image of BRS supremo and Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, along with the party's extensive grassroots network and welfare programmes, the party failed to emerge victorious in the recently-held assembly polls.

The ruling party had heavily banked on the welfare schemes, but the schemes failed to reach the people, The Hindu reported citing a Lokniti-CSDS survey. It further claims that the Aasara Pension Scheme had the greatest reach among the schemes, while the Housing Scheme had the least.

There appears to be a clear link between not benefiting from the schemes and a higher vote percentage for the Congress party.

An Old Purported Video Of Bribery Involving Telangana CM-Designate Revanth Reddy Goes Viral

The KCR government implemented initiatives and programmes for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). However, a significant majority of SC (82 per cent) and OBC (83 per cent) voters did not reap the benefits of these schemes. This voting pattern indicated a distinct preference for the Congress, particularly among OBC voters, as 43 per cent of those who did not benefit from the schemes voted for the Congress.

In contrast, the state witnessed a lower penetration rate of the schemes introduced by the BJP-led Central government. On average, three out of five voters did not receive advantages from these central initiatives, leading to a lack of motivation to vote for the BJP among those who did not benefit.

Consequently, almost 40 per cent of voters who did not experience advantages from the schemes of the Central government opted for the Congress over alternative parties.

The analysis indicates that the schemes introduced by the BRS had a restricted impact in Telangana, even after a decade of governance, thereby impeding the party's prospects of securing a third term. The results imply that voters tend to base their choices on whether they benefit from such schemes, and in the absence of such benefits, they are inclined to support a party other than the incumbent.

Revanth Reddy To Take Oath As Telangana CM, Swearing-In Ceremony On Dec 7 At 10:28 am

The survey credits the Congress' voter reach model and campaign strategists for its success in the polls. Information from the Lokniti-CSDS survey indicates parity between the Congress (52 per cent) and the BRS (52 per cent) in virtual voter outreach programs through phone calls and recorded voice messages. The BJP closely followed at 44 per cent, while the BSP lagged behind at 10 per cent (Table 1). In the outreach program involving physical visits to voters' homes, the Congress (78 per cent) outperformed the BRS (76 per cent), with the BJP trailing at 63 per cent.

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Story first published: Wednesday, December 6, 2023, 17:31 [IST]
17 Of Chhattisgarhs Newly Elected 90 MLAs Face Criminal Cases

India

pti-PTI

As many as 17 of the 90 MLAs in the newly elected Chhattisgarh assembly have declared criminal cases against themselves, with six facing serious charges like voluntarily causing hurt and criminal intimidation.

The BJP swept the Chhattisgarh assembly polls, winning 54 seats. The Congress, which had won 68 seats in 2018 in the state, was reduced to 35 seats, while the Gondwana Gantantra Party (GGP) managed to win in one constituency.

Late chief minister Ajit Jogi founded Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (J), and Bahujan Samaj Party failed to open their accounts this time. As per a report by non-profits Chhattisgarh Election Watch and Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), of the 90 newly elected MLAs, 17 (about 19 per cent) have declared criminal cases against themselves in their poll affidavits.

Of them, six (7 per cent) MLAs have declared serious criminal cases against themselves, it said. Twelve (22 per cent) of BJPs 54 MLAs and five (14 per cent) of Congress 35 MLAs have declared criminal cases against themselves. Similarly, the BJP has four (7 per cent) MLAs and the Congress has two (6 per cent) legislators who have declared serious criminal cases against themselves.

BJP Paints MP, Chhattisgarh And Rajasthan Saffron With Hindi Heartland Wins

As per the report, outgoing Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel (Patan seat), Devendra Yadav (Bhilai Nagar) and Atal Shrivastav (Kota) are among the Congress winners who face criminal cases. Similarly, former ministers Rajesh Munat (Raipur City West) and Dayaldas Baghel (Navagarh), Shakuntala Singh Portey (Pratappur), Uddheshwari Paikra (Samri), OP Choudhary (Raigarh) Vijay Sharma (Kawardha seat), Vinayak Goyal (Chitrakot-ST) and Asharam Netam (Kanker-ST) are among the newly elected MLAs from BJP who face criminal cases as per the report. In 2018, the report said, 24 (27 per cent) of the 90 elected MLAs had declared criminal cases against themselves, with 13 (14 per cent) facing serious charges.
All Eyes On BJP Meet: CMs For Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh And Madhya Pradesh To Be Decided

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

A crucial session of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) parliamentary board is scheduled for Thursday, likely to culminate in the selection of new chief ministers for Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan.

The high-level BJP conclave comes on the heels of the party's recent triumph in the assembly elections of the Hindi heartland states on December 3. With the BJP's victory unseating the Congress from power in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, and successfully overcoming anti-incumbency to retain power in Madhya Pradesh, the significance of these states, contributing a total of 65 MPs to the Lok Sabha, cannot be overstated. The electoral success stands as a significant morale booster for the BJP ahead of next year's Lok Sabha elections.

Revanth Reddy Net Worth: A Look At the Assets Of Telangana CM-Elect

Earlier today, 10 BJP MPs, including two Union ministers who emerged victorious in the assembly elections, resigned from the Lok Sabha. Their resignations were tendered subsequent to meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief JP Nadda.

Madhya Pradesh witnessed a sweeping victory for the BJP, securing 163 out of 230 seats. As speculation brews regarding the next chief minister, incumbent CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan clarified his position on Tuesday, asserting he never vied for the CM post. "I was never a contender for the CM's position, neither in the past nor now. I am solely a party worker and will fulfill any responsibility or duty the party entrusts me with," he stated.

Key BJP figures like Union ministers Jyotiraditya Scindia, Narendra Singh Tomar, Prahlad Singh Patel, and the party's national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya have emerged as potential candidates for the top post.

In Rajasthan, the BJP's victory, securing 115 out of 199 contested seats, has spurred intense deliberations in Jaipur and Delhi for the selection of the new chief minister. Notable party members such as two-time CM Vasundhara Raje, Diya Kumari, Mahant Balak Nath, and Rajyavarardhan Singh Rathore are prominent contenders for the role.

Chhattisgarh, which witnessed a Congress sweep five years ago, experienced a turnaround in this election as the BJP secured 54 out of 90 seats, relegating the grand old party to 35 seats. Various names, including Raman Singh, Arun Sao, OP Chaudhary, and Gomti Sai, are being considered for the top leadership position in the state.

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Story first published: Wednesday, December 6, 2023, 21:12 [IST]
Supriya Sule Chooses Struggle Over Power, Says I Had to Choose Between Power and Struggle

Amit Shah Highlights Nehru's 'Two PoK Blunders,' Labels the 'Biggest' One'

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Union Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday blamed the security challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir over the decades to former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Shah, speaking in the Lok Sabha regarding the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, stated that two significant mistakes by Nehru led to these issues.

"Responsibly, I declare that Kashmir bore the brunt of two errors made during PM Jawaharlal Nehru's tenure. The primary mistake was announcing a ceasefire when our forces were on the verge of victory, resulting in the creation of PoK. If the ceasefire had been delayed by merely three days, PoK would have remained a part of India," Shah explained, despite strong objections from opposition MPs.

He pointed out the second blunder was involving the United Nations in the Kashmir matter.

"Another mistake was taking our issue to the UN," he added.

Shah also held Congress accountable for the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits, suggesting that the incident could have been avoided if not for vote bank politics.

The Lok Sabha approved the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, which aims to designate two members from the Kashmiri migrant community and one representing displaced individuals from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to the legislative assembly. The second bill was also passed.

Shah emphasized that these bills aimed to rectify the historical injustices suffered by those deprived of their rights for the past 70 years.

BJP leader Giriraj Singh echoed Amit Shah's sentiments, affirming, "Amit Shah rightly attributes the loss of PoK to Jawaharlal Nehru. He withdrew the forces and internationalized the Kashmir issue."

Jawaharlal Nehru served as India's first Prime Minister, a close confidant of Mahatma Gandhi, and a prominent leader in the freedom struggle. He was the father of former PM Indira Gandhi and the late grandmother of Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

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Story first published: Wednesday, December 6, 2023, 18:56 [IST]
Baryl Vanneihsangi: Former Radio Jockey Is Now The Youngest Voice For Women In Mizoram Assembly

India

oi-Gaurav Sharma

Elected on the Zoram People's Movement's (ZPM) ticket from the Aizawl South-III constituency, Baryl Vanneihsangi has become the youngest member of the Mizoram Assembly. The 32-year-old had worked as a radio jockey before stepping into politics. Vanneihsangi is quite popular among the people of the state, especially youth, for supporting gender equality and has over 252k followers on Instagram.

Vanneihsangi came to the limelight after she started raising her voice for more involvement of women in the state governance system. She said gender is no bar for women to pursue anything of their choice. "I just want to tell all the women out there that our gender doesn't stop us from doing anything that we like and wish to pursue. It doesn't prevent us from taking up something that we are passionate about. My message to them is that regardless of which community or social strata they belong to, if they want to take up something they should just go for it," said Vanneihsangi as quoted by the news agency ANI.

The youngest MLA emerged victorious against the Mizo National Front's F. Lalnunmawia by 1,414 votes.

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All About ZPMs Baryl Vanneihsangi, Mizorams Youngest Woman MLA | Assembly Elections |Oneindia News

The 40-member Mizoram Assembly saw a battle between 174 candidates, of which only 16 were women. While only three women candidates managed to secure victories in their respective constituencies.

ZPM Wins Mizoram: Know All About The State's New CM Face Lalduhoma

The Zoram People Movement was founded by a former IPS Lalduhoma in 2018 to battle up against Congress and the Mizo National Front. That time the newly formed party won 8 out of 40 seats, But this time, the revolutionary party registered a landslide victory by bagging 27 seats. Followed by the MNF with 10 seats, the BJP two and the Congress one. According to the reports, the sworn-in ceremony for the new Chief Minister of Mizoram will be held on Friday.
Congress Slams Amit Shah for False Statements on Nehrus Kashmir Role

The Congress party in India has accused Home Minister Amit Shah of making deliberately provocative and blatantly false statements about Jawaharlal Nehrus role in Jammu and Kashmir in 1947 and 1948.

India

-Krishna Kripa

New Delhi: The Congress party has strongly criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah for making "deliberately provocative and blatantly false statements" about India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's role in Jammu and Kashmir during 1947 and 1948. The party alleged that Shah's remarks were an attempt to undermine the Congress and India's narratives on the issue.

Jairam Ramesh's Response

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh took to social media platform Twitter to express his disapproval of Shah's statements. He highlighted that Dr. Farooq Abdullah, a prominent Kashmiri leader, immediately called out Shah for distorting history. Ramesh emphasized that these tactics are aimed at derailing the Congress and India's narratives, and he refused to be drawn into Shah's trap.

Ramesh further recommended that Shah read Chandrasekhar Dasgupta's book, "War and Diplomacy in Kashmir," which he believes exposes many of the myths propagated by the Home Minister.

Amit Shah's Remarks in Lok Sabha

During a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Amendment Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Amendment Bill, Shah attributed the sufferings of the people of Jammu and Kashmir to two major blunders committed by Nehru. He claimed that Nehru's decision to declare a ceasefire without securing the entire Kashmir region and his subsequent decision to take the issue to the United Nations were responsible for the loss of a significant portion of the territory to Pakistan.

Supriya Shrinate's Counter-Allegations

Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate countered Shah's claims, accusing him of spreading lies in the House on the Kashmir issue. She asserted that Shah has repeatedly exploited the wounds of Kashmiri Pandits for political gain. Shrinate pointed out that the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits occurred during the tenure of Vishwanath Pratap Singh's government, which was supported by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Shrinate further highlighted that the Home Minister in that government was Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, whom Shah later appointed as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. She also mentioned that the Governor at that time was Jagmohan, who was subsequently made a Union Minister by Shah.

Shrinate criticized the current government for failing to provide adequate support to Kashmiri Pandits, alleging that they have been forced to become homeless once again.

The Congress party's strong reaction to Amit Shah's statements reflects the ongoing political tensions and differing narratives surrounding the history of Jammu and Kashmir. The accusations and counter-accusations underscore the complexity and sensitivity of the issue, which continues to be a source of debate and controversy in India.
Why Get Elected To Parliament If You Want To Raise Issues On Streets: Thakur Slams Opposition Over Manipur

Congress Hatching Conspiracy To Insult Indian Culture, Identity: Anurag Thakur

India

pti-PTI

Stepping up heat on the opposition over the north-south divide remarks, Union Minister Anurag Thakur on Wednesday accused the Congress of hatching a conspiracy to insult Indian culture and identity, instead of analysing the reasons for its defeat in the elections.

Addressing a press conference here, he also questioned the silence of senior Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi on the issue and wondered whether the remarks on the north-south divide, reference to north India as "gaumutra states" and criticism of Sanatan Dharma had their sanction.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi is spreading the message of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' but the opposition has started using foul language and blaming the EVMs and regionalism for their loss in the assembly elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh," the senior BJP leader said.

Assembly Election Verdict: BJP's Landslide Victory In Three States, Congress Claims Telangana

"The Congress doesn't believe in constitutional institutions. After facing defeat, they never analyse the reason for the defeat. They keep blaming EVMs and insult Sanatan Dharma, Hindus and Hindu culture," said Thakur, the Union Information and Broadcasting Minister. He said that during the election campaign, Congress raised the issues of casteism and religion, and when it did not work the opposition party was now resorting to a north-south divide.

#WATCH | Union Minister Anurag Thakur says, " After the defeat, they(Congress)have resorted to abuse, and their thinking very clear now...they slam EVMs...Theyre conspiring to erase the culture and identity of our countrysome people stand with 'Tukde-Tukde' gang... but we pic.twitter.com/xoyADO7uCC  ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2023

"Congress-led 'ghamandia' (arrogant) alliance is leaving no stone unturned to insult Hindu, Hindi and Sanatan Dharma," Thakur alleged. His remarks came a day after the DMK's Lok Sabha member DNV Senthil Kumar's description of the Hindi heartland as "gaumutra" states.

Senthil Kumar's comments come in the backdrop of some referring to the recent assembly election results as reflective of the 'North-South divide' after the BJP trounced the Congress in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, and the Congress won in Telangana.

"What is the Congress' compulsion to stick with the DMK which has been insulting Hindi, Hindus and Sanatana Dharma," Thakur wondered. The minister recalled that even chief minister-designate of Telangana A Revanth Reddy had made comments that his "Telangana DNA was better than the Bihar DNA" of his rivals.

Thakur said Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin and his son Udhaynidhi had also made remarks insulting Sanatana Dharma. Thakur claimed the trend of fuelling a north-south divide started with Rahul Gandhi's defeat in the Lok Sabha elections from Amethi in 2019.

Join Debate, Share Experiences Of Manipur Visit: Anurag Thakur To Oppn

Gandhi had made certain statements demeaning north Indians in his Lok Sabha seat of Wayanad after his electoral defeat in Amethi, Thakur alleged, adding the Congress leader had also made common cause with people who were keen to see India being divided into pieces.

"We had said back then that someone was standing with the 'tukde-tukde' gang. Now, the insulting comments by Congress' allies are sowing the seeds of dividing the country on regional lines. This reflects the real thinking of the Congress of divide and rule," Thakur added.
Cyclone Michaung leaves trail of destruction in Andhra Pradesh

Cyclone Michaung, which crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast close to Bapatla on Tuesday, has weakened into a cyclonic storm but has left a trail of destruction in its wake. The storm damaged 770-kilometre roads, uprooted 35 trees and killed three livestock, among others.

India

-Krishna Kripa

The severe cyclonic storm Michaung, which crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast close to Bapatla on Tuesday and subsequently weakened into a cyclonic storm, left a trail of destruction in its wake. Michaung is expected to subside into a deep depression over the next six hours, said an official. The storm damaged 770-kilometre roads, uprooted 35 trees and killed three livestock, among others.

Impact of Cyclone Michaung

According to data shared by the Chief Ministers Office (CMO), nearly 40 lakh people from 194 villages and two towns were affected by Michaungs impact, including the inundation of 25 villages. Though there was no loss of human life on Tuesday, Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority Director BR Ambedkar toldthat a four-year-old boy died after a hut wall collapsed on him in Tirupati district on Monday. While another person died in Bapatla district, Superintendent of Police Vakul Jindal toldthat the cause of death was not related to the cyclone. The lone deceased person was found in a drunken state on a road by his motorcycle, which was not submerged under water, in the Inkollu village, Jindal said.

Relief Efforts

Across the state, 204 relief camps are accommodating 15,173 evacuees. As part of relief efforts, 18,073 food packets and more than 1 lakh water packets were distributed. Eighty health camps were also organised. For the affected districts, the state government has sanctioned Rs 23 crore for relief efforts.

Extent of Damage

The damaged structures include 78 huts and a cattle shed while 232 houses were marooned. Two kuccha houses were fully damaged. Under the roads and buildings department, 770 kilometres of surface roads suffered damage in the districts of Konaseema 234 kilometres, Prakasam 55 kilometres, Nellore 433 kilometres and Tirupati 48 kilometres. Nellore also witnessed the highest number of trees being uprooted with 29 out of the total 35. Under the municipal administration department, 376 streetlights and 7.5 kilometres of roads were damaged. Fourteen minor irrigation sources were also damaged in Tirupati. The Andhra Pradesh Southern Power Distribution Company Ltd suffered damage to 13 33-KV feeders, 312 11-KV feeders, 29 33/11-KV sub-feeders, nine 33-KV poles, 140 11-KV poles and 244-LT poles.

Rainfall and Wind Speed

Under the influence of the severe cyclonic storm, 10 places -- seven in Tirupati and three in Nellore -- experienced more than 200 mm rainfall on Tuesday.Manubolu in Nellore district recorded 366.5 mm rainfall. Gales gusting up to speeds of 110 kilometres per hour are expected to prevail over west-central Bay of Bengal around the weather system for the next six hours and then gradually subside. Along north Andhra Pradesh coast, squally winds reaching speeds of 60 kilometres per hour and gusting up to 65 kilometres per hour are likely to prevail over the next 12 hours and gradually decrease thereafter.

Forecast for Wednesday

For Wednesday, the Met has forecast heavy rainfall -- 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm -- for Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Alluri Sitarama Raju, Anakapalli, Kakinada, Konaseema and Eluru districts.

The severe cyclonic storm Michaung caused significant damage in Andhra Pradesh, affecting nearly 40 lakh people and leaving a trail of destruction. While there was no loss of human life on Tuesday, the storm caused extensive damage to infrastructure, roads, and power supply. Relief efforts are underway, and the state government has sanctioned funds for the affected districts. The Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rainfall for Wednesday in several districts of the state.
J&K: As credentials of PM Package employees goes public, time to look at the rot in the system

Kashmiri Migrant Community Celebrates Reserved Assembly Seats: A Step Towards Political Empowerment

The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Amendment Bill reserves two assembly seats for the Kashmiri migrant community, granting them political representation and restoring their political legacy in the Kashmir Valley.

India

-Krishna Kripa

Political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir have expressed their support for the government's decision to reserve two seats in the assembly for the Kashmiri migrant community. They believe this move will empower the community politically and restore its political legacy in the Kashmir Valley.

BJP Spokesman Praises the Decision

Jammu and Kashmir BJP spokesman Rajiv Pandita welcomed the passage of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Amendment Bill, which seeks to nominate two members from the Kashmiri migrant community and one representing the displaced persons from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) to the legislative assembly. He stated that it is a significant day for Kashmiri Pandits and will empower the community politically.

Former ASKPC General Secretary Applauds the Move

Former general secretary of the All State Kashmiri Pandit Conference (ASKPC), Dr. T. K. Bhat, also praised the government for passing the bill. He believes it aims to restore the political legacy of the community in the Kashmir Valley, which was eroded earlier. Dr. Bhat expressed hope that this step will help restore the community's political representation.

Congress KP Minority Cell Chief Expresses Happiness

Congress KP minority cell chief Hira Lal Hangloo expressed happiness over the passage of the bill. He stated that it will provide representation to the community in the legislative setup for the first time under the reservation category. Hangloo welcomed the decision and expressed his happiness over the government's move.

Union Home Minister's Statement

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, while speaking during the debate on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Amendment Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Amendment Bill, said that the two bills linked to Jammu and Kashmir tabled by the Union government in the parliament aim to provide justice to those deprived of their rights for over 70 years. He also mentioned that the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits could have been averted if terrorism had been tackled without considering vote-bank politics.

The decision to reserve two seats in the assembly for the Kashmiri migrant community has been met with positive responses from political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir. They believe it will empower the community politically, restore its political legacy, and provide representation in the legislative setup. The move is seen as a step towards addressing the concerns and aspirations of the Kashmiri migrant community.
Maharashtra Minister Chhagan Bhujbal's Big Statement On Maratha Reservation, Read Here

India

oi-Gaurav Sharma

Maharashtra Minister Chhagan Bhujbal, who has been raising his voice for the backward for a very long time, on Wednesday gave a controversial statement related to the reservation. Bhujbal said, soon there will be no Marathas left in Maharashtra as a large number of Marathis are converting to Kunbi for the sake of reservation in Maharashtra. Kunbi is a community associated with agriculture that enjoys the OBC benefits for education and government jobs in Maharashtra.

The statement from the senior OBC leader came after the Maharashtra government decided to give Kunbi caste certificates to the people who possess documents from the Nizam era that recognize them as Kunbis. Answering a question on whether the inclusion of Marathas will affect the OBC reservation, Bhujbal said, "I feel now that there is no need to do anything else because all Maratha community members are taking Kunbi certificates and getting included in the OBC category. Hence, no Maratha will be left in Maharashtra as all of them are becoming Kunbis. I think there is no need for any other solution.

Answer a question on Ajit Pawar group's curative petition in the Supreme Court on reservation, Bhujbal said "I have already said whether you do curative petition or bring some other bill, when all are turning Kunbis and becoming part of OBC category, then who will be left out?"

Maratha Reservation Bill: Ashok Chavan Says Congress Is With People Seeking Quota

The state observed many protests and violent incidents since the demand for reservation to Maratha has been raised. It is one of the hot topics, which might be debated in the state assembly also. The Maharashtra Assembly Winter Session is slated for December 7 to 20 in Nagpur.

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Story first published: Wednesday, December 6, 2023, 17:08 [IST]
Paper Industry in India: Unlocking Potential Despite Challenges

The paper industry in India holds immense potential but grapples with challenges such as raw material scarcity and rising costs. This article explores the industrys impact on employment, socio-economic development, and its contribution to the countrys GDP.

India

-Krishna Kripa

The paper industry in India holds immense potential, yet it remains largely untapped due to a significant challenge: the acute shortage of fibre raw material. This was highlighted by Uttar Pradesh Minister Nand Gopal Gupta during the inauguration of the 16th International Conference and Exhibition "Paperex-2023" in Greater Noida.

Employment Opportunities and Socio-economic Impact

Despite the challenges, the paper industry plays a vital role in providing employment opportunities across the country. It directly and indirectly supports approximately 25 lakh individuals, contributing to the socio-economic development of India. The industry's consumption serves as a parameter for assessing the nation's progress, and it has a direct impact on the country's GDP.

Installed Capacity and Production

India boasts around 900 paper mills, with 104 of them located in Uttar Pradesh alone. The total installed capacity of all paper mills in the country stands at 27 million tonnes per annum, while the actual production is 24 million tonnes per annum. Uttar Pradesh's paper mills have an installed capacity of 6 million tonnes and produce approximately 4 million tonnes of paper annually.

Economic Contribution

The paper industry significantly contributes to the Indian economy. It generates a turnover of Rs 70,000 crore and contributes Rs 8,000 crore to the national exchequer. This industry aligns with the national priority of fostering a knowledge-based economy and plays a crucial role in achieving the government's goal of 8% overall growth in manufacturing.

Challenges Faced by the Industry

Despite its potential, the paper industry faces several challenges. The acute shortage of fibre raw material remains a primary hurdle, hindering the sector's growth. Additionally, the continuous rise in input costs, particularly for energy sources such as coal and non-coal, further exacerbates the challenges.

Paperex 2023: A Platform for Innovation and Collaboration

Paperex 2023, a four-day paper products fair, serves as a platform for industry stakeholders to come together and explore the latest advancements. With over 600 stalls and representatives from 20 countries participating, the event provides an opportunity for knowledge sharing, networking, and showcasing innovative products and technologies.

Sustainable Practices and Global Competitiveness

Minister Gupta emphasized the importance of adopting sustainable and environment-friendly practices within the paper industry. He also stressed the need for implementing cutting-edge technologies to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving global business landscape.

The paper industry in India has the potential to thrive and contribute even more to the nation's economy and development. By addressing the challenges of raw material shortage and rising input costs, while embracing sustainable practices and innovative technologies, the industry can unlock its full potential and continue to play a vital role in India's progress.
Patna High Court: B.Ed Degree Holders Not Eligible for Primary School Teaching

The Patna High Court has ruled that candidates with B.Ed degrees cannot be considered eligible for appointment as primary school teachers in the state, aligning with the Supreme Courts decision that only diploma holders in elementary education possess the necessary pedagogical skills for primary teaching.

India

-Krishna Kripa

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The Patna High Court has ruled that candidates with a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree cannot be considered eligible for appointment as primary school teachers in the state. The decision was made by a division bench comprising Chief Justice K Vinod Chandran and Justice Rajiv Roy.

Diploma in Elementary Education Required

The court stated that only candidates with a Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) are eligible for primary school teaching jobs. The bench observed that the notification issued by the National Council of Teacher Education (NCTE) on June 28, 2018, specifying B.Ed as the qualification criteria for primary teachers, is no longer applicable.

Supreme Court Ruling

The Patna High Court's decision aligns with a recent order from the Supreme Court, which held that only D.El.Ed holders can be appointed as primary school teachers. The apex court had observed that B.Ed degree holders lack the necessary pedagogical skills to handle young children.

Reworking of Appointments

The high court bench acknowledged that the appointments made based on the NCTE notification will need to be reworked. The bench noted that the state is bound by the decision of the Supreme Court, as per Article 141 of the Constitution.

The Patna High Court's ruling has significant implications for primary school teacher recruitment in the state. It reinforces the importance of specialized training and qualifications for primary school teaching and ensures that teachers have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively educate young children.
Rajasthan Bandh: Markets Closed, Roads Blocked After Rajput Leaders Killing

Markets were closed and roads were blocked in Jaipur and other parts of Rajasthan as the Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena called for a bandh following the killing of its chief, Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi. The body of Gogamedi was shifted from a private hospital to the SMS government hospital for postmortem.

India

-Krishna Kripa

Jaipur, December 6: Markets across Jaipur and several other districts in Rajasthan remained shut, while protesters blocked roads and halted train services on Wednesday in response to a bandh call issued by the Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena following the assassination of their leader, Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi.

Governor Intervenes

Amid the escalating tension, Governor Kalraj Mishra engaged in a telephonic conversation with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and subsequently summoned the state's chief secretary, home secretary, police chief, and Jaipur police commissioner to assess the law and order situation.

Dharna Called Off

The dharna, which had been ongoing outside the private hospital in Jaipur where Gogamedi's body was kept since Tuesday, was called off on Wednesday night after the police assured the family members that the accused would be apprehended within 72 hours. Additionally, the SHO of Shyam Nagar police station and other negligent police officers would be suspended.

Postmortem and Investigation

Gogamedi's body was transferred from the private hospital to the SMS government hospital for postmortem, which is currently underway. Meanwhile, the police have formed a special investigation team to probe the Rajput leader's killing, which occurred when two assailants shot him at his residence on Tuesday.

Gangster Claims Responsibility

On Facebook, gangster Rohit Godara, believed to be associated with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, claimed responsibility for the assassination, stating that Gogamedi was targeted for supporting their adversaries. The police have identified the two alleged killers as Rohit Rathore from Jaipur and Nitin Fauji from Haryana's Mahendragarh and have announced a cash reward of Rs 5 lakh for information leading to their arrest.

Widespread Protests

Markets remained closed in numerous cities, including Jaipur, Kota, Bundi, Ajmer, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Jhalawar, Baran, and others, while a massive rally was held in Udaipur amidst heavy police deployment. Incidents of stone-pelting were reported in Jaipur, and some protesters gathered outside the BJP office. Public transport services were disrupted, and traffic snarls were witnessed on major highways due to blockades.

Assurance to the Family

In the evening, Rajput community leaders claimed that the administration had agreed to their demands, including an investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and protection for the family and eyewitnesses. However, Gogamedi's wife, Sheela Shekhawat, urged the protesters to remain steadfast until the accused were encountered. Eventually, the family members agreed to call off the dharna after receiving written assurance of the accused's arrest within 72 hours and the suspension of negligent police officers.

FIR Lodged

In the FIR registered by Sheela Shekhawat at Shyam Nagar police station, she asserted that her husband had informed Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and the Director General of Police (DGP) through three letters about the threats to his life. She further alleged that the Rajasthan Police had been alerted by the Punjab Police regarding intelligence inputs about a conspiracy to attack Gogamedi, but the DGP deliberately withheld security.

Political Reactions

Former MLA Manoj Nyangli and community leader Radheysham Tanwar announced that the administration had assured an NIA investigation and protection for the family members. BJP leader Rajendra Rathore expressed his intention to write to the Union Home Minister seeking an NIA probe, while Mahipal Singh Makrana, national president of Shri Rajput Karni Sena, demanded the removal of the state police chief for failing to provide security to Gogamedi.

The assassination of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi has sparked widespread outrage and protests across Rajasthan, leading to market closures, transportation disruptions, and heightened tensions. The state government and law enforcement agencies are under immense pressure to swiftly apprehend the perpetrators and restore normalcy in the region.
Seema Haider's Ex-Husband Ghulam Seeks Legal Recourse To Reunite With Estranged Wife, Children

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Gulam Haider, Seema's first husband, has appealed to Pakistan's Supreme Court to reunite him with his wife and children. He claims that Seema entered India illegally via Nepal and converted to Hinduism, even changing her children's names.

On Tuesday, Ghulam Haider, Seema Haider's first husband, sought assistance from Pakistan's Supreme Court through his lawyer, Dr. Roshan. Presenting crucial documents, they built a compelling case in his favor, urging the court to facilitate the return of his family to Pakistan. Ghulam expressed this plea to a local YouTuber, stressing his desire to bring his four children, currently residing in India with Seema and Sachin, back to him. However, no further details have been disclosed by Ghulam's legal representative.

Despite Seema Haider's repeated assertions of her disinclination to return to Pakistan, Ghulam remains resolute in his pursuit of what he believes is rightfully his. He confessed his love for Seema upon learning of her marriage to an Indian man and emphasized their love marriage. Following financial hardships, he moved to Saudi Arabia for employment in 2019.

After Seema Haider, Another Pakistani Woman Set To Marry Samir Khan In Kolkata

Seema, originally from Pakistan's Sindh province, traveled to Greater Noida to be with Sachin Meena, whom she met through the online game PUBG. Their virtual connection blossomed into WhatsApp conversations and eventually marriage.

The story of Seema, a 27-year-old mother of four, and Sachin, a 22-year-old shop assistant, falling in love while playing PUBG during the pandemic gained widespread attention. Allegedly, Seema and her children left Pakistan and entered India through Nepal, eventually settling in a rented apartment in Greater Noida.

Legal complications arose as Seema was suspected of illegal entry under Indian laws, raising national security concerns. Questions were raised about how she managed to enter undetected. Meanwhile, Seema's estranged husband, Ghulam Haider, working in Saudi Arabia, sought the intervention of Indian and Pakistani authorities for his family's return.

How Pakistani Woman Seema Haider Celebrated Her First Karwa Chauth In India

Seema's decision to marry Sachin, a Hindu, caused discord with her community in Pakistan, particularly in her hometown of Bhittaiabad, Gulistan-e-Jauhar. Her home there is described as a modest three-room dwelling in an area plagued by poor sanitation and living conditions.

Seema faced interrogation for unlawful entry and alleged ties to ISI, the Pakistani intelligence agency, while Sachin faced legal consequences for harboring undocumented immigrants.

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Story first published: Wednesday, December 6, 2023, 17:24 [IST]
Three held for stone pelting on trains in Mumbai and Thane, two women injured

Thane civic body issues notice to shops, establishments to display signboards in Marathi

Thane Municipal Commissioner Abhijit Bangar has asked nine assistant civic commissioners to ensure that signboards of shops and other establishments in the city are displayed in the Marathi Devnagri script in bold letters as per Maharashtra government rules.

India

-Krishna Kripa

Thane Municipal Commissioner Abhijit Bangar has issued an order to nine assistant civic commissioners to ensure that signboards of shops and other establishments in the city are displayed in the Marathi Devnagri script in bold letters, as per Maharashtra government rules.

Responsibility Fixed on Civic Corporation

An official release by the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) said the responsibility of ensuring the usage of Marathi on signboards has been fixed on the civic corporation. Bangar has cited a Supreme Court ruling in this regard and issued orders.

Assistant Commissioners Assigned Responsibility

Bangar has fixed the responsibility of ensuring compliance with the Supreme Court order on the nine assistant commissioners of Thane. Suitable action should be taken against shops and establishments not complying with the direction of displaying their signboards in the Marathi Devnagri script in bold letters, he said.

Legal Basis for the Order

As per Rule 35 and Section 36C of the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Regulation of employment and conditions of service Rules, 2018, and the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service Amendment Act, 2022, respectively, the signboards of establishments must be in Marathi Devnagri script in bold letters in the state.

Supreme Court Deadline

The Supreme Court earlier gave shopkeepers a two-month deadline, which ended on November 25, to install Marathi signboards. The Thane Municipal Corporation is now taking steps to ensure compliance with this order.

The move to make Marathi the prominent language on signboards in Thane is in line with the Maharashtra government's efforts to promote the use of the Marathi language. The Supreme Court's ruling and the subsequent order by the Thane Municipal Commissioner are aimed at ensuring compliance with the state's language laws.
Finance Minister Kaag Underscores Crucial Role of COP28 in Climate Financing

In a recent interview, Netherlands Finance Minister Sigrid Kaag highlighted the importance of COP28 in securing funding for climate change projects. Kaag emphasized the need for financial commitment and collaboration in the global fight against climate change and underscored the significance of the COP28 platform in this endeavor. She also touched upon the importance of the Finance Day at COP28 and the role of the private sector in funding climate change initiatives.

International

-Oneindia Staff

By Oneindia Staff

On 6th December 2023, Sigrid Kaag, the Finance Minister of the Netherlands, emphasized the critical role of COP28 in marshalling the requisite funding for climate-oriented projects, with a vision of "moving from millions to trillions". She expressed these views in an interview with the Emirates News Agency (WAM), conducted on the margins of the COP28 meeting.

The Importance of COP28

Kaag underscored the significance of COP28, not just because of the mounting scientific evidence of climate change's impact but also as a historical juncture where it is still feasible to reverse the course, despite significant delays in meeting the set objectives and targets. "This COP is extremely important, given the data and the science we have concerning the impact of climate change. It is a historical moment where we can still flip the script, even though we've fallen behind in meeting our goals and targets," she stated.

Kaag highlighted the strong political commitment and the technical expertise available, with all stakeholders on board.

Finance Day at COP28

She also emphasized the importance of the Finance Day, which was part of the COP28 schedule. She explained that while innovative ideas, technology, and planning at a national level are all essential, without the necessary funding, nothing can be achieved. Kaag said, "Finance Day is a significant event at COP28 because, while we can have the best ideas, discuss innovation, technology, and country planning, without money, it's all just talk."

She stressed the need for public funding and innovative finance, along with a well-defined role and expectations for the private sector, which she noted, is very much willing to participate.

Loss and Damage Fund

Additionally, Kaag lauded the UAE and the COP28 presidency for making substantial headway on the Loss and Damage Fund on the event's first day. "It sends a potent message about the expectations and ambitions for this round of COP28 negotiations," she said.

She observed that while climate change inflicts significant losses, those most affected by its consequences are often not the ones who caused them.

Call to Action

The Dutch Finance Minister urged all stakeholders to ramp up their efforts to cut carbon dioxide emissions and to facilitate the transition to cleaner energy sources. In conclusion, Kaag's comments underscore the importance of financial commitment and collaboration in the global fight against climate change. With the COP28 platform, she believes that big strides can be made in securing the necessary funding and political will to move forward.

FAQ's Who is Sigrid Kaag and what role does she play in COP28? Sigrid Kaag is the Finance Minister of the Netherlands and she plays a critical role in COP28, emphasizing the importance of funding for climate-oriented projects and the significance of this particular conference in the fight against climate change.

What was Sigrid Kaag's statement regarding the importance of COP28? Sigrid Kaag underscored the significance of COP28, highlighting it as a historical juncture where it is still feasible to reverse the course of climate change, despite significant delays in meeting the set objectives and targets.

What is the role of Finance Day in COP28 as explained by Sigrid Kaag? Sigrid Kaag explained that Finance Day is a significant event at COP28 because, while ideas, innovation, technology, and country planning are all essential, without the necessary funding, they are all just talk.

What did Sigrid Kaag say about the Loss and Damage Fund at COP28? Sigrid Kaag lauded the UAE and the COP28 presidency for making substantial progress on the Loss and Damage Fund on the first day of the event, stating that it sends a potent message about the expectations and ambitions for this round of COP28 negotiations.

What was Sigrid Kaag's call to action at COP28? Sigrid Kaag urged all stakeholders to ramp up their efforts to cut carbon dioxide emissions and facilitate the transition to cleaner energy sources. She stressed the importance of financial commitment and collaboration in the global fight against climate change.
United in the Face of Climate Change: Egypt and UAEs Pioneering Alliance at COP28

Groundbreaking AISEG Technology Unveiled at COP28: The Future of Clean Energy

The AI Smart Electromagnetic Generator (AISEG), a revolutionary innovation set to transform the clean energy landscape, has been unveiled at COP28 in Expo City Dubai. The result of four years of intensive research by South Korea's SEMP Group and Abu Dhabi's Global Solutions for Project Management, AISEG is a testament to the power of research and technological advancement. This invention is ready for commercial deployment, promising to contribute significantly to global efforts towards achieving Net Zero by 2050.

International

-Oneindia Staff

By Oneindia Staff

At the 28th COP28 in Expo City Dubai, a pioneering innovation that is set to transform the clean energy landscape has been unveiled. The AI Smart Electromagnetic Generator (AISEG), a collaborative effort by South Korea's SEMP Group and Abu Dhabi's Global Solutions for Project Management, is a testament to the power of research and technological advancement. The groundbreaking invention, a culmination of almost four years of intensive research by the SEMP Research Institute, is now ready for commercial deployment.

AISEG: A Vision of Sustainable Power

Visitors to the Green Zone at COP28's Energy Transition Hub can witness the firsthand experience of this revolutionary technology. Situated in the Sustainability District, it serves as a demonstration site for this game-changing innovation that aligns with global aspirations to decrease emissions and achieve Net Zero by 2050, in compliance with the Paris Agreement's objectives.

Zakeya Alameri, the Founder and CEO of Global Solutions for Project Management, emphasized the commitment to finding effective solutions to combat climate change, as the world converges in the UAE for COP28. The central focus is on exploring all possible avenues to reduce the 22 Gigatons of emissions and facilitate a fair, responsible, and well-managed energy transition.

Alameri further highlighted the role of AISEG technology in addressing the rapidly growing power demand without resorting to fuel or emissions. She underscored the significance of this technology in shaping the future of clean energy, reflecting a journey marked by innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering dedication to a sustainable future.

Innovation for a Carbon-Free Future

Woohee Choi, CEO of SEMP Research Institute Co., Ltd., expressed his pride in presenting their invention, the world's first non-rotation type power generation system, at COP28. The platform has become a global stage for discovering ways to expedite the journey towards Net Zero emissions. Choi stressed that AISEG is a testament to their commitment to innovative decarbonisation, providing efficient energy while minimising carbon emissions. Displaying the technology at COP28 also underscores the robust technological and bilateral partnerships between the UAE and South Korea.

AISEG: A Breakthrough in Energy Generation

AISEG stands as the world's first successful system that produces a higher efficiency output compared to input power. Holding over 70 patents in 60 countries, AISEG is a game-changer in the energy sector. It has no rotating parts, doesn't emit carbon or heat, is self-powered, and boasts exceptional efficiency. Its compact size and near-infinite lifespan make it a comprehensive solution for the world's energy requirements.

In alignment with the core pillars of COP28 UAE, AISEG plays a crucial role in climate mitigation efforts, offering a green energy solution that significantly reduces GHG emissions. It aids in global adaptation by facilitating a shift towards renewable energy sources, particularly in regions where it is most challenging.

AISEG's primary focus is on mitigation and adaptation. However, it also indirectly addresses loss and damage by aiming to minimise environmental harm and societal impacts from non-renewable sources. As such, it is a beacon of hope for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for all.

FAQ's What is the AI Smart Electromagnetic Generator (AISEG)? The AI Smart Electromagnetic Generator (AISEG) is a pioneering innovation set to transform the clean energy landscape. It's a collaborative effort by South Korea's SEMP Group and Abu Dhabi's Global Solutions for Project Management, resulting from almost four years of intensive research. This invention is ready for commercial deployment.

Where was the AISEG technology unveiled? The AISEG technology was unveiled at the 28th COP28 in Expo City Dubai. It was showcased in the Green Zone at COP28's Energy Transition Hub situated in the Sustainability District.

What is the role of AISEG technology in the energy sector? AISEG technology plays a crucial role in addressing the rapidly growing power demand without resorting to fuel or emissions. It is significant in shaping the future of clean energy and is a game-changer in the energy sector with its high efficiency output and non-emission features.

What are the features of AISEG? AISEG is the world's first successful system that produces a higher efficiency output compared to input power. It holds over 70 patents in 60 countries, has no rotating parts, doesn't emit carbon or heat, is self-powered, and has exceptional efficiency. Its compact size and near-infinite lifespan make it a comprehensive solution for the world's energy requirements.

How does AISEG contribute to climate mitigation efforts? AISEG plays a crucial role in climate mitigation efforts by offering a green energy solution that significantly reduces GHG emissions. It aids in global adaptation by facilitating a shift towards renewable energy sources, especially in challenging regions. It primarily focuses on mitigation and adaptation, also indirectly addressing loss and damage by aiming to minimise environmental harm and societal impacts from non-renewable sources.
United in the Face of Climate Change: Egypt and UAEs Pioneering Alliance at COP28

UAE Leads the Charge in Climate Action and Green Jobs at COP28

At the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), the Just Transition pavilion was inaugurated by UAE's Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar. The pavilion, a platform for sharing best practices in climate action, highlighted the UAE's efforts in promoting green jobs and a sustainable future. It shed light on the country's climate change mitigation strategies and the role of green jobs in the UAE's labour market. The event was organized by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the European Commission.

International

-Oneindia Staff

By Oneindia Staff

The Just Transition pavilion, an innovative platform for sharing experiences and best practices in climate action, was recently inaugurated by Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, the Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation. The pavilion, which is part of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), has been organized by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the European Commission. The event is being hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

A Step Towards A Sustainable Future

Dr. Al Awar stated that the pavilion is a crucial step towards a roadmap for a more eco-friendly future. He further emphasized that the UAE has always been a pioneer in climate action, engaging actively in endeavours to mitigate climate change. The country's environmental initiatives, including the Net Zero 2050 strategy, which conforms to the Paris Agreement, are integral to its sustainable growth strategy.

UAE's Efforts for Green Jobs

The Minister drew attention to the Ministry's continuous efforts to implement labour market policies aimed at creating and preserving a conducive environment for talent from across the globe. He explained that the Ministry's approach to the green job market is also identical, with a continuous evaluation of future labour market trends.

Dr. Al Awar shed light on an in-depth study conducted by the Ministry on green jobs in the UAE labour market. The objective was to define green jobs, develop suitable assessment and evaluation methods, identify gaps, and propose action plans. These efforts are aimed at driving a Just Transition and building a more sustainable future considering the global impact of climate change on workers and labour markets.

UAE's Green Job Market

He disclosed that approximately 12% of the jobs in the UAE's private sector are green jobs. He further highlighted how the UAE has enhanced its reputation as a key partner and an ideal host for this year's COP, which is expected to encourage significant advancements in global climate action, thanks to the diverse topics and notable initiatives introduced at the conference.

Dr. Al Awar reiterated the UAE's commitment to promoting a climate-friendly Just Transition by implementing pioneering legislation that addresses the predicted social and economic challenges of climate change. The aim is to ensure a successful journey into the future, as combating climate change continues to be a high priority on the UAE's agenda.

Meeting with the International Labor Organisation

Dr. Al Awar had a meeting with Celeste Drake, Deputy Director-General of the International Labor Organisation, in the presence of several senior officials from the International Labor Organisation's Regional Office and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. In the meeting, the ILO team was updated on the newest legislation in the UAE's employment sector, including initiatives like the Workers' Protection Programme, Unemployment Insurance Scheme, and the Voluntary End-of-Service Savings Scheme.

Drake expressed her appreciation for the "productive cooperation" between the General Secretariat of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue and the International Labor Organisation in preparing studies and pilot projects. She stated her eagerness to participate in the seventh edition of the ministerial meeting of the Abu Dhabi Dialogue, scheduled for next February, coinciding with the World Government Summit.

In conclusion, the Just Transition Pavilion and the efforts of the UAE in promoting green jobs and climate action exemplify the nation's commitment towards creating a sustainable future. As the world faces the impending challenge of climate change, the UAE's proactive approach serves as a beacon of hope and a model for other nations to follow.

FAQ's Who inaugurated the Just Transition pavilion? Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, the Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, inaugurated the Just Transition pavilion.

What is the purpose of the Just Transition pavilion? The Just Transition pavilion is an innovative platform for sharing experiences and best practices in climate action. It is a crucial step towards a roadmap for a more eco-friendly future.

What initiatives has the UAE taken in response to climate change? The UAE has taken several environmental initiatives in response to climate change, including the Net Zero 2050 strategy, which conforms to the Paris Agreement. These efforts are integral to the country's sustainable growth strategy.

What are the UAE's efforts regarding the green job market? The UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation is continuously evaluating future labour market trends and implementing policies aimed at creating and preserving a conducive environment for talent. The Ministry has also conducted an in-depth study to define green jobs and propose action plans for a sustainable future.

What was discussed in the meeting between Dr. Al Awar and the International Labor Organisation? In the meeting with the International Labor Organisation, Dr. Al Awar updated the ILO team on the newest legislation in the UAE's employment sector, including initiatives like the Workers' Protection Programme, Unemployment Insurance Scheme, and the Voluntary End-of-Service Savings Scheme.
Israeli troops fought fierce battles with Hamas in south Gaza, forcing Palestinian civilians, many already displaced from the north, to search for refuge elsewhere.
The state of Saxony-Anhalt has said people who do not recognize Israel's right to exist cannot become naturalized citizens. The eastern state's interior minister said Germany's other 15 states should take similar steps.
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The BSF inspector general (IG), Jammu Frontier, D K Boora, emphasized the importance of the man behind the machine in handling conflict situations. He stated that the BSF is fully capable of countering a Hamas-like attack by terrorists along the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir. The BSF IG also mentioned that technology alone cannot ensure security and that the man behind the machine plays a crucial role. He addressed the issue of ceasefire violations by Pakistan and revealed that they have suffered significant losses in retaliation.
Republican Rep. Russell Fry of South Carolina is calling for more answers almost a year after a Chinese spy balloon was shot down in his district.
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A suspended member of a Maryland hate crime task force has been reinstated by the state's Democrat attorney general despite her past expressed antisemitism.
While the president has backed Israels right to defend itself since the Hamas terrorist attack, his team has increased the pressure to minimize civilian casualties in Gaza.
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The Justice Department also said it had begun investigating the murder of more than 30 Americans by Hamas fighters during the Oct. 7 attack in Israel.
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In a recent United Nations hearing, it has been reported that Hamas allegedly targeted women's genitals during the Oct 7 massacre.
According to local press reports an international tender notice has been launched in Madagascar for the provision of satellite services.

Regulator ARTEC reportedly launched the call late last week. It requests applications for licences from operators interesting in setting up and operating public satellite communication networks.

There seem to be two drivers for this move. One is the government decision to open up the telecommunications sector: a decree was published earlier this year aimed at fully liberalising the telecommunications sector, encouraging competition and reducing telecommunications costs. Measures have apparently been put in place to encourage operators to invest.

The other driver is coverage. Coverage of this island country off the southeastern coast of Africa  the world's fourth largest island  with a population of some 29 million has long been a challenge.

The Ministry of Digital Development, Digital Transformation, Posts and Telecommunications (MNDPT) has made clear its desire to extend connectivity to remote areas where terrestrial infrastructure is limited.

There will be a governmental benefit too: satellites could make it possible to offer global coverage of the territory and thus connect the country's administrative buildings.

According to TeleGeography's CommsUpdate, the April 2023 liberalisation measures introduced two additional licences  a satellite licence authorising the deployment of public GMPCS, broadband satellite or VSAT networks; and a unified licence permitting an operator to offer the full range of fixed, mobile and data services via all authorised networks, as well as to lease infrastructure and provide wholesale capacity.

Interested parties will have until 28 March 2024 to make their submissions for the satcoms licences.
WASHINGTONIsrael has assembled a system of large pumps it could use to flood Hamass vast network of tunnels under the Gaza..

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Eurasia Review 28 Dec 2023

By Dejan Azeski



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Pressure grows on UK over British Museum treasures as Netherlands returns major colonial artefacts

Posted by Editor on December 6, 2023 - 12:46 pm

Pressure is mounting on the UK to return the contested treasures of the British Museum after the Netherlands gave back six valuable artefacts stolen from Sri Lanka during the colonial period.

The Netherlands, which colonised Sri Lanka in the early 17th century, returned the artefacts looted 250 years ago from the Kandy kingdom  the last independent monarchy of Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka has suggested that there is more to come from other countries, including Britain.

The colonial-era treasures, including a cannon inlaid with gold, silver, and bronze known as the Lewkes cannon, a ceremonial sword, and two guns have been now displayed in the Colombo National Museum of Sri Lanka, a statement from the Netherlands embassy said.

The objects were wrongfully brought to the Netherlands during the colonial period, acquired under duress or by looting.

Now, after more than 200 years abroad, six Sri Lankan artefacts will be physically returned to Sri Lanka during a two-day event at the Colombo National Museum on December 5 and 6, the Dutch embassy said.

Sri Lanka expressed gratitude to the government and citizens of the Netherlands for the return of the artefacts, said Buddhasasana religious and cultural affairs minister Vidura Wickramanayake.

Mr. Wickramanayake said they have started negotiations with other countries as well like Greece and Britain to bring back the looted treasures.

There are more to come. Not only from the Netherlands but also from other countries like Great Britain. So we have already started negotiations and I hope they will be fruitful very soon, Mr Wickramanayake said.

The repatriation of the artefacts comes two years after the Netherlands agreed to return the artefacts on request of the Sri Lankan government.

These objects represent an important cultural and historical value and they are back in Sri Lanka where they can be seen by the Sri Lankan public, said Dewi Van de Weerd, ambassador for international cultural cooperation.

The value of returning these objects is important because it is about addressing historical injustices.

Britain is also home to some of the rarest looted artefacts from Sri Lanka, including a gold-plated statue of the goddess Tara that is currently in the British Museum in London.

In recent decades, the British Museum has frequently encountered criticism over its right to hold ancient treasures, with some asserting that numerous relics in its collection were essentially looted during the colonial heyday of the British Empire.

The issue has sparked a diplomatic row between Britain and Greece over the ownership of the Parthenon Sculptures, known as the Elgin marbles.

It escalated last month after both sides blamed each other when prime minister Rishi Sunak unexpectedly cancelled a meeting with Kyriakos Mitsotakis after the Greek counterpart said he planned to raise the question of their return.

Some of the other high profile contested items include the Benin Bronzes of present-day Nigeria, a collection of at least 23,000 Chinese relics, Rosetta Stone sought by Egypt and two moai originating from Rapa Nui.

(Source: Independent  By Shweta Sharma)
3 Oaks Gaming has emerged as a trendsetting force in iGaming content development, with Slotegrator highlighting its successful strategies. This fast-growing company demonstrates the key pillars of success essential for standing out in the competitive iGaming market.

The Rise of 3 Oaks Gaming in the iGaming Industry

3 Oaks Gaming, a rapidly growing iGaming content developer, has made significant strides in the industry. Slotegrator, a leading software and business solution provider, sheds light on the key factors contributing to 3 Oaks Gaming's success.

Global Expansion: The Key to Wider Reach

3 Oaks Gaming's transformation into a worldwide sensation with over 70 top-tier games across Europe, South Africa, and Latin America exemplifies its commitment to international expansion. The last 18 months have been pivotal, marked by the formation of crucial partnerships and the establishing of a foundation for further global ventures.

Uniqueness: A Cornerstone of 3 Oaks Gaming's Strategy

One of 3 Oaks Gaming's strengths is creating unique games with breathtaking visuals and innovative mechanics that captivate players. Their focus on high-quality art and engaging maths, coupled with unique promotional tool mechanics, allows them to cater to a diverse audience with various cultural themes.

Effective Marketing Strategies

The company's robust marketing strategy, which includes online advertising, social media, and partnerships with casinos, has been instrumental in its success. Their Unique Selling Proposition (USP) revolves around offering visually appealing and mathematically sound games.

Leveraging Partnerships for Broader Impact

Partnerships with aggregators like Slotegrator, REEVO, BetConstruct, Salsa Technology, and Digitain have been crucial in amplifying 3 Oaks Gaming's reach. These collaborations provide access to expansive casino networks, offering a larger stage for showcasing their games.

Responsible Gaming: A Core Principle

3 Oaks Gaming emphasizes responsible gaming, preventing underage gambling, and protecting vulnerable players. They aim to create games that are not only fun and exciting but also promote responsible gambling practices.

Innovation and Ambition: The Future of 3 Oaks Gaming

According to Yuri Muratov, Director of Business Development, innovation and a passion for elevating offerings are at the core of 3 Oaks Gaming's ethos. The company has ambitious plans for global expansion, with Europe being a key focus. They are also eyeing other regions, including Belgium, Romania, Portugal, the Netherlands, Greece, Switzerland, Sweden, Malta, and the UK, where they have applied for a gambling license.

North American Expansion and Licensing Strategies

North America is also on 3 Oaks Gaming's radar, marking their presence on four continents. The upcoming years will focus on license acquisition and expanding their reach while continuing to forge collaborations to deliver exceptional games to a broader audience.

Get the full interview with Yuri Muratov, Director of Business Development at 3 Oaks Gaming, by clicking on the following link provided by Slotegrator.

About Slotegrator

Slotegrator, established in 2012, has been a frontrunner in providing software and business solutions for online casino and sportsbook operators. The company specializes in software development, game content integration, and payment systems. Slotegrator's portfolio includes a wide range of casino content and offers consulting services in gambling license acquisition and business incorporation.

About 3 Oaks Gaming

Founded in 2021, 3 Oaks Gaming has quickly become a prominent distributor of iGaming content for regulated markets worldwide. The company offers engaging online casino games with a focus on high-quality slots that combine innovative mechanics and a distinct graphical style, ensuring a memorable gaming experience for players.
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has suspended the casino license of Liinoo Invest Europe Limited, owner of BoomBang VIP Casino, effective December 1, 2023, due to several regulatory violations under the Gaming Compliance and Enforcement Regulations.

MGA Takes Decisive Action Against Liinoo Invest Europe Limited: The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) has reported the suspension of the casino license held by Liinoo Invest Europe Limited, the company behind BoomBang VIP Casino. This suspension, effective from December 1, 2023, is a response to multiple regulatory violations under the Gaming Compliance and Enforcement Regulations (S.L. 583.06).

Violations Leading to Suspension

The suspension is based on specific provisions of the regulations, including:

The authorized person (Liinoo Invest Europe Limited) is bankrupt, insolvent, or is being wound up.

The company needs to meet commitments to players promptly, or there is a belief that such failure is imminent.

The MGA, in its discretion, has determined that there is a material and sufficient reason for suspending the authorization.

Liinoo Invest Europe Limited holds authorization with reference number MGA/B2C/291/2015. The suspension is issued under these regulations to ensure compliance and enforcement within the gaming sector.

Obligations Following Suspension

Following the suspension, Liinoo Invest Europe Limited must collaborate with the MGA, adhering to specific guidelines outlined in the Suspension document. The company must also allow the MGA to conduct necessary data extraction procedures.

Appeal and Legal Framework

The decision is made by Regulation 12 of the Gaming Compliance and Enforcement Regulations and is subject to appeal under article 43 of the Gaming Act (Chapter 583 of the Laws of Malta).

BoomBang VIP Casino's License Category

BoomBang VIP Casino's license falls under Type 1, which encompasses games of chance played against the house, where outcomes are determined by a random number generator (RNG). Approved verticals under this license include casinos, slots, scratch cards, lotteries, secondary lotteries, and virtual games.

Conclusion: Ensuring Compliance and Player Safety

The MGA's decision to suspend Liinoo Invest Europe Limited's license highlights the authority's commitment to maintaining a fair and responsible gaming environment in Malta. This suspension serves as a reminder of the stringent regulatory requirements in the gaming industry and the importance of compliance for protecting players' interests. As the gaming sector continues to evolve, such regulatory actions are vital for ensuring the integrity and sustainability of the industry.

About MGA

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) started its activity in 2001 to regulate and supervise the gaming industry in Malta. The MGA's primary focus is to ensure that gaming services provided within its jurisdiction are fair and transparent for players. Additionally, the MGA is committed to combating crime, corruption, and money laundering in the gaming sector while also taking measures to protect minors and vulnerable players from the potential harms of gambling.
Steven Sahiounie, journalist and political commentator

In the immediate aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attack on Israeli soldiers and civilians, the US President Joe Biden and all the American allies repeated the same mantra on cue: 'Israel has the right to defend itself'. Much later, the UN human rights expert pointed out that in this instance Israel does not enjoy that right, as the territory they are attacking is a territory they control and are responsible for.

As the millions of people across the globe took to the streets in support of the Palestinian cause of freedom, an end of occupation, and protesting the Israeli attacks on Gaza against unarmed civilians, the western leaders had to stop and re-think their old attitudes, which were proving to be far out of step with the world of today, especially the younger global population that demand justice. Due to social media, people can see videos and commentary from the scene. Western media is not inside Gaza and they report from safe-distance locations in Israel; however, Arab media reporting in English from the ground in Gaza have brought the conflict close to people on the internet.

The European protests were huge and well organized. London had 350,000 people in the streets, even though the Home Secretary had called them 'Hate Marchers' and was fired for her contempt. Europe is closer to Gaza than the US, and while the US has been traditionally kept captive of the Israeli lobby, AIPAC, the European public has been supportive of the Palestinian quest for freedom. Many Europeans feel that the European Union has been blindly following US foreign policies that have proved disastrous in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, and Syria. The US State Department employees, under Secretary of State Antony Blinken, called out the war crimes and violations of international law by the Israeli government.

The staff are career professionals and diplomates who voiced concern at US double-standards by the Biden administration, which puts a hold on weapons transfers from US to any country that will likely use the weapons in human right violations. Instead of holding up weapons to Israel, they were fast-tracked immediately even though it was clear they were committing war crimes, human rights violations, and clearly operating against international laws. Josh Paul resigned from the State Department in an act of conscience.

At the White House, the staff have become younger and more diverse than in past generations. These professionals complained to Biden about what Israel was doing in Gaza. Biden and Blinken had to re-think their position of blind approval of Israeli military actions. Biden and Blinken started peppering their statements about Gaza with references to the decades-old UN resolution for a two-state solution. As the moments progressed, we then heard the same phrases repeated by western leaders aligned with the US. We heard the Arab leaders echo the call for the two-state solution, and China, Russia, Brazil and South Africa as well. Experts are pointing to a generational change, or revolution in the minds of people who believe there is an alternative to occupation, and there should be no alternative to freedom and autonomy for the Palestinian people who have suffered since 1948 under a brutal military occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, the largest open-air prison on earth. The Israeli government under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is the most extremist and racist is Israeli history. Some of the officials have called the Palestinians 'animals', others have called for mass deportations to ethnically cleanse the land, and some have claimed Jews are a superior race. Israel likes to claim they are the only democratic country in the Middle East, but their policies against the Palestinians are undemocratic. Americans who are aged 70 and 80 might be content to hang on to outdated notions, but the younger Americans are questioning how can Israel be considered to share American values, while having a two-tiered justice system that the UN has deemed to be an Apartheid state.

Biden has sent a request to the Senate on October 20 to remove all restrictions on US weapons stockpiled in Israel itself. Democratic Senator Chris Murphy, who sits on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told CNN on Sunday he was open to placing conditions on any aid to Israel, with the aim of reducing civilian casualties in Gaza. "We regularly condition our aid to allies based upon compliance with US law and international law. And, so, I think it's very consistent with the ways in which we have dispensed aid, especially during wartime, to allies, for us to talk about making sure that the aid we give Ukraine or the aid we give Israel is used in accordance with human rights laws," Murphy said. Murphy added, "Benjamin Netanyahu believed that you could ignore the Palestinians, that you could try to squash their desires for a state and, ultimately, that would bring peace to the region into Israel. That's just not the case."

He went on to call for a Palestinian state as the only way to long-term peace. Senator Bernie Sanders listed out demands for the Israeli government in order to receive US aid. Demanding "an end to the indiscriminate bombing," a "right of displaced Gazans to return to their homes," "a freeze on settlement expansion" in the West Bank and no long-term occupation of Gaza by Israeli forces, as well as a commitment to engage in peace talks "for a two-state solution in the wake of the war." The road towards a final solution to the Palestinian suffering will likely be long, but it looks like some road signs are being placed along the way pointing to a beginning of the journey.

No one knows how many miles it will take, and what detours and roadblocks may spring up along the path, but the two-state solution is the plan. The only thing certain is that this huge effort at peace in the Middle East will need the leadership and support of the White House and US Congress. With the 2024 election less than one year away, it will need the Biden administration, and any future President's full support across all party lines. Peace in the Middle East will have to be an American project with global coordination.

Steven Sahiounie is a two-time award-winning journalist
Electricity provider PacifiCorp has agreed to pay $299 million to victims of the 2020 wildfires in southern Oregon to end a lawsuit that could have cost it far more.

PacifiCorps decision to settle comes after the utility lost a similar lawsuit in June for wildfires in other parts of the state.

The size and scope of Tuesdays announced settlement is unprecedented in Oregon and caps three years of legal wrangling that has left many fire victims in financial and emotional limbo, unable to rebuild or move on from the devastation. The Archie Creek fire devastated communities along the North Umpqua River east of Roseburg, one of several massive blazes that broke out statewide amid the historic Labor Day 2020 windstorm.

Some 463 individual plaintiffs, comprised of about 220 families and individuals, sued PacifiCorp, Oregons second-largest electric utility, alleging the utility was negligent and responsible for causing the Archie Creek blaze that destroyed their homes and properties.

The $299 million settlement amounts to an average of nearly $646,000 per plaintiff represented in the lawsuit, though their individual claims, and thus their payouts, vary substantially. Victims will pay attorneys fees out of their settlements, which typically amount to between 30 to 40% of the settlement amount in similar wildfire litigation, and portions of the settlement may be taxable. No money has changed hands yet.

For PacifiCorp, which announced the settlement in a regulatory filing first reported by Bloomberg, the agreement avoids a trial that was scheduled for Jan. 30 on behalf of the individual Archie Creek plaintiffs. And it shields the company from potentially far larger jury awards that could have included non-economic and punitive damages. The company has not settled the claims of seven timber companies who lost property in the same fire. That trial is still scheduled.

In its filing, PacifiCorp said the settlement amounts are consistent with amounts previously estimated and established in accounting reserves for the Labor Day 2020 wildfires.

PacifiCorp has settled and is committed to settling all reasonable claims for actual damages as provided under Oregon law, the company said in a statement posted on its website. These settlements are in addition to settlements with other individuals and businesses, and hundreds of insurance claims PacifiCorp settled where homeowners and businesses have received insurance payments for their real and personal property damages and alternative living expenses.

The plaintiffs lawyers declined to comment on specifics but heaped uncharacteristic praise on the company for settling.

I want to congratulate the new CEO and the General Counsel of PacifiCorp for stepping up and doing the right thing by their ratepayers who lost their homes during the Labor Day 2020 fires, Mikal Watts, the plaintiffs co-lead counsel, said in a statement. Todays settlement is the result of one thing  good lawyers and good corporate leadership.

In fact, plaintiffs lawyers in this and other wildfire litigation have long bashed the management team of the local subsidiary, Pacific Power, for being asleep at the switch before and after the fires broke out and for since pursuing a strategy of legal obstructionism instead of promptly settling with victims. Theyve sought legal sanctions against the company for seeking to withhold what it knew about the origins of the fires through a privileged investigation, denying access to key employees work and investigations after the fires, and limiting the questions they answered in depositions by asserting what plaintiffs alleged were expansive applications of attorney-client privilege.

Cindy Crane, a 28-year veteran with the utility, was appointed in September as the new chief executive of the holding company for Pacific Power and Rocky Mountain Power, PacifiCorps Utah-based subsidiary. Robert Julian, the other lead counsel for the plaintiffs, said Cranes appointment marked a turning point in the settlement discussions.

PacifiCorp is part of Warren Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway conglomerate. The company still faces numerous lawsuits related to the 2020 fires, including a trial scheduled for January for seven timber companies that lost property in the Archie Creek fire and whose claims were not part of Tuesdays settlement.

The Archie Creek settlement also comes months after the utility lost a jury trial in Multnomah County for its role in four other wildfires that broke out around the state on Labor Day 2020. The jury found the companys conduct was grossly negligent and willful, and awarded 17 named plaintiffs in the class action suit $90 million in damages, including non-economic and punitive damages.

PacifiCorp has vowed to appeal that verdict. Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Steffan Alexander has scheduled three trials early next year that will determine damages for 20 additional plaintiffs and a group of timber companies in the suit, and he has ordered the company and more than a thousand remaining plaintiffs to enter a formal mediation process after those trials are complete  a process that could dramatically increase PacifiCorps financial liability in that lawsuit.

PacifiCorp said in another recent financial filing that certain government entities have also informed the company that they are contemplating legal actions. Total damages sought in lawsuits filed in Oregon related to the 2020 fires is about $8 billion, it said, excluding any doubling or trebling of damages included in the complaints.

PacifiCorp took the unusual step this fall of trying to financially protect itself from wildfire lawsuits going forward. Its asked state regulators to limit its liabilities to only actual damages and prevent juries from awarding any future victims non-economic or punitive damages. No decision has been made.

 Ted Sickinger; tsickinger@oregonian.com; 503-221-8505; @tedsickinger
Water levels had receded enough Wednesday morning to allow traffic through U.S. 101 between Seaside and the junction with U.S. 26, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Heavy rain will continue at times through Wednesday and ODOT warns travelers to be prepared for closed lanes, flaggers and some local detours. Oregon 6 is still closed due to high water near its intersection with U.S. 101 in Tillamook. A detour is in place for that closure.

Other coastal areas reporting high water early Wednesday include:

Oregon 53 at milepost 14.5

U.S. 101 at milepost 97.8 about a mile south of Neskowin

Oregon 153, 2 miles east of intersection with Salmon River Highway (Oregon 18) from mileposts 2-4 in Amity

Sections of U.S. 101 near Waldport

OR 229 at milepost 9, south of the intersection with U.S. 101 is closed in both directions

Visit this link for a list of roads closed in Washington County: https://wc-roads.com

Travelers should expect delays, closures and detours until the water recedes. Check TripCheck.com for updates.
Is the long-running saga of the five broken undersea cables linking Vietnam with the world now over? Regional reports suggest it may be, at least for now.

Repair efforts have apparently now finished on all five broken undersea cables linking Vietnam with the world, according to a representative of an ISP in Vietnam this week who was not identified.

The Intra-Asia (IA), SMW3, and Asia Pacific Gateway (APG) cable systems were restored in late May and September. SAAG (Asia, America Gateway), a 20,000-kilometre submarine communications cable system connecting Southeast Asia with the United States across the Pacific Ocean via Guam and Hawaii, was fixed in early November. Finally The AAE-1 (Asia-Africa-Euro 1) cable, which broke down on September 27, was fully restored in late November.

But, says news resource VietNamnNet, over the next few years the country will have at least four and as many as six new undersea cables. The Vietnam Telecommunications Authority (VNTA) suggests the new cables will be available by 2030.

We reported earlier this year on the imminent arrival of two of these: SJC 2 and ADC. State-run Viettel hopes to use the ADC cable by the end of the year. Another state-owned telecommunications company, Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group, plans make use of the SJC 2 cable.

Last month saw FPT Telecom, a subsidiary of Financing Promoting Technology, the largest information technology service company in Vietnam, approve an investment initiative for the ALC undersea cable project.

Cable issues have been in the news for some while in Vietnam. As regular readers may be aware, four (out of five) undersea cable routes used by Vietnamese carriers were experiencing issues as long ago as January this year.
Two unlicensed dogs involved in a Tuesday morning attack that killed a 6-year-old boy and left his caretaker injured have been euthanized, according to the Portland Police Bureau. Multnomah County Animal Services has custody of a third dog found in the home.

When police arrived at the caretakers home in the 1800 block of Northeast 112th Avenue in the Parkrose Heights neighborhood they found the boy, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

Police determined the injured woman was the owner of the dogs, described as Great Dane-mastiff mixes. The boy they attacked was her friends grandson.

The Police Bureaus child abuse team and its homicide unit are investigating the case. Before Tuesday, Multnomah County Animal Services had received no complaints about dogs at the womans address and had no record of dispatching officers there, according to county spokesperson Alicia Mendez. The dogs were not licensed, Mendez said.

 Tom Hallman Jr

503-221-8224; thallman@oregonian.com; @thallmanjr

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A man who had been out of prison a month when he bludgeoned a Portland camper to death and burned his body in a pit in 2021 has been sentenced to 16 years in state prison.

Aaron D. Christopher had just finished serving a sentence of four years and two months when he set up camp near the railroad tracks running along Interstate 84 in the Madison South neighborhood.
A Palestinian flag mural that a student and teacher painted on the walls of a Beaverton High classroom was removed late last week after several students complained it made them feel unsafe and unwelcome.

In an email to families Friday, Principal Andrew Kearl said the mural would be painted over but the school would add a Palestinian flag to a display of many nations flags in the schools cafeteria, meant to represent the countries of origin of the schools nearly 1,500 students.
There is exactly one time in a rhinos life when people may look upon it and say, Aww, what a cute rhino!

That time, of course, is babyhood, and good news for the people of Portland: For one little rhino at the Oregon Zoo, that time is now.

According to a press release, the zoos female eastern black rhino Jozi gave birth to the little gray bundle of joy on Dec. 4 at about 9:30 p.m. Both Jozi and the baby are doing well, the zoo said, in their out-of-view maternity den. They are doing so well, in fact, that zoo keepers have yet to do a veterinary check and have not determined the sex of the calf.

The most satisfying thing for me is to see Jozi taking such great care of her baby, said Chad Harmon, who supervises the zoos rhino area, in the press release. These first few days are especially critical, so were being very cautious and giving them as much quiet time as possible.

Read more: Oregon Zoo elephant expecting a baby that wont be born until 2025

Newborn rhinos generally weigh about 100 pounds but by the time guests are allowed to see this new rhino in person, the baby will be even bigger than that. The weather will have to get warmer, the zoo said, before mom and baby can start to explore the outside Rhino Ridge area.

Jozi and the new babys father, King, are part of the critically endangered eastern subspecies of black rhinoceros, making the new baby a significant event not just for the Oregon Zoo but for the entire species.

Poaching and the illegal wildlife trade have wiped out 96% of the worlds black rhino population, said Kelly Gomez, who oversees the zoos Africa area, in the press release. In South Africa alone, were losing almost a rhino a day. Hopefully, their story can help inspire a new chapter in the conservation of this incredible species.

 Lizzy Acker

503-221-8052; lacker@oregonian.com; @lizzzyacker

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The strange and ongoing dispute between Washington County and the states public health agency over impaired-driving diversion programs hit a new snag with a judge once again accusing an Oregon Health Authority employee of lying and the agency of making up their own rules as they go.

The latest dustup stems from the Oregon Health Authoritys possession of 178 boxes of files from an outside contractor providing probation-type oversight of people in court-mandated diversion programs or on court-ordered supervision as part of impaired-driving cases.

Last week, Washington County Circuit Judge Brandon Thompson issued another sternly worded order, the second one this year, instructing the Oregon Health Authority to review the files and return the ones that involve pending cases or those in which the defendant is the subject of an arrest warrant.

The agency so far has refused, requiring subpoenas and court orders for each one.

Robb Cowie, a spokesperson for the health authority, said the agency has received the order and is conferring with the Oregon Department of Justice.

The rolling disputes broadly deal with the courts oversight of people convicted of impaired driving and sent to diversion programs, where they may be referred to substance abuse treatment. The health authority licenses and sets standards for treatment programs.

The first dustup centered on whether courts are entitled to know if defendants have complied with treatment or the terms of their probation.

Internal memos show that health authority officials last year told treatment providers and the organizations that serve as conduits to the courts that they dont have to use any particular disclosure form when communicating with courts about criminal defendants progress and that they must comply with federal and state laws regarding the disclosure of alcohol or drug records.

Thompsons latest order relates to the health authoritys handling of nearly 200 Washington County diversion files after the outside contractor that manages diversion changed owners. The files track defendants progress and compliance with court-ordered diversion.

Thompsons order describes the health authority in 2021 obtaining the files from a company that facilitates diversion programs, then failing to give them back. The order says the health agency lacks the legal authority to access and possess the records.

In his order, the judge zeroed in again on the testimony of Marisha Elkins during a July 14 hearing. Elkins previously worked as the health authoritys driving-under-the influence-of-intoxicants coordinator and now holds the position of crisis systems strategist for the agency.

Thompson accused Elkins of lying under oath during an earlier hearing and in his latest ruling reached a similar conclusion, writing that Ms. Elkins came into this court for a second time and lied under oath.

Over the summer, Elkins testified about how the agency came to possess the files; Thompson made clear in his order that the health authority should never have had the files to begin with.

This court finds it troubling that a second hearing and a second opinion are necessary on this matter, Thompson wrote. ... (T)his the second opinion this court has written ruling that OHA is violating the law and that Ms. Elkins lied under oath.

Thompson threatened to hold the health authority in contempt if it fails to comply by Feb. 1. He said he would impose a $5,000-a-day fine if the agency fails to meet the deadline.

-- Noelle Crombie; ncrombie@oregonian.com; 503-276-7184; @noellecrombie

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Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek has made reexamining school funding a high priority, (Kotek calls for changes to Oregon school funding, spending in wake of bitter Portland teacher strike, Nov. 28).

Now its time for a sales tax. Before everyone balks at the thought of a sales tax and complains about adding a sales tax on top of the existing income and property tax, I propose that we cut the existing income tax and property tax in half and replace it with a sales tax that will be used only for funding schools. I think this is equitable for everyone, since the people who are spending the most are probably those with kids. They should be the ones who pay the most for funding schools. Lets make a sales tax part of the solution for funding schools.

Ben Sias, Portland

To read more letters to the editor, go to oregonlive.com/opinion.
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.

Reproductive justice news continues to arise from the state of Ohio, this time in the criminal case of a Black, Ohio woman who miscarried in her home.

Despite expert testimony advocating the pregnancy was not viable, the case went viral this weekend when a judge decided that she will face a grand jury. This is another story contributing to the trend of pregnancy-related criminalization continuing across the country.

Brittany Watts of Warren, Ohio was charged last month with attempted abuse of a corpse after she miscarried at 22 weeks and flushed the remains down the toilet, causing a clog in the pipes. An autopsy report and testimony from a forensic pathologist say that the (fetus) died before leaving the birth canal, and that Watts had visited the hospital twice before and was turned away.

This fetus was going to be non-viable. It was going to be non-viable because she had premature ruptured membranes  her water had broken early  and the fetus was too young to be delivered, forensic pathologist Dr. George Sterbenz said in his testimony.

With 26% of pregnancies resulting in miscarriage, many of which happen at home, Watts story potentially forecasts what expectant mothers and birthing people will continue to face in the wake of shifting reproductive health laws.

This 33-year-old girl, with no criminal record, is demonized for something that goes on every day, defense attorney Traci Timko said during the hearing.

As the story went viral, people criticized the viability of criminalizing miscarriage.

Do folks not know that women miscarry in toilets every single day? You better start building bigger jails if youre sending us all to jail for flushing the toilet, Jessica Piper, the executive director of Blue Missouri said on Twitter.

On X, formerly Twitter, doctors, lawyers, professors, and more expressed their frustration with the laws criminalizing Watts.

As a doctor & woman who has 3 wonderful living children & multiple pregnancies that didnt make it to term, I find this insane. Miscarriages in toilets, D&Cs with non-viable pregnancies- its all traumatic, scary & heartbreaking. No one should be tried for this! #Womenshealthcare, wrote @DrKateAckerman.

Reproductive rights advocates have long said that the overturning of Roe would contribute to cases like this, but criminalization related to pregnancy loss is not a new phenomenon.

A 2022 investigation by the Marshall Project found that in the last 23 years, there were 20 felony cases in Alabama, 14 in South Carolina and 10 in Oklahoma related to miscarriage or stillbirth. Additionally The Rise of Pregnancy Criminalization 2023 report documented 1,400 cases of pregnancy-related criminalization from 2006 to 2022, showing that birth and pregnancy loss are more likely to result in criminalization than abortion.

Fetal personhood laws are a major contributing factor to why people face legal issues for pregnancy loss. These types of laws extend the legal rights of a living person to a fetus or embryo before the point of viability, according to Time.

This ideology has been used to escalate attacks and ultimately gut abortion rights over the years and its been embedded in state laws and judicial decisions, Lourdes Rivera, president of Pregnancy Justice, told Reckon in September.

So, how do you handle miscarriage?

Miscarriage is extremely common, especially during the first trimester. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists estimates that 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, and can be emotionally distressing for many who face it. After 20 weeks, pregnancy loss is considered stillbirth.

Most pregnancy loss occurs during the first trimester, in which there are three main options to remove the pregnancy tissue left in the uterus, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). You can allow the tissue to pass on its own, medication, or dilation and curettage, which is a surgical procedure.

According to Liverpool Womens NHS Foundation Trust, miscarrying into a toilet and flushing is a common way to dispose of the remains, though Reckon could not locate data documenting exactly how often this occurs.

Asmist the maternal health crisis, families are seeking options outside of the traditional healthcare system to navigate birth.

Doulas provide emotional and physical support to a birthing person during and after pregnancy, according to WebMD. Full spectrum doulas specifically assist pregnant people through each stage or potential stage of pregnancy: from preconception to birth to postpartum and miscarriage, and some can even assist in abortion. Doulas are not medically trained, and certification requirements to practice vary by state.

CDC data shows that Black women are almost three times more likely to experience pregnancy-related death than white women. In Ohio, Black birthing people also face additional disparities, like a preterm birth rate that is 1.5 times higher than other babies, according to the March of Dimes.

Most of my clients are first time moms, but they know about the Black maternal health crisis and the black infant and maternal mortality rates, so thats what inspires them to get doulas, said TeJah Green, full-spectrum doula and founder of Rainbow Perinatal Services, LLC in Columbus, Ohio.

Green said Watts story is shocking, even from her perspective as a birth worker.

Im gonna be honest, I dont know what she could have done in that situation,said Green. Youre just essentially just re-traumatizing her by one, villainizing her, and then not only that, you literally arrested her for a natural thing, a natural occurrence.

A tweet by lawyer Ben Cramp was quoted by users sharing stories of their experience miscarrying into a toilet, some sharing that they too flushed the remains.

Twitter users shared their miscarriage stories online.Annabel Rocha

A 2022 Glamour UK article touched on the guilt and trauma felt after flushing a miscarriage.

Flushing after experiencing the loss of a pregnancy on the toilet is a natural reaction to a shocking event. There is nothing to feel shame or guilt about. Many women have been through this experience as, at the time, it feels like the only thing they could do, wrote Pippa Vosper.

In the Watts case, she was turned away from the hospital twice. According to a 2022 NPR article, care for a miscarriage in an emergency room can be hard to come by, and this has been exacerbated in states in which doctors can face penalties under abortion restrictions.

Emergency medicine physicians arent trained in managing miscarriage and dont see it as something they should own, Dr. Sarah Prager, a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Washington and a co-author of the guidelines on miscarriage management for the ACOG, told the outlet.

According to the Kaiser Permanente, most early miscarriages  unless there are symptoms of heavy blood loss, fever or weakness  can be self-managed with over-the-counter-pain medication and menstrual pads to manage the vaginal bleeding that occurs for up to two weeks. ACOG recommends refraining from vaginal sex, using tampons or inserting anything into the vagina for at least a week to prevent infection and promote physical healing.

Green advises birthing people to be persistent in listening to their body and expressing their medical needs, including in traditional medical settings.

I would say try to advocate for yourself as much as possible, but I know thats hard for some people, said Green. Thats why I became a doula too.
Rescue crews recovered the body of a man believed to have been swept away and drowned in the rain-swollen waters of Johnson Creek in Southeast Portland on Monday. And on Tuesday, Washington County sheriffs deputies and firefighters recovered the body of a second man in a local creek, as flood warnings continue for northwest Oregon and the coast.

Medical examiners in Multnomah and Washington counties -- along with police -- are working to identify the identities of both men, as well as confirm their causes of death.

Portland Fire & Rescue spokesperson Rick Graves said initial reports from investigators suggested that the man who died in Johnson Creek might have been camping near the creek and fell in or might have been someone who was visiting the area to help people experiencing homelessness.

Portland Fire & Rescue received a call shortly after 7 a.m.  before sunrise  that someone had been swept away by the creek while clutching a couch cushion for floatation near the Southeast Tacoma-Johnson Creek MAX station, which is close to where Southeast Portland borders Milwaukie. Crews found what they believe is the couch cushion near a cluster of tree branches, sticks or other debris known as a strainer. Strainers are known to let water through but trap solid objects underwater.

Milwaukie police searched the creek using a drone, and rescuers from the Clackamas Fire District responded in boats. But the rugged waters flipped two boats  sending rescuers into the water, Graves said. The search for the man was called off, Graves said.

Then, shortly before 2 p.m., a property owner near the creek reporting spotting a body, which authorities determined to be the body of the missing man from earlier in the day, said Multnomah County Sheriffs Deputy John Plock. The sheriffs river patrol and dive team recovered the mans body around 4 p.m. Monday.

Its just incredibly dangerous right now, Graves said. And its going to do nothing but get more dangerous for the next 36 hours. The water is going to continue to rise.

Data posted by the National Weather Service showed the cubic feet of water flowing per second was more than 15 times the normal rate at the time man was swept away in Johnson Creek.

6 1 / 6 Johnson Creek Dave Killen / The Oregonian

Kristle Delihanty, founder of PDX Saints Love, a non-profit that offers aid to people who are living unsheltered, said every time severe rainstorms approach the Johnson Creek area her organization sends out weather alerts to clients, who help spread the word to others that its time to move to higher ground. When this latest rainstorm hit, crews visited the area under Southeast 92nd Avenue and Flavel Sreet, where the creek flows and people camp to stay out of the rain, to pass out tents and tarps and encourage them to move away from the water.

The message we try to get out to them is I know you think it looks like its far away, but its not. It can come in the night when youre sleeping and not aware, Delihanty said. We try to explain the dangers of being in a zipped up tent and trying to navigate yourself when the flooding comes up.

Delihanty said the number fluctuates over time, but well over 100 people live in the brush and trees along Johnson Creek from Gresham to Milwaukie. She said the numbers are higher immediately after people have been told to move on from their camps along city streets and sidewalks.

In Washington County, sheriffs deputies received a report of a body found in Bronson Creek near Northwest Anzalone Drive, east of Quatama Park and southeast of Hillsboro, at 10:20 a.m. Tuesday. Sheriffs deputies and firefighters from Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue responded to recover the body of a deceased man, who was entangled in some branches in the creek.

There were no visible signs of injury that would have caused the mans death, according to the Washington County Sheriffs Office. Authorities are investigating the possibility that he died by drowning, among other causes.

The Washington County Sheriff's Office provided this photo of authorities recovering the body of a man found in Bronson Creek near Northwest Anzalone Drive on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023.Washington County Sheriff's Office

It has rained more than 2.5 inches in the Portland area in the first four days of December. The coastal range and the Cascades have been hit even harder  with 2 to 6 inches in the 24-hour period from Monday morning into Tuesday. Precipitation and snow melt from unusually high temperatures mean rivers and creeks are moving fast.

Another 1 to 6 inches of rain are forecast in Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington on Tuesday into Wednesday. Flood warnings and advisories are in effect.

High waters closed U.S. 101 near Seaside Tuesday. Amtrak said on Tuesday that a landslide forced it to close all train service from Portland to Seattle until at least Thursday.

 Aimee Green; agreen@oregonian.com; @o_aimee
Amtrak said Tuesday that no passenger trains will be running between Seattle and Portland until Thursday because of a landslide. An atmospheric river has brought heavy rain, flooding and warm winter temperatures to the Pacific Northwest, closing rail links, schools and roads as it shattered daily rainfall and temperature records in Washington state.

The National Weather Service issued flood warnings in parts of western Washington, including in areas north and east of Seattle and across a large swath of the Olympic Peninsula.

Amtrak expects to resume Cascades service at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday. The Washington Department of Transportation said the landslide occurred north of Vancouver, Washington.

The wet conditions also brought warm temperatures to the region. At 64 Fahrenheit in Walla Walla in southwestern Washington, it was as warm as parts of Florida and Mexico, according to the NWS. Seattle reported 59 degrees F at 1 a.m. Tuesday morning, breaking its previous daily record high, the weather service said.

Atmospheric rivers, sometimes known as a Pineapple Express because the long and narrow bands of water vapor convey warm subtropical moisture across the Pacific from near Hawaii, delivered enormous amounts of rain and snow to California last winter.

On the Olympic Peninsula, the small town of Forks  whose claim to fame is being the rainiest town in the contiguous U.S.  saw its rainfall record for Dec. 4 more than double after it received about 3.8 inches of rain, the NWS said. By early Tuesday morning, it had recorded 4.7 inches of rain over 24 hours  more rainfall than Las Vegas has received in all of 2023, according to the agency.

About 100 miles further south, daily rainfall records were also broken in Hoquiam, which received about 2.6 inches of rain on Monday, the NWS said. Seattle saw its daily rainfall record surpassed on Monday after receiving 1.5 inches of rain, said Kirby Cook, science and operations officer at the NWS office in Seattle.

Well continue to see significant impacts, especially with river crests and rises on area rivers through Wednesday morning, he said.

A section of Washington State Route 106 was closed as rising water levels in the Skokomish River overflowed onto the roadway, state transportation officials said.

The NWS said it expected to see precipitation and temperatures climb to record-breaking heights in western Washington on Tuesday.

A landslide closed parts of a Seattle trail popular with walkers, joggers and cyclists, the citys parks department said. Crews were assessing the damage to the Burke-Gilman Trail and working on setting up detour routes.
Eric Stanton climbed into the cab of his semitruck at 11 p.m. Monday as steady rain fell near his Tillamook home. At the time, the water level of the nearby Wilson River flowed 5 feet below the dike near his house. When he returned from work around 10 a.m. Tuesday, water was trickling over from the river.

By 3 p.m., his house was surrounded.

I went from having a few of my porch steps visible to almost knee-deep water, Stanton said, watching the rushing river carry trees past his window.

Stantons house sits on a raised foundation. For now, the water has breached only the garage. However, meteorologists with the National Weather Service expect continued rainfall through Wednesday evening, further impacting the coast and the Portland area, where swollen creeks are believed to have killed two. On Tuesday, Amtrak halted passenger trains between Portland and Seattle due to a landslide.

Back on the coast, Stanton is cautiously waiting it out. Im getting kind of concerned about it, but right now Im just sitting back and watching my geese swim in the river in my backyard, Stanton said.

So far, 3 to 4 inches of rain have fallen in the coastal region near Tillamook, and Portland has recorded 1 to 1.5 inches since Monday. The National Weather Service forecasts another 1 to 2 inches of rain along the coast, and as much as 4 inches in higher terrains in the coast range in the next 24 hours, according to meteorologist Noah Alviz.

The Portland metro area can expect another inch of rain through Wednesday evening, said meteorologist Daniel Hartsock.

Already, one person was swept away and presumed drowned in Southeast Portlands Johnson Creek Monday, and another man was found dead in a creek in Washington County on Tuesday.

Rain from back-to-back atmospheric rivers has battered sections of the Oregon coast, forcing closures on sections of U.S. 101, from Seaside to the junction with U.S. 26. Several flood advisories are in effect across large portions of southwest Washington and northwest Oregon through Thursday.

Many Tillamook and Seaside businesses shuttered Tuesday, as did the Seaside, Tillamook and Neah-Kah-Nie school districts. Late Tuesday, the Tillamook and Neah-Kah-Nie districts said they would close again Wednesday.

Toni Perez, a hotel manager at Shilo Inns Tillamook, said the flooding came on quickly when she arrived for work Tuesday.

It came over the banks within minutes, Perez said. I sent all my employees home, and Im just watching the phone for people who want to check in to get out of the water.

Some RV park residents in the area have been calling the hotel throughout the day in case they have to evacuate, Perez said. No evacuations have been reported as of Tuesday afternoon.

Perez said there was a similar flood in Tillamook and along U.S. 101 last year, but that the water hasnt reached the halls of Shilo Inns since 1996. Shes hoping the inside of the hotel remains dry for her 21 guests.

I do not want to be a one girl bucket brigade, Perez said.

 Austin De Dios; adedios@oregonian.com; @austindedios; 503-319-9744

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Civil society organizations are raising alarms about the restrictions on access to public information contained in the regulation that the National Assembly is to approve in December to guarantee this constitutional right of Cubans. But, before publishing the Transparency and Access to Information bill, the regime had already made sure that it was the Ministry of the Interior (MININT) that would decide what citizens can know.

On October 26, two weeks before publishing the proposal of said law, and giving Cubans just one week to review it and send their opinions, decree-laws on Security and the Protection of Classified and Limited Information, and on The Development, Application and Use of Cryptographic Protection Devices and Services in the Sphere of Cryptography in the Republic of Cuba, were approved.

Attorney Edel Gonzalez Jimenez, a member of DIARIO DE CUBA, draws attention to the fact that both decree laws were approved right on the scheduled date, according to the legislative schedule set in June. Other legislation included on the schedule since 2019, however, has not yet been approved.

"The country's political leadership conceives of the issue as a priority, but not the development and honoring of denied and postponed individual freedoms and rights," says the lawyer.

An example of the above is the rule regulating the constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and demonstrate and to housing.

Through the two aforementioned decree laws, mainly the first, the regime specifies that it will determine what information is classified, in which case Cubans will not be able to exercise their right, cited in the Transparency and Access to Information Law, to seek redress through the courts when they are denied access to it.

One month has elapsed since the approval of both decrees, and neither has been published in the Official Gazette of the Republic.

A source close to the structures of the Cuban State informed DIARIO DE CUBA, on condition of anonymity, that the Decree Law on Security and the Protection of Classified and Limited Information identifies the Ministry of the Interior (MININT) as the body with the exclusive authority to inspect, control and indicate to any civil institution, or natural or foreign person legally domiciled in Cuba, public or private, what information is classified as secret, confidential or limited. It is also charged with sanctioning those responsible for legal breaches approved in this area.

"The rule is a way to enhance and update the old mechanisms, which severely affect the scope of the right to information that Article 53 of the Constitution claims to recognize," says Gonzalez Jimenez.

According to the information received from Cuba, the MININT continues to have the powers to issue rules and procedures on Security and the Protection of Official Information; to carry out inspections, audits and controls involving Security and the Protection of Official Information, including Cryptography and Computer Security. It is also empowered to promote the training of qualified personnel and to develop science and technology in the field of Security and the Protection of Official Information, Computer Security and Cryptography.

"These 'superauthorities' are what actually prevent Cubans from ever accessing the essential content, despite their right to information access, dissemination, criticism and opinion, given that almost everything is classified as secret or of limited social access. The Government and its agencies are tied, hand and foot, to the interests of the MININT, " explains Gonzalez Jimenez.

"At all state institutions there are statistical departments or data centers. These departments are 'visited' and systematically monitored by the Ministry of the Interior, by specialists who are trained to evaluate what type of information from each institution should be classified," says the lawyer.

"Divorce data, for example. The court system identifies it as public information, which can be accessed. A MININT official arrives, however, and says no, that, as a result of the possible manipulation of that statistical data by the empire, etc., etc., he orders or 'advises,' during an inspection visit, that the information must be classified."

"Automatically, he reports the incident; the president of the Supreme Court meets with the MININT's Directorate of Classified Information, and they make the decision. If they so decide, the information that had been public is then classified. The opposite can also happen: information that was kept secret becomes public if these people decide that it being in the public domain is no longer a danger."

"The MININT controls and has a monopoly over determining the data and information to be classified in Cuba. In fact, if there is information that is classified, and it is not encrypted, there are fines for the officials who are in charge of these departments."

"If the president of a court is obliged to generate information about crimes involving threats, and that information is secret and I know it is because criminal policy reports in Cuba are secret and he kept it as public information, and it was not encrypted, and did not appear in the database that the Ministry of the Interior designed for that, then that person is liable from a labor and administrative point of view. That attitude is considered a breach, and he may be subject to personal fines."

The lawyer points out that, although all countries have regulations governing the classification of information, "this process is minimal or exceptional, since they fully comply with the principle of maximum publicity. In Cuba, although the Transparency and Access to Information bill recognizes this principle, such recognition is purely theoretical."

"In practice, the opposite principle prevails: that of minimum publicity. In the democratic world courts are authorized to assess the real scope of this principle, and have the power to say that information classified as secret should not be because it violates the human right to access to information, and to order that it be made public. In Cuba, as a result of these decree laws that we have analyzed, the courts are not authorized to make that decision."
Portlands string of moderate-to-heavy rainfall days continues Wednesday as a stalled atmospheric river hovers over the region bringing river and urban flooding.

The National Weather Service says the front, which has been lingering in our area since Monday, is finally beginning to push southeastward, but very slowly.

As a result, urban flooding concerns will continue through Wednesday evening. Rivers across northwest Oregon will be full and swift and roadways covered in water in some locations. Several areas of U.S. 101 along the Oregon Coast have closed lanes and flooded roadways. Oregon 6 is closed where it meets U.S. 101 in Tillamook. Numerous flood warnings remain in effect with minor to moderate flooding expected.

There is also the possibility of landslides. Those who live near steep hillsides should remain alert for changes in conditions. The posted flood watch is in effect in southwest Washington and northwest Oregon through Wednesday.

Portland will see another wet day Wednesday with rain likely through the evening. The high temp will be near 55 degrees.

Snow levels will fall to about 4,000 feet later Wednesday evening, but the showery nature of the expected precipitation and the warm roads and surfaces mean only a few inches of snow is expected on pass level roads.

Once the current system moves out of the region it will open the door for a cooler and more showery system to arrive Thursday. Portland will see rain showers through the day, and a cooler high temp of about 49 degrees.

Snow levels will fall through the day to end up around 2,500 by the evening. The weather service says to expect accumulating snow along the pass roads but is finding it difficult to predict where the stronger areas of precipitation will be. Elevations above 3,500 feet may see anywhere from 4-14 inches of new snow by Friday morning.

Portland will get a slight break in the rain Friday with showers likely during the morning hours. Skies will be mostly cloudy, and the high will reach near 47.

Current extended forecasts are showing rain returning Saturday. Portland will see cloudy skies and a high of about 47 degrees.

A warmer system moving in later in the weekend will send snow levels up to about 6,000 feet, and daytime high temps in the valleys will be in the low 50s by Sunday.
New York, US (PANA) - Invoking a rarely used article of the UN Charter, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday called on the Security Council to press to avert a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and unite in a call for a full humanitarian ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militants
Tripoli, Libya (PANA)  An independent inquiry is needed to review failings in Libyan authorities management of catastrophic flooding in the east in September 2023, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Wednesday
Zanzibar, Tanzania (PANA)  Responding aggressively, simultaneously, and comprehensively is the only option for confronting todays intertwined development challenges around the world, according to President Ajay Banga of the World Bank
Photo: (Photo : by CDC on Unsplash)

Amid an alarming outbreak of pneumonia among children in Ohio, health experts across the United States and other parts of the world are observing a rise in cases of this lung infection. However, they emphasize that such increases are not unusual for this time of the year and advise against panic.

Pneumonia, a serious infection of the lungs, tends to peak during the fall and winter months, coinciding with the respiratory virus season. A recent outbreak in multiple schools in Warren County, Ohio, and surges in countries like Denmark, China, and the Netherlands have raised concerns.

However, health authorities state that there is no evidence to suggest that these incidents are interconnected or indicative of a wider spreading trend. Notably, children have been disproportionately affected by these outbreaks.

Seasonal Trends in Pneumonia: Understanding the Fall and Winter Surge

In the United States, experts reassure that the current pattern of pediatric pneumonia cases aligns with typical seasonal trends.

Dr. Mandy Cohen, Director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, noted in a recent press call that the current rates of pneumonia-related emergency department visits among children are consistent with previous years. Data shows that while there is a slight elevation in pneumonia rates among school-age children, these figures are comparable to those observed in pre-pandemic years.

Despite the general trend, Warren County in Ohio presents an exceptional case, with 145 reported pneumonia cases in children aged 3 to 14 since August. Symptoms have included fever, cough, and fatigue, but no deaths have been reported. The severity of these cases mirrors those in previous years, according to local health officials.

The outbreak in Ohio is attributed to common germs that cause pneumonia annually, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and mycoplasma bacteria.

Internationally, countries like China, Denmark, and the Netherlands are also experiencing increases in respiratory illnesses and child pneumonia cases. However, Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, confirms that there is no evidence linking these outbreaks to the one in Ohio or to a broader national or international trend.

Pneumonia, which can range from mild to severe, is caused by various agents, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi. In the U.S., common viral causes include the flu, RSV, and COVID-19. Bacterial pneumonia is often caused by pathogens such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae, particularly among children.

Read Also: Flu Surge Spreads: RSV Peaks, Ongoing COVID-19 Hospitalizations Prompt Health Official Warning

Mycoplasma Pneumonia: A Common Culprit in Child Pneumonia Cases

Mycoplasma pneumonia, a common cause of pneumonia in children, is sometimes referred to as "walking pneumonia" due to its generally milder symptoms and the higher activity level of patients. It is characterised by cycles of outbreaks in communities or geographical areas every few years, with no clear explanation for its periodic surge.

Understanding pneumonia symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms include fever, chills, cough with mucus, shortness of breath, fatigue, rapid breathing, chest pain, loss of appetite, and nausea. In severe cases, symptoms may worsen, necessitating medical attention.

Treatment for pneumonia varies based on the causative agent but often involves antibiotics or antivirals, along with supportive care. Most cases can be managed at home, but hospitalisation may be required in more severe instances. Vaccines are available for certain types of pneumonia, and health experts advocate for staying up-to-date on vaccinations, including the flu shot and COVID-19 booster.

In conclusion, while the current rise in paediatric pneumonia cases, both in the U.S. and globally, warrants attention, it falls within the expected seasonal patterns. Health officials encourage awareness of symptoms and preventive measures but reiterate that there is no cause for widespread alarm.

Related Article: Pediatric Pneumonia Surge in Ohio Sparks Concerns Amid Global Respiratory Upticks
One year ago, the Water Spirits were guiding me to make a change. I would uproot again and land in Glastonbury as the sacred steward of Chalice Orchard.

It was a big change and like all the other times they have guided me, I listened. They called me into sacred service in Avalon. So, I turned my life upside down. I sold my beautiful homestead in Oregon and arrived in Glastonbury a year ago. I am very lucky to have dual citizenship, but moving internationally is never easy. I knew this quite well, as this was not my first international move. In my mid-twenties, I lived in Okinawa Japan for almost 3 years. There are several differences with this international move though. The main one is that I am most definitely not in my 20s anymore. Another thing that made this move so difficult is that I was so rooted and grounded in Oregon. I thought it would be my forever home. The only reason I would ever leave was to live in England, Wales, or Scotland.

In the spring of 2022, I visited Glastonbury on a sacred pilgrimage. It was my 3rd time visiting this magical place and it wasnt quite the trip I had expected. The intense eclipse energy brought about extreme turmoil that would be the catalyst of change and bring about some of the most amazing moments in my life. It was a divine foreshadowing of what was to come. No matter how I look at it, the pilgrimage and what went down was fated. Read more about how I got to Glastonbury HERE.

To keep a long story very short by October I had learned that I would be leaving Oregon, selling my homestead, and moving into Chalice Orchard. Chalice Orchard is the former home and magical working space of Dion Fortune. The goal was to preserve and restore the property which had fallen into disrepair. The main house was intact enough to live in. However, it came with some very difficult surprises and every repair seems to bring forth 3 more!

During these past 15 months, I have been simultaneously ripped in half and rebirthed. It has been a constant dance of light and shadow from that fated trip. One moment being torn limb from limb to be left floating formless in the dark waters of the abyss and the very next experiencing some of the most amazing accomplishments and achievements of my life. Then moments later I was reminded that I am human and once again shattered into the abyss.

Arriving in Glastonbury



I arrived in Glastonbury with two suitcases and a sense of optimism. I immediately tended to things such as getting a bank account, a new cell phone, and changing the utilities into my name. I paid for the insurance and transfer fees on the car that was given to me. I then ventured out to London to retrieve my cats from the airport. As they had come just a few days after I did. I didnt make it 30 min outside of Glastonbury before I got a flat tire and was stuck on the side of the road. Thankfully Avalon Taxi rescued me, helped me change my tire, get a new one, and retrieve my cats from London. A few days later I started my first shift as a Keeper in Training at The White Spring. (More on this in the next blog)

Winter was quiet and nourishing. I spent it learning how to live in Glastonbury and cleaning out Chalice Orchard. Chalice Orchard was in worse condition than I had hoped or expected, but I also knew what I was getting myself into when I let the spirits guide me here. What I wasnt expecting was how much mold there would be and how hard it would be to renovate the place while living in it. This hadnt been a problem in my last renovations, but they were much larger than this little cottage. Perhaps I am just getting older and I am not as young as I was with the first two. Perhaps it is a combination of being older but also the roughest renovation I have done to date!

When I first arrived, I began by cleaning out years and years of life that the former owner left when she moved out. It was part of the agreement that she would take what she wanted and leave the rest. Again, the dance of blessing and frustration whirled around on the dance floor of life. The blessing was that I arrived with two suitcases to a home with a small couch, chair, pots and pans, kitchen gadgets, a little bed, and a big stack of tea. The downside was that there was so much more left and I am still clearing out things a year later!

Imbolc came and went, and it was beautiful! The snowdrops were the highlight of the spring. Ive never seen so many! They blanket a large swath of the land and is a beautiful sight to behold! I spent many days just enjoying the serene beauty of it all. We began working on one of the sheds in March. I call it a shed, but it is more than that. It is one of the sleeping rooms that Dion Fortune built for her work with the Temple of Inner Light. It was more difficult to preserve than we thought but we did it! There is still work to do but the doors and windows are being put back on this week!

This building was really interesting to restore. Below the rotten floorboards, we found ammonites but more curiously we found 4 hag stones. It seems like they were placed in the four corners, but I wasnt there when they were found to verify this. 2 of the 4 stones had hand-spun natural fiber tied through the holes. I cant help but think these were placed there by Dion Fortune herself. The fiber that was found knotted through the stones is old, natural, and obviously hand-spun. It is obvious that it is not modern in any way, and I assume she placed them there herself. Or perhaps it was someone else from the Temple of Inner Light. We may never know!

I took a quick trip to France with my dear friend Sarah (SpiritsCraft) and we lived a life of luxury in a French Chateau for a week. We toured southern France, saw many sacred springs, and visited an underground river and lake! (More on this in forthcoming blogs) Then the madness of summer in Glastonbury set in and I got to experience firsthand the crazy energy that is here. I am not complaining though! It was just intense and having been through it once I am better equipped to handle it this coming summer. I also got to meet one of my long-time mentors in person and began taking classes with her which was such a blessing!

We began rebuilding the back corner of the main house in July. I nicknamed this the hole of doom It was so broken down, rotten, and full of mold that I closed it off and never entered it until the renovations began. First, everything was hauled out, then all the rotten wood was removed. Then the roof was taken off. They began to rebuild the section by starting with a new frame for the floor. As this was done more ammonites were uncovered and now I have so many! Ive been obsessed with ammonites for years and to hand dig them out of the land I live on is amazing! The room was mostly completed in the fall.

There is still so much to do! We have a roof to replace, a bathroom to tear apart, and another small place in the house I nicknamed the tunnel of doom to gut out, strip down, and rebuild. We also have a second sleeping shed to work on. Right now, it is very fragile. It is being held up with ivy and trees and isnt safe to enter. That will have to be a project for the summer of 2024 though!

One year later I can say that I am proud of the work we have done so far. We didnt get as far as I thought we would. We had several delays and many surprises. Much of my time has been taken up by my sacred service to The White Spring. (More on this in the next blog) We have just begun to scratch the surface and have sooooo much more work to do. I am so excited to see where the next leg of the journey takes us!
Email has been around for over 50 years. Back in 1971, what is widely regarded as the first email was sent by Ray Tomlinson as a test of an email feature on Arpanet. Since no one had told him what the historical event was, he just sent it to himself and the content was something like QWERTYUIOP, he said in an interview in the late 1990s.

The protocol still used to send emails, smtp, has been around since 1981. The most common protocol for retrieving and managing email, imap, was introduced in 1988. The biggest technical changes since then are the addition of encrypted connections using ssl/tls.

At no time in the early decades of email was privacy and protection of personal data included in the development of the email technology itself. Encryption for those who need to send secrets came fairly early with PGP (1991) and s/mime (1995), but 30 years later it has still not taken hold in the market. Other developments have meant that email today has less privacy protection than ever.

Threats to and from

Email can pose a privacy problem on two completely different fronts, with completely different requirements for protective measures. One is the monitoring of your communication along the path between you and the recipient  that is, an external threat to your emails. But a far greater concern for most people today is the threat that comes from within the email  various techniques to track and spy on you via the technical content of the emails you open.

Mans Jonasson at The Swedish Internet Foundation. Internetstiftelsen/Kristina Alexanderson

How you are tracked

As soon as you open an email, the person who sent it can find out where you are, when and how many times you open it. All this is thanks to so-called tracking pixels  tiny images, just a single white pixel, generated on the senders server with a random file name linked to you. This is used in everything from spam to newsletters and one-off emails.

Mans Jonasson, internet expert at the Swedish Internet Foundation, points out that tracking via the scanning of images with unique file names linked to user profiles or accounts is not limited to tracking pixels.

It can be any image in an HTML email.

HTML emails also allow you to track recipients using other techniques such as cookies and dynamic content, says Cooper Quintin, senior public interest technologist at the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF).

Both Mans Jonasson and Cooper Quintin also talk about the other common way you are tracked: While tracking pixels and the like work passively, tracking links are an active type of tracking. There are basically two types of tracking links: links that dont go to the final destination at all, but reach it via a server that tracks the click and sends you on, and regular links with an additional tracking code after the address itself.

In both cases, these are links that you are asked to click on in the email, leading to, for example, a blog post or a product page in a shop. In the former case, the browser will first go to a completely different domain and move on. You can often see the page start to load several times before it finally opens, with several different addresses appearing in the address bar.

The second type takes you directly to the destination, but if you click on the address bar to see the full address, you can see that it is very long and contains long codes and other things at the end after the regular address. You can also see this by copying the address and pasting it into the address bar instead of clicking on it.

Without images, some emails become unreadable. Foundry

Stop tracking

To avoid being tracked by tracking pixels and other tracking images, there are two basic methods. You can either turn off HTML emails altogether and open all emails as plain text, or you can turn off the automatic loading of remote content (of which images are the most common type).

Turning off the automatic loading of images is the best, most concrete example of simple protection if youre worried about being tracked, and its done automatically on suspected spam in Gmail and many other clients, says Mans Jonasson.

Cooper Quintin of the EFF. Pamela Palma/EFF

Cooper Quintin recommends the more drastic option of turning off HTML emails altogether. One advantage of this over stopping the loading of images is that it also prevents other potential security flaws in the handling of HTML, so it provides some protection against malware and hacking. But on the other hand, it makes many emails such as mailings with offers that you actually want to receive not work properly, so it is a balance between privacy protection and benefit.

As many users today have switched off the automatic loading of images, some marketers have chosen to send emails that contain hardly any plain text. Almost all content is placed in images, and a text near the top says something like, Does this email not look right? Open in browser instead, with a link.

Its a trend Ive seen [] that you have to load images to read the email because all the text is in images, says Cooper Quintin.

To prevent tracking in these cases, theres not much you can do on your own. It is not possible to disable image scanning and only scan individual images by clicking on them, for example. If the images are links and you have not switched off HTML emails, you can of course click on them, but then it is probably a tracking link.

Effectively washing outbound links is difficult and tricky, because you need to know in advance which ones are being used for tracking and it will never be 100 percent effective, and it risks breaking legitimate links, just like any other filtering on the internet.

There are a few companies that are actively working to prevent email tracking. Apple users have access to a technology called Privacy Protection in Mail which protects against both active and passive tracking. The service scans all images and other data on Apples servers so that the sender cannot see your IP address and when you opened the email. It also scrubs away tracking code from many providers, such as Google, Facebook, and Microsofts ad-saving codes.

Subscription-based email provider Hey also has several technologies that stop tracking. Like Apple, all images are loaded from the companys servers rather than directly from your devices, and Hey automatically removes tracking pixels and other tracking from a long list of known trackers, plus any images and other content that follow typical tracking patterns (such as one-pixel-sized images).

Encryption and surveillance

So far, its been all about the email threat. But what about the threat to email, like mass surveillance? The only way to fully protect yourself from any form of surveillance is with full-strength encryption, where only you and the recipient have the keys to unlock the contents of your messages. However, this type of encryption has never been widely adopted for email.

Solutions like PGP, GPG, and s/mime are complicated to set up and use. Both sides must create key pairs and exchange their public keys, and get an email client that supports the technology. This is complicated enough on a computer but almost impossible on a mobile phone, where most people check their emails today.

I asked Mans Jonasson and Cooper Quintin whether it is even worth trying to get started with PGP as a private person.

Honest answer: No, says Mans Jonasson.

PGP turns out to be incredibly difficult even for IT security experts, not to mention ordinary users. PGP is not the best solution for encrypted communication and I think its better to prioritize getting others to start using Signal, WhatsApp, ProtonMail and other forms of [total range encrypted] communication, replies Cooper Quintin.

Both experts also point out that the common perception that email is not encrypted is, as Mans Jonasson says, a truth with modification.

Much of the email traffic today is encrypted via TLS/SSL. Email protocols were originally designed to be unencrypted, and for a long time all email traffic on the internet was completely unencrypted, but today Gmail, Outlook, and the other big giants are encrypted, at least from server to server. And in the longer term, almost 100 percent of email traffic will certainly be encrypted.

The traffic between users devices and the email servers is almost always encrypted, and since most people today have their email hosted by Google or Microsoft, Cooper Quintin says this often means that emails are encrypted all the way.

If youre a Gmail user and you email another Gmail user, the email will never leave Googles servers.

Major providers like Gmail and Outlook also encrypt emails when they are sent between the companies servers, so with few exceptions, emails you send will be encrypted all the way from you to the recipient. However, the companies handling the email can see the content, and also scan all emails for malware, child pornography, and spam. If the messages were fully encrypted, no such scanning could take place.

According to Cooper Quintin, this means that the threat to your privacy is that the police can, for example, request your emails during a criminal investigation, so you might not want to send things via email that you dont want to hear read out during a trial.

The bottom line is that Signal, WhatsApp, Imessage, and other messaging services with full-strength encryption are better for exchanging secrets between friends, but other than tracking for marketing purposes, regular users dont need to be particularly worried about email.

Not loading images in unknown emails and not clicking on links in such emails goes a long way, says Mr Jonasson.

This article was translated from Swedish to English and originally appeared on pcforalla.se.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), Opoku-Ahweneeh Danquah, has, during the convergence of the global community at the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference (COP28), acknowledged the need for a balanced discourse on the challenges and opportunities inherent in the transition towards a net-zero economy, particularly in Ghana and other emerging oil countries.



Delivering to an audience at COP28 in the United Arab Emirates, O-A Danquah unveiled the complexities of Ghanas petroleum sector, outlining the nuances of its energy landscape and highlighting challenges along with key strategic opportunities for the fossil fuel sector as it navigates the global energy transition.



Foremost among the challenges is the reduction of financing from international institutions, a move that reverberates significantly within Africas oil and gas industry. The GNPC boss highlighted the urgency of finding alternative sources of support, recognizing that the sectors vitality hinges on securing funding from diverse channels.





Addressing this financial conundrum, Mr. Danquah pointed to ongoing solutions as the Africa Energy Bank initiative. This locally driven initiative not only exemplifies a call for increased financing from within the continent but also underscores the strategic imperative of self-sufficiency. By garnering indigenous financial support, Ghana aims to fortify its energy sector against external financial shocks.



Ghanas ambitious pursuit of universal electricity access encounters the energy trilemma, emphasizing the delicate balance between reliability, affordability, and sustainability. O-A Danquah stressed the need to leverage the nations oil reserves strategically. The sector, he underscored, should not only serve as an upstream energy wellspring but also as a catalyst for broader societal benefits, aligning with the nations social and economic development goals.



Citing the looming risk of leaving petroleum assets stranded in the so-called energy transition he emphasized, data-backed decisions, aligning them with global climate goals to ensure a responsible and sustainable approach to asset management.



He noted the challenge of the premature dismantling of fossil fuel-dependent infrastructure; thereby necessitating a measured approach.



Avoiding economic repercussions and regional inequalities, therefore, becomes paramount, whilst reflecting the delicate balance required in steering towards a greener future.



In the upstream partner selection process for oil and gas development, Mr. Danquah underscored the importance of caution. Aligning with entities that may not share Ghanas unique vision towards a sustainable future would impede the transition and compromise the nations energy sovereignty.



According to the GNPC CEO, integrating low-carbon projects into GNPCs portfolio signifies a proactive approach to balance risk exposures and explore diversified opportunities.



This strategic move positions the Corporation to navigate the evolving energy landscape effectively.



The energy transition poses challenges but also provides avenues for job creation. Mr. Danquah highlighted the potential for skilled workers from the fossil fuel industry to seamlessly transition into the renewable energy sector, fostering economic growth and stability.



It is important to recognize that reducing emissions and embracing greener and responsible practices positions fossil fuel companies at the forefront of environmental stewardship. Energy companies that align with broader environmental goals stand as pioneers in ushering in a cleaner and more sustainable energy future, he stressed.



In conclusion, O-A Danquah said GNPC recognizes the multifaceted nature of Ghanas energy transition path and remains committed to navigating these challenges with strategic initiatives. He said the opportunities outlined underscore the potential for the petroleum sector to play a pivotal role in Ghanas sustainable and competitive future.



As the world collectively addresses the climate crisis, GNPC stands poised to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable energy landscape.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Astute Journalist, Kwesi Pratt has slammed the Ghana Education Service (GES) over the reporting date for first-year Senior High School students.



According to a GES statement, all first-year students were to report to their various schools on Monday, December 4.



"Parents, students and the general public have therefore been reminded to take note that the reporting date for first-year students is December 4, 2023 as indicated on the Placement form," the statement issued by the GES on Saturday, December 2, said.



The schools are however to vacate on December 21 and reopen in January next year.



"Per the academic calendar, there would be Christmas break on the 21st of December 2023 and resume on the 3rd of January to continue academic work till March 5th 2024," GES emphasized.



Discussing this matter on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo", Kwesi Pratt found the GES directive insensitive to the plight of parents whose children have gained admission into the Senior High Schools.



He wondered how the Education Service expects parents to cough up money to send their children to school on December 4 only for them to return home on 21st of the same month.



To him, this means the students are going to school to virtually do nothing, hence blasting the GES for providing such a limited period for the parents and their children.



"What sort of trouble is this? So, pratically, the students are going to school and will vacate within 2 weeks...Just imagine living in Accra and your children going to school at Navrongo, how much is transport fare alone? Let's place this aside. We have all gone to school before. When you open school, what is the first week used for. The first week is not for serious academic studies. You all know that the first week is for weeding, sweeping, get used to the school environment and so on...So, if you are going to open school for two and half weeks, effectively, the period for instruction is only like one week. Why are we disturbing the children like this?", he fumed.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The Office of the Attorney General (AG) and Minister for Justice has said it will appeal against the four-year and six-month custodial sentence imposed on galamsey kingpin, En Huang also known as Aisha Huang.



On Monday, December 4, the High Court in Accra presided over by Justice Lydia Osei Marfo delivered her judgment on En Huang and handed her both a custodial sentence and a fine of GHc48k.



The decision of the judge to impose the sanctions under the revoked Mining and Mineral Law Act 900 instead of the new law Act 995 has raised some eyebrows.



A day after the judgement, Godfred Yeboah Dame, the Attorney General said though they applaud the decision of the High Court to impose a sentence under the revoked law, his office would test the law by filing an appeal.



Whilst applauding the efficiency of the justice delivery system witnessed in the trial of Aisha Huang, the Attorney-General will however test the soundness of the decision of the trial court to punish the accused person under Act 900, by filing an appeal at the Court of Appeal, against the sentence in order to ensure that the new sentencing regime imposed by Act 995 is applied to the accused person.

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Source: starrfm









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The Member of Parliament for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has strongly criticized President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo's decision to decline assent to the Witchcraft and two other bills.



Francis-Xavier Sosu decried the president's refusal, labelling it as "very retrogressive and smacking of bad faith."



The bills in question are the Criminal Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2022; the Criminal Offences Amendment Number Two Bill, 2023; and the Armed Forces Amendment Bill.



In response to the president's letter explaining his decision, Sosu expressed astonishment, particularly regarding the assertion of constitutional infractions.



He highlighted that both bills had passed through consensus at committee and plenary levels, and their rejection at this stage was perplexing.



"It is quite strange that at this last stage, the President would say that the bill has violated some Constitutional provisions. Once a bill has been admitted and has gone through all the processes and passed, it has become an act of Parliament. And no provision in the Constitution says that when an act has been by Parliament, the President can choose not to assent to the act on grounds that that act or its enforcement will in some respect have a charge on the Consolidated Fund, he said.



Sosu emphasized the misinterpretation of Article 108 by the president, asserting that the bills, aimed at addressing societal issues affecting vulnerable members, were wrongly rejected.



So, the president misconstrued article 108 when he gave that as a basis to refuse an assent and it is quite retrogressive and unfortunate. Unfortunate because we are talking about a social problem that is destroying people, the life of most vulnerable people of our society  elderly women, widows, marginalised, he said.



He stressed that the rejection was "retrogressive and unfortunate," especially given the bills' importance in combating human rights abuses.



Sosu criticized the president's failure to provide specific reasons and proposed amendments within the constitutionally mandated 14 days, opting for a blanket statement instead.



He highlighted the bills' international recognition during the Universal Peer Review in Geneva, where Ghana's Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, cited them as progressive measures addressing human rights abuses.















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Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, Member of Parliament for the Effutu constituency in the Central Region, has vehemently dismissed claims suggesting the sale of the Ramsar site in Winneba for lithium mining.



According to him, these allegations are coming from the NDC in the constituency.



Responding to the allegations during a press conference, Afenyo-Markin stated, "The NDC in my constituency has come out with a serious allegation to the effect that government officials and my office sat unconcerned and got the sacrage forest of Afuttu where we go for deer hunting, the place has been sold for mining of lithium. I simply want to say that this allegation is false and never true."



He further emphasized that the Minerals Commission issued a statement two years ago, indicating that no application for mining in the forest had been received.



Afenyo-Markin firmly asserted, "There is no such thing."



Meanwhile, Effutu residents took to the streets to express their dissatisfaction over the alleged potential sale of the Ramsar site for mining purposes.



Clad in red apparel, the concerned residents highlighted that the contested site is crucial for their annual Aboakyire festival, particularly in deer hunting.



They voiced concerns that selling the land could jeopardize the Aboakyire festival, a sentiment echoed by their demonstration.



The residents issued a warning, stating their intent to halt the operations of the mining company, as they believe the exploration would disrupt the reserve that has been a part of their community for several years.







Source: ghanaweb.com









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The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has been elected to lead the African Network of Cybersecurity Authorities (ANCA), a body established by Smart Africa to improve cybersecurity coordination across the African continent.



The African Network of Cybersecurity Authorities (ANCA) comprises a number of African cybersecurity authorities and agencies from different geographical and linguistic areas, with the aim of setting up a platform for exchanges and cooperation between its members and making Africa's voice heard in its dealings with partners around the world on cybersecurity matters.



ANCA currently comprises only 17 members representing African countries that have established dedicated National Cybersecurity Authorities. The countries include Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Congo Republic, Djibouti, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Morocco, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo and Tunisia.



At the 2nd meeting held on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, in Accra on the margins of the Global Conference on Cyber Capacity Building (GC3B), Ghana was elected to Chair this Network with the Kingdom of Morocco being confirmed as the Vice Chair. The position of the Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and Smart Africa Secretariat will constitute the Bureau of the ANCA, which will be responsible for the governance structure of ANCA, the bodys action plan, and advocate and represent the interests of the members.



The election of Ghana to lead this body is a further manifestation of Ghanas growing leadership on the continent with respect to cybersecurity matters. On November 29, Ghana hosted over 800 delegates from over 100 countries across the globe who participated in the first-ever Global Conference on Cyber Capacity Building (GC3B). The two-day event themed Cyber Resilience for Development was organised by the Cyber Security Authority, Global Forum on Cyber Expertise (GFCE), the Cyber Peace Institute, the World Bank, and the World Economic Forum and was hosted by the government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Communications & Digitalisation.



The Conference brought together a diverse group of high-level decision-makers and practitioners from Governments, international organisations, the private sector, civil society, and academia. A major highlight of the conference was the outdooring of the Accra Call for Cyber Resilient Development by the organisers with more than 40 institutions endorsing the document at the end of the two-day event.



Ghana's significant progress in cybersecurity development is evidenced in its current ITU ranking. The 2020 Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) report of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) scored Ghana's cybersecurity development 86.69% on the metric showing major progress from a rating of 32.6% in 2017.



The score placed Ghana 3rd in Africa behind Mauritius and Tanzania, a major leap from the 10th place attained in 2017. Globally, Ghana moved from the 86th position in 2017 to 43rd place.



The Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority, Dr Albert Antwi-Boasiako who will serve as the Chair of the Network outlined Ghanas vision for ANCA which includes providing leadership on cybersecurity matters on the African continent. Priorities outlined by the inaugural Chair of the Network, include the establishment of the governance structure for the network for effective engagements, growing the membership of the network from the current number of 17 countries, setting up a platform for operational exchanges and practical cooperation among members, exploring funding models and partnerships for cybersecurity development in member countries and across the continent, and contributing to Smart Africas flagship initiatives as the continental advisory body on cybersecurity matters as well as articulating Africa's voice on cybersecurity matters in global discussions, among others.



SMART Africa



The SMART Africa initiative is a commitment made by African Heads of State and Government to promote sustainable socio-economic development on the continent. It aims to transform Africa into a knowledge economy by providing affordable access to broadband and utilising Information and Communication Technologies.



The initiative was launched at the Transform Africa Summit in 2013, where seven African countries adopted the Smart Africa Manifesto. Since then, the initiative has gained support from all 53 African countries, with a total of 39 countries currently participating.



The Smart Africa Alliance, which includes various organisations and stakeholders, is responsible for implementing and monitoring the manifesto. The initiative is based on five pillars, including policy, access, e-government, private sector/entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.



These pillars are supported by four enablers, including innovation, communications and advocacy, capacity building, and resource mobilisation. The ultimate goal of the Smart Africa Manifesto is to promote economic growth and job creation in Africa.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Bank Hospital has become the first private hospital in Ghana to conduct kidney transplant. The hospital last week performed two successful kidney transplants on two male patients. Dr. Charlotte Osafo who is the Medical Director of The Bank Hospital, led the team of medical experts comprising Nephrologists and a group of Transplant Surgeons from Indiato accomplish this feat.



Dr. Chalotte Osafo is a renowned nephrologist and has previously led Ghana's first successful kidney transplant at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital back in 2008, which involved three patients. Her unwavering dedication has brought hope to countless kidney patients, an accomplishment that resonates deeply with the recent milestone achieved at The Bank Hospital.



The procedure adopted was the Laparoscopic surgical procedure also known as keyhole surgery which was performed on the donors. This advanced surgical procedure is a minimally invasive procedure that allows surgeries to be performed without having to make large incisions on the skin.



One of the beneficiaries of the successful kidney transplant, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the medical team. With joy he said, "I am happy for this second chance and very grateful to my donor. I am glad the surgery went well and I look forward to my successful recovery.Knowing that I can reclaim my life without having to seek healthcare outside Ghana says a lot about the quality of care available here, especially at The Bank Hospital.



Dr. Vijaya Rajakumari, the lead Transplant Surgeon from India lauded Dr. Charlotte Osafo for her admirable passion for her work and thanked her and the hospital for providing them with all the support they needed to successfully perform the surgeries. She also applauded the team for triumphantly carrying out a plasma exchange procedure which was needed for one of the patients; a first of its kind procedure to be performed in Ghana.



Dr Charlotte Osafo while addressing the media thanked the board and directors of Bank of Ghana and The Bank Hospital for their support in making the surgeries possible. She also extended her heartfelt gratitude to the hospital medical team for their unconditional support during the entire process and expressed her desire for the legal framework surrounding deceased organ donation to be expedited to help save more lives.



In the spirit of giving hope, The Bank hospital has set up a foundation for the purposes of conducting research and undertaking preventive and treatment programs for kidney disease related issues.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Ghana and Korea have agreed to develop a strategic partnership to curb the growing menace of misinformation and disinformation in the country.



This came to light when Minister for Information, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, received the Secretary General of the Korean National Commission for UNESCO, Kyung-Koo Han in his office on Wednesday, December 6, 2023.



During the meeting, both parties discussed collaborative efforts to tackle the rising tide of misinformation and disinformation that are increasingly becoming one of the major threats confronting the security and development of both countries.



This comes on the back of a recent National Conference on Disinformation and Misinformation, where a 7-point communique was collectively agreed upon by political parties, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), media representatives, and development partners.







The plan, currently in development, is slated to be finalized by the end of the year and will incorporate a variety of strategies including maintaining ethical standards in media, encouraging fact-checking in public conversations, supporting high-quality journalism, and promoting civic education.



Expressing delight over the longstanding diplomatic ties between Korea and Ghana, Mr. Han cited the Bridge Project's, one of the youth-centered Korean programmes which aims to help young people develop insights and skills needed to bridge the gaps between people of divergent cultural heritages by fostering greater intercultural awareness and understanding.



He said there are ongoing talks for Ghana's potential hosting of the Documentary Heritage Workshop in a move that will further strengthen the countrys efforts to archive its heritage materials.



This, Minister Oppong Nkrumah assured the Korean delegation of a strong collaboration, ensuring both countries reap the benefits of this enduring relationship, particularly in areas of mutual interest such as education and culture.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Francis Asenso-Boakye, the Minister for Works and Housing, has affirmed the nation's dedication to global initiatives aimed at decarbonising the building and construction sector in a bid to tackle climate change and its repercussions on individuals, communities and livelihoods.



This commitment was emphasized during his national statement at the second Ministerial Meeting on Urbanization and Climate Change, held as part of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in Dubai, UAE on December 6, 2023. The event was co-hosted by the COP28 Presidency, UN-Habitat, and the UN Climate Change High Level Champions.



Ghana pledges its support for the Coalition for High Ambition Multilevel Partnerships (CHAMP) and the Urban Opportunity Fast Forward Initiative (UFFI) for accelerated access to climate finance for sustainable urbanisation. By joining these initiatives, we anticipate valuable support in advancing our urban resilience agenda, he said.



He added, as we engage in this global alliance, Ghana looks forward to not only contributing to UFFI and CHAMP's objectives but also reaping the benefits of shared knowledge, technology transfer, and financial support.



The Ministerial meeting brought together Ministers of Environment, Urban Development, and Housing, subnational leaders in collaboration with the Local Governments and Municipal Authorities Constituency (LGMA) to the UNFCCC, representatives from multilateral, national and subnational development banks, the private sector, and civil society organizations.





Read below the full statement of the Minister:



The government of Ghana is committed to fostering sustainable urban development and mitigating the impact of climate change.



As a member of the African Ministers for Urban Development Financing (AMUF) and in alignment with the GlobalABC initiative, Ghana is dedicated to decarbonizing the building and construction sector, recognizing the crucial role both play in our climate action endeavours.



Through collaboration with stakeholders, we aim to implement innovative solutions, embracing sustainable practices that reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency.





Furthermore, Ghana pledges its support for the Coalition for High Ambition Multilevel Partnerships (CHAMP) and the Urban Opportunity Fast Forward Initiative (UFFI) for accelerated access to climate finance for sustainable urbanisation. By joining these initiatives, we anticipate valuable support in advancing our urban resilience agenda.



We envision UFFI and CHAMP as catalysts for transformative change, providing resources and expertise to fortify our cities against the adverse impacts of climate change.



As we engage in this global alliance, Ghana looks forward to not only contributing to UFFI and CHAMP's objectives but also reaping the benefits of shared knowledge, technology transfer, and financial support.



We expect that through this collaboration, we will fortify our cities, making them more resilient to climate-related challenges while simultaneously fostering sustainable and inclusive urban development.



We support the request to include the Ministerial meeting on Urbanization and Climate change in the official agenda of future COPs.



Together, let us build a resilient and sustainable future for our urban landscapes. Thank you.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission Mrs Jean Mensa has commended the Inspector-General of Police Dr George Akuffo for his leadership of the national election security task force so far.



According to the EC, the IGP deserves commendation for activating and operationalizing the task force ahead of the district assembly polls and the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.



I would like to thank the Inspector-General of Police for his leadership in activating and operationalizing the national and regional security task forces ahead of the district assembly and the 2024 national elections, the EC chair noted during a meeting of the national election security task force held at the police headquarters on Tuesday.



The IGP who was the host of the meeting assured the EC chairperson that the security agencies are committed to ensuring that all elections held in the country are conducted in an atmosphere of peace and security.



For his part, the Chief of Defense Staff Vice Admiral Seth Amoama said even though the Ghana Armed Forces will not play a lead role in the election security, they will be on hand to provide background support to the police and other security agencies who will be in charge of the polls.



For the election proper, we may not be in the upfront of election duties but we will be in the background to support you the Police Service and other security services. The Armed Forces is ready to act accordingly when we are called upon but for the election duties proper I will leave it to the security services to be in the forefront.

Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana









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The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina in the Greater Accra Region, Francis-Xavier Kojo Sosu, has described as unfortunate the criteria used by the electorate to assess the performance of MPs in recent times.



He said instead of MPs being assessed based on their core function of legislation, the electorate rather looked at the number of development projects their representatives in Parliament were able to execute in the constituency.





He, therefore, called for more public engagements to help change that perception as it was not the duty of MPs to construct roads or initiative capital intensive infrastructural projects.



Visit

Mr Sosu said this during an educational forum organised by the Department of Public Safety Engagement of Parliament for the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) student parliamentarians at the Parliament House.



The student parliamentarians were in the House to learn at first hand how Parliament works and how they could participate indirectly in shaping policies.



The legislator for Madina explained that rather it was the central government and the local assemblies that were responsible for the provision of infrastructural development such as roads, schools, hospitals, among others, in constituencies.



"MPs don't have the financial muscle to construct roads and undertake major projects," he said.



DLEs

Touching on the December 19, 2023 District Level Elections, Mr Sosu appealed to eligible Ghanaian voters to get involved in the local government elections to vote for people who would represent their interest and hold government accountable.



"But if the only reason why you will be voting for a particular candidate is based on money or who attends a church harvest, then you have lost it," he said.



Mr Sosu also re-ignited the calls for local assemblies to be independent of central government and their chief executives to be elected.



The MP said the election of district chief executives was crucial because it gave confidence to the people as someone they legitimately elected to maximise their locally endowed natural resources for the development of basic infrastructure in their respective local government jurisdiction.



He said this would help discourage the practice where supervision of local development projects were relied on significantly by external consultants.



On the structures and how committees in Parliament work, a Principal Assistant Clerk and Head of Infrastructure and Security Cluster, Janet Frimpong, took the students through all 31 committees and how bills referred to such committees are carried.



Quoting Article 103 (5) of the Constitution and Standing Order 155 which mandate Parliament to establish such committees, Mrs Frimpong said the Standing Orders regulated the works of Parliament without which things would be done haphazardly.



For instance, she said Order 153 required every Member of Parliament to belong to at least one committee.



She told the students that apart from the Public Accounts and Subsidiary Legislation Committees chaired by the Minority, all other committees were chaired by the Majority with the Minority members serving as ranking members.



History

Tracing the history of the Parliament of Ghana from its Westminster type days to present day Ghana, the Director, Public Engagement of Parliament, Superintendent (rtd) Effia Tenge, said the legislative representation dated back to 1950 when the country was a British colony known as the Gold Coast.



The Legislative Council, as the body was then known, was purely advisory as the governor exercised all legislative and executive powers.

Source: graphiconline.com









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The Minister of Parliamentary Affairs (MOPA), Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has urged Parliament to enact into law the proposed Property Rights of Spouses Bill.



He said the passage of the bill was critical as it would direct the distribution of spousal property among spouses going through a divorce or separation.



The minister, who is also the Majority Leader, reminded the House that the Article 22(2) of the Constitution enjoined Parliament to ensure that spousal rights to property were protected, a reason lawmakers must promise to fulfil the dictates of article 22(2) to actualise the passage of the bill as soon as practicable.



It appears the blame for non-passage of the Property Rights of Spouses Bill has been rightly laid on the doorstep of Parliament because the bill has been laid twice, referred to the committee and allowed to lapse, he said.



Article 229(1) states that A spouse shall not be deprived of a reasonable provision out of the estate of a spouse whether or not the spouse died having made a will.



And 22(2) says Parliament shall, as soon as practicable, after the coming into force of this Constitution, enact legislation regulating the property rights of spouses.



Equity must prevail

At an engagement with the core leadership of Parliament last Friday, Mr Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu expressed worry about how in the absence of such a law, the courts and judicial activists had gone ahead to pass some judgements which had become guidelines for the distribution of property acquired during the subsistence of a marriage upon dissolution.



The current measures in use by the courts are only focused on parties in monogamous marriages, leaving out those in the polygamous setting. In all this, there is no certainty and as such the law is needed to ensure that equity prevails, he said.





The event, which was themed: Revisiting the Property Rights of Spouses Bill of Ghana, was aimed at craving the commitment of the leadership of Parliament to support the processes when the bill was re-laid, hopefully, at the next session.



It drew the leadership of Parliament and the members of the Queen Mothers Association in Ghana to discuss the challenges hampering the passage and to strengthen institutional collaborations for the passage of the bill. It was organised by MOPA.



Fully-fledged bill needed

The Majority Leader said it had been 30 years since the 1992 Constitution came into effect it took 16 years to present the first draft of the Property Rights of Spouses Bill to Parliament and another seven years to consider the bill.



Besides, he said 8,366,466 Ghanaians were married per the 2021 Housing and Population Census and over 950,000 marriages in Ghana were currently divorced or the couples were separated.



He gave the breakdown as 553,065 marriages dissolved while 405,090 had separated, saying that these are just the official figures.



Out of the almost 8.4 million married Ghanaians, 6,748,622 of them have not registered their marriages, with only 1,617,844 registered, he said.



Ordinarily, he said the passage of the of the Land Act 2020 should be celebrated by supporters of the bill for the commendable depth of the provisions on the Spousal Rights to Property.



However, he said it was simply not enough and could not replace the urgent need for a fully-fledged Property Rights of Spouses Law.



My study of the two draft bills that were presented to Parliament in 2009 and 2013, but failed to pass, shows that they contained germane and beneficial provisions, he said.



Consider diversity

The National Democratic Congress MP for Asawase, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, blamed the differences in cultures, ethnic, marriages and religious backgrounds of the Ghanaian society as a major hurdle to the passage of the bill.



He, therefore, drummed home the urgent need for a second look at the bill to incorporate all the differences in society to facilitate the passage of the bill.



We need to have a bill that will be able to, for example, regulate marriages because of the way we are intermarrying.



But if you want to assume that we want to do it one size fits all, the bill will continue to have the kinds of challenges it is facing, he advised.



Expedite bills passage

The President of the Queen Mothers Association in Ghana, Nana Otubea, expressed worry about how in certain jurisdictions in the country women were often thrown out of their marital homes when their husbands passed away.



She, therefore, urged Parliament to expedite the passage of the Property Rights of Spouses Bill to protect the rights of women in marriages.

Pull quote



It appears the blame for the non-passage of the Property Rights of Spouses Bill has been rightly laid on the doorstep of Parliament because the bill has been laid twice, referred to the committee and allowed to lapse.

Source: graphiconline.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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Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has called for contestants in the party's just-ended parliamentary primaries in orphan constituencies to close their ranks and present a united front for next year's elections.



The NPP, over the weekend, held parliamentary primaries in constituencies the party does not control parliamentary seats and many of the outcomes showed close contests, thereby raising concerns of possible division.



Addressing NPP Bono East Regional stakeholders in Takyiman on Monday, December 4, 2023, Dr. Bawumia said the contests are over and appealed to the winners to bring their contenders on board for a united approach to snatching seats from the National Democratic Congress.



"By the nature of elections, only one person will emerge the winner, out of the many good people wo contest. Just as the flagbearership, contest, only one person emerged winner of the many good people who contested", the NPP Flagbearer said.



"To win, we need unity across, from polling station level to national. Once we are United, we will win both the Parliamentary and Presidential elections."



Using himself as an example to underline his call for unity, Dr. Bawumia said he has been reaching out to all those he contested with in the NPP flagbearer race because they all have roles to play to make the party stronger.



"The election in 2024 is much about our internal unity as it is with our battle with the NDC. That's why I'm trying to make sure I bring all those who contested with me together because everybody who wants to lead this party has something that they want to offer", he said.



He asserted; "We want to bring them in. I am not somebody who will say you did not support me so I am not going to talk to you to support the party. I'm so happy we have many people who think about the party more than themselves. One of such persons, who is here with us is Mr. Kwabena Agyapong."



On his part, former General Secretary, Kwabena Agyapong reiterated the call for unity, saying the "voice of the people is where there is the Lord's blessing".



He commended Dr. Bawumia for his humility and urged members of the party to uphold the spirit of unity and volunteerism to help Dr. Bawumia lead the party to victory in 2024.



Dr. Bawumia's delegation included the National Chairman of the NPP, Stephen Ayensu Ntim, the former General Secretary, Kwabena Adjei Agyapong and former Member of Parliament for Suhum, Fred Opare Ansah among others

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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Kwesi Pratt Jnr. has raised concerns over the Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, Nana Ama Dokua Asiamah-Adjei, crossing over to win the Okaikwei North New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary election.



The NPP held its orphan constituency primaries over the weekend and Nana Ama Dokua, who currently represents Akuapem North in Parliament, beat the former deputy chief executive of MASLOC, Alberta Afia Akoto, to become the parliamentary candidate for the Okaikwei North into the 2024 elections.



In the stead of Hon. Dokua, the Director General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA), Sammi Awuku, has been unanimously declared the NPP parliamentary candidate for the Akuapem North constituency.



But the Editor-in-Chief of the Insight newspaper, Kwesi Pratt has some questions for Hon. Nana Ama Dokua.



Speaking on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo", Mr. Pratt wondered how possible can it be for Nana Ama Dokua to effectively work for the Akuapem North constituents now that she has been elected to represent another constituency.



Without suggesting anything in particular as to whether or not she should step down, Kwesi Pratt however found it contradictory to the laws of Ghana for a sitting MP to represent a different constituency while her tenure of office hasn't elapsed.



"How can you effectively represent them in Parliament today given the fact that it is left with more than one year before the elections? Within this one year, you will be working in another constituency...What should be the proper interpretation of this action?", he questioned.





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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Kwamena Duncan has reposed confidence in the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, to execute his task effectively.



It could be recalled that the Special Prosecutor recently lashed out at the Judiciary over their supposedly lackadaisical attitude towards the fight against corruption.



Lawyer Kissi Agyebeng bemoaned the trend where almost every case he sends to the court is dismissed and, expressing his frustrations, cautioned that the increasing numbers of dismissive rulings in corruption cases would have grave implications for Ghana.



He noted that corruption is a major threat to Ghana's economic development and erodes public trust in government, therefore warned that hastily dismissing corruption cases is dangerous for the country.



Special Prosecutor Criticizes Judiciary



Indeed I have had several calls from well-meaning lawyers admonishing me that they have heard talk that our friends who have been elevated to the bench and presiding over cases in court do not take very kindly to criticism, especially of the public calling out variety as we do. And that if the office persists in the media releases, the judges will gang up against the office and throw out all our cases.



It will be absolutely of no good should it be the case that the OSP is set against the judiciary or that the judiciary is against the OSP. That will surely spell disastrous consequences for this republic, especially in the fight against corruption to the glee of corrupt persons, Mr. Agyebeng said at a press conference.



I do not intend to sound as though Im predicting doom but we are facing doom. With this development, it will not be long, [before] a suspected murderer or armed robber will boldly walk to court with the unthinkable prayer that the court should injunct law enforcement agencies from investigating him, he warned.



The Special Prosecutor's remarks have attracted mixed feelings from the public.



Incompetent Kissi Agyebeng



The former PNC General Secretary, Atik Mohammed, analyzing the issue concludes that Kissi Agyebeng is an incompetent Special Prosecutor.



"I think we have an incompetent OSP on our hands and I don't mince my words when I say that. He is an incompetent OSP, absolutely incompetent!", he opined and expounded that "a lawyer should not even speak the way he is speaking. He is creating the impression that there is a grand agenda by the Judges to frustrate his work which is unacceptable. It's objectionable".



"He is always in a rush to do something and he talks more than he actually works...as if he is the only one who understands the law or his understanding of the law is sacrosanct and that any other opinion other than his opinion is wrong," Atik added.



Hope In Special Prosecutor



But the former Central Regional Minister, Kwamena Duncan is least perturbed by the failures of the Special Prosecutor.



According to him, the fact that cases filed by the Special Prosecutor are thrown out by the court isn't enough "basis for me to grade him and to say that he has been incompetent".



Although condemning Kissi Agyebeng's resort to holding press conference to address his concerns, he however believes what the latter needs is encouragement.



"Frustrations must come and that is where you provide leadership. You show leadership. When frustrations come, the way out is not to hold press conference; that I have disagreed with you as officer of the court," he admonished the Special Prosecutor but stressed "I haven't lost faith in him...If the country wants the best, what we must do is that we continue to encourage him. We continue to cooperate with him...I will continue to encourage him".

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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A teenager from Baltimore was arrested after he shot and killed an 18-year-old from Lancaster last month while selling a car through Facebook Marketplace, multiple reports said.

Police say Carlos Carrazana-Ricardo, a senior at McCaskey High School, was shot on the 2700 block of Harlem Avenue on Nov. 26 after he and a friend drove to Baltimore to possibly buy a 2006 Acura TL from Marques Harris, 18, according to Fox5 News Baltimore and Lancaster Online.

When Carrazana-Ricardo decided he did not want to buy Harris car and drove away with his friend, Harris started shooting towards their car, hitting Carrazana-Ricardo in the head while he was driving, Fox5 said.

Carrazana-Ricardo was taken to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center, where he passed away on Nov. 30.

Harris  who is charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and attempted murder  was arrested in Baltimore on Saturday, after investigators used Carrazana-Ricardos phone and a witness to identify him, the stories said.

After he was arrested Harris admitted he owned a handgun, was in the area of the shooting, and was selling a car on Facebook Marketplace, Lancaster Online said.

Harris preliminary hearing is scheduled for Jan. 3, Fox5 said.

Carrazana-Ricardo was born in Cuba and had only been in the United States for a year at the time of his death, Lancaster Online reported. He was authorized to work in Lancaster County about a month ago, and was recently employed at an Amazon warehouse. He had aspirations to attend college after high school, the story said.

Two GoFundMe campaigns were set up to raise money for Carrazana-Ricardos funeral costs.
Just about everybody has a favorite recipe that uses Chex cereals.

The variety of flavors - honey nut, rice, chocolate, corn, wheat and more - can be used with an endless array of other ingredients to make a snack mix suited to your tastes.

Is your favorite a salty or sweet Chex mix?

Chex used data from its website to determine the Chex mix recipe that was searched the most in each state.

Chex said that Google searches for recipes increased by almost 400% in November and December 2022.

The cereal brand found that the majority of the U.S. skews toward sweet Chex mix recipes.

Pennsylvania landed in the sweet category. The most searched specific recipe in the Keystone state was - gluten free cranberry nut.

Other popular recipes across the United States were Cajun Kick, Smores, Candy Cane Muddy Buddies, Sweet & Salty Nutcracker mix, original, cheesy ranch and loaded peanut butter.

The Countdown to Chexmas Sweepstakes continues through Dec. 31. One hundred people will be selected to win a Cricut, Hallmark Channel oven mitt, Hallmark Channel cookie cutter set, Chex party mix resealable mixing bag, a Chex mixing spoon, a box of Chex cereal and a seasoning packet.

READ MORE

Whimsical menu at IHOP features Wonka inspired purple pancakes

Eat like Buddy the Elf with this spaghetti meal kit from HelloFresh (with marshmallows and syrup!)

Double Decker Taco returns to Taco Bell. Heres when you can get it.
A recent phishing attack may have affected the personal information of thousands of people with Hershey emails, according to a filing with the Maine Attorney Generals Office.

A letter sent to Maine residents said the breach happened between Sept. 3-4 when an unauthorized person gained access to around 2,214 Hershey email accounts and may have had access to the following information:

First and last names

Routing numbers

Health and medical information

Health insurance information

Digital signatures

Dates of birth

Addresses and contact information

Drivers license numbers

Credit card numbers (with passcodes and/or security codes)

Credentials for online financial accounts.

People affected by the breach were offered a complimentary 24-month membership of Experian IdentityWorks, a credit monitoring service that works to protect personal information.

Anyone with questions can call 888-451-6560 toll-free Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Eastern.

Hershey does not believe the information is being misused at this time, but took necessary precautions such as mandatory password changes and extra safeguards.
Editors note: Several additional responses have been added to the story.

Harrisburg residents voiced their displeasure during Tuesday nights city council meeting about a plan to force homeless encampments to relocate for the third time this year.

Their frustrations came after notice signs were posted telling unhoused people living at Riverfront Park that they must leave along with their belongings.

The notice signs, which are now removed, were posted due to a rise in the unhoused population throughout the park, and a growing concern over sanitation issues, according to city spokesperson Matt Maisel.

The notice signs, which advised people to remove their belongings and vacate the area due to health hazards did not include a deadline for them to move out.

He said if the encampment comes to a point where they have to place a deadline it wont be until the new year and ample notice will be given. Maisel also said no one is getting arrested.

We are mindful of the holidays, so to not enforce any serious disruptions around this time of year, and also so providers have ample time to add Riverfront Park to their list of service areas, he said.

Maisel said Riverfront Park does not have standard sanitation facilities, and the City Public Works Department has had to repeatedly clean up these public spaces, which are heavily trafficked during the week.

He added that city code prohibits people from camping in parks and dumping things into the Susquehanna River.

While Maisel said that the citys homeless populations have camped there for years, the issue has become overwhelming and they cant turn a blind eye to the situation.

Residents and homeless advocates who gathered Tuesday night at City Hall during the city council meeting said the answer is more affordable housing, not crackdowns.

Its getting old, said Harrisburg resident and activist Brandon Basom. I agree, tents outside are awful, but the city is offering nothing. If we cant help these folks, we should at least get out of their way so they can survive. Making it harder for them is just cruel.

The homeless encampment under Mulberry Street bridge in Harrisburg. January 18, 2023. Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com

When Mayor Wanda Williams was asked about the issue by members of the council earlier during the meeting, she said the city is responding to their needs and working with the Capital Area Coalition on Homelessness (CACH).

I know a lot of people are concerned about us moving them, but we have to, she said. Williams mentioned some of the areas where unhoused people are living are privately owned.

She said the city has provided the homeless with porta-potties, tents, blankets, and other resources but did not specify that it was being supplied at the park. She said theyre not using the porta-potties which has caused an environmental issue.

Williams pointed out that her administration tried to provide resources at a temporary shelter last year but no one showed up.

We want them to go to a place thats safe, Williams said. We want them to utilize the facilities that we have on board for them in the different areas.

We do try to take care of them. We are trying to work with them, but they have to want to work with us as well. We are doing everything we possibly can.

Harrisburg resident Kelsey White said homeless advocates are demanding that the city have portable toilets, hand washing stations, and disposal containers available at the park, and that the park should be maintained by city cleaners and residents.

She then shared an online petition, signed by over 160 people, calling for the city to reverse its stance on the encampments and provide accommodations.

I remember when they removed Mulberry Street not even a year ago there were a lot of promises made and none of them were fulfilled, said Penny Packer. And a lot of those same folks [are] now living down by the river because its the only place for them to be.

Posting a sign with no date is really dehumanizing, she added.

The city ought to be treating its citizens like human beings who need help, not trash to be swept away and hidden, said Jonathan Dunkleburger.

At the beginning of the year, city officials told the people living under the Mulberry Street Bridge that they must leave, citing a public health emergency due to rats and garbage. After the people moved elsewhere, the site of the encampment was laced with large rocks and fenced off.

One of Jonathan Dunkleburger's signs he created to address the city ordering the homeless encampment at Riverfront Park to leave.Photo provided by Brandon Basom

Dunkleburger placed signs, each with a different message, near Riverfront Park and other city landmarks on Monday to call attention to Harrisburgs recent notice. Dunkleburger told PennLive he hopes the administration will allow the homeless to stay at the park and supply basic amenities for them.

I thought it was ridiculous the first two times and its gotten to the point where its just cruel, he said. The pattern of doing this in the dead of winter and kicking these people from place to place without coming up with any real solutions seems cruel.

The city announced an eviction at an encampment that began to pile up along the Capital Area Greenbelt trail in June. Several occupants of the encampment, which the city said was located largely on private property, had previously lived under the Mulberry Street Bridge.

Maisel said the city is working with CACH to get people to utilize overnight winter shelters in Harrisburg, which are available until March 31, 2024. He said the overnight winter shelters opened on Dec. 1.
Want a say in the news? Email Claudia at todayinpa@pennlive.com to have your thoughts on the stories covered here or on PennLive heard during Listening to Listeners, an original Today in Pa. segment that occurs every other Friday.

You can listen to the latest episode of Today in Pa at this link, or on any of your favorite apps including Alexa, Apple, Spotify, and Stitcher. Episodes are available every weekday on PennLive. Feel free to subscribe, follow or rate Today in Pa. as you see fit!

Today in Pa. Daily Podcast | December 6, 2023

A former health care worker pleaded guilty to federal hate crimes against the patients he once looked after. The Hershey Company revealed how a phishing attack exposed the personal information over 2,000 people across the country. Heres what the Pennsylvania Farm Shows upcoming new milkshake flavor will be. Plus, Steelers Nation united to help out one of their own.

Those are the stories we cover in the latest episode of Today in Pa., a daily weekday podcast from PennLive.com and hosted by Claudia Dimuro. Today in Pa. is dedicated to sharing the most important and interesting stories pertaining to Pennsylvania that lets you know, indeed, whats happening today in Pa.

Todays episode refers to the following articles:

If you enjoy Today in Pa., consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts or on Amazon. Reviews help others find the show and, besides, wed like to know what you think about the program, too.

As sponsored by Renewal by Anderson of Central PA.
The holiday season is upon us with all its twinkling lights and songs of love, joy, and peace. But for millions of people, there is no peace on earth. In fact, this may be among the bloodiest holiday seasons of all times.

Our Jewish friends and neighbors are grieving the tragedy that rocked the land they built as their safe haven after centuries of oppression.

Our Palestinian and Muslim friends and neighbors are in agony over the Israeli bombs now falling on innocent children in Gaza. And Ukrainian refugees in our region are suffering the same misery over relatives facing death and destruction from Russian missiles.

Smoke is seen in Khartoum, Sudan, Saturday, April 22, 2023. The fighting in the capital between the Sudanese Army and Rapid Support Forces resumed after an internationally brokered cease-fire failed. (AP Photo/Marwan Ali)AP

Then, theres the war in Sudan that is so brutal, many are labeling it a 21st century genocide.

The rape and carnage in Sudan dont get as much attention as the chaos in the Middle East or Ukraine, but they should. Its personal to Hagir Elsheikh, a refugee from Sudan who is now a successful businesswoman in our region. Elsheikh has her own chilling tale of fleeing torture and persecution in Sudan. She says warring generals and their soldiers are committing despicable acts against women and children in Sudan. She says they are as much a threat to American life as Osama bin Ladens minions were two decades ago.

Andrew Lentz, an expert on Sudan with the U.S. Department of State, speaks during a webinar about U.S. efforts to end the war ravaging the country.Facebook screenshot

Andrew Lentz, an expert on Sudan with the U.S. Department of State, agrees, and for good reason. He explained in detail during a recent World Affairs Council of Harrisburg webinar the significant threat Sudans warring factions represent to world stability and American security. Thats why the Biden Administration is intent on trying to end the war and the suffering it is inflicting on innocent people.

Smoke is seen in Khartoum, Sudan, Wednesday, April 19, 2023. Terrified Sudanese are fleeing their homes in the capital Khartoum, witnesses say, after an internationally brokered cease-fire failed and rival forces battled in the capital for a fifth day. (AP Photo/Marwan Ali)AP

Lets not forget Sudan is where Osama bin Laden first sought to establish his base under the protection of the Taliban in Afghanistan. Sudan is almost three times as big as Texas. It is one of the worlds major gold producers. And Russia even has found a base there. It entered an agreement with the country to develop a port and naval dock for both civilian and military use. And its likely to try to use its dock in Sudan to work against American interests.

There are ample practical reasons why the Biden Administration is working to stop Sudanese soldiers from slaughtering their own people. And he is right to demand the Sudanese people be allowed to form a civilian government. These wars end up threatening our own shores if we dont find a way to stop them abroad.

But global peacemaking shouldnt just be about protecting gold mines, keeping Russians at bey, or keeping Americans rich. Peacemaking is about the moral and ethical imperatives of those with power to protect human beings from unimaginable atrocity.

Palestinians wounded in the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip are brought to the hospital in Deir al Balah on Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023. (AP Photo/ Hatem Moussa)AP

In Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, women, children, the elderly, and the infirm are engulfed in misery with little hope of survival. Millions have no heat, food, or water as we gather around the Yuletide logs with mugs of hot chocolate and marshmallows.

Fire rains down from the heavens both day and night on infants without even mangers to lay their heads. Soldiers rampage with impunity threatening virgins. And no one seems to be able to stop it.

Family members of Sgt. Roni Eshel cry during her funeral in Kfar Saba, Israel, Sunday Nov. 12, 2023. Eshel was killed during Hamas' bloody cross-border rampage on Oct. 7, 2023. At least 1,200 people were killed and some 240 captured in an unprecedented, multi-front attack on Israel by the militant group that rules Gaza. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)AP

Human suffering on the scale we are seeing around the world cannot be ignored. Such suffering should not be personal only for Elsheikh and for those with grandmothers and aunts cowering in fear. The human suffering now unleashed around the world should be personal to every American, especially at the dawn of a holy season when we sing about peace on earth and joy to the world.

At the very least, those with compassion and conscience should support efforts to stop the bloodshed and to forge a path to peace. This is the imperative this holiday season. Peace.

Each one of us can do the very least to email our congressional representatives and insist the United States remain engaged as a world peacemaker, dedicated to relieving human suffering no matter the race, creed, culture, or religion.

Meest warehouse is full of humanitarian aid ready to be shipped to help the relief effort in Ukraine. Woodbridge, N.J. Friday, March 11, 2022Noah K. Murray | for NJ Advance Media

And each of us can forgo a bauble this giving season to donate to trustworthy organizations providing necessities of survival for the millions of innocent people who have no escape route out of their daily torture.

USAID offers three ways to identify the right organizations to support this holiday season:

And the United States Institute of Peace, funded by Congress, works behind the scenes around the world to prevent violence before it leads to the type of disasters we see in Israel, Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan. Congress should continue to support their work, but your senators and representatives may not if they think Americans dont care.

This holiday season, maybe its time to look beyond our own family and friends to bring hope to others around the globe. Maybe we need to let those in the halls of power know we expect them to work for peace on earth.

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.
The scene in the Bureij refugee camp following an Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip on Nov. 14, 2023. AP Photo/Adel Hana

Some commentators have criticized Israel for causing what is claimed to be disproportionate harm to civilians in its military response to Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, attack.

Others have defended Israels actions, claiming that such force  and the risk to civilians involved  is necessary to eliminate Hamas, which some Israelis believe poses an existential threat to Israel.

As of Nov. 25, according to health officials in the Gaza Strip, more than 14,000 Palestinians have been killed, the majority of whom are women and children.

But one of the arguments given by defenders of Israels actions is that, tragic though these deaths are, the harm inflicted on civilians is proportionate because it is outweighed by the importance of destroying Hamas.

But what does proportionate mean in the context of civilian deaths? And how should we assess Israels claims of proportionality against critics who argue that Israels actions have caused disproportionate harm to civilians? As a scholar of war crimes and military ethics, I argue that to assess these claims requires careful thought about what it really means to value civilian lives. If all civilian lives are morally equal, as international law holds, then the lives of civilians on both sides of a conflict should be treated with the same degree of respect.

Why targeting civilians is wrong

International humanitarian law, or IHL, prohibits direct attacks on noncombatants  a category that includes civilians as well as wounded and surrendered soldiers. IHL also prohibits direct attacks on civilian objects such as schools, religious centers and hospitals and other civilian infrastructure.

However, because it is impossible to avoid all harm to civilians in a war zone, IHL permits attacks on military targets that are likely to cause harm to civilians if two conditions are met: First, the foreseeable harm to civilians must be proportionate to the military advantage sought by the attack. And second, the choice of tactics and weapons  what is referred to in IHL as the means and methods  must also aim to minimize risk to civilians, even if it means putting more soldiers in harms way.

The prohibitions on directly targeting civilians and exposing civilians to disproportionate risk of harm exist because, under IHL, civilians have protected status as long as they take no active part in the hostilities. This means that, as stated in the Geneva Conventions  the set of international treaties governing the conduct of armed conflict  all civilians must be treated humanely, without any adverse distinction founded on race, color, religion or faith, sex, birth or wealth, or any other similar criteria.

Directly targeting civilians or exposing them to disproportionate harm is therefore wrong for the same reasons that it is wrong to kill or harm innocent people in peacetime. People who pose no threat to others deserve respect and protection from violence regardless of their nationality or group identity. To violate that respect in war is not only a war crime but a moral crime, which is why Hamas massacre of at least 1,200 Israeli citizens and the taking of 240 hostages is rightly condemned as an atrocity.

How should the lives of innocent people be weighed against important military objectives?

Proportionality and moral assessment

The condemnation of Hamas crimes is based on the same moral principle as the laws that protect noncombatants in war: All innocent people deserve protection.

However, scholars and legal experts disagree about how the legal framework laid out in the Geneva Conventions should be applied in war zones.

For example, in 1987 the International Committee of the Red Cross argued that the definition of military advantage  the advantage against which potential civilian harm must be weighed  should only include ground gained and annihilating or weakening the enemy armed forces.

But the 2016 U.S. Department of Defense Law of War Manual claimed that military advantage should also include other goals such as diverting enemy forces resources and attention.

There is also disagreement about what counts as civilian harm. For example, scholar Emanuela-Chiara Gillard argues that civilian harm should include psychological and physical harms; legal expert Dr. Beth Van Schaack argues that long-term harms should also be considered.

In short, there are no easy answers to questions about how to weigh harms against civilians against the value of military objectives. But while answers are difficult, there is a different way to frame this question: What does it mean  not just legally, but morally  to treat all civilian lives as equal, as the law requires?

As scholar Matthew Talbert and I argue, the first step in answering this question is to ask what a military force would accept if it were their civilians who were at risk of harm from military action.

That is the standard we should apply when assessing potential military actions that threaten harm to enemy civilians. We call this standard the principle of the moral equality of noncombatants. For example, Israel argued that its attack on Shifa hospital was justified because, it claimed, Hamas was hiding a command base and weapons under the hospital.

The hospital, which was running low on fuel, food and water, housed patients, including premature babies, and civilians seeking refuge from the conflict. According to footage shown in news reports, the attack left the hospital seriously damaged, filled with debris and lacking essential supplies for the remaining patients, who include the elderly and infirm.

Israel has released footage supporting its claim that there was a Hamas command center under the hospital. Does that mean Israels attack on the hospital meets the requirements of proportionality? In other words, was the harm to civilians caused by the attack  including the ongoing harm resulting from the loss of a major hospital  proportionate to the military value of destroying a Hamas command base?

In applying the principle Talbert and I proposed in our paper, the question would be phrased as follows: If Hamas was hiding a control base under an Israeli hospital and it was Israeli civilians at risk, would Israel think that attacking the hospital would be justified? If the answer is no, then the attack against Shifa hospital is also not justified.

This is because if the risk to Israeli lives outweighs the benefits of capturing a Hamas command base, then the risk to Palestinian lives should be given the same weight and lead to the same conclusion. Under IHL, all civilians are legally entitled to the same protection, regardless of their nationality.

Taking civilian lives seriously

Unfortunately, the debate about proportionality in the conflict between Israel and Palestine is only the latest of many debates about proportionality and civilian deaths in war zones.

For example, since 2001, the United States drone program has killed at least 22,000 civilians in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Pakistan and elsewhere. A New York Times report on these deaths found multiple instances of flawed intelligence, cover-ups and cases of mistaken identity. Despite this record, civilians deaths still occur.

Using the principle of the moral equality of noncombatants to assess this track record would reveal whether the U.S. military is taking sufficient care to avoid harm to civilians. If the U.S. military would not accept these deaths  and the policies and practices that contribute to them  if U.S. civilians were at risk, then these deaths are unjustified.

This would mean that the drone program must change in order to treat civilians in Syria, Pakistan and elsewhere with the respect to which they are legally and morally entitled. This example illustrates that to meet the standards of IHL and the moral principles that underlie those standards, military forces must apply the principle of the moral equality of noncombatants. There is no legal or moral justification, I argue, for treating some civilians lives as less important than others.

This is a demanding principle. Applying it would be difficult - military and political leaders would have to accept that there might be military objectives that are not important enough to justify risk to civilian lives. And it would require acknowledging that some military objectives might be so important that even harm to their civilians might be justified.

But one of the functions of IHL is to limit the suffering and damage caused by armed conflict. This principle reflects the moral and legal status of civilians in IHL and could lead to greater respect for and protection of all civilians during conflict.

Jessica Wolfendale, Professor of Philosophy, Case Western Reserve University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  Just how hard did some Republican members of Congress work to keep Donald Trump in office after his 2020 election loss? A court case is providing a few tantalizing clues.

Snippets and short summaries of texts and emails sent by Rep. Scott Perry of Pennsylvania, a top Trump ally, have emerged publicly for the first time as part of a court filing that was unsealed  perhaps inadvertently  by the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., as part of a legal battle with federal prosecutors.

The messages reveal more about what investigators want to know, what actions Perry took in the weeks after the election and where Perry may fit in the web of Trump loyalists who were central to his bid to remain in power.

It was Perrys efforts to elevate Jeffrey Clark to Trumps acting attorney general  and likely reverse the Department of Justices stance that it had found no evidence of widespread voting fraud that would change the election  that have made him a figure of interest to federal prosecutors.

Perry, in the past, has said he merely obliged Trumps request that he be introduced to Clark.

But the messages suggest that Perry was a key ally for Clark, providing encouragement as he sought to win Trumps favor. At one point Perry told a nervous Clark that you are the man and seemingly helped him prep for an important meeting and secure a higher security clearance.

The court filing with Perrys messages was unsealed last week  then resealed in a move the court has yet to explain. Copies of the filing were downloaded and posted online by news organizations and others.

Perrys cellphone was seized by federal authorities last year as part of the investigation into attempts to subvert the results of the 2020 election and block the transfer of power to Democrat Joe Biden.

Details of the case have remained largely secret. But the filing offered new details about the legal reasoning and arguments in the case that some observers found revealing.

I would say we learned a great deal from that, said Grayson Clary, a staff attorney at the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, which has pressed for transparency in the case.

What more information, exactly, will emerge from the seizure of Perrys cellphone remains to be seen.

Judges continue to weigh which of Perrys hundreds of texts and emails are constitutionally protected by Perrys status as a member of Congress, and which of them are fair game for the FBI because they fell outside his duties as a member of the legislative branch.

Congressional inquiries have shown that Perrys efforts to promote Clark came as Trump pressured members of the Department of Justice to challenge the 2020 election. At the time, Perry was also pressing Justice Department officials to investigate a variety of election fraud claims in Pennsylvania  claims that officials and the courts dismissed as baseless.

In one text exchange on Dec. 30, Perry texted Clark that Trump seems very happy with your response. I read it just as you dictated, the unsealed-then-resealed court filing said.

Clark responded, Im praying. This makes me quite nervous. And wonder if Im worthy or ready. Perry responded, You are the man. I have confirmed it. God does what he does for a reason.

The two then discussed when Trump would pull the trigger on something new and make an absolute decision, the court filing said.

Perry later prepped Clark for a meeting with the director of national intelligence and suggested he knew Trump had moved to boost Clarks security clearance. POTUS is giving you a presidential security clearance, Perry told Clark in a text.

At the time, Clark was the assistant attorney general of the Environment and Natural Resources Division and served as the acting head of the Civil Division.

Weeks before, Attorney General William Barr had refuted Trumps campaign of baseless lies about election fraud, telling The Associated Press that the Justice Department had uncovered nothing that could change the outcome of the 2020 election.

But, by Christmas, Barr had resigned and Trump was searching for a like-minded successor to use the Department of Justice to help stall the certification of the election.

To that end, Clark had drafted a letter that he suggested sending to Georgia saying the Department of Justice had identified signicant concerns that may have impacted the outcome of the election in multiple states, including the state of Georgia, according to the August indictment in that state accusing Trump, Clark and 17 others of trying illegally to keep him in power.

Top department officials refused to sign it or send the letter, prosecutors said, and the showdown over Clarks plan brought the Justice Department to the brink of crisis.

In a contentious meeting on Jan. 3, 2021 in the Oval Office, Trump toyed with elevating Clark to acting attorney general, but backed down after he was told that it would result in mass resignations at the Justice Department and his own White House counsels office.

Clark is now described in the federal indictment of Trump as one of six unnamed and unindicted co-conspirators in an effort to illegally subvert the 2020 election.

Perry has not been charged with a crime and has said investigators told his attorneys that he is not the target of the investigation. Meanwhile, Perry was one of four House Republicans who were referred to the House Ethics committee after they refused to cooperate with subpoenas from the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Amid it all, Perrys influence in Congress has since grown.

He is now the chairman of the Freedom Caucus, a hardline faction of conservatives that exerts outsize influence on the GOP majority. Several members of the group were instrumental in the ouster of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy this fall, and its members remain closely aligned with Trump.

Perry is also the only sitting member of Congress whose cellphone was seized by the FBI in the 2020 election investigation.

Perrys lawyer called the courts unsealing unfortunate and argued that the communications should be constitutionally protected from release.

The communications reflect his efforts to understand real-time information about the 2020 election, Perrys lawyer, John Rowley, said in a statement. They were confidential and intended to address critical business before Congress in service of his constituents.
FILE - Los Angeles Angels' Shohei Ohtani celebrates as he rounds first after hitting a two-run home run during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the New York Yankees Monday, July 17, 2023, in Anaheim, Calif. Shohei Ohtani is a favorite to win his second AL Most Valuable Player award, Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File)
OZARK  The 2024 Master Beef Producer Training-Green Cattle Production Systems is being held in Ozark and reservations are being accepted.

Participation is limited due to available meeting space, said Dale County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich. The first, 32 paid registrations will be accepted. A minimum of 15 paid registrations by Dec. 31 are needed to conduct the training, Voynich said. Jan. 10, 2024, is the final deadline for participants to register for the training.

The Master Beef Producer Training, a partnership of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Dale County Extension Office and the Dale County Cattlemens Association, is scheduled for Jan. 11 through Feb. 20, 2024 and is open to all beef cattle producers.

The former Alabama Master Cattle Producer Training Program has been updated and expanded to include the Green Cattle Production Systems initiative which focuses on beef production education to improve the economic profitability, sustainability, forage-based feed/grazing systems and natural resources conservation efforts in beef herds. The goal of the training is to educate beef producers on the latest technologies and methods, important for growing beef in a competitive world market, said Animal Science and Forages Regional Extension Agent Rickey Hudson. Since change is the only constant of the beef industry, producers must remain current and be open to adopt economically feasible technologies in their operations.

The training will be held on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights from 5:30 until 9 p.m. at the Dale County Extension office, located at 202 South U.S. Highway 123 in Ozark. Voynich said participants should plan to attend the program in its entirety, as 90% attendance is required to receive certification. A 70% score or greater is required on examinations to receive certification. The program is designed for individuals to attend all 15 training sessions and pass a follow-up exam, she said.

The $150 per person registration fee includes training handouts, presentation materials and break refreshments for each of the 15 training sessions.

The 2024 Master Beef Producer Training will be a true educational experience, said Hudson. While the training promises to be demanding, it will offer useful information, production guides and tools to help with beef cattle management decisions.

For more information, contact Hudson at (334) 726-6814.
It was December 7, 1941, and many members of the military were still sleeping in their bunks this Sunday morning, along with residents of the Pearl Harbor, Oahu area.

At 07:55 the first attack hit. From that moment on, there were bombs, machine gun fire, explosions and more. A quote from the Honolulu Star Bulletin states, A Day that will live in Infamy.

From this first initial attack, the waves of war hit home, and the United States was now at war with her attacker of the Pacific... Japan.

Within a few short days, many lives were changed dramatically on the islands and in the continen...
The MRE's were lined up on the desk for the students to be ready to prepare. The Wyoming National Guard has challenged the Pine Bluffs Foods Class to be able to change an MRE (Meals Ready to Eat).

An MRE is a ration established by the first American Military during the Revolutionary War. It contents consist of enough food to feed a man for the day. At that time it contained beef, peas, and rice. During the Civil War the meals moved to canned products. They had canned meat, bread, and coffee, sugar and salt. By 1963 the food in the packs was prepared meals with freeze dried and dehydrated fo...
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Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez explained to Republicans how women know the GOP is not looking out for their best interests.

Rep. Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) said, And so were supposed to sit here on this side of the dais and to the ranking member, to ranking member Lees point, see a party that has voted against womens access. to abortion, voted against our rights, the Lilly Ledbetter Equal Pay Act, voted against the Violence Against Women Act, voted against our right to have access to contraception, and also doesnt even vote for equal funding, equitable funding in womens sports, and Im supposed to believe that this is whos looking out for my best interests? I think not.

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AOC: Were supposed to sit here and see a party that has voted against womens access to abortion, equal pay, the violence against women act, against our right to have access to contraception and Im supposed to believe theyre looking out for my best interests? I think not pic.twitter.com/2cHQj8mEc2  Acyn (@Acyn) December 5, 2023

AOC nailed it. One of the main reasons why Republicans continue to lose elections is that claim to be acting in the best interests of women, but their actions are the opposite of their words. There appears to be a mentality within the Republican Party that they cant publicly stand by their actual positions, so they have to trick voters by hiding their dangerous and destructive agenda.

Ocasio-Cortez called the GOP out, and Democrats need to do the same thing through the 2024 election.
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President Biden blasted Congressional Republicans for holding aid for Ukraine hostage and jeopardizing national security.

Biden said at the White House:

Id like to speak to you today about an urgent responsibility that Congress has to uphold the national security needs of the United States and quite frankly, of our partners as well. This cannot wait. Congress needs to pass supplemental funding for Ukraine before they break for the holiday. Frankly. I think its stunning that weve gotten to this point in the first place. Well, Congress Republicans in Congress were willing to give Putin the greatest gift he could hope for and abandon our global leadership, not just Ukraine, but beyond that. Weve all seen the brutality that Putin has inflicted on Ukraine, invading another country, trying to subjugate his neighbors to his iron rule, committing atrocities, atrocities against Ukrainian civilians trying to plunge them into the cold and darkness of winter by bombing their electrical grid. So they dont have any heat during the winter or electricity for that matter.

Kidnapping thousands of Ukraine, thousands of Ukrainian Children from their parents and families and keeping them in Russia. Russian forces are committing war crimes. Its as simple as that. Its stunning who is prepared to walk away from holding Putin accountable for this behavior. Who among us is really prepared to do that. You know, for the better part of two years, the brave people of Ukraine have denied Russia a victory on the battlefield. Theyve defeated Vladimir Putins ambition to dominate Ukraine and the people of the United States can and should take pride. They should take pride and weve enabled Ukraines success. Thanks to the steady supply of weapons and ammunition, we provided them together with our partners and our allies. I just did a meeting with the G7, which was one of the issues we discussed. All the European leaders. We are prepared to stay with us, stay with Ukraine and our European friends are as well who in the United States are prepared to walk away from that. I tell you, Im not prepared to walk away and I dont think the American people are either. If Putin takes Ukraine, he wont stop there.

Video:

Biden rips congressional Republicans on Ukraine funding, Frankly. I think its stunning that weve gotten to this point in the first place. WeRepublicans in Congress are willing to give Putin the greatest gift he could hope for and abandon our global leadership. pic.twitter.com/GnUJstTw0U  Sarah Reese Jones (@PoliticusSarah) December 6, 2023

Republicans are helping Putin by trying to hold Ukraine aid hostage for what is a failed border policy. The border bill that House and Senate Republicans are trying to extort from Democratic members of Congress and the President reflects Trumps border policies that were a massive failure during his presidency.

President Biden is correct. Republicans are helping Putin and jeopardizing America by blocking Ukraine aid. Putin will not be appeased. He will not stop at Ukraine. The Russian authoritarian will attack a NATO country, and then the congressional Republican hostage taking will be responsible for getting American troops potentially involved in a war with Russia.

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Rep. Don Meuser claimed that his car being broken into is Bidens fault because of an ideology of appeasement.

Rep. Meuser said on Newsmax:

It was simply another result of this. I just call ideology of appeasement that emanates from the Biden White House and emanates right on down through, frankly, most of the of the Democrat Party. Were seeing it in our streets. Were seeing it at the border.

Were seeing it in the Ukraine, and were seeing it in Gaza. How we are. We are criminal justice system, making the victim the guilty party. And the criminal we have sympathy for, and its exactly whats occurring in Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia and New York and other places. Crime is up. Armed robberies are up 60 percent in D.C., carjackings are up 104 percent car thefts are up 100 percent just from last year, and last year was one of the worst on record, but I happened to be very simply at 7:15 in the morning, Sean. Unfortunately, 15 minutes prior, I was jogging by, and my car got broken into, and a bunch of things got stolen.

Video:

GOP Rep. Dan Meuser on Newsmax blames Biden for his car being broken into in DC. Add it to the articles of impeachment! pic.twitter.com/iIl9FRob40  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) December 6, 2023

Nobody every had their car broken into before Joe Biden was president. Robberies of automobiles are a brand new thing that started happening because of President Bidens telepathic mindset powers that control the nation.

The bad news for Rep. Meuser is that car break-ins happen in big cities, small towns, rural and urban areas, so his car might not be safe anywhere.

House Republicans are so deranged when it comes to Biden that they are blaming him for things that go wrong in their personal lives. If Starbucks got their order wrong, its Bidens fault. Forget your wallet, hopefully not in your car, that would be a double whammy, its Bidens fault.

The complete silliness and ideological blindness of House Republicans is why America will be immediately better served when Democrats take back the majority next year.

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By choosing to retire at the end of the year, Rep. Kevin McCarthy may have made it impossible for James Comer and Jim Jordans Biden impeachment to pass the House.

McCarthy wrote in a Wall Street Journal piece announcing his retirement:



No matter the odds, or personal cost, we did the right thing. That may seem out of fashion in Washington these days, but delivering results for the American people is still celebrated across the country.

It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways. I know my work is only getting started.

The political reality is that by deciding to leave at the end of the year, McCarthy screwed over House Republicans on his way out the door.

The first of the government funding deadlines happens in January 2024, and Republicans will only have a 2 seat House majority. McCarthy lost his job as Speaker because he funded the government, so it seems that the timing of his departure is intended as a bit of payback to those who ousted him.

No matter what James Comer and Jim Jordan say, they dont have the votes to impeach President Biden. Jordan and Comer threatened Hunter Biden with contempt of Congress if he did not comply with their subpoena.

However, in order to find Hunter Biden in contempt of Congress, a majority of the House has to vote for a contempt resolution. With a two-vote majority, Republicans might not be able to pass a contempt resolution against Hunter Biden.

Comer and Jordans subpoenas might be unenforceable because Republicans now need virtually every member of their conference on the same page to pass anything.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) is going to be in no hurry to fill McCarthys seat. Republicans may be working with a two-seat majority for many months.

This reality could kill the MAGA effort to impeach President Biden.

Kevin McCarthy knew this, which is why it is impossible to view his retirement announcement as anything other than a big middle finger to his soon-to-be former House Republican colleagues.

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The Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce announced Tuesday that two local businesses received Alabama Small Business Of The Year awards.

Wiregrass Electric Cooperative was awarded the Alabama Small Business of the Year Gold in the 51-100 employees category, while Engineered Systems Inc received the Alabama Small Business of the Year Silver in the 1-10 employees group.

The awards were presented during the Business Council of Alabama and the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabamas annual partnership meeting in Birmingham last month.

Among the 46 finalists, two other local businesses, Oaks on Park and Waxing the City, were recognized in the Emerging Business and Small Business of the Year Silver categories, respectively.
Short made her way out of the bedroom with two children, ages 6 and 11, put them in a car outside the residence and tried to drive away  even as an officer attempting to detain her was hanging out of the passenger door, according to the court document.

The officer drew his service weapon. She stopped the vehicle.

When her husband realized the third child wasn't with her, he rushed back into the bedroom. It was 9:11 a.m. He started calling for officers from the adjoining bathroom.

The husband found their infant boy wrapped in a plastic shower curtain with what turned out to be a knife wound on his neck, the affidavit said. Medical staff at Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center pronounced the boy dead 23 minutes later.

One of the children told FBI investigators that the mother went into the bathroom with their brother and two knives.

"Dont come into the bathroom because it might be really scary," she told her other two children, according to the filing.

When their mother returned to the bedroom, the child recalled her saying she had cut their sibling so he could "be with Jesus and God."

The indictment alleges Short killed the 11-month-old by "stabbing and cutting (the child) with an edged weapon while engaged in the knowing and willful perpetration of child abuse."

Short was in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. Epps' order indicates Short will go to a facility chosen by the U.S. Bureau of Prisons as she undergoes mental evaluation, but court filings don't indicate whether her evaluation has started.

The Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division is investigating the case with assistance from the FBI.

If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, please call SAMHSAs National Helpline at 800-662-HELP or a provider of your choice. Residents of Aiken or Barnwell counties may call the Aiken-Barnwell Mental Health Center at 803-641-7700 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays or the after-hours crisis line at 833-364-2274.
Aiken City Attorney Gary Smith III has been dismissed from a lawsuit challenging the legality of the since-failed Project Pascalis.

Judge Jocelyn Newman issued an order Tuesday morning dismissing Smith from the lawsuit that was filed last July.

Newman is an at-large judge in South Carolina's circuit court system. She is the daughter of Clifton Newman, the judge who presided over the criminal cases and convictions of Alex Murdaugh.

The order says Smith was dismissed upon a motion by plaintiffs David Blake, Luis Rinaldini, Dick Dewar, Jenne Stoker, B.B. McGhee, Gail King, the Historic Aiken Foundation, the Green Boundary Foundation and the South Carolina Public Interest Foundation.

Smith's attorneys, Clarke McCants III and Clarke McCants IV, consented to the dismissal.

Smith asked to be dismissed from the lawsuit in February.

His attorneys said the lawsuit wasn't the proper way to argue Smith violated the South Carolina Ethics, Government Accountability and Campaign Reform Act. Instead, they argued the plaintiffs should have filed a complaint with the South Carolina Ethics Commission (and the South Carolina Bar Association).

The plaintiffs filed the lawsuit July 5, 2022. They alleged Smith violated the act because he participated in meetings and gave his advice to the Aiken City Council while his law firm partner, Ray Massey, served as registered agent of RPM Development Partners and owned property adjacent to the property to be redeveloped in Project Pascalis.

Project Pascalis was a $75 million plus redevelopment plan focused on the block surrounded by Richland Avenue, Laurens and Newberry streets, and Park Avenue.

The Project Pascalis plan called for the demolition of the vacant Hotel Aiken and a building next to it on Laurens Street and the construction of a 100-room hotel in their place. The Holley House and several buildings located between it and Newberry Street, including most of the former C.C. Johnson Drug Store, would be demolished to make way for an apartment complex and parking garage. The city's former municipal building would be expanded into a conference center.
Many of America's most seasoned citizens had "remember Pearl Harbor" drilled into their minds 80-plus years ago, and the 1941 attack that led America into World War II is a topic of frequent conversation, beyond a classroom or movie setting, for some residents of the Aiken-Augusta area.

One of the most prominent is a retired Air Force general whose background includes having been born at West Point as part of a military family and having been an eyewitness  at age six  of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Perry Smith, who has lived in Augusta since 1990, is also known to some as an author, a military analyst on TV and radio news, and an authority on military history and philosophy.

Smith and his family, on the day of the attack, were living in Honolulu in a small, rented home and starting "just another Sunday morning for our family," he recalled in his book titled "Listen Up! Stories of Pearl Harbor, Vietnam, the Pentagon, CNN and Beyond."

He and his 8-year-old sister, George Ann, "were always some of the first kids to be picked up," he wrote. "The truck would pick up other kids from military families along the way to the chapel at Fort DeRussy. The trip was timed so we would arrive at the fort in time for our 8 AM Sunday School class. Since I had a problem with motion sickness, I was allowed to sit in the back of the truck so I could look outside. This kept me from becoming 'truck sick.'"

The first wave of the Japanese attack found that Army truck still rolling and making a swift change of course. "Luckily, no Japanese fighter or bomber saw us as a target of opportunity, so no bombs or bullets came our way. As the truck sped through the narrow streets, I was frightened and was crying. My sister remained calm. She tried to comfort me," Smith wrote.

"She helped me hang on to the bench in the truck so we would not be tossed out the back. It was a wild and scary ride. I saw plumes of smoke and a few airplanes, but the only noise I remember was the noise of the trucks engine as the driver drove at a very fast rate."
Nathan Ott, 28, of Moncks Corner, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison this past week after pleading guilty to distributing a pill that was sold as Roxy (a street name for Roxicodone, a pharmaceutical drug, which is an opioid that contains oxycodone hydrochloride). The pill Ott sold Read morePill dealer sentenced to 25 years for selling fentanyl-laced tablets
JPMorgan's consumer and commercial banking unit is expanding its Lowcountry footprint with two branch openings in as many weeks while also planning to add more locations in the Upstate and Midlands.

Chase unveiled its first walk-in North Charleston retail office on Nov. 28 at 2089 Ashley Phosphate Road, near the Walmart Supercenter on Rivers Avenue and not far from Northwoods Mall.

On Dec. 5, the bank opened its second Summerville outpost, at 10040 Dorchester Road in Oakbrook Station.

Each location is staffed by seven employees, according to Chase spokeswoman Allison Reed.

In all, the bank has opened nine branches in the Charleston region since making its debut in the Carolinas more than five years ago.

Chase announced in August an aggressive plan to operate 100 retail offices between the two states by 2025, more than double its original goal of 40 set in 2018.

The bank noted that while the industry is shifting toward the use of mobile technology, brick-and-mortar locations still play a crucial role.

"Our goal is to have the right branches in the right communities to serve the financial needs of our customers, said Alfonso Hernandez, director of Chase's coastal Carolina consumer banking market.

The bank has opened 19 retail office locations in South Carolina since 2019. No. 20 is set to open early next year on Garners Ferry Road in Columbia.

At least three more are in the works  two in the Upstate and another near the Statehouse.

According to applications filed with federal regulators last month, Chase wants to take deposits, make loans and offer other financial services at Wade Hampton Boulevard and Suber Road in Taylors and at North Main Street and Tanglewood Drive in Anderson

The third proposed branch would be in the Palms on Main apartment complex at Lady and Assembly streets in downtown Columbia.

Chase also has identified the Myrtle Beach area as a new expansion market for the Palmetto State, though it hasn't yet disclosed any specific Grand Strand locations.
Three new restaurants in the Charleston area will welcome diners after the new year.

In Mount Pleasant, a Pawleys Island-based food vendor will launch a new dining venue on Jan. 3.

Get Carried Away, with its well-known Palmetto Cheese pimento cheese brand, will roll into the former Wild Wings Cafe space in Moultrie Plaza Shopping Center at 644 Coleman Blvd., according to owner Brian Henry.

The outside area, called The Perch, will be open for casual eating and drinking and will offer full service in late winter or early spring.

The site's prepared to-go food offerings include Lowcountry boils, tomato pies, chicken salad, 18 different casseroles, dips, spreads, appetizers, pies, grab-and-go items, sandwiches, salads, soups, daily specials, steaks, chicken, pork, seafood, bread and everyday grocery items such as milk, eggs, butter and produce, craft beer and wine.

Hours will be 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Saturday. When The Perch opens with full service, the business will be open until 9 p.m. Henry also is considering opening on Sundays during the summer.

The interior is still under renovation. Henry is hoping Get Carried Away will open just after the new year begins.

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In Nexton near Summerville, Page's Okra Grill is aiming for a January opening as well. The restaurant at 142 Brighton Park Blvd. is holding interviews 10 a.m.-4 p.m. through Dec. 8 near the food truck off Rose Drive.
A coalition of conservation groups is pushing the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control to change its rules allowing agricultural operators to extract large amounts of water from the state's rivers.

The groups argue DHEC's policy violates a 2010 law that regulates water levels on South Carolina's rivers and streams.

The Surface Water Withdrawal, Permitting Use, and Reporting Act sought to guarantee that South Carolina's rivers maintain a safe minimum flow, and it set new requirements and regulations for large water withdrawers. DHEC was charged with drafting the rules and policies to enforce the law.

Frank Holleman, a senior attorney with the Southern Environmental Law Center, said DHEC violated the 2010 law by creating regulations that allowed large agricultural operations to withdraw unsafe amounts of water. The law center contends the regulations threaten the health of local aquatic plant and animal life, as well as nearby communities that rely on fresh water from South Carolina's rivers.

"The 2010 law was by no means perfect, but it at least guaranteed these minimum flows to ensure that the rivers, at every time of the year, had the base flow to protect their function as a natural resource," Holleman said.

The Law Center is representing three conservation groups  Friends of the Edisto, American Rivers and the South Carolina Wildlife Federation  in the petition.

According to the Dec. 4 petition, farms can withdraw up to 80 percent of a river's average annual daily flow under DHEC's "safe yield" policy.

"That amount of water is not present in South Carolina rivers for most of the year," said Carl Brzorad, a senior associate attorney with the Law Center. "What that means is that these large farms can take all of the water in the river for most of the year."

That claim appears to be bolstered by comments from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency cited in the legal petition.
The sushi restaurant scene has yet to fully develop in Charleston, but the places that have opened continue to wow diners with nigiri and fancy sushi rolls. When looking for quality sushi, these five Charleston restaurants are where to turn.

289 East Bay St., downtown Charleston

Omakase doesnt necessarily translate to a meal solely focused on raw fish. At 167 Sushi Bar, located in the space previously occupied by owner Jesse Sandoles popular Charleston restaurant 167 Raw, guests can be found at one of 24 seats eating an assortment of raw and cooked bites. Those who order an omakase will receive plenty of both.

167 Raws omakase is served alongside an a la carte menu, but if you ask, the chefs will happily start serving their set meal, which draws from the restaurants three-part offering of starters (ichiban), sushi and cooked plates (izakaya).

1035 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Mount Pleasant

Mini mountains of rice are swiped with wasabi before being topped with thin slices of fish at Kanpai Japanese Restaurant in Mount Pleasant. Those bites of nigiri can be ordered a la carte or on a chefs choice platter of eight or 12.
NOTE: Some of these events may have been canceled or postponed. Please check with the organizers. Call 843-873-9424 ext. 220 or email broberts@journalscene.com to add an event to this free calendar. Read moreCommunity calendar
For many years, menopause has been taboo in the workplace. However, the tide is changingfor the betterwith the Australian governments latest inquiry a positive step towards change.

Last month, the Senate referred an inquiry into matters relating to menopause and perimenopause to the Senate Community Affairs References Committee, with the report due in September next year. Whilst investigating a broad range of references, its encouraging to see the inquiry focus on workplace-related issuesincluding reduced participation, awareness amongst employers, and the availability of support.

Here at Workday, we applaud the governments focus on menopause and move to make a real difference in womens lives. Menopause affects around 20% of the global workforce at any time and can be an isolating experience impacting not only personal but professional life.

Up to a quarter of menopausal women experience debilitating symptoms, leading to long-term absences from work or forcing them into early retirement. Earlier this year, the Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees (AIST) increased its estimate of the cost of menopause to more than $15 billion per year in lost earnings and superannuation. This is simply not acceptable. Workplaces have the chance to prevent this brain drain, which often happens when women are at the top of their careers.

The inquiry is a powerful opportunity to spark louder conversation and end stigma and discrimination. Alongside the government, businesses also need comprehensive strategies to ensure inclusivity and support for employees experiencing menopause. With change, we can ensure greater career longevity for women in the workplace and help their emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing.

Menopause support in the workplace

Some may be wondering what businesses can do to help employees experiencing menopause. At Workday, employees are our top priority supporting their belonging and diversity is integral to that beyond just 9-5. We aim to provide our employees with resources that strengthen our culture of inclusion and belonging, including those across varying life stages and experiences.

Last year, we launched Maven Menopause, a program that helps employees better identify and manage symptoms through a dedicated team and digital appointments. It offers dedicated support from providers specialising in the menopause journey, including OB-GYNs, pelvic floor physical therapists, and mental health providers, and ensures people never feel alone.

Its available to team members and their partners, as are many of our other policies.

The team has embraced Maven since its launch last year; 15% of the Australian team signed up to the program, and 30% of those for the menopause services. These are some of the most experienced individuals in the workplacesupporting them means greater longevity for women in the workplace and prevents this wealth of knowledge from leaving altogether.

Our other policies around menopause include holistic health services, tools to create a comfortable working environment and time off to manage symptoms. While everyone experiences menopause differently, businesses must set up accessible, easy-to-use policies.

Going beyond representation

Supporting women in the workplace means supporting women in all life stages. Far too often, the discussion around equity only goes as far as representationlike the number of female leadersand fails to address womens overall experiences within a business. At Workday, were doing what we can to close the gender gap while taking a holistic approach. After all, one size doesnt fit all.

Beyond menopause, weve implemented a range of programs to promote inclusion for women in the workplace. These are underpinned by equityaiming to create equal outcomes rather than treating everyone the sameand backed by technology to measure progress.

These include offering a safe space for all in our Employee Belonging Council, Women @ Workday, the other Maven services for fertility and parenting, as well as Flexible Schedules Policy for caregiving responsibilities, such as a compressed workweek, non-standard work days or part-time schedules. Our 12 weeks of paid parental leave is available to all parents welcoming a new family member, whether birth or adoption, and includes mothers, fathers, same-sex couples, and adoptive parents.

Paving a road for all

Equity is always a work in progress, but we all have the opportunity to lead the charge on change. At Workday, equity is a part of our day-to-day practices; we hire and develop a diverse workforce, foster an employee-first culture and work with our clients (some of the worlds leading brands) to improve their employee engagement and DEI initiatives.

Weve made great progress in our DEI efforts, but we know we can do more and be better. Businesses must prioritise the wellbeing of all employees, especially those facing additional roadblocks. For far too long, people experiencing menopause have navigated it with little support from their workplace. The Senate inquiry is a welcome step on the path to progress.

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The Kingstree Beautification Commission hosted its 2023 Christmas Pallet Contest where community members were encouraged to join together to cut, paint and decorate their pallets in a Christmas theme. Read moreChristmas Pallet Contest winners announced
Colliers International South Carolina, Inc. Board of Directors recently announced leadership changes in electing David M. Feild, CCIM, as its President. John W. Folsom, who has led the company as President for over 30 years, will continue as the companys Chief Executive Officer and Chairman Read moreColliers elects new president
Christopher Gadsden (pictured here) was denied the oath of office by Governor Boone in 1762. He would later serve in the Stamp Act Congress, the First Continental Congress, and, eventually, as a brigadier general in the Continental Army.

Brought to you by the South Carolina Historical Society
CONWAY  A Coastal Carolina University fraternity is facing a five-year suspension for a hazing incident this fall, becoming the 14th frat in the state to be disciplined this semester.

Coastal's chapter of Alpha Chi Rho violated the university's rules with a "potential hazing" incident, according to its Tucker Hipps Transparency Act report for the fall semester.

The chapter has the opportunity to appeal the decision.

The university said the investigation of the fraternity began in March but that the incident happened Oct. 10.

Coastal Carolina spokesman Jerry Rashid declined to elaborate on the incident, saying that any additional information must come through a public records request.

"The situations, actions, or activities that constitute hazing are not consistent with the core values of CCU and are in direct violation of University Policy, the Student Organization Handbook, and the Code of Student Conduct," Rashid said. "All conduct matters are taken very seriously by the University, and those found in violation will face disciplinary sanctions."

Last year, Coastal's chapter of Kappa Sigma was suspended for three years after a fight broke out at an off-campus house involving 11 members of the fraternity.

A Post and Courier review of the fall's Tucker Hipps reports found that six of 14 fraternities at the state's flagship universities were disciplined for hazing.

The law requires all South Carolina public universities to publish a report of misconduct by its fraternities and sororities at least 45 days before the start of the fall and spring semesters.

After The Post and Courier informed Coastal that it missed the 45-day deadline with the spring semester starting on Jan. 8, 2024, Coastal said it would upload its report by Dec. 1.

The university updated its report on Dec. 5, The Post and Courier found.
This story was originally published by ProPublica.

One Saturday morning in September 2022, Terrence Steyer, the dean of the College of Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina, placed an urgent call to a student. Just a year prior, the medical student, Thomas Agostini, had won first place at a university-sponsored event for his graduate research on transgender pediatric patients. He also had been featured in a video on MUSCs website highlighting resources that support the LGBTQ+ community.

Now, Agostini and his once-lauded study had set off a political firestorm. Conservative activists seized on one line in particular in the studys summary  a parenthetical noting the youngest transgender patient to visit MUSCs pediatric endocrinology clinic was 4 years old  and inaccurately claimed that children that young were prescribed hormones as part of a gender transition. Elon Musk amplified the false claim, tweeting, Is it really true that four-year-olds are receiving hormone treatment? That led federal and state lawmakers to frantically ask top MUSC leaders whether the public hospital was in fact helping young children medically transition. The hospital was not; its pediatric transgender patients did not receive hormone therapy before puberty, nor does it offer surgical options to minors.

The deans call went to voicemail. A person familiar with the call shared the voice message with ProPublica.

After reassuring Agostini that he had done nothing wrong and wasnt in trouble, Steyer pressed him for more detail about his research. Im really getting some pressure from the state Legislature and the leadership at MUSC, he said in the message. He asked Agostini to give him in particular the number of people at each age that was seen and the youngest child who received gender-affirming therapy for transgender issues. Agostini declined to comment for this story. Steyer did not respond to a request for comment, but an MUSC spokesperson told ProPublica that Steyer wanted to ensure we had all the facts as the situation was unfolding.
COLUMBIA  South Carolina lawmakers voted to unlock $75 million toward extending Interstate 526 across Johns and James islands, clearing a critical hurdle for the controversial Charleston-area highway loop after years of fits and starts.

Still, despite only a single vote in opposition, several members of the Joint Bond Review Committee expressed reservations about continued funding since the majority of the projects potential $2.35 billion price tag would come from a still-pending sales tax vote to take place next November.

The Dec. 5 vote represents a turning of the corner for the long-discussed highway extension project, which has represented a lightning rod for controversy and debate in Charleston County government circles since the 1970s.

Currently terminating in the Charleston suburb of West Ashley, the proposed 9.5-mile parkway known as the Mark Clark Expressway will span the Stono River through the rapidly growing bedroom communities of Johns Island, then back across the river to James Island, which has experienced similarly large population growth.

Once completed, the project will theoretically improve commuter access into West Ashley and downtown Charleston proper from the growing suburbs while alleviating the commuter burden on local, river-crossing thoroughfares like the Main Road corridor to the north and Maybank Highway to the south.

Charleston County has already spent $117 million on the project and, this past February, voted to commit $75 million to the project in order to secure funding from the state. The South Carolina Transportation Infrastructure Bank had already committed to contribute a maximum amount of $420 million to the project in 2019. Roughly $52 million of that $420 million has already been spent, South Carolina Transportation Investment Bank chairman John B. White said.
BISHOPVILLE  Lee County jurors heard witnesses describe the scene of the 2018 Lee Correctional Institution riot during Dec. 5 testimony at the trial of Michael Juan "Flame" Smith.

Witnesses painted a picture of chaos, storms and injured and dead inmates during the gang brawl between Bloods, Crips and Gangsta Disciples. The riot left seven people dead and dozens injured. It has been described as the most dangerous act of violence in a United States prison in the past 25 years.

Smith, 31, is on trial for a single charge of first-degree assault and battery by mob, one charge of possession of a weapon and one charge of criminal conspiracy.

Smith was an inmate at Lee Correctional Institution following attempted murder and weapons convictions in connection with a shooting that left a University of South Carolina student paralyzed.

Smith said he was defending himself from an attack from a rival gang. However, his sentence and conviction were thrown out when the state Supreme Court granted Smith a new trial.

If convicted, Smith could be sentenced from 30 years to life in prison.

Opening statements

Smith is represented by Columbia-based attorney Aimee Zmroczek.

In her opening arguments, Zmroczek said Smith acted because prison conditions created an environment where no one was safe. She cited smuggling of drugs and cellphones, and weapons being made in the prison as some of the conditions.

Smith fought back against inmate Cornelius McClary, who allegedly slashed a friend of Smith in the throat, leaving blood on Smith.

Zmroczek said Smith pushed McClary down the stairs.

Michael Smith, in the span of 30 seconds, was about to lose his life, acted in self-defense, which he is entitled to, Zmroczek said. And sadly he had to because it was killing season.
COLUMBIA  South Carolinas state treasurer announced Dec. 5 he will stop further investment of the states money in The Walt Disney Company.

Disney has abandoned its fiduciary responsibilities to its investors and customers by joining far-left activists in boycotting legal, taxpaying, employment-creating corporations to further Disneys political agenda, Treasurer Curtis Loftis told his staff, according to a statement released by his office.

Loftis, a Republican first elected treasurer in 2010, was referencing Disneys decision two weeks ago to pause its advertising on X, the social network formerly known as Twitter, Loftis spokeswoman Karen Ingram told The Post and Courier.

Disney pulled its ads after Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of X, called a post claiming Jewish communities push hatred against Whites the actual truth. Musk has since partially walked back that comment.

Disney did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the South Carolina decision.

The state currently has $105 million invested in Disney debt that the treasurers office will allow to mature but not replace, the statement said. The treasurer manages about $41 billion in state funds.

Most of the states current investments in Disneys debt will mature in 24 months, Ingram said.

In recent years, Republican politicians have often accused Disney of being woke or supporting left-wing ideology.

In 2022, Disney took a public stand against Floridas so-called dont say gay law, which banned instruction on sexual orientation before fourth grade in public schools. The company has been feuding with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican presidential candidate, since.

In his Dec. 5 announcement, Loftis criticized the implications of Disneys decision to pull its ads from X.
Recapping a 35-year journey: Vietnams FDI

Billions of U.S. dollars of foreign investment have fueled Vietnams economic growth over the years, but this has also left its economy dependent on outside forces.

By the end of 2022, upwards of 36,000 FDI projects were active with total funds of $441 billion, 57% of which have been disbursed.

Over 35 years, Vietnams registered foreign direct investment (FDI) has grown to US$524 billion from just US$2 million in 1988.

The three big waves of foreign investment over the past 35 years

In 1988, Vietnam's economy started a new chapter with its first-ever FDI project in the southern province of Ba Ria  Vung Tau. For the first few years after that, foreign investors were still hesitant, thus projects and capital only trickled into Vietnam.

By 1991, FDI growth sped up, marking the first big wave of foreign investment, with projects and capital value constantly surpassing previous records.

Many industry giants flocked to Vietnam to outsource their manufacturing, like Taiwanese footwear producers PouChen and Feng Tay, and Japan's Honda with its motorbikes.

The FDI market grew cold with the 1998 Asian financial crisis and did not recover until 2002.

In 2006, Vietnam welcomed its first few billion-dollar projects from American chipmaker Intel and South Korean steel manufacturer Posco, gathering a new record of US$10 billion and marking the second big FDI wave for the country.

Total registered FDI then climbed to a new height of US$72 billion in 2008, the same year in which South Korean conglomerate Samsung  now Vietnams largest foreign investor, began constructing their first factory in Bac Ninh Province.

The 2008 global financial crisis wreaked havoc on Vietnams FDI resulting in actual FDI disbursed fluctuating around US$10-11 billion, much lower than initially committed.

From 2015 to 2019, FDI made a comeback, marking the third big wave of foreign capital, during which FDI did not spike abruptly like in the 2005-2008 period, but grew consistently. The pandemic at the start of 2020 put a halt on cross-border investments, causing FDI to plunge.

After 35 years, South Korea, Singapore and Japan are the three biggest contributors to Vietnams FDI. The U.S. does not even make it into the top 10.

With Vietnam-U.S. relations upgraded to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in early September this year, Vietnam is expected to receive its fourth big wave of FDI with a capital injection from the worlds biggest economy.

Top 10 biggest sources of FDI in Vietnam

Since the start of the 2000s, FDI has slowly become one of the pillars of Vietnams economy.

At present, FDI contributes 19% to the countrys GDP while providing jobs to 35% of its labor force despite only accounting for 3% of businesses.

Among the three engines of Vietnams economic growth, namely investment, domestic consumption, and export, FDI contributes mostly to the latter.

Back in 1995, foreign companies only made up 27% of Vietnams exports, while their domestic counterparts produced 73%.

However, 30 years later, their positions are reversed.

Currently, for six out of the eight main export commodities with sales topping US$10 billion, the FDI sector owns more than 50% of the market share.

Notably, FDI businesses account for around 98% of exports of high-technology products like computers, electronics, mobile phones and spare parts.

The FDI sector is also more efficient than the domestic sector.

For 12 out of the 17 years from 2005 to 2021, FDI surpassed private and public sectors, the two components of the domestic sector, in growth and earning power, despite some large FDI businesses reporting net losses.

Since 2010, the profit margin of the FDI sector has inched ahead of the public sector, and is two to three times higher than private sector.

In terms of workforce, 56% of businesses with more than 1,000 staff are FDI companies, meaning over half of the big companies in Vietnam all some foreign capital.

Attracting FDI does not just contribute to Vietnams growing GDP, it also signifies the countrys increased international collaboration and heightened global status, according to Phan Huu Thang, former director general of the Ministry of Planning and Investments Foreign Investment Agency (FIA).

Thang says FDI has brought plenty of technology and management experiences to help Vietnamese businesses, many of which have since developed their own large projects across various fields, such as real estate, petroleum, transport, and IT.

Nonetheless, some major limitations remain, notably the inefficiency in transferring technology and the lack of collaboration between the FDI sector and domestic counterparts.

Only 13% of FDI companies are joint ventures between foreign investors and local businesses, the rest are 100% foreign-owned.

All technology transfer contracts, around 400 in number, made by FDI companies in the past five years have not involved local companies.

According to Thang, Vietnams supporting industries, a term that encompasses all industries that supply production inputs or intermediate goods, are not developed enough, and the government has not paid enough attention to training a quality labor force and pushing Vietnamese businesses to collaborate with FDI companies.

"If foreign investors are willing to share their technology, who should they transfer it to?" he says.

Thang says that when Honda opened its first factory in Vietnam back in the 1990s, the Japanese company surveyed tens of local mechanical contractors, mostly government-owned companies. However, it could not find a single partner to produce car parts and accessories.

Industrial research expert Nguyen Thi Xuan Thuy believes Vietnam has not fully utilized its opportunities to learn from foreign investors.

Collaboration between FDI and domestic sectors is still unregulated and the number of local companies involved in international supply chains is limited.

Additionally, unregulated FDI projects have left "painful scars," like the Vedan wastewater disposal scandal in Dong Nai back in 2010, the Formosa waste disposal scandal in 2016, or when many FDI factory owners declared bankruptcy and fled Vietnam without paying salaries owed to their workers in 2018.

Even so, Thang stresses that considering Vietnam started out at zero without the infrastructure and superstructure to manage market economy, technology and finance, the 35-year journey on FDI has been a success.

To avoid similar scandals, he suggests the government should adopt a different view, one that focuses more on "cooperating" with foreign companies rather than just "attracting" them, to better utilize FDI.

"While able to attract the shifting global capital flow, Vietnam still has a long way to go if it truly wants another big wave of investment," he adds.

Data sources:

 Data on 2022 foreign investment and export cited from the General Statistics Office of Vietnam and the General Department of Vietnam Customs.

 Information on the three big FDI waves cited from "Lan song au tu truc tiep nuoc ngoai thu ba" ("The third wave of foreign direct investment") study by Prof. Nguyen Mai, president of Vietnams Association of Foreign Invested Enterprises.

Story by Viet Duc, Le Tuyet

Graphics by Hoang Khanh, Thanh Ha


Today the presidents of Harvard, Penn and MIT were summoned before a House committee for questioning about anti-semitism on their campuses. I havent watched the whole testimony, but this clip is getting a lot of attention. Elise Stefanik asks each president whether calling for genocide of the Jews would violate that schools code of conduct with regard to bullying or harassment. None of the witnesses had a clear answer to the question:

The presidents of @Harvard, @MIT, and @Penn were all asked the following question under oath at todays congressional hearing on antisemitism: Does calling for the genocide of Jews violate [your universitys] code of conduct or rules regarding bullying or harassment? The pic.twitter.com/eVlPCHMcVZ  Bill Ackman (@BillAckman) December 5, 2023



The presidents said that calling for genocide could be bullying or harassment, depending on the context. The required context was never made clear. There was a suggestion that a call for genocide would be bullying if directed toward a particular student or group of students, but given the universality implied by genocide, application to a particular individual might seem superfluous.

The presidents also said that it would be bullying or harassment if it turned into conduct. Like actually committing genocide? Stefanik asked. I have no idea what the presidents meant by this. Attempted murder? They didnt say.

The presidents effort here was obviously to preserve their faux role as guardians of free speechits OK if someone just says, in the abstract, that all Jews should be killedwhile acknowledging that problems could ensue, like when actual Jewish MIT students had to seek refuge from a hostile mob in the library.

What is striking to me is how unintelligently these three academics answered Stefaniks questions. There are actually some interesting issues here, which a smart and principled administrator could have spoken about in a compelling way. But these academic hacks had nothing insightful to say, and were just trying to get out of the hearing as fast as they could, smirking all the while. I would only add that a Harvard student who wrote that all blacks should be murderedsay, in a conservative student paper, if Harvard had onewould not have a future at that institution. There would be no discussion of context.

If there are still people who think we should defer to the views of academics because they are smarter than we are, this short video segment should help to disabuse them of that idea.

I may have more to say tomorrow if I have time to watch the entire testimony of these witnesses.
The Biden administration is demanding that Israel take even more extraordinary measures to avoid harming innocent civilians as it tries to eradicate Hamas. Around the world, politicians and others express dismay at the alleged number of innocent civilians who have been killed by Israeli bombardments, even while admitting that Hamass casualty numbers include its own terrorists, people killed by terrorists awol missiles, and so on.

But my complaint is more fundamental. Watching videos of Israeli captives being paraded through Gaza, and seeing civilians spitting on them, hitting them, joyously celebrating their capture, I have asked: where are these innocent civilians we keep hearing about?

In the Times of Israel, Avigdor Liberman makes the point in a column titled Innocents in Gaza? Dont be naive.

[T]here is no shadow of a doubt that among those who took part in the attack on southern Israel, provided the intelligence on the homes of the residents, and led the mob in the second wave of looting and destruction were Gazans who worked in the kibbutz communities they invaded. They earned a living and ate in the homes of the massacred residents, some of whom were the very residents who helped Gazans and their families when they were sick, and took care of transporting them from Gaza to Israel for life-saving treatments in Israeli hospitals.

Meanwhile, scenes within Gaza paint a sickening picture:

Some will say Gazans are afraid of Hamas and that is why we have not heard any condemnation from them, but the scenes we witnessed every evening when our kidnapped were being transferred to the Red Cross and the testimonies of those who have returned from captivity suggest otherwise. Its clear that Hamas has massive support in Gaza: The frenzied crowd jeering and spitting on the abductees, the testimonies of Israeli children who say they were beaten by Gazans of all ages, and the demonstrations of joy and support for terrorists throughout Gaza testify to the cruelty of a populace that educates its children to hate Israel and is raising a new generation of terrorists and supporters of terrorism whose goal is the destruction of the State of Israel and all its citizens. The story of Roni Krivoi, who was kidnapped from the Supernova festival by the bad guys, is a case in point. Roni managed to escape from captivity and hide for a few days until Gazans caught him and returned him to his captors.  Further evidence of the cooperation of the population can be found in the corridors of Shifa Hospital, where the hospital director and other senior doctors helped the terrorists hide hostages and turn the hospital into a haven for terrorists. But its not only in hospitals that you find collaborators, its also in private homes of Gazans, including a reported case of an UNRWA employee, where hostages were held in terrible conditions.

Like people everywhere, Gazans express themselves on social media. No one forces them to publish posts cheering on the massacre of Jews, but that is what they do:

This reality is also reflected on social networks in the Arab world and in Gaza, where an avalanche of posts are words of praise and wall-to-wall support for Hamas and the horrible acts of October 7th. So tell me, where are those innocent people in the Gaza Strip hiding?

The idea that Hamas is the source of Gazas sickness, and that Hamas can be excised leaving a normal society, is false. Hamas is a symptom, not a cause. The root cause of Gazans horrific actions is their culture, which promotes Jew-hatred above all other virtues. Unfortunately, the people of Gaza are suffused with that sick culture and, seemingly with very few exceptions, have bought into it. Calling them civilians doesnt change that reality.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 19:26:08

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REGINA, SK / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Carbon RX Inc. ("Carbon RX") and FrontRunner Technologies Inc. ("FrontRunner") entered into a sales agreement ("Sales Agreement"), pursuant to which Carbon RX will sell its carbon credits to FrontRunner while guaranteeing FrontRunner access to First Nations originated carbon credits to offset the environmental footprint of its digital advertising campaigns globally. The purchase of these carbon credits will support First Nations communities across Canada, and bolster initiatives to combat climate change.According to an article published by CEPSA in 2023, a single advertising campaign generates 70 tons of C02 emissions, the equivalent of 15 passenger vehicles annually.FrontRunner is a proven innovator in the digital out-of-home ("DOOH"), commercial real estate, and retail industries by delivering digital content to High Street WindowFronts in major cities. This Sales Agreement will allow FrontRunner to use Carbon RX branded carbon credits for a New York and LA-based campaign for Caliwater, owned by actors Vanessa Hudgens and Oliver Trevena, and for DoorDash's HoliDifferently campaign running in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver through to the New Year."We recognize we need to do our part to contribute to a greener, more sustainable planet," says FrontRunner's Founder and CEO, Nathan Elliott. "Carbon RX's carbon credits spoke to us based on their environmental impact and, equally important, the social impact for First Nations communities who directly benefit from the revenue. We have a long track record of partnering with First Nations communities, so this is a seminal agreement for our company." There are over 150 million acres of First Nations-managed land in Canada. Carbon RX partners with First Nation communities, offering nature-based solutions to be used as carbon offsets across multiple industries."This deal is about more than offsetting carbon footprints," says Carbon RX's CEO, Marty Seymour. "It's a pathway to enriching First Nations communities in remote parts of our country and giving them the power to heal Mother Earth in ways that are culturally and economically significant." About Carbon RXHeadquartered on Treaty 4 Territory in Regina, SK, Carbon RX specializes in the origination and streaming of carbon credits. Backed by a team of agriculture, forestry, and hydrocarbon experts, Carbon RX provides high-fidelity carbon credits to the international voluntary carbon market, ultimately aiding Canada in the race to net-zero emissions.For more information, visit carbonrx.com About FrontRunner TechnologiesFrontRunner was founded in Canada by Founder and CEO Nathan Elliott in 2017 to create a new standard of digital media by leveraging High Street retail WindowFronts to deliver high-definition video content. The company provides a robust digital out-of-home content solution for national and international brands looking to hyper-target campaigns, while simultaneously creating a new revenue stream for landlords, brokerages and store owners searching for creative ways to monetize their spaces.For more information, frontrunner-tech.com For media inquiriesNathan Elliott(306)-501-4923nelliott@ frontrunner-tech.com Forward Looking StatementsThis news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, which are based upon Delta CleanTech Inc. (" Delta ") and Carbon RX (Delta's subsidiary), current internal expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs and views of future events. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking information. Forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "expect", "likely", "may", "might", "will", "shall", "should", "intend", "anticipate", "project", "contemplate", "continue", "potential", "proposed", "estimate" and other similar words, including negative and grammatical variations thereof, or statements that certain events or conditions "may", "would" or "will" happen, or by discussions of strategy. Forward-looking information include estimates, plans, expectations, opinions, forecasts, projections, targets, guidance, or other statements that are not statements of fact. 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 information, and more specifically, Carbon RX ability to deliver these carbon credits, to continue its good standing and business relationships with First Nation communities, and its business model in general. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking information included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. Carbon RX does not undertake any obligations to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information except as required by securities law.The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.SOURCE: FrontRunner Technologies
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MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Creativity and visual aesthetics play a critical role in how a brand presents itself and communicates with its audience in marketing and advertising. Behind every impactful design and captivating message is a digital graphic designer who works tirelessly to bring the brand's vision to life. In this context, Carlota Combatti has stood out as a professional who embodies creativity and Passion, defining her importance in the industry.Photo Credit: Stefano Dos Santos The role of a digital graphic designer is multifaceted and essential to the success of a brand. From creating content for social networks to designing layouts that attract the audience's attention, digital graphic designers are responsible for transmitting the identity and values of the brand in a visually attractive way. Still, it must also be an image that collaborates with sales, marketing, and branding objectives. Carlota already has a skillful performance that she has achieved over the years. Throughout her career, the designer, initially from Venezuela, has fashion brands such as Oscar de la Renta in her portfolio, transnationals such as PepsiCo, and luxury brands such as Cosentino.Regarding her favorite area in design, Carlota Combatti shared: "Within design, my favorite area is digital, especially the creation of content for social media and layout designs." Her love for this area is reflected in her work, where she experiments with typography and images, fusing them harmoniously and creatively to convey impactful and captivating messages according to the needs of her clients.As a creative, Carlota has her own personality, which is based on her detailed and minimalist approach. She describes it as her "differentiating element." "My meticulous attention to detail allows me to create polished and refined designs," says Carlota. Her designs are characterized by the doctrine of "less is more," transmitting clear and compelling messages with an elegant and essential aesthetic.Creativity and Passion are fundamental elements in Carlota Combatti's work. Her dedication to excellence in digital graphic design has left a significant presence in the industry. It has led global brands to rely on her talent to communicate with their audiences effectively.In an increasingly visual and digital world, the work of digital graphic designers like Carlota Combatti is crucial and becomes even more important when we also include objectives that have to do with the profitability of a product and the purchasing decision of a product. Consumer. They are the visual storytellers who bring brands' stories to life and create emotional connections with the public. For this reason, the Latina consolidates her career with her pillars of creativity and Passion, which lead her to be considered a driving force in contemporary digital graphic design.Contact:Country: United StatesMedia Contact: Gladys Garcia ChangirCompany: Gladys Garcia ChangirEmail: garciachangir@ gmail.comPhone Number: +19082094553Website: https://carlotacombatti.webflow.io/ SOURCE: Gladys Garcia Changir
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 5, 2023 / Empress Royalty Corp. (TSXV:EMPR)(OTCQX:EMPYF) ("Empress Royalty" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that on December 5, 2023, the Company entered into a US$28.5M Accordion Credit Facility (the "Credit Facility") with Nebari Gold Fund 1, LP and Nebari Natural Resources Credit Fund II, LP (collectively, "Nebari"). The Credit Facility will replace the existing US$15M facility that the Company currently has in place with Nebari Natural Resources Credit Fund I LP (the "Initial Facility"). The Company expects to initially drawdown approximately US$3.5M (the "Initial Loan"), the proceeds of which will be used to repay the existing facility and associated costs and provide working capital to the Company. In addition, the accordion feature (the "Accordion Feature") of the Credit Facility allows the Company to drawdown additional amounts under the Credit Facility for future investments."I am pleased to announce we have executed definitive agreements for a new US$28.5M Credit Facility with Nebari," stated Alexandra Woodyer Sherron, CEO and President of Empress Royalty. "We would like to thank Nebari for their continued support of Empress' growth and strategic vision. The refinancing will enable us to execute on our pipeline of opportunities. We are extremely excited for the future of Empress as this facility, combined with our projected revenue from our revenue generating investments, will allow us to further advance our development plans for Empress." Juan Alvarez, Managing Director at Nebari, stated "We are pleased to be extending our support of Empress Royalty in their growth strategy by entering into this Credit Facility and upsizing the Accordion. We are delighted to have seen Empress Royalty develop from a company with one revenue producing streaming and royalty asset to the current three, and we look forward to their continued growth." The Credit Facility shall bear interest at a rate of 7.5% per annum plus 3-month Term SOFR (3.5% floor). An arrangement fee of 2.0% of each draw made under the Credit Facility is payable on closing, together with reimbursement of Nebari's costs for each draw made. In addition, an original issue discount (the "OID") of 4.25% is applicable to all loans made under the Credit Facility resulting in the Initial Principal Amount being approximately US$3.6M. The Credit Facility is secured against the existing investment assets of the Company. The Initial Loan has a term of three years, and any addition draws under the Accordion Feature will have a term of three years from that date of drawdown.On closing of the Initial Loan, the Company will issue to Nebari, a total of 3,104,513 common share purchase warrants (the "Bonus Warrants"), of which 2,535,633 which will replace the share purchase warrants currently issued and outstanding in connection with the Initial Facility. Each Bonus Warrant is exercisable into one common share for a period of three years from the Initial Loan and will be priced at $0.31, which is a nil premium to the 20-day volume weighted average trading price of the Company on the date of signing the agreements (the "Pricing Date") with a floor of the market price on the Pricing Date. Nebari is also entitled to receive additional Bonus Warrants (the "Accordion Bonus Warrants") in connection with any further drawdowns made under the Accordion Feature of the Credit Facility. The issuance of any Accordion Bonus Warrants is subject to the prior approval of the TSX Venture Exchange at the time of issue. All Accordion Bonus Warrants will have a three-year term from the date issue.The terms of the Credit Facility, including the issuance of the Bonus Warrants and the Accordion Bonus Warrants, remains subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. Endeavour Financial acted as Empress Royalty's financial advisor and investment manager.ABOUT NEBARINebari is a private fund focused on financing bespoke debt and convertible debt facilities for public and private companies within the resources sector. Nebari's leadership team has extensive technical, financial, and operational experience with leading global mining companies providing it with a true competitive edge. Nebari is actively seeking to partner with motivated and capable management teams focused on achieving clear plan targets. Nebari is based in Miami and has a team of partners located globally, including in London, Madrid, Zug, and Anchorage. Learn more at: www.nebari.com ABOUT EMPRESS ROYALTY CORP.Empress is a global royalty and streaming creation company providing investors with a diversified portfolio of gold and silver investments. Empress has built a portfolio of precious metal investments and is actively investing in mining companies with development and production stage projects who require additional non-dilutive capital. The Company has strategic partnerships with Endeavour Financial and Terra Capital which allow Empress to not only access global investment opportunities but also bring unique mining finance expertise, deal structuring and access to capital markets. Empress is looking forward to continuously creating value for its shareholders through the proven royalty and streaming models.ON BEHALF OF EMPRESS ROYALTY CORP.Per: Alexandra Woodyer Sherron, CEO and PresidentFor further information, please visit our website at www.empressroyalty.com or contact Kaitlin Taylor, Investor Communications, by email at info@ empressroyalty.com or by phone at +1.604.331.2080.Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.Forward Looking InformationThe information contained herein includes "forward-looking statements" and "forward looking information" as defined under applicable Canadian securities laws ("forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements and information can generally be identified by the use of terms such as "may", "will", "should", "expect", "intend", "estimate" ,"continue", "believe", "plans", "anticipate" or similar terms.Forward-looking information and statements include, but are not limited to, statements or information regarding the Credit Facility with Nebari described herein, and statements with respect to the activities, events or developments that Empress Royalty Corp. ("Empress" or the "Company") expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including those regarding future growth and ability to create new streams or royalties, the development and focus of the Company , its acquisition strategy, the p
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BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / December 5, 2023 / Feinmann, Inc., an award-winning design-build company, announces the creation of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The transition to employee ownership by the 36-year-old company reflects its confidence in the team and https://www.feinmann.com assures long-term stability.It has been the aspiration of Peter Feinmann, President to establish a legacy that would benefit the company long-term, while rewarding the loyalty of its employees. "This change means that our entire crew is genuinely committed to creating homes that are loved by our clients," notes Feinmann. "It has always been our belief that by putting our employees first, productivity, success, and happy clients will follow." Feinmann, Inc.'s newly created Employee Stock Ownership Plan serves as a long-term, wealth-building benefit.By design, the ESOP allows employees to hold stock while they build an equity, ownership stake in the company. The ESOP plan has no out-of-pocket expenses as contributions are made by Feinmann, Inc. for the benefit of all eligible employees. The plan pays out benefits upon retirement or when someone otherwise leaves the company. The longer employees stay with the company, the more contributions are made on their behalf, thus encouraging longevity.The National Center for Employee Ownership, a not-for-profit research organization, estimates that there are only about 6,500 ESOPs in the U.S.; the Small Business Administration (SBA) in Washington, D.C., notes that there are over 32 million small businesses in the U.S. That means, there aren't a lot of ESOP companies.As a distinguished design-build business, Feinmann, Inc. manages all aspects of home remodeling projects. They best serve homeowners seeking inspired designs and luxury home transformations. This streamlined process is implemented under the direction of one team that manages the entire project inclusive of project planning, architectural design, interior design, custom carpentry, construction, and ongoing home maintenance. Employees work together to provide exceptional, quality craftsmanship and innovative designs that continue its history of success. All employees, no matter their job, are encouraged to strive to have a positive impact and to think and act like businesspeople.The ESOP enables Feinmann, Inc. to transition ownership of the company to all employees without selling it to another person or entity. "If someone else had purchased our company, they likely would have changed it, sold off parts of it, or discontinued services," says Peter Feinmann. "Employee ownership enables us to continue operating the business without any changes to our company values. This allows us to sustain our company for the long haul within our community." ~ End ~About Feinmann, Inc.Feinmann was founded in 1987 by president, Peter Feinmann. In the firm's 36-year history, it has completed more than 1,800 projects for over 650 clients. The firm's dedication to innovative designs, a well-articulated process, superb craftsmanship, and respect for its clients' budgets has resulted in Feinmann, Inc. ranking as one of the top design-build firms in Boston, Massachusetts.Photo by: Jess PhotoContact:Debra LaPorteDebra LaPorte Communications978-375-9413debra@ debralaporte.com SOURCE: Feinmann, Inc.
Around the world, we see authoritarian governments that are increasingly intolerant of ideas, beliefs, and practices different than their own, said Uzra Zeya, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights, at a side event during the recent International Religious Freedom or Belief Alliance Ministerial Conference.

These authoritarian governments ignore and undermine internationally recognized human rights, democracy, and the rule of law, noted Under Secretary Zeya, who also serves as U.S. Special Coordinator for Tibetan issues:

The tragic events unfolding in Tibet mark just one example of this troubling dynamic. Tibetan Buddhism  a religion Tibetan Buddhists describe as rooted in compassion, empathy, and non-violence, lies at the heart of Tibets identity and cultural heritage ... And yet, Chinese Communist Party officials, somehow portray this religion of peace as an existential threat to the Peoples Republic of China, or the PRC.

For decades, Under Secretary Zeya said, the PRC has developed a draconian system of repression that aims to Sinicize Tibetan Buddhism:

It seeks to subsume this rich and vibrant spiritual tradition into the PRCs political framework and reshape its core tenets in accordance with the values of the CCP.

Under Secretary Zeya cited the so-called patriotic campaigns that force monks and nuns to pledge loyalty to the Chinese state; the PRCs registry of officially recognized lamas; its clear intention to coopt the succession of His Holiness the Dalai Lama; and the governments restrictions on lay Tibetans, including prohibiting children from participating in religious activities.

I am proud the United States continues to lead in bringing attention to the PRCs human rights abuses, said Under Secretary Zeya:

We will continue to increase international solidarity in support of Tibetans human rights and preservation of their unique cultural, religious, and linguistic identity ... We continue to call on the PRC to resume meaningful and direct dialogue with the Dalai Lama or his representatives, without preconditions, at the highest levels of our government.

The United States resolve is unwavering, declared Under Secretary Zeya, and we will continue to work tirelessly to advance the human rights and dignity of all Tibetans.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 15:02:56

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 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 and Grossman, LLC
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 05:39:30

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Ambitious space-enabled program selected by COP28 Energy Transition team as a Lighthouse Project due to its scope and potential to reduce climate changeABU DHABI, ARAB EMIRATES / ACCESSWIRE / December 5, 2023 / GHGSat, the global leader in emissions monitoring with satellites, today announced a strategic collaboration with Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (ADX: YAHSAT) and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), aimed at reducing methane emissions from the global energy sector.GHGSat Signs Strategic Partnership With Yahsat and ADNOC Supporting the Mitigation of Global Energy The three entities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the Canada-UAE Future Energy Forum, organized by the Canada UAE Business Council in Dubai on 5th December. The new strategic partnership has also been selected by the COP28 Energy Transition team as a Lighthouse Project due to its ambitious scope and potential to reduce climate change.This collaboration marks a significant step forward in fostering environmental sustainability and underscores the commitment of ADNOC, Yahsat, and GHGSat to accelerate positive change in the global fight against climate change by using the latest space technologies.The three signatories will develop the program by making use of their combined assets and expertise, deploying new systems and establishing a Centre of Excellence to create new methane mitigation solutions. National Oil Companies (NOCs) in the Middle East, North Africa (MENA), Central Asia, and beyond will all be able to leverage the capabilities of the program and significantly improve their ability to monitor and prevent greenhouse gas emissions.The program's primary focus will be to leverage the benefits of satellite based environmental solutions to detect and quantify greenhouse gas emissions from methane venting and flaring at oil and gas facilities. This capability, underpinned by the launch of best practice training, will substantially help in the fight against climate change.Ali Al Hashemi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Yahsat, said: "This MoU marks yet another critical milestone in our efforts to promote a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future for everyone. The energy sector is expected to play an important role in helping the world mitigate the impact of climate change. This strategic partnership brings together the brightest minds to find effective solutions to address these challenges. The fact that this has been earmarked as a Lighthouse Project during COP28 underpins its significance and we are proud to be part of it." Stephane Germain, CEO of GHGSat, said: "We are thrilled to join forces with leading UAE organizations such as ADNOC and Yahsat to focus on methane emissions from NOCs in the MENA region and beyond. This strategic partnership will leave a lasting legacy on COP28 in the UAE and create the necessary framework for a tangible, measurable difference in the fight against climate change." Image (back, left to right):H.E Kris Panday, Ambassador of Canada to the United Arab Emirates, Musabbeh Al Kaabi, Co-Chair of the Canada-UAE Business Council and Executive Director of Low Carbon Solutions and International Growth at ADNOC, Hon. Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, H.E Sultan Al Mansoori, Special Envoy for Canada, Government of the United Arab Emirates, Hon. Pierre Fitzgibbon, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy of Quebec, and H.E Fahad Al Raqbani, United Arab Emirates Ambassador to Canada.Image (front, left to right):Ali Al Hashemi, Chief Executive Officer, Yahsat, Khaled Al Blooshi, VP Digital Projects and Innovation, ADNOC, and Stephane Germain, Chief Executive Officer, GHGSat.About YahsatAl Yah Satellite Communications Company PJSC (Yahsat) is a public company listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) and a subsidiary of Mubadala Investment Company PJSC, offering multi-mission satellite services in more than 150 countries across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South America, Asia and Australasia.Yahsat's fleet of five satellites reaches more than 80% of the world's population, enabling critical communications including broadband, broadcasting, backhauling and mobility solutions. Based out of Abu Dhabi in the UAE, Yahsat provides C, Ku, Ka and L-band satellite communications solutions for land, maritime and aero platforms to consumers, governments and enterprises. Its businesses consist of Yahsat Government Solutions, Thuraya, YahClick (powered by Hughes) and YahLink. Yahsat also participates in Hughes do Brasil, an equity partnership with Hughes, and Yahlive, an equity partnership with SES. In 2020, Yahsat commenced construction of Thuraya 4-NGS, the next-generation telecommunications system for Thuraya, which is scheduled for launch in H1 2024 and expected to commence services in H1 2025.For more information, visit www.yahsat.com . Follow us on X: @YahsatOfficial.Legal NoticeLegal Notice and Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking InformationThis announcement includes forward-looking statements, which are based on current expectations and projections about future events. These statements may include, without limitation, words such as "expect", "will", "looking ahead" and any other words and terms of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about the Company and its subsidiaries and its investments, and speak only as at the date of this announcement. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions of future events and information currently available to the Company which may not prove to be accurate and the Company does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy or fairness thereof and expressly disclaims any obligation to update any such forward-looking statement. No representation or warranty is made that any forward-looking statement will come to pass. You are therefore cautioned not to place any undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For further information regarding forward-looking statements, and the factors that may cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, please refer to our Annual Report for 2021, which is available on our website at https://www.yahsat.com/Reports/2022/index.html The amount and payment of dividends by the Group is subject to consideration by the Board of Directors of the cash management requirements of the Group for operating expenses, interest expense, and anticipated capital expenditures, and market conditions, the then current operating environment in its markets, and the Board of Directors' outlook for the business
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Award-winning philanthropist and business tycoon George Stamas, AM, leaves an indelible impact on the cleaning industry and is crowned with Queen's last Australia Day award for his major contributions to multiple philanthropic efforts in business and his community.MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / George Stamas, the owner and director of the phenomenal establishment GJK Facility Services, has been recognised with Queen Elizabeth's last Australia Day award, presented to him by Governor General Linda Dessau in Governor House, grounding his 30 years of service devoted to charities and efforts to uplift society. George Stamas initiated his career as an occasional cleaner and progressively elevated his position to the top management and ownership of GJK Facility Services in 1987. Under his prudent leadership, GJK Facility Services blossomed from a new enterprise to an industry giant, employing over 3,000 people across Australia and New Zealand.George Stamas innovatively led GJK into a joint venture with the Victorian State Government and the Brotherhood of St. Lawrence, culminating in a groundbreaking pilot project that brought employment to 35-40 long-term unemployed public housing tenants in Melbourne's inner suburbs. This commendable project garnered praise from Harvard University and was honoured with the esteemed H. Bruce Russell Global Innovators Award for Community Redevelopment. His influential strides in the management and cleaning Industry have also earned him major commendations, including the "Excellence in Sustainability Business Award, City of Yarra" in 2012 and the "Australian Business Award" for Community Contribution in 2011.Beyond his business success, George Stamas, AM, has held key roles in several governmental and non-profit organizations. He is a member of the Business to Business Conduct Study Group, CEO Forum for Disability Action Plan Framework and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management. Stamas' board appointments include Director of GJK Indigenous Solutions Killara Indigenous Facility Services, Alternate Director of AustralianSuper, Ex Finance Director of Facility Management Association of Australia, and he was recently awarded the Prestigious Life Member Award of FMA Association, where he donated his expertise for over 18 years. He is a trustworthy member of Epworth Medical Foundation's Board of Trustees.His membership in the Order of Australia in 2022 is a testament to his meaningful contributions to society. George Stamas, AM, is also known for his commendable contributions to Bridge of Hope for homeless children. His commitment to sparking positive change in society, enhancing the standard of living in communities, and fostering the growth of other professionals is unrivalled.George Stamas, AM, also supports Lighthouse Foundation, helping displaced women and their families through his successful company GJK Facility Services, which staff give their time to contribute to helping this charity. George Stamas and GJK Facility Services also support The Kids Cancer Project, helping find a cure for kids' brain cancer in Australia.George Stamas, AM, and his entire team at GJK Facility Services continue to transform businesses and society at large. It's this spirit of philanthropy and excellence that made him the recipient of the prestigious award. His dedication and strong work ethic continue to inspire upcoming entrepreneurs in Australia and beyond.Giving back and doing good has always been part of GJK's DNA, thanks to our founder and managing director, George Stamas, and this program just takes this to the next level, enabling our employees to participate and give back too.For three decades, GJK Facility Services has invested in initiatives and programs that benefit the wider community, fostering sustainable outcomes that have positive social impacts. To date, a generous portion of this work in the community has been philanthropic - donations to support the purchase of equipment, scholarship programs, and the like.GJK Facility Services launched its new social impact program, GJK Giving Back, with one of the program's partners, Lighthouse Foundation. Built around four pillars; Philanthropic, Volunteering, Workplace Giving and Employment, the program has been designed so GJK employees can get involved."Working with charities, not-for-profits and organisations we already support, like the Lighthouse Foundation, the GJK Giving Back program will build on these relationships to create shared value partnerships," said CEO Elias Stamas. "Giving back and doing good has always been part of GJK's DNA thanks to our Founder and Managing Director, George Stamas, and this program just takes this to the next level, enabling our employees to participate and give back too." Lighthouse Foundation provides homes and therapeutic care programs to children and young people impacted by long-term neglect, abuse, and homelessness. Their focus is to create caring communities where kids can feel safe, create meaningful relationships, and begin to heal from traumatic relationships. Lighthouse relies heavily on the support of its corporate partners to allow them to continue to provide the life-changing work they do with Australia's most vulnerable kids."It's integral for Lighthouse to have these purposeful partnerships with organisations, exactly like with GJK, so we can continue to deliver the care programs necessary for young people to heal," Dr. Eamonn McCarthy, CEO of Lighthouse Foundation, says. "We wouldn't be able to do it without them." Lighthouse's impact on young kids in the homelessness space speaks for itself. Eight out of 10 children who go through Lighthouse never return to the streets, and for every $1 invested, there is a $12 return of investment for the community. They have proudly changed the lives of 1,000+ young people.The GJK Giving Back program also involves the Kids Cancer Project, SuperTee, The Hunger Project, Epworth Foundation and Bridge of Hope.In the words of Winston Churchill - "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give".Contact InformationMedia Relations GJK Facility Services Media info@ gjkfacilityservices.com.au 1800635983SOURCE: GJK Facility Services
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LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Blue Ridge Bankshares, Inc. ("Blue Ridge" or "the Company") (NYSE AMerican:BRBS) for violations of the securities laws.The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Blue Ridge disclosed on October 31, 2023, that "audited financial statements included in the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, and unaudited interim financial statements included in quarterly reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2023 and June 30, 2023 should no longer be relied upon and will be restated." The Company added, "the effect of the adjustments will result in lower net income and earnings per share in the year ended December 31, 2022." Based on this news, shares of Blue Ridge fell by more than 33.6% on the next day.If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 1880 Century Park East, Suite 404, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com , or by email at bschall@ schallfirm.com The class in this case has not yet been certified, and until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member.The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.CONTACT:The Schall Law FirmBrian Schall, Esq.www.schallfirm.comOffice: 310-301-3335info@ schallfirm.com SOURCE: The Schall Law Firm
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HAGENS BERMAN Encourages CHPT Investors with Substantial Losses to Contact Firm's AttorneysSAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / December 5, 2023 / Hagens Berman urges ChargePoint Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:CHPT) investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now.Class Period: June 1, 2023 - Nov. 16, 2023Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Jan. 29, 2024Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/CHPT Contact An Attorney Now: CHPT@ hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895ChargePoint Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CHPT) Securities Fraud Class Action:The complaint alleges that Defendants misrepresented and concealed that: (1) ChargePoint was experiencing higher component costs and supply overruns for first generation DC charging products; (2) that, as a result, the Company was likely to incur impairment charges; (3) that, as a result of the foregoing, the Company's profitability would be adversely impacted; and (4) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.The truth began to emerge on Sep. 6, 2023, when ChargePoint reported its 2Q 2024 financial results, including a "$28.0 million, or 19 percentage point, inventory impairment charge." The Company stated the "inventory impairment charge was taken to address legacy supply chain-related costs and supply overruns on a particular DC product." As a result, the Company reported quarterly GAAP gross margin of 1%, down from 17% in the prior year's same quarter.Then, on Nov. 16, 2023, ChargePoint announced preliminary Q3 2024 financial results, which would include an "additional non-cash inventory impairment charge" in the amount of $42 million "related to product transitions and to better align inventory with current demand." As a result, the Company expectedto report "GAAP gross margin of negative 23% to negative 21%." The Company also reported revenue had fallen to "$108 million to $113 million, as compared to $150 to $165 million as previously expected." Moreover, ChargePoint announced the abrupt departures of its CEO (Pasquale Romano) and, at the request of its board, its CFO (Rex S. Jackson).These events caused the price of ChargePoint shares to drop sharply."We're focused on investors' losses and are investigating whether ChargePoint may have misrepresented product demand and omitted to disclose rising inventory costs," said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.If you invested in ChargePoint and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firm's investigation, submit your losses now If you'd like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the ChargePoint case and our investigation, read more Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding ChargePoint should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email CHPT@ hbsslaw.com # # #About Hagens BermanHagens Berman is a global plaintiffs' rights complex litigation law firm focusing on corporate accountability through class-action law. The firm is home to a robust securities litigation practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and fraud. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com . Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw.Attorney advertising.Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices.Contact: Reed Kathrein, 844-916-0895SOURCE: Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP
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Hagens Berman, National Trial Attorneys, Encourages FSR Investors with Substantial Losses to Contact Firm's AttorneysSAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / December 5, 2023 / Hagens Berman urges Fisker Inc. (NYSE:FSR) investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now.Class Period: Aug. 4, 2023 - Nov. 20, 2023Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Jan. 26, 2024Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/FSR Contact An Attorney Now: FSR@ hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895Fisker Inc. (NYSE: FSR) Securities Fraud Class Action:The complaint alleges that Defendants misrepresented and concealed: (1) that Fisker had a material weakness in its internal control over financial reporting; (2) that Fisker had incorrectly accounted for certain costs; (3) that as a result the Company was likely to delay filing its quarterly report; (4) that Fisker's infrastructure was limiting its ability to deliver its production; and (5) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements during the Class Period about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.The truth began to emerge on Nov. 8, 2023, when Fisker announced that it was delaying its Q3 2023 earnings release until after markets close on Nov. 13, 2023. Fisker blamed the delay on the unexplained departure of its, now former, Chief Accounting Officer John Finnucan on Oct. 27, 2023 and the appointment of a replacement effective Nov. 6, 2023.Then, on Nov. 13, 2023, Fisker released dismal Q3 2023 results, reporting that it lost $91 million in the third quarter and generated revenues of only $71.8 million, well below analysts' expectations. In addition, the company failed to provide production guidance. It further revealed that material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting prevented it from timely filing its quarterly report with the SEC.On Nov. 20, 2023, The Wall Street Journal reported that Fisker has lost another Chief Accounting Officer. According to the WSJ, Florus Beuting, who was named to the post in early Nov., resigned from the company last Tuesday (a day after Fisker reported Q3 results) and noted that Fisker has yet to publicly disclose Beuting's departure.Finally, on Nov. 22, 2023, the Company filed its Q3 2023 quarterly report on Form 10-Q, which disclosed that the Company had "identified approximately $20 million of expenses" which were "incorrectly recorded primarily as selling, general and administrative expenses in our preliminary earnings results, but were later determined to be associated with production set-up activities" and that "other inventory adjustments were recorded resulting in a $4.0 million increase in net loss subsequent to the preliminary earnings results." These events caused FSR shares to decline sharply."We're focused on investors' losses and are investigating whether Defendants made intentionally false statements concerning Fisker's internal controls over financial reporting" said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.If you invested in Fisker and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firm's investigation, submit your losses now If you'd like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the Fisker case and our investigation, read more Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding Fisker should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email FSR@ hbsslaw.com # # #About Hagens BermanHagens Berman is a global plaintiffs' rights complex litigation law firm focusing on corporate accountability through class-action law. The firm is home to a robust securities litigation practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and fraud. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com . Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw.Attorney advertising.Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices.Contact: Reed Kathrein, 844-916-0895SOURCE: Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 22:00:31

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Dynamic New Brokerage is Pioneering Change in Canadian Real Estate Through Knowledge, Integrity, and CommunityTORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / President and Co Founder Ron McIntosh announces the grand opening of KIC Realty Inc (KIC) on January 1st, 2024. KIC stands for the core values of this innovative new Canadian Real Estate firm, namely Knowledge, Integrity, and Community.Knowledge, the leadership team has decades of success in the real estate business and look forward to Leading their agents/partners. Integrity fosters a culture of transparent communication, and Community. Each agent and staff member will own a piece of the company in the form of stock giving them a stake in the company's success.KIC Realty is a Canadian Brokerage Built by Canadians for Canadians. One of the primary goals of the brokerage is to smoothly handle the agents' transactions. KIC Realty is all about Canadian culture. This means they have a unique perspective, understanding, and knowledge about the nuanced challenges faced by agents in their market. When Canadians work with Canadians, your real estate brand and career goals becomes our shared mission. KIC Realty serves as the welcoming environment for Canadian Agents, a place that celebrates their accomplishments while embracing the essence of a genuine Canadian perspective.KIC Realty is currently offering for sale up to 6,000,000 Class B Common Shares at 15 per share via Private Placement. The offering is expected to raise a maximum of $900,000. KIC's Agents and staff will be given first priority to purchase shares. Valuing transparency, the 15 is the company's intrinsic value based on projected revenue of $2,100,000 in 2024, at a calculated multiple of approximately 1.5 times Projected Revenue and 11 Net Income.KIC Realty has initiated a Revenue Share system where 30% of commission revenue from Agents will be allocated to the Revenue Share Fund. This Fund will distribute based on a Referral Reward matrix, where 5 eligible Agents from the upline of the transacting Agent is rewarded. If one of your Frontline Agents (FLAs) refers an Agent, you will receive the Tier 2 reward in addition to Tier 1, and so on, up to Tier 5. KICs unique Revenue Share Fund will distribute all remaining balances of the Funds at the end of each fiscal year as a dividend to its shareholders.KIC President and Co-founder Ron McIntosh couldn't be prouder of the future forward model they have built, "I firmly believe you should stick with people who saw your potential when everyone else counted you out." For more information, visit their website at https://kicrealty.com/ ABOUT KIC REALTYExperience a unique venture at KIC Realty, where our Agent focused private placement financings and Agent Retirement Savings Plan (ARSE) opens doors to a community-driven investment experience. Enjoy the perks and returns of a venture firmly grounded in solid values. Join us in shaping the future of real estate investment. While other agencies may have a similar structure, KIC Realty is perfecting the model. Add to that a strong commitment to serve their community, the founders have built a cloud-based brokerage hybrid that feels like a bricks and mortar.KIC Realty is an agent and client focused organization. Founded by CEO Willie Ip, President Ron McIntosh, CFO Michele Bouchard and Director, and Director, EVP-Investor Relations, Michael Tam. Willie is a disruptor with a track record of successful innovation in Canadian real estate, and Ron has been a leading figure in Ontario real estate for over 3 decades. Michelle has been a broker owner for 25 years, and a successful accountant for 30, and Michael is a veteran of venture capital and investment with over 30 years of building shareholder value.Embark on a transformative investment journey with KIC Realty. We are an innovative realty brokerage leading the change in a market moving towards profitability. We are focused on building an opportunity for Canadian agents to thrive in production, residual income, and equity on the ground floor. Redefine success with them through agility, innovation, and trust, and become part of a community reshaping industry norms. Apply to be a part of their community today.CONTACT: Ron McIntosh President-Co FounderPHONE: 416-801-9573EMAIL: ron.mcintosh@kicrealty.com SOURCE: KIC Realty Inc.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 19:04:00

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / CloserStill Media and the Learning Guild shared program information for their newly expanded Learning & HR Tech Solutions Conference and Expo today.Leaders in learning and HR technology will gather at the Rosen Centre in Orlando, Florida from April 23-25, 2024 for this transformative event. Produced by the organizers of HR & Learning Technologies in London & Paris and Zukunft Personal in Cologne, Hamburg, and Stuttgart, this event will serve the full talent development ecosystem, offering a unique platform for professionals seeking to stay at the forefront of Learning and HR Technology.The Conference will feature 150+ carefully curated sessions covering hot topics for Learning and HR professionals separately, as well as topics that transcend the two disciplines including:AI & AutomationCompany CultureDiversity, Equity & InclusionInstructional DesignMicro & Workflow LearningRemote WorkThe Learning Guild is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP recertification activities.The free-to-attend Expo on April 23-24 includes:100+ Solution Providers: Leading Learning & HR technology vendors and start-ups will showcase cutting-edge solutions.45+ Expo Stage Sessions: Gain insights, strategies, and best practices for navigating the Learning and HR technology landscape.Keynotes: Maurice Conti, will explore the unique challenges and opportunities for HR and L&D professionals in the age of AI, and star of ABC's Shark Tank, Daymond John, will discuss strategies for fostering an entrepreneurial mindset in Talent Development."We are thrilled to host this expanded event for the industry community," said David Kelly, CEO of the Learning Guild. "The world of work is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advances and an increased focus on culture and engagement. Our goal with Learning & HR Tech Solutions is to create a space for learning and HR professionals to prepare themselves for changes shaping the future of talent development." Registrants receive the best rate on Conference passes through December 15, 2023. Attendees who invite colleagues save more with a group discount. Vendors that secure their booth before December 15, will also save. Start-ups are eligible for exclusive opportunities to display their products to attendees.For the latest announcements or additional information, visit LearningHRTech.com About Learning Guild:The Learning Guild is a community of practice for those supporting the design, development, strategy, and management of organizational learning. Our goal is to create a place where learning professionals can share their knowledge, expertise, and ideas to build a better industry-and better learning experiences-for everyone.About CloserStill Media:CloserStill Media runs market leading business exhibitions in the learning, human resources, healthcare, technology, and veterinary sectors. We have events in London, Birmingham, Paris, Berlin, New York, Singapore, Las Vegas, Austin, Orlando, Chicago, Reno, Frankfurt, Koln, Madrid, Barcelona, and Marbella. Our portfolio includes some of the fastest growing and often award-winning events including the London Vet Show, Cloud Expo Europe, Data Centre World, The Pharmacy Show, Learning Technologies, HR Technologies, DevLearn, Zukunft Personal, and The Dentistry Show.Contact InformationDavid Kelly CEO, The Learning Guild dkelly@ learningguild.com Danielle Vastola Event Director, New Ventures d.vastola@ closerstillmedia.com SOURCE: CloserStill Media
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 19:30:21

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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / AcreBy Gurmeet ChopraLow staffing levels in the natural environment sector is threatening climate crisis targets, according to a new study.The survey, conducted by trade union Prospect, which supports and represents scientists, engineers, tech experts and other specialist roles, has unveiled new findings which revealed members' concerns about working in nature and environmental roles.The sector, which plays a vital role in delivering on the government's net zero and nature commitment, is suffering due to the reduction of expert staffing in the past 12 months.More than 500 professionals took part in the survey, from a broad range of organisations including National Trust, Natural England, the Joint Nature Conservation Committee, and the Environment Agency. Several devolved bodies in Scotland and Wales, which are all prominent Prospect branches, also took part in the research.More than 40 per cent of workers reported that expert staffing levels had been cut back in the last year, with more than two-thirds believing staff numbers overall were too low and half reported vacancies within their teams.The negative impact of this is increased workloads for staff, with tasks also being assigned to untrained staff.What are the main survey highlights?Low pay Despite the roles requiring a certain level of skill, around 38 per cent of respondents earn 30,000 or less while 35 per cent earn between 30,000 and 40,000. The survey also revealed more women are affected by low pay in the sectorEnvironmental preservation challenges Government policy is the main obstacle to achieving net zero and protecting the natural environment, according to 37 per cent of those who took part in the study. 27 per cent believed economic factors play a key role and 16 per cent cited behaviours and reluctance to change as other issues that need addressing.Challenges in the last 12 months Some 57 per cent of respondents said changes in job roles (leading to increased administration) have played a big part, while 42 per cent said reduced expert staff and tasks being assigned to untrained staff (36 per cent) have caused problems within the sector. Increased workloads and staff turnover have also become problematic.Staffing concerns A staggering 69 per cent noted staff levels were too low with 52 per cent highlighting vacancies in their team. Despite this, 52 per cent of respondents have seen a reduced level of specialist personnel and a lack of leadership by senior management.Sue Ferns, Senior Deputy General Secretary of Prospect, said: "The insights provided by our expert members are invaluable to understanding what is happening on the front line of the fight to tackle the climate crisis."They are telling us that the paring back of expert roles in their teams is leaving them increasingly burnt out."Despite the government talking up the potential of green jobs, it is failing to put in place the funding needed to make working in the natural environment the aspirational career that it should be." Gurmeet Chopra, Consultant - Sustainable Business at Acre UK, said: "These findings are very concerning, particularly at a time when exceptional talent is required to drive forward solutions to align with the climate agenda."The sector needs a diverse mix of experts - individuals who can hone their skills and collaborate with the rest of the team to unpack the challenges surrounding the natural environment, but lack of funding remains a key stumbling block."The government must find a way to boost this sector which plays a crucial role in mitigating the climate emergency before it is too late." About AcreAt Acre, we work with the most aspirational businesses with potential to make real change; from those who are just starting out to those who are well on the journey to crafting a legacy.Our 18 years' experience in sustainability recruitment, combined with our extensive global network, enables us to provide talent solutions that are designed to deliver this change.Through our unique behavioural assessment technology, we understand the types of people, skills and behaviours required to create impact. We can develop these qualities within your existing teams too.We find talented people and develop their skills to ensure they make a true impact in ambitious, progressive organisations.Acre. Making companies ready for tomorrow.View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Acre on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: AcreWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/acre Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Acre
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 15:26:52

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HALIFAX, NS / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Namibia Critical Metals Inc. ("Namibia Critical Metals" or the "Company" or "NCMI") (TSXV:NMI)(OTCQB:NMREF) is pleased to announce the completion of the final phase of drilling for its Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) on the "Lofdal 2B-4" heavy rare earth project.In total, infill and resource expansion drilling for the PFS phase amounts to 10,823 m in 56 boreholes drilled over the last months. The final drill phase entailed seven very deep reverse circulation (RC) boreholes for 2,597 m in the Area 4 main deposit. While five boreholes represent infill boreholes in the deeper part of the central Area 4 deposit, two of the boreholes aimed at resource expansion at the newly established mineralized zone in the western part of the Area 4 deposit (see press release of 8 September 2023).Darrin Campbell, President of Namibia Critical Metals, stated:"The finalization of all planned drilling is another major step forward for our "Lofdal 2B-4" heavy rare earth project. The main aim of the drilling campaign was to significantly increase the measured and indicated resource categories to comply with the requirements of a PFS. Beyond this, field logging supports our concept of an extension of the orebody in the southwestern part of Area 4 which demonstrates the potential to unlock further mineralization in future. We expect to receive the assays in January 2024 and an updated resource statement in February 2024. Our Namibian in-country team managing the project has done a fantastic job in executing a very successful and cost-effective drill campaign." Figure 1: RC drill rig of Prinsloo Drilling at the final drill position in the western part of Area 4PFS Infill and Expansion Drilling Campaign 2023Drilling was conducted at both, Area 2B and Area 4, in two phases between February and November 2023. In total, 10,823 m were drilled by reverse circulation (RC drilling) in 56 boreholes (see table 1).The last 7 boreholes, completed in November 2023, were drilled into the deeper western part of the mineralization at Area 4 (figure 1) with end-of-hole (EOH) depths between 325 and 401 m. These deep holes aimed at both, infill drilling for the current pit shell and resource expansion drilling following the newly discovered thick and high-grade HREE-mineralized zone further to the southwest.Figure 2: Drill collar positions of the PFS infill drilling campaign at Area 4 main deposit and outline of potential expansions of the final open pitMore than 1100 samples were collected from the last seven boreholes and submitted for ICP analysis to Actlabs by end of November 2023. Results are expected by mid-January 2024.Jeremy Witley of The MSA Group was contracted as QP for the drilling and sampling activities and confirmed that the processes and standards for the exploration are appropriate for the style of mineralization at Lofdal and that acceptable QAQC protocols have been implemented.MSA was also contracted to produce an updated Mineral Resource Estimate for the Lofdal 2B-4 project which is expected to be released by end-February 2024.Table 1: Summary statistics of the 2023 infill and resource expansion drilling campaign at the Lofdal sub deposits Area 2B and Area 4About Namibia Critical Metals Inc.NCMI is developing the Tier-1 Heavy Rare Earth Project, Lofdal, a globally significant deposit of the heavy rare earth metals dysprosium and terbium. Demand for these critical metals used in permanent magnets for electric vehicles, wind turbines and other electronics is driven by innovations linked to energy and technology transformations. The geopolitical risks associated with sourcing many of these metals has become a repeated concern for manufacturers and end users. Namibia is a proven and stable mining jurisdiction.The Lofdal Project is fully permitted with a 25-year Mining License and is under a Joint Venture Agreement with Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC).The Company filed a robust updated PEA for "Lofdal 2B-4" on November 14, 2022, with a post-tax NPV of USD$391 million and an annual IRR of 28% with a capital expenditure of USD$207 million. The project is projected to generate a life of mine nominal cash flow of USD$698 million post-tax over a 16-year mine life.About Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) and the JVJOGMEC is a Japanese government independent administrative agency which seeks to secure stable resource supplies for Japan. JOGMEC has a strong reputation as a long term, strategic partner in mineral projects globally. JOGMEC facilitates opportunities with Japanese private companies to secure supplies of natural resources for the benefit of the country's economic development.Rare earth elements are of critical importance to Japanese industrial interests and JOGMEC has extensive experience with all aspects of the sector. JOGMEC provided Lynas with USD$250,000,000 in loans and equity in 2011 to ensure supplies of the Light Rare Earths metals suite to the Japanese industry.Namibia Critical Metals owns a 95% interest in the Lofdal project with the remaining 5% held for the benefit of historically disadvantaged Namibians. The terms of the JOGMEC joint venture agreement with the Company stipulate that JOGMEC provides C$3,000,000 in Term 1 and C$7,000,000 in Term 2 to earn a 40% interest in the Lofdal project. Term 3 calls for a further C$10,000,000 of expenditures to earn an additional 10% interest. JOGMEC can also purchase another 1% for C$5,000,000 and has first right of refusal to fully fund the project through to commercial production and to purchase all production at market prices. The collective interests of NCMI and historically disadvantaged Namibians cannot be diluted below a 26% carried working interest upon payment of C$5,000,000 to JOGMEC for the dilution protection. NMI may elect to participate up to a maximum of 44% by funding pro rata after the earn in period is completed.To date, JOGMEC has completed Term 2 and earned a 40% interest by reaching the C$10 million expenditure requirement. JOGMEC has approved an additional C$1,800,000 budget for Term 3 through to March 31, 2024, totaling C$11,800,000.Other exploration projects: The Company's Exclusive Prospecting Licenses ("EPLs") prospective for gold are located in the Central Namibian Gold Belt which hosts a number of significant orogenic gold deposits including the Navachab Gold Mine, the Otjikoto Gold Mine and the Twin Hills deposit. At the Erongo Gold Project, stratigraphic equivalents to the meta-sediments hosting the Osino gold discovery at Twin Hills have been identified and exploration is progressing over this highly prospective area. The Grootfontein Base Metal and Gold Project has potential for mag
On July 18, Russia made the unconscionable decision to pull out of the Black Sea Grain initiative. Since then, the Kremlins campaign of relentless attacks on Ukraines Black Sea and Danube river ports have damaged more than 160 civilian infrastructure facilities and destroyed more than 300,000 tons of grain, said USAID Administrator Samantha Power at the Second International Grain from Ukraine Summit.

These are obviously not military targets. The Russian military is carrying out a very deliberate strategy: attempting to destroy Ukrainian livelihoods, tank the Ukrainian economy, and deploy hunger as a weapon of war  exacerbating the global food crisis and inflicting further pain on communities around the world who are already struggling to get enough to eat, she said.

But the United States will not let that happen, said Administrator Power:

In July 2022, USAID launched AGRI-Ukraine to bolster Ukraines agricultural production and help Ukraines farmers continue feeding the world in the face of Russias unprovoked war. To date, weve invested $350 million, mobilized an additional $250 million from partners, and we are now seeking to galvanize an additional $250 million in support from the private sector, foundations, and other donors.

The results of this work are remarkable, said Administrator Power:

In partnership with the Ukrainian government and the transport and logistics industry, we are helping build up alternative transport routes via road, via rail, via river port. We are providing grain elevators and loading equipment that helps speed the process of getting grain onto transport. We are helping increase the capacity of ports along the Danube River. And over the next three years, USAID will help upgrade border crossing points to export more grain.

In addition, we have helped create 1.5 million metric tons of grain storage that has helped thousands of Ukrainian farmers keep their grain from rotting as it waits to ship.

Moreover, private sector partners like Bayer and Corteva have helped provide over 30 percent of Ukraines farmers the financing, seeds, and fertilizer that they need to plant their next harvests.

These investments are going to help Ukraines farmers stand up to Russias aggression, said Administrator Power. But theyre also an investment in Ukraine's long term future  in the breadbasket that will help feed the world for generations to come.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 00:40:46

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HAGENS BERMAN, NATIONAL TRIAL ATTORNEYS, Encourages NATI Investors Who Sold NATI Shares Before Jan. 17, 2023 to Contact FirmSAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / December 5, 2023 / Hagens Berman urges National Instruments Corporation (NATI) investors who sold NATI shares before Jan. 17, 2023 below the acquisition price to submit your losses now.Class: Investors who sold NATI from May 25, 2022 - Jan. 17, 2023Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Jan. 29, 2024Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/NATI Contact An Attorney Now: NATI@ hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895National Instruments Corporation (NATI) Securities Fraud Class Action:"We're focused on investors' losses and are investigating whether NATI may have intentionally misled investors about the Emerson offers," said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.The complaint alleges that NATI: (1) deceived the investing public about its prospects; (2) artificially inflated the market price of NATI common stock; and (3) caused investors to sell shares of NATI at artificially deflated prices.On Jan. 13, 2023, NATI announced that it initiated a review and evaluation of strategic options to maximize shareholder value, adopted a poison pill, and disclaimed that this process would result in a specific transaction. Notably, NATI did not reveal that it already had a significant offer in hand from Emerson Electric to acquire all outstanding NATI shares at a premium purchase price.Investors learned the truth on Jan. 17, 2023, when Emerson announced an eight-month timeline of previous acquisition communications to NATI. Emerson revealed that it had offered $48/share on May 25, 2023, that it subsequently increased the offer to $53/share on Nov. 3, 2022, and that it reiterated the increased offer on Jan. 11, 2023. Emerson also revealed how, in response to its offer, NATI had increased its financial guidance despite its continued margin expansion and other challenges.This news drove the price of NATI shares skyrocketing up to as much as $54.69/share on Jan. 17, 2023.Then, on April 12, 2023, Emerson announced that it entered into a definitive agreement to acquire NATI for $60/share in cash at an equity value of $8.2 billion, representing a premium of nearly 50% over NATI's closing price on Jan. 12, 2023. The deal closed on Oct. 11, 2023.If you invested in NATI and sold your shares before Jan. 17, 2023 or have knowledge that may assist the firm's investigation, submit your losses now If you'd like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the NATI case and our investigation, read more Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding NATI should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email NATI@ hbsslaw.com # # #About Hagens BermanHagens Berman is a global plaintiffs' rights complex litigation law firm focusing on corporate accountability through class-action law. The firm is home to a robust securities litigation practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and fraud. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com . Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw.Attorney advertising.Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices.Contact: Reed Kathrein, 844-916-0895SOURCE: Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 02:06:19

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NEWPORT BEACH, CA / ACCESSWIRE / December 5, 2023 / Choosing the right plastic surgeon is a pivotal decision. One that requires careful consideration of the surgeon's expertise, the range of cosmetic procedures they offer, and their reputation within the community. Newport Beach, one of California's coastal gems, is renowned for its wide selection of highly skilled plastic surgeons. These medical professionals are known for their ability to enhance natural beauty while ensuring patient safety and satisfaction. Dr. Brandon Richland, MD has become a standout among plastic surgeons in Newport Beach and Southern California.Dr. Brandon Richland, MD (pictured above) is a board-certified Newport Beach plastic surgeon in California. Image Credit: RichlandMD.com"Choosing the right surgeon involves assessing their qualifications, the procedures they offer, and their practice's approach to patient care. We've had many great patient success stories of overwhelming feedback from their positive experience with us, before, during, and after their plastic surgery procedures here in Newport Beach and our nearby Fountain Valley corporate office," said Dr. Brandon Richland, MD.Dr. Richland is a well-known and respected Board-Certified Licensed Plastic Surgeon in Newport Beach / Orange County / Southern California that specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. He is dedicated to helping both women and men look and feel their absolute best.Among the esteemed plastic surgeons in Newport Beach, Dr. Brandon Richland, MD stands out for his commitment to precision and patient care. Whether patients are seeking transformative body contouring or subtle facial enhancements, they can expect state-of-the-art techniques and a warm, patient-centric approach. Dr. Richland's practice integrates cutting-edge technology with compassionate patient interactions, allowing for personalized treatment plans and optimum results.Why Choose a Newport Beach Plastic Surgeon?When deciding on plastic surgery, one often looks for a combination of professional expertise and an inviting location. Newport Beach surgeons offer both, set within the scenic beauty of Southern California.Dr. Brandon Richland, a renowned name in Newport Beach plastic surgery, has established himself as one of the best cosmetic surgeons in the area. His clinic is a hub for both surgical and non-surgical treatments, offering a full range of services tailored to enhance self-confidence and help patients become the best version of themselves.Location Advantages of Newport Beach, CaliforniaNewport Beach, California, stands as a premier destination with its pristine beaches and luxurious lifestyle. It provides the perfect serene backdrop for recovery and relaxation post-surgery. It boasts state-of-the-art facilities that thrive in an environment where innovation and a commitment to excellence are the norm. Patients often find that the surroundings contribute positively to their recuperation and state of mind during what can be a pivotal journey.This Southern California coastal city is located in Orange County, with Los Angeles County to the north and San Diego County to the south. 83,993 residents live in the City of Newport Beach, while Newport Beach tourism visitors far exceed residents on an annual basis.Community Presence Within Orange County (OC)Being part of Orange County, surgeons in Newport Beach have a significant community presence, highlighted by their engagement in local health and wellness events. They benefit from being part of a network of medical professionals noted for high standards of patient care. This translates into a personalized and supportive experience for their patients, embodying the community's ethos of care and professionalism.Meet Dr. Brandon Richland, MD: Cutting-Edge Plastic Surgeon in Newport BeachDr. Brandon Richland, MD stands as a preeminent figure in the field of plastic surgery, with a practice that is synonymous with precision, innovation, and compassionate care in the heart of Newport Beach, California.Board-Certified Plastic SurgeonHe is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in a broad range of procedures aimed at enhancing both form and function. His expertise extends to intricate techniques in facial rejuvenation, breast surgeries, and advanced body contouring.Patients seeking a transformative experience can rely on Dr. Richland's strong patient advocacy and individualized approach to care. His dedication ensures that each procedure is tailored specifically to the patient's unique goals.Nestled in the scenic locale of Newport Beach, his state-of-the-art practice combines a serene environment with cutting-edge technology. His commitment to excellence is reflected not only in his surgical outcomes and patient care, but also in the meticulous attention to detail at his well-appointed office, designed to provide a first-class experience for his patients.Dr. Brandon Richland, MD's lobby. Image Credit: RichlandMD.comAbout the Medical Practice of Dr. Brandon Richland, MDAt the heart of Newport Beach, California, the medical practice of Dr. Brandon Richland, a board-certified plastic surgeon, is dedicated to offering state-of-the-art cosmetic procedures and personalized care.They have two office locations to serve patients.1. Newport Beach Office: 455 Old Newport Blvd, Suite 101, Newport Beach CA 92663.2. Corporate Main Office: 9900 Talbert Ave, Suite 101, Fountain Valley CA 92708.Patient-Centric MissionThe mission of Dr. Richland's practice is to provide patients with the highest quality plastic surgery options in a comfortable, safe, and ethical environment. They are committed to enhancing patient well-being by delivering tailored care that ensures each individual's aesthetic goals are met with technical excellence and artistic interpretation.The Team Behind Dr. Brandon Richland, MDAt Dr. Brandon Richland's practice, a team of highly skilled and dedicated aesthetic professionals works tirelessly to provide exceptional care and service to their patients. Each team member brings a unique set of skills and experiences, contributing to the practice's reputation for excellence in the field of plastic surgery and medical aesthetics.Chelsea Mac, an Aesthetic Nurse with a BSN and RN, with over 17 years of experience in the medical aesthetics industry, Chelsea specializes in laser and injectable solutions. Her approach is centered on providing personalized care that aims to achieve vibrant skin and boost patient confidence through both preventative and restorative procedures.Cassandra, an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner holding an MSN, APRN, and FNP-C, brings a solid foundation in nursing to the team. Cassandra is particularly skilled in
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 14:02:24

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BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / NOA Lithium Brines Inc. (TSX-V:NOAL) ("NOA" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that mining claims covering 38,676 hectares ("ha") at the Arizaro salar and 8,088 ha at the Tolillar salar, located in Salta province, Argentina have been officially registered in the name of a wholly owned subsidiary of NOAin the Mining Cadastre of the Province of Salta, pending final granting as mining concessions.The 12 new Arizaro claims, known as Hilario XII to Hilario XXIII, consolidate one single block of contiguous claims, and will result in the Company holding a total of 77,704 ha of mining claims at the Arizaro salar.At Tolillar, the 3 new claims, known as Ema II, Ema III and Ema VI, are located west of the Company's current Tolillar claims, and expand the Company's mining rights in this salar to a total of 10,836 ha.With these new mining claims, NOA now controls more than 140,000 ha in the Lithium Triangle in Argentina, of which more than 120,000 ha are located in the Rio Grande, Arizaro and Salinas Grandes salars, which represent the Company's three highest-priority assets.Gabriel Rubacha, Chief Executive Officer and Director of NOA, stated, "The new claims in Arizaro nearly double our current land position in this salar, and provide a new opportunity for further exploration and development of this project. With the addition of these claims, NOA holds one of the largest land positions by a single company in the Arizaro salar. The well-known exploration potential of the Arizaro salar and our extensive land position in this area provides a great opportunity for NOA to continue to explore this region, following the completion of our successful exploration efforts at our flagship Rio Grande project. The initial drilling campaign at Rio Grande will be completed by year end and we are on schedule to release our maiden resource at Rio Grande in early 2024".Maps showing NOA's current land holdings at both the Arizaro and Tolillar salars, including the newly acquired claims, can be found in Maps 1 and 2 below.Map 1 - Arizaro Project Claim MapMap 2 -Tolillar Project Claim MapAbout NOA Lithium Brines Inc.NOA is a lithium exploration and development company formed to acquire assets with significant resource potential. All NOA's projects are in the heart of the prolific Lithium Triangle, in the mining-friendly province of Salta, Argentina, near a multitude of projects and operations owned by some of the largest players in the lithium industry. NOA has rapidly consolidated one of the largest lithium brine claim portfolios in this region that is not owned by a producing company, with key positions on three prospective salars (Rio Grande, Arizaro, Salinas Grandes) and totalling over 140,000 hectares.On Behalf of the Board of Directors,Gabriel RubachaChief Executive Officer and DirectorFor Further Information on the CompanyWebsite: www.noalithium.comEmail: info@ noalithium.comTelephone: +54-9-11-5060-4709Alternative Telephone: +1-403-571-8013Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsThis news release may include forward-looking statements that are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. All statements within this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements including, but not limited to NOA's future plans and objectives regarding its projects, which constitute forward looking information that involve various risks and uncertainties. Although NOA 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 described in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements include fluctuations in market prices, including metal prices, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. NOA does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required under applicable laws.Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.SOURCE: NOA Lithium Brines Inc.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 14:01:04

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Streamlined Workflows, Effortless Reporting, and Enhanced Signal Management Empower Go-To-Market Teams with Actionable Insights and Greater Pipeline VisibilityATLANTA, GA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Revenue Grid, a leading revenue operations and intelligence platform for global sales teams, today announced new industry-first features and enhancements designed to improve sales productivity and streamline collaborative workflows. Revenue Grid's Winter 23 product release enables organizations to harness the power of AI and world-class data-capturing technology to unlock revenue opportunities and discover actionable insights.New Features and Enhancements Include:Streamlined Workflows with Centralized and Actionable SignalsAutomated Best Practices Through Signals LibraryEffortless Report Sharing for Team AlignmentEnhanced CRM Integration with Lightning Out"In today's highly competitive business environment, the need for data-driven decision-making has never been more important," said Vlad Voskresensky, Co-founder of Revenue Grid. "Our Winter Release enhancements reinforce our commitment to enable global sales teams to boost sales performance to extraordinary new levels. We are dedicated to continuous innovation to empower organizations to use the power of AI and our world-leading data-capturing technology to unlock revenue opportunities." New Platform Enhancements: Winter Release 2023Manage Workflow from One Location: Centralized Signals Control: Revenue Grid's Generative Signals capability is unparalleled in the industry, with distinctive features that are not only actionable, customizable, and generative but also extremely fast, with the ability to recommend tailored content to individual users. Generative Signals provides instant AI summaries of opportunities, status, next steps, and personalized action items-now all consolidated within a unified view that taps into historical work and CRM data. The unified Signals view elevates workflow efficiency, boosts productivity, and enhances customer engagement. Automated email threading empowers teams to compose emails effortlessly with precision and efficiency.Signals Library: Unlock Best Practices, Simplify Actions: AI advancements boost Revenue Grid's Revenue Signals capability to turn sales data into actionable alerts and actions rapidly. Teams can browse the Signals Library, a collection of dedicated best practices for every sales persona, to explore, configure, and unlock valuable automation. For instance, AI-powered Signals analyze customer communications to ensure a customer's request isn't overlooked, while another Signal examines deal patterns and flags timely opportunities so they aren't lost. An Opportunity Signal uses AI to evaluate deal information and summarize key updates, stage changes, meeting history, and next steps. In addition to numerous enhancements to Library offerings, teams can now more easily integrate Signals into the Revenue Grid environment with Signals Builder.Share and Integrate Reports Seamlessly: Enhanced Report Collaboration: Sales teams can optimize the sales workflow and maximize efficiency through streamlined report collaboration. New features foster alignment through shared reports, enabling RevOps to seamlessly integrate and validate data and optimize sales processes for greater efficiency. New features would allow teams to tailor reports to each user's needs and align with individual preferences and workflow.Enhanced CRM Integration: Lightning Out for Customized Workflows: Revenue Grid's new release incorporates Salesforce Lightning Out, streamlining the integration of Salesforce functionalities into external web pages or applications. By leveraging this feature, Revenue Grid's "Sidebar" - a cloud application that provides two-way data synchronization between a CRM system and an Exchange mailbox - enables direct data input into Salesforce. The input aligns with a company's business processes without leaving Gmail or Outlook.For more information, visit www.revenuegrid.com About Revenue GridRevenue Grid is a revenue intelligence platform that helps businesses identify and prevent revenue leaks at any stage of the revenue generation process. Revenue Grid fights revenue leaks by automatically capturing all relevant sales activities, analyzing data with AI, implementing changes to sales processes with Revenue Signals, and measuring the effectiveness of those changes. Organizations as diverse as Hilton, Western Union, Moody's, Trip Advisor, Red Cross, and Robert Half have chosen Revenue Grid thanks to its customizability and enterprise-readiness. Revenue Grid is a private company headquartered in Atlanta, GA. To learn more, visit revenuegrid.com MEDIA CONTACTS:North AmericaLiz YoungsEmail: lizyoungs@ triercompany.comPhone: +1 843-412-6327EMEAMichael HarringtonEmail: michael@ triercompany.comPhone: +011-44-770-090-0061SOURCE: Revenue Grid
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 09:01:19

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December, 6, 2023 / Ximen Mining Corp. (TSXV:XIM)(FRA:1XMA)(OTCQB:XXMMF) (the "Company" or "Ximen") announces initial information from its seventh drill hole at the Amelia Gold project in Camp McKinney near Rock Creek in southern BC.Drilling at Amelia project in October 2023.Drilling was done to prove-up extensions to the historic Cariboo-Amelia gold mine in Camp McKinney in the Greenwood Mining Division, BC. The Cariboo-Amelia mine was BC's first dividend paying gold mine. Over its 68-year history, the mine produced 81,602 ounces of gold and 32,439 ounces of silver from 112,254 tonnes milled (BC Minfile Records). The mine is situated within a 4-kilometer system of gold-quartz veins and historic workings.View of 3D model of Cariboo mine (looking North) showing vein blocks and current drill holes.The 2023 drill holes are testing the main McKinney vein beneath the eastern end of the historic mine. After the seventh drill holes was completed, a total of 1,846 meters of NQ sized core was drilled. The target vein was intersected in four holes (AM23-01, 03, 05 and 07) between 30 and 45 meters below the lowest mine level and over a strike length of 150 meters.The mineralized intercepts range in core length from 0.26 meters to 0.70 meters and contain pyrite, sphalerite, galena and chalcopyrite. Although visible gold hasn't been observed, this sulphide mineral assemblage is the same as that reported to occur in the vein where it was mined historically. Core samples will be sent for analysis once the geological logging and sampling is completed.HoleFromToLength (m) MineralizationAM23-01218.02218.630.61Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, Gn, CpAM23-03230.80231.060.26Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, Gn, CpAM23-05214.55215.250.70Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, CpAM23-07194.60194.810.21Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, GnAM23-07195.71195.990.28Quartz Vein with Py, Po, Sp, GnAM23-07215.47215.660.19Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, GnAM23-07217.64217.760.32Quartz Vein with Py, Po, Sp, GnAbbreviations: Py: pyrite, Sp: sphalerite, Gn: galena, Cp: chalcopyriteNote: Reported lengths are core lengths not true widths.Core Photos:Close-up photo of sulphide mineralization intersected in holes AM23-07; galena, PbS (silvery grey) and sphalerite ZnS (brown). Width of view is about 10 cm.Holes AM23-03, 04, 05 also intersected a second mineralized vein about 50 meters south of the main vein that is also mineralized with pathfinder minerals. Its extent has yet to be determined.Holes AM23-02, 04 and 06 targeted the zone at greater depths but did not intersect the vein. It is likely that the vein has been displaced by faults similar to those which occur in the upper levels of the mine, where the vein is displaced a relatively short distance to the south by flat lying faults.Overall, the results indicate there is potential for more tonnes to be mined below the lowest level of the mine workings and that there is potential for additional material in parallel zones.Readers are cautioned that historical records referred to in this News Release have been examined but not verified by a Qualified Person. Further work is required to verify that historical records referred to in this News Release are accurate.Dr. Mathew Ball, P.Geo., VP Exploration for Ximen Mining Corp. and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, approved the technical information contained in this News Release.On behalf of the Board of Directors,"Christopher R. Anderson"Christopher R. Anderson, President, CEO and Director 604 488-3900Investor Relations: 604-488-3900,ir@ XimenMiningCorp.com About Ximen Mining Corp.Ximen Mining Corp. owns 100% interest in three of its precious metal projects located in southern BC. Ximen`s two Gold projects, The Amelia Gold Mine and The Brett Epithermal Gold Project. Ximen also owns the Treasure Mountain Silver Project adjacent to the past producing Huldra Silver Mine. Currently, the Treasure Mountain Silver Project is under an option agreement. The option partner is making annual staged cash and stocks payments as well as funding the development of the project. The company has also acquired control of the Kenville Gold mine near Nelson British Columbia which comes with surface and underground rights, buildings and equipment.Ximen is a publicly listed company trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol XIM, in the USA under the symbol XXMMF, and in Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin Stock Exchanges in Germany under the symbol 1XMA and WKN with the number as A2JBKL.This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the receipt of TSX Venture Exchange approval and the exercise of the Option by Ximen. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts; they are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "aims," "potential," "goal," "objective," "prospective," and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "can," "could" or "should" occur, or are those statements, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include the possibility that the TSX Venture Exchange may not accept the proposed transaction in a timely manner, if at all. The reader is urged to refer to the Company's reports, publicly available through the Canadian Securities Administrators' System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) at www.sedar.com for a more complete discussion of such risk factors
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ELMSFORD, NY / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / DLC, one of the country's largest private owners, operators, and managers of open-air retail, has raised institutional capital through a strategic commitment of growth capital from Temerity Strategic Partners (TSP). This will enable DLC to take advantage of the current market dislocation and capitalize a robust pipeline of acquisitions, it was announced today.Shopping Center Giant DLC Raises Institutional Capital to Take Advantage of Market DislocationThe announcement comes on the heels of DLC closing a $100 million acquisition of four open-air shopping centers across the United States last week at a time, when transactional activity in the retail space is at a record low. Earlier this year, DLC closed on the $46.5 million acquisition of Brookside Center, an hour's drive from New York City in Bridgeport, CT.Adam Ifshin, CEO, founded DLC more than three decades ago, and he says the capital infusion will drive the firm to grow materially while doing what they do best: unlocking value in retail real estate."We are all-in on playing offense: we buy when nobody else buys, and we are able to sell in a market when most investors are sitting on the sidelines," said Ifshin. "We know from every cycle we've weathered in the 32 years since I started DLC that the best time to buy is at the bottom, when the market is coming through a period of significant disruption. And that's why we've proactively raised this capital now, to enable us to grow our assets by $2 billion and lean into what we believe will be an outstanding vintage of acquisitions. This is the time to be aggressive, and we're leading the charge." Bruce Cohen, co-founder and CEO of TSP, said, "We are excited to partner with Adam and the entire DLC team. We believe DLC is a great fit for our capital as they have a proven ability to execute in a sector that has long been out of favor with institutional capital. Open-air retail has proven resilient, and we believe investment dollars will start to rotate back into the space. DLC has attracted a robust stable of sophisticated institutional capital and we hope that Temerity Strategic's capital, relationships, and resources will help DLC take advantage of this opportunity." About DLC: DLC is one of the nation's preeminent private retail real estate companies, with expertise in acquisitions, development, architecture, leasing and management. Headquartered in Metro New York, DLC has regional operations in Atlanta, Buffalo, Chicago, Dallas, and Washington, D.C. For additional information about DLC and its portfolio, please visit www.dlcmgmt.com About Temerity Strategic Partners: Temerity Strategic Partners is a Chicago-based private equity firm with a focused strategy of providing growth capital to real estate operating, development, and asset management companies on behalf of its principals and a distinguished group of private and institutional investors. TSP provides growth capital, strategic resources and access to its extensive relationships to support rapidly growing, market-leading real estate owners and operators executing development, value-add and core-plus strategies throughout the United States. Founded by industry veterans Bruce Cohen and Jeff Citrin, TSP leverages its experience in building, capitalizing and investing in preeminent real estate operating platforms to support the pursuit of their long-term objectives. For additional information, please visit www.temeritystrategic.com Contact Information:Michael St. John Vice President, Marketing mstjohn@ dlcmgmt.com 914.406.7622Holly Amaya holly@ storyimprinting.com (619) 573-7224SOURCE: DLC
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 16:20:21

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MIDDLETON, WI / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Springs Window Fashions, a leading global provider of custom window coverings, named Oscar Bolanos as Chief Operating Officer. The announcement was made by Springs Window Fashions President and Chief Executive Officer Jason Bingham.Bringing an extensive manufacturing background spanning over 25 years in the United States, Mexico and Europe, Bolanos assumes a vital role in spearheading operational efficiency and leading strategic initiatives throughout the Springs organization. His duties encompass optimizing manufacturing processes, elevating supply chain management, and ensuring consistently flawless delivery to customers."It is exciting to welcome Oscar to the Springs team," said Bingham. "His proven track record of operational excellence and leadership skills make him an ideal fit for this critical role. Oscar's expertise will be instrumental in advancing our ongoing commitment to providing the best experience for our customers and associates." Before joining Springs, Bolanos was Vice President Operations at Forvia - a leading global supplier in the automotive industry. Prior to this, he had a 20-year tenure at Bosch auto parts, where he took on progressively larger leadership roles in the operations function - most recently as the Vice President Operations with responsibility for their starter and generator division's manufacturing plants in Mexico.Bolanos holds an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering and a post-graduate degree in Quality and Productivity from the Universidad de Tecnologica de Mexico.ABOUT SPRINGS WINDOW FASHIONSSprings Window Fashions, the Best Experience Company, is a leading global supplier of blinds, shades, specialty treatments and window hardware. Its Bali, Graber, Horizons, SWFcontract, Mecho, Mariak, and SunSetter brands are sold through retailers and distributors within North America. In Europe, the company manufactures and sells products through its B&C International division. Based in Middleton, WI, Springs has facilities worldwide and employs more than 9,000 associates. For more information, visit www.springswindowfashions.com CONTACT INFORMATION:MowerJenna Bush212.284.9936 jbush@ mower.com SOURCE: Springs Window Fashions
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 15:31:25

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Clean Harvest Farms, a Pioneering Start-Up Specializing in Vertical Hydroponic Farming, Announces the Appointment of Suzy Monford to its Board of DirectorsDEVINE, TX / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Clean Harvest Farms, a pioneering start-up specializing in vertical hydroponic farming, announces the appointment of Suzy Monford to its Board of Directors.Suzy Monford Suzy Monford, CEO Food Sport, International Retail Advisory, has joined Clean Harvest Farms' Board of Directors. Monford brings substantial expertise in sustainable agriculture, food innovation and business leadership. With a deep background in the food industry, Monford has demonstrated a commitment to promoting environmentally conscious practices and fostering innovation within the agricultural sector.As a member of the Clean Harvest Farms Board of Directors, Monford will play a crucial role in guiding the strategic direction of the company, leveraging her extensive experience to contribute valuable insights and perspectives. Located in Devine, Texas, Clean Harvest Farms aims to revolutionize agriculture by using state-of-the-art vertical hydroponic technology to grow fresh, nutrient-rich produce in a controlled and sustainable environment."We are excited to welcome Monford to our Board of Directors," said Michael Seringer, founder and CEO of Clean Harvest Farms. "Suzy's passion for sustainable agriculture and her proven track record in the food industry make her a valuable addition to our team. We believe her strategic vision and commitment to innovation will significantly contribute to the growth and success of Clean Harvest Farms." "I am honored to be a part of Clean Harvest Farms, a company at the forefront of sustainable agriculture," Monford said. "I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at Clean Harvest Farms to drive innovation, foster environmental stewardship and contribute to the future of food production." About Clean Harvest Farms:Clean Harvest Farms is a Texas-based start-up specializing in vertical hydroponic cultivation. The company is committed to revolutionizing agriculture by harnessing cutting-edge technology to produce fresh, nutrient-dense crops in an environmentally sustainable manner. Clean Harvest Farms aims to provide local communities with access to premium, locally grown produce while minimizing the ecological footprint associated with traditional farming practices.Contact InformationMichael Seringer Founder/CEO cleanharvestfarms@ gmail.com 2102596999Related FilesSOURCE: Clean Harvest Farms
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Top Five Conveyor Car Wash Company Expands Footprint in Florida, North Carolina, New York, and TennesseeTHOMASTON, GA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Tidal Wave Auto Spa, one of the nation's fastest-growing express car wash companies, opened four brand-new locations on Wednesday, December 6th, in St. Petersburg, FL, Wilmington, NC, Queensbury, NY, and Cordova, TN.To celebrate the Grand Openings, each of the new Tidal Wave locations is offering eight days of free car washes from December 6-December 13. This limited-time promotion provides an opportunity for car owners living 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 at these locations will enjoy their first month of unlimited washes for only $9.97 - for savings up to $40."We're not just expanding our footprint with these new locations - we're transforming the way these communities experience car care," said founder and CEO Scott Blackstock. "Our conveyor car wash system makes getting a car wash easy, efficient, and enjoyable - plus, each of these new washes are built with our industry-leading technology to provide the shiniest car. From the Sunshine State to the Empire State and beyond, we're excited to redefine the car wash experience and look forward to providing customers with clean car happiness for years to come." 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. The company 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.St. Petersburg, FL Location: 2600 34th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713Nearby locations: BradentonWilmington, NC Location: 8005 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28411Nearby locations: Wilmington (Carolina Beach Rd)Queensbury, NY Location: 708 Quaker Rd, Queensbury, NY 12804Nearby locations: South Glens FallsCordova, TN Location: 1650 N Germantown Pkwy, Cordova, TN 38016Nearby locations: MillingtonTidal Wave Auto Spa currently operates 14 Florida locations, 20 North Carolina locations, two New York locations, and 20 Tennessee locations, with plans for continued expansion in each state in the coming months. For additional information, including upcoming new locations, 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 216 locations operating in 23 states across the South, Midwest, and Northern United 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 Andrea Traylor Senior Director of Digital Marketing andrea.traylor@tidalwaveautospa.com 2058212220SOURCE: Tidal Wave Auto Spa
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New EV chargers to promote a more sustainable transportation systemSouthern CompanyATLANTA, GA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / U.S. Army Garrison Eisenhower and Georgia Power, a Southern Company subsidiary, have partnered on a strategic objective to accelerate the access, adoption and usage of electric vehicle (EV) charging throughout the installation.The utility privatization (UP) contract entered into by Georgia Power with Fort Eisenhower will see the company own, maintain and manage the EV infrastructure and charging program at the installation. The first phase of this objective will involve scaling 14 strategic locations within Fort Eisenhower with the necessary infrastructure to support EV chargers. The construction portion of the project, with a total cost of $1.6 million, is scheduled to begin by the end of 2023.This investment is part of the broader UP contract with Georgia Power serving as the owner of Fort Eisenhower's electric utility system. Accelerating electric framework investments under this contract serves to address the evolving energy needs of Fort Eisenhower while also reducing its carbon footprint."We are extremely happy to be partnering with Georgia Power for this project," said Col. Reginald K. Evans, U.S. Army Garrison Eisenhower Commander. "Building the electric vehicle infrastructure now allows Fort Eisenhower to get chargers in place ahead of government EV fleet growth expected in the near future." The new electric infrastructure will bring a variety of benefits, including increased availability of EV charging stations to support the needs of government vehicles assigned to and entering Fort Eisenhower. This will reduce reliance on fossil fuels thus minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, further supporting the resiliency and decarbonization efforts of the Department of Defense installations to meet the requirements of Executive Order 14057."This initiative reflects the shared commitment of Georgia Power and Fort Eisenhower to investing in resilient electric grid enhancements that facilitate sustainable energy solutions," said Chris Cummiskey, executive vice president and chief commercial officer for Southern Company. "We're honored to partner with Fort Eisenhower and are confident the infrastructure put in place today will benefit the installation well into the future." About Southern Company Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy distribution company with national capabilities, a fiber optics network and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience and sustainability, we are taking action to meet customers' and communities' needs while advancing our goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture and hiring practices have earned the company national awards and recognition from numerous organizations, including Forbes, The Military Times, DiversityInc, Black Enterprise, J.D. Power, Fortune, Human Rights Campaign and more. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com About Georgia Power Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America's premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company's promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook ( Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower) , Twitter ( Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram ( Instagram.com/ga_power) View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Southern Company on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: Southern CompanyWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/southern-companyEmail: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Southern Company
Like Adam Sandler sang in numerous versions of his Chanukah Song, the Jewish holiday that begins Thursday at sundown and ends at sundown Friday, Dec. 15, is known as the Festival of Lights.

Heres a look at what thats all about, why everyone in Elko should take a turn spinning a dreidel during the holidays eight crazy nights  and what a dreidel is, for that matter.

Although the history of Hanukkah commemorates the David and Goliath victory of a determined group of Jewish ragtag revolutionaries against the massive Greek forces, it commemorates much more than that, said Dr. Gary Branfman, a member of a small-town Southern congregation. Hanukkah celebrates the eternal light and spirit of Judaism. It signifies the never-ending quest to extinguish the plague of racism and the inability to extinguish the flame of Judaism. The menorah reminds us that darkness is not an entity. It is the absence of light.

The holiday, which is not mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, dates to 164 B.C. and marks the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, of which one section is now known as the Wailing Wall, or Western Wall, where written prayers are left, folded, in crevices between earthen bricks.

The story involves a siege surrounding the temple in the second century and then an occupation by Greek warriors; battle elephants (yes, battle elephants); a revolt by the Maccabees; the temples reclamation and rededication; and only enough olive oil to keep the temples Eternal Flame  which illuminates the most holy portions of the temple  ablaze for one day.

A messenger sent to retrieve more oil took eight days to return and, in that time, the single days worth of oil enabled the flame to glow the entire time  seen as a miracle in its time and not just a good carbon footprint. That was enough of a tale, however, to keep the holiday story burning through the centuries.

Today, Hanukkah is celebrated as a family time, with food, gifts, candle-lighting, prayers and spinning a top, called a dreidel.

Whats a dreidel?

A popular childrens song says a dreidel is made of clay, but today theyre most often made of wood or plastic.

The top has four sides, each represented by a letter of the Hebrew alphabet  nun, gimmel, hey, shin.

Its actually a gambling game, not too unlike playing craps with dice. When the dreidel lands on nun, the player gets nothing; on gimmel, the player gets the whole pot of coins; on hey, the player gets half the pot; and on shin the player must toss a coin into the pot.

Why candles?

Eight candles on the menorah, which for Hanukkah is called a hanukkiyah, represent the eight days of oil burning in the Second Temple.

The ninth candle, generally in the center of the hanukkiyah, is used to light the others.

Using oil today would be hazardous, so beginning around the 1920s in North America, candles were used as a replacement. In some European cities, this didnt change until much later.

Prayers are generally sung before the candles are lit each night of the holiday.

Battle elephants, really?

It is believed that elephants were deployed by the ancient Greeks to fight for control of the Second Temple in Jerusalem.

The website ohr.edus column Ask the Rabbi explains that the Book of Maccabees tells of ancient Greek armies coming against the Israelites with armored elephants.

It is known from other historical sources as well that the Greeks used elephants in warfare, the site explains. They were the ancient tanks.

Whether an armored tank today or one with four legs and tusks in ancient times, the confrontations cant be fun.

Whats a latke?

A potato latke  known in the United States as a potato pancake  is a traditional dish served during Hanukkah.

Its said potato pancakes, because they are fried in pans of oil, are symbolic of the olive oil used to light the Eternal Flame in the old temple.

Others say the original latke was really a plate of cheese that, when served with wine to an opposing general, put him to sleep and allowed the Israelites to sever his head and display it to his soldiers, who then fled in fear.

Either way, the potato variety today is often served with applesauce and has nothing to do with headaches over opposing generals.

Chocolate money?

Yeah, its a thing.

Kids in the U.S., and now around the world, have been receiving Hanukkah gelt since the 1800s.

On each night of Hanukkah, a child lights another candle on the hanukkiyah and is then given a gift. Those gifts often are accompanied by gelt, the Yiddish word for money.

Over the years, children have shown their appreciation for candy, so in the middle of the last century, enterprising entrepreneurs came up with the idea of foil-wrapped candy coins. The trend continues into this century as well.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-07 00:00:15

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Revolutionizing Startup Ecosystems with a Focus on Latin American Innovation and ExpertiseCORAL SPRINGS, FL / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / In the heart of the ever-evolving startup landscape, Webstarted boldly takes the lead in revolutionizing talent acquisition and remote recruiting, with a keen focus on unleashing the untapped potential of Latin America. As the startup ecosystem thrives on innovation, mentorship, and networking, Webstarted's strategic approach is set to redefine the trajectory of businesses in the region.Latin America stands as an untapped reservoir of talent, offering a vibrant blend of cultural richness, linguistic diversity, and a varied skill set. With emerging tech hubs, educational institutions fostering innovation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and a cost-effective workforce, the region has become a powerhouse of potential for global businesses seeking a competitive edge.Webstarted, at the forefront of this transformative journey, has embarked on a mission to integrate Latin American talent seamlessly into the global startup ecosystem. Recognizing the diversity in talent and the economic advantages Latin America offers, Webstarted positions itself as a key player in connecting businesses with top-tier professionals from the region.Going beyond traditional recruitment, Webstarted specializes in creating and managing distributed teams for innovative ventures. Leveraging their diverse pool of over 50,000 top-tier tech talents and the power of Webstarted HR, startups can now assemble high-performing teams efficiently, tapping into the richness of Latin American innovation.Webstarted's commitment extends beyond immediate staffing needs. The company offers complimentary HR services, product management consulting, and staff augmentation and training through Webstarted Academy. This comprehensive approach reflects Webstarted's dedication to fostering the long-term growth and success of startups in Latin America within the competitive global landscape.Webstarted actively engages in mentoring programs like Founder Institute and Acelera Latam, offering expertise to fledgling startups in understanding founder challenges. This commitment underscores Webstarted's dedication to nurturing the next generation of Latin American entrepreneurs.Recognizing the significance of collaboration in the startup ecosystem, Webstarted forms strategic partnerships, exemplified by collaborations like Deel. Such alliances provide startups in Latin America access to invaluable resources, knowledge, and networks that significantly accelerate their growth and innovation.Webstarted actively participates in pivotal networking events in Latin America, such as Endeavor in Buenos Aires, contributing to the growth of startups in the region. These events offer opportunities to connect with the wider ecosystem, stay informed about emerging technology trends, and engage in powerful conversations that catalyze collaborations and rapid growth.While startups in Latin America grapple with challenges like funding constraints, fierce competition, and market volatility, Webstarted remains a steadfast partner committed to steering businesses in the region toward success.Webstarted's impact in Latin America is substantial, playing a crucial role in advancing and boosting the growth of businesses across various stages. Noteworthy companies like Hodinkee, Friendbuy, and Vindow have directly benefited from Webstarted's valuable support, securing backing from reputable investors and positioning Latin America as a hub of innovation on the global stage.About WebstartedWebstarted's comprehensive ecosystem is a powerhouse of innovation and support for companies in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Webstarted itself is the linchpin, revolutionizing remote team building with a vast database of over 50,000 tech professionals, predominantly located in Latin America, with a track record of over 3,500 candidates examined and more than 350 job offers accepted. Complementing this, WebstartedHR offers an End-to-End recruiting solution, providing unparalleled flexibility and scalability for candidates, companies, recruiters, and staffing agencies. Webstarted Academy takes the lead in nurturing talent, offering training for junior tech professionals and recruiters, enabling companies to scale their junior talent to semi-senior levels. Furthermore, Webstarted Gift is dedicated to boosting employee retention. Lastly, the newest addition to the Webstarted ecosystem is Webstarted Ventures, a venture capital company that adds another layer of dynamism and potential to their multifaceted approach. Together, these components create a holistic and dynamic ecosystem that empowers companies to thrive in the competitive tech industry.To learn more about Webstarted, visit www.webstarted.com www.webstartedacademy.com , or visit their latest initiative, www.webstartedventures.com . Contact InformationName: Javier CarusoCompany: WebstartedAddress: Coral Springs, FloridaEmail: info@ webstarted.com Website: www.webstarted.com SOURCE: Webstarted
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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Every food and beverage manufacturer has waste; it's inevitable. How a company chooses to handle this waste varies and is telling of the company's commitment to sustainability. When not handled sustainably, food waste emits greenhouse gas emissions into the environment. If food waste were a country, it would actually be the globe's third largest greenhouse gas emitter following the U.S. and China. Many food and beverage companies are finding more sustainable waste management solutions to help decarbonize their businesses and minimize their impact.One company taking a stand and working to mitigate these emissions is New England Natural Bakers, a leader in the production of natural, organic granola products including their latest introduction, TRUNOLA. Located in Greenfield, Massachusetts, the employee-owned company markets its products to consumers in conventional pouches and has an extensive assortment of bulk offerings. They've been an active contributor to environmental and social improvement initiatives since 1977. Chuck Marble, the President and CEO of New England Natural Bakers discusses the choice his company is making to address these issues. New England Natural Bakers partnered with Vanguard Renewables and now sends excess food waste from its operations to one of Vanguard's Farm Powered anaerobic digesters. The waste is then recycled and converted into fertilizer and animal bedding for the farm and renewable energy for surrounding communities. Chuck Marble discusses how this solution is "a great way to support renewable energy and also decrease carbon footprint in a food processing environment," and he encourages other food and beverage companies to consider more sustainable waste solutions like Farm Powered anaerobic digestion. The partnership between Vanguard Renewables and New England Natural Bakers is setting an example for food companies everywhere on how to deal with food waste. By supporting local farms, reducing food waste emissions and creating renewable energy, New England Natural Bakers and Vanguard Renewables are making a positive impact on the future of our planet!View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Vanguard Renewables on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: Vanguard RenewablesWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/vanguard-renewables Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Vanguard Renewables
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PORT VILA, VANUATU / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / The Government of Vanuatu signed a significant landmark agreement with Advanced Engineering Group (AEG), a Singapore based Consortium, to jointly invest, develop and operate USD150 million International Fishery Port on the Island of Santo.The signing took place in Vanuatu on the 23rd of November 2023, six months after the MOU was signed on 31st of May 2023 this year.Advanced Engineering Group (AEG) Consortium, who will own 51 percent share of this joint project stated that:Their vision for this USD150m project is to establish a comprehensive and sustainable fishery port, capable of accommodating large-scale fishing vessels and supporting a wide range of activities related to fish processing, storage, and export.The completed port will boast modern berthing and mooring facilities for both local and international fishing vessels, as well as dedicated areas for unloading catches, fueling, maintenance, and slipways. The port will also be equipped with cutting-edge fish processing plants, complete with advanced technology for cleaning, filleting, freezing, and packaging fish. Adequate storage facilities, such as cold storage and warehousing, will be available to maintain the quality and freshness of seafood before export. In essence, the port will be designed to cater to a variety of vessel sizes, including large commercial fishing trawlers, ensuring the ability to handle and facilitate the growth of fishing operations.In addition to these facilities, the fishery port will offer a range of ancillary services to support the industry. This includes quality control and inspection facilities, laboratories for seafood testing, a fish market for local sales, and administrative offices to facilitate customs, documentation, and regulatory processes. The port will also provide essential services such as ship chandlers, net repairs, repair workshops, ice factories, and more.Importantly, this joint venture will adopt a sustainable strategy to build long term value by focusing on Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) during implementation so as to ensure environmental sustainability and minimize the port's ecological impact. This includes the use of eco-friendly infrastructure, waste management systems, and adherence to international environmental regulations. AEG will prioritize responsible fishing practices and collaborate with local communities to ensure the preservation of marine eco systems.The development and operation of the international fishery port will bring significant economic and social benefits to the People of Vanuatu. This project will create employment opportunities, both directly within the port and indirectly through the growth of associated industries. It will also attract foreign investment, boost export revenues, and contribute to the economic diversification of the country. Moreover, the fishery port will solidify Vanuatu's position as a regional hub for the fishing industry, attracting international vessels and fostering collaborations.Crucial to the planning considerations of the international fishery port in Santo, Vanuatu aims to establish a modern and sustainable infrastructure to support the economic corridor and the fishing industry in the foreseeable future. This project will not only enhance Vanuatu's economic growth and create employment opportunities but also promote responsible fishing practices and position the country as a key player in the global fishery trade.AEG Consortium is very excited to embark on this meaningful journey together with the Vanuatu Government.The Vanuatu Deputy Prime Minister, Honorable Matai Seremaiah urged the Vanuatu Government Officials that he want to see this project established and operational, and to work coherently with AEG Consortium to ensure that this project is successful.The Vanuatu Deputy Prime Minister also mentioned during the Signing that this development is in line with government's policy on the economic corridor in Santo, which provides a conductive policy commitment in support of the parties' efforts.He further expressed his appreciation to AEG Consortium for her efforts to make this MOA signing a reality and her interest in investing in Vanuatu.Contact:Nareshnaresh@ aeginternational.bizhttps://aeginternational.biz/https://finance.yahoo.com/news/vanuatu-government-signs-strategic-partnership-103000969.html SOURCE: Advanced Engineering Group
PR-Inside.com: 2023-12-06 16:00:31

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RALEIGH, NC / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / For nearly two decades, Newswire, an industry leader in press release distribution services, including content production, strategy, planning, and media technology, has been at the forefront of helping companies around the globe distribute the right message to the right audience at the right time.As part of its award-winning press release distribution services, Newswire offers a Media Database that connects its customers with thousands of journalists.With an easy-to-use interface and up-to-date contact information that's vetted by artificial intelligence and human review (contacts are added and deleted), users can easily find industry journalists and outlets to pitch their news with confidence."One of the most important aspects of a sound press release distribution strategy is the media outreach component," said Jennifer Hammers, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Issuer Direct. "We've built our Media Database to provide our users with the information they need to empower their media outreach efforts and earn the media attention they need to stand out with their target audience." In addition to accurate media contacts and an intuitive interface, Newswire also touts its excellent customer service. When companies use Newswire's Media Database, they'll work with a dedicated manager and enjoy scheduled product training, 24/7 support, and more.Newswire's Media Database seamlessly integrates with its press release distribution platform which makes it easier for users to distribute press releases, build media lists using its Media Database, and send customized pitches to their list of contacts - all in one platform.For more information on Newswire's Media Database, visit newswire.com About NewswireNewswire is a media technology company that provides its clients with the Press Release Optimizer, which consists of press release distribution, media databases, media monitoring, and online media rooms that power the Media Advantage: greater brand awareness through earned media, increased online visibility through content strategy and planning as well as greater SEO recognition.Through its disruptive Press Release Optimizer, relentless commitment to customer satisfaction, and passion for customer performance, Newswire is automating media and marketing communications for large and small businesses seeking to deliver the right message to the right audience at the right time for the right purpose.To learn more about Newswire and its Press Release Optimizer, visit Newswire.com and discover why our customers have named us #1 for Customer Satisfaction and Ease of Use for four years in a row. For more information, visit https://www.newswire.com Newswire is a wholly owned subsidiary of Issuer Direct, a leading communications and compliance company, providing solutions for both Public Relations and Investor Relations Professionals. For more information, please visit www.issuerdirect.com Contact InformationJennifer Hammers Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing jennifer.hammers@issuerdirect.com 919.481.4000SOURCE: Newswire
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Field to Market Honors 2023 Sustainability Leadership Award WinnersNORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Field to Market: The Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture honored the recipients of the 2023 Sustainability Leadership Awards on the eve of the 9th Annual Sustainable Agriculture Summit. Now in their seventh year, the awards - presented as the capstone of the Alliance's fall meeting - are given to farmers, individuals, and organizations who have demonstrated outstanding leadership through their efforts to advance continuous improvement in the sustainability of U.S. commodity crop production.The recipients of the 2023 Sustainability Leadership Awards are as follows:2023 Farmer of the Year: Jim Winn, South Wayne, Wisconsin Recognized for outstanding conservation efforts on his farm and leadership in advancing sustainable agriculture, Winn was honored as Field to Market's 2023 Farmer of the Year. Co-owning and operating Cottonwood Dairy in South Wayne, Wisconsin, with his partners Brian and Randy Larson, Winn farms approximately 2,500 acres of corn and alfalfa, and raises approximately 2,900 dairy cattle, all with a whole-farm approach to sustainability. Having utilized a suite of conservation practices including no-till, contour strips, cover crops, and a comprehensive nutrient management plan for years, Winn and his partners work diligently to ensure the farm remains productive now and into the future.2023 Trusted Adviser of the Year: Mark Lefebvre, Conservation Planning Team Manager, Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District Recognized for his outstanding leadership in supporting farmers' journeys of continuous improvement, Mark Lefebvre was honored as Field to Market's 2023 Trusted Adviser of the Year. Providing support to Minnesota farmers, Lefebvre champions sustainable solutions to improve environmental outcomes on-farm and enhance long-term productivity, while helping them try sustainable practices and track their progress. As the Conservation Planning Team Manager for the Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), Lefebvre provides technical and financial assistance to landowners across the county. For over 17 years, he has been assisting farmers with identifying risks on their farming operations and finding solutions that will fit in with each individual's farm goals and operating constraints.2023 Collaboration of the Year: U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol: Collaborating for a Smarter Cotton Future Project Recognizing outstanding collaboration and cross-sector partnership in advancing continuous improvement of cotton sustainability at the field and landscape level, the 2023 Collaboration of the Year Award honors the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol (Trust Protocol) and Cotton Incorporated for their work on the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol: Collaborating for a Smarter Cotton Future project. Enrolled in Field to Market's Project Directory, this project represents the enrolled acres of producers involved in the Trust Protocol and the collaborators' work to assist producers in improving their environmental outcomes and marketing sustainable cotton across the industry.By combining innovative sustainable and regenerative practices with locally rooted strategies to scaling conservation, each of this year's award recipients demonstrate the role all sectors have in shaping a more resilient and sustainable food system."Congratulations to each of our three awardees - their leadership in driving the continuous improvement of environmental outcomes for agriculture is a clear example of how the collective action of the value chain supports resilient ecosystems and enhances farmer livelihoods," says Field to Market President Scott Herndon. "We applaud Jim Winn, Mark Lefebvre, and the partners involved in the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol: Collaborating for a Smarter Cotton Future Project, for their dedication to advancing the sustainability of U.S. agriculture." The winners of Field to Market's Sustainability Leadership Awards are selected by the Alliance's Education and Outreach Committee. Each recipient demonstrates leadership in the pursuit of continuous improvement, resulting in measurable results and significant impact on both agriculture and the environment. This year's program was made possible thanks to the support of Nestle Purina Petcare and Cotton Incorporated.Learn more about the 2023 Sustainability Leadership Award winners at www.fieldtomarket.org/awards CONTACTKatrina Stacey, Field to Market Communications Manager, (202) 230-3861, kstacey@ fieldtomarket.org ABOUT FIELD TO MARKETField to Market: The Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture brings together a diverse group of grower organizations; agribusinesses; food, feed, beverage, restaurant, and retail companies; conservation groups; universities and public sector partners to focus on defining, measuring, and advancing the sustainability of food, feed, fiber, and fuel production. Field to Market comprises of 200 members representing all facets of the U.S. agricultural supply chain, with members employing more than 5 million people and representing combined revenues totaling over $1.5 trillion.View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Field to Market: The Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: Field to Market: The Alliance for Sustainable AgricultureWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/field-market-alliance-sustainable-agriculture Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Field to Market: The Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture
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WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / The National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL) has passed a resolution calling for tighter regulation of consumer products containing hemp-derived cannabinoids. The resolution urges the U.S. Congress to provide the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with the authority and resources to regulate consumer products such as CBD oils, and recognizes the need for a new federal regulatory framework and enforcement mechanisms to mitigate product risks and protect consumers from harm.Consumer products containing hemp-derived cannabinoids are widely available in the interstate marketplace. Examples include balms containing CBD, gummies and lollipops containing delta-8 THC, and vaping products containing delta-10 THC. Many cannabinoid consumer products are promoted with unsubstantiated health claims; others are marketed for their mood-altering effects."The lack of federal regulatory clarity surrounding consumer products containing delta-8 THC and other potentially intoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoids frustrates state legislators' efforts to protect their consumers and public health," said Florida Senator Colleen Burton, a member of NFWL who supported the resolution.Aimed Alliance, a not-for-profit health policy organization, proposed the NFWL resolution, and the NFWL Policy Committee reviewed it and forwarded it to the full membership. Hawaii Senator Lynn DeCoite presented the resolution to the NFWL membership for discussion and a vote during the group's 85th Annual Conference November 16 - 18 in Orlando, Florida."Consumer products containing hemp-derived cannabinoids are not subject to federal regulations that help ensure product safety, limit cannabinoid exposure, require safety warnings, and prohibit marketing to children," said Olivia Backhaus, Counsel to Aimed Alliance. "We encourage Congress to authorize and equip the FDA to establish and enforce new rules." Through the resolution, the NFWL:Recognizes the need for a new federal regulatory framework and enforcement mechanisms for consumer products containing hemp-derived cannabinoids;Acknowledges that adjustments to federal regulations will be essential as additional scientific evidence emerges; andCalls upon Congress to provide the FDA the authorities and resources to regulate consumer products containing hemp-derived cannabinoids to protect consumers and public health."NFWL conferences provide elected women a civil, bipartisan forum to discuss policy, and our resolutions enable our membership to express consensus on timely, substantive issues," said Brenna Kehew Sculley, NFWL's Director of Policy & Programming.View the NFWL resolution here.View Aimed Alliance's presentation, titled "Cannabinoid Clarity: The Need for Federal Legislation to Protect Consumers, States, and Industry," here.###About the National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL)Since 1938, NFWL has served as a forum for elected women from across the country to be empowered through information and experience. NFWL is the oldest organization for elected women in America and the ONLY one that includes women on the city, county and state levels.About Aimed AllianceAimed Alliance is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit health policy organization that protects and enhances the rights of health care consumers and providers. For more information, visit aimedalliance.org Media ContactJonathan GhentWritLarge PR LLCjonathanghent@ WritLargePR.com SOURCE: Aimed Alliance
US consumer goods powerhouse Procter & Gamble (P&G) will discontinue manufacturing in Nigeria and pivot to import-only activity, the company said Tuesday.

The multinational expects $2.5 billion in charges over the next two years from rejigging operations in some of its markets and writing down the value of its Gillette business.

The maker of iconic brands including Pampers, Gillette, Ariel, Always and Oral-B could incur charges anywhere between $1 billion and $1.5 billion after-tax from restructuring its operations in Nigeria and Argentina, two markets where the business has been problematic for the corporation.

So when you think about places like Nigeria, when you think about places like Argentina, its very difficult for us as a U.S. dollar-denominated company to create value, Andre Schulten, the chief financial officer, said at Morgan Stanley Global Consumer & Retail Conference in New York.

Its also difficult to operate because of the macroeconomic environment, he added.

The move adds to the woes of multinational operations in Nigeria, where foreign companies especially manufacturers and energy firms have been exiting in droves, most citing the current foreign exchange crunch and devaluation of the naira, which means lower earnings for foreign companies in dollar terms.

In March, Unilever announced an end to the production of its homecare and skin-cleansing products in the country because those categories are margin dilutive and the decision needed to be taken to make its Nigerian operation profitable.

This August, British pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline said it was terminating its manufacturing operations in Nigeria also, opting instead for a third-party distribution model.

P&G has been operating in Africas largest economy for 30 years and ran two manufacturing plants in Ibadan, Oyo State and Agbara, Ogun State. It has been scaling back operations through job cuts and partial running of its factories in recent years.

Only the P&G plant in Ibadan is currently being run by the company, and it only produces Ariel detergent. All the other P&IG products in Nigeria are either being imported or produced by another company licensed by P&IG, a company source told PREMIUM TIMES in 2021.

Nigeria contributes $50 million in net sales to P&Gs global business according to its CFO.

We think that were at the point in both markets, Argentina and Nigeria, where a change in the approach will yield a better result overall, Mr Schulten said.

So its not because its opportune. Its because we truly believe this is the better way to go to market in those geographies.

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Ogu/Bolo kingdom, a community in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, is trending on social media, over the pictures of the renowned Ira festival, a rite of passage marking the transition of young virgins into womanhood, held on 2 December 2023.

This age-old tradition, dating back to the 17th century, serves as a cultural cornerstone for the Okrika-Ijaw community, offering a unique glimpse into the maturation process of young girls.

The Council of Chiefs in Ogu oversees the event, ensuring that the participants, who are usually virgins, pass through a series of tests and rituals that culminate in their recognition as adult women ready for marriage.

The Ogu Council of Chiefs presents certificates to the qualified girls, officially recognising their transition into adulthood.

To earn the certification, the first hurdle for the young girls is to demonstrate their virginity; a criterion meticulously examined by the women of the town.

Once proven, the candidates are ushered into a fattening room where they undergo training on the nuances of womanhood.

This process includes pampering and preparation for the main event  dancing half-naked at the market square.

The culmination of the Iria ceremony unfolds at the market square, where chiefs, heads of families, and a captivated audience gather to witness the young virgins make their symbolic debut into womanhood.

The maidens, adorned in traditional attire that only covers their lower body, boldly display their bare breasts, signifying their readiness for the responsibilities and challenges that come with maturity.

For those who find themselves uncomfortable with the striking sight of young maidens embracing their cultural identity with grace, it is advisable to steer clear of the Iria ceremony of womanhood.

This annual tradition generates enthusiasm among both locals and intrigued onlookers, as it unfolds over the last three to four months of every year.

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The death toll from Sundays military drone airstrike on civilians in Tudun Biri, a community in Igabi Local Government area of Kaduna State has risen.

The victims of the strike are mostly children and women celebrating the Maulud (birthday of Prophet Muhammad), residents told PREMIUM TIMES.

One of the residents, Garba Haruna, earlier told PREMIUM TIMES that over 29 bodies were recovered from the attack which occurred late Sunday and left many other victims missing as of Monday morning.

The North-west zonal spokesperson of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Halima Suleiman, told Channels Television that 85 people were buried on Monday by locals following the attack.

The official said 66 others were injured in the drone attack.

President Bola Tinubu, through one of his media aides, Ajuri Ngelale, has sympathised with the families of victims, the people and the government of Kaduna State over the bombing incident.

The president directed a thorough and full-fledged investigation into the incident and calls for calm while the authorities look diligently into the mishap, Mr Ngelale said.

The Kaduna attack is another instance in a series of similar airstrikes on civilians by the Nigerian military in recent years.

Timeline

The Kaduna attack was the second military airstrike on civilian populace in the north of the country this year.

Like the attack in Nasarawa State in January, it was believed to be carried out by a drone. The police confirmed that at least 27 herders, mainly ethnic Fulani, were killed in Nasarawa incident.

However, Fulani groups claim 40 people were killed and scores of other civilians were injured.

Most of those killed were herders returning from Benue State, after reclaiming their livestock seized by the Benue State Government.

The police in Nasarawa said preliminary investigation revealed that the pastoralists had gone to Benue to pay fines for the release of their cattle impounded by the Benue Livestock Guards, who were implementing the states anti-open grazing before they were killed by a drone at a border community.

While they were loading some of the cows into vehicles in Kwatiri village, a border community between Benue and Nasarawa, something like a drone or an aircraft hovered in the air and shelled them, the police spokesperson in Nasarawa, Ramhan Nansel, said.

Following the Nasarawa attack, the UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, Alice Nderitu, said the worsening security situation in Nigeria is characterised by the politicisation of the movement of livestock for grazing, and increasing divisions among communities, including stigmatisation along religious and ethnic lines.

Ms Nderitu expressed concern over worsening security in Nigeria while urging the authorities to ensure counter-terrorism operations are conducted in line with international human rights and humanitarian law.

These dynamics of targeting communities along identity lines, if unaddressed, risk further fuelling inter-communal tensions, recruitment by armed groups and retaliatory attacks, with an obvious impact on civilians, she said in January.

Zamfara

Another military airstrike claimed scores of civilian lives in December 2022 while soldiers were repelling attacks by non-state actors on some communities in the Dansadau District of Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Residents said armed bandits had targeted Malele, Yan Sawayu, Yan Awaki Maigoge, and Ruwan Tofa communities before the attacks were foiled by the air raids which forced the rampaging gunmen to flee into the neighbouring Mutunji community for safety.

However, the terrorists were not the only victims of the air raid in Mutunji. Civilians, including women and children, were also killed. The community leader of Mutunji, Umar Mutunji, put the civilian casualties at over 70.

The Zamfara State government confirmed the strike claimed several lives in the Mutumji community, but did not state the number of casualties from the operations.

The governor was saddened to hear the latest development when the Nigeria Air Force was out to eliminate a marauding group of bandits which, unfortunately, caught several civilians leaving behind a mixture of casualties involving both the bandits and several civilians, the governor was quoted in a statement by his media aide, Zailani Bappa, in December last year.

Katsina

In July 2022, at least six people were reported killed by an Air Force jet in the Kunkunna community of Safana Local Government of Katsina State. Like in Zamfara, the victims of the Katsina attack, were hit by bombs targeted at bandits

A lawmaker representing the Safana constituency at the Katsina State House of Assembly, AbdulJalal Runka, confirmed the accident, saying that only one woman was killed by the bomb. He said 14 other people injured in the attack were being treated at a hospital.

What happened is that it was that jet (Air Force fighter jet) that released the bomb there and there were casualties, 14 people were affected and they were quickly taken to the hospital, he said.

Mr Runka said eight persons were admitted at the Umaru Musa Yaradua University Teaching Hospital (formerly Federal Medical Centre Katsina).

Niger

In April 2022, six children were killed when a Nigerian Air Force jet bombed their residence in Kurebe, Shiroro Local Government of the state. Ironically, the parents of two of the six children who were killed in the airstrike were killed by bandits in 2020.

Their families were left with the trauma of losing their loved ones to both state and non-state actors.

Salis Sabo, the spokesperson of the Coalition of Shiroro Association (COSA), said the incident happened on the morning of Wednesday 13 April, as the children were returning from a motorised borehole in the community where they had gone to fetch water.

The two other children who lost their lives in the incidents have for long lost their parents. One of them is a daughter of the late Malam Isah Kurebe and the other is a daughter of the late Malam Adamu Kurebe, who was killed by the terrorists, Mr Sabo told PREMIUM TIMES last year.

Borno

In January 2017, the Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) also known as Doctors Without Borders, said at least 52 people were killed after a Nigerian fighter jet accidentally dropped a bomb on an internally displaced persons, IDP, camp in Rann, headquarters of Kala-Balge local government area, Borno State.

The international humanitarian organisation, whose officials were present at the Rann camp when the incident occurred, said another 120 people were injured from the incident.

Following the attack, Jean-Clement Cabrol, the MSFs Director of Operations, said, This large-scale attack on vulnerable people who have already fled from extreme violence is shocking and unacceptable. The safety of civilians must be respected. We are urgently calling on all parties to ensure bomb victims, the facilitation of medical evacuations by air or road for survivors while in need of emergency care.

Since 2017, military airstrikes on civilians have continued and the outcome of the investigations into them has never been published.

The Defence spokesperson, Bolaji Kazzem, said he was in a meeting and asked our reporter to send a text message, but he has yet to respond.

The spokesperson of the army, Onyema Nwachukwu, did not respond to phone calls and text messages to comment on the incidents.

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The number of delegates representing Nigeria in the ongoing twenty-eighth Conference of Parties (COP28) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) increased by more than four folds when compared to the countrys COP27 delegates in Egypt last year, a PREMIUM TIMES analysis has shown.

Nigerias official delegation (i.e. party badge holders) to COP27 last year was 120 persons, increasing from 87 in COP26 two years ago in Glasgow.

This years delegation of 590 persons under President Bola Tinubu, who removed subsidies on petroleum products and asked Nigerians to endure the attendant hardship resulting from the hike in the cost of living, is eliciting public outrage in the country.

Mr Tinubu, who has repeatedly told Nigerians that the governments purse is lean, has been criticised by Nigerians for controversial expenditure embarked upon by his government including the funding for the large delegation to COP28.

In response to public criticisms, the government said it only funded 422 persons of the 590-person list that includes the presidents son, Seyi Tinubu, and other individuals believed to have no significant roles in the climate conference.

The 422 people funded by the federal government under Mr Tinubu are, however, more than triple the total number of official government delegations to COP27 last year (120) and COP26 in 2021 (87).

A review of the figures also shows that the number of government-funded delegates increased by over 250 per cent between COP27 in 2022 and COP28 even if all 120 official delegates at COP27 were government funded.

The 422 persons funded by the Nigerian government also suggests that the Nigerian government funded more delegates to COP28 than the UK and the US combined (even if both countries used government funds for all their party delegates  234).

The US has 159 delegates with party badges, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland has 75.

COP attendance becoming too big

It is not only Nigerians that are concerned about the bloated attendance at COP28 with a UN official saying the attendance is getting too big. Almost 100,000 participants from 195 countries. are attending COP28 compared to about 49,704 participants who attended COP27 last year.

These conferences have become too big, Achim Steiner, head of the UN Development Programme, said in an interview on the sidelines of the conference on Monday.

Mr Steiner said while he does not want to tell anyone not to take part, the over-bloated attendance should not become a model for the future in terms of attendance.

Understandably, the host country, the UAE, has the highest number of delegates (participants). Brazil, which has had one of the largest delegates in the past two years, has over 3,000 delegates in total.

China and Nigeria have a total number of 1,482 and 1,411 delegates, respectively, currently in the UAE.

Total Participants Vs Party Delegates

Meanwhile, less than 30 per cent of this years participants are official negotiators at the conference. There are 195 countries party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) which make up the decision-making body for COP. Together, the parties were represented by 24,488 party delegates.

The remaining 70,000+ persons attending the conference are observers from United Nations organisations, Intergovernmental Organisations, Regional Organisations, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Civil Society Organisations, the business community and the Media.

China, for instance, is in third place when ranked by the total number of participants. But will only take the 34th place when ranked by the number of persons representing it at COP28. Only 219 persons carry its party badge.

These persons representing each country are accredited or given badges under the Party category. Other attendees  including members of the business community, civil society and media  carry the Overflow or Party Overflow badges.

Others such as United Nations organisations, Inter-governmental Organisations, and Regional Organisations, are admitted as Observers.

There are, however, insinuations that some countries allocate some of their party badges to Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), which can artificially inflate the size of their official delegation, according to Carbon Brief, a UK-based publication specialising in the science and policy of climate change.

Also, while the UAE has the highest number of participants, Brazil has the highest number of persons representing a country (or carrying the party badge). Brazil has 1,337 party participants at the conference.

It is followed by India with 725 representatives and the UAE with 620 representatives.

Nigeria and the Russian Federation are tied in fourth position with 590 persons carrying the party badge from both countries. The total number of participants from Nigeria is 1,411 including the 821 Party Overflows.

The Nigerian government said it only funded 422 persons. It did not provide details about the remaining 168 persons carrying its party badge but the governments position suggests that such persons were funded by others such as development partners.

The 422 people funded by the Nigerian government are also more than triple the total number of official delegates from Pakistan (80), a country with a similar population as Nigeria.

The Republic of Moldova, Eritrea, Liechtenstein, Nicaragua and the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea each have less than 10 delegates with party badges.

Delegates for COP 27, 26

The total number of party participants increased from 9,749 in COP26 held in Glasgow in 2021, to 11,969 during last years COP27 in Egypt, and more than doubled to 24,488 in the ongoing COP28 in the UAE.

For the past two years, Brazil has held one of the highest number of party badge holders in the conference. The country had 406 party badge holders in COP26 and 470 in COP27.

During COP 26, India had 135 party badge holders and 61 last year during COP27 in Egypt.

China, meanwhile, had 56 and 63 party badge-carrying participants in COP26 and 27 respectively.

At the ongoing COP, Nigerias delegates have hinted that the countrys priority is to secure more finances from investors to achieve its Energy Transition Plan (ETP) and other relevant climate actions in the country.

Nigeria expects to spend $1.9 trillion between 2022 and 2060 to meet the targets of the ETP across five sectors. At several meetings at the summit, PREMIUM TIMES observed that core Nigerian Party delegates are pushing to attract investment into the country.

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ELKO  Great Basin College will host its 2023 Winter Festival on Wednesday featuring Christmas lights, music, and a selection of local vendors.

The spectacle is from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Leonard Center for Student Life.

Melissa Leon, the college's admissions and records administrative assistant, said the lineup of holiday festivities would include the Elko High School Choraliers at 6 p.m., as well as a visit from Santa Claus.

We are going to have a selfie with Santa station," she said. "So, it will be all set up and decorated and people can line up and use their own cameras to take selfies with Santa for free.

Leon said Greater Nevada Credit Union will provide free hot chocolate. Also, the colleges Lunchbox restaurant will be open for dinner.

In addition, the Nuts Under A Buck donut truck and the Iron Pig barbecue truck will be parked outside. The Lions Club will sell Sees Candy.

Visitors can expect a community craft fair experience, with several fundraisers in the mix.

Leon provided some examples of the fundraising activities: We have a 50/50 raffle with our Radiology Technology department from GDC. We have the Carlin Volunteer Fire Department raffling off baskets and the benefits go back to the Carlin fire department to help with building their new firehouse.

Phi Theta Kappa will attend the festival as well, raising money for goals such as upcoming trips and providing GBC students with technology. Members donations of single-serving food items for food-insecure children.

Also, the GBC ceramics studio will host a ceramics booth, and the California Trail Center will share historical information.

The GBC Winter Festival is set to be an enjoyable evening for all ages, she said. Stop by the Leonard Center and see what kind of wintry fun is in store.
Bauchi State Police Command said it has arrested those allegedly behind the murder of a student of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi (ATBU), Joseph Agabaidu.

Mr Agabaidu was stabbed and killed on Monday as he tried to stop hoodlums from snatching the bag of a female student, Philomena Ahobee.

Ms Ahobee is a student at the Abubakar Tattari Ali Polytechnic (ATAP).

In a statement on Wednesday, the spokesperson of the police command, Ahmed Wakili, said the suspects were arrested following the directive of the Commissioner of Police of the state, Auwal Musa.

Following the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Auwal Musa, to mop up criminal elements hibernating around Yelwa Axis, the command has arrested five suspected miscreants including an 18-year-old girl.

The girl was arrested for criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, receiving stolen property, and causing grievous hurt.

The suspects terrorising the Yelwa axis ran out of luck when the Commissioner of Police gave a marching order to the Divisional Police Officer to crack down on all criminals disguising themselves as students around the area, Mr Wakili said.

He said the suspects were Umar Saidu, 20 years old; Florence Jeremiah 18 years old; Sani Abdullahi aka Bamba, 27 years; Bello Adamu aka Omata 19 years old; Adamu Musa aka Mai-anguwa 25 years old, all from Yelwan Kagadama area of the state.

Mr Wakili said Mr Abdullahi who is also known as Bamba, together with Ms Jeremiah, stole a motorcycle from a commercial motorcyclist after hitting him on the head with a stick.

During interrogation, the 18-year-old girl confessed to having taken Okada from the Awala roundabout to Yelwa area with the intention of snatching his motorcycle as planned with her boyfriend.

The prime suspect, Sani Abdullahi, who works as a carpenter, confessed to having masterminded the plan and connived with his girlfriend, Florence to execute it, he narrated.

Mr Wakili stated that the investigation revealed that the said Sani Abdullahi had previously conspired with Umar Saidu, Adamu Musa, Bello Adamu, and three other suspects who are now at large and robbed about three persons.

Murtala Yusuf 47 years of Baffajo Road Yelwa was robbed of his Haojue motorcycle valued at N 380,000, but sold it N80,000 to one Adamu Sabiu who was equally arrested.

Hamidu Abdu, 34, of the same address stole Infinix Note 5 phone valued at N30,000, a Haojue Lucky motorcycle valued at N180,000.

The house of one Ibrahim James 35, of the same address, was raided and his Gionee M12 phone valued at N96,000 and an ITEL phone valued at N69,2000 were stolen, the spokesperson said.

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The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, has called for the deliberate mentoring and training of young political leaders who will take over governance and public service in the future.

Mr Gbajabiamila made the call on Monday in Abuja during the opening ceremony of the second cohort of participants of a programme tagged Legislative Mentorship Initiative (LMI) under the aegis of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies(NILDS).

The LMI was conceived by Mr Gbajabiamila when he was the speaker of the 9th House of Representatives.

For the sustainability of the programme, Mr Gbajabiamila has entrusted the initiative to the care of the NILDS, a premier institution dedicated to legislative research and capacity building.

The second cohort is the first set of participants to be directly trained by NILDS.

According to the Mr Gbajabiamila, the purpose of the initiative is to identify and train a generation of public sector leaders who understand that the point of holding power is to get things done and accomplish things and who have the expertise and temperament to use the machinery of government and the instruments of power to achieve peace, drive progress and ensure prosperity for all. This mandate is critically important to the future stability of Nigeria.

He said that just as the country needs trained lawyers, engineers, doctors, nurses and various such professionals, We also need people who understand politics, who are well versed in the mechanics of government, who appreciate the enormous responsibility of public service and who are called to the service of their communities and the nation.

The LMI is designed to empower young people with the skills, capacity, and competence to participate effectively in Nigerias politics and governance and contribute to her growth, progress, and prosperity, said Mr Gbajabiamila, who argued that public service is a calling; it is not for everybody. And even those who feel a genuine stirring in their spirits to serve may not always be prepared to do so.

We must provide avenues such as this to ensure that people who desire to be genuine public servants can develop the ability to serve creditably and meet the best expectations they have of themselves, he said.

Mr Gbajabiamila, however, said that programmes like the LMI cannot by themselves meet the yawning need for a new generation of capable leaders in the public sector, saying that other institutions must step up.

Our political parties, for example, have a role to play in this regard. Beyond serving as vehicles for acquiring political power, political parties can deploy resources to become incubators of policy and political talent through developing think tanks and research institutes and implementing specialised training programmes and projects. This will significantly deepen our democracy and even serve to strengthen the political parties themselves and ensure their place in our democratic practice.

Having successfully trained young people with the requisite skills, the former lawmaker said they must also be given opportunities to showcase their knowledge and competencies in public service through appointments and elective offices.

Speaking earlier, the Director General of NILDS, Abubakar Sulaiman, commended Mr Gbajabiamila for envisioning the programme and also entrusting it to the institute.

Mr Sulaiman, a professor, called on the leadership of the National Assembly to ensure dedicated funding for the programme for its continuity and sustainability.

The DG of the institute described the continuous funding of the initiative as an investment in the future of our democracy will be amply rewarded by the contributions of the LMIs graduates, who will bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and unwavering commitment to the legislative process.

As part of his commitment to the initiative, Mr Sulaiman announced that the best participant(s) will be awarded an employment offer with NILDS. He urged the participants to put in their best and consider this a rare opportunity to take advantage of.

A total number of 45 participants was inducted for the second cohort.

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The Convener, Hope Alive Initiative for Africa, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, on Tuesday, visited the Medium Security Custodial Centres, Kuje, in commemoration of his 8th Anniversary on the throne of his fathers.

This is contained in a statement by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Centre, Assistant Superintendent of Corrections (ASC), Samuel Duza, on Wednesday in Abuja.

The monarch said that his visit was necessitated by his empathy for humanity and his belief in giving a second chance to people to correct their mistakes.

He expressed joy over the warm reception accorded him and his wife on this special occasion, and urged inmates not to see their incarceration as the end of life, rather they should see it as an opportunity to turn a new leaf.

According to him, I am here for the real people who need hope, your condition today will be history tomorrow, so dont give up.

The Ooni, who secured the release of five inmates through payment of their fines, admonished other inmates to be of good behaviour, comport themselves in line with the rules of the custodial centre and forgive themselves.

He promised to support the inmates rehabilitation programmes by giving materials to aid their skills acquisition programme.

In her speech, the deputy convener of Hope Alive Initiative for Africa, Temitope Ogunwusi, said that the visit was not only to celebrate the remarkable reign of his majesty but to reflect on societal issues.

According to her, we are reminded of the power of forgiveness, redemption and second chance.

She applauded the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the correctional service authorities for doing a great job in the reformation and reintegration of the inmates.

The Controller General, NCoS, Haliru Nababa, appreciated the Ooni and his wife for choosing Kuje Custodial Centre to show their benevolence.

Mr Nababa assured them of the services commitment to the full implementation of its mandate of reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates.

The CGC, represented by the Controller of Corrections in charge of Planning, Research and Statistics, Ajibogun Olatubosun, admonished the discharged inmates to be good ambassadors of the centre in their future endeavours.

The highlight of the event was the exhibition of items produced by inmates of the facility.

(NAN)

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At the 30 November White House Bilateral Meeting, President Joseph Biden of the US and President Joao Lourenco of Angola capped off a momentous year in bilateral relations that witnessed an extraordinary transformation, especially in the realm of security cooperation.

Celebrating three decades of diplomatic ties, the leaders had multifaceted discussions. The meeting took notice of Angolas influential role and acknowledged Angolas pivotal standing and influential role in the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Of paramount significance was the White Houses pride in the meeting serving as a peak of a year focused on defence matters. A senior Biden administration official highlighted the significance of the meeting, characterizing it as a reflection on committed investments by the leaders. The consultation on regional issues, particularly the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), was a focal point. The official underscored the Biden administrations dedication to aligning efforts with the Angolans, emphasizing ongoing initiatives, including DNI Avril Hainess recent diplomatic efforts.

The Report: Focus on the Democratic Republic of the Congo, published by the Global Terrorism Trends and Analysis Centre (GTTAC), shed light on the stark realities of the security landscape. In 2022 alone, the DRC witnessed 984 attacks, resulting in 3,458 fatalities, constituting 13 per cent of the global total. The data, sourced from the GTTAC Record of Incident Database, dated 22 March underscored the DRCs unfortunate distinction of experiencing the highest number of incidents and fatalities worldwide.

A US Institute of Peace expert, offering insights into the complex security challenges in eastern DRC said, Long-term, comprehensive peace needs to come from political dialogue, with better coordination between different regional institutions and other partners supporting dialogue. The role of religious actors and Congolese civil society is also critical to advance peace.

To ease DRC-Rwanda tensions, the USIP expert said The conversation that needs to happen is on a political level for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. A military solution alone will not be enough, as we have seen in prior cycles of conflict in the East.

Clarifying the essence of the US-Angola defence relationship, a senior administration official highlighted the deepening security ties with Angola. President Lourencos prior role as the countrys defence minister and his strong ties with the US military and the Pentagon were noted by the official. The US Secretary of Defenses unprecedented trip to Angola in September paved the way for potent conversations, especially regarding Angolan interests in military modernization. Our security relationship with Angola continues to deepen. You may know that President Lourenco was a former defence minister and had visited the United States in that capacity and has built strong ties with the U.S. military and the Pentagon, a senior administration official said on Thursday.

And that really came together quite powerfully with Secretary Austins trip in Septemberagain, the first-ever Secretary of Defense trip to Angola. And in those conversations, they talked about opportunities where we can deepen our cooperation, in particular, answering some of the Angolans interest in military modernization, a senior administration official said.

The Embassy of Angola in Washington, D.C. said in a statement, In the area of security, a memorandum of understanding was recently signed on how we can strengthen this relationship, both in the maritime security sector and in the equipment sector.

Both leaders charted a course for intensified collaboration, with a high-level defence dialogue slated for 2024. Military-to-military exchanges will be a key focus, spanning education, English language capacity, maritime security, and peacekeeping. The anticipation is palpable, with the two leaders expressing enthusiasm about the myriad ways in which the U.S. and Angola can collaborate on security issues.

Recalling events from the US-Africa Leaders Summit 2022 and a phone call on 20 January in which Secretary of State Antony Blinken lauded President Lourencos contributions to peace in eastern DRC. About 20 months ago, a meeting at the Pentagon laid the groundwork for US-Angola defence cooperation, anchored by a Memorandum of Understanding dating back to 2017.

The US State Departments assistance, including the International Military Education and Training (IMET) programme, plays a pivotal role in enhancing Angolan capabilities. The tangible support extends to financing professional military education, deploying military training teams, bolstering medical readiness, fortifying maritime security, and fostering English language proficiency.

As the White House welcomed President Lourenco, the Angolan delegation included key figures such as Minister of External Relations Tete Antonio; Chief of Cabinet of the President, Edeltrudes Costa; Secretary for Diplomatic and International Cooperation of the President, Victor Lima; Director General of External Intelligence Services, Bertino Matondo and Ambassador of the Republic of Angola to the United States, Agostinho Van-Dunem.

In this paradigm-shifting meeting, the U.S.-Angola partnership not only celebrates the achievements of the past year but sets a powerful trajectory for a future defined by robust defence collaboration, geopolitical influence, and shared commitment to regional stability.

The Angolan Embassy said, This formalization put an end to a phase of political tensions and indirect confrontation, which began shortly after Angola became independent, in 1975, as a result of the Cold War that opposed the former USSR and the USA.

Pearl Matibe is a Washington, DC-based White House Correspondent, and media commentator with expertise in US foreign policy and international security. You may follow her on Twitter: @PearlMatibe

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The Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, has called for a thorough investigation into the military drone airstrike on residents of Tundun Biri village in Kaduna State.

Mr Jibrin made the call in a statement on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir.

A military drone mistakenly attacked civilians on Sunday at Tundun Biri, a community in Igabi Local Government area of Kaduna State.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said about 85 people were buried on Monday and 65 persons were injured in the attack.

The Nigerian Army has claimed responsibility for the attack. On Tuesday, the Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja, paid a condolence visit to the community.

Also on Tuesday, President Bola Tinubu, ordered an investigation into the drone attack.

Mr Jibrin, while reacting to the incident, urged authorities of security agencies in the country to investigate the airstrike thoroughly.

He appealed to the relatives of the victims and residents of the Tundun Biri not to resort to violence but to remain calm.

The deputy senate president expressed sympathy with the families of the victims and the Kaduna State government.

In this trying time, I stand in solidarity with the affected families and the entire community. I assure them of my commitment to supporting efforts that will prevent the recurrence of such incidents. I pray for a smooth recovery of the injured who are currently undergoing medical treatment.

Senate army committee sympathises

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Abdulaziz Yaradua, also sympathised with

families of the victims of the military airstrike.

Mr Yaradua said the incident is a piece of evidence that the federal government needs to revamp and reposition the Nigerian Army.

We are deeply saddened by the recent drone strikes carried out by the Nigerian Army, which tragically resulted in the loss of innocent lives.

Our deepest commiserations extend firstly to the good people of Tudun Biri village, Igabi Local Government, the people and government of Kaduna State, and Nigerians generally,

The recent tragic drone strikes on Tudun Biri Village, Kaduna State, further highlights the urgency and importance of our ongoing work to revamp and reposition the Nigerian Army, Mr Yaradua said.

The army committee chairman commended the Nigerian Army for taking responsibility for the attack.

We commend the Nigerian Army for taking responsibility and thank the Minister of State for Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, and Chief of Army Staff for the timely visit to the community and commitments made to ensure that a thorough investigation is carried out. Also, we thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sending a delegation and commiserating with the victims of the unfortunate incident.

The Senate, on Friday, suspended plenary sessions till 19 December to work on the 2024 Budget.

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President Bola Tinubu says cooperation is imperative for economic prosperity in West Africa, noting that a lack of synergy between Nigeria and the Benin Republic has been an encumbrance of mutual development.

Speaking when he received President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic at the State House in Abuja, on Wednesday, President Tinubu said Nigeria and Benin Republic share a lot in common, describing both countries as conjoined twins held together at the hip.

We are one. No other nation like ours should be worried. What is affecting us is a lack of synergy. We have not developed the necessary economic synergy that will develop our two nations. We must have common economic principles and priorities. The economic programme you are developing through inter-ministerial collaboration is welcomed by me.

We will support all of our private sector interests to facilitate prosperity in both of our important countries. I appreciate the urgency of your approach, and we welcome this. Leadership is sometimes defined by urgent action. Thank you for your quality leadership. We are together. I am not a backwards-looking person. I look forward. This is how I avoid missing steps, the President said.

President Talon, who was at the State House to seek the support of President Tinubu on improving trade relations, ahead of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Summit, described the relationship between his country and Nigeria as crucial.

He said the Benin Republic is seeking stronger trade ties with Nigeria, emphasising the free movement of people and goods between both countries.

Benin has started implementing a national development plan which includes enhanced integration between Nigeria and the Benin Republic. Our development plan includes taking into account what investments are required in Benin to enhance our integration with Nigeria in trade terms. It is true that many agreements have been signed to push our integration forward, but they have not been implemented.

At the level of ECOWAS, we embrace free movement and integration, and at the African level, AfCFTA envisages this; so we need to move urgently to make this a reality.

Our investment programme must be revised to factor in all factors of the Nigerian economy. We seek to set up an inter-ministerial technical committee that will jointly prepare a draft document for our legislatures. I am ready to sign an executive order to appoint members of the council to advance mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors.

There have been difficulties bilaterally on the issue of smuggling. We will work hard to coordinate and ensure that your interests are protected as we integrate our economies. I want us to make history together, President Talon said.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

December 6, 2023

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Tuesday marked the sixth day of the ongoing 28th meeting of the United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP28) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The days event was themed, Energy/Industry/Fair Transition/Indigenous Peoples Day by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The event focussed on broad spectrum of solutions from deploying large scale renewable energy to decarbonising the energy of today. It also highlighted solutions for the heavy-emitting industry including steel, cement, and aluminium.

Similarly, because the indigenous people play a pivotal role in the protection and preservation of over 80 per cent of the planets biodiversity, the day also dissected the significance of their intergenerational knowledge, practices, and leadership in climate action.

According to the UNFCCC, the world needs to decarbonise rapidly, while continuing to progress economically. To do this, the climate summit organisers said it is critical that this development happens sustainably and inclusively to support lives and livelihoods while protecting the planet.

World leaders and experts at the dummit participated in several side events across different pavilions and high-level meetings with relevant experts and entrepreneurs at COP, amidst efforts to mobilise finance and secure partnerships with developmental firms for their respective countries.

Based on this, on Tuesday, one of our correspondents at the ongoing summit took to the streets of the gleaming Dubai Expo Citythe venue of this years conference, to interview Nigerians regarding renewable energy and lessons the Nigerian government and citizens at COP can take home to achieve just energy transition for all.

What are Nigerians at COP saying?

Speaking to PREMIUM TIMES at COP28, Amara Nwankpa, Public Policy Initiatives at Shehu Musa YarAdua Foundation Director, explained that a transition to renewable energy in Nigeria is an important economic imperative because it will drive the countrys economy into the future .

However, he said, despite Nigerias huge energy supply, the majority of Nigerian communities are still energy poor.

Mr Amara noted that over 80 per cent of Nigerian households still cook with firewood. He said there was a need for Nigerians to embrace renewable energy but must be available, accessible and affordable to members of the communities.

On his part, Nigerias Minister of State for Environment, Iziaq Salako, who is one of Nigerias delegates at COP28 said Nigeria, as a country, is moving towards renewable energy like the rest of the world.

Our energy transition plan is gradually moving Nigeria from the high dependence on fossil fuel to renewable sources of energy like solar, wind, hydroelectricity and geothermal among others, he said.

He explained that with more technology and research, renewable energy, through solar, will be more readily available and affordable for Nigerians in the coming years.

In a similar manner, Baliqees Salaudeen, a young Climate Justice Advocate, said there is a need for African leaders to work together in order to make renewable energy more affordable and accessible across African communities.

She urged African leaders to speak with one voice, work together and learn from one other and other countries that have got their renewable energy right, to address issues of lingering poor electricity supply in their countries.

Working together makes things more effective and it helps whenever they visit countries that have already developed to know what they actually want, she said.

Ure Utah, Founder of Bridge Synergy, said one of the ways the Nigerian government can make renewable energy accessible, affordable and available to Nigerians back home is through interventions.

If there is a pricing strategy whereby the government has its own footprint, investment and finds necessary partners, technology, companies and solutions and then tries to bring them into Nigeria. These companies have solutions that dont cost a lot of money, she said.

Meanwhile, Lucky Abeg, a Commonwealth youth mobiliser, said Nigeria has the potential to tap into the enormous renewable energy( Energy mix).

He said world leaders are having conversations on how countries can tap into technologies that will enable Nigeria to leverage on its resources to have access to clean energy.

Mr Abeng he noted with excitement that Nigeria, at the ongoing COP28, has strongly added its voice to the push for decarbonisation as a way of accessing other energy mix that they have.

I think this COP is going to provide us with new technologies and also new financial structures that will enable us to access renewable energy back home, he told PREMIUM TIMES in an interview.

In his intervention, Aliyu Baba-Ari, Head of Business Development Unit at the Nigerian Centre for Climate Renewal, Resilience and Adaptation (NICCRRA), said there is a need for the Nigerian government to subsidise renewal components of energy.

He is worried that there will be a lot of resistance from the importers of generators in Nigeria once the government decides to switch from fossil fuel to renewable energy

Renewable Energy in Nigeria

At the ongoing COP28 negotiation, just and equitable energy transition and finance are some of the burning conversations coming up the negotiation table, with over 117 world leaders already committed to tripling renewable energy by 2030.

Interestingly, one of Nigerias priorities at COP is to secure more finances from investors to achieve its Energy Transition Plan and other relevant climate actions in the country.

As of 2022, renewable energy accounted for 16.4 per cent of the total electricity capacity in Nigeria. The share experienced a decrease over the past years. On the contrary, the total renewable energy capacity in Africa has been keeping an upward trend.

According to a report Statisense, in 2022, the electricity demand in Nigeria amounted to 32.1 terawatt hours. This, the statistics firm said, followed an upward trend observed since 2020. Nevertheless, it said a large share of Nigerian citizens remains refrained from access to electricity. In 2020, the report said just over 55 percent of Nigerians had access to electricity, leaving 45 percent of the inhabitants in the dark.

Tackling those power grid issues while the population grows rapidly remains one of the challenges the Nigerian government faces to ensure economic development, statisense noted.

Ongoing moves and efforts

On Tuesday, World leaders and experts deliberated on several energy mix options available for nations to achieve just energy transition globally. COP28 President, Sultan Al-Jaber and Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency, discussed accelerating a just and orderly energy transition to deliver ambitious climate outcomes and keep the North Star of COP28, 1.5C, within reach.

Similarly, government ministers and CEOs of leading businesses discussed accelerating the commercialisation of hydrogen projects to help keep 1.5C within reach.

Together, they all discussed how to unlock the socio-economic benefits of cross-border value chains for hydrogen and its derivatives.

39 countries have endorsed the Hydrogen Declaration of Intent to pursue mutual recognition of hydrogen certification schemes, the COP28 organisers noted.

According to the CEO of COP28, Adnan Amin, an estimated 2.3 billion people across the world continue to use polluting fuels when cooking.

He said the lack of progress on clean cooking is estimated by the World Bank to cost more than $2.4 trillion each year.

On Tuesday, Mr Amin stressed the importance of ambitious climate action to enhance outcomes for health, gender, climate and environment.

Amidst efforts to upscale climate actions in all ramifications by 2030, world leaders at the ongoing COP28, have initiated several initiatives and made pronouncements of several pledges aimed at catalyse sustainable finance for climate action globally.

This story was published with the support of Climate Trackers COP28 Climate Justice Reporting Fellowship

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has renewed its call on Governor Rotimi Akeredolu to transmit power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

The state chairman of the party, Fatai Adams, who made the call during a press conference on Tuesday in Akure, said Ondo is in a precarious state due to its political situation derived from the ailment of the governor.

Mr Akeredolu has not been to his office in Akure since he returned from a medical vacation in August. He has been in his private residence in Ibadan where he is said to be receiving medical attention.

As a result, officials of his government have had to travel to Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, when they need to get his approvals for their memos.

The constitution provides for the deputy governor to act when the governor is unable to discharge his duties, including due to health challenges.

But the governor has instead kept his deputy at arms length while the state House of Assembly tried to remove Mr Aiyedatiwa from office.

After a grim power struggle within the state government, President Bola Tinubu summoned the parties to Abuja after which they announced a peace deal that checked moves by the rival camps to sack the deputy governor or declare him as acting governor.

While critics immediately described the agreement as a recipe for confusion, loyalists of the governor said it would ensure peace as the next governorship election in the state draws near.

However, an allegation of forgery of the signature of the governor made against officials of the state government is again threatening the status quo.

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Kayode Ajulo, had levelled the allegation against aides of the governor, but the state government quickly denied it.

Following the denial, Mr Ajulo and some prominent indigenes of the state responded by calling on the state government and other relevant authorities to investigate the allegations.

Briefing

Meanwhile, while briefing journalists on Tuesday, the PDP chairman said there was a criminal interplay of selfish determinism by cliques within government circles, and the governors family overbearing interplay in government business.

Mr Adams said while the PDP sympathises with the governor on his health challenge, it was deeply concerned about the ruinous cost it had brought upon the state, adding that the most obvious of the cost was the emergence of a cabal, largely informal that had seized every initiative, mindlessly driving the state to penury.

As we speak, there is no clear leader of government business, the governor remains on his sick bed, the deputy governor is still battling for his political survival, irrespective of President Bola Tinubus much-proclaimed intervention and our state continues to wander in darkness.

Most disturbing, however, is that our finances are suffering as hard-earned resources of the state are being pilfered by interest groups within and outside government, this is to the detriment of our development and wellbeing.

The party cited concerns that a N7 billion palliative fund disbursed by the state government did not go to the people.

He urged the government to render an account of its stewardship and the state of the states finances.

While urging the governor to transmit power to his deputy, the PDP recalled the admonition of Mr Akeredolu to the late President Umaru YarAdua, when he was ill.

We wish to remind Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of his admonition to President Umaru YarAdua when he was ill, he said and we quote, no matter how much you love your country, it should not be at the detriment of your health. It is not your Party or your wife that will determine whether you are capable of handling state matters; it is only your doctors

It is now crystal clear that Akeredolus doctors have since instructed him to stay away from his office and state, this certainly underscores the fact that he is currently not fit to handle state matters; we urge Mr Governor to please use his then advice to the late President YarAdua and again transmit power to the Deputy Governor in the interest of our dear state.

We have heard stories of how Babajide (governors son) rides the Governors official convoy to visit his friends, that is ludicrous and an errant abuse of power and privileges. The mass of Ondo State people abhor, detest, disapprove and reject such actions.

We also note the total indiscipline and rudeness of some members of the State Executive Council to the office of the Deputy Governor, it merely indicates that the Akeredolu administration is rudderless, not cohesive and bereft of the required legitimacy to remain atop of the affairs of Government any longer.

We urge Governor Akeredolu to have a sense of history, he must care enough about what history will record about him, truly he is Governor, still ailing, the health of the state cannot be dragged to his sick bed alongside him; posterity will not take kindly to this mean and shortsighted attitude.

The PDP had earlier challenged the state House of Assembly on the screening and approval of caretaker committees for the local governments on 29th November.

The party described the act as a breach of the provisions of the constitution which in Section 7(1) states that the system of Local Government by democratically elected government council under this Constitution is guaranteed and accordingly, the Government of every state shall subject to Section 8 of this constitution ensure their existence under a law which provides for establishment, structure, composition, finance and functions of such councils.

In furtherance of Section 8, the Ondo State Local Government System, Establishment and Administration and other Auxiliary Matters Law, 2006 requires that there shall always be an election to fill vacant positions to the office of the Chairman, Vice Chairman and Councilors in the Local Government Areas.

These law provisions were flagrantly disobeyed and trampled upon by the House of Assembly in its quest to serve purposes inimical to the Local Government system, Mr Adams said.

In view of the above, we immediately went to Court to challenge this rape of the Constitution and an injunction was given to the effect that those interlopers should not be sworn into office as they remain unknown to the law.

To our consternation and further confirmation of our declaration of the absence of leadership in Government business, some officials of Government and the APC Chairman, Ade Adetimehin, organized and swore in those interlopers as officials of the Local Governments, this is indeed a criminal action and an absolute disrespect and disregard for the rule of law.

Most unfortunately, however, a supposed senior citizen and presumed learned person, Princess Oladunni Odu presided over the illegal swearing-in of illegal officers at the unholy hour of 11 p.m. on Thursday night.

In view of the above, we will certainly approach the Court to commit those responsible for these illegalities to jail for contempt of Court, the PDP chairman said.

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The police in Delta State, South-south Nigeria said they have detained their operative for allegedly shooting a motorist in the state.

The video of the incident was posted on X (formerly known as Twitter).

The police spokesperson in the state, Bright Edafe, who disclosed the arrest of the operative in a statement on Tuesday, identified the victim simply as Lucky. He did not, however, give the name of the operative and the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Mr Edafe said the incident occurred around 4:34 p.m. on Tuesday at Ekrerhavwe Junction, Agbarho, while the officers were on a stop-and- search duty.

The Commissioner of Police, Wale Abass, commiserated with the injured motorist, and wished him speedy recovery, according to Mr Edafe.

Mr Abass directed that the detained operative be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Asaba for a thorough and speedy investigation, and assured that the operative will face disciplinary measures, including criminal prosecution.

Mr Edafe, in his earlier response to the incident, described it as a sad event while assuring the public that justice will be done.

The incident

The X user who posted the video of the incident around 7:12 p.m. on Tuesday stated how police operatives opened fire on the victim, with bullets hitting his leg and abdomen.

In the video, a man, in tears, could be seen shouting, See dem here! Dem don shoot my brother.

Victor! Victor! the man kept shouting, apparently to get the victim to stay strong. See the oga wey shoot-am here, he said in Pidgin English while pointing at the operative.

The victims voice could also be heard in the video, calling for help while lying down in the back seat of a car. Make una pray for me, he cried out in pain.

The clip showed some operatives armed with AK-47 rifles looking unperturbed at the scene of the incident.

The incident occurred a few months after a man was shot dead by a police officer along a major road in Delta State.

PREMIUM TIMES in April reported how a police operative, Ubi Ebri, in Delta was dismissed for allegedly killing a man who refused to offer him a N100 bribe.

The victim, Onyeka Ibe, was shot during a stop-and-search operation along Ugbolu-Illah Road in the state.

The killing angered youths in the area who carried the victims corpse in a stretcher and marched through major roads in Asaba.

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The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) and the Arewa Youth Movement (AYM) have called for the resignation of the Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru, over the rising insecurity in the North.

The groups staged a protest at the entrance of the National Assembly on Wednesday.

The protesters, who numbered about 100, carried placards with the inscriptions such as Sleeping Badaru, it is time to wake up, Where is Badaru and others.

The North has continued to grapple with insecurity in recent years. While the North-east is battling with Islamist insurgents and terrorists, the North-west and parts of North-central are ravaged by banditry.

Last Sunday, the Nigerian Army mistakenly bombed some civilians in a community in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, North-west Nigeria leading to the death of over 30 people with several injured.

Protest

Speaking on behalf of the protesters, AYM Secretary, Nasir Ishaku, they are acting based on available facts on the ground.

He said the groups have been observing the attitude of the minister to work, and that they are not impressed with his performance.

We observed with total dismay the lacklustre performance of His Excellency, the Minster of Defence, Muhammad Badaru, in handling the Ministry of Defence not only as a critical but also a strategic ministry in the Federal Republic of Nigeria. As a result of that, the security situation in the country keeps deteriorating since his inception as Minister of Defence, Mr Ishaku said.

He added that There is hardly a week without terrorists attacking one community or the other. People have been killed and are still being killed in their homes, farms and even places of worship. Nigeria keeps losing members of the armed forces which include the army, the air force, the navy and members of the Nigeria Police Force.

Our university students are still in captivity and no one knows where they are. These are the clear indications that the minister is incompetent to handle that sensitive ministry.

Mr Ishaku urged President Bola Tinubu to prevail on the minister to resign if he is unable to discharge the function of his office.

Using this crucial medium to draw the attention of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed force of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. His, Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCON to ask the Hon. Minister of Defence, Muhammadu Badaru, to wake up from his slumber to face his national responsibility or honourably resign because the security situation is deteriorating under his watch, he said.

Mr Badaru was appointed as the defence minister by Mr Tinubu despite not having any background in defence or security. He is a former governor of Jigawa State.

READ ALSO: Nigerian university students protest fee hike

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, is a former governor of Zamfara State, which has also experienced insecurity in the past few years.

Both were sworn in on 21 August.

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Vietnams production of bananas averages at about 2.1 million metric tonnes per year

The department quoted statistics released by the General Administration of Customs China stating that the northern market imported 1.46 million tonnes of bananas worth US$912.4 million during the first 10 months of this year, down 7.1% in volume and down 10% in value compared to the same period last year.

The average price of imported bananas reached US$623.2 per tonne, marking a drop of 3.1% year on year.

Most notably, China increased banana imports from Vietnam but decreased the imports from the Philippines, due to Vietnams geographical location coupled with the rise of costs in the Chinese market.

The countrys production of bananas, a fruit that can be harvested all year round, averages at about 2.1 million metric tonnes per year, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

In a relevant move, on November 11, 2022, the Vietnamese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Chinese General Administration of Customs signed a protocol requiring phytosanitary procedures for fresh bananas exported into China as part of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trongs official visit to China.

At present, Vietnam boasts 11 fruits licensed to enter the Chinese market. Among these fruits, the country has signed numerous Chinese protocols relating to phytosanitary requirements for four kinds - mangosteen, passion fruit, durian, and banana.

Hoa Binh exports first batch of Dien pomelos to US

At the ribbon cutting ceremony (Photo: VNA)

The first batch of Dien pomelos weighing 16 tonnes, part of an order of 48 tonnes, from Luong Son district, the northern province of Hoa Binh, was exported to the US on December 5.

Speaking at the ceremony, Vice Chairman of the provincial People's Committee Dinh Cong Su affirmed that it is the second year Hoa Binh has exported Dien pomelos, but there is a significant difference compared to December 2022 when only one container was flown to the UK.

He said this year, the province has received orders for the pomelo from several EU countries and three orders from the US, affirming the expansion of export markets and the rapid increase in the export volume of agricultural products from Hoa Binh.

Carrying grapefruit to containers

At present, the pomelo tree is becoming a key crop in Hoa Binh. In particular, the area dedicated to Dien pomelos this year has reached over 3,200ha, accounting for nearly 60% of the total pomelo cultivation area and 31% of the citrus tree area in the province. The expected yield of Dien pomelos this year is over 52,000 tonnes, mostly in Yen Thuy, Luong Son, and Kim Boi districts.

Local agencies and localities support pomelo growers, by expanding the areas that are granted identification codes, regularly monitoring food safety and those subject to plant quarantine, enhancing training for farmers and supplying essential supplies for production. Support has also been extended to farmers in acquiring certifications such as VietGAP and GlobalGAP. As the result, the quality of exported pomelos has improved considerably.

Goods volume surges at Quang Ninhs Mong Cai border gate

The total volume of commodities imported and exported through Mong Cai international border gate in the northern province of Quang Ninh reached more than 1.4 million tonnes as of December 3, up 74% from a year earlier, according to Tran Bich Ngoc, head of the border gate management board.

Of the total, nearly 706,650 tonnes of goods transported by 43,405 vehicles via the Bac Luan bridge II border gate, a year-on-year increase of 29.2%.

Nearly 706,650 tonnes of goods transported by 43,405 vehicles via the Bac Luan bridge II border gate as of December 3, a year-on-year increase of 29.2%. (Photo: VNA)

About 35,730 tonnes of goods were transported via the Km3 4 Hai Yen border crossing, up 72.9% year on year.

Besides, authorities at the Mong Cai international border gate carried out immigration procedures for over 3.9 million people.

Vietnamese 5% broken rice export price hits new high globally again

High demand for rice has prompted the export price of Vietnamese rice to rise to a record high of US$663 per tonne, the highest in the world at present.

A tonne of Vietnamese 5% broken rice was offered at US$663 on December 4 transactions, up US$13 from the previous day, according to the Vietnam Food Association.

This is the highest price the Vietnamese rice has recorded over the past more than 10 years, except for 2008 when a tonne of the 5% broken rice was traded for US$1,000.

Meanwhile, the Thai 5% broken rice also rose by 8% to US$625 per tonne, while the similar rice of Pakistan was also sold for US$600 per tonne, US$50 more than the price on offer several days ago.

Major global importers are increasing the purchase of rice, including Vietnamese rice.

Export traders attributed the rise in the Vietnamese rice price to the high purchasing power in the global market and a limited supply of rice domestically.

In addition, the price of rice in the domestic market remains high, forcing businesses to offer high prices to make a profit.

Fitch Solutions, a leading provider of insights, data and analytics, recently said trade restrictions and risks from early El Nino phenomenon caused importing countries to increase rice reserves, further fueling export prices.

Pham Quang Dieu, chief economist of Agro Monitor, Vietnam Market Analysis and Forecasting Joint Stock Company, warned that rice businesses should be cautious about a long delivery contract in 2024 because of a limited supply and difficulty in credit capital.

In mid-2023, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development said Vietnam is likely to export between 7.5 and 8 million tonnes of rice this year.

Statistics show Vietnamese businesses shipped abroad 7.75 million tonnes of rice in the first 11 months of the year for US$4.4 billion, up 36% in value year on year./.
A nine-man panel constituted by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesome Wike, has revealed that Greatness Olorunfemi, a victim of the notorious one-chance robbers in Abuja, the nations capital city, was brought to the Maitama hospital dead.

Ms Olorunfemi, a community developer and member of the Young African Leaders Initiative Network (YALI), reportedly died at the hospital where she was rushed after the attack along the Katampe-Kubwa road.

Various reports on social media claimed she was denied treatment at the hospital for not providing a police report.

On 4 October, Mr Wike constituted a nine-member panel to investigate the death.

Findings by the panel revealed that contrary to social media reports, Ms Olorunfemi was not abandoned by the facility.

Findings

Speaking at the public release of the investigative report on the death of Ms Olorunfemi in Abuja on Wednesday, the chairman of the panel, Muhammad Muhammad, confirmed that the victim was brought in dead to the hospital.

Mr Muhammad said there was no evidence that she bled before arrival or after arrival at the hospital.

He said the panel had three terms of reference including to determine if the victim was brought in alive or dead, and what transpired up to the time of her death.

The panel was also authorised to find out if Ms Olorunfemi bled to death while she was in Maitama District Hospital and to make recommendations on how to forestall future occurrences.

What is clear to us from the interview we had with all the interested parties that honoured our invitations conclusively found out that she was brought in dead and she was not bleeding and did not bleed and there was no evidence that she bled before arrival or after arrival at the hospital, he said.

We also found out that the nurse saw her under 40 seconds, the house officer saw her in three minutes before a casualty officer saw her in five minutes.

He said there was no demand for a police report before attending to her because we can see that all the people who came to see her body did not talk to the good Samaritan who brought her until after they had seen her and conveyed their findings to them.

Based on the CCTV camera evidence, the panel stated that the victim received care at 8:35:50, 8:39:00, and 8:41:00 p.m., respectively.

The panel, however, regretted how the deceased body was handled at the hospital, emphasising that all corpses should be treated with respect.

We also found that the handling of her body was below standard and the reason was that the system was overwhelmed at that point, he said.

There were three bodies and all the other beds inside the emergency were occupied by patients and then the last body to be brought before Ms Greatness was occupying the available stretcher.

The panel noted that some recommendations have been made in improving infrastructure, staffing, training and retraining, and incentives for healthcare personnel.

Insecurity

In her remark, the Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat of the FCT, Dolapo Fasawe, noted that Ms Olorunfemis death which was due to insecurity in the FCT, was avoidable.

Ms Fasawe said the FCT minister has directed all security arms to beef up security and that he is committed to ensuring safe transportation for commuters in the territory.

In the next couple of months, I believe we will reduce the incidence of insecurity, she said.

She said the FCT is working with the police to ensure there is a police post in every hospital in the territory.

She said provisions have been made to expand the mortuary and consider private partnerships to have more support for our mortuaries.

I apologise to the family of Ms Greatness for the way her body was treated even after confirming her death. The human body should be treated with dignity and respect.

Investigative panel

The panel consists of the representatives of the Nigerian Medical Association, Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, Medical Women Association of Nigeria, National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, and Association of Resident Doctors.

Others are the Association of Pathologists of Nigeria, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, the General Counsel, FCTA, and the Health Services Department.

Background

The Maitama General Hospital was accused of negligence in the death of Ms Olorunfemi for allegedly refusing to treat her after she was rushed to the facility by sympathisers.

An X user, @Gbemilekhe, who shared the story on the platform, said the hospital, located in the centre of Abuja, requested a police report before treatment could commence.

A viral video on 27 September, also showed Ms Olorunfemi by the roadside along the Maitama-Kubwa expressway after reportedly being pushed out of a vehicle by a suspected criminal gang disguised as commercial drivers.

According to an audio tape from the witness that also went viral, passersby had taken her to the Maitama District Hospital for treatment but was rejected by the hospital staff over alleged refusal to present a police report.

The hospital, then said the patient was brought in dead.

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The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, has denied reports that the renovation of his official residence will cost N10 billion as proposed in the 2024 Appropriation Bill.

Some media reports had inaccurately claimed that the official residence of the CoS would be rehabilitated with N10 billion as allegedly contained in the budget presented by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly last week.

The reports generated controversies surfaced on social media Wednesday.

Many social media users criticised President Tinubu for extravagant spending despite the hardship Nigerians are facing due to the removal of petroleum subsidy.

But Mr Gbajabiamila said the reports arebfalse and that no such fund was earmarked for his office in the proposed budget.

PREMIUM TIMES review of the proposed budget showed the media reports to be wrong and Mr Gbajabiamila to be right.

The CoS spoke on the matter on Wednesday via his verified X platform, (formerly called Twitter).

Mr Gbajabiamila, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, explained that the sums quoted by the media organisations were allocation for the renovations of the Presidential Quarters in Dodan Barracks and the Vice Presidents Lodge in Lagos.

I have seen social media commentary regarding the 2024 Appropriation Bill, particularly the provisions under the Office of the Chief of Staff to the President. Owing to the erroneous nature of these reports, it has become necessary to clarify that there is no provision in the 2024 Appropriation Bill for the renovation of any residence for the Chief of Staff to the President. I live in my private residence.

The sums mischievously quoted by online bloggers and fake news merchants are for renovating the Presidential Quarters in Dodan Barracks and the Vice Presidents Lodge in Lagos, to overhaul the information management and communications facilities in the Presidency to meet modern standards and to provide vehicles for the staff of the Presidency. The sums proposed for these projects are clearly stated in the budget proposal and bear no resemblance to the deceptive online commentary.

This administration welcomes and encourages scrutiny of government expenditure; this is why the budget proposal is publicly available. However, healthy public debate about government actions requires us to be responsible with our utterances and engage based on facts rather than insinuations and falsehoods, he said.

Only last week, some Nigerians strongly criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for allocating N15 billion for the construction of a new official residence for the vice president in the territorys 2023 supplementary budget.

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Four Nigerian citizens in Ondo State have applied to the state high court for an order compelling the state House of Assembly to set up a panel to probe the health condition of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.

The applicants are Olufemi Lawson, Isijola Kike, Ologun Ayodeji and Arogbo Olaniyi, who are all indigenes of the state.

The court, on Wednesday, granted them leave to serve notice of the hearing on the respondents, who are the Speaker of the Assembly, Olamide Oladiji; the Assembly, Governor Akeredolu and members of the state executive council.

Mr Akeredolu has not set foot in Akure since his return from a three-month medical vacation in August.

The opposition Peoples Democratic Party and other groups had called for him to transfer power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

The court on Wednesday granted the applicants leave to begin the process of filing the substantive suit in which they raised the importance of upholding public trust and ensuring transparency by elected officials.

The applicants said they were seeking clarity on Governor Akeredolus health, having been away from the state, for nearly six months.

The applicants had filed an exparte motion at the court on the 25th of October.

The motion was brought pursuant to section 6 (6b) of the Nigerian 1999 Constitution as amended as well as Order 22 Rule 1 of the Ondo State High Court Rules.

The applicants urged the court to issue an order of mandamus against the first and second respondents to compel them to carry out their statutory and constitutional duties on the third respondent (Mr Akeredolu) as stipulated under section 189(4) of the 1999 constitution, as amended.

The suit is predicated on 11 grounds supported by a 30-paragraph affidavit, with one exhibit marked exhibit A, which is a letter written to the second respondent by the applicant through their counsel.

In his ruling, the judge, A. Kolawole, following the submission of the legal team to the applicants, led by Dotun Ajulo, Fadeshola Ojamomi, A.V. Ajayi and K.A. Mogbojuri, stated that the hurdles and lacuna associated with public interest litigation have since been set aside in the case of Adetona Vs Federal Republic of Nigeria and Inakoju vs Adeleke.

The court, therefore, granted the prayers of the applicants to proceed with the case.

The matter was therefore adjourned to 11 January 2024.

But speaking on the matter, the spokesperson of the House of Assembly, Olatunji Oshati, said the assembly was yet to be served any notice.

I have only seen it on social media. we have not been served and that is why it will be difficult for me to respond or react to the ruling, Mr Oshati said.

A senior lawyer based in Akure, Femi Emodamori, told PREMIUM TIMES that the leave granted to the applicants was not an order to compel the respondents to set up a medical panel, but a leave to file their suit.

He said the applicants now have the permission of the court to serve all the respondents with the notice of the suit as well as file the suit properly at the court for onward prosecution of the case.

Mandamus is in two stages, Mr Emodamori said. The first stage in a mandamus proceeding is the stage where you obtain the leave of the court to now apply for that mandamus itself.

The order itself has not been granted yet, contrary to the inaccurate media report. What has been granted is the leave or permission to come and apply for an order to compel the House of Assembly to set up a medical panel.

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I dare say this is where the ship of optimism may sink. Too many cooks spoil the broth, is a popular saying that perfectly describes the so-called peace deal. A ship does not sail well with four or five captains. Therefore, asking the deputy governor to remain as such and do the work of the governor, but to be oversighted by three enforcers and monitors, with one each from the legislature, the executive and the party structure is an invitation to chaos that could engender more confusion.

The lingering political crisis in Ondo State over Governor Rotimi Akerodolus health appeared to have thawed last week when President Bola Tinubu waded in to find an acceptable and amicable settlement to it. Despite the good intentions behind the presidents engagement with the warring parties, some of the clauses in the adopted resolutions might elicit or even fuel more feuds in the no distant future. What the president achieved in the temporary truce was basically to uphold party supremacy under one family and keep the crisis off the prying eyes of the opposition, at least for now. However, the issue is not even about party rivalry; it has more to do with the constitutionality of the truce and how far it can endure and keep the ruling party intact ahead of the states 2024 off-cycle governorship election.

Governor Akerodolu has been in and out of the hospital in the last few years. His return after his last three-month medical leave abroad has not been a smooth sail either. While he is expected to reside and govern from Akure, the state capital, the governor is recuperating, probably under the supervision of his doctors, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Yet, from that position of vulnerability, the governor could instigate the impeachment of a man he once publicly declared as his anointed successor, after he ditched his former deputy, Agboola Ajayi, before their second term election in 2020. It is also not impossible that Aiyedatiwa might have gotten something up his sleeves in the sinister game of thrones in Ondo State. Not that the Speaker of the states House of Assembly too is not culpable, after all any tilting of the delicate balance in the unfolding intrigues can put power in his hands, literally, because if Aiyedatiwa is out of the way and Akerodolu is pronounced incapacitated, the Speaker takes charge as governor.

All these and more elevated the stakes of the political crisis in the state before President Tinubus intervention. As part of the deal to nip the crisis in the bud, the House of Assembly, led by Speaker Olamide Olajide, called on all to embrace peace and maintain the status quo, while the impeachment plans against Aiyedatiwa were terminated.

The question to ask is: Who is in charge? I do not want to believe the Presidents imprimatur is on this mess called a resolution, for this is messy and out of sync with the letters and spirit of the constitution, and there is no guarantee that it will or can even work. The days ahead will reveal the intentions and secret wishes of the individuals involved.

The peace agreement became absurd when the Speaker added that an undated letter of resignation must be written, signed by the embattled Deputy Governor and submitted to the President, while he continues to perform the functions of office as Deputy governor and that three enforcers including the State chairman of APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, the speaker of the State House of Assembly Olamide Oladiji and Secretary to the State Government, Catherine Oladunni Odu (are) appointed to monitor compliance with the foregoing resolution. This clumsy arrangement is not a solid solution; it is a recipe for more crises. It is tantamount to giving with one hand and taking with the other.

I dare say this is where the ship of optimism may sink. Too many cooks spoil the broth, is a popular saying that perfectly describes the so-called peace deal. A ship does not sail well with four or five captains. Therefore, asking the deputy governor to remain as such and do the work of the governor, but to be oversighted by three enforcers and monitors, with one each from the legislature, the executive and the party structure is an invitation to chaos that could engender more confusion.

The question to ask is: Who is in charge? I do not want to believe the Presidents imprimatur is on this mess called a resolution, for this is messy and out of sync with the letters and spirit of the constitution, and there is no guarantee that it will or can even work. The days ahead will reveal the intentions and secret wishes of the individuals involved.

The normal thing is for the deputy governor to take over from his principal, the governor, in any event of failing health, as constitutionally provided for. But in Ondo, intrigues and individual ambitions have further polarised the state, and I would be surprised if any form of governance is still taking place. Besides, in this season of budget preparation and presentation, the Ondo people deserve to see an improved and purposeful budget preparation with regards to their welfare in various sectors such as health, education, and infrastructure development, and not squabbles among ambitious political gladiators.

By the fragile nature of the deputy governors position, I wonder whether it is still relevant. We need an amendment of the constitution or a national debate to determine the fate of these two positions, because the way we are going, even the spare-tyre role of the deputy may no longer be necessary.

This has equally raised the question of the place of the deputy governor and vice president in our form of liberal democracy. This phenomenal mutual suspicion between the head and his/her deputy is historical. Starting from the First Republic when Chief Obafemi Awolowo and his Deputy, Chief Akintolas bitter quarrels led to their separation, to the Olusegun Obasanjo-Atiku Abubakar feud and Umaru YarAdua-Goodluck Jonathans, the deputy governor/vice president is hardly allowed to breathe. It is worse when the president or governor is sick, as in the YarAdua and now Akerodolu cases, which makes it difficult for one to be judgmental.

But why is it such a big deal to resign and hand over when the office concerned is not an inheritance? Dont they know that handing over properly or resigning from your position due to ill-health is honourable and could stop opportunistic hawks from speculation and fighting each other? Are individuals now bigger than the state? How a governor on the sick bed could instigate the impeachment of his deputy over the purchase of a bullet proof car in a politically volatile environment beats my imagination? Is it his money? Even if it is morally reprehensible on the part of the deputy governor, what about the political expediency and security imperative? Are there no better ways of sorting things out than this brawl over a position that is so transient?

By the fragile nature of the deputy governors position, I wonder whether it is still relevant. We need an amendment of the constitution or a national debate to determine the fate of these two positions, because the way we are going, even the spare-tyre role of the deputy may no longer be necessary.

More Universities or More Funding for Universities?

Instead of starting new universities, what we need is more fundings, manpower development and infrastructure. Government should fund research for the betterment of the universities, so that they can compete globally.

There are bills before the National Assembly seeking the establishment of 32 more universities in the country. This is in addition to the existing 52 federal, 63 state, and 147 private universities. There are also 40 federal polytechnics, 49 state owned ones and 76 privately owned polytechnics among other higher institutions, according to a PUNCH report. Meanwhile our universities at both the federal and state levels are underfunded.

Universities are supposed to be centres of excellence but ours just graduate half-baked students and throw them into the already saturated unemployment markets. There are no industries to absolve the graduates from these universities. The MSMEs available are closing shop because of the high costs of petrol, electricity, and unavailability of forex.

The taxes generated are diverted to fund the lavish lifestyles of the elite in government. That is why we can afford to send only 422 delegates to COP28 from a nation that does not care about environmental degradation in the oil producing communities, gas flaring or desertification. As inconsequential as refuse disposal is, Abuja the nations capital, is littered with heaps of refuse.

Instead of starting new universities, what we need is more fundings, manpower development and infrastructure. Government should fund research for the betterment of the universities, so that they can compete globally.

Zainab Suleiman Okino is a syndicated columnist. She is the chairperson of Blueprint Editorial Board and can be reached via zainabokino@gmail.com

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When I first started thinking about writing this article, my conclusion was that with the way young Nigerians are fleeing from the country  with the implication that almost 100 per cent of the time  the children they have will never return to Nigeria, the very crop of human beings that should trigger continuity especially in Nigerias south, are gone forever. I mean, who is going to bring new development to our land? Who are the ones who will build the houses of the mid-21st century? Who will develop modern plans that will transform the face of our societies and seek to compete with what happens abroad? I was overawed with the feeling of despair. I know for a fact that perhaps only half of those who have left will come back to Nigeria actively. And perhaps less than 20 per cent will come back home eventually, develop roots here, build or buy houses to come and live in, and by every means, less than 1% of them will be able to convince the families they make abroad to come back here with them.

This is because:

The systems created abroad are designed to make it incredibly hard for you to detach, no matter how much you desire to. When I opened a company in the UK and decided to leave after 8 years, it took more than two years of valiant efforts to be able to clear all sorts of obligations  some of which I never knew existed. Let me be more specific. The credit culture and system is designed to suck you in. your life is run by government even as they pretend to be invisible. Unlike in Nigeria, you cannot easily wake up one day to depend on friends in high places to create something new. You must join the queue because 99.9% of the time, nobody that matters knows you, especially if you migrated  like most people  midway into your life and didnt grow up there. The tax system is also brutal and even the more you earn, the more they take from you and the more you dig yourself into that system. There are expectations. The more you earn, they bigger your house and all other obligations. Theres nothing like leaving voluntarily. You must continue servicing the system oftentimes until you die. The value of the currency is another very strong factor. Whereas as at our independence, the colonial leaders left our currencies at par with theirs (and so were able to buy our raw exports cheap  imagine taking all our cocoa, palm oil, and groundnut at sums that were not enough to expand our economy  today, our currency is a shadow of what it was). Nobody leaves a country with a strong currency for one with a weak currency or with future prospects of depreciation, except you have set up cashflows to continue working for you in the country with strong currency. The illusion of strong currency usually blinds us to the phenomenon called Purchasing Power Parity (PPP). This PPP means that $1 in America is basically nothing (a beggar may reject same from you), but in Nigeria, in the hands of a poor person, it goes very far. One white blogger recently demonstrated this in Lagos, when with $1 he bought a meal of rice, beans and spaghetti with boiled egg, bought meat pie, a huge puff-puff, corn on the cob and a bottle of coke (all for about N950). Of course, you will not get such a deal in organized restaurants in Nigeria but we are talking about the really poor here. On the average what you need $10 to buy in the USA, you probably need less than $2 equivalent to buy here. For as long as people dont consider the PPP factor, even if Nigeria continues to improve, perhaps our naira must be revalued and made stronger (for the psychological advantages) before our people abroad begin to consider moving back in significant percentages. Also, job opportunities that can help them maintain their standards of living must be available here. Only a very few of them will be able and willing to start up their own companies and make a success of it. The fact is that the first age of japa (the Andrew era), around 1984, was the beginning of the mass media and internet era. Images are powerful. And our young people started seeing images from abroad. Before then, all we could see were post cards and pictures sent from abroad. The more Africans  especially Nigerians  started seeing what abroad looks like, the more emigration accelerated. The more we disdained our country. We totally ignored the historicity of economic and social development in itself. We wanted development and wanted it now! This new japa age coincides with the AI  Artificial Intelligence  era, where communication has gone haywire, and we now have an overload of those enticing images that captivate the young and not-so-young. This coincides with even more frustration with our relatively slow pace of development, and indeed the fact that our development trajectory and journey is not within our control or imagination.

First, lets look at the upsides. For one, nobody can hold anybody down. Everybody wants personal improvement first. Only a few lucky people have sacrificed their lives for country and not lived and died to regret it. Ive seen a few transformational pictures of people who left Nigeria looking very haggard only to turn out very fresh and apparently prosperous abroad. Perhaps if it was only for the nutrition they get  or perhaps some steady cashflow that guarantees food on the table  nobody can convince such people to stay back here for any reason. There are millions who struggle for survival daily in Nigeria and Africa whose lives get totally transformed abroad. Some are able to also run away from family problems and help from abroad after sorting themselves out. Japa is good because abroad, nobody cares who you are, what tribe youre from or anything of that sort. All you need is an opportunity to prove yourself, if youre a focused hardworker. And boom! You can take off. Certainly, it should not be made to sound easy. In many of the abroad lands, you have to send out 2,000 job applications before you get lucky. You also may have to start with menial jobs that you would never touch at home. Many times, they want to pass you through the crucible  perhaps to remind you how difficult it was for their ancestors to build their lands.

Japa is great because it organises many of our young folks. They learn as soon as they arrive abroad that the system is no respecter of persons. There are really no big men. Western nations have learnt over time that all these things that waste our times upon back home. Western economies  and of late those in the East like China  are robust enough to absorb most people and guarantee a certain level of comfort. Japa-ees (allow me to call them that) are also exposed to the joys of modern living. They see the best infrastructure that man has made so far, and the imaginative amongst them can only marvel at the achievements of these developed countries, sometimes getting very angry at why the same achievements have not been possible in their own countries. The wiser ones will be able to document these achievements with a view to replicating same at home someday.

But in the end, japa as we call it (the propensity of young southern Nigerians to leave en masse for other societies and economies that have arrived), could lead to extinction of our land and culture and whatever we call civilizations here if mishandled. The only way it has worked for other societies like the Chinese is that they learnt so much in the foreign nations, documented so much, and returned home to replicate. They were often accused of stealing intellectual property but they pressed on anyway. Today, their story has changed. Even Britain was once a japa nation. In the era of Pax Britannica when that small, rainy archipelago dominate the world, many Brits loved to travel and live in other lands and never returned. Some were attracted simply to the better weather elsewhere. Many were posted as colonial officers. Others were drifters, smugglers, farmers, businessmen, or clergy, some of whom settled in places like Zimbabwe, Zambia, Kenya or South Africa, to name a few.

What We Should Do

Theres no point convincing the average young Nigerian not to leave. We should see the emigration as an advantage and seize on it as appropriate. We should plan to reap this in many ways. We should cultivate those who are emigrating, first to ensure they feel positive about their country of origin. We should educate them about the economics of their action and the implication of japa. Things like PPP and the tax/credit systems abroad should be thoroughly analyzed for them. Also the economic struggles Nigeria is going through having to source many billions of dollars to fund the needs of emigrants. Our diaspora commission should go into overdrive to create a strong database of positive Nigerian people out there who are ready to contribute back home  as they did in Ireland and elsewhere. Governance in Nigeria must greatly improve and very soon too. We must be purposeful and determined to make visible change. Plan big positive ideas to engage the sweeping numbers of new emigrants  bonds and investments that can provide a long-term anchors for the emotions of our diasporans. Come to terms with the reality of the geographical fluidity of the new generation and how physical location.

Recent Development

Recently, Imo State governor announced that he was trying to secure 4,000 foreign jobs for Imo youths. This statement met with acerbic comments from a section of Nigerians who believe it is wrong-headed. But I believe we should look at the realities again. Whether the Imo governor tries or not, Imo youths are everywhere looking to japa from Nigeria if they have an opportunity. Perhaps the phenomenon is such that even governments now have to engage with it and let Nigerian youths know that we understand. A government-guided process will most likely yield more for Nigeria in the longer term, than leaving the process to individual struggles. Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Ireland, are countries that got wise and started to actively harness their diaspora power, sometimes even deliberately training youths for export. Indeed, if our youths secure fairly good jobs in the right countries, under six months, the investment will pay off. Or how do we balance the fact that Nigeria trains doctors, nurses, and engineers for next to nothing (where most universities charge a fee of less than $500 yearly per medical students), while we allow them to be cheaply harvested, in brains, mind, and spirit by these smarter countries. The tragedy is that these youths end up hating Nigeria which groomed them, in spite of her inefficiencies.

If Governor Uzodinma could actually secure jobs for 4,000 youths in the medical field, and they could started earning and sending money home to their folks, even at $1,000 monthly (I know its hard to save any money out there), that is $4,000,000 monthly, or an equivalent of N4,000,000,000 at going rates. Thats just for starters. These guys could transform Nigeria.

Creating Medics Faster

This brings me to the second issue. The Nigerian government has got wiser. Universities have been asked to ramp up the pace at which they produce medics  doctors and nurses (and indeed everyone in between  laboratory attendants, physiotherapists etc). The world cannot seem to have enough of them. Perhaps we ought to have started 10 years ago. I can imagine the thousands of students that have been frustrated out of their minds and refused to study medicine or other top courses especially in our public universities where lecturers still take delight in asserting their supremacy at every turn. But now, I understand that many universities are fixing to double their intakes. In 6 years, we shall hit an inflection point. And I believe the trick is to encourage Nigeria doctors who have matured abroad to start to give back home. Its the cycle of life. If Philippines can supply customer service people worldwide, we too could hold the medical niche and we will be the better for it. Better still, medics earn a lot more and have fairly assured job security. Parents should also seize this opportunity. We cannot just be complaining about how Nigeria is bas. There are opportunities everywhere for those who can hold their breaths and logically pursue such.

Even Techies

To add to this potential for Nigeria to make a global mark by supplying the matured economies with medical personnel, Nigeria is currently working on tooling our technologically-inclined youths as well. The savvy minister for Digital Technology, Dr Bosun Tijani has launched what he calls the 3MTT (3 Million Technical Talents) whereby he intends to train three million young Nigerians in the tech space and make them employment-ready for the world. The Vice Presidents office also features another program titled iDICE (Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises). This programme also targets as many as six million youths with jobs, training, and entrepreneurship opportunities, and makes millions ready for the world. Imagine that we could multiply the example of the Imo Governor by a factor of 100? That is a potential inflow of $400 million monthly, or N400 billion from a fresh set of investments. That is $4.8 billion yearly, and I am only being conservative really.

Housing and Property  Dancing Chairs

Nigerians have noticed that just as many of us are selling off houses and other properties in Nigeria to pay for visas and employment opportunities abroad, many Nigerians abroad are also keenly looking for houses to buy in Nigeria. A newspaper report last week narrated how the houses being abandoned or sold to feed the japa phenomenon by fresh Nigerians, are being snapped up by fresher Nigerians abroad who are perhaps already sick and tired of the abroad life. I guess it is a matter of conditioning, but most people will tell you that there is nowhere like home. Nigerians everywhere count themselves lucky to be from Nigeria  her failures apart. Is it the weather, the food, the people, the culture, the nature, the fact that it is only here in Nigeria that most Nigerians feel totally in control and at home? Is it even the economy? Yes, it could be much better run and the opportunities could be better unleashed and made available to all, given a broad mindset, but this is one place where people dont feel oppressed by the credit system, the insurance system, the policing system, the racial system, and all sorts of rigidities that sort of stifles and strangulates many foreigners after they may have achieved the basic needs. The opportunities not to remain basic for life, to achieve ones actualization, and transcendence  when one wants to start giving back to society and enjoying a dignified retirement  is here.

Cycle of Life

So, this cycle of life is something we cannot stop. Indeed, I know that Britain is losing people to the USA. They too call it brain drain. Many athletes and academicians, not to talk of techies and engineers trained in the UK end up in the USA. Several articles exist online that clearly show how living in the USA is far better for working age people, than the UK. USA itself has recorded many incidents of losing their top brainiacs to China. The Chinese on the other hands  despite creating more engineers yearly than most nations on earth put together  are pushing their working population to everywhere in the world (Africa, Asia, South America, Europe etc).

The unstoppable cycle continues. Rather than curse and fight it, it is wiser to strategically position for it. Nigeria should get past the negativities and levitate above her failures. Our diaspora commission should create a large database of Nigerians everywhere and continue to bring them together for investment purposes. We should change the narrative of Nigerians being fraudsters and negative disruptors and this will take serious work. We should also create massive programs of reorientation and mass mobilization here in Nigeria to bring our youth energy together.

The way I see it, we dont have to panic. The way things are going and if we do things right, Nigeria will also have to attract highly-skilled professionals from countries like Ghana, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Liberia and even the Francophone countries (where a good number speak good English), to fill the vacancies created by our japa-ees, even as we rapidly step up the training of our own. President Tinubu is determined to get it right. A lot is coming to Nigeria. And the President is one person I will not advise anyone to bet against.

Tope Fasua, an economist, author, blogger, and entrepreneur, can be reached through topsyfash@yahoo.com.

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The 12th Practical Nigerian Content Forum 2023 got underway on Tuesday at the Nigerian Content Towers, Yenagoa, with the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Simbi Kesiye Wabote announcing that the agency has completed 83percent of the 96 initiatives it started under the Nigerian Content 10-year Strategic Roadmap.

The strategic roadmap was launched at the end of the year 2017, with the goal of increasing Nigerian Content in the oil and gas industry to 70 percent by the year 2027. The roadmap is undergirded by five pillars and four enablers to drive the focus areas. It is supported with short, medium, and long-term initiatives.

Presenting the scorecard of the NCDMB at the PNC which was attended by over 700 oil and gas stakeholders, the Executive Secretary indicated that the Boards focus would shift to the remaining initiatives, which according to him required some heavy lifting to bring them to fruition.

He reported that Nigerian content level in 2023 stood at 54 per cent, just like in 2022. The calculation is based on the Boards monitoring and evaluation of industry activities.

According to him, this performance is well above the minimum target of 47 percent Nigerian Content set for 2023 by the Boards Project Management Office (PMO) just like we outperformed the 42percent Nigerian Content target set for 2022 by achieving 54 percent Nigerian Content.

He indicated that the top three performers of in-country spend are Shipping, Surveying/ Positioning services, and Inspection/ Testing and Certification with each at 100 percent NC level, while the bottom three performers are Modification and Maintenance at 26 percent NC level; Health, Safety and Environment at 31percent NC level; and Materials and Procurement at 32 percent NC level.

He expressed concern that the stagnation of the Nigerian Content achievement at 54 percentraised questions on whether we had reached a point of stagnation or an inflection, leading to the decline in Nigerian Content level in the oil and gas industry.

The NCDMB boss, who was making his last PNC Keynote Address as the Executive Secretary of NCDMB reminded the top government functionaries and industry stakeholders that getting the industry to this level of Nigerian Content is not a walk in the park, and called on all stakeholders to play their part to prevent the industry from rolling back to the dark days of implementing Nigerian Content as a token of consolation.

He cautioned that The nexus between high Nigerian Content levels and the relative peace in the industry must not be lost on us, noting that a lack of leadership backing at all levels opens the door for the practice to take the back seat.

The Executive Secretary took advantage of the occasion to present what he termed a reflection on the journey in the last seven and a half years of being in the saddle as the Executive Secretary.

Citing data from the Boards Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Joint Qualification System (NOGIC-JQS), he said registered indigenous industry operators have increased from 53 in 2018 to 114 in 2023, while indigenous service companies increased from 8,000 to 11,000 within the same period. Also, individual registrations surged from 140,000 to almost 400,000.

Under one of five pillars of the Roadmap, namely, Technical Capability Development, are other major accomplishments, one of which is the increase in in-country fabrication capacity from 60,000 tons per year to 250,000 tons within the aforesaid period.

Mr Wabote disclosed that eight industrial parks being developed by the Board to support manufacturing and assembly of equipment and input materials required in the industry are at various stages of execution. He reported that the Nigerian Oil and Gas Park Scheme (NOGaPS) at Emeyal-1, in Bayelsa State, and a similar Park at Odukpani in Cross River State are due for commissioning in the first half of 2024.

In a goodwill message, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, commended the NCDMB for its outstanding performance in local content implementation, and for the ongoing PNC Forum.

He assured the industry stakeholders that the Federal Government is committed to promoting cleaner, more sustainable practices within the energy sector, even as the country continues with hydrocarbon extraction.

Mr Lokpobiri, a former senator, was represented at the PNC by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr Gabriel Aduda. He said Nigeria aligns with the global push for environmental stewardship and would explore all means of making production processes conform to cleaner technologies.

While drawing attention to the theme of the Forum, Deepening Nigerian Content Amidst Divestments, Domestication and Decarbonisation, the Minister called on stakeholders to embrace the challenges posed by divestment to actively promote domestication and steadfastly pursue the path of Decarbonisation.

The Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alabo Gideon Ekeuwei, lauded the NCDMB and its Management for the extraordinary successes and charged the participants to explore avenues for collaboration, joint ventures, and partnerships that would help Nigeria to fully harness Nigerian Content potentials.

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The Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal led a delegation of officials from Zamfara to Kigali, Rwanda for a four-day retreat marking the end of Better Education Service Delivery for All (BESDA) in the State.

The retreat commenced on Monday, 4th December, with a series of events aimed at revamping the educational sector in Zamfara State.

According to a statement by the Governors Spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, BESDA is a World Bank initiative that aims to improve literacy rates and provide equal access to education for out-of-school children in Nigeria.

The statement added that the BESDA programme aims to improve basic education and strengthen accountability for results in states like Zamfara.

He said: In line with the recent declaration of a state of emergency on education in Zamfara, Governor Dauda Lawal led a high-powered delegation comprising the Secretary to the State Government, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Executive Chairman of the Zamfara State UBE, and others to Rwanda for a retreat.

The United Nations organised the four-day retreat as part of its Better Education Service Delivery for All (BESDA) programme. The programme aims to reduce the number of out-of-school children in Nigeria, which is currently the highest in the world according to UNESCO.

In an interaction with the Rwandan Ministry of Education, the Zamfara State delegation held vital engagements on policies, strategies, programmes, mechanisms, and initiatives for addressing Gender-Based Violence in schools (lessons learnt, achievement, challenges, and way forward).

Other vital areas discussed, according to the statement, are policies, strategies, and programmes to address early pregnancy cases in schools and support provided in identified cases.

The Zamfara delegation also held a brainstorming session with the Rwandan Basic Education Board, where ideas were exchanged, especially on the overview of the work of the board and possible ways to improve the Zamfara State Universal Basic Education.

Governor Lawals entourage also visited selected public schools (outside Kigali) with smart classroom settings to adopt and implement the same in Zamfara public schools.

The statement added that during a visit to the African Leadership University, Governor Lawal secured scholarships for Zamfara indigenes displaced by banditry in the State.

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However, there is still a substantial emission gap between the current national mitigation plans and a plausible pathway to 1.5 degrees.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen. (Photo: Embassy of Denmark to Vietnam)

Both Vietnam and Denmark have set ambitious emission reduction targets. At COP 26, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh made a commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, which sent a clear signal to the world regarding Vietnams direction and determination towards low-carbon and sustainable development. Denmark aims at reducing emissions by 70% in 2030, 100% by 2045 and 110% - so to become a net negative emitter  by 2050.

Vietnam is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change with a high dependence on fossil fuels and an increasingly energy-hungry booming industry, with strong export orientation. Being one of the fastest growing economies in Asia and increasingly faced with demands for green energy by foreign investors seeking to establish production in Vietnam, Vietnam is an important partner in the global fight against climate change.

At COP28, Denmark announced a total of 50 million USD of support to the most climate-vulnerable countries. Half of the committed will be allocated to the new loss and damage fund that was decided on the first day of COP28. Denmark will also launch the alliance Group Of Negative Emitters (GONE) aimed at initiating a race to the top among countries to determine ambitious goals of mitigation.

Meeting with each other at COP 28 in Dubai, both Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh of Vietnam and Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of Denmark praised the long and fruitful cooperation between Vietnam and Denmark, especially in the area of climate change and in the energy transition. In light of the Green Strategic Partnership between Denmark and Vietnam established on November 1st, both leaders agreed to instruct relevant agencies to take concerted measures to further deepen the bilateral relationship.

On the occasion of Vietnams launch of the Resource Mobilization Plan for the Just Energy Transition partnership (JETP), of which Denmark is a member alongside the G7 countries, the European Union and Norway, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said: "Congratulations to Prime Minister Chinh and the government of Vietnam on todays important step towards implementing the Just Energy Transition Partnership. At this critical moment in Vietnams transition, Denmark and IPG stand ready to support Vietnam to get on track to deliver on its ambitious Net Zero 2050 goal. Denmark has more than 40 years of experience with green transition and we have shown that the green transition can be a driver for jobs and green economic growth. We are committed to sharing our experiences and knowhow to support Vietnams just energy transition".

Photo: Embassy of Denmark to Vietnam



Mr. Nicolai Prytz, ambassador of Denmark in Vietnam also added: "At COP 28, Denmark is pushing for an agreement on a global phase out of fossil fuels and global targets for massively scaling up renewable energy and improving energy efficiency. In Vietnam, we are supporting such ambitious targets through our joint Energy Partnership program between Vietnam and Denmark. The program, which has been running for 10 years, aims to provide Vietnamese government agencies with the tools and knowledge to develop policies and plans for the energy transition, as well as support the implementation of these. The recently launched Green Strategic Partnership has opened an even greater opportunity for Vietnam and Denmark to further strengthen our long term cooperation on green transition and low carbon economy in various strategic sectors of the economy"

Results and experiences from the joint Energy Partnership Program between Vietnam and Denmark (DEPP)will also be shared at the Vietnamese Pavilion, where directors for Global Cooperation of the Danish Energy Agency will deliver presentations on Danish Green Transition experience and key learning from the Energy Partnership with Vietnam and How Denmark tracks emissions and emissions of the Vietnamese energy sector based on the Energy Outlook Report work./.
Latest Technology Innovation Seeks to Support AAA Users, Arbitrators & Broader Legal Community with Incorporating Generative AI into ADR Processes

NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Arbitration Association (AAA) and its international division, the International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR), announces the launch of the AAAi Lab , a web center supporting AAA users, arbitrators, in-house counsel and law firms with policy guidance, educational webinars and tools for embracing generative AI in alternative dispute resolution.

"Innovation is in our DNA, and we see generative AI technology as an opportunity to support our mission to lead the world in providing innovative measures to prevent and resolve disputes fairly and efficiently," said Bridget McCormack, president and CEO of the American Arbitration Association and special advisor to the ABA AI Task Force. "Our chief legal officer, Eric Tuchmann, and his team are releasing today the first of many lab initiatives that will provide data protocols, guidelines, rules and clauses that affirm our valuesintegrity, service, process fidelity, innovation and inclusion. We're excited to share webinars and workshops to showcase how the AAA is building Generative AI into the workflow of alternative dispute resolution."

The AAAi Lab will be a collaborative center for the ADR community, providing a platform to engage with the AAA's ongoing efforts in leading product and service innovations and to participate in defining the future of ADR. At kick-off, the Lab will feature the AAA's guidance on AI and ADR, and link to contributions made by others in the ADR community. The Lab will also include News, and Event pages with updates on AAAi Lab's work, which will show how the AAA is using AI for improving internal processes and external services and products.

The AAAi Lab's webinar and policy projects are supported by David L. Evans, former AAA Board Member, Joshua Walker, co-founder of the Stanford Law School's CodeX program and one of its first business start-up off-shoots, Lex Machina (and author of "On Legal AI"), and Diana Didia, chief information and innovation officer of the AAA. Didia will lead workshops with her team and provide best practice recommendations around AI and technology improvements for ADR practitioners and users.

"One of our first initiatives involves showcasing at Legal Week how the AAA is using AI to improve both internal processes and the customer experience, as well as product innovations showing how easily transferable such tools are across our legal community. Our upcoming ClauseBuilder AI (Beta) tool, premiering January 30, 2024 at Legal Week, will enable in-house counsel and law firms to quickly add written AAA ADR clauses using natural language AI search and retrieval capabilities," Didia said.

Working with the AAA community, the Board and the wider legal community, the AAA will provide an anchoring vision, built on responsible AI principles, to best serve the ADR community and to ensure ethical AI innovation across the ADR spectrum.

For more information, please visit AAAi Lab

About the American Arbitration Association

The not-for-profit American Arbitration Association (AAA) is the leading provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services for parties in commercial disputes, having administered more than seven million ADR cases since its founding in 1926. With 29 offices in the United States, in addition to Singapore, the AAA provides organizations of all sizes in virtually every industry with ADR services and products. For more information, visit www.adr.org.

About the International Centre for Dispute Resolution

The International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR) is the international division of the American Arbitration Association (AAA) and the largest international provider of dispute resolution services. Established in 1996, the ICDR serves parties from over 100 countries with multilingual staff experienced in international dispute resolution proceedings, and a roster of over 725 arbitrators and mediators. For more information, visit www.icdr.org .

Media Contacts:

Steve Errick

American Arbitration Association

212-716-3974

[email protected]

SOURCE American Arbitration Association
DENTON, Texas, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AcademicInfluence.com is pleased to announce their article, "Best Small Colleges in Texas 2024". This article features schools that are regionally accredited and known for their excellent student support services, small class sizes, and graduation rates. All of these small Texas schools promise to provide students with an excellent education and training opportunities so that students are equipped to excel in the workforce. The aim of this article is to display the best small Texas colleges, their top programs, and what a student can expect if they plan on attending any one of these institutions.

Academic Influence

How Academic Influence Ranks Programs

Using its proprietary InfluenceRanking Engineinnovative machine-learning technology that objectively measures a school's influence through its students, faculty, staff, and alumniAcademic Influence ranks academic persons, institutions, and disciplinary programs. The schools listed in this article are ranked according to unbiased criteria to create a more accurate and fair ranking. Academic Influence uses objective measures to assist students in finding the right school for them based on their career goals, location, and academic rigor.

Why Pursue an Education in Texas?

Texas boasts of over 30 colleges and universities that have over 10,000 students enrolled every year. While many of these institutions provide an excellent education for students, Texas's smaller colleges maintain the high academic standards and history necessary to draw students from across the country.

Academic Influence writes that reasons to pursue an education in Texas might differ depending on the person. For some, it might be the ability to receive in-state tuition costs and the option to be close to family. Others might come for the affordable tuition rates, the opportunity to go to their dream school, or simply the chance to live in Texas with the state's rich culture, diverse cities, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Benefits of Pursuing an Education at a Small College

Attending a small college has many advantages for students. Among these advantages, Academic Influence lists small class sizes and great community atmosphere. Small class sizes prove to be a perk for students, as studies have shown that students learn faster and perform better in smaller classes. This is in part due to increased participation with classmates, communication with professors, and individualized attention.

In regards to a good community atmosphere, having a circle of friends and being part of a community is key to a student's success. Those plugged in with their peers are more likely to complete their education due to increased support during stressful times and avenues for enrichment outside of the classroom. Having solid connections in college can also benefit students once they graduate and enter the workforce. By creating a well established network with classmates and professors, students are more likely to have career mentors and encounter ideal job opportunities.

Schools Ranked in Academic Influence's Article

Academic Influence's ranking was created to ensure that students have the critical information necessary to decide whether or not one of these small Texas colleges is the right fit for them. These schools and programs have been ranked based on their academic rigor, the quality of alumni they produce, and the contributions they make to academia. The schools and their ranking are listed as follows:

Trinity University Abilene Christian University St. Mary's University, Texas University of Dallas Austin College Houston Christian University Southwestern University Texas College St. Edwards University Concordia University Texas Dallas Baptist University University of St. Thomas Wiley College Our Lady of the Lake University Texas Wesleyan University Schreiner University Sul Ross State University Paul Quinn College Wayland Baptist University Brazosport College Hardin-Simmons University LeTourneau University Lubbock Christian University McMurry University Howard Payne University

To view the full article, click here .

Media Contact:

Chloe Dembski

502-517-7040

[email protected]

SOURCE Academic Influence
TUCSON, Ariz., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Advanced Fertility Care (AFC), a prominent member of the Pinnacle Fertility network, proudly announces the integration of Reproductive Health Center in Tucson, Arizona, into its family of fertility care providers. This addition marks a significant step in expanding AFC's world-class fertility services and care throughout the state of Arizona.

Reproductive Health Center, located at 4518 E. Camp Lowell Drive, Tucson, AZ 85712, will now operate under the esteemed banner of Advanced Fertility Care, maintaining its current location and commitment to the Tucson community.

Dr. Scot Hutchison, the managing Reproductive Endocrinologist & Infertility Specialist (REI) at Reproductive Health Center, will continue to lead the Tucson team as part of Advanced Fertility Care. Dr. Hutchison, an alumnus of the University of Arizona and the University of Kansas, with a fellowship from The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, brings his extensive expertise in reproductive medicine to the expanded AFC team.

Dr. Hutchison, renowned for his compassionate and patient-focused approach, adds, "Joining forces with Advanced Fertility Care is a milestone for us. It allows us to enhance our services with the support of a larger network, ensuring that we continue to meet the evolving needs of our patients in Tucson and beyond."

Advanced Fertility Care (AFC) is renowned for its cutting-edge fertility treatments, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), and egg preservation services. As a key member of the Pinnacle Fertility network, AFC provides its patients with access to comprehensive, nationwide programs such as Pinnacle Surrogacy and Pinnacle Egg Bank, enhancing the range of advanced fertility solutions available to prospective parents. The integration of Reproductive Health Center into the AFC fold, as well as into the broader Pinnacle Fertility network, signifies an expansion of these high-quality services, ensuring that individuals and couples in the greater Tucson region have seamless access to a diverse range of reproductive care options.

"Bringing Reproductive Health Center into the Advanced Fertility Care group of clinics and the Pinnacle Fertility network represents an exciting evolution in our mission to deliver accessible, exceptional fertility care and to assist our practices with their growth plans. This integration not only strengthens our service offerings but also ensures that individuals and couples in Tucson have access to a wider array of advanced reproductive technologies and treatments. Together, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care and expanding the possibilities for family building in our community," said Dr. Nathaniel Zoneraich, Founder and Medical Director at Advanced Fertility Care.

Reproductive Health Center patients will continue to receive care at the same location in Tucson with the added benefit of the resources and expertise that Advanced Fertility Care brings and the support of Pinnacle.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit azfertility.com or call (480) 874-2229.

About Advanced Fertility Care:

Founded in 2005, Advanced Fertility Care has been dedicated to helping individuals and couples achieve their family-building dreams with compassionate, personalized care and advanced technology. With multiple locations and a team of experienced fertility specialists, AFC is a leading provider of fertility care in Arizona and a member of the Pinnacle Fertility network.

About Pinnacle Fertility

Pinnacle Fertility is a patient-first, physician-led fertility care platform, supporting high-performing fertility clinics and comprehensive fertility service providers nationwide. Under a united mission of fulfilling dreams by building families, Pinnacle clinics offer innovative technology and processes, compassionate patient care, and comprehensive fertility treatment services, ensuring families receive a high-touch experience on their path to parenthood.

SOURCE Pinnacle Fertility
LONDON, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Air Peace was conferred the 'Best Airline for Customer Service, West Africa' for 2023 at the prestigious Global Brand Awards.

The Prestigious Global Brand Awards , an annual event by Global Brands Magazine (GBM) based in England, strives to honour worldwide brands that distinguish themselves across diverse industries while ensuring that readers are up-to-date on pivotal trends in the realm of branding. Global Brands Magazine conducted an extensive evaluation encompassing various criteria, such as passenger feedback, service quality, communication, staff courtesy and professionalism, safety and security, innovation in customer service among others. Air Peace stands out prominently due to its excellent client support. Therefore, Air Peace well deserves Global Brands Magazine's recognition.

Commenting on winning the award, Jay Reddy, Director, "We are thrilled to acknowledge Air Peace as the recipient of the 'Best Airline for Customer Service in West Africa' award. This achievement is a testament to Air Peace's unwavering commitment to excellence, prioritizing passenger satisfaction, and setting a remarkable standard for the aviation industry in the region. Their dedication to delivering exceptional customer experiences has truly set them apart as a leader, and we congratulate Air Peace on this well-deserved recognition."

Commenting on winning the award, Stanley Olisa, Corporate Communications Lead, Air Peace, said, "We are truly delighted by this prestigious recognition by the Global Brands Magazine. It is a huge testament to our firm commitment to consistently delivering unmatched customer service for our esteemed customers, guaranteeing a memorable experience across all touchpoints each time they fly with us. This award is dedicated to our Customer Service Team for their strong drive in ensuring excellent service delivery. Air Peace will continue to raise the bar in providing best-in-class flight services across domestic, regional and international markets, with an increasing modern fleet and a top-grade workforce."

ABOUT AIR PEACE

Air Peace is West and Central Africa's foremost airline which commenced scheduled commercial flight operations in October 2014, and has experienced steady growth in route and fleet size, becoming the largest carrier in Nigeria. The airline has a network of 21 domestic routes, 8 regional routes and 6 international destinations, including Dubai, Guangzhou, Jeddah, Tel Aviv and Mumbai. Air Peace recently secured permit to fly to the United Kingdom and will be kicking off flights soon. The airline boasts of an increasing modern fleet of over 30 aircraft, including 5 brand new Embraer 195-E2s plus a recent firm order for 5 brand new E175s.

ABOUT GLOBAL BRANDS MAGAZINE (ENGLAND)

Global Brands Magazine (GBM) has been at the forefront, bringing news, views and opinions on brands shaping the future of their industry. The UK-based magazine provides its readers with the latest news and information on 'best-in-class brands across the globe. Each year, GBM develops awards for companies that stand out, have a unique vision, exceptional service, innovative solutions and consumer-centric products among their industry leaders. The Magazine has over 9.5 million visitors and 14 million page views per month, making it one of the best online magazines. The Magazine also maintains a strong presence on social media, with over 20k+ Facebook likes, 10k+ Instagram followers, 25k+ Twitter followers, and 3k+ LinkedIn followers.

ABOUT THE GLOBAL BRAND AWARDS

Global Brand Awards honours brands for their excellence in performance and rewards companies across different sectors for the quality of their services. The Brand Awards highlight the accomplishments of organisations that have performed remarkably well in finance, education, hospitality, automotive, lifestyle, education, real estate, technology, and others. Global Brand Awards recognise vital players who progress towards excellence by providing a platform to acknowledge their efforts. In addition, GBM strives to create awareness concerning the significance of such organisations and rewards them for their notable efforts with the ultimate global recognition. We are excited to announce the highly anticipated awards ceremony, which will take place at The Athenee Hotel in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand, in May 2024. To learn more about the awards, please visit the Brand Awards Winners section on the GBM website.

To nominate your company or business leader for the Global Brand Awards 2023, please click on the following link:

https://www.globalbrandsmagazine.com/nomination-form/

Checkout our social media shout outs from the link below:

Facebook: https://bit.ly/3Gvv7y2

Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3uGRnT3

Instagram: https://bit.ly/47Oho1C

Twitter: https://bit.ly/4803JnC

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2080309/4043105/GBM_AWARDS_2023_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Global Brands Magazine
AU President Sylvia Burwell and Dr. Murthy will honor more than 1,700 graduates on Dec. 17

WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The nation's 21st Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, will deliver a keynote address at American University's two fall commencement ceremonies on Sunday, December 17, 2023. As the Vice Admiral of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, Dr. Murthy commands a uniformed service of more than 6,000 dedicated public health officers, serving the most underserved and vulnerable populations domestically and abroad. Continuing the long tradition of AU commencement speakers who make an impact in their community and around the world, Dr. Murthy will engage AU's changemaking graduates as they embark on new adventures empowered by their unique AU education and experience.

Surgeon General of the United States Dr. Vivek H. Murthy

Dr. Murthy's speech comes at a critical time as he just concluded his "We Are Made to Connect" College Tour and launched his 5-for-5 Connection Challenge, aimed at combating the loneliness epidemic and helping Americans build connection into their daily lives. Earlier this year, Dr. Murthy released the Surgeon General's Advisory on Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation , which warns of the profound mental and physical health risks that social disconnection poses, and the widespread nature of the issue. Supporting student thriving and mental health is a priority at American University and Dr. Murthy's work aligns with AU's ongoing engagement in student well-being, which includes the university's forthcoming Student Thriving Complex.

"Dr. Murthy and I served together at the Department of Health and Human Services during the Obama administration, so I know firsthand the dedication, skill, and compassion that drives his work as our nation's top doctor," said AU President Sylvia Burwell. "From his important work on the loneliness epidemic, and its impact on college-age youth in particular, to his service as a key advisor to President Biden's COVID-19 pandemic response operation, Dr. Murthy is a true changemaker who will inspire our graduates as they begin their own impactful pursuits."

"I am honored to celebrate this important milestone with American University's graduates this year," said U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy. "Commencement serves as a unique moment for graduates to reflect on the past and look forward to the future they want to build. As graduates begin their next chapter, I hope this time with peers, professors, and loved ones is filled with pride and joy."

Approximately 1,700 graduates will receive their degrees from all eight of AU's schools during ceremonies at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. in Bender Arena on the AU campus. Students will hear from fellow graduates at each of the ceremonies:

Ying Ting Yanie Wong , who is a double major, receiving her Bachelor of Science from the College of Arts and Sciences and the Kogod School of Business, already accepted a position as an accounting associate at PwC. Yanie fell in love with accounting by taking introductory courses at Kogod.

, who is a double major, receiving her Bachelor of Science from the College of Arts and Sciences and the Kogod School of Business, already accepted a position as an accounting associate at PwC. Yanie fell in love with accounting by taking introductory courses at Kogod. Brianna Starks , who will be awarded her Master of Arts from the School of Communication, originally thought of attending law school. Instead, she chose the School of Communication to help her launch a business focused on preparing people of color for careers in politics.

, who will be awarded her Master of Arts from the School of Communication, originally thought of attending law school. Instead, she chose the School of Communication to help her launch a business focused on preparing people of color for careers in politics. Daniella Olivares is receiving her Bachelor of Arts from the College of Arts and Sciences. Olivares wants to pursue a career in psychology and will encourage fellow graduates to embrace the unknown.

is receiving her Bachelor of Arts from the College of Arts and Sciences. Olivares wants to pursue a career in psychology and will encourage fellow graduates to embrace the unknown. Jermaine Gassaway, who is receiving his Master of Education, will speak at the second ceremony. Gassaway fell in love with teaching while working with Teach for America. His dream is to use the education he received at AU to ensure children in their home zip code have access to quality education.

This is American University's 146th commencement. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy joins other notable American University fall commencement speakers such as Thasunda Brown Duckett, president and chief executive officer of TIAA, Abby Phillip, CNN senior political correspondent and anchor of NewsNight, and Andrea Mitchell, host of MSNBC's Andrea Mitchell Reports.

ABOUT AMERICAN UNIVERSITY:

American University leverages the power and purpose of scholarship, learning, and community to impact our changing world. AU's faculty, students, staff, and alumni are changemakers who shape the future from sustainability to social justice to the sciences. Building on our 130-year history of education and research in the public interest, we say "Challenge Accepted" to addressing the world's pressing issues. Our Change Can't Wait comprehensive campaign creates transformative educational opportunities, advances research with impact, and builds stronger communities.

SOURCE American University
NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Announcing DPOP Studios , a future-forward, artist-led emergent media company founded in New York City by internationally acclaimed filmmaker, Dan Sickles .

"Our mission is to create more equitable ecosystems for today's brilliant creators, and DPOP Studios is building an incredible team of partners to accomplish exactly this." -Dan Sickles, Founder

DPOP Studios' mission is to create equitable ecosystems for today's brilliant creators. Post this a documentary film and NFT collection capturing the transformative power of cryptoart

Dedicated to developing compelling narratives across various mediums, DPOP employs new technology to empower storytelling while informing policy. Positioned at the forefront of the future of cinema, DPOP, in collaboration with creative-technologists all over the world, is producing novel, high-quality stories in cutting-edge ways and actively addressing larger industry issues surrounding ownership and distribution.

Specializing in film, blockchain technology and genre-bending, tech-forward art, DPOP Studios and founder Dan Sickles are pioneering new innovations with key partners to create powerful advancements across the film, fine art, tech and finance industries  more specifically, designing new models for the financing and distribution of emergent media.

Dan Sickles often finds his work at the foreground of cultural shifts. His first film, Mala Mala, produced by Christine Vachon and Killer Films, premiered in 2014 and received numerous awards including recognition by Amnesty International for its approach to socially-conscious storytelling. Most notably, Mala Mala would be the first-ever documentary film from Puerto Rico to receive stateside theatrical release and is one of the first to document the burgeoning transliberation movement.

In 2017, Sickles won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival for his second film, DINA, produced by Dan Cogan, Impact Partners, and Killer Films. A critical darling, DINA would win numerous awards including Best Feature Film at the International Documentary Association Awards. That same year, Sickles was recognized with the PEEK Award and the ARC Alliance Community Service Award for his work with neurodiverse communities.

Sickles and his team at DPOP Studios are currently in post-production on his third feature film, I'M NEW HERE , a multi-format, multi-platform story about the power of art and culture told through the eyes of a new user entering the cryptosphere. "In developing I'M NEW HERE, it became obvious the need for a future-leaning production company, one primed at linking new creatives to new ideas through new technology. That's how DPOP was born." says Sickles.

Forthcoming from the Studio is an exciting announcement in association with Art Basel Miami and Stability AI.

For more information on current and future projects and/or for press inquiries, contact Lauren Guido [email protected]

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Notable links:

FB/ Insta @dpopstudios

X @dpopstudios

Farcaster @dpopstudios

Discord @DPOP Studios

Linked IN @dpopstudios

Boilerplate

DPOP Studios is an emerging media studio dedicated to crafting compelling narratives across mediums and dimensions. We partner with creative technologists to create new models for financing, production, and distribution of new media.

I'M NEW HERE is the story of how the NFT space emerged and where it's going, told from the perspective of a new user. Through intertwined documentary and narrative storylines, the film explores the cryptoverse, from the blockchain's birth in 1989 to the present, with a focus on the most recent NFT market cycle. Guided by a new user, ROOKIE, we are introduced to real-world subjects - the cryproverse's most notable artists and critics who explore its origins, wonders, pitfalls and unknown potentials. Directed by Dan Sickles, produced by Hannah Roodman, Bruce Cheung, and Shane Boris, Executive Produced by William Swann, Rahilla Zafar, and Kai Turner, I'M NEW HERE is slated to premiere in 2024.

SOURCE DPOP Studios
ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. today announced it has completed the previously disclosed acquisition of Williamsville, New York-based The Evans Agency, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Evans Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE:EVBN).

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG), a global insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services firm, is headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. Gallagher provides these services in approximately 130 countries around the world through its owned operations and a network of correspondent brokers and consultants.

Investors: Ray Iardella, VP - Investor Relations Media: Paul Day, Communications Manager 630-285-3661/ [email protected] 630-285-5946/ [email protected]

SOURCE Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
Speaking at the 13th National Congress of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor (VGCL) for the 2023-2028 tenure opened in Hanoi on December 2, Party General Secretary Trong praised the efforts and achievements of workers movements and trade union organizations nationwide, emphasizing that the trade union organization of Vietnam has significantly contributed to strengthening the Vietnamese working class.

Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong delivered a speech at the 13th National Congress of

the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor (Photo: CPV)

The Party General Secretary highly appreciated and basically agreed with the Political Report of the Executive Committee of the VGCL, term XII, submitted to the Congress, especially the content, solutions and key tasks during the term. At the same time, he also raised some issues:

The leader asked the VGCL to be fully aware of its missions as a political-social organization operating in a socialist-oriented market economy under the leadership of the Party and the management of the State. Therefore, it should continue coordinating with the State, agencies and organizations in the political system and employers to better ensure the legitimate rights and interests of laborers.

He also stressed the need to further revamp the communication work and personnel training in order to build a strong, modern working class, saying that trade union organizations should help each trade union member and laborer gain deeper awareness of the Party, the regime, the class, the trade union organization, and citizen responsibilities, thus making greater efforts in studying and working, and actively participating in emulation movements. At the same time, trade unions at all levels must well perform their role as the representative of working people, taking care of and protecting their legal and legitimate rights and interests.

Delegates attending at the 13th National Congress of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor (Photo: CPV)

The Party chief pointed out the complex domestic and global economic situation, which has affected job stability and income of laborers. He urged the VGCL to pay more attention to building long-term welfare programs in support of trade union members and laborers, especially those in difficult circumstances.

With the emergence of new employment forms and relations, all-level trade unions must adapt their organizational models, as well as the goals and methods of operation to the needs and aspirations of laborers, he said.

The leader reminded trade unions of their role in the building of the Party and political system, supervisions, social criticism, and the fight against corruption and other negative phenomena.

The 13th National Congress of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor (Photo: CPV)

To meet requirements in the new situation, it is a must to further reform trade union activities and enhance the quality of trade union officials, he said, urging more attention from Party agencies, Party organizations, authorities and organizations to the work.

With the glorious tradition of the VGCL over the past 94 years, with the great achievements gained and the spirit of "Innovation - Democracy - Solidarity - Development" of this Congress, the Party General Secretary expressed his belief that in the 2023  2028 tenure, which aims at celebrating the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Vietnam Trade Union, the trade union organization and the Vietnamese workers and labor movement will make new strides, contributing to the cause of innovation, successfully implementing the cause of industrialization and modernization of the country, contributing to realizing the historical mission of the working class with country and people; building the country of Vietnam to become richer, democratic, fair and civilized./.
Reaffirms Financial Guidance Provided on November 2, 2023

ATLANTA, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Artivion, Inc. (NYSE: AORT), a leading cardiac and vascular surgery company focused on aortic disease today announced the appointment of Lance A. Berry as the Company's Chief Financial Officer, effective as of December 4, 2023. In this role, Mr. Berry joins Artivion's executive leadership team and replaces Mr. D. Ashley Lee, who will retire at the end of the year after a successful and long tenure with the Company and a distinguished career in the medical device industry. Artivion also reaffirmed its full-year 2023 financial guidance that was provided on November 2, 2023.

Mr. Berry, 51, most recently served from January 2019 until November 2020 as the Executive Vice President, Chief Financial and Operations Officer of Wright Medical Group N.V. ("Wright"), until Wright was acquired by Stryker in November 2020. Before that, Mr. Berry served as the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer for Wright from 2009 to 2018, successfully spear-heading its merger with Tornier N.V. Additionally, Mr. Berry served as Wright's Vice President, Corporate Controller from 2002-2009. Mr. Berry also currently serves on the Boards of two public companies, Treace Medical Concepts, Inc. and Vapotherm. Throughout his eleven years as the Chief Financial Officer and a senior executive at Wright, working with Wright's Board and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Berry led the Company's strategic transformation and execution to drive shareholder value and cultivated an extensive background in, among other areas, strategy, M&A, financing, business development, digital strategy and investor relations.

"I am thrilled to welcome Lance to Artivion's leadership team as Chief Financial Officer," said Pat Mackin, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. "His broad experience and proven leadership in growth MedTech companies make him an ideal addition to our leadership team, and he will add significant value in advancing Artivion and its strategy through our next stage of growth."

"I am excited to join Artivion as Chief Financial Officer and continue my commitment to driving focus, execution and significant shareholder value," said Mr. Berry. "I look forward to working with Artivion's exceptional team to continue to grow Artivion into a powerhouse leader in aortic technology and innovation."

Mr. Lee, 59, who has served as the Company's Chief Financial Officer since 2004, will retire after a transitional period. Mr. Lee, a proven leader and a winner of Georgia BioTech's CFO of the Year award in 2018, has decades of medical device experience. He helped lead the Company's efforts that resulted in a more than doubling of the Company's size since 2015. Mr. Lee will remain with Artivion in an advisory capacity to ensure a seamless transition. Mr. Lee expressed his confidence in Mr. Berry's abilities to take on the role, stating, "I have no doubt that Lance will be an excellent addition to the Artivion leadership team. His deep financial expertise and experience in the medical device industry make him ideal to lead the Company's finance, information technology, human resources and business development functions."

"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Ashley for his leadership at Artivion during a period of incredible growth and transformation," added Mr. Mackin. "Artivion would not be where it is today without Ashley's deep expertise and experience, and we wish him the very best on the next leg of his journey."

Mr. Berry officially began his role as Chief Financial Officer on December 4, 2023.

About Artivion, Inc.

Headquartered in suburban Atlanta, Georgia, Artivion, Inc. is a medical device company focused on developing simple, elegant solutions that address cardiac and vascular surgeons' most difficult challenges in treating patients with aortic diseases. Artivion's four major groups of products include: aortic stent grafts, surgical sealants, On-X mechanical heart valves, and implantable cardiac and vascular human tissues. Artivion markets and sells products in more than 100 countries worldwide. For additional information about Artivion, visit our website, www.Artivion.com.

Forward Looking Statements

Statements made in this press release that look forward in time or that express management's beliefs, expectations, or hopes are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements reflect the views of management at the time such statements are made. These statements include our beliefs that we remain on track to achieve or exceed the revenue and EBITDA growth targets for this year; and we remain on a path to meet or exceed our current year guidance, as well as to achieve our 2024 commitments to deliver double-digit compounded annual constant currency revenue growth and adjusted EBITDA in excess of $75.0 million. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, estimates, and assumptions that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations, including that the benefits anticipated from the Ascyrus Medical LLC transaction and Endospan agreements may not be achieved at all or at the levels we had originally anticipated; the benefits anticipated from our clinical trials may not be achieved or achieved on our anticipated timeline; our products may not be able to consistently retain their existing regulatory approvals or special regulatory approvals in order to be commercialized; products in our pipeline may not receive regulatory approval at all or receive regulatory approval on our anticipated timelines; or our products that obtain regulatory approval may not be adopted by the market as much as we anticipate or at all. These risks and uncertainties include the risk factors detailed in our Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 and our Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 31, 2023. Artivion does not undertake to update its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Contacts:

Artivion Gilmartin Group LLC D. Ashley Lee Brian Johnston / Lynn Lewis Executive Vice President, Phone: 332-895-3222 Finance [email protected] Phone: 770-419-3355



SOURCE Artivion, Inc.
ORANJESTAD, Aruba, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Many know Aruba for its award-winning beaches and turquoise waters, but most travelers don't know they can drink the island's water straight from the tap. That's why the Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA) is teaming up with Certified Water Sommelier, Martin Riese , to showcase Paradise on Tap , featuring limited-time bespoke travel experiences.

Source: Aruba Tourism Authority Hear from Certified Water Sommelier Martin Riese on why Arubas Paradise on Tap is one of the best tap waters hes ever tasted

Both potable and delicious, Aruba's water is made from Caribbean Sea turned tap as it goes through an extensive water treatment process to create Paradise on Tap  so good it received the highest stamp of approval from Riese.

"Partnering with the Aruba Tourism Authority on this initiative is a dream come true. I've tasted tap water from around the world and Aruba's Paradise on Tap is truly one of the best," said Martin Riese, Certified Water Sommelier and Water Advocate. "Ever since I was a child, I've been passionate about water and my mission to educate people about the importance of clean, delicious drinking water. I encourage visitors to Aruba to choose Paradise on Tap instead of bottled water  a simple way to sip in the island's natural beauty."

Experience Paradise on Tap

ATA is also inviting travelers to experience the island's rejuvenating waters in a whole new way, starting with limited-time bookable guest packages. When staying at eco-conscious properties Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort and Boardwalk Boutique Hotel, travelers receive a reusable water bottle to enjoy Paradise on Tap anywhere the tap can be turned on, and are encouraged to relax and let the good times flow.

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort : Guests can experience the regenerative power of water and nature in the ultimate wellness retreat. Harmonize your body and mind with Yoga by the Sea, Sound Healing sessions, restorative spa treatments and more. Then, explore Aruba's marine beauty through a once-in-a-lifetime private snorkel sail with breathtaking views. Available now through August 2024 . To book visit https://www.bucuti.com/wellness/packages/relax-recover

: Guests can experience the regenerative power of water and nature in the ultimate wellness retreat. Harmonize your body and mind with Yoga by the Sea, Sound Healing sessions, restorative spa treatments and more. Then, explore marine beauty through a once-in-a-lifetime private snorkel sail with breathtaking views. Available now through . To book visit Boardwalk Boutique Hotel : Guests can embrace the essence of H2O through the hotel's water-inspired activities like an ocean-wave massage and a 3-course sea-inspired lunch. Be refreshed with a floating meditation session and discover sustainable luxury with this unique coastal retreat that goes beyond the ordinary. To book the experience visit https://www.boardwalkaruba.com/en/specials

Make the Aruba Promise

Before stepping foot on island, travelers are encouraged to take the Aruba Promise , a commitment to being an eco-conscious visitor to keep Aruba One happy island for generations to come. The first step? Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it with the island's finest tap water.

"Aruba prides itself for being a destination where travelers can unwind and relax, with an exceptionally generous culture, but it's important that we work together to keep the island beautiful for future generations," said Ronella Croes, CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority. "Through Paradise on Tap, we are working to raise awareness for the Aruba Promise, a pledge to encourage travelers to be ecologically and socially responsible visitors to the island we Arubans call home."

For more information on Paradise on Tap and the Aruba Promise, visit www.aruba.com/paradiseontap and follow along on social using the #ParadiseOnTap hashtag.

About Aruba

As one of the most revisited Caribbean destinations, Aruba  One happy island  offers breathtaking beaches, diverse culinary delights, a sprawling and unforgettable Arikok National Park, and award-winning hotels and villas. A leader in innovation, the country was awarded a top spot on Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2020 list due to their ambitious sustainability efforts. In today's ever-changing world, Aruba's 'Health and Happiness Code' safety protocols provide peace of mind, while still delivering a relaxing on-island experience. Located outside the hurricane belt, explore all Aruba has to offer, from romantic beach getaways, unique wellness experiences and more, on Aruba.com .

About Martin Riese

Martin Riese is a certified Water Sommelier on behalf of the German Mineral Water Trade Association and author of Die Welt des Wassers (World of Water), which is considered the leading book in Europe on water. His passion for the natural resource has led him on an incredible journey from sitting alongside Zac Efron on Netflix's Down To Earth and appearing in Planet Water and National Geographic. Martin has traveled all over the world, sharing his expertise and love for water with locals, thought leaders and officials alike.

Contact:

Zeno Group

[email protected]

This material is distributed by Zeno Group, Inc. on behalf of Aruba Tourism Authority. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, DC.

SOURCE Aruba Tourism Authority
Plans to develop industry-specific automation solutions to help speed up automation deployment success

Automation Anywhere also announced general availability of Amazon Bedrock and Amazon SageMaker integrations for generative AI-based enterprise automation deployments

SAN JOSE, Calif., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Automation Anywhere, a leader in intelligent automation that puts artificial intelligence (AI) to work across every aspect of an organization, today announced that it has entered into a multi-year Strategic Collaboration Agreement (SCA) with Amazon Web Services (AWS). The SCA enhances Automation Anywhere's industry-leading expertise in generative AI and intelligent automation to boost enterprise productivity and power business growth, in addition to offering Automation Anywhere customers greater choice, flexibility and reliability for their generative AI deployments. The company also announced general availability of its integrations with Amazon Bedrock, a fully managed service that makes foundation models (FMs) from leading AI companies accessible via an API to build and scale generative AI applications, and Amazon SageMaker, which helps companies build, train, and deploy machine learning (ML) models for any use case with fully managed infrastructure, tools, and workflows.

The collaboration will make it easier for customers to leverage the full breadth of Automation Anywhere's intelligent automation capabilities through their AWS investments and streamline go-to-market opportunities between the two companies. The SCA also enables Automation Anywhere and AWS to deliver more value to customers through a go-to-market and co-selling program, as well as the exploration and development of new industry-specific automation solutions that will power growth and innovation in vertical markets.

"Since we first put our cloud-native Automation Success Platform on AWS, we have long-shared a mutual vision with AWS to enable every company with the potential to transform their business through an open approach to the powerful combination of generative AI and intelligent automation," said Adi Kuruganti, Chief Product Officer, Automation Anywhere. "In the next phase of our collaboration, we're excited to work with AWS to leverage the full power of generative AI to develop targeted, industry-specific solutions and completely reshape and improve the way companies work across their organization."

"The SCA with Automation Anywhere reinforces our shared commitment to making it easy, practical, and cost-effective for customers to use generative AI capabilities across their business," said Chris Grusz, Managing Director of Technology Partnerships at AWS. "We're pleased to support Automation Anywhere in the development of generative AI-powered tools that enable customers to boost productivity and power innovation."

As a member of the AWS Partner Network (APN) since 2017, Automation Anywhere previously launched a preeminent cloud-native process automation solution available on AWS. Earlier this year, Automation Anywhere also joined the AWS Independent Software Vendor (ISV) Accelerate Program, a program for AWS Partners that provide software solutions that run on or integrate with AWS.

"We have long benefited from the cloud-native automation solutions offered by Automation Anywhere and powered by AWS, and we're pleased how they've helped transform our business over the years," said Dev Gulati, Head of Automation, Columbia Sportswear Company. "We're excited for the potential of this expanded collaboration and the opportunities it unlocks for us to utilize the power of generative AI and automation to grow our business."

In June 2023, Automation Anywhere announced participation in the Amazon SageMaker Jumpstart program, a developer portal that provides pre-trained, open-source models, algorithms, and solutions for a wide range of problem types to help companies get started with machine learning, to bring intelligent automation and generative AI innovations to market. Automation Anywhere continues to work with AWS to build and deploy generative AI powered solutions in customer experience, document processing and contact center intelligence using Amazon SageMaker, Amazon Bedrock and other AWS AI/ML services, further strengthening the go-to-market relationship.

About Automation Anywhere

Automation Anywhere is the leader in intelligent automation solutions that put AI to work across every aspect of an organization. The company's Automation Success Platform is powered with generative AI and offers process discovery, RPA, end-to-end process orchestration, document processing, and analytics, with a security and governance-first approach. Automation Anywhere empowers organizations worldwide to unleash productivity gains, drive innovation, improve customer service and accelerate business growth. The company is guided by its vision to fuel the future of work by unleashing human potential through intelligent automation. Learn more at http://www.automationanywhere.com/ .

Engage with Automation Anywhere

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/541440/Automation_Anywhere_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Automation Anywhere, Inc.
NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc. ("AWH" or the "Company") (CSE: AAWH.U) (OTCQX: AAWH), a multi-state, vertically integrated cannabis operator focused on bettering lives through cannabis, announced the opening of an Ascend Dispensary Outlet, located at 6019 Milan Road, Sandusky, Ohio. The dispensary will be Ascend's third in the state of Ohio and 33rd across its seven-state footprint.1

In 2022, AWH entered into a definitive agreement providing AWH the option to acquire 100% of the equity of Ohio Patient Access LLC ("OPA").2 In addition to the Sandusky provisional license, OPA owns and will operate two other provisionally licensed dispensaries that are in the process of being built in Cincinnati and Piqua. AWH will benefit from the economics under a support service agreement ("SSA") with OPA.3

The Sandusky dispensary will be open Monday to Thursday and Saturday from 9 am to 7pm; Friday from 9 am to 8 pm; and Sunday 10 am to 6 pm. The dispensary will offer medical products from seven point-of-sale (POS) terminals, accepting both cash and cashless ATM terminals for debit cards. Via Ascend's support agreement relationship with OPA, this is Ascend's first outlet store in the state offering everyday low pricing and discounts. Ascend prides itself on offering a wide range of products, including a variety of cannabis strains, edibles, tinctures, topicals, and other cannabis-infused products. The new dispensary will feature an extensive selection, ensuring that customers have access to the products that best suit their individual needs.

John Hartmann, Chief Executive Officer at Ascend Wellness Holdings, expressed his enthusiasm for this expansion: "With the opening of the Sandusky location, we are thrilled to expand access to high quality cannabis for patients in the Buckeye State. We are grateful for our partnership with the community and the opportunity to foster better living through cannabis. Ascend was pleased to see the citizens of Ohio vote in favor of adult-use on the 7th and are hopeful to bring recreational cannabis to this store and to the other Ohio dispensaries in the coming quarters. We are looking forward to further expanding our presence in Ohio with the expected openings of the Piqua and Cincinnati stores later this year. "

The location is equipped with ample parking, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors to the area. Patients must hold an active Ohio medical marijuana card to purchase medical cannabis products at the Sandusky dispensary.

Grand Opening Events

Ascend will be celebrating the opening of this dispensary with a special event. Attendees can expect educational sessions and giveaways to mark the occasion. For more on the grand opening, sign up for alerts online at www.letsascend.com.

About Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc.

AWH is a vertically integrated operator with assets in Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. AWH owns and operates state-of-the-art cultivation facilities, growing award-winning strains and producing a curated selection of products for retail and wholesale customers. AWH produces and distributes its in-house Common Goods, Simply Herb, Ozone, Ozone Reserve, Tunnel Vision, and Royale branded products. For more information, visit www.awholdings.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes forward-looking information and statements, which may include, but are not limited to, the plans, intentions, expectations, estimates, and beliefs of the Company. Words such as "expects", "continue", "will", "anticipates" and "intends" or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information and statements. Without limiting the generality of the preceding statement, all statements in this press release relating to estimated and projected revenue, expectations regarding production capacity, anticipated capital expenditures, expansion, profit, product demand, margins, costs, cash flows, sources of capital, growth rates and future financial and operating results are forward-looking information and statements. We caution investors that any such forward-looking statements and information are based on the Company's current projections and expectations about future events and financial trends, the receipt of all required regulatory approvals, and on certain assumptions and analysis made by the Company in light of the experience of the Company and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors management believes are appropriate.

Forward-looking information and statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking information and statements herein. Such factors include, among others, the risks and uncertainties identified in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, and in the Company's other reports and filings with the applicable Canadian securities regulators on its profile on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca and with the SEC on its profile on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking information and statements herein are reasonable, in light of the use of assumptions and the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in such information and statements, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, and accordingly readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such risks and uncertainties and should not place undue reliance upon such forward-looking information and statements. Any forward-looking information and statements herein are made as of the date hereof, and except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation and disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements herein or to update the reasons that actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in any forward looking information and statements herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the content of this news release.

________________________ 1 Effective once change of ownership occurs. 2 Subject to regulatory approval. 3 AWH has the future rights to ownership of both dispensaries, subject to regulatory approval.

SOURCE Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc.
New "Pages in Paradise" Program Features Curated Vacation Reads for Resort Guests at Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana

New Year's Resolutions Meet Easy-Mode: Now Travelers Booking with Apple Vacations can check off their Travel and Reading Wish Lists

Belletrist Unveils the First "Pages in Paradise" Book-of-the-Month, Holding Pattern by Jenny Xie

NEWTOWN SQUARE, Pa., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The travel experts from Apple Vacations have teamed up with Belletrist Book Club and Penguin Random House to launch a new "Pages in Paradise" program at the luxury all-inclusive resort, Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana, this January. New Year's resolutioners looking to kick off the year with more reading, and more travel now have the best of both worlds with the ultimate readers retreat style beach-cation featuring a curated library of beach reads from their favorite book experts.

"We couldn't be more thrilled to partner with the teams at Belletrist and Penguin Random House to introduce this campaign for book lovers and vacationers. For 55 years, Apple Vacations has strived to provide guests with an easy tailor-made booking experience that delivers dream-worthy results and "Pages in Paradise" is the definition of a dream-cation," shared Dana Studebaker, Vice President of Consumer Marketing, Apple Vacations

Known for providing best-in-class vacation experiences for couples and couples with children, Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana will welcome the New Year with a newly unveiled lobby library filled with beach read selections curated by Belletrist book experts. The collection was customized by Belletrist co-founders, Emma Roberts and Karah Preiss, and will feature a highlighted book of the month as well as favorites including Priya Guns' Your Driver is Waiting, Emma Cline's The Guest, and Zadie Smith's The Fraud. Guests who book with Apple Vacations will be able to reserve beach reads in advance, delivered upon arrival by the hotel team. The entire collection will be available for viewing via the Hyatt Inclusive Collection App.

"One of the things we get asked the most by friends and the Belletrist community is: I am going on vacation, what should I bring to read on my trip? We are so excited to partner with Apple Vacations on a hotel library at Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana because it means that hotel-goers will have access to all the books we love and discover new authors without having to necessarily carry books in their suitcases! Apple Vacations has been the perfect partner to launch the "Pages in Paradise" program, combining our love of travel with our love for the literary world," shared Karah Preiss, Co-Founder of Belletrist.

In addition to the library component, "Pages in Paradise'' will celebrate book lovers all year long with a dedicated "Poolside Pages Happy Hour" featuring a book cart of select reads and a themed book-of-the-month specialty cocktail dubbed the "Pages Pour," served to guests at the resort's Infinity Pool. Guests won't want to miss the blueberry mojito inspired by Happy Place written by Emily Henry, a story of friendship taking place on the coast of Maine; or a Sea Breeze, main character Nina Riva's drink of choice in Taylor Jenkins Reid's Malibu Rising.

Founded in 2017 by best friends Emma Roberts and Karah Preiss, Belletrist is the Millennial-centric book club which has grown into a community for the curious that celebrates great books, the authors who write them, and the people who so lovingly read them. In partnership with literary experts Penguin Random House, the "Pages in Paradise" picks were exclusively curated for the partnership with Apple Vacations and will be available in both English and Spanish for resort guests.

"Books have always had the power to transport us, whether to a new romance, a different era, or a fantasy land. That's why this partnership with Apple Vacations and Belletrist is so exciting  we get to bring readers to an amazing new destination with curated beach reads at their fingertips. I can think of no greater escape! We can't wait to bring this program to life for avid readers everywhere," said Carly Gorga, Director of Brand Marketing, Penguin Random House.

To celebrate the program's launch, Apple Vacations will celebrate book lovers everywhere with the "Pages in Paradise '' giveaway going live in January 2024 in which one lucky winner will be awarded a trip to Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana complete with a signed copy of the January book-of-the-month, Holding Pattern by Jenny Xie. To enter to win the giveaway or to book your stay to enjoy "Pages in Paradise'', please visit www.applevacations.com/pages-in-paradise/ and redeem up to $150 off your stay at Dreams Macao Beach when you sign up for Apple Vacations' email and SMS list. Avid readers can follow @applevacations for the unveiling of monthly book picks, tips, and fun facts from the author and insights from the Belletrist team.

About Apple Vacations

Online travel agency, Apple Vacations, connects travelers with worldwide vacations and experiences, including resorts, flights, excursions, and transfers. Part of the leading North American tour operator, ALG Vacations, Apple Vacations offers both all-inclusive and curated experiences spanning an extensive list of over 70 destinations worldwide. Apple Vacations is the nation's largest provider of Nonstop Exclusive Vacation Flights with a robust product line including popular vacation destinations throughout Mexico, the Caribbean, the Hawaiian Islands, Central America and South America, as well as ski resorts throughout North and South America. To learn more about Apple Vacations visit the website at applevacations.com or follow the brand on social media on Facebook (@applevacations) and Instagram (@AppleVacations).

About Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana Resort & Spa

Located on the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana is situated on the picturesque Macao Beach, labeled one of the Caribbean's top beaches by UNESCO. Amid the beauty of Playa Macao, Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana sits as an idyllic haven where families and couples can experience Unlimited-Luxury inclusions. Featuring 500 luxuriously appointed suites, all with a private terrace, balcony, or swim-out pools, this resort offers a high level of luxury, amenities and comfort, beautiful scenery and impressive views, free Wi-Fi, a daily refreshed mini-bar, and 24-hour room service. Guests can enjoy six a la carte restaurants serving gourmet international cuisine, one buffet, a snack bar, and a food truck along with seven bars serving refreshing premium cocktails. With four swimming pools, a water park, and a lazy river, Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana provides activities and entertainment for guests of all ages, including kids and teens, with the supervised Explorer's Club for Kids and Core Zone Teens Club. For those looking for activities outside of the water, Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana is the only resort in the Dominican Republic housing an arcade, a bowling alley, and a pinball machine, amidst other activities such as ziplining, batting cages, a climbing wall, and more.

SOURCE Apple Vacations
Americans are withdrawing retirement funds early to address urgent financial priorities, making employee benefits even more critical for employers

NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Betterment at Work , a leading provider of modern financial benefits for today's diverse workforce, today released a new survey on the state of retirement readiness across the U.S. workforce. The report, which tracks year-over-year trends from 2022, polled 1,000 full-time U.S. employees to examine how retirement readiness and financial wellness has evolved in the past 12 months, shifts in employee benefit preferences, and how these trends have changed within a shifting economic environment.

The U.S. is currently facing a national retirement crisis: over 56 million privately employed Americans lack access to retirement savings programs through employers, leaving retirement planning to individuals who may be unsure how much to save or struggle to balance this with other short-term priorities. Betterment at Work's findings help employers understand the root cause of retirement insecurity, and how stronger benefits packages can support the competing financial needs of workers.

Key findings from Betterment at Work's 2023 Retirement Readiness Report include:

Financial instability is on the rise, impacting retirement security: 31% of employees reported facing moderate to significant financial instability, up nine percentage points from 2022 (22%). Nearly four out of five workers ( 78%) said their finances cause them anxiety. Only about half ( 52% ) of employees reported currently having an emergency fund  a seven percentage point drop from 2022 . Nearly a third (30%) of workers tapped into their retirement savings over the past 12 months to pay for short-term expenses, and less than half ( 40% ) feel confident that they'll be ready for retirement.

Student debt weighs heavy on employees as payments resume: Nearly half (49%) of borrowers stated that they did not feel financially prepared to restart student loan payments . 64% of borrowers said their student debt has impacted their ability to save for retirement, and 61% of those with children indicated they've put retirement plans on the backburner to pay for their child's education. 70% of workers say that their student loan debt causes them financial anxiety. 49% believe employers should play a role in helping employees pay off their student loan debt  this felt most strongly amongst Gen Z ( 71% of whom agreed), compared to just 27% of Boomers.

"Quiet quitting" and "rage applying" could be curbed through stronger financial benefits: 60% of employees said they would be enticed to leave their job by an employer offering better financial benefits than their current employer, a six percentage point increase from 2022 (54%). Nearly a third of workers (30%) have considered "quiet quitting" over the past 12 months, and about 1 in 4 (24%) have considered "rage applying." Yet, 72% of workers said better financial wellness benefits would reduce the chance that they consider "quiet quitting" or "rage applying" again in the future.



"Retirement security is under threat in America," said Sarah Levy, CEO of Betterment. "Our workforce is eager to save for the future, but they're facing competing priorities  from student loans to household expenses  that stand in the way of long-term financial security. This is an opportunity for employers to step in and lend a hand, reexamining their benefits packages and gauging whether current offerings are truly addressing the challenges standing in the way of employee retirement readiness."

Read or download the full report here.

Methodology

An online survey was conducted with a panel of potential respondents from September 1, 2023 to September 5, 2023. The survey was completed by a total of 1,000 respondents who are 18 years and older, and full-time employees. The sample was provided by Sago, a research panel company. All respondents were invited to take the survey via an email invitation. Panel respondents were incentivized to participate via the panel's established points program, regardless of positive or negative feedback. Participants were not required to be Betterment clients to participate. Findings and analysis are presented for informational purposes only and are not intended to be investment advice, nor is this indicative of client sentiment or experience.

Any links provided to other websites are offered as a matter of convenience and are not intended to imply that Betterment or its authors endorse, sponsor, promote, and/or are affiliated with the owners of or participants in those sites, unless stated otherwise.

This content from Betterment LLC and Betterment for Business LLC (d/b/a Betterment at Work) is not intended as a recommendation, offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or investment strategy. The information contained is intended for educational purposes only and is not meant to constitute investment or tax advice. Advisory services provided by Betterment LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Brokerage services provided to clients of Betterment LLC by Betterment Securities, an SEC-registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA/SIPC. 401(k) plan administration services provided by Betterment for Business LLC. Investments in securities: Not FDIC Insured  No Bank Guarantee  May Lose Value. Investing in securities involves risks, and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities.  Betterment. All rights reserved.

About Betterment at Work

Betterment at Work is a leading provider of 401(k)s and modern financial benefits for today's diverse workforce, empowering small-to-medium-sized businesses to attract and retain talent. Built on the same technology that powers our investment platform, Betterment at Work helps employees meet goals starting with retirement and going beyond, with customizable portfolios, debt management tools, easy-to-understand advice, and more. Our automation makes it easy to offer a better 401(k), and Betterment takes on the fiduciary responsibility for employee accounts, supporting personalized choice.

For more information, visit www.betterment.com/work .

Contact

[email protected]

SOURCE Betterment at Work
BCBSTX Special Beginnings continues collaboration with nonprofits, providers to improve health outcomes for Texas moms, babies

RICHARDSON, Texas, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- With a shared goal to improve outcomes for mothers and babies statewide, Vitamin Angels will join Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas' evolved Special Beginnings maternal and infant health initiative in an effort to put at least 10,000 six-month supplies of prenatal vitamins and minerals in the hands of family-planning, pregnant and postpartum Texas women.

BCBSTX will provide Vitamin Angels with a $300,000 grant, and the two organizations will work in tandem  across BCBSTX initiative's initial target regions of Austin/Central Texas, Dallas-Ft. Worth, Houston and Rio Grande Valley  to enable eligible providers, clinics and community organizations to distribute no-cost vitamins and minerals to their clients and patients.

"Seventy-four percent of women seeking pregnancy health advice start with a health care provider - and nearly half seek that advice online. These avenues are the most important opportunities to stress the importance of prenatal care for newly pregnant women or those considering pregnancy," said Dr. Mark Chassay, BCBSTX VP and chief medical officer. "We want to reduce barriers for women to receive the necessary nutrients and begin moving the needle on maternal and infant outcomes."

Vitamin Angels is a global public health nonprofit working to improve maternal and child nutrition. The organization states that more than 1 million pregnant women in the United States don't have access to essential nutrients they need to help support a healthy pregnancy, which drives their mission to reduce barriers that impact health and economic wellbeing across communities and generations.

"We believe in a world where every mother has a healthy pregnancy and every child gets a chance at a healthy life. This year, we will reach more than 71 million pregnant women and children with essential vitamins and minerals by working in partnership with over 1,200 local organizations in every state in the United States and about 65 countries around the world," said Howard Schiffer, Vitamin Angels founder and president. "We are thrilled to collaborate with BCBSTX so, together, we can reach even more pregnant women in Texas with the prenatal vitamins and minerals they need."

A study commissioned by the March of Dimes reported women who take a multivitamin or prenatal vitamin with at least 400 micrograms of folic acid every day before pregnancy and during the early months of pregnancy can prevent serious birth defects of the brain and spine, known as neural tube defects.

NTDs, according to the MOD report, happen in the first month of pregnancy  often before a woman knows she is pregnant. Around seven in 10 of the 3,000 NTDs that occur each year in the United States could be prevented if women, during preconception and pregnancy, took daily multivitamins containing folic acid.

The Vitamin Angels grant builds on BCBSTX's long-standing maternal and infant care programs as well as relationships with trusted local community organizations, health care providers and thought leaders to leverage their knowledge, experience and talents to increase access to care, reduce care gaps and educate and engage Texans at a local level.

BCBSTX's statewide evolved Special Beginnings initiative aims to improve health outcomes for Texas moms and babies following data that showed nine out of 10 maternal deaths in Texas were preventable. Other recently announced collaborations include:

BCBSTX's Special Beginnings expansion aligns with recommendations in the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association's 2021 and 2022 maternal health equity reports, and focuses on:

Implementing quality-based maternal health programs that demonstrate a reduction in preterm/low birth weight babies and obstetric and postpartum emergencies;

Expanding access to comprehensive health services, including behavioral health care, from preconception through postpartum periods; and

Increasing public awareness and community engagement to reduce maternal morbidities, mortalities and health disparities, including the expansion of the maternal health workforce.

About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX)  the only statewide, customer-owned health insurer in Texas  is the largest provider of health benefits in the state, working with more than 140,000 physicians and health care practitioners, and 520 hospitals to serve more than 7 million members in all 254 counties. BCBSTX is a Division of Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC) (which operates Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans in Texas, Illinois, Montana, Oklahoma and New Mexico). Health Care Service Corporation is a Mutual Legal Reserve Company and an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

BCBSTX.com | Twitter.com/BCBSTX | Facebook.com/BlueCrossBlueShieldOfTexas | YouTube.com/BCBSTX | BCBSTX Community Highlights

About Vitamin Angels

Founded in 1994, Vitamin Angels is a public health nonprofit working to improve nutrition and health outcomes in low-resource settings worldwide. We strengthen, extend, and amplify the impact of our partner organizations working to reach the most nutritionally vulnerable groups  pregnant women, infants, and young children  who are underserved by existing systems. We do this by delivering evidence-based interventions and offering technical assistance, including ongoing monitoring and evaluation, to ensure program quality, scale, and impact. Vitamin Angels works with over 1,200 local organizations, including governments, to reach more than 71 million women and children in about 65 countries annually. Both Charity Navigator and Candid give Vitamin Angels their highest marks for financial transparency. To learn more, visit: www.vitaminangels.org.

SOURCE Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
First Lady Jill Biden Joins Launch and Delivers Remarks

WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Blue Star Families , the largest national non-profit dedicated to supporting military families and strengthening communities, and Hiring Our Heroes (HOH), the nation's leading non-profit helping veterans, military spouses, and transitioning service members find meaningful careers, convened to announce the launch of the 4+1 Commitment: The Formula for Military Spouse Success.

The two organizations are presenting the 4+1 Commitment , a first-of-its-kind, nationwide effort to tackle the 21% unemployment rate among military spouses. Dr. Jill Biden was in attendance and delivered remarks that spoke to the importance of supporting military families.

Blue Star Families and Hiring Our Heroes announced the 4+1 Commitment: The Formula for Military Spouse Success. Post this

"We don't just need spouses to have jobs. We need them to be able to keep those jobs, and turn them into careers. Hiring our Heroes and Blue Star Families are asking for 1,000 companies to commit to retaining more spouses. It's ambitious, but together we can achieve it. And everyone in this room has a role in making this vision a reality," said First Lady Jill Biden at the event.

Military spouse unemployment and underemployment is creating critical challenges for the military. Military spouses have long faced unemployment rates much higher than their civilian counterparts due to the demands of the military lifestylea fact evidenced by the 21% unemployment rate faced by military spouses. Military families are being forced to live on a single income when most Americans are benefitting from two incomes to meet their familial needs. This lack of opportunity is putting military families in a tough position between continued service or looking for opportunities outside of service.

"The 4+1 Commitment is the missing piece in the puzzle of solving the military spouse unemployment crisis," said Kathy Roth-Douquet, co-founder and CEO of Blue Star Families. "We're proud to present this initiative with Hiring Our Heroes and in partnership with the Department of Defense's Military Spouse Employment Partnership, and are excited to expand our work bringing together the public, private, and non-government sectors together to create meaningful solutions."

The 4+1 Commitment asks employers in all sectors to adopt at least one military-spouse-friendly employment policy, plus consider joining an existing government spouse employment program.

Facilitate job transferability Offer remote or telework Offer flexible work hours Provide paid Permanent Change of Station (PCS) leave

+1 : Consider joining an existing government spouse employment program

"America is at its best when the private and public sectors work together to meet the needs of our military community," said Eric Eversole, President of Hiring Our Heroes. "The 4+1 commitment does exactly that! It encourages private and public sector partners to adopt policies to empower military spouses as they search for meaningful career opportunities."

The 4+1 Commitment: The Formula for Military Spouse Success is a scalable, actionable, and effective way for companies to commit to addressing and improving military spouse employment outcomes by committing to make at least one of four policy changes. Launched in partnership with the Department of Defense's Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP), original signatories include Starbucks, T-Mobile, PenFed Credit Union, Telemynd, USAA, Nextdoor, Navy Federal Credit Union, Comcast NBCUniversal, First Command Financial Services, and Booz Allen Hamilton. The goal is to have 1,000 signatories by the end of 2024. The commitment is a part of the Blue Star Families' Do Your Part initiative, made possible by craig newmark philanthropies.

"Every day, Starbucks works to contribute positively to every community we serve and we know Veterans and military spouses make our company and our communities stronger. Starbucks is proud to build on its decade-long commitment to serving the military community by expanding our longtime partnership with Blue Star Families. As a founding partner of the Do Your Part coalition, Starbucks will continue to prioritize comprehensive, industry-leading benefits to better support Veterans, military spouses and their families," said AJ Jones, II, Starbucks evp & chief communications officer.

To learn more about the 4+1 Commitment, please visit https://bluestarfam.org/4plus1/ .

About Blue Star Families

Blue Star Families is the nation's largest grass-roots military family support organization, with a mission to support military families to improve military readiness. Its distinctive approach builds stronger communities around military families through knowledge and programs that address the unique needs of those who serve. Blue Star Families' nationally recognized surveys and analysis give military families an important voice that informs policymakers and its military family programs. It uses the power of its collective resources and cross-sector collaborations to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of thousands of members of military families to strengthen the troops, their families, and our nation as a whole. For more information please visit bluestarfam.org.

About Hiring Our Heroes

Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) is a 501(c)(3) organization under the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The non-profit launched in March 2011 as a nationwide initiative to help veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses find meaningful employment. Working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's vast network of state and local chambers and other strategic partners from the public, private and nonprofit sectors, Hiring Our Heroes has helped hundreds of thousands of veterans and military spouses find meaningful employment through its comprehensive training and hiring events, fellowship programs, and online tools. HOH programs and services are available in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, and on military installations around the world. For more information on programming and initiatives: HiringOurHeroes.org; @HiringOurHeroes on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

SOURCE Blue Star Families
VANCOUVER, BC and VAN NUYS, Calif., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Building on a mutual strategy of delivering the best portfolio of cannabis products to consumers, BZAM Ltd. (the "Company" or "BZAM") (CSE: BZAM) (US-OTC: BZAMF) has entered into a definitive share exchange agreement dated December 5, 2023, (the "Agreement") to acquire Final Bell Canada Inc. ("FBC") from Final Bell Holdings International Ltd. ("FBHI"), the companies announced today (the "Transaction").

Under the terms of the Agreement, FBHI, the sole shareholder of FBC, will receive 90,000,000 common shares of BZAM at a deemed price of $0.15 per share, representing approximately one-third of the issued and outstanding shares of BZAM (the "BZAM Shares") following the closing of the Transaction (the "Closing"), which is anticipated to occur on or about December 18, 2023, subject to customary closing conditions. BZAM will also enter into a supply agreement under which FBHI's wholly owned subsidiary, 14th Round Inc., will continue to provide industry leading child-resistant packaging, high-tech vaporization hardware, and pre-roll cones to BZAM.

"This Transaction combines BZAM's cultivation, production, and sales infrastructure with the exceptional portfolio of international brands that Final Bell has brought to market in Canada. FBHI, together with Greg Boone and his team at FBC, have done an incredible job introducing the biggest names in cannabis to Canadian consumers and creating significant value in the process. We are pleased to bring this team and these brands to BZAM," said Matt Milich, Chief Executive Officer of BZAM. "This combination also brings in FBHI as an invaluable strategic shareholder to the Company, which creates additional opportunities for long term growth and value creation."(2)

"This combination places the combined entity as the 5th largest Canadian L.P. on a proforma basis"(1)(2) said Robert Meyer, CEO of FBHI. "BZAM's demonstrated prowess in the Canadian marketplace, coupled with our brand portfolio and packaging and hardware innovation are a recipe for continued growth with many competitive advantages."(2)

"We are proud of the work we have done to bring many of the leading cannabis brands from California to Canada and I am excited to continue the work of developing those brands under the BZAM umbrella with the incredible resources BZAM brings to the table," said Greg Boone, CEO of FBC.

As part of the Transaction, Greg Boone will join BZAM as President and Jennifer Maccarone will join as VP of Operations. FBC's Chief Legal Officer Christy Zhou will assume the same role at BZAM, and Lana MacKenzie will also take on a senior role within BZAM. Matt Milich will remain as CEO of BZAM. In addition, FBHI will be entitled to appoint a new member to BZAM's board of directors.

Further to the Transaction, the combined Company will be the Canadian home of some of the most recognizable international brands in the cannabis industry  including Cookies, Sherbinskis, and Wyld.

Transaction Details

In consideration for all the issued and outstanding common shares of FBC, upon Closing, BZAM will issue 90,000,000 BZAM Shares to FBHI, representing an ownership stake of approximately 33% of the combined Company following Closing. This Transaction does not constitute a fundamental or significant acquisition under CSE Policy.

In accordance with the terms of the Agreement, FBHI will enter into a contractual lock-up agreement, whereby the BZAM Shares received at Closing shall be subject to a lock-up, with 1/3 of being released on the 4-month, 8-month, and 12-month anniversaries of the date such shares are issued. As part of the Transaction, FBC will retain a promissory note issued to FBHI in the amount of $4 million, bearing zero percent interest, maturing March 31, 2025, and subordinate to BZAM's current credit facility.

The Transaction is expected to achieve significant cost synergies through the reduction of selling, general and administrative expense, as well as supply chain and distribution integration and optimization.(2)

Clarus Securities Inc. acted as the exclusive financial advisor to BZAM, with compensation of 3% of the purchase price, equating to 2,700,000 common shares of BZAM, to be issued upon successful completion of the Transaction.

About BZAM Ltd.

BZAM Ltd. (CSE: BZAM) (USOTC: BZAMF) is a leading Canadian cannabis producer. The BZAM family includes core brands BZAM, TGOD, ness, Highly Dutch Organic, TABLE TOP, and partner brands Dunn Cannabis, FRESH and Wyld. BZAM operates facilities in BC, Ontario and Quebec, as well as a retail store in Regina, Saskatchewan.

BZAM's Common Shares and certain warrants issued under the indentures dated June 12, 2020, October 23, 2020 and December 10, 2020 currently trade on the CSE under the symbol "BZAM", "BZAM.WR", "BZAM.WA", and "BZAM.WB" respectively. BZAM's Shares trade in the U.S. on the OTCQX under the symbol "BZAMF". For more information on BZAM Ltd., please visit www.bzam.com.

About Final Bell International Ltd.

Final Bell enables innovation at scale for the cannabis industry. Founded by experienced cannabis industry operators, Final Bell offers an owned, end-to-end supply chain solution that allows leading cannabis brands to quickly move products from concept to shelf, across multiple geographies, while maintaining the quality and experience their customers demand. Its hardware and packaging division, 14TH Round Inc., delivers the most advanced vaporization devices and child-resistant packaging solutions to market.

Notes: 1. Based on estimated retail sales from HyFire Analytics for calendar Q3 2023. 2. This is forward-looking information and based on a number of assumptions. See "Cautionary Statements". This target, and the related assumptions, involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. While BZAM and FBC believe there is a reasonable basis for this target, such target may not be met. Actual results may vary and differ materially from the targets.

Cautionary Statements

This news release includes statements containing certain "forwardlooking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law ("forwardlooking statements"). Forward looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to, statements about the timing and achievement of closing of the Transaction, statements about the Company becoming the fifth largest Canadian licensed producer, statements about future revenue, statements about cost synergies and overhead reductions, statements about future production and manufacturing, statements about achievement of value for shareholders, statements about reduction in cost of goods sold and general and administrative expenses, statements about the offering of any particular products by the Company in any jurisdiction, statements regarding the future performance or future growth of the Company, statements about future development and delivery of products of the Company, and statements about the level of demand for Company's products. Forwardlooking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "continue", "expect", "project", "intend", "should", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. Various assumptions were used in drawing the conclusions or making the projections contained in the forwardlooking statements throughout this news release. Forwardlooking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties (including market conditions) and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forwardlooking statements, including those risk factors described in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form filed with Canadian securities regulators and available on the Company's issuer profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information or forward-looking statements in this news release 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 time frames or at all. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. The Company is under no obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forwardlooking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.

Neither the CSE nor the CSE's Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of CSE) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

55209231.3

SOURCE BZAM LTD.
CHICAGO, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CannMenus , a Chicago-based cannabis retail analytics firm, and Nugget, a Canadian cannabis insights leader, have joined forces to further their goal of reshaping the way businesses and consumers interact with cannabis data. The merger consolidates two players within the canna-tech space to create an unparalleled source of retail insights covering over 90% of all licensed dispensaries across the U.S. and Canada.

Co-founder & CEO of CannMenus Vib Gupta (left), Darcy McQuaid, former CEO of Nugget, and the newly appointed CRO of CannMenus

"In the highly competitive arena of legal cannabis, the ability to make data-informed decisions remains critical to success. Our core vision has always been to enable businesses and consumers alike to harness the power of real-time data. This merger brings us one step closer to achieving that goal on a widespread scale," states Vib Gupta, CannMenus' Co-Founder and CEO.

It's this vision that spurred the creation of the CannMenus consumer product search interface as well as their robust BI SaaS platform that affords industry operators up-to-the-minute market analytics  a far cry from next-day or next month insights provided by legacy data firms within the industry.

Darcy McQuaid, former CEO of Nugget and the newly appointed CRO of CannMenus, expressed, "Through this merger, we're harnessing the best from both management teams, unlocking sustained cost efficiencies, and driving long-term growth. I want to extend my appreciation to our dedicated employees, steadfast investors, and our valued clients  whose trust and support have paved the way for this significant milestone."

CannMenus is also pleased to welcome David Schachter as the new Chief Strategy Officer of the company. David brings extensive startup and cannabis industry expertise, having previously served as the Head of Sales and Business Development for Sprout CRM (Acquired by Weedmaps).

About CannMenus

CannMenus, founded by seasoned software engineers Vibhav Gupta, Jonathon Carlyon, and David Adams, offers a powerful suite of tools that allows industry players to monitor retail sales, bolster inventory management, prospect for new accounts, and explore market-level trends to inform operational strategies. With up-to-the-minute insights, it's the only same-day business intelligence platform with widespread coverage across every legal U.S. and Canadian territory currently available within the cannabis space.

CannMenus.com also offers a comprehensive universal dispensary menu search engine for cannabis products, offering consumers a seamless way to explore and compare offerings from various e-commerce providers. Dubbed "Kayak.com for cannabis," CannMenus simplifies the search process, catering to those looking to make informed purchasing decisions quickly and effortlessly.

About Nugget

Nugget Data is a cannabis technology platform founded by industry veterans Darcy McQuaid, Mackenzie Ferguson, Jake Crow, and Dylan Carter. The platform offers retailers and brands powerful tools to stay ahead of the competition. Nugget empowers clients to make informed decisions based on market trends with its user-friendly interface and comprehensive insights.

For further information, please reach out to:

David Schachter

Chief Strategy Officer

[email protected]

SOURCE CannMenus
Building a community of shared future necessitates collaborative efforts of all countries, said Josette Altmann-Borbon, Secretary General of the Latin American Faculty of Social Sciences (FLACSO), a distinguished historian, during a recent dialogue with Guangming International Forum. She noted that the concept highlights the interconnectedness among nations and the importance of cooperation, which can enhance international exchanges and collaboration, and foster mutual development among nations.

Borbon said that the world today is grappling with unprecedented challenges, ranging from the COVID-19 pandemic to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the global economic downturn. The current scenario is marked by complexity and volatility, with the rise of separatism and extremism posing a threat to global cooperation and stability. However, amidst these challenges, there are instances of states and individuals collaboratively addressing global, national, and regional issues, which demonstrates human resilience in the face of adversity. Despite temporary hardships, the overarching trajectory of human history has been one of progress. Borbon asserts that through dialogue and cooperation, people can find new solutions to advance in a positive and sustainable direction.

In a world of uncertainty, President Xis emphasis on building a community with a shared future for mankind, building a global community of health for all and building a community of life for man and nature is commendable, Borbon said. She believes that all countries should address global challenges with a spirit of shared responsibility and shared benefits, a spirit crucial for constructing a more equitable and sustainable world. Facing major challenges like climate change, pandemics, and organized crime in the twenty-first century, no country can stand alone. Building a community of shared future necessitates the full cooperation of all countries, this underscores the interconnectedness and importance of coordination and cooperation in strengthening international exchanges and promoting the common development of all nations.

Speaking of China-Latin America relations, Borbon highlighted the continuous development and fruitful cooperation in various fields in recent years, characterized by its comprehensive, wide-ranging, and multi-level nature, encompassing trade, investment, science, technology, and cultural exchanges, yielding significant results. The ongoing joint efforts in addressing global challenges like climate change and sustainable development underscore the importance of mutual cooperation. She noted that the Belt and Road Initiative has opened up new avenues for win-win cooperation, providing opportunities for strengthened infrastructure and connectivity. This initiative is crucial for building a community of shared future between China and Latin America, fostering mutual understanding and achieving mutual benefits and win-win results. The Belt and Road Initiative not only benefits economic and trade but also enhances cultural exchanges, playing a vital role in promoting people-to-people and academic interactions, deepening friendship, and laying a solid foundation for the future of China-Latin America relations.

Borbon said she has had the honor of visiting China, and she admires Chinas significant achievements in various fields such as education, science, technology, and innovation. Looking forward, she expressed optimism about the future of China-Latin America relations, too. Borbon highlighted Chinas role as a crucial trading partner and investor in Latin America, impacting the regions economic development significantly. Borbon stressed that increased cooperation and dialogue between the two will not only strengthen economic ties but also foster cultural, academic, and people-to-people exchanges, and deepen the friendship eventually. In the face of global challenges like climate change and economic inequality, and at a time when the world continues to undergo profound and complex changes, she urged both sides to collaborate, plan the future of their relations, address these issues together, and foster a more inclusive, open, diversified, and prosperous future.

Editor: GSY
JERSEY CITY, N.J., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- InsightAce Analytic Pvt. Ltd. announces the release of a market assessment report on the "Global Carbon Neutral Data Center Market- (By Product (industry (IT and Telecom, Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI), Government or Public Sector, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail), data center type (hyper-scale data centers, enterprise data centers, colocation data centers), and carbon neural solution (Hardware, Software and platforms and Support Services))), Trends, Industry Competition Analysis, Revenue and Forecast To 2031."

According to the latest research by InsightAce Analytic, the Global Carbon Neutral Data Center Market is valued at US$ 6.22 Bn in 2022, and it is expected to reach US$ 35.89 Bn by 2031, with a CAGR of 21.67% during a forecast period of 2023-2031.

Carbon Neutral Data Center Market Report Scope

Report Attribute Specifications Market Size Value In 2022 USD 6.22 Bn Revenue Forecast In 2031 USD 35.89 Bn Growth Rate CAGR CAGR of 21.67 % from 2023 to 2031 Quantitative Units Representation of revenue in US$ Million and CAGR from 2023 to 2031 Historic Year 2019 to 2022 Forecast Year 2023-2031 Report Coverage The forecast of revenue, the position of the company, the competitive market structure, growth prospects, and trends Segments Covered By Industry, Data Center Type, And Carbon Neural Solution Regional Scope North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Latin America; Middle East & Africa Country Scope U.S.; Canada; U.K.; Germany; China; India; Japan; Brazil; Mexico ;The UK; France; Italy; Spain; China; Japan; India; South Korea; South East Asia; South Korea; South East Asia Competitive Landscape 3M, ABB Group, Alibaba Group, Alphabet Inc., Amazon.com, Inc., Cisco Systems, Inc., Dell Inc., Digital Realty Trust, Eaton Corporation plc, Equinix, Inc., FUJITSU, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP, IBM Corporation, Microsoft, ANS Group Limited, NEXTDC LTD., CYRUSONE, DEAC, and Intel Corporation.

Request for Sample Pages: https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/request-sample/1821

The global carbon-neutral data centre market growth is to be driven by increasing government regulation developments and CSR activities. The carbon-neutral data centre market is still in a growing phase, and the growth is attributed to the various environmental-friendly policies and government regulations. Advanced research and development activities are underway to develop carbon-neutral data centre technologies and products, which are expected to increase due to the increased demand for data storage and digital transformation.

With an increased worldwide focus on achieving climate-neutral goals and managing demand for data storage, the shift from non-renewable energy sources to renewable energy sources in the data centre industry brings significant opportunities. The shift is more prominent in regions such as Europe and North America. This is because countries in these regions, with naturally colder climates almost throughout the year, have the highest potential in the global market.

List of Prominent Players in the Carbon Neutral Data Center Market:

3M

ABB Group

Alibaba Group

Alphabet Inc.

Amazon.com, Inc.

Cisco System, Inc.

Dell Inc.

Digital Realty Trust

Eaton Corporation plc

Equinix, Inc.

FUJITSU

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP

IBM Corporation

Intel Corporation

Microsoft

ANS Group Limited

NEXTDC LTD.

CYRUS ONE

DEAC

Market Dynamics:

Drivers-

Growing demand for government regulations on carbon emissions and rising emphasis on renewable energy, etc., is a vital factor anticipated to propel the growth of the target market. Increasing demand for growing energy-efficient alternatives for data center cooling and rising carbon neutrality under sustainable development efforts and CSR activities is further expected to support the market growth. Additionally, the rising demand for electricity tariffs globally and other is a factor expected to augment the growth of the carbon-neutral data centre market.

Challenges:

The prime challenge is the requirement for more awareness and commercialization regarding the high dependence on non-renewable energy for running data centre operations. However, the higher cost of implementation and compatibility issues. Even though other sectors have been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, data centre operators have seen demand for data storage double and redouble, driven by increasing digitalization and the pandemic. A recent update shows that are reshaping data centres more extensively and faster than ever.

Regional Trends:

Europe's carbon-neutral data center market is expected to generate the highest revenue. It is projected to grow at a high CAGR soon, attributed to the R&D advancements and supporting government regulations in the region. Europe is an attractive region for the carbon-neutral data centre market because of the availability of a favourable climate for the use of renewable sources of energy. This is due to the adoption of new strategies by prominent players in the carbon-neutral data center market. Moreover, the presence of key market players and growing collaboration among major players for market penetration in the region provides the opportunity to grow the carbon-neutral data centre market.

Curious about this latest version of the report? @

https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/enquiry-before-buying/1821

Recent Developments:

In March 2022 , Normative, a Swedish start-up sponsored by Google, released a free version of its carbon emission tracker as businesses worldwide struggled to manage their carbon impacts.

Normative, a Swedish start-up sponsored by Google, released a free version of its carbon emission tracker as businesses worldwide struggled to manage their carbon impacts. In March 2022 , Amazon Web Services (AWS) allowed customers to access a tool that measures the carbon footprint of cloud usage and compares it to the expected footprint of a data centre located on-site.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) allowed customers to access a tool that measures the carbon footprint of cloud usage and compares it to the expected footprint of a data centre located on-site. In May 2022 , Alibaba Cloud, the foundation of Alibaba Group's digital technology and innovation efforts, announced the opening its third sustainable data centre in Germany to meet the growing demand for digital transformation from clients across Europe .

Segmentation of Carbon Neutral Data Center Market-

By Industry -

IT and Telecom

Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI)

Government or Public Sector

Healthcare

Manufacturing

Retail

Others

By Data Center Type -

Hyperscale Data Centers

Enterprise Data Centers

Colocation Data Centers

Others

By Carbon Neutral Solution -

Hardware Servers Cooling and Power Storage Networking

Software and Platforms

Support Services

By Region-

North America-

The US

Canada

Mexico

Europe-

Germany

The UK

France

Italy

Spain

Rest of Europe

Asia-Pacific-

China

Japan

India

South Korea

Southeast Asia

Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America-

Brazil

Argentina

Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa-

GCC Countries

South Africa

Rest of the Middle East and Africa

For More Customization @

https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/customisation/1821

Why should buy this report:

To receive a comprehensive analysis of the prospects for the global Carbon Neutral Data Center market

To receive an industry overview and future trends in the global Carbon Neutral Data Center market

To analyze the Carbon Neutral Data Center market drivers and challenges

To get information on the Carbon Neutral Data Center market size value (US$ Mn) forecast till 2031

Major Investments, Mergers & Acquisitions in the global Carbon Neutral Data Center market industry

Other Related Reports Published by InsightAce Analytic:

Data Center Liquid Cooling Market

Carbon Neutrality Market

Carbon Footprint Management Market

About Us:

InsightAce Analytic is a market research and consulting firm that enables clients to make strategic decisions. Our qualitative and quantitative market intelligence solutions inform the need for market and competitive intelligence to expand businesses. We help clients gain a competitive advantage by identifying untapped markets, exploring new and competing technologies, segmenting potential markets, and repositioning products. Our expertise is in providing syndicated and custom market intelligence reports with an in-depth analysis of key market insights in a timely and cost-effective manner.

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SOURCE InsightAce Analytic Pvt. Ltd
ASECS Scholars Enhance Research and Teaching of Eighteenth-Century Studies Using Gale's Eighteenth-Century Collections Online (ECCO) and Gale Digital Scholar Lab

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. and FISHKILL, N.Y., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As the Eighteenth Century Collections Online (ECCO) celebrates 20 years of powering higher ed research, Gale, part of Cengage Group, and the American Society of Eighteenth Century Studies (ASECS) are releasing the impact report findings of how the five scholars of the Gale-ASECS Non-Residential Fellowship program used ECCO and Gale Digital Scholar Lab (the Lab) to advance their research.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of ECCO, the world's largest historical archive of eighteenth century study. Post this Eighteenth Century Collections Online: Celebrating 20 Years Gale-ASECS Fellows

Last year, each fellow received $2,500 from Gale and were given access to the Lab, a cloud-based digital humanities (DH) tool and ECCO for a period of six months. At the end of their access period, each scholar submitted a report on how they used the resources to advance their work.

The goal of the fellowships is to help scholars expand the field of eighteenth-century studies for research or teaching, using DH methods to conduct their research.

The impact reports examine the DH journeys of the fellows' research that sheds new light on a wide range of issues, from fainting as a defense mechanism, to the stigmatization of stuttering, to legal issues about dueling and more.

Here are some of the ingenious approaches and breakthrough discoveries the fellows uncovered in their research using DH tools:

Dr. Heather Heckman-McKenna , instructor of English, associate editor, The Eighteenth Century: Theory and Interpretation, University of Missouri

Project: Eighteenth-Century Sensibility and the Subversive Female Body

Heckman-McKenna's research argues that bodily actions of sensibility (feminized actions such as sighing, trembling, and fainting) were used by some women writers of the eighteenth century to create a disruptive effect. Heckman-McKenna was able to take advantage of text- and data-mining tools in the Lab to get a "far more complete picture of how women authors wrote about the sentimental body," she said. "Having so many data points per text available for download allows me a wide range of productive inquiries and helps me look both broadly and at the minutiae of how bodily sensibility was written about." This allows Heckman-McKenna a new way to chart women's agency over time and map new aspects of the pre-history of modern feminism.

Dr. Adam Kozaczka , assistant professor of English, Texas A&M International University

Project: The History of Dueling in Eighteenth-Century Britain

Dr. Kozaczka examined a subset of trials and legal issues involving dueling, which was relatively common during the eighteenth-century but would become extinct in Britain relatively early in the nineteenth century. Through a digital humanities intervention, Dr. Kozaczka sought to resolve the eighteenth-century legal disputes through the weight of data. "The much wider reach of my content set [from ECCO and the Lab] meant that I could immediately see the disparity between the two sides that has remained unacknowledged in scholarship until today," he said, noting that the work "will continue to influence my pedagogy and scholarship for some time to comeMany of the results I have gleaned during the project will make their way into a chapter in a law and literature monograph that I am currently working on."

Jared Richman , associate professor of English, Colorado College

Project: Voicing Disability in Eighteenth-Century Print Culture

Richman's research sought to understand how the eighteenth century represented and politicized speech and communication disorders. Richman called the Lab "a boon to my work," explaining that, "What has been so fascinating for me is tracking the appearance and use of particular terms related to my research project over the [eighteenth] centuryI'm still working through ways to interpret this print phenomenon, but it seems likely that increased cultural attention to vocal correctness coincides with concerns over incorrect or 'defective' speech, i.e., disability in the second half of the century."

Daniel Watkins , assistant professor of history, Baylor University

Project: Tracking the Lettres Edifiantes et Curieuses in Eighteenth-Century Britain

Watkins traced the transmission of a particularly influential set of published missionary letters to provide a better understanding of how missionary accounts influenced European descriptions of societies and cultures in Africa, Asia, the Americas, and beyond. "Asking a question as big as 'How did missionary letters influence European conceptions of the rest of the world?' demands a methodology that is expansive," Watkins said. "This kind of question is perfectly suited for research using digital tools." However, he added, "The tools themselves don't have to provide final conclusions  they can help historians process information. For example, the Ngram analysis tool helped me to determine additional stop words to add to cleaning protocols so that the topic modeling and document clustering analysis produced better resultsI hadn't considered this method before using digital humanities tools."

Sarah Weston , assistant professor of English, Washington University in St. Louis

Project: The Shape of Numbers, 1701-1800

Weston examined eighteenth-century poetry and art through the lens of mathematics. The dissertation also offers a new way to speak about the movement from the Enlightenment to Romanticism and the change of sensibilities that took place across the end of the eighteenth century. "Beyond merely helping me create a better, larger data set, the Lab helped me organize, sift through, and make sense of the material I was working with," said Weston. "It was really staggering how quickly everything could be done." Her work with ECCO helped "ratify my initial assessment/hypothesisthat the imagery of piles and heaps and tortured masses, the anxious feeling about multiplicity and numerousness when discussing the slave trade, was a sentiment unique to the late eighteenth century, emerging during the period of abolition, as a new attitude arose toward quantity and numbers: a new reckoning with the sheer magnitude of people affected by the slave trade."

This year marks the 20th anniversary of ECCO, the world's largest and most comprehensive online historical archive of its kind that supports advanced study of the eighteenth century. It contains every significant English-language and foreign-language title printed in the United Kingdom between the years 1701 and 1800. Watkins called ECCO "an invaluable resource because of its sheer breadth. There is perhaps no better digital resource with which to assess the whole of British print culture in the eighteenth century."

For more information on Gale-ASECS Non-Residential Fellowships, visit its webpage.

To learn more about ECCO, visit its webpage.

About Cengage Group and Gale

Cengage Group, an education technology company serving millions of learners in 165 countries, advances the way students learn through quality, digital experiences. The company currently serves the K-12, higher education, professional, library, English language teaching and workforce training markets worldwide. Gale, part of Cengage Group, provides libraries with original and curated content, as well as the modern research tools and technology that are crucial in connecting libraries to learning, and learners to libraries. For more than 65 years, Gale has partnered with libraries around the world to empower the discovery of knowledge and insights  where, when, and how people need it. Gale has 500 employees globally with its main operations in Farmington Hills, Michigan. For more information, please visit www.gale.com.

Follow Gale on:

Media Contact:

Kayla Siefker, Gale, part of Cengage Group

248-378-3376

[email protected]

SOURCE Gale, part of Cengage Group
--China National Tourist Office in Los Angeles Promotes "Nihao China" at a Major U.S. Travel Industry Conference

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The China National Tourist Office in Los Angeles (CNTO) caps its multicity campaign to promote the organization's recent global "Nihao China" rebranding by hosting an all-member luncheon at the 2023 United States Tour Operators Association Annual Conference & Marketplace (USTOA) on Tuesday, Dec. 5, at the JW Marriott Live in downtown Los Angeles. The yearly five-day conference is the only travel industry event in the United States that brings together top North American travel companies, tourism suppliers and destinations from around the world in an exclusive setting.

Nihao China Consul General Shaochun Guo of the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Los Angeles (center) and Dawei Wu, Director, China National Tourist Office in Los Angeles (far right) are joined by Bob Drumm, Chairman & CEO, Alexander & Roberts (far left); Terry Dale, President & CEO, USTOA (left) and Dana Santucci, USTOA Chairman, Executive Vice President, EF Educational Tours (right) at the Dec 5th CNTO-hosted luncheon of the 2023 USTOA Annual Conference & Marketplace.

"Our 'Nihao China' campaign is a message of welcome to all travelers. All pandemic travel restrictions have been lifted and U.S. and Chinese carriers have gradually resumed their flights and frequencies between cities in the United States and China. Our partnership with USTOA and its members is especially important in making China a top-of-mind destination in 2024 and beyond." Dawei Wu, CNTO Los Angeles director, stated.

Consul General Guo Shaochun of the Chinese Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Los Angeles unveiled the 'Nihao China' logo featuring a stylized image of China's iconic

giant panda to more than 600 registered guests at the sold-out event. "Nihao" is Chinese for welcome. At the luncheon, CNTO showed a short video highlighting China's stunning scenery and distributed a glossy flyer listing the top reasons China is a must-visit for all travelers.

A destination like no other, China is a tapestry of time-honored traditions throbbing in perfect harmony with cutting-edge technology. It's a place where soaring skyscrapers blend seamlessly with centuries old palaces. Where deities and dragons roam and lions dance to chase away bad spirits. Where cormorants fish and sand dunes sing.

As the world's oldest continuous civilization, China's splendid history and culture spans more than 5,000 years. It has birthed ancient inventions and engineering feats that have benefited humankind for generations. The compass, papermaking, printing, gunpowder, acupuncture, silk, porcelain, mechanical clock, and many other life-transforming innovations originated in China. Several of these inventions are considered as among a myriad of China's invaluable contributions to world civilization. Even ice cream, everybody's summer favorite, was invented in China.

In the world of gastronomic glitterati, China is a top favorite for the effortless elegance of its palate-pleasing flavors. Chinese cuisine seduces everyone's taste buds with the perfect balance of the spicy notes of Sichuan peppercorn, sweet plums, and a symphony of salty, sour, and bitter tastes. Never to miss dishes include Beijing's eponymous melt-in-your mouth Peking Duck, Shanghai's soup dumpling and seasonal hairy crab, Chongqing's hotpot, and Guangzhou's bite-sized dim sum, famously endeared for their farm to table freshness and subtle flavor.

The reasons to visit China are as vast as the country itself. Whether one is a foodie or techie, a history buff or a hopeless romantic, this land of legend and lore has it all in spades.

For more information, please contact the China National Tourist Office in Los Angeles at (818) 545-7507 or via email to [email protected].

Contact: Dawei Wu

[email protected]

818-545-7507

SOURCE China National Tourist Office, Los Angeles
DALLAS, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Former 'The Wonder Years' TV icon and bestselling author Danica McKellar joined Bill Abbott, President & CEO, Great American Media as the pair feted media and advertisers on an elegant night out near company headquarters in Dallas to celebrate the success of Great American Family being the fastest-growing cable TV network in all of 2023. McKellar is celebrating the success of her original movies for Great American Family, including the recent World Premiere of "A Royal Date for Christmas." Abbott's holiday presents include his new cable network becoming a leading contender in the Christmas genre with 21 original holiday films (second only to Hallmark) and a growing library of quality original family-friendly content for linear on Great American Family and streaming at Great American Pure Flix.

ACTRESS DANICA MCKELLAR AND GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY CHIEF BILL ABBOTT CELEBRATE HOLIDAY MILESTONES Post this ACTRESS DANICA MCKELLAR AND GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY CHIEF BILL ABBOTT CELEBRATE HOLIDAY MILESTONES

About the year's whirlwind success, Danica McKellar said, "Starting off on the Wonder years, I have had the pleasure of doing projects that are truly good natured and wholesome, and I feel like I got to continue that in large part had to do with this guy, Bill Abbott, first on the Hallmark Channel, and now of course I followed him to Great American Family Channel. These movies make you feel good. They're about a simpler time almost. It shows you the best in human nature, these movies. And what makes them so good and so needed is that they don't have any real bad guys. No one's taking advantage of each other. It's people who are in earnest trying to make their way through life. And people say, oh, these movies are such a great escape. Yes, they are an escape, but I believe they're more than that because they model aspirational behavior and you feel so good while you're watching them and that feeling lasts. I think that we're actually making a good impact on the world."

Viewers wishing for a stocking-filled with sweet movie gifts can TEXT CHRISTMAS to 877-999-1225 to locate their local channel.

Media Contacts:

Pam Slay, 818.415.3784

and

[email protected]

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY

Great American Family is America's premiere destination for quality family-friendly programming, including original holiday movies, rom-coms and fan-favorite series that celebrate faith, family, and country. Great American Family is home to year-round seasonal celebrations including Great American Christmas, the network's signature franchise featuring holiday themed movies and specials. Founded in 2021, Great American Family is part of the Great American Media portfolio of brands. Follow Great American Family on Twitter: @GAfamilyTV Facebook: @GAfamilytv Instagram: @gactv

SOURCE Great American Family
PITTSBURGH, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Clean Express Auto Wash today announced the opening of its newest location at 201 Mt. Nebo Rd. in Pittsburgh. With the addition of Mt. Nebo, Clean Express now operates seven locations throughout Pittsburgh and surrounding areas including Allison Park, East McKeesport, New Kensington, Pleasant Hills, Washington and West Mifflin. Three additional Pittsburgh area locations including Southside, Brentwood/Whitehall and Irwin are scheduled to open by Spring, 2024.

"Throughout the past two years we have remained committed to responsible expansion and are grateful that the Pittsburgh community continues to support our efforts to not only provide the highest quality wash experience, but truly make a difference in our communities through our philanthropic CleanCares initiatives," said John Roush, Clean Express Auto Wash Founder and Express Wash Concepts Chief Executive Officer.

From December 15-24, 2023, the Mt. Nebo Clean Express will celebrate by offering all customers a free Cleanest-Ultra wash ($24 value). In addition, for every new customer that joins the Clean Express Unlimited Wash Club, $10 will be donated to Crisis Center North to help support their mission of empowering victims of domestic violence and cultivating attitudes and community behaviors that break the cycle of violence.

Clean Express Auto Wash announced its expansion into the Pittsburgh market in late July, 2021. Part of the Express Wash Concepts family of award-winning express car wash locations, Clean Express currently operates more than 25 locations throughout Pittsburgh, Greater Cleveland, Toledo and Detroit.

About Clean Express Auto Wash:

Clean Express Auto Wash is Greater Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Toledo and Detroit's premier express car wash with 25+ locations and growing. Clean's fast, high-quality and environmentally friendly car washes are 100% satisfaction guaranteed, and the Unlimited Wash Club offers truly unlimited car washes at any Clean Express starting at $20 a month per vehicle. For more information, visit www.cleanexpresswash.com.

About Express Wash Concepts:

Express Wash Concepts (EWC) operates 92+ award winning, express car wash locations across six states under the following brands: Moo Moo Express Car Wash, Flying Ace Express Car Wash, Clean Express Auto Wash, Green Clean Express Auto Wash and Bee Clean Express Car Wash. EWC brands feature fast, high quality and environmentally friendly express tunnel wash experiences and free vacuums. The company's popular Unlimited Wash Club packages offer members the convenience and value of contactless payment and unlimited washing at any location. For more information, please visit www.expresswashconcepts.com.

SOURCE Express Wash Concepts
COMPLY joins the ranks of prestigious organizations in year of rapid growth and product development.

NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- COMPLY, the global market leader of compliance software, consulting and education resources for the financial services sector, today announced that it has been included in FinTech Global's 2024 RegTech100 list of companies "that every financial institution needs to know about."

Now in its seventh year, the list highlights firms in the regulatory technology space that support financial institutions in effectively managing ongoing regulatory updates and technological advances.

"It's an honor to be among the 100 companies recognized for innovation and excellence in the regulatory technology space," said Amy Kadomatsu, COMPLY's CEO. "This past year, COMPLY has made enormous strides in our strategic development, advancing our capabilities and solidifying our position within the market. As an organization, our strategic vision is to be the first call for chief compliance officers. In support of that work, we continue to proactively release new solutions and services that empower compliance teams to maintain the highest standards of compliance, even as regulatory change forces shifting priorities and heightening requirements. One such recent launch is the release of COMPLY Digital Asset Trade Monitoring. This first-of-its-kind solution enables investment management firms, private equity firms, hedge funds, broker-dealers and investment advisory firms to track employee cryptocurrency and digital asset trades like they would any other traditional security. Industry recognition, like the RegTech100 list, confirms that we are succeeding in our vision to solve core compliance challenges with the kind of innovative solutions desired by the market."

More than 1,300 organizations submitted for the 2024 RegTech100 list, which organizer FinTech Global called "the most competitive yet."

Mariyan Dimitrov, RegTech Analyst Director of Research, said, "This year's RegTech100 list highlights the leading companies in areas such as information security, compliance, risk management and fraud prevention working on the forefront of innovation and new AI implementations which have demonstrated a strong track record delivering regulatory and operational improvements in financial services."

About COMPLY

As a global market leader in regulatory compliance solutions, COMPLY combines the power of regulatory technology, services and education to empower Chief Compliance Officers (CCOs) and compliance professionals to easily navigate the regulatory landscape. COMPLY enables firms to scale their growth, while remaining vigilant in their compliance efforts by providing solutions designed to manage the burden of complex compliance tasks. Our deep bench of industry expertise  which includes expansive knowledge in technology enablement and regulatory compliance protocols and processes from our product portfolio offerings ComplySci, RIA in a Box and NRS  supports more than 7,000 clients, including investment management firms, private equity firms, hedge funds, broker-dealers, registered investment advisers and other financial service sector participants.

COMPLY continually supports clients in their work to proactively address core compliance challenges  minimizing risk, addressing critical priorities and meeting new demands as the industry evolves and the firm scales.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1943528/COMPLY_New_Logo.jpg
MARLTON, N.J., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Approximately 605,000 people are being notified that their Social Security numbers and other confidential information were compromised when an unauthorized party was able to access the computer network of East River Medical Imaging, a diagnostic imaging and radiology practice based in New York City, New York. The data breach lawyers at Console & Associates, P.C. are investigating claims on behalf of anyone affected by the East River Medical Imaging breach, hoping to fully inform them of the risks they face in the wake of the breach as well as their legal rights.

The sensitive personal data of 605,809 patients has been compromised. Now, patients' full names, Social Security numbers, contact information, insurance information, and medical information may be in the hands of criminals, putting them at a significantly higher risk of identity theft and other frauds. The incident also affected the names, contact information, financial account information, and driver's license numbers of employees.

On November 22, 2023, East River Medical Imaging filed notice with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights as well as a website notice describing a data breach affecting patients and employees.

East River Medical Imaging notes that the incident stemmed from a cyberattack in which an unauthorized party was able to access its network between August 31, 2023 and September 20, 2023, including certain files containing confidential patient information.

The list of sensitive patient information that was exposed includes:

Names,

Social Security numbers,

Contact information,

Insurance information, and

Medical information.

If you receive a data breach notice from East River Medical Imaging, you could now be at risk of identity theftand the devastating financial and legal consequences that go along with it.

What Should You Do if You Receive an East River Medical Imaging Data Breach Letter?

Individuals who receive a data breach letter from East River Medical Imaging should take steps to protect themselves. (See our Guide for Victims of Data Breach for more details at https://www.myinjuryattorney.com/consumer-privacy-data-breach-lawyers/if-your-information-has-been-compromised-in-a-data-breach/ ).

Additionally, victims should consider contacting a data breach attorney immediately, as anyone who receives a data breach letter from East River Medical Imaging may be entitled to financial compensation.

If you wish to discuss this data security incident, please contact Console & Associates, P.C. at (866) 778-5500. You can also learn more about this data breach and potential lawsuit at https://www.myinjuryattorney.com/data-breach-investigation-east-river-medical/ .

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.

Console & Associates, P.C.

866-778-5500

[email protected]

SOURCE Console & Associates, P.C.
CTEK to Display Performance Products

CHICAGO, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CTEK, a leading global brand in battery management solutions, will return to the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show in Indianapolis this week in booth #4506. Following the success of exhibiting in 2022, CTEK will once again display its performance products at the PRI Show, the premier motorsports trade show.

CTEK Returns To PRI Show In Indianapolis

"Last year, we were proud to introduce the motorsports industry to CTEK's innovations to keep their race cars running at peak performance," said Bobbie DuMelle, President of CTEK North America. "CTEK products can alleviate the worry of race teams by keeping their race cars and powersport vehicles running."

CTEK will display its complete line-up of battery products for all 12 Volt batteries, including lithium, that can extend the battery life and maximize battery and vehicle performance. Race and powersport vehicles are often stored for long periods of time, and a battery can lose its charge while stored. For the best performance possible, race and powersport vehicles needs to be in top condition including the battery.

"Many racers are on tight budgets, and their vehicles aren't driven on a daily basis," added DuMelle. "CTEK products can help them save money while ensuring their racecars start when it's most critical, on the racetrack."

The CT5 POWERSPORT ensures racers are ready for action every time. With dedicated programs for lead-acid and lithium batteries, racers can get the best performance out of their vehicle batteries whether on land, water, snow, or ice. The CT5 POWERSPORT has been designed specifically to charge and maintain powersport batteries using advanced technology to give three fully automatic charging and maintenance programs  Normal: for all lead-acid batteries, including AGM, and all 12V LiFePO4 batteries. If required, the CT5 Powersport can be connected directly to the battery indefinitely, it will not over or undercharge. The CT5 POWERSPORT battery charger provides peace of mind that the battery is charged to capacity and ready to go.

On the track, the CTEK four-in-one CS FREE portable charger enables charging on-the-go. The multi-functional CS FREE celebrates the growing complexity of in-vehicle technologies by providing four cutting-edge products in one portable unit: Adaptive Boost safe start, battery charger, smart maintainer, and hi-tech power bank. Unlike traditional booster cables, the award-winning CS FREE uses revolutionary Adaptive Boost technology to gently and safely give a dead battery a boost to start within just 15 minutes which is great insurance for the starting line.

"We were thrilled with the amount of interest in CTEK at the PRI Show in 2022," said DuMelle. "We know the 2023 Show will be even more successful." We are excited to see more CTEK chargers in the racetrack pits."

Stop by booth #4506 or visit www.smartercharger.com for more information.

About CTEK

Established in Dalarna, Sweden, CTEK is the leading global brand in battery charging solutions, most specifically vehicle charging. CTEK offers products ranging from 12V and 24V battery chargers to charging solutions for electrical vehicles. CTEK's E-mobility solutions range from individual EV chargers to larger corporate and commercial installations with multiple charging stations that require load balancing and integrate seamlessly with monitoring and payment equipment. CTEK's products are sold via a carefully selected network of global distributors and retailers: as original equipment; supplied to more than 50 of the world's leading vehicle manufacturers; and through charge point operators, property owners and other organizations/individuals providing EV charging infrastructure. CTEK takes pride in its unique culture based on a passion for innovation and a deep commitment to supporting the transition to a greener mobility, by adhering to industry leading ESG standards.

Press Contact:

Michelle Suzuki

310-444-7115

http://www.smartercharger.com

SOURCE CTEK
PHOENIX, Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Daiso, the renowned global retail chain offering a wide range of affordable and unique products, is thrilled to announce the grand opening at Arcadia Fiesta in Phoenix, Arizona on December 16th. "We are thrilled to open our store at Arcadia Fiesta," said Jack Williams, Chief Retail Operations Officer for Daiso USA. "This achievement reflects the dedication and support of our customers who have embraced Daiso's unique concept and diverse product range. We are excited to provide an exceptional shopping experience to the vibrant Phoenix community and look forward to serving our customers with the utmost care and dedication."

The new Daiso store at Arcadia Fiesta encompasses 12,150 square feet and promises to be a haven for shoppers seeking quality merchandise at affordable prices. With its extensive range of products spanning various categories, including Japanese inspired home decor, stationery, food, and more, Daiso has become synonymous with accessible and innovative offerings. John Clarke, Chief Development Officer for Daiso USA says, "Arizona based Daiso customers have shown us through our online business and social media their desire for us to have more stores within the state, influencing our immediate growth strategy in this region. We currently operate 118 units in 7 states with more states opening in 2024".

On both Saturday, December 16th and Sunday, December 17th, the first 100 customers to shop at the Arcadia Fiesta location and make a minimum purchase of $30 will receive a free goodie bag and a plushie. These special offerings are Daiso's way of expressing gratitude to its loyal customers and welcoming new shoppers to the Daiso community.

Daiso invites customers to join in the celebration. The Arcadia Fiesta Daiso, at 3141 E. Indian School Road, Suite 3055, is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m to 9 p.m and Sunday from 10 a.m to 8 p.m.

About Daiso:

Daiso is a global retail chain founded in Japan, known for its vast array of unique and affordable products across various categories such as household goods, stationery, beauty, and more. Daiso entered the US market in 2005 and continues to expand its global footprint while maintaining its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. The Daiso US headquarters is located in La Mirada, CA.

SOURCE Daiso USA
NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to Technavio, the global data science platform market size is estimated to grow by USD 2,49,147.71 million from 2022 to 2027. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 26.78% during the forecast period. The report includes historic market data from 2017 to 2021. In 2017, the market was valued at USD 37,419.53 million. By geography, the global data science platform market is segmented into North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa. The report provides actionable insights and estimates the contribution of all regions to the growth of the global data science platform market. North America will account for a significant share of the global market during the forecast period. The growth of the data science platform market in North America is driven by the increase in data generation across various industries, such as the retail, BFSI, healthcare, and public sectors, due to the increase in digital transformation, such as digitalization of workspace, access via mobile apps and websites, online transactions, online purchases and sells, and virtualization of desktops. Most banks in the US are leveraging data science technologies to gain a competitive edge over their competitors. Big data analytics services, which are one of the popular applications of data science, help firms achieve real-time marketing, integration of e-commerce platforms with payment processing, and facilitate the small loans and microloans market in the US. Thus, the increased adoption of big data analytics is expected to enhance the growth of the financial services spending market in North America, which in turn, is expected to, drive the growth of the market in the region. The report provides a comprehensive analysis of growth opportunities at regional levels, new product launches, the latest trends, and the post-pandemic recovery of the global market. For more insights on the market, Request a sample report

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Data Science Platform Market

Global data science platform market - Five Forces

The global data science platform market is fragmented, and the five forces analysis covers

Bargaining power of buyers

The threat of new entrants

Threat of rivalry

Bargaining power of suppliers

Threat of substitutes

Interpretation of porter's five models helps to strategize the business, for entire details  buy the report!

Global data science platform market  Customer Landscape

The report includes the market's adoption lifecycle, from the innovator's stage to the laggard's stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their growth strategies.

Global data science platform market - Segmentation Assessment

Segment Overview

Technavio has segmented the market based on component (Platform and Services), and deployment (On-premise and Cloud).

The platform segment will account for a significant share of the global market during the forecast period. Data science platforms that are considered the best usually offer the flexibility of open-source tools and the scalability of elastic computer resources. Some of the best data science platforms include Alteryx Analytics, Microsoft Azure ML studio, and the RapidMiner platform. These platforms enable data-driven business decisions, and enterprises are investing in data science platforms and advanced analytics capabilities to improve business outcomes. Therefore, this will drive the growth of the platform segment during the forecast period.

Download a Sample Report

Global data science platform market  Market Dynamics

Key factor driving market growth

The high generation of data volumes is a key factor driving the growth of the global data science platform market.

Enterprise applications are generating large volumes of data, and this will keep continuing throughout the forecast period and beyond.

Moreover, the increasing volume of data generated in organizations through various channels and sources has compelled organizations to implement big data analytics and save a significant amount of cost for organizations.

Data science platforms and associated technologies have helped organizations transform unstructured and semi-structured data into structured and meaningful data.

Big data analytics, a popular data science application, can be used for retrieving and analyzing data to discover significant weaknesses, develop indicator patterns to identify opportunities and threats; and optimize business decisions.

As data volumes are growing, the demand for data analytics is also growing, which is expected to drive the growth of the market during the forecast period.

Leading trends influencing the market

The growing dependency on the internet is the primary trend in the global data science platform market.

With the penetration rate of the internet increasing, people tend to share their personal information on the platform, especially on social media.

Companies are also offering storage services in the cloud, leading to the storage of critical information on the Web.

Banks and payment card companies are also enabling customers to make transactions such as online transactions and payments using the Internet.

Optimization of capacity, reduction of lead time and cost, and increased profit through the development of IT infrastructure are key requirements in any organization. These can be brought about through business analytics.

The solution enhances an organization's processes by improving quality and resource control, which, in turn, enhances the productivity and efficiency of the firm.

The deployment of business analytics helps organizations in improving their efficiency and productivity. This helps them meet their business demands quickly and remain competitive. These benefits will drive market growth during the forecast period.

Major challenges hindering market growth

Increasing threat from open-source data science platform vendors is a major challenge to the growth of the global data science platform market.

Vendors such as Pentaho and Jasper soft enable enterprises to use business analytics functionality free of cost.

The market has many open-source vendors that also provide a range of data science tools and applications.

In addition, a combination of multiple products from various open-source vendors can cover almost all the functionalities that on-premise or on-demand data science platform software vendors provide.

Open-source vendors provide query, reporting, analysis, advanced analytics, and data warehouse generation platforms. This, in turn, has a negative impact on the market share of data science platform vendors.

Drivers, trends, and challenges have an impact on market dynamics, which can impact businesses. Find more insights in a sample report!

What are the key data covered in this data science platform market report?

CAGR of the market during the forecast period

Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth of the data science platform market between 2023 and 2027

Precise estimation of the size of the data science platform 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 Data Science Platform Market industry across North America , Europe , APAC, South America , and Middle East and Africa

, , APAC, , and and A thorough analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information about vendors

Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the growth of data science platform market vendors

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TOC

Executive Summary Market Landscape Market Sizing Historic Market Size Five Forces Analysis Market Segmentation by Component Market Segmentation by Deployment Customer Landscape Geographic Landscape Drivers, Challenges, and Trends Company Landscape Company Analysis Appendix

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Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

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SOURCE Technavio
Passengers queue at Luang Prabang railway station of the China-Laos Railway in Luang Prabang, Laos, Dec. 4, 2023. (Xinhua/Lu Yun)

VIENTIANE, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- At the age of 20, Lao girl Bounmee already became the breadwinner for her family. As the chief conductor of a bullet train on the China-Laos Railway, she now earns a salary way more than her peers.

"My parents are so proud of me," she said in fluent Chinese. After high school, she went to study Chinese in the hope that language skills could help her land a high-paying job, and the launch of the China-Laos Railway on Dec. 3, 2021 helped her hard work pay off.

Two years into operation, the railway has created jobs for thousands of Laotians like Bounmee, and brought tangible benefits to local tourism, supporting the country's post-pandemic growth.

Over the past two years, the railway has handled 24.2 million passenger trips and transported 29.1 million tons of cargo, according to China's railway operator. The monthly passenger trips handled by the railway have grown significantly from more than 600,000 at the beginning of its operation to more than 1.1 million now.

According to the Laos-China Railway Co., Ltd. (LCRC), a joint venture based in Lao capital Vientiane responsible for the operation of the railway's Lao section, the demand for the bullet trains are beyond original expectations, and the company is stepping up efforts to tailor to Lao people's ever-increasing and diversifying needs.

For instance, in line with the increasing demand for high-end services, the LCRC added business-class seats in new trains, facilitating better experiences along the journey.

"We want to bring quality products and services to Laos, and we want Lao people to share the benefits during the process," a LCRC operation manager said.

The railway has contributed to the recovery of tourism industry in Laos, which is a crucial driver for growth but was badly hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. The bullet trains became a much-needed boost, as it greatly cuts travel time between major cities, attracting tourists from home and abroad.

At Luang Prabang, a popular tourist destination, passengers were lining up to take the bullet trains. Thanks to the China-Laos Railway, travel time between Vientiane and Luang Prabang was cut to about 2 hours, compared with more than 6 hours of driving.

"We chose Laos as the destination because it's convenient to travel around via the trains," said Minjung Choi, a tourist from South Korea, who was on a five-day visit to Laos with her friend.

"It's a clean, safe, and efficient way to travel, and it's not too hard for us to buy the tickets," she said.

More than 2.4 million foreign tourists visited Laos in the first nine months of 2023, up by 285 percent from a year ago, according to statistics from the Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.

Looking forward, the LCRC said it hopes that together with the development of the railway, the skills of local employees like Bounmee could also improve so that more management positions could open to local people, supporting high-quality employment.

For Bounmee, who now has a Chinese name "Xiao Li," meaning "little beauty" in Chinese, that means brighter career prospects and a shining future ahead.

"I hope I can travel to China to learn more technical skills and see with my eyes of the beautiful country," she said.

Chief conductor Bounmee works on a bullet train on the China-Laos Railway in Laos, Dec. 4, 2023. (Xinhua/Lu Yun)

Editor: WRX
The industry-leading AI-powered software for precision-matching patients to clinical trials offers deeper access and visibility into eligible patient populations across 1K+ research facilities in the Deep 6 AI ecosystem

PASADENA, Calif., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Deep 6 AI , the leader in AI-powered precision research software which de-risks and accelerates clinical trials for research sites and sponsors, today announced the expansion of its Recruitment Acceleration solution , known for leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to mine the industry's deepest source of real-time electronic medical record (EMR) data to precisely find patients for trials. With the expanded solution, life sciences companies can share AI-matched patient cohorts with IRB-approved site staff across the Deep 6 AI ecosystem. This allows sites to identify each patient, validate their eligibility with evidence in the EMR, and track their recruitment statuses faster and more precisely, shortening the time to enrollment.

Deep 6 AI also offers expanded access to all these precision-matched, trial-eligible patients, across all site locations and physicians. The site's research team can easily identify eligible patients treated by physicians other than the principal investigator, validate them, and track referrals inside the EMR. This expands the recruitable patient population at any given site and often boosts trial diversity.

"While traditional real-word data (RWD) has become ubiquitous in clinical research, it has many shortcomings that make it insufficient for patient recruitment. By aggregating, normalizing, and tokenizing various types of claims and EMR data types, RWD sacrifices precision, real-time updates, schema flexibility, and easy ties back to real patients," said Wout Brusselaers, founder and CEO of Deep 6 AI. "Deep 6 AI provides a powerful real-time alternative: precision cohorts built from 'real patient data' (RPD), including unstructured physician notes, pathology reports, and genomics data. When life sciences companies plan and execute their trial using the same data as the actual sites recruiting the patients, it de-risks and accelerates accruals and reduces the burden on clinicians and site staff."

Using deep and real-time comprehensive clinical data to identify patient cohorts with unmatched precision lends itself well to observational, real-world evidence (RWE) projects too. With the Deep 6 AI RWE Generation solution, sponsors can leverage its ecosystem for prospective monitoring, registries, and RWE studies or precisely identifying patient charts for review.

Deep 6 AI's life sciences solutions also provide access to advanced genomics and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) insights. Its recently launched genomics module uses AI to find patients with specific genetic markers, enabling precision medicine and cancer researchers to query EMRs for 19,000 genes, multiple mutation types, and over 30,000 locus-specific mutation names. Additionally, its solutions provide race and ethnicity data at the site, cohort, and patient levels to help organizations develop a Race and Ethnicity Diversity Plan and meet diverse enrollment goals faster.

Life sciences companies can meet with Deep 6 AI at the 42nd JPM Healthcare Conference 2024 in San Francisco, California and at the SCOPE Summit 2024 in Orlando, Florida. Contact the team to schedule a meeting.

About Deep 6 AI

Deep 6 AI is the leader in clinical trial acceleration software, enabling healthcare organizations and life sciences companies to de-risk trial design, improve feasibility, and accelerate recruitment. Its AI-powered software mines structured and unstructured electronic medical record data to precisely match patients to clinical trials in real time across its ecosystem of 1K+ research facilities, including 18 academic medical centers, 11 NCI-Designated Cancer Centers, and 3 NCI Community Oncology Research Programs. Visit deep6.ai to learn more.

Media contact:

Laurie Thackeray

VP, Marketing, Deep 6 AI

Laurie.thackeray@deep6.ai

(919) 619-3105

SOURCE Deep 6 AI
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DiscoverE (Discover Engineering), a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring the next generation of engineers, is calling on engineering and technical professionals along with anyone who wants to make a difference, to volunteer as judges for the 32nd Annual Future City Competition. Judging opportunities are available in January (select a region near you), or February at the global finals competition in Washington, DC, or virtually in January or February.

Each year, the DiscoverE Future City competition impresses judges with students' innovative solutions for a better world. The event features a convergence of young minds presenting groundbreaking ideas that leave everyone in awe.

This year's Future City Competition challenges middle school students to imagine and design future cities that are fully electric and powered by clean, green, and renewable energy sources. Students will present their visions of the future through a city essay, a scale model, a project plan, and a presentation.

Each year, more than 60,000 students, representing 1,800 schools and 38 regions in the US, take part in the Future City Competition. Teams present their ideas at Regional Competitions in January. US regional winners then face off at the Future City Finals, where they are joined by a growing roster of global teams, including those from Canada and China. Taking place in Washington, DC February 17-20, 2024, during Engineers Week, the exciting competition culminates with one team taking home the grand prize including $7,500 for their school's STEM program (provided by Finals sponsor Bentley Systems) and a STEM experience (last year's winning team went to NASA's space camp).

"We are excited to offer this opportunity for individuals who want to make a difference to participate in this inspiring competition and help us identify the future leaders of STEM," says Kathy Renzetti, Executive Director & CEO of DiscoverE. "By volunteering as a judge, you will have the chance to mentor and encourage the next generation of innovators and problem solvers."

Calling All Engineers, Technical Professionals, and Future Difference-Makers

As a judge, you will play a vital role in evaluating student projects and selecting the winners of the regional and national competitions. You will have the opportunity to:

Review student essays, project plans, and scale models of future cities

Assess students' understanding of engineering principles and their ability to apply them to real-world challenges

Provide valuable feedback and encouragement to aspiring engineers

Be a regional, finals, or virtual judge

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering as a judge for the Future City Competition is a rewarding experience that will allow you to:

Make a positive impact on the lives of young students

Help shape the future of engineering and STEM education

Network with other professionals in your field

Gain valuable insights into the minds of the next generation of innovators

Join the Movement

If you are a professional, educator, engineer, or anyone who wants to pay it forward and help make a difference in the future, DiscoverE encourages you to volunteer as a judge for the Future City Competition. Visit https://futurecity.org/ to learn more about the competition and how to get involved. Visit https://futurecity.org/judge-registration/ to volunteer as a judge.

Major funding for DiscoverE's Future City Competition comes from the Bechtel Corporation, Bentley Systems Inc.,, PMIEF, and the Overdeck Family Foundation. Additional program support is provided by Linde Engineering, Pentair Foundation, and Shell Energy.

About DiscoverE

Discover Engineering, is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing global resources, programs, and connections between K-12 students, engineers and STEM professionals. The organization has a special focus on reaching girls and underrepresented and underserved students. DiscoverE is the backbone organization behind some of the earliest and most widely adopted STEM and engineering programs available. The programs are free to all students, and it is DiscoverE's intent to remain at no cost to participants. DiscoverE is the backbone organization behind Engineers Week (established 1951), Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day (2001), World Engineering Day (2016, formerly known as Global Day of the Engineer), Chats with Change Makers (2020) and the Future City Competition (1993).

For more information, visit:

FutureCity.org or Future City Press Kit

LinkedIn |Facebook |Pinterest| Twitter |Instagram |YouTube

DiscoverE, 1520 Belle View Blvd #3413, Alexandria, VA 22307

SOURCE Discover Engineering
Rapid business growth fuels brand relaunch; New, colorful designs reflect the joy and excitement that Double Good brings to America's Youth

CHICAGO, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Double Good , a product based fundraising company dedicated to raising joy for America's youth through the sale of made-to-order popcorn, recently announced a brand refresh in celebration of 25 years in business. The new branding, which is inclusive of a new logo, bright and vibrant colors and imagery, is reflective of the company's unique and playful popcorn flavors, including the spicy "In Queso Fire" and the flavorful "Easy Peasy Caramel Cheesy." The new branding is now reflected across all business elements, including Double Good's website, its virtual fundraising app, popcorn bags and shipping boxes, merchandise and manufacturing facilities.

Double Good's rebrand comes as the company is on track to help customers raise over $100 million this year  an increase of nearly 3x since 2020. To keep up with growing demand for the product, Double Good opened an expanded distribution location in Elmhurst, Illinois this past spring to improve production capabilities, and has also earned awards and recognition from both Crain's Chicago and Inc. 5000 this year as a result of rapid business growth.

"Double Good's new branding is bigger and bolder, and commemorates the impact we've made during our first 25 years in business," said Tim Heitmann, Founder and CEO. "The colorful new branding is a true reflection of our company's mission to raise joy for America's youth, and we hope consumers can feel that each time a bag of popcorn is opened."

The new branding, which was developed in partnership with creative agency goDutch , is one of the many accomplishments achieved by Double Good this year. In addition to this milestone, the company hosted its first-ever Double Good Days - a free event for children with special needs through the Double Good Kids Foundation. The proprietary event hosted 550 attendees from across the Chicagoland area for equitable learning experiences and activities.

For more information, and to keep up with all things Double Good, visit www.doublegood.com and follow the brand on Instagram .

About Double Good

Founded in 1998, Double Good was born out of a love for delicious popcorn and grew into a passion for positively impacting the community. Double Good combines an easy-to-use virtual fundraising platform with award-winning popcorn to help create opportunities for children and teens to realize their dreams. Most recently, Double Good was included in the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing businesses for 2023 and was recognized on the Crain's Fast 50 list (No. 18) for Chicago's fastest growing companies. In 2022, Double Good was also honored with Inc.'s Best in Business award for its popcorn donation program, which has enabled users to donate millions of dollars worth of popcorn to health care workers and youth advocates across the country. In addition to its fundraising platform and donation program, the brand also exemplifies its mission through the Double Good Kids Foundation - a 501(c)(3) dedicated to providing equitable experiences for children with special needs. To learn more on how Double Good can raise joy for you, visit www.doublegood.com .

Media Contact:

Isabel Meier

[email protected]

(616) 901-1343

SOURCE Double Good
MONTGOMERY, Ala., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Spring registrations for classes throughout the Alabama Community College System are higher than they were this time last year, building on the momentum from increased fall semester enrollment and marking the third consecutive year for enrollment increases statewide.

Fall semester enrollment in for-credit academic and technical programs rose more than 6 percent from 78,524 students in 2022 to 83,509 in 2023. This year's fall enrollment is the highest the system experienced since Fall 2017, when for-credit enrollment was 81,139.

The current enrollment growth represents the third consecutive year of for-credit enrollment increases across the Alabama Community College System, bucking national trends for community colleges. According to the National Student Clearinghouse, community colleges nationally grew by about 4 percent in the fall term.

Registrations in noncredit workforce-connected programs offered through the Alabama Community College System are also on the rise. More than 27,700 residents are currently participating in training programs that yield industry-recognized credentials within weeks, contributing to Alabama's workforce development. Programs such as Adult Education's Alabama Career Essentials (ACE), Mobilizing Alabama's Pathways (MAPS), and the Innovation Center's Skills for Success rapid training classes are playing a pivotal role in upskilling the workforce.

Spring registration at Alabama's community and technical colleges is already showing a remarkable increase of more than 17 percent compared to the same period last year.

"Enrollment increases are great news that mean more residents are interested in training that will help them achieve success," said Jimmy H. Baker, Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System.

"Residents and employers are interested in the partnerships, wraparound services, scholarships and career services that their local community colleges are offering, and we, by nature of being embedded in the community, must remain responsive to the local workforce needs. Supporting our communities is what this System was created for 60 years ago, and that is what we will continue to provide."

Alabama's 24 community and technical colleges offer a diverse range of certification, credential, dual enrollment, and degree programs in collaboration with leading industry partners.

About ACCS

Alabama's community and technical colleges were merged into one system May 3, 1963. With 24 community and technical colleges in more than 130 locations and an economic impact of $6.6 billion, the ACCS is Alabama's gateway to first-class, affordable education and technical training to compete in a constantly evolving workforce.

Media contact: Ebony Davis, 3342373842, ebony.horton@accs.edu

SOURCE Alabama Community College System
ORO Impact Launches Innovative Down Payment Assistance Platform to Unlock $9 Trillion of Wealth for American Families

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ORO Impact, a social impact fintech company, has launched a revolutionary down payment assistance (DPA) platform that aims to transform homeownership throughout the United States. ORO Impact's customizable platform makes it easy for employers to make loans to their employees, which the employees can use to make down payments on homes, and realize the dream of homeownership while providing a high-impact retention incentive for employers.

George Fatheree, Founder and CEO, ORO Impact George Fatheree, Founder and CEO, ORO Impact

As the 401(k) plan revolutionized retirement savings  offered today to 69% of private sector employees and 92% of government employees  ORO Impact aims to do the same for homeownership.

ORO Impact addresses two national challenges: down payment affordability has put homeownership outreach for many Americans, and employee tenure is at record lows as employers struggle to attract and retain employees.

ORO Impact is the brainchild of George Fatheree III, a history-making attorney turned social impact entrepreneur. Fatheree is most notably recognized for securing the 2022 landmark return of the Bruce's Beach property, an African-American beach resort in Manhattan Beach, California  marking the first time in U.S. history that the government has returned property taken by racially motivated eminent domain.

Helping Employers, Helping Employees

By helping employers extend down payment assistance to employees, employers benefit from lower retention costs, and employees can begin building wealth quicker. Using ORO Impact's solution, employers can tailor DPA programs to meet their specific needs by structuring loans as forgivable, repayable, or repayable through a portion of the home's appreciation. ORO Impact also offers home buyers access to credit repair and other first time home buyer resources.

Addressing Wealth Disparities

Homeownership reflects racial inequity , with homeownership rates for African American and Latino households lagging the national median by 22% and 15%, respectively. In many parts of the country, African American homeownership rates are lower today than in the 1960s, when housing discrimination based on race was legal.

Technology Partner, HOTB Software Solutions

ORO Impact's platforms are maintained by its software and technology partner  HOTB Software Solutions, LLC. Founded in 2008, HOTB has distributed more than $8 billion in assistance on behalf of the U.S. Treasury and over 17 state agencies, successfully processing thousands of monthly financial transactions for various homeowner and rental assistance programs.

For more information visit www.oroimpact.com .

ABOUT ORO IMPACT

ORO Impact is a social impact fintech dedicated to closing the wealth gap by revolutionizing access to home ownership through its down payment assistance platform and providing solutions for employers to improve employee retention. For more information visit www.oroimpact.com .

ABOUT GEORGE FATHEREE III

George Fatheree III is a social impact entrepreneur and history-making attorney. Fatheree is the founder and CEO of ORO Impact. Fatheree is most notably recognized for securing the return of the Bruce's Beach property, marking the first time in U.S. history that the government returned property taken by racially motivated eminent domain. A sought after public speaker, he's keynoted panels for corporate, government and nonprofit organizations, including his alma maters Harvard University and Loyola Marymount University. For more information visit www.georgefatheree.com .

MEDIA CONTACT:

Hadiya Williams-Cain

WrightOne Media Group

[email protected]

310.382.6679

SOURCE Oro Impact
Fliggy X Paris Region Pass and Online Chinese Customer Service Center are jointly launched to create better travel experiences

HANGZHOU, China, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fliggy, a leading online travel platform and wholly-owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA and HKEX: 9988), signed a letter of intent with Choose Paris Region, a business growth and destination agency for the Paris Region, to deepen collaboration on digital marketing and customer services. At the signing ceremony in Hangzhou, the two parties jointly announced the launch of Fliggy X Paris Region Pass and Online Chinese Customer Service Center.

As China's outbound tourism recovers rapidly, the Fliggy X Paris Region Pass, which offers admission to the top attractions in the city, will soon be available for purchase on Fliggy. Once consumers order a Fliggy X Paris Region Pass on the platform, they will be able to redeem a physical card and a hand-drawn map showing popular tourist attractions with creative travel hacks at designated stores at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport or in downtown areas.

An Online Chinese Customer Service Center will also be set up to provide 24/7 customer support for Chinese tourists in France. Additionally, the two parties will further explore the use of technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and live streaming to create an immersive experience of touring museums and art venues.

Dangxing Chu, Head of International Vacation Business at Fliggy, said: "We have wanted to launch a city pass with Choose Paris Region for some time to enable Chinese tourists to experience the utter beauty and unparalleled charm of this region. This will now become a reality."

Travel between China and France is increasing. Fliggy's data reveals that orders for visa services to France so far this year are more than seven times higher compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in China recently announced that French ordinary passport holders can do business or travel in China without a visa for up to 15 days from December 2023 to November 2024.

"Chinese tourists are now favoring self-guided tours rather than group tours when traveling to Paris," said Christophe Decloux, Deputy Managing Director of Choose Paris Region. "We see creating supreme visitor experience as our primary goal. We aim to help our visitors gain a deeper understanding of the city and the Parisian way of life. Paris will be hosting the Summer Olympics and the 150th Anniversary of Impressionism in 2024, and we hope to bring Chinese tourists better services and travel experiences through our joint efforts at these exciting moments."

Zhuoran Zhuang, CEO of Fliggy, said: "Steeped in France's profound history and rich culture, the Paris Region has long been a must-visit destination for Chinese travelers. Through this collaboration, we can combine Fliggy's ecosystem and innovations with Choose Paris Region's rich travel resources to better showcase the uniqueness of the beautiful city, as well as create more exciting travel experiences, thus contributing to the bright future of Sino-French cultural tourism."

About Fliggy

Fliggy is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA), and is one of the leading online travel platforms in China. Fliggy places a strong emphasis on innovation in its products and services, catering to the increasingly personalized and diversified needs of consumers both in China and overseas markets.

Leveraging Fliggy's advantage as part of the Alibaba ecosystem, merchants can benefit from the vast user base within the Group. Fliggy also collaborates with partners through a full-service management format, helping more merchants, especially small and medium-sized ones, easily and efficiently share opportunities enabled by digitalization.

Fliggy's long-term strategy is to promote the digital transformation of the tourism industry, using an open platform and mechanisms to help the industry make better use of digital business infrastructure for their operations.

Media Contacts

Fliggy

[email protected]

Paradigm Consulting

Lynn Huang

[email protected]

+852 5332 1549

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DURHAM, N.C., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Formerly Incarcerated College Graduates Network (FICGN) proudly announces the inaugural recipients of the organization's Removing Barriers to Completion (RBC) scholarship, a new initiative aimed at providing critical assistance to people in reentry who face financial obstacles on their path to education completion. The RBC scholarship is a part of FICGN's broader "Removing Barriers Scholarship Program" (RB), which is dedicated to assisting students and professionals in reentry with securing employment opportunities and educational pursuits.

Terrell and Eddie Terrell and Tanaine

Eddie, an award recipient, emerged from incarceration after serving time in the Florida Department of Corrections. While incarcerated, Eddie took significant steps towards higher education, enrolling in a college program offered by Miami-Dade College in 2019. By 2022, he had accumulated an impressive number of credits, leaving just one class, Spanish II, to complete his Associate's degree. However, his educational journey was marred by financial hurdles.

"My situation presented difficulties to completing my education, but it was at that moment that FICGN extended its helping hand," says Eddie, who is now preparing to enroll in a four-year university to pursue a Bachelor's in Communications and Public Administration. "With one class left, my course load was not enough to qualify for a Pell grant, yet the out-of-pocket expenses for tuition and books were equally challenging, being that I just came home and had limited money saved."

Terrell Blount, Executive Director of FICGN, stepped forward to reimburse Eddie for the expenses he incurred to complete his course after learning about Eddie's story.

"We are committed to eliminating the obstacles that hinder success for individuals like Eddie, whose pursuit of a degree was disrupted by their release from incarceration. It's disheartening to hear that many individuals across the nation are released and unable to complete their degrees due to financial constraints. This issue underscores the systemic class disparities within the prison system, which can significantly hinder post-release success. We firmly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to complete their education, and we are committed to producing such circumstances."

Tanaine, FICGN's second Removing Barriers grant recipient, faced a unique challenge upon releasedebt owed to a college where she had been a dedicated student prior to her incarceration. Her pursuit of a degree in Communications was abruptly disrupted by prison, and she never expected the collateral consequences that would follow.

"When I was sentenced to prison, I was in the middle of the fall semester of my junior year. Upon release, one of the first things that I wanted to do was return to school and finish what I started. My dreams were halted when I found out that, due to my struggling academic performance from two years prior, I had an outstanding balance. I couldn't enroll anywhere until I paid it," says Tanaine.

With the generous support of FICGN, she received the financial assistance needed to settle her debt with the education institution, clearing the path for her to apply to the college of her choice.

Tanaine is now preparing for enrollment in January 2024 to finish her degree.

"We believe that a college education should be an unobstructed path to career success for our members. FICGN is committed to removing these financial barriers and opening doors for individuals like Tanaine," says Blount.

About The Formerly Incarcerated College Graduates Network

The Formerly Incarcerated College Graduates Network (FICGN) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that promotes the education and empowerment of formerly incarcerated people through a collective community. FICGN has over 1,600 members in nearly all 50 U.S. states and several countries who are formerly incarcerated and have achieved higher education attainment, working in various fields in the public and private sectors. FICGN unites system-impacted scholars to use their collective knowledge, resources and lived expertise to support one another personally and professionally.

SOURCE Formerly Incarcerated College Graduates Network
Personalized and non-work-related training are among the top L&D trends for 2024, according to a report by TalentLMS and Vyond.

SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, TalentLMS, the learning management system (LMS) for training success, in collaboration with Vyond, a leading AI-powered video creation platform, is releasing a research report on the 2024 learning and development trends within organizations.

TalentLMS

The survey was conducted among 1,000 employees across industries in the U.S., revealing the pivotal role training plays in retaining a skilled and motivated workforce. Forty-one percent of employees said they will look for another job in 2024 if their company doesn't provide them with training opportunities.

Given the importance of training for employee engagement and satisfaction, the survey explored the types of training and skills that will be important for organizations to provide in 2024. Eight in ten employees think personalized learning will be important in 2024, and 68% stated the same for non-work-related training that supports their overall well-being.

"There is a growing need among employees for training on topics and skills that transcend their job roles," said Thanos Papangelis, Co-founder of TalentLMS. "Personal and professional growth are not separate roads to success. Companies should invest in nurturing well-rounded professionals, acknowledging continuous learning beyond job specifics is essential in the ever-changing business landscape."

The TalentLMS-Vyond survey revealed the top three non-mandatory training topics employees want to get training on are leadership and management, mental health, and use of AI tools.

Underscoring the importance of training in career development, 72% of respondents said they have progressed in their careers thanks to the training they've received from their companies in 2023. In addition, 71% report feeling more prepared for the future of work because of the training they've been provided. Still, two in three employees (66%) think they need to develop new skills to be successful at their job.

"People-first companies know that skills development is essential to both the business and the employee,"said Van Diamandakis, Chief Commercial Officer at Vyond. "Getting it right for today's workforce requires addressing the challenges of workplace learning, including cost effective, relevant and engaging learning delivered at the moment of need and at scale, surfaced in our findings."

According to employees, when it comes to training offered by their companies, some of the main challenges they face are that training requires too much time and it isn't delivered in an engaging way. In fact, 68% responded they take training on a personal basis to improve their workplace skills and 58% use social media to cultivate new skills.

Download the full research: https://www.talentlms.com/research/learning-development-trends

About TalentLMS

Trusted by 70,000 teams, TalentLMS is the training platform built for success and designed with simplicity in mind. With a course library, an intuitive interface, and all the tools you need to create transcendent training, you'll be up and running in no time.

About Vyond

Vyond is the leader in AI-powered video creation. Over 65% of the Fortune 500, tens of thousands of businesses, and millions of end users use Vyond to transform mission-critical content into vibrant business communication that engages customers and employees, and drives positive business outcomes. Vyond is the leader in hundreds of verified customer reviews on G2, Capterra, and GetApp. The company has offices in Silicon Valley, Chicago, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Thailand.

SOURCE TalentLMS
CHICAGO, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Future of Hydrogen in Automotive is expected to reach 1,280 thousand Units by 2035 from 20 thousand Units in 2022 at a CAGR of 37.6% during the 20222035 period according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. While battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) have gained rapid traction in recent years, hydrogen offers several advantages. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) are particularly suited for large sized vehicles, such as trucks and buses, where battery capacity limitations inhibit the performance. Additionally, development in hydrogen infrastructure is rapidly progressing, addressing concerns about fuel availability.

Factors such as rising demand for zero-emissions commuting and government support for low-emission vehicles through subsidies and tax breaks have resulted in automakers embracing EVs and the expansion of the electric light commercial vehicle market. Government bodies are supporting zero emission vehicles over petrol or diesel automobiles due to growing worries about increased pollution by the automotive industry. People have acknowledged the importance of promoting zero-emission vehicles in order to prevent pollution. Government agencies in several countries are proposing attractive plans and incentives to entice and encourage individuals to acquire ELCVs, such as substantial discounts, reduction in taxes, lower road charges for zero emission vehicles, and others.

Browse in-depth TOC on "Future of Hydrogen in Automotive"

15  Tables

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Future of Hydrogen in Automotive Scope:

Report Coverage Details Units in 2022 20 thousand Units Estimated Units by 2035 1,280 thousand Units Growth Rate Poised to Grow at a CAGR of 37.6% Largest Market Asia Pacific Market Size Available for 2018-2035 Forecast Period 2022-2035 Forecast Units Volume (Thousand Units) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered Vehicle Type, Propulsion, and Region Geographies Covered Asia Pacific, Europe, and North America Key Market Opportunities Lower environmental degradation Key Market Drivers Lower emissions

"Buses are expected to be the largest commercial vehicle type during the forecast period."

The hydrogen fueled Bus segment is expected to have a significant demand during the forecast period, especially in European countries, Japan, and China. These countries plan to convert their public transport bus fleets to zero-emission vehicles. This offers a significant opportunity for the growth of the automotive fuel cell bus market. For instance, in September 2019, a Chinese bus manufacturer, Golden Dragon, received an order for 100 hydrogen fuel cell buses worth USD 21 million from Jiashan county, Zhejiang province. These buses were expected to be delivered in 2020. In the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic games, Geely was appointed as the transport provider. It deployed 80 units of the C12F hydrogen fuel cell buses to meet the requirement. European countries such as Denmark, France, Germany, Netherlands, and the UK have ordered fuel-cell buses to replace the current ICE bus fleets in their public transport systems. In addition, projects such as H2BusEurope, 3EMOTION, Clean Hydrogen in European Cities (CHIC), and Cogeneration of Hydrogen and Power (CH2P) are expected to propel the growth of the fuel cell electric bus market in the region. For instance, H2BusEurope plans to deploy 600 fuel cell buses, and 200 of these are expected to be delivered to Denmark by 2023. Various industry experts state that Europe is ready to deploy fuel-cell vehicles. Ballard Power Systems also announced that a quarter of the key cities in Europe are expected to deploy fuel-cell buses by 2025.

"FCEV segment will be the largest market by propulsion type during the forecast period."

During the forecast period, the FCEV segment is expected to lead the market during the forecast period. Most hydrogen fueled vehicles being launched over the years are FCEVs. This includes Beseselling FCEV Passenger Cars such as Toyota Mirai, Hyundai NEXO. Similarly, in the Van segment, most H2 fueled vehicles such as Citroen e-Jumpy, Peugeot-e Hydrogen, Opel Vivaro-e Hydrogen are FCEVs. Further, amongst buses and trucks, hydrogen fuelled vehicles such as Hyundai Elec City FCEB, Wrightbus Hydroliner FCEV, Hyzon Hymax, Hyundai XCIENT are also FCEVs. Market for FCHEVs and H2-ICE Vehicles are currently very Nische, and demand is expected to grow moderately during the forecast period.

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"Asia Pacific to lead the market during forecast period"

The Asia Pacific region anticipates substantial growth in the hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, driven by proactive policies from key nations. This includes plans for developing green hydrogen and setup of hydrogen refuelling stations across the region. China currently leads the global market for hydrogen fueled Buses and Trucks with its setup of CV only hydrogen refuelling stations across key cities. Similarly, India has also announced plans for increasing green hydrogen capacity to provide for the future demand. Ashok Leyland and Tata Motors have announced plans for making H2-ICE vehicles in the future. Further, Japan plans to have around 800,000 FCEVs on roads by 2030. Similarly, South Korea has also announced plans for 6.2 million FCEVs on road by 2040. Such factors are expected to lead to the continued dominance of hydrogen fueled vehicles in the Asia Pacific region.

Key Players

The Future of Hydrogen in Automotive is expected to be led by established players such as Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan), Hyundai Motor Company (South Korea), Honda Motors (Japan), BMW Group (Germany), Stellantis (Netherlands) among others.

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Recent Developments

In February 2023 , GM and Honda announced the joint development of FCEV powertrains for their upcoming models

, GM and Honda announced the joint development of FCEV powertrains for their upcoming models In September 2022 , Hyundai and IVECO Group showcased their new eDaily FCEV

, Hyundai and IVECO Group showcased their new eDaily FCEV In August 2022 , Toyota and BMW Group announced a partnership to develop FCEVs

, Toyota and BMW Group announced a partnership to develop FCEVs In July 2022 , Toyota launched H2 Trucks developed in partnership with Isuzu and Hino Motors

, Toyota launched H2 Trucks developed in partnership with Isuzu and Hino Motors In July 2021 , Volvo and Daimler Trucks announced plans to develop H2 fuel cell for long-haul heavy trucks

Browse Adjacent Markets: Energy and Power Market Research Reports & Consulting

Related Reports:

Hydrogen Market by Sector (Generation Type (Gray, Blue, Green), Storage (Physical, Material), Transportation (Long, Short)), Application (Energy (Power, CHP), Mobility, Chemical & Refinery (Refinery, Ammonia, Methanol)), Region - Global Forecast to 2030

Hydrogen Generation Market by Technology (SMR, ATR, POX, Coal Gasification, Electrolysis), Application (Refinery, Ammonia, Methanol, Transportation, Power Generation), Source (Blue, Green, Gray), Generation Mode Region - Global Forecast to 2028

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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.

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HOUSTON, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GATE Energy, a global leader in commissioning and start-up services, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded the onshore commissioning contract for the Woodside Trion Floating Production Unit (FPU) project by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. (HHI). GATE's scope includes pre-commissioning and commissioning planning and execution at HHI's fabrication yard in Ulsan, South Korea.

Lee Jordan, GATE Energy CEO, offered, "We are excited to build on our prior working relationship with HHI and our footprints in South Korea, Mexico, and the United States to support delivery of the first oil production facility for Mexico's deepwater acreage in the Gulf of Mexico. This will represent a substantial milestone for Woodside and Pemex and is a key step in unlocking the full potential of the basin for the Mexican people."

Mark Myhre, President of Commissioning at GATE Energy, expressed the company's pride and enthusiasm for this achievement: "Receiving the onshore commissioning contract for the Woodside Trion FPU project is a remarkable milestone for GATE Energy. This marks the third consecutive HHI-built FPU project awarded to us, demonstrating the trust and confidence that our valued clients place in our capabilities."

He continued, "We take immense pride in the fact that this project will not only deliver exceptional value to HHI Woodside and Mexico but will also bring benefit to our dedicated employee owners."

This opportunity also signifies a significant step in GATE Energy's global expansion. The Woodside Trion FPU project will take the company to Mexico for the first time, opening new horizons and extending its reach in the international energy market.

GATE Energy remains committed to its core values of safety, quality, and excellence as it embarks on this exciting project. The company is eager to collaborate with HHI and contribute to the success of the Trion FPU project, setting new industry standards and reinforcing its reputation as a trusted partner in the energy sector.

The Trion deepwater development is located in the Gulf of Mexico in the Perdido Fold Belt with water depths ranging up to 8,200 ft. The FPU will be constructed in South Korea with first oil targeted for 2028.

About GATE Energy

GATE Energy is a 100% employee-owned ESOP and family of companies that provide scalable, fit-for-purpose services for the energy sector including engineering, commissioning and specialty field services.

For more information on GATE Energy, visit www.gate.energy.

SOURCE GATE Energy
Over 2,000 years ago, the Silk Road and Maritime Silk Road connected Asia, Europe, and Africa, fostering cooperation between the East and West, advancing trade, civilization, global prosperity and human progress in general. In 2013, CPC General Secretary Xi Jinping proposed the concept of building a community of shared future for mankind and rolled out the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This initiative is rooted in the ancient Silk Road, but it is imbued with a contemporary spirit. It serves as a practical platform for the construction of a community of shared future for mankind, enriches global governance, and brings certainty and stability for the planet.

Marx and Engels highlighted in the Communist Manifesto that the emergence of the world market brought an end to the self-sufficiency of regions, nations and local communities. The level of interaction and interdependence among peoples, countries, and regions has therefore deepened, transforming the human history into a global history. The Marxist theory of world history foresaw the inevitable shift from regional, national history to a world history marked by international interaction. It also lays the theoretical groundwork for the BRI.

As economic globalization advances, nations have become more interdependent, eventually forming a global community. In the face of frequent global challenges and the evolving landscape of world affairs, BRI emerged as a practical response, offering practical guidance to the construction of a community of shared future for mankind.

In the last decade, BRI has evolved from a concept into tangible reality, becoming a recurring topic in resolutions of the UN General Assembly, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the BRICS, and various other multilateral mechanisms. It has also transformed into an international public good and a platform for cooperation. By linking policy, infrastructure, trade and capital, and fostering people-to-people connections, BRI has not only contributed to Chinas high-quality development but also yielded substantial benefits for the nations involved.

Through enhanced collaboration, BRI is tapping new potentials and exploiting new possibilities for world economic progress. Amidst the trend of de-globalization and increasing wealth disparities, China is proactively contributing to global development with the Chinese prescription of building a community of shared future for mankind.

Author: Dong Hao, lecturer at the School of Marxism, Chinese Academy of Sciences; and Duan Hongmei, research fellow at the Institute of International Trade and Economic Cooperation of the Ministry of Commerce.

Editor: WRX
BOSTON, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The global AI training dataset market has experienced rapid growth due to the rising demand for diverse and high-quality datasets essential for training AI and ML models across various industries. Driven by the proliferation of AI technologies and data-driven decision-making, companies are focusing on developing sophisticated solutions to cater to specific sector requirements. Despite challenges related to data privacy and bias, the market is expected to expand further, supported by advancements in data collection techniques and the integration of advanced technologies. Collaborations between industry players and regulatory developments will play a pivotal role in shaping the market's future trajectory.

"According to the latest BCC Research study, the demand for Global AI Training Dataset Market is estimated to increase from $1.8 billion in 2022 to reach $6.9 billion by 2028, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25.4% from 2022 through 2028."

This report delves into various product segments and market dynamics, offering revenue forecasts through 2028 and highlighting key trends and issues. Focusing on the competitive landscape, the report assesses critical success factors, R&D capabilities, and the influence of partnerships. Profiles of leading AI training dataset manufacturers provide valuable insights into their strategies and product offerings. The report also examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the market while segmenting the global AI training dataset market by service, technology, end-user, and geography. Notably, North America emerged as the dominant market for AI training datasets, showcasing the region's prominence. With revenue forecasts from 2023 to 2028, the report serves as a valuable guide for understanding the evolving landscape of the global AI training dataset market.

Learn More

The rising complexity of 5G's network architecture has spurred increased investments in AI virtual assistants, addressing challenges in conventional operation and maintenance management. These assistants drive efficiency, predict traffic patterns, and refine marketing strategies by handling diverse tasks. AI solutions, inspired by nature, combat environmental degradation more effectively than manual procedures. Leveraging AI tools optimizes carbon emissions, enhancing logistics and transportation networks. The evolution of AI technology toward composite AI, integrating data, algorithms, and processing power, enables deeper insights from diverse data sources, especially in complex business processes. Consequently, businesses are adopting composite AI for more comprehensive analyses, elevating customer experiences. In the AI training dataset market, the text segment is anticipated to dominate, finding extensive applications in IT for automated tasks like text classification, speech recognition, and caption generation, fostering enriched learning experiences through a deeper understanding of writing structures and styles.

Key Market Drivers of the Global AI Training Dataset Market

 The increasing adoption of AI solutions in the business process, is reflective of a fundamental shift in how businesses approach operational efficiency and strategic decision-making. This adoption is fueled by the recognition of AI's potential to automate repetitive tasks, optimize workflows, and provide valuable insights through advanced analytics, ultimately leading to enhanced productivity and cost-effectiveness. As businesses strive to remain agile and responsive in a fast-paced market, integrating AI solutions into their operations becomes a pivotal strategy to stay ahead of the competition.

 The growing need for analyzing large and complex datasets, arises from the exponential growth of data generated across various industries. This surge in data volume has created a pressing demand for sophisticated analytical tools capable of processing, interpreting, and extracting actionable insights from complex datasets. With businesses relying heavily on data-driven decision-making, the ability to effectively analyze and derive meaningful conclusions from these extensive datasets has become paramount for achieving operational excellence and gaining a competitive edge in the market.

 The growing adoption of advanced technologies in organizations, underscores the strategic imperative of embracing cutting-edge technologies to drive innovation and operational efficiency. The integration of advanced technologies, such as AI, machine learning, and big data analytics, enables organizations to optimize their processes, improve customer experiences, and develop tailored solutions that cater to evolving market demands. This proactive adoption of advanced technologies reflects a commitment to staying abreast of the latest industry trends and leveraging technological advancements to foster sustainable growth and success in an increasingly dynamic and competitive business landscape.

Request a Copy of the Global AI Training Dataset Market Report.

Report Synopsis

Report Metrics Details Base year considered 2022 Forecast Period considered 2023-2028 Base year market size $ 1.8 Billion Market Size Forecast $ 6.9 Billion Growth Rate CAGR Of 25.4% For the forecast period of 2023 to 2028 Segment Covered Type, End User Regions covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the world (RoW) Key Market Drivers  Increasing Adoption of AI Solutions in the Business Process  Growing Need for Analyzing Large and Complex Datasets  Growing Adoption of Advanced Technologies in the Organizations

The Development of the Global Market for AI Training Datasets:

The global AI training dataset market has evolved significantly, adapting to the increasing complexity of AI models and the growing demand for specialized datasets. Initially catering to basic AI models, the market shifted focus to high-quality, labeled datasets essential for training sophisticated systems in critical sectors. This evolution was propelled by advancements in AI technologies and a heightened emphasis on ethical data practices, setting the stage for further growth and innovation in the market.

Exploring Opportunities in the Global AI Training Dataset Market:

The global AI training dataset market holds immense promise, characterized by a burgeoning demand for advanced AI and ML applications across diverse industries. Unveiling the market's potential entails recognizing the pivotal role of high-quality training datasets in fostering innovation and development in AI technologies. As businesses increasingly integrate AI-driven solutions into their operations, the market presents a landscape ripe with opportunities for growth and advancement. Embracing the market's potential necessitates a thorough understanding of evolving technological trends, data-driven strategies, and ethical considerations, all of which contribute to unlocking the full spectrum of possibilities within the dynamic AI training dataset market.

Anticipating Future Trends in the Global AI Training Dataset Market:

Anticipating future trends in the global AI training dataset market is crucial in understanding the evolving dynamics of the industry. As AI continues to permeate diverse sectors, the demand for high-quality and tailored datasets is expected to soar. This anticipated growth is poised to be fueled by advancements in AI technologies, coupled with an increasing emphasis on data quality, privacy, and ethical considerations. Moreover, collaborations between industry players and academia are likely to drive innovation and the development of more sophisticated training datasets, catering to the complex requirements of AI and ML models. As the market continues to evolve, businesses must remain proactive in adapting to emerging trends, leveraging the potential of AI training datasets to foster innovation and drive sustainable growth in the ever-expanding AI landscape.

This report offers comprehensive insights into the Global AI Training Dataset Market, aiming to answer the following pivotal inquiries:

1. What are the expected dimensions and expansion pace of the market?

The market is anticipated to expand from $1.8 billion in 2022 to $6.9 billion in 2028, exhibiting a 25.4% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) throughout the projected timeframe.

2. What are the primary catalysts behind the market's expansion?

The market's growth is propelled by factors such as the increasing integration of AI solutions within business operations and the rising demand for the analysis of extensive and intricate datasets.

3. Which sectors are included in the market analysis?

The market analysis encompasses segmentation based on type, end user, and geographical region within the AI training dataset market.

4. Which segment is projected to hold the market lead by the end of 2028, based on type?

The text segment is expected to be the dominant force in the market by the conclusion of 2028, categorized by type.

5. Which geographical area exhibits the most significant market share in the industry?

North America commands the highest market share in the sector, in terms of region.

Some of the Key Market Players Are:

AMAZON WEB SERVICES INC.

APPEN CORP.

COGITO TECH LLC

DEEP VISION DATA

GLOBOSE TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS PVT LTD

GOOGLE LLC

LIONBRIDGE TECHNOLOGIES LLC.

MICROSOFT CORP.

SCALE AI INC.

SAMASOURCE IMPACT SOURCING INC.

ALEGION INC.

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DUBLIN, Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Growth Opportunities in Global Marine Coatings" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This research focuses on the impact of the supply chain, sustainability, product innovation, and digitalization on the global marine coatings market to evaluate its potential.

The analysis covers anticorrosion and antifouling marine coatings for new shipbuilding and maintenance activities to evaluate the demand for the global market. Discussions include an assessment of the current status and future potential of the global marine coatings market. The analysis considers marine coating-generated volume shipments and revenues from 2019 to 2029 and records revenues at the manufacturer level.

Ships and boats require highly specific and durable coatings for application on both above and below waterline components. In this study, these products are collectively referred to as marine coatings.

The major vessel types are large vessels (cargo, passenger, and naval), leisure boats (yachts, small ferries, and other pleasure crafts), and fishing vessels. Major chemistries include epoxy, polyurethane, alkyd, and others for anti-corrosion coatings; and acrylates and silicones & fluorosilicones for antifouling coatings.

Customers select coatings based on a variety of application requirements such as corrosion resistance, resistance to fuels and other chemicals, stability under various temperature ranges and pressure conditions, resistance to humidity, and resistance to biofouling. Coating formulations must be UV resistant with durable color retention for above the waterline exterior applications and superior corrosion and chemical resistant for structural applications.

Asia-Pacific is the largest market with huge shipbuilding and maintenance bases in countries including China, South Korea, and Japan. The shipping industry in Europe also contributes significantly to the marine coatings market. The region holds more than 140 large shipyards, and about a third of these are active in the global market for large seagoing commercial vessels.

The marine coatings market is greatly impacted by megatrends such trade wars, nearshoring, and stringent environmental regulations. However, it will benefit from increasing use of advanced antifouling coatings that are priced higher than conventional coatings. The marine coatings market is highly competitive among large, global manufacturers, so the competitive environment is skewed toward these participants.

Manufacturers engage in continuous product development activities based on changes in customer needs and in the regulatory environment. By establishing long-term relationships with their customers, manufacturers try to ensure that they are equally proactive and reactive to various industry requirements.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Strategic Imperatives

Why is it Increasingly Difficult to Grow?

The Strategic Imperative

Impact of the Top 3 Strategic Imperatives on the Marine Coatings Industry

Growth Opportunities Fuel the Growth Pipeline Engine

2. Growth Opportunity Analysis

Scope of Analysis

Segmentation

Geographic Scope

Growth Metrics

Regulations

Growth Drivers

Growth Driver Analysis

Growth Restraints

Growth Restraint Analysis

Forecast Assumptions - New Shipbuilding

Forecast Assumptions - Maintenance

Revenue and Volume Forecast

Revenue and Volume Forecast Analysis

Average Price Forecast

Revenue Forecast by Vessel Type

Volume Forecast by Vessel Type

Number of Vessels by Type in Global Markets

Revenue Forecast by Coating Type

Volume Forecast by Coating Type

Revenue and Volume Forecast Analysis by Coating Type

Revenue Forecast by End Use

Volume Forecast by End Use

Revenue and Volume Forecast Analysis by Vessel and End Use

Revenue Forecast by Region

Volume Forecast by Region

Revenue and Volume Forecast Analysis by Region

Key Competitors

Value Chain

Value Chain Description

Competitive Environment

Market Share Analysis

3. Growth Opportunity Analysis - Large Vessels

Segment Characteristics and Overview - Large Vessels

Growth Metrics

Revenue and Volume Forecast

Revenue Forecast by End Use

Volume Forecast by End Use

Forecast Analysis

Revenue Forecast by Region

Volume Forecast by Region

Revenue and Volume Forecast Analysis by Region

Revenue Forecast by Coating Type

Volume Forecast by Coating Type

Revenue and Volume Forecast Analysis by Coating Type - Anticorrosion Coatings

Revenue and Volume Forecast Analysis by Coating Type - AFCs

4. Growth Opportunity Analysis - Leisure Boats

Segment Characteristics and Overview - Leisure Boats

Growth Metrics

Revenue and Volume Forecast

Revenue Forecast by End Use

Volume Forecast by End Use

Forecast Analysis

Revenue Forecast by Region

Volume Forecast by Region

Revenue and Volume Forecast Analysis by Region

Revenue Forecast by Coating Type

Volume Forecast by Coating Type

Revenue and Volume Forecast Analysis by Coating Type - Anticorrosion Coatings

Revenue and Volume Forecast Analysis by Coating Type - AFCs

5. Growth Opportunity Analysis - Fishing Vessels and Boats

Segment Characteristics and Overview - Fishing Vessels and Boats

Growth Metrics

Revenue and Volume Forecast

Revenue Forecast by End Use

Volume Forecast by End Use

Forecast Analysis

Revenue Forecast by Region

Volume Forecast by Region

Revenue and Volume Forecast Analysis by Region

Revenue Forecast by Coating Type

Volume Forecast by Coating Type

Revenue and Volume Forecast Analysis by Coating Type - Anticorrosion Coatings

Revenue and Volume Forecast Analysis by Coating Type - AFCs

6. Growth Opportunity Universe

Growth Opportunity 1: Copper-free AFCs

Growth Opportunity 2: Reduced Drag

Growth Opportunity 3: Digital Technologies

Digitalization Trends in Marine Coatings

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/3gs514

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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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HOWELL, N.J. , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GPARENCY, the premier marketplace for acquiring, underwriting, and financing commercial real estate, proudly announces the launch of its groundbreaking Leasing Division in New Jersey. Their new leasing division comes as an additional benefit added to their current membership offerings and streamlines the commercial real estate leasing process for both landlords and leasing agents.

This new approach to leasing is set to revolutionize the way landlords and leasing agents connect with potential tenants, matching every property type with its ideal occupant in any given market. GPARENCY's proprietary system ensures landlords and leasing agents can find the best tenants quickly, and gain more leads without a hefty price tag.

With GPARENCY's Leasing Division , landlords and agents gain direct access to a comprehensive pool of potential tenants. It also allows landlords and agents to see the full tenant profile before making contact, ensuring a perfect match every time.

"We're changing the way leasing is done. Now tenants specify their needs, and we find the buildings that meet their requirements. This means you can fill spaces faster and see the full picture before contacting the tenant," said Ira Zlotowitz, CEO of GPARENCY. GPARENCY's leasing division will initially focus on office, industrial, warehouse, and retail spaces in New Jersey, but plans to expand further in 2024.

To celebrate this milestone, GPARENCY is offering a unique opportunity for new members to sign up for their $99 Monthly Limited Membership during December, and enjoy membership extended until April 1, 2024 at no additional cost. This deal offers up to three additional months of membership absolutely free!

About:

GPARENCY is the smarter way to acquire, underwrite, and finance commercial real estate. With direct contact info on 150,000+ listings, a comprehensive database of over 35 million data points, and options for users to run the deal themselves, take it to their preferred broker, or let GPARENCY's processing team run it for them, GPARENCY strives to offer top-tier solutions that enable investors to navigate the real estate market with confidence and success.

Contact: GPARENCY

[email protected]

Website:

GPARENCY.com/leasing

SOURCE GPARENCY
National Insurance Brokerage Brings "Day Two" Commitment to Northeast Ohio Firm's Clients

FORT WORTH, Texas, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Higginbotham, Texas's largest independent insurance, financial and HR services firm, and one of the top firms in the country, has joined forces with Botson Insurance Group of Avon, Ohio. This move extends the Texas firm's presence across Ohio, as Higginbotham formed a similar collaboration with western Ohio's Community Insurance Group, Ltd. earlier this year.

Higginbotham is a top independent insurance, financial and HR services firm nationwide.

As Higginbotham celebrates its 75th anniversary, Chairman and CEO Rusty Reid credits careful, strategic growth for the company's long-term success. Under Reid's guidance, the company seeks partners with sterling reputations in their local markets, strong service offerings, and deep cultural affinities.

"We are thrilled to form this relationship with Botson Insurance," said Reid. "Greg Botson spent decades building his company from a one-man shop to a thriving business with a large portfolio and expertise that includes a wide range of specialty offerings. We're looking forward to bringing some of those service offerings, such as an insurance program designed specifically for landscaping contractors, to a wider customer base."

Botson Insurance Group President Greg Botson sees similar benefits in the collaboration for his company and his company's clients:

"We had reached a point where we needed more resources to continue bringing the best possible service to our clients. With Higginbotham, we get expertise in new specialty markets and we also get the firm's value-added Day Two Services, which include improved loss control, better claims service, and contract review."

Reid explained Higginbotham's Day Two Services, which are designed to maintain a positive, responsive relationship between brokers and clients:

"We build a customized insurance plan to fit your needs, but that's just the beginning. Unlike some brokers who only come around at renewal, your Higginbotham team will stand by your side from day two through day 365, helping you get the most out of your coverage throughout the life of your policy."

"The collaboration with Higginbotham is going so much better than we ever thought possible," concluded Botson. "They have been the perfect fit for our agency, caring about their customers as much as we do, and giving our team members the opportunity to join a top-flight employee ownership plan. And with Higginbotham taking over so much of the back-office work, we get to spend more time strengthening our client relationships and bringing in new customers, which is what we love doing the most."

ABOUT BOTSON INSURANCE GROUP

Botson Insurance Group is a client-focused, multi-line independent insurance agency located in Avon, Ohio. The Botson team strives to provide better protection, better connection and better value for their business and individual clients. The team works hard each day to support clients, building long-term relationships while providing professional advice and peace of mind. For a business needing specialty property/casualty coverage or group benefits, or for an individual needing personal or life insurance, the Botson Insurance Group will go the extra mile to provide exceptional client service and more value.

Visit botsoninsurancegroup.com for more information.

ABOUT HIGGINBOTHAM

Employee owned and customer inspired, Higginbotham is a single source solution for insurance, financial and HR services. The firm was established in 1948 and ranks by revenue as the nation's 21st largest independent insurance firm. Serving thousands of businesses and individuals through locations coast-to-coast, Higginbotham's approach to finding insurance, employee benefit and risk management solutions is more individual and less institutional. By understanding customer priorities, eliminating inefficiencies and committing to transparency, Higginbotham is a place that leads with values so value leads.

Visit higginbotham.com for more information.

SOURCE Higginbotham
The global hydrogen storage market is driven by an increase in demand for low-emission fuel. The vision of a hydrogen-powered future comes closer to reality as investments pour into research, infrastructure, and technology development. In essence, the escalating demand for hydrogen underscores its potential in reshaping the global energy landscape, marrying sustainability with efficiency in the pursuit of a greener future.

WILMINGTON, Del., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Hydrogen Storage Market By Types (Cylinder, Merchant/Bulk, On-Site, On-Board), By Storage (Material, Physical), By End-Use Industry (Chemical, Oil Refineries, Automotive And Transportation, Metalworking, Others): Global Opportunity Analysis And Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the hydrogen storage market was valued at $2.8 billion in 2022 and is estimated to reach $8.6 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 12.7% from 2023 to 2032.

Request PDF Brochure: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/123264

Prime determinants of growth

The global hydrogen storage market is driven by robust demand from various end use sectors. Hydrogen is indispensable in the oil refining industry, particularly in hydrocracking and desulfurization processes. Refineries have increased their consumption of hydrogen to produce ultra-low sulfur diesel as regulations have tightened globally on the sulfur content in fuels. The production of ammonia through the Haber-Bosch process is one of the largest consumers of hydrogen. Ammonia, a primary component for fertilizers, is critical for global agriculture. The need for ammonia and, by extension, hydrogen, also surges as the global population grows and the demand for food rises. Hydrogen is a key ingredient in producing methanol, which serves as a foundational chemical for various products, from plastics to paints.

Traditional steelmaking processes involve coal, releasing vast amounts of CO2. Companies have now explored hydrogen-based steel production methods, where hydrogen replaces coking coal, leading to water vapor instead of CO2 emissions. Such initiatives, though in nascent stages, could dramatically elevate hydrogen demand in the future. The drive toward a more sustainable energy future has positioned hydrogen as a critical element in the energy transition. Hydrogen storage, given its vital role in the wider deployment of hydrogen, has seen increased attention not just from the private sector, but also from governmental bodies globally. Governments, especially in regions such as Europe, North America, and parts of Asia, have been allocating funds toward research on advanced hydrogen storage methods. From high-capacity metal hydrides to innovative sorption techniques, public funds drive innovation in this sector. However, high storage costs may restrain the growth of the hydrogen storage market.

Report coverage & details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20232032 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2022 $2.8 billion Market Size in 2032 $8.6 billion CAGR 12.7 % No. of Pages in Report 270 Segments covered Types, storage, end-use industry, and region. Drivers Increased demand for low-emission fuel

Increased demand from various industries Opportunities Development of low weight hydrogen storage tanks Restraints High cost of composite material-based tanks

The cylinder segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period.

On the basis of type, the cylinder segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, contributing to three-seventh of the global hydrogen storage market revenue. The growth in interest in green energy solutions has led to a surge in demand for cylinder hydrogen storage, a method viewed by many as a vital component in the transition to a more sustainable energy future. Hydrogen, often hailed as the fuel of the future, finds itself in the spotlight due to its high energy content and clean-burning properties, producing only water as a byproduct with the world aggressively moving away from fossil fuels. Consequently, effective storage and transport mechanisms for hydrogen have become increasingly crucial, with compressed hydrogen cylinders emerging as a prevalent choice for several reasons.

First, they offer a degree of portability unparalleled by many other storage methods, allowing for easy transport and exchange, and facilitating its distribution across diverse sectors and locations. Furthermore, the technology underpinning this form of storage is mature and proven, having been employed in various capacities over the years, thus offering reliability and a degree of familiarity that new technologies may lack. Moreover, the versatility of cylinder storage, adaptable to a multitude of applications ranging from vehicular fueling to backup power sources, makes it an attractive choice for businesses and governments alike. Concurrently, there is an industry-wide push for regularizing safety protocols, ensuring that as cylinder usage grows, so does the commitment to safe handling, storage, and transportation.

Procure Complete Report (270 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures) @

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The physical segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period.

On the basis of storage, the physical segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, contributing to more than five-seventh of the global hydrogen storage market revenue. Hydrogen is poised to play a significant role in a diverse array of sectors, from transportation to power generation with its potential to be a clean, versatile energy carrier. As such, effective, efficient, and scalable storage solutions are crucial for the broader integration of hydrogen into our energy systems. Compressed hydrogen storage, one of the primary physical methods, leverages mature technology, with tanks designed to handle pressures up to 700 bar. It is the go-to choose for many hydrogen-powered vehicles, with research focusing on developing lighter and stronger composite materials to increase the energy-to-weight ratio of storage systems.

However, cryogenic or liquid hydrogen storage has gained traction with an ever-growing demand for longer operational durations, especially in sectors such as aviation and shipping. Storing hydrogen in its liquid state achieves a higher volumetric energy density, which can potentially lead to extended ranges. The growth in demand has increased investments in infrastructure, R&D, aiming to optimize storage capacities, reduce costs, and enhance safety protocols. The demand for scalable physical storage solutions is expected to undoubtedly intensify as industries shift toward hydrogen-fueled operations, ensuring that these solutions evolve in tandem with demand is projected to be pivotal in solidifying the place of hydrogen in the future energy landscape.

The chemical segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period.

On the basis of end-use industry, the chemical segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, contributing to more than three-eighths of the global hydrogen storage market revenue. The global chemical industry, central to numerous facets of the modern economy, has experienced an unprecedented uptick in the demand for hydrogen storage. The role of hydrogen as both a reactant and a potential energy vector becomes more pronounced as the sector expands and adapts to evolving technological and environmental paradigms. Key processes such as hydrocracking, ammonia synthesis, methanol production, and desulfurization rely heavily on a steady hydrogen supply. The growth in these areas, combined with an industry-wide transition toward greener practices, has resulted in a pressing need for efficient and scalable hydrogen storage solutions.

Simultaneously, there is a pivot toward 'green' hydrogen produced using renewable energy sources as sustainability and carbon-neutral goals become more central to industry practices. This shift not only underscores the importance of hydrogen but also poses new challenges and opportunities in its storage. The traditional methods, which predominantly involve high-pressure gas storage and cryogenic liquid storage, are being evaluated in tandem with emerging solutions to accommodate the surge in demand.

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https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/hydrogen-storage-market/purchase-options

Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2032

On the basis of region, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for more than three-seventh of the global hydrogen storage market, and is projected to register the highest CAGR of 14.2% during the forecast period. Asia-Pacific region, a robust confluence of policy directives, industrial growth, and technological advancements has propelled a pronounced growth in the demand for hydrogen storage solutions. Japan has positioned itself as a front-runner in the global hydrogen economy. Their strategy lays out plans for the importation, storage, and utilization of hydrogen as a primary energy source. Many sectors, from steel production to petrochemicals, have explored hydrogen as an alternative fuel with the growth in emphasis on decarbonizing heavy industries. This drives the need for large-scale, reliable hydrogen storage solutions.

The introduction of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) in the region, especially in countries such as Japan and South Korea, has driven the need for hydrogen refueling stations, which, in turn, require efficient storage solutions. The Asia-Pacific region, with its combination of policy support, technological innovation, and market potential, is poised to be a major hub for the growth of the hydrogen economy and its associated storage needs in the coming years.

Leading Market Players: -

AIR LIQUIDE

LINDE PLC

WORTHINGTON INDUSTRIES INC.

LUXFER HOLDINGS PLC

HEXAGON COMPOSITES ASA

CHART INDUSTRIES, INC.

INOXCVA

HBANK TECHNOLOGIES INC.

PRAGMA INDUSTRIES

STEELHEAD COMPOSITES, INC.

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global hydrogen storage market. These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario.

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Blue Hydrogen Market: Global Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2031

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SOURCE Allied Market Research
GUANGZHOU, China, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- From December 3 to 5, 2023, the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the Australia China Friendship and Exchange Association, the People's Government of Guangdong Province and the World Leadership Alliance - Club de Madrid jointly organized the 2023 Imperial Springs International Forum (ISIF) at the Imperial Springs International Conference Center, Guangzhou, China. Under the theme of Multilateralism: More Exchanges, Greater Inclusiveness and Cooperation, the Forum addressed pressing challenges for global Cooperation.

More than 130 guests from political, academic, and business circles in over 40 countries, including over 30 former heads of state, heads of government, and leaders of international organizations, over 60 internationally-renowned experts and scholars and representatives of diplomatic missions, attended the Forum.

During the 2023 Imperial Springs International Forum, participants had in-depth discussions on a number of topics, including the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, prospects for the global economy, traditional and non-traditional challenges and solutions, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable

Development and the need for climate action, people-to-people exchanges, and the future of multilateralism and global governance reform. The 2023 Imperial Springs International Forum clearly noted that all should overcome fragmentation through exchanges, resolve antagonism through inclusiveness, and achieve a common future through cooperation. All should work together to tackle global risks and challenges, and create a brighter future for the world.

The Forum has called for multilateralism to address global challenges. All need to firmly uphold the authority and central role of the United Nations, embrace the UN Charter as the basis for international relations, and adhere to the concept of global governance based on dialogue, consultations, joint development and shared interests. International and regional organizations as well as multilateral cooperation mechanisms should align efforts to strengthen multilateralism and be builders of world peace and contributors to global development.

The world has entered a period of comprehensive digital transformation.

Technological innovation remains a global strategic priority and a leading force for development based on innovation-driven productivity. The Forum called on countries to invigorate the potential of cooperation in traditional fields, expand the vitality of cooperation in new fields such as artificial intelligence and digitalization, promote the deep integration of the real and digital economies, and give full play to the key role of science and technology in solving global crises.

The attending guests unanimously agreed that the foundation of friendly cooperation among all countries in the world lies in the people. All should continue to give full play to the unique and important role of people-to-people diplomacy in communicating with the world, deepening understanding, enhancing mutual trust, forging consensus, and promoting cooperation.

SOURCE The 2023 Imperial Springs International Forum
New Bill Would Implement Reforms to Protect Consumers

TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Predatory towing practices in Florida have long been a source of frustration and anger for residents and visitors alike. The state has gained notoriety for towing companies that seem to prey on unsuspecting vehicle owners, often engaging in questionable tactics to maximize their profits. This issue has prompted numerous complaints, legal battles, and calls for reform to protect consumers from the clutches of unscrupulous towing operators. The National Insurance Crime Bureau, the nation's leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to combatting and preventing insurance crime, is helping lead the way to combat these predatory towing practices in the Sunshine State and recently took part in a transportation committee hearing in the Florida House of Representatives focused on this issue.

"Once a vehicle is towed, the financial burden on the owner can be substantial," said Eric De Campos, Director of Strategy, Policy and Government Affairs for the National Insurance Crime Bureau. "Towing fees, storage fees, and administrative charges quickly accumulate, creating a financial strain on individuals who have had their vehicle towed without their consent. These fees are often disproportionately high and may not accurately reflect the cost of the towing service. Fee transparency is a critical way to address this issue. Without a fee schedule in place and accessible to consumers, unscrupulous towers can charge tens of thousands of dollars for routine tows or simply for sweeping glass and vehicle fluid from the ground and billing for a hazmat cleanup."

Insurers Combat Predatory Towing Practices in Florida - New Bill Would Implement Reforms to Protect Consumers Post this

The lack of clear rate sheets and conspicuous signage is another common complaint. Florida law requires property owners to display signs that provide clear information about parking restrictions and the potential for towing. However, some towing companies have been accused of either placing signs in inconspicuous locations or not providing adequate information to vehicle owners about the consequences of parking in a particular area. This lack of transparency can result in individuals unwittingly parking in areas where towing is enforced, only to return and find their vehicle gone.

"In addition, consumers need to know upfront what to expect in terms of towing and storage fees," De Campos said. "That is why it is important to require towers to provide their rate sheets to consumers upon request and post signage at their places of business that identify all applicable fees. This is a practice done in other states like Kentucky and could be implemented in Florida as a consumer protection against surprise or inflated fees."

In response to these concerns, there are efforts underway to regulate the towing industry in Florida more effectively. Advocates for consumer rights and fair business practices have called for stricter oversight, increased transparency, and clearer regulations regarding towing practices. Florida State Representative Melony M. Bell (R- Fort Meade) is currently sponsoring legislation (HB 179) that would address several of these issues. "There is a real need for comprehensive reform to protect consumers from unfair and exploitative practices. Until meaningful reform is enacted, individuals in Florida will remain vulnerable to the pitfalls of predatory towing, with the potential for financial hardship and emotional distress looming over every parking decision," said Rep. Bell.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL INSURANCE CRIME BUREAU: Headquartered in Des Plaines, Ill., the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) is the nation's leading not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to combatting and preventing insurance crime through Intelligence, Analytics, and Operations; Education and Crime Prevention; and Strategy, Policy, and Advocacy. NICB membership includes more than 1,200 property-casualty insurance companies, vehicle rental companies, auto auctions, vehicle finance companies and self-insured organizations. NICB member companies wrote over $582 billion in insurance premiums in 2021, or more than 82% of the nation's property-casualty insurance. That includes more than 96% of the nation's personal auto insurance. To learn more, visit www.nicb.org

SOURCE National Insurance Crime Bureau
Terrorist financing, sanctions screening, and artificial intelligence modeling will be top concerns for AML-regulated companies

LONDON and NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, ComplyAdvantage announced the four trends it believes will shape the financial crime landscape in 2024. Following conversations with regulators, industry leaders, and innovative financial institutions worldwide, the company's team of regulatory affairs experts predict that the next 12 months will be defined by significant challenges posed by technology and international turmoil.

Rooting out terrorist financing will drive greater scrutiny of transaction flows and alternative payment mechanisms Post this Vatsa Narasimha, CEO of ComplyAdvantage

"As 2023 draws to a close, financial crime risk professionals are already contending with increasing geopolitical turmoil, economic volatility, and rapidly changing criminal behavior. Next year, with more than 40 national elections, a growing focus on terrorist financing, and continued technological development, these issues will come to a head. However, there is a huge opportunity to bring together disparate data and what otherwise might be weak risk signals to identify financial crime patterns that cut across these challenges. Advancements in technology, such as machine learning, allow us to use big data in this way. I expect to see lots of exciting innovations in this space through 2024," said Vatsa Narasimha, CEO, ComplyAdvantage.

Trend #1 - Rooting out terrorist financing will drive greater scrutiny of transaction flows and alternative payment mechanisms

The war in Gaza, ongoing unrest in Nigeria, coups in West and Central Africa, and the military junta in Myanmar demonstrate that watchlists aren't enough to cut off funding for terrorists and uprisings. More needs to be done to identify and stop the financing pipelines that are supporting violent and repressive regimes around the globe. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the United Nations have identified cryptocurrencies and crowdfunding platforms as key sectors terrorists use to raise money, increasing the likelihood of regulatory oversight in the new year.

"The crowdfunding sector has created a fast and easy way for members of the public to raise money for everything from worthy causes to medical treatments and dream vacations. Unfortunately, these same platforms are also being used to channel money to some of the biggest terrorist organizations around the globe. Tech and financial services companies need to step up their efforts to accurately identify their customers and confirm where their money is really going," said Alia Mahmud, Global Regulatory Affairs Practice Lead for ComplyAdvantage.

Trend #2 - AI will move sanctions enforcement beyond watchlist screening to identify risk signals in the sanctioned individual's network

Sanctions are one of the best tools governments have to deter financial bad actors, but enforcement needs to move beyond watchlist screening to implement enforcement based on connected risk signals. With ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, policymakers will re-examine the efficacy of their sanctions programs to increase the pressure on persons and entities connected to sanctioned officials who may be enabling them to evade restrictions. By looking at risk data points collectively - identity, business associations, transaction activity - banks and other financial institutions can identify a strong risk signal of suspicious activity. Solving financial crime isn't just a screening problem; it is a network problem, and regulators will expect companies to leverage new technologies to treat it as such.

"With unlimited time and resources, financial institutions could uncover any and all risky connections a sanctioned person has. But that's not realistic. Artificial intelligence (AI) combined with rich data, graph analytics, and oversight has the potential to create a defense network that would give sanctions the teeth to cut off the money that funds terrorists, wars, human trafficking, and other crimes," continued Mahmud.

Trend #3 - Discussion about AI will shift to managing bias, modeling, and transparency

The benefits AI brings to fraud and AML risk detection were such a focus in 2023 that adoption has grown significantly. As this continues through 2024, the conversation will shift to how and where these models are used, emphasizing training and transparency.

"As we head into 2024, the question is no longer if companies invest in AI, but what kinds of skills their analysts need to ensure that the models they use are effective and that they can justify decisions that they make to auditors," said Iain Armstrong, Regulatory Affairs Practice Lead for ComplyAdvantage. "Key skillsets such as data preprocessing, model performance monitoring and optimization, and experience in automated decisioning strategies will be in demand. Staff in existing anti-financial crime roles will benefit massively from gaining a base-level understanding of machine learning and AI. Companies that invest in staff training in this area will reap the dividends."

Trend #4 - In the fight against fraud, there will be increasing demand for technology companies to stop fraud at the source

While financial Institutions have a clear obligation to protect their customers from financial scams, including educating them about the latest fraud tactics, implementing robust fraud detection systems, and providing timely communication in the event of a scam, the burden of combating AI-powered scams should not rest solely on banks. A study by UK Finance found that 61% of all authorized pushed payment (APP) fraud was connected to Meta (owner of Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram). As APP continues to grow, consumers will expect tech companies to provide safeguards at the source of most scams. This is why the experts at ComplyAdvantage think that there will be increased pressure in the coming year - from consumers and regulators - for technology companies to take a greater role in policing the activities on their platforms.

"Platforms provided by big tech and telecoms companies often serve as the initial point of contact between fraudsters and victims, so those companies also have a responsibility to do everything they can to stop scams at the source," said Armstrong. "We think there should be an increased focus on tech companies working with financial institutions to identify scams, develop more effective fraud detection tools, and implement stricter policies to prevent the spread of fraudulent content on their platforms. Any legislation around fraud and the application of AI should take this into account."

For more information on these issues and others, visit the ComplyAdvantage blog.

About ComplyAdvantage

ComplyAdvantage is the financial industry's leading source of AI-driven financial crime risk data and fraud detection technology. ComplyAdvantage's mission is to neutralize the risk of money laundering, terrorist financing, corruption, and other financial crime. More than 1000 enterprises in 75 countries rely on ComplyAdvantage to understand the risk of who they're doing business with through the world's only global, real-time database of people and companies. The company identifies thousands of risk events daily from millions of structured and unstructured data points.

ComplyAdvantage has four global hubs in New York, London, Singapore, and Cluj-Napoca and is backed by Goldman Sachs, Ontario Teachers, Index Ventures, and Balderton Capital. Learn more at complyadvantage.com .

SOURCE ComplyAdvantage
BOSTON, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Corbett Brands is thrilled to announce "The Corbett Hub," an exclusive, subscription-free MLS platform transforming commercial real estate and business brokering in New England, New York, Southern Florida, and the Greater San Diego area. As an invitation-only network, the Corbett Hub connects elite brokers and industry leaders, setting a new benchmark in the field.

With a cumulative 200+ years of experience and thousands of deals, Corbett Hub's founding members pave the way in structuring any deal to best represent client interests. Notable members include Todd Smith ( Corbett Restaurant Group ), Bob Flynn ( United Brokers Group ), Marty Bloom, James Conway ( Conway Commercial ), Chris DiGuiseppe ( Realty Partners Northeast ), and Joe Levanto ( CRE Brokerage ).

Member Benefits:

No Subscription Fee: Post listings for free and view businesses and properties for sale or lease.

Post listings for free and view businesses and properties for sale or lease. Expanded Listing Reach: Benefit from the multi-state marketing power of the Hub network.

Benefit from the multi-state marketing power of the Hub network. Elite Network: Connect with a vetted network of Commercial Real Estate & Business Brokers.

Connect with a vetted network of Commercial Real Estate & Business Brokers. Generous Fee Splits: Enjoy above-industry-average sharing percentages of referral fees and commission splits. Benefit from a generous split on business valuation fees.

Enjoy above-industry-average sharing percentages of referral fees and commission splits. Benefit from a generous split on business valuation fees. Capital Access: Leverage exclusive lending affiliations for financial support from partnerships with Celtic Bank and Live Oak Bank , prominent SBA 7(a) Lenders.

Key Offerings:

Business Valuations: Expert third-party business valuations and appraisals, including Broker Opinion of Value and Business Appraisals authored by credentialed experts.

Expert third-party business valuations and appraisals, including Broker Opinion of Value and Business Appraisals authored by credentialed experts. Aggregated Data: Access to unpublished sales, rent data, and deal information.

Access to unpublished sales, rent data, and deal information. 1031 Exchanges and Sale & Lease Backs: Navigate complex processes with expert guidance to sell a business and exchange proceeds for a new purchase while avoiding potential pitfalls.

Navigate complex processes with expert guidance to sell a business and exchange proceeds for a new purchase while avoiding potential pitfalls. Professional Referrals: Receive referrals to experienced design and architectural firms for partial build-outs or complete renovations, CPAs, attorneys, security system experts, and more.

The Corbett Hub offers an innovative co-brokering option that paves the way for smoother, less stressful transactions. Brokers can leverage the Hub's powerhouse of experience and connections to provide clients with comprehensive support throughout the transaction. To join the exclusive network and initiate the vetting process, visit CorbettHub.com/member-request .

SOURCE Corbett Brands
PITTSBURGH, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- "I wanted to create a specially designed plate that would help keep foods at the desired temperature while eating," said an inventor, from Johnstown, Ohio, "so I invented the BLUE PLATE. My design enables you to take your time while eating and it could help to prevent food waste associated with food getting cold."

The patent-pending invention provides an effective means of controlling the temperature of a dinner plate. In doing so, it would keep food items at the appropriate temperature while eating. As a result, it prevents food from getting cold and it eliminates the need to rush or reheat food. The invention features a practical and adjustable design that is easy to use so it is ideal for households, restaurants, etc. Additionally, it is producible in design variations.

The original design was submitted to the Columbus sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 22-CLM-627, InventHelp, 100 Beecham Drive, Suite 110, Pittsburgh, PA 15205-9801, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.

SOURCE InventHelp
This year marks the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping's proposal to build a community of shared future for mankind. In order to comprehensively introduce the ideological connotation and vivid practice of building a global community of shared future, enhance the understanding of the international community, forge a broad consensus, and better build a global community of shared future hand in hand with other countries, the Chinese government issued a white paper titled "A Global Community of Shared Future: China's Proposals and Actions" on September 26. This is an important document that systematically elaborates the background, core principles, theoretical origin and vivid practice of the concept of building a global community of shared future.

Creating a roadmap for building a community of shared future for mankind

The white paper reflects the important results of the study of Xi Jinping's diplomatic thought. Building a global community of shared future is the core concept of Xi Jinping's diplomatic thought and the overall goal of great power diplomacy with Chinese characteristics. The main part of the white paper begins with the section "Humanity at a Crossroads", which analyzes the historical background of the proposal, and points out that interdependence is the general trend of history, and global challenges require global responses. The white paper highlights the distinctive propositions of the concept of building a global community of shared future with regard to international relations, global governance, international cooperation and the vision of the future, and reveals the concept's innovation of traditional international relations theories. The white paper also presents a roadmap for promoting the building of a global community of shared future, highlighting the concepts strong practical significance.

The White Paper demonstrates the pragmatic actions and positive results of building a global community of shared future. China is not only an initiator, but also an activist. The white paper comprehensively summarizes China's major initiatives and achievements in promoting the high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative, implementing the Three Global Initiatives, acting together with more countries and regions, and injecting strong impetus into international cooperation in various fields.These major initiatives and achievements demonstrate China's strength in contributing to the building of a global community of shared future, and add to the international community's confidence and hope in building a global community of shared future.

The White Paper calls on all countries of the world to join hands to promote the building of a global community of shared future. The road ahead, though tortuous, is full of hope. The concept of a global community of shared future has been put forward and practiced, and a broad consensus of solidarity and cooperation has been forged at the international level. The simultaneous release of the White Paper in eight languages, including Chinese, English, French, Russian, German, Spanish, Arabic and Japanese, has facilitated the direct and timely understanding of the common cause of building a global community of shared future by billions of people around the globe with different cultures and historical backgrounds, and is bound to have a good international effect, which will be conducive to the pooling of strong synergies for building a global community of shared future and leading the international community to create a better future.

Far-reaching significance for the promotion of world peace and development

The building of a global community of shared future is in line with the trend of development and progress of the times, responds to the universal aspirations of the people of all countries, brings benefits to the people of the world, and is a precious solution that China has contributed to the world in the midst of chaos and turmoil, which is of far-reaching significance in safeguarding world peace, promoting common development and advancing the progress of mankind.

We will provide Chinese proposals to answer the questions of the world and the questions of the times. At present, interconnections and interdependence among countries are more frequent and closer than ever before, and the historical trend of peace, development, and win-win cooperation is unstoppable. However, at the same time, the deep-rooted contradictions in global development have been highlighted, anti-globalization, protectionism and xenophobic tendencies have intensified, bullying and zero-sum games and other hegemonic and bullying practices have caused serious harm, and non-traditional security threats such as climate change and cybersecurity have continued to spread. The building of a global community of shared future, which contains the essence of traditional Chinese culture, draws on the achievements of outstanding human civilizations, and matches the ultimate pursuit of peace and development by different civilizations, is the right way on earth that is committed to leading the world forward and pushing the wheels of history towards a bright future.

Advanced ideas reflect extraordinary undertakings, and scientific concepts lead to great practices. Building a global community of shared future is in the common interest of Chinese people and people of the world. Regardless of how the international conditions change, China will steadfastly pursue an independent foreign policy of peace and is committed to expanding the points of convergence of its interests with those of other countries. With a more far-sighted vision, more open-mindedness and more tolerance, China will actively participate in the reform and construction of the global governance system, and jointly promote the realization of the beautiful vision of building a global community of shared future.

Contributed by Chen Bo, Secretary General at the Research Center of Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy, and President of the China Institute of International Studies.

Editor: JYZ
PITTSBURGH, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- "I thought there could be a better way to assist guests, delivery drivers or first responders when identifying the premises location," said an inventor, from Lawrence, Mass., "so I invented THE LIGHTING IDEA. My design reduces delays and it could also be used for outdoor premises monitoring."

The patent-pending invention provides a smart design for an illuminated address number panel. In doing so, it enables users to easily identity the premises location. As a result, it could improve the timeliness and safety for guests, deliveries, or emergency public safety responses. The invention features an effective design that is easy to install and use so it is ideal for households.

The original design was submitted to the Boston sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 22-BKC-120, InventHelp, 100 Beecham Drive, Suite 110, Pittsburgh, PA 15205-9801, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.

SOURCE InventHelp
KERRVILLE, Texas, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- James Avery Artisan Jewelry, a family-owned jewelry retailer based in Texas, is pleased to announce the opening of its new store in Houston. The new store will be located at 660 Meyerland Plaza, Houston, Texas 77096  directly off the South 610 Loop and Beechnut Street.

James Avery Retail Associate welcomes Customer in store.

"We are excited to open a new store in the continually growing Houston metroplex," said James Avery Chief Product and Revenue Officer Karina Dolgin. "Our Meyerland Plaza store is conveniently located in the South Loop 610 corridor  a vibrant and well-known neighborhood in Houston. By adding this location, we are giving customers access to a James Avery store closer to their homes."

The new store opens today, and visitors are invited to register for a gift card giveaway. During the grand opening celebration on Saturday, December 9, there will be drawings for 30 James Avery gift cards valued at $50, $100 and $500. Additionally, the first 100 guests will receive a gift with purchase.

"We invite everyone in the community to come visit our new store and shop the new Christmas collection," said Store Manager Amy Birney. "We are committed to providing customers with an exceptional in-store experience and offer many complimentary services like jewelry polishing and cleaning as well as soldering charms on to our customers' bracelets."

The store's hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 12 to 6 p.m. Store Manager Amy Birney and her team are ready to welcome customers to shop in the new store or use the Curbside Pickup or Buy Online, Pickup in Store options at JamesAvery.com.

About James Avery Artisan Jewelry James Avery is a vertically integrated, family-owned company located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. We offer finely crafted jewelry designs for men and women in sterling silver, 14K and 18K gold, bronze and gemstones. James Avery jewelry is designed in the Texas Hill Country, with more than 90 percent of our pieces crafted in Kerrville, Comfort, Hondo and Corpus Christi, Texas using the finest materials sourced worldwide. We are a multi-channel retailer with over 120 James Avery stores in four states. Our jewelry is also available at JamesAvery.com, over 250 Dillard's locations and at Dillards.com and at 37 Von Maur locations and VonMaur.com. You can also find our designs at airport stores in Austin, Houston and Nashville, as well as select Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) locations.

Follow us @jamesavery on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, as well as @jamesaveryjewelry on TikTok for new releases, trends and behind the scenes.

Drawing Details

Odds of winning depend on total number of entries received. Thirty James Avery gift cards will be awarded: 24 $50 gift cards, three $100 gift cards, and three $500 gift cards. Entries accepted December 6 through December 9. Hourly drawings on December 9 between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. during the grand opening celebration at the Meyerland Plaza James Avery Artisan Jewelry store. No purchase necessary. Must be at least 13 years old to enter. Only one entry per person, per day. Winners not eligible to win a subsequent gift card in the same promotion. Winners need not be present to win; however, if prize is not claimed within 14 days of drawing, prize will be awarded to an alternate winner. Associates and immediate family members not eligible for this gift promotion

SOURCE James Avery Artisan Jewelry
A Contract Signing Ceremony Marks the Commencement of the Strategic Investment into Avant-Garde Technological Advancement

MIAMI, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Karisma Hotels & Resorts, a leading company in hospitality development, operation, and management, proudly announces a groundbreaking agreement with Salesforce, the world's largest company in customer relationship management (CRM) and AI, and TELMEX, the largest telecommunications and information technology solutions company in Mexico. This innovative alliance, marked by a symbolic contract signing ceremony on Dec. 5, 2023 at Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya, signifies a significant step forward in technological advancement for the hospitality industry.

Contract signing ceremony at Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya

"Partnering with Salesforce and TELMEX is a momentous occasion for Karisma Hotels & Resorts," says Esteban Velasquez, CEO Karisma Hotels & Resorts. "We embark on a journey to revolutionize the hospitality sector with our shared commitment to excellence and innovation. This investment by Karisma will undoubtedly result in a seamless and personalized experience for our valued clients, setting new standards in the industry."

Salesforce, acknowledged as the leading company in CRM, artificial intelligence, and data cloud, contributes its Middleware expertise to the effort, while TELMEX, renowned for implementing technological solutions through Triara and Uninet, brings its proficiency as Mexico's foremost technology provider. Karisma Hotels & Resorts, a prominent force in the hospitality sector, complements the alliance with its extensive experience in hotel operations. The strategic agreement encompasses several cutting-edge technological projects that promise to redefine the landscape of hospitality services by streamlining customer relationship management and enhancing overall communication infrastructure.

The key initiatives include the implementation of a hotel Middleware, serving as the technological communication channel for applications using MuleSoft, Salesforce's premier solution for API and application connectivity. Furthermore, the initiative introduces a unified Central Rate model, positioning Karisma Hotels & Resorts at the forefront of hotel administration and offerings. The partnership also involves the implementation of Salesforce's CRM for marketing, sales, and operations while also integrating the Salesforce Einstein solutions, the world's first CRM artificial intelligence that delivers AI-created content across every sales, service, marketing, commerce, and IT interaction at hyper-scale. The real-time data this integration provides will enable Karisma Hotels & Resorts to enhance customer engagement and adapt content dynamically within their Salesforce CRM, utilizing natural-language prompts and advanced AI capabilities to meet evolving customer information and needs seamlessly.

This partnership marks the beginning of a long-term relationship aimed at continuous improvement and innovation. The transformative projects will cover various companies within the Karisma Hotels & Resorts portfolio, including all managed and operated properties. The partnership promises a 360-degree approach, providing clients, members, and tourists with unique and personalized experiences from vacation planning to arrival.

"TELMEX is proud to stand alongside Karisma Hotels & Resorts and Salesforce in this transformative partnership," says Mauricio Alcocer Sola, Commercial Director and IT Solutions at TELMEX. "Together, we bring TELMEX extensive technological capabilities to the forefront, contributing to implementing cutting-edge solutions in the hospitality sector. This initiative reflects our collective commitment to advancing technology, and we are excited about its positive impact on the future of guest services and hotel management."

On Dec. 5th, the partners hosted a celebratory ceremony to mark the commencement of this agreement. The night unfolded with a welcome cocktail reception and words from keynote speakers and culminated in TELMEX, Salesforce, and Karisma's symbolic signing of the partnership agreement. The guest list included key executives from the hotel management, tourism, and technology industries, ensuring a comprehensive representation of stakeholders. Notable attendees included Ing. Mauricio Alcocer Sola, Commercial Director, and IT Solutions at TELMEX; Lic. Eduardo Vergara, Salesforce Principal Enterprise Architect & Hospitality Advisor for Karisma; and Lynx 9 executive, Belinda Vergara.

For further information on this innovative partnership and its transformative projects, please visit https://www.karismahotels.com.

View photos here.

About Karisma Hotels & Resorts

Karisma Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning luxury hotel collection that owns and manages an impressive portfolio of properties in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe. Property brands include Margaritaville Island Reserve by Karisma; Azul Beach Resorts by Karisma; and Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts. Properties have been honored with the industry's top accolades, including Conde Nast Traveler's "Top 30 Hotels in Cancun," World Waterpark Association "Leading Edge Award," Travel Weekly "Magellan Awards," and AAA's "Five Diamond Award" and "Four Diamond Award." Karisma Hotels & Resorts is committed to employee and community support while delivering authentic experiences to guests, receiving worldwide recognition for its compassionate and creative approach to hospitality management and product innovations.

Media Contact:

Malaika Hollis, Alliance Connection

[email protected]

SOURCE Karisma Hotels & Resorts
Consumers can enjoy time-saving, shop-at-home convenience in creating home DIY projects

LEBANON, Pa., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Weaber, a leading hardwood manufacturer for more than 80 years, is now offering direct-to-home delivery of its most popular products for the do-it-yourself segment. Prefinished Solid Oak Slats, Weathered Wall Boards, Poplar and Oak Hobby Boards and Poplar and Oak Squares. All products are made in the U.S. You can visit the Weaber online store at weaber.com.

While DIYers can be found in every age group, consumers aged 21-40 comprise 50 percent of the home improvement DIY market. (Source: Venveo, "10 Characteristics of the DIY Consumer.") These consumers are often working on home improvement while juggling work and family demands. The Weaber online store eliminates the need for these busy consumers to spend time traveling to retail outlets to find hardwood products so they have more time to work on their projects.

Weaber, a leading hardwood manufacturer, now offers home delivery of its most popular products for do-it-yourselfers. Post this

Hardwood products available through the Weaber online store are:

Prefinished Solid Oak Slats  A new product , these 1/4" X 1-1/2" X 36" slats add dimension and elegance to an interior wall with their sleek lines and architectural quality.

 A new product these 1/4" X 1-1/2" X 36" slats add dimension and elegance to an interior wall with their sleek lines and architectural quality. Weathered Wall Boards  Available in five colors that offer a rich variety of natural wood tones, these boards are colored by using an all-natural, eco-friendly process free of hazardous chemicals or solvents and low-VOC paint. They feature authentic saw marks and are reversible.

 Available in five colors that offer a rich variety of natural wood tones, these boards are colored by using an all-natural, eco-friendly process free of hazardous chemicals or solvents and low-VOC paint. They feature authentic saw marks and are reversible. Poplar and Oak Hobby Boards  Available in a variety of thicknesses, widths and lengths, these boards are ideal for completing interior DIY projects, including carpentry, trim work, furniture and more.

 Available in a variety of thicknesses, widths and lengths, these boards are ideal for completing interior DIY projects, including carpentry, trim work, furniture and more. Poplar and Oak Squares  These squares work well for detailed interior DIY projects, including carpentry, furniture making and woodworking crafts, particularly turning squares, table legs and balusters.

"Today's DIY customers rely heavily on the internet for product research and inspiration, so it makes sense to offer them the ability to buy the products they're looking for online as well," said Weaber CEO Matt Weaber. "While product selection may vary in retail stores, ordering from our online store ensures customers will be able to get the products they want and have them shipped right to their homes."

Instructional and overview videos featuring the products sold on the Weaber online store can be found on its YouTube channel, @WeaberLumber. You can also find Weaber on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok and X.

About Weaber

Founded in 1941 by Walter H. Weaber, Weaber has been family-owned and operated for three generations. From its beginning as a small local mill, Weaber has grown into one of the leading hardwood manufacturers in the U.S., specializing in flooring, wall boards, moldings and more.

Located in the heart of Pennsylvania's Appalachian Mountains, Weaber harvests locally, selectively and sustainably and believes every part of the tree is beautiful and valuable. This sacred trust drives the company to create innovative products that bring the beauty of nature indoors and enable customers to express their individuality and inspiration to its fullest measure. Weaber is third-party certified in Sustainable Forestry Initiative standards (SFI-00065).

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SOURCE Weaber
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd. (LONGi), a global leader in solar technology, today announced its new "Zero-Carbon Life Plan for Pandas" aimed at preserving biodiversity in China's Qinling Mountains. The plan includes a new partnership agreement with Shaanxi Foping National Nature Reserve and will focus on supporting panda conservation efforts at the reserve.

Jiang Dongyu, Vice President of DBG, LONGi,unveiled the "Zero-carbon Life Plan for Pandas" at the Solar+ Pavilion during the COP28 in Dubai,UAE.

"As a leader in sustainable development through clean energy, LONGi is committed to exploring innovative ways we can use our technology to support environmental protection," said Li Zhenguo, Founder and President of LONGi. "This special initiative is a great example of how LONGi is collaborating with new partners to realize our vision of a zero-carbon world while also supporting conservation efforts for one of China's national treasures: the panda."

As a part of the agreement, LONGi will donate solar power plant with its latest module product of Hi-MO X6 for the nature reserve's facilities to provide clean energy for scientists and researchers in support of their important conservation efforts. The "Panda Power Plant" will harness the sun's energy to contribute to sustainable energy generation for the Foping National Nature Reserve. LONGi will also adopt its own "HiMO Panda" to show how scientists and researchers are leveraging solar power to care for the panda over the course of its life.

"We are incredibly grateful to have a new partnership with LONGi to begin transforming our national nature reserve to become carbon neutral," said Dang Gaodi, Senior Engineer at Shaanxi Foping National Nature Reserve. "This is a great example of how NGOs and the Private Sector can come together to leverage different strengths to achieve a common goal."

The "Zero-Carbon Life Plan for Pandas" also aligns with other global efforts to promote sustainable development. In particular, the "Zero-Carbon Life Plan" was created with the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals in mind, specifically the goal 15 "Life on Land," which aims to protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.

"LONGi is committed to being a leader not only in the clean energy space but also in promoting environmental protection," said Jiang Dongyu, Vice President of Distributed Business Group of LONGi. "We hope that through investments like the one we are making with the Shaanxi Foping National Nature Reserve, we can open the door to more possible partnerships with NGOs and researchers to show how solar technology can support biodiversity conservation around the world."

About LONGi

Founded in 2000, LONGi is committed to being the world's leading solar technology company, focusing on customer-driven value creation for full scenario energy transformation.

Under its mission of 'making the best of solar energy to build a green world', LONGi has dedicated itself to technology innovation and established five business sectors, covering mono silicon wafers cells and modules, commercial & industrial distributed solar solutions, green energy solutions and hydrogen equipment. The company has honed its capabilities to provide green energy and has more recently, also embraced green hydrogen products and solutions to support global zero carbon development. www.longi.com

About Shaanxi Foping National Nature Reserve

The Shaanxi Foping National Nature Reserve (FPNR) was established in 1978. The reserve is located in the northwest of Foping County, the southern foot of the middle Qinling Mountains, with a forest coverage rate of more than 98.0%, which is a forest and wildlife type reserve mainly for the protection of giant pandas. It has also been listed as the national popular science education base for teenagers and the field teaching experimental base of Shaanxi Normal University. It has carried out multi-level and multi-directional cooperation with many research units.

SOURCE LONGi
CHICAGO and SUNNYVALE, Calif., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- McDonald's Corporation and Google today announced plans for a new multi-year, global partnership to connect Google Cloud technology across thousands of its restaurants worldwide. This partnership is a significant step for McDonald's in advancing its restaurant technology platform to become the most sophisticated and productive in the industry. McDonald's plans to leverage a wide range of Google Cloud's hardware, data, and AI technologies to implement innovation faster and create even better experiences for its customers, restaurant teams, and employees.

McDonald's and Google Cloud Logo

"We see tremendous opportunity for growth in our digital business and our partnership with Google Cloud allows us to capitalize on this by leveraging our size and scale to build capabilities and implement solutions at unmatched speeds," said Brian Rice, McDonald's Executive Vice President and Global Chief Information Officer. "Connecting our restaurants worldwide to millions of datapoints across our digital ecosystem means tools get sharper, models get smarter, restaurants become easier to operate, and most importantly, the overall experience for our customers and crew gets even better."

As part of this partnership, McDonald's will roll out significant advancements to its restaurant and customer platforms  from its popular mobile app that serves as the gateway for its 150 million member-strong and quickly expanding loyalty program, to its thousands of self-service kiosks in restaurants worldwide. With a consistent approach, McDonald's expects to deploy innovations with much greater speed and agility. McDonald's will use edge computing from Google Cloud to power these new platforms, bringing information storage and high powered computing into individual restaurants.

Google Distributed Cloud, a combined hardware and software offering, is planned to be deployed to thousands of McDonald's restaurants so they can leverage both cloud-based software applications and their own software and AI solutions locally on-site, as needed. With Google Cloud edge computing capabilities, McDonald's will be able to draw new insights into how equipment is performing, enact solutions that reduce business disruptions, and diminish complexity for crew so restaurant teams can focus on delivering amazing hospitality to customers. McDonald's will be the largest global foodservice retailer to use Google Distributed Cloud's new capabilities, with plans for thousands of restaurants to begin receiving their hardware and software upgrades next year.

Through this new partnership, a dedicated Google Cloud team in Chicago will work in close proximity to McDonald's global innovation center, known as Speedee Labs. Together, they'll focus on applying generative AI across a number of key business priorities to power exciting new experiences for crew and customers, with McDonald's unmatched convenience and value.

"Through this wide-ranging partnership, Google Cloud will help McDonald's seize on new opportunities to transform its business and customer experiences, empowering restaurants worldwide with the latest technologies for near-term impact," said Thomas Kurian, Google Cloud's Chief Executive Officer. "Pairing the iconic brand, size and scale of McDonald's with Google Cloud's deep history in AI and technology innovation will redefine how this industry works and what people expect when they dine out."

About Google Cloud

Google Cloud accelerates every organization's ability to digitally transform its business and industry. We deliver enterprise-grade solutions that leverage Google's cutting-edge technology, and tools that help developers build more sustainably. Customers in more than 200 countries and territories turn to Google Cloud as their trusted partner to enable growth and solve their most critical business problems.

About McDonald's

McDonald's is the world's leading global foodservice retailer with over 40,000 locations in over 100 countries. Approximately 95% of McDonald's restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local business owners.

SOURCE Google Cloud
Bayesian optimization engine that already powers dozens of use cases at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany , now open sourced to foster adoption

Close partnership to enable the self-driving labs of tomorrow

DARMSTADT, Germany, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a leading science and technology company, and the Acceleration Consortium, based at the University of Toronto, Canada, today jointly announced that their AI-driven experimentation planner Bayesian Back End (BayBE) is now available open-source on GitHub, with an unrestricted Apache 2.0 license. The joint open-source initiative combines the Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, portfolio of use cases with the Acceleration Consortium's world-leading excellence in self-driving labs.

"The release and maintenance of open-source code for scientific discovery is imperative for the advancement of self-driving labs. This collaboration moves the needle of multi-stakeholder work in the area of self-driving labs. I am thrilled about our collaboration with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany on developing and publishing software for AI-assisted experimental planning. As society faces ever-growing challenges, we have no time for science as usual. With this software, we can revolutionize the way experiments are designed and conducted, accelerating discoveries and driving progress in ways we have never imagined before," said Alan Aspuru-Guzik, Professor of Chemistry and Computer Science at the University of Toronto, and Director of the Acceleration Consortium, which recently launched a seven-year program worth CA$ 200 million, supported by the Canada First Research Excellence Fund.

"This development is a great outcome of our focus on 'innovation powered by data and digital'. Together with our partners at the Acceleration Consortium, we continue to push productivity with digital tools such as BayBE. Our company continues to invest in digital technologies that can disrupt the healthcare, life science and electronics industries," said Laura Matz, Chief Science and Technology Officer at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. "BayBE unites several advanced technologies under one umbrella and focuses on making them useful for industrial purposes. While it already has many internal use cases, we are excited to share it with a wider community through open source. What started out as a cross-sectorial advancement can now become a cross-industrial one," Matz continued.

BayBE was built jointly across all three business sectors of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. It is a general-purpose toolbox for smart iterative experimentation with emphasis on important add-ons for chemistry and materials science. It enables a more systematic approach by providing recommendations for the next best experiment, leading to better results faster. BayBE can also act as the "brain" for automated equipment, enabling entirely closed-loop self-driving laboratories.

The traditional approach for design of experiments is largely based on intuition and experience of the experimentalist. This can lead to considerable variation between different labs and is particularly challenging for complex campaigns that aim to optimize numerous properties simultaneously. Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, faces these challenges on an every-day basis, for instance as part of experimental optimization campaigns in research, product development and operations. Artificial intelligence (AI) enables novel ways of tackling these problems and reducing the time needed and money spent as well as increasing sustainability.

The BayBE software already powers dozens of use-cases at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, for instance:

VRP ExcipientFinder : Part of the viscosity reduction platform service of the Life Science business sector of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany ; a tool to accelerate selection of viscosity reducing excipients

Part of the viscosity reduction platform service of the Life Science business sector of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, ; a tool to accelerate selection of viscosity reducing excipients BayChem : Self-service experimental planner available to everyone at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany , directly enabling our lab users

: Self-service experimental planner available to everyone at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, , directly enabling our lab users Self-driving autonomous flow chemistry at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany : closed-loop platform in the R&D of the Life Science business sector that optimizes chemical reactions fully autonomously

All Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the EMD Group website. In case you are a resident of the USA or Canada, please go to www.emdgroup.com/subscribe to register for your online, change your selection or discontinue this service.

About Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany

Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, 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 KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, generated sales of  22.2 billion in 66 countries.

The company holds the global rights to the name and trademark "Merck" internationally. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the business sectors of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, operate as MilliporeSigma in life science, EMD Serono in healthcare and EMD Electronics in electronics. Since its founding in 1668, scientific exploration and responsible entrepreneurship have been key to the company's technological and scientific advances. To this day, the founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed company.

SOURCE Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
ATLANTA, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Merit Financial Advisors ("Merit"), a Georgia-based financial advisory firm that specializes in financial planning and wealth management solutions for high-net-worth individuals and families and those navigating life transitions, announced today it has acquired ClearBridge Wealth Management ("ClearBridge"). The firm, based in Atlanta, Georgia, will expand Merit's existing presence in the region and increase assets by $300 million.

Founded by Preston Byers, CPA, CFP, ClearBridge specializes in investment management and business and financial planning for individuals, families, and business owners. Preston has more than 30 years of experience in the industry and will join Merit as Wealth Manager and Partner along with ClearBridge's operations and client support teams.

"My desire to join Merit was two-fold: first, Merit's strong back-office support team and extensive technology suite will allow me more time to connect with my clients," said Preston. "Second, the core values of our firms align, which was the primary reason for us to pursue this partnership."

"We are thrilled to welcome Preston and his team to Merit," said Kirk Wilkerson and Andy Lubben, Merit Regional Directors. "From our first meeting together, it was clear that Preston embraces a client-centric approach, which aligns with how the Merit team operates. We can't wait to see what we will achieve together in Atlanta."

This is Merit's twenty-second acquisition since taking a minority investment in December 2020 from Wealth Partners Capital Group ("WPCG") and a group of strategic investors led by HGGC's Aspire Holdings platform. In August, Merit announced its acquisition of Reis Financial Services, LLC, which added approximately $178 million in assets and expanded Merit's presence in Wisconsin.

"Preston has achieved remarkable success within the industry, largely due to his client-first mentality and commitment to providing his clients with quality wealth management solutions," said Nick Trepp, Principal at WPCG. "Preston's expertise and focus on client service complements Merit's approach, and it is exciting to watch Merit build their Atlanta presence by partnering with such a talented advisor."

The merger was finalized on December 1, 2023. Financial and legal terms of the deal were not disclosed.

About Merit Financial Advisors

Merit Financial Group, LLC, doing business as Merit Financial Advisors ("Merit"), is a national wealth management firm that supports both the independent broker-dealer and RIA models. Merit exists to enrich the lives of those they serve, and its mission is to revolutionize the client experience by building the RIA of the future. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Merit has over 40 offices throughout the U.S. and managed approximately $9 billion in assets as of September 30, 2023 ($6.4 billion in advisory, $2.36 billion in brokerage assets and $197 million in assets under advisement).

For more information, please visit www.meritfinancialadvisors.com.

Securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Merit Financial Group, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Merit Financial Group, LLC, Merit, Merit Financial Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial.

About Wealth Partners Capital Group

Wealth Partners Capital Group ("WPCG") is a financial services holding company, which invests in and partners with select leading wealth management firms. WPCG assists its partner firms by identifying and integrating like-minded registered investment advisors and financial advisors who are seeking access to expanded business capabilities, strategic growth and customized transition solutions. For more information, please visit www.wealthpcg.com.

About HGGC

HGGC is a leading middle-market investment firm based in Palo Alto, Calif. with over $6.9 billion in cumulative capital commitments. HGGC is focused on partnerships with management teams, founders and sponsors who reinvest alongside HGGC, creating a strong alignment of interests. HGGC makes investments in RIAs via its Aspire Holdings platform, which is targeting $300 million of total investment in the space. More information is available at hggc.com.

SOURCE Merit Financial Advisors
Clinical investigators complete enrollment in the 177 patient, randomized, controlled study, STAND (A Clinical Evaluation of the Micro ST ent Peripher A l Vascular Ste N t in subjects with Arterial D isease Below the Knee, NCT03477604).

WILMINGTON, Mass., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Micro Medical Solutions (MMS), an innovator in the field of microvascular intervention to improve clinical outcomes and quality of life in patients with CLI/CLTI, announced today that it has completed its U.S. pivotal clinical study enrollment evaluating the safety and effectiveness of the MicroStent System compared to the current standard of care, PTA (percutaneous transluminal angioplasty). The MicroStent System has already obtained CE Mark approval for use in the EEA.

STAND (A Clinical Evaluation of the Micro ST ent Peripher A l Vascular Ste N t in subjects with Arterial D isease Below the Knee) enrolled its final patient earlier this month marking the completion of the study. MicroStent is a vascular stent specifically designed to achieve and maintain tibioperoneal arterial patency improving blood flow and wound healing for below-the-knee amputation reduction in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) resulting from progressive peripheral artery disease (PAD).

"I would like to thank the investigators and the research teams for their dedication, participation, collaboration and tremendous effort to help this complex and difficult patient population. I'm excited to continue to provide research expertise to the company and discuss the study results when available," said lead investigator, Dr. Robert E. Beasley of Palm Vascular Centers in Miami Beach, Florida.

"CLI/CTI is the most severe clinical manifestation of PAD. We are excited to see the data unfold to further understand the impact of angiosome directed endovascular intervention and its impact on wound healing, limb salvage and patient living independence. We are warmly appreciative to our patient population that participated in the study. The study's goal has always been to demonstrate a lower amputation rate thereby, lowering the devastating mortality rate associated with limb loss," commented Rita Jacob, Vice President of Clinical Affairs.

"This is an encouraging step forward for MMS, millions of patients battling CLI every day and Clinicians treating and caring for these patients," said CEO, Gregory Sullivan. "MMS developed the MicroStent platform in response to patients' needs, and we are excited to move closer to putting MicroStent in the hands of U.S. interventionalists treating CLI."

For more about Micro Medical Solutions, visit www.micromedicalsolutions.net.

SOURCE Micro Medical Solutions
Innovative 24/7 air disinfection system combines germicidal irradiation with air circulation fans to help improve IAQ in schools.

RACINE, Wis., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Modine (NYSE: MOD), a technology and indoor air quality leader in the HVAC industry, is now offering the VidaShield UV24 Active Air Disinfection System product line to the K-12 school market. This innovative solution will further help equip schools with the necessary tools to combat airborne pathogens.

Modine is now offering the VidaShield UV24 Active Air Disinfection System product line to the K-12 school market.

VidaShield UV24 is a fast, continuous air disinfection system that combines an ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) chamber and air circulating fans with an optional overhead ceiling light, making it convenient for schools, universities and daycare centers.

"Airborne pathogens are a significant contributor to the spread of illness, which can ultimately lead to missed school days for students," said Kimberly Raduenz, Manager, Strategic Marketing for the IAQ division at Modine. "The CDC recommends adding germicidal solutions in high-risk areas to better combat pathogens. VidaShield UV24 is a solution that provides ultraviolet germicidal irradiation in the form of UV-C that is safe for occupied spaces while also being easy to install. When combined with increased ventilation and improved filtration, this product can be the missing component for enhanced indoor air quality inside schools and other educational facilities."

VidaShield UV24 helps improve IAQ by drawing in airborne pathogens and pollutants with an array of fans. Air is then passed through a MERV 6 filter where larger particulates of dust are trapped, but pathogens can pass through into a shielded chamber. A 253.7 nm UV-C bulb in the chamber neutralizes viruses, bacteria and fungi.

VidaShield UV24 helps eliminate various pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19), coronaviruses, and viruses or bacteria that cause the common cold, Influenza A, measles, mumps, Tuberculosis, pneumonia, MRSA and C Diff.

"At Modine, we live by our purpose of engineering a cleaner and healthier world," Raduenz said. "While we have a vast catalog of products that provide schools with IAQ solutions, we are always looking for ways to evolve that help schools provide safer and cleaner air for students. Offering the VidaShield UV24 product is another example of our dedication to students across the U.S."

To learn more about Modine Indoor Air Quality solutions, please visit https://www.modinehvac.com/.

About Modine

At Modine, we are Engineering a Cleaner, Healthier World. Building on more than 100 years of excellence in thermal management, we provide trusted systems and solutions that improve air quality and conserve natural resources. More than 11,000 employees are at work in every corner of the globe, delivering the solutions our customers need, where they need them. Our Climate Solutions and Performance Technologies segments support our purpose by improving air quality, reducing energy and water consumption, lowering harmful emissions and enabling cleaner running vehicles and environmentally-friendly refrigerants. Modine is a global company headquartered in Racine, Wisconsin (U.S.), with operations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. For more information about Modine, visit www.modine.com.

Media Contact: Heather Ripley (865) 977-1973 [email protected]

SOURCE Modine
A woman visits the art exhibition of "Silk Road Artists' Rendezvous" in Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province, Dec. 3, 2023. An art exhibition opened as a sideline event of the first Liangzhu Forum on Sunday in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province. The exhibition features 152 works created by 84 artists from 83 countries. (Xinhua/Huang Zongzhi)

HANGZHOU, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- An art exhibition opened as a sideline event of the first Liangzhu Forum on Sunday in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province.

The exhibition, "Silk Road Artists' Rendezvous," features 152 works created by 84 artists from 83 countries.

In late November, the artists visited various scenic locations across Zhejiang, including the Liangzhu ancient city and the West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Hangzhou, and created works inspired by their week-long tour.

Since 2009, hundreds of artists from nearly 100 countries have participated in similar "Silk Road Artists' Rendezvous" visits to China, which were organized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism several times. 

A woman visits the art exhibition of "Silk Road Artists' Rendezvous" in Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province, Dec. 3, 2023. An art exhibition opened as a sideline event of the first Liangzhu Forum on Sunday in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province. The exhibition features 152 works created by 84 artists from 83 countries. (Xinhua/Huang Zongzhi)

People visit the art exhibition of "Silk Road Artists' Rendezvous" in Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province, Dec. 3, 2023. An art exhibition opened as a sideline event of the first Liangzhu Forum on Sunday in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province. The exhibition features 152 works created by 84 artists from 83 countries. (Xinhua/Huang Zongzhi)

A woman takes photos of a painting at the art exhibition of "Silk Road Artists' Rendezvous" in Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province, Dec. 3, 2023. An art exhibition opened as a sideline event of the first Liangzhu Forum on Sunday in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province. The exhibition features 152 works created by 84 artists from 83 countries. (Xinhua/Huang Zongzhi)

Editor: JYZ
AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Mosie Baby, a pioneering at-home fertility care company, has secured FDA Class II clearance for its Mosie Baby Kit making it the first and only FDA-cleared over-the-counter kit for use in intravaginal insemination (IVI). The kit was created to support those who are unable to conceive with intercourse or for whom intercourse is not an option. Following its FDA 510k Class II clearance, Mosie Baby looks forward to expanding access to its Mosie Baby Kit which was determined to be "substantially equivalent" to a predicate device used in clinically administered intrauterine insemination (IUI).

Designed to be used with either a fresh or cryogenically frozen donor semen sample, each Mosie Baby Kit includes two patented syringes, which are specifically designed for at-home insemination, and two proprietary collection cups that were created for semen collection. Mosie Baby's syringe features a patented barrel-free tip and slit opening which optimizes transfer while minimizing waste, while its collection cup has a proprietary design that supports maximum collection. As part of Mosie Baby's FDA Class II clearance, the Mosie Baby Kit was put through rigorous clinical and technical testing, including Human Sperm Survival Assay, vaginal irritation testing, and biocompatibility testing. Through these tests, Mosie Baby validated that the device is non-cytotoxic, non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and free from microbial contamination.

"Nearly 10 years ago, my husband and I were devastated by a diagnosis of unexplained infertility and were desperate for options that were safe, financially accessible and easy to use at home," said co-founder and CEO Maureen Brown. "Since inventing the Mosie Baby Kit in 2014, we realized we weren't alone in our fertility journey as it's reported that one in six people experience infertility. To date, we're very proud to share that Mosie Baby has helped more than 100,000 families inseminate from the comfort of their own home. We are now thrilled to offer our device as an FDA reviewed option for families looking to inseminate at home."

"The recent Mosie Baby clearance means hundreds of thousands of underserved people now benefit from an at home option. The technology adheres to the highest FDA recognized test standards and is supported by robust clinical performance testing. The team took the time and care to manufacture a quality product. I am delighted to see it become accessible to countless future parents on their fertility journey. The team at Mosie Baby is on a path to becoming the at home gold standard fertility option." - Kwame Ulmer, Managing Partner at MedTech Impact Partners and former Deputy Director at FDA.

The Mosie Baby At-Home Insemination Kit (MSRP: $129.99) is available for purchase at mosiebaby.com, CVS.com or at select CVS stores nationwide, Walmart.com and optumstore.com. The kit will launch with additional retailers and healthcare partners in 2024. For more information, please visit mosiebaby.com .

About Mosie Baby

Mosie Baby is the developer and inventor of The Mosie Baby Kit, a groundbreaking at-home insemination kit featuring the patented Mosie syringe. Mosie is the first syringe designed, patented and now FDA-cleared specifically for at-home intravaginal insemination.

Mosie Baby is on a mission to empower people with the tools they need to grow their family on their own terms. Their vision is to create a safe and inclusive community for those looking to conceive by opening up conversations around conception while bringing dignity, accessibility and confidence to the process of inseminating at home.

To learn more about Mosie Baby, please visit mosiebaby.com or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and on TikTok @mosiebaby.

Media Contact:

Full Picture

MosieBaby@fullpic.com

SOURCE Mosie Baby
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Muon Space , a LEO satellite constellation company revolutionizing the way Earth is monitored from space, has been awarded a contract by the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) to provide commercial electro-optical (EO) capabilities at both the sensor and constellation level for assessment and potential contribution to the NRO mission. This award falls under the NRO Strategic Commercial Enhancements (SCE) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) Framework, commercial electro-optical capabilities Focus Area.

Muon Space has been awarded a contract by the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) to provide commercial electro-optical (EO) capabilities at both the sensor and constellation level for assessment and potential contribution to the NRO mission.

Muon Space will provide multispectral electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) data collected by the company's climate monitoring constellation for NRO assessment. The planned full constellation, which will be deployed at regular intervals, is designed to provide global coverage with rapid revisits for a persistent understanding of global thermal activity.

"We are thrilled to be included in the NRO evaluation of emerging commercial EO providers and excited to explore the dual application of our data to climate and national security missions. We believe deeply in both of these missions and look forward to building a lasting partnership with the NRO." said Jonny Dyer, CEO of Muon Space.

In just two years from inception, Muon Space designed and built a satellite platform optimized for remote sensing payloads and successfully launched its first satellite MuSat-1 in June 2023. Muon Space was awarded a contract by Air Force Life Cycle Management Center's (AFLMC)'s Weather Systems Branch and the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) to evaluate GNSS-R ocean wind speed, soil moisture products, and ionospheric data on their MuSat-2 satellite mission. Muon Space has also been awarded a contract from Hydrosat for its Constellation-as-a-Service (CaaS) spacecraft that will integrate Hydrosat's imaging instruments.

Former Acting Deputy Secretary of Defense and member of Muon Space's board, Christine Fox said, "I'm excited to see Muon Space take this next step in applying their capabilities to solve National Security problems. I'm encouraged by the NRO's continued push to integrate emerging commercial capabilities at the speed and scale needed to address critical National Security needs. Muon Space's capabilities will provide important insights and understanding to the NRO at an unclassified level, which can be easily shared with global partners."

About Muon Space

Founded in 2021, Muon Space is launching a new generation of smallsats and sensors to monitor Earth's climate and ecosystems with unprecedented fidelity. Muon's vertically integrated simulation, hardware and software stack accelerates customers' time-to-market from concept formulation through launch and to scaled operations. Muon Space's state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Silicon Valley is optimized for manufacturing spacecraft and rapid, flexible payload integration at scale. Regular launches began in June 2023 , providing data sets addressing important geophysical and environmental applications through the most scalable smallsat LEO constellation platform for delivering new technologies to space.

For more information on Muon Space, visit: https://www.muonspace.com/

SOURCE Muon Space
Database tracks key demographics, outcomes of prior lawsuits, and associated legal costs to improve strategies and reduce costs of litigating wrongful convictions cases

CHICAGO, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Truth, Hope and Justice Initiative, global law firm Ropes & Gray, the Law Firm Antiracism Alliance, and global professional services firm Aon announced today the creation of a searchable database comprising information on Section 1983 civil rights lawsuits filed against the City of Chicago and personnel from the Chicago Police Department since the year 2000.

The first-of-its-kind database captures the parties' demographics, the plaintiffs' claims, the disposition of closed cases, and the associated financial costs to City of Chicago taxpayers from paying out jury awards, settlements, and outside counsel fees to defend these cases. The database is designed to improve the outcomes and impact of civil rights litigation and advance criminal justice reform nationwide.

"This analysis shows the staggering costs of wrongful convictions and police misconduct in the City of Chicago," said Chicago-based civil rights attorney Andrew M. Stroth, founder of the non-profit Truth, Hope and Justice Initiative and architect of the project. "Taking a data-driven approach and leveraging technology allows us to measure risks and evaluate outcomes for plaintiffs and defendants and help improve future conduct by the Chicago Police Department."

Using this database, attorneys for litigants pursuing claims in wrongful convictions cases will be able to access information that provides them with additional context and fact patterns that may be useful in constructing their cases. Attorneys defending the City against these claims will be able to use the database to streamline their efforts by gaining insight on how prior wrongful conviction cases have been resolved to better allocate their resources in responding to these lawsuits. Criminal justice reform advocates can access the database to help evaluate the impact of the monetary costs of these cases to the City of Chicago and help drive reform.

"The platform is the first to drill into the hundreds of wrongful conviction cases brought against the city of Chicago over the past 23 years, capturing data on plaintiffs, defendants, jury verdicts, settlements, litigation expenses, and more," said Chicago-based Ropes & Gray partner Matt Jones. "Our goal is to help streamline the amount of time these cases spend in the court system and reduce the exorbitant cost to City of Chicago taxpayers."

Among key findings from the database, over 300 wrongful convictions and civil actions brought against the City of Chicago between 2000 and March 2023 resulted in verdicts or settlements costing the city more than a half billion dollars.

Looking ahead to a wider U.S. rollout, the database platform will serve as a tool for future litigation and a resource to educate the greater public.

"This project is about utilizing data to help local governments across the U.S. make decisions that are better for their cities, their taxpayers, the judicial system, and for victims of past misconduct," said Darren Zeidel, EVP, general counsel and company secretary, Aon. "We are proud to collaborate on this initiative as we engage with our community partners to achieve a more just and inclusive society."

About the Truth, Hope and Justice Initiative

The Truth, Hope and Justice Initiative (Truth, Hope and Justice") is a non-profit organization founded by civil rights attorney Andrew M. Stroth. The organization is committed to advancing social justice and racial equality by publishing stories of mothers impacted by unjustified police brutality and individuals wrongfully convicted in America. Truth, Hope and Justice has also formed a strategic alliance with Ropes & Gray, the Law Firm Anti-Racism Alliance, and Aon to develop and build an unprecedented database project tracking Section 1983 civil rights litigation in Chicago, Philadelphia and other jurisdictions across the country. The goal of this project is to utilize objective, data-driven insights to inform and improve litigation outcomes and advance police reform in America.

About Ropes & Gray

Ropes & Gray, a preeminent, global law firm, has been ranked in the top-three on The American Lawyer's prestigious "A-List" for seven years and is ranked #1 on Law.com International's "A-List" in the U.K.rankings that honor the "Best of the Best" firms. The firm has approximately 1,500 lawyers and legal professionals serving clients in major centers of business, finance, technology, and government in Boston, Chicago, Dublin, Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Seoul, Shanghai, Silicon Valley, Tokyo and Washington, D.C. The firm has consistently been recognized for its leading practices in many areas, including asset management, private equity, M&A, finance, real estate, tax, antitrust, life sciences, health care, intellectual property, litigation & enforcement, privacy & cybersecurity, and business restructuring.

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About Aon

Aon plc (NYSE: AON) exists to shape decisions for the better  to protect and enrich the lives of people around the world. Our colleagues provide our clients in over 120 countries and sovereignties with advice and solutions that give them the clarity and confidence to make better decisions to protect and grow their business.

Follow Aon on LinkedIn , Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . Stay up-to-date by visiting the Aon Newsroom and sign up for News Alerts here .

About the Law Firm Antiracism Alliance: The Law Firm Antiracism Alliance is a nonprofit organization created for the purpose of achieving racial equity in the law. The LFAA is a collaborative effort of 300 law firms that are located in all 50 states. These Alliance Firms, in partnership with legal services organizations and key stakeholders, dedicate their pro bono resources to initiatives that identify and address systemic racism in the law.

Media Contacts:

Ropes & Gray LLP

Jane Lanzillo

Public Relations Manager

+1-617-854-2238

[email protected]

Aon

[email protected]

Toll-free (U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico): +1 833 751 8114

International: +1 312 381 3024

SOURCE Ropes & Gray
DeNova Detect unveils the first and only 10-year battery-operated natural gas alarm in the U.S. to help keep people and property safe from natural gas explosions

LISLE, Ill., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DeNova Detect, created by New Cosmos USA Inc., the world's leading global manufacturer of natural gas alarms, today announced its revolutionary 10-year battery-powered natural gas alarm is now available at Lowes.com and in select Lowe's stores, as well as DeNova Detect's website. Making history, this DeNova Detect alarm is the first and only 10-year battery-operated natural gas alarm available in the United States and is listed to the new UL1484 safety standards.

DeNova Detect's early-warning technology offers natural gas leak alerts 11 minutes sooner than any other alarm. Post this New DeNova Detect 10-Year Battery Powered Natural Gas Alarm Available at Lowes

Natural gas explosions continue to rise across the country. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 4,200 home fires are ignited by a natural gas source annually. Additionally, a new natural gas explosion occurs every 40 hours and approximately 300 natural gas explosions occur each year, causing deaths, injuries and property damage. Since 2010, devastating gas leak incidents have resulted in 219 fatalities and more than 1,000 injuries.

DeNova Detect's early-warning technology offers natural gas leak alerts 11 minutes sooner than any other alarm, so residents can escape even faster and alert emergency services before an explosion occurs. When every second counts, this is a lifesaving difference you can't live without.

"Although natural gas explosions can cause deaths, injuries and major property damage, they are completely preventable. Now we have the technology to help save lives," said Ron Lazarus, COO of New Cosmos USA. "As the global leader of natural gas safety, DeNova Detect is proud to be the first to launch this innovative life-saving technology at Lowe's, especially during this critical time when natural gas explosions continue to increase. Our 10-year battery-powered natural gas alarms can help eliminate these catastrophic accidents and injuries, limit property damage, and even prevent deaths."

Since natural gas is lighter than air and rises towards the ceiling first, the NFPA 715 standard recommends natural gas alarms be mounted no more than 12 inches from the ceiling and installed in every room where gas appliances exist including cooking appliances, clothes dryers, water heaters, furnaces, and gas fireplaces. As the first 100% battery-powered residential natural gas alarm in the U.S., DeNova Detect's 10-year alarm exceeds this standard and has revolutionized the natural gas alarm market with a new 100% battery-powered option. It is the only alarm on the market that offers the best placement near the ceiling where natural gas rises and accumulates first, giving the fastest escape time possible.

The new DeNova Detect 10-year alarm is now available online and in select Lowe's stores across New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Tennessee, Massachusetts, Maine, and California. DeNova Detect natural gas alarms offer many unique benefits:

No battery replacements needed

Protection for less than three cents a day

a day Eliminates hidden electricity costs and battery replacement fees

Zero-rate of false alarms with the most advanced MEMS sensor technology

Voice alerts in English and Spanish announce the type of hazard and instructions to evacuate, and then call 911

Easily mounts to wall with no electrical outlet or wiring needed

"Homeowners understand the importance of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, but many are unaware they also need natural gas alarms to be fully protected," said Julie Harris, Safety Communications and Education Director of New Cosmos USA. "DeNova Detect is raising awareness around natural gas safety by working directly with fire service leaders and legislators, where a growing number of states and municipalities are considering laws requiring natural gas alarms."

In 2022, Maine became the first state to require natural gas alarms. Now, seven other states have legislation pending to require natural gas alarms including Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

This alarm introduction represents the beginning of our new line of 100% battery-powered gas alarms with early warning technology.

DeNova Detect has natural gas safety experts available for interviews to discuss the importance of natural gas alarms, availability of the new alarm at Lowe's stores and on Lowes.com, along with legislation and safety education.

To learn more about the importance of natural gas safety and alarms, visit denovadetect.com.

About New Cosmos USA, Inc.

New Cosmos Electric, a leading global supplier of natural gas alarms for more than 60 years, formed a wholly owned subsidiary, New Cosmos USA, Inc., in 2018. New Cosmos USA is headquartered in the Chicago area and has developed the DeNova Detect brand to provide gas alarms to some of the largest utility companies in the U.S. as well as commercial and residential customers. With more than 70 million residential gas alarms sold worldwide, and the developer of the first-ever residential natural gas alarm, New Cosmos remains committed to delivering cutting-edge safety solutions to customers globally to protect what matters most.

Media Contact for New Cosmos USA, Inc.

Chelsea Bowers

Zen Media

[email protected]

SOURCE New Cosmos USA Inc.
This strategic collaboration focuses on helping healthcare and life sciences organizations adopt a holistic approach to automation-driven digital transformation initiatives. The aim is to help them accelerate transformation efforts to gain a competitive edge, improve patient experience, and enhance their bottom-line results.

MOORESTOWN, N.J., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Nividous and RCG Global Services are pleased to announce their strategic focus, with a shared mission to help organizations achieve operational excellence and peak efficiency as part of overall digital and business transformation in the healthcare and life sciences ecosystem.

Together, this collaborative effort intends to help organizations solve intricate business challenges by harnessing cutting-edge technologies such as Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Low-code Process Orchestration, along with strong domain and industry expertise, all while delivering exceptional return on investment (ROI). The overarching goal is to augment human work experience by equipping individuals with intelligent automation tools that encourage innovation, creativity, and heightened productivity.

RCG Global Services brings industry experience and deep expertise in data engineering, architecture, AI, and digital strategy, delivering exceptional business outcomes for healthcare and life sciences organizations. Nividous contributes its unique approach to intelligent automation through a robust, user-friendly platform that comprehensively combines the capabilities of RPA, AI, and Low-code Process Automation. Together, with an emphasis on faster time-to-value, the partnership is focused on meeting organizations where they are in the automation and digital transformation journey  from inaugural efforts to enterprise scale.

Here are the primary areas of focus for this strategic partnership that enables healthcare and life sciences organizations, including payors, providers, pharmaceutical firms, health tech, and other industry players, to address current and future needs, ultimately securing their future:

Holistic value delivery: Taking a holistic approach, we leverage an integrated platform designed for end-to-end business process automation. Combined with RCG's business-centric and agile implementation approach, the platform facilitates the development of a cost-effective and efficient digital workforce. This enables organizations to focus on their core business, improve healthcare professionals and customer experience, and optimize the cost of ownership. For example, coding and billing process automation can optimize administrative costs and accelerate the provider's revenue cycle.

Taking a holistic approach, we leverage an integrated platform designed for end-to-end business process automation. Combined with RCG's business-centric and agile implementation approach, the platform facilitates the development of a cost-effective and efficient digital workforce. This enables organizations to focus on their core business, improve healthcare professionals and customer experience, and optimize the cost of ownership. For example, coding and billing process automation can optimize administrative costs and accelerate the provider's revenue cycle. Digital stewardship: Through this partnership, RCG and Nividous bring together a pragmatic approach to digital transformation, allowing clients to adopt rapid intelligent automation. This ensures organizations can move forward on their digital agenda irrespective of their current state of technology landscape and legacy challenges. For example, patient record processing through intelligent content automation can digitize the claims filing process without a complete revamp of claims platforms.

Through this partnership, RCG and Nividous bring together a pragmatic approach to digital transformation, allowing clients to adopt rapid intelligent automation. This ensures organizations can move forward on their digital agenda irrespective of their current state of technology landscape and legacy challenges. For example, patient record processing through intelligent content automation can digitize the claims filing process without a complete revamp of claims platforms. Improved care and patient safety: RCG and Nividous aim to go beyond organizational benefits and help reshape patient care by infusing AI and automation-driven solutions into healthcare workflows. For example, improving personalized care and treatment monitoring and accurately identifying and reporting patient safety indicators.

"At RCG Global Services, we recognize that the future of healthcare demands digital transformation and intelligent automation that works seamlessly with human expertise. Our partnership with Nividous is more than a synergy of technologies; it's a commitment to empowering healthcare professionals with the tools they need to deliver unparalleled patient care and operational excellence." Dr. Rob Nelson, Head, Healthcare and Life Sciences, RCG Global Services."

Erik Galardi, Director of Channel Partnerships at Nividous, emphasizes, "In today's rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, modern business operations are progressively transitioning towards digitization and intelligence. Nonetheless, many healthcare and life sciences are entangled in manual processes, fragmented systems, and operational inefficiencies. Nividous and RCG Global are committed to empowering the healthcare and life sciences industry in this period of transformation by solving their unique business problems with the most advanced AI and business process automation tools, supported by our robust strategy execution expertise."

About Nividous

Nividous, a global intelligent automation company, is passionate about enabling organizations to work at their peak efficiency.

The Nividous leadership team has decades of experience delivering hundreds of digital process automation solutions to companies and organizations of various sizes worldwide.

Leveraging its tremendous domain expertise, the Nividous team offers vertical solutions that are RPA and AI-enabled and built on configurable process automation capabilities to empower businesses to operate with flexibility and agility. Nividous also provides end-to-end professional services that include process discovery, implementation, support, and building Centers of Excellence (CoE).

Contact

Erik Galardi

Director of Channel Partnerships

Nividous Software Solutions

Call: 442.444.2767

Email: [email protected]

Book a meeting: https://calendly.com/erik-galardi

About RCG Global Services

RCG is a global provider of digital transformation consulting services, combining digital strategy and modern cloud and data technologies to deliver measurable business outcomes for customer engagement, workforce enablement, and operations optimization. RCG helps customers ignite transformational thinking and unlock new value throughout their journey to achieve their digital ambitions.

RCG serves Fortune 1000 enterprise clients across a range of markets, with special emphasis on the consumer, financial services, insurance, and healthcare industries. RCG is based in Iselin, New Jersey, with offices throughout the United States and offshore delivery centers in the Philippines and India. For more information, please visit rcgglobalservices.com.

SOURCE Nividous
NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, NOLEJ, an innovative Edtech start-up, introduces an advanced AI copilot for teachers, designed to streamline the creation of engaging educational content. The funding round, led by Educapital and Square Knowledge Ventures, is a pivotal milestone in NOLEJ's growth trajectory.

Revolutionizing Interactive Education

NOLEJ Management: Bodo Hoenen (CIO) and Vincent Favrat (CEO) NOLEJ funding team of serial entrepreneurs: Philippe Decottignies (CTO), Nejma Belkhdim (CPO), Vincent Favrat (CEO), Bodo Hoenen (CEO)

Educators face challenges in engaging students amidst information overload. A study by eLearning Guild shows that 75% of conventional course materials don't meet current student needs. NOLEJ AI helps educators generate interactive eLearning modules up to 50 times faster than traditional methods. It significantly reduces the cost of creating compelling educational content, which previously could exceed 10,000 per hour.

Jonathan Denais, Investment Director at Educapital, asserts, "NOLEJ stands out as a European frontrunner in applying generative AI in education. They effectively leverage AI to tackle everyday challenges faced by educators."

In the workflow of educators

Based on market standards, NOLEJ seamlessly integrates into the prevalent digital ecosystems used by millions of teachers such as Moodle, Canvas, Google Classroom, and Microsoft Teams, supporting multiple languages, including English, French and Portuguese. Philippe Decottignies, Founder and CTO of NOLEJ, explains, "Our architecture is designed as the AI backend of edtech, bringing the benefits of AI to all educational institutions, by upgrading their existing learning infrastructure."

Proven Approach

"The combined value of pedagogical automation and curriculum intelligence is unique to NOLEJ. It allows for a much more dynamic approach to fulfilling almost any learning need from K-12 to higher-education and lifelong learning." - Ricardo Prado Schneider, Partner at Square Knowledge Ventures

Built by a team with a decade of AI expertise, cognitive science and pedagogy, NOLEJ ensures accuracy in AI-generated content, circumventing biases and misinformation through its unique "ground Truth" models. Beta testing with 25,000 teachers and over 384 independent studies validate an 85% increase in course completion and a 75% improvement in retention for interactive content, significantly improving learning outcomes.

Nejma Belkhdim, co-founder and CPO of NOLEJ, emphasizes, "Our goal is to empower teachers to use AI responsibly, especially considering concerns about AI-generated content's authenticity and reliability."

From Recognition to Global Ambitions

NOLEJ's international acclaim includes accolades such as Winner of the GESAwards for France, the European Innovation Council's Seal of Excellence and finals at the TechCrunch Disrupt Battlefield and the ASU-GSV Cup in the USA.

Already adopted by 59,000 teachers across 10 countries, NOLEJ's clientele includes key school districts in the USA and prestigious institutions like IMD and the Ile de-France region in France, which provides their AI to 625 high schools. "Our vision is to empower educators with tools that not only meet their evolving demands but also inspire a new era of adaptive and accessible learning," said Bodo Hoenen, CIO NOLEJ.

Scaling Operations for a Transformative Future

This financing round brings together prominent investors including Educapital, and SQUARE Knowledge Ventures, marking a pivotal moment in NOLEJ's journey to reshape educational landscapes as it transitions from start-up to scale-up. Vincent Favrat, CEO of NOLEJ, notes, "NOLEJ is at the forefront of a paradigm shift in education, answering the need of 82% of educational institutions planning to integrate AI tools imminently."

About NOLEJ

Co-founded between France and the United States by a group of serial entrepreneurs, NOLEJ specialized in natural language processing before the emergence of generative AI such as ChatGPT. Today, NOLEJ markets a mature product, co-developed with thousands of teachers in a collective intelligence approach. NOLEJ offers institutions and training centers an upgrade of their learning infrastructure, reinforced by ethical AI, directed to meet their specific needs.

About the Investors

Founded in 2017 by Marie-Christine Levet and Litzie Maarek, Educapital is the largest European impact investment fund dedicated to Edtech and the Future of Work. Backed by investment fund Gama Capital, SQUARE Knowledge Ventures, established in Rio de Janeiro in 2020, specializes in educational technologies. Neer Venture Partners, a new US based Seed fund specialized in B2B SaaS start-ups in Fintech and Edtech, also contributed to this funding round.

Contact:

Philippine Bacquart  [email protected] - +336.77.08.48.63

Eve Jouandin  [email protected] - +337.88.39.61.16

SOURCE NOLEJ
DUBLIN, Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Growth Opportunities in the North American Hydrogen Infrastructure Market for Trucks" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The report projects the daily hydrogen demand for medium and high-duty FCEV trucks to register a 54.6% CAGR from 2025 to 2035, reaching almost 12,000 tons by 2035. The total number of hydrogen refueling stations will likely grow from 186 in 2025 to 7,210 by 2035.

The report offers stakeholders insights into this rapidly growing market to enable them to explore and monetize emerging opportunities. Immense growth opportunities exist in the hydrogen economy, addressing the needs of various industries and markets.

There is a growing need for cheap and cleaner hydrogen sources from the manufacturing, power generation, transportation, and chemical industries. Different hydrogen production methods offer different opportunities, with greater emphasis and future advancement toward green hydrogen produced from renewable sources.

Demand for fuel cell trucks will increase gradually in the coming years. Stakeholders view this technology as complementing pure battery electric trucks rather than a competing powertrain. Frost & Sullivan forecasts high-duty (HD) fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) trucks in operation to record a 55.3% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2025 to 2035, with 322,294 units in operation by 2035.

There are specific niche segments and applications where fuel cell trucks provide a better use case than battery electric vehicles. Along with lower battery weight, fuel cell trucks can provide higher load-carrying ability and miles between refueling. We expect the long-haul share in the HD FCEV truck segment to grow from 60.3% in 2025 to 75% in 2035.

The proliferation of fuel cell trucks will require sufficient hydrogen refueling stations to address their needs. These stations must cater specifically to trucks and require a higher daily hydrogen production capacity than those for passenger cars. This would also create greater demand for storage tanks; compressors; chillers; and, for green hydrogen, electrolyzers.

Key Issues Addressed:

Number of Fuel Cell Trucks in operation in North America and forecast?

and forecast? Total daily hydrogen demand from M&HD fuel cell trucks in North America in the future ?

in the future ? Number of hydrogen refueling stations expected to come in North America catering to trucks by 2035?

catering to trucks by 2035? Investment and operation running costs involved in setting up a grey and green hydrogen refueling station in North America ?

? Revenue and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) associated with investment in grey and green hydrogen infrastructure?

Key Topics Covered:

Strategic Imperatives

Why Is It Increasingly Difficult to Grow?

The Strategic Imperative

The Impact of the Top 3 Strategic Imperatives on the Hydrogen Infrastructure for Trucks

Growth Opportunities Fuel the Growth Pipeline Engine

Growth Environment

Hydrogen Ecosystem

Hydrogen Production Methods

FCEV Trucks in Operation

Hydrogen Demand of M&HD FCEV Trucks

Hydrogen Refueling Stations

Scope and Segmentation

Research Scope

Market Segmentation

Hydrogen Infrastructure Demand

FCEV Truck Share by Application

Key Specifications of MD FCEV Trucks

Key Specifications of HD FCEV Trucks

Hydrogen Demand of MD FCEV Trucks

Hydrogen Demand of HD FCEV Trucks

Hydrogen Refueling Station Assumptions

Hydrogen Production Share by Station Size

Depot Hydrogen Refueling Stations

Public Hydrogen Refueling Stations

Hydrogen Refueling Stations

Hydrogen Infrastructure Business Outlook

Stages in Hydrogen Refueling

Hydrogen Refueling Station Types and Assumptions

2022-2036 Business Outlook

Grey Hydrogen Infrastructure: Investment

Grey Hydrogen Infrastructure: Costs

Grey Hydrogen Infrastructure: Returns

Green Hydrogen Infrastructure: Investment

Green Hydrogen Infrastructure: Costs

Green Hydrogen Infrastructure: Returns

2025-2039 Business Outlook

Grey Hydrogen Infrastructure: Investment

Grey Hydrogen Infrastructure: Costs

Grey Hydrogen Infrastructure: Returns

Green Hydrogen Infrastructure: Investment

Green Hydrogen Infrastructure: Costs

Green Hydrogen Infrastructure: Returns

2030-2044 Business Outlook

Grey Hydrogen Infrastructure: Investment

Grey Hydrogen Infrastructure: Costs

Grey Hydrogen Infrastructure: Returns

Green Hydrogen Infrastructure: Investment

Green Hydrogen Infrastructure: Costs

Green Hydrogen Infrastructure: Returns

2035-2049 Business Outlook

Grey Hydrogen Infrastructure: Investment

Grey Hydrogen Infrastructure: Costs

Grey Hydrogen Infrastructure: Returns

Green Hydrogen Infrastructure: Investment

Green Hydrogen Infrastructure: Costs

Green Hydrogen Infrastructure: Returns

Growth Opportunity Universe

Growth Opportunity 1: Hydrogen Ecosystem Expansion and Diversification

Growth Opportunity 2: Fuel Cell Truck Demand

Growth Opportunity 3: Hydrogen Station Value Chain

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/nm2qd6

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

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SOURCE Research and Markets
WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On the second anniversary of the passing of the Honorable Bob Dole (R-KS), the National PACE Association (NPA) praises the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act (H.R. 542) by a vote of 414-5, which will give veterans increased access to the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly across the nation. We urge the Senate to pass this bill soon so more veterans can enjoy the highest quality of life possible as they age by receiving any care needed at home or in the community.

The legislation would establish formal partnerships between Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) and nearby Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMCs) located within their geographic service areas. This policy change would broadly increase access for veterans to the innovative PACE model of care so they may continue to live at home, despite needing a nursing home level of care.

NPA commends the bill sponsor, Rep. Julia Brownley (D-CA-26), ranking member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health, for her strong and tireless leadership on this important legislation, as well as lead co-sponsor Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI-1), Committee on Veterans' Affairs chair Mike Bost (R-IL-12), and ranking member Mark Takano (D-CA-39) for their efforts to help more veterans receive needed care at home and in the community.

Health Subcommittee ranking member Brownley added "I have also spoken with countless veterans and their loved ones, and based on my experience, one thing is very clear: Almost every veteran would prefer to age at home rather than in a facility. However, for many veterans, doing so requires certain clinical support that can be prohibitively expensive if not covered by the VA. . . . H.R. 542 would help relieve this heartache and give families access to programs that will help veterans stay in their homes and receive the care they need, the care that they have earned, and the care that they deserve."

"As studies show and as many of the older Veterans throughout our Nation will attest, care in home settings is often preferable to care in a clinical facility. This is especially true for those disabled and elderly Veterans living in rural and remote communities like Michigan's First Congressional District. The Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act recognizes this reality, and I'm proud to join Rep. Julia Brownley, to comprehensively expand access, options, and programs for these Veterans who deserve care in the comfort of their home," said Rep. Bergman, lead cosponsor of the bill.

Chairman Bost said "I'm thrilled by the passage of the Dole Act, named after a woman who has made huge strides in her lifetime to improve the lives of our veterans and their caregivers, Senator Elizabeth Dole. H.R. 542 will do just that by making drastic improvements to VA's Home and Community-Based services for our elderly veteran community. The enhancements the Dole Act would create will allow veterans to "age-in-place" in the comfort of their homes, rather than in long-term care facilities. Having served our nation in uniform, these men and women deserve to make the call on how they want to spend their sunset years. I know that this bill will improve quality of life for many of our veterans, and look forward to working with Senate to enact it as part of a larger package off veterans legislation."

Ranking member Takano stated, "This important legislation will enable veterans to remain at home, safely age in place, and avoid or delay admission to nursing homes and other costly institutional settings of care. And it is supported by every major VSO and partners like the National PACE Association. I thank and applaud Congresswoman Julia Brownley for her efforts on crafting this bill and getting it over this first hurdle."

SOURCE National PACE Association
NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- OC&C Strategy Consultants (OC&C), the global strategy consulting firm, has become a certified B CorporationTM, joining a global community of businesses committed to balancing profit with purpose.

As a Certified B Corporation, OC&C Strategy Consultants has undergone rigorous evaluation by B Lab, meeting high standards for social and environmental impact. This certification also reflects the firm's ongoing dedication to using business as a force for good, evidenced by its legal commitment to stakeholder governance and pledge to continuous improvement.

OC&C has always been committed to building for the long-term  for both their clients and themselves  and B Corp aligns well with these values and initiatives already pursued by the firm. As a people-oriented business, OC&C is dedicated to becoming the best home for the best strategy talent, striving to ensure that individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds are well-equipped to thrive as employees and individuals. This gives OC&C the strongest possible team to provide high quality bespoke advice to their clients.

In the broader community, the firm's commercial client work increasingly embeds environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, and the resources dedicated to pro bono work have continually expanded to nearly 1.5% of all revenue.

Environmentally, the firm has made significant strides in performing in-depth measurements of its carbon emissions and setting and working towards science-based targets to minimise its footprint in the short and long term.

As a Certified B Corp, OC&C Strategy Consultants aims to demonstrate that profitability and social responsibility are not mutually exclusive but integral components of a forward-thinking and impactful business model.

Will Hayllar, OC&C's Global Managing Partner, commented on the announcement:

"We aspired to become a B Corp to put our values into practice - moving beyond profit to make a positive impact on people and the planet. As a global strategy consulting firm growing in size and influence, it's critical to ensure these principles are intrinsic to both our core strategic work for clients and the way our business operates more widely''.

"The foundation of our business is our people. I hope this mark of assurance instils a sense of pride and motivates even greater engagement in our collective mission''.

Deidre Sorensen, Partner and Global Head of ESG, OC&C, added:

"We are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with over 7,000 B Corp companies worldwide, united in a commitment to use business as a force for good. And whilst this is a moment to celebrate, we know this is just the beginning. From our carbon footprint to our stakeholders' well-being, every aspect of our impact will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, looking for ways to create positive change. It's daunting to make this commitment, but critical if we want to drive lasting impact in a genuine way.''

Chris Turner, Executive Director of B Lab UK, shared: "We are delighted to welcome OC&C Strategy Consultants to the B Corp community. This is a movement of companies who are committed to changing how business operates and believe business really can be a force for good. We know that OC&C Strategy Consultants are going to be a fantastic addition to the community and will continue driving the conversation forward".

OC&C looks forward to their exciting new chapter and enthusiastically invites and encourages industry peers to join them in reshaping the consulting landscape and the positive impact they can collectively make.

About OC&C

Founded in 1987, OC&C is a leading global strategy consulting firm that brings clear thinking to the most complex issues facing today's management teams. OC&C's client roster includes some of the world's most respected companies throughout the retail, consumer goods, leisure & hospitality, media, technology, industrial products and services and private equity sectors.

For more information about OC&C Strategy Consultants, please visit occstrategy.com

About B Lab:

B Lab is transforming the economy to benefit all people, communities, and the planet. A leader in economic systems change, our global network creates standards, policies, and tools for business, and we certify companiesknown as B Corpswho are leading the way. To date, our global community includes over 7,000 B Corps in 90 countries and 161 industries, and over 150,000 companies manage their impact with the B Impact Assessment and the SDG Action Manager.

Usca.bcorporation.net

SOURCE OC&C Strategy Consultants
OAKLAND, Calif., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pacific Workers, a leading workers' compensation law firm, has embraced the spirit of giving this holiday season by extending their support to the Kids Tutoring Program at the Monument Crisis Center located in Concord, CA.

In a heartwarming effort to forge new community bonds, Pacific Workers donated over 50 toys, fulfilling the wishes of the children participating in the tutoring program. The element of surprise added an extra layer of joy, as the kids were unaware of the impending generosity.

This marks the beginning of Pacific Workers' annual toy drive, dedicated to supporting local communities across Northern California. The firm is committed to making a positive impact and has identified key partnerships to achieve this goal.

Among the notable collaborations is the ongoing support of the Firefighters Toy Drives in for the city of Hayward and Oakland, CA. This year marks the third consecutive year of Pacific Workers' involvement in these initiatives, underlining their dedication to community well- being.

"We believe in the power of collective generosity, and these toy drives allow us to make a meaningful contribution to the communities we serve. The smiles on the kids' faces are the greatest reward," said Carmen Ramirez, Community Director at Pacific Workers.

As the holiday season unfolds, Pacific Workers remains committed to supporting organizations that make a difference in the lives of local residents. The firm looks forward to continuing and expanding its community outreach efforts in the coming years.

For more information about Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers, and its commitment to the community, please visit www.pacificworkers.com .

Media Contact:

Carmen Ramirez

[email protected]

510 444- 2512

About Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers:

Pacific Workers is a leading workers' compensation law firm in Northern California. With a passionate commitment to defending the rights of injured workers and advocating for workplace safety. For more information, please visit www.pacificworkers.com .

SOURCE Pacific Workers' Compensation Law Center
This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2023 shows a watchtower of the Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Bin)

This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2023 shows the Panlongshan section (front) and the Wohushan section (rear) of Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)

Foreign tourists climb the Panlongshan section of the Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 24, 2023. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)

This aerial photo taken on Oct. 23, 2023 shows the north entrance of Gubeikou Village of Gubeikou Town in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)

A tourist visits the Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 14, 2023. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Bin)

People visit a temple fair at the Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 28, 2023. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)

This photo taken on Sept. 28, 2023 shows the Gubeikou Great Wall at sunrise in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua)

This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2023 shows the Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2023 shows the Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Bin)

This aerial photo taken on Nov. 15, 2023 shows the Gubei Water Town scenic area at the foot of Simatai section of Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)

This aerial photo taken on Nov. 15, 2023 shows the Simatai section of Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)

This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2023 shows the Panlongshan section of Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

This photo taken on Sept. 28, 2023 shows the Gubeikou Great Wall at sunrise in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua)

This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2023 shows the Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

People perform lion dance at a temple fair at the Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 28, 2023. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Xia Zilin)

This photo taken on Sept. 28, 2023 shows the Gubeikou Great Wall at sunrise in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua)

This photo taken on Sept. 28, 2023 shows the Gubeikou Great Wall at sunrise in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua)

This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2023 shows the Gubeikou anti-Japanese war martyr's cemetery in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)

A man visits the Gubeikou Great Wall memorial hall of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 14, 2023. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2023 shows the Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Bin)

This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2023 shows the Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

This aerial photo taken on Oct. 24, 2023 shows people climbing the Panlongshan section of the Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Xia Zilin)

This aerial photo taken on Oct. 24, 2023 shows the Wohushan section of Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)

This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2023 shows the Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Bin)

This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2023 shows a watchtower at the Panlongshan section of Gubeikou Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Li Jing)

This combo photo shows the Gubeikou before the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression (file photo, above) and the Gubeikou Town (aerial photo taken on Nov. 14, 2023 by Chen Zhonghao, below). Gubeikou Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua)

Editor: JYZ
Report Builds on Findings from Paladin's 2022 Report on the U.S. Safety Tech Market

Report Produced in Partnership with PUBLIC, Perspective Economics, and Leading Cyberpsychologist Dr. Mary Aiken

WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Paladin Capital Group, a leading multi-stage investor in advanced cyber and AI technologies, today released its second report on the state of the Safety Tech industry, building on its 2022 report which found evidence of an emerging billion-dollar US market. This updated report analyzed the market with an assessment across multiple countries, governments, and sectors. The reportcompleted by Paladin Capital Group, PUBLIC's Online Safety team, with the support of Perspective Economics and leading cyberpsychologist and Paladin's Chief Scientist Safety Tech, Dr. Mary Aikenfound that the international Safety Tech market is experiencing rapid year-to-year growth. In the past three years alone, Safety Tech firms have raised $4.8 billion. That is nearly triple the amount raised between 2011  2020.

"Safety Tech" refers to the class of technologies or solutions designed to facilitate safer online experiences and protect users from harmful content, contact or conduct. Whereas cybersecurity relates to protecting data, systems and networks, Safety Tech protects the people who use technology. Solutions in this space focus on reducing risk and harm to users in the everyday online environments by protecting people from mis/disinformation, online harassment, hate, discrimination, and online terrorist content, which increasingly threatens democracy and civil society.

"In today's online society, users are faced with growing cyberattacks that not only threaten cyberspace, but also their well-being," said Chris Steed, Paladin Chief Investment Officer and Managing Director. "Paladin was founded with the commitment to recognize and address the vulnerabilities facing our critical infrastructure. Over two decades later, that commitment hasn't changed. Now, we need to help the humans who operate in cyberspace to become resilient and secure."

This inaugural International State of Safety Tech report establishes a baseline that will be updated on an annual basis going forward, updating the data on the international landscape, increasing awareness of the maturity and impact of Safety Tech offerings, and driving growth in the Safety Tech sector internationally. Through a combination of desk research, expert interviews, and quantitative market analysis, the researchers found:

The number of dedicated Safety Tech providers has almost tripled in the last decade globally to a total of 537 private sector firms or organizations. Across 37 countries, nearly 17,000 people are employed in the Safety Tech industry.





The United States and the United Kingdom together are leading the industry, collectively home to about three-quarters of Safety Tech companies.





and the together are leading the industry, collectively home to about three-quarters of Safety Tech companies. In the U.S., more Safety Tech firms are being acquired and embedded into larger tech companies, a trend expected to rise and continue in the coming years.





In 2024, we expect to see greater attention on solutions to improve election integrity and tackle mis/disinformation, driven by global conflict and upcoming high-profile elections in countries that account for over 50% of global GDP.





Rapidly developing generative AI technologies and landmark online safety legislation in the EU and UK present unique threats and opportunities to the industry. The recent passing of the Online Safety Act in the UK positions it as a global leader and policymaker in Safety Tech.

"The widespread impact of online harm is now well recognized, presenting users with psychological risks, criminal dangers, and extremism," said Dr. Mary Aiken, Paladin Chief Scientist Safety Tech and Member of Strategic Advisory Group. "Governments and companies must continue to take greater responsibility for protecting our collective cyber future and those who are vulnerable online. Those of us in the Safety Tech industry must continue to promote research, partnerships, policies, and solutions to create the future we want today and tomorrowboth online and in the real world. This report is a culmination of years of research and hard work."

"With new online safety regulation coming into force in the UK and EU and Generative AI tools emerging at a rapid pace, we are at an exciting watershed moment for the Safety Tech sector," said Alex de Carvalho, CEO & Co-Founder at PUBLIC. "What's more, as nearly half of the world's population heads to the polls in 2024 there is a huge opportunity and great urgency for governments, regulators, investors, and industry to further catalyze the online Safety Tech sector to protect citizens online."

At a time of heightened concern around online safety, the report guides policymakers on how to navigate previously unfamiliar situations to protect Americans online. "We are familiar with national security challenges concerning the protection of critical infrastructure; however, the cyber threat landscape is changing, and now we face the challenge of securing 'human infrastructure,'" said Congressman James Langevin, Member of Paladin Strategic Advisory Group. "The global policy and regulatory environment is increasingly concerned with protecting users from online harm. While there has been reluctance in some corners among policymakers to regulate in the online safety arena, it's clear the tide is shifting."

The report is forward-facing, looking to guide both policymakers and tech companies as they work to develop Artificial Intelligence technology safely. "There is an essential and urgent need to develop frameworks, based on rapidly evolving private sector best practices, to instill trust, safety, and security into the core of AI development and deployment process in the international Safety Tech sector," said Chris Inglis, Paladin Senior Strategic Advisor and former U.S. National Cyber Director.

Based on the findings of the research, the report provides a set of tailored recommendations for governments, regulators, international bodies, investors, leading tech companies, and Safety Tech providers in order to drive the next wave of growth in the sector internationally. In this of what will be a yearly report, Paladin, Dr. Aiken, and PUBLIC have put together a roadmap for experts to reference in coming years.

The full report is available here.

About Paladin Capital Group

Paladin Capital Group was founded in 2001 and has offices in Washington DC, New York, London, Luxembourg, and Silicon Valley. As a multi-stage investor, Paladin's core strength is identifying, supporting and investing in innovative companies that develop promising, early-stage technologies to address the critical cyber and advanced technological needs of both commercial and government customers. Combining proven investment experience with deep expertise in global security, cyber technology and cutting-edge research, Paladin has invested in more than 70 companies since 2008 and has been a trusted partner to investors, entrepreneurs and governments for over two decades.

For more on Paladin Capital Group, follow us on Twitter at @Paladincap and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/paladin-capital-group or visit us at www.paladincapgroup.com.

About PUBLIC

PUBLIC is a digital transformation partner committed to helping the public sector turn innovative ideas into practical solutions Combining expertise around government policy, delivery, and technology, PUBLIC aims to build a public sector that is powered by new technologies and innovative ways of working, achieving better outcomes for citizens. As one of Europe's leading advisory firms with a specialism in online safety, PUBLIC works closely with clients across central government, regulator bodies and industry to build safer online spaces, protect users and grow a responsible digital economy.

For more on PUBLIC, follow us on Twitter at @PUBLIC_Team and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/public.io/ or visit us at https://www.public.io/.

SOURCE Paladin Capital Group
Washington-based health system anticipates growth in ASC and home care with Medline

NORTHFIELD, Ill., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Building on their longstanding relationship, PeaceHealth recently awarded Medline both its physician office and post-acute care prime vendor agreements. A nationally-recognized health system based in Vancouver, Washington, PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 care providers, a medical group practice with more than 1,200 providers and 10 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest.

Through the agreements, Medline provides an extensive portfolio of medical surgical supplies, equipment and devices to over 400 PeaceHealth clinics  physician office, ambulatory care, community health and home and hospice care -- in Oregon and Washington, with expansion plans for Alaska. Medline resources also help enable PeaceHealth to more easily monitor key metrics, such as item utilization, contract compliance, price accuracy and spend by product categories for these divisions.

"From remote areas in Alaska to urban centers in Oregon, PeaceHealth cares for everyone," said Craig Cottrell, director of field sales programs at Medline. "And it's a privilege to be a strategic partner with an organization that so clearly operates within a healing mission that drives all that they are and all that they do."

PeaceHealth care sites and services continue to evolve with the needs of the community. The health system cites Medline distribution center locations, supply chain solutions and breadth of product portfolio as factors that impacted its prime vendor decisions.

"It's an exciting time to be working together  particularly as PeaceHealth looks to continue to add ambulatory surgery centers and expand homecare and community health capabilities," said David Eusted, system director of supply chain  ambulatory, for PeaceHealth.

PeaceHealth is opening an ASC in Bellingham, Washington next spring. The health system is also building a state-of-the-art ASC in Vancouver, Washington, slated to open in 2025, which will house multiple specialty clinics including dermatology, ear/nose/throat, and endoscopy.

"We're leaning into the Medline portfolio and its supply chain expertise to make us more efficient without compromising anything in terms of patient outcomes or product quality," said Eusted. "We work proactively with Medline on desktop delivery and PAR solutions, auto-substitutions and other inventory management processes to minimize disruptions or stock outs. Our Medline team is a group of high quality people, who are caring and knowledgeable. It's all about relationships and these agreements are a win for PeaceHealth and a win for Medline."

PeaceHealth also expects its prime vendor partnerships with Medline to help with future affiliate network recruitment.

"Our relationship with PeaceHealth has grown into a real partnership over the years together," said Brooks Haggerty, division manager at Medline, "We understand each other's goals and objectives and work collaboratively not only to our mutual benefit but, more importantly, to the benefit of the communities PeaceHealth serves."

Learn how Medline tailors solutions across the entire continuum of care as a manufacturer and distributor by visiting medline.com/supply-chain.

About PeaceHealth

PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Washington, is a not-for-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 caregivers, a medical group practice with more than 1,200 providers and 10 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org .

PeaceHealth was recently ranked No. 1 on list of Portland Business Journal's list of Oregon's healthiest employers.

About Medline

Medline is a healthcare company  a medical supply manufacturer, distributor, and solutions provider focused on improving the overall operating performance of healthcare. Partnering across the continuum of care, Medline helps providers to activate the clinical and supply chain resources needed to deliver their best care. With the agility to solve problems quickly and the scale to partner with providers for their sustained success, Medline is able to invest in its customers for the future and rapidly respond to a dynamically changing market with customized solutions.

Medline was most recently named to the Forbes America's Best Large Employers and America's Best Employers for Women lists, and was recognized for the 12th year by Chicago Tribune as a Top Workplace . Headquartered in Northfield, Ill., Medline has 35,000+ employees worldwide and operates in over 125 countries and territories. Learn more at medline.com.

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SOURCE Medline
TORONTO, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Pineapple Financial Inc. (NYSE American: PAPL), a tech-focused mortgage brokerage with an integrated network of partner brokerages and agents across Canada, today announced it had deployed a new online application system enabling borrowers to quickly and easily discover how much mortgage they can afford, get an improved pre-qualification breakdown, and download a breakdown PDF to share with their realtor when looking for a new home.

Pineapple Financial Inc. | NYSE American: PAPL (CNW Group/Pineapple Financial Inc.)

The new application, said Pineapple, takes significant complexity out of the mortgage process by helping borrowers better understand what information they need to provide and guiding them through the application step-by-step.

In addition, the application benefits Pineapple by offering over 400 customizable variations that company brokers can control, including additional fields providing information on a client's previous addresses and employment. The application also allows for multiple income types, asset types, and liability records to be submitted, giving these brokers a clearer picture of a client's financial health.

"The new application system is expected to attract additional customers by reducing the stress, time and effort often associated with seeking a home mortgage," said Kendall Marin, Pineapple President and COO.

It is also expected to help Pineapple to maintain upgraded data management and enhance the company's security and compliance capabilities, he said.

Pineapple CEO Shubha Dasgupta added, "This new application system enables our brokers to see 100% of all applications at all stages - Success, Draft, or Abandoned. Plus, the consent documents are saved, ensuring compliance guidelines are met on every deal."

Christa Mitchell, Pineapple's Chief Strategy Officer, added, "In today's world, speed is the key to any successful application. This new application is fast as lightning, so our clients can complete it in one sitting and get pre-qualified in minutes."

Christa Mitchell concluded, "This new system continues Pineapple's tradition of leading the industry by providing groundbreaking solutions, enhancing borrower confidence and setting a new standard for mortgage applications."

About Pineapple Financial:

Pineapple is an award-winning fintech and leading Canadian mortgage brokerage network, focusing on both the long-term success of agents and brokers, as well as the overall experience of homeowners. With approximately 650 brokers within the network, Pineapple creates cutting-edge cloud-based tools and AI-driven systems to enable its brokers to help Canadians realize their dream of owning a home. Pineapple is active within the community and is proud to sponsor charities across Canada to improve the lives of fellow Canadians.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @pineapplemortgage @empoweredbypineapple

Facebook: Pineapple Mortgage

LinkedIn: Pineapple Mortgage

Safe Harbor 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 "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "aim," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "is/are likely to," "potential," "continue" or other 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 that arise after the date hereof, except as may be required by law. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the uncertainties related to market conditions and the completion of the initial public offering on the anticipated terms or at all, and other factors discussed in the "Risk Factors" section of the registration statement filed with the SEC. 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. Additional factors are discussed in the Company's filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov.

Related Links:

https://gopineapple.com

http://empoweredbypineapple.com

SOURCE Pineapple Financial Inc.
First 24/7 Automated Pizzeria is now Open in Mexico City

TORONTO, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PizzaForno, North America's first automated pizzeria that bakes pizza in less than three minutes, is growing as quickly as the automated machines can be built. The brand is announcing their newest expansion into Mexico marking their second international breakthrough in the last two years, with PizzaForno debuting in all three of North America's largest countries.

The first 24/7 automated pizzeria is now open in Mexico City.

The new location is now open to interested sub-licensees to visit in Mexico City at Av. Santa Fe 546, Lomas de Santa Fe, Contadero, Cuajimalpa de Morelos, 01219 Ciudad de Mexico, CDMX, Mexico. The unit will be open to the public in mid-December.

This expansion comes after PizzaForno launched in Canada in 2018 and expanded into the United States in 2021.

Behind the opening and expansion are Master Licensees Salomon Bialostozky and Jacko Duayhe. After this opening, the duo plans to open 20 more locations in the Mexico City area throughout 2024.

"We're bringing delicious pizzas to Mexico, an underserved market, where customers are looking for fast, flavorful, hot meal options that they can access at any time of the day," said Jason Lowder, Chief Marketing Officer of PizzaForno. "As we continue to see excitement for our innovative brand, we look forward to continuing to grow our footprint across the globe."

The pizza vending machine explosion continues, with plans to expand south of the border with over 100 units in the coming years. The growth begins with this location in Mexico City, but PizzaForno plans to grow into Los Cabos, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Monterrey, Puebla, Guadalajara and more.

PizzaForno is growing rapidly and plans to have 25,000 operating units by 2028. The brand prioritizes providing their services in places that would benefit greatly from PizzaForno's cutting-edge technology and have begun expanding into campuses and other unconventional locations. Accessible 24/7 at the tap of a digital screen, this revolutionary concept in North America, offers an array of pizza selection hand made with top-quality ingredients.

Interested licensees are invited to contact PizzaForno to schedule a visit. To learn more about PizzaForno and their licensing opportunities, visit https://www.pizzaforno.com/contact.

ABOUT PIZZAFORNO

Founded in 2018 by Canadian entrepreneurs William Moyer and Les Tomlin, PizzaForno is North America's only automated pizzeria which introduces high quality pizza in less than three minutes. Accessible 24/7 at the tap of a digital screen, PizzaForno offers a selection of hand made pizza options, each made with high quality ingredients. Utilizing technology made popular in France by ADIAL, PizzaForno has built the brand on a proven machine with already 2,200 operating in Europe. PizzaForno currently has 61 operating locations and over 100 additional locations committed in the U.S. alone, with the first 15 U.S. locations already established in Georgia, Michigan, Texas, and Louisiana. In 2020, PizzaForno was honored with the Restaurants Canada 2020 Innovation Award. To learn more about PizzaForno, visit https://www.pizzaforno.com/.

SOURCE PizzaForno
Key Points

In June 2023 , Catalyst acquired two companies to complete a consolidation of the Plutonic Gold Belt, a belt situated in northern WA

Previous owners of the belt had estimated Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves however, Catalyst felt a different estimation approach was needed

Since taking control, Catalyst has been undertaking this re-estimation process

These global Plutonic Resources include Resources for both the underground mine at Plutonic as well as the satellite development project, Trident

Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves for the Plutonic Main deposit are: Indicated Resources: 17.2Mt at 2.9g/t Au for 1,592,000oz Inferred Resources: 0.7Mt at 2.6g/t Au for 62,000oz Reserves: 5.2Mt at 2.9g/t Au for 490,000oz

Resource and Reserve estimation has still not been undertaken by Catalyst on Plutonic East and the Hermes Area

Mineral Resources for Trident are: Indicated Resources: 1.6Mt at 5.0g/t Au for 257,000oz Inferred Resources: 2.6Mt at 3.0g/t Au for 251,000oz

Trident resources have increased by 24% but grade has been reduced from the Vango estimates

Trident Definitive Feasibility Study is well progressed; Reserves expected to be released with this study in 2024

Release of this updated Mineral Resource estimate is an important step in Catalyst's process to rebuilding the foundations of the Plutonic Gold Belt. This release follows Catalyst's installation of a new operating team at the Plutonic gold mine. The combination of the two is responsible for the improved operating performance of the mine

PERTH, Australia, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Australian gold producer, Catalyst Metals Limited (Catalyst or the Company) (ASX: CYL) is pleased to provide an updated Mineral Resource & Ore Reserve statement for its Plutonic Gold Mine, and an updated Mineral Resource for the Trident deposit.

Importantly, the updates presented in this release relate to the Plutonic Main and Trident deposits only. The Plutonic Gold Belt hosts numerous open pit and underground deposits that have previously been estimated by other competent persons. Those deposits are yet to be re-estimated.

Figure 1: Trident long section showing proposed development designs (CNW Group/Catalyst Metals LTD.) Figure 2: Plutonic ore body with Mineral Resource outlines (CNW Group/Catalyst Metals LTD.) Map (CNW Group/Catalyst Metals LTD.)

Catalyst's MD & CEO, James Champion de Crespigny, said: "We are pleased to have this important body of work behind us. Such estimates are the foundation of any operation. This update provides our team with the comfort to execute on the mine plan.

The updated Trident Resource estimate is different than expected. It now reflects what Catalyst believe is an improved approach to estimating such a deposit, updated drilling and a lower cut-off grade in this higher gold price environment. This Resource will form the basis of the pending Trident Definitive Feasibility Study.

That study is well progressed and the Company remains committed to its development as quickly as possible given its high grade and the latent mill capacity that currently exists at Plutonic.

Catalyst took control at Plutonic a little over five months ago and in that time there have been considerable changes. This is but another step in that transition plan as we set the company up for 2024."

Plutonic Underground Mineral Resources

The Mineral Resource & Ore Reserve sit within the existing mining footprint and do not include virgin zones. Importantly, Table 1 below refers specifically to the Plutonic Main orebody and does not include any of the satellite deposits within the consolidated tenement package. The previously reported NI 43-101 Ore Reserves and Mineral Resources for the Plutonic Operations included satellite deposits such as Plutonic East, Plutonic West, Hermes and Perch. These remain NI 43-101 compliant, but not JORC compliant. Catalyst will review these estimates in due course.

The Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves for the Plutonic Underground Mine and Mineral Resources for the Trident deposit have been estimated for the first time by Catalyst following the acquisition of Superior Gold and Vango Mining.

Catalyst undertook a comprehensive re-estimation and classification of the entire Plutonic Main deposit Mineral Resources. This included the Plutonic Main underground and open pit areas. The previously reported Plutonic Main open pit Mineral Resources have now been incorporated into the Plutonic underground Mineral Resource inventory. Further work is planned to re-evaluate the Plutonic Main open pit potential.

The re-estimation and classification of the Plutonic Mineral Resources followed an extensive review of the geological and geostatistical behaviour of the Plutonic mineralisation together with mine production reconciliation. Catalyst has implemented a resource modelling technique that is well suited to estimating highly variable gold mineralisation. The modelling parameters were optimised so that the final Mineral Resource was well aligned with recent and historic production reconciliation performance.

The Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for Plutonic Underground has been undertaken with a focus on delineating areas of the MRE with Reaonable Prospects for Eventual Economic Extraction (RPEEE). Catalyst has applied a approach to historic mining depletion to ensure that the inclusion of potential 'un-mineable' remnants has been minimised. In addition, an underground Shape Optimiser (SO) evaluation has been applied to ensure that only cohesive groups of blocks that satisfy RPEEE are included in the MRE.

The previous combined Measured, Indicated and Inferred NI 43-101 MRE as at 31 December 2021 for the Plutonic Main underground and open pit contained 4.97Moz. Mine production depletion to 30 November 2023 accounts for 123Koz whilst changed modelling methodology, resource classification, historic depletion and RPEEE considerations has accounted for a reduction of 3.2Moz. A high proportion of the resource reduction is due to a grade reduction from 4.6g/t Au (Measured and Indicated) and 5.2g/t (Inferred) to the current 2.9g/t Au (and 2.6g/t Au for Inferred). Following is a summary of the Plutonic Underground Mineral Resources, as at 30 November 2023.

Table 1: Plutonic MRE (at 1.5g/t Au cut-off)

Classification Tonnes (Mt) Grade (g/t Au) Ounces (Koz) Indicated 17.2 2.9 1,592 Inferred 0.74 2.6 62 Total 17.9 2.9 1,654

Notes:



1.

Mineral Resource estimated at 1.5g/t Au cut-off and reported within underground Shape Optimiser (SO). SO inputs include:

Incremental Stope Mining Cost = AUD$60/t; Processing Costs = AUD$31/t ore; Site Administration Cost = AUD$23/t ore; Metallurgical Recovery = 84%; Royalties = 2.5%; Gold Price = AUD$2,800/oz; Minimum mining width = 3m

2.

Numbers may not add up due to rounding



Plutonic Underground Ore Reserves

Following is a summary of the Plutonic Underground Ore Reserves, as at 01 January 2024.

Table 2: Plutonic Ore Reserves

Classification Tonnes (Mt) Grade (g/t Au) Ounces (Koz) Probable 5.2 2.9 490 Total 5.2 2.9 490

Notes:



1.

Ore Reserve estimated at 2.0g/t Au cut-off; 2.

Reserves are a combination of detailed mine design and Stope Optimised shapes. SO inputs include: Incremental Stoping and Grade Control Cost = AUD$60/t; Processing Costs = AUD$31/t ore; Site Administration Cost = AUD$23/t ore; Metallurgical Recovery = 84%; Royalties = 2.5%; Gold Price = AUD$2,600/oz; Minimum mining width = 3m, with a 1m dilution halo applied to Hangingwall and Footwall. 3.

Mining modifying factors of 10% dilution is applied to the in-situ stope tonnes, and ore recovery of 95% is applied. 4.

Numbers may not add up due to rounding



As with the Mineral Resources, almost all of the reduction in ounces is due to a reduction of grade from 3.7g/t Au to 2.9g/t Au which is considered to be a more reliable estimate of mine grade going forward.

Trident Mineral Resources

The Trident deposit sits approximately 25km to the north-east of the Plutonic Gold Mine and the planned development in 2024 has been made possible by the recently completed consolidation of the Plutonic Gold Belt.

The estimation approach for the updated Trident MRE was primarily based on domains defined by geological, structural and mineralisation characteristics. This differs from the previous MRE approach where the continuity and volume of estimation domains were largely subjected to pseudo economic and mining criteria at an elevated cut-off grade. The Catalyst estimation approach has allowed the full grade-tonnage distribution of the mineralised domains, including additional lower grade material, to be incorporated into the MRE.

The Trident MRE has been undertaken with a focus on delineating areas of the MRE with Reasonable Prospects for Eventual Economic Extraction (RPEEE). An underground Shape Optimiser (SO) evaluation has been applied to ensure that only cohesive groups of blocks that satisfy RPEEE are included in the MRE.

In July 2023, Catalyst released a Scoping Study assuming an underground development at Trident, with ore transported and processed through the Plutonic mill (see ASX announcement entitled "Trident Scoping Study demonstrates Plutonic's potential" dated 19 July 2023). The Scoping Study utilised the previous Trident MRE (see ASX announcement entitled "Marymia Gold Project Mineral Resource  Updated" dated 22 February 2023). Catalyst considers that the updated MRE would result in changes to the results published in the Scoping Study. Updated results will be made available with the release of the DFS which is expected to occur in January 2024.

Following is a summary of the Trident Mineral Resource Estimate, as at 30 November 2023.

Table 3: Trident MRE

Deposit Measured Indicated Inferred Total Tonnes

(Mt) Grade

(g/t

Au) Ounces (koz) Tonnes (Mt) Grade

(g/t

Au) Ounces (koz) Tonnes

(Mt) Grade

(g/t

Au) Ounces (koz) Tonnes

(Mt) Grade

(g/t

Au) Ounces (koz) Total - - - 1.6 5.0 257 2.6 3.0 251 4.2 3.7 508

Notes:



1.

Mineral Resource reported within Shape Optimiser (SO) shapes at 2.0g/t Au cut-off. SO inputs include:

Mining Cost = AUD$101.33/t ore; Processing and Surface Haulage Costs = AUD$38.40/t ore; Site Administration Cost = AUD$5.58/t ore; Metallurgical Recovery = 83.5%; Royalties = 2.5%; Gold Price = AUD$2,800/oz

Minimum mining width = 2m

2.

Numbers may not add up due to rounding

This announcement has been approved for release by the Board of Directors of Catalyst Metals Limited.

Competent person's statement

The information in this announcement that relates to Plutonic Mineral Resources has been compiled under the supervision of Mr Michael Millad and Mr Andrew Grieve. Mr Millad is a Director and Principal Geologist/Geostatistician at Cube Consulting Pty Ltd, and a Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists. Mr Grieve is a Principal Geologist at Cube Consulting Pty Ltd, and a Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists. Mr Millad and Mr Grieve have sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity that was undertaken to qualify as Competent Persons, as defined in the 2012 Edition of the 'Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (The Joint Ore Reserves Committee Code  JORC 2012 Edition). Mr Millad and Mr Grieve consent to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on information in the form and context in which it appears.

The information in this report that relates to Ore Reserves is based on and fairly represents information and supporting documentation compiled by Cathy Barclay BEng (Mining Engineering), a Competent Person who is a Member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Cathy Barclay is a full-time employee of Catalyst Metals. She is a shareholder in Catalyst Metals and is entitled to participate in the Catalyst Performance Rights Plan. Cathy Barclay has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (JORC 2012).

Cathy Barclay consents to the inclusion in the report of the matters based on her information in the form and context in which they are presented. This Ore Reserve estimate has been compiled in accordance with the guidelines defined in the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (JORC 2012).

The information in this announcement that relates to Trident Mineral Resources has been compiled under the supervision of Mr Marcus Osiejak. Mr Osiejak is a Senior Resource Geologist at Cube Consulting Pty Ltd, and a Member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy . Mr Osiejak has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity that was undertaken to qualify as a Competent Persons, as defined in the 2012 Edition of the 'Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (The Joint Ore Reserves Committee Code  JORC 2012 Edition). Mr Osiejak consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on information in the form and context in which it appears.

JORC 2012 Mineral Resources and Reserves

Catalyst confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original market announcements and that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates in the relevant market announcements continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company confirms that the form and context in which the Competent Persons findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcements.

ABOUT CATALYST METALS

Catalyst Metals is an ASX listed gold producer and explorer. Catalyst has a multi-asset strategy and controls three high grade, highly prospective and strategic gold belts in Australia :

: In Western Australia , the Plutonic Gold Project, which holds the Plutonic Gold Mine and +40km of neighbouring, high-grade, underexplored tenements. The project hosts a JORC Indicated Mineral Resource of 1.6Moz at 2.9g/t Au and Inferred Mineral Resources of 0.06Moz at 2.6g/t Au.

, the Plutonic Gold Project, which holds the Plutonic Gold Mine and +40km of neighbouring, high-grade, underexplored tenements. The project hosts a JORC Indicated Mineral Resource of 1.6Moz at 2.9g/t Au and Inferred Mineral Resources of 0.06Moz at 2.6g/t Au. In Victoria , a large, contiguous and dominant Four Eagles Gold Project, covering 75 kilometres of strike length immediately north of the proven +22Moz Bendigo goldfields and near Agnico Eagle's high grade Fosterville gold mine; and

, a large, contiguous and dominant Four Eagles Gold Project, covering 75 kilometres of strike length immediately north of the proven +22Moz Bendigo goldfields and near Agnico Eagle's high grade Fosterville gold mine; and In Tasmania , a strategic tenement package covering 25 kilometres of the under explored Henty fault and operates the high-grade Henty Gold Mine which has produced 1.4Moz of gold at a head grade of 8.9 g/t Au.

MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE (Plutonic)

Cube Consulting Pty Ltd (Cube), was commissioned by Catalyst to prepare a Mineral Resource estimate (MRE) for the Plutonic Gold Mine (the Project), located in Western Australia.

Cube considered that data collection techniques are largely consistent with industry good practice and suitable for use in the preparation of a MRE to be reported in accordance with the JORC Code. Available quality control (QC) data supports use of the input data.

The Plutonic deposit comprises eight individual mine areas (Timor, Pacific, A134, Cortez, Caribbean, Caspian, Indian and Baltic).

A three-dimensional (3D) block model representing the mineralisation was created for each mine area using Leapfrog and Surpac software. Diamond core and underground face samples were used to interpolate gold grades into blocks. The grade estimation method combines Categorical Indicator Kriging (CIK) to define broad estimation domains, together with applying distance limiting at chosen grade thresholds to restrict the influence of the high grade and extreme grade values during grade interpolation. The block model was validated by visual checks, statistical comparisons, and swath plots to ensure that the block model was a good representation of the drillhole composite data.

The Mineral Resource is considered to have reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction (RPEEE) given the access to critical infrastructure, the volume and grade of mineralisation available for mining and the RPEEE criteria which have been applied prior to reporting the Mineral Resource.

On Figure 1, the individual zones that comprise the Mineral Resources are presented in an isometric projection.

The following is a material information summary relating to the MRE, consistent with ASX Listing Rule 5.8.1 requirements. Further details are provided in JORC Table 1, which is included as Appendix A.

1. Geology and Geological Interpretation

The Plutonic gold deposit is located within the Archaean Plutonic Well Greenstone Belt, an elongate NE trending belt within the Marymia Inlier. The Marymia Inlier is an Archaean basement remnant within the Proterozoic Capricorn Orogen, and comprises two mineralised greenstone belts (Plutonic Well and Baumgarten greenstone belts), with surrounding granite and gneissic complexes. The Capricorn Orogen is situated between the Pilbara and Yilgarn cratons and is interpreted to be the result of the oblique collision of these two Archaean cratons in the early Proterozoic.

Gold mineralisation occurs in a large number of deposits and prospects in the Belt, with the main deposit at the Plutonic Gold Mine. Mineralisation regularly occurs as shallowly dipping, layer parallel lodes, although steep lodes and minor quartz-vein-hosted deposits also occur. Regionally within the greenstone belt, mineralised host rocks vary from amphibolites to ultramafics and banded iron formation (BIF). Lateritic and supergene enrichment are common throughout the Belt and has been mined locally. Biotite, arsenopyrite, and lesser pyrite/pyrrhotite are common minerals generally accepted to be associated with gold mineralisation.

Mineralisation at Plutonic Gold Mine is characterised by a series of steep to flat-lying, stacked replacement-style lodes, individually up to five metres wide that are hosted within ductile shear zones oriented slightly oblique to stratigraphy. Lodes are preferentially restricted within the top half of the Mine Mafic, which is a sequence of upper-greenschist to lower amphibolite grade basaltic flows of variable thickness sandwiched between the hanging wall and footwall ultramafic units. Lodes are characterised by intense banding, defined by crude mineral segregation and mineral alignment. Gold where visible, is commonly associated with grey quartz veins and fine-grained arsenopyrite and pyrrhotite.

The main style of gold mineralisation (Plutonic brown-lode) typically occurs as thin (~1  3 m wide) lodes that consist predominantly of quartz-biotite-amphibole-titanite-epidote-carbonate-tourmaline-arsenopyrite-pyrrhotite  chalcopyrite  scheelite  gold. Visible gold is considered to have occurred at a late-stage during the evolution of the deposit as it is largely undeformed and overprints most, if not all, of the minerals and fabrics. It is typically associated with thin, discontinuous quartz-calc-silicate veins within the brown-lodes. Where these gold-bearing zones are well developed, they tend to be near-parallel to the stratigraphy as marked by the rare metasedimentary horizons and to the dominant foliation, which is also typically parallel to metasediment horizons. Geochemistry suggests that these lodes developed on the boundary between mafic units or are focused along or adjacent to minor metasedimentary units within the Mine Mafic unit. Lodes may be rich in arsenopyrite or pyrrhotite, and while arsenopyrite is a good indicator of mineralisation, it may not be present in all mineralisation.

2. Drilling Techniques

Over its 33-year production history, the Plutonic deposit has been sampled using numerous drilling and sampling techniques by Catalyst Metals Limited and previous operators. Drilling and sampling techniques by previous operators is assumed to be to industry standard at that time.

The sampling database has been compiled from information collected when the Project was under ownership of numerous companies including (listed from most recent):

Catalyst Metals (2023 to current)

Superior Gold (2016 to 2023)

Northern Star (2014 to 2016)

Barrick Gold (2001 to 2014)

(2001 to 2014) Homestake (1999 to 2001)

Resolute (1994 to 1999)

Battle Mountain Australia Inc. (Pre 1994)

Inco (1969-1971 and 1972-1976)

For Mineral Resource estimation, the Plutonic main underground area has been predominantly based on diamond drilling (DD) from surface and underground platforms and underground rock chip face samples (FS). Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling makes up a small proportion of the data set and has been carried out at the Plutonic main deposit for delineation of open pit material.

Diamond core diameters include BQ (36.4 mm), BTW (42 mm), LTK60 (43.9 mm), NQ (47.6 mm), NQ2 (50.7 mm). RC holes were drilled with face hammers and were sampled at one metre down hole intervals. Face chip samples are completed by the mine geologists. The sampling is taken by chipping the face into calico bags with definition by lithological boundaries.

Underground hole collar locations are picked up regularly by site surveyors. Multi-shot cameras are used for down-hole survey. Face chip samples are spatially positioned within underground development voids which are picked up regularly by site surveyors.

3. Sampling and Subsampling

Exploration DD core is sawn in half along the orientation lines, with half the sample being submitted for assay and the remaining half being retained for reference. Grade control DD core is whole core sampled and sent for analysis. DD core samples were taken at 1 m intervals or at geological boundaries.

RC samples were collected for each metre drilled and passed through a cyclone and riffle splitter to produce a two kg to four kg assay into calico bags.

Rock chip FS are completed by the mine geologists. The sampling is taken by chipping the face into calico bags with definition by lithological boundaries. FS samples are taken perpendicular to the lode orientation in the face. The face sample locations are marked up and measured from fixed survey points.

DD recovery is not noted specifically, though core is locked in, and meter marked carefully. Discrepancies to core blocks are brought up with the drill contractor. Occasionally core loss blocks are inserted. Overall drill core recovery is very high due to the competent nature of the ground.

Rock chip FS recoveries are not relevant in this instance. No RC drilling has taken place at Plutonic for several years and impact on the Mineral Resource would be minimal.

4. Sample Analysis Method

The Plutonic Gold Mine has been in operation since 1990 following discovery in 1988. QAQC procedures have changed throughout that period. The current underground Mineral Resources have been identified over a long period of time with a number of companies. All high confidence Mineral Resources are based dominantly on underground DD and FS completed in the last 14 years.

In recent years, for DD and FS, gold concentration is determined by fire assay using the lead collection technique with a 40gm sample charge weight. An AAS (Plutonic site laboratory) or ICP (ALS and Bureau Veritas) finish. A Pulverising and Leach (PAL) method was introduced to the Plutonic site laboratory in 2005. Underground GC samples are initially assayed by PAL and where the result is greater than 0.5 g/t Au the sample is re-analysed by 40gm fire assay and the fire assay result is retained for grade estimation purposes. It has been shown that the use of PAL assays is likely to have negligible influence on the Mineral Resource.

Sample preparation procedures for DD and FS includes:

1-4 hours drying at 150C depending on moisture content;

Crush 85% < 3mm  Essa jaw crusher or rotary Boyd crusher;

Riffle split 50:50 to<1kg;

Pulverise ~700-750g to 90% passing 75m in Labtechnics LM2;

Scoop 250-300g.

Scoop to subset to 40gm for fire assay.

Quality control procedures for DD and FS includes:

FS  blanks added to each face sample with ore zones;

DD barren wash and blanks added after each ore interval;

Crusher duplicates taken at 1:40;

Pulp duplicates taken at 1:40.

Sample preparation protocols and sample sizes are considered appropriate for the style of mineralisation encountered and should provide representative results.

Certified Reference Material (CRM's) are submitted every 20 samples for DD and once per shift for FS (approx. 1 in 15 samples). CRM's are of similar grade tenor to those expected in the sampling. The CRM insertion rate ensures that there are at least two CRM's per assay batch. CRM's are selected based on their grade range and mineralogical properties with an emphasis on sulphide ores.

Blanks are inserted every 20 samples for DD and for FS they are inserted after any face that contains mineralisation.

Conclusions from the MRE Competent Person include:

Results indicate that the QAQC performance is sufficient for using the data for an underground Mineral Resource Estimate;

Element of risk in using PAL due to incomplete digestion;

Site laboratory performance (the majority of the samples) is poorer than off-site commercial laboratories (ALS and Bureau Veritas) due to contamination and percentage of CRM failure;

Site laboratory shows poorer performance at low levels of Au (0.4 - 0.8 g/t), but effect on underground Mineral Resources likely to be minimal;

Precision of CRMs for site laboratory poorer than manufacturer.

5. Resource Estimation Methodology

Plutonic gold mineralisation is almost entirely hosted within the Mine Mafic Unit (MMA) and characterised by a significant population of high to extreme gold grades that demonstrate very poor spatial continuity (only a few meters at best). Raw Coefficients of Variation (CoV) are typically in the order of 15-30, indicating extreme statistical variability.

The estimation method developed for the MRE combines Categorical Indicator Kriging (CIK) to define broad estimation domains, together with applying distance limiting at chosen grade thresholds to restrict the influence of the high grade and extreme grade values during grade interpolation.

Prior to estimation, a closely spaced set of structural surfaces are developed in LeapFrog reflecting the primary controls on mineralisation within the MMA. A dip and dip-direction of each triangle facets is imported into the Surpac block model to provide information for dynamic search and variogram model orientation during grade interpolation. Dynamic estimation is applied for estimating the CIK indicators and gold grades.

All DD and FS data are composited to 1m downhole and data within dolerite dykes or vein zones are removed. Composited data was split into the eight mine areas.

Two Categorical Indicator values are determined for each mine area:

A low-grade (LG) indicator to differentiate between background 'waste' and low-tenor mineralisation  around 0.5 g/t Au.

A high-grade (HG) indicator to define broad areas of consistent higher-tenor mineralisation  typically between 1.1 g/t and 1.7 g/t Au.

Indicator variograms were modelled for the LG and HG thresholds for all mine areas. The indicator variograms for both grade thresholds exhibited a moderate nugget effect and demonstrated well-structured continuity up to 30m. The CIK indicators were estimated using Ordinary Kriging into a finely gridded block model with block dimensions of 1.25m x 1.25m x 1.25m. The small block size for the indicator process is beneficial for creating categorical sub-domains at resolution which can be used to accurately back-flag composite data.

Three categorical sub-domains were generated for low-grade (LG), medium-grade (MG) and high-grade (HG) areas. The HG sub-domain was based on an indicator probability threshold of 0.35 and the LG sub-domain was based on an indicator probability threshold of 0.65. The MG sub-domain is assigned to blocks that do not satisfy either the HG or LG sub-domain criteria.

The three categorical block model sub-domains (HG, MG and LG) were used to 'back-flag' the 1m composites from each mine area, thus creating a separate composite file for each sub-domain.

Standardised assay top-cuts are applied to the composite files as follows:

HG = 300 g/t Au

MG = 40 g/t Au

LG = 20 g/t Au

The assay top-cuts were generally above the 99th percentile of the distribution and were aimed at globally limiting extreme values only. Top-cuts are not used as the primary tool to control metal risk. The use of grade thresholds and distance limiting is considered a more objective and influential method in controlling metal risk, while better reflecting the actual localised occurrence of discontinuous high-grade gold mineralisation.

Grade variograms were modelled for the LG, MG and HG sub-domains for all mine areas. The HG grade variograms exhibited a very high nugget effect (75-82%) with maximum ranges of only a few meters (2.9-3.9m). Grade variography undertaken on the HG domain confirms the extremely variable nature of Plutonic mineralisation. As expected, grade variography on the MG and LG domains resulted in lower nuggets effects and longer ranges. Given the similarities between the spatial characteristics between all mine areas, it was decided to use an average gold grade variogram for each domain across all mine areas.

Grade thresholds for distance limiting were determined for each mine area from log-probability plots. Initial distance limits were determined by undertaking indicator variography at each grade threshold value. Distance limits were subsequently optimised following a detailed backward-looking mill reconciliation using mine stope voids for the period January 2023 to August 2023 (550Kt).

Prior to grade estimation, sub-domain codes from the 1.25m resolution block model are imported into a 2.5m x 2.5m x 2.5m resolution model and the proportion of LG, MG and HG is calculated for each 2.5m block. Grade estimation for the LG, MG and HG domains was undertaken in Surpac software using Ordinary Kriging with grade threshold distance limiting. Search routines and variogram orientations are drawn from the pre-populated dynamic search information recorded in each block.

Final block grades at a 2.5m block resolution were calculated by weighting the estimated grades for each sub-domain by the relevant domain proportion.

The parent estimation block size was 2.5m x 2.5m x 2.5m. A minimum of 3 and maximum of 12 (1 m composite) samples per block were used. Block discretisation was set at 3 E x 3 N x 3 RL points (per parent block).

A standardised search ellipse of 25m x 25m x 6.25m was used. Octant restrictions were not used.

Typical data spacing varied from 3m x 3m to >40m x 40m.

The model was validated by comparing statistics of the estimated blocks against the composited sample data; visual examination of the of the block grades versus assay data in section; swath plots; and reconciliation against previous production.

Bulk density was directly assigned by oxidation type and rock type:

Fresh MMA and Ultramafic = 2.9 t/m3

Transitional MMA and Ultramafic = 2.2 t/m3

Oxide MMA and Ultramafic = 1.8 t/m3

Fresh Quartz = 2.5 t/m3

Transported/Laterite = 2.1 t/m3

Pit Backfill and Surface Dumps = 1.8 t/m3

Mining depletion to June 30th 2023 was applied to the model. Mining depletion is represented as a 'void proportion' at a 2.5m block resolution.

6. Classification Criteria

The Mineral Resource has been classified following due consideration of all criteria contained in Section 1, Section 2 and Section 3 of JORC 2012 Table 1.

The supplied drilling database represents an appropriate record of the drilling and sampling undertaken at the project. In general drilling, surveying, sampling, analytical methods and controls are considered appropriate for the style of mineralisation under consideration.

The continuity and volume of the mineralised domains has been established by surface and underground diamond drilling, together with extensive underground development and production history.

The estimation method and the associated search and interpolation parameters used are considered appropriate for estimation of the Mineral Resources and have been calibrated to recent production reconciliation.

Cube has considered all the relevant criteria and has classified the estimated Mineral Resources as Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resource.

The portions of the MRE classified as Indicated are typically based on drill spacing less than or equal to 30 m x 30 m. This drill spacing is appropriate for defining the continuity and volume of the mineralised domains and estimating robust global Mineral Resources. Approximately 85% of the Indicated portion of the MRE has been drilled at closer then 30 m x 30 m and 70% of the Indicated portion has been drilled at better than 24 m x 24 m.

The portions of the MRE classified as Inferred typically represent peripheral areas of the deposit where geological continuity is present but not consistently confirmed by 30 m x 30 m drilling or closer.

Further considerations of resource classification include; data type and quality, geological understanding, amount of historical development and stoping, and historical and recent production reconciliation performance.

The Mineral Resource classification appropriately reflects the view of the Competent Person.

7. Reasonable Prospects for Eventual Economic Extraction

The Plutonic Gold Mine has operated continuously for 33 years. The Mineral Resource is considered to have reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction (RPEEE) given the access to critical infrastructure, the volume and grade of mineralisation available for mining and the RPEEE criteria which have been applied prior to reporting the Mineral Resource.

Reporting Cut-off Grades

The Plutonic underground Mineral Resources are reported at a cut-off grade of 1.5 g/t Au. The cut-off grade has been derived from current mining and processing costs and metallurgical parameters. Inputs into the cut-off grade calculation include:

Incremental Stoping and Grade Control Cost = AUD$60/t

Processing Costs = AUD$31/t ore

Site Administration Cost = AUD$23/t ore

Metallurgical Recovery = 84%

Royalties = 2.5%

Gold Price = AUD$2,800/oz

In addition to applying a cut-off grade of 1.5 g/t Au, the Mineral Resource has been reported within an underground Shape Optimiser (SO) evaluation from the undiluted and depleted resource model. SO input parameters include a minimum mining width of 3m, minimum stope length of 5m, stope height of 15m.

8. Mining and Metallurgical Methods and Parameters

Plutonic is an operating mine and there are no material metallurgical issues that are known to exist.

MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE (Trident)

Cube Consulting Pty Ltd (Cube) was commissioned by Catalyst to prepare a Mineral Resource estimate (MRE) for the Trident Gold Deposit (the Project), located in Western Australia.

Cube considered that data collection techniques are largely consistent with industry good practice and suitable for use in the preparation of a MRE to be reported in accordance with the JORC Code. Available quality control (QC) data supports use of the input data.

The Trident deposit comprises fourteen mineralised domains that have been estimated into a single block model based on all available data at 5th September 2023.

A three-dimensional (3D) block model representing the mineralisation was created using Leapfrog and Surpac software. Surface Diamond Drilling (DD) core and Reverse Circulation (RC) chips were used to interpolate gold grades into blocks using Ordinary Kriging. The block model was validated by visual checks, statistical comparisons, and swath plots to ensure that the block model was a good representation of the drillhole composite data.

The Mineral Resource is considered to have reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction (RPEEE) given the access to critical infrastructure, the volume and grade of mineralisation available for mining and the RPEEE criteria which have been applied prior to reporting the Mineral Resource.

On Figure 1, the Trident Mineral Resources are presented in an isometric projection.

The following is a material information summary relating to the MRE, consistent with ASX Listing Rule 5.8.1 requirements. Further details are provided in JORC Table 1, which is included as Appendix A.

1. Geology and Geological Interpretation

The Trident gold deposit is located within the Archaean Plutonic Well Greenstone Belt, an elongate NE trending belt within the Marymia Inlier. The Marymia Inlier is an Archaean basement remnant within the Proterozoic Capricorn Orogen, and comprises two mineralised greenstone belts (Plutonic Well and Baumgarten greenstone belts), with surrounding granite and gneissic complexes. The Capricorn Orogen is situated between the Pilbara and Yilgarn cratons and is interpreted to be the result of the oblique collision of these two Archaean cratons in the early Proterozoic.

It is a structurally controlled, orogenic, mesothermal (amphibolite metamorphic facies) gold deposit hosted by ultramafic rocks that are part of strike extensions to the Plutonic Gold Mine stratigraphy. The gold deposit is specifically hosted by shallow to moderate dipping, ultramafic tremolite  phlogopite (mica) schist, immediately overlying serpentinised ultramafic units, derived from higher MgO ultramafic volcanics.

High-grade gold zones are best developed within the shallow dipping ultramafic tremolite  phlogopite schist where it is bent into a concave flexure, in the hanging wall of steep, north-westerly dipping fault structures. Vertical "dragging" movement against these steeply dipping faults appears to have played a role in dilating the cleavage of the ultramafic schist, resulting in mineralisation and alteration between the dilated cleavage planes. The steeply dipping faults also host gold mineralisation.

Gold mineralisation is associated with potassic, phlogopite mica alteration and has a low proportion of quartz and sulphides, including minor pyrrhotite, pentlandite, chalcopyrite and, directly associated with gold, bismuthinite and rare bismuth tellurides. Rarely observed gold grains (in microscopy) are predominantly fine (<50 micron) but free and/or attached to, and rarely occluded within, sulphide grains.

2. Drilling Techniques

The sampling database for Trident includes data collected by diamond drilling (DD) and Reverse Circulation (RC) techniques. The sampling database has been compiled from information collected when the Project was under ownership of numerous companies including (listed from most recent):

Catalyst Metals (2022 to current)

Vango (2013 to 2023)

Dampier Gold (2012 to 2013)

(2012 to 2013) Barrick Gold (2001 to 2012)

(2001 to 2012) Homestake (1999 to 2001)

Resolute (1994 to 1999).

Battle Mountain Australia Inc. (Pre 1994)

Inco (1969-1971 and 1972-1976)

For the most recent drilling completed by Catalyst and Vango, planned drill hole collars were pegged with a DGPS and marked with wooden pegs hammered into the ground and flagged with high visibility flagging tape.

On completion of drilling, the actual drill hole collar position is measured by survey staff using a DGPS working off a network control of survey stations, to an accuracy of 20 mm from the nearest survey station. These coordinates replace the planned coordinates in the geological database. These collar co-ordinates are then uploaded to the database, where a transformation is performed on them, where the holes are rotated to populate the local grid co-ordinates (Trident Local Grid).

The survey station network meets the Mine Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995, section 3.49, where the accuracy of a survey must be not less than 1:5000.

The collar locations of historic drill holes were validated from geological logging information from annual reports and the original database when Vango acquired the tenure.

The majority of drill holes used in the resource estimate have been accurately surveyed by qualified surveyors using DGPS. Downhole surveys have been conducted at regular intervals using industry-standard equipment.

Some magnetic units have affected the azimuth readings where single shot cameras were used and these records have not been used. Many holes have been surveyed using Gyro tools.

All Vango/Catalyst holes used in the resource estimate have some form of down hole survey. Recent (2023) downhole survey data was collected by Westdrill using an Axis Mining Technology Champ North Seeking Gyro tool. Surveys are conducted at EOH using a north seeking gyroscope reading every 5 m. If early drilling finds strong hole deviation, then surveys are conducted during drilling (collar, 30 m, 60 m, 90 m etc to EOH). Survey deviation is supervised by the geologist onsite, with major deviation discussed with the driller at the time.

Previous downhole survey data was collected using a REFLEX gyro tool and historically with Eastman cameras, with follow-up downhole surveys carried out by Surtron using gyroscopic survey equipment. Historical downhole surveys were reviewed and verified where information was available through direct comparison within the database.

3. Sampling and Subsampling

Diamond drilling assays are from mostly half core and minor quarter core, NQ2 and HQ size core. This is considered to be sufficient material for a representative sample. Core samples were taken at 1 m intervals or at geological boundaries.

RC drilling assays are from 1 m samples split on the cyclone for the ultramafics. 4 m composites from these 1 m splits are taken in the cover sequence. Historical RC samples were collected as 4 m composite spear samples. Mineralised zones were sampled at 1 m intervals using a 1/8 riffle splitter.

Recovery in diamond drilling is based on measured core returned for each 3 m. RC drilling was bagged on 1 m intervals and an estimate of sample recovery has been made based on the size of each sample.

No assessment of RC chip sample recoveries was undertaken on historical data however a comprehensive historical review of sampling procedures was undertaken which indicates that standard procedures where enacted to ensure minimal sample loss. Where information on the recoveries has been recorded, they have been consistent with those noted by recent drilling.

4. Sample Analysis Method

Information sourced indicates that several analytical laboratories have been used over the history of the Trident Deposit, and analytical methodologies have varied slightly over time. Typically fire assay with determination by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) has been used. Where records have been found the assay protocols were as follows:

1995: 230 RC pre-collar and 1473 core sample submitted to Minlab, Malaga for Au Fire Assay.

1996: Minlab, Malaga for Au Fire Assay.

1997: Minilab, Malaga RC - Aqua Regia check samples and standards, DD - Fire Assays.

1998: Minilab, Malaga RC - Aqua Regia check samples and standards, DD - Fire Assays.

2002: Samples were assayed for gold and arsenic at Amdel Laboratory ( Perth ); gold analysis was carried out using a 50 g charge fire assay with AAS finish (detection limit of 0.01 ppm).

); gold analysis was carried out using a 50 g charge fire assay with AAS finish (detection limit of 0.01 ppm). 2007 to 2010: Assay sample preparation comprised the crushing of RC chips and half-core, splitting and pulverising 500 - 800 grams to 90% passing 106 m at the Plutonic Gold Mine laboratory. A representative 30 gram charge was assayed for Au by Aqua Regia with Atomic Adsorption Spectrometer grade determination. The lower detection cut-off limit was 0.01 ppm. All samples reporting greater than 0.3 g/t and other selected samples were then forwarded to Amdel Laboratories for analysis by fire assay, using a 40 gram charge. Five percent of samples sent to Amdel were forwarded to Genalysis for further check fire assaying. Five percent of all RC samples were submitted to the PGM laboratory for check sample preparation and assaying.

2012: Drill chip samples were dispatched to the Genalysis Laboratory in Perth for analytical work. The chips were subject to a SSMG grind time of four minutes and the resultant pulp was assayed to Genalysis's Fire Assay Standard FA25 AAS, RC and diamond FA25 SAA and RAB were assayed for multi elements.

Recent samples were analysed at ALS Malaga using a 50 g Fire Assay method. Samples were dried, crushed and pulverised prior to analysis.

Although sample collection, sample preparation, sample logging and analytical techniques have varied over the Project's history, all can be considered as industry standard at the time. The amount of QC data that was collected has also varied over the Project's history, but overall is considered as being acceptable to support the MRE.

Details relating to drilling techniques, quality assurance (QA) protocols and quality control (QC) results for data gathered prior to 2013 was documented and validated through an extensive WAMEX review. 1,266 historical Standards were analysed with the results showing no major issues. Overall historical blank performance was considered acceptable, with no evidence of contamination observable in the results. 100% of samples were within the pass limit (5x the detection limit)

For recent drilling, a technical summary that outlined the independent performance analysis of the (QAQC) samples routinely inserted as part of the RC and DD operations at the Trident Gold Deposit was undertaken by Cube Consulting in August 2023. 2,334 QC materials were analysed, with no issues discovered.

5. Resource Estimation Methodology

All geological domains used in the MRE were constructed by Cube using Leapfrog software. Block modelling and grade interpolation were carried out by Cube Consulting using Surpac software. Statistical analysis was carried out by Cube Consulting using Snowden Supervisor software.

All drillhole assay samples were flagged according to the geological and mineralisation envelopes. Sample populations were statistically analysed, and estimation domains defined. Assay top cuts were applied to 1 m composites prior to grade interpolation.

Quantitative kriging neighbourhood analysis was undertaken to assess the effect of changing key kriging neighbourhood parameters on block grade estimates. Kriging efficiency and slope of regression were determined for a range of block sizes, minimum/maximum samples, search dimensions and discretisation grids.

Within each domain, an Ordinary Kriging (OK) or Invese Distance Squared (ID) estimate of gold grade was produced using the cut composite data. The ellipsoid search parameters were based on the variogram ranges, with the search ellipse dimensions similar to the variogram range, with anisotropies retained. Due to the orientation of some of the drill holes in relation to the mineralisation a maximum number of samples per drill hole was applied to a number of lodes. Hard boundaries were used for the estimate.

A minimum of 8 and maximum of 16 (1 m composite) samples per block were used for the estimation, with the minimums and maximums established through independent KNA on each major domain. Block discretisation was set at 5 E x 5 N x 3 RL points (per parent block).

Octant restrictions were not used, and estimates were into parent blocks, not sub-blocks.

Lodes estimated by OK used search ellipse rotation directions as determined by dynamic surfaces.

Subsequent search passes were applied to domains when blocks did not estimate at the first pass.

When appropriate, dynamic anisotropy was employed to ensure undulation in the mineralisation relating to the folded nature of the stratigraphy was captured by the search ellipses (i.e. rotating search ellipses).

Estimating using OK in domains with a mixed sample population can result in the higher-grade samples having a greater spatial influence than is warranted. As such, distance limiting of grades above a threshold over a certain distance was used. This resulted in the higher grades being more locally representative and not having an influence over distance.

After assay top-cutting, probability plots were reviewed to look for points of inflection in the sample data. This was used as an indicator of where the distance limiting function was applied.

Model validation was completed to check that the grade estimates within the model were an appropriate reflection of the underlying composite sample data, and to confirm that the interpolation parameters were applied as intended. Checks of the estimated block grade with the corresponding composite dataset were completed using several approaches involving both numerical and spatial aspects as follows:

Globally: Comparison of the mean block grade estimates to the mean of informing composite grades for both domain

Semi-Local: Using swath plots in Northing and RL comparing the estimates to the sample data

Local: Visual inspection of the estimated block grades viewed in conjunction with the sample data.

Density has been assigned to the resource using interpreted weathering surfaces determined from drill hole logging. Bulk density was coded by oxidation type:

Oxide = 1.8 t/m 3

Transitional = 2.4 t/m 3

Fresh = 2.9 t/m3

Over 200 density measurements were available for review predominantly in fresh material. Data was imported into Leapfrog software and statistics were compared for mineralised zones/waste and different lithologies.

With limited data available for oxide and transitional domains the density values have been defaulted to what had been coded previously and what was used in the nearby Marwest Pit.

6. Classification Criteria

The Mineral Resource has been classified following due consideration of all criteria contained in Section 1, Section 2 and Section 3 of JORC 2012 Table 1.

The supplied drilling database represents an appropriate record of the drilling and sampling undertaken at the project. In general drilling, surveying, sampling, analytical methods and controls are considered appropriate for the style of mineralisation under consideration.

The drill spacing is relatively consistent within the mineralised domains at nominal 20 m drill spacing on 20 m sections with some 40m and 80 m drill spacing on sections in the deeper edge margins of the deposit.

The recent drilling has generally confirmed the previously classified Indicated material.

Drill holes are routinely surveyed for down hole deviation using appropriate methodology. Given the dimensions and general attitude of the modelled mineralisation, down hole deviation is considered a low risk of materially impacting the MRE.

The continuity and volume of the mineralised domains has been established by diamond and RC drilling to a confidence level where the grade and quantity can be reasonably assumed. The approach to defining the mineralised volume was firstly based on geological attributes, modified by applying a geological cut-off grade for each mineralised wireframe.

In general, the interpreted mineralised volumes have been extrapolated generally half the drill hole spacing beyond data limits.

The OK and ID modelling method and the associated search and interpolation parameters used are considered appropriate for estimation of the Mineral Resources at this stage of the project evaluation. Cube have concluded the OK and ID grade outcome is the appropriate model to report for the October 2023 MRE. The estimate has also been compared to previous estimates.

Cube has considered all the relevant criteria and has classified the estimated Mineral Resources as Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resource.

The portions of the 2023 MRE classified as Indicated have been flagged by medium to high quality estimation parameters, an average distance to nearest sample of 25 m. The drill spacing within the Indicated portion of the resource is appropriate for defining the continuity and volume of the mineralised domains, at a nominal 20 m drill spacing on 20 m sections.

The portions of the 2023 MRE classified as Inferred represent typically minor lodes with less than three drill holes and portions of domains where geological continuity is present but not consistently confirmed by 20 m x 20 m drilling. The Inferred portions of the MRE are defined by a lower quality of estimation parameters, an average slope of regression (true to estimated block) of < 0.3 and an average distance to composites used of > 30 m.

7. Reasonable Prospects for Eventual Economic Extraction

The Mineral Resource is considered to have reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction (RPEEE) given the access to nearby critical infrastructure, the volume and grade of mineralisation available for mining and the RPEEE criteria which have been applied prior to reporting the Mineral Resource.

8. Reporting Cut-off Grades

The Trident MRE is reported at a cut-off grade of 1.5 g/t Au. The cut-off grade has been derived from a first principals build-up of mining and processing costs and metallurgical parameters as part of the ongoing DFS. Inputs into the cut-off grade calculation include:

Stoping, Grade Control and Surface Haulage Cost = AUD$73.59/t ore

Processing Costs = AUD$31/t ore

Site Administration Cost = AUD$5.58/t ore

Metallurgical Recovery = 83.5%

Royalties = 2.5%

Gold Price = AUD$2,800/oz

In addition to applying a cut-off grade of 1.5 g/t Au, the MRE has been reported within an underground Shape Optimiser (SO) evaluation from the undiluted resource model. SO input parameters include a minimum mining width of 2m, minimum stope length of 2.5m, sublevel spacing of 5m.

9. Mining and Metallurgical Methods and Parameters

Mining of Trident is assumed to be by underground mining methods. Trident ore is assumed to be transported and processed at the Plutonic processing facility. It is assumed that Trident will be an incremental ore source to a base load being processed at Plutonic. The Plutonic plant is an established operation, historical operating costs are generally well understood and reliable. Metallurgical testwork, commissioned by Como Engineers and conducted by ALS Metallurgy, showed that the Trident fresh ore is suitable for treatment via a typical crush, grind and leach process, with final gold recoveries of up to 90%.

Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data

Plutonic Underground Deposit

(Criteria in this section apply to all succeeding sections.)

Criteria Commentary Sampling

techniques Over its 33-year production history, the Plutonic deposit has been sampled using numerous

drilling and sampling techniques byBillabong Gold Pty Ltd (Billabong - 100% owned Catalyst

Metals Limited) and previous operators. Drilling and sampling techniques by previous operators is

assumed to be to industry standard at that time

For Mineral Resource estimation the Plutonic main underground area has been predominantly

based on diamond drilling (DD) from surface and underground platforms and underground rock

chip face samples (FS). Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling makes up a small proportion of the data

set and has been carried out at the Plutonic main deposit for delineation of open pit material

For DD samples, downhole depth is recorded by the drillers on core blocks after every run. This is

checked and compared to the measurements of the core by a geologist to honour geological

boundaries (lithology, mineral assemblage, alteration etc). Sample lengths typically vary between

0.3m and 1.0m

DD core is orientated using a Reflex ACT device and detailed structural measurements and

logging is carried out. Exploration DD core is sawn in half along the orientation lines, with half the

sample being submitted for assay and the remaining half being retained for reference. Grade

control DD core is whole core sampled and sent for analysis

RC samples were collected for each metre drilled and passed through a cyclone and riffle splitter

to produce a two kg to four kg assay into calico bags

FS samples are completed by the mine geologists. The sampling is taken by chipping the face into

calico bags with definition by lithological boundaries. FS samples are taken perpendicular to the

lode orientation in the face. The face sample locations are marked up and measured from fixed

survey points Drilling

techniques Diamond core diameters include BQ (36.4 mm), BTW (42 mm), LTK60 (43.9 mm), NQ (47.6 mm),

NQ2 (50.7 mm)

RC holes were drilled with face hammers and were sampled at one metre down hole intervals Drill sample

recovery DD recovery is not noted specifically, though core is locked in and meter marked carefully.

Discrepancies to core blocks are brought up with the drill contractor. Occasionally core loss

blocks are inserted. Overall drill core recovery is very good

Billabong diamond drilling practice results in high core recovery due to the competent nature of

the ground

Chip sample recoveries are not relevant in this instance. No RC drilling has taken place for a

number of years at Plutonic and impact on the resource would be minimal

RC and DD by previous operators is assumed to be to industry standard at that time

There is no known relationship between sample recovery and grade; diamond drill sample

recovery is very high Logging DD core, RC samples and FS chip samples have been logged by qualified geologists to a level of

detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical

studies

Logging and face mapping is qualitative and quantitative. Visual estimates of sulphide (percentage)

and alteration (intensity scale) are recorded. Core Logging and face mapping notes lithology,

alteration, mineralisation and structures. Structural readings are taken at relevant structures and

where the foliation is relatively consistent

All DD core is digitally photographed and logged. Faces are mapped and sampled when access

permits Sub-sampling

techniques and

sample

preparation If the DD core was BQ, LTK48 orBTW it was sampled as full core and dispatched to the laboratory

for analysis. Most LTK60 and NQ2 DD core is cut in half with anAlmonte diamond core saw; the

top half of the core was sent to the laboratory for analysis and the other half was placed back in

the core tray, transferred onto pallets, and moved to the core yard library. AllGC drilling, regardless

of core size, is whole core sampled

RC samples were collected for each metre drilled and passed through a cyclone and riffle splitter

to produce a two kg to four kg assay into calico bags. Depending on the oxidation state of the rock,

the sample weight varied between three and five kilograms. A duplicate sample was also collected

and retained in a temporary sample storage facility for further check sampling. The RC drilling and

sampling were supervised at the drill site by a company sampler and geologist. The riffle splitter was

cleaned using compressed air after every sample and the cyclone was cleaned every 40m, or

more regularly at the geologists' discretion. Wet or damp RC samples were allowed to dry before

riffle splitting

FS chip samples are taken by chipping the face into calico bags with definition by lithological

boundaries

Sample preparation procedures for DD and FS includes: 1-4 hours drying at 150C depending on moisture content; Crush 85% < 3mm  Essa jaw crusher or rotary Boyd crusher; Riffle split 50:50 to<1kg; Pulverise ~700-750g to 90% passing 75m in Labtechnics LM2; Scoop 250-300g; Scoop to subset to 40gm for fire assay

Quality control procedures for DD and FS includes: FS  blanks added to each face sample with ore zones; DD barren wash and blanks added after each ore interval; Crusher duplicates taken at 1:40; Pulp duplicates taken at 1:40

Sample preparation protocols and sample sizes are considered appropriate for the style of

mineralisation encountered and should provide representative results Quality of assay

data and

laboratory tests The Plutonic Gold Mine has been in operation since 1990 following discovery in 1988. QAQC

procedures have changed throughout that period. The current underground Mineral Resources

have been identified over a long period of time with a number of companies. All high confidence

Mineral Resources are based dominantly on underground DD and FS completed in the last 14 years

In recent years, for DD and FS, gold concentration is determined by fire assay using the lead

collection technique with a 40gm sample charge weight. An AAS (Plutonic lab) or ICP (ALS and

Bureau Veritas) finish

A Pulverising and Leach (PAL) method was introduced to the Plutonic site laboratory in 2005.

Underground GC samples are initially assayed by PAL and where the result is greater than 0.5 g/t

Au the sample is re-analysed by 40gm fire assay and the fire assay result is retained for grade

estimation purposes. It has been shown that the use of PAL assays is likely to have negligible

influence on the Sept 2023 MRE

Although PAL is not considered to be a total gold analysis, the larger sample size still produces a

representative result. Fire assay gold analysis is considered to be total gold

Samples are dried, crushed and pulverised prior to analysis

Certified Reference Material (CRM's) are submitted every 20 samples for DD and once per shift for

FS (approx. 1 in 15 samples). CRM's are of similar grade tenor to those expected in the sampling.

The CRM insertion rate ensures that there are at least two CRM's per assay batch. CRM's are

selected based on their grade range and mineralogical properties with an emphasis on sulphide

ores

Blanks are inserted every 20 samples for DD and for FS they are inserted after any face that contains

mineralisation

Grind checks or sizing was carried out on a frequency of 1 in 40 on both pulp residues and crush

residues prior to January 2020. Since January 2020, crush sizing analysis is conducted randomly.

The data is collected throughout the shift with results calculated at the end of shift. Pulp residues

are expected to have 90% passing 75m. The crush residue is expected to have 80% passing 3

mm. This data is monitored by the Laboratory Supervisor. Grind times can be lengthened

accordingly

Field, crush and pulp duplicates, occur at a frequency of 2.5%

Current procedures dictate a process of validation and checking of laboratory results when data is

returned by the laboratory as it is loaded into the acQuire database. A standard set of plots and

checks are undertaken, and if results fall outside of the expected limits, then re-assaying is

requested. Monthly QAQC reports are generated by the database administrator and documented

from automated routines out of the database

A comprehensive review of QAQC results was carried out for the CIM NI 43-101 report relating to

the 2022 Mineral Resource and Reserve Estimate for the Plutonic Estimate (2022 MRE  Effective

Date December 31, 2021)

Conclusions from the 2022 MRE Qualified Person include: Overall performance of the Plutonic site and external laboratory (ALS) are adequate for

estimating and reporting Mineral Resources for the Plutonic underground operations

despite some minor shortcomings in the site laboratory; The accuracy of the laboratories is within 3% error; The variance of the laboratories (precision) based on CRM's is acceptable for

underground production purposes; Both ALS and Plutonic laboratories performed well on precision and accuracy with ALS

lab slightly better precision; Coarse duplicates revealed relative errors at 20% for samples with Au >7 g/t and 30%

relative errors for samples with Au between 3 and 7 g/t; 50% of the errors of the coarse duplicates may have been caused by a coarse gold nugget

effect. The remaining errors were likely caused by contamination, other laboratory

procedure breaches and human error

At the Plutonic Laboratory there was: some low-level contamination at crushing stage; some minor procedural non-compliance at crushing, pulverising, and instrument

assaying stage; periodic increased assaying uncertainty may be caused by possible human errors; the extent of the laboratory contamination is unknown given the random nature of the

blank insertion; upper limit for blanks of 0.2 g/t is too high to effectively detect contamination

At ALS Laboratory there was: there was insignificant contamination at the lab during the period; the laboratory has performed consistently well; laboratory precision test on CRM's indicated a better performance than CRM manufacturer

DD and FS data collected since the 2022 MRE consists almost entirely of additional grade control

data and represents a relatively small proportion of the total dataset used for the JORC June 30,

2023 Mineral Resource Estimate (Sept 2023 MRE)

Conclusions from the Sept 2023 MRE Competent Person include: Results indicate that the QAQC performance is sufficient for using the data for an

underground Mineral Resource Estimate; Element of risk in using PAL due to incomplete digestion; Site laboratory performance (the majority of the samples) is poorer than off-site labs (ALS

and Bureau Veritas)  contamination and percentage of CRM failure; Site laboratory shows poorer performance at low levels of Au (0.4 - 0.8 g/t), but effect

on underground Mineral Resources likely to be minimal; Precision of CRMs for site laboratory poorer than manufacturer

Verification of

sampling and

assaying

DD and face logging is completed electronically onto laptops. Database protocols and rules

are applied upon data entry

Visual validation and check logging of face and drill data

Drill data is stored in an AcQuire database, face data in an Acquire. All maintained full-time

Database Administrator

All face and drill data within site databases are regularly validated using both internal database

systems and external validation tools

Validation of pre-Billabong data is completed periodically

There is no requirement for twinned holes in a production setting

Conversion of lab non-numeric codes to numeric for estimation Location of data

points UG hole collar locations are picked up regularly by site surveyors

Multi shot cameras are used for down-hole survey

Development faces are spatially located using MineMapper and Vulcan 3D software

Underground development voids are picked up regularly by site surveyors. Stopes voids are

generally all surveyed by CMS (where practical and safe to do so) Data spacing

and distribution Plutonic underground Mineral Resources are primarily based on DD and FS data

Given the high degree of grade variability and spatial complexity at the Plutonic underground mine

(extremely high nugget effect and minimal short-scale spatial continuity), it is difficult to generate

local scale grade estimates that would adequately satisfy a Measured Resource classification.For

this reason, no Measured material has been included in the Sept 2023 MRE.Indicated Resources

can be reasonably well-defined with DD spacing up to 30m  30m. Average data spacing for

Indicated resources for the Sept 2023 MRE is approximately 20m 20m. Inferred resources are

assigned to areas where DD spacing is generally greater than 30m  30m

Grade control DD spacing typically required for stope definition is between 8m  8m to 10m 10m.

Close spaced FS are also used for stope definition

The data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish geological and/or grade continuity

appropriate for the Mineral Resource and classifications to be applied, with known likelihood of

local variability

The drill core is logged and divided into sample intervals that have a minimum sample length of

0.3m and a maximum sample length of 1.0m. Intervals should honour geological boundaries such

as faults and lithological contacts. Most nominal sample lengths were at 1m intervals; sample

compositing is not applied until the estimation stage

Compositing of the data to 1m was used in the estimate

No recent RC drilling has been undertaken Orientation of

data in relation

to geological

structure Drilling is orientated as close to perpendicular to mineralisation where possible. However,

orientation to lode may be compromised by access to suitable drill platforms. Drillholes are

extended to Mine Mafic boundary where required and practicable

Face sampling is orientated perpendicular to lode orientation

The variable drill orientation relative to mineralisation is not thought to make a material difference

in the resource estimation Sample security All cut drill core is kept in an unfenced core farm adjacent to the core cutting and processing shed.

This is not regarded as a security risk due to the remote location of the mine with no community

development near the mine. All core is photographed and records kept electronically

Geologists are responsible for marking the sample intervals and placement of Blanks and Standards

within the sampling stream for both faces and core. The Project Geologist and Senior Geologist

complete quality control checks on the face data daily

Field Staff are primarily responsible for the collection of samples from the face as chips, as well as the cutting and sampling of core. Also generating the sample numbers for core submission, creating a sample submission sheet for core and faces, randomly selecting and recording the standards to be sent to the laboratory and the transportation of the samples to the laboratory

Once a hole has been sampled, the sample calculation and check geology documents are handed to the Database Administrator (DBA) who converts the digital copy of the sample calculation to a .csv file which is then imported into the AcQuire database

Upon receiving the digital file for the assay data, the DBAs import the file into the master AcQuire database. This data is not accessible for assessment until it has been validated as complete and correct by the QAQC Geologist and DBA. Face data is received in the same format and is entered into the AcQuire database

Pulp rejects from assayed samples are kept in wooden boxes on top of the waste dump. These are visited frequently as samples are taken for research and other purposes

Drill logs are kept in hard copy and electronically and are available for checking and due-diligence Audits or reviews A review by Jacqui Coombes (Coombes, 2009) concluded that it was reasonable to combine the drillhole and face sampling data for the Plutonic deposit  report sighted

A previous review by Roscoe Postle and Associates (RPA) in 2012 concluded that the data verification systems were adequate for Mineral Resource estimation

Previous estimation process review by Optiro (2015) identified that reduced manning levels were having an impact on the quantity and quality of the data being generated in 2015, however, overall, the data collection systems which support the Mineral Resource estimation process were found to be best practice  report unsighted

In 2022, SnowdenOptiro completed a technical review of the 2022 Mineral Resource Estimate prior to a public release. This report indicated some concerns about smearing of high grades into low grade areas, the assignment of Measured and Indicated resources in areas of low data density and the lack of a reconciliation analysis against the estimate

No external audits or reviews have been undertaken on the Sept 2023 Mineral Resource Estimate

Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results

Plutonic Underground Deposit

(Criteria listed in the preceding section also apply to this section.)

Criteria Commentary Mineral

tenement and

land tenure

status The Plutonic Gold Mine group includes 30 granted exploration and mining tenements (24 mining leases, 2 exploration licences, and 4 prospecting licences) (as such term is defined in the (Western Australian) Mining Act 1978 (the "Mining Act"))

All rents to Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety ("DMIRS") have been paid and made within one month after the anniversary commencement date of the tenement as allowed under the Mining Act.

All tenement Shire rates have either been paid or will be paid within the required timeframes.

All compliance reporting including Form 5 Reports, have been lodged within the timeframes allowed under the Mining Act 1978 as amended.

All Geological Reports have been lodged.

There are no other unexpected encumbrances registered or recorded against the tenements.

There are no Forfeiture proceedings against any tenements. Exploration done

by other parties 1969-1976  International Nickel Company (Inco) conducted nickel exploration using geochemistry, geophysics, costeaning, RAB and RC drilling.

1987  Great Central Mines (GCM) identified an arsenic and gold anomaly by geochemical sampling in the Plutonic tenements.

1987-1993  Battle Mountain Australia (BMA) undertook regional mapping, Bulk Leach Extractable Gold (BLEG) soil sampling, and RAB drilling. The Triple P, Pelican, Albatross and Flamingo deposits were discovered in 1992. Further RAB, AC, RC and DD programs were conducted to define these deposits.

1988-1994 - Resolute Resources Ltd (75%) and Titan Resources NL (25%) commenced exploration on the Marymia tenements. Gold mineralisation was discovered in the Keillor Shear Zone following regional exploration soil, stream sediment and rock chip sampling and geological mapping. Several phases of follow-up RAB, AC, RC and DD drilling was carried out. K1 deposit was discovered in 1989. Prospect scale geophysical surveys including magnetics and gradient array IP were undertaken between 1989 and 1994.

1990  GCM carried follow up grid-based mapping, soil and lag geochemical surveys which led to the discovery of the Plutonic deposit.

1990  GCM discovered satellite deposits at Area4 and Channel. Both were mined by open pit between 1999 and 2001.

1990-1995  Plutonic Resources exploration division carried out exploration on the Freshwater tenements and discovered a total of 1 underground and 30 surface prospects. Follow up resource definition drilling resulted in conversion of these prospects to 10 open pits and one underground mine, including Area 4 open pit, Plutonic East underground deposit, Salmon, Trout and Perch.

1999-2004 - Homestake Gold of Australia undertook a detailed aeromagnetic and radiometric survey over the entire lease area. Additional IP and moving loop geophysical surveys were undertaken between 2000 and 2004 across several prospects. The largest of which was across the K1-K2 project area in 2004.

2004 - the Plutonic Development department undertook a large soil sampling programme over the northwestern end of the Marymia tenements, in conjunction with the IP survey. These surveys identified a number of targets that were followed up with some additional surface geochemical sampling.

2001-2007 - exploration and resource definition drilling by RAB, RC and diamond core drilling was undertaken by the Plutonic Development department across numerous prospects outside of the Plutonic Mine area. Many of these drilled prospects were proven up to become small satellite open pit mines such as Triple P B-Zone, Albatross, Flamingo, Kookaburra, Ibis, Piranha, to name a few.

2009-2012 - RC and diamond core drilling concentrated on extensions to the known Plutonic deposit. Outside of this area two 2D seismic lines were shot in conjunction with Curtin University and diamond core drill was undertaken at Plutonic West and Cod prospects. Geology The gold deposits at Plutonic are hosted by an Archaean greenstone sequence and occur mainly as a multiple lode system with variable dip (horizontal to vertical) hosted almost exclusively by a mafic amphibolite sequence that is referred to as the 'Mine Mafic'.

Mineralisation regularly occurs as shallowly dipping, layer parallel lodes, although steep lodes and minor quartz-vein hosted deposits also occur. Mineralisation at Plutonic is characterized by a series of moderately-dipping to very flat-lying, stacked replacement-style lodes, individually up to five metres wide, that are hosted within ductile shear zones, oriented slightly oblique to stratigraphy. Drill hole

Information No exploration has been reported in this release, therefore there are no drill hole intercepts to report. This section is not relevant to this report on Mineral Resource and ore Reserves. Data

aggregation

methods No exploration has been reported in this release, therefore there are no drill hole intercepts to report. This section is not relevant to this report on Mineral Resource and ore Reserves. Relationship

between mineralisation

widths and intercept lengths No exploration has been reported in this release, therefore there are no drill hole intercepts to report. This section is not relevant to this report on Mineral Resource and ore Reserves. Diagrams No exploration has been reported in this release, therefore there are no drill hole intercepts to report. This section is not relevant to this report on Mineral Resource and ore Reserves. Balanced reporting No exploration has been reported in this release, therefore there are no drill hole intercepts to report. This section is not relevant to this report on Mineral Resource and ore Reserves. Other

substantive exploration data No exploration has been reported in this release, therefore there are no drill hole intercepts to report. This section is not relevant to this report on Mineral Resource and ore Reserves.

Further work Underground grade control and extensional drilling programs are underway, and will continue in line with mine development and production requirements.

Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources

Plutonic Underground Deposit

(Criteria listed in section 1, and where relevant in section 2, also apply to this section.)

Criteria Commentary Database integrity The Plutonic Mineral Resource database is regularly validated by Billabong staff using data validation modules of Vulcan, Leapfrog and AcQuire software programs to identify any inconsistencies or logical errors in the data. Mine staff also visually check the drill hole data on-screen on a regular basis.

Surface and underground drill hole and face data is validated to produce a digital database free of detected errors. This is undertaken by passing data through embedded macros and queries of the drill hole database software by table (collar, assay, lithology, survey, and grout).

Crosschecks are also undertaken to ensure that each drill hole has data from collar, assays, lithology, survey, and grout files. By undertaking the above procedures, all drill hole and face data is rigorously checked, verified, and corrected where necessary to ensure limited failures. Surface and underground drill hole and face data is validated to produce a digital database free of detected errors. This is undertaken by passing data through embedded macros and queries of the drill hole database software by table (collar, assay, lithology, survey, and grout). Crosschecks are also undertaken to ensure that each drill hole has data from collar, assays, lithology, survey, and grout files. By undertaking the above procedures, all drill hole and face data is rigorously checked, verified, and corrected where necessary to ensure limited failures. Site visits The Competent Persons have not undertaken a site visit at the time of this release. A site visit is planned in the near future. Geological interpretation The confidence in the geological interpretation is high with all the information and over 30 years of open pit and underground operation used in the generation of the models.

All available geological data was used in the interpretation, including drilling and mapping (~29,000 drillholes and ~120,000 faces).

The modelling approach takes advantage of many thousands of structural measurements from orientated diamond holes and underground development faces to build structural trend surfaces, and uses these trend surfaces to determine the mineralisation trend in domaining and grade estimation.

Mineralisation regularly occurs as shallowly dipping, layer parallel lodes, although steep lodes and minor quartz-vein hosted deposits also occur. Plutonic style mineralisation is characterised by a significant population of high to extreme gold grades that demonstrate very poor spatial continuity (only a few meters at best). These high-grade populations tend to occur in 'clusters' or cohesive zones on a large scale, however, the actual spatial continuity is very poor at a local scale, making it difficult to define robust zones of continuity without introducing significant bias. Dimensions Mineralisation extents:

Strike length = 3,200m (North  South)

Width = 2,200m (East-West)

Depth = Surface to 400mRL (~1,100m below surface)

The Plutonic mine is sub-divided into eight mine areas corresponding to historical resource zones:

Timor

Pacific

A134

Cortez

Baltic

Caribbean

Indian

Caspian Estimation and modelling techniques Plutonic gold mineralisation is almost entirely hosted within the Mine Mafic Unit (MMA) and characterised by a significant population of high to extreme gold grades that demonstrate very poor spatial continuity (only a few meters at best). Raw Coefficients of Variation (CoV) are typically in the order of 15-30, indicating extreme statistical variability.

The extreme grade variability and lack of spatial continuity of high grades requires a non-linear approach to deal with these high grades during estimation. A traditional approach of physical domaining, assay cutting, and linear estimation (IDW or OK) is considered inadequate in dealing with this complexity.

The estimation method developed for the Sept 2023 MRE combines Categorical Indicator Kriging (CIK) to define broad estimation domains, together with applying distance limiting at chosen grade thresholds to restrict the influence of the high grade and extreme grade values during grade interpolation.

Prior to estimation, a closely spaced set of structural surfaces are developed in LeapFrog reflecting the primary controls on mineralisation within the MMA. A dip and dip-direction of each triangle facets is imported into the Surpac block model to provide information for dynamic search and variogram model orientation during interpolation. Dynamic estimation is applied for estimating the CIK indicators and gold grades.

All DD and FS data was composited to 1m downhole and data within dolerite dykes or vein zones were removed. Composited data was split into the eight mine areas.

Two Categorical Indicator values are determined for each mine area:

A low-grade (LG) indicator to differentiate between background 'waste' and low-tenor mineralisation  around 0.5 g/t Au.

A high-grade (HG) indicator to define broad areas of consistent higher-tenor mineralisation  typically between 1.1 g/t and 1.7 g/t Au.

Indicator variograms were modelled for the LG and HG thresholds for all mine areas. The indicator variograms for both grade thresholds exhibited a moderate nugget effect and demonstrated well-structured continuity up to 30m. The CIK indicators were estimated using Ordinary Kriging into a finely gridded block model with block dimensions of 1.25m x 1.25m x 1.25m. The small block size for the indicator process is beneficial for creating categorical sub-domains at resolution which can be used to accurately back-flag composite data.

Three categorical sub-domains were generated for low-grade (LG), medium-grade (MG) and high-grade (HG) areas. The HG sub-domain was based on an indicator probability threshold of 0.35 and the LG sub-domain was based on an indicator probability threshold of 0.65. The MG sub-domain is assigned to blocks that do not satisfy either the HG or LG sub-domain criteria.

It is well-known that Plutonic mineralisation is characterised by a significant population of high to extreme gold grades that demonstrate very poor spatial continuity (only a few meters at best). All mine areas exhibit the presence of a high-grade population beginning at around 7-10 g/t Au. This high-grade population typically occurs around the 95-98th percentile of the distribution within the host Mine Mafic Unit (MMA). A further 'extreme' grade population is often evident at between 30-100 g/t Au depending on the mine area. This 'extreme' grade population is typically above the 99th percentile of the distribution. Whilst the 7-10 g/t Au population tends to occur in 'clusters' or cohesive zones on a large scale, the actual spatial continuity is very poor at a local scale, making it difficult to define robust zones of continuity without introducing significant continuity bias. Previous attempts to create hard domains of continuity at a 10 g/t Au cut-off often resulted in overstating the volume, grade, and continuity of these zones. The 'extreme' grade population noted above, often appears very clear on a log-probability plot, however, there is almost no cohesive spatial continuity of these grades.

The three categorical block model sub-domains (HG, MG and LG) were used to 'back-flag' the 1m composites from each mine area, thus creating a separate composite file for each sub-domain.

Standardised assay top-cuts are applied to the composite files as follows:

HG = 300 g/t Au

MG = 40 g/t Au

LG = 20 g/t Au

The assay top-cuts were generally above the 99.9th percentile of the distribution and were aimed at globally limiting extreme values only. Top-cuts are not used as the primary tool to control metal risk. The use of grade thresholds and distance limiting is considered a more objective and influential method in controlling metal risk, while better reflecting the actual localised occurrence of discontinuous high-grade gold mineralisation.

Grade variograms were modelled for the LG, MG and HG sub-domains for all mine areas. The HG grade variograms exhibited a very high nugget effect (75-82%) with maximum ranges of only a few meters (2.9-3.9m). Grade variography undertaken on the HG domain confirms the extremely variable nature of Plutonic mineralisation. As expected, grade variography on the MG and LG domains resulted in lower nuggets effects and longer ranges. Given the similarities between the spatial characteristics between all mine areas, it was decided to use an average gold grade variogram for each domain across all mine areas.

Grade thresholds for distance limiting were determined for each mine area from log-probability plots. Initial distance limits were determined by undertaking indicator variography at each grade threshold value. Indicator variography was restricted to areas of high data density and similar orientation to maximise clarity of continuity. The grade thresholds and distance limits are shown in the table below:

Prior to grade estimation, sub-domain codes from the 1.25m resolution block model are imported into a 2.5m x 2.5m x 2.5m resolution model and the proportion of LG, MG and HG is calculated for each 2.5m block.

Grade estimation for the LG, MG and HG domains was undertaken in Surpac software using Ordinary Kriging with grade threshold distance limiting. Initial grade thresholds and distance limits were applied using the parameters defined in the table above. Search routines and variogram orientations are drawn from the pre-populated dynamic search information recorded in each block.

Final block grades at a 2.5m block resolution were calculated by weighting the estimated grades for each sub-domain by the relevant domain proportion.

The parent estimation block size was 2.5m x 2.5m x 2.5m. A minimum of 3 and maximum of 12 (1 m composite) samples per block were used. Block discretisation was set at 3 E x 3 N x 3 RL points (per parent block).

A standardised search ellipse of 25m x 25m x 6.25m was used. Octant restrictions were not used.

Data spacing varied from 3m x 3m to >40m x 40m.

The entire Plutonic model was estimated based on the 'Initial' Distance 1 limits as shown in the table above. A backward-looking mill reconciliation was carried out using mine CMS stope voids for the period Jan to August 2023 (550Kt). The initial distance limits resulted in a 15% under-call compared to the mill reconciliation for the period. The Distance 1 limits were therefore modified and the model was re-run. The final grade threshold and distance limits shown in the table below resulted in the final Sept 2023 MRE being within 4.1% (above) of mill reconciliation. Given there is always a small amount of additional operational metal loss between in-situ CMS model reports and actual production, the actual reconciliation between the Sept 2023 MRE and Mill is likely to be slightly better than within 4.1%.

No deleterious elements were estimated or assumed.

No selective mining units were assumed in the resource estimate.

Only gold grade was estimated.

The model was validated by comparing statistics of the estimated blocks against the composited sample data; visual examination of the of the block grades versus assay data in section; swath plots; and reconciliation against previous production.

Area Threshold 1

(Au/gt) Initial

Distance 1

(m) Final

Distance 1

(m) Threshold 2

(Au/gt) Final

Distance 2

(m) A134 5 7 10 100 4 Baltic 10 8 10 100 5 Caribbean 7 7.5 10 90 6 Caspian 7 7 10 50 5 Cortez 8 7 10 40 4 Indian 7 4.5 10 50 4 Pacific 10 11 10 30 8.7 Timor 10 9 10 100 6.25 Grade Thresholds and Distance Limits

Criteria Commentary Moisture All estimations were carried out on a 'dry' basis. Cut-off parameters Plutonic underground Mineral Resources are reported at a cut-off grade of 1.5 g/t Au. The cut-off grade has been derived from current mining and processing costs and metallurgical parameters.

Inputs into the cut-off grade calculation include: Incremental Stoping and Grade Control Cost = AUD$60/t Processing Costs = AUD$31/t ore Site Administration Cost = AUD$23/t ore Metallurgical Recovery = 84% Royalties = 2.5% Gold Price = AUD$2,800/oz Mining factors or assumptions The Plutonic underground Mineral Resource estimate is reported within an underground Shape Optimiser (SO) evaluation from the undiluted and depleted resource model. SO input parameters include a 1.5 g/t Au cut-off, minimum mining width of 3m, minimum stope length of 5m, stope height of 15m and a gold price of AUD$2,800/oz.

The orientation of SO's is variable depending on the geometry of the mineralisation. Metallurgical factors or assumptions It is assumed the material will be processed at the Plutonic Gold Plant. Recovery factors are assigned based on-going experience.

No metallurgical modifying factors or assumptions have been built or applied to the resource model. Environmental factors or assumptions The Plutonic underground operation is a going concern and as such previous practices have proven to be effective and practical.

A conventional storage facility is used for the process plant tailings.

The small amount of waste rock is stored in a traditional waste rock landform 'waste dump'. Due to low sulphide content and the presence of carbonate alteration the potential for acid drainage formation is considered to be low. Bulk density Bulk density is determined from drill core using a weight in air/weight in water method. Currently there is a database of over 3,800 bulk density measurements which have been taken from mineralised and unmineralised intervals, with an ongoing sampling program in place.

Samples of between 0.5 and 2.0kg are weighed in air and weighed in water. The following equation is used to derive bulk density Bulk Density =  / (    ).

Bulk density was directly assigned by oxidation type and rock type: MMA/Mafic/Ultramafic/Dolerite Fresh = 2.9 t/m3 Transitional = 2.2 t/m3 Oxide = 1.8 t/m3 Fresh Quartz = 2.5 t/m3 Transported/Laterite = 2.1 t/m3 Pit Backfill and Surface Dumps = 1.8 t/m3 Classification Factors considered when classifying the model include: The portions of the 2023 MRE classified as Indicated are typically based on drill spacing less than or equal to 30 m x 30m. This drill spacing is appropriate for defining the continuity and volume of the mineralised domains and estimating robust global Mineral Resources. Approximately 85% of the Indicated portion of the Sept 2023 MRE has been drilled at closer then 30m x 30m and 70% of the Indicated portion has been drilled at better than 24m x 24m. The portions of the Sept 2023 MRE classified as Inferred typically represent peripheral areas of the deposit where geological continuity is present but not consistently confirmed by 30 m x 30 m drilling or closer. Further considerations of resource classification include; data type and quality, geological understanding, amount of historical development and stoping, and historical and recent production reconciliation performance. The Mineral Resource classification appropriately reflects the view of the Competent Person.

Audits or reviews The geological interpretation, estimation parameters and validation of the resource model was peer reviewed by Catalyst staff.

No external reviews of the resource estimate had been carried out at the time of writing. Discussion of relative accuracy/ confidence The relative accuracy of the Mineral Resource estimate is reflected in the reporting of the Mineral Resource as per the guidelines of the 2012 JORC Code.

The statement relates to the global estimates of tonnes and grade.

The estimation method adopted for the Sept 2023 MRE is believed to be appropriate for dealing with the high-degree of grade variability at Plutonic.

The estimated uncertainty for an Indicated Mineral Resource is typically +/- 20% over an annual production period.

In most cases it is considered that only development/face sampling in conjunction with <10m x 10m drill spacing is sufficient to attain enough confidence for stoping.

Section 4 Estimation and Reporting of Ore Reserves

Plutonic Underground Deposit

(Criteria listed in section 1, and where relevant in sections 2 and 3, also apply to this section.)

Criteria Commentary Mineral Resource estimate for conversion to Ore Reserves The Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) used for the plutonic Ore Reserve is the estimate described in section 3.

The Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource are reported inclusive of Ore Reserve. The Ore Reserves are a subset of the MRE, and are spatially contained within the MRE Site visits The Competent person is a full-time employee who has visited the site on a regular basis for the past 12 months, and has detailed knowledge of the mining methods, costs, schedule and other material parameters relating to the Ore Reserves estimate. Study status The Ore Reserves have been determined based on the current operational practises of the Plutonic operating underground mine. Plutonic has been in production as an underground operation since 1995.

The Ore Reserves were estimated using Deswik software (V2023.1) and reported against the updated MRE block model. Modifying factors were applied, and optimised Stope shapes were generated. All physicals were economically evaluated on a stope by stope basis and the total Ore Reserve was evaluated to assess its economic viability.

Previous operational performance has demonstrated that the current mining methods are technically achievable and is economically viable. The modifying factors used in the Ore Reserves calculations are based on historically achieved mining dilution and recovery factors. The current mine plan ethos and mining method used currently will continue for future mining.

The conversion from Resource to Reserve estimate is 30%. It is expected with further detailed mine planning and infill drilling that Resource will be converted into Reserves. Cut-off parameters The cut-off grade applied to the Ore Reserve estimate is defined as the $A value per tonne of ore after consideration of all costs (mining, processing, general and administration), metallurgical recoveries, sustaining capital, transport costs and royalties.

Stope designs are based on a cut-off grade of 2.0g/t and then assessed within the mining schedule scenario, to determine value for the business. Stope design grades are subject to review as a part of the ongoing optimisation of the integrated operational plan.

Development material was considered in the Ore Reserve estimate if the material could cover the cost of haulage and processing (1.4g/t)

Inputs into the cut-off grade calculation include:

Incremental Stoping and Grade Control Cost = AUD$60/t

Processing Costs = AUD$31/t ore

Site Administration Cost = AUD$23/t ore

Metallurgical Recovery = 84% (average across all mining units of which are detailed in Metallurgical section)

Royalties = 2.5%

Gold Price = AUD$2,600/oz Mining factors or assumptions The Ore Reserves estimate is reported within an underground Shape Optimiser (SO) evaluation from the depleted resource model. SO input parameters include a 2.0 g/t Au cut-off, minimum mining width of 3m (with a 1.0m dilution halo applied on both hanging wall and footwall of each stope shape), minimum stope length of 5m, stope height of 15m and a gold price of AUD$2,600/oz.

The orientation of SO's is variable depending on the geometry of the mineralisation .

The Ore Reserves estimate is based on long-hole open stoping with no fill, the mining method currently applied at Plutonic Operation. If a stope can be filled with waste rock, it will be filled, however it is not a geotechnical requirement for mining.

Development, stopes/SO Shapes and schedule have been prepared for the entirety of the Ore Reserve estimate.

Plutonic has been in operation for 28 years, whereby various mining methods have been used in the past (room and pillar, LHOS with paste fill/ rock fill or no fill) The historic voids have been incorporated into the MRE and coded to ensure the method of fill determines proximity of stope shape generation.

Unclassified and inferred material have not been included within the Ore Reserves, however if the material is mined as a consequence to mining an Ore Reserve estimated stope, then material had a zero grade assigned and was therefore treated as waste.

The Modifying factors are validated via a routine reconciliation process, whereby on completion of each stope, the stope is compared to the estimate from mining planning and Ore Reserve estimate.

Dilution of 10% is applied to the in-situ stope ore tonnes and the ore recovery of 95% is applied. Development had no dilution applied and 100% mining recovery assumed.

Recovery and cost estimates are based on actual site operating data and engineering estimates. Metallurgical factors or assumptions The Plutonic Gold Mine has been in operation since 1990. The original process plant ("PP1") consisted of an open circuit jaw crusher, coarse ore stockpile, semi-autogenous grinding ("SAG") mill and ball mills, two leach tanks, and six carbon adsorption tanks. A three-stage hard rock crushing circuit was incorporated in 1994 which included a fine ore bin and an additional ball mill. A second process plant ("PP2") was added in 1996 utilising the original PP1 jaw crusher and coarse ore stockpile and adding SAG and ball mills, tw
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Truepill recently disclosed that, on August 31, 2023, it learned that a "bad actor" had accessed certain of its files used for pharmacy management and fulfilment services. This cybersecurity breach resulted in Truepill users' records being compromised, including such information like patient names, their medication type, demographic information, and prescribing physicians. Two months after the breach, on October 30, 2023, Truepill began sending notices of the breach to affected persons.

The data breach has put the personal, confidential, and medical information of over 2.3 million individuals at risk. Schubert Jonckheer & Kolbe LLP is investigating whether Postmeds failed to adequately protect the integrity of the private information in its files and servers in violation of state and federal laws.

If your personal information was impacted by this incident, you may be at risk of identity theft and other serious violations of your privacy. As a result, you may be entitled to money damages of $1,000 per violation and an injunction requiring changes to Truepill's security practices.

If you recently received a notice of this cybersecurity incident from Postmeds or are Truepill user and wish to obtain additional information about your legal rights, please contact us today or visit our website at https://www.classactionlawyers.com/truepill.

About Schubert Jonckheer & Kolbe LLP

Schubert Jonckheer & Kolbe represents shareholders, employees, and consumers in class actions against corporate defendants, as well as shareholders in derivative actions against their officers and directors. The firm is based in San Francisco, and with the help of co-counsel, litigates cases nationwide.

Contact

Dustin L. Schubert

Schubert Jonckheer & Kolbe LLP

[email protected]

Tel: (415) 788-4220

SOURCE Schubert Jonckheer & Kolbe LLP
The service aims to provide factual information about sleep disorders, practical suggestions, and support and guidance in navigating the healthcare landscape

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Project Sleep , a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness of sleep health, sleep equity, and sleep disorders, is thrilled to announce the official launch of the Sleep Helpline , a new, professionally-staffed national helpline providing timely and trusted resources to help individuals navigate sleep issues and sleep disorders at every step of the journey.

The Sleep Helpline is here to help you at every step of your journey navigating sleep issues and sleep disorders.

"An estimated 50-70 million Americans live with a chronic sleep disorder, yet the majority are undiagnosed," said Julie Flygare , JD, President & CEO of Project Sleep. "We know that the path to finding accurate sleep disorder diagnosis, treatment, and support is often long, lonely, and inefficient. This is why the new Sleep Helpline will meet people where they are in moments of uncertainty, to provide free and personalized one-to-one support and resources."

The Sleep Helpline welcomes anyone looking for information about sleep disorders to reach out, including those uncertain if they might have a sleep-related condition, those diagnosed with a sleep condition, along with loved ones, caregivers, healthcare providers, educators, and social workers.

"The Sleep Helpline will be a tremendous help to all of us in the sleep community who care for patients," said Michael A. Grandner, PhD MTR, Director of the Sleep and Health Research Program at the University of Arizona, and Member of Project Sleep's Expert Advisory Board . "Especially in our busy society where sleep is undervalued and sleep disorders are often overlooked, this new resource led by a respected nonprofit like Project Sleep will empower individuals to understand their sleep symptoms, guide them as they seek the right healthcare attention sooner, and support them as their experiences and concerns evolve over time."

There are a wide variety of common and serious sleep disorders , including breathing disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and upper-airway resistance syndrome; hypersomnias such as narcolepsy, idiopathic hypersomnia, and Kleine-Levin syndrome; insomnia disorder; movement disorders such as restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movements; parasomnias such as REM sleep behavior disorder and sleepwalking; and sleep-wake disorders such as Non-24 and shift work disorder.

"As a person living with a sleep disorder myself, I know first-hand that there are times when you are not sure where to turn or who to talk to," added Julie Flygare. "We want you to know that you are not alone  Project Sleep's Sleep Helpline is here to address your questions and figure out next steps together."

Special thanks to Jazz Pharmaceuticals and Harmony Biosciences for generously providing sponsorship funding to support the development of Project Sleep's new Sleep Helpline to support millions of people facing sleep issues and sleep disorders.

The Sleep Helpline officially launches today, Dec. 6, 2023, with Resource Specialists available Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time). Individuals can reach out to the Sleep Helpline via phone at 1-800-819-2043, or by email at [email protected] . Learn more at: project-sleep.com/helpline .

About Project Sleep

Project Sleep is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about sleep health, sleep equity, and sleep disorders. The organization's programming includes the Rising Voices advocate leadership program, the Sleep Helpline, the Sleep Advocacy Program, the Sleep Equity Initiative, Project Sleep's Podcast, the Jack & Julie Narcolepsy Scholarship, the Narcolepsy Nerd Alert series, World Narcolepsy Day, and the Sleep In. Follow Project Sleep on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and LinkedIn , or visit their website at project-sleep.com .

Media inquiries: [email protected]

SOURCE Project Sleep
Rise in prevalence of chronic disorders, surge in technological advancements, and rise in demand for protein engineered therapeutics drive the growth of the global protein engineering market.

PORTLAND, Ore. , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Protein Engineering Market by Product (Instruments, Consumables, and Software), Technology Type (Rational/ Site Directed Mutagenesis and Irrational/ Random Mutagenesis), Protein Type (Monoclonal Antibodies, Insulin, Erythropoietin, Interferon, and Others), and End User, (Pharmaceutical & Biotechnological Companies, Academic & Research Institutes, and Contract Research Organizations): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the global protein engineering industry generated $2.2 billion in 2022, and is anticipated to generate $7.7 billion by 2032, witnessing a CAGR of 13.2% from 2023 to 2032.

Request Sample of the Report on Protein Engineering Market Forecast 2032- https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/1129

Prime determinants of growth

Increasing R&D activities in the biopharmaceutical industry, technological advancements in protein engineering, and increase in developmental strategies in protein engineering by key players drive the growth of the global protein engineering market. However, high cost and maintenance of protein engineering systems restricts the market growth. Moreover, the growth opportunities in emerging markets presents new opportunities in the coming years.

Report coverage & details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20232032 Base Year 2022 Market Size In 2022 $2.2 Billion Market Size In 2032 $7.7 Billion CAGR 13.2 % No. Of Pages in Report 298 Segments Covered Product, Technology Type, Protein Type, End User, And Region. Drivers Increasing R&D Activities In The Biopharmaceutical Industry Technological Advancements In Protein Engineering Increase In Developmental Strategies In Protein Engineering By Key Players Opportunity Growth Opportunities In Emerging Markets Restraint High Cost And Maintenance Of Protein Engineering Systems

Economic Downturn Analysis: Impact of Recession in 2023 on the Protein Engineering Market

During economic downturns, there is a heightened focus on cost containment and efficient resource allocation. Recessions often result in budget cuts, impacting research funding from both public and private sectors. Reduced funding affects academic institutions, research centers, and biotechnology companies engaged in life sciences research.

Moreover, it hampers investments in protein engineering technology development, slowing down innovation and the introduction of advanced protein engineering systems.

However, despite budget constraints, the significance of healthcare research remains pivotal, especially during challenging times. Diseases and health concerns persist regardless of economic conditions, potentially leading to sustained demand for protein engineering technologies in critical areas such as disease research, diagnostics, and drug development.

Want to Explore More, Connect to our Analyst- https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/connect-to-analyst/1129

The consumables segment to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period

By product, the consumables segment held the largest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly half of the global protein engineering market revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. This is attributed to rise in demand for consumables, along with a wide range of available consumables.

However, the instruments segment is projected to attain the highest CAGR of 13.7% from 2023 to 2032. This is attributed to the continuous technological innovations in protein engineering systems.

The rational/site-directed mutagenesis segment to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period

By technology type, the rational/site-directed mutagenesis segment held the largest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly three-fifths of the global protein engineering market revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status duing the forecast period. This is attributed to its wide application such as to enhance thermal stability or resistance to denaturation of a protein, to alter the substrate or ligand specificity of enzymes or binding proteins by targeted changes in key amino acid residues.

However, the irrational/random mutagenesis segment is projected to attain the highest CAGR of 13.7% from 2023 to 2032. This is attributed to various applications of random mutagenesis such as, it is used in directed evolution experiments to generate diverse libraries of protein variants, which can then be screened for improved or novel functions as well as it is also used to exploring sequence-function space to identify variants with desired traits.

The monoclonal antibodies segment to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period

By protein type, the monoclonal antibodies segment held the largest market share in 2022, accounting for more than two-fifths of the global protein engineering market and is estimated to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. This is attributed to increase in demand for personalized medicine and the target therapy of monoclonal antibodies, which is anticipated to increase the popularity of this market.

However, the insulin segment is projected to attain the highest CAGR of 14.4% from 2023 to 2032, owing to increase in prevalence of type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

The pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies' segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period

By end user, the pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, contributing to nearly half of the global protein engineering market revenue, and is projected to maintain its lead position during the forecast period. This is attributed to a substantial investment in research, propelling the demand for cutting-edge protein engineering technologies.

However, the contract research organization segment is projected to attain the highest CAGR of 13.5% from 2023 to 2032 as contract research organizations (CROs) play a significant role in providing R&D services to pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and academic institutions.

For Procurement Information- https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/1129

North America to maintain its dominance by 2032

Region-wise, North America held the largest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for nearly two-fifths of the global protein engineering market revenue, and is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period. This is attributed to the well-established healthcare system, rise in prevalence of chronic diseases, technological advancement in devices, and rise in number of product approvals.

However, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 14.0% from 2023 to 2032. Rise in the prevalence of chronic diseases in the Asia-Pacific region, such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and diabetes, which necessitates advanced therapeutics, is expected to drive the growth of the protein engineering market in the region.

Leading Market Players:

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.

Takara Holdings, Inc.

Promega Corporation

New England Biolabs

Jena Bioscience GmbH

Danaher Corporation

Creative Biolabs

Amgen, Inc.

Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global protein engineering market. These players have adopted strategies such as product launch, product approval, acquisition, agreement, and partnership 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:

Dysphagia Supplement Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20222032

Portable Dental Chair Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2022-2032

Genetic Testing Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2022-2032

TAVR Embolic Protection Market- Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20222032

Hearing Implants Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20222032

Surgical Gloves Market- Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20222032

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

David Correa

1209 Orange Street,

Corporation Trust Center,

Wilmington, New Castle,

Delaware 19801 USA.

Toll Free: +1-800-792-5285

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Web: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com

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SOURCE Allied Market Research
ABU DHABI, UAE, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PureHealth Holding PJSC (Public Joint Stock Company under incorporation; the "Company"), the largest healthcare platform in the Middle East, has confirmed robust interest in its Initial Public Offering (IPO), on the first day of the subscription period.

PureHealth IPO fully subscribed on first day

Farhan Malik, Founder and Managing Director of PureHealth, said: "We have seen an overwhelmingly strong demand for the IPO as it is fully subscribed on the opening day. I am incredibly excited to see the strong interest from investors and overall positive reception. The IPO offers investors an attractive value proposition and the chance to be part of PureHealth's journey, which is in itself a unique opportunity, we are on a strong growth trajectory with our recent international acquisitions and ambitious future plans, backed by the visionary leadership of Abu Dhabi and the UAE. Following this initial response, we look forward to our listing date with ADX, a significant milestone for PureHealth."

The Final Offer Price has been set at AED 3.26, resulting in an Offering of 1.11 billion shares, which will represent 10% of the share capital of the Company, worth AED 3.62 billion. The subscription period opened today morning and will close on 11 December 2023 for both Retail and Professional Tranches. The Company intends to list its shares on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange ("ADX"), on 20 December 2023.

The Prospectus and detailed information about PureHealth, its IPO, and the subscription process can be found at purehealth.ae/investor-relations/.

About PureHealth

By advancing the science of longevity, PureHealth is introducing the healthcare of the future from the UAE to the rest of the world. PureHealth is the largest integrated healthcare platform in the Middle East, with an ecosystem that challenges lifespans and reimagines health spans. With 25+ hospitals, 100+ clinics, multiple diagnostic centers, health insurance solutions, pharmacies, health tech, procurement, investments and more, its groundbreaking innovations are at the forefront of healthcare, as the company is on a mission to unlock time for humankind.

PureHealth's network of healthcare facilities across Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates comprises:

SEHA  Abu Dhabi Health Services Company  One of the largest healthcare networks of hospitals and clinics in the UAE

 One of the largest healthcare networks of hospitals and clinics in the UAE Daman  The National Health Insurance Company, the UAE's leading health insurer

 The National Health Insurance Company, the UAE's leading health insurer The Medical Office  Overseeing Sheikh Khalifa Hospitals and healthcare facilities established under the initiatives of H.H. the President of the UAE

 Overseeing Sheikh and healthcare facilities established under the initiatives of H.H. the President of the UAE Rafed  The UAE's largest healthcare Group Purchasing Organization

 The UAE's largest healthcare Group Purchasing Organization PureLab  Managing and operating the largest network of laboratories in the region

 Managing and operating the largest network of laboratories in the region Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center  Specialist healthcare center focused on cell therapy and regenerative medicine

 Specialist healthcare center focused on cell therapy and regenerative medicine One Health  Sales, service support, and engineering network that provides end-to-end medical solutions

provides end-to-end medical solutions The Life Corner  Abu Dhabi's first holistic pharmacy, serving the health and wellness establishment

 first holistic pharmacy, serving the health and wellness establishment Ardent - The fourth largest privately held acute care hospital operator in the USA

To learn more, please visit www.purehealth.ae

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2294408/Pure_Health_Holding_PJSC.jpg

SOURCE Pure Health Holding PJSC
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools begins school bus electrification

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) announced today it is taking its first steps towards school bus electrification. The initial deployment will include three school buses and three chargers. With the support of funding from Phase II of the North Carolina Volkswagen Settlementa $68 million fund for projects that reduce NOx emissions and improve air qualitythe district will deploy its three new electric buses to support some of the transportation needs of the 105,000 students it transports each day on 836 buses that are in the fleet's daily rotation. The total fleet has 1,061 buses. The project is being managed in collaboration with Electrification-as-a-Service (EaaS) provider Highland Electric Fleets , who assisted with the grant application and will also provide charging infrastructure implementation.

"We are extremely excited to join the ranks of school transportation systems who are embracing new technology for their fleets," said Brian Schultz, Chief Operations Officer for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. "The buses will also reduce emissions of greenhouse gasses."

CMS is taking a key step forward as a national leader in providing clean transportation to its students as the district is home to North Carolina's largest school bus fleet and is the 10th largest school bus fleet in the U.S. When the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) announced the Phase II awardees, it provided a total of 161 funded school bus replacements including 43 electric buses. The 43 electric buses will reduce more than 126 tons of NOx emissions over their lifetimes.

"North Carolina is becoming a leader in the energy transition and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools' commitment to take the first steps towards electrifying their school bus fleet helps to drive the state's clean energy goals further," said Matt Stanberry, Vice President of Market Development at Highland. "We look forward to this partnership to help provide clean, affordable, and reliable transportation to students and the community."

About Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is the 17th largest school district in the nation and the second largest in North Carolina. Under the leadership of Superintendent Crystal Hill, Ed.D., the district provides academic instruction and support to more than 141,000 students across Mecklenburg County.

Our vision is to create an innovative, inclusive, student-centered environment that supports the development of independent learners. With a focus on ensuring all students reach their full potential, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools leads the community in educational excellence, inspiring intellectual curiosity, creativity and achievement.

About Highland Electric Fleets

Highland Electric Fleets is the leading provider of electrification-as-a-service for school districts, governments, and fleet operators in North America. Founded in 2019, Highland offers a unique suite of products that make it simple and affordable to upgrade to electric fleets today. Active in 30 states and Canada, Highland is responsible for the first use of electric school buses in a commercial vehicle-to-grid (V2G) program and the largest electric school bus project in the United States to date. To learn more, visit https://highlandfleets.com .

Media Contacts

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools

Susan Vernon-Devlin

Executive Director, Communications

980-343-0954 (office)

980-266-1518 (cell)

[email protected]

DKC News for Highland

[email protected]

SOURCE Highland Electric Fleets
Guests attend the Hong Ting Forum-Dialogue in Nairobi held in Nairobi, Kenya, Nov. 14, 2023. Representatives from China and Kenya on Tuesday attended a forum held in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi, where they discussed viable pathways for both sides to pursue in their quest for modernization. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

NAIROBI, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Representatives from China and Kenya on Tuesday attended a forum held in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi, where they discussed viable pathways for both sides to pursue in their quest for modernization.

Themed "Modernization Paths for China and African Countries," the Hong Ting Forum-Dialogue in Nairobi, which attracted participants including diplomats, scholars, and media personnel, spotlighted the shared desire of China and Africa to realize peaceful and inclusive development.

The forum was organized by the Institute of Party History and Literature of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Xinhua Institute, and Xinhua News Agency Africa Regional Bureau.

Zhang Peng, director of the Research Planning Department and Office of the Think Tank Council of the Central Institute of Party History and Literature, said the Chinese path to modernization is a path toward the development of China, featuring shared benefits and win-win cooperation.

Kuang Weilin, member of the Public Diplomacy Consultation Committee of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said China-Africa cooperation has thrived across diverse spheres, including trade, infrastructure development, technology, green economy, and people-to-people exchanges.

"In my view, China and Africa are perfect partners, and by working together, they can make a bigger difference to their modernization programs," Kuang said.

Peter Kagwanja, president and chief executive officer of Africa Policy Institute, a Nairobi-based pan-African think tank, said China and its African partners are in lockstep as both sides pursue a modernization that benefits all citizens. "With a shared painful history of colonialism, both China and Africa have sought each other in their quest to chart development paths that suit their unique circumstances."

The Chinese modernization has demonstrated to African nations that it is possible to eradicate poverty, and accelerate industrialization while protecting the environment by implementing homegrown models, added Kagwanja.

Hassan Khannenje, director of the HORN International Institute for Strategic Studies, a Nairobi-based research and policy think tank, said Africa has benefited more from China's peaceful rise as opposed to predatory economic models imposed on the continent by its Western colonialists.

Khannenje stressed that the China-Africa relationship can be enhanced further through agricultural modernization, technology transfer, academic exchanges, and conflict resolution.

Chinese and Africa's quest for modernization is anchored on the solid principles of mutual respect, shared aspirations, and sincerity, said Dennis Munene Mwaniki, executive director of the China-Africa Center at Africa Policy Institute.

Munene observed that China has been at the forefront of the modernization of Africa's transportation, health, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors, unleashing benefits to local people.

Guests attend the Hong Ting Forum-Dialogue in Nairobi held in Nairobi, Kenya, Nov. 14, 2023. Representatives from China and Kenya on Tuesday attended a forum held in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi, where they discussed viable pathways for both sides to pursue in their quest for modernization. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

Editor: GSY
New win caps off a banner year for RainFocus, which has earned recognition from top industry associations in 2023 for its strengths in events, sales, marketing, and workplace culture

LEHI, Utah, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- RainFocus , provider of the next-generation event marketing platform, has been recognized as "Best Conference Technology (Over 10,000 Attendees)" at the 2023 Event Technology Awards in London, reflecting the company's continued strong awards momentum throughout 2023. In its 11th year, the Event Technology Awards recognize the achievements of companies delivering digital and technological solutions to the events industry.

RainFocus wins "Best Conference Technology (Over 10,000 Attendees)" at 2023 Event Technology Awards.

"Our team works diligently to enable the best event experiences for our clients' customers, and then connect these rich, unified customer insights with our clients' martech investments," said JR Sherman, CEO of RainFocus. "We are extremely proud to be recognized as Best Conference Technology. It's a testament to our unique platform, our scalability, and the powerful technology driving impact and results at events."

This latest award win joins a long list of industry accolades for RainFocus this year:

Throughout 2023, RainFocus powered a growing number of events for clients and their customers around the world. The company is committed to offering a best-in-class platform and event experience to drive attendee engagement and support omnichannel marketing efforts throughout the entire customer journey.

"[RainFocus is] a great partner that leads with listening," said Heather Schneider, Event Operations Manager at Tyler Technologies. "It's an excellent enterprise-level product that is data-first focused. That approach helps event managers immensely."

These awards and other achievements represent only a portion of RainFocus' milestones this year. The company also celebrated its 10-year anniversary, became an Adobe Certified Platinum partner to optimize omnichannel marketing and sales programs, named a new chief marketing officer to drive scalable growth for the organization, supported hundreds of client events, and more. The company is eager to drive new growth in 2024, beginning with its annual flagship event, RainFocus INSIGHT .

About RainFocus

RainFocus is the next-generation event marketing platform built to capture and analyze unprecedented amounts of first-party data for exceptional events and optimized engagement throughout the customer journey. RainFocus powers flawless experiences with secure, scalable solutions to support the entire event lifecycle. The platform integrates with sales and marketing technologies, simplifying event registration, content management, and exhibitor activation across in-person, virtual, and hybrid experiences, all from a single dashboard. Leveraging real-time data, RainFocus provides actionable insights to drive personalization, accelerate qualification and lead conversion, and close deals. For more information, visit www.rainfocus.com .

Additional Resources

Join the conversation with RainFocus on Facebook , Twitter , LinkedIn , and Instagram .

, , , and . Visit RainFocus.com to learn more about our event marketing and management platform. If you're ready to get started, request a demo .

. Discover RainFocus On Demand, the go-to learning destination for event industry leaders to discover the latest trends, thought leadership, and best practices, delivered on demand  any time, anywhere. Learn more .

. Are you interested in joining the RainFocus Partner Program? Apply today .

. Grow your career and help reshape the events industry at RainFocus. Apply here .

Media Contact

Jessica Johnson

[email protected]

SOURCE RainFocus
SCHAUMBURG, Ill., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Rittal, a global leader in industrial and IT enclosures, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its 7th Rittal Application Center (RAC) worldwide, located in Houston, Texas. This state-of-the-art facility, that opened its doors on Tuesday, December 5th, will serve as a collaborative hub for Rittal and Eplan, showcasing the combined power of both organizations.

Andreas Ruzic, Chief Executive Officer of Rittal USA, expressed his enthusiasm for the RAC initiative, stating, "Rittal Application Centers are being launched globally as 'boot camps' for panel builders and switchgear manufacturers. Under the motto 'Join. Apply. Grow.', existing and new customers can collaborate on their projects with Rittal experts, explore new technologies, and test them out in real workshop environments."

Michael Jeschke, Eplan Vice President of North & South America, similarly expressed his optimism for the upcoming grand opening of the RAC, stating, "The opening of the Rittal Application Center is a milestone that makes innovation and experience accessible for our customers."

The RAC in Houston is designed to be a dynamic space where customers can witness the integrated solutions of Rittal, Eplan, and RAS (Rittal Automation Systems). The facility will provide a hands-on experience, allowing customers to explore each component of the value chain, its seamless integration, and how these solutions can effectively address their unique challenges.

Ruzic emphasized the significance of combining hardware and software for optimizing industrial processes. He stated, "The main optimization potential lies in industrialized work processes, especially in times of a skilled worker shortage. The process must become faster, more efficient, and more standardized. The only way to achieve that is by ingeniously combining hardware (Rittal & RAS) and software (Eplan)."

Jeschke further explained how the new RAC supports the customer experience along the value chain by stating, "With this new RAC, customers can witness and experience our processes, technology, sourcing, and the expertise of great individuals who demonstrate the state-of-the-art engineering and highly automated manufacturing process for panels. Our technology and processes drive efficiency for your internal processes while we prove day after day what we promise."

Among the cutting-edge Rittal Automation Systems and solutions to be showcased are:

Perforex Milling Terminal: Milling enclosures and flat parts, drilling, and tapping sub-panels.



Perforex Laser Terminal: Cutting enclosures and flat parts, drilling, and tapping sub-panels.



Secarex: Automated din rail and wire duct cutting machine.



Wire Terminal C10: Automated wire processing (cutting, stripping, crimping, and labeling).



RAS Punch: Automated busbar punching (punching, engraving, thread forming, and cutting).



RAS Bending: Automated busbar bending machine for accurate copper bending to +/-.2".



EPLAN Platform 2024: Faster performance for 3D panel design.

As Rittal expands its global network of Application Centers, the Houston facility represents a pivotal milestone in providing customers with resources to innovate, collaborate, and grow.

About Rittal:

Founded in 1982, Rittal LLC is the fully owned US subsidiary of Rittal GmbH & Co. KG, and is headquartered in Schaumburg, IL. With a main production facility in Urbana, OH, a dedicated Modification Center in Houston, TX, and logistic hubs in Urbana, OH; Springfield, OH; Houston, TX; Sparks, NV; and Atlanta, GA, Rittal LLC is fully committed to providing the United States with quality enclosure solutions.

Founded in 1961 in Germany, Rittal is a global manufacturer of industrial and IT enclosures, racks, and accessories, including cooling solutions and power management systems for industrial, data center, outdoor, and hybrid applications. As the largest enclosure manufacturer in the world, Rittal provides quality solutions for practically any industrial or IT infrastructure application. Rittal is part of the owner-operated Friedhelm Loh Group along with Eplan. Learn more at rittal.us.

About Eplan:

Eplan was founded in 1984 and is part of the owner-operated Friedhelm Loh Group along with Rittal. Eplan provides software and service solutions in the fields of electrical, automation, and mechatronic engineering, including one of the world's leading design software solutions for machine and panel builders. These solutions enable panel and machine builders, system integrators, and their partners and clients to achieve increased productivity, reduced time to market, and predictable profitability with a minimum 40% time savings from pre-sales through project delivery. Learn more at eplanusa.com.

SOURCE EPLAN LLC
Rosewood Continues to Thoughtfully Expand its Presence in the Caribbean, Charting a Course for the Naturally Pristine Island of Barbuda

HONG KONG, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Rosewood Hotels & Resorts is proud to announce today that the secluded island of Barbuda will welcome its latest Caribbean escape as the brand looks to further expand into this highly coveted region. Developed by Murbee Resorts, Rosewood Barbuda will bring an intimate expression of Rosewood's ultra-luxury hospitality experience to the island, featuring 50 resort suites and 35 Rosewood Residences.

Rosewood Barbuda

Known for its year-round warm weather, turquoise water, pink sand beaches, and authentic local culture, Barbuda is an ideal fit for Rosewood as the brand grows its presence throughout the Caribbean islands. Rosewood Barbuda will join Rosewood Baha Mar, Rosewood Little Dix Bay, and Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth, adding another unique gem to a diverse and well-appointed portfolio.

"Rosewood Barbuda will effortlessly complement the existing natural wonders that have long made this intimate destination so captivating," said Radha Arora, President of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. "It is an honor to work with all parties involved in the project to realize our shared vision of creating an ultra-luxury resort that exists in harmony with its surroundings, providing guests with an escape in the truest sense of the word."

"Contributing to further developing the hospitality offer and economy of Antigua & Barbuda is an honor and a responsibility we are proud of," said Kiril and Georgi Domuschiev, Investors in Murbee Resorts. "Rosewood Hotels & Resorts has one of the highest standards of the industry and we are confident our future guests will enjoy the paradise beaches of Barbuda, and the irreproachable hotel service, as much as we do."

Set on 85 secluded acres including 900 meters of pristine beachfront, Rosewood Barbuda will feature the brand's integrative wellness concept, Asaya Spa with a menu of treatments and experiential offerings that address Rosewood's five pillars of wellness: emotional balance, fitness and nutrition, physical therapies, skin health, and community. In addition to the spa's six treatment rooms, wellness seekers can also enjoy an expansive fitness center and two pools, including one dedicated to families.

Offering a diverse culinary program, the property will feature three unique dining outlets including a farm-to-table restaurant, which will showcase the flavors of the island by making use of local produce.

Hon. Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda said "This significant investment will greatly boost Barbuda's local economy, providing employment and services for the island's citizens. With sustainable development at the core of the hotel's construction, the project will solidify Barbuda's position as the destination of choice for the discerning traveler."

Rosewood Barbuda is set to open in 2028 and will seamlessly encapsulate Rosewood's guiding A Sense of Place philosophy by reflecting the island's unspoiled natural beauty and vibrant culture.

About Rosewood Hotels & Resorts

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts manages a global collection of 33 one-of-a-kind luxury hotels, resorts, and residences in 21 countries. Each Rosewood property embraces the brand's A Sense of Place philosophy to reflect the individual location's history, culture, and sensibilities. The Rosewood collection includes some of the world's most legendary hotels and resorts, including The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel in New York, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek in Dallas, and Hotel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel in Paris, as well as new classics such as Rosewood Hong Kong and Rosewood Sao Paulo. For those who wish to stay a little longer, Rosewood Residences offer a distinct opportunity for the ownership or rental of properties co-located with a Rosewood hotel or resort and of standalone for-sale residences. Rosewood Residences are defined by the brand's commitment to Enriched Living through thoughtful details and experiences that enhance the quality of life while evoking a sense of discovery and inspiration.

For more information, please visit rosewoodhotels.com

Connect with us: Facebook, Instagram, WeChat @RosewoodHotels

About Murbee Resorts

Murbee Resorts Inc. is a luxury real estate developer dedicated to crafting residential experiences that resonate with the soul of the Caribbean.

In collaboration with leading hospitality brands, the company creates unforgettable moments with an authentically Caribbean spirit.

Offering some of the Archipelago's most stunning luxury properties in prime, unspoilt locations, Murbee Resorts' commitment to sustainability is integrated into every step of their projects, protecting historical landmarks and natural resources with a distinct respect for the natural beauty of the region.

Media contact : Enquiries@theagencypartnership.com

Media Contacts:

North America United Kingdom Krista Ritterhoff Jessie Firmstone Nike Communications Purple PR Telephone: +1 914 374 1326 Telephone: +44 7908 579 303 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]



Mainland China Hong Kong SAR Yvonne Ma Jaclyn Tsang Gusto Luxe Karla Otto Telephone: +86 15121020056 Telephone: +852 2575 7783 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]



Singapore

Livi Hay

Purple PR

Telephone: +65 9811 9179

Email: [email protected]



SOURCE Rosewood Hotels & Resorts
The CX innovator Celebrates Year-End Success reshaping Experience Data (ED) Analysis

ZURICH, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SANDSIV, a global pioneer in Voice of the Customer (VOC) and Customer Experience Management (CXM) enterprise solutions, concludes the year by unveiling cutting-edge AI-driven features within the acclaimed sandsiv+ platform. This update fortifies the platform's existing AI foundation, bringing enhanced capabilities to clients worldwide.

In today's competitive business landscape where customer experience (CX) reigns supreme, SANDSIV stands as a true innovator, revolutionizing the industry with its state-of-the-art AI functionalities. The enhanced sandsiv+ platform introduces a comprehensive suite of AI-powered tools, poised to redefine how businesses engage with customers, employees, partners, and prospects.

The suite of AI functionalities, particularly in data analytics, has seamlessly transformed from a vision into a tangible reality. This robust toolkit encompasses automated data labeling, exceptionally precise sentiment analysis, sophisticated topic detection and categorization, in-depth journey analysis, and actionable recommendations. Significantly, these advanced capabilities are accessible across multiple languages and dialects, ensuring a globally applicable and inclusive approach.

"Enabling the evolution of CX, our suite of AI technologies revolutionizes the landscape by cutting ownership costs, expediting planning-to-execution cycles, and amplifying precision and user-friendliness. Positioned at the forefront of innovation, this suite exemplifies our dedication to enriching experiences, empowering businesses, and setting transformative standards," stated Karl Warnsing, Product Manager at SANDSIV.

In the domain of AI and CX, data privacy and security stand as paramount pillars. SANDSIV's deployable AI models, whether in the cloud or on-premises, adhere to the highest security standards, ensuring impenetrable protection of customer data. This commitment underscores SANDSIV's dedication to both cutting-edge technology and responsible data management.

"From our foundation, the integration of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence has been a core component of our ethos. We have consistently been pioneers in AI advancements across all aspects of our solutions. Our platform, sandsiv+, increasingly embraces AI technologies, positioning us to revolutionize Customer Experience Management imminently", said Federico Cesconi, CEO at SANDSIV.

SANDSIV remains unwavering in its commitment to being the unparalleled AI-powered CX Enterprise solution in the market. Engineered to surpass the evolving needs of modern businesses, its tool promises not just to meet but exceed expectations. As the company continues to innovate, clients can expect a continuous stream of advancements in their solutions.

Experience SANDSIV's innovation, and explore the enhanced sandsiv+ platform, where innovation meets excellence: https://sandsiv.com/sandsiv-ai/whats-new-ai/q4-2023/

About SANDSIV:

SANDSIV, a pioneering force in AI-driven CX solutions, is dedicated to enabling businesses to harness artificial intelligence for in-depth customer understanding and exceptional service delivery. Their unwavering commitment to innovation, data privacy, and effective problem-solving positions them as a leader poised to set new benchmarks in human experiences.

About sandsiv+

sandsiv+ captures, analyzes, integrates, improves, and measures customer experience. Introduced in 2014, this next-generation CX solution harmonizes data from direct and indirect channels, leveraging artificial intelligence for inferred data generation. Its analytical features, powered by advanced AI technologies including Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Deep Machine Learning, deliver faster, more accurate actionable insights. The solution is designed to support complex integration, customization, and configuration.

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Media Contact details: Silvia Bello; Digital Marketing Manager, [email protected]

SOURCE SANDSIV
DUBAI, UAE, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The simplicity and lax requirements of digital nomad visas have made them easily accessible, and countries like Portugal and Spain, which have excellent infrastructure, great internet connection, and an outstanding standard of living, draw in more digital nomads by the day, according to experts at Dubai-headquartered citizenship and residency by investment advisors Savory and Partners.

A recent research quoted by the company estimates that there are 16.9 million digital nomads roaming the globe. This is a whopping 162% increase from 2019, just four years earlier.

As soon as Portugal introduced its digital nomad visa in October of 2022, the applications started pouring in. While the government hasn't announced the number of applications it has received, Portugal's Labour Minister did announce that the country approved 550 applications within the first six months.

Two months after launching its visa in September of 2021, Greece received 2,918 applications, approving an astonishing 1,693 applicants. The government is yet to release any new statistics, but going off that outstanding start it is safe to assume it is still garnering massive attention.

Germany also boasts impressive numbers, having issued a total of 3,638 visas in just one year since the introduction of its visa in 2018.

According to Residency Malta, the government branch responsible for the digital nomad visa, it has issued 1,041 visas to date, with an average approval rate of 78%.

Croatia, one of the first countries to introduce a pure digital nomad visa in early 2021 as a response to the rise in remote workers, has approved 680 applications, while 672 are still pending approval.

Not just Europe

"It's not just Europe but even Barbados' digital nomad visa, dubbed the Welcome Stamp, has been doing outstandingly well, receiving a total of 3,511 applications between 2020 and 2022", a digital nomad specialist at Savory & Partners reports.

While digital nomads typically use visa-free access or visas to stay in countries for a few months at a time before moving on to the next, digital nomad visas provide a sense of comfort and stability that aligns perfectly with their lifestyle, giving them ample time to enjoy the country they are in before moving on to the next.

Unsurprising demand

The rapid growth in application numbers and the surging demand for digital nomad visas isn't surprising. They are extremely simple to apply to, have fast processing times ranging from a few days to a couple of months, and they do not require any business establishment or investment.

Portugal's digital nomad visa, for example, only requires applicants to prove a monthly income of 3,040 per month, while Spain's visa has a lower threshold of just 2,160 per month.

Savory & Partners is an accredited agent for multiple governments where citizenship by investment is offered. The company has coverage in over 20 jurisdictions, including Europe and was the first firm to obtain all five authorised agent licenses for the governments of the Caribbean Islands. It has processed second passports for over 4,000 citizens with a 100 per cent success rate.

With a presence in 3 continents and 7 countries and more than 60 experts worldwide, the company's multinational staff comprises advisors who guide clients in English, Arabic, Farsi, French, Spanish and Hindi.

To know more about Savory & Partners, visit www.savoryandpartners.com or email [email protected].

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SOURCE Savory And Partners
Infused with ScentAir signature Pine Forest fragrance, Holiday Hangers add a fresh boost of pine to artificial trees, wreaths and more.

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ScentAir, a trailblazer in scent marketing and home fragrance is giving artificial trees and holiday decor a freshly cut scent by introducing Holiday Hangers. Available online, these scented ornaments blend seamlessly into artificial greenery, while sprucing it up with ScentAir's classic Pine Forest fragrance.

ScentAir Holiday Hangers add a boost of fresh, pine fragrance to artificial trees and more.

"Many families switch to artificial trees and decorations for convenience, but they really miss the smell of a freshly cut tree," said Logan Andres, Senior Vice President of Products and Marketing at ScentAir. "We're thrilled that Holiday Hangers will give people back the nostalgic fragrance of fresh pine and can bring that extra special touch of holiday magic into their homes."

Ideal additions to trees, wreaths and garlands, Holiday Hangers keep faux foliage smelling fresh for up to 30 days. Other benefits of this must-have holiday accessory include:

Mess-Free Fragrance: With Holiday Hangers, there's no need to touch fragrance reeds. The mess-free design ensures a hassle-free aromatic experience.

Simply Self-Hanging: Featuring a built-in decorative hanger, they easily attach to branches and limbs. No additional hooks or strings needed.

Unparalleled Quality: Infused with ScentAir's best-selling, professional-quality fragrance Pine Forest.

Elegantly Festive: With a simple, yet festive design, Holiday Hangers are artfully crafted to complement other tree ornaments.

Make this holiday season memorable with ScentAir's Holiday Hangers and keep guests guessing. Holiday Hangers are available at ScentAir.com.

ScentAir: Trusted by Brands, Loved by Families

About ScentAir: ScentAir Technologies, LLC., privately held and founded in 1994, provides best-in-class ambient scent marketing solutions to many of the world's most recognized brands. As the global leader in olfactory marketing, the Company creates memorable impressions for both small businesses and global enterprises, elevating their customer experience through the power of scent. Based in Charlotte, NC, USA, and corporate offices in the United Kingdom, France, Netherlands, China, Hong Kong, Japan and Australia. The Company's 525+ global team members service customers in 119 countries through its dedicated global supply chain and manufacturing operations in North America, Europe, and Asia.

ScentAir is committed to the creation of customized scent strategies that boost clients' brand sentiments, customer loyalty, and sales. To learn more, go to ScentAir.com .

SOURCE ScentAir
LOUISVILLE, Ky., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A child psychologist who discovered resilience in human development depends on "ordinary magic" has won the 2024 University of Louisville Grawemeyer Award in Psychology.

Ann Masten, a professor in the University of Minnesota's Institute of Child Development, earned the prize for showing that our capacity to overcome potentially harmful experiences comes from ordinary but powerful adaptive processes inside us and from our supportive connections with others.

Photo by Patrick O

Resilience science began around 1970 as a search to explain how some children who face severe adversity seem to thrive while others do not.

"As I studied children and families dealing with war, disasters, poverty, violence and homelessness, I found a consistent set of surprisingly ordinary but powerful factors at work," she said. "Resilience didn't depend on special qualities but on a capacity to adapt that we develop over time as we are nurtured, learn and gain experience."

Supportive relationships, a sense of belonging, self-control, problem-solving skills, optimism, motivation and a sense of purpose all play a part in creating the "ordinary magic" that makes us resilient, she found.

"Her work is inspiring because it reveals that the human capacity to overcome adversity does not rely on rare ingredients," said Nicholaus Noles, psychology award director. "The seeds of resilience, of success, are within all of us, and we need only time and the right kind of relationships and experiences to overcome the obstacles we face."

Masten's findings have shaped policy and practice in many fields outside psychology such as pediatrics, school counseling, social work and disaster response. People in more than 180 countries including Ukraine have taken part in her online course about the resilience of children in war and disaster.

A licensed psychologist in Minnesota since 1986, Masten holds a doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Minnesota and a bachelor's degree from Smith College. She was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2021 and has received mentoring and lifetime contribution awards from the American Psychological Association.

Recipients of next year's Grawemeyer Awards are being named this week pending formal trustee approval. The annual, $100,000 prizes also honor seminal ideas in music, world order, education and religion. Winners will visit Louisville in the spring to accept their awards and give free talks on their winning ideas.

SOURCE University of Louisville Grawemeyer Award
BECKINGTON, England and DAVENTRY, England, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SEA has awarded a contract to Razorleaf Corporation Ltd to be the implementation partner for Aras Innovator, Aras' next generation product lifecycle management (PLM) platform. Razorleaf was selected for its long-standing expertise and relationship working with Aras and Aras Innovator since 2008 when the flexible, open- source PLM platform was launched.

SEAs high-performance countermeasure system that provides rapid threat response to incoming air, surface, or subsurface threats. SEA Logo

The core functionality of the Aras platform is to provide a single digital thread through all SEA products, from conception and requirements through to delivery and beyond. SEA will work collaboratively with Razorleaf Corporation to roll out this PLM platform over the next 18 months.

Continued delivery excellence to our people at SEA, our customers and our partners is at the core of what we do, and implementing Aras Innovator will provide a more reliable, consistent, and streamlined set of quality and engineering evidence, available in a central, digital location.

Aras Innovator is a flexible, open PLM system that brings recognised best practices into business processes. It will support our ongoing innovation and new product development, enabling transparency and collaboration across engineering processes and the ability to gather and access engineering information quickly and in a controlled manner.

James Stevens, Head of Discipline for Systems Engineering said: "Implementing Aras is a major step for SEA in streamlining the way we manage our products throughout their lifecycle. This central configuration management application will be a single source of truth across all our disciplines and enable improvements to efficiency and effectiveness going forward. Razorleaf was selected for this contract following a significant research task and we are looking forward to working collaboratively to implement this tool over the next 18 months."

Michael Welti, Managing Director of Razorleaf Corporation Ltd, said "SEA is experiencing many of the common challenges we see with complex manufacturers, which include a need to accelerate innovation, implement consistent and collaborative business processes, and integrate across data silos to support the creation of a digital thread. Aras Innovator is one of the most flexible PLM platforms that will adapt to their business and future proof product development strategies as they evolve. We are excited to partner with SEA and be a part of their success in meeting digital transformation goals."

"Our Razorleaf Ltd team is focused on bringing Aras Innovator to European manufacturers who want to evolve their innovation processes, shorten time-to-market, and build out a digital thread with integrated data strategies," stated Eric Doubell, CEO of Razorleaf Global. "Our partnership approach starts with mapping out an implementation road map that factors in SEA's priorities while taking full advantage of Aras Innovator. We have been working with the platform since 2008 and are confident that Aras Innovator will support SEA's digital transformation initiatives today and tomorrow."

About SEA

SEA has more than 60 years' experience in delivering and supporting advanced solutions that maximise defence mission capability. SEA also develops traffic enforcement and safety systems that enable more efficient transport management.

In the defence domain, SEA has applications in ship and fleet protection, agile-platform anti-submarine warfare and integrated underwater situational awareness. SEA manufactures and supports a wide range of capabilities designed to provide a rapid response to threats, track and monitor targets, and ensure system effectiveness and interoperation. SEA systems are in-service with the UK navy and multiple navies across the globe, providing agile solutions in nature's most challenging environment.

Employing approximately 340 staff, SEA has UK offices in Beckington, Bristol and Barnstaple and a Canadian office in Quebec. SEA was acquired by Cohort plc in 2007.

www.sea.co.uk

About Razorleaf Corporation

Founded in 2000, Razorleaf is a consulting & systems integrator with specialized expertise in PLM, MES, integration, migration, and test automation. We are focused on helping manufacturing organizations connect products and processes across the digital enterprise to drive more value from the innovation process. Led by a highly skilled and seasoned team of experts across the United States, Europe, and Asia, Razorleaf transforms businesses by offering comprehensive consulting and implementation services focused on managing the digital thread across the product life cycle and supply chain.

https://www.razorleaf.com

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PORTLAND, Ore., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Settlement Intelligence, a customer-focused legal technology startup, is pleased to announce a seed investment from Verify Venture Studio in Portland, Oregon. Founded by a team of legal and technology experts, Settlement Intelligence has developed a comprehensive SaaS service designed to streamline and enhance the settlement negotiation process for legal professionals. The platform leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to ingest extensive information about traumatic injuries, bodily injury claim software, medical bill review software, and personal injury demand letters to create the industry-leading demand letter SaaS service.

The investment from Verify Venture Studio will enable Settlement Intelligence to accelerate its development efforts and expand its reach in the legal tech market. "Settlement Intelligence's vision aligns perfectly with our mission of supporting disruptive innovators that drive positive change," said Russell McLemore, Managing Partner at Verify Venture Studio. "We believe that their service has the potential to transform the legal industry, and we are excited to be a part of their journey."

Settlement Intelligence CEO Charlette Sinclar expressed gratitude for the support and confidence shown by Verify Venture Studio: "This partnership is a significant milestone for Settlement Intelligence. It will allow us to grow our team, extend our product offerings, and reach a wider audience of legal professionals. We are thrilled to have Verify Venture Studio as a strategic partner on our path to supporting legal professionals in securing better outcomes for their clients."

About Settlement Intelligence: Settlement Intelligence ( settlementintelligence.com ) is a legal technology startup in Portland, Oregon, that utilizes expert-trained artificial intelligence and machine learning to provide demand letters and data-driven insights for legal professionals. The Settlement Intelligence platform not only automates demand letter writing, but employs three different proprietary demand letter formats that have proven successful in triggering insurance claims evaluation software. This first-of-its-kind SaaS enhances settlement negotiations, enabling legal practitioners to make informed decisions and achieve maximum settlement value for their cases.

About Verify Venture Studio: Verify Venture Studio ( verifyventurestudio.com ) is a venture studio in Portland, Oregon, and Cincinnati, Ohio. The firm moves teams from ideas to launch through rigorous testing and validation to ensure that customers, entrepreneurs, and investors are delighted by the products and services refined by our practices. They are always excited to speak with leaders, no matter the stage of business.

Contact:

Lance Charlish

[email protected]

SOURCE Verify Venture Studio
NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In a recent Technavio report titled Sexual Wellness Market is projected to grow at a rapid pace in the coming years. The market size is set to grow by USD 46.47 billion, accelerating at a CAGR of 11.17% from 2022 to 2027. According to the research, it is revealed that APAC is estimated to contribute 33% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Buy the report

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Sexual Wellness Market 2023-2027

Sexual wellness initiatives and crowdfunding campaigns serve as significant factors driving market expansion. These initiatives aim to raise awareness about sexual health by endorsing products such as sensual lingerie, condoms, contraceptives, and sexual aids, emphasizing disease prevention. Crowdfunding plays a crucial role in introducing modernized female-centric pleasure products. Initiatives like Healthy Native Youth facilitate open dialogues regarding sexual health. Collectively, these endeavors not only promote the use of sexual aids but also drive sales, contributing to the growth of the global sexual wellness market. The report presents a comprehensive analysis of how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the sexual wellness market, outlining optimistic, probable, and pessimistic forecast scenarios.

The sexual wellness market in North America, particularly led by the US and Canada, is experiencing significant growth due to increased awareness and acceptance of related products. Local manufacturers like Church & Dwight optimize the supply chain, while companies concentrate on technological advancements to expand their market share. The robust retail infrastructure in North America, including major stores like Walmart, Target, CVS, and Walgreens, further boosts the sales of sexual wellness items.

Technavio highlights the emerging trends of sexual wellness Market:

Increasing recognition of sex toys' health advantages is a major trend in the global sexual wellness market.

Women opt for sex toys post-gynaecological surgery and childbirth to maintain vaginal tissue flexibility and prevent vaginal dryness, potentially averting issues like atrophy and discomfort.

Medical dilators and vibrators help manage conditions like involuntary muscle contractions around the vaginal opening.

Men with erectile dysfunction find relief and options for orgasm through tools like cock rings, penis pumps, and constriction bands.

Companies like Luvu Brands Inn, Mayer Laboratories Inc, and Doc Johnson Enterprises are some of the major players in the sexual wellness market. For more information on companies or its offerings, download the sample report

The market is segmented by Product (Sex Toys, Condom And Contraceptive, Erotic Lingerie, Personal Lubricants and Others), Distribution Channel (Offline and Online), Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America and Middle East And Africa)

The sex toys segment is anticipated for substantial growth in market share during the forecast period. The market's expansion is linked to changing societal attitudes, resulting in a larger demand for sex toys. Moreover, the growing presence and approval of these products in mainstream media have contributed to their broader acceptance in society.

Detail Insights on impact of each segment and make informed business decisions, download the sample report now

The sexual wellness market is expected to see significant growth, driven by increasing awareness through initiatives and crowdfunding campaigns. While social stigma and legal complications hinder growth in some regions, the market thrives on growing acceptance, especially for sex toys. The market, led by companies like Church and Dwight Co. Inc., witnesses a rising demand for sex toys, aiding its segmented growth. Despite challenges, major regions like North America and APAC contribute significantly to this market, with the US and Canada dominating the North American sector due to enhanced product awareness and distribution channels in major retail outlets. Major players in the industry, including Adam and Eve Stores, Doc Johnson Enterprises, and Good Clean Love Inc., are implementing strategies to improve their market presence through alliances, expansions, and innovative product launches.

Related reports

Condom Market: The condom market is projected to increase by USD 5,117.84 million, and the market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.68% between 2022 and 2027. In 2017 the size of the market was valued at USD 5,874.06 million.

Online Sex Toys Market: The online sex toys market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 12.45% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 13.40 billion.

TOC

Executive Summary Market Landscape Market Sizing Historic Market Size Five Forces Analysis Market Segmentation by Product Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel Customer Landscape Geographic Landscape Drivers, Challenges, and Trends Company Landscape Company Analysis Appendix

About US

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
The Ukrainian industrial company Interpipe, due to the blockade of the Polish-Ukrainian border in November of this year, received a total loss or additionally spent $1.2 million, Oleksiy Yanovsky, director of procurement and logistics of the group, told Interfax-Ukraine in response to the corresponding request.

"Under the blockade of the Black Sea ports, the main modes of transport for delivering Interpipe products to clients in 2023 are road and water, which account for a total of 79% of shipped products. At the same time, road transportation to European clients is very important for our company, because over nine months, their share accounted for 38% of all shipped products," Yanovsky said.

According to him, cars with the company's products actively crossed the Polish-Ukrainian border through the Yahodyn - Dorohusk, Krakovets - Korczowa, and Rava-Ruska - Hrebenne crossings, but since November 6 they have been blocked.

"This led to Interpipe not delivering already manufactured products to European customers, and some orders were postponed from November to December. These are our direct losses in November from the strike," the director of procurement and logistics said.

He also said that in addition to this there are also indirect losses. So, in order to avoid blocked checkpoints, the flow of cars was redirected to other free crossings in Slovakia and Romania. The increase in transport leverage led to an increase in the cost of transporting products.

In addition, the load on the Slovak and Romanian crossings has increased, which is why queues have formed there and the idle time of cars has increased.

"Our clients are also preparing to file claims and cancel transactions already concluded. At the same time, Interpipe bought a number of imported goods, which also cannot cross the border due to the blockade. So, we were left without the necessary imports, and European sellers of these goods - without sales to Ukraine," Yanovsky emphasized.

Thus, the total (direct and indirect) losses of Interpipe for November amounted to $1.2 million, the top manager summarized.
Under LeBlanc's direction, SNHU has transformed from a small regional university to an internationally known leader in higher education, having grown from 2,500 students to more than 225,000 learners, making SNHU the largest nonprofit provider of higher education in the country. With his vision to make higher education more accessible, more than 200,000 students have earned their degrees during LeBlanc's tenure at SNHU. The university also ranks among the most innovative universities in the country and as a top employer nationwide.

"It has been the honor of a lifetime to be the president of SNHU for the past 20 years," LeBlanc said. "When I arrived in 2003 to this small New Hampshire campus, I found a rock-solid commitment to mission, a dedication to students, and a hunger to do more and be more. I found a home, and I am so proud of the work we have been able to do together to help expand access to education and transform the lives of our learners."

LeBlanc's Legacy

As SNHU's fifth president, LeBlanc has played a pivotal role in reshaping the university into what it is today: a forward-thinking global institution committed to student success, accessibility, and innovation, with a reputation as a pioneer and leader in online education. Throughout LeBlanc's tenure, SNHU was named to the "World's Fifty Most Innovative Companies" list and was the only university included. Forbes Magazine has listed him as one of its 15 "Classroom Revolutionaries" and one of the "most influential people in higher education." Washington Monthly named him one of America's 10 most innovative university presidents. In 2018, LeBlanc won the prestigious TIAA Institute Hesburgh Award for Leadership Excellence in Higher Education, joining some of the most respected university and college presidents in American higher education. Committed to caring for its people, SNHU, under LeBlanc's guidance, is the only institution to be named "A Great College to Work For" every year since the list's inception, a recognition based on employee surveys.

Over the past 10 years, as SNHU positioned itself for growth, LeBlanc helped launch several initiatives to expand access to underserved learners worldwide including the first competency-based education (CBE) model approved for federal funding by the Department of Education, the SNHU Global Education Movement (GEM), which serves refugee and displaced learners in Africa and the Middle East, and an effort to reinvent the campus experience that reimagined the cost and delivery of campus-based education to address the growing issue of college affordability and accessibility.

"Reflecting on the past 20 years, I'm most proud of SNHU's culture of kindness, support, and a willingness to work together and learn which permeates the university," LeBlanc said. "The student-first approach in everything we do doesn't need to be taught, it's at the center of every decision at every level of the organization."

LeBlanc's commitment to SNHU's home of Manchester, New Hampshire, was recognized in 2023 when he was named Citizen of the Year by the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce. Under LeBlanc's leadership, SNHU has launched many local initiatives to support the community, including partnering with the YWCA NH to launch the Center for New Americans to support families who are new to the United States; donating funds and volunteer hours to support the homeless; and delivering thousands of meals to city students during the pandemic.

A lifelong learner himself, LeBlanc conducted research and gathered interviews with experts to author two books, Students First: Access, Equity, and Opportunity in Higher Education, published by Harvard Education Press in 2021, and Broken: How Our Social Systems are Failing Us and How We Can Fix Them published in 2022. His written work explores the ways higher education has traditionally left some students behind and challenges the industry to rethink delivery models and evolve to meet students where they are.

LeBlanc's own life experience as a first-generation college graduate informs his commitment to increasing access to higher education. He immigrated to the United States from Canada when he was three years old. His parents, both of whom had eighth grade educations, worked tirelessly to care for the family. The youngest of five children, LeBlanc was the first person in his extended family to attend college and is a graduate of Framingham State University (BA), Boston College (MA), and the University of Massachusetts (PhD).

"Paul pioneered the transformation of SNHU and challenged the conventional wisdom that has long defined higher education, allowing hundreds of thousands of underserved students to advance their educations and careers," said Winnie Lerner, Board Chair, SNHU Board of Trustees. "His leadership has been courageous and inspired and his impact will be felt for generations to come. The Board is immensely grateful to Paul and all he has done to deliver on its mission to provide a high-quality, accessible education, transforming the lives of students and families around the world."

SNHU's Next Leader

Ryerson, who will assume the presidency on July 1, 2024, has vast experience in higher education and nonprofit management: she was president and CEO of Wells College in Aurora, New York, for 18 years; was the president of the AARP Foundation for 8 years; and was a member of the SNHU Board of Trustees for five years before taking on the provost role at SNHU in 2022. Over the next several months, LeBlanc and Ryerson will work closely together to ensure a smooth transition for the entire SNHU community.

"It has been my privilege to serve as university provost, and I'm deeply honored to step into the role of president next July," Ryerson said. "Paul's legacy is one of bold vision and generosity of spirit. He has guided this institution through immense growth and has led us in building a culture dedicated to student success - our proudest tradition. Over the next six months, he and I will work together on a transition plan that honors the work of our people and prioritizes the experience of our learners."

"As we make this transition to new leadership, SNHU continues to thrive and grow," Lerner said. "Lisa Marsh Ryerson is a proven, talented leader who will build upon the strong foundation and bring fresh thinking. Through her time on our board and as university provost, she has showcased her deep commitment to the university and our students and will be a source of energy and ingenuity. We are thrilled she will assume the role."

LeBlanc's Next Chapter

LeBlanc is looking forward to returning to his original graduate work, studying the impact of new, paradigm-shifting technologies on society. His first book examined the way educators were trying to shape the emerging world of personal computers and networks in the mid-80s. Coming full circle, he will research and write about AI's impact on the workforce and learning during a year-long sabbatical.

In speaking about his decision to step down and the personal impact of his leadership, LeBlanc said, "While there is never a perfect time, SNHU is at a very good place in its institutional journey. We successfully navigated the challenges posed by the pandemic, revamped our organization, achieved record enrollments, assembled a formidable team, and we enjoy robust fiscal health. After 20 years, I believe that SNHU can benefit from a fresh perspective. I love the SNHU community and while change is forever constant, that sentiment will remain unchanged for me."

Reactions from The Industry

"Throughout his time at SNHU, Paul has been committed to breaking down barriers and unlocking opportunities for students around the world," said Arne Duncan, former U.S. Secretary of Education. "Whether it is students studying in a refugee camp or the south side of Chicago, Paul's work reminds us of the power of education to raise people up and change the trajectory of their lives. While people often associate Paul with innovation, what stands out for me is his big heart and his commitment to underserved students."

"While historically underserved populations of learners have often been given inferior or just 'good enough' educational options, Paul and his team have brought cutting edge innovation and student-centered learning to tens of thousands of students and transformed their lives and the lives of their families," said Dr. Sonja Brookins Santelises, CEO, Baltimore City Public Schools and SNHU Board member. "They have done it in refugee camps, in low-income communities, and with students who are too often left behind by traditional higher education  this is disruptive education in service to humanity."

"Paul's two decades of leadership have not only transformed SNHU, but also the landscape of higher education," said Ted Mitchell, president, American Council on Education. "His dedication to student success and willingness to challenge the status quo underscore a legacy that will resonate far beyond his tenure. Paul has not just led, but he has redefined what it means to be a true innovator in higher education. Paul is and will continue to be an inspiration to all of us and an example of higher education leadership at its very best."

Click here to download a media kit.

About Southern New Hampshire University: Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private, nonprofit institution with a 91-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults. Now serving more than 225,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 accredited undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH. Recognized as one of the "Most Innovative" regional universities by U.S. News & World Report and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, SNHU is committed to expanding access to high quality, affordable pathways that meet the needs of each learner. Learn more at www.snhu.edu.

SOURCE Southern New Hampshire University
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The national nonprofit Building Homes for Heroes gifted a mortgage-free home today to retired Marine Sgt. Dustin Francisco, a Purple Heart recipient and grandson of a Navajo Code Talker, in a spirit of gratitude this holiday season.

Continuing a family legacy of service, Francisco, 39, joined the military in 2004 out of Albuquerque and later was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2011 in Afghanistan, his unit was ambushed and struck by a grenade blast that caused a traumatic brain injury and shrapnel wounds. Discharged in 2013, he suffers from chronic PTSD, migraines and tinnitus.

"We are honored to give back to Sgt. Dustin Francisco, a true American hero. His sacrifice and dedication deserve our deepest gratitude, and this home is a small token of our immense appreciation for Dustin and a tribute to the Navajo Code Talkers," said Andy Pujol, founder and CEO of Building Homes for Heroes.

Bedecked in a holiday theme, the 1,890-square-foot home, donated by JPMorgan Chase to Building Homes for Heroes, was gifted to Francisco, his partner, Kimberlyn Tom, and four children. The home gifting also was supported financially by the organization's top corporate sponsors, Advance Auto Parts and Lowe's.

"This represents more than just walls and a roof," Francisco said. "It's a symbol of hope, healing and the unwavering support of organizations like Building Homes for Heroes. This is a community that cares about our veterans and their well-being."

The ceremony came a day before the 82nd anniversary of the surprise Japanese aerial attack on the U.S. Navy base in Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, bringing America officially into World War II.

Francisco's paternal grandfather, Joe Vandever Sr., was a Marine and one of the WWII Navajo Code Talkers, the secret program of Navajo recruits who developed unbreakable Allied messages on troop movements, orders and other vital battlefield communications over telephones and radios. The Navajo language was indecipherable to the Japanese and cited as a key factor in U.S. victories at Iwo Jima, Saipan and several other major battles.

Vandever died in 2020. Francisco's other late grandfather, Woody Francisco, also was a Purple Heart veteran who served in the Marines in Okinawa.

His mother, June Chavez, community services coordinator of the Navajo Nation's Smithlake Chapter, and his father, Jerryson Francisco, attended the ceremony. Jerryson, in the role of a shaman, conducted the traditional blessing of the house. One of Building Homes for Heroes' other home recipients in Arizona, retired Marine Sgt. Nathaniel Bitsui, who served with Francisco, also was present.

Pujol founded the organization after volunteering in search-and-rescue efforts after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Since 2006, the national nonprofit has modified and gifted more than 355 homes, with support from JPMorgan Chase, Advance Auto Parts, Lowe's, SAIC and other companies.

Building Homes for Heroes

Building Homes for Heroes builds and gifts mortgage-free homes, and completes home modifications, for veterans, emergency first responders and their families, and provides further services along their road to recovery to help them live a promising and fulfilling life ahead. The organization reached a 95.5% program rating in 2022, the 12th straight year earning a program rating of at least 93%. It also received a perfect 4-star rating from Charity Navigator for seven straight years, including a 100% in transparency and accountability. Learn more at buildinghomesforheroes.org/

JPMorgan Chase

JPMorgan Chase has supported veterans since before World War I. Established in 2011, JPMorgan Chase's Military & Veterans Affairs provides programs and initiatives that are aimed at positioning military members, veterans and their families for long-term success. Since 2011, the firm has hired more than 18,000 veterans; facilitated more than 900,000 veteran and military spouse hires through the Veteran Jobs Mission; awarded more than 1,080 mortgage-free homes to military families; and helped over 73,000 participants enroll in Onward to Opportunity, a free career training program of the D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families, which was co-founded and is supported by JPMorgan Chase and Syracuse University. Learn more at jpmorganchase.com/veterans.

Media contacts

David Weingrad

[email protected]

SOURCE Building Homes for Heroes
Hawaiian Bros' Multi-Unit Franchisee Opens Locations in Midland and Tyler

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hawaiian Bros is debuting two new island-inspired franchise locations in Tyler and Midland, Texas, opening December 4 (6915 S Broadway Ave), and December 11 (3320 W Loop 250 N), respectively. The locations are the newest to open under Stine Enterprises as two of the 75 Hawaiian Bros' restaurants developed under their recent franchisee agreement.

Since signing their franchise agreement with Hawaiian Bros in early 2023, Stine Enterprises has opened two ghost kitchens in Arizona, and will expand to their tenth market, with two new Hawaiian Bros locations in North Texas. These new restaurants are a part of the Stines agreement to open 75 Hawaiian Bros locations to bring island-inspired food to Arizona and North Texas.

"Texas has been an ideal state to expand the Hawaiian Bros brands," said Adam Stine, President and Owner of Stine Enterprises. "It's been a pleasure thus far to have franchised with Hawaiian Bros, starting in Tempe and Phoenix and now in Midland and Tyler. We're looking forward to what North Texas has to offer!"

Hawaiian Bros is known for its island-inspired plate lunch, which offers a variety of juicy chicken or pork glazed with sweet, savory or spicy sauces; macaroni salad, a bed of fluffy steamed white rice or vegetables; and for dessert, a smooth and tropical Dole Soft Serve. Never relying on freezers or microwaves, the simple menu is prepared with the highest quality, freshest ingredients - unlike any fast-casual restaurant in the area.

To learn more about Hawaiian Bros and its offerings, visit https://hawaiianbros.com/.

About Hawaiian Bros

At Hawaiian Bros, we're inspired every day to spread the Aloha Spirit. To show kindness and respect, and to treat everyone as 'ohana - like family, in everything we do. Founded on the principles of honor, inclusion and gratitude, we respect the dignity and self-worth of every team member and guest. We value our differences and celebrate our common ground. And we say, "thank you" often, emphasizing the positives in our lives every day. Hawaiian Bros owns and operates over 40 restaurants serving the Aloha spirit in eight states across America, and has expanded its franchise opportunities in 2023.

Hawaiian Bros has earned a variety of prestigious awards since their opening in 2018 including a number one spot on the Ingram's Corporate Report of the Top 100 fastest growing companies, and the number seven spot on QSR Magazine's 40/40 List of America's Hottest Startup Fast Casuals, plus many more here. For more information, visit www.hawaiianbros.com .

SOURCE Hawaiian Bros
NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Watchdog group StopAntisemitism released its annual Antisemitism on U.S. College & University Campuses Report today, which uses a report card-style grading system to assess 25 different colleges across the United States on their previous and current efforts to address campus antisemitism and protect their Jewish students.

Following the savage and barbaric Hamas attacks of October 7, StopAntisemitism updated this report to address schools' responses to antisemitic incidents after the massacre, highlighting specific incidents and re-grading some schools. The report was originally slated to be released on October 9, but due to the horrific violence in Israel, the organization had to wait.

StopAntisemitism initially created this report in response to Jewish parents and their children inquiring where it's safe for them to attend school. Since October 7 there has been an influx of such requests from concerned Jewish parents who feel anxious sending their children away during an especially vulnerable time.

This year's report classifies 25 schools into five categories: Ivy League (and adjacent), Liberal Arts, Private Universities, Public Universities-East and Public Universities-West. Five schools received an "F", while seven schools received an "A".

"Rising campus antisemitism has been supercharged by the recent Israel-Hamas conflict," said StopAntisemitism Executive Director, Liora Rez. "This Report Card will help guide Jewish parents in assessing where it's safe to send their children  a new and frightening consideration that would've been unthinkable just a few years ago. Armed with this information, it's on all of us to hold colleges accountable for recognizing, calling out, and protecting their students from antisemitism."

StopAntisemitism takes four major categories into account when formulating grades:

Protection : How does the school report antisemitic incidents? Is there a willingness to work with Jewish advocacy groups? What are the reactions from college administrators after an incident occurs?

: How does the school report antisemitic incidents? Is there a willingness to work with Jewish advocacy groups? What are the reactions from college administrators after an incident occurs? Allyship: Does the college speak out against antisemitism? Are Jews included in the school's DEI policies?

Does the college speak out against antisemitism? Are Jews included in the school's DEI policies? Identity: Do Jewish students feel safe at their school? Do Jewish students feel the need to hide their identity on campus? Do Jewish students feel like they are being held responsible for Israel's actions?

Do Jewish students feel safe at their school? Do Jewish students feel the need to hide their identity on campus? Do Jewish students feel like they are being held responsible for actions? Policy: Has the school adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's (IHRA) definition of antisemitism? Is there a Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) organization on campus? Have BDS resolutions been adopted?

StopAntisemitism assesses how each school has responded to antisemitic incidents by conducting two different surveys  one to each university's administration, of which seven completed this year, and one to their Jewish students, which was completed by more than 1,400 respondents. 79% of students responded "yes" when asked if they had experienced antisemitism on campus, and 72% said they feel unwelcome as a Jewish person in all spaces on campus. The survey was sent out before October 7, but the organization strongly feels that these percentages would increase dramatically had it sent out the survey following the attacks.

You can view the full report here.

Report Card Grades for 25 US Colleges At a Glance:

Ivy League

Dartmouth University  A

Massachusetts Institute of Technology ( MIT )  C

( )  C Stanford University  C

 C Brown University  F

 F Cornell University  F

Liberal Arts

Muhlenberg College  A

 A Bard College  C

 C Wellesley College  D

 D Pomona College  F

 F University of Vermont  F

Private Universities

Rice University  C

 C Duke University  D

 D Georgetown University  D

 D Vanderbilt University  D

 D University of Chicago  F

Public Universities-East

University of Alabama  A

 A University of Connecticut  A

 A Florida Atlantic University  B

 B University of Illinois Urbana Champaign  D

 D SUNY New Paltz  D

Public Universities-West

University of Colorado, Boulder  A

 A University of Texas, Austin  A

 A Arizona State University  A

 A University of California, San Diego  C

 C San Francisco State University  D

About StopAntisemitism

StopAntisemitism is a grassroots watchdog organization dedicated to holding antisemites accountable and creating consequences for their actions. Executive Director Liora Rez commands the digital landscape by exposing Jew-hatred through social media, blog posts, and other channels. StopAntisemitism made a critical impact in the fight against Jewish hate and bigotry in America through its fearless "name and shame" approach. For more information or to report antisemitic behavior, visit StopAntisemitism.org.

PRESS CONTACT:

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE StopAntisemitism
WELLESLEY, Mass., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sun Life U.S. has received the Equality 100 Award from Human Rights Campaign, given to companies achieving a 100% score on the Corporate Equality Index (CEI), a national benchmarking survey that assesses LGBTQ equality in the workplace. This is Sun Life's 15th consecutive 100% score on the CEI. Sun Life has continued to engage employees in fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace that encourages every employee to bring their authentic selves to work.

Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index, Equality 100 Award

"We are especially pleased to receive this score once again, as the criteria this year has expanded  as it should," said Diontha Fancher, director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Sun Life U.S. "Our work to continuously strengthen our inclusion commitments is an ongoing process, informed by valuable insights and engagement from our Inclusion Networks and community partners."

In support of best practices for transgender inclusion, a newer criteria for the CEI, Sun Life provides resources to support the optional sharing of gender pronouns by employees, including in email signatures, as part of videoconferencing identification, and internal content-sharing platforms.

"An inclusive and supportive culture is important in every business," said Tammi Wortham, senior vice president, Human Resources, Sun Life U.S. "An inclusive workplace ensures every employee can achieve their full potential and contribute positively to the business, their colleagues, and their families. We are proud to receive a top score once again from Human Rights Campaign."

Sun Life engages in many events and activities throughout the year on issues that impact the LGBTQ+ community and address equity and inclusion for all diverse groups. This year Sun Life introduced a LGBTQ+ Benefits Guide, highlighting examples of the ways Sun Life benefits support the needs of the LGBTQ+ community. Some benefits include:

Medical, dental and vision plans available to legal spouses, same-sex or different sex domestic partners and legal civil union partners.

Medical plans covering gender-affirming care.

A paid family and medical leave program covering "chosen family" to allow caregivers time off to care for those who are not direct relatives.

Sun Life has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, joining 13 employer briefs that helped lead to the defeat of DOMA (Defense of Marriage Act) in 2013 and state laws prohibiting same-sex marriage in 2015. In 2019 Sun Life joined other employers in signing onto an amicus brief for the Supreme Court cases determining whether LGBTQ+ employees are protected under the current U.S. civil rights law.

This year Sun Life U.S. was also named a Best Employer for Diversity by Forbes, and for the past two years was named a Girls Club Top 25 Female Friendly Company and received the Great Places to Work certification. Sun Life's other U.S. workplace recognitions include six consecutive years on the Boston Globe Top Places to Work list, and three consecutive years on both the Top Workplaces USA list and the Hartford Courant's Top Places to Work list. Sun Life U.S. is also listed on the Bloomberg Gender Equality Index.

Globally, Sun Life was named one of the World's Best Companies for Women by Forbes in 2023.

For more information on Sun Life's Inclusion Networks and activities around Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, visit https://www.sunlife.com/us/en/about/diversity-equity-and-inclusion/.

About Sun Life

Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing asset management, wealth, insurance and health solutions to individual and institutional Clients. Sun Life has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of September 30, 2023, Sun Life had total assets under management of C$1.34 trillion. For more information, please visit www.sunlife.com.

Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.

Sun Life U.S. is one of the largest providers of employee and government benefits, helping more than 50 million Americans access the healthcare and coverage they need. Through employers, industry partners and government programs, Sun Life U.S. offers a portfolio of benefits and services, including dental, vision, disability, absence management, life, supplemental health, medical stop-loss insurance, and healthcare navigation. Sun Life employs nearly 8,300 people in the U.S., including associates in our partner dental practices and affiliated companies in asset management. Group insurance policies are issued by Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (Wellesley Hills, Mass.), except in New York, where policies are issued by Sun Life and Health Insurance Company (U.S.) (Lansing, Mich.). For more information visit our website and newsroom.

Media contacts

Devon Fernald

Sun Life U.S.

[email protected]

781-800-3609

Anjie Coplin

Sun Life U.S.

[email protected]

214-549-1553

Connect with Sun Life U.S.

https://www.facebook.com/SLFUnitedStates

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sun-life-financial

https://twitter.com/SunLifeUS

SOURCE Sun Life U.S.
National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association Releases Report Detailing Americans' Changing Approach Toward Food

HARRISBURG, Pa., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Since its peak in 2020 and 2021, cooking at home has decreased slightly, but 64% of Americans are continuing to do so to save money and control their budget. After gaining confidence in the kitchen during lockdown, Americans are looking for inspiration to DIY healthier-for-them meals at home  preferably with ingredients from deals in the frozen and refrigerated food aisles. They are also relying more on online grocery shopping and social media for inspiration on how to use those ingredients.

Americans prioritize "healthier-for-me" options as they gain control over what ingredients go into their meals. Post this 2023 REPORT: Shifting Consumer Eating and Grocery Shopping Habits

To view the multimedia assets and the full report, visit: https://interactive.4media-group.com/nfra-eat-at-home-report-2023

The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA), a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry, released these findings as part of its latest "Eating at Home" industry report. The report is the culmination of a large-scale research study conducted to better understand Americans' changing grocery-shopping habits.

To gather data, researchers surveyed more than 12,000 U.S. consumers; and to gain in-depth, everyday insights, twenty consumers from across the U.S. welcomed researchers into their homes and to their local grocery stores. Additionally, a large-scale analysis of news and social media content helped researchers identify and understand consumer perspectives surrounding frozen and refrigerated foods over the past 18 months up to mid-August of 2023.

"This is the largest research undertaking from the NFRA on behalf of the frozen and refrigerated food industry, with the results yielding directional insights for food manufacturers on consumer trends," said NFRA President and CEO Jeff Rumachik.

While the entire report is available to read  including directional insights for those in the industry  some trends from the report are available now for the public.

Health-ier Choices

Americans are prioritizing "healthier-for-me" options, especially as they gain control over what ingredients go into their meals.

Taste or flavor (66%), quality of the groceries (65%) and healthiness (49%) determine what consumers are putting in their carts.

Nearly 3 in 5 consumers (59%) say they began cooking at home using precut frozen fruits and vegetables to save on prep time; using frozen main dishes that are easier to prepare, while making their own side dishes; or using frozen fruit in recipes for smoothies or other treats sometime within the past three years.

Convenient and Cost-Effective Options

Convenience doesn't mean people are just putting frozen dinners in the oven. They're making some dishes from scratch while using frozen foods and dairy aisle finds to make their home-cooked meals complete. As shoppers continue to explore new tastes and recipes, they're also taking notice of increased variety within the frozen and dairy aisles  as well as hunting for deals to help their budget.

93% of consumers indicate they buy milk or are always looking out for offers on milk when shopping in the dairy aisle. In that same group, more than two-thirds (68%) are always on the lookout for milk alternatives/flavored milk or indicate they purchase milk alternatives/flavored milk occasionally or frequently when shopping in the dairy aisle.

are always looking out for offers on milk when shopping in the dairy aisle. In that same group, more than two-thirds (68%) are always on the lookout for milk alternatives/flavored milk or indicate they purchase milk alternatives/flavored milk occasionally or frequently when shopping in the dairy aisle. 45% of consumers rely on air fryers and 43% use slow cookers to cook and prepare food. As of September 2023 , there were 9.7 billion views of videos tagged with #airfryer (Media analysis, Atomik Research 2023).

Technology's Growing Role in the Food We Eat

Technology and social media are having a major influence in shifting how and what Americans eat. Consumers are adopting online grocery shopping and looking to social media for cooking inspiration to make eating at home more convenient or to fill in the gaps when they don't have the skillset for making a recipe.

More than half (54%) of consumers are learning about food and cooking through TikTok and YouTube.

A third of consumers (33%) prefer to shop for groceries online because automated recommended purchases / 'programmatic reminders' help ensure that they never forget the ingredients they need for recipes.

For more information about the research and its methodology, to read the full report, or to contact NFRA, visit nfraweb.com/research.

About National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA)

NFRA is a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. NFRA sponsors national promotions Rediscover Dairy and Frozen, March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month and June/July Ice Cream & Novelties; and provides consumer information such as food safety guidelines, meal preparation tips, recipes and sweepstakes opportunities through its Easy Home Meals consumer website and social media properties.

SOURCE National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association
STOCKHOLM, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Systecon Group has embarked on a global growth trajectory and today holds a position as the leading global provider of Analytical Life Cycle Management products, supporting our customers in their quest to provide and ensure cost-effective capabilities.

To further stimulate the growth and the global footprint, Systecon today announces upcoming changes to the Management team and changes made to the Board of Directors.

New Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Systecon's Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Dan Andersson as the new Chief Executive Officer. Dan Andersson has broad experience from and a proven track record in scaling global software companies such as Outpost24 and Enea Software. With Dan on board, we are taking a significant step forward in reinforcing our global leadership position. Dan will assume the role as CEO effective January 1st, 2024.

Dan Andersson, Incoming CEO, Systecon: "I am thrilled to step into the role of CEO at Systecon and guide our dedicated global team. Together with my talented colleagues, we have a great opportunity to bring Systecon's solutions to new markets and to help even more organisations to get the right decision support for cost-effective life cycle management. I firmly believe that we have an outstanding offering that brings tremendous value to all users and vendors of complex technical systems."

Tomas Eriksson, Outgoing CEO and Member of the Board of Directors, Systecon Group: "After seven years dedicated to developing Systecon into a global leader in analytical LCM, I am passing the reins to Dan Andersson. I do this with immense pride and satisfaction in what we, the Systecon team, have accomplished over these years. In handing over the leadership to Dan, I am confident that we have chosen a leader well-equipped to steer our talented and dedicated global team to new heights. I am personally looking forward to working closely with Dan from my position on the board as we embark on this thrilling next chapter in Systecon's journey."

Patrik Alfredsson, Chairman of the Board, Systecon Group: "I am proud to announce the appointment of our new Chief Executive Officer, Dan Andersson. The extensive search has been performed in alignment with Systecon's ambitious growth strategy. This move signifies a strategic evolution in Systecon's ongoing expansion and development. With Dan joining, we greatly enhance our expertise, leveraging his extensive background in scaling global software enterprises across strategic, operational, and management dimensions."

New Member of the Board

Tomas Eriksson will hand over his position as CEO of Systecon and has been appointed as a member of the Board of Directors at Systecon.

About Systecon

For over 50 years Systecon has developed methods and software that allow organizations across the globe in different industries, from defense to renewables to transport, to make informed, smarter decisions in life cycle management. We have the methodology, tools, and experience to understand and analyze the factors that affect the performance and costs of technical systems  e.g., aircraft, trains, or wind turbines  and to optimize operations, system design, and maintenance solutions based on our customers' conditions and objectives. Today Systecon is a thought leader in analytical LCM and some of the world's most complex technology projects rely on our tools and expertise.

For more information, please visit www.systecongroup.com.

Media contact:

Tomas Eriksson

Outgoing CEO and Member of the Board of Directors

Systecon Group

Phone: +46 (8) 459 0750

E-mail: [email protected]

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/2556/3887728/2472489.pdf Press release (PDF) https://news.cision.com/systecon-ab/i/dan-andersson-new-ceo-systecon,c3245740 Dan Andersson New CEO Systecon https://news.cision.com/systecon-ab/i/tomas-eriksson-existing-ceo-systecon,c3245739 Tomas Eriksson Existing CEO Systecon https://news.cision.com/systecon-ab/i/patrik-alfredsson-systecon,c3245741 Patrik Alfredsson Systecon

SOURCE Systecon AB
TAIPEI, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Taiwan is renowned not only for its convenience and breathtaking landscapes but also as an irresistible choice for digital talents seeking not just career opportunities but also an exquisite quality of life. According to the annual survey by "InterNations" website, Taiwan ranks among the top locations for expatriates to live in.

Taiwan: Embracing Global Digital Professionals

Ministry of Digital Affairs Image Credits: Ministry of Digital Affairs

"We have always been actively assisting international talents in obtaining the Taiwan Gold Card to work or start businesses in Taiwan," said Betty Hu, the Deputy Director General of Administration for Digital Industries, Taiwan Ministry of Digital Affairs (moda). "In Taiwan, professionals in digital industries can immerse themselves in an established high-tech industry to accelerate their career development; and they can also stimulate local tech companies and communities , encouraging them to build connections with global professionals regularly."

In 2022, Taiwan established the Ministry of Digital Affairs and invited world-renowned tech expert Audrey Tang as Minister to directly participate in government decision-making. To recruit international digital talents and accelerate the progress of domestic, industrial, and social digital transformation, the moda then formulated and promulgated the Gold Card in Digital field on May 2023.

Taiwan Employment Gold Card: Warm welcome to global professionals

Taiwan Gold Card integrates four important services: a more flexible work permit, a residence visa valid for up to three years, eligibility for national health insurance, and income tax reduction. Holders of the Taiwan Employment Gold Card can enter and exit Taiwan at will and work remotely from any city around the world, offering greater flexibility.

The Taiwan Gold Card for the Digital Field uses a diverse set of evaluation criteria, focusing on an individual's achievements and qualifications in the digital field, such as academics, projects, certifications, or patents. This shift enables a more comprehensive assessment and offers applicants greater flexibility, allowing them to work for a company or start their own business upon arrival in Taiwan.

Taiwan: Ideal for Digital Industry Development

"Taiwan is one of the best locations for cybersecurity teams to demonstrate their capabilities,"said Betty Hu. "Taiwan's openness and democracy create a highly welcoming environment for digital professionals."

"Not just in cybersecurity and blockchain; Taiwan also has a high demand for people working in FIDO, autonomous driving and quantum computing." Betty Hu stated. Both enterprises (like Google, Microsoft, AWS, IBM and Meta) and startups (like Appier and Gogolook) have been able to find successful business models in Taiwan.

Balancing Work and Life: Achieving Harmony in Taiwan

Taiwan is more than just a friendly society but also ranks among the top nations globally in terms of quality of life, healthcare accessibility, freedom of speech, marriage equality, and government efficiency.

And that has attracted numerous open-source communities and global tech leaders, such as Steve Chen, co-founder of YouTube, and Vitalik Buterin, founder of Ethereum, to become Taiwan Employment Gold Card holders.

Media Contact:

Anita Chen

[email protected]

SOURCE Administration for Digital Industries, moda
DUBAI, UAE, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Talent & Green Summit was held yesterday at the University of Dubai during the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 28). The Summit brought together 36 participants in Huawei's Seeds for the Future 2.0 talent program from 22 countries. Scholars from international organizations, professors from the University of Dubai, and experts from Huawei also attended the event to explore why digital skills are essential in addressing sustainable development challenges related to sustainable development.

The Summit attracted a wide range of participants, including academics, students, and Huawei experts.

Dr. Eesa Mohammed Al Al Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai, also addressed the audience. "Since it was founded, the University of Dubai has been committed to providing students with high-quality and international education, as well as training in technical and practical skills," he said. "We encourage students to pursue innovation and creativity to get fully prepared for future jobs and challenges. We are also proud to work with Huawei to cultivate ICT talent, improve their awareness of sustainable development, and help them fulfill the responsibility they have to shape a greener future."

Speaking at the Summit, Vicky Zhang, Vice President of Huawei's Corporate Communications Dept, said: "Addressing climate change should be one of our top priorities. The UN Climate Change Conference provides a great platform that brings together the world's top minds to explore ideas and actions that make sense in the real world. Younger generations will be the ones to achieve sustainable development in the future. Huawei will continue providing necessary digital literacy training for young talent to help them leash their creativity and passion. By leveraging the huge potential of ICT, they can solve real-world problems and overcome any challenges that they may face."

At the event, Dr. Phoebe Koundouri, Professor at the Athens University of Economics and Business, Professor at the Technical University of Denmark, President of the European Association of Environmental and Resource Economists, Chair of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Global Climate Hub, and CoChair of SDSN Europe, shared her views from the Twin Skills for the Twin Transition: Defining Green Digital Skills and Jobs white paper that she recently published with Huawei. She said: "Developing green and digital skills can effectively promote climate neutrality and employment recovery. Green skills focus on energy and the environment, while digital skills are closely related to ICT. Together, green and digital skills will facilitate the transition to sustainable economic development, and help us address more global environmental and climate challenges."

About Huawei

Founded in 1987, Huawei is a leading global provider of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure and smart devices. We have more than 207,000 employees, and we operate in more than 170 countries and regions, serving more than three billion people around the world.

Our Vision and mission is to bring digital to every person, home and organization for a fully connected, intelligent world. To this end, we will drive ubiquitous connectivity and promote equal access to networks; bring cloud and artificial intelligence to all four corners of the earth to provide superior computing power where you need it, when you need it; build digital platforms to help all industries and organizations become more agile, efficient, and dynamic; redefine user experience with AI, making it more personalized for people in all aspects of their life, whether they're at home, in the office, or on the go.

For more information, please visit Huawei online at:

www.huawei.com

https://e.huawei.com/ae/

Or follow us on:

http://www.linkedin.com/company/Huawei

https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/huawei-enterprise

http://www.twitter.com/Huawei

http://www.facebook.com/Huawei

http://www.youtube.com/Huawei

Middle East:

https://www.facebook.com/HuaweiTechME

https://twitter.com/Huawei_ME

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2294248/Huawei.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2293153/4439448/Huawei_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Huawei
Next-Generation Satellite Network is Key for Resilient, Easy to Deploy Emergency Connectivity

Unique global constellation using satellite-to-satellite laser links

Ultra-secure and extremely low latency network

Combining the speed of fiber with the reach of satellite

MUNICH and DENVER, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tekniam, a US based company providing emergency connectivity for disaster response and recovery, is partnering with Rivada Space Networks to use The OuterNET to provide a resilient and easy to deploy network that saves lives and livelihoods when normal communications fail.

Tekniam CEO Andrew Heaton and Rivada Space Networks CEO Declan Ganley Rivada's OuterNET will offer high-speed, low-latency with full global coverage.

Natural and man-made disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, fires or conflict can wipe out telecommunications. Loss of power can severely impact communications infrastructure including microwave towers, fiber optic networks and routers that can then take days, weeks or months to rebuild. And first responders like fire, police, paramedics and aid organizations need reliable communication capabilities once they are in the field during fast-changing conditions. Even when not physically damaged by the disaster itself, existing communication channels are frequently overwhelmed by users.

And when a disaster strikes, time matters. Tekniam's Remote Universal Communication System (RUCS) is a compact, easily transportable and fast to deploy emergency wireless network solution designed to provide essential connectivity for rapid and secure communications so that relief personnel can remain connected, and businesses can get back up and running before Internet is even restored.

Rivada's global low-latency point-to-point connectivity network of 600 low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, the "OuterNET," is a unique next-generation architecture combing inter-satellite laser links with advanced onboard processing that provide unique routing and switching capabilities to create an optical mesh network in space. This approach to "orbital networking," in which data stays in space from origin to destination, creates an ultra-secure satellite network with pole-to-pole coverage, offering end-to-end latencies much lower than terrestrial fiber over similar long distances. And by routing traffic on a physically separated network, it provides a layer of defense for any organization that needs to securely share data between widely distributed sites.

Tekniam will harness the OuterNET where Rivada's secure, high speed and reliable optical satellite network will be available anywhere on earth, ensuring emergency communications can be deployed and operational in minutes. Tekniam's RUCS compact terminal establishes a hot-spot and all that is required is a clear line of sight to the satellite and the ability to precisely direct the dish. Compact equipment can be hand carried to locations and solar powered for maximum flexibility and efficiency.

Rivada's OuterNET is also particularly well suited for the low latency and secure connectivity required to support disaster recovery. When networks go down so do credit card payments, business-to customer communications, access to cloud data and more until connections are restored. By using Rivada's OuterNET, Tekniam can provide an emergency network for businesses to get back on their feet and fully function to prevent major business interruptions.

Tekniam CEO, Andrew Heaton said: "Tekniam's RUCS is a cutting-edge last mile solution for emergency disaster response, military, and business recovery, and we are very excited to leverage Rivada's next-generation satellite connectivity to take our service to a whole new level. The OuterNET is a fully interconnected orbital network which effectively serves as our own private network in space, capable of routing traffic at gigabit speeds from one satellite to another with no need for a gateway on earth. For our solutions, that really matters not just for speed and security but for coverage too".

Declan Ganley, CEO, Rivada Space Networks, said: "We are delighted to be supporting Tekniam's new remote universal communication system (RUCS). Rivada Networks has previously provided award-winning emergency communication services in the US to customers including the National Guard and leading police forces". Ganley added: "Now with a completely new type of LEO constellation, The OuterNET allows satellites to go beyond their traditional role of 'gap-filler and our fully inter-connected space network, independent of terrestrial infrastructure, is rapidly becoming the network of choice for resilient and secure communications."

Rivada's OuterNET will solve essential connectivity and networking challenges and open up new opportunities for business communications globally. The first satellite launch is set for 2025, with global service starting in 2026.

About Rivada Space Networks

Rivada Space Networks GmbH is deploying the first true "OuterNET": a global low latency point-to-point connectivity network of LEO satellites. By connecting its satellites with lasers, Rivada Space Networks will provide resellers and B2B customers with the ability to securely connect any two points on the globe with low latency and high bandwidth. The constellations, comprising 600 low-earth-orbit communications satellites, will represent a fundamental change in the availability of secure, global, end-to-end enterprise-grade connectivity for Telecom, Enterprise, Maritime, Energy and Government Services markets. Rivada Space Networks is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rivada Networks, Inc. www.rivadaspace.com

Follow Rivada Space Networks on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rivada-space/

Twitter: @rivadaspace

Media Contacts

Melanie Dickie, SVP Marketing & Communication

Rivada Space Networks GmbH

Tel: +31 6 14 22 97 62

Email: [email protected]m

Brian Carney, SVP Corporate Communications

Rivada Networks, Inc

Tel: +1 (207) 256-0386

Email: [email protected]

About Tekniam

Tekniam was founded in 2021 to bring connectivity to the most remote locations in the world. Born out of a partnership with GBA, an engineering, architectural, construction, and technology firm, Tekniam provides advanced portable, scalable, and secure telecommunications solutions for First Responders, NGOs, Governments, and more. Tekniam is headquartered in Denver, CO and has domestic offices in Lenexa, KS and Charlotte, NC.

To learn more about our emergency internet solutions, visit us at:

Website: www.Tekniam.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/tekniam-llc

Instagram: @Tekniam

Contact Tekniam

Phone: (877) TEKNIAM

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Rivada Space Networks
Ukraine expects in December a positive decision by the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the second review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangement and the third disbursement of at least $900 million, Governor of the National Bank of Ukraine Andriy Pyshnyy has said.

"We received conclusions at the (IMF) staff level. The National Bank signed an updated memorandum (of economic and financial policies), as did the government. Now, we are awaiting the decision of the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund," he said at the annual corporate directors forum of the Corporate Governance Professional Association in Kyiv on Wednesday.

Pyshnyy said that a positive decision by the IMF Executive Board will mean not only the third disbursement of $900 million, but also confirmation of the support of Ukraine's international partners, since the total framework of the EFF arrangement of $15.6 billion is $115 billion under the baseline scenario and $140 billion under the adverse scenario.

According to him, the National Bank still expects to receive $38 billion in external financial assistance in 2024.

At the same time, the NBU governor said that the risk of interruption of such support remains a key risk, especially since the bad news is that coalition partners will find themselves in a difficult stage of political turbulence.

The calendar of meetings of the IMF Executive Board, currently scheduled until December 15 inclusive, does not yet include the issue of Ukraine.
HOUSTON, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas Children's Hospital is thrilled to announce that Ovintiv Inc., a leading North American exploration and production company, has pledged 4.8 million to fund its new behavioral health Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) at Texas Children's Hospital The Woodlands.

"We are so incredibly grateful for Ovintiv Inc.'s generosity," said Dr. Kirti Saxena, Chief of Psychiatry at Texas Children's Hospital and Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine. "This IOP is desperately needed in the Woodlands, and we are committed to creating it because we believe that the behavioral and developmental health of children, adolescents and teens is just as important as their physical well-being. Ovintiv's transformational gift will make a life-changing difference for so many patients and their families."

Texas Children's Receives 4.8 Million Dollar Transformational Corporate Gift to Fund Behavioral Health Initiative Post this

"Our partnership with Texas Children's Hospital is a natural fit," said Brendan McCracken, President & CEO of Ovintiv. "Our strategic investment is part of a larger $10MM community initiative focused on supporting children's hospitals where we live and work. We seek partners and programs that embody our purpose and are aligned with our values and priorities. As a leading energy producer, we have the privilege of supporting the daily lifesaving work of our local children's hospitals. We're proud of the role our energy products play in making modern life possible."

Ovintiv's generous pledge makes them the first company member of the Council for Hope, Texas Children's new Corporate Giving Society, whose fundraising priorities include supporting Texas Children's behavioral health initiatives.

In 2022, Texas Children's formed a dedicated Behavioral Health Task Force to implement new and expanded services for patients in need of specialized care. The goal was to meet patients where they are and to help address behavioral health issues as early as possible at each stage of the diagnosis and treatment continuum  before they escalate to the point where inpatient hospitalization is required.

The IOP, a direct outgrowth of these efforts, will close the gap between inpatient and outpatient behavioral health services. When patients and families seek care at local hospitals for behavioral and developmental health concerns, they typically receive crisis intervention upon entry to the hospital. Significant demand, however, can result in delays for the services they need, especially after they are discharged. The IOP will solve this problem by providing intermediary care for patients who cannot perform successfully in their current settings but do not need inpatient psychiatric hospitalization. It will support these patients through skill-based intensive therapy sessions that teach strategies to reduce symptoms and improve functioning within a flexible structure that allows patients to live at home and continue school and family activities.

Designed to accommodate patients discharged from Texas Children's Emergency Centers and from inpatient units  and to provide step-down care to outpatient services for patients who have other medical issues plus behavioral health issues  the IOP will provide an array of services customized to meet each patient's and family's specific needs. These include individual, group and family therapy, art and music therapy programs and yoga and recreational therapy. Officially slated to open in early 2024, the IOP will treat patients for up to four to five hours a day.

About Texas Children's Hospital

Texas Children's, a nonprofit health care organization, is committed to creating a healthier future for children and women throughout the global community by leading in patient care, education and research. Consistently ranked as the best children's hospital in Texas and among the top in the nation, Texas Children's has garnered widespread recognition for its expertise and breakthroughs in pediatric and women's health. The system includes the Texas Children's Duncan NRI; the Feigin Tower for pediatric research; Texas Children's Pavilion for Women, a comprehensive obstetrics/gynecology facility focusing on high-risk births; Texas Children's Hospital West Campus, a community hospital in suburban West Houston; and Texas Children's Hospital The Woodlands, the first hospital devoted to children's care for communities north of Houston. The organization also created Texas Children's Health Plan, the nation's first HMO for children; Texas Children's Pediatrics, the largest pediatric primary care network in the country; Texas Children's Urgent Care clinics that specialize in after-hours care tailored specifically for children; and a global health program that s channeling care to children and women all over the world. Texas Children's Hospital is affiliated with Baylor College of Medicine. For more information, visit www.texaschildrens.org.

About Ovintiv

As one of the largest producers of oil and natural gas in North America, Ovintiv stands united by a commitment to drive progress and improve lives with respect and responsibility, not just in the communities where we operate, but for everyone. Our products provide energy, which in turn supports better education, healthcare and equality opportunities. For more information on Ovintiv, please visit our website at www.ovintiv.com.

Media Contact :

Natasha Barrett, Director, Media & Public Relations

832-991-5254 | [email protected]

SOURCE Texas Children's Hospital
Elizabeth brings over 20 years of experience in the public and non-profit sectors to the TFG Grants team.

AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The TFG Grants Team is pleased to welcome Elizabeth (Liz) Vela as a Grants Analyst. Liz has over two decades of experience working in the public and nonprofit sectors. She has skills in key areas like health and human services. As a Grants Analyst she provides important client services, including client needs assessments, grant writing, research, and policy analysis.

"Liz is an excellent addition our team," said Kristi More, Managing Partner of Strategic Development and Grants. "Her background working directly with communities and across multiple levels of government gives her insight into our clients' needs and priorities and strengthens the TFG Grants team's ability to effectively secure resources for priority projects."

"I'm thrilled to join TFG and contribute to the Grants Team's impressive track record securing funds that have a direct impact on communities throughout the country," said Liz.

Prior to joining TFG, Liz worked in nonprofit administration with the San Francisco Foundation Center and community-based groups. She also worked for the Travis County, Texas Health and Human Services Department and the State of Texas focusing on health and human services policy research and federal funding compliance and reporting. For the last several years, she has managed large federal funding proposals, needs assessments, and philanthropic grant writing and reporting for community-based organizations and Federally Qualified Health Centers. Liz received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Boston University and a Master's degree in Public Affairs at The Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at University of Texas, Austin with a focus on health and social policy.

For more information about TFG, please visit our website at www.thefergusongroup.com.

Contact: Alexandra Yiannoutsos

TFG

1901 Connecticut Ave. NW Suite 700

Washington, D.C. 20006

Phone: (202) 717-5755

ayiannoutsos@tfgnet.com

SOURCE The Ferguson Group, LLC
NANJING, China, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) was opened in Dubai on November 30th and will run until December 12th. This conference marks a significant step forward in global climate governance. During the event, Jiangsu, an eastern province in China, showcased its efforts toward green and low-carbon transformation through exhibitions, presentations, specialized sessions, and various activities. These initiatives received extensive attention from attendees and the local media in the United Arab Emirates.

An article titled "Jiangsu Province Puts Green Initiatives and Environmental Protection in Focus amid Global Climate Change Efforts" was published in "The National", a newspaper from the United Arab Emirates, on December 2nd. The article was published in anticipation of COP28, an international conference on climate change. On December 3rd, the COP28 Jiangsu-themed exhibition opened at Expo City Dubai, showcasing the achievements of Jiangsu Province in combating climate change. The exhibition displayed outstanding cases of green and low-carbon development practices from cities such as Nanjing, Suzhou, Nantong, Yancheng, and Yangzhou. On December 4th, a special event titled "Jiangsu's Green and Low-Carbon Development Practices" was held within the Chinese section of Dubai Expo City. The event aimed to exhibit and share the actions and effectiveness of various levels of government and sectors of society in Jiangsu in response to climate change.

Lu Weidong, Secretary of the Leading Party Members' Group in the Department of Ecology and Environment of Jiangsu Province, has announced that the province is actively promoting a comprehensive green transformation in both economic and social development. The aim is to accelerate the construction of a modern society where humans can coexist harmoniously with nature. This approach has already yielded valuable results in terms of high-quality development and high-level protection. The province's outstanding performance is particularly evident in the "Three Increases and One Decrease" initiative, which has led to a clear improvement in the high-quality development of the region.

Jiangsu is a province worth observing due to its high-level protection that drives high-quality development. Despite covering only 1.1% of the country's land area, it supports 6% of the population and generates over 10% of the total economic output. However, as a province with a significant economy and population but limited land and resources, Jiangsu faces considerable tension. Nevertheless, through green transformation, this tension has been converted into survivability, competitiveness, development capacity, and sustainability.

Jiangsu has been actively promoting the development of local iconic industries such as new energy, energy storage, smart grids, green materials, and new energy vehicles in recent years. This has resulted in the creation of a trillion-level low-carbon new economic volume, making green and low-carbon initiatives a new growth point in the national economy. By the end of 2022, the province had achieved a 64.3% protection rate for natural wetlands, continuously strengthening water security and showcasing an increasingly prominent green foundation. The concept of "Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets" is gradually becoming a reality where environmental conservation translates into economic wealth.

SOURCE The Department of Ecology and Environment of Jiangsu Province
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Over 200 reparations activists from 26 states, working on local and national reparations initiatives, gathered in Evanston, Illinois, for the 3rd Annual National Symposium for State and Local Reparations (held November 30 to December 2, 2023). The event was convened by First Repair, founded by Robin Rue Simmons. Simmons is the former 5th Ward Alderman for the City of Evanston, IL, where she led, in collaboration with others, the passage of the nation's first municipally-funded reparations legislation for Black residents.

Local and State Reparations: Repairing Black Communities National Town Hall hosted in Evanston, IL

Reparations activists from Chicago, IL; Evanston, IL; Detroit, MI; Atlanta, GA; Decatur, GA; Seattle, WA; Asheville, NC; San Francisco, CA; New York, NY; Denver, CO; Boston, MA; Tulsa, OK; Washington, DC; Greenbelt, Baltimore, and Waldorf MD, and other municipalities were in attendance at the convening.

During the symposium, Jessica Ann Mitchell Aiwuyor, Founder and Executive Director of the National Black Cultural Information Trust, Inc. , led the session titled "Communicating Reparations" that issued warnings and guidance for communications messaging and strategies needed to protect and move the reparations movement forward. The Communicating Reparations session included an overview and toolkit for creating detailed strategic communications plans to assist local reparations initiatives nationwide. The session also featured an analysis of the current reparations media landscape, reparative justice narratives, information on correcting misinformation about local reparations initiatives, and countering anti-reparations narratives.

"It's an exciting and historical time for the reparations movement in America. Our ancestors worked for centuries to get us to this moment. I'm happy that our communications work has helped assist with moving reparatory justice forward," said Jessica Ann Mitchell Aiwuyor, founder of the National Black Cultural Information Trust, Inc.

Aiwuyor was also a featured panelist at the "Local and State Reparations: Repairing Black Communities" National Town Hall Meeting presented by FirstRepair and The National African American Reparations Commission (NAARC) held at historic Second Baptist Church in Evanston, IL. During the panel discussion, she emphasized the necessity of connecting all three eras of harm when discussing reparatory justice in America, including the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and U.S. Chattel Slavery, Jim Crow, and modern-day systemic racism.

The National Black Cultural Information Trust, Inc. shares cultural resources, tools, and information that uplift the collective freedom of Black communities. Contact [email protected] for additional information.

SOURCE National Black Cultural Information Trust
COLLEGE PARK, Md., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- With rapid technological changes and growing financial and management challenges in today's healthcare industry, physicians and hospital executives will increasingly require business, entrepreneurial management and analytical skills to navigate the new landscape of medicine and patient care.

To meet this need among aspiring physicians and healthcare leaders who want an accelerated schedule, the University of Maryland's School of Medicine (UMSOM) and Robert H. Smith School of Business have created the new MD/FlexMBA Dual Degree program. It will enable a joint medical and business degree in five years. Coursework for the Stem Designated Part-Time FlexMBA caters to the busy schedules of healthcare professionals and medical students by offering hybrid learning that includes online and on-campus options.

"We are seeing an unprecedented revolution in healthcare that is being driven by biomedical innovation, the digitization of medical records and advances in artificial intelligence," says UMSOM Dean Mark T. Gladwin, MD. "It has never been more critical for those in medicine to understand management, finance and quantitative analysis in order to succeed in practice and provide the best patient care, now and in the future. With the MD/FlexMBA we can provide ideal preparation for this, and with a fast-track schedule of completion."

An MBA from the Robert H. Smith School of Business provides future physicians with the knowledge and skills needed to manage complex administrative systems, and to oversee core business fundamentals like accounting, finance, and operations management. It also helps the next generation of healthcare leaders successfully navigate innovations around medical technology and information systems, while driving the improvement of patient care.

"In today's environment, excellent patient outcomes also depend on the financial well-being of both patients and providers," says Smith School Dean Prabhudev Konana. "Physicians with business acumen are better equipped to create innovative solutions for the benefit of their patients."

The MD/FlexMBA is designed to be completed in five years, with the MD curriculum spread over four. Fifty-four credits of MBA coursework are required, with 12 elective credits taken as part of the MD degree counting toward the MBA. For the most part, the MBA courses will be taken in person during the day at College Park or in the evenings at Smith's Baltimore campus. Some courses can be taken virtually in the evening.

Dean Gladwin says, "With new advances in molecular medicine, we are prioritizing support for entrepreneurial activity that allows our physician-scientists to take these new discoveries to the marketplace." He adds, "We look forward to collaborating with the Smith School and Dean Konana in preparing our faculty and providing scholarships to preeminent students who otherwise would not have been able to pursue this degree."

Three outstanding students admitted to the program will each receive the Deans' MD/MBA Scholarship award of $32,000. In addition, the Smith School will offer a limited number of merit-based awards ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 to additional exceptional students in the program.

Smith and the School of Medicine are also teaming up to offer the Deans' Physician Business-Leaders Scholar Award to outstanding SOM faculty who are ready to pursue an MBA. Up to three faculty members selected by an SOM Dean's review committee will receive $31,000. The FlexMBA can be earned in as little as 24 months.

Dean Konana says, "The Smith School is honored to embark on this journey with Dean Gladwin and the School of Medicine toward creating the physician-business leaders of the future."

These interdisciplinary efforts are in line with the Smith School's guiding principle, "Everybody's Business," which is based on the idea that knowledge of business principles and practice makes all University of Maryland students more productive and effective. It also reflects the tenets of UMSOM's Renaissance Curriculum, which aims to prepare future physicians who are clinically excellent and possess humanism, professionalism, scholarship, leadership, critical thinking, and attention to social justice and diversity.

Read more about the graduate and undergraduate programs at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business.

Read more about the Renaissance Curriculum at UMSOM.

About the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business

Located eight miles from Washington, D.C., 35 miles from Baltimore, and situated inside the Capital Beltway, the Robert H. Smith School of Business is a recognized leader in management education and research. One of 12 colleges and schools at the University of Maryland in College Park, the Smith School is plugged into the business, government, nonprofit and professional networks of the Baltimore-Washington, D.C., metroplex. We offer undergraduate, online and on-campus business master's, full-time, part-time, online and executive MBA, PhD and DBA degree programs, graduate certificates, and non-degree and executive education programs. Visit rhsmith.umd.edu.

About the University of Maryland School of Medicine

Now in its third century, the University of Maryland School of Medicine was chartered in 1807 as the first public medical school in the United States. It continues today as one of the fastest growing, top-tier biomedical research enterprises in the world -- with 46 academic departments, centers, institutes, and programs, and a faculty of more than 3,000 physicians, scientists, and allied health professionals, including members of the National Academy of Medicine and the National Academy of Sciences, and a distinguished two-time winner of the Albert E. Lasker Award in Medical Research. Visit medschool.umaryland.edu.

Contact: Veronica Robinson, [email protected]

SOURCE University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business
MIAMI, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Life insurance policies are often crucial for providing financial security to loved ones, but claimants often encounter challenges. The Law Offices of Jason Turchin's life insurance claims team have handled hundreds of life insurance claim disputes, and highlights its top five issues faced during the claims process:

Policy Disputes: Misunderstandings regarding policy terms can lead to disputes. These may arise from ambiguities in the policy or conflicts between multiple claimants, especially in cases of divorce or recent beneficiary changes. Often, when multiple people make a claim to the same policy, the life insurance company may file an interpleader lawsuit against all claimants.



Claim Delays : Administrative errors or incomplete documentation can significantly delay the processing of claims. Ensuring accurate and complete submission of required forms and documents is essential.



Claim Denials : Insurers may deny claims if they believe the circumstances of the policyholder's death do not align with the policy's terms. For instance, if the death occurs due to an excluded cause, the company may refuse to pay the benefit. They could also deny a claim based on a material misrepresentation if the insured failed to disclose a required item.



Beneficiary Issues : Problems can arise if the designated beneficiaries are not updated or clearly identified, leading to confusion and potential legal disputes. Sometimes there is no beneficiary listed, and the insured's Estate may be entitled to the money.



Lack of Understanding of Policy Types : Many claimants are not fully aware of the differences between term and whole life insurance policies, or accidental policies, which can lead to misconceptions about the benefits they are entitled to.

The Law Offices of Jason Turchin is dedicated to assisting clients in navigating these complexities. By providing legal advice and representation, the firm fights to help beneficiaries resolve their life insurance claims.

For more information, visit https://www.jasonturchin.com/practice-areas/life-insurance-disputes/.

About the Law Offices of Jason Turchin

The life insurance lawyers at the Law Offices of Jason Turchin have handled hundreds of life insurance claims. Jason Turchin has handled more than 6,500 accident, injury and insurance cases throughout the US. The firm generally handles life insurance cases on a contingency basis. Jason is a published author and member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum list, and Super Lawyers list.

Contact:

Jason Turchin

(800) 337-7755

[email protected]

SOURCE Law Offices of Jason Turchin
HomeFront Brands bestowed this honor on local owner Bob Stewart for his character and dedication to the company's core values

RICHMOND, Va., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Top Fail Fence Richmond owner Bob Stewart was presented with the prestigious CARES Award at the HomeFront Brand's inaugural franchisee convention earlier this month for his dedication to the values that define the franchising company's brand.

Top Rail Fence Richmond owner Bob Stewart, right, shows off his CARES Award with Top Rail Fence President Todd Bingham, left.

The CARES Award, named for the company's core values of community, accountability, respect, excellence and service, is bestowed upon a HomeFront Brand's franchisee that has captured the admiration of the company's other franchisees. The award winner is determined by a vote of the franchisee community at the company's Homecoming Convention held at its headquarters in the Charlotte, North Carolina area.

"Bob consistently surpasses expectations for his dedication to community engagement, respect for others and his devotion to superior service," said HomeFront Brands Chairman and CEO Jeff Dudan. "Our Homecoming Convention was a testament to our incredible expansion since our inception in 2022. Bob Stewart's outstanding character and commitment to our core values is part of the reason for HomeFront Brands' success."

HomeFront Brands presented a CARES Award to a franchise owner from four of its most prolific brands, including Top Rail Fence, Window Hero, The Designery and Temporary Wall Systems. Stewart won the award for Top Rail Fence, the on-time professionals in fence design, quality, installation, and service.

"I'm humbled to be chosen as the CARES Award recipient by a vote of my peers," Stewart said. "It's always been my goal to provide great service and a high-quality product to my community. I'm grateful to the other franchisees for their confidence in my abilities to meet these goals."

Stewart worked as an investment banker for 18 years before entering the building trades, where he has remained for the past 13 years. He is originally from Rochester, New York, but moved to Richmond with his wife Stacy 25 years ago.

He and his wife opened their Top Rail Fence location earlier this year. Together, they serve the communities of Ashland, Bon Air, Chester, Chesterfield, Goochland, Henrico, Hopewell, Mechanicsville, Midlothian, Moseley, New Kent, Powhatan, Prince George, Richmond, West Point and Williamsburg, Virginia.

To learn more about Top Rail Fence Richmond, please visit https://toprailfence.com/locations/richmond/.

About Top Rail Fence

Top Rail Fence got its start in 2014 in Greenville, South Carolina as Brookview Fencing, a veteran-owned and family-operated business. In 2022, the company joined the HomeFront Brands family of companies to serve more communities as Top Rail Fence. Since that time, Top Rail Fence has added locations throughout the United States and is continuing to expand. It strives to be at the top rail in customer responsiveness, quality design and materials, on-time delivery and installation, and in customer satisfaction. The company provides fencing solutions for residential, commercial and agricultural locations and offers wood, aluminum, vinyl, and chain link to provide the right fence to fit the customer's needs. For more information about Top Rail Fence, please visit https://toprailfence.com/.

About HomeFront Brands:

HomeFront Brands empowers entrepreneurs to create thriving franchised residential and commercial property service brands. Driven by an experienced team of franchise executives and rooted in family values, HomeFront Brands helps emerging or established concepts accelerate their growth by delivering enterprise-level solutions to local business owners who aspire to build a dynasty and create generational wealth. By leveraging integrated technology, data-driven intelligence and advanced learning management systems, HomeFront Brands is building a foundation for its brands -- Window Hero, The Designery, Temporary Wall Systems, BiltRite Home Inspections, Top Rail Fence and Mozzie Dome  to transform lives through franchise ownership.

For more information about HomeFront Brands' current solutions, new business development, and franchising opportunities, please visit HomeFrontBrands.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Heather Ripley

Ripley PR

865-977-1973

hripley@ripleypr.com

SOURCE HomeFront Brands
The Nation's Fastest-Growing Engineering and Consulting Firm Makes Strategic Acquisition of Houston, TX-based Firm



ORLANDO, Fla., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- UES, a national leading engineering and consulting company, has acquired InControl Technologies, an environmental consulting firm located in Houston, Texas, with an additional office in Dallas. Founded in 1997, InControl Technologies provides comprehensive environmental consulting and engineering services, and their addition to UES supports the company's expanding focus on environmental services. InControl Technologies' projects include a wide range of environmental site assessments, remediation management, and site closures.

InControl Technologies joins the Texas region of UES, led by Brian Powell, P.E. InControl Technologies' leadership team will continue to operate the day-to-day business. "With their addition, we're thrilled to expand our team of experts able to assist clients with understanding their environmental liabilities, quantifying their financial risks, and creating strategic plans to build sustainably and minimize ecological impact," said Powell, P.E.

"As we plan for the future of UES, we're proud to grow our capabilities to meet the demand for environmentally sustainable development," said UES CEO Dave Witsken. "InControl Technologies' expertise in environmental services even further enhances our ability to provide environmentally sound solutions that benefit our clients and our communities."

InControl Technologies Founder and Senior Principal Michael Marcon shared, "After 27 years, InControl is starting a new and exciting chapter becoming a part of UES. From our first introduction to the UES team, I knew it was the right fit for us, culturally and ideologically. The InControl team is excited to partner with and expand UES' team of environmental experts. We look forward to sharing best practices, staying at the cutting-edge of technological developments, and increasing the services offered to our existing client base. This will be a win-win for both InControl and UES."

In September, UES also acquired Biome Consulting Group, an ecological consulting firm in the Central Gulf Coast region of Florida. Many of UES' businesses acquired to date feature robust environmental services, further enhanced with the addition of Biome Consulting Group and InControl Technologies.

With nearly six decades of experience and recognition as the premier engineering and consulting firm in the geotechnical engineering space, UES is well-positioned to serve the needs of commercial, residential, and civic customers across the country. Beginning in 2019, UES' acquisitions have included prominent engineering firms including: Universal Engineering Sciences, GFA International, Inc., NOVA Geotechnical & Inspection Services, Contour Engineering, Wallace-Kuhl & Associates, Construction Testing & Engineering, SUMMIT Engineering, Laboratory & Testing, GEOServices, McGinley & Associates, Geotechnology, Alpha Testing, GSI Engineering, Speedie & Associates, Rock Engineering Testing & Laboratory, Dan Brown and Associates, Carmichael Engineering, Faulkner Engineering Services, Grubbs, Hoskyn, Barton & Wyatt, Riner Engineering, GEO Solutions, Biome Consulting Group, and now InControl Technologies, which have made UES one of the largest, most resource-rich organizations of its kind nationwide.

About InControl Technologies

InControl Technologies is an environmental consulting firm located in Houston, with an additional office in Dallas. Founded in 1997, InControl Technologies provides comprehensive environmental consulting and engineering services. InControl Technologies stands at the forefront of industry developments through ongoing education, innovative technology, and maintaining regulatory agency relationships. For more information, please visit incontroltech.com.

About UES

UES is a privately held, rapidly growing engineering and consulting firm with nearly six decades of experience in geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing, building code compliance, threshold inspections, and environmental consulting. With nearly 4,000 professionals across more than 85 branches in high growth markets in the U.S., UES consults on projects of all sizes for public and private clients across many industries including transportation, healthcare, commercial, education, industrial, and residential. UES was named 'Hot Firm of the Year' by Zweig Group in 2021, 2022, and 2023. For more information, please visit teamues.com or follow UES on social media .

Media Contact:

Lindsay Graham

Director, Marketing & Communications

UES

407-310-7396

[email protected]

SOURCE UES
Brian P. Friedman of Jefferies and Wesley M. LePatner of Blackstone are honored for their philanthropic leadership

NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- UJA-Federation of New York's Wall Street Dinner raised a record-breaking $45 million for its annual campaign to support a wide network of nonprofits. Since the Oct. 7 terrorist attack against Israel, $156 million has been raised for the UJA Israel Emergency Fund  providing essential support to the people of Israel  with $75 million raised from the Wall Street community.

UJA-Federation of New York

The December 4 sold-out event at the Marriott Marquis was held against the backdrop of Israel at war and rising antisemitism around the globe. Over 1,600 financial professionals heard from UJA Chair of the Board Marc Rowan, who said that "it's very clear that we need the power of organizations like UJA to amplify our impact and accomplish the kind of meaningful work UJA is doing right now." Jeffrey H. Aronson, chair of UJA's Wall Street & Financial Services Division, spoke about his experience co-chairing UJA's community relations and security committee during such an important time, amid the rise of antisemitism, which brings about a greater need to protect the Jewish community.

Eric S. Goldstein, CEO of UJA-Federation of New York, spoke about his recent trip to Israel and said, "I spent this recent trip meeting with many of our partners on the ground  all leading players in crafting the next stage of Israel's civilian emergency response. And everywhere I went across Israel, people were immensely grateful for UJA's immediate mobilization and significant support."

Friedman, president of Jefferies, received the event's highest honor, the Gustave L. Levy Award. Jefferies CEO Rich Handler presented the award to his partner since 2001 and said that utilizing 100%  $13 million  of Jefferies' trading proceeds from October 10 to provide humanitarian aid in Israel is emblematic of the decisive and strategic vision of Friedman and the firm leadership.

Accepting his award, Friedman thanked the generosity of the community and extolled UJA's work during this critical time: "We must never forget, and we must come together. I believe UJA will be our leader into the future and will be one of the key vessels through which we will be able to channel our energy, our efforts, our support, and our resources. This isn't something that is going to wait."

Jon Gray, president and chief operating officer of Blackstone, presented LePatner, global head of Core+ Real Estate at Blackstone, with the Alan C. Greenberg Young Leadership Award. He lauded her brilliant ascent in finance, coupled with her continued support for other women of Wall Street as "she pays it forward from generation to generation."

"I first attended the UJA Wall Street dinner as a young analyst in 2004, where I am pretty certain I sat in one of the last tables at the back of the room," LePatner said in her acceptance remarks. "Never in my wildest imagination could I have believed that I would be up on this stage two decades later. UJA has many super-powers, but it's most important in my view is its power to create a sense of community and belonging and that ability to create a sense of community and belonging matters now more than ever."

Michal Cotler-Wunsh, Israel's special envoy for combating antisemitism, delivered the keynote address. In a passionate plea to the audience, she emphasized that the war in Israel is not just about Israel or Jews experiencing antisemitism across the globe, but it is also about protecting civilization as we know it. She concluded by saying it is critical to recognize anti-Israel rhetoric as a dangerous and insidious form of antisemitism requiring the community to come together as one to stand up against antisemitism.

About UJA-Federation of New York:

Working with a network of hundreds of nonprofits, UJA extends its reach from New York to Israel to nearly 70 other countries around the world, touching the lives of 4.5 million people annually. Every year, UJA-Federation provides approximately $180 million in grants. For more information, please visit ujafedny.org .

SOURCE UJA-Federation of New York
Viking Wins Seven Categories, Including Best River Line and Best for First-Timers in 15th Annual Awards

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Viking (www.viking.com) today celebrated new accolades from Cruise Critic, the world's largest online cruise resource. In the 2023 Editors' Picks Awards, Cruise Critic honored Viking with seven awards  more than any other line  across the luxury, river and expedition categories. Two of the awards are in the luxury category and include Best Cabins and Best Spaan award Viking has won every year since introducing ocean voyages in 2015. The company was also recognized in three river categories: Best for First-Timers, Best River Line and Best Service. Additionally, Viking received two awards in the expedition category: Best for Light Expedition and Best Spa.

Viking today celebrated new accolades from the worlds largest online cruise resource, Cruise Critic in the 15th Annual Cruise Critics Editors Pick Awards. Cruise Critic honored Viking with seven awards  more than any other line  in the luxury, expedition and river categories. For more information, visit www.viking.com.

"We are honored that Cruise Critic's editors have recognized Viking with seven awards, including awards in the luxury category. Because the word 'luxury' can mean something different to everyone, we are reluctant to use it to describe ourselves. But we are always pleased when industry experts categorize Viking as 'luxury,'" said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. "You could say that we are a bit different at Viking. We design voyages for The Thinking Person, with no children and no casinos on board our ships. Prestigious awards such as these showcase our team's hard work and encourage us to continue delivering the meaningful travel experiences that set us apart."

Cruise Critic Editors' Picks

Cruise Critic's Editors' Picks Awards combine editors' impartial cruise expertise  based on firsthand experiences and industry knowledge  to help travelers select the best cruise vacation from an increasing number of cruise options. In ranking Viking in the top spot for seven different awards, Cruise Critic's editors commented with the following:

Best CabinsLuxury : " Viking has created the blueprint for the perfect cruise ship stateroom. Without exception, cabins are spacious and comfortable, with exceptional attention to detail that includes heated floors in the bathrooms, mirrors that don't fog, sockets and USB ports everywhere and verandas for all. It's clear Viking considered every traveler when it was designing staterooms. We love the consistency from ship to ship and cabin to cabin, no matter what level. "

: " " Best SpaLuxury : " The LivNordic spa complex on Viking's ships remains tops among luxury cruise lines. How can you not feel relaxed when you complete the Nordic circuit, which includes time in a sauna, steam room, snow room and thalassotherapy pool? Best of all, access to Viking's thermal spa is included in your fare. Viking's spa offerings have a natural Nordic blend that makes you feel that Scandinavian hygge, no matter where in the world you are. "

: " " Best River LineRiver : " Viking has earned its reputation as the leader on Europe's rivers, where it sails with an enormous fleet designed in serene Scandinavian style. Ships are consistent, and instantly feel like home whether you're sailing for the first or 100th time. Ships' staterooms are thoughtfully designed, and cruises are inclusive of things like excursions and drinks at mealtimes. Viking's expansionincluding to places like the Mississippi River and Egyptmeans there's an itinerary for everyone. "

: " " Best for First-TimersRiver: " Viking wins Cruise Critic's top choice for a first-time river cruise experience simply because of all the things the line does right. Its Longship fleet of ships is beautifully designed, and its crews are attentive and friendly. Food often has nods to regional specialties, and first-time river cruisers will no doubt love Viking's attention to the little details, like heated bathroom floors and plenty of cabins with full, step-out balconies. "

" " Best ServiceRiver: " For the world's biggest river line, the consistency and quality of service never wavers  whether you're in Europe , Asia or on the Nile. From the cabin stewards, to waitstaff, servers and the hotel director, service is front and center on every Viking ship  be it remembering your favorite after-dinner tea, sitting you in your preferred spot at meals or going out of the way to source a local wine. The crew onboard a Viking river vessel are simply exemplary. "

" " Best for Light ExpeditionExpedition : " There's no shame in wanting to relax in comfort, even when you're on an expedition ship. And that's exactly what Viking provides on its duo of expedition ships. At 378 passengers, the ships are big enough to contain extras like multiple restaurants, a fantastic thermal spa and a state-of-the-art theater. Two submarines and a [Special Operations Boat], as well as kayaks, allow for as much active exploration in remote destinations as guests like, accompanied by lectures that help make sense of what they've seen. "

: " " Best SpaExpedition: "Forget about utilitarian expedition ships: Viking's expedition ships come with plenty of spots for pampering, including the impeccable LivNordic thermal spa complex. You'll find a full indoor thalassotherapy poolwith a viewand a large steam room, sauna, snow grotto, cold "dump" bucket shower and experience shower, as well as heated ceramic chairs and padded loungers. Don't forget the "Badestamp," a large, sheltered hot tub where you can relax and watch the Antarctic landscape go by."

Today's announcement from Cruise Critic is the latest milestone in a list of recent accolades for Viking. Last month, the company was named Best Luxury Line, Best Line for Couples and Best Line in the Mediterranean in U.S. News & World Report's 2024 Best Cruise Lines ranking. Additionally, in this year's Silver Travel Awards, Viking's enrichment channel, Viking.TV (https://viking.tv), was recognized for its original content, receiving the Silver Standout for Innovationa third consecutive win for Viking.TV since its launch in 2020. Silver Travel Advisor also voted Viking #1 for Rivers and #1 for Oceans in the awards' Best Premium or Luxury Cruise Line category. In October, Viking made history when it was voted #1 for rivers, oceans and expeditions by Conde Nast Traveler in the publication's 2023 Readers' Choice Awards. The company was also voted to the top of its categories for rivers, oceans and expeditions by Travel + Leisure in the 2023 World's Best Awards. No other travel company has simultaneously received the same honors by both publications. Viking also dominated Cruise Critic's 2023 Cruisers' Choice Awards, receiving top honors in six categories including Best Overall Line, Best River Line, and Best Dining for its ocean and expedition voyages.

Media Assets

For more information about Viking, or for images and b-roll, please contact [email protected].

About Viking

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers, #1 for Oceans and #1 for Expeditions by Conde Nast Traveler in the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards. Viking is also rated at the top of its categories for rivers, oceans and expeditions by Travel + Leisure. No other travel company has simultaneously received the same honors by both publications. For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit https://www.viking.com/. For Viking's award-winning enrichment channel, visit https://www.viking.tv/.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Edelman for Viking

[email protected]

SOURCE Viking
Epicenter celebrates its 20th anniversary, plans to grow retail sevenfold in next similar period, expand into other businesses

The footfall of the Epicenter national chain over 20 years of operation has exceeded 2 billion visitors, and the total area of built shopping centers is 2.2 million square meters, according to a press release for the company's anniversary.

"The national chain Epicenter is celebrating its anniversary: 20 years ago, on December 6, 2003, the company's first retail facility opened at 11, Bratyslavska Street in Kyiv. At that time, its area was 12,000 square meters, and today, the retailer has grown to the scale the largest retail chain in Ukraine," the chain said.

In the next 20 years the group of companies will continue to actively develop.

"In retail trade alone, Epicenter plans to increase its business by at least sevenfold. The implementation of ambitious and large-scale projects will also take place in other sectors of the economy, including in the agricultural sector, manufacturing, logistics, energy and other areas of business," the company said.

To date, for the construction of all the company's shopping centers more than 200,000 tonnes of metal structures have been used.

According to the group, the chain's assortment during its operation increased from 26,000 SKUs to 800,000, and from a classic construction hypermarket it was transformed into a network of full-fledged shopping centers with individual shops in the shop-in-shop format, including 30 exclusive concepts.

The assets of the Epicenter group also include logistics facilities with a total area of 172,000 square meters and its own vehicle fleet with more than 3,000 vehicles, which in total covered more than 675 million km during operation.

The staff of Epicenter Group includes 38,000 employees in Ukraine alone.

The press service recalled that the company makes a significant contribution to the Ukrainian economy through investments and taxes. Thus, according to the company's forecast, in 2023, the taxes and mandatory payments paid by Epicenter Group would exceed UAH 7 billion.
Industry Veterans Join High-Growth AI Leader to Accelerate Go-to-Market Scaling and Expand Strategic Focus on National Security and Governmental Solutions

PASADENA, Calif., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Virtualitics, Inc. , an AI data analytics company, today announced the appointment of Rob Ferguson as Chief Revenue Officer and Rob Bocek as President, Public Sector.

Ferguson has served in key leadership roles at prominent enterprise software companies including Salesforce, where he spent more than a decade, Oracle, and PTC. Ferguson joins Virtualitics to apply his expertise in leading go-to-market teams responsible for helping many of the world's largest, most influential companies realize success through adoption of advanced technologies.

"We are pleased to hire someone with the outstanding strategy and execution experience that Rob Ferguson brings to the table," said Michael Amori, CEO and co-founder of Virtualitics. "Rob will help Virtualitics accelerate our commercial business and build on the strong foundation of success we have already established in the federal government sector."

"It's an incredible time to join Virtualitics," said Ferguson. "The Virtualitics platform is proven in the most demanding, mission-critical environments. I welcome the opportunity to work closely with customers to help them leverage our ongoing innovation in AI data analytics to achieve quantifiable, high-impact results."

Bocek has more than 15 years of experience leading teams in emergent defense, intelligence technologies, and enterprise software, bringing a wealth of expertise to Virtualitics. In his new role, Rob will spearhead the company's initiatives within the U.S. defense and public sector domains, driving strategic business growth and expanding Virtualitics' footprint in crucial government sectors.

"I'm excited to welcome Rob Bocek as our new president of public sector," said Amori. "Rob has a deep understanding of our federal clients and has demonstrated excellence in all aspects of his career, beginning with his military service as a Navy SEAL officer to his tenure at Microsoft Federal, and later on, working at multiple defense-focused startups. Like everyone at Virtualitics, Rob is passionate about our mission. His expertise will be pivotal in strengthening our partnerships with government agencies and in furthering our commitment to providing AI-driven solutions for national security and public sector challenges."

"I'm thrilled to join the tremendous team at Virtualitics, especially at such a crucial time where mission-AI technologies are revolutionizing how leaders are making better decisions with more accurate data," said Bocek. "Virtualitics' AI-driven data exploration, visualization and applications will transform the way national defenders, public safety personnel, and first responders assess threats, mitigate risk, and keep us safe."

About Virtualitics

Virtualitics, Inc., an AI data analytics company, is pioneering the power of AI- and machine learning-guided data exploration to transform organizations. The Virtualitics AI Platform is an advanced analytics solution empowering everyone with faster, ready-to-use AI that is easily understood by analysts and business leaders. The company's patented technology is based on more than 10 years of research at the California Institute of Technology and has been tested, proven, and leveraged by the federal government and large enterprises. For more information visit virtualitics.com

SOURCE Virtualitics
BENTON HARBOR, Mich., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) announced today that it will host an Investor Day on February 27, 2024, in New York City.

The event will be held at the New York Stock Exchange, beginning at 9:00 a.m. EST. The event will include presentations and Q&A from Whirlpool Chairman and CEO, Marc Bitzer, and other members of the executive leadership team. Attendance at the event is by invitation only.

Additional information will be available closer to the event date.

About Whirlpool Corporation

Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) is committed to being the best global kitchen and laundry company, in constant pursuit of improving life at home. In an increasingly digital world, the company is driving purposeful innovation to meet the evolving needs of consumers through its iconic brand portfolio, including Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Consul, Brastemp, Amana, Bauknecht, JennAir, Indesit, Yummly and InSinkErator. In 2022, the company reported approximately $20 billion in annual sales, 61,000 employees and 56 manufacturing and technology research centers. Additional information about the company can be found at WhirlpoolCorp.com.

SOURCE Whirlpool Corporation
SAN DIEGO, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wilshire Quinn Capital announced Wednesday that its private lending fund, the Wilshire Quinn Income Fund, has provided a $12,550,000 refinance loan on a hotel portfolio in Laguna Beach, California.

The first property is a two-story, 7,070 square-foot boutique hotel, comprised of 14 rooms and 14 parking spaces, with 1,800 square-feet of street level retail.

Photo of Subject Hotel Property in Laguna Beach, California Securing Recent Wilshire Quinn Loan

The second property is a three-story, 24,686 square-foot resort hotel, comprised of 54 rooms, a fitness center and pool, with 54 parking spaces. Both hotel properties are located just one block from the ocean and less than a half mile from downtown Laguna Beach.

"At the core of our bridge lending platform is our commitment to providing swift lending solutions amid tightening liquidity and heightened commercial lending restrictions. This commitment ensures our borrowers escape the delays typical of traditional lenders," said CEO Christopher Garcia.

Wilshire Quinn, a national portfolio bridge lender and debt fund manager based out of San Diego, is well known for its quick loan closings and competitive short-term lending rates.

ABOUT WILSHIRE QUINN

Since 2011, Wilshire Quinn (www.wilshirequinn.com) has provided senior debt financing ranging from $200,000 to $20,000,000 on a variety of property types, including but not limited to: non-owner-occupied residential properties, multi-family properties, condos, hotels, assisted-living facilities, parking lots, office buildings, industrial buildings, and retail centers. Wilshire Quinn works directly with real estate owners and mortgage professionals nationwide.

Wilshire Quinn Income Fund, LLC NMLS # 2282570. Loans are made or arranged by Wilshire Quinn Income Fund, LLC in California pursuant to California Finance Lenders Law license #603J060. Please visit www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org for more licensing information. Mortgage loan products are offered to qualified borrowers for business or commercial purposes only. Financing is subject to certain restrictions and requirements. Rates and terms depend on a variety of factors that may change without notice. Wilshire Quinn Capital, Inc. serves as manager of the Wilshire Quinn Income Fund, LLC. The information above is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. Nothing contained in the information above is an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Any such offer to purchase securities will be made only through the private placement memorandum, operating agreement, and subscription agreement ("Offering Documents") of the Wilshire Quinn Income Fund, LLC.

Media Contact: Natalie Snyder, 619-872-6000, [email protected]

SOURCE Wilshire Quinn Capital, Inc.
Health leaders to prepare report on the protection of health in armed conflict.

DOHA, Qatar, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), an initiative of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), announced the WISH 2024 summit will take place in Doha on November 13 and 14, 2024.

Across two days, more than 2,000 health policy makers, innovators, researchers and practitioners will convene in Qatar to look for innovative solutions to some of the world's biggest health challenges.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (seated left) , Director General, WHO, and Sultana Afdhal, CEO, WISH, sign a collaboration agreement at Qatar Foundations headquarters, witnessed by Her Excellency Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari (top right), Minister of Public Health in Qatar, and representatives of WHO.

WISH 2024 will be the seventh edition of WISH  an event now firmly established as a vital feature on the global health calendar.

Following high-level discussions between Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of QF, and Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), WISH will be entering into a strategic partnership with the WHO in the lead up to WISH 2024, formalizing an ongoing relationship between two over recent years.

Central to the partnership will be three WHO-led collaborative research projects, generating evidence-based reports for in-depth discussion at event.

Additionally, local and international partners will work with WISH to develop reports for the summit on a range of issues in areas such as health systems, ethics, physical health, and mental health. WISH 2024 will continue to emphasize the need for regional perspectives on global health.

WISH CEO Sultana Afdhal was joined by Dr. Tedros at a ceremony to sign a collaboration agreement between WISH and WHO on December 4th.

The agreement signing was witnessed by Her Excellency Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, who, in addition to being Minister of Public Health for the State of Qatar, is the current Chair of the World Health Organization's Executive Board. The Ministry is a strategic partner of WISH, having supported the summit since the first edition ten years ago.

Sultana Afdhal said: "We are delighted to share that we will be back with WISH 2024 next November; we remain committed to creating a platform where evidence-based research can inform global health practices. It is an honor to welcome Dr. Tedros to the WISH 2024 launch, to share news of our strategic partnership, and to share our vision for a healthier, more equitable world."

Dr Tedros expressed his appreciation to Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, for the new partnership and said: "Our expanding collaboration with WISH builds on a track record of impact and will further demonstrate our joint resolve to tackle pressing global health issues, including tuberculosis, palliative care and protecting health in armed conflict. We look forward to contributing to the evidence base and are very much committed to the partnership."

More WISH 2024 themes and speakers will be announced over the coming months. Those wishing to register their interest to attend the conference can do so via the WISH website: wish.org.qa

For media inquiries, please contact: Sarah Fouad, on [email protected], +974 66099846

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2294542/WISH.jpg

SOURCE The World Innovation Summit for Health "WISH"
On the Day of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, there is only one word  "Well done," only one emotion  gratitude, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a video address on Wednesday.

"And only one wish is to win. Commanders, take care of your soldiers, take care of yourself. Be yourself. I congratulate you on the Day of the Armed Forces of Ukraine," he said.

"And we remember  St. Nicholas the Wonderworker will come to those who behaved well. The Armed Forces of Ukraine will come to those who behaved insignificantly," he said.

Zelenskyy said "we have those who prove by deeds that it will be our way, they prove it every day. Those who fight for our freedom, on the frontline, in the trenches, tanks, airplanes, in all branches of our forces, in all our brigades, "in our east, in our south, in our north  throughout Ukraine. Who gives battle at the front and protects our peaceful regions."

"Now I am walking through the capital of our beautiful state. I am going from the President's Office of Ukraine, and not someone else's Gauleiter," he said in an address recorded during his walk to the Wall of Memory in Kyiv.

"Ahead of us is European Square, where there are our blue and yellow flags, not tricolours. Ahead is the Saint Volodymyr Hill in honor of our Grand Duke... We have behind the daily struggle for temporarily occupied territories. Ahead is the liberation of them, these are our lands, these are our people," the president said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy did not attend a classified briefing in the U.S. Senate, as well as a briefing in the House of Representatives, CNN's congressional correspondent Manu Raju said on Tuesday, citing Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.

"Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer says Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is not going to attend classified briefing virtually anymore because of a last-minute matter. Zelenskyy also didn't end up appearing virtually at the House briefing on Ukraine," Raju said on the X social network.

Earlier, Chuck Schumer said the administration of President Biden would invite Zelenskyy to address Senators via secure video link as part of the classified briefing.
New Delhi, Dec 6 : The Art Alive Gallery's new group show titled 'Immersive Infinities' being held in the national capital features works of six artists that allow the audience to experience ceramic art through the prism of immersive experiences while narrating stories of history, politics, nature, environmental concerns, community, and more.

On till December 15, 2023, the group show features works of Vinod Daroz, Thomas Louis, Rakhee Kane, Shirley Bhatnagar, Shweta Mansingka, and Partha Dasgupta.

Talking about the curatorial framework, the showas curated Kristine Michael says: "The artist as storyteller takes the audience on a journey tapping into an emotional memory or truth - both literally and metaphorically. An immersive experience is transformative - a conduit to take you by the hand into a new vision created by the artist in an intimate spatial environment through visual and tactile delights."

"This exhibition allows the audience to experience ceramic works that span a range of topics, from architecture to social justice, the body, the domestic, the political, and the organic, to reclaim the centrality of ceramics as a medium in the world of art," he adds.

Vinod Daroz's ceramic gold bar installation is a testament to the integration of creative processes and philosophical foundations.

"Objects of Me" is an immersive experience created by Rakhee Kane, who borrows from her journey and uses art as a medium to take viewers into her world. She uses space to explore the impermanence of relationships, mirroring the natural cycles of life.

Shirley Bhatnagar's art is a fascinating blend of ancient pottery traditions and contemporary sensibilities. Her work 'Not Exactly Human' becomes a vessel for storytelling, human-animal interplay, and the creation of a unique, otherworldly experience in a world dominated by mass-produced and impersonal materials.

Shweta Mansingka's art draws inspiration from the Advaita philosophy which attributes the potential and completeness of infinite creation to each atom. 'Locked Vulnerabilities' is a contemplative ceramic wall installation that delves into the human experience of vulnerability. Her other work, 'Circle with Many Centers and No Circumference' challenges conventional notions of structure and form.

Thomas Louis' ('Guardian Spirit') perspective underscores the interplay between vulnerability, resilience, and our relationship with the environment.
25 dead after bus plunges off cliff in Philippines. Image Source: IANS News

Manila, Dec 6 : At least 25 persons were killed when a passenger bus plunged off a cliff in Antique province in central Philippines, local media reported.

The bus, carrying 53 passengers, was travelling west from Iloilo City to San Jose de Buenavista in Antique province when it crashed into a concrete road barrier before plunging into a ravine shortly before 5 p.m. local time on Tuesday in Hamtic town.

The deaths include the bus driver and his collector, Xinhua news agency reported, citing local news web ABS-CBN.

Quoting the Antique provincial government, Panay News, a regional newspaper, reported that two critically wounded passengers, including a male from Kenya, were taken to a hospital in Iloilo City for treatment.

Emergency workers are rescuing the survivors and retrieving the bodies of the people in the ravine.
United Nations, Dec 6 : A UN spokesman has refuted the US claim that civilians in Gaza should seek refuge in UN-designated safe places.

In response to US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller's suggestion that Gazans should seek refuge in UN-designated sites that are listed by Israel as "deconfliction zones", Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said on Tuesday there are no such things in Gaza, Xinhua news agency reported.

"Well, let's be clear. There are no UN-designated safe zones in Gaza. I think all my senior colleagues have been very clear, including the secretary-general, saying there are no safe places in Gaza," said Dujarric.

"There are shelters that fly the UN flag that are sheltering thousands and thousands and thousands of people -- men, women, and children who are trying to stay alive and get some food, get some water. We have seen, since the beginning of this conflict, that those places that fly the UN flag are not safe either," he said.

Asked where people in Gaza should go when they are ordered to evacuate, Miller said, "People should go to the UN-designated sites where -- that are on Israeli lists as deconfliction zones that should not be the target of military campaigns."

"There are already people who are sheltering in those. As the (Israeli military) campaign moves to the south (of Gaza) and Israel evacuates specific neighbourhoods or orders specific neighbourhoods to be evacuated, that is where people should go," he said.
Looking forward to see results of India's probe on Pannun: US. Image Source: IANS News

Washington, Dec 6 : The US has said that it is looking forward to seeing the results of India's investigation into the plot to kill a Sikh separatist leader, and will not make any assessments before the probe is finished.

"We have noted at the most senior levels of this government -- the Secretary of State has raised this directly with his foreign counterpart that we take this issue very seriously. They told us they would conduct an investigation," US State Department spokesperson, Matthew Miller, said in his news briefing on Tuesday.

"They have publicly announced an investigation. And now we'll wait to see the results of the investigation, but it's something we take very seriously," Miller said in response to a question on developments in the case at the diplomatic level.

He further said that it would be "inappropriate" for him to comment on a "law enforcement matter" as the Department of Justice is presenting the case in court.

"We are looking forward to seeing the results of that (India's) investigation, and I'm not going to make any assessments, obviously, before the investigation itself is completed," Miller told reporters.

The comments come a week after the White House said that it takes the allegations that an Indian was involved in a foiled bid to kill Khalistani leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on its soil "very seriously".

When asked by a reporter whether the plot to kill Pannun is an attack on the US sovereignty, Miller said: "I'm not going to speak beyond what -- the information that's contained in an indictment for I think what are -- for what I think are fairly obvious reasons".

US federal prosecutors last month accused Indian intelligence official Nikhil Gupta of "planning and directing" a plot from India to allegedly kill Pannun in New York.

Reacting to the charges, India's Ministry of External Affairs said it was a "matter of concern" and "contrary to Indian government's policy".

India constituted a high-level Enquiry Committee to look into all the relevant aspects of the matter, and said it will take necessary follow-up action based on the findings of the Committee.

On being asked about India's 'non-cooperation' with the Canadian government on Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar's case, Miller said in his Tuesday's briefing they have urged New Delhi to cooperate with Ottawa.

Canada claimed in September that Nijjar was shot dead by Indian agents in British Columbia province in June this year.

While responding to Canada's allegations, India said recently: "As far as Canada is concerned, they have consistently given space to anti-India extremists and violence. That is at the heart of the issue".
Lucknow, Dec 6 : The Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) has decided to deploy teams of personnel to conduct door-to-door verifications of every dog's licence.

Majority of people are yet to renew the mandatory licence for their pets in the city.

The pet licences expire on March 31 every year. LMC's chief veterinary officer Abhinav Verma said, "Those who are yet to comply with rules related to keeping pets may have to pay a fine or face the risk of confiscation of pets. The rules will be implemented strictly as they highlight the importance of responsible pet ownership for the well-being of both animals and the community."

According to officials, only 4,000 of the 8,200 licensed dog owners from the previous year have complied with the requirement. This has caused financial losses to the civic body and jeopardized public safety, as the vaccination status of unlicensed dogs is unknown.

As per rules, every dog owner has to get a licence from LMC every year. One person can keep a maximum of two dogs if they have 200 square yards area and maximum four if 400 square yards area.

The licence fees vary based on the breed. Foreign or mixed-breed dogs incur a licence fee of Rs 1,000 per dog, while Indian breeds are charged Rs 200 per dog.

Dogs are required to be sterilized after one year of age. LMC officials said they will start a drive against pet owners without a licence after the first fortnight of December. Those who do not renew the licence, will face a hefty fine of Rs 5,000 per dog, and the pet may be confiscated by the authorities. The confiscated pets will be housed at the LMC dog shelter in Indiranagar until the fine is paid.
Lucknow, Dec 6 : A physiotherapist allegedly murdered his wife by slitting her throat in his house in Thakurganj area of the state capital, said police on Wednesday.

The incident came to light when the womanas mother visited the house on Tuesday and found her daughteras body in a room.

Police said the accused had lost a considerable amount in betting and a tiff between the couple over the matter could have led to the murder.

The suspect, Anandeshwar, 40, is on the run.

Kamala, a resident of Naka Hindola, informed the police that she visited the house of her daughter, Sandhya Sahu, 38, in Thakurganj, on Tuesday noon and found her daughteras body wrapped in a bedsheet in a room in the backyard of the house. Blood was splattered all over the room and Sandhya had a deep cut on her throat, Kamala said.

ADCP, west zone, C.N. Sinha said preliminary investigation revealed that Kamala tried to contact her daughter on Monday night but she did not respond.

In the morning, Sandhyaas son, Shaurya, 9, called Kamala and informed her that his parents were not at home.

Kamla reached the house and found her daughteras body wrapped in a bedsheet in the room in the backyard.

Sandhyaas elder son, Tanishq, is differently-abled and cannot speak.

The ADCP said that Sandhyaas brother, Aman Sahu, lodged a complaint with the police charging Anandeshwar with murder.

He alleged that Anandeshwar and his brother Mintu had assaulted Sandhya in the past too and a police case was registered in this connection.

Anand was married to Sandhya in 2008.
Tel Aviv, Dec 6 : Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed the United Nations, human right groups and women's right groups globally on their silence over the cruel rape and sexual assault on Israeli women during the October 7 Hamas attack in Southern Israel.

In a press conference late Tuesday, the Israel Prime Minister asked the human rights organisations, women's rights organisations and the United Nations as to whether they remained silent because those who bore the sexual abuses, rape and mutilation happened to be Jewish Women.

Netanyahu also said that he had listened to the gory tales of women hostages in Gaza being abused, and added that he was addressing the press conference after listening to the terrible moments that the hostages had gone through in Hamas captivity.

He said, "I urge all civilised leaders, governments and nations to speak up against these atrocities on Israeli women."

The Prime Minister of Israel also said that the IDF was making advances in south Gaza and added that the Hamas will be getting the taste of firepower more in the days to come.
New Delhi, Dec 6 : Congress Lok Sabha MPs Gaurav Gogoi, Manickam Tagore and Manish Tewari moved adjournment notices in the House for demanding a discussion on the fresh firing incident in Manipur, the "critical issue affecting MSMEs in Tamil Nadu and the death penalty to eight ex-Indian Navy personnel in Qatar respectively.

In his notice, Gogoi said, "I hereby give notice of my intention to ask for leave to move a motion for the adjournment of the business of the house for the purpose of discussing a definite matter of urgent importance, namely -- A firing incident was reported in Manipur's Tengnoupal on Monday, December 04, 2023, after which the Assam Rifles initiated an operation in the area. Following the operation, 13 bodies were recovered in the Tengnoupal district."

He mentioned that the official source said that the deceased individuals in the Leithu area did not seem to be residents, suggesting that they may have come from elsewhere and engaged in a firefight with another group.

"The ethnic violence in the state had already claimed at least 175 lives since May 2023. The incident comes amid the state and central leadership assertions that Manipur is inching towards peace and normalcy. It indicates that the situation on the ground is far from normal. There is an urgent need to review the current situation and discuss the roadmap for bringing back peace and normalcy in the region," he said.

Giving a notice on the MSME situation in Tamil Nadu, Manickam Tagore said in his notice, "I hereby give notice of my intention to ask for leave to move a motion for the adjournment of the business of the house for the purpose of discussing a definite matter of urgent importance, namely -- To discuss about the critical issue affecting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Tamil Nadu, particularly concerning the aggressive actions taken by private banks against these businesses in the matter of loan repayments."

He said that several MSME units in Tamil Nadu availed loans in 2017 and responsibly repaid them.

"However, with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government announced a moratorium to provide relief to businesses, allowing them to defer loan repayments. In response, many MSMEs took additional loans to cope with the economic challenges posed by the pandemic," he said.

"But certain private banks are not only merging the outstanding amounts from the earlier loans but are also initiating aggressive actions, including the potential takeover of properties worth significantly more than the outstanding loan amounts. For instance a private bank is in the process of seizing properties valued at Rs 2 crore for an outstanding loan amount of 80 lakh. This disproportionate response is causing distress among the MSME community, raising serious concerns about the financial stability and survival of these enterprises.

"Therefore, I propose that the House urgently discusses this matter keeping aside other routine business and directs the government to issue clear instructions to private banks. The objective should be to protect the MSME sector in Tamil Nadu," Tagore added.

Manish Tewari in his notice said, "I hereby give notice of my intention to ask for leave to move a motion for the adjournment of the business of the house for the purpose of discussing a definite matter of urgent importance, namely -- That this House do suspend Zero Hour, Question Hour, and other Businesses of the Day to have a discussion regarding the retired-Indian navy personnel imprisoned in Qatar. 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, were sentenced by the Qatari court on October 26, 2023."

He said that he has been constantly raising this matter since August 2022 both inside and outside the House but the response of the government has been no response for 14 months.

"In the meantime the eight Naval Personnel (Retd) have ostensibly been brutally tortured, self incriminating confessions extracted and sentenced to death in a Kangaroo Trail in a couple of perfunctory hearings. The Government has not even called in the Qatari Ambassador to protest the matter strongly. There is no visible protest by the Indian government.

"Despite the purported acceptance of their appeal, crucial details such as charges, court rationale, and the judgment of the copy of the Court of First Instance remain undisclosed. I therefore urge the government to inform the House of the situation about our Navy personnel in Qatar and the steps taken to bring them back to India. I hereby request permission to raise this matter," Tewari added.
News organisations can also get a share of Xs ad revenue: Musk. Image Source: IANS News

San Francisco, Dec 6 : Elon Musk's AI company called xAI is seeking to raise up to $1 billion in equity investments.

According to a filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Tesla and SpaceX CEO has raised $134.7 million so far for xAI.

The $135 million came from four unnamed investors, with the first sale occurring on November 29.

The SEC filing noted that xAI will only accept a minimum of $2 million from outside investors.

Taking on Sam Altman-run OpenAI's ChatGPT, Musk said last month that xAI's AI chatbot Grok has current information in comparison to traditional GPT models.

The xAI 'Grok' AI assistant is being provided to the users as part of X Premium Plus which costs $16 per month via web.

"Grok is an AI modeled after the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, so intended to answer almost anything and, far harder, even suggest what questions to ask," said the xAI team.

Grok is designed to answer questions with a bit of wit and has a rebellious streak.

Musk was a co-founder of OpenAI but left in 2018 over the company's for-profit shift, and has called ChatGPT "WokeGPT".

The billionaire launched xAI earlier this year. The team is headed up by Musk and includes team members that have worked at other big names in AI, including OpenAI, Google Research, Microsoft Research, and Google's DeepMind.

"The goal of xAI is to understand the true nature of the universe," according to the website.
F-16 coalition working to increase number of aircraft that to be transferred to Ukraine  Kuleba

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said the F-16 coalition is working, including on increasing the number of aircraft that will be transferred to Ukraine after training Ukrainian pilots and engineers.

"The F-16 coalition is working, inter alia, to increase the number of aircraft that will be transferred to Ukraine," Kuleba said at a press conference with Dutch Foreign Minister Hanke Gerdina Johannette Bruins Slot, who arrived in Kyiv.

The minister said that on the issue of the F-16, all political decisions have been made and the technical preparation stage is now underway.

"As soon as the technical training is completed: pilots, technicians, and infrastructure in Ukraine, these aircraft will be in Ukraine," he said.

According to Kuleba, now everything is "tied to purely technical things," and not political ones.

"Today I received assurance that the obligations that the Netherlands assumed to transfer F-16s to Ukraine will be fulfilled. We are grateful for this," the Foreign Minister said.

Earlier this year, the U.S. State Department expressed its readiness to approve the transfer of U.S.-made F-16 aircraft to Ukraine by a third party. The Netherlands, Denmark and Norway announced their intention to transfer fighter jets to Ukraine.

In October, Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin said the first F-16 aircraft could arrive in the Ukrainian Air Force no earlier than the spring of 2024.

On November 13, the European F-16 Training Center (EFTC) opened in Romania at the 86th Fetesti Air Base, where Ukrainian pilots will undergo training.

The Pentagon later said Ukrainian pilots are being trained in the United States and Europe in both F-16 flight operation and maintenance.
Tel Aviv , Dec 6 : The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has issued an apology to the Lebanse army after its missile attack hit a Lebanese military base killing one soldier and injuring few more.

IDF in a statement on late on Tuesday said that it regrets the death of a Lebanese soldier and injuring several other Lebanese soldiers in an attack directed towards Hezbollah linked targets in Lebanon.

The Lebanse army had earlier issued a statement which read: " An army military position in Adaysseh area was bombarded by Israeli enemy army. One soldier of our army was martyred and three soldiers injured."

It is to be noted that ever since the Hamas attack on October 7, Israel and Hezbollah are engaged in skirmishes with Hezbollah claiming that 79 of its soldiers were killed in Israeli bombardments. Israel has also said that six of its soldiers were killed in Hezbollah attacks in Northern Israel borders.
New Delhi, Dec 6 : Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday paid tributes to BR Ambedkar on his 67th death anniversary, saying he inspire him everyday to strive for justice for all citizens.

In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi said, "Babasaheb Ambedkaras life and his message inspire me everyday to strive for justice for all citizens. Humble tributes to him on his Mahaparinirvan Diwas."

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh in a post on X said, "Today is the 67th death anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. He had converted to Buddhism along with his wife and lakhs of his followers in Nagpur on October 14, 1956. A month later he was in Kathmandu for a meeting of the World Fellowship of Buddhists where he gave a talk on Buddha and Marx. Thereafter, he went to Lumbini and embraced the historic Ashoka pillar at Buddha's birthplace."

Ramesh said that after Lumbini, Dr. Ambedkar and his wife visited Bodh Gaya, the site of the Buddha's enlightenment, Sarnath where the Buddha first preached his teachings and Kushinagar where the Buddha had passed away.

"Returning to New Delhi on November 30, 1956, Dr. Ambedkar visited an exhibition of Buddhist statues and two days later participated in a welcome ceremony for the visiting Dalai Lama at Ashoka Vihara. He attended the Rajya Sabha for the very last time on the morning of December 4, 1956. The next day he met with a delegation of Jain munis and had a conversation on Buddhism and Jainism. He finalised the preface to his book, aThe Buddha and his Dhammaa and brought his two other books (i) Revolution and Counter-Revolution and (ii) The Buddha and Karl Marx to near completion.

"His wife wrote in her memoirs that after dinner on December 5, 1956, he had started singing Kabir's couplet Chalo Kabir Tera Bhavasagar Dera (Move on Kabir, this is your temporary abode) with a lot of passion and musicality. She was to find him dead the very next morning. The Prime Minister paid him a tribute later that day in the Lok Sabha," Ramesh added.

Ambedkar played a pivotal role in drafting the Constitution as the chairman of the drafting committee and also served as the Law and Justice Minister in Jawaharlal Nehru's initial cabinet.

Ambedkar, hailing from a Dalit background, ascended to a prominent position in Indian politics. He championed for the rights of the underprivileged.
Los Angeles, Dec 6 : Actress Susan Sarandon has been asked to leave the thriller film 'Slipping Away' amid her anti-Semitism controversy.

'Slipping Away' is about a schizophrenic man who "struggles with his own psychosis and his wife's extramarital affair."

In the wake of the October 7 massacre by Hamas, Sarandon has been under fire for her latest outburst for saying Jews are "getting a taste of how it feels to be Muslim in America."

David Barroso, co-founder of the indie movie production company PTO Films, told Page Six: "As a company, PTO Films would like to make it clear that Susan Sarandon's views do not reflect the opinions of our organisation. We were considering her for a short film, but due to her recent statements, we have decided to pursue other options."

The actress had been set to play Dr Sylvia Mansfield in 'Slipping Away', with the film appearing in her "upcoming" projects list on IMDB under the "pre-production" list, reports aceshowbiz.com.

She has also been dropped from her talent UTA agency as "several staffers" are said to have been "extremely hurt" by her comments on the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Sarandon made her controversial comment about Jews "getting a taste of how it feels to be Muslim in America" after she attended a string of rallies in New York tackling the Israel-Hamas conflict - during which she also joined in the chant "From the river to the sea."
Patna, Dec 6 : Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday said that he will attend the next meeting of Opposition I.N.D.I.A. block.

He also hoped that all Opposition parties under the umbrella of I.N.D.I.A contest against NDA unitedly. "I have been talking about unity for the past one year and also advised all Opposition parties to contest the Lok Sabha election jointly. But as the state elections approached, some parties got busy. I reiterate that all parties should sit together and plan out strategies for the 2024 polls," Kumar said while speaking to media persons here.

Kumar also said that he will go for the meeting of I.N.D.I.A whenever it is held in future.

After the INDIA meeting called by the Congress in New Delhi was cancelled, RJD chief Lalu Prasad on Tuesday said that the next meeting will be held on December 17.

"When I expressed my inability to attend the meeting on Tuesday, people came up with numerous theories. My reason was my ill health. I had a mild fever below 100 degrees and hence I took five days' rest and recuperated at home," Kumar said.

"Those people were trying to change the country's history, while we were working for the people of the state and the country. We have provided jobs to lakhs of youths besides conducting caste-cum-economic surveys in the state. Now we have actual data of castes and financial condition of the people," he said.

"The financial condition of more than 95 lakh people in Bihar is not good as per the survey and hence we have decided to provide Rs 2 lakh to one of the family members as a loan. So we are doing many things and always believe in doing work in the state. Our efforts for the betterment of common people will continue," Kumar said.
New Delhi, Dec 6 : Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has cautioned parents to be alert so that their children don't get swayed away by the superhero characters trying to imitate them.

During the episode 82 of the quiz-based reality show 'Kaun Banega Crorepati 15', host Amitabh spoke to government primary school principal Sevak Gopaldas Vitthaldas.

The 'Don' actor said: "Mr Computer wants to know when you aren't at school and you are with your wife at home, how do you spend your free time?"

The contestant replied: "Sir, I like to watch films when I'm free. I play with my son. I like to play pranks. We have Lord Hanuman's character in Ramayana. He is shown flying. In reality, the actor lies on a glass plate. He is shown flying through computer graphics."

"I show my son the tactics by lying flat on the floor, moving my legs and carrying the mace like this. I show him what they show on TV," he added.

Replying to this, the 81-year-old actor said: "Sir, just as a precaution, please be cautious. We see many characters like the superman in films. They fly in the air. Children think they can also fly. They consider it real. They dress up like those characters and act like a superman."

"I feel awkward to say but I saw a child standing near the window on the first floor. -I asked, 'what are you doing?'. The child said 'I'm a superman. I'm going to fly'. So we need to be alert while handling them. They get swayed after watching such images. Children get impressed just like you," added the 'Brahmastra' actor.

'Kaun Banega Crorepati 15' airs on Sony.
Dubai, Dec 6 : Enrolment in Indian private schools in Dubai surged by nearly 9,000 in a year, the Emirate's private education regulator said, announcing the results of the latest Indian school inspections.

The number of pupils attending Indian private schools in Dubai stood at 94,499 in 2022-23, surging ahead of previous academic year's 85,588, The National newspaper reported.

Rashmi Nandkeolyar, principal at Delhi Private School Dubai, told The National: "During the pandemic, in schools like ours, which are good value for money, suddenly there was a huge influx of enrolment."

"Because we had online classes, we could accommodate a few more pupils. Now we are at full capacity and we don't have a single spot."

"Lots of people are moving to Dubai as it is a very safe place and budget schools like ours are doing very well. Those are definitely going to be sought after," Nandkeolyar told The National.

In October, authorities said the overall private school pupil population in Dubai surged by a record 39,000 in one year.

Official statistics at the time showed more than 365,000 pupils were enrolled in the Emirate, up from 326,000 in November 2022.

Four Indian schools improved from acceptable to good and no schools declined in their ratings, the inspection results showed.

Delhi Private School and The Millennium School were the only schools that ranked outstanding for well-being, while Gems Modern Academy in Nad Al Sheba area was rated outstanding for inclusion.

"Our vision is to transform Dubai into a global destination for education and this starts with every school and every classroom... Dubai has ambitious targets for the growth of its economy and population and high-quality education will be central to achieving these targets," Abdulla Al Karam, Director General, Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), said.

According to the news report, well-being became a key focus of school inspections last year, when 29 Indian-curriculum schools received good or improved rankings in the field.

In the rankings issued by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority, one Indian-curriculum school was rated outstanding, 10 were rated very good, 14 were deemed good and seven were marked as acceptable.

Gems Modern Academy is the only Indian school to have been ranked outstanding consistently since 2011.

aIt's because I think we focus on well-being and have been doing it for a number of years," said Nargish Khambatta, principal of the school, which follows the Indian and the IB curriculum.

According to recent official data, 35 per cent of pupils are enrolled at UK schools, 26 per cent at Indian schools and 16 per cent at US curriculum schools in Dubai.

Pupils studying in the Emirate's private schools represent 187 nationalities, highlighting Dubai's multicultural society. The Gulf region is home to 215 private schools, offering 18 different curriculum choices.
New Delhi, Dec 6 : Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday expressed his concern over the flood and drought situations in few states, adding that Karnataka is grappling with one of the severest droughts ever.

A strategic staggering 223 out of the 226 talukas in the state have been adversely affected by these drought conditions, he added.

Of these, while 96 talukas are experiencing severe consequences, the remaining 27 talukas face moderate effects.

In many cases, the damage to crops ranges from 40 per cent to 90 per cent.

Total estimated loss due to crop damage in the state of Karnataka is expected to be Rs 35162.05 crore. Compounding the severity of the situation Karnataka is confronting a new challenge, he added.

To tie over the challenge, the state government has sought assistance amounting Rs 18,171 crore from the national disaster response fund. This financial support is crucial for providing input subsidy relief and implementing other immediate drought relief measures, he added.

Kharge said that due to a deficit rainfall, water in various reservoirs is also at alarming low levels.

The water storage is at its lowest in the last five years.

Going forward, the state will also see a shortage of drinking water for cattle and people.

The Government has taken several decisions to help farmers suffering from crop damage, he informed the House.

Addressing the chairman, he said, "Not just drought, but the flood situation is also serious in southern parts of the country, including Chennai in Tamilnadu and Kerala. Despite the requests of chief ministers of the affected states, the Centre does not seem to budge.
Seoul, Dec 6 : South Korea should no longer mull whether or not to embrace immigrants as the country is at the brink of extinction from a population crisis, Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon said on Wednesday.

Han made the remarks in a policy meeting of the People Power Party (PPP) as he stressed the importance of establishing a new government agency overseeing immigration policies to tackle South Korea's dwindling birthrate and projected decline in the population, Yonhap news agency reported.

"The immigration policy I plan to push ahead is not aimed at bringing in as many foreigners as possible," Han added.

"We aim to make thorough assessments and accept only necessary foreign nationals ... while strengthening the crackdown on illegal residents."

The envisioned organisation will be similar to that of Japan and Germany and function like what he described as a "control tower" overseeing relevant ministries related to immigration, the Minister said.

He also stressed the need to improve existing systems related to refugees and voting rights of foreigners in local elections.

It is the first time that Han has attended a general meeting of PPP lawmakers. His attendance came amid speculation that he could run in the April parliamentary elections.

Han said his visit was merely a "routine duty to discuss important policies with the ruling party".
Los Angeles, Dec 6 : Socialite Paris Hilton has revealed the reason why she opted for a surrogate for the birth of her two children. She said that it was due to the trauma she endured during her teenage years.

During an interview with Romper, Paris said that she still has "so much PTSD from what (she) went through" at Utah's Provo Canyon School for troubled youth.

"If I'm in a doctor's office, I get a shot, anything, I will literally have a panic attack and I can't breathe," she told the outlet, reports pagesix.com.

"I just knew that would not be healthy for me or the baby, growing inside of someone who has such high anxiety."

In 2020, the socialite alleged that she had been physically, sexually, and emotionally abused during her nearly year-long stint at the school. She claimed that part of the alleged abuse included non-consensual gynecological examinations in which she was held down against her will.

The school previously said that they "do not condone or promote any form of abuse."

The 'Simple Life' star previously touched on her fear of pregnancy during an interview with Glamour UK, saying that "death" and "childbirth" were the "two things that scare (her) more than anything in the world."

Aside from that, Hilton said that it would have been nearly impossible to manage her hectic work schedule along with the side effects of pregnancy.

"My schedule is out of control," she said, adding that her days are often planned a year in advance.

"There never would've been the right time to do it because there's literally no time to do anything in my life," she said.

Despite the long and difficult road to motherhood for Hilton, she feels like her "life is finally complete."

While the heiress-turned-entrepreneur says two kids is the "perfect" number, she is still open to potentially having one more.

"I used to look at my friends who'd be like, 'Oh, I have to go home to my kids and my husband,' like, 'You're so lame. This is so fun. I can't imagine being like that,'" she recalled.

"Now I'm one of those boring people, and I couldn't be happier. I couldn't imagine it any other way."
Seoul, Dec 6 : South Korea urged North Korea on Wednesday to acknowledge the issue of prisoners of the 1950-53 Korean War detained in the country and cooperate in uncovering their fate.

Seoul made the call during an interagency meeting on the issue of prisoners of war (POW) -- the first session of its kind under the Yoon Suk Yeol administration, Yonhap news agency reported.

The participants, including Vice Defence Minister Kim Seon-ho and officials from the foreign and unification ministries, also decided to continue making requests to North Korea for "substantive" measures on the issue in the future, according to the Defence Ministry.

South Korea says 80 South Korean POWs in North Korea have fled to their home country since the war ended in a ceasefire, not a peace treaty.

South Korea estimates that more than 500 POWs had still been alive in North Korea as of late 2016. Still, North Korea denies holding any POWs.
Yermak, Stefanchuk discuss with chairmen of committees of U.S. House of Reps need to strengthen Ukrainian air defense

As part of their visit to the United States, head of the President's Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk and Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov met with Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the U.S. House of Representatives Michael McCaul, Chairman of the Intelligence Committee of the House of Representatives Mike Turner and House Armed Forces Committee Chairman Mike Rogers.

"During the meeting, Ruslan Stefanchuk and Andriy Yermak noted the importance of the speedy consideration in Congress of a budget request to finance additional expenses for assistance to Ukraine in the amount of more than $61 billion, which is vital to continue the liberation of our lands from Russian invaders," the press service of the head of the Ukrainian state reports.

In addition, during the meeting, the parties discussed Ukraine's urgent defense needs, in particular in strengthening air defense, increasing the supply of long-range missiles, artillery shells, tanks and armored vehicles, as well as the transfer of F-16 aircraft.

The parties also discussed the issue of Euro-Atlantic integration of Ukraine. The head of the President's Office emphasized that Ukraine's strategic goal is full membership in the Alliance, and this accession will also strengthen NATO.

Yermak thanked the meeting participants for preparing the document Proposed Plan for Victory in Ukraine, which provides for clear U.S. actions to confront Ukraine against the Russian Federation, as well as the entire American people for financial, humanitarian and defense assistance to Ukraine.

In addition, representatives of the Ukrainian delegation noted the leadership of the United States in strengthening Ukraine's capabilities.

"We appreciate that both U.S. parties - Republican and Democratic - are united in supporting Ukraine. Bipartisan support is our main value, and we count on its preservation," the head of the President's Office emphasized.

Yermak and Stefanchuk also held a meeting with representatives of the Ukrainian caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives, where they discussed the implementation of reforms provided for in the cooperation program with the IMF.

"The Concept of strengthening the sustainability of democracy in Ukraine has already been developed. They also assured that for the team of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, one of the biggest priorities is the fight against corruption, as evidenced by the numerous proceedings opened recently," the message says.

The parties discussed deepening cooperation with the Ukrainian caucuses, attracting new members to them, and expanding cooperation with other congressional caucuses.

Yermak also noted the importance of supporting a bill that would authorize the U.S. Department of Justice to quickly confiscate valuable assets that belong to sanctioned Russian oligarchs and transfer them to Ukraine.

In addition, the Ukrainian side highly appreciated the draft resolution of the Senate for the 90th anniversary of the genocide against Ukrainians - the Holodomor of 1932-1933.
Bigg Boss 17: Vicky says thats my game when Ankita asks aap mujhe bhi use kar rahe ho kya. Image Source: IANS News

Mumbai, Dec 6 : Ankita Lokhande and Vicky Jain's relationship has once again taken a turn in the show 'Bigg Boss 17', going by the promo.

A promo shared by the channel shows Ankita in the therapy room requesting Bigg Boss to put her in the 'Dimaag' room. But in return Bigg Boss says that she has to nominate her husband Vicky for the entire season.

She denies the offer and goes out.

Later, Bigg Boss announces the same offer was made to Vicky and if Ankita wants to know the answer. However, the answer isn't shown but a tiff between the two is spotlighted.

Ankita is seen asking Vicky: "Aap mujhe bhi game ki tarah use kar rahe ho kya."

To which, Vicky replies: "Everything is game and that's my game."

'Bigg Boss' has another interesting proposition for those who haven't set foot in the Dimaag makaan yet. This relocation drill is their chance to pitch themselves as the ultimate Dimaagwale to rule the roost from that abode.

Vying for power and authority, these contestants put on their best persuasive hats, trying to convince Bigg Boss that they're the perfect fit to call the shots in the Dimaag makaan. Consequently, the master of the house reveals that there are two contestants whose individual journeys haven't made it to the spotlight.

These housemates will be granted the incredible opportunity to take charge of the house while residing in the Dimaag makaan.
Beijing, Dec 6 : The top diplomats from China and the US discussed the war between Israel and the Hamas terror group in a call, Beijing and Washington said on Wednesday, the media reported.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken "reiterated the imperative of all parties working to prevent the conflict from spreading," according to the US State Department.

Beijing said that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stressed in turn that, regarding the war, "the top priority is to ceasefire and end the war as soon as possible".

"Major countries must adhere to fairness and justice, uphold objectivity and impartiality, demonstrate calm and rationality, and make every effort to cool down the situation and prevent larger-scale humanitarian disasters," Wang said, according to the Foreign Ministry.

He reiterated Beijing's calls for a two-state solution to the conflict, stressing that "any arrangement involving the future of Palestine must reflect the will of the Palestinian people," The Times of Israel reported.

"China is willing to work with all parties to make efforts to this end," he said.
United Nations, Dec 6 : UN children's body, Unicef, on Wednesday condemned the sexual violence against women and children on October 7, but made no mention of the perpetrators, the Hamas terror group, the media reported.

"The accounts of sexual violence on October 7 in Israel are horrific," wrote UNICEF chief Catherine Russell on X.

"Survivors must be heard, supported and provided with care. Allegations must be fully investigated. We condemn gender-based violence and all forms of violence against women and girls," Russell said.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the US President Joe Biden castigated human rights groups, women's organisations and the United Nations for failing to speak out about the rapes and other atrocities committed by Hamas against Israeli women and children, despite the two leaders having stayed largely publicly quiet on the matter until now, The Times of Israel reported.

International human rights organisations have faced intense scrutiny from public figures and rights organisations in Israel and the state's supporters abroad, who have urged them to acknowledge and investigate the testimonies of rape and sexual violence committed during the October 7 onslaught in which thousands of Hamas-led terrorists killed more than 1,200 people and seized nearly 240 hostages.

The United Nations in particular has been the target of criticism by Israeli rights groups, after nearly eight weeks went by before it issued a condemnation and committed to launching an investigation into the allegations of sexual violence.
Jharkhand first state to take steps to ensure minimum wages for workers. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Dec 6 : With the arrest of six people in two operations, the Delhi Police's Crime Branch on Wednesday claimed to have busted an inter-state drug cartel supplying narcotics to students in the city and its peripherals through social media and delivery apps.

The accused were identified as Rudransh Gupta, Lakshay Bhatiya, Girik Aggarwal, Nongmaitham Jashobanta Singh, Thiyam Rabikanta Singh and Khalid Zafar, who used to deliver drugs through delivery apps like 'Porter' and 'Wefast' among others.

In the first operation, specific input was received about a drug syndicate from the northeastern region engaged in supplying high-quality ganja in Delhi-NCR area from a house at DLF Capital Greens, Moti Nagar in Delhi.

"The information further revealed that ganja was being transported from Manipur and Shillong by train and organic ganja from Phuket, Thailand by air," said the Special Commissioner of Police (Crime) Ravindra Singh Yadav.

Accordingly, a raid was conducted and Nongmaitham Jashobanta Singh and Thiyam Rabikanta Singh were arrested.

On interrogation, the accused disclosed that they transport ganja from Manipur to Dimapur via road and then by train to Delhi and organic ganja via flight.

"They further disclosed that they supplied ganja to one of their associates named Rudransh Gupta. At the instance of accused Nongmaitham Jashobanta Singh, his partner and co-associate Gupta was arrested and 2.78 kgs of ganja was recovered from his house," said Yadav.

During interrogation, Gupta disclosed that he was involved in the illegal business of drugs for the last two years and he took delivery of ganja from Jashobanta and Chakma, who belong to Mizoram.

The Special CP said, "Gupta was in touch with his clients through social media platforms like Whatsapp, Instagram and Facebook at various universities. He took orders from his clients on these platforms and delivered through services like 'Porter', 'Wefast' etc. He took money through UPI in his bank accounts," said Yadav.

In another operation, Bhatiya, Aggarwal and Zafar were arrested and 15 grams of MDMA and 1,200 grams of organic ganja were recovered from their possession.

"Bhatiya disclosed that he supplied drugs to university students along with his associate Girik Aggrawal. At the instance of Bhatiya, a co-associate Aggrawal was also arrested," said the Special CP. Bhatiya used to collect drugs through Aggrawal.

"A raid was conducted and the main source of the contraband and the mastermind of the gang, Zafar was also arrested," said the Special CP.

Bhatiya and Zafar met each other in Amity University, Noida and both are drug addicts.

"Later on, they engaged in the business of drug supply to the college students. Bhatiya, after procuring drugs, used to supply to his clients through social media platforms like Whatsapp, Instagram and Facebook at various universities like NSUT, Delhi and Amity University in Noida," said the officer.
Kolkata, Nov 6 : Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday issued a notice to the superintendent of the state-run S.S.K.M. Medical College and Hospital asking him to be present at the agency's Salt Office in connection with the multi-crore cash-for-school-job case in West Bengal.

The S.S.K.M. superintendent has been asked to bring along with him the latest medical reports of Sujay Krishna Bhadra, a prime accused in the school job case, sources aware of the development said.

The development is quite significant amid repeated complaints from the ED officials accusing the S.S.K.M. authorities of non-cooperation in conducting Bhadra's voice sampling test.

The notice comes just a day after the hospital authorities at Joka in the southern outskirts of Kolkata informed the ED sleuths of almost completing the process of the available medical board to conduct the medical examinations of Bhadra required to be done before the voice sampling test as per the directive of a special court in Kolkata.

Earlier, the ED officials had visited S.S.K.M a number of times to enquire about the medical conditions of Bhadra. But every time they were informed by the hospital authorities that Bhadra is yet to be fully fit medically to undergo the voice sampling test.

But this time instead of them visiting the hospital, the ED sleuths have decided to summon its medical superintendent with the report of one of the prime accused in the school job case.

Bhadra is currently being housed at state-run S.S.K.M Medical College & Hospital in south Kolkata since his bypass surgery in August.

The central agency sleuths have again and again accused the hospital authorities of non-cooperation in conducting Bhadra's voice sampling test.

The voice sample test has become imperative following the Calcutta High Court's direction to wind up the investigation into the school jobs case by December 31.

Recently, Naushad Siddique, the lone All India Secular Front (AISF) representative in West Bengal Assembly, expressed apprehension over the life threat for Bhadra.
Islamabad, Dec 6 : Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's marriage with Bushra Bibi has been challenged and contested in the Pakistani courts by her ex-husband Khawar Farid Maneka, whose servant has alleged that Bushra Bibi had "illicit relationship" with Khan and that both would meet in closed room at Maneka's residence under the sneer of spiritual healing.

The housekeeper of Khawar Farid Maneka has recorded his statement before the court stating that he was an eye-witness to multiple times when Khan and Bushra Bibi were engaged in a sexual encounter at Maneka's residence.

Muhammad Latif, an old employee of Maneka appeared before the Civil Judge, where he claimed that former PTI Chairman used to come to Bushra Bibi's house and both used to go to a room together.

"Maneka used to ask me to go to the room and keep an eye on them but both used to abuse me and ask me to go out when I used to visit the room," he stated.

"When Bushra Bibi would not pick up Maneka's call, he would call me and tell me to go into the room. I have also forced Khan out of the house on the directions of Maneka," he added.

"Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi had an illicit relationship," said Latif, claiming that he had seen both engaging sexually multiple times.

The controversy around the marriage of Khan has taken an ugly turn after Khawar Maneka gave an interview, in which he said that his then wife Bushra was in constant contact with Khan and would meet him privately without his permission.

Maneka stated that he was serving in the customs department in Karachi when Khan used to visit his house to meet his wife Bushra behind his back.

Maneka also has claimed that after getting a "forced divorce" from him, Bushra bibi got married to Imran Khan without completing her "Iddat" (a period of at least 90 days required to complete by the female before getting married elsewhere)".

Khan, after getting married on January 1, 2018 realised that the marriage was illegal as Bushra Bibi had not completed her iddat. It was this reason why a second nikkah ceremony was done in February, 2018.

Khan has rejected the allegations leveled against him by Maneka, stating that he saw Bushra Bibi's face only on the day of the NIkkah (Islamic Marriage).

However, Maneka's claims are being questioned as his latest statements are proving that his previous praises about Khan and Bushra Bibi, were completely false. Many believe that Maneka is lying on many things in his claims.

"Maneka is lying to a great extent. But not all is false. Maneka claims of illicit relationship of his then wife and Imran Khan have now been confirmed and put on record by at least four persons, which can have serious consequences and repercussions by both law of the land and the Islamic Shariah for Imran Khan," said senior journalist Javed Chaudhry.
Jammu, Dec 6 : J&K Police on Wednesday filed an FIR in a bomb hoax call case in Jammu city.

"Jammu Police acted swiftly on bomb threat by an unknown caller to one private school.

"Police conducted extensive search and sanitised area. The threat turned out to be hoax and FIR has been registered," police wrote on its X-post handle.

Police in Jammu said that an unknown caller told an educational institution in Jammu city that he had planted a bomb there.

Security forces and the bomb disposal squad reached the educational institution at Residency road, Jammu this morning.

The threat call turned out to be a hoax following which police registered an FIR and started investigation.
Belagavi, : Dec 6 (IANS) Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Wednesday that the BJP which was in power for four years could not close the potholes in the roads of Bengaluru. He was speaking to the media at Belagavi Airport on Wednesday.

Reacting to the BJP's accusations that work was not done under 'Brand Bengaluru', the CM said, "It has only been six months since we came to power. Did the BJP create 'Brand Bangalore'?"

"The High Court had reprimanded the BJP Government for not filling the potholes. What moral right do they have to talk about Bengaluru," he asked.

Replying to a statement that when sessions are being held in North Karnataka the ministers are all staying in Telangana, the CM said, "Not all the ministers are there. One or two have gone as there is need to do work also. Only Zameer Ahmed and DK Shivakumar should come back."

Responding to former CM HD Kumaraswamy's statement that Siddaramaiah has no development speech, only appeasement speech, the CM replied that he had said that "all communities including Muslims will be protected."

-- IANS

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Tokyo, Dec 6 : Japanese public prosecutors have begun questioning lawmakers of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)'s largest faction on a voluntary basis over a political fund scandal, local media reported on Wednesday.

Seiwaken, or the Seiwa policy study group, the largest LDP faction previously led by the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, was suspected to have pooled secret funds amounting to around 100 million yen (about $679,000) over at least the past five years through 2022, national news agency Kyodo reported.

The slush funds were suspected to have been created by returning part of sales of political fundraising party tickets to its lawmakers as kickbacks, Xinhua news agency reported.

Prosecutors have questioned on a voluntary basis secretaries of lawmakers who were alleged to have received kickbacks from Seiwaken, Kyodo reported, citing investigative sources.

At least 10 lawmakers received kickbacks, with some given 10 million yen or more by the faction comprising around 100 members, said the report.

The special squad of the Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office was investigating flows of funds and the details of how political funds reports were created at the faction, eyeing the possibility of establishing a case on suspicion of violating the political funds control law, Jiji Press reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.

Japan's political funds control law requires political organisations to list in their fund reports the names of individuals or organisations that paid more than 200,000 yen at a fundraising party, along with the amounts paid.

According to multiple local media outlets, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday requested all LDP factions to refrain from holding fundraising parties for the time being, amid growing criticism and allegations that five LDP factions, including his own underreported their revenue from fundraising parties.

"New revelations have emerged to expand the allegations surrounding the political fundraising parties of various LDP factions, taking the scandal into a new phase," Japanese newspaper Asahi Shimbun said in an editorial published on Wednesday.

"Fundraising parties have long been criticised for a lack of transparency and described as a hotbed for the creation of slush funds," noted the editorial, urging the LDP to "dig deep to get to the bottom of slush fund allegations." (1 Japanese yen equals $0.0068)
New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks in the Lok Sabha during the Winter session of Parliament. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Dec 6 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said that the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 and Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2023 will give justice to those who were deprived of their rights for the last 70 years.

Speaking on two Bills in the Lok Sabha, Shah said, "The Bill that I have brought here pertains to bringing justice to and providing rights to those against whom injustice was done, who were insulted and those who were ignored."

He said that in any society, those who are deprived should be brought forward and that is the basic sense of the Constitution of India.

"But they have to be brought forward in a way that doesn't reduce their respect. There is a huge difference between giving rights and giving rights respectfully. So, instead of a weak and deprived category, renaming it to Other Backward Class (OBC) is important," the Minister said.

He said that a few people also tried to underestimate it.

"Someone said that only the name is being changed. I would like to tell all of them that if we have even a little sympathy then we need to see that respect is attached to the name. This can be seen by only those who want to bring them forward considering them like their brothers," he said.

Taking a swipe at the opposition, he said that "those who use it as vote bank for their own political benefit...Narendra Modi is a leader who was born into a poor family and became the Prime Minister of the country today. He knows the pain of the poor."

He also said that many members asked what has been done for the displaced? What will giving them a reservation change?

"By giving them reservation, their voice will reach Kashmir's assembly and if anybody tries to do something similar again, they will be stopped by them."

He also highlighted that there was an era of terrorism after the 1980s and it was horrifying.

"Those who lived on the land considering it their country, were thrown out and no one cared about them. Those responsible for stopping it were enjoying vacations in England," he said hitting back at previous governments.

Shah also said that when Kashmiri Pandits were displaced, they were forced to live as refugees in their country.

"According to the present data around 46,631 families and 1,57,968 people were displaced in their own country. This Bill is to get them rights, this Bill is to give them representation," he said.

Shah had moved the Bill on Tuesday in the Lok Sabha.
This week the U.S. Congress will consider amendments to the draft law on the 2014 U.S. defense budget, including the extension of the Lend-Lease Act for 2024, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States Oksana Markarova has said.

"First, tactically, our crucial task now, which we are working on with our American colleagues, is the adoption of an additional budget for Ukraine for the entire year 2024. What kind of package it will be in  is an internal question of the United States. We will be grateful for the help and hope that in the near future, over the next two weeks, both parties will find a compromise and accept a package that will contain exactly the help we are waiting for  armed, direct budgetary, humanitarian, energy," Markarova said on the air of the telethon.

She said that in parallel, a lot of work is going on the weapons Ukraine needs. The third track, according to the ambassador, is U.S. sanctions, the fourth is the seizure of Russian funds.

"The fifth track is the so-called NDAA military budget, which is being considered this week. This is the bill in which we ask both the House and the Senate to extend the Lend-Lease Act until 2024. Yes, this is an additional tool, we want to get our four armed grant programs. But even if we exhaust them earlier, it will be very good to have this as an auxiliary tool," the ambassador said.

In an interview with Voice of America in July 2022, Ukrainian Ambassador to the United States Markarova explained that "Lend-Lease is an additional instrument that we, I hope, will use more actively if necessary, when we see that funds from other countries are running out."
Agra Dec 6 : Passionate tree lovers of the Taj city on Wednesday resolved to turn Agra into the "Bougainvillea capital" of India, in the next few years.

Already large stretches along the MG Road, the Yamuna Kinara Road, and around the grand Mughal monuments are lined up with Bougainvillea vines exploding in a riot of fascinating colours.

The Bouganvillea crusader Mukul Pandya who has organised an exhibition of Bougainvillea plants, close to the Taj Mahal, told IANS that Bougainvillea is ideally suited for Agra, as the vines or bushes are sturdy, suited to the local agro-climatic conditions, requiring very little water and care.

The exhibition is drawing enthusiastic tree lovers who are amazed by the variety and the mesmerising colourful feast offered by the Agra Horticulture Club.

A native of South America, Bougainvillea now finds patrons and lovers all over India. Pandya recounted the love story of a French adventurer and his girlfriend of the same name, who brought the colourful bushy plant from South America in the 18th century.

"Essentially Bougainvillea is a genus of thorny ornamental vines, bushes, and trees belonging to the 'Four O'clocks Family', consisting of sepal-like bracts which surround the waxy colourful leaves of the plants that thrive in hot and dry conditions.

Of the around 300 varieties, Pandya has successfully grown 100 varieties. He has succeeded in grafting single plants with several colourful strains.

"Some 50 years ago, I began collecting different varieties and planted them on my terrace which eventually caved in due to the weight of flower pots. Agra has taken a fancy for Bougainvillea.

"Locals are planting Bougainvillea in a big way along boundaries, and open spaces. Several parks in the city have hundreds of Bougainvillea plants."

Ranjna Bansal, patron of the Club said that their dream is to turn Agra into a Bougainvillea capital.

"A campaign will be soon launched involving green activists, various government departments, NGOs and tree lovers," he said.

The Bougainvillea Exhibition 2023 was organised for the Horticulture Club of Agra by Lovely Kathuria, Daisy Gujaral, Renu Bhagat. More than 799 specimens of 100 cultivars in the form of vines, shrubs, miniature trees and bonsai, were on display.

Pandya said for the first time B Changi Airport, B Kayata, and Royal Dauphine, were put on display. The jury members included Manashi Ray, Shiv Kunzroo, and Mradul Pathak. The first prize went to Daisy Gujaral, second to Monica Agarwal, and third to Kanchan Ahuja.

Ankush Dave, a specialist in conserving rare species of flora and butterflies, said that Agra's arid climate makes it an ideal place for propagating Bougainvillea which does not require too much care or water and is safe from marauding simian population.

Raman, member of the Supreme Court monitoring committee on pollution, assured all help and support to popularise planting of Bougainvillea.

Kamal Singh of the Agra Heritage Group said that due to the monkey menace, Bougainvillea has become an automatic choice for tree lovers, as the thorns of this ornamental plant scare the simians.

Over the years, the green cover in the eco-sensitive Taj Trapezium Zone has shrunk. The green cover in the Agra district is around 7 per cent, against the national target of 33 per cent.

"Though the state horticulture department and the forest department have been ritualistically planting millions of saplings every year, the results defy visibility," said Padmini Iyer of the River Connect Campaign.

But now there was some hope, as the efforts of the Agra Horticulture Club, to popularise Bougainvillea were yielding encouraging results.
Gaza, Dec 6 : The lives of some of those held hostage in Gaza are in immediate danger, the Hostages and Missing Persons' Families Forum said in a letter to the Israeli war Cabinet, the media reported.

"We received solid intelligence that there are abductees whose condition has deteriorated and there is now immediate danger to their lives," the letter reads.

"We demand that you act urgently, with initiative and creativity, to reach a deal for the immediate release of all the hostages."

The letter, which includes expert testimony from Hagai Levine, head of the medical team at the forum, says that at least a third of those held in Gaza have preexisting conditions that require regular medical treatment, The Times Of Israel reported.

Without care, some of them may be in life-threatening danger, or have irreversible damage, the letter says.

Additionally, many of the abductees were injured when they were kidnapped -- suffering gunshot wounds, lost limbs and shrapnel wounds -- which, untreated, could lead to risk to life, complications, disabilities and suffering.

The hostages are also being tortured, physically and/or mentally, and deprived of adequate food.

A markedly tense meeting was held on Tuesday between a group of recently released hostages and family members of those still held in Gaza, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the other members of the war cabinet.
Tel Aviv, Dec 6 : The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Wednesday said that they have surrounded the house of Hamas senior most leader Yahya Sinwar in Khan Younis area of Gaza.

"We have surrounded his house but could not locate Sinwar. He has gone into hiding," a top IDF ranking officer told IANS.

The IDF has claimed that Mohammed Deif and Yahya Sinwar -- Hamas' two top leaders -- are allegedly behind mastering the October 7 attacks on southern Israel.

The IDF officer told IANS that Sinwar has gone hiding in the Hamas tunnel network in southern Gaza.

The Israel Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has said that IDF will search for Sinwar.

The IDF has also claimed that most of the middle rung leaders Hamas have been killed since Israel began its ground offensive in Gaza.

Israel has killed over 15,000 Palestinians since the October 7 attacks -- mostly children and women -- while 1400 Israelis were killed by Hamas.
Tel Aviv, Dec 6 : The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said on Wednesday that reservists of the Menashe Regional Brigade, Duvdevan unit, LOTAR and Border Police operated overnight in the West Bank's Jenin refugee camp, detaining 10 wanted Palestinians and locating two tunnel shafts and three bomb-making labs, the media reported.

Several firearms, weapons, and other equipment were seized, it added.

The IDF said that Israeli troops clashed with Palestinian gunmen in the area, returning fire at the armed suspects and those hurling explosive devices, The Times of Israel reported.

One soldier was lightly hurt in the clashes, according to the IDF.

The IDF said that another 16 suspects were detained in other areas of the West Bank.
Los Angeles, Dec 6 : Actress Sofia Vergara has been granted a temporary restraining order against an alleged stalker.

The 51-year-old 'Modern Family' actress went to court to gain an order of protection for herself and her 32-year-old son Manolo Gonzalez Vergara to keep Gregory Brown away from them both after the TV star accused him of "aggressive and harassing conduct", reports Female First UK.

In legal documents obtained by TMZ.com, Sofia called Brown a "mentally unstable stalker" with "a delusional belief he personally knows her and has a relationship with her and her family." She added that his "aggressive and harassing conduct" has caused her anxiety and emotional distress and made her fear for her safety.

In her filing, the actress claimed Brown made several attempts to contact her and her son including gaining unauthorised access to the gated community where she lives back in July.

As per Female First UK, Sofia also claimed to have received a letter from Brown in which he vowed to be "seeing and hearing her very soon" and was signed from "Gangsta".

A judge granted a temporary restraining order against Brown which means he now has to stay at least 100 yards away from Sofia and her son. He's also banned from contacting them. It comes after Sofia admitted she has endured a "very difficult" year. As well as her ordeal with Brown, Sofia has been going through heartbreak after splitting from her partner Joe Manganiello in July and she admitted it's been a "very interesting" time for her.

She told People: "I've had a very interesting year. I don't want to say 'bad' or anything like that, but it's been very interesting and very difficult." Sofia observed the long-running SAG strike also made it a "weird, weird year". She added: "I went through a divorce this year, the SAG strike that went on for so long. "I've seen my friends struggle - some had to take their kids out of their schools or had problems with their mortgages, so it's been a weird, weird year."

Despite this, Sofia remains optimistic about her future. The actress said: "It's not like it's bad. I think all the things are resolving, everything is going to be okay and I'm very excited for next year."
New Delhi, Dec 6 : The Health Ministry's National Organ and Tissue Transplantation Organisation (NOTTO) is investigating claims of a cash-for-kidney scam at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital. The State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (SOTTO) will also look into the matter.

NOTTO has also instructed Delhi Health Secretary SB Deepak Kumar to examine the issue and provide a report within a week.

Allegations involve villagers from Myanmar being flown to Apollo's Delhi hospital to donate kidneys to wealthy Burmese patients, as per the reports.

In response, Indraprastha Medical Corporation Ltd (IMCL) denies the allegations, calling them false and misleading.

IMCL asserts compliance with legal and ethical transplant procedures, exceeding government guidelines and internal processes.

"The allegations made in the recent international media against IMCL are absolutely false, ill-informed and misleading. All the facts were shared in detail with the journalist concerned. To be clear, IMCL complies with every legal and ethical requirement for the transplant procedures including all guidelines laid down by the government as well as our own extensive internal processes that exceed compliance requirements," said the spokesperson.

"For example, IMCL requires every donor to provide Form 21 notarised by the appropriate ministry in their country. This form is a certification from the foreign government that the donor and recipient are indeed related," said the spokesperson.

"The government appointed transplant authorisation committee at IMCL reviews documents for each case including this certification and interviews the donor and the recipient. It further re-validates the documents with the embassy of the country. The patients and donors undergo several medical tests, including genetic testing," said the spokesperson.

"These and many more steps far exceed any compliance requirements for a transplant procedure and ensure that donor and recipient are indeed related as per applicable laws. IMCL remains committed to the highest standards of ethics and to delivering on our mission to bring the best healthcare to all," the spokesperson added.

Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, a Delhi-based multi-specialty facility, faces scrutiny amid modifications to National Organ Transplantation Guidelines by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Tel Aviv, Dec 6 : The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said on Wednesday that a surface-to-surface missile, believed to have been launched from Yemen, was intercepted over the Red Sea using the long-range Arrow air defence system, the media reported.

The incident set off sirens in the southernmost city of Eilat, though the IDF says the missile did not enter Israeli airspace, The Times of Israel reported.

"The target did not cross into Israeli territory, and did not pose a threat to civilians. The alert was activated according to protocol," the IDF added.
Ramallah, Dec 6 : Two Palestinians were killed and at least 20 others injured during clashes with Israeli soldiers in the West Bank on Wednesday, the Palestinian Health Ministry said.

The Ministry said in a press statement that a 16-year-old teenager was killed by the Israeli army in the town of Tammun, and a 23-year-old man was killed in the Al-Faraa refugee camp in the northern West Bank, Xinhua news agency reported.

The clashes followed Israeli soldiers' raid on Al-Faraa camp and Tammun, south of Tubas, during which at least 11 Palestinians were injured, said a Palestinian security source who requested anonymity.

In addition, three Palestinians were injured, one of them critically, and two others were arrested during an Israeli raid on the Dheisheh refugee camp south of Bethlehem on Wednesday, a local source said, adding the seriously injured youth was shot in the abdomen.

The source added that seven Palestinians were injured during an Israeli military operation in the city of Jenin and its camp that lasted about nine hours, during which 20 Palestinians were arrested and infrastructure was damaged.
Dubai, Dec 6 : The COP28 Presidency on Wednesday joined with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), the UN Climate Change High-Level Champion for COP28, and Bloomberg Philanthropies to call on housing, urban development, environment, and finance ministers to back the 'Joint Outcome Statement on Urbanisation and Climate Change.' The Statement, which was supported by over 40 Ministers of Environment, Urban Development and Housing, was put forward at COP28 during the second Ministerial Meeting on Urbanisation and Climate Change.

At the event, the COP28 Presidency UAE reiterated its appeal to national governments to fully integrate climate action among all levels of government and collaborate with sub-national governments on the design and implementation of new climate plans and policies, including the next round of NDCs ahead of COP30 in 2025.

The Statement sets out a 10-point plan to boost the inclusion of cities in the decision-making process on climate change, drive multilevel climate action and accelerate the deployment of urban climate finance so that cities are prepared and supported to respond to the climate crisis.

Currently, 90 per cent of cities are threatened by rising sea levels and storms, and their residents are exposed to ten degrees higher temperatures than their counterparts in rural areas.

"COP28 is a paradigm shift to action. We are empowering and supporting cities on the frontlines of climate change to seize the initiative," said Sultan Al Jaber, the COP28 President.

"We have brought over 450 mayors and governors to COP28 and their hyper-local knowledge is crucial in informing our global solutions. When we talk about inclusivity this is what we mean, we need all voices at the table. I thank and commend those involved for their leadership," added Al Jaber.

"Each city has individual needs and solutions but fundamentally this is a global problem, which this Statement shows. We have bought over 1,000 mayors and governors to COP28 as, when we talk about full inclusivity this is what we mean. We know we can need to learn from and support those on the frontlines. I thank and commend those involved for their leadership," added Al Jaber.

The Statement builds on the 'Coalition for High Ambition Multilevel Partnerships' (CHAMP), which was launched at the Local Climate Action Summit (LCAS) on December 1 at COP28 and aims to inform and empower ministers.

CHAMP aims to identify and strengthen levers to increase and accelerate the deployment of climate finance to enable cities and local governments to respond to the climate crisis.

It also aims to enable the inclusion of local and regional leaders in the formation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

To date, CHAMP has been endorsed by over 60 national governments. Maimunah Mohd Sharif, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), said, "The ministerial meeting was a key moment in our work toward inclusive and climate-resilient cities and communities. A diverse range of stakeholders gathered including leaders from the national and local level, underscoring the shared priority of supporting urban environments to withstand climate challenges."

Though cities, which are home to most of the world's population, contribute over 70 per cent of CO2 emissions, immediate action could bring down their emissions to near net-zero.

(Vishal Gulati can be contacted at gulatiians@gmail.com)

IANS

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New Delhi, Dec 6 : Elon Musk-run X on Wednesday released a new feature that will let users share their community posts with all followers on iOS.

An engineer at X announced the feature in a post, saying that the new feature is available to users on iOS first and will be available on the web and Android soon.

"We just released a new feature in the latest iOS update. When you post to a community, you can now also 'share the post with your followers'. Community post will be broadcasted to your followers and visible in your profile. Coming soon to Web and Android," he wrote.

Users who want to broadcast a community post can do so by selecting the "Also send to followers" option when posting in a community. The post will also be available in the poster's profile.

In October, X launched two new subscription plans for its users, including a $16 per month Premium Plus plan that lets people pay more to get the biggest boost for their replies.

In addition to Premium Plus, the company has also launched a new "Basic" option for $3 per month for a small boost to your replies.

The platform also launched a new Basic tier for $3 per month (when signing up via the web) that "gives you access to the most essential Premium features".

--IANS

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Ukrainian forces reportedly conducted successful drone strikes against Russian military targets in occupied Crimea on the night of December 4 to 5, the analytical report of the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported on Wednesday.

The report says that Ukrainian media reported on December 5, citing sources in the Ukraines Main Military Intelligence Agency (GUR) and Ukrainian Security Service (SBU), that GUR and SBU elements struck a Russian military oil terminal in Feodosia, a Nebo-M radar system near Baherove (13km west of Kerch), and a helicopter landing pad, P-18 Terek radar system, and a Baikal-1M anti-aircraft missile control system in unspecified areas of Crimea.

Russian sources, including the Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD), claimed that Russian air defenses, electronic warfare (EW) systems, and small-arms fire downed up to 35 Ukrainian drones near Baherove, Feodosia, Cape Chauda, and over the Sea of Azov but did not say that any Ukrainian drones struck their intended targets. Another group of Russian sources, including Kherson Oblast occupation head Vladimir Saldo, claimed that Russian air defenses downed up to 41 Ukrainian drones over northern Crimea and the Sea of Azov and claimed that Ukrainian forces attempted to strike Russian air defense systems and fuel storage facilities, the ISW report says.

The Institute believes that Ukrainian forces have been conducting an interdiction campaign against Russian military infrastructure in occupied Crimea, primarily Black Sea Fleet assets, since June 2023 to degrade the Russian militarys ability to use Crimea as a staging and rear area for Russian operations in southern Ukraine.
Dubai, Dec 6 : There are many options that are on the negotiation table right now which speak to the phasing out of fossil fuels.

It is for parties to unpick that, and come up with a very clear statement that signals the terminal decline of the fossil fuel era "as we know it".

These were the views of the Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change (UNFCCC), Simon Stiell.

Talking to the media about the assembly of nearly 200 participating nations that have five working days to agree how the world will respond to growing threats -- as laid out in the UN's climate science and policy report card, he said at the "end of next week, we need COP (Conference of Parties) to deliver a bullet train to speed up climate action.

"We currently have an old caboose chugging over rickety tracks. But the tools are all there on the table, the technologies and solutions exist.

"It's time for governments and negotiators to pick them up and put them to work.

"UN Climate Change will be working with parties every step of the way, as the honest broker and convenor. We'll make sure all countries have a seat at the table and can use their full voice."

Negotiators told IANS that the current text is chunky -- too long, too bitty, too many loopholes. Elusive, one might say. A global 'fossil fuel phaseout' target gets a mention (para 35) but the text avoids any kind of timeline, an issue on which the science is clear, said a negotiator.

In Dubai more than ever the reputation of the UNFCCC process is under threat, remarked another negotiator, requesting anonymity.

"An oil-rich host (the UAE) was always a risk, but dubious interpretations of climate science, a UAE hydrocarbons production surge and an influx of big fossil lobbyists has left alarm bells ringing. There are 2,400 fossil-fuel industry representatives here. The next few days will show if that's enough to delay climate action by another crucial year," he told IANS.

The parties (governments), negotiators, business leaders, civic society organisations, among others, gathered here for the annual UN Climate Change Conference or COP for two weeks from November 30 to assess global efforts to advance the key Paris Agreement aim of limiting global warming to as close as possible to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

As the climate crisis worsens around the world, COP28 must be a decisive moment to act on climate commitments and limit global warming.

The governments will take decisions on ways to cut greenhouse gas emissions and on adapting to the impacts of climate change, on Loss and Damage, a fund for vulnerable countries hit hard by natural calamities, and on the means to help countries green their economies and build resilience to climate change through finance, technology and capacity-building.

The UNFCCC Secretary General said: "We can only overcome the climate crisis by ditching business-as-usual.

At Sharm el-Sheikh (COP27) I said we would do things differently. So over the last year, on loss & damage, we opted for an innovative approach - a Transitional Committee - which drove forward progress much faster. "The win on Loss and Damage here in Dubai gave this COP a spring in its step. But it is just a start.

"Now all governments must give their negotiators clear marching orders: we need highest ambition, not point-scoring or lowest common denominator politics."

On the Global Stocktake, Stiell said it is the vehicle to get climate action on track.

"Finance is the great enabler for climate action. The negotiations must put it front and centre.

"Loss and damage was a win, but we're kidding ourselves if we think it's a tick in the box for finance and support at this COP; more is required.

"We need enhanced transparency, and to deliver our promise to fund climate action across the world.

"Let's be honest -- good intentions won't halve emissions this decade or save lives right now. Only serious progress on finance can deliver frontline results.

"We've said we'll double adaptation finance -- now we have to deliver, including on the details, and set ourselves up to go much further.

"We must not lose any focus on the Global Goal for Adaptation."

The UNFCCC boss was categorically clear in reminding the world that eight billion people are on the frontlines.

Right now only 50 countries have National Adaptation Plans.

On the opening of the COP28, summit President Sultan Al Jaber told the assembled delegates that the science has spoken.

"It has confirmed the moment is now to find a new road, a road wide enough for all of us, free of the obstacles and detours of the past. That new road starts with a decision on the Global Stocktake, a decision that is ambitious, corrects course and accelerates action to 2030."

Kicking off two weeks of intense climate negotiations, Al Jaber has used his first official speech as COP President to issue a rallying call to delegates to unite around the agenda and restore faith in multilateralism.

"I pledge that I will run an inclusive and transparent process, one that encourages free and open discussion between all parties," Al Jaber has said.

Saying a total phase-out of fossil fuels are required, Johan Rockstrom, Director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research said: "There is ultimately no other pathway than a full phase out of all fossil fuels."

In response to the debate on whether there is indeed a scientific case for the phaseout of fossil fuel energy, world renowned climate scientists have worked around the clock to come together with a unified statement.

The link between climate science and fossil fuel phase out is indisputable.

"Our partner, The Club of Rome has worked in partnership with Future Earth and World Climate Research Program to convene a statement from scientists in response to comments regarding fossil fuel phaseout pathways." Meanwhile, negotiators are engaged in intense, lengthy discussions to finalize the global stocktake's technical draft. The latest 24-page version, released early on Tuesday, presents a variety of options. Focusing on COO28's key issue -- fossil fuels -- the draft proposes two phase-out approaches. The first suggests an "orderly and just phaseout of fossil fuels," mirroring the stance of the "high ambition coalition", which includes France, Kenya, Colombia and others.

The UNFCCC Secretary General summed up by saying: "We can only overcome the climate crisis by ditching business-as-usual."

(Vishal Gulati can be contacted at gulatiians@gmail.com) --IANS

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Aizawl, Dec 6 : Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) President and Mizoram's Chief Minister-designate Lalduhoma on Wednesday said that he would soon meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to discuss the issues of refugees from Myanmar, Bangladesh and Manipur's displaced people, who sheltered in Mizoram.

So far around 32,000 people from Myanmar have taken shelter in Mizoram after the military took over that country in February 2021 and over 1,000 people from Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh also fled to the northeastern state after the ethnic troubles in the hilly areas.

Besides, around 13,000 men, women and children belonging to the Kuki-Zo community from ethnic violence-hit Manipur also took shelter in Mizoram.

"Our government would try to provide better relief to all the refugees compared to that by the outgoing MNF (Mizo National Front) government," Lalduhoma told the media after meeting Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati at Raj Bhavan and staking claim to form the new government following his party's victory in the November 7 Assembly polls.

He expressed optimism that the Centre would extend its help to the state government to take care of the refugees as it is a humanitarian issue.

The ZPM supremo and his Council of Ministers are likely to take oath on Friday at Raj Bhavan.

"I had telephonic talks with Shah and Jaishankar on Tuesday. I would soon meet both of them in Delhi to discuss how the Centre and the state government can jointly look after the Myanmar and Bangladesh refugees and displaced people from Manipur," the IPS officer-turned-politician said.

He said that Jaishankar (former IFS officer) was his batchmate during his service. The septuagenarian leader said his government would maintain good relations with the Centre and the Governor also assured him that he would provide all support to his government.

He said, "Our government would give priority to agriculture and needs of the farmers. We would undertake some projects and schemes for the development of agriculture and economic benefit of the farmers."

The first session of the new Mizoram Assembly would be convened on December 12. Earlier the Governor handed a letter to Lalduhoma appointing him as the next Chief Minister of Mizoram.

ZPM, formed in 2018, wrested power for the first time in the state by delivering a humiliating defeat to the ruling Mizo National Front (MNF).

The ZPM secured 27 seats in the 40-member Assembly to capture power in mountainous Mizoram, which has been governed either by the Congress or by the MNF since it became the 23rd state of India on February 20, 1987 after the signing of the Peace Accord in 1986.

MNF this time bagged only 10 seats. Meanwhile, the newly-elected MLAs of the ZPM in a meeting on Tuesday night elected Lalduhoma as the legislature party leader. The meeting finalised other matters of government formation.
New Delhi, Dec 6 : In a significant move under the Investor Summit held in February 2023, Q-Line Biotech Pvt. Ltd. (POCT Group) has established a medical equipment manufacturing unit in Lucknow.

This initiative is a stride towards making Uttar Pradesh a self-reliant state, in line with the government's development projects and industrial establishment and operation incentives.

Under the government's ambitious Investor Summit plan, Q-Line Biotech Pvt. Ltd. (POCT Group) has not only set up this unit in Lucknow but also elevated the region to a special position in India's healthcare sector.

The company had pledged an investment of Rs 500 crore during the Investor Summit, of which 200 crore is being invested in the first phase.

In a strategic collaboration with Elitech Group, a thorough inspection and satisfactory verification of the world-class equipment manufacturing industry is being carried out today.

The inauguration of this facility will soon be proposed to the Chief Minister in the upcoming Ground Breaking Ceremony.

Distinguished officials from Elitech Group such as Maurice Verdaasdonk, Vice President BU Clinical Systems; Romain Bergeaud, Vice Presidents International Sales; Jamie Lewis, Project Manager; and Axel Geerts, Project Manager, Production, were present at the inspection ceremony.

The establishment of this manufacturing unit aligns with Chief Minister Adityanath Yogi's vision for a self-reliant India, promising substantial employment opportunities and regional development, thereby significantly aiding the country and the state.

It marks a commendable milestone in the building of a 'New India'. The company remains committed to this cause.
Tel Aviv, Dec 6 : Representatives of the Families and the Hostage Families' Headquarters in a letter to members of the Israeli Security Cabinet said that at least one-third of the hostages suffer from underlying medical conditions that require regular medical care.

The letter said, "We have received solid intelligence that there are hostages whose condition has deteriorated and who are now in immediate danger of life due to untreated injuries or illnesses. We demand that you take urgent action, using your initiative and creativity, to reach a deal for the immediate release of all the hostages."

The letter includes expert testimony provided by Hagai Levine, Head of the medical team at the Hostage Families Headquarters.

His testimony is based on first-hand accounts given to cabinet members on Tuesday by some of the released hostages regarding the condition of those still in captivity.

The lack of proper treatment for these conditions poses, in many cases, an immediate mortal danger, and in other cases a risk of irreversible complications such as stroke or heart attack, the letter sent by the families asked.

Many hostages suffer from injuries sustained during or after the abduction, including gunshot wounds, loss of limbs, shrapnel wounds, among others.

The letter said, "Untreated injuries pose a mortal danger, risk of complications and permanent disability, acute and chronic pain, and inhuman suffering."

"Some have undergone inhuman atrocities. Many have not received proper medical care for their condition."

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum in the letter said, "We have received solid intelligence that there are hostages whose condition has deteriorated and who are now in immediate mortal danger due to untreated injuries or illnesses. The lack of care endangers their lives, and it appears some hostages have already paid for it with their lives."

The letter also added that some of the hostages underwent torture and physical and/or mental abuse. Isolation from the outside world and that this endangers their physical and mental health.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum in the letter also said: "Based on the released hostages, it was learned that some were criminally neglected with harm to human dignity."

In concluding the letter, family members of the hostages said: "Based on this data, we demand that you take urgent action, using your initiative and creativity, to reach a deal for the immediate release of all the hostages. For them, every additional day in captivity is a real danger to their lives. It is your responsibility to bring everyone home safe and sound!"
Kolkata, Dec 6 : A single-judge bench of the Calcutta High Court on Wednesday stayed a libel-suit filed against the Leader of Opposition (LoP) Suvendu Adhikari by the state Public Health Engineering Department Minister Pulak Ray.

The bench of Justice Shampa Sarkar also directed the LoP to send a notice to the minister informing him about a stay on the hearing in the libel-suit filed at a district court in Howrah district.

Recently, Adhikari accused Roy and his department of irregularities in purchase of drinking water ferrules under the centrally-sponsored Jal Jeevan Mission, a project aiming to provide safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections by 2024 to all households in rural India.

Ray filed a libel-suit at the sub-division court at Uluberia in Howrah district against the LoP challenging the allegations made by him. Adhikari in turn approached the Calcutta High Court against that libel-suit filed at the district court.

The matter will come up again for hearing at the Calcutta High Court on January 11.

Adhikari had earlier alleged that the water ferrules were under the Jal Jeevan Mission by the Public Health Engineering Department at Rs 570, which is over double the existing market price of Rs 218.

He alleged that there had been irregularities to the tune of Rs 500 crore in that Rs 1,086 crore project.

After he floated the allegations first Roy had first sent a legal notice to Adhikari and then filed a libel-suit.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Dec 6 : The Delhi Government's Directorate of Education has issued a circular regarding the rescheduled winter vacation for the academic session 2023-2024 from January 1 to January 6, 2024.

Initially the schools were supposed to remain closed from January 1 to January 15, 2024, but as they were forced to close from November 9 to 18 due to poor air quality in the national Capital, the winter vacation has now been truncated.

"The Winter Vacation for the Academic Session 2023-24 was earlier scheduled to be observed from January 1, 2024 (Monday) to January 15, 2024 (Monday). However, in order to ensure that our students are not adversely affected by the poor air quality in Delhi, a portion of Winter Vacation was observed from November 9, 2023 to November 18, 2023," read the circular issued on Wednesday.

"In view of the above, the remaining portion of the Winter Vacation for Academic Session 2023-2024 is scheduled to be observed from January 1, 2024 (Monday) to January 6, 2024 (Saturday)," it said.

"All the Heads of Schools of Delhi are hereby directed to disseminate this information among all the stakeholders including the Teaching/ Non-Teaching Staff, Students and Parents through SMC Members/ Mass SMS facility/ Phone Calls/ Other suitable means of communication," it said.

"The rest of the contents of the aforementioned circular dated January 27, 2023 will remain the same. This is issued with the approval of the Director (Education)," it added.
Chandigarh/Mumbai, Dec 6 : In a fresh twist, the Punjab Police have arrested Shailesh Mehta - the father of absconding Mumbai scamsters Ashesh Mehta and his wife Shivangi Lad-Mehta - in a new fraud case registered by the SAS Nagar Police, an official said on Wednesday.

According to Sohana Police (formerly, Mohali) official Mukesh Sinha, the accused Shailesh Mehta, 71, was nabbed from his purported hideout at an old-age home in Ahmedabad following a FIR registered after a complaint lodged by Punjab businessman Viresh Singhal.

"We have arrested the accused (Shailesh Mehta) last Saturday and brought him to Punjab. A local Magistrate has remanded him to police custody for four days and further investigations are on," Sinha told IANS.

Incidentally, the Mehta family is now under the radar of the police of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and now Punjab, with the possibility of more complaints of cheating of investors surfacing from other parts of the country, official sources in Mumbai said.

Singhal, 78, had lodged a complaint of cheating against Shailesh Mehta and his son Ashesh Mehta (who is untraceable along with his wife Shivangi, since over six months from Mumbai), by luring him to invest Rs 1.20 crore in their 'Bliss Consultants Trading Co' in the past three years, on the promise of huge profits.

However, when Singhal wanted to exit from the company last June, he encountered serious problems withdrawing his investments plus profits, and later the accused were not available.

Suspecting something fishy, Singhal finally lodged a complaint with Sohana Police in November, which sent a team to Mumbai for probe but returned empty-handed, and subsequently traced the accused in Ahmedabad.

Ruling Shiv Sena Spokesperson Krishna Hegde said in Mumbai that the Mehtas' (above) company has allegedly cheated more than 4,000 gullible investors of thousands of crores of rupees in the past few years, and then Ashesh and Shivangi Mehta fled from Mumbai.

"I had complained to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in July and he ordered a detailed probe into the matter. In September, the Mumbai Police have frozen five residential properties and 11 bank accounts of the fugitive couple and their companies, totalling an estimated Rs 175 crore," Hegde told IANS.

He rued that though the Mumbai Police seemed to have done nothing in the matter, the Punjab Police has managed to nab one of the family members of the accused Mehta couple.

The lid blew off the scam a" which was prominently highlighted by IANS in June-July a" after suspicious withdrawals-transfers of huge amounts of around Rs 180 crore to multiple accounts of the scamster couple's associates or other entities, all of which are being probed. The Shivpuri Police Station in Madhya Pradesh, stumbled onto the scam they were probing a narcotics case there linked with the Mehta couple, and other frauds of money-laundering, illegal ponzi schemes, gypping investors and common masses tumbled out, estimated to be over Rs 1,000-crore.

Police teams from Mumbai, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab have done multiple rounds of the Mehta couple's home in a posh society in Goregaon where they were last seen over six months ago.

In July, both Mumbai and Madhya Pradesh Police had issued Look Out Circulars against the couple but they remain untraced and investigators apprehend the duo may have sneaked out of the country to an unknown location.

(Quaid Najmi can be contacted at: q.najmi@ians.in)

--IANS

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Ahmedabad, Dec 6 : Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Wednesday said that UNESCO has included Gujarat's Garba dance in its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity.

An official statement said that the decision was taken during the 18th meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, in Kasane, Botswana.

It said that Garba dance is deeply rooted in ritualistic and devotional traditions, drawing participants from all walks of life.

"It continues to thrive as a vibrant living tradition, bringing communities together," the statement added.

It said that the inclusion of Garba in UNESCO list comes from the provisions outlined in the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Garba now stands as the 15th ICH element from India to be accorded this status.

Garba is a traditional dance form of the Gujarat state and is famous for the Navratri festival.
Gadchiroli : , Dec 6 (IANS) In a major catch, the Maharashtra Police have nabbed a dreaded Maoist carrying a Rs 200,000-award on his scalp from the forests near Bijapur in Chhattisgarh, officials said here on Wednesday.

The arrest followed a tip-off that a hardcore Maoist, Mahendra K. Veladi, 32, was moving around suspiciously near the Indravati River and appeared on a recce mission to carry out some terror strikes, said Gadchiroli Superintendent of Police, Neelotpal.

On getting the alert, the Gadchiroli Police immediately launched the Anti-Naxal Operation squad with C60 commandos, the CRPF and local police and they successfully trapped and caught Veladi.

During interrogation, he admitted that he was keeping a watch on police outposts in Damranch and Mennerajam and planned to pass on the intel to the Aheri Maoist units for targeting them in future operations.

The accused also revealed that he was part of an incident of robbery, assault and arson on forest officials in early 2023 between Kapewancha and Nainer forest region.

Veladi started his extremist career in 2009 as a logistics and supply team worker and stood on guard duty when Moaist leaders visited the Cherpalli forests.

Later he joined the Cherpalli Revolutionary Peoples Council of the banned CPI(Maoist) in the Bijapur forests and worked with various units.

He was wanted for two encounters in December 2017 and December 2022 during a joint operation of the Gadchiroli and Bijapur Police in the Tekametta forests, plus an incident of arson this year when he and others ambushed a team of forest officers and set afire their vehicle.

In May 2023, he was involved in the murder of a civilian and the Maharashtra government had announced a reward of Rs 2 lakh for his capture.

Neelotpal said that in the past 24 months, the Gadchiroli Police have nabbed a total of 72 wanted and much-feared Maoists and security operations are still continuing in the red-infested regions.
Public sector banks wrote off loans worth Rs 3.66 lakh crore in last three fiscal years. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Dec 6 : Public sector banks wrote off a whopping Rs 3.66 lakh crore loans in the last three financial years, according to RBI data.

At the same time, these banks recovered just Rs 1.9 lakh crore during this period, the data obtained by Moneycontrol.com through RTI showed.

The Ministry of Finance informed the Lok Sabha on Monday that in the last five years, scheduled commercial banks (SCBs) wrote off nearly Rs 10.6 lakh crore with nearly half of these loans being given to to large industries and the services sector.

"A total of Rs 2.09 lakh crore worth of loans were written off by banks in 2020-23, out of which 52.3 percent was linked to large industries and services," Minister of State for Finance Bhagwat Karad said in response to a question in the Lok Sabha.

Public sector banks have been slow in recovering bad loans despite the RBI directing them to expedite the process.

In 2022-23, SBI, the country's largest bank, wrote off loans worth Rs 24,061 crore, while its recoveries were only Rs 13,024 crore. Similarly, Bank of Baroda wrote off Rs 17,998 crore while its total recovery stood at a mere Rs 6,294 crore, according to the RTI data.

Canara Bank, appears to be an exception with a total loan recovery of Rs 11,919 crore exceeding the amount of Rs 4,472 crore worth loans that were written off in 2022-23.
War criminal from the terrorist organization "Luhansk People's Republic" ("LPR") Oleg Popov was killed as a result of a car explosion, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) is involved in his liquidation, an informed law enforcement source has told Interfax-Ukraine on Wednesday.

"Today, a car with a deputy of the 'People's Council of the LPR' and war criminal Oleg Popov went off in temporarily occupied Luhansk. At first, the propagandists reported that he sustained serious injuries and later they admitted that the occupiers' perpetrator has become a cargo 200," the source said.

The source also said that "this liquidation is the work of the SBU."

"It was a completely legal target as before his deputy career Popov had been leading numerous Russian voluntary battalions, heading illegal armed groups and killing Ukrainians. In addition, this character chaired the state security and defense committee at the so-called 'People's Council of the LPR'," the source said.
Thane : , Dec 6 (IANS) In a freak accident, a worker on a bridge of the Thane Metro section fell to his death near the RTO Office near Wagle Estate here on Wednesday evening, officials said.

He was identified as Dhananjay Gopal Chauhan, 30, living in Kolshet, but hailing from Uttar Pradesh, said an official of Wagle Estate police station.

According to locals and eyewitnesses, around 4.30 pm, Chauhan, who was working on the metro bridge above, suddenly fell down and was lying in a pool of blood beside the busy road. He was rushed in an ambulance to the nearby District Government Hospital, but pronounced dead on admission, said the police.

An official said the police have registered an accidental death report, and are investigating the cause of death, whether he was wearing any safety gear or had any health issues, etc.
Jaipur : Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena supporters burn tyres during a protest over the killing of their leader Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi. Image Source: IANS News

Jaipur, Dec 6 : Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra on Wednesday spoke to Home Minister Amit Shah over phone about the situation arising out of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena President Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi's murder.

The Raj Bhavan officials said that the Governor gave Shah detailed information about law and order in the state.

Gogamedi was killed on Tuesday after assailants entered his house in broad daylight and opened fire killing him on spot.
Nagpur : , Dec 6 (IANS) Home Minister Amit Shah will pay a two-day visit to Maharashtra where he is scheduled to inaugurate a steel project in Gadchiroli and the state's biggest job fair in Nagpur on December 9, officials said on Wednesday.

Nagpur (Maharashtra), Dec 6 (IANS) Home Minister Amit Shah will pay a two-day visit to Maharashtra where he is scheduled to inaugurate a steel project in Gadchiroli and the stateas biggest job fair in Nagpur on December 9, officials said on Wednesday.

Reaching here late on Friday, Shah will fly down to Gadchiroli the next morning to inaugurate a direct reduced iron plan of Lloyds Metals & Energy Ltd, which will be the first big project coming up in the Maoist hinterland.

He is also likely to perform the ground-breaking ceremony of other LMEL projects as part of the companyas Rs 20,000-crore integrated steel manufacturing unit in Kondseri on a 1000-acre complex.

The LMEL plans to set up units to make cold and hot rolled steel pellets, a slurry pipeline network to transport iron ore from its mines around 100 kms away, build a hospital and set up a garment training institute which is intended to boost the Gadchiroli economy.

Later in the day, Shah will inaugurate a Job Fair at the Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University campus where over 300 companies are expected to give more than 21,000 jobs to youth in different sectors, officials said.

Tight security arrangements are being made for Shahas visit which is coinciding with the Winter Session of Maharashtra Legislature starting here from December 7.
Hyderabad, Dec 6 : Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) supremo K Chandrashekar Rao on Wednesday made his first public appearance since losing power to the Congress party in Telangana.

He came out of his farmhouse at Erravalli to greet a large number of people from his native village in Chintamadaka in Siddipet district.

The people raised slogans of aCM KCRa as soon as he emerged from his house.

The outgoing Chief Minister was seen greeting people with folded hands. KCRas nephew and BRS MLA from Siddipet, T Harish Rao was also present.

KCR had visited Chintamadaka in Siddipet constituency on November 30 to cast his vote. The results were declared on December 3. The Congress party wrested power from BRS by bagging 64 seats in the 119-member Assembly. BRS could win 39 seats. On December 4, KCR met party MLAs and top leaders at his farmhouse.
Hubballi/Belagavi, : Dec 6 (IANS) Reacting to allegations that a Muslim preacher with IS connections was seated beside Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Muslim religious leader Sayyad Tajuddin Qadri clarified on Wednesday that there were no individuals with IS connections at the event.

Qadri, who is associated with Basha Peer Dargah in Hubballi where the convention of South India Muslim religious leaders was organised on December 4, stated that BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal is making false allegations.

He explained that more than 150 Sufi seers were invited for the convention, and none of them have IS connections. According to the directions of the police department, 25 religious leaders were allowed to sit on the dais, and all relevant information about them was provided to the police department and district authorities.

Qadri challenged anyone claiming IS connections to specify names, asserting that if there were such connections the Intelligence agencies should have the information. MLA Yatnal is now urged to declare who had IS connections.

Qadri stated, "We are ready for all investigations and request the government to conduct the probe appropriately."

Former Minister and in-charge of the event, AM Hindasageri, criticised Yatnal, stating that he is speaking like a person with an unstable mind. Hindasageri expressed surprise at the statement, emphasising the significance of the issue, as all government representatives had attended the event.

He stated that Yatnal's mental state seems unstable, and he appears to be attacking his own party.

Meanwhile, Yatnal has shot a letter to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah by naming the religious leader with IS connections and demanded a thorough investigation against him.

The letter read, "I would like to bring to your attention the concerning incident where Siddaramaiah, the Chief Minister of Karnataka, shared the stage with Tanveer Peera, a known sympathiser of the terror organisation ISIS. It has come to my knowledge that Peera has previously met with the radical Islamic outfit leaders in Middle Eastern countries. What is even more alarming is that this is not the first time Peera has met with the CM; they have had multiple encounters in the past. I have received credible information suggesting that Peera is bringing funds from Muslim countries with the intention of creating unrest in our nation.

"It is truly unfortunate that the CM either disregarded the advice of his personal security and Intelligence or deliberately chose to meet Peera in order to further his own political agenda. It is a matter of great shame that individuals with sympathy towards terrorism are able to meet with high ranking political leaders, especially in the presence of the media and citizens.

"I firmly believe that it is in the best interest of our country to have Peera thoroughly investigated by central agencies, as I suspect that the local police are colluding with the state administration to avoid taking any action against him."
New Delhi, Dec 6 : The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data for the year 2022 has shown a significant surge in juvenile's involvement in criminal activities in Delhi with a staggering 2,430 criminal cases, marking a stark contrast to the statistics of 19 other major metropolitan cities across India.

Among the reported cases, 92 were classified as murders, while 154 were attempts to commit murder.

The gravity of the situation is further emphasised by 86 cases of rape, 68 cases of outraging the modesty of women, 22 cases of kidnapping and abduction, 286 cases related to causing harm, 862 cases of theft, 235 cases of robberies, and 24 cases of rash driving involving juveniles in the national capital.

Delhi takes the lead in this alarming trend, with Chennai trailing behind at 521 juvenile-involved criminal cases in 2022. Ahmedabad recorded 433 cases, Mumbai 363, Hyderabad 300, Pune 278, Indore 211, Nagpur 210, Jaipur 205, and Surat 137, as per the NCRB data.

Kolkata, however, stands in stark contrast with only nine reported juvenile-involved criminal cases in 2022.

These figures point towards a disturbing trend, raising concerns about the role of various factors contributing to juvenile delinquency in different regions across the country.

Comparing the data to previous years, the NCRB noted a decrease in juvenile crime from 2,643 cases in 2021 to 2,430 cases in 2022 in Delhi.

Recently, the national capital was shaken after a 17-year-old was stabbed over 70 times by a 16-year-old juvenile during a street robbery of Rs 350.

The accused minor shared videos on his social media account, displaying knives, firearms, and footage of himself within court premises portraying a criminal image, possibly fostering a misguided sense of pride.

"Bhai hai apna jail mein 302 mein andar (He's our brother, locked up on a murder charge in Section 302)," read a caption beneath a video posted by the accused juvenile on his Instagram account, in which a woman was speaking to media persons about her brother's murder.

The entire killing incident was recorded on CCTV camera. In the CCTV footage, the accused minor could be seen dragging the body into a narrow lane and repeatedly stabbing the victim in the neck to ensure his death. He also kicks the lifeless body on the head multiple times.

The disturbing scene concludes with the assailant standing over the body and engaging in a macabre dance.

The incident took place at Janta Mazdoor Colony in North-East Delhi's Welcome area.
New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks in the Lok Sabha during the Winter session of Parliament. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Dec 6 : Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said that the two bills on Jammu and Kashmir seek to nominate two Kashmiri Migrant community members, including a woman, to the assembly.

He made the announcement while speaking in the Lok Sabha during a debate on the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2023 and the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Amendment) Bill, 2023.

He said that one seat in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly will be set aside for people displaced from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

He also said that more than 45,000 people have lost their lives due to terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir so far.

The Home Minister said that the government's focus was on ending the terror ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.

He said a plan to have "zero terror incidents" in Jammu and Kashmir is in force for three years and it will be successful by 2026.

"I believe Modi government will return to power in 2024 and by 2026, I hope there will be no terror incident in Jammu and Kashmir," Shah said.

He also said that 24 seats in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly had been reserved for Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) as they belong to India.

"Jammu had 37 seats but now it has 43. Meanwhile, Kashmir, which had 46 seats, now has 47," he said.

He said that since we believe PoK is ours we have reserved 24 seats for PoK.

He said that now earlier there were 107 seats, now J&K will have 114 seats in J&K assembly. Earlier there were two nominated member and now there will be five nominated members.

"When they (Kashmiri Pandits) were displaced, they were forced to live as refugees in their country. Around 46,631 families were displaced in their own country. This Bill is to get them rights. This Bill is to give them representation," he said.

Shah said that the bills aimed at delivering justice to people who had been deprived for the past 70 years. Notably, one of two bills on Jammu and Kashmir seeks to nominate two Kashmiri migrant community members, including a woman, to the assembly.

He also said that this has been possible because on August 5 and 6 historic bills to revoke Article 370 and the delimitation was part of it.

He said that after the revocation of Article 370 revoked, many people questioned that the terrorism has not ended.

Shah said the two bills will give "justice" to those deprived of their rights for the last 70 years and asserted that reservation to the displaced people will give them a voice in the legislature.

He said that had terrorism been tackled at the beginning without considering vote-bank politics, Kashmiri Pandits would not have had to leave Kashmir Valley.

He said one of the bills seeks to give "representation in the assembly to those who had to leave Kashmir due to terrorism".

Shah also slammed the Congress for talking about backward classes, saying that if any party has harmed backward classes and come in the way of their growth, it is the Congress.

He said Narendra Modi was born into a poor family and became the prime minister and he knows the pain of the backward classes and the poor.

The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill were passed by the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
Is BJP's landslide win in Madhya Pradesh polls end of 'one man show' in state?. Image Source: IANS News

Bhopal, Dec 6 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has registered a thumping victory in the recently concluded Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls by winning 163 of 230 seats, retaining power in the state and handing the opposition Congress a massive defeat.

The results, according to political analysts, have also led to a debate in the state's political circles, with many wondering if this is the end of the "one man show" in the state? So far, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has been seen as arguably the most prominent face of the BJP in the central Indian state, with "Mamaji" -- as the CM is also popularly known -- leading the party from the front since the last one-and-a-half decade.

This time, however, many have been left wondering if Chouhan would be handed the chief ministerial post for the fifth time. Also, it is yet to be learned if a new face will replace Chouhan as CM along with two deputies for the fresh face.

According to political analysts, the 'one man show' in Madhya Pradesh seems to have ended, as several BJP heavyweights who were earlier either sidelined or not seen much involved in Madhya Pradesh politics, have now made a "comeback". And the list is long.

Even as everyone in the state's political corridors acknowledges Chouhan's leadership skills and credits him with the BJP's success, this time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also pitched in several leaders who have considerable influence in the state's politics.

These leaders also include Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, and senior BJP member Kailash Vijayvargiya.

With PM Modi's move working wonders for the party, the 'one man show' is likely to end this time.

Two Union Ministers a" Narendra Singh Tomar and Prahlad Singh Patel, who have won the Assembly elections, resigned from their Lok Sabha membership on Wednesday.

Other BJP Lok Sabha MPs, who won the Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, including former state BJP president Rakesh Singh, have also resigned from Parliament.

If sources are to be believed, Tomar and Patel have put themselves strongly in as the replacement of the incumbent Chief Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

BJP's national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya, who won the Assembly election from Indore-1, and is considered a prominent "political competitior" of Chouhan, is also said to be in the CM race.

Vijayvargiya is an established saffron party leader in Malwa-Nimar region of Madhya Pradesh, and he enjoys a strong bond with the BJP's second most powerful leader a" Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Once, he also used to be seen as the "prime challenger" to CM Chouhan's "one-man show politics".

Besides, Madhya Pradesh unit BJP president V.D. Sharma also seems to be not far behind in taking credit for the landslide victory.

At the same time, CM Chouhan is leaving no opportunity to claim that his flagship a" "Ladli Behna Yojana" has been a game-changer.

Sharma, on the other hand, claimed he has strengthened the root-level cadre of the party in the last two-and-half-years.

Sharma, an MP from Khajuraho constituency, took over charge as the state president in February 2020.

His growing influence in politics has been one of the key reasons for the "rift" between him and CM Chouhan.

Sharma has apparently been trying to make his efforts recognised by the party's central leadership.

Meanwhile, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, who switched to the BJP from the Congress in March 2020, has got a much-needed relief as the saffron party won 18 seats in his turf Gwalior-Chambal region this time, up from 7 in 2018.

With him, the Congress in 2018 won 26 out of 36 seats in the region, and without him in the camp in 2023, managed to secure only 16 seats.

The political circles have already been listening to speculations about Scinida taking over command in Madhya Pradesh. A similar murmur is being heard again, though with some 'if' and 'but'.
New Delhi: Special session of Parliament in the new Parliament building. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Dec 6 : Congress leader in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Wednesday took a swipe at the government saying that when it comes to the Kashmir issue, BJP leaders unnecessarily criticise first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.

He demanded a day-long discussion specifically on Nehru's role in Kashmir.

Participating in the debate on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, Chowdhury said that whenever a discussion takes place in the Parliament, the BJP members bring the role of Nehru and always claim the first prime minister was "desh ke liye hanikarak (harmful for the country)".

Responding to this, Home Minister Amit Shah said he is ready for the discussion.

Shah also said that he never said Nehru was "haanikarak (harmful)" for the country and always said that he only asks what was the root cause of Kashmir problem and the role of the people at that time should be discussed.

"Nobody from our benches states that he was haanikarak (harmful)," Shah said.

Chowdhury also referred to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's famous lines of 'Insaniyat, Kashmiriyat and Jamhuriat' and asked the BJP leaders if they were following it.

Chowdhury said that the Congress leaders were tired of listening to this kind of criticism and stressed that he was verbally demanding that a debate be held on Kashmir and Nehru.

He also said that Shah had promised to bring peace in Kashmir but he failed to fulfill his promise.

Chowdhury said that Hari Singh signed standstill agreement with Pakistan, which Nehru and India never accepted.

The Congress MP also listed various terror incidents during the Modi government's tenure to claim that terrorism was on the rise there.

Talking about the Pulwama attack in 2019, the Congress leader said it was the deadliest attack in three decades and it was avoidable as our 40 personnel died.

"It happened due to the government's incompetency, according to former Governor Satya Pal Malik," Chowdhury said.

He also said that by the forum of Human Rights in J&K between 2019 and 2022, 71 CRPF troops lost their lives doubling the toll.

He said that between April 2023 and November 2023, a total of 23 army and security personnel have lost their lives.

On August 9, the MHA reported to Rajya Sabha that between 2018 to 2020 Jammu and Kashmir experienced 761 terrorist incidents which resulted in 174 civilian deaths.

He also said that highest number of attacks took place in 2018. He also said that as per reply in Rajya Sabha 99 security personnel in J&K between August 2019 and April 2022. In the preceding five years 460 security personnel were killed.

He also said that after the abrogation of Article 370 as per a RTI report the number of terror incident has increased, increasing from 151 incidents in 2014 to 191 incident till August 2022. "Now tell me if I am wrong," he said referring to the number of more incidents from 2014 to 2022.

Meanwhile, Congress MP Manish Tewari also said that validating the assertion that he made yesterday during the debate on the Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill 2019 that the strategy to abrogate Article 370.

"The State of Jammu & Kashmir into two Union Territories was laid in December 2018 when the Presidential notification of December 19, 2018 imposing Presidents rule in Jammu and Kashmir suspended the second proviso to Article 3 of the Constitution of India that mandates that before reorganising a state the Legislative Assembly of that State has to be mandatorily consulted," he said.

Tewari alleged that "this was never done".

The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill were passed by the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.

--IANS

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Nagpur, Dec 5 : Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday said that the government is sincere and committed to give reservation to Maratha community without doing any injustice to OBC.

He said that the reservation is a process and it will be within the legal framework.

"In the previous regime, State Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had tried but the SC did not agree and the last government made few efforts to convince the apex court," the Chief Minister told media persons on eve of commencement of Maharashtra Winter Session.

He also dismissed the allegation of the combined opposition of indulging in the conflict between Maratha and OBC.

The Chief Minister while defending the redevelopment project of Asia's biggest slum, Dharavi, said that there is no truth to the allegation of favouring someone in the project.

The Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis who was also present said that the UBT government was hell bent upon scrapping the number of projects.

"They opposed Naner Refinery and Aarey projects," the Deputy Chief Minister said.

Listing the achievements of his government, the Chief Minister said that the response to the 'Government at your Doorstep' is a big success.

"On Tuesday, in Beed district, about 70 to 80,000 people attended the event and the beneficiaries were happy as their issues were addressed," the Chief Minister said.

Earlier, the opposition leaders Vijay Wadettiwar and Ambadas Danve criticised the government's 'at your doorstep' programme.

They alleged that it has merely turned in to an event and government was not serious in solving the farmer issues.
Eight more children, who had been illegally deported to Russia, have returned to Ukraine on Saint Nicholas Day, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak has said.

"Today, on Saint Nicholas Day, we are returning eight children home," he said on the Telegram channel on Wednesday.

"Joint efforts can work pre-Christmas miracles  four girls and four boys, 8 to 18, will reunite with their families very soon and celebrate holidays in the embrace of their loved ones in their Motherland. Effective cooperation between the Office team and Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights Dmytro Lubinets within the framework of the Ukrainian President's action plan Bring Kids Back UA," Yermak said.

He also thanked "Qatar and UNICEF for their engagement into the process of returning deported children and those who found themselves in the temporarily occupied territory."
Jammu, Dec 6 : Two terrorist associates were apprehended on Wednesday after the army and the police, in a joint operation, busted a terror module at Budhal in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district on Wednesday, police said.

Arms and ammunition including a pistol and two hand grenades were recovered from the two.

"In a relentless intelligence-based joint operation by Indian Army and JKP, South of Pir Panjal Ranges in Budhal area on 06 Dec 2023, led to the apprehension of two hardcore terrorist associates alongwith one pistol, two magazines, 28 rounds, two hand grenades and other war like stores," the army said.
New Delhi, Dec 6 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) which has emerged victorious in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan in the recently concluded Assembly polls is likely to introduce fresh faces for the post of Chief Minister in these three states, a source said on Wednesday.

BJP President JP Nadda met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah at the PM's official residence here on Tuesday evening to discuss the chief ministerial probables for the three states.

The meeting, according to sources, lasted over 4 hours. It was decided during the meeting to introduce young leaders as chief ministers who have the potential of being seen as the 'face of the party' for the next 20-25 years.

Sources said that keeping this particular point in mind, it was decided that Parliamentarians and Union Ministers would resign and get actively involved in state politics.

On high command's direction, parliamentarians from Madhya Pradesh like Prahlad Patel, Narendra Singh Tomar, Rao Uday Pratap, Rakesh Singh and Riti Pathak resigned on Wednesday from Lok Sabha membership.

Both Patel and Tomar are ministers in the PM Modi-led Cabinet, and they are likely to resign as ministers soon, a source said. The two Ministers are also being counted among the prime contenders for the post of Chief Minister.

Besides, Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore and Diya Kumar -- both from Rajasthan, have resigned as Lok Sabha member.

Another BJP leader from Rajasthan, Kirodi Lal Meena, who won Assembly polls in the desert state, has resigned as a Rajya Sabha member.

Two other MPs -- Baba Balaknath and Renuka Singh -- are also expected to resign as parliamentarians soon. Singh is also a Union Minister, and she is likely to resign from the Union Cabinet.

Arun Sao and Gomati Sai, two MPs from Chhattisarh -- another state where the BJP registered victory and wrested power from the Congress, also resigned from the Parliament's Lower House on Wednesday.

A total of 21 MPs were fielded in the three states -- Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan, by the BJP. Of them, 12 emerged victorious.

Among fresh faces, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia's name is one of the most discussed one, a source said.

If incumbent Shivraj Singh Chouhan is not given the CM post for the fifth time, the BJP is likely to be one of the leaders among Scindia, Tomar, Patel and Kailash Vijayvargiya.

In Rajasthan, the BJP is likely to introduce a new face as CM instead of senior party leader Vasundhara Raje.

Diya Kumari, who is also from a royal family like Raje, might be among the contenders for the CM post considering she is younger, and also has the prospect of becoming another CM, sources said.

Besides, Baba Balaknath, a Hindutva face, could also emerge as a CM face, on the lines of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Also, Union ministers Arjun Ram Meghwal and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, senior BJP leader Kirodi Lal Meena and Rajasthan unit BJP chief CP Joshi are also among the CM contenders.

Meanwhile, in Chhattisgarh, tribal faces of the state -- Union Minister Renuka Singh, former state unit president Vishnudev Sai, and current state president Arun Sao, and former IAS officer OP Chaudhary, are being considered as CM probables.

According to sources, the high command is likely to appoint a Chief Minister along with Deputy Chief Ministers in the three states.

The BJP would soon finalise the names and a final decision would be taken at the BJP Parliamentary Board meeting following which the party would announce the Chief Ministers' names.
Jaipur : Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena supporters burn tyres during a protest over the killing of their leader Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi. Image Source: IANS News

Jaipur, Dec 6 : The deadlock over the demands of protesters following the murder of Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena President Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi in Jaipur was yet to be resolved on Wednesday.

Earlier, it was being claimed that the demands had been agreed upon and soon an announcement would be made to end the strike.

But, Gogamedi's wife has announced to continue the protest until her demands are met.

On Tuesday, two assailants entered Gogamedi's house in Shyam Nagar area of Jaipur and opened fire at him. He was taken to the Metro Mass Hospital in Mansarovar where he was declared dead.

His supporters have been sitting on strike since Tuesday demanding the arrest of the accused.

On Wednesday evening, Gogamedi's wife Shila Shekhawat, in an address at the protest site, said: "I have a demand that the protest will continue until the accused are brought before us."

Turning emotional, she said: "Sukhdev Singh has done every work with full commitment and now this demand of mine also has to be fulfilled with the same level of determination."

After this, the protesters sat on a dharna outside the hospital demanding the arrest of the accused.

In view of the situation in the state, Governor Kalraj Mishra called the Chief Secretary, the Home Secretary, DGP, and the Jaipur Police Commissioner to Raj Bhavan and conducted a special review of the law and order situation in the state.

The demands which have been agreed in discussion between the delegation of the protesters and the administration include the case to be recommended for investigation by NIA, in order to expose the role of responsible officers in not providing police security to Gogamedi despite continuous threats, a judicial inquiry to be conducted by a retired judge of the High Court and action will be taken against the guilty officer on the basis of the investigation report.

After investigation, the trial of the case will be conducted by fast track court, while a departmental inquiry will be conducted regarding negligence before and after the incident.

During this departmental inquiry, the police station officer and the personnel posted in the beat will be transferred to the police line, Jaipur.

A recommendation will be made to the state government to provide financial assistance to the family of Gogamedi and to provide them a government job.

A recommendation will be made to the state government to provide financial assistance to the family members of Ajit Singh who was injured in the incident.

Gogamedi's family members will be provided high security by the Police Commissionerate in Jaipur and the District Police in Hanumangarh district, a weapons license to his family members living in Jaipur and Hanumangarh will be approved within 10 days of application, and all the witnesses of the case will be provided security from Jaipur Commissionerate or the district concerned.

It was also decided that as many persons of Rajput society are the target of the gang that murdered Gogamedi, their threat situation will be assessed within 7 days and security will be provided to them.
Imphal, Dec 6 : Amidst the ongoing ethnic violence, the Manipur government's decision to legalise the sale and consumption of liquor in the state has drawn sharp reactions from anti-liquor organisations, including the Coalition Against Drugs and Alcohol (CADA) and All Manipur Women's Social Reformation and Development Samaj (Nupi Samaj).

Officials on Wednesday said that with the legalisation of sale and consumption of liquor, the state government is expecting an annual revenue of around Rs 600-700 crore.

The Manipur government had enacted the Manipur Liquor Prohibition Act' in 1991 but partially lifted the prohibition last year and also exempted the restriction for scheduled caste and scheduled tribe communities for brewing liquor during their traditional activities and customary practices.

While the Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC), the apex body of the Indian alcoholic beverages industry, has welcomed the Manipur government's move to lift the ban on liquor, Nupi Samaj President Th Ramani on Wednesday said that while the people of Manipur are mourning the loss of many lives due to the ongoing ethnic unrest, the state government is giving its attention about the production of liquor.

The Manipur Cabinet on Monday decided to legalise liquor in the state and amend the Manipur Excise Rules after the state Finance Department proposed to legalise production, manufacture, possession, export and import, transport, purchase, sale and consumption of liquor, officials said.

Last year the Manipur government issued a public notice seeking views on the state government's decision for partial lift of prohibition from the state from all civil society organisations, NGOs, and individuals.

In October last year, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh had said that the government would come up with a white paper on liquor legalisation in the state. The state cabinet had earlier decided to partially lift the three-decade old prohibition on liquor consumption. Manipur became a dry state in 1991 following pressure from different groups. In the 1980s, women vigilantes were posted in the street to prevent men from alcoholism and substance abuse.

Even militant outfits have banned sale and consumption of liquor.

The Manipur Peoples Party led government headed by Chief Minister R.K. Ranbir Singh passed the Liquor Prohibition Act of 1991 and officially declared Manipur a "dry state" with the exemption granted to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities to brew liquor for traditional purposes. Liquor was sold in the grey market and foreign liquor was smuggled into Manipur from Myanmar. In 2002, the then Congress government headed by Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh lifted prohibition in the five hill districts -- Chandel, Churachandpur, Senapati, Tamenglong and Ukhrul districts.

In the run up to Assembly polls last year, Biren Singh had said the state government would introduce Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) shops if the BJP returns to power.

--IANS

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Patna, Dec 6 : A total of 30 newly-appointed Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) teachers belonging to Uttar Pradesh have submitted their resignations to the District Education Officer (DEO) in Samastipur in the last 24 hours.

The DEO of Samastipur has not accepted their resignation so far. However, he has passed on the information about the same to the Department of Education.

Besides Samastipur, 17 teachers from Muzaffarpur, 4 from Begusarai, and one from Madhubani also resigned in the last 24 hours.

An Education Department official said that different teachers have different reasons for resignation but the majority of them pointed out that their postings are in remote villages. Some of them also mentioned other reasons like getting other jobs.

According to a department source, over 100 successful BPSC teachers have handed in their resignations after posting in remote areas. They claimed that the duty hours are between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in a remote village and then returning to their house is a risky affair for them.
Aizawl, Dec 6 : A day after outgoing Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga resigned from the Presidentship of the Mizo National Front (MNF) owning moral responsibility of the party poll debacle, the party's Core Committee and Political Affairs Committee rejected his resignation while lauding his gesture.

After the joint meeting of the Core Committee and Political Affairs Committee, MNF Senior Vice President and outgoing Deputy Chief Minister Tawnluia said that Wednesday's meeting rejected outright Zoramthanga's resignation.

Any election outcome is the collective responsibility of the party and not of the President alone, he said, citing to the resolution of the meeting.

Zoramthanga, who served as Chief Minister of the state for several terms and held the post of party President for 33 long years, had put in his papers following the MNFas humiliating defeat by the Zoram Peopleas Movement (ZPM) led by Lalduhoma.

The elections to the 40-member Mizoram assembly were held on November 7 and counting of votes was held on Monday. The ZPM secured 27 seats and the MNF managed to secure only 10 seats reducing its tally from 26 in 2018 assembly polls, while Zoramthanga himself also lost his Aizawl East-I seat to ZPM Vice President Lalthansanga by a margin of 2,101 votes.

Zoramthanga has been the MNF President since the death of Laldenga in 1990. The 79-year-old MNF chief has so far successfully contested Assembly polls for six times in between 1987 and 2018 and held the Chief Ministeras post for three terms in between 1998 and 2023.
Jaipur, Dec 6 : As mystery swirls over the new Chief Minister of Rajasthan, senior leader and former CM Vasundhara Raje has been called to Delhi, according to BJP sources.

Raje left for the airport at around 9.30 pm, said sources, adding that she will meet top party leaders on Thursday.

It has been three days since the results of the Assembly elections in Rajasthan were declared, but till now there is confusion regarding the Chief Minister.

Till now, no decision has been taken regarding the BJP Legislature Party meeting and the name of the CM.

Meanwhile, three BJP MPs, who were fielded in the Assembly polls and had won, have resigned from the Parliament. These are Diya Kumari, Kirodilal Meena and Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore. However, Mahant Balaknath has not resigned yet.

There will be no by-elections for the seats of the Lok Sabha MPs who have resigned, as there is less than 6 months left for the Lok Sabha elections.

Diya Kumari was MP from Rajsamand and Rathod was MP from Jaipur Rural seat. Meena was a Rajya Sabha member, hence bypoll will be held to the seat.

After resigning, the MPs turned MLAs met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Parliament House. Diya Kumari also met party President J.P. Nadda.

Here, meetings and brainstorming are going on within the BJP from Delhi to Jaipur regarding the new Chief Minister. There was a 4-hour meeting between Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Nadda at the Prime Minister's residence on Tuesday evening.

BJP leaders are claiming that a decision will be taken soon on the name of Rajasthan CM. This is the first time in Rajasthan BJP that there is confusion regarding the Chief Minister. BJP has been contesting elections only after declaring the face of the Chief Minister, hence there was never any confusion after the results were declared.
Raipur, Dec 6 : The father of a man named as an accused in connection with the Mahadev betting app scam in Chhattisgarh was been found dead under suspicious conditions at a village in the state's Durg district, police said on Wednesday.

The deceased has been identified as Sushil Das, 62, who was reportedly missing since the last two days.

Durg Senior Superintendent of Police Ram Gopal Garg said told the reporters that prime facie it looks like a case of suicide.

Das, who worked as a security guard in a private company, was missing since Sunday evening. Police said the body has been sent for post-mortem examination and the exact case his death would be known once the report comes.

Das' son, Asim Das, a driver and alleged cash courier in the Mahadev app case, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on November 3. The central agency had also claimed to have recovered Rs 5.39 crore from his possession.

During the election in Chhattisgarh, the ED had issued a statement, saying "Many startling allegations have come to light, suggesting that regular payments have been made in the past. So far, around Rs 508 crore has been paid by Mahadev App promoters to Bhupesh Baghel, the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh. These allegations are the subject of an ongoing investigation."

It said further investigation was needed and added that forensic examination of Asim Dasas phone and examination of an email sent by Shubam Soni, one of the key accused in the Mahadev app case, "indicated such payments".

The allegation triggered a political storm in poll-bound Chhattisgarh, and Asim was at the centre of it. The Congress and Baghel called it a conspiracy.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Dec 7 : The 16th edition of the India-Germany Military Cooperation Sub Group (MCSG) meeting was held here on December 5-6, a Defence Ministry statement said.

The Ministry said that the meeting was co-chaired from the Indian side by Brigadier Vivek Narang, Deputy Assistant Chief of Integrated Staff IDC (A), HQ IDS, and Col (GS) Christian Schmidt, Director, Department International Cooperation Armed Forces Office from the German side.

The meeting was conducted in a friendly, warm, and cordial atmosphere.

Discussions focused on new initiatives under the ambit of existing bilateral defence cooperation mechanisms and further strengthening ongoing defence engagements, an official added.

The India-Germany Military Cooperation Sub Group (MCSG) is a forum established to boost defence cooperation between both nations through regular talks at the strategic and operational levels between India's Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff, and Germany's Department of International Cooperation Armed Forces.
Patna, Dec 7 : Bihar Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has nominated transgender activist Reshma Prasad as a senate member of the Patna University (PU) for three years on Wednesday.

Prasad has become the first transgender person who has been nominated as a senate member of a university in the country.

Patna University is considered as one of the top universities in the country.

The nomination aims to encourage and promote people of transgender community in the socially and in the education sector.

Prasad runs a restaurant in Patna. Interestingly, all employees of the restaurant are from transgender community.

She is also a member of the National Council for Transgender Community and role model for other transgender.

She recently came into limelight when she raised questions on the caste-based survey report.

"As per the report, the Bihar government claims that the population of transgender people is only 825 while in the 2011 census, our population was over 42,000. The survey officials did not identify all the transgenders in Bihar. Even my counting was not done. No one asked me about my caste," Prasad had said.
The Reckoning Project team has handed over to Ukrainian prosecutors more than 250 documents with the testimony of victims and witnesses of Russian war crimes against Ukraine, Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin said.

As the press service of the Prosecutor General's Office said on the Telegram channel on Wednesday, Kostin met with executive director of The Reckoning Project, Janine Di Giovanni, and chief legal adviser of the project, Ibrahim Olabi, and thanked the team for their work. According to the PGO, the Prosecutor General stressed that the work of The Reckoning Project team on documenting Russia's crimes against Ukraine is extremely valuable for restoring justice.

"The Reckoning Project has handed over to our prosecutors more than 250 documents with the testimony of victims and witnesses. After the presentation of the book The Most Terrible Days of my Life, our Department for countering crimes committed in the context of armed conflict is studying the information contained in the book for further investigation of these cases," the Prosecutor General noted.

The PGO notes that during the meeting, the expansion of partnership in the field of data collection and analysis was also discussed. The Prosecutor General noted that modern digital tools used by The Reckoning Project team will greatly help in the work of prosecutors and investigators.

"Kostin also thanked The Reckoning Project for its work on the return of Ukrainian children forcibly deported to the Russian Federation. He expressed hope for further cooperation in creating the necessary mechanisms for this," the ministry said.

"I am convinced that our synergy is an important prerequisite for success in the investigation and prosecution of war crimes and the restoration of justice for the victims of this war," Kostin summed up.

The Reckoning Project is a nongovernmental organization, a project involving Ukrainian and international journalists, lawyers, and analysts who collect evidence of Russian war crimes in Ukraine. These testimonies form the basis of criminal investigations, and media projects of Ukrainian and foreign media are being prepared based on them.
Washington, Dec 7 : Nikki Haley, the closest rival to former President Donald Trump, and Indian American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy are expected to spar with each other in the fourth GOP-sponsored presidential debate at the University of Alabama on Tuesday night as former ex-New Jersey Governor Chris Christie is expected to hold his own on his anti-Trump stance.

Yet former President Donald Trump is most likely to loom large over the debate with his fundraising event in Florida, media reports said.

Alabama's first-ever Republican presidential debate comes at a time when news headlines about the party's frontrunner warn the people of dire consequences of his authoritarianism, dictatorship, and vindictiveness against political enemies, media reports pointed out.

It's not clear whether the debaters at the Alabama University will rake up concerns about the ex-president during the fourth GOP presidential debate.

Political experts believe the moderators and, especially, the candidates will avoid biting criticism about the ex-president who enjoys a comfortable poll led over them.

Trump is reportedly ahead of the debaters by 43 per cent while Haley is trailing closely at over 20 per cent followed by Ron DeSantis at 16 per cent.

"There's no limit on the number of topics the candidates 'should' discuss, but it seems unlikely that the conversation will approach those issues in the debate," said Soren Jordan, an associate professor of political sciences at Auburn University at Michigan.

"I'm not sure any of the candidates will be anxious to criticize Trump. This is still the state where his approval rating is the highest of all the states. The real question is how you differentiate yourself as a candidate without alienating Trump voters. I'm not sure any particular candidate has a good read on that." Trump is skipping the 4th debate also as the first three at Penn, Francisco and Milwaukee.

Trump, himself, also has ties with NewsNation executives, notably Sean Compton, the Nexstar executive overseeing the cable TV network who he called a "winner at everything he does".

Some political observers believe the GOP debate, sans Trump, won't be much of a showing. Haley and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis are trailing Trump badly in the polls and seem to be vying against each other as the alternative candidate to the former President, experts note.

Two other GOP hopefuls  entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie  will be debate participants but are also trailing far behind in polling.

Trump's approval rating in Alabama was among the highest in the country before he left office in early 2021. The deep red state has since invited Trump back on several occasions, most recently during a state Republican Party meeting in early August in Montgomery, media reports said.

But Trump's debate snub shouldn't be a surprise to Alabamians, especially Republicans. It's a tried and true political strategy that has found a favourable root in Alabama.

--IANS

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The announcement underscores the region's vast potential and enriches its legacy through innovation

LAKE COUNTY, Calif., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Lake County continues to raise the bar of quality wine production in California and welcomes two recently approved AVAs, the Long Valley-Lake County AVA, and the Upper Lake Valley AVA.

The approval of the two new AVAs is only the latest achievement for the region. Largely overlooked until recently, Lake County is gaining traction as the market looks for high-end, California wines at an accessible price point. Thanks to its volcanic terroir, the Lake County wine region is being recognized for its capacity to produce quality wines that are complex and distinct. The wines offer great aromatic and flavor intensity alongside noticeable aging potential. The region has also become a go-to source for high-end Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

"These two new AVA further demonstrate the vast potential of Lake County," comments Debra Sommerfield, President of the Lake County Winegrape Commission, an organization of the region's winegrowers that actively fosters local viticultural innovation through projects such as the bilingual Lake County Pruning School in English and Spanish, now in its second year. "The establishment of these AVAs builds on the discovery of these as distinct sub-appellations and on the long history of farming in the region while the Lake County Pruning School builds on the long-standing viticultural expertise of the region's growers."

Stretching across 7,674 acres, the Long Valley-Lake County Valley AVA consists of a long, narrow valley floor and surrounding foothills which sits on a geologic formation known as the Cache Formation. The formation is largely made up of lake deposits and consists of tuffaceous and diatomaceous sands and silts, limestone, gravel, and intercalated volcanic rocks. This AVA is known for producing red winegrapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petite Sirah, and Syrah. The first record of vineyards in Long Valley was a family vineyard planted on land near the southern end of the Valley by John Bonham in 1883. This was followed in 1885 when N.E. Hanson planted a vineyard with 2,000 vines on his ranch called "The Crags". Modern viticulture in the proposed area started with the planting of a block of vines by David James, using cuttings from the Fay vineyard that won the 1976 "Judgment of Paris". James and his wife moved to Lake County in 1978 and purchased Pomo Ranch, located on the western shelf along the southern end of Long Valley. The vines were planted on their own rootstock and are still in production. Today this property is the location of Stonehouse Cellars, a licensed Lake County wine producer.

Upper Lake Valley AVA is approximately 20,187 acres and consists of four identified water-bearing formations: Quaternary alluvium; Pleistocene terrace deposits; Pleistocene lake and floodplain deposits; and PlioPleistocene cache creek. These formations comprise the Upper Lake Groundwater Basin, which covers the majority of the AVA. Soils belong to three groups. The MillsholmSkyhigh-Bressa are formed by sandstone and shale and are primarily loams and clay loams. The StillLupoyoma occur on the nearly-level valley floors and consist of very deep, moderately well- to well-drained loams and silt loams. Finally, soils from the Tulelake luvaquenticHaplawuolls map unit are very deep, poorly drained silty clay loams. This AVA is suitable for growing a variety of grapes, including Sauvignon Blanc.

About Lake County Winegrape Commission

Established in 1991, the Lake County Winegrape Commission has been instrumental in developing the Lake County region's unwavering commitment to farming high-quality wine grapes, promoting the winegrowers' brand, and creating greater awareness of the winegrowing region within the wine trade and among wine lovers. A state agency with efforts focused on marketing, research, and education, the Commission has launched innovative programs like Master Vigneron Academy, the Elevation of Wine, and the International Sauvignon Blanc Symposium. For more information visit Lake County Winegrape Commission.

About Lake County Pruning School

Lake County Pruning School is an immersive training program aimed at providing grape growers with pruning insights. The first of its kind for a regional organization, the project began in 2022 and is delivered, in both English and Spanish, in collaboration with Simonit & Sirch, the renowned grapevine pruning school with more than 30 years of research and experience. Lake County Pruning School comprises a theoretical introductory online lesson and three days of practical hands-on lessons in the vineyard. Register here.

Media Contact

Irene Graziotto, Colangelo & Partners, (646) 719.5303, [email protected], www.colangelopr.com

Ana Carolina Quintela, Colangelo & Partners, (415) 302.9786, [email protected], www.colangelopr.com

SOURCE Colangelo & Partners
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking via video link to the G-7 leaders on Wednesday, stated the need to preserve consolidation and support in the world next year for peoples and states whose freedom the aggressors are trying to destroy.

As he noted, this winter Ukraine has a chance to win the battle for energy, in particular thanks to partner assistance in strengthening air defense over Ukrainian cities.

"And if we continue to do this, if we stand up energetically this winter, Russian terror will suffer one of the biggest losses. Strong air defense and energy are an opportunity for our cities to live and the economy to work," the President said.

Also, according to Zelenskyy, further and systematic military support to Kyiv will allow the Ukrainian army to ensure a successful counteroffensive.

"Our soldiers withstand the blows - Putin has not won a single operation this year. We are maintaining important bridgeheads in several front lines and are preparing for the next steps. There is a realistic strategy for action, and it is our Ukrainian efforts - with your support - that can ensure Ukraine's success on earth," he said.

In addition, Zelenskyy recalled, "the EU's decision to start negotiations on Ukraine's membership is a powerful energy for us, the energy of unity." "We have to win this battle for motivation for our people," he stressed.

Speaking about the G-7 year under the presidency of Japan, the President called it productive and expressed hope that the Italian presidency next year will also be fruitful.

So, according to Zelenskyy, "Russia hopes only for one thing - that next year the consolidation of the world will collapse and believes that America and Europe will show weakness and will not maintain support for Ukraine at the proper level."

"[In connection with this], it is vital for the free world to maintain its consolidation. Save the interaction. To maintain the support of the one whose freedom they are trying to destroy. I believe that together we can make the next year productive for you and us. For you and us - for free nations. Not for Putin. Ukraine has power. And I ask you to be exactly as strong as you can - and as freedom can," the President concluded.
For her eighth book, The Museum of Lost and Found (Abrams), Leila Sales arranged an inventive event in keeping with the theme of her middle grade novel. In the story, sixth grader Vanessa discovers an abandoned museum near her home and creates an exhibit about her former best friend, hoping to understand what went wrong between them. Last month, a dozen sixth and seventh graders from a variety of schools across New York City attended a free one-day make your own museum camp arranged by Sales at the Jewish Museum in Manhattan. Weve gathered highlights from the program. All photos by Lisa Leighton.

The day kicked off with Sales talking to the students about her book. They asked her a number of questions about the writing process and sought advice for stories that they were writing.

Museum curator Rebecca Shaykin walked around the galleries with Sales and the kids. They discussed the role of a curator, how to decide which objects belong in a museum, and how to arrange those objects spatially.

After lunch, the students did a team curation exercise: they were given a selection of photos of objects from the museums collection and together they decided on a theme for an exhibition and which objects would belong in it.

After that, all attendees got to create their own model museum on a topic of their choice.

At a gallery opening, the students shared their museums with one another and with museum staff who stopped by. Here Zahra showed her Museum of Dance.

Layla and Lita presenting their Museum of Food.

Ida and her Museum of New Beginnings.

Callie with her Museum of Imperfections.

At the end of the event, Sales signed copies of The Museum of Lost and Found for every attendee.
Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen, venturing far and wide to promote their new picture book How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?, made an unusual stop on Elizabeth Street in Manhattan on December 2. The author-illustrator duo, Candlewick Press, and designer denim shop 3sixteen partnered for a winter event, where admirers of the books and the brand could buy exclusive T-shirts featuring the Shapes series characters from Barnett and Klassens Circle, Square, and Triangle.

For each of the 200 limited-edition tees sold, Candlewick donated a book to an elementary school in either New York or Los Angeles, 3sixteens retail locations. Everybody3sixteen, Candlewick, uswanted there to be some charitable component from the beginning, Barnett said, and 3sixteens Johan Lam suggested the one-for-one donation. Because the Santa book is holiday-specific, the donated books include Barnett/Klassen collaborations such as the Shapes trilogy, The Wolf, the Duck, and the Mouse, and Sam and Dave Dig a Hole, plus titles by Kate DiCamillo, Meg Medina, and Nigerian-born creator Atinuke.

Klassen and Barnett bonded with 3sixteen co-owners Lam and Andrew Chen over a shared appreciation for craft and for clothes as emotional objects, Barnett said. This isnt fast fashion: the heavyweight jersey for 3sixteens T-shirts is knit in Canada, then cut and sewn in the San Francisco factory that makes their premium raw denim jeans. We love their clothes, and we found out they love our books, Barnett added. Weve found a real kinship in our approaches to constructing things that have integrity and meaning.

3sixteens owners are fathers, which facilitates the mutual admiration, Lam told PW. Andrew and I both have young sons, and rich storytelling and art quickly rise to the top of the books that you reach for. Mac and Jons stories have become a big part of our kids childhoods.

The four friends conversations turned to an in-store book event for December, outside the norm for the NoLita boutique. Most of our events, like most fashion parties, arent really geared toward families, Lam said, but we have a ton of customers who are fathers of young children and are also fans of Mac and Jons work. A holiday-themed book signing would welcome all ages to the menswear atelier.

Barnett and Klassen were game. Jon and I like reading our books in unexpected places, and we think its cool that some of the guys who shop at 3sixteen can take their families to this place they love, Barnett said. They made one small request: Jon and I asked if they might want to do a shirt with us.

Notwithstanding that he and Klassen are kind of a big deal among the picture book set, we were a little nervous, Barnett admitted. 3sixteens T-shirts are famous, Andrew and Johans sense of graphics is excellent, and the brands collaborations are legendary. As luck would have it, they were immediately up for it, and we had a lot of fun cooking up these shirts together.

At the morning event, 3sixteens Chen dressed as Santa for photo ops, while Lam, Barnett, and Klassen decked the halls as elves in green and gold. Guests enjoyed cocoa and coffee, and despite the holiday getups, no one summoned the fashion police.

On December 9 and 10, Barnett and Klassen will headline holiday events hosted by Mr. Mopps Childrens Books and Toys in Berkeley, Calif., and at the Ferry Building in San Francisco.
Elle Gonzalez Rose is a television producer and author of the debut YA novel Caught in a Bad Fauxmance. The book releases today from Joy Revolution, a BIPOC YA-focused imprint under Random House Childrens Books cofounded by authors and married couple Nicola and David Yoon. We invited Rose to speak with the Yoons about the inspiration for her book, favorite rom-com tropes, and why romance can be revolutionary.

David Yoon: Were super excited for your book. For me, the pages just turn themselves. The setting, the conflict; its just fun. What inspired you to write these two characters in a summer lake vacation setting and a revenge plot with all the hijinks and shenanigans?

Elle Gonzalez Rose: It came from two different places. I knew I wanted to write this very self-indulgent story that was full of all my favorite tropes, like fake dating and rivals to lovers. I think these tropes in particular are always just so fun on their own. But when you bring them together, its maximum chaos. I kind of wanted to play in that space. I wrote it during the summer. I had watched Cheaper by the Dozen 2 and then gone on vacation. That setting, surrounded by a lake in the Poconos, was where it kind of came together, this concept of families that hate each other at a lake. I watched it work [in the movie], and I thought theyre onto something here. I went to the lake in the Poconos and saw this as a real thing. People have family houses here, and they come for winters and summers, which was such a foreign concept to me as someone whos a city kid. They had photos on the walls of the different families that come year after year. They make their own little community. And thats when I realized, like, this is just such a fun place to be, especially when youre doing all the lake activities. This place had archery and canoeing, and all these different water sports. It was ripe for chaos and competition.

David: Why rom-coms?

Rose: Thats something that it took a long time to allow myself to love. Especially when you study creative writing in an educational setting, theres not a lot of room for love sometimes. But Ive always been so drawn to it: writing scenes where a character falls in love with someone and feels loved and appreciated by someone else, and romantic gestures. Its always been something that I find so much joy in writing, because its fun and happy.

Nicola Yoon: David and I met in graduate school, and one of the first things we noticed about each other is that we are both such romantic goobers. We love rom-coms: movies, books, all of it. But its true to say in creative writing school, theres this idea that theres only one kind of writing that counts. In the culture at large, though, romance is the biggest of the genres. Is that why you felt like you had to allow yourself to write it?

Rose: Yes, and Ive been writing romance even when I didnt realize it was romance. When I was in college, I tried not just doing romance, but it did have this element of humor to it. It felt like it would sometimes get shot down, because it seemed everything has to have meaning. Im always open about the fact that Im Puerto Rican. It felt like what my writing professors were more interested in were stories of trauma and pain and things like that, and it felt so exploitative to only write from that perspective. Sometimes it would feel like this pressure to present an experience that matches what peoples expectations are.

Nicola: Thats the whole mission of Joy Revolution, to show the full breadth of your humanity.

 I wanted to write a queer Latine love story that was not about being queer or Latine. Elle Gonzalez Rose 

Rose: Exactly. I wanted to write a queer Latine love story that was not about being queer or Latine. They just are. Not even thinking about it, I used the phrase, Sometimes joy can be a revolution. That was all that I wanted with this book, which is why I feel so grateful that this is where this book landed, because that was my intention the entire time I was writing it.

David: You said these are two of your favorite tropes. But when I was reading the book, I didnt even feel the tropes because the writing was fun. You could pitch it as enemies to lovers, but that only tells a fraction of the story. How do you write about tropes without it feeling trope-y?

Rose: I think its about building it out and making the circumstances around it feel original, which is something that I wanted to do with this story. I had a really cool setting. When I knew I wanted to write rivals to lovers plus fake dating, its like, Well, how does this kind of set itself apart? I knew what it was as soon as I came up with the family aspect. That was already different. Usually in rivals to lovers or fake dating, it feels a little more central to the main characters. I wanted to bring it outwards. Especially with rivals to lovers, I think that getting families involved makes it seem higher stakes. Its outside of their bubble like this. I think its all about building the world and making it bigger than just their little universe. You can then follow the beats of the trope by exploring the circumstances of why they need to fake date, or why they are rivals.

David: How has your debut journey been so far? How do you feel?

Rose: Its been amazing. I have been writing for my entire life. I remember my first short story when I was five years old. It was a little story about a horse. I gave it to my kindergarten teacher, and she said, Keep doing this. It worked. I kept going. It feels surreal now. People are asking me, how does it feel? I say it doesnt feel real yet. I dont know when it will. But I am so incredibly grateful because its something Ive wanted my whole life. I would have been happy writing for my entire life even if I never got published, but to have the privilege to actually have one of my stories be in the worldespecially this book, which had so much special meaning because it was me finally embracing what I wanted to write, which was something romantic and funny about my various identitiesis a dream come true.

David: Has there been anything that you didnt expect?

Rose: I think the biggest thing is seeing the variety of people around the world who are excited for my book, when Im still shocked that anyones reading it at all. Its wild to me, seeing how much excitement there is. Seeing the breadth of it has been amazing.

David: Do you have a plan for the launch? Are you going to a bookstore to see it on the shelf?

Rose: I actually do have one very meaningful thing that I want to do. This is like a sad thing, but I swear its also happy. I got this beautiful black dress, unfortunately for my dads funeral, and my mom and I were saying to each other, What a shame that this is such a nice dress and youre always gonna remember this horrible occasion that you wore it for. And I was like, No, Im gonna find something worth celebrating and Ill wear this dress again, and itll erase the bad memory. So, I will wear my black dress on that day. Itll finally be something that can balance the unhappiness that comes with that dress.

David: What do you hope that your readers get out of your book?

Rose: I hope that they get what I got out of it, which was a joy revolution! I wrote this book because I needed something very happy where queerness and Latinidad were able to exist in harmony, and not feel like they were at odds with one another, like you can either be proud of your Latine heritage, or you can be openly queer. I wanted a book where you could be both, and it wasnt a problem, and that is exactly what this book turned out to be. For that I am so grateful. I hope that another person out there who really needs that finds that in this book. Even if its just one person, thatll mean everything to me.

Nicola: Thats what rom-coms do. Theyre aspirational. They build a world you want to live in and tell you that love is the most important thing, because it is. And you did that.

David: Its so easy to publish a book that you yourself would pick up and read on your own.

Nicola: Thats the joy of Joy Revolution. Were publishing books we absolutely adore. Thank you for publishing with us.

David: Were proud of you. Have an awesome debut launch day.

Caught in a Bad Fauxmance by Elle Gonzalez Rose. Joy Revolution, $18.99 Dec. 5 ISBN 978-0-593-64579-6
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In releasing its financial results for the quarter ended October 31, 2023, Wiley once again highlighted the steps it is taking to create a leaner, more profitable company. A major part of the restructuring includes selling three non-core assets, and in November, Wiley reached an agreement to sell its university services business to Academic Partnerships. Depending on incentives in the agreement, the deal could reach as much as $150 million.

The company has also begun implementing what it termed its rightsize and optimize plan, under which it expects to save $30 million in the fiscal year that ends next April. The company said the restructuring actions have already started, including the publisher's consolidation, last month, of its marketing functions, and the restructuring of its global operations under one leader. Comment the layoffs, a spokesperson confirmed that it had cut 103 positions in its New Jersey headquarters as part of its global streamlining efforts.

The release of the company's second quarter results was overseen by Matthew Kissner, who took over as interim president and CEO in October after Brian Napack resigned. In prepared remarks, Kissner said that the results met expectations, and that he expected improvement in the second half of the year. The full benefits of the overhaul, Kissner said, will kick in for fiscal 2025 and 2026.

In the quarter, sales from ongoing operations fell 4%, to $492.8 million, from the second quarter of fiscal 2023, and operating income dropped to $46.2 million, from $57.4 million. The decline was due in part to an increase in restructuring and related charges, which were $25.1 million, up from $14 million a year ago. (Wiley also noted that one reason for an increase in corporate expenses was higher executive severance costs).

In its two ongoing groups, sales in Wileys Research unit fell 5%, to $258 million, which the company said was mainly due to the "publishing pause" in its Hindawi unitundertaken after Wiley discovered "compromised" articles in several of its issuesas well as a softer recruiting market. Those declines offset growth in Wiley's open access publishing program. In the quarterly conference call, Kissner said that Wiley expects Hindawi's sales to fall $35 million, to $40 million, and that it has begun "sunsetting" the Hindawi brand and plans to merge its operations into other Wiley groups.

In the Learning group, sales rose 7%, to $149 million. Sales were up 8% in the academic division. led by higher digital courseware sales. Revenue in the professional division rose 4% helped by what Wiley said was an improved channel environment, fewer returns, and solid sales of its Dummies series.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to include the number of layoffs in New Jersey.
A group of Democratic members of Congress this week introduced new federal legislation aimed at combating the surge of book banning in schools. Introduced on December 5 by Floridas Maxwell Alejandro Frost and Frederica Wilson, and Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin, the Fight Book Bans Act would offer school districts funding to defend against the ongoing surge in challenges to books and educational materials that has led to thousands of titles being pulled from school library bookshelves.

Book bans in Florida and in states across the nation are a direct attack on our freedoms and liberties everywhere. As my home state shamefully leads the country in book bans, we cannot let this censorship and dismantling of our education system go unchecked, said Frost, at a press conference unveiling the new bill. The Fight Book Bans Act takes a stand against censorship to firmly stand on the side of history, education, our students, teachers, and schools, who dont deserve to suffer the consequences of radical politics in the classroom. This is about protecting our libraries and protecting truth and history.

Specifically, the billwhich Frosts office said already has the support of 50 members of Congresswould enable the Department of Education to provide grants to school districts to cover expenses incurred while fighting book bans, including the cost of retaining legal representation, the cost of traveling to hearings on the bans, and the logistics for those hearings, a release states, as well as the cost of obtaining expert research and advice. Under the bill, the DOE would be able to provide up to $100,000 to a given school district, with total appropriations capped at $15 million over five years.

Banning books in schools is not only unpopular, its expensive, said Laura Schroeder, congressional affairs lead at PEN America, in a statement of support. As school districts around the country divert resources to address widespread efforts to curtail students freedom to read, it is once again students who ultimately suffer the most.

The bill comes as the latest data shows book bans continuing to surge in 2023. In a September release, the ALAs Office for Intellectual Freedom reported that the number of unique titles challenged in the first 8 months of the year jumped 20% over 2022, with most of the challenges relating to books "written by or about a person of color or a member of the LGBTQIA+ community."

In addition, a September report from PEN America found 3,362 instances of books banned in public schools in the 2022-23 school year, a 33% increase over last year. "Amid a growing climate of censorship, school book bans continue to spread through coordinated campaigns by a vocal minority of groups and individual actors and, increasingly, as a result of pressure from state legislation," the report, Banned in the USA: The Mounting Pressure to Censor, found.

Since the publication of its "Banned in the USA" report tracking school book bans in April 2022, PEN America has documented nearly 6,000 book bans in total over the last two years.

The bill is the second bill aimed at protecting school libraries this year. In April, Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and Representative Raul Grijalva (D-AZ-03) reintroduced the Right to Read Act, which would, among its provisions, ensure all U.S. students have access to a school library staffed by a certified school librarian and extend "liability protections" to teachers and school librarians amid a spate of state laws threatening librarians and teachers with fines, jail time, or job loss for providing access to books deemed inappropriate. The bill has not advanced.
The main Christmas tree of Ukraine has been lit up on Sofiyska Square in the center of Kyiv on Wednesday.

"Today, traditionally on Saint Nicholas Day, the main Christmas tree of the country was lit up on Sofiyska Square in the capital," Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on the Telegram channel.

Like last year, an artificial 12-meter-long Christmas tree was put up in Kyiv and decorated at the expense of philanthropists.

"The theme of the location is Brave Hearts. It is dedicated to our defenders. The New Year tree is decorated with toys in the shape of blue and yellow hearts. The top [of the tree] is decorated by the Coat of Arms of Ukraine  a symbol of our statehood, national dignity and strength. Next to the tree, there is a heart-shaped photo zone that is also dedicated to our defenders. The small Christmas trees are decorated with yellow and blue hearts. Everyone can take one of the decorations for good memory for a donation," Klitschko said.

As reported, the installation of the Christmas tree started on December 3. It is planned that the tree will stand on the square until January 10, 2024.

No mass festive events will be held in Kyiv on Christmas and New Year. The curfew in Kyiv will last as usual from midnight to 5 p.m. during winter holidays.
Swiss wagon hire company MFD Rail has signed a framework agreement to supply the Austrian Rail logistics specialist OBB Rail Cargo Group (RCG) with up to 600 additional container carrier wagons.

The container carrier wagons will be specially modified to RCG's requirements and will be designed for use with the MOBILER hydraulic lifting system. Using the MOBILER configuration will allow the complete transfer of goods between train and truck without the need for a crane or siding.

This innovative logistics solution is especially useful for the environmentally friendly transport of waste by rail, with contracts placed this year to move over 200,000 tons of waste, and a significantly higher higher amount expected next year. MFD Rail is actively involved in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and aims to achieve CO2-free transport.

The new container carrier wagons will be specially branded and first 100 have already been delivered and in use in various types of transport of waste, with the next 100 scheduled to be to RCG in the first half of next year. The new wagons have state-of-the-art multimodal underframes that aid the upgrading of RCG's logistics services.

MFD Rail is based in Rotkreuz, Switzerland and supplies the European combined transport sector with a modern and homogeneous wagon fleet, including providing its customers a high level of support, technological availability, and service. The intermodal wagons is supplies on lease come with a flexible and transparent leasing and maintenance concepts.

Providing wagons on lease reduces customer's dependencies on existing service providers and an easy way to modernises their fleets. That enables companies to move from road to rail in in an environmentally conscious, energy-efficient and climate-neutral way, and supports climate stability with a fully circular and digital green fleet.

Rail Cargo Group is the freight transport division of the Austrian national railway company OBB. It is one of Europe's leading rail logistics providers and has a presence outside Europe into Asia. It has a presence in 18 countries worldwide and nearly 6,000 staff that operate 448,000 trains transporting over 88 million net tonnes of freight a year.
Josh Duhamel and Minka Kelly will star in the Netflix ranching drama Ransom Canyon.

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Netflix shared details about the "romance-fueled family drama and contemporary Western saga" in a press release Tuesday.

Ransom Canyon "charts the intersecting lives of three ranching families, all set against the rugged expanse of Texas Hill Country."

Duhamel will play Staten Kirkland, the owner and sole occupant of the Double K Ranch. Staten is described as a "steadfast and stoic" character who "leads the charge to resist outside forces threatening his way of life and the land that he loves."

Kelly will portray Quinn, a character that has "often found herself in the shadow of others."

"After a stint in New York pursuing her career as a concert pianist, she has returned to Ransom Canyon to carve out a new path for herself," an official description reads.

Ransom Canyon is created, written and executive produced by April Blair. Amanda Marsalis will direct the first two episodes.

Duhamel's previous TV roles include Leo du Pres on All My Children and Danny McCoy on Las Vegas, while Kelly played Lyla Garrity on Friday Night Lights and Dawn Granger, aka Dove, on Titans.
The Sundance Film Festival announced 91 films and series screening in the 2024 festival. Sundance 2024 runs Jan. 18-28 in Park City, Utah.

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The U.S. Dramatic competition includes Kristen Stewart and Steven Yeun in Sam and Andy Zuchero's post-apocalyptic romance Love Me. Stewart also co-stars in the Midnight horror movie Love Lies Bleeding.

In the Summers features The Flash's Sasha Calle and unreleased Batgirl star Leslie Grace in the cast of Alessandra Lacorazza's film.

Jesse Eisenberg returns to Sundance as writer, director, producer and star of A Real Pain, costarring Kieran Culkin. Eisenberg also co-stars with Riley Keough in David and Nathan Zellner's family drama Sasquatch Sunset in the Premieres section.

Steven Soderbergh, whose career began with Sex, Lies and Videotape at Sundance, returns with Presence in the Premieres section. Chiwetel Ejiofor also brings his second directorial feature, Rob Peace, starring Ejiofor, Camila Cabello, Michael Kelly and Mare Winningham.

The late Richard Roundtree is in the cast of writer/director Josh Margolin's Thelma, starring June Squibb, Fred Hechinger, Parker Posey, Clark Gregg and Malcolm McDowell.

Documentaries on Christopher Reeve, Devo, Luther Vandros, WNBA player Sue Bird, Filipino elections, U.S. policing, student government, psychics and Will Ferrell's trans friend Harper are part of the Premieres category.

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Scream star Melissa Barrera leads the horror movie Your Monster from writer/director/producer Caroline Lindy. Six more Midnight films also play.

Seven additional films are in the U.S. Dramatic competition and five more Premieres. 20 more documentaries play in the U.S. and World Dramatic competition, plus War Game as a Special Screening.

Ten international films play in the World Drama section. Next features six additional films, eight episodic series, 4 Spotlights from other festivals and two family films are also included. Two New Frontier exhibits also play.

The complete list of 91 films with synopses is available on the Sundance website. Passes and packages are on sale now on the website and single tickets go on sale Jan. 11.
Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk guarantees the United States control over the spending of funds transferred to the Ukrainian army.

"We are ready to account for every cent invested in the Ukrainian army ... I, the speaker of the Ukrainian parliament, guarantee from the Ukrainian parliament that this transparency will be at the highest level," Stefanchuk said on the air of the national telethon on Wednesday.

He recalled that a temporary special commission has been established in the Verkhovna Rada to monitor the receipt and use of international logistical assistance.

"We have a number of ... new software that allows all interested parties at the Congressional and administration levels to control the expenditure of those funds that are transferred to Ukraine for military, humanitarian, and financial assistance. That is, we are interested in this transparency," Stefanchuk stressed.

As reported, Stefanchuk is paying a working visit to the United States on December 4-6.
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Theres a hint of new competition riding into a sector that has attracted attention for being in a duopoly-like situation.

Rapido, a commute app known for its budget-friendly bike-taxi services, on Tuesday announced its entry into the cab market, which is currently dominated by marquee brands Uber and Ola.

Rapidos cab foray will be enabled by a software as a service (SaaS)-based platform.

While BluSmart and InDrive are among the other names in the cab aggregator space, they are yet to have a pan-India reach.

Bengaluru-based Rapido, which was founded in 2015, is yet to enter the unicorn club.

At a valuation of around $820 million (Rs 6,800 crore at the current conversion rate), it has raised approximately $324 million (Rs 2,600 crore) in funding, according to leading startup data platform Tracxn.

TVS, Swiggy, Nexus Venture Partners, and WestBridge Capital are among its investors.

Incidentally, Rapido has a Bengaluru connect with both Uber and Ola.

San Francisco-headquartered Uber, when it launched in India in 2013, offered the first ride in Bengaluru.

And, Bhavish Aggarwal and Ankit Bhati had founded Ola in 2010 with its headquarters in Bengaluru.

Rapido already provides bike taxis and auto (three-wheeler) services and is now getting into cars with its zero-commission model for drivers.

The Rapido Cabs platform plans to onboard driver partners through a subscription model instead of levying commission on each ridea model that the incumbents follow.

Drivers on the Rapido platform will be required to pay a subscription fee of Rs 500 if their monthly earnings exceed Rs 10,000.

Our innovative SaaS-based platform revolutionises the conventional commission system for drivers, tackling the persistent challenge of commission sharing with aggregators," Pavan Guntupalli, co-founder of Rapido, said during a launch event in Gurugram on Tuesday.

He explained that this approach ensures that drivers incur only a minimal software usage fee, marking a shift in the industry dynamics.

The company expects its cabs division to contribute 15 to 20 per cent to its revenue in the coming year.

We aim to have 500,000 driver partners by Q3FY25, he said.

As for the financials, the firms losses rose to Rs 439 crore in FY22 from Rs 166 crore the previous year, according to Entrackr. Its revenues almost doubled from Rs 75 crore to Rs 145 crore in the same period.

Uber India decreased its losses to Rs 216 crore in FY22 from Rs 334 crore in the preceding financial year.

Ola reported a consolidated loss of Rs 1,522 crore, up from Rs 1,116 crore in the comparable period.

The financial earnings for FY23 have not been disclosed yet.

Uber and Ola didnt comment on the queries related to competition sent by this newspaper.

However, industry sources said that Rapido may face various challenges as a small player and alleged that it is largely not licensed even in the two-wheeler space.

Competing with players such as Uber, Ola, BluSmart and inDrive would be tough, said an industry executive, who wished to remain anonymous.

Rapido has engaged over 100,000 four-wheelers on its fleet, with nearly 50 per cent located in Delhi-NCR.

While Rapido is accessible in over 100 cities, its cab service will debut in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Delhi-NCR.

Guntupalli is confident of launching in all major cities next year.

The company is prioritising passenger safety with app features like SoS, share-location and emergency buttons.

In addition, it has provision to send notifications in case the driver deviates from the route, makes halts, or drops off at a location different from the booked one.

The company also plans to develop a face recognition system for future integration.

Sensitivity training for becoming driver partners, referred to as captains, is part of the safety drill too.

To focus on sustainable transportation, Rapido has begun including electric vehicles (EV) in its fleets.

We are collaborating with the government to comprehend the barriers hindering electrification.

"This includes assessing factors such as costs, charging infrastructure and financing, Guntupalli said.

The ride begins

Major competitors: Uber, Ola, and BluSmart

Business model: Drivers to pay a monthly subscription fee of Rs 500 when their monthly earnings exceed Rs 10,000.

Competitors charge a commission per ride.

Current fleet: Over 100,000 cabs

Cities: Starting ops in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Delhi-NCR, with plans to expand to other major cities next year

Revenue target: Aiming for the cab division to account for over 20% of total revenue next year
Byju Raveendran, founder of educational technology (edtech) firm Byjus, has injected around Rs 4,000 crore of personal capital into the company in recent months.

Photograph: Kind courtesy, Byju's

This move comes as the company grapples with challenges, including securing fresh capital, delays in financial reporting, and legal disputes with lenders.

Raveendran has pledged personal property to assist the company in dealing with the crisis.

"He conveyed to employees that despite perceptions of being a billionaire, he has reinvested a major portion of his wealth back into the company, said a person familiar with the matter.

During an interactive leadership huddle on December 5, attended by close to 50 leaders, Raveendran addressed the current challenges facing Byjus.

He shared the difficulties the company is currently navigating but also expressed confidence in Byjus ability to overcome them in the next three months.

Raveendran likened the current situation to a war on multiple fronts and as commander called on everyone to rise and fight alongside him for their present and future.

Attendees noted Raveendrans commitment to transparency, emphasising that he no longer sugarcoats his words.

He acknowledged that while Byjus has not completely overcome all challenges, it is in a better state than six months ago.

In his speech, Raveendran highlighted the challenges intensifying around June-July.

Despite considering giving up, he remains dedicated to fighting for the entire Byjus team and the millions of students they serve.

He remains dedicated to rebuilding Byjus despite the personal sacrifices he has made, including putting his entire personal wealth back into the company, mentioned a source.

Raveendran discussed major challenges, including litigation related to term loan B and ongoing negotiations with lenders.

He anticipates resolution after the sale of Epic, a subsidiary in the US, which will also alleviate the current liquidity crunch.

Byjus is locked in dispute with lenders in the US over a missed interest payment on a $1.2 billion term loan B.

To address financial challenges, Byjus plans to sell two key assets  Epic and Great Learning  for $800 million-$1 billion, according to sources.

Raveendran highlighted the closure of the ongoing 2022-23 statutory audit and successful resolution of litigation surrounding the Davidson Kempner loan against Aakash Educational Services (AESL).

Ranjan Pai, chairman of Manipal Education and Medical Group, has taken over the loan, with discussions for further investment in Byjus ongoing.

Pai has invested $168 million (Rs 1,400 crore) in beleaguered edtech firm Byjus test-prep subsidiary AESL, according to sources.

They said that Pai is in discussions to invest about $350 million as equity and debt in Byjus.

The current challenge involves resource optimisation to achieve group-level profitability.

Raveendran expressed unwavering belief in the potential for innovation and growth even during challenging times.

Byjus 2.0

Following this, Arjun Mohan, chief executive officer, outlined the companys plan to boost productivity.

This includes incorporating the latest developments in technology, particularly in artificial intelligence, across all aspects of business, including product, sales, and marketing.

The plan focuses on better monetising existing assets and offering more options across price points and product ranges to potential customers of Byjus.

Mohan expressed complete confidence in Byjus Tuition Centres to generate cash profitably and push the frontiers of hybrid education.

Towards the end of the presentation, Raveendran apologised for not being able to give much face time to the team lately, acknowledging that this has been no ordinary year.

Many team members thanked Raveendran for the perseverance he has shown over the past 18 months, said the person.

He concluded by assuring that in a few months, Byjus will be back to the heights where it belongs.

Netherlands-based tech investor Prosus NV has marked down Byjus valuation to under $3 billion, reflecting an 86 per cent decrease from its peak valuation of $22 billion last year.

The Enforcement Directorate recently issued a show cause notice of Rs 9,362 crore to Think & Learn and its founder Byju Raveendran for alleged violations of foreign exchange rules while attracting foreign investments from 2011 to 2023.
'Rahul should have learnt so much in the last 20 years. But give him a mic and he begins to talk without thinking about its consequences.'

IMAGE: Bhupesh Baghel -- then Chhattisgarh chief minister -- with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at the Congress plenary session in Raipur, February 25, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

Dr Sant Kumar Tewari, assistant professor, department of political science at the Pandit Sunadrlal Sharma University, Bilaspur, explains the reasons behind Congress' rout in Chhattisgarh and BJP's astounding victory.

In the 2018 election, the BJP could win only 15 out of 90 MLAs as against the Congress's 68.

In 2023, the BJP romped home with 54 MLAs against 35 from the Congress, a huge 50 per cent drop from its showing in the 2018 election.

"The Congress and top leaders made no attempt to mingle among the people two-three days before polling day. There were no big rallies of Rahul Gandhi or Priyanka Gandhi before polling day. They (Rahul Gandhi and the top Congress leadership) will have to climb down from their ivory towers," Dr Tewari tells Prasanna D Zore/Rediff.com.

Among all the defeats, isn't the Chhattisgarh loss the most surprising for the Congress?

It is surprising of course. Even the exit polls got this one (state) wrong. Everybody had predicted an easy win for the Congress in Chhattisgarh. It nevertheless, offers an opportunity for introspection, especially, for those who have lost power.

They (Congress) should introspect why they lost so badly despite doing so much good work for the people.

What worked for the BJP?

The biggest gain for the BJP is the astounding victory that people of the state handed to them.

Narendra Modi is the BJP's biggest and most powerful leader. Nobody has been able to dent his clean image. The Opposition is doing all it can to link him with such activities (corruption), but they have failed to even make a small dent on his clean image.

He has also got a very efficient team of leaders working under him.

The voters have undergone a huge change in the way they vote. The voters are more educated today. Gone are the days when victories were obtained by bribing voters at the last moment or promising them the moon and freebies.

Along with promises the voters today are also looking at a politician's image and Narendra Modi ranks right there at the top.

Their (Congress's) leader (Rahul Gandhi) seems to have learnt nothing despite being in politics for almost 20 years now. Any person, after spending over 20 years in any school or institution, would shine like the Kohinoor (diamond).

Look at the rise of Narendra Modi and look at Rahul Gandhi's graph. He (Rahul Gandhi) should have learnt so much in the last 20 years. But give him a mic and he begins to talk without thinking about its consequences.

During an election, even the smallest mistake made by a politician attains huge proportion.

Rahul Gandhi must focus now on building a solid team which would at least give him a good speech when he holds the mic in his hand. Whatever a person's stature, if he realises his follies, accepts them and makes efforts to improve upon them then he still can offer a formidable challenge to Narendra Modi.

You have been repeating the same mistake since the last 20 years as a result of which you are being rejected by the people time and again.

IMAGE: BJP leaders Narendra D Modi and Dr Raman Singh at an election rally at Jagdalpur in Bastar, October 3, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

The BJP also fielded 47 new faces in the state. Did that help?

One must always remember that the respect people have for their elected MPs and MLAs start dwindling once they start losing a couple of consecutive elections.

I am not disrespecting the experience such leaders, have but I firmly believe that all the leaders who have crossed 50 and who are unable to win elections should start working for the party in an advisory role.

These leaders should hand over the reins of the party to the youth. Just consider the morale of the youth in your party who has been toiling for decades when they see that a few leaders, just because they have political mai-baap (godfathers) backing them, are getting tickets to contest the election despite defeat-after-defeat.

In the BJP, change happens quietly; even if a senior leader is sidelined, nobody raises an eyebrow and accepts the decision.

In the Congress, if you try to bring even a small change at the local level, then the party is faced with rebellion from here to Delhi.

While the Congress has won Telangana, it must not ignore how the BJP has increased its MLAs manifold. The best thing about the BJP is that once they decide to contest election from a state where they do not have a strong presence their entire team descends upon the state with all their might.

But Bhupesh Baghel has been quite a popular chief minister in the state.

Being from Chhattisgarh, I can tell you that Bhupesh Baghel made for an excellent chief minister. His work for the people is noteworthy.

When the results started swinging towards the BJP, I was quite stumped. But Baghelji too must introspect the reasons for the BJP's huge victory margin in this election. But then he can only do that much.

Interestingly, in Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan, the BJP went to the hustings without declaring their chief ministerial face compared to the Congress. Despite this shortcoming, if the people of Chhattisgarh voted heavily against the Congress and in the BJP's favour, then the credit must go Narendra Modi.

The Congress and its overall leadership must try to figure out what is it that attracts the voters towards the BJP.

I think it is time for the Congress to change its leadership. The way the Congress's top leadership has failed to win the confidence of people in critical Hindi belt states like Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan now, and in Uttar Pradesh for almost three decades now is shocking.

These leaders, for some reason, are not able to win people's trust. These leaders have closed their eyes and ears to the public. They still consider themselves above the common people resulting in Congress getting alienated from the people.

One definitely got an impression before the election that the Congress would definitely win Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

The Congress and top leaders in these two states made no attempt to mingle among the people two-three days before the polling day. There were no big rallies of Rahul Gandhi or Priyanka Gandhi in these states before polling day.

They (Rahul Gandhi and the top Congress leadership) will have to climb down from their ivory towers and mill around with the common masses.

What went wrong for Congress in Bastar which voted for Congress in 2018? The tribals of Bastar seem to have voted for BJP. Why?

I have always stood by the opinion that the law and order of any state should always follow the rightful legal path; it should not depend on circumstances or change for select few.

The Congress did win sympathies of Bastar's tribals (in the 2018 election) after their leadership was killed in the region in 2013 (25 senior Congress leaders, including Nand Kumar Patel, Vidya Charan Shukla and Mahendra Karma were killed by Maoists in Bastar in 2013).

When the Congress came to power in 2018 they did pussy-foot with the Naxals instead of taking them head on. The Congress should have shown spine in dealing with the Maoists in Bastar.

Like, people would always say that Article 370 will never be abrogated in Kashmir; that it is a Constitutional guarantee given to the Kashmiris. But if you are firm on your decision then there is nothing that can stop you.

People don't look at the Congress leadership as firm and decisive as much as they consider Narendra Modi to be firm and decisive.
The father of a man named as an accused in the Mahadev betting app scam has been found dead under suspicious conditions at a village in Chhattisgarh's Durg district, a senior police official said.

Image only for representation. Photograph: ANI Photo

The body of Sushil Das (62), who was missing since the last two days, was found in a well at Achhoti village under Anda police station limits on Tuesday afternoon and prima facie it looks like a case of suicide, Durg Senior Superintendent of Police Ram Gopal Garg said.

The deceased was the father of Asim Das, an alleged cash courier in the case arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

Sushil Das, who worked as a security guard in a private company, was missing since Sunday evening, Garg added.

Prima facie, it seems to be a case of suicide, but the exact reason behind the death was yet to be ascertained, the official said.

The body was sent for post-mortem examination and further investigation was underway, he added.

Asim Das and another accused, constable Bhim Singh Yadav, were arrested by the ED on November 3.

The ED claimed that a forensic analysis and a statement made by 'cash courier' Das had led to 'startling allegations' that Mahadev betting app promoters have paid about Rs 508 crore to outgoing Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel so far, and that 'these are subject matter of investigation'.

Baghel had stoutly denied the allegations and accused the BJP of misusing the ED.

Asim Das was arrested by the central agency in Raipur after it claimed to have recovered Rs 5.39 crore in cash from him.

He was allegedly sent by the app promoters from the United Arab Emirates 'especially, to deliver a large amount of cash for electioneering expenses of the ruling Congress Party', according to the ED.

'Asim Das has admitted that the seized funds were arranged by the Mahadev app promoters to be delivered to one politician 'Baghel' for upcoming election expenses in the state of Chhattisgarh,' the agency had said in a statement issued before the two-phase polling on November 7 and 17.

On November 25, Das had submitted before a special PMLA court that he had been framed as part of a conspiracy and he had never delivered cash to politicians. PTI COR RSY
Gangster Rohit Godara, who has taken responsibility for the murder of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, had recently demanded Rs 1 crore in extortion from a former local councillor and a businessman, police said on Wednesday.

IMAGE: Supporters of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, the national president of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, gather outside the collectorate in Udaipur to protest his murder, December 6, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

While an FIR was registered at the Bilaspur police station on the complaint of businessman Rakesh Kumar, the gangster -- said to be linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang -- no headway was made in the case.

After Gogamedi's murder, there is panic in the Kumar household with the businessman, who owns a petrol pump, claiming that he was threatened over the phone by Godara thrice in one month.

A resident of Bilaspur Khurd village, Kumar said he demanded security from the police but was provided with only one constable.

On October 14, Godara first called the businessman and threatened to kill him if he did not pay Rs 1 crore. However, Kumar lodged an FIR and did not pay the money.

The second call came on October 25 with the gangster reiterating his demand. On November 10, Godara made the third call to Kumar and asked Kumar to "prepare his bier" as he did not want the money anymore due to the delay.

"It is difficult for me to get out of the house. They have issued threats and police are making no efforts to catch them," Kumar told PTI.

However, a senior police officer said the case is under investigation.

Gogamedi was shot dead in the living room of his house in Jaipur on Tuesday.

The Rajasthan Police on Wednesday formed an SIT to nab the two accused who allegedly killed Gogamedi for "backing" the enemies of Godara.

The gangster lived in Kapuriasar in Lunkaransar, Bikaner before fleeing the country in 2022.

Godara was the main accused in the murder of Bhinvraj Saran in Sardar city of Churu in 2019 and he had also taken responsibility for the murder of gangster Raju Thehat
As many as 90 of the 230 newly-elected MLAs in Madhya Pradesh, almost 39 per cent of the assembly strength, have declared criminal cases against themselves, with 34 facing serious charges for which maximum punishment is more than five years in jail among other criteria.

IMAGE: Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan receives a warm welcome from the people during his visit to Chhindwara, December 6, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

According to the Association for Democratic Reforms, a not-for-profit organisation, 94 MLAs, or 41 per cent of the total, had declared criminal cases registered against them in 2018, when the previous elections were held.

In 2023, this number has dropped to 90, nearly 39 per cent of the 230-member House, an ADR report said.

The report said of these, 34 legislators are facing serious criminal charges, for which the punishment is more than five years or it is non-bailable among other criteria.

In 2018, this number was 47.

Pritam Lodhi, elected on a BJP ticket from Pichhore in Shivpuri district, is the only MLA who is facing charges of murder.

Five other newly-elected MLAs are facing attempt to murder charges.

Three of the candidates declared criminal cases related to women, it report said.

The BJP swept the Madhya Pradesh assembly polls, winning 163 seats, increasing its tally from 109 in 2018. The Congress, which had won 114 seats in 2018, was reduced to 66, while new entrant Bharat Adivasi Party managed to win in one constituency.

As many as 51 out of the 163 BJP legislators are facing criminal cases, 16 of them serious offences. This number for the Congress stands at 38 MLAs, including 17 who are facing serious charges, said the ADR.

The lone winning candidate of the Bharat Adivasi Party is also facing a criminal case.



MP Congress chief Kamal Nath, elected from Chhindwara, has declared two cases of forgery and cheating registered against him in Bhopal and Indore. Charges have not been framed by the court in both the cases, the report said.

No case is pending against Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who was elected from Budhni.

Criteria for serious criminal cases includes the offence for which maximum punishment is of 5 years or more, if an offence is non-bailable, if it is an electoral offence (IPC 171E or bribery), offence related to loss to exchequer, offences that are assault, murder, kidnap, rape related, offence that are mentioned in Representation of the People Act (Section 8), offences under Prevention of Corruption Act and crimes against women, the report stated.
Israeli forces are now operating in the heart of Khan Yunis, southern Gaza's largest city, the Israel Defence Forces said on Tuesday.

IMAGE: An Israeli artillery unit operates at the border with Gaza, as seen from southern Israel, on December 5, 2023. Photograph: Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters

'We are in the core of Jabaliya, in the core of Shejaya and now also in the core of Khan Yunis,' the IDF said in a statement.

Forces penetrated Khan Yunis on Monday, but the announcement was only made a day later.

In recent days, the IDF called on residents of certain areas of Khan Yunis to evacuate.

Khan Yunis is the second largest in the Strip and is considered the capital of Gaza's southern district.

It is also regarded as a personal stronghold of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, whose family lives there. Since the war began, the IDF has eliminated two members of the Hamas ruling politburo as well as associates of Sinwar, who live in Khan Yunis.

In the last few days, IDF fighters have been operating in Jabaliya and Shejaya, densely populated areas in northern Gaza that are Hamas strongholds.

On Tuesday morning, the military said it had completed its encirclement of Jabaliya and raided Hamas's General Security Headquarters inside the United Nations administered refugee camp.

Weapons, command and control equipment, observation gear and maps were located in the headquarters, it said.

During the last few days, infantry, armor, engineering and air force forces have been fighting terror squads in face-to-face encounters.

In addition, Israeli soldiers have uncovered and destroyed weapons, tunnel shafts and other terror infrastructure, including in and around civilian homes and schools, the IDF said.
The four young men from Chittur in Palakkad district who died in a car accident in Jammu and Kashmir on December 5 are remembered by their village as 'hardworking youth' who used to go on such trips everywhere.

Image used only for representation. Photograph: ANI Photo

The four -- Sudesh, Anil, Rahul and Vignesh -- were part of a 13-member tourist group from Nedungode area in Chittur, Palakkad.

People from their village remember the four as 'hardworking' and very good natured persons.

"They used to go on such trips every year. They were very well behaved young men. It is really sad to hear about their death.

"What happened is so unexpected that we are able come to terms with it. All four of them lived within a 100-metre radius. They were close friends and had grown up together," one of the local people told a TV channel.

He also said that two of the deceased had got married in February this year.

They were interested in travel and therefore had created a fund for the same, he said.

"Last time they went on a trip to Kulu-Manali and this time they went to Delhi, then Agra and then to Jammu and Kashmir. They were scheduled to return from there on December 7 and would have reached here on December 10," he said.

Another villager said the four were helpful to everyone and therefore, everyone held them in high regard.

"The bodies are expected to reach here tomorrow (December 7) is what we have heard," he said.

A woman living close to the victims' homes, said, "They were very good children. We are unable to bear the loss. For us they are like our own children. "

The state government's Non-Resident Keralites welfare agency Norka Roots said that an official from its Delhi office had gone to Jammu and Kashmir to coordinate efforts to bring back the remains of those who died and also the other members of the tourist group.

A Norka official said that three others, who were in the vehicle that fell into the ravine, were injured with one of them in a critical condition that required brain surgery.

While the tourist in a critical condition has been shifted to SKIMS in Srinagar, the other two had minor injuries and are admitted in the primary health centre at Sonamarg there. the official told PTI.

The remains of the four deceased have also been kept at the Sonamarg PHC, he said.

The accident occurred when the tourist group were returning to Srinagar from Leh in two cabs.

The driver of the cab carrying seven of the 13 tourists lost control at a turn near the Zojila Pass, on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway, as the road was slippery due to snow and fell into a ravine.

Besides the four from Kerala, the cab driver -- who hailed from Jammu and Kashmir's Ganderbal district -- also died.
As many as 72 out of 90 MLAs in the newly-elected Chhattisgarh legislative assembly are crorepatis, four more as compared to the previous assembly while 17 of the new MLAs face criminal cases, with six having serious charges against them.

IMAGE: BJP leader and Chhattisgarh's former CM Raman Singh speaks to the media on Chhattisgarh assembly elections, in Raipur, December 4, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

The Bharatiya Janata Party, which won a landslide victory in the recently-held elections, tops this list with 43 crorepati MLAs, followed by the Congress.

Out of 90 seats, the BJP has won 54 and Congress 35.

A total of 72 newly-elected MLAs (80 percent of the House strength) are crorepatis.

The BJP tops the list with 43 (80 percent) of 54 MLAs each having declared assets valued at more than Rs 1 crore.

At 29, 83 percent of 35 MLAs of Congress are crorepatis, as per the analysis done by the Association for Democratic Reforms and the Chhattisgarh Election Watch.

The average of assets per winning candidate in the state assembly elections held this time is Rs 5.25 crore as compared to Rs 11.63 crore in the 2018 assembly polls.

With assets worth Rs 33.86 crore, BJP's first-time MLA Bhawan Bohra (Pandariya seat) tops the crorepati club, followed by the outgoing chief minister and Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel (Patan constituency) with assets worth Rs 33.38 crore.

BJP's Amar Agrawal (Bilaspur seat) stands at a third position with assets valued over Rs 27 crore.

Congress MLA from Chandrapur, Ramkumar Yadav, and his BJP counterparts Ramkumar Toppo and Gomati Sai, the incumbent MP who contested the assembly elections, are at the bottom of the list of MLAs with the lowest assets.

Yadav has declared assets worth Rs 10 lakh, the lowest among all MLAs, Toppo Rs 13.12 lakh, and Sai Rs 15.47 lakh, as per the analysis.

The report also states that 33 out of 90 MLAs (37 percent) have declared their educational qualification as having passed class 5 to class 12. At 54, a maximum of 60 percent of the total MLAs hold graduate degrees or higher qualifications.

Two others hold diplomas while an MLA has declared himself as just "literate".

A total of 44 winning candidates (49 percent) have declared their age between 25 and 50 years while 46 others (51 percent) are between 51 and 80 years.

BJP's Domanlal Korsewada (75), elected from the Ahiwara (SC) seat is the oldest MLA in the newly-elected assembly while Congress' Bilaigarh (SC) legislator Kavita Pran Lahrey (30) is the youngest of all.

As many as 17 of the 90 MLAs in the newly elected Chhattisgarh assembly have declared criminal cases against themselves, with six facing serious charges like voluntarily causing hurt and criminal intimidation.

The BJP swept the Chhattisgarh assembly polls, winning 54 seats. The Congress, which had won 68 seats in 2018 in the state, was reduced to 35 seats, while the Gondwana Gantantra Party managed to win in one constituency.

Late chief minister Ajit Jogi founded Janata Congress Chhattisgarh-Jogi, and Bahujan Samaj Party failed to open their accounts this time.

As per a report by non-profits Chhattisgarh Election Watch and Association for Democratic Reforms, of the 90 newly elected MLAs, 17 (19 percent) have declared criminal cases against themselves in their poll affidavits.

Of them, six (7 percent) MLAs have declared serious criminal cases against themselves, it said.

Twelve (22 percent) of BJP's 54 MLAs and five (14 percent) of Congress' 35 MLAs have declared criminal cases against themselves.

Similarly, the BJP has four (7 percent) MLAs and the Congress has two (6 percent) legislators who have declared serious criminal cases against themselves.

As per the report, outgoing Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel (Patan seat), Devendra Yadav (Bhilai Nagar) and Atal Shrivastav (Kota) are among the Congress winners who face criminal cases.

Similarly, former ministers Rajesh Munat (Raipur City West) and Dayaldas Baghel (Navagarh), Shakuntala Singh Portey (Pratappur), Uddheshwari Paikra (Samri), OP Choudhary (Raigarh) Vijay Sharma (Kawardha seat), Vinayak Goyal (Chitrakot-ST) and Asharam Netam (Kanker-ST) are among the newly elected MLAs from BJP who face criminal cases as per the report.

In 2018, the report said, 24 (27 percent) of the 90 elected MLAs had declared criminal cases against themselves, with 13 (14 percent) facing serious charges.
Ukraine is interested in joint production of the full spectrum of weapons with the United States, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said in a video address to the Ukrainian-U.S. Defense Forum on Wednesday.

"We are interested in joint production with you of the full spectrum of weapons necessary for modern warfare. Artillery, armored vehicles, drones. Maintenance and service of equipment. Security on land, in the sky, at the sea. Ukraine does not want to depend only on partners. Ukraine aims and really can become a donor of security for all our neighbors once it can guarantee its own safety. We really can do this. It is absolutely realistic," he said.

The head of state invited all U.S. defense companies for cooperation and expressed confidence that together both states can create a new and powerful "arsenal of freedom" which will be a reliable helper for all free nations of the world.

"An arsenal that by the mere fact of its existence will guarantee our children, the children of Europe, the children of America, the children of all the world that no Russian or other evil shell will ever again destroy our peaceful life," he said, adding that during the forum, the Ukrainian team will present the specific prospects and opportunities.

Zelenskyy also said that during his last visit to Washington, he discussed with U.S. President Joseph Biden the launch of joint defense project, particularly the production of air defense systems.

"If our air shield is strong enough, it will protect the entire eastern flank of Europe," he said.

The head of state thanked the United States and other partners who support Ukraine for the fact that Ukraine endured in this war and maintained normal life on most of its territory.

"None of this would be possible without our brave defenders, both men and women, without the weapons and ammunition that help us preserve the freedom and independence of Ukraine, without the cooperation with our partners and the consolidation of the free world which allow us not only to defend our independence but also gradually regain control of our territory occupied by Russia," he said.

The president also said that "since February 24 of last year, we have already liberated half of the territory captured by Russia. We are holding the frontline and it is up to our warriors, to our initiative what the front in Ukraine will be."

As reported, on December 6-7, Washington will host the forum that brings together representatives of Ukrainian and U.S. industries and the governments of both countries. The parties will study possibilities of joint weapons production.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is part of India and hence 24 seats have been kept reserved for the region in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly.

IMAGE: Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks in the Lok Sabha during the Winter Session of Parliament, in New Delhi, December 6, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

Shah said this while replying to a debate in the Lok Sabha on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill.

The home minister said after the delimitation exercise in Jammu and Kashmir to redraw assembly and parliamentary constituencies, there will be 43 assembly seats in Jammu region -- up from present 37 -- and 47 in Kashmir Valley, up from 46.

"As many as 24 seats have been kept for PoK because the region is our own," he said.

Shah blamed India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's "two major blunders" -- declaring a ceasefire without winning the entire Kashmir and taking the issue to the United Nations -- for the sufferings of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

As Shah trained his guns on Nehru, Congress' leader in the House Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury interjected alleging that when it comes to the Kashmir issue, Bharatiya Janata Party leaders unnecessarily criticise Nehru

Chowdhury asserted that Congress leaders were tired of listening to this kind of criticism and asserted that he was verbally demanding that a daylong debate be held on Kashmir and Nehru.

In his speech, Shah said if Nehru had taken the right steps, a large chunk of territory would not have been ceded and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir would have been part of India.

"I support the word that was used here -- Nehruvian blunder. Because of the blunder that was committed during the time of Nehru, Kashmir had to suffer. With responsibility, I want to say that the two big blunders that happened during the tenure of Jawaharlal Nehru, happened due to his decisions, because of which Kashmir had to suffer for years," Shah said.

"Kashmir had to suffer due to Nehruvian blunders. One was that when our Army was winning and as soon as Punjab area was reached, ceasefire was declared and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir was born. If the ceasefire would have been (declared) three days later, PoK would have been part of India," the home minister said.

The ceasefire made without winning the entire Kashmir was one "blunder" and the other was taking the issue to the UN, he alleged.

There was an uproar by the opposition benches over the remarks on Nehru and they staged a walkout but returned later.

After their walkout, Biju Janata Dal leader Bhartruhari Mahtab said the home minister should also talk about the "Himalayan blunder", a reference to Nehru's actions leading up to the war with China in 1962.

Shah quipped that his talking about two blunders had upset the opposition benches and if he had used the phrase "Himalayan blunder", they would have resigned.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said the remarks made were not an insult to anyone and were only made to put things in context.

In his remarks, Shah also alleged that the Kashmir matter was taken to the UN in a hurry.

"If at all it had to be taken to the UN, it should have been sent under Article 51 rather than Article 35 of the UN Charter," he said, asserting that he of course believes that the issue should not have been taken to the UN in the first place.

Shah also quoted Nehru as saying later that the ceasefire was a "mistake". Shah added that it was not Nehru's mistake but a blunder.

Shah pointed out that one of the two bills on Jammu and Kashmir seek to nominate two Kashmiri Migrant community members, including a woman, to the assembly.

One seat in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly will be set aside for people displaced from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, the home minister said.

He said after the delimitation exercise in Jammu and Kashmir, there will be 43 assembly seats in Jammu region -- up from present 37 -- and in Kashmir Valley it will be 47 from 46.

As many as 24 seats will be kept for the residents of PoK, he said.

Talking about the abrogation of Article 370, Shah said it had nothing to do with going back on promise as it was a temporary article and had to go.

"You did not have the courage, PM Narendra Modi showed courage and did away with it," he said, referring to the opposition benches.

More than 45,000 people have lost their lives due to terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir so far, he said.

The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill seeks to change the nomenclature of "weak and underprivileged classes" to "Other Backward Classes".

The Union Territory, which has the provision for a legislative assembly, is currently under central rule.

The home minister also said that the Congress has done the "greatest harm" to Other Backward Classes over the years and done nothing for their welfare.

Shah alleged that historically, the Congress has opposed the welfare of the backward classes and has only resorted to lip-service for such communities.

He said Narendra Modi was born into a poor family and became the prime minister and he knows the pain of the backward classes and the poor.

Shah said the government's focus was on ending the terror ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.

He said a plan to have zero terror incident in Jammu and Kashmir is in force for three years and it will be successful by 2026.

"I believe Modi government will return to power in 2024 and by 2026, I hope there will be no terror incident in Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

Shah said the two bills will give justice to those deprived of their rights for the last 70 years and asserted that reservation to the displaced people will give them a voice in the legislature.

He said that had terrorism been tackled at the beginning without considering vote-bank politics, Kashmiri Pandits would not have had to leave Kashmir Valley.

The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill were passed by the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
Markets were closed in Jaipur and some other Rajasthan districts and protesters blocked roads and stopped trains on Wednesday after a bandh call by the Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena over the killing of its chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi.

IMAGE: Supporters of Rajput Karni Sena president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi blocked the Shipra Path road outside the hospital where he was rushed after he was shot dead by some unidentified criminals and demanded that the accused be arrested immediately, in Jaipur on Tuesday, December 5, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

Governor Kalraj Mishra spoke to Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the phone and summoned the state chief secretary, home secretary, police chief and Jaipur police commissioner to review the law and order situation in the state.

A dharna which was going on outside the private hospital in Jaipur, where the body of Gogamedi was kept since Tuesday, was called off on Wednesday night after the police assured the family members to arrest the accused in 72 hours and suspend the SHO of Shyam Nagar police station and other policemen guilty of laxity.

The body was shifted from the private hospital to the SMS government hospital for postmortem, which is underway, the police said.

DCP (East) Yogesh Goyal said that decision has been taken to suspend the SHO of Shyam Nagar police station and other policemen guilty of laxity.

Photograph: / Rediff.com IMAGE: Supporters stop a train during a protest, in Bhilwara.

Funeral will take place at Gogamedi's village in Hanumangarh on Thursday.

Earlier in the day, police set up a special investigation team to probe into the killing of the Rajput leader who was shot dead by two men at his house here on Tuesday.

On Facebook, gangster Rohit Godara -- said to be linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang -- has claimed responsibility and said Gogamedi was killed for "backing" his enemies.

The police have identified the two alleged killers as Rohit Rathore from Jaipur and Nitin Fauji from Haryana's Mahendragarh, and announced a cash reward of Rs 5 lakh for information leading to their arrest.

Markets remained closed in Jaipur, Kota, Bundi, Ajmer, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Jhalawar, Baran and some other districts while a mass rally was taken out in Udaipur amid heavy deployment of police.

IMAGE: A sit-in protest against the murder of Karni Sena chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, in Jaipur. Photograph: ANI Photo

An incident of stone pelting was also reported from Gurjar ki Thadi in Jaipur, but policemen dispersed the gathering. Some people also protested outside the Bharatiya Janata Party office in Jaipur.

There was no movement of public transport in Jaipur and the services of roadways buses were also affected, officials said.

Long traffic jam was witnessed at 200-foot bypass in the capital city that leads to Delhi as protesters blocked the highway.

The supporters of Gogamedi gathered in the Khatipura area here in the morning from where they moved to other parts of the city asking shopkeepers to shut their shops.

Similar protests took place in Jodhpur and Udaipur as well but remained peaceful. The effects of the bandh call were seen in other districts too as people refrained from venturing out.

IMAGE: A protest in Jaipur. Photograph: ANI Photo

In Kota, private schools remained closed in view of the protests.

In view of the bandh and jam on the highways in the state, Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation stopped operating buses on many highways, a spokesperson said.

North Western Railways chief spokesperson said five trains were stopped by protesters on Bhilwara and Jaipur route, which led to a delay in train movement ranging from 16 to 54 minutes.

Governor Mishra summoned chief secretary Usha Sharma, director general of police Umesh Mishra, Jaipur police commissioner Biju George Joseph and other officials to review the situation.

The governor told the officials to ensure that those behind the killing are arrested soon, according to a Raj Bhawan spokesperson.

Governor Mishra also said the murder in broad daylight is a serious matter.

The SIT will be headed by additional director general (crime) Dinesh MN, the officials said, adding police also carried out searches to nab the two accused.

In the evening, some leaders of the Rajput community claimed outside the private hospital here that the administration has accepted their demands, including a probe by the National Investigation Agency and protection to family and eyewitnesses.

However, Gogamedi's wife Sheela Shekhawat came out and appealed to people sitting on a dharna not to move from there.

She said that till the accused's "encounter" is not done, the community people should not move.

However, later, the family members agreed to call off the dharna.

Sheela Shekhawat addressed the community members and said that written assurance to arrest the accused in 72 hours and suspension of the policemen (guilty of laxity) was given.

She asked the people present there to reach Gogamedi's village in Hanumangarh for funeral on Thursday.

In the FIR registered by Sheela Shekhawat at Shyam Nagar police station, she said that her husband had informed chief minister Ashok Gehlot and the DGP through three letters that he was facing threat to his life.

Also, the Rajasthan Police were informed by the Punjab Police about intelligence input regarding conspiracy to attack on Gogamedi but the DGP did not provide him security deliberately, she alleged.

Sheela Shekhawat named two accused -- Nitin Fauji and Rohit Rathore -- in the FIR.

Earlier, former MLA Manoj Nyangli and community leader Radheysham Tanwar said at the agitation site outside the private hospital in Mansarover that the administration has assured NIA investigation in the matter and protection to the family members.

"The deadlock has ended and a funeral is likely to take place tomorrow (Thursday)," Nyangli said.

Earlier, Jaipur police commissioner Joseph told PTI that the accused who shot dead Gogamedi as well as Naveen Singh Shekhawat, who accompanied them to the Rajput leader's residence, have been identified.

It is a matter of investigation whether Shekhawat, who used to run a cloth shop, was aware of the intentions of the two accused, he said.

Shekhawat's father Girdhari Singh told PTI that his son is being falsely implicated in the case.

BJP leader Rajendra Rathore, who visited the dharna site on Tuesday, told reporters at his residence that he was writing to the Union home minister for an NIA probe.

Earlier in the day, Mahipal Singh Makrana, national president of Shri Rajput Karni Sena, demanded the removal of the state police chief for failing to provide security to Gogamedi..
Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee president A Revanth Reddy who is set to take over the reins of the state from Thursday will have a daunting task of making the bleak coffers ring to be able to fulfill the six guarantees that the Congress party gave during the run-up to the recently concluded assembly polls.

IMAGE: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge meets Telanganas CM designate Revanth Reddy, in New Delhi, December 6, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

Besides, he also has many political challenges to confront.

The Congress's robust campaign highlighting the six guarantees is said to have been one of the reasons for the party to mark its victory in the state.

However, finding the funds to fulfill them will be a herculean task.

The most attractive among the six is free travel for women in Telangana State Road Transport Corporation buses.

Sources in the state government told PTI that according to a rough estimate, the RTC earns Rs 2,500 crore annually through women passengers.

If the scheme is to be implemented, the Congress dispensation will have to replenish the same amount to the corporation which is reeling under accumulated losses of Rs 6,000 crore.

The RTC, which was limping with a debt burden, started booking operational profits after the present managing director VC Sajjanar took over in August 2021.

The party promised to waive up to Rs 2 lakh farm loan.

The BRS government had budgeted Rs 21,000 lakh crore to waive up to Rs 1 lakh.

As per the calculation, the Congress government needs to allot at least Rs 35,000 lakh crore for the next five years to implement the farm loan waiver.

According to the state government statistics, as many as 42 lakh farmers were identified as beneficiaries during the previous regime for the crop loan waiver.

Similarly, the grand old party promised to give Rs 15,000 to farmers and Rs 12,000 to farm workers under the Rythu Bharosa guarantee scheme per acre annually.

Under the BRS government's Rythu Bandhu, farmers were paid Rs 10,000 annually.

The previous BRS government has paid Rs 72,000 crore under a similar scheme as Rythu Bandhu during the past five and half years, with 70 lakh farmers benefitting.

The latest installment could not be released due to poll code.

If the Congress party has to implement its scheme under similar parameters, it needs nearly Rs 1 lakh crore in the next five years.

Senior journalist and political analyst S Nagesh Kumar said the first challenge that Revanth Reddy will face is the implementation of the six guarantees and political challenges as unlike the previous government, the Congress government will have stronger Opposition in terms of numbers.

Congress is forming the government after getting 64 seats in the November 30 polls. BRS won 39, BJP-8, MIM-7 and CPI-1.

The first challenge that he is going to face is the implementation of six guarantees. Karnataka also said the same thing that they will implement immediately...The state is reeling under a debt of Rs 5 lakh crore. The Centre has steadfastly refused to increase the borrowing limits under FRBM (Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2003).

Nagesh Kumar further said Reddy will face strong opposition within the Congress party as well from the Opposition on fulfilling the poll promises.

According to the Telangana budget 2023-24, the total revenue was pegged at 2.16 lakh crore while the revenue expenditure was at 2.12 lakh crore.

Telangana's outstanding public debt is estimated to be Rs 3,57,059 crore, according to the Budget estimates 2023-24 which is 23.8 percent of GSDP.
A Pakistani woman on Tuesday crossed over to India from the Wagah-Attari International Border to marry a Kolkata resident with whom her marriage has been fixed in January next year.

Karachi resident Javeria Khanum crossed over into the Indian side from Attari in Amritsar district where she was welcomed by her fiance Sameer Khan and some members of his family to the beats of 'dhol'.

Khanum has been granted a 45-day visa after two previous visa rejections and the Covid pandemic stalled their plans for around five years.

The couple, in a brief interaction with reporters at Attari, said the marriage will be solemnised in January next year.

"I have been granted a 45-day visa. I am very happy to be here. Just on arrival, I am already getting so much love here. In the first week of January the marriage will be solemnised," she said.

She had tried to get a visa on two occasions, but got lucky the third time.

"It is a happy ending and a happy beginning," she said, expressing her happiness at being able to travel to India to get married.

"Everyone back home was very happy. I can't believe I have got the visa after five years," she added.

Sharing how the couple got in touch, Khan said he expressed interest in marrying Khanum after seeing her photo on his mother's phone.

"This started in May 2018. I had come home from Germany where I was studying. I saw her photo on my mother's phone and expressed my interest. I told my mother that I want to get married to Javeria," he said.

Earlier, the visa was rejected twice and in between there was the Covid pandemic, Khan said, adding that he was thankful to the Indian Government for the visa.

"My mother is very happy now that we will be getting married in January next year," he said.

Khan said his friends from his time in Germany -- from Africa, Spain, the United States and other countries -- are likely to attend his wedding.

The couple then left to catch a flight from Amritsar to Kolkata.
"No, she will not make me the PM," was Dr Pranab Mukherjee's cryptic response in a reference to Sonia Gandhi when he was asked by his daughter Sharmistha Mukherjee about his chances of becoming the prime minister in 2004.

IMAGE: Former President Dr Pranab Mukherjee. Photograph: PTI Photo

Sharmistha recalls her father's reply after Sonia Gandhi's decision to withdraw from the prime ministerial race in her upcoming book In Pranab, My Father: A Daughter Remembers.

In the book, the former Congress spokesperson who quit politics in 2021 provides a glimpse into the illustrious life of her father, where she also says that he did not have any rancour against Sonia Gandhi for not making him the prime minister, and definitely not against the man chosen -- Dr Manmohan Singh.

Through her father's diary entries, personal stories narrated to her and her own research, Sharmistha uncovers new, hitherto unknown facets of his political life -- his unfulfilled ambition of becoming India's prime minister arising out of his inability to emerge as the 'number one person' to earn Sonia Gandhi's trust, the personality cult around the Nehru-Gandhi family and Rahul Gandhi's lack of charisma and political understanding among other things, according to the book's publishers Rupa Publications.

Dr Mukherjee served as India's finance minister and subsequently became minister for External Affairs, Defence, Finance and Commerce. He was India's 13th president (2012 to 2017). He died on August 31, 2020 at the age of 84.

As the president of the single largest party Congress to win the Lok Sabha elections in 2004, Sonia Gandhi was tipped to be the prime minister and had the full support of the coalition partners. But she renounced her claim to be the prime minister - a decision that took the nation, including her own party colleagues and coalition partners, by surprise.

In the chapter titled The PM India Never Had, Sharmistha also writes: 'Following Sonia's decision to withdraw from the prime ministerial race, there was intense speculation within the media and political spheres.

'The names of Dr Manmohan Singh and Pranab were being discussed as the top contenders for the position. I did not have the chance to meet Baba for a couple of days as he was terribly busy, but I spoke to him over the phone. I asked him excitedly if he was going to become the PM. His response was blunt, 'No, she will not make me the PM. It'll be Manmohan Singh.' He added, 'But she should announce it fast. This uncertainty is not good for the country'.'

The author goes on to add that if her father harboured any disappointment about not being named the prime minister, it did not reflect in his diaries. He told a journalist that he did not have any expectation from Sonia Gandhi to make him the prime minister.

'If there's no expectation, there's no disappointment as well,' the book, which will be launched on Mukherjee's birth anniversary on December 11, says.

'It is generally believed that Pranab had a chance to become the PM earlier in 1984 as well, after Indira Gandhi's assassination, and not just in 2004,' it adds.

Sharmistha says that people often asked her whether her father actually harboured the ambition to become the prime minister and she posed this question to him during the UPA-I era.

'His response was emphatic. He said, 'Of course, I would like to be the prime minister. Any politician worth his salt has this ambition. But just because I want it does not necessarily mean I am going to get it,' she writes.

She then drew her own conclusions: 'Pranab Mukherjee definitely had the desire to be the PM, but he also came to terms with the fact that he was not going to become one.'

Sharmistha says Mukherjee's diary entries from those days contain very sketchy details, perhaps indicating a lack of time owing to a busy and hectic schedule filled with meetings and consultations with various stakeholders.

On 17 May 2004, he wrote, 'Sonia Gandhi decides to withdraw from Prime Ministerial candidature. BJP's vicious campaign. Myself, Manmohan, Arjun, Ahmed Patel and Ghulam Nabi were called. We are stunned.'

On 18 May, he wrote, 'Sonia Gandhi sticks to her decision. Countrywide agitation. Allies are also shocked. CPP meeting emotionally surcharged. Appeal to her to reconsider. Work up to 1 am.'

'On 19 May, almost with a sigh of relief, he wrote, 'Issues resolved. Manmohan Singh becomes PM designate. Manmohan and Soniaji met President and the President was pleased to give mandate to form the government to Manmohan Singh',' the book says.

Sharmistha mentions that though at that time, her father didn't write anything more, on December 31, while recounting major events of the year, he wrote, 'Most surprising was the amazing sacrifice of Sonia Gandhi by refusing to accept the Prime Ministership of the country despite pressure from within the party and outside. Her decision saved the country from a bitter confrontation between BJP and Congress.'

She also writes that her father felt Sonia Gandhi was 'intelligent, hardworking and keen to learn. Once he told me that unlike many political leaders, her biggest strength was that she knew and recognised her weaknesses and was willing to work hard to overcome them. She knew that she lacked political experience but worked hard to understand the complexities of Indian politics and society'.

One of the early references in his diaries about Rahul Gandhi was on January 29, 2009, in the context of a CWC meeting that had discussions on strategies for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections that year as one of the agendas, the book says. After that, there are few references in his diaries of Rahul Gandhi visiting him at his residence.

'Pranab described him as 'very courteous' and 'full of questions', which he took as a sign of Rahul's desire to learn. But he felt that Rahul was 'yet to mature politically'. Rahul continued to meet Pranab at Rashtrapati Bhavan, though not very frequently. Pranab advised him to join the Cabinet and gain some first-hand experience in governance. Rahul obviously did not heed the advice, as we all know,' the book says.

'During one of these visits on 25 March 2013, Pranab noted, 'He has interest in diverse range of subjects but moves very quickly from one subject to another. I don't know how much he listened and absorbed',' it adds.
'If we have to restrict and fight terrorism, first and foremost, we have to ensure communal harmony in the country.'

IMAGE: Pakistani terrorist Ajmal Kasab at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus on the night of November 26, 2008. Photograph: Kind courtesy Sebastian D'Souza/Mumbai Mirror

Six surgeries and 15 years later, Devika Rotawan still gets the occasional swelling or soreness in her right leg.

In a sense, it never really leaves her. The bullet injury from November 26, 2008, has not fully healed.

"I live with the memory. I wake up and go to bed with it," says the third year BA student, now 24.

She was nine when she sustained the injury and became the youngest to testify in court in the Mumbai attacks case.

She would end up picking out Lashkar-e-Taiba operative Ajmal Kasab from a police line-up of three suspects.

Rotawan had been at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus outstation platforms with her father and brother, waiting for a train to Pune, when an explosion scattered the crowd and she became one of the approximately 100 wounded by indiscriminate firing.

After months in hospital, her father's dry fruit business dwindled and her brother contracted spinal tuberculosis.

The night marked the end of Rotawan's childhood and the beginning of an ambition she is working on now -- to enter the Indian Police Service.

"I want to put an end to terrorism," she says.

A series of planned shootings with AK47s had terrorised the city at busy targets -- CSMT station, Taj, Trident, Leopold Cafe, Chabad House, and Cama Hospital.

For survivors and first responders, the incident is marked by anguish, frustration, and determination.

The siege has become among the most memorialised episodes in Mumbai's history: There are more than a dozen public and private tributes across the city, including plaques for those slain at the sites of the shootings, and local parks and chowks named after those who died saving lives.

IMAGE: A policeman and an elderly man at the CST station in Mumbai, one of the sites of the 26/11 attacks. Photograph: Reuters

Elephant in the room

Many have repressed the event in the years that followed, says Bhisham Mansukhani, a consultant in the beverage industry, who was among the hostages trapped overnight at Taj.

"My co-survivors made it clear they did not want to talk about it. We would meet, but the incident was the elephant in the room."

Looking back, the experience gives him not only an appreciation of people but also of the reality we live in.

The morning Mansukhani and his mother were rescued, the administration had not even arranged to safely drop them home.

They had to hail a taxi themselves, and the cabbie -- in a moment of large-heartedness that is the Mumbaikar's only recourse in a crisis -- refused to accept payment.

None of the counsellors Mansukhani spoke to understood the survivors of terror strikes, but triggering memories returned during the attacks in Paris in 2015 and Nice in 2016.

"We need a safe space for non-judgemental discussion among individuals who have been scarred, without making it a matter of nationalism and patriotism," he says.

For Vishnu Zende, every time he takes his place in the announcer's booth at the CST station is a reminder of that night.

He was at the microphone on 26/11, at an elevation tucked away from the terrorists' view, when he heard the gunshots, saw passengers stumbling from the outstation platforms to the suburban side, followed by the "yamdoots" (messengers of death).

Over the next 20 minutes, he managed to warn commuters in five or six local trains that were pulling into the station to leave from the back exit immediately, putting hundreds out of harm's way.

"The train blasts had happened before that, and we started alerting people to report suspicious items. So it is important to remember the risks," says Zende.

The nurses at Cama Hospital would rather forget. Sister-in-charge Mina Jadhav's son still worries every time she switches to the late shift.

Every floor and entrance of the hospital, exclusively for women and children, now has armed guards, but that was not the case in 2008.

Jadhav was the first to hear the gunfire and see assailants Kasab and Abu Ismail jumping over the gates.

If she and the hospital attendants had not quickly switched off the lights and hid 20 patients and relatives in the bathroom, the surgical ward might have been struck too.

"I wasn't brave, I was just doing my job," Jadhav says. There is one thing she hopes people would discuss.

"We were promised increments by the authorities but no one is talking about that now."

IMAGE: The iconic Taj Mahal hotel burns during the Mumbai terror attacks of November 26-27, 2008. Photograph: Arko Dutta/Reuters

How safe is Mumbai today?

Rajvardhan Sinha says in any battle you must always move forward. Going back can get you killed.

On 26/11, when terrorists took over the Taj hotel, Sinha, who at that time was deputy commissioner of police of Special Branch II, and his fellow officers encountered a hail of bullets while moving to the first floor.

Two cops rushed back to the surveillance room they had been in, but were promptly gunned down.

Ever since the war-like assaults shocked the city in 2008, security agencies have realised that going back is not an option.

"We learnt about a new kind of danger, and that we should always be planning in advance," says Sinha, who is now joint managing director of the Maharashtra State Security Corporation.

Every November, as people recount the courage he showed in holding off the gunmen, Sinha wonders where the next threat could come from.

In the last decade-and-a-half, while the police infrastructure has gone through a drastic overhaul, the challenges have changed and multiplied.

"If an incident were to happen again, it could be technologically much more advanced," he points out.

IMAGE: Security personnel take position outside the Taj Mahal hotel during the attack.

By most accounts, Mumbai's security establishment has grown in scope, resources, and in its understanding of terrorism.

Following the 2008 attacks, based on recommendations by the Ram Pradhan Committee, the National Investigation Agency and National Security Guard expanded into Mumbai, the Maharashtra Security Force was introduced, and more Anti-Terror Squad units were added.

Private establishments have ramped up security, too.

"When Taj and Trident were alerted months before the attack, since we had alerts of a potential threat, they did not want gun-wielding men in the reception because it could affect business," recalls Shirish Inamdar, former additional deputy commissioner of the Maharashtra state intelligence department.

"These iconic targets realised they have to be secured and the police are doing that now."

According to reports, the police have installed 5,000 CCTVs across the city and private establishments have 70,000 surveillance cameras.

After 26/11, the private security industry experienced an average annual growth of 20 per cent, until being slowed by COVID-19.

Coastal security looks different, too. Mumbai's fishermen have two jobs now, says Devendra Tandel, a representative of the city's traditional fisherfolk.

Now they not only hunt for fresh catch, but also look out for threats at sea.

"We have to be the eyes and ears of security agencies," says Tandel.

In 2008, terrorists had hijacked a fishing vessel and taken the sea route to carry out planned shootings.

In the last 15 years, the fishing community has observed more monitoring along Mumbai's 149-km long coastline: The city got two new coastal police stations, helicopters, nearly two dozen speed-boats, and recently two police jetties were announced.

But Tandel is not resting on his oars.

"Illegal fishing is still a problem and since it is indirectly linked with security, it has to be seriously curbed," he says.

During the monsoon, when trawling is prohibited, some vessels continue to ply the waters with their licence and number plates obscured.

Tandel has placed two demands before the state authorities.

To give small fishing vessels financial aid for fitting vehicle tracking systems -- a post-26/11 recommendation by security agencies that is still stuck, and the formation of a coordination committee so that in an emergency fishermen can swiftly reach out to the Coast Guard, Navy, Mumbai Coastal Police, Fisheries Department, and Intelligence Bureau.

Photograph: Sahil Salvi for Rediff.com IMAGE: A police official pays his respects at the memorial set up at CST station, one of the sites where the terrorists had opened fire.

Given Mumbai's dense population and its status as the country's financial capital, it has been a target for sleeper cells and terror activities.

Security specialists maintain such threats can never be ruled out.

"While the last attack was in 2011, we cannot be complacent," says a city police official, who has been working on counter-terrorism for years.

"The calm could be attributed to improvements in our security, or the strength of enemies declining, or their target shifting to other centres," he says.

Some aspects of policing still require attention. As of 2022, the police-to-public ratio in Maharashtra is 136.45 personnel per 100,000 people, compared with the sanctioned 186.36.

"Mumbai will always be vulnerable," says former Mumbai police commissioner M N Singh, who had led the 1993 blasts investigations as joint commissioner-crime.

"Technology has developed so much that it is bound to be misused not only in the financial world but also in the security scenario."

IMAGE: Staff at the Cama Hospital, one of the targeted sites, pay tributes to the 26/11 terror attack victims. Photograph: PTI Photo from the Rediff Archives

As such, digital public goods will need protection.

"Superclass intelligence apparatus, a responsible media, and modernisation of weaponry will always be required," says Inamdar, who now teaches at intelligence departments in various states. But there is something more important, he adds. "If we have to restrict and fight terrorism, first and foremost, we have to ensure communal harmony in the country."

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
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BRATTLEBORO  Vermont Suitcase Company, known for its accessible summer touring and cast members including hilarious puppets, is taking its first ever winter tour.

The group is performing an original story based on the Christmas carol "Good King Wenceslas" with its classic style of fast-paced comedy and puppetry.

"We decided it would be really fun to put that into a play," said Doran Hamm, actor and producer.

Instead of having the usual six or seven actors for a tour, Vermont Suitcase Company will have four for "Good King Wenceslas." Rather than touring for the usual two weeks, they'll do two weekends.

More shows will be held in the southern part of the state "because it's our neighborhood and we really just got actors that live local," Hamm said. Rehearsals were scheduled to take place over five or six long days.

Local shows include 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Hooker-Dunham Theater in Brattleboro, 2 p.m. Saturday at the Broad Brook Community Center in Guilford, 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Hooker-Dunham Theater, 2 p.m. Sunday at Main Street Arts in Saxtons River, 7 p.m. Sunday at Wild Goose Players in Bellows Falls and 7 p.m. Dec. 14 at Next Stage Arts in Putney.

"Vermont Suitcase Company presents a winter play for winter people," Keith Marks, executive director at Next Stage Arts, said in a news release. "We are excited to bring this unique and entertaining production to audiences, providing a fresh and memorable experience during the holiday season."

Shannon Ward, actor and producer, said the story involves the king and his paige meeting different people from the village in "vignette-type encounters." Matt Tibbs plays the king.

King Wenceslas learns how to be good. Otherwise, Hamm said, the character had been unaware and aloof, and "not really doing anything" for his people.

"He gets challenged by his family to do something," Hamm said. "He's like, 'Fine. I'm going to go be a man of the people.'"

In the traditional version, the king was a saint and performs miracles. The play is an origin story imagined by members of the theater group as they talked of taking on winter touring. Rosa Palmieri wrote the play and is directing it.

Vermont Suitcase Company wants to have some smaller productions to offer to places such as schools, libraries or bars.

"We're open to performing anywhere," Ward said. "It's kind of our brand, too."

During rehearsals, parts of the script will be refined. Hamm said the group tends "to go with the joke that makes all of us laugh the hardest."

"Because more often than not, what makes all of us laugh tends to make an audience laugh," he said. "As an actor ... I love it dearly."

Other cast and crew members include actor Saskia Bailey-de Bruijn and costumer/producer Sandy Klein.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Cloudy. A few flurries or snow showers possible. High 41F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening with more clouds for overnight. Low 29F. Winds light and variable.
The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden has announced additional assistance to Ukraine in the amount of $175 million, the State Department reports.

Capabilities provided in todays package include air defense munitions, additional ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rockets Systems, artillery ammunition, High-speed Anti-Radiation Missiles, anti-armor missiles, small arms ammunition, demolitions munitions for obstacle clearing, equipment to protect critical national infrastructure, and spare parts, ancillary equipment, services, training, and transportation.

Until Russia ends this war by stopping its brutal attacks and withdrawing its forces from Ukraine, it is critical for the United States to continue to lead the coalition we have built of more than 50 countries standing strongly with Ukraine. Unless Congress acts to pass the Presidents national security supplemental funding request, this will be one of the last security assistance packages we can provide to Ukraine, the message reads.

The U.S. Department of State said that helping Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression and secure its future advances our national security interests and contributes to global stability around the world, and we need Congress to act immediately.
More than $950,000 has been raised for the recovery of one of the three college students of Palestinian descent who was shot in Vermont and is currently paralyzed from the chest down, according to a GoFundMe page set up by his family.

One of the bullets that hit Hisham Awartani on Nov. 25 is lodged in his spine, his family said.

Hishams first thoughts were for his friends, then for his parents who were thousands of miles away. He has demonstrated remarkable courage, resilience and fortitude  even a sense of humor  even as the reality of his paralysis sets in, the fundraising page, which was set up on Saturday, states.

Awartani, Kinnan Abdalhamid and Tahseen Ali Ahmad are childhood friends who graduated from a private Quaker school in the West Bank and now attend colleges in the eastern U.S. The 20-year-olds were visiting Awartani's relatives in Burlington for the Thanksgiving break. They were walking to the house of Hisham's grandmother for dinner when they were shot in an unprovoked attack, the family said.

The young men were speaking in a mix of English and Arabic and two of them were also wearing the black-and-white Palestinian keffiyeh scarves when they were shot, Burlington Police Chief Jon Murad said. Authorities are investigating the shooting as a possible hate crime.

In a cruelly ironic twist, Hishams parents had recommended he not return home over winter break, suggesting he would be safer in the US with his grandmother, the fundraising page states. Burlington is a second home to Hisham, who has spent summers and happy holidays with his family there. It breaks our hearts that these young men did not find safety in his home away from home.

All three were seriously injured. Abdalhamid was released from the hospital last week.

The suspected gunman, Jason J. Eaton, 48, was arrested the following day at his Burlington apartment, where he answered the door with his hands raised and told federal agents he had been waiting for them. Eaton has pleaded not guilty to three counts of attempted murder and is currently being held without bail.

The shooting came as threats against Jewish, Muslim and Arab communities have increased across the U.S. in the weeks since the the Israel-Hamas war erupted in early October.

Awartani, who speaks seven languages, is pursuing a dual degree in math and archaeology at Brown University, where he is also a teaching assistant, the fundraising page said. He told his college professors that he is determined to start the next semester on time, according to the fundraiser.

"We, his family, believe that Hisham will change the world," the fundraising page states. Hell change the world through his spirit, his mind and his compassion for those much more vulnerable than himself, especially the thousands of dead in Gaza and many more struggling to survive the devastating humanitarian crisis unfolding there.
U.S. President Joe Biden assured on Wednesday that the G7 countries are ready to continue to provide assistance to Ukraine.

He said, making a statement on the topic of Ukraine at the White House, that he had just had a meeting with the G7 partners, and they discussed that issue. According to him, all European leaders, they all are ready to support Ukraine.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Coordinator of Brussels Diplomatic Academy Jean De Brabander told Trend he was struck by the sincerity of speech of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges".

President Ilham Aliyev did not avoid any issues, there were no taboos. He dwelled on all topics in detail, he noted.

De Brabander also mentioned that he was very glad to have the opportunity to visit the liberated territories of Azerbaijan.

I visited your country for the first time in 2018, and since then, I think this is the eighth or ninth time I have come to Azerbaijan. So I am very happy to return, he emphasized.

I believe Azerbaijan still has a lot of work to do, at least from what I see. However, what you have already achieved in restoring the liberated territories is quite impressive. Being here has helped me better understand the situation in Azerbaijan, De Brabander said.

The forum co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations has been attended by 60 foreign experts from 30 countries.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Claims began to circulate in Chinese-language social media posts that Hsiao Bi-khim, a vice presidential nominee of Taiwans Democratic Progressive Party in the Jan. 13 presidential election, is unable to speak Mandarin and that Hsiao is a U.S. citizen.

But the claims are false. Hsiao has been seen in public speaking Mandarin fluently on many occasions. It is true that Hsiao used to hold American and Taiwanese passports, but she renounced her U.S. citizenship after becoming a DPP legislator in 2002.

The claim was shared here on the popular Chinese social media platform Weibo on Nov. 25.

The female toad [referring to Hsiao] is preparing to become the vice president of Taiwan. But she cant even speak Mandarin, reads the claim in part.

The claim was shared alongside a 50-second clip that shows Hsiao making a public speech in English.

Keyword searches on Google found the clip was taken from a recording of the 2024 Presidential Election International Press Cvent with DPP Vice-President Candidate Bi-khim Hsiao held on Nov. 23 in Taipei.

A Weibo account posted a video showing only the English portion of Hsiaos responses at a bilingual press conference, claiming that she could not speak Mandarin. (Screenshot/Weibo)

Hsiao, Taiwans former representative to the United States, was recently announced as the running mate of the DPP candidate William Lai in next months Taiwanese presidential elections.

Born to a Taiwanese father and an American mother in Japan, Hsiao is Taiwans first vice presidential candidate of foreign descent since the island began holding direct elections in 1996.

Since the announcement, a wave of misinformation about Hsiao has appeared on Chinese and international social media. In an attempt to influence public opinion concerning Taiwans upcoming election, these comments echo statements from Chinas Taiwan Affairs Office labeling both Lai and Hsiao as Taiwanese separatists.

For instance, some online users claim that Hsiao is an unreliable choice for Taiwanese vice president since she still holds U.S. citizenship.

Such comments follow a second round of Chinese sanctions against Hsiao in April 2023, prohibiting her from entering Mainland China, Hong Kong or Macao and banning companies in these regions from engaging in business with enterprises affiliated with her.

But the claims are false.

Mandarin ability and citizenship

The video, shared in the false Weibo post, only shows a portion of the press conference where Hsiao was speaking in English.

Throughout the conference, the vice president hopeful was seen exchanging questions and answers in both English and Mandarin with participants.

For instance, at one-minute and 54-second mark of this video published by the Associated Press, Hsiao can be seen answering a reporters question in Mandarin.

She has been seen in public speaking Mandarin fluently on many occasions, as seen here and here.

The claim that Hsiao holds U.S. citizenship is also false. While Hsiao used to hold passports of the U.S. and Taiwan, she renounced her U.S. citizenship after becoming a DPP legislator in 2002.

U.S. federal records show that Hsiao renounced her U.S. citizenship in 2002. (Screenshot/U.S. Federal Register)





Narrative control through social media censorship

AFCL found that the substantial number of Taiwanese voices in support of Lai and Hsiao are invisible to many online users in mainland China, amplifying the misinformation on the candidates.

As with all online speech in China, internet censorship has carefully screened information about Taiwans upcoming election, so that only facts and perspectives in support of Beijings official viewpoints are allowed to be disseminated on social media.

Apart from that Taiwan is a key target of repeated cyberattacks organized by China, with analysts expecting such disinformation campaigns to increase in the lead up to the presidential election, according to a report by The New York Times, citing a research from the Digital Society Project. That research, seen by AFCL, shows Taiwan is one of the countries being affected the most by foreign governments dissemination of false information.

Chinas disinformation efforts directed at Taiwan generally seek to divide and demoralize Taiwan society, the report said.

Translated by Shen Ke. Edited by Taejun Kang and Malcolm Foster.

Asia Fact Check Lab (AFCL) was established to counter disinformation in todays complex media environment. We publish fact-checks, media-watches and in-depth reports that aim to sharpen and deepen our readers understanding of current affairs and public issues. If you like our content, you can also follow us on Facebook and X.
Official directives highlight the coronavirus as one of several respiratory illnesses ripping through the country.

Children and their parents wait in an outpatient area at a childrens hospital in Beijing on Nov. 23, 2023. Chinese health officials have blamed the surge of sickness on a variety of pathogens, including mycoplasma pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus, seasonal influenza and COVID-19.

Authorities in China have started testing people for COVID-19 again in hospitals and transportation hubs as a wave of respiratory disease tears through the country, according to local residents and government directives.

As parents and children continued to flock to pediatric clinics and emergency rooms in Beijing with severe respiratory disease, hospitals are once more performing COVID-19 tests on patients, although there has been little on the news regarding a resurgence of the virus, new variants of which are emerging globally.

Chinese health officials have acknowledged the spike in pneumonia and other respiratory cases, blaming a cocktail of pathogens including mycoplasma pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus, seasonal influenza and COVID-19.

Now, government documents are starting to warn about a new wave of coronavirus infections in particular, with the State Council ordering local authorities to resume testing and disease monitoring at ports and airports, in schools, care homes and other institutions.

"All localities should strengthen prevention and control in elderly care, childcare, schools, social welfare and other institutions as well as confined spaces, and urge daily protection and health monitoring," a Nov. 24 State Council directive warned.

At least 2 million people are estimated to have died when the first wave of Omicron infections swept the country after the lifting of restrictions under ruling Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping's zero-COVID policy.

Hated tracker app

Unconfirmed reports have been swirling on social media that local governments are starting to reactivate the hated "Health Code" COVID-19 tracker app, which was once used to confine people to their homes or to mass quarantine camps.

"I took my child to hospital to get a nucleic acid test [for COVID-19]," a Beijing resident who gave only the surname Yu for fear of reprisals told RFA Mandarin on Wednesday. "My daughter had been for emergency treatment at the People's Liberation Army General Hospital pediatric department, and after triage ... she was told to get a nucleic acid test."

"It seems that a mutated strain of COVID is back, but the virus isn't being mentioned on the news," Yu said. "I can't figure out what's happening."

A health worker waits for people to take swab samples to test for COVID-19 in Shanghai on Dec. 19, 2022. Chinese government documents are starting to warn about a new wave of COVID-19 infections. (Hector Retamal/AFP)





A Beijing resident who gave only the surname Wu for fear of reprisals said some places in the city are offering free COVID-19 tests.

"I heard that they're not charging now because they want people to cooperate," Wu said. "They're testing at the bigger railway stations and international airports and at some conference venues."

A directive from the Ministry of Education dated Dec. 4 called on schools around the country to take steps to mitigate the wave of "winter disease," specifically naming COVID-19, which isn't seasonal.

"According to the judgment of the health and disease control departments, the global COVID-19 pandemic is still under way, and the COVID-19 virus is still mutating," the directive said.

"This winter and next spring, we may face superimposed epidemics of multiple respiratory diseases," it warned, citing a State Council ruling on "preventing and controlling new COVID-19 infections."

Fearing a resurgence

Health officials have been telling people to wear masks, wash their hands and ventilate indoor spaces to prevent the spread of disease.

A Beijing resident who gave only the surname Zhao said the government seems to fear a resurgence of the coronavirus, adding that many of the cases of "pneumonia" and other respiratory diseases have symptoms that are basically indistinguishable from COVID without a test.

"The propaganda is saying that these cases are caused by mycoplasma pneumonia, yet I also heard that the [SARS-CoV2] virus has mutated," Zhao said. "I'm not a doctor, so I don't know exactly which disease it is."

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control is currently tracking a number of "variants of concern," including Omicron BA.2.75 that was first detected in India and Omicron XBB.1.5-like (a) that was first detected in the United States.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is monitoring a larger number of COVID-19 variants but hasn't designated any variants of concern.

People queue to buy antigen test kits at a pharmacy amid the Covid-19 pandemic in Xian, in China's northern Shaanxi province on Dec. 20, 2022. A Beijing resident says some places there are offering free COVID-19 tests to encourage people to get tested. (AFP)





Social media posts showed documents from the 2023 China Textile Industry Federation Science and Technology Awards Conference, which is scheduled for Dec. 6 in Beijing, requiring all participants to present a certificate certifying a negative COVID test dated the day before.

"For a conference starting on Dec. 6, they want a test dated Dec. 5, and they're not letting anyone in without a health clearance certificate," Beijing resident Wu said.

Wu said he knows a lot of people who are currently sick, with "a very bad flu."

"They suspect that maybe it's COVID, but officials are saying it's the flu," he said.

Kids infected

Repeated calls to the People's Liberation Army General Hospital pediatric clinic, Beijing's Chaoyang Hospital and several other hospitals rang unanswered during office hours on Wednesday.

A kindergarten principal in the central city of Shaoyang who gave only the surname Shao for fear of reprisals said most of the children are sick with "fever."

"A lot of kids are infected," Shao said. "In one class, only three kids turned up for school, and the rest were off sick."

A resident of Hunan's provincial capital Changsha who gave only the surname Chen said authorities there are also getting ready to start COVID-19 testing again.

"We're going to start nucleic acid testing again," Chen said. "Right now, our hospitals are full of kids."

"The directive has already come through  people in the government are saying that it's better to rely on just testing [as opposed to other restrictive measures]," he said.

Chen said he has no wish to return to the days of zero-COVID, which ended in December 2022 amid nationwide protests.

"The thing I fear most is another lockdown," he said.

Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster.
Autocratic governments have been attempting to silence journalists in the U.S. and other Western nations through a campaign of coercion and intimidation that includes physical assaults, the Freedom House, a Washington-based organization that studies global democracy, said in a report released on Wednesday.

Government officials in China, Cambodia and at least two dozen other countries have targeted journalists in exile, trying to stop them from reporting in a critical manner about their home countries, the report said.

Since 2014, Freedom House has documented 112 incidents by 26 governments  to include kidnappings, physical assaults and assassination attempts  against journalists working in other countries. That figure likely only represents a fraction of the true total, given that many episodes are unreported and conclusively verifying perpetrators is difficult, the report states.

One journalist in exile, Elena Kostyuchenko, who has for years reported on inhumane practices of the Russian government, was hospitalized in Berlin because of suspected poisoning.

The apparent attack on her, as well as assaults against other journalists, are cited in the report.

Journalist Elena Kostyuchenko, who has reported on the Russian governments inhumane practices, was hospitalized in Berlin in Oct. 2022 after a suspected poisoning. (Screenshot from Reuters video)

Authorities from China, Cambodia and other governments have threatened and stalked journalists in the U.S., the report stated. In some cases, the foreign authorities have doxxed the reporters or engaged in smear campaigns against them in an attempt to stop their coverage of their home countries or at least mute the impact of their journalism.

The goal is often to crush opposing points of view in order to maintain control over citizens living abroad and shape the narratives about their nations. This hardline method is known in the West as transnational repression.

Crushing dissent abroad

The effort of President Xi Jinping and other officials in Beijing to shape the worlds view of China has been underway for years.

Case studies included in the report illustrate the phenomenon: Chinese government authorities have detained and harassed family members of U.S.-based Uyghur journalists who are reporting on human-rights violations in Xinjiang. The report alleges that Chinese authorities detain the family members in order to put pressure on the exiled journalists so they will stop writing stories deemed critical of Chinese policies.

Officials who work for the Chinese government say accusations that it is trying to silence journalists outside of the country are baseless.

China firmly opposes the false narrative of transnational repression, wrote Liu Pengyu, the spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, in an email to RFA. We urge the related organization to abandon its Cold War mentality and stop the smears and attacks against China.

Journalist Mahammad Mirzali, based in France, who blogs about his home country, Azerbaijan, was attacked in 2021 by a group of men wielding knives. He is shown in a 2022 photo. (Loic Venance/AFP)

In another example included in the report, journalist Mahammad Mirzali, based in France, had for some time received online threats but continued writing about his home country, Azerbaijan, on a blog. Then, in 2021, he was attacked by a group of men wielding knives. The assailants, wrote the authors of the Freedom House report, may have been sent by the Azerbaijani government.

In addition, a U.S.-based journalist from Cambodia said he worries he is being spied on. In this uneasy atmosphere, the journalist, Taing Sarada, a former RFA employee who currently works for The Cambodia Daily, said he also has concerns about his physical safety.

Officials from the Cambodian Embassy in Washington did not immediately comment on the findings of the Freedom House report.

Journalists fight back



The report stated that fake social-media accounts have been created, imitating real-life accounts of journalists, in an effort to discredit these individuals and their reporting. The methods of the authoritarian governments can have a chilling effect on those journalists working in the U.S, according to the report, causing some reporters to mute their accounts or to step away from journalism entirely.

Gulchehra Hoja, a Uyghur American journalist who works for RFA, says her relatives are being held in internment camps in China. She is pictured at the China's Shame session at the 10th Anniversary Women In The World Summit on April 11, 2019 in New York City. (Johannes Eisele/AFP)

Yet others have been emboldened by the authoritarian government campaigns to control their reporting.

Theres a huge amount of strength among the journalists who continue to fight for the truth, which is what their governments back home most fear, Jessica White, one of the reports co-authors, said.

One of the journalists featured in the report, Gulchehra Hoja, a Uyghur American journalist who works for RFA, said that her relatives are being held in internment camps in China. This has not stopped her from reporting on the activities of the Chinese government.

It encouraged me to work more, said Hoja, referring to the tactics of the Chinese authorities. Hoja said that the strong-arm efforts of the Chinese officials have only fueled her desire to find out what the Chinese government is really doing, and to show to the world.

Edited by Jim Snyder
Congress is told Beijing is the world leader on transnational repression that forces critics to 'shut up.'

British barrister Caoilfhionn Gallagher says she and her colleagues have been targeted by pro-China abuse online.

Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lais legal team and son are being harassed with death and rape threats to discourage advocacy for the jailed pro-democracy businessman, his lawyer said Wednesday.

Caoilfhionn Gallagher of Doughty Street Chambers, a law firm with a focus on international human rights, told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that Lais lawyers are regularly targeted by Hong Kong authorities, Chinese state media and anonymous internet users.

Gallagher said the coordinated campaign of abuse was heightened whenever she or Lais son, Sebastien, were set to speak at high-profile events, with upticks, in particular, of threatening online messages.

They come thick and fast on key days for the case, she told the committee. I woke up this morning to 17 different rape and death threats on a day when Im giving evidence before this committee.

Lai is the founder of clothing brand Giordano and pro-democracy Hong Kong newspaper Apple Daily. He was arrested in 2020 and charged with violating Hong Kongs national security law, and was then hit with a slew of extra charges, including fraud and illegal demonstration.

Jailed media mogul Jimmy Lai walks through Stanley prison in Hong Kong, July 28, 2023. (Louise Delmotte/AP)

He was sentenced last year to five years and nine months in prison after being convicted of fraud, but is still awaiting trial for the original charges of violating the controversial national security law.

Comprehensive and sophisticated

Gallagher said the online threats were only part of the transnational repression faced by Lais support team, noting her team was frequently accused in Chinese state media of being foreign agents themselves committing crimes under Hong Kongs national security law.

Importantly, none of us are Hong Kongers. None of us are in exile. None of us are dissidents, Gallagher said, adding Lai was also accused of violating the law by employing foreign lawyers.

It had already been made clear to Sebastien that he would face criminal charges, like his father, if he ever returned to Hong Kong, she said. But the threats against the lawyers made even less sense.

We are international lawyers working for our clients, seeking to hold China and Hong Kong to account for flagrant violations of generalized and fundamental rights protected by international law, Gallagher said.

The campaign by China/Hong Kong to silence dissent and critical voices and to shut down international scrutiny of their actions is comprehensive and sophisticated, she said. It extends to anyone, anywhere in the world who dares to question their narrative.

Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Ben Cardin, a Democrat from Maryland, replied that the testimony was chilling information that demonstrated autocracies like China were trying to export their repression into the worlds free societies.

Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., talks during a Senate Finance Committee business meeting on Capitol Hill, Nov. 28, 2023. He says Wednesdays testimony really does present a damning situation where transnational repression is really eating at the core of our own democracy. (Mariam Zuhaib/AP)

It really does present a damning situation where transnational repression is really eating at the core of our own democracy, because many of the victims are being persecuted because of participating here in the United States in our open society, Cardin said.

That is a direct attack on our system of government and it compromises our ability to get objective information, he said.

Transnational repression

Freedom House President Michael Abramovitz told the committee he believed China was the world leader in transnational repression.

Abramovitzs organization on Wednesday released a report detailing 112 incidents of transnational repression committed against journalists by 26 governments since 2014. But he said China led the way.

They conduct the most sophisticated, global and comprehensive transnational repression in the world, Abramovitz said, explaining that Beijing targeted ethnic and religious minorities, political dissidents, human rights activists, journalists and former insiders.

It's a full range of tactics, from direct attacks like kidnapping dissidents, co-opting other countries to detain their dissidents, and also, in the case of the Uyghurs, he said, threatening their families to get their family members living in the free world to basically shut up.

Abramovitz said he believed it was near impossible to conjure tactics to discourage Beijing from pursuing such global tactics.

It's very difficult to influence China directly, he said.

But he pointed to Chinas efforts to co-opt international fora like the [U.N.] Human Rights Council in Geneva to help silence its advocacy, too, as something the United States should work to combat.

The committee was also told about the potential ways in which exiled Chinese political dissidents could one day be targeted for reprisals.

Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, a Republican from New Hampshire, said she was concerned that the extensive collection of DNA of people in China would make it harder for dissidents to escape into safety.

Christo Grozev, a Bulgarian investigative journalist who co-founded the Bellingcat news outlet, replied that a comprehensive database would allow Beijing to eliminate the ability of foreign governments to offer protection with the usual, traditional methods of witness protection.

The one biometric that you cannot change is DNA, he said. You can change the face, you can change fingerprints, but you cannot change DNA. So theoretically, the Chinese government could use that to verify the identity of their enemies even after they've received protection.

Edited by Malcolm Foster.
The U.S. militarys purported plan to station intermediate-range missiles in Guam is likely to heighten concerns among some Pacific island countries of a new era of militarization of their region, analysts said.

The United States withdrew from a decades-old treaty with Russia in 2019 that prohibited use of ground-launched missiles with a range of 500-5,500 kilometers  a decision that potentially gives the U.S. more flexibility to respond to Chinas increased military strength, but also faces practical resistance from its allies in Asia.

Gen. Charles Flynn, commanding general for U.S. Army Pacific, told an international security forum in mid-November that the U.S. intends to deploy HIMARS, SM-6s, and Tomahawk missiles into the Indo Pacific  the U.S. term for an area spanning East Asia and the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

We intend to deploy that system into the region. Im not going to say where or when, Flynn said at the Halifax Security Forum, according to an emailed statement Tuesday from the U.S. Army.

The plans were highlighted by a Nikkei report on Dec. 3, which citing a U.S. army spokesman, said the deployment would occur in 2024. Reports by Rand Corporation and Carnegie Endowment for International Peace  U.S. think tanks  say the American territory of Guam in the Pacific is the most likely location because of the reluctance of U.S. allies in Asia to host the missile systems.

Competition between China and the U.S. has been sharpest in East Asia due to possible flashpoints such as Taiwan  which China regards as a rebel province  and Beijings claims to the South China Sea that overlap with the claims of Southeast Asian nations.

Because of the intermediate-range forces treaty with Russia, the U.S. had previously faced a structural constraint on its military power in Asia, according to a report in October by Carnegie Endowment analyst Ankit Panda, while China did not.

U.S. Army Pacific Commanding General Charles A. Flynn meets Japan's Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi (not in the picture) in Tokyo, Japan September 9, 2022. (Reuters]

The Pacific has also become a focus for the rivalry as the U.S. responds to Chinas inroads with island states that were neglected by Washington over recent decades. U.S. interest in the Pacific was particularly galvanized after the Solomon Islands signed a security agreement with China early last year.

Tess Newton Cain, a Pacific analyst at Griffith Asia Institute, said the possibility of intermediate-range missiles in Guam is exactly an example of the militarization that some Pacific nations have been concerned about happening in their neighborhood.

The Pacific Islands Forum, a grouping of 18 nations that includes Australia and New Zealand, has already been concerned about the U.S. not accepting the principles of the 1989 Treaty of Rarotonga, which declared the South Pacific a nuclear-free zone, she said.

Australias increased closeness to the U.S, particularly via the AUKUS pact to equip Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, also has raised questions about its commitment to a nuclear-free region, Newton Cain said.

At their summit in November, leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum nations said they had welcomed a proposal from Fijis Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for the Pacific to be a zone of peace.

This moment is an opportunity for us islanders of the Pacific to shape a common destiny built around peace, Rabuka said, according to the island forums statement.

Henryk Szadziewski, a researcher at the University of Hawaiis Center for Pacific Island Studies, said the zone of peace proposal was a clear statement to redirect energies from a traditional security build up towards the non-traditional security concerns of livelihoods.

Civil society in Guam has been equally vocal about their land becoming a target due to the extensive U.S. military presence, he said.

However, leaders of North Pacific island nations that have close security and economic ties to the U.S. through compacts of free association have tended to be more concerned about a China threat, Szadziewski said.

Palaus President Surangel Whipps said in October he wants the U.S. to station Patriot air-defense missiles in his nation so it has the same protection from attack as Guam.

The U.S. is also building an over-the-horizon radar facility in Palau.

BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated online news organization.
The school and others like it are seen as vital to preserving Tibetan culture in the face of Chinese rule.

The Dalai Lama holds a special audience with the first seven Ph.D. students from The Dalai Lama Institute for Higher Education in Dharamshala, India, Monday, Dec. 4, 2023.

The first group of Ph.D. students have graduated from a university promoting the educational and cultural initiatives of Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama in the southern Indian city of Bangalore.

The seven students were recognized in a ceremony at the Dalai Lama Institute for Higher Education  the first of its kind in the world  on Nov. 30 and met with the Dalai Lama at his residence-in-exile on Monday in the Himachal Pradesh state town of Dharamsala.

The seven received doctorate degrees in the field of Tibetan Studies.

Institute Director Geshe Lobsang Gyaltsen called the milestone a moment of pride and gratitude for all of us.

With years of guidance and support from His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and [his younger sister] Jetsun Pema, today we are very happy to celebrate the first batch of seven Ph.D. students graduating from this institute, the director told RFA Tibetan.

Geshe Lobsang Monlam, one of the graduating students and the founder of the Monlam Tibetan IT Research Center, said the theses completed as part of the doctoral program "will be of benefit as a great source of information, adding that his own work had focused on a Tibetan digital library and archival conservation of Tibetan cultural and religious resources.

The Dalai Lama speaks during the inauguration of The Dalai Lama Institute of Higher Studies in Bangalore, India, on Dec. 14, 2016. (Manjunath Kiran/AFP)

Formed in 2016, the Dalai Lama Institute for Higher Education is part of the Tibetan Childrens Village, a charitable organization for child care and educational services. The institute describes its mission as working to ensure that all Tibetan children under its care receive a sound modern education and a firm cultural identity, so they can become self-reliant and contributing members of the community and the world at large.

The Dalai Lama is associated with various initiatives focused on promoting Tibetan culture, language, and values, as well as fostering higher education at institutions including the Dalai Lama Institute for Higher Education and the Central University of Tibetan Studies in the Himachal Pradesh city of Sarnath.

These initiatives are considered vital at a time when Chinese authorities are increasing their grip on Tibet with policies that seek to eliminate the regions linguistic, cultural and religious traditions, especially among younger generations of Tibetans.

Authorities have eliminated the teaching of subjects in the Tibetan language in schools in the Tibetan Autonomous Region as well as in those in Tibetan-populated areas in Chinas western provinces. They also have forcibly assimilated more than 1 million Tibetan children into state-run boarding schools.

Another of the Dalai Lama Institute for Higher Educations Ph.D. graduates, Geshe Lobsang Ngodup, told RFA that he was honored to present his thesis on classical Tibetan grammar and adjective constructions to the Dalai Lama during their meeting this week.

I hope down the line the younger generations will find [my work] helpful and resourceful in preserving our Tibetan language, he said.

Translated by Tenzin Dickyi for RFA Tibetan. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Malcolm Foster.
The government removed the abbot following violent clashes at Dai Tho Pagoda.

Updated Dec. 05, 2023, 11:08 p.m. ET.

A Buddhist pagoda serving the ethnic Khmer Krom group in Vietnams Vinh Long province has long been the target of government-backed religious repression, a senior monk at the Dai Tho Pagoda told Radio Free Asia.

On Monday, state-controlled media reported that the pagodas abbot, Thach Chanh Da Ra, had been stripped of his position for violating the charter of the government-approved Vietnam Buddhist Sangha and breaking state laws.

Duong Khai, in charge of security and protecting the heritage of the pagoda, told RFA the monks suffered government harassment because they practiced Therevada, the type of Buddhism followed by most Khmer Krom in Vietnam.

Duong Khai said people in plain clothes often threatened monks at the pagoda and the government confiscated the bicycles they used to travel the neighborhood collecting alms.

Tensions came to a head on Nov. 22, when a working group from the Tam Binh District Peoples Committee, representatives of the Loan My Commune Peoples Committee and two Buddhists representing locals visited Dai Tho Pagoda, according to the Tuoi Tre newspaper.

It said abbot Thach Chanh Da Ra incited people to attack the visitors and then locked them in the main hall, preventing them from leaving.

Duong Khai described events differently from the state-controlled newspaper.

"When the abbot took out his phone, one of the officials hit the phone with his elbow, then a representative of the State government kicked the phone outside allowing plainclothes police to take it away.

The abbot fell and when they kicked the phone they hit the abbots finger, making it bleed. His knee was scratched when he fell so the abbot brought the government people into the main hall to make them apologize according to old customs.

According to a video provided by locals at the time, monks holding sticks protected the inside of the temple yard while outside people in civilian clothes yelled, cursed and finally kicked down the temple door.

According to the Tuoi Tre newspaper monks agreed to release members of the working group at around 4 p.m. It did not mention anyone kicking down the door.

RFA called the Tam Binh district police on Tuesday to check details of the case but the officer on duty asked the reporter to visit in person to get the information.

According to RFA Khmer, Thach Chanh Da Ra was targeted by authorities because he welcomed Khmer Krom activists like Duong Khai at the Dai Tho pagoda.

Nearly 1.3-million Khmer Krom live in a part of Vietnam that was once southeastern Cambodia. They have faced serious restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly and movement.

The Vietnamese government has long sought to restrict and control the Khmer Krom temples because they understand the pivotal role that Theravadan Buddhism plays in Khmer Krom culture and society, Phil Robertson, the deputy Asia director for Human Rights Watch, told RFA.

This latest example of the authorities blatant interference in the Khmer Krom peoples freedom of religion and belief is outrageous and unacceptable and the U.N. and foreign embassies in Vietnam should strongly condemn this intrusion.

Translated by RFA Vietnamese. Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang.

Updated to include comments from Human Rights Watch.
We asked some of our most perceptive journalists and analysts to anticipate tomorrow, to unravel the future, to forecast what the new year could have in store for our vast broadcast region. Among their predictions:

The war in Ukraine will persist until the West realizes that a return to the previous world order is unattainable.

In Iran, with parliamentary elections scheduled for March, the government is likely to face yet another challenge to its legitimacy.

In Belarus, setbacks for Russia in Ukraine could prompt the Lukashenka regime to attempt to normalize relations with the West.

While 2024 will see a rightward shift in the EU, it is unlikely to bring the deluge of populist victories that some are predicting.

The vicious spiral for women in Afghanistan will only worsen.

Peace between Armenia and its neighbors could set the stage for a Russian exit from the region.

Hungary's upcoming leadership of the European Council could prove a stumbling block to the start of EU accession talks with Ukraine.

Kyrgyzstan is on course to feel the pain of secondary sanctions over Russias invasion of Ukraine if the West's patience runs out.

Here, then, are our correspondents' predictions for 2024. To find out more about the authors themselves, click on their bylines.

The Ukraine War: A Prolonged Stalemate

By Vitaliy Portnikov

In September 2022, Ukrainian generals Valeriy Zaluzhniy and Mykhaylo Zabrodskiy presciently warned that Russia's aggression against Ukraine would unfold into a protracted conflict. Fast forward 15 months, and the front line is effectively frozen, with neither Ukrainian nor Russian offensives yielding substantial changes.

As 2023 comes to a close, observers find themselves revisiting themes familiar from the previous year: the potential for a major Ukrainian counteroffensive, the extent of Western aid to Kyiv, the possibility of a "frozen conflict, security assurances for Ukraine, and the prospects for its Euro-Atlantic integration ahead of a NATO summit.

It is conceivable that, by the close of 2024, we will still be grappling with these same issues. A political resolution seems elusive, given the Kremlin's steadfast refusal to entertain discussions on vacating the parts of Ukraine its forces occupy. Conversely, Ukraines definition of victory is the full restoration of its territorial integrity.

Even if, in 2024, one side achieves a military victory -- whether through the liberation of part of Ukraine or Russia seizing control of additional regions -- it won't necessarily bring us closer to a political resolution. Acknowledging this impasse is crucial, as Russian President Vladimir Putin's assault on Ukraine is part of a broader agenda: a push to reestablish, if not the Soviet Empire, at least its sphere of influence.

Even if, in 2024, one side achieves a military victory, it won't necessarily bring us closer to a political resolution.

For Ukraine, resistance to Russian aggression is about not just reclaiming occupied territories but also safeguarding statehood, political identity, and national integrity. Western support is crucial for Ukraine's survival and the restoration of its territorial integrity. However, this backing aims to avoid escalation into a direct conflict between Russia and the West on Russia's sovereign territory.

The war's conclusion seems contingent on the depletion of resources on one of the two sides, with Ukraine relying on continued Western support and Russia on oil and gas revenues. Hence, 2024 might echo the patterns of 2023. Even if external factors shift significantly -- such as in the U.S. presidential election in November -- we might not witness tangible changes until 2025.

Another potential variable is the emergence of major conflicts akin to the war in the Gaza Strip. Nevertheless, this would likely signify the dissipation of Western resources rather than a shift in approaches to war.

In essence, the war in Ukraine will persist until the West realizes that a return to the previous world order is unattainable. Constructing a new world order demands unconventional measures, such as offering genuine security guarantees to nations victimized by aggression or achieving peace, or at least limiting the zone of military operations to the current contact line, without direct agreements with Russia.

So far, such understanding is lacking, and the expectation that Moscow will eventually grasp the futility of its ambitions only emboldens Putin. Consequently, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine will endure, potentially spawning new, equally perilous local wars worldwide.

Iran: Problems Within And Without

By Hannah Kaviani

Iran has been dealing with complex domestic and international challenges for years and the same issues are likely to plague it in 2024. But officials in Tehran appear to be taking a wait-and-see approach to its lengthy list of multilayered problems.

Iran enters 2024 as Israel's war in Gaza continues and the prospects for a peaceful Middle East are bleak, with the situation exacerbated by militia groups firmly supported by Tehran.

Irans prominent role in supporting paramilitary forces in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen has also drawn the ire of the international community and will continue to be a thorn in the side of relations with the West.

Tehran has refused to cooperate with the UNs International Atomic Energy Agency over its nuclear program, resulting in an impasse in talks with the international community. And with the United States entering an election year that could see the return of Donald Trump to the presidency, the likelihood of Tehran and Washington resuming negotiations -- which could lead to a reduction in sanctions -- is considered very low.

But Iran's problems are not limited to outside its borders.

Another critical issue Iranian officials must continue to deal with in 2024 is the devastated economy.

The countrys clerical regime is still reeling from the massive protests that began in 2022 over the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody after her arrest for not obeying hijab rules. The aftershocks of the Women, Life, Freedom movement that emanated from her death were reflected in acts of civil disobedience that are likely to continue in 2024.

At the same time, a brutal crackdown continues as civil rights activists, students, religious minorities, and artists are being beaten, detained, and/or given harsh prison sentences.

With parliamentary elections scheduled for March, the government is likely to face yet another challenge to its legitimacy as it struggles with low voter turnout and general disinterest in another round of controlled elections.

Another critical issue Iranian officials must continue to deal with in 2024 is the devastated economy resulting from the slew of international sanctions because of its controversial nuclear program. After a crushing year of 47 percent inflation in 2023 (a 20-year high, according to the IMF), costs are expected to continue to rise for many foods and commodities, as well as real estate.

Irans widening budget deficit due to reduced oil profits continues to cripple the economy, with the IMF reporting that the current government debt is equal to three annual budgets.

With neither the international community nor the hard-line Tehran regime budging, most analysts see scant chances for significant changes in Iran in the coming year.

Belarus: Wider War Role, Integration With Russia Not In The Cards

By Valer Karbalevich

Belarus has been pulled closer into Moscows orbit than ever by Russias war in Ukraine -- but in 2024, its unlikely to be subsumed into the much larger nation to its east, and chances are it wont step up its so-far limited involvement in the conflict in the country to its south.

The most probable scenario in Belarus, where the authoritarian Alyaksandr Lukashenka will mark 30 years since he came to power in 1994, is more of the same: No letup in pressure on all forms of dissent at home, no move to send troops to Ukraine. And while Russias insistent embrace will not loosen, the Kremlin will abstain from using Belarusian territory for any new ground attacks or bombardments of Ukraine.

But the war in Ukraine is a wild card, the linchpin influencing the trajectory of Belarus in the near term and beyond. For the foreseeable future, what happens in Belarus -- or to it -- will depend in large part on what happens in Russias assault on Ukraine.

Should the current equilibrium on the front persist and Western support for Ukraine persist, the likelihood is a continuation of the status quo for Belarus. The country will maintain its allegiance to Russia, marked by diplomatic and political support. Bolstered by Russian loans, Belarus's defense industry will further expand its output.

If Russia wins or scores substantial victories in Ukraine, Lukashenka will reap "victory dividends."

The Belarusian state will continue to militarize the border with Ukraine, posing a perpetual threat to Kyiv and diverting Ukrainian troops from the eastern and southern fronts. At the same time, however, Russia is unlikely to use Belarusian territory as a launching point for fresh assaults on Ukraine, as it did at the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022.

If Russia wins or scores substantial victories -- if Ukraine is forced into negotiations on Moscows terms, for example, or the current front line comes to be considered the international border -- Lukashenka, consolidating his position within the country, will reap "victory dividends." But relations between Belarus and Russia are unlikely to change dramatically.

Potentially, Moscow could take major steps to absorb Belarus, diminishing its sovereignty and transforming its territory into a staging ground for a fresh assault on Kyiv. This would increase tensions with the West and heighten concerns about the tactical nuclear weapons Moscow and Minsk say Russia has transferred to Belarus. However, this seems unlikely due to the absence of military necessity for Moscow and the problems it could create on the global stage.

The loss of Belarusian sovereignty would pose a major risk for Lukashenka and his regime. An overwhelming majority of Belarusians oppose the direct involvement of Belarus in the war against Ukraine. This fundamental distinction sets Belarus apart from Russia, and bringing Belarus into the war could trigger a political crisis in Belarus -- an outcome Moscow would prefer to avoid.

If Russia loses the war or sustains significant defeats that weaken Putin, Lukashenka's regime may suffer economic and political repercussions. This could prompt him to seek alternative global alliances, potentially leading to an attempt to normalize relations with the West.

Russia, Ukraine, And The West: Sliding Toward World War III

By Sergei Medvedev

2024 will be a critical year for the war in Ukraine and for the entire international system, which is quickly unraveling before our eyes. The most crucial of many challenges is a revanchist, resentful, belligerent Russia, bent on destroying and remaking the world order. In his mind, President Vladimir Putin is fighting World War III, and Ukraine is a prelude to a global showdown.

Despite Western sanctions, Russia has consolidated its position militarily, domestically, and internationally in 2023. After setbacks and shocks in 2022, the military has stabilized the front and addressed shortages of arms, supplies, and manpower. Despite latent discontent, the population is not ready to question the war, preferring to stay in the bubble of learned ignorance and the lies of state propaganda.

Here are four scenarios for 2024:

Strategic stalemate in Ukraine, chaos in the international system: The West, relaxed by a 30-year peace dividend, lacks the vision and resolve of the 1980s, when its leaders helped bring about the U.S.S.R.s collapse, let alone the courage of those who stood up to Nazi Germany in World War II. Putins challenge to the free world is no less significant than Hitlers was, but there is no Roosevelt or Churchill in sight. Probability: 70 percent

While breakup into many regions is unlikely, the Russian empire could crumble at the edges.

Widening war, collapse or division of Ukraine: Russia could defend and consolidate its gains in Ukraine, waging trench warfare while continuing to destroy civilian infrastructure, and may consider a side strike in Georgia or Moldova -- or against Lithuania or Poland, testing NATO. A frontal invasion is less likely than a hybrid operation by unidentified units striking from Belarus, acts of sabotage, or unrest among Russian-speakers in the Baltic states. Other Kremlin operations could occur anywhere in the world. The collapse of Ukraines government or the division of the country could not be ruled out. Probability: 15 percent.

Russia loses in Ukraine: A military defeat for Russia, possibly entailing a partial or complete withdrawal from Ukraine. Consistent Western support and expanded supplies of arms, like F-16s or Abrams tanks, or a big move such as closing the skies over Ukraine, could provide for this outcome. It would not necessarily entail Russias collapse -- it could further consolidate the nation around Putins regime. Russia would develop a resentful identity grounded in loss and defeat -- and harbor the idea of coming back with a vengeance. Probability: 10 percent

Russias Collapse: A military defeat in Ukraine could spark social unrest, elite factional battles, and an anti-Putin coup, leading to his demotion or violent death. Putins natural death, too, could set off a succession struggle, causing chaos in a country he has rid of reliable institutions. While breakup into many regions is unlikely, the empire could crumble at the edges -- Kaliningrad, Chechnya, the Far East  like in 1917 and 1991. Russias nuclear weapons would be a big question mark, leading to external involvement and possible de-nuclearization. For all its perils, this scenario might provide a framework for future statehood in Northern Eurasia. Probability: 5 percent

EU: 'Fortress Europe' And The Ukraine War

By Rikard Jozwiak

2024 will see a rightward shift in the European Union, but it is unlikely to bring the deluge of populist victories that some are predicting since Euroskeptics won national elections in the Netherlands, Poland, and Slovakia and polled well in Austria and Germany.

The European Parliament elections in June will be the ultimate test for the bloc in that respect. Polls still suggest the two main political groups, the center-right European People's Party and the center-left Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats, will finish on top, albeit with a smaller share of the vote. But right-wing populist parties are likely to fail once again to agree on the creation of a single political group, thus eroding their influence in Brussels.

This, in turn, is likely to prod more pro-European groups into combining forces again to divvy up EU top jobs like the presidencies of the European Commission, the bloc's top executive body, and the European Council, which defines the EU's political direction and priorities. Center-right European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is widely tipped to get a second term, even though she might fancy NATO's top job as secretary-general. Charles Michel, on the other hand, will definitely be out as European Council president after serving the maximum five years.

While right-wing populists may not wield major influence in the horse-trading for those top jobs, they will affect policy going forward. They have already contributed to a hardening of attitudes on migration, and you can expect to hear more of the term "fortress Europe" as barriers go up on the EU's outer border.

The one surefire guarantee in Europe isn't about the European Union at all but rather about NATO.

The biggest question for 2024, however, is about how much support Brussels can provide Ukraine going forward. Could the "cost-of-living crisis" encourage members to side with Budapest to block financial aid or veto the start of de facto accession talks with that war-torn country? The smart money is still on the EU finding a way to green-light both those decisions in 2024, possibly by unfreezing more EU funds for Budapest.

Although it seems like a remote possibility, patience could also finally wear out with Hungary, and the other 26 members could decide to strip it of voting rights in the Council of the European Union, which amends, approves, and vetoes European Commission proposals -- essentially depriving it of influence. In that respect, Austria and Slovakia, Budapest's two biggest allies right now, are the EU countries to watch.

The one surefire guarantee in Europe isn't about the European Union at all but rather about NATO: After somehow failing to join as predicted for each of the past two years, against the backdrop of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Sweden will become the transatlantic military alliance's 32nd member once the Turkish and Hungarian parliaments vote to ratify its accession protocol.

Caucasus: A Peace Agreement Could Be Transformative

By Josh Kucera

Could 2024 be the year that Armenia and Azerbaijan finally formally resolve decades of conflict?

This year, Azerbaijan effectively decided -- by force -- their most contentious issue: the status of the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh. With its lightning offensive in September, Azerbaijan placed Karabakh firmly under its control. Both sides now say they've reached agreement on most of their fundamental remaining issues, and diplomatic talks, after an interruption, appear set to resume.

A resolution of the conflict could transform the region. If Armenia and Azerbaijan made peace, a Turkish-Armenian rapprochement could soon follow. Borders between the three countries would reopen as a result, ending Armenia's long geographical isolation and priming the South Caucasus to take full advantage of new transportation projects seeking to ship cargo between Europe and Asia while bypassing Russia.

Peace between Armenia and its neighbors also could set the stage for a Russian exit from the region. Russian-Armenian security cooperation has been predicated on potential threats from Azerbaijan and Turkey. With those threats reduced, what's keeping the Russian soldiers, peacekeepers, and border guards there?

There are mounting indications that Azerbaijan may not see it in its interests to make peace.

A Russian exit would be a messy process -- Moscow still holds many economic levers in Armenia -- but Yerevan could seek help from the United States and Europe to smooth any transition. Washington and Brussels have seemingly been waiting in the wings, nudging Armenia in their direction.

But none of this is likely to happen without a peace agreement. And while there don't seem to be any unresolvable issues remaining, there are mounting indications that Azerbaijan may not see it in its interests to make peace. Baku has gotten what it wanted most of all -- full control of Karabakh -- without an agreement. And maintaining a simmering conflict with Armenia could arguably serve Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev well, as it would allow him to continue to lean on a reliable source of public support: rallying against an Armenian enemy.

But perhaps the most conspicuous indication of a broader strategy is Aliyev's increasing invocation of "Western Azerbaijan" -- a hazily defined concept alluding to ethnic Azerbaijanis who used to live on the territory of what is now Armenia and their presumed right to return to their homes. It suggests that Azerbaijan might keep furthering its demands in hopes that Armenia finally throws in the towel, and each can accuse the other of intransigence.

Hungary: The Return Of Big Brother?

By Pablo Gorondi

Critics might be tempted to believe that Big Brother will be watching over Hungarians in 2024 like at no point since the fall of communism.

A new law on the Defense of National Sovereignty will allow the Office for the Defense of Sovereignty, which the law created, to investigate and request information from almost any group in Hungary that receives foreign funding. This will apply to civic groups, political parties, private businesses, media companies -- in fact, anyone deemed to be conducting activities (including "information manipulation and disinformation") in the interests of a foreign "body, organization, or person."

The law has been criticized by experts from the United Nations and the Council of Europe over its seemingly vague language, lack of judicial oversight, and fears that it could be used by the government "to silence and stigmatize independent voices and opponents."

The head of the Office for the Defense of Sovereignty should be nominated for a six-year term by right-wing Prime Minister Viktor Orban and appointed by President Katalin Novak by February 1. This would allow the new authority to carry out investigations and present findings ahead of simultaneous elections to the European Parliament and Hungarian municipal bodies in early June -- possibly influencing their outcomes.

Orban has said in recent interviews that he wants to "fix the European Union" and that "we need to take over Brussels."

Asked by RFE/RL's Hungarian Service, some experts said fears of the new authority are overblown and that the government is more likely to use it as a threat hanging over opponents than as a direct tool for repression -- at least until it finds it politically necessary or expedient to tighten control.

On the international scene, meanwhile, Hungary will take over the Council of the European Union's six-month rotating presidency in July, a few weeks after voting to determine the composition of a new European Parliament.

MEPs from Orban's Fidesz party exited the center-right European People's Party bloc in 2021 and have not joined another group since then, although some observers expect them to join the more Euroskeptic and nationalist European Conservatives and Reformists.

Orban has for years predicted a breakthrough of more radical right-wing forces in Europe. But while that has happened in Italy, the Netherlands, and Slovakia, experts suggest that's not enough to fuel a significant shift in the European Parliament, where the center-right and center-left should continue to hold a clear majority.

Because of the June elections, the European Parliament's activities will initially be limited -- and its election of a European Commission president could prove complicated. Nevertheless, Orban has said in recent interviews that he wants to "fix the European Union" and that "we need to take over Brussels." So, Hungary's leadership may make progress difficult on issues that Orban opposes, like the start of EU accession talks with Ukraine or a possible reelection bid by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Stability And The 'Serbian World'

By Gjeraqina Tuhina and Milos Teodorovic

Serbia, once again, will be a key player in the region -- and its moves could significantly shape events in the Balkans over the next 12 months.

For over a decade, the dialogue to normalize relations between Serbia and its former province Kosovo has stymied both countries. Then, in February in Brussels and March in Ohrid, North Macedonia, European mediators announced a path forward and its implementation. There was only one problem: There was no signature on either side. Nine months later, little has changed.

Many eyes are looking toward one aspect in particular -- a renewed obligation for Pristina to allow for an "appropriate level of self-management" for the Serb minority in Kosovo. This also entails creating possibilities for financial support from Serbia to Kosovar Serbs and guarantees for direct communication of the Serb minority with the Kosovar government.

In October, EU mediators tried again, and with German, French, and Italian backing presented both parties with a new draft for an association of Serb-majority municipalities. Both sides accepted the draft. EU envoy to the region Miroslav Lajcak suggested in December that the Ohrid agreement could be implemented by the end of January. If that happened, it would mark a decisive step for both sides in a dialogue that began in 2011.

"The Serbian world" is a phrase launched a few years ago by pro-Russian Serbian politician Aleksandar Vulin, a longtime cabinet minister who until recently headed the Serbian Intelligence Service. It is not officially part of the agenda of either Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic or the government, but it underscores the influence that Serbia seeks to wield from Kosovo and Montenegro to Republika Srpska in Bosnia-Herzegovina. But how Vucic chooses to exert the implicit ties to Serb leaders and nationalists in those countries could do much to promote stability -- or its antithesis -- in the Balkans in 2024.

Another major challenge for Vucic revolves around EU officials' request that candidate country Serbia harmonize its foreign policy with the bloc. So far, along with Turkey, Serbia is the only EU candidate that has not introduced sanctions on Russia since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. It is unclear how far the Serbian president is willing to push back to foster ongoing good relations with Moscow.

But first, Serbia will have to confront the fallout from snap elections in December dominated by Vucic's Serbian Progressive Party but rejected by the newly united opposition as fraudulent. The results sparked nightly protests in the capital and hunger strikes by a half-dozen lawmakers and other oppositionists. A new parliament is scheduled to hold a session by the end of January 2024, and the margins are seemingly razor-thin for control of the capital, Belgrade.

Central Asia: Don't Write Russia Off Just Yet

By Chris Rickleton

Will the empire strike back? 2023 has been a galling year for Russia in Central Asia as it watched its traditional partners (and former colonies) widen their diplomatic horizons.

With Russia bogged down in a grueling war in Ukraine, Moscow has less to offer the region than ever before. Central Asias five countries have made the most of the breathing space, with their leaders holding landmark talks with U.S. and German leaders as French President Emmanuel Macron also waltzed into Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan with multibillion-dollar investments.

And China has reinforced its dominant position in the region, while Turkey has also increased its influence.

But dont write Russia off just yet.

One of Moscows biggest wins in the neighborhood this year was an agreement to supply Uzbekistan with nearly 3 billion cubic meters of gas every year, a figure that could increase.

Power deficits in Uzbekistan and energy-rich Kazakhstan are the most obvious short-term sources of leverage for Moscow over those important countries.

The coming year will likely bring more in terms of specifics over both governments plans for nuclear power production, with Russia fully expected to be involved.

And Moscows confidence in a region that it views as its near abroad will only increase if it feels it is making headway on the battlefield in Ukraine.

Tajikistan

Tajikistans hereditary succession has been expected for so long that people have stopped expecting it. Does that mean it is back on the cards for 2024? Probably not.

In 2016, Tajikistan passed a raft of constitutional changes aimed at cementing the ruling Rahmon familys hold on power. Among them was one lowering the age to run for president from 35 to 30.

Turkmenistans bizarre new setup begs a question: If youre not ready to let it go, why not hold on a little longer?

That amendment had an obvious beneficiary -- veteran incumbent Emomali Rahmons upwardly mobile son, Rustam Emomali. But Emomali is now 36 and, despite occupying a political post that makes him next in line, doesnt look any closer to becoming numero uno.

Perhaps there hasnt been a good time to do it.

From the coronavirus pandemic to a bloody crackdown on unrest in the Gorno-Badakhshan region and now the shadows cast by the Ukraine war, there have been plenty of excuses to delay the inevitable.

Turkmenistan

But perhaps Rahmon is considering events in Turkmenistan, where Central Asias first father-son power transition last year has ended up nothing of the sort. Rather than growing into the role, new President Serdar Berdymukhammedov is shrinking back into the shadow of his all-powerful father, Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov.

And this seems to be exactly how the older Berdymukhammedov wanted it, subsequently fashioning himself a post-retirement post that makes his son and the rest of the government answerable to him.

But Turkmenistans bizarre new setup begs a question: If youre not ready to let it go, why not hold on a little longer?

Kyrgyzstan/Kazakhstan

Writing on X (formerly Twitter) in November, a former IMF economist argued that Kyrgyzstan would be the "perfect test case" for secondary sanctions over Russias invasion of Ukraine. Robin Brooks described the country as "small, not remotely systemically important, and very clearly facilitating trade diversion to Russia."

Official statistics show that countries in the Eurasian Economic Union that Moscow leads have become a backdoor around the Western-led sanctions targeting Russia. Exports to Kyrgyzstan from several EU countries this year, for example, are up by at least 1,000 percent compared to 2019.

Data for exports to Kazakhstan shows similar patterns -- with larger volumes but gentler spikes -- while investigations by RFE/RL indicate that companies in both Central Asian countries have forwarded dual-use products that benefit the Kremlins military machine.

Belarus is the only Russian ally to get fully sanctioned for its support of Moscows invasion of Ukraine -- but will that change in 2024?

Central Asian governments will argue they have resisted Russian pressure to provide political and military support for the war. They might even whisper that their big friend China is much more helpful to Russia.

But the Wests approach of targeting only Central Asian companies actively flouting the regime is failing.

So, while Western diplomats continue to credit the regions governments for their anti-evasion efforts, their patience may wear out. And if it does, Kyrgyzstan might be first to find out.

Afghanistan: The Vicious Spiral Will Worsen

By Malali Bashir

With little internal threat to Afghanistans Taliban regime and the failure of the international community to affect change in the hard-line Islamist regimes policies, the Taliban mullahs control over the country continues to tighten.

And that regimes continued restrictions on Afghan women -- their rights, freedom, and role in society -- signals a bleak future for them in 2024 and beyond.

Many observers say the move by the Taliban in December to only allow girls to attend religious madrasahs -- after shutting down formal schooling for them following the sixth grade -- is an effort by the Taliban to radicalize Afghan society.

Madrasahs are not an alternative to formal schooling because they dont produce doctors, lawyers, journalists, engineers, etc. The idea of [only] having madrasahs isabout brainwashing [people] to create an extremist society, says Shukria Barakzai, the former Afghan ambassador to Norway.

The crackdown on womens rights by the Taliban will also continue the reported uptick in domestic violence in the country, activists say.

Since the Taliban shut down Afghanistans Independent Human Rights Commission and Women Affairs Ministry, women find themselves with nowhere to turn to and find it extremely difficult to seek justice in Taliban courts.

The Taliban seems adamant about maintaining its severe limits on women and reducing their role in society.

With no justice for victims of abuse on the horizon, womens rights activists say violence against women will continue with no repercussions for the perpetrators.

Barakzai argues that Taliban officials have already normalized domestic violence and do not consider it a crime.

According to [a Taliban] decree, you can [confront] women if they are not listening to [your requests]. Especially a male member of the family is allowed to use all means to punish women if they refuse to follow his orders. That is basically a call for domestic violence, she said.

The vicious spiral for women will only worsen.

Being banned from education, work, and public life, Afghan women say the resulting psychological impact leads to panic, depression, and acute mental health crises.

Although there are no official figures, Afghan mental health professionals and foreign organizations have noted a disturbing surge in female suicides in the two years since the Taliban came to power.

"If we look at the women who were previously working or studying, 90 percent suffer from mental health issues now," said Mujeeb Khpalwak, a psychiatrist in Kabul. "They face tremendous economic uncertainty after losing their work and are very anxious about their future."

Heather Bar, associate director of the women's rights division at Human Rights Watch, says, "It's not surprising that we're hearing reports of Afghan girls committing suicide. Because all their rights, including going to school, university, and recreational places have been taken away from them."

Promising young Afghan women who once aspired to contribute to their communities after pursuing higher education now find themselves with no career prospects.

I do not see any future. When I see boys continuing their education, I lose all hope and wish that I was not born a girl, a former medical student in Kabul told RFE/RL's Radio Azadi.

Despite immense global pressure, the Taliban seems adamant about maintaining its severe limits on women and reducing their role in society. This will result in a tragic future for the women of Afghanistan with no relief in sight.
In mid-November, authorities arrested three journalists from Abzas Media, a rare creature in Azerbaijan's heavily repressed media landscape: a Baku-based outlet publishing hard-hitting investigations, in particular into corruption by senior officials.

Ulvi Hasanli, Abzas's director; Sevinj Vagifgizi, its editor in chief; and Mahammad Kekalov, the deputy director, were all arrested. A few days later, Aziz Orujov, the head of Internet television station Kanal 13, was also taken into custody. All were put in pretrial detention for terms of between three and four months. On November 30, a fourth journalist from Abzas, Nargiz Absalamova, was also arrested.



As the Azerbaijani government is riding high on its military triumph in Nagorno-Karabakh -- a disputed region that Baku won back from ethnic Armenian control in September -- journalists in the country are increasingly being arrested and subject to a government-run media campaign accusing them of trying to undermine the country on behalf of the United States and Europe. With the government increasingly sensitive to accusations of corruption, press freedom groups say that the recent charges are politically motivated.



'This Was The Last Straw'



Hasanli was the first of the Abzas journalists to be arrested. The outlet's director said he was beaten while in custody and that, during his questioning, he was asked why Abzas chose to cover corruption rather than Azerbaijan's military successes.



Editor Vagifgizi spoke to RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service about Hasanli's case just hours before she, too, was arrested.

"This is because of the free media's investigations into President [Ilham] Aliyev's family's businesses, as well as the businesses of high-ranking officials close to his family," she said.

It is accusations of corruption, analysts say, that the government and the family of President Aliyev care most about, as it can damage the ruling family's domestic popularity and their international reputation.



Aliyev has been in power since 2003 and, throughout those two decades, has steadily tightened his control over the country. While he has overseen a boom in revenues from the country's substantial oil and gas exports, many complain that little of that wealth has trickled down to ordinary Azerbaijanis. There are no reliable opinion polls in the country, but analysts agree that Azerbaijan's victory in the Second Karabakh War of 2020 boosted his popularity and has neutered critics, at least for now.

Baku and Yerevan have been locked in a conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh for years. Armenian-backed separatists seized the mainly Armenian-populated region from Azerbaijan during a war in the early 1990s that killed some 30,000 people. The two sides fought another war in 2020 that lasted six weeks before a Russia-brokered cease-fire, resulting in Armenia losing control over parts of the region and seven adjacent districts.



Many of Abzas's investigations have covered alleged corruption in the process of reconstruction in the territories that Azerbaijan retook in the Second Karabakh War. The stories have documented how companies connected to senior government officials, including members of Aliyev's family, got state contracts or were able to acquire agricultural land without going through the standard competitive procedures.



Abzas "is the last bastion of independent journalism" in Azerbaijan, said Hafiz Babali, a journalist who has written several articles for Abzas and who has himself been questioned by police about the publication.



Another investigation, published in early November, documented how companies tied to family members of the head of Azerbaijan's State Security Service had managed to take over a bank belonging to the former leader of Azerbaijan's exclave of Naxcivan, who was pushed out of office in 2022 on a pretext of cleaning up corruption.



"This was the last straw," Babali told RFE/RL. "This is when they decided they had to stop it."



Blaming The United States



The crackdown on journalists has coincided with a sharp rhetorical turn against the United States, following Azerbaijan's late September military offensive, which resulted in the surrender of the ethnic Armenian authorities who had ruled Nagorno-Karabakh for the past three decades and the flight of nearly all the more than 100,000 ethnic Armenians who were living there.

Government officials and pro-government media have seized on U.S. criticism of Azerbaijan's offensive. At a November 15 hearing in the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs James O'Brien said that the United States "condemned" the offensive.

"The [State] Department has made it clear to Azerbaijan that there cannot be business as usual in our bilateral relationship. The United States has condemned Azerbaijani actions in Nagorno-Karabakh, canceled high-level bilateral meetings and engagements with Azerbaijan, and suspended plans for future events," O'Brien said.

Washington also suspended the relatively small amount of security assistance programs it carries out with Azerbaijan.



Baku fired back.

A Foreign Ministry statement called O'Brien's remarks "counterproductive, baseless, and unacceptable," and the Azerbaijani foreign minister pulled out of a meeting that had been scheduled in Washington with his Armenian counterpart.



Aliyev spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken by phone on November 27 and the two sides put out markedly different statements about the call. The State Department referred to "recent points of concern in the relationship" and "the importance of high-level engagement."

The Azerbaijani readout of the conversation, meanwhile, said that the two had reached an agreement: Baku would allow O'Brien to visit Azerbaijan in exchange for Washington lifting its moratorium on meetings with Azerbaijani officials. U.S. officials have not confirmed that agreement.



Azerbaijani pro-government media portrayed the call as a significant walk-back from Washington.

"In this way, the State Department acknowledged the serious mistakes that U.S. diplomacy had made in the South Caucasus and cannot succeed in the region by unilaterally supporting Armenia and without a strong and stable relationship with Azerbaijan," the news website Haqqin, associated with the country's security services, wrote.



Western-Funded Journalism Targeted

This more antagonistic narrative toward the West has also taken aim at the role played by the United States in supporting journalism in Azerbaijan. A series of lengthy articles in the pro-government Report.az alleged that a network of organizations in Azerbaijan -- including Abzas, another news outlet, Toplum TV, the Institute for Democratic Initiatives NGO, and an informal group of activists it labeled "radical feminists" -- was operating under U.S. orders to undermine the Azerbaijani state. The articles singled out the U.S. Agency for International Development, the state foreign aid agency, for its alleged role.

One of the articles presented a series of contracts appearing to document payments made by Western grant-giving organizations to Abzas. It accused the "American provocation machine" of "forming compact, flexible gangs, consisting of so-called media and NGOs, holding the strings of these groups in its hands." And it said those journalists had "secretly cooperated with a large number of donor organizations under the name of 'supporting democratic development' in order to create provocations and carry out other illegal missions."

The veracity of the documents has not been confirmed.



A 2014 law on NGOs sharply restricted how Azerbaijani organizations can get funding from abroad. Abzas does not publicize who funds it, but USAID and other U.S. and European donors give grants to a variety of Azerbaijani media organizations.

"USAID provides local journalists with access to training opportunities to help advance journalistic excellence in Azerbaijan," the organization says on its website.



RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service, known locally as Azadliq, also reports about official local and government corruption and has faced significant pressure from the Azerbaijani government over the last two decades.



Funded by a grant from the U.S. Congress but guaranteed editorial independence by U.S. law, Azadliq's bureau was raided and closed in 2014, its website has been repeatedly blocked, and its journalists abused and detained. While RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service was banned from broadcasting on FM in 2009, it still reaches its audience via satellite, social media, and digital platforms.

Lawyers for the arrested Abzas journalists have lodged a complaint in court about the Report.az articles, arguing that spreading the materials in the media was a violation of the presumption of innocence, RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service reported.



"Such accusations about USAID assistance projects are false and fundamentally mischaracterize the purpose of our assistance. As always, our assistance is transparent. USAID programs around the world promote democratic values aimed at free and peaceful societies," a U.S. State Department spokesperson told the independent Azerbaijani news agency Turan.



It wasn't just Azerbaijani journalists targeted but former students as well. A November 25 report on the website Qafqazinfo claimed that an upcoming meeting of a group of Azerbaijani alumni of U.S. universities amounted to a spy network operating in the country.

"Law enforcement agencies of Azerbaijan are already aware of the issue. It is reported that the event will be monitored in order to expose the participants in the future," Qafqazinfo wrote.

The government does not tolerate any criticism after the [Second Karabakh] War, and they are very vulnerable to serious claims of corruption."

The U.S. Embassy canceled the event, confirming the cancellation in a statement to the Turan news agency, without addressing the "agent" allegations.



Such investigations and an anti-Western campaign amount to a "spy hunt," said Rufat Safarov, a founder of the Azerbaijani human rights organization Defense Line.

"Whenever the government faces political and diplomatic conflicts with some foreign country, it automatically starts to track its 'spies' inside the country," he told RFE/RL's Azerbaijani Service.



Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry announced on November 28 that it had summoned the U.S. ambassador, as well as the envoys from Germany and France.

"In the meetings, it was brought to the attention that [the] Abzas Media news portal carried out illegal financial operations with the participation of organizations registered in these countries, as well as that the embassies of the mentioned countries were also involved in this activity, and a serious objection was expressed to this activity," the ministry said in a statement.



Wider Crackdown



Many observers in Azerbaijan believe that the government embarked on the anti-U.S. campaign in order to provide a pretext for the crackdown on local journalists, especially as there has been no significant shift in the U.S. position vis-a-vis Azerbaijan, argued Anar Mammadli, a Baku-based political analyst.



"The government does not tolerate any criticism after the [Second Karabakh] War, and they are very vulnerable to serious claims of corruption. These investigations [by Abzas] could also damage the political capital that the government gained after the war," Mammadli said.



According to its 2023 World Press Freedom Index, the Paris-based Reporters Without Borders ranked Azerbaijan 151st out of 180 countries, saying that "President Ilham Aliyev has wiped out any semblance of pluralism, and since 2014, he has sought ruthlessly to silence any remaining critics."



This wave of arrests of journalists followed the arrest, in July, of prominent scholar and opposition figure Gubad Ibadoglu. After decades of repression, the space for opposition political groups is tiny in Azerbaijan -- and still shrinking. Just this year, the government implemented new restrictions on how political parties can operate.



Ibadoglu was charged with crimes related to counterfeiting, but supporters say the arrest was politically motivated. He was taken into custody two weeks after announcing his intention to launch a scholarship program for Azerbaijanis to study abroad.



To fund it, he said, he would work with the United States, the United Kingdom, and European countries to appropriate money that corrupt Azerbaijani officials had stolen and stashed in overseas bank accounts. Ibadoglu's family has said he has been beaten and denied access to medicine he needs.



In September, a trade union leader, Afiaddin Mammadov, was arrested on charges of hooliganism, which he denies. The government may have targeted him because he has led protests of delivery drivers for companies that many believe are run by companies connected to government officials, Mammadli said.



And on December 2, Rufat Muradli, an anchor at Kanal 13, was detained, making him the sixth journalist to be apprehended in a two-week span.

"I'm just afraid that these arrests will not stop," said Babali, the journalist. "Their appetite is very big."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy rejected the possibility of a cease-fire with Russia, saying it would not lead to substantive progress in the war and only favor Moscow by giving it time to boost supplies to its military as the conflict nears its two-year anniversary.

A pause on the Ukrainian battlefield will not mean a pause in the war, the Ukrainian leader said in Estonia's capital, Tallinn, on January 11 during a tour of the three Baltic nations.

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.

"Give Russia two to three years and it will simply run us over. We wouldn't take that risk.... There will be no pauses in favor of Russia," he said. "A pause would play into [Russias] hands.... It might crush us afterward.



Zelenskiy has pleaded with Ukraine's allies to keep supplying it with weapons amid signs of donor fatigue in some countries and as Russia turns to countries such as Iran and North Korea for munitions.



NATO allies meeting in Brussels on January 10 tried to allay Kyiv's concerns over supplies, saying they will continue to provide Ukraine with major military, economic, and humanitarian aid. NATO allies have outlined plans to provide "billions of euros of further capabilities" in 2024 to Ukraine, the alliance said in a statement.



Estonian President Alar Karis said after meeting Zelenskiy that his country will provide 1.2 billion euros ($1.31 billion) in aid to Ukraine until 2027.



"Ukraine needs more and better weapons," Karis said at a joint news conference with Zelenskiy.



"The capabilities of the EU military industry must be increased so that Ukraine gets what it needs, not tomorrow, but today. We should not place any restrictions on the supply of weapons to Ukraine," he added.



Estonia has so far provided military assistance to Ukraine worth nearly 500 million euros, or more than 1.4 percent of its gross domestic product, according to the Estonian Foreign Minstry.

In a separate message on X, formerly Twitter, Zelenskiy thanked Tallinn for its continued aid.



"Estonia's unwavering support for Ukraine, our people, and our defense is evident today, during my visit, and throughout the war," Zelenskiy wrote. "I am grateful to Estonia for all its support."



The Baltic countries have been staunch allies of Ukraine since the start of Russia's unprovoked invasion in February 2022.



On January 10, Zelenskiy held talks in Vilnius with Lithuanian counterpart, Gitanas Nauseda.

We have proven that Russia can be stopped, that deterrence is possible, he said after talks with Nauseda.



Ukraine has been subjected to several massive waves of Russian missile and drone strikes since the start of the year that have caused civilian deaths and material damage.



In the latest such attack, a hotel in downtown Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, was struck by Russian missiles overnight on January 11. The strike injured 13 people, including Turkish journalists staying at the hotel, Kharkiv regional police chief Volodymyr Tymoshko said.



Regional Governor Oleh Synyehubov said that one of those injured was in serious condition. More than 30 civilians were inside the hotel at the time of the attack, Synyehubov said on Telegram.



Ukraine's emergency services said those hurt in the strike were "hotel staff and guests, one of whom is a foreign journalist," without giving details. Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said no military personnel were staying at the hotel.

With reporting by AFP and Reuters
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Rachael Rudolph, Assistant Professor of Social Science and researcher at the Beijing Institute of Technology in Zhuhai, China, told Trend about President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev's speech at the Forum themed "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" has left an indelible impression on him.

Rudolph made the remark on the forum's sidelines.

"President Ilham Aliyev provided detailed responses to all of the questions. Furthermore, he did it in English with no notes. It was outstanding," she said.

The researcher pointed out that it's amazing to be in Baku today and listen to the speech of the head of state.

I am delighted that the President of the country allocated so much valuable time to meet with academics, experts, and politicians at this forum, she emphasized.

The forum, co-organized by ADA University and the Center for Analysis of International Relations, has been attended by 60 foreign experts from 30 countries.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Since October 7, Avi Shamriz, an Iranian Jew, has waited for his phone to ring for news on his son, Alon. He's still waiting.

Two months after Alon was taken hostage during an attack on Israel by extremists from Hamas, which has been designated a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union, Avi Shamriz, whose Iranian first name is Kamran, hopes the phone will ring.

"We have no news. From October 7, when we received information that my son was kidnapped until now, we don't know if he's dead, alive, or injured," Shamriz told RFE/RL's Radio Farda in a brief phone interview on December 6.

Hamas killed more than 1,200 Israelis -- mainly civilians -- in the October 7 raid, and took some 240 hostages back to the Gaza Strip, where Israel has launched an intense war in the aftermath of the deadliest attack on Jews since the Holocaust.

Since the war began, swaps of dozens of hostages and Palestinians held in Israeli prisons have taken place.

Shamriz, who spoke from Tel Aviv where the family was evacuated after the Hamas attack, said they believe Alon is in Gaza, as he has yet to turn up on any list of those who died in the attack on October 7.

So he scours video and reports from those released for any tidbit of information on his son, a 26-year-old student of computer engineering from the Kfar Aza kibbutz near the border with Gaza.

Israeli officials says seniors, women, and children have been the priority so far in negotiations for the release of hostages. That would put Avi Shamriz down on the priority list.

"[The Israeli hostages] who have been freed haven't seen my son. They took 19 hostages from [Kfar] Aza and 10 of them have returned home. But none of them saw my son," he said.

The cease-fire to allow the trading of hostages for prisoners broke down over the weekend.

Israel has since resumed its withering attack on Gaza, where an estimated 138 hostages remain, as it hunts Hamas fighters.

On December 5, Israel's military entered Khan Younis, Gaza's second-largest city, as aid agencies warned of dire humanitarian conditions that are growing worse by the day.

The Shamriz family knows only that Alon has yet to turn up.

"The war has resumed [after a temporary truce], but my son is still there. Im scared that something will happen to him," Shamriz said.

"We went and talked [to Israeli officials] and told them that this is not the time [for war]. First, they must save my son [and other hostages]. This is not the time for war. We went and talked and pleaded, but nothing. They are not a government."
ALMATY, Kazakhstan -- On the surface, it might seem like Kazakh officials are responding busily to the most high-profile incident of spousal murder in the country's history.



In the capital, Astana, lawmakers insisted this week that they are working to strengthen punishment for domestic violence.



In the largest city, Almaty, authorities took the rare step of permitting a rally against violence against women at the end of November, held after former Economy Minister Quandyq Bishimbaev was jailed on suspicion of killing his 31-year-old wife, Saltanat Nukenova.

Look a little deeper, however, and there are troubling questions about what officials in the government of President Qasym-Zhomart Toqaev seem to want to take from this tragic event.



Why, for instance, after one group of organizers was permitted to hold a demonstration on the topic, was another denied the same privilege?



And why, at a time of increased public debate around violence against women, is one of the civic groups that has done the most to draw attention to these crimes finding itself under financial sanctions and an investigation?



A Rather Strange Rally



Since it is rare for officials in Kazakhstan to permit demonstrations of any kind, it makes sense to begin with the protest held in Almaty on November 26.



Headlined "Say no to the animal world," the rally was bizarre for reasons other than its branding.



Interviews by RFE/RL's Kazakh Service with demonstrators who were willing to talk -- many refused -- revealed that most had traveled more than 1,000 kilometers from Astana to protest in Almaty.



Moreover, many participants seemed unable to articulate their demands beyond a rejection of what they called animal-like violence, a trait represented by posters depicting half-man, half-beast figures, and animal masks put on mannequins in a cage.

Alikhan Sarsenov, a member of the Zhana Adamdar (New Faces) group that organized the rally, told RFE/RL the demonstrators didn't "see the point" of stricter legislation on domestic violence and were instead looking to promote behavioral change.



"People's thinking will not change if the [punishment] is altered by five or 10 years. We need to change our own thinking so that people understand [that violence is wrong]," he said.



This moderate position -- and the very fact the rally was allowed -- becomes more understandable in the context of Zhana Adamdar being an ardently pro-Toqaev group whose members have previously met with the president.



After news broke that this group had been granted permission to demonstrate, independent feminist groups soon complained that spin doctors in Toqaev's administration were trying to take control of an emotive public conversation about gender-based violence.



Zhanar Adamdar did not hide its admiration for Toqaev.

"Today, we came to this square to say no to the animal world. The president says our country must live by rules and laws," said Sarsenov colleague Asel Badenova in a speech at the event.



Silencing 'Don't Be Silent'



At the same time, two feminists who tried to gain access to the demonstration were turned back by police for carrying placards demanding the end of an ongoing investigation targeting NeMolchi.kz, a nonprofit famous for its support for victims of sexual violence.



NeMolchi.kz (Don't Be Silent) recently lost access to its local bank accounts and, although police have failed to provide the organization with any details of the case, the group's head, Dina Smailova, believes she is being falsely accused of embezzling money that was crowdsourced as part of the charity's work.



As it turned out, the problems facing NeMolchi.kz were raised by another participant at the rally, and one that organizers could hardly shut down.



Aitbek Amangeldy, Nukenova's brother, spoke emotionally about his 31-year-old sister, who was beaten to death in a private room at a luxurious Astana restaurant owned by the Bishimbaev family prior to Bishimbaev's arrest.



And he used the occasion to excoriate the authorities for failing to pass laws to protect women and for wasting time harassing a fund that does so much to help the vulnerable.

"Without this fund, thousands of girls will be left without support," Amangeldy said of NeMolchi.kz, without naming it. "I hope that in a year, when I come to Saltanat's grave, I will be able to tell her that we have changed something, that we are becoming better, kinder, and, most importantly, more empathetic toward each other," he said.



Zhana Adamdar has said it will continue to hold public events against gender-based violence.



But the independent feminist organization Feminita said on December 4 that it had been denied the same opportunity, after its applications to hold rallies on two squares designated for demonstrations on December 9 were rejected by the same Almaty authorities that gave Zhana Adamdar the green light.



Almaty's municipality told the group that one of the squares was undergoing repairs, while the other had already been booked by other organizers for "mass cultural activities," Feminita said in a statement on social media.



It's The Cops, Stupid



Despite hundreds of women dying from abuse every year, domestic violence is not fully criminalized in Kazakhstan.

The angry public reaction to Nukenova's death, however -- and a petition that garnered more than 150,000 signatures -- has made that situation seem untenable going forward.



The speaker of Kazakhstan's lower house, Erlan Qoshanov, said on December 5 that lawmakers were considering amendments to the Criminal Code that would remove noncustodial sentences as options on convictions for inflicting moderate and serious harm on a person -- two crimes closely associated with domestic violence.



Kazakhstan had already made progress in combating domestic violence earlier this year, Qoshanov said, after complaints filed by third parties -- rather than just sufferers of abuse -- and video evidence became potential pretexts to arrest abusers.

But this is skirting around the main problem, as Qoshanov knows well.



Under current laws, even with this type of evidence, a settlement between abused and abuser can still kill a case and leave a victim vulnerable to further violence. And as women's rights groups are tired of pointing out, police are often more than happy to facilitate such reconciliations -- sometimes in exchange for money from the perpetrators of the violence.



This and other key problems in the process might have been partially solved by a law on the prevention of domestic violence that made it to parliament in 2020 but never got beyond a first reading.



Margarita Uskembaeva, an activist and proponent of the law, noted at a recent press conference in Almaty that the draft legislation clearly defined the responsibilities of police in relation to domestic abuse cases, as well as the responsibilities of the Health, Labor, and Education ministries, where appropriate.



But "the law was shelved due to a wave of hate that turned out to be stronger than [the views of] progressive experts," Uskembaeva said at the November 22 event. "Those same law enforcement agencies do not want [laws] to fight [domestic violence] to work."



Recent cases have highlighted how police officers can also be active participants in violence against women.



Smailova of NeMolchi.kz became aware of the case against her just days after her November 16 Facebook post highlighting a hitherto unpublicized incident in which two police officials in the province of Konaev allegedly raped a 14-year-old girl.

Smailova said that she had heard that the policemen had been removed from their positions but that their bosses were trying to avoid the case becoming news. She publicly demanded more information about the case.



Any backlash would only be logical. The weeks before the post had been bad enough for the reputation of Kazakh police.



A video of a policeman trying to force a rape victim into withdrawing a statement had gone viral, generating disgust, while a police chief in the town of Taldyqorghon had recently been detained on suspicion of raping a woman.



The apparent case against Smailova would be the third in the history of NeMolchi.kz.



The activist and her lawyer claim that police have been harassing citizens that donate to the organization in different parts of the country in an attempt to get them to write statements against her.



RFE/RL correspondents made a number of phone calls to police in Eastern Kazakhstan Province, where the case was reportedly opened, in order to try to find out more about it but got short shrift.



One policeman that answered the telephone told a correspondent he had "no right to divulge the secrets of the investigation."



"So I won't divulge, and you won't bother me," the policeman said, before hanging up.
The United States has charged four Russian soldiers with torture and other war crimes in connection with the alleged abduction and interrogation of an American during the early stages of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in April 2022.

Attorney General Merrick Garland announced the indictment on December 6, saying the charges against the four "Russia-affiliated military personnel" are for "heinous crimes against an American citizen" and are the first to be brought under the U.S. war crimes statute.

The U.S. citizen, who was not identified, was abducted from his home in the village of Mylove in the Kherson region in southern Ukraine and held for at least 10 days, the Justice Department said in a news release.

Investigators from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the FBI interviewed the American, his family, and others who were around Mylove at the time of the abduction to identify the four Russians, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said.

"The evidence gathered by our agents speaks to the brutality, criminality, and depravity of Russia's invasion," Mayorkas said at a news conference in Washington.

The American and his wife, a Ukrainian citizen, were eventually evacuated.

According to the indictment, two of the soldiers charged -- Suren Mkrtchyan and Dmitry Budnik -- were commanding officers of military units of the Russian Armed Forces and/or the so-called Donetsk People's Republic." The two others charged were lower-ranking military personnel, identified only as Valery and Nazar.

"During the abduction, Mkrtchyan, Valery, Nazar, and others allegedly threw the victim face down to the ground while he was naked, tied his hands behind his back, pointed a gun at his head, and severely beat him, including with the stocks of their guns," the Justice Department said.

The indictment also alleges that Mkrtchyan and Budnik led at least two interrogation sessions during which the four defendants and others tortured the victim.

During one interrogation, Mkrtchyan, Valery, and Nazar allegedly stripped the victim and photographed him. The defendants and others then allegedly severely beat the victim and pointed guns at the back of his head. Budnik allegedly threatened the victim with death and asked for his last words, which was followed by a mock execution.

U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber said in the news release that these were "grave breaches" of the Geneva Conventions.

The defendants, whose whereabouts are unknown, are charged with three war crimes -- unlawful confinement, torture, and inhuman treatment -- and one count of conspiracy to commit war crimes. If convicted, each faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.

Although U.S. officials described the case as history-making, the charges are largely symbolic, given the unlikely prospect of the Justice Department taking any of them into custody.
Well-known Ukrainian human rights defender Maksym Butkevych, sentenced by a Moscow-installed court in Ukraine's eastern Luhansk region to 13 years in prison in March, has been located in the Russian-occupied region after going missing for more than three months.

Butkevych's lawyer, Leonid Solovyov, told the Graty Telegram channel on December 5 that the Russian Federal Penitentiary Service had informed him his client is currently serving his term in a prison in the town of Krasniy Luch.

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.

Butkevych's relatives have expressed concerns about his situation saying they had not been aware of his whereabouts since late August.

Butkevych was sentenced on March 10 for allegedly being involved in two attempted murders, as well as premeditated damage of others' property, cruelty against civilians, and using banned methods in an armed conflict. He and his supporters have rejected the charges.

Butkevych was known for raising awareness of the problems faced by refugees even before the Russian invasion.

He gained prominence for his calls to amend Ukraine's migration regulations for Belarusian nationals who fled en masse to Ukraine following a deadly crackdown on dissent that started after a disputed presidential election in Belarus in August 2020.

In addition to his human rights activities, Butkevych is known for his journalistic activities and is a well-known public figure in Ukraine.

He is a co-founder of the Hromadske radio (Public radio) station that has broadcast a series of special programs for residents of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions that at the time were controlled by Russian-backed separatists.

Just days after Russia launched its ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine in late February 2022, Butkevych joined Ukraine's armed forces.

In July 2022, his mother recognized him on a video showing Ukrainian soldiers captured by Russian forces near the towns of Zolote and Hirne in the Luhansk region.

She says she has had no contact with her son since his capture. She has been trying to free him from Russian captivity in prisoner swaps that have taken place sporadically since Russia invaded Ukraine.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Tremendous work has been done in the Azerbaijani territories liberated from Armenian occupation, Senior Researcher at the Institute for Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary, Vasa Laszlo told Trend.

Vasa delivered his speech on the sidelines of the forum "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges".

"Azerbaijan's liberated territories have seen tremendous progress. I have strong thoughts and impressions of Karabakh and the nearby liberated regions since I witnessed how everything was destroyed in these areas. I visited Shusha twice, and both times I saw nothing but desolation and ruins. However, I have now seen progress. These places have prospered, with new communities and schools being developed. And it's fantastic that people who had to leave these areas in the past have returned," said Vasa.

He stated that he admires the skills of individuals in charge of these regions because they were able to complete large-scale projects on time and with good quality. Simultaneously, social activities relating to the return of IDPs to their home countries were carried out.

Vasa also emphasized that he was very touched by the fact that Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev mentioned Hungary as a reliable ally of Azerbaijan in the EU at the forum "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges".

"President Ilham Aliyev mentioned Hungary as a reliable ally of Azerbaijan in the EU, while several Western European countries, especially France, adhere to anti-Azerbaijani rhetoric. These countries, from time to time, try to push certain decisions in the European Parliament or the European Commission directed against Azerbaijan. The mention of Hungary by the head of state certainly touched me, given the high level of Hungarian-Azerbaijani relations," he added.

According to him, Azerbaijan and Hungary have established strategic relations.

"Thanks to these strategic ties, we can count on Azerbaijan's support in solving energy-related problems. This is especially important in the context of gas imports, which is very relevant in the period of difficulties related to the war in Ukraine," Vasa commented.

The forum "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" was organized by ADA University jointly with the Center for Analysis of International Relations.

The forum was attended by 60 foreign representatives from 30 countries.

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Four Fine Gael candidates, recently selected for the 2024 Local Elections for the Roscommon and Boyle Municipal Districts, have been congratulated by Senator Aisling Dolan.

Congratulations to Robbie McConn and Gareth Scahill who are putting their names forward to represent communities in Roscommon and Castlerea. Both candidates were nominated at the Fine Gael selection convention in the Kilbride Community Centre. Both Robbie and Gareth are extremely active in their local communities and I know their focus is on funding and investment for local clubs and community groups. I look forward to working with them on key projects in Roscommon town and Castlerea, she said.

Senator Micheal Carrigy, based in Longford, was the guest chair for the evening.

In Elphin, Cllr Liam Callaghan and new candidate Dympna Daly Finn were nominated at the Fine Gael Boyle Selection convention. Liam has much experience in Roscommon County Council representing his region and a track record of working with local groups to secure funding for so many projects.

He is working closely with Fine Gael colleague Cllr John Naughten in the Athlone area, said Senator Dolan. Dympna is a new candidate from Arigna with lots of enthusiasm and vision of all she would like to achieve for communities in North Roscommon. She has a background in healthcare and takes an active role as a parent in her local schools board of management. Congratulations to both candidates and to their families and friends for all their support, added the senator.

All of these candidates want more for their local communities, that voices in towns across Roscommon are heard at local government level. It is great to see new people coming forward to be public representatives. We have a strong team to go forward for the Local Elections in 2024.

New candidate Dympna Daly Finn from Arigna said that she was delighted to be selected to represent the people in her local communities of Arigna, Keadue, Ballyfarnon, Drumboylan, Cootehall, Cortober, Boyle, and all the other areas within the electoral area.

Cllr Liam Callaghan with new candidate Dympna Daly Finn from Arigna.

Working with Cllr Callaghan in North Roscommon we have a shared purpose of making a difference for future generations, she said. Having two young children, this is very important to me to see my children stay in rural Ireland and have successful careers through more apprenticeships and job opportunities in the North Roscommon area. Dympna said that she wanted to be a fresh voice for Fine Gael and a first point of contact in her local community.

She attended Greaghnafarna National School, which is a small rural school in the area, and has served on the board of management for the last four years. She also attended Drumshanbo Vocational School where she completed her Leaving Cert in 1994. She has also completed a course in Psychology through Vita House Roscommon and NUI Maynooth. She currently works for the HSE in Sligo University Hospital as an auxiliary nurse /healthcare assistant in an extremely busy surgical ward.

Dympna added that Arigna was a popular tourist attraction with the Arigna Mining Experience and the Miners Way walks. Tourism is key to rural areas in Ireland, and I am keen to continue promoting these places and improving facilities for those who use them, she said.

Lough key Forest Park in Boyle attracts large numbers year-round, and I would like for the Boyle area to attract more of these tourists into the town to support local businesses, which are key to keeping our towns growing. She is also seeking more investment to improve local towns and villages to make them safer, improve lighting on footpaths, making them safer to walk on, adding and improving Greenways and Blueways.

She explained that she had decided to run for election as she always had a keen interest in local and national politics. Her late father, James Daly, canvassed with the late councillor Charlie Hopkins and John Connor TD when they served on Roscommon County Council.

Representing the community is important to me. The local area where I live and the people who live there are important to me. I am keen to get out and meet people and talk to local business about the issues that matter to them and for me to try to act and look to see how the council could introduce new initiatives within the area to try to improve local services and improve existing facilities to make North Roscommon a better place for all.

If elected Dympna promises to be there for people and have an open-door policy going forward to listen to peoples views and concerns on the matters that are important to them. She is encouraging everybody to cast their vote next year, so their opinion counts and makes a difference, so they have a fresh and local voice and a first point of contact in their community.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. The event brought together 60 experts representing 30 countries, Trend reports.

Opening the Forum, Rector of ADA University Hafiz Pashayev said: Your Excellency, President Ilham Aliyev, dear participants of the ADA University Forum.

It is great honor and pleasure to welcome you, Mr. President, and all participants at our university at this historic time, when we can proudly say that Azerbaijan fully restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty. This remarkable achievement has been possible due to the visionary leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, who did outstanding long-lasting efforts in uniting all Azerbaijani nation behind common mission. This decisive victory has ended 30-year long occupation of Karabakh. Mr. President, please allow me to congratulate you with this unique achievement, and wish you great success in the redevelopment and reconstruction efforts in Karabakh.

The task ahead of us is gigantic. Alongside with infrastructure projects, the most important goal is a smooth return and resettlement of Azerbaijani IDPs. Close to 1 million ethnic Azerbaijanis were victims of the occupation with their homes being looted and ruined. At the request of the government, in the past three years, ADA university researchers have been meeting with IDP families and conducting various surveys in order to better understand their needs and priorities. Big majority of the respondents have expressed great desire to return back to their native towns and villages.

Yesterday, the participants of the forum have been able to witness amazing developments, which have taken place in the smart and eco-friendly village of Aghali in the liberated Zangilan region.

This forum with more than 60 foreign participants from renowned think tanks and research centers will allow us to further discuss the various social, economic, security and infrastructure aspects of the return process and the possible usage of the international experience in Azerbaijani context.

Mr. President, we thank you for agreeing to meet with participants of the forum and discussing issues related to the return of IDPs. Your vision on this matter will be very useful to all analysts and researchers who study our region and beyond. The floor is yours, Your Excellency.

President Ilham Aliyev: Thank you very much. Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. First of all, I'd like to express gratitude to Rector Hafiz Pashayev for the invitation. It's not the first time I participate in the ADA University Forum. Actually, I think, I didn't miss any of them. Last time, we met with a group of international experts in Shusha this May. I'm glad that this time you visited another liberated region of Azerbaijan, Zangilan, and witnessed the process of resettlement and reconstruction. I consider these kinds of gatherings very useful for me, because during this interaction we discuss many important issues. I also understand better what the questions are in the international expert community with respect to recent developments in our region.

Because situation in the region is changing. To a large degree, the initiator of the changes is Azerbaijan. This is natural, because we needed to fully restore our sovereignty over internationally recognized territory of Azerbaijan. We wanted to do it peacefully, the same way like we wanted to find a peaceful solution to conflict with Armenia for almost thirty years. But, unfortunately, it was not possible due to many reasons, which we already discussed broadly during our previous meetings.

Since May, when we met last time  not with the same group  but many of those, who were there in Shusha, are here today. The situation was different. We still had hopes that it would be possible to persuade Armenias leadership to comply with its international commitments, particularly, with the declaration, which the Armenian Prime Minister, the Russian President and myself signed in the early hours of the 10th November, 2020. We hoped that they would respect their own signature and make an important step in order to complete the long-lasting standoff. In other words, they had to withdraw their forces from Karabakh. They did not do it due to different reasons.

When we restored our sovereignty, two and a half years ago, we once again saw what we anticipated  a large number of Armenian military servicemen in Karabakh was positioned there without any respect to international law. Their numbers were close to 15,000 people. For three years, we were very patient and we hoped that finally, it would be possible to find the solution to the situation. We realized that the situation is not normal. Our proposals from the very beginning of the time - when the Second Karabakh War ended - were very clear. People who live in Karabakh have two options: either to become Azerbaijani citizens  we provided all the necessary legal and also security framework for that  or to find another place to live. There can be no other option. The other option can be a residence permit or work permit to live and to work in the country, which you don't consider to be your country.

So, that option was on the table and unfortunately, our appeals and our statements were not properly addressed.

After our meeting in Shusha last May, in the end of May, at the meeting with people who returned to Lachin - former refuges - I expressed my position on the situation and said that there is an opportunity to find a normal solution to this issue. I also said that the leaders of separatists have a chance for amnesty if they surrender. That was a public statement. But unfortunately again, my words were not properly assessed. So now, the leaders of separatists are in Azerbaijan. They wanted to come here and threatened us that they would come on tanks. But now, they are waiting for the Azerbaijani justice to say its word.

Despite that, we still hoped that we can establish contacts with the representatives of Karabakh Armenians. Unfortunately, those people there who monopolized the so-called power did not allow that to happen. Moreover, in September, there were two events, which actually were considered by us as crossing over the last red lines. First, the congratulation from the Armenian Prime Minister to the so-called nagorno-karabakh republic with respect to its so-called independence, which was totally in contradiction with what the Armenian Prime Minister said and signed. Because October last year was the time when the Armenian Prime Minister officially recognized Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan. After that, after many statements in the same direction, sending a congratulation letter to separatists is absolutely unacceptable, and is very contradictory.

And the second - just the week after that - and the last red line was so-called elections of the so-called president of the so-called nagorno-karabakh republic, which was also a total violation of verbal agreements after the Second Karabakh War, that nothing is going to be changed in that area.

So, one day, in even less than one day, the anti-terror operation totally allowed us to restore our sovereignty. As soon as the operation started  by the way, the operation was held without any damage to civilian infrastructure, any casualty among civilians  we announced that if the army laid down its weapons, we would stop and allow them to leave. So, it lasted less than 24 hours. After they announced that they surrender, all the actions on the ground had stopped.

So, this is actually what happened. I think, the most important events that happened since our last meeting in May. Now we are in the face of addressing several international challenges. Unfortunately, we face some misunderstanding from the countries, which we considered to be our partners. And we are trying to explain our position and also trying to explain that international law norms are obligatory for all. They should not be selective. And what has Azerbaijan done? It has done the right for self-defense based on UN Charter, Article 51. It was done based on international law and the sovereign right of Azerbaijan to control fully its territory as any other country should do.

You was in Zangilan yesterday. I know that my representatives in the liberated areas informed you about the reconstruction. I don't want to go much into details. Of course, if you have questions about that, I will be ready to answer, but I don't want to take much of your time, because if I start talking about what has been done during the last three years, our time will expire. So, I would prefer to stop now and continue our discussions.

Assistant to the President Hikmet Hajiyev: Mr. President, with your permission we can start our interactive discussion and a Q&A session. I will ask our distinguished participants present themselves. Please also identify your institution and country that you represent. First question, we will start with Ambassador Matthew Bryza.

Ambassador Matthew Bryza: Mr. President, Matthew Bryza, the Jamestown Foundation. Yeah, I agree that we're not gonna talk about the reconstruction. But, I have to say it was really impressive. The degree of strategic planning, the execution that's happening, the massive coordination, removing mines, restoring infrastructure, bringing people back already - and just talking to the rector before this. In our lifetimes, there's nowhere else where there's been such a huge area of devastation thats going to be totally rebuilt. I mean, it's unprecedented and it's happening and we got to see it, so thank you for that. But my question is that It is a comment and a question.

In my experience, working on the conflict for a while, a long time, it was consistently Azerbaijan's position and yours, that of course, you want to restore the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. First and foremost, Azerbaijani displaced persons will return to their homes, but also your position as I recall, was that you wanted the Armenian population to remain, return and be neighbors again with Azerbaijanis and you gave several interviews during the war when you said that. Does Prime Minister Pashinyan really realize that and if so, is he trying to persuade his voters of the same? Thank you.

President Ilham Aliyev: First of all, thank you for your words about what you've seen and about our plans for reconstruction. We really try to do maximum in order to create most comfortable conditions for former refugees.

They deserve it, because they lived in difficult conditions for 30 years. It was not only physical conditions, but also psychological situation of people who were deprived from their homes for 30 years. And they lived waiting for the time when they can return. Now, when we liberated the territories, we do everything in order to speed up the process with full understanding about the dangers, as you mentioned, the mines is a major danger. At the same time, we want to do everything properly. We want the process to be as fast as possible, but with understanding that it must be done using the best architectural experience, the best technology, including green technology, and the best conditions for living.

So, actually, liberated territories will be a kind of a demonstration of a new approach in building of cities. So, I think, this experience will be very useful for many other countries and many cities, which face more or less the same.

For us, of course, the most important was to provide former refugees with decent conditions and with jobs. By the way, I'd like to tell you that employment is also one of the important areas, which we concentrate while planning the return process. So, most of the people who have been returned already have jobs and this once again demonstrates that the approach is absolutely comprehensive.

With respect to your question, I'd like to say that during these three years - after the end of the Second Karabakh War - on several occasions, I publicly stated that we consider Armenians living in Karabakh as our citizens. We think that they have been the subject of manipulation by the leaders of separatists. We offered them conditions under which they can stay and continue to live on that area. And that was totally in line with international law, as I already said. The only thing they had to do was that they had to apply for the Azerbaijani citizenship. The issues related to their security and rights have also been addressed. On many occasions, we said that their security will be provided in line with the Azerbaijani constitution, and the Azerbaijani commitment in front of international organizations. With respect to their rights, we publicly stated that their rights will also be provided based on that. The process was taking a long time, and then, we realized that there is a kind of barrier between us and Armenians in Karabakh. I don't know whether that barrier was built by the Armenian government or local separatists. Then, we decided to start talking, and I appointed a special representative of the President - one of members of our parliament  and assigned him with a task to start talking with the representatives of Armenian community. We even agreed that the first meeting would take place in Khojaly  at that time still under occupation  in the premises of the Russian peacekeeping forces. That meeting took place. It was the first meeting, where we made a proposal that we want them to stay and to integrate. And the word reintegration, which I use many times, unfortunately, was met with a kind of irony, both from the Armenian government and also from separatists. The same separatists who now wait for the verdict in the detention center. Our proposal was to organize the second meeting in the city of Yevlakh, which is very close to Karabakh area, less than one hour drive and to have these meetings regularly. Unfortunately, the Karabakh Armenians, I mean those who consider themselves leaders refused. So, many times, at least twice, we made a public statement that we invite them and they refused.

So, there were no contacts. They did not want even to talk to us. Then, we decided to go through different channels. We made it public. We made public our proposal for reintegration. It was published, you can find it. Anyone can get acquainted with that. We opened a reintegration electronic portal, where everyone can register as a person who wants to get the Azerbaijani citizenship. All the rights, which we offered to them, of course, was also a subject for further consultations. But what we offered to them was absolutely acceptable and based on the best practices based on European conventions on national minorities, European Conventional languages, the right for education in their own language, religious rights, cultural rights, municipal rights  to select their representatives through municipal elections. We even deliver the message to them that we will have a municipal elections in the end of 2024, so, they will participate. They will select their representatives, who will be the leaders of the municipalities.

So, what else should we have provided or offered? It was maximum and it was totally transparent. This proposal was sent by us to those capitals, which wanted to be mediators. I mean the European Union, Brussels and Washington. So, we did it absolutely transparently. But their answer was no. And you know, when they agreed to meet? Only after 20 September. After September 20, when we already had to use force in order to restore our sovereignty, the representatives came to Yevlakh. They came twice, not once. The question is why didn't they come before? If they came before, there would have been no need for anti-terror operation. So, this is history, the recent history.

So, what about now? Now this proposal is on the table. Our electronic portal is functioning. We had already several appeals from the Karabakh Armenians. Some of them prefer to stay there and they live there. We assigned our representatives from the State Migration Agency and the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population to take care of those who cannot provide their own comfort. Because, now it's the area, where you have to be protected by social agency, because you have to eat, you have to have heating, you have to have other means of living. Not many of them, I would say remained. But those who remain, they have been taken care of and those who want to come back, they can use a mechanism, which I already informed you about.

Hikmet Hajiyev: The next question. Mr. Glen Howard.

Glenn Howard, the former President of The Jamestown Foundation: Thank you very much. It's a great opportunity to be here and thank you for the opportunity to travel to Zangilan and to see the reconstruction efforts that are occurring. Congratulations that all the special representatives speak excellent English and are able to explain their thoughts in very clear and concise ways with PowerPoint slides. So, that helps get the message across. It's great to be back in Azerbaijan again with many friends and colleagues that are here. My question for you is - Is that your vision about the future of the Organization of Turkic States? As the President, you attend the November 4th Organization of Turkic States Summit in Astana, and you said at that meeting that security to defense and defense industry cooperation should be increased. So, my question is for you. Do you believe that the Organization of Turkic States can evolve into a security alliance, a bloc of states, a sort of Turkic version of NATO, to counter outside powers, but what is your vision for going forward with the Organization of Turkic states? Thank you.

President Ilham Aliyev: Thank you for quoting what I said. I said that taking into account today's geopolitical reality. If you look at my previous statements  I participated in these events many times  I mainly cover the issues of humanitarian cooperation, issues related to our cultural heritage, our historical and ethnic and linguistic roots. But this time, I think it was proper to talk about that. Because we are facing absolutely new situation in the world unpredictable and still, at least, we here in Azerbaijan  I think as many other countries  do not know what will be the end of this geopolitical confrontation between Russia and the West. Therefore, taking into account the situation in our region, in the Caucasus, situation on the borders of the countries of Central Asia, particularly in Afghanistan, the issues of security should be top priority. For us it was top priority, at least for the last 20-25 years, because of the conflict. Because we understood that if we would not be able to resolve it peacefully, we would have to do it by force.

Therefore, we built our army, we built a lot of other security infrastructure, and, of course, and organized a lot of training for military servicemen. The time demonstrated that it was the right policy, because without that, today, we would have been talking with Armenians about nobody knows what.

So, my message was that let's concentrate on that. We have big potential. We have big geography. We have huge energy resources, which is today, matter of national security more than ever before. It's actually the source of existence, independent existence. We have geography, which covers the area from Europe to Asia and even to Eastern Asia. We have already some of transportation infrastructure, which can be used now and we're using now. We have friendly environment en route of the East-West Corridor, and why not to unite our efforts?

So far, we don't go as far as talking about some quasi-NATO institution. I think, at the first stage, there must be a kind of a common consensus about how we move with respect to providing our shared security, if all the countries agree on that. I just expressed Azerbaijan's position. If you asked me about some additional ideas about that, yes, I think that we need to have a very close cooperation in defense, in defense industry, joint manufacturing, joint trainings of military servicemen, joint efforts with respect to the protection of our borders. Because this is one of the most important issues from point of view of national security and stability for the countries of the Organization of Turkic States to elaborate kind of a roadmap to achieve that target. I think it would be very useful from the practical point of view and each country can contribute to this common cause. Of course, this is only the preliminary stage. What I said at the last Summit was my message to my colleagues.

Now in the process of consultations, we will see how far we can go. I just expressed Azerbaijan's position how far we can go. I think that this position is based not only on our experience in recent years, but also on the unpredictable situation in the region and in the world in general.

Hikmet Hajiyev: Dennis Sammut. Please Dennis, introduce your institution and the country that you represent.

Dennis Sammut, the Director of LINKS Europe: Dennis Sammut, Director of LINKS Europe, European foundation based in the Netherlands. Mr. President, the history will remember you as the leader who won the 2020 Karabakh War. In many ways, that victory has defined your presidency. However, I wonder, do you also want to be remembered as the leader who brought peace to your country and to the South Caucasus region? And what steps are you taking in this direction? I read your speeches very carefully and on many occasions you have spoken about the need for a peace agreement with Armenia. But for a number of years now, this objective seems to have been elusive. Do you consider that there are risks and the delay in signing this peace agreement? Will spoilers try to use the opportunity to stop Armenia and Azerbaijan from actually coming to an agreement? And do you think that a sense of urgency should be introduced into the process of finalizing this process?

President Ilham Aliyev: In one of the interviews, Ive said that liberation of territories was a main goal of my political life. And I'm proud that these goals have been achieved. How I will be remembered will depend on many factors. Frankly speaking, I don't even have time to think about it. And even if I think about that, it is beyond my capability to influence that. With respect to peace, I think we brought peace. We brought peace by war. I think this is something, which should also be evaluated broader than just a local situation in the Caucasus. How to achieve peace by military means? For many years during the times of negotiations and occupation, I heard from the Minsk Group co-chairs  three of them in one voice saying that there is no military solution to the conflict. It happens that they were wrong, all the three.

Despite history of statehood, great international experience, being permanent members of the UN Security Council, they were wrong. I think that either they just were wrong, because of the wrong assessment or it was a kind of a message to Azerbaijan that you will not succeed, if you resort to non-peaceful scenario. We proved that there is a military solution to the conflict. So, the conflict is resolved.

Actually, the conflict was resolved three years ago, when we liberated a big part of the occupied territories. Restoration of our sovereignty was just a matter of time. It was clear that at that time, with the geographical situation, the so-called nagorno-karabakh republic, which has not been recognized even by Armenia, has no chance to survive as so-called independent quasi-state. They had two chances: either to integrate with the rest of Azerbaijan or to go to history. So, I clearly realized that at that time. One of the reasons why we were not in a hurry was that I clearly realized that, okay, in a five-year time we will achieve what we want. So, the anti-terror operation was not planned by us in November 2020. That's what I can say very openly. So, the war as a facilitator to peace. I think it clearly proves that it is possible.

Another thing is with respect to the formal peace, and I think that you mentioned particularly that peace agreement. I think it's also must be analyzed by international experts that a country, which suffered the thirty years of occupation, devastation, total destruction of its territory, ethnic cleansing and genocide, right after the liberation by itself, not by international mediators, offered peace. So, it was us, who offered peace to Armenia.

I remember after the war when at that time former Minsk Group was coming and going, I felt that they themselves do not know what to do. Because their job now is not needed any longer. Azerbaijan implemented most of the provisions of the so-called Madrid principles, which were considered as a basis for settlement. They didn't know what to do.

It was again Azerbaijan, we said we need to have a peace agreement. We said we need to have commissions on delimitation. It was not Armenia, it was not Brussels, it was not Washington, Paris or Moscow, it was us. And that's how the process started. Then, we saw that nothing happens. So, we decided to elaborate the principles for a peace agreement. We elaborated them and sent them to Armenia. And then again, there was silence and then we made it public. So, we made public those famous five principles, which Armenia seems now more ready to accept. If they accepted them or basically accepted them three years ago, there'll be no need for anti-terror operation.

So, this is again the history, but we must know that it demonstrates that Azerbaijan was an advocate for peace, and not Armenia. Another example of just recent months. There have been five or six exchanges of comments - comments to the original Azerbaijani draft. Armenian comments, Azerbaijani comments, pieces of disagreement, agreement. Several times, the foreign ministers met in different places. The last comment we sent was on September 11. So just for more detailed information about what this peace agreement is  its a document of maybe six-seven pages maximum with less than 20 articles. So for such a small document, Armenia needed 70 days to respond to us. And they responded only after the Azerbaijani foreign minister publicly disclosed that. Look, we're waiting for two months. Why don't you respond?

So, this shows that the side, which delays the process is not Azerbaijan, it is Armenia. Why did they delay? I don't know, whether it was their own decision or they were advised by their new friends in some European capitals. I don't know, I can only suspect. But the fact is that the comments, which we sent on September 11, we received on November 21. So, now our Foreign Ministry is evaluating those comments and we'll send it back.

I think after that the meeting of foreign ministers will be appropriate. Because now we see that still we are not close to the consensus, but many important issues, which Armenia insisted on in the beginning, now do not exist any longer. They do not exist on the ground, and they do not exist in their comments. I don't want to go much into the details, because you understand it's the confidential document.

I think now we are making one more step. But again, Azerbaijan was an initiator, Azerbaijan was a country, which actually demonstrated its will and I hope that it will not take much time to come to an agreement. But one just observation  the peace agreement does not actually, totally reflect peace. Peace agreements were signed between many countries, which violated that peace. Or there is no peace agreement between the Soviet Union then Russia now and Japan. At the same time, these countries before the Russian-Ukrainian war were very close partners and friends - a lot of businesses, a lot of investments, a lot of mutual contacts.

So for these countries, whether it was the Soviet Union or Russia and Japan, the formal peace agreement was not an obstacle for normal interaction. I don't want to seem like I am following the same historical pattern, but this is also one of the options. I think when we talk about peace agreement, we should not be preoccupied with the formal side of that. What do we need actually, now I mean Azerbaijan? We need firm, verified guarantees that there'll be no attempt of revanchism in Armenia. Why we need it? Because we know what is happening in Armenia, and also we know that Armenia have very bad advisors in some European capitals.

Even without mentioning that capital, I think everybody understands whom I mean. So, this could be a trigger. So far, these are provocative advices, but we do not exclude that they'll turn into destructive advices. So, we must have a guarantee that there'll be no more war between the two countries and that Armenia totally agrees with the situation, and what they say about territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, they really mean. They should forget about former nagorno-karabakh republic and be constructive on delimitation of border. So, that is actually peace.

The paper, which will be signed, of course, has importance, but important for us especially after 30 years of Armenian unwillingness to liberate even one centimeter of our land. Not previous Karabakh clan leaders, who became president, but Pashinyan himself when he said Karabakh is Armenia, and that's it in Khankendi in 2019 - what did he mean? And nobody asks him this question. And when his defense minister said that there will be a new war for new territories threatening Azerbaijan with occupation also in 2019, it was not Kocharyan-Sargsyan gang. It was Pashinyan, it was him. Now he tells Karabakh is Azerbaijan. Because we won the war, not because he transformed his ideology. Ideology is the same. They still live with this ideology. The difference between the Armenian government and opposition only is that the Armenian government clearly understands that if they continue to contest our territorial integrity, we will crush them again, no matter who stands behind them. No matter who tells them what in that famous, beautiful European capital. The opposition wants it, because they want to overthrow Pashinyan. They want this to happen. They want him to make this mistake, and then to come to power. So, we need the guarantees, which we can see with our eyes. So, that will be the best factor for peace in Caucasus.

Ekaterine Metreveli, the President of the Georgian Foundation for Strategic and International Studies: Thank you, Mr. President for sharing with us your insights and I also want to join my predecessors in appreciating yesterday's visit. You know, to say very shortly, it was impressive. I wish you personally and Azerbaijan success on this future development of the region and repatriation of the IDPs, which, we all understand, is not an easy process. Now about my question. It is kind of diverting from what I've been discussing more in a different direction. Azerbaijan has been becoming important geopolitically, geo-economically to EU. The EU is Azerbaijans foremost trading partner, also Azerbaijan is an important energy supplier to the EU, and there are plans to advance on this direction. And in this context, Georgia also plays an important role as a partner and friend, as a transit country. Of course, our friendship is not based on the transit only, there are different dimensions but in this context. We aspire to become the part of the EU, as you know, and hope to get the positive answer in December and then there hopefully would be future steps. Azerbaijan remains just a partner for the EU. What do you think Georgia's drifting towards the EU, closer approximation will affect Azerbaijan and Georgia relations? How will you evaluate in general the increased EU role in the South Caucasus?

President Ilham Aliyev: Thank you very much for your comments about what we're doing in Karabakh. Thank you for being with us. You're absolutely right, Georgia and Azerbaijan are close partners. And of course, our partnership is much broader than energy cooperation. Though, this cooperation allowed us to present ourselves in Europe as a consolidated team of strategic importance. My regular visits to Georgia and Georgian Prime Minister's regular visits to Azerbaijan are not only signs of cooperation, but during these visits very important issues are being discussed.

With respect to Georgia's aspirations to become a member of EU, we can understand it and wish Georgia success and congratulate our Georgian friends with this new developments and the status, which they got. Understanding that, of course, it's a process. We know some countries waited for many years. I don't want to mention Turkiye, because with Turkiye it was absolutely unacceptable and unjust approach to keep Turkiye far from Europe, despite of being a candidate for so many years. Also if you look to the Balkans, we'll see that the countries still have to wait. As far as I see the situation now with respect to discussions on the European track, there is not a consensus about expansion, but this is my observation, anyway, I wish success. When Georgia becomes a member of EU, I'm sure nothing will change in our relations and also with respect to the energy cooperation, because you know that Europe is a main destination for our energy resources, whether it's oil or gas. The European energy commission called Azerbaijan already a pan-European gas supplier, which is true. So, many countries are already receiving our gas. Most of them are European countries and many to come. Because we are now in the process not only of negotiations, but also physical connections between European countries and also in the process of negotiation with some, so, nothing will change. I think that though Azerbaijan does not have the target to become EU member in its foreign policy concept for very pragmatic reason, just because we will never be allowed in. And the reason is also very clear, and we understand it.

We live in real world, not in virtual. So, if you will not be allowed in, why should you knock the door? You will only irritate the home owner, and only humiliate yourself, if they don't want you.

We found a way how to build relations. Though, I would say that recent statement of Mr. Borrell are absolutely counterproductive. His yesterdays statement about 150,000 of Armenians who left Karabakh are false. I regret such an experienced European diplomat is lying. Even Armenians themselves said there have been 100,000 of people who left Karabakh, not 150,000. If Mr. Borrell continues like that in one month, he will say there'll be 200,000. It will depend on the dreams, which he sees. But again, it is absolutely unacceptable, not only this manipulation with figures, but also accusations against Azerbaijan with respect to something, which we havent done. Especially, it is strange that his country as our Foreign Ministry already announced suffered from separatism. So, how can he defend separatists? This is very strange. So, approaching broader to your question, first, I'm sure that when Georgia becomes an EU member, nothing will change in our relations. On the contrary, we will have another close friend in EU, which will defend us. We hope that the Georgian members of European Parliament will educate European parliamentarians about Azerbaijan, and they will be more realistic.

Why I say that? In one of my telephone conversations with President of the European Council, Mr. Charles Michel, I told him that Chairman of the European Parliament Madame Metsola, after our anti-terror operation, said that gas relationship and gas contracts with Azerbaijan must be terminated. I told Mr. Charles Michel that probably she does not know how these things are being managed. Because if one side terminate the contract, it should pay a penalty. And first, she should ask those who are in charge of the energy policy of the European Union how the European Union asked Azerbaijan to help them last year with more gas for Europe, because of the cuts of supplies from Russia, and how we responded? Unfortunately, we have these kinds of people. I would say there are populist leaders in Europe like Mr. Borrell, like Madame Metsola. I always prefer to speak openly, because I fully disagree with their policy and their attitude to Azerbaijan, because it is not fair and it is not in the interests of the European Union and European institutions. But in general, if we talk about the European Commission, of course, we have excellent relations. We highly value this relations, they are of strategic importance and not only energy, not only gas, not only oil, soon it will be hydrogen. You know very well the project, which involved Georgia, Azerbaijan, Romania and Hungary. So, it's a big game changer, and we are already in the face of implementation.

Very soon, we will have a final report about feasibility study and hopefully we'll start physical construction. It is transportation, it is connectivity. For people like Josep Borrell, it's enough to look at the map and see where Azerbaijan is situated. If they want to be active in the Central Asia, and we see that they do want, and we see traffic in both directions. How they can avoid Azerbaijan? Are they going to contact the Central Asia countries through Iran or through Russia? Or they have wings? They have to think about that before making these statements.

Assistant to the President Hikmet Hajiyev: Aziza Umarova.

Aziza Umarova (Uzbekistan): Your Excellency, it's a great pleasure to be here. I'm from Uzbekistan, we observe many state visits between the countries. But I think also what is definitely worth mentioning is that there is a very beautiful dynamic between the leaders of the two countries. I also have to say it was excellent to hear that Uzbekistan was one of the first countries to support the rebuilding efforts, specifically a school in Fuzuli. I think, it is a small contribution to the overall huge endeavor by your government. My question is about the connectivity efforts in light of Karabakh return and specifically, I would like to ask your opinion about the following. So, we know very well that for Central Asia, Trans-Caspian corridor will create the opportunities and it will be very promising in terms of connecting, as we know very well, the Black Sea, Mediterranean and further to Europe. In the meantime, we also have as a national priority, development of the railroad between China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan that, if connected with the Middle Corridor, can create win-win for Central Asian countries connecting the South Asia all the way to Europe. We also understand very well the opportunities in light of the return of Karabakh and the EU geopolitical dynamic, but there are also some constraints. I would like to ask your opinion on what type of constraints you foresee and how we can possibly collectively work together to tackle them to make these beautiful projects happen. Thank you.

President Ilham Aliyev: Thank you very much. I just want to a little bit correct you - Uzbekistan was not one of the first countries, but was the first country, which offered us this brotherly support. And as you know, with my brother President Mirziyoyev, we jointly inaugurated the school, which was named after the great son of Uzbek people Mirzo Ulugbek in Fuzuli, and this was a great contribution to reconstruction and also great contribution to our brotherly relations, because people of Azerbaijan, not only those who live in Fuzuli, will never forget that.

I just recently had a chance to see President Mirziyoyev in Baku. He told me its his third visit during one year. I reminded him that last year I visited Uzbekistan three times. So, we have very active traffic of personal contacts, not to mention on the level of ministers.

We have elaborated a very broad agenda of cooperation in transportation, energy investments, in automobile industry. Really, it's a partnership, which both sides can be proud of, and with a great potential for the future. So, we just in the beginning of our mutual investment projects. We already created a joint investment fund with the initial reserves of 500 million dollars. Our teams are already identifying the projects in both countries and in third countries, which we will be jointly investing in.

With respect to connectivity, I congratulate you and also Kyrgyzstan and China with launching of this important railroad project. I know that it was discussed for many years, and now it's already officially announced to be started. Of course, it will be a huge contribution to the Middle Corridor, and for us, it will be, of course, very attractive, because the direction is towards the Caspian. Even now without this railroad, there are opportunities to use the Trans-Caspian route for Uzbek companies. They do indeed not in the large quantities, but I think now when we are actively working on issues related to digitalization of our transportation infrastructure, and also on common policy on tariffs, it will be more attractive. So, the route is definitely much more attractive from point of view of timing, but it is not competitive in comparison with the maritime route, which is obvious.

Our task is to make the route more commercially attractive. For that purpose, of course, we need to implement a joint policy on tariffs and digitalization, so that those who sent a cargo can trace the movement of their cargo and not only that but also physical investments in infrastructure. We already completed the full reconstruction of the railroad from Baku to the Georgian border. Now the train have a speed of 120 km/hr, which is faster in comparison with several years ago (50-60 km/hr).

At the same time, the expansion of a Georgian segment of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railroad also will be finished in a month or two. It is again 100% Azerbaijani investment, more than 100 million US dollars. That segment will be expanded from 1 million to 5 million tons maximum in a couple of months.

So, these are new opportunities for receiving new cargos. And also a road, which will go through the liberated territories, particularly through Zangilan - probably, you've seen the railroad, which is already there. We had a plan to continue this road through Armenia, but Armenia refused it. So, we agreed with the Iranian side, and we're already building a bridge for cars and then a bridge for trains to bypass Armenia and to build about 50 kilometers railroad on the southern bank of the Araz River. Then, it enters Nakhchivan and there'll be a connection with the Turkish railroad system. We were informed by the Turkish side that the Kars-Nakhchivan railroad is also planned to be built. So, it will be another extension of the Middle Corridor - one goes through Georgia to Kars and to Mediterranean ports, and another goes through Zangilan, Iran, Nakhchivan, and again Turkiye. So, this increases the physical capacity, but in the meantime, we need also to make this road more commercially attractive. For that purpose, we already created a very efficient cooperation format between Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan and Turkiye.

I think that if other countries of Central Asia, particularly Uzbekistan, would consider joining the format, it will be only better for all of us. This really is a new map - new transportation map of Eurasia with great potential. With respect to Karabakh reconstruction, the main obstacles, of course, are landmines and time. So, our rival is time, because we want to do it as soon as possible. Apart from that, we don't have any other obstacles with accumulated financial resources for that. Reconstruction of Karabakh will be the main part of our investment program. Just for comparison, I would say that we will spend much more for Karabakh reconstruction  I mean state investments - more than for the rest of the country.

Not just we neglect the rest of the country. The rest of the country already enjoyed multi-billion investments during many years, and most of the infrastructure projects have already been completed. But now Karabakh is our top priority. The area and most importantly, the people who are waiting to go back home.

Jordi Xucla, the Professor of international relations and former member of the Spanish Parliament and PACE: Thank you. Jordi Xucla from Spain. Professor of international relations, former member of the Spanish Parliament and former member of PACE.

President, it is an honor to be here. It had been a very special visit to the liberated territories. When I was a chair of the Committee of the so-called Karabakh conflict in the Council of Europe, and I had the responsibility to organize on a regular basis meetings between Azerbaijani MPs and Armenian MPs in the very noising manner. It was difficult to imagine, to realize the end of this occupation and the solution based on international law and with respect to territorial integrity and diverse society. So, I think that in terms of the historical perspective, this is an historical moment. My question is about the new frame of relations between Azerbaijan and European Union. I guess that the President of the European Council Charles Michel, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen have a realistic and common sense approach about the relationship between Azerbaijan and European Union based on this new frame of bilateral relations, overcame the so called Easter Partnership, which is quite complex to harmonize. Based on geopolitical reasons European Union finds reliable partners not only for energy reason, for new economic projects and for geopolitical situations. On the other hand, we see how European Parliament and other bodies of PACE with zero competence, zero competence in international relations easily release some statements based on another level of politics. European Council and European Commission work in a realistic approach and the other works in another one. All in all, I think that the balance of the new frame of relation between your country and European Union could be very positive. Thank you very much.

President Ilham Aliyev: Thank you very much. I fully share your analysis and what you say for me is very important, because you are there, you are saying it from inside and this totally corresponds to my understanding of the situation. With respect to the European Council and the European Commission, as you said, we have very good contacts and the President of the European Council and President of the European Commission both visited Azerbaijan. And we broadly discussed issues related to our cooperation, not only energy, though it was one of the main topic of conversation. The European Union is our main trading partner. The trade with the European Union makes up almost 50% of our foreign trade. With nine members of the European Union, Azerbaijan signed or adopted declarations on strategic partnership. So, this is 1/3 of the member states. This really demonstrates that our cooperation on national level and on the level of institutional contacts is very good. Being a strategic partner means a lot, it's a big responsibility for cooperation. With respect to efforts of President of the European Council Charles Michel, Azerbaijan and me personally always supported his efforts in finding long-lasting solution to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. There have been several meetings organized by him in Brussels. We are now in the process of discussions about a potential new meeting. My assistant Hikmat Hajiyev is in regular contact with the team of President Charles Michel. There have been already five meetings. The next meeting should be result-oriented. We need to agree the draft statement before. It must be agreed between Azerbaijan, Armenia and the European Council. The meeting must be well-prepared and result-oriented. Because if it is not result-oriented, then it will send the wrong message to our peoples and also to international community. That's our position and I think it is met with understanding in Brussels. Also with the European Commission, we work on different tracks. One track is the commission for enlargement, when we have very active cooperation, and another one is the energy commission. We organize regularly meetings of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council, which is chaired by the European Energy Commission and Azerbaijan`s Ministry of Energy. The next meeting will take place within two-three months again in Baku. We got a request from the European Commission to increase our gas supply to Europe taking into account their shortage. We allocated substantial amounts of money - hundreds of millions of euros, if not billions - in order to increase the production from existing gas fields. One of the factor, which will help us to supply more gas to Europe, is energy efficiency and renewables. The more renewables we have, the more gas we will save, which we use for production of electricity. Very soon, there'll be a new important milestone  interconnector between Serbia and Bulgaria, which is ready. Serbia will soon start to receive Azerbaijani gas. Hungary already started receiving Azerbaijani gas, including Romania. Albania will also start receiving Azerbaijani gas after the completion of gasification project, which we finance in Albania. Members of the European Union - Italy, Bulgaria, Greece - they have already been recipients of the Azerbaijani gas for several years.

So, these are all very positive factors - we talk about connectivity, trade and investments. But I agree with you that there are the group of very irresponsible people in the European Parliament, behave like maniacs. Because of their anti-Azerbaijani sentiments and statements are beyond any normal psychological status of a human being. I want to use maximum diplomatic vocabulary. So, what can we do? They adopted more than 10 anti-Azerbaijan resolutions. One more, one less doesn't make any difference for us. It is regretful, and what we regret most of all is that  we don't consider all the members of European Union  but those who are organizing anti-Azerbaijani orchestra, they brainwash the others. And many of the members think that Azerbaijan is like these people present us. Some of their anti-Azerbaijani activists, fortunately, no longer are there, like Madame Eva Kaili, who was one of the activists of the anti-Azerbaijani front, but we know what happened to her and it was in media. I think this also reflects that the European Parliament needs to address its own issues with corruption, first before accusing someone of any wrongdoing.

Of course, it is not only for the government of Azerbaijan, but for the people of Azerbaijan. When they misinterpret the situation in the Caucasus, when they accuse us, the country, which suffered occupation, devastation and genocide, accuse us for restoration of our sovereignty and territorial integrity, they speak against 10 million Azerbaijani people. They need to understand it. If they select me as a target and use insulting statements against me, for me, it doesn't make anything. But for the people of Azerbaijan, who stand behind me and stood behind me during the war and during the anti-terror operation and now, this is a signal for them that this is a group of people, which treat Azerbaijan like an enemy. So, this is regretful. There's a noise, which they produce is not pleasant, it is not damaging, we can live with that. But it is not pleasant.

By the way, we already for many years stopped any official contacts with the European Parliament and officially announced that. And now, we have no interaction. But with the European Commission, as you mentioned, the situation is absolutely different, it is moving in the positive direction. Unfortunately, with the exception of the minor episodes, which I already mentioned the episode with respect to your countrymen.

Daria Isachenko, The German Institute for International and Security Affairs: Thank you very much for this opportunity. My question is also related to your current position about the Western platforms for peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan. What is your current position? Because Baku has recently chosen not to participate in Granada, Brussels and Washington negotiations. So, how do you see the future potential? You already touched upon the role of EU and I would like to ask you to focus specifically on the role of the EU given its interest in energy and connectivity. And in connection to this, relatedly or unrelatedly what is also your assessment of the future potential of the 3+2 platform, Baku has initiated and has been recently revived. How do you see the future of this regional platform of solving regional problems with regional partners? Thank you.

President Ilham Aliyev: Thank you. I already spoke a little bit about the EU mediation, it was basically a mediation of the President of the European Council. When, last year, on the sidelines of the European Political Community Summit in Prague, there was a proposal to invite the President of France to that meeting between President Michel, Prime Minister Pashinyan and myself - I did not object. At that time, I think that can be useful. At that meeting, on October 6, Prime Minister Pashinyan officially recognized Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan. But later, he made different statements, including those, which I already referred to this September, congratulating the so-called nagorno-karabakh republic. At the same time, we considered as positive the result of the meeting in Prague. And we were ready to continue in this format.

But unfortunately, a week after President of France in one of his TV interviews, used very strange and inappropriate wording about Azerbaijan. But what we've done? He actually cut himself from the process. Because our position was very clear - you can be a mediator, when you are neutral. If you take sides, you lose the chance to be a mediator. We cannot influence the country not to take sides. There are different reasons for that. But in this case, the chance to the mediator is lost. We officially announced that we do not consider any longer, as appropriate, any participation of any representative of France in normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Therefore, and for that particular reason, I did not go to Granada.

But before Granada, there was also Chisinau. Chancellor of Germany Olaf Scholz also was in Chisinau, who said and I remember, when you need us, you tell us. And that was very a wise approach. Because you cannot impose yourself to be a mediator, when somebody doesn't want.

Granada meeting was scheduled on October 5, and coming back to the previous question, the same day, the European Parliament organized discussions on Azerbaijan. So, they deliberately planned this anti-Azerbaijan resolution to be adopted the day, I was supposed to be in Granada in order to demonstrate their position on Azerbaijan. That was also a reason, why I did not go. The first reason was France, and third reason was that meeting was not prepared. This meeting was supposed to take place after two weeks of the anti-terror operation. Two weeks after the total change of the situation on the ground. Therefore, the meeting should have been prepared. What kind of documents are we are planning to adopt? What will be the statements? How the statement should be agreed? There was nothing about that. No information about that. So, that's why I didn't participate, but I was very surprised that they convened this meeting without me. So, there is a Russian saying -     - it means that you married me without myself. So, how can they adopt the resolution on Azerbaijan-Armenia, four of them, without me? I still cannot understand.

This is the current situation. What we have now on the table? We have mediation process, which is organized by the European Council. We have one track of negotiations between foreign ministers, which we call the Moscow track. And we had until recent famous hearings in the US Congress, the so-called Washington track, where the foreign ministers met in Washington. So, now it seems that Washington track is also out of the picture. Because official representative of a State Department, who is today here in Baku, said that there'll be no business as usual with Azerbaijan. He accused Azerbaijan of what Azerbaijan hasn't done. So, if there is no business as usual, it means no business as usual on every track. And at the same time, it was announced that they put a restriction on the visits of high-ranking Azerbaijan officials to the United States for the first time in the history of our relations with the United States, which are of strategic importance for both countries. This administration is trying to ruin them. I don't know for which reason.

We said okay, if there will be no high-ranking official visits from Azerbaijan to United States, then how can our foreign minister go there? You say there will be no visits, but you invite our foreign minister. Can you explain us?

And well, I don't want to go much into details. So, if no business as usual, okay, we accept it. Then, it means that Washington is also out of the picture. So either, they should say that business as usual continues, and I hope to hear it today and we will restore the Washington process, or there'll be only Brussels and Moscow. And maybe, there'll be also bilateral negotiations. Because, for instance, I can tell you that co-chairs of the commissions on delimitation of Armenia and Azerbaijan met on April 30 on our conditional border, and discuss the issues of delimitation. So, there can be even just a bilateral track between Azerbaijan and Armenia without any mediation. This is also an option. Mediation, I think can be helpful from point of view of elaboration, maybe of some ideas from the mediator, which both sides cannot due to some reasons elaborate. But if mediation process is over, then it will be a bilateral track. So, this is with respect to the negotiation process. Apart from that, I already said, with European Union, our relations are well-balanced, basically, positive. We were working actively on the new document of cooperation. It is now on standby, but I hope soon we can restart our joint activity on finalizing. Because more than 90% of that new cooperation agreement was already agreed. Thank you.

Hikmat Hajiyev: Thank you. Our next question is Stephanie Fenkart.

Stephanie Fenkart, the Director of the International Institute for Peace: Thank you very much, Mr. President for hosting us here. It is my first time that I'm participating in this forum and my question goes a little bit back to what you already said earlier. I'm from Austria. I am working for the International Institute for Peace. So it is going to be about peace. And with a long history of the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan, you know, it's so much trauma, so much lack of trust, especially and obviously, as well as other feelings of injustice. So you also said, and research and data also shows that peace agreements are most sustainable if they are also perceived as just by all parties involved. So that is one thing. So, my question would be if justice is a very important thing for that, do you think that tackling issues of transitional justice, truth and reconciliation from all the wars (so the first and the second,) including also the terror operation, if you put it all together could actually lead to more successful and sustainable peace or even peace process? And if so, you know, I'm thinking about examples of German-French rapprochement, a very long-term perspective, maybe even the South African example, even though knowing it, there is no blueprint for that. But how would you assess this and who could be maybe a moderator or facilitator in this and since I'm from Austria, what about Austria? Maybe. We are neutral country, but having like all the international organizations still there. Thank you.

President Ilham Aliyev: Thank you. I think Austria can be a good mediator for those particular reasons, which you mentioned and also because at international events, we all sit next to each another due to the alphabet. We always have a chance sitting on international events to exchange views with Austrian and Armenian colleagues. With respect to the peace agreement, as I said already, now we're closer to that because when we initiated the process, one of the issues of disagreement was Armenian side`s efforts to integrate into peace agreement, reference to so-called nagorno-karabakh republic, which, of course, we could not accept. They tried to integrate it through different wording schemes but it was more or less the same. Our approach was that we cannot specify on that, and the agreement between two countries must be fully reciprocal. Therefore, if they want to reflect in their draft agreement issue of Armenians, who live in Azerbaijan as national minorities, then it must also reciprocally reflect the rights of Azerbaijanis, who were deported forcefully from Armenia, to come back there, and to live there, and their rights and security must be protected the same way like rights and security of Armenians in Karabakh. Unfortunately, the Armenian side always rejected that, which was not very logical, because we did not offer something extraordinary, just reciprocal. Or another option was not to reflect this topic at all. So, after September 19, the anti-terror operation, it seems that this obstacle no longer exists. Either we will reflect both national minorities in peace agreement or it will not be reflected at all. Other paragraphs or articles of peace agreement are less problematic. I would not say that they're all already agreed. But I think that with respect to phraseology, with respect to the wording, of course, every word has some political meaning behind it, but it is agreeable. It's a matter of political will only. And as I said, when we were waiting for the Armenian response for 70 days, just for example, I can tell you, when we were sending our comments to Armenia, usually it didn't take more than 14-15 days. So, when they delayed for 70 days, this means something, and, of course, it is not a unilateral process. If Armenia thinks that we need peace more than they do, I think, they are wrong. We need peace the same way they do. If they need it, we need it. If they don't need, we don't need. Even before anti-terror operations, in my contacts with the Armenian side, whether it was in Brussels in the presence of President Charles Michel or on the sidelines of some international events, I said if you do not recognize Azerbaijan's territorial integrity, Karabakh included, we will not recognize your territorial integrity. If you will continue to contest our integrity, we will contest your integrity. I told him that believe me we have more rights, more historical rights, not to recognize your territorial integrity, because we all know how the maps of the Southern Caucasus look like in the beginning of the 20th century. They are available. We all know how the Bolsheviks took Zangezur from Azerbaijan in November 1920, and adjusted it to Armenia just less than six months after sovietization of Azerbaijan. This part was taken from us. So, I told him that we have more historical and political and legal rights to contest your territorial integrity. So, I don't advise you. And now it is the same. So, if they recognize not by statement, but by signature, the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, we will do the same.

Many times, I said that we do not have any plans to occupy Armenian territory, as sometimes we are accused without any grounds of that. If we wanted, we would have done it. I can tell absolutely openly. From all points of view, it is not a big problem. In one day, they laid down their weapons in Karabakh, our flag was raised in Khankendi. So, we don't want it again. The fact that we don't do it means that what I say is right, but at the same time we want that there'll be no potential risk to Azerbaijan in the future. Therefore, we are always raising the issue of weaponization of Armenia. And we think that this is counterproductive. This is provocative. As the countries, who supply Armenia with weapons like France and India, now pour the oil on fire and create unrealistic illusions in Armenia that using these weapons they can take back Karabakh. I don't want to go into details about the quality of these weapons. Though, I know what kind of weapons these are, but even if there's a state-of-the-art weapons, they have no chance. Because the war and the result of war is decided not by weapons, but by people, by spirit. And during the Second Karabakh War, according to Armenians own statements, there have been 12,000 deserters from the battlefield in Armenian army and zero in the Azerbaijani army. So, they have no chance. So, my message to them is don't create a situation here - in the region, when we will be sure that you are planning to damage us. We are not sure yet. That's why we do not react, we observe what France is supplying to Armenia, those armored vehicles, which nobody wants to buy. They do not possess any danger to us. But if we see that there is some serious installation, which can be harmful, we will have to react. And I informed everybody about that. So, there'll be no complaints. But we'll have to react, because every country has to protect its people. And I hope there'll be no need for that. But for that, these new Armenian sponsors, which want to play a role of the new big brother, should relax and enjoy themselves in their beautiful capital.

Iulian Chifu, the President of the Center for Conflict Prevention and Early Warning (Romania): Thank you very much, Mr. President. Thank you. It was an excellent occasion once again to see the region and what you have done in terms of post-conflict reconstruction and the whole efforts that the Azeri has done. My questions goes on the needs to have the return of the Azeri in Armenia if they want to do so. Also maybe its a part of the agreement, maybe some other agreement will conceive that after peace agreement. Armenians are already able to come back to Karabakh as Azeri citizens you already underlined. But my question is  if Azerbaijan considered some policies in order to re-attract the Armenian and those who used to live in Karabakh, in order to offer to them some conditions in such a way that that type of attraction would mean something and will show a lot in political terms. Thank you very much.

President Ilham Aliyev: I already said that those who want to come back they can come back. Their apartments, their houses stay untouched, unlike what you've seen in Zangilan and in other parts totally destroyed. There is a full protection of the Armenian historical heritage, and our military police is now protecting very important sites, including the property of the people, if they want to become citizens of Azerbaijan. As I said, another option is to have a work permit or residence permit based on the common practice, which every country has, based on quotas, which every country has for migrant labor force that can be organized.

Of course, with respect to return of Azerbaijanis to the territory of Armenia, we expect from Armenia, the same approach. At least, to do the same. Also to create an electronic reintegration portal to provide the information about their own villages - most of the villages, where Azerbaijanis lived, either destroyed or abandoned. Because of the poor demographic situation in Armenia, they cannot organize settlement in Azerbaijani villages the way how they want. In some they live, but most of them are empty. So, at least to allow Azerbaijanis to come, to see, to visit, and I think that could be a good sign of reconciliation. Because it was already in the questions or comments about some historical parallels like French-German rapprochement, and I would also say Soviet German after such a bloody Second World War. In less than two decades, the Soviet Union and the Federal Republic of Germany became close partners, not to mention the German Democratic Republic, which immediately you know, was kind of considered as a very friendly  and including the people who lived there  friendly people to people who lived in Soviet Union. What happened between Soviet Union and Germany is a great example of reconciliation. Therefore, we think and we know that Azerbaijanis, who have roots in todays territory of Armenia, are eager to go back. Some of them may consider and, I think, it is absolutely realistic to resettle there in their villages, some want just to come and visit the graves of the ancestors. Some want to just go, visit and come back. So, this must be allowed. Armenia should not block this natural humanitarian need of hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis, who have been deported from there. We demonstrate how it should be. We demonstrate how their property, how their religious sites must be protected, and everyone who goes now to Khankendi and to other places, where there was a majority of Armenian population can see. So, we expect them to do the same. That will be a demonstration of their will for peace.

Hikmat Hajiyev: Thank you. Ferhat Pirincci, our next question.

Ferhat Pirincci, the Director of SETA Academy: Thank you Mr. President, for accepting us. It's an honor to be here. Actually, I want to ask you about the ninth Article of the trilateral Declaration, which we call Zangazur corridor. And when I talk to my Western colleagues and even in the Western media, some claim that Azerbaijan will militarily force Armenia in order to implement this article. What can you say about the process of the implementation of this corridor? And have you ever talked with your counterparts? I mean, Pashinyan administration about implementation of this process. Thank you.

President Ilham Aliyev: Yes, I talked many times to the Prime Minister of Armenia, and asked him why they do not comply with their own commitments. Because, as you mentioned, the Article 9 clearly says that the connection between the western regions of Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan must be provided. And even it says who will provide control and security. It is the Russian border security forces, which is part of the Russian FSB. This is what Mr. Pashinyan signed himself, and now, when he doesn't want any longer neither this route, nor Russian involvement in that, actually, it doesn't mean a lot from legal point of view, it is his commitment. What can we do? We can only say that they violate their commitment. Azerbaijan always respects international commitments, but from the Armenia side we don't see the same. During my numerous meetings in Brussels with the Prime Minister of Armenia, I told him even a couple years ago that we already started to build a railroad connection. Why don't you at least start to prepare a feasibility study? And there was no answer to that. So, I can tell you that these 42 kilometers of the railroad, which existed in Soviet times, is not ready not only for construction, but even feasibility studies have not been completed, maybe, even not started. That means that they don't need that road. Well, we waited and we've been accused that we will take it by force. I'm already tired to say that we don't have such an intention. Then, we had to look for other option. We need to have these connections with Nakhchivan and then, through Nakhchivan with Turkiye. So, we agreed with the Iranian side to build a bypass. Yes, it will cost more, but it's an option and construction already started. Now, our governmental officials from both countries already made a groundbreaking ceremony there, in the village of Aghbend of the Zangilan district of the construction of the automobile bridge, and then will be a railroad bridge. That will be done, and what Armenia is losing - Armenia is losing a lot. First, this will not be only the road between Azerbaijan and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of Azerbaijan. This will be an international transportation corridor. A lot of cargoes will come from Central Asia. We expect a lot of cargoes to come from China. The existing connections between Azerbaijan and Turkiye, as I said  Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railroad even expanded  will not be able to absorb all the cargoes. So, here on this southern route, we will have minimum from five to seven million tons of cargo per year in the beginning, which will be enough. So, Armenia deprived itself from this and also deprived itself from opening of all other communications with Azerbaijan, because now they don't have the railroad connection with Russia because the Georgian road, due to Abkhazia, separatist regime, is closed. They don't have it through Azerbaijan, their railroad with Turkiye, and the border is closed. They are again in the deadlock. I think for them there are two options now; either to start immediately at their own expense or with some European funds money to build the necessary 42 kilometers of railroad, which will be considered as a sovereign territory. We don't have any reservations with respect to their sovereignty, but there must be an easy access from mainland Azerbaijan to Nakhchivan. As I told Prime Minister Pashinyan that will be a road from Azerbaijan to Azerbaijan. And there should be no customs duties, no checks, no border security, when it goes from mainland to Nakhchivan. When it goes from other destination from the Eastern Caspian region to Armenia or even, yes, okay, of course, you can have all these customs duties as in any other country. But from Azerbaijan to Azerbaijan, there should be no checks, no interference, and this is our legitimate right. Actually, I can tell you that one of the issues, which we discussed in Brussels at the meeting organized by President Michel, was to use experience of the Russian Kaliningrad railroad connection. So, all that possible, it was just Armenia, which didn't want. They wanted to block us from this access. When they realizef that we don't need it any longer, they started to complain. Even, we got some very strange statement from the U.S. State Department officials that the United States will not allow this to happen, if it doesnt go through Armenia. So, what can I say? All is just to say uff, what is that? We wanted to do it through Armenia for three years. If you want to do it through Armenia, go and tell your new Armenian friends. So, how can you interfere into our relations with Iran? You say we will not allow it to be built through. How you will not allow? You will bomb it, or what you're gonna do? So, these irresponsible statements actually do not serve any good service to those who articulate them. Of course, it seriously deteriorates the stability and predictability in the region, including the connectivity projects. By the way, also, I already spoke about that. We got information from our partners in Turkiye that the Kars-Nakhchivan railroad also is planned to be built. Thus, it will be, as I said, a transportation corridor, which will serve the benefit of many countries.

Hikmat Hajiyev: Mr. President, we have already taken too much of your time and coming to the end of the designated timeframe, but still we have 10 speakers in our list. If you allow, can we group the questions three as one group and asking the questions group by group?

President Ilham Aliyev: Maybe, lets continue as we go and then we will see.

Hikmat Hajiyev: Then, Rachael Rudolph.

Rachael Rudolph, the Professor at the Beijing Institute of Technology: Mr. President, thank you. Although I'm originally from the United States I live in the high tech area of the Greater Bay, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China. I represent two universities, one in Smithfield, Rhode Island, but also the Beijing Institute of Technology. My question for you is given that true peace requires transformation of the conflict environment. What specific incentive schemes does your Government have for facilitating the return of Azerbaijanis to the liberated areas and how they specifically facilitate a peaceful conflict environment?

President Ilham Aliyev: Prior to the beginning of the great reconstruction project, we conducted a survey based on my instructions among the former refugees.

It was not published. It was just for our internal use. Because we needed to understand how many of them are planning to return. Because we clearly understood that thirty years have passed. Many of those who have been deported already, unfortunately, died. Children, young generation - they haven't seen these places ever. And also many of the former refugees have jobs. So, we needed to know.

I was very glad, and thats what I had expected, that an absolute majority said that they would like to return. Of course, we clearly understood it but where to return? There was nowhere to return. We need to create such conditions for them that will be not even the same like here, but even better. And now, I talk not only about those who live still in the dormitories and in very poor conditions, but even those 300,000 former refugees for who we built new houses and provided them with flats. So, conditions in Karabakh and Zangazur must be better. This is an indicator of the process that has started and will actually be even broader than I expected. I think, you also saw it in Zangilan, in Aghali. When you saw children, when you saw young people, who have never seen those places. And they came and I was there many times and was asking are you're not missing Baku or Sumgayit? You lived in big cities. Now you came here to the village still isolated, because there was nothing around. No, they enjoy their life. Not only those who live then came back. This people is understandable. They have special feelings, but even their children, grandchildren. So, this is very important, I would say a moral factor and psychological factor. Because without that, no matter what we do there will have a zero effect. So, this is important. They want to go back now. Where they will go back? And here we come to what probably you've heard yesterday in Zangilan from my representatives - how we plan the cities, the ecological situation. It will be totally ecologically friendly, in green energy zone. And, of course, employment - probably, as I told you also about these industrial facilities, which are being created in Aghdam, Jabrayil and also Lachin. I would recommend, maybe next time when you convene your forum to go to Lachin, because it is now the most inhabited already city around all the liberated areas. And by next spring, because I know you have your forums twice a year, there will be already thousands of people there. So, this is the plan and so far, it is successful. You'll know about the figures - 140,000 until the end of 2026. It is absolutely realistic.

There is one more important issue with respect to the liberated territories. We also test the new model of governance, as you probably noticed, there is an institute of presidents special representatives. I have four of them so far. There'll be more, and it is absolutely a new form of management. And this positive experience maybe, will be later transformed to the rest of the country. The technological development, the ecologically friendly, business environment - all that will be transferred. So, we already have these plans. We did not yet put it on paper, because first we need to return the main part of the former refuges, but this will be a roadmap for reconstruction and development of the rest of Azerbaijan. For instance, after we announced the Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur as green energy zone, the next step was done with Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. And now we have a plan of building 1500 renewable sources of energy in Nakhchivan. We adopted a special state development program for the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, more or less the same like for Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur program, which is called Big Return. We already assigned companies, international companies, which help us to plan the city planning in Karabakh to do the same in Nakhchivan taking into account already existing city infrastructure. Because geographically and culturally, it was more or less the same region - Karabakh, Zangazur, Nakhchivan - it is more or less the same geographical and cultural environment. So, this will cover a big part of the Azerbaijani territory, in total, will be one quarter of Azerbaijan and the rest part of the country. So, this reconstruction will be a trigger for economic development, for employment, for relocation of labor resources, which we have. It will be also important for cities like Baku and Sumgayit, which become more and more inhabited. So, it will have a multiplicative, positive effect. But again, number one is the former refugees and their life, their decent life on their own land.

Hikmat Hajiyev: Our next question. Jacob Korejba.

Jacob Korejba, the Center for Eurasian Studies: Your Excellency. My name is Jacob Koreba. I am from Poland, but I am representing the Center for Eurasian Studies. It's a pleasure and great honor to be here. Especially that I remember the feeling I had after the meeting in May, after listening to what you said I had this feeling, this impression that the next meeting will happen in very optimistic circumstances. So that I would like to congratulate you and the people of Azerbaijan with victory. My question is about regional integration. Despite some idealistic optimism we see among Eastern partners, and your neighbors and our neighbors, we all understand that European integration has its limits; political, technical, ideological, and that the European Union is probably not in its best shape to design and implement strategic, long-term decisions toward Eastern partners. That's why I would like to say if you see any sense, and any chance for a regional integration for creation of a kind of South Caucasian, Benelux? And if yes, if you see and expect to see reaction in Tbilisi and especially in Yerevan.

President Ilham Aliyev: Thank you very much. I think what you say is absolutely realistic. And thank you for your words with respect to our victory. I remember our meeting in Shusha. So, thank you for coming back. I think it's absolutely realistic. And actually, that was also part of our discussions with my Georgian colleague, Prime Minister Garibashvili. There is a chance now for the Southern Caucasus to start the process of at least consultation. Maybe, it's early to talk about integration, but we should start from consultations. I think the first consultations took place in Georgia just recently on the sidelines of one international event. Prime ministers of the three Southern Caucasian countries - Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia - met there. So, that's a positive sign. I think there can be very practical impacts of this cooperation, because only if you look at the development of Georgia and Azerbaijan during the last years, thirty years of independence, you will see how two countries are integrated, how two countries are implementing common projects of mutual benefit, and how these two countries became together much more important for Europe rather than if they were not together. Can Armenia join these already existing projects? Yes, when we sign peace agreement, definitely. What Armenia can contribute to this cooperation? This is so fun and open question, because they not only need to have rights, but also responsibility. Today Georgia and Azerbaijan already have big assets  oil pipelines, gas pipelines, transportation railroads, now there will be energy cable, trade, also matters related to security.

Recently, in Baku, there was a meeting of defense ministers of Azerbaijan, Turkiye and Georgia. This is traditional. We have trilateral cooperation not only in defense, but also in economy, in other areas.

Will Armenia demonstrate its willingness to be a good neighbor and to be supportive? Again, it's an open question. I think if they think strategically, that's the only way for Armenia to preserve its sovereignty. Because what is happening now, as we observed from Baku, in the Armenian government is chaotic shifts from one pole to another. They think that another pole will be a kind of salvation for them. No, it will be just another big brother. Nothing more than that, and whether this big brother will be better than the previous one, I frankly doubt. Because it is very far away. It is not very strongly committed to the region, and from all points of view, pursues its own political or maybe personal ambitious ideas. So, Armenia needs to demonstrate its willingness in order to be part of that integration.

As I said, peace agreement is, of course, the main pre-requisite, but not the only one. They need to demonstrate that we now consider each other as partners. This is possible. In the meantime, the process of reconciliation should go. There must be more contacts between intellectuals, between people who can influence public opinion. There must be less demonstration of hatred. Because when we sent our team to participate in the sporting event in Yerevan, the Azerbaijani flag was burned in front of Prime Minister Pashinyan. So, what kind of message do they send? And that immediately was a big step back from our plans and, maybe, their plans also.

But these things are very sensitive, they are emotional, but also very illustrative. So, can we feel ourselves, I mean, both safe visiting each other? It's still a big question, but potential is here. I know that the Georgian government completely shares this view. We still did not have a very clear demonstration of position from Armenia. But, if it happens, we can start. And they will feel themselves much more on the safe side. Our Georgian friends here - they know that today Georgia's energy security is absolutely on the safe side. No matter what happens between big players, no matter what is the weather, because it is a reliable source of supply. We know that for Azerbaijan, the reliable transit route is through Georgia. So, this is interconnection, this is, if you can use the word, interdependence, which is good, which strengthens the friendship. So, can there be the projects related to power generation, natural gas, fuel, transit, opening of transportation? But for three years, Armenia was blocking the opening of the Zangezur corridor. It was not us. Turkiye was actively promoting. Azerbaijan was promoting, many other countries. But they were blocking. So, I think they need to rethink the situation. And also they need to understand that no matter how strong your big brother is, you live here among these countries. You will have to find your place.

Juan Battaleme, The Argentine Council for International Relations: Thank you, Your Excellency, I`m Battaleme from Argentina, the Argentine Council for International Relations. Allow me to join my colleagues in thanking you for your country's hospitality. My question is quite simple. How difficult was and how long it took you to prepare a military able to reestablish territorial integrity? Thank you.

President Ilham Aliyev: Well, its a topic for another conference. Question is short, but answer cannot be. It can be either very short or very long, I dont know. Now, we already ran out of our time.

But yes, it was a long time of preparation. Economic first, we needed to have self-sufficient economy and not to depend on any other country. Political independence. Decisions should have been taken in Baku, not in other capitals as sometimes happens in some countries. Consolidation of society. Young generation should be raised in the patriotic spirit. A lot in preparation was done in the families, I would say, number one of the patriotic mood was created in the families and not only in the families of former refugees, because in all the families and also at schools. So, these are the main factors. Weapons, technology, yes, very important in order to minimize the losses. They can help you to minimize the losses and the fact that we - the country - the side, which was climbing the mountains had two times at least less losses during the Second Karabakh War than Armenia, who was trying to protect sitting on the hills and with the six lines of defense is because of the sophisticated weapons. But also the number one is a training of military servicemen and their spirit. So, those who have visited Shusha probably have seen what kind of cliffs we had to climb with just light weapons in order to liberate Shusha.

So, it took a lot of time, but without these factors, and, of course, consolidation of all the society around this national idea, the Victory wouldn't have been possible. So, I tried to be as short as possible, maybe next time we will dedicate the conference to that, I will speak for hours. Thank you.

Brice Lalonde, the environmental activist and politician (France): Mr. President, thank you for your gracious invitation. I am from one of these European beautiful countries, I think, I have some messages to convey back home.

President Ilham Aliyev: Why you are sitting then? I understand why are you sitting in the second row.

Brice Lalonde: Nobody is perfect as you know, Mr. President, but it's true. Misconceptions, misunderstandings. So how can we dissipate this misunderstandings? That's one of our main questions. Right now, at this moment. There's a huge climate conference in Dubai. These climate conferences bring 70,000 people, especially young people interested in the future. Next year, we don't know where this conference will happen, but it could happen here. You have a lot to say, Mr. President, you talked about hydrogen, you talked about renewables. You've built a big solar power plant south of Baku. In my view, it would be a good idea also because gas producing countries have a lot to do to help countries to replace coal, for instance. So in my view, this is my question. Would it be a good idea to organize a climate conference in Baku as soon as possible?

President Ilham Aliyev: Thank you very much. I think it will be a great idea and we are working on that. Don't want to ran before the train, but I hope soon we may have good news you know that Azerbaijan is bidding for COP29, and there are certain problems in getting the conference to Baku. Hopefully, very soon we can find a good resolution to this problem. And that will be another important step towards peace, which we were just talking about. Azerbaijan is ready to host COP29. We have a lot to report. When the Soviet Union collapsed, we got absolutely destroyed oil and gas infrastructure. There was great decline in oil production. The territories around Baku were looking like ecological catastrophe. Now it's very difficult to imagine, when you look at the Olympic Stadium, what was before there. If you look at our water sports center, there were oil lakes, and we had to spend a lot of money to clean. So, we demonstrate that we not only produce, but we also clean the area. Still, a lot is to be done, but this is, I think, a good indicator of responsibility.

Despite having 2.6 trillion of natural gas deposits with existing pipelines and with oil deposits, fully provided energy security, the fact that we invest in renewables is also a sign of our responsibility, which will have a very big practical impact. I already said, if we reduce the consumption of natural gas to produce electricity 50% only due to renewables, we will send another 2.5-3 billion cubic meters of gas to Europe, which needs it. So, it will be a win-win situation. And the next COP is due next year. So, if that last obstacle is already lifted, then we'll have a good conference at ADA University devoted to particularly this issue.

Valentina Chabert, the representative of the Sapienza University of Rome: Thank you very much, Mr. President. It is an honor meeting you here after our meeting in Shusha. My question concerns environmental damages in Karabakh, which are one of the collateral effects of thirty years of occupation. And after the liberation of the whole territory last September, how is the environmental condition of the formerly occupied territories? And do you have any plans to legally assess the international responsibility of Armenia and of private companies that committed environmental harm during occupation? Thank you.

President Ilham Aliyev: With respect to the companies, which had illegal activity in the occupied territories, the legal procedure have already started right after the end of the Second Karabakh War. Particularly, with respect to the companies, which were involved in mining, in producing of gold and other precious metals. You know that this legal process takes time. But already almost for three years, we are in the active phase working with different law firms in order to bring to justice those who illegally excavated our natural resources. Now the situation in the newly liberated territories is in the process of assessment. There is a special team consisting of representatives of different governmental bodies, which now continue monitoring village by village, side by side evaluate what has been done, including the ecological damage. I do not expect much of ecological damage on this territory, which was liberated in September, because that territory was mainly inhabited by Armenian population.

They created damage basically in the territories, where there was Azerbaijani population. Basically, the biggest damage was made to the forests of Kalbajar, Lachin and Zangilan. More than 60,000 hectares of trees have been cut. And this is the analysis based on the satellite images - before and after - and also on our physical monitoring. Of course, big concern is with respect to the transboundary rivers pollution  particularly the river, which goes through Zangilan, Okhcuchay. And sometimes the color of the river becomes yellow and this is really an ecological disaster. So, the main concern now is still to assess properly the ecological damage in the territories, which were liberated in 2020. Now, in these newly liberated territories, concentration is mainly on proper assessment of property and also illegal entrepreneurship. Because with respect to that, it was not only local separatist leaders who owned those factories, but also representatives of Armenian diaspora in different countries. So, they must be brought to justice. Though it is a long process, but we are going after them.

Jean de Brabander, the advisor of the Brussels Diplomatic Academy: Your Excellency, first of all, I would like to join my preceding speakers in congratulating you about the evolution in Karabakh. As Mister Lalonde comes from a beautiful country, I come from a beautiful capital in Europe, as advisor of the Brussels Diplomatic Academy. My question is more regarding a topic that has already been raised, already been answered partially regarding the Middle Corridor. I started looking at the region after reading a book from Peter Frankopan. And I immediately acknowledged the importance of the region, especially the Caspian basin. But I never expected that the Middle Corridor would be of such a big importance. Now my question is more, lets say, narrowed down than to what has already been discussed. My question is, when it comes to maritime activities, are there already initiatives to enforce capacity and training personnel for the triangular connection between Aktau, Baku and Turkmenbashi. And next to that question, the country of Turkmenistan hasn't been raised yet. So, how do you see a possible connection with Turkmenistan?

President Ilham Aliyev: Azerbaijan is now providing the transit service for countries of Central Asia, primarily Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. Most of the transit from the Eastern Caspian comes from these two countries, and also from other countries of the Central Asia, and also partly from China. Oil from Turkmenistan already for many years has been transported by our tankers, and is put into Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline. Oil from Kazakhstan started this year, though still in modest quantities. The agreement was signed for 1.5 million tons of oil. It is also brought here, and put into the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan. So, its a very good project, which actually allows to fill the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan to larger capacity than it used to be. And for our partners across the Caspian, it's an opportunity also to diversify the supply routes, which is absolutely understandable. We are now in the process of evaluation of the potential of expanding of our shipyard, and it is very optimistic information. Now, our shipyard can produce all types of vessels. But just for comparison, if we talk about tankers of 12,000 tons capacity, six tankers of this capacity can be produced per year now. Now upgrade of shipyard will allow us to produce from 10 to 15 tankers. Just for better understanding, not all of them will be tankers, there will be dry cargo vessels, there will ferry boats. This is a reflection of importance of the Middle Corridor. This is a reflection of our perception of the potential cargo, because definitely the cargo volumes through Trans Caspian route will grow. For that purpose, we are now already in the face of expansion of our trade seaport from existing capacity of 15 million tons to 25 million tons, which we did not plan actually. Because we didn't have even 15 million tons, but we will have, including 1 million TEU. So, this is our contribution to the Middle Corridor for the coming 2-3 years. In the meantime, we also initiated the multilateral meeting of corresponding officials from transportation units of Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Kazakhstan, and Georgia, created already format of cooperation, as I said, working on tariffs, and digitalization and also our own customs administration. Because a lot of time is lost on the customs, because time is one of our main attractions. If we have a more unification or more coordination between the customs of all the countries, then it will be much faster. Plus, as I already said, the physical expansion of railroad capacity. All that is being done in the Azerbaijani territory, and we actually completed that. In the meantime, we're working actively on the North-South Transportation Corridor, which also crosses Azerbaijan, and which is totally completed in our territories. Now, only we need to upgrade the capacity of the North-South the same, as we did with the railroad from Baku to Georgian border. We need to do the same from our border with Russia to our border with Iran. So, upgrade, but physically the railroad exists. And this also can be part of the Middle Corridor, because it's also corridor like the South-West from Persian Gulf to Azerbaijan and then to Georgia. It can be from the north, from Russia. By the way, it is already used by several Russian companies, the routes from Azerbaijan to Georgia and Europe. So, a lot of potential. One of the positive factors is a good level of relationship between all the countries involved - Central Asia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkiye. This is an important factor and common benefit, shared benefit. But of course, just one more comment that the recent geopolitical situation, the recent changes in transportation facilities, of course, contributed largely to the importance of the corridor through the Caspian.

Hikmat Hajiyev: Ilayda Nijhar.

Ilayda Nijhar, the representative of the Overseas Development Institute (UK): Thank you very much. I'm from the Overseas Development Institute based in London. Firstly, just to echo some of the comments made by my other fellow participants, it was a great opportunity yesterday to be in Zangilan after the trip to Shusha and to have the opportunity to meet with your representatives there. I'd be interested to know how does Azerbaijan's focus on technical innovations, especially in secto
Farah Khan at Golden Temple News: See Pics

Farah Khan, Accompanied by Filmmaker Mukesh Chhabra, Embarks on a Spiritual Journey to Amritsar

Farah Khan at Golden Temple News: Bollywood Renowned Director Farah Khan embarked on a soulful sojourn to Amritsar, where she paid obeisance at the Golden Temple (Sri Darbar Sahib). The celebrated film director, accompanied by filmmaker Mukesh Chhabra, experienced a serene and spiritually uplifting visit to the Harmandir Sahib, expressing profound contentment.

Commencing her Amritsar expedition on a delectable note, Farah Khan savored the local culinary delights, indulging in the city's famous chhole bhature and lassi. Sharing a glimpse of her experience on social media, she humorously remarked, "I bet you can't drink this lassi. You have to eat it. How will you function after a hearty meal?"

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During her visit to Sri Harmandir Sahib, Farah Khan attentively absorbed every detail provided, expressing her satisfaction with the insightful information shared. She revealed, "I had been planning to come here for a long time but couldn't due to time constraints. Now, with Mukesh Chhabra's assistance, our dream has come true. I have found so much peace here and wish to make this an annual pilgrimage."

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Farah Khan, known for her artistic endeavors in the Indian film industry, concluded her visit with heartfelt prayers and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with the spiritual essence of Sri Darbar Sahib. As she bids adieu to Amritsar, the director looks forward to future visits, inspired by the tranquility and cultural richness that the holy city has bestowed upon her.

(For More News Apart from Farah Khan at Golden Temple News Latest, Stay Tuned to Rozana Spokesman)

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ISRO Chandrayaan-4 Latest News

Chandrayaan-3 Successful Return Boosts ISRO's Confidence for Upcoming Lunar Mission

ISRO Chandrayaan-4 Latest News: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for a significant leap in lunar exploration with the upcoming Chandrayaan-4 mission, focused on bringing back samples from the Moon. Following the recent success of Chandrayaan-3's propulsion module's return to Earth orbit, ISRO Chairman S Somanath outlined the plans for the ambitious lunar endeavor.

While demonstrating the capability to reignite engines on the lunar surface and return a spacecraft to Earth orbit, ISRO acknowledges the need to showcase the docking of systems before venturing into the complex task of lunar sample return. The Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) has been identified as a crucial milestone for this mission, aiming to provide essential data on space rendezvous technology.

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ISRO Chairman S Somanath explained, "The sample return mission is much more complex, involving maneuvers such as collecting samples, placing them in a canister, returning the unit to the Moon's orbit, and docking with a spacecraft that will return to Earth's orbit. SPADEX will be vital not only for lunar sample return but also for advancements in space rendezvous technology critical for future space stations and human space exploration."

SPADEX is slated for the end of 2024, with preparations underway for the satellite launch that will facilitate this significant experiment. The success of SPADEX will mark a significant milestone for ISRO's lunar exploration ambitions.

Regarding the progress of Chandrayaan-4, Somanath revealed, "We've identified a team, reviewed the initial project and overall architecture. Now, system-by-system review, technology review, and departmental review are underway."

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ISRO is also collaborating with Japan on the Lunar Polar Exploration (LUPEX) mission, aimed at confirming the presence of water in the moon's polar regions. While both Chandrayaan-4 and LUPEX are in the approval process, Somanath refrained from predicting which mission would take precedence.

The recent return of Chandrayaan-3's propulsion module, with a 44-day journey involving intricate maneuvers, has injected momentum into ISRO's lunar aspirations. The propulsion module, currently orbiting Earth, will continue its mission using the SHAPE (Spectro-polarimetry of HAbitable Planet Earth) payload, studying habitable planet-like features of Earth whenever visible to the module. As ISRO progresses, these achievements pave the way for India's advancements in lunar exploration and space technology.

(For More News Apart from ISRO Chandrayaan-4 Latest News, Fact Check, Stay Tuned to Rozana Spokesman)


Madhya Pradesh 2023 Elections: Fact Check Report

Spokesman in his investigation found the viral post to be misleading

Madhya Pradesh 2023 Elections: After registering a resounding victory in Madhya Pradesh 2023 elections, the BJP has made it clear that the spirit of the Modi government is still there. Amid this, a claim regarding the defeat of Aam Aadmi Party leader Chahat Pandey in this election is going viral on social media. According to the claim, Aam Aadmi Party leader from Damoh, Madhya Pradesh, TV actor Chahat Pandey got only 89 votes while Chahat's Instagram account followers are more than 12 lakh.

Facebook user "Kuldeep Singh" claims that Aam Aadmi Party leader from Damoh, Madhya Pradesh, TV actor Chahat Pandey got only 89 votes while Chahat's Instagram account followers are more than 12 lakh.

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Spokesman in his investigation found the viral post to be misleading. Chahat Pandey got 2292 votes in total.

Spokesman's Investigation

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Starting the investigation, we first visited the website of the Election Commission. According to the information available on the Election Commission's site, Chahat Pandey has received a total of 2292 votes. Below can be seen the screenshot of Chahat Pandey's received vote count in this election.

Chahat Pandey Results

Aajtak's news about the defeat of Chahat Pandey and the number of votes she got can be read by clicking Here.

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Conclusion- Spokesman in his investigation found the viral post to be misleading. Chahat Pandey got 2292 votes in total.

(For More News Apart from Madhya Pradesh 2023 Elections News, Fact Check, Stay Tuned to Rozana Spokesman)


Gurjeet Aujla News

Congress MP Highlights Urgent Need for Protocol as Chikungunya-Like Fever Grips Amritsar, Affecting Thousands

Gurjeet Aujla News: Gurjeet Singh Aujla, the Congress Member of Parliament from Amritsar, has drawn attention to the prolonged health crisis in his constituency during the ongoing winter session of Parliament. Auijla addressed the urgent need for a treatment protocol for a fever resembling Chikungunya that has persisted for six months in the Cheharta area. Despite negative Chikungunya test results, the community continues to suffer, with symptoms unabated.

Aujla expressed concern over the absence of a cure for this mysterious fever, leading to severe weakness and, in some cases, fatalities, particularly among the younger population. Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, he revealed that approximately two and a half lakh families in the constituency are grappling with the impact on their livelihoods, causing distress among the economically disadvantaged.

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The MP pointed out that some medical professionals suspect a potential link to COVID-19, adding to the urgency of addressing the issue. Aujla lamented the lack of attention from the state government despite six months of persistent health concerns and submitted multiple letters seeking intervention.

Seeking immediate action, Gurjeet Aujla urged the government to form a specialized team to investigate the root causes and extent of the disease's spread. The health crisis has not only affected the well-being of the community but has also raised questions about the responsiveness of the state authorities to the health and welfare of its citizens.

(For More News Apart from Gurjeet Aujla News, Stay Tuned to Rozana Spokesman)


Gym Trainer Ludhiana News

In a Disturbing Incident at Ludhiana's Shimlapuri, Gym Trainer Kuldeep Singh Kohli Falls Victim to Gunfire

Gym Trainer Ludhiana News: A Shocking incident unfolded in Ludhiana's Shimlapuri area as bullets pierced the night, targeting a gym trainer identified as Kuldeep Singh Kohli. The assailants, riding on bikes, confronted Kohli and his friend near the Lohara bridge, firing multiple shots that left him injured.

Kuldeep Singh Kohli, a resident of Mandeep Nagar, narrated the harrowing encounter, stating that he was returning home in his car with a friend around 10 pm on Tuesday night, shortly after closing his gym located near Gill Canal. The assailants, two youths on bikes, ambushed them near Lohara bridge, initiating the sudden attack.

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As Kohli stepped out to inquire about the motive behind the assault, the attackers opened fire, forcing him to take cover inside the car. Despite his efforts to shield himself, one bullet found its mark, striking him in the leg. The attackers, swiftly fleeing the scene, left Kohli injured and bleeding.

The victim recounted the intensity of the attack, revealing that approximately 5 to 6 bullets were discharged during the incident. Initially, unaware of the gunshot, Kohli discovered the severity of his injuries only after the attackers made a hasty escape. His friend promptly rushed him to the hospital, where doctors notified the Shimlapuri police about the incident.

Kuldeep Singh Kohli, still recovering from the trauma, speculated that the attack stemmed from an old grudge, though he remains unfamiliar with the assailants. The Shimlapuri police have initiated an investigation into the matter, aiming to apprehend the culprits responsible for the brazen act of violence.

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(For More News Apart from Gym Trainer Ludhiana News Latest, Stay Tuned to Rozana Spokesman)




Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi Murder Case Latest Update

Chief of Sri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena Succumbs to Fatal Shooting; Two Arrested as Rajput Community Protests, Demands Justice

Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi Murder Case Latest Update: The Assassination of Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, the national president of Sri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, has sent shockwaves through Rajasthan, leading to widespread protests and a state-wide shutdown. The two accused responsible for the fatal shooting have been apprehended in Haryana, identified as Rohit Rathore from Nagaur, Rajasthan, and Nitin Fauji from Mahindergarh, Haryana. The incident has fueled outrage among the Rajput community, prompting calls for a Rajasthan Bandh in protest.

The tragic incident unfolded on Tuesday when two assailants entered Gogamedi's residence in Jaipur, firing approximately 15 rounds and fatally wounding him. The gunmen also injured Gogamedi's security personnel, Ajit Singh, and claimed the life of Naveen Kumar, who had accompanied the miscreants to Gogamedi's house.

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The motive behind the assassination points to a premeditated conspiracy, with reports revealing a prior alert from the Punjab Police to the Rajasthan Police about a potential plot to harm Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi while he was in Bathinda Jail.

Rohit Godara, associated with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, has claimed responsibility for the murder in a social media post, citing Gogamedi's alleged support for the gang's adversaries as the motive. The Director General of Police (DGP) Umesh Mishra stated that the assailants entered Gogamedi's residence under the guise of a conversation before opening fire. The police are currently conducting raids in nearby districts and Bikaner Division to apprehend individuals associated with the Rohit Godara gang.

The tragic incident has ignited widespread protests across Jaipur, Jodhpur, Alwar, Churu, and Udaipur, with supporters demanding swift justice and the immediate arrest of the culprits. The supporters have declared a Jaipur bandh and issued warnings of a state-level strike.

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Governor Kalraj Mishra, responding to the heinous crime, has directed the police to take strict and effective action against the criminals, emphasizing the need to uphold law and order in the state. Both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress have expressed sorrow over Gogamedi's brutal murder, with BJP state president CP Joshi emphasizing the urgency of arresting those spreading chaos.

Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi had previously sought a ticket from the Congress for the upcoming 2023 assembly elections but was denied, leading to a rift. In November, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot wrote to Gogamedi, expressing support for the official candidate announced by the party. As investigations continue, the state remains on high alert, grappling with the aftermath of the targeted assassination that has left the Rajput community mourning and demanding justice.

(For More News Apart from Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi Murder Case News, Stay Tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Factory orders and construction Purchasing Managers' survey results from Germany are the top economic news due on Wednesday.

At 2.00 am ET, Destatis publishes Germany's factory new orders data for October. Economists forecast orders to grow 0.2 percent on month, the same pace of growth as seen in September.

Half an hour later, industrial production and retail sales figures are due from Hungary.

At 3.00 am ET, the Czech Statistical Office releases retail sales for October. Sales had declined 0.4 percent on month in September.

At 3.30 am ET, S&P Global is scheduled to release Germany's construction PMI data for November.

At 4.30 am ET, UK S&P/CIPS construction PMI is due. The index is seen at 46.3 in November, up from 45.6 in October.

At 5.00 am ET, Eurostat releases euro area retail sales for October. Sales are forecast to grow 0.2 percent on month, in contrast to the 0.3 percent fall in September.

At 5.30 am ET, the Bank of England publishes the Financial Stability Report.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
As opposed to significant exterior changes with Kia EV6 facelift, interiors might be carried over or see minimal changes

In the push towards electric cars, Kia and Hyundai have been very active by launching multiple global vehicles and market-specific vehicles. First among the global electric vehicles from Kia was EV6 which is getting a mid-life facelift soon. Test mules have been spotted abroad and feature a radical new fascia influenced by its flagship EV9.

Kia EV6 Facelift Spotted Testing Again

The South Korean brands first EV for India is among the 28 electric cars that money can buy in India. It has been garnering good sales numbers too, where CBU vehicles are concerned. Even though EV6 is relatively new, Kia is keen on giving it a facelift that should eventually make its way to India as well.

Just like the Carnival facelift recently unveiled, Kia EV6 facelift is inspired by the companys flagship EV9 electric SUV. At front, we can see a heavily redesigned fascia. Kia has thoroughly camouflaged EV6 facelift test mule at the front, side and rear areas. Usually, camouflaged areas are the ones that will bear design changes.

Going by that logic, we could witness a heavily reworked fascia, slightly different sheet metal stamping in profile and minimal changes with rear section. For starters, the headlights are now vertically arranged like on EV9 electric SUV, as opposed to horizontal arrangement on current model.

There seems to be a new alloy wheel design along with slightly different lines and creases in profile. Rear gets new LED signature in its tail lights. However, overall tail light design aesthetic seems to have been retained from current model. Front and rear bumpers will see a revision too, bringing more aggression and flair to its design.

Changes in powertrains?

On the inside, we dont expect much difference over what Kia is offering with current EV6 on sale globally. Thats not a bad thing as it has twin 12.3-inch horizontal displays, one for infotainment and other for instrumentation. Two-spoke steering wheel, physical switches and dials for crucial elements are notable aspects with Kia EV6 interiors.

Where powertrains are concerned, Kia is offering two versions of EV6 in India  RWD and AWD. Both of them get the same 77.4 kWh battery pack. Single motor RWD version boasts 226 bhp and 350 Nm, whereas dual motor AWD version packs 321 bhp and 605 Nm. Both these versions are based on GT Line trim.

We hope Kia India launches the maxed-out EV6 GT with facelifted model. This GT version gets 575 bhp and 740 Nm with eye-watering 0-100 km/h time of around 3.6 seconds. India launch could happen in 2025. Official confirmation regarding the same is due.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 5. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyevs address to the participants of the international conference themed Decolonization: Womens Empowerment and Development held in Baku on November 21, has been circulated as an official document of the UN General Assembly and the Security Council.

It is gratifying that more than 40 representatives from 18 countries representing different continents are gathered in Baku again to condemn the policy of colonialism, which unfortunately continues in the 21st century, and convey facts about the situation of women in the territories under colonial rule to the international community, and carry out systematic and consistent work towards the elimination of colonialism.

Historically, the respect for women in Azerbaijan and the holding of women in high esteem have been one of the highest moral qualities of the Azerbaijani people. Azerbaijani women have contributed to resolving fateful issues in all periods of our history, to the freedom struggle of our people, and to the liberation of our lands from occupation by the Republic of Armenia, President Ilham Aliyev said in his address.

As chair of the Non-Aligned Movement, the Republic of Azerbaijan has always attached great importance to issues relevant to humanity and carried out effective work towards eliminating the injustices faced by peoples worldwide. In this regard, our time demands to bring the issues of women and colonialism together and amplify the role of women in the decolonization process. Regrettably, in the 21st century, women are still being subjected to slavery and exploitation in colonies, meaning that they are deprived of fundamental human rights.

Most of the bloody crimes in the colonial history of humanity have been committed by France. France, which occupied dozens of countries in Africa, South-East Asia, the Pacific Ocean, the Atlantic and the Indian Ocean, and Latin America, plundered their wealth and enslaved their people for many years, committing numerous war crimes and crimes against humanity. The French armed forces discriminated against their ethnic and religious affiliation and subjected hundreds of thousands of civilians to genocide. The slave trade, which France was actively engaged in, is one of the most shameful pages of humanity. Millions of Africans fell victim to the French slavery policy.

As chair of the Non-Aligned Movement, I have repeatedly provided listed facts of numerous crimes against humanity and atrocities committed by France in the occupied countries. Millions of innocent people in Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Mali, Djibouti, Nigeria, Chad, Senegal, Benin, Cote d'Ivoire, Central African Republic, Gabon, Togo, Cameroon, Vietnam, the Union of the Comoros, Haiti, and other countries, including women and children, were killed by France. France is also responsible for the massacre of more than 800,000 members of the Tutsi tribe in Rwanda in 1994, the head of state noted.

Centuries have passed, but the new shameful methods of French colonialism continue to this day because policies and mindsets have not changed. The peoples of the overseas territories gathered at this conference have been fighting for independence for many years. Unable to abandon the history of colonialism, France does not respect the freedom, aspirations, and rights of the peoples living in overseas communities and territories outside of Europe, in the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic oceans, and works hard to undermine the realization of those aspirations. Also, it continues to make gross interventions in the internal affairs of its former colonies on the African continent, which is an obstacle to achieving stability. The views expressed by politicians from overseas regions about French colonialism are truly terrifying.

As chair of the Non-Aligned Movement, Azerbaijan supports the peoples fighting against colonialism and aiming to be free. Your participation at the Ministerial Meeting held in Baku as part of Azerbaijan's chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement on July 6 and October 20, 2023, at the headquarters of the UN General Assembly in New York on September 22, and at this event in Baku dedicated to colonialism, its consequences and neocolonialism, which are of particular relevance to humanity, are evidence of Azerbaijan's support for this issue as chair of the Non-Aligned Movement, the Azerbaijani President emphasized.
The most impressive part of Suzuki Motor Gujarats achievement is that the last 1 million units were pushed out of production line in 17 months

It is common knowledge that Maruti Suzuki is the undisputed champion of 4-wheel vehicles in India. The company has multiple manufacturing facilities under its name. One of them is Suzuki Motor Gujarat, which recently achieved a milestone of cumulatively manufacturing 3 million vehicles.

Suzuki Motor Gujarat 3 Million Cumulative Production

There are three plants at Suzuki Motor Gujarat  Plant A, Plant B and Plant C. Plant A commenced operations in February 2017, Plant B in January 2019 and Plant C in April 2021. Suzuki Motor Gujarat caters to both domestic market as well as export markets. With export operations commencing in March 2018.

Located in Hansalpur, Gujarat, Suzuki Motor Gujarat (SMG) currently has 7,50,000 units production capacity annually. As of 1st April 2023, 3,200 employees were working in these plants, producing vehicles like Baleno, Swift, Tour S, Dzire, Fronx and other OEM vehicles.

SMG used to be under the umbrella of Suzuki Motor Company, Japan (SMC). Recently, Maruti Suzuki board of directors greenlighted the acquisition of SMG from SMC. Now, SMG is a wholly owned subsidiary of Maruti Suzuki.

Production milestones

Suzuki Motor Gujarat has demonstrated some impressive milestones ever since Plant A went operational in February 2017. SMG clocked 3 million units in a matter of 6 years and 11 months. With demand increasing, production increased proportionally.

We can see this pattern with SMG too. The last million units were manufactured in a matter of just 17 months. If we look at the production numbers breakup, SMG reached 1 million milestone in 3 years and 9 months. 2 million milestone came up in 5 years and 7 months. Lastly, 3 million milestone came up in 6 years and 11 months.

Words from the manufacturer

Mr. Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited said, We are delighted to reach the 3 million cumulative production milestone in Gujarat. This has been possible because of a supportive ecosystem provided for manufacturing activities in the state.

We thank our supplier partners who have invested and collaborated to ramp up production at the facility. I express my gratitude to all the employees of Suzuki Motor Gujarat, whose contribution has been instrumental to achieve this landmark.

He further added, With the acquisition of Suzuki Motor Gujarat, we are further enhancing our production flexibility. The production of our battery electric vehicles will also be undertaken at the Gujarat plant and is expected to start in FY 2024-25.

At present, the facility manufactures some of the popular models like Swift, Baleno, Dzire and Fronx. Aligned to the Governments Make-in-India vision, 50 per cent of the vehicles manufactured at SMG in FY 2022-23, were exported to global markets.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Finland Sauli Niinisto, Trend reports.

"Dear Mr. President,

I sincerely congratulate you and your people on my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the National Holiday of the Republic of Finland  the Independence Day.

On this festive day, I wish you robust health, success in your endeavors, and your people everlasting peace and prosperity," the letter reads.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. We really try to do maximum in order to create most comfortable conditions for former refugees. They deserve it, because they lived in difficult conditions for 30 years. It was not only physical conditions, but also psychological situation of people who were deprived from their homes for 30 years, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations, Trend reports.

Now, when we liberated the territories, we do everything in order to speed up the process with full understanding about the dangers, as you mentioned, the mines is a major danger. At the same time, we want to do everything properly. We want the process to be as fast as possible, but with understanding that it must be done using the best architectural experience, the best technology, including green technology, and the best conditions for living, the head of state noted.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. We still hoped that we can establish contacts with the representatives of Karabakh Armenians, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations, Trend reports.

"At the meeting with people who returned to Lachin - former refuges - I expressed my position on the situation and said that there is an opportunity to find a normal solution to this issue. I also said that the leaders of separatists have a chance for amnesty if they surrender. That was a public statement. But unfortunately again, my words were not properly assessed. So now, the leaders of separatists are in Azerbaijan. They wanted to come here and threatened us that they would come on tanks. But now, they are waiting for the Azerbaijani justice to say its word.

We still hoped that we can establish contacts with the representatives of Karabakh Armenians. Unfortunately, those people there who monopolized the so-called power did not allow that to happen. Moreover, in September, there were two events, which actually were considered by us as crossing over the last red lines. First, the congratulation from the Armenian Prime Minister to the so-called Nagorno-Karabakh Republic with respect to its so-called independence, which was totally in contradiction with what the Armenian Prime Minister said and signed. Because October last year was the time when the Armenian Prime Minister officially recognized Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan. After that, after many statements in the same direction, sending a congratulation letter to separatists is absolutely unacceptable, and is very contradictory," the head of state underlined.
Scientists from Anhui Normal University and elsewhere have identified a new species of the hedgehog genus Mesechinus living the scrubland and subtropical forests of eastern China.

Mesechinus is a small genus of mammals in the hedgehog family Erinaceidae.

The genus until now comprised four species from East Asia: Mesechinus dauuricus, Mesechinus hughi, Mesechinus miodon, and Mesechinus wangi.

Except for Mesechinus wangi, which is found in southwestern China, the other three species are mainly distributed in northern China and adjacent Mongolia and Siberia.

For a long time, the genus Mesechinus was thought to be restricted to northern China and adjacent Mongolia and Siberia until scientists reported in 2007 a small population of Mesechinus from Mount Gaoligong in Yunnan province, southwestern China, said Anhui Normal University biologist Zhongzheng Chen and his colleagues.

This Mount Gaoligong population was subsequently described as a new species, Mesechinus wangi.

In the new study, we recognized a population of Mesechinus from eastern China as another isolated species, Mesechinus orientalis.

Mesechinus orientalis is a small-bodied hedgehog, similar to Mesechinus hughi, but smaller than other Mesechinus species.

It has the shortest spines in the genus (1.8-2 cm). There are four color rings on the spine from the base to the tip: two-thirds of the length is white at the base, followed by a 3-4 mm black ring, a narrow light ring, and a black tip.

The nose is brown, with black whiskers on the snout; these whiskers shorten towards the nose. The ears are small and nearly the same length as the surrounding spines.

Mesechinus orientalis appears to be sexually dimorphic. The pelage of males is generally gray, while that of most of the females is reddish brown.

The new species is currently known from southern Anhui and northwestern Zhejiang, both in eastern China.

It can be found in scrubland and subtropical broad-leaf evergreen forests at elevations from 30 to 700 m.

The new species is geographically isolated from its congeners by at least 1,000 km, and it is currently the southeasternmost species of Mesechinus, the researchers said.

Mesechinus orientalis is a sister to the lineage composed of Mesechinus hughi and Mesechinus wangi from which it diverged approximately 1.1 million years ago.

The discovery of a new species of Mesechinus in eastern China has greatly expanded the known range of the genus and is vital in understanding the macroevolution of the genus, the authors said.

The oldest fossils of Mesechinus are from the Early Pleistocene near Taijiaping village in Nangaoya Township in Shanxi province.

Our molecular results reveal that the divergences among Mesechinus orientalis, Mesechinus wangi, and Mesechinus hughi occurred in the Middle Pleistocene 0.74-1.1 million years ago.

Increased cooling and aridification during the Middle Pleistocene (known as the Middle Pleistocene transition at 1.2-0.5 million years ago) appear to have been critically important in the split of the three species, which may also have facilitated the migration of the ancestors of Mesechinus wangi and Mesechinus orientalis to southwestern and southeastern China, respectively.

The north-south trending Dabie Mountains, which are located between the Qinling Mountains and southern Anhui, may have provided a migration route for the ancestor of Mesechinus orientalis to reach southern Anhui.

The mountainous area of southern Anhui and northwestern Zhejiang province also likely acted as glacial refugia in the Pleistocene for the new species.

The discovery of Mesechinus orientalis is described in a paper published in November 2023 in the journal ZooKeys.

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Z. Shi et al. 2023. A new species of forest hedgehog (Mesechinus, Erinaceidae, Eulipotyphla, Mammalia) from eastern China. ZooKeys 1185: 143-161; doi: 10.3897/zookeys.1185.111615
Already 26 million km (16 million miles) from Earth, NASAs Psyche spacecraft will arrive at its target asteroid Psyche in 2029. The Psyche team wanted to test all of the science instruments early in the long journey to make sure they are working as intended, and to ensure there would be plenty of time to calibrate and adjust them as needed. The imager instrument, which consists of a pair of identical cameras, captured a total of 68 images, all within a star field in the constellation of Pisces.

Psyche is a NASA mission to study a metal-rich asteroid with the same name, located in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.

This is NASAs first mission to study an asteroid that has more metal than rock or ice.

The spacecraft launched October 13, 2023, at 10:19 a.m. EDT aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from Kennedy Space Center.

By August 2029, it will begin exploring the asteroid that scientists think  because of its high metal content  may be the partial core of a planetesimal, a building block of an early planet.

The Psyche imager takes pictures through multiple color filters, all of which were tested in these initial observations.

With the filters, the Psyche team will use photographs in wavelengths of light both visible and invisible to the human eye to help determine the composition of the asteroid.

The imager team will also use the data to create 3D maps of the asteroid to better understand its geology, which will give clues about Psyches history.

These initial images are only a curtain-opener, said Psyche imager instrument lead Jim Bell, a researcher at Arizona State University.

For the team that designed and operates this sophisticated instrument, first light is a thrill.

We start checking out the cameras with star images like these, then in 2026 well take test images of Mars during the spacecrafts flyby.

And finally, in 2029 well get our most exciting images yet  of our target asteroid Psyche.

We look forward to sharing all of these visuals with the public.

Earlier in the mission, in October, the Psyche team powered on the magnetometer, which will provide crucial data to help determine how the asteroid formed.

Evidence that the asteroid once had a magnetic field would be a strong indication that the body is a partial core of a planetesimal, a building block of an early planet.

The information could help us better understand how our own planet formed.

On November 8, amid all the work with the science instruments, the team fired up two of the four electric propulsion thrusters, setting a record: the first-ever use of Hall-effect thrusters in deep space.

Until now, theyd been used only on spacecraft going as far as lunar orbit.

By expelling charged atoms, or ions, of xenon gas, the ultra-efficient thrusters will propel the spacecraft to the asteroid and help it maneuver in orbit.

Less than a week later, on November 14, the technology demonstration built into the spacecraft, an experiment called Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC), set its own record.

The experiment achieved first light by sending and receiving optical data from far beyond the Moon.

The instrument beamed a near-infrared laser encoded with test data from nearly 16 million km (10 million miles) away  the farthest-ever demonstration of optical communications.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. One day, in even less than one day, the anti-terror operation totally allowed us to restore our sovereignty. The operation was held without any damage to civilian infrastructure, any casualty among civilians, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations, Trend reports.

We announced that if the army laid down its weapons, we would stop and allow them to leave. So, it lasted less than 24 hours. After they announced that they surrender, all their actions on the ground had stopped. I think, the most important events that happened since our last meeting in May, the head of state emphasized.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. With respect to peace, I think we brought peace. We brought peace by war. I think this is something, which should also be evaluated broader than just a local situation in the Caucasus. How to achieve peace? By military means, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations.

For many years during the times of negotiations and occupation, I heard from the Minsk Group co-chairs  three of them in one voice saying that there is no military solution to the conflict. It happens that they were wrong, all the three.

Despite history of statehood, great international experience, being permanent members of the UN Security Council, they were wrong. I think that either they just were wrong because of the wrong assessment or it was a kind of a message to Azerbaijan that you will not succeed, if you resort to non-peaceful scenario. We proved that there is a military solution to the conflict. So, conflict is resolved. Actually, conflict was resolved three years ago, when we liberated a big part of the occupied territories, the Azerbaijani President noted.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. When the representatives of Armenian community agreed to meet  only after 20 September. After September 20, when we already had to use force in order to restore our sovereignty, the representatives came to Yevlakh. They came twice, not once. The question is why didn't they come before? If they came before, there would have been no need for anti-terror operation. So, this is history, the recent history, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations, Trend reports.

Our electronic portal is functioning. We had already several appeals from the Karabakh Armenians. Some of them prefer to stay there and they live there. We assigned our representatives from the State Migration Agency and the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population to take care of those who cannot provide their own comfort. Because, now it's the area, where you have to be protected by social agency, because you have to eat, you have to have heating, you have to have other means of living. Not many of them, I would say remained. But those who remain, they have been taken care of and those who want to come back, they can use a mechanism, which I already informed you about, the head of state mentioned.
Insight Does Biden benefit if foreign policy dominates the 2024 campaign? By Mark Hannah Los Angeles Times/(TNS) Published Dec. 6, 2023 Embed from Getty Images

Sign up for the daily JWR update. It's free. Just click here.

Conventional wisdom suggests Americans know little about foreign policy and care about it even less. Opinion polls regularly show that international issues take a back seat to topics more prosaic (economics, education) or provocative (culture wars, gun control).

Next year's presidential election, however, might be a bit different. Continued international crises could focus attention on the benefits and burdens of American global leadership, and our polarized politics may turn on battles and events far from home. We might experience the rare phenomenon: a foreign policy election.

Israel's war against Hamas has become a domestic political focal point, either praised as a righteous campaign of self-defense or criticized for bringing humanitarian catastrophe to Gaza. Some experts now believe Ukraine's war aims are "out of reach," and call on Washington to encourage Ukraine to pursue a cease-fire.

One might think a president with Joe Biden's experience would perform well in a foreign policy election. So it's surprising that his approach to the wars in Gaza and Ukraine  an approach he doubled down on in a recent op-ed that touted the U.S. as "the essential nation," worried about Russian leader Vladimir "Putin's drive for conquest" and reduced Hamas' motives to "murderous nihilism"  instead appears to be endangering his reelection.

Hamas' Oct. 7 attacks and the president's nearly unconditional support for Israel's response have brought to a boil the simmering divisions within the Democratic Party on the issue of Palestinians. Many young, diverse and progressive voters are critical of Israel's occupation of the West Bank and the "open-air prison" of Gaza. They believe the Gaza war is unjust and disproportionate.

Fully 70% of U.S. voters under age 35 disapprove of Biden's handling of the war, according to a Nov. 19 NBC News poll. Other polls show that a majority of young voters do not support sending weapons to Israel, and less than half of Gen Z and millennials even want the U.S. to publicly voice support for Israel as the president has so consistently done. The issue could tip the scale in the crucial swing states, such as Michigan, where razor-thin margins of victory are common.

Support for Israel has been uncontroversial for most of Biden's political career. A decade ago, a pro-Israel lobbyist described his work to me as "pushing against an open door." But as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has moved to the right and threatened Israel's democratic institutions, he has infuriated many Israelis and tested the patience of otherwise sympathetic Americans  including many American Jews. Today, Washington's pro-Israel lobby is dominated by evangelical Christians in the Republican Party base, borne by what one commentator called "solidarity with a particularly aggressive strain of Zionism."

Democrats have sweated the electoral consequences of being seen as insufficiently pro-Israel since before it was even a country. In 1947, as the United Nations considered recognizing a Jewish state, President Truman's general counsel, Clark Clifford, penned a private memo to his boss:"Unless the Palestine matter is boldly and favorably handled, there is bound to be some defection on [Jewish voters'] part to the alert [GOP nominee Thomas E.] Dewey." Unlike Truman, Biden has to contend with a voting Middle Eastern diaspora, new human rights norms and mass media capable of relaying round-the-clock images of Palestinian suffering.

Apart from the Israel-Hamas war, a foreign policy election would present Biden with other fresh challenges. In broad terms, independent voters don't seem to share Democrats'  and the president's  expansive view of the purpose of American power.

A survey released in October by the Institute for Global Affairs at the Eurasia Group found that Republicans and independents, when asked what the primary goal of U.S. foreign policy should be, chose "to protect America from foreign threats and stop other countries from taking advantage of the U.S." Democrats, on the other hand, chose "to promote democracy, human rights, and the rule of law across the globe as the leader of the free world."

When House Republicans recently cut Ukraine funding from a plan to keep the government running, they elicited howls from some Democrats about "abandoning" Ukraine. But independents aren't howling. The survey shows that many share Republicans' skepticism of alliances, concern over diminishing weapons stockpiles and desire to withdraw U.S. troops stationed in Europe.

In other words, independents echo the rhetoric of Donald Trump more than that of Joe Biden. The president has lately dialed down his trumpeting of a worldwide "battle between democracy and autocracy." Perhaps his campaign realized this resonated with those inclined to vote for him anyway, and could fail to win over swing voters.

Historically, a foreign policy election benefits the incumbent. During the Cold War, politics were said to stop at the water's edge, as Americans sought to show the world a united front. International crises often generated a "rally 'round the flag" effect for leaders seen as taking decisive action.

However, voters today don't agree on the dangers the U.S. faces, let alone the best way to address them. Republicans' greatest perceived threat  immigration threatens the country's national identity  ranked last among Democrats on our survey. Climate -change-induced natural disasters were seen as the top threat among Democrats, but the second-to-last among Republicans.

Political leaders can usually be forgiven for not heeding the public's foreign policy preferences. Voters can be capricious or ill-informed, and expertise is crucial for foreign policy decision-making. But if foreign crises continue to focus Americans' attention next year, Biden ignores their views at his peril.

(COMMENT, BELOW)

Los Angeles Times

(TNS)

Mark Hannah is a senior fellow at the Institute for Global Affairs at the Eurasia Group.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Azerbaijanis have firmly stated that they will peacefully return to West Azerbaijan, stated Chairman of the Board of the Western Azerbaijan Community, MP Aziz Alakbarli during a hearing in the Parliament on A call from the past to the future: Youth's view of the philosophy of return to Western Azerbaijan, Trend reports.

According to his words, the return will be possible after receiving a full guarantee of the safety of the people returning there.

Alakbarli noted that the rights that the returning Azerbaijanis should also have the rights of citizens of Armenia.

"All conditions should be created in all state structures of Armenia for the participation of our compatriots as full citizens, solutions to social and labor problems, rights to representation in state affairs should be ensured. All this is reflected in our concept," he said.

"We have been able to bring our problems to the world community in a short time. Seven documents of the Western Azerbaijan Community were distributed as an official UN document over the past year," Alakbarli added.

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Education

spotlight

Free COVID tests coming to SFUSD ahead of possible winter surge

Girts Ragelis/Shutterstock Free COVID-19 test kits are coming to public schools, courtesy of the federal government.

The White House is distributing free COVID-19 tests to public schools in an effort to get ahead of a possible winter surge.

Flu season and increased holiday travel make health experts cautious, but UCSF epidemiologist Dr. Peter Chin-Hong says cases remain manageable.

Theres certainly some parts of the country where (COVID cases are) going up. But I would say its not a generalized and universal phenomenon, he told The Examiner.

Chin-Hong said cases were high last January and February, so he welcomes the Biden administrations move to equip schools with test kits. The U.S. Department of Education announced last week that it would distribute test kits to any public school upon request.

These free tests are meant to safeguard students, parents and staff throughout the 2023-24 school year, department assistant secretary Roberto Rodriguez said in a statement.

These self-tests are easy to use and can play an important role in preventing the spread of COVID-19, he said. We encourage schools to make use of these.

As of press time, there were 28 hospitalizations due to COVID-19, according to The Citys COVID-19 dashboard, which updates weekly.

Cases remain low because of The Citys high vaccination rates, Chin-Hong said. Still, he recommends that parents get their children vaccinated against the flu and RSV once the vaccination becomes available. The RSV vaccination is only available to individuals aged 60 and older and women pregnant in their third trimesters.

Chin-Hong also recommends that any children who are sick should avoid other children six months and younger, as newborns and babies are more susceptible to serious illness.

Im not worried about kids getting seriously ill from COVID if vaccinated. But the only thing predictable about COVID is that its unpredictable, he said. With the one-two-three punch of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years, when kids go back to school, they may be at risk of getting sick from (flu, RSV) or COVID-19.

The San Francisco Unified School District, citing the Department of Public Health, is encouraging families to stay up to date on vaccinations. SFUSD has no mandate in place requiring students to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The school district is also advising students to stay home when sick.

The federal government will distribute free test kits to U.S. households upon request. Another round of ordering opened Nov. 20, making four more free tests per household available ahead of the holidays.
An aerial view of the downtown Oakland skyline. DianeBentleyRaymond/Getty Images/iStockphoto

A group of teachers from a Bay Area school district plan to host a pro-Palestinian classroom lesson event Wednesday, a move their superintendent said doesnt align with school standards.

The curriculum, created by Oakland Unified School District teachers, has lessons for kindergarten through high school students on the lives of Palestinians in Gaza and its history. In a YouTube video posted Nov. 26, an unnamed teacher from the district urged educators across the district to participate.

In the video, which had 1,800 views as of Tuesday, the teacher said the goal of the event is to engage students in critical thinking and allow them to draw their own conclusions about the Israel-Hamas war.

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You have the ability to encourage students to think critically about whats going on, introduce them to new ideas and have positive conversations about whats going on and what can be done, the teacher said.  This teach-in about Palestine is education, labor power, solidarity and resistance all meshed into one action.

But the teach-in plans have drawn opposition from Oakland Unified Superintendent Kyla Johnson-Trammell. In an email sent Monday to parents and staff members, she said the lesson is neither sanctioned nor approved by the district.

Johnson-Trammell added that the recent teach-in curriculum didnt show all sides of the conflict: Without promoting any partisan point of view, the teacher should help students separate fact from opinion and warn them against drawing conclusions from insufficient data.

Its unclear how many staff members plan to participate in the event or whether the district will implement consequences for those who decide to do so.

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Also in the email, Johnson-Trammell said the teach-in materials did not align with chief academic officer Sondra Aguileras previous advice regarding instruction on the Israel-Hamas war.

In an Oct. 31 letter to OUSD staff, Aguilera said that teachers should focus on humanitarian needs of the people affected in this conflict. She also provided a link with resources provided by the San Diego County Office of Education for teachers to use when discussing the Israel-Hamas war.

I ask that you review these materials and carefully plan how to facilitate these conversations with your students, ensuring they grasp the intricacies of the situation, the diverse perspectives involved, and the immense suffering experienced by all parties in this conflict, Aguilera said in the statement.

SFGATE contacted Aguilera and Johnson-Trammell but did not receive a response.

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The teachers backing Wednesdays lessons said in a statement the Palestine lesson plans provided by the district were biased, resulting in teachers across the district coming together to create new materials. The teach-in materials also include worksheets, books on topics related to Palestine, Palestinian art and films, and social and emotional support resources.

In a statement to SFGATE, the Oakland Education Association, a union that represents Oakland teachers, said it supports the teach-in. Union representatives havent reviewed the materials, but the organization said it believes that teachers should review it and choose what is appropriate for their classrooms.

Educators also have the academic freedom to teach topics in an age-appropriate manner, aligned with State standards, OEA said.

Zahra Billoo, executive director of the San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, a nonprofit advocacy organization, said she believes the OUSD teach-in is important.

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Over the last several years, there have been rising concerns that Palestinian history is underrepresented in our public school curriculum, Billoo said. Its unfortunate that its taken this crisis to say we need to ensure we lift up the realities on the ground.

Jeremy Russell, a spokesperson for the Bay Area Jewish Community Relations Council, told SFGATE that the organization is aware of the teach-in event and supports Johnson-Trammells response.

The curriculum associated with the teach-in is inappropriate and offensive, Russell said in an emailed statement. The fact Superintendent Kyla Johnson-Trammell sent a message that these materials are not to be used has been reassuring. But many still have concerns.

Russell said the Jewish council hopes the teach-in is peaceful but said the group has heard that some Jewish parents may be keeping their children home from school.

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In a Tuesday KPIX-TV interview, when Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao was asked about her take on the teach-in curriculum, she said the superintendent has authority over the school district and is addressing the issue head-on.

With regards to the school district, I know that the superintendent is addressing the issue, but I want to be very clear that antisemitism and Islamophobia has no place in Oakland, whether its on school campus, in the city, in our town, Thao said.

The teach-in event also comes as communities in the Bay Area proposed resolutions regarding the Israel-Hamas war and advocated for various groups.

The Oakland City Council passed a resolution on Nov. 27 calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza. The San Francisco Board of Supervisors is set to propose a resolution on Tuesday calling for a permanent cease-fire in Gaza, release of hostages and other aid.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Georgia and Azerbaijan are close partners. And of course, our partnership is much broader than energy cooperation. Though, this cooperation allowed us to present ourselves in Europe as a consolidated team of strategic importance, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations, Trend reports.

My regular visits to Georgia and Georgian Prime Minister's regular visits to Azerbaijan are not only signs of cooperation, but during these visits very important issues are being discussed.

With respect to Georgia's aspirations to become a member of EU, we can understand it and wish Georgia success and congratulate our Georgian friends with this new developments and the status, which they got, the head of state mentioned.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. We do not want Armenia to be duped by its ostensibly Western amigos, said Maria Zakharova, the Director of the Information and Press Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Trend reports.

Zakharova delivered her speech during today's weekly briefing, commenting on the issue of supplies of Western military equipment to Armenia.

Will be updated
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Azerbaijan Defense Minister, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov received the Chief of the Navy of the Army of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Rear Admiral Shahram Irani, who is on a visit to Azerbaijan, Trend reports via Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry.

At the meeting hosted by the Defense Ministry, Colonel General Hasanov welcomed the Iranian guests and expressed his satisfaction with seeing them in Azerbaijan. The Minister congratulated the guest on the occasion of the Irans Navy Day. The Minister of Defense noted that Azerbaijan-Iran relations are based on ancient historical roots and emphasized the importance of mutual visits in terms of further development of military cooperation.

Rear Admiral Shahram Irani expressed his gratitude for the hospitality, congratulated the Minister of Defense on the restoration of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, as well as on the achievements of the Azerbaijan Army. He conveyed the greetings of the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Lieutenant General Mohammad Hossein Bagheri. The Navy Chief expressed confidence that such meetings would make positive contributions to bilateral military cooperation.

During the meeting, detailed views were exchanged on the development prospects of military cooperation between the two countries, regional security and a number of other topics.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Uzbekistan was the first country which offered us this brotherly support, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations, Trend reports.

With my brother President Mirziyoyev, we jointly inaugurated the school, which was named after the great son of Uzbek people Mirzo Ulugbek in Fuzuli. And this was a great contribution to reconstruction and also great contribution to our brotherly relations, because people of Azerbaijan, not only those who live in Fuzuli, will never forget that, the head of state emphasized.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Last year, on the sidelines of the European Political Community Summit in Prague, there was a proposal to invite the President of France to that meeting between President Michel, Prime Minister Pashinyan and myself, I did not object. But, unfortunately, a week after the meeting - by the way, I consider it positively, because at that meeting, Prime Minister Pashinyan officially recognized Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan but later, he made different statements, including those, which I already referred to this September, congratulating the so-called Nagorno-Karabakh Republic. At the same time, we considered as positive the result of the meeting in Prague, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations, Trend reports.

We were ready to continue in this format. But unfortunately, a week after President of France in one of his TV interviews, used very strange and inappropriate wording about Azerbaijan. But what we've done. He actually cut himself from the process. Because our position was very clear. You can be a mediator, when you are neutral. If you take sides, you lose the chance to be a mediator. We cannot influence the country not to take sides. There are different reasons for that. But in this case, the chance to the mediator is lost. And we officially announced that we do not consider any longer, as appropriate, any participation of any representative of France in normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Therefore, and for that particular reason, I did not go to Granada, the head of state emphasized.
Coventry Building Society, one of Britains largest building societies, is looking at a takeover of the Co-operative Bank, it was reported on Wednesday.

The proposed merger, reported by Sky News, would effectively remutualise the Co-Op and create a financial services giant with assets nearing 90bn.

Sky said that discussions between the two entities were underway, but they were not in exclusive negotiations.

The combined entity would be comparable to Virgin Money UK, serving around five million customers.

Coventry Building Society, which Sky said was receiving advisory support from KPMG, is ranked third in the UK by assets.

The price under discussion between Coventry and the Co-op was unknown, although banking analysts previously estimated the Co-operative Banks value at about 800m.

Coventry Building Society did not comment on the speculations but told Sky it was open to opportunities to enhance its members value and services.

Other potential suitors of the Co-operative Bank included Shawbrook Bank, while Aldermore Bank withdrew from the process without submitting a formal proposal.

A successful bid from the Coventry would essentially return the Co-operative Bank to mutual ownership.

In 2013, the Co-ops bid to acquire the Lloyds TSB branch network that became the independent TSB fell apart amidst its own financial crisis.

At the time, the bank secured a 1.5bn rescue from American hedge funds.

Further financial support was required from investors in 2017, with Bain Capital Credit and JC Flowers acquiring a 10% stake.

A consortium of hedge funds currently owned the majority of its equity.

Discussions about a sale to Cerberus Capital Management in December 2020 failed to reach a resolution, while the Co-op explored a merger with the Banco Sabadell-owned TSB in 2021, although that did not progress.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. The Head of the Presidential Administration and the Head of the Coordination Headquarters for addressing issues in Azerbaijans liberated territories in a centralized manner, Samir Nuriyev met with visiting British Minister of State for Exports Lord Malcolm Offord, Trend reports.

At the meeting, both sides expressed satisfaction with Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom's strong friendly ties and multifaceted cooperation. The successful expansion of bilateral cooperation in oil and gas, trade, transportation, education, the transition to 'green' energy, and other areas was stressed.

Samir Nuriyev appreciated the United Kingdom for its consistent and principled support for Azerbaijan's territorial integrity and sovereignty during the Armenian occupation of the country's lands. The United Kingdom's balanced stance inside international institutions was likewise well regarded.

Will be updated
Travel giant Tui said it would ask shareholders to approve a move of its stock market listing to Frankfurt from London as it also forecast a 25% rise in operating profit this year after 2023 earnings more than doubled on the back of strong demand.

Tui said it had been recently approached by certain shareholders over whether its current listing structure was optimal and advantageous and if an inclusion on Frankfurts MDAX would be beneficial.

This is against the background, that in the period since the completion of the merger with Tui Travel and, more significantly in the past four years, the ownership of Tui AGs shares and the liquidity on the exchanges has evolved significantly with a notable liquidity migration from UK to Germany, the company said.

In light of the views expressed by shareholders and any further feedback from shareholders, the executive board is currently considering, if an upgrade to a Prime Standard listing in Frankfurt with MDAX inclusion and a delisting from the London Stock Exchange would be in the best interest of shareholders.

Tui said potential advantages of a move were centralisation of liquidity, providing a clearer investment profile under a single listing, potential benefits to European Union airline ownership and control requirements, potentially enhancing TUI AGs equity profile with an expected prominent position in the MDAX50 and creating efficiencies as well as reducing costs.

Shareholders will be asked to vote on the issue at the companys annual meeting on February 13. Under the UK listing rules, a delisting will require shareholder approval of at least a 75% majority of the votes cast.

PROFITS SURGE ON STRONG DEMAND

Tui posted underlying operating profit of 977m for the year to September 30, up 568m on revenue which came in at 20.7bn. The company forecast a 10% rise in sales this year.

"Our strategic initiatives to increase value and the current booking trend lead us to expect a further improvement in 2024," chief executive Sebastian Ebel said on Wednesday. However, the company cautioned that its guidance was set against the backdrop of "current macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties, particularly in the Middle East".

AJ Bell investment director Russ Mould said that, unlike some recent departures from the UK stock market, "Tui may not be massively missed".

Recent departures to hit London's reputation as a major financial centre include, building materials group CRH, which in March said it was moving its primary listing to the US, after the UK-based plumbing equipment supplier Ferguson (formerly known as Wolseley), which did the same last year.

Cambridge-based chip designer Arm also turned its back on the UKs in favour of a huge floatation on the Nasdaq in New York.

Partly thanks to the pandemic, its share performance has been turbulent to say the least and its operational track record has been far from flawless too. The company is on an upwards trajectory though  announcing an impressive increase in earnings as it demonstrated some pricing power and managed to trim its still onerous debt pile," Mould said.

There is obvious logic to the move given Tui is very much a German business which even received a bailout from the countrys government during Covid. It will be interesting to see how investors vote in February  with the required 75% approval a high bar to clear."

Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com
Australian miner Woodside Energy has signed a deal with energy company Mexico Pacific to buy 1.3 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) a year for two decades.

Under the terms of the deal, Woodside will buy the LNG from Mexico Pacific's Saguaro Energia LNG project, located in Sonora, Mexico on a free-on-board basis with pricing linked to US gas indices.

The deal is subject to Mexico Pacific taking a final investment decision on a proposed third train at the project, which is expected in the first half of 2024, with commercial operations expected to start in 2029, Woodside said in a statement

"LNG is expected to play a critical role in the energy transition and long-term demand is anticipated to remain strong. This agreement is consistent with Woodside's strategic objective of building global scale and flexibility in its LNG portfolio."

Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com
Adani Group Chairman, Gautam Adani, Claims 15th Spot Among World's Wealthiest, Adds Over $12 Billion in Adani Group Stocks Rally. Adani reentered the top 20 global rich list in November, propelled by the surge in Adani Group stocks. With a current net worth of $82.5 billion, Adani's wealth skyrocketed by more than $12 billion due to the recent rally in his company's stocks.

Adani Group market cap hit an 11-month high, reaching Rs 13.8 lakh crore in mcap in trade. The Adani conglomerate clinched its best-ever single-day market performance adding Rs 1.92 lakh crore in one day gains. strong gains also come on the heels of reports indicating that the US International Development Finance Corp (DFC) did not find the allegations of corporate fraud by short-seller Hindenburg Research relevant. Before extending a significant loan to the conglomerate for a port project in Sri Lanka, the DFC reportedly conducted a thorough examination of the claims against the Adani Group.

All 10 stocks in the Adani group clocked gains ranging from 7-20 per cent with Adani Green Energy and Adani Energy Solutions hitting gains of 20 per cent. The Group's flagship company Adani Enterprises Ltd (AEL) saw a staggering rise in its share price by 16.91 per cent, increasing its market valuation by a substantial Rs 48,809 crore. Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) also performed solidly with a 15.3 per cent gain in share price, contributing Rs 29,043 crore to the market cap.
India and Kenya Affirm Commitment to Boost Maritime Security Collaboration, Strengthening Institutional Frameworks. The 2016-established India-Kenya Joint Defence Cooperation Committee plays a pivotal role in this strategic alliance. Both nations, key players in a critical maritime region for global trade, acknowledge extensive opportunities for mutual gains in goods, services, investment, and technology. Following discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto, the IndiaKenya Joint Vision Statement on Maritime Cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region, named 'BAHARI,' was unveiled.

According to the Joint Vision statement, trade facilitation measures, logistics links, and the promotion of a sustainable fishing industry are key considerations for India and Kenya. This includes collaboration in the shipbuilding industry, focusing on capacity building and co-development of defence equipment like maritime surveillance tools, offshore patrol vessels, fast attack crafts, and other essential resources necessary for Kenyas maritime forces.

"Maritime security cooperation takes precedence, addressing issues such as piracy, armed robbery, maritime terrorism, illegal fishing, human migration, contraband smuggling, and emerging threats. Both nations acknowledge their roles in the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to maritime security", the vision document states.

In-ship visits, joint exercises, and participation in multilateral frameworks like Djibouti Code of Conduct-Jeddah Amendment (DCOC-JA) and Contact Group on Illicit Maritime Activity (CGIMA) are identified as essential elements in strengthening maritime ties, according to the document. Both nations commit to participating in regular dialogues, meetings, and information-sharing networks to address common challenges in a coordinated manner. Recognizing the potential of the Blue Economy, India and Kenya plan to finalize a Memorandum of Understanding in the Blue Economy and Fisheries Sector. This aims to harness the potential of fisheries, aquaculture, renewable energy, and marine biotechnology while promoting sustainable development and conserving marine resources.

The vision document underscores the importance of improving connectivity for trade, tourism, creative industries, and B2B linkages. Emphasis is placed on investing in and collaborating on ports to ensure the seamless flow of goods, strengthening regional connectivity. India pledges to provide capacity-building support to Kenya in areas such as oceanography, ship design and construction, dredging, welding, fisheries, port development, and research capacity. The focus is on the transfer of marine technology among research and development institutions.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. I already said that those who want to come back they can come back. Their apartments, their houses stay untouched, unlike what you've seen in Zangilan and in other parts totally destroyed, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations.

As I said, another option is to have a work permit or residence permit based on the common practice, which every country has, based on quotas, which every country has for migrant labor force that can be organized. Of course, with respect to return of Azerbaijanis to the territory of Armenia, we expect from Armenia, the same approach.

At least, to do the same. Also to create an electronic reintegration portal to provide the information about their own villages - most of the villages, where Azerbaijanis lived, either destroyed or abandoned. Because of the poor demographic situation in Armenia, they cannot organize settlement in Azerbaijani villages the way how they want. In some they live, but most of them are empty. So, at least to allow Azerbaijanis to come, to see, to visit, and I think that could be a good sign of reconciliation. Therefore, we think and we know that Azerbaijanis, who have roots in todays territory of Armenia, are eager to go back. Some of them may consider and, I think, it is absolutely realistic to resettle there in their villages, some want just to come and visit the graves of the ancestors. Some want to just go, visit and come back. So, this must be allowed. Armenia should not block this natural humanitarian need of hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis, who have been deported from there. We demonstrate how it should be. We demonstrate how their property, how their religious sites must be protected, and everyone who goes now to Khankendi and to other places, where there was a majority of Armenian population can see. So, we expect them to do the same. That will be a demonstration of their will for peace, the head of state emphasized.
OpenText, a global leader in enterprise information management, has made the generative AI vision for enterprises a reality with its latest Aviator suite of solutions. The company has established itself as a hub for the brightest minds and innovators with a workforce of more than 6,000 across offices in Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Chennai. OpenText's India-based team is integral to global operations, product development, and customer service. The development centres in India drive significant innovations for the company.

The recent launch of opentext.ai marks a strategic step forward, leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Large Language Models (LLM) to enhance problem-solving through OpenText Information Management software. The India development team plays a pivotal role in realizing these innovations, reinforcing their crucial contribution to shaping OpenText's role in addressing complex information challenges worldwide.

OpenText Aviator : OpenText leverages the power of AI for latest innovations with OpenText Aviator. This innovative platform integrates Practical Generative AI on Private Secured Data Sources, showcasing OpenText's commitment to cutting-edge technology.

: OpenText leverages the power of AI for latest innovations with OpenText Aviator. This innovative platform integrates Practical Generative AI on Private Secured Data Sources, showcasing OpenText's commitment to cutting-edge technology. Business Integrations:

Content Aviator: Transforming OpenText Core Content with a conversational search experience, managing structured and unstructured data at scale, and automating intelligent workspaces. Business Network Aviator: Revolutionizing business connectivity within OpenText Business Network Cloud Foundation, identifying anomalies in trading data, automating data mapping, and supporting intelligent decisions. IT Operations Aviator: Bringing automation to the full IT Operations value chain within OpenText SMAX, redefining Level 1 Business Support across IT, HR, and Sales. DevOps Aviator: Elevating developers globally within OpenText ValueEdge, enhancing application delivery, and providing actionable insights into digital value stream KPIs. Cybersecurity Aviator: Strengthening security with contextual threat intelligence via API cloud services within OpenText BrightCloud, reacting to threats in real-time. Experience Aviator: Transforming customer communications and digital experiences through advanced LLM and generative AI within OpenText Exstream.

Private Cloud Aviator : OpenText has also introduced Private Cloud Aviator, offering a trusted partner for organizations' AI journey. This includes a new Professional Service offering to help set up a private LLM, empowering organizations to experiment with AI and LLMs while ensuring data protection.

: OpenText has also introduced Private Cloud Aviator, offering a trusted partner for organizations' AI journey. This includes a new Professional Service offering to help set up a private LLM, empowering organizations to experiment with AI and LLMs while ensuring data protection. Aviator Development : Several of OpenText's flagship products, Aviators, were mostly built by the India team. The company has strategically distributed its platform teams, with 97% of the Documentum team based in Bengaluru, 88% of the Grid platform also in Bengaluru, 90% of the Extended ECM platform team in Hyderabad, and 80% of the Magellan platform team in Hyderabad.

: Several of OpenText's flagship products, Aviators, were mostly built by the India team. The company has strategically distributed its platform teams, with 97% of the Documentum team based in Bengaluru, 88% of the Grid platform also in Bengaluru, 90% of the Extended ECM platform team in Hyderabad, and 80% of the Magellan platform team in Hyderabad. Titanium X Enhancements : OpenText's capability roadmap and architecture, Titanium X, is being updated for deeper integration across Cloud Editions. This includes leveraging AI tools and foundation technologies such as OpenText Vertica, OpenText IDOL, OpenText Magellan, Core Capture for Machine Learning, IOT Services, Risk Guard, and more.

: OpenText's capability roadmap and architecture, Titanium X, is being updated for deeper integration across Cloud Editions. This includes leveraging AI tools and foundation technologies such as OpenText Vertica, OpenText IDOL, OpenText Magellan, Core Capture for Machine Learning, IOT Services, Risk Guard, and more. Talent Utilization: Leveraging the immense talent pool that India offers, OpenText is dedicated to fostering continued innovation and growth. This commitment is reflected in the significant workforce presence in key Indian cities.

Muhi Majzoub, Executive Vice President & Chief Product Officer, OpenText, said: For decades, enterprises have turned to OpenText for help with information management complexities, giving us deep experience organizing, connecting, governing, and protecting all types of large data sets. AI requires the foundational data strategies OpenText is known for. Building on this experience, we announced OpenText Aviator, where Practical Generative AI meets the security of private data sources, enabling unparalleled innovation for our customers. The successful rollout of OpenText Aviator, with many being mostly built in India, highlights the immense capabilities of our teams and the strategic importance of our operations in the region.

Saurabh Saxena, Regional Vice President, OpenText India, said: "India holds a very strategic position for OpenText. We are at the epicenter of product development for the company and can proudly say that we make in India for the world. From a business perspective, India has a huge potential for information management, more so with the push towards digitization from the Indian government. We believe that companies of all sizes can be smarter with OpenText as it is the integrated platform of platforms that help customers build, automate, connect, secure, predict and act".

OpenText believes that to be successful in todays and tomorrows digital world, information must scale to support everyone and everything, everywhere, all at once. It means unlocking valuable insights and empowering people all while protecting their information and doing better for customer communities. Modern information management strategy connects data, secures knowledge and applies intelligence for any user, any data type, anywhere, at any speed, for any rules.
Union Bank of India, a prominent public sector bank in India, is partnering with Accenture to create a scalable and secure enterprise data lake platform equipped with advanced analytics and reporting features. This initiative aims to elevate the bank's operational efficiency, enabling improved provision of customer-centric banking services and enhanced risk management. Leveraging predictive analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, the platform will harness both structured and unstructured data from internal and external sources to generate meaningful business insights.

This initiative will empower the bank to establish robust data visualization and reporting capabilities, encompassing interactive dashboards and reports designed for business, operational, and regulatory needs. Employees will gain access to business intelligence, enhancing customer service and operational agility across the bank's branches, contact centers, and digital channels. Consequently, the bank will be equipped to make well-informed decisions and discover new data-driven opportunities for value creation. The impact will extend across its business spectrum, spanning corporate, retail, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) banking, as well as various functions such as risk management, treasury, customer service, and operations.

A. Manimekhalai, Managing Director & CEO, Union Bank of India said, "Leveraging advanced analytics and AI, we see potential to unlock tremendous value from data - to form meaningful customer relationships, enhance employee productivity and achieve profitable growth. This collaboration with Accenture is a key step towards our goal to evolve into a data-driven and digitally forward bank that supports the next generation of banking services".
Over 700 delegates and dignitaries from Indias thriving Cloud and Data Center industry, including C-level executives, end users, buyers and key decision makers turned up to celebrate Mumbais vibrant Data Center market at W.Medias Cloud & Datacenter Convention and Awards 2023 (Mumbai CDC).

Mumbai CDC was held at hotel St. Regis in the heart of Mumbais thriving Lower Parel business district. The day began with lighting of the ceremonial lamp, and saw several power-packed panel discussions where the creme de la creme of the Cloud and Data Center industry shared their thoughts on a variety of topics ranging from building to scale, to renewable energy options and sustainability, to liquid cooling, to the advent of new technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and Internet of Things (IoT), to supply chain management and much more.

Speaking during the first power panel discussion on building to scale, Sanjay Bhutani (Chief Business Officer, Adani Connex), said, We need to focus on sustainability and safety while building data centers to scale, adding, We have to make sure sustainability goes beyond power, we need to look at it holistically. Water management and decar- bonisation should be a matter of great focus too.

Syed Mohammed Beary (Founder and Chairman of Bearys Group) concurred and emphasised the need to adhere to green building standards, saying, Theres a difference between passion statement and fashion statement for sus- tainability.

The panel was moderated by Nick Parfitt who handles Research, Content and Production, for W.Media. Panelist Sumit Mukhija (ED & CEO, ST Telemedia GDC) took the concept of scale itself head on, and said, Scale is a relative term; its definition will change in five years. His fellow-panelist, Sujeet Deshpande (CEO and Founder, Lumina CloudInfra) also agreed that things were changing rapidly and this would have an impact on the Cloud and Data Center industry. He said, 5G is just a year old, and in coming years it will change the dynamic of the industry.

Many other movers and shakers of the Cloud and Data Center industry shared their insights on key factors impacting the growth and development of Indias digital infrastructure. Manish Shangari (VP, AECOM) made a powerful case for the need for effective skill building to create a suitable workforce for the Cloud and Data Center industry. Gaurav Dixit (Service Delivery Manager, Strategic Alliances, Lefdal Mine Data Center) advocated for a comprehensive green agenda.

Other high-profile panelists included Vinod Javur (COO, Digital Edge DC), Neil Johnson (President, Data Center Solutions, CBRE), Mona Shrivastav (Chief Manager IT, BPCL), Ninad Raje (Director and CEO, Health Assure), Manu Sharma (CFO, Pi Data Centers), Ashish Limaye (Head of Procurement  India, Colt DCS), as well as respected industry experts like NK Jain (Founder NK Jain Consulting Engineers), Mahesh Trivedi (Data Center Consultant, DC Consultant) and many others.

The Expo Hall was buzzing with activity as delegates visited stalls where vendors presented their latest techno- logies. Mumbai CDC also presented a networking opportunity like no other. The evening ended with a glitzy awards function where 16 awards were given surrounding three main categories: People, Planet and Projects. Heres the list of award winners:

People:

1) Data Center Project Team  MU1 (Princeton Digital Group)

2) Data Center Operations Team  Yotta D1 Operations Team (Yotta Data Services Pvt. Ltd.)

3) Data Center Client Delivery Team  ERO Power Project Team (ERO Power LLP)

4) Technology Leader  Vinod Javur (COO, Digital Edge DC)

5) Technology Leader  Jayabalan Kuthalingam (Director of Engineering, Princeton Digital Group)

6) Business Leader  Kamal Nath (CEO, Sify)

7) Business Leader  Sandeep Dandekar (Senior Director)

Planet:

1) Innovation in Energy Efficiency  Project Energy Smart Energy and Operational Efficiency Drive (STT GDC)

2) Sustainability in Design and Build  CapitaLand

3) Sustainable Transformation Strategy  Datasamudra

4) Skills Development Initiative  DSP Mutual Fund

Projects:

1) Delivering the Edge  Avalon Technologies Limited

2) Data Center Design and Build  Pi Data Centers

3) Network and Interconnect Initiative  Mizuho Bank

4) Digital Technology inside the Data Center  AdaniConneX

5) Innovation in Outsourcing, Migration and Hybrid Strategies  TVS Mobility
BetterPlace, a workforce management SaaS platform, has appointed Deepak Lamba as the new head of enterprise sales for India. In this capacity, Lamba will lead the sales team's activities in India, aligning the country's sales strategies with BetterPlace's global teams. With prior experiences at Wingify and Hubilo, Lamba held key positions including head of sales for the UK and Europe, as well as vice president of global sales. In these roles, he played a crucial part in boosting sales, spearheading lead-generation initiatives, and substantially augmenting the companies' revenue streams.

Pravin Agarwala, Co-Founder and Group CEO of BetterPlace highlighted India's substantial role in the SaaS business and its significance. Agarwala emphasized, "India remains a key growth driver for our SaaS business due to its large workforce and high digital adoption rates". Regarding Deepak Lamba's extensive experience in top tech firms like Dell, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Oracle, and Adobe, Agarwala emphasized, "Deepak's proficiency in driving sales across diverse markets will enable us to harness this potential and strengthen our market position".

Deepak Lamba expressed his enthusiasm for BetterPlace's contribution in addressing challenges related to frontline workforce management. He said, "BetterPlace, through its comprehensive horizontal SaaS platform, has been actively resolving some of the most complex challenges in frontline workforce management." Lamba also highlighted the critical necessity for technological solutions in workforce management, stating, "Workforce management remains a primary cost center for enterprises, yet there are limited tech firms addressing these pain points and aiding enterprises in optimization".
Rapido, a prominent bike-taxi startup commanding a 60% market share, has made a strategic move into the cab industry by unveiling Rapido Cabs, an intra-city mobility solution operated on a SaaS model. This expansion involves the introduction of an initial fleet of 100,000 vehicles. The startup's innovative SaaS platform marks a significant departure from the traditional commission structure for drivers, addressing the long-standing issue of commission sharing with aggregators.

Pavan Guntupalli, Co-Founder of Rapido, highlighted that their groundbreaking approach ensures drivers only pay a minimal software usage fee, signifying a notable industry shift. The SaaS-based platform serves as a connection point between drivers and customers without Rapido exercising control over the marketplace. Within Rapido's system, drivers receive direct payments from customers, devoid of any intervention by Rapido. Drivers are obligated to pay a nominal subscription fee. The company stated that once drivers earn Rs 10,000 through the Rapido app , they will be charged a modest subscription fee of Rs 500.

Rapido emphasized that passengers benefit from competitive fares in the cab segment due to the comprehensive SaaS-based platform, which amalgamates various commuting solutions into one user-friendly app. Established in 2015, Rapido now operates in more than 100 cities and has amassed over 25 million app downloads. Tracxn data reveals that Rapido has secured a total funding of $324 million. In April of the preceding year, the company raised $180 million, led by the online food delivery service Swiggy.
The India-US space collaboration, marked by joint satellite launches, human spaceflights, and commercial partnerships, signifies a shared commitment to advancing Earth observation and bilateral space exploration efforts.

In a significant development, Union Minister Jitendra Singh revealed that India and the United States will launch a collaborative remote sensing satellite in the year's first quarter. The satellite, designated as the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR), is scheduled for deployment using Indiss Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). The primary objective of this joint venture is to bolster observation capabilities, with a specific focus on studying diverse facets such as land ecosystems, solid earth deformation, polar cryosphere, sea ice, and coastal oceans.

NASA is actively exploring opportunities for private astronaut missions involving Indian astronauts, with a tentative schedule for 2024. The collaboration has given rise to a Joint Working Group (JWG) on human spacecraft cooperation. The meeting of the India-USA JWG on Civil Space Cooperation (CSJWG) underscored the commitment to enhancing bilateral space cooperation.

ISRO, in collaboration with the Department of Space (DoS), is currently in discussions with prominent US companies to explore specific avenues of cooperation. Simultaneously, efforts are underway to foster collaborations with Indian commercial entities. The ongoing discussion between ISRO and NASA has culminated in the development of a concept paper on the Implementing Arrangement (IA), which is currently under consideration. After successive iterations and mutual consensus, the document is in the process of obtaining intra-governmental approvals.

The objective of a joint remote sensing satellite between the two nations is to enhance Earths observation capabilities, marking a substantial advancement in bilateral space collaboration. Remote sensing satellites play a crucial role in monitoring and collecting data about the Earth's surface, atmosphere, and oceans. These satellites provide invaluable information for a range of applications, including agriculture, urban planning, natural resource management, and disaster response. By combining their resources, India and the US aim to develop a state-of-the-art satellite system that significantly improves the accuracy and efficiency of remote sensing data collection.

The collaborative satellite project benefits from the technological expertise of both nations. India's space agency, the ISRO, is renowned for its successful space missions and has a proven track record in satellite development. Meanwhile, the United States NASA brings its vast experience in space exploration and cutting-edge technologies to the table. The synergy between the two agencies is expected to result in a satellite that leverages the strengths of both nations, pushing the boundaries of remote sensing capabilities. The joint satellite is poised to make significant contributions across various domains. In agriculture, for example, the satellite's high-resolution imagery aids farmers in monitoring crop health, optimizing irrigation, and predicting yield. Urban planners use the data for efficient city development and infrastructure management. Environmentalists will benefit from enhanced monitoring of ecosystems, biodiversity, and climate patterns. Additionally, the satellite will be crucial in disaster management by providing real-time information during natural calamities such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods.

The collaboration between India and the United States in space exploration represents a significant stride toward advancing Earth observation capabilities and fostering bilateral cooperation in space exploration. The joint efforts encompass satellite launches, human spaceflight programs, and collaborations with commercial entities, reflecting a shared commitment to the advancement of space exploration.
NASA Chief Bill Nelson's visit to India highlighted substantial potential for collaboration in space exploration, emphasizing mutual openness to joint projects in space stations and lunar exploration for advancing scientific research.

In a recent visit to India, NASAs chief, Bill Nelson, engaged in a discussion about potential collaboration between the two countries in space exploration. Addressing queries about the prospect of a joint space mission, Nelson expressed NASAs openness to partnering with India, particularly in constructing its space station.

A significant element of the conversation included Nelson revealing the ongoing talks between the United States and India about the potential inclusion of an Indian astronaut on the International Space Station (ISS) by the first quarter of 2024. The selection of astronauts for this mission would be determined by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), emphasizing that NASA would not be involved in the selection process.

Responding to inquiries about a potential collaboration, Nelson assured that NASA would readily cooperate with India if the country expressed interest in such endeavors. He underscored that the decision to collaborate would ultimately rest with India.

Notably, India has set ambitious goals in space exploration, envisioning the development of a commercial space station by 2040. This timeline aligns with Nelson's acknowledgment that the United States anticipates having its space station by then.

Indian Prime Minister Modi has recently conveyed optimism about ISRO working towards establishing an Indian Space Station by 2035 and aiming to land an Indian astronaut on the moon by 2040.

During discussions between India's Minister of State for Science and Technology, Shri Jitendra Singh, and NASA's Nelson, the focus shifted to India's lunar exploration plans. Nelson highlighted that India would determine the goals and achievements on the moon's surface, reaffirming NASA's commitment to researching and studying all pertinent information essential to India. Introducing another dimension of collaboration, Nelson emphasized the upcoming launch of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) observatory, scheduled for the first quarter of 2024. NISARs data, compiled from 25 spacecraft, would provide a comprehensive understanding of Earths atmosphere, weather, and climate, aiding scientists in their research endeavors.

The visit and discussions between NASAs chief and Indian officials underscored the potential for significant collaboration between the US and India in space exploration. The mutual openness to cooperation, particularly in space station projects and lunar exploration projects, reflects a shared vision for advancing scientific research and exploration beyond Earths boundaries.
Over the past decade, the dynamic landscape of international relations has witnessed a significant transformation, with science and technology initiatives emerging as pivotal contributors to diplomatic partnerships. One such noteworthy alliance is the evolving relationship between India and the US. the strategic collaboration between these two nations has strengthened bilateral ties and fostered innovation, economic growth, and global leadership.

With regards to defense collaboration, both parties have concluded the security of supply arrangement (SOSA) to bolster the autonomy of their respective supply chains, and they have established the Roadmap for Defense Industrial Cooperation between the United States and India. In a subsequent bilateral meeting following the 2+2 dialogue, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin delved into the developments concerning the General Electric F-414 deal and explored potential opportunities for the joint production of Stryker infantry combat vehicles.

During the dialogue, significant attention was given to the advancements in S&T partnerships. The ministers emphasized the strides taken under the collaborations in science, technology, and critical technology value chains. Private sector investments from the United States into India's semiconductor ecosystem are supported by a call for sustained strategic collaborations among academic, research, and corporate entities in burgeoning fields like quantum, telecom, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and semiconductors. This is emphasized as a means to drive innovation on a global scale.

The ministers recognized progress in space collaborations, highlighting the formation of a sub-working group focused on space commerce and Indias engagement in global space organizations. Deliberations encompassed mineral security, energy collaboration, and enhanced science and technology cooperation between India and the US within the bilateral agreement. Noteworthy collaborative structures, including the iCET, IndiaUS Civil Space Joint Working Group, Joint Committee Meeting on Science and Technology, and the Strategic Trade Dialogue Monitoring Mechanism, underscored these mechanisms' evolving and consolidating nature.

The collaboration between academic, research, and corporate sectors in emerging technologies within both countries is poised for enhancement through initiatives like the IndiaUnited States Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS X). This program aims to create an innovation bridge, fostering connections among defense startups.

Indus-X reflects on establishing the TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs) Network of Indian-American entrepreneurs. The network aimed to support entrepreneurship and networking for many Indians who came to the United States as students and later established tech start-ups in Silicon Valley. This trend persists in the current record high of 268,923 Indian students studying in the U.S., with over 73,000 pursuing engineering degrees. This substantial pool of students could potentially contribute to the growing Science and Technology collaborations, provided there is successful channeling through awareness and targeted programs in universities with a significant Indian student presence.

In the bilateral relationship between India and the United States, highlighted notably through the dialogues, a clear and consistent trend toward increased strategic collaboration is observable. Moving beyond the initial focus on economic cooperation and alignment in the defense realm, there is a forward-looking inclination towards nurturing collaboration in science and technology. Pioneering initiatives like iCET and Indus-X underscore the innovative spirit inherent in science and technology endeavors. The ongoing contributions of numerous Indian students to the innovation landscape in the U.S. present an opportunity to further enhance their participation in these programs, ultimately benefiting both nations.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A Brooklyn day care director from Staten Island was arrested and charged with submitting an altered CPR certificate to the City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), according to a city announcement released Tuesday.

Angelina Stasyuk, 40, is facing multiple charges, including criminal possession of a forged Instrument, offering a false instrument for filing, falsifying business records and misrepresentation by a child day care provider, Jocelyn E. Strauber, commissioner of the New York City Department of Investigation (DOI), said in the press release.

Public records indicate Stasyuks address is in Richmond.

According to the criminal complaint, group childcare facilities in New York City must receive a DOHMH permit to operate, and each facility must designate an educational director, who must have certain qualifications.

DOI began its investigation after DOHMH reported discrepancies in a CPR certificate allegedly submitted by Stasyuk in March 2023, according to the release.

As charged, the defendant, an educational director of a childcare program in New York City, altered a CPR certificate so that it would appear active, DOI Commissioner Jocelyn E. Strauber said.

The case is being prosecuted by the office of Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez.

This certification, which confirms current training in critical, life-saving skills, is required to operate a childcare facility,' said Strauber. The charged conduct violates the trust parents and caregivers placed in this business. I thank the sharp-eyed Department of Health employee for reporting this matter to DOI, and the Brooklyn District Attorneys Office for their partnership in our efforts to ensure that city childcare facilities comply with all safety-related requirements.

If convicted, Stasyuk faces up to 12 years in prison, the release said.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A new unit was opened on Rikers Island for individuals suspected of setting fires, but closed the next day after a federal monitor found it lacked required fire prevention equipment, Gothamist reported.

A special report filed in a New York federal court on Thursday by federal monitor Steve Martin  who along with a team is charged with overseeing conditions at Rikers Island under a 2015 court agreement to reduce violence in the jails  noted the apparent oversight.

Fire suppression systems are necessary for all housing units, Martin said, but the need is particularly acute for a unit attempting to re-house known fire-setters and thereby reduce arsons, the outlet reported.

Frank Dwyer, a spokesman for the city Department of Correction, said the unit has enough sprinklers to meet city building codes, but not one in every cell.

The new housing unit was designed for detainees suspected of starting fires, with the aim to reduce the overall number of fires on Rikers Island.

Lawyers, meanwhile, continue to debate whether control of New York Citys jails should be placed under federal receivership, due to increasingly unsafe conditions at Rikers Island, including high levels of violence, officers using force on detainees and a lack of transparency on the issues from city leaders, the Advance/SILive.com previously reported.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. As the countries, who supply Armenia with weapons like France and India, now pour the oil on fire and create unrealistic illusions in Armenia that using these weapons they can take back Karabakh, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations, Trend reports.

I don't want to go into details about the quality of these weapons. Though, I know what kind of weapons these are, but even if there's a state-of-the-art weapons, they have no chance. Because the war and the result of war is decided not by weapons, but by people, by spirit. And during the Second Karabakh War, according to Armenians own statements, there have been 12,000 deserters from the battlefield in Armenian army and zero in the Azerbaijani army. So, they have no chance, the head of state noted.
Actor Jamie Foxx made a surprise appearance at the Critics Choice Associations Celebration of Cinema and Television: Honoring Black, Latino and Asian American and Pacific Islanders achievements, CNN is reporting.

The appearance marks Foxxs first major outing since he was hospitalized in April with an undisclosed medical condition, the report said.

Ive been through something' Foxx said. Ive been through some things. You know, its crazy ... I couldnt actually walk.

I wouldnt wish what I went through on my worst enemy, because its tough, Foxx added. I have a new respect for life. I have a new respect for my art. Dont give up on your art, man, dont give up.

Foxx went on to acknowledge how far hes come in his recovery, adding that six months ago he couldnt imagine being able to be at such an event, the report said.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Mayor Eric Adams hosted a town hall for older adults in Sea View Tuesday to discuss issues like migrants, crime, and congestion pricing.

Adams  joined by members of his administration and local elected officials, including Borough President Vito Fossella, Assemblyman Michael Tannousis (R-East Shore/South Brooklyn), Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo (R-Mid-Island), and Councilman David Carr (R-Mid-Island)  fielded about a dozen questions from the crowd focused on things like safety, the migrant crisis, and congestion pricing.

One thing I know about Staten Island  youre some plain-talking folks,' Adams said at the start of the town hall in the Joan and Alan Bernikow Jewish Community Center on Manor Road. You are not afraid of letting folks know how you feel and sharing your thoughts.

Adams took an opportunity during his opening remarks to address a pair of mounting scandals hes faced in recent weeks  a 1993 sexual assault accusation that he has denied, and ongoing campaign investigations, for which the mayor has denied wrongdoing and said he is cooperating with investigators.

The first town hall question was about congestion pricing and the impact the charge will have on Staten Islanders, particularly those who need to travel into Manhattan often.

On Thursday, the Traffic Mobility Review Board, the six-member panel tasked with recommending toll prices, credits, discounts and exemptions for New York Citys congestion pricing program, issued its recommendation to the transit agency, which includes a $15 toll for passenger vehicles when they enter Manhattans Central Business District (CBD), defined as any area south of 60th Street.

In response, Adams pointed out that the congestion-pricing program is predominantly a product of state government, and he highlighted some of his administrations efforts to secure exemptions for things like taxi cabs and government vehicles.

Several questions from the audience focused on public safety issues like the rising crime on the Island, hate crimes in particular, and traffic safety.

According to CompStat, the NYPDs crime data tracking software, crime has increased locally since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. An ongoing Advance/SILive.com project called Crime Perceptions has found Staten Islanders are most concerned about the rising crime levels.

On public safety, Adams passed the question to Mark Stewart, the NYPDs deputy commissioner of community affairs, who said that public safety was the administrations main concern.

Our main concern is (that) you have a safe place to sleep tonight and you can walk the streets, he said.

Adams also fielded some questions about the citys ongoing migrant crisis. He said at the town hall that about 150,000 people have made their way to the five boroughs since spring 2022  tens of thousands of whom remain in the citys care.

Those people in need of shelter have prompted the city to set up over 200 emergency migrant shelters around the city, including several on Staten Island, and officials have said they expect the crisis to cost the city as much as $12 billion over the next few years.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  The federal government is proposing a new plan to provide up to $20,000 in financial relief to student loan borrowers.

The Biden-Harris administration  which has already approved a total of $127 billion in student debt forgiveness for 3.6 million borrowers  has unveiled a new proposal to help borrowers experiencing financial hardship.

The latest efforts are part of a plan to use the Higher Education Act of 1965 to cancel student loan debt. Negotiations on the proposal are set for this month, and then the U.S. Department of Education will start to work on draft rules that will be released to the public in early 2024.

Student loans are supposed to be a bridge to a better life, not a life sentence of endless debt, said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. This rule-making process is about standing up for borrowers whove been failed by the countrys broken student loan system and creating new regulations that will reduce the burden of student debt in this country.

Under the new plan, heres who would be covered:

Borrowers whose balances are greater than what they owed upon entering repayment.

This would provide up to $10,000 in relief to all borrowers who have experienced balance growth due to interest. In some cases, low-income borrowers could see up to $20,000 in debt relief, as well as borrowers enrolled in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan.

Borrowers whose loans first entered repayment many years ago.

This would provide one-time relief 20 years after entering repayment for borrowers with only undergraduate loans. All other borrowers would receive forgiveness on loans that entered repayment 25 years ago.

Borrowers who are eligible for existing loan repayment programs but have not yet applied for such relief.

This includes borrowers eligible for income-driven repayment plans or discharge opportunities, such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness. It would provide borrowers with the benefits they have earned but who havent applied for relief.

Borrowers who attended programs or institutions that failed to deliver sufficient financial value.

This policy would provide relief to borrowers repaying loans from schools that are no longer allowed to participate in federal aid programs or when a higher education institution has closed.

Most recently, more than 800,000 student loan borrowers had their debt forgiven. The automatic discharges were a result of fixes made by the Biden administration, in which borrowers werent accurately getting credit for student loan payments that should have delivered them forgiveness under Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) plans or were placed into forbearance by loan servicers in violation of U.S. Department of Education rules. Under these plans, if a borrower makes 20 or 25 years worth of payments, they get the remaining balances of their loans forgiven.

However, due to inaccurate payment counts, more than 804,000 borrowers never got this credit. These borrowers  who have been in repayment for more than 20 years  began to see their student debt canceled in August.
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BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. President Ilham Aliyev shared with us his strategic vision of Azerbaijan's future, former US Ambassador to Azerbaijan Matthew Bryza said, Trend reports.

He spoke on the sidelines of the "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges", organized by ADA University in cooperation with the Center for the Analysis of International Relations.

The former ambassador noted that during the three-hour conference President Ilham Aliyev answered everyones questions, he was so clear, sincere, strategic and he outlined a vision for Azerbaijans future in cooperation with its friends from Central Asia, Europe and the US.

"Moreover, he provided an explanation of the past, how Azerbaijan prepared for many years to be independent politically and economically, and have capacity to restore its sovereignty," Bryza said.

He also noted that key point of President Ilham Aliyev's speech is that Azerbaijan was clearly eager to finalize a peace treaty.

"President Ilham Aliyev hopes that Pashinyan as well can fight the political opposition to peace that he faces, fight the old regime that wants to come back into power and maybe want to provoke him into another conflict. President Ilham Aliyev also stressed how the removal of illegal Armenian troops in Karabakh and the separatist political regime eliminated the last major obstacle for Pashinyan to proceed to the peace treaty," he said.
Bankruptcy law is all about fresh starts. But just how much of a fresh start does the Sackler family deserve  without having to declare bankruptcy themselves?

The familys former company, Purdue Pharma, has become synonymous with the US opioid epidemic and filed for bankruptcy in 2019. Plaintiffs harmed by that epidemic came to an agreement with the company that if the Sacklers paid $US6 billion ($9 billion) to victims and states, the family would be protected from further civil suits, even though they hadnt personally declared bankruptcy. On Monday, the Department of Justice argued before the Supreme Court that the deal went too far.

If the judge approves the deal, the Sacklers, owners of Purdue Pharma, would pay as much as $US6 billion to help address the opioid damage. Credit: AP

At oral argument, Chief Justice John Roberts suggested that Congress would have to pass a law expressly authorising a bankruptcy court to offer protection from civil suits for defendants in cases like this one. Since the justices seemed to be split between liberals and conservatives, if Roberts can convince at least one other justice of his view, it is likely to determine the outcome of the case.

The factual background here belongs to the realm of mass tort litigation  the realm where private lawsuits can combine with lawsuits brought by state attorneys-general to impose liability on companies and people that damage others by failing to exercise reasonable care. Such suits are rarely brought to a jury because the risks  to both sides  are too great.
Alleged drug boss Ahmed Haouchar will be bailed to a rehabilitation facility frequented by criminals and celebrities after a court heard he allegedly imported 100 kilograms of cocaine using the alias De Niro along with a man using the codename Wally Lewis on a Qantas flight.

Haouchar is accused of being the primary Australian facilitator of a drug shipment that landed at Sydney Airport on October 7 on a flight from South Africa, the Australian Federal Police alleged last month.

Ahmed Haouchar (in glasses) has been bailed to rehabilitation facility Connect Global (bottom right) )which housed celebrities and drug dealers after an AFP operation uncovered a $40 million drug plot at Sydney Airport.

AFP officers swarmed the tarmac, arresting baggage handlers Darren Bragg and Michael McPherson as well as van driver Ziad el-Mustapha, and later a fifth man, David Cain, at a Coogee home.

Haouchar, from Padstow, is accused by the AFP of holding a commanding role in a major international drug syndicate and made contact with a cell in Johannesburg that stocked the plane with drugs worth $40 million. His role, the AFP believe, was to distribute the drugs throughout Australia.
Police have released a photo of a man they wish to speak to after Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses office in Sydneys inner west was vandalised with pro-Palestinian messages.

The electoral office on Marrickville Road in Marrickville was spray-painted with the words Free Gaza and Free Palestine about 1pm on Tuesday.

Police are searching for a man after the prime ministers Sydney office was daubed with pro-Palestinian messages. Credit: Nine News

In a statement, NSW Police said they have launched an investigation into the incident which they described as an act of malicious damage.

Police have released a CCTV image of a man to whom they wish to speak.
Before a typical science lesson at Ryde Secondary College, students line up outside the classroom, and, once at their desks, start the period with a fast-paced set task and take notes by hand.

The head of the schools science faculty, George An, says he follows a chalk and talk approach, where he explains a concept to the class, writing key points on the board that students copy down.

Ryde Secondary College student Jasmine Virk and head of science George An. Credit: Dylan Coker

For students to process new information, they have to link it to prior information to draw meaning from it  learning something new is difficult, he said. If you blast them with PowerPoints, youre relying on them to summarise it themselves, and the vast majority would not.

The lessons must be engaging, he says, and hes not averse to the odd YouTube video to spark student interest. Im a big fan of technology, when it can be used to enhance learning and add something that couldnt be achieved via textbook or workbook.
First, it was Carrot Man. Then, it was the Darth Vader busker. Next, it was Water Bottle Girl. Now, its the Voice of Flinders Street Station.

Goooooood afternoon readers, meet Laurence Hewson  Melbournes latest local legend whose penchant for whimsical upbeat proclamations and joke-filled riffs has amused Flinders Street Station commuters and sparked a cult following on social media.

He can see you: Metro announcer Laurence Hewson says its easy to spot the camera phones popping up to capture his latest zinger. Credit: Chris Hopkins

Its those little things that make Melbourne the weird and wonderful place that it is, he says. If I managed to find myself with those people as my peers, Im honestly very happy with that.

The 34-year-old started permanently on the platform microphone as a station assistant just three weeks ago.
Documents unearthed in the multibillion-dollar row over a lucrative Pilbara iron ore deposit show Gina Rineharts Hancock Prospecting and Rio Tinto warned a syndicate of bankers that two mining dynasties may seek royalties, a West Australian court has heard.

Julie Taylor SC, acting for Wright Prospecting, said the extract from Hancock Prospecting and Rio Tintos 2005 deal to develop the Hope Downs deposit was proof Rineharts mining empire knew it was liable to share its spoils with the family of Lang Hancocks business partner Peter Wright.

Gina Rinehart is locked in a court battle with the descendants of her fathers business over royalties from a mining tenement in Western Australias iron-rich Pilbara region. Credit: Getty

The high-stakes civil trial  which has pitted Australias richest woman against Wrights descendants, engineer Don Rhodes company and her two eldest children  was previously told the risk of a royalties row was discussed at a pre-deal board meeting between Rinehart, Rios top deal-maker Philip Mitchell and former chief executive Sam Walsh.

It was also accounted for as a liability in the joint venture deal, a burden the two parties allegedly agreed to shoulder together.
It was only 48 hours after the World Trade Centre came down that Republican and Democratic leaders in Congress proposed sweeping anti-terrorism measures that became the Patriot Act. It increased the powers of the FBI and CIA to spy on Americans, seize phone and computer records, and to detain immigrants.

As the Albanese government rushes Australias parliament this week to approve preventative detention laws following the High Courts decision which outlawed indefinite immigration detention, MPs might have been well advised to slow down, let the hysteria subside and take a close look at what happened when the United States acted in haste after September 11, 2001.

American legislators enacted sweeping powers following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Credit: AP

The US Senate approved the 300-page law 45 days after 9/11, whiplash speed. Few members had read it. Another Congressional resolution, passed with only one no vote seven days after the attacks, gave the president sweeping powers to wage war on terrorism, and allowed for the capture and indefinite detention of so-called enemy combatants.

Together, the two measures created a surveillance regime of breathtaking scope that jeopardised citizens personal safety, all without public debate, Martin Baron writes in his new book, Collision of Power: Trump, Bezos, and the Washington Post. They permitted the detention of individuals unparalleled since Japanese Americans were rounded up and put into internment camps during World War II.
A new electronic payment system would help the government track who was getting paid for what  and more easily pick up fraud or overcharging  while providers would have to register under a new tiered regulatory system that is proportionate to types of services they deliver. A new role of navigator would be created to help connect people to the right services in an attempt to improve accessibility. The NDIS would also cover the cost of peoples application assessments, so they would not have to pay out of pocket. NDIS Minister Bill Shorten on Thursday. Credit: James Brickwood But a significant change will be supporting children, who currently make up almost half of NDIS participants, outside the scheme by delivering stronger support in schools and childcare centres  places the reviewers say are more appropriate than clinical settings. Plugging gaps in psychosocial services for people who have a disability because of mental illness will be another key area of focus.

In one of the major changes to eligibility, access criteria will also be tightened to make sure the scheme is used most by Australians with significant and permanent disabilities. Thousands of NDIS participants  in particular, children with autism level two or above  currently receive automatic access to the scheme through its diagnosis list, and remain on it for years. These lists were introduced during transition to the full scheme to accelerate access for some people ... However, they have led to a focus on medical diagnosis rather than function and disability-related support needs, the reviewers said. These lists can provide simple and transparent access to the scheme for some children. However, they also exacerbate inequity and delay support for children with similar levels of need who may not have a diagnosis on an access list, or lack the means to obtain a diagnosis if they dont meet the age criteria for developmental delay. We recommend removing automatic access under the access lists.

Jim Mullan, the chief executive of autism organisation Amaze, said it was an important change. Its a very useful piece of housekeeping and return to the original intent of the scheme, he said. The reviewers said access to the NDIS should be based on the impact disability had on a persons day-to-day life. Loading People applying for the NDIS will instead complete a detailed functional assessment that measures the effect of impairment on their lives and compares it to others. Their budgets will then be determined by a separate assessment, which moves away from the ambiguity of reasonable and necessary supports that are currently embedded in the scheme. Bonyhady and Paul said they wanted all Australians with disability to have better access to mainstream services as well as the new foundational supports within five years.

Our recommendations will support more children in existing services, such as maternal and child health, integrated child and family centres, early childhood education and schools  reducing the need for families to access the NDIS and leading to better long-term outcomes for children, the review said. Children with higher support needs would get additional, individualised support through the NDIS via an early intervention pathway. Participants would have two years before they were asked to meet any new access requirements, while children under seven should be able to stay on the scheme until they turn nine. People with a Disability president Nicole Lee said the five-year timeline was ambitious but she was confident it could be extended if it was in peoples best interests. She said foundational supports were a significant commitment. They dont just benefit people with a disability, they benefit people who sit outside the scheme [and] everyone in the community, she said.

Theres a lot of nuance that needs to be worked out, and it was really good to hear from Bill Shorten that the nuance of all these things will be [worked through] with the disability community. Loading Sam Bennett, director of the Grattan Institutes disability program, said he was concerned that the detail required to implement the reviews ideas wasnt there. Its a pretty high level set of conclusions and recommendations, and theres going to be a mountain more design work to even get to the point of being able to progress to implementation, he said. Coalition NDIS spokesperson Michael Sukkar said there was little detail about how the scheme would come down to an 8 per cent growth target by 2026.
Children with autism and developmental difficulties will receive support at school or in childcare centres under a new disability system that seeks to divert families from signing up to the burgeoning National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday struck a deal with states to create a new system to deliver what they are calling foundational supports to Australians with a disability outside the $42 billion NDIS.

But in a major concession to get premiers over the line, Albanese said the Commonwealth would cover half the costs of delivering the new disability services through state education and health systems.

The state and federal governments will split the costs of a new disability system run through schools and childcare, to ease pressure on the NDIS. Credit: James Brickwood

The reforms have become a pressing issue for the federal government as the NDIS cements as one of its top budget pressures. Forecasts show it is on track to cost more than $100 billion within a decade as higher-than-forecast numbers of children join the scheme because their families cant find help outside it.
A cross-party delegation of Australian politicians led by opposition foreign affairs spokesman Simon Birmingham will travel to Israel next week to express solidarity with the nation following the October 7 Hamas massacre.

Birmingham will be joined by Victorian Labor MPs Josh Burns and Michelle Ananda-Rajah as well as Liberal National MP Andrew Wallace and Victorian Liberal MP Zoe McKenzie.

Shadow foreign affairs spokesman Simon Birmingham. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

The MPs will become the latest Australian politicians to visit Israel since the shock Hamas attacks that claimed the lives of 1200 people, prompting Israel to launch a devastating bombardment on the Gaza Strip.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has rejected opposition calls to travel to Israel and Foreign Minister Penny Wong has not announced any plans to travel to the Middle East.
Naturalized U.S. Citizen Charged with Fraudulently Obtaining Citizenship by Failing to Disclose Role in Abuse of Prisoners

A naturalized U.S. citizen from Bosnia and Herzegovina was arrested yesterday in Morgantown, West Virginia, on criminal charges related to allegations that she lied to obtain U.S. citizenship.

According to the indictment, Nada Radovan Tomanic, 51, of West Virginia, allegedly served with the Zulfikar Special Unit of the Army of Bosnia and Herzegovina during the armed conflict in that country in the 1990s. Along with other Zulfikar Special Unit soldiers, Tomanic allegedly participated in the physical and mental abuse of Bosnian Serb prisoners targeted on the basis of their ethnicity, religion, and membership in a particular social group. The indictment alleges that, when applying for naturalization, Tomanic falsely represented that she had not persecuted anyone because of their religion, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion and had never committed a crime for which she had not been arrested.

Nada Tomanic has enjoyed the privileges of U.S. citizenship for more than 10 years  privileges she allegedly obtained by lying to cover up human rights abuses she committed in Bosnia and Herzegovina, said Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Departments Criminal Division. The Justice Department will vigorously enforce our nations immigration laws to ensure that the United States does not serve as a safe haven for persecutors.

It is alleged that this defendant shielded her past abuse of human rights and repeatedly lied during the immigration and citizenship processes to gain entry into this country and become a U.S. citizen, said U.S. Attorney Vanessa Roberts Avery for the District of Connecticut. I thank our investigative partners both here and in Bosnia and Herzegovina for ignoring the passage of time to ensure that justice is done.

Nada Tomanic allegedly participated in the abuse of Bosnian Serb prisoners and lied about it to the U.S. government decades later, said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBIs Criminal Investigative Division. The FBI, our international partners, and the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center are fervently committed to investigating human rights abuses no matter where or how long ago the atrocity occurred.

Tomanic is charged with two counts of unlawful procurement of naturalization. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on each count. A conviction would also result in the automatic revocation of Tomanics U.S. citizenship.

The FBI is investigating the case, with coordination provided by the Department of Homeland Securitys Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Office of Fraud Detection and National Security (FDNS), along with the FBIs International Human Rights Unit. The Justice Department thanks the Ministry of Justice of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Serbia, and the United Nations International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, which were instrumental in furthering the investigation.

Trial Attorney Elizabeth Nielsen of the Criminal Divisions Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Angel Krull for the District of Connecticut are prosecuting the case, with assistance from HRSP historians. The Justice Departments Office of International Affairs also provided assistance.

Members of the public who have information about human rights violators in the United States are urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALLFBI (1-800-225-5324) or through the FBIs online tip form at www.tips.fbi.gov/, or Homeland Security Investigations at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE (1-866-347-2423) or through ICEs online tip form at www.ice.gov/webform/ice-tip-form .

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This story has been published on: 2023-12-06. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Press Release

December 6, 2023 Bong Go calls for swift justice as he strongly condemns terrorist attack at Mindanao State University in Marawi City Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, in a manifestation speech at the Senate on Monday, December 4, vehemently condemned the recent terrorist attack at the Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City, which occurred during a mass on December 3. Go stressed the importance of unity in the face of terrorism, warning against allowing such acts to fuel sectarian hatred and division among Filipinos. "We know that the function of terrorism is to terrorize people. If we allow ourselves to be terrorized, terrorists win. As such, we must remain united and should not allow this crime to trigger sectarian hatred and further animosity among Filipino people," said Go. He recalled the resilience of Marawi's citizens in recovering from the 2017 siege, despite ongoing challenges, including insufficient compensation and reconstruction efforts. "Our brothers and sisters in Marawi have already emerged from the dark ashes of the Marawi Siege," said Go. "Hindi pa nga po talaga totally nakaka-recover ang mga kababayan natin. Tulad po ng nabanggit kanina, tuluy-tuloy pa rin po ang compensation, in fact, talagang kulang pa rin po ang compensation nila at hindi pa sila totally nakaka-recover doon. Ang mga gusali doon hindi pa naitatayo totally," he noted, reflecting on his visits to Marawi City with former president Rodrigo Duterte during the siege and the ongoing efforts to rebuild the city. "Nalulungkot po ako na ito na naman po, mayroon na naman pong mga teroristang nananakot. We must not let another terrorist act derail efforts of achieving long-term peace and development in Marawi City, where people of different faiths have historically co-existed in harmony and mutual respect," said Go. Along with his fellow senators, Go, vice chairperson of both the Senate Committees on National Defense and Public Order, urged law enforcement agencies to take decisive action against those responsible, calling for them to be punished to the full extent of the law. "Moreover, acts of terrorism on educational institutions like MSU must be condemned. Ensuring the safety of students in schools from terrorist threats is a paramount priority for fostering a secure learning environment," he said. Go expressed his heartfelt sympathies to the families of the victims: "Taus-puso akong nakikiramay sa mga pamilya ng mga namatayan at nasaktan sa pag-atakeng ito." "Masakit para sa sinumang magulang, kapatid, o anak, ang mawalan ng mahal sa buhay, lalo na kung dulot ng karahasan," he added. Concluding his speech, the senator underscored the community's desire for peace: "Mas marami pong mga kababayan natin na gustong mamuhay nang tahimik at walang karahasan. Magtulungan po tayo." Islamic State militants have claimed the explosion at MSU's Dimaporo Gym. This tragic event, coinciding with the First Sunday of Advent--a day of significant importance to Catholics--resulted in at least four fatalities with approximately 45 to 50 people injured. The Philippine National Police (PNP) has identified a "person of interest" named Khadafi Mimbesa, believed to be a bomb expert and sub-leader of the Dawlah Islamiyah Maute Group. He allegedly used an improvised explosive device in the attack. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) views the incident as a potential retaliatory attack in response to their recent successes against terrorist groups in Western Mindanao, including Maguindanao, Lanao, and Basilan. These operations resulted in the neutralization of key members of terrorist groups like Daulah Islamiya and Abu Sayyaf.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. I talked many times to the Prime Minister of Armenia, and asked him why they do not comply with their own commitments. Because, as you mentioned, the Article 9 clearly says that the connection between the western regions of Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan must be provided. And even it says who will provide control and security. This is what Mr. Pashinyan signed himself, and now, when he doesn't want any longer neither this route, nor Russian involvement in that, actually, it doesn't mean a lot from legal point of view, it is his commitment, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations, Trend reports.

We need to have these connections with Nakhchivan and then, through Nakhchivan with Turkiye. So, we agreed with the Iranian side to build a bypass. Yes, it will cost more, but it's an option and construction already started. Now, our governmental officials from both countries already made a groundbreaking ceremony there, in the village of Aghbend of the Zangilan district of the construction of the automobile bridge, and then will be a railroad bridge. That will be done, and what Armenia is losing - Armenia is losing a lot. First, this will not be only the road between Azerbaijan and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of Azerbaijan. This will be an international transportation corridor. A lot of cargoes will come from Central Asia. We expect a lot of cargoes to come from China.

The existing connections between Azerbaijan and Turkiye, as I said  Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railroad even expanded  will not be able to absorb all the cargoes. So, Armenia deprived itself from this and also deprived itself from opening of all other communications with Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijani President added.
The Minns government will rezone 400 metres of land surrounding 31 Sydney train stations to speed up the construction of tens of thousands of new homes, but developers building major high-rise projects will be given a two-year deadline to begin work.

In a win for developers who had urged the government to fast-track approvals to meet the daunting housing targets set under the National Housing Accord, areas surrounding train stations earmarked for medium density will not be required to undergo laborious rezoning applications.

Roseville is one of 31 heavy-rail stations around which the government plans to allow for greater density. Credit: Steven Siewert

But the quid-pro-quo arrangement will compel developers who pitch major high-rise projects to begin construction within two years in a bid to expedite construction and prevent land banking.

On Tuesday, the Herald revealed the government will rezone land around eight Metro and heavy-use rail stations to provide for 47,800 new homes by 2027, while also amending planning rules near another 31 train stations around Sydney, Wollongong and Newcastle as part of its signature housing push.
Im here aboard Ylang as part of a two-night Senses of Lan Ha cruise, operated by the Vietnamese-owned Heritage Line, having travelled the two hours or so by road from Hanoi to the departure point of the cruise at a dedicated wharf near the burgeoning Ha Long City. It was a decade or so ago that I was last in this high-profile part of Northern Vietnam when I took another two-night cruise around Ha Long Bay with Heritage Line, the same operator of this more recent Lan Ha Bay itinerary. Unlike Ha Long Bay, if my memory serves me well, where the sea is far more omnipresent, here to its south-east on Lan Ha Bay, the more congregated profusion of islands and islets makes the bay feel much more like a colossal, completely sheltered harbour. Priding itself on boutique boats like Ylang with the maximum degree of luxury but with a minimal number of passengers, Heritage Line has since expanded its operations into other parts of South-East Asia, including the Mekong River. A stateroom on the Ylang.

While there are just 10 cabins on this cruise boat there are only three passengers on this specific cruise. Thatd be me and a German medico and his wife, a nurse, and  wait for it  25 crew. The crew complement includes no less than five chefs, preparing superb contemporary-style Vietnamese cuisine the calibre, or better, of a five-star hotel back in Hanoi, or pretty much anywhere else for that matter and the meals compete with the scenery as a cruise highlight. If this was Germany and with so few passengers they would have cancelled such a cruise weeks ago, says the incredulous but appreciative doctor. Yes, not only are we fortunate to be aboard the Ylang and lavished with the most gracious of service, care and attention evident from the moment we board from the mainly youthful Vietnamese crew  this is also something of an auspicious time to be traversing these waters. Earlier this year, UNESCO expanded the boundaries of its declaration of Ha Long Bay as a World Heritage area back in 1994 to encompass the Cat Ba Archipelago, of which Lan Ha Bay forms an important part.

The critically endangered Cat Ba langur  there are thought to be less than 80 in total remaining. Credit: iStock This entire coastal region, spanning two whole provinces of Vietnam, consists of as many as 2000 islands and islets, including those spectacular sentinel karsts. Together they form one of the most stunning seascapes on Earth. Most of these precipitous outcrops are uninhabited, with Cat Ba (population 16,000) being the largest and by far most populous island in its eponymous archipelago. All up, the archipelago, on the south-eastern reaches of Lan Ha Bay, consists of 367 islands spanning 260 kilometres. It hosts no less than seven types of ecosystem, as well as one of the worlds most threatened primate species  the endemic Cat Ba langur, its numbers today estimated to less than 80 individuals. After lunch, in the blessedly cooler, latter part of the first of three or so days aboard Ylang, a tender from the boat anchors at a lagoon near Viet Hai, a small, isolated fishing village where the overall access is solely from sea.

Access to ancient Viet Hai from the jetty is either by bicycle or in an electric cart. The village is gloriously sheltered by Lan Ha Bay with the lofty peaks above forming a beautifully bucolic valley. As the road swarms with multinational backpackers on bikes, I pause not far from the entrance to the village to see a sizeable herd of water buffalo crossing the road (no rush, chaps) as these languorous beasts of burden move from one lush grassy paddock to another. From there, I pedal into the village, pausing for a cool drink before doing a circuit of the community. As the shadows of late afternoon close in around Viet Hai, the offer from a Ylang guide of a ride back to the wharf on one of the electric carts is gratefully accepted, with our bikes left to be collected later. A fish farm in Lan Ha Bay. Credit: iStock

By nightfall, theres a dazzling flotilla of dozens of illuminated boats  assembled for the evening in a line across the by now inky Lan Ha Bay  an unclipped twinkling gold necklace displayed inside some darkened glass cabinet. The next morning after a typically on-board generous and delectable breakfast, Ylang is under way again across Lan Ha Bay, eventually anchoring near Cat Ba Island to where were transferred by speedboat. From Gia Luan Pier, one of the islands few entry points, we explore the nearby Trung Trang Caves and, later, trek for an hour or so through the sweaty jungles of Cat Ba National Park, a designed biosphere reserve hosting more than 1500 species of plant life, 78 types of birds, 20 kinds of reptiles and 32 mammals As we stride through the forest we encounter several snakes and considerable plant life, but few if any of those stated birds and mammals, most particularly the elusive Cat Ba langur, occasionally glimpsed by Ylang passengers from kayaks. Kayakers exploring the bay off the Ylang.

The rest of my time on Lan Ha Bay dissolves into yet more multi-course meals, sunsets to rival a Miss Saigon billposter (sans the chopper) and, yes, extended, guilt-free naps in my stateroom, the size of a large hotel suite. On the final morning of my Senses of Lan Ha cruise I wake early to find that the latest perfectly framed vista from my stateroom is that of a lone, peppermint-coloured, red-roofed fishermans shack. Its bobbing gently on the bay like some little Asiatic aquatic house on the prairie against the rather intimidating backdrop of a precipitous, rockface that dwarfs both the dwelling and our luxury junk. Soon enough well head back to shore, the tranquillity of Lan Ha Bay momentarily disturbed again by another cautionary sounding of the skippers horn as we pass through that narrow passage again, back towards a more moribund mainland from where we began. Its been a blast. The writer travelled to Vietnam as a guest of Heritage Line, Singapore Airlines and Capella Hanoi.

Five more things to see and do Take a tai-chi class

Rise early and embrace the new day on Lan Ha Bay with a tai-chi class on the terrace deck of Ylang. Coffee and pastries are served in the dining room as the first rays of morning light appear. Relax with some meditation

After dinner of something delicious in Ylangs restaurant, head to the onboard spa for a singing bowl meditation, an ancient Tibetan ritual guided by an expert crew member. Learn about Vietnamese teas

Discover Vietnams traditional herbal teas and their health benefits in a special lesson aboard the boat (for non-tea drinkers the good news is that the espresso-style coffee aboard Ylang is excellent). Kayak in and around the bay

Ylang has its own collection of onboard kayaks for guest use in and around the waters of Lan Ha Bay, including paddles through caves, with swimming also on offer at a secluded beach away from other tour boats.
Boston: US President Joe Biden said that Hamas had repeatedly raped women and mutilated their bodies during its October 7 assault on southern Israel, citing survivors and witnesses of the attacks.

Speaking at a political fundraiser in Boston on Tuesday (Boston-time), Biden said accounts of unimaginable cruelty had been shared over the past few weeks.

Burnt out cars at the site of the Supernova Music Festival where hundreds of Israelis were massacred on October 7. Credit: Getty

Reports of women raped  repeatedly raped  and their bodies being mutilated while still alive, of womens corpses being desecrated, Hamas terrorists inflicting as much pain and suffering on women and girls as possible and then murdering them. It is appalling, Biden said.

The president called on international organisations, civil society and individuals to condemn sexual violence without exception.
PHILIPSBURG:--- A historic collaboration was formalized today with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of St. Maarten and the Collectivite de Saint-Martin. Minister Omar Ottley representing the Council of Ministers and President Louis Mussington, representing the respective entities, sealed the agreement at the Government building.

The participants, recognizing the critical need for equitable and resilient solutions in providing community drinking water on Saint Martin, have affirmed their commitment to collaborate on a groundbreaking project. The primary objectives include addressing challenges faced by technical and mechanical issues affecting water production and distribution by SAUR.

"When I heard about the water capacity challenges faced by our brothers and sisters on the northern side of the island, I felt it was prudent that we find a way to assist, as we are to be viewed as one island with one body and two heartbeats. I am grateful to Mr. Sanchez for agreeing to continue this long-awaited project, and to President Mussington for seeing it through and making it a reality." Said Ottely.

The collaboration will be spearheaded by N.V. G.E.B.E. and ETABLISSEMENT DES EAUX ET DE L'ASSAINISSEMENT DE SAINT-MARTIN (EEASM). GEBE, an electrical and water distribution corporation, will leverage its expertise to provide safe drinking water to the French side of the island, while EEASM, the designated representative of the Collectivite, will oversee water and sanitation services.

In a joint effort, the participants aim to support capacity building, sustainability, and project implementation to improve the distribution of community drinking water, addressing challenges posed by technical and mechanical issues affecting SAUR's operations.

Weather-related stresses, including the impact of Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, have underscored the vulnerabilities of existing systems. The participants acknowledge these challenges and commit to working together to provide safe drinking water to community residents, ensuring compliance with health regulations.

The Government of St. Maarten, dedicated to fulfilling Sustainable Development Goals, aims to ensure its population's access to a safe water supply and basic sanitation. This commitment aligns with the broader goals of improving overall health, and socioeconomic development, and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

As part of their collaborative efforts, the participants will address weather-related challenges by continuing infrastructure repairs and improvements to enhance sustainability and resilience. This MoU marks a significant milestone in fostering a resilient and reliable water supply for the communities of Saint-Martin.

Although the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and contract were signed today, the implementation process is expected to take place by February 2024. This timeframe allows both parties to have ample time to make the necessary operational preparations. The extra preparation period ensures that all logistical aspects, such as resource allocation, infrastructure development, and capacity building, can be effectively arranged. By allowing sufficient time for these preparations, it increases the likelihood of a successful and smooth transition when the project begins in February 2024.
~ Says theres no legal impediment for citizens ~

PHILIPSBURG:--- MP Rolando Brison on Monday raised a pressing concern regarding the withdrawal of services from St. Maarten by digital bank Revolut, apparently as a consequence of actions taken by local banks. MP Brison directed his question to the Minister of Finance, seeking intervention and clarity on the matter and expressing his apprehensions about the actions of local banks and the potential hindrance to local economic diversification.

It vexed the MP that the same banks, that offer no innovation of fintech services, are now obstructing opportunities for locals and stifling economic growth. He underscored the need for a more inclusive approach from local banks, urging them to actively contribute to the growth of e-commerce rather than impeding progress.

Brison acknowledged the prerogative of companies to make decisions about their operations, stating, "That's a company decision, and I would think anyone would have to respect it." However, he delved into the matter by highlighting the grievances of local residents who were informed by Revolute that the service would no longer be available to persons with addresses in St. Maarten.

This service is incorporated as a bank in countries like the United States, Canada, Singapore, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and also in Portugal, but their online banking services are available globally in any country that does not expressly forbid it by law. St. Maarten is legislatively one such country that does not legally forbid citizens from using foreign online banking, while the USA does have such restrictions. Benefits and features vary and include easy money management, travel perks, and investment opportunities.

Some users, Brison explained, in pursuit of understanding the abrupt decision, sought answers from Revolut's help desk. According to Brison, the responses indicated that commercial banks in St. Maarten had expressed complaints about Revolut, escalating the matter to the Central Bank. Allegedly, the pressure exerted on Revolut by local banks led to its decision to exit the local market.

The same banks, that have done absolutely nothing to help our local people get into e-commerce, are now complaining about alternate services and telling them they shouldnt be in St. Maarten. If the banks were taking the initiative to properly offer online international e-commerce for artists to use like musicians who want to sell their music online and collect it via a service like Spotify that would be one thing. But none of that is being offered, MP Brison said, adding that this latest action by the banks once again shows the system of banking on St. Maarten has continued to ignore innovations that should come from within.

Returning to the issue on Tuesday during the Central Committee meeting, MP Brison explained that in light of our current legal framework, as outlined in Article 2 of the banking oversight ordinance, it's essential to clarify that only banks physically established in Saint Martin are required to obtain a banking license from the Central Bank. Drawing a parallel with the Business License Ordinance, which applies similar rules to physical stores operating in St. Maarten, he said it becomes evident that online entities, like Amazon, facilitating transactions for citizens in St. Maarten, do not require a specific license to operate.

The existing law, he pointed out, that dates back to 1994, does not mandate online banking services to obtain a license to operate in St. Maarten. This legal perspective, as pointed out by MP Brison to Minister of Finance Ardwell Irion, is particularly crucial given the current circumstances where local banks are not offering comparable online services. Legally speaking, he stressed, there is no impediment for citizens of St. Maarten to subscribe to online banking services from external providers.

MP Brison emphasizes the importance of acknowledging this legal reality and encourages a welcoming stance towards such services. He asserts that until the time when local banks can match these offerings, there should be no obstruction to citizens utilizing these services. Brison advocates for updating legislation in line with the evolving financial landscape, ensuring a balanced approach that accommodates both the needs of the citizens and the growth of the local banking sector.

Brison argued that if there is a requirement for international banking services to obtain a license, it should be done transparently and fairly. Brison advocated for continued efforts, such as the Payment Services Act from the Central Bank, to regulate these entities and foster a conducive environment for financial innovation.

Brison further criticized local banks for their lack of initiatives in offering online international e-commerce solutions to the community. He emphasized the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs, artists, and small businesses in their efforts to engage in e-commerce and diversify the local economy.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Akhundov Huseyn, an Azerbaijani army serviceman held captive in Armenia, has been sentenced to life in jail, Trend reports, referring to Armenian media reports.

Armenia does not take any moves that would indicate that it wishes to pursue peace.

Huseyn Akhundov's sentence of 20 years in prison for killing a guard at the Zangezur copper and molybdenum facility on June 27 this year has been increased to life imprisonment.

Babirov Agshin Gabil (born in 2004) and Akhundov Huseyn Ahliman (born in 2003) of Azerbaijan went missing in April 2023 owing to poor visibility in unfavorable weather circumstances in the region of Shahbuz district of Azerbaijan's Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic bordering Armenia.

Later, it became known about the so-called 'trial' in Armenia against captured Huseyn Akhundov and Aghshin Babirov, as well as about the fact that the so-called 'decision' on the arrest of Aghshin Babirov was made.

Huseyn Akhundov, a soldier of the Azerbaijani army, is accused of allegedly killing a 57-year-old guard in Syunik district.

Agshin Babirov and Huseyn Akhundov are accused of 'illegally crossing Armenia's state border, carrying firearms and ammunition'.

According to a previously leaked film of Huseyn Akhundov's treatment in Armenian custody, the use of assault and torture against him is as apparent as day. Unfortunately, international organizations that are constantly talking about 'human rights,' as well as some Western states and Western politicians and heads of state who are tirelessly presenting themselves as defenders of human rights and freedoms, have yet to respond to the footage of the Azerbaijani soldier's torture.

The 'sentence' against Huseyn Akhundov is nothing more than another Armenian political power plot against Baku. In one of his recent statements, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan proposed exchanging Azerbaijani prisoners of war for Armenian prisoners of war held in Baku, despite the fact that Huseyn Akhundov and Agshin Babirov are not involved in any crimes and that in Azerbaijan's hands are Armenian war criminals who participated in the genocide of Azerbaijanis, those whose hands are stained with the blood of innocent people.

After making such a decision against the Azerbaijani prisoner, the Pashinyan government is attempting to force Baku to accept Yerevan's demand. However, the Armenian side should understand that Azerbaijan will demand this from Yerevan, just as it has previously restored justice on many other problems at the expense of its will and force.

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By Fabian Dawson

New Canadian Media

Ottawas diplomatic spat with New Delhi over the assassination of a Sikh leader in Surrey, B.C. is having a negative impact on the number of Indian international students wanting to come to Canada, a new survey suggests.

The survey of 1,000 international education agents in six countries also comes in the wake of an unsealed U.S. criminal indictment that details an alleged plot linking the Indian government to multiple assassinations in North America, including three in Canada.

Conducted through November 2023 by Academica and Worldwide Educonnect, the survey found Canadas brand position in India is weakening, which may be ominous given that many Canadian institutions are heavily reliant on this key sending market.

The survey involved education agents in six countries: India, Nigeria, Ghana, Nepal, Bangladesh, and the Philippines, according to the ICEF Monitor, a market intelligence resource for the international education industry.

Asked to what extent the deterioration in relations between India and Canada would affect their referrals to Canada this year, 61 percent of the responding Indian agents said it would have a slightly negative impact and another 30 percent anticipated a significant negative impact.

Nearly four in ten (37 percent) said they expected to see a moderate or significant impact for the January 2024 intake, and 30 percent expected at least some negative impact for the September 2024 semester.

Academica president Rod Skinkle recently shared the survey results at the Canadian Bureau for International Education conference in Vancouver. He said more than a third of the Indian agents felt there had been a significant shift in students preference for Canada as a result of the current diplomatic crisis, with most reporting that student demand was shifting in favour of Australia and the United Kingdom.

According to Germany-based International Consultants for Education and Fairs, there are close to two million Indians in Canada, representing 80 percent of Canadas South Asian population, and close to 6 percent of the total Canadian population.

Indians are the top source of immigration for Canada, with 118,095 immigrants in 2022 alone. By contrast, the second largest source is Chinese students (31,815).

Many Indians in Canada are international students: There were 320,000 Indian students with active study permits at the end of December last year, up 47 percent from 2021. Indian students accounted for nearly four out of every ten foreign students in Canada at the end of 2022.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau charged in September that India was behind the June 18 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and a leader in the separatist Khalistan movement. India has rejected the accusation.

The explosive allegations made in Parliament resulted in tit-for-tat expulsions of diplomats in both countries and has strained the relationship between Canada and India.

No charges have yet been laid in the Nijjar killing.

Last week, the U.S. Justice Department said it has charged Nikhil Gupta, 52, an Indian national, about a plot to assassinate a New York City-based lawyer who advocated for a Sikh sovereign state in northern India. Gupta allegedly worked alongside an Indian agent in the plot to target Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, an immigration attorney wanted in India for advocating the formation of an independent Sikh state called Khalistan.

The unnamed Indian government agency employee was described in the U.S. indictment as a Senior Field Officer with responsibilities in Security Management and Intelligence. He allegedly directed the assassination plot from India. He was to be paid $100,000 for the killing.

Gupta, allegedly involved in international drug and weapons trafficking, was arrested on June 30 in the Czech Republic and is being extradited to the U.S.

According to the indictment, Gupta told an undercover Drug Enforcement Administration agent, the day after Nijjars murder, that Nijjar was also the target and we have so many targets.

Pannun, the assassination target, is the general counsel for Sikhs for Justice, which is outlawed in India for its support for extremist and secessionist activities.

Said James Smith, FBI Assistant Director in Charge: Murder for hire is a crime out of a movie, but the plot in this case was all too real. The excellent teamwork of the law enforcement partners in this case exposed this brazen conspiracy and is why Nikhil Gupta finds himself in jail waiting to answer to these charges.

Trudeau told reporters in Ottawa that the news coming out of the U.S. underscores what weve been talking about from the very beginning, which is that India needs to take this seriously.

The Indian government needs to work with us to ensure that were getting to the bottom of this. This is not something that anyone can take lightly.

India said it has set up a high-level inquiry into all aspects of the matter, following Guptas arrest.

The World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) said the unsealed U.S. indictment contains many explosive revelations about the operations of the Government of India in the U.S. and reveals connections to Indias operations in Canada and the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

The Government of India is using criminal elements to target Sikhs in Canada and the U.S. and providing them with directions, logistics and money, said WSO President Danish Singh in a statement.

While Nikhil Gupta has been arrested, the full extent of the network that worked with him, including those in India, remains to be revealed. This network has ties to the Nijjar case. We call on Canadian authorities and law enforcement to bring those responsible for Nijjars assassination to justice as soon as possible and to identify those involved in the plot in India and elsewhere.

The Indian government responded to the U.S. allegations that an Indian agent attempted to assassinate a Sikh separatist on U.S. soil, stating that such a crime would be contrary to government policy.

Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson for Indias Ministry of external affairs said: The nexus between organized crime, trafficking, gun running, and extremists at an international level is a serious issue for the law enforcement agencies and organizations to consider, and it is for that reason that a high-level inquiry committee has been constituted and we will be guided by its results.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. We are in the active phase working with different law firms in order to bring to justice those who illegally excavated our natural resources, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations, Trend reoorts.

Now the situation in the newly liberated territories is in the process of assessment. There is a special team consisting of representatives of different governmental bodies, which now continue monitoring village by village, side by side evaluate what has been done, including the ecological damage. More than 60,000 hectares of trees have been cut. And this is the analysis based on the satellite images - before and after - and also on our physical monitoring. Of course, big concern is with respect to the transboundary rivers pollution  particularly the river, which goes through Zangilan, Okhcuchay. And sometimes the color of the river becomes yellow and this is really an ecological disaster, the head of state underscored.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. I think for Armenia there are two options now; either to start immediately at their own expense or with some European funds money to build the necessary 42 kilometers of railroad, which will be considered as a sovereign territory. We don't have any reservations with respect to their sovereignty, but there must be an easy access from mainland Azerbaijan to Nakhchivan. And there should be no customs duties, no checks, no border security, when it goes from mainland to Nakhchivan. When it goes from other destination from the Eastern Caspian region to Armenia or even, yes, okay, of course, you can have all these customs duties as in any other country. But from Azerbaijan to Azerbaijan, there should be no checks, no interference, and this is our legitimate right, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations.

Actually, I can tell you that one of the issues, which we discussed in Brussels at the meeting organized by President Michel, was to use experience of the Russian Kaliningrad railroad connection. So, all that possible, it was just Armenia, which didn't want. They wanted to block us from this access. When they realized that we don't need it any longer, they started to complain. Even, we got some very strange statement from the U.S. State Department officials that the United States will not allow this to happen, if it doesnt go through Armenia. So, what can I say? We wanted to do it through Armenia for three years. If you want to do it through Armenia, go and tell your new Armenian friends. So, how can you interfere into our relations with Iran? You say we will not allow it to be built through. How you will not allow? So, these irresponsible statements actually do not serve any good service to those who articulate them. Of course, it seriously deteriorates the stability and predictability in the region, including the connectivity projects, the head of state underlined.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Azerbaijan is ready to host COP29. We have a lot to report, said President Ilham Aliyev as he addressed the Forum titled "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges" co-organized by ADA University and the Center of Analysis of International Relations, Trend reports.

There are certain problems in getting the conference to Baku. Hopefully, very soon we can find a good resolution to this problem. And that will be another important step towards peace, the Azerbaijani President added.
Lawmakers preparing for a fight over Gov. Ned Lamonts push to phase out the sale of fully gas-powered cars by 2035 have been confronted with a potential conundrum: what happens if they choose to do nothing?

That topic came up Monday night in a virtual caucus among House Democrats, according to House Speaker Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, who said his response was to warn members that they risked unintended consequences by failing to adopt the latest timeline for vehicle electrification set by California regulators.

According to Ritter, those consequences could come in the form of orders from federal regulators to slash other sources of carbon emissions  from power plants to industry and solid waste disposal  in order to clean up the states notoriously polluted air.

You either do it through tailpipe emissions or you do it another way, Ritter said. Weve got federal laws to clean up our air, so weve got to do something.

In addition to federal air quality standards, Connecticut has also set ambitious goals for reducing carbon emissions by 2050. Advocates say those targets will become nearly impossible to meet if lawmakers do not address the states biggest source of emissions: cars and trucks.

Were becoming an island, said Samantha Dynowski, the director of Sierra Club Connecticut, adding that other states with similar goals have already moved to adopt the California standards. It puts pressure everywhere else.

Under federal law, states are given the choice of following either Californias lead in adopting vehicle emissions standards, or more lax rules set by the federal Environmental Protection Agency.

Connecticuts decision to follow Californias tougher limits on tailpipe emissions dates back to 2004, when those regulations enjoyed broad bipartisan support among lawmakers seeking to address persistent concerns about poor air quality.

As the standards have evolved from a focus on limiting smog-forming pollutants to combating climate-altering greenhouse gasses, Republicans have voiced growing skepticism over the wisdom of following the lead of regulators in Sacramento.

I dont think we should be following the California standards anymore, said House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora, R-North Branford, one of the leaders of the opposition effort. Their proposals are just too extreme.

Those concerns came to a head last week, as administrative regulations to formally adopt Californias new timeline for phasing out the sale of traditional new gas-powered vehicles failed to gain traction in a bipartisan review committee of state legislators, prompting Lamont to pull the regulations.

Instead of taking the traditional regulatory path, Lamont and legislative leaders announced last week that they would instead draft legislation to formally adopt the California regulations. That could happen either during the lawmaker's annual session kicking off in February, or during a special legislative session.

Some advocates, however, said that the hiccup in adopting the regulations has put the state in a legal quandary.

Theres nothing in the regulations to address this situation, said Shannon Laun, the state chapter director for the Conservation Law Foundation. Now that we are at a standstill and have not updated these regulations, we are technically out of compliance with state law.

In a statement Tuesday, a spokesman for the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection said that the current phase of Californias vehicle emission regulations are due to expire with model year 2025 vehicles. Should Connecticut lawmakers decline to adopt the updated regulations by that point, the state would revert to federal standards.

While the federal regulations are among the most forceful approaches ever taken by the EPA to improve air quality, they lag several years behind the timeline set by California.

For example, while the California rules require manufacturers to sell at least 80 percent zero-emission or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles by 2032, the federal rules require only about two-thirds of vehicles sold that year to meet the same standards.

In order to address some of the common concerns about vehicle affordability and range anxiety, Ritter has even pitched a more tentative approach toward adopting the California regulations that have been floated in other states. Such an approach would allow Connecticut to follow along for the first several years of the phase out, while allowing lawmakers to reassess the viability of that approach before the strictest measures take effect in 2035.

Candelora, however, said that such a hybrid model could run afoul of the federal law. Instead, he said lawmakers should rescind their 2004 decision to follow California  even if it means battling with the EPA over other regulations.

The reality is that we are an eastern state, we are subject to the pollution that blows across America, Candelora said. Thats a fight Im willing to have.

Ritter declined to evaluate the odds of Democrats eventually pushing through legislation adopting the California regulations, noting that supporters were still in the process of gathering answers to common questions and concerns. House Democrats will likely meet again later this month, while their counterparts in the Senate have yet to hold a caucus meeting on the issue.

Theres a path to getting there, the Speaker said Tuesday. But were on the 10 yard line, and we have 90 yards to go.

Some of the biggest threats facing the legislation early on, he added, have been misconceptions around the extent of the California regulations, which would not affect the sale of used cars. But even those who prefer the option of filling up with gas would still have the option of purchasing a qualifying plug-in hybrid once the regulations go into full effect in 2035.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Zangilan is an absolutely unique place, said Polish political scientist and candidate for political sciences, Jakub Korejba during his visit to Zangilan in Azerbaijan, Trend reports.

"Zangilan is an extremely unique place, and it was critical for each of the conference experts to visit Zangilan. People came from all over the world, including 60 experts from 30 different nations, including India, Argentina, and the United States. Very significant events are taking place in Zangilan, and in Azerbaijan's liberated areas in general, not only on a local scale, but also in terms of international law, which has been violated for 30 years. This is significant in terms of maintaining global order," he noted.

According to him, the world is full with conflicts, refugees, exiles, and a variety of other things that make it appear dreadful.

"But something unusual happened here: the worst was abandoned, and it was discovered that the good in this world is also conceivable. Azerbaijan has demonstrated that it is possible to reverse unfavorable trends and establish new, positive ones. Azerbaijan's experience illustrates that with political will, even the most difficult challenges can be overcome, as President Ilham Aliyev demonstrates. As a political scientist, I value strategic patience. It is vital to select the appropriate time. We can see how countries make errors. Azerbaijan was able to act appropriately and at the appropriate time," he added.

High-ranking foreign experts, state officials, and representatives of international think tanks visited Zangilan on December 5.

They took part in the forum "Karabakh: Back Home After 30 Years. Accomplishments and Challenges". The delegation included 60 representatives from 30 countries.

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The Government quietly took the conversion therapy ban off the table, did you know that? Once a leader in LGBTQ+ rights, we find ourselves right down as 17th on the list of Europes safest cities for the queer community and our trust in our police and government is at a low point. Too often were hearing reports on how the police were too slow to the mark. We see extremes of three police vans turning up, say, to arrest someone drunk and disorderly, and on the other end, nothing more than a crime reference number for more aggressive reports. I respect the police force, let me get that straight  but we need reason to confidently believe in them providing us safety again.
Xbox says it will gradually release the titles in the coming weeks, so make sure you keep an eye on the Xbox store for the latest arrivals. They'll be available on Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One consoles.
Swift was picked from a group of nine finalists which included the King, Barbie, and the Hollywood strikers, after screenwriters and actors in the US went on strike earlier in the year, later resuming work following tentative agreements.
We have lots of groups of friends who dont cross over a lot, so we dont tend to mix them up. I find you have to referee new people and it all gets a bit too network-y. Some people curate some really chic playlists, but we listen to the cheesiest, naffest pop music.
Another pleasant surprise came in the form of former cast member Gillian Anderson, who returned to The Crown's red carpet years on from her portrayal of Margaret Thatcher in The Crown season four. Anderson, who wore a polka-dot mesh bodice with a playful tulle skirt  also happens to be the long term partner of Peter Morgan, The Crown's creator, so that probably helped swing her attendance.
Chris Johnson, 82, who worked on the roof at Smithfield Market in London, as an apprentice in the 60s, walks across the refurbished copper clad Poultry Market roof, where the new Museum of London will be rehomed on the former meat market site. As part of the project, the City of London Corporation have been undertaking some works to the existing site in process of handing them over to the Museum of London. Picture date: Wednesday December 6, 2023.

PA Wire
At London tube stations, licenced buskers have acquired success, attracting audiences of 3.5 million Tube passengers daily, according to Transport for London (TfL). They include Ed Sheeran, Jessie J, Bob Geldof and Katherine Jenkins who have all performed in the underground at some stage. TfL recently commemorated 20 years of its live busking scheme in November. Auditions for the new year will take place in early 2024 for Busk in London, a programme supported by the Mayor of London.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. We had our first productive discussion with President Ilham Aliyev about the future of US-Azerbaijani relations, says US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs James O'Brien in the social network account X (Twitter), Trend reports.

"The establishment of long-term, dignified peace in the region will create historic opportunities," he emphasized.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs James O'Brien on December 6.

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That is why we remain unwavering in our support of Ukraine. If we allow Putins aggression to succeed, it will embolden those who challenge democracy and threaten our way of life. We cannot let them prevail.
She continued: Ravec should have considered the impact that a successful attack on the claimant would have, bearing in mind his status, background and profile within the royal family - which he was born into and which he will have for the rest of his life - and his ongoing charity work and service to the public.
The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) said its investigators carried out a dawn raid at a site in London used by AOG Technics and arrested one person who remains in custody.
How you can help

10 could provide a nourishing meal for a Londoner every day for a month

20 could provide a duvet and pillow to a young person helping them sleep at night

50 could contribute to a new school uniform for a child fleeing with a parent from an abusive relationship

100 could provide 400 meals for families at a local community centre

300 could pay for all thats needed by a family expecting a baby, including new cot, mattress and pram

1,750 could get a truck packed with enough food for 7,000 meals
The gunman was a professor who had unsuccessfully sought a job at the school, a law enforcement official with direct knowledge of the investigation told The Associated Press. He previously worked at East Carolina University in North Carolina, said the official, The attack was the worst shooting in the city since October 2017, when a gunman killed 60 people and wounded more than 400 after opening fire from the window of a room at Mandalay Bay casino.
The son of the Kenyan photographer Mohamed Amin, Salim Amin, said of his father's experience with Ahmed: "I remember my dad telling me how they were charged by Ahmed as they took what turned out to be the last pictures of the King. They had been following him on foot all day and, when his patience with them eventually ran out, he charged the camera team.
When asked if she would have changed anything, Nella replied: I don't think so... no, I don't think there is anything that I would change  because honestly with me, what you see is what you get.
She said: No, there have not been [any approaches to her or her team]. No one has asked me, but I'm open to it.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. The Global Journalism Council's (GJC) Foreign Media Department has denounced the previous day's pressure on Azerbaijani journalist Aygun Hasanova in France, Trend reports.

Elshad Eyvazli, chairman of the Council's Foreign Media Assembly, told AZERTAJ that such behavior toward a journalist is strongly condemned.

"We strongly oppose all forms of pressure and violence directed against journalists. We ask the French government to explain the pressure applied to Aygun Hasanova, an employee of the official Azerbaijani media company AZERTAJ who was deployed to New Caledonia," he said.

"In a country like France, obstruction of professional journalistic activity is contrary to international rights and freedoms. When something like this happens in one of the world's political centers, it is disappointing for journalists around the world. We consider and condemn the detention of the journalist at the police station and her deportation from the country as a restriction of the journalist's right to access information," the statement emphasizes.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. The Milli Majlis (Parliament) of Azerbaijan has proposed to include special sections related to West Azerbaijan in history textbooks, Trend reports.

MP Sevinj Huseynova made such a suggestion during the parliament's sessions on West Azerbaijan.

She stated that more knowledge on the subject should be provided to the younger generation.

"In this regard, the inclusion of special sections on West Azerbaijan in history textbooks is critical. It is critical to teach this topic in secondary schools and higher education institutions," Huseynova said.

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Former PM Florin Citu showed up on Wednesday at the National Anti-corruption Directorate (DNA) headquarters, where prosecutors will announce that he has been charged with abuse of office in the case concerning the purchase of vaccines against COVID-19, in which the damage would be over 1 billion euros.

Upon entering the DNA headquarters, Florin Citu refused to answer journalists' questions, but promised to give details on his way out.

Currently a senator, Florin Citu was stripped of his immunity following a Senate decision on 29 November.

The vaccines case also targets former health ministers Vlad Voiculescu and Ioana Mihaila.

According to DNA, on 17 June 2020, the European Commission launched the European Strategy on speeding up the development, manufacturing and distribution of vaccines against COVID-19 proposing a centralised approach for the procurement of viable vaccine options and which involved the EC negotiating advance purchase agreements with manufacturers on behalf of member states.

The vaccines were to be distributed to EU member states according to population numbers, and the decision on priority vaccination of certain categories of the population was up to the member states, the DNA mentions.

Investigators maintain that member states had the possibility to use, within 5 days of notification, an "opt-out" clause, so they were not bound to pay any contribution for vaccines they decided not to request.

"In the present case, in the above-mentioned context, aspects related to the way in which, between January and May 2021, members of the Romanian Government, in violation of the legal provisions and without any documents/analysis proving the necessity of the purchase, contracted a much higher number of vaccine doses (Pfizer and Moderna), when the number of people eligible for vaccination communicated by the Romanian State to the European Commission was 10.7 million," explain the prosecutors.

According to the DNA, although the vaccine doses contracted prior to 1 January 2021 (37,588,366 doses) would have been sufficient to vaccinate more than 23 million people, two of the three persons against whom the requests for criminal prosecution are issued, benefiting from the help of the third, would have negotiated and ordered the purchase of an extra 52,805,690 doses of vaccine, worth a total of 1,005,498,687 euros, plus VAT, which constitutes a loss to the state budget. AGERPRES
The National Bank of Romania (BNR), as of 7 December 2023, will put into circulation for numismatic purposes a silver coin dedicated to 100 years since the establishment of the 'King Ferdinand I' National Military Museum.

According to a Central bank release, the obverse of the coin depicts the central part of the 'King Ferdinand I' National Military Museum in Bucharest, the inscription 'ROMANIA' in an arc, the coat of arms of Romania, the face value '10 LEI' and the year of issue '2023'.

The reverse depicts the first headquarters of the National Military Museum (Palace of the Arts in Bucharest), King Ferdinand I's portrait and the inscriptions 'MUZEUL MILITAR NATIONAL', 'REGELE FERDINAND I' and '100 ANI'.

The silver coins, housed in transparent plastic capsules, will be accompanied by leaflets featuring a presentation of the numismatic issue, as well as by certificates of authenticity, in Romanian, English and French. Each certificate of authenticity bears the signatures of the Governor and the Chief Cashier of the National Bank of Romania.

The maximum mintage is 5,000 silver coins.

The selling price for the silver coin, including the leaflet and the certificate of authenticity, is lei 490.00, VAT excluded.

The silver coins dedicated to 100 years since the establishment of the 'King Ferdinand I' National Military Museum are legal tender on the territory of Romania.

The coins will be put into circulation, for numismatic purposes, through the regional branches of the National Bank of Romania in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Constanta, Craiova, Iasi and Timisoara.

AGERPRES
Large companies in the area of information technology, which want to expand their business in Eastern Europe, will find excellent opportunities in Romania, Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu said at the meeting he had on Tuesday with representatives of Google, during his working visit to the United States.

According to a press release sent to AGERPRES, specialists with solid training in IT are a strong asset for companies in this area who want to come to Romania.

In addition, Romania now offers the opportunity for major investments in data centers and cloud services, as the Government has made digital reform and the transfer of state IT systems to the cloud a priority in the public administration reform, the source said.

"The government has committed to make operational the government cloud and we will work together with experts and technology industry companies to achieve this. I will also encourage Romanian firms and private companies to opt for these cloud solutions, because they represent an important competitive advantage in an increasingly competitive market," said Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu.

In addition to collaboration on cloud services, the PM said that Romania is extremely interested in identifying and developing cybersecurity projects, as the country has one of the most advanced cybersecurity legislations in Europe.

Ciolacu also said that Romania benefits from the status conferred by the EU and NATO membership and, in the near future, the OECD membership, thus offering a predictable business environment based on rules guaranteed by membership in these organisations.

At the same time, investment in Romania can represent a bridgehead for companies interested in accessing the European market or other regional markets, such as the Republic of Moldova or Ukraine, says the Government.

"I know that Google's policy is to encourage the use of renewable energy to power data centres and this is another area where we meet, because we also support the use of clean energy, we are making efforts to decarbonise and produce green energy," said Marcel Ciolacu.

In a Facebook post, Ciolacu said that Google representatives told him that Romania has "a huge human resource" in the IT area, "Romanian specialists being among the best rated worldwide."

''I am convinced that, using their talent and Google's top expertise, we will manage to start the most ambitious projects in the new technologies area. Moreover, we will give a clear signal to other large IT companies that want to expand in Eastern Europe that here, in Romania, they find excellent opportunities for business development!," Ciolacu wrote.

Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu is on a working visit to the United States of America - in Washington D.C. and New York - together with a government delegation and had meetings with senior American officials - Lloyd Austin, U.S. Secretary of Defense, Antony Blinken, Secretary of State, U.S. Department of State, Jennifer Granholm, U.S. Secretary of Energy - as well as with representatives of major American companies.

Prime Minister Ciolacu's visit will continue with meetings with representatives of Jewish associations, as well as with Antonio Guterres, Secretary General of the United Nations, and Dennis Frances, President of the UN General Assembly. AGERPRES
Illustrator and designer Taylor Tuteur, who known as Tay to most people and uses they/them pronouns, always knew they wanted to study art. Growing up in Denver, their elementary school art teacher, Mrs. Cahn, encouraged their talents early. In high school another art teacher, Mr. Stallings, motivated their explorations in fine art with paint, pastels and charcoal.

The ever-practical Tuteur liked the fine arts but chose a practical route after a visit to Washington University. They got interested in graphics, loved the studio and knew they could make a living in graphics and communications. Even though they graduated at one of the worst possible times to find a job  in 2018  they persisted and found ways to make art work in their life.

Creating connections  Tuteur found work in coffee shops, restaurants and retail and turned that familiarity with the businesses to advantage. I've been lucky to partner with business where I've worked," they say. Sump, Pizzahead, Urban Matter, Gelateria  they served but also used skills to create merchandise and graphics for them.

The connections they made endured. I worked in the service industry for the last five years before I started my full-time job at the library, they say. When I worked at the Gelateria Coffee Company in 2021, I became friends with folks on South Grand."

Even after the store changed ownership in 2022, Tuteur remained connected. Sam and Dylan, the new owners, were looking through an old Instagram account and found a box design I had submitted for a contest. They loved it so much they reached out to me and bought the rights. Then they commissioned me to design a sticker and a T-shirt for them, too, they say.

Carrying the message  Tuteurs illustration work took a new turn through their connections with Liz Kramer, one of their faculty advisers for Washington Universitys Design for America chapter, when they created editorial illustrations for the Public Design Bureau. Today, more and more magazines, websites and publications add editorial illustrations. Tuteur delivered the goods for the blog posts of the Public Design Bureau in the Fall 2021.

Liz was one of the founders there. I created illustrations for each of the three different articles they published at that time. These are definitely more conceptual pieces rather than a literal representation. I read the articles ahead of time, picked out the important things to highlight, and worked from there, they say.

Critters he has known and drawn  Tuteur draws their popular pet portraits in a strong illustrative style that imparts great character to their subjects. Im not trying to be super-realistic in these portraits. I am not in the fine arts realm now, so Im leaning into the digital quality in my work.

"It's a style that developed because I was making so many pet portraits. A lot of people say You really got their energy and that makes me happy.

Sometimes I get requests for atypical animals, which is always fun. A friend commissioned me to do a portrait of a llama for her because her parents have a llama farm  that was unique, they say. One of their favorite portraits was for a friend whose pet rat literally hung out in a pineapple planter. I love that little rattie."

Diversity, justice, and peace  Tuteur consciously works on diversity and inclusion in their projects as representation does matter. He works with a group of artists, Friends for Good, who collaborated on a poster with Proper Cannabis to raise funds for the Last Prisoner Project.

The project helps folks who have been sentenced to prison sentences for a marijuana conviction to get earlier releases or parole, Tuteur says. I love to work on positive things.

The positive vibe of a public library  Tuteurs full-time job at the library has also helped them stay in tune with values. I think working on a team to help people understand our programs has shown me how important it is to be clear with my work, they say. We communicate with people in meaningful ways. Seeing the impact our work has on peoples lives is amazing. Im working in an open and positive studio, which also very lucky for me.

Future plans, maybe a big-screen debut  I am a huge movie buff, so my roommate and I decided to watch one movie each day this year. Ive consumed a lot of movies. I want to make more movie-based illustrations in the coming year  there will be new work on me my table this year at shows and markets. Coming soon to an art show near you  Tay Tuteur takes on the movies. Stay tuned.

Taylor Tuteur

Age  27

Family  Tuteur lives with their roommate, Sebastian Hitzelberger, and two cats, Magic Brian, a gray tabby, and Mocha Bean, a long-haired brown tortiseshell cat. Tuteurs mother, Shelley Tuteur, resides in their hometown of Denver.

What they make  Tuteur works full-time as part of a four-person graphic design team for the St. Louis County Library system. They also create and sell personal works that include small stickers, cards, posters, pins and more. Theyve also captured favorite St. Louis landmarks, parks, architecture and local oddities for subject matters.

Where to buy  Find their designs locally at these brick-and-mortar stores: Urban Matter, Cementage and in the gift shops of the Missouri History Museum and Tower Grove Park. Tuteur also sells online through their Etsy store and often gets inquiries for custom work through their Instagram account. They also set up a table at local markets, art fairs, and community events. Look for show schedules on their website and on Instagram. Website: taylortuteur.com

How much  Small stickers, cards, pins and miscellaneous goods range from $2 to $15. Design prints sell for $30 while individual house and pet portraits range from $100 to $125.
The Post-Dispatch, on Dec. 6, 1903, noted the "dismantling" of a home where William Clark (of the Lewis and Clark expedition) was said to have lived.

"The claim is not fully substantiated," the newspaper wrote.

After Clark returned from his famous exploration, he was the governor of Missouri when it was still a territory (he lost the state's first gubernatorial election to Alexander McNair). He was also the Superintendent of Indian Affairs.

The newspaper noted: "His home at Main and Vine streets was one of the most elaborate places in St. Louis in the early days. It is possible that the old house now being dismantled might have been a country place occupied by Gov. Clark during the summer."

The home being torn down was at Union Boulevard and Natural Bridge Road. Main Street is now First Street. Vine used to be a block south of Washington.

Clark died in 1838, at 68, in St. Louis. He was buried first at the farm of his nephew, John O'Fallon (the name sake for two local cities). His body was later moved, along with several family members, to Bellefontaine Cemetery. The current memorial there was built in 1904.
Joe Holleman Political correspondent/columnist Follow Joe Holleman Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley is stepping on the gas to gain compensation for people exposed to radioactive waste in the St. Louis area.

This week, Hawley has been front and center in Washington to talk about his efforts to get local sites included in federal laws.

We seem to have unlimited sums of money to pay defense contractors and give to foreign countries, Hawley told The Hill this week. Can we not make whole the people of this nation who have been poisoned by their own government?

To boost Hawleys focus on the issue, the activist group Just Moms STL, including co-founders Dawn Chapman and Karen Nickel, went to Washington to speak with lawmakers.

Also along were state Rep. Tricia Byrnes, R-Wentzville, and Christen Commuso of the Missouri Coalition for the Environment.

At issue is the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA), which compensates those exposed to radiation from atomic testing or uranium mining.

The law covers people who were residents of Utah, Nevada and Arizona at the time of nuclear testing and uranium mining during World War II. But it does not cover New Mexico, site of the 1945 Trinity atomic bomb test, or Missouri.

In St. Louis, Mallinckrodt Chemical Works processed uranium ore at its downtown plant under contract to the Manhattan Project, which developed the atomic bomb.

Some of Mallinckrodts waste was stored at sites near the airport in North County where it eventually contaminated areas along the Coldwater Creek watershed; some of that waste was later taken to and buried at West Lake Landfill in Bridgeton.

In Weldon Spring, some people who developed cancers blamed exposure to Mallinckrodts uranium processing there from 1957 to 1966.

In July, the U.S. Senate approved Hawley and U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Lujans amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act, adding sites in Missouri, New Mexico, Idaho, Montana, Guam and Colorado to RECA. The amendment also extended the act for 19 years.

The law allows residents of eligible areas to apply for compensation if their medical condition has been directly linked to nuclear radiation exposure.

The Senate amendment was not included in the U.S. Houses version of the legislation, even though U.S. Rep. Cori Bush, D-St. Louis, has been vocal about needing to compensate local victims.

Hawley said that if the expanded sites are not included in the final legislation, it would be a huge mistake ... and also frankly a great moral failure.

Hes threatened to vote against the defense bill if the amendment isnt included.
Joe Holleman Political correspondent/columnist Follow Joe Holleman Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

U.S. Rep Nikki Budzinski, D-Springfield, continues her working ways on the House Committee on Veterans Affairs.

Earlier this week, the Illinois congresswoman secured the committees unanimous backing to reform existing laws and make it easier for veterans to secure careers in science, health care and technology.

The legislation was introduced by Budzinski after a study by the Wounded Warrior Project found employment to be significant challenges facing female veterans.

When folks put their lives on the line to serve our country, they deserve our support to find a good paying job when they return home, Budzinski said.

Her proposed reforms would eliminate some bureaucratic requirements and make existing scholarships more accessible.

The legislation has been endorsed by several veterans organizations, including the Wounded Warrior Project, Disabled American Veterans, AMVETS and the American Legion.

In this first term in Congress, Budzinski has focused on several veterans issues and last month held a town hall meeting at the Collinsville VFW post. Her district includes parts of St. Clair and Madison counties.
ST. LOUIS COUNTY  A Florissant man is accused of running a fake tow business scheme designed to cover up stealing at least four vehicles and selling them for scraps in St. Louis County.

Rodney Lewis, 39, of Florissant, was charged Nov. 30 with four counts of stealing a motor vehicle in connection to one vehicle illegally towed from a Circle K gas station and three cars towed without permission from apartment complex parking lots.

St. Louis County police were first called to a Circle K at 5215 Lucas & Hunt Road on Jan. 23 when a store employee reported that Lewis towed her 2005 Ford Explorer SUV from the lot while she was working. The employee told police she tracked her car down to a salvage yard where she found Lewis and convinced him to tow her SUV back to the Circle K. Lewis agreed and the gas station employee called the police.

While police were investigating the tow, another woman approached officers to report that Lewis had towed her 2004 Dodge Ram pickup a few days earlier from the parking lot of the Lucas Hunt Village apartment complex. Lewis told the owners boyfriend that the leasing office requested the tow, but the leasing office denied it, police wrote in charging documents. The owners boyfriend recorded a video that, charges say, shows Lewis towing the pickup from the lot at 7217 Burrwood Drive near Normandy.

St. Louis County police soon made the connection to two other nearby apartment complex car thefts: A 1999 Oldsmobile Bravada stolen from a nearby apartment complex parking lot earlier the same day at the Circle K theft and a 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer stolen in November 2022 from a complex lot in the 5300 block of Gladstone Place.

Surveillance video showed Lewis towing the TrailBlazer, court documents say. Police got a search warrant for Lewis phone data, which they say showed Lewis was in the area of all four thefts.

Lewis was arrested at the Circle K and told police he had a towing business, but police say he didnt have the licenses required for tow businesses by state law with St. Louis County or with any nearby city.

Lewis told police he was working with a man named Rich who would identify abandoned vehicles on parking lots, court documents say. Lewis claimed that Rich had permission to tow the vehicles from property owners.

He told police he then sold the vehicles to a salvage yard and shared the profits with Rich, charging documents say.

Lewis admitted to officers that he towed the Dodge Ram and the Ford Explorer from the Circle K, but he said he didnt remember towing the other two vehicles from the apartment lots, according to charging documents.

Lewis was issued a summons to appear in court on Jan. 9 in the case.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. On December 6, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev made a phone call to President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Zhaparov, Trend reports.

During the telephone conversation, President Ilham Aliyev conveyed his sincere congratulations and best wishes to Sadyr Zhaparov on the occasion of his birthday, and wished him good health and success in his presidential activities.

The Kyrgyz President thanked President Ilham Aliyev for the attention and congratulations.

The head of state recalled his meetings with the President of Kyrgyzstan both in Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan, noting that the discussions conducted during these meetings gave a significant impetus to the expansion of friendly and brotherly relations based on mutual trust and support, and the development of the strategic partnership.

During the telephone conversation, the two presidents hailed the successful cooperation between Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan within the SPECA, the Organization of Turkic States and other international organizations.
JEFFERSON CITY  The former acting mayor of a small town in Missouris Bootheel region has been charged with eight counts of felony stealing in connection with the disappearance of more than $66,000 in taxpayer funds.

Jessica Roach, who served as mayor of Holland from 2018 to 2021, is scheduled to appear Dec. 18 in a Pemiscot County courtroom to address the charges.

The court case was expected after a report in June by Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick showed Roach failed to deposit money to pay city utility bills in city accounts. A review of Roachs personal bank accounts noted large cash deposits totaling the same amount that wasnt placed in city coffers, the audit said.

Fitzpatrick called her actions an egregious breach of public trust.

The criminal case was delayed after Pemiscot County Prosecuting Attorney Steven Horton declared a conflict of interest. Nicholas Jain, the prosecutor in neighboring Dunklin County, will oversee the case.

A warrant issued in the case shows Roach is charged with eight counts of stealing over $750.

The audit of the Pemiscot County town of about 190 residents near the Arkansas border began under former state Auditor Nicole Galloway following a request by the city council.

During her tenure, Roach did not appoint aldermen to fill vacant posts or schedule a special election to be called in accordance with city code, which allowed her and the part-time city clerks to manage the city without oversight, the audit noted.

In addition to the $66,000, the audit found Roach did not pay for her utility services totaling $2,036 or her city property taxes totaling $213. She also improperly paid herself $300.

Roach also hired and paid her daughter $800 to serve as the city clerk for three months in violation of the state constitutions prohibition on nepotism.

Fitzpatrick said Roach told auditors that the cash deposits into her personal accounts were a result of the sale of vaping devices, T-shirts and fireworks.

But, according to the report, if every vaping device that she ordered was sold and the cash proceeds deposited into the acting mayors personal bank account, the vaping devices would have been sold at a 265% markup.

Auditors also found that Roach used $9,215 in money orders to pay down her credit card balance, suggesting that missing city cash receipts may have been used to purchase the money orders.

Roachs attorney, Terry McVey, could not be immediately reached for comment.
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey does not have the legal authority to demand access to patient records at the Washington University Transgender Center, according to a lawsuit filed Monday in St. Louis Circuit Court.

Bailey cited Missouris consumer protection law, known as the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act, to demand access to all electronic health records from patients at the Transgender Center as part of his investigation into the centers practices.

In the lawsuit, Washington University is asking Judge Jason Sengheiser to determine if Baileys civil investigative demands are legal and to what extent in order to modify Baileys request, noting that the Merchandising Practices Act pertains to false advertising in connection with the sale or advertisement of any merchandise in trade or commerce or the solicitation of any funds for any charitable purpose.

Washington Universitys attorney, James Bennett, wrote in the lawsuit that the university has turned over documents related to advertising but argued that patient care is outside of the MMPAs bounds.

Certain statements have been made by the attorney general that have caused Washington University to further question whether all of the requests (including those at issue now) are properly within the scope of the MMPA, he wrote. The statements suggested that the investigation was directed at medical decision making as much if not more than it was directed to sales or advertising.

Baileys office also requested information from a Transgender Center physician and nurse. The lawsuit says the demands appear to call for testimony about specific patients and medical decision making.

During recent discussions about the demand, the lawsuit states, the attorney generals office told Washington University that it views the appropriate scope of its investigation to include consent to treatment, referrals for treatment, prescribing decisions and compliance with the standard of care for treating the (Transgender Centers) patients.

Bailey sent the initial civil investigative demands to Washington University Feb. 23  two weeks after former Transgender Center employee Jamie Reed published allegations against the center in a national media outlet.

Bennett wrote that Baileys demand appears to be based in part on Reeds affidavit to the attorney general.

Transgender Center patients and their parents have raised concerns over Reeds allegations and expressed anxiety with health records and identifiable details being shared with Bailey and the public.

The lawsuit focuses on concern for patient privacy, noting patient records are protected under the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

HIPAA preempts state laws but allows the disclosure of protected health information to a health oversight agency.

Historically, the Missouri state health oversight agency has been the Board of Healing Arts, Bennett wrote in the litigation. No case has held that the attorney general is a health oversight agency.

Washington University asked the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Civil Rights whether the state attorney general would be considered a health oversight agency, the lawsuit says. It did not receive an answer.

Bailey commented on the federal governments role in the case in a statement to The Independent.

We will not let Joe Biden and his federal bureaucrats interfere with our investigation into the pediatric transgender clinic, he said. These documents are critical to exposing that children were subject to irreversible, life-altering procedures without full and informed parental consent. Weve been fighting to protect children since the day I took office and will not stop now.

This investigation not the first time Bailey used the MMPA to regulate gender-affirming care.

Bailey filed an emergency rule in April under the MMPA that sought to place restrictions on receiving gender-affirming care for both transgender children and adults. A judge blocked the implementation temporarily, but Bailey withdrew the rule before a final verdict was reached.

Washington University stopped treating transgender minors for gender dysphoria in September, citing concerns about a new laws provision placing more liability on physicians than other treatments.

Missouri Independent is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Missouri Independent maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Jason Hancock for questions: info@missouriindependent.com. Follow Missouri Independent on Facebook and X.
EAST CARONDELET  More than 80 tow trucks from across the metro area and beyond gathered for a funeral procession Tuesday night in honor of colleague Wade Bivins, who was struck and killed by a pickup truck last week as he was removing a broken-down vehicle along Interstate 255.

"They're here to show support and love," said Niki O'Bryan, the manager of Bivins' employer, Paw Paw Towing of Millstadt. "The towing community is a close-knit community. We're always here to help each other out."

Dozens of tow trucks parked at Weber Chevrolet in Columbia, with their hazard lights on, before lining up for the procession. A large digital sign on one truck, from Petroff Towing in Caseyville, read "RIP Wade."

O'Bryan said the procession aimed to make the public aware of the need to pay attention and watch out for tow trucks and other emergency vehicles responding to accidents.

Fire trucks from various Metro East departments also took part in the procession, in recognition of Bivins' many years of service as a volunteer firefighter.

The procession went from Leesman Funeral Home in Dupo, where a visitation and memorial service were held, to a gathering at the community center in nearby East Carondelet in St. Clair County. That's where Bivins lived for many years and was a longtime volunteer in civic causes.

"Every community needs a Wade," said Herb Simmons, East Carondelet's longtime mayor and a friend and neighbor of Bivins for decades. "I never heard him say the word 'no'."

The Illinois State Police said Bivins was struck as he walked around the left side of his tow truck last Wednesday morning on the right shoulder of southbound I-255 near Columbia. The driver of the truck that hit Bivins stopped and stayed on the scene.

A state police spokeswoman said Tuesday that the incident was still under investigation.

Simmons, the mayor, said Bivins had been a volunteer firefighter for the Prairie Du Pont Fire Department, which serves East Carondelet and nearby areas, since 1984.

Simmons said he also had been assistant director of the village's emergency service agency, also a volunteer position.

He also said Bivins filled sandbags during the great 1993 flood, played Santa Claus for local kids at village celebrations and helped out with the village's annual charity fish fry.

O'Bryan said Bivins had been a tow truck driver about two years and began working for Paw Paw last April.

Before that, Simmons said, Bivins had worked for Mississippi River barge companies for about 20 years. One of his responsibilities, Simmons said, had been heading an emergency response team for barge traffic.

Simmons said Bivins had expressed concern at the danger tow truck drivers face. "He'd always say (they) have to be careful out there because people don't slow down and move over," Simmons said.

O'Bryan said the danger for tow truck drivers and other emergency workers has increased in recent years as more and more motorists are distracted by their smartphones.

Some drivers who joined the procession said they did so to pay their respects to Bivins, and to support safety in what can be a dangerous job. Eddie Burke, with Curtis Auto Body and Towing in Millstadt, said he sees people every day on their phones while they're driving.

Driver Danny Sanders, with Majeed Towing in Ballwin, said he wanted to make the point "for people to move over."

Henry Mooney, a driver with Jerry's Auto Repair and Towing in Red Bud, said, "People just don't care anymore. I feel like tow truck drivers don't get respect."

O'Bryan and Simmons said they believed that motorists would pay more attention if Illinois would change its rules to allow tow truck drivers to use red and blue flashing lights like those in Missouri are able to do. Illinois tow trucks are restricted to amber lights.

O'Bryan said she and a tow company official in Waterloo plan to begin a petition drive to try to get the Illinois rules changed. Simmons said that would require action by the state Legislature.

Among the survivors are Bivins' wife, Paula Bivins, three daughters and three grandchildren.
CLAYTON  St. Louis County health officials issued a warning Wednesday about a steep rise in COVID-19 cases going into the holidays.

The weekly average number of cases on Wednesday increased to 166 new cases a day  a 45% increase over the previous week, according to the St. Louis County Department of Public Health.

The increase underscores the critical need for action to curb the spread of the virus, the warning stated.

Officials urged residents to take protective measures to mitigate spread, including staying up to date on vaccinations, wearing masks in indoor public places, practicing social distancing and washing hands often.

In addition, stay home if sick and take a COVID-19 test. Those who test positive should isolate for at least five days (day 1 being the first full day after symptoms started, or the first full day after taking the test if symptom-free). If you still have a fever, continue isolating until fever-free for 24 hours.

As we approach the holiday season, it is essential to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines, officials stated. Consider celebrating with smaller gatherings, opting for virtual meetups, and staying informed about the latest health recommendations.

Statewide, the number of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 has also increased, according to the latest data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In Missouri during the week ending Nov. 25, data shows 518 people were admitted to hospitals with COVID-19  the highest since the week ending Jan. 21 of this year, and an increase of nearly 39% from the 374 admitted two weeks prior.

Nationwide over the same time period, the weekly number of patients admitted with COVID-19 to hospitals increased 17%  from 16,609 to 19,444, according to the CDC.

The spread of influenza remains low so far this season in Missouri. The latest data from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services through Nov. 25 shows 57 people were admitted to hospitals with the flu that week. And less than 2% of emergency department visits were for flu-like illnesses.

Everyone 6 months of age and older is recommended to get an annual influenza vaccine as well as an updated COVID-19 vaccine approved earlier this fall. The updated COVID-19 vaccine made by Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna or Novavax more closely targets the latest variants and could restore waning protection against severe COVID-19.

The St. Louis County Department of Public Health offers walk-in vaccinations Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. at the John C. Murphy Health Center in Berkeley, the North Central Community Health Center in Pine Lawn, and the South County Health Center in Sunset Hills.

Those with health insurance are asked to bring their insurance card, but the health department will serve all residents, regardless of their ability to pay.
LAS VEGAS  Terrified students and professors cowered in classrooms and dorms as a gunman roamed the floors of a University of Nevada, Las Vegas building, killing three people and critically wounding a fourth before dying in a shootout with police.

The gunman in Wednesday's shooting was a professor who had unsuccessfully sought a job at the school, a law enforcement official with direct knowledge of the investigation told The Associated Press. He previously worked at East Carolina University in North Carolina, said the official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they werent authorized to release the information publicly.

The attack was the worst shooting in the city since October 2017, when a gunman killed 60 people and wounded more than 400 after opening fire from the window of a room at Mandalay Bay casino on the world-famous Las Vegas Strip only a couple miles from the UNLV campus.

Lessons learned from that shooting  the deadliest in modern U.S. history  helped authorities to work seamlessly in reacting to the UNLV attack, Sheriff Kevin McMahill said at a news conference.

Reports of shots fired at about 11:45 a.m. sent police swarming onto the campus while students and professors barricaded themselves inside classrooms and dorm rooms.

Police said the shooting started on the fourth floor of the building that houses UNLVs Lee Business School, and the gunman went to several floors before he was killed in a shootout outside the building.

UNLV Police Chief Adam Garcia said at an evening news conference that two university detectives immediately got into a shootout with the killer.

Authorities gave the all-clear about 40 minutes after the first report of an active shooter.

Sheriff Kevin McMahill said students had gathered outside the building to eat and play games. If police hadn't killed the attacker, it could have been countless additional lives taken, he said.

No student should have to fear pursuing their dreams on a college campus, the sheriff said.

Professor Kevaney Martin took cover under a desk in her classroom, where another faculty member and three students took shelter with her.

It was terrifying, I cant even begin to explain, Martin said. I was trying to hold it together for my students, and trying not to cry, but the emotions are something I never want to experience again.

Martin said she was texting friends and loved ones, hoping to receive word a suspect had been detained. When another professor came to the room and told everyone to evacuate, they joined dozens of others rushing out of the building. Martin had her students pile into her car and drove them off campus.

Once we got away from UNLV, we parked and sat in silence, she said. Nobody said a word. We were in utter shock.

Students and the community were alerted to the emergency by a university post on X that warned: This is not a test. RUN-HIDE-FIGHT.

The university said the shooter was at the Beam Hall, Frank and Estella Building, and that police responded to an additional report of shots fired at the nearby student union.

Student Matthew Felsenfeld said he and about 12 classmates barricaded their door in a building near the student union.

Its the moment you call your parents and tell them you love them, said Felsenfeld, a 21-year-old journalism student.

Another student, Jordan Eckermann, 25, said he was in his business law class in a second-floor classroom when he heard a loud bang that he thought came from a neighboring music class.

But then a piercing alarm went off, sending students to their feet. Some ran from the room in panic while others heeded their professors instructions to stay calm, said Eckermann.

He walked out and locked eyes with a law enforcement officer in a bulletproof vest holding a long gun. Clothing, backpacks and water bottles lay scattered on the floor.

Eckerman said he mouthed to the officer, Where do I go?

The officer pointed to an exit.

Minutes later, when he was outside, Eckermann said he heard bursts of gunshots, totaling at least 20 rounds. The air smelled of gun powder. He said he kept walking away from campus, even though he didn't know where to go.

UNLVs 332-acre campus is less than 2 miles east of the Las Vegas Strip. it wasnt immediately clear how many of the 30,000 students were on campus.

The shooting occurred in a city still scarred by one of the worst mass killings in U.S. history, the Oct. 1, 2017, massacre by a gunman in which 60 people attending a music festival were killed and hundreds more were wounded. The gunman opened fire from a high-rise suite at the Mandalay Bay casino. The UNLV campus is just over 3 miles from that location.

In response to the campus shootings, the Federal Aviation Administration issued a ground stop of all flights coming into Harry Reid International Airport. The university is roughly 2 miles north of the airport.

Classes were canceled through Friday at the university, and UNLVs basketball game at the University of Dayton, Ohio, was canceled Wednesday night because of the Las Vegas shootings.

Read more:

Photos from the UNLV active shooter scene in Las Vegas
The College Board released an updated framework Wednesday for its new Advanced Placement African American Studies course, months after the nonprofit testing company came under intense scrutiny for engaging with conservative critics.

The revision includes more material on topics including the Tulsa Race Massacre, Black culture's influence on film and sports, and discriminatory housing practices known as redlining. The new framework will be used when the course officially launches next academic year.

The course gained national attention early this year when Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, now a Republican presidential candidate, said he would ban the course in his state because it pushed a political agenda. The College Board later removed several topics from the exam, including Black Lives Matter, slavery reparations and queer life, and was criticized for bowing to political pressure.

The latest changes address some of that criticism.

The course outline includes written works about feminism and intersectionality, which is a framework for understanding the effects of overlapping systems of discrimination or disadvantage. A unit on "The Black Feminist Movement, Womanism and Intersectionality" includes the 1977 Combahee River Collective Statement by a group of Black feminist lesbians who fought against capitalism, imperialism and patriarchy.

The College Board, a nonprofit testing company, faced criticism last winter for removing intersectionality from this unit.

The course framework also adds "Legacy" by provocative poet and activist Amiri Baraka as an optional resource in a section on Black arts, after Baraka was among several prominent Black voices removed last winter. Black female writers, including bell hooks and Audre Lorde, also were spotted in the latest revisions.

Several sources that were required course content in the framework released in February were listed as optional in the latest revision, including an interactive map of the 1919 Red Summer riots by white supremacists, a speech by Frederick Douglass and writings between Malcolm X and Maya Angelou in Ghana.

The College Board in April said it would revise the course after the Florida controversy, promising an " unflinching encounter with the facts," an announcement some scholars interpreted as an admission that it watered down the course. However, the nonprofit did not add back every topic downgraded in last winter's update. The Black Lives Matter movement is still not included in the final AP exam, though it is mentioned with other examples of grassroots organizing and listed among sample topics schools could choose from for further discussion.

"There is a lot of content to cover, and that is because students have not been exposed to this. So it feels overwhelming at times that there's a lot that they don't know," said Nelva Williamson, a member of the course's development committee who teaches one pilot class of AP African American Studies to 31 students at Young Women's College Preparatory Academy in Houston.

Williamson said those who teach the course are asked each month what is going well and what needs work. "But then there's also this piece: 'What would you like to see?'" Williamson, who has been teaching for more than 40 years, said of piloting the AP course. "The updates are based on teacher recommendations, and changes coincide with the latest scholarship and resources used at the collegiate level."

The Advanced Placement course provides students with the basics to understand the field of African American studies but does not delve deeply into theoretical discussions that are more common at the college level, said Rashad Shabazz, a professor at Arizona State University who teaches several courses related to race.

"I'm saying this because a lot of what conservative politicians have been trying to do is say what is happening in a university is happening in high school, and that's not the truth at all," he said.

The College Board offers AP courses across the academic spectrum, including in math, science, social studies, foreign languages and fine arts. The courses are optional and taught at a college level. Students who score high enough on the final exam usually can earn course credit at their university.

The AP African American Studies course initially was piloted in 60 schools in 2022 and was expanded this academic year to about 700 schools and about 13,000 students.

The revised framework "defines the course content, what students will see on the AP exam, and represents more than three years of rigorous development by nearly 300 African American Studies scholars, high school AP teachers and experts within the AP Program," the College Board said in a statement.

Next year, the AP course will be available to all schools in the U.S. but it remains unclear how many will actually offer it.

"We are encouraged by the groundswell of interest in the class," said Holly Stepp, spokesperson for the College Board.

The persistence of anti-Black hate crimes is an American tradition: What more than 30 years of federal data tells us The persistence of anti-Black hate crimes is an American tradition: What more than 30 years of federal data tells us Over 60% of all reported hate crimes are racially motivated At least 1,500 anti-Black hate crimes have been reported every year since 1991 Complete data based on official hate crime reporting is limited There are 3 main reasons why hate crimes go unreported Opportunity for nuanced conversation and data
RALEIGH, NC / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / ACCESSWIRE, a newswire service standout that provides regional, national and global news to thousands of clients worldwide is partnering with businesses to enhance brand visibility, drive website traffic, extend market reach, generate leads, and boost sales.

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Press Release

December 6, 2023 Koko expresses grave concern over PHL underperformance in PISA Following the country's poor showing in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III expressed grave concerns and emphasized the urgent need to adjust the curriculum to cultivate the Filipino students' interest in mathematics, reading and science. Pimentel stressed the need to urgently adjust the curriculum to help develop an interest in mathematics and science as well as instill a scientific way of thinking among the Filipino students. "Our curriculum must evolve to meet the demands of the 21st century and address the root cause of this lackluster performance in the PISA assessment," Pimentel said in a statement on Wednesday. "The Department of Education should realize the generational impact of these dismal results if not addressed immediately," he added. According to the 2022 PISA study, which was published on Tuesday and involved 690,000 students from 81 countries, the Philippines' performance in the three subjects remained relatively unchanged compared to 2018 when it first participated in the assessment. In the 2018 PISA study, the Philippines scored the lowest in reading and second lowest in math and science among the 79 participating nations. In the latest 2022 assessment, the Philippines ranked sixth from the bottom in reading and mathematics, and it was positioned third from the bottom in science among the 81 participating countries. "It is very alarming to see that the Philippines has shown no improvement in the PISA rankings and remains at the bottom in mathematics, reading, and science," Pimentel, a mathematician, added. Pimentel said the poor results highlight the shortcomings of the educational system and underscores the urgent need for comprehensive educational reforms. "If we do not take immediate and resolute action, it will cast doubt upon the future competitiveness of our future generation," stressed Pimentel. "It will affect the employability of our people," he added.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. The United States could contribute to the peace process in the South Caucasus, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said, as he received US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs James O'Brien, Trend reports.

President Ilham Aliyev said that there was a rich history of relations between Azerbaijan and the United States and stated that during the years of Azerbaijan's independence, the two countries had established the relations of successful cooperation in various fields, especially in the field of energy.

Emphasizing that Azerbaijan supported the regional peace agenda, President Ilham Aliyev said that after the end of the conflict and full restoration of Azerbaijan's sovereignty, historic opportunities had arisen for the establishment of peace, noting that the United States could contribute to the process by considering the new realities.
COLORADO SPRINGS, CO / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Fortitude Gold Corp. (OTCQB: FTCO) (the "Company") declares its monthly dividend of $0.04 per common share payable on December 29, 2023 to shareholders of record as of December 19, 2023. Fortitude Gold is a gold producer, developer, and explorer with operations in Nevada, U.S.A. offering investors exposure to both gold production and dividend yield.

Dividends may vary in amount and consistency or be discontinued at the Board of Directors' discretion depending on variables including but not limited to operational cash flows, Company development requirements and strategies, construction, spot gold and silver prices, taxation, general market conditions and other factors described in the Company's public filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

About Fortitude Gold Corp.:

Fortitude Gold is a U.S.-based gold producer targeting projects with low operating costs, high margins, and strong returns on capital. The Company's strategy is to grow organically, remain debt-free and distribute substantial dividends. The Company's Nevada Mining Unit consists of five high-grade gold properties located in the Walker Lane Mineral Belt and a sixth high-grade gold property in west central Nevada. The Isabella Pearl gold mine, located on the Isabella Pearl mineralized trend, is currently in production. Nevada, U.S.A. is among the world's premier mining-friendly jurisdictions.

Cautionary Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. If you are risk-averse you should NOT buy shares in Fortitude Gold Corp. The statements contained in this press release that are not purely historical are 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. When used in this press release, the words "plan", "target", "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "intend" and "expect" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the statements regarding the Company's strategy, future plans for production, future expenses and costs, future liquidity and capital resources, and estimates of mineralized material are forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon information available to the Company on the date of this press release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, and there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those discussed in this press release.

CONTACT:

Greg Patterson

719-717-9825

[email protected]

www.Fortitudegold.com

SOURCE: Fortitude Gold Corporation

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CALGARY, AB / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Zenith Energy Ltd. ("Zenith" or the "Company") (LSE:ZEN)(OSE:ZENA)(OTCQB:ZENAF), the listed international energy production and development company, announces that its fully owned subsidiary, Canadian North Africa Oil and Gas Limited ("CNAOG") has initiated an ICC (International Chamber of Commerce) arbitration case seated in Paris against the Republic of Tunisia (the "CNAOG ICC Arbitration").

Background

As announced by the Company on November 22, 2021, Zenith Overseas Assets Holdings Ltd ("ZOA"), a fully owned subsidiary of Zenith, entered into a share purchase agreement to acquire a 100% interest in the issued, allotted, outstanding and fully paid-up share capital of CNAOG, previously named CNPC International (Tunisia) Ltd, a then subsidiary of China National Petroleum Corporation, one of the largest state-owned energy companies in the world (the "Acquisition").

CNAOG held an undivided 22.5% interest in the North Kairouan permit and the Sidi El Kilani Concession in Tunisia ("SLK" or the "Concession"), as well as still owning 25% of the issued share capital of Compagnie Tuniso-Koweito-Chinoise de Ptrole ("CTKCP"), the operating company of SLK.

For reasons unknown to the Company and devoid of any legal grounding, the Tunisian State represented by the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Hydrocarbons arbitrarily refused to recognise the Acquisition of CNAOG, which was performed in accordance with all applicable laws and duly notified to the local authorities.

It is to be underlined that the Ministry's position is in contravention of established precedent, including the acquisition of Ecumed Petroleum Tunisia Ltd, which holds a 100% interest in the Robbana and El Bibane concessions by Compagnie Du Desert Ltd ("CDD"), a fully owned subsidiary of Zenith, announced on April 30, 2021, as well as the acquisition of Ecumed Petroleum Zarzis Ltd ("EPZ"), which held a 45% interest in the Ezzaouia concession and still owns 50 percent ownership of MARETAP, the joint operating company for the Ezzaouia concession, first announced on March 15, 2021.

Claim

The Company's is pleased to confirm that it has formalised a claim for damages in the amount of US$85.8 million (the "Claimed Amount") in connection with the CNAOG ICC Arbitration.

The Claimed Amount has been assessed by a third-party expert consultant in consideration of the following:

CNAOG's lost production revenue and associated profitability, during a period of high energy prices, from the SLK Concession until its initial expiry in December 2022

The volume of crude oil produced from the Concession and allocated to and received by CNAOG upon the completion of the Acquisition

Unpaid invoices for oil production by ETAP, the national oil company of Tunisia.

The value of the 45% interest in the renewal of the SLK Concession, representing a breach of CNAOG's right to renew its previously existing 22.5% interest in SLK, as well as the 22.5% interest held by Kuwait Foreign Petroleum Exploration Company K.S.C.C, which relinquished its interest in the Concession before its initial expiry.

The Company wishes to clarify that the CNAOG ICC Arbitration is being performed in parallel to the ICC Arbitration against ETAP, announced to the market on November 1, 2023, for a total amount of US$6.5 million, and to the arbitration pending before the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes in Washington DC ("ICSID Arbitration") , for a total cumulative claimed amount of at least US$48 million, announced to the market on June 7, 2023, following various breaches of bilateral trade agreements committed by the Republic of Tunisia.

Andrea Cattaneo, Chief Executive Officer, commented:

"It is again regrettable that we have been compelled to seek legal redress by way of our third arbitration in connection with our Tunisian assets for the very material commercial harm we have suffered because of the arbitrary conduct of the Tunisian authorities.

Zenith Energy is one of the few energy companies that invested in Tunisia in recent years during a period when most energy companies, irrespective of size, were actively seeking to leave the country.

The Board is fully confident in the merits of the CNAOG ICC Arbitration and will take all necessary action to ensure shareholders are fully compensated for the damage they have sustained."

Notes to Editors:

Zenith Energy Ltd. is a revenue generating, independent energy company with production, exploration and development assets in North Africa and Europe, including electricity generation in Italy. The Company is listed on the London Stock Exchange Main Market (LSE: ZEN), the Euronext Growth of the Oslo Stock Exchange (OSE: ZENA) and the Venture Market of the OTCQB (OTCQB: ZENAF).

Zenith's strategic focus is on pursuing development opportunities through the development of proven revenue generating energy production assets, as well as low-risk exploration activities in assets with existing production.

For more information, please visit: www.zenithenergy.ca

Twitter: @zenithenergyltd

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3A5PRJb

Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) Disclosure

The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No. 596/2014 as it forms part of UK domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 ("MAR"). Upon the publication of this announcement via a Regulatory Information Service ("RIS"), this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain.

SOURCE: Zenith Energy Ltd.

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John Barleycorn Awards Panel Names Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. High Rye Bourbon A Damn Fine Bourbon' & Awards Double Gold to All Five Expressions Submitted for Exceptional Appearance, Aroma, Taste & Finish

LOUISVILLE, KY / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Kentucky Peerless was awarded Double Gold in the John Barleycorn Awards for all five expressions submitted. The labels include Peerless Small Batch Bourbon, Peerless Small Batch Rye, Peerless Small Batch Double Oak Bourbon, Peerless Small Batch Double Oak Rye, and Peerless High Rye Bourbon. All Peerless products were recognized for their exceptional appearance, aroma, taste, and finish. Amongst the panel's praises, Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. High Rye Bourbon was named "A damn fine bourbon."

John Barleycorn Award

Kentucky Peerless was awarded Double Gold in the John Barleycorn Awards for all five expressions submitted.

"We are honored to have been recognized across the board by this group of esteemed professionals. The Peerless team prides itself on its commitment to bettering craft whiskey. Accolades like these serve as confirmation of our dedication and determination. We thank our loyal patrons for their incredible support," said Carson Taylor, 5th generation President.

Mike Young, Peerless Executive Vice President, explained, "During my time here, I have witnessed Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co.'s unwavering commitment to producing exquisite whiskey. It is with great pride that I join this exceptional team - one that is acknowledged and acclaimed for its unparalleled achievements."

The John Barleycorn Awards are known for recognizing excellence in the spirits industry. Each entry was blind-tasted and scored on a 100-point scale. Judging is under the leadership of noted spirits writer John McCarthy. He oversees the elite panel of judges, including Leslie Sbrocco, Fred Minnick, Clay Risen, Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan, Robin Robinson, Wayne Curtis, Frank Caiafa, G. Clay Whittaker, Tony Sachs, Brad Japhe, Rachel DelRocco Terrazas, Amanda Schuster, Lou Bank, Zach Johnston, Emma Janzen, and Susan Reigler. A complete list of winners, along with more information, is available at www.barleycornawards.com.

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company is open to the public Monday through Saturday for tours and tastings in Louisville, Kentucky.

About Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. The family-owned and operated craft distillery is located in Louisville, Kentucky. It was established in 1889 and resurrected in 2013 by Corky Taylor, 4th Generation, and Carson Taylor, 5th Generation. The distillery is known for its commitment to producing handcrafted, sweet mash bourbon and rye whiskey using traditional methods and the finest ingredients.

Today, Peerless operates under the same distilled spirits number, DSP-KY-50, with the same historically superlative standards. It has opted to craft entirely in-house without outsourcing or comprising. "We're driven by quality, not profit," says Corky Taylor. "We're very serious about making the best product we can."

Contact: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company, 120 North 10th Street, Louisville, KY 40202

For press inquiries: [email protected]

For additional elements: https://bit.ly/BarleycornAwards

Like or follow Peerless on Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube

Contact Information

Cadie Tucker

Marketing

[email protected]

(502) 566-4999

Christina Vassallo

Marketing Manager

[email protected]

50244421892

SOURCE: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Klondike Gold Corp. (TSXV:KG)(FRA:LBDP)(OTCQB: KDKGF) ("Klondike Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to report 2023 mapping, rock sampling and diamond drilling results from nine holes at the Gay Gulch gold showing on the Company's 100% owned Klondike District Property (the "Property") in the Dawson mining district, Yukon, Canada.

HIGHLIGHTS:

DDH EC23-501 returned 4.39 g/t gold over 6.95 meters from 19.55 meters.

DDH EC23-502 returned 14.08 g/t gold over 1.10 meters from 17.10 meters.

Gay Gulch showing outcrop assays gold up to 108.1 g/t Au (3.46 opt Au).

Major low angle thrust faults identified at the Gay Gulch showing are interpreted to control emplacement of gold-bearing shear veins and associated sheeted veins.

The highest-grade rock grab samples (108.1 g/t Au (3.45 opt Au) reported here, and 4,064 g/t Au (143 oz/t Au) reported previously (see NR February 21, 2023) are from an interpreted shear vein array.

Granite is identified by mapping and whole rock analyses at Gay Gulch. Granite is present within (imbricate) thrust slices. Gold is present in shear veins and sheeted quartz veins developed preferentially along the granite margins. This association is typical at the gold deposit-scale of important orogenic gold districts worldwide.

Peter Tallman, Klondike Gold's President & CEO, states; "The collaboration this summer with orogenic gold experts' Rich Goldfarb and Ben Frieman has produced consequential exploration insights into the geology and structural controls affecting gold mineralization within the Klondike District. Positive systematic exploration results following these insights includes high gold grades from Dominion, Gold Run, and now Gay Gulch. The recognition and documentation of gold-related thrusting consistent with predictive orogenic gold models at specific gold showings and gold resource areas is a gigantic step forward. These continuing positive 2023 results will have an even greater impact going forward. I believe we'll look back on the 2023 season as a breakthrough moment in the development of the historic Klondike Gold District."

GAY GULCH AREA 2023 WORK PROGRAM RESULTS

Prospecting, mapping, and diamond drilling was conducted at the Gay Gulch gold target located 800 meters across strike from the Stander Zone gold mineral resource area.

Six prospecting samples of individual 5 to 20 cm wide outcrop quartz veins were collected in the Gay Gulch showing from new exposures of shear veining containing visible gold adjacent gold-mineralized sheeted veins.

New sampling of the main shear vein yields a "highlight" outcrop sample assayed 108.1 g/t Au (3.46 opt Au) containing abundant visible gold. Previous 2022 sampling here assayed 4,064 g/t Au (143 oz/t Au) (see NR February 21, 2023).

Seven drill holes totalling 637 meters tested the Gay Gulch target along a 150-meter strike length and across a width of 100 meters. (See Figure 2). Six of seven drill holes intersected gold bearing sheeted veins. Visible gold was noted in two holes: EC23-501 and EC23-503. (See Figure 3).

Two additional drill holes, EC23-506 and EC23-507, targeted an area of gold-bearing quartz vein float in pre-1949 pits and trenches located by recent prospecting 600 meters uphill from Gay Gulch showing. Both drill holes EC23-506 and EC23-507 at Upper Gay Gulch" intersected interesting gold-bearing quartz vein intervals.

Table 1: Summary of Significant Gold Intervals at Gay Gulch and Upper Gay Gulch Showings

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Length (m) Au (g/t) Area EC23-499 10.50 30.00 19.50 0.18 Gay Gulch EC23-500 17.10 20.60 3.50 0.37 Gay Gulch EC23-501 10.10 36.60 26.50 1.22 Gay Gulch Incl 19.55 26.50 6.95 4.39 Gay Gulch EC23-502 17.10 37.00 19.90 0.83 Gay Gulch Incl 17.10 18.20 1.10 14.08 Gay Gulch and 100.00 103.10 3.10 0.36 Gay Gulch EC23-503 89.15 117.00 27.85 0.38 Gay Gulch Incl 111.97 112.18 0.21 12.90 Gay Gulch EC23-504 106.40 121.45 15.05 0.11 Gay Gulch EC23-505 NSV Gay Gulch EC23-506 45.57 46.12 0.55 3.04 Upper Gay Gulch EC23-507 37.60 49.50 11.90 0.17 Upper Gay Gulch

Figure 1: Location map of 2023 exploration areas within the Property.

Figure 2: Location map of 2023 and previous drill holes at the Gay Gulch Zone with drilled extents of gold mineralization shown in yellow.

Figure 3: Photo of visible gold in EC23-503 drill core interval 111.97-112.18m: 12.90 g/t Au - within 0.38 g/t Au over 27.85m.

Drilling at Gay Gulch intersected two horizontally oriented granite lithologic units bounded by shear (thrust) faults. Gold is present in both shear veins and sheeted quartz veins developed preferentially in proximity to the granite margins (See Figure 4).

Figure 4: Geology cross-section with mineralized intervals at the Gay Gulch Zone.

The systematic mapping / sampling survey at Gay Gulch is part of a broader 2023 effort to assess structural controls in gold target areas to distinguish areas of gold mineralization with tonnage potential from smaller localized showings. The Company in 2023 completed 25 diamond drill holes testing targets including the Gold Run target, Stander Zone mineral resource area1, and Gay Gulch Showing among other targets. Rock sampling with mapping results from Stander East and other targets mapped during this effort are pending. Assays from 16 out of 25 drilled in 2023 have now been reported. The remainder of the 2023 drill hole program assays are pending.

QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL

KLONDIKE GOLD 2023 QA/QC prospecting rock and drill core sample protocols are found on our website: https://www.klondikegoldcorp.com/projects/sampling-and-assay-protocols/

The technical and scientific information contained within this news release has been reviewed and approved by Peter Tallman, P.Geo., President and CEO of Klondike Gold and Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 policy. Detailed technical information, specifications, analytical information and procedures can be found on the Company's website.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Klondike Gold will be participating in the following upcoming events:

VRIC (Vancouver, BC) Booth 111 - January 21 - 22, 2024;

AME RoundUp (Vancouver, BC) - January 22 - 25, 2024

PDAC (Toronto, ON), March 3 - 6, 2024

ABOUT KLONDIKE GOLD CORP.

Klondike Gold is a Vancouver based gold exploration company advancing its 100%-owned Klondike District Gold Project located at Dawson City, Yukon, one of the top mining jurisdictions in the world. The Klondike District Gold Project targets gold associated with district scale orogenic faults along the 55-km length of the famous Klondike Goldfields placer district. Multi-km gold mineralization has been identified at both the Lone Star Zone and Stander Zone, among other targets. The Company has identified a Mineral Resource Estimate of 469,000 Indicated and 112,000 Inferred gold ounces1, a milestone first for the Klondike District. The Company is focused on exploration and development of its 727 square km property accessible by scheduled airline and government-maintained roads located on the outskirts of Dawson City, Yukon, within the Tr'ondk Hwech'in First Nation traditional territory.

1 The Mineral Resource Estimate for the Klondike District Property was prepared by Marc Jutras, P.Eng., M.A.Sc., Principal, Ginto Consulting Inc., an independent Qualified Person in accordance with the requirements of NI 43-101. The technical report supporting the Mineral Resource Estimate entitled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Klondike District Gold Project, Yukon Territory, Canada" has been filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca effective November 10, 2022. Refer to news release of December 16, 2022.

ON BEHALF OF KLONDIKE GOLD CORP.

"Peter Tallman"

Peter Tallman,

President and CEO

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:

Telephone: (604) 609-6138

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.klondikegoldcorp.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements". When used in this document, the words "anticipated", "expect", "estimated", "forecast", "planned", and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements or information. These statements are based on current expectations of management, however, they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this news release. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these statements. Klondike Gold does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise after the date hereof, except as required by securities laws.

SOURCE: Klondike Gold Corp.

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Mako Mining Corp. (TSX-V:MKO)(OTCQX:MAKOF) ("Mako" or the "Company") announces that it has filed today an independent technical report (the "Technical Report") prepared by Mine Development Associates, a division of RESPEC, out of Reno, Nevada, in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. The Technical Report supports the results of an updated mineral resource estimate for the Company's San Albino Project ("San Albino"), which includes the Las Conchitas deposit, located in Nueva Segovia, Nicaragua, previously announced by the Company in its press release dated October 31st, 2023.

The Company confirms that there are no material differences between the results announced in its October 31st, 2023 press release, and the results set out in the Technical Report now filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, and posted on the Company's website at www.makominingcorp.com.

On behalf of the Board,

Akiba Leisman

Chief Executive Officer

About Mako

Mako Mining Corp. is a publicly listed gold mining, development, and exploration firm. The Company is developing its high-grade San Albino gold project in Nueva Segovia, Nicaragua. Mako's primary objective is to bring San Albino into production quickly and efficiently, while continuing exploration of prospective targets in Nicaragua.

For further information: Akiba Leisman, Chief Executive Officer, Telephone: 917-558-5289, E-mail: [email protected] or visit our website at www.makominingcorp.com and SEDAR+www.sedarplus.ca.

Forward-Looking Information: Some of the statements contained herein may be considered "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information can be identified by words such as, without limitation, "estimate", "project", "believe", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" or variations thereon or comparable terminology. The forward-looking information contained herein reflects the Company's current beliefs and expectations, based on management's reasonable assumptions, and includes, without limitation; Mako's primary objective to operate San Albino profitably and fund exploration of prospective targets in Nicaragua. Such forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking information, including, without limitation, changes in the Company's exploration and development plans and growth parameters; unanticipated costs; the October 24, 2022 measures having impacts on business operations not currently expected, or new sanctions being imposed by the U.S. Treasury Department or other government entity in Nicaragua in the future; and other risks and uncertainties as disclosed in the Company's public disclosure filings on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Such information contained herein represents management's best judgment as of the date hereof, based on information currently available. Mako does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, 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) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Mako Mining Corp.

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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Maximus

16th Annual Veterans Stand Down event

Every Tuesday after Thanksgiving is designated as GivingTuesday, an annual celebration that encourages global generosity. The idea came to life in 2012 and has grown into a year-round global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity.

Throughout the year, Maximus employees demonstrate their generosity in a variety of ways-whether it's helping a neighbor, advocating for an issue, sharing a skill, or giving to causes, many across the U.S. donate their time, energy, and resources to give back to our local communities.

Join us in celebrating an inspiring story shared by our colleague and the meaningful cause they support.



Maximus Contact Center Operations, Lynn Haven, Florida

Shared by: Joy Sims, Manager, Customer Service

Homeless Veterans Stand Down events are one to three-day events that support local homeless Veterans by providing supplies and services such as medical services, clothing and toiletry donations, haircuts, job opportunities, and much more. This year's event was coordinated by the local CareerSource Gulf Coast agency with Gulf Coast State College, other government agencies, and community-based homeless service providers. With an estimated 2,400 homeless Veterans in Florida, this event allows Veterans to receive help, renew their spirit and health, and develop an overall sense of wellbeing.

Last September, in support of the 16th Annual Homeless Veterans Stand Down Event, employees from the Maximus Contact Center Operations site in Lynn Haven held an office drive to collect more than 670 donation items, ranging from toiletry and clothing to household supplies and helped more than 50 homeless Veterans receive the support they need.

Joy Sims, who helped lead the effort, shared her gratitude for the team's support, "It was an honor to be a part of this impactful event and deliver the donated supplies to help Veterans in our community. Thank you to the Maximus employees who made it possible to give back to our local Veterans."

This is just one of the many examples of Maximus staff donating their time to others. We are pleased to take this opportunity on GivingTuesday to recognize their efforts to give back to their communities and the vital causes that serve those who need it most.

Giving back to the communities we serve

The Maximus Foundation is one of the ways Maximus employees are doing something greater together. Established by the Maximus Board of Directors in 2000, the Maximus Foundation is an independent, employee-led, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Employee donors pool their charitable contributions together through the Foundation, double their impact on the grantmaking program through Maximus' dollar-for-dollar matching pledge, and make their voices heard by nominating and voting for future grantee partners. Though the Foundation focuses its giving strategy on grantmaking, it also helps coordinate corporate-wide humanitarian efforts and empowers employees to donate their time and skills to nonprofits. Their inspired giving and volunteerism help accelerate the missions of nonprofits on the frontlines of the communities we serve. Learn more at maximus.com/foundation.

Susie Clagett, Kimberly Simien, Joy Sims, and Alfonso Bell at the Veterans Stand Down Event.

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

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HALIFAX, NS / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Namibia Critical Metals Inc. ("Namibia Critical Metals" or the "Company" or "NCMI") (TSXV:NMI)(OTCQB: NMREF) is pleased to announce the completion of the final phase of drilling for its Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) on the "Lofdal 2B-4" heavy rare earth project.

In total, infill and resource expansion drilling for the PFS phase amounts to 10,823 m in 56 boreholes drilled over the last months. The final drill phase entailed seven very deep reverse circulation (RC) boreholes for 2,597 m in the Area 4 main deposit. While five boreholes represent infill boreholes in the deeper part of the central Area 4 deposit, two of the boreholes aimed at resource expansion at the newly established mineralized zone in the western part of the Area 4 deposit (see press release of 8 September 2023).

Darrin Campbell, President of Namibia Critical Metals, stated:

"The finalization of all planned drilling is another major step forward for our "Lofdal 2B-4" heavy rare earth project. The main aim of the drilling campaign was to significantly increase the measured and indicated resource categories to comply with the requirements of a PFS. Beyond this, field logging supports our concept of an extension of the orebody in the southwestern part of Area 4 which demonstrates the potential to unlock further mineralization in future. We expect to receive the assays in January 2024 and an updated resource statement in February 2024. Our Namibian in-country team managing the project has done a fantastic job in executing a very successful and cost-effective drill campaign."

Figure 1: RC drill rig of Prinsloo Drilling at the final drill position in the western part of Area 4

PFS Infill and Expansion Drilling Campaign 2023

Drilling was conducted at both, Area 2B and Area 4, in two phases between February and November 2023. In total, 10,823 m were drilled by reverse circulation (RC drilling) in 56 boreholes (see table 1).

The last 7 boreholes, completed in November 2023, were drilled into the deeper western part of the mineralization at Area 4 (figure 1) with end-of-hole (EOH) depths between 325 and 401 m. These deep holes aimed at both, infill drilling for the current pit shell and resource expansion drilling following the newly discovered thick and high-grade HREE-mineralized zone further to the southwest.

Figure 2: Drill collar positions of the PFS infill drilling campaign at Area 4 main deposit and outline of potential expansions of the final open pit

More than 1100 samples were collected from the last seven boreholes and submitted for ICP analysis to Actlabs by end of November 2023. Results are expected by mid-January 2024.

Jeremy Witley of The MSA Group was contracted as QP for the drilling and sampling activities and confirmed that the processes and standards for the exploration are appropriate for the style of mineralization at Lofdal and that acceptable QAQC protocols have been implemented.

MSA was also contracted to produce an updated Mineral Resource Estimate for the Lofdal 2B-4 project which is expected to be released by end-February 2024.

Table 1: Summary statistics of the 2023 infill and resource expansion drilling campaign at the Lofdal sub deposits Area 2B and Area 4

About Namibia Critical Metals Inc.

NCMI is developing the Tier-1 Heavy Rare Earth Project, Lofdal, a globally significant deposit of the heavy rare earth metals dysprosium and terbium. Demand for these critical metals used in permanent magnets for electric vehicles, wind turbines and other electronics is driven by innovations linked to energy and technology transformations. The geopolitical risks associated with sourcing many of these metals has become a repeated concern for manufacturers and end users. Namibia is a proven and stable mining jurisdiction.

The Lofdal Project is fully permitted with a 25-year Mining License and is under a Joint Venture Agreement with Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC).

The Company filed a robust updated PEA for "Lofdal 2B-4" on November 14, 2022, with a post-tax NPV of USD$391 million and an annual IRR of 28% with a capital expenditure of USD$207 million. The project is projected to generate a life of mine nominal cash flow of USD$698 million post-tax over a 16-year mine life.

About Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) and the JV

JOGMEC is a Japanese government independent administrative agency which seeks to secure stable resource supplies for Japan. JOGMEC has a strong reputation as a long term, strategic partner in mineral projects globally. JOGMEC facilitates opportunities with Japanese private companies to secure supplies of natural resources for the benefit of the country's economic development.

Rare earth elements are of critical importance to Japanese industrial interests and JOGMEC has extensive experience with all aspects of the sector. JOGMEC provided Lynas with USD$250,000,000 in loans and equity in 2011 to ensure supplies of the Light Rare Earths metals suite to the Japanese industry.

Namibia Critical Metals owns a 95% interest in the Lofdal project with the remaining 5% held for the benefit of historically disadvantaged Namibians. The terms of the JOGMEC joint venture agreement with the Company stipulate that JOGMEC provides C$3,000,000 in Term 1 and C$7,000,000 in Term 2 to earn a 40% interest in the Lofdal project. Term 3 calls for a further C$10,000,000 of expenditures to earn an additional 10% interest. JOGMEC can also purchase another 1% for C$5,000,000 and has first right of refusal to fully fund the project through to commercial production and to purchase all production at market prices. The collective interests of NCMI and historically disadvantaged Namibians cannot be diluted below a 26% carried working interest upon payment of C$5,000,000 to JOGMEC for the dilution protection. NMI may elect to participate up to a maximum of 44% by funding pro rata after the earn in period is completed.

To date, JOGMEC has completed Term 2 and earned a 40% interest by reaching the C$10 million expenditure requirement. JOGMEC has approved an additional C$1,800,000 budget for Term 3 through to March 31, 2024, totaling C$11,800,000.

Other exploration projects: The Company's Exclusive Prospecting Licenses ("EPLs") prospective for gold are located in the Central Namibian Gold Belt which hosts a number of significant orogenic gold deposits including the Navachab Gold Mine, the Otjikoto Gold Mine and the Twin Hills deposit. At the Erongo Gold Project, stratigraphic equivalents to the meta-sediments hosting the Osino gold discovery at Twin Hills have been identified and exploration is progressing over this highly prospective area. The Grootfontein Base Metal and Gold Project has potential for magmatic copper-nickel mineralization, Mississippi Valley-type zinc-lead-vanadium mineralization and Otjikoto-style gold mineralization.

Rainer Ellmies, PhD, MScGeol, EurGeol, AusIMM and Vice President of Namibia Critical Metals Inc., is the Company's Qualified Person and has reviewed and approved this press release.

The common shares of Namibia Critical Metals Inc. trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "NMI" and the OTCQB Market under the symbol "NMREF".

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For more information please contact -

Namibia Critical Metals Inc. Darrin Campbell, President

Tel: +01 (902) 835-8760

Email: [email protected] Web site: www.NamibiaCriticalMetals.com

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "would", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements 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.

SOURCE: Namibia Critical Metals Inc.

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TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 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 received a new AI-tool from its largest customer Amazon, and is integrating the tool into its 3D model production pipeline. The AI tool will be used for speeding up the Quality Assessment (QA) for 3D models. By streamlining and automating the quality checks performed by the Company's team of quality assessors, it will ultimately reduce the time it takes, thereby boosting revenue and profits through enhanced productivity and efficiency.

Major Benefits of the QA Tool

Cuts Quality Assessment time by 50%

Improves overall productivity by 35%

Reduces costs by 25%

Nextech3D.ai CEO Evan Gappelberg commented, "We are gratified and thrilled that Amazon has given us access to this AI Quality Assessment Tool. I see this tool as a game-changer for our 3D model production for Amazon. This AI powered technology will increase our productivity, allowing us to scale 3D model production, thus increasing the amount of revenue and profit we can generate. I believe this technology transfer was the last piece of the puzzle needed before they open seller central."



Historically, the Company had quality assessors meticulously scrutinize 3D models manually, examining every detail, color, and texture to ensure consistency and precision, which was very time consuming. Now with the introduction of this AI-Quality Assessment Tool, this process is expedited through AI automation; significantly reducing the time required for a thorough quality check.

Key Features:

Automated Quality Checks: The AI tool empowers the Company's quality assessors to leverage advanced automation for quicker and more efficient quality assessments. This automated process accelerates the turnaround time for creating high-quality 3D models. Enhanced Productivity: By cutting the manual quality assurance process in half, the AI tool directly correlates to a 50% increase in productivity. This allows the Nextech3D.ai team to focus on delivering exceptional 3D models while minimizing the time spent on QA tasks. Cost Reduction: The streamlined quality assessment process not only saves time, but also reduces costs for Nextech3D.ai. The Company estimates a cost reduction of approximately 25%. AI-Powered Precision: Leveraging the power of artificial intelligence, the tool ensures high-quality, detailed 3D models by automating checks for textures, color patterns, and inconsistencies. This guarantees that Amazon receives top-notch 3D models that meet its high industry standard.

With the recent pivot of its operations to Hyderabad India and this new AI Quality Assessment Tool, the Company is positioning itself for enhanced profitability, reduced costs, and increased productivity for years to come in a rapidly evolving 3D modeling market for the $5.5 trillion dollar ecommerce industry.

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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.

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

[email protected]

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

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GEORGETOWN, PULAU PINANG, MALAYSIA / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Quantum Metal Sdn. Bhd. (1011907U), a leading gold bullion distributor in Malaysia, proudly announces its outstanding financial performance, achieving a net profit of over RM400 million in the last fiscal year. Established on July 30, 2012, with a paid-up capital of RM10,000,000.00, Quantum Metal has emerged as a key player in the industry, providing 99.99% premium gold products to a diverse clientele, including government bodies, banks, financial institutions, merchants, and individual dealers.

About Quantum Metal Sdn. Bhd.

Quantum Metal Sdn. Bhd., wholly owned by QMEI , has solidified its position as one of Malaysia's largest gold bullion distributors. With a core business focused on delivering premium gold products, the company serves various sectors, including government entities, financial institutions, and individual dealers. The company's commitment to excellence and integrity has established it as a trusted partner in the Malaysian market.

Financial Success: Over RM400 Million in Net Profit

In the last financial year, Quantum Metal Malaysia, wholly owned by QMEI , achieved a remarkable net profit exceeding RM400 million. This accomplishment underscores the company's robust business model and its ability to navigate the complexities of the gold market. Despite economic uncertainties, Quantum Metal has demonstrated resilience and sound financial management, contributing significantly to the prosperity of its stakeholders.

Business Model and Market Presence

Quantum Metal 's business model plays a crucial role in reducing the risk for local banks. The company facilitates direct transactions between local banks and international bullion suppliers, including the prestigious PERTH MINT. By serving as a link between local banks and global suppliers, Quantum Metal ensures legal and secure transactions, fostering a conducive environment for gold trading in Malaysia.

The company's involvement in various sectors, from government bodies to individual dealers, highlights its versatility and commitment to making premium gold products accessible to a wide audience. Quantum Metal's innovative revenue-sharing model allows local banks to engage in gold trading without the burden of capital expenditure, as the company invests 100% in system and infrastructure development.

Leadership Insights: Dato' Lim Khong Soon

At the helm of Quantum Metal is Dato' Lim Khong Soon, an esteemed leader with over 20 years of experience. As the Founder and Group Managing Director, Dato' Lim has played a pivotal role in the company's success. His diverse background includes involvement in precision mold, electronic components, gold potassium cyanide for gold plating industries, and co-development of gold recovery from electronic waste with Inochem of South Africa since 2000.

Dato' Lim's expertise extends to precious metal recovery from electronic waste, refining impure gold from scrap and old jewellery, supplying gold to jewellery fabricators, and collaborating with Australian bullion bankers. His visionary leadership has also led to the development of an integrated system for Perth Mint to transact gold trading business with banks.

Continuous Innovation and Integration

Quantum Metal remains committed to innovation and efficiency. The company's continuous investments in providing the best Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) model and securing real-time online integration between local banks and Quantum Metal reflect its dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in the industry.

Future Endeavors and Commitment to Excellence

As Quantum Metal celebrates this significant financial milestone, the company looks ahead to future endeavours with a commitment to maintaining its position as a leader in the gold bullion distribution sector. Quantum Metal remains dedicated to providing exceptional value to its clients, stakeholders, and the Malaysian market as a whole.

About Quantum Metal Sdn. Bhd.

Quantum Metal Sdn. Bhd. (1011907U) is a prominent gold bullion distributor in Malaysia, established on July 30, 2012, with a paid-up capital of RM10,000,000.00. With a core business focused on providing 99.99% premium gold products to various sectors, including government bodies, banks, financial institutions, merchants, and individual dealers, Quantum Metal has become a trusted partner in the Malaysian market. Under the visionary leadership of Dato' Lim Khong Soon, the Founder and Group Managing Director, Quantum Metal continues to excel in the gold distribution industry, showcasing innovation, integrity, and financial success.

Media Contact

Organization: Quantum Metal

Contact Person: Dato Lim Khong Soon

Website: https://www.quantummetal.com.my/

Email: [email protected]

Contact Number: +60 3-8605 3611

City: Georgetown

State: Pulau Pinang

Country: Malaysia

SOURCE: Quantum Metal

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December, 6, 2023 / Ximen Mining Corp. (TSXV:XIM)(FRA:1XMA)(OTCQB: XXMMF) (the "Company" or "Ximen") announces initial information from its seventh drill hole at the Amelia Gold project in Camp McKinney near Rock Creek in southern BC.

Drilling at Amelia project in October 2023.

Drilling was done to prove-up extensions to the historic Cariboo-Amelia gold mine in Camp McKinney in the Greenwood Mining Division, BC. The Cariboo-Amelia mine was BC's first dividend paying gold mine. Over its 68-year history, the mine produced 81,602 ounces of gold and 32,439 ounces of silver from 112,254 tonnes milled (BC Minfile Records). The mine is situated within a 4-kilometer system of gold-quartz veins and historic workings.

View of 3D model of Cariboo mine (looking North) showing vein blocks and current drill holes.

The 2023 drill holes are testing the main McKinney vein beneath the eastern end of the historic mine. After the seventh drill holes was completed, a total of 1,846 meters of NQ sized core was drilled. The target vein was intersected in four holes (AM23-01, 03, 05 and 07) between 30 and 45 meters below the lowest mine level and over a strike length of 150 meters.

The mineralized intercepts range in core length from 0.26 meters to 0.70 meters and contain pyrite, sphalerite, galena and chalcopyrite. Although visible gold hasn't been observed, this sulphide mineral assemblage is the same as that reported to occur in the vein where it was mined historically. Core samples will be sent for analysis once the geological logging and sampling is completed.

Hole From To Length (m) Mineralization AM23-01 218.02 218.63 0.61 Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, Gn, Cp AM23-03 230.80 231.06 0.26 Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, Gn, Cp AM23-05 214.55 215.25 0.70 Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, Cp AM23-07 194.60 194.81 0.21 Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, Gn AM23-07 195.71 195.99 0.28 Quartz Vein with Py, Po, Sp, Gn AM23-07 215.47 215.66 0.19 Quartz Vein with Py, Sp, Gn AM23-07 217.64 217.76 0.32 Quartz Vein with Py, Po, Sp, Gn

Abbreviations: Py: pyrite, Sp: sphalerite, Gn: galena, Cp: chalcopyrite

Note: Reported lengths are core lengths not true widths.

Core Photos:

Close-up photo of sulphide mineralization intersected in holes AM23-07; galena, PbS (silvery grey) and sphalerite ZnS (brown). Width of view is about 10 cm.

Holes AM23-03, 04, 05 also intersected a second mineralized vein about 50 meters south of the main vein that is also mineralized with pathfinder minerals. Its extent has yet to be determined.

Holes AM23-02, 04 and 06 targeted the zone at greater depths but did not intersect the vein. It is likely that the vein has been displaced by faults similar to those which occur in the upper levels of the mine, where the vein is displaced a relatively short distance to the south by flat lying faults.

Overall, the results indicate there is potential for more tonnes to be mined below the lowest level of the mine workings and that there is potential for additional material in parallel zones.

Readers are cautioned that historical records referred to in this News Release have been examined but not verified by a Qualified Person. Further work is required to verify that historical records referred to in this News Release are accurate.

Dr. Mathew Ball, P.Geo., VP Exploration for Ximen Mining Corp. and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, approved the technical information contained in this News Release.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

"Christopher R. Anderson"

Christopher R. Anderson,

President, CEO and Director

604 488-3900

Investor Relations:

604-488-3900,

[email protected]

About Ximen Mining Corp.

Ximen Mining Corp. owns 100% interest in three of its precious metal projects located in southern BC. Ximen`s two Gold projects, The Amelia Gold Mine and The Brett Epithermal Gold Project. Ximen also owns the Treasure Mountain Silver Project adjacent to the past producing Huldra Silver Mine. Currently, the Treasure Mountain Silver Project is under an option agreement. The option partner is making annual staged cash and stocks payments as well as funding the development of the project. The company has also acquired control of the Kenville Gold mine near Nelson British Columbia which comes with surface and underground rights, buildings and equipment.

Ximen is a publicly listed company trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol XIM, in the USA under the symbol XXMMF, and in Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin Stock Exchanges in Germany under the symbol 1XMA and WKN with the number as A2JBKL.

This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the receipt of TSX Venture Exchange approval and the exercise of the Option by Ximen. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts; they are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "aims," "potential," "goal," "objective," "prospective," and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "can," "could" or "should" occur, or are those statements, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include the possibility that the TSX Venture Exchange may not accept the proposed transaction in a timely manner, if at all. The reader is urged to refer to the Company's reports, publicly available through the Canadian Securities Administrators' System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) at www.sedar.com for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any state in the United States in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Ximen Mining Corp.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. A service contract in the internal affairs bodies will be signed with personnel enrolled in special-purpose educational institutions at the bachelor's level, Trend reports.

This is reflected in the amendment to the "Regulations on Service in the Internal Affairs Bodies of the Republic of Azerbaijan" approved today by President Ilham Aliyev.

This agreement, according to the legislation, requires personnel in the aforementioned category to serve in internal affairs bodies for seven years after completing training. Those who do not wish to serve in the internal affairs bodies after completing their training or who leave the service in the internal affairs bodies of their own free will will be required to reimburse the expenses incurred for their training at the Ministry of Internal Affairs' special purpose educational institution.

The Police Academy of Azerbaijan's Ministry of Internal Affairs will define the form of the contract to be signed as well as the mechanism for calculating the expenses incurred.

In the event of a failure to pay voluntarily within the terms stipulated by the contract on service in the internal affairs bodies, the expenses incurred for the training of bachelors in the Ministry of Internal Affairs' higher special-purpose educational institution would be collected in court.

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TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Think Research Corporation (TSXV:THNK) ("Think" or the "Company"), a company focused on transforming healthcare through integrated digital health software solutions, today announced that on November 30, 2023, it granted 300,000 restricted share units (each, an "RSU") to a certain officer of the Company pursuant to the Company's Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan. Half of the RSUs will vest on November 30, 2024, and the balance will vest on November 30, 2025.

About Think Research Corporation

Think Research Corporation is an industry leader in delivering knowledge-based digital health software solutions. The Company's focused mission is to organize the world's health knowledge so everyone gets the best care. Its evidence-based healthcare technology solutions support the clinical decision-making process, standardize care, to facilitate better health care outcomes. The Company gathers, develops, and delivers knowledge-based solutions globally to customers which typically includes enterprise clients, hospitals, health regions, healthcare professionals, and / or governments. The Company has gathered a significant amount of data by building its repository of knowledge through its network and group of companies, including acquired companies.

Think licenses its solutions to over 13,000 facilities for over 300,000 primary care, acute care, and long-term care doctors, nurses and pharmacists that rely on the content and data provided by Think to support their practices. Millions of patients and residents annually receive better care due to the essential data that Think produces, manages and delivers.

In addition, the Company collects and manages pharmaceutical and clinical trial data via the BioPharma Services entity that Think acquired on September 10, 2021. BioPharma Services is a leading provider of bioequivalence and Phase 1 clinical research services to pharmaceutical companies globally. Think's other services include a network of digital-first primary care clinics and medical clinics that provide elective surgery. Visit: www.thinkresearch.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 responsibilities for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For more information: https://www.thinkresearch.com/ca/investors/

For further information: Mark Sakamoto, Executive Vice President, Think Research, 416.388.7119, [email protected]

SOURCE: Think Research

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Step out of the conventional European tourist attractions and check out unique activities around the country

MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / December 6, 2023 / Hungary is a must-see destination with endless hidden gems awaiting first-time and returning visitors. Attractions include the "Hungarian Sea," and exploring its UNESCO World Heritage Site, and more. Below is a bucket list of unique activities throughout Hungary, including hidden gems and lesser-known local secrets off-the-beaten-path.

Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton: Lake Balaton is the largest lake in Central Europe stretching over 50 miles on the western coastline of Hungary and is known as the Hungarian Sea. The north city along the river is Balatonfred, which offers a serene environment for those looking for a lakeside getaway. Badacsony, another town along the lake, is known for its vineyards and wine hotels, where visitors can taste various Hungarian wines, such as the local specialty, Olaszrizling. Further south of the lake is Siofok, which is a popular and easily accessible beach destination with a long boardwalk along the lakeshore that comes alive at night with various clubs and restaurants for partygoers.

Where: Lake Balaton, central Hungary. The lake is about 50 miles southwest of the country's capital city, Budapest. There are daily trains that take you directly from Budapest to the north-side stop of the lake (Balatonfured) and the south-side stop of the lake (Siofok).

Artful Scavenger Hunt: Street art is trendy around Budapest, and if you want to have a fun, little treasure hunt in the city center, you should check out the mini statues scattered around the city made by the famous guerrilla-art sculptor Mihaly Kolodko. These mini sculptures depict various themes from important figures in Hungarian history to cute cartooned animals. There are guided walking tours available to discover the art and life of the artist Kolodko.

Where: Scattered around Downtown Budapest.

Trekking in Aggtelek National Park and the Baradla Cave: Aggtelek National Park is the only nature site recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the country thus far. This national park covers an area of over 75 miles filled with wilderness, wildlife castles, forts, and caves. Aggtelek is home to over 280 caves below the park, including the incredible Baradla Cave, a vast cave system that crosses into Slovakia. The caves go for a little over 15 miles and have some caverns that are up to 26 feet high.

Where: Northern part of Hungary, along the border of Slovakia. It takes three hours to drive from Budapest to the park.

About Visit Hungary

The Hungarian Tourism Agency operates in international markets under the brand name Visit Hungary. Visit Hungary performs domestic and international sales and marketing communication tasks related to tourism, manages International Tourism Representation, executes image and product campaigns both in Hungary and abroad, produces tourism and image publications, conducts research and analysis in support of marketing communication activities, and participates in fairs and tourism trade fairs to promote domestic and foreign tourism. For more information, visit https://visithungary.com/.

Contact Information

Maria Alejandra Silva

[email protected]

SOURCE: Visit Hungary

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HANGZHOU, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- From November 21st to 23rd, 2023 Zhejiang International Trade (Morocco) Exhibition hosted by Zhejiang Provincial Department of Commerce was held in Casablanca, Morocco. This exhibition was held at the same time as the Africa Food Show organized by MIE Group. Thousands of bowls, tea, comprehensive food, food processing machinery and technology, small agricultural machinery, etc. in Baixian County, Zhejiang Province were displayed on the spot.

Morocco is a hub connecting the three major markets of the European Union, the Arab world and Africa, covering 1 billion consumer markets. There is an urgent demand for food products, processing technology, food processing machinery and technology, with huge market potential and broad cooperation space. In 2023 Zhejiang International Trade (Morocco) Exhibition, 63 enterprises from Hangzhou, Taizhou, Wenzhou and other places participated in the exhibition, and there were 90 booths with a total exhibition area of over 900 square meters. The exhibition provides an ideal B2B platform for global food and beverage suppliers, attracting wholesalers, retailers, importers and exporters, distributors, industry associations and organizations from Europe and Africa.

"China Food Tasting Zone" and "Weimei Zhejiang Exhibition Zone" were set up at the exhibition site. In the tasting area, China chefs who have been stationed in China for a long time are invited to cook cuisine, attracting many buyers to stop and taste, showing the "Chinese charm with the tip of the tongue" and enhancing the popularity of the exhibition site. Exhibitors tasted Osmanthus Jelly, Dingsheng cake, West Lake lotus root starch and other special foods from Hangzhou Zhiweiguan, a time-honored Chinese brand, as well as fine teas such as West Lake Longjing and Jiuqu Hongmei. "Weimei Zhejiang Exhibition Area" focuses on the gold business card of "Hundred Counties and Thousand Bowls" and the culture of Zhejiang yellow rice wine, and introduces traditional Zhejiang cuisine from the perspectives of entity dishes, production techniques and cultural stories. Attracting local merchants to stop and punch in and feel the charm of Zhejiang through various activities such as physical display, on-site cooking and tea performance.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231204785036/en/

Zhejiang Times International Exhibition Services Co., Ltd.

[email protected]

https://www.time-ex.com

8657187297482

Source: Zhejiang Times International Exhibition Services Co., Ltd.
DELRAY BEACH, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Starboard Foundation is thrilled to announce the 4th Annual Toy Drive Event, scheduled to take place on December 16th, 2023, at the Delray Hyatt Place in Delray Beach, FL. This year well be partnering with Wheels Wings & Fashion, Beatles on The Beach, Eat Better Live Better, The Ferris Foundation, VRC Events & Haven Health Management, bringing together the community for a night of giving back and spreading holiday cheer.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206245733/en/

Elyse Duff, William Cunningham, John Stevick. Owners of The Starboard Foundation. (Photo: Business Wire)

The Toy Drive Event, hosted by The Starboard Foundation, aims to bring joy to children in need and support local organizations that make a positive impact in the South Florida community. Attendees are encouraged to contribute by bringing a toy or donation to help make the holiday season brighter for children in need.

"We are excited to once again host our Annual Toy Drive Event and support Eat Better Live Better, and The Boys and Girls Club of Palm Beach County," said William Cunningham, Co-founder of The Starboard Foundation. "We believe that every child deserves to experience the joy of the holiday season, and through this event, we hope to bring smiles to the faces of many children in our community."

The event, which will run from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, promises to be a night filled with live music, free food, drinks, and exciting raffles. Attendees can look forward to a fun-filled evening with the community, enjoying giveaways and much more.

"We are so excited to partner with individuals and organizations that share our passion for giving back and making a positive impact," said Elyse Duff, Co-founder of The Starboard Foundation. "This event is not only about collecting toys, but also about coming together as a community to support those in need and spread holiday cheer."

The Starboard Foundation is also working on initiatives such as creating financial literacy books for children and providing affordable housing for underprivileged families, in addition to their Annual Toy Drive. The foundation is committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of those in need.

"We are grateful for the support of our sponsors and partners, including Wheels Wings & Fashion, Beatles on The Beach, Eat Better Live Better, The Ferris Foundation, VRC Events & Haven Health Management, who have joined us in this important cause," added John Stevick, Co-founder of The Starboard Foundation.

Sponsors of the event include Delray Hideaway, 3 Natives, La Cigale, Caffe Luna Rosa, Salt 7, Salty Dog Groomer, F45 Delray Beach, Spa Me Now, Legacy Barber Shop, Atlantic Avenue Yacht Club, Mr. Get Fit, Sazio Express, Cut 432, El Camino, Park Tavern, David Mancini & Sons, Bounce Nightclub, Coldwell Banker Realty Delray Beach, Sunbelt Title Delray Beach, Bar 25, Greene Construction Group, Dj Akib, Fire Island Beach House, & More Sponsors to Come! Their generosity has contributed to the success of this event.

The Starboard Foundation is dedicated to creating positive change and impacting the lives of those in need. The 4th Annual Toy Drive Event promises to be a memorable evening, uniting the community in the spirit of giving and support.

Event Details:

Date: December 16th, 2023

Time: 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Location: Delray Hyatt Place, 104 NE Second Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33444

For more information about The Starboard Foundation and the 4th Annual Toy Drive Event, please visit www.thestarboardfoundation.com.

Check out the announcement video.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206245733/en/

For media inquiries contact:

Diana London

[email protected]

The Starboard Foundation

William Cunningham III & Elyse Duff

Phone: 561-856-7982 or 631-275-7382

Email: [email protected]

Source: The Starboard Foundation
Creates Up To 50 Full-Time Professional Jobs In South Florida

MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- BNP Paribas Securities Corp., a unit of Europes leading bank BNP Paribas, today announces the official opening of its new Miami location with a ribbon cutting ceremony complete with speeches from national, state and local elected officials, Miami area trade groups, French trade and government representatives, senior BNP Paribas officials and staff, and others.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206473058/en/

Senior BNP Paribas executives including (Middle L-R) Annabella Espina, Miami office COO, Matt OConnor, Head of the new Miami office, Olivier Osty, Head of Global Markets, Jose Placido, US CEO, BNP Paribas and local elected officials and leaders including Laura DiBella of FloridaCommerce, Raphael Trapp, Consul General of France in Miami, and Rodrick Miller of the Miami-Dade Beacon Council among others, cut the ribbon officially opening the banks new offices in the Brickell Ave area of Miami. (Photo: Business Wire)

BNP Paribas also hosted a tour of its fully completed offices and in celebration of Art Basel Miami Beach art fair, currently being held in Miami, had an unveiling of the offices artwork created by Najja Moon, a rising local Miami artist supporting strong diversity, equity and inclusion ideals.

Jose Placido, Chief Executive Officer of BNP Paribas USA and CIB Americas, said: Todays Miami office opening expands our business in the US, notably our global markets business, and supports our global growth ambitions. Adding Miami as a key location for our corporate and institutional banking business will be an important part in getting closer to our many clients in the South Florida area and servicing their needs more efficiently.

Matt OConnor, Head of the BNP Paribas Miami office, said: Were very happy to officially open our brand new office in Miami today. I want to thank everyone whos helped BNP Paribas make this happen, including elected officials, trade groups, architects, BNP Paribas staff, and many others. We look forward to this new beginning, with a sustainably designed office and also developing a bigger partnership with the vibrant greater Miami community.

BNP Paribas Securities Corp.s Miami office is the latest example of the firms efforts to create best-in-class platforms and products for its increasing numbers of Miami-area clients, and focuses on equities, credit, and macro Global Markets products.

BNP Paribas has committed to invest into its Miami office project, creating up to 50 new, full-time, highly-specialized professional jobs in South Florida over the next year. The new location will accommodate staff and visiting clients with nearly 7,700 rentable square footage and is located at 801 Brickell Avenue in Miamis financial hub.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, said: BNP Paribas choosing Miami to open its newest office reinforces our communitys status as a top financial market within the global economy. Were proud to work with partners like the Miami-Dade Beacon Council to not only attract leaders like BNP Paribas to our market, but also help them tap into local talent and engage in our thriving business ecosystem. We look forward to having another of the largest banks in the world call Miami-Dade home.

Rodrick Miller, President & CEO, Miami-Dade Beacon Council, said: BNP Paribas' expansion to Miami is a direct outgrowth of our long-standing relationship with France, French companies and the French people. On our most recent mission, we heard consistently that Miami is the market where French companies are investing and want to be, and our relationship with Latin America and the Caribbean sealed Miami as the clear choice for BNP Paribas, Europes largest bank. This expansion is an important addition to our global finance sector, and we look forward to helping them source talent and engage deeply with Miami-Dades thriving business ecosystem.

Raphael Trapp, Consul General of France in Miami, said: The opening of an office of BNP Paribas in Miami is excellent news for the economic ties between France and Florida. It is, above all, a good indicator of the dynamism that characterizes business in South Florida thanks to the work done jointly by private and public partners for several years. Should this economic trend continue over time, it would allow the expansion of BNP Paribas office and the creation of more qualified jobs in Miami. It would also consolidate the position of France which is, currently, in the top 4 of foreign employers in Florida with more than 400 companies and 32, 700 jobs created by French companies.

Annabelle Ballot-Pottier, Executive Director of the French-American Chamber of Commerce Florida, said: "The French-American Chamber of Commerce Florida is proud to celebrate the opening of BNP Paribas' office in Miami, a significant symbol of economic recovery and the major role played by Florida in transatlantic exchanges. The entire team at FACC Florida is excited to see the French business community continue to thrive."

As BNP Paribas continues to pursue and execute on its growth ambitions in the region, the Miami campus will integrate seamlessly with the banks other offices in New York City, NY, Jersey City, NJ, and Chesterbrook, PA, outside Philadelphia, each with their own strong identity.

BNP Paribas employees are empowered to do their best work and be supported with active lifestyle amenities offered in the new office. The office features modern spaces, technology and a beautiful, natural environment.

Dawn Gunter, Office Director and Principal at Gensler Miami, said: "The new BNP Paribas is a testament to the resiliency of office in 2023 and beyond. The space is an investment in the South Florida marketplace, and above all, it underscores the firms commitment to serving their clients and supporting their talent. The Gensler Miami team is proud to have partnered with BNP Paribas to design this new workplace and demonstrate how thoughtful design can foster innovation and deepen client relationships.

In January 2023, BNP Paribas announced its intentions to open a Miami office, and in August 2023, the bank appointed Matt OConnor as Head of its new Miami office and Annabella Espina the Chief Operating Officer (COO).

About BNP Paribas in the US

BNP Paribas is a premier global banking partner and has built a strong and diversified presence and product suite in the United States (US) to help serve its clients in todays changing world. The bank employs over 3,500 people in the US across 10 states including Miami, FL. Large corporate and institutional clients are served by BNP Paribas Corporate & Institutional Banking franchise that has a presence in the main US cities, in addition to a wide international reach through a network of offices in EMEA and APAC. The bank also offers asset management services through BNP Paribas Asset Management as well as Real Estate and Fleet Services through partnerships. www.usa.bnpparibas.com

About BNP Paribas

BNP Paribas is the European Unions leading bank and key player in international banking. It operates in 65 countries and has nearly 185,000 employees, including more than 145,000 in Europe. The Group has key positions in its three main fields of activity: Commercial, Personal Banking & Services for the Groups commercial & personal banking and several specialised businesses including BNP Paribas Personal Finance and Arval; Investment & Protection Services for savings, investment and protection solutions; and Corporate & Institutional Banking, focused on corporate and institutional clients. Based on its strong diversified and integrated model, the Group helps all its clients (individuals, community associations, entrepreneurs, SMEs, corporates and institutional clients) to realise their projects through solutions spanning financing, investment, savings and protection insurance. In Europe, BNP Paribas has four domestic markets: Belgium, France, Italy and Luxembourg. The Group is rolling out its integrated commercial & personal banking model across several Mediterranean countries, Turkey, and Eastern Europe. As a key player in international banking, the Group has leading platforms and business lines in Europe, a strong presence in the Americas as well as a solid and fast-growing business in Asia-Pacific. BNP Paribas has implemented a Corporate Social Responsibility approach in all its activities, enabling it to contribute to the construction of a sustainable future, while ensuring the Group's performance and stability.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206473058/en/

Press:

BNP PARIBAS

Guy Taylor

+1 (332) 323-3704

[email protected]

Mylene Benmoussa

+1 (646) 322-5221

[email protected]

Source: BNP Paribas
Wins by AGCOs Fendt, Massey Ferguson and Precision Planting demonstrate consistent innovation focused on farmers.

DULUTH, Ga.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AGCO Corporation (NYSE: AGCO), a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of agricultural machinery and precision ag technology, announced today that six of its products and solutions have been recognized with prestigious 2024 AE50 awards from the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE). The AE50s recognize the industrys top new products and services for remarkable innovation, significant engineering advancement and impact on their markets. AGCOs 2024 awards span its Fendt, Massey Ferguson and Precision Planting brands, confirming consistent excellence across its product lines and cementing the company as agricultures leading innovator of farmer-focused solutions.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206827750/en/

AGCO announced that six of its products and solutions won the prestigious 2024 AE50 Award for innovation and engineering excellence. The companys brand-spanning winning products include (clockwise from upper-left) Massey Fergusons 3S and 9S series tractors, Fendts 200 and 600 Vario series tractors, Massey Fergusons 500R Series sprayer, and Precision Plantings SymphonyNozzle. (Photo: Business Wire)

AGCO is greatly honored by ASABEs recognition again this year, said Eric Hansotia, AGCO President, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer. Over the last three years, AGCO and our brands have earned 24 AE50 awards, confirming our position as an AE50 industry leader in innovation and engineering excellence that advances farmers capabilities, improves their operations and helps them feed the world.

AGCOs 2024 AE50-Winning Products Focused on Farmers Needs

The Fendt 200 Vario Series is the brands smallest tractor, but it combines all the world-class features Fendt customers expect of its larger tractors with versatility, lightweight maneuverability and high performance to deliver a feeling of ease, even in tough or unique crop conditions. Fendt 200 Vario tractors are available in North America in three models ranging from 94 to 114 rated horsepower and are available in a standard configuration or in three crop variants as the most advanced specialty tractor on the market today. The tractors are powered by the highly reliable AGCO Power 3.3 L engine and feature the unique Fendt Vario CVT, allowing operators to spend more time and effort focusing on the task at hand instead of shifting gears.

Fendts 600 Vario Series tractor features the all-new AGCO Power Core 50, 4-cylinder, 5.0-liter engine in four models from 164 to 224 maximum horsepower. Coupled with the intelligent Fendt VarioDrive CVT transmission, the tractors engine produces an efficient and easy-to-operate powertrain that will improve farm productivity. All models have Dynamic Performance (DP) capabilities, which allow the release of up to 15 additional horsepower with the use of smart sensors that determine power demand. The Fendt 600 Vario debuted at Agritechnica 2023 and will be available in North America in 2024.

The Massey Ferguson 500R Series sprayer is a straightforward, dependable and economical option for growers to help them take control of their chemical application, improve yields and reduce costs. The MF 500R comes standard with LiquidLogic, which ensures constant circulation through the entire system and offers boom clean out, product recovery and no spray priming capabilities, reducing costs and waste. Smart all-wheel drive (AWD) with the transmission management system allows the machine to operate at a lower engine RPM to save fuel while maintaining pump pressure and spray pattern, ground speed and hydraulic flow. The MF 500R rounds out a complete product lineup for Massey Ferguson from ground prep to harvesting.

The Massey Ferguson 3 Series Specialty tractors consist of seven models across three versions that focus on meeting the specific and rugged requirements of vineyards and fruit orchards at an affordable price. The MF 3 Series features Stage 5-compliant engines, transmissions with up to 30 speeds, a new operator interface and the brands global Saber styling scheme. The MF 3 Series offers a wide variety of power settings and modern specifications, including the 3VI.95 at widths down to 39.4 inches (1.0 meters), and the 3GE.95 and 3GE.105 with minimal steering wheel heights of 30.7 inches. The Massey Ferguson 3 Series Specialty tractors debuted at select farm shows across North America in 2023 and will be available in 2024 after World Ag Expo.

The Massey Ferguson 9S Series tractor expands the brands award-winning S Series into the 285-425 hp segment. The 9S provides a superior planting, baling and tillage solution with intuitive operation, ergonomics and increased dependability. The 9S 90 gallon-per-minute ECO pump delivers additional hydraulic flow to maximize Precision Planting components at a remarkable 1650 engine RPM, reducing fuel usage and cabin noise levels. The innovative Protect-U cab design produces a 69db cabin environment for comfortable and straightforward operation. The 9S improved turning axle achieves a 10% improvement in turning radius for more efficient turning on the headlands, which saves operator time and reduces soil impact. The Massey Ferguson 9S tractor debuted at Agritechnica 2023 and will be available in North America in 2024.

Precision Plantings SymphonyNozzle is a pulse width modulation system (PWM) that allows for independent rate and pressure control in self-propelled or pull-type sprayers. These capabilities allow for a consistent droplet size to be maintained across the field regardless of changes to rate or operating speed, providing consistent spraying efficacy across the entire field. SymphonyNozzles design enables farmers to retrofit existing sprayers that have traditional nozzles into more accurate PWM systems. The nozzle is easy to install and simple to service and uses point-to-point electronic architecture as opposed to large harnesses on each half of the sprayer. The SymphonyNozzle body is toolless to disassemble for easy cleanout and replacement is easy. Check valves can also be moved to either side of the nozzle body without tools for further ease of installation.

Fendt, LiquidLogic, Massey Ferguson, and Vario are registered trademarks of AGCO. AGCO Power, Protect-U, and VarioDrive are trademarks of AGCO. Precision Planting is a registered trademark of Precision Planting LLC. SymphonyNozzle is a trademark of Precision Planting LLC.

About AGCO

AGCO (NYSE: AGCO) is a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of agricultural machinery and precision ag technology. AGCO delivers customer value through its differentiated brand portfolio, including core brands like Fendt, GSI, Massey Ferguson, Precision Planting, and Valtra. Powered by Fuse smart farming solutions, AGCOs full line of equipment and services help farmers sustainably feed our world. Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Duluth, Georgia, USA, AGCO had net sales of approximately $12.7 billion in 2022. For more information, visit www.AGCOcorp.com. For company news, information, and events, please follow us on Twitter: @AGCOCorp. For financial news on Twitter, please follow the hashtag #AGCOIR.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206827750/en/

Bob Blakely, AGCO | [email protected]

Source: AGCO Corporation
AMSTERDAM--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) of aa (Superior) of Caisse Centrale de Reassurance (CCR) (France). The outlook of the FSR is stable, while the outlook of the Long-Term ICR is negative. Concurrently, AM Best has withdrawn these Credit Ratings (ratings) as the company has requested to no longer participate in AM Bests interactive rating process.

The ratings reflect CCRs balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its marginal operating performance, favourable business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management. The ratings also consider, in the form of rating lift, the explicit unlimited guarantee provided by the Republic of France to CCRs state-backed business.

The negative outlook of CCRs Long-Term ICR reflects deterioration in the creditworthiness of the Republic of France, from which CCR receives rating lift.

The balance sheet strength assessment reflects CCRs very strong level of risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Bests Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). The balance sheet strength assessment also reflects CCRs liquid and high-quality investment portfolio.

CCRs operating performance remains supportive of a marginal assessment. Since 2017, significant weather-related natural catastrophe events have generated several loss-heavy years, which have translated to a weighted average combined ratio of 114% for the five-year period ending in 2022 (as calculated by AM Best, before movement in equalisation reserves). Prospective performance remains subject to volatility given the nature of the business written.

CCRs favourable business profile assessment reflects the role the company plays in the French public reinsurance regime and its unique position as the principal reinsurer of natural catastrophe risks underwritten in France, with an estimated market share of over 90%. CCRs market offering of a 50% quota share, supplemented by an optional, unlimited stop loss treaty, is considered a competitive advantage.

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Bests website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Bests Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Bests Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Bests Credit Ratings, Bests Performance Assessments, Bests Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Bests Ratings & Assessments.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright  2023 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206983089/en/

Morgane Hillebrandt

Senior Financial Analyst

+31 20 308 5422

[email protected]

Christopher Sharkey

Associate Director, Public Relations

+1 908 882 2310

[email protected]

Mathilde Jakobsen

Senior Director, Analytics

+31 20 308 5427

[email protected]

Al Slavin

Senior Public Relations Specialist

+1 908 882 2318

[email protected]

Source: AM Best
Supporting Academic Excellence in Project Management

LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Association for Project Management (APM) has welcomed a rising number of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) which offer APM accredited academic courses in project management. There are now 42 accredited degrees and courses - those which demonstrate alignment to the APM Body of Knowledge, a practical resource which outlines concepts and terms used within the project management community - and 11 universities across the UK which have gained APMs newest course recognition, recognised assessment, demonstrating their courses meets either the technical knowledge or the technical knowledge and professional practice criteria needed to achieve the Chartered Standard for project professionals.

With a rapid growth of projects being undertaken across the globe it means that project management professionals are in high demand, and project related skills and techniques must develop at pace. Some of the most popular sectors with opportunities for project managers include technology, construction, manufacturing, engineering and finance, but there are many other sectors where project management skills are also vital.

Aspiring project managers choosing project management education in the UK through HEIs including universities and colleges to support and progress their careers, can be safe in the knowledge that many have been formally accredited by APM, the only chartered membership organisation in the world representing the project profession. APM is at the forefront of raising awareness and understanding of the professionalisation of project management across all industry sectors.

HEIs awarded with academic accreditation and recognised assessment will be provided with specific APM accreditation logos which they can use on their website and other promotional materials, and other joint marketing opportunities. They will also have access to a prominent and growing accredited HEI network. Students who complete an academic accredited course can also apply for full membership of APM through a preferential route. Those that hold a recognised assessment will also be able to apply for full membership as well as for Chartered status either through Route 1 or Route 2.

Since the launch of APM's chartered standard in 2017, organisations including HEIs can also link their assessments to the chartered standard through the Recognised Assessment Scheme. This means that anyone who has successfully passed a recognised assessment may apply to become a Chartered Project Professional (ChPP).

UK based Arden University currently offers two academic accredited courses - the MSc Project Management and BSc Project Management which is one of the latest CHPP recognised assessments offered by an HEI.

Paul Moses, Lecturer at the School of Supply Chain, Logistics and Project Management at Arden University said: Having APM accreditation status is a Herzberg hygiene factor now for most universities. The status isnt something to attract students, its expected and not having it drives away potential students. Its a mark of assurance that the degree is recognised by the industry and the knowledge theyll gain aligns with the needs of employers.

The recognised assessment represents a competitive advantage for the university to attract students but more importantly for our graduates in the employment market. Project Management especially is an industry driven field, if a university isnt accredited then it would be very hard to argue its teaching skills needed for a professional workplace.

APM is the leading professional body in the UK and has ever increasing global recognition. We have distance learning students all over the world who see the APM accreditation as something that makes them stand out in their home marketplace when applying for roles. Having our BSc syllabus be recognised as meeting all the aspects needed for the knowledge section of the application was really rewarding. Our graduates now benefit from a speedy route to ChPP.

A BSc Project Management graduate from Arden University said: If the course isnt accredited then Id be asking why not? I would be concerned that I would be missing out on areas of knowledge or quality or relevance to the industry. Im aiming to become the first ChPP in my organisation and use that to grow my career.

Dina Khalidi, Head of Business Development at APM says: Having accreditation by the only chartered membership organisation for the project professional really helps instil confidence in prospective students and teaching staff; its a mark of quality for those looking to access the best in education and professional development.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206654020/en/

For further information contact the APM Accreditation team - [email protected]

Source: Association for Project Management
Developer working toward first delivery of clean energy to 30,000 homes and businesses from first large-scale offshore wind farm in the United States

Once fully operational, Vineyard Wind 1 will deliver 806 Megawatts, enough to power 400,000 homes and businesses

BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Avangrid, Inc. (NYSE: AGR), a leading sustainable energy company and member of the Iberdrola Group, today announced that it has installed the first five GE Haliade-X turbines for the nation-leading Vineyard Wind 1 project, a critical milestone as the companies prepare to deliver the first power from the project to the electric grid in Massachusetts. Once energized in the coming weeks, Vineyard Wind 1, the first large-scale offshore wind project in the United States, will deliver approximately 65 Megawatts of clean energy from five GE Haliade-X turbines, enough to power 30,000 homes and businesses in Massachusetts. Vineyard Wind 1 is an 806 Megawatt project, and when fully operational will generate enough clean electricity to power 400,000 homes and businesses in the Commonwealth.

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GE Haliade-X Turbines Stand in the Vineyard Wind 1 Project Area South of Marthas Vineyard. Photo Credit: Worldview Films

Our team has worked tremendously hard, through nights, weekends, and holidays to put us in the position to deliver the first power from Avangrids nation-leading Vineyard Wind 1 project before the end of the year, said Avangrid CEO Pedro Azagra. Today, we have fully installed the first five turbines of this historic project, representing a new frontier for climate action and the clean energy revolution in the United States. We look forward to working through the final technical requirements and flipping the switch to deliver these first green electrons to 30,000 homes and businesses in Massachusetts, proving that with skill, expertise, and perseverance, the dream of offshore wind in America is real.

Once energized, the power from the first five turbines will interconnect to the New England grid in Barnstable, transmitted by underground cables that connect to a substation further inland on Cape Cod. Once completed, the project will consist of 62 wind turbines to generate 806 Megawatts, enough to power more than 400,000 homes and businesses in Massachusetts.

Before generating first power, Avangrid must complete several critical tests and technical milestones, including final testing of the array and export cables, and energization of the offshore substation which is one of the largest built in the global offshore industry. Vineyard Wind 1 remains on track to deliver first power before the end of the year.

"The Environmental League of Massachusetts is thrilled to see this tremendous milestone and strong momentum toward delivering the first large-scale offshore wind power to the New England grid," said Elizabeth Turnbull Henry, President of the Environmental League of Massachusetts. "The Commonwealth is a leader in growing the offshore wind industry at the pace and scale necessary to address the climate crisis. Offshore wind is the single biggest lever we can pull to address the climate crisis while strengthening our regional economy, protecting ratepayers, improving public health, and creating high-quality jobs and equitable access to economic opportunity. ELM commends Avangrid and CIP for their determination in bringing Vineyard Wind 1 online and demonstrating a path forward for New England to equitably and responsibly achieve carbon neutrality."

It's incredibly exciting that Vineyard Wind is on the verge of generating offshore wind power for regular people. This will forever change how we think about power production in the U.S., unlocking a major source of electricity in the Northeast that can be copied by other coastal regions, said Joe Curtatone, Presidents of the Northeast Clean Energy Council. Avangrid deserves enormous credit for overcoming all of the barriers that stood in the way of this project. The first one is always the hardest. Now everyone gets to see that it can be done.

From the outset of this project, Vineyard Wind recognized the importance of building and supporting a workforce of local, highly skilled and diverse tradespeople. The valuable collaboration with union leadership on this project is a prime example of how this new industry can be a responsive member of the communities it serves, ensuring accessible and family-sustaining careers.

Vineyard Wind began offshore construction in late 2022, achieved steel-in-the-water in June, and completed the nations first offshore substation in July. Construction flows through the New Bedford Marine Commerce Terminal. In July 2021, Vineyard Wind signed the first Project Labor Agreement for an offshore wind project in the United States, which outlined the creation of 500 union jobs though the project.

An 806-megawatt project located 15 miles off the coast of Marthas Vineyard, Vineyard Wind will generate electricity for more than 400,000 homes and businesses in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, create 3,600 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) job years, save customers $1.4 billion over the first 20 years of operation, and is expected to reduce carbon emissions by more than 1.6 million metric tons per year, the equivalent of taking 325,000 cars off the road annually.

About Avangrid: Avangrid, Inc. (NYSE: AGR) aspires to be the leading sustainable energy company in the United States. Headquartered in Orange, CT with approximately $41 billion in assets and operations in 24 U.S. states, Avangrid has two primary lines of business: networks and renewables. Through its networks business, Avangrid owns and operates eight electric and natural gas utilities, serving more than 3.3 million customers in New York and New England. Through its renewables business, Avangrid owns and operates a portfolio of renewable energy generation facilities across the United States. Avangrid employs more than 7,500 people and has been recognized by JUST Capital in 2021, 2022 and 2023 as one of the JUST 100 companies  a ranking of Americas best corporate citizens. In 2023, Avangrid ranked first within the utility sector for its commitment to the environment. The company supports the U.N.s Sustainable Development Goals and was named among the Worlds Most Ethical Companies in 2023 for the fifth consecutive year by the Ethisphere Institute. Avangrid is a member of the group of companies controlled by Iberdrola, S.A. For more information, visit www.avangrid.com.

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Media:

Avangrid

Craig Gilvarg

[email protected]

(857) 998-1130

Source: AVANGRID, Inc.
Announcements made in joint press conference with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Banc of California, Inc. (NYSE: BANC) has designated Los Angeles as its new headquarters and has contributed $1 million to help small businesses thrive, CEO Jared Wolff announced today at a joint press conference with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

As a native Angeleno, I know the power and promise of Los Angeles and the entrepreneurs and businesses that make it great, said Wolff. As Californias leading business bank, we are designating Los Angeles as our headquarters to further serve this vibrant business community.

Los Angeles is open for business, and City Hall will advocate to make it easier for businesses to open, expand and thrive, said Mayor Bass, who was joined by Los Angeles City Council President Paul Krekorian, Councilwoman Traci Park, and Deputy Mayor for Business and Economic Development Rachel Freeman. When you make a change, you see results, and one of those results is that Banc of California is now here in Los Angeles.

At the event, Wolff also announced a $1 million donation from Banc of California to the Mayors Contract Financing Assistance Program (CFAP), which provides financing options for small- and medium-sized businesses so they can more easily compete for government contracts.

In recognition of our partnership with the city, Banc of California is very pleased to make a $1 million contribution to Mayor Bass Contract Financing Assistance Program, Wolff added. We are proud to provide small- and medium-sized businesses with the financial support that will help them compete for government contracts. Banc of California looks forward to serving all of our communities with creative financial solutions that create jobs, drive business forward, and enrich the communities where we live and work.

The public sector typically pays contractors at the end of a project, making it difficult for smaller businesses to compete for government contracts. By using the project agreement as collateral, the CFAP enables these businesses to access capital via low-interest loans before the project is completed. This alleviates cash flow concerns so that smaller companies can pursue government contracts and grow. Banc of Californias contribution to the CFAP will expand the current program beyond construction contracts and create a fund that will provide access to low-interest loans for small businesses. The fund will launch in early 2024 and will be advantageous to businesses looking to compete for new contracts around the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.

I just want to thank Jared Wolff again because one of the main complaints small businesses have  especially in doing business with the city or with the public sector  is the reimbursement process, added Mayor Bass. This million dollars, which will begin us launching this loan fund, really will make a difference between businesses being able to survive and businesses being able to do business with the city of Los Angeles. This is a huge deal: One, for you to move your headquarters here, and two, to give a jumpstart to small businesses who want to work with the public sector.

Banc of Californias headquarters was formerly in Santa Ana, California. The company opened an office in the Los Angeles community of Brentwood in 2021. Designating Los Angeles as headquarters comes on the heels of the companys successful close of its transformational merger with PacWest Bancorp on November 30. The combined company retains the Banc of California name and is now the third-largest bank headquartered in California. It is also one of the nations premier relationship-focused business banks.

The press conference was held in front of the Banc of California headquarters located at 11611 San Vicente Blvd. in Los Angeles.

For photos of the event, please visit: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/506trardx0oi6l6h3e00b/h?rlkey=8ysscid1jz5rjn4l6xahcg35e&dl=0

About Banc of California, Inc.

Banc of California, Inc. (NYSE: BANC) is a bank holding company headquartered in Los Angeles with one wholly-owned banking subsidiary, Banc of California (the bank), and approximately $36 billion in assets. Banc of California is one of the nations premier relationship-based business banks focused on providing banking and treasury management services to small-, middle-market, and venture-backed businesses. Banc of California offers a broad range of loan and deposit products and services through more than 70 full-service branches throughout California and in Denver, Colorado, and Durham, North Carolina, as well as full-stack payment processing solutions through its subsidiary, Deepstack Technologies. The bank is committed to its local communities by supporting organizations that provide financial literacy and job training, small business support, affordable housing, and more. For more information, please visit us at www.bancofcal.com.

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Debora Vrana

Mobile: 213-999-4141

[email protected]

Jenn Saylors

Mobile: 310-926-9563

[email protected]

Source: Banc of California, Inc.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. A procedure for calculating the cost of teaching bachelors at the Ministry of Internal Affairs' Police Academy will be developed, Trend reports.

This is reflected in the law "On Amendments to the "Regulations on Service in the Internal Affairs Bodies of the Republic of Azerbaijan" approved by the relevant decree of President Ilham Aliyev.

According to the decree, the Cabinet of Ministers within three months must approve the procedure for calculating the costs of training bachelors at the Police Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and inform the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Within three months, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Azerbaijan must approve the form of the agreement on service in the internal affairs bodies with persons who will be enrolled in full-time study at the bachelor's level at the Police Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Azerbaijan based on full secondary education or secondary special education, and inform the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

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TORONTO & PURCHASE, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Brim Financial, one of the fastest growing Credit-Card-as-a-Service companies, today announced a strategic partnership with Mastercard, designed to power innovation in credit card platforms in the U.S. Brim will also embed Mastercards open banking capabilities across its end-to-end platform.

The introduction of a more robust, modern credit card platform enables U.S. financial institutions, fintechs, regional and community banks and large brands to provide their customers with a more seamless payment experience, while minimizing the challenges that come with building and maintaining advanced technology independently.

There is significant momentum happening now in the U.S. market when it comes to innovating credit card infrastructure across consumer, small- and medium-sized business and commercial segments, explains Rasha Katabi, Founder and CEO of Brim Financial. This partnership with Mastercard will be transformational for companies seeking a sophisticated, modern credit card platform to better serve their customers.

Brims modular platform is designed to significantly accelerate deployment and fully empower institutions to run and evolve their product platforms, per their customer and market needs.

The inclusion of Mastercards open banking capabilities within the Brim platform adds to its extensive suite of embedded payments capabilities designed to deliver turnkey solutions for all types of companies looking to launch and run commercial and consumer credit cards.

"In partnership with Brim, were able to help our customers and partners remain competitive, with innovative payment solutions that create seamless, secure experiences, said Hunter Woolley, EVP, North America Business Development at Mastercard.

Brim is a leading provider of financial technology platforms (PaaS) for financial institutions, fintechs and major brands. Brims Credit-Card-as-a-Service was ranked by Aite-Novarica Group as best-in-class for product capabilities in its analysis of the global landscape of Credit-Card-as-a-Service providers.

To learn more about Brim Financial, please visit: www.brimfinancial.com

To learn more about Mastercard, please visit: www.mastercard.com

About Brim Financial

Brim Financial is one the fastest growing enterprise technology companies, according to Deloittes Technology Fast 50 in North America. Brim's Credit-Card-as-a-Service has been recognized as best-in-class for product capabilities by Aite-Novarica Group in their analysis of global Credit-Card-as-a-Service providers. Brims robust platform and feature-rich products deliver a broad suite of payment solutions for Businesses and Consumers as well as comprehensive Enterprise Workflows. To learn more, visit www.brimfinancial.com.

About Mastercard

Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all. www.mastercard.com

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Media:

Brim Financial

Nina Godard

[email protected]

416-455-6324

Source: Brim Financial
BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Community Technology Cooperative (CTC) is celebrating the anniversary of a journey it began a year ago to advance health equity in community health centers through the implementation and installation of the industry leading software platform Epic, in 12 facilities across Massachusetts.

This technological upgrade, done in partnership with the leaders of those community health centers, is positively impacting health care outcomes for their thousands of members on a daily basis.

Our decision to implement Epic was driven by our vision: To improve health and equity for under-resourced communities through technology, said Karen Serrago, Chief Information Officer at Community Technology Cooperative. Epic has transformed daily operations, enhanced efficiencies, streamlined processes, and provided our health centers with valuable insights to improve patient care.

CTC remains dedicated to maximizing the full potential of Epic for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Future plans include the expansion of its patient portal to Portuguese, leveraging AI to improve clinician efficiency, and enabling direct scheduling for patients.

We are also investing heavily in expanding our population health capabilities and reporting in areas of special interest to health centers, such as care management and FQHC-specific categories, such as UDS, said Serrago.

Implementing Epic with CTC has given us a wealth of new and real-time information to improve patient care. Thats incredibly important, said Maria Celli, Deputy CEO, Brockton Neighborhood Health Center, Board Chair at CTC, and CTCs representative on Epics FQHC Advisory Council. Equally important, we are an active participant in shared decision-making because all CTC customers have a seat on the Board.

ABOUT COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY COOPERATIVE (CTC)

Community Technology Cooperative (CTC) is a non-profit, FQHC-governed subsidiary of Community Care Cooperative (C3). CTC currently has 12 FQHCs that live on Epic, providing more than 1.5 million ambulatory, dental, behavioral health, vision, and other visits and more than 300,000 prescription dispenses. Our goal is to deliver a best-in-class Epic experience for health centers, their value-based contract goals, and their diverse communities of patients.

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Paul Fleming

Marketing and Communications Manager

978-683-0358

[email protected]

https://www.communitycarecooperative.org/

Source: Community Technology Cooperative
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News:

The first test flight to demonstrate the potential for converting Methanol to SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) has taken place in Dubai on the sidelines of COP28 in the UAE. Masdar, TotalEnergies (Paris: TTE) (LSE: TTE) (NYSE: TTE), the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, Airbus, Falcon Aviation Services and technology licensor Axens all contributed to the successful flight.

The Alcohol-to-Jet Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene pathway (ATJ-SPK) has been certified in 2016 as meeting international standards for jet fuel, however Methanol is not in the list of specified alcohols. The flight, which used a blend of aviation fuel made from olefins, will help support the certification of this new pathway for SAF production from methanol.

With the potential to be derived from renewable electricity, the new pathway could lead to eSAF, an essential lever to meet the challenge of producing SAF worldwide to decarbonize aviation.

The launch of the (Dubai Framework) for Sustainable Aviation Fuel, represented an important step on the path towards a more sustainable future in aviation. This test flight demonstrates the shared ambition of Masdar and TotalEnergies to advance the development of SAF and provide another option in ongoing efforts to decarbonize the aviation industry. SAF has huge potential for reducing the hard-to-abate aviation sectors carbon emissions and Masdar is proud to support the development and growth of this sector. It is a sign of our commitment that we have forged several strategic partnerships in this area, said Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar.

"TotalEnergies is delighted to have initiated this scouting effort together with Masdar. As industry and energy companies, our collective job is to work on the next generation of clean aviation fuels that could complement SAF currently produced from used cooking oil. This novel pathway to jet, through e-SAF, is critical to support the decarbonization of the aviation industry, said Patrick Pouyanne, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TotalEnergies.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

Sustainable aviation fuel is an immediately available solution for significantly reducing the CO2 emissions of air transportation. It can be used as a drop-in fuel without modifying existing storage and refueling infrastructure, aircraft or engines. Gradual incorporation worldwide should help significantly lower the CO2 emissions of air transportation since, on average, biojet fuel produces an average of 80 per cent fewer CO2 emissions over its lifecycle when produced from waste and residue. eSAF, synthetic fuel derived from renewable energy, is compatible with jet engines and offers a similar performance to fossil fuels.

***

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, more sustainable, 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

About Masdar

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) is the UAEs 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.

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 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).

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TotalEnergies

Media Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 99 l [email protected] l @TotalEnergiesPR

Investor Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 46 l [email protected]

For Masdar media inquiries, please contact: [email protected]

For more information please visit: http://www.masdar.ae and connect: facebook.com/masdar.ae and twitter.com/masdar

Source: TOTALENERGIES SE
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Jabil Inc. (NYSE: JBL), a manufacturing solutions company, today announced it will release its first quarter of fiscal year 2024 financials on Thursday, December 14, 2023, before the market opens.

The company will host a conference call and webcast to review the results on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. ET.

What: Jabils First Quarter of Fiscal Year 2024 Conference Call and Webcast

When: Thursday, December 14, 2023  8:30 a.m. ET

Dial-in: U.S. (877) 407-6184 or International (201) 389-0877

To access the live audio webcast and the accompanying slide presentation, visit the Investor Relations section of Jabils website, located at https://investors.jabil.com. An archived replay of the webcast will be available after completion of the call.

About Jabil:

Jabil (NYSE: JBL) is a manufacturing solutions provider with over 250,000 employees across 100 locations in 30 countries. The world's leading brands rely on Jabil's unmatched breadth and depth of end-market experience, technical and design capabilities, manufacturing know-how, supply chain insights, and global product management expertise. Driven by a common purpose, Jabil and its people are committed to making a positive impact on their local community and the environment. Visit www.jabil.com to learn more.

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Investor Contact:

Adam Berry

Vice President, Investor Relations

[email protected]

Source: Jabil, Inc.
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- KBRA assigns issuer and senior unsecured debt ratings of BBB to Goldman Sachs Private Credit Corp. (GSCR or the company). The rating Outlook is Stable.

Key Credit Considerations

The ratings and Outlook are supported by Goldman Sachs Private Credit Corp.s ties to Goldman Sachs' (GS) $3 trillion of Assets Under Supervision, including the $55 billion global senior direct lending platform that allows for SEC exemptive relief to co-invest with GS affiliates. GS provides the company with access to capital through its significant wealth channels of $900+ billion, robust deal sourcing and research, a 400+ sponsor network, and strong banking relationships. Additionally, the company has a solid management team, which has a long track record working with the private debt markets with each member of senior management having 20 or more years of experience in the industry. Also, the ratings are supported by GSCRs $1.2 billion investment portfolio comprised almost entirely of first lien senior secured loans (98.3%), including broadly syndicated loans (BSLs). The company intends to maintain a minimum of 90% of its investment portfolio in first lien senior secured debt. As of September 30, 2023, the average portfolio company EBITDA was $116 million and the weighted average leverage was 5.5x with interest coverage of 1.5x using current base rates. At 3Q23, the top four portfolio sectors were Software (22.0%), Diversified Consumer Services (9.6%), Diversified Financial Services (8.6%), and Media (7.0%). With an unseasoned portfolio, there were no non-accruals, as of September 30, 2023. Leverage was only 0.22x, reflective of the companys strong capital raises of +$100 million per month and its conservative investment deployment. GSCR targets its leverage at 1.0x, lower than its peers, though appropriate for a perpetual BDC that requires more liquidity for potential redemptions. The companys funding profile is fully secured and includes two bank facilities with $736 million of credit availability. GSCR plans to issue senior unsecured debt when market opportunities allow with a target of 60% unsecured debt to total debt outstanding over the next several years.

GSCR is structured as a continuously offered, perpetual private BDC that does not intend to seek a liquidity event. As a continuously offered BDC, GSCR raises capital monthly and offers up to 5% of its shares for repurchase quarterly. Share repurchases are at the direction of the Board of Directors and should markets become disrupted, such that the companys business would be severely affected by repurchases, the company has no obligation to repurchase any shares. As of November 1, 2023, the company has raised gross proceeds of approximately $1.4 billion with no shares tendered. GS committed $100 million to GSCR with $50 million drawn. To ensure sufficient liquidity for repurchases, the company maintains sufficient cash, available credit lines, and more liquid investments, such as BSLs, which comprised about 25% of total investments, as of September 30, 2023.

The rating strengths are counterbalanced by the potential risk related to the companys illiquid investments, fully secured funding profile, and retained earnings constraints as a Regulated Investment Company (RIC).

GSCR is an externally managed, non-diversified closed-end management investment company that has elected to be treated as a Business Development Company (BDC) under the 1940 Act and intends to elect to be treated as an RIC, which among other things, must distribute to its shareholders at least 90% of the companys investment company taxable income. The company was formed as a Delaware Corporation in March 2022, began investing activities in April 2023, and is managed by Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. (GSAM), an affiliate of Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC. The companys public BDC, Goldman Sachs BDC, Inc. (NYSE: GSBD) is rated by KBRA (Issuer and Senior Unsecured Debt: BBB/Stable).

Rating Sensitivities

Over the medium term, a rating upgrade is not expected. A rating downgrade and/or Outlook change to Negative from Stable could be considered if there is a significant downturn in the U.S. economy with negative impact on GSCRs earnings performance, asset quality, and leverage. A significant change in senior management and/or risk management policies could also lead to negative rating action.

To access rating and relevant documents, click here.

Methodologies

Financial Institutions: Finance Company Global Rating Methodology

ESG Global Rating Methodology

Disclosures

A description of all substantially material sources that were used to prepare the credit rating and information on the methodology(ies) (inclusive of any material models and sensitivity analyses of the relevant key rating assumptions, as applicable) used in determining the credit rating is available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) located here.

Information on the meaning of each rating category can be located here.

Further disclosures relating to this rating action are available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) referenced above. Additional information regarding KBRA policies, methodologies, rating scales and disclosures are available at www.kbra.com.

About KBRA

Kroll Bond Rating Agency, LLC (KBRA) is a full-service credit rating agency registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as an NRSRO. Kroll Bond Rating Agency Europe Limited is registered as a CRA with the European Securities and Markets Authority. Kroll Bond Rating Agency UK Limited is registered as a CRA with the UK Financial Conduct Authority. In addition, KBRA is designated as a designated rating organization by the Ontario Securities Commission for issuers of asset-backed securities to file a short form prospectus or shelf prospectus. KBRA is also recognized by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners as a Credit Rating Provider.

Doc ID: 1002730

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Analytical Contacts

Teri Seelig, Managing Director (Lead Analyst)

+1 646-731-2386

[email protected]

Claudia McPherson, Senior Director

+1 646-731-2493

[email protected]

Joe Scott, Senior Managing Director (Rating Committee Chair)

+1 646-731-2438

[email protected]

Business Development Contact

Constantine Schidlovsky, Senior Director

+1 646-731-1338

[email protected]

Source: Kroll Bond Rating Agency, LLC
TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Asian Productivity Organization (APO) released the APO Productivity Databook 2023, an annual publication that provides an extensive compilation of productivity statistics and trends in the Asia-Pacific. It offers detailed analyses of productivity and economic growth patterns, helping stakeholders understand the current landscape and make informed decisions. The databook's rigorous methodology and data collection standards ensure its reputation as a reliable resource for anyone interested in the economic progress of Asian countries.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205691972/en/

Example of data from the APO Productivity Databook 2023: Figure 5.13 Half-Century Total Factor Productivity index by Country, 1970-2021 (Graphic: Business Wire)

Essential for data-driven decision-making, the APO Productivity Databook assists policymakers, business leaders, and researchers in economic planning, benchmarking national productivity against regional and global standards, and identifying growth opportunities and challenges.

Key Highlights of the APO Productivity Databook 2023

Twenty-one APO member profiles and five regional profiles with productivity indicators.

Introduces new methodologies, such as capitalization of mineral and energy resources (MER) and improved estimates of land stock and labor quality.

Economic Growth Trends: From 2015 to 2021, Asia31s (21 APO members and 10 nonmembers) economy grew annually by 4%. In 2021, they accounted for 48% of the global economy, compared with the USA (16%) and EU27 (14%). Projections for 2030 indicate Asias global economic share increasing to 53%.

From 2015 to 2021, Asia31s (21 APO members and 10 nonmembers) economy grew annually by 4%. In 2021, they accounted for 48% of the global economy, compared with the USA (16%) and EU27 (14%). Projections for 2030 indicate Asias global economic share increasing to 53%. Sector-specific Analyses: Despite diversification efforts, agriculture, forestry, and fishery still dominated employment in Asia in 2021, accounting for 30% of jobs. Meanwhile, manufacturing emerged as a significant sector, comprising over 20% of total value added in 12 Asian countries.

The APO Productivity Databook 2023 is available in both digital and print formats and can be accessed and downloaded for free from the link below.

https://doi.org/10.61145/TRKP9496

The APO Productivity Database 2023, an online tool that provides productivity data on 31 Asian countries and benchmarks from multiple economic groups worldwide, is also updated in the link below.

https://www.apo-tokyo.org/productivitydatabook/

About the APO

The Asian Productivity Organization (APO) is a regional intergovernmental organization dedicated to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region through mutual cooperation. It is nonpolitical, nonprofit, and nondiscriminatory. Established in 1961 with eight founding members, the APO currently comprises 21 member economies: Bangladesh; Cambodia; the ROC; Fiji; Hong Kong; India; Indonesia; I.R. Iran; Japan; the ROK; Lao PDR; Malaysia; Mongolia; Nepal; Pakistan; the Philippines; Singapore; Sri Lanka; Thailand; Turkiye; and Vietnam.

The APO is shaping the future of the region by fostering the socioeconomic development of its members through national policy advisory services, acting as a think tank, institutional capacity-building initiatives, and knowledge sharing to increase productivity.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205691972/en/

For details contact:

Digital Information Unit, APO: [email protected];

Phone: +81-3-3830-0411;

Website: https://www.apo-tokyo.org.

Source: Asian Productivity Organization
Cyber Resiliency as a Service leverages Lenovo expertise and Microsoft security solutions to help ensure business continuity by integrating greater visibility with cyber protection, detection, response, and recovery across digital estates and devices

Lenovo delivers subscription-based security offerings that support regulatory compliance and align with Center for Internet Security (CIS) critical controls

RALEIGH, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Lenovo and Microsoft are working together to help organizations operate more securely across their devices, users, apps, data, networks, and cloud services through a subscription-based Cyber Resiliency as a Service (CRaaS) offering. The offering enables Lenovo to build next generation security solutions and services directly on Microsoft technology including Microsoft Azure, Microsoft Defender, and Microsoft Sentinel to simplify security deployments and enhance security posture to help prevent, detect, and recover from potentially disruptive cyber events.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206935072/en/

Top Challenges Faced by CIOs (Graphic: Business Wire)

CRaaS addresses growing security challenges for businesses of all sizes. Lenovos global annual survey of CIOs found that data privacy/security (68%) and cybersecurity/ransomware (68%) are the top two challenges businesses find most difficult to address.1 With hundreds of different security tools to choose from, businesses are challenged to deploy disparate solutions into a cohesive security architecture. CRaaS will simplify the enterprise security ecosystem by offering a comprehensive solution that brings the full power of the Microsoft security stack and is fully managed by Lenovo. Offering security features through an as-a-Service consumption model will offload labor and time-intensive tasks to free up customers and reduce overhead costs.

Lenovos customers want broad protection and visibility across their organizations, a zero-trust approach, and automated security and compliance, all while streamlining their vendor relationships and effectively managing technology costs. Cyber Resiliency as a Service is our comprehensive solution to help organizations effectively contend with sophisticated and frequent cyberattacks while also tackling other cybersecurity challenges like regulatory compliance and budget constraints, said Marc Wheelhouse, Chief Security Officer, Lenovo Solutions and Services Group.

CRaaS will be enriched by Lenovos participation in the Microsoft Security Copilot Partner Private Preview. Security Copilot is the first AI-powered security product that enables security professionals to respond to threats quickly, process signals at machine speed, and assess risk exposure in minutes. It combines an advanced large language model (LLM) with a security-specific model that is informed by Microsofts unique global threat intelligence and more than 65 trillion daily signals. To learn more, read Microsofts announcement.

Security is one of the most pressing issues of our time and is key to driving business transformation and growth, said Ann Johnson, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft Security Business Development. Together with Lenovo, we will empower organizations to be more resilient, secure, and productive with end-to-end, AI-powered security solutions and services.

CRaaS is the latest offering in Lenovos commitment to help protect customers and their sensitive data, complementing its Security by Design practice which safeguards devices throughout the product development lifecycle, and Lenovo ThinkShield, which delivers advanced security features across Lenovos portfolio of hardware, software, and services.

CRaaS aligns with the CIS top 18 critical controls for cyber defense and provides:

Continuous Risk Assessment

Automated Security Updates & Patches

Dynamic Threat Intelligence

Active Incident Response and Management

Regular Compliance Audits

Data Backup and Recovery Services

Lenovos suite of CRaaS security services is targeted for global availability by April 2024. For more information, visit here: https://techtoday.lenovo.com/us/en/services/cyber-resiliency

About Lenovo

Lenovo is a US$62 billion revenue global technology powerhouse, ranked #217 in the Fortune Global 500, employing 77,000 people around the world, and serving millions of customers every day in 180 markets. Focused on a bold vision to deliver Smarter Technology for All, Lenovo has built on its success as the worlds largest PC company by further expanding into growth areas that fuel the advancement of New IT technologies (client, edge, cloud, network, and intelligence) including server, storage, mobile, software, solutions, and services. This transformation together with Lenovos world-changing innovation is building a more inclusive, trustworthy, and smarter future for everyone, everywhere. Lenovo is listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange under Lenovo Group Limited (HKSE: 992)(ADR: LNVGY). To find out more visit https://www.lenovo.com, and read about the latest news via our StoryHub.

1Lenovo Global CIO Study

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206935072/en/

Zeno Group for Lenovo: [email protected]

Source: Lenovo
AI-powered work execution and Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) solution adds hours of frontline production capacity through IoT based equipment maintenance and streamlined regulatory audits

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- MaintainX, the leading maintenance and frontline work execution platform, today announced $50M in Series C funding led by Bain Capital Ventures (BCV) with participation from existing investors Bessemer Venture Partners, Amity Ventures, August Capital and Ridge Ventures. Other strategic new investors include Jeff Immelt the former CEO of GE, Jeff Lawson the CEO of Twilio, Steve Pagliuca a Senior Advisor to Bain Capital, Rob Bernshteyn the CEO of Coupa Software, Chris Comparato the Chairman and CEO of Toast, and Allison Pickens the former COO of Gainsight. The new capital will accelerate the MaintainX feature roadmap, with additional AI-driven predictive capabilities and data-driven functionality. Following the company's Series B in June 2021, this investment brings total funding to $104 million while achieving a valuation of $1 billion.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206379674/en/

Improve the way your team plans, manages, and executes equipment maintenance with streamlined work order management and resource planning. (Photo: Business Wire)

The worlds leading manufacturing, industrial, logistics, hospitality and facilities management companies rely on MaintainX to prevent downtime and ensure 24/7 operations. MaintainX prevents costly failures and ensures regulatory compliance by arming teams with the right data, while increasing productivity of maintenance workers and other frontline staff by digitizing workflows.

Fixed assets average 24 years old while still in operation, the highest age since 1947 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. By better maintaining infrastructure, ensuring preventive maintenance compliance, and providing asset and plant-level data insights, companies using MaintainX achieve higher productivity. As aging infrastructure is replaced, smarter machines generate more data and frontline workers using MaintainX evolve into knowledge workers empowered with the right insights.

We are building the backend for the industrial world, said Chris Turlica, CEO and Co-Founder of MaintainX. Production capacity and efficiency has proven to be of utmost importance in recent years, and that will only increase in our global economy. Our mission is to build software that keeps the physical world running and we have never been more excited by the road ahead.

MaintainX is an investment in our companys future, said Mark Bolen, VP of Quality and Engineering at Cintas. The insights MaintainX provides improve our decision making, helping us prevent equipment downtime and predict maintenance needs before they become costly problems. Through our partnership with MaintainX, were building a data foundation that we can take advantage of for many years to come.

The company has grown revenue 13x since its Series B financing and its 6,500+ customers include Brenntag, Cintas, Duracell, Univar Solutions, McDonalds, Michaels, Shell, The DeLong Co., Inc., and Titan America.

MaintainX has emerged as the best-in-class software platform for work order management. It was purpose built for frontline workers, empowering them to be more efficient every day, said Merritt Hummer, Partner at BCV. We have been impressed by the growth and breadth of MaintainXs customer base, demonstrating that the team is addressing a widespread need for productivity software for frontline workers across industries.

In addition to funding, MaintainX is introducing new products to streamline maintenance operations and drive data-driven decision making. These include:

AI-powered Maintenance Operations : A suite of AI tools that empower your frontline teams and improve overall data quality to quickly digitize paper-based SOPs and maintenance procedures, improve the efficiency of frontline workers, and help prevent downtime before it happens.

: A suite of AI tools that empower your frontline teams and improve overall data quality to quickly digitize paper-based SOPs and maintenance procedures, improve the efficiency of frontline workers, and help prevent downtime before it happens. Asset Health Insights : In-depth reporting dashboards that give maintenance, reliability and operations leaders real-time insights into the status and condition of assets and maintenance operations across plants and facilities.

: In-depth reporting dashboards that give maintenance, reliability and operations leaders real-time insights into the status and condition of assets and maintenance operations across plants and facilities. Resource Planning: Workforce planning and scheduling that make it easy to balance workloads across frontline teams and ensure critical work gets done on time  all in one screen.

With MaintainX, Duracell can now better evaluate parts and equipment, leading to reduced stock variability, said Jarrod Kipp, North America Product Supply Process Transformation Manager at Duracell. We expect immediate cost savings to be $50,000 per site on parts inventory savings alone.

The insight companies can access about their industrial supply chains from ERP system data from SAP is extended with MaintainX, said Michael ODonnell, SVP and GM of Digital Supply Chain at SAP North America. Looking ahead, I am excited for how this collaboration will unlock further value and improve our joint customers operational and cost efficiencies.

To discover how MaintainX can improve your maintenance operations and asset management, please visit www.maintainx.com.

About MaintainX

MaintainX is the leading maintenance and frontline execution platform designed specifically for industrial and frontline teams. It helps companies streamline maintenance operations, improve asset management, and manage regulatory compliance and auditsall while delivering insights that can improve the bottom line. As a mobile-first platform, MaintainX delivers a modern, IoT-enabled solution for maintenance, reliability, and operations teams. MaintainX is trusted by over 6,500 companies worldwide, including companies like Duracell, Brenntag, Cintas, Shell, Titan America, and many more. The company was founded in 2018 by Chris Turlica, Hugo Dozois-Caouette, Mathieu Marengere-Gosselin and Nick Haase. For more information, visit www.maintainx.com.

About Bain Capital Ventures

Bain Capital Ventures (BCV) is a multi-stage VC firm investing across four core domainsfintech, application software, infrastructure, and commerce-tech. Leveraging the unique resources of Bain Capital, we deploy targeted support at every stage of the company-building journey. For over 20 years, BCV has helped launch and commercialize more than 400 companies including Attentive, Bloomreach, Docker, DocuSign, Flywire, LinkedIn, Mirakl, and Redis. You can follow us on Twitter @BainCapVC.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206379674/en/

Allison Braley

[email protected]

Source: MaintainX
HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Mantis Innovation attended The Energy Professionals Associations (TEPA) 18th Annual National Conference in Austin, Texas on November 7-9, where it was announced that Mantis Innovation President of Energy Solutions, Steve Campbell, and Vice President of Operations, Jen Underwood, would be taking on new board positions, with Campbell slated to take over as 2024 Board President, and Underwood stepping in as Treasurer.

Campbell currently serves as an at-large Board Member and has been the TEPA Sustainability Committee Chair since 2021, with Underwood currently serving as an at-large board member in 2023.

Im honored to have the confidence of my fellow TEPA members to serve as next years TEPA president, said Campbell. "I am thrilled to step into a role that has been held by so many successful past leaders, I join an exceptional board and our dynamic Executive Director, Shannon McGriff. Together, we will continue to shape the association and are committed to innovating the retail energy industry. Mike Payne, our current TEPA president, has been instrumental in helping TEPA grapple with some of the key legislative and regulatory challenges facing our industry. I applaud his efforts and will continue to help our TEPA Board advocate on behalf of the retail energy market. I also look forward to encouraging our members as they lend their expertise to TEPA by volunteering, as well as engaging with them in more frequent communication and feedback.

I embrace the opportunity to contribute my skills, diligence, and dedication to ensuring transparency, fiscal responsibility, and sustainable growth as the Treasurer of TEPA, adds Underwood. The support of Mantis Innovation in this journey shows the importance of how we collaborate in moving our industry forward.

The Mantis team secured additional accolades at the National Conference, receiving ERCG Excellence Awards in recognition of its exceptional contributions to the industry, including third place in the highly competitive category of Supplier Overall Satisfaction. This accolade is a testament to Mantiss dedication to meeting and exceeding the expectations of its clients, explained Campbell, adding Mantis's success in this category reflects Mantiss commitment to understanding client needs, adapting to industry trends, and maintaining a high standard of service. Its what set us apart in the competitive landscape. Mantis also secured a spot in the Supplier Top 5  Market Share category, tying for 1st place. The awards, which celebrate excellence in various categories, underline Mantis's commitment to delivering top-notch services and earning the trust and satisfaction of its clients.

Our data would indicate that Mantis Innovation excels in quality of relationships, not quantity," said Young Kim, Principal at Energy Research Consulting Group. "There are a few other ABCs that have more supplier relationships, but Mantis is ranked #1 on supplier volume. Nearly 30% of suppliers surveyed reported that Mantis is one their top 5 ABCs by volume. This is extraordinary, especially considering how fragmented the ABC sector is. A very significant share of suppliers view Mantis as the best partner in the industry, and it should instill confidence in their clients. If you are fortunate enough to work with Mantis, you will be treated well."

About Mantis Innovation

Mantis Innovation is the premier provider of smart solutions that deliver better building performance through managed facility services and turnkey program management. Mantis leverages expertise from a vast array of professional disciplines in engineering, comprehensive data collection and analysis, technology-enabled solutions, and a network of trusted partners. The Mantis Innovation managed solutions include energy procurement, demand management, solar, roofing, building envelope, pavement, LED lighting, HVAC/mechanical, building automation systems, and data center optimization. Mantis is headquartered in Houston, Texas, with 17 locations across the United States from Massachusetts to Washington.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205075780/en/

Press

Mantis Innovation

Chelsey Gallo

Marketing Communications Specialist

[email protected]

Source: Mantis Innovation
Recognized Among the Countrys Top 600 Companies Committed to ESG

WALL, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- New Jersey Resources (NYSE: NJR) was named one of Americas Most Responsible Companies by Newsweek, and one of only 156 companies to earn this distinction for five consecutive years for its excellence and accomplishments in corporate social responsibility. NJR is among the top 600 of the nations largest public corporations across 14 industries recognized for their work and accomplishments on sustainability issues, performance and reputation.

Americas Most Responsible Companies are evaluated and ranked across environmental, social and governance (ESG) key performance indicators, while an independent survey asked U.S. citizens about their perception of company activities related to corporate social responsibility. This recognition complements NJRs commitment to a cleaner energy future as the company drives sustainable business practices that add value, fuel growth and strengthen the environment and society.

Underpinning NJRs commitment to sustainability is our belief that making a positive and lasting impact on our people, customers, communities and environment is intertwined with our success, said Steve Westhoven, president and CEO of New Jersey Resources. To be recognized for our commitment to ESG and among such an elite group of environmentally and socially conscience companies is a huge accomplishment and credit to our entire team.

NJR is committed to long-term, sustainable value creation, pursuing energy solutions that meet the needs of its customers, employees and communities. By leveraging its existing infrastructure and investing in innovation  such as carbon-capture technologies and low-carbon fuels  the company is making broad-based decarbonization a reality toward a cleaner energy future.

To learn more about NJRs leadership and commitment to sustainability, please visit njrsustainability.com.

Americas Most Responsible Companies 2024 is a project of Newsweek in partnership with Statista. For more information on the rankings and methodology for selection, please visit newsweek.com/rankings/americas-most-responsible-companies-2024.

About New Jersey Resources

New Jersey Resources (NYSE: NJR) is a Fortune 1000 company that, through its subsidiaries, provides safe and reliable natural gas and clean energy services, including transportation, distribution, asset management and home services. NJR is composed of five primary businesses:

New Jersey Natural Gas , NJRs principal subsidiary, operates and maintains natural gas transportation and distribution infrastructure to serve nearly 576,000 customers in New Jerseys Monmouth, Ocean and parts of Morris, Middlesex, Sussex and Burlington counties.

, NJRs principal subsidiary, operates and maintains natural gas transportation and distribution infrastructure to serve nearly 576,000 customers in New Jerseys Monmouth, Ocean and parts of Morris, Middlesex, Sussex and Burlington counties. Clean Energy Ventures invests in, owns and operates solar projects with a total capacity of approximately 469 megawatts, providing residential and commercial customers with low-carbon solutions.

invests in, owns and operates solar projects with a total capacity of approximately 469 megawatts, providing residential and commercial customers with low-carbon solutions. Energy Services manages a diversified portfolio of natural gas transportation and storage assets and provides physical natural gas services and customized energy solutions to its customers across North America.

manages a diversified portfolio of natural gas transportation and storage assets and provides physical natural gas services and customized energy solutions to its customers across North America. Storage and Transportation serves customers from local distributors and producers to electric generators and wholesale marketers through its ownership of Leaf River Energy Center and the Adelphia Gateway Pipeline, as well as our 50% equity ownership in the Steckman Ridge natural gas storage facility.

serves customers from local distributors and producers to electric generators and wholesale marketers through its ownership of Leaf River Energy Center and the Adelphia Gateway Pipeline, as well as our 50% equity ownership in the Steckman Ridge natural gas storage facility. Home Services provides service contracts as well as heating, central air conditioning, water heaters, standby generators, solar and other indoor and outdoor comfort products to residential homes throughout New Jersey.

NJR and its over 1,300 employees are committed to helping customers save energy and money by promoting conservation and encouraging efficiency through Conserve to Preserve and initiatives such as SAVEGREEN and The Sunlight Advantage.

For more information about NJR:

www.njresources.com

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) @NJNaturalGas.

Like us on facebook.com/NewJerseyNaturalGas.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206221241/en/

Media:

Mike Kinney

732-938-1031

[email protected]

Investor:

Adam Prior

732-938-1145

[email protected]

Source: New Jersey Resources
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. President Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on making amendments to the "Aviation Security Rules," approved by decree #613 of the President of Azerbaijan on April 24, 2012, Trend reports.

The decree declares, guided by paragraph 32 of Article 109 of the Constitution of Azerbaijan, to approve amendments to the "Aviation Security Rules" approved by Presidential Decree No. 613 of April 24, 2012 (Collection of legal documents in accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Azerbaijan, 2012, No. 4, Article 292; 2017, No. 1, Article 50; 2018, No. 9, Article 1840, No. 11, Article 2263; 2019, No. 3, Article 430, No. 5, Article 823; 2020, No. 8, Article 1042; 2022, No. 5, Article 475, No. 9, Article 1028; 2023, No. 3, Article 351, No. 4, Article 500, No. 8 (Book I), Article 1159).

Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
SALT LAKE CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Nomi Health (Nomi), a direct healthcare company, and ClearPoint Health (ClearPoint), a national employer benefits platform, today announced a partnership to empower small and mid-sized employers across the United States to take control of their health insurance costs.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206268366/en/

We all deserve accessible and affordable healthcare in our communities. Unfortunately, our healthcare system is burdened by unnecessary complexity and the overwhelming costs are resulting in employers not being able to offer a meaningful health benefit to employees, said Mark Newman, CEO and co-founder of Nomi Health. Together with ClearPoint Health, were simplifying how healthcare is paid for and delivered, and we take pride in passing these savings onto small and mid-sized employers, so they can provide an affordable plan to their employees and families.

ClearPoint and Nomi have the shared mission to lower healthcare costs by cutting unnecessary complexity within the healthcare system. As part of this effort, both companies support the growing employer-directed trend, which is proven to cut costs and improve patients care and experience by realizing the value of cutting out waste through direct to employer contracting, transparent pharmacy management and other programs aimed at creating closer employer relationships with providers. A growing number of employers nationwide are turning to self-funded models to have more control over healthcare costs.

ClearPoint is a pioneer in developing and scaling clinically integrated captives, a novel approach incorporating clinical providers in the sponsorship of medical stop loss captives offering level-funded and self-funded products. ClearPoints clinically integrated product is known as CliniCaptive, which is purpose-built for provider organizations to offer more affordable and transparent insurance options to their local employers.

Through the CliniCaptive product, Nomi will feature its end-to-end platform of services, including its growing national network of low-cost, high-quality provider partners, pharmacy solutions, provider-centric revenue cycle management, member navigation services, and its robust reporting and analytics suite. These connected solutions create market-leading experiences, clinical outcomes, and affordability.

Nomi and ClearPoint share an unrelenting focus on creating tangible and transparent value for employers. We both believe that healthcare is local and well leverage our shared product to promote more localized partnerships between providers and employers, said Jeb Dunkelberger, CEO of ClearPoint Health. ClearPoints medical stop loss captive integrates perfectly with Nomis service platform. Together, were able to partner with more provider organizations and health systems as we aggregate employers seeking an alternative insurance solution that offers sustainable affordability.

ClearPoint and Nomi will be launching their partnership product across at least four distinct regions that encapsulate over 15 states in 2024, with expansion markets already planned for early 2025. Over 50 health systems are expected to announce their participation in select geographies over the next year, further expanding access to affordable insurance for employers seeking high-quality and lower cost healthcare benefits.

About ClearPoint Health

ClearPoint Health is a national employer benefits platform for small and mid-sized employers. ClearPoints core product is a medical stop loss captive, which enables employers to sustainably self-fund their insurance benefits while saving money on ancillary services and vendors. For more information, please visit www.getclearpoint.com.

About Nomi Health

Nomi Health is a nationwide healthcare programs and payments company rebuilding the U.S. healthcare system to run at half the cost. Our end-to-end platform of solutions reduces the complexity and cost of traditional healthcare for employers, governments and buyers. With over 3,000 customers, Nomis diverse portfolio provides quality data analytics, financial services solutions, and an open network of providers that delivers population care management, such as substance use disorder programs. Our cross-functional team of experienced clinical, healthcare, technology and fintech backgrounds, combined with our leading technology, we deliver distinct services to our partners and the 10.5 million people they serve. Learn more at www.nomihealth.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206268366/en/

[email protected]

[email protected]

Source: Nomi Health
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Ivy Fertility, a collaborative network of globally-renowned fertility clinics, has welcomed Hanh N. Cottrell, MD to its team of physicians at Pacific Northwest Fertility. Dr. Cottrell is a board certified reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist. She will practice at Pacific Northwest Fertilitys Seattle location, and will start seeing new patients in January.

We are so proud to welcome Dr. Cottrell to our team, said Julie Lamb, MD, medical director at Pacific Northwest Fertility. She is a talented, compassionate, and experienced physician, and were thrilled that our patients will have the opportunity to build their families with her.

Dr. Cottrell received her Bachelor of Science in Biopsychology and Cognitive Science from the University of Michigan, where she graduated with high honors and thesis distinction. She received her medical degree from University of Toledos College of Medicine and completed her residency at University of Toledos Medical Center and Toledo Hospital. Dr. Cottrell completed her fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at Emory University School of Medicine. She comes to Pacific Northwest Fertility from Ann Arbor, Michigan, where she was a reproductive endocrinologist at IVF Michigan and Ohio Fertility Centers and a core faculty member at Trinity St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor.

Dr. Cottrell has been recognized for her contributions as a clinician and scholar, and was a recipient of the Daniel G. McMurtrie MD Award and the Philip S. Willis Award, as well as a Gates Millennium Scholar.

Im sincerely excited to be joining the like-minded, compassionate, and creative individuals at PNWF and Ivy Fertility, said Dr. Cottrell. I believe every patient deserves a personalized touch to their fertility care and am looking forward to providing that as a member of the Pacific Northwest Fertility team.

About Ivy Fertility

Ivy Fertility is globally recognized as pioneers and innovators in the field of advanced reproductive technologies, in-vitro fertilization, third-party reproduction, andrology, and fertility research. The Ivy Fertility network includes Fertility Associates of Memphis, Fertility Centers of Orange County, IVF Fertility Center, Los Angeles Reproductive Center, Nevada Center for Reproductive Medicine, Nevada Fertility Center, NOVA IVF, Pacific Northwest Fertility, Reproductive Partners Medical Group, San Diego Fertility Center, Utah Fertility Center, and Virginia Fertility & IVF. By developing new procedures, achieving scientific breakthroughs, and teaching the latest techniques, Ivy Fertility upholds its commitment to successful outcomes and continually contributes to the development of the entire fertility community. The Ivy team is passionate about its family-building mission and works tirelessly each day to help patients become parents. To learn more about Ivy Fertility, please visit www.ivyfertility.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206839042/en/

Constance Rapson

[email protected]

Source: Ivy Fertility
First to Deliver Immutable Royalties to Solve the Biggest Problem in the Music Industry: Paying Artists Fairly and Allowing Fans to Access Music Rights

ZUG, Switzerland & LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Polymesh, the leader in public permissioned blockchain, announced today at FinTech Connect 2023 its upcoming integration with TokenTraxx, a new independent music and art creator platform driven by NFTs to support and financially benefit the whole arts community.

Web3 music promises to liberate artists from reliance on intermediaries, who retain large portions of the revenue stream and restrict the income potential for music creators, especially for new artists. Unfortunately, many existing Web3 music marketplaces fail to deliver the promised royalties, leaving artists back to square one.

Leveraging Polymeshs settlement engine, TokenTraxx will issue music NFTs on Polymesh that automatically enforce royalties at the token level, something no other protocol in the entire Web3 ecosystem can currently offer. This is an important distinction, as it speaks to the principal reasons Web3 music technology was created in the first place.

This collaboration shows that the industry is recognizing theres a real power in NFTs ready to be harnessed, said Graeme Moore, Head of Tokenization, Polymesh Association. Were excited to collaborate with TokenTraxx on the creation of foundational NFTs that will shape the future of music and allow actual ownership of the revenue stream for both artists and fans.

Immutable royalties use the tamper-proof, transparent blockchain to ensure artists receive fair compensation for their work without risk of unauthorized modifications or revenue manipulation. This groundbreaking feature will establish a new standard in the music industry, reinforcing transparency and trust between creators, producers, fans, and stakeholders.

The technology will mean fans can buy a relatively unknown artists catalog and have the potential of sharing in rewards if the artist becomes famous. Any individual can own the royalties associated with songs or collections of songs. In parallel, TokenTraxx is developing partnerships with regulated entities to ensure these offerings can be delivered in a compliant fashion.

Polymesh is recognized for its highly secure and regulatory-focused blockchain platform designed specifically for the financial services industry. Utilizing the institutional-grade blockchain, TokenTraxx will also explore issuing music catalogs featuring natively-compliant tokens.

TokenTraxx is proud to work with Polymesh and lead the music industrys breakthrough into Web3, where technology meets musical expression and benefits both creators and fans, said Jitin Jain, CTO at TokenTraxx. Through NFTs and the power of Polymeshs purpose-built blockchain, TokenTraxx is committed to reshaping the narrative of the creator economy and ensuring artists receive the recognition and compensation they deserve.

Polymesh is exhibiting at Booth C10 at FinTech Connect 2023, December 6-7, 2023.

About Polymesh

Polymesh is an institutionalgrade permissioned blockchain built specifically for regulated assets. It streamlines antiquated processes and opens the door to new financial instruments by solving challenges around governance, identity, compliance, confidentiality, and settlement.

To learn more, visit: https://polymesh.network

About TokenTraxx

TokenTraxx provides web3 infrastructure purpose-built for the music industry. With a tier-one team of music, web3, and growth experts, TokenTraxx has a unique position in the industry, focused on providing music communities with Music Web3 As A Service through TRAXX Studios - a network of decentralised, personalised, interconnected marketplaces providing the music industry with a full stack of fan engagement tools.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206863786/en/

Press:

Graeme Moore

[email protected]

Source: Polymesh
HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Russo's New York Pizzeria Italian Kitchen is proud to announce the launch of its latest online catering service, further enriching its e-commerce arm. The new offering provides an effortless and accessible solution for corporate catering, featuring an array of freshly made New York-style pizza and an assortment of Italian delicacies.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205648606/en/

Italian pasta trays for catering (Photo: Business Wire)

The catering menu showcases an impressive selection, including XL 28-inch party pizzas serving 10 to 15 people, as well as delectable pasta trays such as lasagna, baked ziti, fettuccini Alfredo, spaghetti carbonara, tortellini al pesto, and truffle mushroom pasta. Each pasta tray generously serves eight guests. In addition, the menu features individual lunch box specials, mini calzones, pizza by the slice, and a variety of Parmesan and Tuscan sandwiches, accompanied by the choice of tomato basil soup or a side salad.

Chef Russo emphasizes that the Italian catering packages start at just $8.99 per person, offering exceptional value for pizza and pasta trays. Every menu item is prepared fresh to order, ensuring the highest quality and satisfaction. Same-day orders are gladly accepted, guaranteeing prompt service and culinary excellence.

Russo's signature desserts are sourced from a quaint Italian bakery in Little Italy, New York, for a sweet finale. From freshly made New York cheesecake and Italian cream cake to red velvet and carrot cake, as well as tantalizing tiramisu and traditional Italian cannoli, these delectable treats add an authentic touch to every catering experience.

Chef Russo proudly affirms, "We bring a taste of Little Italy to your home or office, delivering a truly authentic Italian catering experience suitable for gatherings of any size, from large corporate events to intimate dinners and everything in between."

Russo's New York Pizzeria Italian Catering provides unparalleled ease and convenience in planning and ordering, ensuring a seamless and delightful catering experience for all occasions.

Visit our catering website ItalianCateringHouston.com

About Russos New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen

Houston-based Russos New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen is a leading fast-casual pizza and Italian kitchen concept known for its hand-tossed New York-style pizzas made with Russos family dough recipe, the sauce is made from fresh-crushed California tomatoes and imported Italian cheese blends to create an authentic, one-of-a-kind pizza packed with old-world flavor. In addition to traditional New York-style pizzas, Russos also offers gourmet pizzas & pastas, sandwiches, and salads. Starting in 1985, at the age of 20 years old, by Anthony Russo, Russos began franchising in 1999. Russos has grown to 54 corporate and franchised locations. For franchise information on Russos, including franchise opportunities, visit https://www.nypizzeria.com/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205648606/en/

Anthony Russo

[email protected]

346-802-4700

Source: Russo's New York Pizzeria
EDINBURGH, Scotland--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The renowned EIE event which aims to give investors and entrepreneurs access to the Scottish tech ecosystem will return next year, after a two-year hiatus.

EIE24 will bring together over 130 investors from around the world for two days of networking, discovery, and deal-making with some of Scotlands most innovative companies.

Established in 2008, EIE connects global investors with Scotlands thriving tech ecosystem and the countrys most promising globally relevant tech companies of tomorrow. Past EIE events have supported over 540 companies, helping them go on to raise more than $1.5 billion in downstream funding.

The latest Local Digital Index by techUK revealed that the estimated 14,504 companies in Scotlands tech sector  some 400,000 people  have grown by 2.8 per cent this year and the cumulative growth in tech companies in Scotland had increased by 82% in 10 years.

EIE24, which will be hosted by BBC Scotlands Innovation Correspondent Laura Goodwin, will take place at iconic Edinburgh locations, including Edinburgh Castle, The John McIntyre Conference Centre and Dynamic Earth on 30th April and 1st May 2024. Investors can expect two days of networking opportunities and the ability to meet innovative companies, who are providing globally significant solutions.

Duncan Martin, Head of Entrepreneurship at The University of Edinburghs Bayes Centre said:

We are excited to announce the return of EIE in 2024 with a bold new vision. EIE is a key event in Scotlands thriving tech scene and in 2024 we are evolving it to become a wider platform, showcasing the best opportunities our ecosystem has to offer to our international investor colleagues.

Scotland has an incredible tech ecosystem, with innovative high potential companies looking for investment that are ready to deliver global impact. EIE24 will shine a light on investment-ready, high-growth technology companies, as well as start-ups with the potential to scale with the right investors.

The relaunched EIE24 event is delivered in partnership with the Data Driven Initiative and represents a cornerstone of the regions 1.3 billion Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal.

Mark Logan, Chief Entrepreneurial Advisor to Scottish Government, said:

Im delighted to see EIE return to Scotland, in an enhanced and updated format that will comprehensively showcase Scotlands most exciting and innovative new tech companies to the national and international investor community.

As well as access to some of the most exciting high-growth companies around, the event will also incorporate insightful discussions and opportunities for attendees to connect with key figures across Scotlands tech ecosystem.

Registration is now open so investors and companies interested in finding out more about EIE24 can register interest at www.eie-invest.com

Ends.

Supporting images can be found here.

Notes for the Editor

About DDI

The Data Driven Initiative (DDI) is part of the Edinburgh and South-East Scotland City Region Deal, a 15-year investment programme jointly funded by both governments and regional partners.

The DDI conglomerate consists of six hubs based at the University of Edinburgh (Bayes Centre, Usher Institute, the Edinburgh International Data Facility, Edinburgh Futures Institute and Easter Bush) and Heriot-Watt University (the National Robotarium) whose collective innovation and strategic developments are primed to make Edinburgh the Data Capital of Europe.

About the Bayes Centre

The Bayes Centre is The University of Edinburghs Innovation Hub for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. It delivers EIE on behalf of the Data-Driven Innovation Initiative hubs and is supported by Edinburgh Innovations, The University of Edinburghs commercialisation service, in contribution to the Data-Driven Entrepreneurship programme.

The core pillars of the Bayes Centres approach are data science education, tech entrepreneurship, and industrially driven, multidisciplinary research. They provide programmes, networks, and facilities that complement the existing strengths of our community and help boost The University of Edinburghs impact across the city, region, nationally, and internationally through new activity with external partners.

Their programmes focus on providing upskilling and lifelong learning opportunities to professionals and communities, creating new opportunities for multi-disciplinary, industrially oriented research and innovation projects, and supporting entrepreneurs in starting and growing their ventures from inception to scale-up.

About Edinburgh Innovations

Edinburgh Innovations (EI) is The University of Edinburghs commercialisation service. It benefits society and the economy by helping researchers, students and industry drive innovation. EI seeks opportunities and builds partnerships for mutual benefit, making the journey easy and adding value at every stage.

EI makes ideas work for a better world.

Find out more on the EI website. https://edinburgh-innovations.ed.ac.uk/

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For more information please contact Roddy Scott :: [email protected] :: 07768506465

Source: EIE24
More than four billion data annotations completed across all content types

VANCOUVER, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- TELUS International (NYSE and TSX: TIXT), a leading digital customer experience (CX) innovator that designs, builds and delivers next-generation solutions, including artificial intelligence (AI) and content moderation, for global and disruptive brands, today announced it was named a "Leader" in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Data Labeling Software 2023 Vendor Assessment. This global assessment evaluated vendors offering data labeling software technologies and capabilities, including TELUS Internationals proprietary Ground Truth Studios (GT Studios) platform.

We believe this prestigious acknowledgment in the IDC MarketScape underscores TELUS International's ongoing commitment since 2005 to be a worldwide leader in AI data solutions by investing in the ongoing advancement and transformative enhancement of our unique proprietary GT Studios platform in order to consistently deliver accurate, efficient, scalable and on-time data labeling solutions for our clients, said Jeff Puritt, President and CEO, TELUS International. TELUS International has a vital role in unlocking the value of unstructured data within AI/ML algorithms. Our focus on innovation and passion for excellence enable us to support our clients ambitions to bring new and complex AI and generative AI use cases to life by harnessing both platform automation and human intelligence to create diverse and representative AI training datasets while reducing bias.

The comprehensive IDC MarketScape report highlights the critical role of data labeling in fueling the expansion of the machine learning life-cycle market, particularly in new AI/ML applications using unstructured data for conversational AI, speech recognition, sentiment analysis, object detection in autonomous driving and robotics applications, medical imaging, facial recognition, and more.

"Data labeling can be expensive, slow, and labor-intensive, but it's necessary to derive value from AI/ML models using unstructured data, such as text, images, videos, and audio data, said Kathy Lange, Research Director of AI Software at IDC. New AI-assisted software platforms, such as TELUS International GT Studios, dramatically reduce the effort traditionally required by human labelers, resulting in reduced time and costs for data labeling while delivering improved quality and accuracy of results.

The IDC MarketScape noted the following strengths for TELUS International:

Enterprise features. In addition to its AI-assisted labeling capabilities, the offering is highly adaptable and configurable for clients' unique workflow requirements. It contains comprehensive data management, workflow orchestration, integrated analytics, quality control performance dashboards, a host of security features, and more. All data annotation types are supported in a single tool, allowing dedicated workers to become more familiar with the interface and capabilities.

In addition to its AI-assisted labeling capabilities, the offering is highly adaptable and configurable for clients' unique workflow requirements. It contains comprehensive data management, workflow orchestration, integrated analytics, quality control performance dashboards, a host of security features, and more. All data annotation types are supported in a single tool, allowing dedicated workers to become more familiar with the interface and capabilities. Global data collection. TELUS International's broad geographic presence helps companies source and consolidate text, image, audio, and video data across many countries and regions. It has collected hundreds of thousands of kilometers of sensor data for its automotive and consumer electronics clients.

TELUS International's broad geographic presence helps companies source and consolidate text, image, audio, and video data across many countries and regions. It has collected hundreds of thousands of kilometers of sensor data for its automotive and consumer electronics clients. Scalability. TELUS International's platform supports large data-intensive projects to support petabytes of data and a wide range of data and annotation types. The scalability of its global workforce also supports large, complex, single or multimodal projects.

TELUS International's fully-automated GT Studios is an all-in-one platform for data annotation, project and people management. The platform combines the best of data annotation and computer vision capabilities with the power of its diverse global AI Community of 1.2 million professional annotators and linguists. GT Studios assists brands in building high-quality AI training datasets for models across various industries and is capable of handling all data types across 500+ languages and dialects, and provides:

Advanced tools that automatically distribute work to the most qualified global contributors

Worker seniority system to ensure high-quality data that is both diverse and representative

Seamless project and AI Community management with an ability to scale contributors up and down to meet project demands

Built-in spot-checks to ensure quality

Upgrade your AI today. Partner with our AI Data Solutions experts to customize the exact project to advance your machine learning needs. Lets connect.

About IDC MarketScape

IDC MarketScape vendor assessment model is designed to provide an overview of the competitive fitness of ICT (information and communications technology) suppliers in a given market. The research methodology utilizes a rigorous scoring methodology based on both qualitative and quantitative criteria that results in a single graphical illustration of each vendors position within a given market. IDC MarketScape provides a clear framework in which the product and service offerings, capabilities and strategies, and current and future market success factors of IT and telecommunications vendors can be meaningfully compared. The framework also provides technology buyers with a 360-degree assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of current and prospective vendors.

About TELUS International

TELUS International (NYSE & TSX: TIXT) designs, builds and delivers next-generation digital solutions to enhance the customer experience (CX) for global and disruptive brands. The companys services support the full lifecycle of its clients digital transformation journeys, enabling them to more quickly embrace next-generation digital technologies to deliver better business outcomes. TELUS Internationals integrated solutions span digital strategy, innovation, consulting and design, IT lifecycle including managed solutions, intelligent automation and end-to-end AI data solutions including computer vision capabilities, as well as omnichannel CX and trust and safety solutions including content moderation. Fueling all stages of company growth, TELUS International partners with brands across strategic industry verticals, including tech and games, communications and media, ecommerce and fintech, banking, financial services and insurance, healthcare, and others.

TELUS Internationals unique caring culture promotes diversity and inclusivity through its policies, team member resource groups and workshops, and equal employment opportunity hiring practices across the regions where it operates. Since 2007, the company has positively impacted the lives of more than 1.2 million citizens around the world, building stronger communities and helping those in need through large-scale volunteer events and charitable giving. Five TELUS International Community Boards have provided $5.4 million in funding to grassroots charitable organizations since 2011. Learn more at: telusinternational.com.

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TELUS International Media Relations

Ali Wilson

(604) 328-7093

[email protected]

TELUS International Investor Relations

Jason Mayr

(604) 695-3455

[email protected]

Source: TELUS International
VANCOUVER, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Today, Spring, a leader in Canadas early stage impact investing ecosystem, announces the winners of two consecutive Impact Investor Challenges. Tenzr, a Vancouver-based health-tech company focused on gamifying occupational therapy will receive at least $70k investment as the winner of the NIMBUS Synergies Impact Investor Challenge while Lite-1, a women-owned biotech company that is creating eco-friendly colours derived from naturally occurring microbes will receive at least $200k as the winner of the TELUS Pollinator Women Led Impact Investor Challenge. The challenge winners will utilise the funds to accelerate their business strategy. The investment is made up of funds from individual investors from Springs national investor ecosystem.

"We are honoured to have won the Nimbus Synergies Health Impact Investor Challenge. It was a privilege to have competed with the other amazing companies making a remarkable positive impact in their respective domains. In addition to the investment and publicity, this win serves as an important validation of our clinical impact, comments Tenzr Health Founders Lukas-Karim Merhi and Gautam Sadarangani. We look forward to working with the impact investor cohort to continue to grow Tenzr Health."

Springs impact investor challenge consists of a joint cohort of individual investors and purpose-driven founders coming together to navigate all aspects of the investment process. The program supports founders through a rapid process of preparing and presenting investors with a robust fundraising package. Investors are guided through a 6-8 week due diligence process designed to deepen their understanding of the risks and opportunities that early-stage investors need to succeed. The program also features unique content that aims to educate both founders and investors on key areas of purpose-driven venture building including market analysis, impact measurement, negotiation and financial performance. The impact investor challenge culminates in a program finale that pools the cohorts investment into an investment into the winning companies.

The program leverages a collaborative model to bring some of the leading institutions in Canada together to support impact ventures and build capacity for impact investors to participate in high-potential opportunities. The BC Health Impact Investor Challenge is delivered in partnership with Nymbus Synergies, while TELUS Pollinator Fund serves as the lead partner on the Women Led Impact Investor Challenge. Lite-1, the winner of the Women Led challenge will also receive investment from BDCs Thrive Venture Lab as part of its co-investment partnership with Spring.

"Being at the forefront of change requires bold, ambitious moves. At BDCs Thrive Lab, we know its possible to build a thriving business with the potential to scale and drive transformational societal change, comments Sevrine Labelle, Managing Director, BDCs Thrive Lab. By co-investing with like minded partners, we can work more efficiently to get critical funding into the hands of inspirational women at the speed of their business. Thats why were proud to partner with Spring and to announce our matching investment in Lite-1.

The announcement comes at a time when ESG investing is experiencing a backslide. According to Bloomberg, the global ESG market is in a decline, shrinking from $35 trillion (2020) to $30 trillion (2022)1.

Bridging the gap between purpose-driven founders and values-aligned investors is one of the biggest challenges of the startup ecosystem, comments Marlon Thompson, Chief Experience Officer, Spring. Through the IIC, Spring has developed a strong, repeatable framework for doing exactly that. The trajectory for past IIC participants - winners and participants alike - demonstrates a clear need for programs like these to exist.

For more information, please visit: https://spring.is/

1 https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-29/global-esg-market-shrinks-after-sizable-drop-in-us?leadSource=uverify%20wall

About Spring

Spring is a global community of innovators and investors, connected to create a sustainable, healthy and equitable world. They design and deliver programs and experiences to build an inclusive community of investors and support a diverse range of founders to scale their impactful solutions. In 2022 Spring launched Spring Investing Collective, Canadas Impact Investing Network, and in 2023 launched Spring Impact Capital. Nationally and globally, Spring unites founders and investors with the tools, knowledge and community to scale impact together for a better future. In September 2023, Spring acquired Future Capital to create an inclusive investment ecosystem across Canada.

For more information, please visit: https://spring.is/

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Dan Gamble

+1778 873 0422

[email protected]

Source: Spring
Share of 127-megawatt aggregated deal in collaboration with Eurofins Scientific will power over half of Thermo Fishers addressable European footprint with 100% renewable electricity by 2025

WALTHAM, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE: TMO), the world leader in serving science, today announced a 15-year virtual power purchasing agreement (VPPA) with international solar developer ib vogt. Thermo Fishers 91-megawatt portion of the Serbal solar project will deliver approximately 192,000 megawatt hours of renewable electricity annually. Eurofins Scientific, a global leader in bioanalytical testing, collaborated in the aggregated deal for a 36-megawatt portion of the project.

The project is expected to be operational in January 2025. Thermo Fishers share will match over half of the companys addressable European sites with 100% renewable electricity, and the aggregated share will simultaneously reduce both Thermo Fishers and Eurofins respective Scope 2 and Scope 3 emissions.

The participation of Eurofins in the Serbal solar project, which boasts a capacity of 36 megawatts, creating approximately 76,000 megawatt hours of renewable electricity annually, represents an important milestone on our path to Carbon Neutrality by 2025. It helps us to significantly reduce carbon emissions across the Eurofins network, ensuring that more than one-third of our addressable European footprint is powered by 100% renewable electricity, said Dr. Gilles G. Martin, chief executive officer, Eurofins Scientific. We have taken a novel, value-chain-based approach in working with Thermo Fisher Scientific, as a supplier and partner, to reduce our Scope 2 emissions caused by electricity consumption. We look forward to this collaboration with Thermo Fisher, as we strive to contribute to global climate goals.

To further accelerate its climate progress, Thermo Fisher has established a commitment to achieve 80% renewable electricity globally by 2030, in alignment with the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI) Health Systems Task Force joint supplier standards. This follows the companys recently raised commitment to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% by 2030 against a 2018 baseline, as well as its plans to power all of the companys U.S. sites with 100% renewable electricity by 2026 as it works to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

This new global climate goal not only strengthens our record of accelerated progress toward net-zero emissions, but it also underscores our collaborative approach on this journey, said Marc N. Casper, chairman, president and chief executive officer, Thermo Fisher Scientific. By working together with customers who share our vision for a healthier planet, we can achieve even greater impact across our collective value chains. We thank Eurofins for partnering with us on this meaningful action and ib vogt for the opportunity to expand our virtual power purchasing efforts beyond the US.

Renewable electricity offers a tangible way for global companies to reduce their emissions, said Anton Milner, chief executive officer, ib vogt. We want to thank Thermo Fisher and Eurofins for selecting this site and for taking an approach that will power their sustainability goals and move the life sciences industry to the next chapter in the energy transition to net zero.

Sustainability Roundtable Inc. advised Thermo Fisher and Eurofins on this VPPA. More information about Thermo Fishers environmental, social, and governance progress can be found at www.thermofisher.com/csr.

About Thermo Fisher Scientific

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. is the world leader in serving science, with annual revenue of approximately $40 billion. Our Mission is to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. Whether our customers are accelerating life sciences research, solving complex analytical challenges, increasing productivity in their laboratories, improving patient health through diagnostics or the development and manufacture of life-changing therapies, we are here to support them. Our global team delivers an unrivaled combination of innovative technologies, purchasing convenience and pharmaceutical services through our industry-leading brands, including Thermo Scientific, Applied Biosystems, Invitrogen, Fisher Scientific, Unity Lab Services, Patheon and PPD. For more information, please visit www.thermofisher.com.

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Media Contact:

Sandy Pound

Phone: 781-622-1223

E-mail: [email protected]

Investor Contact:

Rafael Tejada

Phone: 781-622-1356

E-mail: [email protected]

Source: Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
Acquires global tech platform to enable clients to fully realize their ESG goals.

SAN JOSE, Calif. & DUBAI, United Arab Emirates--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Uniqus Consultech Inc., the ESG and Accounting & Reporting Consulting company, announced it has acquired the global ESG business of Goodera.

Gooderas ESG tech platform is a well-established cloud-based software that helps corporates manage the performance of their sustainability programs. Using the platform, companies can automate the collection, maintenance, and approval of their ESG data; and ensure precise disclosures against global frameworks, standards, and rating requirements, including GRI, CSRD, SASB, ISSB, BRSR, DJSI, CDP to name a few.

As a part of the acquisition, Uniqus will acquire marquee global ESG clients using Gooderas ESG platform and the teams serving these clients will also become a part of Uniqus.

Post the acquisition, the platform is being renamed as ESG UniVerse. Uniqus is making significant investments in augmenting ESG UniVerse with best-in-class data management, reporting & AI-enabled smart search capabilities, and adding additional features such as GHG Inventorization, Value Chain Assessment, Peer Benchmarking, and ESG Maturity Assessment. Several of these additional capabilities are in advanced stages of development.

The acquisition is a part of Uniqus strategy of integrating technology with consulting to address client needs on a holistic basis. With the growing focus on ESG and related disclosures, clients will benefit through access to a technology platform that enables them to manage their varied ESG data and reporting requirements in an efficient and structured manner, while ensuring the highest level of data integrity. Clients will also benefit through access to the deep ESG domain knowledge and experience of Uniqus consulting practice.

Through this acquisition, Uniqus has further strengthened its ESG practice as it seeks to serve a US$10 billion addressable ESG market.

Jamil Khatri, Co-Founder & CEO of Uniqus, said, One of the major challenges faced by companies in the area of ESG is the weakly integrated data that resides across different information systems. By integrating Gooderas tech stack with our consulting expertise, our overall ESG offering will bridge this gap through a single platform for businesses to measure, monitor, analyze, benchmark, and improve their ESG performance, and meet regulatory and rating norms productively and accurately.

He further added, We are committed to make additional investments in our tech stack to address the emerging data requirements of our clients and build a next-generation ESG tech platform.

Sharing his views on the transaction, Abhishek Humbad, Founder and CEO of Goodera said, Uniqus ESG practice has deep experience and skills to assist companies with their ESG needs, including the overall ESG strategy, climate action goals, reporting frameworks, and implementation support in line with global standards. The combination of the deep domain expertise of Uniqus and the Goodera ESG platform will be hugely valuable to companies as they manage global compliance and make progress on their ESG journey.

About Uniqus Consultech:

Uniqus Consultech is a global consulting company that specializes in ESG and Accounting & Reporting Consulting. The Company is co-founded by consulting veterans Jamil Khatri and Sandip Khetan and backed by marquee investors such as Nexus Venture Partners, Sorin Investments, and other angel investors. Anu Chaudhary, a global ESG specialist with over 20 years of experience, serves as the Global Head of ESG.

With operations in the US, India, and the Middle East, Uniqus is committed to leveraging technology and an integrated global delivery model to provide best-in-class consulting services that drive measurable results and create long-term value for its clients.

For more information, please visit: www.uniqus.com

Stay connected with us on LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter

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Media Contact : Maitri Satra | [email protected] | [email protected]

Source: Uniqus Consultech Inc.
FRANKFURT AM MAIN, Germany--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Zafin, the leading provider of SaaS product and pricing platform solutions for banks, announces today it has won the 2023 Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN) Best-in-Class Partner Award.

The company was honored with this distinction for the development of Zafin Integrate and Orchestrate (IO) a foundational technology platform and BIAN based solution.

In 2023, Zafin collaborated with the team at Wells Fargo to accelerate and ease integration between the bank core and the Zafin SaaS platform. Initial project outcomes estimate a 50% reduction in integration efforts due to the use of the BIAN-based standards and a 70% reduction in time allotted to introduce product and pricing changes through the adoption of the Zafin platform.

"We set out with the clarity in our modernization strategy that we are focused on transformation and enabling our teams to be more agile and responsive to our customers while simplifying the core for eventual replacement of the ledger. This supports our focus on enterprise product and pricing as one of the starting pillars to make an impact for our customers as quickly as possible," stated Alan Varrasso, Chief Information Officer, Wells Fargo.

Todd Schmitter, Distinguished Engineer at Wells Fargo said: Seamless integration and loose coupling with vendors is an important aspect of our modern architecture. Zafins embrace of BIAN as a standard for interoperability aligns with Wells Fargos interest in promoting BIAN as a standard. It has been encouraging to see Zafins commitment to making it happen for the Product and Pricing domain.

The Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN) is pleased to recognize Zafin with the Best-in-Class Partner award for creating Zafin IO, a BIAN based solution to help their client, Wells Fargo through their business transformation, yielding very strong results that positively impact their banking operations, stated Hans Tesselaar, Executive Director, BIAN.

This award is a testament to our commitment to provide innovative technology that eases integration between banks ecosystems and Zafins cloud-native SaaS product and pricing platform freeing financial institutions from the constraints of traditional boundaries, stated Shahir Daya, Chief Technology Officer, Zafin. We value our collaboration with the BIAN group to accelerate change and drive innovation for banks.

About Zafin: www.zafin.com

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Zafin in Europe

econNEWSnetwork

Carsten Heer

[email protected]

Source: Zafin
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Azerbaijans Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeyhun Bayramov has met with US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs James O'Brien, Trend reports citing the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.

The meeting revolved around the bilateral and multilateral cooperation agenda between the two countries, the current situation in the region, as well as the prospects of the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

The sides highlighted the importance of historic cooperation between Azerbaijan and the United States in a number of areas, stressing the significance of bolstering bilateral relations based on mutual interests.

Minister Jeyhun Bayramov emphasized that Azerbaijan, as the initiator of the main elements of the peace process with Armenia, is an interested party in establishing peace and stability in the region.

FM Bayramov also underscored the importance of intensification of the border delimitation negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia on a bilateral basis, which is one of the other directions of normalization.

The two also exchanged views on other bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest.
FILE PHOTO: An aerial view shows a crude oil tanker at an oil terminal off Waidiao island in Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, China January 4, 2023. China Daily via REUTERS

By Arathy Somasekhar

HOUSTON (Reuters) -Oil prices fell nearly 4% on Wednesday to their lowest settlements since June, as worries about global fuel demand mounted after U.S. data showed a larger-than-expected rise in gasoline inventories.

Brent crude futures settled down $2.90, or 3.8%, at $74.30 a barrel. U.S. WTI crude futures fell by $2.94, or 4.1%, to $69.38 a barrel.

"There is demand destruction coming in from the fuel side,"said Dennis Kissler, senior vice president of trading at BOK Financial.

"The market is more demand focused than supply focused right now."

Concerns over China's economic health and future fuel demand also weighed on prices, a day after rating agency Moody's lowered the outlook on China's A1 rating to negative from stable.

U.S. gasoline stocks rose by 5.4 million barrels last week, the Energy Information Administration said, more than quintuple the 1 million-barrel rise that analysts had expected. U.S. gasoline futures plummeted to their lowest in two years.

"Even though it was not the peak gasoline season, demand during the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend was lackluster," said John Kilduff, partner with Again Capital LLC.

Gasoline demand last week lagged the 10-year seasonal average by 2.5%.

The U.S. dollar also touched a two-week high, which pressures demand by making oil more expensive for holders of other currencies.

An unexpected fall in U.S. crude inventories did little to support prices. Crude inventories fell by 4.6 million barrels, far exceeding the 1.4 million-barrel drop analysts had expected. [EIA/S]

OPEC+, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies such as Russia agreed late last week on voluntary output cuts of about 2.2 million barrels per day (bpd) for the first quarter of 2024.

This week, Saudi and Russian officials said the cuts should prevent a build up in oil inventories in the first quarter and could be extended or deepened.

Despite the OPEC+ supply curbs, prices have slipped nearly 11% since the settlement on Nov. 29, the day before OPEC+ met.

On Wednesday, Russian president Vladimir Putin traveled to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia to meet with the UAE's President Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Oil and OPEC+ were on the agenda.

Forward prices for U.S. crude were at their steepest premium to prompt barrels, a sign of ample supply and growing fears of slow demand.

(Reporting by Arathy Somasekhar and Georgina McCartney in Houston, Robert Harvey in London, Andrew Hayley in Beijing and Trixie Yap in Singapore, Editing by Louise Heavens, Elaine Hardcastle, Simon Webb and David Gregorio)
Chevron Corporation (NYSE: CVX) today announced an expected organic capital expenditure range of $15.5 to $16.5 billion for consolidated subsidiaries (capex) and an affiliate capital expenditure (affiliate capex) budget of approximately $3 billion for 2024.

Upstream spending in 2024 is expected to be about $14 billion. Of this planned expenditure, two-thirds is allocated to the United States, including approximately $6.5 billion to develop Chevrons U.S. shale and tight portfolio, of which around $5 billion is planned for Permian Basin development. About 25 percent of U.S. upstream capex is planned for projects in the Gulf of Mexico, including the Anchor project, which is expected to achieve first oil in 2024.

Downstream capex is expected to be roughly $1.5 billion, with 80 percent allocated to the United States. Corporate and other capex is projected to be about $0.5 billion.

Included in the upstream and downstream budgets is approximately $2 billion in lower carbon capex to lower the carbon intensity of traditional operations and grow new energy business lines. Chevrons Geismar renewable diesel expansion project is expected to start-up in 2024.

Nearly half of affiliate capex is planned for Tengizchevroils FGP / WPMP project in Kazakhstan and about a third is planned for Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, including the Golden Triangle Polymer Project and Ras Laffan Petrochemical Project. WPMP field conversion is forecasted to begin start-up in the first half of 2024.

Were maintaining capital discipline in both traditional and new energies, said Chevron Chairman and CEO Mike Wirth. These investments are expected to underpin durable free cash flow growth to support our objective of returning more cash to shareholders.

With the acquisition of PDC Energy, Chevron announced an annual capex guidance range of $14 to $16 billion through 2027. On October 23, 2023, Chevron announced that it had entered into an agreement to acquire Hess Corporation. This acquisition is expected to close in the first half of 2024, subject to Hess shareholder approval, regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Following closing of the acquisition, Chevrons annual capex budget is expected to be between $19 and $22 billion.
CN (TSX: CNR) (NYSE: CNI) today announced that it has signed and closed an agreement to acquire Iowa Northern Railway (IANR), which operates approximately 275 track miles in Iowa connecting to CNs U.S. rail network. The transaction closed into an independent voting trust pending regulatory review of the transaction by the U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB).

IANR serves upper Midwest agricultural and industrial markets covering many goods, including biofuels and grain. This transaction represents a meaningful opportunity to support the growth of local business by creating single-line service to North American destinations, while preserving access to existing carrier options.

We are delighted to have reached an agreement with Iowa Northern Railway. We look forward to the opportunities our combined network will provide customers, farmers, and our partners to respond to the needs of their existing and new markets. By enabling all of us to play an even more important role in this critical supply chain and densifying our southern network, we are accelerating sustainable, profitable growth.

- Tracy Robinson, President and Chief Executive Officer at CN

We are very pleased to have reached a deal with CN. We believe CN shares IANRs commitment to local stakeholders and that this transaction will be beneficial for customers, employees and the local Iowa economy. We are confident that, as part of CN, IANR will be able to continue to provide reliable first and last mile service to our local customers while providing them access to a much broader network and market.

- Daniel Sabin, Chairman at Iowa Northern Railway

The terms of this transaction were not disclosed. An STB decision regarding the transaction is expected in 2024.
Equity Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE: EQBK) announced today its entry into a definitive merger agreement with Rockhold Bancorp (Rockhold), the parent company of the Bank of Kirksville in Kirksville, Missouri. Bank of Kirksville will merge into Equity Bank, adding eight locations to Equity Banks current network.

We couldnt be more pleased to add another strong community bank to our network and continue to serve our Missouri customer base with additional locations, technology, and customized solutions for businesses and families, said Brad Elliott, Equity Chairman & Chief Executive Officer. Our teams continue to work diligently to add customers, colleagues, and market locations within our four-state footprint, and were pleased to enter Kirksville and serve a vibrant customer base.

We are proud of our newest chapter, joining Equity Bank. Each bank has roots in community values, and dedication to Missouri customers, said Bank of Kirksville Chief Executive Officer Norman Belitz. Equity is committed to our region and serves customers like ours with sophisticated loan, deposit, and online banking products.

Under the terms of the merger agreement, Equity will pay approximately $44.3 million in cash to acquire Rockhold and Bank of Kirksville. Following completion of the merger in the first quarter of 2024, Bank of Kirksville will merge with and into Equity Bank.

The actual aggregate transaction value may be subject to adjustment based on the adjusted equity capital of Rockhold as of the closing, as further set forth in the definitive merger agreement. The closing of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval. Rockholds sole shareholder has approved the transaction.

Equity expects the merger to be $0.36, or 12 percent accretive, to diluted earnings per share in 2024, and $0.45, or 14.3 percent accretive, to earnings per share in 2025 and expects the tangible book value earn back to be approximately 1.3 years.

Established in 1914, Bank of Kirksville currently operates eight locations in North Central Missouri, including three in Kirksville and one each in LaPlata, Downing, Memphis, Macon, and Moberly. Bank of Kirksville had $406 million in consolidated total assets, $344 million in total deposits, including $311 million in core deposits, and $122 million in loans as of September 30, 2023.

Equity reported $4.9 billion in consolidated total assets, deposits of $4.1 billion and gross loans of $3.3 billion as of September 30, 2023. A pro forma Equity, including eight Bank of Kirksville locations, will comprise a network of 74 bank locations, including 23 offices in Missouri, and $5.4 billion in total assets. Following the closing of the transaction, Norman Belitz, Chief Executive Officer of Bank of Kirksville, will join Equity Bank as Regional Market President.

Since 2002, Equity Bank has completed 22 combined whole-bank, deposit, or branch acquisitions, including 10 whole-bank acquisitions since the Companys IPO in 2015.

Stable, strong community markets, including regional hubs for education, industry, agriculture and manufacturing, are key to our success as a bank, emphasized Mr. Elliott. We are eager to serve our new customers in North Central Missouri, and were pleased to partner with Bank of Kirksville.

Equity Bancshares, Inc. was advised by and received a fairness opinion from Stephens Inc. Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP served as legal counsel to Equity.

Bank of Kirksville was advised by and received a fairness opinion from The Capital Corporation. Stinson LLP served as legal counsel to Rockhold.

Bond Portfolio Repositioning

Equity also announced the sale of approximately $442.0 million of available-for-sale investment securities, generating an after-tax loss of approximately $38.2 million. The transaction will be neutral to tangible common equity while improving balance sheet efficiency. The assets sold are comprised primarily of treasury, agency, and mortgage-backed securities with a weighted average yield of 1.33%. The proceeds from the transaction will be re-deployed in cash, investment, and loan assets with an expected yield in excess of 5.00%. Equity anticipates the repositioning will contribute additional, annual interest income of approximately $16.2 million, producing estimated earnings per share accretion of $0.81 in 2024.

Were pleased to be able to reposition our bond portfolio, which we anticipate will provide significant earnings benefit in 2024, Mr. Elliott said. Our bankers have worked hard to build a strong capital base allowing the Company to optimize our balance sheet, driving improved earnings while maintaining capital strength and enhancing liquidity.

The impact of each of these transactions will help drive earnings in 2024 and highlight our ability to maintain a strong balance sheet while integrating community banks, continued Mr. Elliott. Our proactive approach will yield future shareholder value and is within our strategy of maintaining strong capital while reviewing opportunities to enhance our banking franchise.

Conference Call and Webcast

Equitys Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brad Elliott, President Rick Sems, and Chief Financial Officer Chris Navratil will hold a conference call and webcast to discuss the merger with Bank of Kirksville and the bond portfolio repositioning on December 6, 2023, at 10 a.m. eastern time; 9 a.m. central time.

A live webcast of the call will be available on the Companys website at investor.equitybank.com. To access the call by phone, please go to this registration link, and you will be provided with dial in details. Investors, news media, and other participants are encouraged to dial into the conference call ten minutes ahead of the scheduled start time.

A replay of the call and webcast will be available two hours following the close of the call until December 21, 2023, accessible at investor.equitybank.com.
Ford Motors (NYSE: F) revealed Wednesday that their Mustang Mach-E electric vehicles currently occupying dealership lots are unlikely to meet the criteria for federal tax credits starting in January.

Recent guidance from the U.S. Treasury outlined fresh limitations on battery sourcing set to take effect on January 1st. These restrictions aim to steer the U.S. EV supply chain away from dependence on China.

Current existing models of the Mach-E qualify for a $3,750 federal tax credit.

CarsDirect was the first to report the news regarding the EV tax credit, referencing a bulletin sent to dealers that emphasized the imminent expiration of the tax credit as a compelling reason for customers to make their purchases before December 31. Dealers were encouraged to finalize sales by the year's end.

Ford has sold 35,908 Mach-Es in the U.S. during the first 11 months of this year, marking a 3.5% increase compared to the same time last year. In response to this, Ford announced in October a reduction in some Mach-E production.

Furthermore, Ford disclosed in October that it would be deferring around $12 billion worth of investments in EVs, including a delay in the construction of its second battery plant situated in Kentucky.

Back in October, Ford announced a temporary reduction of one out of three shifts at its Michigan plant responsible for producing the electric F-150 Lightning pickup truck. This decision was attributed to various constraints, including issues within the supply chain.

In December 2021, Ford had outlined plans to significantly increase the production of its all-electric Mustang Mach-E, aiming to ramp up output to over 200,000 units annually by 2023 for both North America and Europe.

Shares of F are up 1.04% in afternoon trading on Wednesday.

By Michael Elkins | [email protected]
MSA Safety, Inc. (NYSE: MSA) today announced it was awarded a $35 million contract with the U.S. Air Force to provide its air base fire brigades with new respiratory protective equipment. The contract covers the supply of MSA's G1 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) model along with related facepieces, chemical warfare component (CWC) masks, and supplied-air respirator (SAR) kits, which enable the SCBA to be used as a longer-duration airline device. The units will replace older model MSA air masks and will be used by U.S. Air Force fire brigades operating at U.S. air bases around the world.

"We are incredibly proud the U.S. Air Force has once again put their trust and confidence in the MSA brand," said Nish Vartanian , MSA Safety Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "In developing the G1 breathing apparatus, our goal was to create the most advanced and versatile SCBA platform available; one that allows new technologies to be added continuously to improve firefighter health and safety," he concluded.

With more than 15 patents, the G1 SCBA platform includes several breakthrough features, such as the elimination of electronic components from the facepiece; a "Central Power" design that powers the entire unit from a single, rechargeable battery; darkness- and smoke-piercing "buddy lights" that provide visible indicators of critical air supply data from any angle; and improved voice amplification communications, all of which are standard G1 features.

From a comfort perspective, the G1's unique ergonomic design, combined with an adjustable waist belt and wide shoulder straps, allows SCBA weight to be distributed more evenly on a firefighter's hips. Collectively, these features make the SCBA more comfortable when worn for longer periods of time.
Nissan and Mitsubishi announced Wednesday, plans to invest in long-standing partner, Renaults electric vehicle unit called Ampere. The two automakers confirmed plans to use Ampere to develop EVs for the European market.

Following years of tense collaboration, the recent announcement confirms a new, more streamlined alliance among the trio of automakers, placing a stronger emphasis on regional collaboration.

Specifically, Nissan and Mitsubishi have confirmed their individual commitments to invest up to 600 million euros ($647.46 million) and 200 million euros, respectively, into Ampere. This division, carved out from Renault, is scheduled for a public listing in the coming year.

Makoto Uchida, CEO of the Japanese carmaker, outlined Nissan's intention to become a "strategic investor" in Ampere. He expressed interest in potentially leveraging the EV unit's software and connectivity advancements in markets beyond Europe, indicating a broader application of these innovations.

"Developing electric vehicles all over the world alone would be very challenging," said Uchida.

Ampere will undertake the development and production of an electric variant of the compact Nissan Micra tailored for the European market. Additionally, the company will focus on creating a medium-sized electric SUV specifically designed for Mitsubishi.

Ampere CEO, Luca de Meo stated that his company will cut the costs for the Micra for Nissan by up to 50%.

The alliance partners also affirmed their collaborative ventures in Latin America and India.

By Michael Elkins | [email protected]
Yum! Brands (NYSE: YUM) KFC Division today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire over 200 KFC restaurants from EG Group, the companys largest KFC franchisee in the UK and Ireland.

The transaction represents a significant opportunity to accelerate KFCs growth strategy in the large and growing UK and Ireland chicken market, with high average unit volumes and robust margins. The experienced KFC UK management team, which currently operates a leading set of 50 high-performing company-owned restaurants across the UK and Ireland, will focus on delivering an enhanced customer experience and deploying its digital strategy to drive higher unit volumes and market share growth.

KFC UK and Ireland has a strong track record of consistent growth that has continued this year, with system sales up 7% and same-store sales up 5% across its 1,040 restaurants. Since 2018, KFC has opened 200 new restaurants across the UK and Ireland, and with the market demonstrating renewed potential since the start of 2023, KFC has previously announced plans to open a further 500 restaurants across the market by 2030.

Once completed, all of EGs KFC UK and Ireland business  over half of which is made up of drive-thrus  and 7,800 team members will come under KFC UK and Ireland management. This acquisition will cement the compelling leadership position that KFC has built across the UK and Ireland over many years  allowing the business to drive growth and gain market share.

Commenting on the transaction, Sabir Sami, KFC Division Chief Executive Officer, said: The KFC business is a powerhouse for Yum! globally and the UK and Ireland is one of our strongest markets. Over the past five years, weve secured our leadership position within the UK and Ireland chicken market, opening 200 new restaurants, and were now close to being a 2 billion business in the UK, thanks to our extremely talented local management team. Were pleased to add these restaurants to our equity portfolio, in a market where we are well placed to drive strong growth while also making further digital and strategic progress.

Meg Farren, Managing Director of KFC UK and Ireland, added: EG has played an important role in helping KFC expand its footprint across the UK and Ireland, and the KFC brand has been a big part of EGs own growth in recent decades. With the market for high-quality, great-tasting chicken growing all the time, we see a big opportunity to capitalize on our leadership position and to unlock new value for all our stakeholders in the UK and Ireland, especially our customers and the communities were so proud to serve. On behalf of all of us on the management team, I want to welcome EGs KFC restaurant team members even closer into the KFC family.

Zuber Issa and Mohsin Issa, CBE co-founders and co-CEOs of EG Group, said: We are proud to have been a strategic partner of KFC in the UK and Ireland, playing an important role in helping the brand expand its footprint. Now is the right time to hand the baton to the KFC leadership team to continue to grow the brand in the UK. This is the latest transaction in our significant deleveraging this year  to put in place a sustainable capital structure. I would like to thank all the colleagues who have helped deliver such exceptional brand standards and customer service over recent years, including during the COVID-19 period."

Yum! anticipates finalizing the transaction by the end of the first half of 2024. The transaction will be funded from Yum!s cash flows and is expected to have an immaterial impact on Yum!s 2024 financial results. With this acquisition, Yum! Brands maintains its highly efficient asset-light strategy including a global restaurant base thats predominately franchisee-owned.
Investing.com -- ExxonMobil (NYSE: XOM) has announced that it plans to increase the pace of its share buybacks after the oil major closes its $60 billion takeover of shale producer Pioneer Natural Resources (NYSE: PXD).

In a statement on Wednesday, Texas-based ExxonMobil said it will aim to bump annual repurchases up to $20 billion through 2025 once the deal is closed. The company added that it remains on track to complete its current goal of giving $17.5B back to stakeholders this year as part of a broader $35B share repurchase program.

ExxonMobil also predicted that it will produce 3.8 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd) in 2024, thanks to growth in the lucrative Permian basin and Guyana. The firm has said that it expects output to remain flat until the end of this year, at 3.7M boepd, following its decision to exit its operations in Russia.

Shares in ExxonMobil were marginally higher in U.S. premarket trading.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. There are currently more than 1.5 million mines and unexploded ordnance in Azerbaijan's territories liberated from Armenian occupation, according to preliminary data, Executive Director of the NGO State Support Agency Aygun Aliyeva said, Trend reports.

She spoke at the International Baku Forum on "Healthy environment and mine-free life to achieve sustainable development goals".

Aliyeva noted that the international community's negligent attitude to the contamination of Azerbaijani territories with mines and unexploded ordnance leads to the delay of reconstruction and construction work, as well as the return of Azerbaijanis to their native lands.

She emphasized that more than 60 countries of the world suffer from mines and unexploded ordnance.

"I regret to note that Azerbaijan is at the top of this list," Aliyeva added.

The International Baku Forum on "Healthy environment and mine-free life to achieve sustainable development goals" is being held today under the organization of the State Support Agency for Non-Governmental Organizations of Azerbaijan.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Fairfax, VA, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- To address the need forand recognize the value ofinnovation in intelligence, AFCEA International recently announced a new Award for Excellence in Defense Scientific & Technical Intelligence S&TI). Sponsored by AFCEA's Intelligence Committee, the award recognizes and promotes achievement within the DoDs S&TI enterprise.

Submissions are open and will be accepted through Friday, January 19, 2024.

Under the broad umbrella of S&TI there are three primary subcategories: Foundational Military Intelligence, Intelligence Analysis and Intelligence Innovation.

This unique award shines a light on the ever-impressive achievements of our S&TI workforce and how they tirelessly work to maintain a competitive advantage, said Lewis Shepherd, the committee chair. AFCEA's Intelligence Committee is well-positioned to encourage achievement and increase awareness about S&TI accomplishments that are not often publicized.

Individuals and teams will be recognized. The individual award is open to active duty and Reserve military members and federal government employees. The team award is open to those categories as well as civilian contractors. Awardees will be selected from nominations received from individual commands or agencies that are subordinate to one of the 18 intelligence community organizations.

Nominees must have made a specific, demonstrable contribution to the advancement of scientific and technical intelligence in one or more of the following categories: Foundational Military Intelligence, Intelligence Analysis or Intelligence Innovation. The selection panel will consider submissions that recognize the doctrinal, financial, organizational or other dimensions of these categories, as well as initiative, leadership and professional insight.

A selection panel of current and former intelligence community leadersincluding representatives from the private sector and academiawill select the awardees. Winners will be announced approximately one month in advance of the award presentations at the annual AFCEA International Spring Intelligence Symposium on March 12-13, 2024, at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency Campus East Conference Center in Springfield, Virginia.

Maryann Lawlor AFCEA International (703) 631-6179 [email protected]

Source: AFCEA International
SAN DIEGO, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Affirmed Housing, a leading provider of affordable housing throughout California, in partnership on a long-term ground lease with HP Investors, a San Diego-based real estate investment and management company, announces that construction has commenced on Symphony at Del Sur, a new mixed-use, workforce housing community located in San Diegos Del Sur neighborhood and within the Poway Unified School District.

Once complete, Symphony at Del Sur will deliver more attainable housing options and seamless living opportunities for middle-income families and local workers who are otherwise commuting long distances to work. The complex will feature 171 apartments for households earning between 30 and 80 percent of the area median income (AMI), as well as 8,768 sq. ft. of commercial retail space for a future tenant, such as a restaurant, that will provide a gathering place for families and generate jobs in the area.

This project demonstrates whats possible when we come together to execute on a common goal  housing hardworking San Diegans, Mayor Todd Gloria said. Im proud that our Affordable Housing Permit Now program, which stemmed from my executive order to streamline permitting for affordable housing projects, has helped Affirmed Housing get these critically needed, rent-restricted new homes through the process so quickly.

Symphony at Del Surs development uniquely leverages only federal and state tax credits, along with conventional permanent debt. Working alongside the City to secure necessary approvals, Affirmed Housing tapped Affordable Housing Permit Now, a program created this year by the Citys Development Services Department in response to an executive order issued by Mayor Gloria directing City staff to streamline the ministerial permit process for affordable, workforce housing projects. The programs accelerated timeline benefits allowed Affirmed Housing to obtain building permits in roughly five months, rather than the more typical 9+-month timeline. The development, one of the first to use the new program, has been well received.

Ensuring safe, high-quality housing for citizens at all income levels is paramount for cities health and prosperity, and the City of San Diego has been a consistent, reliable partner providing the tools necessary to deliver urgently needed housing resources quickly and efficiently, said Affirmed Housing President Jimmy Silverwood. Symphony at Del Sur showcases whats possible under these policies, and it raises the bar on what it looks like to build sustainable and inclusive communities that everyone can enjoy.

Symphony at Del Sur is situated on an approximately 3.2-acre site, making use of creative layout strategies to maximize buildable space on the lands unique topography. With height sensitivities in mind, the projects structures are capped out at three stories and will contain 171 apartment homes in a mixture of one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom units, two of which are set aside for the onsite property managers. Each apartment will come with energy-efficient appliances and HVAC. Offsetting a large portion of the tenant electrical load, all available rooftop space will be utilized for solar PV. For added sustainability, water-saving measures will also be employed throughout the all-electric residential portion of the project.

Incorporated throughout the development are several shared amenities designed to foster community engagement. In addition to the shared laundry room, the first floor will house a community room, an activity-learning center for after-school programs, multiple recreation areas, and property management offices. Outdoor amenities, including play areas for children ages 2-12 and 13-17, will be provided in five main courtyards distributed across the site, and there will be a three-story garage structure for residential and commercial parking. Residents will also have complimentary access to onsite services and programs relating to financial literacy, health and wellness, resume building, parenting and computer training. An onsite service coordinator will plan community-building activities.

Further supporting Affirmed Housings emphasis on seamless living, Symphony at Del Sur is located within a high-resource area, giving residents easy access to several off-site amenities. Conveniently located nearby are a public park, public library, grocery store, medical center and pharmacy.

Affirmed Housings development partners for Symphony at Del Sur include: DAHLIN Architecture Planning, Project Design Consultants a Bowman Company, NOVA Engineering and Form/Work Landscape Architecture. HA Builder, an affiliate of Affirmed Housing, is the projects general contractor.

About Affirmed Housing

Affirmed Housing is a leader in affordable, multifamily housing development, delivering safe, sustainable, high-quality communities for families, veterans, seniors and people experiencing homelessness. The company works with municipalities and private owners throughout California to promote housing stability and neighborhood well-being by leveraging deep expertise in public finance, low-income housing tax credits, and tax-exempt bond finance, as well as site selection, engineering, architecture, construction, relocation and marketing. Since 1992, Affirmed Housing has financed more than $2.8 billion in affordable and supportive development, with 5,800 homes developed or under development in 70 communities. The company has offices in San Diego and San Jose. Visit: www.affirmedhousing.com.

About HP Investors

HP Investors is a real estate investment firm focusing on acquisition, development, and management of commercial properties in high-barrier-to entry markets along the U.S. West Coast. Vertically integrated and focused on long-term investment horizons, the firm has acquired more than 80 assets since being founded in 2010. Going beyond typical market research, HP Investors creates information advantages through its deep local relationships with community leaders and interest groups. This deeper level of research provides the firm with the ability to make better investment decisions. HP Investors has offices in San Diego, Los Angeles and Oakland. Visit: www.hpinvestors.com.

Contacts: Vicky Jay Blattel Communications 415.413.4526 [email protected]

Source: Affirmed Housing
DALLAS, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AMN Healthcare Services, Inc. (NYSE: AMN), the leader and innovator in total talent solutions for healthcare organizations across the United States, has been recognized as one of Americas Most Responsible Companies for 2024. This recognition is a tribute to AMN Healthcares excellence in corporate citizenship and commitment to Environment, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG). This prestigious award is presented by Newsweek and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider. Americas Most Responsible Companies ranking focuses on a holistic view of corporate responsibility that considers all three pillars of ESG and is based on two metrics:



Key performance indicators (KPI) research: The KPI research formed the first part of the detailed analysis. Over 30 KPIs have been researched for the top 2,000 public companies by revenue with headquarters in the USA.



The KPI research formed the first part of the detailed analysis. Over 30 KPIs have been researched for the top 2,000 public companies by revenue with headquarters in the USA. Public Survey: The survey was the second part of the detailed analysis to evaluate the companies corporate social responsibility (CSR) reputation. 17,000 U.S. residents were surveyed. Respondents were asked to select companies familiar to them and then to evaluate the companys CSR performance in general and in the three subdimensions: social, environmental and governance.

In the final step, an overall score was calculated for each company that had been analyzed. The final list recognizes the top 600 most responsible companies in the United States, spanning 14 industries.

"We are proud to be recognized, for the fifth consecutive year, for our commitment to a healthy, just, equitable, and sustainable world where all can thrive," said Cary Grace, President and CEO of AMN Healthcare. "AMN Healthcare embraces this commitment and will continue our dedication to creating sustainable and equitable outcomes as we empower the future of care and the health of our communities."

About Statista

Statista publishes hundreds of worldwide industry rankings and company listings with high profile media partners. This research and analysis service is based on the success of statista.com, the leading data and business intelligence portal that provides statistics, business-relevant data, and various market and consumer studies and surveys.

About AMN Healthcare

AMN Healthcare is the leader and innovator in total talent solutions for healthcare organizations across the United States. The Company provides access to the most comprehensive network of quality healthcare professionals through its innovative recruitment strategies and breadth of career opportunities. With insights and expertise, AMN Healthcare helps providers optimize their workforce to successfully reduce complexity, increase efficiency and improve patient outcomes. AMN total talent solutions include managed services programs, clinical and interim healthcare leaders, temporary staffing, permanent placement, executive search solutions, vendor management systems, recruitment process outsourcing, predictive modeling, language interpretation services, revenue cycle solutions, and other services. Clients include acute-care hospitals, community health centers and clinics, physician practice groups, retail and urgent care centers, home health facilities, schools, and many other healthcare settings. AMN Healthcare is committed to fostering and maintaining a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve. Our commitment to the inclusion of many different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives enables our innovation and leadership in the healthcare services industry. For more information about AMN Healthcare, visit www.amnhealthcare.com.
HOUSTON, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Beyond Finance, one of the nation's largest debt resolution organizations, is proud to announce the addition of "Financial Practice Week" in Chases Calendar of Events 2024: The Ultimate Go-to Guide for Special Days, Weeks and Months, 67th Edition.

Financial Practice Week will increase the value of Aprils Financial Literacy Month by encouraging and empowering consumers to put what they have learned about finances into practice and long-term action. The week will ensure that consumers can practically apply what theyve learned.

"Increasing the financial literacy of anyone is critical," said Beyond Finance's Chief Financial Wellness Advisor and Creator of Financial Practice Week, Dr. Erika Rasure. "But empowering consumers to put their new understanding into practice is the key to their future financial success. Thats why Im so proud to help grow this important weekdebt is something you have, not who you are."

Featured on page 234 of Chases guide, Financial Practice Week will be observed for the first time from April 22-26, 2024. The week is designed to encourage consumers to embrace positive, actionable changes in financial behaviors, fostering a shift away from the cycle of debt. This recognition aligns with the broader initiatives the financial services industry encourages during April's "Financial Literacy Month."

Beyond Finance's mention in Chases Calendar of Events 2024 underscores the company's commitment to helping move people beyond debt and transforming lives through innovative and practical financial solutions.

"We are honored to be recognized in Chases Calendar of Events 2024 for our efforts during Financial Practice Week. Beyond Finance believes in the power of education and daily practice to break the cycle of debt and empower individuals to take control of their financial futures," said Beyond Finance Chief Operating Officer Lou Antonelli.

For more information about Financial Practice Week and Beyond Finance's commitment to sound financial practice, contact [email protected].

About Beyond Finance, LLCBeyond Finance, LLC, based in Houston, is one of the nations largest, most successful, and most influential debt consolidation services organizations. By standing alongside clients wherever they are in their debt journey, Beyond Finance uses personalized debt resolution programs and proprietary technology to give them the clarity, confidence, and tools they need to help move beyond debt. Since 2017, they have resolved more than $1 billion in client debt. In June 2020, they merged with an affiliate to become the dedicated company they are today. They have additional offices in Fort Worth, Chicago, San Diego, and Irvine, California. For more information, visit BeyondFinance.com.

About Chases Calendar of EventsChases Calendar of Events has been the worlds datebook since 1957. It is the most comprehensive and authoritative reference available on special events, worldwide holidays and festivals, civic observances, historic anniversaries, famous birthdays and much more. Hundreds of new entries are submitted each spring to join the more than 12,500 items that comprise each years edition. For more information, visit rowman.com/page/chases.

MEDIA CONTACT:Yolanda Schufford[email protected]

Shawn Paul Wood[email protected]

Source: Beyond Finance LLC
METTAWA, Ill., Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), the worlds largest marine technology company, has been named one of Americas Most Responsible Companies by Newsweek for the fourth consecutive year. From the thousands U.S. companies considered for this honor, only 600 made the Newsweek list of honorees.

Throughout 2023, Brunswick has been recognized with numerous accolades for its industry-leading environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) efforts. Specifically, the Company was recognized on the Climate Leaders List by USA Today; named one of the Best Companies to Work for by U.S. News & World Report; and Forbes has consistently recognized Brunswick on its Worlds Best Employers, Americas Best Large Employers, Americas Best Employers for Veterans lists. Additionally, its Mercury Marine division recently earned a 13th consecutive Green Masters designation for sustainable business practices and initiatives from the Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council.

We are honored to be recognized once again as one of Newsweeks Most Responsible Companies, said Dave Foulkes, Brunswick Corporation CEO. Protecting our environment is a critical element of serving our stakeholders and ensuring the long-term success of our business. Its a commitment that we have and will continue to embed into the core of Brunswick through sustainable initiatives across our business ecosystem.

More than 2,000 public companies with headquarters in the U.S. were considered for this honor analyzing more than 30 KPIs. Additionally, more than 17,000 U.S. residents were surveyed to evaluate CSR performance, as well as the three sub-dimensions: social, environmental, and governance. The award recognizes U.S. companies for their ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility, particularly related to ESG initiatives.

View the entire 2023 Americas Most Responsible Companies list here and learn more about Brunswicks commitment to corporate responsibility here .

About Brunswick Corporation:
TORONTO, Dec. 05, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canadian North Resources Inc. ("the Company," TSXV: CNRI; OTCQX: CNRSF; FSE: EO0 (E-O-zero)) is pleased to announce the engagement of Independent Trading Group (ITG), Inc. ("ITG") to provide certain market-making services to the Company pursuant to an agreement (the Agreement), dated December 1, 2023.

ITG will trade the securities of the Company on the TSX Venture Exchange to maintain an orderly market and improve the liquidity of the Company's common shares. In consideration of the services provided by ITG, the Company will pay ITG a monthly cash fee of $5,000 for an initial term of one month, which will automatically extend for successive one-month terms unless terminated by either party on 30 days' prior written notice. The services to be provided by ITG commenced on December 1, 2023.

Neither ITG nor its affiliates or associates has any interest directly or indirectly in the Company or its securities or any right or intent to acquire such an interest. ITG will not receive shares or other securities as compensation. ITG is at arm's length to Canadian North Resources and has no other relationship with the Company except pursuant to the Agreement. ITG will provide the capital used for market making.

ITG is an independent, privately held broker-dealer based in Toronto, Ontario, that provides a wide range of financial and investment services and is registered with the CSE, NEO, Toronto Stock Exchange and TSX-V along with the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC).

About Canadian North Resources

Canadian North Resources Inc. is an exploration and development company focusing on the critical metals for the clean-energy, electric vehicles, battery and high-tech industries. The company is advancing its 100% owned Ferguson Lake nickel, copper, cobalt, palladium, and platinum project that covers an area of 253.8 km2 of mining leases (96.9 km2) and surrounding exploration claims (156.9 km2) in the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut, Canada.

The Ferguson Lake mining property contains substantial resources in compliance with NI43-101 standards, which include Indicated Mineral Resources of 24.3 million tonnes containing 455 million pounds (Mlb) copper at 0.85%, 321Mlb nickel at 0.60%, 37.5Mlb cobalt at 0.07%, 1.08 million ounces (Moz) palladium at 1.38gpt and 0.18Moz platinum at 0.23gpt; Inferred Mineral Resources of 47.2 million tonnes containing 947Mlb copper at 0.91%, 551.5Mlb nickel at 0.53%, 62.4Mlb cobalt at 0.06%, 2.12Moz palladium at 1.4gpt and 0.38Moz platinum at 0.25gpt. The resource model indicates significant potential for resource expansion along strike and at depth over the 15 km long mineralized belt. (Refer to Independent Technical Report, Updated Mineral Resource Estimate, Ferguson Lake Project, Nunavut, Canada, Prepared by Ronacher McKenzie Geoscience Inc. and Francis Minerals Ltd filed by the Company to Sedar.com on July 13, 2022). In addition, the Company has identified the pegmatites with lithium potential at the Ferguson Lake project.

Dr. Kaihui Yang, President and CEO

Phone: 905-696-8288 (Canada) 1-888-688-8809 (Toll-Free)

Email: [email protected]

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this news release, including statements which may contain words such as expects, anticipates, intends, plans, believes, estimates, or similar expressions, and statements related to matters which are not historical facts, are forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements, which reflect managements expectations regarding the Companys future growth, results of operations, performance, business prospects and opportunities, are based on certain factors and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the Companys forward-looking statements. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements contained in this news release and the documents incorporated by reference herein are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. In addition, although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any future revisions to forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this news or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as expressly required by law.

Source: Canadian North Resources Inc.
UAE,Dubai, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CoinW, the world's leading cryptocurrency exchange, is gearing up to celebrate its 6th anniversary in the upcoming weeks, coinciding with the achievements amassed during a significant year of global expansion. The past year has seen this 6-year-old exchange navigate towards crypto excellence through Commitment, Opportunity, Innovation, Navigability, and Worldwide connectivity, shaping today's CoinW.

Commitment- Dedication to user success and platform security.

Dedicated to user success and platform security, CoinW has achieved significant milestones in security and compliance this year.. In June, it received initial approval from Dubais Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, expanding its footprint in the MENA region. In October, a substantial upgrade to its wallet security system integrated the advanced Multi-Party Computation Wallet (MPC Wallet). One month later, CoinW forged a strategic partnership with leading blockchain data service OKLink to set a new standard of crypto security, integrating Know Your Address (KYA) into CoinW's platform. This integration complements the existing Know Your Transaction (KYT) system, aiming to solidify CoinW's position as one of the most secure crypto exchanges, with zero security incidents reported throughout the year.

Opportunity: Access to a wide range of crypto assets and growth potential.

Recognizing the challenge of identifying nascent crypto projects, CoinW introduced its Launchpad platform, providing access to a wide range of crypto assets and growth potential. CoinW's Launchpad platform serves as a pivotal gateway, opening doors for both retail and institutional investors to access carefully curated projects and actively contribute to the thriving crypto ecosystem.

Innovation: Pioneering new features and staying ahead in the crypto curve.

The platform has seamlessly adopted a hybrid method, ingeniously combining the security, liquidity, and accessibility of centralized platforms with the transparency and autonomy characteristic of DeFi. This unique approach ensures that users benefit not only from the platforms robust security measures but also gain visibility and control over asset management. CoinW's commitment to innovation has been duly recognized, with the platform receiving prestigious accolades, including the titles of Most Trusted Cryptocurrency Exchange and Best Label Provider at the Wiki Finance Expo Sydney in November, underscoring its leading position in the dynamic crypto landscape.

Navigability: User-friendly interface and resources for both novices and experts.

Boasting a user-friendly interface and catering to both novices and experts, CoinW fulfills its commitment to lower thresholds for novice traders with limited portfolios. Introducing innovative products such as Mega Coupon and the educational hub, CoinW Academy, CoinW addresses a wide spectrum of customer requirements, enhancing accessibility and providing educational support for crypto enthusiasts.

Worldwide: A global reach, connecting crypto enthusiasts from every corner of the world.

Symbolized by the "W" in CoinW's name, the platform's global reach connects crypto enthusiasts from every corner of the world. Celebrating its 6th anniversary, CoinW has achieved a significant milestone of surpassing 10 million users, registering a remarkable 20% user growth during the first half of the year, even in the midst of the crypto winter.

6: $1,000,000 Rewards in 6 Grand Prizes for 6 Anniversary Celebration

To mark this momentous occasion, a month-long online campaign with six grand prizes totaling $1,000,000 is set to unfold on 4th December. These prizes include a 100,000 USDT new user welcome package, a 700,000 USDT trading competition, a 100,000 USDT 100%-win mystery box, a 100,000 USDT limited-time copy trading rewards, exclusive live streams, and an offline party.

The six grand prizes are designed not only to reward seasoned traders but also to offer novice traders an ideal opportunity to initiate their trading journey, with their very first investment supported by CoinW. Additionally, the first 2,000 participants who register for the trading competition during the Early Bird Period will receive an additional bonus.

Early Bird Period: 04/12/2023 16:00  11/12/2024 15:59 (UTC)

Start Your Journey with 10M Users



The celebration goes beyond incentivizing trading; it's about harnessing the power of digital assets to transform lives globally while also reaping significant profits through asset management. As CoinW navigates the crypto landscape, the path forward lies not in the privilege of the few but in mass adoption. Together with CoinWs new legendary Brand Ambassador, Andrea Pirlo, the platform welcomes new community members through top-notch security, innovative features, extensive educational programs, and generous funding.

By daring to broaden our vision towards crypto excellence and connecting crypto enthusiasts from every corner of the world, CoinW aims for shared success.
Aurora, Colo., Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Colorado State University Global (CSU Global)the CSU Systems fully online campusand Douglas County School District (DCSD) are proud to announce a new partnership to provide enhanced career opportunities to educators. This collaboration strengthens professional pathways for educators in the district and underscores CSU Global's commitment to its mission of facilitating workplace success and its ongoing work to support K-12 school districts throughout Colorado.

Through the partnership, two vital cohorts will be established by DCSD. A total of 18 educators will receive funding for teacher upskilling, and 14 educators will be nominated by their schools for Principal Licensure. These programs are designed to prepare educators for leadership and administrative roles within the District. In addition, the District and all DCSD employees will receive a discounted tuition rate on all CSU Global programs.

"We are thrilled to partner with Douglas County School District to offer our programs to their educators. Educators are critical to the strength and ongoing success of our communities, and it is important they receive opportunities to professionally develop and upskill in their areas of interest, said Dr. Becky Takeda-Tinker, President of CSU Global. By investing in educators professional development, we are supporting their individual growth, while also contributing to the overall excellence of education in Douglas County and Colorado."

The Teacher Upskilling for Dual/Concurrent Enrollment program will provide selected educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach dual/concurrent enrollment courses. When educators are credentialed to teach the courses, through earning graduate credits in various subject areas, they can provide opportunities for collegiate credit-bearing courses that District students take in their home high schools to secure a head start in their higher education journeys.

In addition, the Principal Licensure program supports educators who aspire to take on leadership roles by providing them with the necessary training accessible from anywhere, as they work towards licensure. Aspiring principals will gain the education, training, and experience needed for Principal Licensure to lead schools effectively. Moreover, the credits earned in both of the partnership programs can also be applied toward a CSU Global Master's Degree in Teaching and Learning.

DCSD is incredibly excited about this amazing partnership with CSU Global, as it will provide our dedicated staff an opportunity for continued growth for themselves with a direct benefit for our students, said Dan McMinimee, DCSD Executive Director for Pathways, Choice and Alternative Education. Our concurrent enrollment program in DCSD is far and away the best program in the State of Colorado. This partnership will ensure us a continuing pipeline of highly trained staff.

For information on the Teacher Upskilling for Dual/Concurrent Enrollment program and/or the Principal Licensure program for DCSD employees, please contact Dan McMinimee at [email protected] or call (303) 387-7921.

With its fully online, asynchronous course and program structure, CSU Global has a highly-ranked and long-standing commitment to providing accessible, flexible programs and 24/7 online support and resources for students, allowing learners to complete coursework around their busy schedules.

CSU Global and DCSD are excited to embark on this collaborative journey to support educators in the District. For organizations interested in partnering with CSU Global to provide upskilling opportunities for employees, please contact [email protected].

###

About Colorado State University Global

Colorado State University Global (CSU Global) offers career-relevant bachelors and masters degree programs for working adults and nontraditional learners. As the first and only 100% online, institutionally accredited public university in the United States, CSU Global is focused on student success as its number one priority. Embracing the land grant heritage as part of the Colorado State University System, CSU Global sets the standard for quality and innovation in higher education through its expert faculty who are recognized as industry leaders and trained in working with adults in an online learning environment. CSU Global offers accelerated eight-week courses that start every four weeks. Visit CSUGlobal.edu to learn more.

About Douglas County School District

Douglas County School District is Colorados third largest school district and serves 63,000 students. Learn more at www.dcsdk12.org.

Jenna Tarleton Colorado State University Global [email protected]

Source: Colorado State University Global
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 05, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EnWave Corporation (TSX-V:ENW | FSE: E4U) (EnWave, or the "Company") announced today that the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV) has provided conditional acceptance of the Companys normal course issuer bid, subject to the Company meeting all of the requirements of the TSXV.

Under the terms of the normal course issuer bid, EnWave may acquire up to 10,799,564 common shares, representing 10% of the public float of EnWave as of December 5, 2023. The Company is conducting the NCIB in order to maintain flexibility to purchase the common shares, if, among other things, the Company determines that it is an appropriate use of corporate funds based on the market price of the common shares from time to time.

As of December 5, 2023, the Company had 110,695,055 common shares outstanding. Under the TSXV policies, EnWave is entitled to purchase up to 2,213,901 shares in any 30-day period up to the maximum of 10,799,564.

The purchases may commence on December 7, 2023 and will end on December 6, 2024 or on such earlier date as EnWave may complete its purchases pursuant to the notice of intention to make a normal course issuer bid filed with the TSXV. The actual number of common shares which will be purchased and the timing of any such purchases will be determined by the Company. All shares purchased by the Company will be on the open market through the facilities of TSXV by Cormark Securities Inc. acting on behalf of EnWave in accordance with the policies of the TSXV and will be surrendered by the Company to its transfer agent for cancellation. The prices that EnWave will pay for any of the common shares purchased will be the market price of the shares at the time of acquisition.

EnWave did not purchase or cancel any common shares under the previous normal course issuer bid that commenced on November 22, 2022 and expired on November 23, 2023.

About EnWave EnWave is a global leader in the innovation and application of vacuum microwave dehydration. From its headquarters in Delta, BC, EnWave has developed a robust intellectual property portfolio, perfected its Radiant Energy Vacuum (REV) technology, and transformed an innovative idea into a proven, consistent, and scalable drying solution for the food, pharmaceutical and cannabis industries that vastly outperforms traditional drying methods in efficiency, capacity, product quality, and cost.

With more than fifty royalty-generating partners spanning twenty-six countries and five continents, EnWaves licensed partners are creating profitable, never-before-seen snacks and ingredients, improving the quality and consistency of their existing offerings, running leaner and getting to market faster with the companys patented technology, licensed machinery, and expert guidance.

EnWaves strategy is to sign royalty-bearing commercial licenses with food producers who want to dry better, faster and more economical than freeze drying, rack drying and air drying, and enjoy the following benefits of producing exciting new products, reaching optimal moisture levels up to seven times faster, and improve product taste, texture, color and nutritional value.

Learn more at EnWave.net.

EnWave Corporation

Mr. Brent Charleton, CFAPresident and CEO

For further information:

Brent Charleton, CFA, President and CEO at +1 (778) 378-9616E-mail: [email protected]

Dylan Murray, CFO at +1 (778) 870-0729E-mail: [email protected]

Safe Harbour for Forward-Looking Information Statements: This press release may contain forward-looking information based on management's expectations, estimates and projections. All statements that address expectations or projections about the future, including statements about the Company's strategy for growth, product development, market position, expected expenditures, and the expected synergies following the closing are forward-looking statements. All third-party claims referred to in this release are not guaranteed to be accurate. All third-party references to market information in this release are not guaranteed to be accurate as the Company did not conduct the original primary research. These statements are not a guarantee of future performance and involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

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: EnWave Corporation
ABU DHABI, UAE, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On December 5th, in Dubai, UAE, the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) marked its Energy Day with a thematic event titled "Global Energy Interconnection: Advancing Inclusive, Just, and Resilient Energy Transition." The event was a collaborative effort by Global Energy Interconnection Development and Cooperation Organization (GEIDCO), together with the Secretariat of UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UNESCWA), UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UNSDSN), the Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the P.R.C., the Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy (MOEE) of Egypt, and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

This gathering, focused on promoting global carbon neutrality, aimed to seek insights and solutions for an inclusive, just, and resilient energy transition through Global Energy Interconnection (GEI), and to further pool collective wisdom and strength to advance global energy transition and address climate change. Mr. Xin Baoan, Chairman of GEIDCO and Executive Chairman of State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC), attended the event and delivered a welcome speech.

H.E. Mr. Xie Zhenhua, Chinese Special Envoy for Climate Change, H.E. Mr. Liu Zhenmin, Former UN Under-Secretary-General & Former Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs of China, H.E. Mr. Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs (via video address), H.E. Ms. Rola Dashti, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the UNESCWA, H.E. Mr. Xu Haoliang, UN Under-Secretary-General and Associate Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) (online), H.E. Dr. Ahmed Mohamed Mahina, First Undersecretary for Research, Planning & Authorities follow up of Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy of Egypt, and Dr. Elena Manaenkova, Deputy Secretary-General of WMO, attended the event and delivered keynote speeches.

H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Matola, Minister of Energy of Malawi, H.E. Ms. Tatiana Molcean, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), H.E. Mr. Jorge Moreira da Silva, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), H.E. Ms. Sanda Ojiambo, UN Assistant Secretary-General and CEO & Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, attended the high-level dialogue and shared their views and insights. The side event was concluded by Mr. Daniele Violetti, Senior Director of the Programmes Coordination, the UNFCCC Secretariat. The thematic event features a research report release by GEIDCO entitled Inclusive, Just, Resilient Energy Transition: GEI Solution and Practices, and practical case sharing by SGCC on the development of new power systems.

Mr. Xin Baoan stressed that climate issue is a major challenge constraining the sustainable development of mankind. Accelerating green and low-carbon energy transition and mitigating climate change have become a global consensus and common action. Energy development is facing many challenges, such as huge pressure for energy supply and security, tough tasks in transforming traditional industries, and unbalanced regional development. To advance high-quality energy transition, we need to take a systematic approach and focus on the correlations between security and transition, development and emission reduction, and stocks and increments.

Mr. Xin said that GEI is characterized by clean energy dominance, extensive electrification, interconnection, multi-energy mutual support, high intelligence and efficiency. As an integral part of the new energy system, it is essential for large-scale development, wide-area allocation, efficient utilization, flexible conversion and reliable supply of clean energy. It will promote clean energy production, further electrification in energy consumption, wide-area energy allocation, and energy industry digitalization. GEI can also effectively balance three pairs of relationships: security and transition, development and emission reduction, and stocks and increments, providing a Chinese solution for advancing energy transition and carbon emission reduction with higher quality and efficiency. First, it promotes inclusive transition. By actively promoting clean upgrading and energy conservation in fossil fuel facilities, we aim to transition fossil fuels from being the primary source of energy to a supporting role. This shift will enhance the flexible and adjustable capacity of power systems, and support exponential growth of new energy sources. Second, it promotes just transition. Wide-area energy interconnections will allow resource sharing and supply-demand matchmaking across vast regions. It will effectively reduce the cost of energy consumption, with the cost of power supply dropping by about 20% compared with the current level, so that everyone can enjoy affordable and sustainable clean energy, and the people of all countries can benefit from the fruits of transition. Third, it promotes resilient transition. The convergence of modern digital, energy and power technologies and their continued innovation will support the coordinated operation of power source, grid, load and storage. It will enhance the flexibility and sufficiency of energy systems, strengthen the resilience and reliability of power infrastructure, and better adapt to the impact of climate change and extreme weathers.

Xie Zhenhua said that energy transition needs both to ensure renewable energy development and energy security. The ultimate goal is to transition from fossil energy to renewable energy as the predominant source in the energy and power mix. The scheme and solution proposed by GEIDCO are viable and scientific.

Liu Zhenmin highlighted that in recent years, GEIDCO has undertaken substantial efforts in advancing global energy transition and addressing climate change, yielding fruitful outcomes, including the release of key research findings. He expressed confidence that this event would actively contribute to fostering collaborative governance of global energy, climate and environment, further leveraging collective wisdom and strength.

Li Junhua remarked that, energy is pivotal in achieving both the 2030 Agenda and the objectives of the Paris Agreement. It is time for transformation. Interconnection of global energy infrastructure can significantly contribute to this by accelerating the development of clean energy in countries worldwide, while reducing the costs of energy services.

Rola Dashti said we stand at a critical juncture in our shared journey towards advancing SDG targets and a just and inclusive energy transition. UNESCWAs integrated approach embraces technological solutions available in our region, and tailors Sustainable Energy Transition Strategies for LDCs and conflict-affected countries with a focus on social equity.

Mr. Xu Haoliang said that the UNDP is taking action with its partners to place renewable energy development at the forefront of its efforts to ensure affordable, sustainable, and reliable energy around the world by accelerating market development, policy advice, and technological capacity enhancement.

Dr. Ahmed Mohamed Mohina emphasized the Egyptian government's strong recognition and support for the Global Energy Interconnection Initiative, acknowledging its profound importance for global energy transition and climate governance. He underscored that the initiative offers practical solutions for African and Arab countries to promote energy transition, accelerate economic development and improve ecological environment.

Dr. Elena Manaenkova highlighted the strong link between climate change and energy, stressing the World Meteorological Organization's (WMO) commitment to helping governments and businesses to decarbonize while improve energy efficiency and enhance the resilience, flexibility and diversity of the energy transition.

At the event, Dr. Wu Xuan, Secretary General of GEIDCO, released GEIDCOs latest research report entitled Inclusive, Just, Resilient Energy Transition: GEI Solution and Practices. Using the assessment model developed by GEIDCO, this report provides a holistic scheme for inclusive, just and resilient energy transition based on GEI. Through better interconnected energy systems, this report suggests advancing the "three transitions" of energy through "three coordinations", that is, advancing inclusive, just and resilient energy transition through coordination between clean energy and fossil fuels, energy and industry, and energy and meteorology. The aim is to build a safe, cost-effective, intelligent, green and open modern energy system, and achieve UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The event is broadcast live on the website of the UNFCCC Secretariat and YouTube. It is co-chaired by Prof. Cheng Zhiqiang, Executive Secretary for Cooperation of GEIDCO, and Prof. Jeffery D. Sachs, President of UN SDSN. It has attracted more than 70 guests from relevant UN agencies, regional and international organizations in energy fields, governments of China, Egypt, South Africa and other countries, as well as energy and power enterprises.

Since its inception, GEIDCO has participated in the UN Climate Change Conference for many consecutive times, held several thematic events, and released multiple research results. GEI plans are also included in the Sixth Assessment Report of the IPCC. All these efforts contribute to the coordinated governance of energy, climate and environment.

During COP28, GEIDCO and WMO also held a thematic event with the theme of "Energy Transition and Clean Energy Development". Industry experts and scholars shared the latest technologies and discussed policy frameworks to provide new solutions for clean energy development and utilization. Mr. Bi Baogui, Deputy Administrator of China Meteorological Administration, Prof. Pan Jiahua, Member of the Independent Group of Scientists for the UN's Global Sustainable Development Report for 2023 and Member of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Mr. Jaideep Sandhu, Member of the UN Council of Engineers for the Energy Transition, and Dr. Wu Xuan, Secretary General of GEIDCO, attended the event and delivered keynote speeches.

Media contact

Brand Name: GEIDCO

City, State, Country: Beijing China

Address: No.8 Xuanwumennei Ave., Xicheng Dist,, Beijing, P.R. China

Contact Person: Marketing Team

Email: [email protected]

Tele: 86-10-66598554

Website: https://www.geidco.org.cn/

SOURCE: GEIDCO

Source: GEIDCO
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. The attitude of the international community toward developments in the world is ambiguous, Chairman of Azerbaijan's Milli Majlis (Parliament) Committee on Natural Resources, Energy, and Ecology Sadig Gurbanov said, Trend reports.

He spoke at the International Baku Forum on "Healthy environment and a mine-free life to achieve sustainable development goals.".

"Azerbaijan contributes to worldwide environmental progress. Azerbaijan is currently working hard to employ cleaner energy resources. Various actions are undertaken to improve green spaces, and new forest belts are established," he said.

"As a matter of fact, Armenians have devastated 54 hectares of our forests and contaminated our lands with mines and explosive weapons," Gurbanov added.

Sadig Gurbanov concluded that the entire world discusses concerns such as global warming, environmental disasters, droughts, and water resource depletion, but they forget that mines are one of the elements driving the destruction of flora and wildlife, in addition to the loss of life.

The International Baku Forum on "Healthy Environment and Mine-Free Life to Achieve Sustainable Development Goals" is being organized by Azerbaijan's State Support Agency for Non-Governmental Organizations.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Microbix Biosystems Inc. (TSX: MBX, OTCQX: MBXBF, Microbix), a life sciences innovator, manufacturer, and exporter, announces the initiation of a Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB) program for the repurchase and cancellation of outstanding common shares.

Specifically, the NCIB enables Microbix to repurchase up to 6,827,518 Common Shares ("Shares"), that number being approximately five percent (5%) of the 136,550,374 Shares outstanding as at December 1, 2023. Repurchases will be made through the facilities of the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) over a 12-month period starting on December 8, 2023. The actual number of Shares which may be repurchased pursuant to the NCIB will be determined by management under applicable rules and policies.

The NCIB has been approved by Microbixs Board of Directors and will be conducted in accordance with the applicable rules and policies of the TSX and Canadian securities laws, including TSX approval of Microbixs notice of intention to conduct a NCIB. Under the NCIB, Shares may be repurchased in open market transactions on the TSX, or by such other means as may be permitted by the TSX and applicable Canadian securities laws. Microbix will pay the prevailing market price at the time of its Share repurchases.

Pursuant to TSX rules and policies, the maximum number of Shares that may be repurchased in one day via the NCIB will be 12,286, that being 25% of the average daily trading volume (ADTV) of the Shares on the TSX for the most recently completed six calendar months, subject to certain prescribed exceptions such as periodic block trades. The ADTV on the TSX for six calendar months ended November 30, 2023 is 49,145. Microbix conducted a prior NCIB for the 12-months from October 3, 2022 under which it sought and obtained approval to purchase up to 6,948,568 shares and under which it repurchased a total of 2,892,000 shares with a volume weighted average price of $0.385.

Microbix has entered into a pre-defined automatic securities purchase plan with its NCIB broker, PI Financial Corp., to allow for the repurchase of Shares at times when it ordinarily would not be active in the market due to Microbixs internal trading blackout periods, insider trading rules, or otherwise. Such plans will be conducted in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. Outside of such restricted periods, the timing of repurchases will be determined by Microbix management. Decisions regarding repurchases will be based on market conditions, Share price, best uses of available cash, and other factors. The funding for any repurchases pursuant to the NCIB will be financed from working capital and all Shares will be repurchased for cancellation. Microbix may also use its NCIB to acquire Shares pursuant to the exercise of stock options to offset the dilutive effect of options that have been exercised.

The Board of Directors believes Microbixs underlying value is not reflected in the current market price of its Shares. As a result, depending upon future price movements and other factors, the Board believes that the repurchase of Shares is an appropriate use of corporate funds and in the best interests of Microbix and its shareholders. Furthermore, the NCIB is expected to benefit persons who continue holding Shares by increasing their proportionate equity interest in Microbix as the repurchased Shares are cancelled.

A copy of Microbixs notice of the NCIB to the TSX may be obtained by any shareholder without charge, by contacting Jim Currie, the Company's Chief Financial Officer.

About Microbix Biosystems Inc.Microbix Biosystems Inc. creates proprietary biological products for human health, with over 100 skilled employees and annualized sales targeting C$ 2.0 million per month. It makes a wide range of critical ingredients and devices for the global diagnostics industry, notably antigens for immunoassays and its laboratory quality assessment products (QAPs) that support clinical lab proficiency testing, enable assay development and validation, or help ensure the quality of clinical diagnostic workflows. Its antigens drive the antibody tests of approximately 100 diagnostics makers, while QAPs are sold to clinical lab accreditation organizations, diagnostics companies, and clinical labs. Microbix QAPs are now available in over 30 countries, supported by a network of 10 international distributors. Microbix is ISO 9001 & 13485 accredited, U.S. FDA registered, Australian TGA registered, Health Canada establishment licensed, and provides CE marked products.

Microbix also applies its biological expertise and infrastructure to develop other proprietary products and technologies, most notably Kinlytic urokinase, a biologic thrombolytic drug used to treat blood clots, and viral transport medium (DxTM), to stabilize patient samples for lab-based molecular diagnostic testing. Microbix is traded on the TSX and OTCQX, and headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.

Forward-Looking InformationThis news release includes forward-looking information, as such term is defined in applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information includes, without limitation, discussion of the NCIB and its goals and processes, the TSX and related rules, regulations, or laws, Microbixs business and business results, goals or outlook, risks associated with financial results and stability, development projects such as those referenced in its corporate presentation, regulatory compliance and approvals, sales to foreign jurisdictions, engineering and construction, production (including control over costs, quality, quantity and timeliness of delivery), foreign currency and exchange rates, maintaining adequate working capital and raising further capital on acceptable terms or at all, and other similar statements concerning anticipated future events, conditions or results that are not historical facts. These statements reflect managements current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations; they are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward-looking information is inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Companys control. Accordingly, actual future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. All statements are made as of the date of this news release and represent the Companys judgement as of the date of this new release, and the Company is under no obligation to update or alter any forward-looking information.

Please visit www.microbix.com or https://www.sedarplus.ca for recent Microbix news and filings.

For further information, please contact Microbix at:

Cameron Groome,CEO(905) 361-8910 Jim Currie, CFO(905) 361-8910 Deborah Honig, Investor RelationsAdelaide Capital Markets(647) 203-8793 [email protected]

Copyright  2023 Microbix Biosystems Inc. Microbix, DxTM, Kinlytic, and QAPs are trademarks of Microbix Biosystems Inc.

Source: Microbix Biosystems Inc.
Austin, Texas, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Momcozy , a global leader in providing comfort to mothers through innovative maternity and baby products, recently collaborated with the Austin--based Mini Market, founded by Cristina Bocanegra for its holiday shopping extravaganza held on December 3 in Austin, Texas. Founded by Bocanegra in 2018, the Mini Market is in its 12th year and has become a staple in the Austin community, bringing together 50 women and/or mom-owned vendors to create a festive and family-friendly shopping experience for nearly 1,000 families each year.





Bocanegra, a proud resident of Austin, Texas, is the visionary behind the Mini Market. After facing challenges in supporting local shops as a mother of two, she founded Mini Market aiming to make shopping convenient for families by bringing a curated selection of women and mom-owned businesses directly to them.

"I'm passionate about supporting small businesses, especially women and mother-owned businesses, she shares. Mini Market not only hopes to support those businesses but also make shopping local convenient for families.

Additionally, Mini Market was founded on the idea that motherhood and community go hand in hand. It's important to us to partner with brands that not only feel the same way, but show their dedication to empowering mothers through action. As a mother of two, I I knew and loved Momcozy because of their thoughtful product line but I really saw the magic when this partnership was born.





Momcozy not only participated in showcasing its range of comfort-driven products but went the extra mile by sponsoring the Cozy Lounge & Cozy Courtyard. The Cozy Lounge offered complimentary nursing/pumping, feeding, and diapering essentials and the Cozy Courtyard was complete along with delightful treats and hot cocoa, creating a haven for moms to relax and recharge amidst the holiday shopping frenzy.





Cristina Bocanegra expressed her excitement about partnering with Momcozy, stating, "Like everything at Momcozy, this collaboration was done with one thing in mind - how does this benefit and empower mothers? Here at Mini Market, our why has always been to support mothers, so there was no doubt this was a dream partnership come true!"

The partnership between Momcozy and Mini Market underscores Momcozy's commitment to ensuring that mothers feel supported, cared for, and cozy, especially during the hectic holiday season. By providing cozy spaces for mothers to tend to their needs, Momcozy worked to enhance the overall shopping experience for families attending the Mini Market while remaining true to its mission to ensure mothers worldwide can fee

About Momcozy:

Momcozy , founded in 2018, is a global leader in providing comfort to mothers through innovative products. With a range of wearable breast pumps, nursing bras, and other mom care essentials, Momcozy is dedicated to making moms' lives easier from pregnancy to early motherhood. Available in over 40 countries, Momcozy combines continuous product innovation with a commitment to cozy, comfortable designs.

About Mini Market

Founded by Cristina Bocanegra in 2018, Mini Market is a holiday extravaganza in Austin, Texas, featuring 50 women and/or mom-owned vendors. With a mission to make shopping local convenient for families, Mini Market has become a cherished tradition, supporting small businesses and creating a community of vendors and attendees who celebrate the spirit of motherhood and local entrepreneurship.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Anna Jiang, [email protected]






Milwaukee, WI., Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ivans today announced that Mylo, the insurtech leader whose Amplifi platform integrates into partner experiences to connect business owners and individuals with top-rated insurance solutions from multiple carriers, has signed an agreement to connect to the Ivans Distribution Platform. The partnership will enable Mylo to provide its clients with a comprehensive range of custom quotes via the carriers and MGAs in the Ivans network.

At Mylo, we leverage insurance intelligence to equip our customers with personalized coverage recommendations, said Belen Tokarski, Mylo President and Chief Operating Officer. Through connectivity with the Ivans Distribution Platform, we are then able to deliver competitive quotes that combine the best coverage and price.

Ivans Distribution Platform streamlines commercial submissions for the insurance industry. This single platform includes robust API support and an extensive network of distribution partners. The Ivans Distribution Platform provides carriers access to thousands of agents through one connection, empowering them to win more of the commercial business they want, no matter the size.

By leveraging the Ivans Distribution platform, Mylo can focus on what is most important to them  recommending the right coverage to every customer  while we provide quotes for the policies that will meet their needs, said Reid Holzworth, chief executive officer, Ivans. This partnership brings added value to our carrier customers as well, broadening their distribution into Mylos user base.

# # #

The Ivans logos are trademarks of Applied Systems, Inc., registered in the U.S.About IvansIvans is where insurance carriers, agents, and MGAs come together to grow their businesses. Every day, our 38,000 agents and over 600 carrier partners plug into technology that empowers them to better determine appetite and eligibility, swiftly produce quotes, get accurate claims and commission updates, automatically communicate policy data, and connect to one another to drive new business. With easier ways to get the days work done, insurance professionals can open the door to more revenue without letting complexity in behind it.

About Mylo

Mylo is amplifying insurance solutions to protect what matters. Through its patented Mind of Mylo recommendation engine, the insurtech leader connects individuals and business owners with top-rated insurance products from 100+ carriers, across business, auto, home, small group benefits, life and individual health. A growing ecosystem of 60+ channel partners and agencies embed Mylo's Amplifi insurance intelligence platform. Mylo is headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, and backed by Group 1001, the global investor with a powerful commitment to technology-driven insurance transformation. Mylo has been honored by Fintech Global's InsurTech100, Benzinga's Global Fintech Awards, Forbes' America's Best Startup Employers and more. For more information, go to www.ChooseMylo.com.

Lauren Malcolm Ivans (678) 438-5093 [email protected]

Source: Ivans
Dallas, TX, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Dallas Theater Center (DTC) and North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) are partnering again this holiday season to help provide nutritious food for those facing hunger in North Texas, with its annual fund and food drive in conjunction with the DTCs hit production of A Christmas Carol. The show runs November 30  December 30 at the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre located at 2400 Flora Street in Dallas. DTC will provide a location in the Wyly lobby for patrons to donate canned goods to NTFB and members of the cast will also collect monetary donations after every performance.

Just as Bob Cratchit struggles to provide a holiday meal for his family in A Christmas Carol, our neighbors in every zip code are facing increasingly difficult choices every day  deciding whether to purchase groceries or pay for other necessities such as gas, medicine or utilities. Thats a decision no one should have to make, said Erica Yaeger, Chief External Affairs Officer for the North Texas Food Bank. The North Texas Food Bank is grateful for the ongoing partnership with the Dallas Theater Center and its patrons in supporting neighbors across North Texas through donations of food and funds. We could not do what we do in the fight against hunger without the support of our community.

Since 2007, the Dallas Theater Center has donated nearly $895,000 to the Food Bank, helping provide meals to the more than 640,000 people facing hunger in North Texas. This holiday season, every dollar donated will provide three meals.

Dallas Theater Center is proud to support the great work that the North Texas Food Bank does in our community, said Kevin Moriarty, Executive Director of Dallas Theater Center. During the run of the show, nearly 4,000 students and more than 10,000 adults and children will experience this joyful production and have the opportunity to support the vital work that NTFB does for our community. A Christmas Carol is not only a heartwarming story of love and compassion, but also an inspiration for audiences to help those in need. For the last 16 years, DTC's audience members have generously donated and provided access to 2.7 million nutritious meals. We are honored to continue our partnership with NTFB to be a small part in making a big difference in our community.

Adapted by Moriarty, Charles Dickenss classic tale follows Ebenezer Scrooges fantastic journey through Christmases past, present and future. Brimming with joyful songs, magical spirits, and holiday cheer, this holiday classic embodies a story of joy, redemption, and the spirit of Christmas. A Christmas Carol begins on November 30 and runs through December 30. Tickets are on sale now at https://dallastheatercenter.org/ and by phone at (214) 522- 8499.

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Dallas Theater Center:One of the leading regional theaters in the country and the 2017 Regional Theatre Tony Award Recipient, Dallas Theater Center (DTC) performs to an audience of more than 100,000 North Texas residents annually. Founded in 1959, DTC is now a resident company of the AT&T Performing Arts Center and presents its Mainstage season at the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre, designed by REX/OMA, Joshua Prince-Ramus and Rem Koolhaas and at its original home, the Kalita Humphreys Theater, the only freestanding theater designed and built by Frank Lloyd Wright. Dallas Theater Center is one of only two theaters in Texas that is a member of the League of Resident Theatres, the largest and most prestigious non-profit professional theater association in the country. Under the leadership of Enloe/Rose Artistic Director Kevin Moriarty and Managing Director Jeffrey Woodward, Dallas Theater Center produces a year-round subscription series of classics, musicals, and new plays and an annual production of A Christmas Carol; extensive education programs, including the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award-winning Project Discovery, a partnership with Southern Methodist Universitys Meadows School of the Arts; and many community collaborations. In 2017, in collaboration with Ignite/Arts Dallas at SMU Meadows School of the Arts and the AT&T Performing Arts Center, DTC launched Public Works Dallas, a groundbreaking community engagement and participatory theater project designed to deliberately blur the line between professional artists and community members, culminating in an annual production featuring more than 200 Dallas citizens performing a large-scale theatrical production. Throughout its history, Dallas Theater Center has produced many new works, including The Texas Trilogy by Preston Jones in 1978; Robert Penn Warrens All the Kings Men, adapted by Adrian Hall, in 1986; and recent premieres of Miller, Mississippi by Boo Killebrew; Stagger Lee by Will Power; Hood: The Robin Hood Musical Adventure by Douglas Carter Beane and Lewis Flinn; Bella: An American Tall Tale by Kirsten Childs; penny candy by Jonathan Norton; Clarkston by Samuel D. Hunter and Moonshine: That Hee Haw Musical by Robert Horn, Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally. Dallas Theater Center gratefully acknowledges the support of our season sponsors: Texas Instruments and Texas Instruments Foundation, The Shubert Foundation, City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture, Lexus, TACA, and Texas Commission on the Arts. Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: At Dallas Theater Center, all are welcome. We want to be the best place to work and see theater, and to be a positive and transformational force in Dallas and beyond. We stand-up for equity, diversity, and inclusion across our company and community. As a leading national theater, we recognize that building an equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment is central to our relevance and sustainability in the community we serve and love.

About the North Texas Food BankThe North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) is a top-ranked non-profit hunger-relief organization that sources, packages and distributes food through a network of nearly 500 Partner Agencies and organizations across 13 North Texas counties. The organization also provides food to children, seniors and families through various direct-delivery programs, including mobile pantries.

In its last fiscal year, the NTFB provided access to more than 144 million nutritious meals or nearly 400,000 meals a day, a 5% percent increase over the prior year. The North Texas Food Bank is designated a 4-Star Exceptional organization by Charity Navigator based on its governance, integrity and financial stability, and is ranked 87th on Forbes 2022 Top 100 Charities in America. NTFB is a member of Feeding America, the nations largest hunger-relief organization.

The North Texas Food Bank is designated a 4-Star Exceptional organization by Charity Navigator based on its governance, integrity and financial stability. NTFB is a member of Feeding America, the nations largest hunger-relief organization.

Jeff Smith North Texas Food Bank 469-891-7022 [email protected]

Source: North Texas Food Bank
TORONTO, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- O2Gold Inc. (NEX: OTGO.H) (O2Gold or the Company) today announced that Scott Moore has been appointed as the President, Chief Executive Officer and as a director of the Company, effective immediately.

Mr. Moore is a business executive with over 25 years of experience in the resource and durable goods sectors. He is the former CEO of Euro Sun Mining Inc., President and CEO of Dacha Strategic Metals, and Executive Vice President of Sulliden Mining Capital Inc. Mr. Moore holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Toronto and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management.

The appointment of Mr. Moore follows Fred Leighs resignation as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Neil Saids resignation as a director of the Company. The board and management of the Company express their gratitude to Messrs. Leigh and Said for their efforts and contributions and wish them well in their future endeavours.

About O2Gold Resources

O2Gold is a mineral exploration company.

For additional information, please contact:

Aaron Atin, Corporate SecretaryPhone: (416) 861-5888Email: [email protected]

NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

Source: O2Gold Inc.
Toronto, Ont., Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, a consortium of partners representing Canadas agriculture and agrifood sectors are announcing a project to develop artificial intelligence technology to address some of the biggest issues faced by Canadas lentil growers. With support from Protein Industries Canada, partners Ukko Agro, Hawks Agro and Three Farmers will work together to build out an in-field platform to predict and control anthracnose and Ascochyta blight.

This project demonstrates how Protein Industries Canada is working with partners to leverage AI solutions to transform crop cultivation and strengthen Canadas global leadership in innovative, data-driven agriculture, said the Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. Projects like these show how innovation and AI can address challenges across sectors while supporting a strong economy, build resilient supply chains and promote sustainability.

By utilizing AI to address the main diseases of concern in lentil crops, the partners will be able to help farmers and agronomists make improved crop management decisions. This can lower input costs, improve disease management and preserve yield potential, all of which help secure Canadas supply chain for ingredient processors and food manufacturers.

Consistency of crop and ingredient quality is a key element of strengthening Canadas domestic food supply chain. Collaboration across the ecosystem is the best way to establish and maintain this consistency in a sustainable manner, Protein Industries Canada CEO Bill Greuel said. Together, our project partners are meeting this need, while also addressing major disease concerns for some of Canadas most widely grown high protein crops. And with the technologys potential to be expanded to other plant-protein crops in the future, this is a clear demonstration of how one successful cluster project can benefit the full value chain and ecosystem..

The partners will utilize and build on Ukko Agros ForeSite platform to develop and commercialize their AI technology. Once available to farmers, agronomists and retailers, the technology will help improve the sustainability of the sector, increase yields and strengthen the ingredient supply chain.

We are extremely excited to be a part of this consortium with Hawks Agro, Three Farmers and Protein Industries Canada. Our goal at Ukko Agro is to combine data science with plant science that helps value-chain partners and farmers make more data-informed decisions on application of crop inputs, Ukko Agro Founder Ketan Kaushish said. Once commercialized, this project will enable value-chain members to proactively engage with their growers in order to help them grow a better crop, a key to maintaining the Prairies leadership position in the pulses market.

We are looking forward to being a part of this project. Having predictive modelling we can use with our growers to help make agronomic decisions is a big step forward in improving efficiencies and effectiveness of costly spray applications, Hawks Agro Director of Business Development Dallas Funke said.

We are extremely excited to be a part of this consortium with Ukko Agro, Hawks Agro and Protein Industries Canada, Three Farmers Founder and CEO Natasha Vandenhurk said. Our goal at Three Farmers is to continue to innovate and grow healthy snacking in Canada, specifically with beans and legumes grown right here on the Prairies. This project is another step in achieving that goal.

A total of $2.6 million has been committed to the project, with Protein Industries Canada investing $1.2 million and the partners together investing the remainder. Protein Industries Canadas artificial intelligence stream is funded as part of the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, through which the Government of Canada is investing in efforts to drive the adoption of artificial intelligence across Canada's economy and society.

Throughout its first tranche of funding, Protein Industries Canada and its industry partners invested more than $460 million into growing Canadas plant-based food, feed and ingredient sector through 55 technology and capacity building projects. The organizations artificial intelligence stream is expected to complement these projects by helping companies across the ecosystem incorporate AI and ML technology into their work, optimizing their processes and making them more sustainable while improving the functionality, taste and nutrition profiles of Canadas plant-based food, feed and ingredients.

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About Ukko Agro

Ukko Agro is a leading-edge ag-tech enterprise, dedicated to bringing adaptive, integrated and actionable insights from digitized acres to ag retailers and their grower customers across North America. Their proprietary Field Adaptive and Integrated Modelling (F.A.I.M) platform -- ForeSite -- delivers field-specific staging information up to 14 days in advance, suggesting where and when to apply high-value insecticides and fungicides. ForeSite uses sophisticated digital data gathering and input technology, proprietary algorithms and modeling to mitigate risk and help farmers get the highest possible returns from their input investments.

About Hawks Agro

Hawks Agro, a JGL Company, knows a strong business is built on friendly, trustworthy service and loyal, long-term relationships. These values remain at the core of who they are today, so they strive to nourish and grow their relationships with their customers, employees and communities. Over the years, they have grown to include seven locations across Southern Saskatchewan to provide the products, services and expertise to keep you growing.

About Three Farmers

Three Farmers is a producer and provider of pulse and legume-based snacks across North America. Their mission is to connect with consumers by bringing sustainable and quality food products to the marketplace. They are committed to:

Producing healthy and wholesome food with natural, quality ingredients.

Ensuring products are responsibly and sustainably grown and made.

Inviting customers to trace the goodness of their products.

Supporting, celebrating and engaging with their communities and neighbours.

Miranda Burski Protein Industries Canada 306-581-1340 [email protected]

Source: Protein Industries Canada
NEW YORK, Dec. 05, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Li-Cycle Holdings Corp. (NYSE: LICY) between June 14, 2022 and October 23, 2023, both dates inclusive (the Class Period), of the important January 8, 2024 lead plaintiff deadline.



SO WHAT: If you purchased Li-Cycle securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Li-Cycle class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=20300 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than January 8, 2024. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs Bar. Many of the firms attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Li-Cycle's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (1) Li-Cycle's Rochester Hub was experiencing escalating construction costs; (2) these escalating construction costs exceeded the expected aggregate cost of the project; (3) as a result, Li-Cycle would be forced to temporarily halt construction and reevaluate the construction strategy for the Rochester Hub; and (4) as a result of the foregoing, defendants positive statements about Li-Cycle's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the Li-Cycle class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=20300 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investors ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

-------------------------------

Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.

Phillip Kim, Esq.

The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor

New York, NY 10016

Tel: (212) 686-1060

Toll Free: (866) 767-3653

Fax: (212) 202-3827

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

www.rosenlegal.com
NO-HEADQUARTERS | NEW YORK, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VAST Data, the AI data platform company, announced today that it has secured $118 million in Series E funding, led by Fidelity Management & Research Company and accompanied by New Enterprise Associates (NEA), BOND Capital and Drive Capital.

The funding will advance VAST Datas mission to deliver a new category of infrastructure that puts data at the center of how systems think, react, and discover. This breakthrough will empower organizations to effectively address their most pressing data challenges, enabling unprecedented advancements in technology, economics, social dynamics, and scientific research.

The VAST Data Platform unifies storage, database, and containerized compute engine services into a single, scalable software platform architected from the ground up to power AI and GPU-accelerated tools in modern data centers and clouds. The platform uniquely enables organizations to understand all data, both structured and unstructured as it exists in the natural world, to generate superior insights and unlock new value.

A new AI data stack is required, said Renen Hallak, CEO and Co-Founder of VAST Data. To be truly impactful in this era of AI and deep learning, you not only want to have a lot of data, but also high quality data that is correctly organized and available at the right place, at the right time. The VAST Data Platform delivers AI infrastructure that opens the door to automated discovery that can solve some of humanitys most complex challenges.

We believe that VAST Data is a pioneer in the AI GPU space, said Scott Sandell, Chairman, CEO and CIO at NEA. With deep learning at the center of the massive AI movement we are experiencing, interest and investment in VAST Data has escalated, and we are thrilled to partner with the VAST Data team as they drive influence and innovation in the global AI technology sector.

The funding follows a pivotal 2023 calendar year, marked by:

Impressive Business Momentum: At the end of FYQ3, VAST Data surpassed $1 billion in cumulative software bookings. The company achieved 3.3x year-over-year (YoY) growth and maintained positive cash flow for the last 12 quarters with a gross margin of nearly 90%.

At the end of FYQ3, VAST Data surpassed $1 billion in cumulative software bookings. The company achieved 3.3x year-over-year (YoY) growth and maintained positive cash flow for the last 12 quarters with a gross margin of nearly 90%. Organizations Across All Industries Trust VAST Data: VAST Data has amassed a growing customer roster of global enterprises including Booking Holdings, Inc., U.S. Air Force, U.S. Department of Energy, Verizon, Boston Childrens Hospital, Pixar, and Zoom, among others, signaling strong market validation.

VAST Data has amassed a growing customer roster of global enterprises including Booking Holdings, Inc., U.S. Air Force, U.S. Department of Energy, Verizon, Boston Childrens Hospital, Pixar, and Zoom, among others, signaling strong market validation. Reimagining AI Cloud Infrastructure: Through innovative customer partnerships with companies like CoreWeave, Lambda and Core42 (formerly G42 Cloud), VAST Data is delivering the infrastructure that is purpose built for next-generation AI clouds.

Through innovative customer partnerships with companies like CoreWeave, Lambda and Core42 (formerly G42 Cloud), VAST Data is delivering the infrastructure that is purpose built for next-generation AI clouds. Deepened Commitment to Partners : Since its founding, VAST Data has worked closely with partners to break down technology tradeoffs and barriers while improving the overall customer experience. In May 2023, VAST Data furthered this mission with the VAST Data Platform achieving NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD certification, making large scale AI deployments simpler, faster, more reliable and easier to manage. In April 2023, VAST Data entered into a strategic partnership with HPE, helping enterprise customers manage unstructured data with high performance at scale to deliver superior time to data insight.

: Since its founding, VAST Data has worked closely with partners to break down technology tradeoffs and barriers while improving the overall customer experience. In May 2023, VAST Data furthered this mission with the VAST Data Platform achieving NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD certification, making large scale AI deployments simpler, faster, more reliable and easier to manage. In April 2023, VAST Data entered into a strategic partnership with HPE, helping enterprise customers manage unstructured data with high performance at scale to deliver superior time to data insight. Global Expansion: Now with more than 700 employees worldwide VAST Data is actively broadening its business footprint, penetrating new regions in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe.

Supporting Quotes

The VAST Data Platform's capacity to process large quantities of data at unparalleled scale and speed signifies a transformative shift in industry operations, underscoring the pivotal role of deep learning AI in shaping future advancements. This sentiment was shared by customers and partners across the industry, including:

Data is every companys most valuable asset, said Manuvir Das, vice president of Enterprise Computing at NVIDIA. NVIDIA and Vast Data are collaborating to enable enterprises to harness their data using accelerated computing and cloud-based AI solutions to tackle their biggest challenges.

"Some of the most data-intensive and computationally advanced customers on the planet trust CoreWeave, NVIDIA and VAST to deliver the most secure and scalable solutions on top of the industrys fastest and most flexible AI infrastructure," said Michael Intrator, CEO and co-founder of CoreWeave. "Were honored to partner with VAST to provide purpose-built accelerated computing solutions that solve the complex AI and data challenges that enterprises face now and into the future.

"Data is the only competitive advantage in AI and therefore infrastructure that can simplify and scale data access is crucial for any organization training AI models," said Sanjeev Mohan, Principal, SanjMo. "With a modern data platform fine-tuned for the performance and scale AI requires, VAST Data is well-positioned to capture a massive opportunity."

Additional Resources:

About VAST Data:VAST Data is the data platform company built for the AI era. As the new standard for enterprise AI infrastructure, organizations trust the VAST Data Platform to serve their most data-intensive computing needs. VAST Data empowers enterprises to unlock the full potential of their data by providing AI infrastructure that is simple, scalable, and architected from the ground up to power deep learning and GPU-accelerated data centers and clouds. Launched in 2019, VAST Data is the fastest growing data infrastructure company in history. For more information, please visit https://vastdata.com and follow VAST Data on X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn.

Media Contact:

Austin WeedfallVAST Data[email protected]

Source: VAST Data
MONTREAL, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WSP Global Inc. (TSX: WSP) (WSP or the Corporation) is pleased to announce that Mr. Claude Tessier has been appointed to its Board of Directors and as a member of its Audit Committee.

With his extensive senior management, financial, and operational experience, Mr. Tessier is a valuable addition to WSPs Board. He served as the Chief Financial Officer at Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc., a global leader in convenience and fuel retail, and supported the companys significant growth for seven years until he retired in 2023. Prior to that, he was the President of the IGA Operations Business Unit at Sobeys Inc., one of Canadas largest grocers, and held senior financial and operational leadership roles in several other renowned companies.

Mr. Tessier serves on the Boards of CCL Industries Inc. and the TMX Group Limited where he is also Chair of the Finance and Audit Committee and a member of the Derivatives Committee.

Commenting on the news, Mr. Christopher Cole, WSPs Chairman of the Board of Directors said, We are pleased to welcome Claude Tessier to our Board of Directors. His international experience and expertise in operations, finance, and business strategy will bring significant value to our Board and its Audit Committee. We look forward to his contributions as we support WSPs strategy and growth journey.

Mr. Tessier holds a Bachelor of Accounting degree from the Universite du Quebec a Montreal. He is a member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada.

ABOUT WSPAs one of the largest professional services firms in the world, WSP exists to future-proof our cities and our environment. It provides strategic advisory, engineering, and design services to clients seeking sustainable solutions in the transportation, infrastructure, environment, building, energy, water, and mining sectors. Its 67,000 trusted professionals are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long-lasting impacts on the communities it serves through a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. In 2022, WSP reported $11.9 B (CAD) in revenue. The Corporations shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: WSP).

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:Alain MichaudChief Financial OfficerWSP Global Inc.[email protected] Phone: 438-843-7317

Source: Groupe WSP Global Inc.
FILE PHOTO: The Citigroup Inc (Citi) logo is seen at the SIBOS banking and financial conference in Toronto, Ontario, Canada October 19, 2017. Picture taken October 19, 2017. REUTERS/Chris Helgren/File Photo

(This Dec. 6 story has been corrected after Citigroup clarified that the $1 billion figure does not relate only to the reorganization recently announced in paragraphs 1, 2, 3 and 6)

By Tatiana Bautzer and Niket Nishant

(Reuters) - Citigroup Chief Financial Officer Mark Mason said the company will book $1 billion in costs that include restructuring and severance this year.

The company's sweeping reorganization is expected to be fully completed by the end of the first quarter next year, Mason told the Goldman Sachs U.S. Financial Services Conference. The changes include slimming down management and potentially laying off thousands of employees.

The $1 billion includes $600 million of severance during the first three quarters of the year and the remainder in the fourth quarter, according to the company.

Simplifying the bank's structure will enable it to reduce annual expenses to $51 billion to $53 billion, he added, helping Citi to approach its profit targets.

The bank maintained its estimate for 2023 expenses at $54 billion, excluding a special assessment from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. of about $1.65 billion.

Restructuring charges of "a couple hundred million dollars associated with the org simplification" are expected in the fourth quarter, Mason said.

The bank aims to reach a medium-term return on average tangible common shareholders equity of 11% to 12% in the medium term after the reorganization. ROTCE is a measure of company performance.

Citi's full-year revenue in 2023 will probably come in at about $78 billion, the lower end of its previous forecast, Mason said.

Mason cited Argentina as a factor reducing Citi's revenue.

"The Argentina elections for example, that is going to put pressure on revenue for a couple of hundred million dollars," he said. "Thinking about the currency impact, that's the cost of us doing business there."

REORGANIZATION

Citi announced the latest phase of its sweeping reorganization last month, trimming leadership and moving executives within divisions. The bank is reducing management layers from 13 to eight as part of its biggest overhaul in decades.

CEO Jane Fraser aims to reduce bureaucracy and increase profits while boosting the company's stock, which lags its peers. "We need to change how we run Citi in order to truly transform it once and for all," Fraser told analysts on a third quarter earnings call in October.

The third-largest U.S. bank by assets beat estimates for third quarter profits, driven by rising trading revenue, investment banking fees and interest payments.

(Reporting by Tatiana Bautzer in New York and Niket Nishant in Bengaluru, editing by Lananh Nguyen, Chizu Nomiyama and Nick Zieminski)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. The UN is ready to support Azerbaijan in preventing early marriages, said UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan Vladanka Andreeva during her speech at the International Conference "Prevention of Domestic Violence: Opportunities and Prospects," Trend reports.

She noted that, currently, cases of domestic violence against women remain one of the most acute problems.

"Work is continuously being done to prevent incidences of violence against women. Initiatives are being launched in this direction. We hope to help our government partners build new legislation and proposed strategies by assisting them. Work is being done to prevent early child marriage and to empower women," she said.

"We are prepared to offer any assistance we can to alleviate the situation. I believe that by doing so, we will be able to create a safer and more equitable society for women and girls in Azerbaijan in the future," Andreeva added.

The International Conference "Prevention of Domestic Violence: Opportunities and Prospects" is being conducted in Baku with the support of the Azerbaijan Republic's State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs.

Participants at the event include Azerbaijan's Deputy Prime Minister Ali Ahmadov, government officials, the head of the UN Resident Coordinator's Office in Azerbaijan, the regional director of the UN Population Fund for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, the head of the Council of Europe's Gender Equality Department, a member of parliament and chair of the parliamentary committee on gender equality, and the chair of South Korea's family committee.

In addition, representatives from the Ministry of Justice and Health of the Schleswig-Holstein area in Germany, as well as experts from Belarus, the United Kingdom, and the United States, are attending the conference.

Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Christopher Hui and Chairman of the Newly Established Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy, billionaire entrepreneur Adrian Cheng, share their views.

Newly formed academy sits under the Financial Services Development Council (FSDC), sweetens deal and further strengthens Hong Kong ' s competitiveness as a leading global family office hub

One of Hong Kong Government's top agendas to support next-generation wealth owners and private wealth management advisors on building legacy

Flagship Summit: Hong Kong will host the second "Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit" themed "Growing with Certainty Amid Growing Uncertainty" in late March next year. It will be a flagship summit organised by the Hong Kong Government to engage and collaborate with the decision makers and professional teams of family offices around the globe, showcasing Hong Kong's unique opportunities.





Introducing a new Capital Investment Entrant Scheme: Hong Kong will implement a new Capital Investment Entrant Scheme to allow eligible investors who make investments of HK$30 million or above in assets such as stocks, funds, bonds, etc. (excluding real estate) to apply for entry into Hong Kong.





Philanthropic and Impact Investing: HKAWL will help nurture and foster strategic philanthropic initiatives and impactful giving, and promote investments with social and environmental benefits.





Art storage facilities: new art storage facilities will be built at the Hong Kong International Airport for collectors and investors, including family offices that deploy their wealth in art. It will leverage Hong Kong's position as the largest art market and auction centre in Asia, further promoting Hong Kong as a premier destination for art enthusiasts and family offices to explore the inclusion of art in investment portfolios.

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 6 December 2023 - In its latest push to turn Hong Kong into a top destination for wealth family offices, supervised by the Hong Kong Government, FSDC has recently set up the Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy (HKAWL), which will be steered by the city's tycoons, to offer a full suite of programme tailored to the upper echelon.Already a popular family office hub due to its robust financial infrastructure, low taxation and free market economy, Hong Kong is eyeing the next wave of new family offices. Asia is projected to witness a doubling of assets under management (AUM) and a 60% increase in revenues by 2025 compared to 2021 levels, with Hong Kong being the prime destination for wealth management business.The family offices landscape has been developing rapidly in Asia in the last decade. Following the recent establishment of the HKAWL, which will double as an open platform for family offices, Hong Kong is further sweetening the deal for wealth owners worldwide."As part of a family office that has been rooted in Hong Kong for more than 50 years, I am delighted to offer my support and insights to the HKAWL. Our goal is to educate the next generation of family business leaders, equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage their family offices and build upon the legacy we have established.said Adrian Cheng, Chairman of HKAWL and internationally renowned business leader.Led by industry experts and tycoons such as Cheng, who is also the CEO of Hong Kong conglomerate New World Development and the Founding Chairman of HKAWL, HKAWL serves as a significant step towards attracting global family offices to Hong Kong. It aims to offer comprehensive support, insights and knowledge exchange on wealth management to both draw global family offices and wealth managers to Hong Kong.Hong Kong currently boasts a massive asset and wealth management industry that is worth US$3.9 trillion. In 2022, family offices and private trusts contributed 17% of the private banking and private wealth management business in Hong Kong, roughly HK$1,520 billion, or US$195 billion. The city is also projected to be the largest booking centre by 2025.At the recent launch of the HKAWL, Cheng shared his views on the timely launch of the Academy and the major draws of Hong Kong as a premier family office hub. He said that Hong Kong offers four key comparative advantages over its peers for family offices. These include its status as the dominant gateway to the massive Mainland market and the global hub for offshore renminbi business. Hong Kong also provides a supportive regulatory environment underpinned by a well-established legal system with a favorable tax regime. As an international financial centre, it is home to the world's leading banks, and a large asset management market with diverse investment products. Additionally, the city is establishing itself as a hub for emerging financial trends that cater to the diversified needs of family offices, such as green and sustainable finance and the art and collectibles market., also shared the roadmap of HKAWL at its launch event, emphasising the importance of offering innovative events and investment opportunities that speak to next-generation wealth owners. They include:Echoing the key pillars outlined in Hui's roadmap, Cheng said it is important to acknowledge that multiple factors are currently reshaping the needs of family offices worldwide. "The emergence of Gen Z, for one, and the growing presence of female leadership, both of which are driving changes in the landscape of family offices. Additionally, approximately 1,400 unicorn companies, representing a combined value of over US$5 trillion, were founded by millennials, it becomes essential to adapt and cater to the evolving ambitions of this new generation of wealth owners."On his vision for the HKAWL, Cheng said: "It is fostering an inclusive and trusted, yet private environment for families to preserve their legacy across generations, thereby promoting the industry's sustainable growth. We therefore welcome new ideas from all stakeholders including notably other family offices."The establishment of HKAWL is one of the eight initiatives of the Hong Kong Government that aims at developing a vibrant ecosystem for global family offices and asset owners. In addition to the tax exemption for family-owned investment holding vehicles managed by single family offices in Hong Kong, the Government and regulators have implemented a number of market-facilitating initiatives, including streamlining the suitability assessment for sophisticated professional investors, and the launch of a Network of Family Office Service Providers under Invest Hong Kong.HKAWL is joined by five of Asia's richest families, including Chairman Adrian Cheng from the Cheng Family, one of the most prominent families in Asia; board member Daryl Ng; and advisory board members Philip Lawrence Kadoorie, Adam Kwok, and Poman Lo, all from the top 50 of Asia's richest families."Looking forward, Asia is the key battleground for wealth management firms. With Financial Services Development Council and HKAWL, we'll be able comprehensively strengthen our propositions to help families manage their wealth legacies." Cheng added.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Showcasing the latest developments in life sciences, AI and robotics, paving way to Hong Kong as an international science and research hub

Organised by the Innovation and Technology Commission and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC), the InnoHK Summit 2023 was held in Hong Kong Science Park today (December 6). Photo shows Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong (centre); the Chairman of the InnoHK Steering Committee, Professor Tsui Lap-chee (second left); the Permanent Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Mr Eddie Mak (second right); the Commissioner for Innovation and Technology, Mr Ivan Lee (first left); and the Chief Executive Officer of the HKSTPC, Mr Albert Wong (first right), officiating at the opening ceremony.

InnoHK Summit 2023 was held in Hong Kong Science Park attracted over 800 renowned scholars, researchers, organisations and industry leading forces around the world in attendance.

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 6 December 2023 - Organised by the Innovation and Technology Commission and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC), InnoHK Summit 2023 was held successfully in Hong Kong Science Park today (December 6), attracting over 800 world-class academics, scientists, representatives of renowned institutes and industry leaders from Hong Kong and around the world. Under the theme of "From Collaborative Research to Real World Impact", the Summit aims to showcase the latest innovation and technology (I&T) developments and breakthroughs of InnoHK, Hong Kong's leading role as a global research collaboration hub, and its strengths in commercialisation and talent development.The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, gave his welcoming at the Summit by video. Mr Lee said that the InnoHK initiative strives to build a global network of mutual learning and advancement, and the Summit is testimony to the importance attached by the HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government to international collaboration for knowledge advancement, addressing global issues, and transforming scientific findings into innovations that benefit humankind. He encouraged the Summit's participants to draw on the spirit of collaboration, and make lasting connections that would lead to more scientific breakthroughs and innovations in Hong Kong.Speaking at the forum, the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, said that Hong Kong has always been an open cosmopolitan with a diverse community and remains the only place in the world where global connectivity and the China advantage come together. With the staunch support from the motherland's National 14th Five-Year Plan, and the opportunities brought by the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Hong Kong is well positioned for I&T development. The Chief Executive had announced the establishment of a new InnoHK research centre focusing on Generative AI in his newly released Policy Address and the preparation for the establishment of the third InnoHK research cluster focusing on advanced manufacturing, materials, energy and sustainable development would commence next year.The Founding President of the Hong Kong Academy of Sciences and Chairman of the InnoHK Steering Committee, Professor Tsui Lap-chee, pointed out in his speech that the exchange of knowledge and ideas by people from different parts of the world has always been crucial to stimulating advances in science and technology while turning scientific findings into solutions with real-world impact requires the collaboration among the academia, industry, government and civil society that transcends traditional sector boundaries. He emphasised that InnoHK encapsulated the two dimensions of collaboration by connecting institutions and researchers across Asia Pacific, Europe and North America and encouraging them to work with the industry to translate their research outcomes into applications.The Chief Executive Officer of the HKSTPC, Mr Albert Wong, also spoke at the forum. He stated that InnoHK is unique due to Hong Kong's high concentration of top researchers and universities, its international connections, and robust government support for I&T. HKSTP is committed to focusing on research and its practical application. It will continuously enhance the ecosystem by attracting more participants, investment funding, and additional resources to solidify Hong Kong's role as a global powerhouse of innovation and technology.The Summit invited representatives from 28 research laboratories of two InnoHK clusters, namely Health@InnoHK, focusing on healthcare technologies, and AIR@InnoHK, focusing on artificial intelligence and robotics technologies to present their latest breakthroughs resulted from their collaborative research. They also shared the challenges faced, and set out targets and vision for future researches.Also, the summit provided a platform for experts from leading local and international universities and industry representatives to exchange valuable insights on I&T topics, covering life sciences' research and development (R&D), artificial intelligence and commercialisation of R&D outcomes, during three panel discussions. They also discussed and exchanged views and ideas on the latest trends and perspectives of I&T research and development to harness the collective wisdom and insights that helps lay solid foundation for Hong Kong's transformation into an international I&T hub.InnoHK is a major I&T initiative of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government to develop Hong Kong as a hub for global research collaboration. Two research clusters have been set up at the Hong Kong Science Park, namely Health@InnoHK, focusing on healthcare technologies, and AIR@InnoHK that focuses on artificial intelligence and robotics technologies. InnoHK involves seven local universities and research institutions as well as over 30 top-notch institutions from 11 economies, pooling together 2,500 researchers locally and from all over the world.Hashtag: #HKSTP #InnoHK

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 with a mission to position Hong Kong as an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub. HKSTP has created a thriving I&T ecosystem supporting over 10 unicorns with more than 13,000 research professionals and over 1,500 technology companies from 24 countries and regions focused on healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies.



We offer comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures on their I&T journey. Our growing innovation ecosystem is built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Shatin, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long. The three InnoParks are realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined for a new generation of industry.



To support Hong Kong's future development and its growing demands of the I&T industry, HKSTP is actively connecting the city with Shenzhen. This aims to strengthen cross-border exchange, attract technology companies as well as talent from around the world, helping them go global by exploring the mainland China and overseas markets.



Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen, opened in September this year with a gross floor area of 31,000 square meters. The two buildings provide both dry and wet laboratories, co-working areas, conference and exhibition spaces, and more. We will focus on attracting enterprises in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability.



Through our infrastructure, services, expertise, and network of partnerships, HKSTP will help establish I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong, while reinforcing the city's international I&T hub status as a launchpad for growth at the heart of the GBA innovation powerhouse.



More information about HKSTP is available at www.hkstp.org.


Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 5, 2023) - Golden Spike Resources Corp. (CSE: GLDS) (OTCQB: GSPRF) (FSE: L5Y) ("Golden Spike" or the "Company") further to its news release on November 30, 2023, the Company has closed the private placement financing and issued 3,950,000 Units at $0.08 per Unit for gross proceeds of $316,000. Each Unit consists of one common share and one-half of one warrant. Each whole transferable warrant (a "Warrant") is exercisable at $0.10 per common share until December 5, 2025 (the "Private Placement").

The Company paid finder's fees consisting of $4,800 cash and 60,000 non-transferable warrants. Each finder's warrant is exercisable at $0.10 per common share until December 5, 2025, on a portion of the Private Placement in accordance with the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange.

Eric Sprott, through 2176423 Ontario Ltd., a corporation beneficially owned by him, acquired 2,500,000 Units pursuant to the Private Placement for total consideration of $200,000. Prior to the Private Placement, Mr. Sprott beneficially owned or controlled 1,000,000 common shares of the Company representing approximately 2.8 % of the outstanding common shares of the Company on a non diluted basis.

As a result of the Private Placement, Mr. Sprott now beneficially owns or controls 3,500,000 common shares and 1,250,000 common share purchase warrants of the Company representing approximately 8.7% on a non-diluted basis and 12.0% on a fully diluted basis assuming the exercise of such Warrants.

The securities are held for investment purposes. Mr. Sprott has a long-term view of the investment and may acquire additional securities including on the open market or through private acquisitions or sell the securities including on the open market or through private dispositions in the future depending on market conditions, reformulation of plans and/or other relevant factors.

A copy of the early warning report with respect to the foregoing will appear on Golden Spikes's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and may also be obtained by calling Mr. Sprott's office at (416) 945-3294 (2176423 Ontario Ltd., 7 King Street East, Suite 1106, Toronto Ontario M5C 3C5).

Proceeds of the Private Placement will be used for exploration and development of the Company's projects in Newfoundland, and for general working capital.

About Golden Spike

Golden Spike Resources Corp. (CSE:GLDS) (OTCQB: GSPRF) (FSE: L5Y) is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on identifying, acquiring and unlocking value in mineral opportunities in Canada and other low-risk jurisdictions. The Company currently holds 100% interest in the 3,425-hectare Gregory River Property in Newfoundland, strategically centered over an approximate 11-kilometer-long stretch of the Gregory River VMS-belt, a north-northeast trending corridor of very prospective ground with potential to host Cyprus-type polymetallic VMS deposits. In addition, the Property hosts a cluster of historically explored, high-grade, copper gold vein structures.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Keith Anderson, President and CEO

Golden Spike Resources Corp.

830 - 1100 Melville St., Vancouver, BC, V6E 4A6

+1 (604) 786-7774

[email protected] ; www.goldenspikeresources.com

"Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release."

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" occur.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/189983
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - KO Gold Inc. (CSE: KOG) ("KO Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement of up to 3,030,303 units (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.33 per Unit for gross proceeds of up to $1,000,000 (the "Offering"). Each Unit shall be comprised of one Common Share (each, a "Share") in the capital of the Company and one Share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant shall entitle the holder thereof to acquire one additional Share at a price of $0.40 for a period of two (2) years from the date of issuance. In connection with the Offering, the Company may pay certain eligible persons finder's fees of cash and warrants (each, a "Broker Warrant"). Each Broker Warrant shall entitle the holder thereof to acquire one Share at a price of $0.40 per Share for a period of two (2) years from the date of issuance.

The net proceeds from the Offering will be used to fund the Company's upcoming exploration and drilling programs on its prospecting and exploration permits in the Otago Gold District ("Otago") of New Zealand and for general working capital purposes.

All securities issued pursuant to the Offering will be subject to a hold period of four months plus a day from the date of issuance and the resale rules of applicable securities legislation. The closing of the Offering is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory and other approvals, including the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE").

Corporate Update

The Company is also pleased to provide a corporate update to shareholders. Over the past three months, KO Gold has achieved several key milestones including:

Commenced trading on the CSE under "KOG" on October 11, 2023.

Acquired the two exploration permits that comprise the Smylers Gold Project (" Smylers ") through the acquisition of Hyde Resources Ltd (" Hyde ") as announced by the Company on October 30, 2023.

Greg Isenor, President and CEO of KO Gold recently completed a four-week visit to New Zealand meeting with potential investors, mining consultants and Hyde staff to plan upcoming exploration and drilling activities, and government officials from New Zealand Petroleum and Minerals (" NZP&M "). Mr. Isenor also spent time evaluating potential property acquisitions in Otago and met with potential candidates to oversee its New Zealand operations.

KO Gold has six 100%-owned prospecting and exploration permits in Otago. These permits are located near OceanaGold's producing Macraes Gold Mine within the Hyde-Macraes Shear Zone (HMSZ) and Santana Minerals' resource-stage Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project within the Rise and Shine Shear Zone (RSSZ). Santana's extensive drilling of the RSSZ over the past 3 years has delineated one of the largest gold deposits in Otago and has provided a better understanding of the geological/structural characteristics and gold potential within these high-grade shear zones.

In early 2023, KO Gold applied for a five-year exploration permit over the entire Carrick Goldfield immediately adjacent to its existing Carrick prospecting permit. NZP&M is currently reviewing the application and the exploration permit is expected to be granted in early 2024. The Carrick Goldfield in Otago has been explored and mined for gold since 1864 with an estimated 24,000 ounces produced from the region until 1921 and nearly 7,600 m of historical drilling completed. Gold mineralization at Carrick occurs within shallow dipping shear zones associated with the axial planes of folds. A preliminary 3D geological model has been completed for Carrick based on a detailed exploration database compiled by Hyde and GNS Science and will be used by KO Gold for exploration and drill hole targeting.

KO Gold also has access to other geological and exploration databases compiled by Hyde for the Otago Gold District. These databases are currently being evaluated and will aid in the selection of exploration and drill hole targets on the Smylers and Hyde exploration permits.

KO Gold is currently working with its technical team and consultants in New Zealand to develop a detailed exploration and drilling program, which is expected to commence in early 2024. This program will include prospecting, stream sediment, and soil sampling on its earlier stage permits (Rough Ridge South and Carrick prospecting permits); and reverse circulation (RC) and/or diamond drilling on its Smylers, Hyde, and Carrick exploration permits, with the ultimate goal to delineate a potential gold resource similar to Macraes Mine and the Bendigo-Ophir Project.

Qualified Person Statement

All scientific and technical information contained in this news release was prepared and approved by Paul Tniere, M.Sc., P.Geo., Vice President of Exploration and Director of KO Gold Inc., and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101.

About KO Gold Inc.

KO Gold is a Canadian junior mining company listed on the CSE under the ticker symbol "KOG". The Company's strategy is to acquire and advance highly prospective gold properties within the Otago Gold District in New Zealand. KO Gold has six 100%-owned prospecting and exploration permits within the Otago Gold District for a combined land package of approximately 972 km2. The Smylers Gold Project is an advanced exploration project located adjacent to OceanaGold's active Macraes Gold Mine. The Smylers Gold Project has the potential to host a major gold deposit based on significant investments in exploration and drilling over the past few years including over C$1M spent by KO Gold on exploration, and reverse circulation (RC) and diamond drilling.

For further information, please contact:

Greg Isenor, President and CEO, Director

Tel: (902) 832-5555

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.kogoldnz.com

KO Gold Inc.

Suite 802 - Sun Tower, 1550 Bedford Highway Bedford, Nova Scotia

B4A 1E6 Canada

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Forward-Looking Information

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/190117
London, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - Media Impact, a consulting firm, is proud to announce its second research study into the potential economic impact of a new constitution in Togo.

Following the successful completion of its first study, which explored the political implications of constitutional reform, Media Impact will now delve deeper into the economic reforms for the West African nation.

Caption: Media Impact Announces Second Research Study into Togo's Economy

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8928/190043_b6377627441a0bd7_001full.jpg

"This second study will build upon our previous work and provide a comprehensive analysis of the anticipated economic reforms, their potential impact on various sectors, and the overall trajectory of Togo's economy," said Angela White, spokesperson of Media Impact.

The research will focus on the following key areas:

Impact of proposed reforms on transparency, accountability, and good governance.

Access to external financing.

Effects on business climate, including property rights, regulations, and market competition.

Economic reforms related to land tenure, labor rights, and access to financial services.

Contribution of the new constitution to poverty reduction and inequality.

The study will utilize a combination of quantitative and qualitative methodologies, including:

Review of existing literature and policy documents.

Interviews with key stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, and civil society organizations.

Analysis of economic data and trends.

The findings of the study are expected to be released in the first quarter of 2024.

Why This Study Matters:

In an era characterized by the rapid flow of capital across borders, understanding the intricacies of FDI is more critical than ever. Media Impact's research will provide the reader with the knowledge required to navigate this complex and dynamic landscape.

The unveiling of the research study will mark a significant milestone in the field of international business and economics.

Media Impact's research study will provide valuable insights into Togo's journey and its evolving role as an FDI spot. The comprehensive analysis will be announced soon.

For media inquiries or more information about Media Impact's upcoming study on Foreign Direct Investment, please contact: [email protected]

Contact name: Angela White

Address 1: Mayfair

Address 2: 8 Shepherd Market

Phone: +441632960450

Email: [email protected]

City: London

Country: United Kingdom

Website URL: https://www.mediaimpact.io/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/190043
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 5, 2023) - Miramis Mining Corp. (the "Company") is pleased to announce, further to its news releases dated July 17, 2023, July 28, 2023, and November 23, 2023, that it has closed its final tranche (the "Final Tranche") of its non-brokered private placement for gross proceeds of up to $500,000 (the "Offering") through the issuance of up to 10,000,000 common shares of the Company (each, a "Share") at a price of $0.05 per Share.

The Final Tranche consisted of 2,410,000 Shares for gross proceeds of $120,500.00. Finder's fees of $2,960.00 and 59,200 finder's warrants (each, a "Finder's Warrant") were paid. Each Finder's Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Share (each, a "Finder's Warrant Share") at an exercise price of $0.05 per Finder's Warrant Share for a period of twenty-four months following the Date of Issue. The Company has raised total aggregate proceeds of $575,250.00 from all tranche closings of the Offering.

All securities issued in respect of the Offering will be subject to a hold period of four (4) months and a day from closing of the Offering in accordance with securities laws.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Morgan Good"

Morgan Good

Chief Executive Officer

T: 604-715-4751

E: [email protected]

Notice Regarding Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Such information includes, without limitation, information regarding the terms of the Offering and the intended use of proceeds from the Offering. Although the Company believes that such information is reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct.

Forward looking information is typically identified by words such as: "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "postulate" and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by the Company is not a guarantee of future results or performance and that such forward-looking information is based upon a number of estimates and assumptions of management in light of management's experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, as of the date of this news release including, without limitation, that the Offering will close and will do so on the proposed terms; that the Company will be able to utilize the net proceeds of the Offering in the manner intended; that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner; that applicable regulatory approvals will be received; and assumptions regarding political and regulatory stability and stability in financial and capital markets.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors include, among others: the risk that the Company may not complete the Offering; the risk that the Offering may not be completed on the anticipated terms; the risk that the Company may not be able to use the proceeds of the Offering as intended; the state of the financial markets for the Company's securities; recent market volatility and potentially negative capital raising conditions resulting from the continued COVID-19 pandemic and risks relating to the extent and duration of such pandemic and its impact on global markets; the conflict in Eastern Europe; the Company's ability to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies; and other risks and factors that the Company is unaware of at this time

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/189985
Showcasing the latest developments in life sciences, AI and robotics, paving way to Hong Kong as an international science and research hub

Hong Kong, Hong Kong--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - Organised by the Innovation and Technology Commission and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC), InnoHK Summit 2023 was held successfully in Hong Kong Science Park today (December 6), attracting over 800 world-class academics, scientists, representatives of renowned institutes and industry leaders from Hong Kong and around the world. Under the theme of "From Collaborative Research to Real World Impact", the Summit aims to showcase the latest innovation and technology (I&T) developments and breakthroughs of InnoHK, Hong Kong's leading role as a global research collaboration hub, and its strengths in commercialisation and talent development.





Organised by the Innovation and Technology Commission and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC), the InnoHK Summit 2023 was held in Hong Kong Science Park today (December 6). Photo shows Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong (centre); the Chairman of the InnoHK Steering Committee, Professor Tsui Lap-chee (second left); the Permanent Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Mr Eddie Mak (second right); the Commissioner for Innovation and Technology, Mr Ivan Lee (first left); and the Chief Executive Officer of the HKSTPC, Mr Albert Wong (first right), officiating at the opening ceremony.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7958/190047_figure1.jpg

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, gave his welcoming at the Summit by video. Mr Lee said that the InnoHK initiative strives to build a global network of mutual learning and advancement, and the Summit is testimony to the importance attached by the HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government to international collaboration for knowledge advancement, addressing global issues, and transforming scientific findings into innovations that benefit humankind. He encouraged the Summit's participants to draw on the spirit of collaboration, and make lasting connections that would lead to more scientific breakthroughs and innovations in Hong Kong.

Speaking at the forum, the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, said that Hong Kong has always been an open cosmopolitan with a diverse community and remains the only place in the world where global connectivity and the China advantage come together. With the staunch support from the motherland's National 14th Five-Year Plan, and the opportunities brought by the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Hong Kong is well positioned for I&T development. The Chief Executive had announced the establishment of a new InnoHK research centre focusing on Generative AI in his newly released Policy Address and the preparation for the establishment of the third InnoHK research cluster focusing on advanced manufacturing, materials, energy and sustainable development would commence next year.





InnoHK Summit 2023 was held in Hong Kong Science Park attracted over 800 renowned scholars, researchers, organisations and industry leading forces around the world in attendance.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7958/190047_figure2.jpg

The Founding President of the Hong Kong Academy of Sciences and Chairman of the InnoHK Steering Committee, Professor Tsui Lap-chee, pointed out in his speech that the exchange of knowledge and ideas by people from different parts of the world has always been crucial to stimulating advances in science and technology while turning scientific findings into solutions with real-world impact requires the collaboration among the academia, industry, government and civil society that transcends traditional sector boundaries. He emphasised that InnoHK encapsulated the two dimensions of collaboration by connecting institutions and researchers across Asia Pacific, Europe and North America and encouraging them to work with the industry to translate their research outcomes into applications.

The Chief Executive Officer of the HKSTPC, Mr Albert Wong, also spoke at the forum. He stated that InnoHK is unique due to Hong Kong's high concentration of top researchers and universities, its international connections, and robust government support for I&T. HKSTP is committed to focusing on research and its practical application. It will continuously enhance the ecosystem by attracting more participants, investment funding, and additional resources to solidify Hong Kong's role as a global powerhouse of innovation and technology.

The Summit invited representatives from 28 research laboratories of two InnoHK clusters, namely Health@InnoHK, focusing on healthcare technologies, and AIR@InnoHK, focusing on artificial intelligence and robotics technologies to present their latest breakthroughs resulted from their collaborative research. They also shared the challenges faced, and set out targets and vision for future researches.

Also, the summit provided a platform for experts from leading local and international universities and industry representatives to exchange valuable insights on I&T topics, covering life sciences' research and development (R&D), artificial intelligence and commercialisation of R&D outcomes, during three panel discussions. They also discussed and exchanged views and ideas on the latest trends and perspectives of I&T research and development to harness the collective wisdom and insights that helps lay solid foundation for Hong Kong's transformation into an international I&T hub.

InnoHK is a major I&T initiative of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government to develop Hong Kong as a hub for global research collaboration. Two research clusters have been set up at the Hong Kong Science Park, namely Health@InnoHK, focusing on healthcare technologies, and AIR@InnoHK that focuses on artificial intelligence and robotics technologies. InnoHK involves seven local universities and research institutions as well as over 30 top-notch institutions from 11 economies, pooling together 2,500 researchers locally and from all over the world.

Hashtag: #HKSTP #InnoHK

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 with a mission to position Hong Kong as an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub. HKSTP has created a thriving I&T ecosystem supporting over 10 unicorns with more than 13,000 research professionals and over 1,500 technology companies from 24 countries and regions focused on healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies.

We offer comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures on their I&T journey. Our growing innovation ecosystem is built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Shatin, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long. The three InnoParks are realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined for a new generation of industry.

To support Hong Kong's future development and its growing demands of the I&T industry, HKSTP is actively connecting the city with Shenzhen. This aims to strengthen cross-border exchange, attract technology companies as well as talent from around the world, helping them go global by exploring the mainland China and overseas markets.

Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen, opened in September this year with a gross floor area of 31,000 square meters. The two buildings provide both dry and wet laboratories, co-working areas, conference and exhibition spaces, and more. We will focus on attracting enterprises in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability.

Through our infrastructure, services, expertise, and network of partnerships, HKSTP will help establish I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong, while reinforcing the city's international I&T hub status as a launchpad for growth at the heart of the GBA innovation powerhouse.

More information about HKSTP is available at www.hkstp.org.

[email protected]

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/190047
Upper Chinchilla Zone

SE23-050: 0.4 m grading 570.2 g/t Ag, 20.8% Pb, 1.5% Zn, 0.3 g/t Au (or 1,299.1 g/t AgEq)

Within: 24.4 m grading 134.1 g/t Ag, 2.5% Pb, 2.4% Zn, 0.1 g/t Au (or 321.9 g/t AgEq)

Lower Chinchilla Zone

SE23-049: 1.5 m grading 51.6 g/t Ag, 1.9% Pb, 1.9% Zn, 0.4 g/t Au (or 225.3 g/t AgEq) And: 1.1m grading 0.4% Cu, 0.2% W, 0.3% Zn, 2.0 g/t Ag



To view a summary of today's press release by Ridgeline CEO Chad Peters, click HERE

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - Ridgeline Minerals Corp. (TSXV: RDG) (OTCQB: RDGMF) (FSE: 0GC0) ("Ridgeline" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the remaining results from the Company's five (5) hole, 2,034 meter ("m") drill program at the Selena ("Selena") project, Nevada. Results from the Upper Chinchilla zone returned broad intercepts of silver ("Ag") - lead ("Pb") - zinc ("Zn") - gold ("Au") with individual assays grading up to 795 grams per tonne ("g/t") Ag, 25% Pb, 2% Zn, 0.3 g/t Au and 0.2% copper ("Cu") that further support the high-grade tenor of the original Chinchilla zone discovery (Figure 1) (see January 24, 2023 press release HERE).

Notably, core holes SE23-049 and SE23-050 were drilled beneath the Chinchilla zone for the first time and intersected stacked Ag-Pb-Zn-Au mineralized horizons ranging from 0.5 m to 4.0 m thickness with individual samples grading up to 63.9 g/t Ag, 0.3% Pb, 1.4% Zn and 0.6 g/t Au (Table 1). These new intercepts effectively double the known vertical extent of Carbonate Replacement ("CRD") mineralization at Chinchilla down to a depth of 690 m (Figure 2). Mineralization remains open at depth and along strike for over 3 kilometers towards the Butte Valley porphyry, the interpreted source to the Selena CRD system (see Long Section A-A' HERE)

Chad Peters, Ridgeline's President, and CEO commented, "The confirmation of stacked mineralized horizons beneath the high-grade Chinchilla Oxide zone is a significant development for the project. Previous drilling had already confirmed that Selena is capable of hosting bonanza grade CRD mineralization and the addition of stacked zones at depth dramatically increases the tonnage potential across all target areas."

Michael Harp, Ridgeline's Vice President, Exploration continues, "The lateral metal zonation observed across the Chinchilla Oxide zone continues to support our team's interpretation that we are within the outer oxide rind of a potentially much larger CRD system that is zoning back towards the Butte Valley copper porphyry, the interpreted source to the CRD mineralization at Selena. The Chinchilla Sulfide target is located down-dip of the oxide zone, where a single scout hole in 2022 returned high-grade CRD intercepts but only tested the top 100 meters of the now 450-meter host rock section drilled in 2023. The next steps are to drill the Chinchilla Sulfide target, which exhibits the potential scale and proximity to the porphyry source to host a major sulfide discovery within the greater CRD footprint already defined at Selena."

Highlight Drill Results

SE23-050

0.4 m grading 570.2 g/t Ag, 20.8% Pb, 1.5% Zn, 0.3 g/t Au, (or 1,299.1 g/t Silver Equivalent ("AgEq") (interval includes 0.13% Cu not included in the AgEq calculation) (Figure 1 & Figure 2) within 4.9 m grading 229.7 g/t Ag, 6.5% Pb, 3.5% Zn, 0.2 g/t Au (or 594.6 g/t AgEq) within 24.4 m grading 134.1 g/t Ag, 2.5% Pb, 2.4% Zn, 0.1 g/t Au (or 321.9 g/t AgEq) starting at 248m true vertical depth ("TVD") (Picture 1)

(interval includes 0.13% Cu not included in the AgEq calculation) (Figure 1 & Figure 2) 0.9 m grading 315.1 g/t Ag, 3.5% Pb, 0.3% Zn, 0.1 g/t Au, (or 445.6 g/t AgEq) starting at 257 m TVD

Click thumbnail to view video of SE23-050 core sample

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Picture 1: Core photo of the 24.4m Upper Chinchilla Oxide zone intercept in SE23-050.

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SE23-049

2.2 m grading 9.26 g/t Ag, 0.02% Pb, 4.2% Zn, 0.1 g/t Au (or 193.1 g/t AgEq) starting at 218m TVD (Figure 2)

starting at 218m TVD (Figure 2) And: 0.7 m grading 151.5 g/t Ag, 0.9% Pb, 0.7% Zn, 0.2 g/t Au (or 228.9 g/t AgEq) Within: 9.1 m grading 29.9 g/t Ag, 0.6% Pb, 0.3% Zn, 0.04 g/t Au (or 62.7g/t AgEq) starting at 242m TVD 9.1m intercept contained a 2.7 m interval of unrecovered core. The lost core interval was assigned an assay value of 0.0 across all metals, resulting in an estimated dilution of roughly 30% to the overall composite value

1.5 m grading 51.6 g/t Ag, 1.9% Pb, 1.9% Zn, 0.4 g/t Au (or 225.3 g/t AgEq) starting at 269m TVD

starting at 269m TVD 1.1m grading 0.4% Cu, 0.2% W, 0.3% Zn, 2.0 g/t Ag starting at 417m TVD (Figure 2) Copper and Tungsten mineralization was hosted within a quartz feldspar porphyry sill exhibiting localized garnet skarn alteration and scheelite (Tungsten Carbonate) mineralization

starting at 417m TVD (Figure 2) 0.8m grading 57.5 g/t Ag, 0.3% Pb, 1.3% Zn, 0.5 g/t Au (or 161.7 g/t AgEq) starting at 554m TVD Mineralized intercepts in the lower zone horizons are typically hosted with broad intervals (5-15m) of pervasive brecciation, fugitive calcite veining ("BBQ Rock") and silicification (Picture 2). Manganese ("Mn") rich (>1% Mn) zones of bedding replacement and fracture coatings were observed throughout the lower stratigraphy, which is consistent with the distal zonation patterns of other large CRD deposits globally

starting at 554m TVD

Picture 2: Shortwave UV photo of fugitive calcite veining "BBQ Rock" at depth in SE23-049. Tracking fugitive calcite veining is a proven vectoring technique in CRD systems

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Table 1: Table of 2023 Chinchilla Oxide zone assay results





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For a complete table of all Chinchilla Zone assay results click HERE

Figure 1: Plan view map showing 2023 drill results with silver equivalent grade contours highlighting high-grade chimney zones (purple) located at structural intersections

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For a complete table of all Chinchilla Oxide Zone assay results click HERE

Figure 2: Chinchilla Long-Section C-C' highlighting 2023 drill results. Note stacked CRD zones at depth with hole SE23-049 bottoming in mineralization in the Sevy Dolomite (new host rock)

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Selena Project

Selena is located in White Pine County, Nevada, approximately 64 kilometers ("km") north of the town of Ely, NV. The Project shares a property boundary with the Butte Valley project, a US $33M earn-in agreement between Freeport-McMoRan and Falcon Butte Minerals. The 100% owned project is comprised of 39 square kms of highly prospective exploration ground including Ridgeline's shallow-oxide 2020 Ag-Au  Pb-Zn Chinchilla discovery. Subsequent drilling has continued to highlight the potential for high-grade CRD type mineralization (Ag-Au-Pb-Zn Cu) between Chinchilla and the Butte Valley Cu-Au-Ag porphyry located directly west of the property. (View the Selena VRIFY Deck Here)

QAQC Procedures

Samples are submitted to American Assay Laboratories (AAL) of Sparks, Nevada, which is a certified and accredited laboratory, independent of the Company. Independent check samples are sent to Paragon Geochemical Labs (PAL) of Sparks, Nevada. Samples are prepared using industry-standard prep methods and analysed using FA-PB30-ICP (Au; 30 g fire assay) and ICP-5AM48 (48 element Suite; 0.5 g 5-acid digestion/ICP-MS) methods. AAL also undertakes its own internal coarse and pulp duplicate analysis to ensure proper sample preparation and equipment calibration. Ridgeline's QA/QC program includes regular insertion of CRM standards, duplicates, and blanks into the sample stream with a stringent review of all results completed by the Company's Qualified Person, Michael T. Harp, Vice President, Exploration.

Technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Michael T. Harp, CPG. the Company's Vice President, Exploration, who is Ridgeline's Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 and responsible for technical matters of this release.

About Ridgeline Minerals Corp.

Ridgeline Minerals is a discovery focused precious and base metal explorer with a proven management team and a 204 km2 exploration portfolio across six projects in Nevada and Idaho, USA. More information about Ridgeline can be found at www.RidgelineMinerals.com.

On behalf of the Board

"Chad Peters"

President & CEO

Further Information:

Chad Peters, P.Geo.

President, CEO & Director

Ridgeline Minerals Corp.

+1 775 304 9773

[email protected]

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Cautionary Note regarding Forward Looking Statements

Statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts are "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "Forward-Looking Information") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-Looking Information includes, but is not limited to, the anticipated benefits of the Earn-In Agreement and the transaction contemplated thereby. The words "potential", "anticipate", "meaningful", "discovery", "forecast", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "project", "plan", "historical", "historic" and similar expressions are intended to be among the statements that identify Forward-Looking Information. Forward-Looking Information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results to be materially different from any future results expressed or implied by the Forward-Looking Information. In preparing the Forward-Looking Information in this news release, Ridgeline has applied several material assumptions, including, but not limited to, assumptions that TSX Venture Exchange approval will be granted in a timely manner subject only to standard conditions; the current objectives concerning the Project can be achieved and that its other corporate activities will proceed as expected; that general business and economic conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner; and that all requisite information will be available in a timely manner. Forward-Looking Information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of Ridgeline to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the Forward-Looking Information. Such risks and other factors include, among others, risks related to dependence on key personnel; risks related to unforeseen delays; risks related to historical data that has not been verified by the Company; as well as those factors discussed in Ridgeline's public disclosure record. Although Ridgeline has attempted to identify important factors that could affect Ridgeline and may cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in Forward-Looking Information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that Forward-Looking Information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on Forward-Looking Information. Except as required by law, Ridgeline does not assume any obligation to release publicly any revisions to Forward-Looking Information contained in this news release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/190025
Macau, China--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - On November 28-29, 2023, the second Macau Space Development Forum was successfully held in Macao. As a major component of the series of science and technology events, the forum was jointly organized by the China Space Foundation and the Macao Foundation, co-hosted by the Macau University of Science and Technology and China Space Science and Industry Consultation Co., Ltd. The second Macau Space Development Forum received widespread attention and participation from various sectors of society.

The forum was divided into a main forum and two sub-forums. On the afternoon of November 28th, the main forum of the 2nd Macau Space Development Forum was grandly held in the conference hall of the Wynn Palace Hotel in Macao. Li Guoping, chief engineer of the China National Space Administration (CNSA) delivered a speech, reviewing the remarkable achievements of China's Space industry in the past five years and the fruitful results achieved in the exchange of space technology between Macao and the mainland. He encouraged Macao to fully leverage its advantages in the long-term integration of diverse cultures from the East and West, and to deepen international exchanges and cooperation in space based on equality, mutual benefit, peaceful utilization, and inclusive development, especially in the field of space science, technology, and applications.

Wu Zhijian, chairman of the China Space Foundation, and Zhong Yi, acting chairperson of the Administrative Committee of the Macao Foundation, delivered speeches on behalf of the forum organizers. They warmly welcomed the attending leaders, experts, and scholars, and introduced the achievements of their respective foundations in recent years in the cultivation of space talents and the development of the space industry.

Deputy director Pang Qifu of the Economic and Technological Development Bureau of the Macao Special Administrative Region Government briefed the guests on a series of policy measures and development goals adopted by the Macao SAR government to promote the development of high-tech industries, with space technology as a representative.

Academicians and experts in attendance, centering around the theme of interdisciplinary integration and technological convergence in space technology, delivered presentations on the latest achievements in their respective fields. Distinguished guests who traveled from afar to address the audience included David Gubbins, royal society fellow and distinguished professor of the Macau University of Science and Technology; Yu Dengyun, academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and chief designer of the lunar exploration project (phase IV); Chui Sai Peng, president of the Association for Promotion of Science & Technology of Macau; Hu Zhongmin, chairman of China Great Wall Industrial Corporation (CGWIC); Sin Sai Weng, deputy director of the State Key Laboratory of Analog and Mixed-Signal VLSI at the University of Macau.

Royal Society Fellow and Distinguished Professor of the Macau University of Science and Technology, David Gubbins, delivered a keynote speech at the main forum

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On November 29, 2023, the second Macau Space Development Forum hosted two sub-forums at the Macau University of Science and Technology. The two sub-forums focused on the role of space technology in promoting the diversified development of Macao's economy and the technology and applications of Macao satellites. Taking full advantage of Macao's international cultural and technological exchange platform, the forum gathered over twenty academicians, experts, and industry representatives from countries and regions including the United Kingdom, Australia, Norway, Austria, and Hong Kong, China. They took the stage to provide insights for the contribution of space technology to Macao's industrial and economic development, as well as to offer suggestions for the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao International Innovation Center, and to provide guidance for the technological advancement and satellite applications of Macao's scientific satellites.

Group photo of guests for the sub-forum I

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The sub-forum I was themed "Space Technology Boosts the Diversified Development of Macau's Economy Forum." Chairman of the Administrative Committee of the Science and Technology Development Fund, Che Weng Keong, expressed in his speech that technological innovation is a key factor in realizing the moderately diversified development of Macao's "1+4" economy. The SAR government, through policy guidance, is gradually building a technology innovation system with enterprises as the main body, market-oriented, and in-depth integration of industry, academia, and research. This system aims to promote financial institutions and social capital to invest in the technology industry, supporting Macao enterprises in enhancing their core competitiveness through technological means. After years of exploration, the Macao Science and Technology Development Fund has established a technology innovation funding system with enterprises and universities as the main body. Representing cutting-edge national science and technology, the space and related industries can be deeply integrated with the diverse needs of Macao's industrial and commercial development through the conversion and transfer of high-tech achievements.

The sub-forum I comprised four main theme presentations. Director Zhao Jian delivered a report, titled, "Space Technology Benefits Macau SAR and Provides Global Services." Vice President Tam, Kwong Hang analyzed "Exploring AI in Healthcare: Applications and Challenges." CEO Niu Min presented on the "Outlook for Commercial Space Development," and Academician Shyy Wei, expounded on the "Low Earth Satellite's Societal Implications." Following the presentations, under the moderation of Secretary-General Wang Cheng, Chairman Che Weng Keong, Academician Shyy Wei, General Manager Li Cheng, Vice President Zhou Boyang, and Vice President Wang Ruijing engaged in a dialogue on the topic of "Construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao International Innovation Center." They discussed ways in which space technology can contribute to the economic development of Macau and its significant implications.

Forum sub-forum II: Anja Strmme, European Space Agency(ESA)'s Swarm Mission Manager, to deliver keynote speech.

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At the sub-forum II, themed, "Macau Science Satellites: Science and Application," the attending experts and researchers, such as Dr. Anja Stromme from European Space Agency, Associate Professor Simon Edward Williams from the University of Tasmania, and Dr. Werner Magnes from the Space Research Institute of Austrian Academy of Science, provided detailed reports on various crucial scientific and technological issues and advancements related to the Macau Science Satellites-1 (MSS-1). These included topics such as satellite data correction, the nature of the Earth's outer core power generator, distribution of the Earth's geomagnetic conductivity, and the magnetic structure of large-scale ocean currents.

In sub-forum II featured a keynote address by Dr. Werner Magnes

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The hosting of this forum serves as a significant platform for exchange and cooperation between Macau and China in the space field. The reports presented by the participating experts not only showcased the latest research achievements in their respective fields but also indicated directions for future collaboration and development.

CompanyMacau University of Science and Technology

Contact Person: Tan Jia Yun

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.must.edu.mo

Telephone: (853) 2888 1122

City: Macau

Address: Avenida Weilong, Taipa, Macau, China

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/190030
Shanghai, China--(Newsfile Corp. - December 6, 2023) - The second Shanghai International Online Literature Week opened on December 5th. Writers, translators, scholars, and representatives from 18 countries gathered in Shanghai to participate in this international event of online literature.

WebNovel, one of the world's largest online literature platforms, organized the 2023 WebNovel Spirity Awards ceremony during the opening ceremony of the Online Literature Week.





Figure 1

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This year, nearly 110,000 works participated in the competition in total. Through intense competition, 19 writers won the WSA awards. They will collectively share a prize pool of approximately $70,000 and also receive the opportunity for priority IP development.

Among them, the works of American writer WhiteNightingale, Canadian writer Aoki_Aku, Ghanaian writer Glorious_Eagle, and Indonesian writer ForeverPupa have been awarded the prestigious WSA Gold Prize.

Aoki_Aku said, "The freedom that writing has granted me has made me a better personand I would like to think that even the most mundane of experiences can be shaped into part of an amazing work of fiction."

WebNovel is an overseas platform owned by Yuewen, also known as China Literature, Tencent, launched in May 2017. WebNovel supports global writers to create their own stories and update novels in a serialized format. As of October 2023, WebNovel has approximately 400,000 authors and has released around 610,000 web novels, attracting a cumulative total of 220 million users from 200 countries and regions.

WebNovel announced Multilingual Development Plan at the opening ceremony. Outstanding works have the potential to be translated into English, Spanish, Indonesian, Portuguese, German, French, Thai, or Japanese with the help of AI, allowing great stories to reach a broader global audience.

Hou Xiaonan, CEO and President of Yuewen, emphasized that online literature industry has entered an exciting new phase of "global co-creation of intellectual property (IP)". Authors from diverse countries and regions are collaboratively incubating and developing online literature IP, heralding a fresh wave of globalization in the online literature industry.

According to WebNovel, approximately 40% of the previous WSA award-winning works have been successfully developed into various mediums, such as physical books, audio books, comics, and TV series. The collaborative partners are from United States, United Kingdom, India, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand, etc.

Media Contact

Company Name: WebNovel

Contact: Dave Dai

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.webnovel.com/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/190027
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Azerbaijan and FAO have discussed introduction of innovative approaches in the agricultural sector, Azerbaijani Economy Minister Mikayil Jabbarov wrote on X, Trend reports.

"We emphasized the successful partnership between the UN and our country across several fields during our discussion with Muhammad Nasar Hayat, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization's representative in Azerbaijan. Furthermore, we investigated prospective partnership arrangements between FAO and Azerbaijan, with an emphasis on maintaining food security and implementing new agricultural practices," he said.

Azerbaijan has been a member of FAO since October 20, 1995, and an office of the organization has been functioning in the country since autumn 2015.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Phoenix, Arizona and Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - December 5, 2023) - YourWay Cannabis Brands Inc. (CSE: YOUR) (OTC: YOURF) ("YourWay" or the "Company") announced today that effective immediately the definitive agreement to sell Labtronix has been terminated. Accordingly, the special meeting of shareholders scheduled for December 28th, 2023 to vote on the sale of Labtronix, Inc. has been canceled.

Last week, Labtronix manufacturing location was visited by the fire department for a surprise inspection and was ordered to cease all extraction operations immediately until certain improvements are made to the facility. It is undetermined how long it will take to rectify this issue as it requires engineering and permitting through the City of Phoenix. In direct response to this infraction the License holder that Labtronix was operating under pulled the license from the building requiring all operations of Labtronix, Inc. to cease. The company is in discussions with the license holder to resolve the issue.

As a result of the aforementioned, the company received notification from the buyer, terminating the sale agreement.

About YourWay Cannabis Brands Inc.

YourWay was committed to redefining the way consumers and cannabis brands interact with the consumer. By building their own brands, partnering with others, they were dedicated to expanding their reach; remolding the cannabis industry and ultimately redefining how consumers and cannabis brands interact.

Website: www.yourwaycannabis.com

contact: [email protected]

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This news release may include "forward-looking information" as defined under applicable Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs, and current expectations of the Company with respect to future business activities and operating performance. Forward-looking information is 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 information.

The Company, through its subsidiaries, is involved in the manufacture, possession, use, sale, and distribution of cannabis in the United States. Local state laws where the Company operates permit such activities; however, investors should note there are significant legal restrictions and regulations that govern the cannabis industry in the United States. Cannabis remains illegal under federal law in the United States to cultivate, distribute or possess cannabis. Financial transactions involving proceeds generated by, or intended to promote, cannabis-related business activities may form the basis for prosecution under applicable federal money laundering legislation. The enforcement of federal laws in the United States is a significant risk to the business of the Company and any proceedings brought against the Company thereunder may adversely affect the Company's operations and financial performance.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/189974
Paid press release content from The Financial Capital. The StreetInsider.com news staff was not involved in its creation.

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Trading Multiple Markets from a Single Wallet: Users can access a diverse range of markets, including forex, cryptocurrencies, shares, indices, metals, and energies, all from a single integrated wallet. This feature simplifies portfolio management and enhances trading efficiency.

Users can access a diverse range of markets, including forex, cryptocurrencies, shares, indices, metals, and energies, all from a single integrated wallet. This feature simplifies portfolio management and enhances trading efficiency.



Easily Personalized and Customized: The platform offers extensive customization options, allowing traders to tailor their trading environment to their personal preferences and strategies. This personalization extends to layouts, charts, and analytical tools.

The platform offers extensive customization options, allowing traders to tailor their trading environment to their personal preferences and strategies. This personalization extends to layouts, charts, and analytical tools.



Seamless Tool Navigation: Call4Trade's platform is designed for ease of navigation, making it straightforward for traders to find and utilize various tools and features. This enhances the overall trading experience by minimizing the learning curve for new users and optimizing the process for experienced traders.

Call4Trade's platform is designed for ease of navigation, making it straightforward for traders to find and utilize various tools and features. This enhances the overall trading experience by minimizing the learning curve for new users and optimizing the process for experienced traders.



Trading from an App or from a Browser: Flexibility is key, and Call4Trade accommodates this by offering the ability to trade both through a dedicated app and directly from a web browser. This ensures that traders can stay connected to the markets and manage their positions, whether at home or on the move.

Call4Trade.com Review: Assessing the Trading Environment and Conditions

The trading environment and conditions offered by a broker can significantly influence a traders experience and success. In this section of our review, we focus on how this broker's trading environment is shaped by factors such as low pricing, fast withdrawals, and deep liquidity. These elements are crucial in creating a convenient and efficient trading atmosphere for users.

Low Pricing

Low pricing is a standout feature of Call4Trades trading environment. This aspect covers the costs associated with trading, including spreads, commissions, and any other fees. Lower trading costs can lead to significant savings over time, especially for active traders.

By offering competitive pricing structures, Call4Trade aims to provide an economical platform where traders can execute their strategies without being heavily burdened by high transaction costs.

Fast Withdrawals

The ease and speed of withdrawing funds are vital for a satisfying trading experience. Call4Trade places emphasis on ensuring that the withdrawal process is as smooth and rapid as possible.

This feature is particularly appreciated by traders who need quick access to their funds, whether for reinvesting in other opportunities or for personal use. A streamlined withdrawal process reflects positively on the brokers overall reliability and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Deep Liquidity

Deep liquidity is another critical aspect of Call4Trades trading environment. It refers to the broker's ability to provide sufficient market depth, allowing traders to execute large orders without significant impacts on price.

This is particularly important in fast-moving markets or during high volatility periods. Deep liquidity ensures tighter spreads and better pricing, which can be a significant advantage for all types of traders. By offering deep liquidity, Call4Trade facilitates a more stable and efficient trading environment where orders can be filled quickly and with minimal slippage.

Call4Trade.com Review: Evaluating Customer Support Services

The customer support team at Call4Trade is structured to offer prompt and efficient assistance to traders. One of the key strengths of their service is the rapid response time. Inquiries directed to the support team are typically answered within one hour, which is a commendable response time in the industry. This quick turnaround is crucial in addressing traders' concerns or problems without significant delay, ensuring that they can continue their trading activities with minimal interruption.

Accessibility is another important aspect of Call4Trades customer support. Traders can reach out to the support team via email or phone, providing convenient options to suit different preferences and needs. The availability of multiple contact methods ensures that traders can choose the most suitable way to communicate their issues or questions.

Furthermore, Call4Trades customer support operates 24/5, aligning with global trading hours. This continuous availability during the trading week is vital, as it ensures that traders can receive support whenever the markets are open. This round-the-clock service reflects the broker's commitment to providing accessible support, catering to the needs of traders across different time zones.

Call4Trade.com Review: Conclusion

In conclusion, this comprehensive Call4Trade.com review has delved into various facets of the broker's offerings, providing a detailed overview for potential and existing traders. Call4Trade has demonstrated a commitment to creating a trading environment that is accessible and efficient for a wide range of traders, from beginners to those with significant market experience.

The trading platform, with its user-friendly interface and advanced tools, caters to diverse trading needs and styles. Its flexibility in trading multiple markets from a single wallet and the ease of customization and navigation enhance the overall trading experience. Moreover, the mobile app and browser-based trading options ensure convenience and continuous market access.

The brokers assortment of trading tools, including risk management features, multiple chart options, and specified trading alerts, empowers traders to make informed decisions and effectively manage their trades. These tools play a critical role in shaping a trader's strategy and success in the markets.

Additionally, the trading environment at Call4Trade, marked by low pricing, fast withdrawals, and deep liquidity, contributes to a more streamlined and cost-effective trading experience. These aspects are crucial in a competitive trading landscape and can significantly impact a trader's profitability and satisfaction.

Disclaimer: The information in this article does not serve as a recommendation. Any actions or behaviors of the company during your interaction remain outside the author's responsibility. Ensure that you verify the details herein, as they may not be current or exact. Decisions you make based on this content rest on your shoulders only. This site offers no guarantees regarding its content, and any financial downturns experienced after trading or investments are outside our responsibility.

Contact Info:

Name: Media relation

Email: Send Email

Organization: Call4Trade

Website: https://call4trade.com/



Release ID: 89115398

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Perth-based dentist Dr. Johannes Yap encourages Australian patients to take note of 2023 End of Year Smile Reminder on Dental Benefits before they expire.



Dr. Yap emphasizes to both new and returning patients the significance of the calendar year structure for Health Insurance Dental Benefits in Australia. Essentially, regarding the benefits entitled in 2023, individuals have until the year's end to use their remaining dental benefits as most insurance providers do not permit the carryover of unused benefits into the new year.

Global statistics reveal that oral disease affects approximately 3.5 billion people, presenting a significant worldwide concern. Dr. Johannes Yap, the principal dentist at Odin House Dental, acknowledges this issue and emphasizes the importance of addressing oral health conditions before they escalate. According to Dr. Yap, "When selecting a dentist in the Perth area, our dental team at Odin House Dental offers a diverse range of options. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive, comfortable, and enjoyable dental experiences. Our mission is to preserve each patient's oral health while fostering a positive perception of dental visits." Furthermore, Odin House Dental ensures a holistic approach to dental care in a tranquil environment.

Dr. Yap urges individuals not to postpone the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle and good oral care until 2024. Taking immediate action is crucial to maximizing the coverage available through insurance plans.

Recognizing the busyness of the year-end, Odin House Dental introduces an End of Year Smile program that both new and returning patients can take advantage of.

Odin House Dental Surgery End of Year Smile Reminder

As we approach the end of the year, it's essential to note that health insurances in Australia operate on a calendar year basis. Consequently, certain benefits you may be entitled to could expire at year-end, including any unused dental benefits that won't carry over.

This year, Dr. Yap and the Odin House Dental team aim to assist Perth residents in maximizing their dental health benefits while prioritizing their oral hygiene. They are offering a complimentary Electric Toothbrush or Two (2) Movie Tickets to new or returning patients who schedule an appointment for a Check & Clean, a regular 6-month recall with a Scale and Polish, or commence outstanding treatment plans by Saturday, December 30, 2023 (terms and conditions apply; please call for details).

Dr. Yap is also extending special discounts on Invisalign and ZOOM Teeth Whitening through Smile Deals. These offers include a Free Smile Assessment with Dr. Yap, allowing patients to discuss the alignment of their teeth, facial aesthetics, and explore options like anti-wrinkle/filler use to enhance their smile.

To book an appointment, contact 0894687832 or visit Odin House Dental online.

About Us: Odin House Dental Surgery is a locally owned and operated dental office based in Innaloo, Western Australia. They offer routine check-ups, fillings, dental crowns and bridgework, and many other dental treatments. They have proudly served the Innaloo community for a number of years, providing advice for the best oral care that their patients deserve. They have after-hours appointments, and they are HBF, HFC, BUPA, and Medibank preferred providers. Their friendly staff are there to care for all of the patient's needs. For more information about Dr Johannes Yap and the services he provides, visit https://www.smiledocs.com.au/general-dentists/innaloo/dr-johannes-yap

Contact Info:

Name: Dr Johannes Yap

Email: Send Email

Organization: Odin House Dental Surgery

Address: 3/8 Odin Rd, Innaloo WA 6018

Phone: 08 9468 7832

Website: https://www.odindental.com.au/



Release ID: 89115319

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Milwaukee Doctor Scott Kamelle Gives Back With Scholarship Fund



Milwaukee, WI  In a bold move to support the next generation of medical professionals, Dr. Scott Kamelle, an esteemed Gynecologic Oncologist and former Director of Gyn Oncology at Aurora Health Care in Milwaukee, is proud to announce the inauguration of the "Dr. Scott Kamelle Scholarship for Future Doctors." This scholarship, with a one-time award of $1,000, aims to recognize and nurture the academic and professional pursuits of aspiring doctors who exhibit exceptional commitment to the field of medicine.

Criteria for Aspiring Scholars

To be considered for the Dr. Scott Kamelle Scholarship for Future Doctors, applicants must meet stringent criteria, including being a current undergraduate student actively pursuing a career in medicine or a high school student with plans to attend university for a medical degree. The scholarship values exceptional academic performance, a genuine passion for making a positive impact on patient lives, and a dedication to personal and professional growth within the medical field.

Applicants are required to submit a thoughtful essay of under 1000 words addressing a significant challenge faced by the healthcare industry, along with an innovative solution to address it effectively. The scholarship committee is particularly interested in candidates who demonstrate creative and resourceful problem-solving skills in tackling complex issues within the healthcare sector.

About Dr. Scott Kamelle

Dr. Scott Kamelle, a prominent figure in Gynecologic Oncology, has dedicated his career to providing exceptional care to women facing gynecologic cancers. A graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, and Boston University School of Medicine, Dr. Kamelle further specialized in Gynecologic Oncology through a fellowship at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.

Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Scott Kamelle has held esteemed positions, including practicing in Chicago before joining Aurora Health Care in 2007. His commitment to advancing healthcare systems and improving patient outcomes has been recognized through numerous awards and accolades, including being named a Top Doctor by Milwaukee Magazine and receiving the Faculty Teaching Award.

Driven by his passion for nurturing the next generation of medical professionals, Dr. Kamelle established the Scholarship for Future Doctors. This scholarship, with its one-time award, aims to empower and inspire aspiring doctors to make significant contributions to the field of medicine.

Application Details and Deadline

All eligible students who meet the specified criteria are encouraged to apply for the Dr. Scott Kamelle Scholarship for Future Doctors. The application deadline is January 15, 2024, and the winner will be announced on February 15, 2024.

For more information and to submit applications, please visit https://drscottkamellescholarship.com/.



Contact Info:

Name: Dr. Scott Kamelle

Email: Send Email

Organization: Dr. Scott Kamelle Scholarship

Website: https://drscottkamellescholarship.com



Release ID: 89115461

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Quan Capital and Partners Investment among new investors joining the Series A+ financing round led by Eight Roads

Additional $13 Million extends runway into 2025 and helps to accelerate development of portfolio programs

SAN DIEGO and SHANGHAI , Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Adcentrx Therapeutics ("Adcentrx"), a biotechnology company dedicated to revolutionizing Antibody-Drug Conjugate (ADC) therapeutics for cancer and other life-threatening diseases, today announced the extension of its Series A+ financing. The additional $13 million adds to the $38 million Series A+ round that was closed in April 2023 . The Series A+ extension included participation from Quan Capital and Partners Investment.

"We are pleased to announce the extension of our Series A+ financing round," said Hui Li , Ph.D., Founder and CEO of Adcentrx. "With the backing of our new investors, we are better positioned to accelerate the clinical development of our lead program, ADRX-0706, and progression of additional pipeline programs towards the clinic. This allows us to continue our mission of creating differentiated therapeutics to address cancer and other life-threatening diseases."

Lighthouse Capital acted as Adcentrx's financial advisor. The additional proceeds will be used by Adcentrx to continue advancing its propriety ADC therapeutic pipeline in the clinic.

About ADRX-0706

ADRX-0706 is an ADC product candidate discovered by Adcentrx. The antibody component targets Nectin-4, a cell surface adhesion protein over-expressed in multiple human cancers and associated with poor disease prognosis. The ADC is produced using Adcentrx's proprietary i-Conjugation technology and novel tubulin inhibitor payload, AP052, to generate an ADC with a drug-antibody ratio of eight (DAR 8). ADRX-0706 has a favorable pharmacokinetic and safety profile in preclinical models, and has demonstrated significant efficacy across a variety of tumor indications. ADRX-0706 is currently being evaluated in a Phase 1a/b clinical trial. For more information about the trial, please refer to the Study ID NCT06036121 on ClinicalTrials.gov.

About Adcentrx Therapeutics

Adcentrx is a biotechnology company focused on accelerating breakthroughs in protein conjugate therapeutic development for cancer and other life-threatening diseases. By combining the targeting precision of biologics and the disease fighting power of small molecule payloads, Adcentrx strives to develop next-generation targeted therapies for improving patient treatment options. Adcentrx has pioneered the development of an ADC technology toolbox addressing key components of protein conjugate design to solve challenges typically seen in ADCs.

For more information about Adcentrx and its innovative ADC technologies, please visit https://adcentrx.com.

About Quan Capital

Quan Capital is a life sciences venture capital firm with strong China expertise and global capabilities. The firm discovers, incubates and grows next-generation life science companies in early and growth stage, worldwide. Quan's portfolio companies pioneer differentiated therapies and enabling technologies to address major human diseases with high unmet medical needs. Quan has offices in Shanghai and Palo Alto . The firm's investment professionals combine their strong expertise in both science and business with their diverse experiences in global drug development and healthcare investments, and they leverage their broad network worldwide to help maximize the company's value across geographies and development stages.

Visit www.quancapital.com to learn more.

About Partners Investment

Partners Investment is a Seoul -based venture capital firm founded in 2000 investing in breakthrough technologies in healthcare and therapeutics globally. With cumulative $1 billion in assets under management, the firm is currently managing more than 50 portfolio companies in the US, China , Europe and Korea . Partners Investment was built upon the belief that the demand for improved health will always be paramount and that investing in healthcare innovations will benefit patients with unmet medical needs.

For more information about Partners Investment, please visit www.partnersi.co.kr/eng/

Contact Information:

Investor Relations

[email protected]

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SOURCE Adcentrx Therapeutics
AU President Sylvia Burwell and Dr. Murthy will honor more than 1,700 graduates on Dec. 17

WASHINGTON , Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The nation's 21st Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek H. Murthy , will deliver a keynote address at American University's two fall commencement ceremonies on Sunday, December 17, 2023 . As the Vice Admiral of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, Dr. Murthy commands a uniformed service of more than 6,000 dedicated public health officers, serving the most underserved and vulnerable populations domestically and abroad. Continuing the long tradition of AU commencement speakers who make an impact in their community and around the world, Dr. Murthy will engage AU's changemaking graduates as they embark on new adventures empowered by their unique AU education and experience.

Dr. Murthy's speech comes at a critical time as he just concluded his "We Are Made to Connect" College Tour and launched his 5-for-5 Connection Challenge, aimed at combating the loneliness epidemic and helping Americans build connection into their daily lives. Earlier this year, Dr. Murthy released the Surgeon General's Advisory on Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation , which warns of the profound mental and physical health risks that social disconnection poses, and the widespread nature of the issue. Supporting student thriving and mental health is a priority at American University and Dr. Murthy's work aligns with AU's ongoing engagement in student well-being, which includes the university's forthcoming Student Thriving Complex .

" Dr. Murthy and I served together at the Department of Health and Human Services during the Obama administration, so I know firsthand the dedication, skill, and compassion that drives his work as our nation's top doctor," said AU President Sylvia Burwell . "From his important work on the loneliness epidemic, and its impact on college-age youth in particular, to his service as a key advisor to President Biden's COVID-19 pandemic response operation, Dr. Murthy is a true changemaker who will inspire our graduates as they begin their own impactful pursuits."

"I am honored to celebrate this important milestone with American University's graduates this year," said U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy . "Commencement serves as a unique moment for graduates to reflect on the past and look forward to the future they want to build. As graduates begin their next chapter, I hope this time with peers, professors, and loved ones is filled with pride and joy."

Approximately 1,700 graduates will receive their degrees from all eight of AU's schools during ceremonies at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. in Bender Arena on the AU campus. Students will hear from fellow graduates at each of the ceremonies:

Ying Ting Yanie Wong , who is a double major, receiving her Bachelor of Science from the College of Arts and Sciences and the Kogod School of Business , already accepted a position as an accounting associate at PwC. Yanie fell in love with accounting by taking introductory courses at Kogod.

, who is a double major, receiving her Bachelor of Science from the and the , already accepted a position as an accounting associate at PwC. Yanie fell in love with accounting by taking introductory courses at Kogod. Brianna Starks , who will be awarded her Master of Arts from the School of Communication , originally thought of attending law school. Instead, she chose the School of Communication to help her launch a business focused on preparing people of color for careers in politics.

, who will be awarded her Master of Arts from the , originally thought of attending law school. Instead, she chose the to help her launch a business focused on preparing people of color for careers in politics. Daniella Olivares is receiving her Bachelor of Arts from the College of Arts and Sciences . Olivares wants to pursue a career in psychology and will encourage fellow graduates to embrace the unknown.

is receiving her Bachelor of Arts from the . Olivares wants to pursue a career in psychology and will encourage fellow graduates to embrace the unknown. Jermaine Gassaway , who is receiving his Master of Education, will speak at the second ceremony. Gassaway fell in love with teaching while working with Teach for America . His dream is to use the education he received at AU to ensure children in their home zip code have access to quality education.

This is American University's 146th commencement. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy joins other notable American University fall commencement speakers such as Thasunda Brown Duckett, president and chief executive officer of TIAA, Abby Phillip , CNN senior political correspondent and anchor of NewsNight, and Andrea Mitchell , host of MSNBC's Andrea Mitchell Reports.

ABOUT AMERICAN UNIVERSITY:

American University leverages the power and purpose of scholarship, learning, and community to impact our changing world. AU's faculty, students, staff, and alumni are changemakers who shape the future from sustainability to social justice to the sciences. Building on our 130-year history of education and research in the public interest, we say "Challenge Accepted" to addressing the world's pressing issues. Our Change Can't Wait comprehensive campaign creates transformative educational opportunities, advances research with impact, and builds stronger communities.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-university-fall-commencement-to-feature-surgeon-general-dr-vivek-h-murthy-302006804.html

SOURCE American University
GenCell Amongst 15 Startups to be Featured at the AWS Clean Energy Accelerator Innovation Showcase in Dubai

Rami Reshef , CEO GenCell: "GenCell's vision is to deliver GreenFSG  end-to-end, self-contained, zero-emission circular on-site power economies anywhere."

PETAH TIKVA, Israel , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GenCell Energy, (TASE: GNCL), a leading provider of hydrogen and ammonia to power solutions, announced today that the company will present at the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Clean Energy Accelerator (CEA) Innovation Showcase. GenCell will feature its innovative zero-emission, green-independent EV charging solutions and bold vision to enable GreenFSG circular energy economies. GenCell is proud to be a part of the efforts at the U.N. COP28 Climate Conference driving the investment in innovative hydrogen technologies to accelerate the transition to renewable energy.

In alignment with the mission of the AWS CEA to accelerate pathways to net zero and accelerate the energy transition, GenCell's CEO Rami Reshef will present GenCell's strategy for evolving and developing its Hydrogen2Power, Ammonia2Power and Water2Power technologies and solutions on the event's main stage. Focused on solving immediate real-world energy problems, today GenCell brings to the market solutions for zero-emission DC fast EV charging. The GenCell EVOX combines multiple power resources to charge EVs and other power loads sustainably, economically, and continuously.

Looking ahead to reach 2030 net-zero goals, GenCell envisions that our Water2Power technology which synthesizes green ammonia from only water, sun and air will introduce a revolutionary approach to producing and consuming clean energy anywhere. This new approach will create self-contained zero-emission circular economies that produce and store ammonia as fuel and subsequently extract hydrogen from the ammonia to generate power on-site, an approach we call GreenFSG.

Explains Rami Reshef , CEO GenCell, "Aiming to deliver end-to-end emission-free solutions at affordable costs that generate power anywhere, GenCell is inspired to be at COP28 to share knowledge with AWS and its clean energy community, together shaping the clean energy solutions that will combat climate change."

Also in the framework of COP28 , at the Women in Renewables Alliance (WiRA) Dubai Dialogue 2023 event, GenCell was honored to have our Communications Strategist and Cleantech Evangelist, Ms. Shelli Zargary, receive a 2023 IMPACT Campaigner Award in recognition of her efforts towards improving the gender-energy nexus and leveraging hydrogen technologies as a bridge towards regional cooperation driving peace, prosperity, and sustainability.

Explains Rami Reshef , CEO GenCell, "We are optimistic that COP28 will expand the role of hydrogen in the energy transition. The successful development of a global hydrogen economy will largely depend on increased demand from a wider pool of off-takers; GenCell's solutions are commercially available to support new off-takers and use cases in looking to utilize hydrogen to achieve their resilient and sustainable power objectives."

About GenCell

GenCell Energy (TASE: GNCL) develops GreenFSG power solutions based on reliable, zero-emission alkaline fuel cells, hydrogen, ammonia and water-to-power technologies that deliver uninterrupted power to help the world #SayNoToDiesel and transition to clean energy. The ability to produce not only clean power from GenCell's fuel cells, but also the green fuel on which the fuel cells run, sets GenCell in a far superior position as a well-to-wheel total green energy solution provider. GenCell delivers resilient, robust and weather-resistant backup power for utilities, telecom, EV charging and other mission-critical applications which have been deployed in 22 countries. Our ammonia-based hydrogen-on-demand solution provides primary power for off-grid and poor-grid sites, as well as for rural electrification. GenCell Energy numbers some 150 employees, including veterans of space and submarine projects. The Company is headquartered in Israel with a worldwide distribution and support network and retains unique intellectual property that includes patents, trade secrets and know-how.

Contacts:

Ariel Machtey

GenCell Energy

Tel: +972-54-6626416

[email protected]

www.gencellenergy.com

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SOURCE GenCell Energy
NEW YORK , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc. ("AWH" or the "Company") (CSE: AAWH.U) (OTCQX: AAWH), a multi-state, vertically integrated cannabis operator focused on bettering lives through cannabis, announced the opening of an Ascend Dispensary Outlet, located at 6019 Milan Road , Sandusky, Ohio . The dispensary will be Ascend's third in the state of Ohio and 33rd across its seven-state footprint.1

In 2022, AWH entered into a definitive agreement providing AWH the option to acquire 100% of the equity of Ohio Patient Access LLC ("OPA").2 In addition to the Sandusky provisional license, OPA owns and will operate two other provisionally licensed dispensaries that are in the process of being built in Cincinnati and Piqua . AWH will benefit from the economics under a support service agreement ("SSA") with OPA.3

The Sandusky dispensary will be open Monday to Thursday and Saturday from 9 am to 7pm ; Friday from 9 am to 8 pm ; and Sunday 10 am to 6 pm . The dispensary will offer medical products from seven point-of-sale (POS) terminals, accepting both cash and cashless ATM terminals for debit cards. Via Ascend's support agreement relationship with OPA, this is Ascend's first outlet store in the state offering everyday low pricing and discounts. Ascend prides itself on offering a wide range of products, including a variety of cannabis strains, edibles, tinctures, topicals, and other cannabis-infused products. The new dispensary will feature an extensive selection, ensuring that customers have access to the products that best suit their individual needs.

John Hartmann , Chief Executive Officer at Ascend Wellness Holdings, expressed his enthusiasm for this expansion: "With the opening of the Sandusky location, we are thrilled to expand access to high quality cannabis for patients in the Buckeye State . We are grateful for our partnership with the community and the opportunity to foster better living through cannabis. Ascend was pleased to see the citizens of Ohio vote in favor of adult-use on the 7th and are hopeful to bring recreational cannabis to this store and to the other Ohio dispensaries in the coming quarters. We are looking forward to further expanding our presence in Ohio with the expected openings of the Piqua and Cincinnati stores later this year. "

The location is equipped with ample parking, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors to the area. Patients must hold an active Ohio medical marijuana card to purchase medical cannabis products at the Sandusky dispensary.

Grand Opening Events

Ascend will be celebrating the opening of this dispensary with a special event. Attendees can expect educational sessions and giveaways to mark the occasion. For more on the grand opening, sign up for alerts online at www.letsascend.com.

About Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc.

AWH is a vertically integrated operator with assets in Illinois , Maryland , Massachusetts , Michigan , Ohio , New Jersey , and Pennsylvania. AWH owns and operates state-of-the-art cultivation facilities, growing award-winning strains and producing a curated selection of products for retail and wholesale customers. AWH produces and distributes its in-house Common Goods, Simply Herb, Ozone, Ozone Reserve, Tunnel Vision, and Royale branded products. For more information, visit www.awholdings.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes forward-looking information and statements, which may include, but are not limited to, the plans, intentions, expectations, estimates, and beliefs of the Company. Words such as "expects", "continue", "will", "anticipates" and "intends" or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information and statements. Without limiting the generality of the preceding statement, all statements in this press release relating to estimated and projected revenue, expectations regarding production capacity, anticipated capital expenditures, expansion, profit, product demand, margins, costs, cash flows, sources of capital, growth rates and future financial and operating results are forward-looking information and statements. We caution investors that any such forward-looking statements and information are based on the Company's current projections and expectations about future events and financial trends, the receipt of all required regulatory approvals, and on certain assumptions and analysis made by the Company in light of the experience of the Company and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors management believes are appropriate.

Forward-looking information and statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking information and statements herein. Such factors include, among others, the risks and uncertainties identified in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 , and in the Company's other reports and filings with the applicable Canadian securities regulators on its profile on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca and with the SEC on its profile on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking information and statements herein are reasonable, in light of the use of assumptions and the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in such information and statements, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, and accordingly readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such risks and uncertainties and should not place undue reliance upon such forward-looking information and statements. Any forward-looking information and statements herein are made as of the date hereof, and except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation and disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements herein or to update the reasons that actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in any forward looking information and statements herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the content of this news release.

________________________ 1 Effective once change of ownership occurs. 2 Subject to regulatory approval. 3 AWH has the future rights to ownership of both dispensaries, subject to regulatory approval.

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SOURCE Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc.
Sweet Paris Creperie Hosts Social Media Giveaway, Challenging the Winner to Find a Better Crepe in Paris, France

HOUSTON , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Get ready for the culinary adventure of a lifetime! Sweet Paris , renowned for its delectable sweet and savory crepes, is launching an extraordinary giveaway. One lucky winner and a guest will embark on an all-expenses-paid dream journey to the heart of Paris.

This lavish social media contest isn't just about enjoying the City of Light; it's a delicious mission. The prize? A six-night stay in a luxurious five-star hotel in Paris's vibrant center, round-trip airfare for two, and a generous $10,000 in spending money. The unique twist? The winners are on a quest to discover if any Parisian crepe can surpass the taste and quality of Sweet Paris Creperie & Cafe's creations.

Sweet Paris' luxurious Paris Trip Giveaway will take place on its Instagram page @sweetparis . The giveaway will open December 6 at 8:00 a.m. CST and close December 20 at 10:00 p.m. CST . To enter, participants must complete the following:

Follow @sweetparis on Instagram and like the giveaway post

on Instagram and like the giveaway post Tag two friends in the comments of the giveaway post

All tagged friends must follow @sweetparis on Instagram

on Instagram Sign up & become a member of the Sweet Passport Rewards Program

Each in-person purchase at any Sweet Paris location during the contest period scores you an extra entry, boosting your chances to win

Sweet Paris will select its winner by using a random generator and announce them on December 22 on its Instagram page, just in time for a holiday surprise. The winner is tasked with tasting and comparing the Parisian crepe with Sweet Paris' crepe. If the lucky winner finds a better tasting crepe in Paris , the brand will take it as a challenge to improve its own product. If Sweet Paris' crepe beats out the Parisian crepe, the brand and the giveaway winner will announce it on social media. For a complete list of rules and regulations for the contest, visit www.sweetparis.com/giveaway .

"We always look forward to this time of the year because we get to give away such an amazing opportunity," said Allison Chavez , Co-Founder of Sweet Paris. "This is the third year we've been able to give this trip away and we will continue to give back to the community we've built. Our team is excited to include this twist on the giveaway and cannot wait to see the results!"

Sweet Paris was founded in 2012 by Allison and Ivan Chavez , and has quickly become one of the hottest restaurant franchises in the country with its Instagram-worthy, French-inspired interiors and delicious food and drinks made of the highest quality ingredients and bold flavors. The duo met as undergraduate students at the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania and bonded over a love for crepes, soon making it their mission to "Revive the Art of Eating Crepes" and traveling the world in search of flavors and new ways to bring this popular street food to market. Made from scratch, the dishes are as delicious as they are beautiful.

"I've always dreamed of visiting Paris and experiencing the culture," said 2022 winner, Jese Foster . "I entered the giveaway, knowing there was no way I would win. My family and I had experienced some difficulties in 2021 and we weren't looking forward to the holidays. When I found out I won and announced the news to my family, the joy wasn't just about winning a trip; it was about injecting hope and confidence into a challenging year, knowing that brighter days were ahead. Sweet Paris didn't just provide us with a trip; they became partners in creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We will forever cherish the memories made in Paris and the kindness of the Sweet Paris staff."

For more information on Sweet Paris, please visit www.sweetparis.com .

ABOUT SWEET PARIS :

Sweet Paris Creperie & Cafe is a fast-growing restaurant franchise specializing in sweet and savory crepes, waffles, salads, hot drinks and more. On a mission to "Revive the Art of Eating Crepes" one creperie at a time, Sweet Paris is seeking qualified Strategic Partners, especially those with a background in hospitality, to expand the concept in new markets. For more information about the brand, please visit www.sweetparis.com , and for more information on Strategic Partnership Opportunities, visit www.sweetparisfranchise.com .

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SOURCE Sweet Paris
First Lady Jill Biden Joins Launch and Delivers Remarks

WASHINGTON , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Blue Star Families , the largest national non-profit dedicated to supporting military families and strengthening communities, and Hiring Our Heroes (HOH), the nation's leading non-profit helping veterans, military spouses, and transitioning service members find meaningful careers, convened to announce the launch of the 4+1 Commitment: The Formula for Military Spouse Success.

Blue Star Families and Hiring Our Heroes announced the 4+1 Commitment: The Formula for Military Spouse Success.

The two organizations are presenting the 4+1 Commitment , a first-of-its-kind, nationwide effort to tackle the 21% unemployment rate among military spouses. Dr. Jill Biden was in attendance and delivered remarks that spoke to the importance of supporting military families.

"We don't just need spouses to have jobs. We need them to be able to keep those jobs, and turn them into careers. Hiring our Heroes and Blue Star Families are asking for 1,000 companies to commit to retaining more spouses. It's ambitious, but together we can achieve it. And everyone in this room has a role in making this vision a reality," said First Lady Jill Biden at the event.

Military spouse unemployment and underemployment is creating critical challenges for the military. Military spouses have long faced unemployment rates much higher than their civilian counterparts due to the demands of the military lifestylea fact evidenced by the 21% unemployment rate faced by military spouses. Military families are being forced to live on a single income when most Americans are benefitting from two incomes to meet their familial needs. This lack of opportunity is putting military families in a tough position between continued service or looking for opportunities outside of service.

"The 4+1 Commitment is the missing piece in the puzzle of solving the military spouse unemployment crisis," said Kathy Roth-Douquet, co-founder and CEO of Blue Star Families. "We're proud to present this initiative with Hiring Our Heroes and in partnership with the Department of Defense's Military Spouse Employment Partnership, and are excited to expand our work bringing together the public, private, and non-government sectors together to create meaningful solutions."

The 4+1 Commitment asks employers in all sectors to adopt at least one military-spouse-friendly employment policy, plus consider joining an existing government spouse employment program.

Facilitate job transferability Offer remote or telework Offer flexible work hours Provide paid Permanent Change of Station (PCS) leave

+1 : Consider joining an existing government spouse employment program

"America is at its best when the private and public sectors work together to meet the needs of our military community," said Eric Eversole, President of Hiring Our Heroes. "The 4+1 commitment does exactly that! It encourages private and public sector partners to adopt policies to empower military spouses as they search for meaningful career opportunities."

The 4+1 Commitment: The Formula for Military Spouse Success is a scalable, actionable, and effective way for companies to commit to addressing and improving military spouse employment outcomes by committing to make at least one of four policy changes. Launched in partnership with the Department of Defense's Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP), original signatories include Starbucks, T-Mobile, PenFed Credit Union, Telemynd, USAA, Nextdoor, Navy Federal Credit Union, Comcast NBCUniversal, First Command Financial Services, and Booz Allen Hamilton. The goal is to have 1,000 signatories by the end of 2024. The commitment is a part of the Blue Star Families' Do Your Part initiative, made possible by craig newmark philanthropies.

"Every day, Starbucks works to contribute positively to every community we serve and we know Veterans and military spouses make our company and our communities stronger. Starbucks is proud to build on its decade-long commitment to serving the military community by expanding our longtime partnership with Blue Star Families. As a founding partner of the Do Your Part coalition, Starbucks will continue to prioritize comprehensive, industry-leading benefits to better support Veterans, military spouses and their families," said AJ Jones, II, Starbucks evp & chief communications officer.

To learn more about the 4+1 Commitment, please visit https://bluestarfam.org/4plus1/ .

About Blue Star Families

Blue Star Families is the nation's largest grass-roots military family support organization, with a mission to support military families to improve military readiness. Its distinctive approach builds stronger communities around military families through knowledge and programs that address the unique needs of those who serve. Blue Star Families' nationally recognized surveys and analysis give military families an important voice that informs policymakers and its military family programs. It uses the power of its collective resources and cross-sector collaborations to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of thousands of members of military families to strengthen the troops, their families, and our nation as a whole. For more information please visit bluestarfam.org.

About Hiring Our Heroes

Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) is a 501(c)(3) organization under the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The non-profit launched in March 2011 as a nationwide initiative to help veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses find meaningful employment. Working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's vast network of state and local chambers and other strategic partners from the public, private and nonprofit sectors, Hiring Our Heroes has helped hundreds of thousands of veterans and military spouses find meaningful employment through its comprehensive training and hiring events, fellowship programs, and online tools. HOH programs and services are available in all 50 states, Puerto Rico , the District of Columbia , and on military installations around the world. For more information on programming and initiatives: HiringOurHeroes.org; @HiringOurHeroes on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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SOURCE Blue Star Families
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom have discussed the current state and future directions of economic cooperation, Trend reports.

According to the Azerbaijani Ministry of Economy, Azerbaijani Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov met with UK Minister of State for Exports Malcolm Offord.

Jabbarov emphasized that the development of relations and expansion of ties between the countries in various sectors of the economy.

"Azerbaijan carries out effective trade and investment cooperation with the UK. The United Kingdom is the largest investor in our country," he said.

The British delegation was informed about measures and results realized in the country in the field of the creation of renewable energy sources, as well as cooperation initiatives in the field of 'green' energy. It was noted that SOCAR has made a voluntary commitment to reduce the level of methane emissions, and the importance of the working group established between the Ministry of Economy of Azerbaijan and the British Chamber of Commerce in expanding the economic partnership between the countries was emphasized.

Offord emphasized the desire of the United Kingdom to further develop trade and economic ties with Azerbaijan and pointed out opportunities for the implementation of joint initiatives and establishing cooperation in new spheres.

The meeting discussed the organization of an investment forum to be held in London next year, the promotion of joint activities in the field of energy and decarbonization, and support for initiatives in the spheres of export, investment, and trade.

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Fund II represents a 15% increase in funds and a near-doubling of the Canapi Alliance from firm's Fund I



WASHINGTON and NEW YORK and WILMINGTON, N.C., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Canapi Ventures ("Canapi"), the fintech venture capital fund backed by nearly 70 financial institutions and strategic investors across the United States , today announced the raise of a $750 million Fund II. Canapi is backed by the Canapi Alliance, the fund's unique network of strategic banks and financial partners institutions across North America , as well as institutional investors. This latest raise brings Canapi's total assets under management to over $1.4B and will allow the Fund to continue to support the most innovative entrepreneurs and companies looking to create a sounder, more inclusive and equitable financial ecosystem.

Core to Canapi's value proposition is the delivery of best-in-class financial and strategic returns to its Alliance. In Fund I, Canapi made 20 investments across key verticals, including fraud and identity, financial infrastructure, lending and credit, payments, and real estate technology. As part of these investments, Canapi has helped to facilitate nearly 100 partnerships between its LPs and portfolio companies  including such names as Alloy, Built, Thoropass, and Greenlight. Canapi estimates that this has delivered some $40 million in annualized revenue and supported the creation of nearly 1,500 new jobs in the fintech and financial services industry.

In Fund II, Canapi will maintain this considered strategy and support these key industries, while broadening its investment aperture to include additional opportunities and challenges facing the financial industry and other industries. This includes the responsible use and governance of AI, cybersecurity, and the intersection of financial services and climate technology. To that end, Canapi has made a handful of investments out of Fund II in companies such as DynamoFL, Island, and Crux Climate.

"Our venture capital model connects high-quality fintech companies to our extensive network of banks and strategic partners, creating strong symbiotic value in this important ecosystem," said Canapi Managing Partner, Gene Ludwig . "Our connectivity in Washington and to its regulators has allowed us to help our companies better understand and comply with complex requirements while building alongside founders to maximize impact." Canapi Managing Partner Chip Mahan added, "We're proud to work shoulder to shoulder with our teams, helping them to best serve their customers and their customers' customers."

Canapi will continue to invest in companies across stages, partnering with founders as early as ideation and continuing to provide value throughout a company's lifecycle. The Fund has grown its platform team to include business development and talent professionals who collaborate with portfolio companies on key strategic imperatives. Canapi prides itself on doubling and tripling down on talented founders; to date, the fund has led eight companies through two or more funding rounds, and has participated in 100% of follow-on opportunities. Canapi also seeks to back diverse leaders who reflect the increasingly heterogenous financial landscape; to that end, 61% of C-suite members or founders in Canapi's portfolio are either minorities, women, or veterans.

"Canapi has been an invaluable partner for Alloy. Canapi pitched us on their ability to bring banking and regulatory expertise to the boardroom and to increase the quantity and quality of our banking pipeline," said Tommy Nicholas , co-founder and CEO of Alloy. "They have over-delivered on this promise, becoming one of our top lead generation sources and most trusted advisors. If you have a chance to get Canapi on your cap table, you have to take it!"

Canapi has also expanded its team and geographic footprint with the announcement of Fund II. The team  which has more than doubled in size since announcing Fund I  now has offices in New York City , led by General Partner Jeff Reitman , as well as San Francisco , led by General Partner Tom Davis .

"With decades worth of financial services experience, we provide our stakeholders with the knowledge and expertise they need to identify emerging innovations within the bank and fintech ecosystems. We're proud to deliver not only financial returns to our LPs, but also strategic value that is transforming the fintech and financial services industry," said Canapi President and General Partner Walker Forehand .

"Fintech is broader than ever, and financial services permeate the whole economy," said General Partner Neil Underwood . "Every founder should have a fintech expert in their corner."

About Canapi Ventures

Canapi is a financial technology venture platform investing in early to growth-stage companies offering disruptive alternatives to outdated business models and technologies. Backed by the Canapi Alliance  a network of nearly 70 of the leading financial institutions across the United States  Canapi's partners have decades of hands-on experience in financial services. Bringing unmatched sector experience and best-in-class sector knowledge, connections, and credibility, Canapi is positioned to help founders win.

Media contact

Inkhouse for Canapi

[email protected]

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SOURCE Canapi Ventures
CHICAGO , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CannMenus , a Chicago -based cannabis retail analytics firm, and Nugget, a Canadian cannabis insights leader, have joined forces to further their goal of reshaping the way businesses and consumers interact with cannabis data. The merger consolidates two players within the canna-tech space to create an unparalleled source of retail insights covering over 90% of all licensed dispensaries across the U.S. and Canada .

"In the highly competitive arena of legal cannabis, the ability to make data-informed decisions remains critical to success. Our core vision has always been to enable businesses and consumers alike to harness the power of real-time data. This merger brings us one step closer to achieving that goal on a widespread scale," states Vib Gupta , CannMenus' Co-Founder and CEO.

It's this vision that spurred the creation of the CannMenus consumer product search interface as well as their robust BI SaaS platform that affords industry operators up-to-the-minute market analytics  a far cry from next-day or next month insights provided by legacy data firms within the industry.

Darcy McQuaid , former CEO of Nugget and the newly appointed CRO of CannMenus, expressed, "Through this merger, we're harnessing the best from both management teams, unlocking sustained cost efficiencies, and driving long-term growth. I want to extend my appreciation to our dedicated employees, steadfast investors, and our valued clients  whose trust and support have paved the way for this significant milestone."

CannMenus is also pleased to welcome David Schachter as the new Chief Strategy Officer of the company. David brings extensive startup and cannabis industry expertise, having previously served as the Head of Sales and Business Development for Sprout CRM (Acquired by Weedmaps).

About CannMenus

CannMenus, founded by seasoned software engineers Vibhav Gupta , Jonathon Carlyon , and David Adams , offers a powerful suite of tools that allows industry players to monitor retail sales, bolster inventory management, prospect for new accounts, and explore market-level trends to inform operational strategies. With up-to-the-minute insights, it's the only same-day business intelligence platform with widespread coverage across every legal U.S. and Canadian territory currently available within the cannabis space.

CannMenus.com also offers a comprehensive universal dispensary menu search engine for cannabis products, offering consumers a seamless way to explore and compare offerings from various e-commerce providers. Dubbed "Kayak.com for cannabis," CannMenus simplifies the search process, catering to those looking to make informed purchasing decisions quickly and effortlessly.

About Nugget

Nugget Data is a cannabis technology platform founded by industry veterans Darcy McQuaid , Mackenzie Ferguson , Jake Crow , and Dylan Carter . The platform offers retailers and brands powerful tools to stay ahead of the competition. Nugget empowers clients to make informed decisions based on market trends with its user-friendly interface and comprehensive insights.

For further information, please reach out to:

David Schachter

Chief Strategy Officer

[email protected]

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SOURCE CannMenus
Winners of 17 Awards Have Announced

BEIJING , Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The grand event, "Employer Branding Creativity Awards 2023," was hosted by the Employer Branding Institute, with the esteemed business publication 'Business Week/Chinese Edition' serving as a strategic media partner. Lockin China, a recruitment platform specializing in overseas talents, joined as a strategic partner, and the campus multimedia advertising platform, Xiaoguo, became a strategic campus media partner. The awards ceremony took place on November 9th, 2023 in Beijing .

The 2023 Employer Branding Creativity Awards received over an eight-month period with 1,214 creative entries from 489 domestic firms and foreign companies operating in China , including Mercedes-Benz, Bosch, Jaguar Land Rover, McDonald's China , IKEA, Tencent, AIA, H&M, IHG and so on. The event, divided into four phases, initiation, registration, evaluation and selection of winners, was launched in March this year by Employer Branding Institute, a global networking and learning platform for HR professionals to share insights and industry best practices among peers.

Following a strict evaluation process based on four general metrics, content management, creative design, communications strategy and user experience, in addition to one metric specific to each company, 50 companies with 104 creative entries were selected to become the winners of 17 awards in three categories for their outstanding leadership and achievements in terms of employer branding.

Ms. Fu Haiyang , the Dean of the Employer Branding Institute and Founder of Wild Theory, remarked, "As we celebrate the 7th year of the Employer Branding Creativity Awards in 2023, this milestone coincides with businesses adapting to the new market environment post-pandemic. It's heartening to witness numerous companies dedicating significant time and effort to employer branding management, achieving remarkable results. The importance of employer brand development for executing a company's talent strategy cannot be overstated. Talent competitiveness remains at the core of overall company competitiveness. Despite evolving circumstances, companies should persist in effective employer brand management. Industrial digitization, rapid technological advancements, and global expansion pose new challenges for employer brand development. Yet, for employer branding practitioners, this signifies an unprecedented opportunity. Collaboration, resource utilization, and innovative best practices are key. Let's showcase the power of Chinese employer branding globally, bringing transformation and innovation to the industry!"

These awards recognize the top-level creative employer brands. As one of the most authoritative and trusted events in the industry, the 2023 Employer Branding Creativity Awards showed Chinese companies the power of employer branding and helped expand the visibility of best employers while promoting the award winners. We look forward to more excellent employers to participate in the future and jointly show the powerful power of employer brand to the Chinese workplace!

About Employer Branding Institute

Employer Branding Institute is a global networking and learning platform for HR professionals to share insights and industry best practices among peers. This institute aims to transform employer branding from a concept to an actionable goal in order to help organizations develop a world-class employer brand. It also leverages on intelligent data to provide organizations with accurate insights into future trends and analyses the performance of employer branding campaigns.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Ms. Ocean Fu

Tel: +86 138 1641 9074

Email: ocean.fu@ebwings.com

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SOURCE Employer Branding Institute
DALLAS , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Former 'The Wonder Years' TV icon and bestselling author Danica McKellar joined Bill Abbott , President & CEO, Great American Media as the pair feted media and advertisers on an elegant night out near company headquarters in Dallas to celebrate the success of Great American Family being the fastest-growing cable TV network in all of 2023. McKellar is celebrating the success of her original movies for Great American Family, including the recent World Premiere of "A Royal Date for Christmas." Abbott's holiday presents include his new cable network becoming a leading contender in the Christmas genre with 21 original holiday films (second only to Hallmark) and a growing library of quality original family-friendly content for linear on Great American Family and streaming at Great American Pure Flix.

ACTRESS DANICA MCKELLAR AND GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY CHIEF BILL ABBOTT CELEBRATE HOLIDAY MILESTONES

About the year's whirlwind success, Danica McKellar said, "Starting off on the Wonder years, I have had the pleasure of doing projects that are truly good natured and wholesome, and I feel like I got to continue that in large part had to do with this guy, Bill Abbott , first on the Hallmark Channel, and now of course I followed him to Great American Family Channel. These movies make you feel good. They're about a simpler time almost. It shows you the best in human nature, these movies. And what makes them so good and so needed is that they don't have any real bad guys. No one's taking advantage of each other. It's people who are in earnest trying to make their way through life. And people say, oh, these movies are such a great escape. Yes, they are an escape, but I believe they're more than that because they model aspirational behavior and you feel so good while you're watching them and that feeling lasts. I think that we're actually making a good impact on the world."

Viewers wishing for a stocking-filled with sweet movie gifts can TEXT CHRISTMAS to 877-999-1225 to locate their local channel.

Media Contacts:

Pam Slay , 818.415.3784

and

[email protected]

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY

Great American Family is America's premiere destination for quality family-friendly programming, including original holiday movies, rom-coms and fan-favorite series that celebrate faith, family, and country. Great American Family is home to year-round seasonal celebrations including Great American Christmas, the network's signature franchise featuring holiday themed movies and specials. Founded in 2021, Great American Family is part of the Great American Media portfolio of brands. Follow Great American Family on Twitter: @GAfamilyTV Facebook: @GAfamilytv Instagram: @gactv

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SOURCE Great American Family
OREGON , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Citizenly , a company developing a social platform for politics and civic engagement, has released a beta version of the data portion of its platform. Initially restricted to residents of Oregon , users will be able to find all of the elected officials who represent them at the federal, state, and local level. Users can also conduct comprehensive searches among all of Oregon's 6,000+ elected officials.

In its first release, Citizenly has pre-populated all elected officials in Oregon along with key information about each. Residents of Oregon can sign up for free and gain access to information about their elected government officials and candidates, matched to their address.

Elected official data will constitute Citizenly's first product among several. "We were surprised to learn that nobody has ever compiled a complete, accurate, and continuously updated database of every politician in the country, from the President down to every small city council, local school board, and rural special district," said John Horton , Citizenly's CEO and founder. "We've aggregated all of that data, and we're pleased to make the Oregon portion available in beta, pending a national release," Horton said that there are free and paid versions of accounts for accessing the data.

Ongoing enhancements will be made during the early release of the platform based on feedback from the public and country officials in Oregon , where the platform has launched.

The company says that its mission is to improve the experience of being a citizen, and toward that end is developing a social platform built on relationship mapping between members of the public and their elected officials, political candidates, and government agencies. Developing accurate, well-organized and continuously updated data is the first step in these long-term plans.

About Citizenly

Citizenly's mission is to improve the experiences of being a citizen and public servant. Long-term, the company is building a platform to better connect citizens with government officials, candidates, agencies, and each other. As a first step, Citizenly is building the world's most comprehensive database of every elected official and candidate in the country, from the President down to every school board official, with multiple data fields. By mapping every residential address to each official and candidate, Citizenly offers the world's most accurate set of constituency and political data. For more information, visit citizenly.com.

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SOURCE Citizenly
PRESQUE ISLE, Maine , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On Monday, December 4 th, Presque Isle -based PNM Construction began renovations on NMCC campus to convert Penobscot Hall into a new childcare center. The first five weeks of the project are dedicated to demolition and safely removing heating systems, electrical conduit, and outdated sprinkler systems. PNM will work on the building's interior through the winter and plans to begin site excavations and concrete work in the spring when the snow melts.

"This is an exciting week on NM campus. We've fundraised and planned for this project since 2021, and the community has stepped up to support us on more than one occasion," stated NMCC President Tim Crowley . "We're happy to be working with a local contractor, and plan to provide community updates as the project proceeds."

At the September 27 thMaine Community College System (MCCS) Board of Trustees meeting on NMCC campus, the board approved a resolution authorizing the funds raised to build the childcare center. On Friday, October 6 th, the College closed the construction bidding process and reviewed submissions. The winning proposal came from commercial construction firm PNM Construction of Presque Isle .

The campus-based childcare center will be designed to serve 47 children, from birth to eight years of age. NMCC students and staff will have priority enrollment for their children; secondary priority will go to UMPI students who need childcare, and the remaining capacity will be available to the community.

A licensed local provider will operate the facility and the selection process for that partner will begin in the coming months. Since the new center will be operated by a local provider, it will be an enhancement of the current services in Central Aroostook .

This initiative is made possible through combined funds from NMCC, The NMCC Foundation, the Maine State Legislature, and a grant from The Rodney & Mary Barton Smith Family Foundation.

The Center will serve as a "lab school" in support of the NMCC's early childhood education program which offers both a two-year associate degree and a one-year certificate-level option. The on-campus childcare center will provide an appropriate setting for the ECE majors to obtain the 450 field-experience hours required for the State of Maine Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. The College has added an additional faculty member in response to the growing interest in the ECE program.

For more information, please visit nmcc.edu or follow NMCC on Facebook or Instagram. To explore NMCC's 30+ programs, please contact Admissions at (207) 768-2785.

About Northern Maine Community College: Founded in 1961, NMCC is an accredited two-year public community college located in Presque Isle, Maine . The College is committed to excellence in learning and offers over 30 innovative associate degree and certificate-level programs both online and in-person. NMCC is one of seven colleges in the Maine Community College System. To learn more: visit www.nmcc.edu or call NMCC Admissions at 207-768-2785.

Media Contact: Griffin Goins

Dean of Development & Public Affairs

Phone: 207-768-2809

Email: [email protected]

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SOURCE Northern Maine Community College
CTEK to Display Performance Products

CHICAGO , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CTEK, a leading global brand in battery management solutions, will return to the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show in Indianapolis this week in booth #4506. Following the success of exhibiting in 2022, CTEK will once again display its performance products at the PRI Show, the premier motorsports trade show.

"Last year, we were proud to introduce the motorsports industry to CTEK's innovations to keep their race cars running at peak performance," said Bobbie DuMelle, President of CTEK North America. "CTEK products can alleviate the worry of race teams by keeping their race cars and powersport vehicles running."

CTEK will display its complete line-up of battery products for all 12 Volt batteries, including lithium, that can extend the battery life and maximize battery and vehicle performance. Race and powersport vehicles are often stored for long periods of time, and a battery can lose its charge while stored. For the best performance possible, race and powersport vehicles needs to be in top condition including the battery.

"Many racers are on tight budgets, and their vehicles aren't driven on a daily basis," added DuMelle. "CTEK products can help them save money while ensuring their racecars start when it's most critical, on the racetrack."

The CT5 POWERSPORT ensures racers are ready for action every time. With dedicated programs for lead-acid and lithium batteries, racers can get the best performance out of their vehicle batteries whether on land, water, snow, or ice. The CT5 POWERSPORT has been designed specifically to charge and maintain powersport batteries using advanced technology to give three fully automatic charging and maintenance programs  Normal: for all lead-acid batteries, including AGM, and all 12V LiFePO4 batteries. If required, the CT5 Powersport can be connected directly to the battery indefinitely, it will not over or undercharge. The CT5 POWERSPORT battery charger provides peace of mind that the battery is charged to capacity and ready to go.

On the track, the CTEK four-in-one CS FREE portable charger enables charging on-the-go. The multi-functional CS FREE celebrates the growing complexity of in-vehicle technologies by providing four cutting-edge products in one portable unit: Adaptive Boost safe start, battery charger, smart maintainer, and hi-tech power bank. Unlike traditional booster cables, the award-winning CS FREE uses revolutionary Adaptive Boost technology to gently and safely give a dead battery a boost to start within just 15 minutes which is great insurance for the starting line.

"We were thrilled with the amount of interest in CTEK at the PRI Show in 2022," said DuMelle. "We know the 2023 Show will be even more successful." We are excited to see more CTEK chargers in the racetrack pits."

Stop by booth #4506 or visit www.smartercharger.com for more information.

About CTEK

Established in Dalarna, Sweden , CTEK is the leading global brand in battery charging solutions, most specifically vehicle charging. CTEK offers products ranging from 12V and 24V battery chargers to charging solutions for electrical vehicles. CTEK's E-mobility solutions range from individual EV chargers to larger corporate and commercial installations with multiple charging stations that require load balancing and integrate seamlessly with monitoring and payment equipment. CTEK's products are sold via a carefully selected network of global distributors and retailers: as original equipment; supplied to more than 50 of the world's leading vehicle manufacturers; and through charge point operators, property owners and other organizations/individuals providing EV charging infrastructure. CTEK takes pride in its unique culture based on a passion for innovation and a deep commitment to supporting the transition to a greener mobility, by adhering to industry leading ESG standards.

Press Contact:

Michelle Suzuki

310-444-7115

http://www.smartercharger.com

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SOURCE CTEK
Consistently innovative in their approach, Chicago Scots will use the donation to fund an extensive campaign to realign its mission to meet future needs of seniors

CHICAGO , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chicago Scots, Illinois' first and oldest non-profit organization, has received a foundational $14 million gift from The Negaunee Foundation to launch a program to meet the future unmet needs of Chicago's senior population.

The largest donation in the organization's 178-year history, it enables the Chicago Scots to begin a campaign to boldly transform its legacy building, the Scottish Home at Caledonia Senior Living & Memory Care , in North Riverside into a model of living that relieves the social distress of aging.

"In just a few years there will be many millions of older Americans without the wealth to pay for long-term care as it is currently configured but with too much to qualify for government support," said Gus Noble , President and CEO.

"They are the 'forgotten middle.' They will want to live collaboratively in community with others, to be connected and not isolated, to be social and not lonely. The Negaunee Foundation's incredible gift will empower us to relieve distress caused by aging  medical, cognitive, and social."

The baby-boomer generation, now estimated to number 73 million, is rapidly aging and by 2030 all will have turned 65. Many are likely to face the human and financial costs of social isolation, which are already massive and set to increase.

The National Academies of Science, Engineering & Medicine report that social isolation poses a health risk to seniors equivalent to high blood pressure, smoking or obesity. A November 2023 study by Glasgow University reported that seniors who lack social connection with family and friends have a 39% increased risk of dying early.

"Chicago Scots will realign its mission to provide for future unmet needs of seniors in Chicago ," said Charles Gonzalez , Chair of the Chicago Scots Board of Governors. "Our mission will be made manifest in a model of living designed to connect people through comprehensive, high-touch care based on community and companionship."

Chicago Scots own and operate the five-acre Caledonia Senior Living & Memory Care community as its principal charitable purpose based around the 114-year-old Scottish Home and seven-year-old MacLean House just 15 minutes from downtown Chicago .

Chicago Scots will collaborate with the Alford Group on its transformation plans. "Time and again throughout their long history, Chicago Scots have positioned and repositioned themselves to be relevant in the field of care. I am honored to bring the expertise of the Alford Group to support Gus and the Board as they bring this innovative realignment of purpose to reality," said the Alford Group's Don Cooke .

The Negaunee Foundation is a Chicago non-profit foundation that supports cultural, historical, educational institutions and museums, along with performing arts organizations in Chicagoland.

"The Negaunee Foundation enables and encourages all of us in the Scottish community, the field of senior care, throughout Chicagoland, and across the country  kith and kin  to dream together," said Gus Noble .

About Chicago Scots

Founded as the Illinois Saint Andrew Society in 1845, when Chicago was a small frontier town, population 12,000, the Chicago Scots is the first and longest running charitable organization in Illinois . Chicago Scots is the only non-profit of its kind in the world, authentically rooted in Scottish traditions, values and community, while providing excellent senior care across a full continuum of service. In addition to preserving and strengthening the enduring bonds of friendship between Scotland and North America by hosting events that educate, entertain, and promote Scottish culture, the Chicago Scots support one of the finest senior living and memory care campuses in greater Chicagoland  Caledonia Senior Living & Memory Care in North Riverside, IL. Purposeful and proactive in the approach, the Chicago Scots are consistently on the cutting-edge of care for the residents of Caledonia Senior Living, where there was not a single resident COVID fatality during the pandemic. For more information, visit www.chicagoscots.org .

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SOURCE Chicago Scots
To commence operation by 2027with max. 400K liters of plasma production capacity per annum

The first step towards localization of Indonesia's critical medical product

YONGIN, South Korea , Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GC Biopharma, a South Korean biopharmaceutical company, announced on December 6 th that it has participated in the groundbreaking ceremony of a plasma fractionation plant held at Jababeka Industrial Estate in Indonesia , one of the company's overseas plant construction projects.

Backed by the Indonesian government's proactive support, the groundbreaking for what will become the nation's first-ever plasma fractionation plant was held after only 6 months following the Indonesian government's decision to approve the construction by GC Biopharma in June.

Eun-chul Huh, CEO of GC Biopharma, and Chung-Gwon Park , Representative Director of GC EM, took part in the ceremony organized by the Ministry of Health of Indonesia with the participation of 150 or so high-profile Indonesian government officials, including Budi Gunadi Sadikin , Minister of Health, H. Muhammad Jusuf Kalla , Chairman of the Indonesian Red Cross Society and Soo-deok Park , Deputy head of mission of the republic of Korea ..

The plant will be built on a 40-thousand-m2 land within the Jababeka Industrial Estate located 35km east from the nation's capital city of Jakarta . With the maximum capacity of 400 thousand liters of plasma fractionation a year, the plant aims to commence operation by 2027.

Since Indonesia has been relying 100% on the imported plasma-derived products, the groundbreaking for the plant marks the onset of local production journey of the nation's critical medical product, to which many government officials showed strong support by participating in the ceremony.

In his congratulatory remarks at the ceremony, Eun-chul Huh, CEO of GC Biopharma, said, "GC Biopharma is particularly honored and pleased to have the opportunity to participate in this first step towards the long-cherished and historic project of localizing the production of plasma-derived products in Indonesia . Looking beyond the successfully completion of the plant construction, GC Biopharma will continue to further expand our collaboration on and support for the advancement of the Indonesian healthcare industry."

GC Biopharma has obtained approval for the construction and technology transfer of plasma fractionation plant from the Indonesian government in June this year and signed an MOU with the Indonesian Red Cross and a local pharmaceutical company for the project.

In fact, GC Biopharma is the only company worldwide that has completed the construction of plasma-derived products plant in the overseas market. Since its first export of blood products plant to Thailand as a Korean drugmaker, GC Biopharma has been accumulating expertise and knowhow in overseas plant construction through successful projects in various countries including China and Canada .

About GC Biopharma

GC Biopharma (formerly known as Green Cross Corporation) is a biopharmaceutical company that delivers life-saving and life-sustaining protein therapeutics and vaccines. Headquartered in Yongin, South Korea , GC Biopharma is one of the leading plasma protein and vaccine product manufacturers globally and has been dedicated to quality healthcare solutions for more than half a century.

This press release may contain biopharmaceuticals in forward-looking statements, which express the current beliefs and expectations of GC Biopharma's management. Such statements do not represent any guarantee by GC Biopharma or its management of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. GC Biopharma undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement contained in this press release or any other forward-looking statements it may make, except as required by law or stock exchange rule.

GC Biopharma Contacts (Media)

Seunghyun Baek

[email protected]

Sohee Kim

[email protected]

Yelin Jun

[email protected]

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SOURCE GC Biopharma
VANCOUVER, BC , Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Gold Royalty Corp. ("Gold Royalty" or the "Company") (NYSE American: GROY) is pleased to announce that it has entered into agreements with Borborema Inc. ("Borborema Inc."),a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aura Minerals Inc. ("Aura"), to provide $31 million in project financing (the "Borborema Investment") to develop the Borborema gold project in Rio Grande do Norte State, Brazil ("Borborema Project"). Pursuant to the transaction, Gold Royalty will acquire a 2% net smelter return ("NSR") royalty (the "Royalty") on Borborema from a subsidiary of Aura for cash consideration of $21 million and will provide additional project financing to Aura's subsidiary as lender under a royalty-convertible gold-linked loan in the amount of $10 million (the "Gold-Linked Loan"). All amounts are expressed in U.S. dollars unless otherwise noted.

In connection with the Borborema Investment, the Company has received commitments from Queen's Road Capital Investment Ltd. ("QRC") and Taurus Mining Royalty Fund L.P., a fund managed by Taurus Funds Management Pty Limited (collectively, "Taurus") to complete a private placement (the "Offering") of $40 million aggregate principal amount of unsecured convertible debentures (the "Debentures").

David Garofalo , Chairman and CEO of Gold Royalty, commented: "We are thrilled to secure a royalty over the Borborema gold project, and partner with Aura, a diversified mine operator in the Americas , in creating a mutually beneficial structure. The Aura team has a proven track-record of building mines in Brazil and we look forward to their team advancing the construction of the Borborema Project and bringing the asset into production. We are also pleased to have the support of QRC and Taurus as part of this transaction. Both of these institutional investors are leading financiers to the global resources sector, and their strategic investment further validates the value-accretive transactions we are executing at Gold Royalty as part of our long-stated growth strategy."

Transaction Highlights

Near Term Cash Flow and Low Risk Transaction Structure: The Borborema Investment is structured to provide Gold Royalty immediate cash flows through pre-production payments under the Royalty and gold-based payments under the Gold-Linked Loan expected to contribute a combined 1,440 gold equivalent ounces (" GEOs ") per year to Gold Royalty with growing cash flow coming from the 2.0% NSR royalty once the Borborema Project enters production, which Aura has disclosed is currently expected in early 2025.

is structured to provide immediate cash flows through pre-production payments under the Royalty and gold-based payments under the Gold-Linked Loan expected to contribute a combined 1,440 gold equivalent ounces (" ") per year to with growing cash flow coming from the 2.0% NSR royalty once the enters production, which Aura has disclosed is currently expected in early 2025. Convertible Gold-Linked Loan to Aura Provides Optionality to Exploration Success: Gold Royalty has retained the option to convert the Gold-Linked Loan into an incremental 0.5% NSR upon maturity to benefit from potential exploration success and expansion at the Borborema Project .

has retained the option to convert the Gold-Linked Loan into an incremental 0.5% NSR upon maturity to benefit from potential exploration success and expansion at the . Experienced Team with Track Record of Delivery: The Aura team recently completed the successful construction of the Almas mine on budget and on schedule in just 16 months. That team is now shifting their focus to the Borborema Project with construction expected to start later this year.

The Aura team recently completed the successful construction of the Almas mine on budget and on schedule in just 16 months. That team is now shifting their focus to the with construction expected to start later this year. Strategic Convertible Debenture Financing: The $40 million unsecured convertible debenture financing adds long-term strategic partners to support the continued accretive growth of the Company, with proceeds expected to be used to fund the Borborema Investment and reduce the amount outstanding under the Company's existing secured revolving credit facility.

Key Borborema Investment Terms

$21 Million NSR Royalty Investment:

Upfront Payment: $21.0 million in cash upon closing of the transaction.

in cash upon closing of the transaction. Royalty Terms: Gold Royalty will retain a 2.0% NSR royalty over the Borborema Project .

will retain a 2.0% NSR royalty over the . Stepdown: The Royalty will decrease to a 0.5% NSR royalty after 725,000 ounces of payable gold are produced from the Borborema Project .

The Royalty will decrease to a 0.5% NSR royalty after 725,000 ounces of payable gold are produced from the . Buyback Option: The remaining 0.5% NSR will be subject to a $2.5 million buyback at Aura's option exercisable by Borborema Inc. after the earlier of 2,250,000 ounces of payable gold being produced at the Borborema Project or 2050.

The remaining 0.5% NSR will be subject to a buyback at Aura's option exercisable by after the earlier of 2,250,000 ounces of payable gold being produced at the or 2050. Pre-production Payments: Borborema Inc. will make quarterly payments to Gold Royalty of 250 ounces of gold (1,000 ounces per year). The pre-production payments will cease upon the earlier of: Commencement of commercial production at the Borborema Project, being the mine achieving 75% of its planned mill throughput of 2,000,000 metric tonnes per year on average for 60 consecutive days; or 10 years from the closing of the transaction.

will make quarterly payments to of 250 ounces of gold (1,000 ounces per year). The pre-production payments will cease upon the earlier of:

$10 million Royalty-Convertible Gold-Linked Loan:

Loan Principal: $10.0 million on closing of the transaction.

on closing of the transaction. Maturity: The Gold-Linked Loan will mature 6 years from closing of the transaction.

The Gold-Linked Loan will mature 6 years from closing of the transaction. Quarterly Interest Payments: Quarterly coupon payments of 110 ounces of gold (440 ounces per year). Coupon payments can be made via cash settlement or physical delivery of gold.

Quarterly coupon payments of 110 ounces of gold (440 ounces per year). Coupon payments can be made via cash settlement or physical delivery of gold. Conversion: Upon maturity, Gold Royalty has the option to be: repaid $10 million cash; or repaid $5 million cash, plus a 0.5% NSR royalty over the Borborema Project .

Upon maturity, has the option to be: Buyback Option upon Conversion: In the event that Gold Royalty elects to retain a 0.5% NSR upon Conversion, the resulting 0.5% NSR will be subject to a $2.5 million buyback at Aura's option after the earlier of 2,250,000 ounces of payable gold being produced at the Borborema Project or 2050.

The Gold-Linked Loan will be secured against certain mining concessions relating to the Borborema Project and a pledge of the shares of the Borborema Project operating entity, with the Company's interests thereunder subordinated to senior project financing lenders. The Gold-Linked Loan is also guaranteed by Aura.

ESG Co-Investment Contribution:

Upon commercial production at Borborema Project, Gold Royalty will provide Borborema Inc. a rebate of $30 per gold equivalent ounce payable from the Royalty. These funds are earmarked for ESG related investments by Borborema Inc. , up to a maximum of $300,000 .

Completion of the Borborema Investment is subject to customary conditions and is currently expected to close in December 2023 .

Convertible Debenture Private Placement

Under the terms of the Offering, QRC and Taurus have committed to subscribe for $30 million and $10 million of Debentures, respectively. The Debentures will be unsecured and carry a 10% coupon (the "Interest") over a 5-year term, of which 70% (equal to 7% per annum) is payable in cash and 30% (equal to 3% per annum) is payable in Common Shares issuable at a price equal to the 20-day volume-weighted average trading price ("VWAP") calculated at each interest payment date.

The Debentures will be convertible at the holder's option into Common Shares at a conversion price of $1.90 , equal to a 30% premium to the 20-day VWAP at the date of this announcement.

The Company will be entitled to redeem the Debentures at par within a period of fourteen days from the third anniversary of the date of the issuance of the Debentures. Should the Company exercise its right to redeem the Debentures during this period, the holders are entitled to convert all of the outstanding Debentures into Common Shares at a conversion price of US$1.75 , equal to a 20% premium to the 20-day VWAP at the date of this announcement.

Proceeds from the Financing will be used to fund the Borborema Royalty and Loan acquisition, as well as paying down portions of the Company's existing credit facility.

In connection with the Offering, the Company and each of the subscribers will enter into an investor rights agreement (the "Investor Rights Agreement") which include customary standstill and voting covenants.

The Offering is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including, among other things, receipt of applicable stock exchange approval and the absence of certain material adverse changes.

The Offering will be considered to be a "related party transaction" for purposes of Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101") as QRC is a company whose chairman and CEO, Warren Gilman , is also a director of the Company. A material change report respecting the Offering will be filed less than 21 days before the expected closing date of the Offering as the Company plans to complete the Offering upon satisfaction of the conditions thereto.

The Offering will be exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements available under MI 61-101, as neither the fair market value of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the Offering, insofar as it involves related parties, exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization. The terms of the Offering have been reviewed and approved by the Company's independent directors and approved unanimously by its board of directors, with Mr. Gilman abstaining as a result of his relationship to QRC.

About Borborema

The Borborema Project is located in the Serido region, Rio Grande do Norte State, northeast Brazil . The Borborema Project consists of three mining concessions covering a total area of 29 km2.

On August 30 2023 , Aura announced the completion of a Feasibility Study on the Borborema Project, which outlined the Borborema Project as an open-pit gold mine with anticipated production of 748,000 ounces of gold over an initial 11.3-year mine life, with potential additional production upside. On October 10 , and October 18, 2023 , Aura announced, among other things, that construction commenced at the Borborema Project and that it currently expects construction to be complete in early 2025 with commercial production in Q3 2025.

For further information regarding the Borborema Project, please refer to the technical report titled "Feasibility Study Technical Report (NI 43-101) for the Borborema Gold Project, Currais Novos Municipality, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil " with an effective date of August 30, 2023 (the "Borborema Technical Report") prepared for Aura and available under its profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Investor Webcast

An investor webcast will be held on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 11:00 am ET ( 8:00am am PT) to discuss this transaction. Management will be providing an overview of the transaction terms and its benefits to the Company. The presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session where participants will be able to ask any questions they may have of management.

To register for the investor webcast, please click the link below: https://www.bigmarker.com/vid-conferences/GoldRoyaltyCorp-Webcast

A replay of the webcast will be available on the Gold Royalty website following the presentation.

About Gold Royalty Corp.

Gold Royalty Corp. is a gold-focused royalty company offering creative financing solutions to the metals and mining industry. Its mission is to invest in high-quality, sustainable, and responsible mining operations to build a diversified portfolio of precious metals royalty and streaming interests that generate superior long-term returns for our shareholders. Gold Royalty's diversified portfolio currently consists primarily of net smelter return royalties on gold properties located in the Americas .

Qualified Person

Alastair Still, P.Geo ., Director of Technical Services of the Company, is a "qualified person" as such term is defined under Canadian National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") and has reviewed and approved the technical information disclosed in this news release.

Notice to Investors

Except where otherwise stated, the disclosure in this press release relating to the Borborema Gold Project has been derived from the Borborema Technical Report and other public information disclosed by the operator and has not been independently verified by the Company. Specifically, Gold Royalty has limited, if any, access to the property subject to the royalty. Although Gold Royalty does not have any knowledge that such information may not be accurate, there can be no assurance that such third-party information is complete or accurate.

Unless otherwise indicated, the technical and scientific disclosure contained or referenced in this news release, including any references to mineral resources or mineral reserves, was prepared by the project operators in accordance with NI 43-101, which differs significantly from the requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission applicable to domestic issuers. Accordingly, the scientific and technical information contained or referenced in this news release may not be comparable to similar information made public by U.S. companies subject to the reporting and disclosure requirements of the SEC.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information:

Certain of the information contained in this news release constitutes 'forward-looking information' and 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws ("forward-looking statements") which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance and achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied therein. Forward-looking statements, which are all statements other than statements of historical fact, include, but are not limited to, statements respecting the expected completion of the Borborema Investment and the Offering, Aura's disclosed expectations and plans respecting Borborema and the expected benefits to Gold Royalty of the Borborema Investment. Forward-looking statements are based upon certain assumptions and other important factors, including assumptions relating to the ability of the parties to the Borborema Investment and the Offering to satisfy the conditions to such respective transactions, the ability of Aura to achieve expected milestones and plans relating to Borborema, commodities prices, the projects underlying the Company's royalty interests and the business of the Company. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements including, among others, risks related to the ability of the parties to the Borborema Investment and the Offering to complete such respective transactions, risks related to the operators of the projects in which the Company holds interests, including operational risks associated with mine development, risks related to exploration, development, permitting, infrastructure, operating or technical difficulties on any such projects, the influence of macroeconomic developments, the ability of the Company to carry out its growth plans and other factors set forth in the Company's Annual Report on Form 20-F and its other publicly filed documents under its profiles at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

Non-IFRS Measures

The Company has included, in this document, certain performance measures, including GEOs which is a non-IFRS measures. The presentation of this non-IFRS measure is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. These non-IFRS measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS, and other companies may calculate these measures differently. GEOs in this document are related to pre-production payments and gold linked coupon payments, with each of these payments being based on the equivalent market value of gold over the payment period.

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SOURCE Gold Royalty Corp.
Press Release

December 6, 2023 Senate adopts resolution recognizing RP-Norway cooperation The Senate on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 adopted a resolution recognizing the enduring amity and cooperation between the the Philippines and the Kingdom of Norway, and commemorating the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. Senate Resolution No. 852, filed by Sen. Win Gatchalian, was unanimously adopted. The resolution took note the long history of cooperation between the two countries "which has expanded beyond the maritime sector and into the energy sector, extractive industries like oil and gas, aquaculture, IT services, telecommunications, academic exchanges, social security, labor, migration, and peace and reconciliation efforts. The Philippines and Norway established formal diplomatic relations on March 2,1948, with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Norway being established in Manila in 1967 and the Philippine Embassy in Norway being established in Oslo in 2007. The resolution stated that for over 100 years the two countries established maritime cooperation, part of which is the establishment of the Norwegian Shipowners' Association (NSA) Cadet program, with the objective of developing Filipino maritime professionals through scholarship grants. "The Norwegian Training Center (NTC) in Manila has produced almost 6,000 cadets and the NSA in Oslo has provided scholarships to Filipinos and employed NTC graduates in Norwegian ships," the resolution stated. As of October 2022, there are already over 25,000 Filipino seafarers working aboard Norwegian ships or in shipyards, accounting for a third of all seafarers on Norwegian-controlled vessels. Currently, the Philippines-Norway Business Council (PNBC) has around 50 member-companies and institutions, with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Norway being a founding member and permanent observer in the PNBC board. Over the years, there has been a growing interest among Norwegian companies in investing in industrial enterprises and in the renewable energy sector in the Philippines. The Norwegian Government Pension Fund-Global also holds shares in several Philippine companies. As of January 2023, there are almost 28,000 Filipinos living in Norway and part of its labor workforce. Similarly, a substantial number of Norwegians are living in the Philippines and are engaged in business or doing charitable work, the resolution stated. Norway continues to support the peace process in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and sits as the Vice-Chair of the Independent Decommissioning Body in charge of post-conflict decommissioning efforts of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants. Norway is also the third-party facilitator of peace negotiations between the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and has been part of the International Monitoring Team maintaining the ceasefire between the Philippine government and the MILF in Mindanao. Norway, it can be noted, was instrumental in the recent efforts to resume the peace talks between the administration of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and the NDFP, the political arm of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). The diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Norway have resulted in several important agreements, to help contribute in economic growth of both countries. "Whereas, the continuing mutual cooperation and friendship between the Philippines and Norway have contributed to the promotion of diplomatic relations and growth, especially in the maritime sector, as well as in peace and reconciliation efforts," the resolution further stated.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. The VI meeting of the Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the UK and Northern Ireland will be held in Baku on December 7, Trend reports.

The meeting will discuss cooperation between the two countries in business, energy transition, healthcare, infrastructure, information and communication technologies, cybersecurity, digital economy and other spheres.

The commission is co-chaired by Azerbaijani Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov and UK Minister of State for Exports Malcolm Offord.
ROCKVILLE, Md. and SUZHOU, China , Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Innovent Biologics, Inc. ("Innovent") (HKEX: 01801), a world-class biopharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures and commercializes high quality medicines for the treatment of oncology, autoimmune, metabolic, ophthalmology and other major diseases, announced the interim analysis results of ORIENT-16, the Phase 3 study evaluating sintilimab in combination with chemotherapy compared to chemotherapy for the first-line treatment of advanced or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction (G/GEJ) adenocarcinoma was published in The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA, IF=120.7). ORIENT-16 the first immunotherapy Phase 3 study published in JAMA for the first-line treatment of gastric cancer, as well as the first immunotherapy Phase 3 in Chinese patients for the first-line treatment of gastric cancer.

Gastric cancer is one of the most common malignant tumor types globally and nearly half of all cases are diagnosed in China[i]. Advanced gastric cancer generally has very poor prognosis with high unmet medical need. ORIENT-16 demonstrated that sintilimab plus chemotherapy significantly prolongs overall survival in the first line treatment for overall population of gastric cancer. Based on the results of ORIENT-16, sintilimab is recommended by the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO) guidelines for the first-line treatment of gastric cancer. It is also the first and only PD-1 inhibitor included in national reimbursement drug list (NRDL) for the first-line treatment of gastric cancer.

ORIENT-16 has met its primary endpoint at the prespecified interim analysis. Sintilimab in combination with chemotherapy demonstrated superior and clinical meaningful overall survival (OS) benefit, compared with placebo plus chemotherapy in all randomized patients as well as patients with CPS 5 . Detailed interim analysis results were published in JAMA.

Interim analysis (cut-off date June 20, 2021 , median follow-up 18.8 month) showed that, sintilimab in combination with chemotherapy significantly reduced the risk of death in all randomized patients (HR 0.77, 95%CI 0.63-0.94, p=0.009) and in patients with CPS 5 (HR 0.66, 95%CI 0.50-0.86, p=0.002) , successfully reached the prespecified superiority criteria. Median overall survival (mOS) has been prolonged by 2.9months (mOS 15.2mo vs. 12.3mo) in all randomized patients, and 5.5 months (mOS 18.4mo vs. 12.9mo) in patients with CPS 5, respectively. In addition, OS benefits were consistent in all prespecified subgroups. The safety profile of sintilimab in this study was consistent with that observed in previously reported studies of sintilimab, and no additional safety signals were identified for the combination of sintilimab and chemotherapy in GC patients.

Furthermore, prespecified final analysis results of ORIENT-16 has been published at the AACR (American Association for Cancer Research) Annual Meeting. Final analysis (with additional 15-month follow-up) indicated that OS benefits of sintilimab plus chemotherapy have become more evident in overall population and in patients with CPS 5 compared with that of interim analysis, further confirming sintilimab plus chemotherapy as a standard of care of 1L treatment for G/GEJ adenocarcinoma.

Final analysis (cut-off date September 2, 2022 , median follow-up 33.9 mo) showed that, sintilimab in combination with chemotherapy significantly reduced the risk of death in all randomized patients (HR 0.68, 95% CI: 0.57-0.81; P

Based on the study results of ORIENT-16, sintilimab in combination with chemotherapy was approved by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China as first-line treatment for G/GEJ in June 2022 , and was included in the national reimbursement drug list (NRDL), becoming the first and only immunotherapy for gastric cancer covered by NRDL in China .

The principal investigator of the ORIENT-16 study, Prof. Jianming Xu from the Fifth Medical Center of People's Liberation Army General Hospital, stated, "ORIENT-16 is the first phase 3 trial in China to demonstrate a significant overall survival benefit in patients with advanced G/GEJ cancer treated with anti-PD-1 antibody plus chemotherapy in first line setting. The study has met its primary endpoint in the prespecified interim result analysis, and its final analysis demonstrated the OS benefit of sintilimab plus chemotherapy in overall population and in patients with CPS 5 compared with chemotherapy alone. ORIENT-16 confirms sintilimab plus chemotherapy as an important new treatment option and a standard of care of first line treatment for G/GEJ adenocarcinoma."

Dr. Zhou Hui , Senior Vice President of Innovent, stated, "The treatment options for advanced G/GEJ cancer are relatively limited and the ORIENT-16 study aimed to address this urgent unmet medical need. ORIENT-16 is the first randomized controlled Phase 3 study in China to demonstrate that PD-1 in combination with chemotherapy significantly prolongs overall survival in overall population of first line treatment for G/GEJ adenocarcinoma. The publication in JAMA further confirms its huge clinical value of the ORIENT-16 study. We are grateful for all the contributions made by every investigator and patient in this study. Up until now, sintilimab is the only PD-1 inhibitor in China approved and included in NRDL for the first-line treatment of five major types of cancer  non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer, squamous non-small cell lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, and gastric cancer. Sintilimab is also the first and only immunotherapy for gastric cancer covered by NRDL. We hope this novel immunotherapy to benefit a wider group of cancer patients."

About the ORIENT-16 Study

ORIENT-16 is a randomized, double-blind, multicenter Phase 3 clinical study evaluating sintilimab in combination with chemotherapy, compared to placebo in combination with chemotherapy, for the first-line treatment of unresectable, locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03745170). The primary endpoint was overall survival, in all randomized and in PD-L1 positive patients.

About Gastric Cancer

Gastric cancer is one of the most common malignant tumor types worldwide. According to GLOBOCAN estimates, there were approximately one million new cases and 769,000 new deaths of gastric cancer in 2020, making it the fifth most common cancer and third leading cause of cancer death globallyi[ii]. About half of all gastric cancer cases occurred in East Asia , mainly in China i. The first-line treatment of advanced gastric cancer remains limited. Currently, the 5-year survival rate of advanced or metastatic gastric cancer ranges from 5 to 20 percent. The median survival was about 1 year for patients who received chemotherapy only[iii][iv].

About Sintilimab

Sintilimab, marketed as TYVYT (sintilimab injection) in China , is a PD-1 immunoglobulin G4 monoclonal antibody co-developed by Innovent and Eli Lilly and Company. Sintilimab is a type of immunoglobulin G4 monoclonal antibody, which binds to PD-1 molecules on the surface of T-cells, blocks the PD-1 / PD-Ligand 1 (PD-L1) pathway, and reactivates T-cells to kill cancer cells[v]. Innovent is currently conducting more than 20 clinical studies of sintilimab to evaluate its safety and efficacy in a wide variety of cancer indications, including more than 10 registrational or pivotal clinical trials.

In China , sintilimab has been approved for seven indications and included in the National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) for six indications. The updated NRDL reimbursement scope of TYVYT (sintilimab injection) include:

For the treatment of unresectable locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma;

For the treatment of unresectable locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma;

For the treatment of unresectable locally advanced or metastatic non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer lacking EGFR or ALK driver gene mutations;

For the treatment of unresectable locally advanced or metastatic squamous non-small cell lung cancer;

For the treatment of unresectable or metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma with no prior systematic treatment;

For the treatment of relapsed or refractory classic Hodgkin's lymphoma after two lines or later of systemic chemotherapy.

Additionally, sintilimab has been approved in combination with bevacizumab and chemotherapy (pemetrexed and cisplatin) for the treatment of patients with EGFR-mutated nsqNSCLC who progressed after EGFR-TKI therapy.

Besides, two clinical studies of sintilimab have met their primary endpoints:

Phase 2 study of sintilimab monotherapy as second-line treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma;

Phase 3 study of sintilimab monotherapy as second-line treatment for squamous NSCLC with disease progression following platinum-based chemotherapy.

Statement: Innovent does not recommend the use of any unapproved drugs/indications.

About Innovent

Inspired by the spirit of "Start with Integrity, Succeed through Action," Innovent's mission is to discover and develop, manufacture and commercialize high-quality biopharmaceutical products that are affordable to ordinary people. Established in 2011, Innovent is committed to discovering and developing, manufacturing and commercializing high-quality innovative medicines for the treatment of oncology, autoimmune, cardiovascular and metabolic, and ophthalmology diseases to enhance the quality of the patients' lives. Innovent has 10 products in the market, including TYVYT (Sintilimab Injection), BYVASDA (Bevacizumab Injection), SULINNO (Adalimumab Injection), HALPRYZA (Rituximab Injection), Pemazyre (Pemigatinib Oral Inhibitor), olverembatinib, Cyramza (Ramucirumab Injection), Retsevmo (Selpercatinib Capsules ), FUCASO (Equecabtagene Autoleucel Injection) and SINTBILO (Tafolecimab Injection). Additionally, we have 2 NDA under NMPA review, 5 assets in Phase III or pivotal clinical trials, and 19 more molecules in early clinical stage.

Innovent has also entered into 30 strategic collaborations with Eli Lilly, Roche, Sanofi, Adimab, Incyte, MD Anderson Cancer Center and other international partners. We strive to work with many collaborators to help advance the biopharmaceutical industry, improve drug availability and enhance the quality of the patients' lives.

Note:

TYVYT (sintilimab injection) is not an approved product in the United States .

BYVASDA (bevacizumab biosimilar injection), SULINNO, and HALPRYZA (rituximab biosimilar injection) are not approved products in the United States .

TYVYT (sintilimab injection, Innovent)

BYVASDA (bevacizumab biosimilar injection, Innovent)

HALPRYZA (rituximab biosimilar injection, Innovent)

SULINNO (adalimumab biosimilar injection, Innovent)

Pemazyre (pemigatinib oral inhibitor, Incyte Corporation). Pemazyre was discovered by Incyte Corporation and licensed to Innovent for development and commercialization in Mainland China, Hong Kong , Macau and Taiwan .

CYRAMZA (ramucirumab, Eli Lilly). Cyramza was discovered by Eli Lilly and licensed to Innovent for commercialization in Mainland China.

Retsevmo (selpercatinib, Eli Lilly). Retsevmo was discovered by Eli Lilly and licensed to Innovent for commercialization in Mainland China.

Disclaimer: Innovent does not recommend any off-label usage.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. The words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend" and similar expressions, as they relate to Innovent, are intended to identify certain of such forward-looking statements. Innovent does not intend to update these forward-looking statements regularly.

These forward-looking statements are based on the existing beliefs, assumptions, expectations, estimates, projections and understandings of the management of Innovent with respect to future events at the time these statements are made. These statements are not a guarantee of future developments and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond Innovent's control and are difficult to predict. Consequently, actual results may differ materially from information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of future changes or developments in our business, Innovent's competitive environment and political, economic, legal and social conditions.

Innovent, the Directors and the employees of Innovent assume (a) no obligation to correct or update the forward-looking statements contained in this site; and (b) no liability in the event that any of the forward-looking statements does not materialize or turn out to be incorrect.

[i] Sung H, Ferlay J, Siegel RL, et al. Global Cancer Statistics 2020: GLOBOCAN Estimates of Incidence and Mortality Worldwide for 36 Cancers in 185 Countries. CA Cancer J Clin. 2021; 71(3): 209-249. [ii] Fuchs CS, Shitara K, Di Bartolomeo M, et al. Ramucirumab with cisplatin and fluoropyrimidine as first-line therapy in patients with metastatic gastric or junctional adenocarcinoma (RAINFALL): a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial. Lancet Oncol. 2019; 20(3): 420-435. [iii] Wang H, Guo W, Hu Y, et al. Superiority of the 8th edition of the TNM staging system for predicting overall survival in gastric cancer: Comparative analysis of the 7th and 8th editions in a monoinstitutional cohort[J]. Molecular and Clinical Oncology, 2018, 9(4): 423-431. [iv] Price TJ, Shapiro JD, Segelov E, Karapetis CS, Pavlakis N, Van Cutsem E, Shah MA, Kang YK, Tebbutt NC. Management of advanced gastric cancer. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2012 Apr;6(2):199-208; quiz 209. doi: 10.1586/egh.11.103. PMID: 22375525.

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SOURCE Innovent Biologics
New Bill Would Implement Reforms to Protect Consumers

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Predatory towing practices in Florida have long been a source of frustration and anger for residents and visitors alike. The state has gained notoriety for towing companies that seem to prey on unsuspecting vehicle owners, often engaging in questionable tactics to maximize their profits. This issue has prompted numerous complaints, legal battles, and calls for reform to protect consumers from the clutches of unscrupulous towing operators. The National Insurance Crime Bureau, the nation's leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to combatting and preventing insurance crime, is helping lead the way to combat these predatory towing practices in the Sunshine State and recently took part in a transportation committee hearing in the Florida House of Representatives focused on this issue.

Insurers Combat Predatory Towing Practices in Florida - New Bill Would Implement Reforms to Protect Consumers

"Once a vehicle is towed, the financial burden on the owner can be substantial," said Eric De Campos , Director of Strategy, Policy and Government Affairs for the National Insurance Crime Bureau. "Towing fees, storage fees, and administrative charges quickly accumulate, creating a financial strain on individuals who have had their vehicle towed without their consent. These fees are often disproportionately high and may not accurately reflect the cost of the towing service. Fee transparency is a critical way to address this issue. Without a fee schedule in place and accessible to consumers, unscrupulous towers can charge tens of thousands of dollars for routine tows or simply for sweeping glass and vehicle fluid from the ground and billing for a hazmat cleanup."

The lack of clear rate sheets and conspicuous signage is another common complaint. Florida law requires property owners to display signs that provide clear information about parking restrictions and the potential for towing. However, some towing companies have been accused of either placing signs in inconspicuous locations or not providing adequate information to vehicle owners about the consequences of parking in a particular area. This lack of transparency can result in individuals unwittingly parking in areas where towing is enforced, only to return and find their vehicle gone.

"In addition, consumers need to know upfront what to expect in terms of towing and storage fees," De Campos said. "That is why it is important to require towers to provide their rate sheets to consumers upon request and post signage at their places of business that identify all applicable fees. This is a practice done in other states like Kentucky and could be implemented in Florida as a consumer protection against surprise or inflated fees."

In response to these concerns, there are efforts underway to regulate the towing industry in Florida more effectively. Advocates for consumer rights and fair business practices have called for stricter oversight, increased transparency, and clearer regulations regarding towing practices. Florida State Representative Melony M. Bell (R- Fort Meade ) is currently sponsoring legislation (HB 179) that would address several of these issues. "There is a real need for comprehensive reform to protect consumers from unfair and exploitative practices. Until meaningful reform is enacted, individuals in Florida will remain vulnerable to the pitfalls of predatory towing, with the potential for financial hardship and emotional distress looming over every parking decision," said Rep. Bell .

ABOUT THE NATIONAL INSURANCE CRIME BUREAU: Headquartered in Des Plaines, Ill. , the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) is the nation's leading not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to combatting and preventing insurance crime through Intelligence, Analytics, and Operations; Education and Crime Prevention; and Strategy, Policy, and Advocacy. NICB membership includes more than 1,200 property-casualty insurance companies, vehicle rental companies, auto auctions, vehicle finance companies and self-insured organizations. NICB member companies wrote over $582 billion in insurance premiums in 2021, or more than 82% of the nation's property-casualty insurance. That includes more than 96% of the nation's personal auto insurance. To learn more, visit www.nicb.org

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SOURCE National Insurance Crime Bureau
The Hands-Free Footwear Innovator Fuels Retail and Wholesale Expansion as Revolver Capacity is Increased to $25 Million

LINDON, Utah , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kizik, the leading footwear company known for its innovative hands-free designs, is pleased to announce the successful amendment of its credit facility with JPMorgan Chase.

The amended credit facility provides Kizik with enhanced financial flexibility and positions the company for continued fast-paced growth into new distribution channels, including company-owned retail stores, U.S. wholesale, and international markets. The amendment increases Kizik's revolver capacity from $10 million to $25 million , with the potential to further expand to $50 million during the term of the agreement.

Monte Deere , Kizik's CEO, expressed gratitude for JPMorgan Chase's continued support: "This amended credit facility is a testament to the strong and collaborative relationship we have built with JPMorgan Chase. It not only reflects our business strategy and financial performance but also empowers us to pursue new opportunities as we make hands-free footwear available to more people in more places."

JPMorgan Chase echoes this sentiment. "We're proud to work with Kizik on this amended credit facility and support the company's continued growth as an innovator in the hands-free footwear space," said Leo Gutierrez , Utah Market Executive for JPMorgan Chase's Middle Market Banking & Specialized Industries business.

With the expanded credit facility in place, Kizik looks forward to a future of accelerated growth and continued innovation as the leader of hands-free footwear.

Based in Lindon, Utah , Kizik is the industry's leading hands-free footwear brand, boasting more than 180 pending and granted patents. Powered by relentless innovation, Kizik is a catalyst for endless momentum, using hands-free footwear to propel consumers' frictionless freedom to go, see, do, and exploreto find the magic in motion. Offering stylish silhouettes for men, women, and kids, Kizik's hands-free footwear truly is for everyone. To learn more, visit kizik.com and follow @wearkizik.

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SOURCE Kizik
Agreement Aligns with and Strengthens Lummus' Commitment to Decarbonizing Its Technology Portfolio, Including Proprietary Equipment

HOUSTON , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lummus Technology announced it has signed a Strategic Supply Agreement with NET Power Inc. (NYSE: NPWR) ("NET Power") to design and supply recuperative heat exchangers ("HXR") for NET Power's near-zero emissions power generation process. The HXR recovers energy from the turboexpander exhaust and air separation unit to reheat recirculated CO 2 , making it one of the most important equipment components in the NET Power Cycle.

"Lummus is proud to partner with NET Power, which has developed a way to efficiently and effectively produce electricity that is clean and economical," said Leon de Bruyn , President and Chief Executive Officer, Lummus Technology. "The NET Power Cycle system combines seamlessly with our advanced heat exchanger technology to minimize energy consumption and carbon emissions. We look forward to working with NET Power to deliver low carbon power and help them expand their offering to consumers around the world."

As the licensed NET Power HXR supplier, Lummus will provide HXR systems for NET Power's utility-scale power plants. Upon completing the Project Permian Front-End Engineering Design (FEED), NET Power intends to issue a purchase order to Lummus for its first utility-scale power plant in Texas . Under the terms of the Strategic Supply Agreement, Lummus intends to leverage its global supply chain network to increase global HXR manufacturing capacity, enabling NET Power deployments at scale to help countries and communities around the world rapidly achieve their energy and environmental goals.

"This Strategic Supply Agreement marks an important milestone in implementing NET Power's three-pillared strategy of proving our technology, building our backlog, and manufacturing for scale," said Brian Allen , President and COO of NET Power. "Lummus' expertise in licensed technology as well as designing equipment for proprietary processes makes them an ideal strategic supplier to enable NET Power to deliver the energy trifecta."

Lummus has provided process industries worldwide with licensed technologies for more than 100 years. During that time, Lummus has designed and supplied more than 25,000 heat exchangers, including high pressure applications. The NET Power Cycle HXR leverages Lummus' decades of experience in heat transfer equipment design and delivery for proprietary systems.

NET Power's transformational technology produces power while inherently capturing nearly all emissions with its patented oxy-fuel combustion and supercritical CO 2 cycle. NET Power seeks to deploy utility-scale plants that produce clean, on-demand power at low cost and address critical issues of air quality and land use, virtually eliminating air emissions including nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and carbon dioxide (CO 2 ).

About Lummus Technology

Lummus Technology is the global leader in developing technology solutions that make modern life possible and focus on a more sustainable, low carbon future. We license process technologies in clean fuels, renewables, petrochemicals, polymers, gas processing and supply lifecycle services, catalysts, proprietary equipment and digitalization to customers worldwide. To learn more about Lummus, visit www.LummusTechnology.com.

About NET Power

NET Power (NYSE: NPWR) is a clean energy technology company developing its proprietary NET Power Cycle, which transforms natural gas into low-cost, clean and reliable power. The Company is on a mission to deploy its utility-scale plants across the world by partnering with local communities, power producers, energy producers, technology providers and other stakeholders. NET Power was founded in 2010 and has offices in Durham, North Carolina (HQ) and Houston, Texas . For more information, visit netpower.com.

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SOURCE Lummus Technology, LLC
CHICAGO and SUNNYVALE, Calif. , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- McDonald's Corporation and Google today announced plans for a new multi-year, global partnership to connect Google Cloud technology across thousands of its restaurants worldwide. This partnership is a significant step for McDonald's in advancing its restaurant technology platform to become the most sophisticated and productive in the industry. McDonald's plans to leverage a wide range of Google Cloud's hardware, data, and AI technologies to implement innovation faster and create even better experiences for its customers, restaurant teams, and employees.

"We see tremendous opportunity for growth in our digital business and our partnership with Google Cloud allows us to capitalize on this by leveraging our size and scale to build capabilities and implement solutions at unmatched speeds," said Brian Rice , McDonald's Executive Vice President and Global Chief Information Officer. "Connecting our restaurants worldwide to millions of datapoints across our digital ecosystem means tools get sharper, models get smarter, restaurants become easier to operate, and most importantly, the overall experience for our customers and crew gets even better."

As part of this partnership, McDonald's will roll out significant advancements to its restaurant and customer platforms  from its popular mobile app that serves as the gateway for its 150 million member-strong and quickly expanding loyalty program, to its thousands of self-service kiosks in restaurants worldwide. With a consistent approach, McDonald's expects to deploy innovations with much greater speed and agility. McDonald's will use edge computing from Google Cloud to power these new platforms, bringing information storage and high powered computing into individual restaurants.

Google Distributed Cloud, a combined hardware and software offering, is planned to be deployed to thousands of McDonald's restaurants so they can leverage both cloud-based software applications and their own software and AI solutions locally on-site, as needed. With Google Cloud edge computing capabilities, McDonald's will be able to draw new insights into how equipment is performing, enact solutions that reduce business disruptions, and diminish complexity for crew so restaurant teams can focus on delivering amazing hospitality to customers. McDonald's will be the largest global foodservice retailer to use Google Distributed Cloud's new capabilities, with plans for thousands of restaurants to begin receiving their hardware and software upgrades next year.

Through this new partnership, a dedicated Google Cloud team in Chicago will work in close proximity to McDonald's global innovation center, known as Speedee Labs. Together, they'll focus on applying generative AI across a number of key business priorities to power exciting new experiences for crew and customers, with McDonald's unmatched convenience and value.

"Through this wide-ranging partnership, Google Cloud will help McDonald's seize on new opportunities to transform its business and customer experiences, empowering restaurants worldwide with the latest technologies for near-term impact," said Thomas Kurian , Google Cloud's Chief Executive Officer. "Pairing the iconic brand, size and scale of McDonald's with Google Cloud's deep history in AI and technology innovation will redefine how this industry works and what people expect when they dine out."

About Google Cloud

Google Cloud accelerates every organization's ability to digitally transform its business and industry. We deliver enterprise-grade solutions that leverage Google's cutting-edge technology, and tools that help developers build more sustainably. Customers in more than 200 countries and territories turn to Google Cloud as their trusted partner to enable growth and solve their most critical business problems.

About McDonald's

McDonald's is the world's leading global foodservice retailer with over 40,000 locations in over 100 countries. Approximately 95% of McDonald's restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local business owners.

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SOURCE Google Cloud
New partnership will include personalized programs for suicide prevention, substance abuse, interpersonal violence, and more

INDIANAPOLIS , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Managed Health Services (MHS), a wholly owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), has announced a new partnership with behavioral health management company Mindoula to offer MHS members around-the-clock, personalized support to address trauma, suicide risk, and other rising mental health challenges.

"It's estimated that one in five Hoosiers experience mental illness each year. Every day, we see more people struggling in our community," said Kevin O'Toole , MHS President and CEO. "MHS knows the importance of whole-person health, and we recognize the barriers to health that exist for our different populations. We are excited to bring Mindoula's innovative model of care to our members, which leans into addressing social determinants of health and providing a personalized approach to managing these complex issues. This is another creative way MHS is continuing to improve the overall health and well-being of all Hoosiers."

Mindoula's combination of 24/7 support, tech-enabled management, and measurement-based care has proven to lead to better outcomes for patients. Using data and analytics to match patients with the right program(s) for their situation and integrating behavioral health care into a patient's primary care, Mindoula has demonstrated the ability to reduce hospital admissions, emergency department visits, and healthcare costs.

"It is such an honor to partner with MHS and the Centene family to deliver our proven behavioral health support and care solutions across the state and engage MHS members in the flow of life to help them effectively address their unique personal needs and challenges," said Justin Lanning , Mindoula Chief Customer Officer. "Whether our support and care delivery is virtual or in-person, high-tech or low-tech, micro or macro, our exciting collaboration with MHS will help us achieve the Quadruple Aim while reducing health disparities and improving health equity in Indiana ."

Mindoula is available to eligible MHS members now and includes the following programs:

Interpersonal Violence Reduction Program

Suicide Prevention Program

StrongWell Substance Exposed Pregnancy Program

Population Health Management Program

For more information on Mindoula, MHS members may contact member services at 1-877-647-4848.

About MHS

Managed Health Services (MHS) is a managed care entity that has been proudly serving the state of Indiana for more than 25 years through the Hoosier Healthwise and Hoosier Care Connect Medicaid programs; and the Healthy Indiana (HIP) Medicaid alternative program. MHS also offers Ambetter from MHS in the Indiana Health Insurance Marketplace , and Wellcare By Allwell, a Medicare Advantage plan. All of our plans include quality, comprehensive coverage with a provider network you can trust. Visit mhsindiana.com to learn more. MHS is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation, a leading healthcare enterprise that is committed to helping people live healthier lives.

About Mindoula:

Mindoula is a next generation population health management company that scales the human connection through technology in addressing mind, body, and life challenges. It identifies, engages, and serves populations who might otherwise be left behind and delivers tech-enabled, team-based, 24/7 support and care across the continuum of care. Mindoula's adaptive data science approach, multi-platform technology stack, and virtual + in-person care extension teams enable its enterprise partners to achieve improved outcomes and significantly reduced costs by integrating behavioral, medical, and social determinants of health. Headquartered in Silver Spring, Maryland , Mindoula is currently operating in more than 28 states which include Maryland , Virginia , the District of Columbia, North Carolina , Nevada , Louisiana , West Virginia , California , Texas , Kentucky , Tennessee , Washington , Arkansas , Colorado , Missouri , New Jersey , Michigan , Pennsylvania , Delaware , South Carolina , Georgia , Mississippi , Minnesota , Indiana , and Florida , with continued national expansion plans to meet the growing need for integrated whole person care.

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SOURCE MHS
Public Affairs-Focused Global Creative Agency Demonstrates Continued Growth

ALEXANDRIA, Va. , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NJI, a global creative agency specializing in creative solutions to inform and influence public policy audiences, announces the promotion of Nate Politi to Chief Operating Officer. He is the first to hold the role following nearly 10 years of leadership across NJI's account strategy teams. In his new role, Politi will ensure excellence in performance, process, culture, and the cross-functional collaboration that drives NJI's success.

Politi is a steadfast strategic advisor to NJI's founders and co-CEOs, Josh Shultz and Nathan Imperiale . A fearless champion for colleagues, clients, and partners, he will focus on delivering peerless organizational development and meaningful brand experiences and developing high-performing teams that achieve results.

Politi's appointment as Chief Operating Officer underscores tireless effort and the complete trust placed in his ability to lead NJI into the next phase of strategic development.

"Nate's commitment to our organization, leadership, and deep understanding of our company's mission has played a pivotal role in our continued growth and success," said Shultz.

Politi's journey within NJI has been marked by unwavering dedication and outstanding leadership. Company-wide colleagues recognize and have lauded his pivotal role in the agency.

"Nate's new position as COO is well-deserved and reflects the high regard the entire organization holds for him. I have no doubt he will continue to drive our company forward and I look forward to witnessing his continued success in his new role," said Shultz.

"The talent and creativity of our team are unmatched, and I am excited for this next chapter," Politi said. "We will continue to evolve in support of our clients, and I'm committed to putting our values into action so that NJI remains a standout agency to work with and for."

NJI's leadership bench is further strengthened by Allison Hoffman Cousens , Managing Director of Partnerships & Marketing, who joins NJI after nearly a decade of guiding Meta's global public policy efforts. She previously served as a product manager for Intuit. In addition, deepening the agency's account management capabilities in Washington, D.C. , are Senior Account Director Sumaya Attia , previously of Memac Ogilvy and the Brookings Institute, and Addison Bailey , previously with Viget and Artemis Ward .

Investing in current team members is equally important, and NJI is pleased to recognize the following promotions: Hillary De Mayo to Senior Manager, Finance & Operations; Julia Melton to Project Manager; Glen Swart to Associate Art Director; and Jay Ungar to Associate Art Director.

About NJI

NJI built our reputation on high-caliber work with a flair for the elegantly unconventional. We develop audience-driven strategies and exceptional creative to help clients solve public affairs and policy challenges. From advocacy campaigns to experiential marketing, we thrive on innovation and forward thinkingand help our clients do the same. Founded in 2007, we make the creative process effortless for our clients by providing the highest level of client service. NJI has offices in Washington, D.C. , London , and Singapore .

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SOURCE NJI
SINGAPORE , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- OKX Ventures, the investment arm of leading crypto exchange and Web3 technology company OKX , today announced that it has joined the Ethereum Climate Platform (ECP) as a launch partner, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and decarbonization in the Web3 ecosystem.

The ECP is an innovative platform created after the transformative Ethereum Merge, leveraging the best of Web3 and traditional climate finance, technology, structures, and services. The platform is designed to galvanize climate solutions with Web3 innovation and address Ethereum's carbon emissions since its launch in 2015.

OKX Ventures, with the support of the OKX Web3 team, joined a coalition of companies dedicated to expediting decarbonization and amplifying climate action through the deployment of cutting-edge technology and the cultivation of digital environmental assets. These are instrumental in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering enduring environmental and societal benefits. OKX's rigorous approach to "proof of reserves" demonstrates a commitment to the unique properties of blockchains as a tool to track and validate critical metrics, a principle that is also essential for effective climate investment.

Facilitated by Consensys and climate tech firm Allinfra, other launch partners of the ECP include industry leaders like Microsoft, Polygon and NEAR Foundation.

OKX Ventures Partner Jeff Ren said: "As an active member of The Nature Conservancy, I'm thrilled that the OKX Ventures and OKX Web3 teams are collaborating with the Ethereum Climate Platform. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to integrating social responsibility and environmental stewardship into Web3 systems globally. We embrace this opportunity and responsibility to pioneer sustainable blockchain innovation to create lasting value for both people and the planet."

ECP Executive Director Anna Lerner said: "Through this partnership, the OKX Ventures and Web3 teams are demonstrating their leadership in sustainable innovation across Web3. Its partnership with the Ethereum Climate Platform and support of Gitcoin demonstrate a dedication to ESG principles, open-source collaboration and community support. This partnership also signals a new era of eco-conscious blockchain advancement."

OKX Ventures' participation in the ECP sets a new standard for environmentally conscious blockchain advancement in the Web3 space. It is also an important step toward its vision of an open, equitable and sustainable future of Web3.

About OKX Ventures

OKX Ventures is the investment arm of the leading crypto exchange and Web3 technology company OKX. It focuses on exploring the best blockchain projects globally, supporting cutting-edge blockchain technology innovation, promoting the healthy development of the global blockchain industry, and investing in long-term structural value.

Through its commitment to supporting entrepreneurs who contribute to the development of the blockchain industry, OKX Ventures helps build innovative companies and brings global resources and historical experience to blockchain projects.

Find out more about OKX Ventures here .

About OKX

A leading global technology company driving the future of Web3, OKX provides a comprehensive suite of products to meet the needs of beginners and experts alike, including:

OKX Wallet: The world's most powerful, secure and versatile crypto wallet which gives users access to over 70 blockchains while allowing them to take custody of their own funds. The wallet includes MPC technology which allows users to easily recover access to their wallet independently, removing the need for traditional, 'written down' seed phrases. In addition, OKX Wallet's account abstraction-powered Smart Account enables users to pay for transactions on multiple blockchains using USDC or USDT, and interact with multiple contracts via a single transaction.

wallet which gives users access to over 70 blockchains while allowing them to take custody of their own funds. The wallet includes MPC technology which allows users to easily recover access to their wallet independently, removing the need for traditional, 'written down' seed phrases. In addition, OKX Wallet's account abstraction-powered Smart Account enables users to pay for transactions on multiple blockchains using USDC or USDT, and interact with multiple contracts via a single transaction. DEX: A multi-chain, cross-chain decentralized exchange aggregator of 300+ other DEXs and approximately 15 bridges, with 200,000+ coins and more than 20 blockchains supported.

exchange aggregator of 300+ other DEXs and approximately 15 bridges, with 200,000+ coins and more than 20 blockchains supported. NFT Marketplace : A multi-chain, zero-fee NFT marketplace that gives users access to NFT listings across seven top-tier marketplaces including OpenSea, MagicEden, LooksRare and Blur.

OKX partners with a number of the world's top brands and athletes, including English Premier League champions Manchester City F.C., McLaren Formula 1, The Tribeca Festival, Olympian Scotty James , and F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo .

As a leader building innovative technology products, OKX believes in challenging the status quo. The company recently launched a global brand campaign entitled The System Needs a Rewrite, which advocates for a new paradigm led by Web3 self-managed technology.

To learn more about OKX, download our app or visit: okx.com

About ECP

Inspired by the Ethereum Merge, a group of technology companiesaligned around the mission of accelerating decarbonization and scaling climate actionthe ECP was founded to accelerate climate action at scale by funding high-quality carbon mitigation projects and accelerating Paris -aligned climate investments. The platform is also committed to redressing and counteracting the historical Ethereum-based carbon footprint, dating back to the network's launch in 2015, and accelerating the ECP launch partners' own decarbonization strategies.

Disclaimer

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SOURCE OKX Ventures
OAKLAND, Calif. , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pacific Workers, a leading workers' compensation law firm, has embraced the spirit of giving this holiday season by extending their support to the Kids Tutoring Program at the Monument Crisis Center located in Concord, CA.

In a heartwarming effort to forge new community bonds, Pacific Workers donated over 50 toys, fulfilling the wishes of the children participating in the tutoring program. The element of surprise added an extra layer of joy, as the kids were unaware of the impending generosity.

This marks the beginning of Pacific Workers' annual toy drive, dedicated to supporting local communities across Northern California. The firm is committed to making a positive impact and has identified key partnerships to achieve this goal.

Among the notable collaborations is the ongoing support of the Firefighters Toy Drives in for the city of Hayward and Oakland, CA. This year marks the third consecutive year of Pacific Workers' involvement in these initiatives, underlining their dedication to community well- being.

"We believe in the power of collective generosity, and these toy drives allow us to make a meaningful contribution to the communities we serve. The smiles on the kids' faces are the greatest reward," said Carmen Ramirez , Community Director at Pacific Workers.

As the holiday season unfolds, Pacific Workers remains committed to supporting organizations that make a difference in the lives of local residents. The firm looks forward to continuing and expanding its community outreach efforts in the coming years.

For more information about Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers, and its commitment to the community, please visit www.pacificworkers.com .

Media Contact:

Carmen Ramirez

[email protected]

510 444- 2512

About Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers:

Pacific Workers is a leading workers' compensation law firm in Northern California . With a passionate commitment to defending the rights of injured workers and advocating for workplace safety. For more information, please visit www.pacificworkers.com .

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SOURCE Pacific Workers' Compensation Law Center
Washington -based health system anticipates growth in ASC and home care with Medline

NORTHFIELD, Ill. , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Building on their longstanding relationship, PeaceHealth recently awarded Medline both its physician office and post-acute care prime vendor agreements. A nationally-recognized health system based in Vancouver, Washington , PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 care providers, a medical group practice with more than 1,200 providers and 10 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest.

Through the agreements, Medline provides an extensive portfolio of medical surgical supplies, equipment and devices to over 400 PeaceHealth clinics  physician office, ambulatory care, community health and home and hospice care -- in Oregon and Washington , with expansion plans for Alaska . Medline resources also help enable PeaceHealth to more easily monitor key metrics, such as item utilization, contract compliance, price accuracy and spend by product categories for these divisions.

"From remote areas in Alaska to urban centers in Oregon , PeaceHealth cares for everyone," said Craig Cottrell , director of field sales programs at Medline. "And it's a privilege to be a strategic partner with an organization that so clearly operates within a healing mission that drives all that they are and all that they do."

PeaceHealth care sites and services continue to evolve with the needs of the community. The health system cites Medline distribution center locations, supply chain solutions and breadth of product portfolio as factors that impacted its prime vendor decisions.

"It's an exciting time to be working together  particularly as PeaceHealth looks to continue to add ambulatory surgery centers and expand homecare and community health capabilities," said David Eusted , system director of supply chain  ambulatory, for PeaceHealth.

PeaceHealth is opening an ASC in Bellingham, Washington next spring. The health system is also building a state-of-the-art ASC in Vancouver, Washington , slated to open in 2025, which will house multiple specialty clinics including dermatology, ear/nose/throat, and endoscopy.

"We're leaning into the Medline portfolio and its supply chain expertise to make us more efficient without compromising anything in terms of patient outcomes or product quality," said Eusted. "We work proactively with Medline on desktop delivery and PAR solutions, auto-substitutions and other inventory management processes to minimize disruptions or stock outs. Our Medline team is a group of high quality people, who are caring and knowledgeable. It's all about relationships and these agreements are a win for PeaceHealth and a win for Medline."

PeaceHealth also expects its prime vendor partnerships with Medline to help with future affiliate network recruitment.

"Our relationship with PeaceHealth has grown into a real partnership over the years together," said Brooks Haggerty , division manager at Medline, "We understand each other's goals and objectives and work collaboratively not only to our mutual benefit but, more importantly, to the benefit of the communities PeaceHealth serves."

Learn how Medline tailors solutions across the entire continuum of care as a manufacturer and distributor by visiting medline.com/supply-chain.

About PeaceHealth

PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Washington , is a not-for-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington , Oregon and Alaska . PeaceHealth has approximately 16,000 caregivers, a medical group practice with more than 1,200 providers and 10 medical centers serving both urban and rural communities throughout the Northwest. In 1890, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace founded what has become PeaceHealth. The Sisters shared expertise and transferred wisdom from one medical center to another, always finding the best way to serve the unmet need for healthcare in their communities. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Visit us online at peacehealth.org .

PeaceHealth was recently ranked No. 1 on list of Portland Business Journal's list of Oregon's healthiest employers.

About Medline

Medline is a healthcare company  a medical supply manufacturer, distributor, and solutions provider focused on improving the overall operating performance of healthcare. Partnering across the continuum of care, Medline helps providers to activate the clinical and supply chain resources needed to deliver their best care. With the agility to solve problems quickly and the scale to partner with providers for their sustained success, Medline is able to invest in its customers for the future and rapidly respond to a dynamically changing market with customized solutions.

Medline was most recently named to the Forbes America's Best Large Employers and America's Best Employers for Women lists, and was recognized for the 12th year by Chicago Tribune as a Top Workplace . Headquartered in Northfield, Ill. , Medline has 35,000+ employees worldwide and operates in over 125 countries and territories. Learn more at medline.com.

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SOURCE Medline
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SHENZHEN, China , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital trade is one of the significant trends in global economic development and a new focus for the economic development of China. The General Office of the People's Government of Guangdong Province recently released the Notice on the Issuance of the Three-Year Action Plan for the Construction of the "Digital Bay Area ", which mentions that the cooperation platform of the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone will be fully utilized for trial and pilot implementation and that the in-depth integration of economic development, public services, and social governance among Guangdong , Hong Kong , and Macao will be promoted through digitalization.

Qianhai of Shenzhen intensively deploys digital economic industries. Theare has a solid foundation in the fields of the information industry and digitalization. Meanwhile, Qianhai's well-developed information industry and various digitalization applications also have a strong demand for new infrastructures such as clouds and networks. The area is actively promoting the construction of new trial Internet Exchange Points to facilitate the interconnectivity of information infrastructures in the Guangdong -Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area , according to Authority of Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone .

The EY Greater Bay Area Center of Excellence was officially established in Qianhai in April 2023 with three major functional areas: a technology interaction and exhibition zone, a technology application and R&D zone, and the Cybersecurity Center. William Huang , the Managing Partner of EY China South, said in an interview that EY hopes to accelerate the development of scientific and technological innovation and research and development with Qianhai as an important hub so as to help enterprises in the Greater Bay Area carry out digital transformation and accelerate the incubation of innovative enterprises, as well as to provide the industry's leading cybersecurity management and operation services.

Qianhai has been at the forefront of building intelligent industries and digitizing industrial parks. Recently, the first application project of " Shenzhen - Hong Kong + Intelligent Park Comprehensive Service Platform" - Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Youth Innovation and Entrepreneur Hub was awarded the "2023 China Leading Intelligent Industrial Park Digital Innovation Award".

Currently, various functional modules of the Shenzhen - Hong Kong + Intelligent Park Comprehensive Service Platform are available and running stably in a number of park projects, such as the central and north areas of Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Youth Innovation and Entrepreneur Hub, Qianhai Towers , Qianhai Comprehensive Bonded Zone , International Talent Hub, International Legal Affairs Zone , LonghaiHome Community, Tanglangcheng Talent Housing, Qianhai Builders Park , and Youth Apartments , effectively supporting the intelligent upgrading of the operation services of the industrial spaces under various bureaus in Qianhai.

It is estimated that Qianhai has played an important part in grooming the next-generation network infrastructure, emerging business models of cross-border e-commerce, big data platforms for cross-border trade, and digital value-added services. The area is also promoting a series of digital reform measures on the basis of the existing excellent business environment, giving new momentum to its leading demonstration in supporting the development of trade.

117 leading cross-border e-commerce companies have settled in Qianhai with the help of digitalization. Last year, the import and export value of cross-border e-commerce in Qianhai reached 38.2 billion yuan , a year-on-year increase of 178.8%. The import and export value of cross-border e-commerce from January to June this year reached 20.51 billion yuan , a year-on-year increase of nearly five times.

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OKINAWA, Japan , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Raelian Movement is thrilled to announce the commemoration of a historic milestone  the "50th Anniversary of the First Encounter," scheduled to take place from December 10 to 16 in Okinawa, Japan . This celebration marks the 50th year since Rael  founder and spiritual leader of the Raelian Movement  had his first encounter with an extraterrestrial being, representative of the civilization that created all forms of life on Earth.

The event is set to occur at the Bankoku Shinryokan Summit Hall, located in Okinawa, Japan , anticipating a global convergence of Raelians, united by their shared commitment to peace, love, and harmony, and welcoming those who created us.

Event Highlights Include:

* Commemorative Celebrations on December 12 and 13: These days will focus on celebrating the historic meeting between Rael and an extraterrestrial human being, alongside Rael's and the Raelian Movement's numerous contributions to society.

* Enlightening Lectures by Rael: The event will feature insightful lectures and dialogues over five days at the Happiness Academy. These discussions will cover various topics, including science, spirituality, the future of humanity, and more importantly, happiness. Only two years ago, Japan counted more deaths by suicide than by viral infection, and the WHO announced a "pandemic of depression and mental diseases." The critical role of Happiness Academies in today's society will be a focal point of these talks.

In a recent statement, Rael highlighted the indispensable role of happiness in ensuring humanity's survival, emphasizing that love can only flourish among happy individuals who propagate happiness. He stressed the importance of focusing on happiness, especially in times of widespread suffering, declaring: "When we are unhappy, we can become aggressive, and from aggression to violence, there is but one step. The more unhappy we are, the more we are going to become aggressive and therefore violent. The destruction of humanity can only be caused by unhappy people, just like the Palestinian genocide."

He added, "To participate in the Happiness Academies isn't selfish. It is important to focus on happiness when so many people are suffering as it is precisely to stop this suffering that we MUST spread and develop happiness. Happiness is the only solution to save Humanity because it brings Love."

Event Details

Date: December 10-16, 2023

Location: Bankoku Shinryokan Summit Hall, Okinawa, Japan

Website: https://www.rael.org/events/50th-anniversary-happiness-academy/

About the Raelian Movement

The Raelian Movement is an international, non-profit organization that fosters world peace, defends human rights, and advances science and technology. Founded by Rael in 1974, the movement is renowned for its philosophy of promoting the well-being and happiness of all through peaceful endeavors. Its ultimate goal is to build an Embassy to welcome the extraterrestrial civilization that is at the root of our own.

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SOURCE Raelian Movement
Seasons at Waterset will offer new single- and two-story homes with designer details

APOLLO BEACH, Fla. , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Richmond American Homes of Florida, LP, a subsidiary of M.D.C. Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: MDC), is pleased to announce that it recently purchased and closed on 63 homesites in Apollo Beach . The land is set to become Seasons at Waterset, an exciting addition to a popular Hillsborough County masterplan.

This notable neighborhood will offer five single- and two-story floor plans from the builder's sought-after Seasons Collection (RichmondAmerican.com/Seasons), designed to put homeownership within reach for a variety of buyers. Richmond American's dynamic floor plans are ideal for homebuyers seeking design flexibility and those looking to downsize without downgrading.

More about Seasons at Waterset:

New single- and two-story homes with designer details

5 Seasons Collection floor plans boasting open layouts

3 to 6 bedrooms and approx. 1,570 to 2,350 sq. ft.

Generous homesites

Impressive on-site amenities, including a community clubhouse, pools and sport courts

Convenient access to Tampa , Sarasota and St. Petersburg

Call 407.287.6285 or visit RichmondAmerican.com for more information.

About M.D.C. Holdings, Inc.

M.D.C. Holdings, Inc. was founded in 1972. MDC's homebuilding subsidiaries, which operate under the name Richmond American Homes, have helped more than 240,000 homebuyers achieve the American Dream since 1977. One of the largest homebuilders in the nation, MDC is committed to quality and value that is reflected in each home its subsidiaries build. The Richmond American companies have operations in Alabama , Arizona , California , Colorado , Florida , Idaho , Maryland , Nevada , New Mexico , Oregon, Pennsylvania , Tennessee , Texas , Utah , Virginia and Washington . Mortgage lending, insurance and title services are offered by the following MDC subsidiaries, respectively: HomeAmerican Mortgage Corporation, American Home Insurance Agency, Inc. and American Home Title and Escrow Company. M.D.C. Holdings, Inc. stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "MDC." For more information, visit MDCHoldings.com.

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SOURCE M.D.C. Holdings, Inc.
SCHAUMBURG, Ill. , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Rittal, a global leader in industrial and IT enclosures, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its 7th Rittal Application Center (RAC) worldwide, located in Houston, Texas . This state-of-the-art facility, that opened its doors on Tuesday, December 5th , will serve as a collaborative hub for Rittal and Eplan, showcasing the combined power of both organizations.

Andreas Ruzic , Chief Executive Officer of Rittal USA, expressed his enthusiasm for the RAC initiative, stating, "Rittal Application Centers are being launched globally as 'boot camps' for panel builders and switchgear manufacturers. Under the motto 'Join. Apply. Grow.', existing and new customers can collaborate on their projects with Rittal experts, explore new technologies, and test them out in real workshop environments."

Michael Jeschke , Eplan Vice President of North & South America , similarly expressed his optimism for the upcoming grand opening of the RAC, stating, "The opening of the Rittal Application Center is a milestone that makes innovation and experience accessible for our customers."

The RAC in Houston is designed to be a dynamic space where customers can witness the integrated solutions of Rittal, Eplan, and RAS (Rittal Automation Systems). The facility will provide a hands-on experience, allowing customers to explore each component of the value chain, its seamless integration, and how these solutions can effectively address their unique challenges.

Ruzic emphasized the significance of combining hardware and software for optimizing industrial processes. He stated, "The main optimization potential lies in industrialized work processes, especially in times of a skilled worker shortage. The process must become faster, more efficient, and more standardized. The only way to achieve that is by ingeniously combining hardware (Rittal & RAS) and software (Eplan)."

Jeschke further explained how the new RAC supports the customer experience along the value chain by stating, "With this new RAC, customers can witness and experience our processes, technology, sourcing, and the expertise of great individuals who demonstrate the state-of-the-art engineering and highly automated manufacturing process for panels. Our technology and processes drive efficiency for your internal processes while we prove day after day what we promise."

Among the cutting-edge Rittal Automation Systems and solutions to be showcased are:

Perforex Milling Terminal : Milling enclosures and flat parts, drilling, and tapping sub-panels.



Perforex Laser Terminal : Cutting enclosures and flat parts, drilling, and tapping sub-panels.



Secarex: Automated din rail and wire duct cutting machine.



Wire Terminal C10 : Automated wire processing (cutting, stripping, crimping, and labeling).



RAS Punch: Automated busbar punching (punching, engraving, thread forming, and cutting).



RAS Bending: Automated busbar bending machine for accurate copper bending to +/-.2".



EPLAN Platform 2024: Faster performance for 3D panel design.

As Rittal expands its global network of Application Centers, the Houston facility represents a pivotal milestone in providing customers with resources to innovate, collaborate, and grow.

About Rittal:

Founded in 1982, Rittal LLC is the fully owned US subsidiary of Rittal GmbH & Co. KG, and is headquartered in Schaumburg, IL. With a main production facility in Urbana, OH , a dedicated Modification Center in Houston, TX , and logistic hubs in Urbana, OH ; Springfield, OH ; Houston, TX ; Sparks, NV ; and Atlanta, GA , Rittal LLC is fully committed to providing the United States with quality enclosure solutions.

Founded in 1961 in Germany , Rittal is a global manufacturer of industrial and IT enclosures, racks, and accessories, including cooling solutions and power management systems for industrial, data center, outdoor, and hybrid applications. As the largest enclosure manufacturer in the world, Rittal provides quality solutions for practically any industrial or IT infrastructure application. Rittal is part of the owner-operated Friedhelm Loh Group along with Eplan. Learn more at rittal.us.

About Eplan:

Eplan was founded in 1984 and is part of the owner-operated Friedhelm Loh Group along with Rittal. Eplan provides software and service solutions in the fields of electrical, automation, and mechatronic engineering, including one of the world's leading design software solutions for machine and panel builders. These solutions enable panel and machine builders, system integrators, and their partners and clients to achieve increased productivity, reduced time to market, and predictable profitability with a minimum 40% time savings from pre-sales through project delivery. Learn more at eplanusa.com.

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SOURCE EPLAN LLC
Infused with ScentAir signature Pine Forest fragrance, Holiday Hangers add a fresh boost of pine to artificial trees, wreaths and more.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ScentAir, a trailblazer in scent marketing and home fragrance is giving artificial trees and holiday decor a freshly cut scent by introducing Holiday Hangers. Available online, these scented ornaments blend seamlessly into artificial greenery, while sprucing it up with ScentAir's classic Pine Forest fragrance.

"Many families switch to artificial trees and decorations for convenience, but they really miss the smell of a freshly cut tree," said Logan Andres , Senior Vice President of Products and Marketing at ScentAir. "We're thrilled that Holiday Hangers will give people back the nostalgic fragrance of fresh pine and can bring that extra special touch of holiday magic into their homes."

Ideal additions to trees, wreaths and garlands, Holiday Hangers keep faux foliage smelling fresh for up to 30 days. Other benefits of this must-have holiday accessory include:

Mess-Free Fragrance: With Holiday Hangers, there's no need to touch fragrance reeds. The mess-free design ensures a hassle-free aromatic experience.

Simply Self-Hanging: Featuring a built-in decorative hanger, they easily attach to branches and limbs. No additional hooks or strings needed.

Unparalleled Quality: Infused with ScentAir's best-selling, professional-quality fragrance Pine Forest .

Elegantly Festive: With a simple, yet festive design, Holiday Hangers are artfully crafted to complement other tree ornaments.

Make this holiday season memorable with ScentAir's Holiday Hangers and keep guests guessing. Holiday Hangers are available at ScentAir.com.

ScentAir: Trusted by Brands, Loved by Families

About ScentAir: ScentAir Technologies, LLC., privately held and founded in 1994, provides best-in-class ambient scent marketing solutions to many of the world's most recognized brands. As the global leader in olfactory marketing, the Company creates memorable impressions for both small businesses and global enterprises, elevating their customer experience through the power of scent. Based in Charlotte, NC , USA, and corporate offices in the United Kingdom , France , Netherlands , China , Hong Kong , Japan and Australia . The Company's 525+ global team members service customers in 119 countries through its dedicated global supply chain and manufacturing operations in North America , Europe , and Asia .

ScentAir is committed to the creation of customized scent strategies that boost clients' brand sentiments, customer loyalty, and sales. To learn more, go to ScentAir.com .

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SOURCE ScentAir
NEW YORK , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Siguler Guff & Company, LP ("Siguler Guff"), a global multi-strategy private markets investment firm, has expanded its marketing and investor relations team to further support its existing and future product lines, it was announced today by Meghan Danaher , Managing Director  Head of Global Distribution. With six investment strategies and 12 offices around the world, Siguler Guff oversees more than $16 billion of assets under management.

The new hires include:

Scott Krattenmaker , a Managing Director, joined Siguler Guff from Morgan Stanley Investment Management to cover clients in the Northeast and Canada .

, a Managing Director, joined Siguler Guff from to cover clients in the Northeast and . Jim Fink , a Managing Director, joined Siguler Guff to cover the West Coast , having previously worked at Barings and Nuveen .

, a Managing Director, joined Siguler Guff to cover the , having previously worked at Barings and . Jeb Banks and Matt Downes , each Managing Directors, joined as co-leads of the Firm's Taft-Hartley distribution practice. Messrs. Banks and Downes have a long history of partnering with Siguler Guff and previously worked for BNY Mellon Investment Management as Taft-Hartley relationship managers.

and , each Managing Directors, joined as co-leads of the Firm's Taft-Hartley distribution practice. Messrs. Banks and Downes have a long history of partnering with Siguler Guff and previously worked for as Taft-Hartley relationship managers. Kentaro Otani , Managing Director and Head of Siguler Guff Japan is responsible for marketing the Firm's capabilities and developing strategic relationships in the region. Based in Siguler Guff's Tokyo office, Mr. Otani joined the Firm earlier this year.

In making today's announcements, Drew Guff , Co-Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer, said, "Each of our new hires are highly seasoned professionals with decades of relevant industry experience. As Siguler Guff plans for its future, building out our investor relations and marketing teams is essential to our commitment to support our valued limited partners as well as the Firm's broad range of investment strategies - Small Business Buyouts, Small Business Credit, Emerging Markets, Credit and Special Situations, Real Estate and Energy."

About the New Hires

Scott Krattenmaker is a Managing Director at Siguler Guff responsible for marketing the Firm's capabilities to institutional investors. Prior to joining Siguler Guff in 2023, Mr. Krattenmaker spent 12 years at Morgan Stanley Investment Management as an Executive Director with the Institutional Sales Team with responsibility for all public and private market strategies across the MSIM platform. Previously, Mr. Krattenmaker had institutional Sales roles with Pioneer Investments, Standish Ayer and Wood and Fidelity Investments .

is a Managing Director at Siguler Guff responsible for marketing the Firm's capabilities to institutional investors. Prior to joining Siguler Guff in 2023, spent 12 years at as an Executive Director with the Institutional Sales Team with responsibility for all public and private market strategies across the MSIM platform. Previously, had institutional Sales roles with Pioneer Investments, and Wood and . Jim Fink is a Managing Director at Siguler Guff and is responsible for marketing the Firm's investment capabilities to institutional investors. Prior to joining Siguler Guff, Jim spent three years with Nuveen and focused on marketing alternative investments to institutional investors. Previously, Jim was Head of Business Development at Park Avenue Institutional Advisers with responsibilities for the firm's overall marketing and distribution efforts. Prior to Park Avenue , Jim was with Barings for 12 years and focused on marketing the Firm's global credit platform to institutional investors in the U.S. and Latin America .

is a Managing Director at Siguler Guff and is responsible for marketing the Firm's investment capabilities to institutional investors. Prior to joining Siguler Guff, Jim spent three years with and focused on marketing alternative investments to institutional investors. Previously, Jim was Head of Business Development at Park Avenue Institutional Advisers with responsibilities for the firm's overall marketing and distribution efforts. Prior to , Jim was with Barings for 12 years and focused on marketing the Firm's global credit platform to institutional investors in the and . Jeremy E. "Jeb" Banks is a Managing Director at Siguler Guff and serves as co-lead in the Firm's capital raising efforts to the Taft-Hartley marketplace. Prior to joining Siguler Guff, Mr. Banks was a Director at BNY Mellon Investment Management , where he was responsible for capital raising and relationship management within the Taft-Hartley market. Prior to joining BNY Mellon Investment Management in 2006, Jeb was a senior analyst at New England Pension Consultants (NEPC), where he also served as an asset-class specialist for the Equity Real Estate and Market Neutral strategies. He also worked for the Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General , investigating companies for prevailing wage, overtime, insurance, and tax-avoidance fraud .

is a Managing Director at Siguler Guff and serves as co-lead in the Firm's capital raising efforts to the Taft-Hartley marketplace. Prior to joining Siguler Guff, was a Director at , where he was responsible for capital raising and relationship management within the Taft-Hartley market. Prior to joining in 2006, Jeb was a senior analyst at (NEPC), where he also served as an asset-class specialist for the and Market Neutral strategies. He also worked for the , investigating companies for prevailing wage, overtime, insurance, and tax-avoidance . Matthew Downes is a Managing Director at Siguler Guff and serves as co-lead in the Firm's capital raising efforts to the Taft-Hartley marketplace. Prior to joining Siguler Guff, Mr. Downes was a Director at BNY Mellon Investment Management , where he was responsible for capital raising and relationship management within the Taft-Hartley marketplace. Prior to joining BNY Mellon Investment Management in 2001, Matt served as the Director of Marketing for US Trust Company of Boston and as an account executive at Union Labor Life Insurance Company .

is a Managing Director at Siguler Guff and serves as co-lead in the Firm's capital raising efforts to the Taft-Hartley marketplace. Prior to joining Siguler Guff, was a Director at , where he was responsible for capital raising and relationship management within the Taft-Hartley marketplace. Prior to joining in 2001, Matt served as the Director of Marketing for of and as an account executive at . Kentaro Otani is a Managing Director and Head of Siguler Guff Japan. He is responsible for marketing the Firm's capabilities and developing strategic relationships in Japan . Prior to joining Siguler Guff, Mr. Otani spent 12 years at BlackRock Japan and JPMorgan Asset Management Japan to cover Japanese institutional investors, from large public pensions, corporate pensions, financial institutions, and local banks. He understands clients' needs in various asset classes from traditional equity and fixed income to alternatives such as Hedge Funds, Private Equity and Debt, Real Estate and Infrastructure.

About Siguler Guff

Siguler Guff is a multi-strategy private markets investment firm, which has over $16 billion of assets under management, estimated as of September 30, 2023. With over 25 years of experience investing as a private markets firm, Siguler Guff seeks to generate strong, risk-adjusted returns by focusing opportunistically on market niches. Headquartered in New York, Siguler Guff maintains offices in Boston, Houston, West Palm Beach, London, Mumbai, Sao Paulo, Shanghai, Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong and Singapore. To learn more about Siguler Guff, please visit: www.sigulerguff.com.

Contacts:

Jeffrey Taufield / Daniel Yunger

Kekst CNC

[email protected] / [email protected]

212-521-4800

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SOURCE Siguler Guff
Hawaiian Bros' Multi-Unit Franchisee Opens Locations in Midland and Tyler

KANSAS CITY, Mo. , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hawaiian Bros is debuting two new island-inspired franchise locations in Tyler and Midland, Texas , opening December 4 ( 6915 S Broadway Ave ), and December 11 ( 3320 W Loop 250 N ), respectively. The locations are the newest to open under Stine Enterprises as two of the 75 Hawaiian Bros' restaurants developed under their recent franchisee agreement.

Since signing their franchise agreement with Hawaiian Bros in early 2023, Stine Enterprises has opened two ghost kitchens in Arizona , and will expand to their tenth market, with two new Hawaiian Bros locations in North Texas . These new restaurants are a part of the Stines agreement to open 75 Hawaiian Bros locations to bring island-inspired food to Arizona and North Texas .

" Texas has been an ideal state to expand the Hawaiian Bros brands," said Adam Stine , President and Owner of Stine Enterprises. "It's been a pleasure thus far to have franchised with Hawaiian Bros, starting in Tempe and Phoenix and now in Midland and Tyler . We're looking forward to what North Texas has to offer!"

Hawaiian Bros is known for its island-inspired plate lunch, which offers a variety of juicy chicken or pork glazed with sweet, savory or spicy sauces; macaroni salad, a bed of fluffy steamed white rice or vegetables; and for dessert, a smooth and tropical Dole Soft Serve. Never relying on freezers or microwaves, the simple menu is prepared with the highest quality, freshest ingredients - unlike any fast-casual restaurant in the area.

To learn more about Hawaiian Bros and its offerings, visit https://hawaiianbros.com/.

About Hawaiian Bros

At Hawaiian Bros, we're inspired every day to spread the Aloha Spirit. To show kindness and respect, and to treat everyone as 'ohana - like family, in everything we do. Founded on the principles of honor, inclusion and gratitude, we respect the dignity and self-worth of every team member and guest. We value our differences and celebrate our common ground. And we say, "thank you" often, emphasizing the positives in our lives every day. Hawaiian Bros owns and operates over 40 restaurants serving the Aloha spirit in eight states across America, and has expanded its franchise opportunities in 2023.

Hawaiian Bros has earned a variety of prestigious awards since their opening in 2018 including a number one spot on the Ingram's Corporate Report of the Top 100 fastest growing companies, and the number seven spot on QSR Magazine's 40/40 List of America's Hottest Startup Fast Casuals, plus many more here. For more information, visit www.hawaiianbros.com .

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SOURCE Hawaiian Bros
NANJING , China , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change ( COP28 ) was opened in Dubai on November 30th and will run until December 12th . This conference marks a significant step forward in global climate governance. During the event, Jiangsu , an eastern province in China , showcased its efforts toward green and low-carbon transformation through exhibitions, presentations, specialized sessions, and various activities. These initiatives received extensive attention from attendees and the local media in the United Arab Emirates.

An article titled "Jiangsu Province Puts Green Initiatives and Environmental Protection in Focus amid Global Climate Change Efforts" was published in "The National", a newspaper from the United Arab Emirates , on December 2nd . The article was published in anticipation of COP28 , an international conference on climate change. On December 3rd , the COP28 Jiangsu-themed exhibition opened at Expo City Dubai , showcasing the achievements of Jiangsu Province in combating climate change. The exhibition displayed outstanding cases of green and low-carbon development practices from cities such as Nanjing , Suzhou , Nantong, Yancheng, and Yangzhou. On December 4th , a special event titled " Jiangsu's Green and Low-Carbon Development Practices" was held within the Chinese section of Dubai Expo City. The event aimed to exhibit and share the actions and effectiveness of various levels of government and sectors of society in Jiangsu in response to climate change.

Lu Weidong , Secretary of the Leading Party Members' Group in the Department of Ecology and Environment of Jiangsu Province , has announced that the province is actively promoting a comprehensive green transformation in both economic and social development. The aim is to accelerate the construction of a modern society where humans can coexist harmoniously with nature. This approach has already yielded valuable results in terms of high-quality development and high-level protection. The province's outstanding performance is particularly evident in the "Three Increases and One Decrease" initiative, which has led to a clear improvement in the high-quality development of the region.

Jiangsu is a province worth observing due to its high-level protection that drives high-quality development. Despite covering only 1.1% of the country's land area, it supports 6% of the population and generates over 10% of the total economic output. However, as a province with a significant economy and population but limited land and resources, Jiangsu faces considerable tension. Nevertheless, through green transformation, this tension has been converted into survivability, competitiveness, development capacity, and sustainability.

Jiangsu has been actively promoting the development of local iconic industries such as new energy, energy storage, smart grids, green materials, and new energy vehicles in recent years. This has resulted in the creation of a trillion-level low-carbon new economic volume, making green and low-carbon initiatives a new growth point in the national economy. By the end of 2022, the province had achieved a 64.3% protection rate for natural wetlands, continuously strengthening water security and showcasing an increasingly prominent green foundation. The concept of "Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets" is gradually becoming a reality where environmental conservation translates into economic wealth.

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SHANGHAI , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The sixth China International Import Expo (CIIE), which concluded on November 10 , was another fruitful event as the value of intended deals reached during the six-day expo hit $78.41 billion , which is 6.7 percent higher than the previous year.

The sixth CIIE, like previous editions, comprised the Business Exhibition, the Country Exhibition, the Hongqiao International Economic Forum, a slew of supporting activities as well as people-to-people cultural exchange events.

This year's expo saw an impressive gathering of participants from 154 countries, regions and international organizations.

More than 3,400 enterprises, including 289 of the world's top 500 enterprises and industry giants, showed off a record number of new products, technologies and services. Over 400 technologies, high-tech products, and innovative services made their debuts at the big show.

The sixth CIIE also welcomed over 750 trade missions. More than 600 intended deals were reached at 96 project signing ceremonies.

The Country Exhibition, which resumed offline this year, allowed 72 countries and international organizations to showcase their scientific and technological achievements, culture and art. Among them were 11 first-time attendees, including Bahrain , the Central African Republic , the Gambia , Guinea-Bissau , Honduras , Mali , Oman , Sierra Leone , Togo , and Zimbabwe .

The sixth Hongqiao International Economic Forum, which included 22 sub-forums, had a record attendance of more than 8,000 participants.

High-profile government officials, Nobel Prize laureates, academicians, and a host of senior executives of industrial pacesetters from home and abroad were invited to discuss global openness. The World Openness Report 2023 was released during the event.

A record number of sub-forums were co-hosted by international organizations such as the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), International Trade Center (ITC), and the United Nations Global Compact.

The seventh edition of the CIIE is now gearing up for a new round of global road shows from December 4 to 12 . The first stops are three European countries: Switzerland , Austria and France .

European companies have been regular participants of the CIIE and have benefited from the vast Chinese market.

According to France -based Schneider Electric, which attended the CIIE for the sixth time, the company had signed deals with more than 30 companies at this year's expo, up 24 percent from the previous year.

"In the past, our business was mainly in the manufacturing and construction industries. This year, it has expanded to more than 10 industries including energy, commercial construction and life sciences. We look forward to more collaborations with China to achieve mutual benefits," a representative from the company said.

So far, more than 100,000 square meters of exhibition area has already been booked for the seventh CIIE in 2024. Grab your spot now at: https://www.ciie.org/exhibition/f/book/register?locale=en&from=press

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Contact: Ms. Cui Yan

Tel.: 0086-21-968888

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://www.ciie.org/zbh/de/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ciieonline

Twitter: https://zwitschern.com/ciieonline

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SOURCE CIIE
NORTH CANTON, Ohio , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Timken Company (NYSE: TKR; www.timken.com), a global leader in engineered bearings and industrial motion products, has been recognized by Newsweek and Statista Inc. as one of America's Most Responsible Companies 2024. Timken has made the prestigious list four straight years, reflecting the company's continued commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR).

"We consider CSR integral to our business strategy and align our global initiatives with our engineering expertise to build a world that is more efficient, resilient and sustainable for generations to come," said Richard G. Kyle , Timken president and chief executive officer. "Our sustainable and responsible practices begin within our own operations and extend to how we engineer solutions for our customers' most difficult challenges. We're honored to be recognized, once again, along with so many outstanding corporate citizens."

The annual list features the top 600 most responsible companies in the United States , spanning 14 industries. Timken is listed in the capital goods subcategory.

Newsweek and Statista select America's Most Responsible Companies by conducting a detailed analysis of key performance indicators (KPIs) for the top 2,000 U.S. -based public companies, by revenue, and a survey of 17,000 U.S. residents. Survey respondents were asked to select companies familiar to them and evaluate their overall CSR performance and in the subcategories of social, environmental and governance.

About The Timken Company

The Timken Company (NYSE: TKR; www.timken.com) designs a growing portfolio of engineered bearings and industrial motion products. With more than a century of knowledge and innovation, we continuously improve the reliability and efficiency of global machinery and equipment to move the world forward. Timken posted $4.5 billion in sales in 2022 and employs more than 19,000 people globally, operating from 46 countries. Timken has been recognized among America's Most Responsible Companies by Newsweek, the World's Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere, America's Most Innovative Companies by Fortune and America's Best Large Employers , Best Employers for New Graduates and Best Employers for Women by Forbes.

Media Relations:

Scott Schroeder

234.262.6420

[email protected]

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SOURCE The Timken Company
Statement of Kathy Crosby , CEO & President of Truth Initiative

WASHINGTON , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Truth Initiative is deeply concerned over the Administration's delay in finalizing crucial rules aimed at removing menthol as a characterizing flavor in cigarettes and eliminating all characterizing flavors from cigars. The originally anticipated timeline for these rules, set for August 2023 , has now been extended to March 2024 . This delay not only puts the rules at risk of never being finalized but also represents a significant victory for Big Tobacco's well-documented exploitative practices, all at the expense of our nation's public health.

These rules are of paramount importance as they hold tremendous potential to save lives, protect youth, reduce health disparities, and play a pivotal role in realizing the President's Cancer Moonshot. The unjustifiable delay we are witnessing will inevitably result in more smokers and more lives lost. It is disheartening to note that between 1980 and 2018, the presence of menthol cigarettes on the market contributed to an additional 10.1 million smokers and 378,000 premature deaths.

Menthol cigarettes have plagued our nation for far too long and have been identified as a gateway product to nicotine addiction, fostering dependence and proving more challenging to quit compared to non-menthol cigarettes. Studies show that youth and young adults are more likely to try a menthol cigarette as their first cigarette and, as a result, are more likely to continue smoking. They have been insidiously marketed to specific communities, particularly Black Americans and the LGBTQ+ community. This tobacco industry marketing strategy has fueled health disparities, with one study revealing that despite representing only 12% of the population, Black Americans accounted for 41% of premature deaths attributable to menthol cigarettes between 1980 and 2018. Prohibiting menthol as a characterizing flavor in cigarettes can prevent an estimated 92,000 to 238,000 smoking-related deaths among Black Americans, as stated by the FDA. Furthermore, flavored cigars are disproportionately used by Black Americans and other minority groups, highlighting the tobacco industry's unrelenting targeting practices.

We cannot afford to wait any longer for the menthol and flavored cigar rules to be enacted. It has been over a decade since the FDA's Tobacco Products Scientific Advisory Committee reviewed the science surrounding menthol cigarettes and unequivocally recommended their removal for the betterment of public health. Subsequent research has only reinforced this conclusion.

The science and data are clear as is the vast evidence in support of these historic rules. The time for action is now, and we urge the White House to expedite the finalization of these rules as quickly as possible. The health and well-being of our communities depend on it.

About Truth Initiative

Truth Initiative is a national public health organization dedicated to achieving a culture where all young people reject smoking, vaping and nicotine and a future where commercial tobacco and nicotine addiction are a thing of the past. Our impact has helped drive youth smoking prevalence down from 23% in 2000 to a historic low of 2% in 2022. The truth about tobacco and the tobacco industry are at the heart of our proven-effective and nationally recognized truth public education campaign. As youth e-cigarette use threatens to put a new generation at risk, we are leading the fight against tobacco and nicotine addiction in all forms. Our first-of-its-kind, text message quit vaping program This Is Quitting has enrolled over 670,000 young people nationwide and our youth e-cigarette prevention curriculum Vaping: Know the truth is being used in more than 9,000 schools nationwide. Our rigorous scientific research and policy studies, community and youth engagement programs supporting populations at high risk of using tobacco, and innovation in tobacco dependence treatment are also helping to end one of the most critical public health battles of our time. Based in Washington D.C. , our organization was established and funded through the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement between attorneys general from 46 states, five U.S. territories and the tobacco industry. To learn more, visit truthinitiative.org.

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SOURCE Truth Initiative Foundation dba Truth Initiative
CHICAGO , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Typenex Medical LLC, a pioneer in histology and cytology solutions, has been awarded a national group purchasing contract with Premier, Inc., a leading healthcare improvement company. This new agreement, effective as of February 1, 2024 , allows Premier members, at their discretion, to take advantage of special pricing and terms pre-negotiated by Premier.

As an accredited diverse supplier, Typenex Medical is proud to deliver dedicated one-on-one customer service and extensive offerings of histology cassettes, inoculation loops, microscope slides, and other related products. "With this addition to our portfolio of eight national agreements, we are excited to continue expanding our collaborative work with Premier. We look forward to the opportunity this gives us to further help Premier members minimize spend and maximize the benefits gained from our full collection of high-quality solutions," said Craig Searls , Director of National Contracting.

"Our value-driven supplies and services are designed to deliver optimal efficiency, smart consolidation, and substantial savings," added Searls. With this agreement, Premier members can easily secure enhanced tier pricing and exclusive benefits.

Premier unites an alliance of more than 4,350 U.S. hospitals and health systems and approximately 300,000 other providers and organizations to transform healthcare. With integrated data and analytics, collaboratives, supply chain solutions, and consulting and other services, Premier enables better care and outcomes at a lower cost.

About TypenexMedical, LLC

Typenex Medical is a medical device and supply company founded by entrepreneur and investor, John Fife . Typenex Medical is committed to connecting with customers to understand their process needs, then delivering tailored products to help streamline workflows. For more information, please visit www.typenex.com.

Contact:

Craig Searls

Director, National Contracting and Corporate Accounts

866-897-3639

sales@typenex.com

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SOURCE Typenex Medical
The Nation's Fastest-Growing Engineering and Consulting Firm Makes Strategic Acquisition of Houston, TX -based Firm



ORLANDO, Fla. , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- UES, a national leading engineering and consulting company, has acquired InControl Technologies, an environmental consulting firm located in Houston, Texas , with an additional office in Dallas . Founded in 1997, InControl Technologies provides comprehensive environmental consulting and engineering services, and their addition to UES supports the company's expanding focus on environmental services. InControl Technologies' projects include a wide range of environmental site assessments, remediation management, and site closures.

InControl Technologies joins the Texas region of UES, led by Brian Powell, P.E. InControl Technologies' leadership team will continue to operate the day-to-day business. "With their addition, we're thrilled to expand our team of experts able to assist clients with understanding their environmental liabilities, quantifying their financial risks, and creating strategic plans to build sustainably and minimize ecological impact," said Powell , P.E.

"As we plan for the future of UES, we're proud to grow our capabilities to meet the demand for environmentally sustainable development," said UES CEO Dave Witsken . "InControl Technologies' expertise in environmental services even further enhances our ability to provide environmentally sound solutions that benefit our clients and our communities."

InControl Technologies Founder and Senior Principal Michael Marcon shared, "After 27 years, InControl is starting a new and exciting chapter becoming a part of UES. From our first introduction to the UES team, I knew it was the right fit for us, culturally and ideologically. The InControl team is excited to partner with and expand UES' team of environmental experts. We look forward to sharing best practices, staying at the cutting-edge of technological developments, and increasing the services offered to our existing client base. This will be a win-win for both InControl and UES."

In September, UES also acquired Biome Consulting Group, an ecological consulting firm in the Central Gulf Coast region of Florida . Many of UES' businesses acquired to date feature robust environmental services, further enhanced with the addition of Biome Consulting Group and InControl Technologies.

With nearly six decades of experience and recognition as the premier engineering and consulting firm in the geotechnical engineering space, UES is well-positioned to serve the needs of commercial, residential, and civic customers across the country. Beginning in 2019, UES' acquisitions have included prominent engineering firms including: Universal Engineering Sciences, GFA International, Inc., NOVA Geotechnical & Inspection Services, Contour Engineering, Wallace-Kuhl & Associates, Construction Testing & Engineering, SUMMIT Engineering, Laboratory & Testing, GEOServices, McGinley & Associates, Geotechnology, Alpha Testing, GSI Engineering, Speedie & Associates, Rock Engineering Testing & Laboratory, Dan Brown and Associates, Carmichael Engineering, Faulkner Engineering Services, Grubbs, Hoskyn, Barton & Wyatt, Riner Engineering, GEO Solutions, Biome Consulting Group, and now InControl Technologies, which have made UES one of the largest, most resource-rich organizations of its kind nationwide.

About InControl Technologies

InControl Technologies is an environmental consulting firm located in Houston , with an additional office in Dallas . Founded in 1997, InControl Technologies provides comprehensive environmental consulting and engineering services. InControl Technologies stands at the forefront of industry developments through ongoing education, innovative technology, and maintaining regulatory agency relationships. For more information, please visit incontroltech.com.

About UES

UES is a privately held, rapidly growing engineering and consulting firm with nearly six decades of experience in geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing, building code compliance, threshold inspections, and environmental consulting. With nearly 4,000 professionals across more than 85 branches in high growth markets in the U.S. , UES consults on projects of all sizes for public and private clients across many industries including transportation, healthcare, commercial, education, industrial, and residential. UES was named 'Hot Firm of the Year' by Zweig Group in 2021, 2022, and 2023. For more information, please visit teamues.com or follow UES on social media .

Media Contact:

Lindsay Graham

Director, Marketing & Communications

UES

407-310-7396

[email protected]

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SOURCE UES
MADISON, Wis. , Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On December 6 , Governor Tony Evers signed into law Assembly Bill 109, bipartisan legislation that makes Wisconsin the 24th state to guarantee a standalone personal finance course for high school students. Advocates, including the NGPF Mission 2030 Fund, applaud the effort. The path to a personal finance course requirement in Wisconsin stretched over two years and was driven by the leadership of Senator Joan Ballweg (R- Markesan ) and Rep. Alex Dallman (R- Green Lake ).

The foundation of a prosperous future is laid by educating our youth in the art of managing personal finances.

Wisconsin joins six other states that passed laws in 2023 that will guarantee all high school students in their states will benefit from a personal finance course: West Virginia , Indiana , Minnesota , Connecticut , Louisiana and Oregon . In the last three years, the number of states requiring a standalone course in personal finance has tripled from eight to 24. View the status of all states on NGPF's Live U.S. Dashboard .

"The foundation of a prosperous future is laid by educating our youth in the art of managing personal finances and now future graduates of Wisconsin high schools will have this opportunity," said Tim Ranzetta , Co-Founder of Next Gen Personal Finance . "This achievement could not have been accomplished without the incredible teacher-advocates, Laura Finke , Kerri Herrild , Joel Chrisler and Patrick Kubeny . They, along with their students, testified passionately in front of Education Committees on the powerful impacts of a personal finance course."

Wisconsin will require students graduating high school in the 2027-28 school year to take at least a one semester course of personal finance that includes financial mindset, education and employment, money management, saving and investing, credit and debt, and risk management and insurance.

"Financial literacy gives people the tools they need to be financially secure and to realize their dreams for themselves and their families," said Dave Mancl , Director of the Office of Financial Literacy at the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions. " Wisconsin can now guarantee that all students will be provided the financial life skills and knowledge they can benefit from all through life."

"Requiring all Wisconsin students to complete a personal finance course is a crucial step toward breaking the cycle of generational poverty and ensuring social justice," said Kerri Herrild , personal finance teacher at De Pere High School. "This transformative educational initiative extends beyond the classroom, equipping our youth with the knowledge to make sound financial decisions, benefiting not just them but all Wisconsin residents for generations to come."

"Financial education is empowerment," said Laura Finke , career and technical education teacher at Oconomowoc High School. "It provides students with opportunities to practice tangible life skills: opening a bank account or Roth IRA, filing taxes, researching insurance policies, and beyond."

Research shows that high school personal finance courses positively impact student debt decisions and credit scores, help graduates avoid predatory lenders, increase savings rates among teachers, and generate positive spillover effects on parents.

"It is impossible to win the money game if you don't know the rules," said Patrick Kubeny , who taught personal finance for decades at Rhinelander High School. "This bill will ensure, at the very least, that each and every Wisconsin student will be provided the chance to learn those vital money rules."

" Wisconsin has always been a leading state to invest in the future of its students," said Joel Chrisler , Jump$tart's Advisor on Effective Financial Education. "Thank you to our legislators and governor for making a decision that strengthens the economic future for Wisconsin ."

The NGPF Mission 2030 Fund, a nonprofit that advocates for this policy in all states, was a supporter of the bill and provided technical support to policymakers.

About Next Gen Personal Finance

Next Gen Personal Finance (NGPF) is a nonprofit committed to guaranteeing that all high school students receive a personal finance course prior to graduating. NGPF has become the number one source for more than 90,000 educators looking for high-quality, engaging personal finance curriculum to equip students with the skills they need to thrive in the future. NGPF invests in teacher professional development with live Virtual Professional Development, 10 Certification Courses, and 40+ asynchronous On-Demand modules. NGPF has been recognized by Common Sense Education as a "Top Website for Teachers to Find Lesson Plans" and "Best Business and Finance Games" and also named NGPF a "Selection for Learning." Visit ngpf.org for more.

MEDIA CONTACT

Tim Ranzetta

NGPF Mission 2030 Fund/

Next Gen Personal Finance

[email protected]

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SOURCE Next Gen Personal Finance
CAIRO (Reuters) - Qatar-based Al Jazeera Media Network said an Israeli bombardment on Wednesday killed 22 relatives of its Gaza correspondent Moamen Al-Sharafi and condemned the operation.

"The horrific event unfolded today at Jabalia Camp, where Moamen's family sought refuge, leading to the killing of his father, mother, three siblings and his children," the network said in a statement.

The journalist, who was elsewhere during the bombardment, later appeared live on Al Jazeera. The victims included 17 other members of his extended family.

The network said it "will pursue all legal steps to holding accountable all those responsible for this crime."

There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. Jabalia is in the northern Gaza Strip.

On Oct. 25, an Israeli raid killed several family members of Wael Dahdouh, another Al Jazeera correspondent in Gaza.

(Reporting By Nidal al Mughrabi and Moaz Abd-Alaziz in Cairo; Writing by Moaz Abd-Alaziz; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
By Marc Jones

LONDON (Reuters) - Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley used a speech in London on Wednesday to call for a global conversation on reparations for countries that saw their people enslaved, sometimes for centuries, under colonial rule.

"The conspiracy of silence has diminished the horror of what our people faced," Mottley said in a lecture at the London School of Economics where she studied in the early 1980s.

Barbados was one of Britain's first slave colonies. English settlers first occupied the Caribbean island in 1627 and, under British control, it became a sugar plantation economy using enslaved people shipped from Africa.

Slavery was abolished in 1834 and Barbados became fully independent in 1966 and then a republic in 2021, though it has remained part of the Commonwealth.

Mottley had also had a meeting with new British foreign minister, and former Prime Minister, David Cameron while she was in London.

Questioned whether she had asked him directly about the UK making reparations payment, which she had earlier cited an estimate of being worth $24 trillion based on a "standard definition" of damage, she said she would not disclose the details.

But having also referred to how Britain's King Charles had acknowledged on a trip to Rwanda last year when he was still the Prince of Wales that it was time to have "the conversation" about the wrongs of slavery, she added: "I hope the foreign secretary will take his lead from his Majesty".

She also said countries like hers did not expect reparation damages to be paid in one lump sum or over a short time frame. Instead she likened what needed to be done to the extraction of wealth in the first place, which had happened over centuries.

"I want to salute the King for having the courage to recognise this is a conversation that the time has come to have," Mottley said.

Her comments were made in moving fashion, interspersed between a series of poems by Barbados' first poet laureate about slavery and injustices, such as the 2020 killing of Floyd George by a white police officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Mottley has become a prominent voice in recent years in global discussions about inequality, climate change and overindebtedness.

Having just attended the UN's COP 28 climate summit in Dubai she repeated calls for global taxes to be levied on the financial services, oil and gas, and shipping industries to help poorer countries pay for the costs of global warming.

"The world needs to share the burden," Mottley said. "The world needs us to rise up and change our behaviour."

(Reporting by Marc Jones; editing by Edward Tobin)
By Luc Cohen

NEW YORK (Reuters) -The co-founder of Hong Kong-registered virtual currency exchange Bitzlato, a Russian national who U.S. authorities have accused of processing about $700 million in illicit funds, pleaded guilty to a U.S. criminal charge on Wednesday and agreed to forfeit $23 million in a deal with federal prospectors.

Anatoly Legkodymov, Bitzlato's majority owner and co-founder, entered the guilty plea to one count of operating a money-transmitting business that transported and transmitted illicit funds at a hearing before U.S. District Judge Eric Vitaliano in Brooklyn.

Legkodymov, who according to U.S. officials ran Bitzlato from the Chinese city of Shenzhen, said in court that he became aware that some of Bitzlato's clients had used the platform to transfer cryptocurrency derived from illicit activity.

He acknowledged that ransomware proceeds from Hydra Market, which prosecutors described as an online marketplace used for drugs, stolen financial information and money laundering services, made their way onto the Bitzlato platform. U.S. and German law enforcement shut down Hydra Market in April 2022.

"He was well aware that Bitzlato, his cryptocurrency exchange, was being used like an open turnstile by criminals," Breon Peace, the top federal prosecutor in Brooklyn, said in a statement.

Bitzlato's website has been replaced by a notice saying the service has been seized by French authorities as part of a coordinated international law enforcement action.

Legkodymov, 41, faces up to five years in prison when the judge sentences him. No sentencing date was set. Legkodymov was arrested in Miami on Jan. 17 and held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn since then.

His guilty plea represented the latest victory in U.S. law enforcement's crackdown on fraud and illicit finance in the cryptocurrency markets.

Last month, FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried was convicted on charges of stealing billions of dollars from that cryptocurrency exchange's customers, while rival Binance agreed to pay a $4.3 billion settlement and CEO Changpeng Zhao pleaded guilty to breaking U.S. anti-money laundering laws.

Binance was among Bitzlato's top counterparties, according to U.S. authorities.

Russia's embassy in Washington called for Legkodymov's release in April after Ambassador Anatoly Antonov visited him in jail. Hours earlier, Russia had denied a U.S. embassy request to visit detained Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich.

A U.S. State Department spokesman said on Tuesday that Russia in recent weeks rejected a proposal for the release of Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, two Americans considered by the U.S. to be wrongfully detained in Russia.

(Reporting by Luc Cohen in New York; Editing by Will Dunham)
Dredgers used for illegal gold extraction are seen during a joint operation between Colombian and Brazilian authorities in the Amazon jungles, Colombia December 2, 2023. Colombian Air Force/Handout via REUTERS

By Luis Jaime Acosta

BOGOTA (Reuters) - Colombia and Brazil destroyed 19 illegal gold mining dredges in the Amazon rainforest which were producing about $1.5 million of the precious metal a month and polluting rivers with mercury, Colombia's armed forces said on Wednesday.

Monthly production at the illegal mining operation was 23 kilograms (50.71 lb), Colombian authorities said.

The U.S.-backed bilateral operation targeted the infrastructure of the transnational criminal group Familia del Norte, whose illicit gold mining dumped 114,000 grams of mercury and polluted 68 million liters (18 million gallons) of water every month, according to authorities.

The operation "became a source of financing for weapons and explosives and the acquisition of chemical inputs by the criminal structure known as the Familia del Norte," Colombia's armed forces said in a press release.

Brazil and Colombia are two of the world's most biodiverse nations, with swathes of their landmass covered by the Amazon rainforest, which scientists say is vital to slowing down climate change because of the huge amounts of greenhouse gases it absorbs.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and his Colombian counterpart Gustavo Petro have used their platforms at international events to urge protection of the Amazon, efforts to curb deforestation and debt-for-nature swaps.

In Colombia, 12 three-storey vessels with engine rooms, sediment storage and accommodation were destroyed on the Pure and Purete rivers. Brazilian authorities destroyed seven of these same vessels on their territory.

"We are witnessing a historic bi-national operation against the illegal extraction of mineral deposits, aimed at protecting the lungs of the world," said William Rene Salamanca, director of Colombia's National Police in a statement.

($1 = 3,985.7400 Colombian pesos)

(Reporting by Luis Jaime Acosta; Writing by Steven Grattan; Editing by Richard Chang)
Congolese political veteran and presidential candidate Martin Fayulu speaks during his interview with Reuters in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, November 23, 2023. REUTERS/Benoit Nyemba

By Sonia Rolley and Ange Kasongo

KINSHASA (Reuters) - Congolese presidential candidate Martin Fayulu has a blunt message for voters: The 2018 election was stolen from him and he is back to fight for the top job he believes is rightfully his.

Fayulu, 67, a former oil executive and leader of the Engagement for Citizenship and Development party, came second to President Felix Tshisekedi in 2018. But Fayulu claims he won with over 62% of the vote and challenged the results in court.

The perceived injustice has fuelled Fayulu's campaign for Democratic Republic of Congo's Dec. 20 presidential election, which follows what he describes as five years of corruption, incompetence and insecurity under Tshisekedi.

He promises to end graft, which is rife in the Central African country of around 95 million people, create a stronger, well-paid army to fight insurgents who have created a humanitarian crisis in the east, and improve basic services like water, electricity and healthcare.

"Is there a single Congolese who can tell me that he lives better than in 2018?" Fayulu told Reuters in an interview last month. "Mr. Tshisekedi has done absolutely nothing."

Fayulu is one of a few front-runners aiming to unseat Tshisekedi. It is not yet clear if he has the same support as in 2018 when he was nominated as the umbrella opposition candidate before Tshisekedi broke away to form an alliance with former President Joseph Kabila.

Back then, Fayulu's message of anti corruption and stability after decades of turmoil rang true with the thousands of people who attended his rallies.

But so far this time, the opposition has been unable to reach an agreement over a united candidate, and many favour former mining magnate and presidential hopeful Moise Katumbi.

"I don't think Fayulu can win alone. He is well known internationally but when it comes to a comparison with Katumbi, it is not the same," said Zaynab Hoosen, political economist at Oxford Economics Africa.

Born in Kinshasa, Fayulu received a post graduate education in France and the United States before joining Mobil oil company in Congo in 1984, according to his official campaign biography.

He worked for the company in the U.S., France and Africa before he left in 2003, when it merged to become oil giant Exxon Mobil.

He has dabbled in politics since the 1990s, was elected as a deputy for Kinshasa in 2006, and created his own party in 2009. As a leading opposition candidate, he has often been in danger: He was present when police fired live rounds at his supporters ahead of the 2018 vote.

The experience, he says, makes him an ideal president.

"You have to entrust the country to someone who is not a thief, someone who is not corrupt, someone who has proven skills and is a patriot," he told Reuters.

(Reporting by Ange Kasongo and Sonia Rolley; Writing by Edward McAllister; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
COPENHAGEN (Reuters) - PensionDanmark, one of Denmark's largest pension funds, said on Wednesday it had decided to sell its holdings in Tesla over the U.S. auto company's refusal to enter into agreements with labour unions.

The decision is part of a growing Nordic movement to force Tesla to sign collective bargaining agreements with Swedish mechanics, who have been on strike since October.

Labour unions in Norway and Denmark this week said they would start blocking transit shipments of Tesla cars meant for the Swedish market.

Tesla has a policy of not agreeing to collective bargaining and says its employees have as good or better terms than those the Swedish union is demanding.

"In the light of the conflict now spreading to Denmark as well as Tesla's recent very categorical refusal to enter a labour union agreement in any country, we have come to the conclusion that we as investors at present hardly can influence the company," the pension fund said in an emailed statement.

"That is why we're now putting Tesla on our exclusion list," it said.

PensionDanmark, which manages pensions for 823,000 Danes, has 317.3 billion Danish crowns ($45.81 billion) under asset management.

The fund did not say how big its holdings in Tesla are.

($1 = 6.9268 Danish crowns)

(Reporting by Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen; Editing by Sandra Maler)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Iran and Syria have agreed to remove customs duties on 88 products to boost their trade relations, Iranian Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Mehrdad Bazrpash said, Trend reports.

He made the announcement after meeting with Syrias Minister of Economy and Foreign Trade, Mohammad Samir Al-Khalili, in Tehran on December 6.

Bazrpash said that the customs of both countries have been notified of the list of products that will enjoy duty-free status, and the new policy will take effect in a few days. He also said that the two sides are working on simplifying the customs procedures between them.

The minister revealed that Iran and Syria are planning to establish a joint free trade zone in the near future. He said that Iran has proposed some locations for the free trade zone and is waiting for Syrias response. The free trade zone is expected to be operational in the next few months.

Bazrpash also emphasized the importance of improving the Tehran-Damascus railway line (via Iraq) for increasing cargo transportation between the two countries. He said that the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways is ready to help restore the railway lines in Syria that have been damaged by the war.

The meeting of the joint economic commission between Iran and Syria was held in Tehran on December 6, 2023.

---

Follow the author on X (Twitter):@BaghishovElnur
A sign at the entrance to U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, in eastern North Carolina, U.S., sits in this undated handout photo. U.S. Marine Corps/Handout via REUTERS/File photo

By Michael Martina

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. utility company Duke Energy said on Wednesday it had disconnected large-scale batteries made by Chinese company CATL from North Carolina Marine Corps base Camp Lejeune after lawmakers and experts raised concerns about the battery supplier's close links to China's ruling Communist Party.

A number of Republican and Democratic lawmakers have sounded the alarm over potential security threats posed by Chinese storage batteries, arguing the U.S. risks building a critical dependency on its top rival for the devices that may have cyber vulnerabilities and put energy grids at risk.

Duke Energy used the CATL batteries in its facility leased at Camp Lejeune, according to an April press release. That spurred criticism from a group of more than two dozen Republican lawmakers led by Senator Marco Rubio, who last week wrote Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin asking him to "immediately reverse" the installation of the batteries.

Duke Energy has since met with lawmakers, including North Carolina Representative Greg Murphy, about the issue.

"Some concerns about this project have been raised, and, as a result, Duke Energy disconnected these batteries as we work to address these questions," the company told Reuters in a statement.

But it added that the system was designed with "security in mind" and that the batteries "were not connected in any way to Camp Lejeune's network or other systems."

The company did not say when the batteries were disconnected or how long they would remain offline.

CATL told Reuters in a statement that accusations about its batteries posing espionage threats were "false and misleading" and that its products had passed security reviews by U.S. authorities.

Its energy storage products sold to the U.S. contained only "passive" devices, which were not equipped with communication interfaces, the company said.

Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for China's embassy in Washington, said China "always opposes the U.S. side politicizing trade and investment cooperation."

The U.S. Department of Defense did not respond immediately to a request for comment.

CONCERNS OVER CHINESE BATTERIES

The deployment of such utility-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) is increasing rapidly in the U.S. as sources of renewable energy come online. Much of that capacity will likely come from Chinese suppliers, which are leaders in the technology and stand to benefit from U.S. renewable energy tax credits.

Democratic Senators Mark Warner and Joe Manchin in November urged the Department of Energy to prioritize U.S.-developed energy storage technologies in the face of China's "near-monopoly" over battery production, which they said poses "substantial defense and economic security vulnerabilities."

"Disconnecting systems supported by the Chinese Communist Party is common sense, especially when it comes to securing our military bases," Rubio told Reuters following Duke Energy's statement.

Such systems require frequent remote operation and telecommunications equipment connected to the batteries could be vulnerable to hacking attempts, say experts.

An October 2022 DOE report highlighted risks associated with grid-connected battery storage systems, warning that attackers have shifted focus to suppliers of hardware and software, seeking to "add backdoor capabilities that permit unauthorized access and control."

In worst case scenarios, experts say coordinated attacks could knock out energy grids. The U.S. intelligence community's 2023 threat assessment said China is likely capable of launching cyberattacks that would disrupt critical infrastructure services within the U.S. intended to induce societal panic and interfere with the deployment of U.S. forces in a period of conflict.

Craig Singleton, a China expert at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, warned in an October report that CATL's founder and top shareholder, Zeng Yuqun, is closely tied to China's ruling Communist Party, and serves as a vice chairman of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, a trade group under the party's United Front Work Department, which carries out Beijing's agenda overseas.

"The company's corporate connections and leadership links to China's party-state serve as structured channels through which Beijing can exert influence and control over the company's personnel, operations, and data," Singleton said.

CATL said it met its disclosure obligations as a publicly traded company and noted its investors included Western firms such as JP Morgan Chase and UBS.

Republican Representative Austin Scott has sought language in the sweeping 2024 annual defense spending bill that would bar the Pentagon from purchasing or using battery technology made by CATL and other Chinese suppliers.

CATL has announced deals to supply batteries for commercial energy projects around the country, including in Texas and Nevada.

Mike Casey, director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC), which coordinates with the U.S. private sector over security threats, said companies should think twice before installing Chinese batteries.

"We encourage power companies interested in using these industrial battery energy storage systems from China to think beyond the short-term cost savings they may realize and consider the potential long-term vulnerabilities and how to mitigate them  which could end up being costlier," Casey told Reuters.

(Reporting by Michael Martina; Additional reporting by Zhang Yan in Shanghai; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and Stephen Coates)
FILE PHOTO: 155mm artillery shells are seen during the manufacturing process at the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant in Scranton, Pennsylvania, U.S., February 16, 2023. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid/File Photo

By Andrew Gray

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - European Union countries have placed orders for only 60,000 artillery shells under an EU scheme to help get 1 million rounds of ammunition to Ukraine by next spring, according to people familiar with the figures.

The scheme was a centrepiece of an EU initiative to ramp up the supply of vital 155mm artillery shells to Ukraine, allowing countries to place orders with industry through contracts negotiated by the bloc's European Defence Agency (EDA).

The broader initiative, launched in March, offered various schemes to get 1 million shells and missiles to Ukraine within a year for the war against Russia's invasion.

Together, those schemes have yielded some 480,000 munitions, according to the EU - less than half of the target, with about four months to go.

The particularly small volume of orders for the scheme at the heart of the programme highlights bigger struggles that the EU is facing in trying to hit the target.

In a sign of concern at the low volume of orders so far, a draft declaration for an EU summit next week "stresses the urgent need to accelerate the delivery of missiles and ammunition, notably under the one million rounds of artillery ammunition initiative".

Artillery rounds are a crucial element in the war of attrition between Ukrainian troops and Russia's invasion forces, with each side firing thousands of shells every day.

The European Defence Agency said in September that seven countries had ordered ammunition through the pioneering joint procurement scheme. Lithuania, Denmark and Luxembourg said they were among the seven.

The EDA did not specify the size of the orders. But people familiar with the figures told Reuters on condition of anonymity the total was just 60,000 shells.

Another option for EU members was to deliver from existing stocks, yielding some 300,000 shells and missiles, the EU says.

Other munitions have been ordered through a scheme that allows EU countries to piggy-back onto contracts signed by one "lead nation".

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said last month the EU would miss the 1 million target, echoing a view expressed privately by some diplomats and officials.

But others including EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell have insisted the goal remains.

Borrell hailed the plan to send 1 million shells to Ukraine within a year as "historic" when it was agreed in March. The initiative allows countries to get partial refunds on their orders through an EU-run fund, the European Peace Facility.

DIFFERENT EXPLANATIONS

Officials and industry leaders have offered different explanations for the EU's struggle to meet the goal.

Some argue that many governments have simply not backed up their rhetoric about supporting Ukraine for the long haul by placing orders with arms firms.

Others insist that it takes time for industry to ramp up and restart production of such artillery shells, which until recently were not viewed as a priority for modern warfare.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said last week he thought the problems were more technical than political.

"People with special knowledge of how things work - how spare parts work, how chains of supply work - they have to sit down and sort it out," he said.

Some officials have also blamed a decision to restrict the joint procurement drive to companies from the EU and Norway.

Asked whether it could confirm the 60,000 figure, the European Defence Agency said it did not comment on numbers.

The EU's diplomatic service said only member countries could provide details of orders. But it stressed EU countries were supplying shells via various routes, not just joint procurement.

"Member states continue to deliver artillery ammunition to Ukraine, whether through stocks, redirection of existing orders or new procurement," spokesperson Peter Stano said in an email.

"The goal to deliver one million rounds of ammunition remains a political priority. We continue to encourage all member states to consider placing orders within the EDA framework contracts, as capacities remain available."

(Reporting by Andrew Gray; Editing by Alison Williams)
By Andrew Gray

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Union should consider toughening sanctions on Hamas and its finances, and imposing sanctions on Israeli settlers responsible for violence in the West Bank, the bloc's diplomatic service says in a paper prepared for EU foreign ministers.

The "orientation note", seen by Reuters on Wednesday, sets out options for ministers to consider at a meeting in Brussels on Monday as they contemplate further responses to the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and preparations for the time after the war.

Hamas, the Palestinian militant group that killed some 1,200 people in a cross-border assault on Israel from Gaza on Oct. 7, is already listed by the EU as a terrorist organisation, meaning any funds or assets that it has in the EU should be frozen.

But the paper suggests the EU could "reinforce sanctions against Hamas and other terrorist groups" by further targeting finances and disinformation. It suggests the EU could set up a special sanctions programme dedicated to Hamas.

EU sanctions decisions generally need the approval of all 27 member countries, which have struggled to agree common positions on the current crisis as many have different and strongly held views on the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

France and several other EU countries have said they are already working together to advance proposals to impose sanctions - asset freezes and travel bans - on Hamas commanders.

Senior EU officials, including foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, have also expressed alarm over rising violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the occupied territory of the West Bank.

The discussion paper, prepared by the European External Action Service and other EU officials, suggests an EU response could include bans on travel to the EU for those responsible and other sanctions for violation of human rights.

(Reporting by Andrew Gray; editing by David Evans)
FILE PHOTO: Former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) leaves the House of Representatives on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S. November 1, 2023. REUTERS/Julia Nikhinson/File Photo

By David Morgan

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Ousted U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said on Wednesday that he will leave Congress at the end of this year, a move that raised anxieties among his fellow Republicans about the path that lies ahead for their narrow and fractious majority.

His move came as Congress struggles to move forward on a raft of critically important legislation, including fiscal 2024 spending bills that Congress must adopt by Jan. 19 to avert a partial government shutdown.

The task poses a new and perilous test for McCarthy's successor, House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson, a Christian conservative with relatively little leadership experience who won the gavel after weeks of bitter Republican infighting.

"I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways," McCarthy, 58, wrote in a Wall Street Journal column.

"It often seems that the more Washington does, the worse America gets," said McCarthy, who was ousted as speaker by hardline Republicans in early October.

The departure of the former party leader and campaign fundraising juggernaut, who helped Republicans take control of the House in 2022, could hamper party hopes of retaining that majority next year.

While he represents a safely Republican California district, his departure will further narrow Republicans' already slim 221-213 majority early next year as Congress tries to avert a partial government shutdown in mid-January.

Under California law, a special election must take place within 126 to 140 days from the time the state's governor calls one.

McCarthy is the latest of several House Republican departures that could reduce Republicans to only a one-seat margin for passing legislation in early 2024.

'MAKE IT MORE DIFFICULT'

Representative Mike Simpson, an establishment Republican, said McCarthy's announcement "absolutely" underscored the difficulty of governing the Republican majority. He noted that McCarthy was removed by eight hardliners representing less than 4% of the party conference, who voted with Democrats.

"It's going to be difficult for any speaker to satisfy everybody in Congress," the Idaho Republican said.

"It might make it more difficult on Speaker Johnson, trying to maintain his majority," Simpson added.

Republican Representative Dusty Johnson said McCarthy's departure underscores the party's loss of strategic thinkers at a time when House Republicans need to compromise with the Democratic-led Senate and White House.

"We don't have enough mature strategic thinkers here ... to the extent that we have fewer all-stars on the field. That's going to hurt," Johnson said.

McCarthy, who first entered Congress in 2007, spent the ensuing years rising through party leadership ranks in the House before beginning a brief but wild term as the top Republican in Congress. He belonged to a rising generation of Republicans known as "young guns," which included former Speaker Paul Ryan.

His tenure as speaker was marked by stormy relations with Republican hardliners, who forced him to endure 15 humiliating floor votes before receiving the gavel last January.

Hardliners voted McCarthy out on Oct. 3 after he backed a bipartisan spending measure that averted a government shutdown.

Representative Ken Buck, one of the eight Republicans who ousted McCarthy, called the impending departure "a good decision" for the former speaker and his family. "No, no, no," Buck replied when asked if he regretted his vote.

McCarthy was replaced by Johnson after weeks of Republican infighting in which three more seasoned candidates were nominated and then rejected.

He drew hardliners' ire earlier this year by striking a deal with Democratic President Joe Biden that averted a default on U.S. debt and set a $1.59 trillion spending limit for fiscal 2024. Hardliners shuttered the House floor for days over the spending agreement but have since said they would accept it.

McCarthy was the first U.S. House speaker to be ejected from the chair. But he will become the third Republican speaker, after John Boehner and Ryan, to leave Congress following repeated clashes with the Republican hard right.

McCarthy won reelection in 2022 by a 35-point margin, and his California district is not seen as competitive by the three main nonpartisan election forecasters.

(Reporting by David Morgan; additional reporting by Moira Warburton; editing by Scott Malone, Alistair Bell, Jonathan Oatis, Cynthia Osterman and Daniel Wallis)
FILE PHOTO: Houthi military helicopter flies over the Galaxy Leader cargo ship in the Red Sea in this photo released November 20, 2023. Houthi Military Media/Handout via REUTERS

By Aziz El Yaakoubi and Parisa Hafezi

RIYADH/DUBAI (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia has asked the United States to show restraint in responding to attacks by Yemen's Houthis against ships in the Red Sea, two sources familiar with Saudi thinking said, as Riyadh seeks to contain spillover from the Hamas-Israel war.

The Iran-aligned Houthis have waded into the conflict that has spread around the Middle East since war erupted on Oct. 7, attacking vessels in vital shipping lanes and firing drones and missiles at Israel itself.

The group which rules much of Yemen says its attacks are a show of support for the Palestinians and has vowed they will continue until Israel stops its offensive on the Gaza Strip - more than 1,000 miles from their seat of power in Sanaa.

The Houthis are one of several groups in the Iran-aligned "Axis of Resistance" which have been attacking Israeli and U.S. targets since the start of the conflict on Oct. 7, when their Palestinian ally Hamas sparked the war by attacking Israel.

Their role has added to the conflict's regional risks, threatening sea lanes through which much of the world's oil shipped, and worrying states on the Red Sea as Houthi rockets and drones fly towards Israel.

Riyadh, the world's top oil exporter, has watched with alarm as Houthi missiles have been fired over its territory.

With the Houthis stepping up attacks on shipping over the past weeks, two sources familiar with Saudi thinking said Riyadh's message of restraint to Washington aimed to avoid further escalation. Riyadh was so far pleased with the way the United States was handling the situation, the sources added.

"They pressed the Americans about this and why the Gaza conflict should stop," one of the sources said.

The White House declined to comment.

The Saudi government did not respond to an emailed request for a comment on the discussions.

As Saudi Arabia presses for a ceasefire to halt what it has called a "barbaric war" in Gaza, its diplomacy reflects a wider policy aimed at promoting regional stability after years of confrontation with Iran and its allies.

Focused on expanding and diversifying the Saudi economy, Riyadh this year normalised ties with Tehran and is seeking to exit the war it has been waging with the Houthis in Yemen for nearly nine years.

The sources said Saudi Arabia was seeking to advance the Yemen peace process even as war rages in Gaza, worrying it could be derailed. Yemen has enjoyed more than a year of relative calm amid direct peace talks between Saudi and Houthi officials.

The Houthi attacks during the Hamas-Israel war have elevated their profile in the Iran-aligned camp which also includes Hamas, Lebanon's Hezbollah and Iran-backed militias in Iraq.

The Houthis have emerged as a major military force in the Arabian Peninsula, with tens of thousands of fighters and a huge arsenal of ballistic missiles and armed drones.

Senior sources in the Iran-aligned camp told Reuters the Houthi attacks were part of an effort to put pressure on Washington to get Israel to halt the Gaza offensive, a goal that Iran shares with Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region.

One of the sources, who is based in Tehran, said Houthi representatives had discussed their attacks with Iranian officials during a meeting in Tehran in November, agreeing to carry out actions in a "controlled" way that would help force an end to the Gaza war. The source was briefed on the matter.

Another of the sources said Tehran did not seek "all-out war in the region" that would risk drawing it in directly.

A Houthi spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment. Iran has denied being involved in the attacks. Iranian officials did not respond to a request for comment on the Houthi attacks.

DESTROYER DOWNS DRONES

The United States and Britain have condemned the attacks on shipping, blaming Iran for its role in supporting the Houthis. Tehran says its allies make their decisions independently.

In one of the latest incidents, three commercial vessels came under attack in international waters on Sunday. The Houthis said they had fired at what they said were two Israeli vessels. Israel denied any link to the ships.

A U.S. Navy destroyer, the Carney, shot down three drones as it answered distress calls from the vessels, which the U.S. military said were connected to 14 separate nations.

The Pentagon said on Monday the Carney had taken action as a drone was headed in its direction, but that it could not assess if the warship was the intended target.

Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh stopped short of using language that could suggest any imminent U.S. retaliation against the Houthis. Asked if the United States might retaliate, Singh said: "If we decide to take action against the Houthis, it will of course be at a time and place of our choosing."

An Iranian diplomat said Tehran and Washington had exchanged messages through intermediaries about Houthi attacks since the start of the Hamas-Israel war. The diplomat, who was involved in exchanging the messages, said both called for restraint.

Iran on Tuesday denied any role in attacks or actions against U.S. forces.

(Additional reporting by Steve Holland in Washington; Writing by Tom Perry; Editing by Alison Williams)
FILE PHOTO: Members of the French riot police take part in a training exercise to handle violent demonstrations, in Ris-Orangis, south of Paris, as the 'Yellow Vests' and anti health pass protests continue in France, August 30, 2021. REUTERS/Benoit Tessi

By Layli Foroudi

PARIS (Reuters) -French police conducted identity checks on a "massive" scale in 2021, despite not having a doctrine to define their objectives or good practice during such checks, France's public audit office, the Cour des comptes, said in a report on Wednesday.

The report detailed for the first time the number of ID checks carried out annually by police - 47 million in 2021 - a number that the president of the Cour des Comptes Pierre Moscovici described as "massive". This number has been stable since 2018, the report said.

The Cour des Comptes is France's supreme administrative audit institution and this report was carried out at the request of France's human rights watchdog, the Defenseur des droits.

Despite its widespread use and central place in policing, "there is no doctrine on ID checks, [to define] why we do it," said Moscovici, adding that "the absence of reflection is surprising" given public debate around its use and possible abuse.

Claire Hedon, the head of Defenseur des droits, told Reuters that this was an important report, which should impel the government to change public policy and improve traceability of ID checks.

"An ID check is the interruption of a person's freedom, and so there must be a good reason for it - and I don't know if we can justify 47 million ID checks," she said, adding that previous estimates were around 10 million per year.

The government and police came under international scrutiny when a teenager of North African descent was shot dead during a traffic stop in June, stoking debates over police violence and discrimination towards France's urban communities of immigrant background.

At the time, the U.N. Committee for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination decried a "continuing practice of racial profiling" and urged France to address "structural and systemic causes of racial discrimination" in the police.

The audit office said it was unable to evaluate whether there was a practice of racial profiling, given that the collection of ethnicity-related data is largely banned in France.

However, it suggested that police oversight bodies should be "pro-active and creative" in thinking of ways to measure possible profiling, noting that the country's highest administrative court concluded it is "widespread".

Their count of 47 million ID checks is based on the number of times an officer consults two databases, for wanted individuals and the driving licence registry. However, the audit office notes this is incomplete due to partial records and recommends putting in place "exhaustive" documentation.

The auditors found that police training devotes little attention to how to evaluate whether an ID check is necessary, and how it should be carried out. Only 300 officers a year take courses on ID checks as part of continuous training.

They said officers often also search individuals for drugs during ID checks, even though French law states that such searches only be used for security reasons or to check for a weapon.

The audit office said it didn't seek to evaluate the results or beneficial outcome of the 47 million ID checks in 2021.

One concrete result they noted was that 0.3% of ID checks in which the wanted list was consulted by the gendarmerie led to a wanted person being identified. The national police does not keep a similar count.

(Reporting by Layli Foroudi; Editing by Bernadette Baum and Toby Chopra)
By Angeliki Koutantou and Tuvan Gumrukcu

ATHENS (Reuters) - Greece and Turkey on Thursday agreed to reboot their relations, establishing a roadmap designed to usher in a new era of closer ties between the two NATO allies but historical foes.

In a landmark visit of Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan to Greece, the longtime sparring partners agreed to focus on pursuing good neighbourly relations, keep open channels of communication, seek military confidence-building measures to eliminate sources of tension, boost trade volumes and work on issues which have kept them apart, notably in the Aegean Sea.

"There is no issue between us that is unsolvable. So long as we focus on the big picture and don't end up being like those who cross the sea and drown in the river," Erdogan said after a meeting with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens.

"We want to turn the Aegean into a sea of peace. Through the joint steps we will take as Turkey and Greece, we want to be an example to the world," he added.

After customary verbal jousting over recent years, chilly relations between the two neighbours thawed markedly after Greece swiftly dispatched aid in the wake of a devastating earthquake in Turkey in February.

By Greco-Turkish standards, Thursday's summit was a remarkable lovefest without precedence, and a far cry from Erdogan's last visit in 2017 where both sides reeled off a litany of historical grievances stretching back to the crumbling days of the Ottoman Empire over a century ago.

The meeting of Mitsotakis and Erdogan went on longer than anticipated, and Mitsotakis addressed Erdogan as "Dear Tayyip". Erdogan said he expected to receive Mitsotakis in Ankara.

The NATO allies want to raise bilateral trade volume to $10 billion from $5 billion, while Erdogan said both countries could benefit from high-level meetings held annually.

'HISTORICAL RESPONSIBILITY'

"Geography and history has dictated that we live in the same neighbourhood ... But I feel a historical responsibility to utilise this opportunity to bring the two states side-by-side, just as our borders are," Mitsotakis said.

Greece and Turkey have long been at odds over issues including where their continental shelves start and end, energy resources, flights over the Aegean Sea, and the ethnically partitioned island of Cyprus

But both countries want to demonstrate that they are willing to repair their relations.

Turkey has been seeking EU membership for more than two decades. Since being re-elected in May in a tight vote amid an economic crisis, Erdogan has said Turkey remains committed to improving relations with its Western partners and allies.

Ankara has been working to draw foreign investors back, while mending fences with regional and Western actors, an issue that has long impacted the Turkish economy.

Following a debt crisis that rocked the euro currency zone, Greece aims to regain its footing and appear as a pillar of eastern Mediterranean stability in a geopolitical environment changing due to the war in Ukraine and the Gaza conflict.

On Thursday, Greece re-established an automatic visa system for Turkish nationals to visit 10 of its islands.

Mitsotakis said meetings would continue and a further step in the relaunched bilateral dialogue could be coming closer to a deal to demarcate continental shelves and related economic exploitation zones (EEZ) - when conditions allow.

An offshore EEZ could be a precursor to exploration of oil or gas. Further east, towards Israel, the eastern Mediterranean basin has yielded some of the world's largest natural gas finds in recent years.

The two countries came to the brink of war in the 1990s, and in recent years have argued over energy resources in the Eastern Mediterranean, defence issues, migration and the acquisition of fighter jets, which interrupted cooperation talks.

But "earthquake diplomacy" - recalling another thaw under similar circumstances in 1999 - appears to have turned the tide, again.

Striking an upbeat tone, Erdogan said Turkey and Greece should focus on the positives, and less on the negatives.

"It will be much more beneficial for the future if we look at things from a glass half-full perspective," Erdogan told Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou.

(Reporting by Renee Maltezou, Lefteris Papadimas, Karolina Tagaris; writing by Michele Kambas; editing by Angus MacSwan and Mark Heinrich)
FILE PHOTO: SAG-AFTRA actors and Writers Guild of America (WGA) writers walk the picket line outside Disney Studios in Burbank, California, U.S., July 25, 2023. REUTERS/Mike Blake

By Danielle Broadway and Lisa Richwine

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) -Members of the SAG-AFTRA actors union approved a three-year contract with major studios on Tuesday, formally ending six months of Hollywood labor disputes that halted film and television production.

SAG-AFTRA said 78% of those who voted supported the deal with Netflix Inc, Walt Disney Co and other members of the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP).

Just 38% of eligible SAG-AFTRA members cast a ballot, the union said in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter. SAG-AFTRA represents roughly 160,000 actors and other media professionals.

The new contract provides for pay raises and streaming bonuses that union leaders said amounted to more than $1 billion over three years. It also includes guardrails around the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in filmmaking, though some actors complained that the AI protections were not sufficient.

"This is a golden age for SAG-AFTRA, and our union has never been more powerful," the union's president, "The Nanny" actor Fran Drescher, said in a statement.

SAG-AFTRA members walked off the job in July and reached a tentative agreement with major studios in November. Actors started returning to work immediately after the preliminary deal.

Film and television writers also went on strike this year, walking out ahead of the actors union. After a five-month walkout, the writers approved a new contract in October with 99% of the vote.

Some actors had objected to AI provisions in the contract. The deal requires studios to obtain permission from celebrities to use their digital likenesses and to pay them for the use. Critics argued that the language allows creation of "synthetic performers" that could eliminate the need for many human actors.

The dual strikes shut down a large swath of film and TV production, halted late-night talk shows and forced broadcast networks to fill their fall schedules with repeats and reality shows. Major movies including "Dune: Part Two" and Marvel's "Thunderbolts" also were delayed.

Hollywood studios welcomed the contract ratification, saying the agreement offered "historic gains and protections."

"With this vote, the industry and the jobs it supports will be able to return in full force," the AMPTP said in a statement.

SAG-AFTRA noted that other Hollywood unions representing crew members, musicians and drivers will start negotiations on new contracts next year.

"They will be able to use our groundbreaking gains as leverage in their own bargaining efforts," SAG-AFTRA said.

(Reporting by Danielle Broadway and Lisa Richwine; Editing by Leslie Adler & Shri Navaratnam)
BUDAPEST (Reuters) -Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's chief of staff on Wednesday said he wanted to arrange a meeting between the Ukrainian and Hungarian leaders amid Budapest's opposition to a proposal to start talks on European Union membership for Kyiv.

Andriy Yermak said he had spoken to Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto about a possible meeting between Zelenskiy and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban - after Orban and his party publicly opposed starting membership talks.

Yermak, writing on Telegram, said the two had agreed "to work on setting a suitable date for such a meeting".

Szijjarto said in a statement that Budapest was open to such a meeting "but it only makes sense if there is a chance that the meeting would have a positive outcome."

"For this serious preparations and preliminary discussions are needed," the Hungarian statement added.

Unanimous approval at an EU summit next week is needed to proceed with membership talks for Ukraine and ex-Soviet Moldova as recommended by the European Commission. Kyiv sees EU membership as a key step, 21 months into Russia's invasion of Ukraine, of moving closer to the West.

Yermak, currently in Washington with a Ukrainian delegation discussing U.S. aid to Kyiv, said Ukraine "was counting on a positive decision" from the EU meeting.

He said parliament in Kyiv would consider in the coming days legislation critical to Ukraine's membership bid. "We are fulfilling our obligations in full," Yermak wrote.

Orban has warned that EU leaders could fail to reach a consensus on starting membership talks with Ukraine and said the issue should not be put on the summit's agenda.

Distrust of Orban is high in Brussels after run-ins during his 13 years in power over the rights of gay people and migrants and tighter state controls over academics, the courts and media. Billions of euros of EU funds for Hungary being frozen.

A parliamentary resolution from his ruling FIDESZ party on Monday said EU expansion "should remain an objective process based on rules and performance.

"The start of membership talks with Ukraine should be based on a consensus among European Union member states... The conditions for this are not present today."

FIDESZ said EU leaders should make a thorough assessment of how Ukraine's possible membership would affect cohesion and agricultural policies within the bloc, of which the EU's poorer members, including Hungary, are among the main beneficiaries.

An inflow of Ukrainian grains into the EU triggered protests from farmers in eastern Europe last year, while Polish truckers have blockaded border crossings with Ukraine, calling on the EU to restore permits limiting transit for Ukrainian competitors.

Orban will meet French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Thursday, ahead of the summit, his press chief said.

"Orban has committed to a very public strategy of creating chaos and panic ahead of the EU Council Summit. The spectacle he is producing is designed to create stress and maximize his leverage before EU leaders meet," said Roger Hilton, a research fellow at GLOBSEC, a think tank.

(Reporting by Boldizsar Gyori, Krisztina Than, Gergely Szakacs and Ron Popeski; Editing by Alex Richardson, Christina Fincher and Diane Craft)
People react, as wounded Palestinians are brought into Nasser hospital, following Israeli strikes on Ma'an school east of Khan Younis, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip

By Bassam Masoud and Nidal al-Mughrabi

GAZA/CAIRO (Reuters) - Israeli troops fought fierce battles with Hamas in an expanding offensive into southern Gaza on Wednesday, forcing tens of thousands of displaced Palestinian civilians to cram into a city close to the Egyptian border to avoid Israeli bombardment.

However, many feared they would not be safe in Rafah either with their options for refuge dwindling, and at least nine people were killed on Wednesday in the Israeli shelling of a house in the city, Palestinian medical sources said.

Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians already fled from northern Gaza to the south during the two-month-old war between Israel and the Palestinian enclave's ruling Islamist militant movement that Israel is trying to wipe out.

The latest exodus leaves many displaced Palestinians increasingly cornered near the fortified Egyptian border, in an area that has been deemed safe by Israel's military in leaflets dropped by its aircraft as well as phone and online messages.

"The Israelis are lying. No place in Gaza is safe and tomorrow they are going to come after us in Rafah," Samir Abu Ali, a 45-year-old father of five, told Reuters by telephone from Rafah.

Israeli forces were operating in the heart of southern Gaza's largest city, Khan Younis, for the first time, its military said in a statement on Wednesday evening.

Soldiers had begun "targeted raids" in central Khan Younis, which the statement identified as a symbol of Hamas' military and administrative rule. "The soldiers eliminated terrorists, destroyed terrorist infrastructure and located weapons."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israeli forces were encircling the Khan Younis house of Hamas leader Yahya Al-Sinwar. "His house may not be his fortress and he can escape but it's only a matter of time before we get him," Netanyahu said in a recorded video statement.

Khan Younis residents said Israeli tanks had neared Sinwar's home but it was not known whether he was there. Israel has said it believes many Hamas leaders and fighters are holed up in underground tunnels.

Hamas' armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, said combat was fierce. Residents said Israeli bombing intensified overnight, killing and wounding civilians, and that tanks were battling Palestinian militants north and east of Khan Younis.

HOMELESS SLEEP OUTSIDE

Israeli warplanes also bombed targets across the densely populated coastal strip in one of the heaviest phases of the war in the two months since Israel began its military campaign following a deadly cross-border Hamas assault.

Qatar-based Al Jazeera Media Network said an Israeli bombardment of Jabalia Camp in northern Gaza killed 22 relatives of its Gaza correspondent Moamen Al-Sharafi, and it condemned the operation.

The journalist, who was elsewhere during the bombardment, later appeared live on Al Jazeera. The victims included his parents, three siblings, his children and other members of his extended family.

Hundreds of thousands of people made homeless in the north were desperately seeking shelter in the diminishing number of places in the south designated as safe areas by Israel.

The U.N. humanitarian office said in a report on Wednesday that most of the homeless people in Rafah, about 13 km (8 miles) south of Khan Younis on the Egyptian border, were sleeping rough due to a lack of tents although the U.N. had managed to distribute a few hundred.

The U.N. report said that while some aid had entered Gaza from Egypt through the Rafah crossing, the surge in hostilities since a week-long truce collapsed on Dec. 1 was hampering distribution. Israel late Wednesday said it would allow a minimal increase in fuel allowed into Gaza.

Israel unleashed its military campaign in response to a surprise Oct. 7 incursion by Hamas fighters who rampaged through Israeli towns, killing 1,200 people and seizing 240 hostages, according to Israel's tally.

Figures from Gaza's Health Ministry put the death toll in Gaza at 16,015, including 43 reported by one hospital on Tuesday and 73 by another on Wednesday.

But since Monday the ministry has not released daily casualty updates for all of Gaza, leaving it unclear whether the new overall toll was comprehensive. Amid the conflict, loss of staff and damage to information and health systems have interfered with data gathering.

Israel said on Wednesday 85 of its soldiers had been killed since its armoured forces invaded Gaza five weeks ago.

CEASEFIRE RESOLUTION AT U.N.

As Israel broadened its ground onslaught on Wednesday after largely taking control of north Gaza last month, Palestinian medics said Gaza's hospitals were overflowing with dead and wounded, many of them women and children, and supplies were running out.

Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City, in north Gaza, was overwhelmed "by the growing numbers of wounded who are bleeding to death," Gaza's Health Ministry spokesman Ashraf Al-Qidra said in a statement.

"The Israeli occupation is deliberately liquidating the healthcare presence in northern Gaza.... Eight hundred thousand northern Gaza residents don't have health services," he said.

Israel has shelled and conducted military operations in and around hospitals, such as Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, because it says Hamas hides fighters and command centres in them, which Hamas denies.

Israel says it seeks to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, according to international law, though critics and even its closest ally, the U.S., say it needs to do more.

In Geneva, the U.N. human rights chief said the situation was "apocalyptic" with the risk that serious rights violations were being committed by both sides.

Leaders of the Group of Seven nations including Israel's close ally the United States called for further humanitarian truces "to address the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and minimise civilian casualties".

The United Nations Security Council received a UAE-drafted resolution on Wednesday that demanded an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire" with a vote sought on Friday.

(Reporting by Nidal Al Mughrabi in Cairo, Maggie Fick in Beirut, Dan Williams and Henriette Chacar in Jerusalem, and Reuters bureaux; Writing by Angus MacSwan, Mark Heinrich and Cynthia Osterman; Editing by Timothy Heritage, Alison Williams and Diane Craft)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. Iran has signed a memorandum with its domestic partners to build a new oil refinery in the western province of Kermanshah, Trend reports.

According to the memorandum, the Anahita oil refinery will cost $2 billion and will be financed by the National Development Fund of Iran, the countrys sovereign wealth fund.

The project will be carried out by Khatam al-Anbiya Construction Headquarter, a conglomerate affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

The memorandum was signed on December 4 at the Iranian Oil Ministry in the presence of officials from the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) and Sepah Bank, which will act as the intermediary bank for the fund transfer.

The Anahita oil refinery will have a processing capacity of 150,000 barrels per day of crude oil and will produce a variety of petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel, propylene, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and base oil.

The refinery will also produce petrochemicals such as benzene, xylene, toluene, and needle coke. The refinery is expected to be completed in four years and to pay back the investment in 8.3 years.

The Iranian government had approved the construction of the Anahita oil refinery in 2006, but the project had been delayed due to sanctions and other issues. The refinery is part of Irans plan to increase its refining capacity and reduce its dependence on imported gasoline. The refinery will also create jobs and boost the economic development of the Kermanshah province, which borders Iraq.

---

Follow the author on X (Twitter):@BaghishovElnur
La Scala opera house re-opens to the public after being closed due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, in Milan, Italy, May 10, 2021. REUTERS/Flavio Lo Scalzo/File Photo

ROME (Reuters) - Italian opera singing has been added to the United Nations' cultural heritage list, a prestigious accolade for the four-centuries-old art mixing costume drama and music.

U.N. culture agency UNESCO said on Wednesday it had included opera under its category of Intangible Cultural Heritage, which already features other famed Italian practices such as pizza-making.

Italian opera developed around the late 1500s and early 1600s in Florence, at the court of the Medici family. It typically involves intricate plots, elaborate staging and virtuoso singing.

Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano hailed the UNESCO move hours before it was formalised.

"This is something historic...a great recognition of 'bel canto' (beautiful singing) opera in the UNESCO intangible heritage list and we must be proud of it," he said on RAI public radio.

(Reporting by Alvise Armellini, editing by Gavin Jones and Angus MacSwan)
Flags flutter in the wind during the opening ceremony of the Belt and Road Forum (BRF) to mark the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China October 18, 2023. REUTERS/Edgar Su

By Crispian Balmer and Angelo Amante

ROME (Reuters) - Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Thursday that Italy can improve trade and economic ties with China even after Rome's decision to leave Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

"I think that we should... improve our cooperation with China on trade, the economy," Meloni told reporters in her first public comments on the issue since Italy informed China it was quitting the BRI.

"The tool of the (BRI) ... has not produced the results that were expected," she added.

Italy in 2019 became the first and so far only major Western nation to join the trade and investment programme, ignoring warnings from the United States that it might allow China to take control of sensitive technologies and vital infrastructure.

However, when Meloni took office last year, she said she wanted to withdraw from the deal, which was championed by President Xi Jinping.

The 2019 accord expires in March 2024 and an Italian government source said on Wednesday that Rome had sent Beijing a letter "in recent days" informing China that it would not be renewing.

China's foreign ministry said on Thursday that the BRI has "enormous appeal and global influence", without singling out Italy for criticism.

"China firmly opposes smearing that damages Belt and Road cooperation," foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told reporters at a routine briefing.

NO TRADE BONANZA

A second Italian government source, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue, noted that "other G7 nations have closer relations with China than we do, despite the fact they were never in (the BRI)."

Italy will assume the presidency of the G7 in 2024.

More than 100 countries have signed agreements with China to cooperate on BRI infrastructure and building projects since it was launched in 2013. The then Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte hoped for a trade bonanza when he signed up in 2019, but Chinese firms were the main beneficiaries, data shows.

Italian exports to China totalled 16.4 billion euros ($17.7 billion) last year from 13 billion euros in 2019. By contrast, Chinese exports to Italy rose to 57.5 billion from 31.7 billion over the same period, Italian data showed.

Italy's main euro zone trading partners France and Germany exported significantly more to China last year, despite not being part of the BRI, which is modelled on the old Silk Road that linked China to the West.

Looking to maintain strategic ties, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani visited Beijing in September and President Sergio Mattarella is due to visit China next year.

Meloni herself has said she wants to go to Beijing, but no date has been fixed.

Successive governments in Rome signalled their doubts about the pact by vetoing some proposed takeovers or limiting the sway of Chinese companies over their Italian counterparts.

Meloni, who heads a conservative coalition, has been keen to burnish her credentials as a committed pro-NATO leader and a government source said that she had assured U.S. President Joe Biden earlier this year that Italy would leave the BRI.

(Reporting by Angelo Amante, Crispian Balmer and Giuseppe Fonte; Additional reporting by Beijing Newsroom and Laurie Chen in Beijing and Alvise Armellini in Rome; writing by Giulia Segreti and Crispian Balmer; Editing by Keith Weir, Toby Chopra Barbara Lewis, Alexandra Hudson)
Surgeons use magnetic surgical robot arms, new technology instruments that work with magnetic fields, during an operation at a public hospital, in Santiago, Chile, December 4, 2023. REUTERS/Ivan Alvarado

SANTIAGO (Reuters) - A robot that uses powerful magnets to perform less invasive and more efficient surgeries completed its first international procedure, a gallbladder removal, at a public hospital in Chile this week, according to the company that developed the technology.

The MARS surgical platform at the Luis Tisne hospital in Santiago allows surgeons to "attach a small magnet to organs, like the liver, and use robotic arms with high powered magnets on the patients belly to manipulate organs out of the way," according to Levita Magnetics, the California-based start-up that created robot.

The system also "gives the surgeon control of the camera, which allows for better visualization, it is much more stable. And in surgery, seeing is everything," said Alberto Rodriguez-Navarro, doctor and founder of Levita Magnetics, the California-based start-up that developed the MARS platform.

"It is better for the patient, with fewer incisions and less pain, faster recovery," Rodriguez-Navarro told Reuters after the surgery.

"For the surgeon, it's better since it allows him to be more efficient and, for the system, it allows more surgeries to be done per day."

The platform was cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in September and conducted its first commercial surgery at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio in October.

(Reuters Television report, written by Natalia Ramos; Editing by Aurora Ellis)
FILE PHOTO: A hand is silhouetted in front of a computer screen in this picture illustration taken in Berlin May 21, 2013. REUTERS/Pawel Kopczynski/File Photo

SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korean police are investigating whether a North Korean hacker group, accused of stealing data from 14 entities, obtained information on defence technology including an anti-aircraft laser, a Seoul city police official said on Wednesday.

The probe, which is being carried out in conjunction with the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), is trying to determine the extent of the data obtained by the group known as Andariel, Jeong Jin-ho, who heads a team at the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency investigating the case, told Reuters.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury in 2019 listed Andariel as a North Korean state-sponsored hacking group, focused on conducting malicious cyber operations on foreign businesses, government agencies and the defence industry.

Local media reported this week that the cache of data included key South Korean defence secrets.

The entities targeted included South Korean defence firms, research institutes and pharmaceutical companies, an earlier police statement said. Some 250 files, or 1.2 terabytes of information and data, were taken by the hackers, it said.

A proxy server set up by the group was accessed in a district of the North Korean capital Pyongyang 83 times between last December and March, police said.

The server was used to access the websites of the firms and institutions, with the group taking advantage of a South Korean hosting service that rents servers to unidentified clients.

The group also extorted 470 million won ($357,866) worth of bitcoin from three South Korean and foreign firms in ransomware attacks, police said.

North Korean hackers have been blamed for cyberattacks netting millions of dollars, though Pyongyang previously has denied being involved in cybercrime.

A foreign woman was being investigated in connection with the ransomware attacks after some of the bitcoin were transferred through her bank account and withdrawn at a bank in China, police said. She has denied any wrongdoing.

($1 = 1,313.3400 won)

(Reporting by Hyunsu Yim; Editing by Ed Davies and Bernadette Baum)
The logo of a Tesla electric vehicle is placed on a car outside a dealership in Drogenbos, Belgium November 25, 2023. REUTERS/Yves Herman

OSLO (Reuters) -Norway's largest private sector labour union said on Wednesday it would later this month start blocking transit shipments of Tesla cars meant for the Swedish market, as part of a growing Nordic movement to support striking mechanics in Sweden.

Swedish unions led by IF Metall have taken industrial action against Tesla since October to try to force the U.S. electric vehicle maker to sign collective bargaining agreements with mechanics.

Dockworkers in Sweden already refuse to unload Tesla cars arriving by ship, and broad groups of Swedish electricians, cleaners, postal workers and at least one maker of auto components also said they would deny the company their services.

Norwegian union Fellesforbundet said it intended to send a "clear signal to Tesla" and do what was necessary to ensure that any vehicle shipments via Norway to Sweden were blocked, but declined to say exactly which measures it might take.

"The right to demand a collective agreement is an obvious part of our working life and we can't accept that Tesla places itself on the outside," Fellesforbundet leader Joern Eggum said in a statement.

The Norwegian union's actions would begin on Dec. 20.

Tesla has a policy of not agreeing to collective bargaining and says its employees have as good or better terms than those the Swedish union is demanding.

But Nordic labour unions say Tesla's refusal to play by long-established norms in the region challenge their power and workers' rights to negotiate wages, vacation, overtime pay and other conditions.

On Tuesday, Denmark's 3F labour union also said it would support the Swedish mechanics by refusing to unload or transport cars made by Tesla for customers in Sweden.

The Norwegian and Danish unions said their actions would only affect cars that are meant for the Swedish market.

(Reporting by Nerijus Adomaitis, editing by Terje Solsvik and Barbara Lewis)
FILE PHOTO: People protest outside the prison where Peru's former President Alberto Fujimori is being held, in Lima, Peru December 6, 2023. REUTERS/Sebastian Castaneda/File Photo

LIMA (Reuters) -Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, who was serving a 25-year prison term for human rights abuses during his decade-long rule in the 1990s, was released from jail late on Wednesday despite criticism from an international human rights court.

Peru's highest court on Tuesday ruled in favor of an appeal to restore a 2017 pardon for Fujimori, 85, on humanitarian grounds. The Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) had earlier requested the move be blocked.

Fujimori served around 16 years after being extradited from Chile in 2007.

The former president, whose doctors say has serious health issues, was filmed on Wednesday leaving the prison wearing a breathing tube and a mask. His children hugged him before he got into a car, which took him to the home of his eldest daughter and political heiress Keiko.

"Today we finally have our father home," Keiko said through a megaphone at the door of her home, where her father is now expected to reside. "There is no hatred or resentment in my heart, but gratitude."

As Fujimori left the prison, local TV footage showed a crowd of supporters cheering and pushing against his car as it tried to leave the prison's premises on the outskirts of Lima.

"It was time for this injustice against Fujimori to end, thanks to him our country is on its feet," Catalina Ponce, a Fujimori supporter waiting outside the prison, said earlier in the day.

Supporters of Fujimori believe he saved Peru from terrorism and economic collapse.

Critics, however, say he abused democracy and committed atrocities during his government's battle against the Shining Path guerrillas.

Fujimori was convicted in 2009 of ordering the massacre of 25 people in 1991 and 1992 while his government fought the Shining Path.

But he was pardoned on Christmas Eve in 2017 by the president of the time, Pedro Pablo Kuczynski. He walked free for about nine months before a court declared it null.

Since then, the pardon has been repeatedly annulled or suspended by lower courts after pressure from the Inter-American Court and victims' families, but Peru's constitutional court restored the pardon earlier this week.

Shortly after the order, the president of the Inter-American Court asked Peru to stop the pardon until it had "all the necessary elements" to analyze whether conditions were met.

Fujimori's release comes as approval for the government of President Dina Boluarte has sunk into single-digits and to its lowest level in the year since her predecessor was ousted.

Boluarte is also facing a constitutional complaint by the country's attorney general for dozens of deaths that took place during anti-government protests after she took office.

(Reporting by Marco Aquino; Writing by Sarah Morland and Isabel Woodford; Editing by Mark Porter, Brendan O'Boyle and Neil Fullick)
A new Renault Twingo electric car is unveiled during Renault Group capital market day for its new electric vehicle unit Ampere, in Paris, France, November 15, 2023. REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes/File Photo

By Gilles Guillaume

PARIS (Reuters) - Renault hopes it can lift the curse of its negative value next year thanks to the creation of two specialised businesses, Ampere and Horse, and its revamped alliance with Nissan and Mitsubishi, several top executives said.

Although the French automaker sold more than two million vehicles last year and posted record profits for the first half of 2023, investors effectively are valuing the company's core business at less than zero.

The group's market capitalisation is currently around 10.6 billion euros ($11.43 billion), much lower than European rivals. Stellantis is worth about 64 billion euros and Volkswagen 57 billion euros, based on LSEG data.

Renault's 12-month forward price-earnings ratio - a key metric for valuing shares - is 2.8, the lowest among European carmakers.

Excluding the value of Nissan shares held by Renault (6.6 billion euros), the net cash position of its automotive business (2.2 billion as of June 30) and financial services of its Mobilize unit (6.1 billion euros on June 30), the remaining "core" value stands at minus 4.3 billion euros for Renault's automotive assets, based on Reuters' calculations and Renault data.

"It is not up to me decide what is the core value of the company," CEO Luca de Meo said at press conference on Wednesday with Nissan and Mitsubishi on their new alliance.

"My job is to actually make sure we do the right things so that the investors and the market understand there is a lot of substance in Renault."

De Meo hopes the listing of Ampere, a "pure player" in electric vehicles and software earmarked for an IPO next spring if market conditions permit, will help give that substance.

In September, de Meo mentioned a possible valuation of up to 10 billion euros, although some analysts valued Ampere at 3-4 billion euros.

Value should also be found in Renault's legacy combustion engine business Horse, co-owned with China's Geely, and awaiting an investment from Saudi Aramco.

Sources have previously told Reuters the Saudi oil group plans to take a stake around 20% in the joint venture. How large that investment and stake is - which de Meo said could be announced at the end of the year or in early 2024 - will impact its valuation.

"We hope it will gradually become more difficult to say: Horse is worth this much, Ampere is worth so much (...) Everything else is worth minus," CFO Thierry Pieton told Reuters last month.

SIMPLER LINKS TO NISSAN

Renault's negative valuation problem goes back years. The automaker suffers from conglomerate syndrome, where the whole is worth less than the sum of its parts.

To simplify their reading of Renault, investors have repeatedly advocated either a merger with Nissan, or a separation between the French and Japanese partners.

This year Renault and Nissan unveiled a vast restructuring of their alliance, which was founded more than twenty years ago, with a simpler capital structure, the end of common purchasing and more pragmatic ambitions based on individual projects and regions.

"For sure, this movement on the alliance, I think could help," de Meo said. "But we did not do that for the core valuation, we did it (to) find a set-up that would enable us to be more effective, and fast, and concrete."

In a client note this week, Bernstein analysts wrote that Renault's valuation remained surprisingly low despite a 16% year-to-date rise in its stock price.

($1 = 0.9272 euros)

(Reporting by Gilles Guillaume, writing by Nick Carey. Editing by Jane Merriman)
FILE PHOTO: A Lloyd's waiter rings the Lutine Bell during an event to mark accession of Britain's King Charles at the Lloyd's Building in the City of London, Britain, September 15, 2022. REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier/File Photo

By Carolyn Cohn and Noor Zainab Hussain

LONDON (Reuters) - Insurers grappling with the rising risk of physical attacks on businesses due to war or civil disorder are reconsidering the breadth and scope of such cover in potential conflict hot spots.

Political violence cover, which businesses can take out to insure against physical damage caused by war, terror attacks, strikes or riots, can be bought as a standalone policy alongside property insurance or as part of a political risk package.

However, international underwriters have largely pulled out from offering such policies in Ukraine following Russia's invasion and heavily scaled back business in Israel since its conflict with Hamas, industry sources told Reuters.

They are now weighing reduced coverage for other regions seen as potentially vulnerable to unrest in an effort to avoid losses, including in Taiwan, amid fears of an attack by China.

"There's a chance that the reaction to Ukraine and others is going to have more of an impact on other parts of the world that are not live situations right now but could be live in the future like Taiwan," said Tarique Nageer, terrorism placement advisory leader at broker Marsh.

Many of the political violence policies are written in the Lloyd's of London insurance market, as well as by insurers based in the United States and Bermuda, while separate war policies are offered in aviation and shipping.

"You can't get anything in Ukraine at this point in time. For places like Taiwan, available capacity has dropped maybe 50%, if not more," Nageer added.

Insurers had reduced political violence and broader political risk cover in Taiwan after Lloyd's asked its members earlier this year to identify potential exposure to so-called realistic disaster scenarios related to conflict in the region.

Lloyd's chief executive John Neal told Reuters in September that the market's exposure to Taiwan was "manageable".

'HOUSE ON FIRE'

Since political violence policies are generally annual, insurers can make fairly rapid decisions not to renew them.

But some have even switched to offering monthly cover in Israel, said Hamish Greenwood, head of crisis management at insurance broker McGill and Partners.

"Some syndicates offered 12-month cover just before Russia invaded Ukraine and people got burnt," he said.

Others have dropped cover altogether, particularly for new clients, with insurance sources concerned about the conflict widening to neighbouring countries such as Lebanon.

Greenwood said one client in Haifa, in northern Israel, who previously bought protection against $100 million of damage was now struggling to get $10 million of cover.

"Effectively, you're insuring a house on fire," he added.

Rates for political violence cover in Israel were already higher than other parts of the world due to the perceived risk.

"There's a lot more markets who are reluctant to write (cover for) Israel now than they were before. Israel may have seen 75% reduction in available capacity," Nageer said.

Some rates have risen by 10 times or more in the past few months, Greenwood said, although an underwriter who declined to be named said rate rises were likely to be lower in parts of Israel further from Palestinian territories.

And insurers say business has not dried up completely.

"For longstanding clients who've bought cover, you don't want necessarily to drop the cover," said Roddy Barnett, head of political risks and trade credit at insurer Beazley.

"We have been quoting on a little bit of business in Lebanon and in Israel, it's not like the market has run away."

(Reporting by Noor Zainab Hussain in Bengaluru and Carolyn Cohn in London; Editing by Sinead Cruise and Alexander Smith)
Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates December 6, 2023. Sputnik/Sergei Savostyanov/Pool via REUTERS

(Reuters) - President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said ties with Saudi Arabia were at an "unprecedented level" as he began a hastily arranged meeting in Riyadh with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

In introductory remarks shown on Russian television, Putin thanked the crown prince for his invitation, saying he had originally expected Mohammed bin Salman to come to Moscow, "but there were changes to plans".

He said the next meeting should take place in Moscow, and that the two countries had good, stable relations in the political, economic and humanitarian spheres.

"Nothing can prevent the development of our friendly relations," Putin told the crown prince.

The talks are expected to include discussion of the Gaza conflict and cooperation between the two countries in the OPEC+ group of oil producers.

"Of course for all of us it's very important now to exchange information and assessments of what is happening in the region," Putin said.

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Kevin Liffey)
By Elena Fabrichnaya and Alexander Marrow

MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia's top lender Sberbank will invest more than 450 billion roubles ($4.84 billion) in IT in the coming three years, its financial chief said on Wednesday, as the bank continues its push to develop domestic technology solutions.

CEO German Gref, placed artificial intelligence and digital transformation at the heart of the bank's new three-year strategy, as Russia adjusts to life without Western technology after sanctions over the conflict in Ukraine.

Taras Skvortsov, the bank's head of finance, said profits generated from artificial intelligence (AI) in 2024-26 would amount to about 800 billion roubles and that overall IT investments would increase by 1-1/2 times in that period.

Sberbank, majority owned by the Russian state, is on course for record earnings this year, bouncing back from an almost 80% drop in profits as Western sanctions rattled Russia's financial sector in 2022.

"On the three-year horizon we will ensure a high return on our capital, which should be above 22%," Gref said. "And we should ensure a high level of dividend payments, at 50% of our net profit."

Sberbank's return on equity (ROE) this year has been around 26-27%. The bank did not pay a 2021 dividend last year on the recommendation of the central bank and government, but announced a record 565 billion rouble ($6.09 billion) payout in March.

'DIGITAL DIVIDE'

With 108 million retail clients and 3.2 million corporates, Sberbank tends to grow in line with Russia's economy, which Skvortsov said the bank sees growing 1.2% annually in the coming years, with inflation reaching the central bank's 4% target in 2025 and interest rates dropping to 8% next year, from 15% now.

Skvortsov said the bank's net interest margin was seen averaging more than 5.7% in 2024, in spite of lower rates.

The bank's shares fell 3.2% as of 1030 GMT to a one-month low, underperforming the wider market.

Gref, who has overseen investments into AI, cloud services, big data and smart devices since taking the helm at Sberbank in 2007, had been pushing the bank's technological credentials long before Moscow sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022.

"IT investments in developing domestic solutions in 2024 will grow four times in 2024, compared to 2023," said CTO Andrei Belevtsev. "Sber invests a third of its budget in IT annually."

Aside from generating profits, Gref said the bank's priority in the future was to use artificial intelligence to move most operational decisions online.

"We are creating a smart assistant for all areas of activity," Gref said. "(We will) close the digital divide in the country."

($1 = 93.0450 roubles)

(Reporting by Alexander Marrow in London and Elena Fabrichnaya in Moscow, Editing by Louise Heavens and Bernadette Baum)
By Jan Lopatka and Gabriela Baczynska

(Reuters) -Slovakia's new government led by political veteran Robert Fico agreed on Wednesday to rapidly scrap a special prosecutor's office focused corruption, sparking opposition accusations of foul play and a call from the European Commission not to rush the changes.

President Zuzana Caputova has criticised the plan to close the office as a "step backwards", and it will be closely watched in Brussels for any potential damage to the rule of law - an issue that has pitted neighbours Poland and Hungary against the European Union.

The special prosecution unit, the USP, has operated since 2004.

It has handled dozens of cases involving graft in police, judiciary and politics since 2021 while under the leadership of Daniel Lipsic, who served as interior minister in a government that took power from Fico between 2010 and 2012 - a connection that has irked Fico.

The cabinet proposed to shut the unit in a rapid legislative process that could be completed in weeks. Live cases and personnel would be transferred to other prosecutors' offices.

Fico told a press conference that the USP had violated human rights in how it carried out proceedings and had to be disbanded.

"This evil in the form of Lipsic must end, and we are doing that forcefully and thoroughly," Fico said.

Fico, who was forced to resign by mass protests in 2018 after the murder of a journalist investigating corruption, has long accused the USP of being politically biased against his SMER party and has spoken in favour of removing Lipsic. The USP also oversaw the murder investigation.

The European Commission asked Slovakia not to advance on the reform, which among other changes includes reducing sentences for some financial crimes.

"The wide-ranging scope of the intended amendments and the numerous areas of EU law concerned require a thorough and sound analysis," the Commission told Reuters.

"This is why...we have asked the Slovak government not to advance on the intended amendments as yet, and especially not to resort to a fast-track procedure without proper and thorough consultation with stakeholders at national and European level."

Among cases overseen by the USP is that of central bank governor and former SMER finance minister Peter Kazimir who has been on trial over alleged bribery, which he denies.

While in opposition, Fico himself had faced police charges, later dropped, that he used information from police and tax authorities to discredit political rivals. He said at the time it was political revenge.

Since winning the election on Sept. 30, he has repeatedly said he will act in a way acceptable to the European Commission to avoid threatening the country's access to EU funds - a punishment that Hungary and Poland have faced for damaging democratic checks and balances.

The main opposition party, Progressive Slovakia said the government was acting to "achieve impunity and revenge".

"This is blitzkrieg against the rule of law," party chief Michal Simecka told a news conference shown live on television.

"We will stand up to this sternly - in parliament, in the public space, in the European Union," Simecka said earlier in a statement.

Following the 2020 election victory of parties promising to weed out graft, a number of cases were opened against business leaders, judicial and police officers.

According to Slovak media, 40 people have been sentenced in the sweep and another 130 are being investigated or tried.

(Reporting by Jan Lopatka in Prague, additonal reporting by Gabriela Baczynska in Brussels;Editing by Alison Williams and Toby Chopra)
French police secures the access to the Bir-Hakeim bridge after a security incident in Paris, France December 3, 2023. REUTERS/Stephanie Lecocq

PARIS (Reuters) - A 26-year-old man suspected of stabbing a German tourist to death and wounding two others in Paris last weekend has been placed under formal investigation for murder and attempted murder in connection with a terrorist organisation, said the French anti-terrorism prosecutor's office on Wednesday.

The suspect, a French man identified as Armand Rajabpour-Miyandoab, had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, anti-terrorism prosecutor Jean-Francois Ricard had said earlier.

The stabbings had taken place near the Eiffel Tower last Saturday evening, in what President Emmanuel Macron had described as a "terrorist attack".

(Reporting by Dominique Vidalon; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
By Bill Trott

(Reuters) -Producer-writer Norman Lear, whose groundbreaking hit comedies such as "All in the Family" and "Maude" addressed race, abortion and other social issues rarely seen before on U.S. television, died on Tuesday, at the age of 101, his family said.

Lear, one of the most influential people in television, died at his Los Angeles home of natural causes, "surrounded by his family as we told stories and sang songs until the very end," the family said on Facebook on Wednesday.

Lear, who won six Emmy Awards for his work in television, was known for his campaigning for liberal causes, including voting rights, and worked well into his 90s.

In addition to "All in the Family" and "Maude," Lear dominated American TV screens in the 1970s and '80s with the situation comedies "Sanford and Son," "The Jeffersons," and the soap-opera spoof "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman." At one point in the 1970s, Lear had eight shows on the air with an estimated 120 million viewers, Time magazine said.

By drawing material from social themes of the time, Lear's shows made network executives nervous because they had depth and an air of controversy.

"For him to say that he didn't have an impact on not only television but society is ... a little too humble," said Rob Reiner, who had a co-starring role on "All in the Family" before becoming a film director.

"I loved Norman Lear with all my heart," Reiner said on the X social media platform after news of his death. "He was my second father."

President Joe Biden hailed Lear as a "transformational force in American culture."

"Norman loved America and told our stories with heart, facing the good, the bad, and the truth of who we are as a nation striving to form a more perfect union," he said in a statement.

Lear and production partner Bud Yorkin put "All in the Family" on the air in January 1971, and the show would go on to win four Emmys for best comedy in its nine seasons. It was based on a British show, "Til Death Do Us Part," and gave U.S. television one of its most memorable and controversial characters: Archie Bunker.

Veteran actor Carroll O'Connor portrayed Archie as a crude, loud, blue-collar New Yorker who spouted racist, homophobic and antisemitic comments. He was cast against a scatterbrained wife he called "Dingbat," a liberal daughter and an even more liberal son-in-law he referred to as "Meathead," played by Reiner.

"All in the Family" was the top-rated show on U.S. television for five straight years, according to CBS, and TV Guide ranked it fourth on its list of television's all-time greatest shows.

Born on July 27, 1922 in New Haven, Connecticut, Norman Milton Lear's most lasting creation was partly based on fact. Many of the harsh words that came out of Archie's mouth had first been spoken by Lear's own father, Herman Lear, who went to prison for selling fake bonds, and frequently told his wife to "stifle" herself and called his son "the laziest white kid I ever saw."

"I grew up in a family that lived at the top of its lungs and the ends of its nerves," Lear told Esquire magazine.

Some critics said the Archie Bunker character put a laughing face on bigotry, but Lear said it only pointed to the complexity of humanity.

A year after "All in the Family" started, Lear aired "Maude," a spin-off that starred Bea Arthur as Archie's acerbic sister-in-law and political opposite.

As with Bunker, the character was like none previously seen on American television. Maude was on her fourth husband, protested marijuana laws and had an abortion before the U.S. Supreme Court legalized the procedure nationwide. Her husband battled alcoholism, had two nervous breakdowns and attempted suicide.

Black characters in U.S. television in the '70s were mostly limited to minor roles until Lear made them the focus of some of his shows.

"Good Times" centered on a working-class Black family living in a public housing project in Chicago. Many of the show's episodes deal with the family's efforts to pull their way out of the circumstances through hard work and study.

"The Jeffersons," another "All in the Family" spin-off, featured an upwardly mobile Black couple who moved to Manhattan's upscale Upper East Side, where most of their neighbors were white. The show's lead character George was brash, ambitious and unapologetic.

Lear's other hits included "Sanford and Son," a sitcom about a Black junkyard owner in a Los Angeles neighborhood.

While Lear was celebrated for his inclusion, some critics also said many of his depictions of Black characters tended to perpetuate stereotypes.

Lear produced a string of other hit shows, including "Diff'rent Strokes," "Fernwood 2 Night," and the "All in the Family" spin-off "Archie Bunker's Place." But Lear also had flops such as "All That Glitters," "Sunday Dinner" and another "All in the Family" spin-off, "Gloria."

Lear dropped out of college during World War Two to join the Army and flew 52 combat missions in B-17 bombers. He went to Los Angeles in 1950 with the intention of being a publicist but began writing for TV stars such as Danny Thomas, Jerry Lewis, Dean Martin and Andy Williams.

Lear shifted focus in 1981 and founded the liberal activist group People for the American Way to boost voting rights and fight right-wing extremism. He also established the Norman Lear Center at the University of Southern California's Annenberg School of Communication.

In 2001, he and a partner purchased an original copy of the American Declaration of Independence and sent it on a three-year tour of U.S. schools, libraries and events.

He rebooted his 1970s TV series "One Day at a Time" to focus on a Cuban American family in 2017, and three years later he earned his sixth Emmy for a live special broadcast of "All in the Family" and "Good Times."

In February 2021, Lear received the Carol Burnett Award, a lifetime achievement award, at the Golden Globe Awards ceremony, for his contributions to television.

Lear, who was convinced that laughter had lengthened his own life, used humor to enrich the lives of others, his online obituary said.

Ive never been in a situation in my life, however tragic, where I didnt see comedy, Lear said in the 2016 documentary, "Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You."

Lear is survived by his third wife, Lyn, and his six children. A private service for his immediate family will be held.

(Writing and reporting by Bill Trott; Additional reporting by Susan Heavey and Costas Pitas; Editing by Diane Craft, Jonathan Oatis and David Gregorio)
U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) speaks to reporters after the weekly senate party caucus luncheons at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., U.S., November 7, 2023. REUTERS/Sarah Silbiger/File Photo

By Richard Cowan and Moira Warburton

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Democratic chair of the U.S. Senate committee that sets spending policy on Wednesday said Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson was blocking his chamber's team from negotiating budget details in hopes of holding spending to last year's levels.

Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Patty Murray said in an interview that she believed Johnson was standing in the way of his negotiators agreeing on spending levels for the 12 individual bills needed to fund many of the federal government's operations.

Democratic President Joe Biden and Johnson's Republican predecessor, Kevin McCarthy, in June agreed on a $1.59 trillion overall level of discretionary spending for the fiscal year that began Oct. 1, leaving it to lawmakers to divvy that up across the government's sprawling operations.

"What he (Johnson) has not done is given direction to his Appropriations Committee to start negotiating the bills between the House and the Senate," Murray said.

The federal government is currently operating on a temporary "continuing resolution," or CR, holding funding steady at last year's levels. That money will begin to run out next month, and without further action by Congress, the federal government would enter a partial shutdown.

"What the speaker has thrown out is some kind of solution of a date-change, full-year CR," Murray said, meaning current funding would be extended through the full federal fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2024.

A spokesman for Johnson said: "The speakers preference is a fulsome process producing full-year bills, but we need to be done with FY24 one way or another."

The Republican-controlled House of Representatives so far has passed only seven of the 12 bills in partisan votes, failing to address some of the thorniest issues, such as annual food and agriculture funding and Justice Department funding, as well as money for transportation, scores of social programs and others.

In the Democratic-majority Senate, Murray's committee has passed all 12 bills with strong bipartisan support, while the full chamber has passed just three.

FUNDS RUN OUT NEXT MONTH

The stopgap CR currently in place begins to run out on Jan. 19, including services for veterans, transportation and housing, with all other funding expiring by Feb. 2.

If Johnson were to insist on a full-year CR instead of those 12 bills that make spending changes throughout the government, the Senate could balk, Murray said.

"I am ready to go based on the number we all agreed to; voted into law ... and now he is saying, 'Wait, wait, I'm not going to let my House Appropriations Committee negotiate with you until we have a new, different agreement.' We're at the end of the (calendar) year, or three months into this (fiscal) year and now he's trying to negotiate new numbers. That is nuts," Murray said.

Murray's Republican counterpart, Senator Susan Collins, also said that holding funding steady for the year would harm the nation, including its military readiness.

"A yearlong continuing resolution would simply fail to provide the resources needed to protect our nation," Collins said in a Nov. 29 speech to the Senate.

Two House Republican appropriators, Representatives Tom Cole and Michael Simpson, on Wednesday held out hope that a deal can be reached soon on a new top-line spending number, setting the stage for House-Senate negotiations over Congress' winter break, which is scheduled to begin at the end of next week.

Biden and McCarthy agreed on the $1.59 trillion top-line discretionary spending number as part of a June deal that narrowly averted a historic default on the nation's debt, which would have destabilized financial markets. McCarthy in October was ousted by members of his own party after reaching a stopgap spending deal with Democrats that averted a partial government shutdown.

The U.S. in the fiscal year ended Sept. 30 posted a $1.7 trillion deficit, its largest outside of the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, driving its total debt past $33 trillion. That reflects both the effects of high spending and tax cuts.

Moody's ratings agency last month changed its outlook on the United States' creditworthiness to "negative" from "stable," citing political dysfunction.

(Reporting by Richard Cowan and Moira Warburton; Additional reporting by David Morgan; Editing by Scott Malone and Jonathan Oatis)
FILE PHOTO: Trafigura logo is pictured in the company entrance in Geneva March 11, 2012. REUTERS/Denis Balibouse/File Photo

By Julia Payne

BRUSSELS (Reuters) -Global commodities trader Trafigura said on Wednesday it was setting aside $127 million to cover a possible U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) fine to end a probe into "improper payments" by the company in Brazil roughly a decade ago.

The Geneva-based company is also facing charges in Switzerland for alleged bribery in Angola.

"The company understands that the (DOJ) investigations stem in part from statements made by Mariano Marcondes Ferraz, a former Trafigura employee, as part of a plea agreement following his conviction in Brazil," Trafigura said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) of Switzerland said on Wednesday it filed an indictment in the Federal Criminal Court against Trafigura for failing to prevent alleged unlawful payments via a third party to a former employee of Angola's state oil company Sonangol between 2009-2011.

It said in a statement it has charged Trafigura's former chief operating officer Mike Wainwright.

Trafigura said it would defend itself in court and that Wainwright rejected the charges and would also defend himself.

A former Angolan public official is also charged with having accepted bribes of more than 4.3 million euros and $604,000 from the Trafigura Group, in relation to its activities in the petroleum industry in Angola, the OAG said.

In return for these "undue advantages", the official is alleged to have favoured Trafigura by enabling the development of ship chartering and bunkering activities between the company and Angolan oil firm Sonangol, the AOG said.

The OAG said the Angolan official's alleged activities in relation to Trafigura led to eight ship chartering contracts and one ship bunkering deal between June 2009 and July 2010. Trafigura is alleged to have made profits from these contracts amounting so far to $143.7 million.

The former Sonangol employee and a former consultant to DT Group, a joint-venture with Trafigura, are being charged as well.

The latest developments come as the industrial metals and oil trader fights another court battle in relation to its nickel business.

Trafigura filed a lawsuit against Indian businessman Prateek Gupta in February, alleging that it had been victim of a $600-million fraud masterminded by Gupta and his companies.

Lawyers for Gupta rejected Trafigura's allegations.

(Reporting by Julia Payne in Brussels and Natalie Grover in London;Editing by Mark Potter and Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
FILE PHOTO: Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan delivers a national statement at the World Climate Action Summit during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, December 1, 2023. REUTERS/Thaier Al Sudani/File Photo

ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkey rejects plans to establish a post-war buffer zone in Gaza because it would be disrespectful to Palestinians, President Tayyip Erdogan was quoted as saying on Wednesday.

Reuters reported last week that Israel had conveyed plans for the buffer zone to several Arab states and Turkey.

Speaking to reporters on a flight from Doha, Erdogan said Gaza's governance and future after the war would be decided by Palestinians alone.

"I consider even the debating of this (buffer-zone) plan as disrespectful to my Palestinian siblings. For us, this is not a plan that can be debated, considered, or discussed," Erdogan's office quoted him as saying.

Calling for Israel to hand back territories it occupies and end settlements in those territories, he said: "Israel must remove the terrorists - which it markets to the world as settlers - from those houses and those lands, and think about how it can build a peaceful future with Palestinians."

Ankara has sharply criticised Israel's military campaign in Gaza, supports a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict and hosts some members of the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Unlike most of its NATO allies and some Arab states, it does not view Hamas as a terrorist group.

Erdogan said Israel had become "the West's spoiled child", and blamed Western support for Israel for the situation in the region.

Asked about reports that Israeli officials want to hunt down Hamas members in other countries, Erdogan said carrying out such a operation in Turkey would have "very serious" consequences.

"In the event they carry out such a mistake, they should know that they will pay the price for this very, very heavily," he said.

Erdogan said Turkey and Qatar wanted to rebuild Gaza and that Turkey was ready to act as a guarantor or host a peace conference.

(Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu; Editing by Daren Butler, Jonathan Spicer and Timothy Heritage)
A local resident looks at a crater at the site of a Russian missile strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kherson, Ukraine December 5, 2023. REUTERS/Ivan Antypenko

LONDON (Reuters) -Britain warned that Russia was trying to circumvent sanctions as it announced 46 new measures against individuals and groups from other countries it said were involved in Russia's military supply chains.

The latest entities to be sanctioned included businesses operating in China, Turkey, Serbia, the United Arab Emirates and Uzbekistan, Britain's foreign ministry said.

The Russian embassy in London described the sanctions as "futile" and an "act of poorly staged drama", coming as British Foreign Secretary David Cameron visits the United States to reaffirm London's continued support for Ukraine against Russia's invasion.

The Chinese embassy in London said it condemned the move and would counter anything that undermined its interests.

Britain has staunchly supported Ukraine since Russia invaded in February 2022, and said it was targeting third-country suppliers in order to limit Russia's ability to get around sanctions to obtain restricted goods.

"We will continue to ratchet up pressure on Putin and crack down on third parties providing restricted goods and technology to Russia, wherever they may be," junior foreign minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan said.

Britain sanctioned 31 people and entities it said were linked to the design and manufacture of drones and missile parts and the import of electronic components, four UAE-based entities it said were involved in trading Russian oil, and others linked to the Wagner mercenary group.

The designations also included a Belarusian defence organisation Britain said had manufactured military technology used by Minsk to support Russia's war effort.

China said it was firmly opposed to the sanctions. "We urge the UK government to immediately correct its mistake and lift sanctions on Chinese companies," the embassy said.

"The Chinese government will take firm and effective measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises."

Meanwhile, Britain's National Crime Agency said it had issued a warning to banks and other financial institutions and members of the UK regulated sector about Russia seeking to obtain sanctioned goods through intermediary countries.

"Sanctions imposed on Russia as a result of its invasion of Ukraine have had a significant impact on its ability to purchase products, including military supplies, on international markets," the NCA said.

"However, in an effort to circumvent these controls, Russia is using complex supply chains and alternative supply routes to acquire sanctioned products."

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Britain has sanctioned more than 1,600 individuals and about 250 entities.

(Reporting by Sarah Young, Alistair Smout and Michael Holden in London and Twinnie Siu in Hong Kong; Additional Reporting by Rishabh Jaiswal; Editing by Alexandra Hudson and Christopher Cushing)
FILE PHOTO: AI (Artificial Intelligence) letters are placed on computer motherboard in this illustration taken, June 23, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration//File Photo

LONDON (Reuters) - Britain's data protection watchdog warned companies to consider people's privacy rights whenever they use artificial intelligence (AI), or face not just fines but losing the public's trust in the technology.

The country's Information Commissioner, John Edwards, said at a speech on Wednesday that companies must protect their customer's personal information in all circumstances when they are using AI.

"You cannot expect to utilise AI in your products or services without considering privacy, data protection and how you will safeguard peoples rights," Edwards said.

"Our message to those organisations is clear  non-compliance with data protection will not be profitable," he said, adding that fines would be imposed commensurate with any ill-gotten gains received through non-compliance with the rules.

Risks around rapidly-developing AI have been an increasingly high priority for policymakers across the globe since Microsoft-backed Open AI released ChatGPT to the public last year.

Britain hosted the world's first artificial intelligence safety summit in November, and while there was broad consensus over the need to regulate AI, a global plan for overseeing the technology is still a long way off.

Edwards warned firms using AI to tread carefully in their use of the technology or they would alienate the public.

"If people dont trust AI, then theyre less likely to use it, resulting in reduced benefits and less growth or innovation in society as a whole," he said.

(Reporting by Sarah Young; editing by Michael Holden)
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umerov met with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon on Wednesday, amid increasing warnings from President Joe Biden's administration to Congress that it is running out of time and money to help Ukraine fight its war against Russia.

Biden's administration in October asked Congress for nearly $106 billion to fund ambitious plans for Ukraine, Israel and U.S. border security but Republicans who control the House with a slim majority rejected the package.

"We'll discuss Ukraine's strategic goals for the coming year and a long-term vision for a future force," Austin said at the start of the meeting, sitting alongside General Charles Q. Brown, the top U.S. general.

Austin announced an additional aid package for Kyiv, including air defense munitions.

Umerov thanked Austin for the United States' support.

The talks at the Pentagon came as Biden administration officials and industry leaders met to discuss ways to support Ukraine's military, which has burned through artillery fighting Russian forces faster than its Western allies can produce.

"We must expand Ukraine's capacity to sustain the many different systems and platforms being provided by allies and partners around the world," Austin said earlier.

Biden pleaded with Republicans for a fresh infusion of military aid for Ukraine on Wednesday, warning that a victory for Russia over Ukraine would leave Moscow in position to attack NATO allies.

By mid-November, the Pentagon had used 97% of $62.3 billion in supplemental funding it had received and the State Department had used all of the $4.7 billion in military assistance funding it had been allocated.

Congress has approved more than $110 billion for Ukraine since Russia's February 2022 invasion but it has not approved any funds since Republicans took over the House from Democrats in January.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's chief of staff said on Tuesday that the postponement of U.S. assistance for Kyiv being debated in Congress would create a "big risk" of Ukraine losing the war with Russia.

Ukraine conducted a major counteroffensive push this year, but was unable to break through Russian defensive lines. Russia is now on the offensive in the east.

(Reporting by Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart; editing by Diane Craft)
FILE PHOTO: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks at the United Nations before a meeting about the conflict in Gaza, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, U.S., November 6, 2023. REUTERS/Caitlin Ochs//File Photo

By Michelle Nichols

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) -United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres made a rare move on Wednesday to formally warn the Security Council of a global threat from the Gaza war as Arab states seek to use this alert to push the council to call for a ceasefire within days.

The United Arab Emirates gave the council a brief draft resolution, seen by Reuters, that would act on the letter from Guterres by demanding an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire" in the conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas.

Diplomats said the UAE aims to put the text to a vote on Friday when the council is due to be briefed by Guterres on Gaza. To be adopted, a resolution needs at least nine votes in favor and no vetoes by the five permanent members - the United States, Russia, China, France or Britain.

Deputy U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Robert Wood, said the United States does not support any further action by the Security Council at this time.

"However, we remain focused on the difficult and sensitive diplomacy geared to getting more hostages released, more aid flowing into Gaza, and better protection of civilians," Wood told Reuters.

The United States and ally Israel oppose a ceasefire because they believe it would only benefit Hamas. Washington instead supports pauses to protect civilians and allow for the release of hostages taken by Hamas in a deadly Oct. 7 attack on Israel.

"The UAE draft resolution has the support of the Arab and OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) group. This is a moral and humanitarian imperative and we urge all countries to support the call of the Secretary-General," the UAE mission to the U.N. posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Palestinian U.N. envoy Riyad Mansour said Arab ministers would discuss the draft Security Council resolution with U.S. officials during a visit to Washington this week.

"On top of the agenda is this war has to stop," he told reporters as Arab U.N. ambassadors stood with him. "A ceasefire has to take place and it has to take place immediately."

'NEW MORAL LOW'

The United States abstained last month to allow the Security Council to adopt a resolution calling for pauses in fighting. A seven-day pause - that saw Hamas release some hostages and an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza - expired on Dec. 1.

Guterres told the council in his letter that the war "may aggravate existing threats to international peace and security."

He invoked Article 99 of the founding U.N. Charter that allows him to "bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security."

The article has not been used for decades, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said.

"We are facing a severe risk of collapse of the humanitarian system," Guterres wrote. The implications for Palestinians could be irreversible and for regional security, he said, again calling for a humanitarian ceasefire to be declared.

Israel's U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan accused Guterres of reaching a "new moral low" by sending the letter to the Security Council, adding: "The Secretary-General's call for a ceasefire is actually a call to keep Hamas' reign of terror in Gaza."

U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said the conflict presented threats to regional and global security.

"We made quite clear that one of the things that we are trying to do is prevent this conflict from spreading," he told reporters.

Israel says 1,200 people were killed and 240 people taken hostage during the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas. Israel has focused its retaliation against Hamas in Gaza, bombarding it from the air, imposing a siege and launching a ground assault.

Gaza's Health Ministry says that so far 16,015 people have been killed in the enclave of 2.3 million.

Guterres told the Security Council in his letter that there was no effective protection of civilians and that "nowhere is safe in Gaza."

(Reporting by Michelle Nichols and Katharine Jackson; Additional reporting by Humeyra Pamuk in Washington; Editing by Grant McCool and Miral Fahmy)
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, December 6. Kazakhstan is ready to expand the list of products exported to Iran by 75 commodity items, worth $250 million, said Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu during a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, Trend reports.

The parties have agreed on the need to take specific steps to realize the existing potential in the field of trade.

Murat Nurtleu noted that Iran is one of the very important partners in the region, and the two countries enjoy fraternal relations based on cultural and historical heritage.

"Our bilateral political dialogue continues to demonstrate high dynamics of mutually beneficial development," he said.

In addition, the ministers agreed to make efforts to jointly promote mutually beneficial bilateral relations.

In 2022, bilateral trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Iran amounted to $521.4 million, which is 18.3 percent higher than in 2021.

Kazakhstan's exports to Iran during this period amounted to $310 million, and imports from Iran to Kazakhstan amounted to $212 million.

From January through June of this year, trade turnover between the countries amounted to $215.1 million.
By Jonathan Saul

LONDON (Reuters) - The United Nations' shipping agency on Wednesday adopted a resolution targeting illicit shipping practices from the so-called unregulated "shadow fleet" in an effort to clamp down on unsafe activities at sea.

There are hundreds of ageing oil tankers that form part of a parallel fleet of vessels transporting oil including for Russia, which has been hit by Western sanctions but also the enforcement of Group of Seven regulation that caps the price of Moscow's oil exports at $60 with penalties imposed on those that ship above that price.

Iran, which has also been struggling with separate sanctions in recent years, has also turned to such ships to export its oil, sources have said.

The resolution, which was adopted at the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) governing assembly session in London, called upon flag states - which register ships - to "adhere to measures which lawfully prohibit or regulate" the transfer of cargoes at sea, known as STS operations.

It also called for ensuring that ships update their operation plans for STS transfers especially if engaged in a mid-ocean transfer with another vessel.

The resolution also recommended that port states, when they become aware of any ships intentionally taking measures to avoid detection, such as switching off their tracking responders or concealing their actual identity, "should subject such ships to enhanced inspections".

Iran's IMO delegation, which sought amendments to the resolution, voiced its concern last week and said the proposals showed a "clear deviation" from the IMO's remit.

"It (the resolution) includes controversial concepts and terms that lack precise and absolute definitions acceptable to all member states," Iran's delegation said.

In October, Russia said the IMO was departing from its impartial role due to "external pressure" which it said was impacting the fair treatment of all member countries.

Russia on Friday failed to win enough votes for re-election to the IMO's governing council after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy had urged countries not to allow Moscow to be part of the UN body's executive arm.

(Reporting by Jonathan Saul; editing by David Evans)
FILE PHOTO: Zhao Changpeng, founder and chief executive officer of Binance speaks during an event in Athens, Greece, November 25, 2022. REUTERS/Costas Baltas/File Photo

NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. District Judge Richard Jones in Seattle on Wednesday signed off on plea deals agreed by U.S. prosecutors, Binance Holdings and its former chief Changpeng Zhao, according to court documents.

In November, Binance agreed to pay over $4.3 billion and pleaded guilty to breaking U.S. anti-money laundering and sanctions laws. Zhao also pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing in February.

(Reporting by Chris Prentice)
FILE PHOTO: People carrying shopping bags walk inside the King of Prussia shopping mall, as shoppers show up early for the Black Friday sales, in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, U.S. November 26, 2021. REUTERS/Rachel Wisniewski/File Photo

By Katherine Masters

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The main lobbying group for U.S. retailers retracted its claim that "organized retail crime" accounted for nearly half of all inventory losses in 2021 after finding that incorrect data was used for its analysis.

A spokesperson for the National Retail Federation said Tuesday that the organization had removed the sentence from its report on organized retail crime published in April. It produced the report in collaboration with private security firm K2 Integrity.

The research -- which was edited in late November, according to NRFs website -- previously stated that nearly half of the $94.5 billion in inventory losses reported by retailers in a 2021 survey was attributable to organized retail crime.

Retail executives and law enforcement officials use the term organized retail crime to describe coordinated groups of thieves who shoplift or steal from retailers' warehouses and trucks, reselling stolen merchandise on the black market.

The NRF's claim that organized retail crime accounted for "nearly half" of inventory losses was repeated in multiple media reports on the issue. The NRF has cited growing rates of crime in calls for Congress to pass new laws, including proposed legislation that would broaden the scope of offenses considered organized crime and increase potential penalties.

According to NRF spokesperson Danielle Inman, the claim that organized crime accounted for nearly half of all inventory losses was based on two-year-old testimony from Ben Dugan, former president of the advocacy group Coalition of Law Enforcement and Retail. In 2021, he told a U.S. Senate committee that organized retail crime accounted for $45 billion in annual losses for retailers, according to estimates by the coalition.

The inclusion of the claim in NRFs report was taken directly from Bens testimony and was an inference made by the K2 analyst linking the results of the NRF survey from 2021 and Ben Dugans statement made that same year, Inman said.

K2 Integrity did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Dugan could not immediately be reached for comment on how the coalition calculated the $45 billion figure.

The NRF also removed references to the coalitions research in its April report.

The NRF's retraction highlights ongoing difficulties in quantifying the role crime plays in shrink -- another industry term for inventory losses due to any cause, from shipping mistakes to clerical errors.

Some law enforcement sources, including a November report from the Council on Criminal Justice, suggest that shoplifting outside major cities like New York has decreased since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many retailers, however, say that shoplifting is widely underreported and crime statistics do not accurately reflect the scope of the problem.

Target, DICKs Sporting Goods and Walgreens are among major retailers that have cited rising crime as a significant drag on profitability, though some have since walked back on those concerns. In a January earnings call, Walgreens CEO told investors that maybe we cried too much when reporting rising shoplifting the previous year.

Industry data, on the other hand, is often noisy or conflates broader statistics on shrink with those on organized retail crime, according to Trevor Wagener, chief economist for the Computer & Communications Industry Association, which has analyzed retail crime data on behalf of members such as Amazon.com and Apple.

He pointed to the Retail Industry Leaders Associations recent estimate that organized crime cost U.S. retailers nearly $70 billion a year, which relied on data from five Fortune 500 companies RILA described as some of the largest retailers in the country.

Thats a very significant extrapolation, especially in an industry where its well known that shrink issues vary quite a bit depending on the category of the retailer, Wagener said.

A spokesperson for RILA said the group "stand[s] by the data from our 2021 report."

NRF data from its annual Retail Security Survey indicates that the percentage of shrink attributed to external theft, including organized retail crime, has largely remained around 36% since 2015.

(Reporting by Katherine Masters; Editing by Leslie Adler)
FILE PHOTO: A passenger checks their flight status at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had ordered airlines to pause all domestic departures due to a system outage in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.,

By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration said on Wednesday it wants to require aviation-repair stations in foreign countries to conduct drug and alcohol testing for employees performing safety-sensitive maintenance functions for U.S. airlines.

The FAA said few countries require testing of aviation or maintenance personnel.

The proposed rule would impact approximately 977 repair stations in 65 countries and ensure that "employees are held to the same high level of safety standards regardless of where they are physically located."

The FAA has been considering the issue for decades and Congress previously directed the agency to set the requirements.

Aviation unions for years have called for testing for maintenance functions that are outsourced to repair stations outside the United States.

Transport Workers Union President John Samuelsen

said the proposal will close a "big safety gap ... Airline mechanics in China and other lower-wage, lower-standard countries who work on U.S. commercial aircraft will have to undergo drug and alcohol testing - just like mechanics here."

The group said that since 2017, the U.S. airline industry has eliminated more than 5,000 U.S. mechanic jobs, while creating 35,000 mechanic jobs in foreign countries.

The FAA said some argue U.S.-based maintenance facilities "are operating at an economic disadvantage as maintenance facilities abroad are not required to subject employees to drug and alcohol testing and, therefore, are essentially circumventing the associated costs to maintain a testing program."

Airlines for America, which represents the largest U.S. airlines, declined immediate comment.

Airlines have said previously that privacy and employment laws in foreign countries could conflict with U.S. drug and alcohol testing requirements. The FAA said airlines could seek a waiver of the requirements for specific foreign repair stations if they cannot comply for domestic reasons.

The FAA said the rule would boost safety by deterring substance abuse by safety-sensitive aviation employees and is estimated to cost carriers $102.3 million over five years.

It will be open for public comment until early February.

(Reporting by David Shepardson in Washington; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama, Bernadette Baum and Matthew Lewis)
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro attends an event at the National Electoral Council (CNE) after voters in a referendum rejected the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) jurisdiction over the country's territorial dispute with Guyana and backed the cr

CARACAS/GEORGETOWN (Reuters) -Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Tuesday he would authorize oil exploration in an area subject to a dispute with Guyana, which said it would report his comments to the United Nations and the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Maduro's pledge to permit development around the Esequibo river came after his government held a referendum over the weekend where voters rejected the ICJ's jurisdiction over the disagreement and backed creating a new state in the territory.

Though Maduro has repeatedly said the referendum is binding, the ICJ - whose overall ruling on the case could be years away - last week barred Venezuela from taking any action which changes the status quo in the oil-rich region.

State oil company PDVSA and state iron and steel maker CVG will create divisions for the disputed region, Maduro said.

The state companies will "immediately proceed to create the division PDVSA Esequibo and CVG Esequibo and immediately we'll proceed to give operating licenses for the exploration and exploitation of oil, gas and mines in our Guayana Esequiba," he said on state television.

Maduro also said he has proposed a law to the government-controlled legislature to create the new state, and companies already operating in waters in the area would have three months to leave.

Guyanese President Irfaan Ali said in comments later on Tuesday that Maduro was showing "blatant disregard" for the ICJ ruling.

"Guyana will be reporting this matter early in the morning. We will write the U.N. Security Council and the court," Ali said in a national broadcast. "The Guyana Defense Force is on high alert ... Venezuela has clearly declared itself an outlaw nation."

He has already spoken to U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Ali said.

Venezuela reactivated its claim over the 160,000 square km (61,776 square mile) territory in recent years, after the discovery of offshore oil and gas. The maritime border between the two countries is also in dispute.

A consortium led by Exxon Mobil began producing oil off Guyana's coast in late 2019 and exports started in 2020.

Guyana, which is currently producing some 400,000 barrels per day of oil and gas, this year received bids for new shallow water and deep water blocks from local and foreign companies in its first international bidding round. The exploration licenses for those areas have not been signed.

Ali said investors in Guyana have nothing to worry about.

"Our message is very clear, your investments are safe," he said. "Our international partners and international community are ready and they have assured us of their support."

"Border issues are for governments and appropriate international organizations to address," an Exxon spokesperson said in response to questions.

Analysts have said the vote was an attempt by Maduro to gauge his government's support ahead of a 2024 presidential election.

(Reporting by Mayela Armas and Deisy Buitrago in Caracas and Kiana Wilburg in Georgetown, additional reporting by Sabrina Valle in Houston, Writing by Julia Symmes Cobb; Editing by Sonali Paul)
The corporate logo of the state oil company PDVSA is seen at a gas station in Caracas, Venezuela November 22, 2017. REUTERS/Marco Bello/File Photo

By Marianna Parraga

HOUSTON (Reuters) -Venezuelan state oil company PDVSA has assigned loading windows this month to two vessels bound for India under crude spot deals with Italy's ENI and U.S.-based Chevron (NYSE: CVX), an internal company document showed.

Indian refiners including Reliance Industries, Indian Oil Corp and HPCL-Mittal Energy (HMEL) have been looking for Venezuelan crude cargoes to buy since Washington eased oil sanctions on the South American country in October.

Some refiners have agreed to purchase deals with trading houses that had early access to Venezuelan oil between October and November, while others are set to buy from PDVSA's joint venture partners.

The scheduled deliveries to India are the first authorized by PDVSA through oil majors' Eni and Chevron in three years.

The two vessels to load for India are the Liberia-flagged supertanker C. Earnest, which arrived in Venezuelan waters on Wednesday chartered by Reliance, and the Malta-flagged supertanker Desimi, which has been waiting to load since last week, according to the document and ship tracking data.

Each can transport up to 2 million barrels of Venezuela's prized heavy crude oil.

A separate crude cargo on the very large crude carrier Eucaly, sold by PDVSA to intermediary Hangzhou Energy, finished loading last week and could also set sail to India if a deal through a trading firm and an Indian refiner is confirmed. The cargo had initially been allocated for Malaysia, another document showed.

Venezuelan oil sales to India got suspended in 2020 when the U.S. imposed secondary sanctions on the nation. Reliance was PDVSA's second largest individual customer prior to sanctions.

Taking cargoes from Venezuela largely depends on the buyers' ability to charter tankers that agree to load at Venezuelan ports, where delays and quality issues are common, and their willingness to pay upfront, as demanded by PDVSA.

Venezuela's oil exports to China, its primary destination for exports, averaged some 338,000 barrels per day (bpd) last month, while shipments to the United States averaged 144,000 bpd, according to the documents and data.

(Reporting by Marianna Parraga; editing by Gary McWilliams)
FILE PHOTO: JPMorgan Chase & Co President and CEO Jamie Dimon attends a U.S. House Financial Services Committee hearing titled ?Holding Megabanks Accountable: Oversight of America?s Largest Consumer Facing Banks? on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., Septe

By Pete Schroeder, Michelle Price and Lananh Nguyen

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The top bosses of JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs and other major banks warned on Wednesday that capital hikes and other new rules will hurt lending and the economy during a Senate hearing that was otherwise sedate compared with recent years.

The industry has been waging a fierce campaign to kill the "Basel endgame" proposal, which overhauls how banks must calculate their loss-absorbing capital, and as regulators roll out fair lending and fee cap regulations, among other rules.

The CEOs hoped to use the hearing as an opportunity to convince moderate Democratic senators that the Basel rule, which is being led by the Federal Reserve, could stifle lending, hurting small businesses and consumers.

It quickly became a battle of narratives, with many Democrats casting skepticism on the industry's complaints and accusing them of over-emphasizing the risks, while Republicans and the CEOs stressed the potential adverse impact on a range of products and services, from green lending, commodities hedging, and pension plan services, to Treasury market liquidity.

"If enacted as drafted, this proposal will fundamentally alter the U.S. economy in ways that the Federal Reserve has not studied or contemplated," Jamie Dimon, CEO of the country's largest lender JPMorgan, said in his prepared testimony.

"A lot of loans become unprofitable," Dimon said later, citing solar, wind, and community lending.

Still, the hearing, which has become an annual Washington event, was far less contentious than in previous years, with moments of levity and humor. Even Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren, who in the past has skewered Wall Street bosses on issues including payment fraud and overdraft fees, took a soft line.

The other CEOs appearing were: Bank of America's Brian Moynihan, Wells Fargo's Charles Scharf, Goldman Sachs' David Solomon, Morgan Stanley's James Gorman, State Street's Ronald O'Hanley, and BNY Mellon's Robin Vince.

Gorman emphatically criticized Basel as "wholly unnecessary" and later as making "no sense" for an industry already awash in cash and subject to a slew of strict regulations.

Senator Sherrod Brown, the Ohio Democrat who chairs the Committee, criticized the banks for aggressively lobbying against the rules, including with multiple public advertising campaigns.

Banks have overstated the adverse potential impact of the rules in a bid to preserve their profit margins, he added. When pressed by Brown as to whether all the banks could meet the extra capital required by Basel, all eight indicated they could.

"What your banks want is to maximize quarterly profits, the cost of everything and everyone else be damned," Brown told the CEOs.

Regulators say capital hikes are necessary to protect the banking system from unforeseen shocks, especially following the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and two other lenders earlier this year.

"The big bank CEOs complained about capital requirements, just like they did with Dodd-Frank protections," Brown wrote in a statement after the hearing. "Strong rules, like capital requirements, protect workers, taxpayers, and our economy by preventing big banks from taking on too much risk without the capital necessary to prevent financial crises and bailouts."

The Wall Street bosses were supported by the committee's Republicans who generally oppose tight regulations. Senator Tim Scott, the panel's top Republican, echoed bank concerns, saying the proposed rules could have a "devastating impact" on small businesses.

Senator Mike Rounds, a Republican from South Dakota, asked the CEOs if the regulations could hurt homebuyers, farmers, and small business owners, prompting all eight to raise their hands.

NO FIREWORKS

Other issues covered included cannabis banking, fair lending, payments, mortgages, and artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency regulations.

Big bank CEOs have been appearing before Congress for several years after the 2007-2009 financial crisis and subsequent scandals thrust the industry into Washington's crosshairs.

While they rarely result in legislation, hearings have led banks to make changes. In 2021, Dimon was drawn into a fiery exchange with Warren about overdraft fees, while last year she grilled him over fraud on bank payment network Zelle. Big banks subsequently reduced overdraft fees and expanded Zelle fraud protections.

This year, however, there were no fireworks. Instead of attacking the CEOs, Warren enlisted them in her bid to crackdown on the cryptocurrency industry. She is pushing a bill that would extend existing bank anti-money laundering rules to the crypto industry. When asked if the CEOs supported the aim of her bill, they all enthusiastically said they did.

"I'm not usually holding hands with the CEOs of multi-billion dollar banks, but this is a matter of national security. Terrorists, drug traffickers and rogue nations should be barred from using crypto for their dangerous activities," she said.

(Writing by Michelle Price; additional reporting by Chibuike Oguh; Editing by David Gregorio, Nick Zieminski and Chris Reese)
FILE PHOTO: World Bank President Ajay Banga speaks on the second day of the annual meeting of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, in Marrakech, Morocco, October 10, 2023. REUTERS/Susana Vera

By David Lawder

(Reuters) - World Bank President Ajay Banga on Wednesday called on member countries to make the next replenishment of the lender's fund for the world's poorest countries the largest ever, warning that the International Development Association (IDA) was being pushed to its limits by increasing demands.

Opening a mid-term review of the IDA 20th replenishment totaling $93 billion, Banga said World Bank shareholders, donor countries and philanthropies needed to dig deeper to help IDA deliver better development outcomes to low-income countries.

"The truth is we are pushing the limits of this important concessional resource and no amount of creative financial engineering will compensate for the fact that we need more

funding," Banga told a conference in Zanzibar, Tanzania. "This must drive each of us to make the next replenishment of IDA the largest of all time."

The current, 20th IDA funding round is due to be completed on June 30, 2025. The Zanzibar conference is aimed at adding to that funding, but Banga used to launch his campaign for the subsequent round of funding to well exceed the $93 billion.

His call for increased concessional resources, which have been depleted by a slow rebound from COVID-19 and negative spillovers from Russia's war in Ukraine, came days after Banga emphasized the World Bank's ambitious plans to expand climate finance at the COP28 conference in Dubai.

Banga at COP28 announced new targets to boost the climate-related portion of its total annual financing to 45% from 35% currently, with an immediate increase of about $9 billion. Some developing countries have voiced concerns that the lender's new expanded mission to tackle climate change and other global crises will divert funding and attention away from the bank's core development mission.

Banga has promised to pursue both and argues that positive development and climate outcomes depend on each other.

He also said the World Bank needs to revamp how it evaluates its performance to focus on improved outcomes, not numbers of projects or dollars disbursed. That means moving towards platforms that can be replicated, such as an IDA-financed mini-grid that delivers electricity to rural communities in Nigeria.

"But this is just one example, I want to see 100,000 - 200,000 - half a million more," he said, adding that IDA was investing $5 billion to deliver affordable renewal electricity to 100 million Africans before 2030.

(Reporting by David Lawder; Editing by Kim Coghill)
FILE PHOTO: U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Mexico's Finance Minister Rogelio Ramirez de la O hold a bilateral meeting during the APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) Summit in San Francisco, California, U.S. November 12, 2023. REUTERS/Carlos

By David Lawder

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - The Biden administration announced new sanctions and indictments against Mexican nationals on Wednesday as it seeks to deepen cooperation with the Mexican government to curb flows of the opioid fentanyl to the United States.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, on her first trip to Mexico since taking office in 2021, announced the new sanctions against 15 individuals and two Mexican companies linked to the Beltran Leyva drug cartel.

They are aimed at disrupting the Beltran Leyva Organization, which the Treasury describes as "one of the most powerful drug trafficking organizations in the world," and a major supplier of cocaine and now fentanyl, to the U.S.

The U.S. Justice Department on Wednesday said that sixty Mexican and foreign nationals had been charged with international drug trafficking, including 12 of the individuals that were sanctioned and are linked to the Beltran Leyva cartel.

The Treasury has previously sanctioned members of the cartel, but the latest designations were issued under a 2021 executive order that broadens the scope of drug-related activities to include transactions that have "materially contributed to, or pose a significant risk of materially contributing to" illicit drugs proliferation.

"We have authorities now that I think make it easier for us to go after middlemen who are not actually trading fentanyl itself but goods like pill presses and pharmaceuticals that arent export controlled," Yellen told reporters.

"But when used as part of a cartel to facilitate the drug trade, we can now come down and put sanctions on those entities," she added.

During her visit to Mexico, Yellen is aiming to sharpen cooperation with the government and businesses to find and cut off the flow of financing to drug cartels and their front companies.

"Of course the United States cannot do this alone," she said in remarks on the Treasury's anti-fentanyl efforts.

Yellen toured a Mexican government crime lab that is pioneering the training of dogs to detect fentanyl precursor chemicals. She will meet with Mexico's finance minister and central bank chief to discuss ways to improve information sharing.

On Thursday, she is scheduled to meet with Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

She said that opioid overdoses, including fentanyl, are killing more than 1,500 people in America per week, making fentanyl the biggest killer of people aged 18-49 in the United States.

The trip follows Treasury's announcement on Monday of a counter-fentanyl "strike force" that will bring together the department's resources, including the Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence and the Internal Revenue Service's Criminal Investigation unit, to disrupt illicit drug trafficking, including through cryptocurrencies.

U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping last month agreed to deepen cooperation to stem the flow of fentanyl precursor chemicals from China, which are often mixed by Mexican drug gangs before distribution in the U.S.

Yellen said the drive for Mexico's cooperation in enforcing sanctions is an important part of making good on the Biden-Xi anti-fentanyl pledge.

The Treasury has been imposing sanctions - which aim to cut illicit actors off the U.S. dollar-based financial system - for years, disrupting individual cartels, but the actions have failed to slow the overall flow of illicit drugs to the United States.

INVESTMENT CHALLENGES

Jeffrey Schott, a senior fellow with the Peterson Institute for International Economics in Washington, said the U.S.-Mexico drugs trade and its associated security concerns have also become an impediment to business investment in Mexico.

Inhibiting the production and distribution of fentanyl, cocaine, heroin and other drugs is important, "but part of it needs to be to dampen the U.S. demand for the drugs. And we don't seem to be doing a good job of that."

Yellen told business executives that Mexico was well positioned to participate in the "friend-shoring" diversifications of U.S. supply chains, but it would require the government to "create a strong investment and operating environment for the private sector."

Companies looking to invest in Mexico "need to be able to count on adequate infrastructure and other public services," along with trained workforces and rule of law, she said.

(Reporting by David Lawder; Additional reporting by Brendan O'Boyle; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama, Andrea Ricci and Shri Navaratnam)
Janus Investment Fund

Janus Henderson Absolute Return Income Opportunities Fund

Supplement dated December 6, 2023

to Currently Effective Prospectuses

Effective March 1, 2024, Addison Maier will join Dylan Bourke and Daniel Siluk as a Co-Portfolio Manager of Janus Henderson Absolute Return Income Opportunities Fund (the Fund).

Accordingly, effective March 1, 2024, the prospectuses for the Fund are amended as follows:

1. Under Management in the Fund Summary section of the Funds prospectuses, the following paragraph replaces the corresponding paragraph in its entirety:

Portfolio Management: Dylan Bourke, CFA, is Executive Vice President and Co-Portfolio Manager of the Fund, which he has co-managed since June 2021. Addison Maier is Co-Portfolio Manager of the Fund, which he has co-managed since March 2024. Daniel Siluk is Executive Vice President and Co-Portfolio Manager of the Fund, which he has co-managed since June 2021.

2. Under Portfolio Management  Janus Henderson Absolute Return Income Opportunities Fund in the Management of the Funds section of the Funds prospectuses, the following paragraph replaces the first paragraph in its entirety:

Co-Portfolio Managers Dylan Bourke, Addison Maier, and Daniel Siluk jointly share responsibility for the day-to-day management of the Fund, with no limitation on the authority of one co-portfolio manager in relation to the others.

3. Under Portfolio Management  Janus Henderson Absolute Return Income Opportunities Fund in the Management of the Funds section of the Funds prospectuses, the following paragraph is added after the second paragraph:

Addison Maier is Co-Portfolio Manager of Janus Henderson Absolute Return Income Opportunities Fund, which he has co-managed since March 2024. Mr. Maier is also Portfolio Manager of other Janus Henderson accounts. He joined the Adviser as a credit analyst in 2011, and has served as an associate portfolio manager since 2021. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, with an emphasis in Finance, from the University of Colorado, and a Master of Business Administration degree with honors from the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School of Business.

Effective March 1, 2024, all references to Jason England serving in the role of Executive Vice President and Co-Portfolio Manager of the Fund are deleted from the Funds prospectuses.

Please retain this Supplement with your records.

Janus Investment Fund

Janus Henderson Absolute Return Income Opportunities Fund

Supplement dated December 6, 2023

to Currently Effective Statement of Additional Information

Effective March 1, 2024, Addison Maier will join Dylan Bourke and Daniel Siluk as a Co-Portfolio Manager of Janus Henderson Absolute Return Income Opportunities Fund (the Fund).

Accordingly, effective March 1, 2024, the statement of additional information (the SAI) for the Fund is amended as follows:

1. Under Janus Henderson Portfolio Management in the Trustees and Officers section of the Funds SAI, the following information is added to the table under the heading Other Accounts Managed in alphabetical order:



Other Registered

Investment Companies



Other Pooled

Investment Vehicles

Other Accounts Addison Maier(4)** Number of Other Accounts Managed Assets in Other Accounts Managed

None

None



None

None



None

None



(4) Effective March 1, 2024, Addison Maier was appointed Co-Portfolio Manager of Janus Henderson Absolute Return Income Opportunities Fund. This information does not reflect other accounts that Mr. Maier was appointed to manage concurrent with his appointment as Co-Portfolio Manager of the Fund.

**As of October 31, 2023.

2. Under Ownership of Securities in the Trustees and Officers section of the Funds SAI, the following information is added in alphabetical order:

Investment Personnel Dollar Range of Equity Securities in the Fund(s) Managed Aggregate Dollar Range of

Equity Securities in the Fund

Complex Addison Maier(1)** Janus Henderson Absolute Return

Income Opportunities Fund $100,001-$500,000 $100,001-$500,000

(1) Effective March 1, 2024, Addison Maier was appointed Co-Portfolio Manager of Janus Henderson Absolute Return Income Opportunities Fund.

**As of October 31, 2023.

Effective March 1, 2024, all references to Jason England serving in the role of Executive Vice President and Co-Portfolio Manager of the Fund are deleted from the Funds SAI.

Please retain this Supplement with your records.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, December 6. The Vice Minister of National Economy of Kazakhstan held a meeting with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) delegation led by the regional manager for the Middle East, Central Asia, Turkiye, Afghanistan and Pakistan, Michael Opagi, Trend reports.

The parties discussed priority areas for public-private partnership projects and prospects for further collaboration in implementing the renewable energy program.

As the vice minister noted, Kazakhstan's government has adopted a comprehensive plan for the development of public-private partnership in the social sphere for 2024-2028.

In turn, IFC delegation expressed intention to expand participation and intensify the implementation of the public-private partnership development program in Kazakhstan to help attract investment in various sectors.

Meanwhile, 1,086 public-private partnership agreements were concluded in Kazakhstan as of November 1, 2023.
false 0001420720 0001420720 2023-12-05 2023-12-05 iso4217:USD xbrli:shares iso4217:USD xbrli:shares

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):

iBio, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

Delaware

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation)

001-35023 26-2797813 (Commission File Number) (IRS Employer Identification No.)

8800 HSC Parkway

Bryan , Texas 77807

(Address of principal executive offices and zip code)

( 979 ) 446-0027

(Registrants telephone number including area code)

N/A

(Former Name and Former Address)

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of 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(b) 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 Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share IBIO NYSE American

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (240.12b-2 of this chapter).

Emerging growth company 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by checkmark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 

Item 1.01. Entry Into a Material Definitive Agreement.

Offering and Securities Purchase Agreement

On December 5, 2023, iBio, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the Company), entered into a securities purchase agreement with certain purchaser (the Purchasers) identified on the signature pages thereto (the Purchase Agreement), pursuant to which the Company agreed to issue and sell, in a public offering (the Offering), (i) 600,000 shares (the Shares) of the Companys common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the Common Stock), (ii) 1,650,000 pre-funded warrants (the Pre-Funded Warrants) exercisable for an aggregate of 1,650,000 shares of Common Stock, (iii) 2,250,000 Series C common warrants (the Series C Common Warrants) exercisable for an aggregate of 2,250,000 shares of Common Stock, and (iv) 2,250,000 Series D common warrants (the Series D Common Warrants, and together with the Series C Common Warrants, the Common Warrants) exercisable for an aggregate of 2,250,000 shares of Common Stock. The Common Warrants together with the Pre-Funded Warrants are referred to in this Current Report on Form 8-K as the Warrants.

Each share of Common Stock and Pre-Funded Warrant, as applicable, is being sold together with one Series C Common Warrant to purchase one share of Common Stock and one Series D Common Warrant to purchase one share of Common Stock. The combined purchase price of each share of Common Stock and the accompanying Common Warrants is $2.00 and the combined purchase price of each Pre-Funded Warrant and the accompanying Common Warrants is $1.9999, which is equal to the combined purchase price per share of Common Stock and accompanying Common Warrants, minus the exercise price of each Pre-Funded Warrant of $0.0001. The Series C Common Warrants and the Series D Common Warrants have an exercise price of $2.00 per share and are immediately exercisable. The Series C Common Warrants will expire two (2) years from the date of issuance and the Series D Common Warrants will expire five (5) years from the date of issuance. There is not expected to be any trading market for the Pre-Funded Warrants or the Common Warrants issued in the Offering.

All Shares and Warrants will be offered and sold in the Offering (including the shares of Common Stock issuable from time to time upon exercise of the Pre-Funded Warrants, the Series C Common Warrants and the Series D Common Warrants) pursuant to the Companys Registration Statement on Form S-1, as amended (Registration No. 333-275204), which was declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) on December 4, 2023, and related final prospectus dated December 5, 2023.

The closing of the Offering is expected to occur on or about December 7, 2023, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

The net proceeds from the Offering, after deducting placement agent fees and other estimated offering expenses payable by the Company and excluding the net proceeds, if any, from the exercise of the Common Warrants, are approximately $3.6 million. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering primarily for working capital and general corporate purposes, including for research and development and other trial preparation expenses and, retention and severance payments to certain of the Companys employees or former employees.

The Purchase Agreement contains customary representations, warranties, and covenants of the Company and also provides for customary indemnification by each of the Company and the Purchasers against certain liabilities and customary contribution provisions in respect of those liabilities. Pursuant to the terms of the Purchase Agreement, the Company has agreed to certain restrictions on the issuance and sale of its Common Stock or Common Stock Equivalents (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) during the 90-day period following the closing of the Offering.

The description of terms and conditions of the Purchase Agreement does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by the full text of the form of Purchase Agreement, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.1.

Placement Agency Agreement and Tail Financing Payments

On December 5, 2023, the Company entered into a placement agency agreement (the Placement Agency Agreement) with A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners (A.G.P.), as lead placement agent, and Brookline Capital Markets, a division of Arcadia Securities, LLC (Brookline), as co-placement agent (A.G.P. and Brookline are referred to herein, collectively, as the Placement Agents), pursuant to which the Placement Agents agreed to serve as the placement agents for the Company on a reasonable efforts basis for the issuance and sale of the Shares and Warrants. The Company has agreed to pay the Placement Agents an aggregate cash fee equal to 5.5% of the gross proceeds received by the Company from the sale of the securities in the Offering. Pursuant to the Placement Agency Agreement, the Company also agreed to reimburse the Placement Agents for their accountable offering-related legal expenses in an amount up to $75,000 and pay a non-accountable expense allowance of up to $15,000. The Placement Agency Agreement has indemnity and other customary provisions for transactions of this nature.

The Company also agreed to pay H.C. Wainwright & Co. a tail fee payable in cash equal to 7.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds raised in the Offering ($303,100) and payable in warrants equal to 6.0% (warrants to purchase 129,900 shares of Common Stock) of the number of shares of the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock and Pre-Funded Warrants being offered hereby at an exercise price equal to 125% of the combined public offering price per share of Common Stock and Warrants, if any Purchaser, who was contacted or introduced to H.C. Wainwright & Co. during the term of its engagement, provides the Company with capital in the Offering.

The Placement Agency Agreement contains customary representations, warranties, and covenants of the Company and also provides for customary indemnification by each of the Company and the Placement Agents against certain liabilities and customary contribution provisions in respect of those liabilities.

The description of terms and conditions of the Placement Agency Agreement does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by the full text of the Placement Agency Agreement, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit 1.1.

Terms of the Pre-Funded Warrants, Series C Common Warrants and Series D Common Warrants

The Pre-Funded Warrants were offered in lieu of shares of Common Stock to certain Purchasers because the purchase of shares of Common Stock in the Offering would otherwise result in said Purchasers, together with their affiliates and certain related parties, beneficially owning more than 4.99% (or, at the election of the Purchaser, 9.99%) of the Companys outstanding Common Stock immediately following the consummation of the Offering. Each Pre-Funded Warrant is exercisable for one share of Common Stock at an exercise price of $0.0001 per share. The Pre-Funded Warrants are immediately exercisable and may be exercised at any time until all of the Pre-Funded Warrants are exercised in full.

Each Series C Common Warrant and Series D Common Warrant offered hereby will be a Warrant to purchase one share of Common Stock and will have an initial exercise price equal to $2.00 per share. The Series C Common Warrants will be immediately exercisable and will expire two (2) years from the date of issuance. The Series D Common Warrants will be immediately exercisable and will expire five (5) years from the date of issuance. The exercise price and number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of the Series C Common Warrants and Series D Common Warrants is subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of share dividends, stock splits, reorganizations or similar events affecting the Common Stock and the exercise price.

A holder (together with its affiliates) of the Common Warrants or Pre-Funded Warrants may not exercise any portion of the Common Warrants or Pre-Funded Warrants, as applicable, to the extent that the holder would own more than 4.99% (or, at the holders option upon issuance, 9.99%) of the Companys outstanding Common Stock immediately after exercise, as such percentage ownership is determined in accordance with the terms of the Common Warrants or Pre-Funded Warrants, as applicable. In lieu of making the cash payment otherwise contemplated to be made to the Company upon exercise of a Common Stock Warrant in payment of the aggregate exercise price, the holder may elect instead to receive upon such exercise (either in whole or in part) the net number of shares of Common Stock determined according to a formula set forth in the Common Warrants, provided that such cashless exercise shall only be permitted if a registration statement is not effective at the time of such exercise or if the prospectus to which such registration statement is a part is not available for the issuance of shares of Common Stock to the holder of the Common Warrants. In addition, in certain circumstances, upon a fundamental transaction (as defined in the Common Warrants), the holder will have the right to require the Company to repurchase the Common Warrants at the Black Scholes Value (as defined in the Common Warrants); provided, however, that, if the fundamental transaction is not within the Companys control, including not approved by the Companys board of directors, then the holder shall only be entitled to receive the same type or form of consideration (and in the same proportion), at the Black Scholes Value of the unexercised portion of the Common Warrants, that is being offered and paid to the holders of Common Stock of the Company in connection with the fundamental transaction.

In lieu of making the cash payment otherwise contemplated to be made to the Company upon exercise of a Pre-Funded Warrant in payment of the aggregate exercise price, the holder may elect instead to receive upon such exercise (either in whole or in part) the net number of shares of Common Stock determined according to a formula set forth in the Pre-Funded Warrants.

The description of terms and conditions of the Pre-Funded Warrants, Series C Common Warrants and Series D Common Warrants do not purport to be complete and are qualified in their entirety by the full text of the form of such Pre-Funded Warrants, Series C Common Warrants and Series D Common Warrants, copies of which are attached to this Current Report on Form 8-K as Exhibits 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3, respectively.

Item 8.01. Other Events.

On December 5, 2023, the Company issued a press release announcing that it had priced a public offering of its securities. A copy of the press release is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.2 and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 9.01. Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(d) Exhibits.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

Date: December 6, 2023 IBIO, INC. By: /s/ Marc A. Banjak Name: Marc A. Banjak Title: General Counsel and Corporate Secretary

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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) (December 1, 2023)

Name of Registrant , State of Incorporation , Address Of Principal Executive Offices , Telephone Number , Commission File No. , IRS Employer Identification No.





PNM Resources, Inc.

(A New Mexico Corporation)

414 Silver Ave. SW

Albuquerque , New Mexico 87102-3289

Telephone Number - ( 505 ) 241-2700

Commission File No. - 001-32462

IRS Employer Identification No. - 85-0468296





____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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 40.14d-2(b))  Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4 (c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 40.13e-4(c))





Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Registrant Title of each class Trading Symbol(s) Name of exchange on which registered PNM Resources, Inc. Common Stock, no par value PNM 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 





If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 













Item 5.02 Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers.





Changes in Principal Accounting Officer





On December 5, 2023, Henry E. Monroy, Vice President and Corporate Controller of PNM Resources, Inc. (the Company) stepped down from his role as the Companys Vice President and Corporate Controller, which includes serving as the Companys principal accounting officer. Mr. Monroy decided to step down from such role in order to focus solely on his role as Vice President of regulatory for the Companys utility subsidiary, Public Service Company of New Mexico, a role that he had taken on in July 2022. Mr. Monroys decision to step down from his role as the Companys Vice President and Corporate Controller was not the result of any disagreement with the Company on any matter relating to their operations, policies or practices, or any disagreement in respect of accounting principles, financial statement disclosure or otherwise.





On December 5, 2023, the Company appointed Gerald Robert Bischoff to succeed Mr. Monroy as its Vice President and Controller, which includes serving as the Companys principal accounting officer.





Mr. Bischoff, age 44, joined the Company in 2005 and has served as Director, SEC Reporting and GAAP Analysis since May 2020. Previously, he served in various other accounting roles for the Company and its affiliates, including Assistant Controller Utility Accounting, Director Utility Accounting, Senior Manager General Accounting and Manager Corporate Accounting. Prior to joining the Company in July 2005, Mr. Bischoff was a Senior Audit Associate for KPMG LLP. Mr. Bischoff received a Bachelor of Accountancy degree from New Mexico State University in 2001 and a Master of Accountancy from New Mexico State University in 2002. Mr. Bischoff holds an active license as a Certified Public Accountant.





There are no arrangements or understandings between Mr. Bischoff and any other person in connection with his appointment. There is no family relationship between Mr. Bischoff and any director or executive officer of the Company, and Mr. Bischoff is not a party to any transaction required to be disclosed pursuant to Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K.





Approval of Retention Agreements





On December 5, 2023, the Board of Directors of the Company (the Board) (and the independent directors of the Board, in the case of Ms. Collawn) approved Employee Retention Agreements with Patricia K. Collawn, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Patrick V. Apodaca, Senior Vice President and General Counsel of the Company. On December 4, 2023, the Compensation and Human Capital Committee of the Board (the Compensation Committee) approved an Employee Retention Agreement with Joseph D. Tarry, President and Chief Operating Officer of the Company (collectively, with Ms. Collawn and Mr. Apodaca, the Executives). The Retention Agreements are intended to incentivize the Executives to continue their employment during the pending decision relating to the previously disclosed potential transaction between the Company, Avangrid, Inc. and NM Green Holdings, Inc. pursuant to which NM Green Holdings, Inc. will merge with and into the Company, with the Company surviving as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Avangrid, Inc. (the Transaction)





Pursuant to Ms. Collawns Retention Agreement, she will receive a retention bonus that includes a payment of $375,000 in December 2023 and an award of 26,766 restricted stock rights if she remains employed through the awards vesting date, which is the earliest of (1) 24 months from the grant date, (2) the closing of the Transaction, or (3) six months following the date on which the Company or Avangrid, Inc. decides to abandon the Transaction.





Pursuant to Mr. Apodacas Retention Agreement, he will receive a retention bonus that includes a payment of $125,000 in December 2023 and an award of 8,922 restricted stock rights if he remains employed through the awards vesting date, which is the earliest of (1) 24 months from the grant date, (2) the closing of the Transaction, or (3) six months following the date on which the Company or Avangrid, Inc. decides to abandon the Transaction.





Pursuant to Mr. Tarrys Retention Agreement, he will receive a retention bonus of $1,000,000 with 25% of such retention bonus paid in in December 2023, 25% of such retention bonus paid in December 2024, and 50% of such retention bonus paid in December 2025, provided that Mr. Tarry remains employed through the applicable vesting dates. The Compensation Committee of the Board may elect to convert Mr. Tarrys retention bonus, or any portion thereof, into restricted stock rights at any time before the applicable vesting date pursuant to the terms of his Retention Agreement.





In the event that an Executives employment ends prior to a vesting date applicable to his or her retention bonus, depending on the circumstances of his or her departure, the Executive may be entitled to receive his or her retention bonus in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Executives Retention Agreement.





The foregoing descriptions of Ms. Collawns Retention Agreement, Mr. Apodacas Retention Agreement and Mr. Tarrys Retention Agreement are qualified in their entirety by reference to the text of their respective Retention Agreements, which will be filed with the Companys annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.













SIGNATURE





Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

PNM RESOURCES, INC. (Registrant) Date: December 6, 2023 /s/ Patrick V. Apodaca Patrick V. Apodaca Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary (Officer duly authorized to sign this report)

















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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):

RICEBRAN TECHNOLOGIES (Exact Name of registrant as specified in its charter) California 0-32565 87-0673375 (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation) (Commission File Number) (IRS Employer Identification No.) 25420 Kuykendahl Rd., Suite B300

Tomball , TX 77375 (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

( 281 ) 675-2421 Registrants telephone number, including area code Not Applicable (Former name or former address, if changed since last report)

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 Common stock , no par value per share RIBT OTC Markets (Pinks)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (240.12b-2 of this chapter).

Emerging growth company 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 

Item 1.01 Entry into a Material Definitive Agreement.

The Purchase Agreement

On December 1, 2023, RiceBran Technologies (the  Company ) entered into a securities purchase agreement (the  Purchase Agreement ) with Funicular Funds, LP, a Delaware limited partnership ( Funicular ), pursuant to which the Company sold and issued (i) a secured promissory note in the principal amount of $4,000,000, as more fully described under The Funicular Note below, (ii) 2,222,222 shares (the  Funicular Shares ) of the Companys common stock, no par value (the  Common Stock ), at a purchase price equal to $0.18 per share and (iii) warrants (the  Funicular Warrants ) to purchase 5,010,206 shares of Common Stock (the  Funicular Warrant Shares ), for an aggregate purchase price of $4,000,000 (collectively, the  Private Placement ).

The Funicular Warrants will be exercisable at a price of $0.18 per share, subject to adjustments as provided under the terms of the Funicular Warrants. The Funicular Warrants are exercisable at any time on or after December 1, 2023 until the expiration thereof, provided that the Company has a sufficient number of shares of authorized Common Stock under the Companys Restated and Amended Articles of Incorporation to permit such exercise. The Funicular Warrants have a term of five years from the date of issuance.

The Private Placement closed on December 1, 2023 (the  Closing Date ). The proceeds raised in the Private Placement were used to repay existing debt and for general corporate purposes.

The Registration Rights Agreement

In connection with the Private Placement, on December 1, 2023, the Company entered into a Registration Rights Agreement with Funicular (the  Registration Rights Agreement ), pursuant to which the Company agreed to submit to or file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission within 180 days after the Closing Date a registration statement registering the resale of the Funicular Shares and the Funicular Warrant Shares (the  Resale Registration Statement ), and the Company agreed to use its reasonable best efforts to have the Resale Registration Statement declared effective as promptly as reasonably possible after the filing thereof. In certain circumstances, Funicular can demand the Companys assistance with underwritten offerings and block trades, and Funicular will be entitled to certain piggyback registration rights.

The Funicular Note

On December 1, 2023, the Company entered into a secured promissory note (the  Funicular Note ) in favor of Funicular and guaranteed by its subsidiaries Golden Ridge Rice Mills, Inc., a Delaware corporation ( Golden Ridge ), and MGI Grain Incorporated, a Delaware corporation ( MGI Grain ), evidencing the loan made to the Company by Funicular in the aggregate principal amount of $4 million, funded to the Company on December 1, 2023 net of a discount equal to 10% of the aggregate principal amount. The proceeds of the Funicular Note may be used to pay amounts owed to Republic (as defined below) under a secured promissory note and terminate such promissory note and the related mortgage in favor of Republic and for general working capital needs and other general corporate purposes. The Funicular Note has a stated maturity date of December 1, 2028. Interest accrues at a rate per annum equal to 13.50%. On each interest payment date, the accrued and unpaid interest shall, at the election of the Company in its sole discretion, be either paid in cash or paid in-kind. In addition, the Funicular Note requires payment of a $50,000 fee on account of costs and expenses of Funicular, which fee will be paid either in cash or in-kind, at the Companys election, within thirty days. The obligations under the Funicular Note are guaranteed by Golden Ridge and MGI Grain, and are secured by a security interest in the assets (other than certain excluded assets, the  Collateral ) of the Company, Golden Ridge and MGI Grain, subject to the intercreditor agreement described below. The Funicular Note contains negative and restrictive covenants which limit the ability of the Company, Golden Ridge and MGI to, among other things, transfer or otherwise dispose of the Collateral, incur indebtedness and create, incur, assume or allow liens on the Collateral or any real property owned by the Company, Golden Ridge or MGI Grain.

Amendment to Agreement for Purchase and Sale

On December 1, 2023, the Company, Golden Ridge and MGI Grain, as sellers, and Continental Republic Capital, LLC d/b/a Republic Business Credit, a Louisiana limited liability company ( Republic ), as purchaser, entered into a Fifth Amendment, Consent and Waiver to the Agreement for Purchase and Sale (the  Fifth Amendment ) to, among other things, (i) modify the provisions granting a security interest in the accounts receivable and other assets of the Company, Golden Ridge and MGI Grain to Republic in light of the Funicular Note and the corresponding intercreditor arrangement between Republic and Funicular, (ii) modify certain covenants, (iii) waive certain existing defaults and (iv) provide for Republics consent to the entry into the Funicular Note by the Company, Golden Ridge and MGI Grain and the transactions contemplated thereby. In connection with the Funicular Note and the Fifth Amendment, Republic and Funicular entered into an intercreditor agreement on December 1, 2023, which intercreditor agreement provides for, among other things, Republics priority security interests in accounts receivables and related assets of the Company, Golden Ridge, and MGI Grain, and Funiculars corresponding priority security interest in the Collateral other than such accounts receivables and related assets.

The Exchange Agreements

On December 1, 2023, the Company consummated a transaction pursuant to an exchange agreement (the  Cove Lane Exchange Agreement ) with Cove Lane Master Fund LLC ( Cove Lane ) to exchange the existing Series A Warrant held by Cove Lane or its designees for 150,000 shares of Common Stock to be issued in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Section 3(a)(9) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the  Securities Act ), upon the terms and conditions set forth in the Cove Lane Exchange Agreement.

On December 1, 2023, the Company consummated a transaction pursuant to an exchange agreement (the  Sabby Exchange Agreement ) with Sabby Volatility Warrant Master Fund, Ltd. ( Sabby ) to exchange the existing Common Stock Purchase Warrant held by Sabby or its designees for (i) 323,810 shares of Common Stock and (ii) warrants to purchase up to 1,200,000 shares of Common Stock (the  Sabby Warrants ) each to be issued in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Section 3(a)(9) of the Securities Act upon the terms and conditions set forth in the Sabby Exchange Agreement.

The Sabby Warrants will be exercisable at a price of $0.2016 per share, subject to adjustments as provided under the terms of the Sabby Warrants. The Sabby Warrants are exercisable at any time on or after December 1, 2023 until the expiration thereof. The Sabby Warrants have a term of three years from the date of issuance.

On December 1, 2023, the Company consummated a transaction pursuant to an exchange agreement (the  Hudson Bay Exchange Agreement  and, collectively with the Cove Lane Exchange Agreement and the Sabby Exchange Agreement, the  Exchange Agreements ) with Hudson Bay Master Fund Ltd. ( Hudson Bay ) to exchange the existing Common Stock Purchase Warrant held by Hudson Bay or its designees for 155,000 shares of Common Stock to be issued in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Section 3(a)(9) of the Securities Act upon the terms and conditions set forth in the Hudson Bay Exchange Agreement.

The foregoing description of the Funicular Warrants, the Sabby Warrants, the Purchase Agreement, the Registration Rights Agreement, the Exchange Agreements, the Funicular Note and the Fifth Amendment are qualified in their entirety by reference to the full text of the form of the Funicular Warrant, the form of the Sabby Warrant, the Purchase Agreement, the Registration Rights Agreement, the Exchange Agreements, the Funicular Note and the Fifth Amendment, which are attached as Exhibits 4.1, 4.2, 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6 and 10.7 respectively, to this Current Report on Form 8-K, and which are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference.

Item 2.03 Creation of a Direct Financial Obligation or an Obligation under an Off-Balance Sheet Arrangement of a Registrant.

The information contained above under Item 1.01 with respect to the Funicular Note is hereby incorporated by reference in response to this Item 2.03 of Form 8-K.

Item 3.02 Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities.

The information contained above under Item 1.01 is hereby incorporated by reference in response to this Item 3.02 of Form 8-K. The issuance of the Funicular Shares and the Funicular Warrants in the Private Placement have not been registered under the Securities Act, and are instead being offered pursuant to the exemption provided in Section 4(a)(2) under the Securities Act. The exchanges provided for under the Exchange Agreements are intended to be exempt from registration under the Securities Act by virtue of Section 3(a)(9) thereof.

Item 7.01 Regulation of FD Disclosure.

On December 4, 2023, the Company issued a press release regarding, among other things, the Private Placement, the Funicular Note and the Fifth Amendment. A copy of the press release is attached as Exhibit 99.1 hereto. In accordance with General Instruction B.2 of Form 8-K, the information in this Item 7.01 of this Current Report on Form 8-K and Exhibit 99.1 attached hereto shall not be deemed filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act except as expressly set forth by specific reference in such a filing.

Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(d) Exhibits

SIGNATURE

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

RICEBRAN TECHNOLOGIES Date: December 6, 2023 By: /s/ William J. Keneally Name: William J. Keneally Title: Interim Chief Financial Officer and Secretary

ATTACHMENTS / EXHIBITS

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EXHIBIT 10.2

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EXHIBIT 10.4

EXHIBIT 10.5

EXHIBIT 10.6

EXHIBIT 10.7

EXHIBIT 99.1

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The eight airmen killed in the crash of a CV-22B Osprey, Nov. 29, 2023. Top row, left to right: Maj. Jeffrey Hoernemann, Maj. Eric Spendlove, Maj. Luke Unrath and Capt. Terrell Brayman. Bottom: Tech Sgt. Zachary Lavoy, Staff Sgt. Jake Turnage, Senior Airman Brian Johnson and Staff Sgt. Jake Galliher. (U.S. Air Force)

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan  Public tributes from friends, families and others have been pouring in for eight airmen killed last week when their CV-22B Osprey crashed off Japans southwestern coast.

The tiltrotor  assigned to the 353rd Special Operations Wing at Yokota Air Base in western Tokyo  went down Nov. 29 near Yakushima, an island in Kagoshima prefecture.

The body of Staff Sgt. Jake Galliher, 24, of Pittsfield, Mass., was recovered shortly after the crash. Five others were found Monday along with the Ospreys fuselage; two remain missing.

Air Force Special Operations Command announced Tuesday that search-and-rescue efforts have transitioned to a recovery operation and identified the other seven airmen:

 Maj. Jeffrey Hoernemann, 32, a CV-22 instructor pilot and officer in charge of training from Andover, Minn.

 Maj. Eric Spendlove, 36, a flight surgeon and medical operations flight commander from St. George, Utah

 Maj. Luke Unrath, 34, a CV-22 pilot and flight commander from Riverside, Calif.

 Capt. Terrell Brayman, 32, a CV-22 pilot and flight commander from Pittsford, N.Y.

 Tech Sgt. Zachary Lavoy, 33, a medical operations flight chief from Oviedo, Fla.

 Staff Sgt. Jake Turnage, 25, a flight engineer from Kennesaw, Ga.

 Senior Airman Brian Johnson, 32, a flight engineer from Reynoldsburg, Ohio

Some of the airmens family members took to social media to publicly honor their loved ones.

Please keep my son Zachary Lavoy in your prayers, his mother, Ella Lavoy, wrote on Facebook. His contagious smile will only live in our photos and memories. He loved his country, his job and lived to serve.

Turnages father, Jim Turnage, posted a joint message from the family.

We grieve but not as those with no hope, the Facebook message said. Jake is with Jesus.

Hoernemanns wife, Jess Boozer, shared how proud she is of her husband.

If I knew Wednesday morning when you left for work would be the last time I saw you, I would have hugged you tighter and never let you go, she wrote on Facebook. You will always be my best friend and the greatest love of my life.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered flags be flown at half-staff to honor Unrath and the other airmen.

Jennifer and I are heartbroken by the loss of eight Airmen, including Maj. Luke Unrath of Riverside, and we send our deepest condolences to their family, friends and colleagues during this painful time, he wrote in a statement Tuesday. California joins the nation in mourning this devastating loss and honoring their service to our country.

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox thanked Spendlove for his service in a Tuesday post to X, formerly known as Twitter.

Were deeply saddened to learn about the tragic passing of U.S. Air Force Maj. Eric V. Spendlove from St. George, Utah, he wrote. Maj. Spendlove served this nation with honor, and our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time.

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., said the entire states prayers are with those who knew Brayman.

My heart goes out to the family and loved ones of U.S. Air Force Capt. Terrell Brayman, a New Yorker who was tragically lost in an aircraft crash off the coast of Japan, she wrote Wednesday on Facebook.

Johnsons alma mater, Morehead State University, issued a statement remembering him as a very involved and engaged student who was loved across campus and a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity.

In Japan, Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa offered letters of condolences to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel.

The Government of Japan expresses its deepest respect and gratitude to their contributions to the Japan-U.S. Alliance, she wrote. I would like to extend my sincere condolences for the loss of eight crew members and extend my deepest sympathy to their bereaved families.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, in a condolence letter to President Joe Biden, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the members of U.S. Forces Japan who carry out missions day and night, far away from their hometowns and families, to maintain peace and security of Japan.

Stars and Stripes reporter Hana Kusumoto contributed to this report.
Staff Sgt. William Jenkins, a loadmaster with the 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron at Yokota Air Base, Japan, watches an Operation Christmas Drop bundles fall to Falalop, an island in the Federated States of Micronesia, Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023. (Seth Robson/Stars and Stripes)

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam  Parachutes floated colorful crates brimming with provisions to a pair of inaccessible Oceania islands Tuesday, part of the Defense Departments longest running humanitarian-aid mission.

Six bundles at Andersen that morning were loaded onto a C-130J Super Hercules from the 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron at Yokota Air Base, Japan. The plane then flew 400 miles southwest to Yap, a cluster of small islands in the Federated States of Micronesia.

Each Operation Christmas Drop bundle  filled and decorated last week by service members and other volunteers  contains essentials like food, water, medical supplies, fishing gear, clothing and toys.

Now in its 72nd year, the tradition began during the Christmas season of 1952, when the crew of a B-29 Superfortress saw islanders waving at them from Kapingamarangi, Micronesia, according to a writeup on Andersens website.

In the spirit of Christmas the aircrew dropped a bundle of supplies attached to a parachute to the islanders below, giving the operation its name, the writeup said. Today, airdrop operations include more than 50 islands throughout the Pacific.

This years mission, which runs until Dec. 13 and includes sorties to the Republic of Palau, will drop enough provisions for 20,000 islanders, the Air Force said. U.S. airlifters are flying alongside C-130Js from Canada and C-130Hs from Japan and South Korea.

Capt. Ian Sweeney, an Operation Christmas Drop pilot, steers a C-130J Super Hercules from Guam to the Federated States of Micronesia, Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023. He is assigned to the 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron at Yokota Air Base, Japan. (Seth Robson/Stars and Stripes) Staff Sgt. William Jenkins, a loadmaster with the 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron at Yokota Air Base, Japan, watches an Operation Christmas Drop bundles fall to Falalop, an island in the Federated States of Micronesia, Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023. (Seth Robson/Stars and Stripes) U.S. Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia Jennifer Johnson, left, President of the Federated States of Micronesia Wesley Simina, center, and U.S. Forces Japan commander Lt. Gen. Ricky Rupp push an Operation Christmas Drop bundle onto a C-130J Super Hercules at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Monday, Dec. 4, 2023. (Seth Robson/Stars and Stripes) Staff Sgt. William Jenkins, a loadmaster with the 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron at Yokota Air Base, Japan, watches an Operation Christmas Drop bundles fall to Falalop, an island in the Federated States of Micronesia, Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023. (Seth Robson/Stars and Stripes)

Flying at low levels  1,000 to 500 feet above the islands  is special, Super Herc pilot Capt. Ian Sweeney said after Tuesdays mission.

He wore a Santa hat as his plane descended to 300 feet. Loadmasters then kicked the bundles, two at a time, off the ramp and watched them float toward lush green land or brilliant blue shallow waters.

The first two sets dropped on Falalop, a 2  acre island home to between 500 and 600 people. Two bundles floated down to a beach and two landed on an old airstrip.

The last bundles dropped just off the coast of nearby Tagaulop.

This was my first time delivering a bundle of humanitarian aid to these villagers, Sweeney said.

The aircrafts crew were in radio contact with the islanders during the mission, he added.

The gratefulness they expressed is something we rarely experience, Sweeney said, noting that airlifters dont often get to speak with those who receive their drops.

A day earlier at Andersen, a group of dignitaries  President of the Federated States of Micronesia Wesley Simina; U.S. Ambassador to Micronesia Jennifer Johnson; U.S. Forces Japan/Fifth Air Force commander Lt. Gen. Ricky Rupp; and longtime Christmas Drop volunteer Bruce Best  kicked off the mission by pushing a bundle onto one of three Yokota-based Super Hercs.

Christmas Drop is a demonstration of friendship between the United States and Micronesia, Simina told those gathered for the push ceremony.

Its a testament to the intense cooperation between our nations, he said.

Maj. Gen. John Klein, commander of the Air Force Expeditionary Center at Joint Base McGuire-Dix in Lakehurst, N.J., praised Andersens 734th Air Mobility Squadron for planning and coordinating the operation.

What this allows us to do is practice dynamic delivery airdrop to uncontrolled and non-surveyed drop zones, he told Stars and Stripes after the push ceremony. Thats a critical capability that Pacific Air Forces need in this theater.

Missions like those carried out during Operation Christmas Drop could be required in a natural disaster or a crisis, Klein said.

From a logistics perspective, you are dealing with the tyranny of distance, he said, adding that airlift is the only way to rapidly supply forces in the region.
Ships sponsor Ellyn S. Dunford christened the Bougainville (LHA 8) at HIIs Ingalls Shipbuilding. Pictured from left is Under Secretary of the Navy Erik Raven, Ingalls Shipbuilding President Kari Wilkinson, Prospective Commanding Officer, Bougainville (LHA 8) Capt. Harry Marsh, and ships sponsor Ellyn S. Dunford. (Huntington Ingalls Industries)

(Tribune News Service)  Ingalls Shipbuilding christened the U.S. Navys newest amphibious assault ship, the future USS Bougainville (LHA 8), during dockside ceremonies at the Pascagoula, Miss., shipyard Saturday morning.

(These) ships, like the future USS Bougainville, make our Navy and Marine Corps team a potent fight; providing forward-posture across the globe, ready to respond to crisis and disaster, said Under Secretary of the Navy Erik Raven, the events keynote speaker.

Raven also paid tribute to Ingalls shipbuilders.

I see why the Department of the Navy has enjoyed such a long and successful relationship with this yard, he said. You are special, and together you represent the finest qualities of our great nation. Please remember this and remember that what you do matters. You play a critical role in defending our way of life.

An artist rendering of the future USS Bougainville (LHA 8). (U.S. Navy photo illustration/Huntington Ingalls Industries)

U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James Adams III also spoke during the ceremony. Adams was nominated in July for promotion to lieutenant general and to serve as commandant for the Marine Corps Programs & Resources, but his promotion is one of hundreds that has been held up by U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, who announced Tuesday he was ending his blockade of those promotions.

Bougainvilles christening symbolizes their enduring legacy  a legacy etched into the very soul of this vessel, Adams said. As was the case with Bougainville, the nation needs modern amphibious ships. They are the cornerstone of our nations global expeditionary crisis response force.

Bougainville is the second ship to be named in honor of Bougainville Island in the Solomons, the site of a World War II campaign in which the Navy, Marine Corps and U.S. allies secured a strategic airfield from the Japanese forces in the northern Solomons, which aided in breaking the Japanese stronghold in the Pacific.

Today is not only a day to celebrate our namesake, representatives of the successful outcome of a World War II campaign, but also the teamwork and collaboration of our United States Navy and Marine Corps that enabled it, said Ingalls president Kari Wilkinson.

To fulfill our mission here in the shipyard, our sailors and Marines serve as a stellar example of how this extended network works together to fulfill a bigger purpose.

Bougainvilles ship sponsor is Ellyn S. Dunford, wife of Gen. Joe Dunford Jr., the 19th chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the 36th commandant of the Marine Corps.

From naval architects and engineers to welders and the supply team, they experienced their own challenges, including a pandemic, and true to the spirit of those who fought at Bougainville, they all met the challenge with tenacity and overcame each challenge, Ellyn Dunford said.

Ingalls Shipbuilding has delivered 15 large-deck amphibious ships to the Navy, including the first two in the America class: America (LHA 6) in 2014 and USS Tripoli (LHA 7) in 2020. In addition, Fallujah (LHA 9) is currently under construction at the shipyard.

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(Tribune News Service)  Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola closed for about three hours after law enforcement received a bomb threat Wednesday morning, according to a release from the base.

NAS Pensacola said the person suspected of making the threat is in custody.

The threat was called in to the base about 9:35 a.m. Wednesday, which marks the fourth anniversary of a terrorist attack in which an armed gunman, a Saudi Arabian student, opened fire on the Naval base, killing three and injuring eight others.

Naval Security Forces, working with local law enforcement, executed preplanned responses and are in the process of clearing the affected areas, according to the release. No one was injured and the individual suspected of making the threat is in custody.

Gates to the base were reopened by 12:45 p.m. Wednesday.

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U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Daniel Iannarelli explains the next phase of a field training exercise to Nigerien troops at Air Base 201 in Niger in 2022. U.S. defense officials on Tuesday downplayed the idea that American military training is responsible for a series of coups in Africa, including one in Niger in July. (Michael Matkin/U.S. Air Force)

Pentagon officials speaking to a House panel Tuesday downplayed the idea that American training was responsible for a series of coups in Africa, where several elected governments have been overthrown by the military.

Celeste Wallander, assistant defense secretary for international security affairs, said she did not see a causal relationship between such training and coups in Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso over the past three years.

During the past 12 years, the U.S. has trained some 21,000 African troops in various military education programs, Wallander said.

And of those, 20 were involved in coups, which is .01%, she told the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Political upheaval in places such as Niger, where a July coup ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, put a spotlight on American military involvement in the Sahel region.

Given the close ties between those involved in Nigers coup and the U.S. military, questions have been raised about the effectiveness of American training programs.

Rep. John James, a Michigan Republican and U.S. Military Academy graduate, said during the Tuesday hearing that it was concerning to see a a revolving door of coup leaders and despots that are trained by American forces.

Wallander responded that the U.S. training emphasizes civilian control of the military. A takeaway from the recent coups, however, is that the military must refocus and recommit to reinforcing that lesson with partner forces, she said.

Beyond the question of training, political turmoil in Niger has also added to overall volatility, as the country has become a hot spot for terrorism in Africa, Wallander said.

Violent extremist organizations thrive in areas of instability and seek to leverage that instability for their own ends, as evidenced by the attacks weve seen in Niger since the coup, she said.

Since the coup, the U.S. has stopped counterterrorism operations at its drone base in the city of Agadez and halted all collaboration with Niger on counterterrorism training.

There also are concerns that Russia could seek to take advantage of a vacuum left by U.S. disengagement, with the Kremlin potentially deploying private contractors or its own military trainers to Niger as an alternative.

On Monday, Russian defense officials met with counterparts in Niger. The two sides signed an agreement to boost military cooperation, the Moscow Times and Agence France-Presse reported this week.

Mercenaries from Russias Wagner Group have long been active in Africa and operate in nearby Mali.

Unlike Moscow, the U.S. is limited in its ability to coordinate with Niger, given that according to U.S. law, a coup triggers a mandate that foreign aid to the country at issue be curtailed. That could mean a loss of influence for the United States.

We also cannot afford to compromise our regional influence and security partnerships, which are threatened by competitors who are less concerned with democratic values and human rights, she said.

But Wallander didnt detail how the U.S. can maintain its influence in places like Niger if it is sidelined by U.S. regulations.
Former U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy meets with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif., on April 5, 2023. Taiwans top trade negotiator signaled a desire to expand Taipeis initial agreement with Washington into one that more closely resembles a free trade deal, as the export-dependent economy works to counter Chinas efforts at isolating it. (Office of U.S. House Speaker)

(Tribune News Service)  Taiwans top trade negotiator signaled a desire to expand Taipeis initial agreement with Washington into one that more closely resembles a free trade deal, as the export-dependent economy works to counter Chinas efforts at isolating it.

The islands trade officials are talking with their U.S. counterparts about broadening the scope of their current arrangement reached earlier this year, John Deng, the head of Taiwans Office of Trade Negotiations, said in an interview in Taipei on Friday.

One goal is to expand the coverage: more topics like agriculture, labor. We are willing to talk whatever international trade regime needs to address, Deng told Bloomberg News. Second is the market access issue, that is tariffs. We hope that one day the U.S. government is ready for tariff talk.

There is no timetable for the next round of talks, Deng added.

Known formally as the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade, the current trade framework between the two economies covers issues such as regulatory practices, customs and corruption.

But it excludes anything about tariff reductions, traditionally called market access  thorny issues which are difficult to resolve, given tensions between the U.S. and China. Beijing claims the democratically ruled island as part of its own territory.

The Biden administration also has opposed negotiating traditional free-trade deals, having refrained from picking up tariff talks with the U.K. and Kenya that it inherited from the Trump administration, due in part to opposition to past deals in Congress and a concern that such pacts in the past hurt American workers by incentivizing manufacturers to move overseas for cheaper labor.

President Tsai Ing-wen has long sought a free-trade agreement with Washington. Along with being a major economic coup for Taipei, a broader agreement more closely resembling a free-trade deal would be a political one too, further solidifying U.S. support.

Talk about potentially enhanced trade cooperation with Washington also comes as Taiwan navigates a precarious relationship with Beijing. China has worked in recent years to punish the islands economy through measures including sanctions on food products and travel curbs on tourists.

Signals of support

Taiwan has been encouraged by strong signals of support from U.S. lawmakers, Deng said. He pointed to a show of unanimous approval in July of the existing trade initiative with Taiwan by a U.S. Senate thats often been reluctant to ratify trade agreements.

Talks are already underway between Taiwans trade negotiators and President Joe Bidens team, led by U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai. Deng said Taiwan wants to push talks as far as we can on a working level, before awaiting sign-off from each government.

One obstacle Taiwan faces in expanding its deal with the U.S. could be the politically sensitive issue of migrant workers employed by the islands distant-water fishing fleet.

An estimated 35,000 foreign fishermen  predominantly from Southeast Asia  often face mistreatment that ranges from withheld pay, to punishing 18 to 22-hour work days, to physical abuse aboard Taiwanese fishing boats, according to a report by the U.S. Department of Labor. The report lists Taiwanese seafood as a product of forced labor.

Our legal system should be able to address that, Deng said. But it takes time to change, to change law, to change practices.

Taiwans advances on accelerating economic dialogue with the U.S. contrasts with the lack of success in efforts to join a major regional alliance called the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.

That pact is largely centered around nations bordering the Pacific Ocean and in East Asia, such as Australia, Canada, Singapore and Vietnam. It was once seen as a way of balancing Chinas growing influence in the region before former President Donald Trump pulled the U.S. out of the pact, leaving Japan as its dominant economy.

The main hurdle to Taiwan joining that deal centers around Chinese objections. Beijing opposes Taipeis participation in international organizations that would imply the island has statehood.

China has also applied to join the CPTPP. New applicants can only join the trade pact with the support of all other members.

Deng said Beijing has sent a clear message to countries in that trade agreement that they are only to admit China, not Taiwan. Taipei has to be realistic that it might not be easy to join, he added.

Deng said a possible solution for Taiwan could be to form a network of bilateral free trade deals.

Society here has a fear that China is trying to isolate Taiwan, and they have achieved that aim in many areas, he said. So to get Taiwan out of this isolation in the trade and economic area, maybe its a series of bilateral deals.

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ASTANA, Kazakhstan, December 6. Kazakhstan and Russia will strengthen mutually beneficial trade, economic, and investment cooperation, Trend reports.

This topic was discussed during a meeting between the Minister of National Economy of Kazakhstan Alibek Kuantyrov and the Minister of Economic Development of Russia Maxim Reshetnikov in Moscow, Trend reports.

Kuantyrov noted that Russia is one of the important trade and economic partners of Kazakhstan.

Mutual trade turnover has increased by more than 30 percent in the last three years. Mutual commerce totaled about $19 billion at the end of the first nine months of 2023, a record figure.

Furthermore, the ministers of the two nations discussed concerns concerning the development of SMEs. According to Kuantyrov, the number of functioning SMEs in Kazakhstan has increased to 36.4 percent, with a target of 40 percent by 2030.

According to the minister, the increase in the number of functioning SMEs in Kazakhstan is linked to greater digitalization and government support.

Furthermore, the parties addressed government assistance measures to encourage international investment.

The volume of trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Russia in 2022 amounted to $26.123 billion. Kazakhstan's exports to Russia during the reporting period amounted to $8.78 billion, while imports amounted to $17.34 billion.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin speaks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a visit to the Pentagon on Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023, as Army Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, looks on. (Defense Department)

On June 15, in a conference room at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, flanked by top U.S. commanders, sat around a table with his Ukrainian counterpart, who was joined by aides from Kyiv. The room was heavy with an air of frustration.

Austin, in his deliberate baritone, asked Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov about Ukraines decision-making in the opening days of its long-awaited counteroffensive, pressing him on why his forces werent using Western-supplied mine-clearing equipment to enable a larger, mechanized assault, or using smoke to conceal their advances. Despite Russias thick defensive lines, Austin said, the Kremlins troops werent invincible.

Reznikov, a bald, bespectacled lawyer, said Ukraines military commanders were the ones making those decisions. But he noted that Ukraines armored vehicles were being destroyed by Russian helicopters, drones and artillery with every attempt to advance. Without air support, he said, the only option was to use artillery to shell Russian lines, dismount from the targeted vehicles and proceed on foot.

We cant maneuver because of the land-mine density and tank ambushes, Reznikov said, according to an official who was present.

The meeting in Brussels, less than two weeks into the campaign, illustrates how a counteroffensive born in optimism has failed to deliver its expected punch, generating friction and second-guessing between Washington and Kyiv and raising deeper questions about Ukraines ability to retake decisive amounts of territory.

As winter approaches, and the front lines freeze into place, Ukraines most senior military officials acknowledge that the war has reached a stalemate.

This examination of the lead-up to Ukraines counteroffensive is based on interviews with more than 30 senior officials from Ukraine, the United States and European nations. It provides new insights and previously unreported details about Americas deep involvement in the military planning behind the counteroffensive and the factors that contributed to its disappointments. The second part of this two-part account examines how the battle unfolded on the ground over the summer and fall, and the widening fissures between Washington and Kyiv. Some of the officials spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive deliberations.

Key elements that shaped the counteroffensive and the initial outcome include:

 Ukrainian, U.S. and British military officers held eight major tabletop war games to build a campaign plan. But Washington miscalculated the extent to which Ukraines forces could be transformed into a Western-style fighting force in a short period  especially without giving Kyiv air power integral to modern militaries.

 U.S. and Ukrainian officials sharply disagreed at times over strategy, tactics and timing. The Pentagon wanted the assault to begin in mid-April to prevent Russia from continuing to strengthen its lines. The Ukrainians hesitated, insisting they werent ready without additional weapons and training.

 U.S. military officials were confident that a mechanized frontal attack on Russian lines was feasible with the troops and weapons that Ukraine had. The simulations concluded that Kyivs forces, in the best case, could reach the Sea of Azov and cut off Russian troops in the south in 60 to 90 days.

 The United States advocated a focused assault along that southern axis, but Ukraines leadership believed its forces had to attack at three distinct points along the 600-mile front, southward toward both Melitopol and Berdyansk on the Sea of Azov and east toward the embattled city of Bakhmut.

 The U.S. intelligence community had a more downbeat view than the U.S. military, assessing that the offensive had only a 50-50 chance of success given the stout, multilayered defenses Russia had built up over the winter and spring.

 Many in Ukraine and the West underestimated Russias ability to rebound from battlefield disasters and exploit its perennial strengths: manpower, mines and a willingness to sacrifice lives on a scale that few other countries can countenance.

 As the expected launch of the offensive approached, Ukrainian military officials feared they would suffer catastrophic losses  while American officials believed the toll would ultimately be higher without a decisive assault.

(Laris Karklis/The Washington Post)

The year began with Western resolve at its peak, Ukrainian forces highly confident and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy predicting a decisive victory. But now, there is uncertainty on all fronts. Morale in Ukraine is waning. International attention has been diverted to the Middle East. Even among Ukraines supporters, there is growing political reluctance to contribute more to a precarious cause. At almost every point along the front, expectations and results have diverged as Ukraine has shifted to a slow-moving dismounted slog that has retaken only slivers of territory.

We wanted faster results, Zelenskyy said in an interview with the Associated Press last week. From that perspective, unfortunately, we did not achieve the desired results. And this is a fact.

Together, all these factors make victory for Ukraine far less likely than years of war and destruction.

The campaigns inconclusive and discouraging early months pose sobering questions for Kyivs Western backers about the future, as Zelenskyy  supported by an overwhelming majority of Ukrainians  vows to fight until Ukraine restores the borders established in its 1991 independence from the Soviet Union.

Thats going to take years and a lot of blood, a British security official said, if its even possible. Is Ukraine up for that? What are the manpower implications? The economic implications? Implications for Western support?

The year now stands to end with Russian President Vladimir Putin more certain than ever that he can wait out a fickle West and fully absorb the Ukrainian territory already seized by his troops.

Gaming out the battle plan

In a conference call in the late fall of 2022, after Kyiv had won back territory in the north and south, Austin spoke with Gen. Valery Zaluzhny, Ukraines top military commander, and asked him what he would need for a spring offensive. Zaluzhny responded that he required 1,000 armored vehicles and nine new brigades, trained in Germany and ready for battle.

I took a big gulp, Austin said later, according to an official with knowledge of the call. Thats near-impossible, he told colleagues.

In the first months of 2023, military officials from Britain, Ukraine and the United States concluded a series of war games at a U.S. Army base in Wiesbaden, Germany, where Ukrainian officers were embedded with a newly established command responsible for supporting Kyivs fight.

The sequence of eight high-level tabletop exercises formed the backbone for the U.S.-enabled effort to hone a viable, detailed campaign plan, and to determine what Western nations would need to provide to give it the means to succeed.

We brought all the allies and partners together and really squeezed them hard to get additional mechanized vehicles, a senior U.S. defense official said.

During the simulations, each of which lasted several days, participants were designated to play the part either of Russian forces  whose capabilities and behavior were informed by Ukrainian and allied intelligence  or Ukrainian troops and commanders, whose performance was bound by the reality that they would be facing serious constraints in manpower and ammunition.

The planners ran the exercises using specialized war-gaming software and Excel spreadsheets  and, sometimes, simply by moving pieces around on a map. The simulations included smaller component exercises that each focused on a particular element of the fight  offensive operations or logistics. The conclusions were then fed back into the evolving campaign plan.

Top officials including Gen. Mark A. Milley, then chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrsky, commander of Ukrainian ground forces, attended several of the simulations and were briefed on the results.

During one visit to Wiesbaden, Milley spoke with Ukrainian special operations troops  who were working with American Green Berets  in the hope of inspiring them ahead of operations in enemy-controlled areas.

There should be no Russian who goes to sleep without wondering if theyre going to get their throat slit in the middle of the night, Milley said, according to an official with knowledge of the event. You gotta get back there, and create a campaign behind the lines.

Ukrainian officials hoped the offensive could re-create the success of the fall of 2022, when they recovered parts of the Kharkiv region in the northeast and the city of Kherson in the south in a campaign that surprised even Ukraines biggest backers. Again, their focus would be in more than one place.

But Western officials said the war games affirmed their assessment that Ukraine would be best served by concentrating its forces on a single strategic objective  a massed attack through Russian-held areas to the Sea of Azov, severing the Kremlins land route from Russia to Crimea, a critical supply line.

The rehearsals gave the United States the opportunity to say at several points to the Ukrainians, I know you really, really, really want to do this, but its not going to work, one former U.S. official said.

At the end of the day, though, it would be Zelenskyy, Zaluzhny and other Ukrainian leaders who would make the decision, the former official noted.

In a post-talks press conference at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley speak on the ongoing Ukrainian counteroffensive and the substantial commitment of more than $76 billion in direct security assistance from the United States and global partners. (Alexander Riedel/Stars and Stripes)

Officials tried to assign probabilities to different scenarios, including a Russian capitulation  deemed a really low likelihood  or a major Ukrainian setback that would create an opening for a major Russian counterattack  also a slim probability.

Then what youve got is the reality in the middle, with degrees of success, a British official said.

The most optimistic scenario for cutting the land bridge was 60 to 90 days. The exercises also predicted a difficult and bloody fight, with losses of soldiers and equipment as high as 30 to 40 percent, according to U.S. officials.

American military officers had seen casualties come in far lower than estimated in the major battles of Iraq and Afghanistan. They considered the estimates a starting point for planning medical care and battlefield evacuation so that losses never reached the projected levels.

The numbers can be sobering, the senior U.S. defense official said. But they never are as high as predicted, because we know we have to do things to make sure we dont.

U.S. officials also believed that more Ukrainian troops would ultimately be killed if Kyiv failed to mount a decisive assault and the conflict became a drawn-out war of attrition.

But they acknowledged the delicacy of suggesting a strategy that would entail significant losses, no matter the final figure.

It was easy for us to tell them in a tabletop exercise, OK, youve just got to focus on one place and push really hard,  a senior U.S. official said. They were going to lose a lot of people and they were going to lose a lot of the equipment.

Those choices, the senior official said, become much harder on the battlefield.

On that, a senior Ukrainian military official agreed. War-gaming doesnt work, the official said in retrospect, in part because of the new technology that was transforming the battlefield. Ukrainian soldiers were fighting a war unlike anything NATO forces had experienced: a large conventional conflict, with World World I-style trenches overlaid by omnipresent drones and other futuristic tools  and without the air superiority the U.S. military has had in every modern conflict it has fought.

All these methods ... you can take them neatly and throw them away, you know? the senior Ukrainian said of the war-game scenarios. And throw them away because it doesnt work like that now.

Disagreements about deployments

The Americans had long questioned the wisdom of Kyivs decision to keep forces around the besieged eastern city of Bakhmut.

Ukrainians saw it differently. Bakhmut holds had become shorthand for pride in their troops fierce resistance against a bigger enemy. For months, Russian and Ukrainian artillery had pulverized the city. Soldiers killed and wounded one another by the thousands to make gains measured sometimes by city blocks.

The city finally fell to Russia in May.

Zelenskyy, backed by his top commander, stood firm about the need to retain a major presence around Bakhmut and strike Russian forces there as part of the counteroffensive. To that end, Zaluzhny maintained more forces near Bakhmut than he did in the south, including the countrys most experienced units, U.S. officials observed with frustration.

Ukrainian officials argued that they needed to sustain a robust fight in the Bakhmut area because otherwise Russia would try to reoccupy parts of the Kharkiv region and advance in Donetsk  a key objective for Putin, who wants to seize that whole region.

We told [the Americans], If you assumed the seats of our generals, youd see that if we dont make Bakhmut a point of contention, [the Russians] would,  one senior Ukrainian official said. We cant let that happen.

In addition, Zaluzhny envisioned making the formidable length of the 600-mile front a problem for Russia, according to the senior British official. The Ukrainian general wanted to stretch Russias much larger occupying force  unfamiliar with the terrain and already facing challenges with morale and logistics  to dilute its fighting power.

Western officials saw problems with that approach, which would also diminish the firepower of Ukraines military at any single point of attack. Western military doctrine dictated a concentrated push toward a single objective.

The Americans yielded, however.

They know the terrain. They know the Russians, said a senior U.S. official. Its not our war. And we had to kind of sit back into that.

A German military instructor, third from left, introduces Ukrainian soldiers to the Patriot air defense system during a training event in Germany in an undated photo shared Feb. 17, 2023, by the Ukrainian Defense Ministry on Twitter. (German Defense Ministry)

The weapons Kyiv needed

On Feb. 3, Jake Sullivan, President Joe Bidens national security adviser, called together the administrations top national security officials to review the counteroffensive plan.

The White Houses subterranean Situation Room was being renovated, so the top echelons of the State, Defense and Treasury departments, along with the CIA, gathered in a secure conference room in the adjacent Eisenhower Executive Office Building.

Most were already familiar with Ukraines three-pronged approach. The goal was for Bidens senior advisers to voice their approval or reservations to one another and try to reach consensus on their joint advice to the president.

The questions posed by Sullivan were simple, said a person who attended. First, could Washington and its partners successfully prepare Ukraine to break through Russias heavily fortified defenses?

And then, even if the Ukrainians were prepared, could they actually do it?

Milley, with his ever-ready green maps of Ukraine, displayed the potential axes of attack and the deployment of Ukrainian and Russian forces. He and Austin explained their conclusion that Ukraine, to be successful, needed to fight a different way, one senior administration official closely involved in the planning recalled.

Ukraines military, after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, had become a defensive force. Since 2014 it had focused on a grinding but low-level fight against Russian-backed forces in the eastern Donbas region. To orchestrate a large-scale advance would require a significant shift in its force structure and tactics.

The planning called for wider and better Western training, which up to that point had focused on teaching small groups and individuals to use Western-provided weapons. Thousands of troops would be instructed in Germany in large unit formations and U.S.-style battlefield maneuvers, whose principles dated to World War II. For American troops, training in what was known as combined arms operations often lasted more than a year. The Ukraine plan proposed condensing that into a few months.

Instead of firing artillery, then inching forward and firing some more, the Ukrainians would be fighting and shooting at the same time, with newly trained brigades moving forward with armored vehicles and artillery support in a kind of symphonic way, the senior administration official said.

The Biden administration announced in early January that it would send Bradley Fighting Vehicles; Britain agreed to transfer 14 Challenger tanks. Later that month, after a grudging U.S. announcement that it would provide top-line Abrams M1 tanks by the fall, Germany and other NATO nations pledged hundreds of German-made Leopard tanks in time for the counteroffensive.

A far bigger problem was the supply of 155mm shells, which would enable Ukraine to compete with Russias vast artillery arsenal. The Pentagon calculated that Kyiv needed 90,000 or more a month. While U.S. production was increasing, it was barely more than a tenth of that.

It was just math, the former senior official said. At a certain point, we just wouldnt be able to provide them.

Sullivan laid out options. South Korea had massive quantities of the U.S.-provided munitions, but its laws prohibited sending weapons to war zones. The Pentagon calculated that about 330,000 155mm shells could be transferred by air and sea within 41 days if Seoul could be persuaded.

Senior administration officials had been speaking with counterparts in Seoul, who were receptive as long as the provision was indirect. The shells began to flow at the beginning of the year, eventually making South Korea a larger supplier of artillery ammunition for Ukraine than all European nations combined.

The more immediate alternative would entail tapping the U.S. militarys arsenal of 155mm shells that, unlike the South Korean variant, were packed with cluster munitions. The Pentagon had thousands of them, gathering dust for decades. But Secretary of State Antony Blinken balked.

Inside the warhead of those cluster weapons, known officially as Dual-Purpose Improved Conventional Munitions, or DPICMs, were dozens of bomblets that would scatter across a wide area. Some would inevitably fail to explode, posing a long-term danger to civilians, and 120 countries  including most U.S. allies but not Ukraine or Russia  had signed a treaty banning them. Sending them would cost the United States some capital on the wars moral high ground.

In the face of Blinkens strong objections, Sullivan tabled consideration of DPICMs. They would not be referred to Biden for approval, at least for now.

Can Ukraine win?

With the group agreeing that the United States and allies could provide what they believed were the supplies and training Ukraine needed, Sullivan faced the second part of the equation: Could Ukraine do it?

Zelenskyy, on the wars first anniversary in February, had boasted that 2023 would be a year of victory. His intelligence chief had decreed that Ukrainians would soon be vacationing in Crimea, the peninsula that Russia had illegally annexed in 2014. But some in the U.S. government were less than confident.

U.S. intelligence officials, skeptical of the Pentagons enthusiasm, assessed the likelihood of success at no better than 50-50. The estimate frustrated their Defense Department counterparts, especially those at U.S. European Command, who recalled the spies erroneous prediction in the days before the 2022 invasion that Kyiv would fall to the Russians within days.

Some defense officials observed caustically that optimism was not in intelligence officials DNA  they were the Eeyores of government, the former senior official said, and it was always safer to bet on failure.

A Ukrainian soldier assigned to the 93rd Mechanized Brigade checks his weapon in an undated photo shared by Ukraines Defense Ministry on Nov. 27, 2023. (Ukraine Defense Ministry/X)

Part of it was just the fact of the sheer weight of the Russian military, CIA Director William J. Burns later reflected in an interview. For all their incompetence in the first year of the war, they had managed to launch a shambolic partial mobilization to fill a lot of the gaps in the front. In Zaporizhzhia  the key line of the counteroffensive if the land bridge was to be severed  we could see them building really quite formidable fixed defenses, hard to penetrate, really costly, really bloody for the Ukrainians.

Perhaps more than any other senior official, Burns, a former ambassador to Russia, had traveled multiple times to Kyiv over the previous year, sometimes in secret, to meet with his Ukrainian counterparts, as well as with Zelenskyy and his senior military officials. He appreciated the Ukrainians most potent weapon  their will to fight an existential threat.

Your heart is in it, Burns said of his hopes for helping Ukraine succeed. But ... our broader intelligence assessment was that this was going to be a really tough slog.

Two weeks after Sullivan and others briefed the president, a top-secret, updated intelligence report assessed that the challenges of massing troops, ammunition and equipment meant that Ukraine would probably fall well short of its counteroffensive goals.

The West had so far declined to grant Ukraines request for fighter jets and the Army Tactical Missile System, or ATACMS, which could reach targets farther behind Russian lines, and which the Ukrainians felt they needed to strike key Russian command and supply sites.

You are not going to go from an emerging, post-Soviet legacy military to the U.S. Army of 2023 overnight, a senior Western intelligence official said. It is foolish for some to expect that you can give them things and it changes the way they fight.

U.S. military officials did not dispute that it would be a bloody struggle. By early 2023, they knew that as many as 130,000 Ukrainian troops had been injured or killed in the war, including many of the countrys best soldiers. Some Ukrainian commanders were already expressing doubts about the coming campaign, citing the numbers of troops who lacked battlefield experience.

Yet the Pentagon had also worked closely with Ukrainian forces. Officials had watched them fight courageously and had overseen the effort to provide them with large amounts of sophisticated arms. U.S. military officials argued that the intelligence estimates failed to account for the firepower of the newly arriving weaponry, as well as the Ukrainians will to win.

The plan that they executed was entirely feasible with the force that they had, on the timeline that we planned out, a senior U.S. military official said.

Austin knew that additional time for training on new tactics and equipment would be beneficial but that Ukraine didnt have that luxury.

In a perfect world, you get a choice. You keep saying, I want to take six more months to train up and feel comfortable about this,  he said in an interview. My take is that they didnt have a choice. They were in a fight for their lives.

Russia gets ready

By March, Russia was already many months into preparing its defenses, building miles upon miles of barriers, trenches and other obstacles across the front in anticipation of the Ukrainian push.

After stinging defeats in the Kharkiv region and Kherson in the fall of 2022, Russia seemed to pivot. Putin appointed Gen. Sergei Surovikin  known as General Armageddon for his merciless tactics in Syria  to lead Russias fight in Ukraine, focusing on digging in rather than taking more territory.

In the months after the 2022 invasion, Russian trenches were basic  flood-prone, straight-line pits nicknamed corpse lines, according to Ruslan Leviev, an analyst and co-founder of the Conflict Intelligence Team, which has been tracking Russian military activity in Ukraine since 2014.

But Russia adapted as the war wore on, digging drier, zigzagging trenches that better protected soldiers from shelling. As the trenches eventually grew more sophisticated, they opened up into forests to offer better means for defenders to fall back, Leviev said. The Russians built tunnels between positions to counter Ukraines extensive use of drones, he added.

The trenches were part of multilayered defenses that included dense minefields, concrete pyramids known as dragons teeth, and antitank ditches. If minefields were disabled, Russian forces had rocket-borne systems to reseed them.

Unlike Russias offensive efforts early in the war, these defenses followed textbook Soviet standards. This is one case where they have implemented their doctrine, a senior Western intelligence official said.

Konstantin Yefremov, a former officer with Russias 42nd motorized rifle division who was stationed in Zaporizhzhia in 2022, recalled that Russia had the equipment and grunt power necessary to build a solid wall against attack.

Putins army is experiencing shortages of various arms, but can literally swim in mines, Yefremov said in an interview after fleeing to the West. They have millions of them, both antitank and antipersonnel mines.

The poverty, desperation and fear of the tens of thousands of conscripted Russian soldiers made them an ideal workforce. All you need is slave power, he said. And even more so, Russian rank-and-file soldiers know they are [building trenches and other defenses] for themselves, to save their skin.

The top Russian military commander in Ukraine, Gen. Sergei Surovikin, left, and Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, center, attend the meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin during his visit to the joint staff of troops involved in Russias military operation in Ukraine, at an unknown location, Saturday, Dec. 17, 2022. (Gavriil Grigorov/Sputnik, Kremlin pool photo via AP)

In addition, in a tactic used in both World War I and II, Surovikin would deploy blocking units behind the Russian troops to prevent them from retreating, sometimes under pain of death.

Their options were either to die from our units or from their own, said Ukrainian police Col. Oleksandr Netrebko, the commander of a newly formed police brigade fighting near Bakhmut.

Yet, while Russia had far more troops, a deeper military arsenal and what one U.S. official said was just a willingness to endure really dramatic losses, U.S. officials knew it also had serious vulnerabilities.

By early 2023, some 200,000 Russian soldiers had been killed or wounded, U.S. intelligence agencies estimated, including scores of highly trained commandos. Replacement troops who were rushed into Ukraine lacked experience. Turnover of field leaders had hurt command and control. Equipment losses were equally staggering: more than 2,000 tanks, some 4,000 armored fighting vehicles and at least 75 aircraft, according to a Pentagon document leaked on the Discord chat platform in the spring.

The assessment was that the Russian force was insufficient to protect every line of conflict. But unless Ukraine got underway quickly, the Kremlin could make up its deficits inside of a year, or less if it got more outside help from friendly nations such as Iran and North Korea.

It was imperative, U.S. officials argued, for Ukraine to launch.

More troops, more weapons

In late April, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg made an unannounced trip to see Zelenskyy in Kyiv.

Stoltenberg, a former Norwegian prime minister, was in town to discuss preparations for the NATO summit in July, including Kyivs push to join the alliance.

But over a working lunch with a handful of ministers and aides, talk turned to preparation for the counteroffensive  how things were going and what was left to be done.

Stoltenberg  due the next day in Germany for a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, a consortium of roughly 50 countries providing weaponry and other support to Kyiv  asked about efforts to equip and train Ukrainian brigades by the end of April, according to two people familiar with the talks.

Zelenskyy reported that the Ukrainian military expected the brigades to be at 80 or 85 percent by the end of the month, the people said. That seemed at odds with American expectations that Ukraine should already be ready to launch.

The Ukrainian leader also stressed that his troops had to hold the east to keep Russia from shifting forces to block Kyivs southern counteroffensive. To defend the east while also pushing south, he said, Ukraine needed more brigades, the two people recalled.

Ukrainian officials also continued to make the case that an expanded arsenal was central to their ability to succeed. It wasnt until May, on the eve of the fight, that Britain announced it would provide longer-range Storm Shadow missiles. But another core refrain from Ukraine was that they were being asked to fight in a way no NATO nation would ever contemplate  without effective power in the air.

As one former senior Ukrainian official pointed out, his countrys aging MiG-29 fighter jets could detect targets within a 40-mile radius and fire at a range of 20 miles. Russias Su-35s, meanwhile, could identify targets more than 90 miles away and shoot them down as far away as 75 miles.

Imagine a MiG and a Su-35 in the sky. We dont see them while they see us. We cant reach them while they can reach us, the official said. Thats why we fought so hard for F-16s.

American officials pointed out that even a few of the $60 million aircraft would eat up funds that could go much further in buying vehicles, air defenses or ammunition. Moreover, they said, the jets wouldnt provide the air superiority the Ukrainians craved.

If you could train a bunch of F-16 pilots in three months, they would have got shot down on day one, because the Russian air defenses in Ukraine are very robust and very capable, a senior defense official said.

Biden finally yielded in May and granted the required permission for European nations to donate their U.S.-made F-16s to Ukraine. But pilot training and delivery of the jets would take a year or more, far too long to make a difference in the coming fight.

A Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany-based F-16 jet from the 480th Fighter Squadron takes off from the base in August 2018. (Michael Abrams/Stars and Stripes)

Kyiv hesitates

By May, concern was growing within the Biden administration and among allied backers. According to the planning, Ukraine should have already launched its operations. As far as the U.S. military was concerned, the window of opportunity was shrinking fast. Intelligence over the winter had shown that Russian defenses were relatively weak and largely unmanned, and that morale was low among Russian troops after their losses in Kharkiv and Kherson. U.S. intelligence assessed that senior Russian officers felt the prospects were bleak.

But that assessment was changing quickly. The goal had been to strike before Moscow was ready, and the U.S. military had been trying since mid-April to get the Ukrainians moving. We were given dates. We were given many dates, a senior U.S. government official said. We had April this, May that, you know, June. It just kept getting delayed.

Meanwhile, enemy defenses were thickening. U.S. military officials were dismayed to see Russian forces use those weeks in April and May to seed significant amounts of additional mines, a development the officials believed ended up making Ukrainian troops advance substantially harder.

Washington was also getting worried that the Ukrainians were burning up too many artillery shells, primarily around Bakhmut, that were needed for the counteroffensive.

As May ground on, it seemed to the Americans that Kyiv, gung-ho during the war games and the training, had abruptly slowed down  that there was some type of switch in psychology where they got to the brink and then all of a sudden they thought, Well, lets triple-check, make sure were comfortable,  said one administration official who was part of the planning. But they were telling us for almost a month ... Were about to go. Were about to go. 

Some senior American officials believed there wasnt conclusive proof that the delay had altered Ukraines chances for success. Others saw clear indications that the Kremlin had successfully exploited the interim along what it believed would be Kyivs lines of assault.

In Ukraine, a different kind of frustration was building. When we had a calculated timeline, yes, the plan was to start the operation in May, said a former senior Ukrainian official who was deeply involved in the effort. However, many things happened.

Promised equipment was delivered late or arrived unfit for combat, the Ukrainians said. A lot of weapons that are coming in now, they were relevant last year, the senior Ukrainian military official said, not for the high-tech battles ahead. Crucially, he said, they had received only 15 percent of items  like the Mine Clearing Line Charge launchers (MCLCs)  needed to execute their plan to remotely cut passages through the minefields.

And yet, the senior Ukrainian military official recalled, the Americans were nagging about a delayed start and still complaining about how many troops Ukraine was devoting to Bakhmut.

U.S. officials vehemently denied that the Ukrainians did not get all the weaponry they were promised. Ukraines wish list may have been far bigger, the Americans acknowledged, but by the time the offensive began, they had received nearly two dozen MCLCs, more than 40 mine rollers and excavators, 1,000 Bangalore torpedoes, and more than 80,000 smoke grenades. Zaluzhny had requested 1,000 armored vehicles; the Pentagon ultimately delivered 1,500.

They got everything they were promised, on time, one senior U.S. official said. In some cases, the officials said, Ukraine failed to deploy equipment critical to the offensive, holding it in reserve or allocating it to units that werent part of the assault.

Then there was the weather. The melting snow and heavy rains that turn parts of Ukraine into a soup of heavy mud each spring had come late and lasted longer than usual.

In the middle of 2022, when the thinking about a counteroffensive began, no one knew the weather forecast, the former senior Ukrainian official said.

That meant it was unclear when the flat plains and rich black soil of southeastern Ukraine, which could act as a glue grabbing hold of boots and tires, would dry out for summer. The Ukrainians understood the uncertainty because they, unlike the Americans, lived there.

As the preparations accelerated, Ukrainian officials concerns grew more acute, erupting at a meeting at Ramstein Air Base in Germany in April when Zaluzhnys deputy, Mykhailo Zabrodskyi, made an emotional appeal for help.

Were sorry, but some of the vehicles we received are unfit for combat, Zabrodskyi told Austin and his aides, according to a former senior Ukrainian official. He said the Bradleys and Leopards had broken or missing tracks. German Marder fighting vehicles lacked radio sets; they were nothing more than iron boxes with tracks  useless if they couldnt communicate with their units, he said. Ukrainian officials said the units for the counteroffensive lacked sufficient de-mining and evacuation vehicles.

Austin looked at Gen. Christopher Cavoli, the top U.S. commander for Europe, and Lt. Gen. Antonio Aguto, head of the Security Assistance Group-Ukraine, both sitting next to him. They said theyd check.

The Pentagon concluded that Ukrainian forces were failing to properly handle and maintain all the equipment after it was received. Austin directed Aguto to work more intensively with his Ukrainian counterparts on maintenance.

Even if you deliver 1,300 vehicles that are working fine, theres going to be some that break between the time that you get them on the ground there and the time they enter combat, a senior defense official said.

By June 1, the top echelons at U.S. European Command and the Pentagon were frustrated and felt like they were getting few answers. Maybe the Ukrainians were daunted by the potential casualties? Perhaps there were political disagreements within the Ukrainian leadership, or problems along the chain of command?

The counteroffensive finally lurched into motion in early June. Some Ukrainian units quickly notched small gains, recapturing Zaporizhzhia-region villages south of Velyka Novosilka, 80 miles from the Azov coast. But elsewhere, not even Western arms and training could fully shield Ukrainian forces from the punishing Russian firepower.

When troops from the 37th Reconnaissance Brigade attempted an advance, they, like units elsewhere, immediately felt the force of Russias tactics. From the first minutes of their assault, they were overwhelmed by mortar fire that pierced their French AMX-10 RC armored vehicles. Their own artillery fire didnt materialize as expected. Soldiers crawled out of burning vehicles. In one unit, 30 of 50 soldiers were captured, wounded or killed. Ukraines equipment losses in the initial days included 20 Bradley Fighting Vehicles and six German-made Leopard tanks.

Those early encounters landed like a thunderbolt among the officers in Zaluzhnys command center, searing a question in their minds: Was the strategy doomed?

This is part one of a two-part series. Read part two here.
Haitian police display some of the weapons they say they took from men who were involved in the assassination of President Jovenel Moise. (Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald/TNS)

(Tribune News Service)  A Haitian-American man from South Florida Tuesday became the first U.S. citizen to plead guilty to conspiring to kill Haitis president, admitting that he attended key meetings to carry out the assassination more than two years ago.

In doing so, Joseph Vincent also became the fourth of 11 defendants charged in the Miami federal case to accept responsibility for his supporting role in the murder plot spanning South Florida, Haiti and Colombia.

Vincent, 58, admitted that he met with a group of co-conspirators in Haiti on the eve of the assassination of President Jovenel Moise on July 7, 2021, in a factual statement filed with his plea agreement. He also wore a U.S. State Department pin to make himself look official to his Haitian counterparts, the statement says. He also participated in a plan to stir up protests against Haitis leader and use them as a cover to remove Moise by force using weapons.

And lastly, the statement says, he joined other co-conspirators in a vehicle that drove to the presidents home outside Port-au-Prince when a group of Colombian commandos killed him during the nighttime ambush.

U.S. District Judge Jose Martinez asked Vincent if all this information was true at Tuesdays hearing.

Yes, its true, your honor, Vincent told the judge.

Faces up to life in prison

Vincent pleaded guilty to conspiring to provide material support in the assassination, providing that support, and conspiring to kill or kidnap a person outside the United States. He faces up to life in prison at his sentencing hearing before Judge Martinez on Feb. 9, 2024.

At the hearing, federal prosecutor Frank Russo highlighted his role in the murder conspiracy: Vincent provided advice to his co-conspirators about the Haitian political landscape, attended meetings with important Haitian political and community leaders, and frequently wore a U.S. State Department pin, which had the effect of leading others to believe that he was employed by the U.S. State Department.

Vincent, a former informant with the Drug Enforcement Administration, is expected to be a key cooperating witness against other co-conspirators, including fellow Haitian American James Solages. Solages is accused of collaborating with CTU Security, a Doral-based security company owned and operated by Antonio Intriago, a defendant in the case who met with Solages in South Florida and in Haiti before Moises assassination.

Solages also drove the vehicle with top Colombian commandos, Vincent and others to the presidents home for the deadly attack, court records show. And Solages yelled it was a DEA operation as the assault was unfolding that night, a claim that authorities have denied.

Solages has pleaded not guilty to the murder conspiracy charges.

Vincent is also expected to provide inside information on Christian Sanon, a Haitian physician and pastor who was initially proposed as the successor to Moise before the plotters abandoned him in favor of a member of the Haitian Supreme Court. Sanon has also pleaded not guilty, but to conspiracy charges accusing him of smuggling ballistic vests to the Colombian commandos in Haiti and to carry out a military expedition against a foreign country.

The plea agreement was signed by Vincent, his defense attorney, Kenneth Swartz, and federal prosecutors Andrea Goldbarg, Monica Castro and Russo.

In addition to Vincent, three other defendants have admitted to their supporting roles in the Miami federal case.

Others connected to the assassination

In October, former Haiti Sen. Joseph Joel John, who had been detained in Jamaica before being brought to Miami last year, pleaded guilty to the same charges in the killing of Haitis leader. He faces up to life in prison at his sentencing later this month, though hes cooperating with authorities in the hope of receiving less severe punishment.

John, 52, acknowledged to FBI agents that he had met with some co-conspirators just before they embarked on the mission to kill President Moise at his suburban home, according to court records. John admitted that he helped obtain rental vehicles, made introductions to Haitian gang members and tried to get firearms for the co-conspirators operation targeting the president, according to his statement filed with his plea agreement.

John attended meetings in South Florida and Haiti with the main suspects and tried to acquire weapons and ammunition for them, according to the statement and other court records. Hes believed to have been a link between the various groups. On the night of the killing, he was in communication with several suspects.

Johns goal was to become the prime minister under Moises successor following the leaders removal from office, according to court records.

In addition, retired Colombian army officer German Alejandro Rivera Garcia, aka Colonel Mike, 45, admitted that he met with several co-conspirators from Haiti and South Florida before leading a group of former Colombian soldiers to the Haitian presidents home to kill him. In October, Rivera was sentenced to life in prison, but he is hoping to get his sentence reduced with cooperation.

Also, Haitian businessman Rodolphe Jaar, 51, admitted to providing weapons, lodging and money in the conspiracy to assassinate Haitis president. A dual Haitian and Chilean citizen, Jaar was sentenced in June to life in prison but is hoping to get his prison term decreased with cooperation. He had previously been convicted of drug trafficking in the United States.

Another suspect recently arrested in Haiti  if extradited  may become the 12th defendant in the Miami federal case. In October, Joseph Felix Badio, a former government functionary who had been fired from his anti-corruption job, was apprehended by Haitian police at a grocery store in Petionville.

Badio is among several high-profile suspects who remained in hiding more than two years after the killing. There has long been widespread speculation that he was either the key person behind the scenes or a potential mastermind.

2023 Miami Herald.

Visit miamiherald.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., attends a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington on Tuesday, July 11, 2023. (Carlos Bongioanni/Stars and Stripes)

WASHINGTON  Sen. Tommy Tuberville announced Tuesday that he will lift the bulk of his monthslong hold on military nominees, clearing the way for more than 400 promotions.

Tuberville said he will no longer stand in the way of promoting military officers at the three-star level and below but will still block about a dozen four-star generals and admirals in continuation of his protest against the Pentagons abortion access policy.

Im not going to hold the promotions of these people any longer, Tuberville, R-Ala., told reporters. We fought hard. We did the right thing for the unborn and for our military, fighting back against executive overreach and an abortion policy.

The decision is set to end a 10-month standoff between Tuberville and the Defense Department, which has refused to rescind a policy that provides service members with time off and travel reimbursement for reproductive health care.

Tuberville had argued the policy violates federal law and insisted he would not end his block unless the Defense Department caved to his demands.

More than 40% of female service members stationed in the United States have no access, or severely restricted access, to abortion services following a Supreme Court ruling last year that eliminated the constitutional right to an abortion, according to the Rand Corp. think tank.

The unusual length of Tubervilles blockade and its widening impact prompted some fellow Republicans in recent months to press the senator to back down. Pentagon officials said Tubervilles actions harmed national security and affected readiness amid war in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Tuberville said Tuesday that his decision to allow the confirmation of hundreds of lower-level nominees was inspired by Sens. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, and Joni Ernst, R-Iowa. Both had spent hours on the Senate floor attempting to approve nominees.

Senate Democrats, meanwhile, started moving forward with a resolution that would temporarily give the upper chamber power to bypass Tubervilles blockade.

Tubervilles hold meant the Senate could not confirm blocks of nominees via voice vote, as it normally does, and would have to vote on each promotion one by one. The process of holding individual roll call votes would have eaten up at least 700 hours of floor time, according to the Congressional Research Service.

The Senate was forced to individually confirm some of the militarys highest-ranking officers, including five members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, earlier this year due to Tubervilles blockade. A second-in-command for the Marine Corps was hurriedly confirmed last month after the services commandant suffered a cardiac arrest.

Tuberville said he did not regret his blockade and described the outcome of his protest on Tuesday as a draw.

They didnt get what they wanted, he said. We didnt get what I wanted.

Tuberville said he will continue to hold the promotion of officers slated to become four-star generals. Those positions include the commanders of Northern Command and Cyber Command, the vice chiefs of staff of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Space Force, and commanders of the U.S. Pacific Fleet and the Pacific Air Forces.

Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I., the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said Tubervilles hold had ensnared 445 officers. He called the blockade an affront to the military and the Senate.

No senator should ever attempt to advance their own partisan agenda on the backs of our troops like this again, he said.

Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the top Pentagon spokesman, said Tuesday that it will take time to unravel the organizational problems created by Tubervilles hold and put everyone where they need to be. Some officers were forced to work two jobs as vacancies were not filled.

Its not just flicking a switch and suddenly everyone moves into these new positions, Ryder said. You have to consider things like when people can move, where the people moving out of positions are going and so all that has to be carefully orchestrated.

Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., a Navy combat veteran, summed up his reaction to Tubervilles capitulation in just three words: About damn time.
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday dismissed incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khans plea seeking withdrawal of a petition challenging his disqualification in the Toshakhana case.

The former prime minister had filed an appeal against the electoral body's verdict on October 28, 2022, and later sought withdrawal on January 18, 2023.

Khan sought withdrawal of the appeal at the IHC as the matter was pending in the Lahore High Court.

IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq announced the courts decision which was reserved on September 13 after hearing arguments of all the parties.

On October 21, 2022, the electoral watchdog, in a consensus verdict, had disqualified the former prime minister under Article 63(1)(p) and ruled that the PTI founder was no more a member of the National Assembly. He was disqualified for making false statements and incorrect declaration.

The ECP had stated that Imran submitted a false affidavit and was found involved in corrupt practices under Article 63(1)(p). The decision was taken unanimously by the electoral authoritys five-member bench.

The deposed prime minister challenged his disqualification in the IHC, praying to the court to set aside the judgment as what he said the ECP had no jurisdiction over the matter.

In the meantime, a separate petition was filed in the Lahore High Court (LHC) against Imrans disqualification. The petition challenged the ECPs relevant section under which Imran was disqualified.

Initially, the petitioner did not apprise the IHC about his second plea in the LHC over the same matter. Later, the PTI founder requested the IHC to allow him to withdraw his plea as he reportedly wanted the LHC to proceed with the case.

During proceedings, IHC Chief Justice Aamir Farooq expressed his annoyance over concealing the matter about the second petition in the LHC and remarked: In principle, the case should proceed in the court where the appeal was filed first.

Imrans counsel argued that a larger bench of the LHC was hearing the case.

After hearing the arguments from all sides, the IHC reserved its verdict on September 13, 2023. The court will announce its reserved judgment on Wednesday (today).

In August 2022, National Assembly then-speaker Raja Pervaiz Ashraf sent a reference to the ECP under Articles 62A, 63A, and 223, seeking former prime minister Imran Khans disqualification in the light of the Toshakhana scam.

The disqualification reference was filed by Ali Gohar Khan, PML-Ns Mohsin Nawaz Ranjha, and five others.

The 28-page reference identified 52 gift items of Toshakhana received by the former prime minister Imran Khan, violating the law and rules, taken away at nominal prices and most of the gifts were sold in the market, including some precious watches.

The assessed value of the gifts has been put at Rs142,042,100. The gifts were received between August 2018 and December 2021.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, December 6. The World Bank Country Manager for Kyrgyzstan, Naveed Hassan Naqvi said the bank is interested in attracting potential investors for the development of Kyrgyzstan's energy sector, Trend reports.

This was highlighted during his meeting with Akylbek Japarov, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan and Head of the Presidential Administration.

He shared the WB's plans for executing projects related to drinking water supply, irrigation in rural areas, and outlined anticipated activities for 2024.

Japarov, in turn, acknowledged the positive changes in the country's economy and underscored the crucial role of the WB in executing significant projects and launching programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for the people of Kyrgyzstan, ensuring sustainable development for the country.

As of the end of November, the WBs program in Kyrgyzstan encompassed 22 projects aimed at supporting the modernization and development of diverse sectors, with a total commitment of $1.05 billion.
On November 21, a lone male entered a service station on Clonkeen Road at about 11.15pm. He threatened staff at knife point before leaving empty handed.

A man is due in court in connection with a string of robberies in south east Dublin last month.

On November 21, a lone male entered a service station on Clonkeen Road at about 11.15pm. He threatened staff at knife point before leaving empty handed.

Shortly after, another person entered a pharmacy on Foxrock Avenue and threatened staff with a knife before leaving with a sum of cash. No one was physically harmed.

Following enquiries, an operation was conducted in the Dublin area by detectives from Cabinteely and a man in his 20s was arrested yesterday.

He was detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984, at a garda station in the Dublin Region and has now been charged.

He is due to appear before Dun Laoghaire District Court this morning, Wednesday, December 6, at 10.30am.

Investigations are ongoing.
Paul Boyle was also caught with an "extremely explicit" child abuse video

A Scottish man who was caught by an off-duty garda taking "up-skirt" pictures on the Luas and was later found with hundreds of thousands of similar images along with an "extremely explicit" child abuse video has appealed against his five-and-a-half year prison sentence.

Around 20,000 images of women and girls' legs, groins and buttocks, including "up-skirt" photos of schoolgirls, were found on Paul Boyle's mobile phone when an off-duty garda spotted him acting suspiciously on the Luas in December 2019.

A subsequent Garda search of Boyle's home at Sandyford View, Blackglen Road, Dublin 18, found hundreds of thousands of similar images.

At the Court of Appeal yesterday, Professor Tom OMalley SC, for Boyle, said the sentencing judge erred in that he "did not identify a suitable headline sentence, followed by an appropriate reduction in respect of mitigation".

Prof O'Malley said his client was appealing on the basis that the sentence imposed on the child abuse material count was wholly disproportionate, given that the charge related to a single video only.

Boyles lawyers also submitted that the harassment sentence was excessive and that it failed to reflect relevant case law.

The appellants lawyers further submitted that the use of consecutive sentences was also "excessive", that a psychological report was not given appropriate consideration and that the overall sentence was too high, offending the principles of totality.

It was also submitted that there had been "no extortion, blackmail or threats" involved in the offending and that the offences were not aimed at causing distress to the victims.

In fact, there was no contact with the victims and those who learned of it did so only from the investigation," Boyles lawyers submitted.

Prof O'Malley further submitted that the trial judge had acknowledged Boyles genuine remorse and his client's plea of guilty but did not explain how the sentence had been structured regarding mitigation from the headline sentence.

Kate Egan BL, for the State, said not all persons in the 278K photos were identified but this "does not mean they are irrelevant".

"The trial court placed a weight on the overall amount of images," said Ms Egan, who added that Boyle was "taking surreptitious photos of women's groins, thighs and buttocks in public settings".

Prof O'Malley said that a psychiatrist's report said that his client had a disorder regarding voyeurism and described the three year sentence, albeit with two-and-a-half years for possessing the child pornography video, as "disproportionate in the extreme".

Appeal court judge Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy said Boyle was given a reduced sentence despite "watching the grossest sexual offences" concerning the child in the video, which was known to international law enforcement.

Prof O'Malley said the suspended two-and-a-half years were imposed in the interests of rehabilitation but asked what reduction, if any, his client received separately in mitigation.

Ms Egan said a total of 21 victims, including the young girl in the video and two schoolgirls on the Luas, had been identified by gardai.

"The question is whether an error of law of such significance is identified that the court is bound to interfere," said Ms Egan.

"None of the penalties imposed are obviously beyond the range available [to the sentencing judge]. Some could have been more or less lenient. The child pornography charge was only six months imprisonment. On one view, it was lenient as it was serious and heinous material," said counsel.

Ms Egan said Boyle committed a "very serious offence and received a significant suspension", which showed that the "very experienced" trial judge took account of the totality principle in sentencing. Counsel said the punishment was not outside the range of sentences available to the court below.

Mr Justice Birmingham said the court would adjourn the matter in the hope of delivering judgement on Thursday.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that on December 16, 2019, the off-duty Garda noticed that a passenger kept moving throughout the carriage and was holding a mobile phone below waist level.

At the sentencing hearing, Detective Garda Colm Grogan told Eoin Lawlor, BL, prosecuting, that the Garda could see from the reflection in the Luas window that the man was taking photographs of a woman's buttock.

Det Gda Grogan followed the man off the Luas, identified himself, and confronted Boyle. The garda then alerted an on-duty colleague who seized Boyle's phone before he was brought to Dundrum Garda Station.

Boyle (46) was questioned but initially made no admissions to gardai.

A search warrant was obtained for Boyles home and several flash drive devices were found and seized. Around 275,800 images of the groins and buttocks of women, young ladies and girls were found. The images were taken between June 2018 and January 2020.

The court heard that a disturbing video involving a child was also found on a flash drive at Boyle's home.

The investigating Garda told the court that the 2002 video was extremely explicit and disturbing and it was the first time it had come to the attention of gardai in Ireland.

Other images seized by gardai contained images of Boyle's co-workers. The court heard that when contacted, the women were very distressed, horrified and violated.

In March 2022, Boyle pleaded guilty to harassment at a location in Dublin city between November and December 2019. He also admitted possession of a child pornography video at his home on 28 January, 2020.

In July 2022, Judge Martin Nolan sentenced Boyle to five years' imprisonment for the harassment. On the count of possession of child pornography, he imposed a three-year term, to run consecutive to the harassment sentence.

However, Judge Nolan suspended the final two and a half years of the child pornography sentence and backdated it to when Boyle went into custody in March 2021. Judge Nolan ordered that Boyle can never make any form of contact with any of the victims who he took images of and also imposed two years of post-release supervision.
Zoltan Nemeth is a well-known figure in Hungarian aviation circles and has has been nicknamed Top Gun after the Tom Cruise film.

The huge haul of heroin seized in the raid

A pilot charged after heroin worth 8 million was seized from a plane in Dublin is a national war hero in Hungary.

Zoltan Nemeth (62), from Sukosd in Hungary, was one of two men brought before the courts this week following the discovery of the haul of heroin last week.

Mr Nemeth is accused of unlawful possession of heroin and possessing it with intent to supply at Weston Airport, Co. Dublin, on 1 December.

His co-accused, Aradi Ignac (49) from Kecskemet, Hungary, was also charged with the same offences.

But according to local media, Mr Nemeth is a well-known figure in Hungarian aviation circles and has regularly appeared on TV and in the newspapers where he has been nickanmed Top Gun after the Tom Cruise film.

Hungarian news website, Bikk, revealed how Mr Nemeth is regarded as a war hero in his home country.

He was at the centre of a famous incident in 1994 when he was a pilot in the Hungarian Air Force.

During the South Slavic War, he was responsible for forcing a Serbian fighter out of Hungarian airspace with his MIG-21 jet.

According to Bikk, Serbian forces were at the time provoking the Hungarians to see if they could be involved in the conflict.

After spotting the Serbian jet, Mr Nemeth flew over the aircraft and escorted it out of Hungarian airspace. He was given an award for his bravery and the incident made headlines in Hungary.

In an interview, Mr Nemeth described flying next to the Serbian plane.

"I approached him crosswise from the right and below at 1,500 meters.

"That's when I saw it with the naked eye, it was a dark spot in the sky. I knew I had to get behind him, then he couldn't do anything.

"I flew under it, then immediately took the plane into a 270-degree climbing turn. Seconds later I was already behind him and approaching him.

This week, a court heard Mr Nemeth denied any knowledge of the heroin found on the airplane at Weston Airport.

Detective Garda Mark O'Neill said that Mr Nemeth's reply to the charge was, "We didn't speak about drugs; he told me it was special metal or material for making microchips. I never used drugs; I hate drugs."

Barrister Sarah Connolly said Mr Nemeth was reserving his position and not making a bail application at this point.

His solicitor, Matthew Byrne, said there was no application for bail at this stage.

Detective Garda Marguerite Reilly told Judge Kelly that when she charged Mr Ignac he replied: "I took it because I was forced to and not because I wanted to, and for my family's safety".

The pair, who listened to the proceedings with the aid of an interpreter, were remanded in custody and will appear via video link on Friday at Cloverhill District Court. Judge Kelly told them to give gardai 24 hours' notice if they intend to move bail applications.

Legal aid was granted. Mr Byrne said his client had been working but had no fixed address in Ireland and was now unemployed.

Counsel said her client, Mr Nemeth, a married father of one, was retired and no longer entitled to his Hungarian pension in Ireland.

Statements of their means were also handed into court, and there was no Garda objection to legal aid. Directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions need to be obtained.
Even by Northern Ireland standards Marie OHaras story stands out

The daughter of an innocent Catholic taxi driver murdered by Red Hand Commando boss Winkie Rea said yesterday the fight for justice will continue.

Maria OHara, whose father John was gunned down in 1991, posted hours after veteran loyalist Rea died: Our poor daddy. We never gave up trying to get you the justice you truly deserved.

And Marias mother Marie  twice widowed by the UVF  previously said she was determined to look her husbands killer in the eye, but she never got the chance.

Rea (72) had been due to stand trial for the murder of Maries husband John OHara, who had been working as a taxi driver on the night he was cruelly gunned down by an Ulster Volunteer Force hit squad.

The 75-year-old great grandmother was too upset to be interviewed about the case. Her daughter Maria said: Shes just not up to it. We are going to issue a statement through our solicitor.

But in a previous interview with this reporter, Marie spoke about the loyalist terror chief accused of murdering her husband. Im determined to go to court and to look him in the eye, she said.

Six years ago, Winston Rea appeared in court accused of murdering John Devine (37) in July 1989 and John OHara (41) in April 1991.

John Devine

Rea also faced a raft of 19 loyalist terror charges relating to an interview he gave to researchers as part of the Boston College tapes.

A former leader of the feared Red Hand Commando terror gang, Rea had talked himself into a murder charge when he boasted of his role in killing Mr OHara.

Even by Northern Ireland standards Marie OHaras story stands out. Born Marie Lyttle in Foundry Street, Ballymacarret, the tiny Catholic enclave in east Belfast, she met Hugh Duffy when she was 16.

The couple married when Marie was 19 and the set up home in Arran Street, Short Strand. Their first child Tracy was born the following year and a second child, Cathy, two years later.

Maries nightmare began on June 20 1975 when Hugh was shot and wounded while walking home from work. He died in hospital two days later aged 30, without regaining consciousness.

Two UVF gunmen were waiting for him, said Marie. They called out his name and when he looked, they shot him. He was totally innocent and he was killed simply because he was a Catholic.

Hughs killers were teenage cousins and one of them was a neighbour of Maries mother.

After the funeral, Marie, aged 26, did her best to pick up the pieces of her shattered life. I had no other choice. I had two daughters and I had to get on with it, said Marie.

Marie OHara with husband John

Four years later, Marie met John OHara, a local man who worked as a heating engineer. They married the following year and began a new life in a new home. In time the couple had three daughters together.

In 1991, when the building industry in England collapsed, he came back to Belfast where he got a job as a taxi driver. On the evening of April 17, he began his first shift with a taxi firm based in the Catholic Market area near Belfast city centre.

At 10.30pm, John drove to collect a fare in south Belfast. As he pulled up at the pick-up point on Dunluce Avenue, off the Lisburn Road, four armed and masked men shot as he sat behind the wheel.

The gunmen  who laughed as they ran off  headed in the direction of the loyalist Village area. It is believed Rea ordered the OHara killing to beat a loyalist ceasefire deadline due to commence at midnight.

Although the OHara killing was claimed by the UDA, it later emerged it was the work of the Ulster Volunteer Force  the same organisation that murdered Maries first husband 16 years earlier.

I was consumed by grief and despair. I couldnt believe this had happened to me again, said Marie.

But the murder of Maries second husband didnt mean the end of her suffering. Vulnerable and struggling to remain focused, Marie continued to endure a campaign of sectarian harassment. She was subjected to repeated abusive phone calls.

I just couldnt bring myself to repeat what was said to me. It was disgusting, she said.
Mark Madden (33) from Oliver Bond flats, but living in Birmingham for nine years, appeared at Dublin District Court

A father of two has been charged with attacking four men during an incident of large scale violence in Dublin city-centre.

A man in his 20s, who was among a group of Slovakians on a night out, remains in a serious condition after sustaining a head injury at Ushers Quay on Sunday night.

Mark Madden (33) from Oliver Bond flats, Dublin 8, but living in Birmingham, England, for nine years, appeared at Dublin District Court on Wednesday.

He was charged with assault causing harm to four other men during the incident, including one who allegedly suffered a fractured eye socket.

He also has an additional charge for unlawful possession of 360 alprazolam tablets worth 720 and possessing them with intent to supply, contrary to the Misuse of Drugs Act, in the south inner city on Monday.

He has yet to enter a plea; bail was set at 8,000.

The painter-decorator appeared before Judge Treasa Kelly.

Garda Richie Pender cited the seriousness of the incident and voiced concerns that the accused would flee.

Objecting to bail, Garda Pender said, This was an incident of large-scale violence, but he accepted the accused did not cause the severe head injury to the man taken to Beaumont Hospital.

However, it was alleged he attacked four other men from his group, and one of them had a broken eye socket.

During exchanges with defence solicitor Peter Connolly, he agreed the accused had been in a local pub with a group of Irish people, and the Slovakian group was also there.

Mr Connolly said both groups seemed to have been drinking in that pub for several hours, and there may have been verbals communicated.

The solicitor said that it led to a melee outside, and there was no allegation his client inflicted the injury on the hospitalised man.

No, the injured party received one punch from an individual, not the accused, Garda Pender replied.

He also said that it was claimed Mr Madden punched four other males, resulting in significant injuries.

The court heard Mr Madden moved to Birmingham in 2014 and lived with his long-term partner and their child in a council house there.

Arguing for bail, Mr Connolly said his client regularly returns to see his family, and his mother still lives in Dublin.

He asked the judge to note the case was part of an ongoing investigation and that the trial may not be heard for about two years. His client wished to be able to live in the UK but remain in phone contact and return to Ireland once a month when he would sign on at a Garda station.

The court heard he had family members who could stand his bail, and an address in Dublin was available to him.

Judge Kelly held that the garda had grounds to object, but the court could impose conditions.

She remanded Mr Madden in custody with consent to bail in his bond of 5,000, of which 2,000 must be lodged. Furthermore, a 3,000 independent surety has to be approved.

On taking up bail, he must stay out of parts of Dublin, remain in regular contact with gardai, and reside at the address he had furnished to gardai.

He will appear at Cloverhill District Court on Friday. Legal aid was granted.
Trevor Doyle wore a balaclava during a raid on ODonovans off-licence on January 11, detectives tracked his every step for the following hour and 20 minutes  capturing clear images of his face after he dumped the balaclava and knife.

Trevor Doyle was seen on various cameras around Cork before and after his robbery

Trevor Doyle was seen on various cameras around Cork before and after his robbery

Trevor Doyle was seen on various cameras around Cork before and after his robbery

This is the damning CCTV footage that forced a knife-wielding robber to hand himself into gardai.

Trevor Doyle was seen on various cameras around Cork before and after his robbery

This is the damning CCTV footage that forced a knife-wielding robber to hand himself into gardai.

Although 30-year-old Corkman Trevor Doyle wore a balaclava during a raid on ODonovans off-licence in Cork city on January 11, detectives tracked his every step for the following hour and 20 minutes  capturing clear images of his face after he dumped the balaclava and knife.

The footage was subsequently broadcast on RTEs Crimecall on February 27, leading to a number of calls from members of the public to gardai nominating Doyle as a suspect.

This is the damning CCTV footage that forced a knife-wielding robber to hand himself into gardai.

And, having watched the programme himself and being left in no doubt but that the hammer was about to come down on him, Doyle himself rang gardai confessing to the robbery.

The incredible job officers did in collating the footage was apparent in the programme broadcast in February.

In it, Doyle was first captured wearing a black jacket standing on Thomas Davis Street just before 5.20pm.

Doyle was recorded loitering on the street for several minutes before he pulled the balaclava down over his face and walking into ODonovans off-licence.

Trevor Doyle was seen on various cameras around Cork before and after his robbery

Armed with a knife, he was recorded warning the single staff member in the store: Open it or Ill use it, showing the knife as he said this.

Doyle was then seen leaving the shop and walking through an underpass towards the car-park of Blackpool shopping centre.

After he walked through the underpass, he was seen on CCTV discarding the balaclava where it was later recovered by gardai.

A few minutes later, he came to an alleyway leading to Blackpool retail park where he removed his jacket and put it in a bin.

Gardai observed, on the CCTV, that Doyle was then wearing a distinctive black and white hoodie with grey sleeves.

At 5.55pm, Doyle was recorded boarding the 203 bus from Brothers Delaney Road towards the city centre.

After a short journey, he got off the bus at Patrick Street and entered another shop where the clearest images of his face were recorded.

He then returned to the bus stop on Patrick Street where he stayed for several minutes.

Trevor Doyle was seen on various cameras around Cork before and after his robbery

He then walked north over the River Lee on to Bridge Street and along McCurtain Street.

Doyle was last recorded on CCTV on Mary Adams Bridge near Cork Bus station at approximately 6.40pm.

In evidence before Cork Circuit Court earlier this week, Detective Sergeant Kieran OSullivan said it was because of a difficulty identifying the raider that a decision was made to broadcast CCTV of the crime.

He was not known so the CCTV was run on Crimecall on February 27 this year, he said.

Trevor Doyle was seen on various cameras around Cork before and after his robbery

The court heard Doyle of Red Forge Road, Blackpool, Cork, had 24 previous convictions, including four circuit court convictions.

One of them was for a robbery dating back to November 2015.

Judge McCourt imposed a sentence of two years and six months with the last six months suspended.
The woman, who is in her 30s, was arrested following searches at various locations in the Dublin area

A woman has been arrested as part of a cross-border investigation into the cocaine seizure on the MV Matthew cargo ship in September.

The woman, who is in her 30s, was arrested following searches at various locations in the Dublin area.

Gardai said this evening that the arrest was carried out by members attached to the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB) and Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

Working as part of a Joint Agency Task Force officers conducted simultaneous and coordinated search operations in both jurisdictions today.

The operations form part of ongoing investigations into the seizure of cocaine from a cargo ship off the coast of County Cork on Tuesday, 26th September 2023, gardai said in a statement.

A female in her 30s was arrested and is currently detained under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007 at a Garda Station in the Dublin Region. She can be held for up to seven days.

Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Irelands Organised Crime Branch conducted a number of their own searches.

Investigations are ongoing.

The PSNI added: Detectives from the Police Services Organised Crime Branch, who carried out searches in Newry, seized a number of items, including a vehicle and mobile phones. All have been removed for further examination.

The Joint Agency Task force is led by senior officers from the PSNI, An Garda Siochana, and other key partner agencies, including Revenue Services on both sides of the border and the UKs National Crime Agency.

The State recently moved to officially impound the MV Matthew, the cargo ship that was discovered to be carrying more than two tonnes of cocaine off the Cork coast in September.

The 157m seizure ranks as the largest drug interdiction in Irish history.

The bulk carrier ship is to be surrendered to the State under the 2015 Customs Act, which states that any vessel that transports illegal goods into the country is liable to forfeiture.

The Irish Times reports that the MV Matthew will likely be auctioned off, with the State taking in the proceeds, although it could also be destroyed entirely.

Anyone who wished to contest the forfeiture had 30 days to do so, according to a notice published in Iris Oifigiuil, the official Irish State gazette, on October 20. The vessel is now duly condemned as forfeited, as of yesterday.

The 190m (620ft) ship, which was built in 2001 and is believed to be worth about 9.5 million and remains impounded as the garda investigation continues.

The MV Matthew, previously known as the MV Honmon, was officially seized by customs officers on October 19, three weeks after it was intercepted in a dramatic joint operation involving gardai, the Defence Forces and Revenue.

The Panamanian-registered ship was attempting to leave Irish waters when it was intercepted.

The LE William Butler Yeats, a Naval Service vessel, fired warning shots to stop the ship, and it was eventually boarded by an armed party from the elite Army Ranger Wing before an arrest was made.

A record 2,253kg of cocaine worth 157 million was discovered in the cargo hold of the freighter, with gardai describing it as the largest haul in the history of the State.

The street value of the drugs, once cut down and sold on, would have been up to three times that estimation.

The MV Matthews captain, Soheil Jelveh, and 24 crew members were detained and questioned following the seizure. Seven crew members have since been charged and are awaiting trial.
Woman (30s) had no known connections to criminality

Detectives investigating the States largest ever drug seizure have arrested a woman in Dublin who is suspected of having a significant logistical role connected to the smuggling operation.

The arrest is the first direct Irish link to the major inquiry in which 2,253 kilos of cocaine were recovered aboard a cargo ship on September 26.

Yesterday morning, detectives attached to the Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (DOCB) carried out a number of searches in the capital as part of the investigation.

During the operation, a woman aged in her 30s was arrested and is currently being detained under organised crime legislation.

She is suspected of organising logistics for the personnel linked to this drug seizure

Gardai believe the woman, who is understood to have no known connections to criminality, was involved in the facilitation of some of the crew members who had been staying in Ireland before the seizure.

One source said: This individual is suspected of playing a significant role in organising logistics for the personnel linked to this drug seizure when they were based in Ireland.

Several people have so far appeared before the courts charged over the record drugs bust.

In total, 157m worth of cocaine was seized after the Army Ranger Wing stormed the MV Matthew cargo ship in an operation which also involved the Irish Naval Service.

The street value of the drugs, once cut down and sold on, would have been up to three times that estimation.

Earlier, a smaller trawler sailing from Castletownbere, Co Cork, which had been due to receive the cocaine shipment, ran aground on a sandbank off the Wexford coast.

A garda spokesperson said that the woman in custody is being detained under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007, at a garda station in Dublin. She can be held for up to seven days.

Gardai traced payments linked to the drugs directly to Dubai

Yesterday, as part of the joint agency taskforce operation, members of the PSNIs Organised Crime Branch also carried out several searches in Northern Ireland.

It is understood these targeted properties were where a number of men connected to the drugs bust were residing, with a number of items seized.

A PSNI spokesperson said: Detectives from the Police Services Organised Crime Branch, who carried out searches in Newry, seized a number of items, including a vehicle and mobile phones. All have been removed for further examination.

We previously revealed how gardai had traced financial payments, linked to the drug enterprise, directly to Dubai.

This strengthened garda suspicions of the Kinahan crime group having a significant financial stake in the shipment.

The MV Matthew escorted into Cobh

The drug cartel leaders continue to reside in Dubai and are the subject of a combined $15m (13.9m) bounty for information leading to their arrest.

Senior officers from the Dubai police force visited Ireland in October and held discussions with their garda counterparts about targeting transnational crime gangs, including the Kinahans.

The financial payments linked to the drug network, which emanated from the Emirate, were among the key aspects discussed during the briefings.

In July a comprehensive investigation file was submitted by gardai to state prosecutors recommending that Daniel Kinahan be charged with directing an organised crime gang.

A large aspect of the case relies on compromised mobile communications, with the offence, on conviction, carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
Shalva Papuashvili, the Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia, stated that there were instances of misinformation and speculations about the use of Georgian territories to circumvent sanctions. However, he emphasized that today there are no lingering questions on the matter.Papuashvili stated that Georgia not only prevents but also actively detains certain items stolen from other countries at its borders. He mentioned that approximately 2,000 transactions were stopped at the border of Georgia due to the detection of goods or companies under sanctions."The conclusion published by the European Commission on November 8 once again dismantled the grounds for speculation. It eliminates those unfortunate instances that, unfortunately, sometimes arise in the heart of Georgia, after which disinformation is spread on various formats and platforms. The European Commission noted in its conclusion that all efforts are aimed at ensuring that the territory of Georgia is not used to circumvent sanctions.There is also a report by the representatives of the European Union, the United States, and Great Britain sanctions, which states that there is no evidence that the territory of Georgia is used to circumvent sanctions. It is a pity that such speculations are taking place inside the country, although nobody has any lingering questions anymore.On the contrary, everyone is grateful that Georgia not only prevents this on its own territory but also detains certain items stolen from other countries at the border of Georgia. About 2,000 such transactions were stopped at the border of Georgia because any goods or sanctioned companies were detected. Georgia is part of the chain that helps the European Union and NATO to effectively implement the sanctions," Papuashvili said.The Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Gharibashvili, met with Joshua Huck, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State of the United States. The meeting, held at the government administration, involved a review of the strategic partnership agenda between Georgia and the United States. Discussions centered on identifying steps to strengthen and deepen the existing cooperation across various fields.Irakli Gharibashvili and Joshua Huck discussed the progress achieved by Georgia on the path of European integration. Joshua Huck congratulated the head of the government on the positive recommendation from the European Commission.The Prime Minister noted that the country is now anticipating a positive decision from the European Council regarding the granting of candidate status. He emphasized that integration into the European Union remains one of the main priorities of the Georgian government's foreign policy.The meeting centered on the security and humanitarian situation in the occupied territories of Georgia. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Joshua Huck for the unwavering support of the United States of America regarding Georgia's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and European integration.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, December 6. Turkmenistan and US companies reviewed and identified approaches to realizing the potential of trade and economic partnership, outlined plans for joint work in key areas, Trend reports.

The undisclosed matters were discussed at the 10th US-Turkmenistan Business Council held in Ashgabat, which was attended by heads and representatives of relevant government and business structures of the two countries.

The delegation that arrived in Ashgabat, headed by Eric Stewart, Executive Director of the US-Turkmenistan Business Council, included executives and representatives of well-known companies, including Visa, Palo Alto Networks, Honeywell, John Deere, etc.

During the meeting, it was noted that leading US companies have been successfully operating in strategically important sectors of Turkmenistan's economy for many years.

At the same time, the high interest of the US business community in deepening effective bilateral cooperation was confirmed.

Among the priority areas of the partnership are the energy sector, transport and communications, the agroindustrial complex, the field of high technologies, renewable energy sources and investments.

Furthermore, during the forum, approaches to realizing the potential of trade and economic partnership were considered and identified, plans for joint work in key areas were outlined.

Back in April 2023, Eric Stewart led a delegation of top executives from a number of US corporations to Turkmenistan and was then welcomed by Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov.

Stay up to date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
While none of the passengers had been seriously physically injured their injuries were confined to psychological trauma

Five passengers of the Irish Ferries vessel MV Epsilon, who believed they were going to die at sea during Storm Imogen, one of the worst in decades, have settled claims totalling 300,000 against the ferry line for undisclosed sums.

Barrister Eamon Marray told the Circuit Civil Court Wednesday that every time the ship was hit and rolled by huge waves the traumatised passengers believed the next one would be fatal.

He said Noel Rowland, of Bridgemount, Belcarra, Castlebar, Co Mayo, his wife, and three children, Florence, Beau and Jude, now all resident in Brussels; Chris Sawyer, also Brussels, and two other passengers also living in Brussels but with Irish connections, had settled their claims against Irish Ferries.

Mr Marray, who appeared with Evan ODwyer of ODwyer Solicitors, Ballyhaunis, for in total nine passengers, told Judge Michael Walsh that the court would have to approve settlement offers of 14,500 each for the three Rowland children.

He said a case involving former NBC war programme producer Susan Burt was being adjourned to be heard at full trial due settlement talks having broken down in her case.

She also lives in Brussels and all of the passengers were travelling from Cherbourg to visit relatives and friends in Ireland.

The court heard that on three different days, 7th, 8th and 9th February, 2016  the length of time it took the Epsilon reaching its destination, all of the passengers were on board when, after exiting the safety of Cherbourg Port, it had been tossed around in the vicious Storm Imogen which meant that for one period of 11 hours they had been unable to dock, expecting the next second might be their last.

Mr Marray said that while none of the passengers had been seriously physically injured their injuries were confined to psychological trauma.

He said the storm had been so bad that most of the Epsilons cargo and the vessel itself had been damaged.

Families huddled together for safety as the vessel was rocked from side to side, one passenger claiming it had been tossed on its side at one stage.

Mr Marray said the incredibly traumatic experience of crew and passengers had been so bad that the incident had been investigated by the Irish Marine Casualty Investigation Board which had characterized the event as a serious marine incident at the highest level.

He was confident that had liability not been accepted in these cases at the last minute by Irish Ferries, negligence would have been proven.

Judge Walsh said it had been a traumatic incident for everyone concerned and he had no difficulty in approving the offers of settlement made to the Rowland children who, thankfully, had made a full recovery.

On the application of Mr Marray he struck out all of the cases that had been settled for undisclosed sums and adjourned the case of retired journalist Ms Susan Burt who lives in Chippenham, England, and who had been on her way with her partner, Christopher Sawyer, to visit her family in Ireland.
Gardai and emergency services arrived at the scene yesterday shortly after 6pm.

A man was rushed to hospital after an incident in Dublin city centre on Tuesday evening.

Gardai and emergency services arrived at the scene outside Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery on James Street, Dublin 8 yesterday shortly after 6pm.

Footage taken by a bystander shows a large garda presence at the scene, while firefighters appeared to treat a person on the ground.

A man in his 30s was taken to St Jamess Hospital for treatment.

A garda spokesperson said: Gardai were alerted to an incident on James Street in Dublin at around 6pm on Tuesday evening, December 5, 2023.

A man aged in his 30s was removed from the scene to St James's Hospital to receive medical treatment.

No further information is being provided, the spokesperson added.
Lauren Erickson Van Wart (44) was paddle boarding off the coast of the five-star Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort in Nassau on Monday morning when she tragically lost her life.

Mortuary services transport the body of a female tourist after a fatal shark attack in near Sandals Royal Bahamian resort, in Nassau, Bahamas. Photo: REUTERS/Dante Carrer.

A Boston bride was killed in a shark attack on the first day of her Bahamas honeymoon earlier this week.

Lauren Erickson Van Wart (44) was paddle boarding off the coast of the five-star Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort in Nassau on Monday morning when she tragically lost her life.

She had received severe injuries to her right hip and arm.

Holiday goers relaxing on the nearby beach are said to have heard screams coming from the water as a lifeguard at the luxury hotel spotted the woman in distress and quickly made their way over to help, the Daily Mail reports. They attempted CPR but attempts to revive her were unsuccessful.

The victim's body was later recovered and brought back to the beach on a covered gurney and loaded into an ambulance.

Sergeant Desiree Ferguson with Royal Bahamian Police said: Shortly after 11.15am police were notified that a female visitor from Boston, Massachusetts, USA was attacked by a shark.

According to our initial reports, the female along, with a male relative were paddle boarding just at the rear of a resort in Western New Providence, some 3/4 miles out from the shoreline when she was bitten by the shark.

A lifeguard on duty who saw what was happening went out in a rescue boat, retrieved the victim, along with the male relative and brought them to safety CPR was administered to the victim.

However she suffered serious injuries to the right side of her body, including the right hip region and also her right upper limb.

Emergency Medical Services responded to this scene they thoroughly assessed the victim and they declared that she showed no vital signs of life.

She added that it took a few hours to recover the woman from the water.

A spokesman for Sandals said: We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of a guest while on a paddle boarding activity nearly a mile from the shore.

We wish to express our heartfelt condolences to the guest's family and loved ones.

We remain in close contact with them and are providing all support possible during this difficult time.

Rob Waldron, CEO of Curriculum Associates, where Van Wart worked, paid tribute to the editor.

Our team is heartbroken and grieving the loss of a dear and trusted colleague and friend, he said.

Lauren was a beloved member of our math editorial team, and she infused her deep dedication to students and educators into every material she touched. Her commitment to excellence and outstanding work was driven by a higher purpose, focused on improving learning outcomes for all.

Our Curriculum Associates community is mourning this tragedy and extends our deepest love and support to Lauren's wonderful husband and all of her family.
Te Kahui Tika Tangata Human Rights Commission today released an independent report which explains how to improve the Code of Practice that Meta, Google, Tiktok, Twitch and X have developed to guide their management of online harm in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Throughout my time as Chief Commissioner, I have been alarmed by the escalating harm many individuals and communities are facing online, says Te Amokapua Chief Human Rights Commissioner Paul Hunt.

Were talking about harms, from pervasive online bullying, to the spread of disinformation and child pornography. Our current legislation in New Zealand needs review and reform.

The Chief Commissioner chaired an independent accountability group over a three-month period, featuring six independent experts ranging from academia to community organisations focused on reducing online harm.

This strong group included lived experience of online harm, technical knowledge, as well as a deep understanding of how online harm affects communities in Aotearoa, says Hunt.

We look forward to hearing how the new government plans to put in place a human rights compliant regulatory framework that protects everyone in New Zealand from dangerous online harm, Hunt added.

But the primary focus of the group was how Meta, Google, Tiktok, Twitch and X could improve the Code of Practice they agreed last year.

The five signatory digital platforms contributed to the Aotearoa New Zealand Code of Practice for Online Safety and Harms, alongside Netsafe, before signing it in 2022. It is a voluntary code administered by NZTech.

The Chief Commissioner says the independent group acknowledges the signatories, as well as NZTech and Netsafe, for their role in developing the voluntary code which is a welcome initiative.

Internationally this Code of Practice is receiving praise and, given it was authored with the digital platforms, its crucial there is independent scrutiny of whether it meets the human rights responsibilities of companies and whether it suitably applies te Tiriti o Waitangi, says Hunt.

All businesses have human rights responsibilities, as laid out in the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

We want to help the digital platforms deliver their human rights responsibilities for the benefit of everyone in Aotearoa, says the Chief Commissioner.

The group's report says the Code of Practice would be improved if it had a more detailed and nuanced appreciation of the countrys historical, demographic, economic, social, cultural, environmental, and legal context.

The group acknowledges that the Code refers to te Tiriti o Waitangi but says it should be made clearer how the articles of te Tiriti are integrated into the work of the signatory companies, and those responsible for the Codes oversight and administration.

The report explains that the Code falls short of a similar initiative developed in Europe. The group says that one way of improving the Code is by ensuring its standards are not lower than those agreed by the Codes signatories in other countries.

Given international interest in the Code of Practice, the Commission will be submitting the groups report to the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights for their consideration.

Earlier this year, the Commission published a human rights briefing on the communication revolution which is sweeping the world.

The groups report takes a step further and outlines a human rights and te Tiriti approach to ensure the technology does not erode, but deepens, our democracy.

Theres a long way to go and we hope the government and companies will do everything they can to improve online safety for everyone in New Zealand, says Hunt.

Independent Accountability Group Members

Tina Ngata, Independent Researcher, Environmental, Indigenous and Human Rights Advocate

Gareth Jones, Project Co-Lead, Inclusive Aotearoa Collective Tahono

Anjum Rahman, Founder and Project Co-Lead, Inclusive Aotearoa Collective Tahono

Steven Ratuva, Pro-Vice Chancellor Pacific, Distinguished Professor, Director of the Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies, University of Canterbury

Kate Hannah, Founder and Director, The Disinformation Project

Scout Barbour-Evans, Director, Te Kahukura Puawai

Paul Hunt, Chief Human Rights Commissioner

Comments from Members

Tina Ngata

The value of independent oversight on matters of human rights and social media cannot be overstated at this juncture of history. This has been a very worthwhile opportunity to demonstrate how human rights may be protected in a locally relevant and robust fashion. I look forward to seeing how the work of the Independent Accountability Group contributes to further developments in the crafting of an accountable, safe, and just online environment.

Anjum Rahman

"Online harm is impacting the well-being of many people. Our hope with this report is to improve any processes put in place to ensure that te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations are fulfilled and human rights are upheld both within the wording of the Code of Practice and the structures in place to implement it. Accountability and transparency are crucial for any system dealing with harm."

Kate Hannah

The Code of Practice is a new initiative which relies on self-regulation from social media platforms; it is critical that its efficacy for Aotearoa is tested and developed in collaboration with those who came together to establish the Code. The pilot Independent Accountability Group should be one of many ways in which New Zealand explores whats fit for purpose."

Scout Barbour-Evans

No single person, government or corporation is exempt from the responsibility to uphold our collective human rights. Im excited to see what broader work our report will lead to.

Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.
For the fifth Christmas in a row, the Acorn Foundation and Craigs Investment Partners have teamed up to support the community here in the Western Bay of Plenty and in 18 other regions across NZ where Craigs operate.

This year, the Craigs team donated a total of $150,000 to charities around the country, of which more than $39,000 has been gifted to 13 charities in the Western Bay of Plenty.

Acorn is proud to continue our philanthropic partnership with Craigs," says Acorn CEO Lori Luke.

"Their generosity will once again help local charities provide essential support to vulnerable people in our communities, at a time of year that can be difficult for many.

This year, more than 300 Craigs employees participated in the organisations Workplace Giving programme, with Craigs matching employee donations dollar for dollar.

Workplace giving is a hugely rewarding initiative and its fantastic to see so many colleagues support a philanthropic cause," says Craigs CEO Simon Tong.

"The concept isnt so much about the amount donated, but more about engagement and support for our communities.

Tauranga-based Craigs employees chose the following 13 local community groups to receive a share of the donation:

Big Buddy

Awhina House

Good Neighbour

Tauranga Community Foodbank

St Peters House

Grief Support Services

Live for More

Heart Kids

Takitimu House

Kura Kai

Te Whare Waiora

Merivale Community Centre

Abbeyfield NZ

Big Buddy Mentoring Trust CEO Jason Judkins says the $6,000 donation they received from Craigs this year will really make a difference to the whanau they support:

We frequently hear from mums and caregivers that having a Big Buddy show up regularly, for just a few hours each week, really makes a difference to their boys," says Jason.

"They are happier, more confident and willing to try new things. It is thanks to donations like this that we can continue our work, changing lives one boy at a time.

Nicki Goodwin, Manager of Tauranga Community Foodbank, says the $4,000 donation they received from Craigs this Christmas will go directly towards purchasing staple food items they require.

$4,000 can purchase the following goods: 750 fresh chicken drumsticks, 2,000 chicken sausages, 3,030 eggs," says Nicki.

"There are many other products we purchase so that people have fresh, nutritious foods to take home. Some of the other items include potatoes, onions, seasonal fruit and vegetables, peanut butter, canned goods, rice, pasta, and milk.

"Our sincerest thanks to everyone at Craigs Investment Partners for supporting your community in such an important way," says Nicki.
More than a quarter of the deaths from the tsunami that hit Japans eastern coast in 2011, were due to people being trapped in their cars while trying to escape and having to abandon them.

Two senior Bay of Plenty emergencymanagement advisers, Liz Oliver from Tauranga City Council and Jo Lynskey from Western Bay District Council, presented their findings to Whakatane Rotary from their exchange trip to Japan earlier this year.

The trip was funded by the Tokyo Metropolitan University, to learn about the impacts and recovery from earthquake and resulting tsunami, which reached 39 metres in height, at its peak.

A presentation they gave to a meeting of Whakatane District Council last month made such an impression on councillor John Pullar he invited them to return to share their experiences with Whakatane Rotary, of which he is a member.

They say that although the event is known as the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake, 98 per cent of damage had been attributed to the tsunami, not the earthquake. More than 18,000 were killed, despite Japan having a significant history of tsunami.

There were several actions that highly impacted their evacuations. So 26 per cent of fatalities in surveyed areas were actually caused by people being stuck in or abandoning their vehicles during the tsunami. Im sure people have seen photos of more recent evacuations (In the Bay of Plenty) where everyone jumps in their cars and tries to go and congestion hits, says Liz.

They say that although Japan had extremely good planning in place due to a long history of tsunami, and had a high level of compliance, it did not help in every situation.

Breakwaters designed to protect towns from tsunami of up to 3 metres gave people a false sense of security. In other cases people did evacuate but returned to their homes after 15 minutes.

Previous tsunami arrival times in the area were within a 15-minute time period so some people did evacuate, but when it started to get a bit longer people thought there wasnt going to be a tsunami this time. We often think lived experience will mean there will be good decision-making. In this case it did impact some people negatively, says Jo.

The schools in particular had a phenomenal sense of planning, says Liz.

Out of all the people that were killed, only 75 were school students. However, even among schools was a case poor planning cost lives.

Of those 75 school students killed, 74 were from one school, which was two miles inland so was not considered a major risk.

The school had a large hill 30 seconds walk from their school yard. Instead, because they did not have a detailed plan in place, they evacuated them toward a bridge out of town, and died.

"There were 11 teachers on site, only one survived and four students. They were the ones that werent compliant. They ran for the hill.

Another school principal is still lauded as a hero in his town for quickly altering the planned evacuation route.

ather than walking down the school driveway and then turning to go up the hill he realised there was no time and instead took a shorter route over the back fence.

The teachers were, literally,throwing the children over the back fence. Now, theyve actually put steps up the back so they dont have to walk toward the water to get away from the water.

They also looked at the different ways various towns had rebuilt, extremities of which included managed retreat of all low-lying areas and the building of sea walls of over 15 metres high.

Both women say they found it impossible to imagine walls of this size being built in New Zealand.

Imagine Ohope Beach blocked off by a 15-metre sea wall ... It would never get across the line that would be acceptable with our connection to the sea. It was that way in Japan as well. However, the people we spoke to said, at what point do you lose that much of your population and not consider it.

Tsunami Tendenko has become the byword for teaching the community about how to respond to a tsunami. Tendenko, meaning each one individually, encourages each person to run to a high place quickly.

Children as young as four and five know exactly what it means. It means you are responsible for yourself and you need to know what to do  If the majority know what to do, know where to go and know what happens when you get there, then they can save each other as a whole."

Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.
A Tauranga teacher is one of four early childhood, primary and secondary school educators from across the country who have been honoured with National Excellence in Teaching Awards.

Donna Williams, from Elm Tree Learning Centre, has won the Seed Award - a $5000 professional grant development - for her empowering and empathetic approaches to tamariki that promote a lifelong enjoyment of learning.

Donnas parent nominator Lisa Taylor says Donna extended their sons knowledge and pounced on his motivation to learn at every level.

We will be forever grateful to her for putting in the hard yards to make him the young man he is today, says Lisa.

Donna says its a privilege to teach and inspire someone else's child, so while tamariki are in her care she makes them feel loved, respected and valued.

I was shy and anxious in my early years and didn't do well at school.

I felt I wasn't smart enough to study until aged 45 when I set aside those fears so I could help our young people to believe in themselves and know they have a voice and are valued.

I see each tamaiti for the uniqueness they offer, and nurture their emotional wellbeing with gentle guidance and plenty of reassurance.

The winners travelled to Melbourne, Australia to receive their honours at a luncheon ceremony on hosted by Futurity Investment Group which has supported the awards since inception 29 years ago.

The 2023 awards received a record number of 2525 nominations across Australia and New Zealand.
Bay of Plenty Police are appealing for the publics help to find 74-year-old Matthew Weko.

In a statement released today, police say Matthew was last seen on Thursday, November 30, at his home on River Road, Kawerau.

"He was wearing dark blue track pants, and a dark blue jacket with a black fleece jacket underneath.

"Police and Matthews family have concerns for his wellbeing.

"Anyone who has seen Matthew or has information on his whereabouts is urged to call Police on 105, quoting file number 231205/6645."
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, December 6. Turkmenistan and the US expressed a desire to expand a diverse partnership on a long-term basis, Trend reports.

This commitment was expressed by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Executive Director of the US-Turkmenistan Business Council Eric Stewart.

During the meeting, the sides noted the dynamic nature of bilateral cooperation, and confirmed readiness to expand a diverse partnership on a long-term basis, in the context of which the important contribution of the joint business council to the development of interstate trade and economic relations was noted.

Furthermore, they stressed that since its foundation, the business council has become an effective instrument of US-Turkmenistan cooperation, an effective platform for establishing, strengthening and activating productive contacts between economic entities of the two countries.

The parties added that the large US companies that are part of it are successfully operating in the Turkmen market in strategically important sectors, while more and more representatives of new companies are showing their interest in joining these works.

Among the promising areas of bilateral cooperation were the oil and gas sector, electric power, renewable energy, transport and communications, agroindustrial complex, technology, etc.

Back in April 2023, Eric Stewart led a delegation of top executives from a number of US corporations to Turkmenistan and was then welcomed by Turkmenistan's President Serdar Berdimuhamedov.

Stay up to date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Labour leader Chris Hipkins says the new government is taking a backwards step by discouraging the use of te reo Maori.

Hipkins says for the last four or five decades successive Labour and National governments had worked to reconcile past grievances that Maori have legitimately held.

"I think what's disappointing is that for the first time in a generation we're actually seeing a government who want to wind back some of that progress."

The coalition agreements that the new government has signed up to take things backwards and te reo Maori is an official language of New Zealand, he says.

"If you look at the MFAT [Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade] for example, they issued a memo in the transition period saying that people should stop using te reo Maori. You know ministers have been indicating to government departments that they don't want to see te reo Maori in their documentation - I think that's wrong."

Since the Maori Language Act 2016 was passed successive governments had invested in the capability of government departments to have te reo Maori speakers, but the incoming National government were indicating they wanted to remove the support for that which was a backwards step, he says.

Hipkins says he welcomes a national hui to bring together the many voices of Maori which would be hosted by Kingi Tuheitia at Turangawaewae Marae next month.

A spokesperson for Kingi Tuheitia says many Maori are strongly opposed to the government's statements on the Treaty of Waitangi which could undermine decades of hard fought justice.

Hipkins says it is disappointing the incoming government want to wind back progress and thinks getting together to discuss it would be a positive thing.

Protest marches and convoys were held around the country on Tuesday in response to Te Pati Maori's call for action against the new government's policies on co-governance and the Treaty.

Asked if he supported Tuesday's protests, Hipkins says he supports the right to free speech and protest and Maori had a right to protest against the current government.

Te Pati Maori MPs' swearing in at Parliament on Tuesday appears to have included oaths to King "Harehare", as well as to mokopuna, the Treaty and tikanga Maori.

During the swearing-in, the party's MPs all prefaced their vows with a different vow, first in te reo Maori, then in English.

Hipkins says if people did not follow the proscribed format for the oath, it was a matter for the Clerk of the House.

The Clerk of the House of Representatives on Wednesday clarified that Te Pati Maori MPs would not need to retake the Oath of Allegiance because they had taken the oath properly.

Asked if it was time to take another look at the requirement to swear an oath of allegiance to the King, Hipkins says he was the current head of state.

"So effectively you're swearing allegiance to the New Zealand head of state, whether or not people want the King to be head of state, or whether they want a New Zealand head of state, that's a legitimate question."

So far New Zealanders had not indicated they wanted to move away from having the monarchy as the country's head of state, he says.

"I'm on record as saying that's something that should happen in time if that's what Kiwis want then that's what Kiwis should get."

It was good to see more people taking the oath in te reo Maori, he said.

"I think the fact that increasing numbers of people were taking the oath in te reo Maori, including a number of Pakeha members of Parliament on both sides of the House, that's something that's really positive and you know I encourage people to do that.

"I haven't had the confidence to do that myself, one day hopefully I'll be in a position to do that."

'Cost escalations are a fact' - Hipkins on accusation of 'workarounds'

Finance Minister Nicola Willis has accused the previous government of finding "workarounds" to hide the scale of short-term funding saying changes may be made to the Public Finance Act to safeguard against these kinds of changes - which was "upholding the letter of the law but not necessarily its spirit" - in future.

But Hipkins says the information was contained in the pre-election fiscal update.

"If Nicola Willis doesn't have the concentration span to read the Budget documents from one end to the other and wants someone to give her a nice little summary for it, that's probably really more of an issue for her to work on."

Hipkins says as Finance Minister she would need to read and understand a number of big documents.

It was a distraction by Willis because she could not make her numbers add up as the government's plans were unaffordable, he says.

Hipkins denied his government left any nasty surprises for the incoming administration.

"Look, cost escalations are a fact and they always have been. When we became the government in 2017 we inherited a number of projects from the last government, Transmission Gully springs to mind, where we had to put extra money in to get those projects finished because the costs had gone up."

Labour made provision for cost escalations for projects when it was in government, and the fact that National had not made those provisions was one of the reasons why their plans were unaffordable, he says.
Pushing pause on policies that affect bars and the sale of alcohol in Tauranga is positive for the city, a shop owner says.

Tauranga City Council is delaying the adoption of its Local Alcohol Policy (LAP) that would have forced Tauranga bars to close at 2am and not allow people in from 1am.

It also wouldve prevented stores from selling alcohol before 10am, instead of 7am currently.

The policy was set to come into force on February 12, 2024, but the commissioner has asked to revisit the policy.

Commission chair Anne Tolley said in a statement the commission wanted time to think about how it would work in practice.

Ive been contacted by various groups who want to talk to us. People like supermarket owners, those who sell alcohol along with other things, and those in downtown hospitality businesses.

Vetro Mediterranean Foods co-owner Christine Gore opposed the policy because it would stop her customers purchasing wine with their food before 10am.

It would have inconvenienced the customers, she said.

The decision to delay the policy was a positive for the city, said Gore.

It's a good thing that they're not so rigid in their policies that they can't adapt to change as it's needed. I'm glad that they're listening.

It doesn't mean it's completely over.

The 10am policy was the least sensible and Gore said she hoped it would be reversed.

Foodstuffs, which owns PaknSave, said the policy would have inconvenienced customers. Photo: SunLive.

Foodstuffs cooperative, which owns New World, PaknSave and Four Square supermarkets, was also against the policy.

Foodstuffs head of co-operative public relations Emma Wooster said the co-operative supported the maximum alcohol sale hours set by central Government, which is from 7am 11pm.

Not selling alcohol prior to 10am, as was proposed, adds operational complexity to the running of the store, ultimately adding to cost and therefore the overall value we can offer our customers.

It also inconveniences customers who drink responsibly and need flexibility around their shopping times as theyre juggling family and work commitments.

Closing Tauranga CBD bars at 2am was also unpopular with the hospitality industry.

Crown and Badger operations manager Katja Halbgewachs previously said the decision would have been bad for the city centre.

The bars owner Jessica MacKenzie said it was fantastic the council had decided to give their decision some breathing room.

I don't know if the actual final outcome is going to be any different. I really hope it is for the community's sake.

People were safer in a bar than on the street in the early hours of the morning, she said.

All staff were trained to how to manage peoples alcohol consumption and the bars had security.

We manage it in a way where customers often don't even notice they're being managed. They're in a safe environment.

Commission chair Anne Tolley said the commission wanted to think about how the policy would work in practice. Photo: John Borren/SunLive.

The 2am closing time and one-way door restriction from 1am was to prevent people travelling from bars in Mount Maunganui to Tauranga.

A one was door policy stops people entering a bar after 1am and if they leave they cant return.

MacKenzie said part of the councils reasoning for the earlier closing time was a lack of police resources.

The new closing time would have meant two tip outs at similar times but the police didnt have enough resources for one let alone two, MacKenzie believed.

I hope that they [council] make any decisions in consultation with the affected parties.

Tolley said there wasnt time before Christmas to consider everyones requests and she also wanted to speak to the police again.

We may end up in the same place, but we need more time to meet with groups and have another conversation.

Another change proposed in the LAP was to not allow any new liquor stores to open in areas with a deprivation index of 8 or 9.

Deprivation index measures the level of poverty in an area with 10 being the highest.

The council will now reconsider the policy in the new year.

Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.
UPDATE: A blockage on at the Chapel St On Ramp is now clear, but motorists are warned to expect delays until the congestion clears.

Tauranga City Council says traffic can now move up onto the SH2 Harbour Bridge system.

"There is significant local congestion which will take some time to clear.

"This congestion will still take some time to clear so delays can still be expected for some time."

EARLIER:

People travelling between Tauranga and Mount Maunganui via the Chapel Street On Ramp are being asked to avoid the area this morning.

There is a blockage on the Chapel St On Ramp to the Harbour Bridge due to a caravan that has broken a draw bar, says a Tauranga City Council spokesperson.

"The on ramp is completely blocked."

Council reports there is major congestion and traffic is backed up on Chapel St and Ngatai Rd, past Bureta Rd.

"Expect significant delays.

"Consider delaying travel or using alternate routes."
Jose Rodriguez Camara Rincon de la Victoria Wednesday, 6 December 2023, 18:31 Compartir Copiar enlace

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The debate on a coastal train and the extension of the metro from Malaga city to the east of the province, as well as the need to improve the capacity of the A-7 motorway in the Axarquia has once again been discussed at a council meeting in Rincon de la Victoria.

This time it was a motion presented by right-wing Vox councillors requesting that, as the towns General Urban Development Plan is being drawn up, it would be advisable to coordinate with Malaga city hall and Andalucias regional government to look at extending the citys metro system to the town.

The PP, PSOE and Por mi Pueblo political parties were generally in favour of backing the proposal, but Con Rincon opted to abstain, "agreeing on the substance, but not on the form". They said that they did not consider it to be urgent and "have doubts about the model".

Mayor of Rincon de la Victoria, Francisco Salado, announced during the meeting that the town hall, along with Unicaja bank, are carrying out a study on transport connections between Malaga city and the east of Malaga province with "definitive solutions".

European Union funding

These, he said, include combining the Cercanias local trains which currently operate from Malaga city along the Costa del Sol to Fuengirola and up to Alora, and the metro which currently only serves the western part of Malaga city to the centre.

In terms of the possible cost of the project, Salado was clear: "That it is more expensive? Yes, but we are talking about the survival of the province of Malaga. If money has to be put in, let it be put in".

In terms of financing, the mayor alluded to European Union funds. He also said that a mixed model is the only way, so that it fits in with the urban fabric of Malagas metropolitan area and also to ensure that most of the route is underground.

The PSOE challenged the PP mayor by asking, "Do you know why the metro system is not more advanced than in El Palo? Because Paco de la Torre [mayor of Malaga city] already decided that in 2013. You and the Diputacion de Malaga [Malaga's provincial authority organisation of which Saldo is also the president] have an important job ahead of you".
SUR Rincon de la Victoria Wednesday, 6 December 2023, 18:37 Compartir Copiar enlace

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Rincon de la Victoria town hall has launched a campaign to encourage people to shop locally and support the towns bars, restaurants and hotels.

Councillor for commerce Lola Ramos explained that the aim of the campaign was to "establish a closer relationship with the small and medium-sized businesses, hotels, bars and restaurants in the town as a strategic sector for economic and social development".

Mayor of Rincon de la Victoria, Francisco Salado, said that the campaign was designed to "promote local trade as a generator of employment in the town". He and Ramos have been visiting local businesses, taking the opportunity to wish them happy holidays," Ramos added.
Pilar Martinez Malaga Wednesday, 6 December 2023, 16:22 Compartir Copiar enlace

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The Aehcos association of hoteliers on the Costa del Sol has predicted that 2023 will be the best year in the sector's history. In their first assessment of the last twelve months, the hotel body stated that "it will be the year of the definitive recovery of tourism in Malaga province".

The latest figures back this up assertion: the average occupancy levels on the coast and across Malaga province will reach 77% occupancy, which is 1.4% above the level of the previous record year of 2019. The strength of the destination and demand will allow growth this year of 6.25% above 2022 figures, when the average occupancy was 70.75%.

Aehcos expects a 52.1% occupancy rate for this December, which is the same as last year and is 3% lower than before the pandemic. However, the employers' association points out that this decline could be overcome with last-minute bookings. "These are provisional forecasts given that we have to wait for the behaviour of potential tourists during this month," Aehcos' executive committee said.

By destination, the hoteliers' body said that this December the municipalities of Frigiliana and Torrox are at the top of the ranking, with a 75% occupancy rate. They are followed by Benalmadena, with 55%; Nerja, with 41.2%; and Mijas with 38.7%.

International tourism

Aehcos also highlighted the good performance of November when hotels on the Costa del Sol registered an average occupancy rate of 71.4%. These figures are around 10% above those recorded last year when occupancy was 64.8% and are also slightly above the 2019 figures.

International tourism is driving the increase and accounts for 75% of travellers, compared to a Spanish demand that the hotel association considers "stagnant". Jose Luque, president of Aehcos, said that "we see a clear improvement in these figures with a significant recovery of the international tourists, but we want to appeal to the national tourism market in Spain for the month of December and particularly the long 'puente' (bridge) Consitution Day week holiday".
Cristina Vallejo Malaga Wednesday, 6 December 2023, 16:46 Compartir Copiar enlace

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Malaga is the province with the highest volume of foreign investment in all of Andalucia. In 2021, the last year with available data provided by a study carried out by the Ciedes foundation and Promalaga, it registered more than 3.8 billion euros, 38% of the Andalusian total, which exceeded 10 billion. Malaga is followed by Cordoba, with nearly 1.5 billion euros, and Cadiz, with 1.4 billion, or 14% of the total. This is followed by Huelva, with 11.2% and Seville, with 10.7%.

Although the accumulated gross investment in Malaga province fell by 3.2% in 2021 compared to the previous year, this pales compared to the fall of nearly 13% recorded in the region as a whole. And in 2022 there was a reduction in the inflow of capital into the province: it fell by 75% year-on-year, to 85 million, which represented 0.5% of the foreign investment that arrived in Spain and 6.75% of that in Andalucia.

By sectors, in Andalucia, the largest accumulated investment corresponds to wholesale trade, with more than 3.3 billion euros, followed by real estate activities and mineral extraction, with more than 800 million euros each; the chemical industry had 773 million euros.

The sixth Barometer of the Business Climate and Foreign Investment in Malaga, published on Tuesday by the Ciedes foundation and Promalaga (the latter being part of the Innovation, Digitalisation and Investment Attraction Department of Malaga City Council) includes other favourable indicators of foreign companies and also Spanish companies in Malaga city .

The majority of the corporate sector present in Malaga city recognises "a high rate of business". Although foreign companies are the most optimistic, as 51% are inclined to this opinion, compared to 42.9% of Spanish companies.

Turnover growth

Also, more than half of the foreign companies with interests in Malaga, 53.3% to be precise, say that their turnover has grown in 2023, and 46.6% also state that the increase has also been in the employment generated. Likewise, 42% say that there has been an increase in investment, while in 65% of cases exports have been maintained.

The Ciedes foundation study notes that the main motivations for foreign companies to stay in Malaga are the geographical location in more than 75% of cases, in addition to the attractiveness of the area. Similarly, the survey reveals that 81.5% of foreign companies maintain their confidence in the tax and regulatory environment offered in Malaga city. In addition, 72% of the foreign companies also have confidence in the infrastructures and financing that are available.

Quality of life

The availability of talent and quality of life, two of Malaga's bastions for attracting investment, continue to be strong points for 65.12% and 51.16%, respectively, of foreign companies to the city. Other reasons mentioned by the companies include stability and legal security, as well as the clear vision and the city project.

There is a very significant gap between foreign and Spanish companies: while more than 72% of the former are in favour of teleworking, in the case of Spanish companies, the proportion of those in favour drops to 36%.
David Lerma Marbella Wednesday, 6 December 2023, 13:51 Compartir Copiar enlace

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The 27th Andalucia Environment Awards organised by the Department of Sustainability, Environment and Blue Economy of the Junta de Andalucia regional government, were recently held at the Palacio de Congresos in Cordoba. The ceremony recognised eleven companies and professionals for their commitment to the conservation, protection and dissemination of environmental values. One of the recipients was Civitas Puerto Banus, which manages the well-known port of Marbella. The company has worked in collaboration with a professor of Marine Biology of the University of Seville, Jose Carlos Garcia Gomez, whose research could save the limpet Patella ferruginea from extinction.

Native to the western Mediterranean, it is the most endangered intertidal mollusc on the EU Habitats Directive list. In countries such as France and Italy, it is considered extinct, and in Spain it is considered as endangered as the Iberian lynx.

Since 2021, Civitas Puerto Banus and the University of Seville have been carrying out a pilot project led by Jose Carlos Garcia Gomez, who is also head of the Marine Biology Laboratory at the University of Seville. This project has made it possible to transfer these limpets to an artificial habitat using a new technique. The method is carried out through rapid, manual extraction during the relaxation phase, during the rising tide, to transport them in holding plates and watertight bags, with a survival rate of up to 95 per cent. This new method will protect the future of this species, as eventually they will be able to introduce adult specimens in natural habitats where the species is absent, but where it existed previously.

Jose Carlos Garcia Gomez. SUR

Juan Nunez, CEO of Civitas Puerto Banus, explained how it all started. "In 2017 we made a significant change in the management of the company and there was a change in direction. In the new management team we wanted to see what new areas to work on and where we wanted to direct Puerto Banus, always maintaining its origin as a reference port in nautical and commercial matters in the south of Spain. We realised that we had to work along two lines: to be more careful with the impact on the environment and to modernise and digitalise the infrastructures. We realised that Puerto Banus at the time was doing little in terms of sustainability. We drew up a five-year roadmap. We have made progress on many initiatives, including protecting local biodiversity. We live thanks to the sea and for the sea. We realised we had a critically endangered species. So we contacted Jose Carlos."

"We had been trying for several years to find a way to achieve an effective translocation," explained biologist Jose Carlos Garcia, who said that, after failing in every attempt, he finally had his eureka moment. "It has happened to every researcher". At first, when the specimens were pulled up, "there was an O-ring effect", i.e. the limpets were sealed if they were changed from one substrate to another and eventually died of dehydration. "I was very frank with them. The chances of success were close to zero at the time". But in the end, tenacity and the discovery of a key point in the research led to a breakthrough. "Sometimes you can't see the wood for the trees. It was as simple as avoiding the suction cup effect when you pull it out and leave it on another surface".

At present, the Alboran Sea holds the largest number of this species, but the biologist said that "its habitat is in danger due to its easy access to humans and because it is very easy to remove them with a knife or a stone. The last stronghold of the Neanderthals in the area, in the Mora cave in Gibraltar, shows that they were already capturing them". Especially the larger females, although they are born male at first and then sexual inversion takes place. If they stay too far away from each other, the chances of fertilisation are reduced. "This is how extinction starts," concluded the researcher.
David Lerma Marbella Wednesday, 6 December 2023, 13:31 Compartir Copiar enlace

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He does not consider himself a writer, but Angel Custodio, 44, has written and self-published Salir de la Calle, a book in which he recounts his experience of eight months living on the streets of Madrid. I was taking notes, it was like therapy, says the man who until a year ago was a successful builder and former director of a large Spanish publishing house. Educated, from a good family and good-looking, Angel has a clear outlook, despite having hit rock bottom, and speaks with an unusual openness. He has a 600,000 euro debt with Spain's tax authorities that he does not know when he will be able to pay off. For the moment, he earns his living by selling his books on the street, and he has sold 600 copies in a month and a half. He was recently invited to the Christmas charity fair organised by Caritas in Marbella, where he signed copies of his book. He plans to donate ten per cent of the profits he makes to the organisation.

Why did you decide to tell your story?

People who came to see me in the street were very inquisitive. Hey, you don't look like a beggar. You're very strange, they would say. They were very curious. There were people who came to give me a helping hand. They asked me how I was doing and helped me. They also told me about their experiences, their misfortunes and, because of my way of understanding life, in the end I ended up encouraging them. Then I started to take notes in a notebook or on a piece of cardboard. As Albert Einstein said, don't keep in your head what you can fit on a piece of paper. If a child walked past, he would say to me: Angel, you are the friendliest person in Spain. I wrote down all the things they told me and, when I had a full collection, they lent me a computer and I started to put it in order. I've read all my life, a lot, but I don't consider myself a writer, even though I've written a book. It has all the faults that a new writer will make. It's a very direct prose, but it does have the concepts that a book has to have.

What did you think before your experience of living on the street?

I never thought about homeless and street people. I had never given them a euro or stopped to talk to them. I didn't see them, they didn't exist for me. I thought they were drunks, drug addicts or people who had been in prison. Or that they were Romanian mafias or Nigerians who do it for a living. I didn't pay attention to them, until I became a homeless person and I saw that we are all vulnerable, that there are people who are two pay packets away from being on the street. Now I think it can happen to anyone.

What was your life like before?

I was a businessman who had a construction company. At the beginning I did a couple of villas a year and things went quite well for me. I had the opportunity to do a development of twelve villas and I said: why not. As I didn't have the tools or the employees to do them, I subcontracted a lot of things and then I got my fingers burnt, not because I was cheated, but because the war in Ukraine started and the price of materials went up. This was in November last year. It's been just over a year.

What is your day-to-day life like?

I spent eight months on the street and now I live in a storage room in Calle Principe de Vergara, in Madrid. It is a passageway. It has a window and eight square metres and a socket. To take a shower, instead of paying 50 cents in the public toilets on the Embajadores roundabout, I've joined a gym. It's good to do sport. I get up at seven in the morning, leave the storeroom, go to the gym, which costs me one euro a day. The first thing I do there is go to the toilet, then I do exercise, take a shower, brush my teeth and shave. Then I go to a little corner of the Plaza Manuel Becerra and there I put out my books and sell them, until nine o'clock at night and then I quietly go back to the storeroom. I pay rent, but I go at times when the doorman is not there so that they don't know that someone is sleeping there. I don't make noise, talk on the phone or listen to music. I don't cook there and I wash my clothes in a laundry.

What response is your book getting?

Most people buy it out of charity and empathy, to lend a hand. How did it happen? At the start I made ten books. I went to a stationer's, made photocopies and had some cardboard for the covers, which I glued myself to reduce costs. People knew me from being there in the square. Then they read it and said, wow, that's good. Apart from being my personal story, it becomes a self-help book. Each chapter contains a reflection. They came back for more and started to recommend it. I've been asked for books from places I never would have thought of. I've sent one to Illinois, another to Brooklyn, Fuerteventura, Las Palmas... Not bad for the last two months. Could I now rent a room? Yes, but I don't know if the book will continue to sell.

Do you have the prospect of finding a job?

Being on the street I've got a job. Just because I live on the street doesn't mean that I'm dirty or filthy. Someone, when they saw that I didn't drink alcohol, offered me a job as an administrative assistant. I was willing to do anything. I had no qualifications, I came from a different trade, I studied labour relations. I made it through the first month, combining it with begging. When I got my salary, because I also had Social Security debts, they took a part of it away from me and left me with the minimum to live on. Up to that point it was fine and I accepted it, but then the tax authorities came along and took away all my salary. And I said: I can't do it. Then I got tuberculosis, I was in hospital and the contract ended. I have worked all my life since I finished my degree. I tried to collect unemployment benefits, but as my company was not liquidated and I had not filed for bankruptcy proceedings, I was not entitled to any benefits. I was in limbo. If I succeed with my book, I might be able to pay off my debts.

What about family and friends?

I have always been a person who has believed in myself and everything I have wanted in life I have achieved. I was a professional athlete, I was a manager in a large publishing house and then I set up a real estate company, a finance company and a construction company, which ruined me. When things were going badly and I didn't want to fail my clients, twelve families who had bet on me, I started to ask for money from the bank, family and friends. I spent that joker to save the company. I didn't say anything to my parents. It screwed up a lot of people's lives. I couldn't tell them that I was on the street. I turned off the phone and disappeared.

Do you feel up to it?

I'm going to do this on my own. I don't know how, but I have a belief. I have God in my heart. I don't understand people who believe in God and say they are not practising. I don't go to mass every Sunday, but when I became homeless I said to myself: He has put me here. Right now I don't understand it, but I will have to learn something without giving up. I have learned more and received more love in Plaza Manuel Becerra than in my whole life. The human race is in great shape. I haven't been hungry, I've hardly been cold. I don't want to sound frivolous, because it has been hard, but it has been a very enriching experience. I can only give thanks for what God has put in my way.

What do you miss from your previous life?

I don't miss anything, because I was self-absorbed. It was my house, my car, my family. I was with my partner for 13 years. When misery came through the door, love jumped out the window. There were my things, my company. I will donate ten percent of what I earn at the Caritas Christmas fair. You have to set an example. If I can do it, you can do it. I would like to set up an association to help homeless people, because I know how to help them. Instead of giving a euro or two euros and keep walking, just stop. As it has happened to me.
Anthony Piovesan Marbella Wednesday, 6 December 2023 | Updated 08/12/2023 15:34h. Compartir Copiar enlace

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Important issues affecting Marbella's large youth expat community will be discussed today (Thursday, 7 December) at this year's United Nationalities of Marbella Summit (UNMS).

President of United Nationalities of Marbella Nicole King said the event at The Harbour restaurant in the town centre port will help bring awareness to issues that affect many young foreigners living in Marbella and which do not fall under the responsibility of town hall.

"I work in television and get to hear so many people's stories and every year I get a lot of feedback about our community and a lot of issues come up that need fixing that the council isn't necessarily responsible for," she told SUR in English. A lack of social hangout places for international children in the municipality is an issue that repeatedly gets mentioned by expat families in Marbella, she added. "Home is where the heart is unless you cant get a job and dont feel you belong. Most of the children who grow up here cant return 'home' after studying abroad for lack of career opportunities, separating families in the process. That's why they need a space in Marbella because they live here, it's their home."

Happy Helpline

Attendees will also be treated to an update on the Zero Hero project. The road safety initiative aims to involve restaurants and hotels across Marbella and offer patrons free soft drinks as a reward for their responsibility for being a designated driver. King also said a suicide prevention initiative will be launched during the summit, Happy Helpline, which centralises a multitude of contact details for support in English for young people who may be struggling mentally.

NeduAI, will also be unveiled, an interactive and gamified platform designed to help young people choose a higher education course and plan a career. But parents can get involved too, with tech experts discussing the advantages of the new artificial intelligence tool ChatGPT, and how it can be incorporated into everyday lives.

The event will also be attended by representatives of the British Chamber of Commerce, local schools and colleges, associations, Rotary Club and business owners.

It comes as Marbella this week became the seventh most inhabited municipality in Andalucia after its population grew by 6.7% in the past five years to 150,725 inhabitants. Almost a third of those (51,024) are foreign residents. "Marbella has good schools, great homes, but we're just missing that little bit in the middle that makes a strong tight-knit community," King said.
Araceli Mangas / Fergal MacErlean / Tony Bryant Madrid / Malaga Wednesday, 6 December 2023, 11:23 | Updated 15:11h. Compartir Copiar enlace

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On Wednesday 6 December 1978, the people of Spain voted in a referendum to ratify the new Spanish Constitution. The vote marked the culmination of the Spanish transition to democracy after the death of General Francisco Franco.

The new constitution was approved by the Spanish parliament (Cortes Generales) on 31 October 1978, and by nearly 90 per cent of Spanish voters in the referendum on 6 December. It was sanctioned by King Juan Carlos on 27 December and came into effect on 29 December, the day it was published in the Official State Gazette (BOE).

Since then 6 December has been a national holiday in Spain.

The constitution was drafted and approved by the constitutional assembly that was elected after the 1977 general election. It is organised in ten parts, which advocates as the highest values liberty, justice, equality and political pluralism.

A seven-member panel was selected to work on the draft of the constitution and they became known as the 'Fathers of the Constitution'. These seven people were chosen to represent the deeply divided political spectrum within the Spanish Parliament, while the leading role was given to the then ruling UCD party.

The assembly nullified the fundamental laws of the regime as well as existing laws that refuted the principles that the new constitution established.

EFE

Franco dictatorship

The 45 years of the Spanish constitution have seen the greatest period of peace, equality and well-being in the country's history. It was this document that broke down the legal wall of the Franco dictatorship and opened the way for survivors from the two sides of the Civil War to come together.

But there remain problems with its reform, writes Araceli Mangas, professor of public international law and international relations at the Complutense University of Madrid. Mangas says that the 1978 constitution, while broadly well-crafted, has not been reformed as necessary (except in 1992 and 2011 due to EU requirements).

Mangas writes that it has allowed for a full democracy, with parties that have respected the right of others to govern. A full democracy is one that meets all the criteria that internationally accredited bodies score. When it only meets some of the criteria, it is called a hybrid, illiberal authoritarian or autocratic regime.

Until now, Mangas asserts, constitutional Spain has guaranteed respect for human rights and the regularity and fairness of elections. However, fundamental elements of a democracy are being eroded: there are no guarantees for the equality of citizens by recognising that the government's political partners have a licence to commit crimes and, moreover, to embezzle public funds. Judges have an express obligation to try all crimes in accordance with the constitution, but the government now exempts them from their constitutional mandate. The separation of powers has been blurred by the exponential abuse of decree-laws, or by fraudulent bills drafted by the government to circumvent constitutional checks and balances.

Full democracies establish safety nets or control valves so that each institution plays its role and counterweights work against any excess of the three branches of government. Judicial control is fundamental to avoid both interpretative errors and intentional acts by judges and courts. If there is evidence of prevarication in the judicial investigation or ruling, it must be denounced so that a court can establish whether or not the judicial offence has been committed.

What a democracy cannot allow, Mangas claims, is parliamentary harassment of judges who comply with the constitution. The law professor alleges that the PSOE-Junts agreement and the publication of the amnesty bill are, for the moment, the latest episode of harassment of the constitution.

The rifts in Spain between the right and the left have never been more apparent as the country enters a period of fracture precipitated by those seeking independence from the state. Alarmingly, this has bolstered the far-right, which up until now has not been a feature of Spanish political life as it has in many other European nations. Democracy in the EU faces challenges from rising extremism and polarisation.

Second public holiday

Today, Wednesday 6 December, is a time to be proud of the positive aspects of the constitution and to celebrate its democratic values. Many people will get to enjoy five days off as there is a second public holiday, in addition to today, fall on Wednesday and Friday 8 December for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

When one includes the 'puente' (bridge) day between the public holidays, many people will enjoy a five-day long weekend. All shops will be open for four out of the possible five days. Wednesday 6 December is the only day that department stores will not open their doors.
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BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 6. During the operation in the Gaza Strip, Israeli troops surrounded the house of the leader of the Palestinian Hamas movement Yahya Sinwar, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, Trend reports.

He may escape, but we will catch him, its only a matter of time, Netanyahu said.

A combined attack was carried out on Israel on October 7. 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.
ArtRage Gallery will host their annual Fair Trade Holiday Sale this Friday, Dec. 8 from 2-6 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 9 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at ArtRage Gallery, 505 Hawley Ave. in Syracuse. The sale features fair trade certified and ethically sourced products from around the globe.

At this weekends sale you will find handmade baskets and handwoven textiles from Guatemala from the organization Mayan Hands based in Albany, NY. Mayan Hands, founded in 1989, collaborates with 15 artisan groups in the rural Guatemalan highlands, representing about 200 skilled craftswomen. Since their early days, they worked with backstrap loom weavers. Today, products showcase artisan partners wide range of skills: numerous styles of weaving, pine needle basketry, crochet, macrame, needle felting, and embroidery.

Also available will be beautifully hand embroidered and handwoven shoes and sandals from DAVA. DAVA is a project founded in 1979 by the Garcia Garcia family in Oaxaca, Mexico. Their products are made by indigenous Zapotec women. Today, more than 36 families participate in the process of making their shoes. Their fabrics are woven with backstrap or pedal looms, using local cotton or wool. All embroidery and wool dyeing is done by hand. Their leather is tanned using leaves and tree bark, avoiding water pollution. Their goal is to respect Ghech-Liu (Mother Nature) and contribute to the well-being of their communities and the conservation of their traditions.

Also featured will be products from SERRV International, a nonprofit organization based in Wisconsin that began in 1949 by selling handcrafts made by European refugees after the Second World War. Today they work with over 8,000 artisans and farmers from 24 countries worldwide. On sale will be coffee, chocolate, tea, holiday ornaments and decorations.

New this year will be jewelry from Kenya sold by Syracuses All Saints Church LGTBQ Task Force in support of the NGO Nairobi - Break Margins Africa. The NGO provides housing and trade education to young men who have been ostracized from their families for being gay.

The annual Fair Trade Sale started at ArtRage in 2011 during the art exhibition Daughters of Ixchel- Women Weavers of Guatemala The exhibition featured the photography of local artist Mary Lawyer OConnor alongside Huipils, traditionally woven Mayan blouses, and other handmade textiles. The exhibition highlighted some of the beautiful textiles created in women owned worker-owned cooperatives and this inspired ArtRage to make some of this work available for sale to the Syracuse community. Over the years the Fair Trade Sale has featured local vendors selling goods from Ghana, Colombia, India, Turkey and Eswatini.

Admission is free. Light refreshments will be available. More info at artragegallery.org
Verona, N.Y.  Its called the Verona Collective, and for now its likely the largest recreational marijuana business in New York State.

The operation, run by the Oneida Indian Nation, is already growing, harvesting and processing marijuana at a location on Hill Road in Verona, not far from the nations Turning Stone Resort Casino. It started up in August.

The next big step comes on Jan. 3: Thats when the Oneidas will open their first retail marijuana shop, or dispensary, to the public. The shop will be at 5250 Willow Place, across Route 365 from the main entrance to Turning Stone.

It will be the first of several retail marijuana shops the Oneidas plan to open on nation-owned land in Oneida and Madison counties in the near future.

All will sell products like whole flower, pre-rolled joints, vapes, concentrates and edibles like gummies and chocolates. All products will be sourced exclusively from the giant growing and processing facility the Oneidas run on Hill Road. Brand names will include Trim & Proper, CNY Provisions, Humble & Kind and Fair Shake.

Its a totally vertical operation, seed to sale, said Ryan Riggs, vice president of retail for the Oneidas and their business division, called Turning Stone Enterprises. Everything we do starts here.

Customers at the Verona Collective retail dispensary must be 21 and show valid ID. Sales are debit or cash only. Customers may purchase up to 3 ounces of cannabis flower or 24 grams of cannabis concentrate or a mix of both each day. The shop will be open seven days a week.

The Oneidas are now hiring for positions at Verona Collective. (See details below).

The Oneidas entry into the legal marijuana business could provide a major jolt to the cannabis industry in the state. The states own licensing has been beset by lawsuits and other delays.

The Oneidas Verona Collective facility is housed in a newly constructed 50,000-square-foot building. Its has a 25,000-square-foot canopy (the amount of space covered by growing plants.) It features eight grow rooms with a combined 14,000 or so plants.

When its fully operational, by the beginning of January, it should be able to produce 250 pounds of marijuana for use in retail products each week, said George Reppy, operations director at the Hill Road facility.

The states licensed marijuana operations are currently divided into two categories: Those who provide to medical users and those who produce and sell to adult recreational users.

In addition to the Oneidas, several other Indian nations in the state have also entered the cannabis business. For the Oneidas, the operation follows guidelines set out in a 2013 agreement with New York State and local governments that settled land claims and other jurisdictional issues.

Among other things, the Oneidas agreed to set a tax on their retail products, such as cannabis, to avoid creating too great a competitive edge with non-Indian businesses. In this case, taxes the Oneidas collect on cannabis goes to fund its own governmental operations.

Verona Collective is also sending all its products for quality control testing at the same labs used by the states licensed facilities.

The size and scope of the Oneidas operation makes it more comparable to the 11 state-licensed medical marijuana operators, which also can do seed to sale, than to the state recreational operators. The states recreational licensing all but prohibits one entity from being able to both grow cannabis and sell it at retail shops.

The Oneidas, like the medical operators, are also able to grow in lighted indoor facilities. The recreational growers are currently restricted by the state to outdoor fields or greenhouses.

Due to the delays in the state program, there are only 27 retail dispensaries currently selling recreational use marijuana across the state, including a handful that are delivery only. To date, the state has licensed 279 cultivators, and 40 processors (who convert the plant into usable products).

The numbers likely make the Verona Collective the largest recreational producer in the state at the moment, but not quite as large as some of the medical producers, said Allan Gandelman, a Cortland County cannabis grower and president of the Cannabis Association of New York.

The state is prepared to issue licenses for larger growers and processors, but hasnt done so yet, Gandelman said.

So, yes, outside of the medical (operators), the Oneidas are definitely big, very big he said. Sure, its going to be some competition for the (recreational) businesses in the area. But in the grand scheme of things, going forward, it should be fine. I cant blame them for jumping in when they can.

Measured by canopy, some of the medical growers are already at between 50,000 and 100,000 square feet, said Jeremy Unruh, senior vice president for public and regulatory affairs at PharmaCann, an Illinois-based company that is one of New Yorks medical cannabis providers.

So relatively speaking, this Oneida facility is pretty sizable, Unruh said.

The Verona Collective currently has about 50 employees, but is looking to add more, especially as the retail stores open. It has openings in cultivation, processing, packaging and retail positions.

The Oneidas generally offer current Turning Stone Enterprises employees the first chance for new positions, said Joel Barkin, the nations vice president for communications.

Because of this, and because employment at Verona Collective requires an outstanding work history, joining the Turning Stone Enterprises team is the best and fastest way to become a top candidate, he said.

Information sessions for the new positions will be held at 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14; and 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16.

Pre-registration is recommended.

Don Cazentre writes for NYup.com, syracuse.com and The Post-Standard. Reach him at dcazentre@nyup.com, or follow him at NYup.com, on Twitter or Facebook.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Wegmans has told the Rescue Mission to remove its donation centers by next year.

The donation drop-off centers have been at Syracuse-area Wegmans locations for 38 years, said Luana Lovenguth, the chief social enterprise officer for the Rescue Mission. Those locations, combined with two others at Walmarts in Camillus and Auburn, receive about 250,000 donations each year, she said.

Why are they being removed?

Evelyn Ingram, a Wegmans spokesperson, said the change is an effort to establish consistency across all Wegmans locations. The donation drop-off trailers are only in the Central New York stores.

Discussions around removing the donation centers started in the summer, Ingram said. Two donation spots have already closed at the Wegmans on Oswego Road in Clay and in East Syracuse on James Street. A third on Route 31 in Clay is expected to be moved to a nearby Runnings by the end of the year, Lovenguth said.

The Rescue Mission will have about six months to remove its remaining donation centers in Cicero, DeWitt and Clay (Taft Road).

Dan Sieburg, Rescue Mission CEO, said hes already noticed a drop in donations without the centers in Clay and East Syracuse. Donations are down about 30% in November, he said.

That has created a sense of urgency to really find locations quickly, Sieburg said.

The mission has already received calls from new potential locations. Sieburg hopes to have all donation points back up and running by the spring.

Our donations fuel the programs we provide, Sieburg said. In the immediate future, I think were OK. If we can find good locations to move our donations centers to quickly, it might not disrupt anything.

Staff writer Fernando Alba covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, question or comment? Reach him: Email | Twitter or at 315-690-6950.
UPDATE: Matthew Grant was found safe in Pennsylvania on Dec. 13.

* * * * *

Matthew Grant, a student from Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), has been missing since Nov. 20 and police and his family have not stopped searching for him.

The 22-year-old Onaway, Michigan native was last seen leaving Rochester around 10 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 20 without his phone. According to 13 WHAM, Grant told his roommates he was going to meet a friend, but instead went east.

Driving a 2014 gray Jeep Cherokee with Michigan license plate ESR 8141, Grant was last tracked to New York State Thruway Exit 36 near Interstate 81 (Watertown/Binghamton).

An update to the case, the Monroe County Sheriffs Office received surveillance footage from a gas station between Thruway exits 41 (Waterloo) and 39 (Syracuse) the night of Grants disappearance. The Democrat and Chronicle reported that Deputy Brendan Hurley said Grant was walking around inside the gas station convenience store in the video. He appeared to be alone and not in distress.

Grant is described by authorities as being 5-foot-8, and 125 pounds, with brown hair, and brown eyes. He was last observed wearing a green jacket and blue jeans.

Recent online searches on Grants computer pulled up maps of the Adirondacks and the Appalachian Trail, though his father, Mark Grant said his disdain for the cold made those confusing locations for his son to head to.

Mark told News 8 in Rochester he plans to continue searching for his son in the Syracuse region.

In all honesty, I dont know how I can go home again until I know where hes at and what has happened, he said. Im as broken as a person can be, but I refuse to quit.

Grants family has been searching in Ithaca, Oneida area, the Adirondacks, and most recently, Lake Placid.

A statement from RIT was sent to students, thanking them for their support in the search for Matthew. The message also reminded students that while there is a Facebook group dedicated to finding him, any information, regardless of how insignificant it might seem, should be reported directly by calling 911, RIT Public Safety at 585-475-3333 or sending a text to 585-205-8333.
Jeremy Williams, 41, was catfishing on the Susquehanna River near his home in Lounsberry, Tioga County, one summer day in 2022 when he spotted a buck with cartoonishly big antlers on the opposite side of the river.

They made his body look small, Williams recalled. He looked like a young deer.

He nicknamed the buck Big Poppa and installed trail cameras on family property to track his movements. Over a period of weeks Williams got to know Big Poppas patterns.

The cagey 11-pointer spent most of his time hidden deep in a hardwood forest, venturing onto the open river plain twice a day before disappearing back into the trees.

Months later, in the first week of bow season, one of Williams cameras snapped a picture of Big Poppa on a logging road that cut through his familys property. The buck looked straight into the camera lens as if challenging Williams to find him.

He absolutely loved that trail, Williams said. I was like, you know what? Im going to be bold and go in there next morning.

2022 trail camera photos of Big Poppa when he was a nontypical 11-pointer.Jeremy Williams

Buck fever

Williamss boldness paid off. The next morning Big Poppa came down the trail again within 20 yards of Williamss tree stand.

It was a bowhunters dream, said Williams. You couldnt have asked for a better shota perfect broadside shot.

Williams had burned so much mental energy on Big Poppastudying trail camera footage, planning the hunt, picturing that enormous rack hanging on his wallthat seeing the big buck in real life felt something like running into a celebrity at the supermarket.

Hunters call that feeling buck fever.

I probably shook every acorn off the tree I was in, Williams said. I made the worst shot Ive ever made, a complete miss not by inches, but feet.

And that was the last Williams saw of Big Poppa for the remainder of big game season. Last February he found one of Big Poppas shed antlers, which scored a 72 according to Boone and Crockett Club criteria.

Williams didnt feel bad. He grew up hunting and knew that everybody missed shots. Besides, nobody in his family was picky about what they harvested.

More than that, Williams believes in second chances. As a recovering addict who wasted too many years chasing his demons instead of deer, hes grateful just to share the woods with majestic creatures like Big Poppa.

Fighting those demons every day, Williams explained, its an escape from that turmoil that goes on in your brain.

Last February, Jeremy Williams found this shed antler that belonged to Big Poppa. It scored 72 according to Boone & Crockett criteria.Jeremy Williams

Big Poppa returns

Last summer, Williams kept one eye on the opposite riverbank while catfishing the Susquehanna, his other passion.

Big Poppa never materialized. Trail cameras captured him on the logging trail in late August, but all through bow season Williams didnt once lay eyes on him.

He was kind of like a ghost for us this year, Williams said.

Then one October night, a camera caught Big Poppa on the logging trail and Williams felt a case of that old buck fever coming on. He passed on a few decent bucks, hoping to fill his tag with another shot at Big Poppa.

On opening day of gun season, after he got other family members set up in their stands, Williams returned to the same spot where hed missed Big Poppa the year before. He mounted his self-climbing stand and got about ten feet off the ground before stopping to catch his breath.

A twig snapped behind him.

I turn and look and he was 30 yards away, walking right at me, Williams said. I was completely surprised he didnt see me, surprised he didnt smell me, because the wind was blowing right in his face.

For a moment, Williams watched Big Poppa cautiously approach, stopping every ten yards, nose raised to the wind. In Williamss experience, younger bucks will often strut through the woods crunching leaves without a care in the world.

Not Big Poppa.

He was almost like a cat sneaking through the woods, Williams said. Every movement I made, he would stop. I felt like he just knew.

Big Poppa was well within range of Williamss .308-caliber Thompson/Center Encore. The deer, however, was behind him. Williams would have to contort himself to get a shot off. He considered shooting left-handed but decided against it.

Better not miss when youre shooting at the king.

I dont know if I hit him the first time or not, Williams said. But he ran a little ways. I was able to reload the Encore one more time, got another shot off, and he fell.

Close up of Big Poppa's antlers, which received a net 'green' score of 175 6/8 according to Boone and Crockett Club criteria.Jeremy Williams

Trophy buck

Williams reckons Big Poppa was six and half years old based on trail camera footage from his neighbor, whod hunted this deer religiously, Williams said. The buck dressed out at a hefty 220 pounds.

And, oh, that beautiful rack! Twelve points, big spread, long, symmetrical tines. But was Big Poppa a trophy buck?

Gary Dennis, a certified measurer with the New York State Big Buck Club and Boone and Crockett Club, made a special trip to Tioga County to measure Big Poppas antlers (he usually tells hunters to wait 60 days).

Dennis gave Big Poppa a net green score of 175 6/8.

A typical, gun season buck requires a net score of 140 to be listed in the NYS Big Buck Club record book; to get in the Boone and Crockett Club record book a buck needs a minimum score of 160.

Its the second biggest typical Ive ever scored, said Dennis, whos measured trophy bucks for 20 years. Probably in my lifetime there wont be another one that big from there.

Williams is having a mount made of Big Poppa, but the whole thing still doesnt feel quite real to him yet.

Its all thanks to god and sobriety, he said. Once in a lifetime, to be honest. Im probably going to stick to fishing a little more now.

Send us your big game pics!

Send your deer or bear photos to sfeatherstone@syracuse.com. The hunter must in the photo. Also provide your hometown and names of anybody else in the photo, along with location of harvest, method and distance of shot (bow, firearm, etc.), any measurements (weight/points/spread), and any interesting details about the hunt. Happy hunting!



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Baldwinsville hunter feels bad about taking her boyfriends buck - newyorkupstate.com

Upstate NY hunters show off opening day bucks - newyorkupstate.com

Central NY hunter killed on opening day of deer season - newyorkupstate.com

Elbridge teen gets her first buck - newyorkupstate.com

Conservation cops pinch Upstate NY poacher for shooting deer over hood of his car - newyorkupstate.com

Steve Featherstone covers the outdoors for The Post-Standard, syracuse.com and NYUP.com. Contact him at sfeatherstone@syracuse.com or on Twitter @featheroutdoors. You can also follow along with all of our outdoors content at newyorkupstate.com/outdoors/ or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/upstatenyoutdoors.
By Joshua Solomon | Times Union, Albany

Albany, N.Y.  U.S. Rep. Elise Stefaniks goal of raising at least $100 million to bolster Republicans in New York received a $1 million boost from Speaker of the House Mike Johnson during an event at a Manhattan steakhouse over the weekend.

I will be back in New York often to ensure we work to raise the funds necessary to protect and expand our House Republican majority, Johnson said in a statement.

Stefanik, the GOP conference chair, has pieced together a number of fundraising efforts in recent months for New York ahead of next years election. The 11 congressional seats Republicans won in New York last year are widely credited with providing the GOP its narrow majority in the House.

New York will decide the House majority in 2024 and thanks to Speaker Johnsons strong leadership, we will be victorious, Stefanik said in a statement.

The fundraiser, first reported by the New York Post, kicked off efforts for the new Grow the Majority NY joint fundraising committee. It is set up through Johnsons campaign and the American Revival PAC, which is affiliated with the speaker, who is from Louisiana.

Grow the Majority NY is set to distribute its funds to Stefanik and other New York House Republicans, including U.S. Reps. Anthony DEsposito, Andrew R. Garbarino, Nick LaLota, Mike Lawler, Nicole Malliotakis, Marc Molinaro, Brandon Williams, Nick Langworthy and Claudia Tenney.

The joint fundraising committee, according to federal filings, is also signed up to support the NY Republican Federal Campaign Committee and the Grow the Majority Nominee Fund: NY-18. The 18th Congressional District is the lone battleground district held by a Democrat in New York  U.S. Rep. Pat Ryan.

Notably absent from the committee, which was set up on Nov. 27, is specific fund sharing for the 3rd Congressional District, which was represented by former Republican U.S. Rep. George Santos  who was expelled from Congress on Friday.

While Stefanik voted against removing Santos from Congress, she has said she would not support his re-election campaign had he mounted one.

Stefanik has faith in Nassau County Republican Party Chairman Joseph G. Cairo Jr. in selecting who will run for Santos seat in an upcoming special election, according to a source familiar with the matter. It remains unclear who the nominee will be; Democrats have indicated they expect to nominate former U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi, who chose not to run for reelection in the district last year when he instead launched an unsuccessful primary gubernatorial campaign against Gov. Kathy Hochul.

Any funds to assist a Republican candidate for the special election to serve out Santos term, and also for the general election next year, would likely be directed by the National Republican Congressional Committee.

Overall, Stefanik has pledged $100 million toward re-election efforts, expecting to at least match similar spending by Democrats. Federal campaign finance records reflect very little money toward the goal in the House GOP Battleground Fund account, $265,000 this year, through September. The Grow Majority NY Fund has not yet had to report money it has collected to the Federal Election Commission. Details on how much money those funds have collected should become clearer early next year.

In the backdrop of the fundraising efforts, there is ongoing uncertainty on what the states congressional boundary lines will be and whether any voter in New York will be able to cast their ballot by mail. Both of those outcomes, which are the subject of ongoing litigation, could have outsized effects on the nature of the campaigns and which races are viewed as particularly competitive.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is challenging the current political boundaries; a decision from the state Court of Appeals is expected later this month. Stefanik is suing Hochul over a law she recently signed to allow for no-excuse voting by mail, two years after voters rejected a similar proposition on a statewide ballot.

___

(c)2023 the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.)

Visit the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) at www.timesunion.com
The exhibition presenting the prize-winning timepieces in the 2023 edition of the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Geneve (GPHG) opened yesterday at the Kunsthaus Zurich

The exhibition, which offers an insight into the captivating world of contemporary watchmaking and celebrates its excellence, is open to the public over the weekend of 2 and 3 December, from 10am to 6pm.

After a stopover at Dubai Watch Week, an unmissably warm and friendly exhibition that attracted more than 23,000 visitors and 60 watch brands this year, the award-winning timepieces from the 2023 edition made their way to the Auditorium of Zurich's Kunsthaus. Their presentation echoes the Time. From Durer to Bonvicini exhibition on display at the Kunsthaus since September 2023 and features a transdisciplinary approach to the theme of Time.

The GPHG exhibition offers all watch lovers a unique opportunity to discover, on their own or with the help of a watchmaking expert, the 18 prize-winning timepieces  16 watches and two clocks  awarded by the GPHG 2023 Academy and Jury, in an original scenography free of protective-glass display cases.

This third stopover in Zurich since the Foundations creation in 2021 testifies to the GPHGs wish to promote the art of watchmaking worldwide as well as in Switzerland.


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Richard Milles ambassador and first mountaineer

1. Making history

A rising star in French mountaineering, Charles Dubouloz is blazing new trails in the history of the sport with each of his feats. In January 2022, the mountain guide achieved a first that defied belief with a solo winter ascent of the Rolling Stones route on the north face of the Grandes Jorasses in the Mont-Blanc Massif. This crazy six-day expedition at -20C earned him such recognition that he has since devoted himself to his passion.

2. Fear is his driving force

As he freely admits: The day I stop being scared is the day I stop climbing!, because it is adrenalin that connects him intensely to the present. A virtuoso of the peaks, Charles Dubouloz climbs with his guts, defying the steepest and most dangerous faces. In his quest to excel, he aims to take on new summits in Pakistan, as well as the Alps trilogy in France. The RM 67-02 Extra-Thin Automatic on his wrist will keep track of these intense moments, a watch born of extreme watchmaking that is all about creativity and high performance  just like its wearer!

3. Larger than life passion

Why such an irresistible passion for the mountains? This vast territory offers a field of expression commensurate with my boundless energy, explains the young 30-something from Annecy. A reality that explains his (not so) surprising sense of kinship with another member of the Richard Mille family, freediver Arnaud Jerald, with whom he feels vertically aligned, each at the opposite end of the spectrum, in osmosis with the elements in their purest state.

As a WorldTempus reader, we are delighted to offer you the digital version of this GMT Magazine, as well as the official catalog of the GPHG, that you can download here.
A highway safety group released a report Tuesday urging communities to deploy automated enforcement programs using traffic cameras.

The report by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) maintained that such programs are needed to address the ever-increasing number of roadway fatalities. Over the last decade, traffic deaths have increased 30%, to 42,795 in 2022 from 32,893 in 2013, it noted.

Were losing far too many of our friends and loved ones to preventable traffic crashes, GHSA Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Adkins said in a statement.

Safety cameras can help change that, he continued. The data and research clearly show that automated enforcement reduces the dangerous driving behaviors that needlessly kill people every day.

The report, which was prepared with funding from insurer State Farm, explained that technology has been used to improve safety in the past, such as the use of airbags to reduce the severity of injuries in crashes, alcohol breathalyzers to help police detect and remove impaired drivers from the road and radar speed displays to give drivers instant feedback on how fast they are going, encouraging them to slow down.

Now, a new generation of technological advances is available to safety and enforcement professionals, the report continued. GHSA believes the expanded use of automated enforcement is essential for roadways.

Funding Gate Opened

The fatality numbers are higher than theyve been in many, many years, GHSA Senior Director of External Engagement Pam Fischer told TechNewsWorld.

We need to use as many resources as we possibly can to address the problem, she continued. Things like speeding, red-light running, and aggressive driving are all preventable, and we know this technology is a viable solution to address these problems.

For many years, funding traffic cam systems could be challenging for municipalities because they couldnt use federal highway money to do it. It was prohibited by law.

That changed with President Bidens Build America Buy America Act, which lifted the ban and allowed up to 10% of the $15.6 billion allocated for highway safety programs over five years to be used for specific non-infrastructure programs, including purchasing, operating, or maintaining automated traffic enforcement systems in work zones or school zones.

The highway safety offices now have the ability, through federal funding, to support these programs, Fischer said. They can help communities leverage this technology if it makes sense.

Behavior Changer

Fischer added that with traffic fatalities increasing, it became apparent that the states needed to leverage traffic cam technology.

There was a recognition among elected officials in Washington that we needed to start looking at things differently and recognize theres a plethora of research done by the Institute for Highway Safety and other groups showing that this technology does help change behavior, she said.

Many people get a traffic ticket through an automated enforcement program, and they dont get another one because they learned their lesson, she explained. Its a very effective countermeasure.

Automated enforcement programs can be controversial, raising issues about privacy and targeting disadvantaged populations.

Any camera poses a privacy concern, said Rob Enderle, president and principal analyst with the Enderle Group, an advisory services firm in Bend, Ore.

The benefit  which is tied to lower cost for enforcement and potentially safer roads  has to exceed these concerns, he told TechNewsWorld.

Not About Invading Privacy

The report pointed out that, according to the legal community, automated enforcement does not violate a citizens legal right to privacy.

It added that it is vital to the success of any program to address this issue upfront and make very clear what the public is gaining in return in terms of public safety.

This technology is not about invading your privacy, Fischer said. Its about making sure everyone using the roadway system, driving vehicles, is doing so in a manner thats safe, not only for ourselves but for everybody else.

Driving is a public activity, and we need to hold ourselves to the standards established by our traffic safety laws so we are not hurting other people, she added. If we all did that, then we wouldnt need this technology.

Targeting low-income populations has been a criticism leveled at traffic cam systems and has forced some cities to scrap their systems.

ProPublica reported that Rochester, N.Y. eliminated its red-light camera program in 2016, in part because motorists from low-income neighborhoods received the most tickets and the financial harm outweighed any safety benefits, while Miami ended its program in 2017 amid complaints from low-income residents who felt unfairly burdened by the fines.

More or Less Equality?

Reducing crashes and making city streets safer is a worthwhile goal, but there are other ways to do it that dont sacrifice privacy or risk punishing disadvantaged communities that are already subject to more policing and have seen their roads and other infrastructure neglected, maintained Josh Richman, media relations director for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, an international non-profit digital rights group based in San Francisco.

Cities and states could instead implement traffic-calming road modifications to get drivers to slow down, he told TechNewsWorld. If the goal is better safety, surveillance  which invades everyones privacy whether or not theyre obeying the rules of the road  is not necessarily the right fix.

However, the report noted that traffic cams have the potential to create a more equitable system.

Automated enforcement allows jurisdictions to use camera technology to enforce traffic laws as a racially neutral, unbiased, and contact-free alternative while simultaneously regaining trust within communities, the report maintained.

Does it matter whether you are a poor person or a rich person if you are speeding? asked Wes Guckert, president and CEO of The Traffic Group, a traffic engineering and transportation planning specialty firm in Baltimore.

Either way, you are creating opportunities for accidents and potentially hurting someone else, Guckert told TechNewsWorld. It doesnt matter whether youre rich or poor; if you are driving in an unsafe manner, you should be ticketed.

Effectiveness and Equity

The report stated that the unprecedented rise in traffic fatalities requires new roadway safety approaches.

Police officers cannot be present on every roadway or address all traffic violations that occur, it continued. Automated enforcement affords states the ability to augment traditional enforcement efforts with proven technology that can prevent severe injuries and save lives.

In addition, it added, AE can help advance equitable enforcement and be integrated into a states meaningful community engagement efforts.
The famous American actress Shannen Doherty, who suffers from the fourth stage of breast cancer, spoke for the first time about perhaps the most difficult period of her life. She was preparing to have a tumor removed from her brain when she suddenly found out about her husband's infidelity. The photographer Kurt Iswarienko left the star of the cult TV series "All Women Are Witches" and "Beverly Hills, 90210" after 11 years of marriage just before the surgery.

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The actress spoke about her emotional state and suffering in this regard in the first episode of her podcast Let's Be Clear with Shannen Doherty. People writes about it.

As you know, Doherty filed for divorce in April of this year and underwent brain surgery in January.

In the podcast, she said that before the serious brain surgery, Kurt told her that he had been having an affair with another woman for the past two years. At the same time, he wanted to go to the hospital with his then-wife to support her. However, Doherty felt so depressed that she did not allow it.

"I went for this surgery early in the morning and came in after I found out that my marriage had essentially broken down, that my husband had been having an affair for two years. He was not going to the surgery, although, to be absolutely clear, he wanted to go, I could not go to the surgery with him. I felt so betrayed. I felt completely unloved by the person I had been with for 14 years, the person I loved with all my heart," the movie star said.

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Fortunately, her mother, brother and close friends were there for her. They supported Doherty throughout her hospitalization and beyond.

However, her lover's betrayal literally broke the cancer patient. She became "obsessed" with the idea of finding out the truth about her husband's mistress. Moreover, in the end, Doherty even met this woman.

"If you've been together for 14 years and cheated, doesn't that person deserve the absolute truth, no matter how much it hurts them? I am terrified that I cannot save the relationship. I have failed in marriage three times, but I still believe in love. I also take some responsibility for the breakdown of our marriage - which is not true. Let me rephrase: I don't take responsibility for the breakdown of our marriage, I take responsibility for some of the problems in our marriage. I take responsibility not only because of who I was, but because of how cancer affected my marriage and how it affected it a second time," Doherty commented.

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It should be noted that in 2015, the actress was first diagnosed with breast cancer, after which she underwent a mastectomy (surgical removal of the mammary glands - ed.), chemotherapy and radiation. In 2017, the celebrity announced that she was in remission, and two years later, the cancer returned. Shannen Doherty said that she suffers from stage 4 metastatic cancer.

From 1993 to 1994, the actress was also married to Ashley Hamilton, and in 2002-2003 - to Rick Salomon.

As OBOZ.UA wrote, Shannen Doherty recently admitted that she was getting worse. Now the metastases have spread to the star's bones. Read about the actress's condition in the article.

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Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
Serving the tech enthusiast community for over 25 years.TechSpot means tech analysis and advice you can trust . Read our ethics statement

The big picture: Gmail's latest update introduces AI-powered spam detection to protect users from unsolicited junk mail. This upgrade not only enhances user security, but also significantly improves the spam detection rate according to the search giant.

The world's most popular email service has rolled out what might be its most significant update in years. Aimed at outwitting spammers through advanced AI, Gmail now features a new text classification system called RETVec (Resilient & Efficient Text Vectorizer).

This new spam detection technology is a step forward in the fight against adversarial text manipulations, which is a common tactic used by spammers to bypass traditional filters. Spammers have long exploited the limitations of filters by using special characters, emojis, and other deceptive techniques to make their emails appear legitimate while evading detection.

These manipulations often include homoglyphs, which are characters resembling standard alphabet letters. But these are, in fact, a lot different, which makes it challenging for conventional filters to recognize them as spam. Developed by Google, RETVec addresses this challenge head-on. It's a machine-learning model that uses visual similarity rather than relying solely on character recognition.

The new approach allows Gmail to understand and filter out emails that employ deceptive tactics, significantly improving its ability to block spam and phishing attempts. Google has been pioneering AI in email for some time, which was kicked off by an AI feature that helped write emails all the way back in 2018.

According to Google, introducing RETVec has improved spam detection rates by 38% and dropped the false positives by nearly 20%. So, users are less likely to see spam in their inboxes, making it less likely they'll miss important, legitimate emails that are mistakenly marked as spam.

RETVec's lightweight word embedding model, made up of 200,000 parameters, lets you reduce the size of the Transformer model without compromising performance. This efficiency is crucial for applications on mobile and web-based devices.

Gmail's spam filtering efforts goes back years, as it began blocking an extra 100 million daily spam emails in 2019 using TensorFlow. With RETVec, Google hopes to set a new benchmark in email security.
In a nutshell: India recently passed regulations requiring USB-C charging ports for smartphones sold in the country by June 2025. Apple reportedly told New Delhi officials that the new rules would severely impact production goals and asked officials to delay the deadline or exempt older iPhones from the requirement.

Apple has iPhone assembly facilities in India to supply local sales and exports. Currently, it sells units going back to the iPhone 12. The only device fitted with USB-C is the iPhone 15, and it promised all future iPhones would have universal charging ports. However, retrofitting all models sold in India would be costly and time-consuming, although it did not provide estimates.

Reuters notes that Apple told India's IT ministry in a closed-door meeting that it cannot change past designs by the deadline. If regulators do not back down, the company will fail to meet production quotas set under India's production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme. The PLI is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's plan to expand manufacturing and sales of smartphones in the country.

According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, 12-14 percent of 2023 iPhone production is from India. Counterpoint Research said iPhone growth in the country exceeded 32 percent in 2023. Although Apple's smartphone market share in India is only six percent, that's up from two percent just four years ago.

It would seem that Apple holds all the cards in the negotiation. Despite its small piece of the market pie, India's PLI plans to rely on continued iPhone sales. Indian buying trends show consumers prefer purchasing lower-priced but older phones over the latest and greatest. So if regulators don't cut Cupertino some slack, it may discontinue sales on iPhones 12, 13, and 14, upsetting the market.

However, it probably won't come to that. Everybody wants a win-win outcome, so regulators are likely to concede within reason, and there is no indication Apple is being unreasonable since it asked for the same thing in Europe.

The EU's deadline for phones to have universal charging is December 2024  six months before India's. Apple has already told European regulators that it can meet their deadline if older iPhones are exempt. Otherwise, it said it needs at least 18 months to comply. So, it's likely asking India for the same exemption or a 12-month delay.
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In a nutshell: Microsoft wants to move as many users as possible onto Windows 11. The operating system didn't gain steam as quickly as Windows 10, but the older edition is approaching official end-of-life status. After next year, those wishing for further security updates must pay.

Microsoft announced that users and businesses can continue receiving critical security updates for Windows 10 after its official support ends in October 2025. Like Windows 7, the company will offer an annual subscription for three years of patches following the official sunset date.

Enrollees will receive monthly updates to close vulnerabilities but will not obtain new features. Microsoft previously confirmed that 22H2, released last year, is the final feature update to Windows 10. Pricing and availability details for the subscription are still to come. Enterprise IoT systems will continue receiving updates on a longer alternate timeline.

The company mentioned the upcoming subscription at the end of a blog post explaining different methods for migrating to Windows 11. Aside from the free updates available to many Windows 10 systems, Microsoft also suggested buying new Windows 11-capable devices in a likely ploy to spur PC sales, which have begun to recover after a dry spell lasting multiple quarters.

The company also pushed its cloud and subscription services like Windows 365 to facilitate migrations. Microsoft will roll the Windows 10 extended support subscription into 365 when users connect to Windows 11 cloud PCs, and Windows 10 Azure Virtual Desktop users receive the patches for free.

Users wishing to avoid subscriptions or continue using Windows 10 longer must rely on third-party groups like 0patch to keep their systems secure. 0patch continues to release updates for Windows 7, Server 2008, and Server 2012, so it will likely support Windows 10 for years.

Despite having less than a year of official support left, Windows 10 remains highly popular. The latest OS usage snapshot from Steam's November 2023 hardware and software survey suggests that over half of systems still run Windows 10. Its successor is gaining popularity, but not nearly as quickly as Windows 10 replaced Windows 7.

Meanwhile, previous rumors suggest Windows 12 could emerge around June next year. Companies like Intel and Quanta have expressed optimism that the next version of Windows could boost the client-side and AI markets.
Why it matters: The revenue share figures for data center processors present a clear picture. Nvidia has experienced robust growth for years and currently leads the market. The primary question now is: what is the new normal for their market share?

A week ago, we came across a chart from HPC Guru on Twitter that was so striking we had to make our own version to really believe it. No slight to HPC Guru, it's just that the numbers were eye-opening, and in the end our numbers matched theirs.

Editor's Note:

Guest author Jonathan Goldberg is the founder of D2D Advisory, a multi-functional consulting firm. Jonathan has developed growth strategies and alliances for companies in the mobile, networking, gaming, and software industries.

The chart below shows data center processor revenue market share by quarter going back to 2Q19. It shows the collapse of Intel and the incredible rise of Nvidia. And of course, what really stands out in all of this is just the scale of Nvidia's surge. In the latest quarter, they claimed 73% market share. We knew they were doing well, but as they say, a picture is worth 1,000 words, or $14 billion a quarter.

Data Center Revenue Share  AMD, Intel and Nvidia

In the replies to that thread, Ian Cutress asked the reasonable question as to how much the whole data center market has grown in that time. The answer is that the market grew at a 30% CAGR (compound annual growth rate) over this period  Intel shrank at a 6% rate, AMD grew by 27%, and Nvidia grew at 103% a year.

Also clear from this data is that Nvidia's truly spectacular growth came in the last year since the unveiling of ChatGPT wowed the world. But if we strip out those last 12 months, they were already growing at a 67% CAGR.

We tried plotting this as a common size graph with 2Q19 set to 100, this is a handy way to compare growth rates.

Common Size Growth in Data Center Revenue

But Nvidia's growth is so strong that it drowns out the signal from all the others. So we plotted it again, without Nvidia. This time, we added TSMC to the mix as another proxy for the growth of the market.

Common Size Growth in Data Center Revenue ex-Nvidia

For those interested in recreating their own charts, this is the raw data. Our source for the data are company presentations, quarterly reports and SEC filings. We looked at Data Center segment revenue, but during this period, both Intel and AMD reclassified how they segment their data, so the early quarters are a bit different than the more recent quarters.

For TSMC we used their "HPC" segment reports, which they only began breaking out in 2Q19 which is where we start the series. Finally, it is worth keeping in mind that all of these segments include more than just CPUs and GPUs, as each company defines the segment a bit differently. This probably means that Intel's early revenue is inflated as it included networking, memory and a bunch of other products. So their decline is not quite as steep as it may appear. That all being said, the overall trend is still very clear.

We can draw two important conclusions from this. First, after years of effort and some serious share gains, AMD is still a distant third in this market with less than 10% share. They are still half of Intel's size, which is not a surprise, but stands out starkly in the light of Nvidia's rise.

The second, more important conclusion, is that this market is now permanently changed. Again, this is one of those things that everyone knows, but not everyone realizes. It is unlikely that Nvidia can retain 70% of wallet forever, but by the same token Intel had 90% share for over a decade. As much as we talk about the rise of heterogeneous compute, we are now entering a period where Nvidia is the common factor in the data center.

As much as the tech world is excited about the bold future of AI, another way to understand the rise of Large Language Models (LLMs) and AI in general is that the market is undergoing one of its periodic shifts. Just as the rise of Linux and Intel in the data center in the 1990s heralded a seismic shift in the market to a new paradigm of computing which today we call the cloud, the rise of LLMs seems to mark the rise of a new compute paradigm based on Nvidia silicon.

The question for the foreseeable future is not "Can Intel reclaim its data center crown?" (it cannot), instead the question is just how dominant will Nvidia be? Can they maintain a 70% share? (probably not), or is 50% the long term status quo? (very possibly).
In context: Android is often accused of being prone to various security vulnerabilities that could affect user privacy. While Google has taken numerous steps to make the OS safer, problems keep cropping up every now and then. This week, Google said it discovered a critical security vulnerability that could allow zero-click remote code execution (RCE).

Tracked as CVE-2023-40088, the flaw was found in Android's System component and is rated by Google as 'Critical' severity. According to the National Vulnerability Database, the problem arises during a callback_thread_event of com_android_bluetooth_btservice_AdapterService.cpp, when memory could be corrupted due to a use-after-free. This could lead to remote code execution with no additional privileges and without any user interaction.

There's no word on whether the bug has already been exploited in the wild, but Google says it has issued a patch to fix the problem as part of the December 2023 security bulletin. According to the release notes, the fix is compatible only with newer Android versions, ranging from Android 11 to Android 14.

It is worth noting here that Google issuing a patch is only the first step towards securing end users, as each vendor or carrier still has to roll out its own update to fix the bug. Therefore, unless you're using a Pixel, you may have to wait several weeks for the update, and some devices may never receive it.

In addition to the aforementioned bug, Google fixed 84 more security vulnerabilities as part of the December update. Three of these are rated as 'Critical,' while the rest are listed as 'High' severity. Several other vulnerabilities affect Qualcomm closed-source components and are described in detail in the latest Qualcomm security bulletin. One of these vulnerabilities is listed as 'Critical,' while the rest as rated as 'High.'

With security becoming an increasingly thorny issue for Android users, Google says it is working on new ways to boost the security of its mobile OS. First off, the company is introducing compiler-based sanitizers to catch memory safety issues early on in the software development process. Next, it is working with hardware partners to add memory safety features at the firmware level. Finally, the company is implementing various measures to make it harder for hackers to exploit unknown bugs.
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Forward-looking: Fiber optic cables are the backbone of modern internet-based communications, moving zettabytes of data per year from every corner of the digital world. Fiber optic technology must therefore evolve at an accelerated pace, as data traffic demands are only increasing, never subsiding.

An international team of researchers from the Japanese National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), Eindhoven University of Technology, and the University of L'Aquila has achieved a new, unprecedented transmission capacity over a single fiber optic cable. The scientists were able to transfer 22.9 petabits per second (or 22,900 terabits/s), combining different technologies to double the previous world record of 10.66 petabits per second.

Fiber optic cable must cope with the ever-increasing data traffic demands coming from companies and internet users, the researchers explained, employing advanced data transfer solutions such as multiplexing technologies using space and wavelength. The former uses "advanced" optical fibers containing multiple optical paths (or channels) within a common cladding, NICT said, while the latter enhances the total transmission capacity by increasing bandwidth with many independent Wavelength Division Multiplexed (WDM) data channels.

The Japanese researchers were able to realize Space Division Multiplexing (SDM) with over 100 spatial channels, building a 38-core, three-mode cable where each core can transfer between 0.3 and 0.7 Pb/s. The total transmission capacity of the new fiber optic cable was 22.9 Pb/s, but the result also includes an overhead for additional error correction capabilities.

With better-optimized coding, transfer rate levels of up to 24.7 Pb/s could be achieved. That's more than 1,000 times the data rate available through currently deployed optical fiber communication systems, the researchers explained.

Before entering the market, the new transfer technology would need a further improvement to the telecommunication infrastructure dealing with fiber optic tech. Ultra-large-capacity fibers will be required for future internet comms, NICT said, as the data traffic demand is expected to increase by three orders of magnitude, or 1,000 times.

The new international study provides the first practical, successful demonstration for the combination of multi-band WDM and SDM employing a multicore multimode fiber. This kind of technology will be a key advancement for future fiber optic-based networks. The paper was accepted as a post-deadline presentation during the 49th European Conference on Optical Communication recently held in Glasgow.
In a move to establish European tech independence and challenge the dominance of US-based tech giants, the European Commission has recently approved a monumental 1.2 billion state aid package for a groundbreaking cloud computing initiative, Reuters reports.

Initiative and Funding

Termed the IPCEI Next Generation Cloud Infrastructure and Services (IPCEI CIS), this initiative marks a concerted effort by seven European Union statesFrance, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and Spainto pool resources and expertise.

This collaboration aims not just to provide substantial public funding but also to unlock an additional 1.4 billion in private investments, magnifying the project's impact.

At its core, the IPCEI CIS seeks to pioneer an open, interoperable European data processing ecosystem, reshaping the way businesses and citizens interact with data.

The consortium, comprising 19 companies, including major players like Atos, Orange, Deutsche Telekom, SAP, Telecom Italia, and Telefonica Espana, is geared to develop cutting-edge software enabling real-time, low-latency services closer to users, reducing reliance on centralized cloud servers.

European Commission's Stamp of Approval

Forecasts predict the creation of approximately 1,000 high-skilled jobs in the initial phases, with expectations of exponential growth during commercialization. The first significant outcomes are anticipated by the end of 2027, signifying a pivotal moment in Europe's digital evolution.

The European Commission's endorsement underscores the project's alignment with pivotal EU objectives-bolstering a digital, greener, secure, resilient, and sovereign economy.

It acknowledges the substantial risks involved and justifies the need for public support, ensuring measures to prevent distortion of competition.

Notably, the IPCEI CIS promises far-reaching benefits, extending beyond participating companies to non-participants, competitors, and end-users across Europe.

Read Also: Getty Images vs. Stability AI: UK Court Greenlights Trial Amid Copyright Dispute Over AI Training Materials

Structured Collaboration

The project's structure involves a collaborative effort between 19 direct participants and over 90 indirect partners spread across additional EU Member States.

This monumental initiative aligns with the Commission's wider vision for a digitally resilient Europe, positioning it as the seventh integrated IPCEI approved under EU State aid rules. Its significance extends beyond technological advancement, catalyzing Europe's tech sovereignty.

In light of this green light from the EU, Commissioner Didier Reynders emphasized the project's ambitious goals, funding strategies, and expected positive outcomes.

"The IPCEI will provide for highly ambitious research, necessary to enable the uptake of innovative data processing applications and services for European businesses, public administrations, and citizens," Reynders noted.

Commissioner Thierry Breton highlighted its pivotal role in meeting Digital Decade Strategy 2030 objectives. "[The project] will also provide the technologies and solutions to reach our Digital Decade Strategy 2030 objectives: a 75% of cloud uptake by EU enterprises and more than 10.000 edge nodes across Europe. With this IPCEI, Europe will reinforce its innovation leadership in next-generation data processing services," Breton said.

Since 2018, the Commission has approved six IPCEIs in the fields of batteries, hydrogen, microelectronics, and communication technologies.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.

Related Article: UK Approves AI Age Checks to Prevent Children From Accessing Porn Sites

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Trevor Daniel Jacob, a 30-year-old influencer, has been sentenced to six months in federal prison for orchestrating a staged plane crash in California.

The sentencing is a result of Jacob obstructing the investigation by destroying debris from the plane crash that occurred on November 24, 2021.

YouTuber Staged Plane Crash

According to The Guardian, Jacob pleaded guilty in June to one count of destruction and concealment with the intent to obstruct a federal investigation. The charges stemmed from his YouTube video titled "I Crashed My Airplane," posted in December 2021.

The video purported to capture Jacob experiencing engine failure in his small plane over the mountainous Los Padres National Forest in Santa Barbara County. The stunt involved Jacob parachuting to safety with a selfie stick camera in hand.

Related Article: YouTuber Pretends to be a Nintendo Insider For a While | What's the Story Behind Waddle Dee's Fake Account?

Planned Stunt For Product Promotion

According to the plea agreement, Jacob's staged plane crash was not an unfortunate incident but rather a planned stunt. He had a sponsorship deal to promote a company's product in the video, revealing that the flight was never intended to be completed.

The Justice Department said that Jacob's deceptive actions attempt to mislead federal investigators about the crash.

Evidence Destruction and False Statements

When Jacob initially informed federal investigators about the crash, he was entrusted with preserving the wreckage. However, instead of telling the truth about the staged accident, he just lied about the location. This made the investigators believe that he was not willing to comply with the responsibility, per Fox News.

"In fact, on December 10, 2021, Jacob and a friend flew by helicopter to the wreckage site. There, Jacob used straps to secure the wreckage, which the helicopter lifted and carried to Rancho Sisquoc in Santa Barbara County, where it was loaded onto a trailer attached to Jacob's pickup truck," the US District Attorney's Office for the Central District of California said Monday, Dec. 4 via South China Morning Post.

The plane's parts were eventually cut up and discarded in trash bins.

YouTuber's Pilot License Revoked

Despite being an experienced pilot and skydiver, Jacob faced severe consequences beyond imprisonment. His pilot license was revoked by the Federal Aviation Administration in 2022.

This legal outcome serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the repercussions influencers may face when their stunts cross legal and ethical boundaries.

Jacob's case shows that being an online influencer is a responsibility. Doing everything for your viewers comes at a cost-whether it's good or bad. The importance of responsible content creation and the serious consequences should be taken into account.

There's nothing wrong with watching your favorite content creators on YouTube or any other platforms, but make sure that you consume their digital content wisely. Do not follow those who condone deceptive actions just for their gain.

Read Also: Philippines Lottery Facebook Page Hacked, Spammed with Nude Photos: Cybercrime Unit Starts Investigation

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Meta Platforms and International Business Machines (IBM) have jointly unveiled the AI Alliance, a coalition comprised of over 50 artificial intelligence companies and research institutions.

The AI alliance aims to promote an "open innovation and open science" model within the AI sector, featuring key contributors like Intel, Oracle, Cornell University, and the National Science Foundation.



Dario Gil, IBM's Senior Vice President and Director of IBM Research disclosed that the formation of the AI Alliance stemmed from dissatisfaction with the perceived lack of diversity in recent AI discussions. The alliance emphasizes an open-source approach, aligning with the historical collaboration among major tech firms, academic institutions, and independent programmers.



The spotlight on generative AI, particularly since the introduction of OpenAI's ChatGPT a year ago, has intensified the narrative. OpenAI and counterparts like Anthropic and Cohere have been at the forefront of developing proprietary AI systems, whereas the AI Alliance's members, including industry players such as Intel and Oracle, are striving to carve out a space in the rapidly expanding AI market.

IBM, despite past challenges with its Watson system, is introducing the Watsonx system as a novel platform. Meta, while endeavoring to bolster its presence in the AI market, is advocating for its Llama 2 AI model as an open-source AI system.

"This other way, it's a much more distributed approach, but much more resilient, because no given institution can derail the success of the open engine," Gil said, as quoted by The Wall Street Journal.

Mitigating Risks

Against the backdrop of disruptions at OpenAI in November, businesses are increasingly exploring alternative AI providers to mitigate the risks associated with relying on a single vendor. The AI Alliance serves as a collaborative platform for organizations navigating this shift.

Read Also: UFC's Dana White Joins Elon Musk in Defying Advertisers' Attempts at Control

The alliance's formation underscores the intensifying debate on the merits and risks associated with adopting an open-source approach to AI development.

Yann LeCun, Meta's Chief AI Scientist, has critiqued major players, including OpenAI, Google, and Anthropic, for perceived lobbying efforts favoring rules that could consolidate power over AI development, per AP News.

In response, the Frontier Model Forum, comprising Meta, Microsoft, Google, and Anthropic, has been established to address industry concerns.

The Center for Humane Technology, a vocal critic of Meta's social media practices, has emphasized the potential risks tied to open-source or leaked AI models. This ongoing debate raises critical questions about the responsible deployment of AI models to the public.

AI Alliance Open for More Players

IBM's role in the AI Alliance prompts inquiries into its motivations as a co-founder alongside Meta. Despite increased earnings from generative AI, IBM faces stiff competition from Microsoft and OpenAI in the enterprise-focused AI services sector.

Notable exclusions from the AI Alliance's initial membership, such as Stanford, and MIT, and AI startups like Anthropic, Cohere, and Adept, have raised queries. IBM's response suggests a focus on organizations strongly committed to open innovation, leaving room for potential additions to the alliance.

Sriram Raghavan, VP of IBM's research AI division, has stated that the AI Alliance's current focus centers on members strongly committed to open innovation and open-source AI. Anticipating further evolution, he envisions more organizations joining in the future, as reported by TechCrunch.

Related Article: How AI Is Shaping Australia's Job Landscape and Going Unnoticed

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The US Navy has revealed an innovative strategy, highlighting the critical role of "non-kinetic effects" in future warfare. In this inaugural cyber strategy, the Navy anticipates the use of unseen disruptive actions as decisive in determining battlefield outcomes.

The 14-page document outlines potential non-kinetic effects such as jammed electronics, compromised networks, and manipulated information, impacting military and civilian domains.

The strategy aims to offer a comprehensive vision of the battle environment, fostering internal accountability and external persuasion.

US Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro, leveraging insights from global cyber operations, emphasizes the need for the Navy and Marine Corps to boost its online strategy.

"Alongside the physical domains, the Navy and Marine Corps must compete in cyberspace, defending American interests, enabling maritime dominance, and supporting integrated deterrence," Del Toro stated, as quoted by C4ISRNet.

Growing Threats

As emerging threats from Russia and China evolve, the Department of Defense repositions itself, moving away from decades of focus on the Greater Middle East. Moscow and Beijing possess formidable online arsenals, prompting close monitoring of cyber capabilities, particularly as Russia engages in conflict with Ukraine and China poses threats to Taiwan.

Navy Secretary Del Toro, along with former Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Michael Gilday, had previously hinted at this strategic shift.

Del Toro, in April, committed to enhancing cyber force readiness and expanding the integration of non-kinetic effects. Gilday envisions maritime waters populated with uncrewed vessels capable of spoofing, spying, and assisting in combat.

The Navy Cyber Strategy aligns with and references the Cyberspace Superiority Vision, endorsing the ability to "fight hurt" alongside the principles of "secure, survive, strike."

The strategy underscores the importance of resiliency, as reflected in the Navy's fiscal 2024 budget request, which allocates significant funds for cyber, network, and information warfare development.

Chris Cleary, the Navy's former principal cyber adviser, emphasizes the Department of Defense's commitment to engaging adversaries in cyberspace.

Cleary underscores the significance of non-kinetic capabilities, aiming to make adversaries uneasy about cyber threats, paralleling traditional kinetic capabilities.

Read Also: Tech Times Presents Twitter Space #2: GenAI Investments & Startup Possibilities

US Navy Investing in Smart Weaponry

In a parallel development, Raytheon, an RTX business, recently introduced its StormBreaker smart weapon to the US Navy's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet in November.

Originally deployed on the F-15E and undergoing integration testing on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, the technology showcases the efficacy of digital solutions in bolstering air dominance.

The streamlined integration process used by Raytheon, which takes into account F-15E deployment insights, reduces the number of flight tests necessary, saving time and resources. StormBreaker's capabilities, designed for striking targets in challenging scenarios, enhance operational effectiveness.

Naval Technology reported in November that Raytheon Technologies previously secured a $320 million contract for the production and delivery of 1,500 StormBreaker smart weapon systems for the US Air Force, highlighting the ongoing relevance of fourth-generation aircraft.

In another recent development, the US Navy has successfully fired "lethal munitions" from an unmanned vessel in international waters in the Middle East. The Navy's Task Force 59, which specializes in unmanned and artificial intelligence operations, conducted the exercise under the name Digital Talon.

According to CBS News, using "manned-unmanned teaming," the task force targeted simulated hostile forces on October 23, launching live munitions from an unmanned vessel to destroy a target boat. A human operator on shore oversaw the operation, which successfully demonstrated the ability to make engagement decisions remotely by landing direct hits each time.

The US Navy aims to strengthen maritime security and enhance deterrence against malign activities in the region through advancements in unmanned systems and artificial intelligence technologies.

Related Article: AI Systems Are More Prone to Malicious Attacks Than Previously Believed, Study Finds

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In Russia, fraudsters have invented a new scam for gullible Russians, which has already affected the mother of actor Dmitry Feinstein, who played in the popular TV series "Interns." The fraud involves accusations of "financial assistance to the Ukrainian Armed Forces."

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It is with this claim that the victims receive phone calls from unknown persons posing as employees of the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation. Frightened Russians are ready to do anything to keep their money and avoid going to jail. The incident was reported by Russian propagandists.

In early December, 74-year-old Natalia Feinstein complained to the police that she had become a victim of fraud.

According to the pensioner, she received a call on Telegram from an unfamiliar man who introduced himself as an FSB officer and explained that she was suspected of transferring money to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, which could lead to a criminal case.

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The Russian woman was quickly assured that if she cooperated, she would not face jail time. Soon after, the pensioner received a call from a "Central Bank employee" who said that the attackers had not yet had time to use the money, so she needed to urgently transfer it to a "safe account."

The actor's mother followed the instructions and lost 80,000 rubles (about 24 thousand hryvnias, ~$861 US). When the pensioner came to, she ran to complain to the police, who are now investigating.

The Muscovite's son, who has starred in more than 30 Russian projects, did not comment on the incident. Russians are hesitant to make accusations because they do not know from which country the scammers called, but just in case, Russian media outlets habitually blame the Armed Forces in their headlines.

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Earlier, OBOZ.UA wrote that the Russian actor from the movie "Viva Gardes-Marines" who became an occupier was humiliated in Moscow. The terrorist was outraged by the words of the film crew on Andrey Malakhov's show and sent them to the three-lettered word.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
ZestMoney, an Indian buy now, pay later (BNPL) startup, has decided to cease operations after extensive efforts to secure a buyer ended up in vain.

The Bengaluru-based fintech, recognized for its unique ability to underwrite small loans for first-time internet users, had attracted substantial investments from prominent backers, including Goldman Sachs, PayU, Quona, Zip, Omidyar Network, and Ribbit Capital, according to TechCrunch.

Over its eight-year journey, ZestMoney raised over $130 million, reaching a valuation of $445 million. The startup's distinctive approach involved leveraging alternative data points to assess creditworthiness for consumers lacking traditional credit scores, allowing them to make initial online purchases.

ZestMoney Lays Off 150 Workers

Despite ZestMoney's success in securing investments and building a customer base of 17 million, the startup faced significant challenges, prompting a strategic shift. The founders stepped down in May 2023 after acquisition discussions with fintech giant PhonePe fell through. Subsequently, the reins were handed over to a new leadership team consisting of three individuals who aimed to navigate a new path for the company.



According to a report from Money Control, the new leadership's attempt to execute a turnaround plan, dubbed ZestMoney 2.0 or ZeMo 2.0, faced insurmountable hurdles. The leadership informed employees during a town hall meeting that the company would fully wind down by the end of the month, leading to the termination of approximately 150 jobs.

The development follows the founders' exit and a series of engagements with various investors and fintech giants in recent months to explore potential deals. The ZestMoney shutdown decision underscores the challenges faced by the firm in a competitive market where fintech startups aim to address the credit gap in a country with low credit card penetration.

Read Also: Tesla's Model 3 Tax Credit Slashed: What Buyers Need to Know

Once a Promising Fintech

ZestMoney's closure comes as a significant setback for its backers, who had envisioned a pioneering role for the startup in the Indian fintech landscape. The startup's initiative to provide credit access to those without traditional credit scores contributed to its notable success.



According to the company's website, "ZestMoney's unique platform uses mobile technology, digital banking, and artificial intelligence to make life more affordable for millions of Indian consumers by putting customers in touch with our lending partners and managing their credit for them." Moreover, it highlighted that its "innovative technology and work to make affordable digital finance accessible led to their selection as a 2020 Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum."

ZestMoney, established by Lizzie Chapman, Priya Sharma, and Ashish Anantharaman in 2016, had 27 lending partners and merchant collaborations with 10,000 online brands and 75,000 offline stores, however, the shifting dynamics of the fintech sector in India have led to its untimely demise. According to Hindustan Times, the Reserve Bank of India banned non-bank institutions and fintech businesses, including numerous 'buy now, pay later' services, from loading credit lines into wallets and prepaid cards last year.

The closure of ZestMoney coincides with another setback for Omidyar Network, as Omidyar-backed Doubtnut recently agreed to a sale for $10 million, a significant drop from its previous valuation and a challenging development for the investment firm.

Related Article: Meta and IBM Launch AI Alliance Advocating for 'Open Science' Approach

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The latest startup company by Elon Musk, X.AI is now looking to raise more of its funds in their recent filing with the SEC, seeking to garner as much as $1 billion in funds. This new artificial intelligence company is best known for developing the Grok AI, its version of the chatbot that competes with ChatGPT and Google Bard, situated over at its founder's social media, X.

Elon Musk's X.AI Seeks to Raise $1 Billion in Funds

CNBC reported that Elon Musk's startup, X.AI, has filed a new document with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to raise as much as $1 billion in funds. It was also said that this is an equity offering for new investors, with the company already getting several interested parties in its previous offer.

Back on November 29, X.AI was able to take in as much as $135 million from four investors, with a "binding and enforceable agreement" for its remaining shares, says the filing.

It remains unknown what developments X.AI would be doing with its latest rally to raise its funds, with a massive sum of $1 billion to attain in this latest request.

Read Also: Elon Musk Shares 'Disturbing' Letter About Sam Altman, Greg Brockman from Alleged Former OpenAI Employees

X.AI to Understand the Universe with Equity Offering

When Musk first announced X.AI, its goal was to understand more of the universe than what the world knows about it, debuting Grok as "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy."

On its website, X.AI revealed that its version of the AI chatbot had about two months of training when it was first released, and it is currently under a beta testing phase over at X.

X.AI said that Grok is not the regular AI chatbot, as it was designed to answer questions "with a bit of wit and has a rebellious streak," further saying that it is for those with humor only. As it portrays, it is more lax about answering controversial questions that users have in mind.

Elon Musk's AI and the X Companies

It was only towards the end of November that the world got to see what Musk and X.AI have worked on, and it is with Grok's debut that offered the social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), an AI chatbot. However, it was not made available for all, as the company hid it behind the X Premium+ tier, the most expensive and feature-packed subscription on its platform.

Before delivering Grok, Musk was rumored to have formed a new company, and this would focus on artificial intelligence development that would rival OpenAI, Stability AI, and more. This was later named X.AI, and it first took shape in April 2023, with its records centering on Nevada, where it was created, with Elon Musk being its only director.

Since then, the company's goal has been to understand more of the unanswered questions present in the universe, but there has been little information about how it trains and its other aspects. Recently, Musk and X.AI filed with the SEC to seek funding, and its goal is to raise as much as $1 billion from investors in an equity offering, with the fund set for its future developments in AI.

Related Article: Elon Musk Responds Amidst Advertiser Pause on X, Curses Out Disney, Apple & Others

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A glitch has caused offensive slurs to be embedded in Reddit URLs. This offensive term isn't isolated to a single search query; a Google site search for the subdomain on Reddit revealed multiple links from various subreddits containing the term.

(Photo : OLIVIER DOULIERY/AFP via Getty Images)





Causing Offensive Slurs

A Reddit glitch is causing offensive slurs to be incorporated into its URLs, occasionally causing them to appear prominently on Google. The Verge discovered Reddit links with a subdomain containing unexpected characters and a derogatory term.

Despite the presence of unconventional characters, the link redirects to Reddit, displaying the Old Reddit layout on the page. The offensive term wasn't limited to a single search query. A Google site search for the subdomain on Reddit unveiled multiple links from various subreddits featuring the term.

Several Reddit users have reported encountering this issue in the past day. Furthermore, it was discovered that substituting other words for the one following "2goback-" in the subdomain still allows the URLs to function.

The offensive term doesn't surface in every Reddit-related search. I've only come across it in the particular query my colleague encountered and when specifically looking for the inappropriate URL on both Reddit and Google. During usual browsing, the Daily Guardian reported that Reddit links display normally.

Reddit, Google's Responses

Reddit has recently identified a bug that presents a potential security concern. As per Reddit spokesperson Courtney Geesey-Dorr, this bug allows the manipulation of words and phrases within post-page hyperlinks leading to Reddit.

The company is actively collaborating with partners to address and rectify the issue. It's worth noting that Google may index URLs it encounters, whether on or off the platform, and this could include arbitrary URLs generated due to the bug. The bug remains under investigation as Reddit works on a solution to mitigate its impact.

In response to the investigation, Google spokesperson Jennifer Kutz issued a statement indicating that the issue is tied to a configuration problem on Reddit, enabling the creation of alternative URLs for Reddit content.

Google recognizes the need to avoid surprising users with unintended content in search results and expresses a commitment to exploring solutions to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

As users await a resolution, the emphasis is on addressing the configuration issue to ensure a more accurate and secure search experience.

Also read: Reddit Eyes Potential IPO in 2023, Exploring Discussions with Investors

In 2018, The Guardian reported that Steve Huffman, the CEO of Reddit, stated that racist slurs are allowed on the platform in response to a user's question about the permissibility of open racism, including slurs.

This was revealed in a discussion thread following the release of the site's transparency report on Russian propaganda. According to Huffman, the use of such slurs does not violate Reddit's rules.

Huffman's contentious statement sheds light on the reason behind the existence of overtly racist and prominent communities on a platform with 542 million monthly visitors.

Related Article: Reddit CEO Steve Huffman Admits Editing Trump Supporters' Posts That Insulted And Criticized Him

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In the latest interview, a renowned ex-Tesla employee and a whistleblower shared his skepticism over the Autopilot technology, going as far as saying that it is an 'experiment' in its current version. It is widely known that there are investigations and probes regarding the Autopilot technology, Tesla's assistive driver system, which helps control steering, acceleration, and more.

In recent times, Tesla's Autopilot and Full-Self Driving technologies faced scrutiny, as it was involved in multiple accidents that led to severe injuries and loss of lives.

Ex-Tesla Employee Whistleblower Says Autopilot is an 'Experiment'

The latest interview by BBC details the claims from the renowned whistleblower and ex-Tesla employee, Lukasz Krupski, who recently shared his doubts regarding the company's Autopilot.

"I don't think the hardware is ready and the software is ready," Krupski regarded. "It affects all of us because we are essentially experiments on public roads. So even if you don't have a Tesla, your children still walk on the footpath."

Moreover, the whistleblower shared that he found evidence within the company that Tesla did not follow the requirements for the safe operation of vehicles with a certain level of autonomous or assistive-driving technology. Krupski also revealed that several unnamed Tesla employees talked to him about the phenomenon found in the clean energy company's EVs known as "phantom braking," or random braking even without obstacles.

Read Also: Tesla Autopilot Wins Case, Not Responsible for Fatal 2019 Model 3 Crash

Lukasz Krupski: Once Revered by Musk, Later Harassed

Ars Technica detailed that Elon Musk once revered Krupski for putting out a fire at a Tesla delivery location in Norway, preventing a disaster from happening but leading to severe burns on his hands.

However, after Krupski leaked internal information from Tesla's systems detailing thousands of accident reports, he was later harassed and terminated last year. Krupski also faced a lawsuit from Tesla for leaking company data.

Tesla's Autopilot, FSD Crashes and Investigations

In the San Francisco Bay Area alone, Tesla saw 17 crashes in total, with the most recent one taking place earlier this April, and this involves the infamous Autopilot system used by the driver.

Other states and regions also saw various accidents involving one of Tesla's autonomous driving systems, including the Autopilot and the FSD, with the company caught up in various lawsuits.

Moreover, the famed Autopilot video from 2016, which shows how the Autopilot can drive without any interventions from its driver, was said to be fake, with former Tesla Autopilot engineer Ashok Elluswamy, claiming this under oath. His statement regarded that the entire video was staged, with Tesla going as far as editing some parts of its promotional material to make it seem roadworthy.

A fair share of former Tesla employees turned out to be whistleblowers, revealing internal documents and insider information about the many problems in the company's autonomous driving systems.

However, one of the more popular whistleblowers, Krupski, recently said that Tesla's hardware and software are not yet ready, being mere "experiments" as of now.

Related Article: Florida Judge Rules Tesla Knew of Autopilot Defects, Paving the Way for Trial

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The Defense Force of New Zealand plans to trial the first renewable-powered Uncrewed Surface Vessel through a short-term lease with the RNZN. The USV utilizes a retractable rigid sail with photo-electric cells, allowing it to navigate without sunlight and wind.

(Photo : Fiona Goodall/Getty Images)





Deploying First Renewable-Powered USV

The New Zealand Defense Force has revealed its plans to deploy the first renewable-powered Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV), named "Bluebottle," on a short-term lease for trials by the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN).

Interesting Engineering reported that the 22.3-foot USV would play a role in persistent surveillance for fishery protection, border control, and meteorological data in New Zealand's waters.

Currently being transported from Sydney to Auckland by HMNZS Aotearoa, "Bluebottle" is designed and manufactured by Ocius Technology, a Sydney-based company with prior experience in supplying USVs to the Australian Defence Force and collaborating with various agencies.

According to RNZN, the Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) employs a retractable rigid sail for wind propulsion, utilizing photo-electric cells on the sail. "Bluebottle" features a unique flipper and rudder system that enables navigation even without sunlight and wind.

It boasts a top speed of five knots and can operate at sea indefinitely, enduring rough conditions with wave heights ranging from six to nine meters.

Ensuring Secure System Control, Effective Vessel Identification

Equipped with radar, electro-optic, and infrared cameras, the USV ensures secure system control and effective vessel identification. The control and monitoring of the USV will be centralized in a control room at Devonport Naval Base.

Communication will be facilitated through mobile signals near the shore and high- and low-bandwidth satellites in offshore areas. Naval News reported that continuous surveillance will guarantee the USV's safe and efficient performance.

Also read: New Zealand Establishes Lead Agency to Strengthen Cyber Defenses Against Growing Threats

Commodore Garin Golding, RNZN's Maritime Component Commander, expresses enthusiasm about the USV's potential capabilities, particularly considering the vast size of New Zealand's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

As stated in its press release, he emphasized the immense coverage required for New Zealand's EEZ and the associated search and rescue area, spanning a total of 34 million square kilometers.

Acknowledging the challenges of monitoring such vast oceanic territories, he expressed optimism about the potential contributions of uncrewed drone aircraft and vessels in fulfilling crucial search and surveillance tasks.

Meanwhile, Commander Andy Bryant, RNZN's Commander of Autonomous Systems, anticipates witnessing the capabilities of the USV.

Based on the Bluebottle's successful activities supporting the Australian Government for extended periods without refueling or crew respite, Commander Bryant is confident in uncovering valuable insights into uncrewed vessels' operational and sustainable aspects.

The USV boasts versatile mobility, capable of transportation via trailer to various locations across New Zealand. Its launch and recovery can be seamlessly executed from a boat ramp. Additionally, the USV exhibits adaptability by being craned on and off a Navy ship, facilitating operational launches during overseas deployments.

Related Article: New Zealand Establishes Lead Agency to Strengthen Cyber Defenses Against Growing Threats

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The Biden administration has reportedly pledged to give over $6 billion to a pair of high-speed electric rail routes on the West Coast, with one project for a route between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area and the other to connect Los Angeles and San Francisco.

The Associated Press reported that the money is a small portion of the total cost to build the routes. However, it reportedly signifies the Biden administration's support for high-speed rail, an alternative mode of transportation popular in Europe and Asia.

"The federal government is back on building high speed rail in America... This award is just a great leap forward," said Brian Kelly, CEO of the California High-Speed Rail Authority, which oversees the public project.

The federal government will reportedly give private equity billionaire Wes Edens $3 billion for its high-speed train project to connect Las Vegas to suburban Los Angeles.

California's $100 billion high-speed rail project, which eventually intended to connect Los Angeles and San Francisco, also won a $3.1 billion grant from the Biden administration. The first phase of the rail project, which is a 171-mile route connecting the cities of Merced and Bakersfield, is already under construction, Forbes reported.

(Photo : Photo by Ian Willms/Getty Images)

A VIA Rail train leaves Union Station, the heart of VIA Rail travel, bound for Windsor on April 22, 2013 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Brightline West' Project Won $3 Billion Grant From the Biden Administration

Wes Edens' high-speed train project, called Brightline West, will reportedly be the country's first real high-speed rail line. Brightline founder and chairman Edens thanked the Biden administration for the grant.

"We're honored and humbled in the confidence President (Joe) Biden, (Transportation) Secretary (Pete) Buttigieg, Senator (Jacky) Rosen and so many others have placed in Brightline's vision to bring true high-speed rail to America," he told the Forbes.

"This is a historic moment that will serve as a foundation for a new industry, and a remarkable project that will serve as the blueprint for how we can repeat this model throughout the country," he added.

The construction of the 218-mile Brightline West bullet train, which will mostly run along US Interstate 15, is expected to begin this year. The goal is to have trains running between downtown Las Vegas and the suburban city of Rancho Cucamonga, in the east of Los Angeles, in time for the 2028 Olympic games.

Read Also: 'Train of the Future': Superfast Hyperloop Shuttle Can Travel at Higher Speeds Using Less Energy

California's High-Speed Rail Project

The $100 billion California high-speed rail project will reportedly come later than the "Brightline West" project, as it is not scheduled to start operating through the state's Central Valley region until the 2030s.

According to Brian Kelly, the additional government funds will help fill a roughly $10 billion funding gap for the Central Valley route. He noted that more money is needed in the future, and authorities are looking for funds from both the federal and state governments.

Calling it "a vote of confidence," California Governor Gavin Newsom said the administration's funding comes "at a critical turning point" for the project.

President Joe Biden will reportedly travel to Las Vegas later this week to announce the federal award, a person familiar with the matter told the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Related Article: Hyperloop that Travels Passengers at "Almost the Speed of Sound," Only a Few Years Away

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Older iPhones like the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 series only got Qi wireless charging support, but that would soon change when iOS 17.2 drops for these devices, as Qi2 charging support is now made available. This charging standard arrived earlier this year, with smartphones coming later and already seeing support for Qi2 alongside new accessories from renowned manufacturers.

For now, only the MagSafe chargers can give the older iPhones as much as 15W of power for faster charging speeds, but with the new OS update, its options will expand.

Apple's iOS 17.2 Brings Qi2 Support for iPhone 14, 13

The latest iOS 17.2 RC release notes detailed many new features for future updates, but one of the most notable information here is the arrival of the Qi2 Wireless Charging standard support for the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 lineup. One of the caveats of owning an iPhone is needing to get dedicated accessories like the MagSafe to get its full potential, especially with its 15W charging.

However, that will no longer be the case in the future, and this will line up the same experiences as the latest iPhone 15 lineup, which already supports the Qi2 standard.

For those under the beta program, this feature is already present.

Read Also: Severe Weather Halts Apple iPhone Production: Foxconn, Pegatron Temporarily Close Indian Factories

What Does This Mean for iPhone Wireless Charging?

The arrival of Qi2 for the soon-releasing iOS 17.2 will allow iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 owners to use third-party wireless chargers and need not worry about slower charging times compared to the MagSafe. Once this takes effect, the previous 7.5W of wireless charging will get to higher power outputs via Qi2-supported chargers, but The Verge said that the exact speeds remain unknown.

The iPhone Lineup, MagSafe, Wireless Charging

The iPhone lineup was long paired with Apple's renowned MagSafe wireless charging, and as the name suggests, it uses magnets to transfer power through electromagnetic induction to replenish its batteries. However, it was previously revealed that the MagSafe only tops up to 15W of power for the smartphone, 5W less than the 20W USB-C to Lightning wired charging.

However, this changed when the company released the iPhone 15, as it supports Qi2 wireless charging, and this means that while it has a cap of 15W, it is no longer limited to the MagSafe. This means that as long as the wireless charger supports Qi2, it will deliver 15W of power for faster charging, improving from before, when it capped it at 7.5W for third-party accessories.

Apple's latest integration of Qi2 Wireless Charging, standard support for older iPhones, will help expand more options for users who did not upgrade to the newest smartphone series. However, users would have to wait before iOS 17.2 arrives, as the company's recent release notes detail that it is only a release candidate, with the operating system still preparing to move out of beta.

Related Article: Qi2 Wireless Charging Upgrade: Inspired from Apple's MagSafe Connections for Android Devices

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Twitch is set to close its operations in South Korea on February 27, 2024, citing the prohibitively high operating costs in one of the world's largest esports markets.

Twitch CEO Dan Clancy announced the company's decision in a blog post, citing the significant effort made to reduce network costs but ultimately acknowledging that the fees in Korea remained 10 times more expensive than in most other countries.

"We understand that this is extremely disappointing news, and we want to explain why we made this decision and how we are planning to support those impacted," Clancy said.

"Ultimately, the cost to operate Twitch in Korea is prohibitively expensive and we have spent significant effort working to reduce these costs so that we could find a way for the Twitch business to remain in Korea," he added.

Challenges Faced by Twitch in Korea

In his blog post, Dan Clancy outlined the challenges faced by Twitch in Korea, including experimenting with a peer-to-peer model for source quality and adjusting the maximum source quality to 720p.

Despite these efforts leading to some cost reductions, the network fees in Korea remained a substantial obstacle. The streaming platform has been operating at a significant loss in Korea, with no viable pathway to sustainable business operations in the country, according to Clancy.

Clancy stressed that the situation in Korea is unique, with operating costs significantly higher than in other countries. He expressed disappointment over the decision and acknowledged Korea's unique role in the international esports community.

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Where Will Korean Streamers Go?

Twitch has plans to support affected streamers in Korea during this transition. Dan Clancy noted that the platform would assist these communities in finding new homes, even if it means moving to alternative live-streaming services in Korea.

Twitch is actively reaching out to other services to facilitate the transition and will keep impacted streamers informed as discussions progress. The announcement has left Twitch streamers in Korea and their communities disappointed, as they have invested considerable time and effort in building their presence on the platform.

Despite closing its operations, Clancy said Twitch aims to maintain its commitment to the Korean esports community by helping them transition seamlessly to other platforms.

For more details and updates, Twitch has directed users to a dedicated help article and invited them to join live streams where community questions will be addressed.

A specific live stream for the Korean community is scheduled on /TwitchKR on December 6 at 9:30 a.m. KST, and another session for the broader audience on /Twitch on the same day at 11 a.m. KST.

This decision by Twitch reflects the complexities and challenges of working in different global markets, particularly in regions where operating costs pose significant financial constraints.

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Researchers from Binghamton University, State University of New York have introduced an innovative tool to measure digital media addiction.

This tool, known as the Digital Media Overuse Scale (dMOS), aims to provide clinicians and researchers with a versatile and up-to-date instrument for measuring digital media addiction as new technologies emerge.

All About the dMOS

Daniel Hipp, co-lead of the study and a PhD graduate from Binghamton University's Infant and Child Studies lab, expressed the need for a tool that remains applicable in the clinic and lab, reflecting current understandings of digital addiction without becoming obsolete with the advent of new technologies.

This challenge arises from the transitory nature of popular digital platforms, such as social networks and video games, which may vary in popularity over time.

Existing tools for assessing the relationship between psychology and technology are not only outdated in the discussions of technology but are also designed around specific and antiquated technology questions.

Hipp, along with Professor Peter Gerhardstein and the Digital Media Treatment and Education Center in Boulder, Colorado, developed the dMOS to address these limitations, allowing investigators to tailor their inquiries to specific digital media domains.

Rather than focusing on the tech itself, the dMOS incorporates a set of core questions that center on psychological aspects. For instance, one question delves into users' ability to stop themselves from using a specific digital domain, irrespective of whether it pertains to social media, gaming, or other tech domains.

This approach allows the scale to accommodate new tech domains as they emerge, ensuring its longevity. In a comprehensive test of the dMOS, the researchers conducted an anonymous survey involving college students.

They aim to explore clinically relevant behaviors and attitudes related to digital media domains, including general smartphone use, internet video consumption, social media use, gaming, and pornography use.

Read Also: How Addicted Are You to the Internet? New Study Introduces Internet Addiction Spectrum

Survey Findings

The survey revealed that most students showed few indications of addiction or overuse. Individual users displayed precise usage patterns tailored to particular domains.

A subset of students exhibited attitudes and behaviors related to digital media use that would be considered clinically problematic if linked to other activities.

"Overall, the outcome reveals that overuse is not a general thing; respondents typically reported overuse in one or a few domains only, such as social media," Gerhardstein said in a statement.

"More broadly, the data paint a picture of a population using digital media substantially, and social media in particular, to a level that increases concern regarding overuse issues," he added.

The research team is currently expanding the scale to encompass two new tech domains in a follow-up study conducted in collaboration with the Digital Media Treatment and Education Center.

Additionally, they are starting collaborations with other researchers to enhance collective understanding of how human psychology intersects with the evolving digital media landscape. The research team's findings were published in Technology, Mind, and Behavior journal.

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In a captivating celestial showdown, stars clash with cosmic dust, and NASA's Picture of the Day captures the ongoing battle in the mesmerizing Carina Nebula.

The clash unfolds within the mystical confines of the Carina Nebula, where newborn stars, fueled by their energetic light and powerful winds, engage in a relentless campaign against the dusty stellar nurseries that birthed them.

Mystic Mountain Region

The image, a masterpiece captured by the Hubble Space Telescope and processed by Franco Meconi, showcases the drama within the Carina Nebula's Mystic Mountain region.

Here, towering pillars, dominated by opaque brown dust yet predominantly composed of transparent hydrogen gas, bear witness to the celestial conflict. Like cosmic champions, the stars radiate intense light and unleash winds that gradually erode and disperse the once-cozy stellar cradles.

Despite their appearance resembling torches ablaze with fiery ends, these dust pillars are not alight with flames. Instead, they bask in the luminance bestowed upon them by neighboring stars.

According to NASA, the interplay of light and shadow in this cosmic arena creates a breathtaking visual spectacle where the stars' brilliance contends with the veils of dust that shroud them.

Situated approximately 7,500 light-years away, this featured image hones in on a specific region known as HH1066, nestled within the expansive Carina Nebula.

HH1066 encapsulates the dynamism of stellar birth and the gradual transformation of these dusty pillars under the relentless influence of their radiant offspring.

Read Also: NASA's Picture of the Day Unveils Stunning Star Trails Over Beijing Ancient Observatory

Who Is Gaining the Upper Hand?

In this cosmic ballet, the stars, in their prime, are gradually gaining the upper hand. According to NASA, their energetic onslaught promises to overcome the resilient dusty structures, and the celestial torches, once vivid symbols of stellar infancy, are destined to succumb to the relentless forces of light and wind.

The Carina Nebula holds a storied legacy in astronomical annals. With monikers like the Grand Nebula and the Eta Carinae Nebula, bestowed in honor of the bright star at its core, this celestial marvel has fascinated astronomers since its discovery by Nicolas Louis de Lacaille in 1752.

Today, the Carina Nebula continues to be a captivating subject for study, offering insights into the relentless dance between stars and the cosmic cradles that shape their existence.

The Carina Nebula is a rich area for scientific study, providing astronomers with insights into the processes of star formation, the life cycles of massive stars, and the dynamics of interstellar matter.

It is often observed using various telescopes, including those sensitive to infrared and X-ray wavelengths, allowing astronomers to study the nebula across different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum.

The Hubble Space Telescope has captured stunning images of the Carina Nebula, revealing intricate details of its structure and its diverse population of stars. The nebula's beauty and scientific significance make it a captivating subject for astronomers and a popular target for astrophotographers.

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 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Valeriy Sheludko, a Ukrainian who was appointed director of the Mykola Kulish Kherson Regional Music and Drama Theater during the occupation, escaped with the invaders after the city was liberated. The collaborator is now organizing his "recitals" in the occupied territories.

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Olena Khokhlatkina, People's Artist of Ukraine, leading actress of the Ivan Franko National Theater, told OBOZ.UA in an interview. She once worked with Sheludko in the Kherson theater.

"This character is very funny in his desire to be great. A short man who dreamed of becoming very visible," says Olena Khokhlatkina, "For this purpose, he once gave himself a kind of Hollywood smile, and this made him even funnier. When I was working in the theater, he was a stagehand. And I must say that we had a good relationship. We all had a good relationship - the theater was small, and we treated each other like family."

Sheludko has the title of Honored Worker of Culture of Ukraine. He has worked at the theater since 1989. At first he was a stage assembler, later he was transferred to the position of assistant director, and acted as head of the editing department. For some time, he was the head of the theater's artistic and production department, where he worked until he left the theater in July 2021. In August 2021, he was rehired as a security guard.

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When the occupiers entered Kherson, the current director of the theater, Oleksandr Knyga, was arrested. However, thanks to the instantaneous powerful publicity, he was released. Later, Knyga and his family managed to leave the region. Sheludko went on to cooperate with the occupiers. In interviews with Russian propagandists, the traitor said that art should be outside politics, and called the war in Ukraine a "military operation." When the occupiers left Kherson, Sheludko fled Kherson with the theater staff, who also colluded with the aggressors.

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"Nowadays, one of my colleagues often sends me videos of what he and a group of several actors who fled with him are doing now," says Olena Khokhlatkina, "They went to the left bank with the occupiers. How else could they have done? He would have been in prison by now. What would he say: that he was forced to betray? It will be very difficult to justify this. A part of the cast and workers of the shops are with him. Now they are based either in Henichesk or Skadovsk. They call themselves the Kherson Drama Theater. They work in some club, travel to the occupied villages, give concerts."

"There are three and a half cripples in the troupe and the main actor is this Sheludko. Among them is the People's Artist of Ukraine and another actor who was a leading actor in our theater, I must say - a strong professional, a characteristic actor, but a person, as we can see, not so much. Now it's a comedy group. And a director with a Hollywood smile. Both laughter and sin. I can imagine how they feel: they lived well, had everything-housing, salary, roles, fans. They were loved in Kherson, and now they are like freaks."

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Meanwhile, the Kherson Kulish Music and Drama Theater, headed by director Oleksandr Knyga, is now working only in a shelter. According to Olena Khokhlatkina, there is no way to go on stage: "There are arrivals every hour." "There are projects, one-man shows, and the actors travel around Ukraine with them," Khokhlatkina adds. "One of the plays, 'You will be as the witch says,' is about what Kherson residents experienced during the occupation. The plot is based on the story of a woman who lost all her property after the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station was blown up, but did not break down. The main role is played by People's Artist of Ukraine Olena Gall-Savalska."

Read the full interview with actress Olena Khokhlatkina later.

As OBOZ.UA previously reported, the star of the Mykola Kulish Theater, People's Artist of Ukraine Ruzhena Rubleva faces up to 12 years in prison for collaborating with the occupiers in Kherson.

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Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The British Duchess Kate Middleton, wife of Crown Prince William, continues to shock against the backdrop of the racist scandal that has erupted around her. During the last reception of diplomats at Buckingham Palace, she appeared in a spectacular outfit with the tiara of the late Princess Diana.

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The look of Kate Middleton was called a "revenge dress" and was also praised as a "greeting" to the world from the beloved Lady Di. British fashion journalist and writer Liz Jones wrote about this in a column for the Daily Mail.

The Duchess and her husband, King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla, hosted a reception at their home in London the day before, where many distinguished people from many parts of the world came to see her.

Liz Jones is sure that Kate Middleton felt the pressure and anticipated that all eyes would be on her behavior. With so many rumors swirling around the royal family, fans and paparazzi are especially scrutinizing its members.

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Guided by this, the princess decided to convey a message without words that indicated her confidence and dignity as Lady Di once did when the whole world was discussing her husband, then Prince Charles,'s infidelities.

Kate Middleton didn't hide behind inconspicuous colors or attract attention with her frankness. Instead, she chose an elegant long dress by Jenny Packham, in which she literally shone as the outfit was embroidered with sequins.

A reference to Princess Diana was the Cambridge Lover's Knot tiara, which was often worn by the late ex-wife of the king, but every time she complained about the weight of the jewelry. The tiara's 19 diamond arches feature 19 large pearls, and above them are the same number of diamond knots that resemble hearts with thorns.

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The jewelry was once presented to Princess Diana for her wedding. She gave the tiara to Queen Elizabeth II after the divorce. In 2015, Kate Middleton became the owner of the royal inheritance.

Liz Jones suggested that the Duchess's outfit, referring to her late mother-in-law, was a signal to the world that she was not afraid of gossip and pressure but was ready to continue to fulfill her duties and behave with dignity in public.

As a reminder, the scandal erupted because of Omid Scobie's book Endgame, which describes an incident in 2021. Back then, someone from the royal family was allegedly interested in the skin color of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's son, so in the eyes of the media and fans, these unnamed people looked racist.

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As OBOZ.UA wrote, the Dutch translation of Endgame for some reason used Kate Middleton's name in this context. Fans are not sure if this was an accident, but the princess is being criticized anyway. Read more about her reaction here.

Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
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 Communities 2019 - Privacy

The information on this site is from external sources that are not under our control.The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
Eleven kilometers into the depths: China says it wants to drill into the Earth's mantle with a special ship

According to the study, crocodiles are romantic lovers  and speak a "language of love"

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 Communities 2019 - Privacy

The information on this site is from external sources that are not under our control.The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
By XU XIULI

WANG XIAOYING/CHINA DAILY

China is a major trendsetter and active participant in experience-sharing and development cooperation among the Global South countries

For a long time, the definition of development and the related policymaking of the Global South was influenced, if not dominated, by the Global North. Meanwhile, the cooperation among Global South countries was relatively loose, and, due to a lack of funding and capacity, they had limited control over their own development agendas. Therefore, Global South countries failed to effectively implement their independent development plans owing to limited financial resources and external impacts.

In recent years, however, the rise of emerging economies such as China, India, Brazil, South Africa, Mexico, Indonesia and Turkiye has provided new references for other Global South countries exploring their own development paths and cooperation models. Meanwhile, enhanced experience-sharing among Global South countries has given developing countries confidence to pursue independent development.

In such a context, emerging countries including China hold high the banner of development and cooperation, and vigorously promote experience sharing and development cooperation among Global South countries. The prime examples are the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as the global development, security, and civilization initiatives proposed by China.

Compared with traditional South-South cooperation models in the post-World War II era, the new cooperation among Global South countries has some distinctive features. First, the new cooperation has gone beyond the sporadic economic and technological cooperation in the early days, and it now pays more attention to the building of platforms and the reshaping of the global governance system.

For example, starting with the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, China has established a host of "1+N "dialogue and cooperation mechanisms with Africa, Latin America, Arab states, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Central and Eastern Europe, and the Pacific Island countries.

The expansion of BRICS and the inclusion of the African Union in the G20 this year have given Global South countries more say in reshaping the global development governance system.

Second, Global South countries have increased the funds for development cooperation on a wider scale. China's spending on foreign aid and international development cooperation during the past decade is 10 times that of the average level in the previous six decades since the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949. Also, the foreign aid of China serves more as a catalyst for driving more economic and trade cooperation.

Third, emerging countries have accumulated more experiences in the process of their own development, providing new choices for developing nations in Africa, Latin America and Asia to choose their development paths and philosophies.

As the world's largest developing country, China is a major trendsetter and active participant in South-South cooperation. Over the past more than 10 years, China has been pushing for a transition of its foreign aid system to one focused on international development cooperation and global development governance, and has enhanced South-South cooperation with its own characteristics.

First, over the past decade, China has scaled up its foreign aid efforts, improved the composition of its aid projects, and expanded the channels and partners of international development cooperation. It should be noted that China uses different metrics to gauge foreign aid than that used for the Official Development Assistance of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. So a simple comparison between the two is inappropriate. But generally speaking, China's foreign aid as a share of Gross National Income is relatively lower. And for a long time, China's foreign aid funds were mainly channeled to large infrastructure projects, mainly in the form of concessional loans.

Since 2012, China has gradually shifted from large foreign aid projects to "small yet smart" livelihood programs, while increasing the share of donations in foreign aid in order to promote solidarity and experience sharing among Global South countries. In the past, China's foreign aid was predominantly bilateral, but in recent years, China has laid more emphasis on the role of multilateral international organizations, and enhanced its connection with these organizations and middle-income countries.

Second, to respect the desire of other Global South countries for independent development and to explore building a global governance system based on the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits, China has attached more importance to shared development and innovated its foreign aid narrative by proposing the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind and providing global public goods.

This embodies a combination of traditional Chinese culture and the frontier narrative in international development, and expresses China's inclusive and open attitude toward North-South dialogues and South-South development cooperation. Also, this is China's solution to the mounting challenges and risks facing the world as a result of decades of economic globalization and the deep integration of the global economy, and underlines the proactive and positive contribution being made by the Global South in the new system.

China is also paying more attention to sharing its own development experiences with other countries. Since the 21st century, China has established platforms such as the International Poverty Reduction Center in China, the Center for International Knowledge on Development, and the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development. By setting up majors and disciplines in area studies, international affairs, global governance and international development, China has stepped up efforts on knowledge accumulation of development practices and talent cultivation for Global South countries.

To summarize, China, based on its own development experiences, has mobilized more financial resources for development, and created more platforms for development cooperation, thus enriching the connotations, philosophies, and practices of new-type cooperation among Global South countries.

China's shift is reflected not only in its innovating the ways of international development cooperation and South-South cooperation, but also in its expanding the channels for Global South countries to take part in global development governance, which has helped the world to explore new development paths and accumulate knowledge of development and build a global development governance system featuring extensive consultation, joint construction and shared benefits.

But it should be noted that the global development governance system is still mainly constructed by the Global North, a pattern that has existed since the 19th century. The cooperation among Global South countries still faces multiple challenges in strengthening growth capacities, building mechanisms for development cooperation, and accumulating development knowledge and practices.

The author is dean of the College of International Development and Global Agriculture and a professor of humanities and development studies at China Agricultural University. The author contributed this article to China Watch, a think tank powered by China Daily. The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

Contact the editor at editor@chinawatch.cn.

China Daily Nov. 27th, 2023




The popular Russian rapper Ivan Alekseev, known as Noize MC, who has been criticizing the Kremlin for many years, spoke out in defense of Russians. When asked how anti-war Russian citizens could help the suffering Ukrainians, he became confused, telling about his fellow citizens instead. He said they should take care of themselves and their loved ones.

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The artist advised against taking risks and stated that he was not calling for activism. In an interview with I Gryanul Grem, the rapper felt sorry for Russians because "it's hard for them to live in a totalitarian country."

As for helping Ukrainians, Alekseev only mentioned the existence of some funds to which cryptocurrency could be sent. However, the artist did not name these organizations, apparently thinking that posters calling for donations to Ukrainians hang at every corner of Russia and that they do not need attention.

"First of all, of course, you need to take care of yourself and your loved ones, and not make a deal with your conscience. I understand that people are scared, and I am not inclined to demand anyone go somewhere and engage in activism. I realize that everyone's situation is different. Some are ready to go beyond the boundaries, while others are held back by circumstances and cannot dare. This does not mean that a person is bad. Living in a totalitarian society is very scary, disturbing and terrifying," the "pro-Ukrainian" artist lamented.

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He also emphasized that Russians need to take care of their "mental health" while Ukrainians are fighting for survival.

"We need to take precautions, but there are many ways to support people in Ukraine who are suffering from the actions of the Russian Federation. This is due to the support of various funds with cryptocurrency transfers. Somehow we need to stay together. This is also a risk, but these days everything is a risk. We need to stay in touch with our own kind," the rapper concluded.

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Summing up, the Russian made it clear that he does not support the Kremlin's policy, but he sympathizes with the people of Russia, who seemingly cannot change the government through joint efforts. The artist indulges their desire to continue living in a dictatorial country and fearing reprisals until Ukrainians defeat the enemy army and change the situation inside Russia.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA wrote that Ukrainian TV presenter Oleksii Sukhanov, who has worked in Russia for a long time, said that he was against the expression "good Russians." He said there are no Russians who can become "ours."

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Famous Ukrainian film director and former political prisoner of the Kremlin, now a defender of Ukraine in the Avdiivka sector, Oleh Sentsov, said that he dreams of seeing the collapse of Vladimir Putin's regime with his own eyes and being present at the trial of the aggressor country's president in The Hague. Sentsov believes that the ideal scenario for the breakdown of Russian ideology is situations similar to those that occurred after the deaths of Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi and Soviet leader Joseph Stalin.

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The director, who was recently injured, spoke about this and other things in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda. According to him, the collapse of the "Russian world" will be a variant of either Gaddafi or Stalin when he was buried. This regime will definitely not be able to be "mothballed" as is currently happening in North Korea.

Oleh Sentsov believes that another scenario for the collapse of the Putin regime is a situation similar to what happened two years after the death of Joseph Stalin. Back in 1956, at the 20th Congress of the Communist Party, Nikita Khrushchev condemned Stalin's activities. This event was to serve as the beginning of the rebirth of the Soviet Union.

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The military also emphasized that he dreams of meeting Putin in court: "...that 'old man' who barely flips through the protocol. I dream of seeing him suffer because he is very ambitious, and such events will be a feeling of the greatest collapse for him."

But he refused to be a witness at the tribunal. In his opinion, there are people who have suffered more. In particular, Sentsov agreed to observe the events in court.

It is worth noting that Oleh Sentsov was an active participant in the Revolution of Dignity and Automaidan. In 2014, he was detained by Russian security forces in Simferopol, and in 2015, he was illegally sentenced in Russia to 20 years in prison on terrorism charges.

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Reference. Muammar Gaddafi and Joseph Stalin were both dictators. Gaddafi created a state system in the 1960s called the Jamahiriya. Its main aspect was the protection of the ruling family, i.e. Gaddafi himself, as well as life imprisonment for disseminating information that spoiled Libya's reputation, collective execution and the death penalty. The same laws were followed by Stalin in the U.S.S.R.

The end of Gaddafi's rule came with the outbreak of the 2011 Libyan Civil War. The International Criminal Court then issued an arrest warrant for Gaddafi, accusing him of crimes against humanity. The dictator was in hiding for several months until he was wounded in the city of Sirte and died. More than 10 years have passed, and civil wars are still going on in Libya.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA wrote that Oleh Sentsov was wounded at the front, and recently returned from the war zone for his son's first birthday.

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As President Joe Biden likes to remind anyone who will listen, This is not your grandfathers Republican Party.

That has never been more evident than when examining the way the 2024 Republican presidential candidates approach the topic of Ukraine.

Support for Ukraine is dividing the GOP field. Several candidates believe the US should continue to support the war effort  a stance that adheres to more traditional Republican foreign policy beliefs.

For years, leaders in the GOP like George W Bush sounded alarms about Russia and supported Nato membership for Ukraine.

But in more recent years, notably under former president Donald Trump, modern conservatives have embraced isolationism.

A number of other Republican candidates, including Mr Trump  the current frontrunner, have expressed support for this.

This is a rundown of what the GOP presidential candidates have said about Ukraine

Donald Trump

While president, Donald Trump tried to pressure Volodymyr Zelensky into announcing an investigation into the Biden family (AFP via Getty Images)

While president, Mr Trump attempted to withhold military assistance to Ukraine to get Ukrainian Preisdent Volodymyr Zelensky to open an investigation into Mr Biden, who Mr Trump saw as his main rival in 2020.

During an infamous press conference in Helsinki, Finland, Mr Trump sided with Mr Putin when asked if he believed Russia had interfered in the 2016 US election, as outlined by the US intelligence community.

More recently, Mr Trump has argued that all aid to Ukraine should be put on pause until federal agencies provide evidence regarding what he claimed were corrupt business dealings by Mr Biden and his son.

During a July rally in Pennsylvania, Mr Trump argued that Mr Biden was dragging the US into the war.

The US Congress should refuse to authorize a single additional payment of our depleted stockpiles  until the FBI, [Department of Justice] and [Internal Revenue Service] hand over every scrap of evidence they have on the Biden crime familys corrupt business dealings, Mr Trump said in reference to what Republicans have claimed are allegations of bribery against Mr Biden.

The GOP has been unable to provide any evidence of the supposed scheme.

Mr Trump appeared on Fox News in March, saying that he would end the war in Ukraine in 24 hours with Zelensky and with Putin.

And theres a very easy negotiation to take place. But I dont want to tell you what it is because then I cant use that negotiation  itll never work. But its a very easy negotiation to take place. I will have it solved within one day, a peace between them. Now thats a year and a half. Thats a long time. I cant imagine something not happening, he added. The key is the war has to stop now because Ukraine is being obliterated.

Mr Trump has also been ambivalent about his support for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (Nato). While president he equivocated over whether he would back Article V, which states that an attack on any one of the defence pacts 31 members constituted an attack on all of them. The article has only been invoked once, by the US following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

He is also reported to have wanted to pull the US out of Nato.

Ron DeSantis

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was forced to walk back his initial dismissive comments about the conflict (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

The Florida governor does not believe the US should be involved in Ukraine but walked back his comments calling the war a territorial dispute.

In March, Mr DeSantis called the war a territorial dispute between Ukraine and Russia and said it should not be one of the USs national interests to get involved.

He faced backlash for diminishing the severity of the war and later clarified that he was only referring to the fighting in Donbas and Crimea when he called it a dispute.

Since then, Mr DeSantis has steered away from making too many comments on the war.

In April, he said he supported a ceasefire, saying its in everybodys interest.

He told the Japanese English-language weekly Nikkei Asia that You dont want to end up in like a [Battle of] Verdun situation, where you just have mass casualties, mass expense and end up with a stalemate.

During debates, hes made it clear he would not support sending US troops to Ukraine.

Vivek Ramaswamy

Vivek Ramaswamy has sought to link the war to the presidents son (Getty Images)

Mr Ramaswamy opposes the US intervening in Ukraine, has suggested Ukraine should concede territory to Russia and made mocking remarks about President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Of the candidates, Mr Ramaswamy has displayed the most anti-Ukraine rhetoric calling the country anti-democratic.

In August, the tech entrepreneur suggested that the US is aiding Ukraine because of Hunter Bidens foreign business dealings  a reference to unsubstantiated allegations made by congressional Republicans.

He suggested Russia and Ukraine should make an agreement to end the war  one in which Ukraine would make major concessions to Mr Putin by handing over the eastern Donbas regions and blocking Ukraine from joining Nato.

I dont think it is preferable for Russia to be able to invade a sovereign country that is its neighbour, but I think the job of the US president is to look after American interests, Mr Ramaswamy told ABC News.

During the third GOP debate in November, Mr Ramaswamy referred to Mr Zelensky as a comedian in cargo pants and mocked the Ukrainian president for allegedly celebrating a Nazi.

The reference was to an incident in September where Mr Zelensky applauded for a Ukrainian-Canadian veteran who was later found to have served in a Nazi-aligned military unit during World War II. Mr Zelensky, who is Jewish, lost family members during the Holocaust.

Nikki Haley

Nikki Haley says supporting Ukraines defence of its homeland also sends a start message to China over its threats to Taiwan (Getty Images)

The former UN ambassador believes it is in the USs best interest to support Ukraine.

A win for Ukraine is a win for all of us because tyrants tell us exactly what theyre going to do, she said on CNN.

Ms Haley has said that a Ukrainian victory would send a broader message to warn China about attacking Taiwan, that it would push Iran to not build nuclear weapons, and urge North Korea to move away from ballistic missile testing.

She has been critical of Mr Bidens slow and weak reaction to helping Ukraine.

Chris Christie

Chris Christie meeting Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv (via REUTERS)

Mr Christie supports sending US military aid to Ukraine and visited the country earlier this year.

Like Ms Haley, Mr Christie believes it is in the USs best interest to support Ukraine.

None of us like the idea that theres a war going on and that were supporting it, but the alternative is for the Chinese to take over, the Russians, the Iranians and the North Koreans, the former New Jersey governor said on CNN.

He noted that some kind of compromise with Russia may be required at some point and that the US should be part of the negotiations at a time when Ukraine can protect the land thats been taken by Russia in this latest incursion.

He argued that Mr Trump set the groundwork for the invasion and echoed 2016 comments by former Secretary of State and then-Democratic Presidential nominee Hillary Clinton, calling him Putins puppet.

He compared Mr DeSantis to British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, who unsuccessfully attempted to appease Adolf Hitler ahead of the Second World War.

Asa Hutchinson

Asa Hutchinson, US Republican presidential hopeful, speaks during his Fair Side Chat at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines, Iowa, on August 15, 2023 (AFP via Getty Images)

The former Arkansas governor said on CNN last year that it would be a mistake to withdraw funding for Ukraine in this extraordinary fight against Russia and Russias aggression against the sovereign territory of Ukraine.

Im very much supportive of Ukraine. I believe theyre fighting a battle that helps reflect a free Europe, he added.

He has also said that the US should help Ukraine win quickly, according to Politico.

He called Mr DeSantis naive for suggesting the US doesnt have a vital interest in the conflict.

The GOP needs to have leaders who understand the importance of the strength of America and our utilization of that strength in the cause of freedom, he said.

To dismiss this as something unimportant to the security of the United States is naive and not in our historic traditions, he told McClatchy.
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Robert F Kennedy Jr has revealed that he travelled twice on convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epsteins private jet.

In an interview with Fox News, the presidential candidate said that he flew on the private jet with Epstein twice along with his wife and children.

I was on Jeffrey Epsteins jet two times. I was on it in 1993 and I was on it when I went to Florida with my wife and two children to visit my mom over Easter, Mr Kennedy Jr said.

My wife had some kind of relationship with Ghislaine Maxwell and they offered us a ride to Palm Beach, so I went down and then on another occasion I flew again with my family with, I think, four of my children and Mary [Richardson Kennedy] my wife to Rapid City, South Dakota to go fossil hunting for a weekend.

Mr Kennedy said on Jesse Watters Primetime: But otherwise I was never on his jet alone. I have been very open about this from the beginning. This was in 93. So it was 30 years ago, way before anybody knew about Jeffrey Epsteins nefarious issues and I agree with you that this information should be released.

We should get real answers on what happened to Jeffrey Epstein. And any of the high-level political people that he was involved with, all of that should be open to the public.

Mr Kennedy, popularly known as RFK Jr, is the nephew of the 35th president John F Kennedy and is running as an independent candidate in the 2024 presidential election after a brief run as a Democrat.

In 2021, the independent presidential candidate was identified as one of several prominent individuals listed as passengers on Epsteins plane. The private jet was frequently used to ferry guests to the financiers personal Caribbean retreat, Little Saint James.

Epsteins private jet, Boeing 727, was dubbed the Lolita Express by several media outlets after allegations emerged that it was used to transport underage girls to various properties owned by the multi-millionaire.

In November, a spokesperson for Mr Kennedy told Newsweek that he had flown one time on Jeffrey Epsteins private plane. It was in 1993 from [New York City] to Palm Beach [Florida] to visit RFK Jrs mom for Easter.

The spokesperson added: Mary, Kennedys wife, and two of their kids were on the flight. Mary knew Epsteins girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell, who learned that they were going to Palm Beach for Easter and offered their family a ride.

In a statement to The Independent after Mr Kennedys appearance on Fox News, a campaign spokesperson confirmed he had in fact travelled twice on Epsteins private plane.

Mary Richardson Kennedy passed away in 2012. Mr Kennedy is now married to Cheryl Hines.
On Nai Yang Beach in Phuket, Thailand, near a hotel, a Russian tourist had a lively discussion with himself, frightening other vacationers. Witnesses called the police, complaining about the noise.

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When law enforcement officers tried to detain the offender, he spoke English and asked to spend the night on the beach. The local edition of The Phuket Express wrote about the incident.

Journalists cited tourist police spokespeople as saying that the crazy Russian was shouting and disturbing civilized people.

Looking at the ragged man with no shoes, wearing a T-shirt and shorts, the police offered him to go to the hospital or get psychiatric help, because loud conversations with himself outside the Russian Federation are at least strange to people.

However, the Russian refused to be hospitalized. At that moment, he was only concerned about sleeping, so he asked permission to sleep on a sunbed by the water.

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Confused police allowed him to rest in the open air, but ordered a security guard to keep an eye on the man.

"Reportedly, the man calmed down, took a nap and left safely, and the Phuket tourist police suggested that he was either intoxicated or just enjoying the company of himself," the journalists concluded.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA wrote that one of the citizens of the terrorist state arrived in Oslo, Norway, where he was going to exchange euros for the local currency. However, the Russian was denied a money transaction when he saw his passport.

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Supporters of East Baton Rouge Parish schools superintendent Sito Narcisse are wasting no time in trying to keep the 47-year-old veteran educator at the helm of the states second largest traditional school district.

The parish School Board, two-thirds of whom just took office two weeks ago, will consider whether to start contract renewal negotiations with Narcisse when it meets Thursday, even though his contract is not set to expire until June 30, 2024, more than 17 months from now.

Narcisses contract does not require he or the board to make a move until the end of December.
Insurance Australia Group has parted with its top lawyer, saying his behaviour fell short of its code of conduct.

Peter Horton, the insurers group general counsel and company secretary, will leave the company and cease as its secretary effective immediately, IAG said in a statement to the Australian Stock Exchange on Wednesday morning.

IAGs former general counsel Peter Horton.

IAG chief executive Nick Hawkins said the insurer had concluded Hortons behaviour didnt meet the expectations for behaviour set in the groups employee code of ethics and conduct.

This includes the importance of being inclusive and respectful, and we will hold people to account if they fail to meet these expectations, Hawkins said.
The blockade of the border by Polish carriers has delayed the delivery of drones, electronics, and pickup trucks to Ukraine, according to a Reuters report. Many cargoes are still waiting to enter the country.

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Taras Chmut, head of the Come Back Alive Foundation, stated that dozens of night vision systems, pickup trucks, and hundreds of drones purchased by the foundation have been stuck at the border for several weeks.

"This is bad because they are tied to projects, deadlines, and schedules. Things are moving, but it's slower than before," Chmut told Reuters.

He added that Come Back Alive is trying to negotiate with the Polish authorities to ensure the smooth passage of their aid, as Ukraine has no choice but to import many crucial parts and supplies from abroad.

"All the pickup trucks come from abroad, the night vision kits come from abroad. FPV drones usually come from abroad, and the blockade is slowing down our work," Chmut said.

Protests at the border are affecting military equipment manufacturers, said Viktor Dolgopiatov, head of the Engineer Corps. "If the blockade continues, it can become and is already becoming a big problem," he said.

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Dolgopiatov emphasized that the blockade of the border has delayed the supply of parts for vehicles, as well as components for power supplies used in UAV engines and radios. "I am convinced that a large number of spare parts that go to private sector companies working on defense projects are unfortunately now at the border," he said.

Part of the problem, according to Dolgopiatov, is that the cheapest way to transport goods from Poland is to use large trucks, which increases the likelihood of long delays.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, Poland will demand at the EU level to restore the system of permits for Ukrainian carriers. Polish activists, in violation of international agreements, continue to block four checkpoints with Ukraine, causing huge losses. However, representatives of the Polish government have supported the activists.

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Time magazine has named Taylor Swift its person of the year, capping a remarkable 2023 that saw the singer-songwriter dominate popular culture.

While her popularity has grown across the decades, this was the year that Swift, 33, achieved a kind of nuclear fusion: shooting art and commerce together to release an energy of historic force, Time wrote.

Times person of the year, Taylor Swift. Credit: Getty Images

Swifts accomplishments as an artist  culturally, critically, and commercially  are so legion that to recount them seems almost beside the point.

As a pop star, she sits in rarefied company, alongside Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, and Madonna; as a songwriter, she has been compared to Bob Dylan, Paul McCartney, and Joni Mitchell.
Performer Tim Minchin has reportedly described the three actors at the centre of a furore for wearing traditional keffiyeh scarves at the opening night of Sydney Theatre Companys production of The Seagull as living in leftie glass bubbles.

Minchin, who is a member of the theatre companys foundation board, spoke publicly of the STC controversy for the first time at his An Unfunny Evening with Tim Minchin and His Piano show in Canberras Llewellyn Hall on Monday night.

Tim Minchin in concert. Credit: Jacqui Manning

The pro-Palestinian protest by Harry Greenwood, Mabel Li and Megan Wilding, who took their curtain call wearing the scarves as a gesture of solidarity with the people in Gaza, has rocked the theatre world since the show opened at the Roslyn Packer Theatre on November 25.

The musician and composer of Matilda the Musical, who was in the opening night audience of the Chekhov classic, seemed to defend the actors, according to several members of his Canberra audience, explaining they did not understand what they were saying or wearing.
Sometimes, when you are watching television, theres a moment that tells you that a particular show was made for you. Recently, I had one of those moments. Im a lover of a period drama. Give me a corset, a gossiping butler and a debutante with a secret, and Im there. So I was interested in checking out The Buccaneers on Apple TV+, even if the trailer made it seem like it was maybe made for someone 20 years younger than me. (Im not sure why I thought that would be a barrier given I inhaled the entirety of Prime Videos The Summer I Turned Pretty like it was a legal requirement, but we digress).

The second the theme song kicked in, a cover of LCD Soundsystems North American Scum, which is a 2006 tune about how uncouth Americans seem to worldly and sophisticated Europeans, I knew this show had been tailor-made for me.

The Buccaneers is about Americans scandalising uptight British aristocracy. Credit: Apple TV+

Mid-2000s indie references aside, thats exactly what The Buccaneers is all about: scummy Americans scandalising uptight British aristocracy, the clashing of the old world and the new, and how money is a social passport that only sometimes transcends rigid class divides.

The first episode introduces us to a group of wealthy young women from New York who visit London in the 1870s, ostensibly to enter the competitive marriage market there. For lovers of Downton Abbey this might seem like a familiar tale. Were often reminded that Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) married American debutante Cora (Elizabeth McGovern) because she had the kind of new money that would rescue his struggling estate, whereas Coras family were chasing the prestige of a British aristocratic title.
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The founder of Iggys is rebooting the shopfront in Bronte to become a boutique-cum-bar.

After becoming one of Sydneys leading bakers, the family behind Bronte-based Iggys Bread is about to roll out a new genre-bending start-up: a fashion retailer by day, bar by night. And itll even have a sibling cafe next door.

Bar Buci will open over summer in the former home of the original Three Blue Ducks cafe, a few doors along from the Iggys Bronte headquarters on Macpherson Street. The site has been empty since the Ducks closed there in late 2021.

Charles Babinski, Igor Iggy Ivanovic and his daughter, Mishka Ivanovic, who are taking over the old Three Blue Ducks site and turning it into Cafe 143 and Bar Buci in Bronte. Janie Barrett

Igor Iggy Ivanovic and his wife, Ludmilla, opened their Sydney store in 2008, quickly gathering a loyal following among quality-hungry Sydneysiders. Thirteen years later, Iggy Ivanovic explains that the idea of a fashion bar fermented naturally: one side of the Ducks site was already a bar, and the couples daughter, Mishka, started a fashion label after she headed to New York to study at the Parsons School of Design.

The bar takes its name from Mishka Ivanovics sustainably focused fashion label, Buci. Itll sell Mishkas clothes and some other young designers from New York, and maybe some vintage clothes, Iggy Ivanovic says. When the sun dips, Bar Buci will pour vino alongside the vintage threads, and there will also be snacks and small Iggys bites.
Two teenagers are in hospital after a student allegedly stabbed the other at a Perth school.

Emergency services were called to Carine Senior High School about 10am on Thursday.

A boy and girl, aged 15 and 16, suffered non-life-threatening injuries during the incident involving an edged weapon.

One student inflicted injuries against the other, West Australian Police said.

Paramedics took the girl to Perth Childrens Hospital, where she remains in a stable condition, and the boy was transported to Royal Perth Hospital.

Inspector Jason Van Der Ende said it was a concerning and critical incident and teachers were forced to act as first responders.

We dont want this sort of behaviour in our schools, he told reporters.

Schools should be somewhere thats safe and there for our children to learn.

He said police remained with the students but declined to say if either was under arrest or whether charges had been laid.

We really want to highlight the fact that this is a contained incident and theres no threat to the community, he said.
The stated reason for the secrecy  to mitigate against land speculation  does not stack up, as no land was acquired by the responsible agency before a public announcement, and in any event would not justify keeping the relevant secretary in the dark. It was proved up by consultants rather than developed by public servants, and its announcement blindsided the agency set up by the same government to remove short-term politics from infrastructure planning. I cant tell them the bad news, no one wants to know it. A former agency head Since its announcement, its projected cost, evaluated by both the Auditor-General and the Parliamentary Budget Office, has increased exponentially and will dominate Victorian infrastructure spending for generations. As the (now former) secretary pointed out, a project of this scale competes with many other claims on public funds. They told us that not being able to test the opportunity costs creates a high risk that better uses of funds have been crowded out.

Excessive secrecy and the use of consultants also featured in the early Commonwealth Games planning. History has since revealed major flaws in the assumptions underpinning the financial modelling. The lack of rigorous public sector scrutiny of such projects before they were announced poses obvious risks to public funds. We also found that confidence within the public sector that senior hiring decisions are based on merit has been undermined. While our examination of recruitment did not find partisan stacking of the public service, the justification for some appointments was questionable, and we could easily understand why so many senior figures suspected decisions had been politicised. The notion that the VPS should just implement government policy, not challenge policy or offer new ideas, is a misguided article of political faith. Former agency head These included the frequent appointment of former ministerial staffers without open and advertised processes; often explained by a pressing need to hire someone familiar with government policy to get things done. We found multiple examples of rushed and shoddy recruitment practices, poor record-keeping and opaque selection methods. Perception matters. Not only must merit selection be done, it must be seen to be done.

Disregarding this principle makes it less likely that the public sector will attract and retain capable leaders. The quality and candour of advice upon which important decisions are made will suffer. Confidence in the strict neutrality of public service will be shaken. Perceptions are heightened by the increasing growth and influence of the Premiers Private Office. In 2022 the Victorian premier had roughly as many staffers as the Australian prime minister and New South Wales premier combined. Decisions made in echo chambers, not subject to the scrutiny of expert career officials, do not make for good public administration. While it is impossible to quantify the impact of marginalisation on either the public interest or the public purse, we should all be worried about the trend.

Creeping politicisation is a reality in Victoria, and requires urgent attention. We were also deeply troubled by the number of people who were afraid to speak to us. While the response to our request for submissions was overwhelming, particularly from current and former senior public officials with deep knowledge of the issues we were examining, many more declined to speak on the record. Two sentiments stood out  concern and fear. Concern about what people saw as the quickening corrosion of longstanding Westminster principles of responsible government. Fear that if they spoke up, if they were in any way identifiable as having done so, their careers would be finished. Whatever the truth of the question at the heart of this investigation, that so many people were

concerned and fearful should be a signal to this government that all is not well.

A culture of fear in the upper echelons of the public sector does not support frank and fearless advice. It is disappointing and disturbing that to protect the identities of so many people we were unable to follow some promising lines of inquiry, and the report does not set out the evidence as fully as I would have wished. Loading Restrictions on cabinet documents also prevented other lines of inquiry from being followed to a conclusion. Definitive answers about the early development of the Suburban Rail Loop are shrouded in the fog of cabinet secrecy. Not all departments were alleged to be politicised; tens of thousands of dedicated public servants carry on their business serving the public, and their ministers, without question or controversy. But many people noted a growing pressure to tailor official advice to the preferences of the government of the day. This over-responsiveness appeared more common when major infrastructure development and job creation was the desired political goal, not coincidentally those areas required to deliver major election promises.

What now? Is there a need for reform, and if so, what needs to be done? Neither the current nor the former premier responded to a draft of this report, so I cannot say whether there is any appetite for change within the government, nor indeed if there is any consideration of the need for it. But it seems to me the case for reform is compelling, not only from the individual strands of this investigation, but from the evidence of current and former senior public officials who are deeply troubled by these problems. There will always be a creative tension between an unelected bureaucracy adhering to public sector values and an elected government eager to deliver on its election promises.

That creative tension is a feature and strength of our system of governance. It energises the former and tempers the latter. But good public administration relies on the observance of boundaries, which either are, or are in danger of, being crossed. Loading There are greater issues at play than we could possibly examine fully, including the diminution in at least some areas of government of public service expertise, and the extent to which its traditional advice role is being outsourced to consultants and ministerial advisers. It is also apparent that some of these trends have been continuing for decades under multiple governments of all stripes, and elsewhere around Australia. But nothing will change without a recognition at the highest levels of government that change is necessary.
A criminologist who helped shape the federal governments proposed sexual violence reforms for universities will lead Monash University as its next vice chancellor.

Professor Sharon Pickering is provost at the university, having risen through the ranks from a lecturer, and has worked with governments worldwide to help combat sex trafficking and family violence, conducting fieldwork in Thai refugee camps and on the streets of Belfast.

Criminologist and Monash University provost Sharon Pickering will be the unis next vice chancellor.

Pickering succeeds Professor Margaret Gardner, who left Monash this year to become the 30th governor of Victoria.

While some universities have been pushing back against regulation to govern how they respond to sexual violence, Pickering was part of federal Education Minister Jason Clares stakeholders group that designed the overhaul.
The boss of the truck driver who caused the crash on the Eastern Freeway in which four police died has pleaded guilty to failing to comply with his duty of safety and exposing the officers to a risk of death or injury by allowing his employee to drive.

More than 3 years after the crash, Simiona Tuteru pleaded guilty on Wednesday morning to one charge of failing to comply with his duty under the heavy vehicle laws.

Simiona Tuteru outside court in 2020. Credit: Simon Schluter

The charge stated that despite his duty under these laws, Tuteru engaged in conduct on April 22, 2020, that exposed individuals, including but not limited to [police officers] Lynette Taylor, Kevin King, Glen Humphris, Joshua Prestney and [truck driver] Mohinder Singh to a risk of death or serious injury and the accused was reckless as to that risk.

Tuteru had been charged with knowing that Singh, whom he supervised, was unfit to drive on that day but allowing him to get behind the wheel. Singh, whose semi-trailer crashed into the officers, pleaded guilty to four counts of culpable driving causing death and is serving an 18-year sentence.
A routine day of work experience at Alcoas Kwinana refinery went wrong for a Gilmore College student, who was badly burnt by dangerous chemicals in one of 40 such incidents under the miners watch in less than two years.

Two students from the Kwinana school came into contact with a caustic substance  a chemical able to burn or corrode flesh  on September 16, 2022 during year 12 workplace learning. Two other students and their supervisor were also in attendance.

Alcoa is considering closing its 60-year-old Kwinana alumina refinery. Credit: Bloomberg

An Alcoa spokesman said one student required medical treatment, first from the onsite medical centre and then follow-up treatment until the injuries had healed. The second student did not require treatment.

They were wearing personal protective equipment appropriate for the intended activities being undertaken, he said.
NASA's James Webb Space Telescope has captured a mysterious object that scientists have previously seen. This is the dusty galaxy AzTECC71, which ground-based telescopes have only noticed as a shining spot.

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The Byte has published a study by scientists from the COSMOS-Web JWST project, which aims to map up to one million galaxies to better understand cosmic phenomena. The "ghostly" object was previously captured by NASA's Hubble telescope, but it turned out to be not very powerful.

AzTECC71 is a distant galaxy with new star formation that dates back almost one billion years after the Big Bang.

Scientists believed that such galaxies were extremely rare in the early Universe, but this discovery suggests that they may be three to ten times more common than expected and this dramatically changes the way we think about the Universe.

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According to University of Texas researcher Jed McKinney, AzTECC71 is a real monster, although the galaxy looks like a small drop, it actually forms hundreds of new stars every year.

The fact that the newest telescope cannot capture such a huge phenomenon indicates that there is a whole population of galaxies that humanity has not yet been able to explore.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA published an incredible discovery of scientists that there may be "life zones" on Mercury.

Subscribe to OBOZ.UA channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events.
The advice on timing changed on Wednesday morning. The government plan is to hear from about 70 speakers in the condolence motion and then take a short break late in the afternoon before resuming for the debate on the detention laws at 6.30pm. The government appears to want them passed by 9pm. If these laws are introduced back into the house today to be voted on, it will be a complete perversion of our democracy. Independent MP Kylea Tink If these laws are introduced back into the house today to be voted on, it will be a complete perversion of our democracy and Australians have to stand up and demand that our proper democratic processes are respected and carried through, said Tink, who had scheduled a day of meetings with her constituents on Wednesday. Independent MP Zoe Daniel, who represents Goldstein in Melbourne, is in Canberra but unimpressed with the sudden change.

The government needs to stop giving into the oppositions default position of the politics of fear and make careful law on matters which have profound and important consequences for community safety, but also human rights and the nature of Australian citizenship, Daniel said. To force the house to vote on legislation with no warning, no debate, in the dead of night is the tail wagging the dog and is absolutely not the politics done differently that this government promised. Andrew Wilkie from Clark in Tasmania and Kate Chaney from Curtin in Perth may not be able to take part in the vote. The independent member for Mayo in South Australia, Rebekha Sharkie, said she was told on Tuesday the vote on the detention law would be held on Thursday. For me this whole process has been clumsy, she said.

Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek has defended the governments changes to immigration laws. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Assurances were given yesterday afternoon the earliest debate for the migration bill would be tomorrow. This makes a mockery of the parliament really and disrespectful of members who do not live close by. Wilkie, a crossbencher during the Gillard government as well as nine years of Coalition government, said the rushed law was one of the most shocking disregards of proper parliamentary process he had seen. A number of members will likely be absent from any debate and vote on what are obviously very important matters, he said. And all for a political fix to deny the Opposition a little more time to beat the government up over the fallout from the High Court decision. Sophie Scamps, the independent for Mackellar on the northern beaches of Sydney, said MPs had been told by the government that Wednesday was to be used for the condolence motion for Murphy.

Now we have been told at the last minute that the government plans to introduce its migration detention amendments today, she said. As independents, we take our responsibility to understand legislation before we vote for it very seriously. This sort of rushed process is undemocratic. Independent MP Zali Steggall, who represents Warringah in Sydney, said the damage from the move was greater for those who represented Australians further away from Canberra. Springing these votes on parliament with no notice this evening is not only disrespectful but also sends a message to constituents in seats further than a short flight or drive to Canberra that their voice doesnt matter, she said. Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek told ABCs RN Breakfast on Wednesday morning the stronger laws needed to pass through the lower house in order to protect the community. I can say to the community that community safety is our governments first priority, and thats why weve got the Border Force and AFP [Australian Federal Police] operation, thats why we put a quarter of a billion dollars into these agencies to make sure that theyve got the tools they need to keep Australians safe, Plibersek said.

Coalition frontbencher Simon Birmingham denied the opposition was trying to create fear in the community to score political points from the government. Loading We have had these terrible incidents take place, and is why the government has been negligent at every step [of this], he said. Greens leader Adam Bandt said the government was creating a two-tiered legal system. In Australia, we have a system if you commit a crime, you serve your sentence. After that, if you do anything else wrong, you can get arrested and taken before the court, Bandt said on ABC television on Wednesday morning.
Another example laid bare in the report quoted one of the first callers to the investigations hotline as saying they were shit scared of upsetting the government. Politicisation can take many forms. It is not just the hiring of people with political affiliations. It is also the closing down or marginalisation of apolitical, independent voices, Glass said. A culture of fear in the upper echelons of the public sector does not support frank and fearless advice. The Ombudsman also found that the number of people working in the Victorian premiers office under Andrews surged and was now equal to the combined number of staff working in both the prime ministers office and that of the NSW premier. While the report stopped short of accusing the government of stacking the public service with ALP operatives, Glass said that creeping politicisation was a reality in Victoria and required urgent attention.

Premier Jacinta Allan on Wednesday said the report had made no findings that appointments were political. The inferences that are being drawn by others, the speculation, the shade thrown on a very, very good and strong public sector that we have in Victoria is not just deeply unfair, she said. It is not founded in any evidence that is presented in the ombudsmans report. The report did not name individuals but included identifying details of some public servants caught up in the probe and previously revealed by The Age. It did not directly criticise Victorias 300,000 public service employees. To highlight the marginalisation of the public sector, the report charts the development of the Suburban Rail Loop. It finds it was the brainchild of Tom Considine, a senior executive at the newly formed Development Victoria agency, after he went to a conference on value capture organised by the consultancy firm PwC.

Senior public servants, including long-serving departmental secretary Richard Bolt, were found to have been excluded from consultations on the 90-kilometre orbital rail line, with the government blaming the classified nature of discussions on the need to reduce the risk of land speculation. Loading But Glass slammed that excuse and criticised the government for a growing trend of secrecy and an overreliance on consultants over public servants. She concluded it was eroding the checks and balances required when spending public funds. [The Suburban Rail Loop] was subject to excessive secrecy and proved up by consultants rather than developed by public servants. Its announcement blindsided the agency set up by the same government to remove short-term politics from infrastructure planning, Glass said. The lack of rigorous public sector scrutiny over such projects before they are announced poses obvious risks to public funds.

The ombudsmans office interviewed more than 40 people and received more than 180 submissions as part of its inquiry, which also investigated hiring decisions around the Commonwealth Games and the now-dissolved Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions. Glass recommended a new independent public service chief should appoint senior bureaucrats. She also recommended the overhaul of employment clauses which allow the government to terminate staff at short notice and improvements to minimise cabinet secrecy. Cabinet reforms would help bring Victoria in line with other jurisdictions such as Queensland, which recently vowed to release government papers within weeks of them going to cabinet  not years. Glass said the eight recommendations addressed the need for greater independence in the appointment of public officials and would help reduce the fear some public servants had about speaking out. But nothing will change without a recognition at the highest levels of government that change is necessary, she said.

On Wednesday morning, the Department of Premier and Cabinet secretary, Jeremi Moule, told staff in an email that the ombudsmans report had found no evidence that Victorian public sector appointments have been influenced by partisan political considerations. He said recommendations to improve recruitment and selection would be considered. It is my hope now that the ombudsmans findings will bring to an end unfounded and unfair criticisms of Victorias skilled and dedicated public sector workforce, Moule said. The ombudsmans report reminds us that we must never become complacent in striving for the excellence the government and people of Victoria require of us.

Moule said he and Glass had differing views of the role of his department, which the report said had been criticised by some staff members for its size and influence. I am proud of the work [the department] undertakes every day to support the premier and the cabinet in their service of the people of Victoria, and I know that you are too, he said. Integrity expert Michael Macaulay, from the Victoria University of Wellington, said he was surprised the Victorian public service didnt already have an independent employer of department secretaries as is the case in New Zealand. For a lot of people here in Aotearoa, it just seems like normal practice, Macaulay said, adding that cabinet briefing papers had been in the public domain in New Zealand for more than a decade.

Accountability Roundtable director Stephen Charles urged cabinet to adopt the recommendations. Merit selection in the public service, removing at will termination for senior public servants and a rethink of cabinet confidentiality. All those things are critical, said Charles, who is also retired Court of Appeal judge. Loading The Centre for Public Integritys executive director, Catherine Williams, agreed. The systemic issues which [the report] raises strike at the heart of our system of responsible government, she said. Australian National University professor of public policy Andrew Podger, a former public service commissioner, said the issues raised in the investigation had fermented on both sides of politics over the last two decades. At the very least, the proposals for a more robust appointment process for department secretaries and for a more powerful head of the public service to oversee other senior executive appointments would be important moves  even if we didnt go the full distance of the New Zealand model.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israeli forces were encircling the Khan Younis house of the enclaves Hamas leader Yahya al-Sinwar. His house may not be his fortress and he can escape but its only a matter of time before we get him, Netanyahu said in a recorded video statement. Residents in Khan Younis said Israeli tanks had neared Sinwars home but it was not known whether he or any of his family were there. Israel has said it believed many Hamas leaders and fighters are holed up in underground tunnels. An Israeli army spokesman said it was the mission of the Israeli military to find Sinwar and kill him. As Israel expanded a ground offensive into southern Gaza after largely taking control of the northern half, Palestinian medics said hospitals were overflowing with dead and wounded, many of them women and children, and supplies were running out. Later Netanyahu said his Security Cabinet had approved small deliveries of fuel into the Gaza Strip to prevent a humanitarian crisis and the spread of disease. Nine Palestinians were killed and several others injured in an Israeli bombardment of a house in Rafah, in Gazas far south near the border with Egypt, according to Palestinian medical sources.

Hundreds of thousands of people made homeless in the north were desperately seeking shelter in the diminishing number of places in the south designated as safe areas by Israel. Gazans say there are no truly safe places left, with remaining towns and shelters swamped by displaced people, and Israel bombing areas where it was telling people to go. Israel says it does its utmost to avoid civilian casualties but that Hamas combatants use civilian residential buildings for cover. Hamas denies this. Refugee camp In Geneva, the UN human rights chief said the situation was apocalyptic with the risk that serious rights violations were being committed by both sides. The UN said it was impossible to deliver emergency aid through Gazas southern Rafah border crossing from Egypt.

Israel says its forces have surrounded the home of Yahya Sinwar, head of Hamas in Gaza, centre. Credit: AP Armoured Israeli forces have thrust southwards and surrounded Khan Younis since the collapse of a seven-day truce on December 1. Israel said its forces had struck hundreds of targets, including a militant cell near a school in the north. Hamas armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, said combat was fierce. Residents said Israeli bombing intensified overnight, killing and wounding civilians, and that tanks were battling Palestinian militants north and east of Khan Younis.

Some Palestinians described lucky escapes after their homes were destroyed in an overnight airstrike on the al-Amal neighbourhood of Khan Younis. I swear we dont even know how we made it out alive, said Hamdi Tanira, describing an attack on a house where he said he and about 30 others were sleeping, including 20 children. Another survivor Amal Mehdi said: All of a sudden, the bombardment hit us, you wouldnt know where it came from, it was a miracle that we were pulled from under the rubble. In Gazas heavily urbanised north, tanks, naval boats and warplanes pounded areas of the Jabalia refugee camp  a militant hotbed  as well as roads and houses, according to residents and Hamas media. Smoke rises following an Israeli bombardment in the Gaza Strip. Credit: AP

The Washington-based Institute for the Study of War said Hamas fighters were using improvised explosive devices and anti-personnel mines in a shift of tactics as the fighting transitioned to close ground combat. Death toll Israel unleashed its military campaign in response to an attack on October 7 by Hamas fighters who rampaged through Israeli towns, killing 1200 people and seizing 240 hostages, according to Israels tally. Figures relayed by Gazas Health Ministry put the death toll in Gaza since then at 16,015, including 43 reported by one hospital on Tuesday and 73 by another on Wednesday. But Reuters has since Monday been unable to reach the ministry spokesperson who has provided daily casualty updates for all of Gaza, leaving it unclear whether the new overall toll was comprehensive.

Israel said on Wednesday that 85 of its soldiers had been killed since its armoured forces invaded Gaza five weeks ago. Colonel Moshe Tetro, an Israeli humanitarian affairs officer, said the military had been telling civilians in advance to evacuate from areas of Khan Younis where it plans to operate, using phone messages, online statements and leaflets. Loading Displaced people sheltering near the border said they feared Israel would try to force them into Egypt but that they would not go. This is the last destination, if they want to deport us by force, we will not leave. We would rather die in our place, said one man who, with his companions, was sleeping rough. They did not even have tents.
if the people of Biafra want Republic of Biafra, it will be a reality during my administration. ----Donald Trump Donald Trump I wi...
Security Service of Ukraine officers are responsible for the elimination of Oleh Popov, a "deputy" in the quasi-republic of Luhansk, in the center of the occupied city. The so-called politician, who was, in fact, a militant and assistant to war criminals, was a legitimate target for law enforcement.

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This information was disclosed by sources within the law enforcement structure to OBOZ.UA. Before acquiring the "mandate," Popov had overseen numerous Russian volunteer battalions, led illegal armed groups, and participated in the killing of Ukrainians.

"In addition, this character was the head of the Committee on State Security and Defense. The explosion of the head is the best advertisement for the effectiveness of this committee," our sources ironically summarized.

As a reminder, Popov's car, with him inside, exploded on December 6. Initially, propaganda outlets claimed that the pseudo-deputy was injured but survived, yet the lethal consequences of the explosion for the militant could not be concealed.

As OBOZ.UA previously reported, rumors about Popov's assassination in the "Luhansk People's Republic" had been circulating last fall. However, details of the assassination attempt were not disclosed at the time and were not confirmed.

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Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The ambitious mission of the American aerospace agency NASA, in which people are supposed to land on the Moon again, is being postponed if not completely failing. All because of disappointing audit results.

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According to Cosmos Magazine, the audit was conducted by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) and came to a whole list of disappointing conclusions. The plan to land a manned mission on the surface of the Earth's natural satellite in 2025 was called "unrealistic" by the US Congressional Investigative Unit.

According to NASA's intentions, the three missions of the Artemis project should not only return humanity to the Moon but also create a base for scientific research on its surface. Last year, the first flight was successful. Experts launched the Orion spacecraft into lunar orbit.

Artemis II is next on the plan. In November 2024, it will deliver astronauts to the satellite's orbit. Then Artemis III was supposed to land on its surface in December 2025.

However, GAO experts found that internal and contractor problems prevented the completion of all processes on time. Many of them arise in the development of the lunar vehicle and spacesuits. Thus, the US government considers it unlikely that humans will return to the moon in December 2025.

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The report states that NASA's "ambitious schedule" is 13 months shorter than the average schedule for the agency's largest projects. The Accounting Chamber considers its implementation unrealistic. "The complexity of manned spaceflight means that it is unrealistic to expect the program to complete development more than a year faster than the average for major NASA projects, most of which are not manned spaceflight projects," the document says.

Delays have also been observed in the development of the Human Landing System (HLS), which is supposed to deliver astronauts to the lunar surface and then return them to the Orion spacecraft. The contract for the supply of this system worth $1.15 billion was awarded to Elon Musk's SpaceX. It is expected to be a modified version of the Starship system, which is also being tested for Mars exploration. But so far, 8 of the 13 key stages of Starship HLS development have been postponed. Two orbital flight tests have also failed. Thus, the company has a significant amount of work to do on the lunar landing project.

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But SpaceX is not the only contractor that is barely meeting the established schedules. Axiom Space, which was tasked with developing highly specialized spacesuits for NASA astronauts, still has "significant work to do," according to the GAO. In particular, its engineers need to address existing design issues, including changes to create the "minimum amount of emergency life support" required for the mission.

According to the Accounting Chamber's forecast, Artemis III will be able to launch no earlier than a year further from the schedule. The US government considers the beginning of 2027 to be a relatively realistic date.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA told about the Chinese rocket with a mysterious cargo that fell to the surface of the Moon.

Subscribe to OBOZ.UA on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events.
A Russian citizen was forced to wait at Warsaw Airport for four days, not allowed to leave the terminal. The Russian woman was traveling from Cyprus to the Kaliningrad region: in Poland, she was supposed to change planes and take a bus.

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However, having violated the rules, the woman could not even leave the building. This was reported by propaganda media.

Russians are not allowed to visit Poland as tourists, but they are allowed to cross the border if they have a Schengen visa and a number of other documents. But there is one caveat: only those Russian citizens who have special reasons, such as a work invitation, can enter the country through the external border of the Schengen zone. As for entry from other Schengen states, no valid reasons are required.

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The Russian woman chose the first option without hesitation, so she was forced to reap the rewards of her decisions. At the passport control, the border guards succinctly put the woman in her place, saying that she had to return to Paphos. The next return flight was scheduled for four days later.

According to the "lucky lady," her passport was taken away and she was transferred to the departure area. An airline representative brought her dinner: pasta with minced meat and two bottles of water. Later, a new shift took over, so everyone forgot about the Russian woman. "No one cares about me," she commented.

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An all-inclusive was waiting for the tourist - a toilet and a blanket to sit on metal chairs in the waiting area. There were no shops or cafes in the "corner", so the Russian woman had to make do with what she had. The woman appealed to the Russian Embassy in Poland, but, according to her, they could not help.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA told about how a pensioner was fined $3000 at the airport because of a chicken and salad sandwich.

Only verified information is available on the Obozrevatel Telegram channel and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
The death of former MP Illia Kyva has been confirmed by OBOZ.UA sources. According to them, the special operation to eliminate the traitor was organized by the Security Service of Ukraine.

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This information was provided by the interlocutors of our publication on condition of anonymity. The individual was neutralized using small arms.

The demise of the former Ukrainian politician, who had aligned himself with Russia, was initially reported by Russian media. On Wednesday evening, December 6, they reported that Kyva was found dead in the Moscow region. The body was allegedly discovered in a cottage village near Odintsovo.

Kyva was born in Poltava on June 2, 1977. He was a member of the Verkhovna Rada of the IX convocation. According to media reports, he left the territory of Ukraine on January 30, 2022. He first went to Spain and from there to the Russian capital, Moscow.
By Catherine Sas, K.C.

and Andrew Borchert, Articled Student

Special to The Post

On November 16, 2023, the Province of British Columbia (the Province) announced the prioritization of 25 construction occupations through the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). The BC PNP is an economic selection program that provides an opportunity for employers to nominate workers who seek to immigrate to British Columbia (BC). Let's see how employers and construction workers can benefit from this new BC PNP priority program.

Construction workers in these select occupations must have a valid B.C. trades qualification, which includes either a valid trade certificate issued by or an apprenticeship registered with, SkilledTradesBC.

Prioritizing construction occupations in the BC PNP supports the Province's Homes for People action plan (HFP). The HFP aims to improve housing affordability, in part, by meeting the demand to build more residential housing and infrastructure. Facilitating PR for construction workers is intended to reduce labour supply shortages in BC's construction industry, enhance further home construction and increase the housing supply and infrastructure in BC.

There are 6 steps to obtain PR through BC PNP. First, an applicant must register through BCPNP Online. Second, an applicant will receive a points score based on a variety of factors, including directly related work experience, level of education, proficiency in English or French, the hourly wage of the job offer in BC, and the area of employment in BC. Third, the applicant receives an invitation to apply (ITA) for nomination. Fourth, after receiving ITA, an applicant has 30 days to apply for provincial nomination. Fifth, the worker will receive a BC PNP nomination certificate to apply for PR. Sixth, the worker will become a permanent resident of Canada.

The Provinces announcement to prioritize PR for select construction workers is encouraging news for BC employers who struggle to find skilled labour in the construction industry. Prioritizing the construction sector also supports the Provinces broader initiative to make housing more affordable in BC. Both employers and construction workers alike benefit from the Province deeming the construction industry as a BC PNP priority program.

Catherine Sas, K.C. has over 30 years of legal experience. She provides a full range of immigration services and is a leading immigration practitioner (Lexpert, Whos Who Legal, Best Lawyers in Canada). Go to canadian-visa-lawyer.com or email [email protected].
...meanwhile both parties in brainstorming sessions

By Bhavana Aparajita

Shukla

Political temperature in the State continued to soar high on Tuesday. Graph of rumours also grabbing lime light. Even as many bigwigs from BJP are in Delhi as the party after the thumping victory in the State, the talks of next Chief Minister are making rounds in the State capital. In this race, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhans name is ahead of other claimants. Although Chouhan has said that he was never in CMs race. As a large section of the State party believes that Chouhan may remain the Chief Minister at least till the next Lok Sabha polls, which may be less than six months away, others believe that the 166 seats won by the party- 47 more than the 116 needed for a majority.

This may give the partys central leadership to think otherwise since the party didnt project any CMs face in elections. The other names doing the rounds are Union ministers Prahlad Singh Patel and Jyotiraditya Scindia, BJP National General Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya and Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar. On Tuesday, State BJP President V D Sharma met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi. During his tour to the national capital, the State BJP chief also made a visit to party President J P Nadda and senior leader Piyush Goyal at his office in Delhi.

Congress:-

On the other hand, the Pradesh Congress Committee has held a meeting of party candidates in the elections at Bhopal office. It was addressed by PCC chief Kamal Nath. In this meeting, both the candidates who have won the elections and lost have participated. According to highly placed sources it was a review meeting. There are reports that Kamal Nath is likely to meet Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge soon and may tender his resignation as Madhya Pradesh Congress chief, two days after the partys debacle in the Assembly election. Notably, the election was fought under the leadership of Kamal Nath and former Chief Minister Digvijay Singh has also played a crucial role in these elections. The BJP has made a stunning comeback winning 163 seats in the 230-members House.
Apt action Illegal chowpatty razed





Staff Reporter

RAIPUR,

The victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Chhattisgarh Assembly elections has triggered a wave of changes in the capital city Raipur. The Raipur Municipal Corporation (RMC), supported by the police administration, on Tuesday initiated a crackdown on an illegally operating Chowpatty near Salem School in Motibagh and near Science College Raipur. However, this move met with resistance from local shopkeepers who allege lack of prior notice. The illegally running Chowpatty has been a source of contention, with shopkeepers setting up stalls along the road, causing traffic congestion. Responding to this, the RMC, accompanied by law enforcement, launched an operation to clear the area. The presence of a significant police force indicated the sensitivity of the situation. Shopkeepers, taken by surprise, voiced their opposition to the unannounced action by the RMC. They argued that the Corporation team arrived without prior information, raising concerns about the lack of communication and transparency in the process.

Opposition to the illegal Chowpatty extends beyond the shopkeepers, as students from Salem Girls School, located opposite Motibagh, staged a protest demanding the immediate removal of the encroachments. The students highlighted the adverse effects on their studies due to the presence of more than 50 fast food shops operating until late at night. Complaints include loud gatherings, abusive behaviour, trespassing, and the disposal of empty liquor bottles in the school premises. Residents in the vicinity also complain about the constant smoke and foul smell emanating from the chicken and mutton shops in Chowpatty. The adverse impact on the local environment has been a cause for concern among the affected population.

The report suggests that public representatives from the Corporation wield significant influence, impeding the actions of district and police officers. Street vendors, particularly those selling gram, peas, and bhel, were reportedly displaced under pressure from chicken shopkeepers. The move was orchestrated to protect the interests of certain groups and maintain control over the street vending landscape. The clash over the illegal Chowpatty in Raipur reflects the challenges faced by the local administration in balancing the interests of different stakeholders. The BJP-led Municipal Corporations attempt to reclaim public spaces is met with resistance from shopkeepers and raises questions about the broader issues of governance, transparency, and the influence of vested interests in the region. The evolving situation underscores the need for a nuanced approach to urban management that addresses the concerns of both residents and businesses.
BJP Gears up for 2024 General Elections





By Bhavana Aparajita

Shukla

State BJP organisation has geared up for upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Enthusiastic BJP workers as well as leaders who are celebrating the partys resounding victory in Assembly elections, are being asked to attend meetings at their respective offices. BJP State President and MP V D Sharma, who has been praised for his organisational prowess and relentless efforts especially to strengthen booths, spoke to The Hitavada, before proceeding for Delhi, claimed In General Elections 2024, the party will target 51 per cent vote share. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shahjis guidance party has won Assembly elections. The unprecedented victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party in the Assembly elections has brought great success to India. A new history has been created in politics. Amit Shahji had given us the target of 51 per cent vote, we have made progress in this direction and got 49 per cent in Assembly elections. I am proud that with the work of booth-level workers of the BJP, we are fulfilling the resolution of 51% voting in every booth. I am proud of BJP workers, people have blessed PM Modi and in Lok Sabha elections we will attain the target set by Chanakya of Modern Indian politics.

The Modi campaign (Har Booth Par Modi) will be run in 64,523 booths of the State. Sharma attributed success to implementation of welfare schemes and developmental work. The people have blessed BJP with an overwhelming majority in the Assembly elections. We have managed to get 49 per cent votes and we will continue to achieve the task relentlessly. He further said that BJPs double engine government, strategy and collective leadership led to historic victory under the leadership of Modi ji. We had said Madhya Pradesh Ke Mann Mein Modi Aur Modi Ke Mann Mein Madhya Pradesh- people blessed this drive. The double engine government will continue to take the State forward on the journey of development under the leadership of Modiji. The booths where the performance was not up to the expectations, will be reviewed and necessary steps will be taken for improvement. As far as number of seats in Lok Sabha are considered, BJP will win all the 29 seats with collective efforts and following Union Home Minister Amit Shahjis strategy. He also mentioned that the workers have done a wonderful job by playing their role as an ideal worker. From Pramukh to Committee, Booth Committee, Mandal workers and teams from district to province have worked together.

He also mentioned about losers in this election, he said the party stands with those who due to some reason lost the election by a very small margin. Failure proves that we need to make more efforts to achieve success. Minorities expressed confidence in Modi ji. Bharatiya Janata Party got this historic victory due to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modiji and the modern Chanakya of Indian politics and the efficient strategy of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the guidance of the partys National President Jagat Prakash Naddaji. Senior leadership of the State, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, State Election Incharge Bhupendra Yadav, Union Minister and Convener of State Election Management Committee Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister and State Election Co-incharge Ashwini Vaishnav, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Prahlad Patel hearty congratulations to the collective leadership of all the senior leaders of BJP including Faggan Singh Kulaste, National General Secretary of the party Kailash Vijayvargiya, State Minister Dr Narottam Mishra that due to their efforts the party has got a historic majority in the Assembly elections. The mantra given by Prime Minister Modi in Bhopal to the workers of 10 lakh booths across the country to win the booth under the Mera Booth Sabse Majboot campaign, workers of the party have brought it in reality.

The way the people of the State have blessed the Bharatiya Janata Party in the elections, it shows that the people of Madhya Pradesh have already decided to see Modi, the Prime Minister of the country again in 2024. Sharma said that in Madhya Pradesh, Bharatiya Janata Party has contested the elections with collective leadership and each and every worker of the party has continuously worked at the grassroots level to get a historic majority for the party. welfare schemes run under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whether it is providing houses to 64 lakh families under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana or free food grains per person to crores of people of the country under the Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana or Ayushman Bharat. Under the scheme, there should be a scheme to provide free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh to poor families. Due to welfare schemes of the Central Government, work has been done to uplift the lives of around 1 crore 36 lakh people of the state above the poverty line. Under the Ladli Lakshmi scheme, 45 lakh daughters have been benefited. Terming Congress leader Digvijay Singh Mr Bantadhar, Sharma said that he had brought the State under the category of BIMARU State, till the year 2003.
The British Film Institute has created a list of 101 films that are considered "hidden gems" of cinema. Most of them did not become sensations, but were highly appreciated by professionals in the industry. The rating also includes a film by Ukrainian director Kira Muratova, who died in 2018.

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The 2002 film Chekhov's Motifs is based on the short story Difficult People and the play Tatiana Repina. This and hundreds of other little-known film projects are available on the BFI website.

Muratova's film was included in the list of "hidden gems" by the famous British director Mark Cousins. By the way, he supports Ukrainians in the war with Russia, and in 2023 he came to Kyiv for the 20th anniversary of the Docudays UA Human Rights Documentary Film Festival.

"At the age of sixty, the controversial Ukrainian director Kira Muratova has made this, her 16th film, and it is another masterpiece. In the first half, a family is arguing at the table. One of their adult children keeps asking for more money for college. The second part is a long wedding scene, shot as beautifully as von Sternberg's black-and-white films. But there is a dead ex-girlfriend of the groom, and it's a Fellini-Bunuel-style absurdity," the Briton described the Ukrainian film.

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He called Chekhov's Motifs another "provocative" work by the director, which makes you "want to fall in love and run away."

The main role in the film is played by Ukrainian film and theater actress, Honored Artist of Ukraine Natalia Bulko.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA wrote that on November 1, for the first time in history, a Ukrainian series was premiered on the popular American streaming platform Netflix. However, it was not without scandal.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
BJP workers protest attack on colleague





Staff Reporter

BJP workers sat on strike in protest against the attack on a senior party worker in Shahjahanabad area of the State capital on Tuesday. During protest, the party workers blocked the road at Iqbal Maidan for about one-and-a half-hours from 12 noon. Addressing workers, Alok Sharma, former Bhopal Mayor, said that there has been a deadly attack on our senior worker Bhagwandas Dalia. At the time of the attack, the accused said that our brother Atif Arif Aqueel has won, now you will have to pay hafta. I have this video. In this way, efforts are being made to spoil the atmosphere of the city. We will not tolerate this, we are not afraid. Now there is BJP government, there will be no place for goons and miscreants in old Bhopal.
Dawoodi Bohra sect head Dr. Syedna conferred with Nishan-e-Pakistan





ISLAMABAD,

DR. SYEDNA Mufaddal Saifuddin, head of the Dawoodi Bohra sect of Islam, was on Tuesday conferred with Nishan-e-Pakistan, the highest civilian award of Pakistan. President Dr. Arif Alvi conferred the award of Nishan-e-Pakistan upon Dr. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, Head of the Dawoodi Bohra community, at a special investiture ceremony, held at Aiwan-e-Sadr, the Presidents office said in a post on X. Dr Saifuddin, the head of the Mumbai-headquartered Dawoodi Bohra community spread across over 40 countries, including a sizeable congregation in Pakistan, is the 53rd Dai al-Mutlaq of the order. The Dawoodi Bohras carry out developmental works to benefit the underprivileged in all these countries.

Nishan-e-Pakistan is the highest civilian honour awarded for services of the highest distinction to the national interest of Pakistan. The award, conferred at a special investiture ceremony, recognises 77-year-old Saifuddins services to Pakistan in the field of spiritual guidance and social services, Geo News reported. The Bohra community head holds a special regard for Pakistan and is an advocate of peace, harmony and goodwill, read the citation read out before the conferment of the award. Recounting his services in the education sector, it was said that he had contributed to the building of the School of Law at the University of Karachi and launched a university project. Multiple healthcare institutions are operating in the name of the Bohra community head providing affordable healthcare to people.

Separately, caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar met the Dawoodi Bohra community head and lauded the communitys services for the progress of the country. The premier felicitated Dr Saifuddin on being awarded the countrys highest civil award and expressed confidence that the Bohra community would continue to play their role in the progress and development of the country. Each year, the announcement of awards is made on August 14, Pakistans Independence Day, and the awards are conferred next year on Pakistan National Day, observed on March 23. But in special cases, these dates are not followed and the investiture can be arranged anytime.
Dilapidated Bhide Wada razed to make way for national memorial





PUNE,

A MONTH after court orders, the Pune Municipal Corporation in the early hours of Tuesday razed the dilapidated structure of Bhide Wada, where social reformer Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and his wife Savitribai Phule started the first school for girls in 1848. The civic body plans to build a national memorial dedicated to the social reformer couple at the site, officials said. Local people and traders had refused to vacate the place and moved court. Bhide Wada is located in Budhwar Peth area of Pune.

The Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court recently cleared the way for the PMC to build the national memorial at the site and ordered shop owners and tenants at the dilapidated structure to vacate the premises. The structure, spread over more than 2,700 sq ft, was razed in the early hours of Tuesday. The court had given the tenants and shopkeepers a months time, which ended on December 2, PMCs Additional Commissioner Vikas Dhakne said. On December 4, they were again issued the notices and at midnight, forceful eviction action was carried out and the structure, which was dilapidated, was razed, he said.

Currently, the site is being cleared, the official said. We will be submitting three designs from three different architects to the PMC Commissioner. A final decision will be made and the work of the national memorial will start, he said. A large police force was deployed in the area as the civic body moved to raze the structure. It was completely demolished sometime after midnight. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 1) Sandip Singh Gill said since the PMC did not get possession of the property despite issuing notices to the tenants and shop owners, it had written to the police for security personnel to be deployed during the action.
Employees of Super Specialty Hospital, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Medical Education warn of strike





Staff Reporter

Employees associated with Super Specialty Hospital, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Medical Education under Ayushman Yojana, are still deprived of Ayushman Yojana. Meanwhile, incentive funds of Ayushman Yojana are being released in Super Specialty Hospital in other medical colleges in Madhya Pradesh. President, Madhya Pradesh Class III Government Employee Association, Virendra Tiwari informed that the employees posted only in NSCBMCH Super Specialty Hospital have been kept deprived of benefits. Tiwari further informed that the Commissioner Medical Education issued clear instructions to the Vice-chancellor to ensure benefits for all the pharmacists under Ayushman Yojana.

The employees who are dedicated in the service of patients concerned with Ayushman, they all should be benefitted with honorarium under Ayushman Yojana. Following the same, the Association members handed over a memorandum to the Director, Super Specialty and warned the Management to go for demonstration if their demands are not fulfilled within 10 days. Those who were present while handing over memorandum include Neetu Kori, Rajni Bharti, Arpit Singh Chandel, Kuntima Rawat, Ravikant Pawar, Parmanand Rangare and others.
India to provide USD 250 mn Line of Credit to Kenya





NEW DELHI,

INDIA on Tuesday announced a USD 250 million line of credit to Kenya for modernisation of its agricultural sector as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto agreed to shore up bilateral ties in areas of defence, trade, energy, digital public infrastructure and healthcare. Following the Modi-Ruto talks, the two sides signed five pacts providing for cooperation in a range of areas including sports, education and digital solution, and unveiled a joint vision document to scale up maritime engagement in the Indian Ocean region.

The Kenyan side offered, in line with Kenyan laws, to provide land to Indian companies and institutions for cultivation of crops, including millets. In order to enhance bilateral economic engagement as well as to finance projects under development partnership, the two leaders also discussed the need to use local currencies for trade. India on Tuesday raised with Kenya the issue of two Indian nationals who went missing in the east African country in July last year. The missing Indians were identified as Zulfiqar Ahmad Khan and Zaid Sami Kidwai. There were reports that they were abducted. India flagged its concerns over the two missing Indians during delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto, according to officials.

In his media statement, Modi said India has been a reliable and committed development partner for Kenya and that New Delhi is fully prepared to share its achievements in digital public infrastructure with the east African nation. As two agrarian economies, we agreed to share our experiences. We have also decided to provide a LoC of USD 250 million to modernise Kenyas agricultural sector, he said. At a media briefing, Dammu Ravi, secretary (economic relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs, said the Kenyan side offered land for farming by Indian companies under a cooperative model.
Promise and perils of AI





By D C Pathak

The major threats associated with AI range from breach of data privacy to interference in elections, from destruction of critical infrastructure particularly in the energy sector to pandemic preparedness and from misuse of biological material to creating instruments of repression

AS THE debate on whether Artificial Intelligence (AI) is more of a threat than a technological advancement came to a head, US President Joe Biden issued a wide-ranging Executive Order on October 30 clearly warning against the dangers posed by AI, particularly in the areas of development of devastating weapons of destruction and cyber attacks. The order went on to define the framework of strong intervention by the Federal Government -- should it become necessary for ensuring AI Safety, Security and Trust -- by way of monitoring companies in the business of developing AI products and taking even coercive action under the old Defence Productions Act to compel abandonment of a given initiative of the enterprise. This move has been made also in the context of the Government being a key funder of scientific research in the US. The major threats associated with AI range from breach of data privacy to interference in elections, from destruction of critical infrastructure particularly in the energy sector to pandemic preparedness and from misuse of biological material to creating instruments of repression. American administration officials have talked of Chinese-sponsored research devoted to exploring ways of disrupting critical communications infrastructure between the US and Asia.

It was clear - judging from the fact that Social Media had already become an instrument of combat - that AI representing an ultimate advance of IT would tempt countries and players to develop it for newer versions of proxy wars as well as for weapon automatisation. Interestingly, AI-based deepfakes - designed, among other things, to influence the electorate, defame leaders and dignitaries and create public discords - are already operating in the Indian context. Algorithmic bias can be caused by misusing data to create socio-economic inequality, market volatility and communal friction. Geoffrey Hinton known for his work on machine learning and neural networks has reportedly talked of dangers from AI while Elon Musk along with many other tech leaders has warned in an open letter that uncontrolled AI experiments could pose profound risks to society and humanity. India is at the forefront of global efforts to facilitate the legitimate growth of AI for the larger good of the world without letting it produce any destructive fallout. In the run-up to the G20 Summit in Delhi last September, the security establishment was able to bank on the Facial Recognition System relying on AI-based cameras.

AI was an important talk point at the Delhi G20 meet. The potential of generative AI in making an economic impact on the world was examined and some concerns were raised about possible job loss especially white-collar jobs resulting from AI applications. It can be clearly seen that without cutting jobs, businesses can use AI to improve efficiency and productivity. The need for global AI regulations will be an important matter on the agenda of the next G20 in Brazil. The Delhi G20 summit discussed how to harness AI for economic development while protecting human rights and suggested that there is a need for global oversight of this rapidly evolving technology. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Biden had bilateral talks on the eve of the G20 summit at the Prime Ministers residence on September 8 to expand cooperation between the two countries in emerging domains like AI and Space. This has brought Indo-US relations to an entirely new level of strategic friendship. Prime Minister Modi has called for expanding ethical AI and stipulated that even though AI had associated risks it had proven to be an enabler of the digital and innovation ecosystem. More recently, AI figured prominently in the talks between US President Biden and President Xi Jinping of China held in San Francisco on November 15 during the APEC conference.

Just as IT applications made human processes more efficient with computerisation, AI makes IT applications smarter - being smart means being able to produce more per unit of resource whether the resource is money, manpower or time. Indian industries are well prepared to use AI - technological services, finance and retail are switching over to AI regime faster than sectors like media & communications, education, transport etc but India on the whole is moving in that direction more speedily than many other nations. AI is the ability of a system or a programme to think and learn from experience. Machine learning and deep learning techniques are based on vast volumes of data being analysed instantly for making intelligent decisions or solving specific problems. For economic companies, AI is helpful in reducing credit card fraud by examining the users patterns. AI can identify fake reviews. People leverage the strength of AI because the work they need to carry out on a daily basis is increasing all the time. Apart from personal usage, facial recognition is now a widely used AI application in high-security areas in several industries. AI identifies illegal access. Machine learning allows for the detection of even minor abnormalities and can point to anything that is wrong with the system. AI, however, has to still advance a lot in areas such as language processing, creativity, problem-solving, comprehension of subtleties and evaluation of human output. AI is essentially a computer process - it is basically adding layers of 1s and 0s amazingly fast.

Binary calculations do not create a soul and as an analyst said - the within of the computer and the human is not the same. Analytical thinking, human consciousness and emotional intelligence place the human brain on a different footing that was not available to computers. At the end of it, AI worked on pattern reading and word recognition and was governed by the input-output principle. AI can improve business growth and expansion, advance the cause of education and health, reform governance with particular reference to the implementation of welfare schemes, make the organisational working more transparent and ethical and help to enrich everybodys lifestyle. Exercise of human judgement will be necessary in crucial areas ranging from dispensing justice to the responsibility of pressing the nuclear button. In the final analysis, it is to be realised that any technology- because of its public profile- would be used for the good of humanity but was also available to the malcontents ranging from non-state actors like terrorists to ruthless dictators who did not think of anything beyond their personal power.
Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena chief Gogamedi shot dead





JAIPUR,

RIGHT-WING group Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Senas president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi was shot dead in the living room of his house here on Tuesday by three armed men, one of whom was also killed in retaliatory firing, police said. One of Gogamedis security guards sustained bullet injuries in the exchange of fire with the assailants, who had gone to his house in the Shyam Nagar area on the pretext of meeting him, they said. The incident was caught on CCTV of his home. Gogamedi formed Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena after he was expelled from Sri Rajput Karni Sena in 2015 over differences with its founder Lokendra Singh Kalvi. Both these outfits had protested against Deepika Padukone starrer Padmaavat in 2018 over alleged distortion of historical facts about the Rajput community.

Jaipur Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph told reporters, Three men went to Gogamedis house and told his security guards that they wanted to meet him. The guards took them inside and the men talked to Gogamedi for 10 minutes before opening fire at him. While one of the assailants, who was identified as Naveen Singh Shekhawat, died in the exchange of fire, the remaining two managed to flee on a scooty they snatched from a person outside Gogamedis house, he said. One of Gogamedis security guards was injured in the firing and has been admitted to the ICU of a hospital, he added. The entire incident was captured on CCTV. We are trying to identify and trace the other two accused. Those involved in the planning of the murder will also be caught, Joseph said.

According to preliminary information, Shekhawat used to run a shop, he said. Soon after the news of the attack on Gogamedi broke, his supporters and members of the Rajput community started reaching his house and the hospital where he was taken. One of Gogamedis relatives told reporters outside the hospital that he had been receiving threats for a long time and feared an attack. He claimed police had been informed about the threats. Gogamedis supporters blocked the Shipra Path road outside the hospital where he was rushed after the attack and demanded that the accused be arrested immediately.
WISE COUNSEL





PRIME Minister Mr. Narendra Modi has done well to offer a wise counsel to the Opposition to learn the right lesson from the outcome of the recent legislative elections when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) grabbed as many as three of the five States that went to polls. At the start of the Winter Session of Parliament, the Prime Minister advised the Opposition parties not to vent their frustration in the House and disturb the proceedings -- since such a behaviour earlier has cost them a lot electorally. Mr. Modi also urged the Opposition to analyse calmly what has led to their defeat in the recent elections and understand that pro-people and pro-poor policies and politics is the key to running the country well. It is both -- fathomable and unfathomable -- to assess how the Opposition will respond or react to the Prime Ministers advice. It is more likely than not that the collective Opposition will mount an attack on the Prime Minister for giving an unsolicited advice as part of his oneupmanship. This can be surmised from some statements of a few Opposition leaders accusing the BJP of manipulating the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). True, they would have nothing as an answer if the same charge could be levelled against the Congress party in Telangana.

This issue has long back been sorted out, but the Opposition parties have not ceased making baseless allegations in this regard. The point here is about the attitude the Opposition has harboured towards the BJPs continued electoral success. They are unwilling to accept the unmatched organisational muscle the BJP has built over time and the pro-people policies of the Modi Government that attract the electorate to the party. True, the BJP has suffered some setbacks, too, in the past many years. But its overall electoral performance has been far better than that of the collective Opposition -- which is proved by sheer numbers at all levels. Yet, the Opposition has refused to see truth as truth as it is and has tried to add some ugly colouration to it by way of baseless and deliberately falsified propaganda against the Prime Minister and his Government. The Prime Ministers advice to the Opposition has to be viewed against this background. It was obvious that Mr. Narendra Modi was not trying to rectify the Opposition per se but is trying to effect a course-correction in the countrys public discourse so that future elections are fought on saner grounds in the larger interest of the people and the nation.

Sarcastically speaking, it may be in the BJPs and the Prime Ministers political interest if the collective Opposition continues making mistakes so that the political advantage flows in their favour. Despite this, Mr. Narendra Modi has sought to offer a word of wisdom and caution to the collective Opposition so that it -- the Opposition -- feels compelled to think more calmly and wisely and correct its own thought and action. In the short run, this stance of the Prime Ministers may be categorised as over-zealousness. In the long run, however, the Prime Minister may be looking for the distant benefit of having course-corrected the national discourse towards a desirable nationalist perspective. If that really happens, the nation at large will stand benefitted. If the Opposition takes an umbrage, then it will be the loser as always. By offering a so-called unsolicited advice, Mr. Modi has played a shrewd and always-winning stroke. No matter how the Opposition reacts to his advice, it will always look like a loser and the Prime Minister always a gainer. If the Opposition understands the spirit, then the nation will finally benefit.


[Photo/VCG]

The year of 2023 marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the European Union, and this year the 24th China-EU Summit on Dec 7 will return to offline sessions for the first time since 2019.

In June 2023, the EU unveiled its Joint Communication on a European Economic Security Strategy, emphasizing a three-pronged approach in its relations with China. It formally introduced de-risking as a strategic approach toward China, aiming to enhance Europes independence in critical technological areas and raw materials supply, as well as the autonomy of production chains, considering them as serious threats to European economic security. This move seeks to diminish the capabilities of strategic competitors like China while maintaining cooperation in the majority of goods and services trade between China and Europe. It is essential to note that this approach does not imply complete decoupling.

Currently, Sino-European relations confront challenges amid geopolitical competition. The European strategy toward China, particularly its emphasis on risk reduction, may intensify tensions between China and Europe, posing challenges to practical cooperation between the two sides.

In essence, de-risking reflects a form of trade protectionism that contradicts the principles of market economy and free trade rules. Fears among EU member states stemming from Chinas substantial trade surplus has made them attribute it to what they perceive as Chinas strong government intervention. Consequently, the EU has gradually implemented restrictive measures on Chinas high-tech industries, such as limitations on importing chip materials and launching anti-subsidy investigations into low-cost Chinese electric vehicles. These actions aim to curb the development of Chinese enterprises in Europe.

From a formal perspective, the EUs de-risking policy largely appears to blindly follow the diplomatic route of the United States, which doesnt align with European interests. Despite the US and Europe different positions on China, there is a gradual convergence in rhetoric, and both sides are leveraging their dominant international mechanisms globally to collaboratively advance the de-risking process against China. This implies that Europe is compelled to sacrifice its own interests in China to serve the strategic objectives of the US. Undoubtedly, this compromises the strategic autonomy emphasized by the EU, proving detrimental to the development of friendly EU-China relations and the realization of each countrys individual interests in the international community.

From the perspective of outcomes, the de-risking policy not only fails to alleviate the security concerns that the EU harbors but also inflicts a significant blow to the collaborative relationship between China and Europe, introducing substantial risks to the deeply intertwined global economy. The core of the EUs de-risking lies in the economic domain. The strategy underscores the need for the EU to enhance its competitiveness, strengthen the unity of the European market, and intensify efforts in human capital and skill development. The EU seeks to maintain its leading position in the fields of health, digital, and clean technologies, aiming to mitigate risks associated with dependence on a single supply source.

In the present context, where China plays a prominent role in global economic growth, reducing economic ties with China would exacerbate the challenges of addressing the sluggish recovery of the world economy. This approach represents a disruption to international cooperation, undermining the previously established cooperative ecosystem and preventing the international community from rallying collective efforts to tackle global risks. The EU should adapt to the current situation and, in various domains, propel the deepening of cooperation with China.

First, cooperation between China and the EU is a pragmatic move and a significant boon for EU member states. There is no consensus among EU member states on the de-risking policy. Instead, internal disagreements exist over its perceived radical and hasty nature. Some argue for a more open attitude toward engaging and cooperating with China. The burgeoning collaboration in the Chinese-German new energy vehicle industry and comprehensive cooperation in the aviation manufacturing and materials sector between China and France exemplify the positive dynamics. The positive interactions between the two major economies in the EU can play a leading role in fostering China-EU cooperation. Additionally, the EU should break free from political and ideological constraints, redefining Chinas international role and the China-EU partnership. It should fully recognize Chinas commitment to initiatives such as the Belt and Road, the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind, and global development proposals that reflect a responsible approach by a major nation willing to share development benefits with the world.

Capitalizing on the precious opportunity presented by the upcoming leadership summit, and leveraging the growing consensus on deepening economic and trade cooperation between China and Germany, as well as the supportive forces within the European Parliament, efforts should be made to restart the Comprehensive Agreement on Investment. This could open a new chapter in the all-encompassing development of China-EU relations.

Second, there remains extensive room for cooperation between China and the EU in the fields of economy and trade, as well as collaborative efforts in climate governance related to clean energy, green manufacturing and sustainable transportation. Since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, China and the EU have jointly shouldered international responsibilities in geopolitical and international crisis management.

Third, amid the intensifying competition among major powers, China and the EU, as significant proponents of globalization, need to unite and support each other to collectively promote global peace and prosperity. The tactical easing of tensions between China and the US has removed some obstacles for the China-EU leaders summit. However, its vital for the EU to strengthen strategic autonomy.

Looking ahead at the international landscape, the enduring uncertainty and risks in the relationship between China and the US underscore the crucial role of China-EU relations in advancing global peace and prosperity. In the short term, China-EU cooperation is beneficial for fostering a positive collaborative environment; in the long term, it will contribute to the capacity building and strategic autonomy of the EU.

China-EU cooperation is an inevitable choice for China and Europe in promoting national economic development and safeguarding core national interests in the contemporary era. It is also a necessary means to drive global stability and prosperity. The EU should seize the opportunity presented by the China-EU leaders summit, discard the erroneous perception of de-risking, and continually deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the EU. Together, they can promote the stability and long-term development of bilateral relations.

The author is director of the Institute of International Affairs at Renmin University of China.

The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

If you have a specific expertise, or would like to share your thought about our stories, then send us your writings at opinion@chinadaily.com.cn or comment@chinadaily.com.cn.


Space has a more profound effect on the human body than we realized, and astronauts who fly regularly may be at risk of brain damage. Long-term space missions have a significant impact on the ventricles of the astronauts' brains. Full recovery occurs only after three years without space loads.

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This is stated in a study published in the journal Scientific Reports. The authors of the study scanned the brains of 30 astronauts before and after their space travel.

The study leader, Professor Rachael Seidler, and her team examined a group of astronauts before and after the flight, including 8 who were on two-week missions, 18 who were on six-month missions, and 4 astronauts who spent more than six months in space.

It was found that the ventricles, the cavities in the brain filled with cerebrospinal fluid, expand significantly during long space missions (six months or longer). It was also found that intervals between flights shorter than 3 years do not allow the ventricles to recover to their normal state.

Australian space health researcher Dr Vienna Tran says that the human body has evolved to live on Earth, which means we still have a long way to go to understand the effects of living in space.

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She noted that space travel causes the fluids in our body to shift upward, toward the head, neck, and chest, which in turn leads to changes in all body systems. She cited the human eye as an example. The accumulation of fluid puts pressure on the eyeball, which leads to changes in the optic nerve.

The fluid contained in the ventricles acts as a shock absorber (protecting the brain from the skull), but also distributes nutrients and removes waste from the brain.

The authors of the study admit that the consequences of such changes in the brain are not yet fully understood, but it is safe to say that it can lead to unwanted pressure on brain tissue. According to Cosmos Magazine, this condition is called hydrocephalus and can lead to brain damage or even death.

Tran adds that humanity currently knows too little about how prolonged exposure to space affects the human body, so it is simply not ready to send a person to Mars and back on a three-year round trip.

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"It will take many more years before we can do it safely," the scientist says.

Scientists also know that staying in space affects the musculoskeletal system, so astronauts are forced to exercise for two hours every day to slow down the degradation of bones and muscles. But this does not change the situation with fluid accumulation.

Perhaps artificial gravity, which will someday be created on spacecraft, will solve the problem, but there is no scientific data to confirm its effectiveness.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL also reported that something incomprehensible happened to mice that had been in space for two months.

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Head of the President's Office Andrii Yermak, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and Verkhovna Rada Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk arrived in the United States on an official visit. Here, they spoke at the Institute of Peace and thanked their American partners for their close and reliable support of Ukraine since the first day of the full-scale invasion.

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"We have thwarted the plans of the Russian blitzkrieg. We have resisted. Ukrainians are very grateful to everyone who helped us to remain a sovereign and independent state," Yermak addressed the participants of the meeting. His words were reported by the press service of the President's Office.

He added that Russia today is not limited to the military conflict in Ukraine alone. Its task is to destabilize the situation on different continents, and the civilized world must resist this.

"We should treat the disease, not its symptoms. Negotiations with terrorists always end in a fragile truce. The key to peace lies in depriving their puppeteers of their power," the official Kyiv spokesman said.

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Ukrainian government officials met with the chairmen of the House of Representatives. They discussed the importance of continued assistance to our country.

"Air superiority, strengthening of air defense capabilities, drones, electronic warfare, artillery and ammunition: this is what our soldiers need on the battlefield today," Defense Minister Umerov wrote on Facebook.

He also emphasized the need to increase sanctions against Moscow. Russian production of weapons and attack drones continues, which means that current economic restrictions are not enough.

"Russia today is a threat to the whole world. Ukraine and the civilized world can stop the Kremlin's terrorist regime today. To do so, we need the support of our allies," the meeting concluded.

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As reported by OBOZ.UA, Washington has identified three key areas of support for Ukraine, which is fighting Russia's invasion this winter. Given that Moscow has not abandoned its attempts to plunge the Ukrainian people into cold and darkness, these areas are the same as last year.
Credit Suisse AG reduced its position in shares of Robert Half Inc. (NYSE:RHI  Free Report) by 19.3% in the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 216,476 shares of the business services providers stock after selling 51,826 shares during the quarter. Credit Suisse AG owned approximately 0.20% of Robert Half worth $16,283,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Resurgent Financial Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Robert Half during the 4th quarter valued at $27,000. Salem Investment Counselors Inc. bought a new stake in Robert Half during the 2nd quarter valued at $28,000. Nelson Van Denburg & Campbell Wealth Management Group LLC bought a new stake in Robert Half during the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Robert Half by 964.7% during the 1st quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 362 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $29,000 after buying an additional 328 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Dupont Capital Management Corp bought a new stake in Robert Half during the 2nd quarter valued at $44,000. 91.63% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Robert Half Stock Performance

Shares of RHI stock opened at $82.37 on Wednesday. Robert Half Inc. has a one year low of $64.65 and a one year high of $89.78. The companys 50-day moving average is $76.96 and its 200 day moving average is $75.23. The company has a market capitalization of $8.72 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.68, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 17.15 and a beta of 1.26.

Robert Half Announces Dividend

Robert Half ( NYSE:RHI Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 24th. The business services provider reported $0.90 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.81 by $0.09. Robert Half had a net margin of 7.09% and a return on equity of 29.60%. The company had revenue of $1.56 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.54 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $1.53 EPS. Robert Halfs revenue for the quarter was down 14.7% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts predict that Robert Half Inc. will post 3.86 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 15th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 24th will be paid a dividend of $0.48 per share. This represents a $1.92 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.33%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, November 22nd. Robert Halfs dividend payout ratio is currently 43.54%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

RHI has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. UBS Group initiated coverage on shares of Robert Half in a report on Tuesday, November 7th. They set a sell rating and a $60.00 price target for the company. StockNews.com raised shares of Robert Half from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Sunday, October 15th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, four have given a hold rating and one has issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $68.63.

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About Robert Half

(Free Report)

Robert Half Inc provides talent solutions and business consulting services in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. The company operates through three segments: Contract Talent Solutions, Permanent Placement Talent Solutions, and Protiviti. The Contract Talent Solutions segment provides contract engagement professionals in the fields of finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal and administrative, and customer support.

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Ossiam decreased its stake in EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG  Free Report) by 83.1% in the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 1,083 shares of the energy exploration companys stock after selling 5,318 shares during the quarter. Ossiams holdings in EOG Resources were worth $124,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Pinnacle Holdings LLC acquired a new position in shares of EOG Resources in the 1st quarter valued at $25,000. Truvestments Capital LLC acquired a new position in shares of EOG Resources in the 2nd quarter valued at $25,000. Fortis Capital Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of EOG Resources in the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. Lumature Wealth Partners LLC acquired a new position in shares of EOG Resources in the 1st quarter valued at $28,000. Finally, Eagle Bay Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of EOG Resources in the 2nd quarter valued at $33,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.21% of the companys stock.

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EOG Resources Stock Down 0.8 %

Shares of EOG stock opened at $121.96 on Wednesday. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $125.99 and its 200 day simple moving average is $123.42. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14, a quick ratio of 2.10 and a current ratio of 2.43. EOG Resources, Inc. has a twelve month low of $98.52 and a twelve month high of $137.95. The company has a market capitalization of $71.12 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.06, a PEG ratio of 0.36 and a beta of 1.44.

EOG Resources Increases Dividend

EOG Resources ( NYSE:EOG Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 2nd. The energy exploration company reported $3.44 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.95 by $0.49. The business had revenue of $6.21 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.91 billion. EOG Resources had a return on equity of 26.80% and a net margin of 32.11%. As a group, research analysts predict that EOG Resources, Inc. will post 12.12 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, January 31st. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, January 17th will be paid a $0.91 dividend. This is an increase from EOG Resourcess previous quarterly dividend of $0.83. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, January 16th. This represents a $3.64 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.98%. EOG Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 24.52%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of brokerages have commented on EOG. Mizuho decreased their price objective on EOG Resources from $158.00 to $150.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, November 15th. Bank of America raised their price objective on EOG Resources from $143.00 to $147.00 in a research report on Wednesday, September 27th. Susquehanna decreased their price objective on EOG Resources from $165.00 to $164.00 and set a positive rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, October 18th. UBS Group raised their price objective on EOG Resources from $164.00 to $165.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 4th. Finally, StockNews.com began coverage on EOG Resources in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. They set a hold rating for the company. Six equities research 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 stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, EOG Resources presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $147.33.

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EOG Resources 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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General Motors (NYSE:GM  Get Free Report) (TSE:GMM.U) had its target price boosted by equities research analysts at Citigroup from $90.00 to $95.00 in a note issued to investors on Monday, Benzinga reports. The brokerage presently has a buy rating on the auto manufacturers stock. Citigroups price objective would suggest a potential upside of 190.70% from the stocks current price.

GM has been the topic of a number of other reports. TheStreet cut General Motors from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 3rd. UBS Group decreased their price target on General Motors from $44.00 to $43.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, October 10th. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price target on General Motors from $25.00 to $27.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Thursday, November 30th. Morgan Stanley decreased their price target on General Motors from $41.00 to $40.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, October 27th. Finally, Barclays raised General Motors from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and set a $37.00 price target on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, November 1st. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating, twelve have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $50.25.

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General Motors Stock Performance

GM opened at $32.68 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of $44.75 billion, a PE ratio of 4.60, a P/E/G ratio of 0.44 and a beta of 1.48. The company has a current ratio of 1.14, a quick ratio of 0.96 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.02. General Motors has a 1 year low of $26.30 and a 1 year high of $43.63. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $29.57 and its 200-day simple moving average is $33.53.

General Motors (NYSE:GM  Get Free Report) (TSE:GMM.U) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 24th. The auto manufacturer reported $2.28 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.87 by $0.41. The business had revenue of $44.13 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $42.48 billion. General Motors had a return on equity of 16.01% and a net margin of 5.83%. General Motorss quarterly revenue was up 5.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $2.25 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts forecast that General Motors will post 7.52 EPS for the current year.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On General Motors

Several large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. BlackRock Inc. increased its stake in shares of General Motors by 0.7% in the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 126,529,253 shares of the auto manufacturers stock valued at $4,641,093,000 after acquiring an additional 819,371 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp lifted its holdings in General Motors by 3.1% during the second quarter. State Street Corp now owns 58,732,016 shares of the auto manufacturers stock worth $2,264,707,000 after acquiring an additional 1,750,984 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC grew its stake in General Motors by 1.6% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 25,308,907 shares of the auto manufacturers stock valued at $972,995,000 after acquiring an additional 389,894 shares during the period. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership increased its holdings in shares of General Motors by 51.4% in the first quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 22,349,234 shares of the auto manufacturers stock worth $819,770,000 after acquiring an additional 7,585,746 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich raised its position in shares of General Motors by 94,113.4% during the second quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 16,754,917 shares of the auto manufacturers stock worth $646,070,000 after purchasing an additional 16,737,133 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 79.62% of the companys stock.

General Motors Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

General Motors Company designs, builds, and sells trucks, crossovers, cars, and automobile parts; and provide software-enabled services and subscriptions worldwide. The company operates through GM North America, GM International, Cruise, and GM Financial segments. It markets its vehicles primarily under the Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Baojun, and Wuling brand names.

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Natixis lowered its position in shares of Mueller Water Products, Inc. (NYSE:MWA  Free Report) by 49.9% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 7,197 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 7,180 shares during the quarter. Natixis holdings in Mueller Water Products were worth $117,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Bessemer Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Mueller Water Products by 409.9% during the first quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 3,156 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $44,000 after buying an additional 2,537 shares during the last quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC raised its position in shares of Mueller Water Products by 132.1% during the first quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 3,291 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $46,000 after buying an additional 1,873 shares during the last quarter. Global Retirement Partners LLC bought a new stake in shares of Mueller Water Products during the first quarter valued at approximately $53,000. Register Financial Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Mueller Water Products during the first quarter valued at approximately $70,000. Finally, Captrust Financial Advisors raised its position in shares of Mueller Water Products by 22.8% during the first quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 5,580 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $72,000 after buying an additional 1,036 shares during the last quarter.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Separately, StockNews.com cut shares of Mueller Water Products from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, November 30th. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Mueller Water Products presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $14.20.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Mueller Water Products news, Director Michael T. Tokarz sold 13,269 shares of Mueller Water Products stock in a transaction on Tuesday, September 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $13.08, for a total transaction of $173,558.52. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 392,502 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,133,926.16. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. 1.70% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Mueller Water Products Stock Down 1.6 %

NYSE MWA opened at $13.48 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.89, a current ratio of 3.46 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.63. The company has a fifty day moving average of $12.87 and a two-hundred day moving average of $14.03. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.11 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.51, a PEG ratio of 1.70 and a beta of 1.32. Mueller Water Products, Inc. has a 52 week low of $10.55 and a 52 week high of $16.62.

Mueller Water Products Increases Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 20th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, November 9th were paid a dividend of $0.064 per share. This represents a $0.26 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.90%. This is a positive change from Mueller Water Productss previous quarterly dividend of $0.06. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, November 8th. Mueller Water Productss payout ratio is presently 53.06%.

Mueller Water Products Profile

(Free Report)

Mueller Water Products, Inc manufactures and markets products and services for the transmission, distribution, and measurement of water used by municipalities, and the residential and non-residential construction industries in the United States, Israel, and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Water Flow Solutions and Water Management Solutions.

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On Wednesday, December 6, St. Nicholas Day, Ukraine returned home eight children who had been abducted by Russia. Four girls and four boys aged 8 to 18 will soon be reunited with their families.

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The good news was announced on Telegram by the head of the Presidential Office, Andrii Yermak, and the Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets. According to them, the State of Qatar and UNICEF made a significant contribution to the process of returning the children.

According to the Ombudsman, the work was carried out within the framework of the implementation of the approved action plan of the President of Ukraine Bring Kids Back UA. His team will continue to work to bring Ukrainian children home, no matter how difficult it is, because each of them is important.

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"For these children, a pre-Christmas miracle has truly happened today - they will meet and hug their relatives in their homeland," Lubinets emphasized.

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As a reminder, Iryna Vereshchuk, Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine and Minister for Reintegration of the Temporarily Occupied Territories said that there are currently about 20,000 Ukrainian children who have been illegally deported from Ukraine by Russia. However, there is reason to believe that the true number of children abducted by Russia could be hundreds of thousands.

As reported by OBOZ.UA:

- As of December 1, 387 young Ukrainian citizens were returned home from Russia.

- Ukraine has returned a boy from Russia - he is already at home with his family - and four other minors. A 17-year-old girl and three younger boys have not seen their families since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.

- Beth Van Skaak, the U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice, said that Russia continues to take Ukrainian children from the cities temporarily occupied by its troops to its territory. Moscow is involving far-right biker communities in this process.

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U.S. President Joe Biden has called the prospect of the United States withdrawing its support for Ukraine "an absolute mistake" and "insanity." According to the head of state, such a step is contrary to the interests of the United States, so Biden assured that his administration will continue to seek the allocation of funds, which is currently being blocked at the level of the US Congress.

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At the same time, the continuation of US assistance to Ukraine and Israel has become a bargaining chip for a group of Republicans, who demand changes in migration policy and strengthening of US border protection in exchange for approval of the White House's request. The details were revealed in The New York Times.

According to the newspaper, Biden's insistence on urgent approval of a $106 billion funding package, of which $61 billion should be used to help Ukraine and the rest to support Israel, Taiwan, and protect the US border with Mexico, has been opposed by some Republicans in both the US Congress and the US Senate.

During the Senate vote on this issue, Republicans threaten to block funding if Democrats do not agree to strengthen measures to counteract migrants at the border with Mexico.

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Thus, the issue of continued support for Ukraine was to be discussed at a secret briefing in the Senate on Tuesday, December 5. However, this briefing turned into a dispute over the border, which The New York Times described as "a partisan shouting match" that, according to the newspaper, not only jeopardized the allocation of funding for Ukraine, but also "seriously clouded the prospects for any bipartisan agreement in the near future."

The media wrote that Republican senators called the briefing a waste of time. Some Republicans even left early.

The dispute arose over whether to include stricter immigration policy in the aid package for Ukraine.

Some Democratic senators stated that the United States "is going to leave Ukraine to its own devices" and warned that Republicans who are currently blocking aid for the Ukrainian army will "regret the day they decide to play politics with the future of Ukraine's security" - and this will happen when "Putin enters a NATO country."

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At the same time, even some Republicans who had been firmly pro-Ukrainian spoke out against voting for aid to Ukraine in isolation from measures to restrict migration. For example, Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina is well aware that if Putin wins in Ukraine, a war between Russia and NATO is inevitable. However, he believes that insufficient protection of American borders from migrants is no less of a threat to U.S. national security. And he is ready to support assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan only if the US borders are strengthened.

US President Joe Biden also responded to the senators' position. He called the prospects of the US refusing to help Ukraine an "absolute mistake" and "insanity." According to Biden, this is contrary to the country's interests. So the American president promised that his administration would get the funds allocated.

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"We will do it!" Biden assured journalists during a press conference on December 5.

The White House requested Congress to approve a $106 billion funding package, of which more than $61 billion is earmarked for Ukraine, back in September. However, the issue of border security has become a key point of contention between Democrats and Republicans in Congress. Democrats are in favor of a comprehensive overhaul of the migration system, while Republicans are pushing for stricter requirements for migrants and border security. Neither party has yet agreed to make concessions.

And while Democrats have a majority in the Senate and there are some chances that the White House's request will be supported, in the Republican-dominated Congress, these chances are almost zero unless a compromise is found.

Earlier, a State Department spokesman assessed the chances of Congress approving additional aid to Ukraine. He noted that there is overwhelming support in Congress for further assistance to Ukraine. Therefore, there is hope that congressmen will agree on the need for funding for Kyiv.

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It was also reported that Biden's adviser Jake Sullivan urged Congress not to ignore the lessons of history. He emphasized that Russia should not be allowed to achieve success on the battlefield in Ukraine. That is why the U.S. Congress must take responsibility and approve the request for military assistance for Ukraine.
It is not an overstatement to say that when it comes to sponsoring a brilliant student back in the day in the university that it is usually a collective effort in the community, particularly in rural areas. Even if kinsfolks do not directly contribute money to such sponsorship, they ensure that loans from any influential member of the community are granted to either of the parents of the benefiting student as there is the widely held notion that it is an excellent opportunity to give back to the community. Not only that, the demonstrated mutual support shows that they value higher education and charity. In fact, the sponsorships also act as an assurance that the top Big men that the community pray to have in future would emerge through the act of collectively assisting one of their own. Overall, financially and educationally supporting university-attending individuals is a win-win transaction for the community and the beneficiary in this case.

In a similar vein, it is expedient to contextually reason that there has always been a growing interest for the governments to sponsor the youths in international higher education. In this case, the governments initiate or expand scholarship programmes that provide citizens with the opportunity to study outside their home country. To cite a contemporary example in illustrating the foregoing view, it is pragmatic in this context to say that the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) offers Foreign Post Graduate (Masters) Scholarship Programme opportunityto youths in the Niger Delta communities of the country as a way of demonstrating its unwavering commitment to fostering human resource development and empowerment of the youths in the Niger Delta region.

At this juncture, it is typical for anyone to question the rationale behind government sponsorship of citizens through scholarship programmes. The rationales for government-sponsored scholarship schemes cannot be farfetched as they turn on aspiration for national development, namely to advance the economy and improve a countrys capacity and potential for innovation. A central interest is to foster greater expertise in important fields, mostly (and unsurprisingly) in areas relating to science, technology, engineering and mathematics, where domestic training is either unavailable or thought to be of less than world-class quality.

Explained from the backdrop of the foregoing facts, it is not unexpected for an inquisitive reader of this piece to ask why do governments also sponsor their officials to Conferences since it is usually of a short durationcompared to four-walls of a university, and what do participants stand to gain considering the ginormousamount of monies that are usually spent on such Conferences by governments, and in turn bring knowledgeto bear on the nations economy.

To respond to the foregoing contextual inquisitions, it suffices to throw insight into what a Conference is all about. As gathered from lexicographic materials, A conference is an event in which a number of people meet to discuss and share ideas, experiences, or work. The term can be used for any type of meeting, but it is often used in relation to business meetings and annual meetings of organizations.

As typically known, Conference organizers usually plan a full agenda of events that include keynote speeches, panel discussions, breakout sessions, and social events. Attendees come from all over the world to attend these conferences, which can be a great opportunity to learn new things and network with other professionals.

In fact, there are different types of conferences, with their own purpose and focus. The most common types of conferences cut across Business conference, Academic conference, Educational conference, Scientific conference, Social/cultural conference and Peace conference. Others are Trade conference, Press or News conference and Authors conference.

A typical example of a Conference, and which can be classified to be Scientific in nature is the COP 28 that is presently going on in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and which started from November 30, 2023 and slated to end on December 12, 2023. Officially, COP 28 stands for the 28th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

For the sake of clarity, the UN Climate Change conference, that is popularly, and acronymically been referred to as COP takes place every year, and remained the worlds only multilateral decision-making forum on climate change with almost complete membership of every country in the world.

To put it simply, the COP is where the world comes together to agree on ways to address the climate crisis, such as limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius, helping vulnerable communities adapt to the effects of climate change, and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Prior to the commencement of the ongoing Conference in Dubai, it is reported that more than 70,000 delegates were expected to attend, including the member states (or Parties) of the UNFCCC. Business leaders, young people, climate scientists, Indigenous Peoples, journalists, and various other experts and stakeholders who are also among the participants.

In as much as Nigeria is actively participating in the ongoing COP28 Conference In Dubai, critics have flayed the government for sending a Jamboree-sized entourage to the annual event considering the expenses involved inflying such a large number of delegates to Dubai, lodging them in the hotels, and unarguably paying estacodes to them.

According to Anaedoonline.ng, an online news platform, Nigeria apparently sent the third-highest number of delegates, specifically with1, 411 delegates to the summit despite the harsh consequences of the economic crisis, which is primarily the result of the actions of the leadership of the ongoing political dispensation.

Though the presidency has refuted the viral news report that it sent 1,411 delegates to the Conference as it claimed 422 persons were funded for the conference giving the breakdown as nominations of 32 participants from the National Council on Climate Change, 34 from the Federal Ministry of Environment, 167 from all Ministries = 167, and 67 from the Presidency. Other participants 9 from the Office of the Vice President, 40 from the National Assembly and 73 from the Federal Parastatals/Agencies.

To not a few critics, even the 422 delegates is also large considering the cost expended on them for the meeting. Another area of concern, and which demands an answer from the government is, Did the selection process of the delegates give priority to government officials whose professional assignments are closely related to the subject matter of climate change?

In fact, BusinessDay reports that 590 of the 1,411 attendees were given free tickets by the Nigerian government to attend the conference; thus the estimated cost of these delegates round-trip airfare is N885 million.

The newspaper used flight rates from foreign airline carriers to calculate the price.

The publication reported that an average international airline operator check revealed that the cost of a two-way ticket from Nigeria to Dubai is N1.5 million.

According to a BusinessDay research, each travelers estacode is determined by their level. Ministers receive an estacode of $900 a day, or $11,7000 per minister for the duration of the conference, which is held over 13 days. Permanent secretaries receive $600 each day amounting to a total of $7,800.

Opining from the perspective of the headline of this piece, which ask the salient question, Could participants bring knowledge garnered from COPE28 to bear in tackling climate change?

The foregoing question is very exigent as the cost of the somewhat Jamboree need to be defrayed or rather be of benefit to the country through the knowledge that the participants would bring to bear in tackling the challenges that are inherent in climate change.

At this juncture, it is expedient to clarify that the essence of this piece is to remind the government of an ad hoc committee constituted by the Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, in early November, 2023 in preparation of the countrys participation in the COP28 Climate Change Conference in the United Arab Emirates. The committee was charged with the responsibility of chartinga roadmap to ensure Nigeria maximizes the benefits derived from its presence at the conference, and the onlyway to achieve the objectives the committee was set up to achieve, is for the delegates that attended the conference to bring the wealth of knowledge they garnered from the event to bear on Nigerias economy, particularly as they are expected to demonstrate such knowledge even as they in turn impart the knowledge to others, in tackling the climate change challenge that Nigeria is faced with.
President Bola Tinubu says cooperation is imperative for economic prosperity in West Africa, noting that a lack of synergy between Nigeria and Benin Republic has been an encumbrance to mutual development.

Speaking when he received President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic at the State House in Abuja, on Wednesday, President Tinubu said Nigeria and Benin Republic share a lot in common, describing both countries as conjoined twins held together at the hip.

"We are one. No other nation like ours should be worried. What is affecting us is a lack of synergy. We have not developed the necessary economic synergy that will develop our two nations. We must have common economic principles and priorities. The economic programme you are developing through inter-ministerial collaboration is welcomed by me.

"We will support all of our private sector interests to facilitate prosperity in both of our important countries. I appreciate the urgency of your approach, and we welcome this. Leadership is sometimes defined by urgent action. Thank you for your quality leadership. We are together. I am not a backward looking person. I look forward. This is how I avoid missing steps," the President said.

President Talon, who was at the State House to seek the support of President Tinubu on improving trade relations, ahead of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Summit, described the relationship between his country and Nigeria as crucial.

He said Benin Republic is seeking stronger trade ties with Nigeria, emphasizing the free movement of people and goods between both countries.

"Benin has started implementing a national development plan which includes enhanced integration between Nigeria and Benin Republic. Our development plan includes taking into account what investments are required in Benin to enhance our integration with Nigeria in trade terms. It is true that many agreements have been signed to push our integration forward, but they have not been implemented.

"At the level of ECOWAS, we embrace free movement and integration, and at the African level, AfCFTA envisages this; so we need to move urgently to make this a reality.

"Our investment programme must be revised to factor in all factors of the Nigerian economy. We seek to set up an inter-ministerial technical committee that will jointly prepare a draft document for our legislatures. I am ready to sign an executive order to appoint members of the council to advance mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors.

"There have been difficulties bilaterally on the issue of smuggling. We will work hard to coordinate and ensure that your interests are protected as we integrate our economies. I want us to make history together," President Talon said.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

December 6, 2023


The United States must continue supporting Ukraine to ensure Russia's defeat in the war. Withdrawal of such support would mean allowing Russian dictator Vladimir Putin to act with impunity, thereby opening a Pandora's box of aggression globally.

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U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken stated this at an event organized by the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, a Washington-based nonprofit organization.

"We must ensure that Ukraine continues to succeed. We must ensure that Russia continues to fail in its aggression against Ukraine. If we don't, we know that if Putin is allowed to act with impunity, it will open a Pandora's box of aggression around the world. Other potential aggressors will watch, they will learn, and they will take lessons from this. And that is why it is of great importance. And, as Jim Mattis always liked to say, as Lloyd Austin likes to say, in this business, an ounce of prevention is much better than 10 pounds of cure," said Anthony Blinken.

The U.S. Secretary of State added that the United States has a real incentive to do it right.

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"Ukraine, against all odds, succeeded and more than survived. It was a strategic defeat for Russia. It is weaker militarily, it is weaker economically, it is weaker diplomatically. Ukraine has united, Europe has gotten rid of its dependence on Russian energy resources, and the NATO Alliance is stronger and is getting stronger. We must be able to preserve this at a critical time," Blinken emphasized.
Cabinet approves tax-refund scheme for economic boost

BANGKOK: The government has announced a new tax refund scheme, the Easy E-Receipt program, to stimulate domestic spending and encourage the use of electronic invoices.

economics

By National News Bureau of Thailand

Wednesday 6 December 2023 12:06 PM

Image: NBT

According to the Ministry of Finance, individuals can claim a tax deduction of up to B50,000 for purchases made from businesses using the e-tax system from Jan 1 to Feb 15 next year, reports state news agency NNT.

However, the rebate excludes expenditures on alcoholic beverages, tobacco, vehicles and certain utilities and services.

The program, part of the governments economic stimulus measures, aims to boost the economy and persuade businesses to adopt the e-tax system. Business information on issuing electronic invoices and receipts is available on the Revenue Departments website.

During a Cabinet meeting in Nong Bua Lamphu province this week, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin addressed various issues, including tourism development, land problems, and the fight against illegal drugs.

The Premier also discussed the potential of Nong Bua Lamphu and four other provinces as tourism destinations while endorsing the promotion of high-quality OTOP products in each city.
Government nod for CEO governors

BANGKOK: The Cabinet has agreed in principle to grant all provincial governors authority broadly equivalent to that of a company CEO, as part of the governments decentralisation policy.

politics

By Bangkok Post

Wednesday 6 December 2023 08:47 AM

Provincial governors attend a meeting in Bangkok in 2017. Photo: Bangkok Post

The Move Forward Party (MFP), the main opposition party, and some critics, however, have expressed doubts as to whether the claimed decentralisation matches more widely accepted international definitions, reports the Bangkok Post.

According to the Cabinet-approved proposal, provincial governors will be authorised under Section 53 of the 2022 royal decree on integrated area-based administration to conduct performance appraisals of executive senior civil servants in their provinces, raise their salaries, offer special rewards and also take disciplinary action against them when necessary.

Submitted by the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) at the mobile Cabinet meeting in Nong Bua Lam Phu on Monday (Dec 4), the proposal targets a start date during the 2025 fiscal year, from Oct 1, 2024, said a source.

Key performance indicators (KPIs) would be introduced to measure provincial achievements and aid government decisions on budget allocation and development plans, said the source.

Provinces were also instructed on Monday to map out a 20-year provincial development outlook, as well as provide details of current annual development plans, said the source.

The Ministry of Interior, meanwhile, was assigned by the Cabinet to compile the data received in order for the Budget Bureau to incorporate the provinces development plans into its distribution of the state budget.

All provincial governors will be formally briefed on the exact scope of their new authority and how to execute their new duties in accordance with the decree, said the source.

In a debate on Sept 12, MFP list-MP Parit Wacharasindhu labelled the CEO idea, which formed part of the government policy statement delivered by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, as nothing more than a rehash of a Thai Rak Thai Party policy from two decades ago.

As these new-style governors would not be elected by people in their provinces, the policy should not be seen as pro-decentralisation, said Mr Parit.

The essence of decentralisation is that it empowers people to determine their future by electing their own leaders to champion their rights and lead the development of their communities, he said.

Mr Parit had also accused the Srettha administration of reneging on an earlier pledge to pilot elections for provincial governors in a select number of areas.

The ruling party owes its voters an explanation, he said.

For Stithorn Thananithichot, director of the Office of Innovation for Democracy at King Prajadhipoks Institute, the policy would likely not succeed if administrative power has already been decentralised to some extent to the provincial and tambon administrative organisations.

Unlike 20 years ago when the Thai Rak Thai Party introduced this very same policy, provincial governors nowadays hold far less power, he said.

The only possible way to succeed would be for the government to instead turn these governors into the coordinators of the existing local administrative bodies, he said.

What is missing and crucial for making power decentralisation successful is work integration among the existing local administrative bodies and provincial offices of other ministries in each province, he said.

Integrated administration doesnt really exist at the provincial level, he said.

Officials in Phuket were first made aware of the issue back on Sept 27 when Vice Governor Amnuay Pinsuwan chaired a meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall to impart the outcome of a meeting chaired by Ministry of Interior Permanent Secretary Suthiphong Chulcharoen in Bangkok held 24 hours previous.

This meeting was held during the final tensure of previous Phuket Governor Narog Woonciew and prior to the current Governor Sophon Suwannarat taking up his position, which he did officially on Oct 4.
Tokyo police arrest taxi driver after running over pigeon

TOKYO: A Tokyo taxi driver was arrested for deliberately driving into a flock of pigeons and killing one, police said yesterday (Dec 5), reportedly because he was angry that the birds were on the road.

policecrimetransportanimalsviolence

By AFP

Wednesday 6 December 2023 09:24 AM

Photo: AFP

Atsushi Ozawa, 50, used his car to kill a common pigeon, which is not a game animal, in the Japanese capital last month, and was arrested on Sunday for violating wildlife protection laws, a Tokyo police spokesman told AFP.

Ozawa sped off from a traffic light when it turned green, ploughing his taxi into the bevy of birds at a speed of 60 kilometres (37 miles) per hour, local media said.

The sound of the engine reportedly prompted a surprised passer-by to report the incident.

Tokyo police had a veterinarian perform a post-mortem on the hapless pigeon and determined its cause of death as traumatic shock, according to local media.

Roads belong to humans, so pigeons should have dodged out of the way, Ozawa was quoted by local media as telling investigators.

Police called his behaviour highly malicious for a professional driver, before deciding to go ahead with the arrest, broadcaster Fuji TV said.

Wow, can you get arrested for running over a pigeon?, one user wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

He couldve just honked his car horn or something. But intentionally killing it? Thats crossing the line, another posted.
Russians launch drones at Ukraine almost every night. At the same time, the occupiers have begun to use new routes for their targets so that these drones can fly as far as possible. The enemy knows where powerful Ukrainian air defense systems are located and how to overcome them.

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This was stated by Yurii Ihnat, spokesperson for the Ukrainian Air Force Command, on the air of Hovoryt Velykyi Lviv TV program. He also spoke about the importance of mobile fire groups.

As Ihnat explained, each enemy drone flies along a given route to a point target, a specific object. In addition to hitting the target, the enemy's goal is to deplete our air defense and find weaknesses in our air defense.

"Enemy drones fly along the borders of regions, along riverbeds, using the terrain, knowing more or less where we have powerful air defense systems and how to overcome them... Thus, a certain number of drones can reach Khmelnytskyi and even Lviv regions," Ihnat said.

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He also added that mobile firing groups are very important today as the enemy launches drones almost every night, and there is a lack of stationary air defense in Ukraine.

"We also expect that the German, French, American, and other industries will increase their capacities many times over in order to provide us with a sufficient number of both air defense systems and air defense systems. Because there are fewer and fewer Soviet weapons, although last year they were the basis for protecting our infrastructure. There are relatively more Western weapons, but they are still not enough," the spokesman said.

As reported by OBOZ.UA:

On the morning of December 5, the occupiers attacked an infrastructure facility in the Lviv region with kamikaze drones. As a result of the attack, a fire broke out. It was quickly extinguished.

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On the same day, Ukrainian soldiers shot down another Russian aircraft. A Russian Su-24M bomber was shot down near Snake Island in the Black Sea. Under the cover of a Russian Su-30SM fighter jet, it tried to launch a missile and attack the south of the Odesa region.
Sabine Federal Credit Union (Sabine FCU) is thrilled to announce the opening of its newest branch in Beaumont, Texas, set to open its doors in early 2024. This expansion marks a significant milestone for Sabine FCU as we proudly exist to nurture financial growth and build prosperity by cultivating relationships and providing exceptional products and services for any stage of life. The new branch, located at the corner of Gladys and Major (8255 Gladys), reflects Sabine FCU's dedication to meeting the growing financial needs in the region. This expansion is a testament to Sabine FCU's success and stability, reinforcing its position as a trusted financial institution. Key Features of the New Sabine FCU Beaumont Branch: 1. Welcoming Atmosphere: The new branch will feature a contemporary design to create a welcoming and comfortable environment for members. State-of-the-art technology, including ITMs, will enhance the banking experience, providing convenient and efficient services. 2. Comprehensive Financial Services: Sabine FCU in Beaumont will offer a full range of financial services, including savings and checking accounts, loans, mortgages, and investment options. Members can expect personalized assistance from knowledgeable staff to help them achieve their financial goals. 3. Community Engagement: Sabine FCU is deeply committed to the local communities and will continue to participate in local events, sponsorships, and initiatives to support the growth and well-being of the area. Sabine Federal Credit Union is excited about the prospects this expansion brings and looks forward to continuing its mission of empowering members to achieve their financial goals. The new branch underscores Sabine FCU's commitment to providing accessible, convenient, and personalized financial services to the Beaumont community. For more information about Sabine Federal Credit Union and its services, please visit http://www.sabinefcu.org. About Sabine Federal Credit Union: Sabine Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, not-forprofit financial institution committed to providing comprehensive financial services to its members. With a history rooted in community service, Sabine FCU strives to empower individuals to achieve financial success.
Vineen Giordano and Cheryl Sharpton-Stalnaker, chairs of the Service League of Orange Toy Coffee, are in front of the home of Beth and Kenneth Wheeler in the Old Orange Historic District. The Wheeler home on Pine Avenue. The Toy Coffee on Thursday collects new toys and money for the local Salvation Army.

Two Victorian era buildings, a home and a tiny school, will be open for tours Thursday, December 7,during the 57th Annual Toy Coffee sponsored by the Service League of Orange. Cheryl Sharpton-Stalnaker is chair of the event with Vineen Giordano as co-chair.

Beth and Kenneth Wheeler restored both buildings in the Old Orange Historic District and have the decorated for Christmas for the tours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is new, unwrapped toy or money donation for the Salvation Army of Orange County to help families in need during the holidays.

The Service League of Orange provides a number of charitable, health, and education services to Orange County. The Toy Coffee with its open house has become a local tradition.

The Wheeler's main residence is at 1008 Pine Avenue and was recently approved to receive at Texas Historical Marker. The front porch was featured in 2012 on the cover of This Old House magazine.

The house was built in 1889 for Wolf Bluestein and sold in 1907 to Ben and Martha Stephens. The Stephens family lived there for 75 years. Judge Jerry Pennington did the research on the house and wrote the marker application.

The Wheelers took years restoring and remodeling the house, with work disrupted by storms. Two giant nutcrackers are standing at the front entrance and the house is full of an eclectic display of Christmas decorations.

The yellow house is a block where century-old live oak trees form a tunnel for the street.

The other place is known as "Miss Laura's School" and was awarded a Texas Historical Marker in 1986 after one restoration. It later became vacant for 20 years and fell into decay. The Wheelers, who walk in the neighborhood, admired the tiny building and tracked down the owner to buy it.

The building started as a stable to the Chandler family, which lived on Pine Avenue at Seventh Street in the 19th Century. In 1896, they added an upstairs to the stable so their daughter, Laura, could have a small classroom to teach. Eventually, the stable was converted to a dwelling with the downstairs having a living area and kitchen. The upstairs classroom became a balcony.

Edna Travis, who was married to dentist Dr. Robert Travis, bought the tiny building in the 1980s. The couple lived in a house on the same block and his dentist office was by the tiny house. They restored it. After their deaths, the house was sold was long vacant.

Beth Wheeler said they have furnished the house with antiques and are holiday decorating with a nod to the school house. She said during their recent remodeling, they removed old, thin sheetrock that had been wallpapered over during the 1980s renovation.

Apparently, the original school house had an outside stairways to get there. The upstairs front door to a small balcony was probably added after the classroom. They also found an area of shiplap that had been painted black to serve as a chalkboard.

She said they saved those original black boards and have framed them in the room like an old-fashioned school room.

Tours at the Pine Avenue home will exit into the patio area, where refreshments will be served. Several schools in the county have toy drives with students delivering them to the Toy Coffee. This year, the Service League will provide the students with pizza set up outside the little school house.
Don't spend your big school property tax cut for Christmas, yet. The tax savings, along with a raise in teacher pensions, are on hold because of lawsuits challenging the elections with accusations about voting machines irregularities.

State Senator Robert Nichols told a gathering in Orange Tuesday morning the governor cannot certify the election until the lawsuits are resolved. That could take months, which means counties may have to mail out new tax statements with the full appraisal values instead of the $100,000 homestead exemption on school taxes for homeowners.

The added exemption was set to save individual homeowners hundreds, and even thousands, of dollars in school taxes during the next two years. Many senior citizens and lower income homeowners saw their school tax bills cut down to zero with the change. Tax payments are due on January 31.

The amendments also included a cost-of-living adjustment for retired teachers that would be their first pension raise in 20 years. The added money has been set to go into January payments. The Texas Legislature approved the increase, but needed voter approval to move the money to cover the raise.

Also, having to recalculate tax bills and mail new statements will cost counties personnel time and postage costs.

According to Texas law, a lawsuit challenge to an election cannot be heard in court earlier than 45 days after an election, or later than 180 days after the election. The election was on November 7.

The legislature is currently in a special session that is set to end on Wednesday. Members are working to see if they can quickly get a bill approved and to the governor that would change the time wait for hearings on elections.

Currently, the proposed requirement is for courts to hear an election challenge within 50 days of the election. That would put the hearings at the end of December.

The Texas Tribune, a non-profit online publication specializing in coverage of state government, reports at least six lawsuits have been filed in counties of Texas. One was filed in state district court in Travis County, which includes Austin.

The Tribune said the lawsuits have similar working and two were filed by Jarrett Woodward, an activist with MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell in claiming widespread conspiracy theories about voting that have been disproved in courts across the country.

The Texas Secretary of State's office certified all voting machines and procedures across the state for the November election. The position is filled by the appointment of the governor and confirmed by the state senate. Jane Nelson holds the position now.
The USS West Virginia (BB-48) was moored on "Battleship Row" when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. The West Virginia was struck by up to nine enemy torpedoes, tearing open her midships and forward hull and wrecking her rudder.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared December 7th as "a date which will live in infamy" after Japanese airplanes bombed an American naval base Pearl Harbor killing U.S. personnel.

As a result, on Aug. 23, 1994, United States Congress, designated Dec. 7 of each year as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. It is a tradition to fly the Flag of the United States at half-staff until sunset in honor of dead patriots.

This week marks 82 years since the history changing day occurred .

The day began like many before it with a few exceptions. At approximately 6 a.m., 183 Japanese planes took off from six aircraft carriers 230 miles north of Oahu. This was just the first wave that would hit Pearl Harbor. At 7:02 a.m., two Army operators at a radar station on Oahu's northern shore detected the fleet of planes approaching. It was disregarded because several American B-17 planes were expected to come in from the U.S. west coast.

A short time later, at 7:15 a.m. 167 more Japanese planes took off and headed for Pearl Harbor. This was the second wave. The naval base was not put on high alert because the senior commanders felt there was no reason to believe an attack was imminent.

Aircraft were parked wing tip to wing tip. Anti-aircraft guns remained unmanned and ammunition locked up. Also, there were not any torpedo nets protecting the fleet anchorage. Given that it was a Sunday, many officers and crewman were ashore.

At 7:53 a.m., the first wave of Japanese planes reached Pearl Harbor and the battle began.

"It took us a while to wake up to what was really going on," said Joseph Rougeau who recalled the historic event before his death in May 2012. He was a Navy Seaman 1st Class and aboard the USS Medusa which was a fleet repair ship and docked at Pearl Harbor. Rougeau was eating breakfast when the attack started.

The first wave targeted airfields and battleships. The second targets were ships and shipyard facilities. Japan modified their shells to use them as bombs and wooden fins were added to torpedoes to keep them from sinking in the shallow harbor mud.

The air raid lasted until 9:45 a.m.

McKinnley Bland, of Orange, joined the United States Navy in 1939 at the age of 21 and served for 21 years. Bland passed away in 2017, but not before sharing his story of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Bland started out as a seaman and retired as Chief Petty Officer. He was assigned to the USS Salt Lake City as a steward.

He was up on deck cooking and serving food to the officers. He could see what was going on outside the ship when the Japanese bombers started bombing Pearl Harbor. He witnessed the attack on the USS Arizona.

The Arizona sustained the most damage in the raid. The ship took four direct hits from Japanese bombers. The last bomb ignited a forward magazine causing a devastating explosion. The ship sank claiming 1,177 lives. It remains in the harbor to this day and serves as memorial to those who lost their lives.

"Some of the men were already lying on the deck already killed," he said. "I'm just a country boy. I ain't never seen nobody killed."

Once the bombing commenced, the Salt Lake City sailed out to sea and stayed there for 110 days. After the 110 days, the Salt Like City was allowed to come back in to Pearl Harbor to restock their supplies, according to archives.

It was a very surreal moment for Rougeau. The normal berth place was along side Fort Island. On Friday, the USS Medusa had to move to allow the USS Utah to have their preferred spot. Had the Utah not been docked there, the Medusa would have probably taken the hit. The Utah was hit by a torpedo at approximately 8:01 a.m. and capsized.

"You could see the smoke and oil on the water on fire." Rougeau said in a previous interview.

Sailors were trying to swim on top of the water even though they had been taught to swim under the water, come up for short breaths and go back under.

"Some were just out of boot camp or panicked, they were just swimming on top sucking in smoke and fire into their lungs," Rougeau said.

Rougeau went on to explain they couldn't send life boats down to the sailors because the boats were made of wood.

The normal berth place was along side Fort Island. Just days before, the USS Medusa had to move to allow the USS Utah to have their preferred spot. Had the Utah not been docked there, the Medusa would have probably taken the hit. The Utah was hit by a torpedo at approximately 8:01 a.m. and capsized.

Cedric Stout, of Bridge City, was assigned to the Utah at the time of the attack. Stout was killing time looking out the porthole after breakfast.

"I saw all the commotion going on and thought, somebody's having some fun. But then a bullet went phew, right over the top of my head and I knew it wasn't no fun!" he said in a previous interview. "Almost immediately, torpedoes struck the port side of the ship and the superior officers were telling everyone to abandon ship, so I made it topside as quickly as possible."

At the hatch, Stout saw his shipmates being cut down as soon as they got up there, so Stout said he decided to hold back.

"When it became apparent that the Utah was going to roll over, we decided our chances were better dodging bullets than staying aboard to drown," Stout said." We ran to the ropes that held the Utah at dock, slid down to the mooring, made our way to the island and scrambled for cover."

A sailor who had run in the other direction became trapped in the ship's bough when it overturned. He had a metal pipe he would hit against the ship to let people know he was there. He did that for seven days before being found when someone heard the banging. A hole was cut out of the hull to set him free, dehydrated, but alive, according to Stout.

Fifty four sailors remain entombed in the USS Utah, according to archives.

Eight battle ships are damaged and two of them sunk. Three light cruisers, three destroyers and three smaller vessels are lost along with 188 aircraft. The USS Arizona and the USS Utah were left where they sank and stand as memorials so that all will remember the fate of the crew that were claimed by the sea. The Arizona continues to leak oil from it's hull and it is theorized that when the last living survivor from the Arizona dies, the oil will stop leaking.

The USS Oklahoma was damaged beyond repair. The ship took five torpedoes and capsized. Four hundred and twenty nine sailors were lost or are missing. The ship was pulled from the sea but never repaired.

The Oklahoma was striped of her weapons and sold for scrap. In 1947, the Oklahoma sank in mid-tow 540 miles out from Pearl Harbor, according to archives.

The USS Arizona memorial in Pearl Harbor is a marble memorial over the sunken battleship USS Arizona, which was dedicated in 1962. The memorial remembers all military personnel who were killed in the Pearl Harbor attack. Another memorial is of the USS Utah. The battleship was attacked and sunk. A memorial to honor the crew of the USS Utah was dedicated on the northwest shore of Ford Island, near the ship's wreck, in 1972. The ship was added to the National Register of Historic Places and declared a National Historic Landmark in 1989.

The United States lost 2,390 lives that day: 1,999 from the Navy, 109 from the Marine Corps, 233 from the Army and Army Air Force and 49 civilians.

During the time Bland and the rest of the crew on the Salt Lake City spent out at sea, the ship joined forces with a fleet of ships that escorted the Doolittle Raid mission. On April 18, 1942, 16 B-25 bombers were launched from the USS Hornet and the Doolittle Raid was the first attack on Japan during World War II.

"We escorted [the Hornet] into Japanese water," Bland said. "It was kind of amusing to see all of these planes on deck, but after a while, they started taking off."

Bland explained that the planes were only a few inches from the water when the plane left the deck of the Hornet, but the pilots managed to keeps those planes in the air.

Bland received the Purple Heart due to a battle wound sustained during a skirmish with a Japanese battle cruiser near Guadalcanal.

Upon his return home, Bland worked for the postal service for more than 20 years.

Rougeau was eventually transferred to a different ship that transported the Marine Corps to the invasion of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. Rougeau did not re-enlist when his tour was up, but he couldn't leave due to the war.

"When the war was over, it didn't take me long to get home," Rougeau said. He then spent 36 years working for Parish Electric. Even though he was technically retired, he still worked part time with the company.

Young Cedric Stout

Cutlines:

The USS West Virginia (BB-48) was moored on "Battleship Row" when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. The West Virginia was struck by up to nine enemy torpedoes, tearing open her midships and forward hull and wrecking her rudder.

The USS West Virginia (BB-48) was moored on "Battleship Row" when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. The West Virginia was struck by up to nine enemy torpedoes, tearing open her midships and forward hull and wrecking her rudder.
More than 100 relatives of the occupiers complained to dictator Vladimir Putin about "signs of deliberate extermination" of the mobilized in the area of Avdiivka, Donetsk region of Ukraine. They say that the leadership is in a hurry to capture the city before the press conference of the Russian President (the so-called direct line, scheduled for December 14) and the New Year 2024.

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A letter to the President of Russia was sent by the families of the soldiers of the 95411 military unit (Western Military District). This was reported by Istories-media.

The mobilized live in trenches about 700 meters from Avdiivka under constant shelling. After the beginning of the active phase of the Russian offensive in November, even occupants with injuries (mild and moderate) began to be sent to assault.

The wife of one of the occupiers told reporters that the "DPR" command "does not spare the DPR soldiers at all: they collect the remnants and then go on to attack again."

"They are in a hurry while [Ukrainians] are at odds, they are pushing towards [Putin's] direct line and the New Year. They need some kind of result. Everyone around us says that we will take Avdiivka, and then we will negotiate," the woman told Istories-media.

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The Russians cry that most of the invaders, the stormtroopers, were not on vacation at all. The assault brigades near Avdiivka are mostly made up of soldiers over 40 years old.

"We are telling Putin to count the personnel: how many are actually available, not according to military cards and what is in the reports. My husband says they are walking on corpses there, everything is just littered with them," said the wife of a Russian soldier who invaded Ukraine.

As OBOZ.UA wrote:

- All children have been evacuated from the city of Avdiivka, which is being wiped off the map and is being captured by Russian troops. There was a 12-year-old boy whose parents were hiding the child from evacuation until recently. This lasted for four months, but on December 5, it became known that the family had left the city.

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- Earlier, the UK Ministry of Defense shared a video of Ukrainian Avdiivka. The ministry noted that the city is now almost empty.

Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Not the time to keep silent Deafening silence

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Silence is definitely not the better part of valour at this point of time. Where is the Chief Minister ? Where is the Security Advisor to the Government of Manipur ? Where is the Council of Ministers ? The people who matter may have gone mum but this has not stopped the common folks from raising questions on the 13 people killed under questionable circumstances. As soon as news of the bludgeoned and bullet riddled bodies of the 13 young men went viral on the social media, the office of the media, at least the office of The Sangai Express, has been flooded with calls inquiring about the incident and developments, if any. Twenty four hours after reports of the bludgeoned bodies of the 13 young men went viral, inquiries about further developments continue to pour into the office of this newspaper. And this is not something unexpected. While killing and bloodshed is not something new to Manipur, especially after May 3, the news that 13 young men were killed in one single incident is something big, very big, and is way out of the ordinary and it is this extraordinary that the Government should take note of and respond accordingly. With nothing official coming out so far, certain questions need to be answered. Were the 13 men killed in a shoot out with another armed group or were they captured, tortured and later done to death ? If they were killed in a shoot out then what explains the other injuries found on the slain men ? And if they were captured, were they taken captive after a gun fight or were the victims unarmed ? If they were unarmed how did information of their presence there reach the ears of the people who killed them ? Or if they were armed, then were they captured after a shoot-out and who captured them ? If at all it was an encounter then why arent there any report or indication of injuries or casualty on the other side ? These are some of the pressing questions doing the round and the silence of the Government or the silence of the top people in the Government has not helped matters at all and has instead created room big enough for conspiracy theories to do the round and in any such theory, truth is the first casualty and this cannot be healthy for the Government by any stretch of the imagination.

If the encounter theory is to be taken into account then which group is known to be active in the said area ? From where have the guns used to kill the 13 men come ? The area where the incident took place is dominated by the Kukis and the Government should have been working on the question of whether armed outfits under the SoO pact were involved in the killing of the 13 young boys or not. Much have been written about and much have been talked about the guns looted from the police armouries located across the valley districts and a gun house at Churachandpur, and while the guns in the valley seem to have been accounted for, no one in the Government seems to have questioned where the guns that are fired towards the valley and at the foothills have come from. So many unanswered questions at the moment and the more and longer certain crucial questions are left hanging in the air, the Governments call for peace and normalcy will fall flat on its face. For starters, the Chief Minister and the Security Advisor should break their silence and spell out what actually happened. How did the mortal remains of the slain men bear body injuries ? Were they captured, tortured and later killed, as suspected by many ? More importantly who overpowered and captured them ? If not and if they were killed in an encounter as many believed in the initial stage, from where did the other side get their guns ? The Government should get down to the business of answering these questions, however uncomfortable they may be for leaving answered questions can only promote conspiracy theories and it would not do the Government any good.
Call for SA : Mischievously dangerous Humanity dead in all

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The first match stick that was struck at Torbung and the houses that were razed and levelled to the ground at Churachand-pur on May 3 also took away something intrinsic to all human beings-the humanity inside the person of all Kukis and the Meiteis. This in a nutshell should explain why the clash should carry on with no signs of abating for over 6 months. This means over 180 days and this is a long period for any community to be engaged in a sort of a war. So immune have the people become on either side of the clash divide that it has become some sort of an occasion to celebrate when news of anyone on either side of the clash divide is reported to have been felled, either by a bullet or by any weapon that one can lay hands on. Go to the social media sites and one will surely be greeted by different pages each dedicated to the cause they believe in and one will be bombarded by the series of hate uploads. The more enterprising ones have also coined some superbly comical sounding terms to refer to each other and these terms have invariably entered the lexicon of people on either side of the clash divide. The hate and smear campaign has caught on and Twitter now called X, is the place to be to highlight ones stand and run down the agenda of the other. Judging by what is happening at the ground, there is nothing to indicate that things will take a turn for the better. It is also clear from Day 1 of the conflict that media based in other parts of the country are out there like hawks to milk the situation and spread the narrative of their liking and in the process make things worse. The Manipur clash provided the perfect landing ground for some of these pen pushers to pack their bags, come here and write their own manufactured stories and tell their own version of the story or stories to the outside world. Things appear to have changed a bit with the real story now beginning to hit the consciousness of the people, but the country and the world to an extent continue to suffer from the hangover of consuming too much of the adulterated stories in the earlier days. This is the reality in Manipur right now and it still defies logic to see why the pen pushers have still not decided to go back to May 3 and study who struck the first match stick at Torbung that set Manipur on flames.

The fact however is, it cannot go on like this forever. Manipur knows this, the people know this, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) knows this and so do too the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), the Kuki MLAs who have raised the Separate Administration call know this. Dialogue is the only way forward and Imphal should take the lead. Former Chief Minister of Mizoram, Zoramthanga talked about reaching out to Nagaland, but never did he once refer to the need to approach Imphal to talk things over, underlining the point that he was just fishing for trouble and really did not have any intention of taking things to a logical conclusion. Lay off is a two word commandment that Imphal should offer the former Chief Minister of Mizoram, but yet at the same time avenues should be explored to see how things can be taken to the stage of a talk. But first of all, be very sure that any sell out of the interests of Manipur and her people will not be acceptable. If at all Delhi agrees to mediate then Imphal should play its card well. First thing, it should be made very clear that either the Suspension of Operation pact should be withdrawn or if this is not feasible then it should be reviewed. That the Separate Administration call is nothing but mischievous, half baked and dangerous to Manipur is clear and it is this very knowledge which has pushed forward this demand via the ten Kuki-Zo MLAs. Initiate a dialogue but that dialogue should not entertain any proposal or idea that could prove detrimental to Manipur. Cannot live with them anymore is a lie which is exposed by the very act of agression started after the rally at Churachandpur.
Today

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Russian terrorist troops have three lines of defense on the frontline in Ukraine. At the moment, the Ukrainian military is between the second and third lines of Russian defense.

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This was stated by Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov in an interview with Fox News. He also noted that Ukraine has already developed a plan for the liberation of territories for 2024.

According to him, the Armed Forces of Ukraine have managed to break through the second line of defense and are now facing the third.

"We have de-occupied 50% of our territory, we are defeating Russia on our land, we have returned the territory, liberated it. Now we have a plan for 2024," the minister said.

The head of the Ministry of Defense emphasized that the achievement of the 1991 borders remains an important strategic victory for Ukraine. Answering a journalist's question about the possibility of resolving the conflict if the war lasts for years, he said that the civilized world should feel ashamed if this happens.

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"It will continue and destroy democracy. They (Russians - Ed.) believe that Ukraine and Ukrainians should not exist," Umerov said.

The minister also noted Ukraine's plans to join NATO. According to him, all calculations for the next year, procurement and planning of operations are carried out according to NATO standards.

Umerov also commented on the scandals related to corruption and procurement in the Defense Ministry. He said that tenders, competitions and audits are currently underway. The defense minister also said he was ready to invite external auditors for cross-checking.

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As reported by OBOZ.UA, in the Kherson sector, the Defense Forces continue to hold their positions on the left bank of the Dnipro River. The military continue to conduct counter-battery combat and inflict fire on the enemy's rear.

As a reminder, over the past day, the Armed Forces eliminated almost 1.3 thousand occupants, destroyed an enemy aircraft and 37 enemy artillery systems. In total, the defenders thinned out Putin's army in Ukraine by 202 units of equipment and weapons.
Chief minister Mamata Banerjee today called upon Mumbai filmmakers and actors to use the locations in the state, which is equipped with every necessary infrastructure needed. She highlighted the pool of talent in Bengal, which can be the envy of any filmmaker.

Bhaijan, the star attraction of Kiff 29, assured to shoot in Bengal and return next year for the film festival. Delivering her address on the inauguration of the 29th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF), Miss Banerjee called upon the film fraternity in Mumbai to come to Bengal and shoot using the states infrastructure, locations and talent pool, which is rich.

The chief minister said, Kolkata International Film Festival is the biggest film festival in the country. Make films in Bengal. Use the state infrastructure to the hilt. There is no dearth of locations here.

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Go to Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Mirik in North Bengal and even Asansol, any location and enjoy the infrastructure set up by the state. Promoting the state, the chief minister said Bengal is congenial for business, harping on the unity and integrity. No divisive forces can ever divide the state on religious lines. Bengal is not afraid of anyone, nor it will bow to any forces without giving a fight, Miss Banerjee said.

Superstar Salman Khan, in his address was effusive in his praise for Mamata Banerjee and thanked her for inviting him to her south Kolkata residence earlier this year and lavished praise on her humble living despite being the chief minister of the state. Khan also mentioned the contribution of many noted Bengali filmmakers, who had contributed to films in Mumbai including Uttam Kumar, Saumitra Chatterjee, Kishore Kumar, Hemanta Mukherjee, Salil Chowdhury.
The National Medical Commission (NMC), the highest regulatory authority monitoring medical education in the country, is all set to prepare strong guidelines to restrict the nature of advertisements given by corporate hospitals across states and Union territories.

The NMC in its meeting on Thursday decided to form a committee to verify all aspects in connection with advertisements employed by private healthcare establishments including hospitals, nursing homes, diagnostic centres and doctors attached with these corporate facilities. The committee will prepare a report and submit it to the Supreme Court, sources in the NMC said, requesting anonymity. The committee would also explore guidelines on what kind of advertisements could be employed by corporate sector hospitals and doctors, who are associated with these units.

The new rules will monitor the nature of advertisements by corporate hospitals and medical practitioners to streamline the professional conduct of the latter. There is a provision of Professional Conduct of Registered Medical Practitioners in the NMC rules. The NMCs decision to form the committee comes at the backdrop of a notice issued to the regulatory body for doctors by the apex court.

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Earlier this year, a Mumbaibased infertility expert had filed a public interest litigation (PIL) in the apex court contending that there is an alarming situation created by unfettered advertising by corporate hospitals and the newly emerged venture capital funded healthcare start-ups. According to the petition, instances of unethical advertising and illegal direct or indirect solicitation of work by corporate hospitals as well as medical practitioners affiliated with them are reported regularly.

Every city and town across the country is flooded with advertisements through media, billboards, hoardings etc where corporate hospitals and private medical practitioners are found giving publicities in order to woo patients. Sometimes, this trend is both misleading and confusing to patients, felt some healthcare professionals.
Trinamul Congress has congratulated the state government after Kolkata became the safest city in India for the third consecutive time, according to the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) data. Trinamul Congress tweeted: We rejoice as Kolkata achieves this milestone once again.

Under the able guidance of Smt @MamataOfficial and the constant vigilance of @KolkataPolice, crime rates have significantly plummeted. Beyond its richness in culture, food, music, and art, Kolkata also nurtures a sense of security seldom found elsewhere. The NCRB data has silenced the BJP leaders both from the state and Delhi who often criticize the city as the haven for crimes where women are not secured.

After coming to power in 2011, chief minister Mamata Banerjee increased the police budget and a huge amount of money was spent to instal CCTV cameras across the city. Almost every area under the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) is fitted with CCTV cameras.

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The introduction of Safe Drive Save Life has been effective and has reduced road accidents. Women police stations are working well and atrocities of women have gone down. The traffic sergeants on motorcycles have been asked to intensify vigil and organize naka checking to stop drunk driving.
Thirty two-year-old Johannes Haucke, a German architect, who is now touring Junglemahal on his motorcycle, feels that the roads are very good and can be compared to those existing in his country. Mr Haucke is touring in his Honda CRF 250L. He has imported his bike from Germany and started his tour from Kolkata. A resident of Cologne, said he is using a Japanese motorcycle be cause it is light and easy to manoeuvre.

Talking to The Statesman, Mr Haucke said, I am amazed to see the roads and the scenic beauty in Junglemahal. The roads can be compared to the roads we have in Germany. They are smooth and free from potholes which make the ride very comfortable. I will have to go back to Europe next week but I propose to come back to Junglemahal and stay here for four months watching nature from close quarters.

This is for the first time when a German tourist is exploring the area on a motorcycle, said Sumit Dutta, founder of Jhargram tourism and member of Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO). Recently, a German team comprising 11 members visited Jhargram. Sayak Nandi, assistant director of India tourism, Kolkata, under the Ministry of tourism said It is great news for rural Bengal and tourism industry that German and other foreign tourists are showing interest to explore the lush green landscapes far from the tourist spots in the cities.

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It is a game-changer in terms of diversification of tourist destinations and also a moral boost to the rural populace. Mr Haucke, who stayed at Sonkupi Banjara camp situated at the foothills of Kukuburu Hill, Baghmundi, Purulia, said he would be visiting Jharkhand and then move to Varanasi. It was chief minister Mamata Banerjee, who visited Junglemahal after she came to power and was able to win the confidence of the local people.

Junglemahal had become a Maoist hotbed and tourists had tinned. Now, roads and bridges have been constructed which have made the area a tourist attraction. There are 100-plus registered homestays in Jhargram and 30-plus accommodations in staterun, private establishments and resorts.
Putin has signed a decree to increase the number of Russian occupation troops by 170,000. However, the increase in the size of the Russian army is not only due to the war in Ukraine, but also to other factors.

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This was stated by military expert Mykhailo Zhyrokhov in an exclusive interview with OBOZ.UA. At the same time, the total number of the aggressor country's army exceeds 2 million.

"I do not see a big problem here from a military point of view. Right now, they are optimizing their armed forces, consolidating them, forming several new divisions. Of course, we can say that this is related to the war in Ukraine - yes, it is. But it is also due to other factors. For example, the fact that Finland joined NATO," the expert noted.

If earlier a relatively small number of troops were deployed on the Russian-Finnish border, now the Russians need to increase the number of combat units in many areas, including the Finnish one.

The situation in Armenia, which has a certain Western orientation, is also unclear. So, Russia needs additional forces in this area as well. There are certain military threats to them, and they are responding in this way.

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The expert also noted that Ukrainians went through a similar process in 2017-2018, when the Verkhovna Rada increased the size of the Armed Forces. Increasing the enemy's army by 170 thousand actually means expanding the number of standard military units. This includes officers, contractors and sergeants. For example, if you imagine that four new divisions are being formed, you need to add the same number of regular units to the army. Therefore, this does not mean that everything will be provided at the expense of the mobilized, because sooner or later they will also have to be dismissed.

Regarding the northern direction, the expert noted that there is an ongoing border war that began in April 2022. There are constant attacks and continuous strikes. However, it is a mistake to say that the Russians are trying to open a new front. There has been no increase in their military grouping on the border.

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They have deployed conscripts on the border to guard fortifications and simply keep an eye on the border. Moreover, the units that are being withdrawn from the front are sent there as a rest stop, as there is no such fierce shelling. So, there is no specific threat from the north.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, more than 100 relatives of the occupiers complained to Putin about "signs of deliberate extermination" of those mobilized near Avdiivka, Donetsk region of Ukraine. They say that the leadership is in a hurry to capture the city before the Russian president's press conference and the New Year 2024. In addition, even the occupiers with injuries have been sent to the assault.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
A new Early Childhood Education (ECE) report, released by a leading non-profit organisation working in the primary and pre-primary education sector in India, recognised the need for Play-based learning as a fundamental curriculum for children to learn faster and effectively.

The report also underscored the need for classroom resources to be more user-friendly to promote their usage among children.

The Central Square Foundation (CSF) released the report titled Building Strong Foundations: Examining Early Childhood Education in India. The report stems from an in-depth Situational Analysis Study conducted across 200 Early Childhood Education (ECE) classrooms in India aimed at validating existing research data and identifying opportunities for enhancing ECE programmes, shed light on crucial aspects that call for urgent and immediate action.

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Speaking at the release of the report, Shaveta Sharma-Kukreja, CEO and MD of CSF, said, The future of ECE in India hinges on addressing systemic challenges and operational hurdles to effectively implement well-crafted policies. Despite their forward-looking nature, these policies struggle to translate into optimal student learning outcomes and school readiness.

Elevating the status of ECE and allocating increased financial resources are critical steps in that direction. Enhanced policy implementation aligns with Sustainable Development Goals and the NIPUN Bharat Mission, ensuring improved learning outcomes for all children, she said.

Recognising the imperative need for research on programmatic factors affecting the quality of ECE, CSF delved into the intricacies of the ECE ecosystem across select states. The primary and secondary research looked at aspects of ECE delivery including curriculum design, teaching-learning time, effectiveness of learning, teacher training, monitoring quality, and parental perception.

The report advocates for prompt remedial actions to address these gaps and ensure a robust learning foundation for young students. It further aims to understand the current models of public provisioning of ECE in India, study different aspects of delivery that affect learning in the classrooms and outline the way forward for other stakeholders within the ECE ecosystem.

For this Study, CSF reached out to a mix of Anganwadis, co-located Anganwadis, and pre-primary sections in government primary schools (either as 1-year or 2-year pre-primary programme) between March  May, 2023, across seven states  Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh.

The survey analysis was partly supported by Key Education Foundation, a non-profit working in the space of early childhood education, which conducted research on classroom curriculum analysis on pedagogy, ease of use and teaching-learning resources.

The report recognises the global outlook and progressive nature of Indias ECE policies while at the same time it observes that the countrys early learning outcomes are sub-par.
New Municipal Commissioners were appointed in Ludhiana, Bathinda, and Jalandhar with Sandeep Rishi taking charge in Ludhiana, Rahul in Bathinda, and Aditya Uppal in Jalandhar.

This development unfolded as part of the broader reshuffling of administrative roles, which saw eight IAS and 11 PCS officers being transferred recently.

Additionally, the Punjab Roadways Transport Corporation (PRTC) welcomed Ravinder Singh as its new Managing Director. Among other notable changes, Chander Gaind assumed the additional responsibility of Secretary, Water Resources, and three IAS officers were designated as Additional Deputy Commissioners (ADCs) in various districts.

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This reshuffle also extended to the Regional Transport Officers in Patiala, Sangrur, and Jalandhar, where Naman Marken, Kuldeep Bawa, and Aditya Gupta assumed their respective roles. Overall, seven additional officers received new posting orders as part of this administrative restructuring.
Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Atishi on Wednesday inspected the under-construction flyover at Anand Vihar and expressed her dissatisfaction over the delay in the construction work.

The minister pulled up the concerned officials and issued an ultimatum to them to complete the project by April next year.

Noting that this flyover is a crucial project in making East Delhi traffic congestion-free, she said any delay in its construction will not be tolerated.

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The Kejriwal Government will not tolerate any delay in important projects like this. The construction of the flyover is lagging behind the scheduled time, causing daily traffic jams affecting thousands of vehicles, leading to inconvenience for the commuters, Atishi said.

She said every necessary step should be taken to complete the work on the new set timeline.

If needed, double the manpower and machines, and work day and night. In any case, the flyover must be dedicated to the public by April, the minister said.

While cautioning the officials of the consequences of delay in work, Atishi said, If the construction of the flyover is not completed by April, officers should be prepared for action against them.

The PWD officials must work towards making their planning, monitoring and evaluation system more efficient to avoid delays in any other projects, she added.

Apart from that, she said that better traffic management with proper planning should be implemented on this road stretch to avoid any inconvenience to the commuters.

The under-construction flyover is approximately 1,440 meters long and six lanes wide. After its completion, people will be relieved from the problem of traffic jams at the red light at Ramprastha Colony, Vivek Vihar, and Shreshth Vihar.

Approximately 1.48 lakh vehicles are expected to pass through this flyover daily, providing them with significant convenience in commuting.

During the construction of this flyover, various tasks such as ramps, footpaths, signage, street lights, drainage, horticulture, and others will also be undertaken.
Following Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals order for an audit of the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) by Comptroller Auditor General of India (CAG), the Delhi BJP said here on Wednesday that the party was not amused by the move and hence wont remain silent.

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva called it the result of the partys allegations that chief minister had to clarify for the first time on the scam and corruption of the Delhi Jal Board.

However, he alleged that by accepting our demand for a CAG audit, the chief minister tried to suppress the Jal Board scams.

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Asserting that the chief minister has been exposed by us, Sachdeva said, The accounts of Delhi Jal Board have not been prepared since 2017-18. We fail to understand which accounts will be audited by the CAG? People of Delhi want a reply to existing CAG queries on misappropriation of project funds, difference in bank accounts and continued water tanker scam.

The Delhi BJP also claimed that the Kejriwal Government does not like officers who follow the administrative system.

Kejriwal on Wednesday ordered an audit of the DJB for the past 15 years saying would bring out the truth and if someone found guilty of any wrongdoing shall be punished. He also said in case the audit does not point to any such corruption, it would be a befitting reply to all those leveling allegations of scams.
In a surprising turn of events, Kingsley Ben-Adir, known for his roles as Malcolm X and Barack Obama, found himself facing an unexpected challenge  portraying the legendary reggae icon, Bob Marley. The actor, initially hesitant about auditioning for the role in the upcoming biopic Bob Marley: One Love, shares his journey and the unconventional methods he employed in preparation.

As Ziggy Marley, son of the late reggae legend, approached Ben-Adir with the proposition, the actor had reservations. Despite having previously embodied iconic figures, the prospect of stepping into Marleys shoes left him doubtful. I cant sing. I cant dance, Ben-Adir admits candidly during a Zoom interview with EW from his native U.K. The actor even humorously questioned whether the casting directors had exhausted their global search for the perfect fit.

However, the allure of the role persisted, prompting Ben-Adir to overcome his initial reservations. Surrendering to the challenge, he dedicated a weekend to studying Marleys performances. His fascination peaked during Marleys 1977 rendition of War at Londons Rainbow Theater, becoming a pivotal source of inspiration for the actor.

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With a nod of approval from Ziggy Marley, who also served as a producer alongside mother Rita, sister Cedella, and executive producer wife Orly, Ben-Adir embarked on the arduous journey of embodying the reggae pioneer and activist. The biopic, titled One Love and directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green of King Richard fame, promises an intimate exploration of Marleys life and legacy.

The narrative unfolds, tracing Marleys tumultuous journey from the 1976 assassination attempt to his historic performance at the One Love Peace Concert in Kingston, Jamaica, in April 1978. The concert aimed to foster unity amidst the political turmoil between Jamaica Labour Party and Peoples National Party.

Adding depth to the storyline, Lashana Lynch takes on the role of Marleys wife, Rita, providing audiences with a comprehensive look into the personal and public facets of the reggae icons life.

As Kingsley Ben-Adir braves the challenge of bringing Bob Marley to life on the silver screen, One Love emerges as a promising venture, offering viewers an insiders perspective on the man behind the music and the indelible mark he left on the world.
The Rajasthan Bandh called in support of the demand the arrest of the culprits behind the murder of National President of Shri Rajput Karni Sena Sukhdev Gogamedi paralysed road traffic even as schools remained closed in parts of Rajasthan.

Sporadic incidents of clashes between the police and protestors, stone pelting, tyre burning and damaging shops were reported from Jaipur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, and Sojat city, a senior police officer of Law and Order at Police Headquarters told The Statesman.

Director General of Police Umesh Mishra set up a special investigation team (SIT) headed by Additional Director General of Police (Crime) to go into the case and announced a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh for anyone who provides the police with clues to the two culprits.

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Meanwhile, the Rajasthan Police have identified two gunners, one from Makrana in the state, and another from Mahendragarh, Haryana, said to be an army jawan, as accused behind the murder.

As the new BJP government has not yet been formed in the state, Governor Kalraj Mishra called the chief secretary, home secretary, director general of police and police commissioner, Jaipur to Raj Bhavan for a review of the law and order situation in the state.

The governor called the murder in broad daylight a serious matter and instructed the police heads to constantly monitor the situation arising from organised crime. He said the police and administration should take effective steps at all levels to ensure that law and order does not deteriorate in the state at any level.

Besides state capital Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Churu, Chittorgarh and Ajmer observed total bandh. The agitators were seen closing shops, smashing the glass doors of shops and pulling down street vend and road side shops. Stray incidents of tyre burning were reported from Jaipur and Udaipur,

At Bhilwara railway station, a passenger train was stopped by the protesters by standing on the rail track. Similar cases were reported from Jodhpur railway station. National Highway 44 in Dholpur remained jammed for hours. Highway services were also affected on the Delhi-Jaipur, Jodhpur-Jaipur.

Gogamedi was allegedly shot dead by two unknown assailants here at his house in the Shyam Nagar area. One person, who brought them to the house, was also gunned down. One of the security guards of Gogamedi and an aide also sustained bullet injuries.

It is pertinent to mention that Gogamedis group is a faction of Shri Rajput Karni Sena (earlier run by late Lokendra Kalvi) that was very active in protesting against the Bollywood movie Padmavat in 2017 and Ekta Kapoors Jodha Akbar was also opposed by this group in 2014-15.
In a significant breakthrough in the sensational murder of Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena president Sukhdev Singh Gugamedi, the Rajasthan Police has identified both the shooters. One of the shooters has been identified as Rohit, a resident of Makrana, while the other is Nitin Fauji, a resident of Haryanas Mahendragarh. Nitin is reportedly in the Indian Army.

According to reports, Nitin had come to his home in Haryana on November 1 after taking leave from the Army. However, he left without informing his family and hasnt been in contact since then.

The police are now looking for info on the shooters whereabouts. A team of Rajasthan police has reportedly interrogated some of jailed gangsters connected to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Rohit Godara, a notorious gangster of the Bishnoi gang has claimed responsibility for the murder.

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Gogamedi was killed inside his residence in Jaipur on Tuesday afternoon. The shooters had come to his residence seeking a meeting with the deceased Karni Sena leader, reportedly to invite him to a wedding.

They were accompanied by another individual who also died in the firing. The third person has been identified as Navin Shekhawat, a resident of Rajasthans Shahpura. Naveen was a member of the Karni Sena and he had previously worked with Gogamedi.

The development comes hours after Rajasthan DGP Umesh Mishra announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the chilling murder of Gogamedi. The SIT team is headed by Additional Director General (Crime) Dinesh MN.

Additionally, the police have also announced a cash reward of Rs 5 lakh for information on the whereabouts of the accused.

Meanwhile, protests were held across Rajasthan by the members of the Rajput community. The protesters demanded the immediate arrest of the accused. A Rajasthan bandh was also called today in protest against the murder.
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai informed the Rajya Sabha that there snatching cases across Delhi declined by 7.20 per cent as compared to the last year.

In a written reply to a question in the upper house on Wednesday, the MoS Home said, as informed by the Delhi Police, 6,958 cases of snatching were reported during the year 2023 (till 15 November), against 7,498 cases in the corresponding period of 2022, which shows a decline by 7.20 per cent.

For curbing the menace of snatching, the Delhi Police introduced measures like identification of hotspots of snatching and community policing programmes, etc., the minister said told the house.

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Replying to a query whether it is also a fact that many criminals enter neighbouring states after committing crimes, the minister said to deal with inter-state movement of criminals, inter-state coordination meetings at police headquarters level are regularly organised for sharing criminal intelligence and inputs about suspected terrorist/ sympathizer/harbours hideouts.

Besides, such coordination meetings are also held at District DCP level with Districts of neighbouring states, the minister said in further elaborating on details of measures taken in coordination with the police of neighbouring states.

He said this in a written response to a question on the law and order situation in Delhi by Aam Aadmi Party member Sushil Kumar Gupta.

Meanwhile, in a written reply to questions of Congress MPs Dhiraj Prasad Sahu and Dr Amee Yajnik, Rai informed the Rajya Sabha that 13 police stations in Delhi are running on rented premises.

He said the Delhi Police had informed that out of the total 225 police stations, and only 13 are running on rented premises.

He further said that the police carries out the responsibility of maintaining the Law and Order in the National Capital. In order to enable the Delhi Police to carry out its responsibility effectively, the government provides adequate funds every year as per the requirements projected.

Setting up of a police station as per requirement and infrastructure development thereof is a continuous and ongoing process, MoS added.
RJDs National Vice President, Shivanand Tiwary, has been sentenced to one year in prison by a Patna court in a criminal defamation case filed by Bihar minister Sanjay Kumar Jha five years ago.

The court, presided over by Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Sarika Bahaliya, also imposed a fine of 10,000 on Tiwary, a former state minister. Jha, who held key portfolios like Water Resources and Information and Public Relations in the Nitish Kumar government, filed the petition in 2018 when he was a national general secretary of the JD(U).

The defamation suit was related to comments made by Tiwary about Jhas close relationship with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, the JD(U)s supreme leader.

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The court granted provisional bail to Tiwary and provided a 30-day window for him to appeal the order.

Tiwary, a veteran socialist leader with a longstanding association with both Lalu Prasad and Nitish Kumar, has been a member of parties floated by the two leaders at different times.
Garba of Gujarat was inscribed in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity by UNESCO, under the provisions of the 2003 Convention for the

Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage during the 18th meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage from 5-9 December in Botswana.

Garba of Gujarat is the 15th ICH element from India to join this list. This inscription underscores Garbas pivotal role as a unifying force that fosters social and gender inclusivity. Garba as a dance form is entrenched deeply in ritualistic and devotional roots, involving people from all walks of life and it continues to thrive as a vibrant living tradition bringing communities together.

Union Minister of Culture G. Kishan Reddy in an X post said that this listing is testimony to the tireless efforts of the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to showcase our rich culture, traditions & heritage to the world.

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The Evaluation Body of the 2003 Convention in its report this year, lauded India for its dossier with outstanding supporting material and for nominating an element that champions unity in diversity and cultivates social equality among varied communities.
The popular Egyptian band Black Theama released the new single Alam Gharib (A Strange World) on their YouTube channel on Thursday.
The chilling murder of Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena national president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi has angered the Rajput community in Rajasthan. Several Rajput outfits, including Gogamedis Karni Sena, have called a Rajasthan Bandh today in protest against his broad daylight murder inside his residence in Jaipur. The protesters have also threatened not to allow the administration of oath to the new chief minister in Rajasthan if Gogamedis killers are not arrested.

Gogamedi, one of the prominent youth leaders of the Rajput community in Rajasthan, was shot dead inside his residence in Jaipurs Shyam Nagar on Tuesday. Three assailants had come to his residence seeking a meeting with him and after speaking to him for about ten minutes, two of them pulled out guns and fired multiple shots at Gogamedi. One of the attackers who remained guard outside was also killed in the crossfire, the police said.

Two of Gogamedis associates were also injured in the attack. They were rushed to Metro Mass Hospital in Mansarovar where doctors declared Gogamedia dead. His associates are undergoing treatment in the hospital where one of them is said to be in critical condition.

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Following the attack, Rohit Godara, a notorious gangster of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, has taken responsibility for the murder in a purported Facebook post. The police are yet to confirm the gangs claim.

The murder sparked massive protests in Jaipur and other Rajput-majority areas across Rajasthan. Supporters and wellwishers of Gogamedi gathered outside the Metro hospital and staged a Dharna. BJP leader and former LoP Rajendra Rathore, a Rajput community leader, went to the dharna site and assured them of bringing the perpetrators to justice as soon as possible.

Besides the state capital Jaipur, protests also erupted in Jhunjhunu, Churu, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bhadra, and several other districts and towns of Rajasthan.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan police chief Umesh Mishra has said that one of the killed attackers has been identified and efforts are on to nab the remaining two assailants. He assured their arrest as soon as possible and appealed to the Rajput community members to maintain peace.

Gogamedi came to the limelight after his outfit organised protests against the release of the Bollywood movie Padmaavat for allegedly distorting historical facts about the Rajput community. He formed the Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena following a split from Lokednra Singh Kalvis Rajput Karni Sena.
The Congress party has accused Union Home Minister Amit Shah of putting across wrong facts in the house regarding Indias first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and outrightly rejected his claim that Kashmir suffered for several years because of Nehrus two blunders. Congress leader Pramod Tiwari said that it has become a habit of the BJP to abuse the countrys first prime minister and asserted that India would have lost Srinagar had Nehru not used his intelligence.

It has become a habit of BJP to abuse Jawaharlal Nehru and put across wrong factsYou can say things today since Jawaharlal Nehru is not here to answer. If Jawaharlal Nehru had not used his intelligence and made efforts, we would not have Srinagar with us, he said.

Another Congress leader Manish Tewari also questioned Amit Shahs claims and said that the decision to announce the ceasefire in the 1947 war with Pakistan was taken by the then Nehru Cabinet on military advice given by the then Commander in Chief of the Indian Army General Roy Bucher.

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I do not know what is the source of the home ministers information but historically speaking, the then PM of India was given considered military advice by the then Commander in Chief of the Indian Army General Roy Bucher and the advice was that the war with Pakistan had ground to a stalemate and therefore a ceasefire was imperative. The decision taken by the then Nehru Cabinet and he didnt take it alone, it was a Cabinet decision, said Manish Tewari.

On Shahs second blunder claim, National Conference leader and the Congress partys INDIA ally Farood Abdullah claimed that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had also suggested taking the issue to the United Nations.

At that time, the army was diverted to save Poonch and Rajouri. If it had not been done, Poonch and Rajouri would have also gone to PakistanThere was no other way than this, Lord Mountbatten and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had also suggested that this should go to the United Nations, he said.

What Amit Shah had said in Lok Sabha?

Speaking in the Lok Sabha during the Winter Session of Parliament today, Amit Shah blamed Nehru for the problems Jammu and Kashmir has been facing for the last 75 years and pointed out two of his decisions.

I stand in the House and say responsibly that Kashmir suffered for several years because of the two blunders during the tenure of PM Jawaharlal Nehru. The biggest mistake was that when our forces were winning, a ceasefire was announced and PoK came into existence. Had the ceasefire been delayed by three days, PoK would have been a part of India. Second was the blunder to take our issue to the UN (United Nations), he said.
Mizoram Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Wednesday officially handed over an appointment letter to Lalduhoma, leader of the Zoram Peoples Movement (ZPM), marking a significant transition in Mizorams leadership.

Following a resounding victory in the just-concluded assembly elections in the state, Lalduhoma met the governor and staked his claim to form a government in the state. He will succeed Zoramthanga as the chief minister.

The swearing-in ceremony of the new government will be held on December 8, Friday.

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Expressing gratitude to the people of the state for their overwhelming support, Lalduhoma highlighted the fatigue among Mizorams youth with the outgoing Mizo National Front (MNF) regime, emphasizing the need for fresh ideas and principles in governance.

Anticipating a shift in governance focus, Lalduhoma outlined plans to address multifaceted issues across the states 45 departments.

A press conference is scheduled after the swearing-in, during which the new governments primary objectives will be announced.

Amidst celebrations, the ZPM commemorated its victory with a special worship service.

The ZPM emerged victorious in Mizoram by winning 27 out of 40 assembly constituencies. The Mizo National Front (MNF) won 10 seats, the BJP won two seats and Congress won one.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit 2023 that will be attended by corporate giants like Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani in Dehradun on December 8. Prime Ministers office confirmed this on Wednesday, four days after Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami called upon the prime minister on December 2.

As Dhami government crossed its 2.5 lakh MoUs target for investors summit, the PMO informed it about Modis willingness to inaugurate the event on Friday.

The two-day event will be marked by the presence thousands of the investors from India and abroad as entire state machinery is giving final touches to the preparations and groom the state capital. State government officials informed that PMs attendance will help the state attract more investors to the state after the event as well.

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The much-awaited nod from the PMO has been received by the state government. Summit will be attended by thousands of investors and delegates from across the world. It will witness participation of union ministers, ambassadors of various countries along with leading industrialists and host of other dignitaries. We have already crossed Rs 2.5 lakh crore MoUs target for the summit being organised at Forest Research Institute (FRI) campus Dehradun said director general, state information department Bansidhar Tiwari.

According to Tiwari and other officials more than 2.5 lakh Crore MoUs have been inked by the state government with different business houses and public sector undertakings in the past three and half months.

Apart from this more 29,000 crore MoUs have already been grounded for investment. These projects have moved ahead one step forward towards implemtation. We are upbeat the way things are moving fast and hope to cross Rs 3 lakh crore MoUs mark in next two days added Tiwari.

The Dhami Government in its efforts to fulfill the targetted MoUs target held more four road shows outside India in Britain and Middle East and nearly four roadshows in Delhi, Mumbai, Banglore, Chennai and Ahmedabar to attract investors for the summit.

According to the DG information Summit is a step forward towards commissioning Uttarakhand as a new investment destination. The two day event summit is being held with the theme Peace to Prosperity.
A four-year-old girl fell into a borewell in Madhya Pradeshs Rajgarh district on Tuesday evening. She could not be saved despite being rescued alive from a depth of around 22 feet after about nine hours of a rescue operation.

The child was brought to Bhopal in a serious condition after being rescued but she died during treatment here early Wednesday morning.

The girl child was brought to the state governments Hamidia Hospital at Bhopal but doctors could not save her life.

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The child, identified as Mahi, had fallen into the 150-feet-deep borewell at around 5.40 pm in her maternal grandparents village of Pipliya Rasoda under Boda police station jurisdiction in Rajgarh district. Her family members informed the villagers and the police were also informed.

A team of police personnel and rescuers of the State Disaster Emergency Response Force (SDERF) reached the spot and arrangements were made to provide oxygen inside the borewell shaft.

The child had got stuck at a depth of about 22 feet and rescuers began digging a parallel hole to bring her out.

According to Rajgarh SP Dharamraj Meena, the rescuers dug a 25 feet deep pit parallel to the borewell and connected the two pits and succeeded in bringing out the child at around 2.45 am but she was in an unconscious condition by then.

She was rushed to the Civil Hospital at Pachore, but her condition deteriorated en route.

The girl was then brought to the state-run Hamidia Hospital in Bhopal, about 70-km away, where she died during treatment at around 6 am this morning.
A meeting of the Opposition alliance, Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), was held here on Wednesday to discuss evolve a roadmap for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

However, the meeting of the heads of the political parties, which are part of the INDIA, will be held in the third week of December.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Raghav Chadha, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Mahua Maji and Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) chief Jayant Chuadhary, among others attended the meeting convened by the Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge at his residence here.

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Former Congress president and MP Rahul Gandhi and partys leader in the Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury were also present at the meeting.

According to party sources, leaders of 17 political parties from the Opposition alliance including the Janata Dal (United), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Samajwadi Party (SP) and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) attended the meeting.

Before the meeting, AAP leader Chadha said that the discussion would be focused on 2024 Lok Sabha polls and how to take the INDIA alliance forward. We have to unitedly fight the elections. Together we have to make a better blueprint for the country, he added.

Notably, the meeting of the INDIA bloc comes in the wake of BJPs landslide victory in the Hindi heartland states of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan.

The INDIA is an umbrella of the Opposition which was formed in July this year to take on the ruling BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Raising the pitch on hindutva, two senior leaders and Union Ministers of Bharatiya Janata party alleged that Congress has no respect for Sanatan Dharma here on Wednesday.

In two separate interactions with the media, both the leaders targeted the main opposition party saying that instead of accepting the defeat in the current elections gracefully they are degrading Hindus, Sanatan Dharma due to arrogance.

Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology and a senior Bharatiya Janata Party(BJP) leader Rajeev Chandrashekhar speaking to the media said that Congress MP Rahul Gandhi is living on divisive politics. And his party men and alliance openly claimed that Sanatan dharma is dengue and malaria.

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Speaking to the media, the Minister said, The man who does Bharat Jodo Yatra lives on divisive politics. This is a new chapter of divisive politics started these

Taking a dig at Gandhi, Chandrashekhar said, The 55 year old young matured leader Rahul Gandhi travels abroad and tells the world that the constitution of India and democracy of India is under threat. His partys Udyan Stalin calls Sanatan Dharma Dengue and Malaria. He also targeted the India alliance of Congress. He alleged that the alliance of Congress Party organizes a program called Uproot Hindutava. There is no comment from Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi on these statements and programs. There is no reference of Bharat Jodo here. There are people from the India alliance who are in support of the terrorist orgaisation Hamas. In the recent elections he has only fought on the basis of caste and religion. Bharat Mata Kaun hai ? The irresponsible statement of Revent Reddy, the newly appointed CMs comment targeting a particular region is acceptable.

Further he said that the new strategy that Congress Party has adopted is to create a divide between north and south. They want to live on this divisive politics. The actual aim is not to jodo bharat but to todo bharat.

Raising objections, another Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting said that the Chief Minister designated in Telangana is saying that the DNA of Telangana is better than Bihar.

I would like to ask Rahul Gandhi why he is silent now? This is not divisive politics. This thought is not about Bharat Todo. The India Alliance wants to create a divide between north and south. I want to know what is so compelling for Sonia and Rahul Gandhi that they are dividing the country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Dehradun on Friday to inaugurate the Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit 2023 being held at Forest Research Institute, Dehradun. The PM will also address a gathering on the occasion.

The summit is a step towards establishing Uttarakhand as a new investment destination. The two- day summit is being held on 8-9 December with the theme Peace to Prosperity.

The summit will be attended by thousands of investors and delegates from across the world. It will witness the participation of union ministers, ambassadors of various countries and leading industrialists, among others.

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The Rajya Sabha is likely to continue the discussion, initiated on Tuesday, on the prevailing economic situation in the country, as the Parliament convenes on Day 3 of the ongoing Winter Session on Wednesday.

According to sources, the discussion on a short-duration notice on the economic situation in the country, which was initiated by Trinamool Congress MP Derek OBrien on Tuesday, is to be continued in the Upper House on Wednesday.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is likely to table a statement showing the Supplementary Demands for Grants, 2023-24, sources said.

Further, BJP MP Sumer Solanki and Biju Janata Dal MP Niranjan Bishi are likely to initiate a discussion on the Study Visit Report of the Committee on the Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes to Havelock Island, Port Blair, Mahabalipuram and Mumbai from August 24, 2023 to August 29, 2023 in the Upper House.

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According to sources, Aam Aadmi Party MP Ashok Kumar Mittal and Shiv Sena MP Anil Desai are also likely to table the Twenty Fifth Report of the Department-Related Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs (Seventeenth Lok Sabha) on Action Taken by the Government on the Observations/Recommendations contained in the Twentieth Report of the Committee on Demands for Grants of the Ministry of External Affairs for the year 2023-24.

On the second day of the Winter Session, on Tuesday, the Lok Sabha saw a debate on the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023 and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023.

On Monday, the first day of the Winter Session, two Bills were tabled and passed, with the Rajya Sabha also deciding to lift the suspension of AAP MP Raghav Chadha.

The Standing Committee reports on The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and The Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, 2023 were also tabled in the two Houses.

The Winter Session will culminate on December 22.
As preparations are in full swing at Lal Bahadur Stadium the timing for the swearing-in ceremony of A Revanth Reddy as the chief minister of Telangana tomorrow was changed. He will be administered the oath at 1:04 pm by the governor instead of 10:28 am.

The venue was also changed from Raj Bhavan to the stadium last night to accommodate more people, including senior Congress Sonia Gandhi, expected to attend the ceremony of the first Congress chief minister in the state.

Meanwhile, celebrations are going on at the ancestral village of Reddy, Kondareddypalli, in the Nagarkurnool district of the state.

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On Wednesday morning, a delegation of the Congress delivered a letter at the governors office stating that all the 64 MLAs of the party have elected Revanth Reddy as CLP leader and urged her to make arrangements for the swearing-in ceremony.

Chief Secretary Shanti Kumari and newly-appointed DGP Ravi Gupta inspected the venue and reviewed the arrangements.

The chief minister-designate reached New Delhi last night to meet chairperson of Congress Parliamentary Party Sonia Gandhi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and invite them to his swearing-in ceremony.

He also met the Gandhi siblings and invited them to the ceremony. Along with Kharge, Mrs Gandhi may be present at the swearing-in ceremony.

Today, when asked at Parliament if she would be attending the oath-taking ceremony, Mr Gandhi replied, Probably, yes.

Soon after the Congress Working Committees (CWC) meeting in September in Hyderabad, Mrs Gandhi had proclaimed, It has been my dream to see a Congress government in Telangana that will work for all sections of the society.

She had also personally urged the electorate through a video released on the day the campaign ended to vote for Congress.

Today, after Reddy met Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, the latter took to social media to congratulate him. Under his leadership, the Congress government will fulfill all its Guarantees to the people of Telangana and build a Prajala Sarkar, said the Congress MP who had cleared Reddys ascension to the top post along with Mallikarjun Kharge.

Along with the chief minister, another senior leader from a Dalit community, Bhatti Vikramarka, may take oath as the deputy chief minister. The Cabinet can induct up to 17 ministers including the chief minister and the Congress will like to get it right while maintaining regional and caste balance as well as accommodate senior leaders.
As agreed with the Mekong countries, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) co-chair Myanmars Deputy Prime Minister and Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Than Swe will jointly host the eighth LMC Foreign Ministers Meeting in Beijing on December 7.

CCTV: To follow up on your announcement that Foreign Minister Wang Yi will host the eighth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers Meeting on December 7, how does China see the current development of LMC and what is Chinas expectation for the meeting?

Wang Wenbin: LMC is the first new sub-regional cooperation mechanism jointly initiated and launched by the six Lancang-Mekong countries. Over the past seven years since its launch, the six Lancang-Mekong countries have built up consensus and worked together at the LMC platform in the spirit of mutual benefit for common development, and achieved a number of practical outcomes. Connectivity projects such as the China-Laos Railway, the China-Thailand Railway and the Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport have boosted the regions trade and cross-border travel, doubling the annual trade volume between China and the Mekong countries over the past seven years. The LMC Special Fund has supported hundreds of livelihood cooperation projects, including the LMC Bumper Harvest Projects, the Lancang-Mekong Sweet Spring Action, and the Green Lancang-Mekong Initiative, bringing tangible benefits to the people of these countries.

Amid changes and instability in the world, China attaches great importance to the LMC Foreign Ministers Meeting. We hope to have an in-depth exchange of views with Mekong countries at the meeting on deeper and more substantive cooperation, jointly make the region an exemplar for high-quality 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, and build a Lancang-Mekong community with a shared future that enjoys close people-to-people bond, mutual help and common prosperity.

AFP: The China-EU Summit will be held in Beijing this week. Yesterday, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said that the EU will not tolerate over time an imbalance in the trade relationship between the EU and China. She added that We have tools to protect our market, but we prefer to have negotiated solutions. What is Chinas response to this? Is China concerned over the possibility of a trade war with the EU in the future?

Wang Wenbin: First of all, let me say that China has never deliberately sought trade surplus. On the contrary, we have consistently advanced high-level opening up and invited all countries to share Chinas mega market with a population of over 1.4 billion by hosting the China International Import Expo and the China International Supply Chain Expo. The current China-EU trade situation is a result under the combined influence of macro-economic environment, international trade conditions and the industrial structures of the two sides. Besides, in light of the deep integration of global industrial and supply chains, trade statistics does not reflect the profit distribution in China-EU trade. Over one-third of export from EU companies in China was sold to the EU. Although China appears to have the trade surplus, in fact, the EU has reaped considerable profits. Moreover, trade involves both sides. If the EU sets strict restrictions on the export of high-tech products to China on the one hand, and on the other, hopes to greatly increase export to China, this may not be a reasonable expectation.

When it comes to tackling the prominent problems faced by Europe and effectively addressing global challenges, China is a reliable and indispensable partner for the EU. Properly settling differences through dialogue and consultation is an important lesson weve learned from how the China-EU relations have grown. We hope the EU will work with China together to create sound atmosphere for the upcoming China-EU summit and make joint efforts for the sound and steady growth of China-EU relations.

Jiji Press: According to reports, China has recently tightened export control over urea and ammonium phosphate. The export of urea is suspended and the export inspection application for ammonium phosphate was also asked to stop. What are the reasons behind this? Can the Foreign Ministry share some comment?

Wang Wenbin: China is a major producer and consumer of fertilizer. According to what we have learned from competent authorities, in the first ten months of this year, China has exported 25.72 million tonnes of fertilizer in total, up by 28.8 percent year-on-year, making itself a major participant in international fertilizer trade. As for your specific question, Id refer you to competent authorities.

Beijing Youth Daily: It was reported that the International Symposium Commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was held in Beijing recently. Can you share more information?

Wang Wenbin: On December 5, the China Foundation for Human Rights Development held the International Symposium Commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Beijing. Senior officials from Asian, African, Latin American and European countries and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights as well as diplomats in China, experts and scholars, and representatives from civil society organizations attended the symposium. Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the opening ceremony and delivered a keynote speech, in which he elaborated on the important views of President Xi Jinping on human rights, Chinas human rights development path, and Chinas position and propositions on global human rights governance. Relevant parties had in-depth discussions at the symposium on the promotion of economic, social and cultural rights, human rights development paths and global human rights governance, and shared their insights on ways of reforming and improving global human rights governance under the new situation. The Beijing Declaration issued at the symposium reflects international consensus and provides useful ideas on advancing the worlds human rights cause.

China stands ready to take this symposium as an opportunity to work with all parties to uphold the common values of mankind, step up human rights dialogue and cooperation, deepen exchanges and mutual learning, take an active part in global human rights governance, protect and promote human rights through security, development and cooperation, advance the worlds human rights cause, and jointly build a community with a shared future for mankind.

Reuters: Moodys on Tuesday put a downgrade warning on Chinas credit rating and said it expected Chinas economic growth to slow over the coming decade. Is there anything the foreign ministry has to offer to put foreign investors at ease, so that they will not be concerned about investing in China?

Wang Wenbin: The Ministry of Finance of China has made response to that, which you may refer to. Id like to stress that since the beginning of this year, Chinas macroeconomy has seen a sustained rebound and steady progress in high-quality development. New growth drivers of Chinas economy are delivering results. China is capable of deepening reform and addressing risks and challenges.

Multiple international institutions recently revised up their forecasts of Chinas economic growth for this year, expressing optimism about the strong internal driving force, resilience and potential of Chinas economy. The IMF and OECD revised up Chinas growth forecasts of 2023 to 5.4 percent and 5.2 percent respectively.

The fundamentals sustaining Chinas sound economic growth in the long run stay unchanged and will not change in the future. We have the confidence and ability to realize long-term steady development. Concerns expressed by Moodys over Chinas economic prospect and fiscal sustainability are unnecessary.

Just as some friends from the business community have said, China has become a synonym of the best investment destination. The next China is still China. We invite businesses from across the world to invest and cultivate success in China.

NHK: According to Hong Kong media reports, Agnes Chow Ting who is studying in Canada said she would not return to Hong Kong. In response to that, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR John Lee told an interview yesterday that they will do their utmost to pursue her and fugitives will be pursued for life unless they turn themselves in. Does the Foreign Ministry have any response to that?

Wang Wenbin: We support the government and judiciary of the Hong Kong SAR in performing their duties in accordance with the law.

Global Times: Its reported that the UN General Assembly (UNGA) at its 78th session adopted the resolution No first placement of weapons in outer space co-sponsored by China and Russia, which reaffirms the goal of preventing an arms race in outer space and calls on countries to start talks on international legal instrument based on the Draft Treaty on the Prevention of the Placement of Weapons in Outer Space, the Threat or Use of Force against Outer Space Objects (PPWT) introduced by China and Russia. Whats Chinas comment?

Wang Wenbin: Safeguarding the security and peace of the outer space and preventing an arms race in outer space is the long-term common aspiration of the international community. The first UN special session devoted to disarmament in 1978 clearly proposed to prevent an arms race in outer space through negotiation. For over four decades since then, the UNGA has adopted relevant resolutions with overwhelming support every year that call for negotiations of new international legal instrument and reflect the concerns of the international community on moves that could turn outer space into a weapon or battlefield.

China, Russia and other countries have submitted to the UNGA the draft resolution on No first placement of weapons in outer space for many years in a row, calling on countries to take effective measures to prevent an arms race in outer space and start negotiations on relevant international legal instrument at an early date. The fact that the resolution was adopted every year with strong support speaks to the international communitys firm support for negotiations on an international legal instrument on arms control in outer space and for not placing weapons in outer space.

Regrettably, certain countries, unwilling to have their military buildup in outer space constrained, have long refused to acknowledge the fundamental approach of negotiating a legal instrument on technical grounds and even questioned the basic consensus of preventing an arms race in outer space. We hope relevant countries will demonstrate political will, correct their wrong practice, support and constructively participate in negotiations for a legal instrument on arms control in outer space, and uphold the international order based on international law.

AFP: Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said that 95 percent of voters in a referendum last week approved of the nations territorial claim on a huge chunk of neighboring Guyana. China is a firm ally for Venezuela and at the same time maintains friendly relations with Guyana. So does China support President Nicolas Maduros claim? Is China worried that Venezuela may invade Guyana?

Wang Wenbin: Venezuela and Guyana are both Chinas good friends. China always respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. China always supports the two countries in properly settling the issue of demarcation of their boundary through friendly consultation. This is in the interests of the people of both countries and conducive to the stability, cooperation and development of Latin America and the Caribbean.

Dragon TV: Recently China and Jordan signed a memorandum of understanding between the two governments on jointly promoting Belt and Road cooperation. This means all Arab countries have signed Belt and Road cooperation documents with China. How does China see China-Arab Belt and Road cooperation?

Wang Wenbin: On November 29, China and Jordan signed a memorandum of understanding between the government of the Peoples Republic of China and the government of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on jointly promoting the construction of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. This means China has signed Belt and Road cooperation documents with all 22 Arab countries and the Arab League, achieving full coverage.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. Over the past decade, China and Arab countries, as natural partners in Belt and Road cooperation, have achieved remarkable progress with concerted efforts. China-Arab trade volume in 2022 exceeded USD 430 billion, doubling the amount a decade ago. China imported 270 million tonnes of crude oil from Arab countries, accounting for half of Chinas total imports of the year. The past decade has seen a surge in two-way investment between China and Arab countries. The two sides have carried out more than 200 major projects under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, and the outcomes of cooperation have benefited nearly two billion people on both sides. The Belt and Road Initiative has become an important international public good and a major platform for international cooperation, providing strong support for building a China-Arab community with a shared future.

Going forward, China looks forward to working with Arab countries to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation on the basis of peaceful cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, mutual learning and mutual benefit so as to build a belt of development, a bridge bringing hearts closer and a road to happiness for the people of both sides.

Bloomberg: Chinas leader will reportedly visit Viet Nam in the coming days. Can you confirm this and what might be on the agenda for that trip?

Wang Wenbin: I have nothing to offer.

The Paper: According to reports, on December 5, an EU official said that President of the European Council Charles Michel does not have a secure phone line in Beijing to talk to EU leaders without China eavesdropping. Do you have any comment on this?

Wang Wenbin: It should have been clear to EU officials that it is not China who has conducted eavesdropping and espionage on leaders of EU countries and institutions.
Former Rajasthan chief minister and BJP leader Vasundhara Raje on Wednesday night left for Delhi amid speculations over BJPs chief ministerial pick for the desert state. Rajes visit to Delhi holds significance amid reports that the BJP may go with a new face for Rajasthan chief ministers post.

The saffron party has won the recently concluded assembly elections in three states  Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. However, even after three days of the victory, the party has not been able to decide who will become the CM in any of the states.

In Rajasthan Vasundhara Raje is seen as the front-runner for the CM post along with Alwar MP Mahant Balaknath Yogi. However, with Balaknath yet to resign as MP and Vasundhara being called to Delhi, speculations are rife in the political circles that she may once again trounce her rivals to get the top job in the desert state.

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#WATCH | Former Rajasthan CM and BJP leader Vasundhara Raje leaves for Delhi from Jaipur airport. pic.twitter.com/SviAdgBiz5  ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2023

Earlier today, 10 of the 12 BJP MPs who won the assembly elections in the three Hindi heartland states resigned from Lok Sabha. Balaknath and Union Minister of State Renuka Singh, who won in Chhattisgarh, are yet to resign.

According to reports, Raje is likely to meet BJP central leadership in Delhi. The development comes a day after more than 50 newly elected BJP MLAs paid a visit to her Civil Lines residence. This was seen as a show of strength by Raje, who has a history of confrontations with the partys high command.

Meanwhile, a fake letter announcing Balaknaths appointment as Chief Minister of Rajasthan is also being circulated on social media. In the letter, Dr Kirodi Lal Meena and Diya Kumari have been named as his two deputies.

However, Balaknath has termed the letter fake He posted the the letter on his Instagram page. Dated December 6, 2023, the fake letter was bearing the signature of Arun Singh, National General Secretary of the BJP.
The Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Yatra urban campaigns are being held at various places in Delhi and other cities to raise awareness through outreach activities and achieve saturation of various welfare programs launched by the Centre. On Wednesday, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting Secretary Apurva Chandra participated in a program organized as part of Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra at Humayupur, Safdarjung Enclave of South Delhi.

He administered the pledge of Viksit Bharat and interacted with beneficiaries of various schemes on the occasion. The Secretary said the yatra aims to provide benefits of central government schemes to people by reaching their doorsteps.

He said over two thousand vans are operating throughout the country as part of the campaign to cover over 2.60 lakh Gram Panchayats and 3,600 urban local bodies by January end.

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As part of this campaign 5 specially designed IEC (Information, Education, Communication) vans are travelling across 11 districts of Delhi eventually covering more than 600 locations.

On-spot services like PM SVANidhi Camp, Health Camp, Ayushman Card camp, Aadhar updation camp, and PM Ujjwala camp are organized at the Vikasit Bharat event sites. A large number of people, especially women are visiting these camps to avail the on-spot services.

The Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Yatra was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 15th on the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas in Khunti, Jharkhand. The urban campaign of Delhi was launched by Lt Governor V K Saxena on 28th November.

As of today, the Vikasit Bharat IEC Vans have visited 85 places across various districts of Delhi spreading awareness about welfare schemes such as PM SVANidhi, Mudra Loans, Stand Up India and Start-Up India, Digital Payments revolution, PM eBus Sewa, Ayushman Bharat, PM Awas (Urban) PM Ujjwala Yojana among others.
In the intricate interplay of international relations, a recent alleged murder-for-hire plot has cast a shadow on the delicate partnership between Washington and New Delhi. The plot, as detailed in a US indictment, is said to involve an Indian government official orchestrating an attempt on the life of a US citizen advocating for Khalistan. However, the response from both nations suggests a cautious approach, emphasising the strategic importance of their alliance over the gravity of the allegations.

At first glance, one might expect such a revelation to fracture the budding US-India partnership. Yet, the geopolitical chessboard appears to have reshaped the narrative, with both nations keenly aware of the strategic chess moves necessary to counterbalance a rising China. The USA, aiming to foster stronger ties with India, is seemingly willing to compartmentalise this alleged plot, viewing it as a standalone incident that should not unravel the broader relationship.

The Biden administrations response has been a careful balancing act, acknowledging the seriousness of the matter while expressing an expectation for India to address and prevent such activities. This measured stance reflects a pragmatic understanding that the long-term strategic interests of both nations outweigh the immediate turbulence caused by the alleged plot. It is a testament to the nuanced dynamics of modern diplomacy, where shared concerns often eclipse isolated disputes. Comparisons with a similar case in Canada highlight the unique nature of the US-India relationship. In Canada, allegations linking Indian agents to a murder prompted a heated diplomatic row, resulting in expulsions of diplomats and threats to trade talks. In contrast, Indias response to the US indictment has been conciliatory, emphasising a commitment to investigating the matter seriously.

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The difference in reactions underscores the depth of the US-India strategic partnership, which appears resilient even in the face of a serious allegation. The June state visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the White House marked a symbolic step in strengthening ties. The alleged plot, unfolding concurrently with this diplomatic engagement, showcases the Biden administrations willingness to engage with India. The shared goal of countering Chinas influence in Asia reinforces the practical aspects of international relations.

As foreign policy experts weigh in, the consensus emerges that the US administration is prioritising the broader strategic relationship with India. The delicate handling of the situation, even in the face of unsettling allegations, signals a commitment to avoiding a rift that could undermine shared objectives. While this alleged plot may add a layer of complexity to US-India ties, it also underscores the intricate nature of navigating global alliances.

The resilience of this partnership will likely hinge on a careful calibration of interests, with both nations recognising that the pursuit of shared goals necessitates weathering occasional storms. As geopolits evolve, the US-India relationship, tested by this alleged plot, may yet emerge stronger, demonstrating the pragmatism essential in navigating the complex
As a large part of the civilian citizenry gets introduced to and mesmerized by Sam Bahadur i.e., Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw, MC, via a war drama movie of the same name, the timing of the Bollywood film ~ to remind viewers of the essential unity and necessity of the sustaining values of the larger Idea of India ~ couldnt have been more apt.

Beyond the movie, the essential import of the phenomenon of Sam Bahadur is so much more than just that of the hero of the 1971 Indo-Pak War, the dashing leader, colourful personality or even of the symbolism of Indias first Field Marshal. It is a story of one of the priceless gifts of destiny afforded to those who don the Indian uniform and for whom the uniform and its accompanying duty, integrity and above all, the sacred covenant of constitutionality, was its own reward. A Parsi born and brought up in Amritsar, Punjab, joins the distinguished Gorkha Regiment and peaks his illustrious career with the war that created Bangladesh in the East, and was ultimately laid to rest in Ooty, Tamil Nadu.

This is quintessentially a story of wonderful possibilities that could only take place in a diverse, secular, and inclusive India, as it was always envisaged to be by its founding fathers. Manekshaws was a generation which understood India as an inviolable trust, one that had hard-won independence and dreams, therefore needed to be defended with a unique admixture of faith, ferocity, and constitutionality.

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They, perhaps more than any other generation, grasped that the true purpose and meaning in bearing the nations uniform was rooted in insisting in its better civilisational tenets, stretching back centuries, carefully chosen to be internalized as the lodestar for the way forward. They cherry-picked the finer insistences from an admittedly complicated past, to defend the future from its worst self. The reason that Sam Bahadur is simply revered as a leader is because he was the real thing, not a false claimant, empty posturer or one who sought to succeed by diminishing any other human, not even a enemy. After all, Manekshaw had demonstrated raw courage in actual battle and was a Military Cross awardee for gallantry, after having taken seven bullets onto himself. Manekshaw, the leader-to-be, got to know what it takes to fight the real fight, endure real pain, and yet triumph with the greatness of spirit, heart, and honour.

All these qualities reflected an intangible human definition that was frankly unrequired, and had no defined code, but only reflected an inner human compulsion that delighted in the welfare of his troops, prided in their differences, and shunned the concept of othering, especially amongst its own citizens. Manekshaw the leader was also an engaged warrior who fought for his causes with professional brilliance, humility, and an instinctive sense of moral-civilisational-constitutional duty.

Beyond the Bollywoodesque swagger of a battle-rattle persona and delightfully politically incorrect statements, was a sharp mind, a man who always insisted, Professional knowledge and professional competence are the main attributes of leadership. The Indian Armed Forces owes its avowed constitutionality, thoroughness beyond rhetoric, and the abiding spirit of Indianness, only because the likes of Sam Bahadur wore its uniform, and not some pretenders or usurpers. Another vital attribute of military leadership that Sam Bahadur exemplified was how he was not politically ignorant or even apolitical in its naive sense, but still unpartisan to the hilt, as it should be ~ a very vital difference.

Like all educated professionals (military or otherwise), he held a dim view of politicians as a class and therefore while there are countless anecdotes of his acerbic observations on them, he disallowed alternative partisanship, institutional endorsements, and electoral influences, to any side. In conduct, he stuck to the bedrock principles of the singular oath to the Indian Constitution that each combatant swears to defend, amongst which is the key commitment of civilian control over the military, as he was no anarchist.

He spoke his professional mind and agenda fearlessly but within the contours of his militaristic agenda, whilst considering a host of diverse factors that any leader ought to imagine. He engaged with the political leadership and his troops as a powerful bridge that needed to understand each others realm and respect the independence of each, without surrender, compromise, or partisan taint. But he didnt indulge in one-upmanship when he could have. Importantly, Manekshaw did not weigh in or leverage any personal favour with subsequent dispensations of different ideological persuasions, with whom he could have curried favour from a competitive partisan lens.

The honour of wearing the uniform was unsurpassable and more than sufficient. For veterans and superheroes like Manekshaw, any allusion to his brilliant military service was not tradeable in the market of electoral and partisan pitches. Even in his finest hour of taking the surrender of Pakistani forces in Dhaka, the magnanimous and alpha-leader general declined the limelight by insisting that the GOC-in-C Eastern Command was befitting of that honour. He handled success with immense grace, humility and dignity that was afforded on the enemy and disallowed chestthumping brouhaha or vainglorious optics. His patent sense of humour was usually self-deprecatory, unbitter and ended up easing tense situations ~ there was simply no space for manufacturedoutrage, small-spirited malice or even pretenses of any holierthan-thou nativity. He spoke Gujarati (from his Dharam Bhoomi), Punjabi (from his Janam Bhoomi), Pashto (from his Karam Bhoomi) and the clipped Queens English, all with matching aplomb, charm and unapologetic flair ~ he was no pretender to something he genuinely wasnt.

Manekshaw was a leader not because of the five-star heaviness of his epaulettes, but because of his undying concern for the last Indian soldier standing on the loneliest outpost on the border, unseen, unheard but very readily appropriated by those who would never come remotely close to the sacrifices that men and women in the uniform offer. If anything, the movie has inadvertently bestowed a moment of unity and renewed faith in the possibilities of the Idea of India, if only it is allowed to flourish.

The Indian Armed Forces and the nation are indeed smaller for Sam Bahadurs departure, but yet his moral but inaudible voice in the deep recesses of the conscience of the institution will always guide it to stand tall as fearless constitutionalists, patriots and dignified humans.

(The writer is Lt Gen PVSM, AVSM (Retd), and former Lt Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Puducherry)
A UN spokesman has refuted the US claim that civilians in Gaza should seek refuge in UN-designated safe places.

In response to US State Department spokesman Matthew Millers suggestion that Gazans should seek refuge in UN-designated sites that are listed by Israel as deconfliction zones, Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said on Tuesday there are no such things in Gaza, Xinhua news agency reported.

Well, lets be clear. There are no UN-designated safe zones in Gaza. I think all my senior colleagues have been very clear, including the secretary-general, saying there are no safe places in Gaza, said Dujarric.

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There are shelters that fly the UN flag that are sheltering thousands and thousands and thousands of people  men, women, and children who are trying to stay alive and get some food, get some water. We have seen, since the beginning of this conflict, that those places that fly the UN flag are not safe either, he said.

Asked where people in Gaza should go when they are ordered to evacuate, Miller said, People should go to the UN-designated sites where  that are on Israeli lists as deconfliction zones that should not be the target of military campaigns.

There are already people who are sheltering in those. As the (Israeli military) campaign moves to the south (of Gaza) and Israel evacuates specific neighbourhoods or orders specific neighbourhoods to be evacuated, that is where people should go, he said.
Saint-Laurent, CA (H4T1V6)

Today

Cloudy with periods of light snow late. High 23F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 80%. Snow accumulations less than one inch..

Tonight

Light snow this evening giving way to partly cloudy conditions late. Low 13F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 70%.
Egypt's National Elections Authority (NEA) announced Monday the conclusion of the voting process for Egyptians abroad in the 2024 presidential elections, which took place from 1-3 December at the headquarters of Egyptian diplomatic missions.

According to NEA, the vote-counting process has been concluded as well, including the total number of those who cast their votes, the number of valid and invalid votes, and the number of valid votes for each candidate.

These numbers have been sent to the NEA through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and will be announced later.

Voting abroad was held in 137 embassies and consulates across 121 countries around the world.

Egypt's Minister of Emigration and Expatriates Affairs Soha Gendy extended her deep thanks to the NEA, the foreign ministry, Egyptian ambassadors and consuls abroad, and Egyptian communities around the world, for their participation in the 2024 presidential elections.

The candidates running for the presidency include incumbent President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, who is running for a third term in office and whose electoral symbol is a star; Farid Zahran, the leftist opposition Social Democratic Party candidate with the sun as his electoral symbol.

Other contenders are Abdel-Sanad Yamama, representing the Wafd party with the palm tree as his electoral symbol, and Hazem Omar, the candidate from the People's Republican Party using the ladder as his symbol.

Voting within Egypt is scheduled to occur from 10-12 December. The final election results are slated for announcement on 18 December, provided no run-off is necessary.

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The United States said Wednesday that Sudan's rival forces have both committed war crimes in their brutal conflict, accusing the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces of ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the State Department findings on the violence, which has included renewed attacks in Darfur two decades after a campaign there that was at the time branded by the United States as genocide.

Both the Sudanese army and the RSF "have unleashed horrific violence, death and destruction across Sudan," Blinken said in a statement.

"Civilians have borne the brunt of this needless conflict," he said.

The two sides "must stop this conflict now, comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law, and hold accountable those responsible for atrocities," Blinken said.

Brutal warfare including in the capital Khartoum erupted in April between the army, led by Sudan's de-facto leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary RSF, commanded by Burhan's former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo.

The violence came after the failure to integrate the RSF into the army, in line with a roadmap to civilian rule in a country that had been seeking to turn the page on decades of autocratic rule.

More than 10,000 people have been killed, according to a conservative estimate from the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project, a monitor, with the United Nations saying 6.3 million more have been forced to flee their homes.

Blinken said the RSF and allied militias "have terrorized women and girls through sexual violence, attacking them in their homes, kidnapping them from the streets, or targeting those trying to flee to safety across the border."

"In haunting echoes of the genocide that began almost 20 years ago in Darfur, we have seen an explosion of targeted violence against some of the same survivors' communities," Blinken said.

The United States and Saudi Arabia have led negotiations aimed at ending the fighting, with the State Department initially hesitant to take actions that could alienate one side and break down communication.

But the two sides made no tangible progress when they met again a little over a month ago in the Saudi port city of Jeddah.

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Bringing out regular sustainability reports by real estate players in India may become a norm in the future. A few developers in the real estate segment are doing it now and in the near future coming out with ESG report may become a norm especially among the listed players in the segment. It is just not profit and loss any more for real estate players but one has to show responsibility towards their environment. These observations were made by Mallanna Sasalu, Chief Operating Officer of Provident Housing Limited (PHL) during a press briefing. Sasalu released the second sustainability report of PHL that covers a period of two years from April 1 2021 to March 31, 2023.

It is just not the air or the water but it is how we treat the earth and how we treat our employees etc. I believe it will become a norm and it should become a norm to bring out regular sustainability reports. We do not have any regulatory requirement to file a sustainability report every year but we are doing it on a voluntary basis. We understand that regulations will become very much stringent in the years to come and if one starts then it would be very difficult to bring out reports and adhere to norms all of a sudden. We have been doing this for the second time in a row and every year it will come out. We will be better placed because we have already taken action towards being sustainable, said Sasalu.

He said when real estate players will see their competitors doing it, then they will also come forward to bring out their sustainability reports regularly. In the future I foresee that real estate players in India will also be regulated by the government to come out with regular ESG reports. It is just not the air or the water but it is how we treat the earth and how we treat our employees etc. I believe it will become a norm and it should become a norm to bring out regular sustainability reports, remarked Sasalu.

PHL, a real estate major headquartered in Bangalore, has prepared its sustainability report in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards. In line with GRI requirements, the report presents economic, social, environmental and governance impacts and contributions of their company. In this report, we have disclosed our performance against the most important material aspects for our stakeholders. We identified these material matters during previous years stakeholder engagement and validated during the writing of this report based on the changes in the new disclosure standard. The reporting concepts of stakeholder inclusivity, sustainable context, materiality, and completeness inspired the content of this report. At the same time, the criteria of accuracy, balance, clarity, comparability, reliability, and timeliness define the report quality. The reporting principles guided the materiality approach and the preparation of this report, said Sasalu.

As per the International Energy Agency (IEA, 2022), buildings and other construction industry accounts for nearly 40 per cent of all global emissions. The structures we create today will generate emissions throughout their life cycle. If we build using sustainable practices following building codes for energy optimization and design in a way that energy consumption for each household goes down, water management is optimized for urban living, and waste can be managed etc., these buildings will work towards decarbonizing the planet. We recognize that we have a massive role in contributing towards organizations and countrys decarbonization goals, pointed out Sasalu.
One in five urban Indians have claimed that they have suffered financial loss due to a scam and about 47 per cent said one of their friends or family members have bvictims of a financial fraud, according to a survey held last month.



Only 28 per cent haven't lost any money and 10 per cent are unsure of their view, according to data released by YouGov. The online survey, with a sample size of 1,022 respondents, was held between November 6 and 13 and targeted Indians aged above 18.

About 30 per cent urban Indians claim they receive scam texts, calls or messages every day while 24 per cent respondents said they get such spams once in a week. Another 12 per cent said they get them on a monthly basis while others said they are spammed every few months (14 per cent) or longer (7 per cent).

The survey revealed that online shopping or classified scams (27 per cent) and job scams (26 per cent) are the most prevalent types of frauds in the country. About 21 per cent of respondents said they were victims of bank related and card phishing scams, followed by investment scams (19 per cent) amd lottery scams (18 per cent).

Another 17 per cent said they were victims of social media phishing scams and loan scams. Others pointed out they were targets by charity scams (12 per cent), government phishing scams (12 per cent) and dating scams (11 per cent).

A survey also showed that different scams targeted different generations. For example, 33 per cent millenials fell victims to online shopping scams while 31 per cent Gen Z were targeted by job frauds.

About 29 per cent urban Indians claimed they have never been a victim of scams. However, a closer look at different generations reveals an interesting trend. Among Baby Boomers, 49 per cent said they never got scammed compared to 25 per cent millennials.

Only 30 per cent victims claimed they have reported the scams to authorities while about 59 per cent did not report it. Among those who reported the crime, 48 per cent said they got their money back while 46 per cent did not.

About 26 per cent respondents said the government should be responsible for bearing scam losses while 23 per cent believed the consumer should bear the responsibility. Another 22 per cent said the banks should be held accountable and reimburse the money to customers while 4 per cent said telecommunication firms are responsible.

About 65 per cent respondents said protect themselves from scams by not revealing their personal or financial information to anyone. About 59 per cent said they ignore or block unknown emails and phone numbers while 57 per cent said they avoid downloading software and apps from unofficials sources. Another 55 per cent said they verify suspicious numbers and emails.
Artificial hands can now be controlled through an app or by using sensors placed in the muscles of the forearm, according to research conducted at the Technical University of Munich (TUM). A breakthrough in understanding muscle activity patterns in the forearm has led to a more natural and intuitive control of artificial limbs. This innovative approach involves a network of 128 sensors and utilizes artificial intelligence techniques.

Over the years, technological advancements have resulted in the development of advanced artificial hands that offer greater functionality. These prostheses allow amputees to regain some movements, such as independent finger movements and wrist rotation. Control of these movements can be achieved through a smartphone app or by using muscle signals from the forearm, detected by two sensors.

For example, when the wrist flexor muscles are activated, the fingers close together to grip an object like a pen. Conversely, contracting the wrist extensor muscles causes the fingers to open, releasing the object. By simultaneously activating both flexor and extensor muscle groups, different finger movements can be controlled.

However, patients typically need to learn these movements as part of their rehabilitation process. To make controlling advanced hand prostheses more intuitive, Professor Cristina Piazza and her research team at TUM have employed artificial intelligence and the "synergy principle" with the help of 128 forearm sensors.

The synergy principle is based on the observation that the brain activates a pool of muscle cells, even in the forearm, when performing repetitive movements. When humans use their hands to grasp an object, such as a ball, their fingers move in a synchronized manner and adapt to the shape of the object upon contact. By leveraging this principle, the researchers have developed new learning algorithms to design and control artificial hands.

To achieve fluid and seamless movements, multiple steps are involved in controlling an artificial hand to grasp an object, such as a pen. The patient first orients the artificial hand to the grasping location, then slowly moves the fingers together before finally grabbing the pen. Through machine learning, the team aims to enhance control adaptability and improve the learning process, taking into account variations among individuals.

Experiments with the new approach, utilizing a greater number of sensors, have shown promising results, suggesting that conventional control methods can be enhanced with more advanced strategies. By using up to 64 sensors on the inside and outside of the forearm, the researchers can capture information from different muscle groups and determine which muscle activations are responsible for specific hand movements. This understanding is crucial for achieving intuitive movements.

The research primarily focuses on wrist and hand movements, and it has been observed that eight out of ten people prefer the intuitive way of moving the wrist and hand. This method is also more efficient. However, two out of ten individuals learn to handle the less intuitive way and ultimately become even more precise.

Dr. Patricia Capsi Morales, a senior scientist in Professor Piazza's team, explains that the research aims to investigate the learning effect and find the most suitable solution for each patient. Professor Piazza emphasizes that the control of artificial hands encompasses individual mechanics and hand properties, patient training, interpretation, analysis, and machine learning, making it a multi-faceted challenge.
The Arab group at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is currently working on a draft resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in the war-torn Gaza Strip, representatives of the group stated in a press briefing at the UN on Wednesday.

"The Arab group is once again knocking on the doors of the Security Council, developing a resolution to cease fire immediately, the Permanent Representative of Egypt to the United Nations, Osama Abdel-Khalek, said.

Abdel-Khalek called on the UNSC to assume its responsibilities.

The Arab group held conversations over the past few days with members of the Security Council, where they demanded a mechanism for enhanced humanitarian aid to Gaza, and the full opening of crossings, Abdel-Khalek noted.

The group also called for an increase in the rate of humanitarian aid flow to Gaza from the UN, he added.

The Arab representatives will meet with the chairman of the UNSC to advocate for the ceasefire and the continuous flow of life-saving humanitarian aid to the strip, he pointed out.

Meanwhile, Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian UN ambassador, said Wednesday that its essential that the UNs most powerful body demand a halt to the conflict following the resumption of bloodshed in Gaza after the end of a weeklong humanitarian truce on 1 December.

Surrounded by members of the 22-nation Arab Group, Mansour also told reporters that a ministerial delegation from Arab nations and the 57-member Organization of Islamic Cooperation headed by Saudi Arabias foreign minister will be in Washington on Thursday to meet with US officials.

On top of the agenda is this war has to stop, he said. A cease-fire has to take place and it has to take place immediately.

Mansour said the national security adviser to US Vice President Kamala Harris contacted Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas Wednesday morning and that Abbas pressed for an immediate cease-fire and more humanitarian aid.

The United States, Israels closest ally, has veto power in the Security Council and has not supported a ceasefire.

Also Wednesday, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres wrote a letter to the UNSC invoking Article 99 of the UN's charter, which states that "the Secretary-General may bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security."

Meanwhile, more than 1.8 million Palestinians - out of a population of 2.4 million - have been rendered homeless as Israeli bombardment destroyed more than 50 percent of homes in the strip.

A near-total Israeli blockade on food, water, and fuel has the entire civilian population on the verge of hunger amid a growing catastrophic situation not seen anywhere in the world in decades.

Since 7 October, the Israeli offensive on the Palestinian territory has killed 16,248 Palestinians -- including 7,000 children and more than 4,000 women -- and wounded 42,000 others, according to the health ministry in Gaza.

A week-long truce deal between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the US, which allowed for the entry of some humanitarian aid through the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza, collapsed on Friday after the Israeli side resumed its bombardments on the Gaza Strip.

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Kafeel Khan, the doctor who has long been painted as a villain in the Gorakhpur oxygen tragedy, is in the process of approaching the High Court to quash an FIR filed against him.

Filed on December 1, by one Manish Shukla, a resident of Lucknow, the report against Khan and five unknown persons is under serious sections including 153-B, 143, 465, 467 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860. It also lists Sections 3 and 12 of the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867.

Of the IPC Sections mentioned above, the first deals with punishment for promoting disharmony, the second with unlawful assembly, the third with forgery, and the fourth with forgery of documents. As the last (and other Sections of the FIR) carries a punishment extending upto 10 years, an appeal to quash the FIR can only be made to the High Court.

My lawyer is in the process of collecting all papers since 2017, said Khan.

In September 2017, the Baba Raghav Das Medical College, Gorakhpur, had run out of oxygen supply and 63 children, had died. Most were suffering from Japanese encephalitis, a disease spread through the bite of an infected culex mosquito. It is a disease common in eastern UP and Bihar.

Since the deaths, Khan, who had gone beyond the call of duty to save the children, has had six FIRs filed against him. While all the other accused were released and reinstated, he has been terminated from his job.

His objection to the termination of February 2022, has had the court ask the state government for an explanation. That explanation, supposed to be submitted within six weeks, is still to come in. The next date for that case will fall in the second week of January.

The FIR, a copy of which was made available to Khan only on Tuesday says the complainant had, on December 1, overheard some people use malicious words against certain ministers and officers; and that they were also talking about uprooting the government. It further says Khan had secretly published a book and was surreptitiously distributing it to collect money for his nefarious plans. Shukla has also alleged that the people, whose faces he could not see because it was dark, were talking about ensuring that the book was widely distributed before the general elections of 2024 so that the incumbent government could be uprooted and that it did not matter if there were riots because of the book.

The book in question is The Gorakhpur Hospital Tragedy: A Doctors Memoir of a Deadly Medical Crisis. On Amazon, it has been available since December 2021. Many, including this writer, have reviewed it.

But why a fresh FIR against Khan now? The recently released Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Jawan has an episode on the Gorakhpur tragedy- without mentioning any names. In one scene, a doctor can be seen frantically telling parents how to use ambu bags to provide respiratory support to their children. It was an act Khan had performed the night the oxygen ran out.

Ever since the movie hit the screens, there has been a swirl of rumours that Khan had been paid crores for it. It is a charge he denies. I was not contacted before, during or after filming, he said.

With Jawans massive success, the story of the medical negligence, which may have been forgotten, has been brought back to memory.

In his own book, nowhere does Khan talk about overthrowing any government. It is a recap of the tragic events and the months that he then spent in jail.

Since September 2020, when Khan was released from Mathura jail he has not even stayed in his hometown of Gorakhpur, preferring instead to shift base to Rajasthan.

While this fresh FIR has him worried, he is more concerned about the impact it has on his family. My daughter is now seven and can access the internet. How do I explain things to her? My 75-year-old mother always has unshed tears in her eyes when I video call her, he said.

Incidentally, on September 29, after Jawans release, Khan had written to Shah Rukh Khan to convey his appreciation of the film and also a desire to meet the film star and director Atlee Kumar.

In his letter, Khan said, While I understand that Jawan is a work of fiction, the parallels it draws to the tragedy serve as a powerful reminder of the systemic failures, apathy, and most importantly the innocent lives lost. It underscores the urgent need for accountability within our health system.

It also draws attention to the fact that while in the film, the guilty are caught, in real life, they roam free while Khan has been the scapegoat and there is no justice for the 63 parents who lost their children.

While the films makers and actors enjoy greater clout to not be dragged into a FIR which is frivolous at best, Khan once again finds himself in the midst of trouble. He said he had a genuine fear of being jailed yet again.
Even as the wait is on for the new BJP chief ministerial name in Madhya Pradesh, incumbent CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan visited Chhindwara district on Wednesday and announced the launch of Mission 29 for Lok Sabha polls.

He said that work would start from Wednesday to ensure that the BJP wins all 29 Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh. In 2019, the saffron party had won all the seats except Chhindwara  the home borough of state Congress president Kamal Nath. Naths son Nakul is the current member of parliament of Chhindwara.

In the recent assembly polls, despite winning a landslide in the state, BJP lost all seven assembly segments in Chhindwara.

Addressing a Ladli Behna and workers convention in Chhindwara city, Chouhan said that he was pledging a guarantee to undertake complete development of the constituency. This was the first visit of CM Chouhan to any city in the state after the massive BJP win.

Even as the other CM contenders  most of them members of parliament (five resigned this afternoon) were in New Delhi where the parliament session is on, Chouhan, among the frontrunners of the CM post again, is engaging in interactive sessions with people. On Tuesday, he met Ladli Behna beneficiaries in Bhopal and had food with them and visited a night shelter in the capital later in the night.

In Chhindwara, too, he credited the win to the development in states, schemes of central and state governments and dedicated it to the Ladli Behnas (the beneficiaries of the scheme by the same name).

Chouhan announced that after Ladli Behna, the next mission is Lakhpati Behna, under which a minimum annual income of Rs 1 lakh will be ensured for poor and lower middle class women through self-help groups. He added that he would personally monitor such schemes to ensure their success.

I will make this happen, I wont rest unless this happens, he announced. He also reiterated the promise of one income source for each family. This indicated that Chouhan was quite confident of holding on to the reins in the state.

Takes a dig on Kamal Nath

Taking a dig at Kamal Nath without naming him, Chouhan said that dada ji (grandfather) did not move out of Chhindwara at all. Mama (maternal uncle - as Chouhan is popularly called) was moving all around but dada was struck here. He was here morning and evening. Whenever anyone asked where he was  the answer was he was here (in Chhindwara). You tied him up here, so BJP won one-way in Madhya Pradesh.

Chouhan added that he never visited Budhni (Chouhans constituency) during the polls. The people there told me that they would make him win by over a lakh votes and asked me to form a government again in the state, he said.

I kept that promise and put 163 seats in the kitty of BJP.

Has food at tribal workers home

Later, Chouhan also had food at the home of Mohan Marskole, a tribal worker of the party, who was also a polling booth president where the BJP won a lead. The gesture of Chouhan is seen as an attempt to energize the party workers for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.
Anyone active on social media would not have missed the visuals from Pallikaranai in Chennaihigh-end cars parked inside a posh apartment complex being washed off in Chennai floods caused by cyclone Michaung. Three days later, the 3,000 families living in the apartment complex are in complete distress. There was no help from anyone despite several calls. We were safe till the wall behind our apartment was washed away in the flood. We recorded a video and called the government authorities for help. But no one helps us, said Prakash, one of the residents in the apartment complex.

Years ago, when he moved to his brand new, posh apartment constructed by the leading real estate firm Puravankara in Pallikaranai, Prakash would not have thought in the wildest of his dreams that a natural disaster would push his family into extreme distress. It has been a nightmare for the past three days for Prakash and his family. Employed in one of the MNCs in Chennai as its top management staff, Prakash had been struggling to get back to normal life after cyclone Michaung brought incessant rains to Chennai and its suburbs. This morning we all came out together to ensure that the water is drained. We walked out, wading through the water to buy the essentials for our people. The government was of no help despite several calls, Prakash told The Week.

The Puravankara apartment in Pallikaranai is just one of the several localities where people in distress have been calling for help. Cars submerged in water, people walking with their bags in knee and waist-deep water on the main roads in the city suburbs, and people being rescued in boats have become common sight in Chennai. The supply of essentials, food, water, and milk has been hugely affected across the city. From the most active IT corridor to suburban areas like Velachery, Pallikaranai, Perungudi, Tambaram, and Medavakkam in South Chennai and areas like Vyasarpadi in North Chennai most parts of the city are still submerged.

Industrial estates under water

While the authorities and the state machinery are prioritising rescuing the people in the suburbs and other parts of Chennai, the capital citys industrial estates are in deep distress. Michaung has dealt a severe blow to the factory operations of MSMEs in and around Chennai. The industrial estates at Ambattur, Thirumudivakkam, Perungudi, Thirumazhisai and Kakkalur are still submerged in four to six feet of water. While in some of the estates, stagnant water has been pumped out, the roads leading to the estates and the surrounding areas are still under water. Of all the estates, Thirumazhisai is the most affected. There are at least 900 units in and around the Thirumazhisai industrial estate. The Ambattur Industrial estate, one of the oldest in Chennai, is estimated to have lost around Rs 2,000 crore due to the cyclone and flooding. Though water has receded at Kakkalur estate, it hasnt got back to work as power is yet to be restored. Perungudi industrial estate is still under water, while Guindy is slowly limping back to normalcy. It seems we havent learnt any lessons from 2015, said K.E. Raghunathan, national president, Association of Indian Entrepreneurs. The small industry owners estimate that the loss could be close to Rs.2500 crore.

Incidentally, Tamil Nadu will be hosting its Global Investors Meet in January 2024, which is just a month away. With a natural calamity taking away the might of Chennais industrial estates, it remains to be seen how the government will be able to convince the international investors looking to set shop in Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu.

On the other side, the entire IT corridor has also been flooded with most of the IT and ITES companies finding it difficult to connect to the network for the past two days. There is no connectivity. How can we work from home, asked an IT employee who is working in one of the leading software firms in Chennai.

How do you expect me to work when there is four feet water in my house asked Aparna Ramalingam. Living in an interior locality in Velachery, Aparna had to wade through hip-deep water with her three-year-old daughter to reach the main road. I am not sure if I will be able to continue with my job immediately. It will take at least a month for me to get back to normal life, Aparna told The Week.

CM Stalin writes to Modi

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin sought Rs 5,060 crore to rebuild the damaged infrastructure and for relief work. According to an official release, Stalin requested the Union government to dispatch a central team to assess the damages caused by cyclone Michaung. The official release also added that a survey is underway to assess the total damage and a detailed report will be prepared soon. Listing out the damages caused by unprecedented rains in the northern districts of Chennai, Chengalpet, Tiruvallur and Kancheepuram, Stalin pointed out that the damage is severe in areas under the Corporation of Chennai. Infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and public buildings have suffered severe damage.
Former BJP MLA from Karnataka Goolihatti Shekar has made a serious allegation of caste discrimination against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Nagpur.

Goolihatti, a two-time MLA from Hosadurg (general category constituency) in Chitradurga district, served as a minister in the Yediyurappa government in 2008. He won the 2018 assembly polls on a BJP ticket, but contested (and lost) as an independent in the 2023 assembly polls after the BJP denied him the ticket.

On Tuesday, Goolihatti alleged that he had been barred entry into a museum at RSS headquarters in Nagpur owing to his caste.

In an audio recording purportedly sent to BJP national secretary (organisation) B.L. Santosh by Goolihatti, the former legislator is heard narrating his "ordeal" at Nagpur.

"I had been to RSS office in Nagpur before the Karnataka elections were declared, along with one Vaidya and Manju. I was both happy and proud as I take pride in Hindutva and despite being an SC (Dalit), I am a devout Hindu who believes in god. But I was greatly pained when I was denied entry into the Hedgewar Museum as I am a Dalit. At the entrance, they were noting down the names of all the visitors. When I wrote my name, they asked me if I belonged to the reserved category. As I told them I was a Dalit, they told me I was not allowed inside. I agreed to stay outside while the other two who were with me Mohan Vaidya, grandson of one of the RSS founders and Manju from Bengaluru, were allowed inside," said Goolihatti in the recording.

Further, Goolihatti reminded Santhosh that BJP MP Narayanaswamy from Chitradurga was also a Dalit and wondered aloud if Narayanaswamy and former deputy chief minister Govind Karjol, also a Dalit, had been allowed inside the Hedgewar house in Nagpur.

Even as the audio recording went viral, RSS Karnataka issued a statement saying the allegations made by the former MLA were "baseless and without merit".

"Shri Goolihatti Shekhar, former MLA of Hosadurg, in an audio release, has alleged that he was denied entry into Dr Hedegawars memorial in Nagpur due to his caste. But there is no system of registering the names of visitors before allowing them into the Sangh Karyalaya in Nagpur. Hence, this allegation is baseless and without merit. Everyone has unrestricted access to any premises of the RSS, or the memorials. Every day, thousands of people from all castes and classes visit the RSS office and there was never any instance of anyone being denied entry.

The RSS also expressed surprise over Goolihatti's long silence after the alleged incident saying, "Shri. Goolihatti Shekhar claims the incident took place four months before the state assembly elections. He has met many leaders of the Sangh since then but it is surprising that he never raised this issue of alleged humiliation anywhere, but is making the allegations ten months later".

"The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh always welcomes everyone with an open mind," said the statement issued by RSS Dakshin Madhya Kshetreeya Karyavah Sri N. Tippeswamy, Bengaluru.
Following an uproar in the Parliament over his controversial remarks on BJP-ruled northern states, DMK MP DNV Senthil Kumar apologised to the Parliament on Wednesday morning.

"The statement made by me yesterday inadvertently, if it had hurt the sentiments of the Members and sections of the people, I would like to withdraw it. I request the words to be expunged...I regret it," he told the Speaker.



His apology came after BJP MPs created a ruckus in the House seeking an apology from DMK leader T R Baalu.



#WATCH | Winter Session of Parliament | DMK MP DNV Senthilkumar S expresses regret over his 'Gaumutra' remark and withdraws it.



"The statement made by me yesterday inadvertently, if it had hurt the sentiments of the Members and sections of the people, I would like to withdraw pic.twitter.com/S0cjyfb7HU  ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2023

Shouts of "Maafi Mango" (apologise) from BJP MPs reverberated the house even before the Speaker started the proceeding for the day in the Lok Sabha.



Union ministers Piyush Goyal and Pralhad Joshi raised the issue when Speaker Om Birla called Baalu to put a question to the government during Question Hour. Both Goyal and Joshi demanded Baalu apologise for Senthil.



"Baalu ji should apologise first for the kind of remarks made by the DMK member. How can the House run like this? How can any member make any remarks and walk away," Goyal, the Union minister of Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution, said.



"What is your problem? You should not behave like this, Baalu said, referring to the ministers.



However, other BJP members too rose and asked Baalu to apologise. "They are trying to divide the country. Rahul Gandhi, when he lost from Amethi, also made a statement on north-south divide," Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said, referring to the opposition benches.



Following this, the Sabha was adjourned.



The DMK MP had apologised for his comments in the Lower House on X, saying that he was not using the term with any "intent". "Commenting on the results of the five recent state assembly elections, I have used a word in an inappropriate way. Not using that term with any intent, I apologise for sending the wrong meaning across," he said.



However, the BJP has raised the issue with Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal saying Senthil Kumar refused to apologise on Tuesday. "He didn't apologise for the remark made in the House. All INDIA bloc parties stood with him. Are these parties trying to divide the country? No one can divide this country. Some members of INDIA who are trying to divide the country into north and south will be unsuccessful in their conspiracy," Meghwal added.


Intelligence agencies are keeping a hawk's eye on the ceremonies being planned in Punjab for pro-Khalistani declared terrorist Lakhbir Singh Rode who died in Pakistan on Monday night. Rode's family and supporters plan to have a prayer ceremony in Amritsar on December 14 followed by a gathering in his memory in Rode village on December 16.

Both carry huge significance. The former can have religious overtones while the latter holds strong significance among radicals as Rode village is the birthplace of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Lakhbir Rode is the nephew of Bhindranwale.

The intelligence agencies are expecting a turn out of around 250-300 people at these gatherings which can be a breeding ground for extremist sentiments. Security forces will keep a close watch to prevent any law and order problems or extremist outpourings that can fuel unrest in the state.

Sources told THE WEEK that Rode got an elaborate farewell in Pakistan where his last rites were held and attended by the proscribed members of International Sikh Youth Federation and Khalistan Liberation Force as well as ISI operatives who allowed Rode a free run all these years.

Rode's son, Bhagat Singh Brar, could not fly in from Canada to Pakistan for the cremation, but sources said he is tipped to take over the ISYF after his father's demise. Bhagat Singh was on the radar of intelligence agencies and put on the no-fly list once. However, his activities largely remained outside the country, especially in Canada where a significant number of pro-Khalistani operatives have been taking shelter. Many of them have been using fake passports and identities to travel around the globe, from Pakistan to Germany, evading the Indian law enforcement agencies.

Given the tight watch on Canada-based pro-Khalistani operatives who have been trying to fuel tensions in Punjab, some of Rodes family members won't be able to visit Punjab, sources said. His cousin Jaswant Rode, who is in Dubai and has been found to have lent support to arrested pro-Khalistani operative Amritpal Singh during his stay in Dubai, is also unlikely to set foot in India.

At the same time, the trend of wanted terror accused like Rode having ceremonies within the state is a matter of concern for security agencies. Similar funerals being held in Kashmir for wanted militants had become fertile recruitment grounds for terrorists.

Extremism in Punjab may be of a different kind. But the concerns around radicalisation are largely devoid of the nature of the land, its allegiance or history. Security officials said with similar activities being planned in the hinterland, the outcomes can be disturbing especially when there is a push from pro-Khalistan lobbies outside the country to recruit foot soldiers and disturb the peace in Punjab. The state had already seen bouts of violence and extremism early this year.

Rode's supporters will be watched by many, including Pakistan-based handlers who concluded his last rites.
The four bills set for passage by the BJP in the ongoing winter session of Parliament concerning Jammu and Kashmir are strategically aligned with the party's electoral objectives in the Union Territory.

Before the imposition of Central rule in June 2018, Jammu and Kashmir's quota laws already favoured Jammu over Kashmir.

Changes introduced by the Centre-appointed lieutenant governor headed Jammu and Kashmir administrations in the last four-and-a-half years have further skewed these laws in favour of Jammu where most of the BJPs supporters are based.

These bills stem from recommendations put forth by a three-member committee headed by retired Justice G.D. Sharma, alongside Munir Ahmad Khan and Rup Lal Bharati.

Established in March 2020 by the Union Territory's appointed government, the committee's suggestions paved the way for bills including The Constitution (Jammu & Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023; The Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Castes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023; and The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023. These bills aim to recognise new social groups such as Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, and Other Backward Classes respectively.

The BJP's underlying aim appears to be creating a social coalition to secure electoral wins in Jammu and Kashmir. Specifically, The Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023 targets the politically significant Pahari community (predominantly Muslim in Jammu's Rajouri and Poonch, also known as Pir Panjal) and a few other tribes/communities in J&K's Scheduled Tribes list. This aligns with the BJP's strategy to engage with the Pahari-speaking population in Jammu's Pir Panchal region, where they hold the majority in seven out of eight segments.

Granting Scheduled Tribe status to the Paharis enables their eligibility to contest polls on reserved seats designated by the delimitation commission. This is crucial for the BJP due to the demographic dynamics in Pir Panchal. The 2011 census highlights their majority presence in several segments.

The BJP's attention to the Pir Panchal region is apparent from its past successes and efforts to maintain a delicate balance between various communities, particularly the Gujjar-Bakerwals and the newly proposed Scheduled Tribes like Paharis.

The bill, The Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Castes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023, aims to include the Valmiki community in the Scheduled Castes list of Jammu and Kashmir. The third bill proposes renaming "Weak and Underprivileged Classes (Social Castes)" as "Other Backward Classes," thereby expanding the OBC list to include 15 additional communities/classes, such as West Pakistan refugees and Gorkhas.

The majority of the newly recognised OBC groups hail from Jammu, seen as a BJP stronghold since the 2014 shift in Hindu votes toward the party.

This trend of favouring Jammu over Kashmir in reservation laws is evident across various aspects, spanning job quotas to admissions in professional colleges. The proposed alterations further tip the scales in favour of Jammu, underscoring a historical advantage for the region in these domains.

The changes in reservation laws have notably impacted the selection processes for key positions, as seen in the recent civil service examination where candidates from Kashmir were significantly underrepresented. There are concerns that these shifts in reservation policies heavily favour Jammu, exacerbating disparities between the regions.

This imbalance in reservation policies could have profound socio-economic implications for Kashmir, which is recovering from the years of turmoil and opportunities available to people in other parts of the country post-liberalisation in the '90s.

Observers stress the need for a more nuanced and comprehensive approach to ensure equitable representation and opportunity across regions and communities in Jammu and Kashmir.

They believe that after having increased the number of assembly seats by six in Jammu against one, the BJP has made serious efforts to accrue benefits to the Hindu majority in Jammu to retain the support that the party has earned since 2009 following the Amarnath land agitation.
The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed two key bills on Jammu and Kashmir with Union Home Minister Amit Shah claiming that these bills will give justice to those who are deprived of their rights for the last 70 years.

The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill were passed in the lower house by voice vote.

Earlier, replying to a debate on the bills, Shah asserted that reservation to the displaced people will give them a voice in the legislature.

"The Bill that I have brought here pertains to bringing justice to and providing rights to those against whom injustice was done, who were insulted and those who were ignored, the home minister said as he claimed that there is a huge difference between giving rights and giving rights respectfully.

In any society, those who are deprived should be brought forward. That is the basic sense of the Constitution of India. But they have to be brought forward in a way that doesn't reduce their respect. There is a huge difference between giving rights and giving rights respectfully. So, instead of weak and deprived category renaming it to Other Backward Class is important," he said, reported ANI.

Accusing the opposition parties of using the issues in Kashmir for vote bank politics, Shah said Prime Minister Narendra Modi understands the pain of the poor.

Modi is a leader who was born into a poor family and became the Prime Minister of the country today. He knows the pain of the poor," the home minister said.

The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill seeks to amend section 2 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Act, 2004 to change the nomenclature of weak and under privileged classes (social castes) to other backward classes.

The second bill seeks to provide representation to Kashmiri migrants, displaced Persons from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and scheduled tribes in the Legislative Assembly of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir "to preserve their political rights as well as for their overall social and economic development".
The Rajasthan Police on Wednesday carried out searches to nab the two accused behind the killing of Rajput leader and national president of Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi.



Jaipur Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph told PTI that the two accused, who shot dead Gogamedi as well as Naveen Singh Shekhawat, who accompanied them to the Rajput leader's residence on Tuesday, have been identified and searches are on to trace them.



One of the accused is from Haryana and the other from Rajasthan, he said.



Joseph said the two accused secured access to Gogamedi's house through Shekhawat.



It is a matter of investigation whether Shekhawat, who used to run a cloth shop, was aware of the intentions of the two accused, he said.



Gogamedi was shot dead in the living room of his house here on Tuesday.



The killing triggered protests by members of the Rajput community who have called for a Jaipur bandh.



Khatipura road in Jaipur was blocked while community members in large numbers were sitting outside the Metro Mass hospital in Mansarovar area in Jaipur where the body is kept.



Similar protests took place in Jodhpur and Udaipur also. However, the protest was peaceful and there was no violence.



Slamming the state police for the killing, Mahipal Singh Makrana, national president of the Shri Rajput Karni Sena, demanded the removal of the state DG for "failing" to provide security to Gogamedi.



There was an intelligence input about the murder of Sukhdev Gogamedi from Punjab Police but the Rajasthan Police did not provide him security. This is a clear failure of the police. The DG should be moved and action against negligent police officials should be taken, he told PTI.



Makrana said there is huge resentment in the Rajput community and they will be forced to hold protests across the country if the accused were not caught.



He said not only the Rajput community, but the 'Sarv Samaj' (all communities) is agitated over the incident.



Gangster Rohit Godara linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang has taken responsibility for the murder on a social media post, a police official said.



Gogamedi's supporters have demanded a compensation of Rs 11 crore for the family of the slain leader.



"The incident makes it clear that there is 'Jungle Raj' (law of jungle) in Rajasthan. The accused should be killed in an encounter, one of the supporters said.
The INDIA alliance discussions with regard to putting up a united fight against the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections sputtered ahead after a long gap this evening, with the floor leaders of the parties in Parliament meeting at the residence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.

Floor leaders of 17 parties in Parliament attended the meeting, which marked a formal resumption of talks with regard to fighting the Lok Sabha elections unitedly. The talks have resumed after a gap of around three months. The alliance discussions had been put on the backburner as the Congress, the principal opposition party, was preoccupied with fighting the Assembly elections.

Kharge was accompanied by party colleagues Rahul Gandhi and K.C. Venugopal in the meeting. The 17 parties represented in the meeting were the Congress, DMK, JD(U), Samajwadi Party, RJD, AAP, CPI(M), CPI, NCP, RLD, National Conference, IUML, RSP, JMM, VCK, Kerala Congress(M) and MDMK. The Trinamool Congress and Shiv Sena-UBT were not present in the meeting.

The meeting was held in the backdrop of the Congress' drubbing in the three Hindi heartland states

of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. The Congress had shown a disinclination towards sharing seats with alliance partners in the Assembly elections, and the regional parties that constitute the grouping have already made their ire known.

Kharge had invited opposition leaders for a meeting of the alliance scheduled for today. However, with prominent leaders, including Trinamool supremo Mamata Banerjee, JD(U)'s Nitish Kumar and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressing their inability to attend the meeting, a decision to postpone it was taken on Tuesday. A new date for the meeting is yet to be announced.

The Congress has downplayed the significance of the meeting held this evening in an apparent effort to reject the idea that it is a poor substitute for the meet of top leaders of the parties that was planned originally. It has attempted to project it as an interaction held to discuss parliamentary issues.

A meeting of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha floor leaders of the INDIA alliance was held. Many issues of Parliament were discussed. There was a discussion about the upcoming bills, the government's behaviour and other things, said Congress' Rajya Sabha MP Naseer Hussain after the meeting.

Asked about the absence of TMC and Shiv Sena-UBT in the meeting, he said the parties had conveyed earlier that they would not be able to attend the meeting today.

According to sources, the TMC will attend the swearing in ceremony of Telangana PCC chief Revanth Reddy as the chief minister of the state. It is learnt that Mamata was invited, but she will not be able to make it since she has prior engagements. TMC's leader in the Rajya Sabha Derek O'Brien, it is learnt, will attend the swearing-in.

Hussain said the INDIA alliance leaders were being consulted about when the next meeting of the grouping can be held. He said the date of the meeting will be announced in a day or two.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry discussed with a host of US Congressional Friends of Egypt Caucus during a meeting in Washington DC Wednesday a series of regional issues, including the ongoing war in Gaza.

Shoukry and the US group tackled the importance of an immediate ceasefire to protect the Palestinian civilians in Gaza. They also urged for a fresh, serious start to the peace process to establish the Palestinian state within a specified timeframe, added the statement.

The meeting also touched upon the situations in Sudan and Libya and the developments of the long-standing dispute over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.

Shoukry reviewed Egypts economic efforts in the past years, including launching the economic reform program.

He said such a step resulted in several achievements despite the challenging international and regional circumstances, the statement noted.

On the social level, Shoukry highlighted Egypts success in adopting effective policies in empowering women, establishing a social security network, and launching the 2021-2026 National Human Rights Strategy.

The meeting also addressed various aspects of the bilateral relations. The group members expressed their support for enhancing Egyptian-US relations in all fields as per the statement.

On Tuesday, Shoukry met a number of US senators and discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip, including the humanitarian conditions and ongoing efforts to stop the war in Gaza.

Shoukry will join the Arab-Muslim ministerial delegation, set to visit DC on Thursday, where they will meet with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and members of the US Congress.

The delegation's visit comes in line with the final resolution passed at the Joint Arab-Islamic Extraordinary Summit in Riyadh to spearhead international action to end the war on Gaza and tackle the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the besieged Strip.

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The Rajput community outfits have called for a bandh in Jaipur on Wednesday to protest against the murder of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena national president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi.

Gogamedi was shot dead by three armed men in his house in Jaipur on Tuesday, sending shock waves across Rajasthan. One of the assailants was gunned down by Gogamedi's security guard in retaliatory fire.



The community has also demanded a judicial probe into the matter and threatened a statewide shutdown if action is not taken on the matter.

Outgoing chief minister Ashok Gehlot was quick to condemn the murder in a post on X. "The murder of Shri Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi is very sad. I pray to God to give peace to the departed soul and strength to his family to bear this loss."

However, the BJP alleged that the outgoing Congress government had denied police protection to Gogamedi. "The incident is unfortunate. A national-level social worker who sought protection from the police but did not get it and was killed by gangsters. This is a stain on the outgoing government of Rajasthan," said BJP leader Rajendra Rathore.

Rajasthan BJP chief C P Joshi said Gogamedi had been asking the administration to increase his security for a long time but his request was not granted. "What were the reasons for not providing security is a matter of investigation. Criminals who create anarchy need to be arrested immediately," he said.

Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat too slammed the Gehlot regime in Rajasthan, saying this is the adverse effect of the way "gang wars have flourished" in the desert state since the time of the Ashok Gehlot government. "Due to the threats that Karni Sena president late Sukhdev Singhji had received, he had filed a police complaint and also warned the administration about it. But unfortunately, security was not provided at the level at which it should have been provided," he told PTI at the Parliament complex here.



Senior BJP leader Vasundhara Raje termed Gogamedi's murder highly condemnable and unfortunate.



The Congress pinned the blame on the BJP, stating this was the beginning of the BJP rule. "This incident is sad and unfortunate. I strongly condemn it but if this is the beginning of BJP then what will happen next," Congress leader Pramod Tiwari told reporters.



Congress leader Rajeev Shukla pointed out that the Karni Sena president was killed only days after his party was voted out of power in Rajasthan. "They (BJP) created a huge ruckus over the issue, you know which one, during the polls. What is their reply on this? The killing of the Karni Sena president is wrong. Justice was being done under the Gehlot government and as soon as it left, the problem has started," Shukla said.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday pointed out two big mistakes done by Indias first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, which led to the sufferings of the people in Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking in Lok Sabha, Shah noted that Nehru declared a ceasefire without winning the entire Kashmir (during the 1948 India-Pakistan war) and he also took the Kashmir issue to the United Nations.

"I support the word that was used here -- Nehruvian blunder. Because of the blunder that was committed during the time of Nehru, Kashmir had to suffer," Shah said.

"Kashmir had to suffer due to Nehruvian blunders. One was that when our Army was winning and as soon as Punjab area was reached, ceasefire was declared and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir was born. If the ceasefire would have been (declared) three days later, PoK would have been part of India," he said.

The second blunder committed by Nehru was taking Indias internal issue to the UN, said the home minister.

"So much land of this country was lost, it was a historic blunder."

Shah was replying to a debate on two key billsJammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Billwhich were later passed by the lower house.

The home minister blamed the previous governments in the erstwhile state for the exodus of Kashmiri pandits from the region.

The two bills will give justice to those who are deprived of their rights for the last 70 years, Shah said, while asserting that that reservation to the displaced people will give them a voice in the legislature.

"The bill that I have brought here pertains to bringing justice to and providing rights to those against whom injustice was done, who were insulted and those who were ignored, he said.

The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill seeks to provide representation to Kashmiri migrants, displaced Persons from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and scheduled tribes in the Legislative Assembly of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir "to preserve their political rights as well as for their overall social and economic development".
Israel said on Tuesday that its troops had entered Gaza's second-largest city as intensified bombardment sent streams of ambulances and cars racing to hospitals with wounded and dead Palestinians, including children, in a bloody new phase of the war.

The military said its forces were in the heart of Khan Younis, which has emerged as the first target in the expanded ground offensive into southern Gaza that Israel says aims to destroy Hamas. Military officials said they were engaged in the most intense day of battles since the ground offensive began more than five weeks ago, with heavy firefights also taking place in northern Gaza.

The assault into the south threatens to fuel a new wave of displaced Palestinians and a worsening of Gaza's humanitarian catastrophe. The UN said 1.87 million people more than 80 per cent of Gaza's population have been driven from their homes, and that fighting is now preventing distribution of food, water and medicine outside a tiny sliver of southern Gaza. New military evacuation orders are squeezing people into ever-smaller areas of the south.

Bombardment has grown fiercer across the territory, including areas where Palestinians are told to seek safety. In the central Gaza town of Deir al-Balah, just north of Khan Younis, a strike Tuesday destroyed a house where dozens of displaced people were sheltering. At least 34 people were killed, including at least six children, according to an Associated Press reporter at the hospital who counted the bodies.



Footage from the scene showed women screaming from an upper floor of a house shattered to a concrete shell. In the wreckage below, men pulled the limp body of a child from under a slab next to a burning car. At the nearby hospital, medics tried to resuscitate a young boy and girl, bloodied and unmoving on a stretcher.



Israel's assault in retaliation for Hamas's October 7 attack has killed more than 16,200 people in Gaza 70 per cent of them women and children with more than 42,000 wounded, according to the Health Ministry in Gaza, which released new figures late on Tuesday. The ministry does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths. It says hundreds have been killed or wounded since a weeklong cease-fire ended on Friday, and many still are trapped under rubble.



Israel says it must remove Hamas from power to prevent a repeat of the attack that ignited the war, when Hamas and other militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took captive some 240 men, women and children.



Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Tuesday the military would have to retain open-ended security control over the Gaza Strip long after the war ends. His comments suggested a renewed direct Israeli occupation of Gaza, something the United States says it opposes.



Netanyahu said only the Israeli military can ensure Gaza remains demilitarised. "No international force can be responsible for this," he said at a news conference. "I'm not ready to close my eyes and accept any other arrangement."



Meanwhile, damily members of hostages still held in Gaza held tense talks with Netanyahu and the war cabinet Tuesday. Observers present said more than 100 people attended the nearly three-hour meeting. Some relatives shouted at cabinet members, perceiving they did not have any immediate plans to rescue some 138 hostages still captive. Nearly half the room left in disappointment before the meeting ended.



During the gathering, five hostages released during the truce shared harrowing details of their experience. One spoke of Hamas fighters touching female hostages, and another said militants shaved off a male hostage's body hair to humiliate him, according to a group representing the hostages' families. Others said they were deprived of water.



A doctor who treated some of the 110 released hostages told the AP separately that at least 10 women and men among those freed were sexually assaulted or abused, but did not provide further details. He spoke on condition of anonymity to protect the hostages' identities.



Noam Peri, whose 80-year-old father is still being held captive, said the meeting with Netanyahu and the war cabinet was not a relaxed discussion.



After 60 days, people are tired and worried, Peri said.


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has cancelled a planned virtual address to US lawmakers where he was expected to advocate for continued military support. However, the President will appear Wednesday before a virtual meeting of leaders from the Group of Seven leading industrialised nations.

"Zelenskyy by the way could not make it to  something happened at the last minute  to our briefing," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a press conference on Tuesday.



Zelenskyy was planning to call on lawmakers to vote on a bill that includes billions of dollars in new aid for Ukraine. This came as the Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young warned in a letter to congressional leaders on Monday that by the end of the year, the United States will no longer have the funds to send weapons and assistance to Ukraine. Ukraine "will not be able to keep fighting, Young said, noting that the U.S. also has run out of money for propping up Ukraines economy.



"I want to be clear: Without congressional action, by the end of the year we will run out of resources to procure more weapons and equipment for Ukraine, to provide equipment from U.S. military stocks," she wrote. "There is no magical pot of funding available to meet this moment."



Zelensky was also expected to brief the senators on the situation in his country as Ukraine's months-long counteroffensive faces risks of failure without US aid.



US President Joe Biden has advocated for Congress to release $106 billion to fund ambitious plans for Ukraine, Israel and U.S. border security. But, the efforts face hindrances with many Republican senators openly coming out against funding for Ukraine. Republican Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mike Johnson, took to X to call for accountability.



"The Biden Administration has failed to substantively address any of my conference's legitimate concerns about the lack of a clear strategy in Ukraine, a path to resolving the conflict, or a plan for adequately ensuring accountability for aid provided by American taxpayers," he wrote on social media.



The Congress already has allocated USD111 billion to assist Ukraine, including USD67 billion in military procurement funding, USD27 billion for economic and civil assistance and USD10 billion for humanitarian aid. Young wrote that all of it, other than about 3 per cent of the military funding, had been depleted by mid-November.
New Delhi, Dec 5 (PTI) SpiceJet on Tuesday said its plane flying from Ahmedabad to Dubai was diverted to Karachi due to a medical emergency.

An airline spokesperson said the aircraft landed safely at Karachi and further details were awaited.

"On December 5, 2023, SpiceJet Boeing 737 aircraft operating flight SG-15 (Ahmedabad-Dubai) was diverted to Karachi due to a medical emergency," the spokesperson said.
~ Wins for Best CSR/Corporate Sustainability Initiative and Best Global/International Organization for Business Culture underscore UST's commitment to driving positive social impact ~



LONDON and BENGALURU, India, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- UST, a leading digital transformation solutions company, was recognised for the fourth consecutive year at the prestigious 2023 Business Culture Awards (BCA), winning recognition for its commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and sustainability. This year, UST secured wins in two significant categories - Best CSR/Corporate Sustainability Initiative for its community-based environment projects aligned with its business strategy and net zero goal, and Best Global/International Organization for Business Culture for COLORS, an award-winning employee engagement program of UST.



The award ceremony was held in London, UK, and celebrated UST's exceptional accomplishments in fostering a culture of excellence and sustainability. The company secured victory in two competitive categories, underscoring its commitment to corporate social responsibility, and building an inclusive business culture. UST has previously been recognized across a range of categories by BCA, earning recognition as the Best Large Organization  Business Culture and Building a Culture of Innovation in 2022, the Business Culture Team Award in 2021 and the Best International Initiative for Business Culture in 2020.

By securing top honors in the Best CSR/Corporate Sustainability Initiative, UST affirmed its dedication to leading in corporate sustainability and social responsibility on a global stage. Furthermore, recognition by BCA as the Best Global/International Organisation for Business Culture category, highlights UST's global influence and unwavering commitment to cultivating a positive and inclusive business culture. In addition to these prestigious awards, UST was named a finalist in three other prominent categories:



 Building a Culture of Innovation Initiative: UST's initiatives to instill a culture of innovation within the organization were acknowledged, positioning the company among the finalists in this dynamic category.



 Business Culture Leadership Award: UST's leadership's commitment to cultivating a positive and impactful business culture garnered the company a finalist position in this leadership-focused category.



 Business Culture Team Award (Large Organization): UST's expansive team and their collaborative efforts were recognized, securing a finalist position in the large organization category.



BCA judges were impressed by the impact of UST's initiatives, with one stating, "An organization that effectively translates its words into actions in the realm of CSR." Another judge praised UST's inclusive strategy, noting, "COLORS of UST serves as a noteworthy illustration of enhancing and adapting a well-established, award-winning program to meet evolving organizational and global needs, rather than opting for a complete reinvention, which often involves communication and adoption challenges."



"It is an honor to have represented UST alongside esteemed colleagues at the Business Culture Awards ceremony. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to fostering a business culture rooted in excellence, innovation, and sustainability. I am proud of our team's collective efforts, and this achievement inspires us to further elevate industry standards. At UST, we believe that corporate success should be a force for positive societal impact, and this award strengthens our resolve to lead the way in shaping a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand," said Praveen Prabhakaran, Chief Delivery Officer, UST.



"I want to express my deepest appreciation to every member of our global team whose unwavering commitment propels us forward in our mission to transform lives. This achievement goes beyond mere acknowledgment; it is a celebration of our shared values and the impact of our persistent endeavors to create a better society for all. Whether through our CSR initiatives or COLORS programs, each team member has played a pivotal role in helping us win recognition for the fourth consecutive year. To our teams around the world that are guided by our core values  Humility, Humanity, and Integrity  thank you for being the driving force behind our success and embodying the distinctive spirit that defines UST," said Sunil Balakrishnan, Chief Values Officer, and Global Head for Development Center Operations, UST.



This remarkable achievement underscores UST's dedication to excellence across various facets of business culture. As a company at the forefront of innovation and sustainability, UST continues to set industry benchmarks, shaping a future where corporate success is synonymous with sustained social impact.



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' organizationsdelivering measurable value and lasting change across industries, and around the world. Together, with over 30,000 employees in 30+ countries, we build for boundless impacttouching 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 7736795557

media.relations@ust.com



Media Contacts, U.S.

S&C PR

+1-646.941.9139

media@scprgroup.com



Makovsky

ust@makovsky.com



Media Contacts, U.K.:

FTI Consulting

UST@fticonsulting.com



Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1422658/UST_Logo.jpg



(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

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New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) Adani Group has plans to invest USD 75 billion on energy transition initiatives by 2030, its chairman Gautam Adani said on Wednesday.

The investments will boost the group's vision to have 45 gigawatt of renewable energy capacity by 2030, Adani said in a statement.

"We are committed to largescale renewables, developing an indigenous fully integrated manufacturing ecosystem and green hydrogen solutions. At the Adani portfolio level, a total investment of USD 75 billion by 2030 on our energy transition initiatives will further our vision to have 45 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030 and strengthen the pivotal role played by AGEL in Indias glide path to decarbonization," the group chairman said.

The investments will be executed through Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL).

AGEL has emerged as the second-largest global solar PV developer in the US-based Mercom Capital Group's latest annual global report.

"The company's outstanding performance and contribution to the renewable energy landscape have earned it the prestigious second rank among the world's foremost solar PV developers," the statement said.

It has an operating renewable portfolio of 8.4 GW, the largest in India, spread across 12 states, offsetting over 41 million tonne of CO2 emissions cumulatively.
Ahmedabad, Dec 6 (PTI) Leading car manufacturer Maruti Suzuki on Wednesday announced that its upcoming electric SUV will be manufactured in Gujarat, and a new plant will be added to the company's existing manufacturing facility in Hansalpur, nearly 90 km from here.

Suzuki Motor Gujarat Private Ltd (SMG), which runs the car manufacturing plant at Hansalpur, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Maruti Suzuki and commenced operation in February 2017.

"Our first EV, an SUV, will be launched in the next financial year of 2024-25. It will come out from SMG's Gujarat plant. At present, the entire SMG facility at Hansalpur has three plants - plant A, B and C. Now, to manufacture the EV, a new plant, also called a production line, will be added there," Maruti Suzuki Executive Director (Corporate Affairs) Rahul Bharti told reporters.

The upcoming EV SUV, to be produced here at the SMG plant, will be exported too, he added.

In March 2022, SMG's parent firm Suzuki Motor Corporation signed an MoU with the Gujarat government to invest Rs 3,100 crore in the Hansalpur plant for EV manufacturing, Bharti said.

"Our EV concept car has already been unveiled. It will be a high-specification SUV having 550 km range (on a single charge) and a 60-kilowatt-hour battery," he said, adding that no specific number has been finalised yet about the number of units to be rolled out from the Gujarat plant.

In another announcement, the company said the SMG plant has surpassed the milestone of 3 million cumulative production. The three-millionth car was rolled out from the plant on December 4.

This Gujarat facility of Maruti Suzuki has an annual production capacity of 7.5 lakh units, and vehicles manufactured here are sold in both domestic as well as export markets. The company manufactures Baleno, Swift, Dzire, Fronx and Tour S models at this facility, Bharti said.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) Amid reports raising questions on why under-construction Silkyara tunnel in Uttarkashi did not have a separate escape tunnel, the government on Wednesday said a separation wall was provided in the tunnel with egress openings at regular intervals that could be used as an escape route during an emergency.

The 41 workers, who were trapped in the tunnel from November 12, were rescued on November 28.

In a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Union Road Transport and Highways minister Nitin Gadkari said, "In the Silkyara bi-directional tunnel on Dharasu-Yumunotri highway (NH-134), a provision of separation wall has been provided at the centre of the carriageway along with egress openings at an average interval of 565 metres for vehicular crossover and at an average interval of 300 metres for pedestrian cross passage for escape purposes during the emergencies."

Gadkari was asked whether the government has conducted a probe as to why Navayuga Engineering Company Ltd (NECL) did not build a rescue route, as is the norm in tunnel construction.

The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL) is constructing the tunnel through Hyderabad-based Navayuga Engineering Company Ltd.

Silkyara tunnel is a single-tube tunnel and is divided into two inter-connected corridors by a partition wall.

Each inter-connector corridor can work as an escape passage for the other.

On whether the government had reviewed safety norms after the collapse of the tunnel in 2019, the minister said the Silkyara tunnel on the Dharasu-Yumunotri highway (NH-134) is being built under the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode, wherein the design responsibility lies with the EPC contractor.

"After encountering minor spalls/falling of debris-forming cavities during construction in 2019, the construction sequences and primary support system are reviewed from time to time on the basis of actual ground behaviour observed and are approved by authority's engineer engaged for the project, which are executed under the supervision of officials of NHIDCL," he added.

The minister said on the intervention application filed by the Ministry of Defence, the Supreme Court in 2021 permitted widening of the three strategically important National Highways -- Rishikesh-Mana (NH-7), Rishikesh-Gangotri (NH-34) and Tanakpur-Pithoragarh (NH-9) -- to two-lane with paved shoulder (10-metre wide pavement) under Char Dham Pariyojana.

The 4.5-kilometre Silkyara tunnel project in Uttarakhand, which is part of the Centre's strategic 900-km 'Char Dham Yatra All Weather Road', aims to improve connectivity to four holy towns of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath in Uttarakhand.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the second edition of the flagship financial technology event Infinity Forum 2.0 on Saturday, the finance ministry said on Wednesday.

The event will be hosted by the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) and GIFT City, under the aegis of Government of India, the ministry said.

The forum is hosted by IFSCA as a global thought leadership platform on financial services, where progressive ideas, pressing problems, innovative technologies from across the world get discovered, discussed and developed into solutions and opportunities.

Organised as a pre-cursor event to the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024, the second of the Infinity Forum 2.0, shall be held in hybrid mode, with an invite-only in-person event scheduled in GIFT City and for virtual participation from participants across the globe.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal; Minister for Railways, Communications, Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw will address the event.

Ajay Seth, Secretary, Economic Affairs Secretary, Ministry of Finance; K Rajaraman Chairperson, IFSCA; Hasmukh Adhia, Chairman, GIFT City Co Ltd; Tapan Ray, MD & CEO, GIFT City Co Ltd; K V Kamath, Chairman, National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NaBFID); and Uday Kotak, Founder and Director, Kotak Mahindra Bank, will also address participants.

The forum will also witness participation from the financial sector in India and across the globe, including Boston Consulting Group, Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Ltd, Morgan Stanley (India), Bank of America, India, Paytm and Zerodha.

The forum is likely to witness in-person participation by 300+ CXOs with strong online participation from India and global audience from over 20 countries, including the US, the UK, Singapore, South Africa, the UAE, Australia, and Germany, the ministry said.
Egypt's Ministry of Health and Population announced Wednesday the distribution of 27 medical scanning devices to hospitals across eight Egyptian governorates, including North Sinai, in preparation to receive injured Palestinians from the Gaza Strip.

The scanning devices were distributed to hospitals in the following governorates: Cairo, Alexandria, Qena, Assiut, Kafr El-Sheikh, Qalyubia, North Sinai, and Suez, according to Hossam Abdel-Ghaffar, the ministry's spokesperson.

Abdel-Ghaffar pointed out that El-Arish and Zuweid central hospitals in North Sinai have been supplied with various mobile X-ray and digital CR imaging devices, as well as C-arm fluoroscopy machines, as part of the medical preparations to receive the injured from Gaza.

Maintenance contracts were issued for mammogram machines in the mobile women's health units, a mammogram machine at Desouk Hospital, and an X-ray machine at the Abbasiya Fever Hospital in Cairo, to ensure the machines' safety and effectiveness in serving patients, Abdel-Ghaffar added.

Moreover, 82 governmental and non-governmental medical facilities with MRI machines have been licensed, Mohamed Al-Nadi, head of the Central Administration for Therapeutic Medicine, pointed out.

On Monday, 23 injured Palestinians from the Gaza Strip arrived at the Rafah border for medical treatment in Egypt, adding to the tally previously announced on 29 November that reached 575 injured Palestinians.

Last week, the ministry launched an initiative to treat 1,000 children wounded in Israel's attack on the strip, in cooperation with Terous Misr Foundation for Development, an NGO, and Nestle Egypt, a private bottled water brand.

On Sunday, the Qatari government announced that 1,500 Palestinian patients will be transferred from Gaza to Egypt for treatment at the expense of the Qatari ruler, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.

Turkey and the UAE launched similar initiatives in November.

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Geneva, Dec 6 (PTI) On average, airlines will retain just USD 5.45 for every passenger carried by them and the amount is just enough to buy a basic grand latte at a London Starbucks, IATA chief Willie Walsh said on Wednesday as he emphasised that the profit of airlines should be put in proper perspective.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has projected the airline industry to rake in profits of USD 25.7 billion in 2024 and USD 23.3 billion this year.

Walsh, the Director General of IATA, said that considering the major losses of recent years, the USD 25.7 billion net profit expected in 2024 is a tribute to aviation's resilience and that the speed of the recovery has been extraordinary, but it also appears that the pandemic has cost aviation about four years of growth.

"Industry profits must be put into proper perspective. While the recovery is impressive, a net profit margin of 2.7 per cent is far below what investors in almost any other industry would accept. Of course, many airlines are doing better than that average, and many are struggling. But there is something to be learned from the fact that, on average, airlines will retain just USD 5.45 for every passenger carried. That's about enough to buy a basic 'grande latte' at a London Starbucks.

"But, it is far too little to build a future that is resilient to shocks for a critical global industry on which 3.5 per cent of GDP depends and from which 3.05 million people directly earn their livelihoods," Walsh said in a release.

Speaking at a session here, Walsh said that a lot of supply chain issues have impacted the capacity plans of airlines and also mentioned that the problem with GTF engines was very disappointing.

These engines are manufactured by Pratt & Whitney (P&W) , and many of them are expected to be taken out for service next year due to certain issues.
Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 6 (PTI) Jeo Baby, the director of Mammootty starrer 'Kaathal - The Core', on Wednesday lashed out at a private Muslim-management run college in Kozhikode over the last minute cancellation of an event which he was invited to inaugurate.

Taking to social media platform Instagram to air his "bad experience" and "protest" against the same, Baby said in a video post that not only was his time wasted in travelling to Kozhikode, he was "insulted".

"I need an explanation for what happened. Additionally, I will be taking legal action in connection with the incident. If I do not protest like this, it would not be right. Moreover, no one else should ever have to suffer such an experience as I did," the filmmaker, whose latest movie 'Kaathal - The Core' is about rights of the LGBTQIA+ community, said.

He said that the event -- 'Subtle Politics of Present Day Malayala Cinema' -- was organised by the college's film club and he was invited to inaugurate it on December 5.

"On reaching Kozhikode on December 5 morning, I came to know that the program was cancelled. I was informed about it by a teacher who was part of the event. The teacher was also pained by what happened. However, when I sought an explanation or reason for the cancellation, a clear answer was not forthcoming," he said.

As he was not getting any reason for the cancellation, he sent an email to the college principal and also messaged him mobile on December 5 seeking an explanation, he said.

"Till date I have not received a response," Baby said.

He said that later he received, as a forwarded message, a letter of the college's student union.

Reading out the purported letter's contents on the video, Baby said that the students union stated it would not cooperate with the event as some of his recent statements were against the moral values of the college.

"The students union has a problem with my moral values. Why did the college management cancel the event? I want to know that.

"What kind of idea is the educational institution and the students union intending to convey through such actions also needs to be found out," the director said, adding that he was making the video as a mark of protest.
New York, Dec 6 (AP) Kash Patel, a Donald Trump ally who worked in his Justice Department, said Tuesday that if the former president is elected again, his administration will retaliate against people in the media criminally or civilly.

Patel, who was also chief of staff in the Defence Department and held a role on the National Security Council, made the comment on Steve Bannon's podcast. He said that, in a second Trump administration, We will go out and find the conspirators not just in government, but in the media, over the 2020 election, which Trump lost to Democrat Joe Biden.

Trump and his allies have repeatedly claimed the election was stolen, despite the fact that numerous federal and local officials, a long list of courts, top former campaign staffers and even his own attorney general have all said there is no evidence of the fraud he alleges. Trump has also promised retribution as a central part of his campaign message as he seeks a second term in the White House.

Trump's campaign distanced itself from Patel's comments, saying that proclamations like this have nothing to do with them. The campaign did not respond to questions about whether Trump is considering the plans Patel described.

In a Fox News Channel interview later Tuesday, Trump declined twice to say he would not abuse power to seek retribution in a second White House term.

You mean like they're using right now? Trump responded to one question, alleging that the Biden administration was abusing power.

Patel is a fellow at the Center for Renewing America, a conservative think tank that is part of a network of conservative groups that is preparing for a possible second White House term for Trump or any conservative who aligns with their views.

In his interview with Bannon, Patel said: We're going to come after the people in the media who lied about American citizens who helped Joe Biden rig presidential elections. We're going to come after you, whether it's criminally or civilly. We'll figure that out. But yeah, we're putting you all on notice."

Trump has long targeted the media, labeling news organizations as Fake News and the Enemy of the People, a phrase linked to Soviet dictator Josef Stalin.

In a post on his Truth Social network in September, Trump repeated both phrases and vowed to investigate NBC News and MSNBC for Country Threatening Treason" and try to curb their access to the airwaves.

I say up front, openly, and proudly, that when I WIN the Presidency of the United States, they and others of the LameStream Media will be thoroughly scrutinized for their knowingly dishonest and corrupt coverage of people, things, and events," Trump said in the post. "Why should NBC, or any other of the corrupt & dishonest media companies, be entitled to use the very valuable Airwaves of the USA, FREE? They are a true threat to Democracy and are, in fact, THE ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE! The Fake News Media should pay a big price for what they have done to our once great Country.

In the interview, Bannon suggested Patel might be a possible director of the CIA if Trump wins another term.

The Trump campaign did not respond to a question about whether Patel was being considered for a role as CIA director.

Patel was a guest at Trump's kickoff for his 2024 presidential campaign last year at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. In June, he attended Trump's speech at his Bedminster resort following the former president's appearance in court on federal charges he mishandled classified documents. (AP)

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Doha (Qatar), Dec 6 (PTI) With universities and schools lying in rubble in Gaza and Ukraine, experts have underlined the urgent need to protect education at all costs to mitigate the effects of the war and ensure that the coming generations do not bear the brunt of raging conflicts.

Stressing the need to recognise that there are real lives at stake in the war in Gaza and Ukraine, and not just statistics and headlines, the experts focused on educational recovery, trauma, psycho-social emotional learning during a session titled "Education in Times of War" at the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) here last week.

"I am not just a survivor from Gaza but a living testament to the resilience that education can cultivate even in the harshest of circumstances. The sounds of rockets, aeroplanes, and bombs in my childhood in Gaza shadowed any dreams for the future. My home was bombed without any warning in 2014 and my uncle and my father were killed," said Athar Ahmed, an education consultant who works in Turkey.

"Hope found me in the form of a scholarship and I moved out of Gaza. For me, it was not just the financial support and transformative journey, but the focus on personal development, leadership skills, and community engagement," she said.

Ahmed, who has an MBA degree, further said, "As we witness the ongoing tragedy in Gaza, we must recognise the importance of protecting education at all costs. It is not just a university, a classroom or a diploma, it is a beacon of hope, a path to a better future. We need to ensure that the next generations do not have to bear the brunt of this never-ending conflict and that the effects of the war can be mitigated".

According to Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Education Above All Foundation (EAA) Foundation, a leading global education institution, since the start of the current Israeli aggression in Gaza in October, 36 EAA-supported schools and universities have been completely or partially destroyed.

"With the collapse of each school and each university, we lose a pillar in the foundation of the future. For every child deprived of education because of violence, another pillar is lost," she said.

Noted American economist and Director of the Centre for Sustainable Development, Columbia University, Jeffrey Sach, said any war raging on the planet needs to be stopped.

"UN Security Council had decided in 1945 to find a dialogue to seek a solution to control war and arms control. The UN Security Council has adopted methods to control Islamic homicides. The problem lies in the lack of resolution taken at various meetings, which needs to be strongly implemented," said Sach.

"There is a need to implement solutions to control the situation which has led to millions of Ukrainians and Syrians dead. We need to implement solutions. It is more of a political battle and the solution will be when each country needs to abide by the resolution of the Security Council.

"Within our reach and resolution, if countries lived up to international laws, things would be easier. Nations will not lift swords against nations," he added.

Organised by the Qatar Foundation in association with Education Above All, the WISE summit was attended by scholars, policymakers, administrators, scientists, educators, startup founders and students from across the globe who discussed their experiences and knowledge on diverse domains.
Nabi Saleh (West Bank), Dec 6 (AP) For all Palestinian parents, Marwan Tamimi said, there comes a moment they realise they're powerless to protect their children.

For the 48-year-old father of three, it came in June, when Israeli forces fired a large rubber bullet that struck the head of his eldest son, Wisam. A week later, Marwan said, soldiers came for the 17-year-old, dragging him out of bed with a fractured skull.

Wisam was charged with a range of offences he denied  throwing stones, possessing weapons, placing an explosive device and causing bodily harm  and sent to prison. Last Saturday, after six months behind bars, he returned home with 38 other Palestinians in exchange for Israeli hostages  part of a temporary cease-fire in the war that started after Hamas' October 7 attack.

His parents said they hadn't seen or heard from him in two months, since the war started. Wisam said he stayed in an overcrowded cell, was beaten and interrogated, and lacked food and medication.

I yelled, 'No, he's my boy, you can't take him, he's injured,' Marwan Tamimi said. If I stop them, they will put his life in danger.

Wisam's homecoming last week, along with the Wednesday release of his well-known activist cousin, Ahed Tamimi, touched every home in Nabi Saleh, a village where prison is a grim rite of passage for Palestinian boys.

People clapped. Tears fell. Wisam hugged loved ones. But the euphoria spoke to pain as much as joy in the West Bank, where the UN estimates 750,000 Palestinians have been arrested since Israel captured the territory in the 1967 Mideast war.

The competing claims of Palestinians and Israelis have left scars on Nabi Saleh, home to activists, journalists and lawyers. Once an idyllic village on a hilly stretch of farmland, it's now a powerful example of how Israeli prison over decades of war has crushed families, constrained lives and stamped out popular resistance.

Israel's security service didn't respond to questions about Wisam's case. The military defended large-scale arrests of Palestinians, including minors, to prevent militant attacks. In a statement, the army said it aims to preserve the rights and dignity" of suspects and that convicting a minor requires a burden of proof of guilt beyond reasonable doubt."



IN EVERY HOUSE, A STORY

Most of Nabi Saleh's 550 residents are related by blood or marriage. Nearly all share the surname Tamimi. Most boys  like their fathers and grandfathers  have landed in prison at some point, as the close-knit village became known for its protests.

We live in a village of resistance, Wisam said. "Every house has its own story."

Before Israel and Hamas resumed their war Friday, the militant group had pushed for the release of high-profile prisoners in exchange for remaining Gaza hostages.

But the vast majority of Palestinians passing through Israeli prisons, experts say, are teenage boys and young men who mostly go unnamed, plucked from bed in the middle of the night for throwing stones and firebombs or associating with militants in towns and refugee camps near Israeli settlements. Most of the international community considers Israeli settlements illegal.

Under the weeklong cease-fire agreement, Israel released 240 Palestinian minors and women. Most of the the 14- to 17-year-olds freed were detained for investigation and not convicted, reported the Palestinian Prisoners' Club, an advocacy group, based on Israeli Prison Service data. Over that same week, Israel arrested 260 other Palestinians, the group said.

Yearly, the Israeli military court sentences hundreds of minors to prison, mostly for throwing stones, according to Military Court Watch. Most are 16 or 17. Israel says stone-throwing can be dangerous and deadly.



THE 'CRACKDOWN'

The conviction rate for security offenses in the West Bank is more than 99 per cent. Lawyers often encourage young clients to plead guilty to avoid lengthy trials and detentions. Some are never formally charged or tried, held under a practice known as administrative detention.

Israel has arrested 3,450 Palestinians across the West Bank since the war erupted. An all-time high of 2,873 Palestinians are in administrative detention, according to Israeli rights group HaMoked.

The crackdown in a way contradicts our intention not to open another front in the West Bank, said Ami Ayalon, former director of Israel's Shin Bet security service. We understand the more people killed and arrested, the more hatred rises. But on the other hand, we don't want to pay the price in terrorist attacks.

The intensifying violence and constraints on Palestinian freedom of movement have generated fear in Nabi Saleh. It's the latest chapter in the tumultuous history of a village once at the centre of a spirited protest movement that began in 2009 and made global headlines. Each week, residents rallied over the loss of their ancestral lands and freshwater spring to the fast-growing Israeli settlement across the road.

Israel says troops responded only after protesters started throwing stones and trying to enter a military zone.

Troops sent protesters fleeing with tear gas, rubber-coated bullets, blasts of noxious liquid and live fire. They carried out nighttime raids, arresting mostly young men, and killed six Palestinian villagers during protests, all young men, residents said.



PARENTAL PLEAS AND THE RESISTANCE

Marwan Tamimi begged his sons to stay away from what Palestinians call the muqawama, or resistance.

All of us here, we care so much about our children. We tell them, Look, don't go and throw stones, you don't need to prove yourself,' he said.

Wisam lost 12 kilograms (26 pounds) in prison, where he said he shared meals of undercooked chicken and stale bread with 11 others, an account supported by prisoner rights groups. They were packed into a cell that held half that number pre-war, he said.

The Israeli Prison Service denied authorities crowded cells or reduced meals. But national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has promoted harsh disciplinary treatment of Palestinian prisoners. Parliament temporarily approved prisons filling beyond legal capacity.

For Wisam, solitary confinement was the real torment. Authorities blasted air conditioning and his only human contact came as punches during interrogations, he said.

The Prison Service said Palestinians are detained according to law.

A week after his release, Wisam winces at the sight of his home's grated door. He takes driving classes in hopes of avoiding arrest even for traffic offenses.

This is what I was trying to prevent, said Marwan Tamimi, who moved his family to Ramallah at the height of the Nabi Saleh protests in 2014. The family returned in 2021, after the military's response brought the rallies to an end. An uneasy calm prevailed.

But beneath the surface, pressure builds. More minors pass through Israel's jailhouse door.

I expected to die in there, Wisam said. I don't want to go there ever again." (AP)



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Beijing, Dec 6 (AP) An audit commissioned by Volkswagen has found no indication of forced labour at its plant in China's Xinjiang region, where Western governments have accused the Chinese government of human rights violations against the Uyghur ethnic minority.

The German automaker has come under fire for operating in Xinjiang, a remote western region that borders Central Asia. The US government has blocked imports from Xinjiang unless it can be proven that the products were not made with forced labour.

The auditor, Loening  Human Rights and Responsible Business, conducted 40 interviews and was able to inspect the factory freely, said Markus Loening, a former German human rights commissioner who founded the consultancy.

We could not find any indications or evidence of forced labour among the employees, he said in remarks provided by Volkswagen from a media briefing in Germany on Tuesday.

China launched a harsh crackdown in Xinjiang around 2017 in response to a series of bombings, knifings and other attacks by Uyghurs unhappy with the communist-ruled government's policies toward their ethnic group. Analysts estimate that a million or more people have been detained in what China has called vocational training and education centres.

The government denies any human rights violations and says the measures successfully eliminated a terrorist threat.

The Volkswagen plant in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, is no longer assembling vehicles and functions only as a distribution hub. About 10,000 vehicles a year undergo quality checks before they are delivered to dealers in the region.

The number of workers has fallen to 197 from about 650 between 2015 and 2019, Volkswagen said. Of the total, 47 are Uyghurs and 150 are from China's Han majority.

The employees are paid above average and have little to do, Loening said.

A law firm in Shenzhen, an industrial hub in eastern China, carried out the audit, accompanied by staff from Loening. The factory is owned by Volkswagen's joint venture with SAIC Motor, a major Chinese automaker.

Loening acknowledged the difficulty of conducting audits in China. The situation in China and Xinjiang and the challenges in collecting data for audits are well known," he said. (AP)



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Washington, Dec 6 (AP) Air Force Special Operations Command said on Tuesday it has recovered the remains of six of the eight service members who were lost when their Osprey crashed off the coast of Japan last week, adding it is now focused on recovering the two bodies still missing and the aircraft debris.

The CV-22B Osprey crashed on November 29 during a training mission. Ospreys have had a number of crashes, including in Japan, where they are used at US and Japanese military bases, and the latest has rekindled safety concerns.

Three bodies were recovered from the sunken wreckage, and a total of six of the eight crew members' remains that had been located have now been recovered, the Air Force said. The search continues for the remains of the two crew members still unaccounted for, it added.

The depth of sorrow is immeasurable," Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, who heads Air Force Special Operations Command, said in a statement announcing the names of the crew. The honorable service of these eight airmen to this great nation will never be forgotten, as they are now among the giants who shape our history.

President Joe Biden said he and first lady Jill Biden were heartbroken by the loss.

We owe them everything, Biden said in a statement. Jill and I are praying for the families and friends who lost a loved one in this terrible accident.

The lost crew members were:

US Air Force Maj. Jeffrey T. Hoernemann, 32, of Andover, Minnesota, was a CV-22 instructor pilot and officer in charge of training, assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan.

US Air Force Maj. Eric V. Spendlove, 36, of St. George, Utah, was a residency trained flight surgeon and medical operations flight commander assigned to the 1st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Kadena Air Base, Japan.

US Air Force Maj. Luke A. Unrath, 34, of Riverside, California, was a CV-22 pilot and flight commander assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan.

US Air Force Capt. Terrell K. Brayman, 32, of Pittsford, New York, was a CV-22 pilot and flight commander assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan.

US Air Force Tech. Sgt. Zachary E. Lavoy, 33, of Oviedo, Florida, was a medical operations flight chief assigned to the 1st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Kadena Air Base, Japan.

US Air Force Staff Sgt. Jake M. Turnage, 25, of Kennesaw, Georgia, was a flight engineer assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan.

US Air Force Senior Airman Brian K. Johnson, 32, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, was a flight engineer assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan.

US Air Force Staff Sgt. Jacob Jake M. Galliher, 24, was a native of Pittsfield, Mass. His remains were the first to be found.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida sent a message to Biden, offering his heartfelt condolences to the families of those who were lost and to the American people and his thanks for their dedication away from home for the peace and stability of Japan and the region.

The US-made Osprey is a hybrid aircraft that takes off and lands like a helicopter but can rotate its propellers forward and cruise much faster, like an airplane, during flight.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Japan has suspended all flights of its own fleet of 14 Ospreys. Japanese officials say they have asked the US military to resume Osprey flights only after ensuring their safety. The Pentagon said no such formal request has been made and that the US military is continuing to fly 24 MV-22s, the Marine version of Ospreys, deployed on the southern Japanese island of Okinawa.

In Tokyo, Defence Ministry Press Secretary Akira Mogi said Tuesday that deployment of Ospreys is key to a defence buildup in southwestern Japan due to current regional security concerns but acknowledged the need to address the residents' safety worries rekindled by the crash.

Mogi said Japanese defence officials are examining information shared by the US to determine if the US military responses are adequate, but he added that the shared information so far is insufficient. We need further explanation, information and a process to verify that," he said.

Parts of the wreckage have been collected by Japanese vessels and are being handed over to the US military for examination.

Adm. Ryo Sakai, chief of staff of the Maritime Self-Defence Force, or Japan's navy, pledged Japan's continued support for the search and recovery. (AP)

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Jerusalem, Dec 6 (AP) Israel's widening air and ground offensive in southern Gaza has displaced tens of thousands more Palestinians and worsened the territory's dire humanitarian conditions, with the fighting preventing distribution of food, water and medicine outside a tiny sliver of southern Gaza and new military evacuation orders squeezing people into ever-smaller areas of the south.

The United Nations said 1.87 million people  more than 80 per cent of Gaza's population  have been driven from their homes since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, triggered by the deadly October 7 Hamas assault on southern Israel. The U.N. also says that all telecom services have been shut down due to cuts in the main fibre routes.

On Tuesday, Israel's military entered Khan Younis, Gaza's second-largest city, in its pursuit to wipe out the territory's Hamas rulers. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the military must retain open-ended security control over the Gaza Strip long after the war ends. Around 1,200 people have died on the Israeli side, mainly civilians, killed during Hamas' October 7 attack.

The Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said the death toll in the territory has surpassed 16,200, with more than 42,000 wounded. The ministry does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths, but said 70 per cent of the dead were women and children.

Currently:

 Widespread sexual and gender-based crimes were committed during Hamas' October 7 attack, a rights group says. Biden calls on the world to condemn Hamas for the reported brutalities.

 Generation after generation, Israeli prison marks a rite of passage for Palestinian boys.

 In a rare action against Israel, the U.S. says extremist West Bank settlers will be barred from America.

 The presidents of Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania and MIT defend actions in combatting antisemitism on campus.

 The U.N.'s food agency stops deliveries to millions in Yemen areas controlled by Houthi rebels.



Here's what's happening in the war:

UN HUMAN RIGHTS CHIEF URGES IMMEDIATE CEASE-FIRE

The U.N. human rights chief is demanding that the international community immediately push with one voice for a cease-fire in Gaza as the plight of civilians deepens.

Palestinians in Gaza are living in utter, deepening horror, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said at a news conference in Geneva. As an immediate step, I call for an urgent cessation of hostilities and the release of all hostages.

He added: The international community needs to insist with one voice on a cease-fire, immediately, on human rights and humanitarian grounds.

Turk said that, as more information emerges on allegations of sexual violence by members of Hamas and other Palestinian groups in their attack on Israel in October, it is painfully clear that these attacks need to be fully investigated to ensure justice for the victims.

While investigators are trying to determine the scope of the sexual assaults, Israel's government is accusing the international community, particularly the U.N., of ignoring the pain of Israeli victims.

Turk said he asked Israeli authorities in October for permission to deploy a team to investigate the attacks on Israelis, and has repeated the request, but hasn't received a response. We need to ensure that justice is served, because that's what we owe the victims, he said.

Turk also expressed grave concern regarding dehumanizing and inciteful statements made by current and former high-level Israeli officials, as well as Hamas figures, without citing specific comments or people.

History has shown us where this kind of language can lead, he said. This is not just unacceptable, but a competent court may view such statements, in the circumstances in which they were made, as incitement to atrocity crimes.



ERDOGAN WARNS ISRAEL NOT TO ATTACK HAMAS ON TURKISH SOIL

ANKARA (Turkey)  Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned Israel that there would be serious consequences if Israel pressed ahead with a threat to attack Hamas officials on Turkish soil. The Turkish leader also said his country has petitioned the International Criminal Court for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials to be prosecuted for alleged war crimes in Gaza.

His comments  made Tuesday and reported by Turkish media on Wednesday  echoed warnings from other Turkish officials in response to the head of Israel's domestic security agency, Shin Bet, who said in an audio recording that his organization is prepared to destroy Hamas in every place, including in Lebanon, Turkey and Qatar.

Erdogan also said thousands of lawyers from various countries were employed to petition the ICC.

We brought the war crimes committed in Gaza to the court's agenda and we will be following up on this, Erdogan said. Netanyahu will not be able to evade paying the penalty for his actions. Sooner or later, he will be tried and will pay the price for the war crimes he committed.



GAZA'S HEALTH MINISTRY SAYS THE WAR DEATH TOLL IS MORE THAN 16,200

KHAN YOUNIS (Gaza Strip)  The Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza says 16,248 Palestinians have been killed and more than 42,000 wounded since the Israel-Hamas war broke out two months ago.

The ministry said Tuesday evening that the death toll included more than 6,000 children and more than 4,000 women. The ministry does not differentiate between civilians and combatants.

The figures show a sharp rise in deaths since a weeklong truce between Israel and Hamas collapsed on December 1. Since the resumption of fighting Friday, more than 1,000 Palestinians were killed, according to the Health Ministry.

The United States had urged Israel to do more to protect Palestinian civilians as its blistering air and ground campaign shifted to southern Gaza, particularly in and around Khan Younis, the territory's second largest city. (AP) NPK

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Washington, Dec 6 (PTI) The United States has said it will wait to see the results of the investigation announced by India concerning allegations of the involvement of an Indian official in a plot to assassinate a separatist Sikh leader in the US.

"We have noted at the most senior levels of this government  the secretary of state has raised this directly with his foreign counterpart that we take this issue very seriously. They told us they would conduct an investigation," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters at his daily news conference on Tuesday.

"They have publicly announced an investigation. Now, we will wait to see the results of the investigation...," Miller said in response to a question.

American prosecutors have linked an Indian official to a man charged with conspiring to assassinate Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on US soil.

India has described it as a "matter of concern" and asserted that follow-up action will be taken based on findings of a panel investigating the allegations.

The US, Miller said, has also urged India to cooperate with Canada's investigation of allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of a Canadian national.
London, Dec 6 (PTI) Britains former prime minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday said he is deeply sorry for the pain and the loss caused by COVID-19 as he gave his evidence to the ongoing official public inquiry into the governments handling of the pandemic which hit the country in early 2020.

Johnson, who was in charge as the prime minister of the day, admitted he should have twigged the widespread health impact of coronavirus but insisted he had to take very, very difficult decisions as the crisis was fast unfolding. Inquiry chair Baroness Heather Hallett, who has been hearing evidence in London since June, had to get a protester removed from the room as they held up a poster reading: "The dead can't hear your apologies.

I am deeply sorry for the pain and the loss and the suffering of those victims and their families, said Johnson, after swearing on the Bible for his evidence.

I do hope that this inquiry will help to get the answers to the very difficult questions that those victims and those families are rightly asking so that we can protect ourselves better, help each other to protect ourselves better and prevent further suffering, he said.

The former PM was reminded by barrister Hugo Keith of the more than 230,000 COVID-linked deaths in the country as a shocking figure and a terrible loss of life. Johnson acknowledged that was the core of the tragedy and that inevitably...we may have made mistakes.

The tragedy is that we were operating on a fallacious, inductive logic about previous reasonable worst case scenarios, and this one and this was the one where I am afraid the worst predictions turned out to be correct, he told the inquiry.

I think we were doing the best we could at the time, given what we knew, given the information we had at the time, I think we were doing our level best. Were there things that we should have done differently? Unquestionably, he said.

He revealed that the government underestimated the scale and pace of the challenge, thinking the peak of the virus would come in May or June 2020. Johnson also said he took responsibility for the speed of the government's response to the pandemic, the lockdown decisions and their timelines.

His evidence is expected to last for two days and follows the evidence of his Cabinet colleagues from the time, former health secretary Matt Hancock and levelling up secretary Michael Gove. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who was chancellor of the exchequer at the time, is expected to give his evidence in the coming weeks.
Washington, Dec 6 (AP) The Justice Department on Wednesday said it has filed war crime charges against four members of the Russian military accused of abducting and torturing an American during the invasion of Ukraine in a case that's the first of its kind.

The four Russians are accused of kidnapping the American from his home in a Ukrainian village in 2022. The American was beaten and interrogated while being held for 10 days at a Russian military compound, before eventually being evacuated with his wife, who is Ukrainian, US authorities said.

The American told federal agents who had travelled to Ukraine last year as part of an investigation that the Russian soldiers had abducted him, stripped him naked, pointed a gun at his head and badly beaten him, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said.

The evidence gathered by our agents speaks to the brutality, criminality, and depravity of Russia's invasion, Mayorkas said.

The case marks the first time the US has filed war crime charges in the victimisation of an American, he said.

Homeland Security and FBI investigators interviewed the American, his family and others who were around the village of Mylove around the time of the kidnapping to identify the four Russians, Mayorkas said.

Attorney General Merrick Garland has been outspoken on war crimes in Ukraine since Russia's invasion began in February 2022.

Independent human rights experts backed by the US have said they've found continued evidence of war crimes committed by Russian forces, including torture that ended in death and rape of women aged up to 83 years old.

The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin in March for war crimes, accusing him of personal responsibility for the abductions of children from Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia doesn't recognise the ICC and considers its decisions "legally void. He called the court's move outrageous and unacceptable.

The United States is not a member of the ICC, but the Justice Department has been cooperating with it and supporting Ukrainian prosecutors as they carry out their own war crime investigations.

The charges carry mostly symbolic significance for the moment given the unclear prospects that any of the four defendants would ever be brought to an American courtroom to face justice. They come as the Biden administration, in an effort to show continued support for Ukraine during a separate war between Israel and Hamas, is pressing Congress to approve military and economic aid for Kyiv's war effort.

The US and Russia do not have an extradition treaty, but the Justice Department has brought repeated criminal cases against Russian nationals, most notably for cyber crimes and including for interference in the 2016 presidential election. In some of those cases, the defendants have been taken into custody by American officials, such as when they've travelled outside Russia. (AP) ZH

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Lahore, Dec 6 (PTI) At a meeting held for the first time in 15 years, former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday worked out a seat-sharing arrangement with leaders of a faction of his political party led by another former prime minister Chaudhry Shujat for both provincial and national assembly polls.

The general elections are to be held on February 8.

Sharif the three-time former prime minister  returned to the country on October 21 ending his self-imposed four-year exile in London to lead his party the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) in the elections.

The PML-N and Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid's (PML-Q) have agreed on a seat adjustment for both national and provincial assembly elections after a meeting between former prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday met held a meeting with his counterpart Chaudhry Shujat, the first in 15 years, a report in newspaper The News International said.

Quoting sources, the report said, The two parties have agreed on seat adjustment for two National Assembly and three Punjab Assembly constituencies.

The meeting, which lasted for about 40 minutes, between the PML-N and PML-Q supremos discussed the possibility of forging an electoral alliance and decided to form separate committees to finalise matters regarding the alliance, sources said.

Earlier on December 4, Sharif met with the chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) Maulana Fazlur Rehman here and discussed strategising a seat adjustment formula for the upcoming general elections.

The PML-N said in a post on X after the meeting that the two leaders also discussed political cooperation.

On Wednesday, Sharif, 73, was accompanied by his partys president and younger brother Shehbaz, his daughter Maryam Nawaz and other party leaders for the meeting held at Shujaats residence here. The PML-Q leaders included Chaudhry Wajahat Hussain, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, and Shafay Hussain, the newspaper said.

The sources also said that the two parties will enter seat adjustment in the constituencies of PML-Q leader Tariq Bashir Cheema and Salik and added that Shafays provincial assembly constituency is also part of the electoral agreement.

Neither party issued any official statement, however, PML-Ns official X handle tweeted a one-minute video giving details about the meeting. Muhammad Nawaz Sharif assessed the mood of Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain and expressed his best wishes for him, thus ending the partys post on X.

The meeting comes as political activity is on the rise as parties are running election campaigns and forging electoral alliances in a bid to strengthen their position during the elections.

Earlier, the PML-N supremo succeeded in wooing the electables from Balochistan to join his party ranks and also forged an electoral alliance with Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), The News International said.

Since returning to the country, the PML-N chief has secured major relief from courts in corruption cases that his party believed were filed for political victimisation by the previous government led by Imran Khan, it added.
Cairo, Dec 6 (AP) A cargo ship broke down in Egypt's Suez Canal on Wednesday and crashed into a bridge over the crucial waterway, authorities said, adding that the incident did not disrupt traffic through the canal.

Adm. Ossama Rabei, head of the Suez Canal Authority, said the Singapore-flagged One Orpheus went off course after its rudder broke down before ploughing into the Mansi Bridge, near the port city of Ismailia. The extent of the damage to both the ship and the bridge is unclear.

The incident happened in a newly expanded section of the waterway, where there are two separate shipping lanes, Rabei said in a statement issued by the authority.

He said four tugboats have been dispatched to move the cargo ship, which was traveling north through the canal, on its way from Singapore to the Netherlands. Following the incident, all ships started using the second, original shipping lane.

The incident was the latest of several such accidents in the crucial waterway. A number of ships have either run aground or broken down in the Suez Canal over the past few years.

In August, two tankers carrying oil products and liquefied natural gas collided in a single-lane stretch of the canal, briefly disrupting traffic. In March 2021, the large Ever Green became wedged in a single lane stretch of the canal, blocking the waterway for six days and disrupting global trade.

Opened in 1869, the Suez Canal provides a crucial link for oil, natural gas and cargo. About 10% of world trade flows through the canal, a major source of foreign currency for the Egyptian government.

In 2015, President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi's government completed a major expansion of the canal  which included the second shipping lane  allowing it to accommodate the world's largest vessels. (AP) ZH

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Dubai, Dec 6 (AP) Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday will visit both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as Dubai hosts the United Nations' COP28 climate talks  despite facing an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court over the war in Ukraine.

Neither Saudi Arabia nor the UAE has signed the ICC founding treaty, meaning they don't face any obligation to detain Putin over the warrant accusing him of being personally responsible for the abductions of children from Ukraine during his war on the country.

However, the visit comes as armed UN police patrol a portion of Dubai's Expo City now considered international territory for the talks, again highlighting the Emirates' expansive business ties to Russia that have exploded in the time since grinding Western sanctions have targeted Moscow.

A readout on Putin's trip from the state-run Tass news agency published early Wednesday offered no suggestion Putin might come to the COP28 site, instead quoting Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov saying he'd land and have a meeting at the palace and one-on-one talks with Emirati leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The visit comes after COP28 saw a parade of Western leaders including US Vice President Kamala Harris, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and others backing Ukraine speak at the summit. So did Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, long a Putin ally.

The UN's Framework Convention on Climate Change, which oversees COP summits, did not immediately respond to a request for comment about Putin's visit.

The Emirati organisation committee for COP28 and the Emirati Foreign Ministry similarly did not immediately respond to questions. The UAE repeatedly feted the now-deposed Sudanese leader Omar al-Bashir in the past despite an ICC warrant seeking his arrest over charges of genocide and crimes against humanity in Darfur.

Putin last visited the UAE in 2019, receiving a warm welcome from Sheikh Mohammed, then the crown prince of Abu Dhabi. In the time since, however, the world has greatly changed.

The Russian president isolated himself during the coronavirus pandemic. He launched an invasion targeting Ukraine in February 2022, a grinding war that continues on today and has been a topic for Ukrainian diplomats at the COP28 talks.

Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war remains a major concern for the Mideast, particularly the UAE, which reached a diplomatic recognition with Israel in 2020. Recent attacks by Yemen's Iranian-backed Houthi rebels also threatens commercial shipping in the Red Sea as Iran's nuclear program continues it rapid advances since the collapse of the 2016 nuclear deal.

Putin is scheduled to meet with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Thursday for what Ushakov has described as a rather lengthy conversation. The two countries have been discussing ways to get around the Western sanctions targeting them.

Putin will travel onto Saudi Arabia and meet with powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the one-day trip, Ushakov said. Those discussions likely will focus on Moscow's other major concern in the Middle East  oil.

Russia is part of OPEC+, which is a group of cartel members and other nations that have managed production to try and boost crude oil prices. Last week, the group expanded some output cuts into next year and brought up-and-coming oil supplier Brazil into the fold. Benchmark Brent crude traded Wednesday around $77 a barrel, down from nearly USD 100 in September, over concerns about a weakening economy worldwide. (AP)

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Mumbai, Dec 5 (PTI) A 57-year-old Mumbai police constable was nabbed by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) while allegedly taking a bribe of Rs 10,000 from a man for not filing a criminal case against him, an official said on Tuesday.

The constable is posted at the Mankhurd Police Station in suburban Mumbai.

The complainant and his friend had a scuffle with a bar manager on November 27. The next day, the accused constable called the complainant and told him the manager had lodged a case against him, said the official.

To avoid any criminal case against him, the constable demanded Rs 20,000 as a bribe from the complainant and later settled for Rs 10,000, he said.

The man approached the ACB and lodged complaint against the constable.

After verification of the complaint, ACB officials laid a trap at the Mankhurd Police Station and apprehended the constable while accepting the bribe amount, he said.
Nagpur, Dec 6 (PTI) Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday rebutted the Opposition's reasons for not attending the customary tea party organised by the state government on the eve of the winter session of the state legislature, and said it did not raise any issue related to the Vidarbha and Marathwada regions.

The session is set to start in Nagpur, Maharashtra's second capital, from Thursday.

The Opposition forgot that the issues of Vidarbha and Marathwada are discussed prominently during the winter session, but there was no mention of issues of these regions in the letter sent by Leader of Opposition in the assembly Vijay Wadettiwar and others declining the tea-party invitation, Fadnavis said.

The letter spoke about rising debt of the state, but the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Maharashtra was Rs 16 lakh crore in 2013-14 and today it stands at Rs 35 lakh crore, he noted.

No other state has as balanced an economy as Maharashtra, said Fadnavis.

He also questioned the figures from the National Crimes Records Bureau (NCRB) report cited by Wadettiwar while expressing concern about the rise in crime in the state.

Maharashtra is in the 8th position in crime rate whereas the Congress leader claimed it was in the second place, Fadnavis said.

The state is in the 17th position in terms of murder cases and seventh position in crime against women, he said.

The state is in the 12th position in terms of rape cases and 7th in kidnapping cases, the home minister said, adding that the Opposition should learn how to read an NCRB report.

As to the objection about the short duration of the winter session in Nagpur, Fadnavis said when the Maha Vikas Aghadi government was in power, the session was first delayed citing the COVID-19 pandemic and no session was held in Nagpur. Now the same people are questioning the duration of this session, he said.

The Opposition can raise as many issues concerning the people of Maharashtra as it can and the government will give them ample time during the session, the deputy CM said.
Rajgarh (MP), Dec 6 (PTI) A four-year-old girl who fell into a borewell in Madhya Pradeshs Rajgarh district on Tuesday died in a hospital in Bhopal, a few hours after her rescue early on Wednesday, a senior official said.



The child, identified as Mahi, was rescued alive around 2.45 am and was rushed to the Civil Hospital at Pachore, but her condition deteriorated en route, the official said.

The girl was then taken to the state-run Hamidia Hospital in Bhopal, about 70 km away, where she died during treatment around 6 am, Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr Kiran Wadia said.

The body will be handed over to the childs relatives after autopsy, she said.

Mahi fell into an open borewell in a field on Tuesday evening and was rescued by a team of experts who dug a parallel pit to a depth of about 25 feet.

She was stuck at 22 feet, and after connecting the two pits, she was rescued by the experts and rushed to the hospital, Rajgarh Superintendent of Police Dharmaraj Meena said.

The incident took place at Pipliya Rasoda village under Boda police station limits, he said.

Personnel from the State Disaster Emergency Response Force (SDERF) had reached the spot and arrangements were made to provide oxygen inside the borewell shaft, he said.

Earlier, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had directed officials to send teams of SDERF, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to the site and asked the district administration to help in the rescue operation.
Aizawl, Dec 6 (PTI) Mizoram registered the third lowest murder cases in the country last year, according to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data.

The northeastern state recorded 31 murder cases in 2022, after Sikkim (9) and Nagaland (21).

The murder rate in the state was 2.5, while the chargesheet filing rate stood at 95.7, the NCBR data said.

There were 14 blind murders or murders with no motive known and six murders due to dispute.

The state reported 28 murder cases in 2020 and 24 in 2021.

A total of 28,522 FIRs of murder were registered in 2022 across the country, the NCRB data said.

Uttar Pradesh saw the highest number of such FIRs at 3,491 followed by Bihar (2,930) and Maharashtra (2,295).
Kolkata, Dec 6 (PTI) As Australia takes centre stage at the 29th Kolkata International Film Festival as the 'Special Feature Country', its consul general in Kolkata Rowan Ainsworth on Wednesday said the recent film co-production agreement between Australia and India will be a collaboration to watch out for in the coming days.

Ainsworth told PTI that both the countries have vibrant film industries and the collaboration promises to redefine the landscape of the film industries.

"There are lots of talents in both countries. The agreement gives rise to the possibility of more co-productions," she said.

She said the pact "will not be limited to films only, but any sort of audio-visual productions."

Award-winning director Bruce Beresford, whose 'Driving Miss Daisy' won the Oscar for Best Picture in 1989, said, "People of the city are very friendly."

Beresford said he loved the bouquet of films in KIFF as "there are films from America, England, Japan, France, Germany, India and elsewhere."

Asked if he has plans to shoot a film here, the 83-year old filmmaker said, "I don't have plans at the moment but I will think about it certainly in future."

Critically acclaimed Bengali director Arindam Sil, who was also present, told PTI, "It will be great if the person who made 'Driving Miss Daisy' makes a film again and more so, if it is made in Kolkata."

"Australia and India, united by a rich tapestry of history and tradition, find common ground in the language of cinema, a universal medium that transcends borders. The inclusion of Australia as the Special Feature Country emphasises the shared commitment to fostering cultural understanding and strengthening ties through the art of storytelling," Ainsworth said.

A rich bouquet of contemporary films from Australia like 'The Dry' (2020) 'My Name Is Gulpilil' (2021), Shayda (2023), The Survival of Kindness (2022), among others, will be screened at the festival.
Guwahati, Dec 6 (PTI) A man arrested for alleged criminal activities was shot at and injured by police while he was trying to escape from their custody in Assam's Nagaon district on Wednesday, an officer said.

The man was arrested on Tuesday for his alleged involvement in various cases of dacoity and looting by police in Rupahihat.

The police had taken him to a place in Kaliabor to recover arms and after a pistol was recovered, the accused opened fire at the police with the recovered arms.

The police retaliated and the accused received bullet injuries in both the legs, the officer said.

The accused, identified as Umar Faruk, was initially admitted to the Nagaon Civil Hospital and later shifted to the Gauhati Medical College for further treatment.
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday will visit both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as Dubai hosts the United Nations' COP28 climate talks  despite facing an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court over the war in Ukraine.

Neither Saudi Arabia nor the UAE has signed the ICC founding treaty, meaning they don't face any obligation to detain Putin over the warrant accusing him of being personally responsible for the abductions of children from Ukraine during his war on the country.

However, the visit comes as armed U.N. police patrol a portion of Dubai's Expo City now considered international territory for the talks, again highlighting the Emirates' expansive business ties to Russia that have exploded in the time since grinding Western sanctions have targeted Moscow.

A readout on Putin's trip from the state-run Tass news agency published early Wednesday offered no suggestion Putin might come to the COP28 site, instead quoting Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov saying he'd land and have a meeting at the palace and one-on-one talks with Emirati leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The visit comes after COP28 saw a parade of Western leaders including U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and others backing Ukraine speak at the summit. So did Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, long a Putin ally.

The U.N.'s Framework Convention on Climate Change, which oversees COP summits, did not immediately respond to a request for comment about Putin's visit.

The Emirati organization committee for COP28 referred questions to the UAE's Foreign Ministry, which did not immediately respond.

Putin last visited the UAE in 2019, receiving a warm welcome from Sheikh Mohammed, then the crown prince of Abu Dhabi. In the time since, however, the world has greatly changed.

The Russian president isolated himself during the coronavirus pandemic. He launched an invasion targeting Ukraine in February 2022, a grinding war that continues today and has been a topic for Ukrainian diplomats at the COP28 talks.

Meanwhile, the Israeli war on Gaza remains a major concern for the Mideast. Recent attacks by Yemen's Iranian-backed Houthi rebels also threaten commercial shipping in the Red Sea as Iran's nuclear program continues its rapid advances since the collapse of the 2016 nuclear deal.

Putin is scheduled to meet with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Thursday for what Ushakov has described as a rather lengthy conversation. The two countries have been discussing ways to get around the Western sanctions targeting them.

Putin will travel to Saudi Arabia and meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the one-day trip, Ushakov said. Those discussions likely will focus on Moscow's other major concern in the Middle East  oil.

Russia is part of OPEC+, which is a group of cartel members and other nations that have managed production to try and boost crude oil prices. Last week, the group expanded some output cuts into next year and brought up-and-coming oil supplier Brazil into the fold. Benchmark Brent crude traded Wednesday around $77 a barrel, down from nearly $100 in September, over concerns about a weakening economy worldwide.

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Kolkata, Dec 6 (PTI) A four-day international conference on nephrology will be held in Kolkata from December 14 in a bid to address challenges faced by patients suffering from kidney-related ailments in the country and overseas, an official said on Wednesday.

Around 200 nephrologists, including 12 experts - presidents of the International Society of Nephrology, American Society of Nephrology, besides former presidents of the UK Renal Association and Canadian Society of Nephrology, will participate in the programme.

Representatives of SAARC countries and the Indian Society of Nephrology will also take part in the Indian Society of Nephrology Conference.

Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka are SAARC countries.

The Indian Society of Nephrology will hold the 53rd annual conference in Kolkata from December 14, the official said.

"This conference aims at highlighting the importance of nephrologists to address the problem of chronic kidney diseases at the grassroots level, and to ensure that scientific advances reach patients in remote areas," Dr Saubhik Surai, organising secretary of the body, said.

The 52nd edition of the conference was held in Pune.
Agartala, Dec 6 (PTI) To boost regional air connectivity, private carrier SpiceJet will soon introduce direct flights on Agartala-Jorhat route, an official said here on Thursday.

The development comes after Tripura Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury sought Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia's intervention for the introduction of flight services on two routes- Agartala (Tripura)-Jorhat (Assam) and Agartala-Hyderabad (Telangana).

"In a letter addressed to Chowdhury, the union minister on November 30 said Jorhat-Agartala and Agartala-Jorhat flight service has been awarded to Spicejet under the UDAN scheme. The flight operation on the route will be starting shortly," said the official quoting the letter.

The regional connectivity scheme - UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) - is a government-backed initiative to improve infrastructure and connectivity in India, especially in remote and underserved regions.

In response to the letter, Scindia also said the Hydrabad-Agartala-Hyderabad flight service was awarded to private carrier IndiGo and the matter will be taken up again with the airline for introducing the service, the official added.

Flight services to cities like Kolkata, Bengaluru, Delhi, Guwahati, Imphal and Shillong are now available from Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport here.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid tributes to B R Ambedkar on his death anniversary, saying he dedicated his life to the welfare of the exploited and deprived.

Besides being the architect of the Constitution, he was an immortal champion of social harmony, Modi said of Ambedkar, who came from a Dalit family and rose to become one of the most important figures in Indian politics with his championing of the cause of the underprivileged.

Recognition of his ideas has grown over the years since his demise in 1956 as leaders, especially those with a Dalit background, have rallied Scheduled Castes, an influential voting bloc, and other weaker sections around Ambedkar's push for education, constitutional agitation and consolidation for their empowerment.
Jaipur, Dec 6 (PTI) Markets remained closed in Jaipur and some other districts of Rajasthan on Wednesday after a bandh call by the Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena to protest the killing of its chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi.

Director General of Police Umesh Mishra formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT), to be headed by Additional Director General (Crime) Dinesh MN, to probe the killing while a cash reward of Rs 5 lakh for information leading to the arrest of the two accused was also announced.

The Rajasthan Police also carried out searches to nab the two accused who allegedly killed Gogamedi for "backing" the enemies of gangster Rohit Godara -- said to be linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang -- who has taken responsibility for the murder in a Facebook post.

Gogamedi was shot dead in the living room of his house here on Tuesday.

Markets remained closed in Jaipur, Bundi, Ajmer, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh and some other districts while a mass rally was taken out in Udaipur and a demonstration was held at the collectorate circle amid heavy deployment of police.

The supporters of Gogamedi had given a Jaipur bandh call and gathered in the Khatipura area in the morning from where they moved to other parts of the city asking shopkeepers to shut their establishments.

There was no movement of public transport in the capital city and the services of roadways buses were also affected, officials said.

Khatipura road in Jaipur was blocked while Rajput community members in large numbers were sitting outside the Metro Mass Hospital in the Mansarovar area where Gogamedi's body is kept.

Similar protests took place in Jodhpur and Udaipur as well but remained peaceful. The effects of the bandh call were seen in other districts too as people refrained from venturing out.

Governor Kalraj Mishra summoned Chief Secretary Usha Sharma, DGP Mishra, Jaipur Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph and other officials to review the situation.

The governor told the officials to ensure that those behind the killing are arrested soon and asked them to stay alert while asserting that no laxity at any level will be tolerated, according to a Raj Bhawan spokesperson.

Earlier, Joseph told PTI that the accused who shot dead Gogamedi as well as Naveen Singh Shekhawat, who accompanied them to the Rajput leader's residence on Tuesday, have been identified and efforts are being made to trace them.

"One of the accused is from Haryana and the other from Rajasthan, he said.

Joseph said the accused secured access to Gogamedi's house through Shekhawat.

It is a matter of investigation whether Shekhawat, who used to run a cloth shop, was aware of the intentions of the two accused, he said.

The chief secretary informed the governor in the meeting that the situation is being monitored by district collectors.

Mahipal Singh Makrana, national president of Shri Rajput Karni Sena, demanded the removal of the state police chief for failing to provide security to Gogamedi.

"There was intelligence input about the murder of Sukhdev Gogamedi from Punjab Police but the Rajasthan Police did not provide him security. This is a clear failure of the police. The DG should be removed and action must be taken against the negligent police officials," he told PTI.

Makrana said there is huge resentment in the Rajput community which will be forced to hold protests across the country if the accused are not caught soon.

He said that not only the Rajput community but the 'Sarv Samaj' is agitated over the incident.

Gogamedi's supporters have demanded compensation of Rs 11 crore for the family of the slain leader.

"The incident makes it clear that there is 'Jungle Raj' (law of jungle) in Rajasthan. The accused should be killed in an encounter, one of the protesters said.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) does not differentiate between India and Bharat, and duly acknowledges the spirit as enshrined in the Constitution that recognises both, according to the Union Education Ministry.

This information was shared by Union Minister of State for Education Annapurna Devi in a written reply to a question asked by CPI(M) member Elamaram Kareem in the Rajya Sabha regarding an NCERT panel's recommendation to replace the country's name "India" with "Bharat" in school textbooks.

"Article 1 of the Constitution of India states that 'India', that is Bharat, shall be a Union of States'. India's Constitution recognises both 'India' and 'Bharat' as the official names of the country which can be used interchangeably. NCERT duly acknowledges this spirit as enshrined in our Constitution and does not differentiate between the two," she said.

The minister further said the country is collectively moving away from the colonial mindset and encourages the usage of the words in 'Bharatiya Bhasha' (Indian languages).

"NCERT, an autonomous body under the aegis of the Ministry of Education involved in preparation of school curriculum and textbooks, will also do its best in furthering the same," the minister said.

A high-level committee for social sciences constituted by the NCERT to revise the school curriculum had in October recommended that "India" should be replaced with "Bharat" in school textbooks for all classes. The NCERT had said it was yet to take a call on the recommendations.

The name "Bharat" was first used officially when the government 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 summit in New Delhi also read "Bharat".

The NCERT is revising the curriculum of the school textbooks in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The council recently constituted a 19-member National Syllabus and Teaching Learning Material Committee (NSTC) to finalise the curriculum, textbooks and learning material for these classes.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) Congress MP Manish Tewari on Wednesday said his question in the Lok Sabha on what the government was doing to ensure the release of eight former naval personnel, who have been sentenced to death in Qatar, has been "disallowed", and termed the action "preposterous".

Speaking outside Parliament, Tewari said it is most unfortunate that the starred question regarding what the government of India was doing to ensure the release of the former naval personnel has been disallowed.

"The question has been disallowed on grounds on national security. This is absolutely preposterous and that is why I have been tabling an adjournment motion and giving a Zero Hour (notice) on a daily basis on the fate of these eight (former) Navy personnel, who have been brutally tortured, held in illegal custody and solitary confinement. The government should tell the House what are they doing to get them released," the Lok Sabha MP from Punjab said.

It is learnt that the question was disallowed on the basis of a rule which states that information will not be sought about matters "which are in their nature secret, such as composition of Cabinet Committees, Cabinet discussions, or advice given to the President in relation to any matter in respect of which there is a constitutional, statutory or conventional obligation not to disclose information".

Congress' leader in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Monday had demanded that the government "exhaust every resource" to bring back the eight former naval personnel who were handed death sentences by a court in Qatar.

The Indian nationals were handed the death sentence by Qatar's Court of First Instance on October 26. India described the ruling as "deeply" shocking and vowed to explore all legal options in the case.

An appeal has already been filed against the death sentence and a higher court in Qatar has admitted the plea. The appeal has been filed by the legal team of the detained Indian nationals.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) Floor leaders of 17 parties of the INDIA opposition bloc on Wednesday met at the residence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and discussed steps to improve coordination in Parliament to take on the BJP.

It was decided at the meeting that the senior leadership would meet soon and the date will be announced in a day or two.

Kharge said in a post on X that a parliamentary strategy meeting of like-minded parties of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha floor leaders was held at 10, Rajaji Marg.

"We will take up issues of the people in the Parliament in the remaining part of this session to make the government accountable.

"A date for meeting of INDIA parties will soon be fixed, in consultation with the leaders of all parties. Judega Bharat, Jeetega INDIA," he said on X.

The Congress president had invited the leaders over dinner and another meeting would be held in the third week of December that will be attended by top leaders including some chief ministers from the opposition parties.

Congress leader and whip in Rajya Sabha Naseer Hussain said it was a meeting of floor leaders of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha belonging to INDIA bloc constituents.

The meeting is held every day in the morning but could not take place today, so this meeting was planned at Kharge's residence in the evening.

"The meeting was presided over by LoP Kharge and Rahul Gandhi. A number of issues of Parliament and upcoming bills were discussed. There was also a discussion about the government's attitude.

"It was also decided that a meeting of INDIA party leaders will take place soon and we will announce the date in a day or two," Hussain told reporters after the meeting.

Asked about the absence of TMC and Shiv Sena, Hussain said they had already informed that they would not be able to attend. "It happens daily that some parties are not able to participate due to some compulsion," he said.

Among Congress leaders present at Kharge's residence were its leader in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury and deputy leader in Rajya Sabha Pramod Tiwari, besides general secretaries K C Venugopal and Jairam Ramesh.

The opposition leaders present at the meeting included Mahua Majhi of JMM, Vaiko of MDMK, N K Premchandran (RSP), Binoy Viswam (CPI), Lalan Singh of JDU, Ram Gopal Yadav and ST Hasan of SP, Jayant Chaudhary of RLD.

Besides, Vandana Chavan of NCP, Raghav Chadha of AAP, Tiruchi Siva of DMK and Congress leaders Gaurav Gogoi, Naseer Hussain and Rajani Patil were also present at the meeting that started around 7 PM and continued for an hour.

Elamaram Kareem (CPI-M), Faiyaz Ahmad (RJD), Jose K Mani of Kerala Congress (M), Javed Ali Khan (SP), TR Baalu (DMK), Hasnain Masoodi (NC) and Mohd Basheer (IUML) also attended the meeting.

No leader of the TMC, which is part of the INDIA bloc, attended the meeting but party sources did not specify a reason for it. They said TMC supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to attend the meeting of opposition parties in the third week of December.

Today's meeting assumes significance as it comes after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged victorious in the elections in three Hindi heartland states -- Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh -- while the Congress won the poll battle in Telangana.

There have been rumblings within the INDIA bloc after the Congress's electoral loss in the three Hindi heartland states, with the SP, which was miffed after being ignored in seat sharing, expressing its displeasure openly.

Leaders of parties such as the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), Janata Dal (United) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have said the Congress should be more accommodating when it comes to its regional allies.

At least 26 parties came together as part of the INDIA bloc to take on the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections and have so far held three rounds of deliberations in Patna, Bengaluru and Mumbai.

Sources said the opposition leaders would now plan joint rallies that were put on hold due to the assembly elections. One such rally planned in the first week of October in Bhopal was cancelled at the last moment.

Talks on seat-sharing between regional outfits would also gain momentum now, they said.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) Homeless people in the national capital are being shifted to temporary tents set up by the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board as part of the city government's winter action plan, officials said on Wednesday.

A meeting of the joint apex advisory committee was held in the first week of November to rescue homeless people and provide shelter to them. The committee comprises nodal officials of the Delhi Jal Board, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, and Delhi Police, a DUSIB official told PTI.

"Delhi government's winter action plan for the homeless has started and rescue teams have also been deployed to shift them to the temporary tents," the official said.

He said 110 tents have been set up in the city for the homeless and 15 rescue teams have been deployed on the ground who are spreading awareness about the arrangements.

"Around 30 to 40 more tents will be set up soon. We conduct surveys and accordingly chalk out the locations where tents need to be set up," the official said.

The teams identify the clusters and inform the control room that sends volunteers to shift the homeless to the temporary tents.

Teams of doctors are also visiting the temporary shelters twice a week.

"The homeless are being provided food and tea and this is something that we do all year long. We also keep track of the work that is happening," the DUSIB official said.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) Terror incidents in Jammu and Kashmir have shown a declining trend over the last about six years with 2023 registering all-time low numbers, government told the Parliament on Wednesday.

In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai said the government has a "policy of zero tolerance against terrorism and its approach is to dismantle the terror ecosystem".

Giving out figures, the minister said that this year, till November 15, 41 "terrorist initiated" incidents were reported in Jammu and Kashmir as compared to 125 last year, 129 in 2021, 126 in 2020, 153 in 2019 and 228 in 2018.

Similarly, 44 encounters were registered this year in J-K preceded by 117 (2022), 100 (2021), 118 (2020), 102 (2019) and 189 (2018).

A total of 13 civilians were killed in such incidents during 2023 while the previous figures in this context were 31 (2022), 41 (2021), 38 (2020), 44 (2019) and 55 (2018).

A total of 20 security forces personnel were killed in the line of duty in terrorist incidents this year in the Union territory as compared to 32 in 2022, 42 in 2021, 63 in 2020, 80 in 2019 and 91 in 2018, the data said.

The minister added that the government was "fully committed to the overall development of Jammu and Kashmir and has taken several measures that have significantly boosted the development."

As many as 53 projects being implemented at a cost of Rs 58,477 crore by 15 ministries/departments in the UT under the Prime Minister's Development Package-2015 in sectors such as roads, power, health, education, tourism, agriculture, skill development, etc. have been accelerated and 32 projects have been completed or substantially completed, he said.

Rai said the UT attracted a total investment of Rs 5,319.35 crore between 2019-20 and 2023-24 (up to October, 2023).
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) An enhanced interim compensation of Rs 2 lakh has been given to an acid attack survivor by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) in northeast Delhi, a statement said on Wednesday.

The survivor, who is living with her parents in Bulandshahar in Uttar Pradesh, was allegedly forced to drink some chemical by her in laws in March 2019 as a result of which she suffered 15 per cent burns and her food pipe and stomach were damaged, said the statement issued by the Brave Souls Foundation.

She underwent multiple surgeries and was still being treated by Apollo hospital, it said.

"During engagement with the survivor, it was realised that she was completely unaware of her rights to seek compensation and despite so many years after the attack, she had not received even a minimum compensation in accordance with the Supreme Court judgement," the statement said.

The application of the acid attack survivor for increased compensation was considered by the 'Criminal Injuries Compensation Board' of northeast Delhi DLSA on October 31 this year, it said.

"The DLSA, northeast Delhi, considering her injuries granted a second instalment of compensation of Rs 2 lakh to the acid attack survivor through its order on November 10," the Foundation said in its statement.

The survivor was earlier provided an interim compensation of Rs 1 lakh on July 15, 2019, it added.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) The survey of gram sabha land of urbanised villages in Delhi has been affected by difficulties in availing of revenue records and the shortage of adequate staff members, officials said on Wednesday.

Lt Governor VK Saxena in a recent review meeting had directed revenue officials to ensure the availability of records to the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) for the survey work, a senior government officer said.

Saxena on December 2 launched the Dilli Gramodaya Abhiyan for the development of urbanised villages in the national capital with a dedicated fund of more than Rs 800 crore.

Under the ambitious campaign funded and conducted by the DDA, the urbanised villages will get a major infrastructure boost, landscape upgrade and civic services at par with the main city.

The city government's urban development department notified 89 villages as 'urbanised' under the Delhi Development Act in January 2019. Another lot of 79 villages were notified as 'urban' in September 2020.

According to records available, till date, 258 gram sabhas have been vested with the DDA under Section 22(1) of the Delhi Development Act.

However, the DDA has been granted physical possession of only 165 gram sabhas.

In order to ascertain the extent of vacant land and built-up space, the DDA is carrying out total station surveys of the gram sabha land of villages.

Total station is an optical device used for land surveys.

The city government's revenue department is verifying the surveys, the officials said.

Till date, surveys have been done in 122 villages. However, reference points had not been marked earlier and it is under process.

"Non availability of proper revenue records such as Masabi and Khatauni, among others, along with the (shortage of) staff, is posing problems in the surveys," said a senior government officer.

A revised survey schedule has been issued to complete the process in the remaining villages by February and revenue staff have been directed to ensure their availability for the purpose, and provide the land records to the DDA, said the officer.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) The BJP on Wednesday trained its guns at the Arvind Kejriwal government in Delhi, alleging "corruption" in the award of tenders by the flood and irrigation department and payments to contractors without any work being done on the ground.

Flood and Irrigation Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, however, fired back at BJP, asking it to first answer why files were not sent by the officers to the minister in charge of the department for approval.

"Since March 2023, since I took charge of the department and till date, no file of these works was sent by the officers for the minister's approval," Bharadwaj claimed.

Virendra Sachdeva, the BJP's Delhi unit chief, and Leader of Opposition in Delhi Assembly Ramvir Bidhuri during a joint press conference showed copies of purported documents and also interacted with party workers present on the spots where the work was tendered by the department.

"The flood (and irrigation) department of the Kejriwal government is setting new records of corruption, as is shown that payments of crores of rupees were done even though no work was to be seen on the ground," Sachdeva alleged.

A delegation of BJP leaders will meet Lt Governor VK Saxena and request him for a high-level probe into the "scam", Sachdeva added.

"In four cases of work tendered at Burari, Tikri, Kheda Kalan and Siraspur, there was manipulation in the tender and also, under pressure of the minister concerned of the Kejriwal government, the money was paid without work (being done) by showing running bills," Sachdeva charged.

Bidhuri said the BJP leaders will also lodge a complaint with the Anti Corruption Branch (ACB) on the corruption at the flood and irrigation department.

"Corruption has spread to every department of the Kejriwal government. In the last two weeks, we have exposed tender and other scams of the Delhi Jal Board, after which the Kejriwal government is trying to spread the illusion of a water crisis in Delhi to delay the investigation," Sachdeva claimed.

He charged that drain and road tenders for the extended Lal Dora area work in Kheda Kala were worth Rs 3.28 crore. It was awarded to a construction company that had quoted Rs 1.58 crore and, despite no work being done on the ground, more than half of the amount was paid in the name of running bills.

In case of drain repairs and painting work in Burari ahead of the G20 Summit, the tender amount was for Rs 76.56 lakh and the successful bidder quoted a price of Rs 38.98 lakh. However, they were paid Rs 43 lakh despite no work being done, he claimed.

In Narela's Tikri village, a construction company was paid Rs 50 lakh for a bid of Rs 1.91 crore for a project under the Chief Minister Road Reconstruction Scheme, although no work is visible on the ground, he alleged.

Bidhuri alleged that in the extended Lal Dora area of Siraspur, a work for construction of reinforced concrete road and drain was awarded to a construction company but no work was done.

"I challenge Chief Minister Kejriwal to show even one road or drain constructed in that area. I will quit politics if he shows me even one," Bidhuri asserted.

In his response, Bharadwaj alleged that the BJP-led Centre and the Lt Governor were running Delhi through their "favourite" officers.

He claimed that the flood and irrigation department secretary was instructed by him in writing that all files related to projects costing more than Rs 25 lakh should be sent to the minister for in-principle approval but it was not being followed by the officers.

"This was to ensure that the minister is at least aware of the projects being undertaken by the department," he said.

Bharadwaj further charged that the Centre's law relating to Delhi have increased the powers of the officers and causing a rise in corruption at the departments of the government.
Rajouri/Jammu, Dec 6 (PTI) A bus overturned in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday leaving one passenger dead and 22 others, including 14 students, injured, officials said.

The accident took place near Radha Soami Ashram in Thandikassi village along the Rajouri-Jammu national highway.

The bus was on its way to Rajouri from Manjakote and hit two cars before overturning, they said.

The injured were rushed to the Government Medical College Hospital Rajouri.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) The Delhi Fire Services has rescued more than 6,800 birds and animals in the past 11 months, according to official data.

Of the total, 3,247 were animals and 3,642 birds, the data showed.

According to Delhi Fire Services data accessed by PTI, more than 29,000 distress calls from the national capital were recorded between January 1 and November 30.

"Rescue of innocent animals is really tough work. There is no verbal communication, animals do not respond, which makes rescue operations more challenging," Atul Garg, chief of the Delhi Fire Services told PTI, adding that the animals sometimes attack the fire-fighters as well.

"Ask our team member Ved Prakash. He had to get 19 stitches on his face after being attacked by a dog stuck in a canal that he was trying to save," Garg said, as he showed a picture of Prakash on his mobile phone.

The fire department recently launched a three-hour rescue operation to save a dog that had been stuck inside a south Delhi drain for three days.

"The number of distress calls for saving birds increases during the kite-flying season," Garg said.

The Delhi Fire Services has responded to 29,034 distress calls throughout the year.

Most of these rescue operations were carried out around Independence Day during the traditional kite flying season in the national capital.

According to the Delhi Fire Services, 3,158 distress calls were received in August, 2,965 in November and 2,935 in May.

"The Delhi Fire Services rescued 831 birds in August around Independence Day. Every life is important to us and our fire-fighters risk their lives to save them," Garg said.

Most of the distress calls were for the rescue of birds such as crows, pigeons and parrots that got entangled in the sharp kite strings dangling from overhead wires or trees.

An analysis of the data shows that the highest number of animal rescue incidents were reported in November.

The data showed that 348 animals were rescued during Diwali. February, with 224, recorded the least number of incidents.

Faiyaz Khudsar, a bird expert, told PTI over the phone, "Not only birds, even humans have lost their lives in past incidents in Delhi due to kite-flying. Chinese manjha is one of the biggest reasons behind deaths of birds in Delhi. The threads used for kite-flying are unwittingly becoming agents of harm, threatening the lives of our feathered friends."

Khudsar, the Biodiversity Park in-charge, further said that amid the laughter and festivities, it becomes imperative for people to introspect and identify activities that, though seemingly harmless, pose a threat to the environment and its inhabitants.

"We all must ensure that our joy doesn't come at the cost of another's life," he added.

The Delhi Fire Services also received calls related to cows, cattle, dogs or cats, and reptiles that got stuck in some areas from where it became impossible for them to come out.

"Only traffic is a major concern for us to reach any location. Otherwise, our fire-fighters will move the earth to save the life of anyone stuck in any problem," Garg said.
New Delhi, Dec 6 (PTI) The Executive Council of Jamia Millia Islamia has nominated two new members for a search committee that will shortlist the candidates for appointing its next vice-chancellor, an official said on Wednesday.

The new members were nominated since the previous nominations could not be sent to the Union Ministry of Education on time, Najma Akhtar -- the former Jamia Millia Islamia vice-chancellor -- told PTI.

"The Executive Council has given new names for the search committee because the process to send the previous names to the ministry was delayed as my tenure had ended," she said.

Amid the delay in forming the search committee, Pro Vice-Chancellor Eqbal Hussain assumed the role of officiating vice-chancellor on November 13.

The new members for the search committee nominated by the council are Tariq Mansoor -- a nominated member of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council and former vice-chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University -- and Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh Vice-Chancellor TV Kattimani.

The chairperson of the three-member search committee will be decided by the ministry.

The minutes of Tuesday's meeting have been sent to the ministry, the official said.

In November, the Executive Council had put forward the names of Zoya Hasan, the spouse of former Jamia Millia Islamia vice-chancellor Mushirul Hasan, and NALSAR University of Law (Hyderabad) ex-vice-chancellor Faizan Mustafa as members of the search committee.
Shimla, Dec 5 (PTI) Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh on Tuesday attacked BJP leader Jai Ram Thakur for alleging that money from Chhattisgarh was used to fund the Congress' poll campaign in the hill-state last year, saying it does not behove the senior leader to make such baseless statements.

Thakur had on Monday said there are allegations that outgoing Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel funded the Congress' campaign in the assembly polls in Himachal Pradesh "from money received through the Mahadev app scam", and added that further investigations would reveal the truth.

While polls were held in Himachal Pradesh in 2022, it was held in Chhattisgarh last month. The BJP wrested Chhattisgarh from the Congress.

"If there is anything as such, they (the BJP) can get it investigated as both the Enforcement Directorate (ED)and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) are under the central government," Singh, a senior Congress leader, told reporters here. The BJP is power at the Centre.

He advised Thakur, who is the leader of opposition in the Himachal Pradesh assembly, to ponder why his party was ousted from power in the state one year ago.

With his remarks, Thakur had targeted Baghel over the app scam case a day after the Congress lost in Chhattisgarh.

The Mahadev betting app is under the radar of the Enforcement Directorate for money laundering between India and Dubai through Hawala transactions.
Amaravati, Dec 6 (PTI) Severe cyclonic storm Michaung that ravaged parts of Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday has now weakened into a depression and moved northwards, said a Meteorological official on Wednesday.

The weather system is expected to move northwards and further weaken into a well marked low pressure area in the next six hours, the official said.

It moved at a speed of 11 km per hour in the past six hours until 5:30 am and lay centred over northeast Telangana, adjoining south Chhattisgarh, south interior Odisha and coastal Andhra Pradesh, the official added.

The deep depression (remnant of cyclonic storm Michaung) over central coastal Andhra Pradesh moved nearly northwards with a speed of 11 kmph during the past six hours, weakened into a depression and lay centred at 5:30 am on December 6 near latitude 17.4 degrees north and longitude 80.5 degrees east, Amaravati Meteorological Centre head Stella Kiran told PTI.

The weather system is about 50 km east to northeast of Khammam, 110 km north to northeast of Gannavaram and 250 km south of Jagdalpur.

Under the influence of the depression, the Meteorological Department forecast heavy rainfall, 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm, for the districts of Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Alluri Sitarama Raju, Anakapalli, Kakinada, Konaseema and Eluru.

Meanwhile, several parts of the state continue to be cloudy.


Chennai, Dec 6 (PTI) Residents grappled with stagnant water and power disruption in parts of the city and its suburbs on Wednesday, two days after Cyclone Michuang wreaked havoc in the metropolis and neighbouring districts, even as civic agency personnel stepped up relief and rehabilitation efforts.



The cyclone-triggered heavy rainfall had led to inundation in localities including Velachery and Tambaram. On Wednesday too, people were seen leaving their homes in the areas surrounded with water to safer zones, carrying their children and wading through stagnant water. They called for help, including pressing more boats to ferry people to higher ground.



Chief Minister M K Stalin visited some of the affected areas and distributed food and essential commodities to people put up at a relief centre in the city. He inspected activities undertaken by the city civic body to drain water.



He also wrote to the Centre seeking an interim flood relief of Rs 5,060 crore to tide over the situation.



Many users on social media site 'X' shared videos of residential localities still being surrounded by stagnant water, claiming many residents were stuck inside.



The hashtag #Velachery was trending on the microblogging site.



A user lamented that her relatives were stuck in their home for the last three days without power, drinking water and milk.



There were complaints of delay in supply of milk in many affected parts including Velachery and Tambaram and residents alleged it was being sold for extra price.



Power supply had not resumed in parts of the city including Kilpauk and Kattupakkam.



The state government said relief activities were in full swing and that people in many of the affected areas were being rescued through inflatable boats even during the midnight.



Senior officials of the Greater Chennai Corporation were overseeing the rescue and relief activities, the civic agency said.



The Greater Chennai Police also announced helpline numbers for citizens to contact them for rescue and relief activities.



An update from the city police on Wednesday said six rain-related deaths were reported while many persons in need were rescued by the cops in different parts of the city. Among the rescued were senior citizens, pregnant women, and a woman and her newborn, an official release said.



Further, 11 subways in the metro remained closed for vehicular movement due to water-logging.



There were no disruptions in operations at the airport, while the Southern Railway announced cancelling a number of services and diversion of many others.



However, Southern Railway announced resumption of the suburban services on the Chennai Egmore-Chengalpet and Chennai Beach-Arakkonam routes with frequency of 30 and 45 minutes, respectively. Services on the Tiruvottiyur-Sullurpeta line will be operated on an hourly frequency, it said in an update.
Bengaluru, Dec 6 (PTI) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday directed officials to initiate measures to set up a special court to try the killings of Gauri Lankesh and M M Kalburgi for speedy disposal of the matters.



The left-leaning Lankesh, a journalist was killed in September, 2017 here allegedly by the same gang which had shot dead famous litterateur

Kalburgi 2 years earlier at his residence in Dharwad.



In an administrative note, Siddaramaiah said Gauri's sister Kavitha Lankesh and Kalburgi's wife Umadevi and apprised him about the delay in the hearing of their case.



As they demanded that a special court with a full time judge be set up to hear the case, the Chief Minister asked the Additional Chief Secretary dealing with internal administration to look into it for necessary action.
Hyderabad, Dec 6 (PTI) A Telugu cinema actor was on Wednesday arrested here for allegedly abetting the suicide of a woman junior artiste, police said.



Jagadish P Bandari was accused of threatening and blackmailing the 34-year-old woman after "taking her photo along with a man", they said. He had acted in the blockbuster movie 'Pushpa.'



The woman had died on November 29 and a suicide case was filed. Based on the findings during the course of investigation the police altered the section to abetment to suicide and arrested Bandari, they said.





The woman's father had lodged a complaint at Panjagutta police station. Further investigation was on.
Britain's immigration minister quit on Wednesday after the government published legislation regarding its controversial treaty with Rwanda to send migrants to the East African country.

Related UK top court says a plan to send migrants to Rwanda is unlawful because they would be at risk

Interior minister James Cleverly told lawmakers that Robert Jenrick had resigned, in a move that piles pressure on embattled Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

The U.K. government triggered criticism from opponents and division inside the governing Conservatives on Wednesday with a bill that will let it ignore a part of the country's human rights law in order to send asylum-seekers on a one-way trip to Rwanda.

The legislation is part of government plans to overcome a block by the U.K. Supreme Court on its Rwanda policy. The court ruled last month that the plan was illegal because Rwanda isn't a safe country for refugees.

Britain and Rwanda have since signed a treaty pledging to strengthen protection for migrants. The U.K. government says that will allow it to pass a law declaring Rwanda a safe destination.

Home Secretary James Cleverly said the Safety of Rwanda Bill will make absolutely clear in U.K. law that Rwanda is a safe country. He urged lawmakers in Parliament to pass the legislation, even though it may violate international human rights rules.

The government says the law will allow it to disapply" sections of U.K. human rights law when it comes to Rwanda-related asylum claims.

On the first page of the bill, Cleverly states that he cant guarantee that it's compatible with the European Convention on Human Rights  but that lawmakers should approve it anyway.

The bill now faces a battle in Parliament. It doesn't go far enough for some lawmakers on the governing Conservative Partys authoritarian wing, who want the U.K. to go further and leave the European rights convention completely. That would put Britain among a very few European nonmembers including Belarus and Russia, which was expelled after Moscow launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The bill also will likely face resistance from centrist Conservative lawmakers who oppose Britain breaching its human rights obligations.

And Rwandan Foreign Minister Vincent Biruta said that his country would scrap the deal unless Britain stuck to international law.

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Thane, Dec 5 (PTI) Officials of CBD-Belapur police station have arrested five habitual criminals including two brothers and claimed to have solved four cases of theft in the Navi Mumbai area.

Stolen goods worth Rs 9.12 lakh including an autorickshaw and laptops were seized, said an official.

The accused were identified as Saddam Hussain (35), Nilesh Raju Londe (22), Sanjay Kamble (42), Guddu Soni (39) and Vikki Raju Londe, (20).

Further probe is on.
Westerly, RI (02891)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. High near 45F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. Low 33F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.




FBI Director Christopher Wray called Tuesday for the reauthorization of a U.S. government surveillance tool set to expire at the end of the year, warning Senate lawmakers that there would be devastating consequences for public safety if the program is allowed to lapse.

At issue is Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which allows the U.S. government to collect without a warrant the communications of targeted foreigners outside the United States.

The program, created in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, is due to expire at the end of this month unless Congress votes to reauthorize it. But Republican and Democratic lawmakers alike have balked at renewing the program in its current form, recommending a slew of reforms through competing legislative proposals that are jockeying for support in the coming weeks.

The fact that Wray devoted a significant portion of his prepared remarks to the Senate Judiciary Committee to the issue underscores its importance to the FBI, particularly at a time when the Israel-Hamas war has drawn heightened concern about the possibility of extremist violence on U.S. soil and contributed to threats being at a whole other level since the Oct. 7 attacks.

Wray, calling the authority indispensable, told the committee, 702 allows us to stay a step ahead of foreign actors located outside the United States who pose a threat to national security.

And the expiration of our 702 authorities would be devastating to the FBIs ability to protect Americans from those threats.

Wray, who took over as director in 2017, said that what made the current climate unique is that so many of the threats are all elevated at the same time.

But the 702 program has come under scrutiny in the last year following revelations that FBI analysts improperly searched the database of intelligence, including for information about people tied to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol and the racial justice protests of 2020.

Those concerns have united longtime vocal champions of civil liberties, including Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon, as well as Republican supporters of former President Donald Trump who are still angry over surveillance missteps made during the Russia investigation of 2016.

Some of the legislative proposals designed to reform 702 would require the FBI to obtain a warrant before searching the intelligence repository for information about Americans and others inside the U.S.

But Wray and Biden administration officials said such a requirement would be both legally unnecessary and would hold up the FBI In trying to intercept fast-moving national security threats.

If a warrant requirement is the path chosen, Wray said, What if there were a terrorist attack that we had a shot to prevent, but couldnt take it, because the FBI was deprived of the ability under 702 to look at key information already sitting in our holdings?

Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin, the chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, summed up the issue by telling Wray that though there was no question that Section 702 was a critical tool for collecting foreign intelligence but the Illinois lawmaker supports significant reforms meant to protect the privacy of innocent Americans.

(AP)




North Carolina Rep. Patrick McHenry, who presided temporarily over the U.S. House for three intense weeks while Republicans struggled to elect a permanent speaker after Kevin McCarthys ouster, announced Tuesday that he wont seek reelection to his seat next year.

McHenry, who was first elected to the House in 2004 at age 29, unveiled his surprise decision as candidate filing started this week in North Carolina. He currently represents the 10th District covering several counties north and west of Charlotte entering the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

He had announced his reelection campaign in late October, just two days after the completion of another congressional redistricting by the Republican-controlled legislature that kept the reconfigured 10th District on the GOP side of the ledger in the November 2024 election. That announcement also came two days after U.S. House Republicans ultimately got behind Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana to become the next speaker.

McHenrys news release didnt explain his reversal.

I will be retiring from Congress at the end of my current term. This is not a decision I come to lightly, but I believe there is a season for everything and  for me  this season has come to an end, McHenry said. I look forward to what the next season brings for my family and me.

Known as the bow tie-wearing chairman of the Financial Services Committee, McHenry had risen through the House Republican ranks in recent years. As a top lieutenant to McCarthy, McHenry helped him win the speakers contest in January and negotiate the debt limit deal made with President Joe Biden earlier this year.

McHenry was thrust into a starker spotlight in October when McCarthy was pushed out of his speaker job in a historic vote.

According to House rules, McHenry was picked from a list McCarthy was required to keep and became the acting speaker  also known as speaker pro tempore  until the chamber figured out who would be the next leader.

As several candidates for the job rose and fell, McHenry resisted overtures from some Republicans and Democrats who wanted to give McHenry more power to get on with the routine business of governing.

McHenry, now 48, ran unsuccessfully for a state House seat in 1998, but he won four years later. In 2004, McHenry pulled off an upset by winning the 10th District GOP U.S. House primary, narrowly defeating a popular local sheriff in a runoff before winning in the general election.

McHenry entered Congress as a hardline conservative willing to speak against leadership, but over time McHenry rose up the GOP leadership ladder, becoming the Republicans chief deputy whip in 2015, and a key part of McCarthys team.

(AP)




The U.S. House will vote next week on formally authorizing its impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden, Speaker Mike Johnson said Tuesday, asserting Republicans have no choice but to push ahead as the White House has rebuffed their requests for information.

Johnson and the rest of the Republican leadership team had been contemplating in recent weeks whether to hold a formal vote on their monthslong inquiry into the president, which has centered on the business dealings of other family members. Their investigation so far has yet to produce any direct evidence of wrongdoing by Biden himself.

While some Republicans are wary of holding a vote on the inquiry, Johnson said the House needs to exercise its authority to the fullest amid a standoff with the White House over requests for information related to Biden and his son Hunter Biden.

The House has no choice if its going to follow its constitutional responsibility to formally adopt an impeachment inquiry on the floor so that when the subpoenas are challenged in court, we will be at the apex of our constitutional authority, Johnson told reporters.

The White House has repeatedly dismissed the inquiry as a baseless exercise meant to appease right-wing lawmakers.

Republicans had long said a vote on the impeachment investigation was unnecessary but began to reconsider when White House lawyers used the lack of formal House authorization to argue that the entire investigation lacked constitutional legitimacy.

But a vote on the House floor  going into a presidential election cycle  amounts to a major test of party unity, given the GOPs narrow 221-213 majority. House Democrats for their part have remained unified in their opposition to the impeachment process, saying it is a farce used by the GOP to take attention away from former President Donald Trump and his legal woes.

For the impeachment probe vote to succeed, nearly all House Republicans will have to vote in favor of the inquiry, putting them on record in support of a process that can lead to the ultimate penalty for a president, dismissal from office for what the Constitution describes as high crimes and misdemeanors.

For some moderate Republicans, especially those representing districts that Biden won in the 2020 election, its a vote that could come with considerable political risk.

Johnson on Tuesday dismissed concerns that he wouldnt be able to rally his vulnerable members to support moving forward with the inquiry. He emphasized the House is not voting to impeach Biden, only to continue to investigate.

All the moderates in our conference understand this is not a political decision, he said. This is a legal decision. This is a constitutional decision. And whether someone is for or against impeachment is of no import right now.

He added, We have to continue our legal responsibility and that is solely what this vote is about.

(AP)




The university presidents of Harvard, UPenn, and MIT found themselves faced with a simple, yet striking question from Rep. Elise Stefanik during a Congressional hearing on Tuesday, and their responses were nothing less than horrifying.

The House Education and Workforce Committee convened the hearing to address the rising concerns of antisemitism on college campuses.

Rep. Elise Stefanik directly questioned the university presidents regarding their position on statements advocating for the genocide of Jewish people. Despite repeated inquiries, the university presidents would not say that calling for the genocide of Jewish people would violate their schools codes of conduct.

Stefanik asked each one of the university presidents if calling for genocide against Jewish people violates the bullying or harassment policies on their campuses.

If the speech becomes conduct, it can be harassment, UPenn President Liz Magill said.

Conduct meaning committing the act of genocide? Stefanik fired back.

Do you believe that type of hateful speech is contrary to Harvards code of conduct or is it allowed at Harvard? Stefanik, a Harvard graduate, asked President Claudine Gay.

It is at odds with the value of Harvard, but we embrace a commitment to free expression even of views that are objectionable, offensive, hateful, Gay shamefully answered.

Watch the video below, but be warned: if you have blood pressure problems, this might not be the video for you to watch.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




Former President Donald Trumps civil business fraud trial turned Tuesday to one of the topics that has vexed him most  the value of his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida.

Testifying for Trumps defense, a Florida real estate attorney said the property could be sold as a home, notwithstanding decades-old legal documents in which Trump said he intended to forswear its use as anything but a club. Then a Palm Beach luxury real estate broker testified that hed value the historic estate at over $1 billion as of 2021.

Its something breathtaking. Its something amazing to see, broker Lawrence Moens said before showing a glimmering video complete with swelling music, aerial shots of the property at sunrise and sunset and a closing image of an American flag.

His testimony was punctuated by wry remarks. He described a photo of a different part of ritzy Palm Beach as showing some land, some houses, for instance.

At one point, Moens even briefly answered a personal phone call while on the witness stand: Dad, I love you, but Ive got to get off the phone.

Spanning 17 acres (7 hectares) with waterfront on two sides, the Trump estate and social club is his home, a place where the former president and current Republican 2024 front-runner has conducted high-profile meetings while in and out of office, and the spot where federal special counsel Jack Smith alleges he improperly stashed classified documents, which Trump denies.

Mar-a-Lago also is a key element of the current New York civil case and Trumps vehement frustration with it.

State Attorney General Letitia James lawsuit claims that the ex-president and his company deceived lenders and others by giving them financial statements that greatly overstated the values of some of his prime assets, including Mar-a-Lago.

Judge Arthur Engoron, in a pretrial ruling declaring that Trump and his company engaged in fraud, found that he exaggerated Mar-a-Lagos worth by as much as 2,300%, compared to the Palm Beach County tax appraisers valuations. They ranged from $18 million to $28 million.

Trump denies any wrongdoing, saying that his financial statements actually undervalued his assets and were accompanied by disclaimers that wipe away liability for any mistakes.

His frequent complaints about the case have often spotlighted the claims about Mar-a-Lago, one of the holdings he called the Mona Lisas of properties during pretrial questioning. As recently as last Friday, Trump vented on his Truth Social platform that the judge and James falsified the value of Mar-a-Lago.

The Palm Beach County tax assessment that the judge mentioned was based on Mar-a-Lagos annual net operating income as a club, not on its resale value as a home or on its reconstruction cost. The county uses the operating-income method to value other social clubs, and the outcome carries tax benefits for Trump  a $602,000 property tax bill this year, compared to about $18 million if Mar-a-Lago were assessed at $1 billion.

In a 2002 agreement with the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the club and Trump signed over any and all of their rights to develop the property for any usage other than club usage.

Yet when pulling information together for Trumps annual financial statements, his former corporate controller Jeffrey McConney valued Mar-a-Lago club as though the property could be sold as a private home. The statements pegged it as high as $612 million in 2021.

James said that those values ignored the agreement with the National Trust. The attorney general, a Democrat, maintains that Trump should have valued Mar-a-Lago by its operating income, as the county does.

But Trump, in his own testimony last month, said he believes he retains the right to re-designate the property as a home. The National Trust has declined to comment on whether it agrees.

A defense witness, Miami-based real estate attorney John Shubin, testified Tuesday that there is absolutely no prohibition on the use of Mar-a-Lago as a single-family residence.

He noted that the property is simultaneously a club and Trumps residence. Shubin also pointed to a 1993 agreement between Trump and the city that said Mar-a-Lago would revert to private residential use if the club were abandoned.

Anybody who buys it  would just step into the shoes of President Trump, defense attorney Christopher Kise said.

Some Palm Beach luxury real estate agents have told The Associated Press that the property would sell for $300 million to $600 million, and possibly $1 billion or more if it sparked a bidding war among uber-wealthy contenders.

So said Moens, a longtime Mar-a-Lago club member who has said he once sold another Palm Beach property on Trumps behalf.

In a pretrial report, Moens pegged Mar-a-Lagos 2021 value at more than $1 billion, saying it would be an unparalleled family compound for a rarefied cadre of the worlds financial elite.

Asked during pretrial questioning whom he meant, Moens said he could dream up anyone from Elon Musk to Bill Gates and kings, emperors, heads of state.

You may say Im a dreamer, but Im not the only one, Moens said during cross-examination Tuesday, borrowing a line from John Lennons song Imagine and hailing Trump as a dreamer and a great American.

The trial had been due to continue Wednesday with a second round of testimony from the former presidents son Eric Trump, an executive vice president at his fathers company. But defense lawyers decided they didnt need to bring back the son, whos also a defendant in the case.

Instead, testimony will resume Thursday with an expert on accounting.

(AP)




House Speaker Mike Johnson told fellow Republicans on Tuesday that sweeping changes to U.S. border policy would be their hill to die on in negotiations that have already grown tense as Congress considers President Joe Bidens $110 billion package for the wars in Ukraine and Israel and other security needs.

Johnson delivered the hard-line message Tuesday morning ahead of classified briefings the Biden administration organized to underscore how desperately the aid is needed. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was scheduled to address the senators via video but had to cancel his appearance, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said.

Instead, the meeting erupted in frustration and yelling as Republicans insisted on including border security in the discussion. Democrats have dismissed the Republican border proposals as attempts to return to the draconian policies of former President Donald Trump.

Biden is pushing a reluctant Congress to approve the military, economic and humanitarian aid package, but the injection of border security into the negotiations has made progress difficult. The Senate was headed to a test vote Wednesday, but Republicans have promised to block it.

The battle is for the border, Johnson said at a news conference. We do that first as a top priority, and well take care of these other obligations.

Moments earlier, Johnson told GOP lawmakers in a closed-door meeting that their hill to die on in the negotiations was border policy, according to a Republican in the meeting. Conservatives are pressing for the provisions in H.R. 2, a bill they passed in May that would restart construction of walls along the southern border and make it drastically more difficult for migrants to claim asylum in the U.S.

Johnson reiterated his stance in a letter to the White House on Tuesday, one day after officials warned that the U.S. will run out of funding to send weapons and assistance to Ukraine by the end of the year, threatening its ability to fight Russias invasion.

In the Senate, Schumer is trying to advance the emergency funding legislation but without the border provisions Republicans are demanding. He described the package as crucial to ensuring the future of Ukraine and democracy.

This is a turning point in Western civilization, Schumer told reporters at a news conference.

Schumer added that Johnson told him in a private meeting that he could not pass the supplemental package through the House without H.R. 2 attached.

The GOPs demands could imperil any legislation that emerges from the Senate, where a bipartisan group is trying to find agreement on a pared-down set of border policy proposals. Republicans in those negotiations have acknowledged they are not insisting on the broad policies included in the Houses legislation, creating a schism between the two chambers.

Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., said it was not rational to expect the closely divided Senate to pass a bill that didnt gain a single Democratic vote in the House.

You cant make law like that, Lankford said. We have to make law.

So far, the Senate negotiations have centered on a proposal to raise the initial threshold for migrants to enter the asylum system, as well as limiting the executive branchs ability to admit migrants through humanitarian parole.

Democrats took a step back from the talks earlier this week, saying that Republicans were unwilling to compromise. Republican senators are making a counter-offer, but still say they will block the funding package if it does not include border security policy they can agree on.

Before Wednesdays test vote, Schumer made Republicans what he called a golden offer: agree to move ahead with the aid package and they could offer any amendment they want to add border security to the package.

But when Schumer brought up the amendment offer in the classified briefing Tuesday afternoon, several Republican senators stood up and stormed out of the meeting, which was with senior administration officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. CQ Brown Jr.

Republicans are just walking out of the briefing because the people there are not willing to actually discuss what it takes to get a deal done, said Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah.

At one point, Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., raised his voice at Schumer, according to a person familiar with the private meeting and granted anonymity to discuss it. Cotton was pushing back against Schumers claim that Republicans had inserted border security into the debate and arguing Biden had opened the door to policy by including border funding in the package.

In another exchange, Sen. Kevin Cramer, a Republican from North Dakota, said he repeatedly tried to engage with Brown chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, about border security.

As senators departed, they described a tense and angry meeting. Schumer told reporters that a Republican senator had screamed at a general, but declined to say who it was.

Nobody stabbed anybody  Ill put it that way  but it was close, said Sen. John Kennedy, R-La.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell is encouraging all GOP senators to vote against advancing the Biden aid package to show they are serious in demanding border changes.

Now is the time to pay attention to our own border in addition to these other important international concerns, he said.

House lawmakers also heard from national security adviser Jake Sullivan about the urgency of providing assistance. Republicans in the House remain deeply skeptical of sending more wartime funding to Ukraine, and some have said they wont support it even if it is paired with hard-line border policy.

The White House has declined to discuss publicly the details of the border negotiations and urged lawmakers to quickly pass Bidens emergency funding request.

Olivia Dalton, the White House principal deputy press secretary, said aboard Air Force One on Tuesday that the president and his administration have been very clear about the stakes in Ukraine.

Johnson, a hard-line conservative, voted against security assistance for Ukraine in September, but since becoming speaker has been more receptive to funding the countrys military, warning that Russian President Vladimir Putin cannot be allowed to prevail.

Still, Johnson said he wanted more information from the White House on the strategy for exiting the conflict.

What is the objective? What is the endgame in Ukraine? How are we going to have proper oversight of the funds? the speaker said.

The charged dynamic has lawmakers deeply worried that Congress could fail to pass the funding by the end of the year.

The world needs to be very concerned about whats happening here, said Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., on Monday night. Republicans have decided to hold Ukraine funding hostage to a domestic political priority that is amongst the hardest in American politics to solve.

(AP)




An effort to access voting system software in several states and provide it to allies of former President Donald Trump as they sought to overturn the results of the 2020 election has raised serious threats ahead of next years presidential contest, according to a group of experts who urged federal agencies to investigate.

The letter sent by nearly two dozen computer scientists, election security experts and voter advocacy organizations asks for a federal probe and a risk assessment of voting machines used throughout the country, saying the software breaches have urgent implications for the 2024 election and beyond. The breaches affected voting equipment made by two companies that together count over 70% of the votes cast across the country, according to the letter.

The multistate effort to unlawfully obtain copies of voting system software poses serious threats to election security and national security and constitutes a potential criminal conspiracy of enormous consequences, the group wrote in a letter sent to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, special counsel Jack Smith, FBI Director Christopher Wray and Jen Easterly, director of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. We must protect our most sacred tenet of democracy  the security of our vote.

The letter, sent to the agencies late Monday, was organized by the left-leaning group Free Speech for People, a nonprofit advocacy group focused on election and campaign finance reforms. The group also has filed challenges in a handful of states seeking to ban Trump from the ballot in 2024 under the insurrection clause of the 14th Amendment.

The FBI, Justice Department and Smiths office declined comment. The cybersecurity agency did not immediately respond.

Trumps loss in the 2020 election helped fuel unfounded conspiracy theories around voting machines that in turn led to threats against election workers, a push in many conservative counties to hand-count ballots and defamation lawsuits by companies that make the equipment. Authorities in three states  Colorado, Georgia and Michigan  have charged people in connection with breaches at local election offices, but there has been no public indication of a federal probe.

The letter sent this week outlines what is known publicly about the efforts to access those voting systems, which began in the weeks after the Nov. 3, 2020, presidential election won by Democrat Joe Biden. It cites a Dec. 18, 2020, meeting in the Oval Office in which Trump allies, including lawyers Sidney Powell and Rudy Giuliani, discussed a desire to access voting machines in presidential swing states Trump lost, according to congressional testimony. It also details subsequent efforts to secure that access.

Powell, Giuliani and Trump were among 19 people charged this summer in Fulton County, Georgia, where state prosecutors have alleged they were part of a conspiracy to overturn Trumps loss in the state. That included the unauthorized breach of voting systems in rural Coffee County, Georgia.

Powell has since pleaded guilty to reduced charges and has agreed to testify against her co-defendants. Prosecutors alleged she had conspired with others to access election equipment without authorization in the county and hired a computer forensics firm to copy software and data from voting machines and computers.

The letter to federal officials cites various documents and news reports to highlight potential connections between Powell and three people charged in a similar effort in Michigan, where state prosecutors allege there was unauthorized access to ballot tabulators in three counties. Powell has not been charged in the Michigan case.

In addition to Georgia and Michigan, the letter mentions voting system breaches or attempts to access voting-related systems in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Nevada and Colorado as well as various individuals involved in the efforts. It stresses that possession of voting system software could enable people with ill intent to practice how to meddle in the 2024 election, allowing them to identify vulnerabilities and test potential attacks.

And they could use their knowledge of the software to fabricate evidence of stolen votes, either for disinformation or to challenge election results, the letter said.

In Colorado, former Mesa County clerk Tina Peters has pleaded not guilty to state charges alleging she was part of a deceptive scheme to provide unauthorized access to the countys voting systems during a May 2021 breach that eventually resulted in a copy of the voting system hard drive being posted online.

Peters, whose trial is scheduled for next year, has said she had the authority to investigate concerns that the voting equipment had been manipulated. She has appeared at several events with MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, a Trump ally who has promoted election conspiracy theories.

Federal authorities have been involved in the Colorado case, but the extent of any investigation is unknown. In September 2022, Lindell said he received a subpoena from a federal grand jury investigating the breach in Colorado and was ordered to hand over his cellphone to FBI agents.

In the Michigan case, a special prosecutor said local clerks who turned over the ballot tabulators and others who analyzed the equipment were deceived by some of the charged defendants. They have not been charged.

Among the 22 people who signed the letter to the federal agencies was Douglas W. Jones, a computer scientist who said the effects of the various breaches were not limited to the local election offices where they occurred because the voting system software involved is used by many offices across the country. The letter says those involved accessed equipment made by two of the leading manufacturers, Dominion Voting Systems and Election Systems & Software.

In 2024, no matter which way the election goes, election deniers on one side or the other could easily grasp on the breaches following the 2020 election and suggest that those breaches allowed the 2024 results to be cooked, he said.

Election technology expert Kevin Skoglund, who also signed the letter, said a federal probe was necessary because many of those involved have not been investigated or been asked to give up their copies of the election software.

Every software copy that is reclaimed reduces the risks of further distribution, disinformation and harm to the security of future elections, Skoglund said. There should be consequences for widely sharing parts of our national critical infrastructure or others will be encouraged to repeat these schemes.

(AP)
On December 5, 2023, the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone held the 2023 Ambassador's Scholarship Award Ceremony. Ambassador Wang Qing and the Minister of Technology and Higher EducationDr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie delivered speeches.

Ambassador Wang congratulated to all the awardees and said that the cooperation between China and Sierra Leone in the field of education has been fruitful over the past 52 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The cooperationhas vigorously promoted China-Sierra Leone friendship as well as mutual understanding between the two people. China is willing to further dovetail with the development plan of the Sierra Leonean government, helping the later to cultivate more needed talents in order to realize the major goals of theBIG FIVE GAME CHANGERS in President Bio's second term of tenure.

Minister Dr. Haja Wurie highly appreciated China's long-term support and assistance to the development of education and human resources in Sierra Leone, and expressed her willingness to promote more practical cooperation with China to cement the traditional friendship between the two countries.

The award-winning students expressed their gratitude to the Chinese Embassy and promised to study hard and strive to be messengers of Sino-Sierra Leone friendly cooperation and cultural exchanges.




Two months after his historic ouster as U.S. House speaker, Republican Rep. Kevin McCarthy said Wednesday that he is resigning and will leave Congress by the end of the year.

His announcement capped a stunning end to a House career for the onetime deli counter owner from Bakersfield, California, who ascended through state and national politics to become second in line to the presidency, until a cluster of hard-right conservatives engineered his removal in October.

McCarthy is the only speaker in history to be voted out of the job.

No matter the odds, or personal cost, we did the right thing," McCarthy wrote in The Wall Street Journal, announcing his decision. It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways."

Word about McCarthy's future had been expected, days before the filing deadline to seek reelection to the House. But his decision ricocheted across Capitol Hill, where his departure will leave the already paper-thin House GOP majority even tighter, with just a few seats to spare.

It adds to the wave of retirements in the House, which has been split by Republican infighting, and the rare expulsion last week of indicted GOP Rep. George Santos of New York, dashing hopes for major accomplishments and leaving the majority straining to conduct the basic business of governing.

McCarthy had brought the Republicans into the majority but found it was much more difficult to lead the GOP's factions.

His toppling from the speaker's post was fueled by grievances from his partys hard-right flank, including over his decision to work with Democrats to keep the federal government open rather than risk a shutdown.

House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana, a Republican who succeeded McCarthy as speaker, tweeted that McCarthy served faithfully and sacrificed substantially for the good of our country and our cause.

Speaking later with reporters, Johnson called McCarthy a long and trusted friend and said he was sad to see him go.

Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who led the effort to remove McCarthy, tweeted a one-word response after his announcement: McLeavin."

McCarthy, 58, arrived in the House in January 2007 after a stint in the California Assembly, where he was minority leader. In Congress, he maneuvered through his partys hierarchy before being elected speaker in January.

The dayslong floor fight that preceded his elevation to the Houses top job foreshadowed a stormy tenure, at a time when former President Donald Trump remained the de facto leader of the party and deep divisions within the GOP raised serious questions about the partys ability to govern.

It took a record 15 votes over four days for McCarthy to line up the support he needed to win the post he had long coveted, finally prevailing on a 216-212 vote with Democrats backing leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York and six Republican holdouts voting present. Not since the Civil War era has a speakers vote dragged through so many rounds of counting.

McCarthy emerged from the fight weakened, especially considering Republicans held only a fragile margin in the chamber after a predicted red wave failed to materialize in the 2022 elections.

In the speaker's job, McCarthy's well-known savvy for fundraising and political glad-handing appeared ill-suited for corralling his partys hard-right members. Deals he cut to become speaker  including a rules change that allowed any single lawmaker to file a motion to remove him  left him vulnerable.

When he became speaker, he faced new challenges that required a different skill set, said Claremont McKenna College political scientist Jack Pitney, a onetime domestic policy analyst for House Republicans. And the deals he made to become speaker made it almost impossible for him to succeed as speaker.

McCarthy, the son of a firefighter and a homemaker, has long depicted himself as a tireless battler. He is fond of quoting his father, who told him, Its not how you start, its how you finish.

McCarthy is from a Republican-leaning area in Central California where oil derricks blanket hillsides and country music fans pack into Buck Owens Crystal Palace hall. Far from the Southern California beaches and San Francisco's restaurants, farming and oil pumping shape the economy.

It wasn't immediately clear what would happen with the vacancy, which could have implications for Republican control. Only a handful of seats separates the two parties.

In California, Friday is the last day for candidates to file paperwork to enter the 2024 elections. If the vacancy occurs before the end of that period, Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom would be required to call a special election to fill McCarthy's seat.

If McCarthy steps down after that time, it would be up to the governor to decide whether to call a special election.

McCarthy has been credited with helping recruit a new, more diverse generation of GOP House members, including in his home state, where the delegation includes two South Korean immigrants, both women.

Rep. Carlos Gimenez, R-Fla., was handpicked by McCarthy in 2020 to run for a House seat that had swung back and forth between Democrats and Republicans for several elections. McCarthys instinct turned out to be right and Gimenez won that election over an incumbent Democrat.

I surely will miss him, but I think the House will miss him more, Gimenez said.

He said McCarthys departure could put House Republicans at a financial disadvantage in their efforts to keep the majority.

Nobody could raise funds like Kevin McCarthy could. To replace him at this point, at this short time for the next election, thats an impossible task for Speaker Johnson. If he comes even close, I will take my hat off to him.

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A planned high-speed rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area got a Biden administration pledge on Tuesday of $3 billion to help start laying track, Nevada elected officials said.

The $12 billion project led by Brightline West has been talked about for decades, and U.S. Sen. Jacky Rosen told reporters that it now has all required right-of-way and environmental approvals, along with labor agreements, for work to start on some 218 miles (351 kilometers) along the Interstate 15 corridor.

No date was announced for work to start. But Rosen said electric-powered trains could be carrying passengers by the time Los Angeles hosts the Summer Olympics in 2028.

Were ready to get to work, Wes Edens, founder and chairman of Florida-based Brightline, said in a statement ahead of a Friday event in Las Vegas that may coincide with a visit by President Joe Biden.

Rosen and U.S. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, both Democrats, led a bipartisan group including all of Nevadas elected federal lawmakers and four House members from California that in April urged Biden to commit up to $3.75 billion in federal infrastructure funds toward what they call a public-private partnership.

Planners say trains carrying passengers at nearly 200 mph (322 kph) could cut in half a four-hour freeway trip from a station in Las Vegas through Victorville, California, to a suburban Los Angeles light rail line in the San Bernardino County city of Rancho Cucamonga.

They say the service could help alleviate weekend or end-of-holiday travel traffic jams that often stretch for 15 miles (24 kilometers) on I-15 near the Nevada-California line.

Connecting Las Vegas and Southern California by high-speed rail will create tens of thousands of good-paying union jobs, boost our Southern Nevada tourism economy, and finally help us cut down on I-15 traffic, Cortez Masto said Tuesday in a statement.

Calls for a high-speed rail line whisking tourists through the Mojave Desert to Las Vegas date at least to 2001, said U.S. Rep. Dina Titus, a Democrat who represents the Las Vegas Strip. The proposal had starts, stops and various names over the years, before getting sidetracked during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Florida-based Brightline Holdings LLC, which built the only privately-owned and operated intercity passenger railroad in the U.S., is expected to model the line on service it began in 2014 on Floridas east coast. That route now links Miami and Orlando with trains reaching speeds up to 125 mph (200 kph).

Other places where high-speed trains have been proposed include the 240 miles (386 kilometers) in Texas between Dallas and Houston, and a 500-mile (805-kilometer) system linking Los Angeles and San Francisco that has faced swelling costs, funding questions and other delays.

(AP)




The Biden administration has made a new and significant offer aimed at securing the release of American detainees Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich, but Russia has rejected the offer, the State Department said Tuesday.

Spokesman Matthew Miller did not reveal the details of the offer nor why Russia had turned it down, but the revelation of the proposal was a fresh indication that Washington is continuing to try to negotiate with Moscow to get both men home.

This was a new proposal, in recent weeks. It was a significant proposal, Miller said. And it was rejected by the Russians but it does not, it will not deter us from continuing to do everything we can to try and bring both of them home.

The U.S. government has declared both Whelan and Gershkovich to be wrongfully detained.

Whelan, a corporate security executive from Michigan, has been jailed in Russia since his December 2018 arrest on espionage-related charges that both he and the U.S. government dispute. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison,

Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter, was detained in March while on a reporting trip to the Russian city of Yekaterinburg, about 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) east of Moscow.

Gershkovich and the Journal deny the allegations, and Russian authorities havent detailed any evidence to support the espionage charges. A Russian court last week extended the detention until Jan. 30.

They never should have been arrested in the first place. They should be released immediately, Miller said. But we have made a number of proposals and including a substantial one in recent weeks and we will continue to work every day to bring Evan and Paul Whelan home. There is no prior higher priority for the Secretary of State. There is no higher priority for the president.

In July 2022, Secretary of State Antony Blinken revealed that the U.S. had made a substantial proposal to Moscow to get home WNBA star Brittney Griner and Whelan. Griner was ultimately released in December in a prisoner swap with notorious Russian arms trafficker Viktor Bout, but Whelan was not part of the deal.

(AP)




The U.S. on Tuesday imposed sanctions on a Belgian involved in procuring electronics for the Russian military, his companies and a group of Belarusian firms and people tied to Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control targeted a network led by Belgium-based Hans De Geetere, which included nine entities and five people across Russia, Belgium, Cyprus, Sweden, Hong Kong, and the Netherlands. They are accused of being involved with procuring military-grade equipment for Russia.

Also on Tuesday, the U.S. Justice Department unsealed two indictments against Hans De Geetere and the Commerce Department added him and five firms to its entity list.

U.S. sanctions block access to U.S. property and bank accounts and prevent the targeted people and companies from doing business with Americans.

De Geetere did not respond to an Associated Press request for comment through email.

State Department spokesperson Matt Miller said the U.S. is committed to working with our allies and partners to expose and degrade networks engaged in Russias military procurement and will continue to take actions against the Russias military-industrial complex to disrupt the Kremlins access (to) the tools it uses to perpetuate its illegal war against Ukraine.

Additionally, U.S. Treasury sanctioned 11 entities and 8 people tied to the Alyaksandr Lukashenka regime for its suppression of Belarusian democratic civil society, corrupt financial enrichment of the Lukashenka family, and complicity in Russias war against Ukraine, a Treasury statement reads.

Todays action reaffirms our efforts to hold Lukashenka, his family, and his regime accountable for their anti-democratic actions and human rights abuses, both in Belarus and around the world, said Brian Nelson, Treasurys under-secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence.

We will continue to target the Lukashenka regimes revenue generators, his so-called personal wallets, and actors who facilitate Russias war of aggression in Ukraine, coordinate the movement of children from Ukraine to Belarus, and support Lukashenkas authoritarian regime, Nelson said.

(AP)




Air Force Special Operations Command said Tuesday it has identified the eight service members lost when their Osprey crashed off the coast of Japan last week and was now focused on recovering all of their bodies and the aircraft debris.

The CV-22B Osprey crashed on Nov. 29 during a training mission. Ospreys have had a number of crashes, including in Japan, where they are used at U.S. and Japanese military bases, and the latest accident has rekindled safety concerns.

On Monday, the Air Force said six of the eight crew members remains had been located. Three of those have been recovered. The two lost crew members were unlikely to have survived and the search for their remains was continuing, the Air Force said Tuesday.

The depth of sorrow is immeasurable, Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, who heads Air Force Special Operations Command, said in a statement announcing the names of the crew. The honorable service of these eight airmen to this great nation will never be forgotten, as they are now among the giants who shape our history.

President Joe Biden said he and first lady Jill Biden were heartbroken by the loss.

We owe them everything, Biden said in a statement. Jill and I are praying for the families and friends who lost a loved one in this terrible accident.

The lost crew members include:

U.S. Air Force Maj. Jeffrey T. Hoernemann, 32, of Andover, Minnesota, was a CV-22 instructor pilot and officer in charge of training, assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Eric V. Spendlove, 36, of St. George, Utah, was a residency trained flight surgeon and medical operations flight commander assigned to the 1st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Kadena Air Base, Japan.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Luke A. Unrath, 34, of Riverside, California, was a CV-22 pilot and flight commander assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Terrell K. Brayman, 32, of Pittsford, New York, was a CV-22 pilot and flight commander assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Zachary E. Lavoy, 33, of Oviedo, Florida, was a medical operations flight chief assigned to the 1st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Kadena Air Base, Japan.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jake M. Turnage, 25, of Kennesaw, Georgia, was a flight engineer assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Brian K. Johnson, 32, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, was a flight engineer assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, Yokota Air Base, Japan.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jacob Jake M. Galliher, 24, was a native of Pittsfield, Mass. His remains were the first to be found.

The U.S.-made Osprey is a hybrid aircraft that takes off and lands like a helicopter but can rotate its propellers forward and cruise much faster, like an airplane, during flight.

Japan has suspended all flights of its own fleet of 14 Ospreys. Japanese officials say they have asked the U.S. military to resume Osprey flights only after ensuring their safety. The Pentagon said no such formal request has been made and that the U.S. military is continuing to fly 24 MV-22s, the Marine version of Ospreys, deployed on the southern Japanese island of Okinawa.

On Sunday, pieces of wreckage that Japans coast guard and local fishing boats have collected were handed over to the U.S. military for examination, coast guard officials said. Japans military said debris it has collected would also be handed over to the U.S.

(AP)




Rep. Thomas Massie (R  KY) posted an antisemitic meme on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday that pits American Patriotism against Zionism. The post has garnered significant and well-deserved negative attention and criticism from both sides of the political aisle.

In the meme, rapper Drake, labeled as Congress These Days, is shown rejecting American Patriotism while embracing Zionism. This portrayal by Massie, known for his anti-Israel stance, quickly ignited a firestorm of backlash online, drawing bipartisan criticism.

Thomas Massie, a House Republican, is pitting American patriotism against Zionism. Most Americans are both pro-America and pro-Israel and see no contradiction between the two, Rep. Ritchie Torres replied to the post.

Will Thomas Massie be booted off committees or will he face censure the way that Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib were for their comments about Israel? Or will it be different because Mike Johnson needs Massies vote? asked MSNBC columnist Eric Michael Garcia.

You know who did like the post, though? Stew Peters, a far-right conspiracy theorist and anti-Semite. Peters, who has previously claimed that Israel is running our country, endorsed Massies meme. Peters has a long history of antisemitic remarks and is friends with neo-Nazi Nick Fuentes.

Joel Pollak, senior editor-at-large at Breitbart News, wrote, Never go full antisemite.

Halie Sofier, the head of the Jewish Democratic Council of America, commented, Last week, Republican @RepThomasMassie was the only member of Congress to vote against a resolution recognizing Israels right to exist & condemning Hamas. This week, hes invoking antisemitic tropes (& Drake) to claim Congress is blinded by support of Israel. Shame on him.

And White House Deputy Communications Director Herbie Ziskend said, All Americans  including House GOP leadership  should condemn this virulent Antisemitism from a sitting member of Congress.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




If anything could be more mindboggling than the video of the presidents of so-called elite US universities failing to unequivocally condemn calls for the genocide of the Jewish people, it is the video below, in which those same presidents maintained complete silence when asked what they have done to address antisemitism on their campuses.

At a time when antisemitism has risen to unprecedented levels around the world and in the US, especially on college campuses, presidents of universities that proudly boast support groups for every perversion and identity under the sun, simply ignore the plight of a large percentage of their student bodies, many of whom are so fearful that they hide their Jewish identities.

U.S. Rep. John James (R-MI) prefaced the following video by stating: I questioned college presidents from Harvard, UPenn, and MIT about the disturbing rise of antisemitism on college campuses across America as a result of Oct 7. Guess what happened when I asked what they were doing on campus to address antisemitism? I got SILENCE.

Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said on Wednesday: The presidents of the worlds most respected universities legitimize anti-Semitism and refuse to say that calling for the murder of Jews is against the rules of their universities.

This is a dangerous and sad moment. It is absurd that places that are supposed to be a moral beacon have become a breeding ground for hatred.

Every American who believes in the values on which the United States was founded should shake off the alarming statements, and I thank Congresswoman Stefanik for her clear stance against them. Anyone who allows anti-Semitism should not be permitted to stay one day in his position!

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




Just how hard did some Republican members of Congress work to keep President Donald Trump in office after his 2020 election loss? A court case is providing a few tantalizing clues.

Snippets and short summaries of texts and emails sent by Rep. Scott Perry of Pennsylvania, a top Trump ally, have emerged publicly for the first time as part of a court filing that was unsealed  perhaps inadvertently  by the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., as part of a legal battle with federal prosecutors.

The messages reveal more about what investigators want to know, what actions Perry took in the weeks after the election and where Perry may fit in the web of Trump loyalists who were central to his bid to remain in power.

It was Perrys efforts to elevate Jeffrey Clark to Trumps acting attorney general  and likely reverse the Department of Justices stance that it had found no evidence of widespread voting fraud that would change the election  that have made him a figure of interest to federal prosecutors.

Perry, in the past, has said he merely obliged Trumps request that he be introduced to Clark.

But the messages suggest that Perry was a key ally for Clark, providing encouragement as he sought to win Trumps favor. At one point Perry told a nervous Clark that you are the man and seemingly helped him prep for an important meeting and secure a higher security clearance.

The court filing with Perrys messages was unsealed last week  then resealed in a move the court has yet to explain. Copies of the filing were downloaded and posted online by news organizations and others.

Perrys cellphone was seized by federal authorities last year as part of the investigation into attempts to subvert the results of the 2020 election and block the transfer of power to Democrat Joe Biden.

Details of the case have remained largely secret. But the filing offered new details about the legal reasoning and arguments in the case that some observers found revealing.

I would say we learned a great deal from that, said Grayson Clary, a staff attorney at the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, which has pressed for transparency in the case.

What more information, exactly, will emerge from the seizure of Perrys cellphone remains to be seen.

Judges continue to weigh which of Perrys hundreds of texts and emails are constitutionally protected by Perrys status as a member of Congress, and which of them are fair game for the FBI because they fell outside his duties as a member of the legislative branch.

Congressional inquiries have shown that Perrys efforts to promote Clark came as Trump pressured members of the Department of Justice to challenge the 2020 election. At the time, Perry was also pressing Justice Department officials to investigate a variety of election fraud claims in Pennsylvania  claims that officials and the courts dismissed as baseless.

In one text exchange on Dec. 30, Perry texted Clark that Trump seems very happy with your response. I read it just as you dictated, the unsealed-then-resealed court filing said.

Clark responded, Im praying. This makes me quite nervous. And wonder if Im worthy or ready. Perry responded, You are the man. I have confirmed it. God does what he does for a reason.

The two then discussed when Trump would pull the trigger on something new and make an absolute decision, the court filing said.

Perry later prepped Clark for a meeting with the director of national intelligence and suggested he knew Trump had moved to boost Clarks security clearance.

POTUS is giving you a presidential security clearance, Perry told Clark in a text.

At the time, Clark was the assistant attorney general of the Environment and Natural Resources Division and served as the acting head of the Civil Division.

Weeks before, Attorney General William Barr had refuted Trumps campaign of baseless lies about election fraud, telling The Associated Press that the Justice Department had uncovered nothing that could change the outcome of the 2020 election.

But, by Christmas, Barr had resigned and Trump was searching for a like-minded successor to use the Department of Justice to help stall the certification of the election.

To that end, Clark had drafted a letter that he suggested sending to Georgia saying the Department of Justice had identified signicant concerns that may have impacted the outcome of the election in multiple states, including the state of Georgia, according to the August indictment in that state accusing Trump, Clark and 17 others of trying illegally to keep him in power.

Top department officials refused to sign it or send the letter, prosecutors said, and the showdown over Clarks plan brought the Justice Department to the brink of crisis.

In a contentious meeting on Jan. 3, 2021 in the Oval Office, Trump toyed with elevating Clark to acting attorney general, but backed down after he was told that it would result in mass resignations at the Justice Department and his own White House counsels office.

Clark is now described in the federal indictment of Trump as one of six unnamed and unindicted co-conspirators in an effort to illegally subvert the 2020 election.

Perry has not been charged with a crime and has said investigators told his attorneys that he is not the target of the investigation. Meanwhile, Perry was one of four House Republicans who were referred to the House Ethics committee after they refused to cooperate with subpoenas from the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Amid it all, Perrys influence in Congress has since grown.

He is now the chairman of the Freedom Caucus, a hardline faction of conservatives that exerts outsize influence on the GOP majority. Several members of the group were instrumental in the ouster of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy this fall, and its members remain closely aligned with Trump.

Perry is also the only sitting member of Congress whose cellphone was seized by the FBI in the 2020 election investigation.

Perrys lawyer called the courts unsealing unfortunate and argued that the communications should be constitutionally protected from release.

The communications reflect his efforts to understand real-time information about the 2020 election, Perrys lawyer, John Rowley, said in a statement. They were confidential and intended to address critical business before Congress in service of his constituents.

(AP)




Russian President Vladimir Putin began a trip Wednesday to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, hoping to shore up support in the Mideast from two major oil producers allied to the U.S. as his war on Ukraine grinds on.

Putin landed in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the Emirates, a federation of seven sheikhdoms now hosting the United Nations COP28 climate talks. It marked his first trip to the region since before the coronavirus pandemic and the war  and as he faces an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court over the war in Ukraine.

Neither Saudi Arabia nor the UAE has signed the ICC founding treaty, meaning they dont face any obligation to detain Putin over the warrant accusing him of being personally responsible for the abductions of children from Ukraine during his war on the country. Putin skipped a summit in South Africa over concerns he could be arrested on arrival there.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAEs foreign minister, met a smiling Putin after he bounded down the stairs of his presidential plane. As he arrived at Abu Dhabis Qasr al-Watan palace to meet Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the countrys ruler, the UAEs military acrobatics team flew in formation with red, white and blue smoke trailing them in the colors of the Russian flag.

Im happy to meet you again, Sheikh Mohammed said as he sat with Putin in the palace.

Soldiers on horseback and with camels lined his arrival route, Russian and Emirati flags also hanging from lampposts.

Four Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets accompanied Putins plane on the flight to the Emirates, Russian state-run media reported.

The pageantry in the Emirates, which relies on the U.S. as its major security partner, highlights the UAEs expansive business ties to Russia that have exploded since grinding Western sanctions targeted Moscow.

Ukrainians on hand for the event expressed outrage over Putin being in the country at the same time they described him as committing environmental crimes in their country.

It is extremely upsetting to see how the world treats war criminals, because thats what he is, in my opinion, said Marharyta Bohdanova, a worker at the Ukrainian pavilion at the COP28 climate summit, wiping away tears. Seeing how people let people like him in the big events,  treating him like a dear guest, is just so hypocritical in my opinion.

Officials at Russias pavilion at the talks declined to speak to The Associated Press. U.S. climate envoy John Kerry and U.S. Agency for International Development administrator Samantha Power made a point to tour Ukraines pavilion at COP28 before being scheduled to address a news conference later Wednesday afternoon.

Putin last visited the UAE in 2019, receiving a warm welcome from Sheikh Mohammed, then the crown prince of Abu Dhabi. In the time since, however, the world has greatly changed.

The Russian president isolated himself during the coronavirus pandemic. He launched an invasion targeting Ukraine in February 2022, a grinding war that continues today and has been a topic for Ukrainian diplomats at the COP28 talks.

Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war remains a major concern for the Mideast, particularly the UAE, which reached a diplomatic recognition with Israel in 2020. Recent attacks by Yemens Iranian-backed Houthi rebels also threatens commercial shipping in the Red Sea as Irans nuclear program continues its rapid advances since the collapse of the 2016 nuclear deal.

Putin is scheduled to meet with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Thursday for what Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov has described as a rather lengthy conversation. The two countries have been discussing ways to get around the Western sanctions targeting them.

Putin will travel to Saudi Arabia and meet with powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the one-day trip, Ushakov said. Those discussions likely will focus on Moscows other major concern in the Middle East  oil.

Russia is part of OPEC+, which is a group of cartel members and other nations that have managed production to try and boost crude oil prices. Last week, the group expanded some output cuts into next year and brought up-and-coming oil supplier Brazil into the fold. Benchmark Brent crude traded Wednesday around $77 a barrel, down from nearly $100 in September, over concerns about a weakening economy worldwide.

The visit comes after a parade of Western leaders including U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and others backing Ukraine spoke at COP28. So did Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, long a Putin ally.

A readout on Putins trip from the state-run Tass news agency published early Wednesday offered no suggestion he might come to the COP28 site, instead quoting Ushakov saying hed land and have a meeting at the palace and one-on-one talks with Sheikh Mohammed. Still, some reports suggest Putin could make an appearance at the climate talks.

The U.N.s Framework Convention on Climate Changes spokesperson Alexander Saier told a news conference Monday morning that he was not aware that Mr. Putin will come to the conference, but I would also need to check the host country with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He declined to answer whether U.N. police would be obligated to make an arrest.

The Emirati organization committee for COP28 referred questions to the UAEs Foreign Ministry, which did not respond. The UAE repeatedly feted the now-deposed Sudanese leader Omar al-Bashir in the past despite an ICC warrant seeking his arrest on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity in Darfur.

Im talking about his crimes and this person is literally right now here, somewhere near me, said Alina Abramenko, another worker at the Ukrainian pavilion that highlights the environmental damage wrought by the war. You know, its really strange.

(AP)




A new guide from the Department of Homeland Security released Wednesday aims to help churches, synagogues, mosques and other houses of worship protect themselves at a time of heightened tensions in faith-based communities across the country.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, an arm of Homeland Security, works with faith groups across the country to help them prepare for and prevent targeted violence against their facilities and their members. David Mussington, whos in charge of infrastructure security at CISA, says the goal of the 16-page document is to give useable information in a format thats easy to understand.

Its designed to be clear, to be less jargon-filled and to provide guidance and assistance in getting assistance from us, Mussington said.

The guidance, dubbed Physical Security Performance Goals for Faith-Based Communities, outlines how faith groups can better protect themselves: keeping landscaping like hedges trimmed to prevent hiding places for attackers, for example, or only giving out necessary information during livestreams of services.

It also talks about having a plan in place for when something happens, such as having a predetermined spot where people can go and having a dedicated location for the faith community to memorialize people affected by what happened. Theres also information about federal government grants that houses of worship can apply for to pay for security improvements as well as other resources the department has developed to help communities.

Mussington said the guidelines have been in the works for months in response to concerns his agency has heard from various faiths about how to protect themselves.

In this continued heightened threat environment, the Department of Homeland Security is committed to protecting every Americans right to live, express, and worship their faith freely and in safety, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement. The physical security performance goals we are releasing today provide churches, synagogues, mosques, and other faith-based institutions with cost-effective, accessible, and readily implementable strategies to enhance their security and reduce the risk to their communities.

The guidance will be distributed via CISA offices around the country and the agencys network of roughly 125 protective security advisers across the country who work with various communities to provide security advice.

The guidance comes at a time of deep unease in many communities of faith across America. Jewish communities across the country have been worried about rising antisemitism even before the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, taking efforts to defend their synagogues and communities. Since the Hamas attack, Mayorkas said, his agency has responded to an increase in threats against Jewish, Muslim, and Arab American communities in the U.S.

(AP)




On the brink of joining NATO, Sweden has signed a defense cooperation agreement with Washington that will allow the United States access to all of the military bases across the Scandinavian country, saying the deal would bolster regional security.

Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson said the deal, signed in Washington Tuesday, will create better conditions for Sweden to be able to receive support from the United States in the event of a war or crisis.

Jonson told Swedish broadcaster SVT that it didnt mean that all 17 locations will be used but where it is most important from a military perspective for them to be able to store defense equipment, for example.

The deal was signed at the Pentagon by Jonson and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin who said that by adding the capabilities of the Swedish armed forces to NATO, we will get even stronger.

The deal sends a strong signal that we remain committed to addressing security challenges together, Austin said.

Swedens strategically important Baltic Sea island of Gotland sits a little more than 300 kilometers (186 miles) from the Russian Baltic Sea exclave of Kaliningrad.

The United States struck a similar deal with Swedens western neighbor, NATO member Norway, in 2021 and is currently negotiating such an agreement with NATO members Finland and Denmark, two other Nordic countries.

Sweden and its neighbor Finland decided to drop their long-standing policy of non-alignment and apply for NATO membership following Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year. Finland joined NATO in April.

New members must be approved by all existing members of the alliance. Turkey and Hungary are the only NATO countries that have not formally approved Swedens accession bid.

Turkey has delayed ratification for more than a year, accusing Sweden of not taking Turkeys security concerns seriously enough, including its fight against Kurdish militants and other groups that Ankara considers to be security threats.

In comments published Wednesday by state-run Anadolu Agency, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan linked the ratification of Swedens NATO membership to the approval by the U.S. Congress of Turkeys request to purchase 40 F-16 fighter jets and kits to modernize its existing fleet.

The request has been backed by the White House but run into opposition in Congress.

I fulfilled my duty, but I also expect something from you, Erdogan told a group of journalists, on his way back from Qatar where he attended the 44th Gulf Cooperation Council Council summit. You (the United States) should pass the (F-16s) issue simultaneously in your Congress.

Last week, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said he told Turkeys president that the time has come to let Sweden become a member of the military alliance.

(AP)
The American University in Cairo (AUC) announced that Sherif Kamel, dean of the School of Business Administration, has joined the Board of Directors of the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) as a financial expert, read an AUC statement on Wednesday.

Kamel holds bachelor's and masters degrees in business administration, an MBA, a master's degree in Islamic art and architecture from AUC, and a PhD in information systems from the London School of Economics and Political Science.

He is a member of the American Chamber of Commerce in Egypt's Board of Governors and previously served as the boards president from 2019 to 2021.

Kamel's journey at the AUC spans more than 40 years, during which he earned three academic degrees and spent nearly three decades as a faculty member.

In late November, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi issued a presidential decree to establish a new board of directors of the CBE, led by Hassan Abdallah, currently the acting governor of the bank, for one year starting 27 November.

The new board includes Rami Ahmed Adel Abul-Naga and Tarek Mohamed Badawy El-Kholy as deputy governors of the CBE. The board also comprised other prominent figures and experts.

President El-Sisi renewed in August the mandate for Abdallah as the acting governor of the CBE.

Abdallah was appointed in August 2022 after his successor, Tarek Amer, resigned amid an economic crunch exacerbated by the war in Ukraine.

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The former Alaska Airlines pilot accused of trying to cut the engines of a Horizon Air flight has been indicted on 84 endangerment charges, but is no longer charged with attempted murder, authorities said Tuesday.

The district attorneys office in Oregons Multnomah County, home to Portland, announced the grand jurys indictment. Joseph Emerson is scheduled to be arraigned Thursday on 83 charges of recklessly endangering another person  for each person who was on the plane  and one charge of endangering an aircraft. He previously pleaded not guilty to attempted murder charges filed by state prosecutors and to a federal charge of interfering with a flight crew.

In Oregon, initial felony charges can be filed by prosecutors pending a grand jurys indictment. Such indictments can include different charges, depending on what the grand jury believes is supported by the evidence.

Emersons defense lawyers welcomed the grand jurys decision.

The attempted murder charges were never appropriate in this case because Captain Emerson never intended to hurt another person or put anyone at risk  he just wanted to return home to his wife and children, his defense lawyers Ethan Levi, Noah Horst and Norah Van Dusen said in a statement. Simply put: Captain Emerson thought he was in a dream.

Prosecutors have accused Emerson of trying to cut the engines on an Oct. 22 flight from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco while riding in the extra seat in the cockpit. After what the flight crew described as a brief struggle, Emerson left the cockpit, the FBI said in an affidavit. Flight attendants placed Emerson in wrist restraints and seated him in the rear of the aircraft, the affidavit said.

The plane was diverted to Portland, where it landed safely with more than 80 people on board.

According to charging documents, Emerson told Port of Portland police following his arrest that he had been struggling with depression, that a friend had recently died and that he had taken psychedelic mushrooms about 48 hours before he attempted to cut the engines. He also said he had not slept in more than 40 hours, according to the document.

The averted disaster renewed attention on cockpit safety and the mental fitness of those allowed in them.

Emerson remains in custody in Multnomah County.

(AP)




Two months after his historic ouster as House speaker, Republican Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California announced on Wednesday that he is resigning from his congressional seat and will leave by the end of the year.

His announcement capped a stunning end for the one-time deli counter owner from Bakersfield, who ascended through state and national politics to become second in line to the presidency before a contingent of hard-right conservatives engineered his removal in October.

McCarthy is the only speaker in history to be voted out of the job.

No matter the odds, or personal cost, we did the right thing, McCarthy wrote in an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal, announcing his decision.

It is in this spirit that I have decided to depart the House at the end of this year to serve America in new ways, he wrote.

An announcement on McCarthys future had been expected, days before the filing deadline to seek reelection. But his decision ricocheted across Capitol Hill, where his departure will leave the already paper-thin House GOP majority even tighter, with just a few seats to spare.

It comes during a wave of retirements in the House, which has been riven by Republican infighting, and the rare expulsion last week of indicted GOP Rep. George Santos of New York, dashing hopes for major accomplishments and leaving the majority straining to conduct the basic business of governing.

McCarthy had brought the Republicans into the majority but found it was much more difficult to lead the GOPs hard-edged factions.

His toppling from the chambers top post was fueled by grievances from his partys hard-right flank, including over his decision to work with Democrats to keep the federal government open rather than risk a shutdown.

McCarthy, 58, arrived in the House in January 2007 after a stint in the California Assembly, where he served as minority leader. In Congress, he maneuvered through his partys hierarchy  serving as majority whip and Republican leader along the way  before being elected speaker in January 2023.

The dayslong floor fight that preceded his elevation to the Houses top job foreshadowed a stormy tenure, at a time when former President Donald Trump remained the de facto leader of the party and deep divisions within the GOP raised serious questions about the partys ability to govern.

It took a record 15 votes over four days for McCarthy to line up the support he needed to win the post he had long coveted, finally prevailing on a 216-212 vote with Democrats backing leader Hakeem Jeffries and six Republican holdouts voting present. Not since the Civil War era has a speakers vote dragged through so many rounds of counting.

McCarthy emerged from the fight weakened, especially considering Republicans held only a fragile margin in the chamber after a predicted red wave failed to materialize in the 2022 elections.

Once installed as speaker, his well-known savvy for fundraising and political glad-handing appeared ill-suited for corralling his partys disputatious hard-right faction. And deals he cut to become speaker  including a rules change that allowed any single lawmaker to file a motion to remove him  left him vulnerable.

When he became speaker, he faced new challenges that required a different skill set, said Claremont McKenna College political scientist Jack Pitney, a one-time domestic policy analyst for House Republicans. And the deals he made to become speaker made it almost impossible for him to succeed as speaker.

McCarthy, the son of a firefighter and a homemaker, has long depicted himself as an unflagging battler. He is fond of quoting his father, who told him, Its not how you start, its how you finish.

McCarthy hails from Bakersfield, a Republican-leaning area in Central California where oil derricks blanket hillsides and country music fans pack into Buck Owens Crystal Palace hall. Far from the Southern California beaches and tony San Francisco restaurants, farming and oil pumping shape the economy.

(AP)




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One of the hundreds of rockets launched by Hamas from the Gaza Strip on October 7th struck an Israeli Air Force base in central Israel that is home to some of Israels nuclear-capable missiles, the New York Times reports.

According to the report, satellite imagery confirmed that one of these rockets hit the Sdot Micha airbase, located near Beit Shemesh, during the intense rocket attacks by Hamas on the southern regions of Israel.

The impact of the rocket strike sparked a fire that approached areas housing Jericho missile storage sites and other sensitive weaponry. The Jericho missiles are designed to carry nuclear warheads.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




What do you do when youre off in the Gaza Strip battling Hamas, but your sons bris milah is taking place? You join via video call, of course.

Thats what an IDF soldier currently fighting with his unit against the terrorist group did, joining the bris of his own son by way of a video call.

In the video below, the father can be seen making the bracha as the bris gets underway.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




Prof. Itai Pessach, the director of the Safra Childrens Center at Sheba Medical Center, treated about 30 hostages released from captivity in Gaza.

The travails of captivity could be seen on them, they were depleted and weak, he said in an interview with Channel 12 News. Strong in mind and weak in body. Some had injuries from the abduction and some with problems they suffered from throughout their captivity..

All of them experienced psychological abuse that is difficult to describe and many of them have also experienced other types of abuse, very severe.

Were not telling the stories. Theyre not our stories to tell. Were helping professionals and were there for them. When the time comes, when they want, they will tell their stories. When they do so, I dont think any of us will be able to sleep at night.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




Hamas on Tuesday published footage of what it claims to be an Israeli military encampment in the Gaza Strip. The video was purportedly taken from a tunnel the IDF was unaware of just feet away from the makeshift base.

Hamas said that it attacked the IDF encampment, though there is no way to confirm that.

It is also impossible to verify whether the footage published by Hamas is authentic, current, and not spliced or otherwise edited.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen has declared the cancellation of a U.N. officials residence visa in Israel, citing her lack of condemnation towards Hamas attacks on Israel.

In a statement released on X Tuesday, Cohen expressed his stance against what he perceives as UN bias. I decided to revoke the residence visa to Israel of the UN humanitarian coordinator Lynn Hastings, he announced.

Cohen criticized Hastings for not speaking out against Hamas for a series of actions, including the killing of 1,200 Israelis, kidnappings, and other severe abuses. He argued that her failure to condemn these actions, while criticizing Israel, a democratic nation defending its citizens, disqualifies her from serving in the UN and entering Israel.

We will no longer be silent in the face of the bias of the UN! Cohen stated.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




President Joe Biden on Tuesday forcefully denounced the reported assaults against Israeli girls and women by Hamas terrorists following the Oct. 7 attack on Israel, calling on the world to condemn such conduct without equivocation and without exception.

Speaking at a campaign fundraiser in Boston, Biden noted that in recent weeks, female survivors and witnesses to the attacks have shared horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty.

Reports of women [assaulted]  repeatedly [assaulted]  and their bodies being mutilated while still alive  of women corpses being desecrated, Hamas terrorists inflicting as much pain and suffering on women and girls as possible and then murdering them, Biden said. It is appalling.

Israel has said it is investigating several cases of assault from the Hamas attack on Israel. Witnesses and medical experts have said that Hamas terrorists committed a series of attacks against women before killing the victims in the Oct. 7 attack.

Experts have been piecing together evidence in recent weeks in a case that is complicated because there are no known victims to testify and limited forensic evidence.

Bidens comments come as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government has sought to put greater focus on the violence against women it says Hamas committed during the Oct. 7 attack that killed some 1,200 people on Israeli soil and led to another 240 being taken hostage. Some recently released hostages have shared testimonies of assault and abuse during their time in Gaza.

Netanyahu railed against the lack of international response during a press conference on Tuesday evening.

I say to the womens rights organizations, to the human rights organizations, youve heard of the [assault] of Israeli women, horrible atrocities mutilation  where the hell are you? asked Netanyahu.

Israel hosted a special event at the United Nations on Monday where former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, and former Meta chief operating officer Sheryl Sandberg were among those who criticized what they called a global failure to support women who were assaulted and in some cases killed.

The comments from Biden came one day after White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre called the terrorists assaults on women reprehensible.

Jean-Pierre, who underscored that she was speaking on behalf of the president, was responding to a question about comments made by Rep. Pramila Jayapal, a California Democrat, during a CNN interview in which she responded to a question about assault by Palestinian militants by saying, I think we have to be balanced about bringing in the outrages against Palestinians, 15,000 Palestinians have been killed.

As a senator, Biden was the author of the Violence Against Women Act, which was signed into law in 1994. He referenced his work on the issue as a lawmaker as he spoke out against the allegations of assaults on females by Hamas.

The world cant just look away at whats going on, Biden told donors. He added, Its on all of us  government, international organizations, civil society and businesses  to forcefully condemn the violence [against women] of Hamas terrorists without equivocation. Without equivocation, without exception.

(AP)




The IDF announced the deaths of two additional soldiers killed amid the fighting in Gaza. Their deaths bring the IDFs ground operation death toll to 83 and 410 since October 7th.

The soldiers were identified as:

 Seargent (res.) Yehonatan Malka, 23, a soldier in the 82nd Battalion.

 Lt. Col. (res.) Yochai Gur Hershberg, 52, commander of the Missing Persons Locating Unit in the Fire Brigade (Division 98), killed in a military car accident in the south of Israel.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Global physically backed gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) declined by $920 million, or nine tons, month-on-month, in November, to 3,236 tons, despite the latest gains in gold prices, according to a report by the World Gold Council, (WGC).

The decline in November pushed the year-to-date value in outflows from global gold ETFs to $14 billion, the report showed.

A big portion of the drop in outflows can be ascribed to Europe and North America regions. In North America, the surge in treasury yields drew the carpet from under the gold ETFs which lost $9 billion in outflows between June and October.

Europes outflows amounted to $9 billion in the last 11 months.

Asia remains the only region experiencing YTD inflows ($1 billion), thanks to China, Japan, and India. Accumulated outflows from the other region reached $103 million YDT: inflows into Turkey were outweighed by outflows elsewhere, WGC said in its November report.

Gold prices inched up 0.5 percent to $2,029.45 per ounce on Wednesday.

Since the eruption of the Israeli war on Gaza in early October, gold prices have steadily increased from approximately $1,900 per ounce to $2,069.01 on Monday.

According to a report by Dahab Masr, the precious metal is expected to surpass $2,200 before the end of the second quarter of 2024.

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A report in The Washington Post on Tuesday said that although Israel says it has killed at least 5,000 Hamas terrorists, the terror group, which has an estimated 30,000 terrorists, remains largely intact.

The report, entitled Israel Has Vowed To Destroy Hamas. Yet The Group Remains Largely Intact, says that the IDF has not even entered some of Hamass key strongholds in the northern Gaza Strip.

The deadliest battle may be ahead of us, the report quoted Michael A. Horowitz, head of intelligence at risk consultancy Le Beck International. Horowitz said that he thinks that although Hamas has seemed to avoid direct confrontations until now, soon Hamas are going to be cornered and they are going to have to fight.

Most likely theres going to be some form of a lower-level counterinsurgency campaign for the coming months, he said regarding the wars continuation in the southern Gaza Strip.

An Israeli security official confirmed Horowitzs assessment: Our operations will be very different to how weve operated in Gaza City because it is much more overcrowded, he said.

The report noted that despite the thousands of Hamas terrorists still alive and kicking, Israels main goal is to eliminate Hamas leaders, particularly Yehiya Sinwar, the Hamas chief in Gaza, whom Israel called a dead man walking.

They are the ones who are their symbols; theyre the ones who have the authority to rule the Strip, said Eyal Hulata, the head of Israels National Security Council until earlier this year. So thats the main operational goal at the moment, and theyve all fled to the south, thats very clear.

Reports in Israel on Wednesday that IDF troops have surrounded Sinwars home in Khan Younis. However, Sinwar, who owns multiple homes, is in hiding and there is little chance he is in the building.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




A meeting took place on Tuesday between members of the war cabinet and members of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which represents some of the relatives of hostages being held in Gaza.

Some of the released hostages attended the meeting and some provided disturbing testimony about the abuse they were subject to in Gaza, including sexual abuse. Additionally, the female hostages attested that the male hostages are being held in much worse conditions than the women were.

Sadly, the members of the war cabinet said that currently there are no options on the table for further hostages to be released, with the military operations in Gaza the only hope of applying pressure for another deal.

An AP report on Wednesday quoted a doctor who treated some of the released hostages. He told AP that at least 10 men [teens] and women who were freed were sexually assaulted or abused. He did not provide further details.

Fifteen female hostages remain in captivity in Gaza.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




Following rocket alert sirens in Eilat, the IDF confirmed that a surface-to-surface missile was launched at Israel and was successfully intercepted in the Red Sea by the Arrow air defense system.

The IDF said that the missile did not cross into Israeli territory and did not pose a threat to civilians.

The missile is believed to have been launched at Israel by the Houthis in Yemen.

The Houthis have fired several ballistic missiles and drones at Eilat since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war in October, all of which were intercepted or missed their targets.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




MyParochet, under the creative direction of Chana Gamliel Shul Judaica, specializes in crafting bespoke parochets that capture the unique spirit of each Shul. Rejecting the commonplace navy crushed velvet and cookie-cutter designs, MyParochet offers timeless elegance and chic styles that serve as a stunning focal point, reflecting the communitys essence and the cherished passages of its members.



Follow Chanas captivating journey as she channels her creativity to bring to life an exceptional project designed for a special Shul.

The Inspired Customer: A Foundation for Creativity

This tremendous project starts with the inspired customer because an inspired blockbuster parochet always starts with an inspired customer.

Nationally acclaimed trial attorney, Josh Kahane, is a truly inspired individual and envisioned his entire shul with a Shmoneh Esrei theme. He had high goals for his shul and BH, I think we surpassed them all.

Here is our initial spreadsheet with the passuk and theme for each shul item: We went all out with the symbolism and design details.

Youll notice that each letter of the main passuk is made of a blend of 5-6 embroidery thread colors.

Densely embroidered Kotel stones, in different shapes and sizes, enhance the entire background. The right side features a long line of white pearls, as well as the Retzei bracha in small. A long rainbow of different shaped/colored/cut Swarovski crystals flow down the left side, as well as a long multicolored line of embroidery.

The line of pure white pearls symbolizes Hashems pure light, given to Klal Yisroel.

The line of multicolored Swarovski crystals, projecting colorful rays in all directions, symbolizes the way that Klal Yisroel accepts Hashems pure light. Each Jew, with his own unique Avodas Hashem

.

Youll also notice a few nature themes. Buds below turning into branches and leaves above. Growth through Torah.

And then theres the wide selection of fabric colors and textures and embroidery styles enhancing the whole thing. Note how I also custom-designed and created the ribbons on the sides to match with the laser cut wavy lines on the shul furniture! Shmoneh Esrei Themed Shul: Torah Mantel

We also made an incredible design for the Inner Aron. When you open the Aron Kodesh, you see a glass-printed design, continuing the passuk from the paroches!!!

For the Torah mantels, we did:

      

with symbols representing each family of donors!

Note the Beis HaMikdash with the Choshen, representing the Kahane family- a family of Kohanim!!! Enhancing Shuls Around the World Wowwow!!!! Amazing!!!

Note the different styles and techniques employed such as printing on fabric, embroidering on leather, blending fabrics and textures, adding swarovski stones.

We aim to create a personalized style tailored to our customers wishes.

From top to bottom, left to right:

Majestic Yomim Noraim Parochet set in Toronto, Khal Toras Chesed Shul Alta Yesodei

Leather Chagim Torah Mantel

Shema/Shofar Torah Mantel, on duty for Shiva homes in Israel  a donation for Zaka

Tree Parochet set in Ohio, designed for The Beachwood Kehilla

Menorah Parochet set in Washington DC (collaboration with Israeli artist Yoram Raanan)Two stunning wing themed Torah mantels! Left: Navy blue leather mantel donated by the Kahane and Levy families in Memphis.

Right: Purple mantel representing a grandmother and 4 grandchildren.Moving story behind this torah mantel  This 98-year-old Holocaust survivor decided that the time had come!

It was Erev Rosh Hashana and she decided that she just had to dedicate a Sefer Torah in memory of her MANY relatives who had perished in the Holocaust. She needed a gorgeous Torah mantel to be ready asap! As in- for Erev Shabbos Bereishis.

I was knee-deep in fulfilling my Rosh Hashana orders and did not have a second free to create a new Torah mantel. But I suddenly remembered that I did have ONE extra Torah mantel lying around. If she likes it, I will add her dedication names in back.

So I called her and described the Torah mantels design. She confirmed. She then went on to write in her incredible scrawly, 98-year-old script, the names of all of her and her husbands relatives who had perished. Hashem Yishmor- there were so many names!!!!

Instead of sending the finished product to her with a shipping company, like I normally do, I decided to take a few of my kids to Ramat Gan to meet this lady, a rare piece of history. They dont know any Holocaust survivors. Mrs. Pollack cried when she saw the mantel and my children benefitted by meeting a living survivor. It was surreal!

Masterpiece parochet set in Miami Take note of all the intricate details and colors!

Gorgeous trio! 
Social media giants have been given six months to significantly reduce the epidemic of scams on their platforms  or face action from the Government.

The warning is issued in Money Mail today by Security Minister Tom Tugendhat after a major breakthrough in our crusade against online crooks.

Money Mails Stop the Social Media Scammers campaign has been calling on the Government to force tech giants to better protect users from criminals who plague social media sites hunting for victims.

In a victory that could protect millions from online fraud, social media companies last week finally agreed to take responsibility for the scam posts poisoning their platforms.

Twelve of the worlds largest tech companies, including Facebook, Instagram and Amazon, signed a groundbreaking agreement with the Government to step up their efforts to crack down on fraud in the UK.

Fraud fight: Twelve of the worlds largest tech companies, including Facebook, Instagram and Amazon, signed an agreement to step up their efforts to crack down on fraud in the UK

Mr Tugendhat, who has been the driving force behind the agreement, says that Money Mails campaign has been hugely important in getting us to this point.

The world first fraud agreement is gaining international attention from the Security Ministers foreign counterparts, and he will present the charter to G7 ministers in Japan this weekend, he tells us.

Google, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube and eBay are among those to have committed to taking further action to block and remove fraudulent content from their sites, in a bid to protect their users from online scams, fake adverts and romance fraud. Microsoft, X (formally Twitter), LinkedIn and Match Group have also signed the charter.

The new guidelines tech giants have agreed to should significantly reduce the number of scams on social media and ensure people are more protected, says Mr Tugendhat.

This is an enormously important step and one that should make us all safer, he adds.

Companies have been given six months to implement the measures, which include working more closely with UK law enforcement and verifying a greater number of users.

The Governments Joint Fraud Taskforce, led by the Security Minister, will hold companies to account after the six-month grace period.

Until now, tech giants have been resistant to change, Mr Tugendhat adds: We have pushed the tech companies further than they wanted to go.

This is the first time anyone has asked them to take responsibility for the platforms they host.

The huge change here is they are recognising that responsibility, and thats why theyve been quite resistant to going as far as theyve gone.

It is their responsibility to ensure their users are who they say they are, and not to magnify fraud. They must filter it out and respond to scams by stopping them.

The new set of guidelines will require trading platforms, such as Facebook Marketplace, to offer or provide information on secure payment services that can be used for purchases made on their site.

In some cases, they do not offer secure payment systems, so customers lack protection when buying items advertised by other users.

For example, in the UK, Facebook Marketplace doesnt have a built-in payment service, as eBay does with PayPal, or Amazon with its credit and debit card payment facility. So shoppers often use bank transfers to send money direct to sellers  putting them at far greater risk of being scammed.

For months, Money Mail has warned of an explosion of scams on the trading site and has called for a secure payment system to be put in place.

The firms must also verify new advertisers and promptly remove any fraudulent content. They will also increase levels of verification on online trading marketplaces. People using online dating services will be given the option to prove they are who they say they are.

It marks a victory for the Mails campaign, which has called for tech companies to set up tougher identity verification measures to stop fraudsters setting up social media accounts.

Until now, many social media giants have not sufficiently verified the identities of the people and companies who want to buy or sell on their platforms, which has left users vulnerable to scammers.

Some 80% of scams start online with the cast majority coming from Facebook, Instagram and Whatsapp - all owned by tach giant Meta

Mr Tugendhat says: Im very grateful for the work that the Daily Mail has done  it has been incredibly important. The newspaper has been pushing for all of these aspects for a long time and it has made a huge difference in getting us to a great place with the charter.

Under the charter, all 12 companies have agreed to work closely with UK law enforcement to help track down criminals operating on their platforms, and will make it easier to quickly identify and remove fraudulent content from their sites. They will also respond to law enforcement requests to provide information on persistent offending.

Each of the 12 tech companies must have a dedicated fraud officer, who will then have a much better connection with UK law enforcement and intelligence services, Mr Tugendhat says.

He adds: Weve been very clear with tech companies that the charter must make a significant difference to the levels of fraud on their platforms. So were going to be watching the results carefully. And if they fail to meet expectations, then well have a look at other measures as necessary.

If any of these aspects dont deliver as we intend, we can act. But Im confident they now take their responsibilities seriously.

However, the new charter was signed on a voluntary basis, so it remains to be seen how much action will be taken.

Banking industry leaders say they are concerned about whether the voluntary measures will be fully implemented.

One insider, who asked to remain anonymous, says: Theres a degree of scepticism at the moment about whether its going to be fully realised and the tech companies will step up. These are excellent measures that weve all been calling for, but the proof is in the pudding.

Until now, many social media giants have not sufficiently verified the identities of the people and companies who want to buy or sell on their platforms, which has left users vulnerable

The agreement comes after the Mail hosted a major fraud summit in London last month, attended by Mr Tugendhat, industry group UK Finance, senior bankers and politicians.

Industry leaders warned that social media platforms were failing to take responsibility for fraud and were likely to continue to do so unless the Government enforced tough new rules.

Liz Ziegler, fraud prevention director at Lloyds Banking Group, says the agreement is a step in the right direction, because these social media platforms facilitate organised crime.

This action is vital given 80 per cent of scams start online, and we look forward to seeing tech firms move with seriousness and pace to address the fraud their users are falling victim to, with the Government holding them to account.

Paul Davis, director of fraud prevention at TSB, says it is crucial tech companies do far more to stop scammers.

Its down to all signatories to match their commitment with meaningful action: putting protections in place to reduce fraud and protect millions of consumers.

A spokesman at Starling Bank says the measures fell short of forcing tech firms to reimburse victims of scams on their sites.

This is a welcome step, but we would like to see the measures go further so that social media, online marketplace and telco companies that are key enablers of this fraud are made to contribute to the reimbursement of victims.

Jim Winters, of Nationwide Building Society, says that success must be judged through results, but that tech companies may still lack real financial incentive to drive meaningful change.

Ben Donaldson, of UK Finance, says: We really want to see the public being better protected from these criminals, but we need to ensure the Government makes robust enough checks on the tech companies.

j.beard@dailymail.co.uk
Another day, another example of bad behaviour at the poster child for the shortcomings of privatisation  Thames Water.

This provider of water and sewage services in London and surrounding locations lurches from crisis to crisis, damaging the environment, letting down consumers and giving private ownership a filthy name.

When Jeremy Hunt, in his Autumn Statement, summoned up the spirit of Sid, the iconic small shareholder of the 1980s, to raise enthusiasm for the sale of the states remaining stake in NatWest, he may have hoped that Thames Water would have slipped our minds.

But it is not possible, even though the business is no longer listed.

Yesterday, Thames announced a 54 per cent decline in half-year profits, but also a turnaround plan, designed to repair its decrepit infrastructure and reduce its 14.7billion debt.

National disgrace: Thames Water lurches from crisis to crisis, damaging the environment, letting down consumers and giving private ownership a filthy name

Despite a pledge to be more honest, it emerged that it was being investigated by the industry watchdog Ofwat over the payment of dividends to its parent company apparently to finance even more debt.

Ofwat can prevent companies from making payouts if they imperil financial strength, and dividends must be linked to performance standards.

The disclosure over the dividend distribution comes just days after a controversy over whether a 500million injection from shareholders was actually a loan, not equity, as Thames (a specialist in such sophistry) claimed.

However, since Ofwat has scarcely been a muscular regulator, perhaps it feels that it can shake off ensure.

The major shareholders include Canadian pension fund Omers, the China Investment Corporation sovereign wealth fund and the Universities Superannuation Scheme.

Together, they are expected to produce a further 750muillion, but before they part with this, they must insist on more clarity from Thames about nature of its byzantine connections with its parent company.

Investors may not fear renationalisation, given the enormous cost. But such is public disaffection with water firms that Labour may still pop a proposal into its manifesto.

The murky goings-on give not only privatisation a bad name, but also call into question the Governments role. It has tolerated a toothless watchdog and put extra costs on customers and taxpayers, who may end up paying to mend leaky pipes.

If you see Hunt or Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch, tell them!

Making a getaway

The Oxford University Press word of the year is rizz, the TikTok generations term for charm and sexual appeal.

Revenge spending was not considered, although it sums up a key post-pandemic trend. There are things on which we scrimp, but others on which we will splash out, following the privations of lockdown.

The 18.7 per cent rise in full-year revenues at online travel agent On The Beach to a record 170.2million shows that revenge spending on holidays is going strong.

Shaun Morton, its chief executive, says most consumers are seeking to protect  not sacrifice their break.

Shareholders will be cheered to learn getaways have recovered their rizz, and by the news of a dividend next year.

The figures lifted shares 17.9 per cent, although they remain 66 per cent down over three years. The road back to this level may be shorter if On The Beach can deploy its tech to disrupt the long haul end of the market.

Another focus will be its battle against what it calls the anti-competitive behaviour of low-cost airlines like Ryanair which, it is claimed, block the firms bookings.

Between On the Beach and Ryanair, there is a distinct lack of rizz. The Competition and Markets Authority should intervene to foster a better working relationship.

Saucy proposition

What does it take to boost grocery market share? A premium range helps, as the latest Kantar data suggests.

Tesco offers Tesco Finest, while Sainsburys has Taste The Difference.

Aldi and Lidl, meanwhile, provide discounts, plus the thrill of the bazaar. The diverse merchandise of Lidl has irresistible appeal. Asda and Morrisons are flagging.

It would be shameful if these once-proud British names became yet more examples of the detrimental effect of private equity ownership which loads businesses with debt but starves them of investment.

People want a bargain  and that secret sauce: composed, attractive prices and exciting displays that make you put more into that trolley.
My faulty fridge caught fire and burnt down my kitchen. Am I within my legal rights to claim for a new kitchen from the manufacturer?

E.W., by email.

Dean Dunham replies: You may be able to. Under a law called the Consumer Protection Act 1987 you can make a claim against a manufacturer of goods if the goods are defective and such defect causes damage to your property or an injury to you.

A product is defective if its safety is not what you would generally expect.

This must take into account the warnings and product instructions provided, plus how the product could reasonably be expected to be used.

Fridge blaze: Can a reader demand their fridge manufacturer pay for a new kitchen after their faulty unit malfunctioned and started a devastating fire

However, as with everything, there are also a number of exclusions and certain defences the manufacturer can use to legally dodge your claim.

By way of example, the manufacturer can potentially reject your claim in the following circumstances:

The value of your loss is less than 275 (obviously not the case here

You failed to follow the user instructions and therefore the fault was caused by your mis-use of the goods

You had failed to take notice of a safety warning or product recall notice (although the manufacturer would have to show that such warning or notice had been brought to your attention

The issue arose due to wear and tear and therefore the goods are past their shelf life (this defence should only work where the goods are very old and there was a clear notice provided to confirm how long the goods should last)

And the other defence manufacturers tend to use is there were no defects when the goods left our warehouse (which is hard for them to prove).

So long as you are not caught out by any of the above defences, you will be able to claim for a new fridge and for the cost of a kitchen (including installation).

It is also important to note that unlike a claim against a retailer for faulty goods, when you claim against a manufacturer under the Consumer Protection Act, it doesnt matter if it wasnt you who purchased the goods.

Ticket scalper charged me triple

Ive bought concert tickets through a third-party ticket-selling website.

However, the tickets were triple the price of those on sale at the venue. Is it legal for the seller to charge me so much more?

J. F., by email.

Dean Dunham replies: Secondary ticket sellers have a legal obligation under Section 90 of the Consumer Rights Act 2015 to provide certain information to consumers before they commit to purchasing the tickets.

As part of this, consumers must be informed of the face value of the ticket and must be made aware that they are buying from a secondary ticket agent.

If you were made aware of all these important points before you purchased your tickets, then, unfortunately, there is nothing you can do.

However, if this information was not made clear to you, then you can demand a full refund on the basis that the seller has breached the Consumer Rights Act, leaving you with the right to reverse the ticket purchase and get your money back.

If the ticket seller ignores or rejects your claim, you can make a chargeback claim if you paid with your debit or credit card in the last 120 days.

If the period has exceeded 120 days and you paid with your credit card, you can make a Section 75 claim. This applies to purchases above 100 and allows you to claim back the cost of the tickets from your credit card provider, rather than the seller.

In either case, you will need to contact your card provider, tell it you paid on your card and there has been a breach of contract (this is because the ticket seller here has breached Section 90 of the Consumer Rights Act), and you therefore want to claim under the chargeback scheme or under Section 75, as the case may be.
My father is 87 and until 2022 was still working as an accountant. This year hes been showing signs of dementia with memory loss.

While helping him with his bank payments recently, I noticed hes still paying a subscription for accountancy software that he no longer needs  or is capable of using.

The subscription from IRIS costs thousands of pounds each year and I believe hes been a customer for 25 to 30 years.

I contacted IRIS to explain the situation and ask for an immediate cancellation of the contract  and for this years payments to be refunded. Im getting nowhere.

The renewals department said we cant just cancel and get a refund. I even tried messaging the chief executive through social media channels, but was unable to make contact.

Locked in: An software firm is refusing to cancel a customer's subscription for expensive accountancy software and issue a refund after he began to show signs of dementia

My dad has only a modest pension, so paying IRIS is a huge drain on his finances. He needs money to pay for care now dementia has taken hold. Please help.

G. T., Berkshire.

Sally Hamilton replies: I was sorry to hear you had to work so hard to get someone to listen to your fathers plight. It is not simply a case of a customer wanting to cancel a subscription on a whim. Your father cannot use the product any more due to his health.

You were able to request the termination because you have power of attorney over your fathers affairs.

Despite your attempts to get someone at IRIS to look at your fathers case with more compassion, it repeatedly pointed to the terms and conditions of his contract. A doctors note confirming his dementia diagnosis failed to cut any ice initially.

When I contacted IRIS on behalf of you and your father, it responded with sympathy, acknowledging the difficulty of living with dementia.

It said it admired the help the family is providing during this challenging time.

Initially IRIS agreed to terminate the agreement early at the end of November (the current contract period runs from February 2023 to March 2024), so your father would not have to pay the subscription fee of 2,184.76 for December to March. Over a year, the fee would exceed 8,000.

Scam Watch Parents who plan to borrow money ahead of Christmas should stay vigilant about loan-fee fraud, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) warns. More than one in four have borrowed money or intend to this festive season, the City watchdog says. But stretched households are at greater risk of falling victim to loan-fee fraud  where you pay a fee for a loan you never receive. On average, victims lose 255. Dont be pressured into making a fast or unusual payment. To check if a lender is authorised, visit fca.org. uk/consumers/warning-list-unauthorised-firms.

I still felt that wasnt enough given your father hadnt been working or capable of using the software for the full contract period, so I continued on my quest.

IRIS has subsequently decided to refund the previous quarters (September to November) subscription fee of 2,184.76.

It is often difficult for people with dementia to keep track of their finances and they therefore may be more vulnerable to paying for unwanted subscriptions.

Paul Edwards, director of clinical services at charity Dementia UK, says: Sometimes, people with dementia will accidentally sign themselves up for subscriptions or direct debits, they may also forget they have previously approved a regular payment, leading to them being overcharged.

When families and carers become responsible for a persons financial affairs, they might discover existing debt or unwanted subscriptions and contracts.

It is vital that all suppliers have specialist support in place to combat financial abuse and harm.

If you need advice or support about living with dementia and managing finances, call Dementia UKs Admiral Nurse Dementia Helpline on 0800 888 6678 or email: helpline@dementiauk.org.

Straight to the point I booked a trip to Norfolk in September with Sykes Holiday Cottages for 840. When I made the reservation, I was told I could bring my dog but the confirmation email said no dogs allowed. I cancelled and asked for a refund but was told the booking was non-refundable. A.B., Kirby Muxloe. A Sykes spokesman says the property you booked does not advertise itself as accepting pets, but the property owner has agreed to provide a full refund on this occasion as a gesture of goodwill. *** On October 20 I sent a tracked and signed- for parcel to my daughter in Australia via Royal Mail. The tracking information said it was leaving the UK a day later but my daughter still hasnt received it. I phoned customer services but was connected to a robot. J. H., via email. Royal Mail apologises for the delay and your experience with customer services. Your daughter has now received the parcel. *** I have been unable to access my E.ON Next account for months and have given up trying to contact the company. Its very frustrating as I would like to track my usage. Is there anything you can do? J.B., Stamford. E.ON has now contacted you and restored access to your account. *** I bought a voucher from Rick Stein for a Home Afternoon Tea box. My brother-in-law tried to use it but was told it couldnt be delivered to his town. The list of unavailable delivery places did not include his town but Rick Stein says it cannot provide a refund. M.K., Doncaster. Rick Stein apologises and says its customer service fell below its high standards. You have now received a full refund and a hamper is on its way as a gesture of goodwill.

Can't get texts on my 40-a-month phone

I recently switched my mobile phone provider to O2 after many years as a Vodafone customer.

However, I have been unable to make or receive any text messages or phone calls from anyone but one number (my husband, also on O2) since I have had my new phone.

I called O2, which told me its technical team would investigate and respond in ten working days, but its been a month and it has not replied. Customer services now says that it cannot help further.

I now have a phone Im paying more than 40 a month for, but cannot use for texts or calls.

Anyone who tries to call me gets a message that says: This number is invalid. Please help me as this is causing me untold stress. No one seems to want to help me.

L. H., Yorkshire.

Sally Hamilton replies: The idea of being without the use of a phone sends me into a minor panic  I can only imagine how frustrating this has been for you.

O2 has dragged its feet on this one and all the while youve been without the use of your phone.

On joining O2, you opted to keep the same phone number and correctly obtained a PAC code from Vodafone to allow this to happen.

When a number is being ported from one provider to another, both companies are required to take action to ensure its done smoothly.

The PAC code from the existing provider essentially gives the new network permission to take over the number.

When a port takes place, your old network operator must update its systems so that any time the number is called in future, the incoming call is routed to the new provider.

I contacted O2 and Vodafone on your behalf to get things moving. Within a few days O2 got your phone up and running and has agreed to credit your account for the three months youve been paying, plus an extra month as a gesture of goodwill.

Further, I contacted Vodafone, which has now refunded you 57.41  a charge taken in error after your contract had ended, that they had failed to refund, as well as an extra 50 by way of apology.

The source of the extremely lengthy delay in getting this sorted remains a mystery as each provider claims the other was at fault for errors in the changeover.

For anyone experiencing delays in porting a number, its important to keep chasing both parties as the error could, in fact, lie with either network.

SALLY HAMILTON is away.
Tui Group's profits more than doubled last year as the absence of pandemic-related restrictions and price hikes produced its largest-ever annual turnover.

Europe's biggest travel operator also struck a potential blow to the City, as it revealed discussions that could see Tui move its primary listing away from London markets.

Some Tui shareholders believe the move could lead to lower costs, a centralisation of liquidity and 'potential benefits to European Union airline ownership and control requirements'.

Bumper result: Tui Group revealed underlying earnings before interest and tax skyrocketed by 139 per cent to 977million (836.7million) in the 12 months ending September

The German tourism company, founded exactly a century ago, revealed underlying earnings before interest and tax skyrocketed by 139 per cent to 977million (836.7million) in the 12 months ending September.

Revenue jumped by a quarter to a record 20.7billion (17.7billion) following strong summer season demand, as fourth-quarter sales increased by 11 per cent to 8.5billion.

This was despite wildfires on the Greek island of Rhodes, industrial action across Europe, and the failure of Britain's air traffic system over the Bank Holiday August weekend affecting journeys for millions of passengers.

Trading benefited from price increases in its markets and airlines segment and a lack of Covid-related travel curbs, which caused unprecedented disruption and financial difficulty during the first half of the pandemic.

Higher occupancy levels and daily rates at its cruise brands - Mein Schiff, Hapag-Lloyd and Marella Cruises- also boosted the company's sales.

TUI Group shares were up 9.9 per cent to 562.5p on Wednesday morning, bringing 2023 losses to 22 per cent.

The Hanover-based firm expects further growth this year, with revenue anticipated to increase by at least 10 per cent and underlying earnings forecast to expand by 25 per cent at a minimum.

For the upcoming winter season, it noted current bookings were 11 per cent higher and average selling prices were 5 per cent up on last year.

Tui said bookings for next summer and prices were 13 per cent and 4 per cent higher, respectively.

Victoria Scholar, head of investment at Interactive Investor, said: 'The travel industry continues to enjoy the release of pent-up demand post-Covid with individuals and families prioritising their summer holidays over other spending even in the face of the cost-of-living crisis.

'However, with a rising risk of recession in the UK, Germany and elsewhere, there are worries that demand may have peaked with a slowdown in travel spending particularly over the quieter winter months.'

Tui mulls London exit

TUI also announced it was considering abandoning the London Stock Exchange and changing its primary listing to Frankfurt's MDax market.

The FTSE 100 group said it was 'recently approached' by some shareholders regarding whether the present listing arrangement was 'optimal and advantageous'.

It suggested the move could lead to lower costs, a centralisation of liquidity and 'potential benefits to European Union airline ownership and control requirements'.

Investors will decide on the proposal at the company's annual general meeting on 13 February. Three-quarters of them need to vote in favour for the measure to pass.

Should the delisting be approved, it would represent the latest blow to the London stock market, which is struggling to hold onto and attract companies.

Both building materials supplier CRH Holdings and plumbing products firm Ferguson recently switched their primary listing to New York, while Softbank snubbed the UK capital to list ARM Holdings on Wall Street.
British American Tobacco will take a 25billion hit from writing down the value of some of its US cigarette brands as it faces up to the shrinking long-term value of the market.

The Lucky Strike and Dunhill maker's on-cash adjusting impairment charge comes amid stricter regulation and growing awareness of tobacco-related health risks, which is driving declines in cigarette volumes in some markets.

BATS has also highlighted that hard-pressed US consumers are switching to cheaper brands, while the alarming growth of illicit disposable vapes is also putting pressure on its cigarette division in the country.

British American Tobacco revealed it will write down 25billion off the value of some of its U.S cigarette brands

Shares in BAT fell by 7.36 per cent to 2,304.50p in early afternoon trading on Wednesday.

The company told investors it will now adjust the way some of its US brands are treated on its balance sheet, shifting their value to a finite lifetime of 30 years.

Tadeu Marroco, chief executive, described the move as 'accounting catching up with reality'.

While he said he does not believe cigarettes would disappear in 30 years, he said it was no longer possible to justify an indefinite value for those brands equating to around $80billion on BAT's balance sheet.

With traditional smoking on the decline, BAT has been investing in next generation products like heated tobacco and vapes to sustain growth.

On Wednesday, it added a new ambition to generate 50 per cent of its revenues from non-combustibles by 2025.

In July, the group revealed that revenue from non-combustibles constitutes 16.6 per cent of total group revenue, making for an increase of 180 basis points compared to the prior financial year.

It also posted strong profit growth, bolstered by price hikes and fast-growing demand for tobacco alternatives.

Its profit from operations on a reported basis rose 61.4 per cent to 5.94billion for the six months ending 30 June.

However, BAT now expects full-year revenue growth to come in at the lower end of its 3 to 5 per cent range.

It also expects low single-digit growth in revenue and adjusted profit from operations in 2024.

Richard Hunter, head of markets at Interactive Investor, said: 'The tobacco sector in general has seen valuations decrease compared to historical levels and a reduced pool of potential investors, with some being unwilling or unable to enter the sector on ethical grounds.

'For BAT, this has resulted in a sharp drop in its share price, which has fallen by 27 per cent over the last year as compared to a marginal dip of 0.4 per cent for the wider FTSE100.

'The loss of the last two years is a rather more palatable 4 per cent, but the lack of growth underlines the sectors challenges, as evidenced by the major write-down of goodwill on some of its US combustible brands.

'The market consensus of the shares as a buy recognises the strength and potential of BATs cash generative abilities and prospects, although this general view inevitably falls into the category of a higher risk investment.'
We are proud to announce the launch of our new daily service Ahraminfo, which is a new window in French to the outside world with a focus on the French-speaking world.

The dream has come true. More than a month ago, every corner in the locations of Al-Ahram Hebdo was full of vitality, dynamism, and enthusiasm. Preparations were on the go to launch a new digital service by Al-Ahram Hebdo to all its readers, titled Ahraminfo. The new digital platform provides detailed daily coverage of all the surrounding updates, in addition to our weekly coverage that is published and downloaded on our website. We have always been present at the heart of the action and in the middle of every event.

Today we are launching a new service, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of our published edition of Al-Ahram Hebdo, which has succeeded throughout its history to realize many journalistic achievements. The website of Al-Ahram Hebdo came to light in 1998 and I was proud to be one of its founders. Then, it has undergone 3 developments consecutively in 2005, 2012, and 2022.

We are about to start a new milestone in the digital world. The new service provided by Al-Ahram Hebdo is a 100 percent daily digital news and information outlet aiming to strengthen the complementarity between the web and the paper. Ahraminfo is a new journalistic experience, long-awaited by talented journalists known for their outstanding performances and capacities in covering Egyptian events and transmitting them to the world most impartially and accurately.



Our new daily service is based on three fundamentals: clear, reliable, and objective information. Ahraminfo provides a detailed and factual view to give the reader all the elements that help him make up his own opinion with complete freedom. We are not seeking competition with other already-existing media, but we try to explain the news differently. The new online digital platform is designed to be more modern, easier to navigate, and more secure.

Who are we?



The team consists of a cohort of journalists who dig into data all day long, questioning experts to provide a clear and unprecedented reading of the news. Ahraminfo covers a wide range of topics including politics, science, economics, sports, tourism, culture, and international news.

This newborn outlet would not have come to light today without the interaction, support, and dedication of all concerned institutions, starting with the National Press Authority which adopted the idea and supported it from the very beginning.

I would like to thank my mentor engineer Abdel Sadek El-Shorbagui, who always pays attention to digital journalism in foreign languages and does his best to support any new journalistic experience. I would like also to extend my gratitude to Abdel-Mohsen Salama, the chairman of the board of directors of Al-Ahram Foundation, for his grounded support of our new medium. Salama exerted all efforts until it became a reality in this record time. We also thank Alaa Thabet, the editor-in-chief of Al-Ahram newspaper, who has always been our backbone and support system.

To my colleagues at Al-Ahram Hebdo, without your excessive enthusiasm and dedication to work, we would not have been able to achieve the dream so quickly and in such a distinguished way. No words can express your worth.

Last but not least, our readers, we promise to provide you with an outstanding service, as we always did. Thank you as well for your trust in our newspaper and your continuous support. We promise we will be up to the responsibility.

Our daily service is now available on the Al-Ahram Hebdo website. Join the Ahraminfo community to access news in Egypt and worldwide. click french.ahram.org.eg to visit the website.



Search Keywords:

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Advertisements from three major airlines have been banned by Britain's ad regulator for giving 'misleading information on the airlines' environmental impact'.

Lufthansa, Air France-KLM and Etihad Airways adverts were all banned by the Advertising Standards Agency, which ruled on Wednesday that all three airlines had breached UK rules and 'must not appear again in the form complained about'.

Lufthansa, Air France-KLM and Etihad Airways adverts were all banned by the Advertising Standards Agency (ASA)

Lufthansa insisted in one of its Google adverts back in July that people would 'fly more sustainably' with the airline.

An Air France-KLM advert said it was 'committed to protecting the environment' and helped people to 'travel better and sustainably'.

Meanwhile, Etihad Airways said consumers could explore the world with 'total peace of mind,' while mentioning its 'environmental advocacy'.

The ASA investigated all three adverts over environmental claims.

In a ruling, the regulator, said: 'The CAP (Committee of Advertising Practice) Code required that absolute environmental claims must be supported by a high level of substantiation.'

It concluded that the Lufthansa advertisement gave a misleading impression of the airline's environmental impact.

In March, Lufthansa, Europe's second-largest airline, said it was 'back' as it returned to profit and revealed revenues nearly doubled in 2022.

It said it carried 102m passengers last year compared to 47million a year earlier.

Lufthansa said its adverts were created by the Google Ads service and was designed to highlight a 'green fares' option which allows passengers to offset some of their CO2 emissions.

In a statement, it said: 'Lufthansa regrets that the Google ad in question failed to explain the further basis for the statement 'fly more sustainable'.

The ASA said Etihad had removed the advert once it had been notified of the initial complaint.

Both Etihad and Air France-KLM had no immediate comment.
Over-50s specialist Saga is launching a mortgage platform which allows customers to compare and apply for deals from 110 different lenders in one place.

Customers can check the live prices and affordability of all available mortgage products including repayment, interest-only and buy-to-let loans through the platform.

The Saga Mortgages platform, in partnership with mortgage broker Tembo, is the latest project in Sagas bid to become a superbrand for older people in the UK.

Saga's new mortgage platform today allows customers to compare and apply for deals from 110 different lenders in one place

Homeowners can also help a child or grandchild get on the property ladder by applying for an income or deposit-boost mortgage through the platform.

These products allow parents and grandparents to help out and vouch for aspiring first-time buyers to increase the amount they can borrow.

Each customer will also have access to their own case manager, who will liaise with the lender, solicitors and sellers on their behalf.

Alex Edmans, head of financial services at Saga Money, says: We have created a service which simplifies the process, providing a personalised range of mortgage options, underpinned by a team of experts to provide advice and support.

a.cooke@dailymail.co.uk
Bakewell, a Derbyshire market town popular with tourists, is famous for its delicious tarts and puddings.

So popular is its produce that The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop does a roaring trade posting its wares all over the UK.

Yet Bakewell is currently attracting nationwide attention because it is about to lose something no other town or village has in the vast Peak District National Park  a bank branch.

In late February next year, its NatWest branch will shut for good leaving Bakewell and the National Park  all 555 square miles of it  bankless.

The impending closure has annoyed everyone among the town's eclectic mix of independent retailers, constituency MP Sarah Dines, local councillors, residents and the farming community.

More than half of the country's bank and building society branches have shut since January 2015, leaving just short of 3,900 still open and not (yet) scheduled for closure

And bank branch staff have been left in tears over NatWest's decision to shut up shop.

Of course, Bakewell isn't unique. High streets up and down the country have been damaged by bank branch closures.

Yet having spent Monday in the picturesque (and freezing cold) town speaking to locals and traders  and visiting its livestock market  it begs one big question.

If the banks have concluded that Bakewell can't support a branch, which community can outside the cities and big towns?

To put it bluntly, the big banks  internet and mobile app crazy  seem to want out of the High Street altogether.

'It's a crazy decision,' says Georgie Stewart, co-owner of gift shop Stewarts of Bakewell, located just yards from the bank.

'We've banked with NatWest forever and a day. Now, some bean counter in London has decided that the branch here must shut.'

She adds: 'Although NatWest may argue otherwise, they don't seem to care and they don't understand what the branch means to the community  to businesses like mine which need to bank takings on a regular basis and the many residents who still prefer face-to-face banking.

'The thought of Bakewell without a bank is an unbearable one.'

Of course, branch closures are nothing new. Money Mail and The Mail on Sunday have been reporting on this for more than 20 years  triggered in part by the decision of Barclays to shut 171 branches, all on one day  April 7  in 2000.

Upheaval: Matt Fitz, of the Cornish Bakery in Bakewell

According to consumer group Which?, over half of the country's bank and building society branches have shut since January 2015, leaving just short of 3,900 still open and not (yet) scheduled for closure.

Alarming? Yes. But there is worse to come. As the big banks increasingly drive customers towards mobile phone banking, the death of the bank branch outside cities and big towns is fast approaching.

Data collated by cash machine network Link indicates that, since May last year, 1,259 branches have shut  or are due to close between now and late next year. In the past month alone, more than 100 closures have been announced by Barclays, Lloyds and NatWest.

You don't need to be an actuary to do the maths. If the current closure rate were to be maintained, most of the country could be without a nearby bank by the end of 2028.

It's not a good outlook. There are some 300 communities that like Bakewell are currently served by just one bank branch. All the evidence suggests that most of these will suffer the same fate as the Derbyshire town and lose their last remaining branch in the coming year.

As the graphic shows, towns including Dolgellau, Gwynedd; Erskine, Renfrewshire; Glossop, Derbyshire; Portishead, Somerset; and Guisborough, North Yorkshire, are all at threat of losing their last bank.

Analysts believe communities with either Lloyds (including the bank's other brands Halifax and Bank of Scotland) or NatWest (Ulster Bank and Royal Bank of Scotland) as the last bank in town are in danger of becoming bankless.

This is because these two groups have, until recently, been less aggressive than rivals Barclays and HSBC in shutting branches.

Campaign: Mark Wakeman, with a petition to halt the NatWest closure, outside his pet supplies shop in Bakewell

Link says more than a quarter of the 1,259 branches closed  or put on notice of closure  in the past 20 months have been last banks in town.

Although a newish agreement between the banks and organisations representing the elderly and small businesses is meant to ensure bankless communities have continued High Street access to cash, it's not proving as effective as some would like.

Link's data shows that only half of these bankless towns (176 out of 341) have been given  or promised  support by Cash Access UK, set up and funded by the banks to protect communities from the impact of branch closures.

This support is in the form of a banking hub, a shared branch operated by the Post Office with representatives from the major banks available to help customers. Alternatively, it may be a new cash machine or a cash deposit service (aimed at small retailers).

Even when a replacement service is agreed, it can take an age to come on stream. So while 63 hubs have been earmarked for communities hit by the loss of their last bank, only 19 are currently operational.

The delays are a result of difficulty in finding suitable premises and inadequate resources made available to Cash Access UK by the banks.

Last week, Labour promised to 'accelerate' the rollout of hubs if it wins the next general election  and legislate to eradicate 'banking deserts'. It said it would help establish at least 350 hubs countrywide.

Derek French, a long-standing campaigner for shared bank branches, welcomes Labour's announcement. He has become increasingly frustrated by the slow appearance of hubs.

He says: 'Hubs will save the banks millions of pounds in branch costs. So they should commit far more financial resource and energy to Cash Access UK, thereby enabling it to put in place more shared branches where customers can obtain face-to-face advice.'

Access to high street banking could become a greater political issue as the election edges nearer. Research by analytics company SAS shows that 28 constituencies (out of a total 650) are already devoid of banks run by the top-seven bank and building society names  Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, Nationwide, NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland and Santander.

Yet if constituencies continue to lose branches at the same rate as in the past three years, it says a further ten could become bankless next year. They include the constituencies of Conservative MPs Mel Stride (Central Devon) and Laurence Robertson (Tewkesbury).

The impending closure of NatWest's Bakewell branch has certainly annoyed Sarah Dines, Tory MP for Derbyshire Dales.

Seven days ago, armed with a petition containing hundreds of signatures opposing the bank's closure, she raised the issue with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in the House of Commons. She did not hold back.

'As disturbed as I was [that] British politicians were being debanked by NatWest, you can imagine my horror that an entire town, Bakewell in Derbyshire Dales, is being debanked by NatWest.'

She added: 'Can you share my concern please that as we are the national shareholder of NatWest, why are they ignoring my vulnerable, elderly people and also businessmen. It is a big, thriving market town.'

The PM responded by saying that the banks would be funding a new cash deposit service in the town  useful for retailers to bank takings. He also said Bakewell, like most towns, has a post office that bank customers can use.

This did not go down well with Mark Wakeman, a district and town councillor, whom I met on Monday in between negotiating the town's icy pavements and struggling to keep my fingers and toes vaguely warm.

'I would like Mr Sunak to visit our post office,' he told me. 'Pleasant though the staff are, it invariably has a queue. Indeed, if the queue exceeds five, customers are asked to wait outside. There is also no personal banking advice available which NatWest customers can get at the branch in town.'

No one I met in Bakewell was prepared to defend NatWest's decision. Matt Fitz, of the Cornish Bakery, said he had responded to the closure announcement by going cashless  despite the promised cash deposit service.

'I'm not queuing 45 minutes to bank cash takings at the post office,' he told me. 'Eighty per cent of my takings were cash based, so my business could well suffer. But NatWest has forced me down this route.'

Endangered: The death of the bank branch outside the cities and big towns is fast approaching as big banks increasingly drive customers towards mobile phone banking

At Bakewell Market, the farmers present  most selling or buying livestock  vented their spleen.

'I've banked with NatWest all my working life,' said Peter Atkin, whose farm is just off the Snake Pass  often impassable in snow.

'I don't have wifi where I live so, for banking, I use a branch including the one in Bakewell.

'Sadly, banks are now all about profit and greed and nothing to do with customer service. Loyalty no longer pays. Am I angry? Yes. Will I survive? Of course. I'll just have to find another NatWest branch.'

For the record, NatWest says that when it closes branches, it ensures no customer is left behind.

A notice in the branch window advises customers that in February, their nearest branch will be Chesterfield, 13 miles away. Alternatively they can bank online or via an app.

But how long before the Chesterfield branch shuts? Not long given the current rate of closures.

jeff.prestridge@dailymail.co.uk
Sharmoofers, a popular Egyptian band, expressed their support to the Palestinian people through their new single Resala (A Message) released yesterday on YouTube, with the lyrics subtitled in Hebrew.

The one-and-a-half-minute-long rap song relies on a black screen with lyrics in Arabic and Hebrew.

The song was presented on numerous music streaming platforms and Sharmoofers' social media.

"The smell of blood was strong. A child, a woman, a sheik, or a young man, no difference [to you]," are the opening words of the lyrics penned by Ahmed Bahaa (the band's vocalist), who also composed the music of Resala.

"You are the one carrying the sin. It is all written, it is all known," the lyrics continue using words that not only support the Palestinian cause but also point to the nation's suffering over decades.

In translating lyrics to Hebrew, Sharmoofers attempt to make the message reach listeners in Israel.

Released yesterday, Sharmoofers song has climbed to "#28 on Trending for Music" in Egypt.

Resala comes within a series of songs, by several Egyptian and Arab artists, which support the Palestinian cause and/or address the current war on Gaza.



Moreover, on 30 November, the Egyptian band Cairokee released the new single Telk Qadeya (It's a Case), expressing their support for the Palestinian cause and questioning the US double standards.

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Israels primary objective in its war on Gaza is to exact extraordinary revenge upon the Palestinians rather than to retrieve its captives from Hamas, analyst Mouin Rabbani tells Al-Ahram Wekly.

Israel resumed its bombardment of Gaza following a seven-day truce that ended on Friday with renewed force this week, with Palestinian survivors of the bombardments describing them as being even more intense than before.

Having forcibly expelled over one million people from northern Gaza to the south of the Strip, the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) bombs are now killing more Palestinians daily in the heavily populated southern parts of the besieged Strip.

The IOF has simultaneously targeted Gazas civilian infrastructure and educational, religious and cultural institutions including its parliament, universities, libraries and courts, after it had destroyed more than 60 per cent of the enclaves homes before the truce began.

The resumption of the Israeli airstrikes with increasing force has exacerbated Gazas worsening humanitarian crisis, which has now eclipsed the brief respite of the seven-day truce. Scenes of Hamas political victory with the release of Palestinians from Israeli prisons during the exchange process have been replaced with fresh images of annihilation.

In a telephone interview with Al-Ahram Weekly, Mouin Rabbani, an expert on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, explained that contrary to what its leaders say Israels war on Gaza is primarily driven by the objective of depopulating the Strip.

Rabbani, also co-editor of Jadaliyya, a political publication focused on the Arab world, said that neither the US nor Europe would permit Israel to continue its war for another 50 days out of concerns that it could lead to uncontrolled regional conflict and have negative impacts on their economies, especially in an election year for US President Joe Biden.

He spoke to Al-Ahram Weekly by phone from Montreal, Canada on Monday. Excerpts:

Why did Israel resume its war on Gaza when Israeli civilian hostages are still being held by Hamas?

We need to understand that the release of the captives was always a secondary rather than a primary objective for Israel. Its primary objective was to exact extraordinary revenge upon the Palestinians, not Hamas or Islamic Jihad, but Palestinian society in the Gaza Strip, in order to seek to significantly degrade Hamas as a military and governing force.

I dont think Israels continuing assertion that it intends to eradicate Hamas is taken particularly seriously by anybody, including the Israelis themselves. Its strategic perspective was to seek to depopulate the Gaza Strip by expelling its population into the Sinai Peninsula. This was an initiative that was enthusiastically embraced by the United States, but then was stillborn because, I think to US Secretary of State Antony Blinkens surprise, the Arabs didnt sign on to it.

Israel claims that the truce collapsed because Hamas fired a rocket at the Gaza envelope  which doesnt appear to have caused any damage or injury  40 minutes before the expiration of the final extension of the truce. I think we can dismiss this because two days earlier Hamas set off a number of explosives against the Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip claiming it was responding to Israeli violations of the truce, which according to Israel resulted in several soldiers being wounded.

Nevertheless, in that instance Israel did not renounce the truce and resumed its offensive, so obviously there was something bigger going on. Now Im not in a position to draw a clear conclusion, but what appears to be the case is that Israel tried, after the initial four days [of the truce], to make its extension for an additional day dependent on Hamas changing the formula agreed at the onset of the negotiations.

Israels claim is that there were additional Israeli women that Hamas either refused to release, or falsely claimed that it would need time to locate them. What Hamas asserts is that it refused to release them according to the existing formula, which involves Israeli civilians. Because these women were captured in military uniform from military bases, [therefore] they would only be released according to a different formula.

So, thats how the truce broke down. In terms of why the truce broke down, I think either Israel or the Palestinians, or both, felt that renewing the confrontation would serve to improve their bargaining position for the next truce. The other explanation is that Israel felt under pressure to resume the offensive before additional time was spent because of the growing realisation, not only in the international community, but also in the West, of the extraordinary level of death and destruction that Israel was causing. Were talking about the most intensive bombing campaign in the history of the Middle East. Were not talking about Iraq or Libya. But about the miniature Gaza Strip.

It seems clear to me that Israel has taken a decision to resume its offensive and was therefore not going to reach any agreement. But it needed to go through the motions to preserve its ability to call on the Egyptians and Qataris to eventually resume their mediation to be able to claim that the other side did it to satisfy the Americans.

You say that the US and EU wont permit Israel to continue its war for another 50 days due to concerns about uncontrolled regional escalation. How do you see that happening in a region that is already weak and vulnerable?

Forget Hizbullah and Iran. Lets look at Yemen, [where] the Houthis [who launched a series of attacks on vessels in the Red Sea] are sitting at the entrance of the Bab Al-Mandab Strait, which is a very narrow choke point connecting the Arabian Sea to the Red Sea.

All they need to do is to create the realistic expectation that there will be repeated regular attacks on shipping in the Bab Al-Mandab to have a very significant effect on world trade. Instead of using the Bab Al-Mandab and Suez Canal, ships going from Asia to Europe and back will start sailing around South Africa and the West African Coast. Im sure there will be attempts to contain the Houthis, but Im making the observation that they have been doing this and that these have been escalating.

Now, of course, if persuasion fails, there may be military action against them, but weve had ten years of war in Yemen that demonstrates that military action against the Houthis doesnt necessarily produce the required result. The Houthis dont need to conquer territory or physically seize ships like they did a week ago. All they need to do is fire a missile into the sea, and they dont need to hit anything to achieve their objective.

How do you think the Hamas-led resistance has fared so far? Do you think their military statements about destroying Israeli tanks and targeting Israeli soldiers now have the same kind of political impact and resonance that they had in the first month of the war?

At the start of this war, Israel and the US, with solid support from other Western states, established two principles on the basis of which it would be prosecuted. Number one: Hamas has to be eradicated and can no longer govern the Strip. Number two: no ceasefire, no negotiations  in other words, the three nos.

Then, not only did you have a truce, but you also had a negotiated exchange of prisoners, and this was all made possible because Israel and the US were negotiating through Qatar and Egypt admittedly, not just with Hamas but also with Yehia Al-Sinwar, the architect of the 7 October attacks. I think that increased the stature of Hamas among the Palestinians generally, certainly including in the West Bank. I would assume that the picture in the Gaza Strip is more mixed, given the extraordinary level of targeted indiscriminate fighting thats been visited upon them.

Hamas objective on 7 October was to achieve a prisoner exchange, but considering the scale of Israels response and the destruction and massive Palestinian death toll, has Hamas developed its political objectives?

I would disagree with the premise of your question, which is that Hamas was primarily motivated by a desire to seize Israeli captives to exchange for prisoners. If that had been their objective, I think they would have done this very differently. I think Hamas objective was to irrevocably shatter the status quo, certainly with regard to the conditions of the blockade on the Gaza Strip. Hamas is an Islamist movement, and when they say that Al-Haram Al-Sharif and the Al-Aqsa Mosque [in Jerusalem] are of essential importance to them, well we already have evidence that when they speak this way and act on the basis of their statements then maybe, maybe, at some level we should take their convictions seriously.

Thirdly, I think they also hoped to put Palestine back on the Arab and international agenda at a time when it was being completely marginalised and was basically being left to Israel to unilaterally resolve this issue in the way it saw fit because everyone assumed the Palestinians would just roll over and die.

If Hamas did this solely in order to free Palestinian prisoners, and even if it succeeded in doing so, it would have a lot to answer for. Because I think you would have at the very least the relatives of 15,000 people who were slaughtered asking Hamas, if this is what youve achieved, wouldnt it maybe have made more sense to let these people rot in prison for a few more years and all our loved ones would still be alive?

So, I think Hamas may have misjudged the sheer scale of the Israeli response, but I think they also understood that if they managed to capture even one Israeli soldier, then there was going to be a furious Israeli response and that this alone would have made them set their objectives significantly higher.

Hamas leadership in Gaza has been conspicuously silent since the war began. Were seeing political figures in Beirut and Doha but not a word from Hamas leader in Gaza Yehia Al-Sinwar. What message is being conveyed here?

Were not talking about [Hizbullah Secretary-General] Hassan Nasrallah being based in Beirut in a city that is at a considerable distance from the Israeli border and has access to sophisticated communication. I suspect that few people would begrudge the Hamas leaders in Gaza, whove gone deep underground, their prioritisation of operational security. I havent seen complaints about Yehia Al-Sinwar or [Al-Qassam Brigades leader] Mohamed Deifs silence. Theyve been sending [Military Spokesman] Abo Obeida to do their messaging.

We do know that the Egyptians, the Qataris, the Americans and the Israelis, through the Egyptians, are certainly communicating with Al-Sinwar. So, hes clearly communicating with the outside world. If you contrast him with Hamas leader Ismail Haniyyeh and his predecessor Khaled Meshaal, Al-Sinwar isnt really a person who constantly gives long speeches either in public or on television.

You said you expect another truce to go into effect by next week, when complex negotiations would take place about the exchange of senior Palestinian political prisoners in Israel. What kind of time frame do you see this materialising in?

I dont think this round is going to conclude with an agreement or an exchange of prisoners and its implementation. I expect a new truce to be reached, as [commentator] Norman Finklestein has suggested, by Christmas. The truce would be a prelude to negotiations that have probably already started, but I suspect are quite far from being concluded.

Do you think the release of Marwan Barghouti, the popular Fatah leader serving a life prison sentence in Israel, is plausible, since his name is on Hamas list in exchange for the Israeli generals that have been captured? If that eventually happens, what would it mean?

Im by no means excluding the possibility, slight as it may be, that Israel either manages to locate its captives and bring them out alive, or it manages to locate and bring back their corpses, and in that case, there would be no deal. There is no one single scenario, but what Im saying is assuming, and I think its a reasonable assumption, that Hamas manages to hold on to its captives for sufficiently long to produce a negotiated prisoner-exchange, theyre going to demand the release of senior Palestinian leaders in Israeli prisons for the senior officers they hold. I think they would particularly like to see Marwan Barghouti and Secretary-General of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine Ahmed Saadat released because in their view that would demonstrate to the Palestinians that theyre in this not only for themselves but also for the national interest.

I think the political impact of Barghoutis release would be very significant and a double-edged sword for Hamas. Barghouti, even though I think his popularity has been enhanced by his imprisonment, is one of those figures that if Fatah can be saved, can be saved by people like him. It would be a massive gain for Fatah. The main loser, I think, would be Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas initially. The other thing to understand about Barghouti is that he represents the trend within Fatah that has advocated power-sharing with Hamas. So, hes a potential individual who, should there be a presidential election  I dont think there will be or there should be  would be the kind of candidate Hamas would be willing to throw its support behind.

You have written that a scenario like this would be a very bitter pill for Israel to swallow. But the results of military failure tend to be bitter, and the US and Europe will help Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, or whoever replaces him, take the medicine. What did you mean by this?

If my position is that Im not going to negotiate with you because Im going to get what I want from you through the use of armed force, and therefore that I dont have to give you anything in exchange, but then I end up not only negotiating with you, but also reaching an agreement with you and actually implementing it  and I not only take from you, but I also give to you, perhaps much more than you give to me  then that kind of means I have egg all over my face.

An Irish Republican once told me that you cant achieve at the negotiating table what you cant achieve on the battlefield. The outcome of negotiations tends to reflect reality on the ground rather than transform it.

Why would the US and Europe allow this to happen?

Again, I think the US and EU gave Israel a free hand and unqualified support and weapons and the diplomatic cover needed at the beginning because they had bought into the myth of an omnipotent and omniscient Israel that had had an unfortunate failure on 7 October but would easily achieve all its objectives in short order.

On the one hand, weve seen a collapse in Western confidence in Israels intelligence and military capabilities. On the other hand, and more importantly, the main concern now of the Western states has nothing to do with the slaughter of thousands of Palestinians. Instead, it is of regional escalation. We could be seeing an all-out war between Israel and Lebanon. The US has committed to intervene in such an event, but its obviously something it doesnt want to do. No one wants to see oil prices rise in an election year in the US.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 7 December, 2023 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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Reciprocal shelling resumed on the Lebanese-Israeli border following the end of last weeks truce with the result that escalation on the northern front cannot be ruled out.

The Lebanese-Israeli front has flared up again as Israel resumed its war on Gaza following the end of the seven-day truce with Hamas. Hizbullahs more precisely targeted missile fire is being met by larger-scale strikes from Israel.

The truce began two weeks ago after Israel struck a building in the village of Beit Yahoun, killing several Hizbullah field officers, including the son of the leader of Hizbullahs parliamentary bloc, Lebanese MP Mohamed Raad.

Hizbullah responded decisively in the hours before the truce came into effect, firing some 50 Katyusha rockets at the Israeli Ein Zeitim Military Base near the town of Safed. It was the most intensive and deepest strike into Israel since the beginning of the war.

The intensity of the exchange led some observers to doubt whether the two sides would abide by the truce. However, Hizbullah made it clear that it would maintain calm on this front as long as the same applied to the Gaza front and Israel abided by the truce.

The Lebanese-Israeli border thus remained calm until reciprocal shelling resumed on 1 December.

The brief respite gave an estimated 30,000 people from southern Lebanese villages the chance to return to their homes to inspect the damage caused by the Israeli strikes. Hizbullah took the opportunity to regroup, redeploy personnel, and assess its losses. It also investigated the pre-truce strike that killed several officers to determine whether there had been an intelligence leak or whether the Israeli forces had merely had a stroke of luck.

According to a preliminary assessment, Hizbullah lost more than 80 operatives in the period before the truce, though Israel failed to halt or even slow Hizbullahs strikes against Israeli military targets.

Nevertheless, it continued its intensive fire combining pinpointed targeting of sources of Hizbullah firing with random strikes against open areas in the hope of hitting Hizbullah fighters, missile launchers or arms depots belonging either to Hizbullah or to contingents of the Al-Qassam or Jerusalem Brigades in southern Lebanon.

Israels indiscriminate strikes targeted farmhouses and civilian vehicles and killed civilians and journalists. Israel also did not spare Lebanese Army and UNIFIL forces in southern Lebanon, with the result that they sustained casualties as well, albeit minor ones.

During the first phase of the war, Israel seemed to be most focused on bombarding towns and villages south of the Litani River to drive resistance fighters away from the border with Israel. However, it failed to achieve this objective, and barely had the truce ended than Hizbullah struck an armoured personnel vehicle at the Beit Hillel Base near Kiryat Shmona with a short-range armour-piercing missile.

The missile, which must have been fired from a position close to the border fence in order to reach that far into Israel and wound at least 11 soldiers, was Hizbullahsway of telling the Israeli Occupation Force (IOF) that the resistance forces had not retreated beyond the Litani River, as Israel had wanted, and that their military capacities were undiminished.

Israels concerns for the northern front prompted a visit by French envoy Jean-Yves Le Drian to the country during the period of the truce. In his meetings with Lebanese leaders, Le Drian expressed his countrys eagerness to help Lebanon revive the long-stalled process of electing a new president. But he also made it clear that he was there to discuss arrangements related to the war in Gaza.

One major point of discussion had to do with what Le Drian described as the international communitys desire to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701 of 2005 calling for a demilitarised zone south of the Litani River, which implies the withdrawal of Hizbullahs military influence to the north of it as well.

Le Drian was surprised to find how much his countrys influence among the Lebanese political forces has declined as a result of the pro-Israeli bias expressed by French President Emmanuel Macron and his foreign minister who personally conveyed her governments threats during a visit to Beirut in the first week of the Israeli assault on Gaza.

Hizbullahs short-range anti-tank missile, not intercepted by the Israeli Iron Dome defence system, was also a message to Le Drian, rejecting the demands that he brought with him to Beirut.

According to reports, Israel had been preparing for an extensive pre-emptive strike to degrade Hizbullahs military capacities in southern Lebanon, but the truce intervened.

The reports may have been intended as a form of ultimatum to compel Hizbullah to de-escalate along the Lebanese front. If so, the resumption of missile barrages after the truce suggests that the threat did not work.

Hizbullah has taken care to keep its salvos generally within the same range as before, however, and to only strike Israeli military targets. But this has not prevented it from carrying out simultaneous attacks in several directions, in a demonstration of its ability to increase the quality and intensity of its military preparations south of the Litani River.

The precision of the strikes is also indicative of the efficiency of Hizbullahs intelligence efforts, for clearly its missiles can reach civilian infrastructure and population centres.

Israeli intelligence has so far failed to take out major Hizbullah military installations, despite its repeated threats. Most recently, the head of the Israeli intelligence agency Shin Bet warned that it would hunt down Hamas leaders in Arab capitals, including Beirut.

European officials have echoed or tacitly backed Israeli threats during their visits to Beirut, saying that they could not guarantee how far Israel would go in its strikes or that they were unable to restrain Israel from targeting Lebanese infrastructure, including in Beirut, should the war expand.

Nor would their governments commit to funding reconstruction in the event of a possible war between Israel and Hizbullah, they said.

The skirmishes that have occurred during the war show a certain parity in terms of mutual deterrence, something which Hizbullah has sought to create. A battle on the northern front is no longer the cakewalk that Tel Aviv once thought it was, and Israel knows that it must factor in serious repercussions before embarking on an adventure in that direction.

On the other hand, Hizbullah does not have an entirely free hand when it comes to strikes against northern Israel. There are certain rules of engagement that it must adhere to, though these still leave it room for manoeuvre in flexing its increasingly strong and more diverse military muscle, giving it the confidence to reject pressures to evacuate from the main area of operations and retreat beyond the Litani River.

There is also a moral reason why Hizbullah would reject this demand. Creating a buffer zone that lies entirely inside Lebanese territory and that does not require Israel to make any concessions on its side is considered to be unfair and unjust.

In practical terms, even if it is prepared to show flexibility regarding de-escalation on the northern front in tandem with de-escalation on the Gaza front, Hizbullah cannot agree to withdraw from its positions in southern Lebanon.

Having scored a major victory against Israel on that front, it cannot agree to a step that would make it appear weaker than Israel or anything less than equal.

Hizbullahs actions are subject to the framework that its Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah, earlier outlined in a televised speech. Escalation on the part of Hizbullah is contingent on developments on the ground in Gaza and the scale of Israeli strikes against Lebanon.

However, it is impossible to predict how far Israel would be willing to go in expanding the war and opening new fronts, if only to prove that it can take on all its enemies at once. As a result, as clear as the current rules of engagement are and as committed the two sides have been so far not to break them, there are still some wild cards.

Fears that the war could expand as a result of miscalculations in responses and counter-responses are thus not unwarranted.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 7 December, 2023 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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There are several narratives on why the seven-day truce between Israel and Hamas collapsed in the early hours of Friday morning, allowing Israel to continue its devastating war on Gaza.

Speaking off the record, Egyptian officials say that the Israelis wanted to impose their terms on the prisoner-swap deal that had allowed for the release of over 100 Israeli women and children held in captivity since 7 October, the day of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood in southern Israel, and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails.

We were getting into week two of the truce and the prisoner swap when a series of events happened leading to the collapse of the truce, said one well-informed Egyptian source.

Hamas had declined to accept a set list of prisoners to be released, he said. Instead, it had said that while it was an Israeli prerogative to decide which Palestinians would be released from Israeli jails, Hamas would also decide who would get out and when.

For [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu, this was too complicated because it was showing that contrary to the [official] Israeli claim, Hamas was far from being defeated and defunct but was still there and was still in a position to impose its terms, the source said.

He added that given the kind of pressure that Netanyahu was facing from his extreme-right government, it was impossible for him to accept the Hamas terms.

Netanyahu himself reluctantly decided to go for a truce under the pressure of Israeli public opinion and that of the families of the hostages who were demanding that everything be done for the hostages to be released. When he decided to go for the truce, it was not exactly something that had the blessing of the extremist members of his government, the source said.

According to the same source, the situation was complicated by a decision by Hamas to claim responsibility for an attack at a bus stop in East Jerusalem that led to the deaths of three Israelis before the two Palestinians who conducted the attack were physically eliminated by Israeli security.

It was a moment when Netanyahu could not resist the pressure from within his own government to resume the war on Gaza, the source said. He added that by that point a failure to promptly resume strikes on Gaza would have got the extremist cabinet members to walk out on him, leading to the collapse of the government.

Netanyahu also wanted to delay the end of the war to give himself time to think of a new political trick to save his already done political career, he added.

This narrative is only partially similar to the statement that came out in the Israeli media and through some US spokesmen. The similarity relates to the refusal by Hamas to release specific women hostages. However, the rationale behind this decision in the Israeli and US narrative is different. The Israeli-US claim is that Hamas has avoided the release of the Israeli women because of their treatment in custody.

According to a Cairo-based European source, Israel has not shared any real evidence with its friends in Europe, who have strongly supported its war on Gaza, for the claims of alleged mistreatment that the Israeli prisoners, including women, have gone through.

The claims run counter to the videos released by Hamas of the handover of Israeli hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) during the seven-day truce. In most of the videos, the hostages looked relaxed and, in some cases, shared a gesture or word of gratitude with the Hamas operatives upon their hand-over to the ICRC.

Some Israeli politicians even blamed Israeli security for allowing two elderly Israeli women hostages to express gratitude to Hamas for their safe period in captivity.

According to another Egyptian source, the videos did not go unnoticed among Israeli government members. It was not what they wanted the Israeli society to see, especially since these videos were being released in parallel to a growing public opinion that is strongly opposed to the war.

There is also a question about the identity of these women and whether they are civilians or not. The issue is still being discussed, and we are trying to get a full account on the number of hostages and the number of civilians. We are trying to get the details and are waiting for some answers from Hamas, he said.

He added that Hamas is not fully done with the count of the hostages and the identification of their locations. In any case, Hamas offered to release a number of elderly men, but the list proposed was declined by the Israeli side.

Both Egyptian sources said that the Egyptian and Qatari mediators are ready to resume negotiations on the prisoner swap and truce. Neither shared a fixed assessment on when this deal could be regained, but they both insisted that there is a chance  solid in the words of one and real in the word of another  to reinstate it.

According to the first source, the issue is bound to take at least a week because Netanyahu cannot now stop his troops from their movement in the south of Gaza. Since Israel has resumed its brutal war on Gaza, it has expanded its military invasion to move south into the heart of Khan Younis, one of the main cities of southern Gaza, with the claim of pursuing Hamas leaders and operatives.

The same source said that short of significant internal Israeli pressure, Netanyahu will try to push as many Palestinians as possible to the southernmost point in Gaza, near the Rafah Crossing with Egypt and then start negotiating the terms of the security and administrative management of the Strip.

We were working to keep the truce going as long as possible to allow for as much relief material to get into Gaza prior to the collapse of the truce as possible. Today, we still have the same objective of trying to help the [catastrophic] humanitarian situation in Gaza, he said.

We are working to reinstate the truce, not just to manage a very challenging humanitarian situation on the ground in Gaza, but also to avert the nightmarish scenario of pushing the over one million Palestinians from the north of the Strip to the already squeezed Palestinian side of Rafah to the Egyptian border.

If this happens, or rather when this happens, we will have to deal with the situation as a humanitarian situation, but for now we are trying to push for a ceasefire, he said.

Meanwhile, speculation has been increasing over the possible date of a ceasefire. According to several sources who spoke this week, all on condition of anonymity, the US has asked Netanyahu and his Defence Minister to wrap up the war within two weeks.

However, according to one Washington-based Arab diplomat, the two-week range is an aspired deadline to end the war and not an agreed deadline for the war to come to an end. The Americans have not received any promises from anyone in the Israeli Cabinet that the war will come to an end before Christmas, but we are hoping that this aspired US deadline will be observed by the Israeli government, he said.

The same source said that the Americans are already talking with their regional allies in the Middle East and with Israel about the day after the war. This discussion is an early sign that the countdown to the day after has started, the Arab source stated.

According to Egyptian sources, the details of managing the day after the war will be much harder to agree on than the details of the prisoner swap and the deal on the previous truce.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 7 December, 2023 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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Michael Flatley has told the High Court he and his family are "devastated" they had to leave their home in Cork following the detection of an "extremely hazardous" chemical.

The Riverdance star said his home was currently unsafe for human habitation and it will cost approximately 29m and two years to remedy the problem.

Mr Flatley is suing the Austin Newport Group Limited, the alleged main contractor, and others that carried out remediation works on his Castlehyde property located outside Fermoy, for negligence, endangerment, deceit, breach of health and safety regulations, building regulations an d breach of his property rights.

Flatley claims the parties involved that carried out work on the property in 2016 following a fire knew about the hazardous residue, but never informed him about it or took any steps to fix the issue.

Proceedings have also been brought against his former accountant Mr David Cushion, who Flatley claims was paid commission and acted as an agent for the insurance firms.

In a sworn statement to the court Mr Flatley said he and his family have "all suffered ill health since moving back to Castlehyde", following the remediation works.

"I believed I was one of the fittest people in Ireland, and despite the same I developed cancer", he added.

The Lord of the Dance star is seeking judgement in the sum of 25m

The case is due to return before the court at a later date.
A campaign to raise money for animal rescues across Ireland has been launched on Go Fund Me.

The Christmas fundraiser was launched by advocates called The Dog Helpers to help struggling Irish animal charities who they state are "drowning" in an animal welfare crisis.

It is currently a third of the way towards its 6,000 goal.

The Dog Helpers published the campaign with the following caption: "Christmas, to many, is a lovely time of year full of happiness, love and excitement. For Irish rescues its heartbreaking. This year has been particularly hard on our animal welfare charities, doors are shutting because the crowds of dogs being abandoned and victims of cruelty has increased like no other.

"Christmas is about to make this situation even worse, which is a very scary thought unfortunately rescues are full which means the last resort are pounds which can lead to dogs being euthanised."

Funds raised will help rescues which "don't receive near the amount of funding they need to operate" so they can save more animals.

These include My Lovely Horse Rescue, Husky Rescue, TNR west rescue, Milos Mission Rescue, and Wicklow Animal Welfare & Dogs Aid.

The Dog Helpers spokesperson continued: "...its not worth thinking about what will happen if they arent saved by a rescue.

"So please enter our fundraiser, to raise much needed funds for these rescues but to also give hope to the little innocent animals who are going to be abandoned this Christmas, have cruelty inflicted or be neglected."

A donation of 5 gives each donator the chance to win prizes, with five released each week in the lead up to Christmas and a 'mega prize' released on December 24.

The first prize (released on Week 1) included a bottle of prosecco, items from Newbridge Silverware, and a hamper of doggie treats.

To make a donation, click here.
Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe has refused to rule out interest in becoming the next managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) following speculation.

Mr Donohoe, who is also president of the Eurogroup of finance ministers, said his focus is on his current roles and the next general election.

Speaking to reporters at an event in Dublin city, he said: Ive been very clear that my interest is in continuing my work in Irish and European politics.

Im very privileged to be a member of this government and a TD for Dublin Central and Ive been re-elected to a second term as president of the Eurogroup  thats where my focus is.

Asked if he was completely ruling out taking the job, Mr Donohoe said: Theres no vacancy for that role and Ive made clear where my focus is.

He said that IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva, who has not publicly stated her intentions of seeking a second term, is doing an excellent job.

The Fine Gael politician said he has been asked many times about his ambitions and has always answered plainly.

He added: Im going to continue with the work I have and see it through. We have a general election coming up in Ireland in some point in the next 12-18 months.

I think the parties in Government at the moment have the ability to campaign individually but get re-elected and re-form this Government and thats where my energy will lie.

Asked if he would seek to be the next managing director of the IMF if his party is not re-elected to Government, he said: Youre asking me to comment on what may happen in the future on the back of a decision that another person may make.

The Eurogroup president said there is always speculation and conversations regarding who will take up roles in the future.

Earlier, the Minister for Finance said Mr Donohoe has all of the qualities and credentials and experience necessary to fulfil the IMF role but added he should be given time and space to come to a view on taking the job.

Michael McGrath told RTE: And isnt it a great thing that a member of the Irish government has been associated with the position of managing director of one of the most important global economic bodies and its a matter for him to come to a personal view ultimately, and I know what he has said through his spokesperson about the desire to serve the full term as president of the Eurogroup and to contest the next election.

My own view is that we should allow minister Donohoe the time and space as this develops over the months ahead to come to a final view on it.

If the opportunity is there, it really is for him to decide as to whether he wishes to put himself forward. But this will develop, we dont even yet know whether there will be a vacancy, whether Kristalina Georgieva will seek a second term  she may, she may not.

But he certainly would be a very strong and a very credible candidate and I think we should just allow this to develop.

I think he has a really good chance. Im not saying for a moment that we want him to put himself forward. But it is an incredible opportunity, if it becomes available. That is an if, and I think he has all of the qualities to fulfil the role.

Mr McGrath was also asked if he would like to become Irelands next European Commissioner, to which he replied: I mean, the same points apply here because that is an incredibly important position for Ireland.

Im in the position that Im in now for the past year, I had the privilege of serving as Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform. I love the job I do. I do want to bring forward another budget and it is my intention to contest the next election.

And, again, I think we should allow the party leaders to have their discussion across the first half of next year as to what is in the countrys best interests.

Asked about the possibility of Mr McGrath taking up a commissioner role in the EU, Mr Donohoe said: I think we do need to take a step back here  were all talking about who may be doing what in the future.

I know how much Michael McGrath values being Minister for Finance and what an exceptional job he is doing in that role.

And Im sure he  like me  is very focused on the duties he has.

Mr Donohoe said the finance minister would perform exceptionally in any number of roles in the future.

He added: I think he is an exceptionally accomplished colleague and politician.
[December 05, 2023] Global Enhanced Geothermal System Market Grows Steadily, Fueled by Environmental Concerns and Government Policies Tweet

DUBLIN, Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Enhanced Geothermal System Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends Opportunity, and Forecast 2018-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Worldwide Enhanced Geothermal System Market Witnesses Rapid Expansion with a CAGR of 5.19% from 2022 to 2028 The global Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) market, part of the broader geothermal energy industry, is gaining significant traction as a sustainable and low-carbon energy source. The market has been valued at USD 3.08 billion in 2022, and it is projected to experience robust growth in the forecast period with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.19% through 2028. EGS technology represents a revolutionary approach to harnessing the Earth's heat for electricity generation and other applications. Unlike conventional geothermal energy, which relies on naturally occurring high-temperature rock formations, EGS engineers create artificial reservoirs deep within the Earth's crust by injecting fluids at high pressures into boreholes, creating fractures and stimulating heat exchange with the surrounding rock. Environmental Concerns and Renewable Energy Transition Drive Market Growth Environmental concerns and the global transition towards renewable energy sources are key drivers propelling the EGS market's expansion. As the world confronts the impacts of climate change and dwindling fossil fuels, cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions are imperative. EGS, with its minimal greenhouse gas emissions and renewable nature, aligns perfectly with these goals. Unlike fossil fuels, EGS produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint in electricity generation. Energy Security and Independence Boost EGS Adoption Energy security and independence are paramount motivators for nations looking to reduce their reliance on imported fossil fuels, which can lead to economic vulnerabilities and geopolitical uncertainties. EGS provides a domestic, reliable energy source that is immune to supply disruptions and price fluctuations associated with fossil fuels. By tapping into their indigenous geothermal resources, countries can bolster their energy security, reduce trade deficits, and minimize fossil fuel dependency. Technological Advancements and Research Investments Spur EGS Growth Continuous technological advancements and research investments play pivotal roles in driving EGS market growth. Research and development efforts have significantly enhanced the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of EGS systems, resulting in improved drilling techniques, reservoir engineering, and heat exchange technologies. These innovations have expanded the feasibility of EGS projects and made them more appealing for clean energy production. Favorable Government Policies and Incentives Propel Market Expansion Favorable governmentpolicies and incentives are crucial drivers of the EGS market. Many countries have implemented regulatory frameworks and financial incentives such as feed-in tariffs, tax credits, grants, and renewable energy mandates to foster EGS development. Governments recognize the importance of diversifying their energy portfolios and achieving climate goals, which often involves promoting renewable energy sources like EGS.



Baseload Power Generation Capability Enhances EGS Appeal EGS technology's ability to provide baseload power generation is a significant driver of its global market growth. Unlike some intermittent renewable sources, EGS offers a stable and continuous supply of electricity, ensuring uninterrupted power for industries, businesses, and households. This baseload capability is crucial for stabilizing power grids and meeting consistent energy demand.

Regional Geothermal Potential and Resource Availability Drive EGS Adoption The availability of significant geothermal potential and resource availability in various regions serves as a driver for the global EGS market. Countries endowed with abundant geothermal resources often have a natural advantage for EGS development, incentivizing investment in EGS projects and enabling nations to capitalize on their indigenous geothermal energy. In conclusion, the global Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) market is thriving due to environmental concerns, energy security, technological advancements, government support, baseload power generation capabilities, and regional geothermal potential. These factors collectively facilitate the expansion of EGS technology and its contribution to the global clean energy landscape. Government Policies are Likely to Propel the Market Renewable Energy Mandates and Targets : Government mandates requiring a percentage of energy generation to come from renewable sources create a stable market for EGS developers and investors.

: Government mandates requiring a percentage of energy generation to come from renewable sources create a stable market for EGS developers and investors. Feed-In Tariffs (FiTs) and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) : FiTs and PPAs guarantee favorable prices for EGS-generated electricity, reducing risks and attracting private sector investments.

: FiTs and PPAs guarantee favorable prices for EGS-generated electricity, reducing risks and attracting private sector investments. Research and Development (R&D) Funding : Government-funded R&D programs drive innovation in EGS technology, reducing risks and attracting private investors.

: Government-funded R&D programs drive innovation in EGS technology, reducing risks and attracting private investors. Tax Incentives and Investment Credits : Tax incentives and investment credits lower upfront costs and attract private capital, making EGS projects more financially appealing.

: Tax incentives and investment credits lower upfront costs and attract private capital, making EGS projects more financially appealing. Geothermal Resource Leasing and Permitting : Efficient leasing and permitting policies reduce bureaucratic delays, encouraging EGS development.

: Efficient leasing and permitting policies reduce bureaucratic delays, encouraging EGS development. Environmental and Emission Reduction Targets: EGS aligns with emission reduction goals, providing a clean and stable energy source for countries aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Key Market Challenges Technical and Geological Complexity : EGS projects are technically challenging due to geological variability, reservoir engineering, hydraulic fracturing, and heat extraction efficiency.

: EGS projects are technically challenging due to geological variability, reservoir engineering, hydraulic fracturing, and heat extraction efficiency. High Initial Capital Costs and Financial Risks: EGS projects require substantial upfront investments for exploration, reservoir development, infrastructure, and operational risks. Segmental Insights Hot Dry Rock (HDR) Insights : The HDR segment offers abundant and widely distributed resources, high-temperature gradients, suitability for reservoir stimulation, scalability, predictable geological characteristics, and ongoing technological advancements.

: The HDR segment offers abundant and widely distributed resources, high-temperature gradients, suitability for reservoir stimulation, scalability, predictable geological characteristics, and ongoing technological advancements. Deep Insights: The Deep segment accesses higher temperature gradients, offers efficient heat extraction, provides stability, relies on drilling advancements, boasts widespread availability, and serves high-capacity energy generation. Regional Insights North America : North America leads the EGS market due to increasing demand for renewable energy, government support, and technological advancements.

: leads the EGS market due to increasing demand for renewable energy, government support, and technological advancements. Europe : Europe sees growth in the EGS market due to rising demand for renewable energy and initiatives like the European Green Deal.

: sees growth in the EGS market due to rising demand for renewable energy and initiatives like the European Green Deal. Asia Pacific : Asia Pacific experiences EGS market growth driven by energy demand and growing awareness of geothermal benefits. The report covers various segments of the Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) market, including resource types (Hot Dry Rock, Sedimentary Basin, Radiogenic, Molten Magma), depth (Shallow, Deep), simulation methods (Hydraulic, Chemical, Thermal), end-users (Residential, Commercial), and power station types (Dry Steam Power Station, Flash Steam Power Station, Binary Cycle Power Station). Companies profiled include: Enel

Ormat Technologies

AltaRock Energy

Shell

Kenya Electricity Generating Company

BESTEC

Geothermie Bouillante

Fuji Electric

Calpine

Energy Development Corporation For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/5j428k 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

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[December 06, 2023] NEO Semiconductor Releases Technology CAD (TCAD) Simulation Data for Ground-Breaking 3D X-DRAM Tweet

Innovative 3D floating body cell with a unique dual-gate structure delivers high sensing margins, retention times, and endurance cycles SAN JOSE, Calif., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NEO Semiconductor, a leading developer of innovative technologies for 3D NAND flash and DRAM memory, today announced findings of 3D X-DRAM simulations. Semiconductor manufacturers and engineers use TCAD to simulate emerging technologies and optimize new products. Explorations of TCAD models and simulations reveal that 3D X-DRAM supports: < 1 V (volt) operation voltage.

< 3 ns (nanosecond) write time (cell level).

> 20 uA (microampere) sensing margin.

> 100 ms (millisecond) data retention time.

> 1016 (10 quadrillion) endurance cycles. "Semiconductor manufacturers rely on TCAD tools to accelerate development and optimize products using virtual experiments rather than physical ones," said Andy Hsu, Founder and CEO of NEO Semiconductor and an accomplished technology inventor with more than 120 U.S. patents. "We use these same tools to create models and run simulations demonstrating the feasibility of adopting 3D X-DRAM technology to bring 3D DRAM products to market." 3D X-DRAM uses innovative Floatng Body Cell (FBC) technology with one transistor and zero capacitors for each data bit. A simple 3D structure makes 3D X-DRAM less risky and costly than 3D DRAM alternatives. Manufacturing 3D X-DRAM involves a self-aligned, 3D NAND-like process with high yields. NEO estimates 3D X-DRAM achieves 128 Gb density with 230 layers4 times better than 2D DRAM.



"A new memory architecture with 3D DRAM technology will represent the future of memory in order to accelerate and scale DRAM to new levels," said Jay Kramer President of Network Storage Advisors Inc. "NEO Semiconductor is leading the way with an innovative design that not only will address new levels of performance, reduced power consumption and smaller footprint but will be the first to power the next generation of memory that can enable new applications in the marketplace." NEO Semiconductor will give an invited speech about 3D X-DRAM in the 16th IEEE International Memory Workshop (IMW) being held May 12th-15th, 2024 in Seoul, Republic of Korea. Andy Hsu, CEO will release additional TCAD Simulation Results for this ground-breaking technology. Interested parties are invited to request a meeting with NEO's management by contacting [email protected]. IMW is sponsored by the IEEE Electron Devices Society and designed to gather the memory community to discuss technologies, applications, strategies, and markets.

About NEO Semiconductor NEO Semiconductor is a high-tech company focused on advancing 3D NAND flash and DRAM technologies. The company was founded in 2012 by Andy Hsu and a team in San Jose, California, and owns more than 24 U.S. patents. In 2020, the company made a breakthrough in 3D NAND architecture named X-NAND that can achieve SLC performance from TLC and QLC memory to provide high-speed, low-cost solutions for many applications, including 5G and AI. In 2022, the company launched its X-DRAM technology, representing a new architecture that can deliver DRAM with the world's lowest power consumption. In 2023, NEO launched its ground-breaking 3D X-DRAM technology, a game changer in the memory industry, enabling the world's first 3D NAND-like DRAM to solve capacity scaling bottlenecks and move the market past the limitations of 2D DRAM. For more information, visit https://neosemic.com/. Media and Analyst Contact: Maya Lustig

Email: [email protected] Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2293721/TCAD_simulations.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2068694/NEO_Semiconductor_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/neo-semiconductor-releases-technology-cad-tcad-simulation-data-for-ground-breaking-3d-x-dram-302007447.html SOURCE NEO Semiconductor

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[December 05, 2023] CHARGEPOINT SHAREHOLDER ALERT BY FORMER LOUISIANA ATTORNEY GENERAL: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Reminds Investors With Losses in Excess of $100,000 of Lead Plaintiff Deadline in Class Action Lawsuit Against ChargePoint Holdings, Inc. - CHPT Tweet

Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until January 29, 2024 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against ChargePoint Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CHPT), if they purchased the Company's securities between June 1, 2023 and November 16, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. What You May Do If you purchased securities of ChargePoint and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ([email protected]), or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-chpt/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by January 29, 2024.



About the Lawsuit ChargePoint and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

On November 16, 2023, post-market, the Company announced its preliminary financial results for 3Q 2024, disclosing that revenue had fallen to "$108 million to $113 million, as compared to $150 to $165 million as previously expected," and an additional non-cash inventory impairment charge in the amount of $42 million "related to product transitions and to better align inventory with current demand," which was expected to result in "GAAP gross margin of negative 23% to negative 21%," as well as the replacement of both its CEO and CFO, effective immediately. On this news, shares of ChargePoint fell $1.11, or 35%, to close at $2.02 per share on November 17, 2023, on unusually heavy trading volume. The case is Khan v. ChargePoint Holdings, Inc., et al., No. 23-cv-06172. About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC KSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients - including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, California, Louisiana and New Jersey. To learn more about KSF, you may visit http://ksfcounsel.com/. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205047885/en/

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NEWS PROVIDED BY

Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights

Dec. 6, 2023



NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /Standard Newswire/ -- The following is submitted by Bill Donohue, President, Catholic League:

The Left is very good at making up bogeymen, and one of their favorites is Christian nationalism. The latest iteration of this madness is an article in the Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion; a subsequent analysis of it was recently published in psypost.org. As a sociologist, I am particularly interested in this issue: sociologists are the ones most responsible for promoting the fiction that America is threatened by Christian nationalists.

The journal article, written by sociologist Fanhao Nie of the University of Massachusetts Lowell, claims that Christian nationalists are likely to have negative views of atheists. Had he inquired if atheists have negative views of Christians, in general, he would have found they dothe evidence is overwhelming. But that was not what he set out to do.

What exactly is Christian nationalism? Nie says it is "broadly defined as an ideology that calls for the integration of Christianity and American civic life." We get the gist of it, but this is so elastic a definition that it might mean something as innocent as noting that our rights come from God. In fact, one of the sociologists cited by the author, Andrew Whitehead, has said exactly that.

When Wayne LaPierre, the head of the National Rifle Association (NRA), gave a speech on the Founding documents, Whitehead, in a piece he co-authored, saw Christian nationalism written all over it. The NRA chief said our freedoms were "granted by God to all Americans as our American birthright."

This is not the voice of a Christian nationalistit is the voice of Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence. Our unalienable rights, he said, come not from government but from our "Creator." Whitehead may not like this, but what LaPierre said is historically accurate.

"The genius of those documents, the brilliance of America, of our country itself," LaPierre also said, "is that all of our freedoms in this country are for every single citizen."

Most Americans would see this for what it is: an accurate and sober account. Some might even say it is pedestrian. But to those whose job it is to findor inventinstances of Christian nationalism, this was like hitting the jackpot. The fact that LaPierre did not say that our freedoms are for Christianshe said they were "for every single citizen"should have given Whitehead pause. After all, it seriously undercuts his position.

If Christian nationalism were the threat that those who promote this nonsense say it is, most Americans would oppose it. In fact, most never heard of it. In a survey released last year, Pew Research found that 54 percent never heard or read anything about it, and an additional 16 percent said they heard of it "a little." Of the few who had heard of it, more held an unfavorable view (24 percent) than a favorable one (5 percent).

There is a reason for this. Christian nationalism doesn't exist, save for faculty lounges, sociological circles and left-wing activist organizations. And it is they who have influenced those who hold a negative view.

The Pew story on this survey printed some of the comments made by those who had a favorable and unfavorable view of Christian nationalism.

Here's a sample of those who hold a favorable view:

"People who love God and USA."



"A society in which patriotism and religion are inseparably entwined doing the will of God in and for America and believing God is on America's side."



"Values of society based on Judaic-Christian values and priorities."



"Religious people who love their country."



"A nation that espouses Christian principles and prioritizes the faith above secular humanistic principle that are more prevalent in the secular society of the U.S. today."

Here's a sample of those who hold an unfavorable view:

"Attempting to use the government to impose an extreme, fringe version of Christianity on everyone in the nation, regardless of others' religious views. They are no different than al-Qaida or the Taliban."



"Racist, misogynistic, White, older, retro group of people wanting to return the U.S. to a time when everyone 'knew their place.' Narrow-minded view that the Bible is key to life for everyone."



"Militant Christians openly attempting to install a right-wing Christian theocracy leading to a Christian ethno-state."



"It's code used by extremists to indicate government for White Christians by White Christians."



"White supremacists and male superiority."

All of those who offered a favorable view were Catholic or Protestant. All of those who offered an unfavorable view said they ascribed to no religion.

Regarding the latter, notice the hysteria. And the hate.

It is not those who are proud to live in a country founded on our religious heritage who are a threatit is those who portray them as a threat. They are the real menace. Inventing bogeymen so as to trash patriotism and Christianity is a sick preoccupation of those on the Left. It's time our side ripped the mask off these demagogues.
[December 05, 2023] Marcus & Millichap Enters Strategic Partnership with EquityMultiple Tweet

Marcus & Millichap (NYSE:MMI), a leading commercial real estate brokerage firm specializing in investment sales, financing, research and advisory services, announced today it has made an equity investment in EquityMultiple, a New York-based real estate financing and investment technology platform. The partnership will provide sponsors and operators supplemental private capital financing sources and give accredited investors streamlined access to unique real estate equity and credit opportunities. "Our investment in EquityMultiple allows MMI to be part of a leading innovative technology platform that further expands our array of capital sources and solutions and creates synergies to facilitate the acquisition, recapitalization and restructuring needs of any commercial real estate transaction," said J.D. Parker, Marcus & Millichap's chief operating officer, Eastern Division. "Our firm strategically invests in proptech ventures that we believe will help transform the industry and we are excited to join forces with the EquityMultiple team." EquityMultiple streamlines and simplifies the process of building strong, diversified commercial real estate (CRE) portfolios by utilizing proprietary, data-driven undewriting methodologies, offering fractional investments in individual properties as well as private CRE funds. With industry-leading asset management, personalized support, and rigorous asset selection, EquityMultiple takes an institutional approach to real estate crowdfunding.



"Since 2015, EquityMultiple has provided capital markets solutions to sponsors and access to the types of commercial real estate opportunities that have long been hallmarks of institutional portfolios," said Charles Clinton, CEO and cofounder, EquityMultiple. "Our partnership with Marcus & Millichap is an exciting step for our firm and the real estate investing fintech space more broadly." Parker stated: "With this partnership, we continue our longstanding tradition of providing the commercial real estate industry with advantages that groundbreaking technologies have to offer. EquityMultiple's diverse array of real estate investment products expand a service line and broadens our spectrum of debt and equity sources."

About Marcus & Millichap, Inc. (NYSE: MMI) Marcus & Millichap, Inc. is a leading brokerage firm specializing in commercial real estate investment sales, financing, research and advisory services with offices throughout the United States and Canada. As of December 31, 2022, the company had 1,904 investment sales and financing professionals in 81 offices who provide investment brokerage and financing services to sellers and buyers of commercial real estate. The company also offers market research, consulting and advisory services to clients. Marcus & Millichap closed 12,272 transactions in 2022, with a sales volume of approximately $86.3 billion. For additional information, please visit www.MarcusMillichap.com. About EquityMultiple EquityMultiple is a leading investment management and technology firm whose mission is to provide unique real estate private equity and private credit opportunities to accredited investors. EquityMultiple's network of 50,000 investors has participated in over $5 billion in commercial real estate transactions since 2015. The firm partners with experienced real estate operators in strong markets across the country and offers investments in both individual properties and funds through its innovative platform. For more information, please visit https://www.equitymultiple.com/. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205660395/en/

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[December 05, 2023] Scotland Set to Welcome Investors from Across the Globe for EIE24 Event Tweet

The renowned EIE event which aims to give investors and entrepreneurs access to the Scottish tech ecosystem will return next year, after a two-year hiatus. EIE24 will bring together over 130 investors from around the world for two days of networking, discovery, and deal-making with some of Scotland's most innovative companies. Established in 2008, EIE connects global investors with Scotland's thriving tech ecosystem and the country's most promising globally relevant tech companies of tomorrow. Past EIE events have supported over 540 companies, helping them go on to raise more than $1.5 billion in downstream funding. The latest Local Digital Index by techUK revealed that the estimated 14,504 companies in Scotland's tech sector - some 400,000 people - have grown by 2.8 per cent this year and the cumulative growth in tech companies in Scotland had increased by 82% in 10 years. EIE24, which will be hosted by BBC Scotland's Innovation Correspondent Laura Goodwin, will take place at iconic Edinburgh locations, including Edinburgh Castle, The John McIntyre Conference Centre and Dynamic Earth on 30th April and 1st May 2024. Investors can expect two days of networking opportunities and the ability to meet innovative companies, who are providing globally significant solutions. Duncan Martin, Head of Entrepreneurship at The University of Edinburgh's Bayes Centre said: "We are excited to announce the return of EIE in 2024 with a bold new vision. EIE is a key event in Scotland's thriving tech scene and in 2024 we are evolving it to become a wider platform, showcasing the best opportunities our ecosystem has to offer to our international investor colleagues. "Scotland has an incredible tech ecosystem, with innovative high potential companies looking for investment that are ready to deliver global impact. EIE24 will shine a light on investment-ready, high-growth technology companies, as well as start-ups with the potential to scale with the right investors." The relaunched EIE24 event is delivered in partnership with the Data Driven Initiative and represents a cornerstone of the region's 1.3 billion Edinburgh and South East Scoland City Region Deal.



Mark Logan, Chief Entrepreneurial Advisor to Scottish Government, said: "I'm delighted to see EIE return to Scotland, in an enhanced and updated format that will comprehensively showcase Scotland's most exciting and innovative new tech companies to the national and international investor community."

As well as access to some of the most exciting high-growth companies around, the event will also incorporate insightful discussions and opportunities for attendees to connect with key figures across Scotland's tech ecosystem. Registration is now open so investors and companies interested in finding out more about EIE24 can register interest at www.eie-invest.com Ends. Supporting images can be found here. Notes for the Editor About DDI The Data Driven Initiative (DDI) is part of the Edinburgh and South-East Scotland City Region Deal, a 15-year investment programme jointly funded by both governments and regional partners. The DDI conglomerate consists of six hubs based at the University of Edinburgh (Bayes Centre, Usher Institute, the Edinburgh International Data Facility, Edinburgh Futures Institute and Easter Bush) and Heriot-Watt University (the National Robotarium) whose collective innovation and strategic developments are primed to make Edinburgh the Data Capital of Europe. About the Bayes Centre The Bayes Centre is The University of Edinburgh's Innovation Hub for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. It delivers EIE on behalf of the Data-Driven Innovation Initiative hubs and is supported by Edinburgh Innovations, The University of Edinburgh's commercialisation service, in contribution to the Data-Driven Entrepreneurship programme. The core pillars of the Bayes Centre's approach are data science education, tech entrepreneurship, and industrially driven, multidisciplinary research. They provide programmes, networks, and facilities that complement the existing strengths of our community and help boost The University of Edinburgh's impact across the city, region, nationally, and internationally through new activity with external partners. Their programmes focus on providing upskilling and lifelong learning opportunities to professionals and communities, creating new opportunities for multi-disciplinary, industrially oriented research and innovation projects, and supporting entrepreneurs in starting and growing their ventures from inception to scale-up. About Edinburgh Innovations Edinburgh Innovations (EI) is The University of Edinburgh's commercialisation service. It benefits society and the economy by helping researchers, students and industry drive innovation. EI seeks opportunities and builds partnerships for mutual benefit, making the journey easy and adding value at every stage. EI makes ideas work for a better world. Find out more on the EI website. https://edinburgh-innovations.ed.ac.uk/ View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205345920/en/

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[December 05, 2023] Baron & Budd Obtains $2.5 Million Settlement from ADCO Industries for Evading Customs Duties Tweet

Today, the national law firm Baron & Budd announced a $2.5 million settlement with ADCO Industries, Xiamen Atlantis MFC Co., Raymond E. Davis, and Calvin Chang in the largest customs fraud case in which the government has intervened involving a scheme to avoid payment of tariffs enacted during the Trump administration. This False Claims Act suit was brought forward by company insiders who uncovered a double-invoicing scheme between ADCO, a seller of commercial products like shelves, dollies, and safety cutters, and their supplier, Xiamen. According to the suit, ADCO conspired with the Chinese manufacturer to fraudulently underreport the value of the imported goods to the government in order to pay duties on the deflated product values rather than their actual value. In 2018 and 2019, the Trump Administration imposed an unprecedented schedule of tariffs and duties on thousands of products imported into the United States-largely targeting products imported from China. Although these are commonly referred to as the "Trump tariffs," the Biden Administration generally has kept these increased tariffs and duties in place. As a result, customs fraud is on the rise, as some companies are using illegal methods to avoid paying what they owe. "Experts continue to debate whether the Trump tariffs have accomplished their goal of protecting American labor interests at home," according to Baron & Budd shareholder Andrew Miller. "What is not debatable is the fact that these tariffs have created a greater incentive for fraud by companies who elect not to pay the increased duties." Given that millions of containers and billions of dollars worth of goods enter the country each day, it is impossible for U.S. Customs and Border Protection to detect every instance of fraud on its own, especially while companies hatch new schemes to skirt payment of these tariffs. To combat this issue, the government relies on whistleblowers to both detect and prosecute customs fraud.



These individuals often possess valuable insider knowledge concerning their own company's fraudulent activities or may observe similar misconduct by a competitor. Whistleblowers with information regarding a company's evasion of tariffs, duties, or other customs-related fraud can initiate legal action under the False Claims Act. This legislation empowers whistleblowers to claim a portion of the funds recovered by the government in the event of a successful enforcement action. Under the settlement announced today, the whistleblowers will receive 20 percent of the amount recovered by the government. "Customs fraud not only undermines the integrity of our trade system, but also cheats the government and taxpayers out of critical funds," said Baron & Budd attorney Noah Rich. "Whistleblowers play a vital role in exposing unethical actions and helping ensure a level playing field for honest businesses."

Customs duties are essential for ensuring fair competition among U.S. manufacturers. Moreover, the funds generated from these duties are allocated to critical programs, including veteran's benefits, education, and infrastructure development. When companies engage in tactics to evade their duty obligations, they not only gain an unjust advantage in U.S. markets, but they deprive the federal government and taxpayers out of much-needed revenue. The Qui Tam attorneys at Baron & Budd are actively working with the U.S. Department of Justice on customs fraud cases. Potential whistleblowers with knowledge of customs fraud might be company insiders working in logistics, bookkeeping, and accounts receivable, or customs import brokers. Some of the most common fraudulent schemes to evade tariffs or duties include misclassifying imported goods, misrepresenting their country of origin, fraudulently underreporting their value, and transshipping and relabeling products. Company insiders and customs brokers alike should be wary of Chinese imports that suddenly reflect product values significantly lower than the costs of those very same items just a few years ago. This is often a tell-tale sign that a company is fraudulently reducing its customs duties owed to the government. To learn more about customs fraud and how to combat it, visit www.becomeawhistleblower.com. About Baron & Budd, P.C. Baron & Budd, P.C. is among the largest and most accomplished plaintiffs' law firms in the country. With more than 40 years of experience, Baron & Budd has the expertise and resources to handle complex litigation throughout the United States. As a law firm that takes pride in remaining at the forefront of litigation, Baron & Budd has spearheaded many significant cases for hundreds of public entities and tens of thousands of individuals. Since the firm was founded in 1977, Baron & Budd has achieved substantial national acclaim for its work on cutting-edge litigation, trying hundreds of cases to verdict and settling tens of thousands of cases in areas of litigation as diverse and significant as dangerous and highly addictive pharmaceuticals, defective medical devices, asbestos and mesothelioma, wildfires, environmental contamination, fraudulent banking practices, e-cigarettes, motor vehicles, federal whistleblower cases, and other consumer fraud issues. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205222057/en/

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[December 05, 2023] HIWARE by NETAND: Transforming IAM Landscape with Automated Solutions Tweet

SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In security risks, ransomware and malware attacks threaten to disrupt operations, jeopardizing customer data and organizational reliability. In response to these challenges, the cybersecurity community turns to a stalwart defender: Identity and Access Management (IAM). Gartner recognizes privileged accounts as a prime target for cyber attackers, making the management and security of these accounts crucial to preventing unauthorized access and potential security breaches. Gartner also keeps an eye on emerging trends in the IAM space, including the integration of IAM with other security solutions, cloud-based IAM, and the use of artificial intelligence to enhance IAM capabilities. Now, what underlies the fundamental necessity for Identity and Access Management? A substantial number of reported security incidents trace back to lapses in user activity management. Inaccurate access grants and the misuse of root accounts emerge as primary concerns. However, the solution lies in the efficiency gained through the management of user access and activities. Enter a standout player in this field  a company and solution poised to address the of user management. NETAND, a notable IAM vendor with over 3,000 global references, has been at the forefront of delivering innovative IAM solutions since its incorporation in 2007. Originally based in South Korea, NETAND has garnered attention in global markets, including the Asia Pacific regions where their global footprint starts. With a strong commitment to expansion, NETAND has recently forged partnerships with a great number of new collaborators across Southeast Asia, further solidifying its presence in the region. Looking ahead, the company is poised for substantial growth, with plans to triple its partnerships in the coming year.



This strategic move not only showcases NETAND's commitment to global collaboration but also positions the company as a key player in addressing cybersecurity challenges on an international scale. These new partnerships will undoubtedly contribute to a more robust cybersecurity landscape, as NETAND continues to extend its expertise and solutions to a broader clientele. NETAND's commitment to excellence is underscored by its recent achievement of the international standard certification for Information Security Management Systems, ISO/IEC 27001. This certification demonstrates NETAND's dedication to maintaining the highest security standards and significantly amplifies its credibility in the market. Organizations seeking IAM solutions can now rely on NETAND for cutting-edge technology and adherence to globally recognized security protocols.

Addressing the cybersecurity challenges, NETAND's flagship solution, HIWARE, sets the standard for IAM with cutting-edge technology and expertise. The solution goes beyond traditional IAM functionalities, offering a comprehensive Identity Management (IM) solution that employs an automated and integrated approach to managing user accounts across diverse systems; whether on-premises or in the active directory. HIWARE synchronizes and consolidates identity types in real-time, automating account and password management processes to enhance efficiency. The strength of HIWARE Identity Management lies in its ability to provide centralized, integrated management of all heterogeneous devices' accounts by standardized security policies. This streamlines operations and ensures a proactive approach to cybersecurity. NETAND goes above and beyond by providing a Privileged Access Management (PAM) solution. This facilitates end-to-end management and supervision of users, controlling all accesses and operations in clients' IT infrastructure. Key features include access control, multi-factor authentication, real-time monitoring, command prohibition, and more. Both system and DBMS are supported with sophisticated functions, ensuring a comprehensive security posture. Addressing the common challenge of integrating IAM with existing systems and digital infrastructures, HIWARE seamlessly incorporates with clients' processes while prioritizing usability. As organizations navigate complex threats in the dynamic IT industry, NETAND empowers them to simplify and automate account and access control management. With the automated solution, the IT team is relieved of manual tasks, ensuring granular access controls and permissions without compromising efficiency. In a world increasingly reliant on IT infrastructure, NETAND provides a beacon of simplicity amidst complexity, securing enterprise assets and fostering a resilient digital ecosystem. As the company continues to expand its partnerships and global presence, it stands as a testament to innovation and excellence in the ever-evolving landscape of Identity and Access Management. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/hiware-by-netand-transforming-iam-landscape-with-automated-solutions-302003017.html SOURCE NETAND

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[December 05, 2023] BARCLAYS PLC SHAREHOLDER ALERT: CLAIMSFILER REMINDS INVESTORS WITH LOSSES IN EXCESS OF $100,000 of Lead Plaintiff Deadline in Class Action Lawsuit Against Barclays PLC - BCS Tweet

NEW ORLEANS, Dec. 05, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until January 2, 2024 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Barclays PLC (NYSE: BCS), if they purchased the Companys securities between July 22, 2019 and October 12, 2023, inclusive (the Class Period). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Central District of California.

Get Help Barclays investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-bcs-4/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options. About the Lawsuit Barclays and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws. The alleged false and misleading statements and omissions include, but are not limited to, that: (i) contrary to false public assertions, the Companys former CEO, James Staley, had a close relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, was reportedly aware of Epsteins criminal activities and may have even sexually assaulted a victim who had previously been trafficked by Epstein; (ii) if discovered, the relationship and potential criminal activity could bring reputational, legal, and financial harm to Company; (iii) the Companys response to an inquiry by the British Financial Conduct Authority regarding Staley's relationship with Epstein was materially false; (iv) when the Company became aware of information contradicting its response to the inquiry, it failed to update the response so that it would be accurate, or otherwise take any meaningful action; and (v) as a result, the Companys statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.



The case is Merritt v. Barclays Plc, et al., 23-cv-9217. About ClaimsFiler

ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations. To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.



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[December 05, 2023] CHARGEPOINT SHAREHOLDER ALERT: CLAIMSFILER REMINDS INVESTORS WITH LOSSES IN EXCESS OF $100,000 of Lead Plaintiff Deadline in Class Action Lawsuit Against ChargePoint Holdings, Inc. - CHPT Tweet

NEW ORLEANS, Dec. 05, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until January 29, 2024 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against ChargePoint Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CHPT), if they purchased the Companys securities between June 1, 2023 and November 16, 2023, inclusive (the Class Period). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.

Get Help ChargePoint investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-chpt/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options. About the Lawsuit ChargePoint and certain of its executives are charge with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.



On November 16, 2023, post-market, the Company announced its preliminary financial results for 3Q 2024, disclosing that revenue had fallen to $108 million to $113 million, as compared to $150 to $165 million as previously expected, and an additional non-cash inventory impairment charge in the amount of $42 million related to product transitions and to better align inventory with current demand, which was expected to result in GAAP gross margin of negative 23% to negative 21%, as well as the replacement of both its CEO and CFO, effective immediately. On this news, shares of ChargePoint fell $1.11, or 35%, to close at $2.02 per share on November 17, 2023, on unusually heavy trading volume.

The case is Khan v. ChargePoint Holdings, Inc., et al., No. 23-cv-06172. About ClaimsFiler ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations. To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.



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[December 05, 2023] TPIsoftware Sweeps Taiwan Excellence Awards 2024 for the Second Year Running with Three Accolades Tweet

TAIPEI, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- TPIsoftware, a pioneer in the software industry, proudly announces its consecutive victory at the prestigious 32nd Taiwan Excellence Awards. The company has clinched three distinguished accolades for its state-of-the-art proprietary software products and solution: the " Enterprise API Management Platform digiRunner ," the " One-Stop Log Management Platform digiLogs ," and the " AI-powered Insurance Claims Processing Solution SysTalk.ai ." This remarkable achievement underscores TPIsoftware's leading position in Taiwan's software sector and reaffirms its dedication to software innovation. Known as the Oscars of Taiwan's Industries, the Taiwan Excellence Awards celebrate the best products in Taiwan representing innovation and excellence. Winners have been selected by an independent jury composed of professionals across industries, with 182 submissions from 320 enterprises recognized for their outstanding product performance. "Our consecutive accolades at the Taiwan Excellence Awards is a testament to our strong commitment to developing globally competitive software. Currently, we are intensifying our global presence by forging strategic alliances in key markets across the Asia-Pacific region and Europe. Moreover, we have been actively engaged in international promotion activities sponsored by Taiwan Excellence Awards to showcase Taiwan' robust software expertise." said Yilan Yeh, CEO of TPIsoftware. Acclaimed for the second straight year, TPIsoftware's digiRunner stands out as the only proprietary API management platform in Taiwan compliant with Open Banking and Open Government standards. Suitable for industries seeking efficient management of massive APIs sch as finance, healthcare and government, It helps enterprises build connected and innovative service ecosystems, and ensures uninterrupted service delivery with its unique function designs and patented technology. For example, the sandbox for API mock test enables parallel development between backend and frontend for fast service rollout; the four built-in mechanisms "API Adaptive Cache", "Gateway Load Balance", "Non-blocking API" and "Containerization" provide 100% zero downtime to enhance operational efficiency.



digiLogs, another consecutive award-winning product from TPIsoftware, exemplifies its robust capabilities by enhancing IT operational efficiency with powerful log management features. The features such as Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) provide visual topology for endpoint monitoring to facilitate issue identification, with Root Cause Analysis (RCA) further giving total visibility over systems for real-time troubleshooting, thereby significantly optimizing enterprise IT governance. ISO 27001 certified, digiLogs fulfills enterprises' audit and regulatory requirements. TPIsoftware's foray into AI-enabled solutions has been marked by SysTalk.ai. Catered to the insurance industry, the AI-powered Insurance Claims Processing Solution harnesses AI text analysis and NLU to extract valuable insights from complex documents and streamline the claims process. It further features SysTalk.ICR to provide AI-powered OCR technology for automated document processing of all kinds of document formats such as identifying ICD 9/10-CM codes on medical certificates. Moreover, the exclusive "Adaptive AI Model" allows enterprises to enhance the model's reliability independently without a specialized AI team.

TPIsoftware has once again shone a spotlight on its sophisticated technology and forward-thinking mindset, making it the top-ranked software company in Taiwan. About TPIsoftware TPIsoftware is the No. 1 digital transformation software company in Taiwan providing proprietary enterprise service middle platform DigiFusion and conversational AI product SysTalk.ai domestically and overseas. TPIsoftware also offers comprehensive software solutions and cloud services with extensive cross-national project experiences. Globally recognized, we are trusted by customers across industries such as BFSI, government, retail, e-commerce, manufacturing, healthcare and more. Subscribe to Newsletter | Website | Facebook | LinkedIn View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/tpisoftware-sweeps-taiwan-excellence-awards-2024-for-the-second-year-running-with-three-accolades-302006031.html SOURCE TPIsoftware

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[December 05, 2023] ROBLOX SHAREHOLDER ALERT: CLAIMSFILER REMINDS INVESTORS WITH LOSSES IN EXCESS OF $100,000 of Lead Plaintiff Deadline in Class Action Lawsuit Against Roblox Corporation - RBLX Tweet

NEW ORLEANS, Dec. 05, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until January 26, 2024 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Roblox Corporation (NYSE: RBLX), if they purchased or otherwise acquired the Companys shares between March 10, 2021 and February 15, 2022, inclusive (the Class Period). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.

Get Help Roblox investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-rblx/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options. About the Lawsuit Roblox and certain of its executives ae charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.



The alleged false and misleading statements and omissions include, but are not limited to, that: (i) the Roblox platform had insufficient content controls and lacked user spending restrictions; (ii) these inadequate controls enabled younger users to play games with inappropriate content and make excessive, unauthorized purchases; (iii) a material portion of the Companys bookings and revenue growth was due to these excessive, unauthorized purchases; (iv) the Companys planned rollout of enhanced parental controls would negatively impact Q4 2021 and 2022 bookings; and (v) based on the foregoing, the Companys bookings and revenue growth were unsustainable throughout the Class Period. The case is DeKalb County Pension Fund v. Roblox Corporation, et al., 23-cv-10347.

About ClaimsFiler ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations. To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.



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[December 05, 2023] DOLLAR GENERAL SHAREHOLDER ALERT: CLAIMSFILER REMINDS INVESTORS WITH LOSSES IN EXCESS OF $100,000 of Lead Plaintiff Deadline in Class Action Lawsuits Against Dollar General Corporation - DG Tweet

NEW ORLEANS, Dec. 05, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until January 26, 2024 to file lead plaintiff applications in securities class action lawsuits against Dollar General Corporation (NYSE: DG), if they purchased the Companys securities between May 28, 2020 and August 31, 2023, inclusive (the Class Period). These actions are pending in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee.

Get Help Dollar General investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-dg-2/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options. About the Lawsuit Dollar General and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose mateial information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.



On August 31, 2023, the Company announced its 2Q 2023 financial results, disclosing among other things, cuts to its FY23 sales and profit outlook, decreases in operating profits of 24.2% and EPS of 28.5%, and that it expect[ed] an incremental operating profit headwind of up to $170 million in the second half of 2023, consisting of $95 million for markdowns on existing inventory and $75 million on increased store personnel to support inventory and pricing control measures. On this news, the price of Dollar Generals shares plummeted $19.16 per share, or 12%, on August 31, 2023, on unusually high trading volume of more than 19 million shares.

The case is Washtenaw County Employees Retirement System v. Dollar General Corporation, et al., 23-cv-01250. A subsequent case expanded the class period, Edmonds v. Dollar General Corporation, et al., 23-cv-01259. About ClaimsFiler ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations. To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.



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[December 05, 2023] Sub-forum Themed "Guangzhou Nansha Joins Hands with the World" Successfully Held Tweet

GUANGZHOU, China, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On December 4, the sub-forum themed "Guangzhou Nansha Joins Hands with the World" was successfully held during the 5th World Media Summit. This grand event was attended by domestic leaders in relevant fields, international media representatives, renowned experts, scholars, and entrepreneurs, all of whom have paid close attention to Nansha's development, according to Nansha District People's Government. Focusing on the theme of the summit, guests from both at home and abroad delivered speeches on topics, such as Characteristics, Conservation, and Utilization of China's Marine Ecology, Green Environment and Climate Change, Science & Technology and Industrial Innovation, Green and Beautiful Nansha and the Construction of an Ecological Bay Area, and International Commercial Arbitration. Wei Min, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Nansha District Committee and Executive Deputy Head of Nansha District, said in his speech that Nansha has benefited from multiple national support strategies as the only state-level new area in Guangdong Province, the largest area in China (Guangdong) Pilot Free Trade Zone, and the demonstration zone of all-round cooperation among Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. As stressed by Xie Peng, Vice Editor-in-Chief of the Outlook Weekly of Xinhua News Agency, the media community should play an active role in promoting international friendship and boosting global development. Nansha should take advantage of the summit to showcas its stance and determination to join hands with the world. Embarking on a new journey, Nansha, at the heart of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), is answering with confidence to worldwide media's questions of the times. With a vibrant momentum, Nansha is attracting more attention from global media and emerging as a new window through which China will show the world its remarkable achievements for modernization and high-quality development.



In recent years, Nansha has been stepping up efforts towards investment promotion. Since the beginning of this year, Nansha has signed 17 new 10-billion-level projects with a total investment of over 450 billion yuan and also introduced more than 270 projects from the Fortune Global 500 companies. At the heart of the GBA, Nansha is brimming with boundless vitality and allure. With the ambition of creating a "window to the world", Nansha is building a fertile ground for multinational enterprises to develop. "Our company has decided to settle in Nansha not only for its strategic position as the geometric center of the GBA, but also for the forward-thinking plans of the Nansha District Government in aspects such as future development, social construction, and talent attraction. I cannot wait to see Nansha become a metropolitan area that attracts global capital and talent," said Xin Weixian, Deputy General Manager of Guangzhou Lee & Man Technology Co., Ltd.

According to Ahmed Sallam, Advisor and Former Undersecretary of Egypt's State Information Service, Nansha is creating a climate investment and financing pilot zone with its unique experience and its commitment to building an international climate finance center. The experience has brought prosperity to climate investment and related financial fields, as Nansha is vigorously promoting innovation in climate investment and financing rules and mechanisms. At present, the world has come to realize the urgency of climate change. Last year, Egypt introduced relevant policies, initiated several energy reserve projects, and launched some green energy projects. Nansha has the potential to set an example for China and even the world. He also expected to see further cooperation between Egypt and Nansha in the future. "This is my second visit to China and my first visit to Nansha. In these days, I visited some enterprises, which was a real eye-opener for me. I was also deeply impressed by the beautiful environment in Nansha," he said. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/sub-forum-themed-guangzhou-nansha-joins-hands-with-the-world-successfully-held-302006940.html SOURCE Nansha District People's Government of Guangzhou City

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The Israeli army attacked Jenin and the nearby refugee camp on Tuesday, destroying public infrastructure and private property, injuring civilians, and arresting others over nine hours, according to Palestine news agency WAFA.

Israeli forces accompanied by 40 vehicles fired live ammunition, smoke grenades, and tear gas, eventually withdrawing after midnight, reported the Palestine News Agency (WAFA).

The attack injured seven people, including a child and a woman, who was later reported to be in critical condition, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health.

At least 18 more civilians were arrested.

The forces raided residents homes in the city and camp, destroying personal property and stationing troops in several of the homes.

The attack also caused fires to break out in several homes.

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) reported that the soldiers assaulted ambulance crews while they were attempting to transport the wounded from the camp.

Bulldozers also destroyed the infrastructure and vehicles on the outskirts of the camp and in its alleys and streets.

Students of the Arab American University were unable to return home due to the attack and were forced to take shelter in the school or nearby homes of friends and family.

The offensive also left several neighborhoods in Jenin without electricity after Israeli forces damaged electrical transformers.

Israel has attacked Jenin more than 15 times since the beginning of its war on Gaza on 7 October.

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[December 06, 2023] Critical Infrastructure Still at High Risk: Forescout Research Spotlights 21 New Vulnerabilities Tweet

Forescout, a global cybersecurity leader, today released "SIERRA:21 - Living on the Edge," an analysis of 21 newly discovered vulnerabilities within OT/IoT routers and open-source software components. The report - produced by Forescout Research - Vedere Labs, a leading global team dedicated to uncovering vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure - emphasizes the continued risk to critical infrastructure and sheds light on possible mitigations. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205915662/en/ Sierra:21 Infographic (Source: Forescout) "SIERRA:21 - Living on the Edge" features research into Sierra Wireless AirLink cellular routers and some of its open-source components, such as TinyXML and OpenNDS. Sierra Wireless routers are popular - an open database of Wi-Fi networks shows 245,000 networks worldwide running Sierra Wireless for a variety of applications. For example, Sierra Wireless routers are used for police vehicles connecting to a central network management system or to stream surveillance video, in manufacturing plants for industrial asset monitoring, in healthcare facilities providing temporary connectivity and to manage electric vehicle charging stations. The 21 new vulnerabilities have the potential to stop vital communications that could impact everyday life. Read the blog: Forescout Vedere Labs discloses 21 new vulnerabilities affecting OT/IoT routers



Forescout Research further finds: The attack surface is expansive with 86,000 vulnerable routers still exposed online. Less than 10% of these routers are confirmed to be patched against known previous vulnerabilities found since 2019.

Less than 10% of these routers are confirmed to be patched against known previous vulnerabilities found since 2019. Regions with the highest number of exposed devices includes: 68,605 devices in The United States 5,580 devices in Canada 3,853 devices in Australia 2,329 devices in France 1,001 devices in Thailand

Among the 21 vulnerabilities, one has critical severity (CVSS score 9.6), nine have high severity and 11 have medium severity. These vulnerabilities allow attackers to steal credentials, take control of a router by injecting malicious code, persist on the device and use it as an initial access point into critical networks.

These vulnerabilities allow attackers to steal credentials, take control of a router by injecting malicious code, persist on the device and use it as an initial access point into critical networks. Patching can't fix everything. 90 percent of devices exposing a specific management interface have reached end of life, meaning they cannot be further patched.

90 percent of devices exposing a specific management interface have reached end of life, meaning they cannot be further patched. It's an uphill battle to secure supply chain components. Open-source software elements continue to go unchecked and increase the attack surface of critical devices, leading to vulnerabilities that may be hard for organizations to track and mitigate. "We are raising the alarm today because there remain thousands of OT/IoT devices representing an increased attack surface that requires attention," advises Elisa Constante, VP of Research, Forescout Research - Vedere Labs. "Vulnerabilities impacting critical infrastructure are like an open window for bad actors in every community. State-sponsored actors are developing custom malware to use routers for persistence and espionage. Cybercriminals are also leveraging routers and related infrastructure for residential proxies and to recruit into botnets. Our discoveries reaffirm the need for heightened awareness of the OT/IoT edge devices that are so often neglected."

Sierra Wireless and OpenDNS have issued patches for the identified vulnerabilities. TinyXML is an abandoned open source project, so the upstream vulnerabilities will not be fixed and must be addressed downstream. For more information, download the full report, "SIERRA:21 - Living on the Edge," now at https://www.forescout.com/resources/sierra21-vulnerabilities. Additional Resources: View the on-demand webinar: https://www.brighttalk.com/central/account/616385/channel/13809/video/602171

Read more insight from Forescout Research: Hacktivists attack U.S. water treatment plant - analysis and implications About Forescout Forescout Technologies, Inc., a global cybersecurity leader, continuously identifies, protects and helps ensure the compliance of all managed and unmanaged connected cyber assets - IT, IoT, IoMT and OT. For more than 20 years, Fortune 100 organizations and government agencies have trusted Forescout to provide vendor-agnostic, automated cybersecurity at scale. The Forescout Platform delivers comprehensive capabilities for network security, risk and exposure management, and extended detection and response. With seamless context sharing and workflow orchestration via ecosystem partners, it enables customers to more effectively manage cyber risk and mitigate threats. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205915662/en/

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[December 06, 2023] China Institute and CGTN Collaborate for Keynote Speech at the 2023 Understanding China Conference Tweet

GUANGZHOU, China, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- China Institute for Innovation & Development Strategy ("CIIDS"), in collaboration with CGTN, is set to host the Understanding China Keynote Speech at the 2023 Understanding China Conference, which took place in Guangzhou from December 1 to 3. The Understanding China Keynote Speech/b> event is an opportunity for speakers from various backgrounds to discuss themes such as mutual learning between civilizations, technological innovation, cultural exchanges, and green development. They also share their personal experiences of China's modernization, providing a multi-field and three-dimensional perspective.



Yves Leterme, former Belgian Prime Minister , emphasized the significance of strong China-EU relations for the world's future advancement, supporting an open and inclusive attitude with a continuous deepening of exchanges and a boost in mutual understanding.

, emphasized the significance of strong China-EU relations for the world's future advancement, supporting an open and inclusive attitude with a continuous deepening of exchanges and a boost in mutual understanding. Moon Chung -in, chairman of Sejong Institute in South Korea , noted a divide in South Korean attitudes towards China's rise. He advises China to foster relationships and enhance its global interactions to show the world its true nature.

, noted a divide in South Korean attitudes towards rise. He advises to foster relationships and enhance its global interactions to show the world its true nature. Martin Jacques , senior fellow at the Department of Politics and International Studies at the University of Cambridge , assessed China's progression over the past 70 years, convincingly explained why the future " China " will still be China .

, assessed progression over the past 70 years, convincingly explained why the future " " will still be . Vikram Channa , vice president of Content at Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific , shared his insights from over two decades of filming documentaries in China .

, shared his insights from over two decades of filming documentaries in . Drawing from his own experiences in Alibaba Cloud R&D, Wang Jian , academician at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, expressed his aspiration to utilize technology to bring young people together and shape a brighter future. The Conference also ran a unique forum, Stories as Bridges: Teenagers and Understanding China, concurrently. Distinguished experts and scholars from China, the UK, the US, and Belarus, as well as international students in China, convened to discuss how teenagers can communicate effectively. Hu Min, the forum's convener and the director of the China Story Research Institute of CIIDS, also the founder and CEO of New Channel International Education Group, introduced a three-pronged strategy for "understanding China" at the forum. This strategy aims to enhance the understanding of China among its citizens, particularly the youth, to provide the world with an authentic view of China, and to encourage global sharing of knowledge and understanding about China.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/china-institute-and-cgtn-collaborate-for-keynote-speech-at-the-2023-understanding-china-conference-302007179.html SOURCE China Institute for Innovation & Development Strategy

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[December 06, 2023] Inaugural Asia FII PRIORITY Summit Powered By FII Institute To Take Place In Hong Kong On 7 & 8 December Tweet

FII PRIORITY Hong Kong Summit, held in partnership with the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) and HKEX, will convene business and finance leaders from around the world RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Dec. 6, 2023 /CNW/ -- HE Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute, will introduce the inaugural Asia FII PRIORITY Summit in Hong Kong next week. Welcoming the FII Institute to Hong Kong will be John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Paul Chan, Financial Secretary; Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury; and Laura Cha, Chairman of HKEX. John Lee will deliver a special address to delegates. The FII Institute is a global data-driven non-profit foundation with an investment arm and one agenda: to make a positive 'impact on humanity'. The institute's PRIORITY programme spans summits, initiatives and reports supported by its members and strategic partners, with the aim of tackling the world's most pressing challenges. HE Yasir Al-Rumayyan will be joined by HRH Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud, Saudi Arabia's ambassador to the United States, and HE Khalid A. Al-Falih, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Investment. Kicking off the two-day global summit will be a 'Board of Changemakers', the set piece of the event at HKEX Connect Hall starting on December 7th. HKEX Chairman Laura Cha, Hang Lung Capital's founder Ronnie Chan, Chairman of Schneider Electric Jean-Pascale Tricoire, Founder an Chairman of ACWA Power Mohammad A Abunayyan, President of the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Tony Chan, Richard Li Chairman of Pacific Century Group, and Kevin Sneader, President, Asia Pacific, Goldman Sachs will discuss global economic and strategic issues during the board's 45-minute session.



Other speakers at the summit will include Hopu Capital's chairman Fang Fenglei, GGV Capital Asia Managing Partner Jixun Foo, and co-chairman and co-chief investment officer of Hong Kong-listed Value Partners Group Cheah Cheng Hye, Lawrence Moloney, Lead AI Advocate, Google, Patrick Motseppe, Executive Chairman, Africa Rainbow Minerals, and Joshua Fink, founder Luma Group. Over 1,000 business and finance leaders are expected to attend the summit.

Richard Attias, chief executive of the FII Institute: "Hong Kong has a hugely important role as a global business hub and a place for investors to connect. With our partners, the Hong Kong Government Special Administrative Region and HKEX, we are honoured to bring our inaugural Asia summit and movement to this great city. Our purpose at FII Institute is to tackle some of humanity's biggest challenges, such as economic growth, prosperity, and financing the energy transition by convening leaders for top-level constructive dialogue. Our deliberations over the 7th and 8th of December will be focused sharply on important global issues, and we look forward to working with our friends and colleagues from across Asia for a better future for all." The summit will continue conversations at FII7 in Riyadh this past October under the theme 'The New Compass', seeking workable solutions to unlocking ESG flows to the Global South, driving global alignment on AI regulation, and investment for more equitable access to education and healthcare. Other topics to be discussed at the FII PRIORITY Summit in Hong Kong include how innovators can act to resolve citizen concerns at a global level, the role of the Global South in driving economic growth, the new Asia, the 'hyper-tech century', AI and Web4 improving life for all, where next for BRICS, human-centred macro-finance, Asia supply chains, COP28 and climate tech. About FII Institute The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is a global non-profit 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/2294189/FII.jpg

Logo : https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1811613/FII_Institute_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/inaugural-asia-fii-priority-summit-powered-by-fii-institute-to-take-place-in-hong-kong-on-7--8-december-302007323.html SOURCE Future Investment Initiative Institute

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[December 06, 2023] Monument Group Launches MG Connect Investor Portal Tweet

Monument Group, a leading independent global capital advisory firm, today announced the launch of MG Connect, a proprietary, interactive, password-protected portal for institutional investors, designed to streamline real-time access to Monument Group's current offerings. By logging into the portal, and subject to applicable regulatory requirements, investors may access information on Monument Group's current offerings, including fund summaries, general partner videos, data rooms, pitch decks, performance data and more. Through the portal, investors may ask questions, request additional information or schedule a meeting with Monument Group's clients. In addition, MG Connect offers many advantages to Monument Group clients, including increasing the efficiency of the capital raising process, gaining global market awareness, facilitating outreach to a broad base of pre-qualified institutional investors, streamlining distribution of client materials, navigating complex regulatory regimes and tracking engagement in real-time through platform notifications. MG Connect is a major step forward in the capital raising process for private market primary and secondary investments. "MG Connect provides LPs with convenient and comprehensive access to our investment offerings while improving productivity and efficiency," said Monument Group Partner, Meredith Gendron. "MG Connect will further enhance ur marketing of a full range of alternative investment strategies, including private equity, real estate, credit, infrastructure, natural resources and secondaries. We are very pleased to launch MG Connect and are confident this state-of-the-art functionality will prove highly beneficial for Monument Group, our clients and our limited partner relationships."



Investors can access the MG Connect Investor Portal at monumentgroup.atominvest.co/. About Monument Group

Monument Group is a global independent full-service capital advisory and fundraising partner in alternative investments managed by a senior team with a significant buy-side investment heritage. Since 1994, Monument Group has assisted its clients in raising $131 billion across 205 funds and transactions. Across offices in Boston, London, Amsterdam, Hong Kong and Tokyo, the firm advises and assists on capital formation and liquidity solutions, including primary fundraising, secondaries, capital solutions and advisory services for both general and limited partners globally. For more information on Monument Group's capabilities, visit www.monumentgroup.com.

Monument Group, Inc., is an SEC registered broker-dealer and a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC); Monument Group Europe LLP is authorized and regulated by the U.K. Financial Conduct Authority; Monument Group Netherlands B.V. is licensed by the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets. Monument Group, L.P. is licensed as a Type II Financial Instruments Dealer by the Japan Financial Services Agency (FSA) and Monument Group (HK) Limited is licensed to conduct Type 1 regulated activities in Hong Kong by the Securities and Futures Commission. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206628916/en/

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[December 06, 2023] Ability Biologics Unveils Discovery Platform that Generates Antibodies with Unparalleled Specificity and Selectivity Tweet

Ability Biologics ("Ability" or "the company") announced the closing of its $12 million (US) financing round led by founding investor Amplitude Ventures. Amplitude is joined by Fonds de solidarite FTQ, Charles River Laboratories, Alexandria Venture Investments and Page One Ventures. Ability Biologics will use its AbiLeap discovery engine to systematically generate logic-enabled antibodies with the potential to become best-in-class or first-in-class therapeutics. Ability's goal is to become the world's premier biotherapeutic targeting company by discovering and developing potent, selective antibody therapeutics. Ability was launched by Amplitude Ventures, working with co-founders Giles Day, CEO, and Jean-Philippe Burckert, Vice President of Technology, to build a management team with deep experience in immunology, antibody discovery and engineering as well as drug development from the bench to commercial stage. Their vision is to create the next generation of antibodies using powerful computational tools through its unique, proprietary AI platform. The AbiLeap discovery engine combines an Artificial Intelligence (AI) platform with one of the largest databases of antibody-antigen interactions ever constructed, bringing together more than five years of discovery data, incorporating both public and private data sources. This allows Ability o address a longstanding challenge by generating fully human antibodies that are logic-gated, enabling them to target specific tissues and cells based on the local microenvironment dictated by conditions such as pH, temperature, or the presence of certain metabolites.



"Ability provides the high specificity and tunable affinity targeting necessary to develop potent therapeutics with broad therapeutic windows in areas of high unmet medical need," said Giles Day, Co-founder and CEO of Ability. "Our antibodies employ tried and tested IgG formats that enable easier manufacturing, storage and administration, avoiding the complex and lengthy procedures that can extend the time frame for drug development." Ability plans to use the funding raised to bring several internal drug candidates through the preclinical proof-of-concept stage. The company will also partner with leading companies to co-develop additional drug candidates. "There is a lot of activity in the antibody generation space, but we are focused on solving the next set of complex biology challenges," said Dion Madsen, CFA, Co-founder and Partner at Amplitude Ventures. "Ability's proprietary platform stands out as it provides an unrivalled way of creating uniquely differentiated, potent, ultra-targeted biotherapeutics with markedly increased specificity and selectivity."

Ability has already established a partnership with Charles River Laboratories, a highly respected, global provider of drug discovery and non-clinical development solutions. Ability is establishing its laboratories in Montreal, which is emerging as a fast-paced R&D hub in key areas such as biologics, antibodies, and AI. "Ability is at the intersection of two renowned sectors in Quebec, drug development and AI," said Genevieve Guertin, Vice-President of Private Equity and Impact Investing/Life Sciences at the Fonds de solidarite FTQ. "The Fonds is proud to a be a part of this adventure with this company choosing to establish roots in Quebec, and with a management team poised for success. Our participation in this transaction adds to our historical investments of nearly C$2 billion in the life science sector." About Ability Biologics Ability Biologics is the premier cell targeting company. Its powerful AbiLeap discovery engine combines massively parallel, continuously learning AI with an extensive database of antigen-antibody interactions to generate fully human, IgG-based multispecific antibodies of exquisite selectivity and affinity. The antibodies respond to environmental signals within the cellular microenvironment, generating logic-gated therapeutics. Ability is dedicated to developing the most potent and selective antibody therapeutics for areas of great unmet need. To learn more, visit ability.bio or contact us at [email protected]. About Amplitude Ventures Amplitude is a full-stack venture capital firm using a unique growth model to build companies with world-class management teams and scale companies to breakout potential. With over $500 million under management and offices in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver, Amplitude applies a proven, evidence-based approach to investing in leading precision medicine companies. Learn more about Amplitude and its Pre-Amp venture studio at amplitudevc.com. About the Fonds de solidarite FTQ The Fonds de solidarite FTQ is a source of pride in Quebec, fulfilling its mission through a unique business model created 40 years ago. Since then, the Fonds has rallied Quebec into action thanks to the retirement savings of 765,721 shareholders. With net assets of $18.4 billion as of May 31, 2023, the Fonds supports more than 3,700 companies through venture and development capital investments based on the belief that impact is created as much by financial as social returns. For more information, visit fondsftq.com or our company page on LinkedIn. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206198698/en/

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[December 06, 2023] Kraig Biocraft Laboratories Prepares for Silk Production Season Tweet

ANN ARBOR, Mich., Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, Inc. (OTCQB: KBLB) ("Company" or "Kraig Labs"), the biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of spider silk, today announced that its senior management team is en route to Vietnam to prepare for the spring rearing season. They will meet with the team from its wholly owned Vietnamese subsidiary, Prodigy Textiles, third party contractors, and government officials, including provincial leadership.

This trip will lay the ground work for the upcoming spring rearing season, strengthening its team, and preparing its facilities. The Company is leveraging the winter offseason to align its staff and contractors to ensure ideal conditions for the launch of the 2024 season. Senior management will also meet with hatcheries and spinners to look for opportunities to expand the Companys integration into the supply chain and to vet additional production locations and partners, for 2024 and beyond. Kraig Labs U.S. team just concluded a very productive month of onsite work with its senior sericulture consultant for India. Following up on that work, management plans to implement advanced rearing protocol across all of its operations domestically and overseas. Te Company also plans to bring these consultants to Vietnam in the spring of 2024 to work directly with its production team as the Company builds out its capabilities.



To view the most recent news from Kraig Labs and/or to sign up for Company alerts, please go to www.KraigLabs.com/news About Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, Inc.

Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, Inc. ( www.KraigLabs.com ), a reporting biotechnology company, is the leading developer of genetically engineered spider silk-based fiber technologies. The Company has achieved a series of scientific breakthroughs in the area of spider silk technology with implications for the global textile industry. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information Statements in this press release about the Company's future and expectations other than historical facts are "forward-looking statements." These statements are made on the basis of management's current views and assumptions. As a result, there can be no assurance that management's expectations will necessarily come to pass. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by phrases such as "believes," "plans," "expects," "anticipates," "foresees," "estimated," "hopes," "if," "develops," "researching," "research," "pilot," "potential," "could" or other words or phrases of similar import. Forward-looking statements include descriptions of the Company's business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions and goals. All such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Ben Hansel, Hansel Capital, LLC

(720) 288-8495

[email protected]



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[December 06, 2023] Salt Security Selected to Secure Critical Online Data of Leading Provider of Property, Automotive and Asset Information in South Africa Tweet

Lightstone selects the Salt Security API Protection Platform to secure its rapidly expanding API platform PALO ALTO, Calif., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Salt Security , the leading API security company, recently announced that Lightstone, a trusted provider of property, automotive and asset data and insights services in South Africa, has chosen the Salt Security API Protection Platform to secure its rapidly expanding APIs ecosystem, which delivers all of the company's critical online data services to customers. Salt provides Lightstone the ability to defend its growing API attack surface with a purpose-built and AI-driven API security solution for API discovery, posture management, and threat protection in runtime. Employing a hybrid infrastructure, Lightstone has API endpoints distributed across both Microsoft Azure and AWS Cloud, as well as on-premises, spanning multiple data centers in South Africa. Using the Salt API security platform, Lightstone can: Continuously discover all APIs in its ecosystem, including zombie and shadow APIs, for a complete API inventory

Understand the information being carried across all APIs, to prevent accidental exposure of sensitive data

Easily apply API governance programs within their organization

Prevent data exfiltration and account fraud , protecting its customers' PII data

, protecting its customers' PII data Capture insights learned in runtime to help dvelopers harden the company's APIs



and data insights represent the core of our business, security is paramount to us. With our increasing usage of APIs, we knew we needed to adopt a robust and purpose-built solution to protect our and our customers' critical data." said George Palmer , Group Technology Officer at Lightstone. "Salt gave us the deepest insights into our API infrastructure. Salt enables us to continuously discover all the APIs in our environment, quickly spot unauthenticated APIs, and understand the purpose of each API. It solves very real data governance challenges that help us to improve the understanding of our data flows. In our ever changing environment, Salt provides a very powerful mechanism to manage this risk without introducing bureaucracy into our processes." "APIs power the online applications and services businesses that consumers rely on every day. Yet, because organizations are rolling APIs out so quickly, they often don't know or understand the purpose of all the APIs in their environment," said Roey Eliyahu, CEO and co-founder at Salt. "With our AI-driven API security platform, Lightstone can strengthen its API security posture and ensure proper API runtime protection to uncover potential threats, so it can safely and securely deliver its business research data to clients."

Due to the sensitive and personal data they transport, APIs present a lucrative target for today's cyber criminals. However, because each API has its own business logic, every API attack differs  making the ability to detect behavioral anomalies over time essential to protect APIs. By leveraging AI and ML modeling, the Salt API security platform allows companies to baseline typical API behavior to detect even the most subtle anomalies and defend against API attacks. About Lightstone:

Lightstone is a leading provider of comprehensive data, expert insights, valuations, market intelligence and a choice of solutions on property, automotive and business assets. Through unique and proprietary data sets, Lightstone innovates to build sophisticated analytics and spatial models that simplify business processes and deploys various technologies to the industries that it serves. Our analytical, business and industry expertise are paired with our technical excellence to guide clients in managing risk and making business critical decisions. For more information, please visit: www.lightstone.co.za. About Salt Security

Salt Security protects the APIs that form the core of every modern application. Its patented API Protection Platform is the only API security solution that combines the power of cloud-scale big data and time-tested ML/AI to detect and prevent API attacks. By correlating activities across millions of APIs and users over time, Salt delivers deep context with real-time analysis and continuous insights for API discovery, attack prevention, and hardening APIs. Deployed quickly and seamlessly integrated within existing systems, the Salt platform gives customers immediate value and protection, so they can innovate with confidence and accelerate their digital transformation initiatives. For more information, visit: https://salt.security/ Media Contact

Sena McGrand

Lumina Communications for Salt Security

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/salt-security-selected-to-secure-critical-online-data-of-leading-provider-of-property-automotive-and-asset-information-in-south-africa-302007133.html SOURCE Salt Security

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[December 06, 2023] CisLunar Industries Secures Lunar Foothold with DARPA LunA-10 Award for Lunar Infrastructure Integration Tweet

DENVER, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CisLunar Industries has been awarded a contract with DARPA (The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) for the LunA-10 (The 10-Year Lunar Architecture) capability study to advance critical technology efforts in lunar infrastructure development. CisLunar Industries will facilitate the development of the METAL framework (Material Extraction, Treatment, Assembly & Logistics), in collaboration with 13 other visionary companies. The LunA-10 program aims to study the rapid development of non-terrestrial technology concepts designed to move away from individual scientific efforts within isolated, self-sufficient systems and toward a series of shareable, scalable, resource-driven systems that can operate jointly, creating monetizable services for future lunar stakeholders. DARPA supports a future model where the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), international governments, and commercial industry can rapidly scale up lunar exploration and commerce, enabled and supported by the deployment of an efficiently combined, integrated lunar infrastructure framework. An integrated framework would upend the current technical paradigm, whereby each lunar lander or activity must organically support all required resources such as survival power, communications, and data storage. CisLunar Industries, led by Principal Investigator Elijah Richter, is partnering with industry experts to bring knowledge in terrestrial mining, extraction, equipment autonomy, sustainability, and digital transformation. Our partners are Laeeque Daneshmend of ReliAvail Technologies Inc., Aiden O'Leary of Omnetix, Salar Javid of Javid & Company Inc., and Andrew Petruska, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, and his department at the Colorado School of Mines. "DARPA finally did what the industry was waiting for," said Gary Calnan, CEO of CisLunar Industries. "The LunA-10 team has done a great job bringing together 14 companies representing complementary parts of the future lunar economy. This effort will lay the foundation for a marketplace where the entire space domain can participate."



About CisLunar Industries USA Inc.

CisLunar Industries is a pioneer in the Space Industrial Revolution, addressing immediate challenges for industry and government entities by developing key space infrastructure. Their focus includes mitigating space debris, improving space mobility, securing space-based resources for future missions, and creating scalable power systems. With expertise in materials processing and power electronics for the space industry, the company is at the forefront of advancing the industrialization of space, paving the way for a sustainable and abundant future. For more information: www.cislunarindustries.com.

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About Aiden O'Leary

Aiden O'Leary is a multidisciplinary consultant, aerospace engineer, and entrepreneur working to create sustainable infrastructure in-space and on-Earth through his company Omnetix, leveraging his expertise and thought leadership in space resource utilization, refueling, debris remediation, data science, architecture optimization, and sustainability frameworks. About Laeeque Daneshmend

Laeeque Daneshmend is a consultant, academic, and entrepreneur with a passion for space robotics that dates back to the 1990's, including research contracts with JPL/NASA, SPAR Aerospace (now MD-Robotics), as well as the Canadian Space Agency. Laeeque has deep expertise in intelligent mining systems, spanning mining equipment design, reliability engineering, systems modeling, and systems integration. About Salar Javid

Salar Javid is an executive in mining and management consulting who is at the forefront of mining innovation. expertise is particularly noted in implementing and supporting technology, autonomy, communication, and real-time systems, as well as remote operating centers within mining operations across every continent. He co-founded Outliers Mining Solutions, a global leader in mining consulting. About Colorado School of Mines

Colorado School of Mines is a public research university focused on science and engineering, where students and faculty together address the great challenges society faces today - particularly those related to the Earth, energy and the environment. Contact:

Ubaldo Ciminieri

[email protected]

13037259417 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cislunar-industries-secures-lunar-foothold-with-darpa-luna-10-award-for-lunar-infrastructure-integration-302007068.html SOURCE CisLunar Industries

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[December 06, 2023] Pioneer Consulting Welcomes Nathan Javier as Director of Client Solutions Tweet

HOBOKEN, N.J., Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pioneer Consulting , the full-service submarine fiber optic telecommunications consulting and project management company, announces it has expanded its Core Team by hiring a rising industry leader in subsea telecommunications, Jonathan Nathan Javier, as Director of Client Solutions. As a new Core Team member, Javier will be pivotal in expanding Pioneers global footprint and addressing the needs of Pioneers growing customer base.

As the companys first employee based in Asia and with over ten years of experience, Nathan is uniquely qualified to support Pioneers plans for the region. Most recently, he spent four years helping build out the Asian submarine cable portfolio for Meta, working on key projects such as SJC2 and BtoBE/CAP-1. Prior to Meta, he served at Globe Telecom in various engineering roles. The cable industry in Asia is expanding rapidly, and we are pleased to welcome regional industry expert Nathan Javier to the team. With boots on the ground in the Philippines, Pioneer is even better positioned to engage with current and future customers in the region, said Gavin Tully, Managing Partner at Pioneer Consulting. Nathan brings an impressive portfolio of experience and a fresh perspective to our organization, and the subseatelecom industry stands to benefit from adding young talent.



I am delighted to join the company to support the growth and development of critical infrastructure for subsea telecommunication systems, said Nathan. I look forward to helping continue the incredible work that the Pioneer team has already done and is positioned to accomplish over the coming months. Nathan will work from his office in the Philippines, where he will build and strengthen regional and global partnerships through business development and relationship management.

About Pioneer Consulting

Drawing on decades of experience, Pioneer Consulting empowers clients to take their vision for a submarine fiber optic telecommunications system and make it a reality. The company provides expert counsel to guide clients through the full process of subsea cable installation, while also providing valuable technical and commercial insight into the submarine telecom industry. From comprehensive project management to system design to shipboard representation, Pioneer has the expertise and resources to support clients through each stage of their venture. Pioneer has completed 160+ projects, spanning every ocean across six continents. To learn more about how Pioneer Consulting is driving global subsea connectivity visit, www.pioneerconsulting.com or follow the company at @PioneerConsults. Media Contact

Shannon Murphy

Trevi Communications for Pioneer Consulting

[email protected] A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2897bb89-ba4f-40ed-9ce1-a7e95afcd151



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[December 06, 2023] Verizon launches partnership with the Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky African American Chamber of Commerce to advance digital equity in Ohio through the Verizon Forward Community Enhancement Award Tweet

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Verizon announces a $100,000 award to the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky African American Chamber of Commerce (AACC) for Digital Horizons: Bridging Ohio Communities throughout the state of Ohio. The partnership is part of the Verizon Forward Community Enhancement Award, a $1 million national initiative equipping communities with the tools to navigate an increasingly technological world.

As a leader advocating on behalf of emerging and established businesses, the AACC helps to create new market opportunities, provides access to capital, and revitalizes African American communities. The AACC will provide exposure, access, and training on technologies to under-resourced communities in six cities, including Akron, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo. Through in-person and virtual workshops, the program will provide participants with the digital skills and knowledge needed to improve communities access to education, employment, and government services. The Community Enhancemet Award reflects Verizons commitment to advancing digital literacy and inclusion in the communities we serve, said Tony Lewis, Vice President of Public Policy for Verizon. We are committed to listening to and meeting communities where they are by partnering with innovative organizations, such as the African American Chamber of Commerce, to ensure communities have the digital skills and tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.



"Verizon is thrilled to collaborate with the African American Chamber of Commerce as they champion the economic development of Ohios minority-owned business community, said Andy Brady, Verizon Great Lakes Market President, Every day, we recognize the vital role of small and minority-owned businesses in our regional economy, and we're committed to providing the resources and support they need to thrive and grow." This effort is part of Citizen Verizon, Verizons responsible business plan for economic, environmental and social advancement, and will build on the companys goals of preparing 500,000 individuals for jobs of the future, providing 10 million young people with digital skills and supporting 1 million small businesses with resources to succeed in the digital economy. To learn more about Verizons Digital Inclusion efforts, visit CitizenVerizon.com.

Media contact:

Andy Choi

312 502 2002

[email protected]



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Israeli forces were encircling southern Gaza's main city on Wednesday, battling Hamas fighters through streets and buildings in some of the most intense combat of the two-month war.

The focus of the conflict has shifted into the besieged territory's south following fierce fighting and bombardment that reduced much of the north to rubble and forced nearly two million people to flee their homes.

Israeli tanks, armoured personnel carriers and bulldozers were seen on Tuesday near southern Gaza's city of Khan Yunis, forcing already displaced civilians to pack up and flee again, witnesses told AFP.

"Our forces are now encircling the Khan Yunis area in the southern Gaza Strip," Israel's army chief Herzi Halevi said late Tuesday.

"We have secured many Hamas strongholds in the northern Gaza Strip, and now we are operating against its strongholds in the south."

The fighting on Tuesday was "the most intense day since the beginning of the ground operation" in late October, the army's Southern Command chief Major General Yaron Finkelman said.

The latest toll from the Palestinian media office said 16,248 people in Gaza, most of them women and children, had been killed.

Several Hamas commanders were killed in an air strike near the Indonesia Hospital, the Israeli military said early Wednesday on X.

Sources in Hamas and Islamic Jihad, another Palestinian militant group, told AFP their fighters were battling Israeli troops early Wednesday in a bid to prevent them from breaking into Khan Yunis and surrounding areas.

According to the Hamas-run government media office, dozens of people were killed and injured in heavy strikes on areas east of Khan Yunis.

Meanwhile, areas in the central and northern Gaza Strip were still coming under bombardment, according to Hamas.

The Palestinian health ministry said air strikes on the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza killed six people and injured 14 others.

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[December 06, 2023] Reliable Robotics Flies Large Cargo Aircraft with No One On Board Tweet

Reliable Robotics, a leader in aircraft automation systems, today announced a significant milestone in its work to bring advanced safety-enhancing technologies to market in the United States. Last month's successful flight of a Cessna 208B Caravan with no one on board was a first for aviation. A remote pilot supervised the uncrewed aircraft from Reliable's control center 50 miles away. For a 360 experience inside the cockpit, view and scroll around at: https://youtu.be/0W5JHIHq40Q This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206413888/en/ Reliable Robotics demonstrates uncrewed flight of a large cargo aircraft in November 2023 (Photo: Business Wire) The Reliable autonomous flight system enables the aircraft to be remotely operated by a pilot on the ground and improves safety by fully automating the aircraft through all phases of operation including taxi, takeoff and landing. Reliable's system is aircraft agnostic and utilizes multiple layers of redundancy and advanced navigation technology to achieve the levels of integrity and reliability necessary for uncrewed flight. The system will prevent controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) and loss of control in flight (LOC-I), which account for the majority of fatal aviation accidents. The Cessna Caravan is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc. Reliable Robotics has been collaborating with Textron Aviation, which includes the Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker brands, and Textron eAviation focused on sustainable flying. Textron Aviation has delivered more than 3,000 Caravans, proving it to be the world's most popular turboprop utility aircraft. "Textron Aviation is committed to delivering continuous aviation improvements and our relationship with Reliable Robotics advances this work," said Chris Hearne, Senior Vice President of Engineering and Programs, Textron Aviation. "Reliable's successful flight of an uncrewed Cessna 208 Caravan represents a milestone for the industry in bringing new technology to aviation." The Caravan, and other regional cargo aircraft like it, serve an essential role connecting communities and businesses across the United States and around the globe. With a useful load of over 3,000 pounds, and a take-off performance to operate from shorter runways, these aircraft deliver time-sensitive shipments to many places that would otherwise not have next-day or same-day service. Remote piloting will allow even more areas to benefit from this critical service. ASL Aviation Holdings is a global aviation services company with airlines based in Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia, and has been working with Reliable Robotics since 2022 to explore bringing advanced aircraft automation into its operations. ASL operates a fleet of over 160 aircraft and provides cargo services for the world's leading express parcel integrators and eCommerce platforms. Reliable Robotics is an original member of ASL's CargoVision forum of companies involved in pioneering new aviation and propulsion technologies. "ASL is always innovating to better serve customers, and our partnership with Reliable Robotics is aimed at enabling us to provide reliable, flexible and cost-efficient time-sensitive cargo delivery to smaller unserved areas," said Dave Andrew, Chief Executive of ASL Aviation Holdings. "This historic flight is a testament to Reliable's focused leadersip in advancing aviation innovation and capability for the industry."



Reliable Robotics and the U.S. Air Force are working to leverage the significant progress on remote piloting for the Cessna Caravan to jointly examine how this commercially derived technology can be applied to large multi-engine aircraft for cargo logistics, aerial refueling and other missions. Reliable has been working under a series of contracts with the Air Force since 2021. "This monumental aviation achievement is a great example of how AFWERX accelerates agile and affordable capability transitions for the world's greatest Air Force," said Col. Elliott Leigh, AFWERX Director and Chief Commercialization Officer for the Department of the Air Force. "This milestone accelerates dual-use uncrewed flight opportunities, increasing aviation safety and enabling us to bring a broad range of autonomous military capabilities into denied environments."

The FAA formally accepted the certification plan for Reliable's autonomous flight system in June of 2023. The certification plan leverages existing regulations for normal and transport category aircraft, and does not require any special conditions or exemptions. With multiple industry-first technical accomplishments and unrivaled FAA certification progress, Reliable Robotics is well positioned to deliver safety-enhancing aircraft automation systems. About Textron Aviation We inspire the journey of flight. For more than 95 years, Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company, has empowered our collective talent across the Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker brands to design and deliver the best aviation experience for our customers. With a range that includes everything from business jets, turboprops, and high-performance pistons, to special mission, military trainer and defense products, Textron Aviation has the most versatile and comprehensive aviation product portfolio in the world and a workforce that has produced more than half of all general aviation aircraft worldwide. Customers in more than 170 countries rely on our legendary performance, reliability and versatility, along with our trusted global customer service network, for affordable and flexible flight. For more information, visit www.txtav.com | www.defense.txtav.com | www.scorpionjet.com About Textron Inc. Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Pipistrel, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Arctic Cat, Textron Systems, and TRU Simulation + Training. For more information, visit: www.textron.com About ASL Aviation Holdings ASL Aviation Holdings, a global aviation services company with eight airlines based in Europe, South Africa, Asia and Australia, is a world leader in ACMI airline operations and both scheduled and charter cargo and passenger services. Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, ASL's airlines include ASL Airlines Ireland, ASL Airlines Belgium, ASL Airlines France and ASL Airlines United Kingdom in Europe. Since April 2023 the group also includes ASL Airlines Australia, formerly known as Pionair. ASL also has an associate low-cost passenger airline, FlySafair, in South Africa and joint venture cargo airlines K-Mile Asia in Thailand and Quikjet Airlines in India. ASL Aviation Holdings airlines operate cargo services for the world's leading express parcel integrators and eCommerce retailers. Group airlines also operate scheduled and charter cargo and services under its own airline brands on domestic, international, and intercontinental routes in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, North America and Africa. ASL has a global team of 3,000 people of 51 nationalities. The Group has a fleet of 160 aircraft that includes 9 aircraft types ranging from the turbo-prop ATR 72 to the Boeing 747. About AFRL The Air Force Research Laboratory is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace force. With a workforce of more than 12,500 across nine technology areas and 40 other operations across the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit www.afresearchlab.com About AFWERX As the innovation arm of the DAF and a directorate within the Air Force Research Laboratory, AFWERX brings cutting-edge American ingenuity from small businesses and start-ups to address the most pressing challenges of the DAF. AFWERX employs approximately 325 military, civilian and contractor personnel at six hubs and sites executing an annual $1.4 billion budget. Since 2019, AFWERX has executed 4,697 contracts worth more than $2.6 billion to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base and drive faster technology transition to operational capability. For more information, visit: www.afwerx.com About Reliable Robotics Reliable Robotics launched in 2017 to bring safe, certified automation systems to commercial aviation. The company's system enables remote operation of any aircraft type. Reliable's vision is to transform the way we move goods and people around the planet with safer, more convenient and more affordable air transportation. The company is headquartered in Mountain View, CA and has a distributed global workforce. Learn more and see job openings at https://reliable.co Connect on LinkedIn | YouTube | Twitter Reliable Robotics Corporation and its respective logos are trademarks, registered trademarks, or service marks of the company. Other products and company names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206413888/en/

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[December 06, 2023] Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated Launches Ruby Reinsurance Company Tweet

Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated (NYSE: RGA), a leading global life and health reinsurer, announced today the launch of Ruby Reinsurance Company (Ruby Re), a Missouri-domiciled third-party life reinsurance company targeting U.S. asset-intensive business. Ruby Re has closed its first round of funding and secured equity capital commitments from lead investors Golub Capital, Hudson Structured Capital Management Ltd. (doing its re/insurance business as HSCM Bermuda), and Sammons Financial Group. Ruby Re will reinsure business from RGA and will not face clients directly. Initially, RGA will retrocede a block of $2.5 billion of existing liabilities to Ruby Re, and Ruby Re will automatically receive a quota share from RGA of all future qualifying business (subject to certain conditions, such as meeting underwriting standards and regulatory approvals). "As a pioneer in the asset-intensive business, I am excited about the next step in our continuing support for this growing market segment," said Tony Cheng, President, RGA. "Ruby Re provides RGA with alternative capital that expands our capacity at attractive terms benefiting our clients, shareholders, and Ruby investors." "This is Golub Capital's inaugural insurance capital sidecar transaction and is a culmination of a shared investment approach and valuable partnership with RGA since 2010," said Gregory Robbins, Vice Chair of Golub Capital. "We are delighted to be able to leverage our financing capabilities to support RGA's continued growth." "We are excited to be partnering with RGA. The combined capabilities of Ruby Re, along with RGA's outstanding reputation and underwriting, will allow us to quickly establish a dynamic new platform in the fast-growing asset-intensive market," said Gokul Sudarsana, Managing Director and Chief Actuary, HSCM Bermuda. "For decades, we have recognized RGA as one of our trusted partners and are excited to be a lead investor in Ruby Re," said Esfand Dinshaw, Sammons Financial Group Chief Executive Officer. "We are proud to continue to build upon our strong relationship in support of our long-term growth strategy." Jefferies acted as financial advisor and Oliver Wyman provided actuarial support. Latham & Watkins acted as legal advisors to RGA and Sidley Austin were legal advisors to the lead investors. Additional terms are not being disclosed at this tme.



About RGA Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated (NYSE: RGA) is a global industry leader specializing in life and health reinsurance and financial solutions that help clients effectively manage risk and optimize capital. Founded in 1973, RGA is today one of the world's largest and most respected reinsurers and remains guided by a powerful purpose: to make financial protection accessible to all. As a global capabilities and solutions leader, RGA empowers partners through bold innovation, relentless execution, and dedicated client focus - all directed toward creating sustainable long-term value. RGA has approximately $3.5 trillion of life reinsurance in force and assets of $87.4 billion as of September 30, 2023. To learn more about RGA and its businesses, please visit rgare.com or follow RGA on LinkedIn and Facebook. Investors can learn more at investor.rgare.com.

About Golub Capital Golub Capital is a market-leading, award-winning direct lender and experienced credit asset manager. We specialize in delivering reliable, creative and compelling financing solutions to companies backed by private equity sponsors. Our sponsor finance expertise also forms the foundation of our Broadly Syndicated Loan and Credit Opportunities investment programs. We nurture long-term, win-win partnerships that inspire repeat business from private equity sponsors and investors. As of October 1, 2023, Golub Capital had over 850 employees and over $60 billion of capital under management, a gross measure of invested capital including leverage. The firm has lending offices in New York, Chicago, Miami, San Francisco and London. For more information, please visit golubcapital.com. About HSCM Hudson Structured Capital Management Ltd. is an asset manager focused on alternative investments seeking mezzanine level returns. HSCM invests across the Re/Insurance and Transportation sectors. The Firm launched in 2016 and focuses on core economic sectors that are likely to outgrow global GDP, offer low correlations with broader markets, and are experiencing a shift from balance sheet and to market financing. For more information, please visit www.hscm.com. About Sammons Financial Group The companies of Sammons Financial Group, Inc. help families and businesses by empowering futures and changing lives. Sammons Financial Group is privately owned with member companies that are among the most enduring and stable in the financial services industry. Our companies include Midland National Life Insurance Company, North American Company for Life and Health Insurance, Sammons Institutional Group, and Beacon Capital Management, Inc. Committed to our communities, Sammons Financial Group is Midwest-based, with offices in Iowa, Illinois, North Dakota, Ohio, and South Dakota. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206514325/en/

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[December 06, 2023] Desktop Metal Now Shipping the Figur G15 - a Digital Sheet Metal Forming Machine that Eliminates the Need for Custom Tooling Tweet

Desktop Metal (NYSE: DM),a global leader in Additive Manufacturing 2.0 technologies for mass production, today announced the first commercial shipments of the Figur G15, an innovative Digital Sheet Forming (DSF) machine tool, to Saltworks Fab, a Florida-based automotive restoration and hot rod company. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206540661/en/ Justin Nardone, CEO of Figur, a Desktop Metal brand, shown with the Figur G15 machine tool with Digital Sheet Forming (DSF) technology. The Figur G15 is the first commercially available machine tool platform to shape sheet metal on demand without custom tooling. (Photo: Business Wire) Satworks is installing two Figur G15 platforms at its Sarasota, Florida facility to accelerate its auto restoration business and expand access to metal forming services to new customers. The company often creates metal body panels that are no longer commercially available with manual hammering and laborious forming processes. Investing in the Figur G15, the company will dramatically reduce production times while also having the flexibility of digital manufacturing to create complex shapes, efficient one-offs, or produce short-runs of designs. Saltworks recently demonstrated the capabilities of the Figur G15 at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where the team exhibited the entire side body of a Mercedes Gullwing created of 6061 aluminum panels formed on the G15 in under 10 hours for the entire 15-piece assembly. "Our team has over 100 years of combined metal-shaping experience, and we're excited to bring the latest digital metal forming technology in-house," said David Jacobsen, CEO of Saltworks Fab. "The Figur G15 buys us time. It allows us to bring vintage vehicles back to their former glory while also enabling us to enter a whole new level of business helping customers that currently don't have the ability or resources to form metal. Figur G15 allows us to expand access to metal-shaping services to a broader variety of small businesses, design shops, and self-builders." The Figur G15 is the first commercially available machine tool platform to shape sheet metal on demand without custom tooling. Introduced at the 2022 International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago, the Figur G15 uses patent-pending DSF technology in which a software-driven ceraic toolhead on a gantry shapes standard sheet metal into parts with up to 2,000 lbs of forming force without tooling, with software that simplifies the creation of sheet metal part production.



Recently, custom classic car influencer Rob Ida of Rob Ida Concepts in New Jersey posted on Instagram @rob_ida about how he is using the Figur G15 technology to create components for a 1955 Tucker Carioca, a vehicle concept from legendary carmarker Preston Tucker that never made it from drawing to production. "The response to Figur G15 from the market across a wide variety of sectors has been exciting," said Justin Nardone, CEO of Figur, a Desktop Metal brand. "The G15 eliminates a lot of the work required when forming metal, such as the design and manufacturing of tools and dies. Our system produces designs quickly, accurately, and repeatedly, so manufacturers are able to focus on the craftsmanship of design while getting their products to market faster and more efficiently."

Saltworks is planning to purchase two additional G15 systems, for a total of four, to join its initial fleet in the near future with plans to run all four machines over three shifts to keep up with demand. To learn more about Figur, visit figur.desktopmetal.com. About Desktop Metal: Desktop Metal (NYSE:DM) is driving Additive Manufacturing 2.0, a new era of on-demand, digital mass production of industrial, medical, and consumer products. Our innovative 3D printers, materials, and software deliver the speed, cost, and part quality required for this transformation. We're the original inventors and world leaders of the 3D printing methods we believe will empower this shift, binder jetting and digital light processing. Today, our systems print metal, polymer, sand and other ceramics, as well as foam and recycled wood. Manufacturers use our technology worldwide to save time and money, reduce waste, increase flexibility, and produce designs that solve the world's toughest problems and enable once-impossible innovations. Learn more about Desktop Metal and our #TeamDM brands at www.desktopmetal.com. Forward-looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in these communications, including statements regarding Desktop Metal's future results of operations and financial position, financial targets, business strategy, and plans and objectives for future operations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words "believe," "project," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend," "strategy," "future," "opportunity," "plan," "may," "should," "will," "would," "will be," "will continue," "will likely result," and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this document, including but not limited to: risks associated with the integration of the business and operations of acquired businesses; Desktop Metals' ability to realize the benefits from cost saving measures; supply and logistics disruptions, including shortages and delays. For more information about risks and uncertainties that may impact Desktop Metal's business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects generally, please refer to Desktop Metal's reports filed with the SEC, including without limitation the "Risk Factors" and/or other information included in the Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on August 3, 2023, and such other reports as Desktop Metal has filed or may file with the SEC from time to time. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and Desktop Metal, Inc. assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206540661/en/

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[December 06, 2023] Smart Spaces wins Santander Technology Business of the Year at the Growing Business Awards 2023 Tweet

LONDON, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Smart Spaces announces today that it has won the Santander Technology Business of the Year at the Growing Business Awards 2023 - an annual event which honours the UKs most outstanding entrepreneurs and high growth SME businesses.

The judges were impressed by Smart Spaces rapid growth. Its smart building operating system (OS) is leading the market helping to support customers meet their ESG goals and has subsequently established the UK as a global leader in smart building delivery. Dan Drogman, Smart Spaces CEO, says, Our ambition is to be the worlds leading smart building operating system for commercial real estate. Were rapidly realising this goal as evidenced by our recent business performance and the future pipeline of projects were working on. Winning the Santander Technology Business of the Year at the Growing Business Awards makes us extremely proud given its a respected external third party highlighting and endorsing what weve achieved. Key success highlights Over 65 million sqft of global office space now manage through its software platform; 30% reduction in building energy emissions achievable in the first year on average through the use of the Smart Spaces OS; Operations worldwide, with projects in 26 countries including Hong Kong, Dubai, Paris and New York; New office opened in Prague this year to target mainland Europe; UK customers include AXA, CBRE, The Crown Estate, GPE, JLL, Hines, Landsec, Lewis Silkin and Santander. Smart Spaces software is used in celebrated developments in London like 22 Bishopsgate, Bankside Yards, Hanover Square, Paddington Square and 1 Berkeley Street, as well as in Manchester (The Noma neighbourhood) and Leeds (Wellington Place). Europes first Apple Wallet integration at 22 Bishopsgate for access control, partnering with trusted identity partner, HID. This makes it quicker and more convenient for workers to utilise the Smart Spaces app to gain access to the building as the employee badge and credential required for door entry is 'saved' in Apple Wallet. Leveraging HID Mobile Access, this means staff do this using their iPhones or Apple Watches. Other new OS developments which include integration with Charge Point. This enables people to quickly find the closest EV charging stations for their cars - direct from the app.





For further information and an award logo, click here Contact:

Tom Herbst

Mobile: +447768145571

Email: [email protected]



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[December 06, 2023] Kramer Levin Elevates Three Lawyers to Partner Tweet

Kramer Levin announced today the elections of Mathilde Carle, Scott A. Gorski and Christian E. Witzke to partner positions in the firm. Mathilde is based in Paris, and Scott and Christian are based in New York. Co-Managing Partners Paul H. Schoeman and Howard T. Spilko said, "We congratulate these three exceptional lawyers and commend them for the hard work and superior client service that have brought them to this point in their careers. We look forward to their continued success." Mathilde Carle - Intellectual Property, Paris Mathilde Carle advises on intellectual property matters, particularly in the protection and defense of trademarks, copyrights and designs. She has developed significant experience in the audiovisual, fashion, distribution and technology sectors. Mathilde is the European head of Kramer Levin's Cybersecurity, Privacy and Data Protection practice and collaborates with the firm's FinTech, Private Equity and M&A teams, advising on the intellectual property aspects of their matters.



Mathilde received an LL.M. from Cornell Law School and a Master 2 in literary, artistic and industrial property law from the University of Paris II, Pantheon-Assas. Scott A. Gorski - Immigration, New York

Scott A. Gorski works on the full range of employment-based business immigration matters. He advises multinational corporations, startups, nonprofits and other organizations seeking immigrant and nonimmigrant visas on behalf of their employees and guides clients seeking to hire, transfer and retain foreign talent. His work includes obtaining temporary work authorization for managers, professionals, artists, individuals of extraordinary ability and other people with specialized skills and securing permanent residence status for employees. Scott also counsels clients on the immigration implications of corporate reorganizations and mergers and acquisitions as well as on employer sanctions and other immigration compliance obstacles across the U.S. immigration system. Scott received a J.D., magna cum laude, from Fordham University School of Law and a B.S., magna cum laude, in communication with a concentration in information technology from Cornell University. Christian E. Witzke - Private Equity, New York Christian E. Witzke advises private equity funds and their portfolio companies, public companies, and private businesses in mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, equity financings, and other investment transactions. He guides clients through the inevitable and often unique complications arising at every stage of these transactions, from strategic structuring and negotiation of deal and corporate governance documents through due diligence and to closing. Some of his notable recent work includes syndicate acquisitions involving the structuring and negotiation of intricate multiparty investment relationships. Christian received a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center and a B.A. in psychology from Amherst College. About Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP Kramer Levin provides its clients proactive, creative and pragmatic solutions that address today's most challenging legal issues. The firm is headquartered in New York with offices in Silicon Valley, Washington, DC, and Paris and fosters a strong culture of involvement in public and community service. For more information, visit www.kramerlevin.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206912410/en/

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[December 06, 2023] Insurity's AI Resolves 75% of Policyholder Needs Without a Live Agent, Setting New Standard in P&C Insurance Customer Support Tweet

Insurity, a leading provider of cloud software for insurance carriers, brokers, and MGAs, today announced a significant milestone in providing AI-driven policyholder service within the P&C insurance sector. Insurity's AI now autonomously resolves 75% of policyholder needs, effectively minimizing the dependency on live agent interactions during times of increased call volumes following disasters or other severe weather events. As more P&C insurance organizations look to differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market, improving policyholder support stands out as a main priority and key differentiator. Insurity's ability to resolve 75% of policyholder needs without a live agent through its AI tools underscores Insurity's commitment to enhancing the policyholder experience through AI-powered technology. The integration of AI into Insurity's services has not only streamlined operational processes but also dramatically improved policyholder satisfaction and customer retention. Insurity's cloud-native AI is designed to address commonly asked questions, offer instant resolutions, and provide personalized support. This results in a significant reduction in the need for live agent intervention. Policyholders now njoy a more efficient, self-serve support experience, with round-the-clock availability and instant access through their preferred communication channels. As Insurity continues to expand its AI capabilities, its solutions remain focused on transforming the policyholder experience while driving greater operational efficiency and profitability for insurers.



"Insurity's AI is redefining what it means to provide industry-leading policyholder support, and it is a testament to our forward-thinking approach on how insurers can incorporate AI into their business," said Chris Lafond, Chief Executive Officer at Insurity. "By resolving 75% of policyholder needs independently, our AI solutions are not only elevating the customer experience but also reshaping the operational dynamics of the insurance industry. Our aim is to continue leading the market in leveraging AI to set new benchmarks in customer satisfaction and operational efficiency." Insurity is the public cloud market leader with 330 customers deployed in AWS and Azure, and its robust cloud infrastructure forms the backbone of these AI-powered solutions. Insurity's infrastructure facilitates seamless integration with emerging AI technologies, APIs, and microservices, further solidifying Insurity's position at the forefront of bringing AI capabilities into the P&C insurance technology fold.

To learn more about how Insurity's AI solutions can benefit your organization, please get in touch with [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. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206602213/en/

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[December 06, 2023] Identify, Alert, and Prevent Late Order Fulfillment with Nowsight AI-Driven On-time Delivery Tweet

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nowsight, the innovator of real-time business insights, unveils an AI-driven order delivery solution that enables companies to see shipment status by account priority, order size, delivery date, product type, and more  all using the data and systems companies already use.

This is a groundbreaking capability, said Kevin Stroud, President, NexLAN. The ability to pull in data from any system, including spreadsheets, and to then apply AI to surface insights about the potential impact of late orders is unlike anything else Ive seen. It increases the ability to quickly see, track, and correct orders to ensure top- and bottom-line growth. B2B buying trends are now mirroring B2C as buyers bring Amazon-like expectations to the business purchasing experience. Recent research shows 14% of buyers will abandon a retailer if they receive a late delivery one time. Combine that with increasing global competition, and every single late order puts customer loyalty at risk, driving down customer lifetime value. You cant underestimate the impact that both on-time and late deliveries have on a business, said Nowsight CEO Michael Schader. And while inventory or finance systems show some parts of outbound shipments, they lose the ability to then pply logic to that data by priority, plant/location, or other key attributes. Thats why we developed On Time Delivery, building on our entire suite of AI-enhanced business tools. Its also why we created an on-demand cost calculator to help organizations quantify, even conservatively, the impact of late orders.



On Time Delivery is a web-based solution that updates automatically and can be configured by Nowsights white-glove implementation team with minimal IT involvement. It can be configured to send email or text alerts based on changes to order status so account managers can proactively control the conversation around delivery. For more information about Nowsight On Time Delivery visit nowsight.com or, to request access to our True Cost of Late Deliveries calculator, email [email protected] .

ABOUT NOWSIGHT

Nowsight real-time data solutions deliver real-time data insights for retail, wholesale, and distribution industries. Combining business expertise and innovation, Nowsight solutions are designed by business leaders, for business leaders to address the most pressing operational insights. Nowsight believes data insights shouldnt be hidden behind license fees, and that real-time alerts, click-to-drill visualizations, and intuitive user experiences drive high-performance teams and record revenue and profitability.



A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4c141b59-baf3-4e46-b9c9-9cd84f3f1c99

Media contact: Michelle Murray [email protected]

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[December 06, 2023] Schwab Announces Its Winter Business Update Tweet

The Charles Schwab Corporation announced today that it has scheduled a Winter Business Update for institutional investors on Wednesday, January 17th. This Update, which will be held via live public webcast, is part of an ongoing series designed to help the investment community keep abreast of recent developments and management's strategic focus. The program is scheduled to run from 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. CT, 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. ET. Participants will include Walt Bettinger, Co-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Rick Wurster, President, and Peter Crawford, Chief Financial Officer. The Update will be accessible at https://schwabevents.com/corporation. About Charles Schwab The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE: SCHW) is a leading provider of financial services, with 34.6 million active brokerage accounts, 5.2 million workplace plan participant accounts, 1.8 millin banking accounts, and $7.65 trillion in client assets as of October 31, 2023. Through its operating subsidiaries, the company provides a full range of wealth management, securities brokerage, banking, asset management, custody, and financial advisory services to individual investors and independent investment advisors. Its broker-dealer subsidiaries, Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., TD Ameritrade, Inc., and TD Ameritrade Clearing, Inc., (members SIPC, https://www.sipc.org), and their affiliates offer a complete range of investment services and products including an extensive selection of mutual funds; financial planning and investment advice; retirement plan and equity compensation plan services; referrals to independent, fee-based investment advisors; and custodial, operational and trading support for independent, fee-based investment advisors through Schwab Advisor Services. Its primary banking subsidiary, Charles Schwab Bank, SSB (member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender), provides banking and lending services and products. More information is available at https://www.aboutschwab.com.



TD Ameritrade, Inc. and TD Ameritrade Clearing, Inc. are separate but affiliated companies and subsidiaries of TD Ameritrade Holding Corporation. TD Ameritrade Holding Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Charles Schwab Corporation. TD Ameritrade is a trademark jointly owned by TD Ameritrade IP Company, Inc. and The Toronto-Dominion Bank.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206156092/en/

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[December 06, 2023] Travelers Digital Transformation Strategy Analysis Report 2023 Featuring Amazon, Samsung, Paypal, Bayer, Westhill, Google, Zensurance, Trov, and Kittyhawk - ResearchAndMarkets.com Tweet

The "Travelers - Digital Transformation Strategies" company profile has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. This report provides insight into Travelers' fintech activities, including its digital transformation strategies, its innovation programs, its technology initiatives, its estimated ICT budget, and its major ICT contracts. Travelers is an insurance company that offers a range of commercial and personal property and casualty insurance products and services. It provides insurance products for auto, real estate, marine, valuable items, wedding, and identity fraud. It also offers flood insurance, business owner cover, special risk insurance, management and professional liability insurance, and surety bonds. In addition, the company offers claims settlement and insurance advisory services. The company provides its products and services to individuals, government units, associations, and businesses. Travelers markets and sells its products through independent agents, brokers, branch offices, and direct marketing. The company operates in the US, Canada, Brazil, Colombia, the UK, and Ireland. Scope Travelers Business Insurance introduced the Connected Protetion program, a vendor referral initiative aimed at helping customers reduce risk by connecting them with IoT solutions.

Travelers developed a virtual reality (VR) program for its contractor clients to provide safety training for employees on how to operate a crane. The program creates a simulation of various factors - including load weight, wind, and the length of the crane's boom - which helps crane operators practice in a safe, real-time environment.

Travelers collaborated with Google Cloud to develop a cloud-based data ecosystem to analyze vast amounts of information to aid Travelers' underwriters in assessing potential risks for large and middle market businesses.

Travelers Innovation Center focuses on developing an innovation ecosystem devoted to encouraging the collaborative creation of technological capabilities alongside startups.



Reasons to Buy Gain insights into Travelers' fintech operations.

Gain insights into its fintech strategies and innovation initiatives.

Gain insights into its technology themes under focus.

Gain insights into its various product launches, partnerships, and investment strategies. Key Topics Covered:

Overview

Digital Transformation Strategy

Accelerators, Incubators, and Other Innovation Programs

Technology Focus

Technology Initiatives

Investment

Acquisitions

Partnership and Investment Network Map

ICT Budget and Contracts

Key Executives

Contact the Publisher A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes Amazon

Samsung

Paypal

Bayer

Westhill

Google cloud

Zensurance

Trov

Kittyhawk For more information about this company profile visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/708gqe 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. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206223348/en/

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[December 06, 2023] Mayor of Pompano Beach to Visit Doroni Aerospace's Flying Car Facility to Celebrate FAA Certification Tweet

POMPANO BEACH, Fla., Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pompano Beach-based Doroni Aerospace, a leading pioneering in sustainable transportation and urban air mobility, is honored to welcome the Mayor of Pompano Beach, Rex Hardin, to their facility on Thursday, December 7th at 11am ET in honor of the company receiving its official FAA certification of their revolutionary eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft, the Doroni H1. This achievement not only underscores the safety, reliability, and operational readiness of the H1 but also solidifies Doroni and South Florida's position at the forefront of the personal air mobility sector.

During his visit, Doroni will showcase their H1 vehicle, simulator, manufacturing facility, and more celebrating their newly secured FAA certification. Mayor Hardins endorsement is a testament to the rigorous testing, quality control, and adherence to the highest safety standards that have been integral to the development of the Doroni H1 eVTOL. Mayor Rex Hardin shared, "I am thrilled to visit the Doroni Aerospace facility here in the heart of South Florida. Witnessing firsthand the remarkable innovations they have brought to our community is truly inspiring. Their commitment to advancing technology, not just locally but as a beacon in South Florida, and their significant contribution to our local economy is highly commendable." Since its establishment in 2016by serial entrepreneur Doron Merdinger, Doroni Aerospace has been dedicated to transforming the way we travel. With a world-class engineering and technical team, the company has developed their advanced aircraft designed to provide a safe, practical, and environmentally friendly mobility solution.



"We are honored to welcome Mayor Rex Hardin to our facility. His support and recognition of our efforts mean a lot to us and solidify our commitment to driving innovation in the aerospace industry. We are excited to showcase our groundbreaking technology and the impact it will have on the future of flight," said Doron Merdinger, CEO at Doroni Aerospace. Mayor Hardin will be available for interviews and can discuss what this advanced technology means for South Florida, and how Doroni is leading the industry.

To RSVP, please email Caroline Whelan at [email protected]. For further insights into Doroni Aerospace's innovative eVTOL technology and its mission to revolutionize sustainable transportation, please visit www.doroni.io or contact the company at [email protected]. About Doroni Aerospace:

Founded in 2016 by serial entrepreneur Doron Merdinger, Doroni Aerospace is revolutionizing sustainable transportation with its cutting-edge electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology. With 25 years of experience in design, manufacturing, and managing eight-figure firms, Doron assembled a world-class engineering and technical team to deliver on his ultimate vision of democratizing the power of flight and providing consumers with an entirely new mode of mobility. Doroni's mission is to offer a safety-centric, eco-friendly mobility option to the public, commonly referred to as 'flying cars.' By enabling people to transport themselves intuitively within urban environments and between destinations at a fraction of the time possible with traditional automobiles, Doroni aims to transform the way we travel. For press inquiries or further information, please contact:

Stephen Francy

Rubenstein PR

212-805-3017

[email protected]



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The United States said late Tuesday it would refuse visas for extremist Israeli settlers behind a wave of violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, as it also asked Israel to do more to spare civilians in Gaza.

The visa measures amount to a rare concrete repercussion by the United States against Israelis in the nearly two-month-old Israeli war on Gaza, in which President Joe Biden has nudged the US ally privately but also promised strong support.

"We have underscored to the Israeli government the need to do more to hold accountable extremist settlers who have committed violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.

"As President Biden has repeatedly said, those attacks are unacceptable," he said.

Blinken said the United States would refuse entry to anyone involved in "undermining peace, security or stability in the West Bank" or who takes actions that "unduly restrict civilians' access to essential services and basic necessities."

"Instability in the West Bank both harms the Israeli and Palestinian people and threatens Israel's national security interests. Those responsible for it must be held accountable," Blinken said.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said that dozens of settlers, who were not publicly named, would be affected. The visa ban also applies to their immediate family members.

The US decision remains a point of contention as nearly 60,000 Americans reside in these Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

Restrictions on entering the United States will not apply to extremist settlers who are US citizens.

All Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories are considered illegal by the international community, as they contravene the Fourth Geneva Convention, which prohibits the transfer of population into occupied territories.

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[December 06, 2023] Capgemini's Former Global Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, Lanny S. Cohen, Backs Economic Transformation Technologies (ETT) as the World's Marquis Enterprise AI Data and Interoperability Platform Tweet

In a move to spearhead advancements in Economic Transformation Technologies (ETT), Lanny S. Cohen, former Global Chief Technology and Innovation Officer and Country Board Chairman & CEO for North America of Capgemini SE, a worldwide leader in consulting, technology services, and digital transformation, has made a strategic investment in ETT in anticipation of its future disruptive technology portfolio to drive exceptional business performance and value for enterprises across the globe. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205124632/en/ (Graphic: Business Wire) Mr. Cohen will contribute his experience and expertise as Senior Advisor to ETT's Chairman & CEO, Board, and executive team, assisting in market focus, business development, major accounts, business operations and execution, and strategic partnerships to ensure globalscale, alignment, and stakeholder returns. This relationship and collaboration aim to leverage Cohen's diverse backgrounds and business technology know-how to scale the ETT SMITH Platform, utilizing its data management, interoperability, data storage, and advanced Artificial Intelligence solutions at the world's largest companies.



With a distinguished career spanning over 30 years at Capgemini and Ernst & Young, Cohen has demonstrated leadership in various roles from consultant to partner/vice president to CEO. As head of Capgemini's global Chief Technology Officer network, he has played a pivotal role in integrating new technology trends, anticipating and responding to client needs, and strengthening partnerships on technology matters. Cohen, recognized as one of Consulting Magazine's Top 25 Most Influential Consultants, has been a thought leader behind Capgemini's business technology platform, cloud, and AI strategies, and co-founded Capgemini's Applied Innovation Exchange global network. "We're thrilled to welcome Lanny Cohen to our ETT family, as we believe his wisdom, knowledge, and experience will be a great asset to our corporation and will be instrumental in our customers and partners gaining groundbreaking business results from our disruptive technologies." - Christopher Condon, Chairman & CEO of ETT

"Lanny is a trusted advisor for several Fortune 1000 companies, with the unique ability to solve cross-industry challenges, as proven throughout his career. We are honored to have him join the team." - Barbara Stinnett, President & COO About ETT Economic Transformation Technologies (ETT Corp.) is leading the path for Digital and Economic Transformation with its Innovative Technology Platforms, connected Data Systems, and Advanced Artificial Intelligence in Sectors Ripe for Positive Disruption. For more information, please visit: www.ettworld.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205124632/en/

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[December 06, 2023] VuWall Unites Hundreds of Sources and Streamlines the Operational Workflow for SIMOS Control Center Tweet

Video Wall Solutions Bridge AV, IT, and IP Systems for Seamless Management and Control of Visual Content MONTREAL  Dec. 6, 2023  VuWall, a technology leader in video wall control systems and unified visualization solutions, today announced that it provided the SIMOS control center for security and mobility in Stuttgart, Germany with the highest level of video wall control, management, and flexibility. The VuWall system, installed by Mevis.tv and specified by consultant Erben Engineering GmbH, is comprised of 12 VuScape controllers, two VuStream E240 encoders, and one VuWall Application Server  all managed by the companys award-winning TRx centralized video wall management platform.







There are many parts and pieces to deploying a video wall system for a project of this scale and complexity, said Hans-Joachim Spies, Founder and Managing Director at Mevis.tv. As an integrator, its paramount that everything works together seamlessly. VuWalls ecosystem exceeded our high standards not only for performance, but also for scalability, flexibility, and interoperability. It dramatically reduced our integration time and eliminated any concern about compatibility between the various products within the AV and IP infrastructure. Its an exceptional system for an exceptional project. SIMOS houses two independent control centers  the integrated control center (ILS) and the integrated traffic control center (IVLZ). The ILS provides around-the-clock operation and support for incoming emergency calls for the fire brigade and German Red Cross. IVLZ is responsible for monitoring all of the citys traffic and tunnel surveillance cameras, as well as the electronic traffic display systems on the main roads, which are overseen by four dispatchers from the office for public order, civil engineering office, the Stuttgart tram, and the police. For this project, Mevis.tv installed two video walls for each of the control centers: The ILS is equipped with a video wall comprised of 48 Barco UniSee 55 LCD displays, and the IVLZ control room video wall is made up of 14 Barco UniSee 55 displays. In addition, there are eight displays installed across two crisis meeting rooms that need access to the same sources. Although all these rooms are distinct, the VuWall system provided the organizations with a single, IP-based video wall processing and management system that connects them with a virtual infrastructure.



VuWalls high-performance video wall processor and VuStream encoders ensure high-quality video stream distribution across the network with low latency and high performance for up to 4:4:4 of 4K video streams. The Application Server provides quick access to websites, dashboards, and applications from a single, centralized source with the necessary security and without overburdening the network. All these appliances are managed by the TRx centralized video wall management platform, enabling SIMOS operators to easily control and distribute visual information and data to any display or video wall on the network. TRx is unique in combining AV-over-IP distribution and advanced multi-video wall and KVM management. Its engineered to be robust enough for multi-room distribution projects such as SIMOS. The centralized platform ensures intuitive configuration, management, and distribution of virtually any source type to any display without any programming. Its simple drag-and-drop capability also saves time for integrators and operators alike. Mevis.tv also benefitted from TRxs API, which integrates with the organizations Crestron building control system.





We are so proud to see that SIMOS is leveraging the modularity, ease-of-use, and reliability weve built into our ecosystem, fulfilling their objectives with this incredible project, said Eric Henique, Executive Vice President of International Sales at VuWall. Operators can see exactly what they need when they need it on the display of their choosing while providing the redundancy and low latency that control rooms demand. Plus, it all works seamlessly within their existing workflow for the most effective distribution of visual information. Learn more about VuWall and its full line of solutions at vuwall.com.



# # # About VuWall VuWall, a global technology leader in video wall control systems and unified visualization solutions, develops solutions to easily manage visual information on video walls and displays throughout facilities.



They have pioneered a new and disruptive approach to video wall and KVM management in AV-over-IP environments, bridging AV, IT, and IP systems to seamlessly manage and control visual content. VuWall delivers a state-of-the-art ecosystem of video wall processors, encoders, and decoders  all managed by their unique and interoperable TRx Centralized Management Platform, eliminating the complexity of traditional video wall control and signal distribution over IP, with easy drag-and-drop operations and without any programming. VuWall is recognized for its innovative solutions that increase productivity and enhance visualization experiences in control rooms and corporate workspaces. Their TRx software sets a new industry benchmark in ease of use and deployment for the most effective distribution of any source to any type of display in professional and mission-critical applications. VuWalls award-winning solutions power more than 5,000 video walls in some of the worlds most prestigious Fortune 500 companies in more than 45 countries. VuWall is headquartered in Montreal, Canada with a European Headquarter in Reutlingen, Germany and a US-based office in Atlanta, Georgia. www.vuwall.com PR Link: www.ingearpr.com/VuWall/231206-VuWall-SIMOS.docx Image Link: www.ingearpr.com/VuWall/mgf_SIMOS-Stuttgart_01_full_-scaled.jpg www.ingearpr.com/VuWall/mgf_SIMOS-Stuttgart_web_07.jpg www.ingearpr.com/VuWall/mgf_SIMOS-Stuttgart_web_08.jpg www.ingearpr.com/VuWall/mgf_SIMOS-Stuttgart_web_10.jpg Image Caption: VuWall Unites Hundreds of Sources and Streamlines the Operational Workflow for SIMOS Control Center Follow VuWall: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vuwall/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vuwall LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vuwall X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/vuwall YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/VuWall As a community-building service, TMCnet allows user submitted content which is not always proofed by TMCnet editors. If you feel this entry is of inferior quality or wish to report it for some reason, please forward the URL to "webedit [AT] tmcnet [DOT] com" with your comments.

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[December 06, 2023] SCOTTSDALE CONSTRUCTION SYSTEMS ACQUIRED BY US-BASED FIRMS VENTURE FIRST AND TYP64 Tweet

Intelligent Steel Frame and Truss Technology Firm Poised for Rapid Expansion in US & EU LOUISVILLE, Ky., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Investment and financial services firm, Venture First, and digital transformation group, TYP64 have announced the acquisition of Australian-based Scottsdale Construction Systems. The combined private equity portfolio of Venture First and TYP64 will provide digital transformation services to Scottsdale's high-performance steel framing construction system to support the scale of worldwide production. Intelligent Steel Frame and Truss Technology Firm Poised for Rapid Expansion in US & EU Scottsdale manufactures and supports the most advanced light gauge steel wall frame and roof truss technology in the world. Its steel roll forming machines are enabled with proprietary technology to provide durable solutions ranging through single or multi-machine, high-volume applications. "We are excited to build on this strategic partnership, and look forward to our next chapter alongside the Venture First and TYP64 teams," said Scottsdale CEO, Derek McSpadden. "They have a proven methodology in their ability to deploy enterprise-wide digital transformation solutions, and we believe that will partner well with our own history of innovation in this fast-paced industry." The steel truss market is expected to increase exponentially in the next three to five years globally as the manufacturing industry is under increasing pressure, and thus demand, for products that are environmentally sustainable and eco-friendly. Light-weight steel framing systems continue to replace traditional wood as a viable option for long-term effectiveness and efficiency in new construction. "We are committed to investing in promising companies that have talented teams and innovative technologies," said Venture First CEO, John Shumate. "We elieve Scottsdale has an unique opportunity to take advantage of a rapidly changing commercial and residential building market that is ripe for the manufacturing system and technology they offer."



Initial capital will be utilized in three primary areas: to build and deploy investment options for customers, increase capacity to fulfill orders faster, and to quickly expand into new markets, including through distribution partnerships within the EU and US where building regulations are increasingly requiring the use of steel in both commercial and small business construction. "Scottsdale has been, and will continue to be, the industry leader in light gauge steel framing industry," said Steve Huey, Founder and CEO of TYP64. "We see the opportunity that lies ahead for everyone on the team at Scottsdale, and we are excited to combine forces to quickly scale this much-needed product across the world."

About Scottsdale:

Founded in 1995 Scottsdale Construction Systems is dedicated to innovating, manufacturing, delivering and supporting the most advanced light gauge steel wall frame and roof truss technology worldwide. We seamlessly integrate our software technology with our steel roll-forming machines to provide durable solutions ranging through single- to multi-machine, high-volume applications. Scottsdale maintains an innovation-centric culture at its New Zealand manufacturing base, and is designed to promote and develop the creativity of each employee and to satisfy the fast changing needs of our 200 customers in over 80 countries. Scottsdale has offices in Loganholme, AUS, Napier NZ, and Denver, USA. For more information visit: scottsdalesteelframes.com.

For Scottsdale inquiries please contact: [email protected] About Venture First:

Venture First is a growth-focused investment firm with over $140 million under management. The group has curated a variety of niche funds, investments, and special purpose vehicles, including Whiskey Capital Finance Co., Strike Ventures, among others. The company is also home to a financial services group providing deal structuring, M&A and capital raise advice, fractional CFO services, and an array of equity and derivative valuation capabilities. The group has worked closely with several hundred innovative companies and their investors in more than 60 cities around the globe to provide them with the financial and strategic tools to be successful. Founded in 2010, Venture First is headquartered in Louisville, KY with offices in Boston, Cincinnati, Miami and Dallas. For more information, visit VentureFirst.com.

For Venture First inquiries please contact: [email protected] About TYP64:

TYP64 is a digital transformation group focusing on bringing the best technological solutions to traditional industries and companies. The group has worked with family owned and managed business, early and later stage companies. TYP64 takes the founders' perspective and pursues the continuance of founders' mission and purpose. The group has developed systems and processes to integrate current systems with forward-facing technologies that breathe renewed life into established and aging businesses. Founded in 2017, TYP64 is headquartered in Louisville, KY but utilizes its ties with technology leaders around the world to bring the best solutions to global businesses. For more information, visit TYP64.com.

For TYP64 inquiries, please contact: [email protected] Media Contact:

Venture First

Jack Hellige

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/scottsdale-construction-systems-acquired-by-us-based-firms-venture-first-and-typ64-302008085.html SOURCE Venture First, LLC

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[December 06, 2023] Human Capital Management Solutions Market size to increase by USD 11.19 billion between 2022-2027 | The increasing demand for unified solutions for all HR functions drives the market growth - Technavio Tweet

NEW YORK, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In a recent Technavio report titled Human Capital Management Solutions Market is projected to grow at a rapid pace in the coming years. The market size is estimated to grow by USD 11.19 billion, accelerating at a CAGR of almost 8.45% during the forecast period. It is revealed that North America is estimated to contribute 34% to the growth of the global market's share. Buy the report now The growing demand for integrated HR solutions, driven by digital technology adoption, is boosting the HCM solutions market. These systems streamline HR processes like payroll, recruitment, and performance reviews. HCM offers a unified platform that simplifies HR tasks and facilitates information sharing with other software, benefiting sectors like finance and banking. The BFSI industry in India, for instance, is leveraging HCM solutions to streamline their HR functions, leading to a projected global market growth for HCM solutions. Request a Free Sample Report North America is expected to contribute significant growth due to factors like increased job opportunities, globalization leading to more job seekers, expanded use of social media in recruitment, and a strong focus on cost optimization. The continuous expansion of the US economy, particularly in sectors like manufacturing, IT, and oil and gas, has attracted investments in digital technologies. This increased competition in industries such as automotive and IT will drive companies to adopt advanced HR technologies like HCM, further boosting the NorthAmerican market forward.



Technavio highlights the emerging trends of Human Capital Management Solutions Market: Increased demand from SMEs for optimal HR solutions due to constraints in time, user adoption, and finances.

Availability of varied-priced HCM solutions driven by technological advancements benefits SMEs in hiring quality candidates faster, enhancing competitive advantage.

Advantages for SMEs using HCM solutions: global workforce management, staffing, payroll processing, training, performance management, employee self-service, and business intelligence, boosting demand during the forecast period. Technavio has segmented the market based on application (core HR, talent, and workforce), component (solution and service), and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa).

The core HR segment is expected to contribute more to the market share during the forecast period. Core HR functions encompass tasks like recruiting employees, providing training, managing payroll, scheduling, administering benefits, handling internal relations, and ensuring safety and compliance. According to Technavio Analysis, the HCM solutions market's growth is influenced by various factors such as technological advancements, market trends, and regional dynamics. Despite challenges provided by open-source alternatives, the demand for unified HR solutions and the increasing adoption by SMEs signal promising opportunities for market expansion, particularly in regions like North America. For more information and detailed analysis, download the sample report here Related Reports: Talent Management Software Market: The talent management software market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 11.26% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 9,153.38 million. Human Resource Outsourcing (HRO) Market: The human resource outsourcing (HRO) market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.65% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 13.65 billion. TOC Executive Summary Market Landscape Market Sizing Historic Market Size Five Forces Analysis Market Segmentation by Application Market Segmentation by Component Customer Landscape Geographic Landscape Drivers, Challenges, and Trends Company Landscape Company Analysis Appendix About US

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/ View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/human-capital-management-solutions-market-size-to-increase-by-usd-11-19-billion-between-2022-2027--the-increasing-demand-for-unified-solutions-for-all-hr-functions-drives-the-market-growth---technavio-302007339.html SOURCE Technavio

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Here at www.TonysKansasCity.com we rely on this newsletter update from a statesman of Kansas City that offers an important perspective, a ton of info and insight into Congress from an elected leader who locals enthusiastically send back to the Beltway again and again.

This is likely the last major newsletter update of the year and there's a ton to cover . . . We edited out a few links to even more writing but kept the basics of the message. Readers can subscribe to the e-mail blast in full at the Congressman's website.

For now . . .



Here's the word:



EC From DC: Israel Update, My Thoughts on George Santos, Fighting to Lower Housing Costs, and the Passing of Mayor Berkley



Hello Neighbor,



Last week, following the Thanksgiving Recess Period, Congress returned to Washington to continue our work on behalf of the American people. Unfortunately, as has been the case since the GOP took control of the House of Representatives this past January, the People's House was much more focused on partisan politics and political theater than it was on delivering bipartisan solutions that will provide tangible benefits to our communities--something House Democrats were able to achieve last Congress, with bills like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, Honoring Our PACT Act, Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, Respect for Marriage Act, and more.



Despite the lack of seriousness coming from some of my colleagues across the aisle, leading to one of the least productive Congresses ever, the United States is facing an extraordinarily serious moment in history, with Putin continuing his despicable invasion of Ukraine, Israel working to return innocent hostages and remove Hamas from power in Gaza, and America's economy continuing to recover from the global pandemic. Therefore, I will not relent in my efforts to pass bipartisan legislation that will lower costs for hardworking families, create good-paying jobs for Missouri workers, support our democratic allies, and protect American democracy for future generations.



Today, I want to provide a brief update on some of my work on each of these fronts. Without further ado, let's get to it.

Update on the War Between Israel and Hamas



For more than forty years, I have been publicly supportive of Israel's right to not only exist but defend its right to exist--and nothing has changed since the beginning of that relationship. On October 7, Hamas, which has conducted many anti-Israel attacks since the 1990s and has been designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the United States, launched a ferocious and bloody assault on Israel and innocent civilians therein. I quickly condemned that abhorrent attack, while also calling for American diplomacy to assist in efforts to return hostages that were ruthlessly ripped from their homes and work to de-escalate the conflict as soon as possible. Predictably and understandably, just as any other nation would do, Israel has since worked to eliminate Hamas' leadership, remove their grip on power in Gaza, and degrade their military capabilities to prevent any future threat from the terrorist organization.



On October 25, I joined 411 other members of the U.S. House of Representatives in declaring solidarity with Israel and pledging security assistance--which is still being negotiated in the U.S. Senate.



In meetings I have had since, in Kansas City and in D.C., with both Palestinian and Israeli groups, I have explained that I recognize Hamas does not represent all Palestinian people, and that the United States must do everything possible to provide humanitarian relief to the innocent Palestinians that wanted no part of this conflict. I have also stated publicly that I would not sign on to a House Resolution calling for a ceasefire, something that I stand by today. I explained that the United States Congress cannot vote a ceasefire into existence, and I will not give my constituents the false hope that we can. I believe a durable ceasefire is a worthy goal that the Biden Administration is working toward--but it also requires two willing participants, and Hamas' stated mission of eradicating Israel and their history of unilaterally breaking ceasefires, as they did on October 7th, makes such a possibility extraordinarily difficult. Not to mention neither the United States nor Israel would directly enter into negotiations with a terrorist organization, which is why the Biden Administration has been facilitating discussions through the nation of Qatar.



However, we can never give up on the prospect of peace or on those being held hostage, which is why before Thanksgiving, I called for a bilateral ceasefire in exchange for the release of innocent hostages and the allowance of desperately needed humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians--and I was relieved when such an agreement was announced, with more than 100 of the approximately 240 hostages held by Hamas released over a weeklong cessation of hostilities. It was my hope that the release of hostages, a surge of humanitarian relief into Gaza, and guns falling silent would allow for broader discussions on a long-term, durable peace agreement. Unfortunately, Hamas' refusal to release all of their hostages and their decision to launch rockets into Israel derailed such an opportunity.



Although I am bitterly disappointed that the conflict has resumed, as I believe that violence only begets more violence, I know President Biden is working every day to secure hostages, protect Palestinian and Israeli civilians, and achieve a durable peace. In fact, I praise his Administration for securing the temporary ceasefire, freeing of innocent hostages that are now home, and providing aid into Gaza--but the Administration's work is far from over. My position today is the same as that of the President and my long-time friend, Steny Hoyer, who said it best: "So long as Hamas maintains its operational capacity, its oppression of innocent Palestinians in Gaza and its genocidal campaign against Jews and the State of Israel will continue. We have a duty to help stop them."



Voting to Expel Representative George Santos



Throughout my time in the House of Representatives, I've worked with countless lawmakers who genuinely want to make a difference in the lives of their constituents and the communities that elected them to Congress. While I know this may not be a popular opinion, I truly believe that most lawmakers are good and decent people who want to deliver for those they represent, even if they disagree on the best policy to do so. But I must also admit that there are certainly a few bad apples who do their best to spoil the whole bunch--which is one reason why Congress consistently receives low approval ratings from the American people.



Tragically, instead of focusing on passing legislation that would benefit families in Missouri, the House of Representatives was forced to take time last week to remove a lawmaker whose disgraceful conduct broke the public's trust.



Last week, following a scathing bipartisan report from the House Ethics Committee that confirmed numerous allegations of fraud, illicit activity, and financial misconduct, the House of Representatives took the extreme step of expelling Representative George Santos (R-NY) from the People's House. I want you to know that voting to expel a lawmaker from the House of Representatives--which has only been done six times in the history of the United States--brought me no joy or pleasure, because I know that it only further damages the institution and the American people's faith in their representatives and our democracy.



However, Mr. Santos' conduct was so egregious and despicable that I felt compelled to support his expulsion. It is my hope that his expulsion will remove this unnecessary distraction from the People's House and allow Democrats and Republicans to come together to deliver bipartisan solutions that will benefit families in Missouri's Fifth Congressional District.



Calling on House Leaders to Advance Bipartisan Bills to Lower Housing Costs Before Year's End



As the Ranking Member on the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, I have heard from countless families in Missouri and all across the country who continue to struggle with the rising costs of housing. Whether you are a renter or looking to buy a house of your own, America's lack of housing supply has driven up costs in communities all over, hindering economic opportunity for families in Kansas City and beyond. While I certainly believe Congress should provide federal investments to support the creation of affordable housing, there are other actions Congress can take to incentivize construction--and I'm calling on Congressional Leaders to take those steps immediately.



Last week, I pressed Speaker Mike Johnson, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith, and Ranking Member Mike Neal to advance multiple bipartisan bills that would help stimulate the creation of affordable housing, including by strengthening the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, which has facilitated the creation of more than 3.7 million housing units since 1986. The Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act--the most bipartisan bill in Congress, with 186 cosponsors, evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats--would support the financing of affordable housing by expanding and strengthening the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. Experts estimate that such steps would lead to the construction of an additional 2 million new, affordable homes over the next decade--and would demonstrate to the American people that Congress is serious about lowering housing costs.



Additionally, I called on House Leaders to allow a vote on the Neighborhood Homes Investment Act, which would create a new federal tax credit for the development and renovation of family housing in distressed urban, suburban, and rural neighborhoods. Again, this bill enjoys overwhelming bipartisan support, and experts estimate its passage would result in an additional 500,000 starter homes in under-resourced communities over the next decade.



Although government is divided at the moment, we cannot simply give up on legislating for the American people. Democracy demands compromise, and lawmakers have a responsibility to push for progress on behalf of our communities, even if only incremental. There are bipartisan bills that can help to increase our housing supply nationwide, which will lower housing costs for hardworking families. I'll continue to advocate for such legislation moving forward.



Kansas City Loses an Iconic Leader with the Passing of Mayor Richard Berkley



Last week, I lost a dear friend and Kansas City lost an iconic leader with the passing of Mayor Richard Berkley. For 12 years as Mayor, and 10 more on the City Council, Dick Berkley offered the calm, collected, and utterly effective leadership that helped transform Kansas City into the major metropolitan area it is today.



From expanding Bartle Hall to the revitalization and economic development of neighborhoods across Kansas City, the impact of Dick Berkley can be felt in every zip code of our great city. While I was proud to honor his legacy through the Berkley Riverfront, we all owe him a debt of gratitude for his lifelong devotion and public service to our community.



There are countless things I could say to honor the memory and legacy of Mayor Berkley--the first Jewish Mayor in Kansas City's history or his Harvard-educated business acumen to name just a few--but in this moment of bitter polarization, I'll always remember his refusal to look at life through a partisan lens. Although he was a Republican, and I a Democrat, I cannot recall a single moment when Mayor Berkley was anything less than helpful, supportive, and committed to the progress and unity of our communities--because that was all that mattered in his eyes. I believe that is something to be treasured, and something that will be sorely missed.



I pray for comfort for the entire Berkley family as they grieve such a monumental loss, and I pray that our community will take the lessons and legacy of Mayor Berkley to be used as a guiding light on our march toward a better future for all of Kansas City. May his memory be our blessing.



Sincerely,



Emanuel Cleaver, II

Member of Congress

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You decide . . .


Right now hottie Sara inspires our latest glimpse at pop culture, community news and top headlines.



Check TKC news gathering . . .Kansas City Lift: Restoration, MAGA Dictatorship & Could Unions Save The K?!?

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Fearing a Royals move, Kansas City-area unions demand Jackson County pursue a sales tax A group of local union leaders sent a letter to the Jackson County Legislature urging them to ensure the Royals and the Chiefs stay in Missouri. Unions are worried that floundering negotiations with the team and infighting in the county will cause workers to lose out on jobs and fair wages.

Testing Solution Against KCMO Undefeated Icon

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'Bring their best ideas': UMKC seeks proposals for Epperson House The University of Missouri-Kansas City reissued a formal request for proposals for ideas on how to repurpose the Epperson House, which has long sat vacant on the school's campus.

Sauced Cowtown

Legacy Exposed

Prohibitions' end: It's been 90 years since the era that shaped Kansas City's modern identity The speakeasies that arose during the Prohibition era left a permanent impact on Kansas City

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Sadly, we live in an era of endless government borrowing and local politicos leveraging risky economic schemes in order to cater the whims of developers.



And so . . . The leader of a local municipality deserves credit for calling the cycle of debt . . . Check-it:



Unified Government Mayor/CEO Tyrone Garner held his State of the Government address Tuesday at Memorial Hall, speaking at the rotary club yearend luncheon.



"The economic budgetary health outlook for the Unified Government is not good and reflects a potential negative fund balance in the years of 2026-2028," he said during his speech.



Garner said it won't be long before projected expenses outpace projected revenues, setting things up for a budget in the red.



"It is with great regret that I inform you today of the obvious," he continued at the podium. "That the state of your Unified Government in Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, is not at its best."





Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .
An ongoing conversation got even more heated this week . . . Here are the basics of the exchange as many people of faith continue to argue against suspected government persecution . . . Check-it:



The House Judiciary Committee and the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government learned at least one undercover FBI agent interviewed at least one priest and one choir director affiliated with a Catholic church in Richmond, Virginia, according to a report obtained by Fox News. The committee said the memo relied on a single investigation in the Richmond Field Offices area of responsibility in which the subject self-described as a radical-traditionalist Catholic.



Missouri Senator Josh Hawley asked how many parishes have been questioned by FBI agents.



Look, senator. We do not and will not conduct investigations based on anybodys exercise of their constitutionally protected right, FBI Director Christopher Wray said.



You have done it so, and your memo explicitly asks for it, the senator said. Your memo labels traditional Catholics as racially and ethnically motivated violent extremists in need of investigation! You have a list of churches, a list in the memo. Youve repeatedly said, We dont target churches. Theyre listed in the memo! So how many other parishes have you gone to to talk to choir directors for heavens sake?



As Ive  Wray began.



Do you know the answer to that question? Hawley interrupted.



No, I dont know the answer to that question. But I can tell you that we dont investigate people for their exercise of their constitutionally protected religious expression, Wray said. It was in a particular intelligence product. It was something as soon as I saw it, I was aghast. I had it withdrawn.



You were aghast? Hawley said.



Yes, I was. Yes sir, he said.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley blows up at FBI Director Christopher Wray over anti-Catholic memo | Fox News Video Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., got into a heated exchange with FBI Director Christopher Wray over the infamous FBI memo that categorized certain Catholics as potential domestic terrorists.

Josh Hawley Tears Into Christopher Wray For Allegedly Going After Catholics Josh Hawley demanded to know why Christopher Wray still hasn't fired anyone for "targeting Catholics" in the FBI's effort to root out domestic terrorists.

Sen. Josh Hawley, Christopher Wray Get Into Near Shouting Match Over Memo Targeting Traditional Catholics Republican Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley got into a near shouting match with FBI Director Christopher Wray over the bureau's memo targeting traditional Catholics.

Developing . . .
Toronto Police Service has arrested and charged three people with gun-related offences in the city.

Police say they arrested an 18-year-old man, a 37-year-old woman and a 16-year-old female youth in connection with a gun investigation in the Woodbine Avenue and Kingston Road area on Dec. 1.

Police, in a Dec. 4 news release, said at the time of the arrests, officers recovered a loaded 9 mm semi-automatic handgun. Following the incident, police said a search warrant was executed in the Woodbine Avenue and Kingston Road area, and items of evidentiary value were located and seized.

The three suspects, who were scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 3, all face gun-related charges, including possession of a loaded prohibited or restricted firearm.
The Etobicoke Coat of Arms which has drawn fire and called racist is one step closer to removal from the Etobicoke Civic Centre.

Toronto councillors voted at the Dec. 5 executive committee meeting to receive the city managers staff report on the coat of arms, which comes in response to Etobicoke Centre Coun. Stephen Holydays report request.

The Etobicoke Coat of Arms depicts an Indigenous man on the left and European explorer Etienne Brule on the right. Both figures are kneeling. The word tradition appears under the Indigenous man, the name Etobicoke in the middle, and the word progress beneath Brule.

The short, four-page report states concerns about the Etobicoke Coat of Arms, displayed in the Etobicoke council chambers and on the transom above a committee room door, have been raised by city staff and the public since 2018.

These concerns relate to the use of the stereotypical and offensive Indigenous imagery and language in the Coat of Arms, the four-page staff report reads.

The Nov. 21 report further states the city taking steps toward removal of the Etobicoke Coat of Arms aligns with the Citys commitments to truth, justice, and reconciliation in the (citys) Reconciliation Action Plan 2022-2032 and is important for creating a safe and inclusive working environment for City staff, free of harmful imagery.

The committee agreed and received the report.

Davenport Coun. Alejandro Bravo said councillors need to meet their obligations to the Toronto City Council-approved Reconciliation Action Plan.

UNDRIP (United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples) is the law of the land, Bravo said. The Truth and Reconciliation Commissions report should be guiding our work. The City of Toronto has done excellent work to adopt a reconciliation plan just in the last year. The plans point of vision is that we have obligations to Indigenous people.

Bravo took exception to Holydays photo of the symbol of a medicine wheel that is part of the Toronto sign at Nathan Philips Square in his presentation to committee.

To compare symbols that were found to be hurtful that were made without Indigenous people, without their participation, without naming their nation, without understanding their context, without valuing their history, their profound history on this land, is not the same as the medicine wheel thats outside of (Toronto City Hall), which was done in relationship with Indigenous people, Bravo said. I think conflating those two is really problematic.

Holyday presented committee photos of source documents, including original artist sketches of the coat of arms, he researched at the Toronto Archives, which show only the community name Etobicoke beneath the two figures.

Holyday argued the scrolls with the words tradition and progress dont necessarily relate to the bearers above them.

One concern is that the words are somehow linked to the supporters. But if you find the sketch, the original one, youll see the motto is not filled out, Holyday said. Youll see different versions of the various characters. You can find out the Indigenous individual on the coat of arm is an Ojibwa chief.

The Etobicoke councillor also presented images of other governments coat of arms depicting Indigenous people, including the City of Brantford and the provinces of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland.

Indigenous symbols are nothing new and nothing old, he said.

Holyday added the coat of arms was Etobicoke trying to honour some of the history of the land in its coat of arms and here we are putting it away. I think its bigger than the small report thats here. And I think decisions like this belong with council as opposed to staff.

City manager Paul Johnson said the decision to remove the coat of arms was part of a broad review across the city looking at imagery and names.

We have a team of people looking at it, and we work with folks in the Indigenous community and other experts in imagery to understand what it is thats offensive, Johnson said in response to Holydays questions. We have over the number of years received a number of complaints by staff and the community about the imagery.

Deputy Mayor for the west area of the city and Etobicoke-Lakeshore Coun. Amber Morley agreed with Bravo and moved the motion to receive the city managers report.

For us to look back on history and times when we were making decisions without the inclusion of communities, representing communities in ways that did not have their consent and to continue to perpetuate a narrative through imagery, through words  If we hope to live in a better world, we really do need to take these commitments  to reconciliation, to truth, to justice for people  very seriously, Morley said. We need to walk in a good way as weve all committed to do.
Muamar Orabi, the general director of the independent Palestinian news organization Wattan Media Network, spoke to Ahram Online and made the case for the value of independent media that is unabashedly biased towards the concerns and worries of its people rather than the narrow interests of any one political power.

As Israeli violence in Gaza resumes, Palestinian journalists on the ground are struggling to get the job done. Not just by dodging the bombs and destruction, the digital blackouts, the lack of basic needs, and the toll on their sanity. Now, even their salaries and the money needed to replace equipment are at risk.

This is at a time when the international community has acknowledged that verification and on-the-ground reporting are key to understanding Gaza.

International Media Support (IMS)  one of the few media development organizations to take a clear stance in support of independent Palestinian journalists  published this week: What we have feared is beginning to happen: over the weekend, prominent Gaza journalists shared their increasing desperation. They are exhausted and distressed. After two months of covering death and destruction, the risk that burnout will force them to give up their crucial work is very real.

On Saturday, Gazan photojournalist Motaz Azaiza wrote: The phase of risking your life to show whats happening is now over and the phase of trying to survive has started".

On Monday, journalist and TV reporter in Gaza Hind Khoudary tweeted: I do not feel that staying alive has any meaning anymore.

At the ARIJ16 Conference in Amman this week, Muamar Orabi, the general director of Wattan Media Network, could be seen jostling in one meeting after the next, wrapped tightly in his keffiyeh, trying to comprehend the ramifications of the decision of several European states, namely Austria, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Sweden and Switzerland, as well as the European Commission to suspend or review their funding to Palestinian and Israeli civil society organizations due to unfounded allegations of diversion of funding to terrorist organizations.

He spoke to Fatemah Farag from Ahram Online with clarity and a resolve of purpose about the world that is crashing around him.

Fatemah Farag: What is Wattan and why  over 20 years since you founded the organization - do you think it is still important today?

Muamar Orabi: Wattan Media Network is an award-winning independent media organization based in Ramallah and covering the West Bank and Gaza. We have always believed in the importance of the existence of an independent and alternative voice for Palestinians. A voice that is civic-minded, secular, and independent. What I mean by independent is that it is a voice that does not follow any political party. It is a voice that is an alternative to the official Palestinian media. We are not unbiased though and we state our bias clearly: we are biased to the concerns and worries of our people. This is why we have produced solutions journalism and constructive media content over the years.

[A tenant of media development programs is that a well-functioning media sector, quality journalism, and well-informed citizens are essential for sustainable political, social, and economic development]

FF: Can you describe what it has been like to work under occupation and also within a highly polarized Palestinian context?

MO: The situation in Palestine has always been complex. There is Israeli occupation and then under that are the risks posed by both the Palestinian Authority and Hamas. Not to equate the occupation with Hamas or the Authority but we often are confronted by three different forms of authority who are not sympathetic to freedom of the press. Independent Palestinian journalists never know if the next day is the day they get arrested.

Our journalists are constantly suffering the bind: on the one hand, to be neutral and independent and on the other hand, they cannot disassociate themselves from the pain and hurt suffered by their society. We suffer disillusionment often. And then there is the massive cruelty reflected in the number of journalists killed by Israel in the past few weeks  numbers that exceed those killed in the Second World War in six years. [To date, 70+ journalists have been killed in Gaza.] So these big numbers amplify and highlight what we have been suffering all along under occupation.

Independent Palestinian journalists pay a big price for doing their job. Our offices were shut down by the Israelis in 2002, they stormed into our building in 2012 and took all of our equipment, which they never returned. And then there is the harassment and arrests  tens and tens over the years. Journalists can be held in detention for years and then released without explanation or due process. [According to the ME Monitor, 130 Palestinian journalists were detained by Israel in 2022 alone and, according to RSF, 14 journalists were by Israel in November in the West Bank alone.]

The situation since 7 October is being documented  death, injury, arrest, suffering the mental cost of covering thousands dying, loss of families and loved ones not to mention homes. Journalists can hardly sleep for fear of not living to wake up.

FF: Why are you losing funds now  even as your role is probably more critical than it has ever been?

MO: We are not only the victims of occupation but also victims of those donors who have stopped supporting independent media and journalists in Palestine. Maybe they think that by doing this they can relieve themselves of their holocaust guilt even though we  the Palestinian people  have been the victims of this guilt time and time again.

We do not want them [donors/Western government] to give us arms  as they have given in Ukraine  to defend ourselves. We are just asking them to treat us as human beings. We want them to be consistent with the values they have been preaching to us for years. This [withdrawal of support] by some donors is a great scandal and, in my opinion, it uncovers a double standard. They tell us to pressure our governments but they [some media development programmes] will not pressure their governments to do what is right. Instead, they disrespect their contracts, processes, and systems and refrain from paying the salaries of journalists who are working 24 hours a day.

[In a statement released after this interview and signed by over 99 civil society organizations from across the globe stated: Requiring organizations to adhere to certain political lines that represent the political positions of donor states infringes upon and restricts their freedom of expression. In suspending all funding development funding to Palestine pending a review, Sweden has outlined also that it will not provide future development funding to actors who do not condemn Hamas.

Finally, the credibility of European governments approaches to the current crisis in Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel has already been damaged by their restrictions on the rights to freedom of expression and assembly for people and groups protesting the Israeli authorities violations of International Humanitarian law and potential war crimes against Palestinians in Gaza. Many European states are not only failing to call out Israeli Grave Breaches of International Humanitarian Law or to hold all parties who are in violation to account, but are also taking actions that result in curbing freedom of expression and assembly in Europe, and undermining civic space and protections of human rights in Israel and the OPT through suspension of support for local human rights actors.]

FF: What are the implications for the future of cooperation and the media development sector?

MO: I think the events that have unfolded since 7 October have been a big lesson for us. They have taught us not to stand with donors who just say empty slogans and are only concerned with business as usual. They have abandoned us in a most dire time of need.

But I am really afraid that if the independent media sector is allowed to crash a vacuum will be created that can only be filled with terrible things. We saw militia-supported media filling in the void in Libya, Iraq, and Syria  that would be a terrible mistake to repeat.

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Two suspects have been identified in connection with a stabbing that left an off-duty officer in her 30s with serious injuries.

Suspect #1 has been identified as Preston Calladine, 48, of Toronto, who is wanted for 11 charges including robbery with a weapon, aggravated assault on a peace officer, assault with a weapon, three counts of possession of property obtained by crime and two counts of failure to comply with a probation order.

A second suspect, Jeremy Ruscitti, 38 of Toronto, was arrested, investigated and released with no charges.

Suspect #4 has been identified as Jim Dimce Kaluzovski, 47, of Keswick, who is wanted for robbery with a weapon, aggravated assault on a peace officer and assault with a weapon, among eight total charges.

An off-duty police officer has been taken to a hospital after being assaulted with a weapon in Toronto.

The incident took place at around 11:30 a.m. in the area of Progress Avenue and 401 East ramp, the Toronto Police Service said Wednesday, Dec. 6 on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Police say three suspects were allegedly robbing a retail store when the officer intervened.

The suspects then fled the area in a grey-coloured Toyota Sienna minivan, police said.

Police say all three suspects are men. The first suspect was described as being six feet tall. He has a medium build and was wearing black pants and boots.

The second suspect was wearing a black mask, blue jeans and a black hoodie.

The third person was wearing grey cargo pants and a camo jacket, according to police.
Robinson Huron Treaty lawyers are optimistic about the annuities case after the Supreme Court of Canada heard the government of Ontarios appeal to the decision made by the Ontario Court of Appeal on Nov. 7 and 8.

It is impossible to predict how the court will rule; but from the questions and reactions of the judges, the (Robinson Huron Treaty) lawyers think the case went very well for the Anishinaabe, the Robinson Huron Treaty Litigation Fund wrote in a news release issued Dec. 1.

Twenty-one First Nations have been in litigation with the governments of Ontario and Canada for breach of treaty. Signed back in 1850, the Robinson Huron Treaty contained an augmentation clause that would see the annuity increased in future years as wealth was increasingly extracted from the territory.

Despite the billions generated in harvested resources, the annuity increased once in 1875 from approximately $1.70 per person to $4 per person where it remains today.

In 2018, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice found that the Crown was obligated to increase the annuity. The province appealed the decision three years later to the Ontario Court of Appeal, which upheld the findings from the lower court. The matter was then brought to Canadas top court.

Ontario was trying to argue that fulfilling the augmentation promise should be left to the discretion and honour of the Crown. However, Ontarios lawyer was challenged by the judges as to why the Crown has failed to fulfil the treaty promise over the last 160 years, read the release.

The Supreme Court of Canada is expected to issue its decision in the spring of 2024. This decision will not affect the out-of-court $5-billion settlement from both Canada and Ontario for past annuities announced in June.

The top courts ruling does, however, have the potential to affect future annuities negotiations that have yet to begin.

In the update to beneficiaries, the Robinson Huron Treaty Litigation Fund said Canada and Ontario were nearing completion of their internal processes for the $10-billion settlement agreement. Signatures were expected to hit the settlement before the end of December 2023 or January 2024.

Correction  Dec. 12, 2023: This story has been updated from a previous version that misstated the settlement amount for past annuities.
A man has been arrested and no injuries were reported following an alleged shooting on Monday afternoon, say Toronto police.

Officers responded to the area of Don Mills Road and Gateway Boulevard around 4:08 p.m. on Dec. 4 for reports of a shooting, say police.

A 23-year-old man was arrested as part of the investigation, but police provided no further details about the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to call 416-808-5500.
Several products are being pulled from shelves at some of Canada's big-name stores and Health Canada is concerned about the shoppers who have already purchased them.

Several incidents have already been reported to health and safety officials.

One of the recalls involves Black Diamond Equipment Recon LT Avalanche Transceiver, sold at Canadian Tire and other stores. The devices are worn by skiers/snowboarders/snowmobilers to aid in search and rescue should they or their partners become buried in an avalanche, and the transceiver was sold as a standalone unit and as part of two avalanche safety sets with shovels, Health Canada said in its recall warning.

The BD ALPINE AVY SAFETY SET (SKU #BD1510100000ALL1 and UPC #793661512837), the BD RECON LT AVY SAFETY SET (SKU #BD1510110000ALL1 and UPC #793661518532) and BD RECON LT BEACON (SKU #BD1510070000ALL1 and UPC #793661495475) are included in this recall.

The recalled transceivers can unexpectedly enter search mode despite the rotary switch being in its send position, Health Canada said in its warning, resulting in the transceiver failing to transmit a signal, which can cause delayed search and rescue operations in the case of an avalanche.

As of April 11, the company has received no reports of incidents or injuries in Canada. In the United States, the company has received seven reports of product malfunction and no reports of injuries.

The company reported that 250 units of the affected product were sold in Canada and 1,550 were sold in the United States from August 2021 to April 2023.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled transceiver and follow the instructions on the Black Diamond website to update the firmware or receive a full refund, the warning states.

For more information, consumers can contact Black Diamond Equipment by telephone toll-free at 1-866-306-0865 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. MT Monday through Friday, by email or visit the company website.

Another recall involves Topdeal Baby Feeding Nursing Pillow, Portable Breast Feeding Pillows, with two curved handles, for kids, sold through Walmart Marketplace.

The product is designed to allow the baby to self-feed, according to Health Canada, and can be identified with the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN): 09331526073959.

Products that position infant feeding bottles and enable infants to feed themselves without supervision are prohibited by law in Canada. Such products can result in infants choking on or aspirating the feeding liquid, Health Canada said in its recall warning. Unattended infant feeding practices are discouraged by Health Canada and Canadian professional medical associations.

As of Oct. 23, the company has received no reports of incidents or injuries in Canada. The company reported that 89 units of the affected products were sold in Canada from January 2022 to September 2022.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled nursing pillow and dispose of the product, Health Canada said.

For more information, consumers can contact Qian Sheng Zhuang by email at gzblh@outlook.com.

Another recall involves a generator sold at Costco.

The A-iPower Portable Dual Fuel Generator, model GXS7100iRDC (Costco Item #1758140), sold on Costco.ca between Sept. 21 and Nov. 15, is being recalled due to a missing connection between the generator frame and one conductor of the output circuit, Costco said in its important recall notice.

This is a requirement for the Canadian Standards Associations CSA C22.2 No. 100 safety standard and could pose a safety/electrical hazard, the warning states. Please stop using the generator.

To obtain a full refund, you may return it to Costco or call 1-888-426-7826 to arrange a pickup.

A-iPower has not received any reports of consumer incidents or injuries related to the use of this generator.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and ask you to please pass this information along to anyone to whom this generator may have been given, Costco added.

As of Nov. 21, 2023, the company has received no reports of incidents or injuries in Canada.

Consumers should immediately unplug the recalled Christmas tree and return it to a local The Home Depot Canada store for a full refund, the warning states.

For more information, consumers can contact Home Depot Canada by telephone at 1-800-628-0525, Monday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Canadian Armed Forces members can enjoy a free double-double or any other hot beverage at Tim Hortons restaurants across Canada on Saturday, Nov. 11, in recognition of Remembrance Day.

The ubiquitous restaurant chain, with more than 4,000 Canadian locations, is offering veterans and Canadian Armed Forces members  either in uniform or showing appropriate identification  a free hot beverage of their choice, in any size.

"Each year, Tim Hortons and our restaurant owners across Canada pause to reflect on the sacrifices that so many veterans and Canadian Armed Forces members have made for Canada, Tim Hortons president Axel Schwan said in a news release. "We look forward to greeting veterans and Canadian Armed Forces members on Nov. 11, thanking them for their service and offering them a free hot beverage as a small token of our gratitude."

In related news, provincial transit agency Metrolinx is continuing an annual tradition of offering complimentary service for veterans and Canadian Armed Forces members on Remembrance Day.

This Saturday, Nov. 11, veterans can ride the GO and UP Express transit network free of charge. The offer is available to veterans, CAF members (and one companion), as well as family members of deceased veterans.

When travelling on Nov. 11, eligible passengers are asked to carry something identifiable, like a medal, beret, blazer, uniform or Veterans Service Card.
Police and a city councillor are holding a town hall meeting in North York to discuss safety in the Jewish community amid a sharp rise in anti-Semitic occurrences in Toronto.

The meeting, hosted by York Centre Coun. James Pasternak and the Toronto Police Service, will be held 7 p.m. Tuesday (Dec. 5) at Beth Emeth Bais Yehuda Synagogue at 155 Wilmington Ave.

Those wishing to attend are asked to register at councillor_pasternak@toronto.ca.

The event is being billed as an important discussion with officers about keeping the community safe.

The ongoing war in Gaza has led to a concerning rise in hate crimes, according to Toronto police.

A Nov. 23 police news release said there were 78 hate crimes reported in Toronto between Oct. 7 and Nov. 20, compared to 37 reported during the same period last year. Forty-nine per cent of the hate crimes reported this year between Oct. 7 and Nov. 20 were anti-Semitic.

The police service has boosted the size of its hate crime unit from six officers to a team of 21 investigators and eight special constables in response to the disturbing trend.

The impact of crime motivated by hate is far-reaching, and extends beyond the physical and emotional trauma suffered by the victim, but affecting all members of the targeted community, police chief Myron Demkiw said in the Nov. 23 release. I want to be clear  the Toronto Police Service will not allow the people of our city to be intimated. Violence and hateful acts will not be tolerated. The service and our Hate Crime Unit will aggressively pursue any suspected incidents of hate-motivated behaviour.

Of the 78 hate crimes reported between Oct. 7 and Nov. 20, a total of 38 were anti-Semitic occurrences while 17 were anti-Muslim, anti-Palestinian and anti-Arab, according to police.
Toronto police are asking for the publics help to identify a man they describe as vulnerable.

According to police, officers interacted with a man who was unable to identify himself in the Queen Street East and Knox Avenue area around 12:15 a.m. on Dec. 4.

The man is 25-years-old, five-foot-seven with a thin build and brown hair. He was wearing a Toronto Maple Leaf jersey, black pants and running shoes.

Investigators are looking to identify this male to put the minds at ease of any concerned family or friends, said police.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5500.
A man who was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries following a crash in Scarborough Tuesday has died, said Toronto police on X.

Police stated that the victim was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Around 1 p.m. Tuesday, Toronto police said that the two-vehicle collision took place in the area of Ellesmere Road and McCowan Road.

Following the crash, police were alerting commuters about road closures.

Police said eastbound Ellesmere Road was blocked at McCowan Road, westbound Ellesmere Road is blocked at Parkington Crescent, and Grangeway Avenue is blocked at Ellesmere Road.

Police said officers were in the area assisting commuters with traffic direction.

Police said this was an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information related to the fatal crash can call 416-808-1900.

**Editor's Note: The story was updated at 4:53 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 5, to indicate a person is dead following the Tuesday afternoon crash.
Two people were seriously injured in Toronto on Tuesday evening after an SUV allegedly trying to flee from Ontario Provincial Police struck a pair of pedestrians following a collision with another vehicle, says the Special Investigations Unit.

According to the SIU, two OPP officers in police vehicles had their emergency lights activated as they travelled southbound on Keele Street, near Highway 401, while en route to a call around 11:30 p.m. on Dec. 5.

The provincial police watchdog said the driver of an SUV travelling in front of the OPP cruisers appeared to flee and hit a vehicle travelling eastbound on the 401 ramp.

The driver of the SUV then struck two pedestrians who were crossing Keele Street, said the SIU.

Both pedestrians, a 24-year-old woman and a 53-year-old man, were taken to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Toronto police say officers responded to reports of a collision near Keele Street and Falstaff Avenue around 11 p.m. after two vehicles were involved in an accident and then one of the vehicles struck two pedestrians.

One of the drivers then fled on foot, said Toronto police.

The Toronto force did not provide an update on the condition of the pedestrians on Wednesday morning and said its officers are assisting OPP with the investigation. Further questions were referred to provincial police.

According to OPP, officers were responding to a call in the area of Keele Street and Highway 401 around 11 p.m. when an interaction with several vehicles and pedestrians occurred unrelated to the original call, tweeted Sgt. Kerry Schmidt.

The (Special Investigations Unit) have invoked their mandate, added OPP.

The Special Investigations Unit is an independent civilian agency that looks into incident involving police where there has been death, serious injury or allegations of sexual assault.

Three SIU investigators and two forensic investigators have been assigned to the case.

The SIU is urging anyone who may have information about this investigation, including video or photos, to contact the lead investigator at 1-800-787-8529 or online at siu.on.ca/en/appeals.php.
Last week, a kangaroo  which escaped from its handlers when they made a brief stop at the Oshawa Zoo  spent several days on the run before being captured by Durham Police early Monday morning.

The female kangaroo, named Nathan, was brought back to Oshawa Zoo before continuing on her journey to Quebec.

Watch the video of police apprehending the escaped kangaroo.

Let us take you back to other escaped animal stories from the past several years:

Wild African cat in Bonnechere Valley

A recent story from when the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) had to issue a public safety warning after an African serval cat escaped its sanctuary on Oct. 25.

The long-limbed wild feline is a nocturnal hunter that preys on birds and small mammals and presents a danger to mid-sized livestock and pets.

Ikea monkey

Perhaps the most famous entry on this list, when a small, Japanese rhesus macaque wearing a tiny jacket and diaper was spotted in an upper parking garage at an Ikea in North Toronto in 2012.

Darwin had escaped from a locked crate in his owner's vehicle and was eventually rounded up by Toronto Animal Services. Darwins breed is illegal in Ontario and his owner was fined $240 under the Toronto Municipal Code for keeping a prohibited animal and was asked to surrender the monkey.

Llamas on the loose

Another recent story from November involved a trio of llamas which escaped their pen after it had been accidentally left open. They were loose in The Blue Mountains for almost 10 days.

Two of the llamas, brothers Lluka and Todd, were found within a week, but their other brother, Llewis, played harder to get and lasted a few more days before being recaptured.

The Peacock King of Churchill Park

Known by many monikers, including Steve, Frank and Pete, a former sanctuary peacock has made himself at home in the Churchill Park area of Cambridge.

Steve/Frank/Pete and other peacocks were staples at the Churchill Park sanctuary and while two were moved to a different location, Steve was a holdout but escaped and has never returned. He has been seen drinking water from bird baths and nestling beside flowers and other plants and in the shade on some front lawns.

See ya later, alligator

In 2012, the owners of a Brampton home on Elliott Street got a rather unique surprise when they discovered a live, three-foot-long alligator in their backyard.

The homeowners called Brampton Animal Control whose staff used a catch-pull to capture it, a device normally used to capture aggressive dogs.

Looking for love

Back in October, Alice the Dexter cow escaped her Burlington-area farm. Her owner immediately put out the word on social media and within a few hours, Alice was found about 11 kilometres away at a different farm on Concession Road 8.

Alices escape gave her owner some insight into why she may have taken off. Alice will be two years old in January and it is believed she was looking for a bull to have a calf with. Apparently, her escape was made easier by a weakness in her enclosure.

Bear-ly bothering anyone

Two years ago, Halton Regional Police had to make residents aware of a black bear sighting in Halton Hills. However, the bear was not acting in an aggressive manner and was last seen sauntering back into the woods.

A bear-y close call

All the way back in 2007, a 300-pound Syrian brown bear named Willy escaped his enclosure at Zooz, now known as Safari Niagara, by burrowing under the fence.

Willy was on the run for more than 12 hours and had a close interaction with a Stevensville resident and her dogs before he was located and sedated by Niagara Regional Police.
Cyprus says a number of countries have offered to store humanitarian assistance in the east Mediterranean island nation as part of a plan to ship the aid to Gaza via a maritime corridor.

The countries include the U.K., which last week sent humanitarian aid that is being stored at Larnaca port, from where ships will depart for Gaza once conditions on the ground in the territory allow for it, government spokesperson Constantinos Letymbiotis said Wednesday.

He said the U.K. has also offered a shallow-draft ship capable of approaching Gazas shoreline, where it would be able to offload the aid without the need for port facilities required by large vessels.

Earlier this week, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides said he held talks with his Egyptian counterpart, Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, and Jordans King Abdullah II, who reaffirmed their support for the aid corridor. Israel has also backed the plan but has given no indication yet when the aid could begin to flow.

Last month, Christodoulides told The Associated Press that the proposed maritime corridor of about 230 miles (370 kilometers) is the only one currently being discussed on an international level as a feasible way to significantly supplement the trickle of aid getting into the enclave through Egypts Rafah border checkpoint.

On Tuesday, the Egyptian president affirmed Egypt's full readiness to receive and coordinate all international aid directed to the Gaza Strip, during a meeting with his Cypriot counterpart in Cairo.

Since mid-October, Egypt has designated North Sinai's El-Arish International Airport for receiving international humanitarian aid to be delivered to Gaza.

El-Arish city, which is North Sinai's capital, lies some 50 kilometers from the Rafah border crossing.

As many as 239 planes with aid for Gaza have been received at El-Arish airport since 21 October and until 29 November, according to previous remarks by Chairman of Egypts State Information Service (SIS) Diaa Rashwan.

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Septuagenarian writer Roberta Rich usually begins a project with a visual image. For her latest novel, she said, I was thinking about a small child, peering through a cows ribs as if they were venetian blinds, wondering what she would see through those ribs. Sounds strange?

As a writer you never know where inspiration will come from. Many years ago, Rich read a short story by Annie Proulx in which a grown male sheltered inside the carcass of a steer in order to survive a harsh South Dakota windstorm. That image stuck with her and made its way into the opening of her fourth novel, "The Jazz Club Spy." In Richs story, though, its a five-year-old girl curled inside what remains of Laska, her familys cow, where shes hiding from a violent Cossack raid on her little Russian village. Rich had been reading about pogroms in early 1900s Russia, because shes always been interested in Jewish history. That research combined with the image became kind of the sand in the shell that led to the pearl.

The number one bestselling Canadian novelist, whose debut  when she was sixty-five, after a long career as a lawyer  "The Midwife of Venice" sold to an impressive eighteen countries and translated into many languages, spoke to the Star recently by phone from her home in Vancouver about her new book and bringing her experience to her writing.

"Law, especially litigation, teaches you persistence, and taking the long view of a case," she says. "The law also often involves a lot of research and teaches you to love libraries. Family law certainly gives insight into the workings of the human heart."

Publishing later in life, she says, is no surprise for her. "I am a Capricorn, and if you believe in such things you know that Capricorns are notoriously late bloomers. I have pretty much been late at everything: late to finish university, late to finish law school, late to have a baby."

Unlike Ann Patchett, who recently shared with the Star that she may spend years figuring out a plot in her head before she puts anything down on the page, Rich said her own process is very discombobulated. What I tend to do is write scenes that are interesting to me or what I feel passionate about. Then I will write them more or less in sequence. I like to figure things out as I go along, but its time consuming. Ive tried different methods, but this is the one that seems to be the way I do it.

Sometimes she frustrates herself, Rich said, by going off in tangents into cul de sacs, writing myself into a dead end, wondering what does this have to do with anything? Unsurprisingly, the first thing my editor does when she gets my manuscript is to chop off about ten thousand words to serve the story.

Her protagonist, Giddy Brodsky, immigrates to New York City with her parents, fleeing the deadly pogrom in 1920. In the present of the novel, its 1939 and twenty-four-year-old Giddy is a cigarette girl at Sids Paradise, a Midtown Manhattan jazz club patronized by wannabe gangsters and plenty of fur coat-wearing Russian emigres with cash to splash about.

Rich said she was fascinated how someone like Giddy, who lived in a tenement, had a dysfunctional family, had no formal education and had survived horrific childhood trauma, could keep getting up and face the world with pluck and determination. Giddy hopes for a better life, especially for her younger brother Arnold, a progressive who supports womens rights and attends Russian-born Jewish political activist Emma Goldmans lectures about defeating fascism. He also speaks out against the rampant antisemitism of the German American Bund, the Nazi-loving organization of German Americans.

For research, Rich visited both the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, and the Tenement Museum on New York Citys Lower East Side, places that play central roles in the lives of her characters. Rich said, Im very particular about getting the facts right and I try to stay as historically accurate as I possibly can because I think thats the writers responsibility. If I cant make the facts work quite as I would like them to, I usually include something in the Authors Note. In this case it involves a letter from the British Union of Fascists about the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact signed August 23, 1939, a non-aggression agreement signed by Nazi Germany and Russia, the existence of which the characters would not have known.

Part of getting the facts right for the time in "The Jazz Club Spy" includes using the songs of Cole Porter and mentioning Ethel Merman starring in "Anything Goes" on Broadway. Rich is also keen to stick to the language of the era, she said, and in this case that also means using Yiddish expressions since Giddys mother only speaks Yiddish, though Giddy herself speaks English, Russian, Yiddish, Polish and a little Italian: shes a survivor dreaming of a future as a shop owner creating a beauty line for working girls like herself.

One of the things that appeals to Rich about historical fiction is that it gives you the chance to research topics that youre interested in. In this case, she was keen to explore both PTSD (how the body remembers trauma) and the notion of second sight  the idea that someone can see into the future or communicate with the dead. Rich said, Im interested when something terrible happens and you think its over, but then something coincidental happens and taps you on the shoulder and all of a sudden youre thrown back to a memory that you very much wanted to put behind you and forget. Hattie, Giddys best friend and another poor Russian immigrant, is the popular clairvoyant at the jazz club, and she may either have a gift or be a gifted fake like so many others pretending to be something that theyre not at Sids Paradise.

Roberta Rich is delighted to have another book launching at age 77.

"Was getting published a thrill at 65 a thrill? You bet. I remember sitting in the audience at so many book readings, wanting to be the one in behind that lectern so badly I could taste the fillings in my teeth. And now that I have achieved that elusive status of published author, I am enjoying every minute. And who knows?? I may have another book published when Im 80 or 90."
In the far north of Canada, a group known as the Inuit have lived for thousands of years. Their culture, closely linked with the tough Arctic environment, shows us a way of life formed by snow and ice. When you learn about Inuit culture, you see that their traditions and daily life are shaped by the cold and often hard conditions they deal with every day.

One of the most noticeable things about Inuit culture is its adaptiveness. For many years, the Inuit have learned skills and knowledge that are very important for living in the Arctic. They know how to build igloos for shelter and are experts at hunting on ice. This smart thinking shows how strong humans can be.

Exploring Inuit Culture: Unique Traditions and Practices

When you explore Inuit culture, you find many interesting facts about their traditions and practices that have lasted centuries in the cold Canadian Arctic. The Inuit people, with their strong connection to nature and the environment, have created an interesting and different culture. Here are some of them.

Traditional Arts, Crafts, and Music in Inuit Culture

Inuit culture in the Canadian Arctic is known for its rich arts, crafts, and music. This part of their culture shows us their history and everyday life. Detailed carvings made from whalebone or antlers show animals and scenes from nature. These carvings show artistic skill and tell stories about the land and its people.

The Inuit are also skilled in sewing and making clothes. According to the Canadian Museum of History, they use materials like sealskin to make clothes that work well in the cold Arctic weather. These clothes are useful and decorated with detailed patterns and symbols that are important in their culture.

Read Also: What Makes Biodiversity in Costa Rica So Incredible?

Music is very important in Inuit culture. Traditional songs are often played during dances and ceremonies, with drums made from animal skins. The music is closely linked to the Inuit's relationship with nature and echoes the sounds of the environment, like the wind and the waves.

Impact of the Environment on Daily Life and Traditions

The tough but beautiful Arctic environment greatly affects Inuit culture. Their way of life is closely linked to the land and sea. Hunting and fishing are important to their cultural identity, not just survival methods. The Inuit have created special methods and tools for hunting, like the kayak and the harpoon, showing their deep understanding of the environment.

Modern Influences and the Preservation of Inuit Heritage

Inuit culture has had to balance old traditions with new influences in recent years. New technology and global culture have brought changes to the Arctic. But, there is a strong effort in Inuit communities to keep their heritage alive.

Keeping the Inuit language alive through education and media is key to their cultural identity. Inuit artists and musicians mix traditional and modern styles, creating new ways to express themselves that honor their heritage and connect with the wider world.

Inuit culture shows the strength and flexibility of its people. Despite challenges, the Inuit are thriving, keeping their rich traditions alive while dealing with the modern world. Their culture gives us a special view based on a strong connection to the land and a sense of community.

Related Article: What You Need to Know About Customs and Traditions in Finland
The "Digital Skills for Green Tourism Enterprises" workshop in Hue City, Vietnam, organized by VNAT and ASEAN - Japan Center, celebrates 50 years of ASEAN-Japan ties. It focuses on digital skills to enhance green tourism and sustainable practices. This workshop, running until December 8, 2023, aims to boost green tourism and aid economic recovery after COVID-19.

Green Tourism Boosted by Digital Skills Workshop in Vietnam

A significant workshop titled "Digital Skills for Green Tourism Enterprises: Training of Trainers" is underway at the Silk Path Hotel in Hue City, Vietnam. Hosted by the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT), in collaboration with ASEAN - Japan Center, Thua Thien Hue Province, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), this event is part of celebrating 50 years of ASEAN and Japan friendship and cooperation.

The workshop's focus is to equip stakeholders in the tourism industry with the necessary skills for managing and promoting green tourism destinations.

According to the Travel Daily News, this initiative is vital as the latest UNWTO data indicates a potential 90% recovery of international tourism to pre-pandemic levels by year's end. However, recovery in Asia and the Pacific lags, with only 62% of pre-pandemic levels achieved from January to September.

Read Also: Travel Industry Considers Carbon Passports to Limit Emissions

Despite the ASEAN Member States welcoming 43 million international tourists in 2022, this was only a 30% recovery compared to pre-crisis levels. Vietnam, leading in ASEAN, fully opened its borders for tourism in March 2023 and has since seen a significant recovery in the sector.

The workshop, which will run until Dec. 8, covers various aspects of digital marketing, including social networks, search engines, and online travel agencies. It aims to enhance the digital presence of tourism enterprises and governmental officials, ultimately fostering green tourism growth.

Participants from ASEAN countries will exchange digital solution experiences and explore Hue's tourist attractions.

As per the report, the emphasis on digital transformation is crucial for Vietnamese businesses to remain competitive and innovative in the high-stakes international market. This workshop is a strategic step towards strengthening ASEAN's solidarity and identity while promoting green tourism as a cornerstone of sustainable economic development and recovery in the post-COVID-19 era.

ASEAN-Korea Seminar Focuses on Green Tourism

The "Seminar on ASEAN-Korea Tourism 2023" in Seoul brought together policymakers and experts to discuss green tourism on Aug. 23. Hosted by the ASEAN-Korea Centre, it focused on public and private sector roles in sustainable local tourism.

ASEAN-Korea Centre's Kim Hae-yong highlighted tourism's role in regional GDP, employment, and the growing Korean interest in ASEAN's rich culture. Songkane Luangmuninthone, ambassador of Lao PDR, emphasized digital transitions in travel.

Key topics included digital transitions' impact on travel and community engagement's importance in boosting local economies and cultural connections.

The Korea Times reported that ASEAN member states shared their green tourism strategies. Brunei focuses on eco-friendly accommodations and local culture, while Cambodia implements community-based tourism. Indonesia's national development plan includes sustainable tourism, and Lao PDR prioritizes ecotourism, blending natural beauty, cultural heritage, and community engagement.

Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam also presented their sustainable tourism approaches, each with a unique focus on community and environment.

The seminar underscored the importance of green tourism in ASEAN and Korea, discussing sustainable practices and the need for digital transformation in the tourism sector.

Related Article: Global Tourism Set to Reach 90% of Pre-COVID Levels Amid Over-Tourism Challenges
Like A Local Tours to include the James Beard Foundation-backed Market 57 at Pier 57, a culinary, recreational, and educational destination in Hudson River Park that celebrates the vitality of New York City and its diverse local community.



(TRAVPR.COM) USA - December 5th, 2023 | New York, NY - Like A Local Tours today announced the expansion of its renowned Chelsea Market and High Line Food Tour to include the James Beard Foundation-backed Market 57 at Pier 57, a culinary, recreational, and educational destination in Hudson River Park that celebrates the vitality of New York City and its diverse local community. The addition of Market 57 offers visitors and locals alike the opportunity to delve deeper into New York Citys diverse food culture, and explore eateries Nom Wah and The Good Batch, further enriching the gastronomic journey of the tour.

Nom Wah, celebrated for its delectable dim sum offerings and rich heritage, invites tour-goers to savor authentic and time-honored flavors. The restaurants Pier 57 location is an outpost of its century-old Chinatown restaurant, which is widely celebrated as one of the most historic Chinese dining destinations in New York. The Good Batch, known for its cult favorite cookies, ice cream sandwiches, layer cakes, and other baked goods, adds a touch of sweetness to the tour experience.

We are thrilled to expand our Chelsea Market and High Line Food Tour to include Market 57, incorporating Nom Wah and The Good Batch into our culinary exploration, remarked Lauren Beebe, Founder & CEO of Like A Local Tours. Market 57 embodies the diverse and innovative food culture that defines New York City, and we are excited to offer our guests the opportunity to discover and taste the special offerings these establishments have to offer.

Were very excited to join the lineup on the Like A Local tour and provide visitors with a taste of second-generation Chinese American cuisine, said Wilson Tang, CEO of Nom Wah. Nom Wah has been serving New Yorkers and visitors for over a century. We are excited to share our wide assortment of dim sum and dumplings with you all, and we look forward to adding to this unique culinary and cultural experience at our newest location at Market 57.

The Good Batch Bakery is thrilled to welcome guests on Like A Locals food tour through Chelsea Market and Pier 57, said Anna Gordon, founder and head chef of The Good Batch. As a neighborhood bakery, we pride ourselves on providing our locals with the very best cookies, cakes, and (of course) our signature ice cream sandwiches. We look forward to welcoming you all to our community and sharing our love of sweets with locals from around the world!

The Chelsea Market and High Line Food Tour has been a beloved and popular experience, guiding participants through a curated selection of the finest eateries and food spots while offering historic storytelling and sightseeing. The addition of Market 57 amplifies the tour's offerings, allowing attendees to enjoy a wider array of culinary delights.

This expansion reflects Like A Local Tours' commitment to providing an authentic and immersive experience for food enthusiasts and tourists seeking to explore the city's gastronomic gems.

For more information on the expanded Chelsea Market and High Line Food Tour, visit likealocaltours.com

About Like A Local Tours



Like A Local Tours is an award-winning, NYC-based tour company dedicated to providing immersive, cultural, and culinary experiences for tourists and locals alike. Founded in 2014, their guided tours offer a unique and authentic perspective, allowing participants to explore and indulge in the diverse and rich tapestry of food and culture in NYC. Like A Local Tours is a certified M/WBE.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Chelsea Wangberg, Like A Local Tours, chelsea@likealocaltours.com.

About Pier 57

Located within Hudson River Park at West 15th Street, Pier 57 is a year-round community destination that celebrates New York Citys culinary and cultural diversity. It includes plentiful public open and community spaces, both indoors and outdoors, where visitors can gather for a waterfront experience filled with food, art, culture, nature, and more. Its public open and community spaces include a new rooftop park stewarded by Hudson River Park Trust, bookable community classrooms, and public gathering place called the Living Room. The ground floor is home to Market 57, a food hall with 15 vendors, as well as a mission-centered showcase kitchen called PLATFORM by JBF and a rotating chef residency program called Good to Go by JBF, all curated by culinary nonprofit the James Beard Foundation. Market 57 serves as an incubator for local small businesses and food entrepreneurs with a focus on women- and BIPOC-owned food concepts.

Originally built in 1907 as a shipping and storage terminal and reconstructed by the NYC Department of Marine and Aviation in 1952, Pier 57 has become a significant part of NYCs history and earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Thanks to the joint efforts between Hudson River Park Trust, Google, Jamestown, James Beard Foundation, RXR, Youngwoo & Associates, and The Baupost Group, Pier 57 was thoughtfully redeveloped as a community destination with public spaces and a rooftop park, community events and a market hall while adaptively reusing the historic building.
Twenty-one members of Al Jazeera journalist Moamen Al-Sharafi's family, including father, mother and a number of siblings, were killed in an Israeli bombing on a home in the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza.

Moamen said that the occupation forces targeted the house that sheltered his already-displaced family, killing everyone inside.

The last contact Moamen had with his family was a voice message from his mother a few days before her death.

In the message, she expressed how much she missed him and her hope of reuniting with him after the war, added Moamen.

He stressed that what hurts him most is that he was not even able to say goodbye in person to his parents or bury them.

In late October, 19 people from the family of Al Jazeera engineer Muhammad Abu Al-Qumsan, including his father and two of his sisters, were also killed in another massacre in Jabalia.

In the initial days of the war, Wael Al-Dahdouh, the bureau chief of Al Jazeera in Gaza City, was informed on air that his son, daughter, one-and-a-half-month-old grandson, and wife were killed in an Israeli airstrike in the strip on October 25.

The family was killed in an Israeli airstrike targeting a home where they had sought refuge, fleeing from their neighbourhood that had been bombarded.

Covering death or mourning loved ones?

The head of the global organization representing the profession said Monday that it has become a conflict beyond compare with a journalist or media worker killed every day on average in the Israeli war on Gaza.

About 60 have been killed since the start of the Israeli war on Gaza war, already close to the same number of journalists killed during the entire Vietnam War half a century ago.

Other brutal wars in the Middle East have not come close to the intensity of the current one.

In a war, you know, a classical war, I can say that in Syria, in Iraq, in ex-Yugoslavia, we didnt see this kind of massacre, Anthony Bellanger, the general secretary of the International Federation of Journalists, told The Associated Press.

Along with the human toll, the premises of many media organizations in Gaza have been destroyed, he said. He estimated there were about 1,000 journalists and media workers in Gaza before the conflict and said that now, no one can get out.

And yet amid the rubble, local journalists continue to do their job, said Nasser Abu Baker, president of the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate.

They lost their families, and they continue their work," he said. "They are without houses, and they continue their work. ... Without food, without the security for them, and without their families. Also, if their families are still alive, they are not with their families because they are living or sleeping in the hospitals.

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Eleven more bodies have been discovered, bringing the death toll to 22 following the eruption of Indonesia's Mount Marapi.

Two bodies were found on Monday, with nine more discovered on Tuesday, according to the National Search and Rescue Agency. One hiker remains missing and is presumed dead, said Edi Mardianto, the deputy police chief in West Sumatra province. The hiker went missing close to the eruption site.

Rescuers were able to save around 75 climbers and confirmed 11 dead following Sunday's initial eruption. Abdul Malik, chief of the Padang Search and Rescue Agency, said rescue missions were temporarily halted after new eruptions on Monday and Tuesday spewed ash, impacting visibility.

Poor weather conditions also challenged rescuers as they worked to bring bodies down the mountain and continued to search for the missing hiker, Malik said.
On Friday the Caribbean Football Union will stage the 2024 Next Gen Referees Course for Regi
By Jeff Murphy, December 5, 2023





University of Central Missouri academic leaders Jeff Robertson (fourth from left), Laurel Hogue (seventh from left) and Phoebe McLaughlin (ninth from left) joined academic leaders, teachers and students at Hengshui University in China for the 2023 Fall Meeting between HSU and UCM. (Photo courtesy of Hengshui University)



WARRENSBURG, MO  Placing a high value on preparing students to work in a global environment, a delegation of University of Central Missouri representatives traveled to China this fall to continue building upon UCMs cooperative educational relationship with Hengshui University. Their visit took place at the same time a small number of HSU students are experiencing campus life in Warrensburg, Missouri, and as the university explores a possible visit from HSU education leaders in spring 2024.



The group of three UCM educators made the week-long trek to Hengshui City in the Hebei Province in mid-October to meet with approximately 175 students and visit with faculty members and administrators who are part of the 3+1 Cooperative Program in Mathematics and Applied Mathematics. This cooperative arrangement between HSU and UCM provides a seamless path to a bachelors degree by enabling students to complete their first three years of the program by taking courses in their home country, then finishing their final year at the partnering institution abroad. The degree awarded is from both HSU and UCM.

This program was approved by the Ministry of Education (MOE) of the Peoples Republic of China for implementation in November 2021. The joint initiative was one of only a few that were chosen through a highly selective process that involved proposals from several other institutions across the globe.



We applied for three different pathways, but Mathematics and Applied Mathematics was the only one that was approved by the Ministry of Education, said Laurel Hogue, Ed.D., vice provost for online learning and engagement at UCM. There were over 500 applications submitted that year, and we were one of only 24 that were approved.



Once the agreement was ready for implementation, Hogue said UCM and HSU were eligible to recruit up to 100 students annually for each cohort, the first of which was established in fall 2022. The second cohort began in fall 2023.



Hogue said students in the 3+1 programs first cohort will arrive at UCM during the fall 2025 semester, where they will spend their final year of the undergraduate degree program. These students are currently engaged in their sophomore year at HSU.



Phoebe McLaughlin, Ph.D., chair and professor in the Department of Mathematics, Actuarial Science, and Statistics, and Jeff Robertson, Ph.D., dean of the College of Health, Science and Technology, joined Hogue on the trip to China.



This was a celebration of this program, Robertson said in summarizing the groups visit to HSU, an institution which in 2023 is observing its 100th anniversary.



Although UCM members were invited, but could not attend centennial festivities on Nov. 8, UCM President Roger Best provided a congratulatory letter that was publicly displayed during the celebration. Phil Bridgmon, provost and vice president for academic affairs, also offered his congratulations in a video that was presented to HSU representatives.



Robertson noted that there were various engagement opportunities related to the 3+1 program. The UCM group, for example, got to meet with Chinese students who are currently enrolled in this program and attend an awards ceremony that recognized their achievements.



They had both cohorts of students  freshmen and sophomores  there, and they gave out awards to the sophomore cohort, he said.



Such opportunities provided face-to-face interaction which helped strengthen the bond between UCM and HSU, according to Hogue.



Up until this point, weve basically had a relationship via Zoom. So, Im very thankful for the opportunity to go over there and meet people in person, she said, also adding that the hospitality the UCM delegation received from the Chinese hosts was top-notch.



During the trip to China, McLaughlin served as the groups interpreter while it met with HSU President Shouzhong Wang, students and other leaders in formal and informal gatherings. Robertson praised her efforts to work in collaboration with faculty and administrators at UCM and HSU to implement the 3+1 program.



Phoebe has built the tracks while riding on the train. She is a logistics and organizational wizard, the dean said in describing her contributions to this program.



McLaughlin said a number of faculty members are currently using Zoom to deliver freshman and sophomore courses to students who are enrolled in the 3+1 program. Students and HSU co-teachers join the lecture in their classroom synchronously. UCM faculty sharing these responsibilities this academic year are Drs. Lianwen Wang, Nawaf Mohammed, Xiadong Yue, Nalin Fonseka, and Blaise Heider.



While the focus of the trip to China was on the 3+1 Cooperative Program in Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, this initiative spawned another program that was launched with a virtual signing in January 2022. The Memorandum of Understanding that was entered by HSU President Wang and UCM President Best created a 3+1+1 agreement which gives students from both institutions an opportunity to continue on their educational paths as graduate students the following year after earning their bachelors degrees. It also paves the way for faculty members to become lecturers on each campus.



At least five students from China are at UCM this fall planning to earn graduate degrees. Among them is Yumeng Zhen, who said she came here because of the 3+1+1 program. She grew up in Shijiazhuang City, which is about a two-hour drive from Hengshui City. During the summer of 2023, she finished her Bachelor of Arts in English at HSU.



I took classes last fall (at UCM) as an undergraduate student. Then after my graduation, I also applied to the master degree program here at UCM. Currently, Im taking three lecture classes and one hybrid class in the MSE-TESL program. Im going to finish my degree here by December, 2024, she said.



When Zhen first came to UCM, she said she was attracted to the beautiful campus and well-equipped facilities. Along the way, she also discovered how the university values diversity, which opened opportunities for her to participate in many multicultural events and meet people from different backgrounds. This carries over to the dining halls, where she appreciates having food choices representative of different cultures.



Another 3+1+1 student, Xingyue Yin, was born in Baoding, which is situated in the same province as HSU, where she earned a bachelors degree. Her experience with UCM began by taking online classes during her 2022 summer vacation. This led to her enrolling at Central Missouri the following fall semester. She is continuing her education this fall at UCM by taking three undergraduate courses and a graduate class.



I applied for the accelerated program in Biology. Hopefully, I will graduate as an undergraduate student in the spring semester of 2024 and as a graduate student in the spring semester of 2025, she stated.



Yin said she benefited by having a friend who was already on campus when she came to UCM.. While her friend helped her learn how to navigate in a new environment with different cultures, she also found a great source of assistance among the faculty members in her academic program.



The professors Ive met are very friendly, possess a strong knowledge base, and take good care of international students, she noted. She added that faculty have helped her adapt to life in a new place.



UCM has brought me many valuable experiences, Yin stated. I have seen a beautiful campus, experienced American culture, and made friends from all over the country.



Looking to the future, both UCM and HSU are poised to explore opportunities to build upon their relationship. Faculty exchange opportunities and a possible visit by HSU leaders are likely on the horizon.
Nepal has called on Moscow not to recruit its citizens into the Russian army and immediately send all previously recruited Nepalese soldiers back to the country.

That's according to The Kathmandu Post, Ukrinform reports.

The Nepalese government said that at least six Nepali nationals serving in the Russian army had been killed while fighting Ukrainian forces. The country's foreign ministry asked the Russian government to immediately return the bodies of the dead and pay compensation to their families. The statement added that diplomatic efforts were on to rescue and repatriate Bibek Khatri, who was fighting for Russia and had been captured by the Ukrainian army.

Milan Raj Tuladhar, Nepali ambassador to Russia, told the media outlet that it is estimated that as many as 150-200 Nepali nationals have been serving in the Russian army as mercenaries.

"We are sending those who come to our contact back to Nepal, telling them about the high risks associated with joining the Russian army," Tuladhar said.

The ambassador added that Nepali nationals were being lured with promises of big money and were mostly smuggled into Russia, with each individual paying up to NPR 1 million to "agents." With the help of human traffickers, many Nepalis have reached Russia on student and tourist visas and joined its army.

Even Nepali nationals who are living in Russia are involved in the trafficking of fellow Nepalis, prompting the Nepali Embassy in Moscow to request the Russian government to discourage nonessential visits of Nepali nationals, the foreign ministry said.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal stated that the government has information that some Nepali nationals also serve in the Ukrainian Army. However, the government does not have data on how many Nepali citizens are currently serving in Russian and Ukrainian armies since the war started on February 24, 2022

The government does not permit Nepali nationals to serve in foreign armies besides India and the United Kingdom. On August 1, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal issued a statement and urged Nepali citizens not to join foreign armies in war-torn countries.
The Union of Road Carriers of Slovakia (UNAS) threatens to completely block the Vysne Nemecke-Uzhhorod border crossing point if the situation with the return of the permit system for Ukrainian truckers is not resolved.

This is stated by the head of UNAS Stanislav Skala, Ukrinform saw.

According to Skala, Slovak carriers are aware that the way to solve the problem is not easy, but at the same time, he calls it unacceptable that the current situation continues to exist.

That is why UNAS remains prepared for a strike and, if there is no other alternative to resolve the situation, UNAS is ready to completely block the Vysne Nemecke-Uzhhorod checkpoint in both directions, the statement reads.

The UNAS chairman thanked Slovak Minister of Transport Jozef Raz for raising the issue of the return of the permit system for Ukrainian carriers and the impact of its abolition on road transport in Slovakia at the EU Transport Ministerial Council in Brussels on December 4.

He announced a meeting of the Slovak Minister of Transport with UNAS representatives on Thursday, December 7, where the impact of this situation will be discussed and the parties will look for solutions to change it.

As Ukrinform reported, on November 6, Polish carriers began a blockade of truck traffic near the three largest checkpoints on the border with Ukraine: Korczowa-Krakivets, Hrebenne-Rava-Ruska, Dorohusk-Yahodyn.

On December 1, Slovakian carriers joined the Polish border blockade. They began blocking truck traffic through the Vysne Nemecke checkpoint, which is adjacent to the Ukrainian checkpoint Uzhhorod. On the evening of December 4, this action ended, and the checkpoint on the Slovak-Ukrainian border was unblocked.
As part of their visit to the United States, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak, Verkhovna Rada Chairman Ruslan Stefanchuk and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov have met with the chairs of the committees of the House of Representatives and members of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus.

That's according to the Office of the President, Ukrinform reports.

Ukrainian high-ranking officials met with Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the U.S. House of Representatives Michael McCaul, Chairman of the Intelligence Committee Mike Turner and Chairman of the Armed Forces Committee Mike Rogers.

During the meeting, Yermak thanked the participants for preparing a strategically important document that provides a clear set of steps by the United States to confront Russia entitled "Proposed Plan for Victory in Ukraine." In particular, among its priorities are the transfer of weapons to Ukraine in the appropriate amount and at the appropriate time, the strengthening of sanctions and export control over Russia, increased pressure on the Group of Seven and the EU to transfer Russia's frozen sovereign assets to Ukraine, and a number of other important measures.

Yermak also thanked U.S. Congress and the American people for the financial, humanitarian and defense assistance provided to Ukraine. In particular, security assistance from the United States alone has already reached almost $45 billion.

Representatives of the Ukrainian delegation noted the leadership of the United States in strengthening Ukraine's capabilities, which inspires partners from other countries, including members of the European Union.

"We appreciate that both parties of the United States - Republican and Democratic - are united in their support of Ukraine. Bipartisan support is our main value, and we count it will be preserved," he said.

During the meeting, Stefanchuk and Yermak emphasized the importance of the fastest possible consideration in Congress of the budget request for financing additional expenditures for assistance to Ukraine worth more than $61 billion, which is vital for the continued liberation of Ukrainian territory from the Russian invaders.

The parties also discussed Ukraine's immediate defense needs, particularly the strengthening of air defenses, increasing the supply of long-range missiles, artillery shells, tanks and armored vehicles, as well as the transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.

The parties also considered the issue of Euro-Atlantic integration of Ukraine. Yermak said that full membership in NATO was a strategic goal for the country and this accession would also strengthen the military alliance.

In addition, Yermak and Stefanchuk met with representatives of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus.

The two said that despite the war, Ukraine is actively implementing reforms, including those provided for in the program of cooperation with the IMF. The concept of strengthening the stability of democracy in Ukraine has already been developed. They also noted that the fight against corruption is one of the highest priorities for President Volodymyr Zelensky's team, as evidenced by numerous recently launched proceedings.

Yermak noted important work in the area of the seizure of Russian assets for Ukraine's reconstruction, in particular the support of the bill that authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice to quickly confiscate valuable assets belonging to sanctioned Russian oligarchs and transfer them to Ukraine.

The Ukrainian side also highly appreciated a draft resolution of the Senate on the 90th anniversary of the Holodomor in Ukraine in 1932-1933 - genocide against Ukrainians.

The parties also discussed deepening cooperation with Ukrainian caucuses, attracting new members to them, and expanding cooperation with other congressional caucuses.

Photo credit: Office of the President of Ukraine
Korean students showed a huge disparity in math test scores in the latest Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) of 690,000 teenage students in 81 countries.

PISA is conducted every three years to assess the math, reading and science abilities of students around the world, though the latest assessment was delayed by a year due to lockdown.

Korean students ranked third to seventh place in math, up from fifth to ninth place in the 2018 test. But while the proportion of top-ranked students increased from 21.4 percent to 22.9 percent, the proportion of bottom-ranked students also increased from 15 percent to 16.2 percent.
On Wednesday, December 6, 2023, Ukrainians are marking Day of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

On December 6, 1991, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine passed the laws, On the Armed Forces of Ukraine and On the Defense of Ukraine, and on December 13, 1991 endorsed the Concept of Defense and Development of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which determined the main principles and areas of the development of the Ukrainian Army, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

Ukraine inherited from the USSR one of the most powerful military groups in Europe, equipped with nuclear weapons and relatively modern types of armms and military equipment. However, in more than 20 years of Ukraines independent histoty, the Ukrainian Army was nearly destroyed. Over the decades, there had been massive military personnel layoffs. Some servicemen left the service themselves in despair, not seeing any prospects in the army. Apart from internal factors, there were external ones, as during these years Ukraine had to overcome the intense pressure of Moscow, which in every possible way opposed the creation of the effective Armed Forces in our country.

The turning point in the history of the modern Ukrainian Army was the events of 2013-2014: the Revolution of Dignity, the occupation of Crimea and parts of eastern Ukraine. Despite the Army laying in ruins, betrayals, losses, insane pressure and treachery of the enemy, the Ukrainian military managed to defend the motherlands independence and protect the Ukrainian people from the aggressor.

Currently, the Ukrainian Army is strengthening its combat capability, and Ukraine has declared its intention to join NATO.

It is worth noting that, for the second year in a row, Ukrainians are marking Day of the Armed Forces amid the Russian full-scale invasion. With the start of Russias full-scale aggression, the Armed Forces of Ukraine demonstrated that they are capable of opposing the Russian army, which is currently listed as the worlds second most powerful one.

Meanwhile, as of January 2023, in the worlds Military Strength Ranking by Global Firepower, Ukraine took 15th place from among 145 world powers. A year ago, it was ranked 22nd.
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Published December 5, 2023

CAPTION: (L-R) Associate Professor of Political Science Dr. Leigh Hersey, freshman psychology major Morgan Neal, Director of Rec Services Brandon Bruscato, and Coordinator of Spirit Groups Elizabeth Wheeler

MONROE, LA  The ULM Honors Political Science class recently made a donation of $328 to the ULM Food Pantry, which provides non-perishable food items to students experiencing food insecurity on campus. The money was raised through a donation-based bake sale hosted by the class.

The idea for the project came about earlier in the semester when the class studied food insecurity and food policy in the U.S., including the causes of hunger and how to fight hunger through community and government resources. The students heard from a representative of the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana about the work they do in the region and learned about public policy such as the U.S. Farm Bill and food safety regulations. After learning about food insecurity on college campuses, the class decided to focus their group project on fighting hunger and hosted a donation-based bake sale, with proceeds going to the ULM Food Pantry.

These students increased awareness about food insecurity on our campus, said Dr. Leigh Hersey, Associate Professor of Political Science. They took what we discussed in class and used it to make a meaningful contribution to their fellow students. I also want to thank everyone who contributed to the bake sale. We could not have achieved this without their support, added Hersey.

Morgan Neal is a freshman psychology major who was part of the class project. We wanted to do something that was for our students on campus that we might pass by every day, said Neal. A lot of people are not comfortable saying they are struggling with food insecurity and need help. Having the food pantry on campus helps those individuals, she added.

The ULM Food Pantry is located in the Student Activity Center at 210 Warhawk Way. The pantry is open to all ULM students and staff, providing a valuable resource to those in need with no questions asked. The Food Pantry works in partnership with the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana, but also accepts donations from the community. For more information about the ULM Food Pantry, contact Elizabeth Wheeler at ewheeler@ulm.edu or visit ulm.edu/recserv/ulmfoodpantry.html to see hours and a list of currently needed items.
12/06/2023

By Ed Brennen

Plastics engineering alum Cormac Hondros-McCarthy 15 grew up on the water, spending summers at his familys place in Bar Harbor, Maine.

When he and his dad would take their small sailboat out on Frenchman Bay, Hondros-McCarthy remembers their rudder sometimes getting caught on the lines for lobster traps sitting on the seabed some 300 feet below.

Fast-forward several years: Shortly after graduating from UMass Lowell, Hondros-McCarthy found himself in Malaysia, competing in an engineering prototype hackathon with a few co-workers from DEKA, a medical device company in Manchester, New Hampshire.

We wanted to do some free-spirited engineering, so we applied, got in and took two weeks off for the trip, he says.

The hackathon required teams to address one of five areas of ocean conservation. Hondros-McCarthys team chose to reduce ghost gear  the fishing nets, lines and traps that get lost at sea during storms. They came up with a rough variation of a ropeless lobster fishing system that utilizes buoyancy to bring the trap to the surface.

Image by Ed Brennen

Their prototype won the $4,000 first prize  and it was the start of a ropeless fishing journey that sparked the interest in the startup LiftLabs, which Hondros-McCarthy now owns and operates in his hometown of Lowell.

When you take a step back, its really gratifying to be doing this every day, Hondros-McCarthy says while giving a tour of his two-story workshop, which he built in the detached garage behind the house where he lives with his wife, Maureen, and their 2-year-old son.

Hondros-McCarthy began working on LiftLabs six years ago. After getting three grants from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) totaling $514,000, he quit his senior manufacturing engineer job at FLIR Systems in North Billerica, Massachusetts, in 2021 to devote all his time to his idea.

Two of the NOAA grants are from its Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program, which aims to protect sea life that is caught in fishing gear. In the case of lobster fishing, its to protect the North Atlantic right whale, one of the worlds most endangered large whale species, with fewer than 350 remaining. Hondros-McCarthy says more than 80% of the whales have entanglement scars from fishing lines.

Image by Ed Brennen It's a very unique opportunity to be able to start a company where the government wants it to happen and they're willing to fund the development, says Hondros-McCarthy, who is also applying for Small Business Innovation Research grants from NOAA.

Hondros-McCarthy, whose sister Ianna earned a psychology degree from UML in 2012, originally enrolled as a mechanical engineering major. He switched to plastics engineering, partly at the suggestion of his uncle, Stephen McCarthy , a professor emeritus in the department.

UMass Lowell provided a strong basis to get started on LiftLabs, says Hondros-McCarthy. Everybody, especially in the College of Engineering, feeds off of each other, learning the basics of what it takes to break down a problem and get to the first principles  how does this work at the most basic level? Thats the main thing you learn in engineering: Dont be afraid at the start of a problem. Whats the first part I can solve, then what else can I solve?

Hondros-McCarthy was among the first students to participate in UMLs Rist DifferenceMaker Program . He and fellow plastics engineering major Casey McRae 15 won the $4,000 first prize in the Innovative Technology Solution category for their 3D-printed Masela Dentures

Im not sure that I would have taken on the endeavor of doing a startup of my own were it not for my DifferenceMaker experience, Hondros-McCarthy says.

Image by Ed Brennen He is currently building LiftLabs with electrical engineer Paul Williams, who is working part-time. When he gets additional grant funding, Hondros-McCarthy plans to bring on full-time employees and an intern from UMass Lowell.

I would have jumped at something like this when I was looking for internships, says Hondros-McCarthy, who completed two co-ops as a student and was also a member of the River Hawk Racing team. A lot of our stuff is 3D printed and were always making changes, so theres plenty of things to learn.

LiftLabs is part of an accelerator program for startups at Dassaults Systemes in Waltham, Massachusetts, where Hondros-McCarthy has free access to computer-aided design modeling software in the 3D Experience Lab.

While there are several other companies that make ropeless lobster fishing systems, Hondros-McCarthy hopes LiftLabs innovative technology and lower price point will help it catch on in the industry.

The device, about the size of a fire extinguisher, attaches to the top of the lobster trap and features an acoustic communication system. When a lobsterman want to bring a trap to the surface, they send a signal via an app on their phone. A compressed air tank then inflates a balloon, which lifts the trap. The tank can then be refilled on a docking station aboard the boat.

Image by Ed Brennen

The goal is to make it a closed-loop system thats simple and easy to operate, says Hondros-McCarthy, who hopes to get the cost of a unit below $1,000  a price tag that could be offset by federal subsidies. Some ropeless systems on the market cost more than $4,000, he notes, while traditional rope and buoy traps cost around $150, with around 20% of them lost during storms each year.

We havent lost any of our gear to date, says Hondros-McCarthy, who has worked with Scott Fulmer , a research professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering, on the safety of the LiftLabs system.

Lobster fishing is one of the most injury-prone professions. The traps are heavy, and the boats are moving around. Theres ropes tangled on the deck that can drag people overboard, Hondros-McCarthy says.

He has tested around 30 LiftLabs systems with lobstermen, including a recent group in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and the feedback has been positive, he says. He has been garnering media attention for his work and hopes to have LiftLab systems on the market in the next few years.

By adding additional sensors to the system, Hondros-McCarthy says it could provide data on ocean conditions such as temperature, salinity and oxygen content, which lobstermen could use to find more profitable areas for their traps.

That will be fun to work on collecting the data, Hondros-McCarthy says. Its so difficult to get that information from the bottom of the ocean. Its this world of its own down there.
Mexico, despite being one of the most populous countries in Latin America and responsible for 23% of the regions carbon emissions, doesnt have a pavilion at the Climate Change Summit (COP28) in Dubai. According to Carbon Brief, Mexicos 137 delegates pale in comparison to the thousands sent by Brazil, and even a small country like Honduras sent two more delegates than Mexico.

Mexico is among the 110+ countries at COP28 that pledged to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030. However, the Lopez Obrador administration seems reluctant to embrace a genuine transition that focuses on renewable energy adoption and moving away from fossil fuels.

Over the past five years, there hasnt been any progress in the expansion of renewables. Instead, there has been a strong push to revert back to fossil fuels, disregarding both environmental and economic factors, said Fernanda Ballesteros, who manages the Natural Resource Governance Institutes Mexico program.

The Mexican governments flagship green energy project is Sonora, a huge solar farm that can potentially become the most powerful in Latin America, with a capacity of 1,000 megawatts. However, it is crucial for the country to have a plan to transition away from oil and gas to effectively address climate change, as simply generating renewable electrical energy wont be enough.

In Mexico, approximately 70% of emissions are caused by fossil fuels. The transportation sector accounts for 40% of these emissions, while the electricity sector contributes 35%. Yet the governments current focus is on promoting Pemex, the state oil company responsible for 95% of the countrys hydrocarbon production, driven by its goal of achieving energy independence and reducing oil and gas imports.

According to the United Nations Environment Programs 2023 Production Gap Report, the Mexican government injected approximately $3.5 billion to boost Pemexs finances. Under the Lopez Obrador administration, the oil companys tax rate dropped from 65% to 30%. Regarding Mexicos policies and discourses on a managed and equitable transition away from fossil fuel production, the report starkly concluded: No such government policies or discourses were identified.

Ana Tamborrel is the justice and climate policy manager for the Mexico Climate Initiative, where she spearheads the agenda concerning just energy transitions and climate change. One of Mexicos proposed reforms, said Tamborrel, aims to give electrical transmission priority to plants owned by the state-owned company  the Federal Electricity Commission  most of which use fossil fuels for generation. Ballesteros noted, While the [Pena Nieto administrations] Energy Transition Law set goals for renewable energy expansion, it did not account for the potential output of oil and gas. Nor has the current government done much to address this, says Ballesteros.

Legislators fill the void left by the Executive Branch

At Colombias COP28 pavilion, a group of Latin American legislators urged an accelerated transition away from fossil fuels. Mario Alberto Rodriguez Carrillo, from Mexicos Citizen Movement party, seized the opportunity to present a report outlining how his country could make the transition. The document he prepared with four other Mexican legislators (including Alberto Villa Villegas from the ruling Morena party) says that if Mexico sticks to its commitments under the Paris Agreement, it could become a model for an equitable and just energy transition.

As the world shifts away from fossil fuels, our focus is on expanding refineries, said Rodriguez, one of the 32 Mexican congressional representatives who have joined the call for a future without fossil fuels. The purpose of this report is to show that by securing national and international funding, we can shift towards using fewer fossil fuels and adopting cleaner energy sources.

In response to significant social pressure, Mexico updated its climate commitments in 2022. The country aims to reduce its emissions by 35% by 2030 without international financing, and could achieve a 40% reduction with support. But legislators and experts alike say political will is needed for this to happen.

Over 30 civil society organizations in Mexico have joined forces to produce a six-year (2024-2030) decarbonization and climate resilience plan that will provide guidance to presidential candidates next year. They are making a resounding plea for their message to resonate with the newly elected president in 2024.

This article was written with support from Climate Trackers COP28 Climate Justice Journalism Fellowship program.

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It is Unconscionable that Members of Congress and Progressive Women's Groups Have Refused to Unequivocally Condemn Hamas for Raping and Sexually Assaulting Women

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Stanton Public Policy Center

Dec. 5, 2023



WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2023 /Standard Newswire/ -- Groups like Planned Parenthood, Women's March, Democrat Women's Caucus, Emily's List and National Organization for Women have tragically remained silent.



Today Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said; "I heard, and you also heard, about sexual abuse and incidents of brutal rape like nothing else." He then expressed outrage at feminist and human rights groups who have largely stayed silent on the sexual atrocities Hamas perpetrated. Netanyahu went on to say, "Where the hell are you?"



Stanton Public Policy, completely agrees with Prime Minister Netanyahu, and is deeply troubled that human rights and progressive women's groups have refused to condemn these horrific acts of violence against women.



Leaders from Stanton Public Policy Center have held public demonstrations in Washington, D.C. condemning Hamas for raping, brutalizing and sexually assaulting women.





Leaders from Stanton Public Policy Center protesting at the Iranian Interests Section in Washington, D.C.



Based in Washington, D.C., Stanton Public Policy Center is a women's advocacy and educational group that works on issues of human rights and justice which empower and inspire women. It is affiliated with Stanton Healthcare which has life-affirming women's health clinics in America and internationally.



Brandi Swindell, Founder and CEO of Stanton Public Policy Center, states:

"The brutal acts of sexual violence and rape committed by Hamas against women are horrifying and unconscionable, and must unequivocally be condemned. The world cannot remain silent while women are being publicly attacked and violated.



"It is also unconscionable for progressive women's groups and human rights activists to remain silent and indifferent in the face of this kind of sexual violence. Stanton Public Policy Center will always stand and support women without any hesitation and listen to their voices. Confronting issues of abuse and violence against women, must always transcend political ideology and partisanship."

Rev. Patrick Mahoney, Chief Strategy Officer for Stanton Public Policy, adds:

"Holocaust Survivor and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Elie Wiesel, said; 'We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.'



"When it comes to rape and sexual violence against women by Hamas, the world cannot be neutral or silent. We must always take sides against this kind of brutality against women.



"This issue has nothing do with politics or partisanship. Rather, it is an issue of human rights and ensuring women must never be subjected to this kind of violence."

For more information or interviews call

Rev. Patrick Mahoney at 540.538.4741



SOURCE Stanton Public Policy Center



CONTACT: Rev. Patrick Mahoney, 540-538-4741


There is no duo without divorce. It is almost a law of pop: two people start their career together, achieve success together, and then they grow apart and split up, bitterly vowing to never associate with the other ever again. From Simon and Garfunkel to Ike & Tina and Eric B. & Rakim, breakup seems inevitable. The latest case, revealed only a few days ago, is that of Hall & Oates, who in 1984 the Recording Industry Association of America referred to as the most successful duo in rock history.

At the end of November, Daryl Hall, 77, filed a lawsuit against John Oates, 75, alleging a breach of the contract that the duo had signed over the rights to their music. Apparently, Hall found out that Oates was planning to sell them and sued him, after which a Nashville judge issued an order preventing him from closing the sale of his share of Whole Oats Enterprises, the partnership he shares with Hall, to Primary Wave IP Investment Management LLC. The lawsuit included a temporary restraining order, a measure usually taken to prevent one party from harming the economic interests of the other.

The story of Hall & Oates is the story of one of the most profitable duos of all time, and at the same time one of the most ignored. It is difficult to find references to them in the rock history books, and when there are, as in the case of Dylan Jones The Biographical Dictionary of Popular Music, they are not kind. Hall & Oates were never cool. Not ever. Not at the start of their career (when David Bowie was cool), not at the height of their success (when Madonna was about as cool as cool can be), nor indeed now (when most people are cool). The problem was a simple one. Even though they made  and occasionally continue to make  some of the best blue-eyed soul ever recorded, they had an image problem, with Daryl Hall looking like a market town hairdresser, and John Oates looking like Super Marios smaller, uglier brother, wrote the English author.

The key to the current conflict lies in all the hits they garnered. Between 1972 and 2006, they published 18 albums. They had six number ones in the US; 16 songs in the top ten; 34 in the top 100. At the beginning of the 1980s they made three albums that sold millions of copies: Voices, Private Eyes and H2O. In fact, on their last tour together, in 2021, speaking about their repertoire, Oates stated that their problem was having too many hits.

But they were always the epitome of a band that made music for people who didnt care too much about music. Being a fan of Hall & Oates didnt make you cool. Wearing a Hall & Oates t-shirt means nothing, Metallicas manager once said. And it is true  but it is also true that the ubiquitous classic rock stations of today are constantly playing songs like Maneater, Shes Gone or Out of Touch. That, however, has not improved their reputation. They didnt even get a piece of the pie when bands like Steely Dan began to be claimed as champions of the yacht rock genre. Hall & Oates were not from California; their songs did not evoke executives and silicone blondes sipping prosecco on a yacht. They were from Philadelphia and were associated with suburban, middle-class housewives. In The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Carlton  Will Smiths cousin who acted like a preppy white guy  secretly danced to You Make My Dreams by Hall & Oates. When Will caught him, he left the room quiet and ashamed.

To a large extent, their problem is also one of prejudice. They say that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame did not want to induct them because the institution was being accused of being too male and white. Hall and Oates were white men making music that could be taken as cultural appropriation, because their most glorious songs are those closest to soul. If they eventually got accepted, it was thanks to one specific young, black fan: Questlove, from The Roots. He was also the one who gave the speech. Hall and Oates will cure any known ailments. They cross all the boundaries, because that is what great music does, he said.

The truth is that they were an odd couple. Daryl Hall, of German descent, was tall and blonde. John Oates, of Italian, Gibraltarian, Moroccan and English origins, was short with tightly curly black hair and had a mustache that, although he shaved it off decades ago, continues to be what comes to mind when one thinks of him. Both of their attempts to look like children of their time were pathetic. In the Rich Girl video, Hall wears a pair of absurd sunglasses and a fur coat, while John Oates dons a three-piece suit that would look more at home in a gangster movie than in Saturday Night Fever. That inevitably depreciated a great song that could have been written by Marvin Gaye.

They met in the 1960s when Hall was promoting the first single of his group The Temptones, a white quartet that did soul in the style of the Four Tops or The Temptations, and they hit it off. They were both freshmen at Temple University, and they became roommates. In 1972, they founded Hall & Oates. They began recording with Atlantic, but it was not until they signed with RCA in 1975 that they started to stand out. Their first megahit was the album Bigger Than Both of Us. It seems that Daryl Hall had the quiet conviction  so common in one of the components of those Wham!-style duos  that he did everything and Oates was little more than an extra. In fact, he did not even enjoy the idea of being a duo.

Whatever the mystique [about duos] is, I dont like it, he told the Los Angeles Times in 2022. John and I call our touring company Two-Headed Monster, because it is that. Its very annoying to be a duo, because people always say, Oh, youre the tall one, youre the short one. Youre the one that sings, youre the one that doesnt sing. Youre always compared to the other person. It works with comedy entities, like Laurel and Hardy or Abbott and Costello, but with music, its fucked up, actually. In fact, rumor has it that if they did not split before it was due to contractual obligations. RCA believed that the odd couple worked and boycotted any attempt by Hall to make a serious solo career. When he recorded an album with Robert Fripp in 1976 that completely departed from his work with Oates, RCA forbade him from releasing it, and it was shelved.

In recent times, Hall has talked about it openly. You think John Oates is my partner? Hes my business partner. Hes not my creative partner, he stated in an interview. According to AP, although what is known about the lawsuit does not specify what exactly is for sale, Primary Wave has been interested in acquiring Hall and Oates song catalog for 15 years. In a 2021 interview with Sky News, Hall alluded to a previous sale of part of the catalog. It got sold off for me and I didnt get the money, he declared, before advising artists to hold on to their rights: Its all you have.

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In an unexpected turn of events, Saint Augustine's University (SAU) finds itself in the throes of an unprecedented crisis, with the sudden termination of President Dr. Christine Johnson McPhail. This development unfolds against the backdrop of a broader struggle for accreditation, casting a shadow over the future of this historic institution.

The October Board Meeting: Tensions Escalate

The genesis of this crisis lies in the turmoil of an October 5 board meeting convened to address SAU's financial standing. However, what should have been a routine discussion escalated into a hostile environment, with Dr. McPhail alleging mistreatment by trustees Rufus Montgomery and Hadley Evans, Jr. The alleged hostile behavior reached a point where SAU's vice president of finance and administration, Gwen Kea, was brought to tears, prompting McPhail to call for a pause in the proceedings.

Responding to the contentious board meeting, Dr. McPhail took the courageous step of filing an internal complaint on October 9. In the complaint, she detailed the alleged hostile behavior of certain trustees during the October 5 meeting. Shockingly, rather than addressing the concerns raised, her attempts to resolve the issue were met with resistance from the board. What followed were threats to McPhail's job, culminating in her abrupt termination a mere few weeks after filing the complaint.

READ ALSO: University Of Arizona Administration Accused Of Financial Mismanagement

Legal Battle Looms as Board Denies Allegations

In a dramatic twist, the SAU board has vehemently denied Dr. McPhail's allegations, dismissing them as unfounded. This stark contradiction in narratives sets the stage for potential legal battles, exposing the underlying complexities within SAU's internal dynamics and leadership struggles. As the university faces this tumultuous period, the public is left to grapple with the contrasting perspectives presented by McPhail and the board.

A Tangled Web of Accreditation Woes

Compounding the crisis, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) voted to strip SAU of its accreditation. This drastic move adds another layer of complexity to an already intricate situation. Despite this blow, SAU remains resilient, vowing to appeal the decision and retaining accreditation on probation during the process. The threat to accreditation underscores the high stakes involved, with the university's future hanging in the balance.

Financial Challenges and Previous Probation

A historical backdrop of financial challenges haunts SAU, including incomplete audits and record maintenance issues. These challenges had led to a previous probationary period, with Dr. McPhail attributing the problems to practices under a former administration and an unreliable auditor. The financial struggles, both past and present, contribute to the multifaceted nature of the current crisis.

HBCU Expert Dr. Marybeth Gasman Weighs In

Dr. Marybeth Gasman, an esteemed expert in HBCU leadership, provides valuable insights into the broader context. Her seasoned observations shed light on the potential repercussions of Dr. McPhail's abrupt termination, emphasizing the impact on SAU's stability. Dr. Gasman draws attention to the recurring leadership challenges faced by HBCUs, adding a layer of historical perspective to the unfolding crisis.

Optimism Amid Uncertainty: McPhail's Vision for SAU's Future

Amidst the turbulence, Dr. McPhail maintains an optimistic outlook for SAU's future. Her confidence in the dedication of faculty and staff remains unwavering. Dr. McPhail envisions a path forward for the institution, emphasizing the collective effort required during the challenging appeal process, offering a glimmer of hope in the face of uncertainty.

As SAU grapples with this unprecedented crisis, the decisions made in the coming weeks will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of this venerable institution. The removal of Dr. McPhail, coupled with the threat to accreditation, places SAU at a critical crossroads, requiring strategic and collective efforts to ensure its resilience and continuity. The eyes of the academic community and beyond remain fixed on the unfolding developments at SAU, a symbol of resilience facing an uncertain future.





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In a groundbreaking initiative, the University of Kentucky, the University of Louisville, and Lung Cancer Alliance have joined forces to address the pressing issue of lung cancer in Kentucky.

With a $7 million grant from the Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation's Bridging Cancer Care initiative, the collaborative project, named Kentucky LEADS (Lung Cancer. Education. Awareness. Detection. Survivorship), aims to significantly reduce the burden of lung cancer in a state that tops the charts with the highest number of cases and a mortality rate nearly 50 percent higher than the national average.

A Critical Need for Intervention

Kentucky faces a dire situation with more cases of lung cancer than any other state. The mortality rate from lung cancer in Kentucky is alarming, prompting urgent action. The Kentucky LEADS Collaborative seeks to pioneer innovative approaches to identify lung cancer earlier, enhance survival rates, and improve the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers.

Governor Steve Beshear underscores the significance of Kentucky taking a leadership role in combating the nation's highest lung cancer mortality rates. Aligned with the KyHealthNow goals, this collaborative effort aspires to reduce statewide cancer and smoking rates by 10 percent by 2019, offering a comprehensive approach to tackling this crisis on a broad scale.

READ ALSO: Northwestern University Gives Incarcerated Graduates A New Chance On Life

The Sobering Reality of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer, the most common cancer worldwide, poses a significant threat to the residents of Kentucky, claiming over 3,500 lives annually. With sobering statistics revealing a one-year survival rate of one in two patients and a five-year survival rate of only 16 in 100, the urgency of early detection and intervention cannot be overstated.

A Multifaceted Approach to Lung Cancer The Kentucky LEADS

Collaborative comprises three vital components, each addressing a crucial aspect of lung cancer prevention, detection, and survivorship. The first component focuses on educating primary care providers to enhance referral and treatment practices. The second component, led by Dr. Jamie Studts, aims to develop a lung cancer-specific survivorship program, emphasizing the holistic well-being of patients and caregivers. The third component, under the guidance of Dr. Timothy Mullett and Dr. Jennifer Redmond Knight, aims to promote evidence-based prevention and early detection through rigorous statewide screening programs.

Championing Survivorship and Screening

Dr. Studts leads the effort to establish a lung cancer-specific survivorship program, recognizing the need for comprehensive care that addresses both immediate and long-term effects of the disease and treatment. In parallel, the collaboration focuses on promoting evidence-based prevention and early detection through the implementation of high-quality lung cancer screening programs. Lung Cancer Alliance, a key partner in the project, will contribute to program design, administration, and communication support for both survivorship and screening initiatives.

A Unified Coalition for Change

This groundbreaking initiative transcends individual institutions, involving collaboration from the Kentucky Cancer Consortium, the Kentucky Clinical Trials Network, the Markey Cancer Foundation, the Kentucky Cancer Foundation, and various community-based stakeholder groups. The involvement of diverse organizations signifies a unified front against lung cancer, fostering hope for significant progress in reducing its impact on the people of Kentucky.

The Kentucky LEADS Collaborative emerges as a beacon of hope, pioneering a multifaceted approach to tackle the lung cancer crisis. With the generous support of the Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation, this initiative not only addresses the immediate challenges posed by lung cancer but also lays the groundwork for comprehensive, sustainable solutions. As Kentucky takes the lead in this unprecedented collaboration, the impact is poised to extend beyond state borders, setting a precedent for other regions to follow in the fight against lung cancer.





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The Global University Employability Ranking 2023-24, crafted by HR consultancy Emerging and exclusively published by Times Higher Education, spotlights 51 US universities that stand out for their commitment to preparing students for the professional world.

Notably, this ranking delves beyond academic prestige, focusing on which institutions recruiters at leading companies believe are adept at equipping graduates for the workforce. In this exploration, we unravel the top 10 performers, shedding light on their unique approaches and regional nuances.

Top 10 US Universities for Graduate Employability:

1. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Located in California, Caltech boasts a high percentage of graduates entering the workforce promptly. The Career Development Center hosts networking sessions and biannual career fairs, engaging 150 recruiters.

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

MIT graduates have contributed to groundbreaking technologies like 3D printing and bionic prostheses. Notable alumni include 89 Nobel laureates, 58 National Medal of Science winners, and 48 MacArthur fellows.

3. Stanford University

Situated in Silicon Valley, Stanford affiliates' firms generate over $2.7 trillion in annual revenues. Alumni-founded companies include Google, Nike, Netflix, and non-profits like Kiva and SIRUM.

4. Harvard University

Based in Massachusetts, Harvard maintains a strong global reputation for academic excellence. Its graduates often excel in various fields, contributing to a diverse range of industries.

5. Princeton University

Located in New Jersey, Princeton focuses on providing a comprehensive education. The university emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills crucial for diverse career paths.

6. Yale University

Located in Connecticut, Yale's commitment to holistic education contributes to well-rounded graduates. The university prepares students for varied professions through a liberal arts approach.

7. Columbia University

Situated in New York, Columbia's diverse programs cater to a wide array of career aspirations. The university's global network fosters connections for students entering the workforce.

8. New York University (NYU)

Based in New York, NYU's urban campus exposes students to a vibrant professional environment. The university prioritizes practical skills development alongside academic excellence.

9. University of California, Berkeley

Located in California, UC Berkeley offers quality education with relatively lower tuition fees. The university's commitment to innovation and research contributes to its employability ranking.

10. Boston University

Situated in Massachusetts, Boston University emphasizes experiential learning and real-world applications. Strong industry connections and internship opportunities contribute to students' employability.

READ ALSO: Want To Study Engineering In The US? Here Are The Top 10 Universities

Trends in Graduate Employability

The Global University Employability Ranking reflects a broader trend where universities, regardless of their prestigious status, are evaluated based on their ability to prepare students for practical success in the job market. State universities, like the University of California, Berkeley, often stand out for providing high-quality education with more affordable tuition fees, attracting both domestic and international students seeking value for money.

Challenges and Opportunities

While tuition fees at US universities vary widely, the employability ranking underscores the significance of considering not just academic reputation but also the likelihood of graduates succeeding in their future careers. The collaboration between academia and industry, as exemplified by initiatives like the Kentucky LEADS Collaborative, becomes crucial in addressing regional challenges, such as Kentucky's high prevalence of lung cancer. This collaborative effort, backed by a $7 million grant, aims to reduce the burden of lung cancer through innovative approaches, reflecting a growing emphasis on practical impact in education.

As the landscape of higher education evolves, the emphasis on employability becomes a guiding principle for universities worldwide. The recognition of US universities in the Global University Employability Ranking 2023-24 signals their commitment to preparing students not just academically but also practically. As universities strive to balance academic rigor with real-world readiness, students benefit from a holistic education that equips them for the challenges and opportunities of a dynamic job market.



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Utah Governor Spencer Cox has stirred controversy by discouraging public college presidents from taking stances on contentious political issues. In a recent news conference with the Utah Board of Education, Governor Cox asserted, "I do not care what your position is on Israel and Palestine. I don't. We don't need our institutions to take a position on those things."

Cox's directive places public college leaders in a challenging position, as they often navigate competing demands from students, alumni, and trustees while deciding which issues to engage with publicly. The governor's statement comes amid recent controversies sparked by college presidents' comments on sensitive topics, particularly the Israel-Hamas conflict.

A Call for Silence on Political Matters

Governor Cox went further, suggesting that if college presidents wish to express political opinions, they should consider running for office instead. This move reflects a growing trend of public figures cautioning institutions against wading into politically charged waters.

This directive from Cox follows former Utah Governor Jon Huntsman's accusations against his alma mater, the University of Pennsylvania, for what he perceived as an inadequate statement on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Huntsman even threatened to withhold donations, illustrating the potential financial consequences institutions may face due to the perceived inadequacy of their responses to politically sensitive issues.

READ ALSO: Clash Between Politics And Education At Indiana University Threatens Academic Freedom

Backlash Over Israel-Hamas Statements

The University of Pennsylvania is not alone in facing backlash from donors over statements related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Several institutions have encountered criticism from constituents who believe their responses either lacked sufficient support for Israel or condemnation of Hamas. Simultaneously, other critics argue that colleges are too swift to back Israel without adequately addressing concerns about the oppression of Palestinians.

Penn President Liz Magill, amidst the controversy, is set to testify at a congressional hearing on antisemitism. She will be joined by the presidents of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, addressing the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.

Balancing Act for College Presidents

College presidents find themselves in a delicate balancing act, needing to navigate the expectations and demands of various stakeholders while maintaining the institution's commitment to free expression and intellectual diversity. The recent call for silence on political matters adds another layer of complexity to their leadership roles.

Governor Cox's assertion that college leaders should refrain from taking positions on hot-button issues raises questions about the appropriate role of educational institutions in societal debates. Critics argue that silencing college presidents may stifle academic freedom and hinder universities' ability to contribute to crucial discussions.

The Role of Universities in Political Discourse

The debate over whether universities should take explicit positions on political matters is not new. Academic institutions have historically been spaces for critical thinking, debate, and the exchange of ideas. However, as political polarization intensifies, institutions face increasing pressure to take clear stances on sensitive issues.

The recent controversies highlight the challenge of pleasing diverse constituencies, including students, alumni, and donors, who may hold divergent views on politically charged topics. Striking a balance between supporting free expression and addressing the concerns of stakeholders is an ongoing struggle for college leaders.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox's call for public college presidents to abstain from making statements on contentious political issues adds fuel to an already heated debate surrounding the role of educational institutions in societal discourse. As college presidents grapple with competing demands and navigate potential financial repercussions, the broader question of the appropriate intersection between academia and politics continues to be a source of contention.

RELATED ARTICLE: Presidents Of Top US Universities To Address Campus Antisemitism Issues Before Congress
UNODC-supported Border Liaison Office in Tajikistan intercepts shipment of around 72 kilograms of heroin

Interagency cooperation, intelligence-sharing and information exchange among law enforcement agencies in Central Asian countries play a key role in fighting against drug trafficking. UNODC has been concentrating its efforts on supporting the vulnerable border areas by strengthening the border crossing points and establishing working intelligence-sharing and enhanced cross-border communication mechanisms allowing detection and interception of contraband, including narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals.

On 21 November 2023, officers stationed at the UNODC-supported Border Liaison Office (BLO) at the Fotehobod border crossing point located in the Sughd region of Tajikistan intercepted a large shipment of narcotic drugs.

During the inspection of a motor truck that arrived at the border crossing point, the BLO officers found 65 polyethylene wrappages containing 71 kg and 110 grams of heroin.

In recognition of the invaluable support of the UNODC in the prevention of illicit drug trafficking, Lieutenant General Khurshed Karimzoda, Head of the Customs Service under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, sent a letter of appreciation to Yusuf Kurbonov, International Programme Coordinator, UNODC Regional Office for Central Asia (ROCA). Lieutenant General Karimzoda expressed his agencys gratitude to UNODC ROCA for its continued support in the provision of technical equipment and the professional development of the officers.

Thanks to cooperation with UNODC, customs officers have been provided with unique opportunities to attend various training courses and workshops specifically designed to effectively combat and prevent the trafficking of narcotic drugs as well as other smuggled goods.

The knowledge, skills, and new technologies provided have significantly strengthened the capacity of officers to prevent illegal activities at the state border. Through cooperation with UNODC, the Customs Service continues to enhance the officers capacities and maintain their high professionalism in combating illicit drug trafficking.

We look forward to further cooperation with UNODC in our joint fight against organized crime and illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs. Joint efforts and cooperation are not only key to our continued success but also a prerequisite for achieving our common goals of ensuring security and sustainable development, noted Lieutenant General Khurshed Karimzoda in the letter.

BLO at the Fotehobod BCP on the Tajik-Uzbek border is one of 24 BLOs in the Central Asian region established at the key border crossing points under the Regional Project on Enhancing Cross-Border Cooperation by Strengthening the Capacity of Border Liaison Offices in Central Asia of Sub-programme 1 Preventing and Countering Transnational Organized Crime of the UNODC Programme for Central Asia 2022-2025.

It is the first project to establish BLOs in Central Asia, and its stakeholders are the Ministries of Internal Affairs, Border Troops, Customs and Drug Control Agencies of each country.

The project strengthens the capacities of officers working at the BLOs representing all law enforcement agencies in countering transnational organized crime, including through various training programmes and the provision of cutting-edge equipment.

The project is funded by the Government of Japan. The implementation of the project in Turkmenistan is funded by the U.S. Department of States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).

*The photos are taken from the website of the Customs Service under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan.

For further information, please contact:

Nurangez Abdulhamidova

Communications and External Relations Specialist

UNODC Regional Office for Central Asia

Email: nurangez.abdulhamidova[at]un.org
Caretaker Punjab Health Minister Professor Dr. Javed Akram expressed gratitude to the dedicated team of doctors and nurses who played a crucial role in the recovery of Rizwana, a victim of domestic violence.

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Dec, 2023) Caretaker Punjab Health Minister Professor Dr. Javed Akram expressed gratitude to the dedicated team of doctors and nurses who played a crucial role in the recovery of Rizwana, a victim of domestic violence.

In a press conference at Lahore General Hospital on Wednesday, the minister highlighted that Rizwana underwent 13 surgeries during her four-month treatment at the hospital and was now on the path to recovery.

Addressing Rizwana as the "daughter of the nation," Dr. Javed Akram announced her referral to Child Protection and Welfare Bureau and Social Welfare and Baitul Mal for education and training. A committee, comprising the Chairperson of Child Protection and Welfare Bureau and officers from the Department of Social Welfare and Bait ul Mal, has been formed to ensure continued care for Rizwana.

Principal Ameer-ud-Din Medical College Professor Dr. Sardar Zafar Al Farid highlighted Rizwana's remarkable progress, noting that her immunity, which was initially at zero, had significantly improved. In a heartwarming gesture, the minister personally visited Rizwana in her room, presenting her with a school bag, school shoes, and other gifts.

Among the attendees were Chairperson Child Protection and Welfare Bureau Sarah Ahmed, MS General Hospital Professor Dr. Nudrat, MS Punjab Institute of Neurosciences Professor Dr. Jodat Saleem, and other faculty members. The event marked a collaborative effort to support and uplift the survivor, emphasizing the importance of community and institutional care for victims of domestic violence.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar said that the nation should not have any doubts about the general elections, scheduled to be held on February 8, 2024

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Dec, 2023) Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar said that the nation should not have any doubts about the general elections, scheduled to be held on February 8, 2024.

"I have no doubt about it... The concerns are often associated with our political system. We have a history of our own," he remarked in an interview with Independent Urdu, published on Wednesday.

The prime minister expressed the hope that the elections would be held in free and fair manner.

To a question, he said he did not consider the general elections of the 70s as a benchmark either as many people had different opinions about those polls.

"Of course, they were very transparent. At that time, it was already decided before the elections which way they would go to, so I consider it a problem," he added.

He said as the arrangements were in place, and he was hopeful that the caretaker government would

be able to give results in a relatively better way.

The prime minister said that he endorsed the Election Commission's denial of any delay in the polls.

"They (Election Commission) have to conduct (elections). We are with them."

He said as per the Election Commission, the election schedule will cover 56 days, based on which the schedule should be announced by December 14.

Asked about the notions of elections being associated with the decline in Imran Khan's popularity and his exclusion from the electoral process, the prime minister termed it a political analysis.

However, the elections would judge the popularity of any political leader, he commented.

To a question about the participation of Imran Khan or his party in the general elections, he that there was no restriction on him as yet.

"However, if something unusual comes up, I can't say anything about it . As of today, they are in a position to contest elections and they will contest."

About the disappearances and resurfacing of PTI leaders, the prime minister said such people went into hiding, fearing arrest for their involvement in attacks on state institutions on May 9.

He said while in hiding, they would have second thought to leave PTI or politics which was their personal decision.

He said that no evidence of 'state coercion' had come to his knowledge, and even none of those people had spoken of 'state coercion'. Until then, it's just allegations, he added.

Prime Minister Kakar disagreed with the view that the decision of May 9 arson should be left to the people for elections. He also rejected the allegations of not having a level playing field.

Coming to the economic situation, he expressed his satisfaction with his government's efforts so far to improve the national economy.

"They will leave the blueprint for the rest of the work to the next government," he remarked.

Discussing the PIA, he rubbished the allegations of any malpractice in privatisation process and said such conspiratorial assumptions had brought the country to that extent.

He said that expert advisors had been appointed for privatization.

"These are not union level talks. Best practices are being implemented.

They will advise in accordance with the global market trend. They can be audited even 50 years from now," the prime minister said.

Discussing the repatriation of illegal foreigners from Pakistan, he said those having no travel documents would have to go back, though they might be back after obtaining the visa.

In response to a question regarding the phased evacuation, Prime Minister Kakar said that it was the discretionary power of the government. We believe that it needed to be done at once to show the seriousness of the government," he remarked.

To a question, he told the interviewer that there had been no formal negotiations with the Afghan Taliban at present.

"Our policy regarding TTP is clear. We consider them as an enemy of this society and state. We believe that fighting them is our survival, and we will fight till the last extent for the survival of this state," he added.

He denied the impression that Pakistan had any role in the Afghan Taliban's return to power.

Coming to the Israeli aggression on Gaza, the prime minister said a lot could have been done, but Pakistan was still trying to establish an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian corridor. There is always something that can be improved, he remarked.

He said that if the world had stood with the OIC and other countries, the pressure on Israel could have been increased.

He said on the sidelines of the COP 28 in Dubai, he discussed the issue in detail with the King of Jordan, US Senator Kerry, Muhammad bin Zayed and the Crown Prince of Kuwait.

Prime Minister Kakar expressed the fear that if continued, the Israeli aggression could also impact the entire Gulf and the world.

About the rumours in the country about establishing relations with Israel before October 7, he said that no such discussion was ever made at any level within the government.

Prime Minister Kakar, who recently returned after attending the COP 28, said that funds under Loss and Damage Fund were yet to be allocated.
Caretaker Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi said on Wednesday that Multan had always been a cradle for arts and literature

MULTAN, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Dec, 2023) Caretaker Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi said on Wednesday that Multan had always been a cradle for arts and literature.

Delivering his speech at an inauguration ceremony ptv Multan Center's 24-hour transmission through satellite, he said extended transmission would open new avenues of opportunities for the poets and artists of the region.

Solangi said he had pride and honour in the fact that the round-the-clock transmission of Multan Center had formally commenced. "It is a matter of pride for me and the people of this region", he added.

The federal minister, referring to the region's illustrious past, noted that it had been the home of mystics and saints whose contributions to humanity had a global impact.

He underscored the region's substantial contributions to the field of arts and literature, citing renowned figures such as Pathanay Khan, Surriya Multanikar, Hussain Bukhash, Badru Multani, Zahida Parveen, Rahat Multanikar, and Mansoor Malangi.

He also eulogized the great work of poets like Khawaja Ghulam Fareed, Ahmed Khan Tariq, Shakir Hussain Shujabadi, Raffat Abbas, Aashique Buzdar, Iqbal Sokari and others.

Solangi pointed out that it was a longstanding demand and request of people to shift PTV Multan onto satellite platforms. Now, PTV National (Multan) would be watched in almost 50 countries, he added.

Reflecting on his tenure as Director General of Radio Pakistan, he recalled the introduction of the Seraiki Bulletin, with then Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani being the first to appreciate and endorse the initiative by reading the maiden bulletin.

Lauding the news and Current Affairs department at PTV Multan for its commendable performance, Solangi affirmed the government's commitment to promoting and showcasing the cultural richness of the region through enhanced broadcasting facilities. A colourful music programme followed the inaugural ceremony.

Caretaker Federal Minister for Information Murtaza Solangi also inaugurated the latest Khawaja Ghulam Farid Studio Block at Radio Pakistan Multan Centre. When the minister reached the Radio Pakistan Multan Center, he was welcomed by DG Saeed Ahmed Sheikh and the team of officials.

State-of-the-art digital studios have been constructed in Khwaja Ghulam Fareed studio block . On this occasion, the caretaker federal minister also held informal talks with writers, poets, journalists and folk artists from South Punjab.

He said that the caretaker government had specific time-frame and limited powers. " We do not enjoy the power to make major decisions; we are trying to do the best in the limited time". He said that according to the law, all corporations including Radio Pakistan have to be run according to the decisions of board of directors.

He said legislation had been enacted to improve corporate governance. However, he said freedom of corporations will not be affected in any manner.

Solangi assured all possible cooperation for solution of the problems of Radio Pakistan Multan.

APP/atf-mhn- nvd
Santa Claus is real, or at least the inspiration for the character was. Saint Nicholas was a historical figure that lived around the 4th century. However, very little is known about his life and historians debate about several events that mention him, including stories and legends that made him become one of the most beloved Christian saints in the next centuries.

Although Santa Claus is probably more well-known  as well as Christmas , Saint Nicholas is still celebrated in some parts of the world, with old traditions (that influenced new ones).

Who was Saint Nicholas?

According to Christian accounts, Nicholas was born in a rich family around the year 343, in Patara (Lycia et Pamphylia), a port on the Mediterranean Sea, in Asia Minor, in the Roman Empire. After his parents died during an epidemic, he received a divine call to sell his belongings and give his money to the poor, which he did. Some accounts say that he had an uncle who was the Bishop of Myra and that, after recognizing his nephews calling, he ordained him as a priest.

One of the most famous stories about Nicholas says that he once heard of a faithful father of three young girls who needed help. The man had once been wealthy but he lost all his money, so he could not afford proper dowries for his daughters, which would result in them being unmarried and probably be forced into prostitution. Nicholas decided to help; however, he was too modest to offer public help, so he went to the house in the night and threw a purse with gold coins through a window. The father quickly arranged a marriage for his first daughter. After she married, Nicholas threw another bag through the window and the man arranged a wedding for the second daughter.

Before Nicholas could throw another bag for the third daughter, he was discovered by the father, who immediately fell on his knees thanking him. Nicholas ordered him to keep the favor a secret.

A man dressed as St. Nicholas poses with children holding gift presents at the man's residence, in Lviv, Ukraine. SOPA Images (LightRocket via Getty)

Another tale of Nicholas says he traveled to the Holy Land. Before arriving, his ship was almost destroyed by a storm but he miraculously made it stop. He became venerated as the patron saint of sailors and travelers. It is said that he also traveled to Palestine and Egypt. After returning to Lycia, he became Bishop of Myra, taking the place of his uncle.

Under the rule of Roman Emperor Diocletian, Christians were persecuted. Because of his work, Nicholas was exiled, imprisoned and tortured. However, after Constantine the Great became Emperor, he was released.

It is said that Nicholas was one of the attendees of the First Council of Nicaea, a council of every bishop of the Christian church within the Roman Empire. A later legend holds that, during the Council, Nicholas punched Arius, who he considered a heretic.

Other stories about Nicholas portray him as benevolent to children. It is said that he resurrected three children that had died after a famine, and that  after requesting wheat from a group of sailors to feed the starved  they gave him a part. After arriving to their destination, they found that their load had not changed.

After his stories became known to Christian followers, thousands of churches were dedicated to him, including one built by Roman emperor Justinian I at Constantinople around the 6th century. Nicholas relics remain in the basilica of San Nicola at Bari which to this day is visited by pilgrims and tourists in southern Italy, but other churches around the world have acquired fragments. St. Nicholas is still venerated by Catholics and Orthodox, and honored by Protestants.

A man in the costume of St. Nicholas performs during the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the Universytet metro station, Kharkiv, northeastern Ukraine. Future Publishing (via Getty Images)

Saint Nicholas Day

The Feast of Saint Nicholas, also known as Saint Nicholas Day, is observed on 5 or 6 December in Western Christian countries. There are different traditions in several European countries linked to children expecting gifts. For example, in Poland and Ukraine, children expect Nicholas to come and give them a present under their pillows. In the Netherlands and Belgium there are similar customs. In some parts of the U.S., children leave their shoes in the foyer, expecting to receive coins from Nicholas. In some countries, the feast is celebrated on the 6, while others do it on the eve of the 5.

These traditions directly influenced modern Christmas; the American Santa Claus and the British Father Christmas are variations of Saint Nicholas.

Whats his connection to Christmas?

After the era of Reformation, in which the Christian church suffered various changes, most Protestant countries in Europe stopped venerating Nicholas, except for Holland, where he became known as Sinterklaas, which was a Dutch variant of his name. Religious colonists from that country who arrived in America in the 17th century took the tradition of Sinterklass with them, later becoming Santa Claus for the English-speaking majority.

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ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Dec, 2023) Samina Alvi, wife of President Dr Arif Alvi on Wednesday emphasized the need for providing opportunities to persons with disabilities to help them become part of mainstream economic activities.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the Network of Organizations Working with Persons with Disabilities Pakistan (NOWPDP), she said it was the joint responsibility of the State and the society to accommodate such people by ensuring the inclusive approach.

Samina Alvi said persons with disabilities comprised 10 to 12 percent of the countrys population, however, they lacked enough representation in society and public domains.

She regretted that due to negative attitudes towards disability, the families restricted their such members to homes and avoided their outdoor activities.

Also, the lack of infrastructure such as access ramps at public buildings and parks restricted the mobility of persons with disabilities, she added.

Samina Alvi urged for providing education to such students at mainstream schools to ensure their inclusion in society.

She stressed for the training of teachers and sensitizing society that persons with disabilities could play a positive role in society if provided with ample opportunities including assistive technology and rehabilitation services.

She recalled that a comprehensive awareness campaign was launched from the platform of the Presidency to raise awareness about mainstreaming persons with disabilities.

She mentioned that the campaign was supported by non-governmental organizations, chambers of commerce, and the media.

Also, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority relayed 120 million short messaging services on sensitization about persons with disabilities.

She urged the public and private sector departments including banks, chambers of commerce, and welfare foundations to adopt inclusive policies to accommodate persons with disabilities.

She lauded that the government and banks were extending easy loans to persons with disabilities to ensure their financial self-reliance. Also, the government is extending scholarships and fee waivers to such students at universities and other educational institutions.

Samina Alvi emphasized fulfilling the quota reserved for persons with disabilities in public jobs and also urged the private sector to follow suit.

She expressed satisfaction that NOWPDP was giving skill-based training to such persons as per market needs and helping them get employment.
Beijing, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Dec, 2023) China said Wednesday European Union export policies towards Beijing do not "make sense", on the eve of a high-level summit in the Chinese capital.

"If the EU imposes severe restrictions on the export of high-tech products to China on the one hand, and hopes to significantly increase exports to China on the other, I'm afraid it doesn't make sense," foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said.

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen, top EU diplomat Josep Borrell and Charles Michel, the president of the European Council, will be in Beijing on Thursday for the EU-China summit.

It will be the first in-person summit between the Brussels chiefs and Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang since 2019, and one of the key talking points will be trade.

Von der Leyen told AFP in an interview ahead of the talks that "European leaders will not tolerate over time an imbalance in the trade relationship".

"But we prefer to have negotiated solutions," she added.

Wang on Wednesday told a regular press conference that "China is a trustworthy and indispensable partner of the EU".

"Properly handling differences through dialogue and consultations is an important thing to go through for the development of China-EU relations," he said.

"We hope that the European side will work with China to meet each other halfway, create a positive atmosphere for the successful holding of the China-EU leaders' meeting, and make joint efforts for the healthy and stable development of China-EU relations," he added.

bur-je/sco
Dubai, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Dec, 2023) The European Union's climate chief said Wednesday that the UN's COP28 talks in Dubai must "mark the beginning of the end" of fossil fuels.

"This is a key part for the EU and ... of our negotiating mandate, meaning that all 27 European member states want this to be part of the negotiated outcome," European climate commission Wopke Hoekstra said at a news conference.
The Emirati head of UN climate talks faced growing pressure Wednesday to steer nations towards a consensus as negotiators sparred over the thorny issue of fossil fuels

Dubai, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Dec, 2023) The Emirati head of UN climate talks faced growing pressure Wednesday to steer nations towards a consensus as negotiators sparred over the thorny issue of fossil fuels.

A report confirming that 2023 will be the hottest year in recorded history was a reminder of the stakes as the UN negotiations hosted by the oil-rich UAE reached their midway point.

A new draft climate agreement had been expected on Wednesday but none was published by the end of the afternoon. The negotiations are due to end, in theory, on December 12.

The fate of oil, gas and coal -- the main drivers of human-caused planet heating -- has been the biggest sticking point on the agenda, and divisions around their future have dominated the conference.

"We have a starting text on the table, but it's a grab bag of ... wish lists and heavy on posturing," UN climate chief Simon Stiell told a news conference.

"At the end of next week, we need COP to deliver a bullet train to speed up climate action. We currently have an old caboose chugging over rickety tracks."

Urging embattled COP28 president Sultan Al Jaber to ease differences, Spain's Ecological Transition Minister Teresa Ribera said: "We expect from the COP president to be an honest broker and we expect leadership."

The Alliance of Small Islands States, which includes some of the world's most climate-vulnerable countries, called for "major emitters to enhance their commitments".

"If we fail, the consequences will be catastrophic," the alliance's chairman Cedric Schuster said.

- 'Orderly and just' -

Battle lines have previously been drawn on whether to agree to "phase out" or "phase down" fossil fuels.

However the latest text includes a new phrase calling for an "orderly and just" phase-out.

One person familiar with the talks said the word "orderly" came from Jaber, who also heads UAE national oil company ADNOC.

The language could signal a consensus candidate as it would give countries different timelines to cut emissions depending on their level of development and reliance on fossil fuels.

But there is another option: no mention at all of fossil fuels, which reflects opposition from nations including Saudi Arabia, Russia and China, according to several observers who attended the closed meetings.

During closed-door talks on Tuesday, Saudi Arabia again opposed any mention of fossils, saying it would avoid "the trauma of explaining our position ... that is well noted and clear," according to meeting participants.

China, India and a group representing Arab states have called for the deletion of an entire paragraph on an energy package, while Russia proposed adding text on gas as a "transition fuel," the participants said.

- 'Temperature will keep rising' -

With flagrant divisions coming to the fore, Europe has called for a harder line.

"I want this COP to mark the beginning of the end for fossil fuels," European climate commissioner Wopke Hoekstra said on Wednesday.

Germany's climate envoy Jennifer Morgan told AFP that "it is necessary that every party move away from their red lines (and) into solutions".

"We need to roll up our sleeves and get it done."

For his part, Stiell said the "key now is to sort the wheat from the chaff," urging a move towards consensus, while US climate envoy John Kerry stressed that "adults need to behave like adults".

The new draft must be brought to a large plenary meeting taking stock of the first week of talks ahead of a rest day on Thursday.

Meanwhile, the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service said on Wednesday that 2023 will be the hottest on record after November became the sixth record-breaking month in a row.

Last month smashed the previous November heat record, pushing 2023's global average temperature to 1.46C warmer than the pre-industrial era, the service said.

Copernicus head Carlo Buontempo said that "as long as greenhouse gas concentrations keep rising we can't expect different outcomes".

"The temperature will keep rising and so will the impacts of heatwaves and droughts."
Turkey has become internationally isolated and must dial down its rhetoric if it wants to win key concessions from the European Union, a top European official said Wednesday in Istanbul

Istanbul, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Dec, 2023) Turkey has become internationally isolated and must dial down its rhetoric if it wants to win key concessions from the European Union, a top European official said Wednesday in Istanbul.

Nacho Sanchez Amor, the European Parliament's rapporteur on Turkey, said Ankara's abrasive talk on foreign affairs was one of the main impediments to improving relations with Brussels.

Turkey is seeking to simplify European visa access for its citizens and to update a 1995 customs agreement with the bloc that could help boost exports.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell last week recommended offering Turkey both in return for a series of concessions.

These included Turkey clamping down on Russian sanctions evasion and progress on the issue of the divided island of Cyprus.

Sanchez Amor added another condition on the last day of a fact-finding mission to Turkey that included meetings with opposition groups.

"You are completely isolated. The only real friend you have is Azerbaijan," Sanchez Amor said.

Turkey has been an official candidate to join the European Union since 1999.
Washington, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Dec, 2023) Several Republican senators walked out of a classified briefing on Ukraine Tuesday as it descended into a row over the border crisis, after President Volodymyr Zelensky unexpectedly canceled a videolink appearance to appeal for continued US funding.

Zelensky had been due to update the senators on the latest developments in the conflict with Russia and press for them to support a procedural vote expected Wednesday on an emergency aid package that includes more than $60 billion for Kyiv.

The cash has been held up for weeks by a row in Congress, as the White House has warned that existing funds will run out by the end of the year and that Russia's President Vladimir Putin could win the war if lawmakers fail to act.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced that Zelensky had been prevented from taking part by a "last minute" hiccup but he pressed ahead with the briefing anyway -- only for the proceedings to turn into a war of words.

Utah's Mitt Romney left early, confirming that "a number" of his Republican colleagues had followed suit, angry that they heard nothing on their demand that Ukraine aid be coupled with action on the migrant crisis at the US-Mexico border.

"The briefers were saying things we've all known, we can read about in any newspaper, had been said publicly," Romney told reporters.

"There's nothing new in what they're describing, and Republicans are saying that there's support for Ukraine, but there has to be security of our border."

Congress is more divided over backing for Ukraine than it has been at any time during the nearly two-year conflict, with the country fast exhausting the military aid provided by the United States so far.

Senate Republicans are making their support for extra Ukraine funding contingent on President Joe Biden's Democrats accepting reforms of the asylum system and tightened border security -- measures the Democrats have already rejected.

"Republicans are just walking out of the briefing because the people there are not willing to actually discuss what it takes to get a deal done," Romney said.

Schumer was quoted by Fox news as saying the briefing had been "immediately hijacked" by Republicans choosing to make a speech on border security rather than asking questions about Ukraine.

One member was "screaming" an admonishment at briefers about not having visited the border, Schumer reportedly said.

The Democrat has teed up a vote Wednesday on clearing the first procedural hurdle for addressing Biden's $106 billion aid request for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan.

But it needs 60 votes in the 100-member Senate, and the 49-strong Republican minority looks likely to defeat the package as it leaves out their immigration reforms.

"The number one most immediate threat to our national security is an open border," Kansas Republican Roger Marshall said outside the briefing room.

"Look, everything has been said about Ukraine that can be said. And what's not being said is what's so critical here."

Even if the two sides manage to hammer out a deal in the Senate, it will be a much tougher sell for the Republican-led House, where conservatives have been more skeptical about funding Ukraine, and just as keen to leverage the issue to secure border reforms.

House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed publicly for the first time in a letter to the White House Tuesday that his party will not pass Ukraine aid unless Congress enacts "transformative change to our nation's border security laws."

But Democrats reacted angrily to what they see as an attempt by Republicans to leverage the conflict to secure domestic priorities.

"I have lots of domestic issues I care about too. I'm not holding Ukraine hostage to the resolution of health care or gun violence," Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut told reporters.

"They made a choice to put Ukraine funding in jeopardy and they will all have to live with that choice when Vladimir Putin marches into Kyiv and through into Europe."
The World Press Photo Contest's Photo of the Year, in which a pregnant woman is evacuated on a stretcher from a children's hospital in Mariupol, after a Russian bombing. Both the woman and her child died.

The cover of the 2023 Yearbook by the World Press Photo Contest does not show the image that won the Photo of the Year award, as is usually the case. The winning photo  taken by Ukrainian photographer Evgeniy Maloletka for the Associated Press  shows Irina Kalinina, a 32-year-old pregnant woman who was injured in a Russian bombing on a hospital, being taken away on a stretcher. The image was taken on March 9, 2022, in the Ukrainian city of Mariupol. Irinas baby was stillborn, and she died half an hour later.

The World Press Photo Contest, however, has decided not to publish the image on the cover of the 2023 Yearbook. It was more appropriate to use another photo for the cover because it is a book that will be displayed in museum gift shops and bookstores, Joumana El Zein Khoury, the executive director of the World Press Photo Foundation, told EL PAIS by email.

For the cover, the World Press Photo Contest chose instead an image by Iranian photographer Ahmad Halabisaz, which received an honorable mention. This photo portrays a young woman in a square in Tehran, dressed in Western clothing in defiance of Iranian law. The shot was taken by Halabisaz on December 27, 2022.

El Zein Khoury says that both photos document the injustice and the risks faced by the authors and their subjects. Maloletkas work is absolutely important and that is why she was awarded and figures prominently in the 2023 exhibition that tours the world, across 70 cities in 30 countries. The World Press Photo Contest justified its decision not to include Maloletkas photo on the cover on its website: This is a conscious stance to show our respect towards the victims and our rage against the inhuman loss of lives.

The only criterion for the cover, says El Zein Khoury, is to make the images known in an accessible way to a broad and international public.

This is not the first time that the contest has decided not to publish the Photo of the Year on the cover of its yearbook. The decision made is part of a broader change that has been taking place in the last five years, which is not to use explicit images for commercial purposes or in promotion. Others that have less explicit violent content are also chosen for the posters that announce the exhibition in the cities, Marika Cukrowski, the World Press Photo curator, told EL PAIS. The decision, taken jointly by the jury and the organization, was decided very soon, almost immediately after the winner was chosen. She said that both photographers understood and agreed on the ruling.

The cover of the '2023 Yearbook' by World Press Photo Contest.

The main person affected by the decision is Maloletka. I saw the cover of the book with the other image when I received the award. Ahmads photo has no sensitive information [in the sense that it might hurt sensitivities], unlike mine. Thats probably why this decision was made, she told EL PAIS by email. For her, her image of Irina sparked a debate and explained what Russia was doing, destroying Ukrainian cities with no regard for casualties, even if they were children. The photo also illustrated a fact that Russia tried to hide and could not, and that Russian propaganda tried to discredit journalists with false accusations.

Halabisaz, for her part, explains that todays photojournalism is not just about war, blood and natural disasters. In an email, she explained that her photo sheds light on the tireless efforts of Iranian women fighting for their rights in the 21st century. She took the shot in one minute, at risk and without permission. Halabisaz says she spent 27 days in prison for covering the protests in Tehran.

The Spanish photojournalist Santi Palacios, who won second prize at the 2017 World Press Photo, disagrees with the organizations decision. It is one more sign of what is happening. The fact there is so much concern about not showing explicit images ends up disguising the world seen from photojournalism. Furthermore, the winning image was already seen everywhere. Palacios points out that more and more explicit images are seen on social media, while limitations are placed on the professional [photographer]. When what you have to do is protect them.

Palacios was also a member of the jury for the European region of this years World Press Photo Contest. The awards are divided into four categories: Singles, Stories, Long-Term Projects and Open Format. The juries from the six worldwide regions  Africa, Asia, Europe, North and Central America, South America, and Southeast Asia and Oceania  chose the best images from their section. The final jury, which selects the winners, is made up of one member from each of the regional committees and a global president.

Behind the decisions there is good intention and a lot of work to find balances between the different aspects, said Palacios. When asked how would he have reacted if his photo was not allowed on the cover, he said: It would make me angry, even though the jurys decision may be justified.

Sandra Balsells, another award-winning photojournalist, told EL PAIS that the winning photo shows the carnage of that war against civilians, but it is respectful. She wonders if the same decision would have been made if Irina had survived. Balsells added: Its strange that if youve been brave enough to support a photo, that you then make it invisible by not giving it the cover of the catalog.

Presentation of the World Press Photo exhibition in Madrid, on November 30, with the image chosen for the catalog, in a photo provided by the organization.

Other years that the winning photo was not on the cover This is not the first time that the World Press Photo Contest has not used the Photo of the Year for the cover of its yearbook. In 1974, it opted not to use the winning image by Orlando Lagos, which showed Chilean president Salvador Allende being forcibly led out of La Moneda presidential palace during the military coup. Nor did the organization publish on the cover the 1983 winner by U.S. photographer Robin Moyer, which depicted the Palestinian victims of the Sabra and Shatila massacre during the Lebanese Civil War. And in 1993, it also chose a different image for the cover. The winning image that year was by American photographer James Nachtwey and showed a Somali woman carrying her starving son in her arms to a mass grave.

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50 Years of Luxembourg-Vietnam Relations Sees Two-Way Trade Stronger than Ever

Vietnam and Luxembourg celebrated 50 years of diplomatic relations last month. To mark the occasion, Vietnam Briefing looks at the trading relationship between these two countries.

Vietnam and Luxembourg have a long and productive trading history. With diplomatic relations normalized back in 1973, the two countries have progressively become more and more intertwined in international trade. This has been helped along by the proactive approach to boosting trade ties taken by the two countries.

In fact, the Prime Minister of Luxembourg, Xavier Bettel, was in Vietnam earlier this year and met with Vietnams Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. The two leaders discussed a range of issues and went on to sign an agreement on a strategic partnership in green finance between the two countries.

Other areas of cooperation include personnel training, capacity building, institutional building, technology transfer, and financial assistance for agriculture and climate change response, in order to achieve green growth and sustainable and inclusive development, according to VN Economy.

The Luxembourg Prime Minister is just one in a long line of European Union leaders to visit the Southeast Asian nation as the bloc and one of the worlds fastest-growing economies cleave closer together.

Its with this in mind, that the Vietnam Briefing provides the following snapshot of trade between these two countries.

Trade rules and regulations: Vietnam and Luxembourg

With Luxembourg part of the European Union, trade between the country and Vietnam is governed by trade agreements negotiated and implemented by the EU as a whole. These include:

EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA)

The EVFTA is an ambitious pact set to eliminate almost 99 percent of customs duties between the EU and Vietnam. This agreement is expected to increase Vietnams GDP by 4.6 percent and its exports to the EU by 42.7 percent by 2025, according to the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI). The European Commission also forecast the EUs GDP to increase by US$29.5 billion as a result of the agreement.

EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA)

Currently in the works is the EVIPA. This agreement would help to protect European enterprises investing in Vietnam and vice-versa. Luxembourg has already ratified the agreement, however, there are still a number of EU states that need to do so in order for the agreement to go into effect.

Luxembourg FDI in Vietnam

As the relationship between Luxembourg and Vietnam has grown stronger, billions of dollars of foreign direct investment (FDI) from the relatively tiny European enclave has made its way to Vietnam. At the end of 2022, Luxembourg had initiated 61 projects in Vietnam to which it had contributed capital worth just over US$2.6 billion. According to Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Luxembourg is the third-largest European investor in Vietnam.

Luxembourg exports to Vietnam

In the Vietnam-Luxembourg trading relationship, Vietnam comes out on top in terms of trade. Luxembourgs exports to Vietnam are worth just under half of that of Vietnams exports to Luxembourg. This is in line with lower labor costs in Vietnam and its growing role as a key manufacturing center as a result.

Luxembourg exports to Vietnam, 2022

Description Value (US$) Other products 56,956,600 Total 56,956,600

Source: Department of Customs

Vietnams exports to Luxembourg

For a nation the size of Luxembourg, with a population of just 640,000, the value of goods it imports from Vietnam is somewhat remarkable. In 2022, Luxembourg imported US$130 million worth of goods from Vietnam or around US$200 worth of goods for each of its citizens. These imports are mostly in apparel, including footwear, and textiles and garments.

Vietnam exports to Luxembourg, 2022

Description Value (US$) Footwear 78,530,915 Tyre cord fabrics and other fabrics for technical uses 38,610,197 Other products 7,737,730 Textiles and garments 5,266,615 Total 130,145,457

Source: Department of Customs

The future of trade between Luxembourg and Vietnam

As the EVFTA heads into its fourth year in operation, trade between the bloc and Vietnam is expected to grow even stronger, this includes Vietnams two-way trade with Luxembourg.

Furthermore, with an already well-established and strong FDI base in Vietnam, and the EVIPA moving forward (albeit slowly), the huge volume of FDI Luxembourg has invested in the Southeast Asian nations, is likely to continue to grow.

That said, market entry into Vietnam can sometimes be challenging and Luxembourg firms would be well advised to consult local professionals like the business advisory experts at Dezan Shira and Associate for support and guidance.
Two Afghan insurgent groups, made up mainly of former government and military officials, claim to have killed at least 50 Taliban officials and soldiers during November.

The hit-and-run insurgency has been most active in the north and northeast of the country where the Taliban encountered significant resistance during their previous rule from 1996 to 2001.

In brief statements in Dari and English posted on X, the Afghanistan Freedom Front and the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan claimed their fighters regularly target members of the Taliban at checkpoints, military bases and even on highways.

So far, the Taliban have played down the armed insurgency, saying peace and tranquility have been fully restored throughout the country.

The Afghan media have suffered major setbacks under the Taliban regime, making it difficult to access accurate information and to verify claims made by the insurgent groups.

"At this stage, there is little reason to suppose that these insurgent groups pose a significant threat to overall Taliban rule," said Robert Grenier, former head of counterterrorism at the Central Intelligence Agency who also worked with anti-Taliban groups before 2001.

"As someone who was actively involved in trying to organize and motivate anti-Taliban groups and commanders  of which there were many  in the period just prior to 9/11, I can attest to the difficulty in organizing any sort of effective insurgency against Taliban rule. One of the reasons for this is the demonstrated brutality of the Taliban in dealing with perceived enemies," Grenier told VOA via email.

The United Nations and human rights groups accuse the Taliban of extrajudicial killings, detentions, torture and disappearances of individuals suspected of supporting anti-Taliban groups.

Since their inception in 1994, the Taliban have used brutal force to suppress armed opposition to their rule, but it is unclear how many insurgent fighters they have killed since reclaiming power more than two years ago.

The insurgents lack enough forces to topple the Taliban, at least in the near future, but they appear to be creating political and governance challenges for the Islamist regime.

Political havens

Fighting the Taliban has become a contentious issue among former Afghan officials even while political opposition to the Taliban's monopoly on power and their extremist policies has grown stronger.

Two former Afghan presidents, Ashraf Ghani and Hamid Karzai, who separately led Afghanistan in its post-Taliban years, have opposed the toppling of the Taliban through war, advocating instead for a political settlement that would create an inclusive government.

While the Taliban regime is globally ostracized and condemned for its misogynistic policies, no country has so far offered support for a war against the Taliban.

Despite fighting the Taliban for 20 years and imposing terrorism sanctions on their leaders, the United States has refrained from supporting anti-Taliban insurgents.

In October, the British government announced it was strongly discouraging groups and individuals seeking political change in Afghanistan through armed violence.

"Any effective insurgency against the Taliban would rely on foreign support and the availability of a safe haven outside the country," Grenier said, adding that the Taliban used safe havens in Pakistan for two decades while fighting Afghan and U.S. forces in Afghanistan.

While not supporting any warring party in Afghanistan, many countries have hosted the leaders of the anti-Taliban insurgent groups and other Afghan politicians who oppose the Taliban rule.

Recently, some former Afghan military officials who advocate for military and political campaigns against the Taliban opened the office of Afghanistan's United Front in the United States, raising the former Afghan flag on their office building.

"We need a little bit of help from your side," Sami Sadat, a former Afghan general and a leader of the United Front, told a U.S. House hearing last month. "We are ready to partner again, we are ready for the great sacrifice."

Taliban officials have publicly voiced frustration to countries hosting their opponents while most Taliban leaders are unable to travel because of United Nations sanctions.

Terrorism concerns

Islamic State Khorasan (IS-K), an affiliate of the Islamic State extremist group, reportedly poses the most potent threat to Taliban rule. In addition to targeting members of the Taliban, the group has perpetrated some of the deadliest attacks against religious minorities in Afghanistan.

"IS-K proved to be a resilient organization, attempting to plot attacks overseas and with bases of support in northern and eastern Afghanistan becoming more clandestine," Asfandyar Mir, an expert with the U.S. Institute of Peace, told VOA.

As the number of groups fighting the Taliban goes up, some experts warn about the possibility of yet another cycle of civil war in Afghanistan with potential terrorist threats to regional and global security.

Grenier, the former CIA official, said a resurgent IS-K in Afghanistan would pose greater security threats to regional governments than to the United States and its allies.

"We should remember that active IS operations in Western Europe were the result of active military operations by Western governments against them in Iraq and Syria, rather than on a desire to attack the West per se. Unlike al-Qa'ida, IS has always been far more focused on attacking regimes within the Islamic world, rather than on their perceived Western supporters," he said via email.

The United States government has evacuated and resettled thousands of members of the former Afghan forces, some of whom are seeking any kind of backing from the U.S. or its allies to intensify the war against the Taliban.

"Absent attacks on U.S. interests clearly emanating from Afghanistan, the U.S. will remain neutral," Grenier said.
Having lived a long time is the main risk factor for disease, but chronological age does not always tell us exactly how old we have become. Lifestyle and genetics can speed up or slow down the process, and medicine is researching ways to measure it accurately. Today, the journal Nature published the results of a study led by Tony Wyss-Coray, from Stanford University, in which researchers measured the specific aging of the bodys main organs to detect whether any are deteriorating at a faster rate than normal.

The system used is a blood test, which would make it relatively simple to employ to determine a persons state of health. The study published today analyzed blood plasma from over 5,000 people and observed that around 20% of those over 50 years of age had one organ aging at an accelerated rate and 1.7% of study participants had two or more of them. This accelerated aging, which is partly associated with organ-specific diseases, is related to an increased risk of death of between 20% and 50%, but not all organs have the same impact on health. Accelerated aging of the heart increased heart failure by 250%, while faster deterioration of the vascular system and the brain were associated with a greater probability of suffering Alzheimers disease in the future, as researchers were able to verify with patient samples taken 15 years ago to monitor aging processes.

To assess the aging of the different organs, the researchers evaluated the levels of nearly 5,000 proteins in blood samples from almost 1,400 people, most of whom were over 40 years of age. They identified all the proteins that appeared most frequently in specific organs and selected 858 that could be associated with each organ and, when found in excessive levels, warned of that organs accelerated aging. Using machine learning, researchers trained an algorithm that selected the proteins most closely related to each organs aging. While the aging of each individuals organs was somewhat in sync, as might be expected, there were also important differences that showed that some organs are particularly affected by the passage of time.

The goal of this type of work is to know well in advance that something is wrong with a particular organ so that preventive measures can be taken ahead of time. The test detected accelerated aging before there were symptoms, but, as the follow-up data showed, this faster aging increased the risk of disease and death in the future. The brains accelerated aging increased the risk of death by 180%, while accelerated aging of the kidneys was associated with an increased risk of diabetes and hypertension.

This type of research creates the opportunity for us to precisely establish each organs rate of aging and thus its deterioration. With this [information], we could guide precise preventive medicine that would prescribe specific care and follow-up for each person based on observations of each organs biological age, Manuel Collado, a CNB-CSIC scientific researcher at the Santiago de Compostela Institute of Public Health, told Spains Science Media Centre.

Around the world, researchers are investigating this potential tool for the precise diagnosis of accelerated aging. In April of this year, a team from the University of Melbourne in Australia published a study in Nature Medicine explaining how the accelerated aging of some organs eventually affects the aging of others and increases the risk of death. Deviations from expected aging-related decline can be detected in certain organs (but not all) years before disease diagnosis, they wrote. According to the authors, these deviations predict mortality, even when chronological age, disease burden, and other risk factors are taken into account, and they could be used to identify individuals with accelerated organ aging before the onset of disease who might benefit from interventions to slow the aging of specific organs or body systems.

Wyss-Coray, the author of the study published today in Nature, has spent more than a decade examining the blood for differences between young and old organisms. After observing that blood transfusions from young to old mice improved the functioning of many organs, including the brain, he founded Alkahest. Now owned by the Spanish pharmaceutical company Grifols, the company is testing the effects of transfusing plasma from young people into elderly Alzheimers patients. In regard to the latest results, Wyss-Coray believes that identifying the specific proteins in each organ that best predict accelerated aging can be used to create drugs that slow down the process.

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Britain published draft emergency legislation on Wednesday that it hopes will allow its Rwandan migrant deportation plan to finally take off by bypassing domestic and international human rights laws that might block it.

The Safety of Rwanda Bill, published the day after Britain signed a new treaty with Rwanda, is designed to overcome a ruling by the United Kingdom Supreme Court that the government's proposed initiative to send thousands of asylum-seekers to the East African country was unlawful.

The government said that the bill was "the toughest immigration legislation ever introduced" and that it would be fast-tracked through parliament. But it suffered a blow when the immigration minister resigned over it.

It shows the divisiveness of the proposals in Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's governing Conservative Party, and it could also trigger further legal challenges.

"Through this new landmark emergency legislation, we will control our borders, deter people taking perilous journeys across the channel and end the continuous legal challenges filling our courts," Sunak said in a statement. He has vowed that flights would begin in the spring next year.

"We will disapply sections of the Human Rights Act from the key parts of the Bill, specifically in the case of Rwanda, to ensure our plan cannot be stopped," he said in the statement.

The bill will instruct judges to ignore some sections of the Human Rights Act and "any other provision or rule of domestic law, and any interpretation of international law by the court or tribunal" that might deem that Rwanda was not a safe country to send asylum- seekers.

Ministers alone would also decide on whether to comply with any injunction from the European Court of Human Rights, which issued an interim order blocking the first planned flight last year.

The Rwanda plan is at the center of Sunak's immigration policy, and its success is likely to be key to the fortunes of his Conservative Party, trailing by about 20 points in opinion polls, before an election expected next year and with the issue one of the biggest concerns among voters.

It was not clear whether the bill will satisfy Sunak's critics on the right of the party who have called for Britain to leave the European Convention on Human Rights altogether. Earlier, former Home Minister Suella Braverman warned that a weak bill would lead to "electoral oblivion."

Interior Minister James Cleverly confirmed that Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick had resigned from government after he was absent from a debate in parliament on the issue.

Meanwhile, conservatives who had warned they might not support a bill that flouts international law welcomed assurances from the government that the measures were legal.

"It is a bill which is lawful. It is fair and it is necessary, because people will only stop coming here illegally when they know that they cannot stay here," Cleverly told parliament.

However, legal commentators said the new legislation would inevitably face challenges in the courts.

"If the government had wished to avoid legal challenges and had also had a high degree of confidence that Rwanda, in fact, is  and will continue to be  a safe place, it seems unlikely that it would have chosen to introduce a bill in this form," said Nick Vineall, chair of the Bar Council.

The government says the Rwanda initiative would deter migrants from paying smugglers to ferry them from Europe across the channel to Britain. Almost 29,000 people have arrived on the southern English coast without permission this year, after a record 45,755 were detected in 2022.

Meanwhile, the cost of housing the 175,000 migrants awaiting an asylum decision is costing $10 million a day.

In its ruling, the Supreme Court said the plan would violate international human rights laws enshrined in domestic legislation because deficiencies in the Rwanda asylum system meant migrants were at risk of being sent back to homelands where they were at risk of abuse.

The government said its new binding treaty, which replaced a memorandum of understanding, together with the new law, will satisfy those concerns.

Rwandan Foreign Minister Vincent Biruta said it was important that the partnership with Britain was lawful.

"Without lawful behavior by the U.K., Rwanda would not be able to continue with the ... partnership," he said.

The opposition Labour Party's home affairs spokesperson Yvette Cooper criticized the government's new law, saying, "The only thing stopping the British government ignoring international law completely is the Rwandan government.

"[Cleverly] has a treaty and a law he knows will not stop dangerous boat crossings, she said.
In the past two years, Burkina Faso has experienced two coups, a rise in extremist violence and an increasingly hostile environment for media.

Despite those tough conditions, one local reporter has not been deterred from covering the issues affecting the most vulnerable people in her country.

Mariam Ouedraogo, who reports for Burkina Fasos daily French newspaper Sidwaya, says she sees it as her mission to shed light on often-overlooked social issues. Stories affecting women, children, people with disabilities and coverage on education, health, and insecurity are all regular beats for her.

Its because I wanted to change things. I had this desire not to change the social order, but I was looking for a job that would allow me to have more impact, especially on social facts and the subjects that surround us, Ouedraogo told VOA, speaking through an interpreter.

Ouedraogo has won national recognition for her work, which helped elevate her voice beyond Burkina Faso.

In 2023, the journalist was recognized with the ICFJ Knight International Journalism Award and the Bayeux Calvados-Normandy Award for war correspondents. She is the first African woman to win that award.

In presenting the Knight award, NBC News correspondent Andrea Mitchell paid tribute to how Ouedraogo reports "with great sensitivity and courage," and highlighted the journalists work to improve conditions for her peers.

She now advocates to improve mental health care for media workers, a testament to her own deep commitment to helping people," Mitchell said.

For Ouedraogo, these awards give the people she writes about more voice.

Projections for Burkina Faso by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, a research center focusing on security, estimate that 8,600 people will die due to extremist attacks by the end of this year, more than double the figure from last year. Extremists regularly use rape as a weapon of war.

Ouedraogo says covering that situation, particularly cases related to rape and insecurity, carry an emotional weight.

Its as if I was being raped in their place. And I found myself in it without understanding anything, she told VOA, as she discussed interviewing survivors.

The journalist says she has a diagnosis of vicarious trauma.

Its unimaginable what suffering they had to endure, the journalist said, recalling interviews with women raped, sometimes by several people, in front of their children or partners.

Its traumatic, and its another death. I call it another death, she said, adding that the horrific accounts she reports on stay in her mind.

Yet, Ouedraogo says she has to keep reporting.

Thats all I know how to do, she said.

However, the current journalistic climate in Burkina Faso is far from ideal, with limitations on reporting in certain regions, societal taboos around topics like rape, and potential threats from authorities and the public.

Ouedraogo has to maintain a delicate balance of encouraging women to speak out while respecting the risks they may face by doing so.

Anything related to sexuality in our country is still taboo, she told VOA. We dont talk about it. This is why the victims remain silent. They dont like to tell stories because there is the view of society not only are you a victim, and you will also be repudiated, stigmatized.

Despite the hardships, Ouedraogo encourages more women to join the field of journalism.

I encourage women, and its exciting, she said. I think that there is no better subject than social issues. Thats it. Thats change. Everything comes from there. These are aspects on which we must act.

Ouedraogo says society needs to show compassion and solidarity to women who experience violence. She says survivors shouldnt suffer in silence, especially because they found themselves in circumstances beyond their control.

Let us think of these women who unfortunately were at the wrong time and in the wrong place, she said.

Betty Ayoub of VOAs Africa Division contributed to this report.
Television producer-writer Norman Lear, whose ground-breaking hit comedy shows such as "All in the Family" and "Maude" addressed social issues such as race and abortion that had rarely been seen on U.S. television, died on Tuesday at the age of 101, according to media reports.

Lear, one of the most influential people in television, died at his Los Angeles home of natural causes, Variety reported on Wednesday, citing his publicist.

Lear, who won six Emmy awards for his work in television, was known for his campaigning for liberal causes, including voting rights, and worked well into his 90s.

In 2017, he rebooted his 1970s TV series "One Day at a Time" to focus on a Cuban American family, and in 2020 he earned his sixth Emmy for a live special broadcast of "All in the Family" and "Good Times."

In February 2021, Lear received the Carol Burnett Award, a lifetime achievement award, at the Golden Globe Awards ceremony for his contributions to television.

In addition to "All in the Family" and "Maude," Lear dominated American TV screens in the 1970s and '80s with the situation-comedy shows "Sanford and Son," "The Jeffersons," and the soap-opera spoof "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman." At one point in the 1970s, Lear had eight shows on the air with an estimated 120 million viewers, Time magazine said.

By drawing material from social themes of the time, Lear's shows made network executives nervous because they had a depth and air of controversy.

"For him to say that he didn't have an impact on not only television, but society is ... a little too humble," said Rob Reiner, who had a co-starring role on "All in the Family" before becoming a film director.

Lear and production partner Bud Yorkin put "All in the Family" on the air in January 1971 and the show would go on to win four Emmys for best comedy in its nine seasons. It was based on a British show, "Til Death Do Us Part," and gave U.S. television one of its most memorable and controversial characters  Archie Bunker.

Carroll O'Connor portrayed Archie as a crude, loud, blue-collar New Yorker who spouted racist, homophobic and antisemitic comments. He was cast against a scatter-brained wife he called "Dingbat," a liberal daughter and an even more liberal son-in-law he referred to as "Meathead" and played by Reiner.

"All in the Family" was the top-rated show on U.S. television for five straight years, according to CBS, and TV Guide ranked it fourth on its list of television's all-time greatest shows.



Born on July 27, 1922, in New Haven, Connecticut, Norman Milton Lear's most lasting creation was partly based on fact. Many of the harsh words that came out of Archie's mouth had first been spoken by Lear's own father, Herman Lear, who went to prison for selling fake bonds, and frequently told his wife to "stifle" herself and called his son "the laziest white kid I ever saw."

"I grew up in a family that lived at the top of its lungs and the ends of its nerves," Lear told Esquire magazine. Some critics said the Archie Bunker character put a laughing face on bigotry, but Lear said it only pointed to the complexity of humanity.

A year after "All in the Family" started, Lear aired "Maude," a spin-off that starred Bea Arthur as Archie's acerbic sister-in-law and political opposite.

As with Bunker, the character was like none previously seen on U.S. television. Maude was on her fourth husband, protested marijuana laws and had an abortion before the U.S. Supreme Court legalized the procedure nationwide. Her husband battled alcoholism, had two nervous breakdowns and attempted suicide.

Black characters in U.S. television in the '70s were mostly limited to minor roles until Lear made them the focus of some of his shows.

"The Jeffersons" was another spin-off of "All in the Family" and featured an upwardly mobile Black couple who moved to Manhattan's glitzy upper eastside neighborhood. The show's lead character George was often rude and loud. Lear's other hits included "Sanford and Son" a sitcom about a Black junkyard owner in a Los Angeles neighborhood, and "Good Times," a portrayal of a working-class Black family in a Chicago housing project.

Other Lear-produced hits included "Diff'rent Strokes," "Fernwood 2 Night," and the "All in the Family" spin-off "Archie Bunker's Place." But Lear also had flops such as "All That Glitters," "Sunday Dinner" and another "All in the Family" spin-off, "Gloria."

Lear, who grew up in Connecticut, dropped out of college in World War II to join the Army and flew 52 combat missions. He went to Los Angeles in 1950 with the intention of being a publicist but began writing for TV stars such as Danny Thomas, Jerry Lewis, Dean Martin and Andy Williams.

Lear shifted focus in 1981 and founded the liberal activist group People for the American Way to boost voting rights and fight right-wing extremism. He also established the Norman Lear Center at the University of Southern California's Annenberg School of Communication.

In 2001, he and a partner purchased an original copy of the U.S. Declaration of Independence and sent it on a three-year tour of U.S. schools, libraries and events. Lear is survived by his third wife, Lyn, and his six children.
After Hamas October 7 attack sparked the Israel-Hamas war, Hamas supporters have increasingly targeted Middle Eastern waters with anti-Israeli attacks.

Yemens Iran-backed Houthi rebels have conducted several hostile maritime operations to signal their solidarity with Palestine and opposition to Israel. Houthi, officially Ansar Allah, is a Shia Islamist political and military organization that controls roughly one-third of Yemens most-populated territory.

On December 3, Houthi rebels launched a barrage of drone and missile strikes on commercial ships in the Red Sea, hitting three vessels.

The Houthis claimed responsibility for two of the attacks.

Responding to distress calls from the vessels under attack, the USS Carney, an Arleigh-Burke Class destroyer, engaged and shot down several unmanned aerial vehicles launched from Houthi controlled areas in Yemen, U.S. Central Command said.

These attacks represent a direct threat to international commerce and maritime security, the U.S. Central Command said. The United States will consider all appropriate responses in full coordination with its international allies and partners.

Yemen's Houthi Revolutionary Committee president, Mohammad Ali Al-Houthi, responded by denying the right of the U.S. military to be in the region, or to respond to those attacks.

The Americans have no right to the Red Sea to announce that they reserve the right to respond. And to confirm this, they will not accept any military presence by China or Russia or others in the regional waters, for example near Florida or elsewhere, Al-Houthi claimed in a December 3 post on X.

That claim is false.

Under international law, there is nothing prohibiting U.S. military vessels from navigating international waters or defending themselves or others from destructive attacks.

The Houthis, an armed-non state actor, have repeatedly targeted vessels engaged in global shipping, illegally threatening international navigation and maritime security.

The worlds commercial fleet engaged in transporting the worlds goods and exercising the right of freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, is entitled to do so safely and without fear of attack, a spokesperson for the London-based International Chamber of Shipping, one of the world's principal shipping organizations, told Polygraph.info in a written comment.

However, as we have seen in this case and previous incidents, commercial ships can become vulnerable to attack when traversing areas of high political tension, such as the Red Sea, at this time, they said. The international community has an obligation, indeed a duty, to protect the commercial fleet from such attacks.

The Houthis have attempted to claim the commercial ships are legitimate targets by labeling them as being Israeli or associated with Israelis.

The same justification was used when Houthis hijacked the Bahamas-flagged Galaxy Leader commercial ship last month. Galaxy Leader is owned by Abraham Ungar, an Israeli international shipping mogul, although the ship is operated by Nippon Yusen, a Japanese shipping company.

Under Article 92 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), ships are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the flags under which they fly.

None of the ships attacked by the Houthis on December 3 are registered in Israel, fly the flag of Israel, or are otherwise connected to a state or entity that is party to the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The Israeli Defense Force has likewise said none of the ships have links to the state of Israel.

The first ship to be hit on December 3, the Unity Explorer, is owned by U.K.-registered Unity Explorer LTD.

Reports indicate that Unity Explorer LTDs director, David Ungar, has Israeli citizenship, although he is also a British national who resides in the United Kingdom.

The Unity Explorer is a Bahama-flagged cargo carrier and thus subject to the laws and regulations of the Bahamas.

The next ship to be struck by the Houthis was M/V Number 9, a Panama-flagged container ship owned by Number 9 Shipping Ltd, which is managed by Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK-based Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement, Reuters reported.

The third ship that came under attack, AOM Sophie II, is a bulk carrier registered in Panama that flies the Panamanian flag.

Even when transiting Bab el Mandeb, a straight that connects the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, Article 19 of UNCLOS allows foreign ships, including military vessels, to pass through Yemens territorial waters so long as that passage is not prejudicial to the peace, good order or security of the coastal state.

All of the incidents to date have occurred outside Yemeni territorial waters, but even if they were within territorial waters, these attacks would still constitute a violation of international law, in particular the right of innocent or transit passage and the fundamental rights of the seafarers onboard to carry out their work and to do so without fear of attack, the spokesperson for the International Chamber of Shipping said.

The right for the U.S. ships to defend themselves and others from unprovoked attack is also recognized under international law.

According to an overview of laws governing naval operations in both peacetime and during armed conflict complied by the U.S. Naval War College: International law, embodied in the concept of collective self-defense, provides authority for the use of proportionate force necessary for the protection of foreign flag vessels and aircraft and foreign nationals and their property from unlawful violence, including terrorist or piratical attacks, at sea.

Per the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, issues of proportionality regarding acts of self-defense are subject to debate.

In this instance, the USS Carney only shot down the unmanned drones launched from Houthi controlled areas in Yemen. The U.S. did not launch retaliatory strikes on Yemeni soil against the Houthi forces that launched the attacks.
Paranoia has become something of a way of life for Sarada Taing, ever since the journalist received violent threats from a pro-government social media personality in Cambodia in June.

In one audio message sent via Facebook Messenger on June 19, Pheng Vannak, a former police officer, said he wants to chop my head if I come to Cambodia, said Taing, who lives in Washington.

In a second audio message, the caller said he knew people in the United States who also hated Taing. Days later, on June 22, Vannak hosted a Facebook Live discussion, during which he said he would not think twice about killing Taing.

Both messages  reviewed and translated by VOA  are profanity-laced tirades that include threats of sexual violence against the journalists family.

"I feel really shocked, and I got really scared. My family is very scared, said Taing. I dont have any mechanism to protect myself very much.

Corruption accusation

Taing said Vannak had harassed him for several years, but the latest incidents appeared to come after the media outlet Taing works with aired a report about a Cambodian businessman accused of corruption.

Vannak, who runs a Facebook news page with nearly 685,000 followers, did not reply to a VOA request for comment.

A dual U.S.-Cambodian citizen, Taing is chief correspondent at The Cambodia Daily, a media outlet that operates in exile under the name of an independent English-language media outlet shuttered in 2017.

On his Khmer-language video show Idea Talk, Taing attracts between 50,000 and 80,000 viewers as he challenges the Cambodian government on corruption, human rights, environmental issues and other topics.

Taing said his experience of being harassed underscores the even steeper challenges for journalists who work inside Cambodia. Most independent news outlets there have been shuttered and authorities harass critical reporters, press freedom watchdogs say.

Taings experience accentuates trends that exist beyond Cambodia, too, with authoritarian governments targeting dissidents outside their borders in a tactic known as transnational repression.

Freedom House documented 10 cases of physical transnational repression perpetrated by the Cambodian government between 2014 and 2022, according to Grady Vaughan, who co-authored the nonprofits December report on transnational repression targeting reporters.

They dont want any opposition forming in exile, Vaughn said, referring to Cambodias authoritarian government. So they try to intimidate these people into silence.

Media watchdogs including Reporters Without Borders, or RSF, and local journalists still working inside Cambodia echo Taings concerns.

Press freedom in Cambodia is in a deplorable state, RSFs Arthur Rochereau told VOA from Taiwan.

Still, audiences inside the country rely on the few independent voices  including those run from exile  that report.

People depend on us so much, said Taing, who moved to the United States in 2008. The most important thing is they want to hear the truth about whats happening, about whats going on in Cambodia.

Online harassment is par for the course with reporting on Phnom Penh, but Taing said the June threat was more extreme than anything faced previously.

During a reporting trip to New York in September, Taing said he felt nervous while covering a protest against Cambodias newly installed leader, Prime Minister Hun Manet, the son of Hun Sen, who led the country for nearly four decades of strict rule.

"I have to be really careful. I dont know who likes or who doesnt like me, Taing said.

Foreign-based news sites blocked

The threats against Taing came just a few weeks before a major Cambodian election in July. Ahead of the election, the Cambodian government blocked multiple foreign-based news websites, according to Rochereau.

Cambodias democratic transition in the early 1990s brought a vibrant media landscape, according to Rochereau. But 2017 marked a turning point as former Prime Minister Hun Sen and his clan, fearing a loss of power, launched a war against Cambodian media, he said.

Out of 180 countries, the Southeast Asian country now ranks 147th in terms of press freedom, according to RSF.

This new period has been punctuated with media closures, including earlier this year when authorities shut Voice of Democracy, one of the few remaining independent outlets.

Cambodias Washington embassy did not reply to a VOA email requesting comment.

The environment takes a toll on journalists like Mech Dara who still work inside Cambodia. When Voice of Democracy shut down, it was the third time an outlet Dara worked at had been silenced.

He worked at The Cambodia Daily when it was shuttered in 2017. The following year, he worked at The Phnom Penh Post when the outlet was sold to a public relations firm that had done work for the government.

The space is getting narrower, and the stakes are very high, Dara, now a freelance journalist in Cambodia, told VOA.

This fall, Voice of Democracy relaunched from the United States.

Every step in the reporting process is a struggle in Cambodia, Dara said, from pitching stories and finding sources to the intimidation and harassment that can come after stories are published.

The journalist said he has been arrested before over his work but added thats just part of the job.

We are fearful, Dara said. But I am the one who picked this path, so I have to walk through that path. I know that something could happen, but I dont know when. I dont know how.

'I fear for my life'

Back in Washington, family is top of mind for Taing. He lives with his young son, his wife and her elderly parents.

In an effort to improve their security, Taing changed the locks on his doors, added a digital security code and installed video surveillance. He said he also emailed the FBI and the State Department.

I fear for my life and the life of those close to me due to my work as a journalist, he wrote.

But more than anything, Taing worries about his family members who still live in Cambodia.

Despite safety concerns, Taing said he has never considered stopping his work. He said a love for his birth country motivates him.

"I want to see Cambodia have more freedom, more democracy and respect of human rights, Taing said. I want the Cambodian people to have real democracy, to have real peace, to have justice.
A top U.S. law enforcement official is warning lawmakers that a failure to renew key surveillance authorities would amount to "unilateral disarmament" in the face of growing threats from terrorism as well as countries like China and Iran.

FBI Director Christopher Wray testified Tuesday before the Senate Judiciary Committee, urging the panel to renew the bureau's ability to gather electronic data under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, or FISA, before the law expires at the end of the year.

Section 702, as it is commonly known, allows agencies such as the FBI and the National Security Agency to gather electronic data of non-Americans without first obtaining a warrant. But its use has stirred controversy because of repeated incidents in which officials have collected information on U.S. citizens.

'Reckless at best...irresponsible at worst'

Wray assured lawmakers that reforms have been put in place to protect U.S. citizens, cautioning that a failure to renew the authority, or to renew the authority with additional restrictions, would put the country in danger.

"Blinding ourselves through either allowing 702 to lapse or amending it in a way that guts its effectiveness would be reckless at best and dangerous and irresponsible at worst," he said.

"The whole reason we have 702 focused on foreign threats from overseas is to protect America from those threats," he said. "It's not to admire foreign threats from afar and study them and think about them. It's to know what they are and to make sure they don't hurt Americans here."

Other U.S. officials have spent the past year briefing lawmakers about the much talked-about surveillance authority.

In May, Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines told lawmakers information gathered through Section 702 "is utterly fundamental," generating almost 60% of the information presented in the U.S. president's daily intelligence briefing.

Just months later, in July, the deputy director of the CIA, the top U.S. spy agency, told a conference outside of Washington that Section 702 has been instrumental in helping to identify Russian atrocities in Ukraine and in tracking precursor chemicals  often from China  that help fuel the production of fentanyl.

But some lawmakers have been cautious, calling for additional reforms to prevent the FBI, in particular, from obtaining information on U.S. citizens without first receiving authorization from a court in the form of a warrant.

Wray told committee members on Thursday that using Section 702 as a so-called "end run" to gather information of Americans is "expressly prohibited" and that a series of reforms has been enacted to make sure it does not happen.

He also argued that the time it would take to go through the court system to obtain a warrant could put lives in danger.

"Even though our slice of 702 as a percentage is quite narrow, that narrow slice in some ways is the most important slice, because that's what protects people here that all of us are sworn to protect," Wray argued.

"What if there were a terrorist attack that we had a shot to prevent, but couldn't take it, because the FBI was deprived of the ability under 702 to look at key information already sitting in our holdings?"

'You have a lot of gall.'

Not all lawmakers agreed the danger was so dire.

"You have the audacity to come here, and you told us adding a warrant requirement to 702 even for queries involving U.S. persons on U.S. soil, that would amount to some sort of unilateral disarmament. You have a lot of gall, sir," Republican Senator Mike Lee told Wray.

Lee also dismissed the FBI director's assurances that sufficient protections have been built in.

"We have absolutely no reason to trust you because you haven't behaved in a manner that's trustworthy," he said. "You're asking me to believe something that is not believable."

Some rights groups, such as the American Civil Liberties Union, also have balked at the renewal of Section 702 without major changes.

"We have serious, serious concerns," ACLU senior policy analyst Kia Hamadanchy told VOA last month. "Over the last 15 years, we've seen a whole host of abuses.  Our current position is that Section 702 should not be reauthorized absent fundamental reform."

Compromise possible

With time running short before the collection authority expires, there may be a chance for a compromise.

Wray told lawmakers a bipartisan proposal from the chair and vice chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee "is a path that I think merits further exploration."

The bill, proposed by Democratic Senator Mark Warner and Republican Senator Marco Rubio last week, would require the FBI to get a court order to search intelligence collected from U.S. citizens for evidence of a crime but not when it is pursuing foreign intelligence.

VOA's Rob Garver contributed to this story.
Heavy fighting continues in Gaza as accusations of war crimes for both Hamas and Israel are levied. And whats next for recently released hostages from Thailand? We get an update from COP28 in Dubai as well as an update from Kyiv and a look at the fight in congress over more funding for Ukraine.
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson defended his handling of COVID-19 on Wednesday at a public inquiry into the pandemic, saying his government got some things wrong but did its best.

Johnson began two days of questioning under oath by lawyers for the judge-led inquiry about his initial reluctance to impose a national lockdown in early 2020 and other fateful decisions.

Johnson opened his testimony with an apology for the pain and the loss and the suffering of the COVID victims, though not for any of his own actions. Four people stood up in court as he spoke, holding signs saying: The Dead cant hear your apologies," before being escorted out by security staff.

Inevitably, in the course of trying to handle a very, very difficult pandemic in which we had to balance appalling harms on either side of the decision, we may have made mistakes, Johnson said. Inevitably, we got some things wrong. I think we were doing our best at the time.

Johnson had arrived at the inquiry venue at daybreak, several hours before he was due to take the stand, avoiding a protest by relatives of some of those victims.

Among those wanting answers from the inquiry are families of some of the more than 230,000 people in the U.K. who died after contracting the virus. A group gathered outside the office building where the inquiry was set, some holding pictures of their loved ones. A banner declared: Let the bodies pile high  a statement attributed to Johnson by an aide. Another sign said: Johnson partied while people died.

Johnson was pushed out of office by his own Conservative Party in mid-2022 after multiple ethics scandals, including the revelation that he and staff members held parties in the prime ministers Downing Street offices in 2020 and 2021, flouting the governments lockdown restrictions.

Former colleagues, aides and advisers have painted an unflattering picture of Johnson and his government over weeks of testimony.

Former Chief Scientific Adviser Patrick Vallance said Johnson was bamboozled by science. In diaries that have been seen as evidence, Vallance also said Johnson was obsessed with older people accepting their fate. Former adviser Dominic Cummings, now a fierce opponent of Johnson, said the then-prime minister asked scientists whether blowing a hair dryer up his nose could kill the virus.

Former senior civil servant Helen McNamara described a toxic, macho culture inside Johnson's government, and Cabinet Secretary Simon Case, the countrys top civil servant, called Johnson and his inner circle basically feral.

Johnson defended his government, saying it contained challenging characters whose views about each other might not be fit to print, but who got an awful lot done.

The U.K. has one of the highest COVID-19 death tolls in Europe, with the virus recorded as a cause of death for more than 232,000 people.

Johnson said he was not sure whether his government's decisions had caused excess deaths. He said deciding when to impose lockdowns and other restrictions had been painful.

People point, quite rightly, to the loss of education, the economic damage, the missed cancer and cardiac appointments, and all the other costs," he said. When it came to the balance of the need to protect the public and protect the (health service), and the damage done by lockdowns, it was incredibly difficult."

Johnson agreed in late 2021 to hold a public inquiry after heavy pressure from bereaved families. The probe, led by retired Judge Heather Hallett, is expected to take three years to complete, though interim reports will be issued starting next year.

The inquiry is divided into four sections, with the current phase focusing on political decision-making. The first stage, which concluded in July, looked at the countrys preparedness for the pandemic.

Johnson has submitted a written evidence statement to the inquiry but has not handed over some 5,000 WhatsApp messages from several key weeks between February and June 2020. They were on a phone Johnson was told to stop using when it emerged that the number had been publicly available online for years. Johnson later said hed forgotten the password to unlock it.

A Johnson spokesman said the former prime minister had not deleted any messages but a technical issue meant some had not been recovered.
Gabon's military leader, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, visited Cameroon on Wednesday, asking central African states to lift economic sanctions on his country before the 2025 elections.

When Nguema ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba in a bloodless coup on August 30, economic sanctions were imposed on the country by CEMAC, the six-nation Central Africa Economic and Monetary Community, which condemned the unconstitutional power shift and suspended Gabon.

Nguema said Wednesday that he and Cameroonian President Paul Biya discussed the possibility of lifting economic sanctions before he transfers power to constitutional rule in October 2025. Nguema said he took power to save Gabon from a long rule that ruined the country, and he wants to ensure order is brought back to Gabon before handing power to civilians.

Nguema's visit to Cameroon ended a tour that has taken him to Chad, the Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea and the Republic of Congo since he seized power in August.

Jean Rene Oba, an international affairs lecturer at Omar Bongo University in Gabon, said Nguema has been able to convince central African leaders that a military coup was necessary to save Gabon from the Bongo family's long and autocratic rule that impoverished civilians and created political and ethnic tensions.

"The president of the transition, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, is totally mindful of the reality that here is no single country on earth that can live in its own bubble in the 21st century, so he started a campaign explaining the legitimacy of the action he took on behalf of the Gabonese people and I think the arguments that he has been making are very powerful and that is why we could see he is so welcomed and understood," Oba said.

Nguema told several hundred Gabon civilians in Yaounde that he seized power to improve living conditions in their oil-producing nation because its citizens remained poor during the 56-year reign of Ali Bongo Ondimba and his father, Omar Bongo Ondimba.

Gabon's military ruler reiterated that he would hold elections in August 2025.

He said a new constitution that is being prepared would be presented to all citizens in October 2024 and a referendum on its adoption would be held that same year.

Before the elections, Gabon's military junta says it will fight corruption, accelerate economic reforms, ensure sustainable economic development, restore stability and revise the electoral code.

Georges Mpaga, president of Gabon's Network of Free Society Organizations for Good Governance, said Nguema's insistence on executing so many projects looks like a plan to hold onto power.

Mpaga said Nguema should give priority to Gabon's supreme interest, which as of now is the quest for a return to constitutional order. He said Nguema should make sure Gabon has a constitution which grants and limits powers of government officials, and paves the way for democratic, credible, fair and transparent elections that meet international norms and standards.

Nguema said he will keep his pledge to hand over power to civilians and that he will never betray the confidence entrusted upon him by his country's civilians and military, as well as a majority of political parties and civil society groups.
With the resumption of fighting in Gaza, Americans are increasingly divided over who to blame and what they want the United States to do in a war that has claimed the lives of more than 1,300 Israelis and 16,000 Palestinians.

Polling shows Americans feel slightly more sympathy toward Israel than Palestine, explained Robert Collins, professor of Urban Studies and Public Policy at Dillard University in New Orleans. But its not an overwhelming difference, and there are a lot of undecideds and people who are unsure.

A poll conducted from November 25-27 by The Economist/YouGov shows 38% of Americans sympathizing with Israelis while 11% of respondents sided with Palestinians. Twenty-eight percent said they were equally sympathetic to both sides, while 23% said they werent sure.

That indecision, Collins said, is rooted in the conflicts complexity.

Foreign wars are far more complicated to wrap ones head around than domestic policy, he told VOA. Because of the fog of war, were limited in what information we can get, and even much of that turns out to be false a day or two later.

Though more than half of survey respondents didnt choose a side, many who did have strong feelings.

Of course Im on Israels side, said Indiana lawyer Jeff Williams. Theyve allowed the Palestinians and Hamas to live peacefully next door until being invaded and attacked, and having their residents raped and murdered. Israel has the right to respond in defense.

Displaced in their own homeland

That same sureness is present in many of those who sympathize with Palestinians. Brooklyn Birdie is a Louisiana graduate student.

As the mother of a son who is part Palestinian, I feel morally obligated to speak up for those in Gaza who are being wrongfully murdered, beaten, kidnapped and arrested by Israel for simply existing, she said. How so many Americans support those perpetrating these horrors is beyond me.

Rachel Lacombe manages a Pennsylvania affordable housing nonprofit. She says she grieves for the Israeli citizens killed in the October 7 attack by Hamas.

But in my heart, my sympathy is for the Palestinian people who have had their homes stolen for seven decades, displaced and forced into refugee camps on their own land since 1948 when Israel was founded, she told VOA.

Lacombe says that is a difficult view to voice in America today.

Its been terrifying, she said, watching hundreds accused of antisemitism, losing their jobs, doxed and blacklisted just for being critical of Israels policies. I have to be careful what I say.

A battle for Israeli existence

I think its selective to say this conflict began in 1948 because Jews have occupied the land that is now Israel for much of the thousands of years prior, said Connecticut mother Rebecca Urrutia. My prayers are with innocent Palestinians, too, but I sympathize with Israel first and foremost. They are defending their land and their people and have been the target of so many attacks in the past.

One reason Americans may be more likely to side with Israel is decades of geopolitical alliance between the United States and Israel. Another reason may be that there are more Jewish Americans than there are Muslim-Americans.

According to the Steinhardt Social Research Institute at Brandeis University, Jewish Americans make up about 2.4% of the U.S. population while the Pew Research Center says Muslim Americans account for just over 1% of the total population.

Since October 7, a survey by the Jewish Electorate Institute says more American Jews report feeling emotionally attached to Israel.

I think the Jewish community has been split since the Trump presidency, but the attacks of October 7 united us, said Lisa Peicott, a cantor at a synagogue in Los Angeles. Hundreds of thousands of us have come together for marches and demonstrations against antisemitism and for Israel.

Complex and complicated

Although polls show Americans more likely to sympathize with Israel, a growing number of respondents to an NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist poll said Israels response was too much. While only 26% believed that was the case on October 11, 38% believed that four weeks later when the question was asked again.

On one hand, I am so upset and in pain to see some Americans  including liberal activists and leaders I respected  now dismissing, celebrating or even denying the violence, rape and death of Jews, said Sophie Teitelbaum, an educator in Los Angeles. Thats ignorant and its antisemitic.

On the other hand, Teitelbaum said she is herself critical of the Israeli government, its leadership and the military response in Gaza.

I understand the need to defend oneself, but I also think Israels response was inhumane, unethical and wrong, she told VOA. Both sides are hurting. Both sides have a historical claim to the land. Both sides are afraid and deserve to be able to live in peace. But just because I dont choose one side puts me at risk of being ostracized by both.

Minnesota musician Joanna Miller shares that fear.

I have friends who feel so passionately on both sides, and I dont want to upset any of them, she said. But even not saying anything can be a problem. I have some Jewish friends on social media who compare those of us who arent saying anything to Nazism.

This push against silence is coming from both sides of the debate, and its forcing some Americans to voice opinions that they might feel more comfortable not sharing.
The number of inhabitants of Uruguay is stagnating, births are plummeting and the aging of the population is accelerating. According to preliminary data from the 2023 Census, there are 3,444,263 people in the South American country, only 1% more than in 2011. according to figures presented last week, the meager population increase is explained by the arrival of almost 62,000 immigrants. This historical trend has skyrocketed in recent years, and it has given rise to apocalyptic sentiments. We are a people of old people, [showing] dangerous signs of extinction, former Uruguayan President Jose Mujica said in 2011, when the previous census was released.

In 2011, 46,000 people were born in Uruguay. That year the National Institute of Statistics (INE) projected the birth of some 44,000 by 2022, but the number of new Uruguayans was only 32,000. Every child is going to be very precious, said Diego Aboal, the director of INE, at the presentation of the 2023 Census. There, it was explained that the slowdown in population growth is a global phenomenon, which began to be recorded in 1985 in Uruguay and became more acute with the fall in births since 2016. In those seven years, the total fertility rate, which measures the average number of children per woman, fell from 2.0 to 1.2.

The decline in fertility is going in the expected direction, but at an unexpectedly rapid pace, Ignacio Pardo, a PhD in Sociology and researcher at the Population Program at the School of Social Sciences (University of the Republic), tells EL PAIS. Over half of this decrease occurred among women under 25 years of age, which includes a decrease in unintended teenage pregnancies, Pardo says. What has happened? He explains that there has been a greater ability to plan, with specific public policies and mass access to birth control methods such as the subdermal contraceptive implant, which is delivered and placed free of charge through the public health system.

In the rest of the age groups, the drop in fertility is multi-causal. Among other factors, Pardo mentions the problems of reconciling paid work with raising children and the questioning of motherhood as a plan thats superior to all others. In addition, job and marital uncertainty may have influenced many women, who make up 52% of the population in total. Perhaps some of these dimensions will be modified and fertility will not always be so low, but it is highly probable that it will never again be more than two children per woman on average, the researcher adds.

It is a scenario we must adapt to rather than fight, in order to concentrate [our] efforts on the populations welfare in this demographic context, he says. Pardo distances himself from alarmist positions that predict the eventual extinction of Uruguayans, as some politicians and academics have asserted. Mujica made that prediction in 2011 and renowned historian Benjamin Nahum later made a similar claim: Births do not cover the mortality rate of the Uruguayan population. What does that mean? That you can do the math to know when Uruguayans will disappear, Nahum told the Uruguayan newspaper EL PAIS in 2017.

Pardo notes that alarmism is common in this context and that it can be attributed to a certain nostalgia for the apparent power of growing populations, which is different from the Uruguayan case. Uruguay reached a population of 3 million in 1986 and today, with less than 3.5 million [people], it is witnessing the end of its population growth, he says. This trend has been permanent at different speeds, influenced by the historically low fertility rate in a mostly urban population. In regard to the latter, the trend is also clear: 96% of Uruguayans live in cities, with the population concentrated in the main capitals on the countrys southern coast.

The researchers responsible for the census agreed that the low birth rate was the factor that most influenced the populations stagnation. Since 2021, more people have died than were born: 39,000 versus 32,000. On the other hand, emigration was not mentioned as a major cause of this stagnation, which it could have been at other times. In fact, almost 600,000 Uruguayans currently reside abroad. Demographic experts estimate that in the 20112023 period between censuses, the number of people who emigrated was similar to the number who returned, so this flow would not have moved the needle in demographic terms; on the other hand, the arrival of immigrants from abroad did slightly increase the population.

If it were not for immigration, the population would be less, Isaac Alfie, the president of the National Census Commission, said at the presentation of the preliminary results. In the last 12 years, almost 62,000 foreign-born people settled in Uruguay, mainly from Venezuela (27%), Argentina (22%) and Cuba (20%). This migration allowed Uruguays population to grow by a scant 1% and prevented it from shrinking. Hopefully a new wave of immigration has begun that will allow the country to sustain its population and increase it, Alfie said. In total, 3% of the population living in Uruguay was born abroad.

The rapid aging of Uruguays population merited a separate chapter. In this regard, the data show that in 2004 Uruguayans average age was 29 years old, while in 2023 it will be 38 years old. In addition, the data reveal that 16% are over 65 years of age; it also says that there are more than 26,000 people over 90 years of age and 822 people over 100 years of age, twice as many as in 2004. We have challenges in public health and education policies, care and social security, Aboal, the director of the National Institute of Statistics, remarked. He added that we are going to have to take action if we want to maintain the welfare state we have, with fewer people working.

Pardo emphasizes that a population that is not growing is not necessarily in trouble. In my opinion, the ultimate problems are found in the levels of welfare and inequality of societies, which are linked to demographics, but not in a linear sense, he points out. In Uruguays case, Pardo cites child poverty as an example of this inequality; it affects approximately 157,000 minors. It makes sense to concentrate [our] efforts on the children whove already been born, rather than to encourage possible future births, given that the extent to which these policies can work is not very clear, he concludes.

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Tensions sparked by the Israel-Hamas war are spilling into the climate conference in Dubai, with calls for a cease-fire in Gaza competing for attention with demands for climate justice at COP28.

Demonstrators from several groups gathered on Sunday to show solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, where thousands have died in an Israeli military offensive intended to destroy the U.S.-designated terror group Hamas.

The offensive was prompted by Hamas' October 7 raid into Israel in which some 1,200 people were massacred and about 240 were taken back to Gaza as hostages.

"Free Palestine!" demonstrators chanted during the weekend rally, with many saying the pursuit of climate justice was not possible while the war continued. Several world leaders have also criticized the Israeli actions during remarks to the climate gathering.

Pressing issue for Palestine

Human-caused climate change is a pressing issue for the Palestinian delegation at COP28.

The Palestinians live in one of the world's most vulnerable places despite causing less than 0.01% of global emissions. Their territories have suffered from water scarcity, rising temperatures and soil degradation for years.

The main source of emissions in the Palestinian territories has been the burning of fossil fuels. There's only one power plant in Gaza, and most power to the enclave was supplied by Israel before the war started.

The Palestinian Authority, which governs the West Bank but not Gaza, pledged in 2021 to reduce emissions by 26.6% by 2040. Nevertheless, Palestinian delegates at COP28 told VOA the pursuit of climate justice cannot take precedence over human lives.

World leaders "said that we should take care of gender and the earth, and we should take care with the climate refugees. But if you reflect this in Gaza, it's not the story," said Ahmed Abuthaher, director general of the Palestinians' Environment Quality Authority.

"People without water, people without housing, people without medical relief, people lose everything. So how come to make resilience? So, my message to all of them (is) that climate change is good to combat it, but it is not more important than our lives. So first comes human lives."

Some climate activists are expressing a similar sentiment.

"There can't be climate justice when thousands are being killed," said Hendrik Voss, digital coordinator from the Climate Justice Alliance  a U.S.-based organization focusing on ways that climate change can be addressed that are fair to all countries.

"The Palestinian people on the frontlines of genocidal warfare are on everyone's mind here at COP28," said Voss. "CJA participated in yesterday's protest to make our position known."

But Gideon Behar, special envoy on climate change and sustainability with the Israeli delegation, argued that the issues are not connected.

"We have to separate between the issues of climate and geopolitical issues," he told VOA. "If we do not do that, the whole international climate negotiations will be kidnapped by geopolitical issues."

Report says occupation hurt adaptation efforts

A document published under the auspices of the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change makes a case that Israel's decades-long occupation of the West Bank and blockade of Gaza have hampered climate adaptation efforts, and Palestinian delegates in Dubai said the war has made those efforts even more challenging.

Hadeel Ikhmais, who heads the climate change section at the Environment Quality Authority for the Palestinian territories, said the territories will need to adapt to climate change no less urgently that the rest of the world.

But, she noted in an interview, the territories have no water sources other than wells and aquifers and must buy a substantial part of their water from Israel at rates that strain their limited budgets.

Israel's Behar countered that it was Hamas' own actions that led to water instability in Gaza. Many Israelis blame Hamas and its repeated acts of aggression for the Israeli blockade that prevents many goods, including spare parts, and services from entering the enclave. Still, Behar said people there have benefited from Israel's infrastructure. "We are helping people in Gaza for years by supplying electricity and water," Behar said.

Some activists at COP28 say the war in Gaza should not be allowed to dominate the climate negotiations because climate change itself will be the cause of future conflicts around the world.

"The entire purpose of COP is to come together as a global community and work together to develop adaptation and mitigation measures," said Matthew Mairinger, president of North American Young Generation in Nuclear, a North Carolina-based nuclear-friendly group.

"Therefore, it is crucial to continue to host these meetings and negotiations even during times of war," he said. "We face a global problem, and we need to come together with a global solution."

This article was prepared with the support of a COP28 Climate Justice Fellowship by Climate Tracker.
The presidents of Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology were questioned by House lawmakers on Tuesday over whether their administrations are doing enough to combat the wave of antisemitism that has swept their campuses as the Israel-Hamas war rages.

Republican Representative Virginia Foxx said the three presidents were called to testify because we heard in particular that the most egregious situations have occurred on these campuses.

Claudine Gay, president of Harvard University, faced particularly difficult lines of questioning from congressional Republicans, including one fraught exchange with Representative Elise Stefanik, who demanded that Gay resign.

Stefanik, a Harvard alumnus herself, grilled Gay over whether the university would rescind admission offers to students who support Hamas murderous beliefs.

Gay pushed back, saying she would not commit to punishing students simply for expressing their views, even if she finds them personally abhorrent, apparently reversing university policy.

In 2017, Harvard reneged on admission offers for 10 would-be students after it came out that they circulated racist memes in a group chat.

The theme of Gays testimony was her dual commitment to combating hate while preserving free expression.

Gay said her administration would only punish hateful, reckless, offensive speech when it crosses the line into physical violence or targeted harassment.

Foxx, the panels chair, railed against Gay and the other university leaders, claiming that institutional antisemitism and hate are among the poisoned fruits of your institutions cultures."

Republican lawmakers repeatedly criticized progressivism and tied it to antisemitism in higher education.

All three university presidents outlined their strategies for ensuring student safety and open discourse on the Israel-Hamas war.

"As an American, as a Jew, and as a human being, I abhor antisemitism. And my administration is combating it actively, Sally Kornbluth, president of MIT, said, adding that problematic speech needs to be countered with other speech and education.

Kornbluth said free speech that promotes harassment or incites violence is not protected by the university, but those who try to shut down campus protests are essentially advocating for unworkable speech codes."

Harvard and UPenn have struggled. Both schools found themselves under investigation by the Department of Education over complaints of antisemitism on campus.

This is difficult work, and I know I have not always gotten it right, Gay said of her efforts to promote free speech and inclusion. She noted the difficulty of balancing the concerns of different groups, including Harvards Muslim community, which Gay noted faces the threat of rising Islamophobia.

During these difficult days, I have felt the bonds of our community strained, Gay told lawmakers.

UPenn President M. Elizabeth Magill came under fire for the Palestine Writes Festival, an event hosted at her university in September that was a flashpoint of antisemitism, according to a complaint submitted to the Department of Education.

Magill condemned antisemitic rhetoric at the festival but maintained that measures had been instituted to ensure student safety.

The presidents made clear to the Republican-run House Committee on Education and the Workforce that their schools have taken steps to prevent harassment and bullying, including public announcements.

The president of Columbia was invited but did not attend, citing a scheduling conflict, Foxxs office said.

November polling by the Anti-Defamation League and Hillel found that, since Oct. 7, 46% of Jewish students felt safe at their colleges, a marked drop from 67% before the war. Students across the nation said they were wary of walking around their campuses wearing a Star of David necklace, kippah or other emblems of Judaism.



In late October, an upperclassman at Cornell was taken into federal custody after allegedly making online posts promising to kill any and every Jew he saw on campus.



The Council on American-Islamic Relations and other advocacy groups reported that hate crimes against Muslim students were also on the rise.



Last month, a white man allegedly shot three Palestinian American college students in Burlington, Vermont. And, at Stanford, an Arab student was struck in a hit-and-run as the driver shouted, F you people! according to witnesses.

Pro-Palestinian protesters have been doxxed  their names and pictures paraded around their campuses on mobile billboard trucks  in what activists say are attempts to intimidate them into silence.
In India, a journalist and a member of the countrys low caste community runs a news website where the reporting is focused on groups that have been marginalized for centuries. Meena Kotwal hopes that turning the spotlight on issues affecting the 300 million strong Dalit community will help redress the discrimination they often suffer.

Meena Kotwal is on her way to interview a former teacher at Delhi University who is protesting her termination from a temporary post, blaming it on caste discrimination.

It is one of many stories concerning the low caste Dalit community that her news website, The Mooknayak, has covered in over two years.

Kotwal, a Dalit and a journalist, launched her outlet after seeing that injustices suffered by the community often went unreported. She attributes the lack of coverage to the near absence of low caste journalists in leadership positions in mainstream media.

According to Kotwal, stories about Dalits are covered in a few lines or small columns in newspapers. They dont get coverage in prime time or debates because there are no editors from the community.

For centuries, the Dalits were at the bottom of the Hindu caste system. Caste-based discrimination has been outlawed and some Dalits have risen to high political posts. But prejudice is still pervasive against the nearly 300 million strong community.

Although caste-based discrimination is outlawed and some have risen to high political posts, discrimination is still pervasive according to author and political analyst Neerja Chowdhury.

That is what Mooknayak, which means "the voice of the voiceless," aims to do. Kotwals team highlights instances where marginalized communities suffer injustice.

Kotwal cites the example of a story on how the Dalit-dominated Balia village in Uttar Pradesh had not been given an electricity connection for 75 years. Within three months the government provided power to the village. She says these kind of stories have an impact.

The emergence of such media can help amplify the concerns of the Dalit community according to Chowdhury.

The Mooknayak initially relied on crowdfunding and donated equipment, but is exploring other sources of funding as it grows. Kotwal is optimistic. Her main goal is to establish credibility.

Kotwal points out that if BBC, Al Jazeera or other big news outlets do a story, it is seen as factually correct. That is the kind of trust she aspires to build -- that if her news website reports on an incident, it will be regarded as absolutely accurate.

Through its reporting, The Mooknayak's website hopes to make a mark by raising awareness about the issues of the Dalit community.
Israeli troops and Hamas militants battled Wednesday in house-to-house fighting for control of Khan Younis, Gazas second-biggest city, as Palestinian civilians faced increasing difficulty finding shelter and access to humanitarian aid.

Israels military said Wednesday it had carried out airstrikes on about 250 targets in the Gaza Strip during the past day, in some of the heaviest fighting of the two-month-old war.

Hamas said it killed 10 Israeli soldiers in Khan Younis and injured several more, a claim that could not be immediately verified.

The United Nations reported a significant intensification of Israeli bombardments of Gaza since Monday afternoon, along with the intense ground fighting, as well as increased Hamas rocket fire targeting Israel.

Hundreds of thousands of Gazans continued to flee to the west and south of Khan Younis, including to Rafah, which is on the border with Egypt. But the United Nations said shelters there were far beyond capacity, forcing the displaced Palestinians to sleep in the streets or in empty lots.

Israeli officials warned Gaza civilians not to approach Salah al-Din Road, the main highway that connects Khan Younis to northern Gaza, calling it a battlefield and extremely dangerous. Instead, the officials said the displaced civilians attempting to head north should use the main coastal road, but fighting continued there, too.

The U.N. said that, as of Tuesday night, Rafah was the only area in Gaza where any humanitarian aid was being distributed. With the expiration of the seven-day truce last Friday, the remainder of the narrow territory along the Mediterranean Sea was largely unreachable from the border crossing.

Israel in recent days has issued evacuation orders to an estimated 600,000 residents of areas where the Israeli military expected fighting to ensue, but it urged them to go to places ill-equipped to handle a surge of people.

Under international humanitarian law, the place where you evacuate people to must, by law, have sufficient resources for their survival  medical facilities, food and water, James Elder, a spokesman for the United Nations Childrens Fund, told reporters via video link from Cairo after visiting Gaza, according to Reuters.

"I've seen for myself these are entirely, entirely absent. ... These are tiny patches of barren land, or they're street corners. They're sidewalks. They're half-built buildings. There is no water, he said. The common thing they have is no water, no facilities, no shelter from cold and rain, and particularly no sanitation.

Shifting territorial focus

The expansion of the war in southern Gaza follows an initial focus on areas in the north, including Gaza City. It also follows weeks of Israeli military orders for civilians to move to the south to stay away from the fighting.

But with the Mediterranean Sea to the west, and closed borders with Egypt and Israel to the south and east, the space available for people to flee to is shrinking.

The U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees says an estimated 1.9 million people are displaced within Gaza, amounting to nearly 85% of the population, and 1 million of them are registered at U.N. shelters in southern Gaza.

U.N. human rights chief Volker Turk said at a briefing Wednesday that Palestinians in Gaza are living in utter, deepening horror and that civilians are being deprived of food, water and medical supplies.

"Military operations, including bombardments by Israeli forces, continue in north, middle and south Gaza, affecting people who have already been displaced multiple times, forced to flee in search of safety, he said. But no place is safe."

Israel has accused Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist group, of embedding itself in and underneath hospitals and other civilian areas and encouraging civilians to ignore Israeli warnings to evacuate ahead of airstrikes  in effect, using them as human shields  an accusation Hamas has denied.

Israel began its military campaign to end Hamas rule of Gaza after Hamas fighters crossed into southern Israel on October 7, killing about 1,200 people and taking about 240 people as hostages.

In its military offensive, Israel has killed at least 16,240 people in Gaza, 70% of them women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza.

Post-war buffer zone

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan rejected a reported Israeli proposal for a post-war buffer zone in Gaza to help prevent future attacks on Israel.

Israel had conveyed the post-war proposal to several Arab states and other countries, with the plan involving the buffer zone on the Palestinian side of the Gaza border, not including Israeli land.

White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby says the U.S. opposes the idea.

We dont support any reduction of the geographic limits of Gaza, Kirby told reporters when Israel first broached the idea. Gaza must remain Palestinian land and cannot be reduced.

Turkish media cited Erdogan saying that Gazas future would be decided by the Palestinian people and that the Israeli plan was disrespectful.

Some information for this story came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
Italy officially told China that it will leave the Belt and Road Initiative, or BRI, the first country to do so since the project was launched a decade ago. Despite the decision, Rome still plans to maintain good relations with Beijing, government sources said on Wednesday.

Beijing launched the BRI, a global infrastructure and transportation plan, in 2013, aiming to boost connectivity between China and nations in Eurasia, Africa, Oceania and Latin America. Critics argue that one key goal, though, is to expand the influence of the Chinese Communist Party. Nearly 150 countries, or about 75% of the global population, have joined.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has long been critical of the partnership, once calling the 2019 decision to join the BRI a serious mistake. After Meloni took office last year, she said the economic promise of the deal had never materialized.

The agreement, which is good through March 2024, will not be renewed, sources in her coalition said.

We have every intention of maintaining excellent relations with China even if we are no longer part of the Belt and Road Initiative, one official told Reuters news agency on condition of anonymity.

Another source, also speaking on condition of anonymity, said the exit was orchestrated in such a way as to keep channels of political dialogue open, but wouldnt elaborate.

As the first country that has withdrawn from BRI, Italy is going to be viewed by China with a lot of skepticism and curiosity, said Yun Sun, director of the China Program at the Stimson Center.

Sun pointed out that Italy could have canceled its BRI-related projects rather than backing out of the program wholesale. The full-fledged exit has political optics, she said.

I wouldnt say that their bilateral relationship is going to break up because of this decision, Sun said. But it certainly doesnt cast a positive light over their bilateral interactions in the foreseeable future.

The Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, which broke the news, reported that Romes intention to leave the BRI was communicated to Beijing earlier in the week.

Some experts think the timing of the notification could have been intentional. China is set to host a summit with European Union officials on Thursday. The talks will span a number of intricate issues, including trade deficits and technology.

Perhaps there was an agreement with the EU leaders that Italy would notify China before the EU meeting so that this [withdrawal] wouldnt lead to any misunderstandings, said Francesco Sisci, a Beijing-based columnist for SettimanaNews, an Italian news outlet.

When Italy became a BRI member nation four years ago, then-Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte had high hopes for booming trade. But China has since raked in most of the profits.

Annual Chinese exports to Italy nearly doubled from $34 billion in 2019 to $62 billion today. During that same period, Italian exports to China rose modestly from $14 billion to $17.7 billion.

Italy, which will host a meeting of the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations, or G7, in 2024 and serve as rotating president next year, is the only major Western power to have signed onto the pact. This came, despite the United States caution that China might gain undue control over technology and infrastructure.

Italy joining the BRI in 2019 sent the wrong message to other EU and NATO members, Sisci told VOA. Melonis government, he said, is now signaling that it is back in line with its partners and allies.

Meloni, a standard-bearer for right-wing populism in Europe, has been eager to show the world that Italy stands with NATO. In June, her Cabinet limited the power Chinese shareholder Sinochem had over the Italian tire company Pirelli. According to a government source, she promised U.S. President Joe Biden earlier this year that Italy would back out of the BRI.

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani flew to Beijing in September on a diplomatic mission, and President Sergio Mattarella is expected to visit China in 2024. Meloni has said she also wants to visit Beijing.

Some information for this report came from Reuters.
When police arrived at the home of Aziz Orujov, the Azerbaijani journalist's 3-year-old daughter tried to stand between her father and the masked officials there to arrest him.

Video shows the girl, her hair in pigtails and barely measuring up to her father's waist, wrap her arms around Orujov as masked men stand in the corner.

"She's trying to keep Aziz from the police and tries not to let him go with them," Orujov's brother Anar Orujov told VOA.

Arrested in late November on illegal construction charges that media advocates view as retaliatory, Aziz Orujov will be held in pre-trial detention for three months.

If convicted, the director of the independent channel Kanal 13 faces up to three years in prison.

Orujov is one of six independent journalists detained in Azerbaijan over the past two weeks. Press freedom experts say the move is politically motivated and underscores the lack of civil liberties for the media and Azeri society.

"It's shocking and outrageous to see this high number of journalists being arrested in such a short time frame," said Karol Luczka, who works on Azerbaijan at the Vienna-based International Press Institute. "I haven't seen anything like this in the region."

Journalists consider arrests retaliatory

The first journalist detained was Ulvi Hasanli, the director of the independent outlet Abzas Media. Police arrested Hasanli early on November 20 on suspicion of illegally bringing money into the country. Police later raided his apartment and searched Abzas Media's offices. In a statement posted on Facebook, Abzas Media said Hasanli's arrest and the raid were part of President Ilham Aliyev's pressure on the outlet for "a series of investigations into the corruption crimes of the president and officials appointed by him."

In the days that followed, authorities arrested Sevinj Vagifgizi, the outlet's editor in chief; Mahammad Kekalov, the deputy director; and Nargiz Absalamova, a journalist.

All are in pretrial detention for terms of between three and four months and stand accused of illegally bringing money into the country.

Azerbaijan's Washington embassy did not reply to VOA's email requesting comment.

International groups condemn arrests

One of the few remaining independent outlets in Azerbaijan, Abzas Media is known for its coverage of corruption, including allegations that touch on the ruling family.

"[Abzas Media] is for ordinary people, ordinary people in Azerbaijan, ordinary readers who should know what happens in their own country. So that's why they were so dangerous," said Shahin Hajiyev, executive director of the media development fund, the Najaf Najafov Foundation.

At Kanal 13, in addition to the arrest of the founder Orujov, police on December 4 arrested Rufat Muradli, a presenter, on charges of minor hooliganism and disobeying police orders. He was sentenced to 30 days in prison.

Anar Orujov, Aziz's brother and Kanal 13's editor in chief, has been watching this latest media crackdown from Germany, where he has lived in exile since 2014.

International press freedom and human rights groups have widely condemned the arrests. Hajiyev, who heads the media development fund, says large numbers of arrests, which have occurred before in Azerbaijan, are likely to discourage younger people from pursuing independent journalism.

"It has a very negative influence on younger generations of journalists who will realize that if they [do] independent journalism, they have no future in this country," he said.

Media watchdogs have said the arrests appear to be politically motivated.

But Azerbaijani Minister of Internal Affairs Vilayat Eyvazov told the Committee to Protect Journalists  often referred to as CPJ  that such claims of a politically motivated crackdown are "completely groundless."

Eyvazov said that Hasanli, Vagifgizi and Kekalov had smuggled "a large amount of foreign currency" across Azerbaijan's border. Gulnoza Said, the Europe and Central Asia program coordinator at the CPJ, sees a geopolitical goal in the arrests.

In the wake of Azerbaijan's military victory in Nagorno-Karabakh  the disputed region that Azerbaijan took from ethnic Armenian control in September  Baku is trying to show governments that have been supportive of Armenia that it has complete control over the media, according to Said.

On November 28, Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry said it summoned the U.S., French and German envoys to condemn what it described as "illegal financial operations" in the three countries to support Abzas Media. 'Complete environment of fear'

"That's supposed to serve as a warning" to not support the outlets or Armenia, Said told VOA.
Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai has made an impassioned plea for what she calls gender apartheid to be made a crime under international law. Speaking at an event in South Africa, Yousafzai called on the world to pay attention to whats happening to girls and women under Taliban rule in Afghanistan.

Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist who survived being shot in the head when she was 15 years old by Taliban gunmen for daring to pursue an education, delivered the annual Nelson Mandela Foundation lecture in South Africa Tuesday, which this year marked a decade since the death of South Africas first democratically elected president.

The twenty-six-year-old drew parallels between Mandelas long struggle against white minority rule and racial segregation under the apartheid regime in South Africa and the situation facing women in Afghanistan in the two years since the Taliban returned to power.



With Mandelas legacy in mind, I asked myself: What injustice is the world overlooking? Where are we allowing inhumanity to become the status quo? The answer for me was very clear, and very personal: the oppression of girls and women in Afghanistan, she said.

Yousafzai, who won the Nobel Peace Prize aged just 17, decried the fact that other crises have drawn the worlds attention away from the situation in Afghanistan, where girls are not allowed to attend secondary school and women are banned from working or even leaving the house on their own.

South Africans fought for racial apartheid to be recognized and criminalized at the international level But gender apartheid has not been explicitly codified yet. That is why I call on every government, in every country, to make gender apartheid a crime against humanity, she said.

Mandelas widow, and womens rights advocate, Graca Machel, also spoke at the event.

Let's be very precise, this thing of men thinking that they have a right over the lives of women, this thing of them believing that they have a right over the bodies of women, it has to stop now! said Machel.



Yousafzai said the United Nations should adopt language on gender apartheid in a new Crimes Against Humanity Treaty it is drafting.
David Panuelo, former president of the Federated States of Micronesia or FSM, has been in Washington lobbying lawmakers to approve legislation that he says Micronesia needs to counter Beijings political and economic pressure across the region.

Panuelo spoke with VOA last week about what is at stake if Congress does not fund the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2023. The bill updates the agreement governing the relationships between the United States and the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Republic of Palau and the FSM.

House Republicans want $2.3 billion in spending offsets to pay for the $7.1 billion in aid for the region where the U.S. and China are competing for influence and military access to strategic areas of the Pacific Ocean. As of now, there is no agreement on the offsets.

Panuelo, who once supported a stronger relationship with China, left office on March 9 with a warning in letters to his successor, Wesley Simina, about the dangers of Beijings influence campaign. The letters later became public. He also alleged that China had bribed Micronesian elected representatives, which China called smears.

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

VOA: In 2021, you referred to the Chinese Communist Party as our very dear Chinese friends. Why?

David Panuelo, former president of the Federated States of Micronesia: Our foreign policy is, Friend to all, and enemy to none.

VOA: What changed your thinking on Chinas presence in Micronesia?

Panuelo: It was the culmination of events that brought me to the point of putting it [in letters].

My third letter prompted Chinese agents to come to our nation to meet some of our leaders, including a governor who later came to me to disclose that they went to him to [ask me to] go against my letter [warning Pacific Island leaders about negative Chinese influence]. You can see that this activity alone is very serious  how they can interfere in our internal political affairs.

There is, for example, the envelopes that our vice president disclosed he was given.

VOA: Envelopes?

Panuelo: [Envelopes] with cash, which he gave back to the Chinese officials.

VOA: Your vice president was given envelopes of cash from the Chinese?

Panuelo: Correct, and he had disclosed that to me. And so, you can see that they are seeking influence. During my administration, I had to stop the [Chinese] research vessels from coming into our [countrys waters], because through information and intelligence, we learned theyre doing more than just research.

VOA: What will happen if Micronesia does not get the $3.3 billion under the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act?

Panuelo: I'm here [in Washington, D.C.] meeting friends to look at expeditious approval in Congress, because it's already past the current fiscal year [in Micronesia]. And a lot of our leaders are waiting on the funding to make sure that we continue with [the] education of our children, the health care of our folks.

VOA: Why can't Micronesia close the gap with your trust fund thats valued at close to $1 billion?

Panuelo: The first compact [of free association in 1982]  we did not invest. We started late with the second [2003] renewal. That's when we invested the trust fund so that we can build it up. If we start dipping into it, it's not going to be sustainable, and so it's not going to be wise.

VOA: Whats your message to Congress?

Panelo: This is important for the security of the entire Indo-Pacific region, because our region has strategic value that is the cornerstone of foreign policy of the United States in the Pacific.

Our treaty has defense ties that we delegated through our constitution to give the United States some of, if not most of, the defense responsibilities, because we lack defense capacity. We consider ourselves a part of the homeland security of the United States, even though we are a sovereign nation.

VOA: What happens if this doesn't pass?

Panuelo: It will open the window wider that's already been opened for Chinese influence to come in. I think China is making every effort to come in with the influence to try to disrupt our strong and enduring partnership with the United States.
More than 50 civilians were killed in attacks in Ethiopia last month, a human rights body said Wednesday, barely two weeks after talks between the government and a rebel group from the country's most populous region ended without agreement.

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission  an independent, state-affiliated body  said that fighters from the Oromo Liberation Army, or OLA, killed 17 people and burned down villages in Benishangul-Gumuz, which borders the Oromia region.

Classified as a "terrorist organization" by Addis Ababa, the OLA has been fighting the government since 2018 after splitting from the Oromo Liberation Front when it renounced armed struggle.

The human rights commission said another 30 people were killed in Oromia's Arsi zone in a string of attacks by unidentified assailants, with the victims including multiple members of the same family.

"It's now known that the attackers killed the victims by lining them up after taking them out of their home, while some others were killed inside their home," the human rights commission said in its report.

"Among the deceased are an infant baby, pregnant women and an 80-year-old elderly person. ... An unknown number of people who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical treatment," the commission said.

"In addition, nine members of the Hamo-Tokuma diocese of Lutheran church located in ... Qellem Wollega zone, Oromia region were killed by as of yet unidentified attackers on November 25," it said.

All the attacks took place between November 23 and 29, after talks in Tanzania to put an end to five years of insurrection ended November 21, with each side blaming the other for the breakdown.

On Saturday, local authorities in Oromia accused the OLA of carrying out "horrendous and brutal" attacks against "many civilians" in the Arsi zone, without giving further details about when those assaults occurred.

The OLA's strength, estimated at a few thousand men in 2018, has increased in recent years, although observers believe it is insufficiently organized or well-armed to pose a real threat to the government.

The Oromo ethnic group accounts for about a third of the 120 million inhabitants of Africa's second-most populous country.

The OLA has been accused by the government of orchestrating massacres, something the rebels deny. The authorities in turn are accused of waging an indiscriminate crackdown that has fueled Oromo resentment.
A Pakistani diplomat said Wednesday that nearly 450,000 Afghan nationals returned to their home country since his government announced two months ago that it would deport all undocumented foreigners.

Asif Durrani, Pakistans special envoy to Afghanistan, shared the latest data while addressing a seminar in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad. He spoke on a day the United Nations renewed its warning that Afghans returning from Pakistan face a precarious, uncertain future in their crisis-hit and impoverished nation.

The Pakistani government says its crackdown is primarily targeting an estimated 1.7 million Afghans who have overstayed their visas or do not possess any document to justify their stay in the country.

Those who have been asked to leave are the illegal immigrants here. They dont enjoy the refugee status, Durrani stressed. So, almost 450,000 [Afghans] have left. They knew that they were illegal stayers here in Pakistan.

Those subjects of the deportation drive include close to 700,000 people who took refuge in Pakistan after the withdrawal of the United States and NATO troops from Afghanistan in August 2021.

Durrani clarified again, however, that nearly 2.3 million documented Afghan nationals, including 1.4 legal refugees, hosted by his country are not being asked to leave.

The envoy rejected international criticism of the lawful expulsions, saying countries around the world routinely deport foreigners who breach their immigration laws. It [deportation] becomes legal there in Europe or elsewhere but doesnt become legal here in Pakistan, he said. I think we need to remove this confusion.

Washington is pressing Islamabad to prevent the deportation of approximately 25,000 vulnerable individuals who fled the Talibans August 2021 takeover in Afghanistan and could be eligible for relocation to or resettlement in the United States.

Julieta Valls Noyes, the U.S. assistant secretary of state for the Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration, discussed the resettlement of the Afghan refugees with Pakistani officials during her visit to Islamabad this week, the U.S. Embassy said in a statement Wednesday.

It stated that Noyes discussed how both countries can work together to accelerate the processing of Afghan nationals eligible for relocation or resettlement in the United States, expressed the U.S. desire to continue working with the government of Pakistan as we process individuals in U.S. resettlement pathways, and encouraged upholding international humanitarian principles, including non-refoulment, and protecting vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers.

Noyes also met with U.N. officials in Islamabad and "heard directly from Afghan refugees on the concerns most important to them, said the embassy statement.

A Pakistani official privy to the Noyes discussions with counterparts in Islamabad told VOA on Tuesday the United States did not oppose Islamabads deportation of illegal Afghan nationals but requested the process be slowed down during winter.

Meanwhile, the U.N. World Food Program said Wednesday that returnees are unsure how they will survive a devastating winter in Afghanistan, where more than 6 million people are already internally displaced nationwide.

These families arrive at the worst of times and face a bleak future in a country where one-third of people do not know where their next meal will come from, said Hsiao-Wei Lee, the WFP country director. Leaving behind their homes and livelihoods, they return to start over in a country that gives them few economic opportunities and where many struggle to survive.

The WFP said it urgently needs $26.3 million to support 1 million returnees from Pakistan arriving in Afghanistan and help them through the winter and into the first months of next year.

In his Wednesday speech, Durrani cited growing terrorist attacks in the country, among other factors, for unleashing the crackdown on undocumented Afghan and other foreign nationals. He said fugitive militants linked to the anti-state Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP, are plotting the bloodshed from their sanctuaries on Afghan soil.

The TTPs enhanced attacks on Pakistan while using Afghan soil have been a serious source of concern for Pakistan, the envoy reiterated. He reported a 65% increase in TTP attacks in the countrys border areas this year, saying suicide bombings shot up 500% during the same period.

Another worrying aspect of these attacks has been the involvement of Afghans. Out of 24 attacks by the TTP, 14 were Afghan nationals, Durrani said.
The United States has implemented a new visa restriction policy against several dozen extremist Israeli settlers who have attacked Palestinian residents in the West Bank, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced Tuesday. The move, which also affects Palestinians who have attacked Israelis in the occupied territory, is a sign of the White Houses unease over the escalating violence in the area and what it perceives as the right-wing Israeli governments disinterest in curbing it.

Washington will prohibit entry into its territory to those who have been involved in undermining peace, security, or stability in the West Bank, including through committing acts of violence or taking other actions that unduly restrict civilians access to essential services and basic necessities, Blinken said. Immediate family members of such persons also may be subject to these restrictions, he added. The State Department did not make public the names of those who will be sanctioned.

The restrictions will go into effect immediately, U.S. diplomatic spokesman Matthew Miller confirmed at a daily press briefing. Those sanctioned who had valid visas to travel to the United States will receive a notification that their permits have been cancelled.

The ban does not affect Israeli settlers with dual U.S. citizenship. Approximately 15% of the total number of these settlers hold U.S. passports and, as citizens, do not require visas to enter the United States.

This is the first time since Bill Clintons term in office (1993-2001) that Washington has taken punitive measures against settlers in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The U.S. will continue to seek accountability for all acts of violence against civilians in the West Bank, regardless of the perpetrator or the victim, Blinken added. We also continue to engage with the Israeli leadership to make clear that Israel must take additional measures to protect Palestinian civilians from extremist attacks.

That the United States was considering the imposition of sanctions had already been anticipated by President Joe Biden himself, who in several speeches had expressed his concern about the increase in violence in the West Bank. In an article published two weeks ago in The Washington Post, the president had already warned that travel restrictions would be imposed on those responsible for violence in the Palestinian territory, which the State Department describes as being at levels not seen since the Second Intifada between 2000 and 2005.

Washington fears that the escalation of violence could lead to the creation of another front in the war between Israel and Hamas and expand the current conflict in Gaza to other parts of the Middle East. It is a concern shared by other governments: France on Tuesday issued a condemnation of violence by groups of settlers in the West Bank [against] Palestinians, particularly the attack in Qarawat Bani Hassan on Sunday, in the presence of the Israeli armed forces, during which a Palestinian was killed. Paris has demanded that Israel immediately take the necessary measures to stop these unacceptable attacks and protect civilian populations, in accordance with its responsibilities as the occupying power in the West Bank.

These attacks  which had already been on the rise over the past three years as a result of the Israeli governments shift to the extreme right  have doubled since the start of the Israel-Hamas war two months ago, according to U.N. figures. This has led to 260 Palestinians being killed in the West Bank, according to Palestinian authorities. The violence has also caused the displacement of entire communities, Miller said Tuesday.

The United States is demanding that Israel take significant measures to stop the perpetrators of this violence against Palestinians, and considers that so far the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not shown much interest in preventing it. This is something Blinken himself raised with Israeli authorities during his visit to Israel last week, the third since the beginning of the crisis.

We have underscored to the Israeli government the need to do more to hold accountable extremist settlers who have committed violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank. As President Biden has repeatedly said, those attacks are unacceptable, the Secretary of State stressed. Last week in Israel, I made clear that the United States is ready to take action using our own authorities, Blinken added in Tuesdays statement.

We will also continue to engage the Palestinian Authority to make clear it must do more to curb Palestinian attacks against Israelis. Both Israel and the Palestinian Authority have the responsibility to uphold stability in the West Bank. Instability in the West Bank both harms the Israeli and Palestinian people and threatens Israels national security interests. Those responsible for it must be held accountable, Blinken sentenced.

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Philippine police named two Filipino members of a pro-Islamic State militant group on Wednesday as suspects in the deadly bombing of a Catholic mass in the country's insurgency-plagued south.

Four people were killed and 50 were wounded in Sunday's attack on worshippers gathered inside a university gym in Marawi, the country's largest Muslim city, which was besieged by militants in 2017.

The Islamic State group claimed the bombing, which President Ferdinand Marcos blamed on "foreign terrorists."

Police said previously they were chasing four men in connection with the assault, which the military has described as a possible revenge attack for their operations against militant groups in the region.

The two suspects named on Wednesday  Kadapi Mimbesa and Arsani Membisa  belonged to the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute group, police regional director Brigadier General Allan Nobleza told a news conference.

A third man, still unidentified, acted as a lookout for the attackers, Nobleza said.

"We are mobilizing all our resources to ensure that the perpetrators are put behind bars so they could answer the crimes that they have committed," Nobleza told reporters.

Maute was one of the pro-IS groups that held Marawi under siege in 2017.

The Philippine military wrested back the ruined city after a five-month battle that claimed more than 1,000 lives.

Witnesses told police that Mimbesa and Membisa wore face masks when they entered the gym before Sunday's service and were seen acting suspiciously, Nobleza said.

The men were already wanted by police for illegal possession of explosives and murder, he said.

Militant attacks on buses, Catholic churches and public markets have been a feature of decades-long unrest in the region.

Manila signed a peace pact with the nation's largest rebel group, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, in 2014, ending their deadly armed rebellion.

But smaller bands of Muslim fighters opposed to the peace deal remain, including militants professing allegiance to the Islamic State group. Communist rebels also operate in the region.
Twenty-three Thai citizens have returned home from a weeks-long ordeal in Gaza; Hamas had taken the migrant workers captive during the militants' October 7 assault on Israel.

It was the sixth day of Wichian Temthong's employment on an avocado farm when Hamas militants stormed into kibbutz Sa'ad in a hail of bullets and grenades, killing seven other Thai migrant workers and taking him hostage.

He was marched into Gaza, his hands tied by wire, and spent the next seven weeks in captivity until his release in late November alongside 22 other Thais during a now-lapsed cease-fire.

The 37-year-old is back in northeastern Thailand, at home surrounded by the love of family and a close-knit rural community that he says helps him through the sleepless nights.

But his thoughts are already drifting toward a return to Israel to complete his employment contract and go beyond the subsistence economy that caps the aspirations of people in his village of Ban Chaiyaphot in Buriram, in Thailand's Isan region.

"They let me take a six-month break until I'm mentally recovered. By then if they stop fighting, I will request to return to work. I only worked for six days, I haven't earned anything yet," he said, as his youngest son climbed over him.

"Without me, things would be really hard around here. My wife only earns 10,000 baht ($280/ month), my mom doesn't have any income, and I've got two kids. I have this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity so I want to go back."

His wish list is simple: to support his parents, build a home and a nest egg to pay for his two young sons (ages 5 and 10) to be educated  impossible tasks on the daily laborer's wages of around $10 in his home area.

In Israel, Thai workers on fruit farms and in factories can earn up to $1,700 a month on contracts that run for a maximum of five years. That means sending home upward of $15,000 a year  around five times the annual salary in the rice bowl Isan.

More than 30,000 Thais worked in Israel before the conflict erupted. Thousands have returned home, but many have stayed and others are poised to join them as soon as the violence ends.

Inequality shapes choices

Migration to Thailand's cities or overseas is shaping Isan's communities, as the young seek fortunes outside and successive governments fail to substantially raise incomes or education levels.

"Isan is Thailand's poorest region; often parents rely on their children to support them," said Chalee Loysoong, adviser to the Thai Labour Solidarity Committee.

"Migration has changed the sense of community; it's deteriorated the culture and tradition," he told VOA. "We used to live like a family in a village, but migration forced us to be estranged from one another and focus only on survival."

A World Bank study published last week said Thailand remains one of the most unequal nations in East Asia "as over half the country's wealth is held by the richest 10 percent of the population."

"In 2020, the average per capita GDP in Bangkok was more than 6.5 times that of the Northeast region, which had the lowest GDP per capita in the country."

Low educational attainment at poorly funded rural schools, including poor preschool enrollment, play out into high dropout rates, the study said, putting much of Isan's youth on course for a lifetime of manual work.

Nine still in Gaza

Nine other Thais remain inside Gaza  and to protect them none of the freed Thai workers is willing to speak about conditions of their captivity.

"I've spoken to a few leaders of several nations and have confirmed that the hostages are being held in several locations," Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara told reporters at the airport November 30.

"So no one knows whether the remaining nine hostages are together or held in separate locations. No one knows when these nine will be freed," he said, pledging to keep up the diplomacy to free them.

At his home in Surin province, his wrists covered in the orange holy threads practiced by Thai Buddhists, another freed hostage, Khomkrit Chombua, 28, said he worked in Israel for four years  just enough to build most of the house for his family.

"I'm so happy to be back. It feels like I've been reborn," he told VOA.

He has not ruled out a return to Israel.

"I want to spend time with my folks first, finishing up the house I built for them. And I'll decide later."
Governments in more than two dozen countries are using threats, attacks and legal action to retaliate against journalists and critics who fled overseas, a new report has found.

At a time when repressive laws, unrest and conflict are forcing high numbers of journalists into exile, the nonprofit Freedom House has seen an increase in efforts by hostile governments to retaliate against critics.

Over the past decade, at least 26 governments targeted journalists abroad in a process known as transnational repression, according to a report released by the group on Wednesday.

It documents 112 cases of physical transnational repression perpetrated against reporters between 2014 and 2023. Some of the journalists work for established media outlets, others are freelance, and the report cited cases of those who work for VOA's sister outlets.

"All of those are attempts to stifle their critical reporting. And I think, ultimately, it's because governments in power do fear the truth and do fear information that can hold them to account," report co-author Jessica White told VOA.

The perpetrators are a who's who of authoritarian governments, including Moscow, Beijing, Tehran and Phnom Penh.

"The latest chapter in the growing authoritarian playbook is to go after exiled journalists who tell the truth about a regime's priorities, performance, and misdeeds," Freedom House President Michael Abramowitz said in a statement.

The tactics vary from assaults to detentions and unlawful deportations. But indirect and digital transnational repression  like online harassment and doxing, where private information about someone is posted online  is even more common, according to White.

"The issue of these more indirect and digital forms of transnational repression is that they're harder to track," White said.

China and Russia  both known for their repressive domestic media environments  are among those targeting critical reporters in exile.

In some cases, family members who still live in the countries are harassed as a way to indirectly target the reporter. That tactic is documented in China's Xinjiang region, where the government threatens and detains family members of Uyghur journalists who live in exile.

"The punishment for a person who speaks truth to power is punishing their entire family," Gulchehra Hoja, a journalist with Radio Free Asia's Uyghur Service, told Freedom House.

Some of Hoja's family members were targeted after she started working at Radio Free Asia, VOA's sister outlet.

In a statement emailed to VOA, a spokesperson at China's Washington embassy denied that Beijing retaliates against journalists and critics, saying there is "no such thing as 'transnational repression'" in China.

Liu Pengyu, the spokesperson, said that China abides by international law, that journalists "enjoy full freedom" to report in accordance with the law, and that Beijing's mass detention of Uyghurs is about "countering violence, terrorism and separatism.... which has won the heartfelt support of the people."

The Iranian government featured among the most brazen perpetrators, a fact VOA Persian host Masih Alinejad is acutely familiar with.

Alinejad was the target of a 2021 kidnapping attempt in New York, which the FBI says was part of a Tehran plot to bring her to Iran. And the Justice Department in January indicted three people it says are part of an Eastern European organized crime gang, who in a separate case allegedly plotted to murder Alinejad.

Since the 2021 attempt, the Iranian American journalist has received U.S. government protection and moves frequently between safe houses.

Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately reply to VOA's email requesting comment.

To Alinejad, everyone should care about transnational repression  not just those who are directly affected.

"Transnational repression is not just a threat for us, for dissidents. It's a threat to democracy," Alinejad told VOA.

"That's why I think every single person who lives in democracy should care about it, because dictators are not targeting us  they're targeting democracy. They're targeting freedom of expression. They're targeting freedom of speech," she said.

White told VOA that if transnational repression succeeds, "the risk is that we end up being cut off from whole segments of the world."

Democratic governments around the world have a duty to better support and protect journalists living in exile in their countries, White said, including by making humanitarian visas more readily available.

Social media companies also have a responsibility to protect exiled reporters, since digital transnational repression takes place on their platforms, White added.

Transnational repression often takes a psychological toll on its targets, according to White, and can lead reporters to self-censor or stop working entirely.

For Alinejad, the U.S. government has suggested she enter witness protection, she said. But stopping her work was out of the question.

"I don't have any guns and bullets  I don't carry weapons. But this government, they have everything, and they're really scared of me," Alinejad said, referring to the Iranian government. "And that gives me power  that, wow, even with my words, even with my social media, I'm more powerful than them."
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres renewed his call for a humanitarian cease-fire in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, warning that public order could completely break down soon, and the humanitarian system there is at severe risk of collapse.

Amid constant bombardment by the Israel Defense Forces, and without shelter or the essentials to survive, I expect the public order to completely break down soon due to the desperate conditions, rendering even limited humanitarian assistance impossible, Guterres warned in a letter to the U.N. Security Council.

An even worse situation could unfold, including epidemic diseases and increased pressure for mass displacement into neighboring countries, he added.

Guterres said current conditions on the ground make it impossible for significant humanitarian operations to be carried out.

We are facing a severe risk of collapse of the humanitarian system, he warned. The situation is fast deteriorating into catastrophe with potentially irreversible implications for Palestinians as a whole and for peace and security in the region.

Guterres said such an outcome must be avoided at all costs.

Dramatic move

The U.N. chief wrote to the council under Article 99 of the U.N. Charter, which gives him one of his few powers  to bring to the powerful 15-nation councils attention any matter he believes may threaten international peace and security.

It is the first time he has invoked Article 99 in his nearly seven-year tenure.

It is a very dramatic, constitutional move by the secretary-general of the United Nations, his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told reporters. The actual invocation of Article [99] hasnt happened in decades.

Dujarric said he expects the Security Council will meet this week and for Guterres to brief them.

Israels U.N. ambassador called Guterres invoking of Article 99 a new moral low.

The secretary-general decided to activate this rare clause only when it allows him to put pressure on Israel, which is fighting the Nazi Hamas terrorists, Gilad Erdan said in a statement. This is more proof of the secretary-general's moral distortion and his bias against Israel.

Erdan also criticized Guterres renewed call for a humanitarian cease-fire, saying it is actually a call to keep Hamas' reign of terror in Gaza. He said Guterres is continually playing into Hamas' hands.

The Israeli envoy has previously called for Guterres to resign over comments he has made around the October 7 terror attacks on Israel, and he renewed that call on Wednesday.

The United Arab Emirates, which sits on the U.N. Security Council, said it submitted with the support of Arab and Muslim member states, a draft resolution to the Security Council referencing Guterres uses of Article 99 and demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire.

This is a moral and humanitarian imperative and we urge all countries to support the call of the Secretary-General, the UAE mission said on social media platform, X.

Hunger crisis will intensify, says WFP

The World Food Program warned Tuesday that the resumption of hostilities in Gaza will intensify the catastrophic hunger crisis that is already threatening civilians. More than 1.8 million Gazans have been displaced by the conflict.

The renewed fighting makes the distribution of aid almost impossible and endangers the lives of humanitarian workers, the WFP said. Above all, it is a disaster for the civilian population of Gaza, more than 2 million people, whose only lifeline is food assistance.

Israel vowed to destroy Hamas, which governs Gaza, after the groups fighters launched a massive terror attack inside Israel on October. 7, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israel.

Hamas, which has been designated a terrorist organization by the United States and others, also took about 240 people hostage. More than 100 of the hostages have since been released, most of them during a seven-day-long truce between Israel and Hamas that collapsed last week.

Israel's air and ground operations in Gaza have killed more than 16,000 Palestinians. About 70% are reported to be women and children, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health.
The United States is charging four Russian-affiliated soldiers with war crimes for what American prosecutors describe as the heinous abuse of a U.S. citizen following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February of last year.

The charges  the first ever filed by the U.S. under its nearly 30-year-old war crimes statute  include conspiracy to commit war crimes, unlawful confinement, torture, and inhumane treatment, following the takeover of the village of Mylove, in the Kherson oblast of southern Ukraine in April 2022.

"As the world has witnessed the horrors of Russia's brutal invasion of Ukraine, so has the United States Department of Justice," Attorney General Merrick Garland said Wednesday.

"The Justice Department and the American people have a long memory," he added. "We will not forget the atrocities in Ukraine, and we will never stop working to bring those responsible to justice."

According to the nine-page indictment, the perpetrators include Suren Seiranovich Mkrtchyan and Dmitry Budnik, described as commanding officers with either the Russian Armed Forces or the so-called Donetsk People's Republic.

Two other soldiers named in the indictment  Valerii and Nazar  are identified only by their first names.

Garland and other U.S. officials said Wednesday the victim was a non-combatant living with his Ukrainian wife in Mylove when the four Russians kidnapped him from his home.

They allegedly then stripped him naked, tied his hands behind his back, put a gun to his head, and beat him, before taking him to an improvised Russian military compound.

The indictment states the victim was then taken to an improvised jail where he was subject to multiple interrogations and "acts specifically intended to inflict severe and serious physical and mental pain and suffering."

Additionally, the indictment alleges at least one of the Russian soldiers sexually assaulted the victim, and that the Russians carried out a mock execution.

"They moved the gun just before pulling the trigger, and the bullet went just past his head," Garland said. "After the mock execution, the victim was beaten and interrogated again."

The victim was also forced to perform manual labor, such as digging trenches for Russian forces, until he was finally released after a little over a week in detention.

U.S. officials said the charges against the four Russian-affiliated soldiers stem from an investigation that started in August 2022, when investigators with the Department of Justice, the FBI and the Department of Homeland security traveled to meet with the victim after he had been evacuated from Ukraine.

They said evidence was also collected in collaboration with Ukrainian officials.

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said Wednesday investigators also met with members of the victim's family and with multiple witnesses who were able to confirm Russian forces occupied the village of Mylove and the surrounding areas during the time the alleged war crimes took place.

"We cannot allow such horrific crimes to be ignored. To do so would only increase the risk they will be repeated," Mayorkas said.

"As today's announcement makes clear, when an American citizen's human rights are violated, their government will spare no effort and spare no resources to bring the perpetrators to justice," he added.

VOA contacted the Russian Embassy in Washington for comment about the charges. Embassy officials have yet to respond.

Additionally, it is unclear whether any of the four Russian-affiliated troops will ever face trial.

That is a million-dollar question, said Susana SaCouta, director of the War Crimes Research Office at American Universitys Washington College of Law.

What the war crimes statute allows is, if they find themselves in this country [the United States], they can be arrested pursuant to these charges, SaCouta told VOA. But that's, of course, an extraordinary if. I don't foresee it happening.

Still, she said simply bringing the charges will likely send a message.

This is a significant signal, again, of support for accountability for anyone Russian nationals or otherwise  who commit war crimes in the context of conflict, particularly now in the context of Ukraine, SaCouta said.

U.S. officials, meanwhile, have indicated that while the war crimes charges announced on Wednesday are the first, they likely will not be the last.

"You should expect more," Garland told reporters. "I can't get into too many details."
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has ordered state-owned oil, gas and mining companies to immediately begin operations in a wide territory controlled by neighboring Guyana.

Maduro issued the order Tuesday, two days after Venezuleans voted overwhelmingly to approve a referendum that would annex the 160,000-square kilometer Essequibo region.

Maduro ordered state-owned oil giant PDVSA and mining conglomerate CVG to create local subsidiaries to operate in the region. He also says he will introduce a law in the National Assembly that will officially declare the region a Venezuelan state.

Venezuela has long-claimed the Essequibo region as part of its territory, despite an 1899 decision by an international arbitration panel that placed it within Guyanas borders. Caracas intensified its claim to the region after ExxonMobil discovered oil there in 2015.

Maduro said that all oil companies granted licenses by Guyana to operate in the Essequibo region have three months to leave.

Sundays referendum was held in defiance of the International Court of Justice, which ordered Venezuela not to take any action over the disputed territory until it could rule on the matter.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters, Agence France-Presse.


Beijing should be concerned about Hanois upgraded ties with Tokyo because the two countries share a common perspective on regional security matters, say experts.

Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced the Vietnam-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership on November 27 when Thuong visited Japan.

According to their joint statement provided by Japans Foreign Ministry, Kishida and Thuong agreed to expand their cooperation in areas including trade, climate change and economy to achieve a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi went to Hanoi on Saturday to meet with Vietnamese leaders, including Thuong and Communist Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong, to sell the idea of a community of common destiny with China. Chinese President Xi Xinping is expected to visit Hanoi later this month.

The upgrade in the nations relationship from what had been known as an intensive strategic partnership came after a similar move almost three months ago between Hanoi and Washington. The announcement makes Japan Hanois sixth top-tier partner, with Australia, Singapore and Indonesia expected to follow suit.

Kishida touted Vietnam as a key partner in achieving a free and open Indo-Pacific and rolled out new military aid known as official security assistance for the country. He offered the same aid to Malaysia and the Philippines early last month.

Addressing the Japanese parliament on November 29, Thuong said that diversifying ties with regional powers, including Japan, was of strategic importance to Hanoi. But he still stressed the Four Nos principle, which bans Vietnam from working with any country against a third one. He also reiterated Vietnams support for Tokyos bid to become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

Japan is Vietnams fourth largest trade partner, third biggest foreign investor and a top destination for Vietnamese labor, most of them technical interns. Last year, bilateral trade topped almost $50 billion.

The elevation of ties is an evolution of the intensive strategic partnership which has been in place between the two countries since 2014, according to Nguyen Quoc Cuong, a former Vietnamese ambassador to the United States and Japan, who is now with McLarty Associates.

The upgraded ties with Japan are part of Vietnams foreign policy strategy of linking at that level with all regional powers.

The focus of the new comprehensive strategic partnership is economic, not security, Cuong said, with Hanoi going from receiving Japanese aid to contributing to Japans growth.

Vietnam is well-positioned to become a stronghold of the Japan-led supply chain, Cuong told VOA Vietnamese over the phone from Hanoi last week. Its in Japans interest to build a strong, prosperous Vietnam.

Security matters

Because Beijings assertiveness is rattling many countries in the region, including Japan and Vietnam, the upgraded ties also have significant security dimensions, according to Alexander Vuving, a professor at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies in Honolulu.

Vietnam and Japan are engaged in territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea and East China Sea, respectively.

Vuving said that since Japan and Vietnam are among the nations most committed to pushing back against Chinese domination in the region, China is worried about Japan and Vietnam getting closer.

The upgrade has confirmed Vietnams support for Japans vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific and for Japans bid to become a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council, Vuving said in an email exchange with VOA Vietnamese last Wednesday. None of this bodes well for China.

Raymond Powell, a team leader at Stanford Universitys Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation, told VOA Vietnamese in an email last week that Beijing will certainly be concerned that Vietnams top-tier partners include the U.S. and several of its allies.

A more networked Vietnam is harder to isolate and coerce, which has been Chinas go-to tactic for controlling its neighbors, Powell said.

Both Washington and Tokyo support the Permanent Court of Arbitrations ruling in 2016 that rejected Beijings so-called nine-dash line that expanded its sovereignty claims to include most of the South China Sea.

Vuving said he expected the strengthened ties would pave the way for Japan to provide more robust security assistance to Vietnam such as radar, patrol boats and drones to enhance Vietnams capabilities in areas such as protecting its maritime claims.

A year ago, in a major shift from Japans postwar self-defense-only principle, Kishidas government adopted a new security strategy that involves a significant military buildup, including counterstrike capability. The strategy called China the biggest strategic challenge  before North Korea and Russia.

Japanese support for Vietnam can go very far to the upper limits that Japans laws allow, but the actual limits will be set primarily by Vietnam, which fears a backlash in its relations with China, Vuving told VOA Vietnamese.

Powell sees Japan as a strong economic and security partner that has been willing to help Hanoi improve its maritime security in order to hold off Chinas increasingly aggressive South China Sea maritime forces.

However, Powell said that given Vietnams Four Nos defense policy, "its highly unlikely" that Hanoi will be pulled into any agreement led by Washington and Tokyo that counters China.

Both the U.S. and Japan are constrained in what they can offer Vietnam during its disputes with Beijing, he added. The best they can likely hope for is statements of support for international law and calls for restraint.

Vuving cautioned that Hanois comprehensive strategic partnerships with Washington and Tokyo should not be framed as a concerted Western attempt to pull Hanoi away from Beijing. Instead, he said the agreements represent Hanois sovereign deliberation that "its tilt toward China and Russia no longer serves its interests well.

He predicted that eventually Hanoi will be drawn closer to Japan and the U.S., given that the two countries support Vietnam in the South China Sea and Hanoi is increasingly realizing that it will have a better future in the economic networks led by the U.S. and Japan.

Cuong, the retired ambassador, said peace was the purpose of the Vietnam-Japan comprehensive strategic partnership. Its definitely not aimed at a third party, he said.

Hanoi currently enjoys very good ties with Beijing, and it will by no means sacrifice those ties to get closer to Japan and the U.S., he said.

Cuong said that having ties at the highest level with all the key regional powers gives Vietnam more leeway in navigating competition between the U.S. and China while maintaining its independent posture.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press.
The United States on Tuesday announced new visa restrictions on "individuals involved in undermining peace, security or stability in the occupied West Bank," acting on U.S. President Joe Biden's criticism of attacks on Palestinians by extremist Israeli settlers in the volatile region.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that the Biden administration has "underscored to the Israeli government the need to do more to hold accountable extremist settlers who have committed violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank."

"As President Biden has repeatedly said, those attacks are unacceptable. Last week in Israel, I made clear that the United States is ready to take action using our own authorities."

8 Palestinians killed by settlers

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said Monday that since October 7, at least eight Palestinians in the West Bank have been killed by settlers. The U.N. agency said it has recorded 314 attacks by settlers that have resulted in Palestinian casualties, damage to Palestinian-owned property or both. One-third of the attacks included threats with firearms, including shootings, and in nearly half of the attacks, the settlers were accompanied or actively supported by Israeli forces.

Blinken added that the administration is pressuring both Israeli and Palestinian leadership to curb attacks by their respective extremists.

U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said this restriction could affect "dozens" of individuals and their families.

"The department is pursuing initial action against individuals pursuant to this visa restriction policy," he said.

Muslim Americans increasingly discontented

The move coincides with growing discontent from some vocal Muslim Americans, who last week unveiled a nationwide pressure campaign, #AbandonBiden, over what they see as the administration's failure to curb the actions of Israeli forces in their mission to eradicate the militant group Hamas.

On Tuesday, a participant in that campaign criticized Blinken for what he deemed as a "purposely vague" statement in that it did not more overtly condemn Israeli settlers.

The movement, which aims to withhold support for Biden's reelection campaign, shares criticisms with the prominent Council on American-Islamic Relations, which on Tuesday accused the Biden administration of "actively participating in Israel's ethnic cleansing and genocide of the Palestinian people."

Biden did not mention the visa policy in his public remarks on Tuesday, instead focusing on disturbing reports that Hamas militants brutally assaulted their female hostages after their stunning October 7 assault on Israeli civilians. That group, which the U.S. designates as a terror group, holds the destruction of Israel as central to its ideology.

"Ending violence against women and sexual assault has been one of the causes of my life," Biden said, speaking at a campaign event in Boston.

"But the world can't just look away at what's going on. It's on all of us  government, international organizations, civil society and businesses  to forcefully condemn the sexual violence of Hamas terrorists without equivocation. Without equivocation, without exception."

But as Biden and other top U.S. officials have repeatedly said, an end to this grinding conflict will require political will from both sides.

"Both Israel and the Palestinian Authority have the responsibility to uphold stability in the West Bank," Blinken said. "Instability in the West Bank both harms the Israeli and Palestinian people and threatens Israel's national security interests. Those responsible for it must be held accountable."

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press.
A man hiding in a pit during the Oct. 7 Hamas assault on an outdoor music festival in Israel said he heard someone nearby screaming she was being raped. Elsewhere in the area, a combat paramedic saw the body of a young woman with her legs open, her pants pulled down, and what looked like semen on her lower back. An army reservist who was tasked with identifying those killed by the militants said some of the women were found wearing only bloodied underwear.

Such accounts given to The Associated Press, along with first assessments by an Israeli rights group, show that sexual assault was part of an atrocities-filled rampage by Hamas and other Gaza militants who killed about 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and took more than 240 hostages that day.

While investigators are still trying to determine the scope of the sexual assaults, Israel's government is accusing the international community, particularly the United Nations, of ignoring the pain of Israeli victims.

"I say to the women's rights organizations, to the human rights organizations, you've heard of the rape of Israeli women, horrible atrocities  where the hell are you?" Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told a news conference Tuesday, switching to English to emphasize the point.

U.S. President Joe Biden called the reports "appalling" and urged the world to condemn "horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty."

Two months after the Hamas attacks on the music festival, farming communities and army posts in southern Israel, police are still struggling to put together the pieces.

In the immediate aftermath of the attacks, priority was given to identifying bodies, not to preserving evidence. Police say they're combing through 60,000 videos seized from the body cameras of Hamas attackers, from social media and from security cameras as well as 1,000 testimonies to bring the perpetrators to justice. It has been difficult finding rape survivors, with many victims killed by their attackers.

The group Physicians for Human Rights in Israel, which has a record of advocating for Palestinian civilians in Gaza suffering under Israel's longtime blockade of the territory, published an initial assessment in November.

"What we know for sure is that it was more than just one case and it was widespread, in that this happened in more than one location and more than a handful of times," Hadas Ziv, policy and ethics director for the organization, said Tuesday. "What we don't know and what the police are investigating is whether it was ordered to be done and whether it was systematic."

Hamas has rejected allegations that its gunmen committed sexual assault.

Screaming for help

Ron Freger fled the music festival when Hamas attacked and said he heard a woman screaming for help. "I was lying in a pit (and) I heard (a girl) yelling: 'They're raping me, they're raping me!'" he told the AP.

Several minutes later, he heard gunshots close by and she fell silent, he said.

"The feeling in that moment is one of complete powerlessness. I'm lying in this hole and I have no ability to do anything. I have no weapon, I have nothing, I'm surrounded by other people who are hiding with me and we're completely powerless," said the 23-year-old from the northern Israeli town of Netanya.

Last month, Israel's police chief presented to the international news media videotaped testimony of a rape witness at the music festival. Her face blurred, she said she watched militants gang-rape a woman.

"I couldn't understand what I saw," she said.

A combat medic told the AP that he came across half a dozen bodies of women and men with possible signs of sexual assault when he reached one of the attacked communities.

At the Shura military base where victims are being identified, Shari Mendes, a member of the army reserve unit that deals with the identification and religious burial preparation of female soldiers, said some of the women's bodies came in with little clothing, such as parts of their pajamas. Some only had bloodied underwear.

'Widespread' crimes

Based on open-source information and interviews, the Physicians for Human Rights in Israel report documents incidents at the music festival, homes around the Gaza Strip and an Israeli military base, all attacked by Hamas.

"It is becoming more apparent that the violence perpetrated against women, men and children also included widespread sexual and gender-based crimes," it says.

Before this war, Hamas, an Islamic militant group sworn to Israel's destruction, wasn't known to use rape as a weapon, said Colin P. Clarke, director of research at The Soufan Group, a global intelligence and security consulting firm. Its tactics included suicide bombings and shooting attacks on Israeli soldiers and civilians.

A country like Israel should have the means to do rigorous testing to confirm if people were sexually assaulted in a more systematic way, said Nidhi Kapur, a specialist on sexual abuse in situations of armed conflict.

"Forensic testing should have been a priority to build a full picture of the attack," said Kapur, who has worked in the region. "In a conflict you first take care of the survivors, you don't count bodies."

On Tuesday, Netanyahu and members of his war cabinet held a tense and emotional meeting with recently released hostages and family members of hostages still held in Gaza. Some of the recently released hostages shared testimonies of sexual abuse during their time in Gaza, participants said.

Separately, a doctor who treated some of the 110 released hostages told the AP that at least 10 men and women among those freed were sexually assaulted or abused but did not provide further details. He spoke on condition of anonymity to protect the hostages' identities.

According to the Israeli military, 138 hostages, including 15 women, are still held by Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza. Lt. Col. Richard Hecht, a military spokesman, said the army is "absolutely" concerned about sexual violence against female hostages.

Failure to support women

On Monday, Israel hosted a special event at the United Nations, where former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and top technology executive Sheryl Sandberg were among those who criticized what they called a global failure to support women who were sexually assaulted and in some cases killed.

But some groups say Israel isn't making it easy to investigate.

The Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights said it requested access to Israel and the Palestinian territories to allow it to collect information from the events that took place on Oct. 7 and 8, and since then, but Israel has not responded to its requests, said Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the U.N. Human Rights Office.

Israel says the office has preexisting biases against Israel and it will not cooperate with it. Israeli officials said they would consider all options for independent international mechanisms to investigate.

Rights experts say the United Nations is best placed to conduct a fair, credible and impartial investigation.

"These accounts are horrifying and deserve an urgent, thorough, and credible investigation," said Heather Barr, associate director for the women's rights division at Human Rights Watch.
On Sunday, amid deserted polling stations and the electorates indifference, Venezuelas Chavista government declared victory in its referendum on the countrys dispute with Guyana over the Essequibo region. President Nicolas Maduro asserted that the country is beginning a new phase. We are going to recover and do justice with strength from everyone, the president said on Monday as he received the results from the president of the National Electoral Council (CNE), Elvis Amoroso. The results of the referendum had changed by a few thousand votes compared to the ones announced on Sunday night. Maduro has said that the referendum is binding, although it was not called as such; it remains to be seen how he will move toward fulfilling the referendums proposal.

Beyond the numbers, the Venezuelan government seeks popular support for disregarding the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where Guyana is defending its claim to the region. But in a decision prior to the referendum, Venezuelas Supreme Court had already ruled that it would not abide by international decisions or rulings about its territory. It is not clear whether Venezuela would completely abandon defending its case at the ICJ, which would further isolate the country, or whether it will continue to attend the hearings and present its counterargument in April 2024 in a legal case that is still far from being resolved.

Following the results of the referendum, the main question is how it will enforce the statements in the fifth question, which has raised the most concern in the country. In a ruling on Friday, the ICJ warned Venezuela not to do anything that would modify the status of the territory, which is de facto administered by Guyana, while the border dispute is being decided. On Sunday, Venezuelans voted to approve the governments creation of the state of Guayana Esequiba and the execution of an accelerated plan for integral attention to the current and future population of that territory, including, among other things, granting Venezuelan citizenship and identity cards. In some quarters, this move has been interpreted as a threat to annex a territory where around 125,000 mostly English-speaking people with Guyanese citizenship live. We do not know if Venezuela is going to limit itself to symbolic gestures with the creation of the Essequibo territory and appointing symbolic authorities, which Guyana might see as an aggression, or if they intend to use some mechanism by force, says lawyer Ali Daniels.

Such a pretense could lead Guyana to bring the conflict to the U.N. Security Council and even pave the way for a new lawsuit against Venezuela at the International Criminal Court, where it is already being investigated for crimes against humanity, Daniels warns. A conflict situation does not require warlike activity. It could be the mobilization of ships, an expression of territorial control of waters, which could be considered an [act of] aggression and spark an escalation that no one wants. Guyana has granted oil concessions in the coastal waters of the disputed territory. In 2018, the Venezuelan Navy intercepted an ExxonMobil vessel sailing in the disputed waters, which increased diplomatic tensions at the time.

Internationally, Venezuela has a very short leash with Guyana. The latter not only has the support of the United States and the United Kingdom, but also from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Cuba and China; while the latter are Venezuelas allies in other areas, they have historically supported Guyana in this territorial conflict.

Election workers wait for voters at a polling station during the referendum on the Essequibo region, on December 3, 2023, in Caracas, Venezuela. MIGUEL GUTIERREZ (EFE)

The Chavista government is waging a new battle that has less to do with sovereignty and international geopolitics than it does with its domestic position ahead of Venezuelas presidential elections a year from now. According to pollsters like Delphos, Maduro has not been able to improve on his floor of 15% popular support, prolonging his administrations worst moment. The elections should be held in the second semester of 2024, according to the Barbados agreements, where the international community is pressuring Maduro to comply with minimum democratic guarantees. The elections now represent the greatest threat to his governments stability and ability to remain in power. Therefore, as several analysts have argued, a conflict would serve as a pretext for the Venezuelan government to declare a state of emergency and postpone the elections. This is more a matter of domestic politics than [international] politics, because in six months there will not be a decision from the International Court of Justice on the Essequibo issue, but there will be elections [in Venezuela]. In view of the referendums failure, they can use it for purposes other than a defense of sovereignty, Daniels adds.

This referendum has also tested the new CNE authorities, which were changed in an untimely fashion in August, sacrificing the bodys most diverse configuration in a long time, achieved as a result of the Barbados negotiations. In an initial report on Sunday night, these authorities spoke of an overwhelming victory with 10.5 million votes that would increase because they said that Venezuelans were still voting after 10 p.m. Hours later, in statements made by Amoroso, the same authorities clarified that 10,431,907 Venezuelans voted, a difference that has fueled the oppositions distrust of the credibility of the institution that is now responsible for organizing the 2024 presidential elections. That discrepancy also flies in the face of the ruling partys history: it has never obtained more than 10 million votes. In this case, the referendum did not produce the anticipated snapshot of lines of people at the polling stations to contrast with last months opposition primary elections, in which the mobilization of 2.4 million people surprised the organizers themselves and upset the ruling party.

In 2018, Maduro was reelected with 6 million votes in an early election in which the main opposition candidates were disqualified. The international community did not recognize these elections, the cause of the long institutional conflict that Venezuela has been experiencing in recent years. The disaggregated votes of the referendum on the Essequibo region have not been disclosed. Similarly, the vote tally was not released in the 2017 National Constituent Assembly elections that created a parliament parallel to the one the opposition had conquered; the ruling party essentially participated alone in that process.

The lack of data on the abstention rate also raises questions. On the night of the results, opposition leader and former presidential candidate Henrique Capriles Radonski also questioned the figure that Amoroso gave and said that 2.1 million voters had participated. He did not dare to say that () it was 5 votes per voter, he wrote. That would be how the first 10.5 million votes reported by Venezuelas electoral authorities could make sense.

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Norman Lear. Photo: NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images

Television pioneer Norman Lear died at his home in Los Angeles at the age of 101. Lara Bergthold, a spokesperson for the family, confirmed to the New York Times on December 6. Lear created and developed many iconic television sitcoms such as All in the Family, Maude, Sanford and Son, One Day at a Time, The Jeffersons, and Good Times. His work on All in the Family won him four Emmy awards and is one of four television shows where all the lead actors have won Emmys for their performances. Lear created The Lear Family Foundation in 1997, dedicated to supporting various nonprofits around the country that focus on civil liberties, education, and the environment. He received the Carol Burnett Award for his work in television and advocacy, in addition to the National Medal of Arts, and was a Kennedy Center honoree.

Born in 1922 in New Haven, Connecticut, his Jewish upbringing would influence his storytelling, addressing controversial issues such as antisemitism, racism, and abortion on network television. He joined the United States Air Force during World War II at the age of 20, which influences many of his onscreen performers: Archie Bunker in All in the Family and Penelope Alvarez in One Day at a Time. Lears progressive ideology about the American family paved the way for groundbreaking television. Good Times, developed by Lear, became Americas first television show depicting a two-parent Black household in 1974. The Jeffersons, also developed by Lear, became one of the longest-running sitcoms in history and the second-longest-running sitcom with a predominately Black cast.

Almost two decades after his last television project, he co-created the revival of One Day at a Time in 2017 alongside Gloria Calderon-Kellett, centering around three generations of a Cuban-American family living in Los Angeles. The Emmy-winning series starred Rita Moreno, Justina Machado, Todd Grinnell, Isabella Gomez, Marcel Ruiz, and Stephen Tobolowsky. In addition to ODAAT, Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman, Facts of Life, All in the Family, and The Jeffersons have all been rebooted in various stages, from star-studded live broadcasts to development announcements for future projects.
Photo: Jill Connelly/Bloomberg/Getty Images

Merry Christmas! The negotiations, strikes, and delays are officially over. SAG-AFTRA members have finally approved their contract with the AMPTP with an approval vote of 78.33% to 21.67%. The vote had a turnout of 38.15% of its members, more of a turnout than previous years the 2020 vote had a 27.15% turnout, and in 2017 had 15% turnout. The contract will be active for the next three years until it expires on June 30, 2026. In a statement sent to Vulture, the AMPTP shared that they congratulate SAG-AFTRA on the ratification of its new contract, which represents historic gains and protections for performers. With this vote, the industry and the jobs it supports will be able to return in full force. SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher called the decision a golden age for the union despite some members being disappointed by the lack of A.I. protections in the final contract. The union leaders promised more education materials to explain finer points made in the final, approved contract. Hollywood is finally back, here we go mama!
Shue (look familiar?) and Fiebig. Photo-Illustration: Vulture; Photos: Jason Mendez/Getty Images, Leigh Vogel/FilmMagic

One year ago today, ABC removed T.J. Holmes and Amy Robach from the anchor desk of GMA3, silencing two TV hosts in love who just happened to be married to different people. Robach and Holmes opened up about their relationship today for the first time on their new podcast, Amy & T.J. But somehow, thats not close to the wildest news in their saga this December 5. The couples exes  that is, Melrose Place star Andrew Shue and attorney Marilee Fiebig  now seem to be dating as well. Page Six first reported the news, with People confirming. A source told Page Six the pair had bonded after their spouses alleged affair, but it turned into something else, and theyre connected over their values. In other words, they pulled a Shania Twain.

Shue and Fiebig knew each other for years through their exes work. Robach previously told People that the four had gone on tons of double dates and that her children would babysit Holmes and Fiebigs. According to Page Six, the exes have been dating for about six months. Funny enough, just over six months ago, Fiebig helped a friend launch the company Axis Hats New York, which includes Shue on the board.

Maybe this news comes as payback for Holmes and Robach denying on their podcast that they had ever cheated. Both hosts claimed they had been working through their divorces for months and were no longer living with their spouses by the time they were pictured together in fall 2022. Still, the Page Six source was sure to use the A-word in their quote, saying Shue and Fiebigs relationship is bigger than the affair now. (Neither has ever explicitly called their ex a cheater, but Fiebig did previously criticize Holmess lack of discretion, respect, and sensitivity during their split.) Even more pointedly, the source added, Theyre not heartbroken and sad. Everyone has moved on. Except for those of us who just got a whole lot more excited about Holmes and Robachs next episode.
The first time I felt myself fall in love with you was on my phone.

Thats what Darby tells Bill one day after hes spent the last couple of minutes ranting about how cell phones are killing us. Theyre not just phones anymore, he says, theyre mini-computers, and were so endlessly glued to them that were losing ourselves. He even likens screens to cigarettes.

For many detractors of A Murder at the End of the World, this type of dialogue about technology might feel simplistic, ham-fisted, and even cringey  especially if youre the type of person who views Black Mirror as what if phones, but too much? Ill admit that I roll my eyes sometimes watching this show, especially during that early scene of Martin showing off his Ernest HemingwaywritingHarry Potter party trick. I agree with most of what Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij have to say about climate change, capitalism, and the dangers of AI, but its not like those subjects are typically discussed with any real subtlety.

That flashback out in the desert shouldnt be any different; in fact, a conversation about cell phones is probably more likely to provoke eye rolls than a conversation about AI because at least the latter is particularly relevant right now. And yet my eyeballs remained firmly in place during this scene. I didnt see two empty mouthpieces regurgitating boomer complaints; I saw two characters I really cared about, talking at first obliquely and then explicitly about their own love story. Heres a guy who recognizes that his girlfriends heart is torn in two: She cares about him, but she might care even more about the case theyve spent their whole relationship working on. When Bill sees Darby glancing at her phone over and over, it scares him  not because shes so easily distracted by her phone, but because she wont open herself up to him the way hes opening himself up to her. She wont slow down.

But then Darby says that line: The first time I felt myself fall in love with you was on my phone. Its a satisfying payoff to Bills unanswered question, a poignant moment that the episode doesnt overplay. But it works on a thematic level, too, complicating Bills all-negative view of tech while also clarifying the shows view. Technology is neither inherently good nor inherently evil; what matters is how we use it. As Joe MacMillan once said in Halt and Catch Fire, this centurys best drama about tech and the internet, Computers arent the thing. Theyre the thing that gets you to the thing. We might spend so much of our lives online, but broadly speaking, we do it for a reason: because it allows us to find connection. Sometimes real love stories are born on the internet.

Chapter 5: Crypt is the type of episode I always hoped this show was capable of, partly because it seamlessly weds its principal thematic concerns to good character work. Darby and Bill really came into focus for me as people here in a way they havent since the first episode; in past and present, were locked into Darbys perspective, going through two very different emotional experiences while two very different investigations play out. In both, shes closing in on an answer  but while the end of one search seemingly promises joy, catharsis, and connection, the other keeps breeding more fear, panic, and distrust.

Theres a full-circle feeling now that were seeing the final events that took place before Darby and Bills showdown with the serial killer. Darby wakes Bill up one night, drunk and high on Adderall, to share the final pieces: E. Bell, the original owner of the ring they found in the last episodes flashback, passed it down to her son, who eventually gave it to his son, a cop who gave it to his wife, Patricia. Patricia mysteriously disappeared, her husband retired early, and now Darby has the last known address of an all-but-confirmed serial killer.

Its a huge breakthrough, but its hard for Bill (or us) to feel triumphant when he can see how much of a toll this has taken on Darby, whose monomaniacal focus on the case has kept her from sleeping or eating. Bill has always admired her ability to see beyond the statistics and envision a rich inner life for each victim, but now shes losing sight of the goal; after all, she cant bring any of those victims back, and their killer might even like the attention. When Bill brings up his concerns, though, Darby defensively lashes out, leading to a fight Ive been expecting for a few episodes now. Its not over between them yet  a brief fire leaves them shaken but united  but were seeing the factors that will directly lead to Bill leaving Darby.

Darbys internal conflict is front and center in the present, too. Its harrowing to see her desperately crushing up Adderall again to focus, especially now that weve seen how her manic sleuthing obsession put her in danger in the past. But Chapter 5 also manages to shade in the supporting cast more than any episode before, finally letting this show be the ensemble murder mystery it has only fleetingly resembled so far.

Maybe the smartest move in Brit Marlings script is the decision to let the tension between Darby and Andy Ronson thaw for a bit. Their team-up is a nice change of pace, starting with the revelation that Ronson is sterile and always knew Zoomer was Bills son. Ronson was apparently receiving a late-night life-extension therapy session in the medical bay during Bills murder. While its still possible theres some funny business going on here and Ronson is deceiving Darby with the help of tech (like Ray?), Im inclined to believe him this time. Hes always felt like too obvious of a choice to be the killer, and it makes sense that hed suspect someone is trying to set him up.

Darby and Ronson conduct a few interviews with other guests, including David and Oliver, who slept together twice on the night of Bills murder. Some clues point to David as a top suspect: He was hanging out weirdly in the halls that night, he got an unexplained call from Bill, he wont answer any questions, and hes played by Raul Esparza. Im still not convinced that any of the guests are responsible for whats been happening, though. We havent spent enough time with David for him to be a satisfying answer to this big mystery; the same holds true for Lu Mei, Oliver, Ziba, and Martin, even after this episode.

Still, its fun to watch Darby just do some old-fashioned detective work, especially with her (admittedly short-lived) new partnership. When she visits Lee to ask about the brief break in her poker-game alibi, she accidentally reveals the truth of Zoomers parentage, something even Lee didnt know. But then theres something else to worry about: Lee has squirreled away a wig and new passport in a bag, suggesting she could be the one intent on taking her husband down. (Sians later speculation leaves the possibility open.) And then Darby gets attacked in her own room by someone in leather gloves, warning her not to get someone else killed.

At an hour and 15 minutes, this is the longest installment of the series, and perhaps it does bite off more than it can chew; the show hasnt expressed much interest in its supporting characters until now, and with only two episodes left after this one, a few cursory interview scenes might be too little, too late. Still, I appreciate that this episode pushes the plot forward while allowing plenty of space to explore the psychological effects of this whole debacle.

The courtyard bonfire scene is important in that way: Its a rare moment when we get to spend time with the guests, unencumbered by Ronsons oppressive presence and Lees shady politeness. In the aftermath of Sians death, the mood is grim, and theres not much trust to go around, but theres room for solidarity. When Darby describes the ten-story bunker where the Ronsons hide out, everyone trades dark jokes about the nefariousness of this place: Perhaps this whole retreat is just an audition to live at the apocalypse timeshare for millionaires, a place created for the ultrarich to ride out the climate crisis they created.

The tone turns back to somber when Darby admits how sad she feels, but she gets some unlikely warmth and comfort from Ziba, who comforts her by stressing the necessity of taking time to mourn when someone passes. They carry out a small ceremony, naming each of the three dead while the northern lights dance overhead, but saying Bills name feels impossible. If I say his name, he wont come back, Darby says.

Chapter 5 is a significant episode for this story, turning up the pressure everywhere and finally addressing all the potential suspects. Everything feels urgent now, and the attacks are getting closer together: Theres no way Darby doesnt make it out of that attempted pool drowning alive, but that doesnt make the final scene any less intense.

But plot progression aside, this is also the shows strongest ensemble episode. This is the first time in the show where the present-day storyline kept me engaged as much as the flashbacks, where the guests seemed more like a bizarre but believable friend group than a collection of indistinct strangers. Even if some characters still remain very undeveloped (hello, Martin), and even if there are still only a few who really feel like viable suspects, this cast is starting to feel like a well-oiled machine. Im starting to wish there were more than seven episodes.

Zeroes and Ones

 Nice moment when the 3-D security scan shows the image of Darby visiting an overdosing Bill, leaving her shaken as she tries to press forward with her brainstorming.

 Lu Meis firewall hack doesnt raise my suspicions much, but I have to say, all the talk of tech that can anticipate criminal behavior is troubling.

 Emma Corrin and Harris Dickinson do typically great work here, but Ill shout out Clive Owens simultaneously funny and terrifying performance in the scene when Ronson learns of a leak and explodes in frustration  before accepting the phone from Marius and answering calmly.

 The show doesnt elaborate much on Bills history with drugs and alcohol, despite the way he died and the way he helped Rohan get sober, but it mustve been a factor in his discomfort with Darbys constant drinking and using, right?

 Maybe I feel like Id have to die for you to love me is a cheesy line considering what we know about Bill, but it still worked for me, especially because of the way the scene is edited, with a quick cut back to present-day Darby gasping at the visceral memory.

 In a particularly vulnerable moment, Darby opens up to Ray, who explains that people have been venting to AI for over 50 years.

 Fuck off, Marius.
Photo: Vulture

This list was originally published on February 2, 2019.

Theres a cinematic tradition of snowbound thrillers that make the weather a crucial part of the action  an obstacle, a character-builder, and a source of tension and visceral agony. The cold-weather films were focusing on here are all about isolation, and many are about the madness that follows, as days of either being stuck outside in the snow or penned inside by it lead to hysteria, desperation, and powder-reddening spasms of violence. Theyre also a great excuse to bundle up on the couch, sip from a bottomless mug of coffee, and take pleasure in the frostbitten misery of others.

20. Cold Prey (2006)

For Americans, it can be reassuring to learn that other countries, despite their advantages in health care and education, are still full of stupid, horny young people who ritualistically strike out to a remote location and allow some lunatic to hack them to death, one by one. Its no surprise that the director of the Finnish slasher Cold Prey, enviably named Roar Uthaug, would emerge in Hollywood over a decade later with his Tomb Raider reboot, given his handle on genre formula and facility with the great outdoors. Theres not an unexpected note in this horror-thriller about attractive snowboarders who hole up in an abandoned ski lodge hiding a mysterious and stabby host, but Uthaug effectively contrasts the mountain exteriors and the muted interiors, which have the sickly pallor of the newly dead.

19. Wind River (2017)

In many respects, Wind River is a standard procedural, a follow-the-bread-crumbs thriller about an FBI agent (Elizabeth Olsen) investigating a rape and murder with guidance from a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service agent (Jeremy Renner) who has a better feel for the territory and its customs. Yet Taylor Sheridan sets the film on a Wyoming Indian reservation in the middle of winter, and does everything possible to emphasize its brutality: The official cause of death is a pulmonary hemorrhage caused by breathing the subzero air, and conditions are so terrible that its a challenge just to get to the scene of the crime without perishing, too. The weather is one obstacle among many, but Sheridan frames it as a symbol of a Native American culture thats intensely insular and unseen.

18. Dead of Winter (1987)

The legendary Arthur Penn (Bonnie and Clyde) took over Dead of Winter as a gun-for-hire after the original director bailed, but that gun still had a little ammunition. With a debt to Vertigo, the film casts Mary Steenburgen in a triple role  as a desperate New York actress who takes a mystery gig in a snowy manse upstate, as the missing actress shes replacing, and as the sister of the producer/doctor (Jan Rubes) who seems to be hiding a few dark secrets. Penn makes upstate seem like another planet, a snow-caked hinterland of eccentricity  a gas-station attendant gives out goldfish at the pump  and Roddy McDowall is particularly good as the grinning, Igor-like production assistant who lures Steenburgen into a nightmare.

17. In Order of Disappearance (2014)

Theres not much qualitative difference between Cold Pursuit and its Norwegian source, In Order of Disappearance, perhaps because director Hans Petter Moland did not want to rebel against the director of the original film, Hans Petter Moland. Even the jokey name of the hero  Nils Dickman here, Nels Coxman in the remake  isnt much of a tweak. But this one makes the list for being first and for casting Bruno Ganz as the leader of a Serbian mob thats squaring off against a humble snowplow driver (Stellan Skarsgard) hell-bent on avenging his sons murder. Both films are silly to a fault, but Molands efforts to take the stuffing out of the revenge-thriller genre are a long-needed corrective to one-man wrecking crews like Charles Bronson and, well, Liam Neeson.

16. The Grey (2011)

Of all the entries in the Neeson action cycle, Joe Carnahans The Grey stands out for attempting to extract their masculine essence, casting him in a survivalist action movie that pits Neeson against a pack of wolves, Neeson against the Alaskan elements, and Neeson against some of the half-dozen other men who question his leadership. Carnahan does nothing halfway: Before his transport plane even crashes, Neesons grizzled oilman is contemplating suicide, which makes the events that follow seem both reckless and restorative, because he acts without fear of death. With nature as the primary foe, The Grey puts its hero through an elementary struggle that goes a long way toward justifying its testosterone kick and lupine hysteria.

15. Transsiberian (2008)

Inspired by writer-director Brad Andersons own adventures on the Trans-Siberian railway, a famed stretch of track that extends from Beijing to Moscow, Transsiberian is one of the better post-9/11 movies to play on American fears of a hostile reception overseas. As beautiful as the sightseeing can get on this journey, theres really no point where riders would want to take an unscheduled stop, lest they be interrogated by a Russian narcotics officer in the desolate chill of a foreign land. Thats the dilemma facing an American couple (Woody Harrelson and Emily Mortimer) as they hop on the train in Beijing, become bunkmates with a sexy-but-dubious pair (Eduardo Noriega and Kate Mara), and get embroiled in a drug-related homicide case that jettisons them into the barren tundra of Siberia.

14. Pontypool (2008)

In Bruce McDonalds ingenious twist in the zombie thriller, a radio station in a small Ontario town becomes an island within an island, the center of a desolate snowscape where citizens are suddenly reduced to dead-eyed, babbling monsters. The twist is that the broadcast may be the culprit: The DJ (Stephen McHattie), a former big-city provocateur whos taken his act to the sticks, makes the situation worse by talking, suggesting that language itself may be to blame for creating and spreading the virus. Theres a big fat metaphor here about the toxicity of talk radio  or any language that trivializes or distorts our understanding of the world  but Pontypool also functions well as a straight-up monster movie, enhanced by the blinding snow and howling wind that keep everyone penned in.

13. The Edge (1997)

Much like The Grey, The Edge is a man-versus-wild thriller set in the Alaskan wilderness thats all about the forces of nature drawing out masculinity in its purest form. One difference is that The Edge was written by David Mamet, whose career-long obsession with manliness is normally confined to the sales floors and academic halls that work to suppress it. The other difference is that Anthony Hopkinss billionaire, a man protected by wealth and privilege, is thrown into a situation where hes facing off against a romantic rival (Alec Baldwin) and a motherfucking bear, and accesses brute instincts that blue bloods like him never have reason to summon. Its maul or be mauled.

12. The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo (2011)

Based on Stieg Larssons best seller, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo takes place largely on the Swedish island of Hedestad, which the film presents as a bridge away from the rest of humanity, a place where a wealthy family of scoundrels can hide its secrets from the public  and from each other. The book was adapted first in its native country, but David Finchers version is better in every respect, particularly at suggesting the icy menace of a locale thats long existed outside the sort of scrutiny brought to bear by a journalist (Daniel Craig) and the brilliant, damaged hacker (Rooney Mara) who helps him investigate a long-ago disappearance. In some respects, the material is boilerplate Fincher, a return to the serial-murder terrain of Seven, but hes finally found a clime as frosty as his directorial touch.

11. The Last Winter (2006)

Theres perilously little separating Larry Fessendens environmental horror from the actual environmental horror playing out in the Arctic and Antarctic right now. The Last Winter is about a crew from an American oil company seeking reserves in an Arctic wildlife refuge, but in the process of testing the site, they unleash hallucinatory gases that have been under wraps for thousands of years. Set mostly in a base camp where tensions flare between a gung-ho company man (Ron Perlman) and a skeptical environmentalist (James Le Gros), the film is like The Thing without monsters, where weird storms and shifts in the wind portend a catastrophic change that engulfs the entire team. As they go, Fessenden implies, so goes the world.

10. Ravenous (1999)

Antonia Birds cult favorite offers a grim scenario: High in the Sierra Nevada mountains in the mid-1800s, a bedraggled stranger (Robert Carlyle) tells a patrol of U.S. Army misfits about his outfit getting trapped in the snow for weeks and eventually resorting to cannibalism to keep from starvation. When they strike out to investigate, the men are confronted by the Wendigo myth, which holds that the taste of human flesh creates an insatiable desire for more of it. Yet Ravenous takes this idea in a defiantly odd direction, creating black comedy out of cannibalistic derangement and the redemptive arc of a coward (Guy Pearce) trying to stop it. The eccentric score, by Michael Nyman and Blurs Damon Albarn, sets the tone for a no-holds-barred gore-fest that nonetheless has its tongue firmly planted in cheek.

9. Insomnia (2002)

Both the 1997 and the 2002 versions of this daylight noir are superbly executed  and, as with In Order of Disappearance and Cold Pursuit, the Scandinavian original stars Stellan Skarsgard  but director Christopher Nolan gets the slight edge for seizing on the guilt that haunts a disgraced detective (Al Pacino) who investigates a serial killer in the Arctic Circle. The permanent daylight of summer in the Arctic contributes to his deteriorating psyche as he enters a cat-and-mouse game with a diabolical stranger (Robin Williams), but it also provides a metaphor for his guilty conscience, which cannot be tucked away in darkness. Nolans sense of the locale is eerily beautiful, emphasizing the snow-capped mountains and permafrost of the extreme north and the fog that periodically stands in for the sunset.

8. Misery (1990)

Back in 1990, Rob Reiners adaptation of Stephen Kings book about a novelist tormented by his No. 1 fan was a clever commentary on Kings ambivalence about his own popularity and an even better showcase for a little-known Kathy Bates as a deranged loner who saves her favorite author (James Caan) from a car accident and nurses him back to health, with ulterior motives. But now, when fans of franchises like Star Wars and Ghostbusters can wage harassment campaigns in response to tweaks in the storytelling, Misery seems like an even sharper critique of those who appoint themselves guardians of the material. Reiner keeps the staging simple  this could be a play, with very few changes necessary  but the isolation of the wintry setting, post-blizzard, intensifies the stir-crazy madness that grips both captive and captor.

7. Black Christmas (1974)

In a sorority house on Christmas Eve, a serial killer is stalking and murdering young women, first through heavy-breathing phone calls and then with various implements of death. And the calls are coming from  well, if youve seen a horror film, then you know theyre in extremely close proximity. Black Christmas may sound like a standard slasher movie, but there was nothing standard about it in 1974, before many of its techniques, like the first-person-killer cam that was popularized in Halloween and the 80s knockoffs that followed. What makes the film great, then and now, is the scabrous wit that accompanies the mayhem, much of it coming from the late Margot Kidder as a queen-bee type who openly mocks the madman on the other end of the line.

6. Snowpiercer (2013)

In Bong Joon-hos social allegory, the planet has been rendered uninhabitable by a global climate disaster, leaving the last vestiges of humanity to cut through the endless tundra for eternity. But if anything, the old rules of society apply more rigorously than ever, with each train car enforcing a class system that keeps the grimy have-nots toward the back, as the elite enjoy the benefits of luxury travel and education for their children. With Tilda Swinton cast as a deranged authoritarian, like Margaret Thatcher left under a heat lamp, Snowpiercer is a gonzo modern-day Ship of Fools, reflecting an interconnected world where were all trapped in the same space together, heading full speed to oblivion as the natural world coldly rejects our presence.

5. A Simple Plan (1998)

After the Coen brothers redefined modern noir as Minnesota blanc in Fargo, their friend and occasional collaborator, Sam Raimi, followed suit with A Simple Plan, which uses the cold to practical and moral effect, as three men try to abscond with ill-gotten money, but cant hide the tracks that accumulate at the scene and in their consciences. Adapting his own relentless page-turner of a novel, Scott B. Smith emphasizes the class differences between a small-business owner (Bill Paxton) and his dim-witted brother (Billy Bob Thornton) and friend (Brent Briscoe), who find over $4 million in cash in a downed airplane. As their agreement to keep the money collapses immediately and catastrophically, Raimi amplifies the pulpy tension, but the film has a deep emotional undercurrent, too, in the wounded relationship between siblings who have grown apart.

4. The Hateful Eight (2015)

A pastiche of a pastiche by his generations most gifted pastiche artist, Quentin Tarantinos neo-Western recalls the single-setting tension of his debut film Reservoir Dogs and the era-specific racial politics of Django Unchained, on top of a conceit that owes a heavy debt both to John Carpenters The Thing and Agatha Christies Ten Little Indians. Yet Tarantino turns The Hateful Eight into an epic-length whodunit that gets the most out of salty character actors  from old faves like Samuel L. Jackson and Tim Roth to new-to-him legends like Kurt Russell and Jennifer Jason Leigh  by piling them into a blizzard-encased Wyoming cabin and letting the accusations (and bullets) fly. The film is a pleasure mostly as a showcase for Tarantinos adeptness as a storyteller; when eight outlaws are snowed into the same space together, spinning yarns is the only way to pass the time.

3. The Shining (1980)

In the immense isolation of the Overlook Hotel, where caretaker Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson) holes up for the winters with his wife (Shelley Duvall) and young son (Danny Lloyd), the grim history of the place, combined with Jacks own history of anger and abuse, create a kind of hallucinatory pulse, with horrors seeping in from every direction. Its taken years for critics to come to terms with Stanley Kubricks The Shining  the author of the book, Stephen King, is still not onboard  because the film doesnt operate like a conventional horror movie in any respect. Its mysteries are varied and deep, and its overall effect is to leave the audience feeling completely discombobulated, to where the very basic facts of time and space are thrown into confusion. With the audience scrambling to get its bearings, Kubrick goes on the attack.

2. The Thing (1982)

Opening with the startling image of Norwegians shooting at a sled dog from a helicopter in the Antarctic, John Carpenters The Thing is a fat-free thriller that resembles Alien in the South Pole, with the dog carrying an inhuman force thats primed to decimate an entire crew full of unarmed laborers. Kurt Russell is the Ridley of the bunch, gamely fighting a creature that spreads through a research station like a virus, hiding in its human hosts until it springs forward like a jack-in-a-box. Carpenters love for old-fashioned Westerns and science-fiction is evident in the uneasy mix of camaraderie and suspicion that grips the station, and the creature effects, by Rob Bottin, were a high watermark for practical effects, mushrooming into beautiful, grotesque creations. Its use of snow and extreme weather to heighten the tension and psychological duress are a direct influence on many thrillers that followed, including two films (The Hateful Eight and The Last Winter) on this list.

1. Fargo (1995)

The snow in the Coen brothers white noir is multifaceted: It can represent the aggravation of living in the bleak flats of Minnesota, which prompts a put-upon car dealer (William H. Macy) to plot a terrible scheme; the domestic bliss that blankets a small-town police chief (Frances McDormand) as she investigates the fallout; and the contrast between the pure white snow and the red blood that spatters it. Fargo is a perfect thriller, balanced between two characters who spout the same colorful midwestern-isms, but occupy completely different moral planes. The Coens specificity of language and place make Minnesota seem like both an utterly familiar slice of Middle America and a foreign nation with its own quirky rituals and tics. Depending on who you are, its either home sweet home or a hell of your own making.
Photo-Illustration: Franziska Barczyk

The beauty of memoir is its resistance to confinement: We contain multitudes, so our methods of introspection must, too. This years best memoirs perfectly showcase such variety. Some are sparse, slippery  whole lives pieced together through fragmented memories, letters to loved ones, recipes, mythology, scripture. Some tease the boundary between truth and fiction. Others elevate straightforward narratives by incorporating political theory, philosophy, and history. The authors of each understand that ones life  and more significantly, ones self  cant be contained in facts. After all, the facts as we remember them arent really facts. Its their openness and experimentation that allow, at once, intimacy and universality, provoking some of our biggest questions: How does a person become who they are? What makes up an identity? What are the stories we tell ourselves, and why do they matter? These books might not spell out the answers for you, but theyll certainly push you toward them.

10.

NYC-based organizer Lamya H (a pseudonym) has described her memoir as unapologetically queer and unapologetically Muslim. What this looks like is a book that isnt so much grappling with or reconciling two conflicting identities, but rather lovingly examining the ways each has supported and strengthened the other. Lamya provides close, queer readings of the Quran, drawing connections between its stories and her own experiences of persecution as a brown girl growing up in an (unnamed) Arab country with strict colorist hierarchies. Beginning with her study of the prophet Maryam  whose virgin pregnancy and general rejection of men brings a confused 14-year-old Lamya real relief during Quran class  Lamya draws on various religious figures to track her political, spiritual, and sexual coming of age, jumping back and forth in time as she grows from a struggling child into a vital artist and activist.

9.

On May 25, 2020, birder Christian Cooper was walking the Central Park Ramble when he asked a white woman on the same path to leash her dog. She refused, he started recording, and after both he and his sister posted the video on social media, the whole world saw her call 911 and falsely claim that an African American man was threatening both her and her dog. Cooper quickly found himself at the center of an urgent conversation about weaponized whiteness and police brutality against Black men in the U.S., amplified by another devastating video circulating that same day: George Floyds murder by Minneapolis police. Many will pick up Coopers memoir for his account of the interaction that captured international attention and forever changed his life  and it is a powerful, damning examination  but it is far from the main event. By the time it shows up, Cooper has already given us poignant recollections of growing up Black and gay (and in the closet) in 1970s Long Island, a loving analysis of science fiction, a behind-the-scenes look at the comic-book industry as it broke through to the mainstream, and most significantly, an impassioned ode to and accessible education on recreational birding. (The audiobook comes with interstitial birdsong!) Recalling his time at Harvard, Cooper turns repeatedly to his love of his English classes, and this background comes through in his masterful writing. An already prolific writer in the comic-book space, his memoir marks his first (and hopefully not last) foray into the long-form territory.

8.

McKenzie Wark is one of the sharpest, most exciting voices writing at the intersections of capitalism, community, gender, and sex  more broadly, everything in this title  and she is also criminally underread. In her epistolary memoir Love and Sex , she looks at a lifetime of transitions  journeys not only through her gender, but also politics, art, relationships, and aging  and reflects on all the ways she has become the woman she is today, in letters to the people who helped shape her. Warks first letter is, fittingly, directed to her younger self. She acknowledges their infinite possible futures and that, in this way, this younger Wark on the brink of independence is the one most responsible for setting her on the path to this specific future. In theory, its a letter to offer clarity, even guidance, to this younger self, but really its a means of listening to and learning from her. Her letters to mothers, lovers, and others are as much, if not more, about Wark as they are about the recipients, but that self-reflection doubles as a testament to the recipients power. What comes across most strongly is Warks belief in ongoing evolution and education, and its hard not to leave inspired by that possibility.

7.

Pulitzer Prize winner Viet Thanh Nguyens memoir maintains the singular voice of his fiction: audacious, poetic, self-aware. Written in nonlinear second-person stream of consciousness  its disjointedness represented on the page by paragraphs volleying from left to right alignment across the page  A Man of Two Faces recounts his life as a Vietnamese refugee in the U.S. When his family moves from wartime Vietnam to San Jose, California, 4-year-old Nguyen is placed in a different sponsor home than the rest of his family. The separation is brief, but it sets a tone of alienation that continues throughout his life  both from his parents, who left their home in pursuit of safety but landed in a place with its own brand of violence, and from his new home. As he describes his journey into adulthood and academia, Nguyen incorporates literary and cultural criticism, penetrating analyses of political history and propaganda, and poignant insights about memory and trauma.

6.

Its safe to say alt-comedian Maria Bamfords voice isnt for everyone. Those who get her anti-stand-up stand-up get it and those who dont, dont. Her absurdist, meta series Lady Dynamite revealed the work of a woman learning to recognize and love her brilliant weirdness, and in Sure, Ill Join Your Cult, she channels that weirdness into a disarmingly earnest, more accessible account of both fame and mental illness. Centered on Bamfords desperate pursuit of belonging, and the many, often questionable places its led her  church, the comedy scene, self-actualization conferences, 12-step groups, each of which she puts under the umbrella of the titular cults  Sure, Ill Join Your Cult is egoless, eye-opening, uncomfortable, and laugh-out-loud funny. These are among the best qualities  maybe even prerequisites  of an effective mental-illness memoir, and Bamfords has earned its keep in the top tier. If youre thinking of skipping it because you havent connected with Bamfords work before: dont.

5.

In Isabel Zapatas intimate, entrancing memoir In Vitro, the Mexican poet brazenly breaks what she calls the first rule of in vitro fertilization: never talk about it. Originally published in Spanish in 2021, and with original drawings woven throughout, In Vitro is a slim collection of short, discrete pieces. Its fragments not only describe the invasive process and its effects on her mind and body, but also contextualize its lineage, locating the deep-seated draw of motherhood and conception, analyzing the inheritances of womanhood, and speaking directly to her potential child. All together, it becomes something expansive  an insightful personal history but also a brilliant philosophical text about the very nature of sacrifice and autonomy.

4.

When Jami Nakamura Lin was 17 years old, she checked herself into a psych ward and was diagnosed bipolar. After years experiencing disorienting periods of rage, the diagnosis offers validation  especially for her historically dismissive parents  but it doesnt provide the closure that mainstream depictions of mental illness promise. In The Night Parade, intriguingly categorized as a speculative memoir, Lin explains that if a story is good, it collapses time; in other words, it has no beginning or end. Chasing this idea, Lin turns to the stories of her Japanese, Taiwanese, and Okinawan heritage, using their demons, spirits, and monsters to challenge ideas of recovery and resituate her feelings of otherness. Intertwined in this pursuit is her grappling with the young death of her father and the birth of her daughter after a traumatic miscarriage. Extensively researched  citing not only folklore but also scholars of history, literary, and mythology  and elevated by her sister Cori Nakamura Lins lush illustrations, The Night Parade is both an entirely new perspective on bipolar disorder and a fascinating education in mythology by an expert who so clearly loves the material. It might be Lins first book, but it possesses the self-assurance, courage, and mastery of a seasoned writer.

3.

After the onset of the COVID pandemic, as the U.S. devolved into frenzied factions, sociopolitical analyst Naomi Klein found herself in the middle of her own bewildering drama: A substantial population, especially online, began to either confuse or merge her with Naomi Wolf, a writer whod gone from feminist intellectual to anti-vaxx conspiracy theorist. Kleins initial bemusement becomes real concern verging on obsession as she fixates on her sort-of doppelganger and starts questioning the stability of her identity. Klein becomes entangled in the world of her opposite, tracing the possible pipelines from leftism to alt-right and poking at the cracks in our convictions. Throughout, she nails the uncanniness of our digital existence, the ways constant performance of life both splinters and constrains the self. What happens when we sacrifice our humanity in the pursuit of a cohesive personal brand? And when were this far gone, is there any turning back?

2.

Throughout the yearslong campaign to release Britney Spears from a predatory conservatorship, the lingering conspiracy theories questioning its success, and the ongoing cultural discourse about the ways public scrutiny has harmed her, what has largely been missing is Spearss own voice. In her highly anticipated memoir, she lays it all out: her upbringing in a family grappling with multiple generations of abuse, the promise and betrayal of stardom, her exploitation and manipulation by loved ones, and the harrowing, dehumanizing realities of her conservatorship. These revelations are tempered by moments of genuine joy shes found in love, motherhood, and singing, though its impossible to read these recollections without anticipating the loss  or at least the complication  of these joys. Most touching are her descriptions of her relationships with her sons; her tone is conversational, but it resonates with deep, undying devotion. Its an intimate story, and one that forces questions about our treatment of mental illness, the ethics of psychiatric practices, the relationships between public figures and their fans, and the effects of fame  especially on young women. Justice for Britney, forever.

1.

When Shane McCrae was 3 years old, his white maternal grandparents told his Black father they were taking Shane on a camping trip. It wasnt the first time theyd done so, but this time, they never returned. What followed was a life full of instability, abuse, and manipulation, while his grandparents  including a grandfather who had, more than once, trawled cities for Black men to attack  convinced McCrae his father had abandoned him and that his Blackness was a handicap. Its clear McCrae is first and foremost a poet; the rhythm of his prose and his hypnotic evocation of sensory memory reveals the way a lifetime of lies affected his grasp on his past. Maybe he cant trust the facts of his past, but he certainly knows what it felt like, what it looked like. As he excavates and untangles muddied memories, contends with ambivalent feelings about his grandmother and mother, and ultimately comes to terms with their unforgivable robbery of a relationship with both his father and his true, full self, McCraes pain bleeds through his words  but so too does a gentle sense of acceptance. We are lucky to bear witness.
Theres Something About Timothee Six years ago, he became the most in-demand young actor in Hollywood. What makes him so irresistible? Photo-Illustration: Vulture ; Photos: Shin Ishikawa/Getty Images, Max Cisotti/Dave Benett/WireImage, Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images, Ernesto Ruscio/Getty Images, Stefania DAlessandro/Getty Images, John Shearer/WireImage, Ernesto Ruscio/Getty Images, Kevin Mazur/Getty Images, Dave Benett/WireImage, Rob Latour/Variety/Penske Media via Getty Images, Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images, James Devaney/GC Images, Jun Sato/WireImage, Kurt Krieger/Corbis via Getty Images, Don Arnold/WireImage, Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images, Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

Timothee Chalamet wears an Off-White jacket that Nick Kroll jokes makes him look like a gas-station attendant. He wears a Vuitton bib-cum-harness embroidered with sequins and caviar clusters of black beads. He wears archival Helmut Lang. He wears a Gorillaz T-shirt. He wears a slinky red Haider Ackermann halter top that shows a broad, pale swath of back. There are common elements to these outfits  the matching shirts and pants, the stiff and glossy with the flowy, the deliberately artless rolled-up pant cuffs  that show a private sensibility at work: an appreciation of balance and of fine materials, a need for a bit of patina. Over and over he wears the same Ackermann cowboy Chelsea boots, black and curvy with a thick slice of heel.

Chalamet in the Louis Vuitton bib, 2019. Photo: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

Chalamet began his rise to boy of the Zeitgeist while riding on the success of the gay movie that fashion people loved. He was a loyal wearer of Virgil Abloh, whom he followed from Ablohs own brand, Off-White  he wore that gas-station-attendant jacket to the Independent Spirit Awards in 2018  to Louis Vuittons menswear. To the 2019 Golden Globes, he wore the black bib-harness, a recurring style in Ablohs first Vuitton collection that never really took off otherwise. (Abloh died in 2021; Chalamet posted a tribute on Instagram ending with Dylan Thomass poem Do not go gentle into that good night.) He sat in the front row at Paris Fashion Week. He became a fashion monster.

His evolution was pushed along by a snowmelt river of clout for publicly straight cisgender men wearing gender-expansive clothing, a period roughly from 2016 to 2021. Male celebrities dressing in anything but traditional menswear have historically gotten strong reactions  see Dennis Rodman with his wedding dress and tiny tank tops. But in the mid-aughts, the organs of mainstream image production began to openly adopt signifiers of gay, queer, gender-expansive, and transgender style, and reactions skewed positive. There was Young Thug in a Dutch blue dress by Alessandro Trincone on the cover of his album Jeffery. Harry Styles in a pearl earring and lacy sheer top at the Met Gala, then in a dress on the cover of Vogue. Bad Bunny twerking in drag, wearing perfect fake tits and latex. Lil Uzi Verts kilts and off-the-shoulder mall goth sweaters.

In Haider Ackermann, 2022. Photo: Maria Moratti/Getty Images

There was a heady, queasy feeling about this. It was as if by publicly liking these outfits, one could avail oneself of a sense of progressive moral good, even though the asymmetries in power between celebrities and the places where these styles had originated were glaring. But everything was in motion. Maybe this meant things were changing; maybe this would change things.

By the 2020s, more queer and trans celebrities had entered the fashion Establishment  Lil Nas X pole-dancing into hell, Doctor Barbie Hari Nef  and people were, for the most part, no longer getting blogged about for wearing a skirt. As the clout freshet ebbed, Timothee kept dressing. In fact, it became easier to appreciate that he was an interesting dresser all along: a sensualist with an appreciation for glossy fabrics and monochrome, the kind of fashion consumer who loves being close to designers and texts them hoodie ideas or, in the case of Ackermann, a quick I love you, bro. (As Ackermann explained it: We understand one another like old souls  people with the same sensibilities always find one another.)

Chalamet doesnt have the natural comprehensiveness of a Rodman. Hes not a truffle pig for emerging designers like Julia Fox or 90s Chloe Sevigny, patron saints of fashion students working at their kitchen tables. Instead, he has the taste of a person who got into fashion once they were already famous. For him, an artsy fit is a pair of overalls made by Gagosian-represented artist Sterling Rubys clothing brand; the working mans version of the same outfit might come from a more interesting, scrappier L.A. designer like Come Tees or 69. Its sort of charming how bland his street style can be compared to his bravura dressing for events.

In Tom Ford, 2023. Photo: James Devaney/GC Images

The lore is that Timothee does not have a stylist. This isnt entirely true  hes worked with Erin Walsh in the past and has recently started working with Ryan Hastings  but some of his best, most distinctive looks fall outside those collaborations: the Louis Vuitton bib, an electric blue shirt and matching pants by Ackermann. In 2019, he wore a silver Ackermann suit to the premiere of The King, cinched around the waist with a loop of two-faced satin like a cummerbund, glossy on one side and matte on the other. Instead of a shirt, his chest was covered by a panel of silk that hung down from his collarbones like beaten pewter. He loves to dress to a prompt  complicated tailoring and smooth surfaces for his Dune press tour, slutty little tops for Bones and All, latex and brown leather for dating Kylie Jenner  but the theory behind it is coherent, the same ideas and shapes recurring, tweaked or refined each time. This is a fashion monster evolving into a fashion adult.

Correction: Chalamets stylist is Ryan Hastings. A previous version of this story misstated who he is currently working with.
Brazil has fined petrochemical company Braskem 72 million reais ($13.5 million) for environmental damage in the northeastern city of Maceio. The fine  imposed on Tuesday by the Environment Institute of the State of Alagoas  concerns damage caused to five neighborhoods in Maceio, which are at risking of disappearing into a giant hole.

Brazil is very aware of the speed at which the ground is sinking. Movement has slowed  6.3 centimeters on Monday  but the danger remains, according to authorities. The thousands of homes in the area have been uninhabited since 2019, a year after geologists determined that the sinking was due to Braskems decades-long mining activity. The company  the sixth-largest in the sector worldwide  has failed to comply with the order to fill in the mine to stabilize the ground, the Brazilian newspaper O Globo reported Tuesday.

The problem, which affects a fifth of the land of Maceio, dates back five years. The residents of the 14,000 homes directly affected were evicted years ago, when the area began to sink in 2018. The five neighborhoods that existed above the mine are now a ghost town. The issue was considered local news, but made national headlines last Friday after several seismic movements accelerated the sinking process. Maximum alert for the imminent risk of collapse, was the unequivocal warning made by authorities.

The mayor of Maceio said over the weekend that the effects of a total collapse were impossible to determine because it would be an unprecedented event in the world. The crisis came as Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai, on a visit to present Brazil as the great protector of the Amazon rainforest and a pioneer in the fight against the climate emergency.

Brazils Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Marina Silva, criticized Braskem for its disastrous activity in Maceio, the capital of Alagoas state. According to the newspaper Folha, Silva said that Braskem holds total responsibility for the crisis. She added that environmental authorization processes need to be rigorous as any easing of the rules could lead to catastrophic effects, as demonstrated by the situation in Maceio.

The crisis in Maceio has put Braskem under the spotlight. The company, which is listed on the stock exchange, has 8,000 employees and clients in more than 70 countries around the world. It failed to fulfill its own plans to begin filling the mine galleries with sand to stabilize the ground. This process was scheduled to start on November 25, but no action was taken. Four days later, a succession of seismic movements accelerated the sinking and set off alarm bells. The filling process, which the company has carried out in other mines, was going to take 18 months to complete.

Given the worsening of the crisis, the federal and state prosecutors office has presented a new lawsuit demanding that Braskem and the City Council provide 1,000 million reais ($200 million) to address the environmental risk. It also calls on Braskem to compensate more families.

Braskem had a stand at COP28, where it presented itself as an environmentally friendly company. But it hastily shut it down after the crisis in Maceio made headlines. The general director of the multinational, Roberto Bishoff, said Monday in Sao Paulo that the company is committed to resolving this matter without putting people at risk. Without going into details, he blamed the crisis on political interests that end up creating distorted information, [on] social networks.

Experts from the Brazilian Geological Service ruled in 2019 that the land was sinking due to the activities of Braskem, which for almost half a century drilled in an area of Maceio that was home to almost 60,000 people. The company extracted rock salt, which is used to manufacture caustic soda and PVC. Since then, it has sunk 1.8 meters.

The agency of the Mining Ministry that oversees the sectors activities ordered the company to stop extracting rock salt and close the affected mines. It took two years to develop a project that, according to O Globo, was initially only going to seal the entrance to the mine. The company changed its plans after realizing that the cavity was depressurized and decided to fill the almost half a million cubic meters of galleries with sand. But as the mine sunk, the volume that needed to be filled was reduced.

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Perus Constitutional Court ordered an immediate humanitarian release Tuesday for imprisoned former president Alberto Fujimori, 85, who was serving a 25-year sentence in connection with the death squad slayings of 25 Peruvians in the 1990s. The ruling has sparked a diplomatic dispute with the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR), which Tuesday night requested the state refrain from executing the release order.

The courts decision comes six years after former president Pedro Pablo Kuczynski granted Fujimori a humanitarian pardon, a move that undermined his government. Tuesdays ruling has overtones of that pardon, and has been equally divisive. Outside Barbadillo prison, in Ate, northeast of Lima, where Fujimori is imprisoned, his supporters cheered and danced to Ritmo del Chino, a tecnocumbia that he had used for his re-election campaign in the early 2000s. Meanwhile, relatives of the students who died in the death squad killings gathered in front of the Palace of Justice to protest Fujimoris release, yelling: A pardon is an insult.

The courts ruling has also divided Perus parliament, with some lawmakers arguing that the decision must be followed and others warning of the danger of breaking with the IACHR, which opposes Fujimoris release. A week ago, the IACHR reminded the Peruvian government that its obligation to refrain from releasing him remains in force. It granted Peru a period of six days to issue a report on the matter, a deadline that will be reached on Wednesday, when Fujimori is expected to be released from prison.

On Tuesday afternoon, after the Constitutional Court made its ruling, Perus President Dina Boluarte held a meeting with the Minister of Justice, Eduardo Arana. There was some initial suspense about how the government would deal with the issue, but it was soon made clear that they would adhere to the ruling. The IACHR asked for time until the court has all the necessary elements to analyze whether said decision [the Constitutional ruling] complies with the conditions established in a resolution from April 2022, when it blocked the release of the former president.

Fujimoris children met at the home of his daughter, Keiko Fujimori, in the San Borja district. Former congressman Kenji Fujimori was caught by reporters just as he was entering the house. Both Keiko and Kenji Fujimori refrained from commenting on the courts decision. They said they will make a statement once the administrative process for their fathers release is completed. Elio Riera, Fujimoris lawyer, said Tuesday night that the process depended on the officials of the National Penitentiary Institute (INPE), specifically the Release Department. The Constitutional Court decision says that [the release] must take place during the day. It should be adhered to. But it is up to INPE, he said.

Lawmaker Ruth Luque announced that she will denounce the three judges of the Constitutional Court who signed the order: Francisco Morales Saravia, Luz Pacheco Zerga and Gustavo Gutierrez Ticse. It is an illegal release. I am going to denounce them for the crime of prevarication and for constitutional violations, she said. Here there is a congressional majority that is not interested in what the Inter-American Court says. They have come with a whole script to impose this pact of impunity and corruption.

The National Human Rights Coordinator issued a statement maintaining that the Constitutional Court violates the rule of law by violating the resolution of the Inter-American Court and, in addition, attacks the memory of the victims of the Fujimori dictatorship. The feminist organization Manuela Ramos also criticized the order and pointed out that Fujimori has never apologized for his crimes. Fujimori is imprisoned for crimes against humanity. He has not apologized for them, much less compensated the victims, the organization stated.

In the resolution, the judges of the Constitutional Court argue that Fujimori has already served approximately two-thirds of his sentence, and point out that he is 85 years old and in poor health. His supporters have also made this argument, with politician Miguel Torres even going so far as to ask for humanity from the victims relatives.

For former attorney Cesar Azabache, the courts order sends a worrying message about Perus relationship with the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. It is a very serious turning point in not abiding by an express order of the court and how civil rights protections are configured in the country. It is a drift towards a point of no return.

Carlos Rivera, a lawyer at the Legal Defense Institute (IDL), who defends the relatives of the victims, expects the IACHR to take immediate action. The IACHR could denounce the case before the Organization of American States. But I am sure that before that it will call for a hearing.

While one side celebrates, the other is calling for justice. At this point, reconciliation appears unlikely. And this is all happening on the eve of December 7, one year after Pedro Castillos self-coup, which marked the beginning of Boluartes government.

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Kyle Willis hadnt seen Kimberly Graham in years, since the day she was sentenced to 107 years in prison after she drunkenly plowed her truck into a group of motorcyclists in Tulsa, killing five people, including his mother and stepfather. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight So it was a shock when he saw her at a court hearing last month  tanned, dressed in a frilly purple top and jeans and laughing  a free woman. Graham, who is Native American, was let out of prison in April after a Supreme Court decision last year that found that a large part of eastern Oklahoma is still Indian country. Despite a century of state and local prosecutions, the court ruled that crimes there were the province of federal and tribal courts.

Shes enjoying life as if nothing ever happened, said Willis, 34, of Broken Arrow, Okla., who said the sight of Graham left him numb. Its bizarre. Its crazy.

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The Supreme Courts landmark decision in McGirt v. Oklahoma said prosecution of Native Americans for crimes in the expanded Indian country must be carried out in federal and tribal courts, rather than by state or local officials. It was celebrated across the country by Native Americans last July, who saw it as a historic affirmation of treaties signed with the U.S. government in the 1800s.

But in the year since, the ruling has upended Oklahomas criminal justice system, imperiled convictions in thousands of cases, sowed confusion for police and emergency responders and led to the direct release of more than 50 criminals convicted on charges including second-degree murder and child abuse, state records show.

And there may be wider impacts for the region, which covers 19 million acres in eastern Oklahoma, includes a portion of the states second-biggest city, Tulsa, and is home to 1.8 million people.

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A local power plant is challenging an increase in its property taxes. The state is fending off a move by the federal government to strip its ability to regulate mines on Indian land. The state has also raised concerns about a potential loss of tax revenue.

The fallout has exacerbated long-standing tensions between Oklahomas Republican governor, Kevin Stitt, who is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, and the leaders of five tribes involved. Stitt held a community forum on the issue this month that degenerated into raucous shouting, with attendees booing and chanting, Treaties are the law of the land!

We are living a nightmare out here, said Ryan Leonard, the Oklahoma governors special counsel for Native American affairs. Its complete, dysfunctional chaos in the state of Oklahoma.

Leaders of the tribes have pushed back against Stitt, saying that the state stoked fear by alleging that criminals are being released and that state officials have overestimated the number of cases that may have to be revisited  about 76,000, by the states count.

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People see McGirt as this drastic change in the law, but the tribes dont see it that way, said Sara Hill, the attorney general of the Cherokee Nation. They see it as affirming and restoring authority to the tribes.

The Oklahoma Department of Corrections says that courts have so far dismissed or vacated convictions in 129 felony cases because of McGirt. The total includes at least 57 people who were in prison at the time of the ruling on a range of serious charges  including child abuse, robbery, manslaughter, second-degree murder, shooting with intent to kill, lewd acts with a child and burglary  and subsequently released.

A survey of McGirt-affected district attorneys found an estimated 76,000 cases dating to 2005, including more than 28,000 felonies, that could be revisited if challenged by the defendants, the state said. That number could be even larger if plaintiffs not previously identified as Native Americans seek to vacate their convictions by claiming Native American heritage now, state officials said.

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While the idea of retrying felony cases tends to cause greater alarm for the public, state officials are also concerned about dismissals for less serious crimes such as drunken driving, a misdemeanor on first offense that can be subject to higher penalties if drivers re-offend.

Hill countered that Stitts office was massively exaggerating the number of cases impacted.

With the state forced to step back, the tribes have expanded their legal operations, adding new prosecutors, marshals and victims services coordinators. The Cherokee Nation, for example, has added six prosecutors, two district court judges and 13 marshals in recent months, filing 1,300 cases this year.

The Cherokees support proposed federal legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.) that would allow them, as well as the Chickasaw Nation, to forge an agreement with the state to resolve jurisdictional issues.

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But other tribal leaders are loath to make any concessions after the ruling affirmed the binding nature of commitments made to their forebears generations ago.

The McGirt decision has created so many opportunities for improved safety and security for all citizens of Oklahoma, David Hill, the principal chief of the Muscogee Creek Nation, said in a statement. We have continually sought collaboration with state and local officials to realize this new promise. But rather than work together, some politicians seem determined to return to the broken system of the past.

Supreme Court Justice Neil M. Gorsuch invoked the nations troubled past when he cast the deciding vote in McGirt last summer. The ruling came after lawyers for a convicted child molester, Jimcy McGirt, argued that the state did not have jurisdiction to prosecute him because he was a Native American on tribal land.

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On the far end of the Trail of Tears was a promise, Gorsuch wrote, alluding to the forced relocation of the Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek and Seminole nations in the 1800s. Forced to leave their ancestral lands in Georgia and Alabama, the Creek Nation received assurances that their new lands in the West would be secure forever.

He concluded: Because Congress has not said otherwise, we hold the government to its word.

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Gorsuch said the objections by Oklahoma and the federal government that such a finding would throw law enforcement in the area into chaos were not enough: Dire warnings are just that, and not a license for us to disregard the law.

Gorsuch, the only member of the Supreme Court to have served on a federal appeals court in the West, has been a strong vote for Native American interests on the court. Although a consistent conservative, he sided in McGirt v. Oklahoma with the courts then-four liberals, including Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who died in September.

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However, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. warned in his dissent that the States ability to prosecute serious crimes will be hobbled and decades of past convictions could well be thrown out. On top of that, the court has profoundly destabilized the governance of eastern Oklahoma.

This spring, Oklahoma filed an emergency application with the Supreme Court and said Robertss prediction had been prescient.

In applying the McGirt decision, the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals threw out the state conviction of a man convicted of murder in the killing of a Native American woman and her two children in what is now considered Indian country and opened the door for others to contest their convictions.

The federal government intends to retry Shaun Michael Bosse and others convicted in the most serious cases, including inmates on death row. Those prisoners are unlikely now to face the death penalty, the U.S. attorneys office said. According to federal law, tribes have to opt in for the death penalty, and none of the five tribes has done so.

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The U.S. attorneys office for the Northern District of Oklahoma said it had reviewed 2,460 cases by mid-July, accepting 826 for prosecution and referring approximately 1,474 to tribal prosecutors. It has had to expand its staff by more than 58 percent as caseloads have doubled.

But not all cases will head back to court, and then-Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter told the Supreme Court that significant numbers of convicts would be released.

It appears likely that 27% of convicts who raise McGirt post-conviction claims have a good chance of going free without re-prosecution by the federal government, Hunter said in the emergency application this year. Given the hundreds of post-conviction cases now accumulating in district courts, the public safety considerations are frightening.

Hunter asked the justices to put the state courts ruling on hold while the state prepared for another try at the Supreme Court, and the court agreed, without explaining its reasoning. The courts three liberals dissented.

The courts willingness to grant the stay in the Bosse case may indicate that some of the justices are willing to reexamine or limit the McGirt ruling, analysts said. The courts balance on the issue has shifted, with the liberal Ginsburg replaced by conservative Amy Coney Barrett. The state is preparing a formal petition to the court to accept the case for additional briefing and oral arguments.

The courts stay in the Bosse case has granted the state some breathing room, but law enforcement officials and emergency responders say the McGirt ruling continues to cause complications.

Charlie D. Peoples, an emergency response dispatcher, said McGirt has meant that he is now required to ask 911 callers if they are members of a federally recognized tribe. If they are, he transfers the callers to the Muscogee Creek Nation, where they are sometimes met with a hold tone and music because the call volume is so high, he said

Law enforcement officers responding to a scene have seen tribal license plates on cars, then spent time sorting out who was Native American and who was not, Peoples said.

The rules are very unclear, and we have no formal training, he said in an interview. Its very confusing, and its very taxing on all first responders, honestly.

In recent weeks, family members of victims like Willis have organized protests as they grapple with fresh wounds from traumatic chapters of their lives they believed were closed or at least finally adjudicated long ago.

We are re-traumatizing victims at a perilous rate. That is not anywhere close to justice, said Steve Kunzweiler, the district attorney for Tulsa County.

Federal and tribal prosecutors will have to retry some cases for which key witnesses have died, and in which memories have faded and evidence has been lost. Tribal courts can sentence up to a maximum of three years per count and can order those sentences to be served consecutively, for up to nine years in some instances.

Tessa Williams, 50, of Owasso is steeling herself for the federal retrial of Clarence Rozell Goode Jr., who was given the death penalty after he was convicted of killing her sister, brother-in-law and 10-year-old niece Kayla with two accomplices during a family dispute in 2005. A lead detective in the case has died, along with several witnesses, including Williamss mother, who found the bodies when she stopped by the home to give Kayla her cheerleader uniform.

Some days I dont even remember why I go into the kitchen, but I can tell you every detail of what happened then, the things you heard and what was done in that courtroom, Williams said. I dont want to see it again; I dont want to hear it again.

But, Williams said, theres nothing we can do about it but stay strong and do our part and make sure justice is carried out.

Graham, the woman who was released in April, was convicted in 2008 on five counts of manslaughter and leaving the scene of an accident after she allegedly drank alcohol and drove her truck into a group of people, including Williss mother, DeAnna Rosser-Coatney, a fourth-grade teacher. A witness later testified that Graham left an explosion of bodies in her wake as she left the scene.

Federal prosecutors cannot retry the case because of a five-year statute of limitations on manslaughter. The tribal court has a limit of seven years. But after family members, including Willis, waged an extensive campaign of telephone calls, emails and TikTok videos, prosecutors for the Creek Nation agreed to take up the case. They argued in filings that the statute of limitations should be suspended because of the unusual circumstances of the McGirt decision. Graham is free on a $52,000 cash bond.

Her lawyer, Richard OCarroll, said she did not want to give an interview.

Shes moving on with her life, he said.

He said she was unlikely ever to spend another night in jail in the case.

correction This article has been changed to provide additional information about estimates by Oklahoma officials that as many as 76,000 misdemeanor and felony convictions could be contested under the Supreme Courts McGirt ruling. An earlier version of the article said the estimate was 79,000. A statement from Sara Hill, the attorney general of the Cherokee Nation, that the state is massively exaggerating the number of cases was also added.

Julie Tate contributed to this report.
Last Thursday morning, Yuval Doron Castleman  a name now known throughout Israel  was driving into Jerusalem to go to work. Suddenly, two Palestinians got out of a car and opened fire on a group of people waiting at a bus stop, killing three. Castleman, a former policeman with a weapons permit, jumped out of his car, approached the attackers, and fired at them before they fled.

The first reports in the media followed the usual pattern: alerting to the attack, the rising death toll, the claiming of responsibility (by Hamas) and congratulations to those who had neutralized the assailants. However, one piece of information was missing: a fourth fatality that at first did not fit into the puzzle and the details of which have turned into a national debate that has tainted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and placed the focus on the massive distribution of firearms licenses to civilians and the growing presence in the army of ultra-nationalist settlers. In this case, eager to mark on their rifle butts the notch of a dead Palestinian.

The fourth corpse was Castleman. The hero of Israel  as Netanyahu now describes him after initially playing down the tragedy  was shot by an army reservist who had not seen what happened and mistook him for one of the attackers. Wounded, Castleman read the situation: he raised his hands, took off his coat to show that he was not wearing an explosive belt, and shouted in Hebrew: Dont shoot, Im a Jew, Im an Israeli! He even tossed his wallet so his identity card could be checked. The soldier, however, fired again, as a video of the incident clearly captures. Castleman would have turned 39 the following day.

It is not the end result that is exceptional: several Palestinian attacks over the years have concluded in the execution of the attacker, when they no longer presented a threat, amid the applause of the right and the silence of others. As the far-right politician Bezalel Smotrich, the current Finance Minister, said in 2016: A terrorist who goes out to harm Jews does not come back alive. Period. This modus operandi usually generates little debate, except in paradigmatic cases publicized by human rights organizations, such as one that many remember these days: that of Elor Azaria, an Israeli soldier who in 2016 calmly loaded his rifle and walked toward a Palestinian who lay wounded and completely motionless after stabbing a serviceman in the West Bank city of Hebron, then shot him in the head. His trial divided the country, with massive demonstrations, and turned Azaria  who spent nine months in jail  into a martyr of the right.

The difference in this case is that Castleman risked his life to stop the attack and ended up losing it to a compatriot. His familys outrage has been growing in parallel with the emergence of more details. My son has been murdered. There is no other definition for what has been done to him, his father, Moshe, told the Yediot Aharonot newspaper. His sister, Shaked, said he was simply executed, despite having acted in the most professional manner possible because of his police background. There is no other way to look at things, she added before lamenting finding herself in a battle to see justice done, rather than being able to mourn.

The two soldiers who fired the shots had their backs to the attack when it unfolded. They took cover on the ground and did not see what happened. When they got up, they began firing at those they believed to be the attackers. The soldier who killed Castleman has been identified as Aviad Farija, a religious ultranationalist who defines himself as a hilltop youth, the term for the most ideological  and sometimes violent  settlers in the West Bank.

Pressure led to Farijas interrogation by the military police and the confiscation of his weapon on Monday, four days after the incident. It also led to the opening of an investigation that the police  overseen by another ultra right-winger, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir  will share with the army, which has been openly critical of the incident.

A man reacts to the attack at a bus stop in Jerusalem, for which Hamas claimed responsibility. RONALDO SCHEMIDT (AFP)

Make an X

The following is the interview that Farija gave shortly after the shooting to a journalist from Channel 14, the preferred national station of the right wing:

 They say you are a hero.

 I know. I was lucky.

 What do you mean?

 I was in the right place at the right time, but every soldier in the Israeli army is dying to make an X [register a confirmed kill].

 Did you make confirmation of the kill?

 Yes, we shot until they fell.

Although Castleman had long been licensed to carry a pistol, his death has reopened the debate about the risk of accidents or gratuitous shootings from arming more and more civilians. We should not be afraid to talk about it, to put it on the table, the president, Isaac Herzog, said Monday during a visit to the family to offer condolences and apologize on behalf of the nation.

The number of civilian gun licenses had already risen in recent years in the heat of spikes in violence, which often drive the requests, and changes to the law. But the Hamas attacks on October 7  in which hundreds of civilians were killed or kidnapped while the security forces took hours to arrive  has led to even more.

Ben-Gvir, who had already relaxed the rules, has since potentially extended permits to another 400,000 Israelis and promised to hand out 10,000 firearms to settlers. His ministry has received 260,000 requests, of which 30,000 have been approved and 50,000 are in the final stages. The director general of the Ministry of National Security, Elazar Ben Harash, and the head of the weapons department, Israel Avishar, recently resigned, the latter because Ben-Gvirs handpicked appointments facilitated the issuance of permits in his offices which, in his opinion, should be reviewed. On October 30, Ben-Gvir visited a Jerusalem gas station where a Palestinian had just stabbed a policeman. A journalist asked him why he had not yet visited the wounded of October 7. Im busy handing out weapons, he replied.

Netanyahus initial reaction Saturday at a press conference further stirred controversy. Thats life, he said after defending Ben-Gvirs policy because arming civilians may carry a price, but it saves lives.

The discomfort over Netanyahus comments  it would have been difficult to choose more outrageous, contemptuous and offensive words, wrote Yoav Limor, a commentator for the Israel Hayom newspaper  forced the prime minister to half-heartedly rectify. He telephoned Castlemans father the following day and made it public in a statement in which he defined the former policeman as a hero of Israel who saved many lives, adding that his death would be investigated.

The case is not linked to the relaxation in recent years of the rules on opening fire, because in no case do these allow for shooting someone with their arms raised, says Roy Yellin, director of the outreach department of the Israeli human rights NGO BTselem. Some changes concern war zones (which does not include East Jerusalem) and others the power to shoot, which has become the norm in the streets, he adds, if the soldier feels his life is in danger because stones or a Molotov cocktail have been thrown.

For Yellin, it is more about the prevailing message after years of statements by right-wing politicians that they dont want to see attackers arrested. Many in the government today once supported Azaria, he says, which intermingles with Farijas ideological profile: If he had been a more professional and rule-sensitive soldier, he wouldnt have done it. But he was an ideological one, and one who believes that the life of an Arab is worth less than that of a Jew.

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If the government wants the $3.5 trillion superannuation industry to do more of the investment heavy-lifting on the energy transition and housing, it needs to provide the tools - and this includes cutting them a bit of slack on their performance tests.

This wont be music to the ears of most superannuants who are mandated to hand over a tenth of their salaries throughout their working lives in the hope it will be sufficient to finance their retirement.

But the big funds have mounted a cohesive campaign that the performance benchmarking to which funds are now subject creates a disincentive to invest super funds in longer-term assets where returns can be riskier.

Finding the right balance between super returns and funding the switch to clean energy: The government needs to find $225 billion over the next 25 years for the green transition. Credit: AP

For more than a decade, a lack of cohesive policies on housing supply and decarbonisation (like carbon pricing) has deprived investors like the super funds of the certainty they have needed to allocate capital  particularly in the energy transition.
Oyster farmers along the South Coast should be ramping up for the busiest time of the year, but this Christmas recent heavy rain and flooding means there will be shortages.

The region is one of the most significant oyster-producing regions in Australia, producing about 60 per cent of the states total oyster production.

South Coast oyster farms, including Natural Oyster Co, were inundated by rainfall last week, affecting oyster supplies. Credit: Brendan Tye

Every estuary south of Sydney is closed for harvesting after heavy rainfall and floods smashed the area last week, when some areas received 250-300 millimetres. Porters Creek received the most rainfall in 24 hours with 351mm, while Jervis Bay recorded 226.8mm of rain and Moruya had 225mm.

Industry support officer Anna Simonds from Sapphire Coast Wilderness Oysters, a group on the South Coast that supports producers, said the current harvesting shutdown would be the biggest Christmas oyster shortage in some time.
If you thought the post-pandemic glow-up meant that wearing leggings as pants had gone the way of PCR tests, youve been misinformed.

Activewear brand P.E Nation will take centre stage next March at Australias biggest consumer fashion event the Melbourne Fashion Festival (MFF) in the Grand Showcase, the only solo runway in a program dominated by group shows.

Step change  Pip Edwards, at P.E Nations Sydney store, is set to unveil the brands new direction at the 2024 Melbourne Fashion Festival. Credit: James Brickwood

P.E Nation, founded by Pip Edwards and Claire Tregoning in 2016, will also use the runway  an honour reportedly worth up to $300,000  to launch the next phase of their business. Its a full circle moment for the brand, which in 2018 won the festivals National Designer Award for up-and-comers when it was less than two years old.

Using words like evolution, step change and reposition, Edwards was coy about what the future looks like for a brand that successfully rode the pandemic athleisure wave. But what she withholds in detail, she promises to make up for in excitement once March rolls around.
Justice Michael Lee said: I take it it was a passionate kiss. Yes, Gain replied. Lisa Wilkinson and her barrister Sue Chrysanthou, SC, outside the Federal Court in Sydney on Wednesday. Credit: Louise Kennerley Lehrmann has denied touching or kissing Higgins, and denied that the pair had any sexual contact at any stage. Lehrmanns barrister, Steven Whybrow, SC, put to Gain, who said she could not recall leaving the bar, that her recollection was not accurate and there was no pash.

I reject that. That is a memory that I have, Gain replied. Gain agreed she sent a text via messaging app Telegram on Saturday, March 23, 2019, to an aide-de-camp to Reynolds, which read: Brittany hooked up with Bruce. She said this was a reference to the alleged kiss. Bruce Lehrmann outside the Federal Court in Sydney on Wednesday. Credit: Louise Kennerley She told the court that she had previously worked with Higgins for about four months in the former defence industry ministers office but did not believe she had met Lehrmann before. In an affidavit filed in court, Gain set out a Telegram message she sent Higgins on February 15, 2021, after News Corp published an interview with Higgins, which said: Thinking of you today. I really want you to feel supported and strong. Youre braver than I was at your age. Xx.

Gain said she had not heard from Higgins since and had not attempted to communicate with her. She also set out Telegram messages, sent days earlier in February 2021, in which Higgins apologised for the random message but said Lehrmann had sexually assaulted her in the early hours of March 23, 2019, after drinks at 88mph. Lehrmann has strenuously denied the allegation. Dr Matt Collins, KC, acting for Ten, has alleged in court that Lehrmann made up a scandalous allegation that Gain colluded with Higgins to make up false evidence against him. I invited him to withdraw the allegation, but he declined to do so. The allegation is without foundation, Collins said. Higgins gave evidence last month that she recalled Lehrmann being handsy with me at 88mph and I didnt want it, but I was tolerating it. Asked if he did anything else, Higgins said: Not that I recall.

Former Liberal staffer Austin Wenke, who also attended drinks at The Dock and 88mph on March 22 and into the early hours of March 23, 2019, gave evidence on Wednesday that he did not recall any specific interactions between Higgins and Lehrmann. Would it be fair to say if youd seen them kissing in front of you that that would likely have been something you would have remembered? Whybrow asked. Look, possibly, but as I said I dont recall specific interactions, and its been some time since that evening, Wenke said. Drinks at the Kingston Hotel Earlier on Wednesday, former Liberal staffer Nicole Hamer gave evidence that Lehrmann told her on March 2, 2019, that he found Higgins good-looking and urged her to invite Higgins to drinks that night.

Nicole Hamer outside the Federal Court in Sydney on Wednesday. Credit: Louise Kennerley Hamer said Higgins ultimately attended the drinks and that at some point during the night Lehrmann took Higgins phone away as a bit of play, I guess, to  stop her from being able to book her Uber and leave. Lehrmann has denied taking Higgins phone, and has told the court he did not recall saying that Higgins was good-looking or that Hamer should invite her to drinks. Jesse Wotton leaving the Federal Court in Sydney on Wednesday. Credit: Louise Kennerley Jesse Wotton, a second staffer present at the drinks on March 2, said that both he and Lehrmann urged Higgins to stay for another drink, but he believed she left shortly after.

He said he did not recall Higgins phone being taken from her or it featuring in any subsequent conversation with Hamer or Reynolds, as he believed it would have if it had occurred, but he was reluctant to deny anything occurred. Brittany Higgins leaves the Federal Court in Sydney on Tuesday. Credit: Louise Kennerley Sexual assault denied Lehrmann has denied sexually assaulting Higgins in Reynolds office in the early hours of March 23, 2019, and has told the court that there was no sexual contact between the pair at any stage. Lehrmanns ACT Supreme Court trial for sexual assault was aborted last year due to juror misconduct. The charge against Lehrmann was later dropped altogether owing to concerns about Higgins mental health. He has always maintained his innocence.

Loading The defamation suit Lehrmann is suing Network Ten and Wilkinson for defamation over an interview with Higgins, aired on The Project on February 15, 2021, that he alleges wrongly accuses him of sexually assaulting Higgins. He was not named in the broadcast and a preliminary issue in the case is whether he was identified via other means. If the court finds he was identified, Ten and Wilkinson are seeking to rely on a range of defences including truth, which would require the court to be satisfied to the civil standard  on the balance of probabilities  that he raped Higgins. In a criminal trial, the prosecution must prove a person is guilty beyond reasonable doubt. Lehrmanns deal with Seven
Authorities in the United States have arrested a man suspected of encouraging the Christian terrorists who murdered two police officers and a member of the public last year at a remote Queensland property.

The 58-year-old appeared in an Arizona court on Wednesday morning, Australian time, on US charges relating to messages he allegedly sent to members of the Train family before they killed constables Rachel McCrow and Matthew Arnold on December 12 last at Wieambilla, a sparsely populated community about 300 kilometres west of Brisbane.

The Trains communicated with a US man they called Don, pictured here in one of his videos. Credit: YouTube

Local man Alan Dare was also shot dead when he turned up at the fence to check on sounds of gunshots and smoke from fires lit by the Trains. All three of the extremists  Gareth, Nathaniel and Stacey  were killed hours later by specialist police officers during a gunfight.

Speaking in Brisbane on Wednesday alongside Federal Bureau of Investigation representative Nitiana Mann, Queensland Police Service Assistant Commissioner Cheryl Scanlon said the US national was indicted by a grand jury in Tucson, Arizona, on November 29 for online messages inciting violence in connection with the incident at Wieambilla sent in December last year.
Such rapid population losses will have dramatic economic consequences. With far more elderly retirees, and a shrinking pool of workers and taxpayers, it will be tough to generate the revenue needed for aged care, social security and healthcare. Funds for other crucial state responsibilities such as national security and the military will dwindle. Many governments will be forced into difficult, and potentially devastating, policy choices. Loading Australia is also vulnerable to the negative effects of an ageing population. Like most high-income countries our fertility rate (the number of births per women on average) has been trending lower since the 1970s. Last year it was 1.63, well below the so-called replacement rate of 2.1 needed for a stable population, not including migration. Our fertility rate could fall even further without more generous support for working parents, including child care and parental leave. The federal governments most recent intergenerational report warned the number of people aged 65 and over will more than double in the next 40 years and the number aged 85 and over will more than triple, putting added pressures on the federal budget. Even so, our relatively liberal approach to migration will ensure Australias population continues to rise at a gradual pace in coming decades.

The scenario is very different for many other developed nations. Take Italy (now 58 million), South Korea (51 million) and Spain (47 million) for example; all three now have much bigger populations than Australia, but UN projections show theyll have fewer people than us by 2100. Loading Australias openness to migration will help maintain a relatively stable working-age population  something that will become increasingly scarce as the century unfolds. According to The Lancet study, immigration-friendly nations including Australia, Canada and the US will be able to sustain their working-age populations over the long term, ensuring they fare well economically relative to others. Australia is now the worlds 14th largest economy when measured in $US, according to recent International Monetary Fund estimates. But modelling for The Lancet study showed the boost to population delivered by our relatively liberal immigration regime will help lift Australias ranking to 11th largest economy by 2050 and to 8th largest by 2100. Not bad for a country with a population forecast to remain less than half a per cent of the global total throughout the century.

Perhaps the biggest threat to that healthy outlook is politicians who choose to undermine voter support for immigration in the hope of short-term political gain. Loading Australia has a strong migrant history and, so far, has been spared the intense backlash against immigration which has roiled politics in the US and Europe for much of the past decade. Rather, opinion polls suggest Australians have become more accepting of immigration since the COVID-19 pandemic. The highly regarded Australian Election Study, compiled by the Australian National University and Griffith University, found the share of voters who think the number of migrants allowed into Australia has gone too far fell from 45 per cent in 2019 to 26 per cent in 2022, the lowest since the survey began in 1990. The proportion who said immigration was good for the economy jumped from 54 per cent in 2019 to 65 per cent in 2022, a record high. A separate Lowy Institute poll last year found seven in 10 Australians (68 per cent) agreed that openness to people from all over the world is essential to who we are as a nation  a 15-point increase compared with 2018.
Laws to redetain the worst of the worst of a group of high-risk offenders released from immigration detention after a High Court ruling have been passed by parliament in a fiery late-night session.

Opposition frontbencher Dan Tehan called Labor gutless for shutting down debate on the issue, which has dominated Canberra since the High Court ruling last month.

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, Minister for Home Affairs Clare ONeil and Immigration Minister Andrew Giles during a press conference on Wednesday. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

The bill was approved by the House of Representatives about 10pm on Wednesday, hours after a fourth member of the released cohort was charged in Melbourne for allegedly failing to comply with a curfew and stealing luggage at Melbourne Airport.

The Australian Federal Police arrested and charged the 45-year-old man, Sudanese-born Abdel Moez Mohamed Elawad, at a Melbourne hotel on Wednesday. They will allege Elawad breached conditions of his visa on December 1 by failing to observe his residential curfew obligations and stealing luggage from an airport traveller who was asleep in the terminal.
Man Sentenced for Election-Related Threats Toward Georgia Public Officials

A Texas man was sentenced today to two years in prison for posting a message online threatening several Georgia public officials following the 2020 election.

Threats of violence against those who administer our elections are dangerous for peoples personal safety, and they are dangerous for our democracy, said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. This sentence should serve as warning  illegal threats against the public servants who make our democracy work will be met with the full force of the Justice Department.

According to court documents, on or about Jan. 5, 2021, Chad Christopher Stark, 55, of Leander, posted a message to Craigslist entitled, Georgia Patriots its time to kill [Official A] the Chinese agent - $10,000. The message stated the following:

Georgia Patriots its time for us to take back our state from these Lawless treasonous traitors. Its time to invoke our Second Amendment right its time to put a bullet in the treasonous Chinese [Official A]. Then we work our way down to [Official B] the local and federal corrupt judges. Its our duty as American Patriots to put an end to the lives of these traitors and take back our country by force we can no longer wait on the corrupt law enforcement in the corrupt courts. If we want our country back we have to exterminate these people. One good loyal Patriot deer hunter in camo and a rifle can send a very clear message to these corrupt governors.. milita up Georgia its time to spill blood. we need to pay a visit to [Official C] and her family as well and put a bullet her behind the ears. Lets be very clear to our local law enforcement who have stood down and watch BLM antifa destroy our country and kill our citizens yet youll step up to stop Patriot supporters youll enforce face mask and youll close American businesses??? Remember one thing local law enforcement the key word being local.. we will find you oathbreakers and were going to pay your family to visit your mom your dad your brothers and sisters your children your wife were going to make examples of traitors to our country death to you and all you communist friends.

Its simple: protecting Americas democracy means protecting the public servants and officials who ensure the electoral process is fair and free, said FBI Director Christopher Wray. Christopher Stark threatened the lives of multiple election workers in an attempt to prevent them from doing their job. Todays sentencing demonstrates the FBIs resolute commitment to securing American elections from any attempts to undermine their integrity.

The conviction and sentencing of this defendant should send a clear message: the intimidation of those sworn to oversee and facilitate free and fair elections in this country is a serious offense that carries significant criminal penalties, said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan for the Northern District of Georgia. Stark threatened Georgia statewide elected officials and a volunteer county election worker. Those threats were equally harmful, and his conduct put our democracy in jeopardy.

Sending death threats and urging others to act is not protected speech  it is a crime, said Special Agent in Charge Keri Farley of the FBI Atlanta Field Office. The sentencing of Stark is a warning to all that those who attempt to undermine American democracy will be held criminally accountable.

The FBI Atlanta Field Office investigated the case.

Election Community Liaison Aaron Jennen and former Election Crimes Branch Director of Enforcement and Litigation Sean F. Mulryne of the Criminal Divisions Public Integrity Section and Senior Litigation Counsel Brent A. Gray for the Northern District of Georgia prosecuted this case.

This case is part of the Justice Departments Election Threats Task Force. Announced by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and launched by Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco in June 2021, the task force has led the departments efforts to address threats of violence against election workers, and to ensure that all election workers  whether elected, appointed, or volunteer  are able to do their jobs free from threats and intimidation. The task force engages with the election community and state and local law enforcement to assess allegations and reports of threats against election workers, and has investigated and prosecuted these matters where appropriate, in partnership with FBI Field Offices and U.S. Attorneys Offices throughout the country. The task force is continuing this work and supporting the U.S. Attorneys Offices and FBI Field Offices nationwide.

Under the leadership of Deputy Attorney General Monaco, the task force is led by the Criminal Divisions Public Integrity Section and includes several other entities within the Justice Department, including the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section of the Criminal Division, the Civil Rights Division, the National Security Division, and the FBI, as well as key interagency partners, such as the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. For more information regarding the Justice Departments efforts to combat threats against election workers, read the Deputy Attorney Generals memo.

To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact your local FBI office and request to speak with the Election Crimes Coordinator. Contact information for every FBI field office may be found at www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/. You may also contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or file an online complaint at www.tips.fbi.gov. Complaints submitted will be reviewed by the task force and referred for investigation or response accordingly. If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or your local police immediately.

This story has been published on: 2023-12-06. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Abbas Ganbay

Azerbaijan and the UK discussed issues of stimulating joint activities in the field of energy, export support, investments, and mutual initiatives in the field of trade, Azernews reports.

Economy Minister Mikail Jabbarov wrote about it in his account on the social network X.

"The current state and prospective directions of economic cooperation between Azerbaijan and the UK were discussed with UK Export Minister Lord Malcolm Offord," the minister wrote.
Two days after the referendum on Essequibo, a territory disputed between Venezuela and Guyana, the government of Nicolas Maduro is moving forward to try to enforce what was approved Sunday in a vote that registered almost no participation in the streets but which Chavismo hailed as a victory with 10.4 million voters, reawakening a crisis of credibility in the countrys electoral authorities. In a television appearance Tuesday, Maduro presented a new official map of Venezuela with Essequibo incorporated, without the disputed delimitation, during a Council of State in which he announced a series of measures and upcoming legislation to cement Caracas possession of the territory and its resources. Earlier, Maduro had sent a military contingent to Puerto Barima on the Venezuelan Atlantic border, close to the limits of the area under claim.

The war of narratives has begun. A few weeks ago, Guyana raised a flag on a small hill in Essequibo. On the day of the referendum, the Venezuelan Ministry of Communication released a video in which Indigenous people lowered the Guyanese flag and raised the Venezuelan flag. Maduro is now counterattacking with everything at his disposal. Via a special law announced Tuesday, he will create a new province or state in the territory, having already appointed a single provisional authority: Major-General Alexis Rodriguez Cabello, a deputy for the ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV), who will operate from the mining community of Tumeremo in Bolivar state, barely 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the town of San Martin de Turumbang in the disputed area.

We want the peaceful rescue of the Guayana Esequiba, said Maduro. Our Guayana Esequiba has been de facto occupied by the British Empire and its heirs and they have destroyed the area, he added in reference to the agreements made during Hugo Chavezs presidency, which created PetroCaribe. At the time, Venezuela offered discounted oil to the Caricom countries in exchange for diplomatic support for its Bolivarian revolution. However, in this historical dispute over Essequibo, those countries have traditionally supported Guyana.

Maduro has instructed the state oil company PDVSA to draw up a map of exploration and exploitation of the resources in Essequibo and ordered the National Assembly to draft a law prohibiting oil concessions granted by Guyana in the territorial sea to be delimited. The U.S. company Exxon Mobile has a maritime platform in the area. We are giving three months to the companies that are exploiting resources there without Venezuelan permission to comply with the law, he said. The Venezuelan president also asked the National Assembly to create environmental protection areas and national parks in the territory.

The dispute dates back to 1777, when the Captaincy General of Venezuela included the 159,500-square-kilometer (61,600-square-mile) region into a map of the country despite the territory not having been occupied by Venezuela either when it was part of the Spanish empire or after independence. In 1899, British Guiana managed to set limits in the Paris Arbitral Tribunal in a process that has been described as rigged. Two centuries later, the head of the Strategic Operational Command of the National Armed Forces, Domingo Hernandez Larez, posted images on social media of Venezuelan soldiers providing health care to the Indigenous communities living in the area. In one of the messages, he posted photos of trucks with construction materials and the message Towards the Guyana Shield in support of the integral development of the nation.

Guyana and its allies

We are very concerned that President Maduro and the government of Venezuela can use their own internal scenario and internal politics to create an instability within our region, to create fear and terror within the hearts and minds of their neighbors, said Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali Tuesday in an interview with France 24. Ali pointed out that both countries are bound to the process of the International Court of Justice, which resulted in the Geneva Agreement of 1966 by decision of the Secretary-General of the United Nations after decades of unsuccessful negotiations and despite the fact that Venezuela has insisted that the instance does not have jurisdiction to settle the dispute.

The international community has a great responsibility to ensure that peace prevails. Many countries are supporting Guyana in a peaceful resolution that must come out of the ICJ process, the Guyanese president said. We are working with our partners in the U.S. Departments of State and Defense to ensure that Guyana is not caught off guard and is prepared, and also to act as a country that respects the rule of law and international order.

Brazil, which shares a border with both Venezuela and Guyana, has also expressed concern over the escalation of the territorial dispute. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva spoke with both Maduro and Ali and reinforced the military deployment on the border. The Ministry of Defense increased the contingent of the Boa Vista detachment in the state of Roraima from 70 to 130 uniformed personnel. Its mission is to guard and protect the national territory, according to a statement from the ministry. After the Venezuelan referendum, Lula also decided to send around 20 armored vehicles to the triple border.

We are following the situation with concern, but I dont think its going to come to that [an armed confrontation], Ambassador Gisela Padovan, secretary for Latin America and the Caribbean at the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told Reuters Tuesday, adding that she trusted Brazilian diplomacy and that of the rest of the neighboring countries will manage to deflate the process.

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Industry groups have questioned why parts of the inner west and east have been left off the Minns governments plans for a major density boost across Sydney, while mayors have warned its plans to overhaul rezonings at Metro and heavy rail stations could delay thousands of homes already in the planning system.

On Tuesday the Herald revealed the government will rezone land around eight Metro and heavy rail stations to provide for 45,000 new homes by 2027, while also amending planning rules near another 31 train stations around Sydney, Wollongong and Newcastle as part of its signature housing push.

Roseville Station, one of 31 heavy rail stations where the government plans to change zoning rules to allow for more density. Credit: Steven Siewert

The plans, which were accidentally published online, also confirm the government will proceed with the Metro West project between the CBD and Westmead after The Bays station was included as one of the priority precincts.

Speaking at a lunch hosted by the Urban Development Institute of Australia on Wednesday the head of the NSW planning department, Kiersten Fishburn, said she wouldnt comment on the elephant in the room but referred to the accidental leak as a systems failure.
A data-driven plea by WA Police to state liquor licensing director Lanie Chopping for harsher booze restrictions in 25 remote and regional towns only saw the light of day because it was accidentally sent to the ABC.

In a letter sent in August, Deputy Commissioner Allan Adams requested Chopping look at towns across the Kimberly, Pilbara, Mid West and Goldfields with worse alcohol-related crime rates than Carnarvon, where restrictions were beefed up earlier this year.

In a letter sent in August, WA Police Deputy Commissioner Allan Adams requested Chopping look at towns across the Kimberly, Pilbara, Mid West and Goldfields for enhanced booze restrictions. Credit: WAtoday

The ABC and The West Australian requested the letter through freedom of information laws earlier this year, but both outlets were rejected access.

However, the ABCs rejection response accidentally contained Adams letter in full.
Despite having the backing of some of Australias largest and flashiest venture capital firms, Mentorloop co-founders Lucy Lloyd and Heidi Holmes have decided to  in their words  get off the VC hamster wheel.

The pair had raised about $1 million in capital from Blackbird Ventures, Rampersand and Tempus Partners (now known as Folklore), as well as a number of angel investors, to scale up their tech business which connects mentors with mentees via an online platform.

Mentorloop made a splash in the media and among investor circles when it raised the funding in 2017, but has been relatively silent for the past three years. In 2020 amid a tech downturn, its co-founders moved away from venture capital, focusing instead on profitability. They say theyre happier and significantly less stressed as a result, while the business has benefited from abandoning the growth at all costs mindset that permeates the venture capital sector.

Mentorloop co-founders Heidi Holmes and Lucy Lloyd.

Lloyd and Holmes are now calling for more start-ups to follow suit as the current tech wreck deepens, and as rising global interest rates and economic uncertainty continue to buffet Australian start-up funding.
One of the women forcibly strip-searched at Doha Airport says she believes gender is partly behind Qatar Airways refusal to apologise for forcing her to undergo invasive examinations on the tarmac.

The woman, who goes by the pseudonym Anna, was on a Qatar Airways flight bound for Sydney during the pandemic in October 2020 when she and other female passengers were forced by armed men dressed in black to disembark their flight.

Anna, a Sydney victim of a Qatar Airlines strip search after a newborn baby was found abandoned at the airport, is one of a number of women who are suing the airline. Credit: Janie Barrett

They were escorted into ambulances on the tarmac for physical examinations to determine if they had recently given birth. None of the victims gave their consent. Qatari authorities were hunting for the mother of a newborn baby found dumped in a rubbish bin at the airport. Childbirth outside of marriage is illegal in Qatar.

Anna was holding her then five-month-old baby during the search and attempted to explain that the fact she was physically holding her infant meant she could not have just given birth. But her protestations were ignored by the female nurse inside the dark ambulance.
We live in strange time, amidst natural disasters and wars, and champagne  they say  is once again about to run out. Were popping more bottles than ever. Demand is high and money flows more abundantly than even the sparkling French wine itself. For the third year in a row, the grand old champagne producers are floating the idea of a shortage. Their best customers, anxious and thirsty, hoard, speculate and run up prices.

The worlds biggest market is France, which consumes 49 million bottles a year. The United Kingdom is next, with 30 million; United States, with 17; Germany, with 15; Belgium and Japan, with 9. Over the past two years, Spain has gone from drinking 3 million bottles annually to 4.5 million, says Rafael Sandoval, sommelier at Madrid restaurant Coque. In contrast, supply has stayed more or less the same: 300 registered champagne producers and 15,000 family vineyards. Sandoval knows the market well. In his opinion, recent talk of shortages is a sales strategy.

The sommelier is referring to the wine-growing region of Champagne: 131 square miles of vineyards, likely the most expensive in the world. David Robledo, sommelier at the Relais & Chateaux restaurant groups eatery Robuchon Madrid, calculates that .004 square miles in this area could be worth $3.2 million. Three years ago, this price was around $1.1 million. The only wine that can rightly be called champagne is made with the grapes of one of its 319 villages. A 1927 law classified these vineyards and established the grand cru category as its highest rating. Only 17 villages covering 11.6 square miles have achieved this honor. This is where the worlds most expensive and hard-to-find bottles come from, the ones that are cellared and collected as financial assets.

Bottles in the Billecart-Salmon conservation cellars, in Mareuil-sur-Ay, in the Champagne-Ardenne region of France. Luciano Mortula (Alamy / Cordon

During the pandemic, the Interprofessional Committee of Champagne Wine (CIVC) sought to get ahead of a hypothetical market crash and cut production by 20%. But as we live in strange times, consumption took off. Between 2020 and 2021, sales increased by 64%. In 2022, records were broken in both global consumption with 326 million bottles  82 million more than in 2020  and sales, ringing in at 6 billion euros. While consumers went mad for bubbles, nature stepped in with a 2021 full of adverse weather and a resulting scarce harvest. Thus, we have reached the end of 2023 with limping stock and champagne having become a global object of desire.

Demand has grown and there is a certain cannibalization of production and distribution among the large brands. That has resulted in a market that is more centralized and less free, says Carlos Bosch, founder of El Portal gastrobar and the first Krug ambassador in Spain (there are only 80 in the world). Having been a brand ambassador since 2015, he is guaranteed a few bottles a year, but he says that large buyers speculate, turn off supply, allocate less bottles per country and run up prices.

Silvia Garcia, head sommelier of Madrids Mandarin Oriental Ritz, is in charge of the wine cellars that supply the hotels five restaurants. She says that she started to stockpile beginning in June in order to make sure there was ample champagne for the holiday season. We must not run out of Krug here, because it is the wine of choice for many customers. But its in short supply, and you have to go out looking to buy it from other places.

A bottle of champagne. Thinkstock

Carlos Bosch explains champagnes rising tide of success. Large brands like Dom Perignon, Krug and Ruinart are on everyones lips. Theres more consumption in a leisure context and its overtaken distilled liquors, these days its much more than a toasting wine. In Asia, theyve discovered champagne, which has benefited from an association with classic European luxury. People prefer to invest 70 euros in a bottle of champagne than on four cocktails, he says.

Some experts are fervently bidding on the worlds last few bottles of Salon. The champagne comes from the mythic cru Le Mesnil-sur-Ogers sole two-and-a-half acres of chardonnay, and from a single terroir, the Cote des Blancs, which was cultivated since 1905 by one man, Eugene-Amie Salon. At least, so goes the story of the site, property of the Laurent-Perrier group since 1989. In the cellars of the Ritz, Silvia has two of its finest vintages, 1982 and 1986. Every time I sell one it hurts my heart because when its out, we wont be able to get more, she says. The price of a bottle stands between $4,300 and $6,500.

Were one of the few markets in which there is no negotiation, says Sandoval. Everything is exclusive, the clientele is educated and demanding, a lot is bought as an investment, and no one is looking for an affordable champagne. In Coque, the most expensive sparklings are the ones that sell the best, says Sandoval, saying that the most valuable bottle in his cellar is a 2002 Krug, with a $4,300 value, a 1996 Salon and a few editions of Dom Perignon.

The Ritz sommelier has been surprised by the shifting rituals of champagne. A very young couple ordered a Krug. Then, in a hushed voice and after a lot of skirting the subject, they told her that they would drink it in a brandy snifter, with crushed ice and a Red Bull. Anathema? Sacrilege? I dont get paid to judge, only to bring happiness, she says. Champagne consumers are getting younger all the time. 15 years ago, people ordered it less and used it exclusively to toast. Now it can be paired with meat, fish and even a cocido [Spanish stew], she says. She particularly recommends this last pairing. David Robledo, the sommelier at Robuchon and  he confesses  an avid champagne consumer, agrees that the wine may be drank from the appetizer to dessert course. Carles Bosch points to its aspirational factor. Its an elitist beverage, but also has a lower alcohol percentage than a distillate, and that elevates its prestige because it feels good and hardly leaves a hangover.

Robledo says that in Champagne there are entire families who live on the sales of five to seven acres of a highly rated vineyard. The children and grandchildren of the winegrowers who once rented their lands to the larger producers have studied, traveled and now produce their own champagne. They are wines that vary widely, that have more personality, in which the land stands out much more than the cellar, he says.

The arrival of the singular sparkling wines that come from these vignerons has changed the market and has given rise to real cult products, expensive and impossible to find. All the experts consulted for this article mention the Selosse. This is the moniker of champagne from Jacques Selosses cellar, which has been managed by his son since 1974: nearly 15 acres of champagne mainly located in the village of Avize, and 2.2 acres of pinot noir. All of their vineyards are rated grand cru.

A bottle of Krug, along with a notebook that belonged to the winery's founder, Joseph Krug.

Florent Mercier is the founder of Champeron Paris, a business that has distributed some of these cult sparklings in Spain for a decade. Small artisanal cellars have expanded the range of tastes and smells, and have made the market more attractive. There are between 10,000 and 20,000 annual bottles for the entire world, and they are distributed by annual quotas established by the winery itself. Apart from Selosse, Mercier lists La Closerie and Frederic Savart among the most desired independent winemakers.

If Rafa Sandoval only had a few hours to live, hed go down to his cellar and open up a 1973 Dom Perignon Plenitude 3. David Robledo would prefer a 1966 Salon Cuvee Le Mesnil magnum. He doesnt have it in his cellar because it is almost sold out worldwide, but if he did, he would drink it with religious devotion. The sommelier is against using champagne flutes because they lose aromatic expression, and is likewise opposed to very cold wine, so he would celebrate life in a wide glass, always served above 44.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Carlos Bosch would uncork a Krug grande cuvee that has spent many years in a bottle. And Silvia Garcia, a 1982 Salon. Without a doubt, she says.

On a great occasion, all would toast with an antique. A priceless champagne, one of those that you hope to taste within a lifetime. Because, paradoxically, scarcity suits certain vintages of champagne quite well. There was never luxury in abundance, only vulgarity.

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At dawn on Sunday this beautiful celestial phenomenon appeared, with the masses making a thousand comments about its radiance. Despite the northern lights having been studied extensively, none of the astronomers have been able to specify the causes of their appearance. However, this time, there is no shortage of those who have said that it presaged the death of the dynasty of D. Amadeo and great gunpowder festivals in the next spring, said a brief from El Eco del Bruch on February 11, 1872. The text from the Carlist newspaper referred to a series of dawns seen the previous Sunday, 4 February. The editor took advantage of the impact it had on the people to attack Amadeo I, the king installed by the liberals. Now, 151 years later, the review of hundreds of historical records like this one has made it possible to estimate the intensity of the phenomenon that caused such a spectacle. The reviews authors have called it the Chapman-Silverman event, and, they say, it was the most intense ever recorded.

Between 9:00 and 10:00 Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) on February 3, 1872, a coronal mass ejection occurred from a set of sunspots. At 14:27 UTC the next day, a solar storm shook the Earths magnetic field. The incursion was such that it left the telegraph service of almost the entire planet out of service or with serious operating problems. The physicist Raoul-Pierre Pictet, recognized for his work on the liquefaction of gases, was in Cairo, Egypt, in February 1872 and wrote: I returned from the telegraph [office] where I collected the following information about the electrical phenomena that occurred yesterday afternoon ... it was difficult to communicate with Khartoum ... The devices were chattering on their own ... Ground currents prevented service and the employees were totally confused. Meanwhile, in the Popular Scientific Chronicle by the Spanish engineer Emilio Huelin an article reads: The disturbances that occurred in the telegraph lines were generally perceived at the same local time in Italy, France, Germany, and America.

Pictecs account from Egypt is one of the documents compiled by a group of researchers led by Hisashi Hayakawa, a scientist at Nagoya University, Japan, and veteran researcher Sam Silverman, who died before the results of his work were published. The Pictec text continues the story: Yesterday afternoon, the Cairo office received a dispatch asking what the large red glow that was seen on the horizon was and suspecting a large fire. The telegraph line does not continue further south, beyond Khartoum, but it is probable that this aurora was also seen as far as Gondokoro, at 5 north latitude. It is not strange that in almost all accounts an aurora is described in reddish tones. The color of the aurora depends on the elements such as oxygen, hydrogen, or nitrogen in the atmosphere with which the solar particles interact. That red shift helps confirm that the aurora was seen very close to the equator.

An impression of how the aurora was seen in Okazaki, Japan. The aurora borealis was seen at latitudes close to 10, in the Caribbean and the south of India, while the aurora australis was observed in Madagascar and Australia. Templo Shounji

Hayakawa and other scientists find it hard to believe that an aurora borealis descended as far as Gondokoro, in southern Sudan and almost five degrees from the equator. Nothing like this has ever been recorded. The Earth, spinning with its iron core, is a gigantic magnet that generates its own magnetic field. The magnetosphere protects the planet and all the life on it from solar wind radiation, but the shield is thicker closer to the equator. Therefore, under normal conditions, auroras only occur at the poles or the higher latitudes of the globe. But if a solar storm arrives with sufficient intensity, they can occur in mid-latitudes, in central Europe, North America, or central Asia. But for them to go beyond the Sahara they must be especially intense.

They were also seen in Spain [and Portugal], including in Cadiz, the Azores, and the Canary Islands, says Hayakawa, the first author to quantify what happened on February 4, 1872, in this research published in The Astrophysical Journal. In the Annals of Puerto de la Cruz (Tenerife), compiled by Jose Agustin Alvarez Rixo, from the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, you can read a brief line: February 4. The first night Aurora borealis was perceived to the north-northwest. The next days edition, the federal republican newspaper published in Barcelona, La Independencia, reported: Yesterday, around half past five, a beautiful northern lights appeared that caught the publics attention and in particular those knowlegeable about these phenomena. At first it formed an arc that extended (sic) from Northwest to Northeast, extending (sic) at times towards the zenith. If so, those auroras were not seen on the horizon (as happened in the Carrington event of 1859, which was one of the largest in history) but over the Spaniards heads.

Jose Ribeiro, a secondary education teacher at the Henrique Medina school in Esposende (Portugal) and co-author of the research, has compiled most of the Portuguese and Spanish records used by Hayakawa and Silverman. Although the majority limit themselves to collecting the phenomenon or using it to attack, as the Eco del Bruch journalist did, Ribeiro highlights that according to the newspaper articles, some people feared war or the end of the world. This could have contributed, he adds, to the fact that in October 1870 another great aurora borealis was observed that coincided with the Franco-Prussian War and the political instability that was experienced in Spain at that time. Shortly after, King Amadeo abdicated, the First Spanish Republic was proclaimed and the Carlist wars resumed.

Hayakawa and around twenty experts on these events have relied on these chronicles to make a map of how far the auroras of the Chapman-Silverman event reached. The logic behind this is that, the closer to the equator it was observed, the greater its intensity must have been. If the northern lights were seen in Tobago in the Caribbean, Sudan, and southern India, and the southern lights were seen as far north as Madagascar and Australia, the geomagnetic storm must have been one of the most intense. But the definitive proof must be provided by the observatories that monitor the sun and the magnetic fields scattered across the planet. There werent as many in the 19th century as there are today, which made the search more difficult. But in 1872 there was one in Colaba, across the causeway from Bombay (Mumbai), India, set up decades earlier by the British. The magnetogram it recorded from that impact shows a Dst (storm disturbance time) value of  834 nanoteslas (nT). This value is almost double that recorded by the storm of February 1989, the most intense aurora in the electronic era. Until now, the two largest ever recorded were the Carrington event, in 1859, and the New York Central Station event, in 1921, named for the impact it had on New York City. The Chapman-Silverman event had an even lower Dst value. This event was at least comparable or even more extreme than the Carrington storm of 1859, Hayakawa maintains.

Victor Manuel Sanchez is a professor of Earth Physics at the University of Exremadura and has carried out research on dozens of historical geomagnetic storms. Regarding the Dst index, he explains that it measures the disturbance in the magnetosphere: When a solar intrusion occurs, there is a depression in the magnetic field. Sanchez adds that currently, the Dst index is measured using four observatories as close as possible to the equator; in 1872, they only had the Colaba magnetogram. This leads the scientist to consider it risky to affirm that the Chapman-Silverman was larger than the Carrington, but it is in the same order of magnitude, he concedes. However, both he and Hayakawa, with whom he has worked on several occasions, concur that the auroras were observed further towards the equator than those produced during the Carrington event.

The map shows the locations from which the aurora borealis was seen to the north of the equator and aurora australis to the south, according to historical chronicles and records. Hayakawa et al.

The only electromagnetic-based technology that humans had invented in both 1859 and 1872 was the telegraph. Electric lighting, telephone, radio networks, and electronics were yet to come. Not to mention television, satellites, and the internet. A storm as intense as those would disrupt power grids, communications systems, and satellite operations. As they now form the basic infrastructure of our civilization, our lives could become a little more uncomfortable than usual, Hayakawa recalls. Earlier this year, a minor geomagnetic storm disabled about forty Starlink satellites [Elon Musks constellation], the Chapman-Silverman storm was at least one order of magnitude larger than the latter, the Japanese scientist says.

The expert in space meteorology from the University of Alcala de Henares, Maria Elena Saiz, details what happens during an event of this nature: Three types of things occur in a solar storm. One is electromagnetic radiation, which takes between seven and eight minutes to reach the Earth. Its impact, in the ionosphere, affects radio waves, which use this layer to propagate. Another element is solar energetic particles. When the flare occurs, one of its products are very energetic particles. They are different from the solar wind constantly blowing from the star. And then there are what we call coronal mass ejections. In addition to the flare, solar plasma is expelled and that is what impacts the Earths magnetosphere, sending particles into the magnetosphere. A document from NOAA, the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, estimated the amount of plasma ejected during a storm of this class at more than one billion tons.

When the magnetic field changes and the faster it changes, the more significant the effect is, says Saiz. During the storm, what we call geomagnetically induced currents are produced and the entire Earth is a conductor, she explains. These currents can enter through the neutrals of all types of electrical transformers. There are more harmonics, instabilities occur in the system and since it is a connected network, it is transferred to high voltage stations and substations. At a given moment, they may be overwhelmed. Beyond electricity (although almost everything depends on whether there is a current) there would be problems in communications, the propagation of radio waves, and connections to satellites. And beyond humans, there is increasing evidence of the impact of these events on animal life, especially in species that use the magnetic field to orient themselves, such as birds or cetaceans. In fact, some studies have already linked events such as Chapman-Silverman with some of the strandings of whales and dolphins.

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The Republicans have found a new battering ram to attack the Democrats: antisemitism. On Tuesday, the Education Committee of the Republican-controlled House held a hearing with the heads of Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, and MIT to discuss the cases of antisemitism recorded on university campuses in the wake of Israels offensive against Gaza. The hearing opened with videos of pro-Palestinian protests on campus, with students chanting slogans such as intifada, intifada, long live the intifada.

The hearing was aimed at learning how universities were responding to these cases, and what measures they were adopting to prevent harassment and threats, and to ensure a safe environment for Jewish and Israeli students  incidents against Arab or Muslim students were only mentioned in passing. But the Republicans turned the hearing into an inquisition, asking the rectors questions about whether they believed in Israels right to existence and how many conservative professors were part of the faculty.

The hearing was also attended by Pamela Nadell, professor of history and Jewish studies at American University, who traced the rise of antisemitism in the United States to the Donald Trump administration. She argued that the Republicans ambivalent response to the racist rally in Charlottesville in 2017, when protesters chanted Jews will not replace us, was a turning point that sparked a rise in antisemitism.

Nadell also praised the White Houses national strategy against antisemitism, which was adopted in May, and called for a similar plan to tackle Islamophobia. Several Republicans in the committee opposed the equation of antisemitism and Islamophobia.

The House hearing comes as Israels offensive against Hamas in Gaza continues to fuel tensions in the United States, even leading to physical attacks, such as the shooting of three students of Palestinian origin from Brown University over Thanksgiving. For the Republicans, the tension has served to open a new front of their culture war against the Democrats.

At Tuesdays hearing, the Republicans took special aim at Claudine Gay, the president of Harvard University, where around 30 student groups published a letter blaming the Hamas attack on Israel. Gay hesitated at first to condemn the message, prompting accusations that the university was neglecting its Jewish students. The university was also in the spotlight as it is under investigation for an alleged case of discrimination. Gay did not wish to comment on the case as it is an open investigation.

But while Gay may have been the main target, the Republicans accused all three university heads of not doing enough to stop antisemitism. Institutional antisemitism and hate are among the poisoned fruits of your institutions cultures, House Education and Workforce Chair Virginia Foxx told the presidents.

Do you have the courage to truly confront and condemn the ideology driving antisemitism, or will you offer weak blame-shifting excuses, and yet another responsibility-dodging task force? Thats ultimately the most important question for you to confront in this hearing, Foxx said.

The free exchange of ideas is the foundation upon which Harvard is built, said Gay. Antisemitism is a symptom of ignorance. And the cure for ignorance is knowledge. Harvard must model what it means to preserve free expression while combating prejudice and preserving the security of our community, she added.

Republican Michelle Steel asked the university presidents about unreported money from Middle Eastern donors, but the three denied the allegations.

The three university presidents condemned the Hamas attack and the cases of antisemitism recorded on campus. They also outlined a series of measures to address the issue, such as greater education and strengthening mental health care services. But the hearing is another setback for the universities, with donors withdrawing funding from Harvard and Pennsylvania over what they consider the colleges insufficient efforts to tackle antisemitism.

Antisemitism, however, was already on the rise before the war in Gaza. According to the FBI, antisemitic hate crimes increased 25% from 2021 to 2022. American Jews make up 2.4% of the population, but are victims of 63% of religiously motivated hate crimes, according to the FBI. Tuesdays hearing has only led to more criticism, while Republicans continue their efforts to cut funding to the Office of Civil Rights, which deals with cases of discrimination such as antisemitism.

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Joe Biden once again considers stopping Donald Trump as his mission in life. Preventing the Republican from winning a second term in the White House was his main reason for entering the race four years ago. Biden defeated Trump, but all signs indicate that the showdown will be repeated for the 2024 presidential election. And that the presidents reason for running is the same. Weve got to get it done, not because of me... If Trump wasnt running, Im not sure Id be running. We cannot let him win, Biden said on Tuesday at a fundraising event in Weston, Massachusetts.

In the 2020 presidential election campaign, Biden defined himself as a transitional candidate. The president has just turned 81 and will be 86 by the time he ends a hypothetical second term. Due to his age, more importance was given to who he chose as his vice president, a role that eventually was given to Kamala Harris. There was speculation that whoever held that position would run for president in 2024, once Trump had disappeared from the political scene and the political polarization had eased.

Trump, however, not only continues to argue that the 2020 elections were stolen from him, but he has also managed to convince the vast majority of Republican voters of these false allegations. Trump is the favorite to win the Republican primaries and is also leading the polls for the presidential elections. Meanwhile, Kamala Harris has not won over voters, and Biden believes that he is once again the person with the best chance of defeating Trump. I may not be the only one, but I know him well and I know the danger he presents to our democracy, Biden said in April at a White House press conference.

When the Democrats did better than expected in the November 2022 midterm elections, Biden had still not confirmed that he would run for re-election. He said that he planned to make the decision in early 2023, and even then stressed the importance of stopping Trump from winning a second term.

Since the start of his re-election campaign, Biden has constantly returned to this message. But it was not until Tuesday that he expressly stated that he may not have run for a second term if it were not for Trump. Were always going to defend, protect and fight for democracy, he said on Tuesday. Thats why Im running. Biden later clarified that he would not withdraw his candidacy even if his rival did.

I dont think anyone doubts democracy is more at risk in 2024 than it was in 2020. And I mean that. Because this time were running against an election denier-in-chief, Biden told campaign donors on Tuesday. Lets be clear about the side  whats at stake in 2024: Donald Trump and his MAGA Republicans are determined to destroy American democracy. And that, again, is not hyperbole. Thats a fact. The former president makes no bones about it. Dont take my word for it. Just listen to what he has to say. To his supporters, he says, 2024 is the final battle. He goes on to say, I am your retribution. And he talks about being part of a failing nation. Either they win or we win. If they win, we no longer have a country. When did you ever hear a president of the United States say any of those things  speak anything like that?

Trumps not even hiding the ball anymore, Biden told a separate campaign event in Boston. Hes telling us exactly what he wants to do. Hes making no bones about it.

Trump has openly vowed to go after his political rivals if he returns to the White House in retaliation for the indictments brought against him. Yeah. If they do this and theyve already done it, but if they want to follow through on this, yeah, it could certainly happen in reverse, he said in an interview with Univision in November. What theyve done is theyve released the genie out of the box, he continued. They have done something that allows the next party, I mean, if somebody  if I happen to be president and I see somebody whos doing well and beating me very badly, I say, Go down and indict them.

Nazi rhetoric

Trump has embraced an increasingly violent and authoritarian rhetoric. He has referred to his political rivals as vermin that must be eradicated and also claimed that undocumented immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country  expressions with overtones of Nazi Germany or Fascist Italy, as historians have made clear. Trump has also attacked judges and prosecutors, and suggested that his one-time chief of staff Mark Miley should be executed. He has also said that he supports shooting looters.

In Tuesdays speech to campaign donors, Biden accused his predecessor of using the language of Nazis. Now his supporters are saying he should invoke the Insurrection Act to use the military [...] domestically to political opponents and in American cities. If hes returned to office, he said he was going to go after all those who oppose him, root out when he called the vermin in America  not a word often used except in Nazi Germany  a specific phrase with a specific meaning. And it echoes the language heard out of Germany in the 1930s, he said.

Trump strikes back

Trump, aware that these attacks hurt his image, tried to turn the tables last weekend. Joe Biden is not the defender of American democracy. Joe Biden is the destroyer of American democracy, he said at an event in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Hes been weaponizing government against his political opponents like a Third World political tyrant.

Biden, however, continues to insist that the real threat to American democracy is Trump. He didnt even show up at my inauguration. I cant say it disappointed me, but he didnt, he joked at three different campaign events on Tuesday. My guess is he wont show up at my next inauguration either, he added to the applause of the public.

Biden is not the only one warning about the risk posed by Trump. Former Republican congresswoman Liz Cheney has just published her book Oath and Honor, which puts forward the same message. As a nation, we can endure damaging policies for a four-year term. But we cannot survive a president willing to terminate our Constitution, the Wyoming Republican writes, warning that for the first time in history the United States is at risk of drifting towards a dictatorial regime.

On Friday, Biden will have another fundraising event at the home of former U.S. ambassador to Spain, James Costos, and his partner, Michael Smith, a famous interior designer who decorated the White House for president Barack Obama. Biden hopes to raise millions of dollars in his first campaign act with Hollywood personalities after the end of the screenwriters and actors strike. Musician Lenny Kravitz is scheduled to perform. Director Steven Spielberg and his wife, Kate Capshaw, who starred in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, are among the hosts of the event, as are recording industry mogul David Geffen, Scandal showrunner Shonda Rhimes and This is Spinal Tap director Rob Reiner, according to an invitation obtained by The Associated Press. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif, is also a co-host. Barbra Streisand is set to attend.

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It was more than 50 days before the UN decided to investigate sexual violence committed by Hamas, despite there being no shortage of evidence. Talking to investigators, witnesses and lawyers reveals the full scale of the horror. Warning: This report contains disturbing accounts of extreme violence.

The nineteen-year-old Naama Levy is abducted in the Gaza Strip on 7 October

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German version

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The first indications of sexual violence started circulating on 7 October, the day of the massacre, when thousands of terrorists from the Gaza Strip invaded Israeli towns and began livestreaming bloodshed and torture, sometimes from their victims mobile phones. Hamas and other groups posted thousands of video clips on Telegram and other channels.

One shows a young woman being abducted to Gaza in the back of a Jeep, surrounded by men. Her hands are tied behind her back, the crotch of her trousers is soaked in blood.

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Another shows Shani Louk, a 22-year-old German-Israeli woman now known to have been murdered. She was partying at the Nova Peace Festival when the terrorists attacked. A photo circulating on social media shows her half-naked, bloodied body in the back of a pickup truck, being paraded to a jubilant crowd in Gaza by her abductors.

A recording by a terrorist still in Israel shows two Hamas men arguing over a female hostage. One of them clearly wants to shoot her; the other stops him. The woman is a reward, he says in Arabic.

7 October is likely to go down in history as the most-filmed crime ever. Yet Israel faces one of the most difficult challenges in its history: its biggest criminal investigation into sexual and gender-based violence to date  and the struggle to get it internationally recognized.

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It is 6.30 a.m. in New York when WELT AM SONNTAG finally reaches Cochav Elkayam-Levy by telephone. Elkayam-Levy, 39, is an Israeli legal expert at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, specializing in international law, gender and human rights. She has barely slept for weeks, with one appointment after another.

Cochav Elkayam-Levy Quelle: Martine Hami

When we speak, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has just issued his first statement: There are numerous accounts of sexual violence during the abhorrent acts of terror by Hamas on 7 October that must be vigorously investigated and prosecuted.

Elkayam-Levy sounds relieved, though her frustration at his conspicuously long silence remains. That is a really important statement from Guterres, she says. I just wish he had made it sooner, rather than waiting more than 50 days.

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Israeli womens rights activists like Cochav Elkayam-Levy and Ruth Halperin-Kaddari, professor of law at Bar-Ilan University and for twelve years a member of the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), have spent weeks researching evidence of sexual violence, writing to UN bodies, speaking to ambassadors and giving presentations. Many of those they contacted have not even replied, they say.

Ruth Halperin-Kaddari Quelle: Rami Zarnegar

When women in Ukraine became victims of sexual violence in Russias war of aggression, UN Women swiftly called for a comprehensive investigation. I see a double standard here, says Halperin-Kaddari, 57. She is boarding a plane in Geneva, where she has been reporting to UN representatives.

Like Elkayam-Levy, those representatives emphasize the enormous suffering of Palestinian women and children in the war. I think many organizations and the global Left find it difficult to accept that Palestinians are not just victims and that their side is a terrible aggressor, says Halperin-Kaddari. They just cant move beyond always seeing Israel as the oppressor and the Palestinians as the ultimate victim.

Elkayam-Levy shares this concern about the muted response to the crimes committed by Hamas: The silence is fuelling hatred around the world because people dont believe us and accuse us of deception. She has set up a team of 15 lawyers, criminologists and researchers to create a database of documentation and witness statements. She stresses that they are not working for the Israeli government.

The material seen by WELT AM SONNTAG is consistent with the statements and documentation collated by investigators.

>> Warning: The following accounts contain graphic descriptions of extreme violence. Readers who may find this too disturbing should stop reading now.<<

A policeman with Unit 443, which is responsible for the Israeli investigation, reads out the statement of a survivor from the Nova festival: It started with a short-haired girl. I saw her on her knees, begging. A terrorist was standing over her and spat in her face. I realized he was holding a mobile phone, taking photos, and then he shot her in the head. They brought all the women to the place where we were hiding. Womens heads, even. In one case someone jumped on a girl and raped her, and afterwards she was passed from man to man. They were all dressed as soldiers. I heard shouting in Arabic. The girl they were raping was still alive, she was standing on her feet and was bleeding from her back. I remember the terrorist pulling her hair, the woman wasnt dressed, he cut her breasts off and threw them onto the ground, he was playing with them, and the men were still dragging her along. I remember someone penetrating her, then shooting her in the head. He didnt even pull his trousers up. He shot her in the head with his trousers down.

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A report by Physicians for Human Rights, an organization known for its critical stance towards the Israeli government, quotes a male survivor who says he hid in a bush: The terrorists, people from Gaza, were raping girls. And after theyd raped them, they murdered them, killed them with knives  They were laughing. They were laughing the whole time. I cant get that out of my head, the way they were laughing in that situation.

Rami Schmuel, one of the organizers of the Nova music festival, said, We found naked women, theyd been stripped and their legs were wide apart.

A paramedic who went into one of the houses in the Beeri kibbutz near the border with the Gaza Strip told a number of media outlets, I saw two girls lying there, one on the bed, the other on the floor, in their own bedroom. And the girl on the floor, a teenager, maybe 14 or 15 years old, was lying on her front, her trousers had been pulled down and she was half naked, her legs splayed, wide apart, and there was semen on her back. Someone had brutally raped her and then executed her immediately afterwards.

Israeli forces recover the bodies of Israeli residents from a destroyed house in Kfar Aza Quelle: dpa

First responder Haim Otzmagin told the Knesset what he saw in another house in the devastated kibbutz: We approach the entrance to the room  We start slowly freeing a womans body. A naked body. A naked woman with a pointed object stuck in her genitals. I saw it with my own eyes. I  [His voice breaks. Ed.]  I took photos of it on my mobile. Its not fake news, I saw it with my own eyes. I saw heads that had been cut off. I saw eleven dead terrorists, piled on top of each other. Their bodies looked to be whole. But right next to them were the heads of three dead children. I picked them up. I photographed them. And thats just one of many stories.

Otzmagin has shown his photographs to French television. Investigators have given WELT AM SONNTAG photographs of a document said to have been found on one of the terrorists. It lists 43 words and sentences in Arabic, and how to say them in Hebrew. They include: Take your trousers off and Take your clothes off, both addressed to a male.

Eyewitnesses, first responders and forensic scientists all report having seen the naked corpses of both women and men whose limbs and genitals had been hacked off. Forensic scientists confirm having examined women and children showing clear signs of rape.

A spokeswoman for the Israeli police says the investigations are still at a very early stage but that they have already taken more than 1500 witness statements and are also examining more than 10,000 videos. In published recordings of interrogations, captured terrorists admit having intended to rape women. Critics argue that these statements could have been obtained under torture.

Relatives mourn the victims of the Nova Festival, where Hamas murdered and raped Quelle: REUTERS

Law professor Ruth Halperin-Kaddari also says she has seen statements saying they had been instructed to capture, torture, murder and rape. Even though the attackers had admitted that this went against Islam, they said there was a religious decree, a fatwa, that allowed them to do it. WELT AM SONNTAG put these allegations to a Hamas spokesperson but received no response.

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Investigators and witnesses who have spoken to WELT AM SONNTAG fear that the exact picture of what happened on 7 October will remain forever incomplete. In some places the terrorist attack went on for several days, with first responders coming under fire. This meant they had to focus on recovering bodies and were unable to collect evidence systematically. Tests to detect foreign DNA in samples of body fluids, hair or pieces of clothing must be carried out within 48 hours, but in many cases this was clearly impossible.

The majority of the women allegedly raped by the terrorists were subsequently murdered by them. Survivors of the massacre have had to be hospitalized. One therapist working with the witnesses says they are too broken to talk. Others may never find the strength to speak about what they saw and experienced.

Cochav Elkayam-Levy, Ruth Halperin-Kaddari and Yael Vias Gvirsman, lawyer for the family of Shani Louk, all say it is already clear that the attacks were systematic. They want to lend their own voices to the women who are unable to speak for themselves.
Ballina Soroptimists, with the support of the local community, have highlighted the UN Orange the World campaign, which calls for the elimination of violence against women.

November 25th marked the UN International Day of the elimination of violence against women and the start of 16 days of activism against gender violence, ending on December 10.

The local Soroptimists branch have changed the colour of one of the benches along the River Moy to orange and have erected orange banners alongside to highlight the event.

The colour orange symbolises a brighter future, free of violence, it also serves as a means of demonstrating solidarity in eliminating all forms of violence, explains Ballina Soroptimist club president Eileen Diamond.

"The simple message to women is You are not alone."

A permanent plaque has been erected on the wall nearby with a helpline number. The group have also distributed information cards throughout the town.

Two orange floral arrangements are on display in St Muredachs Cathedral and St Michaels Church in remembrance of all those who have suffered and died as a result of domestic violence. There is also an orange window display in Ballina Community Centre. A painting by Foxford-based artist Harry Feeney promoting the campaign is also on display upstairs in Ballina Library with all helpline contact details displayed beside it.

We want to thank Declan Turnbull from Ballina MD for his support and assistance and also Hugh Ginty, Ginty Monumental Sculptures for their generosity. Our thanks also to St Muredachs Cathedral, St Michaels Church and Ballina Library for their support, said Ms Diamond.
The Republican aspirants to the White House will face each other again Wednesday in the fourth primary debate. Former president Donald Trump, the front-runner in the polls among GOP voters, will again miss the appointment in the belief that the best way to preserve his advantage is to remain on the sidelines. In the first debate in August there were eight candidates, but on this occasion the field has been reduced to four. Among them are two  the governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, and the former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and former governor of South Carolina, Nikki Haley  who are competing to provide an alternative to Trump.

The trajectories of the two candidates have played out in reverse. DeSantis, 45, was on Trumps heels in voting intention before he officially entered the campaign. However, since then, he has seen his support crumble. He launched his candidacy in a failed Twitter interview hosted by Elon Musk, and has since failed to grasp the tone and message of the campaign. He dithered over whether to attack Trump as the former president mocked him. His strategy for the debates was leaked, which he was then unable to implement. And his campaign has suffered from management problems. Some big donors have begun to turn their backs on DeSantis and his standing in the polls has plummeted from a high of around 40% to 13%, according to the average of large polls calculated by FiveThirtyEight. Trump is currently polling at 59% in voter intention.

Haley, by contrast, is experiencing an upsurge in her campaign. The 51-year-old recently won the endorsement of Americans for Prosperity Action, the powerful and influential conservative network founded by the billionaire Koch brothers. She shone in previous debates, where she displayed her expertise in international politics, her willingness to tackle major reforms, and a firm but moderate tone. Her clashes with 38-year-old businessman Vivek Ramaswamy have brought out her character. Polls point to Haley as the candidate who would have the best chance of ensuring a Republican victory over Joe Biden in the November 5, 2024 presidential election, but for that to happen she would first have to defeat Trump in the primaries. Among Republican voters, Haleys voting intention has risen to 10.5% and in some polls she is already ahead of DeSantis. Overtaking him would give Haley a huge boost when the moment of truth arrives.

The Iowa caucuses on January 15 and the New Hampshire primary on January 23 decide only 62 of the nearly 2,500 delegates who will select the Republican nominee at the GOP convention in July 2024. However, because they open the process, the outcome is often significant.

DeSantis has the governors support in Iowa and has visited each and every county in the state. Much of his gamble was on emerging from the caucuses as a viable alternative to Trump. Now, however, Haley is gathering pace and there is a significant chance that the Florida governor will come in third rather than first in Iowa. Haley is already ahead in the polls in New Hampshire and in February she will play at home in South Carolina. Her candidacy appeals to moderate Republican voters, who remain unconvinced by Trump.

Testing ground for Haley

For Haley, Wednesdays debate will serve as a testing ground for her candidacy. With fewer aspirants on stage, there will be more time for each of the participants to speak. She has taken advantage of this on previous occasions, but she needs to consolidate that trend if her campaign is ultimately to aspire to anything more than a battle for second place.

The other two participants in the debate in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, which will be broadcast on the NewsMax network, are Ramaswamy  who was the surprise package in the first eight-way matchup in Milwaukee in August but has since deflated  and former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, who has never stood a chance with his openly anti-Trump discourse and whose withdrawal could benefit Haley.

The other four participants from the first debate have fallen by the wayside. Former vice president Mike Pence was the first to announce his withdrawal, followed by Tim Scott, the only Black senator in the Republican Party. This week Doug Burgum, governor of North Dakota, threw in the towel. Without having participated in the debates for lack of sufficient support, Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, radio host Larry Elder, businessman Perry Johnson and former Texas congressman Will Hurd, whose campaigns never even got off the ground, have also stepped aside. Former Arkansas governor Asa Hutchinson, who did enter the first debate but whose role is less than marginal, has not yet formally ended his candidacy.

The fourth debate is another fantastic opportunity for our Republican candidates to share our winning agenda with the American people, Ronna McDaniel, chairwoman of the Republican National Committee, said in a statement Monday. The debates had been a defining moment in the primary race in each election cycle, but with Trump boycotting them this year, they have lost prominence. The Republican Party is considering changing the rules and allowing debates on the eve of the primaries that are not organized by the party itself, which until now required exclusivity from the candidates, so that there are more events in the days leading up to the primaries.

While Wednesdays debate is being held, Trump will participate in fundraising events in Florida.

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A spectacular double-header of concerts is to take place in Foxford next weekend.

On Saturday, in the Church of Ireland, BellaCapella Choir together with the Westport Town Hall Choir will perform by candlelight, all for the cause of raising funds towards restoration work at the church. Admission at the door is 20 and it will be followed by a mulled wine and mince pie reception in Foxfords social services building.

The concert gets underway at 7.30pm.

Then, on Sunday, theres a wonderfully festive evening in store at St Michaels Church in Foxford as the Foxford Brass and Reed Band performs its annual Christmas concert. Theres an extra treat in store this year however, as joining the band this year will be traditional musicians from CCE Admiral Brown with whom the Brass and Reed band collaborated so brilliantly at this years Foxford Traditional Weekend.

Come along to hear all the Christmas favourites. Admission is free but all donations towards Foxford Brass and Reed Band will be gratefully accepted. The concert gets underway at 6pm.
The Claremorris to Athenry railway line is set to be included in the Trans-European Transport Network (Ten-T) as part of Ireland's comprehensive network.

The Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) regulation of the EU defines an infrastructure network that encompasses roads, railways, ports, and airports. Projects intended for inclusion in this comprehensive network are required to be completed by 2050. Revised Ten-T network maps are set to be agreed soon with negotiations between the EU institutions in their final stages.

Mayo Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon welcomed the proposed inclusion of the Claremorris to Athenry line in Ireland's section of the Trans-European Transport (Ten-T) comprehensive network.

Deputy Dillon said the decision by Cabinet to approve the addition of the Claremorris to Athenry route is a significant step in reinstating the Western Rail Corridor (WRC) for rail freight and commuter services.

"I've expressed my concerns about the delays in releasing the All-Island Strategic Rail Review due to difficulties in re-establishing institutions in Northern Ireland," Deputy Dillon said. "I'm pleased to report that yesterday, Ministers reached an agreement to incorporate the proposed Claremorris to Athenry and Waterford to Rosslare routes into Ireland's comprehensive network.

"The Government and Minister Ryan's ambition to re-establish rail links from Waterford to Rosslare and Claremorris in Mayo to Athenry in Galway, creating a rail line from Ballina to Wexford, holds great potential. While inclusion in the European network offers opportunities for EU funding, it doesn't guarantee automatic entitlement.

"The negotiations within the Ten-T network are in their final stages, and the revised network maps for the EU are expected to be agreed upon soon."
Allentown, PA (18103)

Today

Partly sunny and pleasant; still a bit of a breeze, from the southwest 10-15mph with gusts to 20mph..

Tonight

Partly to mostly clear and seasonably cold.
MUHLENBERG TWP., Pa. - Berks County's tourism bureau is holding a food drive for a local food bank.

Pennsylvania's Americana Region is holding the drive through Dec. 20.

Anyone who donates five or more items will get a T-shirt while supplies last.

Officials recommend non-perishable items like cereals, grains, pasta, and canned goods.

The office is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

It's in Muhlenberg Township.
READING, Pa - Veterinarians are continuing to understand illness in dogs.

"I was kind of perplexed, just like the average pet owner, because it's just this headline of mystery respiratory illness, and as I'm learning more about it, it's still kind of a head-scratcher, because we still don't know what the pathogen could be," said Alicia Simoneau, the chief veterinary officer at Humane Pennsylvania in Reading.

Symptoms of the respiratory illness in dogs include coughing, sneezing, nasal or eye discharge and lethargy.

"The experts I've been researching seem to think there's not a whole lot of evidence that this is a new pathogen," Simoneau said.

Veterinarians across the country don't have large, government-funded entities, like the CDC, that focus solely on animal illnesses.

"A lot of times, general practitioners depend on our local vet schools because they tend to do more of the research and have more of the fundings, and a lot of them have diagnostic labs," Simoneau explained.

Vets also often have to share information among themselves to gain better insight into what may be making an animal sick.

"A lot of Facebook and social media is how vets stay in contact from different parts of the country, and so that's how I've been hearing about it, pretty much on social media," she said.

There's still skepticism as to whether this isn't along the lines of a standard sickness or something new, as veterinarians continue to do their research.

"It seems like in Pennsylvania, the risk isn't high, New England, Florida," said Simoneau. "The West Coast and Colorado seem to be the hot points."

Simoneau said she recommends that if you're dog is ill, to seek veterinary help and keep the dog away from other dogs.
BETHLEHEM TWP., Pa. - The Aaron's rent-to-own store at the Bethlehem Square Shopping Center closed last month, and its operations have merged into a south Allentown location.

The Bethlehem Township space has been cleared out, and customers are now being served at the chain's 1841 S. Fourth St., Allentown, store.

Aaron's, a publicly traded company with about 1,300 locations in 47 U.S. states and Canada, allows customers to make payments over time for furniture, electronics and appliances.

The Atlanta-based chain also works with customers who do not have great credit: "Aaron's offers approvals when other stores won't," according to the company website.

The Aaron's at Bethlehem Square was in a corner spot, adjacent to Walmart. On the other side of Aaron's is a vacant spot that used to be a Subway. The sandwich chain closed earlier.

Aaron's had a long run in Bethlehem. In 2011, a city man won a Toyota hybrid vehicle through a contest at the local store, according to a company press release.

In October, Aaron's Co. reported third-quarter revenue of $525.7 million, down 11.4% from the year-ago quarter.

Aaron's was founded in 1955 and has been publicly traded since 1982.

Shares in Aaron's are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol AAN. At 12:17 p.m. Wednesday, shares were trading at $10.22. At that price, the company has a market capitalization of about $309 million.
BETHLEHEM, Pa.  Bethlehem City Council voted Tuesday night to adopt an ordinance that will increase sewer rates by 8% in 2024.

Edward Boscola, director of water and sewer resources, proposed the rate increase in September. It will raise the average residential sewer bill by about $24 per year.

Several senior citizens at the meeting on Tuesday criticized any increase because of living on fixed incomes.

Councilwoman Grace Crampsie Smith said she definitely heard all of the concerns.

"We had a long meeting with Mr. Boscola regarding this increase to try to get a better handle on the need for it," Crampsie Smith said.

"During that meeting, we did talk about looking at a rate study in the future to make sure that we can avoid any further rate increases unless absolutely necessary," she said, "and to see if we can do anything to be equitable for both the city residents as well as those outside of the city that receive water and sewer services."

Council President Michael G. Colon said council does not raise fees without thought.

"Our sewer department and our water department operate on user fees," Colon explained. "We've been fortunate to not have had to raise the sewer rates since 2020."

"The (sewer) fund sees an increase in the cost of providing infrastructure and in personnel and labor costs, and has in the past at times had to borrow money," he said.

"At the end of the day, it comes down to, in my opinion, a more responsible way of conducting business and looking at closing budget gaps without more borrowing or limits to the operations," Colon added.

Mayor J. William Reynolds reminded council that the sewer infrastructure is old.

"We know that in the next five to 10 years, you're looking at millions of dollars in infrastructure needs," Reynolds said. "The question then becomes, what's the best way to be able to get that revenue?"

Public hearing for Walnut Street Garage zoning set for Feb. 6 The City of Bethlehem's zoning map could be revised to accommodate changes related to a new Walnut Street Garage.

In other business, council set Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. as the date and time for a public hearing on a proposed amendment to the city zoning map, involving the Walnut Street Garage.
BETHLEHEM, Pa. - Christmas is arriving early for a leading Lehigh Valley arts institution and really, it's a gift to many of our friends and neighbors.

The state is supplying ArtsQuest with a big grant to help people enjoy the arts even more than before.

"Imagine being visually impaired, and be able to walk around the gallery, and, you know, see the art, through other's words," said Rick Vilello, Deputy Secretary for Community Affairs and Development, with the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.

ArtsQuest announced that they are receiving a state grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. The $82,500 grant comes from the state's Neighborhood Assistance Program, otherwise known as "NAP."

"This grant today is going to allow more people to get helped, as we always say, is like, the goal is not to feel good about helping people. It's to help people," said Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds.

The goals of the NAP are to promote collaboration and participation in the community and assist distressed low-income populations.

ArtsQuest said the money will allow them to provide accommodations for 900 participants with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental impairments.

"To have people decide to move here, raise a family here, with one in four adults having a disability. We're not talking about leaving out one or two people," said Kassie Hilgert, President & CEO, ArtsQuest. "That's a significant part of the population in addition to underrepresented communities."

Funding will also be used for inclusion zones and sensory rooms that we got a tour of in the Banana Factory, amid other existing and current renovations.

"The education that goes on in these buildings, the investment in, you know, projects, the investment in the arts, makes a difference," said Vilello.

Organizers said they are hopeful that with the new cultural center renovations in sight, they can expand these newly-funded activities even outside of SteelStacks and through the region.
KYODO NEWS - Dec 6, 2023 - 10:05 | All

Episode 23: Youngest female mayor

What would you do as the elected leader of a community?

Three Kyodo News journalists -- Yamaguchi-san, Eduardo and Toma -- talk about Shoko Kawata, who became Japan's youngest female mayor at 33 years old in Yawata, Kyoto Prefecture. Listen as they discuss Japan's gender gap in politics compared to other nations and talk about why it appears unlikely to improve.

Article mentioned in the podcast:

Ex-lawmaker secretary becomes Japan's youngest female mayor at 33

Kyodo News presents a bilingual podcast for English learners about the ins and outs of news writing and how to translate tricky Japanese phrases into English. Have fun listening to journalists discuss recent articles as they occasionally go off on unrelated tangents.

More Podcast episodes:

Podcast [English World] Episode 21: Legend of Zelda

Podcast [English World] Episode 20: Hay fever

Podcast [English World] Episode 19: A subdued Halloween
Northampton County will offer five more sessions on how to administer Narcan and detect symptoms of an overdose in January and February.



Narcan is a nasal spray that can save the life of someone who has overdosed. The training for county employees and residents is part of Northampton County's "Fake is Real" campaign to spread awareness of fentanyl, a narcotic that can be deadly in small doses.



Fentanyl is a painkiller that is sometimes used to make fake prescription drugs sold over social media and e-commerce websites.



"Education and training are the first steps in fighting against substance abuse and addiction," County Executive Lamont G. McClure said in a statement.



The training will teach participants to administer Narcan. They will also learn about opioids, the signs of abuse and overdose, and what resources are available to fight addiction. Each will receive a free Narcan kit.



Sessions will be held Jan. 11 at 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. at the county Department of Human Services building, 2801 Emrick Blvd., Bethlehem Township; Jan. 18 at 2 p.m. at the Northampton County Courthouse, 669 Washington St., Easton; Feb. 8 at 5:30 p.m. at the Easton/Phillipsburg branch of the Greater Valley YMCA, 1225 W. Lafayette St., Easton, and Jan. 13 at 1 p.m., also at the YMCA.



County employees and residents who wish to attend should contact Gretchen Hill at ghill@norcopa.gov.
BETHLEHEM, Pa.  The City of Bethlehem's zoning map could be revised to accommodate changes related to a new Walnut Street Garage.

During its meeting Tuesday night, Bethlehem City Council set Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. as the date and time for a public hearing on a proposed amendment to the city zoning map involving the 47-year-old parking garage.

The garage encompasses three parcels in the Central Business (CB) district, and a fourth is in a High-Density Residential (RT) district.

The city's parking authority requested the amendment to accommodate a plan to demolish the existing structure and replace it with a new and smaller parking deck, along with retail space on the first level.

Prior to the Feb. 6 public hearing, the Bethlehem Historical and Architectural Review Board will see a presentation on the plan during its meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 6 at 5 p.m.
The American Red Cross is offering some incentives for donating blood or platelets during the busy holiday season.

The Red Cross says it has a hard time collecting enough blood for patients during the winter months because of so many people traveling, seasonal illnesses and potential snow storms.

That's why it's offering "give a gift, get a gift" in December.

Those who donate blood or platelets in the month of December will automatically be entered for a chance to win a $1,000 Amazon gift card and a 65-inch Omni QLED Series Amazon Fire TV. That's thanks to Prime Video and its new movie, "Candy Cane Lane," the Red Cross said.

Those who donate now through Dec. 17 will get a $10 Amazon gift card by email, and those who donate Dec. 18-Jan. 5 will get a Red Cross long-sleeved shirt, while supplies last.

Schedule an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, online at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
TUNKHANNOCK TWP., Pa. - This week marks sixteen years since a young man was shot and killed while hunting in the Poconos.

The case is still unsolved.

A hunter found Lee Vanluvender's body next to his jeep back on December 4, 2007.

The jeep was parked near Pennsylvania State Game Lands, along Hypsie Gap Road in Tunkhannock Township.

Vanluvender's mother has said, in the years since, there have been leads.

But they haven't panned out.

The family continues to offer a $10,000 reward for information about the killing.
POTTSVILLE, Pa. - The families of one of the two teens found dead in the woods of New Philadelphia came out to the Schuylkill County Courthouse Tuesday in Pottsville to call for more to be done to find their killers.

It's been almost two months since 16-year-old Angelito Caraballo and 18-year-old Hunter Mock were killed in New Philadelphia. So far, State Police have announced no suspects, no charges, and no arrests, but the family is not giving up.

"We want answers and justice. It's been too long," said Caraballo's mother, Tanya Evans.

Evans said she believes there are people who know how he died, and she wants them to start talking to police.

"I just want the people to know, that know what happened, they know information, I want them to come forward and not be scared to do so," said Evans.

Even people who are not related to the family came out to the rally to show support and concern for how long the investigation is taking.

"Another holiday is coming, Christmas, and how are they supposed to lay down and close their eyes and sleep at night not knowing? And there's no justice done," said Terri Connors.

State Police tell us they understand the family's frustration, but they're doing everything they can to catch the person or people responsible.

"When we take on a case, we make sure we have everything that we need to have so we can then end up with a successful prosecution, and that sometimes takes time," said Pennsylvania State Trooper David Boehm.

While police do that work, family members tell us they're going to keep reminding everyone what happened to Caraballo and Mock until their killers are found.

"It's not going to end until justice is served, that's for sure," said Caraballo's uncle Bradley Davis.

"As long as it takes," said Evans.

State Police tell us they are still asking for anyone with information on those homicides to give them a call.
SCRANTON, Pa. - An inmate has pleaded guilty in an incident involving a weapon at a Schuylkill County prison.

Thadusse Hartridge, 22, pleaded guilty last week to a charge of possession of contraband in prison.

Hartridge is an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution near Minersville, said the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

Hartridge, formerly of Washington D.C., admitted to having a "shank," a prison-made weapon. Prison staff found the weapon in October 2022, officials said.

Hartridge faces up to five years in prison for the charge. Authorities did not comment on the current sentence he is serving.
DELAWARE WATER GAP, Pa. - A plan to add Amtrak service to New York City from Scranton got a big boost to the tune of a half million dollars.

The direct service line would run from Manhattan to Scranton, with stops in the Poconos.

It could be a game changer for thousands of people who commute to New York from Pennsylvania daily.

"That was music to my ears because we've been working on this for a very long time," said U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright, a Democrat who represents Pennsylvania's 8th District.

Tuesday's announcement marks step one in a three-step process.

"We've been working on this for a very long time, and people have been hearing about it," said Cartwright.

Some people who arrived home Tuesday night from their daily commutes to New York City said this finally feels like a step in the right direction after years of discussion.

"There's no train, and they've been promising this train for years," said Buck McMullen, who's lived in the area for more than 20 years.

Originally from New York, the McMullen and her husband still work in the city a few days a week and use the Martz bus to get there.

"You got to go back and forth. And this is like a commuter territory, so that was part of what we thought would happen. And 25 years...and it never happened," said McMullen.

Scranton and New York haven't been connected by passenger rail since 1970. An Amtrak study estimates an annual economic impact of $84 million dollars today, including added tourism money.

"I think it would be good for the economy here. I think it would be good for the people, the commuters," said McMullen.

"And that's part of the reason we qualify for federal funding because they saw the great number of people who commute for work to greater metropolitan New York City," said Cartwright.

So what about a similar line from Allentown, which has been defunct for over 60 years?

The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission said the status of a possible line from Allentown to New York is on the right track to be evaluated for step one.

That rail study is being led by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

Congressman Cartwright estimates 2028 or 2029 for the Northeast rail project to be finished if all goes according to plan. He'll answer questions and share information about next steps with the public Dec. 19 at the Kalahari Convention Center.
L. MAKEFIELD TWP., Pa.  Police in Lower Makefield Township, Bucks County, are seeking the public's help to identify three people involved in an attempted burglary.

According to police, a resident of Hidden Pond Drive reported that three suspicious individuals walked up to their driveway and attempted to open the doors of vehicles parked outside. The suspects then attempted to open a rear door to enter the home, but were unsuccessful, police said.

Police said the suspects were "possibly African American" and were wearing dark clothing, hoodies and gloves. One suspect had an "unknown object in his right hand," police said.

Anyone with information or surveillance video from the area is asked to contact Lower Makefield Police Detectives at (267) 274-1165.
Sometimes the holidays look a little different depending on what you are going through at the time.

A group of firefighters in Texas wanted to make sure a former television photojournalist had some Christmas cheer when he needed it the most.

Tom Loveless has spent a lot of time behind the camera, sharing the important stories of the people of Texas, so when folks found out about his recent health struggles, they got right to work.

This story comes from reporter Jobin Panicker of WFAA-TV in Dallas-Fort Worth. That's where Tom used to work.

Tom is fighting lung cancer and just had surgery a month ago.

For 40 years, he's put up a beautiful Christmas display outside his home, but this year that just wasn't possible.

That is until the firefighters of Dallas Fire Rescue's Station 11 showed up.

They decorated Tom and Janie's home while they were out at one of Tom's doctor appointments.

This crew put up the lights at no cost.

Tom's isn't the only home they've been too. So far this season, they've decorated 107 homes for free.

And the story just keeps getting better. Tom told WFAA-TV he's currently cancer-free and is going through rehab.
KYODO NEWS - Dec 6, 2023 - 08:24 | All, World, Japan

U.S. President Joe Biden said Tuesday he and his wife are "heartbroken" over the loss of eight American service members after a military Osprey aircraft crashed off the coast of southwestern Japan last week during a routine exercise.

"Since then, we were focused on search and rescue, which ended today after an extensive week-long effort," Biden said in a statement, praising U.S. military personnel and their families as "the backbone" of the country.

"Our entire nation mourns this tragic loss," Biden said. He also thanked the Japanese government for its cooperation in carrying out the search and rescue operations.

As of Monday, six of the eight U.S. service members on board had been confirmed dead, with the remains of three recovered. The U.S. military is still trying to locate the bodies of two of the missing.

The Air Force Special Operations Command separately said Tuesday that all eight have been identified and the U.S. military's search and rescue operations have switched to search and recovery mode.

"The transition from a rescue operation to a recovery operation occurs when the determination is made that survivors are unlikely," the command said, adding that the military's efforts will focus on locating and recovering all remains and aircraft debris.

It said the eight, including pilots and flight engineers, were all in their 20s or 30s.

The U.S. Air Force's CV-22 tilt-rotor aircraft, assigned to the 353rd Special Operations Wing at Yokota Air Base in the western suburbs of Tokyo, disappeared from radar at around 2:40 p.m. last Wednesday off Yakushima Island and crashed into nearby waters.

The cause of the accident -- the deadliest involving a U.S. Osprey since the aircraft's combat debut in 2007 -- is under investigation.

Ospreys have a history of mishaps, including fatal crashes. In late August, a U.S. Marine Corps Osprey crashed on a remote Australian island during a joint exercise with countries including the Philippines, killing three of the 23 who were aboard the aircraft.

Last week's crash has rekindled concerns about the safety of Ospreys in Japan, a key U.S. security ally.

Japan has grounded its forces' own fleet of 14 Ospreys and asked the United States not to conduct Osprey flights except for its ongoing search operations.

But U.S. military flights involving Osprey variants other than the one that crashed have not been completely suspended.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin also released a statement on Tuesday, saying, "We continue to gather information on this tragic incident, and we will conduct a rigorous and thorough investigation."

Austin touched on those killed in the crash and offered condolences to their families. He added that the United States is grateful to Japan's Coast Guard, Self-Defense Forces and local communities, including fishermen, for assisting the search, but made no reference to Tokyo's requested suspension of Osprey flights.

Related coverage:

Searches continue for 2 crew after U.S. Osprey crashes off Japan

Remains of 5 found in search for crashed U.S. Osprey crew in Japan

Pieces of Osprey wreckage given to U.S. after crash off Japan
JERUSALEM (AP)  A man hiding in a pit during the Oct. 7 Hamas assault on an outdoor music festival in Israel said he heard someone nearby screaming she was being raped. Elsewhere in the area, a combat paramedic saw the body of a young woman with her legs open, her pants pulled down, and what looked like semen on her lower back. An army reservist who was tasked with identifying those killed by the militants said some of the women were found wearing only bloodied underwear.

Such accounts given to The Associated Press, along with first assessments by an Israeli rights group, show that sexual assault was part of an atrocities-filled rampage by Hamas and other Gaza militants who killed about 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and took more than 240 hostages that day.

While investigators are still trying to determine the scope of the sexual assaults, Israels government is accusing the international community, particularly the United Nations, of ignoring the pain of Israeli victims.

I say to the womens rights organizations, to the human rights organizations, youve heard of the rape of Israeli women, horrible atrocities, sexual mutilation  where the hell are you? Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told a news conference Tuesday, switching to English to emphasize the point.

U.S. President Joe Biden called the reports of sexual violence appalling and urged the world to condemn horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty.

Two months after the Hamas attacks on the music festival, farming communities and army posts in southern Israel, police are still struggling to put together the pieces.

In the immediate aftermath of the attacks, priority was given to identifying bodies, not to preserving evidence. Police say theyre combing through 60,000 videos seized from the body cameras of Hamas attackers, from social media and from security cameras as well as 1,000 testimonies to bring the perpetrators to justice. It has been difficult finding rape survivors, with many victims killed by their attackers.

The group Physicians for Human Rights Israel, which has a record of advocating for Palestinian civilians in Gaza suffering under Israel's longtime blockade of the territory, published an initial assessment in November.

What we know for sure is that it was more than just one case and it was widespread, in that this happened in more than one location and more than a handful of times," Hadas Ziv, policy and ethics director for the organization, said Tuesday. What we dont know and what the police are investigating is whether it was ordered to be done and whether it was systematic.

Hamas has rejected allegations that its gunmen committed sexual assault.

THEY'RE RAPING ME'

Ron Freger fled the music festival when Hamas attacked and said he heard a woman screaming for help. I was lying in a pit (and) I heard (a girl) yelling: Theyre raping me, theyre raping me!' he told the AP.

Several minutes later, he heard gunshots close by and she fell silent, he said. The feeling in that moment is one of complete powerlessness. Im lying in this hole and I have no ability to do anything. I have no weapon, I have nothing, Im surrounded by other people who are hiding with me and were completely powerless, said the 23-year-old from the northern Israeli town of Netanya.

Last month, Israel's police chief presented to the international news media videotaped testimony of a rape witness at the music festival. Her face blurred, she said she watched militants gang-rape a woman as she lay on the ground. The men then stood her up as blood trickled from her back, yanked her hair and sliced her breast, playing with it as they assaulted her. The last man shot her in the head while he was still inside her. The woman in the video described watching the militants as she pretended to be dead.

I couldnt understand what I saw, she said.

A combat medic told the AP that he came across half a dozen bodies of women and men with possible signs of sexual assault when he reached one of the attacked communities.

One girl had been shot in the head and was lying on the floor, her legs open and pants pulled down, with what looked like semen on her lower back, said the medic who spoke on condition of anonymity because his unit was classified. Other bodies had mass bleeding around the groin with limbs at distorted angles, he said.

At the Shura military base where victims are being identified, Shari Mendes, a member of the army reserve unit that deals with the identification and religious burial preparation of female soldiers, said some of the womens bodies came in with little clothing, such as parts of their pajamas. Some only had bloodied underwear.

WIDESPREAD CRIMES

Based on open-source information and interviews, the Physicians for Human Rights Israel report documents incidents at the music festival, homes around the Gaza Strip and an Israeli military base, all attacked by Hamas.

It is becoming more apparent that the violence perpetrated against women, men and children also included widespread sexual and gender-based crimes, it says.

Before this war, Hamas, an Islamic militant group sworn to Israel's destruction, wasnt known to use rape as a weapon, said Colin P. Clarke, director of research at The Soufan Group, a global intelligence and security consulting firm. Its tactics included suicide bombings and shooting attacks on Israeli soldiers and civilians.

A country like Israel should have the means to do rigorous testing to confirm if people were sexually assaulted in a more systematic way, said Nidhi Kapur, a specialist on sexual abuse in situations of armed conflict.

Forensic testing should have been a priority to build a full picture of the attack, said Kapur, who has worked in the region. In a conflict you first take care of the survivors, you dont count bodies.

On Tuesday, Netanyahu and members of his war cabinet held a tense and emotional meeting with recently released hostages and family members of hostages still held in Gaza. Some of the recently released hostages shared testimonies of sexual abuse during their time in Gaza, participants said.

Separately, a doctor who treated some of the 110 released hostages told the AP that at least 10 men and women among those freed were sexually assaulted or abused, but did not provide further details. He spoke on condition of anonymity to protect the hostages' identities.

According to the Israeli military, 138 hostages, including 15 women, are still held by Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza. Lt. Col. Richard Hecht, a military spokesman, said the army is absolutely concerned about sexual violence against female hostages.

FAILURE TO SUPPORT WOMEN

On Monday, Israel hosted a special event at the United Nations, where former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and top technology executive Sheryl Sandberg were among those who criticized what they called a global failure to support women who were sexually assaulted and in some cases killed.

But some groups say Israel isn't making it easy to investigate.

The Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights said it requested access to Israel and the Palestinian territories to allow it to collect information from the events that took place on Oct. 7 and 8, and since then, but Israel has not responded to its requests, said Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the U.N. Human Rights Office.

Israel says the office has preexisting biases against Israel and it will not cooperate with the body. Israeli officials said they would consider all options for independent international mechanisms to investigate.

Rights experts say the United Nations is best placed to conduct a fair, credible and impartial investigation.

These accounts are horrifying and deserve an urgent, thorough, and credible investigation, said Heather Barr, associate director for the womens rights division at Human Rights Watch.

This version corrects the name of the group that published the report. It is Physicians for Human Rights Israel, not Physicians for Human Rights in Israel.

Associated Press reporters Melanie Lidman, Julia Frankel and Isabel DeBre in Jerusalem; and Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations contributed to this report.
By Chananthorn Kamjan and Petchanet Pratruangkrai, KYODO NEWS - Dec 6, 2023 - 11:04 | World, All

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been focusing on stimulating Thailand's sluggish economy since taking office on Sept. 5, after months of political deadlock that hindered the formation of a government following the May 14 general election.

While Tuesday marked the first three months of Srettha's Pheu Thai Party government, he is facing headwinds in gaining support for controversial "digital wallet" handouts, amid concern over an increase in government debt.

Doubling as finance chief, Srettha, 61, has said he aims to promote consumption through the giveaway, in a bid to boost Southeast Asia's second-largest economy, still on a recovery path after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the digital wallet scheme, the government plans to give 10,000 baht ($287) in digital money to people aged 16 and over to spend in their localities.

"The scheme is to inject money into the economy by enabling people to spend, in a partnership with the government aimed at reviving the economy," Srettha told reporters on Nov. 10 about the handouts, which critics say will worsen the national finances with debt having reached 11.13 trillion baht, or 62.14 percent of GDP, in September.

Yutthaporn Issarachai, a political scientist at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University, said of the scheme, "People will be happy if the government can improve their lives, but it is a short-term solution. Solving problems at the root cause, such as inequality, is more important."

Responding to criticism that the proposed scheme was wasteful, Srettha decided in November to target only people in the age group who earn less than 70,000 baht per month or hold no more than 500,000 baht in savings.

Still, the government will need to secure a 500 billion baht loan to finance the handouts and is slated to submit a related bill during the parliamentary session starting later this month.

The digital wallet scheme is reminiscent of the populist policies of Thaksin Shinawatra, who served as prime minister between 2001 and 2006, experts said. Pheu Thai is the third incarnation of a political party founded by Thaksin.

Thaksin, who was ousted in a military coup in 2006, is serving an eight-year sentence for corruption and malfeasance after returning to Thailand in August from self-imposed exile.

Thaksin's subsidy and welfare programs were popular in rural areas but raised concerns about the sustainability of state finances, the misuse of public funds and corruption.

Sirikanya Tansakun, deputy leader of the liberal opposition Move Forward party, has criticized the digital wallet scheme for lacking a revenue source, calling the government's attempt to secure a loan for the program "a careless thought."

The economy is not in a critical situation requiring a giveaway as the year-on-year increase in gross domestic product stood at 1.5 percent in the July-September quarter, Sirikanya said, adding the bill was unlikely to be passed by parliament.

But Thanavath Phonvichai, senior vice president for academic affairs and research at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said the digital money giveaway would help the economy to grow and was fairer than the measures implemented by Thaksin.

Thaksin's government and that of his sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, who served as prime minister from 2011 to 2014, subsidized rice farmers and other agricultural producers.

"The digital wallet scheme is more efficient, transparent and effective" as it would help middle- and low-income earners while also stimulating the economy, Thanavath said.

But some observers believe the scheme is aimed at restoring the reputation of Pheu Thai after it formed the coalition government with pro-military parties, reversing its earlier stance. Some even suspect that Srettha is merely a puppet of Thaksin.

Thaksin returned to Thailand on Aug. 22 when Srettha, a former property tycoon with little political experience, was elected prime minister by parliament in a vote in which he was the sole candidate.

Although Move Forward won the May election, it was prevented from forming a government by military-appointed senators opposed to its pledge to amend stringent laws against insulting the monarchy.

Many opposition lawmakers said Thaksin's return was related to the senators' support for Srettha as a prime minister.

Yutthaporn said Srettha has the backing of Thaksin and some of his family members including Yingluck, a friend of Srettha since both were in the property business, and Thaksin's youngest daughter Paetongtarn.

He doubts whether Srettha can make his own decisions, saying, "This government has been formed to restore the political status of the Pheu Thai Party after it was in opposition for nearly a decade and pave the way for Paetongtarn to become the next prime minister after Srettha."

Besides the digital wallet scheme, Srettha has been promoting tourism, a key economic growth driver, by extending the validity of tourist visas for Russian citizens, in contrast with European countries that have restricted the entry of Russians due to Moscow's war against Ukraine.

Acting as Thailand's chief salesman, Srettha has encouraged foreign tourism and investment in the country during his recent trips overseas, including to China and the United States.

Yutthaporn said Srettha appeared to have made a good start by promoting Thailand in numerous meetings with businesspeople abroad and making some deals for foreign investment during his trips.

Regarding the passage of the digital wallet bill, many senators and lower house members have voiced concern about the resulting financial burden on future generations.

If Srettha succeeds in convincing parliament and passing the bill, the businessman-turned-politician could solidify his leadership, getting rid of the shadow of the Thaksin family, Thai politics observers said.

Related coverage:

Japan, Thailand foreign ministers vow to boost economic ties

Thailand's Srettha sworn in as PM, months after general election

Thai king reduces ex-PM Thaksin's jail time to 1 year
KYODO NEWS - Dec 6, 2023 - 20:19 | All, Japan

Three more bodies of crew members of a U.S. military Osprey aircraft that crashed last week in waters off southwestern Japan were recovered on Wednesday, people close to the matter said.

With the latest retrieval from the sea, six of the eight crew members aboard the aircraft have been recovered.

The U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command said Tuesday that it has shifted its efforts from search and rescue to recovery operations.

The Japan Coast Guard, which has been taking part in the operation, continued its search for the remaining two crew members.

The U.S. Air Force's CV-22 tilt-rotor aircraft, assigned to Yokota Air Base in the western suburbs of Tokyo, disappeared from radar at around 2:40 p.m. on Nov. 29 off Yakushima Island and crashed into nearby waters.

It was heading to the Kadena Air Base in the southern island prefecture of Okinawa from the U.S. military base in Iwakuni in Yamaguchi Prefecture, western Japan.

According to the Japanese Defense Ministry, the crash is the deadliest accident involving U.S. Ospreys, although 19 people were killed during a trial run in 2000.

Related coverage:

Biden "heartbroken" over loss of 8 in U.S. military Osprey crash in Japan

Searches continue for 2 crew after U.S. Osprey crashes off Japan

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KYODO NEWS - Dec 6, 2023 - 12:27 | All, World, Japan

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will host an online summit of the Group of Seven industrialized nations later Wednesday as the Asian nation wraps up its role as this year's rotating chair, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy set to join them.

The G7 leaders are expected to discuss Russia's war against Ukraine and the conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said at a press conference.

An international comprehensive framework on advanced artificial intelligence will also likely be high on the agenda, according to the top government spokesman.

Kishida hosted an in-person G7 summit in May in his home constituency of Hiroshima. Zelenskyy traveled to Japan to attend the summit.

The G7 involves Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States plus the European Union.

Italy will take over the grouping's presidency from Japan next year.

Related coverage:

U.S., Japan, South Korea to cooperate on North Korea, economic security

Foreign minister vows Japan to "take lead" in addressing Gaza crisis

G7 agree to promote fair competition in generative AI, digital sector
KYODO NEWS - Dec 6, 2023 - 23:39 | All, Japan, World

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu agreed during phone talks on Wednesday to closely communicate in dealing with the situation in the Gaza Strip, amid Israel's war with the militant group Hamas.

In their first talks since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel, which triggered retaliatory strikes on the Palestinian enclave, Kishida told Netanyahu that a further increase in civilian casualties must be avoided and called for efforts to calm down the situation as soon as possible, according to the Japanese Foreign Ministry.

In response, Netanyahu explained Israel's position on the military operation in Gaza, the ministry said in a press release, without elaborating.

Concerns have been growing over increasing civilian casualties in Gaza as warfare resumed last Friday following a seven-day pause in the fighting that saw an exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners.

During the phone conversation, Kishida and Netanyahu also shared their concerns over attacks on commercial ships frequently occurring in the Red Sea and other regional waters, the Japanese ministry said. Some of them are believed to have involved the Yemen-based, Iran-backed Houthi rebels.

The talks followed Kishida's in-person meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog in the United Arab Emirates on Friday on the sidelines of a U.N. climate conference, during which he also expressed hope for an easing of tensions from the Gaza crisis.

The conflict has killed over 16,000 people in the Hamas-ruled enclave, with many believed to be women and children, according to local authorities. Israel says about 1,200 people were killed in the surprise Hamas attack.

Related coverage:

Japan hopes for early easing of tensions in Gaza: PM tells Israel

Japan PM departs for UAE to attend U.N. meeting amid Israel conflict
Click the photo and watch the video.

Diverse global voices in the Youth Power series explore Shenzhen's transformative journey in China's 45-year reform and opening-up, showcasing rapid growth, inclusive policies, and global impact, Meng Wenjie reports.

In 2023, China celebrated the 45th anniversary of its reform and opening-up policy. Shenzhen, the city in South China's Guangdong Province, is the policy's original incubator and the first Chinese special economic zone. Transforming from a small fishing village into a modern global metropolis, it has long stood as a microcosm of China's dynamic 45-year history of implementing this policy.

The latest episode of China Daily's Youth Power, titled "Gen Z's Perspective  45 Years of Reform and Opening-Up", aired on Nov 30. In the program, eight young people from different countries converged in this legendary city to discuss the events and changes over the past 45 years.

Xiong Tian, a Chinese student at Tsinghua University, was raised and educated in Shenzhen. Among the city's many marvels, she believes that the Shenzhen International Trade Centre Building stands out as the best embodiment of "Shenzhen speed". It was completed in just 37 months, setting a record in China in the 1980s by constructing one floor, spanning 1,350 square meters, in only three days.

"I think this place best represents the phrase 'Time is money, and efficiency is life'," Xiong said, quoting the slogan that was commonly used in the 1980s, reflecting the era's determination for economic development.

Reflecting on the history of how Shenzhen was once a small village and then became the factory of the world in the 21st century, Xiong said that daring to be the first in and for the world encapsulates one of Shenzhen's key spirits.

As an epitome of China's reform and opening-up policy, Shenzhen has not only witnessed the rapid development of China's economy but also the evolution of different policy phases. Diego Rodriguez, a Spanish student studying energy and power engineering at Tsinghua University, pointed out that Shenzhen is the first city globally to alter the approach in measuring city growth: shifting from GDP (gross domestic product) to GEP (gross ecosystem product).

"China is prioritizing the development of the country to make growth more sustainable," said Rodriguez. "And it's doing this in various ways."

Jood Sharaf, a Bulgarian student at Tsinghua University, voiced concerns about the inequality in rapid economic growth. She noted that China's coastal cities expanded considerably faster and were more engaged in international trade. As a result, talented people from other developing areas frequently relocated to these cities in search of better prospects, with western parts of the country lagging behind.

"But there's starting to be a reversal of this tendency," Sharaf said, highlighting that the Chinese government is implementing measures to distribute economic benefits more equitably.

"For example, the Belt and Road Initiative passes through the heart of underdeveloped areas. Many projects have also promoted investment and attracted young people from these areas. These individuals, who may have studied in Beijing or Shanghai, are now returning to their hometowns to work on these projects."

Ye Xueying, a Hong Kong student at Wuhan University's School of Chinese Classics, shared the story of Huang Wenxiu. Huang, a graduate of Beijing Normal University, exemplifies the group of young people who pursued education in major cities but made the deliberate choice to go back to their hometowns after graduation.

According to Ye, Huang returned to her native Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in Southwest China and worked as a village Party secretary in a severely underdeveloped community. She dedicated herself to efforts aimed at alleviating poverty.

"People like her are a crucial part of the reform and opening-up policy," Ye said.

While sharing Huang's case, she also mentioned the same slogan "Time is money, and efficiency is life", which was one of the key principles during the initial stages in Shenzhen's development.

"It sounds very much like utilitarianism, but it didn't end up with utilitarianism; it ends up with eliminating poverty," she said.

Rodriguez echoed this sentiment. "What the reform did was seek a way for the country to develop and ensure that the resulting wealth is distributed among all of the country's people," he said.

Jane Amelia Ma, an Indonesian student studying at the Southern University of Science and Technology in Shenzhen, believed that China's reform and opening-up policy has not only improved the lives of Chinese people but has also benefited other countries.

"For example, in my country Indonesia, we didn't have an advanced metro system like Shenzhen. But now we have one under construction that will connect Bandung, a city near Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, with the help of China," she said.

Dylan Austin Walker, an editor based in Beijing, hails from Longmeadow, Massachusetts in the United States. He pointed out that in Springfield, a neighboring city, a Chinese company manufactures subway cars that are distributed across the country, including Boston, the capital of Massachusetts. Notably, most workers at the factory are local residents, which, according to him, exemplifies how technological advancements and industrial development in China have a positive impact on other nations.

"As a lot of people say, if China develops well, it benefits the world," he said. "China is not interested in exporting its way of thinking or system to other countries. But if something were to be exported, it's just this thought of allowing other countries to understand that there are other ways you can try and just respect their choice."

Reflecting Walker's viewpoint, Sharaf added that the policy of reform and opening-up has not only driven the development of China and the world but has also offered successful experiences for other countries.

"Some African countries have developed their economic zones," she said. "This means China's policy isn't just for its own domestic economy; it's a kind of model for others to follow and it's a way of interaction instead of imposition."

But economic advantages are not the only outcome of China's reform and opening-up policy; it has also nurtured an open and inclusive mindset.

For example, Sharaf, an international relations major who has studied in both Western countries and China, noticed a higher degree of openness in China toward scholars and academic perspectives from various countries.

"Here, I learn more about Western philosophy or policies in different countries, like Africa and Asia, compared to my studies in other countries," she said.

Walker agreed, referring to his own academic experiences in China. "We had a more inclusive and open type of education in our major compared to what is taught in the West," he said. "We're not only learning from the Chinese perspective but also from diverse international viewpoints in an unbiased and objective way."

(Source: China Daily)
Weather Alert

...Very active weather and dangerous cold forecast for the next week... A very strong storm system will move through the region Friday. Very strong winds are expected and a wind advisory has been issued for the entire region for 40-50 mph wind gusts. Stronger winds are possible. Widespread rain may lead to localized flooding in areas where thunderstorms form with up to 2 inches of rain possible in those areas. Severe thunderstorms are not currently expected but there is a small potential over the southern Pennyrile region of Kentucky Friday morning. A change to sleet and snow is forecast at the end of the day but accumulations are still not anticipated. If temperatures do not rise above freezing Saturday it is expected to mark the first of 5 to 6 days where temperatures will not rise above freezing. Lows Saturday through Tuesday night are forecast to fall into or near the single digits. Below zero wind chills are likely most of Monday and Tuesday. This extended cold snap will be dangerous to those without adequate shelter and will likely challenge plumbing and other cold-sensitive infrastructure. Accumulating snow remains possible Monday but forecast amounts have trended a little lower, and will remain subject to change for the next few days as more data becomes available.

...WIND ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 AM CST /7 AM EST/ FRIDAY TO MIDNIGHT CST /1 AM EST/ FRIDAY NIGHT... * WHAT...Southwest winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph expected. * WHERE...Portions of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...From 6 AM CST /7 AM EST/ Friday to midnight CST /1 AM EST/ Friday night. * IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Wet ground may result in some trees being uprooted, and tree limbs will be blown down. A few power outages are likely. High profile vehicles will have difficulty. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...A corridor of stronger winds, with gusts up to 60 mph is possible over the Pennyrile region of west Kentucky ahead of the front, and across the entire quad-state behind the front. If that begins to appear likely a high wind warning will be issued. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects. &&
KYODO NEWS - Dec 6, 2023 - 19:50 | All, Japan

A Japanese court on Wednesday ruled the country's nationality law that denies dual citizenship is constitutional, rejecting a lawsuit filed by a Japanese-born U.S. citizen.

Yuri Kondo, 76, who resides in Fukuoka Prefecture, southwestern Japan, said in the suit filed with the Fukuoka District Court that acquiring U.S. citizenship should not have automatically stripped her of her Japanese nationality.

Presiding Judge Fumitaka Hayashi said the denial of multiple nationality is "rational" as the law ensures the freedom of changing one's nationality.

Kondo suggested she would appeal the ruling, telling a press conference, "There are many people who face the same problem."

According to the ruling, Kondo, who was born in Japan, moved to the United States in 1971 to attend graduate school. She later began practicing law in Arizona.

After acquiring U.S. citizenship in 2004, she was able to renew her Japanese passport when she returned to Japan in 2008.

However, when she tried to renew it again in 2017, her application was rejected. She is currently staying in Japan on her U.S. passport.

Kondo claims that Article 11 of the nationality law violated her rights by taking away her nationality against her will. Article 11 stipulates that Japanese citizens automatically lose their nationality upon acquiring a foreign one.

Eight people residing in Europe also challenged the law's constitutionality, but they lost the case in the Supreme Court in September.

Related coverage:

Japan-born American files suit against Japan's dual nationality ban

Japan had fewer foreign residents in 2021 amid COVID border controls
The US Department of Labor (DOL) has fined a California poultry processor a measly $3.8 million for illegally employing and endangering children, cutting wages and firing workers who worked with investigators. The company, The Exclusive Poultry, Inc., is a supplier to major supermarkets and food distributors like Ralphs, ALDI, Grocery Outlet and SYSCO Corp.

One of the children employed by PSSI to clean slaughterhouses [Photo: US Department of Labor]

The DOL report lists gross violations, such as the illegal employment of children as young as 14 years old to debone poultry using sharp knives and operate power-driven lifts to move pallets. Additionally, workers were paid less than minimum wage, children worked excessive hours, in violation of federal regulations, and the company cut the wages of those workers cooperating with investigators.

The report details that [company founder Tony] Bran, The Exclusive Poultry and their associated companies willfully failed to pay required overtime wages to their employees, paying them either a piece rate or a straight time hourly rate even when they worked 50 or 60 hours per week.

On October 16, a preliminary injunction through the US District Court for the Central District of California was filed by the DOL warning Bran and owners of associated front companies, Karen Rios, Juan Valtierra, Javier Meza and Jacqueline Garcia, that The Exclusive Poultry Inc., Valtierra Poultry LLC and Meza Poultry LLC controlled by Bran directed employees under 18 years-old to use sharp knives to debone and cut poultry and employed children to work longer and at times not permitted by the law. They also directed minors to work in prohibited facilities and failed to pay overtime wages, all violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act [FLSA].

The injunction directed the defendants to not employ oppressive child labor, as defined in 29 U.S.C.  203(l), in violation of Sections 12(c) and 15(a)(4) of the FLSA, more specifically to not suffer or permit to work any person under the age of 16 years in violation of 29 C.F.R.  570.35 or any person under the age of 18 years in any hazardous occupation prohibited by 29 C.F.R.  570.61, including but not limited to all boning occupations.

Moreover, the company was prohibited from retaliating, intimidating, or discriminating in any way against any current or former employee of Defendants who exercises their rights under the FLSA, including telling employees that communication with the Acting Secretary will result in immigration or other legal action against them, and otherwise deterring employees from cooperating with or speaking to the Acting Secretarys representatives through threats, bribes, or intimidation.

In other words, the company was ordered to stop blackmailing workers on the basis of their immigration status. Most working children in the US are immigrants: agriculture alone employs about 500,000 children between the ages of 12 and 17. Farms enjoy exemptions from the law, allowing children as young as 10 to work with their guardians permission. Federal minimum wage, moreover, is not applicable to agriculture.

The Exclusive Poultry has a long record of violations. Last April, it reached a $1.47 million settlement with the California Labor Commissioner for wage theft. Yet, despite such history, the business got away with a fine and a three-year monitor. In other words, business as usual. What this development evinces is the criminal and abusive conduct of corporations, which continues virtually unpunished. For corporations, fines are a small operating expense in the pursuit of profit.

This is not a unique instance of a company being exposed for relying on child labor. Last February, meatpacking plant contractor Packers Sanitation Services Inc. was fined $1.5 million for similar violations, a slap on the wrist for the largest cleaning service for food processors, owned by the private equity firm Blackstone, with 17,000 employees.

Last year, it was revealed that, for the last several years, at least four part suppliers to automakers Hyundai and Kia employed children as young as 12 in Alabama. More than 10 plants have been under similar investigation.

Additionally this year, in Louisville, Kentucky, it was discovered that at least two 10-year-olds worked at a McDonalds. According to a DOL report, they served customers, cleaned the restaurant and manned the deep fryer, sometimes until 2 a.m. in the morning.

USAFacts has reported on the basis of DOL data that child labor in the US has increased 300 percent from 2015 to 2022. According to UNICEF, one in 10 children worldwide is subjected to child labor, for a total of 160 million children, many of whom are forced into hazardous work. In poorer areas such as West, East, South and Sub-Saharan Africa, one in four children is in the workforce. Most of them are victims of imperialist wars and have been displaced by conflict, disaster or poverty. Human trafficking and child migrant labor is a direct product of the brutal influence of US and European imperialism in large parts of the world.

In California, the richest state in the US, where The Exclusive Poultry, Inc. operates, child labor is such a serious issue that the Democratic Party has attempted to conceal its gravity by requiring schools to teach students about their rights at work and how to defend themselves against workplace abuses.

Such measures will do nothing to stop the exploitation of children, especially immigrants, whose vulnerable status is a direct consequence of the draconian anti-worker and anti-immigrant policies pursued by both Democrats and Republicans at home and abroad. The ongoing killing of children in Gaza made possible by President Joe Biden and the Democratic Party flies in the face of these empty initiatives and is only the most recent and tragic example of the violent brutality of capitalism.

A measure of social progress is undoubtedly the development and treatment of societys most vulnerable members, children and the elderly. On both counts, capitalism has failed miserably.
Sosyalist Esitlik Grubu (Socialist Equality Group, SEG) in Turkey held a public meeting in Istanbul on Sunday titled Stop Israels genocide in Gaza! Socialist internationalism and the struggle against Zionism and imperialism. Ulas Atesci, a writer for the World Socialist Web Site and a leading member of the SEG, gave the main report.

Atesci began his presentation by saying that it was part of a series of meetings organized around the world by parties and groups affiliated to the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI). He said:

In these meetings, we explain to the working class and youth, i.e. the social base that can stop this genocide, the historical roots of the imperialist-backed genocide that Israel is continuing in Gaza, and we show what needs to be done both to stop this genocide immediately and to say never again to imperialist wars, genocides and massacres.

Atesci addressed the historical and programmatic issues raised by Israels genocide and ethnic cleansing campaign. The development of the Zionist movement and the historical conditions under which the state of Israel emerged were linked to the usurpation of political power by Stalinism in the Soviet Union that was opposed by the Left Opposition, the centenary of which is being commemorated.

Ulas Atesci speaking at the meeting Stop Israels genocide in Gaza! Socialist internationalism and the struggle against Zionism and imperialism.

He emphasised that if the Trotskyist opposition, rather than the Stalinist faction that advanced the reactionary theory of socialism in one country had been victorious in the struggle within the Bolshevik Party, which began in 1923, the world socialist revolution would have triumphed in the twentieth century and the many catastrophes, such as the Holocaust and the Gaza genocide we are witnessing today, would have been prevented.

Stalin and the Communist Party in Germany played a decisive role in dividing the working class and paving the way for the Nazis to take power by declaring that the Social Democrats were social fascists, Atesci said. He referred to David Norths remarks at a University of Michigan meeting:

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.

Atesci discussed the development of both antisemitism and modern Zionism in the context of the ruling classes using them as a political weapon against the developing working-class and socialist movement.

He emphasised that Marxists drew attention to the connection between the antisemites hatred of Jews and their hatred of socialism and the workers movement and added: Just as anti-Semitism essentially targeted the developing workers and socialist movement at the end of the 19th century, the Zionist political movement that developed around the same time was an anti-socialist and pro-capitalist movement that aimed to block the programme of international socialism from gaining ground among the Jewish masses of workers and intellectuals.

Referring to Zionists collaboration with the Nazis in the 1930s, Atesci explained that both reactionary ideologies were nationalist and pro-capitalist movements, strongly hostile to the international socialist movement of the working class.

Atesci detailed the scale of the genocide in Gaza committed by the Israeli state and the support and complicity of the imperialist powers led by the US and its allies in the Middle East. He explained the role, hypocrisy and dilemma of the Turkish government led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Turkish ruling class and the entire political establishment in the Gaza genocide.

Turkey was the first Muslim-majority country to recognize the state of Israel. Although relations between the two countries have ebbed and flowed for 75 years, they have always been based on the ruling classs allegiance to imperialism, its military-strategic alliance and trade with the Zionist state.

The Erdogan governments attitude today was largely a continuation of this traditional policy. No matter how much Erdogan condemns Israels aggression, no matter how much he calls it genocide, it cannot change the fact that his government is part of the NATO military alliance, which is the main architect of what is happening in Gaza.

The same was true for the bourgeois opposition parties, which are pro-NATO and in favour of an alliance with Israel. These were the very same parties behind which the pseudo-left groups and trade union bureaucracies line up. Atesci explained:

It is not possible to oppose Zionism and the genocide in Gaza in a principled and consistent manner without opposing the Turkish ruling class and its establishment parties of all colours, which are deeply tied to imperialism and NATO, and without opposing them with a socialist programme based on the international working class.

However, it should not be concluded from this that the conflict between Ankara and Tel Aviv was simply artificial and unimportant. Erdogans criticism of the Israeli attack on Gaza and the US deployment of aircraft carriers to the region reflected concerns within the Turkish ruling class. Chief among them was that a possible war by the US and its allies against Iran could have unacceptable consequences for Ankara, including the formation of a US-backed independent Kurdish state.

Atesci discussed the attempts to suppress mass global protests in defence of the Palestinians and the slander that these protests are antisemitic.

Referring to Hamas and other Palestinian groups, he noted that whether they advocate the so-called two-state solution or a single capitalist Palestinian state, the programmes of these organizations do not go beyond the confines of the prison of the imperialist nation-state system, which is the basis of the historical oppression of the Palestinian people:

The whole experience of the last century shows that the liberation of the Palestinian people lies in the united revolutionary struggle of the Arab and Jewish working class, together with their other class brothers and sisters in the Middle East, against the Zionist regime and against all capitalist regimes and imperialism in the region. The goal of this struggle must be the establishment of a socialist federation of the Middle East and a union of socialist republics throughout the world.

The presentation ended with an appeal to the audience to join the Sosyalist Esitlik Grubu in this fight. Afterwards, contributions and questions from the audience led to a lively discussion and a more detailed presentation of ICFIs perspective.

One of the participants asked why the mass protests against the genocide in Gaza in Europe and around the world, despite bans and repression, were not seen in Turkey.

Atesci explained that while the pseudo-left spoke out rhetorically against the Israeli genocide, in practice there was no attempt to mobilise workers and youth against it. These parties were based on and represented the upper middle class, not the international working class.

They were oriented towards the imperialist powers and their political representatives in Turkey. He reminded the audience that the pseudo-left parties backed Kemal Klcdaroglu in the presidential elections last May despite his openly pro-imperialist and anti-refugee programme and that the Kurdish nationalist Peoples Democratic Party (HDP) and Stalinist Workers Party of Turkey (TIP) deputies did not vote no in Finlands NATO bid vote in the parliament.

Another question was whether the two-state solution could be argued as an immediate solution to the genocide in Gaza. Atesci stressed that this imperialist-backed deception, which has been presented as an immediate solution for at least seventy-five years, ultimately led to the current genocide.

Gaza, he reiterated, was one of the most striking examples of the bankruptcy of the imperialist nation-state system and the reactionary consequences of national programmes. The working class taking power and replacing capitalism with socialism all over the world was the most immediate and direct response to the fundamental problems of our time.

The meeting also discussed Will Lehmans campaign for the presidency of the United Auto Workers (UAW) in the US in the context of the growing interest in socialism among workers and youth internationally.

The meeting was dedicated by the SEG to the memory of Comrade Helen Halyard, a leading member of the Socialist Equality Party (US), who died on November 28, and Comrade Halil Celik, the founder and leader of the SEG, the fifth anniversary of whose death will be marked on December 31.

After the meeting, discussions with the audience continued and books published by Mehring Yaynclk were presented.
School students in Australia are walking out of classrooms on Thursday to protest Israels onslaught against the Palestinian people. The International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE), the youth wing of the Socialist Equality Party, fully supports the students. They are taking a stand against the worst crime of the century, and together with millions of ordinary people around the world, are seeking to halt the slaughter.

A section of the school strike for Palestine in Melbourne on 23 November, 2023

It is a fortnight since the last student strikes were held. Even in that short time, the utterly criminal character of Israels actions, and of all the governments supporting it, have been further exposed.

It is now undeniable that what is unfolding is a genocide. Israel is waging a war against defenceless civilians. Of the 20,000 known victims of the Zionist regimes bombardment in Gaza, 10,000 are babies and children, 5,000 are women. Countless more lie beneath the bombed rubble of the residential buildings, schools, universities and hospitals that have been targeted.

The truce late last month was a fraud, aimed solely at providing the Israeli mass killing machine with time to reload. Since it was ended, the bombing has resumed with even greater intensity.

Israel depopulated Northern Gaza, forcing its residents to the south of the tiny strip. Now that is where the bombs are falling. The Palestinians have nowhere to go.

All of the pretexts used to justify this assault have been exposed as lies. As was reported in the New York Times last week, the Israeli military and intelligence had Hamass document, outlining its battle plan for the October 7 attack, for more than a year. Israel also received warnings from Egypt of an imminent Hamas operation in the days leading up to October 7.

The Israeli government responded with a security stand-down. It has since also been revealed that many of the Israeli citizens who died on that day were killed by shelling and helicopter gunfire by the Israeli military itself.

In other words, the Israeli government facilitated the killing of its own citizens. It did so to enact longstanding plans for the ethnic cleansing of Gaza and a genocide of the Palestinians.

This is a crime, involving the deliberate destruction of an entire people by an advanced industrial state, that has not been witnessed since the Nazi Holocaust.

Every bit as significant as the actions of the Zionist regime is the full support for the genocide by all the imperialist powers. That includes the Labor government in Australia. They defend Israel because it is a beachhead of imperialism in the Middle East and a linchpin of the entire reactionary nation-state system.

They are backing the Zionist regime because its onslaught against the Palestinians is bound up with preparations for broader wars, including threats against Iran, a US-NATO proxy war against Russia in Ukraine and plans for a catastrophic conflict with China in this region.

The fight against the genocide is therefore a struggle against all the governments and the system they defend. The mass slaughter in Gaza is the true face of capitalism and of imperialism. It is what this crisis-ridden and bankrupt social order has in store for workers and young people all over the world.

The IYSSE insists that the task we face is not to pressure governments, but to build a mass movement of the working class against them. The genocide can only be halted by mobilising the power of the working class, including through strikes and industrial action to block military supplies to Israel.

Above all, what is required is a new perspective, the program of world socialist revolution. The aim must be to bring the working class to power, reorganise society to meet social needs, not private profit, unify humanity and create the foundations for a world of peace and equality.

Claims that the struggle for socialism is a far-off perspective that may be valid in the distant future, but not now, or that things are not bad enough for a revolution, are being refuted by events. A system that orchestrates and condones a genocide is one that is an imminent threat to the entire worlds population and has to be done away with.

If governments will back the annihilation of an entire oppressed people, who can seriously claim they would stop short of using nuclear weapons as they explicitly prepare for war with nuclear-armed powers such as Russia and China?

The situation itself demonstrates that we are living in a period of capitalist breakdown, like that which erupted in World War II. That is shown, not only by what is taking place in Gaza, but in the onslaught against democratic rights that is accompanying it in every country, including here.

The last school strikes, two weeks ago, were subjected to an extraordinary campaign of vilification and intimidation by the political establishment. The Labor governments in New South Wales and Victoria demanded that the strikes not take place, and threatened students with disciplinary action if they participated.

Leaders of pro-Israel Zionist organisations launched frenzied attacks on striking students, with one describing them as human shields being manipulated by activists, and another calling them a modern-day Hitler Youth. These comments were uncritically promoted by the media, which also slandered the strike.

This is part of a broader crackdown on protests defending the Palestinians. The pretext, that opposition to Israels war crimes is equivalent to antisemitism, is an infamous lie. In fact, the attempt to identify Judaism with the genocide in Gaza is itself antisemitic. The Israeli state and its crimes do not represent the interests of ordinary Jewish people.

The lies are being used to justify a turn towards dictatorial methods. While they support a genocide, governments are declaring that ordinary people are not even allowed to protest the mass murder.

This shows that appealing to governments is a dead end. The Greens and pseudo-left partiesSocialist Alternative, Solidarity and Socialist Allianceclaim the way forward is to put pressure on governments. But what this means in practice is bowing down before the very governments that are enabling the genocide and blocking a real struggle against it.

After eight weeks of protests, it is clear enough that the governments are not listening. Instead, the more opposition is expressed, the more they double down on their support for the slaughter.

The orientation of students should not be to governments but to the working class, the revolutionary force in society that has the power to put an end to war and to capitalism. That includes turning to teachers, who have also been under attack for opposing the genocide.

The Committee for Public Education, a rank-and-file teachers organisation, recently passed a resolution, declaring:

The CFPE stands in solidarity with the world-wide protests, including strikes, blockades and actions such as the school strike of students in Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide last week. Teachers must oppose any attempt by schools to discipline students who have participated in or are planning further strikes.

The unity of teachers and students must be built upon through joint meetings, protests and other activities. This cannot take place through the teacher unions, which, like all the unions, support the Labor government as it greenlights mass murder. Instead, it has to come from the rank-and-file in opposition to the union bureaucrats.

Such initiatives, including protests, are important and must be expanded. But in and of themselves, they do not solve the issue. They only pose more sharply the question of perspective, i.e., what is the way forward?

Your generation is growing up at a turning point in world history. The alternatives, as shown in Gaza, are capitalist barbarism, threatening the annihilation of humanity, or socialism. The genocide is being carried out amid a climate catastrophe, a massive cost-of-living and social crisis and an eruption of militarism.

But the basis for a struggle against this also exists, in the developing struggles of the working class all over the world. These struggles need a revolutionary leadership that is based on all the lessons of history, and advances the socialist and internationalist perspective that can put an end to war, inequality and authoritarianism. Contact the IYSSE to discuss this perspective and to get involved!

Email: iysseaus@gmail.com

Facebook: facebook.com/IYSSEaustralia

Twitter: @IysseA

Instagram: @iysse.aus

Details of the strikes:

Melbourne

1:30 p.m. Thursday, 7 December

Flinders Street Station

Sydney

12:30 p.m. Thursday, 7 December

Sydney Town Hall

Wollongong

12:30 p.m. Thursday, 7 December

Wollongong Town Hall

Canberra

1 p.m. Thursday, 7 December

Garema Place
Joseph Kishore, the National Secretary of the Socialist Equality Party (SEP) in the US, is to visit Sri Lanka to speak at meetings organised by the SEP and the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) to commemorate the centenary of Trotskyism.

Kishore has been the SEP (US) National Secretary since 2008 and is a regular writer for the World Socialist Web Site, published by the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI). He was the SEPs presidential candidate in the 2020 US elections.

The first of these two meetings, entitled Leon Trotsky and the fight for socialism in the 21st century, will be held on December 7, courtesy of the Political Science Association of Peradeniya University at room number 86 in the university, while the second will be held at the New Town Hall in Colombo on December 10.

SEP members speak with students from Peradeniya university about centenary of Trotskyism, December 2023

The campaign for the meetings is being conducted by the SEP and IYSSE, explaining the century-long fight by the Trotskyist movement to defend and develop Marxism, and its contemporary relevance for the struggle for international socialism. It has attracted an enthusiastic response from workers and youth.

Published below are some of the remarks made by students, academics and non-academic workers at Peradeniya University.

Chamil, an Arts Faculty student, said: I participated in two lectures held by the IYSSE at this university recently. I first came to know about Trotsky and the movement he built from the lecture on the Ukraine war.

Those lectures pointed out that the danger of world war and the attacks on our rights could be stopped through a fight for international socialism against capitalism. I agreed with that.

Through todays discussion, I came to know that these points had been explained by Trotsky even at the turn of the 20th century. However, I have a question about whether this type of program can win the workers to its side, considering the power of the rulers, including their media.

The campaigners pointed out that while the capitalist rulers had such power, when the working class joined last years popular uprising in Sri Lanka that attracted millions of people, it expressed its enormous strength. As a result, former President Gotabhaya Rajapakse was forced to flee the country.

Chamil responded: Yes it makes clear that the working class possesses such power. But after Rajapakse, now President Ranil Wickremesinghe is implementing the privatisation of health, education and other sectors. Protests are being suppressed, using the police.

SEP and IYSSE members explained that pseudo-left groups, like the Frontline Socialist Party (FSP), and the trade unions betrayed the mass uprising by subordinating it to the demand for an interim government promoted by bourgeois opposition parties like the Samagi Jana Balawegaya and Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna. That betrayal paved the way for the Wickremesinghe government.

The discussion then turned to the role played by the Bolshevik Party under the leadership of Lenin and Trotsky in the 1917 Russian Revolution. Chamil added: I now understand that the Russian Revolution was successful because there was the Bolshevik Party. In order to get more clarification, I will participate in the lecture.

From left, Sujith and Chamil speak with SEP members during the campaign at Peradeniya university, December 2023

Sujith, another Arts Faculty student, commented: I accept that the war cannot be stopped without mobilising the international working class and that only your movement works for it. I think social media should creatively be used to bring your movement to the masses.

Campaigners described how the SEP and IYSSE work to bring the Trotskyist perspective and program to workers and youth by utilising the WSWS and social media. They pointed out the necessity of developing a cadre armed with Trotskyism, the Marxism of the 21st century.

Sujith responded: Actually, we have to think about what we should bring into the workers and youth, as you say. I accept that a cadre armed with Trotskyism is needed for it. I have understood in this discussion that the revolutionary class in the society is the working class and that the students should turn to the working class and fight for socialism under its leadership to win their demands.

Ruchira, a Science Faculty student, said: Even though I had heard the name of Trotsky, I did not know that he had played such an enormous role in history. With your explanation, I understand one thing. That is, the dangerous wars confronting everyone in the world, unemployment, poverty, pandemics and the destruction of environment, i.e. every issue we face, has its roots in capitalism and the outmoded nation-state system.

Wars in the Middle East and in Ukraine, and other problems have only one solution in the world. That is the unification of the international working class on a socialist program to abolish the capitalist system and its nation-state system. Even though it seems to be a difficult task at once, we see in the news how youth, students and the majority of masses are engaged in protests demanding an end to the wars. So I think we can succeed. Definitely, I will come to the meeting on December 7.

Vimukthi, an engineering student, joined the discussion, explaining the difficulties confronting university students.

Those students who do not have hostel facilities have to find outside accommodation facilities, paying at least 5,000 rupees ($US15.20) per month. The majority of such students have to take low-priced vegetarian meals from university canteens.

The combined expenditure for a month for rent, meals and other costs is at least 15,000 to 20,000 rupees. Parents cannot afford such spending due to the sky-rocketing cost of living. Therefore, we have been forced to take part-time jobs. It is a barrier to our education.

Vimukthi also said that even though students would be able to get a degree, they face the issue of finding a job. He and other young people were searching for solutions for these problems.

As you explained, it is crystal clear that solutions for problems cannot be found under capitalism, which is in its death agony. The international socialist solution that your movement is advocating is logical. To get more clarification, I will come to the December 7 meeting with my friend.

After SEP and IYSSE members explained the title of the December 7 lecture and its content to a group of final year students in the Department of Psychology, one female student said:

When you said that all the critical problems that mankind faced in the last century have reemerged acutely, I found it difficult to understand why they were unable to be solved in that century. I understood that although Trotsky and his movement were continuously fighting and presenting an international socialist program, it could not be realised because other movements worked among workers around the world against Trotskys program. As the present generation, we should know these historical facts. So we will participate in the meeting.

Chathuranga, a non-academic worker at the universitys Distance Learning Department, said that without a political program he had been confused how to stop the attacks by the Wickremesinghe government. Now he saw the light after hearing the international socialist program presented by the Trotskyist movement.

He added: The trade unions demanded only an increase of 20,000 rupees [in monthly salary], while our monthly incomes real value is so low. They did not discuss with us before deciding that amount. Now at least 50,000 rupees per month should be added to our basic salary. Otherwise we cannot live.

The government has only given an allowance of 10,000 rupees in the budget. The trade unions paved the way for the government to offer such a meagre amount. The government and the trade unions are working in unison. Therefore, we do not have any faith in the unions.

I agree with your explanation that our problems cannot be solved under the capitalist system. I have understood it through my recent experience. We have to take forward the struggle for action committees as our own fighting organisations. I will talk to my colleagues about this and try to convince them to participate in the lecture on December 7.

Ahmed, a lecturer in the universitys ICT department, said: I am totally opposed to the genocide in Gaza. Appealing to the United Nations, an agency of imperialists who give their full backing to this genocide, to stop the war is utterly futile. I met you while I was thinking about how to stop this brutal attack [on Gaza]. Your idea that this genocide can be stopped by fighting for a United Socialist Republic of the Middle East through the unity of Arab and Jewish workers is logical.
On November 23, representatives of the Government of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), negotiating on behalf of the Stalinist Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), held a secret signing ceremony at Oslo City Hall in Norway. Five days later, the Ferdinand Marcos Jr administration and representatives of the National Democratic Front living in political exile in the Netherlands staged separate press conferences and announced that they would be resuming peace talks to bring an end to the insurgency waged since 1969 by the CPPs New Peoples Army (NPA), the longest-running armed conflict in Asia.

Luis Jalandoni, National Democratic Front of the Philippines chair, in 2017 [AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino]

The joint statement of the 23rdsigned by Luis Jalandoni, chair of the NDFP, and Antonio Lagdameo, a leading businessman and Special Assistant to the Presidentdeclared:

Cognizant of the serious socioeconomic and environmental issues, and the foreign security threat facing the country, the parties recognize the need to unite as a nation in order to urgently address these challenges and resolve the reasons for the armed conflict.

References to concern over socioeconomic and environmental issues have been the boilerplate of such announcements for decades. The foreign security threat, however, is new. The Marcos administration is integrating itself with Washingtons drive against China and Manila is playing an increasingly prominent role in the preparations for war. China is the foreign security threat that both the Marcos government and the CPP present as the justification for national unity.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner made this point explicitly in remarks to Reuters, If this conflict will finally end, the Armed Forces of the Philippines will be able to shift our focus to external or territorial defense. Our resources, efforts will be poured into defending our territory.

The announced resumption of peace talks was the product of nearly two years of secret negotiations initiated by the Philippine military and adopted by Marcos with the singular motive of ending domestic armed conflict so the Philippine military could focus its energies on preparations for war with China. The CPP is lining up behind the anti-China campaign and presenting it as an urgent justification for discussing the end of more than half a century of armed struggle.

The armed struggle and peace talks

The CPP and NPA launched their armed struggle in early 1969. Ferdinand Marcos Sr was president of the Philippines. In September 1972 Marcos declared martial law and imposed a brutal military dictatorship on the country that lasted until his ouster in February 1986.

The CPP is a Stalinist party; it has a nationalist political perspective. Like Stalinist parties around the globe, the CPP claimed that the tasks of the revolution in the Philippines were exclusively national and democratic in their character and not yet socialist. They told workers and the toiling masses of the Philippines that the nationalist character of the revolution in the Philippines imparted a progressive role to a section of the capitalist class, the so-called national bourgeoisie. The task of workers, peasants, and youth was to ally with the section of the capitalist class and give them critical support in the carrying out of the national democratic revolution.

The CPP was founded as a breakaway from an older Stalinist party, the Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas (PKP). While the PKP followed the political line purveyed by Moscow and allied with the Marcos dictatorship, the CPP adopted the perspective of Maoism, which is a tactical variant of Stalinism. Maoism claimed that the ends of the national democratic revolution and the alliance with the national bourgeoisie could only be secured by means of armed struggle waged by a peasant army in the countryside. The armed struggle would gradually surround the cities, and the victory of the armed struggle would culminate in the national democratic revolution and the formation of a coalition government of workers and progressive capitalists. In the words of the CPP, peace talks with the reactionary government were a means of achieving the victory of the armed struggle and the success of the national democratic revolution.

Stalinism, in both its Soviet and Maoist variants, is an anti-Marxist program of nationalism and class collaboration. The Bolshevik party led the Russian working class to victory in October 1917 on the basis of the perspective of the Theory of Permanent Revolution first put forward by Leon Trotsky in 1906. The tasks of the revolution in every country were determined by the world system of capitalism and not by individual national particularities. It was world capitalism that imparted to revolutionary struggles, regardless of where they first erupted, the necessity of adopting socialist measures in order to succeed. The national and democratic tasks of the revolution, long belated, could only be realized through socialist revolution. The capitalist class was the enemy of the working class in every corner of the globe.

On the basis of their Stalinist perspective the CPP launched peace talks with multiple successive administrations, including those of Corazon Aquino, Fidel Ramos, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, Benigno Aquino III, and Rodrigo Duterte. The advance of the peace negotiations involved the leadership of the CPP cultivating in the minds of their followers and of the working class more generally the illusion that pressure brought to bear on the government could culminate in the realization of a just society.

Former Communist Party of the Philippines leader Jose Maria Sison [AP Photo/Andrew Medichini]

This took particularly grotesque form with Duterte in 2016. The CPP hailed the fascistic president as progressive, treated as good coin his claim to be a socialist, selected candidates to serve in his cabinet, and endorsed his murderous war on drugs. CPP leader Jose Maria Sisons enthusiasm for Duterte was public and overwhelming. The CPP and the legal national democratic organizations that follow its political line campaigned for Duterte, propped up his administration in its first year, and sowed great confusion in the Filipino working class.

Under immense pressure from the military, which had been trained in anti-Communist counter-insurgency since the era of American colonial rule, Duterte broke off negotiations with the CPP in November 2017.

In the wake of the breakdown of talks, the CPP suffered tremendous setbacks. Their support for Duterte, whose war on drugs led to the murder of over 30,000 impoverished Filipinos, and the political exposure of their support published by the World Socialist Web Site led to a substantial loss of followers for the CPP. The political rallies staged now by national democratic groups are poorly attended, pale shadows of what they were a decade ago.

The leadership of the CPP and NDFP is ageing and dying off and they have not trained replacement cadre for leadership. None of the negotiators of the NDFP are under 75 years old. Fidel Agcaoili, leading negotiator of the NDFP, died of illness in 2020 at the age of 75.

An image repeatedly circulated by Sison on Facebook in 2016 calling for unity with Duterte

The repressive Duterte regime that the CPP had supported turned its apparatus of murder against the followers of the CPP. A number of leading representatives of the NDFP, so-called peace consultants, were murdered by the police, military, and paramilitary forces, including Randy Malayao, Julius Giron, Randall Echanis, Eugenia Magpantay, Agaton Topacio, and Rustico Tan. Others disappeared and have not yet been found. Benito Tiamzon and Wilma Austria, for years the heads of the CPP in the Philippines, were killed by the military.

Most devastating of all, founder and lifelong ideological leader of the CPP, Jose Maria Sison, died in December 2022 in exile in Utrecht at the age of 83.

The remaining leaders of CPP and NDFP come to peace talks in 2023 in a position of unprecedented weakness, as the organization over which they have presided since its founding is collapsing.

New talks

During his six years in office, Duterte pursued a policy of conciliation toward China, hoping that by distancing Manila from Washingtons aggression in the region he could secure improved economic ties with Beijing. A section of the military brass, many of whom had been trained at facilities in the United States, opposed this policy. There were repeated rumblings of possible coups.

The peace discussions with the CPP were initiated by sections of the Philippine military brass demanding that the government prepare for war with China. At the center of this was retired Gen. Emmanuel Bautista.

Jalandoni told the press that the peace discussions had started at the discreet initiative of the GRP [Philippine government] emissary which was positively welcome and highly appreciated by Jose Maria Sison. The emissary was Bautista. Juliet de Lima, widow of Sison and head of the NDFP delegation, reiterated Jalandonis point. The initiative of Gen Bautista was welcomed by Joma Sison.  We are grateful for this kind of initiative.

Jalandoni asserted there had been two years of discussions that culminated in the joint statement of November 23. This would mean, however, that discussions began before Marcos was elected. They were certainly not launched by the outgoing administration of Rodrigo Duterte. They began with neither administration; they began in the military.

Bautista was AFP Chief of Staff under the Benigno Aquino III administration (2010-16). He was the chief architect of Oplan Bayanihan, the multi-pronged counter-insurgency strategy of the Aquino government, that was fiercely denounced for its bloody and repressive character by the CPP in numerous issues of its flagship publication Ang Bayan.

When Aquino nominated Bautista to head potential peace talks with the CPP in early 2015, Sison denounced the appointment as an insult to the NDFP and the revolutionary movement.

Bautista is a member of a shadowy organization, Advocates of National Interest, composed of generals and colonels and ex-ambassadors who published a statement in May 2021, in the final year of the Duterte administration, calling for an aggressive prosecution of the Philippine claim to the South China Sea. They called for national unity in preparation for conflict with China.

That same week, Jorge Madlos, spokesperson of the NPA, issued a statement denouncing Duterte for being sickeningly subservient and loyal to his Chinese imperialist boss.  We call on all patriotic soldiers to side with the people by withdrawing support for a traitor Commander-in-Chief.  Defend national patrimony and sovereignty! The statement made no mention, not a word, of US imperialism.

There was a clear alignment of interests and perspective between the CPP and the sections of the military that Bautista represented. The outlook of this layer was clearly articulated by Bautista in an interview in April 2023, when he told the press it is impossible for the Philippines not to get drawn in a Taiwan or South China Sea conflict  if you cannot deter war, prepare for war.

Preparation for war is the motive behind the peace talks. In early 2022, in the midst of a fiercely disputed presidential election, Bautista secretly arranged to meet personally with Sison in Oslo. Press reports state that their meeting was coordinated by the Norwegian government, longtime mediators in the peace talks, during a visit by Bautista to Oslo, and thus we know that Sison and Bautista met in June 2022 before president-elect Marcos took office.

The initiative for the negotiations, in other words, began not with the office of the President but with coup-plotting sections of the military who were demanding that the country be firmly reoriented back into the camp of Washington. It is their voice that is expressed in the joint statements appeal for national unity in the face of a foreign security threat.

Lining up behind Marcos

Marcos entered office a political cipher, wavering between sections of the elite who sought to continue Dutertes conciliatory policies toward Beijing and those who sought to reverse this policy. Within months, he oriented to Washington, resumed construction of basing facilities for US troops in the country, and secured support from the Biden White House for his administration.

Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. at a rally in Quezon City, Philippines on April 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila) [AP Photo/Aaron Favila]

The Philippine military is staging provocative joint patrols with both the United States and Australia in the disputed South China Sea. Some of the basing facilities authorized for Washingtons use by the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) are operational. Marcos has launched discussions to craft a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) for Japanese forces in the country. The preparations for war with China have never been more advanced and the Philippines has resumed playing a leading role as a proxy of Washingtons interests in the Asia Pacific region.

The elite opposition to Marcos was mobilized to a significant extent on the fear that he would uphold his pledge to continue the foreign policy orientation of the outgoing Duterte administration. Marcoss reorientation to Washington produced a seismic shift in Philippine political life. Marcoss allies in the elite camp of Duterte and Arroyo that is oriented to Beijing, including his Vice President Sara Duterte, came into open conflict with the President. And the erstwhile elite opponents of Marcos swallowed their displeasure and have increasingly embraced the son of the dictator.

There is a growing alignment, initially subterranean but now openly expressed, between the Liberal Party opposition forces of the last election and the Marcos administration. This finds its clearest manifestation in Leila de Lima, niece of Juliet de Lima, and Justice Secretary under the Benigno Aquino III administration. She had been unjustly imprisoned on trumped-up drug charges by Duterte, a reprisal for her conducting a Senate investigation into his drug war. De Lima was recently released by Marcos on bail and she has been made spokesperson of the Liberal Party and has, at the same time, aligned with the Marcos administration. It is widely mooted that she will lead a human rights campaign against Rodrigo Duterte with the backing of Malacanang presidential palace.

The NDFP, then aligned with Duterte, were part of the official lynch mob that put de Lima behind bars in 2017. Makabayan, a political umbrella coalition of groups that follow the nationalist line of the CPP, worked alongside the right-wing Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) to bring corruption charges against the Aquino administration. The drug charges against de Lima were filed by VACC stemming from this initiative. Burying its own culpability, the NDFP issued a press statement on November 28 hailing de Limas release from unjust imprisonment.

Vice President Sara Duterte has emerged as the center of the forces plotting against Marcos. Speaking at the fifth anniversary celebration of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), a deeply reactionary body of which she is vice chair, Duterte announced that the governments agreement with the NDFP was an agreement with the devil. Leila de Lima, now spokesperson of the Liberal Party, denounced the Vice President on behalf of Marcos and defended the administrations initiative.

Over the weekend, leading members of the national democratic organization, Bayan Muna, stepped in to defend the Marcos administration from any attempt at destabilization. Bayan Muna chair Neri Colmenares, and Bayan Muna executive vice-president Carlos Zarate warned of reports to destabilize the government. Colmenares called on the military and police to remain loyal to the Marcos administration. Seven years ago, Colmenares campaigned to get Duterte elected and Zarate signed a public pledge of full support for Duterte. Now both line up to defend Ferdinand Marcos Jr from the Duterte wing of the elite. The orientation of the CPP has shifted, and so too has loyalty of the national democratic organizations it leads.

It is geopolitics that fuels the tensions in the Filipino ruling elite; it is this that drives the machinations and rumors of destabilization and coups detat. The sharpness of these tensions is a concentrated expression of the advanced danger of war with China, which both factions seek to remedy by increasingly desperate measures to either ally with or gain distance from the United States.

The CPP is lining up behind, and giving voice to, the overwhelming sentiment of the thin layer that is the petty bourgeoisie in the Philippines which demands the nationalist prosecution of the countrys claim to the West Philippine Sea. These layers are engaged in the angry, insistent assertion of sovereignty over rocks and reefsmany submerged at high tideagainst China, while American forces again tread Philippine soil, with the extraterritorial immunity they enjoyed throughout the 20th century.

This geopolitical orientation of the CPP has been growing for years. While they still engage in their denunciations of US imperialismalthough at times they forget to even mention thistheir anger is reserved for China. The alignment of the nationalist orientation of the CPP with the agenda of Washington is increasingly open. In 2020, Sison gave an interview to the US government propaganda outlet, Radio Free Asia, in which he proclaimed that the NPA would be targetting Chinese firms blacklisted by Washington.

Prospects

The NDFP had always insisted in prior peace talks that the agreements reached with earlier administrations remained binding, including the Hague Joint Declaration, the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG), and the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL). That is no longer the case.

Aged, weakened, and desperate, the leaders of the NDFP negotiating team repeatedly told the press that there are no preconditions to resumed negotiations and insisted that they were making no demands. They listed four points, including the release of political prisoners, but repeated to the press that these were not demands; they were issues to be discussed.

Juliet de Lima declared that through the peace talks, We envision and look forward to a country where a united people can live in peace and prosperity and that they hoped to arrive at an agreement that will provide solutions to problems that have long burdened the Filipino people. The problem that has long plagued the Filipino people is capitalism. No deal with the Marcos government, or any capitalist government, will solve this problem.

Hostility to the family name Marcos, and the brutal legacy that it represents, has to an extent been the defining feature, almost the raison detre, of the CPP for the past 50 years. Now they are lining up, preparing to provide critical support to the son of the dictator, in furtherance ultimately of the geopolitical interests of Washington. One of the very last political acts of Jose Maria Sison was to welcome the architect of counter-insurgency warfare as the negotiator of a peace deal with the administration of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The political decay of Stalinism has reached a stage of unimaginable rot.

Regardless of the outcome of the peace talks, the CPP stands utterly exposed as an agent and ally of the most reactionary social layers in Philippine society.
GAZA, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- The only operating hospital in the conflict-ravaged northern Gaza Strip halted services on Wednesday due to fuel shortages and heavy Israeli strikes, according to a Palestinian health official.

"Kamal Odwan Hospital was out of service due to repeated Israeli targeting and the exhaustion of fuel needed to operate the generators," Munir Al-Bursh, director-general of the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza, said at a press conference.

Al-Barsh said that the Israeli army continued to besiege the hospital in the town of Beit Lahia and targeted it with air and artillery bombardment.

He added that the hospital received more than 100 dead bodies overnight on Tuesday but was unable to bury them due to the heavy strikes.

Over the past two days, areas around the hospital came under two Israeli aerial attacks and witnessed heavy fighting between the Israeli army and Palestinian militants, resulting in deaths and injuries.

According to the Health Ministry, more than 10,000 displaced people have taken shelter in and around the hospital, and are unable to leave due to the fighting.

Since Oct. 7, Israel has been waging a large-scale war against Hamas in Gaza, which has left 15,899 Palestinians dead, the ministry said on Monday.

The conflict began after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on southern Israel, which claimed the lives of about 1,200 people, according to the Israeli authorities. 
Palestinians look at destruction after the Israeli bombing In Khan Younis refugee camp in Gaza Strip on December 1, 2023. [Photo: Mohammed Dahman/WSWS]

Israels military reported Tuesday it had reached the centre of Khan Younis in southern Gaza amid what a top general labelled the most intensive day of combat since the start of the Netanyahu regimes genocidal onslaught on the Palestinians. The ground offensive on the city, whose population has swelled over recent weeks by hundreds of thousands of Palestinians fleeing from northern Gaza, was accompanied by indiscriminate air strikes.

On the fifth day of the Zionist regimes savage onslaught, after it unilaterally declared an end to the week-long pause in fighting, the United Nations said it was impossible to ensure so-called safe zones for civilians anywhere in Gaza due to the ferocity and scope of air and ground attacks. UNICEF spokesperson James Elder stated that the safe zones proposed by the Israeli military are not scientific, they are not rational, they are not possible, and I think the authorities are aware of this. Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA), said that aid operations are at a breaking point and that Israels ongoing siege of Gaza could become a major source of death.

A series of devastating air strikes Tuesday in Khan Younis and the surrounding area underscored the fact that civilians have no place of refuge. At least 45 men, women and children were slaughtered in an attack on what eye witnesses said was an entire residential block in the town of Deir el-Balah just north of Khan Younis. A further 50 civilians were reported killed in strikes prior to the advance of Israeli troops into Khan Younis on Tuesday.

Tens of thousands have already fled Khan Younis for the southernmost city of Rafah. Home to some 280,000 people prior to Israels onslaught, estimates predict that over a million people could soon be crammed into the city on the Egyptian border. The UNRWA warned that there were inadequate resources to provide humanitarian aid for all displaced people, many of whom were already displaced once before from the north to Khan Younis and its surroundings earlier in the bombardment.

Adnan Abu Hasna, a UNRWA representative, described the hellish conditions already prevailing in Rafah: We have tens of thousands of families in the streets. They are already [sheltering] under random things  pieces of nylon and wood. Its raining now. We will see the disaster.

On top of the danger posed by air strikes and the heavy weaponry used by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on the ground, the threat posed by untreated diseases is growing rapidly. The UN reported Tuesday an outbreak of hepatitis A at one of its refugee facilities. Just nine out of Gazas 35 hospitals continue to function, and there is a chronic lack of medical equipment, medications, and clean drinking water.

The Gaza Government Media Office on Tuesday placed the death toll since the Israeli bombardment of Gaza began at 16,248 people. More than 7,000 people are reported missing, most likely buried under the rubble produced by air strikes. The death toll includes 7,112 children, 4,885 women, 286 medical workersincluding paramedics and doctors, and 81 journalists and media workers. The bombardment has injured at least 43,616 people.

In the same statement, the Media Office described the virtual halt to aid deliveries into Gaza following Israels resumption of military operations as a death sentence for 2.3 million people. Reports indicate that only around 100 aid trucks are making it into Gaza through the Rafah crossing each day, just 20 percent of the pre-war daily total of 500 trucks.

The development of Israels military operations is following a clear plan: ethnically cleanse most of Gaza and force a large portion of its residents, if not the entire population, into Egypts Sinai desert. This approach has been outlined in Israeli government documents and in comments by far-right figures within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus coalition government. The Zionist regimes strategy has the unconditional backing of the imperialist powers, above all the United States, without whose military and political support Israel could not carpet bomb Gaza and indiscriminately massacre civilians.

In language that could have been used by any Nazi leader during World War II, Netanyahu outlined his regimes intentions for Gaza Tuesday evening at a press conference alongside Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and War Cabinet Minister Benny Gantz. We are settling accounts with all those who kidnapped, participated, murdered, slaughtered, raped and burned the daughters of our people, Netanyahu fumed. We will not forget and we will not forgive. In Khan Younis and Jabalia, he continued, the ground shook during IDF operations, we surrounded both there is nowhere we do not get to.

Outlining his vision for an end to the onslaught, Netanyahu declared, There will be no forces that support terror, educate for terror, finance terror and the families of terrorists. Gaza must be demilitarized, he added, and the only force that can ensure this is the IDF. No international force can be responsible for this.

Referring to the flattening of the vast majority of residential buildings in northern Gaza, Gallant added in a similar vein, What happened in Gaza City is happening now in Khan Younis with impressive results. For good measure, Gantz emphasised that Israel would not be bound by any restrictions on its operations, asserting, Only Israel will determine its fate. Even after the official end of hostilities, he said there would be months and years of IDF operations aimed at stabilising the reality.

Speaking at a fundraiser in Boston on Tuesday, President Joe Biden made clear his full endorsement of the Netanyahu regimes genocidal plans. Blaming Hamas for ending the pause in fighting because it refused to release some female hostages, Biden declared, Were not going to stop  were not going to stop until we bring every one of them home and its going to be a long process.

Biden is the leading representative of US imperialism, which has waged bloody wars that have destroyed entire societies and killed millions across the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia over the past 30 years. The last thing he is concerned about is the lives of an estimated 138 hostages still in Gaza.

American imperialism is determined to use Israels ethnic cleansing operation in Gaza, the culmination of the Zionist projects 75-year-long dispossession and oppression of the Palestinian people, as an opportunity to lay the groundwork for a region-wide war. The Biden administration dispatched two aircraft carrier strike groups and a nuclear-capable submarine to the region early in the conflict to menace Iran and its rivals for domination over the oil-rich and geostrategically critical Middle East.

Bidens acknowledgement of Israels forcible expulsion of the Palestinians being a long process underlines that in order to consolidate its hegemonic position in the region as part of a redivision of the world at the expense of its rivals, above all China and Russia, Washington has no qualms about allowing the IDF to continue massacring innocent civilians for weeks and months to come.

The threat of an escalation towards a regional conflagration remains imminent. Since the IDFs resumption of its assault on Gaza, hostilities have also intensified on the northern border with Lebanon. On Tuesday, the Lebanese army reported that one of its soldiers was killed in an Israeli strike supposedly aimed at a Hizbollah position. The fatality was the first reported by the Lebanese army during the cross-border conflict since 7 October, which has seen Israel strike numerous targets in southern Lebanon and Hizbollah fire rockets into northern Israel.

The IDF released a rare statement claiming, Lebanese army forces were not the target of the attack. UNIFIL, the UN agency tasked with monitoring the border since Israels withdrawal in 2000, described the stepped-up exchange of fire in recent days as alarming.

Stopping the unfolding genocide in Gaza and preventing a region-wide war depends on the independent political intervention of the working class, in the major imperialist centres, in Israel and throughout the Middle East. The urgent task facing the millions of young people and workers who have joined protests around the world against the Gaza genocide is to turn to the working class by appealing for a broad mobilisation to stop the supply and production of all conceivable military equipment to Israel.

Workers should respond to the call of the Palestinian trade unions for solidarity strikes in every country, building towards an international political general strike to oppose the genocidal policies of the Netanyahu regime and its imperialist backers with an internationalist and socialist programme to put an end to war and all forms of oppression.
Over the past six weeks, transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, has more than doubled across the United States, according to the latest wastewater data released Monday by Biobot Analytics. Amid complete silence from the Biden administration and the corporate media, the American population is being subjected to its eighth wave of mass infection with a deadly virus capable of damaging every organ system and causing myriad long-term debilitating symptoms.

Modeling the latest wastewater data, oncologist Dr. Mike Hoerger of Tulane University estimates that at present roughly 1.2 million Americans are catching COVID each day, while 8.6 million people are now actively infectious. By New Years Day, there will likely be 1.8 million daily new infections and 12.9 million infectious people. This would be the second-highest level of daily infections of the entire pandemic, surpassed only during the initial wave of the Omicron variant in the fall-winter of 2021-22.

The Biden administration is doing everything possible to keep the public from knowing the immense dangers it confronts, in order to facilitate a policy of deliberate mass infection that will cause older Americans and disabled people to fall by the wayside, as expressed by Dr. Anthony Fauci earlier this year. To the extent that the surging pandemic kills vulnerable people, this is, in the words of former Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) director Rochelle Walensky, an encouraging sign.

The fourth winter wave of the pandemic in the US is now concentrated in the colder Midwest and Northeast regions, with the Midwest experiencing its worst level of infections since January 2022, during the first wave of the Omicron variant. Wastewater levels of SARS-CoV-2 are also rising in the South and West, and expected to surge in the weeks ahead.

COVID-19 hospitalizations are rising rapidly in the Midwest, particularly in Illinois, Michigan and Indiana, and deaths will soon climb as well, although both official figures are significant undercounts due to the scrapping of COVID testing.

Until now, the wave in the US has been fueled primarily by the Omicron EG.5 and HV.1 subvariants. The JN.1 subvariant, a descendant of the highly-mutated BA.2.86 subvariant (nicknamed Pirola), is rapidly becoming dominant and is expected to supplant all other variants globally in the weeks ahead. Only after this variant is dominant will it be possible to tell whether it is more pathogenic and likely to hospitalize or kill those infected.

The latest wastewater data entirely confirm the warnings made by the World Socialist Web Site two weeks ago that this years record Thanksgiving travel would facilitate the spread of COVID-19, endangering millions of people across the country.

This is the first holiday season in the aftermath of the Biden administration and the World Health Organization (WHO) ending their respective COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) declarations, legitimizing Bidens lie that the pandemic is over. With the corporate media dutifully following suit, masses of people throughout the world have been led to believe this disinformation and have dropped their guard, with most family and other gatherings involving no mitigation measures whatsoever.

The ending of the PHEs put the final nail in the coffin of whatever semblance of public health remained in the US and globally. In every country, pandemic surveillance has been scrapped, including testing, contact tracing, and the regular reporting of official COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths, as part of a systematic effort by capitalist governments to cover up the ongoing impacts of the pandemic.

Most recently, on November 27, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) quietly announced on its website that it will no longer provide data from COVID case reports submitted to it by the states, until now the most reliable and prompt method of reporting COVID-19 deaths.

The US and world population are now flying blind into what could be a catastrophic winter storm of COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations and deaths. Coinciding with a surge of other respiratory pathogens, in particular, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), this could quickly become a repeat of last years tripledemic, or even worse. There are already reports of childrens hospitals being inundated in cities across North America and Europe, as well as in China.

A byproduct of the deepening cover-up of the very existence of the pandemicfueled by heavily funded anti-vaccine disinformation campaignsis the fact that booster vaccination rates have plummeted. Only 16 percent of American adults, and only 27 percent of the most vulnerable millions of elderly Americans who live in nursing homes, have been vaccinated with the latest monovalent booster shot tailored to the Omicron XBB.1.5 subvariant. Throughout much of the world, these life-saving boosters are not even available.

In a rare admission of the ongoing dangers of COVID-19, German Minister of Health Karl Lauterbach, a member of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD), spoke on the devastating effects of Long COVID at a press conference Monday. Noting historical spikes in Parkinsons disease and dementia after the 1918-20 influenza pandemic, Lauterbach said that COVID-19 infection affects how the immune system in the brain functions, as well as the brains blood vessels, potentially increasing the long-term risk of these major neurodegenerative diseases.

Lauterbach stated, We are seeing an increasing number of [Long COVID] cases as the waves of infection continue to affect us. He added, COVID is not a coldwith a cold you dont usually see any long-term effects. You dont see any changes in the blood vessels. You dont usually see an autoimmune disease developing. You dont usually see neurological inflammationthese things that we all see with Long COVID It can affect brain tissue and the vascular system.

Expressing concern that only 3.6 percent of the German population has received the latest booster shot, Lauterbach concluded, Please protect yourself from Long COVID. Currently, the danger posed by COVID is indeed being underestimated.

Listening to this press conference, one could be forgiven for holding out hope that at least one official is taking the pandemic seriously. But the truth is that Lauterbachs comments were mere lip service to the immense suffering from Long COVID, meant to provide political cover for his own and the entire German governments criminal response to the pandemic.

Over the past two years, ignoring thousands of studies already published on Long COVID, Lauterbach has overseen the complete dismantling of all anti-COVID public health measures, creating the very conditions over which he now feigns concern. In April, Lauterbach echoed Bidens lie, tweeting, We can say that the pandemic is also over for Germany.

He has also complied with the SPD-led governments gutting of the health budget, which has been cut by three-quarters over the past two years, from 64.4 billion to 16.2 billion. This includes the slashing of funding for research into Long COVID from 100 million to only 21 million, a drop in the bucket relative to the vast scale of this health crisis.

Furthermore, Lauterbach, like all other capitalist politicians, refuses to encourage masking or offer any other means to stop or even slow the spread of the pandemic. A global elimination strategybased on cleaning indoor air in all public spaces, mass testing of the population to identify and cut off all chains of transmission, and other public health measuresis beyond the pale for the capitalist profit system.

Such a strategy, however, is now more attainable than at any point in the pandemic. On the same day that Lauterbach spoke and Biobot updated its wastewater data, an article was published in Vox on the growing research showing the immense potential of far-UVC technology to reduce the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and all other airborne pathogens.

The article, titled, Ultraviolet light can kill almost all the viruses in a room. Why isnt it everywhere? covers much of the same ground as a two-part series published by the WSWS this year. Citing a report from the organizations Rethink Priorities and 1Day Sooner, it notes, All told, the report estimates that a comprehensive plan to improve air quality, including far-UV, upper-room UV, and ventilation/filtration, in every single commercial building in the US would require a one-off investment of $214 billion.

Instead of providing such funding, necessary for the health of society, the Biden administration is funneling unlimited sums to Israel to carry out a genocide of the Palestinian population and to Ukraine to perpetuate its proxy war against Russia. The annual military budget for American imperialism now stands at over $1 trillion, enough to provide clean food, water and air for billions of people globally.

Despite a years-long propaganda campaign to condition the public to accept perpetual mass infection with COVID-19, there remains significant opposition to the capitalist let it rip policies among scientists, advocates for the disabled and older people, and advanced sections of the working class. As they enter into struggle against war, genocide and exploitation, workers and young people must renew the fight to end the COVID-19 pandemic through a scientifically grounded policy of global elimination.

The experience of the past four years of the pandemicin which over 27 million lives have been sacrificed at the altar of private profit, and all governments have surrendered their populations to unending waves of disease, disability and deathproves unequivocally that capitalism has nothing progressive to offer humanity. It is a doomed social order which must be replaced with a world socialist society, based on the principles of economic planning and social equality.
Sheila Brehm worked with Helen Halyard for more than 50 years. She made these remarks to the memorial meeting held by the Socialist Equality Party and the International Committee on Sunday, December 3.

Helen touched the hearts and minds of everyone who knew her. For more than a half century, she left an indelible mark on party members from all the sections of the International Committee of the Fourth International that she met, as well as the hundreds and thousands of workers and young people who came to know her. Helen was a powerful orator, always educating and inspiring those who heard her. She was a tireless fighter for the party, while campaigning as the partys candidate for Congress, mayor of Detroit and US president. She became well-known and admired for her tenacity at the factory gates; she was highly respected. She influenced all those with whom she had political discussions, as well as discussions of a broader character.

Helen Halyard in 1992

Helen also had an enormous impact on the children of party members, as well as the children of the children of party members. Helens family deeply respected her values and politics. Helens son Jamal, her niece Kenyetta and Kenyettas husband Mike and her dear cousin Lorraine with whom she took her memorable trip to South Africa in 2019, were profoundly impacted by Helenas she was by them. The same is true of Tania, Marco and Angel, and many others who are attending today.

She always took a genuine interest in those with whom she met and worked. Naturally, Helen would stress the great principles of the Trotskyist movement and their relevance for the present, to explain why she had dedicated her entire adult life to the struggle for the liberation of the working class and the oppressed masses from capitalism and for the socialist transformation of society.

She was the real thing. Falsification, pretentiousness, backwardness and arrogance were alien to Helen. She helped form the culture of the party, both its high theoretical and political level, as well as the meticulous attention to organization. Continuity lives through us, through the cadre of the revolutionary party. Helen was always conscious of this. She located herself in the historical character of our epoch, the epoch of the death agony of capitalism.

She based herself on the historical significance of the October Revolution and the revolutionary capacities of the American and international working class. This was expressed in the energy and enthusiasm with which Helen dedicated her life to the work of constructing the revolutionary party, our international party, which will lead the working class in the taking of power.

When Helen joined the Workers League in 1971, like all of us of from our generation, the struggle against the Socialist Workers Partys reunification with the Pabloites in 1963 was still very freshit was less than 10 years from the time we joined the party.

Helen Halyard, right, leads a Young Socialists jobs march, in 1976

What were the great issues that educated Helen and our generation? That the Socialist Workers Party did not represent Trotskyism. While it claimed to, and while it had a much larger membership than us, only the IC defended the principles of Trotskyisminternationalism against nationalism, the fight for political independence of the working class, the revolutionary role of the working class, and the necessity of the revolutionary party in preparing the working class to assume its decisive role in the socialist transformation of society.

At the time, there were dozens and dozens of parties and organizations claiming to be socialist. In addition to the SWP, there were Maoists, all varieties of middle-class radicals, the Stalinist Communist Party, state capitalists, black nationalists, and so on. Helen was steeled in the understanding that what defines the character of a party is not its numbers, not its ties to movers and shakers, but to great principles, and that Trotskyism was the only alternative. The fight to demarcate our party from everyone else at the time made Helen, and I think our generation, very fierce fighters!

In sharp opposition to all the other political formations, who took neither themselves nor their own organizations or their history too seriously, Helen was guided by the unshakeable conviction and optimism that the party she was building would lead the working class in the overthrow of the capitalist system.

She took enormous interest in the political education particularly of the younger generations who joined the party. In addition to politics, Helen would always ask about ones interests in music, literature, art and encourage them to broaden their cultural horizons. Many of you here today had such discussions with Helen.

She would recount the seminal political struggles through which she and our generation didnt just live through, but were active participants. The struggle against black nationalism and all forms of nationalism used to divide the working class; the fight against Tim Wohlforths renegacy; the move of the party headquarters from New York City to Detroit after the political assassination of Tom Henehan; the split with the Workers Revolutionary Party; the launching of the WSWSthese are but a few of the many events that shaped Helen. Helen played a critical role in shaping and influencing those events as well.

Helen Halyard (left) and Sheila Brehm in Windsor, Canada, in 2006

Helen was like a sister to me and also an important part of my family, who got to know her and love her. Helen and I grew up together in the sense that the seminal political events of our time and the historical and theoretically guided political campaigns of the party in the working class were always aimed at differentiating our party from all those who betrayed the historic interests of the working class.

We met in 1971 and developed a close personal bond both through our political experiences as well as through our shared personal tragedies and joys that life brings over a period of 52 years. Like everyone here, I will miss the irreplaceable Helen, but I know that her achievements will live on in our fight today under conditions of the emergence of the international working class. Millions are now protesting on every inhabitable part of the globe against imperialist genocide in Gaza and against their own governments who are waging war against the working class while at the same time they are accomplices of the Israeli regime.

From left, Ann Lore, Joanne Laurier, Nancy Hanover, Helen Halyard, Linda Tenenbaum, Sheila Brehm and Jeannie Cooper, in 2009

The outpouring of support we have received for comrade Helens life-long struggle testifies to the very changed relationship of the IC to the international working class. The very advanced stage of the political, social, and economic crisis of the world capitalist system positions the ICFI as a powerful pole of attraction in the struggle of the working class to end the source of imperialist genocide and war, inequality, and the aggressive assault on democratic rights.

Leon Trotsky wrote Son, Friend, Fighter after his son, Leon Sedov, was assassinated in 1938 by the Stalinist GPU agent Mark Zborowski. While Trotskys tribute to his son was written under very different conditions, if I might take the liberty of paraphrasing Trotsky in my tribute to Helenmy dearest comrade and best friend. For revolutionary youth and workers of all countries! Helen will rightly live in the hearts of all those who work, suffer and struggle for a better world.
Leading members of the SEP (Sri Lanka) greet SEP (US) National Secretary Joseph Kishore, December 6, 2023

A delegation of Socialist Equality Party (Sri Lanka) warmly welcomed the National Secretary of the SEP (US), Joseph Kishore, at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo in the early hours of Wednesday. Kishore will address two meetings, in Colombo and Peradeniya, entitled Leon Trotsky and the Struggle for Socialism in the 21st Century, commemorating the centenary of Trotskyism.

The delegation, led by SEP (Sri Lanka) General Secretary Deepal Jayasekara, held a brief public reception at the arrival lobby of the airport, in which leading SEP and IYSSE members took part. They displayed a banner reading Welcome Joseph Kishore National Secretary of the Socialist Equality Party (US), while Jayasekara welcomed him with a bouquet of flowers.

SEP (US) National Secretary Joseph Kishore arrives in Sri Lanka, speaks on significance of Trotskyist anniversary meetings.

Kishore was interviewed by a reporter from the WSWS. He noted that the history of the Trotskyist movement in the US and in Sri Lanka are intimately interconnected in the history of the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI).

Its a great honor to come and meet with comrades who have played such a long and distinguished role in the history of the ICFI, Kishore said, adding, The leaders of the Sri Lankan movement are justly honored throughout the International Committee.

Kishore specifically paid tribute to the late general secretaries of the SEP in Sri Lanka, Keerthi Balasuriya, who died 36 years ago this month, and Wije Dias, who passed away on July 27, 2022.

In relation to the themes of the upcoming meetings, Kishore explained, We are passing through a period of really explosive crisis... The attention of the world has been focused on Gaza, and the genocide is escalating. They have now resumed bombing after the so-called pause, killing hundreds a day, with the full support of the United States.

Kishore went on to elaborate, These meetings are marking the centenary of the Trotskyist movement, of the founding of the Left Opposition in October 1923 by Leon Trotsky. We have had meetings throughout the world addressed by comrade David North, the chairman of the SEP (US) and the chairman of the International Editorial Board of the World Socialist Web Site.

He noted that this year is also the 70th anniversary of the founding of the ICFI on the basis of the Open Letter of James P. Cannon. The history of the Trotskyist movement is the history of the socialist movement. It has such a profound impact on the politics of Sri Lanka in particular, both heroic and also the betrayals.

Kishore concluded, You cannot understand the history of the 20th century without understanding the history of the Trotskyist movement. And you cannot understand what is happening now without understanding that history.

Dates and Venues:

Peradeniya

December 7 at 3 p.m.

Hall No. 86, Department of Political Science,

University of Peradeniya

Colombo

December 10 at 3 p.m.

New Town Hall, Colombo
A hysterical campaign against three Sydney Theatre Company (STC) actors who wore Keffiyehs during a curtain call on November 25 has encountered opposition including from within the artistic fraternity.

Mabel Li (left), Harry Greenwood (right) and Megan Wilding (second right) wearing keffiyeh scarfs in the Sydney Theatre Companys production of The Seagull [Photo: Instagram]

The actorsMabel Li, Megan Wilding and Harry Greenwooddid not say anything, as they wore the Keffiyehs while receiving an ovation for their performance of Anton Chekhovs The Seagull. They had previously signed open letters, condemning the bombardment of Gaza, and have posted on social media to express their solidarity with the besieged Palestinians.

The donning of the Keffiyehs was rapidly seized upon by the Murdoch media, Zionist lobby groups and even establishment politicians, who presented it as an outrage, bordering on a hate crime. Two STC board members resigned, the theatre company issued multiple public apologies and cancelled another performance of The Seagull last Wednesday on the ludicrous grounds of ensuring the safety of those who were to attend.

The craven actions of STC management notwithstanding, there is a sense that the proponents of Israel may have overextended themselves. By launching a venomous witch-hunt against talented young actors, whose only crime was to wear Arabic scarves, they inadvertently pointed to the entirely fraudulent attempts to delegitimise all opposition to the genocide and to equate criticism of the Israeli regime with antisemitism.

On social media, many have noted the essentially racist character of the campaign against the actors. In no other context would it be considered acceptable to demand a ban on an article of clothing, or to attack those who wear it, because it is associated with a particular ethnic group or nationality.

Indicating the growing opposition, Louise Adler, a book publisher and director of the Adelaide Writers Week, strongly condemned the witch-hunt and defended the actors in a Monday night interview on the Australian Broadcasting Corporations 7:30 program. The interview was all the more striking, given that 7:30 and all the public broadcasters news and current affairs programs have aggressively promoted Israel Defence Forces talking points over the past two months.

Louise Adler on ABCs 7:30, December 4, 2023 [Photo: Australian Broadcasting Corporation]

Adler stated that it seemed to me that STC management wasnt taking great care over supporting their actors and that they seemed to be more concerned with pacifying donors. She added: The attention seemed to be on donors taking their cheque books and walking away and I think arts organisations need to have some clarity about the moral compromises they're prepared to make when they take donors support.

The interviewer, Laura Tingle, asked: Is it reasonable nonetheless to say, well the audience is taking offence and we have to take that seriously?

Adler, bluntly, responded: So the question is why would the audience take offence? The three actors had indicated at their curtain call that we stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people and what is going on under occupation at this point in time. And for donors, in the main, captains of industry with the capacity to support the arts, to feel threatened by that declaration in the comfort of an air-conditioned theatre seems to be remarkable and disturbing.

Tingle asked whether actors and artists should bring their political views to the theatre.

Adler insisted that this had occurred throughout the history of art. She recalled great anti-war artworks, including Picassos Guernica, depicting the horror of fascist bombardment during the Spanish civil war. This was part of a long and honourable and important tradition of artists being engaged in the world they inhabit. Adler commented that art that is not made of this world, that doesnt take into account this world, feels to me rather vacuous.

Tingle noted that many of the complaints about the wearing of the Keffiyehs had emanated from the Jewish community, and patrons of that background who said they were made uncomfortable by the scarves.

Adler responded by noting that this was part of a long and assiduous campaign by those who support Israel and its government, successive governments and policies to suggest that any criticism of Israel is intolerable and inappropriate. The continuous conflation of antisemitism and anti-Zionism, she warned, was aimed at making it impossible to be a critic of Israel and its occupation.

Adler, who happens to be Jewish, recounted her own experiences. When in the early 2000s she wrote a review of the memoirs of Edward Said, the well-known Palestinian author, Israels then ambassador to Australia had demanded a private meeting with her to warn against airing Israels dirty linen in public.

Adler had later published a book by Antony Lowenstein, a Jewish author and sharp critic of Israel, on the influence of the Zionist lobby. A campaign had been mounted, Adler said, extending to federal parliamentarians, for her to be sacked from the University of Melbourne. Similarly, when the Adelaide Writers Week featured Palestinian authors earlier this year, there was a push for them to be censored.

In her concluding comments, Adler said it was a tragedy that those calling for peace, justice and self-determination for the Palestinian people were being silenced. She noted that everybody brings their own personal history to these issues.

My grandfather was murdered in Birkenau because he was Jewish. My father entered the resistance in Paris when he was 14-years of age and his legacy to me is that it is important and it is vital for us not to look away. Six million Jews had been murdered in the Holocaust as the world looked away, Adler said, so it is incumbent upon humanity to look at what is happening in Gaza now and to say we will not accept this, we will say no, not in our name.

Tingle herself had published an article on the ABCs website Saturday, which included perceptive points on the STC issue and the broader official campaign over purported antisemitism. She wrote that the response to the actors had revealed a dangerous reductionism in political debates in Australia.

This trend, which has now visibly spread to the arts, has been supercharged in recent weeks by politicians who should know better and some media outlets who are fanning outrage and seem to be emphasising only a rise in anti-Semitism in Australia without equally acknowledging a rise in Islamophobia.

Tingle added: Support for civilians caught up in the conflictand a wish for the conflict to endis taken as endorsement of Hamas, and hostility towards all Jewish people, including members of the Australian Jewish community.

In a Sydney Morning Herald opinion piece on Friday, Ian Maxwell, associate professor of theatre and performance studies, took up the claim that actors should not comment on world events.

Pointing to the hypocrisy of the campaign, Maxwell wrote: We expect them [actors] to take on risks, to present the big ideas, to pose questions, to stimulate and to challenge. But we also require that they keep their mouths shut, to park their own beliefs and values at the stage door. To behave as good employees, and not to rock the boat.

The critical comments, as far as they go, point to a deeper and more far-reaching growth of opposition, especially among workers and young people. The genocidal actions of the Israeli regime are exposed for what they are, as are all those forces backing the mass murder, including the Australian Labor government.

The supporters of the war crimes may occupy the top rungs of the political and media establishment, and control the levers of official public opinion, but they cannot control what the vast mass of the population thinks.
For over three hours on Tuesday, the presidents of Harvard, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and University of Pennsylvania testified in front of the House Education and Workforce Committee in a hearing titled Holding Campus Leaders Accountable and Confronting Antisemitism.

Harvard President Claudine Gay, left, speaks as University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill listens during a hearing of the House Committee on Education on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023 in Washington. [AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein]



Tuesdays hearing, led by Rep. Virginia Foxx (Republican-North Carolina), operated on the false premise that opposition to Zionism, the genocide in Gaza and chanting the phrase, From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free, is equivalent to antisemitism and calls for exterminating Jews.



This is the second hearing held by Congress since October 7 that has featured presidents from universities aimed at curbing the democratic rights of students and the population as a whole, who, in the face of police violence, right-wing intimidation and threats to future job prospects, have protested by the millions against the nearly two-month-long US-NATO-backed Israeli genocide in Gaza.



As of this writing over 16,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 7 with another 43,000 injured. On Tuesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged that it is killing at least two civilians for every alleged Hamas fighter killed. Since the initiation of the Israeli ground offensive on October 27, the IDF has acknowledged the deaths of 83 soldiers.



Setting the tone for the McCarthyite proceedings that were to follow, after holding a moment of silence for those killed by Hamas terrorists, Rep. Foxx warned the university presidents that they would have to atone for the many specific instances of vitriolic, hate-filled antisemitism on your respective campuses. She said that institutional antisemitism and hate were the poisoned fruits of your institutions cultures.



Completely ignoring the role of the Biden administration and the US government as a whole in facilitating the ethnic cleansing in Gaza, Foxx proceeded to play a short video featuring students protesting the genocide on various campuses. Ominous music was added to the video track in order to make the protests appear sinister. After playing the video, Foxx attacked the students and warned the witnesses that it was time to delineate good from evil and right from wrong.



Closely adhering to the foreign policy objectives of US imperialism, in each of their opening statements, the university presidents condemned Hamas and pledged to combat antisemitism on their campuses by working with the police, the FBI and/or the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). None of them spoke out against the Israeli genocide or condemned the role of the Republican Party in cultivating, and promoting antisemitic, white supremacist and fascistic forces in the US and internationally.



Instead, throughout the hearing the presidents adapted to the right-wing politicians. Asked by Rep. Foxx if Israel had the right to exist as a Jewish state, Harvard University President Dr. Claudine Gay, MIT President Dr. Sally Kornbluth and UPenn President Elizabeth Magill all agreed that it did. None of the university presidents, or politicians on the committee, spoke in favor of a multi-ethnic state with equal protections and rights for all, regardless of religion or national origin.



In her brief comments, Rep. Pramila Jayapal (Democrat-Washington) laundered bogus statistics from the ADLan ultra-Zionist, quasi-state intelligence agency that falsely equates opposition to Zionism as antisemitismin order to bolster Republican claims that public and private universities in the United States were hotbeds of Jew-hatred.



The ADL found that reports of antisemitism have quadrupled, Jayapal said, adding, We are seeing that reflected on college campuses.



Later on in the hearing, Rep. Jim Banks (Republican- Indiana), one of 147 Republicans who voted to overturn the election following Donald Trumps January 6 coup, attacked UPenn President Magill for refusing to preemptively censor and cancel a Palestinian literature festival held on the campus in September. Prior to the event, the UPenn administration blocked international rock superstar and lifelong defender of Palestinian and human rights, Roger Waters, from appearing in-person on a festival panel.



Banks slandered Waters as someone who publicly uses anti-Jewish slurs and desecrated the memory of Anne Frank. He questioned Magill, Why in the world would you host someone like that on your college campus?

Roger Waters performing in Sao Paulo



Magill accepted Banks false characterization of Waters and replied that prior to the event I issued a statement calling out the antisemitism of some of the speakers. Pressed by Banks if that specifically included Waters, Magill replied, Roger Waters is among them.



Despite her best efforts to appease the fascistic Banks, the Republican congressman ended his questioning with an unhinged tirade accusing Magill of creating a safe haven for antisemitic behavior and that UPenn was a hot bed of antisemitism.



Immediately after Banks, New Jersey Democratic Rep. Donald Norcross likewise attacked Magill over allowing the Palestinian Writes Literature Festival and like Jayapal, used bogus facts from the ADL to slander opponents of genocide and racism as antisemitic.



Given that the ADL identified many of the speakers, 25, as antisemitic, Norcross said, Dr. Magill, did you have the power to stop this event?



Magill said she does not preemptively censor or cancel the thousands of speakers they have on campus every year even if she disagrees with their views.



In hindsight do you think that was the proper decision? Norcross pressed. Magill said that canceling that conference would have been very inconsistent with academic freedom and free expression, despite the fact that the views of some of those that came to that conference I find very, very objectionable because of their antisemitism.



Unsatisfied with her answer, Norcross provocatively asked if he would allow UPenn academic departments to sponsor a conference that featured 25 speakers that the NAACP identified as racist?

Emboldened by Democratic committee members refusal to differentiate between anti-Zionism and antisemitism, in his comments, far-right Rep. Bob Good (Republican-Virginia) attacked what he called a deeply troubling tendency on the left to equate antisemitism with Islamophobia. Despite the fact that three Palestinian college students were just shot in Vermont less than two weeks ago, Good claimed there was no equivalence and that Jewish hate crimes are far higher and that it was dishonest to compare the two.



Tuesdays hearing coincided with an overwhelming bipartisan, 311 to 14, vote by the House to adopt a resolution that equated all opposition to the apartheid state of Israel and Zionism as antisemitism.



House Resolution 894, introduced by Rep. David Kustoff (Republican-Tennessee) not only adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliances reactionary definition of antisemitism but stated clearly and firmly that anti-Zionism is antisemitism.



Only one Republican, libertarian Thomas Massie (Kentucky) and 13 Democrats voted against the resolution. Instead of opposing the measure, 92 Democrats voted present, including Representative Jerrold Nadler (Democrat-New York), who had previously criticized the resolution for equating political opposition to Zionism to antisemitism, noting the opposition of orthodox Hasidic Jews and the early Jewish labor movement to the Zionist project.
Thousands turned out at protests in Toronto and across the country over the weekend to denounce the resumption of Israels genocidal onslaught against the Palestinians in Gaza and demand an immediate ceasefire.

A speaker at the Toronto rally on December 2

As many as 20,000 Gazans have been killed in two months of unrelenting bombing and a ground invasion of the narrow coastal enclave by the Israel Defense Forces backed by the United States, Canada and the European imperialist powers. Israels assault has targeted refugee camps, residential buildings, schools and hospitals in pursuit of the final solution to the Palestinian question, i.e., clearing the population from Gaza and forcing them into exile.

Millions around the world, horrified by the unfolding carnage, have turned out in the largest wave of anti-war protests since the US invasion of Iraq in 2003. This has included more than 50,000 who rallied outside the parliament building in Ottawa on October 25 to demand the Liberal Trudeau government support a ceasefire.

The political establishment and mainstream media, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, have repeatedly rejected calls for a ceasefire as pro-Hamas, and slandered those who oppose this genocide as antisemitic. In the face of this rabid witch-hunt, workers and young people have continued to protest.

On Saturday, approximately 2,000 pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered at Nathan Phillips Square in downtown Toronto outside city hall, where they chanted slogans, including Palestine will be free and Free the people, free the land, no peace on stolen land, before marching down Bay Street and blocking an intersection for an hour. Organizers from Toronto4Palestine encouraged attendees to sign a petition appealing to the Trudeau government to abandon its support for the Israeli government.

Cassidy, who was attending her first protests since the Israeli Defence Forces onslaught began in early October, told the World Socialist Web Site, Im here to protest against Israel for the terrible things they are doing to the Palestinian people, they are murdering them, they are bombing Gaza, they are destroying homes, they are literally leaving them to starve, this is unacceptable! Netanyahu needs to go to jail. What he is doing is absolutely deplorable.

Cassidy

All this is really is a genocide and the United States is helping fund it, they are sending weapons and soldiers. Genocide Joe is lying for Netanyahu and both of them need to go to jail! Israel is a puppet to America and everyone needs to wake up to that.

She was particularly incensed by the claim that those who oppose the genocide are antisemitic, responding, Any person that is defending Palestine, this is not antisemitism. It is defending people who are a victim of genocide. And Im upset at the fact that people are being arrested for saying From the River to the Sea. This is not ok, where is the free speech? We are losing our right to free speech.

Responding to the Palestinian trade unions call for workers to block the shipment of war materiel to Israel, Cassidy explained, I am all for the working class joining together and standing up for the rights of Palestinians. We have the right to say No, we do not want to build this, we do not want to do this. Lets go on strike, lets stand up for the innocent. We are not going to fund any weapons, we are not going to give them weapons, we are not going to build bombs. Everybody has the right to say No in a position like this. And I genuinely agree with workers going on strike.

A section of the protests in Toronto on December 2

Hundreds also rallied Saturday on the steps of the Vancouver Art Gallery in Vancouver, British Columbia to call for a ceasefire, for the eighth weekend in a row, before marching through downtown. Other protests included a #bike4palestine bike rally and a protest outside an Indigo bookstore. Eleven people, including three suspended York University employees, face criminal charges for a protest last month in Toronto against the CEO of Indigo Books and Music Heather Reisman over her financial support for the IDF.

On Sunday an estimated 400 people turned out for a pro-Palestinian protest outside city hall in Calgary, Alberta. The peaceful protesters, who chanted Palestine will be free and Ceasefire now, were confronted by Zionist counter-protesters who provocatively and grotesquely depicted a rape by an individual dressed as a Hamas fighter.

In Montreal, Quebec, about a dozen demonstrators were arrested on Friday morning after blocking Canadian National railroad tracks in solidarity with Gaza and to demand the Trudeau government end its support for Israel. A statement posted online by the group explained their action was part of a growing movement across the country to block railway tracks in order to interrupt Canadian support for the genocide being committed by Israel in Gaza and the increasing violence against Palestinians in the West Bank.

Israel could not commit all these crimes without the material and political support of the West, including our Canadian government. This is ethnic cleansing. This is genocide. There must be a permanent ceasefire now, activist and protest participant Sarah Aly stated.

The decision to cancel the screening of a documentary critical of Israel in the face of complaints by Zionist groups was reversed this week amid protests. The Westdale cinema in Hamilton, Ontario announced Friday that the screening of the documentary Israelism would go forward this week as initially planned. After careful review, we determined that there was no credible evidence that the screening would cause harm to anyone in our community, a statement from the theaters board of directors explained. We also acknowledge that the screening of this film was important to many in our community.

The film, made by Jewish filmmakers, follows two young American Jews who were raised with an idealistic view of Israel but come face to face with the brutal reality of the repression of the Palestinians. The screening was organized by Rabbi David Mivasair, a member of Independent Jewish Voices, a group which is critical of Israel.

Meanwhile a national rally in support of Israel in Ottawa on Monday drew just a few thousand people, despite receiving considerable media hype. It was addressed by leading members of Parliament, including Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievres deputy Melissa Lantsman and Liberal MP Anthony Housefather.
The US Department of Justice announced the filing of murder-for-hire charges last month against Nikhil Gupta, a 52-year-old Indian citizen who it alleges was recruited by an unnamed Indian government official to orchestrate the assassination of a US citizen of Indian origin active in the Khalistan (Sikh separatist) movement.

Gupta, who is described as being involved in drug and arms trafficking, was arrested on June 30 in Prague by Czech authorities at Washingtons request and extradited to the US.

The November 19 indictment of Gupta comes on the heels of the gunning down of a prominent Indo-Canadian proponent of Khalistan, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, by two gunmen in Vancouver last June 18.

In September, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took the extraordinary step of publicly accusing state operatives of Indiaa country Ottawa has been assiduously courting for geo-strategic and economic reasonsof being responsible for Nijjars murder. This provoked a major diplomatic spat between New Delhi and Ottawa, with the Narendra Modi-led BJP government denouncing Trudeau for making baseless and scurrilous allegations and announcing a series of diplomatic reprisals against Canada.

Assassinated Indo-Canadian Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar [Photo: Wikipedia]

According to the US indictment, Nijjar worked closely with the unnamed person whose killing Gupta was tasked with organizing.

Canadian government officials and representatives of its national security apparatuswhich works in the closest collaboration with the CIA, FBI, NSA and Pentagonhave been quick to point to the US indictment as corroboration of Trudeaus claim. All the more so as the indictment suggests the Indian government official had targeted a whole series of North American-based leaders of the Khalistan movement for assassination. It even cites him telling Gupta in a recorded phone conversation that they had arranged for some other guy to do the job  in Canada.

The Biden administration, meanwhile, is doing its utmost to play down and contain the fallout from the explosive DOJ indictment.

Speaking to reporters last Thursday, US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby baldly declared that the indictment would have no impact on Indo-US relations and all but announced that Washington will accept whatever explanation the Modi government comes up with as to how and why an Indian official came to be organizing assassinations on US soil.

Kirby specifically praised the Modi governments announcement that it has instructed a senior committee to probe the matter. Indias media is already trying to attribute the contract assassination plot to a rogue element in Indias foreign intelligence agency, RAW.

I would just say two things, Kirby concluded. India remains a strategic partner, and were going to continue to work to improve and strengthen that strategic partnership with India. At the same time, we take this very seriously.

Kirbys muted reaction has nothing to do with any sense of embarrassment over US imperialisms own record of bloody global crimes, including torture, kidnapping and assassinations. Had the DOJ brought an indictment implicating Moscow, Beijing, Tehran or another regime viewed as an obstacle to Washingtons drive for global hegemony in a murder plot, the Biden administration would be thundering about the sanctity of international law and threatening sanctions, if not more.

India, however, is a global strategic partner of Washington. For more than two decades Democratic and Republican administrations alike have worked to harness India to the US military-strategic offensive against China. India has been drawn into an ever tighter web of bilateral, trilateral and quadrilateral security ties with the US and its principal Asia-Pacific allies, Japan and Australia. Washington is also promoting India as an alternate production chain hub to China and seeking to transform it into a cheap labour armaments producer for the US and its allies.

President Joe Biden led Washington in feting India's far-right prime minister, Narendra Modi, when he visited Washington for a state visit last June. [AP Photo/Evan Vucci]

In August, the Modi government let it be known that at Washingtons behest, Indias military top brass was concretizing what steps it would take to assist the US if and when war erupts with China.

The unsealed indictment in the US District Court for the Southern District of New York states that Earlier this year, an Indian government employee (CC-1), working together with others, including GUPTA, in India and elsewhere, directed a plot to assassinate on US soil an attorney and political activist who is a US citizen of Indian origin residing in New York City (the Victim).

According to the indictment, the Indian official identified as CC-1 had told Gupta that various criminal cases against him in India would be made to go away if he orchestrated the victims assassination. It further says that the official had authorized $100,000 for carrying out this assassination. Gupta then approached a so-called go-between to put him in touch with a contract killer. However, the go-between was an informant of an unidentified US law enforcement agency, and the hitman he arranged for Gupta to meet was an undercover agent of the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Although the indictment does not name the target of the assassination plot, the Washington Post has identified him as Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the founder of and attorney for the New York-based Sikh separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). Like the assassinated Nijjar, Pannun is among the principal organizers of an ongoing referendum among Sikhs outside of India on whether the Punjab, the Sikh-majority state within the Indian Union, should secede and form a religio-communal Sikh stateKhalistan (the land of the pure).

The Indian government has labelled Pannun and other referendum organizers as terroristsa charge they vehemently denywithout providing so much as a shred of evidence.

Sikhs for Justice also calls for justice for the thousands of innocent Sikhs massacred in Delhi and elsewhere in north India in 1984. This pogromwhich occurred in the immediate aftermath of Prime Minister Indira Gandhis assassination in retaliation for the Indian militarys invasion of the holiest Sikh shrine, the Golden Templewas orchestrated by senior Congress Party leaders, who have never been indicted let alone convicted.

The Khalistan movement is a reactionary communalist movement. Its roots lie in the British Empires manipulation of religious identities as part of its divide-and-rule strategy and the 1947 communal partition of the subcontinent into an expressly Muslim Pakistan and a predominantly Hindu India. It became a significant factor in Indian politics in the 1970s due to the machinations of Indira Gandhi and her then dominant Congress Party. But when it escaped their political control and became an armed insurgency, they brutally suppressed the Khalistani militants, while running roughshod over the rights of ordinary Sikhs.

Today the Khalistan movement has little support among the Sikh masses of India. However, the rabid Hindu supremacism promoted by the Modi government and its Hindutva allies undoubtedly grates on the sensibilities of Sikhs, especially the more religious. Overseas, especially in the US and Canada, which is home to the largest number of Sikhs outside India, the Khalistan movement continues to be promoted by more conservative and generally better off Sikhs.

Canadian-based Sikh separatists were responsible for the horrific June 23, 1985 terrorist bombing of an Air India flight from Montreal to London, in which all 329 passengers and crew died.

The US indictment suggests that the Modi government, buoyed by the support it has received from the US, Canada and the other Western imperialist powers, now believes it can act with impunity, not just at home, but abroad in repressing and even physically eliminating political opponents it designates as terrorists.

In releasing the indictment of Gupta, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York Damian Williams postured as a great sentinel of the rule of law. We will not tolerate, he declared, efforts to assassinate US citizens on US soil and stand ready to investigate, thwart, and prosecute anyone who seeks to harm and silence Americans here or abroad.

Had Williams been more honest, what he would have declared is that the US ruling class and its state will not tolerate any foreign power violating its monopoly of state violence; and that while the US proclaims fealty to international law, when it comes to upholding its own predatory interests, as is now being demonstrated in its backing for the Israeli genocide in Gaza, it is a law unto itself.

Not only did the US, in the name of the war on terror, assert the right to kill with impunity those it deemed foreign terrorists through drone strikes. President Barack Obama boasted about assassinating Anwar al-Awlaki, a 40-year-old US citizen, in Yemen in September 2011. Two weeks later his administration murdered Awlakis 16-year-old American-born son.

It should come as no surprise that the Modi government, which rules India by openly thuggish methods, imprisoning journalists and activists under notorious catch-all UAPA anti-terrorism legislation, should adopt methods of state terror employed by Indias closest allies, US imperialism and the Zionist state of Israel. The Hindu-supremacist Modi regime, it should be noted, in addition to developing increasingly important military-security ties with Jerusalem, has an ideological-political affinity for Zionism, especially its ever-more pronounced fascistic wing, based on their common hostility to Muslims, religious exclusivism and outright criminality.

The US indictment has caused New Delhi pause. Whereas it dismissed Canadas charge that agents of the Indian government orchestrated Nijjars killing as absurd, motivated and an insult to Indian democracy, it has been quick to indicate that it takes the New York indictment very seriously. Washington, in pursuit of its own rapacious imperialist interests, above all, its anti-China war drive, has no doubt made it clear that it will help the Modi government bury the whole affair in exchange for assurances that there will be no future such transgressions.

In addition to setting up a high-level committee to supposedly probe the allegation made in the indictment, the Modi government, through a Foreign Ministry statement, said, India takes such inputs seriously since they impinge on our national security interests as well, and relevant departments were already examining the issue.

There is one further significant element in this whole sordid affair, one to which some media outlets have pointed. The Gupta indictment indicates US authorities had detailed prior knowledge of Nijjars assassination; yet no explanation has been provided as to why they apparently took no steps to inform Canada or otherwise prevent this cold-blooded murder.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of the Republic of Singapore Lawrence Wong in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

BEIJING, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- China is willing to work with Singapore to grasp the nature of bilateral relations and make greater contributions to regional stability and prosperity, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said on Wednesday.

Li made the remarks when meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of the Republic of Singapore Lawrence Wong in Beijing.

Noting that leaders of the two countries have announced to upgrade China-Singapore ties to an all-round high-quality future-oriented partnership earlier this year, Li said bilateral cooperation in various fields has made great progress, showing new momentum, new vigor and vitality.

China stands ready to work with Singapore to follow the strategic guidance of the leaders of the two countries, uphold high-level strategic mutual trust, and promote high-quality and mutually beneficial cooperation to better benefit the two peoples, he said.

Li called on the two sides to take the further upgrading of the China-Singapore free trade agreement as an opportunity to make more achievements in the fields of digital economy, green development, financial service and ocean energy cooperation.

The Chinese premier called on the two sides to promote the building of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, strengthen people-to-people exchanges, and take the lead in high-quality Belt and Road cooperation.

China is willing to work with Singapore and other regional countries to enhance unity and coordination, and advance the negotiations on Version 3.0 China-ASEAN Free Trade Area to facilitate regional economic integration, Li said.

Wong said Singapore attaches great importance to its relations with China and is willing to work with China to enhance high-level communication, promote practical cooperation in economy and trade, investment, green development and digital economy, and play a positive role in safeguarding regional peace, stability and development. 
ANKARA, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- At least 41 historical artifacts of Anatolian origin that were illegally taken out of Turkiye are being returned to the country from the United States, a Turkish cabinet minister announced on Wednesday.

"As a result of successful collaboration with the Manhattan District Attorney's Office and the Department of Homeland Security's investigation unit, a total of 41 cultural assets, including bronze heads, busts and silver figurines, are returning home," Turkiye's Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy wrote in a post on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

Ersoy said the artworks, which were smuggled into the United States, are scheduled to be brought to Turkiye at the end of the month.

The artifacts seized in the United States have been handed over to Turkish authorities in New York as part of Turkiye's cultural repatriation efforts, Turkiye's NTV broadcaster reported on Wednesday.

So far this year, Turkish authorities have secured the return of 3,059 historical artifacts from abroad, according to a statement released by Turkiye's Ministry of Culture and Tourism on Tuesday. 
LONDON, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Widespread industrial action in the United Kingdom (UK) continued into December with no sign of stopping amid disputes over pay, and the walkouts have disrupted travel plans and already strained public services.

Junior doctors in England will take further industrial action in late December and early January, and the six-day strike in January would be the longest in the history of the National Health Service (NHS), the British Medical Association (BMA) said on Tuesday.

"After five weeks of intense talks, the government was unable to present a credible offer on pay by the deadline," BMA Junior Doctors Committee co-chairs Robert Laurenson and Vivek Trivedi said in a statement, noting that they "will be ready and willing any time the government wants to talk."

Junior doctors' pay has been cut by more than a quarter since 2008, according to the BMA. Doctors were offered an additional 3 percent pay raise after recent talks, but the BMA said it would be unevenly spread across doctors' grades so it would still amount to pay cuts for many doctors this year.

Health and Social Care Secretary Victoria Atkins said on social media that the new strikes were "disappointing" and "will result in more disruption for patients and extra pressure on NHS services and staff as we enter a busy winter period, risking patient safety."

"If the Junior Doctors Committee calls off their strikes, we will immediately look to come back to the table to continue negotiations," Atkins added.

This week, rail passengers also face travel disruptions as the UK's train drivers' union ASLEF has decided on further walkouts.

"We are determined to win this dispute," Mick Whelan, ASLEF's general secretary, said in a statement, "and get a significant pay rise for train drivers who have not had an increase since 2019, while the cost of living, in that time, has soared."

A spokesperson for Rail Delivery Group, representing train operators, said in response that the ASLEF strikes "continue to result in huge disruption for our customers, staff and the hospitality industry," and "there could be more strikes in 2024."

The planned ASLEF strikes and the overtime ban will cost the hospitality sector at least half a billion British pounds (630 million U.S. dollars) in lost sales, bringing the total impact of the disruption to over 4 billion pounds, the trade body UKHospitality estimated.

Widespread strikes started in the summer of 2022 amid disputes over pay and working conditions. Latest official figures showed that 229,000 working days were lost because of labor disputes across the UK in September 2023, and the majority of the strikes were in the health and social work, and education sectors. 
When Ava DuVernay decided to tackle Nazi book burnings for her upcoming film Origin, the filmmaker didnt want to re-create the event in a Hollywood backlot  she chose to film in the exact location in Germany where the actual events took place in 1933.

Theres a square called Bebelplatz where the books were actually  there were tens of thousands of books  that were burned, DuVernay said during a spotlight conversation for TheWraps Power Women Summit on Tuesday, which was moderated by editor in chief and TheWrap CEO Sharon Waxman. Anything that was talking about freedom, basically injustice, all of that stuff was burned.

The director said the filming plan involved using a few thousand extras and the flying of Nazi swastikas on German soil (which is usually illegal), and she told German authorities were going to light a big fire and burn some books, and they said Yes. The lesson, DuVernay said: Dont be afraid to ask. Be prepared to talk about why and show the plan.

In Berlin on May 10, 1933, the German Student Union organized book burnings. Some 40,000 people crowded into the Bebelplatz square as German students wielded burning torches to create a massive bonfire of books. A memorial marks the spot today.

The book-burning scene was part of DuVernays ambitious Origin, a film inspired by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author Isabel Wilkersons 2020 New York Times bestseller book Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents. Over 37 days, DuVernays production team traveled to three different countries  India, Germany and southern region of the United States  to capture the story of how each society created an underclass that was abused, enslaved or exterminated.

When Hollywood studios passed on the project, DuVernay turned to private financing, ultimately securing backing from the Ford Foundation, and from billionaire philanthropists Laurene Powell Jobs at Emerson Collective and Melinda Gates of Pivotal Ventures.

We really just focused on not spending a year talking around town and pitching everyoneand getting turned down, DuVernay said. We just thought ahead and raised the money on our own.

She initially pitched Darren Walker, the president of the Ford Foundation, on a film exploring the inequities of society. After he agreed, she found the courage to call other people who were like-minded like Powell Jobs and Gates.

Jon Bernthal and Aujanue Ellis in Origin (ARRAY/Neon)

The film, which hits theaters in a limited release by Neon on Dec. 8 in New York and Los Angeles before a wide release on Jan. 19 made DuVernay the first Black American woman to have a film compete in the Venice Film Festival. And it is the first time that Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard), the actor in the main role, has had a starring role.

Despite landing an Oscar nomination for King Richard, Ellis lack of a leading role, until now, really speaks to the ways in which women of a certain age, especially women of color of a certain age are relegated to very particular supporting parts of our industry, DuVernay said. So Im proud that she took the mantle to get that baton.

Origin, which was both written and directed by DuVernay, details the life and work of Wilkerson as she was developing and writing Caste: The Origin of Our Discontents. In the book, Wilkerson poses the idea that caste and race arent synonymous or mutually exclusive. However, she states that the two can and do coexist in the same culture and serve to reinforce each other.

DuVernay noted Tuesday that Caste, which was published in 2020, is banned in some states. The book was banned in Texas in 2022 citing graphic content not suitable for young children.

In addition to Germany, DuVernays film centers on the lowest caste in India, the Dalit people , and the American south, where she recreated the Jim Crow era from the 1930s and 1940s. In addition to Ellis, the film features a large cast of acclaimed actors, including Jon Bernthal, Niecy Nash, Blair Underwood, Audra McDonald and Nick Offerman. Offerman plays a MAGA-hat wearing plumber, while Bernthal plays Wilkersons husband Brett.

DuVernay said she tried not to allow the emotion of the stories that Origin tells to bleed onto the set. I dont get emotional when I shoot she said. I get emotional when I write on the set I am Darth VaderThen I cry again when I get in the editing room.

The director said she hopes Origin sparks a need in people to be more proactive about seeking justice for oppressed people.

Its not enough for us anymore to talk or comment on a post, DuVernay said. We must step up and help the people who need us, and theres always someone in need.

Watch the full interview above.

For all of TheWraps Power Women Summit 2023 coverage, click here.

The post Ava DuVernay Recreated Nazi Book Burnings in Germany for Origin: Tens of Thousands of Books Were Burned | Video appeared first on TheWrap.
The California congressman  whose tumultuous time at the helm of the House GOP ended in an unprecedented recall vote  announced his impending retirement from the House in an op-ed on Wednesday

AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite Kevin McCarthy

Republican Rep. Kevin McCarthy announced on Wednesday that he will be resigning from Congress at the end of the year, just two months after being ousted as House speaker in an unprecedented rebuke from members of his own party.

In an essay for the Wall Street Journal revealing his decision to retire after nearly 17 years in the House, McCarthy suggested that even after he leaves, he will continue his efforts to help recruit new candidates for office. "The Republican Party is expanding every day," he wrote, "and I am committed to lending my experience to support the next generation of leaders."

The longtime California lawmaker, who spent nine months as the nation's third-highest-ranked government official, then seemingly slighted the U.S. political system, writing, "It often seems that the more Washington does, the worse America gets."

He continued: "I started my career as a small-business owner, and I look forward to helping entrepreneurs and risk-takers reach their full potential. The challenges we face are more likely to be solved by innovation than legislation."

Related: Kevin McCarthy Ousted as House Speaker in Unprecedented Recall Vote

Drew Angerer/Getty Then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy sits beside Vice President Kamala Harris while President Joe Biden delivers his 2023 State of the Union address

McCarthy's time at the helm of the House GOP was tumultuous, defined by a rare deadlocked House speaker election and, months later, a shocking vote to oust him from the role.

His removal as House speaker came after House Freedom Caucus member Matt Gaetz filed a "motion to vacate," which automatically triggered a recall vote against McCarthy. Gaetz's motion marked the first formal attempt to remove a House speaker in 113 years.

Related: Kevin McCarthy Allegedly Caught in Physical Altercation with Republican Who Ousted Him  Then a Chase Ensued

SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz speaks to reporters on Oct. 2, 2023, after announcing that he would be leading the charge to oust House Speaker Kevin McCarthy

Shortly after Gaetz filed the motion to vacate, McCarthy told him to "bring it on" in an X post. Gaetz then re-posted McCarthy's message, adding, "Just did."

Stripping McCarthy of his leadership position only required a simple majority in the House, effectively putting his fate in the hands of Democrats, who sided with the far-right rebels in the end.



Related: Kevin McCarthy Faces Recall Vote from Far-Right Republicans, a First in 113 Years: 'Bring It On'

Win McNamee/Getty Kevin McCarthy speaks to members of his caucus during the deadlocked House speaker election, in which a few Republican holdouts kept him from securing the position with ease

During McCarthy's short speakership, he faced roadblock after roadblock as GOP infighting continually reached new heights.

When Republicans narrowly regained the House majority in January, the party was immediately divided on who to elect as House speaker. The majority party's leader  at that time, McCarthy  is generally elected with ease, but far-right members refused to support him, resulting in the first deadlocked House speaker election in more than a century.

Related: Kevin McCarthy Faces Recall Vote from Far-Right Republicans, a First in 113 Years: 'Bring It On'

Rather than step back and make way for a more unifying Republican leader to assume the role, McCarthy insisted on becoming speaker and began making concessions to right-wing holdouts in order to earn their support.

By the time he secured the necessary votes to become speaker  which required a historic four days and 15 rounds of voting  he had conceded much of his power by promising Republicans that any one member could move to recall him if they were dissatisfied.

Related: Speaker McCarthy Privately Told Donald Trump That House GOP Will Expunge His Impeachments, Report Claims

Nathan Howard/Getty House Speaker Kevin McCarthy speaks with reporters after a meeting of the House Republican Conference three days before his ousting

History repeated itself after McCarthy's ouster, when the fractured House GOP was again at odds over who to elect as House speaker in his stead. Multiple candidates were nominated to replace McCarthy, each of whom failed to secure the necessary votes to win and was forced to withdraw from the race.

After weeks of congressional gridlock, Republicans' fourth choice for the role  little-known Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson, distinguished as one of the House's staunchest religious conservatives  emerged as the unlikely unity candidate and became the 56th speaker of the House.

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McCarthy, a Bakersfield, California, native, joined Congress as a representative for the San Joaquin Valley in 2007. He quickly rose through the ranks of Republican House leadership, serving as chief deputy whip, then majority whip, then majority leader.

McCarthy replaced Paul Ryan as the head of the House Republican Conference in 2019, serving as House minority leader until 2023, when he succeeded Nancy Pelosi as speaker.



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When American expat Ryan Berg arrived in Nanning, south China, his sleep schedule had to take a backseat to the various night time activities the city has to offer. From bonfire shows to boat rides, he's fully embracing the old expression "the night is still young."

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For an island nation with a total population of just over 376,000 inhabitants, Iceland has impressively positioned its local cinema internationally over the last decade. The latest in the countrys consistent output of acclaimed homegrown productions is the arresting historical drama Godland, the third feature from writer-director Hlynur Palmason and Icelands current entry at the Oscars in the Best International Feature Film category.

Palmasons most ambitious effort yet, Godland sees 19th century Danish priest Lucas (Elliott Crosset Hove) embark on a treacherous odyssey across Icelands vast and inhospitable terrain to oversee the construction of a Lutheran church. Throughout this gnarly excursion, the arrogant religious man, who drags along a photographic camera, will clash with Ragnar (Ingvar Sigurdsson), his rugged Icelandic guide far more attuned to natures indomitable power.

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Since Iceland was still a colony of the Kingdom of Denmark at the time, the auteur extrapolates the mens dueling relationship to explore the shared history between his homeland and the neighboring Scandinavian state, each of which has shaped him personally and artistically.

As a student in Iceland during the 1990s, learning Danish at school was compulsory for the filmmaker. Thats not the case anymore; his children can now choose which foreign tongue they want to pursue. When I was little, I had to learn it. For me it was a gift because I later on went to Denmark to study film, Palmason said. But nobody there speaks Icelandic or understands a word. We are so few in Iceland. The language is precious. Its fragile.

Based on the films opening title card, which explains that the story is inspired by the discovery of photos taken in Iceland in the 1800s, viewers may assume the events depicted in Godland actually occurred centuries in the past. But while Palmason did an extensive investigation on the period, both the images and the people on screen are pure fiction.

To get a sense of how seamen working on the boats that transported people back and forth between Iceland and Denmark then, he read plenty of traveling books. Details about their everyday activities  what they ate, where they slept, how they made coffee on a glacier  made the world more tangible for him before he started writing his own fictionalized account. Ultimately, however, seeking historical accuracy encumbered his process.

After a while of researching and reading a lot, I was becoming more and more stiff, and uncreative and the script was feeling more and more monotone, dialogue-heavy, religious, and a lot of things that I really didnt want it to be, said Palmason.

Filmmaker Hlynur Palmason

What ultimately convinced the filmmaker to continue on was the decision to have Lucas carry an early camera to document the trip. Palmason was intrigued by the types of photos such a character would take and by the situations surrounding the moments when he would capture those images of landscapes and humans. That idea gave the whole project a boost and it became much more desirable, but therefore also much more fictional, he said.

Theres a visceral quality to how nature is portrayed in Godland. At once brutal and miraculous, its duality mimics the worst and most inspiring traits in human nature. Palmason believes one timelapse in particular, focused on a death horse, illustrates this.

The form of a horse is beautiful, but when a horse dies, it also goes through a very brutal rotting phase where there are worms, he explained. But then the landscape around the horse gets nourished and then becomes luscious and green. Theres a lot of beauty in death and the whole film explores these opposites putting them up against each other.

That mesmerizing portrait of an animals decay, as well as another timelapse of Lucas, were shot two full years prior to principal photography so that he could witness the changing seasons. Palmason always scouts for locations as he writes his screenplays to immerse himself and draw inspiration directly from those spaces where he will eventually shot.

On the set of Godland

If I go to the locations very early on  I go there during summer, then during autumn, and winter, and spring  I can figure out what season the story is in, he said. I try to create a lot of ways to lose myself in the film and just hope that it takes over me.

Palmason started working on his three features thus far  Winter Brother (2017); A White, White Day (2019); and Godland  at the same time, switching his focus between projects every couple of months. He was able to do so because he always knew he was writing them for actors Crosset Hove and Sigurdsson, whom hed known since his film school days. The director remembers that back then his intentions were to collaborate with non-professional actors, but he changed his mind upon meeting his two male muses.

Danish-born Crosset Hove was the lead in Winter Brothers, playing a limestone miner on the brink of losing himself, while Icelandic thespian Sigurdsson served as the protagonist in A White, White Day where he embodied a widower convinced his wife was having an affair. Before coming together for Godland, the duo had starred in Palmasons 2013 short film A Painter, as recluse artist (Sigurdsson) and his maladjusted son (Crosset Hove).

Ive always written for what I know, and thats why our films are a bit homemade. Theyre very local. All of our wives and kids play supporting characters. The locations are places that I know personally, and the objects are often our things, Palmason explained. My films are totally fictional, but theres something about working with my surroundings that feels real. And that also makes them personal in a way, but not private.

Godland Courtesy Everett Collection

Despite taking place in different contexts and time periods, Palmason believes the three films are connected thematically (they all observe the world from a masculine perspective), and more importantly, that they are formally in synch. They have a similar body, he said. Theres a meditative potency to all of them achieved via the imagery he chooses to highlight as part of a visual language that feels profoundly tied to something profoundly elemental.

One unifying device present in all of Palmasons features is a montage of several tableaux vivants or portraits of the characters or meaningful objects in them. He doesnt always know where in the timeline he will place this sequence that sort of takes stock of all the significant parts of the narrative and gives each of them a moment of acknowledgment.

Often those scenes are like a place where you can take a deep breath before you go under into the story again, Palmasonsaid. They give the film a physicality. If theres a very important coffee cup or car or whatever, I always make a portrait of it.

Uncertain of whether Godland marks the last time hell used this signature motif, for now, Palmason will continue filming people, places, and things up close. To him, the atmosphere, temperament, and rhythm of a film are just as relevant as the themes it expresses. There are so many stories, so many characters I want to explore, but none of them are worth exploring if the form isnt interesting, he said. A film is not only story, but the form of it is also as important. And these things have to fit together for it to be cinema.

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Jean Michel-Jarre will have a tres merry Christmas and also offer some joy to the world, with the French electronic pioneer set to perform from Versailles on Dec. 25.

Presented by UNESCO and the French Ministry of Culture, the performance will happen from the Chateau de Versailles Hall of Mirrors, a UNESCO world heritage site, to celebrate the locations 400th anniversary.

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Called VERSAILLES 400, the show will happen in front of a live performance in the Hall of Mirrors, and also in virtual reality. Jarre will play while wearing a mixed reality headset, with the metaverse version of the show happening in a digital Hall of Mirrors. The virtual audience can connect through VR or on tablets and smartphones.

The show is designed as a tribute to French innovation that brings together current artforms and the art of the 17th century. Tickets for the live performance at Versailles start at 60, or $65.

The show will be filmed at the Chateau de Versailles and broadcast on French and international television channels, along with Jarres YouTube channel and in VR on the French VRROOM platform, all on Dec. 25, Christmas Day.

Versailles 400 is a hybrid concert and visual creation broadcast live from one of the worlds most beautiful locations, as well as in virtual reality in the metaverse, Jarre said in a press release. I hope the event will help promote our creative savoir faire and bring the world of French immersive creation to the forefront of collective culture.

The 75-year-old genre legend is not a stranger to playing in exotic locations. In 1981, he was the first Western musician to perform in China, landmark shows captured for the double album The Concerts In China. He was invited again, which he accepted in 2004, whereupon he played the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, concerts which beamed live on national television. Other shows have incorporated skyscrapers and city landmarks.

In 2020, President Emmanuel Macron awarded him the Commander of the Legion dHonneur, Frances highest order of merit. Earlier, he released the album Amazonia, a musical tribute to the Amazon rain forest, its inhabitants and the threats they face, and the companion to an exhibition by legendary photographer Sebastiao Salgado. Jarres most recent album, Oxymore, was released in 2022.

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It was time for Jennifer Stakes to decorate her home for the holidays, and she had everything she needed for her front porch in Kyle, Tex.: the strands of tiny red lights, the wreath, the tree and the 6-foot tall, animatronic, menacing horned demon. That's Krampus.

Most of her neighbors didn't know what Krampus was. Sometimes her Ring camera records the puzzled and delighted conversations of passersby who venture up to her porch for a closer look.

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"I've had some people say that, 'I'm going to bring my kids by, and I'm going to tell them if they're not good, this is what's going to happen,'" says Stakes. "I'm like, okay, if that's what you want to do to your kids."

Oh, you've never heard of Krampus?

He hails from the Alpine towns of central Europe, and wears a red cloak trimmed with white fur, like Santa Claus. But underneath those robes is the body of a hairy, horned goat-like monster, with spindly, sharp fingernails and a long, creepy, Gene Simmons-esque tongue. For centuries, according to regional folklore, he's been the bad cop to Saint Nick's good cop: Jolly old Kriss Kringle doles out the presents for good boys and girls. Krampus finds the naughty ones and beats them with sticks.

In Germany, Austria, Italy and Slovakia, you'll find people dressed as Krampus parading through the streets and pretending to menace the villagers for a celebration on Dec. 5, which is known as Krampusnacht, or Krampus Night. But in recent years, you may have seen Krampus stateside, too. He's running down the streets of Los Angeles, or Chicago, or even Birmingham, Ala. Or he's on your friend's ugly Christmas sweater, or the label of your craft beer (a Vancouver brewery's Krampus abbey dubbel is toffee-colored and pairs well with red meat).

Or you may see Krampus in a Christmas haunted house. Maybe you didn't know those existed, either.

You'd better watch out. You'd better not cry. Because Krampus isn't coming to a town near you - chances are, he's already there.

As more Americans learn about this child-punishing folkloric figure - an antihero, of sorts - they can't get enough of him.

Krampus "helps balance the Mariah Carey and the Hallmark Channel," says Jason Swarr. "It gives us a little bit of that spooky, that fun, that mysterious, that dark side of things. And we're still celebrating the purity of Christmas."

Swarr is one of the organizers of "A Christmas to Dismember," a Mesa, Ariz., holiday horror convention for which the centerpiece is an opportunity to take Santa-style photos sitting on Krampus's lap. Hundreds of people lined up this past weekend - some in matching sweaters, hoping to use the image in their Christmas cards.

Swarr has taken some turns in the Krampus suit himself.

Occasionally, he'd get "a dad or mom who'd come up and say, 'Hey, my kid, whew, he has been horrible this year. Can you scare him?'" He would always comply. "That's when you get his name, you get what he's done bad, and the kid's like, 'Wait, how do you know this?'"

But he'd never take it too far.

"I get less tears than Santa does," Swarr says. "I promise you."

There has always been a dark undercurrent to The Most Wonderful Time of the Year. When Andy Williams sang of those "Scary ghost stories and tales of the glories of Christmases long, long ago," he wasn't just talking about the spirits that visit Ebenezer Scrooge. Krampus is just one of a whole array of Christmas bad guys in Europe with pagan origins. There's also Frau Perchta, a witch who slits the bellies of Bavarian bad kids and stuffs their corpses with straw. Or Mari Lwyd, an anthropomorphic horse skull who goes door to door terrorizing the children of Wales. Or Gryla, an Icelandic ogre who, with her fearsome Yule Cat, rounds up the naughty children and cooks them in a soup.

But unlike the rest of them, Krampus is the one who has caught on in the United States. Perhaps that's because in traditional lore, he doesn't usually kill the kids - he just hits them. He's a disciplinarian.

Also: "He just looks cool," says Michael Garcia, who runs a Krampus-themed haunted house in Austin.

The first Krampus parades in America popped up in the early 2010s, says Cory Hutcheson, who teaches folklore studies at Middle Tennessee State University. The monster's popularity really began to ascend with the 2015 holiday horror film "Krampus," mostly panned by critics, but a cult favorite among scary movie aficionados.

Interest has grown as people celebrating Christmas look for a counterweight to all the holly jolly. In an era of climate doom and political nihilism and high-definition war beamed onto our phones, there's something about Krampus that feels more authentic.

"There have been a lot of dire things happening in the world," says Hutcheson. "So Krampus just seems like a good figure to sort of be our boogeyman during the holiday retail season."

That was partly the impetus for Grant Tatum to start a Krampus group around Birmingham, Ala., in 2021.

"The idea of sort of a sugarcoated Christmas, you know, felt like it needed something more in the wake of the pandemic," he says. "We really wanted to add some texture and depth to what that holiday experience could be."

Friends from a community theater group handmade their costumes and marched in a local holiday parade, to the befuddlement of spectators.

"The next day on one of the local neighborhood Facebook groups, there were a handful of moms that started ranting and venting a little bit about why their child was given a little bundle of switches," says Tatum. "And, 'Who were the people with horns growling at my kid?'"

Some community members who had heard of the tradition quickly came to his defense. The group marched in last year's parade, too, and this year will hold their own stand-alone event at a local brewery, with performances from folk musicians.

Not all communities have been welcoming. John Hurst works behind the scenes in Seattle-area haunted houses, and he and his friends were looking for a way to extend their Halloween fun. When he discovered Krampus, he reached out to a craftsman in Austria to purchase a traditional, hand-carved mask, and in both 2020 and 2021, he and some friends dressed up and walked around Leavenworth, a Washington town that prides itself on its Bavarian-style architecture.

But after 2021s event, a local business owner complained on social media about their presence, and in later comments, connected it to Satanism. The remarks were picked up by religious and conservative media. One story: "Washington town loses name of 'Christmas' in holiday festival, gains participation of Alpine Yule demons."

"I'm Christian," Hurst says. "But the Christian fanatics started contacting the city and threatening their jobs, threatening their livelihood. They started calling us, and getting hold of us on social media, and making death threats."

Hurst's group was not invited back the following year. They moved their event to the nearby town of Bremerton, where Krampus has been welcomed.

When Krampus crossed the pond, some aspects of his story were lost in translation.

A big difference with European Krampus is that he's often accompanied by St. Nicholas, who controls him with chains.

"Over here, we let them run free," says Hutcheson. (U-S-A! U-S-A!)

Americans have also expanded Krampus's powers and purpose. Instead of being "part of a complex of cultural practices that exist in really small communities in the Austrian Alps, we just kind of like him as: 'Oh, he can be the face of Scary Christmas,'" says Hutcheson.

Enter the Krampus haunted house.

When Garcia, the Austin haunted-house director, started learning about Krampus, he realized that haunted-house owners who aren't doing Christmas haunts are just leaving money on the table.

What emerged was "Krampus: The Fright Before Christmas," a three-part haunted attraction that has carried many storylines over the last few years, incorporating unrelated characters, such as Jack Frost, and inventing new ones, such as Belle, "the demon of the hall" (as in, the halls you deck).

Garcia's haunt offers a choose-your-own ending, with the option of naughty or nice. Naughty is an encounter with an especially fearsome Krampus, who has a hunchback, antlers and a mouth that resembles the Predator. Nice is a visit with Santa Claus - but he's a zombie.

"I was debating on having him holding up Krampus's chopped-off head," says Garcia.

Krampus merch has proliferated in recent years. There is Krampus liqueur, and all sorts of Krampus tchotchkes: stuffed animals, a "Krampus believes in you" mug, a Krampus nutcracker ($155!), "Merry Krampus" socks, and a wide assortment of ugly Christmas sweaters ("Merging so many different layers of, like, anti-Christmas Christmas together" notes Hutcheson). One parody shirt advertises a "Krampus Day Care Service." You can buy an elegant Krampus ornament for $75 at Bergdorf Goodman, or a campy one for $17 at Walmart.

"I have seen a Krampus-themed sex toy," says Hutcheson. A Google search reveals a subgenre of Krampus erotica. Something for everyone!

So are Americans, with their crass commercialism, appropriating Krampus? Hutcheson says that he's talked to a few people in Europe who find American Krampus distasteful.

"Maybe the whole thing is a bit exaggerated in America, but that doesn't bother us," emails Lillian Kutter, a member of the Bavarian Krampus group Oberpfalzer Schlossteufeln - which translates to "Upper Palatinate Castle Devils." The group, according to its website, currently has 29 active members who are available to spook your Christmas market: seven witches, six angels (four "big" and two "small"), 15 Krampuses and, of course, one "Upper Palatinate Santa Claus" to, you know, keep an eye on all those Krampuses.

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The woman was reportedly attempting to push her daughter onto a floating play platform when she was bitten in the leg

Photo  James R.D. Scott / Getty Images. This blue shark is one of about 270 species of ground sharks, a group of sharks that also includes hammerhead sharks.

A woman has died after she was seemingly attacked by a shark while swimming with her daughter in Mexico.

The 26-year-old, who is from the area, was swimming with her 5-year-old daughter off the coast of Melaque when the incident occurred on Saturday, according to Rafael Araiza, the head of the local civil defense office, per The New York Post and the Associated Press.

The mom was reportedly attempting to push her daughter onto a floating play platform about 75 feet (25 meters) from shore when she was bitten in the leg.

Officials were offering their support during a local swimming event when they learned of the incident at sea, Civil Protection officials in the municipality of Cihuatlan said, per the Post.

Related: How to Prevent a Shark Attack and What to Do If Bitten? An American Lifeguard Association Expert Weighs In

Local officials said the woman was found dead at the scene and that one of her legs had been severed, according to CNN.



The woman, who also sustained a large bite wound near her left hip, died from blood loss, Ariaza said, per the Post and AP.



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The victim was identified locally as Maria Fernandez Martinez Jimenez, according to the Post and The Evening Standard. The womans daughter was reportedly not harmed.

In a statement, the Cihuatlan municipal government warned people to avoid local beaches amid a red flag warning, according to CNN.



Related: Utah Man Gored by Bison He Tried to Pet on Neighbor's Property: 'For Sure a Reality Check'

Our priority is to guarantee the safety and wellbeing of every citizen, the government said, per the outlet.

Local beaches were closed to swimmers as a precaution following Saturdays deadly incident.

Jimenez was a former marine biology student, according to the Post and Standard.



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Note: The signing with author Stephanie Stokes has been rescheduled for February, to a date to be determined, a Palm Beach Book Store representative said.

It's a packed December for the Palm Beach Book Store, with a lineup of local and national authors set to meet with and sign books for readers, just in time for the holidays.

The Palm Beach Book Store on Royal Poinciana Way is hosting a packed calendar of book signings in December.

The store's calendar includes well-known names such as Laurence Leamer, whose work includes books on Palm Beach and society life, and Bret Baier, the Fox News anchor who recently dipped his toe into the world of graphic novels.

More: Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach debuts children's book about architect Mizner

The Palm Beach Book Store is at 215 Royal Poinciana Way, Palm Beach. The store this year marks its 35th anniversary on the island.

"The World at Your Table," by Stephanie Stokes

"The World at Your Table," by Stephanie Stokes, 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday

Interior designer Stokes returns with her second book, this one about how to present an appealing tablescape. The book, released in March, incorporates Stokes' suggestions for creative tabletop experiences that use items she collected during travels to Colombia, Hungary, Japan and the United Kingdom. Stokes is a former photojournalist and columnist for Architectural Digest.

"Hitchcock's Blondes: The Unforgettable Women Behind the Legendary Director's Dark Obsession," by Laurence Leamer

"Hitchcock's Blondes: The Unforgettable Women Behind the Legendary Director's Dark Obsession," by Laurence Leamer, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Saturday

Leamer  a best-selling biographer who has chronicled the lives of some of the biggest names in politics and pop culture, including "Mar-a-Lago: Inside the Gates of Power"  returns with this latest work of nonfiction, just released Oct. 10. In "Hitchcock's Blondes," Leamer examines the work of eight of the actresses who headlined the legendary director's films, including June Howard-Tripp, Ingrid Bergman, Grace Kelly and Janet Leigh.

"On the Water: A Century of Iconic Maritime Photography from the Rosenfeld Collection," by Nick Voulgaris III

"On the Water: A Century of Iconic Maritime Photography from the Rosenfeld Collection," by Nick Voulgaris III, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday

Author, entrepreneur, farmer and lover of sailing Voulgaris will present his latest book, "On the Water," a collection of photographs from the Rosenfeld Collection, which was built on the work of the Morris Rosenfeld & Sons photography business. While the collection, which now resides at the Mystic Seaport Museum in Connecticut, includes more than a million maritime photographs, "On the Water" culls the collection into a more manageable quantity of reproduced prints.

"The History Club: Duel Across Time," by Bret Baier

"The History Club: Duel Across Time," by Bret Baier, 3 to 4 p.m. Wednesday

Palm Beach resident and longtime Fox News anchor of the hit "Special Report with Bret Baier" will present his debut graphic novel for children, about a group of kids who use their knowledge of history to defeat an evil scheme.

The book, released Nov. 14, features illustrations by Marvin Sianipar.

"My Mother Shoots Elephants," by Chris Kellogg

"My Mother Shoots Elephants," by Chris Kellogg, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Dec. 14

Kellogg, an adventurer whose work has taken him from Palm Beach to Alaska and Africa, shares his mother Fernanda Wanamaker Munn Kellogg's life stories in "My Mother Shoots Elephants."

The elder Kellogg was a partner in a 30,000-acre farm in British West Africa with Ker and Downey John Sutton, and the younger Kellogg chronicles her adventures, encounters and push for conservation.

"A House That Made History: The Illinois Governor's Mansion, Legacy of an Architectural Treasure," by MK Pritzker and Michael S. Smith

"A House That Made History: The Illinois Governor's Mansion, Legacy of an Architectural Treasure," by MK Pritzker and Michael S. Smith, 5 to 6:30 p.m., Dec. 16

Pritzker, the first lady of Illinois, provides an inside look at the state's historic governor's mansion. Built in 1855, the mansion has seen many famed residents and visitors including Abraham Lincoln. The mansion includes local touches, like a hallway that is covered in a paper with a pattern reminiscent of a cornfield, and the folk-art mural in the Governor's Dining Room.

For more information, go to thepalmbeachbookstore.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: Palm Beach Book Store to host packed lineup of signings for December
Darren Lynn Bousman has directed four Saw moviesparts 2-4, and the Chris Rock-starring Spiraland while his latest, The Cello, has some gruesome elements, its a big departure for the filmmaker in many ways. Ahead of the films release December 8, io9 got a chance to ask him more.

Set mostly in Saudi Arabia, The Cello follows a talented but struggling musician (Samer Ismail) who acquires a gleaming new instrument from a stranger (Saws Tobin Bell) he meets after a performance. Unfortunately, while it makes stunning music, the cello is infused with deeply sinister powersand theres a mysterious conductor (Jeremy Irons) seemingly, ahem, pulling the strings.

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So like theres a child pelvic bone down there. And then there are finger bones up here. One of the tricks as a filmmaker on this movie was navigating the cultural differences between a Western audience and a Middle Eastern audience. One of the things that I really wanted to do was be subtle in a lot of the things like that, like the cello itself. But if you actually look at the cello in the movie, its just off a little bit. Not a lot, but a real cello player would notice the creative liberties that we took in doing it, from the strings that its using, to the tuning parts, to again just the bones that are kind of all throughout it.

io9: In America, we dont see a lot of horror from the Middle East and we also dont see a lot of movies of any genre from Saudi Arabia. How did this project come together and how did you come to be involved?

Bousman: Maybe its a midlife crisis thing, I dont knowI like things that feel dangerous, things that are not safe. And thats maybe one of the reasons that for me, after doing the Saw franchise, doing a movie [2008's Repo! The Genetic Opera] with Paris Hilton felt like the right thing to do, because I wanted to do something that was risky and kept me energized and on my toes. I got a phone call a few years back from a friend of mine, saying Ive got a weird movie for you, but you have to fly to Egypt to find out about it. And I said, Youre crazy. Im not doing that. And hes like, No, no, no. Just trust me. So after some back and forth, I decided its a free trip to Egypt, if nothing else. And so I fly to Egypt and I meet the writer, Turki Alalshikh, who the only way I can describe him is Quentin Tarantino. He had such an infectious, giddy excitement over movies, and his references wereI mean, it just felt like I was sitting with Quentin. He was using references, obscure movies from like the 80s that maybe five people besides me had seen. I just really liked this guy. So we talked about [The Cello], it was based on a book that he wrote, and how to translate that book into a movie for the Middle Eastern culture. After about two weeks of being in Egypt, he goes, Why dont we go and film this in Saudi Arabia? Originally I was like, Absolutely not. And he goes, Just come for 24 hours.

Image: Destiny Media Entertainment

When I got off the plane, I dont know what I was expecting, but there was Gucci, Armani, McDonalds, Starbucks, H&M, everything. It felt like I was in Los Angeles, outside of the heat. The heat was insane. But what excited me was that for years and years and years, there werent movies being released there. There was no music being released there. There was nothing. Art was not allowed like this. The idea of getting to make a movie that challenged some of those things that had so long not been allowed there excited me greatly. So we talk about the danger thing, about doing things that are dangerousI love that. And then, as well as that, I love the idea of getting another chance to work in a culture that I knew nothing about, and having to immerse myself in that culture. Ive done it a few times. I shot a TV series in Japan called Crows Blood. I did a primarily all-Spanish film. Ive done a movie that was 50% Thai. I just think its cool because its a way that Im growing as a person. Im seeing all these preconceived ideas I had just washed away, and getting to work in a completely different style than Im used to. And so while I love making sequels to popular franchises, I just felt alive [while making a movie like The Cello]. I felt like I was constantly learning and having to reinvent myself.



io9: Theres a good bit of gore in the movie, which is something youre known for. Were there limits placed on you for The Cello and what was your approach to filming the violence in the movie?

Bousman: That was something that I was kind of surprised by. There was nothing that they said I could not do. I think as Ive gotten older, and now that Ive had kids and maybe settled down a little bit, I look at violence differently than I looked at it 20 years ago. It used to be, How far can I push the envelope? Now, it doesnt affect me as much. Its more about, I would rather have a couple of really great scenes that make an audience uncomfortable than throughout the movie just being constantly grossed out. There was one kind of interesting, intense moment shooting, which was the last week that we were in Saudi before we moved to Prague, we got access to this place called Al-Ula. They had never allowed film or filmmakers in there, let alone Western filmmakers in there. And it is a sacred place, pre-dates Islam, pre-dates Christianity. It was built by the same people that did Petra in Jordan. We had to go through all of these precautions and red tape to be allowed there. And it was the one time that I was uncomfortable because I was like, We are in a very, very, very sacred place; we had a very violent scene planned there, and it didnt feel right. So we re-thought that kind of on the flybut that was, I guess, a self-regulation [because] I just felt uncomfortable [filming anything violent in that setting].

Image: Destiny Media Entertainment

io9: Most of the cast is actors that wont be familiar to Western audiences. But you also have Tobin Bell, whos obviously from Saw, so we can guess why you brought him on. How did Jeremy Irons get involved?



Bousman: We had a phone call. Its simple as that. Ive been a fan of the guy since the very first time I saw him as a kid in movies. Jeremy Irons walks in and he is the coolest guy in the room. Hes got thisnot only from the style of his dress, but the way he holds himself, the way he walks, the way he makes everyone feel like theyre the most important person in the room. He just has this swagger about him. And I think swagger shows itself in his character, Francesco. He is that person. In fact, I think a lot of the wardrobe he wears is his own wardrobe. I mean, thats what he looks like.

A fun story is that I needed to do reshoots late in the movie, so I call him up and I said, Hey, I really need to get another scene with you. And he goes, Why dont you come on down to my castle in Ireland? He lives a castle in Ireland. Thats just who he is. Thats how he is! But [at the start of working together], I said that one of the things that Im navigating is I didnt want there to be really any religious undertones in the movie, specifically when youre dealing with a film that has completely different belief systems, East and West. We did not ever want to call him the devil. So we just basically made him this very kind of supernatural, bigger than life character that is the coolest guy in the room. And thats who he is.

Image: Destiny Media Entertainment

io9: Did Samer Ismail, who plays the main character, Nasser, learn to play the cello for the role? Did you have on-set musicians giving him pointers?



Bousman: He was the last person cast. Hes a huge Syrian actor. He would be like the Syrian Brad Pitt. He had one month to basically learn English to the point where hes comfortable enough to speak it with Jeremy Irons. He can speak English, but to be able to hold his own, and [then also to] look like an expert cello player. So the month before coming to set, we flew a cellist out to him. He had to [play] cello every single day when he got to set; when everyone else would go out and hang out, he had to work with his cello person. Then every time he played on set, we had a cellist right under the camera that was basically pantomiming what he was supposed to be doing. So thats how we did that. There was an idea very early on that we were going to try to use technology and we were going to have someone actually playing the cello and then put his face on it. So we actually have shots of, you know, this expert cellist with a green hood on. But at the end of the day, I was just like, I dont want that. I wanted it to be that character, I wanted it to be Samer. So we just stayed with all of his own stuff doing it.

io9: If you did a sequel to The Cello, would you follow the other instruments we see Francesco with in the moviethe cursed zither or the cursed mandolin?

Bousman: The writer Turki Alalshikh had this idea of a universe that this exists in, and theres a sequel already written thats pretty awesome. It takes place here in America. I think the idea is to make this globalIll just say that if given the opportunity, what he wants is to build a cursed orchestra. Youve seen one instrument of the orchestra; eventually all the instruments will get together and bring about whatever horribleness is going to happen. Wait and see on that. But I think whats cool about his idea isits not a direct sequel, meaning that it will follow a completely different storyline with a completely different person getting possession of a completely different instrument. So we will see. But yeah, I would do that, because again, it doesnt feel like a full-on sequel like a lot do.

The Cello opens in theaters Friday, December 8.





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HBO shared a new look at some of its most highly anticipated shows of 2024, including Park Chan-wooks upcoming limited series The Sympathizer, which features Robert Downey Jr.

The new look comes courtesy of HBOs The One to Watch trailer, which essentially is just a series of clips of various shows. In it, The Sympathizer makes a brief appearance, showcasing Robert Downey Jr., Sandra Oh, Hoa Xuande, and more from the upcoming series.

Check out the clip, as well as a gallery of new images from the series, below:









What do we know about The Sympathizer?

Based on Viet Thanh Nguyens Pulitzer-winning debut novel, The Sympathizer is being directed by award-winning South Korean filmmaker Park Chan-Wook, who is also serving as a showrunner with writer Don McKellar. The series stars Hoa Xuande, Fred Nguyen Khan, Toan Le, Vy Le, Alan Trong, Vy Le, and Ky Duyen, with Sandra Oh and Robert Downey Jr.

The drama is an espionage thriller and cross-culture satire about the struggles of a half-French, half-Vietnamese communist spy during the final days of the Vietnam War and his resulting exile in the United States, reads the synopsis.

It is executive produced by Downey Jr., Park, McKellar, Susan Downey, Amanda Burrell, Niv Fichman, Kim Ly, Ron Schmidt, Viet Thanh Nguyen, and Jisun Back. It is a co-production between HBO, A24, and Rhombus Media in association with Cinetic Media and Moho Film.

The post The Sympathizer Images Provide New Look at Robert Downey Jr. HBO Show appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
Top Chef Season 18 titled Top Chef: Portland, brought together a group of talented chefs competing in culinary challenges in Portland, Oregon. Furthermore, it features its diverse culinary scene, fresh produce, and vibrant food culture.

Heres how you can watch and stream Top Chef Season 18 via streaming services such as Peacock.

Is Top Chef Season 18 available to watch via streaming?

Yes, Top Chef Season 18 is available to watch via streaming on Peacock.

Season 18 of the show premiered on April 1, 2021, and ran for a total of 14 episodes.

Hosted by Padma Lakshmi, the judges of Top Chef: Portland included Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons. Also with Carrie Baird, Richard Blais, Nina Compton, Tiffany Derry, Gregory Gourdet, Melissa King, Kristen Kish, Edward Lee, Kwame Onwuachi, Amar Santana, Dale Talde, and Brooke Williamson.

Watch Top Chef Season 18 streaming via Peacock

Top Chef Season 18 is available to watch on Peacock. Subscribers of Peacock can also enjoy other popular television shows like The Office, Parks and Recreation, Downton Abbey, and many more!

You can watch via Peacock by following these steps:

Go to PeacockTV.com Click Get Started Choose your payment plan $5.99 per month or $59.99 per year (premium)

$11.99 per month or $119.99 per year (premium plus Create your account Enter your payment details

Peacocks Premium account provides access to over 80,000+ hours of TV, movies, and sports, including current NBC and Bravo Shows, along with 50 always-on channels. Premium Plus is the same plan but with no ads (save for limited exclusions), along with giving users the opportunity to download select titles and watch them offline and providing access to your local NBC channel live 24/7.

Top Chef Season 18 synopsis is as follows:

An American reality competition show in which chefs compete against each other in culinary challenges and are judged by a panel of professional chefs and other notables from the food and wine industry with one or more contestants eliminated in each episode. Moreover, Season 18 mixes the standard location-inspired challenges  like a nod to the Oregon Trail  with acknowledgments of the current state of the world, with contestants making meals for hundreds of frontline workers.

NOTE: The streaming services listed above are subject to change. The information provided was correct at the time of writing.

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The post Top Chef Season 18 Streaming: Watch & Stream Online via Peacock appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
Canned foods like evaporated milk, beans, and tuna thread our lives with ease and convenience. However, among the range of processed foods many keep stocked in their pantries, canned cheese stands out from the crowd as particularly unnatural and, frankly, odd.

Though most can agree that canned cheese is a bizarre invention, it's a bit more difficult to pin down the exact reason why  perhaps because there are so many possibilities. Is it the distinct orange color reminiscent of American cheese? Could it be the way it goes by many aliases, such as aerosol cheese, spray cheese, squirty cheese (thank you, United Kingdom), and easy cheese? What makes canned cheese a fluorescence triumph to some but a gelatinous atrocity to others? Why does this American icon make countries with more refined cheese histories cringe in fear and disgust?

Whether you're a celebrator or a skeptic of this confusing, cheesy concoction, it's difficult to deny the intrigue of canned cheese. Here, we explore the history, ingredients, and secrets of one of the world's most mysterious food products.

Read more: 16 Worst Canned Foods You Can Buy

Canned Cheese Was Invented During World War I And Sent To The Troops

Cheese pouring onto cracker - Keith Homan/Shutterstock

To understand the origins of tinned cheese as we know it, we have to take a trip back to World War I. In 1915, James L. Kraft (yes, founder of the Kraft Mac & Cheese you're thinking of) was on a mission to uncover a way for cheese to "be kept indefinitely without spoiling." Improving on the innovation of the Swiss cheese makers who invented the first commercially processed cheese in 1911, Kraft earned the first U.S. patent for processed cheese in 1916. He then supplied 6 million pounds of his product to the armed forces.

The success of canned cheese during WWI led to an increased demand in the following years. Other companies, such as Borden, went into competition with Kraft, marketing their products as convenient snacks suitable for anyone who might find themselves far away from home or a kitchen at any given time. Canned cheese quickly rose in popularity and became one of America's most beloved convenience foods, appearing everywhere from camping trips to school lunches.

A Washington State Professor Invented A Canned Cheese That's Actually Cheese

Washington State University sign - David Ryder/Getty Images

Though it's on the ingredients list, cheese is not the star of the show in most canned cheese imitations like Easy Cheese and Cheez Whiz. The main ingredients are whey and canola oil, which contribute to the distinct, not-so-cheesy flavor. So, does a canned-cheese-that-actually-tastes-like-cheese unicorn exist? Yes.

Spearheaded in the 1940s by Washington State University food science professor Norman Shirley Golding, Cougar Gold cheese, the darling of WSU, subverts all expectations of what a canned cheese can be. The cheddar-style cheese is made with whole milk and aged for two months, giving it a unique flavor and texture. The cheese is then sealed into steel cans lined with a wax coating that helps preserve it and give it its distinct aroma.

Unlike other canned cheeses, Cougar Gold does not use emulsifiers or any aerosol propellants to create its creamy texture. Instead, the cheese's signature creaminess comes from its high-fat content and aging process. When heated up on toast or in macaroni and cheese, Cougar Gold's creamy consistency melts down beautifully without leaving behind any greasy residue. Its mild cheddar flavor also makes it popular as a snack or topping for salads and sandwiches.

Spray Cheese Is Not An Aerosol

Cans of Easy Cheese - melissamn/Shutterstock

Though we're sure he'd like to, James L. Kraft can't take credit for spray cheese in a can. Nabisco first manufactured Easy Cheese and sold it under the name "Snack Mate" from 1965 until 1984, marketing it as an instant cheese for instant parties. Despite going by the alias "aerosol cheese," spray cheeses like Easy Cheese are not true aerosols. Though the can looks like a singular entity, a spray cheese has two sections: one stating that the bottom is filled with nitrogen gas, and one stating that the top must be filled with cheese or something cheese adjacent.

When you press the nozzle down to disperse the product on a cracker or directly into your mouth (no judgment here), the nitrogen pressure pushes the cheese out of the can. A plastic barrier prevents the propellant at the bottom of the can from ever touching the product. This enables spray cheese to come out luxuriously in those pretty little floret patterns rather than leaving your face covered in a fluorescent mist.

Canned Cheese Has Some Surprising Ingredients

seaweed on wooden plate - boommaval/Shutterstock

Canned cheese has some unusual ingredients hiding inside. Many people assume that canned cheese is made from just milk, salt, and emulsifiers, but there are many expected and unexpected additives in the mix. Some are natural ingredients such as brown seaweed extract, which serves as an emulsifier. Others are classic artificial components like sodium benzoate or potassium sorbate, which act as preservatives.

Other common ingredients across canned and spray cheeses include food coloring agents like annatto and carotenoids (you can thank them for that signature bright orange hue). Many brands also use cellulose gum, a stabilizing agent derived from wood pulp or plant fiber. Calcium chloride is often added to make sure that the cheese doesn't separate out during canning. Finally, citric acid often guest stars to give the cheese a tangy flavor profile.

Although some of these ingredients may sound, um, scary, it's important to remember that they have been tested for safety by regulatory bodies such as the United States Food and Drug Administration and approved for use in canned cheese production. While you should always read labels before buying any food product, don't be too alarmed if you see some unfamiliar names listed on your can of cheese  they probably won't do you any harm!

Cougar Gold Can Last Indefinitely In The Fridge

open cougar gold can - Natalia Delepine/Shutterstock

What really sets Cougar Gold apart from other types of cheese is its ability to last indefinitely in the fridge. As long as the can is unopened and refrigerated, Cougar Gold doesn't spoil or go bad  making it ideal for those who want to store large amounts of cheese without having to worry about expiration dates. In fact, Cougar Gold has been known to stay fresh for over 25 years.

This isn't just a cool fact  it also makes economic sense: by buying Cougar Gold in bulk, you can save yourself money (and trips to the grocery store) in the long run. Plus, since Cougar Gold doesn't need to be frozen or stored at room temperature, you can keep more of your food budget in check while still enjoying delicious cheesy goodness.

Of course, no matter how long your Cougar Gold lasts, it should be noted that once opened and exposed to air, all cheeses will begin to degrade fairly quickly  even if they are stored in the refrigerator. So make sure you eat up any unopened cans before their expiration date!

Snack Mate Canned Cheese Was Launched To Boost Cracker Sales

Ritz crackers on grocery shelf - The Toidi/Shutterstock

In the early 1980s, Nabisco made a bold attempt to bolster its cracker sales by introducing a new product: Snack Mate canned cheese. The bright idea was that consumers could buy both the crackers and the cheese in one convenient package. The combination had never been more easily accessible. It was an immediate hit with customers, who were excited to have a quick and easy way to make snacks like grilled cheese sandwiches or nachos.

The owner of Nabisco was enthusiastic about Snack Mate's potential to provide an assist for their line of snack foods. He believed it would be a great addition to their existing products, as well as giving them an edge over competitors in the market. Not surprisingly, Snack Mate quickly became a success. It's amazing what some creative thinking can do when trying to give your product line a boost.

Canned Cheese Is An Easter Staple In Jamaica

Easter buns and canned cheese - Debbie Ann Powell/Shutterstock

In Jamaica, canned cheese is a beloved Easter tradition. As the only company in the country that manufactures processed cheese, Tastee Cheese has been providing families on the island with a delicious and convenient way to enjoy their favorite holiday meals for generations. During the weeks leading up to Easter, Tastee Cheese cans can be found in almost every grocery store and market in Jamaica.

The canned cheese is most often served as part of a traditional Jamaican dish called "Easter Bun"  a spiced fruit cake served with melted cheese and butter. This combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it an instant crowd-pleaser during holiday celebrations. The convenience of having pre-made cheese ready to go makes it even easier for busy cooks to get their holiday meals prepared quickly and easily.

In addition to being an Easter favorite, Tastee Cheese is also popular year-round among Jamaicans who appreciate its flavor and convenience. It's no wonder that the company has been able to stay in business for so many years.

You Can Make Spray Cheese At Home ... Kind Of

woman cooking at home - fizkes/Shutterstock

The preservatives in canned cheese make it a fear food for many. If you're scared of little sodium benzoate, you can skip the chemicals but keep the cheese by making this fun and healthy-ish version at home. The process is fairly simple and only requires a few basic ingredients. All you need is cheddar cheese, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, cream cheese, and skim milk. Shred the cheddar cheese and blend all the ingredients until combined into a smooth paste. Then transfer the mixture into an airtight container and refrigerate overnight.

The next day you can transfer the mixture to an aerosol can or whipped cream dispenser for easy spraying. You can also add additional seasonings to customize the flavor profile of your homemade sprayable cheese such as dried herbs or smoked paprika for some smoky heat. And don't shy away from canned tomatoes, aka the canned ingredient that takes cheese dip to the next level.

Making your own sprayable cheese at home provides several advantages over canned varieties while still giving you that cheesy flavor everyone loves. It's healthier since there are no preservatives in the recipe and it's also more economical since you're using fresh ingredients that cost less than cans of processed cheeses. Bonus: Making your own spray cheese at home with a reusable container saves cans from going into the landfill.

Selena Gomez's Favorite Late Night Snack Involves Canned Cheese

Selena Gomez smiling - DFree/Shutterstock

Selena Gomez is no stranger to the world of canned cheese. As a self-proclaimed late-night snacker, she's always looking for quick and easy recipes to satisfy her cravings. Her go-to snack? A mini spray cheese pizza bite!

In an interview with Variety, Selena shared her signature recipe, which requires just four ingredients: a can of spray cheese, mini pizza shells, pepperoni slices, and Italian seasoning. After preheating the oven to 350 F, Selena sprinkles Italian seasoning onto each pizza shell before topping it with pepperoni slices and spraying the top generously with canned cheese. Once all pizzas are topped, they can be baked in the oven for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.

The result is a delicious combination of crunchy shells, crispy pepperoni slices, and melty spray cheese that makes for the perfect late-night snack. Selena raves about how quick and easy this recipe is  it takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish  so it's ideal for those nights when you're craving something savory but don't have much time on your hands. Plus, you can customize this snack by adding additional toppings like bell peppers or olives.

Cheez Whiz Enhanced The Realism Of HBO's Mare Of Easttown

Jars of Cheez Whiz - JHVEPhoto/Shutterstock

Cheez Whiz recently gained a new wave of fame due to its cameo on HBO's hit show "Mare of Easttown." The moment Kate Winslet sprayed Cheez Whiz on cheeseballs was the moment people truly believed in the show's rural Pennsylvania setting. This iconic product has become a symbol of authenticity and nostalgia for viewers all over the world.

This unlikely star-power began with an introduction by Philadelphia native Kevin Bacon, who played Detective Colin Zabel on the show. He quickly establishes that Cheez Whiz is a "local delicacy" that needs no explanation because "everyone knows what it is." His enthusiasm for this common ingredient captures the essence of life in small towns across America where simple pleasures like Cheez Whiz are celebrated.

The inclusion of Cheez Whiz goes beyond simply providing flavor or texture; it has become a representation of true rural Pennsylvania culture. It provides viewers with an insight into how locals view their own food culture and helps them connect with characters on a more personal level. The realism and authenticity created by this product have made it indispensable to creating believable settings for shows like "Mare of Easttown."

Canned Cheese Once Caused A Botulism Outbreak In Rural Georgia

Cheese spread on cracker - Lauripatterson/Getty Images

In 1996, a botulism outbreak in rural Georgia was linked to canned cheese sauce. The incident prompted researchers to take a closer look at the product's ingredients and production process. The outbreak occurred when 21 people became ill after consuming canned cheese sauce purchased from a local grocery store. Three of those people were hospitalized and one died due to complications from botulism poisoning. After further investigation, it was determined that the cause of the outbreak was due to improperly processed cans of cheese sauce.

The problem with canned cheese is that some brands are produced using an outdated method known as "open-kettle" canning. This process involves heating the cheese ingredients in an open pot without boiling them first, which can lead to spoilage by allowing bacteria into the mixture during processing. It also results in low acidity levels, making it more prone to botulinum toxin growth  which is what happened in this particular case.

Nowadays, many companies use modernized methods such as "closed-kettle" or "aseptic" canning processes for their products. These newer techniques involve boiling all ingredients before they are sealed into cans and have proven effective at eliminating foodborne illnesses associated with canned cheeses such as botulism.

Consumers need to be aware of these risks when shopping for canned cheese. Be sure to check labels carefully for any signs of improper processing or expiration dates before purchasing any canned cheese products.

You Can Throw Your Own Canned Cheese Party

Cheese dip with tortilla chips - Ncognet0/Getty Images

Now that you know all the facts about canned cheese, there is plenty of opportunity to get creative. If you're eager to try our at-home squeeze cheese recipe, why not throw a party and invite friends over to experiment with different recipes using canned cheese? Have everyone bring their most unique or appalling dish made with canned cheese and have a taste-testing competition at the end.

No matter what you do with your newfound knowledge about canned cheese, remember that it is important to purchase from reputable brands and follow safety precautions if you decide to try making your own. Don't get botulism  enjoy your tasty canned cheese treats responsibly. And even if you don't feel like making a number of dishes, even sampling different canned cheeses can be an interesting way to explore this mysterious food. Unique cheeses are worth trying, and even if canned cheese doesn't quite fit the same bill as Brie Noir or burrata, perhaps you'll have some fun in the process.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.
GQ; Getty Images

In the best scenarios, we dont really think about the quality of the air we breathe. But thanks to COVID-19, a gas stove chapter in the culture war, and the United States getting shrouded by Canadian wildfire smoke, air quality has been thrust into the U.S. collective consciousness in 2023.

The World Health Organization says that 99 percent of the human population breathes air that exceeds its guideline limits and contains high levels of pollutants, with low- and middle-income countries suffering from the highest exposures.

In New Delhi, the regularly smoggy air is described as an invisible killer, according to Jyoti Pande Lavakare, an author and clean air non-profit co-founder. Further south in India, Mumbais air quality also draws comparisons as a lethal force, resulting in some 29,000 deaths in 2023 alone. In October, the smog around Beijing prompted an emergency response, including flight delays and temporary highway closures. These circumstances have left cities scrambling to deploy anti-smog machines meant to neutralize lingering dust particles, though theyre seen as temporary relief to a much more gaping and existential threat.

While the air quality has largely improved in the United States since 1980, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, a recent study shows that in the western United States, air quality has gotten worse from 2000 to 2020, as emission reduction efforts were disproportionately countered by an increasing number of wildfires, which also increased in intensity. A paper published in Nature in November confirmed that poor-quality aira leading cause of death in the United Statesdisproportionately affects Black people.

And this year, the smoke wasnt exclusive to the West. Due to a record amount of wildfires in Canada, New York Citys air quality index (AQI) temporarily made it one of the most air-polluted places in the world, ranging from Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups to simply Unhealthy for everyone. On Wednesday, July 8, The Guardian reported that the United States had the worst air pollution from wildfire smoke in recent history, which can result in ill-advised health effects ranging from eye irritation to premature death.

Black carbonthe air pollutant that's culpable for these deathsincreased by 55 percent in the western U.S., mostly because of wildfires, with climate experts warning that air quality will only continue to get worse with climate change and affect people who were previously insulated from its reach.

The kicker? While the air outside has been making headlines for its less-than-stellar 2023 performance, indoor air quality remains up to five times more polluted, and we were again reminded of this when a fossil-fuel-support-signaling spectacle outshined a serious issue.

Richard Trumka Jr., a commissioner of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), told Bloomberg that the CPSC was considering a ban on gas stoveswhich occupy 40 percent of American homesgiven that they release methane and nitrogen oxide, which account for 13 percent of childhood asthma cases in the United States, can cause health and respiratory issues in adults, and have the carbon dioxide emissions equivalent of 500,000 cars.

Naturally, politicians like Florida Governor and Republican presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis bravely claimed that Brandon would not get another wink of sleepytime until he personally removed the gas range from your home. Then, in May, New York made history by becoming the first state to introduce a ban on natural gas stoves and furnaces in most new constructionwith exceptions like large commercial buildingsrequiring fully electric heating and cooking in buildings shorter than seven stories by 2026.

Contributors to indoor air quality can include gas stoves, but also cleaning solutions, air fresheners, candles, plus whatevers in the outdoor airwhich enters via cracks, doorways, and ventilation systems. As the pandemic led many people to live an even more indoor lifestyle (and kept us wanting to mitigate the risk of airborne particles carrying the disease), companies like Dyson, Mila, and Molekule capitalized on the journey inward, transforming clunky air purifiers into well-designed status symbols. To meet our current-day dystopia, Dyson even launched the Zone, a pair of noise-canceling headphones that can also blow filtered air into your face.

As the reasons to be concerned about the air quality mount, lets talk through what you have control over. While you might not be able to prevent all forest fires, remove your gas stove, or replace your offices HVAC system, its not a bad time to look into air purifiers with HEPA filters (like those above) to monitor your abode so you can change certain habits that might be affecting the air qualitylike burning candles, cooking with gas, or spraying solutions that are smogging up your air. And if you want to give gasless cooking a shot, there are portable induction cooktops that only use electricity, heat up faster, and dont emit any of the toxic fumes associated with gas burners.

You can also support policymakers in creating legislation that impacts how we fight the climate crisis, which impacts the air we breathe. In November, for example, the Biden administration announced a $2 billion fund through the EPA to support community-driven projects that deploy clean energy, strengthen climate resilience, and build capacity for communities to tackle environmental and climate justice challenges, including air pollution monitoring and prevention.

Whatever were doing to address air quality, theres much more left to be done. As the WHO states, measures to improve air quality offer a win-win strategy for both climate and health, lowering the burden of disease attributable to air pollution, as well as contributing to the near- and long-term mitigation of climate change.

Originally Appeared on GQ
MOSCOW, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Fifty-three Russian citizens and their families have crossed the Rafah border checkpoint on Wednesday, the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations said.

Those who have crossed the checkpoint included 27 children, the ministry said in a Telegram post, adding that rescuers, psychologists and doctors were on duty to provide necessary assistance.

A total of 951 Russians have been evacuated from the conflict zone in Gaza to date, and over 880 nationals have already been transported to Moscow, including over 380 children, according to the ministry. 
Millionaires bought up this quiet fishing town, and now its a hot Mediterranean destination.

For as long as anyone can remember, Batroun, a well-preserved old town in northern Lebanon, was a humble, under-the-radar gateway for locals. It was best known for its ancient Phoenician wall, Ottoman architecture, and sleepy cobblestoned streets. But like some other places across the globe, the pandemic changed everything for this 4,000-year-old fishing village looking out toward Cyprus on the Mediterranean.

More from Robb Report

In 2021, clandestine beach parties hidden behind weathered wooden gates attracted Lebanon movers and shakers, eager to escape strict rules and evening curfews in the capital city of Beirut. The secret was out.

Luxe new boutiques like Capo Boutique Hotel and Resort have opened.

Since then, a surge in development is transforming Batroun into a lavishly appointed playground for an international A-list. As wealthy Covid-era visitors turned into investors, prime seafront land and centuries-old family homes have become luxury boutique hotels, trendy rooftop restaurants, and buzzy beach clubs reminiscent of Mykonos or Ibiza. For more blink-and-youre-in-Greece moments, head out to the towns nearby vineyards. Located at high altitudes of up to 1,300 meters above sea level, they produce high-quality grapes that fuel meals back in town.

In contrast with the rest of the country, which recently suffered one of the worst economic meltdowns in modern history, Batroun is a thriving pocket of success and carefree calm. (Editors note: As of writing, the Israel-Hamas war continues south of Lebanons border, while neighboring Syrias civil conflict is ongoing. Any travelers to the region should proceed with caution.)

Its transformation has been helped along by controversial Lebanese politician Gebran Bassil, a polarizing figure who is either responsible for preserving the town amid the collapse or is one of the chief architects of the countrys downfall, depending on who you ask. He has enabled and encouraged large investments in the area, which some see as a land grab. Entrepreneurs see it differently.

At the top of the list of new and notable properties is Capo Boutique Hotel and Resort. Designed by rock-star-turned-architect Carl Gerges, a multi-talented drummer from the Middle Eastern band Mashrouh Leila, the sand and cement architecture almost disappears into the landscape. A portal-like entrance, lined with statuesque cacti and swaying white canopies, takes you inside a hedonistic haven of understated luxury.

Capo Boutique Hotel and Resort is all about the subtle details.

Each of Capos eight suites has its own lap pool, an exceptionally private terrace, colossal sliding doors, and expansive views onto the Mediterranean. Free of any extraneous details or distracting decor, its the epitome of quiet luxury.

Built over five levels, the resort has a spa specializing in Balinese treatments and a sunset bar that welcomes international DJs throughout the summer months, with individual tables selling for as much as $4,000 for the evening. Capos fine dining restaurant, Butlers Table, fitted with custom glass lighting and a lengthy koi pond, is helmed by acclaimed chef Youssef Akiki. His former eatery, Burgundy, was listed in the Best 50 Discovery for restaurants in the world, and one of the 20 most underrated restaurants in the world by CNN. He is also the culinary director of Basko restaurant in Dubai.

Butlers Beach Club, part of the small resort, is a destination on its own. You can order lunch from the restaurant and have it served at your sun lounger while enjoying the music. A short walk on the sandy beach takes you to a group of multimillion-dollar seafront villas. A few minute drive onward is Breathe Batroun, an adult-only boutique hotel that belongs to Mario Haddad, a restaurant entrepreneur whose family runs Empire Cinemas.

Set in a traditional early-twentieth-century Lebanese house with triple arch windows and a stone facade, it is thoughtfully furnished with carefully selected midcentury antiques and an honesty bar. The rooftop serves as an airy dining area, where decadent oriental breakfast is served in the morning. In the evening, mixologist cocktails and fine Japanese dishes are served under the stars as it transforms into Sushi on the Roof.

Around the corner, Fouha is the latest addition to the old towns bustling scene. Dating back to 1850, the sandstone house used to be inhabited by five families, who each lived in one of what is now the hotels five suites. Furnished by top local designers and with a few vintage cinema chairs, it is run by a young local filmmaking couple who also launched Batrouns Mediterranean Film Festival. The annual event, set in a piazza surrounded by ancient buildings, serves crispy fried sardines and local beer instead of popcorn and soda and takes place in late September.

The party never stops in Batroun.

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Oprah has worn some incredible purple ensembles in the run-up to The Color Purple, which opens in theaters on December 25. And in true Oprah fashion, shes inspired others to do the same. As she told the crowd at the Essence Festival this past June, By Christmastime, we dont want to be able to find a purple fabric in the United States. There should not be a purple feather, a purple shoe or sock in the United States 'cause we wouldve all gotten our purple on. Need some outfit ideas? Scroll through our look book of stunning ways Oprah has rocked the royal color.

December 12: The Empire State Building Turns Purple

"First time at the @empirestatebldg and we lit it up PURPLE for @thecolorpurple ," Oprah shared in a recent Instagram post. While visiting the Empire State Building, she positively dazzled in a shimmering Oscar de la Renta coat alongside a few fellow cast members. There, they all celebrated the momentous occasion by taking to the top of the building, singing out to New York, and collectively flipping the switch to light the Empire State purple.

Dimitrios Kambouris - Getty Images

December 12: CBS Mornings

For her CBS Mornings appearance, Oprah donned a sleek lavender jumpsuit by Adam Lippes and complementary purple shoes. Later, she shared a sweet Instagram post with Danielle Brooks (who plays Sofia in the upcoming film) to commemorate the moment: "Your Sofias @daniebb3  Thank you for having us on @cbsmornings to talk all things @thecolorpurple!"

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December 11: THR Presents Live - The Color Purple

Oprah and Danielle Brooks attended The Hollywood Reporter's live presentation of The Color Purple in New York City. There, she dazzled in a sparkling white suit and lavender shirt by Brunello Cucinelli.

Arturo Holmes - Getty Images

December 8: Producers Guild Screening

Oprah rocked a chic Stella McCartney suit at the Producers Guild of Americas screening of The Color Purple. She completed the outfit with matching Sam Edelman heels and equally fabulous purple eye makeup.

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December 6: The Color Purple Premiere

At the premiere of The Color Purple in Los Angeles, Oprah wore a vibrant, body-skimming gown by Dolce & Gabanna, a sparkly purple clutch, and matching heels. The final touches: dazzling earrings by Annabella Chan and a statement ring by Kallati.



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December 5: Elles Women in Hollywood

Oprah dazzled at Elle's 30th annual Women in Hollywood celebration wearing head-to-toe Ralph Lauren. Yes, her sleek outfit was all black, but boy, did it make those purple shoes and bag pop.

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December 3: Academy Gala

Its a purple kind of night, Oprah shared in a recent Instagram post. Here, she wows at the third annual Academy Museum of Motion Pictures gala in a shimmering Dolce & Gabbana dress, Manolo Blahnik shoes, and jewelry by Hamilton Jewelers and Effy Jewelry.

Emma McIntyre - Getty Images

November 17: L.A. Content Day with The Color Purple Cast

Promoting the film alongside cast members in Los Angeles, Oprah sported a deep plum jumpsuit by Rivet Utility and passed out matching tote bags by Telfar. In a post to celebrate, she wrote, I had to make sure my @thecolorpurple family got their Purple bags with movie tickets from @fandango just in time to spread the Purple love .

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November 16: Varietys Power of Women

At Variety's Power of Women event in November, Oprah was effortlessly glamorous in a sparkly pantsuit by Dries Van Noten. On actress Fantasia Barrino (left), who plays Celie in the new film and who was honored that night, she wrote: "To watch Fantasia re-embody, reimagine, reinvent Celie was to actually witness triumph in action. I'm proud to see her getting her well deserved flowers: Healed. Whole. Triumphant. Thank you @variety for naming her one of your #PowerofWomen. The Color Purple is in theaters this Christmas Day and youre going to love this Celie ."



Randy Shropshire - Getty Images

November 15: National Book Awards

At the National Book Awards, Oprah stunned in a fringed purple dress by Elie Saab. On Instagram, she wrote, Spent the night in NYC at the #NBAwards surrounded by authors, poets, and champions of books. @levar.burton was the perfect host and my @oprahsbookclub authors @abraham.verghese.official, @jesmynward were the perfect dates. Congratulations to all the winners. Heres to a world where everyone readsand wears purple!



Beowulf Sheehan

September 12: The Kering Foundation

In September, the Kering Foundation held its second annual Caring for Women Dinner to address and raise support against gender-based violence. Oprah, pictured with Malala Yousafzai and Kering CEO Francois-Henri Pinault, was positively regal in a purple Yves Saint Laurent dress.



Ilya S. Savenok - Getty Images

June 30: Essence Festival

At the Essence Festival back in June, Oprah sported a lovely lilac outfit by Brunello Cucinelli. The day also marked Fantasia Barrinos 39th birthday, so the two of themplus actors Danielle Brooks and Taraji P. Henson, who play Sofia and Shug, respectively, in the moviewere thrilled to celebrate together.



Arturo Holmes - Getty Images

May 22: Trailer Premiere Day

On the day of The Color Purple trailer premiere, Oprah dazzled the Oprah Daily staff in New York in matching purple pants and blouse (by Versace and LAgence, respectively). Yall have six months to get your purple wear for opening day, she wrote in a post on Instagram. Cause its gonna be a purple Christmas .

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April 25: CinemaCon

Oprah and the rest of The Color Purple cast stunned at the films first look at CinemaCon last April. She wore another light lilac outfit by Brunello Cucinelli, and wrote in an Instagram post: These terrific women brought IT during filming@tasiasword as Celie, @tarajiphenson as Shug, @daniebb3 as Sofiaand now are bringing IT in the fashion department.

Alberto E. Rodriguez - Getty Images

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It was mid-morning on Nov. 13, and South Dakota bowhunter Shauna Woodward found herself in the heat of the rut. Glassing from one of her favorite spots on the 1,000-acre cattle ranch that she and her husband own in Spink County, she saw bucks chasing does and fighting each other. As she sat and watched the action, she waited patiently for an unusual, palmated whitetail buck shed nicknamed Moose to show itself.

I was near a grove of cedar trees, with a strong 20 mph wind blowing, Woodward tells Outdoor Life. I was glassing the trees, looking for the palmated buck. I couldnt move around much because there were deer everywherebucks fighting, snort-wheezing, crashing the brush.

Woodward had first seen the buck on the property in 2021. It was 4x4 whitetail with an unusual rack configuration, but it was clearly a young deer and she passed on it. By the time the 2022 deer season started, a record drought had affected many of the bucks in the region, and Woodward explains that their antlers were brittle and breaking off.

We had cell camera [photos] of the deer, and almost all of them had busted racks, including Moose. So, we shot no bucks on our farm in 2022, she says. This year, though, Moose just exploded. He put on a lot of mass and his palmated antlers were much larger.

A trail cam photo of "Moose" taken in 2021.

By Nov. 13, with the rut in high gear, Woodward was searching hard for Moose as she sat on the ground and glassed near the cedar grove.

A small 4-point buck stepped out of the cover just 15 yards from me that morning, she recalls. He didnt spook because he was rut-crazy. Then he just headed off to another pasture near the cedar trees.

A few minutes later she spotted antler tips coming over a hill, and she recognized Moose from around 50 yards away. All she could see was the deers head and rack, so she had no chance for a shot with her bow.

Moose was very smart, and mostly nocturnal, she explains. He saw the 4-pointer walk away, and he sensed something wasnt right. He wasnt spooked. But he followed the 4-pointer into the cedar trees that were about 300 yards away.

Looking through her binoculars, Woodward watched the bucks running does through the cedars. She knew they had an elevated blind near the edge of the cedars, so she picked up and moved slowly and carefully to that spot. Woodward eased into the blind around 10 a.m., and she was now about 200 yards from where she last saw the two bucks chasing does.

Read Next: Hunter Accidentally Blows Up Blind, Then Tags Palmated Buck

Through my binoculars I spotted a doe pop out of the trees, moving toward me, she recalls. Moose came out following the doe, then ducked back into the cedars. There were other bucks there, too, raising cane and snort-wheezing. They all were moving slowly towards me in the blind but hidden in the cedars.

She listened to the deer that were in the heavy cover only 40 yards from her blind. Then the 4-pointer ran out of the cover, followed by a young deer.

Thats when the doe ran out and passed me at 20 yards, Woodward says. I couldnt see well except through a tight shooting lane. But I figured Moose was going to be behind the doe. So I drew my Hoyt 50-pound bow, and watched the opening for Moose.

I heard him grunt, and then he appeared walking fast after the doe. I let him reach the opening at 20 yards, led him a bit, and shot.

Woodward found the buck lying 80 yards from where she shot it with her bow.

The arrow hit the buck a bit farther back than Shauna wanted, but it passed completely through the deer. After quietly slipping out of the blind, she checked her arrow and headed home to wait for Moose to expire.

I love the archery tradition so deeply and want only the quickest, best bow shot to be made, she says. I knew the arrow wasn't perfect, so I waited a few hours to return to the spot with [my husband] Richard to look for Moose.

Woodward came back around 2 p.m. that day and found a good blood trail. They tracked slowly and carefully to avoid bumping Moose. Two hours later, she found the buck dead only 80 yards from where it was hit.

Read Next: Bowhunting in -30 Wind Chill on the Frozen North Dakota Prairie

Woodward says Moose was looking a little ragged from the rut and only weighed an estimated 175 pounds. The bucks unusual palmated rack was still in tremendous shape, though, with at least a dozen points. The estimated 6.5-year-old deer hasnt been scored yet. A taxidermist who is doing a shoulder mount will eventually take the measurements, but Woodward says the numbers arent that important to her.

Im just glad to finally put my hands on Moose, she says. Its a culmination of a lot of work and expense to grow good bucks into great bucks. And its about passing on the ethical hunting tradition to our kids and grandkids.
Coco Chanel fans just got their very own luxury vacation.

On Monday, the luxury travel operator Red Savannah launched a series called In the Footsteps Of which helps travelers follow the journeys of various well-known figures. Coco Chanel is the first such person to get the treatment, and the In the Footsteps of Coco Chanel experience takes you from Pariss Rue Cambon to the south of France in style. The itinerary was launched in celebration of her Chanel No.5 fragrance turning 102 this year. And you can book the trip from $10,052 per person.

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Left to right: Vintage photo of Coco Chanel; Chanel boutique at 31 Rue Cambon

The journey follows Chanels transition from orphan to seamstress and milliner to couturier, the luxury travel company said in a statement. Youll kick off your adventure with a two-night stay in exploring the Norman seaside town of Deauville, where the designer opened her first boutique in 1913. Five-star Hotel Barriere Le Normandy will provide you with luxe lodging as you decompress from walking the areas boardwalk, watching a polo match, or visiting its famed racecourse alongside Normandys haut-societe.

From there, youll head to Paris for a three-night stay on Rue Cambon at Castille Paris. The swanky hotel is located just a few steps away from Chanels original Parisian boutique, where Coco popularized the striped mariniere sweater for women. The Paris trip includes tea at Cafe Angelina (Cocos favorite), a stop by the Museum of Fashion and Textiles, and a trip to the Grand Palais (where some of Chanels most revered shows have taken place). Plus, youll enjoy a personal shopping experience at the La Samaritaine department store, and then lunch at The Ritz Paris, where the designer lived out the final decades of her life.

Polo match in Deauville, Normandy (left); views from Hotel Belle Rives on the French Riviera (right)

On day six, youll board a first-class train to Nice. A driver will escort you to Chateau de Cremat, where Coco was a frequent guest. (Some believe its Art Deco design inspired Chanels interlocking Cs, so youll get to form your own opinion.) Youll leave the chateau and travel to the Juan les Pins on the Riviera before checking into Hotel Belles Rives. The rest of your time in the Cote dAzur will be spent visiting Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Grasse, a region well-known for its soothing botanicals.

Your Coco Chanel-inspired journey wraps on day eight, following a final breakfast on the Riviera and a private transfer to the Nice airport. There are upgrades and extension options available for interested parties, ranging from a stay in the Suite Coco Chanel at the Ritz Paris to visiting the last beret maker in France. For more details, head to the Red Savannah website.

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When artist Tejumola Butler Adenuga first moved to London from Ogun State, Nigeria, the access to constant electricity made him feel like the future was full of possibilities.

When the lights came on in Nigeria, I knew I had to press my clothes. Then, when I moved to London, the reality that I could iron my clothes at any time made me feel like there was nothing I could not do, he reminisces.

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At 29, his life has rapidly changed. Since moving to London as a 15-year-old schoolboy, hes become a rising member of the U.K.s creative Nigerian diaspora community, sometimes referred to as simply Butler Archive. His work perhaps first resonated on a global scale with his pointillist portraits of famed personalities like the late actor Chadwick Boseman and Lee Alexander McQueen, which he composed using photos gleaned from social media and the internet.

Adenugas color blindness led him to celebrate the use of black and white and focus on contours rather than shades, which in part distinguished his portraits  one of which was most recently featured in the exhibition Portrait of a Top Boy, a collection of 16 portraits from U.K.-based artists to commemorate the legacy of the characters of the Netflix series Top Boy.

Now, just two years after venturing into the world of furniture and lighting, hes focused on testing the waters as an architect, taking his journey full circle with his first major project in Nigeria, with a rooftop restaurant in Lagos. The futuristic space will host a gallery for furniture, sculpture and installations to showcase just how far the diaspora has actually come.

Our sole aim is to get seasoned Nigerian designers from the diaspora to integrate with this new physical landscape, he says. Last time Adenuga was back home, he realized how much the cultural scene had changed when he found himself at an art show surrounded by 2,000 people. Things are changing at home and abroad.

Artists are becoming new celebrities, he points out, adding a lot has changed, there are more conveniences, there is now a faster way to do things, especially when it comes to design and appreciation for art.

From Adenugas East London studio, he designed his own renderings for the new space, which will break ground near Lagos this year. The restaurant, awash in beige, is adorned with rounded architectural features and meditative spaces that connect with the nature, flora and fauna of Nigeria.

A rendering designed by Tejumola Butler Adenuga.

A member of the Yoruba tribe  which in ancient times perfected the crafts of woodcarving, sculpture, metal work, textiles and beadwork  Adenugas vision was born during a new golden age of the Nigerian zeitgeist. The diasporas influence has spread worldwide in the fields of sports, fashion, film and music, particularly Afrobeats, which emanated from Nigeria, Ghana and the U.K. in the 2000s and 2010s. The sheer size of Nigerias diaspora population is also a factor, Adenuga says. According to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, about one out of every four Africans as of today is Nigerian.

Fellow Nigerian and architect Olajumoke Adenowo, the author of Neo Heritage Defining contemporary African architecture, explains the breadth of the nations impact on modern African culture, particularly architecture: Nigeria consists of over 500 ethnic groups by distinct languages and cultures. There is no other country in Africa [that] possesses the sheer ethno-cultural diversity and environmental variations that create a matrix of architectural design problem-solving as Nigeria does. Every expression of architecture and building type, or architectural style, is an answer to the ethno-cultural context and physical realities of the locale and studying Nigeria and all its variety helps us study the whole continent, she writes.

A design by Tejumola Butler Adenuga.

Back in his East London studio, Adenuga says branching out to other disciplines means his studio is now littered with unexpected materials such as pure, eco-friendly materials such as jesmonite plaster base and the same aluminum used for Apple MacBook computers, in addition to 70 different types of paper, sharpie pens, scraps of charcoal and plain black paint.

I think quality is intertwined with craftsmanship. This to me represents a harmonious blend of skill, passion and dedication. Its about delving deep into the craft, mastering techniques and the infusion of ones self. It requires relentless attention detail, a pursuit of perfection and an unwavering commitment to using the best materials and remaining true to them, Adenuga said.

Adenuga made his foray into the worlds of design, furnishings and lighting in 2021 with Soho Home, the range created to mirror the look and feel of Soho Houses worldwide Soho Home at the time was looking for a designer to transform an old 19th-century church into a modern retail space. His own pieces, which he does on commission, range from tables and chairs to lamps and mirrors and even a swimming pool. The aim is to produce pieces that echo the luxury feel of high-end Italian firms like Cassina and Poliform that will look relevant even in 600 years.

I want people to get excited about my work like they do a Cassina or Eames piece, he muses.

Whether producing a portrait or a couch, Adenugas aesthetic has an enduringly modern quality in the same way a piece from bygone icons like Ray or Charles Eames or Gio Ponti remain modern through the decades. Adenugas pieces are enhanced with a layer of storytelling that calls to mind the nobility of Nigerias regal past  its emirs, kings and chiefs that ruled over its mineral-rich lands for centuries.

Adenuga says his big break happened when his graphic designs were spotted on Twitter by U.K.-based rapper Tinie Tempah. While still a student at Ravensbourne University, Adenuga was designing album covers and styling stage ensembles and traveling with Tempahs entourage.

Shortly after being discovered by Tempah, Adidas offered the young creative a collaboration deal, delivering him a substantial check while he was still living with his parents. The envelope had been sealed all night. I came down to breakfast the next day and opened it. We were all freaking out, but it was more than enough for me to start doing my own thing, he says, recalling his first major exhibit at the Old Truman Brewery in East London in 2016.

Hes since built a reputation with other high-profile collaborations with Beats by Dre, Selfridges and Dr. Martens and, most recently, Crocs. In 2021, Adenuga also began designing leather goods for Hackney-based luxury label Nosakharis London team as its art director. He united his minimal aesthetic with Nosakharis creative director Nosa Osadolors sleek urban vision and for the brand designed his first leather accessory, the Butler Crossbody bag.

Tejumola Butler Adenuga poses alongside the Butler Crossbody bags he designed for Nosakhari.

Looking ahead, he says an upcoming exhibition will pay tribute to his native Nigeria by incorporating the use of aluminum, the work behind unearthing this material, as well as how colonialism extinguished well-preserved techniques. In 2021, nearly 139,000 metric tons of refined aluminum were produced in West Africa, according to Statista.

His sensitivity when hand crafting furniture and lighting is similar to the sort of poetry Adenuga employs when assembling a galaxy of black dots to shape the contours of ones face and depict the sadness in ones eyes, or the warmth of an embrace.

By definition, I am an artist. I can encompass a lot of disciplines rather than vocations and I see them all under the same artist umbrella that apply the same principles of minimalism, purity of material and honesty throughout, he says.

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ANCIENT AND MODERN: Dior is providing a glimpse behind the scenes of its cruise show in Mexico last May with a documentary that takes viewers on a journey to the communities where weavers keep alive the ancestral textile traditions featured in Maria Grazia Chiuris collection.

The labels creative director of womenswear tapped Circe Henestrosa, curator and designer of last years Frida Kahlo, Beyond Appearances exhibition at the Palais Galliera museum in Paris, to help her choose among the myriad of artisans from different native groups.

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The hour-long documentary, titled Dior Metamorphosis (Concealing and Revealing,) spotlights several key players.

Narcy Areli Morales, the founder of the Rocinante clothing brand, worked with a group of Mixtec women in the mountain village of San Lucas Redencion, in the state of Oaxaca, to oversee the design and production of an embroidery technique known as pepenado fruncido.

Hilan Cruz Cruz, a weaver and anthropology student from Tlacomulco, a Nahua community, is the cofounder of the Yolcentle workshop that perpetuates the pepenado hilvan technique, which forms geometric patterns that were featured on a series of shirts and dresses. The film shows him making the journey to the Dior workshops in Paris, where the looks came together.

Pedro Meza is the founder of the Sna Jolobil, which means The Weaving House in the Tzotzil language, which created a gaban tunic based on Diors signature Bar jacket.

A look from Diors cruise 2024 collection.

Made up of 800 women weavers from 20 Indigenous communities in the highlands of southern Mexico, the association is dedicated to preserving and revitalizing Mayan art by encouraging its members to study and recreate ancient textiles, natural dyeing methods for wool and cotton, and ancestral weaving techniques.

Meanwhile, weaver Remigio Mestas supervised the creation of four tunics known as huipils, illustrating the know-how of several Indigenous groups.

Made by Urdimbre Audiovisual, whose activities range from documentary films to concert production, the film also highlights the work of Mexican artist Elina Chauvet, who collaborated with Chiuri on a sequence of dresses featured in the finale of the show at the Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso in Mexico City.

Made of white cotton muslin embroidered with red thread, they carry messages designed to raise awareness of violence against women and are currently on show at La Galerie Dior at the brands historic flagship in Paris.

The cruise 2024 behind-the-scenes documentary will make its debut on YouTube Premiere at 3 p.m. CET on Wednesday, with a live chat option, and will be subsequently available through Diors account on the video platform.

A look from Diors cruise 2024 collection.

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Fly infestations can be as damaging as locust or mosquito outbreaks, experts say - Marcel Pasveer/iStockphoto

One of Sudans biggest cities has been struck by a fly infestation of a size and intensity never seen before.

Port Sudan, the northeast African countrys main seaport and the source of 90 per cent of its international trade, faces a looming health crisis as billions of flies infiltrate homes, offices and food supplies.

This is the worst outbreak in Port Sudan in history, Professor Ayman Ahmed of the Institute of Endemic Diseases, University of Khartoum, told the Telegraph. The entire city is infested.

The infestation follows a mass migration of people to the port city after vicious fighting broke out in the capital Khartoum earlier this year, swelling its population to over 500,000.

The city has started to buckle under the strain, with overcrowding and poor sanitation creating the perfect environment for the faeces-loving Musca fly  better known as the house fly  to breed in.

They thrive anywhere where there are poor sanitary conditions, said Professor Richard Wall, a veterinary entomologist at the University of Bristol. They need organic waste, to feed on and to breed.

A tea set sits abandoned in Port Sudan as a fly infestation engulfs the city - Twitter

The infestation has become so intense in Port Sudan that performing basic activities such as sitting, eating and working have become near impossible.

Pictures from the city show markets selling bread and tea covered in flies, while in video clips people can be seen batting swarms away in vain.

Fly infestations are little written about in global health, but can be as damaging as locust or mosquito outbreaks, experts say.

The Musca fly, which adapted to human habitations centuries ago, are efficient vectors for diseases including typhoid and cholera.

In the early mid-1800s and early 1900s, fly infestations caused crippling epidemics in London and New York.

Plagues and deaths around me fly, Till he please, I cannot die, wrote Victorian preacher Charles Spurgeon in 1866, amid a cholera outbreak in Londons East End that killed over 5,500 people.

Billions of the insects have landed in the city, making eating, walking and working impossible - Ayman Ahmad

The house fly is such a good transmitter of disease it has even been used as a weapon of war.

In World War Two, Japans notorious biological warfare programme, known as Unit 731, developed ceramic bombs containing flies and Vibrio cholerae bacteria, which causes cholera.

They were dropped onto the Chinese city of Baoshan, with the flies spreading cholera throughout the countrys Yunnan province.

Almost as many people were killed in the resulting epidemic as the atomic bombs in Nagasaki and Hiroshima.

The flies feed on rotting and decaying matter, including faeces, and can multiply at an astonishing rate if left unchecked.

Poor sanitation, overcrowding and warm and wet weather provide the perfect conditions for fly populations to quickly spiral out of control.

They lay 100 to 200 eggs every time they breed, and they breed every five days or so, said Professor Wall. They will remain in high populations as long as conditions are correct. They will persist.

Dough is left abandoned in a bakery after flies contaminated the produce - Twitter

The Musca fly spreads disease by accumulating bacteria, viruses or parasites within their oesophagus and digestive system and regurgitating them in human foods or open wounds.

The microscopic hairs on their legs and bodies can also trap and spread pathogens.

Five million people are currently internally displaced in Sudan, many of them crowded into refugee camps that do not have waste disposal systems or access to hygienic facilities.

The weather in Port Sudan has been unusually warm and humid in recent weeks, something Professor Ahmed linked to climate change.

Overpopulation, limited surfaces, and climate change in terms of heavy rain and humidity, means this outbreak is worse than any we have seen before. Its a combination of man-made and natural situations, and war and conflict.

According to Professor Ahmed, there have already been over 5,000 cases of cholera in the region and 200 deaths, as well as cases of dengue and dysentery.

The infestation is high density, its covered every surface around including food, even peoples bodies and everywhere. Its gotten out of control.

Poor sanitation has provided the perfect conditions for the insects to flourish - Ayman Ahmad

Authorities in Port Sudan have closed the main market and are trying to fight back by spraying pesticides from planes flying over the city.

So far they have used aircraft spraying, which is not an effective way to control fly infestations, because most of this infestation is coming from waste material, indoors and outdoors. It requires, first of all, proper waste management, Professor Ahmed said.

Flies can also develop resistance to pesticides where they are overused. It also needs to be applied directly, rather than sprayed from above, he said.

Professor Wall said that there is little individuals can do to seek refuge from flies as unlike with mosquitos, sheltering under a net is not an effective way to keep safe.

The only way to solve the spiralling situation is to fix the issues of sewage and food waste, he said.

In these sorts of situations, there are usually so many problems that this is one more added to the list. There are refugee populations, poverty, poor sanitation, and overcrowding. And then on top of that, youll get flight-transmitted disease. It will result in major problems.

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Though he called it his forever home in a 2021 Architectural Digest article, Fredrik Eklund is already seeking to offload the Beverly Hills estate he and his artist husband Derek Kaplan picked up barely two years ago. Asking $11 million, the current listing represents a $4 million bump in price since then.

Built in 2017and fully transformed throughout during the couples short-term ownership in collaboration with noted New York interior designer Paris Forino, complete with every shade of pink and blush imaginable the East Coast traditional property rests on just over a third-acre of land in the Coldwater Canyon neighborhood. Affectionately known as the Color House, the wood-sided structure includes seven bedrooms and eight baths in a little more than 5,600 square feet of living space spanning two levels.

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Vividly hued rooms crafted by New York designer Paris Forino are complemented by striking fireplaces.

A gated driveway empties out at a spacious motorcourt flanked by a single-car garage and welcoming front porch shrouded in ivy. Once inside, a double-height foyer topped by an Apparatus cloud chandelier leads to a sitting room enhanced with a copper and black marble fireplace, as well as a formal yet fun dining room boasting a whimsical necklace chandelier.

Further back, an open-concept great room that opens via walls of glass to the backyard is decked out with a copper, blue and pink kitchen sporting a bespoke LAtelier Paris range, large eat-in island wrapped in leather-finished marble, and cozy breakfast nook holding a built-in banquette clad in Kvadrat and Svenstk Tenn fabrics. An adjacent family room displays a marble fireplace and an integrated LED-lighted bookcase that stretches to the ceiling.

A custom LAtelier Paris range is front and center in the copper, blue and pink kitchen.

Elsewhere in the house is a screening room, gym, cold plunge, an infrared sauna and office that can be closed off with ribbed glass doors, along with a cove-ceilinged master retreat outfitted with Phillip Jeffries wallpaper, a fireside sitting area, private balcony and boutique-worthy walk-in closet, plus a luxe bath equipped with a marble floor, dual vanities with LED mirrors and a freestanding Waterworks tub.

Outdoors, the resort-like grounds are laced with mature olive trees, and host a lap pool and spa, barbecue and bar setup, and charming spots ideal for al fresco lounging and entertaining.

Woven lanterns hanging from olive trees enhance an outdoor lounge area nestled alongside a fireplace.

In addition to the for-sale Beverly Hills residence, which was recently offered for lease at $50,000 per month, the longtime Million Dollar Listing New York and Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles cast member still maintains a stylish Connecticut home he purchased in 2016 for nearly $3 million. He also has reportedly relocated to Miami, where hes busy expanding his real estate business.

The listing is held by Marcy Roth and Alexander Vichinsky of Douglas Elliman.

Click here for more photos of Fredrik Eklunds Beverly Hills house.

Fredrik Eklund house Beverly Hills

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If seeing America's natural and cultural wonders is part of your 2024 travel plans, now you can plan a visit around the days when entry fees are waived.

The National Park Service recently announced its six free-admission days for 2024, including one new free day.

The free admission days fall on significant milestone dates or days when volunteer service at the parks is part of the tradition.

On these days, entrance fees are waived at the 423 national parks, monuments, recreation areas and other locations nationwide that charge them. Keep in mind you'll still have to pay for activities like camping and launching boats, as well as activities offered by a concessionaire, like mule rides at Grand Canyon National Park.

A haunted road trip: Here's your guide to Arizona's spookiest places

Free national park days 2024

Monday, Jan. 15: Admission is free in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Many people take the day to participate in community service, such as projects at national parks, to honor the legacy of the late civil rights leader.

Saturday, April 20: Entry fees are waived to celebrate the first day of National Park Week, an annual observance highlighting the history and culture of National Park Service sites. National Park Week is April 20-28, 2024.

Wednesday, June 19: New in 2024, admission fees will be waived in honor of Juneteenth National Independence Day, which celebrates the abolition of slavery. Juneteenth, which marks the day in 1865 when enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas, first learned of their freedom from slavery, became a federal holiday in 2021.

Sunday, Aug. 4: This date marks the fourth anniversary of the signing of the Great American Outdoors Act. Passed in 2020, the legislation funds up to $1.9 billion in national parks and forests annually for five years. The park service considers it a "landmark legislation," in part because it enables them to upgrade infrastructure and improve the visitor experience.

Saturday, Sept. 28: National Public Lands Day is the nation's largest single-day volunteer effort supporting public lands like national and state parks. It's observed on the fourth Saturday of September. Many parks honor the occasion by organizing volunteer projects such as planting native plant species and removing invasive plants.

Monday, Nov, 11: All visitors get free admission on Veterans Day to honor the military members who served our country. Offering free access on Veterans Day highlights many park service sites' connections to the military, such as Fort Bowie National Historic Site in southern Arizona.

Arizona national parks with free days in 2024

Arizona has 22 National Park Service sites, including three national parks. Fourteen of them waive entry fees on free admission days.

Here are the parks that normally charge admission fees. The cost is per vehicle and good for seven days unless otherwise noted.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area: $30.

Grand Canyon National Park: $35..

Lake Mead National Recreation Area: $25.

Montezuma Castle National Monument: $10 per person.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument: $25.

Petrified Forest National Park: $25.

Pipe Spring National Monument: $10 per person.

Saguaro National Park: $25.

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument: $25.

Tonto National Monument: $10 per person.

Tumacacori National Historical Park: $10 per person.

Tuzigoot National Monument: $10 per person.

Walnut Canyon National Monument: $25.

Wupatki National Monument: $25.

Arizona national parks that are always free

Eight of Arizona's National Park Service sites are free to visit every day:

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument.

Chiricahua National Monument.

Coronado National Memorial.

Fort Bowie National Historic Site.

Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument.

Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site.

Navajo National Monument.

Sneak peek: Inside downtown Phoenix's newest hotel where you check in at the bar

Reach Michael Salerno at Michael.Salerno@gannett.com. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter: @salerno_phx.

Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Free national park days in 2024: Here's how much you can save
Photo taken on March 3, 2021 shows Peacock Blue colored glaze handicrafts in Ge Yuansheng's workshop in Taiyuan, north China's Shanxi Province. (Xinhua/Yang Chenguang)

The colored glaze artworks are handmade and include ceramics, architecture, and sculpture. Colored glaze was widely used to decorate palaces, temples, and pagodas in ancient China because of its color and variable shape.

PARIS/TAIYUAN, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- In Houetteville Castle in Normandy, France, colored glaze products from China have been on display for more than half a month, and many French people have come here to see these exquisite artworks from the East.

From Nov. 2 to 5, Shanxi Zhangbi Ancient Fortress was invited to participate in the Salon International du Patrimoine Culturel (SIPC) held at the Louvre Museum in Paris. In just a few days, this ancient fortress with a history of more than 1,600 years has attracted thousands of French people, and its colored glaze products have become popular at the expo.

"To let more people know about these exquisite artworks, I gave advice to Lu Yang, the head of Zhangbi Ancient Fortress scenic spot, to display these artworks at our castle in Normandy after the expo, and then tour Europe," said Nathalie Geslin-Yu, president of Club Des Chatelains Chinois de France (Chinese French-chateaux owners club), a French castle organization. "The brilliant colors and oriental shapes of the products are what attract people. I bought a collection myself."

The colored glaze artworks are handmade and include ceramics, architecture, and sculpture. Colored glaze was widely used to decorate palaces, temples, and pagodas in ancient China because of its color and variable shape.

"The artwork has elegant lines and gorgeous color, which is of great appreciation and collection value," said Bai Huaibin, an expert in traditional colored glaze production who participated in the expo.

Lu said the most popular exhibit at the expo is an imitation of Xie Zhi, a one-horned mythical creature reputed to be able to distinguish between good and evil. This doe-eyed creature has been popular in China for years before it made its appearance in France.

"Xie Zhi was often placed on the roofs in ancient times and is a symbol of bravery and justice. Now they often appear at the gates of courts and procuratorates," said Lu, who mentioned that Xie Zhi resembles the unicorn in Western culture, a creature that symbolizes purity and is believed to suppress anything morally degraded.

In Jiexiu City, north China's Shanxi Province, where Zhangbi Ancient Fortress is located, there are many colored glaze products with hundreds of years of history, among which the components on the top of Kong Wang Hall in the fortress are particularly exquisite.

Rebuilt in 1631, the roof of the hall is decorated with yellow, green, and blue glaze components, with different shapes such as dragons and phoenixes, peonies, and warriors. In addition, the two peacock blue tablets located under the eaves of Kong Wang Hall are the only Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) colored glaze tablets found in China at present.

The reason why these products were well-preserved in the fortress is closely related to its military purpose. Lu said that Zhangbi Ancient Fortress in ancient times was located in the border zone of the northern nomads and the central plains. To resist foreign enemies, the ancients built a military and civilian castle with tall walls and underground tunnels, which could be used in wartime to ready troops and store grain during peace times.

Gong Hua, secretary-general of the World Castle Association, said that when it comes to castles or fortresses, many would think of Europe, but China actually also has many castles, especially in Shanxi Province, and the numerous castles in the Fenhe River and Qinhe River basin are comparable to the world-famous French Loire Valley castle group.

"This exhibition gives the European public access to Chinese castles for the first time through videos and cultural and creative artworks. The original introduction video, without any explanation, attracted many visitors to watch it from beginning to end. Many people have expressed interest in going to China to see more castles," Gong said.

Lu said that during the expo, French castle owners, European cultural heritage industry associations, companies, and castle lovers had extensive exchanges with him on the protection of historical buildings, cultural tourism industry development, and other topics.

"France has many cultural protection and development enterprises... I hope we can continue to expand cooperation areas in the future," said Lu.

"Castles are an important part of the world cultural heritage and a common topic between Chinese and foreign cultures," said Gong, adding that they will take the opportunity of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and France and the Year of Culture and Tourism between China and France next year to promote cultural connectivity between the two countries through cultural exchanges and cooperation.
If you ask me for a restaurant recommendation in New York City, or if youre visiting me, the first spot that quickly comes out of my mouth is Rubirosa. I first discovered this iconic NYC Italian-American spot when someone suggested we eat dinner there one night in 2017, and its been my go-to since then. While their Instagram-famous Tie-Dye pizza has my total heart (were talking tomato, vodka, and pesto sauce on this pie!) and you absolutely have to get it when you go, I wouldnt dare replicate this masterpiece at home. However, Rubirosa now sells a variety of their staples like olive oil, sauces, and pastas so you can bring Rubirosas delicious glory straight to your kitchen. And I was lucky enough to give the popular NYC restaurants Pasta Sampler a try!

I already had the pleasure of trying Rubirosas extra virgin olive oil months ago, which made any dish I made instantly feel fancier, so I was over-the-moon to get the chance to try out this Popcorn Factory-sized tin of the restaurants popular pastas. The restaurants new online storefront is especially exciting because if youve tried to snag a table IRL, you know its quite the challenge  Ive often waited two hours once I added my name to the waitlist. So, taking their pasta and sauces home is the best way to get the Mulberry Street experience without a reservation!

Rubirosa Pasta Sampler

Rubirosa Pasta Sampler $42.99

Buy Now

What is the Rubirosa Pasta Sampler?

The trio includes three unique pasta shapes thatll make weeknight dinners feel so much more elevated: Lumache, Trottole, and Casarecce. This ultra-giftable tin includes 1 pound of each pasta  now thats a lot of noodles! Whether you mix them together or keep them separate, there are so many combinations you can create. Add on Rubirosas signature Vodka Sauce, Marinara, and Olive Oil, and youve got a fancy dinner that even youll impress yourself with (you can buy a gift set of all these goodies). Psst: Rubirosa is kind enough to have their recipes online, so I recommend taking a peek for some seriously mouthwatering inspo!



Credit: Tamara Kraus Credit: Tamara Kraus

Credit: Tamara Kraus Credit: Tamara Kraus

Why I Love the Rubirosa Pasta Sampler

Whats more iconic than the beloved popcorn tin around the holidays? A popcorn tin overflowing with Rubirosas pasta, of course! Whether you live in NYC or not, its the perfect way to bring Rubriosas flavor into your kitchen without having to leave your home. And best of all, when youve eaten all of it (which I promise wont take long), you can repurpose the tin however you like. Might I suggest buying more Rubirosa pasta and filling up the tin again? If you dont want to purchase their pastas individually, this is the ultimate way to try them all at once.

And if youre looking for the perfect holiday gift for the pasta lover in your life, you cant go wrong with this sure-to-delight sampler.

Buy: Rubirosa Pasta Sampler, $42.99
The change is effective Jan. 1, 2024.

FEBRUARY/Getty Images

Peru's famous Machu Picchu is an iconic destination in South America. Dubbed "the lost city of the Incas," the 15th-century citadel was discovered in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham and was later designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. The ruins only allow a maximum of 3,800 visitors per day, but that's slated to change in the new year.

Local government officials recently announced that Machu Picchu will accept more visitors  as many as 4,500 guests per day  starting Jan. 1, 2024. According to Peru's Ministry of Culture, on some days, the site will welcome up to 5,600 daily visitors.

The goal is to help revive Peru's tourism after the pandemic. For reference, Peru reportedly welcomed 4.5 million visitors in 2020 before the pandemic. The country is expected to only have 2.2 million visitors by the end of 2023. (It should be noted that Peru experienced civil unrest earlier this year and officials closed Machu Picchu. As of last month, the U.S. Department of State had a level 2 advisory on the nation.)

According to the officials, conserving the site remains a priority.



The state-owned Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu is an integral part of Perus national protected areas system and enjoys protection through several layers of a comprehensive legal framework for both cultural and natural heritage, UNESCO shares in the description of Machu Picchu.



The Ministry of Culture also shared on social media that they would increase the enforcement of proper entry times and other rules to protect the integrity of the historical sites. As part of the entry timing system, the tourism office recommends purchasing tickets in advance on the official website, which costs approximately $42.





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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure.
Grinding coffee is a messy business. Static electricity builds up on the grounds, leaving a clingy mess stuck in the grinder. Now, a team of chemists and volcanologists at the University of Oregon have unraveled precisely how moisture affects the buildup of static - and they've come up with a simple solution.

According to the researchers, adding a spritz of water to the beans before grinding cuts static. It also happens to create a more consistent, stronger-tasting shot of espresso.

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The new study, published in the journal Matter, might not shock avid coffee geeks, who have honed their techniques through years of intuition, experience and tips traded in online forums. Some baristas, for example, already use a wet teaspoon to stir coffee beans or spray a squirt of water on beans to reduce static, a practice known as the "Ross Droplet Technique" or RDT. But the new paper shows systematically how moisture in coffee beans affects the build up of charge and how it can be manipulated.

"The idea you get some type of electrical buildup in coffee grounds is a pretty old observation. If you've never seen an industrial scale roastery, you can see coffee grounds flying up and sticking all over the place," said William Ristenpart, founding director of the Coffee Center at the University of California at Davis who was not involved in the study. "What's cool about this paper is it's putting some hard science, some hard data, behind understanding the mechanism."

The paper also sheds more light on the burgeoning field of coffee science, which draws together experts from across seemingly incongruous disciplines to conduct dozens of drinkable experiments and probe the fundamental science behind a cup of joe.

Case in point: The new study was a partnership between scientists interested in coffee grinding and volcanologists fascinated by the lightning storms generated during eruptions. These scientists don't just work in different labs - they basically inhabit different scientific universes, publishing in specialized journals and going to separate conferences.

But over a cup of coffee, the two teams realized that they were studying the same core phenomenon. Whether it is a burr grinder smashing up beans or an explosive eruption pulverizing rock into ash, friction and fractures result in tiny particles that accumulate electric charge in the process.

While many of the details of their investigation are abstruse to the casual coffee drinker, their paper contains simple, actionable results for a person trying to keep a tidier kitchen or a barista trying to create an efficient and more intense shot of espresso.

"If you're going to be grinding whole-bean coffee, adding a small amount of water to those whole beans before you grind them will result in the coffee being more accessible when you brew it," said Christopher Hendon, a coffee chemist at the University of Oregon and one of the leaders of the study.

In other words, using this method, "you get more coffee out of your coffee."

- - -

Discovering common ground

The collaboration began at Hendon's coffee laboratory at the University of Oregon, which hosts regular coffee hours.

Josh Mendez Harper, then a postdoctoral researcher in a volcanology lab, started attending as a casual coffee drinker - the kind of person who would gulp down whatever he was handed without a second thought. But over time, he became a regular and started to geek out on coffee.

One day, he overheard Hendon and others debating how electricity builds up during grinding.

"I said, 'Oh! That's what I spend the last five years doing, but in a different context,'" Mendez Harper recalled. To study how charge builds up on volcanic ash, volcanologists sometimes use a device called a Faraday cup. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with drinking - it's a conducting metal cup, and scientists can use it to measure the charge on individual particles, then calculate the density of that charge by weighing them.

The scientists decided to collaborate. Using a simple, custom-built Faraday cup that had been machined to fit the chute of their coffee grinder, they set out to see if they could make similar measurements of coffee grounds.

In experiments that ranged from grinding commercially produced coffee to roasting their own beans to different levels, the team found that moisture modulated the amount of charge on coffee grounds. Lighter roast coffees that have more internal moisture gained less static charge during grinding and tended to charge positively. Darker roasts, which are drier, gained more charge and tended to accumulate negative charge.

The scientists were intrigued that coffee sometimes charged in one direction, and sometimes in the other, and that internal moisture played a key role.

"This is what nobody could anticipate," said Samo Smrke, an analytical chemist at ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences in Switzerland who was not involved in the work.

Smrke said that one approach being used in the coffee industry involves a beam of charged particles called an ion beam. Sending either positive or negative ions could neutralize the coffee's charge, but without knowing whether coffee will build up charge in either direction, the beam that neutralizes the charge on one type of coffee might make it worse for another.

In this case, the scientists found they could suppress the charging altogether simply by adding external moisture - just a squirt of water before grinding.

Reducing static not only cut down on mess, it also avoided clumps in the coffee. That means when brewing espresso, the water reaches all the coffee grounds evenly, increasing the concentration of the end product by about 10 percent. (The brewing results don't really apply to coffee made in a French press or other brewing methods in which the grounds are immersed in water.)

Experts said that the study is a prime example of just how many low-hanging scientific fruits remain in the world of coffee, with opportunities to bring rigorous experimental techniques and measurements to something many people do one - or more - times a day.

"There are a lot of things that are just not properly researched," said Chahan Yeretzian, head of the Coffee Excellence Center at the ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences who was not involved in the new study.

Josef Dufek, a volcanologist at the University of Oregon, says that coffee is a fascinating model system, and he plans to apply similar techniques in trying to understand volcanic ash. Mendez Harper sees connections to even more exotic questions. The dunes on Saturn's moon Titan, which are made of carbon-rich sand, may be similarly influenced by static charging as the particles rub against one another.

But Mendez Harper is hooked on coffee. As he starts his own lab at Portland State University, he plans to continue this multidisciplinary line of research.

"If you brew a pour-over coffee, the physics there, the math, is the same you apply to water percolating through soil or magma moving through a porous rock matrix," Mendez Harper said. "There are a lot of parallels beyond static generation between coffee and earth sciences."

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The California High-Speed Rail has received its biggest boost from the federal government yet, being awarded more than $3 billion in grant funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

The announcement was made Tuesday and was confirmed by California Sen. Alex Padilla and Rep. Nancy Pelosi.

California takes great pride in our ambitious status as the leading edge of high-speed rail in America, Pelosi said on X, previously Twitter. With $3 billion in new federal funding, we take an important leap closer to making high-speed rail a reality in California.

The grant is the largest chunk of federal funding the California High-Speed Rail Authority has been awarded since the states most ambitious public transportation project was approved by voters in 2008.

Construction work has been chugging along steadily in the Central Valley, as crews construct the first portion of the California High-Speed Rail, which is being referred to as the initial operating segment. The initial operating segment will connect Merced to Bakersfield along a 171-mile electrified track when it begins service sometime around 2030.

The federal grant funding is expected to be used to help complete this initial segment of the system, as well as help pay for the high-speed electric trainsets that will one day complete a full 500-mile journey between the Bay Area and the greater Los Angeles area.

The High-Speed Rail Authority expects that portion of the system, identified as Phase 1, to begin operation sometime in the 2030s. Eventually, the Authority plans to expand the system to more than 800 miles between Sacramento and San Diego as part of Phase 2.

Burbank Airport drops suit against CA High-Speed Rail

Momentum for the high-speed rail has been building in recent months, with several major infrastructure projects completed in the Central Valley. Earlier this year, the Biden Administration awarded the High-Speed Rail Authority a $200 million grant, which was one of the largest pieces of federal funding support awarded to the project in its history.

High-speed rail rendering

Despite opposition from some Republicans in Congress, the California High-Speed Rail Authority has been the benefactor of two major supporters of clean energy and passenger rail.

Earlier in October, California Governor Gavin Newsom wrote a letter to President Joe Biden, thanking him for his continued support of Californias clean energy initiatives and urged him to approve the federal grant application to help complete the initial operating segment.

Biden has previously shown support for California high-speed rail, restoring a nearly $1 billion grant to the High-Speed Rail Authority in 2021 that had been blocked by the Trump Administration.

Perhaps the most well-known supporter of passenger rail, Biden has long advocated for Amtrak funding and was a regular rider during his time in the Senate, earning him the nickname Amtrak Joe.

Federal support for Americas passenger rail systems was a key component of the presidents landmark Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill.

High-Speed rail proposes change to L.A.-to-Anaheim segment

CAHSR officials have said some of the money from this grant could also be used to complete geotechnical work required to begin tunnelling through the mountains in Southern California, which would need to be completed to make the Bay Area to L.A. a reality. That portion of the system will be among the most expensive and challenging endeavors the project will face.

The Biden Administration began Tuesday by doling out massive amounts of grant funding to public transportation projects across the country, including a similar electric high-speed rail project in Southern California.

Image from the California High-Speed Rail shows the Davis Avenue Overcrossing Project, a grade separation along Davis Avenue in Fresno County.

Brightline West will connect Las Vegas to Rancho Cucamonga along the the 15 Freeway corridor. That project was awarded about $3 billion in grant funding, but is a private endeavor and is expected to cost about $12 billion, with the rest of the cost privately financed.

As of August 2023, the California High-Speed Rail says it has completed 43 structures, started work on 32 more and completed 53 miles of guideway. Work is beginning to expand from the current 119 miles of active construction to the full 171 of double-track electrified rail that will comprise the initial operating segment.

High-Speed Rail officials say almost all of the major environmental reviews throughout the system have been completed, with the main outlier being the segment between Palmdale and Burbank. Officials expect to have that completed in the coming months, with the Anaheim segment to receive clearance around 2025.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) on Tuesday revealed her father told her she was in danger Jan. 6, 2021, following former President Trumps speech to supporters shortly before some members of the group rioted at the Capitol.

Speaking to a crowd near the White House on Jan. 6, 2021, Trump said: We got to get rid of the weak congresspeople, the ones that arent any good, the Liz Cheneys of the world.

Cheney on Tuesday told CNN anchor Anderson Cooper that her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney, called her while she was in the cloakroom in the Capitol on Jan. 6 and informed her of Trumps comments, which she hadnt yet heard due to working on remarks.

And he said to me, Youre in danger,' Cheney said Tuesday night. And he said, We need to talk about it.  Given that hes just done this, that hes just targeted you specifically, what that means for you going to the House floor, what that means for you, in terms of speaking against objections.

Cheney said through the course of speaking with her father, it became clear she that couldnt not proceed because of this threat from Donald Trump.

But thats  you can imagine sort of the emotion of the moment to have my dad calling me to say the president has just targeted me in a way that put  me at risk, Cheney added.

The Washington Post reported in 2021 that Cheney did end up walking out to the House floor after the call with her father, with the intention of stopping Trump and his allies efforts to overturn the 2020 electoral college results. She soon heard rioters banging on the chambers doors and a shot fired, and moved to a secure location.

Cheney later came out and pinned the blame on Trump for allegedly inciting the riot. She served as vice chair of the House select committee investigating Jan. 6 and became one of the most outspoken GOP critics of the former president.

Cheneys remarks come on the heels of her new memoir titled Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning, which was released Tuesday. The book chronicles her concerns over a second term with Trump in the White House and details her criticisms of the current Republican Party, both leading up to Jan. 6 and the partys later response.

Cheney lost her seat in the House after three terms to Trump-backed challenger, Rep. Harriet Hageman, during the 2022 primaries in Wyoming, where Trump maintained large support among voters.

Despite departing Congress, Cheney has remained a vocal critic of both Trump and other Republican leaders, including Speaker Mike Johnson (La.) and former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (Calif.), both of whom she discusses in her memoir.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The resolution, filed by councilwoman Victoria Parks, requested that the Ohio Secretary of State exclude Trump from the 2024 primary election ballot.

Cincinnati City Council Wednesday rejected a resolution that called for removing former president Donald Trump's name from Ohio's ballots for the 2024 presidential election.

The resolution, filed by councilwoman Victoria Parks, requested that the Ohio Secretary of State exclude Trump from the 2024 primary election ballot, saying he "helped coordinate a violent attack on the United States Capitol building, hoping to overturn the results of a lawful presidential election."

In a statement, the U.S. Air Force veteran and first-term council member said the Constitution's 14th amendment makes Trump ineligible to run since it declares no one can hold office in the United States who has "engaged in insurrection or rebellion against" the Constitution.

Council's vote was 7-2, with Parks joined only by councilman Scotty Johnson in supporting the resolution. The council is officially nonpartisan, though eight of the nine members are Democrats.

"I hesitate that we should speak from this dais, and use taxpayer money, to advocate for a political candidate or against," said councilman Mark Jeffreys.

Liz Keating, council's lone Republican, said the resolution went "against everything we stand for, against democracy."

Why Parks introduced the resolution

"I took an oath to defend our country against terrorists, foreign and domestic," Parks told The Enquirer in an earlier interview. "As an Ohio resident, as a policymaker, as a veteran, I resent him coming after our democracy."

Parks was referring to Jan. 6, 2021, when a mob of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol building in an attempt to halt the certification of the 2020 presidential election results showing Joe Biden won.

"I could not believe my eyes," Parks remembered. "He is the first person in our country's history to interfere with the peaceful transition of power."

What Republicans said

"Sounds like a political stunt that would not be binding because of state law," Hamilton County Republican party chair Russell Mock told The Enquirer.

The Ohio Secretary of State's office has already declared that Trump can't be dumped from the Ohio ballot. "Secretary (Frank) LaRose has no legal authority to keep a candidate off the ballot who legally qualifies under Ohio law," said spokeswoman Mary Cianciolo in a statement sent earlier to Axios.

There have been several attempts to block Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican nomination, from the 2024 ballot. Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) filed a lawsuit in September calling for Trump to be blocked from the Colorado ballot. Similar attempts to remove Trump from the ballot have occurred in New Hampshire, Michigan, Arizona, California, and Wyoming.

Arguments for CREW's lawsuit are being heard in the Colorado Supreme Court. There has been little progress on removal efforts in California, and the rest have failed.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: 2024 election: Will Trump be on Ohio ballot?
WASHINGTON  Special counsel Jack Smith plans to use former President Donald Trump's own words against him in the upcoming federal election interference trial, according to a new court filing.

Prosecutors said in Tuesday's filing that they want to focus on Trump's long history of calling election results "fraud" when the results don't suit him, as well as his vocal support for violent Jan. 6 rioters.

In addition to a lengthy list of Trump's public statements over the past decade, the nine-page filing from Smith's office refers to an incident involving an unidentified Trump campaign employee who allegedly tried to obstruct the 2020 vote count in the battleground state of Michigan, which Trump won in 2016, after the tally began to swing Joe Biden's way.

According to prosecutors, the employee messaged a lawyer supporting the Trump campaign's operations in Detroit and "encouraged rioting and other methods of obstruction when he learned that the vote count was trending in favor of the defendants opponent."

That portion of the filing, which is largely redacted, said that soon after the messages were sent, "a large number of untrained individuals flooded" the voting site at the TCF Center, since renamed Huntington Place, "and began making illegitimate and aggressive challenges to the vote count. Thereafter, Trump made repeated false claims regarding election activities at the TCF Center, when in truth his agent was seeking to cause a riot to disrupt the count."

The bulk of the filing focuses on Trump's comments before and after the 2020 election, when he sought to sow doubt about the results and intimidate those who challenged him.

The filing said Trump's remarks casting doubt on the results of the 2012 and 2016 elections will be presented as evidence in his Washington, D.C., trial, scheduled to begin in March, because they reflect Trumps historical record of making such claims."

Molly Gaston, senior assistant special counsel, cited a tweet from Trump in November 2012 that she said made baseless claims that voting machines had switched votes from then-candidate (Mitt) Romney to then-candidate (Barack) Obama.

During the 2016 presidential campaign, the defendant claimed repeatedly, with no basis, that there was widespread voter fraud  including through public statements and tweets, Gaston added.

Statements like those, prosecutors argue, illustrate Trump's "plan of falsely blaming fraud for election results he does not like."

A spokesperson for Trump, Steven Cheung, said, Crooked Joe Biden, Deranged Jack Smith, and the rest of the Hacks and Thugs attempting to interfere in the 2024 election are getting so desperate to attack President Trump that they are perverting justice by trying to include claims that werent anywhere to be found in their dreamt up, fake indictment. President Trump will not be deterred.

Trump is charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States, conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction and conspiracy against the right to vote and to have ones vote counted for trying to prevent the peaceful transfer of power. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Prosecutors said they intend to show how Trump had "an established pattern of using public statements and social media posts to subject his perceived adversaries to threats and harassment."

Among other examples, the filing points to Trump's treatment of two Georgia election workers who aren't named but who fit the descriptions of Ruby Freeman and her daughter, Wandrea ArShaye "Shaye" Moss, who were falsely accused of rigging votes by Trump and his allies. The filing says Trump continued to "falsely attack" the pair "despite being on notice that his claims about them in 2020 were false and had subjected them to vile, racist, and violent threats and harassment."

It also noted that after the House Jan. 6 committee published transcripts of its interviews with the two women in December of last year, when they "provided graphic testimony about the threats and harassment they endured after the defendant and his agents falsely accused them," Trump then "doubled down and recommenced his attacks on the election workers in posts on Truth Social. He even zeroed in on one of the election workers, falsely writing that she was an election fraudster, a liar, and one of the 'treacher[ous] . . . monsters' who stole the country, and that she would be in legal trouble."

The filing said those attacks are "after-the-fact corroboration" of Trump's intent because his remarks came "after it was incontrovertibly clear" that his false claims had caused them harm. That sequence of events, prosecutors argue, means "that the jury may properly infer that he intended that result."

Another redacted portion of the filing alleges that Trump and "co-conspirator 1," who NBC News has identified as his then-lawyer Rudy Giuliani, retaliated against the former chief counsel to the Republican National Committee for "publicly refuting" their election fraud lies.

A spokesperson for Giuliani did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Smith's office said it also plans to point to Trump's public support of some Jan. 6 rioters as "patriots" and political hostages.

"Of particular note are the specific January 6 offenders whom the defendant has supported namely, individuals convicted of some of the most serious crimes charged in relation to January 6, such as seditious conspiracy and violent assaults on police officers," the filing said. "During a September 17, 2023, appearance on Meet the Press, for instance, the defendant said regarding Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarriowho was convicted of seditious conspiracy'I want to tell you, he and other people have been treated horribly.' The defendant then criticized the kinds of lengthy sentences received only by defendants who, like Tarrio, committed the most serious crimes on January 6."

Tarrio was sentenced to 22 years in prison, before Trump's remarks on "Meet the Press," for his role in plotting the breach of the Capitol.

"Evidence of the defendants post-conspiracy embrace of particularly violent and notorious rioters is admissible to establish the defendants motive and intent on January 6that he sent supporters, including groups like the Proud Boys, whom he knew were angry, and whom he now calls 'patriots,' to the Capitol to achieve the criminal objective of obstructing the congressional certification," it said.

"And finally, evidence of the defendants statements regarding possible pardons for January 6 offenders is admissible to help the jury assess the credibility and motives of trial witnesses, because through such comments, the defendant is publicly signaling that the law does not apply to those who act at his urging regardless of the legality of their actions."

Daniel Barnes reported from Washington, and Dareh Gregorian from New York.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Despite high-profile losses, Russia's navy has been largely untouched by the war in Ukraine.

Russian submarines, especially Yasen-class cruise-missile subs, are a top concern for NATO.

Russia may expand the Yasen-class program, with reports indicating three more subs will be built.

Russia's navy has been largely untouched by the war in Ukraine, despite high-profile losses, and Moscow plans to continue investing in it, including by building more of the Yasen-class submarines that have become a top concern for NATO.

It took two decades to build Russia's first Yasen-class sub, called Severodvinsk, which entered service in 2013, but the pace has picked up, with two more entering service in 2021 and the fourth expected to join the fleet this month. Five more have been launched or are under construction.

A Russian defense industry source told state media outlet Tass in mid-2022 that Moscow was considering adding two more subs to the nine Yasen-class subs it had planned to build. In November, however, a source "close to" Russia's navy said the plan had expanded, telling Tass that three additional subs were expected to be built.

The expansion would allow Russia's navy to assign six subs each to its Northern and Pacific fleets, according to the Tass report, which said the plan had not been officially confirmed.

Yasen-class sub Severodvinsk during its launch ceremony at a shipyard in the city of Severodvinsk in June 2010. Sasha Mordovets/Getty Images

Submarines are a relative bright spot in Russia's recent naval modernization efforts, and the Yasen class, which are designated nuclear-powered cruise-missile submarines, has a number of features that worry NATO commanders.

The subs built after Severodvinsk are Yasen-M submarines and have several upgrades, which appear to include improved sonar and a reactor that is smaller and quieter than earlier models. Western officials are perhaps most concerned by the subs' ability to launch land-attack and anti-ship cruise missiles, a relatively new capability that they worry could allow the subs to approach and strike valuable targets in Europe and North America.

The challenge presented by the Yasen class' ability "to deploy undetected within cruise-missile range of our coastlines" will be compounded when the Zircon hypersonic cruise missile is added to its arsenal, Gen. Glen VanHerck, who oversees military operations around North America as head of US Northern Command, told lawmakers in early 2022.

A Russian shipbuilding official said this summer that efforts to arm Yasen-M subs with Zircon missiles were "already underway."

Russian Yasen-class sub Kazan at its home base in Severomorsk in June 2021. Lev Fedoseyev\TASS via Getty Images

VanHerck, who has said Yasen-class subs are "on par with ours," is one of several officials who have expressed respect and concern for those submarines.

In 2014, the officer responsible for submarines at US Naval Sea Systems Command said he was so impressed with the Severodvinsk that he put a replica in his office. In 2022, Ine Eriksen Sreide, Norway's defense minister from 2013 to 2017, said she brought a picture of the sub to her first meeting with US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis because it was "so important for us to convey to the US that this was really one of the big strategic challenges that we saw."

Pentagon officials told CBS News in 2018 that Severodvinsk had been able to sail into the Atlantic and evade attempts to find it for weeks  an account echoed this year by a British defense official, speaking under Chatham House rule, who said at an event in Washington DC that NATO forces frequently lose track of Yasen-class subs while they're at sea.

VanHerck and other military leaders have also warned about increased Russian submarine activity near the US. In January, Adm. Michael Studeman, who retired as commander of the Office of Naval Intelligence in July, said that Yasen-class subs were patrolling in the Atlantic and one had been assigned to Russia's Pacific Fleet, which meant the subs would soon pose "a dual-flank challenge" to the US.

Canadian and British frigates with a German sub during a NATO anti-submarine-warfare exercise in July 2020. British Royal Navy/LPhot Dan Rosenbaum

Despite technological advances, Russia's submarine fleet is smaller than its Soviet predecessor, and NATO officials say their forces retain an advantage in undersea warfare. NATO navies have also stepped up their training for anti-submarine warfare in recent years, and the US Navy is making its subs unusually visible in the North Atlantic, demonstrating their presence in waters that Russian subs would have to traverse to reach the wider Atlantic.

The state media report on the expansion of the Yasen-class program comes alongside a dramatic increase in Russian defense spending, which is expected to almost double year-over-year in 2024. After significant losses among Russian land forces in Ukraine, that spending increase shows Moscow is focused on rebuilding a military that already has plenty of weapons with which to threaten NATO.

"I see nothing that's going on in the Russian naval maritime forces at the moment that tells me that they have significantly degraded their major capabilities," Adm. Ben Key, the British navy's highest-ranking officer, said at an event in October.

"Their nuclear submarine fleet has not been affected by what's gone on to the war in Ukraine," nor have their long-range aviation fleet or their strategic nuclear forces, Key added. "So their ability to offer a very real threat to NATO, to Western forces, is absolutely there."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs speaks before President Joe Biden gave a speech on democracy Sept. 28, 2023, at the Tempe Center for the Arts.

Gov. Katie Hobbs' educator retention task force released 11 recommendations on Tuesday, less than a year after the group was assembled to address what the governor called an "educator retention crisis" in the state.

The group recommended Hobbs prioritize raising and maintaining average salaries for teachers and certified staff to align with national averages and to similarly adjust salaries for classified staff, which include teacher assistants, food service workers and transportation employees.

According to the National Education Association, as of the 2021-22 school year, Arizona's average teacher salary was $56,775, compared to the national average of $66,745. In November, Republican state legislators announced a plan they said would boost teacher pay by an average of $4,000 per year.

The task force also recommended Hobbs partner with state agencies to reduce the cost of health insurance plans that include dependent coverage and expand the state's 12-week paid parental leave pilot program to educators.

In addition, the group suggested Hobbs support state-level policies to improve educators' working conditions, like decreasing class sizes and workload, increasing levels of support staff, giving educators enough planning time and addressing school safety concerns.

Other recommendations included asking the Arizona State Board of Education to conduct a study on the retention rates of the different educator pathways, ensuring educators are aware of options for student loan forgiveness, developing strong school leadership, creating an educator advisory group to regularly provide feedback to the governor's office, supporting statewide on-the-job training and mentoring programs for early career teachers and collecting additional data on the educator workforce.

How the teacher retention task force arrived at its recommendations

Hobbs created the 19-member task force by executive order in February. Her office held the first meeting in April.

The group was tasked with making recommendations by December, in time for Hobbs to identify priorities for the next regular legislative session and her 2024 State of the State address.

According to an Arizona School Personnel Administrators Association survey of 131 school districts and charter schools, as of September 2023, nearly 30% of teacher vacancies were unfilled and around 53% of the vacancies were filled by teachers who didn't meet the state's standard certification requirements.

The task force met seven times, including its final meeting on Tuesday. It looked at best practices around the country and partnered with Arizona State University's Morrison Institute for Public Policy to conduct a 2023 Educator Working Conditions Study, which included surveys, interviews and focus groups with current and former K-12 public educators.

The survey respondents for the working conditions study included nearly 8,000 current educators, over 700 former educators and over 900 education support professionals and classified staff, according to Alison Cook-Davis, Morrison Institute's research director. Most of the respondents were from district schools in urban areas, she said.

The survey found that educators were primarily concerned with low salaries and high workloads.

According to the study, the top concern across all groups was pay, said Luisa Arreola, a task force member and language arts teacher at San Luis Middle School, during Tuesday's task force meeting.

"It is a stark reality that impacts morale, dedication, and, ultimately, retention," she said.

Educators suggested more competitive pay, compensation for additional duties, more built-in planning time, more support staff and pay increases for more experienced teachers.

Cook-Davis said during Tuesday's meeting that almost 70% of current educators responded that they considered leaving the profession for reasons other than retirement in the past 12 months. Among the former educators, 80% cited "feeling burned out," and 73% cited "unable to have a healthy work-life balance" as reasons for deciding to leave the profession.

School leadership was another issue that came up among respondents, with educators frequently mentioning feeling unsupported by leadership, Cook-Davis said. Educators also cited a lack of resources for high-need and rural areas and concerns about state-level policies.

"Many educators mentioned the lack of funding for education and how that impacts their day-to-day in the classroom," Cook-Davis said. "There were general feelings that the state government was not supportive of education and that the state was enacting policy that was actually not good for students."

Cook-Davis mentioned English-only instruction and restrictions on social and emotional learning as examples of practices educators felt were problematic. Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne has long been a proponent of English immersion instruction for students learning English as a second language and filed a lawsuit earlier this year to stop schools from letting English learners participate in dual-language programs. Since taking office in January, he has also discouraged social and emotional learning, which he says distracts from core instruction.

"Current educators also expressed feeling scared or threatened by policies, and this was in relation to saying or doing the wrong thing in the classroom that could lead to being reported to a hotline or having to pay a fine," Cook-Davis said.

Horne launched a hotline earlier this year where people are encouraged to report, according to the Arizona Department of Education website, "inappropriate lessons that detract from teaching academic standards such as those that focus on race or ethnicity, rather than individuals and merit, promoting gender ideology, social emotional learning, or inappropriate sexual content."

Hobbs' task force is not the only group working on the issue of educator retention.

In October, the Arizona Community Foundation and the Steele Foundation released a report on teacher recruitment and retention. That report identified similar challenges to Hobbs' task force: high student-to-teacher ratios, low compensation and limited planning time. That report suggested implementing team-based teaching and other models to develop rookie teachers, improving compensation and working conditions and strengthening career pathways.

Madeleine Parrish covers K-12 education. Reach her at mparrish@arizonarepublic.com.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona teacher retention task force releases recommendations
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Finland Sauli Niinisto.

The letter reads as follows:

Dear Mr. President,

I sincerely congratulate you and your people on my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the National Holiday of the Republic of Finland  the Independence Day.

On this festive day, I wish you robust health, success in your endeavors, and your people everlasting peace and prosperity.

Sincerely,

Ilham Aliyev

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, 4 December 2023
Lakeland City Commission candidate Guy Lalonde Jr. and supporters wave to traffic as they campaign along Edgewood Drive near Cleveland Heights Golf and Country Club in Lakeland Fl.. Tuesday November 7,2023. Ernst Peters/The Ledger

LAKELAND  Guy LaLonde decisively won over Lakeland voters to become the elected representative of the city's Northwest District.

LaLonde received 4,173 ballots, or 57.5% of the votes, against interim Commissioner Sam Simmons, who received about 42.5% of the total vote.

"I've never wanted to do something so badly in my life other than serve," he told The Ledger days before the Dec. 5 runoff. "It's time to do the work."

LaLonde, 56, is the owner of Lakeland Moonwalk and Under One Tent Events, party rental and supply companies based in Lakeland. He serves as the vice chair of Polk County's Housing Finance Authority, the Central Florida Speech and Hearing board and is chair of KidsPACK, a local nonprofit that helps feed children in need.

If elected, LaLonde said the city's infrastructure will be a critical issue moving forward. He planned to make sure Lakeland's roadways, electrical resources and basic needs are taken care of.

One such need is Fire Station 8 in North Lakeland.. LaLonde said he supports and is in favor of a temporary station being created while the city secures a permanent site and works on constructing a new facility.

Municipal elections in November New faces win elections across Polk. 1 longtime incumbent loses. And there are runoffs

Simmons had been appointed to the Northwest District seat in October 2022. He was to fill the remaining term of former Commissioner Phillip Walker, who resigned to unsuccessfully campaign for Florida House District 50.

Dollison wins Winter Haven Commission seat

Clifton E. Dollison has been elected to serve on Winter Haven's commission, taking a seat left vacant by the passing of longtime Commissioner J.P. Powell.

Dollison received 1,931 votes, or 56%, versus challenger Johnathon D. Bush, who claimed 43.6%.

Clifford Dollison won a runoff election for Winter Haven's City Commission on Tuesday night with 56% of the vote.

Dollison, 66, has served as a pastor and teacher for the First Missionary Baptist Church of Winter Haven for the past 31 years. He previously told The Ledger he wanted to offer leadership that promotes the greater good for every citizen.

In his campaign, Dollison focused on the issues of addressing Winter Haven's needs during this time of rapid growth, including more infrastructure. He also wanted to address affordable housing.

Sara-Megan Walsh can be reached at swalsh@theledger.com or 863-802-7545. Follow on X @SaraWalshFl.

This article originally appeared on The Ledger: LaLonde wins Lakeland's Northwest seat, Dollison takes Winter Haven
A man who shot at police officers trying to enter his Virginia home before the house exploded is believed to be dead. Also in the news: President Joe Biden addressed appalling reports that Hamas used rape to terrorize women and girls during its attack on Israel on Oct. 7. More than 35 members of Congress have announced they are not seeking reelection in 2024.

 I'm Nicole Fallert, Daily Briefing author. Charged Lemonade at Panera Bread proved to be lethal yet again, a lawsuit alleges.

Here we go with Wednesday's news.

Suspect who shot at police from Virginia home that exploded is dead

Details have emerged about numerous grievances a man expressed against neighbors and others via social media and in lawsuits prior to his killing in a Virginia home explosion. James Yoo, 56, fired a flare-type gun from inside the duplex he owned more than 30 times early Monday evening in Arlington. Police were trying to enter the home with a search warrant when the suspect fired multiple gunshots. And then just before 8:30 p.m., the house exploded. The blast  which was felt for miles  tore apart the house, shooting flames and debris into the air. Questions about the incident continue to swirl on Wednesday and have left many in the area unsettled. Read more

Flames are seen at a distance where a home exploded, Monday night, Dec. 4, 2023, in Arlington, Virginia.

Israel sweeps into major city in south Gaza

Israeli troops entered Khan Younis, the Gaza Strip's second-largest city, on Tuesday in what the Israeli military described as some of the most intense fighting of the war.

The fighting further limits the area where Palestinians can seek safety and has largely halted the distribution of vital aid.

The U.N. said the fighting has made it impossible to distribute essentials like food, water and medicine to most people in southern Gaza. Meanwhile, the United States, Qatar and Egypt say they are working on a longer truce even though Israel called its negotiators home over the weekend.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his belief the Israeli military would have to maintain security control of the Gaza Strip for an indefinite time, long after the war ends. His statement seemed to defy U.S. opposition of Israeli "reoccupation'' of the territory.

Reports that women and young girls have been subjected to horrific sexual abuse by Hamas militants have surfaced. President Joe Biden said survivors and witnesses have shared horrific accounts of unimaginable cruelty over the past few weeks.

Want to read deep-dive weekday updates about the conflict? Sign up for USA TODAY's Israel-Hamas War newsletter.

Troops on the ground in the Gaza Strip on December 6, 2023.

More news to know now

What's the weather today? Check your local forecast here.

Is Washington broken?

Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., on Tuesday became the latest in a string of lawmakers to announce they will not run for reelection in 2024. Almost a dozen House GOP members alone announced in October and November their plans to retire from office at the end of their terms. McHenry said he's confident in the Houses future, but some congressional leaders who are on their way out do not share McHenrys vote of confidence, citing division and extreme politics as reasons for their departures. Read more

Democrats are offering Republicans a border security option. Will GOP lawmakers play ball?

Liz Cheney says she's ready to consider a third party.

Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., speaks to members of the media as he leaves the U.S. Capitol on Nov.14, 2023 in Washington, D.C.

Texas mother asks court to allow emergency abortion

Kate Cox is 20 weeks pregnant and her baby has Edwards' syndrome, a lethal genetic condition that causes severe developmental delay. Doctors advised the Dallas woman to get an abortion because there was "virtually no chance" her baby would survive, and continuing the pregnancy poses grave risks to her health and fertility, according to the court filing. But the state's restrictive anti-abortion laws stand in the way. Cox, her husband Justin and her OB-GYN are asking the court to temporarily block Texas' overlapping abortion bans and to authorize the termination of Cox's pregnancy. Read more

Where are the best U.S. hospitals to give birth?

Republican Tommy Tuberville's military holds in protest of abortion policy come to an end.

Keep scrolling

New NCAA subdivision would pay athletes via trust fund

NCAA president Charlie Baker sent a letter to Division I members proposing the creation of a new competitive subdivision whose schools would be required to provide significantly greater compensation for their athletes than current association rules allow. Under Bakers plan, within the framework of Title IX, the federal gender-equity law, schools in this new group would have to invest at least $30,000 per year into an enhanced educational trust fund for at least half of the institutions eligible student-athletes. For now, the particulars of how and when athletes would be able to access these payments would be left up to the schools. Read more

What does Baker's plan mean? The NCAA is opening the door for big-money schools to branch off from everyone else, and directly pay their athletes.

Biden promised to reform Title IX. Students are tired of waiting.

Photo of the day: 2023 Elle Women in Hollywood Celebration

At the Elle Women in Hollywood celebration Tuesday night, awardees America Ferrera, Jennifer Lopez, Jodie Foster, Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, Greta Lee, Fantasia Barrino Taylor, Lily Gladstone and Eva Longoria each took to the stage to reflect on their careers in the industry. The women will grace Elle's 2023 Women in Hollywood December/January issue.

Honorees Lily Gladstone (left), Jodie Foster, Greta Lee, America Ferrera, Jennifer Lopez, Danielle Brooks, Eva Longoria, Taraji P. Henson and Fantasia Barrino pose for a group photo at Elle's 2023 Women in Hollywood Celebration at Nya Studios on Dec. 5, 2023, in Los Angeles, California.

Nicole Fallert is a newsletter writer at USA TODAY, sign up for the email here. Want to send Nicole a note? Shoot her an email at NFallert@usatoday.com or follow along with her musings on Twitter. Support journalism like this  subscribe to USA TODAY here.

Associated Press contributed reporting.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Israel-Hamas war, Virginia explosion, McHenry retires, Texas abortion law, NCAA, Hollywood: Daily Briefing
ORGAN PIPE CACTUS NATIONAL MONUMENT  Enrique Gonzalez Sandoval tugged on his sweatshirt sleeve to reveal the number 208 etched onto his wrist in blue ink. That's his place in line.

Gonzalez Sandoval sat on his backpack that was nestled above silver thermal blankets and the rugged terrain of the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument Monday. Coarse white hair spilled out of his baseball cap and gave way to his face, which resembled worn leather.

Gonzalez Sandoval was only a mile from his home in Sonoyta, Sonora, the city across the border from Lukeville. Escalating cartel violence in the area and personal threats to his life pushed him to leave town and seek asylum near Lukeville.

Victor Navor Rojas, an asylum seeker from Culiacan, Sinaloa, sat across from Gonzalez Sandoval. Navor Rojas slipped a blue pen from his backpack, smudged off the number from Gonzalez Sandovals wrist and wrote 168 directly above.

Gonzalez Sandoval had moved up in line.

Cheers and applause erupt from the group when empty U.S. Customs and Border Protection transport vans arrive and handfuls of people are taken aboard. If new arrivals try to cut the line, they are met with shouts and waving fingers telling them to go to the end.

As he sat, Gonzalez Sandoval took a long breath from a short cigarette. It was the afternoon and the line showed no signs of moving further.

Migrants and asylum seekers wait to be picked up and processed by U.S. Border Patrol agents in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument along the U.S.-Mexico border about a mile west of Lukeville, Ariz., on Dec. 4, 2023. The Lukeville Port of Entry was closed indefinitely by officials Dec. 4.

The two companions sat in a semi-circle amid a crowd of nearly 1,000 other asylum seekers who were waiting to be processed and taken to a Border Patrol station. The group was mostly composed of single adult men as arriving women and children were taken directly to the front of the line and separated into another group.

The group was composed of people from around the globe. Asylum seekers from Senegal, Ecuador, Haiti, Mauritania, Afghanistan, India and Mexico gathered together in three separate lines.

Hundreds of asylum seekers have been crossing the border through the remote desert area and waiting for agents to process them. The number of asylum seekers in the area has strained Border Patrol operations and forced CBP to temporarily shutter the Lukeville Port of Entry so port officers can help process people.

Lukeville Port of Entry closing: Here's what happened on first day of the shutdown

Migrants and asylum seekers are guided into vans to be transported for processing by U.S. Border Patrol agents in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument along the U.S.-Mexico border about a mile west of Lukeville, Ariz., on Dec. 4, 2023. The Lukeville Port of Entry was closed indefinitely by officials Dec. 4.

As CBP struggles to transport and process the ever growing group, hundreds of people have been relegated to spend days unsheltered in the rugged and remote terrain. Despite humanitarian efforts, food and water is scarce.

The Border Patrol rarely allows humanitarian volunteers to hand out food to the crowd. Agents allow people to get water from the nearby Humane Borders water tanks after they're refilled.

A group of men from India had been waiting for six days while a man from Afghanistan had waited for four. There were several separate accounts of people needing medical attention and passing out among the group.

One asylum seeker in the group experienced seizures and was transported by EMS to a local hospital for treatment, according to CBP. There have not yet been any deaths in the area, according to CBP.

One comes fleeing their country for security from everything thats happening and to come and die over here, said Marco Mejia, an asylum seeker from Ecuador.

Imagine sleeping on the floor there with nothing, only with the clothes that you have.

Migrants and asylum seekers from Mauritania, Africa, wait to be picked up and processed by U.S. Border Patrol agents in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument along the U.S.-Mexico border about a mile west of Lukeville, Ariz., on Dec. 4, 2023. The Lukeville Port of Entry was closed indefinitely by officials Dec. 4.

People in Mexico have begun to come up to the wall and sell bread, soda and sandwiches to the group. The inflated prices, however, are far too expensive for many who have run out of money or been robbed along their journey to the U.S.-Mexico border.

They dont give us water. They dont give us food, Navor Rojas said.

While the days bring hunger and thirst, the nights are worse.

What to know: Lukeville border crossing closed on way to Rocky Point

An asylum seeker from Ecuador waits with others to be picked up and processed by U.S. Border Patrol agents in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument along the U.S.-Mexico border about a mile west of Lukeville, Ariz., on Dec. 4, 2023. The Lukeville Port of Entry was closed indefinitely by officials Dec. 4.

Asylum seekers build campfires to endure the frigid nighttime temperatures. Many have two to three layers of clothes on to keep warm.

Agents sometimes force them to put the fires out.

The situation is similar to one in Jacumba Hot Springs, California, where asylum seekers have had to live in open-air desert camps after crossing the border. Border Patrol agents watch over them but many are left to brace the elements unsheltered for days.

People near Lukeville have been able to cross the border wall because smugglers have been continuously cutting the steel wall bollards to file people through. Government welders go along the wall and seal the holes, but its not enough.

They close one and the mafia opens 10, Gonzalez Sandoval said.

The Border Patrols Tucson Sector recorded 17,500 migrant encounters in the last week of November, according to John Modlin, chief patrol agent of the U.S. Border Patrol's Tucson Sector.

Migrants and asylum seekers are guided into vans to be transported for processing by U.S. Border Patrol agents in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument along the U.S.-Mexico border about a mile west of Lukeville, Ariz., on Dec. 4, 2023. The Lukeville Port of Entry was closed indefinitely by officials Dec. 4.

The numbers equate to 2,500 average migrant encounters per day in the sector. The Tucson sector has remained the busiest corridor for migrant encounters for four months straight.

Agents have set up a staging tent north of where the group is in order to hold asylum seekers while theyre taken to Border Patrol stations in Ajo or Yuma.

The U.S. is continuing to see ebbs and flows of migrants arriving fueled by seasonal trends and the efforts of smugglers to use disinformation to prey on vulnerable migrants and encourage migration, according to a written statement from a CBP spokesperson.

As we respond with additional resources and apply consequences for unlawful entry, the migration trends shift as well.

Students walk across the street near the Lukeville Port of Entry after being dropped off by a school bus in Lukeville, Ariz., on Dec. 4, 2023. The Lukeville Port of Entry was closed indefinitely by officials Dec. 4.

The decision to close the crossing has garnered nearly unanimous backlash from advocates, residents and state, tribal and congressional leaders. The closed port will hinder peoples ability to study, shop, work, visit family and receive medical care on both sides of the border.

Rocky Point detour: How to get to Rocky Point while Lukeville border is closed: Driving to Puerto Penasco

Rep. Raul Grijalva, D-Ariz., sent a letter Tuesday to President Joe Biden and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas urging them to reopen the Lukeville crossing while asking the administration to deploy the Federal Emergency Management Agency to surge resources at the border.

We require an immediate surge in resources and staffing in southern Arizona but recent actions including closing the Lukeville Port of Entry (POE) are unnecessary and inclusively force migrants to even more dangerous areas as they attempt to exercise their international right to seek asylum, Grijalva wrote in the letter.

Grijalva described the situation as unsustainable and a dereliction of federal responsibility.

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs expressed worries Monday that CBP may decide to close more ports along the Arizona-Mexico border. Still, Hobbs said that there are no plans to deploy the National Guard to Lukeville.

As the afternoon stretched into night, people began gathering firewood from the brush nearby. Asylum seekers carried sticks, branches and sometimes the bones of a dead saguaro back toward the wall in preparation for the cold night.

Wind gusts kicked dirt and thermal blanket shards into the air, forming a small dust devil behind Gonzalez Sandoval and Navor Rojas. One asylum seeker quickly sat down on the remaining thermal blankets in his spot before the wind took them away.

A pair of transport vans pulled into the area in front of the group, ready to take more people.

A cheer soon rose from the group.

Have a news tip or story idea about the border and its communities? Contact the reporter at josecastaneda@arizonarepublic.com or connect with him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @joseicastaneda.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Lukeville border closure: Hundreds wait for days in Arizona desert
In Chicago and in Tallahatchie, Mississippi, a national monument honoring Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley is becoming reality, honoring the life and legacy of the 14-year-old Chicago youngster whose 1955 lynching and mutilation, and his mothers subsequent insistence on an open-casket funeral, helped spark the American Civil Rights Movement.

At a park in Memphis, so too is A Monument to Listening, an installation honoring the heroism of Tom Lee, a 39-year-old Black laborer who pulled 32 people from the Mississippi River after a steamboat capsized in 1925.

And in Washington, D.C., the Bureau of Indian Affairs will begin collecting oral histories from Indigenous survivors of the Federal Indian boarding school system as part of its Federal Indian Boarding School initiative to memorialize the era and the governments role in creating that system.

All three efforts are underway with the help of the Monuments Project, a $500 million funding initiative by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation that aims to change the narrative told by Americas national monuments.

A Monument to Listening by Theaster Gates at Tom Lee Park in Memphis, Tenn. Photographed September 2, 2023.

We think of this project as being a way that we can really start to see represented in public spaces a range of the amazing, varied stories that make up the United States, said foundation president Elizabeth Alexander.

'Monuments signal what's important'

Monuments and memorials, the project website notes, are how a country tells and teaches its story  a point echoed by history professor Gregory Downs of the University of California, Davis.

Monuments signal whats important and whats memorable, said Downs, who, while not affiliated with the project, was among several historians who urged President Barack Obama to designate several sites in Beaufort County, South Carolina, a national monument to the Reconstruction Era. Out of an unbelievably vast and complex past, they pluck out things about which to say, 'This is important and whats meaningful.'

According to the Monuments Project, the U.S. commemorative landscape disproportionately celebrates a limited few and overlooks the multitudes who have made and shaped our society, limiting our understanding of our collective history.

The project hopes to transform that landscape by supporting efforts to express, elevate and preserve the stories of those who have often been denied historical recognition.

Foundation doubles down on commitment to untold stories

The foundation launched the project in 2020 as a $250 million initiative and recently doubled its commitment to $500 million. Grants finance public initiatives highlighting largely untold stories, whether through permanent installations, cultural programming or efforts such as preservation of archival materials and historical sites.

In Los Angeles, Mellon funding will help the Los Angeles County Museum of Art develop augmented-reality monuments and murals celebrating regional diversity, using technology to reflect the perspectives of local communities. In Newark, New Jersey, it will aid the Newark Arts Councils commission and construction of a monument honoring the legacy of Harriet Tubman and the citys role in the Underground Railroad.

Alexander, the foundation president, said the project funds initiatives in communities that have conducted discussion and soul-searching about what and who should be held important.

At the National Cathedral in Washington, the cathedral community considered whether stained-glass windows depicting confederate leaders Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson, completed in the 1950s, had a place in a house of worship. Ultimately, it decided to replace those windows with others reflecting racial justice, an effort the Mellon Foundation is backing.

Thats an example of the hard community work that has to happen that enables us to say we are happy to provide resources, Alexander said.

Helping communities tell their own stories

The project has provided $170 million to 80 projects nationwide. Other projects funded by the foundation include:

In Juneau, Alaska, the Totem Pole Trail, a series of 10 totem poles created by Native artists in Southeast Alaska that will convey the history of the areas Indigenous peoples along the citys 2-mile public waterfront.

In Lawrence, Kansas, efforts by the University of Kansas to safely relocate the Sacred Red Rock, a 25-ton stone of spiritual and cultural significance to the Kanza people of the Kaw Nation, in addition to preparing the site for its placement and accompanying programming to celebrate its return.

In Los Angeles, a University of Southern California project to create the Irei Names Monument, a special book listing those of Japanese ancestry incarcerated by the U.S. government during World War II, as well as an interactive website and light installations at former national incarceration sites.

Mellons investment in promoting these commemorations comes as efforts to ban books and curricula focused on marginalized communities bubble throughout the countrys schools and library systems.

Shangukeidi Pole, created by carver Jackson Polys (Tlingit tribe) on Kooteeya Deiyi, the Totem Pole Trail, in Juneau, Alaska.

Our lack of full acknowledgment or accounting for the harms of our past merges into our present travails, wrote the authors of an audit of U.S. monuments produced by Philadelphia-based Monument Lab in partnership with the Mellon Foundation. Monuments serve as places to harness public memory and acknowledge collective forgetfulness as twin forces holding up this nation.

Women more represented as mermaids than as real people

The 2021 Monument Lab audit found that the vast majority of U.S. monuments venerate white males, and a third of them commemorate acts of war or conquest. Researchers scoured through nearly half a million records of historic properties, producing a final study set of more than 48,000 monuments and listing the 50 people honored most frequently.

The Top 50 list included 11 U.S. presidents and 12 U.S. generals; half the list represented people who had enslaved other people. Only five among the 50 were Black or Indigenous, and only three were women: Joan of Arc, Harriet Tubman and Sacagawea.

We found that what existed bore little reflection of what the country is made up of, Alexander said. Women were represented more often as mermaids and fictional figures than as people who were actors in our history and important contributors to our future.

The top six, in order, were Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, Christopher Columbus, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., St. Francis of Assisi and Robert E. Lee.

This is a view of the March on Washington crowd made from behind the statue of Abraham Lincoln in the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, August 28, 1963. In the distance is the Washington Monument and the Reflecting Pool.

Sierra Rooney, an assistant professor of art history at the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse who is not affiliated with the Monuments Project, said the origins of Western monuments cant be separated from the history of war and conquest.

The structures traditionally considered monuments  militarized, masculine figures sculpted in bronze or marble atop a pedestal  are historically rooted in authoritarian practices of Roman emperors, she said. Those rulers and, more recently, Napoleon, commissioned statues to celebrate their military achievements as part of their imperialist agendas.

That legacy is everywhere in the American landscape, Rooney said. These monuments dont typically grapple with the real-world effects of those conflicts, the devastating loss of military and civilian life, the environmental impact or the long aftermath and recovery from war.

Public reckoning over monuments

The nation's global reckoning over public monuments, heightened by the Black Lives Matter movement, the 2020 murder of George Floyd and the 2015 mass shooting at a church in Charleston, South Carolina, prompted communities to reconsider those that represented oppression, racism, colonialism and injustice. Some communities  as in Charleston or New Orleans  took action to remove them; other monuments were vandalized or torn down.

This was a major tipping point for the publics relationship to its monuments, Rooney said. It began a widespread rejection of what the hero on a pedestal represents. ... New monumentation is questioning not only who or what is being commemorated but how such commemorations happen.

Paint and protest graffiti covers the Jefferson Davis Memorial in Richmond, Va., June 7, 2020, following a week of unrest in the U.S. against police brutality and racism in policing. Jefferson Davis was the president of the Confederate States of America during the Civil War.

Much of that reckoning has been focused on the American South, where Downs, of UC-Davis, said many Civil War monuments were erected from the 1880s to the 1920s as the South recovered from the war and looked to reintegrate itself into the national narrative. Advanced by white Southern politicians, they doubled down on efforts to push segregation and disenfranchisement of Black voters, Downs said.

Its not just that they show white guys but that they show a specific version of history that was contested, including by other Southern white people, he said. They were produced out of that financial and political context.

Throughout the South, Confederate heroes became memorialized not just in statues but in street names, schools, parks and municipal buildings. Karen Cox, a professor of history at the University of North Carolina, Charlotte who also is not affiliated with the project, said that in some places, efforts to counter the narrative are complicated by local laws prohibiting removal, or even less-visible placement, of such monuments.

In such cases, she wonders, what does a counter-monument look like?

Ive spoken to these communities, and they run up against a brick wall, Cox said. It cant be a 4-by-6 panel, because the 30-foot monument still dominates. Communities have to be creative.

A 100-foot monument to former U.S. vice president and slavery advocate John C. Calhoun in Charleston, S.C., in June 2020. The statue towered over a downtown square until officials in Charleston voted unanimously to remove it after rising protests against racism and police brutality against African Americans.

Even when removal is possible, Downs said, correcting the narrative isnt just about taking the monuments away; its about figuring out how to effectively replace them.

Its not just taking down the past but figuring out how to do better history in the present.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: US monuments tell a narrow story. A $500M pledge could change that.
Note: This story has been updated to reflect the latest information from the Mississippi Forestry Commission as of 11:00 a.m. Dec. 7.

Months of scorching heat and bone-dry conditions resulted in burn bans for most counties in Mississippi, but cooler temperatures and much needed rainfall have allowed all but a few counties to cancel their burn bans.

According to a November press release from Gov. Tate Reeves office, a partial statewide burn ban was put in place due to extreme drought conditions. From Aug. 1 through Nov. 14, MFC wildland firefighters responded to 1,506 calls that burned approximately 21,919 acres. The Governor's office said if the ban was not in place, those numbers would have been higher.

The statewide ban expired Nov. 15 and additional rain since then has led to the cancellation of almost all county burn bans in the state.

Hinds, Rankin, Madison, Forrest and Lamar counties have all had their burn bans lifted.

Here are the counties that remain under burn bans.

With rain bringing relief from bone-dry conditions, most burn bans in Mississippi have been lifted and the few that remain are set to expire soon.

Counties remaining under burn bans

Attala County: Expires Dec. 18, midnight

Oktibbeha County: Expires Dec. 8, midnight

More: See which Mississippi towns made World Atlas list of 'cutest small towns' in the South

What is not allowed under a burn ban

Campfires

Bonfires

Fire pits

Fire rings

Burn barrels

Debris burning

Field burning

More: Amory man's traditional clothing line makes Christmas shopping easier

What is allowed under a burn ban

Propane / Gas grills

Propane / Gas heaters

Charcoal grills

The commission urges caution when using charcoal grills.

Mississippi burn ban updates can be found at www.mfc.ms.gov.

Do you have a story idea? Contact Brian Broom at 601-961-7225 or bbroom@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Most county burn bans lifted in Mississippi, others to expire soon
At a dinner recently, I chatted with a conservative retired businessman who spends his time between Michigan and Florida. I asked him who among the Republican candidates had piqued his interest.

He didnt hesitate: Nikki Haley. Shes the adult in the room, he said.

Other people are paying attention to Haley, too. A word that keeps coming up in regard to the former South Carolina governor and U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, in President Donald Trump's administration, is momentum.

Haley seems to have it.

Nikki Haley is certainly in a good position, said Alice Stewart, Republican consultant and veteran presidential communications adviser. You want to have the momentum and you want to peak at the right time, and right now she's got the momentum a month out from the Iowa caucus.

In the past week, Haley earned the coveted endorsement from the influential Koch network. Through Americans for Prosperity Action, its political powerhouse, she will get an infusion of money and help from activists on the ground in states throughout the country.

The group defended its decision in a memo, stating that Haley offers America the opportunity to turn the page on the current political era, to win the Republican primary and defeat Joe Biden next November.

The next day, JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon encouraged a group of wealthy business leaders to throw their support behind Haley in an effort to get a choice on the Republican side that might be better than Trump.

All this additional attention means more people will be listening closely to what she has to say at the fourth Republican primary debate on Wednesday.

"The more voters hear from Nikki Haley, the more they like her, said Ashley Davis, vice chair of Winning for Women Action Fund, a Republican super PAC that helps elect conservative women, in a statement. Her conservative record and positive vision are clearly resonating, and she's ridden that momentum into second place in critical early states.

From left, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy will take part in the fourth Republican primary debate on Dec. 6, 2023, in Tuscaloosa, Ala.

Is momentum enough going into 2024 presidential election?

If beating President Biden is actually what Republicans want to do, recent polls offer a strong rationale for why Haley may be the best option to do just that.

Every survey in recent months has the former ambassador leading Biden in hypothetical matchups by a wider margin than Trump  and her other leading GOP contender, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

A November poll from Marquette Law School, for example, showed Haley leading Biden by 10 points  55% to 45% among registered voters. Trump leads Biden by 4 points; DeSantis bests Biden by 2.

Earth to Democrats: Biden presidency is a dumpster fire. How many warning signs do you need?

Why? Haley is more attractive to independent voters and women who are looking for an alternative to Biden.

Heres the challenge, though. When Haley and DeSantis first got into the race, their main goal was to sell themselves as being the electable options  compared with Trump, who has a record of losing since 2018.

Biden is such a bad candidate, however, that even Trump with all his baggage looks like he could win a rematch with the president  albeit by a thinner margin than someone like Haley.

Better than Donald Trump? Prove it.

With that reality, the electability argument will not be enough for the other Republican hopefuls.

As much as I wish it werent our reality, Trump remains the dominant force in the Republican primary. In national polls, hes leading the pack by 48 points. Even in the early states like Iowa and New Hampshire, where DeSantis and Haley have spent lots of time, Trump leads by nearly 30 points.

Freedom wins: In debate against California governor, DeSantis offers best case for successful governing

While time is running out, there is still a chance to shift this dynamic. Plenty of voters are just now starting to pay attention to whos actually in the race.

Michael Meyers, president of TargetPoint Consulting, who has worked with candidates like George W. Bush and Mitt Romney, said some competition in the first few contests is the best shot to unseat Trump  and offers time for people to give candidates like DeSantis or Haley a second look.

A clean three-way field is the best bet to slow Trump down and then eventually beat him, Meyers told me. Everybody talks about how there's 70% of the party open to a Trump alternative. And I think that's true, but 25 of that 70 is still voting for him because they don't see any better alternative.

'Not a done deal'

Meyers said Haley has done a good job of consolidating support among GOP voters who dont like Trump, but that she hasn't made real in-roads into that 'leaning-Trump-but-wouldn't-mind-somebody-else' group: Thats the toughest thing they've got to do. Most campaigns came into this thinking, 'We just have to convince people that Trump isn't electable.' And it seems clear to me now that they have got to make a case that they are actually better than Trump.

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

Thats no easy task, given Trumps continued popularity with the GOP base. Yet, if Haley can outperform expectations in early states like Iowa and New Hampshire, that momentum could turn things around in subsequent primaries.

Then she could parlay that into success down the road, especially with her home state of South Carolina, said David Dulio, distinguished professor of political science at Michigans Oakland University.

Trump has a stranglehold on it now. But its not a done deal.

Ingrid Jacques is a columnist at USA TODAY. Contact her at ijacques@usatoday.com or on X, formerly Twitter: @Ingrid_Jacques

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Haley is the alternative to Trump (and Biden) America needs in 2024
North Koreans use computer terminals at the Sci-Tech Complex in Pyongyang (AP)

North Korean hackers may have stolen classified information on a new laser weapon system and key South Korean defence secrets after allegedly accessing a huge cache of data from defence and research firms in the South.

A North Korean state-sponsored hacking group known as Andariel allegedly stole data from 14 entities, including South Korean defence firms, research institutes, and pharmaceutical companies, police have said.

An investigation has been launched into the cyber-hacking incident with the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency and US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) working to determine the extent of the data leak by the group.

Andariel, sanctioned by the US Department of Treasury and designated as a North Korean state-sponsored malicious cyber group in 2019, established a proxy server from a district of the North Korean capital Pyongyang.

The group accessed the proxy servers 83 times between last December and March, the police investigating the case said.

The massive breach of data includes some 250 files or 1.2 terabytes of information and data stolen by hackers, according to the Yonhap news agency.

The group used the server to reach the websites of various firms and institutions, exploiting a South Korean hosting service that leases servers to undisclosed clients.

The group has extorted 470m won ($357,000; 284,000 worth of bitcoin via ransomware attacks on three South Korean and foreign firms, police said, adding that some of the ransom moneys have been sent back to Pyongyang.

Approximately 110m won was sent to a Chinese bank using the financial account of a female foreigner, according to police investigations involving both local and international virtual-asset exchanges.

The funds were subsequently withdrawn at a bank outlet situated in an area along the China-North Korea border. It is believed that the funds were eventually funneled to North Korea, said the police, adding that they are tracking the womans financial records to confirm if she played a part in money laundering.

Experts have raised concerns over the isolated nation resorting to cryptocurrency theft as a means to finance its nuclear arsenal amid extensive sanctions,

Cyber-attacks resulting in millions of dollars have been attributed to North Korean hackers, despite previous denials of involvement in cybercrime by Pyongyang.

Last year, North Korean hackers were alleged to have stolen 1.2bn won in virtual assets, according to South Koreas spy agency. It said that cyber-criminals working for the North Korean government have made 1.5tn won in the last three years.
Sarasota GOP Chairman Jack Brill is joining calls for Christian Ziegler to step down from leading the Republican Party of Florida, adding a voice from Ziegler's home county.

"Given the increasing amount of evidence coming out on the allegations against Christian Ziegler, the Republican Party of Sarasota County believes that what is best for Sarasota County and Florida in this critical election cycle is, is for Christian to step down," Brill said in a statement.

Ziegler has been chair the Florida GOP since February and also is a former Sarasota County Commissioner and the current GOP state committeeman for Sarasota County. The Sarasota Police Department is investigating sexual assault allegations against Ziegler, who says the encounter was consensual.

A number of Florida GOP leaders have come out in favor of Ziegler resigning from his state party chair job, including Gov. Ron DeSantis, Attorney General Ashley Moody and U.S. Sen. Rick Scott.

Florida GOP Vice Chairman Evan Power called a meeting of the party's executive board on Dec. 17 to discuss ousting Ziegler. Brill is a member of the executive board. He knows Ziegler well, having worked with him on local and state GOP organizing efforts for years.

Sarasota GOP Chair Jack Brill

Brill also is asking Ziegler to step down as GOP state committeeman for Sarasota County, and as a member of the Sarasota GOP's executive committee.

Police are still investigating the allegations against Ziegler and no criminal charges have been filed, but GOP officials have focused on information that has come about his sex life in calling for his resignation.

The alleged victim and Ziegler's wife, Sarasota County School Board member and Moms for Liberty co-founder Bridget Ziegler, told police they had a three-way sexual encounter more than a year ago that included the two women and Christian Ziegler.

Another three-way was planned on Oct 2, according to a police affidavit, but Bridget Ziegler couldn't attend.

"When the victim learned that Bridget Ziegler could not make it, she changed her mind and canceled with Christian," according to a police affidavit.

Christian Ziegler went to the alleged victim's apartment anyway, which is when the alleged sexual assault occurred.

"We want to see Christian given full due process of law in a timely fashion," Brill said. "But the moral failings outside of the criminal allegations require us to remind all of our community leaders that they are held to a higher standard."

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Sarasota GOP joins Ron DeSantis in pushing Ziegler to resign
A complex investigation has been launched after six people were found dead across two major cities in Texas.

Suspect Shane James, 34, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with capital murder charges in connection with the deaths of four people in Austin.

James is also accused of killing his parents Phyllis James, 55, and Shane Matthew James Sr, 56 at their home in San Antonio.

He was taken into custody after crashing his car while fleeing police following a shootout with an officer who suffered multiple gunshot wounds, Interim Austin Police Chief Robin Henderson told reporters.

Ms Henderson said the suspect was tied to a series of violent incidents that began on Tuesday morning and continued through the evening.

Police did not specify the cause of death for the four victims in Austin, but said three others were injured in shootings.

On Wednesday, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said that James was arrested in January 2022 and charged with three misdemeanours for family assault after allegedly attacking a sibling and both his parents.

The family reportedly told authorities that James did not belong in jail because he suffered from severe mental health issues.

Key points

Victims in Bexar County are suspects parents

Suspect identified after six people killed in multi-city Texas shooting spree

Shane James had history of mental health issues, police say

Victims in Bexar County are suspects parents

Wednesday 6 December 2023 23:09 , Andrea Blanco

In Bexar County, about 80 miles south from Austin, Sheriff Javier Salazar said his agency got a call from Austin police at about 7.45pm about a shooting.

He said the man they had in custody had links to a residence east of San Antonio, where two officers were sent.

I believe they saw water coming out of the residence, appearing as if something was leaking inside, Sheriff Salazar said.

Mr James parents Phyllis James, 55, and Shane Matthew James Sr, 56, were found dead in the house.

Mr Salazar said that the San Antonio crime scene was grisly but did not elaborate on how the victims were killed.

Nobody deserves to die the way we believe that they died, the sheriff said. This is a very quiet family. The gentleman that lives in the home, hes very involved in the community, in the neighbourhood watch.

Sheriff Salazar said its believed the deaths in the home happened sometime between 10pm on Monday, when a sibling of Mr James last spoke with their parents, and 9am on Tuesday, when a neighbour noticed James vehicle was not in the driveway.

Sheriff Salazar has asked neighbours to check their doorbell cameras to help authorities establish a more clear timeline.

(Bexar County Sheriffs Office)

Shane James had history of mental health issues, police say

05:10 , Andrea Blanco

On Wednesday, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said that James was arrested in January 2022 and charged with three misdemeanours for family assault after allegedly attacking a sibling and both his parents. The family reportedly told authorities that James did not belong in jail because he suffered from severe mental health issues.

I believe that the request was made by the family members that he had nowhere to go but home, Sheriff Salazar said. March 7, he was released from jail. On March 8, we know that he cut his ankle monitor.

In August, deputies responded to a mental health call at the James home.

The suspect was naked and having a mental health episode but was not arrested despite his three outstanding misdemeanours because the deputies were not allowed to force entry into his room. James barricaded inside his upstairs bedroom and used racial slurs as he confronted deputies trying to de-escalate the situation, Sheriff Salazar said.

The deputies left after James Sr promised to give them a call once his son left the room. Sheriff Salazar said that the father never did so.

The sheriff said his department is investigating how James, who was unmedicated at the time of the attack, gained access to a weapon.

Texas shooting spree: What we know so far

05:00 , Andrea Blanco

Three injured victims expected to make full recovery

04:00 , Andrea Blanco

The injured in the eight-hour attack on Tuesday included two police officers and a bicyclist, police said.

Authorities have said they are expected to recover.

Suspect is responsible for six deaths, police say

03:00 , Andrea Blanco

We strongly believe one suspect is responsible for all of the incidents, Robin Henderson, Austin interim police chief, said at a news conference Tuesday night.

She said that police did not determine that these incidents were connected until the last incident occurred Tuesday night.

Suspect identified after six people killed in multi-city Texas shooting spree

02:00 , Andrea Blanco

A suspect has been named in a series of apparent murders and shootings that left six people dead and three others injured across two major Texas cities.

Shane James, 34, is facing capital murder charges, police said.

He was linked to the deaths of four people on Tuesday in Austin, where two police officers and a cyclist were shot and injured. Authorities said during a press conference before Mr James was identified that the suspect had an outstanding assault and family violence warrant.

Read more:

Suspect arrested in Austin after six killed in multi-city Texas shooting spree

Gov Abbot message to Texans after shooting spree

01:00 , Andrea Blanco

Texans grieve for the loved ones of the six Texans who were murdered by a hardened criminal who must never see the light of day again. The murderer also shot two law enforcement officers in the line of duty. Texas is a law-and-order state, and violence will never be tolerated.

We thank all state and local law enforcement and first responders who apprehended this criminal and protected their communities.

The State of Texas will provide all resources necessary to impose the full weight of law on this criminal for his despicable crimes.

Cecilia and I ask our fellow Texans to join us in lifting up in prayer the families and loved ones of those who were killed, as well as the Texans who are recovering from injuries, including an Austin Police Officer and an Austin Independent School District police officer.

Man, woman killed in South Austin: APD

00:00 , Andrea Blanco

Statement from President Joe Biden on the Shootings in Texas and Nevada

Wednesday 6 December 2023 23:41 , Andrea Blanco

Yesterday, in Austin and San Antonio, at least six people were killed and several more injured by a gunmanleaving families devastated, and communities forever changed. And just hours ago, the University of Nevada at Las Vegas became the latest college campus to be terrorized by a horrific act of gun violence, and the community is still awaiting information on casualties.

Jill and I join citizens across our nation in praying for the families of our fallen, and for those who were injured during these latest acts of senseless violence. We are also grateful for the courageous work of law enforcementwho risked their own safety to bring an end to these deadly shooting sprees.

Federal law enforcement officials are on the ground working with State and local law enforcement in both states and I have directed that all necessary support be provided to assist in the investigations and support these communities.This year alone, our nation has experienced more than 600 mass shootings, and approximately 40,000 deaths due to gun violence.

This is not normal, and we can never let it become normal.For all the action we have taken since Ive been President, the epidemic of gun violence we face demands that we do even more.

But we cannot do more without Congress. Republican lawmakers must join with Democrats in Congress to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, pass a national red flag law, enact universal background checks, require the safe storage of guns, and advance other commonsense measures that will help stem the tide of gun violence. And together, we must do more to prevent more families, and more communities like Austin, San Antonio, and Las Vegas, from being ripped apart by gun violence.

A map of the attacks on Tuesday

Wednesday 6 December 2023 20:50 , Andrea Blanco

(ZeeMap/Comp)

Governor Abbot releases statement reacting to shooting near high school

Wednesday 6 December 2023 20:00 , Andrea Blanco

Our hearts are with the family and loved ones of the Austin ISD police officer who was shot near Northeast Early College High School today, Abbott said in a statement on Tuesday. Our ISD police officers play a critical role on keeping Texas students and school faculty safe. The State of Texas is offering all available resources to local law enforcement partners who are working to ensure this dangerous criminal is caught and brought to justice. Cecilia and I ask our fellow Texans to join us in praying for the officers swift recovery and the entire Northeast Early College High School community.

Shane James identified as suspect

Wednesday 6 December 2023 19:39 , Megan Sheets

The Austin Police Department has identified 34-year-old Shane James as the suspect in Tuesdays killing spree.

Police released Mr James name and booking photo on X on Wednesday afternoon.

APD Releases Booking Photo of Suspect Involved in Multiple Incidents on December 5, 2023



Suspect: Shane James, White male, 34 years of age pic.twitter.com/lBIxrpRtVH  Austin Police Department (@Austin_Police) December 6, 2023

How did the first two victims die?

Wednesday 6 December 2023 19:24 , Andrea Blanco

Robin Henderson, Austin interim police chief, declined to elaborate on how the fatal victims in the killing spree were murdered.

Authroities arrived at the location of the first criem scene in San Antonio after a bystander placed a 911 call.

I believe they saw water coming out of the residence, appearing as if something was leaking inside, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said, accoridng to Spectrum News. Two people were found dead in the house, but Salazar didnt say how they died.

Travis County District Attorneys Office condemns violence

Wednesday 6 December 2023 18:45 , Andrea Blanco

Our hearts break for the shooting victims, injured officers, their families, and our communities impacted by yesterdays senseless and tragic gun violence, District Attorney Jose Garzas office said in a statement to NBC.

Second double homicide happened in South Austin

Wednesday 6 December 2023 18:15 , Andrea Blanco

Authorities responded to a .home at the 7300 block of Shadywood Drive in South Austin at around noon on Tuesday.

They found two people killed at the home.

The suspect engaged in a shootout with police after a burglary was reported at a home in the 5300 block of Austral Loop. Two other victims were found dead inside.

Couple in their 50s first victims killed by suspect, police say

Wednesday 6 December 2023 17:44 , Andrea Blanco

The first two victims were found deceased in a small room in a residence in San Antonio.

Authorities have not released their identities, their cause of death, or what relationship, if any, they had with the suspect.

It is only known that they were a couple in their 50s.

I believe they saw water coming out of the residence, appearing as if something was leaking inside, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said. Two people were found dead in the house, but Salazar didnt say how they died.

IN PICTURES: Killing spree left six people dead in San Antonio and Austin

Wednesday 6 December 2023 16:43 , Andrea Blanco

Neighborhood residents speak to Austin Police officers in Austin, Texas late Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023. Texas authorities sa... (Sara Diggins/American-Statesman)

Austin Police officers close La Crosse Avenue near Mopac Expressway in Austin, Texas late Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023. Texas (Sara Diggins/American-Statesman)

Austin Interim Police Chief Robin Henderson speaks at a media briefing in Austin, Texas early Wednesday Dec. 6, 2023. Te... (Sara Diggins/American-Statesman)

Law enforcement did not know shootings in San Antonio in Austin were connected before arrest

Wednesday 6 December 2023 15:58 , Andrea Blanco

I want to emphasize that APD and other law enforcement did not determine that these incidents were connected until the last incident occurred tonight after the male suspect was taken into custody, ADP Interim CHief Henderson said during a press conference early on Wednesday.

How did the attacks unfold?

Wednesday 6 December 2023 15:56 , Andrea Blanco

ADP Interim CHief Henderson provided a timeline, saying an Austin independent school district police officer was shot and injured about 10:45 a.m. Tuesday.

Then about noon, a man and a woman were found dead in a home. Another shooting happened shortly before 5 p.m., when a male cyclist suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Police responding around 7 p.m. to a call of a burglary in progress at another home later found two people dead there.

Henderson didnt say how the four people died.

During the last call, an Austin police officer saw a man in the back yard. The man shot at the officer and the officer returned fire, Henderson said. The officer suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was taken to a hospital. The officer was listed in stable condition.

Police said the man, who was not hit, drove away and police pursued him. He crashed at about 7:15 p.m. at a highway intersection and was taken into custody. The man had a gun, Henderson said.

Officer wounded in Austin shooting is in stable condition

Wednesday 6 December 2023 15:37 , Andrea Blanco

The Austin Police Department Officer who was shot when the suspect in a killing spree that left six dead opened fired at a high school is expected to recover.

A cyclist who was also wounded in the eight-hour attack is also in stable condition, police said.

Footage of the confrontation between the suspect and APD officers is expected to be released within the next 10 days, KVUE reports.

One suspect responsible for all attacks, police say

Wednesday 6 December 2023 14:57 , Andrea Blanco

The dead were found in several homes.

The injured included two police officers and a bicyclist, police said.

Robin Henderson, Austin interim police chief, said his name would not be immeidately released at a news conference Tuesday night.

We strongly believe one suspect is responsible for all of the incidents, Henderson said of the Austin attacks.

She said that police did not determine that these incidents were connected until the last incident occurred Tuesday night.

Suspect arrested in Austin after six people killed in multi-city Texas shooting spree

Wednesday 6 December 2023 14:32 , Andrea Blanco

A suspect has been arrested after a series of shootings across Texas that have killed six and left three other injured.

The suspect, who is reportedly in his 30s, is facing capital murder charges, police said.

The Independents Kelly Rissman reports:

Suspect arrested in Austin after six killed in multi-city Texas shooting spree

How did the first two victims die?

Wednesday 6 December 2023 14:21 , Andrea Blanco

Robin Henderson, Austin interim police chief, declined to elaborate on how the fatal victims in the killing spree were murdered.

Authroities arrived at the location of the first criem scene in San Antonio after a bystander placed a 911 call.

I believe they saw water coming out of the residence, appearing as if something was leaking inside, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said, accoridng to Spectrum News. Two people were found dead in the house, but Salazar didnt say how they died.

What was the connection between the suspect and the victims?

Wednesday 6 December 2023 14:09 , Andrea Blanco

The man, who is in his 30s, was charged with capital murder, Robin Henderson, Austin interim police chief, said at a news conference Tuesday night. His name has not been released.

Police said the man, who was not hit, drove away and police pursued him.

He crashed at about 7.15pm at a highway intersection and was taken into custody. The man had a gun, Henderson said.

The relationship between the man and the victims, if any, wasnt immediately known, Henderson said.

Timeline of the alleged murders

Wednesday 6 December 2023 13:50 , Megan Sheets

Police offered a brief timeline of the alleged Tuesday murders at a press conference on Wednesday morning.

10.45am - Austin independent school district police officer shot and injured

~12pm - Man and woman were found dead in home

~5pm - Male cyclist shot and injured

~7pm - Two people found dead at home after burglary call. One officer responding to the call is subsequently injured in shootout with suspect

7.15pm - Suspect crashes car and is arrested

~7.45pm - San Antonio police approach home linked to suspect and find two people deceased inside

Six dead and three injured in Texas murder spree

Wednesday 6 December 2023 13:38 , Associated Press

A daylong series of attacks in Austin has left four people dead and at least three injured, and a man believed to be connected to them and the deaths of two people near San Antonio was taken into custody, Texas authorities said.

The dead were found in several homes. The injured included two police officers and a bicyclist, police said.

The man, who is in his 30s, was charged with capital murder, Robin Henderson, Austin interim police chief, said at a news conference Tuesday night. His name has not been released.

We strongly believe one suspect is responsible for all of the incidents," Henderson said of the Austin attacks. She said that police did not determine that these incidents were connected until the last incident occurred Tuesday night.

Read more:

Suspect in custody after 6 dead and 3 injured in series of attacks in Texas, authorities say
BEIJING, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday sent a message to Andry Nirina Rajoelina, congratulating him on re-election as president of Madagascar.

Noting that China enjoys a traditional friendship with Madagascar, Xi said that in recent years, under their joint guidance, bilateral relations have advanced fast, exchanges and cooperation in various fields have yielded fruitful results, and the two sides have firmly supported each other on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns.

Xi said he attaches great importance to the development of China-Madagascar relations, and stands ready to work with President Rajoelina to push for greater development of the China-Madagascar comprehensive cooperative partnership so as to better benefit the two peoples. 
Ukrainian and eastern European officials are applying a full court press on Washington this week, trying to unstick Senate talks stalled over GOP demands to link Ukraine aid with U.S. policy changes on the southern border.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dispatched his closest political allies  the president of the Ukrainian parliament, Ruslan Stefanchuk, and the head of his office, Andriy Yermak  to lobby lawmakers on following through on support for Ukraine.

We are facing a war of attrition again, Yermak said at the U.S. Institute of Peace, rallying support for Ukraines peace formula calling for Russia to withdraw from Ukrainian territory.

Its very difficult for our people, but Ukrainians are still very motivated.

The White House has sounded the alarm to Congress that it has run out of funds to supply Ukraine with weapons and is pushing lawmakers to approve $60 billion in aid that is expected to last throughout 2024.

But House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has conditioned moving more Ukraine aid on changes to immigration policy beyond what the White House had proposed in its broader package of $100 billion  to also include aid for Israel and Taiwan.

I explained that supplemental Ukraine funding is dependent upon enactment of transformative change to our nations border security laws, Johnson wrote in a letter sent to the White House on Tuesday.

Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and a stalwart supporter of Ukraine, told The Hill, We are going to keep pressing, when asked if Johnson would block aid if there was no resolution on immigration policy.

This is so important, we will reach agreement.

Politicians and officials from Poland and the Baltic States  Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia  met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill this week, underscoring the urgency of American support. And newly appointed U.K. Foreign Secretary David Cameron will arrive in Washington on Wednesday to meet with Biden administration officials and lawmakers over the importance of continued support for Ukraine and on the conflict in the Middle East.

Nearly two years into Russias full-scale invasion, fractures are emerging in Europes solidarity for Ukraine.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who is an outlier in the European Union for pushing back against stalwart support for Ukraine, is seeing his position gain more support after far-right politicians were elected in Slovakia and the Netherlands.

We are here  to tell our colleagues on the Hill how important today is, the decision you are thinking about, and hopefully soon youre making the decision, said Marko Mihkelson, an Estonian lawmaker and chair of the foreign affairs committee.

Last time the world order collapsed, my country, a Baltic nation, lost its independence for 50 years.

Mihkelson was in Washington a week after visiting Zelensky in Kyiv, and following a trip to Israel with his foreign affairs parliamentary colleagues from Latvia and Lithuania a week after the Hamas Oct. 7 attacks.

This is extremely important today to support Ukraine, to support Israel, to support Taiwan, support all democracies around the world to stand against autocracies who would like to run over our rules-based world order.

Rihards Kols, a Latvian parliamentarian and chair of the foreign affairs committee, pleaded with U.S. lawmakers at an event on Capitol Hill urging support for Ukraine and Israel.

Ive seen too much with my own eyes, both traveling to Ukraine, speaking to Ukrainians, traveling to Israel, speaking to citizens of Israel, he said of visiting the country in mid-October.

It sickens me to my stomach when theres the question, do we need to assist? Its not a question, we must. And that is something that I wish the Senate takes to their discussion and to the U.S. citizens as well.

Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, who attended the event with his European colleagues, told The Hill theres good faith on the part of Democrats and Republicans to come to an agreement on Ukraine aid.

Were going to continue to work with our Republican colleagues. They understand how important Ukraine aid is; I think we have the support here to get this done.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has set into motion an expected vote in the Senate on Wednesday to move forward on Bidens supplemental request.

Cardin, responding to a question on uncertainty over the potential Wednesday vote, said the Senate would continue to work on this until it gets done.

Were not planning for a defeat, were planning for a victory.

Mihkelson, speaking to The Hill after leaving Washington, said he was optimistic following his meetings with lawmakers  which included House Freedom Caucus members who are largely opposed to Ukraine aid  that Congress will deliver on assistance. But he raised concern about long-term commitments.

And then its a question of generally, strategy of the United States and how can we be sure that support will be prolonged, under the [potential] new administration as well, next year, he said.

But Republicans leaving a classified briefing Tuesday afternoon on Ukraine expressed extreme frustration over a breakdown in talks with Democrats over GOP demands for changes to U.S. policy on the southern border.

We want to help Ukraine and Israel, but we have to have Democrats recognize that the trade here is, the deal is, we stop the open border. They dont want to do that, Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) said, leaving the classified briefing early.

Theres no reason to sit and listen to people talking about how important it is to help Israel, Ukraine. We know that, I agree with that fully, he said. Noting Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) backs Ukraine funding, Romney added, But he has insisted that we also secure our border, and that was in the presidents request from the very beginning of the supplemental.

Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), leaving the briefing after Romney, was downbeat.

Republicans will have to live with the fact that our sons and daughters will be over, fighting when [Russian President] Vladimir Putin marches into a NATO country. They will rue the day that they decided to play politics with the future of Ukraine security, Murphy said.

A cynic would believe that Republicans have made this immigration demand because they want Ukraine funding to go down. We need to have a discussion with Republicans thats thoughtful and reasonable, and that hasnt happened yet.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
US officials expect the current phase of Israels ground invasion of Gaza targeting the southern end of the strip to last several weeks before Israel transitions, possibly by January, to a lower-intensity, hyper-localized strategy that narrowly targets specific Hamas militants and leaders, multiple senior administration officials tell CNN.

But as the war enters this new ground phase in the south, the White House is deeply concerned about how Israels operations will unfold over the next several weeks, a senior US administration official said. The US has warned Israel firmly in hard and direct conversations, they said, that the Israeli Defense Forces cannot replicate the kind of devastating tactics it used in the north and must do more to limit civilian casualties.

The US has conveyed to Israel that as global opinion has increasingly turned against its ground campaign, which has killed thousands of civilians, the amount of time Israel has to continue the operation in its current form and still maintain meaningful international support is quickly waning.

In perhaps the most direct public warning to date, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin admonished Israel that it can only win in urban warfare by protecting civilians. Speaking at the Reagan National Defense Forum over the weekend, Austin said US support for Israel is not negotiable, but he said Israel risks replacing a tactical victory with a strategic defeat if it did not do more to prevent civilian deaths.

Almost 16,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel began its campaign in October, following Hamas terror attack on Israel on October 7, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health. Israel believes it has killed several thousand Hamas militants, an Israeli official said.

Though senior Biden administration officials have publicly called on Israel to do more to minimize civilian deaths, they have been careful to avoid directly admonishing any of Israels tactics, believing officials believe it is more effective to quietly counsel Israel behind the scenes rather than loudly shame them.

The senior administration official told CNN that they did not feel comfortable using the word receptive to capture Israels response so far to the administrations military advice  contrary to some public statements from senior-most members of the administration.

Both in public and in private, Israeli officials maintain that part of their end goal is to weaken Hamas to such an extent that the group can never repeat the attack that it unleashed on Israel on October 7. That goal, one senior US official told CNN, is unlikely to be achieved by the end of the calendar year, and Israel is expected to continue pursuing that objective in the next phase of the conflict that US officials see as a longer-term campaign.

An Israeli official agreed that a transition is likely to come in the next few weeks, saying: We are in a high-intensity operation in the coming weeks, then probably moving to a low-intensity mode.

CNN asked the National Security Council and Israeli government for comment.

Israel cant maintain high-intensity operations indefinitely

Current US assessments also show that Israel simply cannot maintain its level of high-intensity operations indefinitely, especially the mobilized reservists, a source familiar with the intelligence said. Israel has also needed to respond to near-daily attacks by the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah on its northern border  another reason Israeli forces will likely need to transition to more targeted raids once they have cleared as many Hamas militants based in Gaza as they can, the source said.

US officials are hopeful that Israel will move to a more targeted strategy by January, which will resemble how the US transitioned away from high-intensity combat in Iraq and Afghanistan to a more narrow campaign against terrorist leaders, senior US officials told CNN. Israeli officials have indicated that that is their intention, one of the officials said.

Senior US officials have been careful not to publicly criticize Israel and are increasingly insisting that their strategy of counseling Israel to target Gaza more deliberately and surgically has delivered some results.

After Secretary of State Antony Blinken called on Israel to take concrete steps to protect civilians during a visit to the region last week, the IDF unveiled an online map of Gaza divided into tiny parcels as an apparent effort to allow Israel to warn residents of a specific area to evacuate because of military operations. But the map requires electricity and internet connectivity to access, both of which have been cut off in Gaza multiple times.

Pointing to that development, national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters on Monday that Israel has actually taken the quite unusual step for a modern military and identified precisely the area that they intend to have ground maneuvers, and they have asked the people in that area to move out.

Still, he declined several times to offer an assessment of whether Israels tactics have been more proportional since a truce with Hamas broke down last week and the fighting resumed, telling reporters on Monday that it is too soon to pass judgment.

Officials have also insisted that the Israel Defense Forces initial incursion into northern Gaza would have been far wider in scope had it not been for the US warnings. Israels original plan after the Hamas terror attack involved an immediate large-scale land, air and sea operation involving hundreds of thousands of Israeli troops and a desire to level the entirety of the Gaza Strip, people familiar with their planning said.

US officials have also argued in recent weeks that Israel has heeded the lessons senior American military advisers have shared with their Israeli counterparts about how to conduct urban warfare.

I do believe that they have listened, Vice President Kamala Harris told reporters on Sunday when asked whether Israel is listening to the US. Two days earlier, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby had told reporters: We believe that the approach that were taking thus far has produced effective results.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
In what is likely to further inflame tensions in the hemisphere, Venezuelan ruler Nicolas Maduro announced Tuesday the creation of a new military zone that would be in charge of defending an oil -and mineral-rich territory of neighboring Guyana that hes claiming belongs to his nation.

Maduro also designated a general, Alexis Rodriguez Cabello, as the sole authority of the Essequibo, a chunk of land in Guyana slightly smaller than the state of Florida. He also ordered that the more than 125,000 Guyanese living in the area, which is mostly jungle, be granted Venezuelan citizenship.

The announcement comes after Maduro claimed that 98% of Venezuelans overwhelmingly approved on Sunday his annexation of a new state that accounts for three quarters of Guyanas current land mass. While Guyana objected to the vote and called it illegal, international observers have questioned the election results. The governments report of voter participation did not square with the empty voting stations seen during the day and was more than twice as high as that of independent exit polls.

Maduro announced the creation of the Guyana Integral Defense Zone, or ZODI, to be called Zodi Guayana Esequiba, with headquarters in Tumeremo, a town in Venezuela near the Essequibo region. The Essequibo is at the center of a centuries-old border dispute between the two countries that is currently before the United Nations International Court of Justice.

It is unclear how large the new military force to be based in Tumeremo would be, but Maduro indicated its the first of several steps he plans to take to execute the mandate he says he was given on Sunday to invade Guyana.

On Tuesday, Brazils military reinforced its northern border due to rising tensions between Venezuela and Guyana. Brazil has borders with both countries.

U.S. officials, who have been keeping a close eye on the simmering tensions over Caracas claim to the Essequibo region, have grown increasingly concerned that Maduro could be preparing for the use of military force on Guyanase territory.

A White House official on Tuesday declined to comment, referring McClatchy to the State Department, which did not immediately respond.

In an interview with the Miami Herald, Guyana President Irfaan Ali called the move by Maduro reckless and said his country plans to alert both regional and world leaders of Maduros attempt to disrupt the peace in the hemisphere.

It is unfortunate that President Maduro would choose the road of defying an international court order. This speaks volumes about the way in which President Maduro prefers to operate and also points to the fact that hes unconcerned about the peace and security of this region, Ali said.

The order of the [U.N. court] made it very clear that Venezuela cannot act or take any action that would disrupt the status quo and the status quo is that Guyana exercises governance and control of Essequibo, he said. He added that he is seeking the support of the United Nations Security Council, the United States, the Caribbean Community, the Organization of American States and other countries to ensure Guyanas territory is not violated.

We once again call on Venezuela to retract from this reckless, adventurous move and to allow international law and the ruling of the [U.N. court] to guide our action, Ali added.

Ahead of Sundays vote in Venezuela, the U.N. international court warned Maduro that pending a final decision in the border case, Venezuela shall refrain from taking any action which would modify the situation that currently prevails in the territory in dispute. The judges unanimously acknowledged that Guyana currently administers and exercises control over that area.

Maduro has dismissed the jurisdiction of the U.N court He announced the created of the defense zone in an event attended by mayors, governors , ministers and diplomats.

Venezuelas military is organized in seven different zones covering all states and maritime territories. The new defense zone in theory would be in charge of defending the 61,600 square miles of Guyana, about three quarters of the country, that Caracas considers part of Venezuelan territory. The area has been under the control of Guyana since international arbitrators established the current borders in 1899.

As part of Tuesdays announcements, Maduro also appointed his vice president, Delcy Rodriguez, to head a National High Commission for the defense of Guayana Esequiba and issued orders for the regimes National Assembly to write new laws for the creation of the new state based on Sundays referendum.

The Venezuelan ruler also ordered the publication of a new map of Venezuela to include the new state and ordered the creation of new state-run oil and mining companies to be called PDVSA Essequibo and CVG Essequibo, respectively, for the exploration of oil and minerals inside the region.

Maduro also ordered regime officials to begin a process of giving Venezuelan nationality to the estimated 125,000 people that currently live in Essequibo.

I announce the immediate activation of a human and social care plan for the entire population of Guayana Esequiba, the carrying out of a census, the beginning of the process to deliver identity cards, he said.

The border dispute was revived after Guyana began benefiting from the discovery of vast deposits of oil in the region in 2015.

The 15-member Caribbean Community, of which is Guyana is a member, has said that Venezuela cannot by a referendum, or otherwise, violate international law and disregard the order of the worlds highest Court.

On Monday, the Biden administration said the countries need to find a peaceful resolution the the border dispute.

The 1899 award determining the land boundary between Venezuela and Guyana should be respected unless or until the parties come to a new agreement or a competent legal body decides otherwise. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters. So we would urge Venezuela and Guyana to continue to seek a peaceful resolution of their dispute. This is not something that will be settled by a referendum.

Miami Herald data reporter Ana Claudia Chacin contributed to this story.
Lebowski Bar in Reykjavik, Iceland, is themed around the cult-classic film "The Big Lebowski."

It's full of movie quotes and references including bowling decor and napkins featuring Jeff Bridges.

Lebowski Bar is an entertaining attraction even for those who haven't seen the movie.

I've never seen the 1998 cult-classic comedy "The Big Lebowski," but even I know some of its famous lines like, "I don't roll on Shabbos."

While visiting Iceland in June, I stopped by Lebowski Bar, a themed bar and restaurant in downtown Reykjavik inspired by the movie. The touristy spot is one of several Lebowski-themed bars around the world  a testament to the film's devoted following.

Iceland's Lebowski Bar opens daily at 11 a.m., offers happy hour from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., and features a DJ from 9 p.m. until closing.

Even without seeing the film, I found it to be an entertaining attraction that made me chuckle.

Take a look inside Lebowski Bar.

Lebowski Bar is located on Laugavegur, the main shopping street in downtown Reykjavik.

The entrance to Lebowski Bar in Iceland. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Founded in 2012, the bar pays tribute to the Coen brothers' 1998 cult classic comedy, "The Big Lebowski."

A neon sign for Lebowski Bar. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

The front section of the bar looked like an American-style diner with booths and bowling accessories.

Booths in Lebowski Bar in Iceland. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Further inside, another dining area was designed to look like the porch of a house.

Tables at Lebowski Bar in Iceland. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

A projector played the 1987 Star Wars parody film "Spaceballs." I'm sure they screen "The Big Lebowski" as well.

A movie playing at Lebowski Bar in Iceland. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Lebowski Bar serves burgers, milkshakes, and 23 variations of a White Russian, film protagonist Jeffrey "The Dude" Lebowski's drink of choice.

A counter at Lebowski Bar in Iceland. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

The bar also sells themed merchandise like T-shirts, sunglasses, and mugs.

Merchandise for sale at Lebowski Bar in Iceland. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

I spotted nods to the movie characters' affinity for bowling throughout the space.

A jukebox at Lebowski Bar in Iceland. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Film quotes and references were everywhere, including signs indicating that a table was reserved.

Inside Lebowski Bar in Iceland. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

A sketch of The Dude, played by Jeff Bridges, adorned the napkins.

Napkins at Lebowski Bar in Iceland. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

The sign indicating the bathrooms downstairs also featured an image of Bridges in character.

A sign for the bathroom at Lebowski Bar in Iceland. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

I noticed one last movie reference on my way out that made me laugh  a rug featuring another famous quote I recognized from the film.

A rug outside Lebowski Bar in Iceland. Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Read the original article on Business Insider
A northern spotted owl flies after an elusive mouse jumping off the end of a stick in the Deschutes National Forest near Camp Sherman, Ore. (Don Ryan / The Associated Press, 2003)
GUANGZHOU, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- At the 2023 Imperial Springs International Forum held in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province, participants from around the world voiced their support for true multilateralism and called for more cooperation to address global challenges.

With the theme of "Multilateralism: More Exchanges, Greater Inclusiveness and Cooperation," the event that concluded Tuesday attracted more than 130 participants from over 40 countries to discuss topics ranging from world economic recovery to global governance reforms.

ADVOCATE MULTILATERALISM

The participants believe that under the current circumstances, the world needs more than ever to adhere to the core values and basic principles of multilateralism and follow the vision of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits in global governance.

Multilateralism not only conforms to the trend of world, but also represents an effective way to maintain peace and promote development, they said.

The theme of the forum shows the importance of multilateralism, as "unilateralism and protectionism have very negatively impacted peace, stability, and sustainable development," said Vladimir Norov, former secretary-general of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and former foreign minister of Uzbekistan.

His remarks were echoed by Danilo Turk, former president of Slovenia and president of World Leadership Alliance-Club de Madrid.

Noting that the challenges the world faces today are complex and unprecedented, the former president said "our goal is one in which multipolarity is harmonized through the strength of multilateral institutions."

In the view of Vaira Vike-Freiberga, former president of Latvia, China has been a strong advocate and practitioner of multilateralism.

Recalling her personal experience as her nation's president, Vike-Freiberga, who is also co-chair of Nizami Ganjavi International Center, said one of the examples of China's practice of multilateralism is that it has treated large and small countries with equal respect.

Chau Chak Wing, president of the Australia-China Friendship and Exchange Association, said "the international situation is complex, and humankind is facing severe challenges never seen before."

The theme of this year's forum "sends a clear signal to the international community: it is necessary to overcome isolation through exchanges, resolve antagonism by promoting inclusiveness, and achieve development through cooperation," he said.

ENHANCE COOPERATION

At present, the world economy is struggling to recover, anti-globalization sentiment is on the rise with surging unilateralism and protectionism. To address these problems, countries around the world should show solidarity and enhance cooperation, said the event participants.

Given the problems facing the world, the theme of this year's Imperial Springs International Forum is "well-chosen," said former Prime Minister of Belgium Yves Leterme.

Those problems "can only be addressed by more cooperation," he added.

Former President of Nigeria Olusegun Obasanjo agreed with Leterme.

Noting every country has its comparative advantage, Obasanjo said he believes that if countries work together, they can have not only economic recovery, but economic growth, which "helps everybody."

He called for global cooperation where "no country is left behind."

Taking the common challenge of climate change as an example, Zou Ciyong, deputy to the director general of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, said "it is not only about one country ... but an issue concerning the future of humanity as a whole."

"We have to work together," said Zou, also the managing director of the Directorate of Technical Cooperation and Sustainable Industrial Development, stressing the need to address the issue through global cooperation.

"I think if one looks at what has happened in the world, gaps have widened," said Sean Cleary, executive vice-chair of the Future World Foundation. "Therefore, part of the challenge that we face is to find solutions to address those problems, among others."

"Now, if you look at what the Global Development Initiative addresses in that regard, it makes very tangible suggestions as to how those problems should be addressed," said Cleary.

What is now necessary is that other countries "need to get their heads around these proposals and determine what we can agree on and how we can improve the system going forward," he added.

PROMOTE EXCHANGES

Translating multilateralism into actions requires more exchanges among peoples and mutual learning among countries and civilizations.

"The foundation of friendly cooperation among all countries in the world lies in the people. We should continue to give full play to the unique and important role of people-to-people diplomacy in communicating with the world, deepening understanding, enhancing mutual trust, forging consensus, and promoting cooperation," the participants said in a statement released after the forum.

"I can see the forum is becoming one of the places for international dialogue and exchange ... Imperial Springs will take its place as an important venue," said Vike-Freiberga.

The former president of Latvia used a metaphor to describe the great importance and wide influence of people-to-people exchanges. "Imagine there is a center, and you have a lamp at the center, and its light is spreading out," she said.

Referring to the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by China, Cleary said "there are different civilizations with different cultural histories, so we have to find a way of respecting all of the cultural and civilizational diversity that make up the world."

Inclusiveness is very important, said Zheng Yongnian, board director of the Guangzhou Institute of the Greater Bay Area. "We should emphasize what China is doing is inclusive multilateralism." 
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TOKYO, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Japanese public prosecutors have begun questioning lawmakers of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)'s largest faction on a voluntary basis over a political fund scandal, local media reported on Wednesday.

Seiwaken, or the Seiwa policy study group, the largest LDP faction previously led by the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, was suspected to have pooled secret funds amounting to around 100 million yen (about 679,000 U.S. dollars) over at least the past five years through 2022, national news agency Kyodo reported.

The slush funds were suspected to have been created by returning part of sales of political fundraising party tickets to its lawmakers as kickbacks.

Prosecutors have questioned on a voluntary basis secretaries of lawmakers who were alleged to have received kickbacks from Seiwaken, Kyodo reported, citing investigative sources.

At least 10 lawmakers received kickbacks, with some given 10 million yen or more by the faction comprising around 100 members, said the report.

The special squad of the Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office was investigating flows of funds and the details of how political funds reports were created at the faction, eyeing the possibility of establishing a case on suspicion of violating the political funds control law, Jiji Press reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.

Japan's political funds control law requires political organizations to list in their fund reports the names of individuals or organizations that paid over 200,000 yen at a fundraising party, along with the amounts paid.

According to multiple local media outlets, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday requested all LDP factions to refrain from holding fundraising parties for the time being, amid growing criticism and allegations that five LDP factions including his own underreported their revenue from fundraising parties.

"New revelations have emerged to expand the allegations surrounding the political fundraising parties of various LDP factions, taking the scandal into a new phase," Japanese newspaper Asahi Shimbun said in an editorial published on Wednesday.

"Fundraising parties have long been criticized for a lack of transparency and described as a hotbed for the creation of slush funds," noted the editorial, urging the LDP to "dig deep to get to the bottom of slush fund allegations." (1 Japanese yen equals 0.0068 U.S. dollars) 
Polonia. Scandalul escaladeaza. Am decis sa-i gratiez

Polonia, criza fara precedent . Scandalul dintre presedinte si premier, un nou episod. Presedintele polonez Andrzej Duda a anuntat joi ca va lansa o procedura de gratiere a celor doi deputati membri ai partidului din care provine, formatiunea Lege si Justitie (PiS), care au fost [citeste mai departe]
Politistii din Brasov cauta o femeie de 76 de ani

Politistii din cadrul Inspectoratului de Politie Judetean Brasov efectueaza verificari pentru identificarea unei persoane disparute, dupa ce au fost sesizati cu privire la faptul ca, POPA LUCIA, in varsta de 76 de ani, a plecat voluntar de la domiciliul, din municipiul Brasov, jud. Brasov, fara [citeste mai departe]
We're growing and so hiring an assistant: the successful candidate will work with and support the Managing Director of XpatLoop.com - the main responsibilities and requirements of this key member of the team are summarised in this article, along with next steps.

Main Responsibilities

* Organising office diary and meetings.

* Preparation of proposals and presentations.

* Attending meetings to take notes and prepare contact reports.

* Dealing with incoming email and post, often corresponding on behalf of the managing director.

* Liaising with clients, partners, suppliers, and the team.

* Uploading daily news and information on the portal.

* Conducting required research and summarising findings.

* Maintaining office systems, including data management and filing.

* Screening inquiries and requests, handling them when appropriate.

* Supporting company events, attending some community functions.

* Running errands, such as payment of office bills and arranging post.



Essential Qualifications & Experience

* Fluent in English and Hungarian languages.

* Education to at least secondary school level.

* Excellent IT skills, especially Microsoft products.

* Ability to prioritise work-load and cope well with pressure.

* Related experience is useful but not a key job requirement.



Note:

As this is initially an assistant position, anyone with extensive experience and qualifications is therefore deemed 'over qualified'.



Required Competencies

* Professional appearance, good communication skills, cooperative, enthusiastic and polite.

* Solution focused personality, able to use own initiative to achieve company goals correctly.

* Mature and responsible view of work and life in general.



Type of position

Part-Time, with the opportunity of a Full-Time position.



Working hours per week

20 hours.



Work location

In Budapest's 2nd district / Home Office.



Remuneration

Please indicate your hourly / monthly net income expectation.

Note: vague statements (like 'negotiable' or 'depending on responsibilities' etc.) will not be taken into consideration.



Application Deadline

Currently open.



Additional information

You must have any required work authorisation for Hungary in order to apply, as we do not sponsor work permits.



How To Apply

By email - click here to apply

1. In the body of your email please write a brief letter of motivation about why you are applying for this position, and attach your CV including a recent photo.

2. Remember to include your financial expectations, and mobile phone number, if any of the requested information is not provided then the application cannot be considered.



Next Steps

Candidates selected for interview will be contacted asap after their application is received.

We are only able to reply to candidates selected for interview, CV's and all details of candidates not selected will be deleted.

Thank you for your understanding.
Hungarys National Food Chain Safety Authority (Nebih) has ordered the monitoring of cattle imported to Hungary after reports from the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium of cases of bluetongue disease.

Nebih noted on its website that the disease had caused an epidemic in the Netherlands in September, then it spread across the German and Belgian borders in October.



Controls focused on 59 shipments of 3,800 cattle arriving in Hungary since July, the authority said, adding that there were only 1,150 animals in the country at the time of the restrictions, the rest having been exported on to third countries.



So far, 15 samples of a total 1,700 have been returned positive, the authority said, adding that though these cattle pose no danger of infection  prevention such as eliminating insects that spread the virus as well as strict observation of quarantine rules are essential in preserving Hungarys bluetongue-free status.



The authority also said no cattle, sheep, or goat imports had arrived in Hungary since the introduction of restrictions, adding that mosquitoes that spread the disease were no longer active in the cold weather.



But the authority has asked farmers to exercise extreme caution when buying stock for the countries affected.
The Budapest police (BRFK) seized over 154 kilograms of cocaine, with a street value of more than 23 billion forints (EUR 60.6m), at a depot in a southern suburb of Budapest.

According to the police website, the highly pure cocaine was found in a container at the harbour on Csepel island.



The amount at a concentration sold on the street would be sufficient for a dose for every other resident of Budapest the website said.



BRFKs inspectors have launched an investigation and contacted several foreign agencies including the US Drug Enforcement Administration, the website said.



In comparison to the massive haul, since the start of the year, police had seized 2.8kg of cocaine, 4.6kg of amphetamines and 76.2kg of marijuana.
China's special envoy for climate change Xie Zhenhua addresses an energy-themed gathering in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, Dec. 5, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Dongzhen)

Addressing an energy-themed gathering at the UN climate change conference, China's special envoy for climate change expressed the hope that wisdom and strength could be pooled to work out a solution to move beyond the stalemates toward energy transition goals.

DUBAI, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- More than 70 delegates to the UN climate change conference convened on Tuesday in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, to seek insights and solutions for an inclusive, just and resilient global energy transition.

The energy-themed gathering came as the climate talks at COP28, or the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), reached a stalemate over issues including energy transition.

The attendees, including the top Chinese climate envoy, senior UN officials, and energy officials of Egypt and Malawi, met on the sidelines of the ongoing UN climate summit and jointly called for further gathering wisdom and strength to advance the global energy transition.

Xin Baoan, chief of the Global Energy Interconnection Development and Cooperation Organization (GEIDCO) and executive chairman of State Grid Corporation of China, speaks at an energy-themed gathering in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, Dec. 5, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Dongzhen)

"We stand at a critical juncture in our shared journey towards a just and inclusive energy transition. It's evident that this formidable task cannot be achieved by any single organization or nation alone," said Rola Dashti, the executive secretary of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UNESCWA).

She stressed that, with united endeavors, the energy sector can be "transitioned from a challenge to a solution to meet climate goals."

Addressing the gathering, China's special envoy for climate change Xie Zhenhua expressed the hope that wisdom and strength could be pooled to work out a solution to move beyond the stalemates toward energy transition goals. He added it should be a pragmatic and exemplary solution that can be shared and replicated.

Rola Dashti, the executive secretary of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UNESCWA), speaks at an energy-themed gathering in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, Dec. 5, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Dongzhen)

The event was jointly held by the Global Energy Interconnection Development and Cooperation Organization (GEIDCO), the UNFCCC secretariat, UNESCWA, several other UN agencies, China's Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Egypt's Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy, and World Meteorological Organization, etc.

At the event, a research report on solutions and practices for inclusive, just and resilient energy transition was issued by GEIDCO. Its chief Xin Baoan, also executive chairman of State Grid Corporation of China, said energy development is facing many challenges globally, such as huge pressure for energy supply and security, tough tasks in transforming traditional industries, and unbalanced regional development.

Visitors pose for photos at the Green Zone of the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, Dec. 3, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Dongzhen)

He highlighted a systematic approach and a focus on correlations between security and transition, development and emission reduction, and stocks and increments to advance high-quality energy transition.

The Beijing-based GEIDCO, established in 2016, is a China-proposed global energy body. It now has 1,305 members from 142 countries. Setting up seven regional offices globally, the organization has been promoting sustainable energy development worldwide with a focus on energy interconnection across regions. 
An 85-year-old man who had been incarcerated at the Nebraska State Penitentiary for nearly 50 years died Monday.

Leonard Svitak, 85, had been in the state's custody since Sept. 20, 1974, when he was sentenced to a term of 10 years to life for second-degree murder in Lancaster County.

Svitak was convicted of shooting and killing his ex-wife, 30-year-old Mary Svitak, at her north Lincoln home in March 1974, according to newspaper archives.

The two had been separated for three months when Svitak shot her with a .22 caliber rifle inside her mobile home following a dispute, according to the archives.

She was pronounced dead upon arrival at St. Elizabeth hospital and Svitak was arrested at the scene.

Mary Svitak was an employee of the State Welfare Department at the time of her death. Leonard Svitak was a welder.

Though his cause of death hasn't been determined, Svitak was being treated for a medical condition, the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said in a news release announcing his death.

A grand jury will be convened to conduct an investigation into his death, as required by state law whenever an inmate dies in state custody.

The inmates on Nebraskas death row and their crimes Jorge Galindo Erick F. Vela Jeffrey Hessler John L. Lotter Roy L. Ellis Marco E. Torres Jr. Anthony Garcia Nikko Jenkins Patrick Schroeder Aubrey Trail
Video|Consul-General of the Kingdom of Thailand in Guangzhou: Guangdong province serves as an excellent example of the success of China's great development achievements

   2023-12-06 15:54

From the Belt and Road Initiative to the building of a more stable, prosperous and sustainable China-Thailand community with a shared future, China-Thailand friendship embarks on new chapter.

Last year, Mrs. Jiraporn Sudanich, Consul-General of the Kingdom of Thailand in Guangzhou, witnessed the landmark cooperation between the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and Eastern Economic Corridor of Thailand. In her view, Guangdong province serves as an excellent example of the success of China's great development achievements. She expects Thailand, China to expand practical cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, forestry, infrastructure, information and and telecommunications, and also hopes to promote people-to-people contact through exchanges and co-operation in tourism, media and other fields.

Yangcheng Evening News: ASEAN is China's largest trading partner. In recent years, an increasing number of Chinese companies have also invested in Thailand. How do you evaluate the economic interactions between China and Thailand? What are your expectations for further economic cooperation between China and Thailand in the future? Are there any notable projects that you can reveal?

Sudanich: Both the visits of President Xi Jinping to Thailand in November 2022 and the visit of Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to Beijing in October 2023 have paved the way for Thailand - China Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership.

The high-level meetings between Thailand and China that have taken place regularly provide strong foundation for closer and comprehensive ties between our two countries.

From the latest meetings of our leaders, it has been outlined that the cooperation between China and Thailand will be focused on building a Thailand - China community with a shared future for enhanced stability, prosperity, and sustainability.

Under this vision, Thailand and China will continue to expand our cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, forestry, infrastructure, information and telecommunications and other areas. We also seek China's cooperation in enhancing the competitiveness of Thai products in China through various platforms.

Apart from the high-level exchanges, during and after the pandemic, Thailand has seen an increasing number of experienced Chinese investors as well as rising young entrepreneurs choosing to invest in our country.

Thailand welcomes investment to Thailand and stands ready to strengthen cooperation with China on areas of mutual interests, including electric vehicles, clean energy, digital economy, artificial intelligence, and aerospace science and technology.

Yangcheng Evening News: Both the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Eastern Economic Corridor of Thailand are significant national development strategies for China and Thailand. Both regions are important nodes in the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative. What is the current status of Guangdong's involvement in the construction of the Eastern Economic Corridor in Thailand? In the future, in which areas do you hope investors from the Greater Bay Area will focus on in Thailand?

Sudanich: The Royal Thai Consulate-General is actively taking part in promoting the cooperation between the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).

Thailand is thrilled to have witnessed a true testament of the GBA-EEC cooperation last year as BYD Auto from Shenzhen, an important driver of the GBA, is now in the EEC, to press forward the EV production supply chain at the regional and global levels.

The GBA-EEC cooperation has further been reinforced by the visit of Governor Wang Weizhong of Guangdong Province to the EEC during his visit as an official guest of the Royal Thai Government in June 2023.

Thailand continues to welcome more foreign investment and business partners into the EEC. We are focusing on strategic sectors with high potential for growth, including digital technology, health and wellbeing, smart logistics, decarbonisation such as EV and renewable energy.

Similar to Guangdong and China, Thailands development momentum continues to present new business opportunities for investors around the world. One of the upcoming projects is to improve connectivity at the regional level, the Royal Thai government plans to significantly upgrade Thailands infrastructure with the implementation of the land bridge project.

The land bridge project will connect Ranong on the Andaman Sea to Chumpon on the Gulf of Thailand. This mega project underone port, two sides concept will reduce the commute time going through the Strait of Malacca and enhance Thailands logistic competitiveness. We stand ready to welcome potential investors to participate in this project for our mutual interests.

Yangcheng Evening News: Thailand has always been a favored destination for Chinese travelers. How has the overall situation been for Chinese tourists visiting Thailand this year, and how is the recovery of Thailand's tourism business progressing? In the future, how do you hope both sides can strengthen cooperation in the tourism?

Sudanich: Thailand is happy to have been a popular destination for Chinese travelers. According to the statistics on 12 November this year, Thailand has received more than 23-million foreign tourists. Among these, Chinese tourists account for about 12 percent - about 2.9 million.

During and following the opening up from the pandemic, relevant parties in Thailand have been joining hand to restore and enhance tourism supplies in the country.

Thailand hopes to further improve flight availability between Thailand and China, with the cooperation from the Chinese side. We hope to bring the flights number of Thai airlines on par to the pre-pandemic level to fully facilitate the exchanges between our peoples in tourism and businesses alike.

Given the return of tourism exchanges, we hope that the understanding between our people will be strengthened. Deeper understanding and strong bond between peoples will provide great immunity against misunderstanding, fake news, and unverifiable pieces of information that easily spread online.

Media also plays an important and responsible role in promoting correct understanding between the people. The collaboration from this sector will certainly be beneficial for the overall Thai-China relations too.

Other than that, various extra-ordinary Thai experience is awaiting friends from China and around the world  from beautiful local culture, auspicious temples, delicious street food, fun city-walks, stunning beaches and islands, spa and wellness or luxurious hotels and resorts. Thailand will continue be a perfect and memorable holiday destination for everyone!

Yanccheng Evening News: Living and working in Guangzhou, how would you describe China as a country? What are your thoughts on China's concept of "Chinese-style modernization"? Additionally, how do you perceive China's role in international affairs?

Sudanich: With Guangdong's total GDP ranking the nation's largest for the 34th consecutive year and the level of modernization and development it enjoys today, the province serves as an excellent example of the success of China's great development achievements.

Thailand applauds Chinas development success in the past decades and believes that China's strength and capability will build itself into a great modern socialist country in all respects.

We also believe that with initiatives to engage with various countries around the world, such as the Belt and Road Initiative and Global Development Initiative, China is in a good position to address global agenda.

 

  



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A SpiceJet flight was on its way to Dubai after taking off from Ahmedabad was diverted to Karachi following a medical emergency on board. The flight landed at Karachis Jinnah International Airport on Tuesday night after a passenger complained of low sugar levels. On humanitarian grounds, the plane was granted permission to land, and it remained grounded for nearly 2 hours. Later, it was refuelled and was allowed to continue its journey to Dubai.

SpiceJet officials revealed that the flight SG-15 landed in Karachi around 9:30 PM and medical assistance was offered to the passenger. "The Boeing 737 aircraft was going from Ahmedabad to Dubai when a 27-year old passenger, Dharwal Darmesh, suffered a suspected heart attack and needed medical attention," a spokesperson of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said here.

Also Read - Avionics Expo 2023: HAL To Showcase Prowess & Self-Reliance In Avionics

He said a medical team of the CAA gave emergency medical attention to the passenger whose sugar level had fallen and was experiencing palpitations.

"After getting medical treatment, the passenger has recovered and the flight has also been refuelled and will fly on to Dubai," the official said.

Earlier on Tuesday night, a spokesperson of the airline in New Delhi said the SpiceJet plane flying from Ahmedabad to Dubai was diverted to Karachi.

"On December 5, 2023, SpiceJet Boeing 737 aircraft operating flight SG-15 (Ahmedabad-Dubai) was diverted to Karachi due to a medical emergency," the spokesperson said.
New Delhi: Actress Karishma Tanna's OTT debut with Hansal Mehta's Scoop has created intense waves in the indsutry. Now, the show has been ranked amongst the top 10 shows of 2023 on IMDB.

'Scoop' is inspired by the real-life story of Journalist Jigna Vora who was wrongly accused of murdering another fellow journalist. The Karishma Tanna starrer was based on the novel Jigna wrote describing her life in jail and how this tag changed her life completely.

Karishma received rave reviews for her performance. The show was hailed as quite a great one. Now with IMDB also ranking it as one of the most popular shows this year, only makes the efforts of the entire more valid. Scoop was released on Netflix in June 2023.

Recently, Hansal Mehta's 'Scoop' won in two categories at the 2023 Busan Film Festival's Asia Contents Awards and Global OTT Awards. Actor Karishma Tanna has won the 'Best Lead Actress' award for the series 'Scoop' at the Busan Film Festival 2023.

She played the role of a journalist seeking justice in a politically volatile country in the web show. In response to her win, Karishma Tanna expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm, stating, "I am truly humbled and elated by this recognition at the Busan Film Festival. It has been an incredible journey bringing Jagruti Pathak to life in 'Scoop.' Big thank you to the Netflix and Hansal Sir for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. This award belongs to the entire team who worked tirelessly to make this project a reality. I am immensely grateful to my fans for their unwavering support, and I hope to continue pushing boundaries and delivering powerful performances in the future."

Karishma Tanna wore a black saree on the red carpet of the Busan Film Festival, exuding cultural pride. Director Hansal Mehta spoke of the Best Asian TV Series win at the Asia Contents Awards and Global OTT awards, saying, "This is a really proud moment for us to have received this recognition for Scoop as the best Asian TV Series in Busan. Our attempt at bringing alive a story that gripped India has been received with so much love, well beyond our borders. This award bears testimony to the spirit of Jigna Vora. Without her baring her heart to us, we would not have a story. To my creative partner Mrunmayee Lagoo Waikul, the hard work of all those who worked behind the scenes, and the highly collaborative efforts of Netflix and Matchbox Shots."

He added, "I am happy for our exemplary team of actors and crew who have made this show what it is! I'm also happy that this cautionary tale of our times is getting this recognition. There could be no more crucial time to tell this urgent story of moral, ethical, personal and journalistic hubris."
New Delhi: The trailer for Manoj Bajpayee's upcoming survival thriller, 'Joram,' has not only captivated the nation but has sent ripples worldwide, with fans expressing eagerness for the film's release in various countries.

Fans globally have taken to social media platforms, sharing their excitement and inquiring about the film's international screenings. Requests started pouring in from USA saying, Requesting the team of #joram to add more shows in theatres in Michigan USA We are waiting for the movie.

A fan from Nepal expressed, "I've been eagerly waiting for the movie Joram, but I'm not sure if it will be released in theaters in Nepal. Can anyone clarify its situation in Nepal?" Similarly, another Maryland, USA fan mentioned, "In Maryland, USA. Hopefully, it will release somewhere near me, either in Washington DC or Virginia!"

The overwhelming demand for 'Joram' across borders indicates the trailer's impactful reach and the movie's potential to resonate with audiences on a global scale. As fans eagerly await more information about international releases, the film's intense survival thriller narrative, featuring Manoj Bajpayee as a man on the run, has created a buzz that extends far beyond national boundaries.

With the world eagerly anticipating the release of 'Joram,' it seems the film is not just a national thriller but a cinematic experience that has truly captured global attention as fans worldwide demand more shows.

Directed, written, and crafted by Devashish Makhija and produced by Shariq Patel, Ashima Avasthi Chaudhuri, Anupama Bose, and Devashish Makhija.

The film stars Manoj Bajpayee and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, under the cinematic vision of Piyush Puty and the editing mastery of Abhro Banerjee. The soul-stirring music is composed by Mangesh Dhakde. A collaborative effort between Zee Studios and MakhijaFilm, Joram is set to become a cinematic milestone, eagerly awaited by fans and critics alike, and is set to release on 8th December.
New Delhi: The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has announced a special budget meeting scheduled for December 8, 2023, at 2:00 PM. The meeting, to be held at the Aruna Asaf Ali Sabhagar in the Dr. S.P. Mukherjee Civic Centre, will witness the presentation of the Revised Budget Estimates for the fiscal year 2023-24 and the Budget Estimates for 2024-25 by the Commissioner.

Objective Of Delhi MCD Special Budget Meeting

The official notice from the Municipal Secretary's Office revealed that the meeting aims to discuss and present the revised and upcoming budget estimates. The venue for the meeting is the A-Block, 4th Floor, Dr. S.P. Mukherjee Civic Centre, located on Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg, New Delhi. (Also Read: RBI MPC Meeting Starts Today: Check Key Agendas)

The notice, issued by Municipal Secretary Siva Parsad, explicitly states that the meeting has been convened under the orders of the Hon'ble Mayor. The announcement emphasizes the significance of this meeting, which will play a crucial role in outlining the financial trajectory and priorities for the upcoming fiscal years. (Also Read: Highest Paid Indian CEOs And Their Educational Qualification - Check)

Members And Representatives To Attend

The notice concludes by extending invitations to all members and individuals represented in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi. The participation of these key stakeholders is crucial to ensure comprehensive discussions and effective decision-making during the budget meeting.
The Delhi government today announced the winter vacation dates for the city schools. The schools will observe winter break between January 1 and January 6. A circular from the Directorate of Education said, "...in order to ensure that our students are not adversely affected due to the poor air quality in Delhi, a portion of winter Vacation was observed from November 9 to November 18...The remaining portion of the winter vacation for academic session 2023-2024 is scheduled to be observed from January 1 to January 6, 2024."

Winter vacation for the academic session 2023-24 was scheduled to take place from January 1 to January 15. The Delhi government had earlier given early winter break to the students due to severe air pollution. The schools were closed between November 9 and November 18 due to air pollution. Now, the administration has announced dates for the remaining portion of the winter break.

"All the Heads of Schools of Delhi are hereby directed to disseminate this information among all the stakeholders including the teaching/non-teaching staff, students and parents," the DoE said.

So, the students will have a total of 15 days of holiday but in parts.
Union Home Minister today tabled two bills - Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill 2023 and Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill 2023- related to Kashmir in the Lok Sabha today and said that one of the bills seeks to nominate two Kashmiri Migrant community members, including a woman, and reserve one seat for people displaced from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly. This comes amid the demand from the Kashmir-based political parties to hold early elections in the Union Territory. Both the bill were passed by the Lok Sabha after debate.

Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill 2023 amends the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Act of 2004 while Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill 2023 amends the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act 2019.

"J&K bill seeks to give representation in assembly to those who had to leave Kashmir due to terrorism...One of 2 bills on Jammu and Kashmir seeks to nominate two Kashmiri Migrant community members, including a woman, to assembly. One seat in Jammu and Kashmir assembly will be reserved for people displaced from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir," said Shah in the Lok Sabha.

The Union Home Minister said that the 2 bills related to Jammu and Kashmir will give justice to those deprived of their rights for last 70 years. Attacking opposition parties, Shah said had terrorism been tackled at beginning without considering vote-bank politics, Kashmiri Pandits wouldn't have had to leave valley.

Slamming Congress, Shah said that the grand old party has done greatest harm to Other Backward Classes while PM Narendra Modi has been working relentlessly for welfare of backward classes.

"The Bill that I have brought here pertains to bringing justice to and providing rights to those against whom injustice was done, who were insulted and those who were ignored. In any society, those who are deprived should be brought forward. That is the basic sense of the Constitution of India. But they have to be brought forward in a way that doesn't reduce their respect. There is a huge difference between giving rights and giving rights respectfully. So, instead of weak and deprived category renaming it to Other Backward Class is important," said Shah.

Shah said that the Jammu and Kashmir has suffered due to 2 blunders committed by former PM Jawaharlal Nehru - first announcing ceasefire and then taking Kashmir issue to UN. He said that the Modi government aims to end terrorist from the Union Territory. "I believe Modi govt will return to power in 2024 and by 2026 I hope there will be no terror incident in J-K," said Shah.
Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist Hanzla Adnan has reportedly been killed by unknown gunmen in Karachi, Pakistan. He was considered to be close to LeT chief Hafiz Saeed, who was the mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. Adnan Ahmed alias Ajala Adnan alias Adnan Bhai alias Ghazi Adnan was killed by unknown gunmen in Karachi. He was the mastermind of the Pampor terrorist attack in which the CRPF convoy was targeted & 8 CRPF Jawan had given supreme sacrifice for the nation.

According to reports, on the intervening nights of December 2 and 3, Hanzla Adnan was shot outside his house. Four bullets were reportedly found in his body. As per some media reports, he was taken to a hospital in Pakistan where he succumbed to his injuries.

Hanzla was the mastermind of the Pampore terrorist attack in which a CRPF convoy was targeted. Eight CRPF soldiers made the supreme sacrifice in that terrorist attack.


The national president of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi was shot and killed on December 5. On Tuesday, three miscreants reached Gogamedi's house in a Scorpio car and expressed their desire to meet him with the private security personnel. After they were granted permission, the trio went inside and spoke to Gogamedi for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, two miscreants took out pistols and started firing rapidly. The miscreants fired 17 bullets in 18 seconds. Gogamedi succumbed to his injuries.

Following the death of Gogamedi, an atmosphere of tension pervades Rajasthan following the murder of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena President Sukhdev Gogamedi in Jaipur. People of the Rajput community took to the streets and burnt tires in many places on Tuesday and the situation remains tense even on Wednesday. The Karni Sena has declared a 'bandh' on Wednesday and several demonstrations and protests are on. Shri Rajput Karni Sena's National President Mahipal Singh Makrana has demanded to encounter the killers of Sukhdev. Makrana reportedly said that until Gogamedi's killers are brought to justice, Gogamedi's body will not be cremated nor will the swearing-in ceremony of the new government be allowed to take place.

Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi (ANI)

Meanwhile, questions are being asked about whether there was negligence concerning Gogamedi's murder. Zee News has access to the secret document in which it is mentioned that the Punjab Police had earlier sent an alert to Rajasthan Police regarding a conspiracy to murder Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi by Sampat Nehra Gang. The Special Operation Group of Rajasthan Police also alerted the ADG Police Security. Gogamedi himself also raised concerns about threats and demanded security everywhere, from public forums to government offices. During this period, weapons were collected from private security in anticipation of the elections. This issue raises questions about fatal negligence or a conspiracy within the government machinery. The main question remains: Why was he not provided with security?

Meanwhile, newly elected MLA from Hawa Mahal in Jaipur and BJP leader Balmukund Acharya blamed the outgoing Ashok Gehlot government for the incident: "Ashok Gehlot is responsible for this incident. Mafia flourished in the state under this government," MLA Balmukund Acharya said as he joined in the sit-in protest by the members of the Karni Sena.

Gogamedi Murder: 2 Shooters' Pictures Released

Zee News has exclusive pictures of two shooters. Check out below:
GENEVA, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- The net profits of the global airline industry are expected to reach 25.7 billion U.S. dollars in 2024, representing a net profit margin of 2.7 percent, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said on Wednesday.

For 2023, the airline industry is expected to generate a net profit of 23.3 billion dollars, with a net profit margin of 2.6 percent, the IATA said in a statement.

The statement said that the airline industry's operating profits are expected to reach 49.3 billion dollars in 2024, up from 40.7 billion dollars in 2023.

Total airline industry revenues in 2024 are expected to grow 7.6 percent year-over-year to a record high of 964 billion dollars.

The IATA forecast that some 4.7 billion people will travel by airline in 2024, an all-time high that exceeds the pre-pandemic level of 4.5 billion recorded in 2019.

Cargo volumes are expected to reach 58 and 61 million tonnes in 2023 and 2024, respectively.

"Considering the major losses of recent years, the 25.7 billion dollars net profit expected in 2024 is a tribute to aviation's resilience. People love to travel and that has helped airlines to come roaring back to pre-pandemic levels of connectivity," IATA Director General Willie Walsh said.

"The speed of the recovery has been extraordinary; yet it also appears that the pandemic has cost aviation about four years of growth. From 2024 the outlook indicates that we can expect more normal growth patterns for both passenger and cargo," Walsh said. 
In today's DNA, Sourabh Raaj Jain analysed the claims made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Parliament where he termed former Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru's two decisions related to Kashmir as blunders. In the Lok Sabha today, the debate on the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Bill was taken up for the second day today. This bill proposed reserving two seats for Kashmiri migrants in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly and one seat for displaced individuals from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Amidst this discussion, when Home Minister Amit Shah began speaking, the discourse initially revolved around Article 370 and gradually shifted focus to Pandit Nehru.

According to Amit Shah, Pandit Nehru is directly responsible for the Kashmir issue, highlighting two blunders made by him. Amit Shah asserted that Pandit Nehru's first blunder was declaring a ceasefire when the Indian Army was winning in the 1947-48 war in Kashmir. The second blunder, as per Amit Shah, was Pandit Nehru taking the Kashmir issue to the United Nations.

When questioned about the decision to declare a ceasefire, Pandit Nehru had said, "We opted for a ceasefire to maintain peace and stop bloodshed. However, this was interpreted that whoever's army is present in a region, has the right to that territory. Pakistan thinks it has rights over PoK and also believes it has the right to intervene in the remaining parts of Kashmir."

This indicates that Pandit Nehru himself knew that he had made a significant mistake regarding the Kashmir issue, which Pakistan has been benefitting from to date. Home Minister Amit Shah reiterated this point in the Lok Sabha today. However, the Congress party remains unwilling to acknowledge it. Nevertheless, the truth remains unaffected by whether one accepts it or not.
Top Essential Things That Should be Included in Your Health Insurance Policy

It is becoming increasingly important to ensure you and your loved ones are leading a healthy lifestyle. From early on, it is important to invest time and effort into your health. It is equally important to have a robust health insurance policy.

A health insurance policy gives you financial protection against any uncertain medical expenses and gives you peace of mind during such emergencies. So, choosing the right health insurance policy is not just a prudent decision but a necessity. Especially in a country like India, where the healthcare landscape is ever-changing, choosing the right health insurance policy can be a daunting task.

In this blog, we at Chola MS Health Insurance cover the top essential things you should have in your policy for comprehensive coverage. You can learn more about our online health insurance policies at Chola MS Health Insurance.

Coverage for Hospitalization Expenses:

The foundation of any health insurance policy is the coverage of hospitalization expenses. When reading the coverage in the policy, check to see if you are receiving coverage for room rent, boarding, nursing expenses, surgeon's fees, and other related costs. These are the basic things to be covered. Now to go a step further and ensure you purchase a well-rounded policy, make sure expenses like surgeries, anesthesia, blood transfusions, and other medically necessary treatments during hospitalization are also covered.

Pre and Post-Hospitalization Expenses:

A comprehensive health insurance policy should not only cover the actual hospitalization but also the expenses incurred before and after the hospital stay. Pre-hospitalization expenses may include diagnostic tests and consultations, while post-hospitalization coverage should encompass follow-up visits, medications, and rehabilitation costs.

Day Care Procedures:

Thanks to technology, a lot of procedures can be done within a day, today. So your health insurance policy should cover daycare procedures that dont require 24-hour hospitalization.

Ambulance Cover:

In case of emergencies where a medical ambulance is required to take the patient to the hospital, transportation charges of the ambulance will be borne by the insurance company under this cover.

Maternity and Newborn Care:

This cover, as the name states, is for pregnant women. There are a lot of expenses revolving around childbirth. For example, maternity expenses, including prenatal and postnatal care, delivery costs, and newborn care. This cover takes care of all these expenses. One thing to keep in mind is the waiting period associated with these benefits.

Coverage for Pre-existing Diseases:

When you declare any pre-existing diseases in your policy application, theres usually a waiting period to get the policy. Opt for one that provides coverage for pre-existing conditions after a reasonable waiting period.

Network of Hospitals:

When you are purchasing online health insurance, check for the hospitals that are a part of your insurance provider's network. The wider the network, the better. This means that you will have access to quality healthcare facilities across the country.

No-Claim Bonus (NCB):

No-claim bonus is a reward for policyholders who go the entire policy year without making any claims. NCB will be reflected as an increased sum insured or a reduction in the premium for the subsequent year.

Critical Illness Coverage:

Critical illnesses can be mentally and financially exhausting. This is why it is imperative that you get a good health insurance policy with coverage for critical illnesses like cancer, heart attack, stroke, organ transplant, etc. This coverage gives the policyholder a lump sum upon diagnosis, offering financial support in a challenging period of time.

Renewability and Lifetime Coverage:

Choose an online health insurance policy that gives you lifetime renewability. This will ensure coverage even in your senior years, with the chances of increased health risks. There are some policies with an age limit for renewal, so be careful about this aspect when choosing a policy.

Alternative Treatments:

Health insurance today covers alternative treatments like Ayurveda, Homeopathy, and Unani as well. Consider this to be included in your health insurance policy if you prefer holistic healthcare. Chola MS health insurance provides coverage for alternative treatments from a recognized institute or under an authorized doctor.

Domiciliary Hospitalization:

This is when the medical treatment needs to be done at the patients home due to the unavailability of beds in the hospital or the patients condition. Make sure your policy covers domiciliary hospitalization expenses.

Emergency Evacuation:

This cover is especially useful for frequent travelers. In the event of an emergency, this cover ensures that you are evacuated to the nearest medical facility, even if it involves repatriation to your home country.

Health Check-up Benefits:

It is a good practice to take annual health check-ups as it helps detect potential health issues. As they say, prevention is always better than cure. Some policies offer annual health check-ups as part of the plan.

Policy Portability:

With this feature, you can switch from one insurance provider to another without losing any of the accrued benefits. This can prove to be helpful if you are dissatisfied with your present provider or if you find a better policy with another company.

Exclusions:

Understanding what is not covered is as important as, if not more, than understanding what is covered. It is your responsibility to carefully go through the policy exclusions. Common exclusions include cosmetic surgeries, self-inflicted injuries, and injuries arising from hazardous activities.

Claim Settlement Ratio:

Claim settlement ratio is the percentage of claims that are settled by the insurance company against the total claims received. You want to choose a provider with a high claim settlement ratio, as this implies that you will have better chances of receiving claim settlements.

Waiting Periods:

Different parts of a health insurance policy have different waiting periods. Ensure that you are aware of these waiting periods, especially for pre-existing diseases, maternity benefits, and specific treatments, as this will impact how you can utilise the policy in case a need arises within that period. This information is especially crucial to managing expectations when making a claim.

Customer Support and Grievance Redressal:

When purchasing online health insurance, it is important to remember that a good customer support and grievance redressal system is available to you. These aspects will ensure you a hassle-free experience and give you confidence that you can utilise the policy in a moment of need without added stress. Read up on the insurance provider's reputation for customer service in the market and check the grievance redressal mechanism. Prompt and transparent communication during the claim process is important for an overall positive experience. At Chola MS health insurance, you get 24/7 customer support from their virtual assistant, Joshu and you can reach out to our customer care number as well.

The right health insurance policy is a major decision involving all the above factors. We have outlined the essential components in this guide to serve you as a roadmap for navigating the complex landscape of health insurance in India. We at Chola MS Health Insurance encourage you to read up on all the policies and coverages available to you and make a decision based on your requirements and budget. Get started on your online health insurance journey today.

(This article is part of IndiaDotCom Pvt Ltds Consumer Connect Initiative, a paid publication programme. IDPL claims no editorial involvement and assumes no responsibility, liability or claims for any errors or omissions in the content of the article. The IDPL Editorial team is not responsible for this content.)
Mumbai - Nov 2023 - Launched in 2016, factoHR - the mobile-first hire to retire HR platform, has achieved a significant milestone by reaching a remarkable user base of 2.6 million in just 7 years through bootstrapping. This incredible growth can be attributed to factoHRs highly configurable DIY interface and value-for-money approach. This has earned trust and support of small and medium enterprises from various industries including manufacturing, healthcare, BFSI, ITes and many others worldwide. This noteworthy accomplishment underscores factoHR's dedication to revolutionizing the way businesses manage their workforce and streamline their HR operations.

factoHR, a cutting-edge HRTech platform, stands out by providing innovative, comprehensive, and scalable solutions encompassing recruitment, employee data management, attendance and leave management, payroll processing, performance management, employee time tracking, and more. Through its revolutionary mobile application factoHR has transformed employee attendance management which includes cutting-edge features such as geofencing, touchless attendance, insightful dashboards, facial recognition for punch verification, an AI-driven chatbot, employee mood surveys, and numerous other functionalities.

"We are excited to announce this significant milestone." states Aniruddh Nagodara, CEO and co-founder of factoHR. He continues, "This milestone signifies more than just a numerical figure; it is a testament to the collective hard work and relentless commitment of the entire factoHR team and the support we receive from our valuable clients. We are resolute in our mission to deliver unparalleled HR solutions and will continue to push the boundaries of our platform's potential.

A Valuable Lesson for Aspiring Startups

By relying on internal resources and organic growth, factoHR established itself as a prominent player in the workforce management sector. Through strategic partnerships with SAP and Microsoft Azure, prudent decision-making, and a focus on sustainable growth, factoHR has been able to fund its operations and expand without external funding. This approach allowed factoHR to maintain full control over its direction and vision, fostering a culture of innovation and self-reliance.

factoHRs bootstrapping journey serves as an inspiring blueprint for other startups. It illustrates that, with the right strategy and execution, substantial growth and impact can be achieved even without infusion of external capital. factoHR has been able to overcome the typical challenges faced by any bootstrapped company by remaining laser-focused on customer needs, fostering a culture of continuous innovation, and efficiently managing its resources.

About factoHR:

factoHR is a cloud-based, mobile platform that provides easy solutions to automate all HR operational activities. It is trusted by 3500+ companies and 2.6 million employees globally, including global customers like Wipro, Bajaj Auto, Siemens, Mercedes Benz, Ti Cycle, BSE, NRRS etc. This platform offers various features to ease out HR activities like the ESS portal, payroll, attendance, leave, performance, expense and many more. It has a registered office in Mumbai, a development center in Gujarat and branches in all major metro cities.

Issued by

factoHR

19, Balaji Towers, Sector 30A,

Vashi, Near Sanpada Railway Station,

Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra - 400705

(This article is part of IndiaDotCom Pvt Ltds Consumer Connect Initiative, a paid publication programme. IDPL claims no editorial involvement and assumes no responsibility, liability or claims for any errors or omissions in the content of the article. The IDPL Editorial team is not responsible for this content.)
This is another case of love transcending all boundaries. Javeria Khanum, a Pakistani woman, is all set to marry her fiance Sameer Khan, who is a resident of Kolkata. This is another instance of a cross-border love story where Khanum legally crossed over into India through the Attari-Wagah border on Tuesday.

A Karachi resident, Khanum crossed over into the Indian side from Attari in Amritsar district where she was welcomed by her fiance and some members of his family to the beats of 'dhol'. It was no easy journey for the lovers. Khanum's two previous visa application requests were reportedly rejected and then the Covid pandemic stalled their plans. After almost five years of waiting, she has now been granted a 45-day visa to tie the knot with her fiance.

"I am extremely happy and wish to convey my special thanks to the Government of India for granting me a stay here. We have been in a relationship for the past five years. We were trying to secure a visa for a long time and finally, it happened. I have been granted a 45-day visa," Khanum told ANI.

#WATCH | Amritsar, Punjab: A Pakistani woman, Javeria Khanum arrived in India (at the Attari-Wagah border) to marry her fiance Sameer Khan, a Kolkata resident. She was welcomed in India to the beats of 'dhol'.



She says, "I am extremely happy...I want to convey my special thanks pic.twitter.com/E0U00TIYMX  ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2023

In a similar love story, earlier, a Pakistani woman, Seema Haider, had crossed over to India to move in with Sachin Meena whom she befriended over an online game and eventually fell for. However, the central Intelligence agencies sought a report from Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and Uttar Pradesh Police on Haider, who travelled through Nepal to reach Noida from Pakistan's Karachi.

A senior official confirmed that the agencies were alerted to Haider's illegal and unauthorised passage to India to marry and move in with her partner and sought a detailed report from the SSB and UP Police. The couple subsequently started living together in Greater Noida. However, Haider was arrested on July 4 for illegally entering India without a visa, while Meena was put behind bars for sheltering illegal immigrants.

(With ANI inputs)
Nestaway, a leading platform in the rental housing sector, is reshaping urban living with its dedication to quality and innovation. Nestaways journey has not only revolutionized the rental housing market but has also set a standard of excellence in the industry.

Revolutionizing the Rental Experience

Nestaway has achieved great success by using an innovative approach to solve common issues related to renting houses. They introduced fully furnished homes, making it easier for tenants who no longer need to worry about furnishing. Through its user-friendly app, the company streamlines the rental process by collaborating with home owners. This has significantly changed the way people think about house rentals.

Nestaway's reliable commitment to quality sets it apart. Every Nestaway rental home must pass a thorough quality check, guaranteeing tenants a safe and cozy living space. With modern furniture and equipped with necessary amenities, Nestaway good homes are customized to accommodate the various needs and preferences of city residents.

Technological Innovation at the Core

Nestaway's success is driven by its dedication to using technology to improve the rental experience. Their user-friendly app allows people to easily search for homes, schedule visits, and complete the rental process smoothly. By utilizing technology, the platform has not only made it simpler to find rental properties but also brought transparency and efficiency to the entire ecosystem.

The Nestaway platform utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to effectively match tenants with their ideal homes. By considering factors like location, budget, and lifestyle preferences, the platform's smart algorithms provide personalized rental options to users. This tech-driven approach not only saves time and reduces effort in the home search process but also boosts overall satisfaction for Nestaway users.

Building Trust Through Partnerships

The companys success is not limited to its technological prowess; it is deeply rooted in the trust and partnerships it has cultivated over the years. The platform has established robust relationships with homeowners, property managers, and real estate developers, creating a collaborative ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders.

The Nestaway platform ensures quality through its partnerships, providing homeowners with responsible and trustworthy tenants. Their transparent and fair practices have earned the trust of both property owners and tenants, making them a preferred choice for long-term and mutually beneficial rental arrangements.

Community-Centric Approach

Nestaway goes beyond just renting homes. They understand the significance of fostering a sense of community in a fast-paced urban setting. They provide opportunities for all the tenants to engage through various community events, forums, and online platforms. This creates a space for interactions, sharing experiences, and building a strong sense of belonging among users.

The company takes a community-centric approach that goes beyond its digital platform. The company actively participates in social initiatives to make a positive impact in the communities it serves. Nestaway supports local charities and promotes sustainable living practices.

Nestaway Acquisition

Nestaway is prepared for a new chapter with its recent acquisition by Aurum Proptech. This strategic move combines the strengths of both companies. The Nestaway platform brings innovation to rental housing, while Aurum Proptech excels in real estate technology solutions.

Future Endeavors

As Nestaway reflects on its journey so far, the company remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the rental housing sector. With an expanding network of homes, a growing user base, and a commitment to sustainability, the company is ready for further success.

"We are proud of the advancements we have made in redefining the rental housing experience. Nestaway is not just a platform for renting homes; it is a community of individuals who share a vision for quality rental living. As we look to the future, our focus remains on leveraging technology, building meaningful partnerships, and creating a positive impact in the lives of our users," says Jitendra Jagadev, CEO.

Their dedication to quality, innovation, and community building sets a benchmark for the industry. It proves that with the right vision and commitment, it's possible to revolutionize traditional sectors and make a positive difference in the lives of millions.

(This article is part of IndiaDotCom Pvt Ltds Consumer Connect Initiative, a paid publication programme. IDPL claims no editorial involvement and assumes no responsibility, liability or claims for any errors or omissions in the content of the article. The IDPL Editorial team is not responsible for this content.)
Rajasthan, which on December 3 saw BJP triumphing over Congress in the state Assembly Elections, is in a state of tension. On Tuesday (December 5), Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, the national president of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, was shot dead by bike-borne criminals in Jaipur. This has shaken up the state and according to reports, the Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena has issued an ultimatum that until the killers of Sukhdev are not encountered, Gogamedi's body will not be cremated nor will the swearing-in ceremony of the new government be allowed to take place. Also, details are coming out about the three killers, one of whom died in the firing.

Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi Killing: Negligence Or Conspiracy?

Zee News has access to the secret document in which it is mentioned that the Punjab Police had earlier sent an alert to Rajasthan Police regarding a conspiracy to murder Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi by Sampat Nehra Gang. The Special Operation Group of Rajasthan Police also alerted the ADG Police Security. Gogamedi himself also raised concerns about threats and demanded security everywhere, from public forums to government offices. During this period, weapons were collected from private security in anticipation of the elections. This issue raises questions about fatal negligence or a conspiracy within the government machinery. The main question remains: Why was he not provided with security?

Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi Murder: Latest Developments

Here are some latest updates and what we know so far:

1. An atmosphere of tension pervades Rajasthan following the murder of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena President Sukhdev Gogamedi in Jaipur. People of the Rajput community took to the streets and burnt tires at many places.

2. According to reports in Zee News Hindi, Shri Rajput Karni Sena's National President Mahipal Singh Makrana has demanded to encounter the killers of Sukhdev. Makrana reportedly said that until Gogamedi's killers are brought to justice, Gogamedi's body will not be cremated nor will the swearing-in ceremony of the new government be allowed to take place.

3. In Jaipur, supporters of Karni Sena took to the streets. They held demonstrations outside the Metro Mass Hospital, and roads in Mansarovar were blocked.

4. The Karni Sena has annouced a Rajasthan bandh on Wednesday.

5. In a big development, it has come to light that the shooters used Naveen Singh Shekhawat to reach Gogamedi. Shekhawat was acquainted with Gogamedi for a long time and was a frequent visitor to Gogamedi's house. Taking advantage of this, both the other shooters managed to connect with Gogamedi. After killing Gogamedi with the first bullet, one of the shooters allegedly fired the second bullet at Naveen. It being said that Rohit Rathod Makrana and Nitin Fauji Haryana are the two shooters who escaped. However, no official confirmation has come from the police so far.

6. Earlier, Rajasthan DGP Umesh Mishra said that raids are being conducted at the possible hideouts of the miscreants. He said on Tuesday, "Today, Karni Sena chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi was murdered in Jaipur. The killers had come to his house on the pretext of discussing something... In this incident, Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi and one of his bodyguards were shot. An accused accompanying the killers was also shot, who has died. Raids are being conducted at the possible hideouts of the miscreants...We spoke to the Haryana DG and assistance has been sought. Rohit Godara gang has taken responsibility for the murder, they will be arrested soon."

7. In an unverified Facebook post, gangster Rohit Godara took responsibility for Gogamedis killing. Godara is closely associated with the gangs of Goldie Brar and Lawrence Bishnoi.

8. Outgoing Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot responded to the "The incident of murder of Shri Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi is very sad. I pray to God to give peace to the departed soul and strength to the family to bear this loss," Gehlot posted on X.

9. Rajasthan former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje said that the incident is highly condemnable and unfortunate. "The murder of Shri Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, National President of Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, is highly condemnable and unfortunate. May God rest the soul of the deceased and provide strength to the bereaved family," Raje posted on X.

10. On Tuesday, the three miscreants reached Gogamedi's house in a Scorpio car and expressed their desire to meet him with the private security personnel. After they were granted permission, the trio went inside and spoke to Gogamedi for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, two miscreants took out pistols and started firing rapidly. The miscreants fired 17 bullets in 20 seconds. Gogamedi succumbed to his injuries.

(With Inputs From Vinay Pant, Zee News Bureau And Agencies)
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah took a dig at the Modi government and Union Home Minister Amit Shah after the Centre brought a bill to reserve seats in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly for the refugees of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah said that the government which earlier claimed to bring back the PoK has now settled down with the reservation for PoK refugees.

While talking to reporters in South Kashmir, Abdullah said, "We had been told that they are getting PoK back. But has the whole thing ended by just giving them reservations? We had kept seats reserved for the People of PoK since 1947, let them bring back PoK and fill those seats in the assembly of Jammu and Kashmir, why have they just settled on the few reserved seats for PoK refugees."

Omar Abdullah further said, "BJP knows that they wont win the elections, thats why they are bringing reservations. We dont have a problem with reservations, but it should come via proper means like elected government."

On the issue of deferring assembly polls in J&K, Omar Abdullah said, "When you ask the Election Commission about polls in J&K, it points at the Centre, and when we ask the Centre, it points towards EC. Both are playing a fixed match and the people of Jammu and Kashmir are suffering."

When asked about Amit Shah's remark in Parliament today where the Home Minister without naming Abdullah's said that those going to London for vacation can't see development in Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah said, "As per my knowledge, nobody sees any positive change in the UT and even in Ladakh, otherwise why would have people of Ladakh asking for 6th schedule. In J&K, things have changed but not for any good of the people."
In the heartland of Kerala, the annual Mandalam-Makaravilakku pilgrimage to the revered Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa Temple unfolds a unique spectacle of interfaith unity. Pilgrims, clad in traditional black attire, adorned with bead chains, and anointing themselves with holy ash, embark on a journey that goes beyond religious boundaries.

A significant chapter in this pilgrimage narrative is the symbolic visitation to the Vavar Mosque, also known as Erumeli Nainar Juma Masjid, situated in the Kottayam district. This mosque stands as a living testament to the enduring spirit of harmony between Hindus and Muslims. Devotees pay their respects to Lord Ayyappa before commencing their spiritual trek to Sabarimala, weaving together a rich tapestry of legends, dreams, and cultural offerings.

In a display of communal amity, another stop on this unique pilgrimage route is the Arthunkal St Andrews Basilica in Alappuzha. For decades, this basilica has opened its doors to the devotees of Lord Ayyappa, reinforcing the local myth of the deity's friendships with a Muslim youth and a Christian priest.

Wearing their traditional attire and chanting the sacred 'swamiye saranam Ayyappa' mantras, Hindu pilgrims converge at the mosque and the church. The local lore narrates the story of Vavar, the Muslim friend of Lord Ayyappa, and the deep-rooted friendship between Ayyappa and Arthunkal Veluthachan, a Christian priest.

What makes this spectacle truly heartening is the wholehearted welcome extended by the mosque and church managements to the Hindu pilgrims. Facilities are provided, and prayers are offered, embodying the essence of interfaith unity and shared spirituality.

Despite the religious tensions that have tainted many parts of the world, the Sabarimala pilgrimage route, adorned by the mosque, church, and temple, stands as a beacon of communal harmony in Kerala. Hakim, the joint secretary of Erumeli Mahalla Muslim Jama-ath, attests to the inclusive nature of this tradition, highlighting that devotees from neighboring states also participate in this unique pilgrimage, contributing to the atmosphere of unity.

During the annual pilgrim season, the Vavar mosque witnesses a stream of Ayyappa devotees who, while not entering the prayer hall, encircle the mosque, offering kanikka and breaking coconuts as a mark of respect. The legend of Ayyappa and Vavar serves as a poignant reflection of Kerala's deep-rooted secularism.

The Jama-ath, responsible for the administration of the centuries-old mosque, provides essential amenities such as parking facilities and spaces for 'viri' (bedspread) for the pilgrims. At Sabarimala itself, a designated area known as 'vavar nada' pays homage to 'Vavarswamy,' the Muslim friend of Ayyappa, as revered by Hindu devotees.

After the culmination of their pilgrimage at Sabarimala, a significant number of Ayyappa devotees visit the 16th-century Arthunkal Basilica, constructed by Portuguese missionaries. Here, they ceremoniously remove their bead chains, marking the end of their 41-day vrata (renunciation of worldly pleasures). This ritual, overseen by Fr. Arthasseril, is followed by a symbolic cleansing through a bath in the church premises or a dip in the sea.
New Delhi: Veteran actor Shabana Azmi is hailed as one of the finest in Hindi cinema. Having grown up witnessing the golden era with her father and noted lyricist of that time - Kaifi Azmi, the actress has known Hindi cinema icons very closely. In an interview with Film Companions Anupama Chopra recently, Shabana Azmi spoke about the legendary Guru Dutt, sharing he was a very shy person off camera while narrating inside stories about the actor on a special series titled Golden Era of Hindi Cinema (1948-1965) presented by Google Arts and Culture. Shabana Azmi also discussed the making of the iconic song Waqt Ne Kiya Kya Haseen Sitam from Guru Dutt's film Kagaz Ke Phool.



Talking about Guru Dutt, Shabana Azmi shared, He was very shy and would speak very little. I used to find him extremely attractive but I would just sort of in and out of the room.

She further added, My father said something really amazing. Its very strange in those days, and in fact, it has started happening now again, you would imagine when a song is being written, a song as beautiful as Waqt Ne Kia Kya Hasi Sitam or Bichhre Sabhi Bari Bari, you would imagine that the words would have been written first and then after that, it would be set to tune. But it wasnt like that. First, the tune would be made, and then the words would be written. It would be written to the tune. So my father Kaifi Azmi always said it was like as if you first dig a grave and then find a corpse that can fit into that grave. So sometimes the legs come out. Sometimes the head comes out. But people started giving me work because they felt that I was able to dig. He could fit it. I was able to fit corpses into the right grave. So that was the thing.

Shabana Azmi also talked about Guru Dutt and the making of the Kagaz Ke Phool song Waqt Ne Kiya Kya Haseen Sitam, composed by SD Burman, sung by Geeta Dutt and penned by Kaifi Azmi. She said, Guru Dutt fell in love with the song and he said that I really want this song. So they said, There is no situation in the film. He said, You can make the whole song, and I will create the situation. And thats how this iconic Waqt Ne Kia Kya Haseen Sitam was made. Abba said that Guru Dutt had a very, very keen ear for music. See he didnt know the language (Urdu) very well. There was something quite magical about what he wanted. Its very interesting because SD Barman is also not known for his understanding of the Urdu language. Neither is Guru Dutt. But then look at the wonderful thing that came out of that era.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Shabana Azmi was recently seen in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani and Ghoomer.
New Delhi: In a bid to protect vulnerable citizens from falling victim to investment scams, the Indian Government has launched a crackdown on more than 100 fraudulent websites. These sites, reminiscent of predatory loan apps, have been preying on unsuspecting individuals. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), exercising its authority under the Information Technology Act of 2000, took the decisive step to block these websites on December 6.

Collaborative Efforts

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), working in tandem with the National Cybercrime Threat Analytics Unit (NCTAU) under I4C, identified and recommended the blocking of over 100 websites involved in organized investment and task-based part-time job frauds. (Also Read: Banks Will Open Five Days In A Week? Check What Banking Association Has Demanded)

The MeitY press release highlighted the collaborative efforts to curb these fraudulent activities that exploit innocent citizens. (Also Read: Highest Paid Indian CEOs And Their Educational Qualification - Check)

Modus Operandi and Financial Complexity

These scam websites were found to be intricately linked to multiple bank accounts, employing a sophisticated financial trail to obfuscate investigative efforts.

The funds were skillfully transferred between accounts, eventually being converted into cryptocurrency. This intricate financial maneuvering aimed to create confusion and hinder the tracking efforts of law enforcement agencies.

Telegram App Used For Luring Victims

According to a News18 report, a significant fraud case where a Chinese-run scam, operating through the Telegram app, amassed approximately Rs 712 crore. Victims were enticed with promises of part-time jobs and lured into a 'Rate and Review' job.

Initially, victims were assigned simple tasks, involving small investments and rating assignments for profits. As trust grew, they were coerced into more substantial investments with false assurances of substantial returns, ultimately falling prey to the scam.

Escalation Of Scams On Messaging Platforms

The scams, exploiting instant messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram, have seen an alarming rise. The Hyderabad Police uncovered one of the largest frauds of this nature, exposing the use of these platforms to carry out deceptive activities. Notably, crypto wallet transactions in this fraud were traced to a Hezbollah wallet, linking the scam to the Lebanese militia group.

Wide-Spread Impact

Instances of fraud are not isolated, with reports emerging from Kollam in Thiruvananthapuram, Uttarakhand, and Delhi. A victim in Kollam lost around Rs 1.2 crore to Chinese scammers.

Cybersecurity company CloudSEK reveals that scammers are adept at evading law enforcement detection, leveraging Chinese payment gateways and Indian money mules.

Government's Commitment To Safeguard Citizens

The decisive action taken by the Indian government underscores its commitment to safeguarding citizens against the escalating threat of online scams. As fraudulent activities evolve, collaborative efforts between government bodies become crucial in ensuring the security and financial well-being of the public.
Chinese Vice President Han Zheng attends the opening ceremony of the 2023 Imperial Springs International Forum in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province, Dec. 4, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

Given the problems facing the world, the theme of this year's Imperial Springs International Forum is "well-chosen," said former Prime Minister of Belgium Yves Leterme. "Those problems can only be addressed by more cooperation."

GUANGZHOU, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- At the 2023 Imperial Springs International Forum held in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province, participants from around the world voiced their support for true multilateralism and called for more cooperation to address global challenges.

With the theme of "Multilateralism: More Exchanges, Greater Inclusiveness and Cooperation," the event that concluded Tuesday attracted more than 130 participants from over 40 countries to discuss topics ranging from world economic recovery to global governance reforms.

Photo taken on July 15, 2020 shows the exterior view of the World Trade Organization (WTO) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. (Photo by Li Ye/Xinhua)

The participants believe that under the current circumstances, the world needs more than ever to adhere to the core values and basic principles of multilateralism and follow the vision of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits in global governance.

Multilateralism not only conforms to the trend of world, but also represents an effective way to maintain peace and promote development, they said.

The theme of the forum shows the importance of multilateralism, as "unilateralism and protectionism have very negatively impacted peace, stability, and sustainable development," said Vladimir Norov, former secretary-general of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and former foreign minister of Uzbekistan.

His remarks were echoed by Danilo Turk, former president of Slovenia and president of World Leadership Alliance-Club de Madrid.

Noting that the challenges the world faces today are complex and unprecedented, the former president said "our goal is one in which multipolarity is harmonized through the strength of multilateral institutions."

In the view of Vaira Vike-Freiberga, former president of Latvia, China has been a strong advocate and practitioner of multilateralism.

Recalling her personal experience as her nation's president, Vike-Freiberga, who is also co-chair of Nizami Ganjavi International Center, said one of the examples of China's practice of multilateralism is that it has treated large and small countries with equal respect.

Chau Chak Wing, president of the Australia-China Friendship and Exchange Association, said "the international situation is complex, and humankind is facing severe challenges never seen before."

The theme of this year's forum "sends a clear signal to the international community: it is necessary to overcome isolation through exchanges, resolve antagonism by promoting inclusiveness, and achieve development through cooperation," he said.

A container is hoisted at the Nanning international railway port in Nanning, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nov. 11, 2020. (Xinhua/Lu Boan)

ENHANCE COOPERATION

At present, the world economy is struggling to recover, anti-globalization sentiment is on the rise with surging unilateralism and protectionism. To address these problems, countries around the world should show solidarity and enhance cooperation, said the event participants.

Given the problems facing the world, the theme of this year's Imperial Springs International Forum is "well-chosen," said former Prime Minister of Belgium Yves Leterme.

Those problems "can only be addressed by more cooperation," he added.

Former President of Nigeria Olusegun Obasanjo agreed with Leterme.

Noting every country has its comparative advantage, Obasanjo said he believes that if countries work together, they can have not only economic recovery, but economic growth, which "helps everybody."

He called for global cooperation where "no country is left behind."

Taking the common challenge of climate change as an example, Zou Ciyong, deputy to the director general of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, said "it is not only about one country ... but an issue concerning the future of humanity as a whole."

"We have to work together," said Zou, also the managing director of the Directorate of Technical Cooperation and Sustainable Industrial Development, stressing the need to address the issue through global cooperation.

"I think if one looks at what has happened in the world, gaps have widened," said Sean Cleary, executive vice-chair of the Future World Foundation. "Therefore, part of the challenge that we face is to find solutions to address those problems, among others."

"Now, if you look at what the Global Development Initiative addresses in that regard, it makes very tangible suggestions as to how those problems should be addressed," said Cleary.

What is now necessary is that other countries "need to get their heads around these proposals and determine what we can agree on and how we can improve the system going forward," he added.

A visitor learns under the guidance of Chinese artist Wang Guanzhou during the exhibition of works of young Chinese and Beninese artists at the Chinese Cultural Center in Cotonou, Benin, Nov. 25, 2023. (Photo by Seraphin Zounyekpe/Xinhua)

PROMOTE EXCHANGES

Translating multilateralism into actions requires more exchanges among peoples and mutual learning among countries and civilizations.

"The foundation of friendly cooperation among all countries in the world lies in the people. We should continue to give full play to the unique and important role of people-to-people diplomacy in communicating with the world, deepening understanding, enhancing mutual trust, forging consensus, and promoting cooperation," the participants said in a statement released after the forum.

"I can see the forum is becoming one of the places for international dialogue and exchange ... Imperial Springs will take its place as an important venue," said Vike-Freiberga.

The former president of Latvia used a metaphor to describe the great importance and wide influence of people-to-people exchanges. "Imagine there is a center, and you have a lamp at the center, and its light is spreading out," she said.

Referring to the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by China, Cleary said "there are different civilizations with different cultural histories, so we have to find a way of respecting all of the cultural and civilizational diversity that make up the world."

Inclusiveness is very important, said Zheng Yongnian, board director of the Guangzhou Institute of the Greater Bay Area. "We should emphasize what China is doing is inclusive multilateralism."
JERUSALEM: Israel's widening air and ground offensive in southern Gaza has displaced tens of thousands more Palestinians and worsened the territory's dire humanitarian conditions, with the fighting preventing distribution of food, water and medicine outside a sliver of southern Gaza and new military evacuation orders squeezing people into ever-smaller areas of the south.

Here's what's happening in the war:

LEAFLETS IN KHAN YOUNIS

Khan Younis (Gaza Strip): Residents of Khan Younis, the largest city in southern Gaza and the latest focus of the Israeli military's ground offensive, say the army has showered the area with leaflets quoting a verse in the Quran. Palestinians deciding whether to flee Khan Younis as Israeli tanks draw closer viewed the quoted verse, The flood overtook them as they were wrongdoers, as an ominous portent.

The Israeli military had no immediate comment when asked about the leaflet drop. Journalist Aamer Tabsh in Khan Younis said he saw Israeli planes drop thousands of the fliers. Tabsh said residents are convinced the reference to the epic flood of Noah in the Quran and Bible means that something much worse is coming.

Some are linking it to Hamas' name for its Oct 7 attack against Israel, Al Aqsa Flood Battle. Others pointed to recent reports that the Israeli military was considering flooding Hamas' subterranean tunnel network with seawater to force out the militants.

JERUSALEM MARCH PLANNED FOR THURSDAY

Jerusalem: Ultranationalist Jews plan to march through the Muslim Quarter of Jerusalem's Old City on Thursday in a demonstration that risks igniting new violence in the holy city.

Israeli police on Wednesday confirmed that they gave permission for a march of 200 people to pass through the Muslim Quarter and through the Old City to the Western Wall, the holiest site where Jews can pray. The march coincides with the start of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah.

Ultranationalist activists have called on supporters to honour the memory of fallen soldiers who died in the latest Gaza war and to push for expanded Jewish access to Jerusalem's most sensitive holy site.

Jews call the site the Temple Mount, the spot where the biblical Temples once stood. Muslims call it the Noble Sanctuary, home to the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the golden Dome of the Rock. Police said Thursday's march not enter the compound.

Former Jerusalem police Chief Yair Yitzhaki told Army Radio he couldn't understand why police approved the march. He added that the route through the Muslim Quarter was an attempt to anger and inflame the area. Jerusalem has been the site of multiple Palestinian stabbing and shooting attacks since Israel's war with Hamas began on Oct 7.

A similar march in 2021 boiled over into an 11-day Gaza war.

ISRAEL WARNS IT WILL NOT RENEW UN OFFICIAL'S VISA Tel Aviv

Israel's foreign minister has warned that he will not renew the residency visa of the top UN humanitarian coordinator for the West Bank and Gaza Strip, saying she failed to condemn Hamas for its Oct 7 attack on Israel and emerging reports of sexual violence by Hamas against Israelis. We will no longer be silent in the face of the bias of the UN! Foreign Minister Eli Cohen wrote Tuesday on X, formerly called Twitter.

Lynn Hastings, a veteran UN official, serves as the UN resident coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory. She has been outspoken in criticising Israel's handling of the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas war which was triggered by Hamas' Oct 7 attack.

Cohen has previously threatened not to renew Hastings' visa, which expires next week, and has grown more vocal in recent days.

Stepane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN secretary-general, said late last week that his office was aware of Cohen's decision not to renew the visa, and that as a matter of policy, UN personnel do not overstay their visas. He criticised Cohen's social media posts, saying that personal attacks on UN personnel anywhere around the world are unacceptable and endanger lives.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said on Wednesday that the UN takes the allegations of sexual violence by members of Hamas during its attack on Israel extremely seriously.

UN HUMAN RIGHTS CHIEF URGES IMMEDIATE CEASE-FIRE Geneva

The UN human rights chief is demanding that the international community immediately push with one voice for a cease-fire in Gaza as the plight of civilians deepens. Palestinians in Gaza are living in utter, deepening horror, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said at a news conference in Geneva. As an immediate step, I call for an urgent cessation of hostilities and the release of all hostages. He added: The international community needs to insist with one voice on a cease-fire, immediately, on human rights and humanitarian grounds.

Turk said that, as more information emerges on allegations of sexual violence by members of Hamas and other Palestinian groups in their attack on Israel in October, it is painfully clear that these attacks need to be fully investigated to ensure justice for the victims. While investigators are trying to determine the scope of the sexual assaults, Israel's government is accusing the international community, particularly the UN, of ignoring the pain of Israeli victims.

Turk said he asked Israeli authorities in October for permission to deploy a team to investigate the attacks on Israelis, and has repeated the request, but hasn't received a response. We need to ensure that justice is served, because that's what we owe the victims, he said. Turk also expressed grave concern regarding dehumanising and inciteful statements made by current and former high-level Israeli officials, as well as Hamas figures, without citing specific comments or people.

History has shown us where this kind of language can lead, he said. This is not just unacceptable, but a competent court may view such statements, in the circumstances in which they were made, as incitement to atrocity crimes.

COUNTRIES OFFER TO STORE AID IN CYPRUS FOR SHIPMENT TO GAZA Nicosia

Cyprus says a number of countries have offered to store humanitarian assistance in the east Mediterranean island nation as part of a plan to ship the aid to Gaza via a maritime corridor. The countries include the UK, which last week sent humanitarian aid that is being stored at Larnaca port, from where ships will depart for Gaza once conditions on the ground in the territory allow for it, government spokesperson Constantinos Letymbiotis said Wednesday.

He said the UK has also offered a shallow-draft ship capable of approaching Gaza's shoreline, where it would be able to offload the aid without the need for port facilities required by large vessels. Earlier this week, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides said he held talks with his Egyptian counterpart, Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, and Jordan's King Abdullah II, who reaffirmed their support for the aid corridor. Israel has also backed the plan but has given no indication yet when the aid could begin to flow.

Last month, Christodoulides told The Associated Press that the proposed maritime corridor of about 230 miles (370 km) is the only one currently being discussed on an international level as a feasible way to significantly supplement the trickle of aid getting into the enclave through Egypt's Rafah border checkpoint.

ERDOGAN WARNS ISRAEL NOT TO ATTACK HAMAS ON TURKISH SOIL Ankara

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned Israel that there would be serious consequences if Israel pressed ahead with a threat to attack Hamas officials on Turkish soil. The Turkish leader also said his country has petitioned the International Criminal Court for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials to be prosecuted for alleged war crimes in Gaza.

His comments  made Tuesday and reported by Turkish media on Wednesday  echoed warnings from other Turkish officials in response to the head of Israel's domestic security agency, Shin Bet, who said in an audio recording that his organisation is prepared to destroy Hamas in every place, including in Lebanon, Turkey and Qatar.

Erdogan also said thousands of lawyers from various countries were employed to petition the ICC. We brought the war crimes committed in Gaza to the court's agenda and we will be following up on this, Erdogan said. Netanyahu will not be able to evade paying the penalty for his actions. Sooner or later, he will be tried and will pay the price for the war crimes he committed.

GAZA'S HEALTH MINISTRY SAYS WAR DEATH TOLL IS OVER 16,200 Khan Younis (Gaza Strip)

The Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza says 16,248 Palestinians have been killed and more than 42,000 wounded since the Israel-Hamas war broke out two months ago.

The ministry said Tuesday evening that the death toll included more than 6,000 children and more than 4,000 women. The ministry does not differentiate between civilians and combatants. The figures show a sharp rise in deaths since a weeklong truce between Israel and Hamas collapsed on Dec 1. Since the resumption of fighting Friday, more than 1,000 Palestinians were killed, according to the Health Ministry.

The United States had urged Israel to do more to protect Palestinian civilians as its blistering air and ground campaign shifted to southern Gaza, particularly in and around Khan Younis, the territory's second largest city.
After a brief pause for the release of hostages, fresh hostilities between Israel and Hamas have broken out. Israel has resumed bombing Gaza following the failure of further truce talks with Hamas fighters. According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, Israel now plans to flood the tunnel system in Gaza with water pumped from the Mediterranean Sea. Israel has assembled a large system of pumps that may be used to flood tunnels used by Hamas aimed at destroying the terror outfit's subterranean network of passages and hideaways in a bid to drive out fighters above the ground, the report mentions.

At least 1,200 people were killed in Hamas's attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border on October 7. Currently, 137 men, women, children, soldiers and foreign nationals are being held hostage in Gaza. Some people remain unaccounted for as Israeli authorities continue to identify bodies and search for human remains.

It was not clear whether Israel would consider using the pumps before all hostages were released, according to the story. Hamas has previously said it has hidden captives in "safe places and tunnels." When asked about the story, a U.S. official said it made sense for Israel to render the tunnels inoperable and that the country was exploring a range of ways to do that, reports Reuters.

The Reuters report further mentions that the Wall Street Journal said an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) official declined to comment on the flooding plan but was quoted as saying: "The IDF is operating to dismantle Hamass terror capabilities in various ways, using different military and technological tools."

As per the Wall Street Journal report, Israel first informed the United States of the option last month. The officials reportedly did not know how close Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government was to carrying out the plan. Officials were cited as saying that Israel hasn't made the final decision to go ahead or rule it out.

(With Reuters input)
Chinese Vice President Han Zheng meets with Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

BEIJING, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met with Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena in Beijing on Wednesday.

Han said that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-Mexico relations have maintained a high level of operation, becoming increasingly strategic, complementary and mutually beneficial.

Noting that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of China-Mexico comprehensive strategic partnership, Han said the two sides should implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, consolidate political mutual trust, firmly support each other, deepen practical cooperation, and enhance people-to-people understanding.

He said China welcomes Mexico to integrate its development strategy with China's major concepts and initiatives to elevate bilateral relations to a new level.

Expressing sympathies over the recent hurricane disaster that hit Mexico's Pacific coast, Han said China will provide support and assistance in the post-disaster reconstruction.

Barcena thanked China for always providing timely assistance to Mexico when it encountered difficulties.

Barcena said the Mexican side highly appreciates the major concepts and initiatives put forward by the Chinese head of state and is willing to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, deepen bilateral and multilateral coordination and cooperation, and promote the continuous development of bilateral relations. 

Chinese Vice President Han Zheng meets with Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)
More than 40 young sinologists from 30 countries and regions gathered on Friday last week in east China's Zhejiang Province to foster exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations. #GLOBALink





Produced by Xinhua Global Service




He Lifeng, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Financial and Economic Affairs, meets with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of the Republic of Singapore Lawrence Wong in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 6, 2023. The two sides exchanged views on China-Singapore economic and trade cooperation, international economic and financial situation, and other issues during the meeting. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

BEIJING, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Senior Chinese official He Lifeng met with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of the Republic of Singapore Lawrence Wong on Wednesday in Beijing.

The two sides exchanged views on China-Singapore economic and trade cooperation, international economic and financial situation, and other issues during the meeting.

Noting that China and Singapore represent an all-round, high-quality future-oriented partnership, He, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Financial and Economic Affairs, said China is willing to further synergize development strategies with Singapore and deepen high-quality cooperation in various fields.

Wong said Singapore looks forward to strengthening cooperation with China in economy, trade, finance and other fields to help further advance bilateral relations. 

He Lifeng, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Financial and Economic Affairs, meets with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of the Republic of Singapore Lawrence Wong in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 6, 2023. The two sides exchanged views on China-Singapore economic and trade cooperation, international economic and financial situation, and other issues during the meeting. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)
Abbas Ganbay

Russia welcomes the meeting of representatives of Azerbaijan and Armenia on the joint border, Azernews reports, citing Maria Zakharova, the head of Russian Foreign Ministry press service.

"Azerbaijan has confirmed its consent to the meeting in Moscow, while Armenia has not agreed to it.As for the peace agreement, Russia has sent proposals to Armenia and Azerbaijan to meet within the framework of multilateral events held in Moscow and on the territory of third countries," says Maria Zakharova

According to Zakharova, Azerbaijan responded favorably to Russia's proposal:

"Baku has confirmed to us that it is always ready for negotiations. Unfortunately, we cannot say the same about our Armenian partners. Perhaps they think that new 'consultants' from Washington, Brussels, and Paris will be able to make more interesting, better, more effective proposals. I don't know, I think we should always look at the previous experience, the experience of our neighbors. It's always useful. We all saw what the EU observers in Prague and Brussels led to. Maybe the Armenian people don't know everything. Because they do not inform the Armenian people about everything."

Zakharova warned the Armenian people that the advice of her closest "friends" (Western countries - ed.) to Armenia would lead to another surprise.

Zakharova also touched on the supplies of Western military equipment to Armenia

"We would never want Armenia to be deceived by its Western "friends," she added.
ISTANBUL, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Turkish police said Wednesday that a British armed gang leader was arrested for drug trafficking, arms smuggling and robbery during an operation in Turkiye's largest city Istanbul.

Shaun Monaghan, wanted by an Interpol Red Notice, was detained in the operation dubbed Cage-16, Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on the social media X.

According to the minister, Monaghan came to Turkiye in October and was captured at a hotel in the Fatih district of Istanbul on Tuesday, one day after Interpol issued the notice.

Monaghan's group has been operating in northeast Britain, distributing large quantities of cocaine and heroin, as well as dealing in weapons and committing armed robbery, Yerlikaya said. 
TEHRAN, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Iran on Wednesday successfully carried out a sub-orbital flight, bringing a homegrown capsule into space for bioscience research.

In a post on the Iranian social media platform Virasty, Iranian Minister of Information and Communications Technology Isa Zarepour said the 500-kg capsule was put into an orbit 130 km above the Earth's surface, using a Salman launcher, after 10 years of launch delay.

He said the project comes in line with the country's objective of manned space missions.

The project was commissioned by the Iranian Space Agency (ISA), the Iranian official news agency IRNA reported.

ISA President Hassan Salarieh told local media that the launch was sub-orbital, and the capsule was developed by the Aerospace Research Institute affiliated with the Iranian Ministry of Science.

Salman launcher has been manufactured by the Iranian Defense Ministry's Aerospace Industries Organization, according to the semi-official Fars news agency.

Iran sent its first bio-capsule, with living creatures in it, into space in 2010. 
A train is pictured at a railway station in Brussels, Belgium, Dec. 6, 2023. People's travel is affected in parts of Belgium due to a 48-hour strike by staff members in the railway system. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

A staff member walks on the platform at a railway station in Brussels, Belgium, Dec. 6, 2023. People's travel is affected in parts of Belgium due to a 48-hour strike by staff members in the railway system. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

A pigeon is pictured on the platform at a railway station in Brussels, Belgium, Dec. 6, 2023. People's travel is affected in parts of Belgium due to a 48-hour strike by staff members in the railway system. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

A passenger waits for his train on the platform at a railway station in Brussels, Belgium, Dec. 6, 2023. People's travel is affected in parts of Belgium due to a 48-hour strike by staff members in the railway system. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

Alternative service arrangement messages are shown on a screen at a railway station in Brussels, Belgium, Dec. 6, 2023. People's travel is affected in parts of Belgium due to a 48-hour strike by staff members in the railway system. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

A passenger uses a mobile phone on the platform at a railway station in Brussels, Belgium, Dec. 6, 2023. People's travel is affected in parts of Belgium due to a 48-hour strike by staff members in the railway system. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

This photo taken on Dec. 6, 2023 shows the entrance of a railway station in Brussels, Belgium. People's travel is affected in parts of Belgium due to a 48-hour strike by staff members in the railway system. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)
Rescuers transfer the injured near Marapi volcano in West Sumatra, Indonesia, Dec. 4, 2023. The number of climbers who died in the eruption of the Marapi volcano has reached 23, according to the West Sumatra Natural Resources Conservation Agency on Tuesday. (Photo by Andri Mardiansyah/Xinhua)

A man walks past a damaged building following a blast in Peshawar, Pakistan, Dec. 5, 2023. Seven people including four children were injured in a blast outside a school in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, rescue teams said. (Photo by Umar Qayyum/Xinhua)

A Smart Dragon-3 carrier rocket carrying a test satellite blasts off from waters off the coast of Yangjiang, south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 6, 2023. The Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center launched the rocket at 3:24 a.m. (Beijing Time). The test satellite was successfully sent into planned orbit, where it will test satellite internet technologies. (Photo by Zhang Jingyi/Xinhua)

Archeologists work at the relics site of the Xiongjialing Dam in Jingmen, central China's Hubei Province, Dec. 4, 2023. The Xiongjialing Dam, which was initially built around 5,100 years ago, is part of the Qujialing relics site in the city of Jingmen, central China's Hubei Province. The dam, complete with a reservoir and spillway, has been identified as China's earliest known water conservancy project.

The design of the dam suggests that ancient people in the area had learned to harness water based on the landform rather than simply implementing measures to defend themselves against floods, said He Nu, a researcher with the Institute of Archaeology, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. (Xinhua/Xiao Yijiu)

This aerial photo taken on Dec. 4, 2023 shows Haiyang Shiyou 122, Asia's first cylindrical floating, production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) facility, under construction in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province. Designed and manufactured in China, Haiyang Shiyou 122 has entered its final assembly phase recently in Qingdao. With a diameter of about 90 meters and designed displacement of 100,000 tonnes, the facility is capable of operating for 15 years at sea without returning to the dry dock. (Xinhua/Li Ziheng)

Tourists are seen at Qiantou Village of Pingnan County, Ningde City, southeast China's Fujian Province, Dec. 3, 2023. (Photo by Wang Wangwang/Xinhua)

This photo taken on Nov. 14, 2023 shows the Panlongshan section (front) and the Wohushan section (rear) of Gubeikou section of the Great Wall in Beijing, capital of China. Gubeikou section of the Great Wall is located in Gubeikou Town, Miyun District of Beijing. The defense of the Great Wall is an important part of the early Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. In 1933, the Chinese troops fought against Japanese invaders at places including Lengkou, Xifengkou and Gubeikou sections of the Great Wall.

As a part of the national anthem lyrics, the Great Wall is the spiritual symbol of the Chinese nation. The ancient Great Wall has witnessed Chinese people's patriotism, solidarity and strength. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)

This aerial photo taken on Dec. 5, 2023 shows black-necked cranes at a reservoir in Lhunzhub County of Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. Lhunzhub County is one of the main habitats for black-necked cranes to spend winter. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

A villager sorts navel oranges at a navel orange base in Luodian County of southwest China's Guizhou Province, Dec. 5, 2023. (Xinhua/Yang Ying)

A Smart Dragon-3 carrier rocket carrying a test satellite blasts off from waters off the coast of Yangjiang, south China's Guangdong Province, Dec. 6, 2023. The Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center launched the rocket at 3:24 a.m. (Beijing Time). The test satellite was successfully sent into planned orbit, where it will test satellite internet technologies. (Photo by Zhang Jingyi/Xinhua)
BEIJING, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Artificial intelligence (AI) technology has been applied in many fields, and it is now playing an increasingly important role in issues of public interest.

A group of students at the Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) in central China's Hubei Province has developed an AI system that restores old photographs to help families find their loved ones, who had gone missing 10 to 20 years ago.

For the last three years, the volunteer team of students from HUST has been providing technological support to many desperate parents looking for their children by restoring over 1,000 photos, and it has reunited 11 missing children with their families.

The team's AI technology has increased the odds of finding missing children, reduced search times and brought hope to many families, said Zhang Baoyan, founder of baobeihuijia.com, a major non-profit organization that searches for people who have lost contact with their families.

The team was founded by Sheng Jianzhong three years ago, when he was a doctoral student at HUST's School of Software Engineering.

He first thought to restore photographs of missing children when he came across a missing child notice with a poor-quality image in 2020. As he was majoring in digital image processing, he decided to use his skills to help the parents restore their images.

But the development of an image restoration algorithm requires the construction of a large database, which cannot be completed by one person alone. Many like-minded students soon volunteered to join Sheng's project, writing code and testing algorithms.

After six months of intensive technological research and development, they produced an image restoration AI algorithm that solved the issue of unclear faces in photographs.

A restored image can be generated just minutes after a blurry portrait is entered into the system, significantly improving resolution and the clarity of facial features. Parents are then able to print the high-quality images of their missing children onto T-shirts or large posters.

In December 2021, father Sun Haiyang was finally reunited with his abducted son after 14 years of searching. The case had become a media sensation after a movie based on the story was released in 2014. Sheng's team contributed to efforts to find the boy, and Sun expressed his gratitude to them when they met.

The team maintains close relations with public security organs and non-profit organizations. In many cases, they don't have direct contact with the families, and sometimes they don't even know about their involvement. "But we still feel fulfilled, and we are happy for them," said Zhang Shaoyun, a member of the team.

The volunteers have also made tapes and postcards using the restored photos to expand the scale of searches.

"We have created a small community where families can share information, send messages and comfort each other," Sheng said.

He has also been exploring AI application in other areas. Ahead of the 2021 Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb-sweeping Day, China's Ministry of Veterans Affairs launched a program searching for relatives of unidentified martyrs. It published information about 100 such martyrs, providing photographs of 68. Sheng's team worked against the clock for three days to release the restored images before the festival.

In the future, Sheng plans to build a more professional team to run the existing non-profit programs. "It would use technology to help people who have lost their loved ones, and also cultivate more young scholars to work for good causes," he said. 
BEIJING, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- It is urgent to reach a ceasefire between Palestine and Israel as soon as possible, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Wednesday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when exchanging views with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the Palestine-Israel conflict over the phone.

At the crossroads of war and peace, major countries, in particular, should adhere to equity and justice, uphold objectivity and impartiality, display calmness and rationality, make an all-out effort to de-escalate the situation, and prevent a larger humanitarian crisis, he said.

Any solution to the current crisis in Gaza must not deviate from the two-state solution, and any arrangement concerning the future of Palestine must reflect the will of the Palestinian people, Wang added. 
RAMALLAH, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Two Palestinians were killed and at least 20 others injured during clashes with Israeli soldiers in the West Bank on Wednesday, the Palestinian Health Ministry said.

The ministry said in a press statement that a 16-year-old teenager was killed by the Israeli army in the town of Tammun, and a 23-year-old man was killed in the Al-Faraa refugee camp in the northern West Bank.

The clashes followed Israeli soldiers' raid on Al-Faraa camp and Tammun, south of Tubas, during which at least 11 Palestinians were injured, said a Palestinian security source who requires anonymity.

In addition, three Palestinians were injured, one of them critically, and two others were arrested during an Israeli raid on the Dheisheh refugee camp south of Bethlehem on Wednesday, a local source said, adding the seriously injured young man was shot in the abdomen.

The source added that seven Palestinians were injured during an Israeli military operation in the city of Jenin and its camp that lasted about nine hours, during which 20 Palestinians were arrested and infrastructure was damaged. 
JERUSALEM, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- A surface-to-surface missile was launched toward the southern Israeli resort city of Eilat on Wednesday and was intercepted by an Israeli anti-ballistic Arrow missile, Israel's military reported.

"A surface-to-surface missile launched toward Israel was identified, and was successfully intercepted in the Red Sea," the military said in a statement.

"The target did not cross into Israeli territory, did not pose a threat to civilians and the sirens that sounded were according to protocol," the statement added.

The missile, which, according to the state-owned Kan TV news, was apparently launched by Yemen's Houthis. It triggered air raid sirens in Eilat, Israel's southernmost city. Houthis have launched several missiles toward Israel since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas conflict on Oct. 7. 
BEIJING, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- As agreed with the Mekong countries, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) co-chair Myanmar's Deputy Prime Minister and Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Than Swe will jointly host the eighth LMC Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Beijing on Dec. 7, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin announced on Wednesday. 




KUNMING, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- World media leaders are gathering in China to contribute media power to building a better future for humanity.

The 5th World Media Summit has attracted more than 450 representatives of nearly 200 institutions from over 100 countries and regions, including media outlets, think tanks and international organizations.

From Beijing to Guangzhou and Kunming, media executives have exchanged views on boosting global confidence and cooperation, aiming to forge a vision for the media's role in shaping a better world.

CONFIDENCE

Media leaders attending the summit have noted that the world is undergoing accelerated changes unseen in a century, and that uncertainties and unforeseen factors are on the rise.

Fu Hua, president of Xinhua News Agency, said in a keynote speech at the summit's opening ceremony in Guangzhou that media organizations shoulder important responsibility in helping boost global confidence and promote common development.

"Confidence is more valuable than gold when facing difficulties," Fu said, calling on attendees to use the media to convey positive energy, amplify voices that promote the development of human society, and encourage countries to join hands in addressing the challenges facing humanity.

Iqbal Surve, chairman of South Africa's Independent Media, said that the media's role extends beyond conveying facts, and that it should catalyze social-economic change and development.

"If we have one task only as a social responsibility, that task is to ensure that media must be a change agent in the world today, to promote a common humanity and a shared future and shared prosperity," he added.

This photo taken on Dec. 5, 2023 shows the opening ceremony of the 5th World Media Summit (Yunnan, China) and the 2nd Yunnan International Communication Forum held in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Xinhua/Hu Chao)

COOPERATION

The attendees have also agreed that the media sector is currently faced with challenges that entail collaboration with one other in the pursuit of development.

At a meeting that gathered leaders of Xinhua News Agency, Reuters, The Associated Press, and Agence France-Presse in Beijing last Friday, the participants discussed the emergence of new technologies such as artificial intelligence and the need to combat fake news.

The executives agreed that international news agencies should work together and stay committed to providing users with objective, fair and accurate information.

"We view collaboration with fellow news agencies as paramount," said AP Vice President YK Chan, adding that collaboration allows news agencies to tell important stories, keep their journalists safe and address pressing challenges facing the industry.

Mikhail Gusman, first deputy director-general of TASS Russian News Agency, also underscored the significance of cooperation in a world of information riddled with challenges.

"We believe that it is our primary task to enhance cooperation, seek solutions together and foster mutual trust," Gusman said at the summit's opening ceremony.

Attendees of the 5th World Media Summit (Yunnan, China) and the 2nd Yunnan International Communication Forum learn about Yunnan's Pu'er tea in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Dec. 5, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Ming)

CHINESE MODERNIZATION

Chinese modernization is proving a hot topic at the summit.

During the ongoing event, Xinhua unveiled a research report titled "The Humanomics in the New Era," offering an overview of China's new development format focusing on a people-centered approach and the integrated development of culture and economy in the process of advancing Chinese modernization.

"The media play a crucial role in advancing the modernization endeavors of countries worldwide," said Lyu Yansong, editor-in-chief of Xinhua News Agency. He expressed the hope of enhancing collaboration and deepening understanding among media organizations around the world to advance modernization of the entire human society through collaborative efforts.

The summit's parallel session is taking place in the city of Kunming in Yunnan Province, where epic treks of a herd of wild elephants in recent years have attracted the attention of over 3,000 media outlets worldwide, with reports reaching more than 190 countries and regions.

Harmony between human and nature is a key element of Chinese modernization. The attendees have agreed that the Chinese modernization philosophy can provide development opportunities and insights for the entire world.

It is important to strike a balance between economic development and environmental protection, said Brem-Nagy Marton Bonifac, a Hungarian journalist who visited Kunming during the summit.

"The story of the elephants' adventure is really heart-warming," he said, adding that it is the media's duty to cover such stories to reflect modernization progress that highlights ecological advancement. 
Turkish export credit bank Turk Eximbank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) have signed a $100 million financing agreement to support companies affected by the twin earthquakes that struck southern Turkiye on Feb. 6, Azernews reports, citing Anadolu Agency.

"Turk Eximbank has signed a facility agreement on 04.12.2023 with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) under the guarantee of the Turkish Treasury and Finance Ministry for an amount of $100 million with a maturity of 10 years," the bank said in a statement on Wednesday.

This loan is the first to be made under the terms of the $300 million support package, which includes a $100 million direct loan and a $200 million guarantee previously approved by AIIB.

The loan aims to finance Turkish export companies such as repair, maintenance, reconstruction, machinery replacement, and reinforcement resulting from the earthquakes.

Turk Eximbank General Manager Ali Guney said: "As the fruits of our banks work in 2023, we aim to bring long-term supranational funds worth more than $1.4 billion to our country in the first 6 months of the next year."

The transaction will enable Turk Eximbank to provide support to cover companies losses in the earthquake region while also accelerating the regions economic recovery, Guney added.
YAOUNDE, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Chadian and Mauritanian leaders acknowledged on Wednesday that the Group of Five for the Sahel (G5 Sahel) has become ineffective following the departure of three other founding countries.

Last week, Niger and Burkina Faso announced their withdrawal from all G5 Sahel bodies. Mali had previously withdrawn from all organs and bodies of the G5 Sahel last year.

In a joint statement, Mauritania and Chad expressed their acknowledgment and respect for the sovereign decisions made by Burkina Faso and Niger to exit the international force.

The statement highlighted their intention to implement Article 20 of the alliance, which specifies that the body can be dissolved upon the request of at least three member states.

The G5 Sahel was established on Dec. 19, 2014, by Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania and Chad with the aim of combating terrorism in the Sahel region.

In the past decade, the unrest in the Sahel, a vast semi-arid region of Africa extending from Senegal eastward to Sudan, has undermined security in regional countries. 
A police cordon tape is pictured at the scene of a massive explosion in Arlington, Virginia, the United States, Dec. 4, 2023. Resident James Yoo, 56, the suspect inside an Arlington, Virginia, home that went up in flames Monday night while police were executing a search warrant is presumed to be dead, authorities said Tuesday.

Authorities are also investigating the cause and origin of the explosion, which was heard in the area at approximately 8:25 p.m. Monday local time. The blast destroyed the home instantly and electricity was disrupted in the vicinity. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

WASHINGTON, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) - Resident James Yoo, 56, the suspect inside an Arlington, Virginia, home that went up in flames Monday night while police were executing a search warrant is presumed to be dead, authorities said Tuesday.

"Human remains have been located at the scene. The office of the Chief Medical Examiner will work to positively identify the individual and cause and manner of death," Arlington County Police Chief Andy Penn told reporters at a news conference.

Authorities are also investigating the cause and origin of the explosion, which was heard in the area at approximately 8:25 p.m. Monday local time. The blast destroyed the home instantly and electricity was disrupted in the vicinity.

Preliminary investigation indicated a suspect discharged a flare gun approximately 30 to 40 times from inside his residence into the surrounding neighborhood, according to a statement from the Arlington County Police Department.

"During the course of the investigation, officers obtained a search warrant for the suspect's residence and attempted to make contact with the suspect over the telephone and through loudspeakers. The suspect did not respond and remained barricaded inside the residence. As officers were attempting to execute the search warrant, the suspect discharged several rounds, from what is believed to be a firearm, inside the home," the statement said.

No property damage or injuries were reported related to the discharge of the flare gun, the statement said. Three officers reported minor injuries and there were no transports to the hospital related to this incident.

Police are investigating "concerning" posts the suspect allegedly made on social media. Yoo listed his address in multiple LinkedIn posts, which are filled with "rambling and at times incoherent conspiracy theories" against government officials, law enforcement, media outlets, according to a report by CNN. 

Police officers work at the scene of a massive explosion in Arlington, Virginia, the United States, Dec. 4, 2023. Resident James Yoo, 56, the suspect inside an Arlington, Virginia, home that went up in flames Monday night while police were executing a search warrant is presumed to be dead, authorities said Tuesday.

Authorities are also investigating the cause and origin of the explosion, which was heard in the area at approximately 8:25 p.m. Monday local time. The blast destroyed the home instantly and electricity was disrupted in the vicinity. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

Police officers work at the scene of a massive explosion in Arlington, Virginia, the United States, Dec. 4, 2023. Resident James Yoo, 56, the suspect inside an Arlington, Virginia, home that went up in flames Monday night while police were executing a search warrant is presumed to be dead, authorities said Tuesday.

Authorities are also investigating the cause and origin of the explosion, which was heard in the area at approximately 8:25 p.m. Monday local time. The blast destroyed the home instantly and electricity was disrupted in the vicinity. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

A police officer works at the scene of a massive explosion in Arlington, Virginia, the United States, Dec. 4, 2023. Resident James Yoo, 56, the suspect inside an Arlington, Virginia, home that went up in flames Monday night while police were executing a search warrant is presumed to be dead, authorities said Tuesday.

Authorities are also investigating the cause and origin of the explosion, which was heard in the area at approximately 8:25 p.m. Monday local time. The blast destroyed the home instantly and electricity was disrupted in the vicinity. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

Police officers work at the scene of a massive explosion in Arlington, Virginia, the United States, Dec. 4, 2023. Resident James Yoo, 56, the suspect inside an Arlington, Virginia, home that went up in flames Monday night while police were executing a search warrant is presumed to be dead, authorities said Tuesday.

Authorities are also investigating the cause and origin of the explosion, which was heard in the area at approximately 8:25 p.m. Monday local time. The blast destroyed the home instantly and electricity was disrupted in the vicinity. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

A police officer works at the scene of a massive explosion in Arlington, Virginia, the United States, Dec. 4, 2023. Resident James Yoo, 56, the suspect inside an Arlington, Virginia, home that went up in flames Monday night while police were executing a search warrant is presumed to be dead, authorities said Tuesday.

Authorities are also investigating the cause and origin of the explosion, which was heard in the area at approximately 8:25 p.m. Monday local time. The blast destroyed the home instantly and electricity was disrupted in the vicinity. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

Police officers work at the scene of a massive explosion in Arlington, Virginia, the United States, Dec. 4, 2023. Resident James Yoo, 56, the suspect inside an Arlington, Virginia, home that went up in flames Monday night while police were executing a search warrant is presumed to be dead, authorities said Tuesday.

Authorities are also investigating the cause and origin of the explosion, which was heard in the area at approximately 8:25 p.m. Monday local time. The blast destroyed the home instantly and electricity was disrupted in the vicinity. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)
HARARE, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday donated an assortment of goods and medicines to Zimbabwe to help with its cholera fight.

Handing the consignment to Zimbabwean Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora, WHO Regional Director for Africa Matshidiso Moeti expressed the WHO's "desire" to end the outbreak with the essential medicines and diagnostic kits needed before "the Christmas mass movement of people begins."

"We all have to redouble our efforts, mobilize the community, and move them to treatment centers, so they get treatment which saves lives," Moeti said.

"This epidemic has to come to an end as soon as possible," said Mombeshora, noting, "This donation is going to make a huge impact."

The water crisis that hampered the cholera fight in Harare's high-density suburb of Kuwadzana, epicenter of the outbreak, has been addressed, he added.

According to the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Zimbabwe had recorded a cumulative 9,895 suspected cholera cases as of Nov. 30, with 9,466 recoveries and 53 confirmed deaths. 
ADDIS ABABA, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat strongly condemns the violence in Guinea-Bissau, perpetrated by elements of the National Guard, said an AU statement on Tuesday.

He expressed his concern over the dissolution of the West African country's National Assembly, and called on the country's government and all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue in the furtherance of peace and to respect the constitution to ensure the preservation of stability and unity of the country.

"The chairperson continues to closely monitor developments in the country and reiterates the African Union's support to the people and government of Guinea-Bissau," the statement said.

Clashes erupted between elements of the National Guard and special forces of the Presidential Guard in Bissau, the capital of the country, on Thursday night, and continued Friday as a group of National Guard soldiers attempted to free a detained minister from the judicial police building.

Amid the ongoing situation, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo dissolved the parliament on Monday, after meeting with the Council of State, the president's consultative body.

According to a presidential decree, the attack by a heavily armed National Guard group on the judicial police building in Bissau last week aimed to "subvert the constitutional order" and resulted in a tragic loss of lives.

Embalo said Saturday that the deadly violence in the capital was an attempted coup with "serious consequences for all those involved" upon his return from Dubai, where he attended a UN climate conference.

This was the second time that Embalo dissolved Guinea-Bissau's parliament since his assuming office in 2020. In May 2022, he dissolved the parliament due to tensions between the legislative body and the presidency. In February 2022, Guinea-Bissau's army members staged a failed coup against Embalo. 
GAZA, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- At least 100 Palestinians were killed in the past 24 hours as heavy fighting continued between the Israeli army and Palestinian militants on the ground, Hamas-run health ministry said on Wednesday.

The ministry said in a statement that Israeli air and artillery attacks on Jabalia refugee camp in nothern Gaza left at least 60 people dead and dozens of others wounded.

The ministry accused Israeli military of bombing the Palestine School, which houses displaced people in the west of the refugee camp, and a residential neighborhood in the camp.

Meanwhile, at least 40 other people were killed in Israeli attacks on various areas in the Gaza Strip, including those on inhabited homes in the cities of Gaza, Khan Younis, and the Nuseirat refugee camp, the ministry added.

Palestinian security sources told Xinhua that the Israeli bombing intensified in the last hours from the air, land and sea, especially in the eastern parts of Gaza City, the Jabalia refugee camp, and areas east of Khan Younis.

At the same time, tens of thousands of displaced people arrived in Rafah, the southwestern tip of the Gaza Strip.

Most of the newly arrived people have to settle on the streets as shelters across the city far exceeded their capacity, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said in a statement.

The OCHA added that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) distributed hundreds of tents that were set up in two separate sites for displaced persons in Rafah, along with hundreds of temporary shelters.

So far, 1.9 million people in Gaza, or approximately 85 percent of the population, are internally displaced, according to OCHA.

Nearly 1.2 million of these displaced people have been registered in 156 UNRWA facilities across the Gaza Strip, including about 1 million registered in 99 UNRWA shelters in the south.

On Tuesday evening, the Hamas-run government media office in Gaza said that the Palestinian death toll had risen to 16,248 as a result of Israel's attacks on the Gaza Strip since Oct. 7.

The media office said in a statement that among the dead were 7,112 children and 4,885 women, 286 doctors and medical staff, 32 civil defense staff, and 81 journalists.

According to the statement, the number of missing persons reached 7,600, and the number of injured people reached 43,616.

Israel has been waging a large-scale war against Hamas in Gaza since Oct. 7, after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on southern Israel that has claimed the lives of about 1,200 people. 
JERUSALEM, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Israeli troops and Hamas militants engaged in face-to-face battles on Wednesday for control of Khan Younis, Gaza's second-largest city, amidst heavy fighting across the Strip, impeding the desperately needed distribution of aid.

The Israeli army said in a statement that Israeli commandos reached "the heart of Khan Younis" and encircled it. Ground and air forces launched an attack on the city, killing "several" militants, destroying about 30 tunnel shafts, and raiding a Hamas battalion post, where weapons were found and destroyed, according to the army.

Meanwhile, Israeli forces continued their attacks in the northern part of Gaza, with "fierce fighting" taking place, especially in Jabalia and Shujaiya. More than 250 locations were struck from the air over the past day.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a video address that Israeli forces were "surrounding" the home of Yahya Sinwar, Hamas leader in the Gaza Strip. "His home is not his castle, and he can flee, but it is only a matter of time until we find him," Netanyahu said.

Israel Defense Forces Spokesman Daniel Hagari told a press briefing that Sinwar is not in his home. "He is underground," said Hagari. "I don't want to say where he is and how and what intelligence we have (on his whereabouts)," Hagari said.

Hagari confirmed that one of the goals of the attack, triggered by the deadly Oct. 7 Hamas assault on southern Israel, is to "locate Sinwar and kill him."

The blockade imposed by Israel and the fighting across the 365-square-km enclave increased fears of the "collapse of the humanitarian system in Gaza," United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a letter to the UN Security Council, urging the Security Council to "press to avert a humanitarian catastrophe" in Gaza and unite in a call for a full humanitarian ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militants.

According to the United Nations, over the past three days, the delivery of water and flour was possible only to reach the area of Rafah due to the relentless bombardment of roads across the enclave.

At least 1.87 million Gazans have been forced to flee their homes since the start of the conflict, said the UN.

According to the Hamas-run media office on Tuesday evening, more than 16,248 people have been killed, of whom about 75 percent are children, women, and the elderly. At least 43,616 people, mostly children and women, were injured, while more than 7,600 others are still missing.

Despite Qatar's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Majed Al-Ansari saying in an interview with the Al-Quds Al-Arabi newspaper on Tuesday that "Doha's efforts to mediate an end to the crisis in Gaza are ongoing and will not cease," the attack has shown no signs of abating.

Israel's Ha'aretz newspaper quoted senior Israeli security officials as saying that, Israel wishes to continue the intensive fighting for at least a month before withdrawing most of its forces and carrying out only "specific raids."

Israel's military chief Herzi Halevi did not commit to a specific time but said during a talk with soldiers on Wednesday that the attack "will continue for some time." 
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks to the press outside the Security Council Chamber at the UN headquarters in New York, on Nov. 27, 2023. (Xinhua/Xie E)

Given the scale of the loss of human life in Gaza and Israel in such a short amount of time, the secretary-general has delivered a letter to the president of the Security Council, invoking Article 99 of the UN Charter, said a UN spokesman.

UNITED NATIONS, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday asked the Security Council to act to avert a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, said his spokesman.

In a rare move, Guterres wrote to the president of the Security Council to demand action, invoking Article 99 of the UN Charter for the first time since he became UN secretary-general in 2017.

Article 99 states, "The Secretary-General may bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security."

Given the scale of the loss of human life in Gaza and Israel in such a short amount of time, the secretary-general has delivered a letter to the president of the Security Council, invoking Article 99 of the UN Charter, said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for Guterres.

In the letter, which was made available by the UN Secretariat, Guterres appeals for a humanitarian cease-fire to be declared.

"The international community has a responsibility to use all its influence to prevent further escalation and end this crisis. I urge the members of the Security Council to press to avert a humanitarian catastrophe. I reiterate my appeal for a humanitarian cease-fire to be declared," reads the letter.

"This is urgent. The civilian population must be spared from greater harm. With a humanitarian cease-fire, the means of survival can be restored, and humanitarian assistance can be delivered in a safe and timely manner across the Gaza Strip," it says.

A man carries a body of a victim after an Israeli strike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Dec. 4, 2023. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua)

More than eight weeks of hostilities in Gaza and Israel have created appalling human suffering, physical destruction and collective trauma across Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory, says the letter.

More than 1,200 people were killed in the attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups on Oct. 7. Some 250 people were abducted, more than 130 of whom are still captive, it says.

Civilians throughout Gaza face grave danger. Since the start of Israel's military operation, more than 15,000 people have reportedly been killed, over 40 percent of whom were children. Thousands of others have been injured. More than half of all homes have been destroyed. Some 80 percent of the population of 2.2 million has been forcibly displaced, into increasingly smaller areas. More than 1.1 million people have sought refuge in UN facilities across Gaza, creating overcrowded, undignified, and unhygienic conditions. Others have nowhere to shelter and find themselves on the street. Explosive remnants of war are rendering areas uninhabitable. There is no effective protection of civilians. The health care system in Gaza is collapsing. Hospitals have turned into battlegrounds. Only 14 hospitals out of 36 facilities are even partially functional. The two major hospitals in southern Gaza are operating at three times their bed capacity and are running out of basic supplies and fuel. They are also sheltering thousands of displaced persons. Under these circumstances, more people will die untreated in the coming days and weeks. Nowhere is safe in Gaza, says the letter.

People inspect damage after an Israeli strike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Dec. 4, 2023. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua)

"Amid constant bombardment by the Israel Defense Forces, and without shelter or the essentials to survive, I expect public order to completely break down soon due to the desperate conditions, rendering even limited humanitarian assistance impossible. An even worse situation could unfold, including epidemic diseases and increased pressure for mass displacement into neighboring countries," warns Guterres.

The current conditions are making it impossible for meaningful humanitarian operations to be conducted. While delivery of supplies through the Rafah border crossing continues, quantities are insufficient and have dropped since the humanitarian pause came to an end, he says in the letter. "We are simply unable to reach those in need inside Gaza. The capacity of the United Nations and its humanitarian partners has been decimated by supply shortages, lack of fuel, interrupted communications, and growing insecurity. Humanitarian personnel have joined the vast majority of Gazan civilians in evacuating to south Gaza ahead of advancing military operations."

At least 130 workers of the UN Agency for Palestine Refugees have been killed, many with their families, since Oct. 7, says the UN chief.

"We are facing a severe risk of collapse of the humanitarian system. The situation is fast deteriorating into a catastrophe with potentially irreversible implications for Palestinians as a whole and for peace and security in the region. Such an outcome must be avoided at all cost," he says. 
LUSAKA, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on Tuesday visited a mine where a number of miners have been trapped since last Wednesday after the tunnels they were working in collapsed due to heavy flooding.

Hichilema flew to the Senseli open pit mine, located in Chingola town in the Copperbelt Province, for an on-the-spot check.

Addressing family members of the over 30 miners suspected to have been trapped and residents after visiting the site, the president said some of the trapped people may still be found alive.

"Let us work together to retrieve our colleagues. Our job now is to work with great speed, work in an orderly manner," he said.

The president praised the rescue work, pledged more food and other necessities for the operation, and announced the establishment of a command office to coordinate the rescue efforts.

He said the government will discuss with stakeholders how to ensure the safe operation of mines to avoid similar accidents in the future.

The rescue has been hampered by water and mud following heavy rains. 
KIGALI, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Rwanda and Britain have signed a new treaty that will enable London to send asylum-seekers to the east African country.

Britain's Home Secretary James Cleverly and Rwandan Foreign Minister Vincent Biruta signed the agreement on Tuesday in Kigali, the Rwandan capital.

The development seeks to unblock a decision of Britain's Supreme Court that ruled last month that the government's plan to send some migrants to Rwanda was unlawful.

After the signing, Cleverly said the "landmark treaty with Rwanda makes it clear we will do whatever it takes to stop the boats," a reference to vessels bringing in refugees and asylum-seekers.

"We are clear that Rwanda is a safe country, and we are working at pace to move forward with this partnership to stop the boats and save lives," he said.

Under the new treaty, a new appeals tribunal will be established under Rwandan law and overseen by two co-presidents, one Rwandan and one drawn from another Commonwealth country.

A panel of judges of various nationalities will also be set up to hear appeals in the event an applicant's asylum claim is turned down.

The Rwandan government said: "This partnership also reflects Rwanda's commitment to protecting vulnerable people. We have a proven record of offering a home to migrants and refugees from around the world."

Anyone coming to Rwanda under the new treaty will be welcomed and given the safety and support they need to build new lives in the country, it said in a statement.

In April 2022, London and Kigali signed a deal to facilitate sending some migrants who arrive in Britain across the English Channel to Rwanda, where their asylum claims would be processed.

That deal, formally called the Rwanda-UK Migration and Economic Development Partnership initiative, was blocked by Britain's Supreme Court last month.

Britain offered an upfront investment of 120 million pounds (149.5 million U.S. dollars) to facilitate the implementation of the five-year agreement. 
Chinese Ambassador to Egypt Liao Liqiang (4th L, back) , Secretary-General of Egypt's Homat Al Watan Party Tariq Naseer (3rd L, back) and other guests pose for a group photo with students during a donation ceremony held at the Al-Asmarat District's service center in the Cairo Governorate, Egypt, Dec. 5, 2023. The Chinese Embassy in Egypt, in cooperation with the pro-government Egyptian political party of Homat Al Watan (the Protectors of the Nation), has donated school materials to students in need in Cairo. (Xinhua/Sui Xiankai)

CAIRO, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Embassy in Egypt, in cooperation with the pro-government Egyptian political party of Homat Al Watan (the Protectors of the Nation), has donated school materials to students in need in Cairo.

About 400 sets of school bags and stationery were handed over Tuesday to students at a donation ceremony held at the Al-Asmarat District's service center in the Cairo Governorate.

The event was attended by Chinese Ambassador to Egypt Liao Liqiang, Secretary-General of Egypt's Homat Al Watan Party Tariq Naseer, and Al-Asmarat district head Ahmed Ibrahim.

At the ceremony, Liao said the donation aims to express support for a shantytown renovation project launched by Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, and to promote the friendship between the two peoples.

For his part, Nasser extended his party's appreciation to the Chinese side for supporting Egypt's livelihood improvement projects. The donation is a manifestation of Egypt-China friendship, he noted.

Expressing gratitude to the Chinese embassy, Ibrahim said his district launched the first shantytown renovation project under Sisi's Decent Life Initiative.

The initiative was launched in 2019 to provide a decent life for the most vulnerable groups nationwide. It further contributes to enhancing the quality of daily public services provided to citizens, as well as residents in rural areas. 

Students attend a donation ceremony held at the Al-Asmarat District's service center in the Cairo Governorate, Egypt, Dec. 5, 2023. The Chinese Embassy in Egypt, in cooperation with the pro-government Egyptian political party of Homat Al Watan (the Protectors of the Nation), has donated school materials to students in need in Cairo. (Xinhua/Sui Xiankai)

Secretary-General of Egypt's Homat Al Watan Party Tariq Naseer speaks at a donation ceremony held at the Al-Asmarat District's service center in the Cairo Governorate, Egypt, Dec. 5, 2023. The Chinese Embassy in Egypt, in cooperation with the pro-government Egyptian political party of Homat Al Watan (the Protectors of the Nation), has donated school materials to students in need in Cairo. (Xinhua/Sui Xiankai)

Students look at school bags and stationery donated by the Chinese Embassy in Egypt during a donation ceremony held at the Al-Asmarat District's service center in the Cairo Governorate, Egypt, Dec. 5, 2023. The Chinese Embassy in Egypt, in cooperation with the pro-government Egyptian political party of Homat Al Watan (the Protectors of the Nation), has donated school materials to students in need in Cairo. (Xinhua/Sui Xiankai)
Abbas Ganbay

Armenia and Iran are working on a project to build a new bridge across the Araz River, Azernews reports.

Armenian Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Kristina Ghalechyan said that experts are now conducting a feasibility study for the subsequent design of the bridge,

It is not excluded that the new bridge will be built parallel to the functioning one.

As for the construction of the southernmost section of the North-South Highway - from Agarak bordering Iran to the city of Qajaran (32 km), Ghalechyan noted that, in all probability, the active phase of work will start in February 2024.

To remind you, the southernmost section of the North-South Highway is being built by an Iranian consortium of Abad Rahan Pars and Tunel Sad Ariana companies. The contract was signed in Yerevan in October 2023. At that time it was decided to form an Armenia-Iran working group for the construction of another border bridge on the Araz River.
This photo taken on Dec. 5, 2023 shows plantains in Limbe, Cameroon. TO GO WITH "Feature: Cameroon aspires to become leading plantain producer" (Photo by Muleng Timngum/Xinhua)

by Arison Tamfu

YAOUNDE, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- With his muddied bare feet and machete in hand, Ferdinand Tatah trudged down the hillside to his plantain plantation in Idenau, a coastal town in southwestern Cameroon.

He chose and cut several giant bunches of plantains, which will be transported to Cameroon's commercial hub of Douala, to be weighed, graded and sold.

"This is my life. I do this every day. I was born into plantain farming," said the 50-year-old father of five.

A stretch of favorable weather has led to a bumper crop for Tatah and many others in the central African nation where many people, buffeted by a difficult economy, are turning to farming to make ends meet.

"Farming has never failed anyone. That is why I have invested much in this -- my two-hectare plantain farm," Tatah said as he strolled through his farm.

The plantain, a savory variety of bananas, plays a crucial role in Cameroon's food security. It is considered one of the staple foods and a reliable source of starch for many. It can be boiled, fried, and roasted.

According to Cameroon's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, plantains account for 16 percent of farmers' income and 4.3 percent of Cameroon's agricultural gross domestic product (GDP).

Plantain output in the country is estimated at over 5.4 million tonnes a year.

Cameroon wants to become the world's leading producer of the crop by 2030, with an annual production of 10 million tonnes, to strengthen and preserve national food security and increase farmers' income, said Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Gabriel Mbairobe.

"Cameroon's desire to become an emerging country by 2035, depends on the development of production, processing and distribution activities for our various agricultural and pastoral products which offer real employment and wealth opportunities for our population," Mbairobe said. "The government is determined to support the plantain industry in various ways."

The country, in collaboration with the African Development Bank, is working to establish a plantain processing plant in Bangem, in the Southwest region, the first-ever in the region that produces over 30 percent of the country's plantains.

"This plant will facilitate the production of three tonnes of plantains per day," Mbairobe said.

Mbairobe spoke to Xinhua recently in the seaside resort town of Limbe, which hosted the second edition of the International Plantains Festival.

Tatah brought several bunches of plantains to exhibit at the festival.

"For us farmers, this is a rare opportunity to show the world our products and to look for new buyers and partners," he said.

Samuel Tony Obam Bikoue, heads the National Association of Actors of the Banana-Plantain Sector in Cameroon, which organized the festival.

Farmers will benefit from high-quality fertilizer and capacity-building on production, packaging and transport techniques, he said.

"That will lead to high yields, which will be able to respond to ever-increasing local and international demand," Bikoue said.

The festival witnessed the signing of agreements with three firms.

One of the agreements, signed with CAMAGRI, an agricultural company, will allow for the application of drones in plantain cultivation.

"With 10 people in 10 days, you can spray or fertilize the field. Now you can use only two people in three days using the drone," said Murat Kimick, who signed on behalf of CAMAGRI. "When pests are on the field, if you are fast (in spraying insecticide) they cannot destroy much, but if you are slow, you will lose the crops. So with us using the drone, we are going to kill (the) pests before they start destruction."

Tatah hopes that the government will do more to help farmers like him move their produce to the market.

"Most of these plantains are being transported by motorcycles, and it is really difficult because of bad roads," he said. "The roads are really bad."

Mbairboe acknowledged that it was "a real problem" that would be addressed "as soon as possible."

Agricultural production is a priority of the national push to modernize the economic and productive system, and there is no turning back in Cameroon's drive to boost plantain production, the minister said. 

This photo taken on Dec. 5, 2023 shows plantains in Limbe, Cameroon. TO GO WITH "Feature: Cameroon aspires to become leading plantain producer" (Photo by Muleng Timngum/Xinhua)
ADDIS ABABA, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat strongly condemns the violence in Guinea-Bissau, perpetrated by elements of the National Guard, said an AU statement on Tuesday.

He expressed his concern over the dissolution of the West African country's National Assembly, and called on the country's government and all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue in the furtherance of peace and to respect the constitution to ensure the preservation of stability and unity of the country.

"The chairperson continues to closely monitor developments in the country and reiterates the African Union's support to the people and government of Guinea-Bissau," the statement said.

Clashes erupted between elements of the National Guard and special forces of the Presidential Guard in Bissau, the capital of the country, on Thursday night, and continued Friday as a group of National Guard soldiers attempted to free a detained minister from the judicial police building. 
MANILA, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) said on Wednesday that it has approved a 250 million U.S. dollars loan to improve Indonesia's flood management capacity.

The Manila-based bank said the financial project will help reduce flood risk in the northern coastal area of Java island and strengthen the local community's socioeconomic resilience.

With an increasing population and assets in low-lying areas, Indonesia, particularly the northern coastal area of Java island which is a strategic economic corridor, is highly vulnerable to flooding and climate change, said ADB.

The project aims to operationalize flood risk management in the Cimanuk-Cisanggarung river basin territory in West Java and Central Java. It will help reduce the risk of flooding to 485,000 people, of which 200,000 are poor and vulnerable, as well as damages to crops and assets.

The project will also help reduce the exposure of economic centers to flood risks and traffic disruptions on the main road connecting Jakarta to East Java, ultimately benefiting the local and national economies, the multilateral lender added. 
JAKARTA, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Three people were killed after the car they were traveling in was hit by a local train in Indonesia's Lampung.

North Lampung Police Chief, Grand Commissioner Adjutant Teddy Rachesna, said the sedan continued to cross the road when the train passed on Tuesday night, even though an officer had given them a warning.

"The sedan was dragged hundreds of meters and all the passengers in the car died, including the driver," said Rachesna on Wednesday.

The victims were identified as workers on an oil palm plantation, according to the police chief. 
CANBERRA, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- The sex of great white sharks is determined by genetics rather than environmental factors, Australian research has found.

In a study published on Wednesday, a team from national science agency the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) discovered that, like humans, great white sharks have X and Y sex chromosomes.

The discovery led to the team developing a new polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test that can be used in labs to identify the sex of a white shark from a tissue biopsy.

Floriaan Devloo-Delva, a postdoctoral research fellow at the CSIRO's Australian National Fish Collection, said in a media release that the team used a statistical method to search DNA data for sex chromosomes in a large sample of great white sharks.

"We discovered that sex determination in the White Shark is driven by genetics, not by temperature like in crocodiles or turtles," he said.

"Our study showed that the White Shark has X and Y sex chromosomes. Males are XY and females are XX.

"This knowledge reveals more about the biology and population ecology of White Sharks, and will help management agencies better understand the species."

Despite being an apex predator, the great white shark is listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with the species' population in decline globally.

Devloo-Delva said that the new PCR test would be particularly helpful for identifying the sex of juvenile sharks that have not yet developed external sex organs, allowing for greater monitoring and conservation efforts. 
CANBERRA, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- A new telescope in Australia's capital city will enable communication with astronauts from the moon to deep space.

Officially opened on Wednesday, the Australian National University's Quantum Optical Ground Station uses adaptive optical technology and lasers to send and receive data from space, allowing for communication with, and filming of, the next generation of crewed space missions.

Based at the Australian National University (ANU) Mount Stromlo Observatory in Canberra's west, the station will also drive research on advanced communication technologies.

"It's a world-first, in terms of next-generation capability for global communications," Anna Moore, Director of the ANU Institute for Space, told state media the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

The station was built with support from the government of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and the Australian Space Agency's Moon to Mars initiative.

Andrew Barr, the chief minister of the ACT, told the online publication Canberra Daily that the facility would give the Australian space industry a competitive advantage and help attract talent worldwide.

"Canberra has the capabilities to support space industry success and to take advantage of the enormous investment being made globally in space, through our growing knowledge economy," he said.

The station will also be able to download high-fidelity fire load estimation data for all of Australia, allowing authorities to better prepare for bushfires 20 years after the Mount Stromlo Observatory was destroyed in the 2003 Canberra bushfires before being rebuilt. 
BUDAPEST, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) should pursue peaceful economic cooperation with China and avoid decoupling from the world's second largest economy, a Hungarian expert told Xinhua in an interview.

Decoupling from China would be a "mistake" that would harm both the EU and China, Zoltan Kiszelly, director of the Center of Political Analyses at Hungary's Szazadveg Institute, said. China is one of the EU's largest trading partners, and bilateral trade has grown rapidly in recent years.

"As China is the biggest single market for the EU, it should appreciate this partner and should not repeat the mistake of ill-considered and self-harming sanctions on Russia," Kiszelly said.

Kiszelly's comments come amid growing tensions between the EU and China. The EU has been criticizing China's economic practices, talking of "decoupling" or "de-risking," and has decided to launch an anti-subsidy probe into Chinese-made electric vehicles.

Despite these tensions, Kiszelly said that the EU should continue to engage with China. "Cooperation between the EU and China has made these two poles of the world economy one another's biggest trading partners," Kiszelly said, reflecting on the 20th anniversary of the China-EU comprehensive strategic partnership.

A recent survey conducted by Hungary's Szazadveg Foundation revealed that 48 percent of Europeans favored maintaining economic and trade relations with China, Kiszelly said.

He said that this opinion resonated with a significant majority across two-thirds of the European countries surveyed, advocating for peaceful economic cooperation with China rather than harsher measures.

The survey also found that Hungarians are more likely than Europeans in general to view China favorably.

Hungary has close economic ties with China and has been a vocal supporter of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative.

Regarding Hungary's stance on cooperation with China, Kiszelly said Prime Minister Viktor Orban is endorsing a policy of connectivity, promoting mutually beneficial economic and manufacturing partnerships between European and Chinese companies.

The collaboration between Germany's high-end car manufacturers and Chinese car suppliers, both present in Hungary, exemplifies that China and the EU companies benefit from such alliances, he said.

The upcoming EU-China Summit, the first face-to-face meeting between the two sides' leaders in four years, is a "good opportunity to build back trust and to clear up misunderstandings," Kiszelly said.

Future cooperation between China and the EU can be strengthened in the high value-added domains, such as telecommunications, digital equipment and the automotive industry, he said, adding that both sides had "common interests" in fighting climate change. 
KIEV, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Dutch Foreign Minister Hanke Bruins Slot on Tuesday met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, pledging further support for Ukraine's efforts toward integration into the European Union (EU).

After the talks with Kuleba, Slot said that Kiev made progress in the EU-required reforms and voiced support for launching membership talks between Ukraine and the bloc.

"We have a positive attitude to the recommendations of the European Commission regarding the opening of membership negotiations with Ukraine, because your future is with us," Slot was quoted as saying by the Interfax-Ukraine news agency.

The Netherlands will stand with Ukraine "throughout the entire process," Slot said, noting that her country plans to provide 2.5 billion euros (about 2.7 billion U.S. dollars) in support for Kiev next year.

During the talks with Zelensky, Slot discussed the preparations for the December meeting of the European Council, which would decide on whether to open the accession talks with Ukraine.

Zelensky and Slot also discussed the situation on the frontline in Ukraine, the functioning of the alternative "grain corridor," the reinforcement of Ukraine's air defense, as well as the training of Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets with the support of the Netherlands.

Last month, the European Commission recommended the European Council launch accession negotiations with Ukraine and adopt negotiating frameworks once Ukraine has adopted specific key measures.

The European Council is set to decide on opening negotiations on accession with Ukraine at the EU summit on Dec. 14-15. 
Are you dreaming of a fantastic New Year's celebration but worried about the dent it might make in your wallet? Fret not! We've curated a list of countries where you can welcome the New Year with open arms without burning a hole in your pocket. Let's delve deeper into these budget-friendly destinations that promise a memorable start to the upcoming year.

1. Vietnam: A Tapestry of Traditions on a Budget

Vietnam, a country steeped in history and cultural richness, offers an affordable yet enchanting New Year's experience. The combination of bustling cities and serene landscapes provides a perfect backdrop for welcoming the New Year without the burden of excessive expenses.

1.1. Hanoi Street Parties: Where the Magic Unfolds

Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, transforms its streets into lively hubs of celebration during the New Year. Locals and tourists alike join together in these street parties, creating a jubilant atmosphere. The best part? You can revel in the festive spirit without worrying about extravagant expenses. The streets come alive with music, dance, and traditional performances, providing a unique and budget-friendly experience.

1.2. Budget-Friendly Accommodations: Rest Easy on Your Wallet

Vietnam offers a plethora of budget-friendly accommodations that don't compromise on comfort. From charming guesthouses to affordable hostels, you can find lodging that suits your budget without sacrificing the essence of Vietnamese hospitality. Rest easy after the celebrations knowing that your accommodation costs won't leave a significant dent in your wallet.

2. Mexico: Fiesta Time Without Financial Fiasco

If you're seeking a New Year's celebration that combines rich traditions with an affordable fiesta, Mexico should be at the top of your list. From the heartwarming hospitality of its people to the vibrant colors of its celebrations, Mexico offers a budget-friendly escape into a world of festivities.

2.1. Zocalo Celebrations: A Grand Affair

Mexico City's Zocalo square is the epicenter of New Year's Eve celebrations. The square transforms into a grand stage for free concerts, spectacular fireworks, and a jubilant atmosphere that captures the spirit of the nation. Join the crowds and immerse yourself in the joyous revelry without worrying about the costs associated with high-profile events.

2.2. Affordable Eateries: Savor the Flavor Without Emptying Your Wallet

Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine at local eateries where prices are reasonable, and the flavors are exceptional. From street tacos to traditional delicacies, you can satisfy your culinary cravings without compromising your budget. Discover the richness of Mexican flavors without the financial strain often associated with upscale dining.

3. Portugal: Coastal Charm on a Shoestring Budget

Portugal, with its breathtaking coastal beauty and historic charm, provides a budget-friendly New Year's getaway. From the bustling city of Lisbon to the serene beaches of the Algarve, Portugal offers diverse experiences that won't break the bank.

3.1. Lisbon's Riverside Revelry: A Budget-Friendly Spectacle

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, invites you to join the New Year's Eve celebrations along the Tagus River. The Riverside Revelry features free concerts, mesmerizing fireworks, and a festive atmosphere that rivals any high-end celebration. Enjoy the spectacle without the need for an extravagant budget.

3.2. Hostel Havens: Comfortable Stays Without Draining Your Funds

Portugal boasts an array of hostels that provide cozy accommodations at affordable prices. Rest easy after the celebrations knowing that you've found a comfortable and budget-friendly place to stay. Experience Portuguese hospitality without the hefty price tag often associated with accommodations in popular tourist destinations.

4. Thailand: Exotic Celebrations on a Budget

Thailand's exotic culture, stunning beaches, and lively street celebrations make it an ideal destination for a budget-friendly New Year's getaway. From the bustling city of Bangkok to the tranquil islands, Thailand offers a diverse range of experiences without the need for a lavish budget.

4.1. Bangkok's Countdown Extravaganza: Thrills Without the Bills

Experience the electrifying atmosphere of Bangkok's Countdown Extravaganza. The city comes alive with music, lights, and a festive spirit that won't dent your finances. Join the locals and fellow travelers in celebrating the New Year without the need for expensive tickets or exclusive events.

4.2. Street Food Delights: Satisfy Your Cravings Economically

One of the highlights of Thailand is its renowned street food. Indulge in a variety of flavors at affordable prices as you explore the local street markets. From Pad Thai to Mango Sticky Rice, the street food scene in Thailand allows you to savor the country's culinary delights without compromising your budget.

5. Poland: Cultural Riches at a Modest Cost

Poland, with its rich history and vibrant traditions, provides an affordable New Year's experience immersed in culture and charm. Whether you choose to explore the historical streets of Warsaw or venture into the picturesque countryside, Poland offers a budget-friendly celebration.

5.1. Warsaw's Royal Route: A Majestic Celebration on a Budget

Join the celebrations along Warsaw's Royal Route, where live performances and fireworks create a majestic ambiance. The historical significance of the location adds an extra layer of charm to the festivities, and the best part is that you can enjoy it without spending royally.

5.2. Wallet-Friendly Cultural Exploration: Museums and More

Poland's cultural gems, including museums and historic sites, are often budget-friendly or even free to enter. Immerse yourself in the country's rich heritage without worrying about exorbitant entrance fees. Explore the cultural richness of Poland without straining your travel budget.

6. South Africa: Nature's Bounty Without the Burden

For an affordable New Year's celebration surrounded by nature's wonders, South Africa offers a diverse range of experiences that won't break the bank. From the bustling city life in Cape Town to the wildlife wonders of national parks, South Africa caters to budget-conscious travelers.

6.1. Cape Town's Beachside Bliss: Coastal Celebrations on a Budget

Cape Town, with its stunning beaches and iconic Table Mountain, provides a picturesque setting for New Year's Eve celebrations. Join the beachside festivities and enjoy the fireworks without spending extravagantly. Cape Town's natural beauty becomes the backdrop for a budget-friendly celebration.

6.2. Budget-Friendly Safaris: Wildlife Adventures on a Dime

Explore South Africa's national parks on budget-friendly safaris. Witness the beauty of wildlife without exceeding your travel budget. Many parks offer affordable entrance fees and accommodation options, allowing you to experience the thrill of a safari without breaking the bank.

A Budget-Friendly New Year Beckons

Embrace the upcoming year without worrying about your finances by choosing one of these budget-friendly destinations. Whether you're drawn to the cultural richness of Vietnam, the coastal charm of Portugal, or the exotic celebrations in Thailand, these destinations offer a memorable New Year's experience without a hefty price tag.

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DataVolt, a unit of Saudi-based investment holding company Vision Invest, has reached an agreement with Uzbekistan for setting up sustainable data centers in the country and making it the first fully renewable data centre campus in the region.

Vision Invest group has developed and owns and operates over $95 billion worth of critical infrastructure assets, including in renewable power generation, seawater desalination, green hydrogen, cooling, and water treatment and reusage.

With a presence spanning Riyadh, Dubai, and California, DataVolt is a major player in development and operation of future-ready, innovative, environmentally conscious data centres for a connected world.

An Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Ministry of Digital Technologies, the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan and DataVolt to develop green data centers in Uzbekistan.

It is aimed at supporting Uzbekistans goal of becoming a sustainable digital hub, focusing on the digital transformation of the country, the development of innovative digital technologies and attracting foreign investment into the IT sphere.

As per the deal, DataVolt will develop, invest and operate state-of-the-art data centers and make it the first fully renewable large data center campus in the region, which could eventually consist of several 100s of MW. The data centers will focus on high efficiency, innovation and sustainability solutions.

DataVolt CEO Rajit Nanda said: "We are excited to support the digitization of Uzbekistan with innovative and sustainable solutions. In line with Uzbekistans sustainability goals, we target to build data centers with the lowest carbon emissions."

Both parties will cooperate to attract international technology companies to Uzbekistan and to develop relevant skills and expertise among the Uzbek workforce, he stated.

Moreover, the Ministry of Digital Technologies and DataVolt emphasized the quality of the various outsourcing skills of the Uzbekistan workforce and the importance of cultivating Uzbekistan as an IT hub with Saudi companies.

"We believe that this project will have a positive impact on the Uzbek economy and people and help to make Uzbekistan a digital leader in the region," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
In this article, we will look at the 15 countries with the highest social mobility in the world. We will also discuss the social mobility efforts of some companies. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, head straight to the 5 Countries With the Highest Social Mobility in the World.

Social mobility refers to the ability of individuals to move up or down the socio-economic ladder within a society. Countries with high social mobility, like the Nordic nations (e.g., Denmark, Norway, Sweden), exhibit low-income inequality, strong education systems, and comprehensive social welfare programs. These countries prioritize equal opportunities, which promote upward mobility.

Conversely, social mobility in the US compared to other countries is low as the US often faces greater income inequality, limited access to quality education, and barriers to economic growth. It is worth mentioning that Pakistan, Cameroon, and Senegal are some countries with the lowest social mobility in the world.

Raj Chetty, an economist, recently talked about how hard it is for people in the United States to move up the economic ladder. His research shows that if someone was born in the 1980s or 1990s, they only have a 50/50 chance of doing better financially than their parents. His research also found that there could have been four times as many inventors in the US if everyone had the same opportunities, no matter their background. This means that because of inequality, the US might be missing out on a lot of great ideas and inventions.

Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:AMZN) actively fosters social mobility in the UK through various initiatives. As the Gold Partner of the 2022 UK Social Mobility Awards, Amazon.com, Inc (NASDAQ:AMZN) recognizes and celebrates efforts to improve social mobility. The company has launched the UK Social Mobility employee resource group, providing a platform for employees to share success stories and challenges. Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:AMZN)s commitment extends to shaping Levelling Up Goals, a 14-point framework addressing social mobility challenges. The company's Levelling Up Impact Report details its community and infrastructure development contributions, focusing on education and upskilling initiatives.

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Such initiatives also explain why Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:AMZN) has been recognized as one of the top 75 employers in the UK for promoting social mobility in 2023. The Social Mobility Employer Index evaluates companies in eight areas, focusing on efforts like engaging with underserved communities and creating pathways for career growth. Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:AMZN)s apprenticeship program, with an 85% success rate, and initiatives like The JOBS Project and Career Choice, confirms their dedication to creating a fairer society through opportunities for progression.

On the other hand, Chegg Inc (NYSE:CHGG) has also been active in promoting social mobility through its multifaceted approach to education and community impact. One major aspect is its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, as evidenced by its engagement in initiatives like the Global Day of Impact. With Chegg Inc (NYSE:CHGG) volunteers contributing over 1,500 hours to mentoring students, the company actively provides an environment that goes beyond traditional learning, that focuses on personal development and community outreach.

Moreover, Chegg Inc (NYSE:CHGG)s partnership with 30 organizations, with initiatives like delivering free coding camps through Kode with Klossy, also serves as an example to how the company is improving access to education and supporting learners' needs. The company's impact is further validated by its learner outcomes, with 90% of surveyed users reporting improved understanding of academic concepts and 91% achieving better grades. By prioritizing initiatives beyond the classroom, Chegg Inc (NYSE:CHGG) actively contributes to social mobility by empowering students with the tools, resources, and mentorship needed to succeed academically and professionally.

15 Countries With Highest Social Mobility in the World

A busy city street with tall buildings and a crowd of people in business attire.

Methodology

To list the countries with the highest social mobility in the world, we have taken two different metrics to assess social mobility by country in 2023. Firstly, we have looked at the World Economic Forums Global Social Mobility Index of 2020 and obtained the list of countries with the highest social mobility scores. Secondly, we used our list of the most egalitarian countries in the world. The idea is that the more egalitarian a country is, the less structural and systemic barriers there are to social mobility within the country.

We then took the rankings of each country from both these lists and averaged them and then ranked our final list based on those average rankings. The list of those average ranks is presented in descending order.

Please note that in the case of similar average ranks, a country with a higher social mobility index ranking was ranked higher.

Here is a list of the countries with the highest social mobility in the world.

15. New Zealand

Egalitarianism: 11

SM Index: 22

Average Rank: 16.5

In New Zealand, the recent achievement of the lowest-ever gender pay gap in the public service, at 7.1%, reflects the countrys ambitious commitment to fostering social mobility. The decline of 5.1 percentage points since the introduction of the 2018 Gender Pay Gap Action Plan confirms tangible progress. Additionally, New Zealand is a global leader in women's representation in top public service roles, with 53.5% holding such positions which is way above the OECD average.

14. Ireland

Egalitarianism: 10

SM Index: 18

Average Rank: 14

In Ireland, the importance of education in promoting social mobility has been further emphasized at a conference hosted by Matheson LLP and Trinity College Dublin. The annual Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) conference brought together leaders from different sectors, disclosing that two-thirds of organizations have integrated social mobility into their D&I strategies. Educational programs, like Transition Year initiatives, Third Level access programs, and scholarships, were highlighted as active measures promoting social mobility.

13. Canada

Egalitarianism: 12

SM Index: 14

Average Rank: 13

A survey by the Angus Reid Institute and the University of Alberta reveals that 42% of Canadians identify themselves as middle class, while 17% each align with working, lower middle, and upper middle classes. Interestingly, only 1% see themselves as upper class. Despite 59% focusing on hard work as crucial for success, 35% believe their class remained static across generations. However, social class mobility is evident as 35% of citizens have achieved a higher status than their parents.

Canada is one of the most socially advanced countries in the world.

12. Luxembourg

Egalitarianism: 15

SM Index: 10

Average Rank: 12.5

Luxembourg made headlines by making all public transport free in 2020, aiming to reshape mobility habits and promote environmental sustainability. Deputy Prime Minister Francois Bausch mentioned how the decision will serve as a catalyst for societal change. Luxembourg is one of the countries with the highest social mobility in the world.

11. Australia

Egalitarianism: 8

SM Index: 16

Average Rank: 12

While Australia has a high social mobility, it is lagging behind when it comes to economic mobility. Treasury research reveals that children born into the poorest households face a limited chance of upward mobility, with only a 10% probability of becoming top-income earners in their lifetime. The study found that those in the bottom fifth of households have a 12.3% chance of reaching the top fifth, a figure 60% higher than in the United States.

10. Belgium

Egalitarianism: 16

SM Index: 8

Average Rank: 12

In an effort to improve social mobility in Belgium, the European Commission is allocating 2.8 million ($3.02 million) from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund to help 421 workers dismissed by Makro Cash & Carry. Following the retail chain's bankruptcy in January 2023, the support package included job search assistance, skills training, and guidance for potential entrepreneurs. Belgium is one of the countries with the highest upwork social mobility in the world.

9. Austria

Egalitarianism: 14

SM Index: 9

Average Rank: 11.5

In Austria, recent social policy developments aim to improve social mobility. The long-anticipated reform of long-term care addresses training, working conditions, and financial support for caring relatives. Despite falling short on structural challenges, this reform promises progress. Austria is also one of the most egalitarian countries in the world.

8. Germany

Egalitarianism: 9

SM Index: 11

Average Rank: 10

In Germany, children born to wealthier parents are about 50% more likely to graduate high school (Abitur) than those born to less wealthy parents. This gap has stayed the same for recent generations despite more children getting the chance for higher education. Interestingly, social mobility varies a lot across different regions in Germany. Even within states, some areas show higher chances for upward mobility than others. This suggests that where you grow up in Germany can largely impact your opportunities.

7. Switzerland

Egalitarianism: 5

SM Index: 7

Average Rank: 6

Switzerland consistently makes progress in promoting social mobility, especially in education. The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) reported that the country excels in providing equal opportunities for students from different backgrounds. Swiss students had more chances for upward educational mobility compared to the OECD average.

On a side note, Switzerland is one of the best countries to work and make money.

6. Netherlands

Egalitarianism: 6

SM Index: 6

Average Rank: 6

The recent agreement between Dutch banks and the central bank to simplify the process of opening business accounts for sex workers is a noteworthy step toward improving social mobility. By providing sex workers with easier access to financial services, this initiative contributes to reducing barriers that may hinder their economic mobility. Enhanced financial inclusion fosters social mobility by enabling individuals, including those in marginalized professions, to manage their finances more effectively and participate more fully in economic activities, thereby promoting upward social and economic mobility.

Click here to see the 5 Countries With the Highest Social Mobility in the World.

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Disclosure: None. 15 Countries With the Highest Social Mobility in the World is originally published on Insider Monkey.
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Everyone has to file taxes, not everyone does it right. What might seem like a small tax mistake can result in major financial woes.

Next: 7 Tax Mistakes People Almost Always Regret

More: What To Do If You Owe Back Taxes to the IRS

Tax season is around the corner, so its important to be educated. Heres a look at a few costly tax mishaps you dont want to make.

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5 Tax Blunders That Can Leave You Broke

Failing to Report All of Your Income

The IRS wants to know about all of your income.

Taxpayers will occasionally sell their primary residence but do not report the income, believing that its not taxable, said Brad Paladini, tax attorney and owner of Paladini Law, a tax law firm. While that may be true, the income still needs to be reported.

If youre eligible, he said some or all of the gain can be excluded from taxes, but you still need to report it on your return. He said his law firm also frequently sees taxpayers who use PayPal to fund online gambling activities.

Theyll then use the same PayPal account to withdraw any winnings, he said. Unfortunately, both PayPal and the gambling website report income under the taxpayers Social Security number, but the taxpayer only reports the income from the gambling site.

The IRS will send the taxpayer a CP2000 stating that theres additional income missing from the return, due to earnings from a PayPal account, he said. It can be quite a process to get corrected and get the IRS to understand the money is being double counted.

IRS Collection Notices: 4% of Americans Fear Catastrophic Financial Stress

Not Keeping Good Records

Taxpayers need to keep receipts for all expenses they are deducting, Paladini said. They cant rely solely on a credit card statement or bank statement.

For example, he said business owners sometimes purchase company supplies from Walmart or Costco.

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Theyll have the credit card [statement] showing the expense was paid, but fail to keep the receipt, he said. If they are selected for audit, the IRS will not allow the expense because they dont know if the taxpayer was purchasing supplies at the store or buying a new television for their house.

Failing to Pay Your Taxes

Taxpayers dont understand the difference between the filing deadline and the payment deadline, Paladini said. For 1040 filers, the deadline to file the return and pay the tax is usually April 15.

He said you can file an extension of the time to file your return, but this isnt an extension of time to pay your taxes.

Any tax owed is still due April 15, even if they have until Oct. 15 to file the return, he said. Every month the payment is late, taxpayers are charged interest and a failure to pay penalty of 0.5 percent per month.

Failing to File a Tax Return

No matter what, always file your tax return.

Some taxpayers decide not to file a tax return, if they do not have enough money to pay the taxes due, said Mark Luscombe, principal Analyst for Wolters Kluwers Tax and Accounting Division, North America. This can result in not only owing the taxes, but also being subject to interest charges, a failure to file penalty and a failure to pay penalty.

Not Taking Required Minimum Distributions

Taxpayers sometimes forget to take Required Minimum Distributions from their IRAs or 401(k)s.

This can result in a penalty of 25% of the amount that was not taken, he said. It can be reduced to 10% if corrective action is taken quickly.

If this seems like a lot, he said its actually better than last years rate, which was a 50% penalty.

What To Do If You Owe Tax Debt

If you owe money to the IRS that you dont have, youre not alone. In Fiscal Year 2022, returns filed with additional taxes due had a gross total yield of $98.4 million from unpaid assessments, according to the IRS, very top number on the 2022 spreadsheet).

Hiring a debt relief company to assist with your tax debt can be a good idea. Since these professionals do this for a living, they should be able to help you find the best way to settle your debt, and they can often help reduce the total amount you pay. Some tax resolution companies, such as Tax Relief Advocates, will offer a free consultation to go over your situation.

You might be tempted to try to ignore this tax debt and pretend it isnt there, but dont. Instead, use this advice to handle the situation the right way.

File a Return

As noted above, you always need to file a tax return. File your return by the deadline and pay as much as you can. The more you pay, the less youll owe in interest and penalties(4).

Request a Short-Term Extension to Pay

If your total debt is less than $100,000 in combined tax, penalties and interest, you can apply for a short-term payment plan. Simply complete the online application on the IRS website and youll be notified immediately if youre approved. If so, youll have 180 days to pay your balance in full.

Request an Installment Agreement

Otherwise known as a long-term payment plan, you may qualify for an installment agreement if your total balance  combined tax, penalties and interest  is less than $50,000. Under this option, youll have 72 months to settle your tax debt.

Apply for an Offer in Compromise

If youre truly unable to pay your tax debt or doing so will create a financial hardship, you can apply for an offer in compromise. If your application is accepted, this will allow you to settle your tax debt for less than the full amount owed.

Youre eligible to apply if youve filed all required tax payments and made all required estimated payments, arent in open bankruptcy proceedings, have a valid extension for a current year return  if applying for a current year  or an employer that has made tax deposits for the current and past two quarters.

Do note, only 37% of offer in compromise applications were accepted in Fiscal Year 2022. Therefore, its probably best to carefully weigh your likelihood of acceptance before submitting an application.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Tax Blunders That Can Leave You Broke
A stock photo shows a woman using a smartphone. Getty Images

US Sen. Ron Wyden wants to know if foreign governments are compelling Apple and Google to let them monitor users' activity.

Wyden said his office got a tip last year that foreign officials were demanding data.

Apple said the US government barred it from revealing this practice.

Apple and Google won't reveal if foreign government officials have compelled them to share some users' push notification data to aid in investigations into people of interest, a US lawmaker said.

"I write to urge the Department of Justice (DOJ) to permit Apple and Google to inform their customers and the general public about demands for smartphone app notification records," Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden said in a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland this week.

Wyden said his office got a tip last year that foreign government agencies were demanding push notification data from the two tech giants.

But when Wyden's office contacted the companies, they said the US government had "restricted" them from revealing "information about this practice" to the public, the letter said.

Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment. But the company told Reuters in a statement that Wyden's letter allowed it to publicly comment on the practice.

"In this case, the federal government prohibited us from sharing any information," the company told Reuters. "Now that this method has become public we are updating our transparency reporting to detail these kinds of requests."

After Apple put out the statement, it also updated its Law Enforcement Guidelines to say that a user's Apple ID can be "obtained with a subpoena or greater legal process," The Washington Post reported.

A Google spokesperson told Insider that it was "the first major company to publish a public transparency report sharing the number and types of government requests for user data we receive, including the requests referred to by Senator Wyden."

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"We share the Senator's commitment to keeping users informed about these requests," the statement said.

Apps don't deliver push notifications directly to smartphone users; instead, Wyden's letter said, they go through a "digital post office run by the phone's operating system provider."

When users enable push notifications, Google and Apple create tokens that tie their devices to identifying information they've provided to the companies.

"These services ensure timely and efficient delivery of notifications, but this also means that Apple and Google serve as intermediaries in the transmission process," Wyden's letter said.

His letter said that the DOJ should permit the two companies to share information about legal demands they receive, especially from foreign governments, and to inform specific users about demands for their data, unless prohibited by a court.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Announcements made in joint press conference with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass

LOS ANGELES, December 06, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Banc of California, Inc. (NYSE: BANC) has designated Los Angeles as its new headquarters and has contributed $1 million to help small businesses thrive, CEO Jared Wolff announced today at a joint press conference with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

"As a native Angeleno, I know the power and promise of Los Angeles and the entrepreneurs and businesses that make it great," said Wolff. "As Californias leading business bank, we are designating Los Angeles as our headquarters to further serve this vibrant business community."

"Los Angeles is open for business, and City Hall will advocate to make it easier for businesses to open, expand and thrive," said Mayor Bass, who was joined by Los Angeles City Council President Paul Krekorian, Councilwoman Traci Park, and Deputy Mayor for Business and Economic Development Rachel Freeman. "When you make a change, you see results, and one of those results is that Banc of California is now here in Los Angeles."

At the event, Wolff also announced a $1 million donation from Banc of California to the Mayors Contract Financing Assistance Program (CFAP), which provides financing options for small- and medium-sized businesses so they can more easily compete for government contracts.

"In recognition of our partnership with the city, Banc of California is very pleased to make a $1 million contribution to Mayor Bass Contract Financing Assistance Program," Wolff added. "We are proud to provide small- and medium-sized businesses with the financial support that will help them compete for government contracts. Banc of California looks forward to serving all of our communities with creative financial solutions that create jobs, drive business forward, and enrich the communities where we live and work."

The public sector typically pays contractors at the end of a project, making it difficult for smaller businesses to compete for government contracts. By using the project agreement as collateral, the CFAP enables these businesses to access capital via low-interest loans before the project is completed. This alleviates cash flow concerns so that smaller companies can pursue government contracts and grow. Banc of Californias contribution to the CFAP will expand the current program beyond construction contracts and create a fund that will provide access to low-interest loans for small businesses. The fund will launch in early 2024 and will be advantageous to businesses looking to compete for new contracts around the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.

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"I just want to thank Jared Wolff again because one of the main complaints small businesses have  especially in doing business with the city or with the public sector  is the reimbursement process," added Mayor Bass. "This million dollars, which will begin us launching this loan fund, really will make a difference between businesses being able to survive and businesses being able to do business with the city of Los Angeles. This is a huge deal: One, for you to move your headquarters here, and two, to give a jumpstart to small businesses who want to work with the public sector."

Banc of Californias headquarters was formerly in Santa Ana, California. The company opened an office in the Los Angeles community of Brentwood in 2021. Designating Los Angeles as headquarters comes on the heels of the companys successful close of its transformational merger with PacWest Bancorp on November 30. The combined company retains the Banc of California name and is now the third-largest bank headquartered in California. It is also one of the nations premier relationship-focused business banks.

The press conference was held in front of the Banc of California headquarters located at 11611 San Vicente Blvd. in Los Angeles.

For photos of the event, please visit: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/506trardx0oi6l6h3e00b/h?rlkey=8ysscid1jz5rjn4l6xahcg35e&dl=0

About Banc of California, Inc.

Banc of California, Inc. (NYSE: BANC) is a bank holding company headquartered in Los Angeles with one wholly-owned banking subsidiary, Banc of California (the "bank"), and approximately $36 billion in assets. Banc of California is one of the nations premier relationship-based business banks focused on providing banking and treasury management services to small-, middle-market, and venture-backed businesses. Banc of California offers a broad range of loan and deposit products and services through more than 70 full-service branches throughout California and in Denver, Colorado, and Durham, North Carolina, as well as full-stack payment processing solutions through its subsidiary, Deepstack Technologies. The bank is committed to its local communities by supporting organizations that provide financial literacy and job training, small business support, affordable housing, and more. For more information, please visit us at www.bancofcal.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231205095773/en/

Contacts

Debora Vrana

Mobile: 213-999-4141

Deb.Vrana@bancofcal.com

Jenn Saylors

Mobile: 310-926-9563

Jenn.Saylors@bancofcal.com
The late Charlie Munger (left) and Elon Musk (right). Johannes Eisele/AFP via Getty Images; Kirsty Wigglesworth/WPA Pool via Getty Images

Charlie Munger bemoaned not investing in Amazon early, and wished he bet bigger on Apple.

Warren Buffett's late sidekick, who passed on Tesla, said Elon Musk is talented but takes big risks.

If Buffett and Munger invested $50 billion in Apple, they would have a $280 billion stake today.

The late Charlie Munger regretted not backing Amazon or buying more Apple stock, and viewed Elon Musk as exceptional but too risk-loving for his liking.

Warren Buffett's longtime business partner and Berkshire Hathaway's vice chairman, who died aged 99 last week, voiced those comments in a September interview with The Wall Street Journal's Gregory Zuckerman.

Zuckerman, author of books about elite investors including John Paulson and Jim Simons, shared some highlights from their conversation in a recent article.

Munger said he was a fan of Amazon's founder, Jeff Bezos, but failed to invest in the e-commerce titan early on. That's not surprising given he prized predictability, profitability, and a good price, none of which Amazon offered for a long time. Buffett has even joked that if Bezos stopped in his hometown of Omaha on his way from New York to Seattle to start Amazon, he would have said, "Good luck, Jeff."

Buffett's late right-hand man also bemoaned not taking a larger stake in Apple. That's striking as Berkshire poured a massive $30 billion into the iPhone maker between 2016 and 2018, and its position has ballooned in value to $177 billion today  over half of its $318 billion stock portfolio as of September 30. Indeed, the conglomerate's Apple stake is worth far more than its entire pile of cash and liquid assets, which totaled $157 billion at the end of last quarter.

If Berkshire had plowed $50 billion into Apple at an average price of $34 (about the price it paid for its existing stake), and never sold a share, its position would be worth roughly $280 billion today, all other things being equal. In that scenario, its holdings of a single stock would be worth more than Adobe, Chevron, or Costco, which each have market capitalizations between $265 billion and $275 billion.

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Munger was far less bothered by the fact he passed on Tesla early on. He had the chance to buy in at roughly a $200 million valuation in 2008, or less than 0.1% of the electric-vehicle maker's market cap today, Elon Musk has said.

The legendary investor told Zuckerman that Musk was an "extreme talent" but the opposite of cautious or conservative.

"I would go crazy if I took the risks he did," Munger said. He made a similar point during Berkshire's annual meeting in May, when he said that Musk tries to achieve the impossible, whereas he and Buffett looked for easy things to do.

"We don't want that much failure," Munger said at the time. Buffett echoed that point, saying that tackling brutal challenges "would be torturous to me or Charlie."

Read the original article on Business Insider
By Sabrina Valle

(Reuters) -Oil major Chevron Corp said on Wednesday that it expects to spend between $18.5 billion and $19.5 billion next year on new oil and gas projects, an 11% increase on this year.

Its 2024 budget and that of rival Exxon Mobil reflect the industry's continuing rebound after pandemic-influenced pullbacks, recent acquisitions and carbon reduction initiatives. Exxon plans to spend between $22 billion and $27 billion annually through 2027.

While both are spending more, the combined sums are about half the combined $84 billion Exxon and Chevron spent in 2013, when oil prices often traded above $100 per barrel. The two are benefiting from higher energy prices and pandemic cost-cuts.

Chevron's planned spending includes between $15.5 billion to $16.5 billion in organic capital expenditure for consolidated subsidiaries, and another $3 billion for affiliates.

About half of the affiliate spending is for Tengizchevroil's project in Kazakhstan, Chevron said.

Chevron's figure excludes any impact from its proposed acquisition of rival Hess Corp. That deal, which is expected to close next year, will push capital spending to between $19 billion and $22 billion, it said.

The oil producer in October agreed to buy Hess for $53 billion in stock to gain a bigger U.S. oil footprint and a stake in Exxon Mobil's massive Guyana offshore oil discoveries.

Wednesday's disclosures did not include a new forecast for oil production next year. Chevron previously said the two deals would bring total oil and gas output to about 3.7 million barrels per day.

Chevron plans to spend about $9 billion of its current budget in the U.S., as oil companies move investments to the Americas to reduce costs and pare geopolitical risks.

About $5 billion will go to its fast-growing Permian shale production operation. The shale and tight oil spending increases reflect its acquisition of PDC Energy earlier this year.

Projects in the Gulf of Mexico will take up more than $2 billion, with production from a new oil platform, Anchor, expected to start next year. And roughly 80% of the $1.5 billion for refining and chemicals will also be allocated in the U.S., it said.

The company intends to increase share repurchases by $2.5 billion to the top end of its guidance range of $20 billion per year once the Hess deal closes.

(Reporting by Arunima Kumar in Bengaluru and Sabrina Vale in Houston; Editing by Shailesh Kuber and Sonali Paul)
Chinese stocks tumbled Tuesday following Moody's downgrade of the country's credit outlook. REUTERS/Brittany Hosea-Small

The CSI 300 Index hit fresh four-year lows Tuesday, trading at its lowest since February 2019.

The stock moves followed Moody's downgrade of China's credit outlook.

China's post-pandemic rebound has been a disappointment, and its economy faces multiple hurdles.

China's benchmark CSI 300 stock index tumbled 1.9% to fresh four-year lows Tuesday, hitting its lowest level since February 2019 following Moody's downgrade of the country's credit outlook.

The index has lost 12% year-to-date. The Hang Seng China Enterprises Index also declined 1.6% Tuesday to its lowest since November 2022. The MSCI China index fell more than 2% to its lowest since November 2022.

The stock sell-off comes as investors fear further weakening of the world's second largest economy after Moody's lowered its outlook for China's sovereign bond rating from stable to negative, highlighting the economic turmoil facing the country.

Moody's pointed to Beijing's use of fiscal stimulus to prop up local governments  the country's on track for record bond issuance in 2023  and a worsening real estate crisis as risks to stability.

Chinese officials said they were "disappointed" with the downgrade, and that the country would remain resilient.

Since officials lifted China's zero-COVID policies, the country's rebound has been a disappointment. A slate of headwinds have materialized, including declining foreign trade, highly indebted property developers, deflation, demographic challenges, and risks of "Japanification," as JPMorgan strategists said in a note in August.

Data released last week showed China's manufacturing and services activities contracted in November, and the readings reinforced the government's case to prop up the economy with further fiscal stimulus.

"The outlook change also reflects the increased risks related to structurally and persistently lower medium-term economic growth and the ongoing downsizing of the property sector," the ratings agency said.

In August, Chinese officials had urged economists not to portray data unfavorably, the Financial Times reported, and to instead "interpret bad news from a positive light."

Read the original article on Business Insider
The on-duty death of an American Airlines employee at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport earlier this year was cited by the head of the nation's largest transit union as "a failure on all levels," including on behalf of the Federal Aviation Administration.

Last week, while speaking to a U.S. House subcommittee on aviation, Gary Peterson, executive director of the Transport Workers Union, and a panel of industry experts called on lawmakers to pass legislation aimed at improving efficacy and operations at the FAA.

Peterson referred to the death of American Airlines employee Michal Ingraham at Austin's airport in his remarks. On April 20, Ingraham, 37, was killed after the ground service vehicle he was piloting crashed into a jet bridge connecting aircraft to Barbara Jordan Terminal.

"It has been far too long since the rules keeping these workers safe have been reviewed and updated," Peterson, whose organization represents more than 150,000 transportation workers across the nation, told the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation during a Nov. 30 hearing in Washington, D.C.

The hearing comes after the U.S. House passed a five-year funding reauthorization bill for the FAA this summer. The Senate has not passed a companion reauthorization bill.

If implemented, the bill, HR 3935, would mandate the FAA to review ramp worker safety practices and policies as well as update training programs and other improvements, including increasing the visibility of tarmac safety markings.

Across the U.S. aviation industry, the frequency of accidents involving airport ground service employees is on the rise. A Wall Street Journal analysis of Occupational Safety and Health Administration data found the rates of injuries per 100 employees that led to at least one day away from work increased 17% last year compared with 2019.

Speaking to the Journal, experts attributed the increase, in part, to the aviation industry's swift rebound from pandemic-era stoppages and slowdowns. The Austin airport has seen record-breaking travel this summer, reporting more than 2 million monthly passengers.

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The Transport Workers Union, in a news release after the Nov. 30 hearing, cited four ground service worker deaths at the nation's airports in the last year  two of which occurred at Austin's city-owned airport. The second death at Austin's airport was on Oct. 31, when an employee with the city's Aviation Department was fatally struck by a fuel storage vehicle.

Austin police determined Ingraham's death was accidental, police reports obtained by the American-Statesman show. OSHA concluded its investigation in November, deciding against levying fines against American Airlines or Menzies Aviation, a U.K.-based ground-handling company responsible for the upkeep of the ground service vehicle used by Ingraham.

OSHA's investigation into the death on Oct. 31 remains ongoing, according to online OSHA records.

The transit union's news release cites two other deaths: one in Montgomery, Alabama, on New Years Eve in December 2022, and the other at San Antonio International Airport in June. In those deaths, the ground service workers were "ingested" into a plane engine.

At the conclusion of its investigation, OSHA levied a $15,625 fine against an American Airlines subsidiary, Piedmont Airlines, for the Montgomery death, according to AL.com, though the subsidiary can appeal. The death at San Antonio's airport was ruled a suicide.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Union chief calls for safety reform citing Austin deaths at airport
Henry Ford Health, the Detroit Pistons organization and Michigan State University unveiled a Community Benefits package Tuesday for their planned $3 billion collaborative development in Detroit's New Center that they touted as the biggest to ever be proposed.

The benefits package would contain about $100 million in new, direct financial contributions to the community and just over $600 million in overall value and specially targeted spending out of the project's budget, according to the development partners.

An aerial view rendering of the proposed development and its multiple components.

Such packages are the final product of a mandated Community Benefits process in Detroit for large development projects that seek significant tax abatements and public subsidies.

The biggest such package to date was that approved earlier this year for the $1.5 billion District Detroit development. It called for about $12 million in new direct financial contributions and just over $100 million in specially targeted spending.

The Community Benefits Ordinance meeting was held inside University Preparatory Academy on Antoinette Street in Detroit.

This would be the largest Community Benefits package thats ever been delivered in the history of the ordinance, in the history of this process, in the history of Detroit, Richard Haddad, chief operating officer for the Pistons, said Tuesday night at the development's Community Benefits Ordinance meeting inside University Preparatory Academy.

The proposed package is still subject to a vote by a volunteer group of area residents known as the Neighborhood Advisory Council or NAC, and eventually would need final approval by Detroit City Council.

The package is said to include 82 of the 155 requests that the nine-member NAC made to the three organizations last month. The cost to fulfill all 155 requests would be about $2.5 billion, Haddad said.

"We put a lot of work into responding to that ask, and to delivering as much as we possibly could," Haddad said. Where that got us is to a place where were proposing to deliver a benefits package that is multiples more than any other benefits package."

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NAC Chair Lynda Jeffries said she and fellow members will now begin negotiating for the final benefits package. A vote could potentially happen as soon as the next Community Benefits Ordinance meeting Dec. 12.

Several residents who spoke at Tuesday night's meeting faulted the proposed package for not including enough NAC requests, including too many items that NAC or the community didn't ask for, or allegedly counting as benefits things the three organizations would do anyway in the normal course of business.

"Its a bunch of stuff that nobody asked for, no one really cares about," area resident Nate Phillips said. "The stuff that people actually do really care about is just kind of conveniently thrown to the side.

Orange is proposed new housing. Green is the joint Henry Ford-MSU research center. Light blue is the Henry Ford Hospital expansion.

The planned $3 billion development includes a Henry Ford Hospital expansion with a 21-story tower, 662 units of new mixed-income rental housing and a new joint Henry Ford Health/MSU research building.

The three organizations are seeking $273 million in tax breaks and other incentives to help construct the housing and research building portions.

Henry Ford Health isn't seeking tax breaks or incentives for the $2.2 billion hospital expansion, and that expansion isn't contingent on the other portions of the planned development happening, hospital officials have said.

Proposed New Center housing, research center seek $273M in incentives

The new housing would be developed by a Pistons-related entity and ultimately owned by the Pistons organization. A full 20% of the 662 apartments would be set aside at reduced rents for those with below-median incomes.

Some items in the proposed Community Benefits package include:

Providing 5 acres of green space near the hospital, a $30 million estimated cost.

Targeting $100 million of spending in the development toward disadvantaged and Detroit-based businesses.

Setting aside 20% of the 662 apartments as "affordable:" 13 units for those making no more than 30% area median income or $19,890 a year for a single person; 107 units at 50% area median income or $33,150; 13 units at 70% area median income or $46,410.

Accepting Section 8 housing vouchers for the affordable units.

Giving 50 free tuition MSU scholarships for the length of enrollment to seniors at University Preparatory Academy and Northwestern High School.

Giving $15 million over five years to the Ruth Ellis Center to help house at-risk LGBTQ+ young people.

Prioritizing Detroit residents for jobs.

Devising a plan for potentially redeveloping the old Fairbanks Elementary School building.

Developing a plan to promote local businesses near the development.

Contact JC Reindl: 313-222-6631 or jcreindl@freepress.com. Follow him on X @jcreindl.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Community Benefits proposal touted as biggest ever in Detroit
There is currently an almost equal rise in demand for green sustainable buildings from occupiers, and the number of investors in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) ahead of the global average (44%). However, the combination of a lack of knowledge about green real estate amongst investors and concerns about high initial costs is preventing the regions green infrastructure from reaching its net zero targets, according to The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

Although demand is growing at 51% in the MEA region, the green and sustainable buildings must demonstrate multi-stage value to overcome the cost barrier, stated RICS in its global sustainability report for 2023 published today (December 6).

The publication outlines the state of the worlds green and sustainable real estate and investor interest in acquiring and developing it.

The report states that across the MEA around three-fifths of contributors believe that investor demand for green buildings has risen to some extent in the past year.

This appetite could be commercially driven as a quarter of the investors believed that the green credentials of a building has significant impact on the capital value of a property, while one fifth believed that green features also substantially affect rental value.

The requirements for green buildings from the MEA respondents differ from those of other regions due to its nuanced combination of environmental factors, such as 40% of contributors stating that minimising water consumption is essential, matched by the importance of energy efficiency (40%), while the need for a good indoor environment (37%) is also a priority.

Interestingly, just over a third of regional contributors report that effective waste management and waste minimisation are vital features of green buildings for occupiers and investors. This is significantly higher than the global average of around 16%, stated the RICS in its report.

Regardless of the requirements, more than half of the professionals in the MEA state that lack of knowledge and expertise among investors is a critical problem. Although one major solution to this would be clearer legislation as a substantial share of contributors across the region believe government regulations and policies around carbon pricing could help support decarbonisation across the sector.

Continuing this business-first approach around 40% of contributors in the region, which is above the global average, assert that carbon price regulations can be highly effective in reducing emissions and managing climate risks.

Although both occupier and investor demand is rising, all sources agree that they are still seeing a lack of measurement. Like the 2022 and 2021 reports, construction sector professionals were asked to give insights around embodied carbon assessment across projects.

The 2023 results show that around 43% of respondents globally do not conduct any measurement of embodied carbon on projects. In the MEA, this figure of those not making any assessments stands at 48%.

Even if carbon is being assessed, there is little evidence to suggest that it is having an impact on the choice of materials and components. To achieve targets, measurement must become common practice.

Tina Paillet, President Elect at RICS, said: "The latest RICS global sustainability report reveals that the MEA is among the leading regions for positive sentiment in sustainable real estate, ahead of both the Asia Pacific and the Americas."

"However, the research indicates that several bottlenecks such as the high initial costs, lack of evidence of a return and uncertainty around benefits are significantly hindering progress," noted Paillet.

"The built environment contributes 40% of the worlds carbon emissions. We cannot tackle global emissions without substantially reducing embodied and operational emissions from buildings and infrastructure. Because of this, RICS continues to develop its green standards for the sector, such as the recently developed Whole Life Carbon Assessment (WLCA) to guide the industry in a direction that supports greater sustainability and decarbonisation."

"What we can measure, we can then manage understanding the scale and scope of emissions is a key first step. Sustainability is much wider than carbon emissions, and RICS will continue to support professionals through our range of standards, existing and in development," she added.-TradeArabia News Service
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - December 5, 2023) - Eguana Technologies Inc. (TSXV: EGT) (OTCQB: EGTYF) ("Eguana" or the "Company") has been notified that DHCT II Luxembourg S.a r.l. (in liquidation) ("DHCT"), an investment vehicle of Doughty Hanson & Co Technology II (in dissolution)(the "Fund"), a fund managed by Doughty Hanson & Co Managers Limited (as liquidating trustee), in connection with their previously announced and on-going liquidation of the Fund, and the wind-down of its operations, will proceed with a distribution-in-kind (the "Distribution") of the common shares (the "Common Shares") that DHCT currently holds in the capital of Eguana. The Common Shares will be distributed to the underlying investors in the Fund consisting of a number of large institutional investors as well as a small number of individuals affiliated with DHCT.

The Distribution is being undertaken in accordance with the Fund's confidential governing documents as part of the Fund finalizing its winding-up and dissolution. The Distribution is expected to be completed during the month of December 2023. The Common Shares transferred to the underlying investors of DHCT will have a four month and one day hold period. Following the Distribution, none of the investors in the Fund will become reporting insiders of Eguana.

As a result of the Distribution, DHCT will no longer own any shares of Eguana thereby triggering the termination of the investor rights agreement between the Company and DHCT dated August 8, 2019 (as amended) (the "Investor Rights Agreement"). In connection with the termination of the Investor Rights Agreement, DHCT will no longer have a right to appoint a board member and as a result, Graeme Stening, DHCT's representative on the board has tendered his resignation effective immediately. In addition, the single Series 8 preferred share of the Company, currently held by DHCT will be redeemed for cancellation at a price of $1.00.

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"DHCT has been a valued investor in Eguana since 2009, and we are pleased that they decided to pursue a distribution rather than a sale of the Fund's shares as part of the on-going wind down. Eguana is excited to now be able to engage directly with these institutional shareholders and share our growth strategy, particularly as it relates to utility and virtual power plant execution," stated Justin Holland, Chief Executive Officer of Eguana.

Mr Holland concluded: "On behalf of the board, we would like to thank Graeme Stening for his many contributions to Eguana, and we wish Mr. Stening and the entire DHCT team well as they proceed with the wind-up and dissolution of the Fund."

DHCT currently exercises control or direction over 91,710,165 Common Shares of Eguana, which represents approximately 20.9% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares. Following the Distribution, DHCT will cease to have control or direction over any of the Common Shares.

The foregoing disclosure is being disseminated pursuant to National Instrument 62-103 - The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting. Copies of the early warning reports with respect to the foregoing will appear on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca and may also be obtained by contacting Hansine Ullberg, Chief Financial Officer of the Company at hansine.ullberg@eguanatech.com.

George W. Powlick, a director of Eguana and former managing director of the Fund, will receive 2,076,461Common Shares as part of the Distribution. Mr. Powlick will continue to act as Chairman of the Company.

About Eguana Technologies Inc.

Eguana Technologies Inc. (TSXV: EGT) (OTCQB: EGTYF) designs and manufactures high performance residential and commercial energy storage systems. The Company also markets and sells a suite of micro inverter products, which are integrated with its energy storage platform, providing consumers with full solar + storage system architecture, for residential and commercial applications. Eguana has two decades of experience delivering grid edge power electronics for fuel cell, photovoltaic and battery applications, and delivers proven, durable, high-quality solutions from its high-capacity manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe, and Australia.

With thousands of its proprietary energy storage inverters deployed in the European and North American markets, Eguana is one of the leading suppliers of power controls for solar self-consumption, grid services and demand charge applications at the grid edge. Focused on distributed energy storage applications located at the point of energy consumption, Eguana provides cost-effective solutions to modernize the power grid, from the consumer to the electricity retailer, the distribution utility, and the system operator.

To learn more, visit www.EguanaTech.com or follow us on X @EguanaTech.

Company Inquiries

Justin Holland

CEO, Eguana Technologies Inc.

+1.416.728.7635

Justin.Holland@EguanaTech.com

Forward-Looking Information

The reader is advised that all information herein, other than statements of historical fact, may constitute forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning assigned by National Instrument 51-102 - Continuous Disclosure Obligations and other relevant securities legislation. Forward-Looking statements include, among other things, the Company's ability to engage with our new shareholder base following the Distribution; whether the Company's new shareholder base will participate in the growth of the Company through additional investments in the future; whether the Company will be able to recruit additional board talent.

Forward-Looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or future events or developments, to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include, but are not limited to, risks associated with: failure by the Company to properly allocate available funds for immediate needs, such as debt service, payroll and payments; failure by the Company to raise additional funds to fund working capital requirements or to solve its current cash flow constraints, which would impact the viability of the business to continue operating as a going concern or the viability of the business to continue operating altogether; statements pertaining to the value of our power controls to the energy storage market; statements concerning future sales, operating results and liquidity; and other factors as set out in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 and annual information form dated May 1, 2023, which may be found on its website or at www.sedarplus.ca.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as of the date hereof. The Company does not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/190021
Key Insights

Majuperak Holdings Berhad's estimated fair value is RM0.33 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Current share price of RM0.30 suggests Majuperak Holdings Berhad is potentially trading close to its fair value

Peers of Majuperak Holdings Berhad are currently trading on average at a 2,364% premium

Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of Majuperak Holdings Berhad (KLSE:MJPERAK) as an investment opportunity by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine.

We generally believe that a company's value is the present value of all of the cash it will generate in the future. However, a DCF is just one valuation metric among many, and it is not without flaws. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you.

Check out our latest analysis for Majuperak Holdings Berhad

The Model

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 begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Seeing as no analyst estimates of free cash flow are available to us, we have extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the company's last reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars:

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10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (MYR, Millions) RM15.4m RM11.5m RM9.55m RM8.53m RM7.99m RM7.71m RM7.61m RM7.62m RM7.71m RM7.85m Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ -37.94% Est @ -25.49% Est @ -16.78% Est @ -10.68% Est @ -6.41% Est @ -3.42% Est @ -1.33% Est @ 0.13% Est @ 1.16% Est @ 1.88% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 11% RM13.9 RM9.3 RM7.0 RM5.6 RM4.7 RM4.1 RM3.6 RM3.3 RM3.0 RM2.7

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM57m

The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (3.6%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 11%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = RM7.9m (1 + 3.6%)  (11% 3.6%) = RM107m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM107m ( 1 + 11%)10= RM37m

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 RM94m. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of RM0.3, the company appears about fair value at a 9.4% discount to where the stock price trades currently. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent.

dcf

Important Assumptions

We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. 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 Majuperak Holdings 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 1.115. 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.

Looking Ahead:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. For Majuperak Holdings Berhad, there are three pertinent items you should consider:

Risks: For example, we've discovered 4 warning signs for Majuperak Holdings Berhad (1 doesn't sit too well with us!) that you should be aware of before investing here. Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing! Other Environmentally-Friendly Companies: Concerned about the environment and think consumers will buy eco-friendly products more and more? Browse through our interactive list of companies that are thinking about a greener future to discover some stocks you may not have thought of!

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.
Semafor Signals

NEWS

A substantial volume of clothing coming into the European Union likely contains materials sourced from Uyghur forced labor, according to a new report.

Major brands including Zara and H&M are at high risk of sourcing material  particularly cotton  from forced labor, due to their connection with four major Chinese companies linked to state programs that mandate labor for Uyghurs detained in internment camps, the report from Uyghur Rights Monitor, Sheffield Hallam University, and the Uyghur Centre for Democracy and Human Rights alleges.

Global brands have come under fire in recent months for their ties to Xinjiang, with many launching audits to ensure there is no forced labor in their supply chains. Zaras parent company told the Guardian it did not source material from forced labor, while H&M said it had come far in being more transparent about its supply chain.

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

The report is evidence that slavery remains widespread within the global economy, Uyghur human rights lawyer Rayhan Asat told Semafor. Unlike the U.S., where the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has prevented more than $500 million of goods being imported into the country this year, the European Union has no such legislation. Asat said trade considerations play a significant role in why the EU has decided not to pursue similar measures against China, but that in doing so, it has created a situation where corporations can pursue forum shopping to exploit slave labor.

China is investing heavily in Xinjiang trade infrastructure despite worldwide condemnation of forced labor. The worlds longest highway tunnel, currently under construction, will slash travel time between the north and south of the region, and allow for future railroad links to countries in central Asia, such as Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. Beijing has largely circumvented Western sanctions imposed over alleged Uyghur abuses, with Xinjiangs foreign trade hitting a record high of $40.5 billion within the first 10 months of this year, according to Urumqi customs. Experts are worried that turning Xinjiang into a trade hub will only make matters worse. In building the tunnel, what assurances do people have that Beijing will not extend its pervasive use of Uyghur forced labor? asks former Human Rights Watch director Kenneth Roth.

Even as companies tighten oversight of Xinjiang production, theres no guarantee their supply chains are free from forced labor, activists warn. Volkswagens audit of its plant in Xinjiang this year found no results of forced labor, but executives have admitted that officials only checked the working conditions of the employees in the factory itself, German newspaper Die Zeit reports. Companies having production sites in Xinjiang itself is a big symbol for the Chinese government because it reinforces their propaganda that they bring prosperity to a region where people are actively facing genocide, an activist told Politico earlier this year.
An increase in foreign travel following the reopening of all international borders earlier this year is positively impacting the hospitality industry, with global urban markets such as London, New York and Tokyo emerging as the most appealing for hotel investment.

Because of the spike in travel, many cities are generating record-high revenue per available room (RevPAR), and investors expect the growth to continue, according to JLL's November Global Hotel Investment Sentiment Survey.

Urban markets are expected to capture the bulk of capital from 84% of global hotel investors, who will gravitate toward irreplicable luxury assets with in-place cash flow, according to the JLL report.

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With $2.5 billion in hotel transaction volume through the first nine months of the year, New York City is the most liquid global hotel market so far this year, attracting a mix of domestic and foreign investors. Among the highlights is QUI's $623 million purchase of the Park Lane Hotel in September  the fifth-largest single-asset deal in New York's history.

New York hotels' performance also is increasing with RevPAR up 8.3% through August this year compared to 2019. Of investors surveyed, 86% expect performance to improve even more.

London has seen historically high average daily rates, which has resulted in RevPAR growth of 20% through August. Although occupancy is still off, 100% of investors surveyed expect RevPAR to continue growing over the next 12 months. London's hotel investment volume declined to $440 million through the first nine months of the year but is expected to pick up during the coming year.

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Although Chinese travel to Tokyo is at just half of what it was before the pandemic, the city's hotel performance has improved significantly since the beginning of the year. Through August, RevPAR was down just 14.5% compared to 2019. The yen's weakening has spurred more European travelers to visit Tokyo, and travel from China and the U.S. is expected to increase. Through the third quarter, Tokyo's hotel transaction volume reached $969 million, the third-highest total in the market's history.

While overall investment activity in the hotel sector has been limited over the past year because of the high cost of capital and debt market volatility, luxury assets and select-service and extended-stay hotels have benefited from strong traveler demand.

Although debt has become expensive, pricing for luxury hotels hit a near-all-time high of $624,000 per key through the first nine months of 2023, and investors expect it to increase to $725,000 per key over the next 12 months.

Although select-service hotel pricing declined 7.6% so far this year to $163,000 per key, investors expected it to return to prepandemic levels over the next year.

Read Next:

Most investors are priced out of buying real estate in the highest-growth markets, but this genius strategy will allow almost anyone to get a piece of the action.

Collecting passive income from real estate just got a whole lot simpler. A new real estate fund backed by Jeff Bezos gives you instant access to a diversified portfolio of rental properties, and you only need $100 to get started.

Passive income investments are one of the most trusted methods for riding out a recession, so it's no surprise that people are turning to high-yield real estate notes that pay a fixed 7.5% to 9%.

"ACTIVE INVESTORS' SECRET WEAPON" Supercharge Your Stock Market Game with the #1 "news & everything else" trading tool: Benzinga Pro - Click here to start Your 14-Day Trial Now!

This article Globetrotters' Gold Rush: Top Urban Hotspots Entice Hotel Investors originally appeared on Benzinga.com

 2023 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, on stage during a presentation at Google I/O in Mountain View, California, on May 10, 2023. Google

Google has unveiled Gemini, its generative AI model.

Google made a big internal push to get Gemini out the door this year.

Bard is getting Gemini right away, but a more advanced model won't arrive until next year.

After months of teasing us, Google is starting to roll out its generative artificial intelligence model, Gemini.

The new model, which will be launched in phases, is Google's chance to thwart the narrative that it's fallen behind rivals such as OpenAI.

But while users will have access to Gemini this month, the most advanced version of the model won't arrive until early next year.

Gemini has three "sizes" that will be available in stages: Ultra, Pro, and Nano  the last of which is designed to run locally on devices such as smartphones.

Google is giving users access to the Pro version Wednesday through its chatbot Bard, and to Cloud customers in the coming days, but says the Ultra model  the biggest and most technically advanced of the three  is still undergoing internal testing, and won't roll out until early 2024.

Google says it plans to infuse its most popular products with Gemini over time. It will also launch Gemini Ultra to a new version of Bard called Bard Advanced next year. Sissie Hsiao, Google's VP and general manager of Bard and Assistant, wouldn't say if Bard Advanced will cost money to use but didn't deny it was a possibility.

There's immense pressure on Google right now to prove it's still an AI industry leader with Gemini, which was trained to be multimodal, meaning it can process different types of media such as text, pictures, video, and audio. But Google boasts that Gemini is its "most flexible" model too, capable of running on a range of sources from data centers to smartphones.

In a roundtable with reporters this week, Google executives said the Ultra model of Gemini is the first model to outperform human experts on MMLU (massive multitask language understanding), a measurement that tests on subjects such as math, history, law, and ethics. The model scored 90.0%, beating OpenAI's GPT-4's 86.4%

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That all sounds great, but we won't be able to test the full capabilities of Gemini just yet. Google says the Pro model outperformed GPT-3.5, which powers the free version of ChatGPT, and users will be able to test a fine-tuned version for Bard starting Wednesday (only in English to start, Google says, and not in the UK). But when asked how Gemini compares to GPT-4 overall, executives declined to comment (it did, however, benchmark Gemini Ultra against GPT-4 across a range of different areas and published the results here).

Publicly, Google has swatted away suggestions it's been scrambling to chase the competition, but things have looked very different inside the company as it has raced to get Gemini out the door and infuse AI into all of its key products.

Earlier this year, CEO Sundar Pichai merged Alphabet's prized DeepMind unit with its internal AI group, Brain, to quicken work on Gemini. Staff were also told that Google would reduce the amount of research it publishes to limit rivals commercializing their ideas, BI reported.

Where Google believes Gemini has the edge on the competition is in what it calls "sophisticated reasoning," which is the way the model processes complex information across different types of media.

In one demo shown to the press, DeepMind researchers used Gemini to scour hundreds of thousands of research papers to extract specific types of data. Google said Gemini was able to distinguish between papers that were relevant to the study and those that weren't. More interestingly, they were able to show Gemini a graph with old data and have it produce an updated version, with the new data plotted.

While Gemini can process different media types, Eli Collins, VP of product for DeepMind, said the initial Gemini models won't be able to generate images and videos, but suggested this was something that would come down the line in other models.

Collins added that Google has seen some "novel" capabilities in Gemini that could give it an edge over rival models, but would not elaborate on what those might be.

Gemini has been trained on and is powered by tensor processing units (TPUs), and Google is using Gemini's rollout to announce its new Cloud TPU v5p and a new AI hypercomputer that will be used to improve AI training and delivery. Interestingly, Amin Vahdat, a VP at Google Cloud AI, said Gemini will run on both GPUs and TPUs in the future, but did not elaborate beyond that.

Google says it's making Gemini Pro available to enterprise customers through its Vertex AI program, and for developers in AI Studio, on December 13.

As for its consumer products beyond Bard, Google is launching Gemini Nano on the Pixel 8 Pro smartphone on Wednesday, which will enable features such as summarizing the contents of voice recordings.

Google also said it plans to add Gemini to SGE, its generative AI-powered version of Search, as well as Chrome, Duet AI, and other products, in the coming months.

Are you a current or former Googler with a tip? You can reach Hugh via encrypted messaging apps Signal/Telegram (+1 628-228-1836) or email at hlangley@protonmail.com.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Grimes says Elon Musk wants to 'cherry pick' intel from their nannies and not let them testify in her favor in their custody battle

Elon Musk and son X  A-12 on stage TIME Person of the Year on December 13, 2021 in New York City. Theo Wargo/Getty Images for TIME

Grimes says Elon Musk is blocking access to their nannies in their custody battle, court records show.

She accused Musk of using NDAs in an attempt to cherry-pick information from the nannies.

Family law experts said it's unlikely Musk will be able to stop the nannies from testifying.

Grimes has accused Elon Musk of blocking their kids' nannies from providing information that would help her in their custody battle and instead cherry-picking information that is favorable to him, according to court records obtained by Business Insider.

Musk and Grimes both filed child custody lawsuits against each other in September in Texas and California respectively. Musk has argued Texas is the kids' home state and accused Grimes, the musician whose legal name is Claire Boucher, of moving two of the children, one-year-olds Exa and Tau, to California this year in order to avoid Texas courts.

However, Grimes has said the kids have lived in California since around December 31, 2022, though she noted that 3-year-old X has been with Musk in Texas over her objection.

Family law experts previously said the former couple could spend months or even a year just trying to prove where the kids live, a potentially elaborate process that could rely heavily on testimony from nannies about where the children have been.

Where the case plays out could have major consequences for Musk  one of the richest people in the world  as Texas limits child custody payouts for three kids to $2,760 per month, while California has no cap.

Court records show the children's nannies are already part of that jurisdictional fight. In a motion filed November 30 and obtained by Business Insider this week, Grimes accused Musk of limiting access to the kids' nannies, whom the document says are "bound by non-disclosure agreements" that he required them to sign.

The filing alleges that Musk has "refused to answer whether he would relieve nannies of their obligations under the terms of the non-disclosure agreement" if Grimes "seeks information from the nannies which likely would be beneficial to her." It also said Musk filed a motion to prevent Grimes from getting information from the company that employs the nannies.

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Instead, the filing says, Musk "wants to cherry pick information from the nannies" that he believes is favorable to him.

Musk "appears to be taking the untenable position that the nannies are not bound by the non-disclosure agreement" when it benefits him, but is using the same non-disclosure agreement to block the nannies from providing Grimes with information, the filing said.

Lawyers for Musk and Grimes did not immediately respond to Insider's requests for comment.

Peter M. Walzer, a California family law attorney and partner at Walzer Melcher, told Business Insider it's unlikely Musk can stop the nannies from testifying without dropping the case altogether.

"They're the ones who have the knowledge of how many days the kids spent in any place," Walzer said of the nannies, noting that the home state of the children is typically the place where they spent the six months leading up to the litigation.

Chris Melcher, also a California family law attorney and partner at Walzer Melcher, agreed it's likely that the court will ultimately compel the nannies to testify.

"This is a common tactic we see in which the person who employs the nanny and has the NDA uses the information from the nanny as needed and then blocks the other side from validating that statement or getting contradictory information," he said.

He noted the nannies may have more loyalty to Musk, who likely pays them if they watch the kids in Texas, and that they also may be at a higher risk of being sued by Musk than Grimes.

Still, he said, a non-disclosure agreement is typically a promise not to publicly reveal information about the family  it's not an order that prohibits them from speaking in court. Musk for his part has asked the court to issue a protective order restricting public access to the custody case, arguing the potential risk to his kids outweighs public interest.

The filing from Grimes also asked the court to sanction Musk over his actions, which typically involves imposing a financial penalty, but Melcher said that was unlikely to happen and is usually a last resort.

Read the original article on Business Insider
During Wednesdays highly anticipated hearing with Americas big bank CEOs, the controversial capital requirements proposed by the Federal Reserve came up again and again.

While many staked out familiar positions, either fully in favor or fully opposed to the provisions, lawmakers in both parties as well as the assembled CEOs also pointed to areas where the proposed rules could be amended before they go into effect.

Hopefully its going to look very different before it gets promulgated, noted Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.).

At issue are higher capital requirements that regulators are hoping to finalize in the coming months after they were unveiled this summer by Fed Vice Chair for Supervision Michael Barr. Those requirements focused on the amount of capital that banks must have in reserve to protect themselves from insolvency.

In the months since, the banks have launched a campaign to roll back the new rules  or scrap them entirely.

We hope the Federal agencies will be open to changes and will review the industrys comments thoughtfully, added Morgan Stanley CEO James Gorman during his testimony.

Perhaps importantly, the proposed rules also came under scrutiny from moderate Democrats on the Senate panel who could be important to the debate in the weeks ahead as the Federal Reserve weighs the proposed changes to rule, known as Basel III endgame measures.

Figures like Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) and Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) weighed in to raise concerns about things like how much the proposed regulations could spur the movement of additional financial services outside of the formal banking system.

I think the timing at this moment is very problematic with interest rates as high as they are, said Sen. Warner. But he also noted that the big banks object anytime there is any proposed new regulation.

Banking CEOs are sworn in as they testify during a Senate Banking Committee hearing on Dec. 6, 2023. (Win McNamee/Getty Images) (Win McNamee via Getty Images)

Players in the financial sector have pushed for deep changes to the proposal. Meredith Whitney of Meredith Whitney Advisory Group told Yahoo Finance in an interview Wednesday (see video above) that the proposal was "hamfisted" and represents a "risk ... for the US consumer."

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The proposal would raise banks' capital requirements by 16% in aggregate, and widen the scope of new requirements to institutions with as little as $100 billion in assets  an effort to include smaller banks like Silicon Valley Bank, which failed this spring.

All Republicans on the committee aligned on a letter released last month that calls on the Biden administration to withdraw the Basel III endgame entirely. Ranking member Tim Scott (R-S.C.) called Basel a nightmare proposal that will make it harder for average Americans to access loans.

Some GOP lawmakers tried to prod the Federal Reserve to make changes. Regulation does not exist in a vacuum and the federal reserve must take this into account, said Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.)

Likewise, the assembled bank CEOs universally assailed the proposal, but signaled some areas that could get a second look in the weeks ahead.

Goldman Sachs (GS) CEO David Solomon used some of his time to argue that the more stringent market-making provisions in the rules were particularly punitive and could increase costs for consumers from airlines tickets to pension plans.

These costs will likely get passed on to consumers, he noted.

The hearing is part of Congress's annual oversight of the financial sector. It featured the industry's top bosses from Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Solomon to Brian Moynihan of Bank of America (BAC). The CEOs of Citigroup (C), Wells Fargo (WFC), State Street (STT), BNY Mellon (BK), and Morgan Stanley (MS) also appeared before the panel of 23 senators for questioning that covered an array of topics.

More left-leaning questioners gave the rules a warmer reception with Senate Banking Chair Sherrod Brown kicking things off by telling the assembled CEOs he thought their campaign against the tighter requirements was based on little more than profit.

Absolutely nothing in these rules would stop your banks from making loans to working families, he noted, slamming the banks lobbying efforts. He added that you would rather fund risky trading and derivatives bets than boring, bread-and-butter small business lending.

Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase & Co., takes a photo of journalists before a Senate oversight hearing on Dec. 6. (Alex Brandon/AP Photo) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

While Barr proposed the new outline this summer, not every member of the central bank has been onboard.

Fed Governor Christopher Waller recently called the proposal "excessive" in a conversation with the American Enterprise Institute. He told the think tank last week that if the proposal did away with separate requirements for so-called operational risk  risk from potential losses from disruptions due to internal mismanagement like fraud, or external shocks like a cyberattack  that he could support the proposal. The capital requirement for operational risk is a major sticking point with the banks.

There is also a broader sense that changes could be in the offing. "Michael Barr knows he went too far on a few things," said David Wessel, a senior fellow in economic studies at the Brookings Institution, in an interview this week before the hearing. He predicted that regulators will look at issues like operational risk and debate "you should fix this or you should fix this" in the months ahead as lawmakers work to finalize the proposal.

Click here for in-depth analysis of the latest stock market news and events moving stock prices.

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
Key Insights

The projected fair value for Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad is RM13.81 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Current share price of RM7.08 suggests Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad is potentially 49% undervalued

Analyst price target for AIRPORT is RM8.22 which is 41% below our fair value estimate

Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (KLSE:AIRPORT) as an investment opportunity by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. There's really not all that much to it, even though it might appear quite complex.

We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you.

View our latest analysis for Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad

Is Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad Fairly Valued?

We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars:

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10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (MYR, Millions) RM1.51b RM1.81b RM2.03b RM2.23b RM2.41b RM2.57b RM2.71b RM2.85b RM2.98b RM3.11b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x5 Analyst x3 Est @ 12.47% Est @ 9.79% Est @ 7.92% Est @ 6.61% Est @ 5.69% Est @ 5.05% Est @ 4.60% Est @ 4.28% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 13% RM1.3k RM1.4k RM1.4k RM1.4k RM1.3k RM1.3k RM1.2k RM1.1k RM1.0k RM942

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM12b

The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (3.6%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 13%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = RM3.1b (1 + 3.6%)  (13% 3.6%) = RM35b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM35b ( 1 + 13%)10= RM11b

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 RM23b. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of RM7.1, the company appears quite undervalued at a 49% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out.

dcf

Important Assumptions

We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Malaysia Airports Holdings 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 13%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.340. 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 Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad

Strength

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Weakness

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Infrastructure market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Malaysian market.

Trading below our estimate of fair value by more than 20%.

Threat

Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year.

Looking Ahead:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation 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. What is the reason for the share price sitting below the intrinsic value? For Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, we've put together three further aspects you should further examine:

Financial Health: Does AIRPORT have a healthy balance sheet? Take a look at our free balance sheet analysis with six simple checks on key factors like leverage and risk. Future Earnings: How does AIRPORT'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.
Italy and South Koreas Central Banks MoU on CBDCs Collaboration

Banca d'Italia, the central bank of Italy, has announced its partnership with the Bank of Korea, South Korea's central bank, through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at cooperating on IT and payment systems. Unveiled on December 5, the MoU centers on the exchange of knowledge and information regarding information and communication technology (ICT) matters.

The MoU specifically highlights ICT issues related to real-time settlement systems and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). Italy and South Korea have pursued divergent paths in exploring CBDCs over the past year. Italy's focus has primarily been on achieving interoperability in settling transactions based on distributed ledger technology (DLT) using hash-linked contracts, departing from the wholesale CBDC approach embraced by other European nations.

On the other hand, South Korea initiated a pilot program for its CBDC infrastructure technology in October, involving both private banks and public institutions. The Bank for International Settlements is providing technical support for this initiative. Additionally, South Korea plans to invite 100,000 citizens to participate in CBDC testing beginning in 2024.

Despite the progress made by governments worldwide in CBDC development, significant opposition to digital currencies remains. A German politician recently expressed strong opposition to the European Union's digital euro, viewing CBDCs as an encroachment on privacy. In the United States, several public figures, including podcast host Joe Rogan, have voiced skepticism and concerns about the country's own CBDC.

Let us know what you loved about this article, what could be improved, or share any other feedback by filling out this short form.
HQ, Bahrains largest co-working space, owned and operated by Hope Ventures, the investment arm of Hope Fund, has announced new student offers.

Students of all educational levels can benefit from the student offer provided they present their student ID. The offer entails receiving a student card for BD22 ($58.45) (VAT exclusive) that unlocks flexible space access hours and access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.

Students can use dedicated workspaces, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and printing services, providing a professional setting to work on projects, collaborate with peers, get private tutoring lessons, and study for their upcoming exams.

With a vibrant community and an array of resources at their disposal, HQ invites all students who are eager to connect with other ambitious individuals to take advantage of these exclusive offers.--TradeArabia News Service
Lindsey St. Arnold Bell, Executive Director of Near West Side Partners/BID #10, shows the future home of Fruition MKE cafe being built at Concordia 27, a mixed-use space which will include affordable housing units, a community gathering space, a commercial kitchen, and business incubator, on Thursday November 16, 2023 in Milwaukee, Wis.

The $20 million transformation of a long-vacant historic building on Milwaukee's near west side into a commercial kitchen, co-working space, affordable apartments and other new uses is nearing the final stages.

The Concordia 27 development, in the Concordia neighborhood at 801-813 N. 27th St., will bring new activity to the corner of West Wells and North 27th streets  a busy intersection that's near other planned commercial projects.

Concordia 27 includes a cafe that will tie into space for co-working and community meetings.

It also will give Near West Side Partners Inc., a nonprofit community group, a new location to consolidate its operations from two sites that are less visible.

"As a community organization, you want to have more of a public presence," said Lindsey St. Arnold Bell, the group's executive director.

Renovations of the four-story building started in spring 2022.

The project is led by Rick Wiegand. He owns the property and has redeveloped other near west side buildings  including the restoration of the Ambassador Hotel, 2308 W. Wisconsin Ave.

The upper floors will have 33 apartments, ranging from studios to two-bedroom units.

Milwaukee County's $1.37 billion 2024 budget, recently approved by the County Board and County Executive David Crowley, includes $2 million to help ensure those units will be affordable for people earning $15 per hour or less, according to Near West Side Partners.

Those apartments will be completed by fall 2024, St. Arnold Bell said.

The first feature to open at Concordia 27 will be a 12,000-square-foot commercial kitchen operated by the nonprofit Milwaukee Center for Independence.

That group, based in the neighborhood at 2020 W. Wells St., is contracted by schools and child care centers to provide meals. This will expand that work.

The center uses its kitchens to provide culinary workforce training for people with intellectual disabilities and previously incarcerated people.

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The center plans to open its Concordia 27 kitchen by late December or early January, said Heidi Chada, vice president of employment and community services

It will include an adjacent cooking demonstration and event space which features restored skylights, she said.

Near West Side Partners plans to relocate its operations to Concordia 27 by March.

The organization's new home will include space for community groups and neighborhood service providers, such as Children's Wisconsin, St. Arnold Bell said.

Concordia 27 also will provide a larger location for Scaling Wellness in Milwaukee, which offers wellness services that include counseling, yoga, reiki massage and acupuncture.

Scaling Wellness in Milwaukee was launched by Marquette University President Mike Lovell and his wife, Amy, as a response to psychological trauma among Milwaukee central city residents. It's now based at the Ascension St. Joseph Hospital campus.

Finally, there will be co-working space and makers space that blends with coffee shop Fruition MKE.

The cafe is to open in spring 2024, with the separate co-working and maker spaces available through paid memberships, said Fruition operator Tiffany Miller, co-owner of the Bronzeville Collective shops, 339 W. North Ave.

Her investment in Concordia 27 was motivated in part by the fact that she lives nearby and wants a coffee shop within walking distance.

Concordia 27 is restoring a historic building that's been vacant for nearly a decade.

A rendering of Concordia 27, a mixed-use space which will include affordable housing units, a community gathering space, a commercial kitchen, and business incubator, on Wednesday November 15, 2023 in Milwaukee, Wis.

The four-story building was constructed in 1925, with additions built in 1931 and 1935, according to the Wisconsin Historical Society. It was known as the Cecelia Apartment Building.

Along with commercial space, the building initially had 30 apartments, St. Arnold Bell said.

Those units were divided into 69 apartments during the 1950s, she said  presumably to meet demand from people working in the near west side's hospitals.

The renovations, which include preserving French doors, terrazzo floors and other historic touches, are reducing that unit count by about half.

Concordia 27 is among a series of commercial developments proposed for the west side of North 27th Street between West Wisconsin and West Kilbourn avenues.

Wiegand plans to convert a historic former school, 2708 W. Wisconsin Ave., into Grand Avenue Suites, a 23-room extended-stay hotel. The neighboring former Tower Theater, 757 N. 27th St., is to be converted into the hotel's banquet facility.

Meanwhile, Wiegand has long-range plans to convert a former hospital complex, with a nine-story building at 2711 W. Wells St., into affordable apartments.

Also, plans are proceeding to develop a new state office building on a vacant parcel at the southwest corner of West Wisconsin Avenue and North 27th Street.

The $20 million Concordia 27 "is a big deal for the near west side and we believe it will be catalytic for the corridor," St. Arnold Bell said.

Tom Daykin can be emailed at tdaykin@jrn.com and followed on Instagram, X and Facebook.

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee development creating affordable housing, co-working space
Microsoft (MSFT) on Wednesday will begin another round in court in its multi-chapter legal defense against the FTC over its $69 billion purchase of "Call of Duty" maker Activision Blizzard.

Microsoft finalized the deal, the largest ever in the gaming market, on Oct. 13.

A court hearing in the agency's appeal of a failed injunction request is set to take place Wednesday in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

In July, the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) suspended its administrative challenge to block the acquisition.

The suspension came after a federal district court judge and a three-judge federal appellate court panel declined to grant the FTC a preliminary injunction that would have kept the tie-up from moving forward while the agency completed an investigation into antitrust concerns.

Microsoft later reached an agreement with the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to relinquish certain cloud gaming rights contained in its original plan, paving the way for the deal to close.

In its original complaint to block the deal, the FTC said that Microsoft's ownership of Activision "would enable Microsoft to suppress competitors to its Xbox gaming consoles and its rapidly growing subscription content and cloud-gaming business."

Those concerns stem in large part from the fact that the merger of the two companies makes Microsoft the third-largest video game company in the world by revenue behind Sony (SONY) and Tencent.

An image from Activision's Call of Duty is shown on a smartphone near a photograph of the Microsoft logo in this photo taken in New York, June 15, 2023. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Microsoft published a statement on Tuesday arguing the FTC should drop its challenge, pointing to 37 venture capital firms that joined together to file a "friend of the court" to endorse the deal.

In the filing, Microsoft described the FTCs legal position as a "watered-down" stance that would give the agency too much power to block transactions. Support from the venture firms, the company said, "sent a clear message" that the FTC's opposition "threatens the cycle of investment and entrepreneurship that drives Americas innovation economy."

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Although the FTC can continue to fight the deal, courts generally shy away from unraveling integrated companies. The FTC has also said it intends to continue scrutinizing the deal using its internal administrative process.

"The FTC's been down that road," Brian Quinn, a Boston College Law School professor, told Yahoo Finance.

"The remedies available include taking apart the merged companies, and that's also the remedy that nobody wants to do. No court wants to be in charge of taking a deal apart."

The protracted legal battle comes amid an aggressive push by the Biden administration over the course of the year to challenge Big Tech's dominance in various markets.

The FTC argued in a court filing in November that Microsoft's acquisition would harm consumers by restructuring the gaming industry and likely giving Microsoft the ability and incentive to deny, delay, degrade, or foreclose rivals from accessing Activision's games.

"If Microsoft is given free rein to weaponize Activision's content, emerging markets for content library subscriptions and cloud gaming will be walled off and dominated by just a few large companies," the FTC wrote in its court filing.

In addition to its pressure on Microsoft, the FTC and US Justice Department have brought or continued antitrust suits against Google (GOOG, GOOGL), Amazon (AMZN), and Facebook (META).

Alexis Keenan is a legal reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow Alexis on Twitter @alexiskweed.

Click here for the latest technology news that will impact the stock market.

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
By Gilles Guillaume

PARIS (Reuters) -Renault's long-standing alliance partners Nissan and Mitsubishi confirmed plans to invest in the French car maker's electric vehicle unit Ampere and use it to develop EVs for the European market, the companies said on Wednesday.

After years of contentious partnership, the announcement on Wednesday confirms that the new alliance between the three automakers is smaller and more pragmatic, focusing on regional cooperation.

Nissan and Mitsubishi confirmed they would invest respectively up to 600 million euros ($647.46 million) and 200 million euros in Ampere, which has been carved out from the rest of Renault and is due for a public listing next year.

Nissan will become "a strategic investor" in Ampere, Makoto Uchida, CEO of the Japanese car marker told reporters, adding the company may use the EV unit's software and connectivity innovations in other markets outside Europe.

"Developing electric vehicles all over the world alone would be very challenging," he said.

Ampere will develop and manufacture an electric version of the compact Nissan Micra for the European market and a medium-sized electric SUV for Mitsubishi.

Renault CEO Luca de Meo said Ampere will cut the costs for the Micra for Nissan by 50%.

The alliance partners also confirmed their joint projects in Latin America and India.

In September, Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi ended their common purchasing agreement, which they said would allow them to focus on individual projects and adapt more quickly to regional differences in automotive markets.

At the end of July, Renault and Nissan finalised the terms of a restructured alliance after months of negotiations.

Talks dragged on for months longer than expected due in part to Nissan, which was concerned about protecting its intellectual property in future collaborations.

($1 = 0.9267 euros)

(Reporting by Gilles Guillaume, additional reporting by Nick Carey, writing by Piotr Lipinski, editing by Silvia Aloisi and Bernadette Baum)
SALT LAKE CITY, December 06, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nomi Health ("Nomi"), a direct healthcare company, and ClearPoint Health ("ClearPoint"), a national employer benefits platform, today announced a partnership to empower small and mid-sized employers across the United States to take control of their health insurance costs.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206268366/en/

"We all deserve accessible and affordable healthcare in our communities. Unfortunately, our healthcare system is burdened by unnecessary complexity and the overwhelming costs are resulting in employers not being able to offer a meaningful health benefit to employees," said Mark Newman, CEO and co-founder of Nomi Health. "Together with ClearPoint Health, were simplifying how healthcare is paid for and delivered, and we take pride in passing these savings onto small and mid-sized employers, so they can provide an affordable plan to their employees and families."

ClearPoint and Nomi have the shared mission to lower healthcare costs by cutting unnecessary complexity within the healthcare system. As part of this effort, both companies support the growing employer-directed trend, which is proven to cut costs and improve patients care and experience by realizing the value of cutting out waste through direct to employer contracting, transparent pharmacy management and other programs aimed at creating closer employer relationships with providers. A growing number of employers nationwide are turning to self-funded models to have more control over healthcare costs.

ClearPoint is a pioneer in developing and scaling clinically integrated captives, a novel approach incorporating clinical providers in the sponsorship of medical stop loss captives offering level-funded and self-funded products. ClearPoints clinically integrated product is known as CliniCaptive, which is purpose-built for provider organizations to offer more affordable and transparent insurance options to their local employers.

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Through the CliniCaptive product, Nomi will feature its end-to-end platform of services, including its growing national network of low-cost, high-quality provider partners, pharmacy solutions, provider-centric revenue cycle management, member navigation services, and its robust reporting and analytics suite. These connected solutions create market-leading experiences, clinical outcomes, and affordability.

"Nomi and ClearPoint share an unrelenting focus on creating tangible and transparent value for employers. We both believe that healthcare is local and well leverage our shared product to promote more localized partnerships between providers and employers," said Jeb Dunkelberger, CEO of ClearPoint Health. "ClearPoints medical stop loss captive integrates perfectly with Nomis service platform. Together, were able to partner with more provider organizations and health systems as we aggregate employers seeking an alternative insurance solution that offers sustainable affordability."

ClearPoint and Nomi will be launching their partnership product across at least four distinct regions that encapsulate over 15 states in 2024, with expansion markets already planned for early 2025. Over 50 health systems are expected to announce their participation in select geographies over the next year, further expanding access to affordable insurance for employers seeking high-quality and lower cost healthcare benefits.

About ClearPoint Health

ClearPoint Health is a national employer benefits platform for small and mid-sized employers. ClearPoints core product is a medical stop loss captive, which enables employers to sustainably self-fund their insurance benefits while saving money on ancillary services and vendors. For more information, please visit www.getclearpoint.com.

About Nomi Health

Nomi Health is a nationwide healthcare programs and payments company rebuilding the U.S. healthcare system to run at half the cost. Our end-to-end platform of solutions reduces the complexity and cost of traditional healthcare for employers, governments and buyers. With over 3,000 customers, Nomis diverse portfolio provides quality data analytics, financial services solutions, and an open network of providers that delivers population care management, such as substance use disorder programs. Our cross-functional team of experienced clinical, healthcare, technology and fintech backgrounds, combined with our leading technology, we deliver distinct services to our partners and the 10.5 million people they serve. Learn more at www.nomihealth.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206268366/en/

Contacts

press@nomihealth.com

press@getclearpoint.com
OSLO (Reuters) -Norway's largest private sector labour union said on Wednesday it would later this month start blocking transit shipments of Tesla cars meant for the Swedish market, as part of a growing Nordic movement to support striking mechanics in Sweden.

Swedish unions led by IF Metall have taken industrial action against Tesla since October to try to force the U.S. electric vehicle maker to sign collective bargaining agreements with mechanics.

Dockworkers in Sweden already refuse to unload Tesla cars arriving by ship, and broad groups of Swedish electricians, cleaners, postal workers and at least one maker of auto components also said they would deny the company their services.

Norwegian union Fellesforbundet said it intended to send a "clear signal to Tesla" and do what was necessary to ensure that any vehicle shipments via Norway to Sweden were blocked, but declined to say exactly which measures it might take.

"The right to demand a collective agreement is an obvious part of our working life and we can't accept that Tesla places itself on the outside," Fellesforbundet leader Joern Eggum said in a statement.

The Norwegian union's actions would begin on Dec. 20.

Tesla has a policy of not agreeing to collective bargaining and says its employees have as good or better terms than those the Swedish union is demanding.

But Nordic labour unions say Tesla's refusal to play by long-established norms in the region challenge their power and workers' rights to negotiate wages, vacation, overtime pay and other conditions.

On Tuesday, Denmark's 3F labour union also said it would support the Swedish mechanics by refusing to unload or transport cars made by Tesla for customers in Sweden.

The Norwegian and Danish unions said their actions would only affect cars that are meant for the Swedish market.

(Reporting by Nerijus Adomaitis, editing by Terje Solsvik and Barbara Lewis)
OpenAI president Greg Brockman (left) told staff last year that he didn't expect ChatGPT to gain much traction. Steve Jennings via Getty Images; Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images

OpenAI's president did not have high hopes for the chatbot before its launch.

Greg Brockman expected ChatGPT to not get "more than one tweet thread with 5k likes," per NYT.

The company released ChatGPT two weeks after CEO Sam Altman approved its launch.

OpenAI may be riding high on the success of ChatGPT but a top executive predicted the app to make but a whimper when it launched.

The day before ChatGPT's launch on November 30, 2022, OpenAI's president Greg Brockman told his staff that he didn't expect the app to get much traction.

"No more than one tweet thread with 5k likes," the OpenAI cofounder predicted at the time, according to a story published by The New York Times on Tuesday.

ChatGPT was released about two weeks after OpenAI CEO Sam Altman approved its launch, per The Times.

According to the publication, the software behind ChatGPT, GPT 3.5, didn't have a graphical user interface (GUI) initially. This would've made it difficult for the average person to use the app. OpenAI later decided to slap on the GUI they had developed for a demo they showed Bill Gates earlier in 2022.

The company also ditched the clunkier-sounding "Chat with GPT 3.5" name, settling for just "ChatGPT."

But whatever the case, it looks like the company's gamble has paid off in spades.

OpenAI is now widely considered to be the hottest tech company in the world. Its unexpected rise has also sparked a global AI gold rush as other tech companies rushed to build their own models.

"A year ago tonight we were probably just sitting around the office putting the finishing touches on chatgpt before the next morning's launch. what a year it's been," Altman wrote in an X post on November 30.

Representatives for OpenAI did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider sent outside regular business hours.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Key Insights

Insiders appear to have a vested interest in Boustead Singapore's growth, as seen by their sizeable ownership

51% of the business is held by the top 2 shareholders

Institutions own 14% of Boustead Singapore

Every investor in Boustead Singapore Limited (SGX:F9D) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. And the group that holds the biggest piece of the pie are individual insiders with 46% ownership. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn).

With such a notable stake in the company, insiders would be highly incentivised to make value accretive decisions.

Let's take a closer look to see what the different types of shareholders can tell us about Boustead Singapore.

See our latest analysis for Boustead Singapore

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Boustead Singapore?

Many institutions measure their performance against an index that approximates the local market. So they usually pay more attention to companies that are included in major indices.

Boustead Singapore already has institutions on the share registry. Indeed, they own a respectable stake in the company. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. It is not uncommon to see a big share price drop if two large institutional investors try to sell out of a stock at the same time. So it is worth checking the past earnings trajectory of Boustead Singapore, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too.

Boustead Singapore is not owned by hedge funds. The company's CEO Fong Fui Wong is the largest shareholder with 43% of shares outstanding. Meanwhile, the second and third largest shareholders, hold 8.3% and 3.0%, of the shares outstanding, respectively.

A more detailed study of the shareholder registry showed us that 2 of the top shareholders have a considerable amount of ownership in the company, via their 51% stake.

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Researching institutional ownership is a good way to gauge and filter a stock's expected performance. The same can be achieved by studying analyst sentiments. There is some analyst coverage of the stock, but it could still become more well known, with time.

Insider Ownership Of Boustead Singapore

The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it.

I generally consider insider ownership to be a good thing. However, on some occasions it makes it more difficult for other shareholders to hold the board accountable for decisions.

It seems insiders own a significant proportion of Boustead Singapore Limited. Insiders own S$182m worth of shares in the S$399m company. 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 40% stake in Boustead Singapore. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies.

Next Steps:

I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. To that end, you should be aware of the 1 warning sign we've spotted with Boustead Singapore .

If you would prefer discover what analysts are predicting in terms of future growth, do not miss this free report on analyst forecasts.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Oxford Industries Inc (NYSE:OXM) sees a 4% increase in third-quarter sales, reaching $327 million.

GAAP EPS for the quarter stands at $0.68, with adjusted EPS at $1.01, both showing a decrease from the prior year.

Johnny Was acquisition contributes to sales growth, while full-price direct-to-consumer sales rise by 9%.

Oxford Industries Inc (NYSE:OXM) moderates its full-year guidance, citing a cautious consumer environment.

On December 6, 2023, Oxford Industries Inc (NYSE:OXM) released its 8-K filing, announcing financial results for the fiscal third quarter ended October 28, 2023. The company, which owns prominent brands such as Tommy Bahama, Lilly Pulitzer, and Johnny Was, reported a 4% increase in consolidated net sales to $327 million compared to the same period last year. However, both GAAP and adjusted EPS experienced a decline, with GAAP EPS falling from $1.22 to $0.68 and adjusted EPS decreasing from $1.46 to $1.01 year-over-year.

Financial Performance Overview

Despite a challenging market, Oxford Industries Inc (NYSE:OXM) managed to achieve a modest increase in sales, attributed in part to the addition of Johnny Was, which was acquired on September 19, 2022. Full-price direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales grew by 9%, including a significant contribution from Johnny Was. However, the company's other businesses saw a 3% aggregate decrease in full-price DTC sales.

Tommy Bahama and Lilly Pulitzer, two of Oxford's flagship brands, experienced sales declines of 5% and 9%, respectively. Conversely, the Emerging Brands group saw a 16% increase in sales. Gross margin on a GAAP basis slightly decreased to 62.9% from 63.2% in the previous year, primarily due to a higher LIFO accounting charge. Adjusted gross margin, however, expanded to 64.0% from 63.4%, benefiting from the higher-margin Johnny Was sales and a shift in sales mix towards direct-to-consumer transactions.

Operational Highlights and Future Outlook

Oxford Industries Inc (NYSE:OXM)'s SG&A expenses rose to $195 million from $175 million, largely due to the inclusion of Johnny Was expenses. Operating income decreased to $14 million, or 4.4% of net sales, from $27 million in the prior year. The company has moderated its full-year guidance, now expecting net sales between $1.570 billion and $1.590 billion, with GAAP EPS between $9.25 and $9.45, and adjusted EPS between $10.10 and $10.30.

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The company's balance sheet reflects a decrease in inventory levels and a strong cash flow from operations, which allowed for significant capital expenditures, dividend payments, share repurchases, and debt reduction. Oxford Industries Inc (NYSE:OXM) also declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.65 per share, maintaining its long-standing tradition of dividend payments since 1960.

Management Commentary

Tom Chubb, Chairman and CEO, remarked on the company's ability to deliver solid results amidst a cautious consumer environment.

We are pleased to deliver another quarter of solid results which were squarely in our sales and EPS forecast ranges and come on top of 12% positive comps during the same period last year,"

Chubb stated. He also expressed gratitude towards the company's team for their exceptional efforts.

Investor Considerations

Value investors and potential GuruFocus.com members should note that while Oxford Industries Inc (NYSE:OXM) has demonstrated resilience in a challenging market, the decline in EPS and moderated guidance may reflect ongoing market uncertainties. The company's strategic acquisitions and focus on direct-to-consumer sales could offer potential growth avenues, but investors should weigh these against broader economic factors and consumer spending trends.

Oxford Industries Inc (NYSE:OXM) will hold a conference call to discuss these financial results and provide further insights into the company's performance and strategy.

Explore the complete 8-K earnings release (here) from Oxford Industries Inc for further details.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Ideally, your overall portfolio should beat the market average. But the main game is to find enough winners to more than offset the losers So we wouldn't blame long term Singapore Post Limited (SGX:S08) shareholders for doubting their decision to hold, with the stock down 52% over a half decade.

Now let's have a look at the company's fundamentals, and see if the long term shareholder return has matched the performance of the underlying business.

See our latest analysis for Singapore Post

While markets are a powerful pricing mechanism, share prices reflect investor sentiment, not just underlying business performance. One imperfect but simple way to consider how the market perception of a company has shifted is to compare the change in the earnings per share (EPS) with the share price movement.

Looking back five years, both Singapore Post's share price and EPS declined; the latter at a rate of 22% per year. The share price decline of 14% per year isn't as bad as the EPS decline. So investors might expect EPS to bounce back -- or they may have previously foreseen the EPS decline.

You can see how EPS has changed over time in the image below (click on the chart to see the exact values).

We know that Singapore Post has improved its bottom line lately, but is it going to grow revenue? This free report showing analyst revenue forecasts should help you figure out if the EPS growth can be sustained.

What About Dividends?

It is important to consider the total shareholder return, as well as the share price return, for any given stock. The TSR is a return calculation that accounts for the value of cash dividends (assuming that any dividend received was reinvested) and the calculated value of any discounted capital raisings and spin-offs. So for companies that pay a generous dividend, the TSR is often a lot higher than the share price return. In the case of Singapore Post, it has a TSR of -46% for the last 5 years. That exceeds its share price return that we previously mentioned. And there's no prize for guessing that the dividend payments largely explain the divergence!

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A Different Perspective

We regret to report that Singapore Post shareholders are down 13% for the year (even including dividends). Unfortunately, that's worse than the broader market decline of 2.3%. Having said that, it's inevitable that some stocks will be oversold in a falling market. The key is to keep your eyes on the fundamental developments. Regrettably, last year's performance caps off a bad run, with the shareholders facing a total loss of 8% per year over five years. We realise that Baron Rothschild has said investors should "buy when there is blood on the streets", but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality business. It's always interesting to track share price performance over the longer term. But to understand Singapore Post better, we need to consider many other factors. For example, we've discovered 1 warning sign for Singapore Post that you should be aware of before investing here.

For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket.

Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on Singaporean 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.
Dr Gianrico Farrugia, the President and CEO of Mayo Clinic, withDr George Cheriyan at Mayo Clinic in October 2023.

An international consulting team representing Mayo Clinic, Rochester, US, visited the facilities of the American Mission Hospital (AMH) and the Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland - Medical University of Bahrain (RCSI-MUB), in Busaiteen, recently to assess the AMH academic work stream and the ongoing collaboration between Bahrains two healthcare organisations.

The newly opened King Hamad American Mission Hospital (KHAMH) in AAli  which is the fifth and the largest of our AMH facilities - is also the official teaching hospital for the students of RCSI-MUB, said Dr George Cheriyan, AMHs Corporate CEO.

Thanks to the wise leadership of this nation, which aims to improve the overall healthcare delivery in the Kingdom of Bahrain, a year-long engagement with Mayo Clinic has also begun, he added.

Mayo Clinic was ranked No 1, among the World's Best Hospitals 2023, by Newsweek-Statistas Global Hospital Ratings, this year.

Dr Deepak Abraham, who took up his role as the hospitals Chief of Medical Staff in February, said: The Mayo Clinic engagement spans three work streams: governance, academics and quality. The governance workstream visit was completed in June 2023, and it was followed by the visits of AMH board members and AMH leadership teams to the Mayo Clinic in October.

According to a statement from the hospital, the Mayo Clinic assessment, held during 14-16 November 2023, included visits to various facilities and also interactions with the leaders of the organisations.

It involved discussions around the existing partnership for student rotations, internship programs, and the future establishment of residency programs, said Dr Abraham.

The RCSI has established a Clinical Trials Unit at the King Hamad American Mission Hospital, which will help in placing Bahrain on the world map by bringing cutting edge multicentric Phase II and Phase III clinical trials to Bahrain, he added.

We are impressed with the close association of the two institutions in Bahrain, which clearly promises an enhancement in the level of medical education offered in the kingdom, said Ben Langholz, the Principal Analyst of Mayo Clinic International Consulting.

Consulting team member Bob Speary, the Operations Administrator from the Education Services of Mayo Clinic, said: Mayo Clinic is committed to help AMH as they strive to pursue the establishment of postgraduate training programs in select specialties in the kingdom.

The academic work stream assessment culminated in the first Symposium of Pediatrics held on November 19 at KHAMH in AAli, with an expert faculty from Mayo Clinic, Dr Seema Kumar, who spoke and held panel discussions with 10 other speakers.

Dr Kumar, the Chair of Mayo Clinics Pediatric Endocrinology Division and the Program Director for the Pediatric Endocrinology Fellowship, gave two lectures -- one on tackling childhood obesity in the Middle East and Bahrain and another on the management of type-1 diabetes in children and the latest technologies in diabetes management. - TradeArabia News Service
Digital bank enhances user experience and benefits from Alkami's wide partner network

PLANO, Texas, Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Alkami Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALKT) ("Alkami"), a leading cloud-based digital banking solutions provider for financial institutions in the U.S., announced today that Quontic Bank , the adaptive digital bank, has launched the Alkami Digital Banking Platform, converting the bank's customer base to Alkami's single platform for online banking. As a purely digital bank, a best-in-class web and mobile presence is business-critical for Quontic Bank. The Bank's decision to leverage Alkami's Digital Banking Solution speaks to its commitment to delivering a seamless user experience for its retail customers.

Alkami Logo (PRNewsfoto/Alkami Technology, Inc.)

Through the Alkami Digital Banking Platform, Quontic Bank and its customers will benefit from enhanced account opening capabilities and data analytics that can drive improved engagement. Due to Alkami's commitment to an open ecosystem and wide partner network, Quontic Bank can also easily work with other leading providers in the market.

"We chose to work with Alkami because their fully open and integrated digital banking solution plays well with third parties, and allows us to provide our customers with speed and control for all their financial transactions. This partnership positions us to compete not only with our neighboring banks, but also with the major neobanks and other fintechs that continue to emerge," said Grace Pace, senior vice president at Quontic Bank. "Alkami's user-centric approach to design convinced us that they were a partner that could ensure we deliver the level of service and personal engagement that our customers expect and deserve."

"Quontic Bank keeps a close pulse on the diverse and evolving needs of its customers, exemplified by its trailblazing mindset in the financial services space. In today's challenging market, banks must embrace innovation, and we look forward to supporting Quontic Bank's growth through a leading-edge, intuitive digital banking experience that stands up to what customers could expect from the largest financial institutions," said Stephen Bohanon, co-founder, chief product and strategy officer at Alkami.

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About Alkami

Alkami Technology, Inc. is a leading cloud-based digital banking solutions provider for financial institutions in the United States that enables clients to grow confidently, adapt quickly, and build thriving digital communities. Alkami helps clients transform through retail and business banking, digital account opening, payment security, and data analytics and marketing solutions. To learn more, visit www.alkami.com .

About Quontic Bank

Quontic is the adaptive digital bank that empowers its customers financially while embracing their diverse circumstances. Quontic's innovative banking platform reimagines traditional banking with adaptive lending and innovative deposit products that transcend legacy banking inequities. Quontic's mission to break the system for financial empowerment stands in the face of big banks and proves there is a better and more equitable way to put the customer first. The bank focuses on truly understanding and serving the underdogs, entrepreneurs, gig-economy workers, immigrants, and more with a curated banking experience as opposed to a one-size-fits-all banking approach.

Quontic is a privately held company based in New York, New York.

For additional information or to download the Quontic app, visit www.quontic.com .

Media Relations Contacts

Vested

alkami@fullyvested.com

Marla Pieton

marla.pieton@alkami.com

Quontic Bank

pr@quonticbank.com

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/quontic-bank-launches-alkamis-digital-banking-solution-302007900.html

SOURCE Alkami Technology, Inc.
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The new economic powerhouses and fastest-growing cities are not the ones they used to be. So long New York and San Francisco. Houston, Dallas, Miami and Nashville are on track to becoming the next hot spots in the U.S., according to Barrons.

See: Im a Millennial and I Make $2,000 a Month in Passive Income  Heres How I Do It

Read: Pocket an Extra $400 a Month With This Simple Hack

You used to have two coastal power zones where you could live your best life, never really touching down in the red states, Niall Ferguson, a Stanford historian, told Barrons. We now have much more of a multipolar America rather than a bipolar America. That reflects taxes, quality of life, cost of living, the ability to build, and incredibly striking differentials in quality of governance. If you talk to people who have done the great relocation, theyll tell you how much better things are done in Miami or Palm Beach or Austin or Dallas.

Maximize Your Paycheck: Best Banks for Early Direct Deposit

And this has had many detrimental consequences for some states. For instance, as Bloomberg reported, the finance industrys exodus from New York and California has caused both states $1 trillion of assets  triggered by the loss of thousands of high-paying jobs, straining city and state finances by sapping tax revenue.

In terms of the four faster-growing power cities  Houston with its energy economy, Dallas and its diversified base, Nashville with healthcare and tech and Miami as a burgeoning financial center and gateway to Latin America  they have a lot in common, according to Barrons.

Nashville

Factors contributing to Nashvilles rapid growth and status as an economic powerhouse include local start-ups, companies relocating headquarters out of California and tech giants establishing major satellite operations beyond Silicon Valley, according to The Tennessean.

New facilities from Amazon, Meta and Oracle are being built in the region, all of which will create thousands of new job opportunities, it added.

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Houston

This is the fifth-largest metropolitan area in the U.S. and home to 26 Fortune 500 companies, according to Barrons and the Greater Houston Partnership.

Thanks to ExxonMobil, Phillips 66 and ConocoPhillips being based in Houston, as much as 40% of the citys economy is tied directly or indirectly to oil and gas, Business Insider reported. Houston is also home to NASA.

Dallas

Dallas had the biggest jump in population of any U.S. metro area last year, according to Barrons. Local airports serve 148 U.S. and 55 international cities.

Its on fire right now, Eurasia Group founder and president Ian Bremmer told Barrons.

Bremmer said that Dallas has inexpensive energy, massive entrepreneurship and a very permissive regulatory environment.

Miami

The city serves as headquarters of Latin America operations for more than 1,100 multinational companies, according to Barrons.

The citys population increased by 1.7% from 2021 to 2022, the fourth-fastest rate among the 50 largest U.S. cities, Insider noted.

Even Jeff Bezos moved there last month after 29 years in Seattle, according to an Instagram post last month noting that he wanted to live closer to his parents. Also, Blue Origins operations are increasingly shifting to Cape Canaveral, he wrote in the post.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Real Estate: 4 Fast-Growing Cities With Exponential Job Growth Opportunities
To find a multi-bagger stock, what are the underlying trends we should look for in a business? Firstly, we'll want to see a proven return on capital employed (ROCE) that is increasing, and secondly, an expanding base of capital employed. Put simply, these types of businesses are compounding machines, meaning they are continually reinvesting their earnings at ever-higher rates of return. Speaking of which, we noticed some great changes in Focus Dynamics Group Berhad's (KLSE:FOCUS) returns on capital, so let's have a look.

What Is Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)?

Just to clarify if you're unsure, ROCE is a metric for evaluating how much pre-tax income (in percentage terms) a company earns on the capital invested in its business. Analysts use this formula to calculate it for Focus Dynamics Group Berhad:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.012 = RM1.8m  (RM254m - RM101m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2023).

So, Focus Dynamics Group Berhad has an ROCE of 1.2%. Ultimately, that's a low return and it under-performs the Hospitality industry average of 5.7%.

See our latest analysis for Focus Dynamics Group Berhad

roce

While the past is not representative of the future, it can be helpful to know how a company has performed historically, which is why we have this chart above. If you want to delve into the historical earnings, revenue and cash flow of Focus Dynamics Group Berhad, check out these free graphs here.

So How Is Focus Dynamics Group Berhad's ROCE Trending?

The fact that Focus Dynamics Group Berhad is now generating some pre-tax profits from its prior investments is very encouraging. About five years ago the company was generating losses but things have turned around because it's now earning 1.2% on its capital. In addition to that, Focus Dynamics Group Berhad is employing 243% more capital than previously which is expected of a company that's trying to break into profitability. This can indicate that there's plenty of opportunities to invest capital internally and at ever higher rates, both common traits of a multi-bagger.

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On a side note, we noticed that the improvement in ROCE appears to be partly fueled by an increase in current liabilities. The current liabilities has increased to 40% of total assets, so the business is now more funded by the likes of its suppliers or short-term creditors. It's worth keeping an eye on this because as the percentage of current liabilities to total assets increases, some aspects of risk also increase.

Our Take On Focus Dynamics Group Berhad's ROCE

In summary, it's great to see that Focus Dynamics Group Berhad has managed to break into profitability and is continuing to reinvest in its business. Given the stock has declined 68% in the last five years, this could be a good investment if the valuation and other metrics are also appealing. With that in mind, we believe the promising trends warrant this stock for further investigation.

Since virtually every company faces some risks, it's worth knowing what they are, and we've spotted 3 warning signs for Focus Dynamics Group Berhad (of which 2 don't sit too well with us!) that you should know about.

While Focus Dynamics Group Berhad may not currently earn the highest returns, we've compiled a list of companies that currently earn more than 25% return on equity. Check out this free list here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
What trends should we look for it we want to identify stocks that can multiply in value over the long term? Firstly, we'll want to see a proven return on capital employed (ROCE) that is increasing, and secondly, an expanding base of capital employed. If you see this, it typically means it's a company with a great business model and plenty of profitable reinvestment opportunities. So when we looked at Telekom Malaysia Berhad (KLSE:TM) and its trend of ROCE, we really liked what we saw.

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. Analysts use this formula to calculate it for Telekom Malaysia Berhad:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.11 = RM1.9b  (RM23b - RM5.5b) (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2023).

Thus, Telekom Malaysia Berhad has an ROCE of 11%. On its own, that's a standard return, however it's much better than the 8.8% generated by the Telecom industry.

See our latest analysis for Telekom Malaysia Berhad

roce

In the above chart we have measured Telekom Malaysia Berhad's prior ROCE against its prior performance, but the future is arguably more important. If you're interested, you can view the analysts predictions in our free report on analyst forecasts for the company.

What The Trend Of ROCE Can Tell Us

Telekom Malaysia Berhad has not disappointed with their ROCE growth. The figures show that over the last five years, ROCE has grown 221% whilst employing roughly the same amount of capital. So it's likely that the business is now reaping the full benefits of its past investments, since the capital employed hasn't changed considerably. It's worth looking deeper into this though because while it's great that the business is more efficient, it might also mean that going forward the areas to invest internally for the organic growth are lacking.

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Our Take On Telekom Malaysia Berhad's ROCE

To sum it up, Telekom Malaysia Berhad is collecting higher returns from the same amount of capital, and that's impressive. And with the stock having performed exceptionally well over the last five years, these patterns are being accounted for by investors. In light of that, we think it's worth looking further into this stock because if Telekom Malaysia Berhad can keep these trends up, it could have a bright future ahead.

If you'd like to know more about Telekom Malaysia Berhad, we've spotted 2 warning signs, and 1 of them doesn't sit too well with us.

For those who like to invest in solid companies, check out this free list of companies with solid balance sheets and high returns on equity.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Goliath Resources Limited

TORONTO, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Goliath Resources Limited (TSX-V: GOT) (OTCQB: GOTRF) (FSE: B4IF) (the Company or Goliath) is pleased to report that Mr. Rob McEwen has agreed to increase his personal ownership in Goliath by purchasing an aggregate of approximately 1,428,571 units upon completion of a non-brokered private placement. His first investment in Goliath was on October 2, 2023 through a non-brokered private placement representing a 2.4% ownership on a partially diluted basis. This will be Mr. McEwens second investment within two months that will increase his ownership to 5% on a partially diluted basis upon completion of his purchase.



Crescat Capital will be exercising their pre-emptive right and have agreed to also purchase units upon completion of the non-brokered private placement to maintain their 18.4% ownership.

The Companys proposed non-brokered private placement is up to 2,597,403 charity flow-through units (CFT Units) at a price of $1.155 per CFT Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $3,000,000 (the CFT Offering).

Each CFT unit will consist of one (1) common share that will qualify as a flow-through share within the meaning of Subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the Act) and one (1) common share purchase warrant (each, a Warrant), with each Warrant entitling the holder thereof to purchase one (1) common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.85 per share for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance. It is expected that the CFT Offering will close prior to December 31, 2023.

Mr. McEwen is the founder and former Chairman of Goldcorp where he discovered, built, and operated the Red Lake Mine in Ontario which was acquired by Newmont Mining in 2019 for US$10 billion. Mr. McEwen is currently the Chairman and Chief Owner of McEwen Mining Inc., a gold and silver producer with operations in Nevada, Canada, and Mexico.

We are very pleased to have Mr. McEwens continued support by increasing his personal ownership in Goliath within a few short months since his initial investment. As well, we appreciate Crescat Capitals ongoing guidance and their participation in our financings to maintain its position as the largest long-term shareholder. This further demonstrates our projects continue to attract experienced miners and smart long-term investors states Mr. Roger Rosmus, Founder & CEO, We look forward to Mr. McEwens and Crescats further input and guidance as we drill out the Surebet discovery and continue to unlock shareholder value from our extensive land package.

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About Crescat Capital LLC

Crescat is a global macro asset management firm headquartered in Denver, Colorado. Crescats mission is to grow and protect wealth over the long term by deploying tactical investment themes based on proprietary value-driven equity and macro models. Crescats goal is industry leading absolute and risk-adjusted returns over complete business cycles with low correlation to common benchmarks. Crescats investment process involves a mix of asset classes and strategies to assist with each clients unique needs and objectives and includes Global Macro, Long/Short and Precious Metals funds.

Crescat is advised by Dr. Quinton Hennigh, its geologic and technical director on investments in gold and silver resource companies. Dr. Hennigh became an economic geologist after obtaining his PhD in Geology/Geochemistry from the Colorado School of Mines. He has more than 30 years of exploration experience with major gold mining firms that include Homestake Mining, Newcrest Mining and Newmont Mining. Recently, Dr. Hennigh founded Novo Resources Corp., and is currently serving as Co-Chairman. Among his notable project involvements are First Mining Golds Springpole gold deposit in Ontario, Kirkland Lake Golds acquisition of the Fosterville gold mine in Australia, the Rattlesnake Hills gold deposit in Wyoming, and Lion Ones Tuvatu gold project on Fiji, among many others.

The Company intends to use the proceeds raised from the CFT Offering for exploration, drilling and related programs on Goliaths Golddigger and Lucky Strike properties located in and around the Golden Triangle of northwestern British Columbia.

The gross proceeds of the CFT offering will be used for Canadian exploration expenses as such term is defined in paragraph (f) of the definition of Canadian exploration expense in Subsection 66.1(6) of the Act, flow-through mining expenditures as defined in Subsection 127(9) of the Act that will qualify as flow-through mining expenditures, and B.C. flow-through mining expenditures as defined in Subsection 4.721(1) of the Income Tax Act (British Columbia), which will be incurred on or before December 31, 2024, and renounced with an effective date no later than December 31, 2023.

In connection with the CFT Offering, the Company may pay a finders fee to eligible arms length parties. The finders fee may consist of a cash fee equal to 6% of the gross proceeds of the CFT Offering and finders warrants (each, a Finders Warrant) equal to 6% of the CFT Units issued pursuant to the CFT Offering. Each Finders Warrant shall entitle the holder to acquire one Common Share at a price of $0.85 per common share for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance.

All securities issued and sold under the CFT Offering will be subject to a hold period expiring four months and one day from their date of issuance. Completion of the CFT Offering and the payment of any finders' fees remain subject to the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

Golddigger Property

The Golddigger Property is 100 % controlled covering an area of an area of 61,685 hectares (152,427 acres) and is in the world class geological setting of the Eskay Rift within the Golden Triangle of British Columbia and within 3 kilometers of the Red Line that is host to multiple world class deposits. With over 65,000 meters of diamond drilling in aggregate to date at the newly discovered Surebet Zone, the Company has confirmed an area of 1.8 square kilometers of multiple highly mineralized stacked zones containing Bonanza gold grades that remains open.

The Surebet discovery has exceptional metallurgy with gold recoveries of 92.2% inclusive of 48.8% free gold from gravity alone at a 327-micrometer crush (no deleterious elements and no cyanide required to recover the gold based on metallurgical work completed to date).

It is in an excellent location close in proximity to the communities of Alice Arm and Kitsault where there is a permitted mill site on private property. It is situated on tide water with direct barge access to Prince Rupert (190 kilometers via the Observatory inlet/Portland inlet). The town of Kitsault is accessible by road (190 kilometers from Terrace, 300 kilometers from Prince Rupert) and has a barge landing, dock, and infrastructure capable of housing at least 300 people, including high-tension power. Additional infrastructure in the area includes the Dolly Varden Silver Mine Road (only 7 kilometers to the East of the Surebet discovery) with direct road access to Alice Arm barge landing (18 kilometers to the south of the Surebet discovery) and high-tension power (25 kilometers to the East of Surebet discovery).

The city of Terrace (population 16,000) provides access to railway, major highways, and airport with supplies (food, fuel, lumber, etc.), while the town of Prince Rupert (population 12,000) is located on the west coast and houses an international container seaport also with direct access to railway and an airport with supplies.

Lucky Strike Property

The Goldsource and Bullseye targets are fully permitted for drilling and are situated on Goliaths 100% controlled Lucky Strike property located near Terrace in northwestern British Columbia. It sits within a world class geological terrane of the Skeena Arch, a belt-scale structural corridor that is associated with significant porphyry and related mineralization. The property is within 2 kilometres of logging access roads with direct access to hydro-power and paved highway in close proximity to major infrastructure in Terrace B.C.

About Goliath Resources Limited

Goliath Resources Limited is an explorer of precious metals projects in the prolific Golden Triangle of northwestern British Columbia and Abitibi Greenstone Belt of Quebec. All its projects are in world class geological settings and geopolitical safe jurisdictions amenable to mining in Canada.

For more information please contact:

Goliath Resources Limited

Mr. Roger Rosmus

Founder and CEO

Tel: +1-416-488-2887

roger@goliathresources.com

www.goliathresourcesltd.com

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on Goliaths current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the ability of the Company to complete financings and its ability to build value for its shareholders as it develops its mining properties. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to Goliath. Although such statements are based on management's reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that the proposed transactions will occur, or that if the proposed transactions do occur, will be completed on the terms described above.

The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof and Goliath is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.

This announcement does not constitute an offer, invitation, or recommendation to subscribe for or purchase any securities and neither this announcement nor anything contained in it shall form the basis of any contract or commitment. In particular, this announcement does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities in the United States, or in any other jurisdiction in which such an offer would be illegal.

The securities referred to herein have not been and will not be 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 or for the account or benefit of a U.S. person (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN.




Saudi Arabia may flood the oil market next year Gety

Saudi Arabia may wage a "market share war" against the US and flood oil markets with supply, energy expert Paul Sankey said.

That would mark a reversal from Riyadh's strategy of curbing production to boost oil prices.

"You've got to attack the guy that's making the marginal decision to drill or not  and that guy is Mr. Permian Basin."

Saudi Arabia is struggling to boost oil prices with production cuts and may soon make a dramatic reversal aimed at the US, according to energy expert Paul Sankey.

In an interview with Business Insider, he said Saudi Arabia may pivot to ramping up production to flush the market with a flood of supply in the first half of 2024. And that's not to target emerging producers like Guyana or Brazil.

"You've got to attack the guy that's making the marginal decision to drill or not  and that guy is Mr. Permian Basin," Sankey said, referring to the US shale epicenter.

He later added, "I think to be specific, it's a market share war."

Saudi Arabia is currently producing about 2.5 million barrels a day below maximum capacity. If the country follows through with additional supplies that sink crude prices, the goal would be to essentially "bankrupt" the US industry by making it unprofitable to drill oil, Sankey explained. It's a tactic Riyadh used in 2014 and 2020 to regain control over oil prices.

And right now, the set-up is similar to both earlier episodes, the market veteran said. There's a lack of support from the rest of OPEC as countries like the UAE keep producing more oil while Iran is eating into Saudi's share of Chinese crude oil imports. And then there's weakening demand, like what happened during Covid.

"In all three instances you've had the biggest problem, arguably, which is that the US is just making highs and new highs and even further highs in terms of its own production," Sankey said.

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US crude production has exploded this year and recently hit a record high of 13.2 million barrels a day, according to the Energy Information Administration.

Meanwhile, global energy markets have become skeptical that OPEC+ is serious about its latest pledges to curb production. After the cartel's meeting last week, when members vowed to extend cuts, oil prices fell.

Its weakening hold over oil markets was on display again this week. On Monday, the Saudi energy minister told Bloomberg TV that production cuts could go past the first quarter. On Tuesday, the Kremlin also talked tough. But oil prices dropped further.

Sankey declined to comment on whether he has heard about plans to increase production from Saudi officials. But the time to act may come soon.

"I think what will happen is they'll wait through winter to see what's going on and maintain, as they've said, into Q1, their cuts," he said. "And then if things start to weaken from there, they're going to have to decide what they're going to do."

Read the original article on Business Insider
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Sven Hoppe/picture alliance via Getty Images

Silicon Valley has a new mantra.

The saying originated from Sam Altman in 2021 but has been repeated recently by various key players.

Altman's statement harks back to Mark Zuckerberg's "move fast and break things" motto.

Silicon Valley hasn't quite moved on from its "move fast and break things" mentality  but it does have a newer mantra that's more representative of the AI era.

Long before ChatGPT hit the market, Sam Altman tweeted this in 2021: "Move faster. Slowness anywhere justifies slowness everywhere. 2021 instead of 2022. This week instead of next week. Today instead of tomorrow. Moving fast compounds so much more than people realize."

Altman followed the post up with a recommendation to be "extremely thoughtful" when moving at speed.

Though he may not have known how AI would impact the world at the time, Altman's statement is still common in the tech world almost three years later.

The emphasis on speed and innovation that was encapsulated by the quote proved popular with founders and CEOs, gaining traction on platforms like X, formerly Twitter.

"I think about this a lot," Vercel CEO Guillermo Rauch said in a November response to Altman's post. "This should be your default operating mode."

The sentiment was echoed in a subsequent Microsoft memo about OpenAI last year, The New York Times reported.

"Speed is even more important than ever," Sam Schillace, a top Microsoft exec, wrote to employees after the launch of ChatGPT. He said it would be an "absolutely fatal error in this moment to worry about things that can be fixed later."

Altman's statement and the way it's been put into practice harks back to Mark Zuckerberg's infamous "move fast and break things" mantra. The Silicon Valley motto, popularized by Facebook in its early years, spoke to an ethos of rapid innovation, disruption, and enthusiasm in Silicon Valley.

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Work was meant to be approached with an emphasis on speed and experimentation, with little regard for any potential negative consequences. For Facebook, now Meta, these consequences included user privacy concerns, security issues, and unintended societal impacts.

In response to several major scandals, the tech giant later modified the saying to "move fast with stable infrastructure" in an attempt to recognize the need for a more responsible approach to progress.

Now, amid an AI arms race, the tech world is once again focused on speed and shipping products.

Altman has made similar comments since.

"Momentum is everything in a startup," he said. "Startups that win keep winning, and startups that lose keep losing."

Altman's OpenAI had its first major win with its AI-powered chatbot, ChatGPT. The unprecedented popularity of the bot rocked major tech companies, including Google, Meta, and Tesla.

Microsoft's hefty investment and close partnership with the AI lab lit a fire under its old competitors, especially Google. In the wake of the launch, the tech world's focus shifted from a slow and steady AI approach to an intense race to ship products at pace.

But just as Zuckerberg's mantra overlooked some pressing concerns, the rush by various tech companies to release unpredictable AI-powered products has led to embarrassing slip-ups.

The first version of ChatGPT had far from perfect safeguards and the bot was found to emit racist and sexist content in its first few weeks.

It was also very easily jailbroken by tech-savvy users. One workaround just involved telling the chatbot to ignore its content moderation.

Microsoft's eagerness to get one up on Google Search also led to an AI-powered Bing that was downright creepy at first. At Google, the company's first public demo of its ChatGPT rival, Bard, made an embarrassing factual error.

The mistakes made by both companies' products highlighted serious underlying concerns around the tech including AI bias, safety, and the spread of misinformation, but neither company has been eager to hit the breaks on development.

Zuckerberg's "move fast, break things" mantra may have been declared dead in the wake of Meta's Cambridge Analytica scandal 2019 scandal.

Given that today's big AI players are ramping up development, however, despite mounting concerns about its pace, we can only assume that Silicon Valley has not learned from the mistakes of the past.

Read the original article on Business Insider
SHANGHAI, China, December 06, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The sixth CIIE, which concluded on November 10, was another fruitful event as the value of intended deals reached during the six-day expo hit $78.41 billion, which is 6.7 percent higher than the previous year.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206834884/en/

The sixth China International Import Expo concluded on November 10 in Shanghai (Photo: Business Wire)

The sixth CIIE comprised the Business Exhibition, the Country Exhibition, the Hongqiao International Economic Forum, a slew of supporting activities as well as people-to-people cultural exchange events.

This year's expo saw an impressive gathering of participants from 154 countries, regions and international organizations.

Over 3,400 enterprises, including 289 of the world's top 500 enterprises and industry giants, showed off a record number of new products, technologies and services. Over 400 technologies, high-tech products, and innovative services made their debuts at the big show.

The sixth CIIE also welcomed over 750 trade missions. More than 600 intended deals were reached at 96 project signing ceremonies.

The Country Exhibition hosted 72 countries and international organizations to showcase their scientific and technological achievements, culture and art in Shanghai. Among them were 11 first-time attendees, including Bahrain, the Central African Republic, the Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Honduras, Mali, Oman, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Zimbabwe.

The sixth Hongqiao International Economic Forum, which included 22 sub-forums, had a record attendance of more than 8,000 participants.

A record number of sub-forums were co-hosted by international organizations such as the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the UN Development Programme (UNDP), and the UN Global Compact.

The seventh edition of the CIIE is now gearing up for a new round of global road shows from December 4 to 12. The first stops are three European countries: Switzerland, Austria and France.

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According to France-based Schneider Electric, which attended the CIIE for the sixth time, the company had signed deals with more than 30 companies at this year's expo, up 24 percent from the previous year.

"In the past, our business was mainly in the manufacturing and construction industries. This year, it has expanded to more than 10 industries including energy, commercial construction and life sciences. We look forward to more collaborations with China to achieve mutual benefits," a representative from the company said.

So far, more than 100,000 square meters of exhibition area has already been booked for the seventh CIIE in 2024. Grab your spot now at: https://www.ciie.org/exhibition/f/book/register?locale=en&from=press

Webseite: http://www.ciie.org/zbh/de/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ciieonline

Twitter: https://zwitschern.com/ciieonline

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206834884/en/

Contacts

Ms. Cui Yan

Tel.: 0086-21-968888

Email: exhibition@ciie.org
Justice Department Announces Charges in Connection with Foiled Plot to Assassinate U.S. Citizen in New York City

Today in the Southern District of New York, a superseding indictment was unsealed alleging murder-for-hire charges against Indian national Nikhil Gupta, aka Nick, 52, in connection with his participation in a foiled plot to assassinate a U.S. citizen in New York City. Czech authorities arrested and detained Gupta on June 30, 2023 pursuant to the bilateral extradition treaty between the United States and the Czech Republic.

According to court documents, earlier this year, an Indian government employee (CC-1), working together with others, including Gupta, in India and elsewhere, directed a plot to assassinate on U.S. soil an attorney and political activist who is a U.S. citizen of Indian origin residing in New York City (the Victim).

Gupta is an Indian national who resides in India, is an associate of CC-1 and has described his involvement in international narcotics and weapons trafficking in his communications with CC-1 and others. CC-1 is an Indian government agency employee who has variously described himself as a Senior Field Officer with responsibilities in Security Management and Intelligence, and who also has referenced previously serving in Indias Central Reserve Police Force and receiving officer[] training in battle craft and weapons. CC-1 directed the assassination plot from India.

In or about May 2023, CC-1 recruited Gupta to orchestrate the assassination of the Victim in the United States. The Victim is a vocal critic of the Indian government and leads a U.S.-based organization that advocates for the secession of Punjab, a state in northern India that is home to a large population of Sikhs, an ethnoreligious minority group in India. The Victim has publicly called for some or all of Punjab to secede from India and establish a Sikh sovereign state called Khalistan, and the Indian government has banned the Victim and his separatist organization from India.

At CC-1s direction, Gupta contacted an individual whom Gupta believed to be a criminal associate, but who was in fact a confidential source working with U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) (the CS), for assistance in contracting a hitman to murder the Victim in New York City. The CS introduced Gupta to a purported hitman, who was in fact a DEA undercover officer (the UC). CC-1 subsequently agreed in dealings brokered by Gupta to pay the UC $100,000 to murder the Victim. On or about June 9, CC-1 and Gupta arranged for an associate to deliver $15,000 in cash to the UC as an advance payment for the murder. CC-1s associate then delivered the $15,000 to the UC in Manhattan.

In or about June 2023, in furtherance of the assassination plot, CC-1 provided Gupta with personal information about the Victim, including the Victims home address in New York City, phone numbers associated with the Victim, and details about the Victims day-to-day conduct, which Gupta then passed to the UC. CC-1 directed Gupta to provide regular updates on the progress of the assassination plot, which Gupta accomplished by forwarding to CC-1, among other things, surveillance photographs of the Victim. Gupta directed the UC to carry out the murder as soon as possible, but Gupta also specifically instructed the UC not to commit the murder around the time of anticipated engagements scheduled to occur in the ensuing weeks between high-level U.S. and Indian government officials.

On or about June 18, masked gunmen murdered Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a Sikh temple in British Columbia, Canada. Nijjar was an associate of the Victim, and like the Victim, was a leader of the Sikh separatist movement and an outspoken critic of the Indian government. On or about June 19, the day after the Nijjar murder, Gupta told the UC that Nijjar was also the target and we have so many targets. Gupta added that, in light of Nijjars murder, there was now no need to wait on killing the Victim. On or about June 20, CC-1 sent Gupta a news article about the Victim and messaged Gupta, [i]ts [a] priority now.

Gupta is charged with murder-for-hire and conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire. Each count carries a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The DEAs New York Division and the Counterintelligence Division of the FBIs New York Field Office are investigating the case, with valuable assistance provided by the DEAs Special Operations Division, DEAs Vienna Country Office, FBIs Prague Country Office, Justice Departments Office of International Affairs, and Czech Republics National Drug Headquarters.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Camille L. Fletcher, Ashley C. Nicolas, and Alexander Li for the Southern District of New York are prosecuting the case with assistance from Trial Attorneys Christopher Cook and Robert McCullers of the National Security Divisions Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, as well as Trial Attorney A.J. Dixon of the National Security Divisions Counterterrorism Section.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This story has been published on: 2023-12-06. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Kasperskys detection systems have discovered an average of 411,000 malicious files every day, which is an increase of nearly 3% in 2023 compared to the previous year.

Particular types of threats also escalated: experts observed a marked surge of 53% in attacks involving malicious Microsoft Office and other types of documents.

Attackers leaned towards more dangerous tactics, such as utilising backdoors to infiltrate systems undetected. These insights, detailed in the Kaspersky Security Bulletin: Statistics of the Year Report, underscore the evolving landscape of cyber threats.

Windows primary target

In 2023, Kasperskys systems detected almost 125 million malicious files in total. Windows continued to be the primary target for cyberattacks, accounting for 88% of all malware-filled data detected daily. Malicious families disseminated through various scripts and different document formats ranked among the top three threats, accounting for 10% of all malicious files detected daily.

Average daily number of malicious files detected by Kaspersky security solutions from 2019 to 2023 (January 1 to October 31)

Kasperskys detection systems discovered a rather significant daily increase of malicious files in various document formats  for instance, Microsoft Office, PDF, etc.  rising by 53% to about 24,000 files. The growth may be linked to a rise in attacks utilising phishing PDF files, designed to pilfer data from potential victims.

Trojans widespread

The most widespread type of malware continues to be trojans. This year, there has been a notable uptick in the use of backdoors, registering a growth from 15,000 detected files per day in 2022 to 40,000 in 2023. Backdoors stand out as one of the most hazardous types of trojans, providing attackers with remote control over a victims system to carry out tasks such as sending, receiving, executing, and deleting files, as well as harvesting confidential data and logging computer activity.

The cyberthreat landscape continues to evolve, becoming more dangerous year after year. Adversaries continue to develop new malware, techniques and methods to attack organisations and individuals. The number of vulnerabilities reported is also growing annually, and threat actors including ransomware gangs use them without hesitating.

Furthermore, the entry barrier into cybercrime is now being lowered due to the proliferation of AI, which attackers use, for example, to create phishing messages with more convincing texts. In these times, it is essential both for large organisations and for every regular user to embrace reliable security solutions. Kaspersky experts are dedicated to tackling these ever-evolving cyberthreats, ensuring a secure online experience for users every day and providing vital threat intelligence about relevant threats, comments Vladimir Kuskov, Head of Anti-Malware Research at Kaspersky.

The discoveries are based on Kaspersky detections of malicious files from January to October and are part of Kaspersky Security Bulletin (KSB)  an annual series of predictions and analytical reports on key shifts within the cybersecurity world. Follow this link to learn more.

Kaspersky offers tips to users and organisations to stay protected.

Users

Do not download and install applications from untrusted sources.

Do not click on any links from unknown sources or suspicious online advertisements.

Create strong and unique passwords, including a mix of lower-case and upper-case letters, numbers, and punctuation, as well as activating two-factor authentication.

Always install updates. Some of them may contain critical security issue fixes.

Ignore messages asking to disable security systems for office or cybersecurity software.

Use a robust security solution appropriate to your system type and devices, such as Kaspersky Premium.

Organisations

Always keep software updated on all the devices to prevent attackers from infiltrating your network by exploiting vulnerabilities.

Establish the practice of using strong passwords to access corporate services. Use multi-factor authentication for access to remote services.

Choose a proven endpoint security solution such as Kaspersky Endpoint Security for Business that is equipped with behaviour-based detection and anomaly control capabilities for effective protection against known and unknown threats.

Use a dedicated set for effective endpoint protection, threat detection and response products to timely detect and remediate even new and evasive threats. Kaspersky Optimum Security the essential set of endpoint protection empowered with EDR and MDR.

Use the latest Threat Intelligence information to stay aware of actual TTPs used by threat actors.--TradeArabia News Service
Solvento releases a new software offering. (Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves)

Latin American fintech startup Solvento on Wednesday announced the release of Solvento Audita, an AI-powered auditing and invoicing software to provide invoicing transparency throughout the supply chain.

As part of the launch, Solvento also announced it has taken on a $50 million debt facility from investment platform Lendable along with raising a $3.5 million seed extension led by Quona Capital, with participation from Dynamo Ventures, Ironspring Ventures, Proeza Ventures, and Zenda VC to expand its current Latin American lending product.

We unfortunately still live in a paper world, said Jaime Tabachnik, co-founder and CEO of Solvento. Shippers dont benefit from eliminating the paperwork because the inefficient process often gains them more time to pay. That is why we believe in our mission of acquiring this working capital to make these processes digital. Recognition of the root cause of slow payments has inspired us because we believe we can break these paradigms, push digitization and hugely impact the Latin American economy.

Mexico City-based Solvento has raised $10 million in equity since its founding in 2021. The company has also paid back $3 million from a previous debt facility.

By leveraging APIs into transportation management systems and other popular Latin American applications like WhatsApp, Solvento Audita can automatically recognize and verify the documentation required for invoicing, ensuring the accuracy of the information requested from shippers. This automated process replaces the common manual practice undertaken by shippers and brokers.

Regulations need AIs support

Tabachnik said Mexican tax regulations have become more complex, needing AI more than ever for proper invoicing.

We believe the most risks in the industry come from internal fraud and human error. The best practice to avoid those problems is to provide an outside auditor and technology to find those errors. Solvento Audita adds both of those to your workflows creating a sole source of truth, Tabachnik told FreightWaves.

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The Carta Porte, mandated by the Mexican Tax Administration Service (SAT) since January 2022, is a digital document accompanying the Digital Tax Receipt by Internet (CFDI) to improve control over goods transportation in Mexico. Applicable across various transport modes, it replaces traditional documents like CFDI and waybills, facilitating the digitization of processes. All entities engaged in transporting goods bear the responsibility of ensuring accurate reporting.

Enforcement of an updated version, Carta Porte 3.0, began on Nov. 25, with a grace period until Jan. 1, providing users with time to adjust to modifications to enhance the completeness and accuracy of consignment note information.

One reasoning behind these regulatory changes is to mitigate contraband issues and fraud, which are also challenges afflicting domestic supply chains in the United States.

This is a huge opportunity for Mexico to be the biggest trading partner with the U.S. and drive all this new investment. We are very excited to show companies how much profit they are missing out on with the software we have built. We are also very excited to have an incredible social impact by helping carriers grow their business that has lacked access to working capital for decades, Tabachnik said.

Articles by Grace Sharkey

Mexico truck driver strike delayed after officials, carriers reach deal

Borderlands: Truck driver salaries in Mexico averaged $4,400 in 2022

5 things Mexico must do to win at nearshoring

The post Solvento pushing digitization with invoicing software, $53.5M in debt and new funding appeared first on FreightWaves.
Arizona has attracted more foreign investment than any other state, including the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. plant under construction in Phoenix.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. and union officials representing construction workers have agreed on a framework for cooperation at the company's north Phoenix complex, cooling some tensions between the two sides.

The accord, announced Wednesday between TSMC Arizona and the Arizona Building and Construction Trades Council, outlines priorities for building the facility and installing machinery.

It covers training, safety, communication and foreign workers.

The complex near Dove Valley Road and 43rd Avenue represents the largest single foreign direct investment in Arizonas history. TSMC Arizona's factories, or fabs, will feature the most advanced semiconductor technology in the United States, creating thousands of permanent jobs.

The construction phase for the $40 billion project has been under way since 2021 and has resulted in thousands of prevailing-wage jobs for members of the trades council.

Roughly 12,000 construction workers, union and nonunion, are on site most days. Common positions include pipefitters, electricians, sheet metal workers, sprinkler fitters, iron workers, concrete workers and carpenters. That's in addition to a much smaller number of foreign workers tasked mainly with installing complex machinery, some of which hasn't been placed inside U.S. fabs before.

The trades council has been critical of the company over various issues, including an allegation that the latter was bringing in less-skilled workers from Taiwan. American workers also have raised allegations of safety issues. An Arizona Republic investigation revealed that state inspectors have found few workplace safety violations at the construction site.

President Biden toured the facility almost exactly one year ago.

Accord addresses safety, foreign workers

Among highlights of the agreement, the trades council pledged to recruit a sufficient number of skilled workers to fulfill manpower requirements, and TSMC Arizona would cooperate in the development of union workforce training programs and curricula.

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The goal is to build a construction workforce that can support TSMC Arizona for the near and long term.

The agreement also called for a renewed commitment to safety, with TSMC Arizona agreeing to share information with AZBTC on safety assessments, audits, incident records and improvement plans.

In terms of communication, the company and trades council will form a committee that will hold quarterly meetings, one of which will be held annually to project future workforce needs. The committee will consist of members designed by affiliated trades council unions and those designated by the company and its contractors.

Another provision recognizes circumstances that might require TSMC Arizona or its vendors to employ foreign workers with specialized experience, though the company said it remains focused on hiring local workers.

Safety concerns at construction site: Here's what Arizona's inspectors found

Both sides praise agreement

Todays agreement is a win for Arizona workers and the construction timeline of TSMC Arizona, said Aaron Butler, trades council president, in a prepared statement. AZBTC and TSMC Arizona have shown that when we come together to focus on our workers and developing the skills of the future, our state has much to gain.

Brian Harrison, president of TSMC Arizona, called the trades council a vital partner in the construction of the companys advanced semiconductor manufacturing complex.

AZBTC union members have the critical skills necessary to help us complete our two advanced-chipmaking fabs, and we look forward to embarking together on a new chapter of partnership and collaboration, he said, also in a prepared statement.

In addition to construction workers, roughly 2,200 full-time TSMC employees work at the complex. The first fab is scheduled to start operating during the first half of 2025, a slight delay from a preliminary estimate of late 2024.

In August, the office of Gov. Katie Hobbs helped to facilitate a voluntary protection program for the TSMC Arizona construction project involving the Arizona Department of Occupational Safety and Health. Among other points, it calls for on-site visits throughout the year, 10 hours of training for all managers, plus technical assistance and workshops provided by ADOSH.

The state also announced funding and other support for construction trades apprenticeships through its BuilditAZ Initiative.

Federal officials also have been monitoring relations between company and union leaders, given the importance of the TSMC Arizona project in reinvigorating the U.S. semiconductor industry.

Reach the writer at russ.wiles@arizonarepublic.com.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: TSMC, union officials reach workplace deal on staffing, safety in AZ
Thor Industries Inc (NYSE:THO) announces Q1 fiscal 2024 earnings with net sales of $2.50 billion, a 19.5% decrease from the previous year.

Gross profit margin declined to 14.3%, with net income at $53.6 million and diluted EPS at $0.99.

Despite market headwinds, THO reaffirms its full-year fiscal 2024 outlook, emphasizing operational execution and strategic initiatives.

On December 6, 2023, Thor Industries Inc (NYSE:THO) released its 8-K filing, outlining the financial results for the first quarter of fiscal year 2024. The company reported a decrease in net sales to $2.50 billion, down from $3.11 billion in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year. The consolidated gross profit margin also saw a decline, dropping to 14.3% from 15.7% year-over-year (YOY). Net income attributable to THO and diluted earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter were reported at $53.6 million and $0.99, respectively, compared to $136.2 million and $2.53 in the first quarter of fiscal 2023.

Segment Performance and Financial Highlights

THO's North American Towable RVs segment experienced a 28.3% decrease in net sales and a 39.7% decrease in gross profit, with gross profit margin falling to 12.5%. Income before income taxes in this segment dropped by 55.6%. The North American Motorized RVs segment saw a 36.7% decrease in net sales and a 57.3% decrease in gross profit, with gross profit margin declining to 11.2%. Income before income taxes plummeted by 70.2%. Conversely, the European RVs segment reported a 40.4% increase in net sales and a 78.4% increase in gross profit, with gross profit margin improving to 17.3%. Income before income taxes turned positive, reaching $28.8 million compared to a loss in the prior year.

Despite the challenging market conditions, THO's management remains focused on maintaining profitability and adapting to market changes.

Our experienced operating teams remain focused on prudently managing cost structures and enacting commercial strategies to adapt to evolving market conditions,"

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stated Bob Martin, President and CEO of THO.

Operational Execution and Strategic Focus

THO's operational execution has been highlighted as a key factor in navigating the current RV market environment. The company continues to work closely with independent dealers to manage inventory levels and respond to market demand. Todd Woelfer, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the company's commitment to a variable cost model and strategic initiatives to enhance future performance.

Colleen Zuhl, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, noted the company's financial flexibility, with liquidity of more than $1.40 billion, and the continuation of shareholder capital return through dividend increases and share repurchases.

Outlook and Guidance

THO reaffirms its full-year fiscal 2024 guidance, projecting consolidated net sales between $10.5 billion and $11.0 billion, a consolidated gross profit margin between 14.5% and 15.0%, and diluted EPS in the range of $6.25 to $7.25. The company acknowledges the potential impact of future macroeconomic conditions on its forecast.

In conclusion, THO's first quarter fiscal 2024 results reflect the resilience of its business model amidst a challenging environment. While the company faces headwinds, its reaffirmed guidance and strategic focus on operational execution and profitability suggest a commitment to long-term growth and shareholder value.

Explore the complete 8-K earnings release (here) from Thor Industries Inc for further details.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


What are the best MBA programs at HBCUs? MBA Stack compiled a top ten list based on data from the Wall Street Journal, U.S. News, and other sources. MBA Stack photo

From Houston, Texas: Historically Black Colleges and Universities hold significant importance for several reasons. HBCUs were established during a time of racial segregation and limited access to education for Black Americans. These institutions provided opportunities for African Americans to receive higher education when other institutions barred their admission.

HBCUs have a rich history and legacy of promoting educational equity and social progress, making them an integral part of American history and culture. These institutions continue to empower generations of Black students, foster academic excellence, and contribute to the larger goal of achieving educational equity and social progress. HBCU MBA programs, in particular, provide African-American students equal opportunities for specializing and advancing their proficiency in business.

To find the top HBCU MBA programs, we collected data on the best colleges and universities in the country. To do this, scores were collected from the Wall Street Journal, Quacquarelli Symonds, U.S. News and World Report, and Forbes. We then identified the best colleges and universities identified as HBCUs by the National Center for Education Statistics. The ranking order of this list is based on the averaged scores from the four ranking systems. Students can rest assured that every school on this list is a prestigious HBCU institution with a top MBA program.

See Poets&Quants coverage of minority enrollment at the leading U.S. business schools.

Read more

80% of new cohort in Georgetowns Environment & Sustainability Management masters identifies as female

From Washington, D.C.: The MS-ESM Class of 2024, which is the second cohort of the 11-month interdisciplinary program at Georgetown, consists of a diverse range of students who hail from various professional backgrounds, areas of academic interest, and regions of the world.

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Of the 53-person cohort, 80% of students self-identify as female, which is the highest level of female representation across all of McDonoughs graduate degree programs. This is the second year in a row the program has surpassed gender parity  last years inaugural cohort was 60% female.

Kerrie Carfagno, co-academic director of the MS-ESM program, is proud of the growing number of women enrolled in the program. She said its important to see women who are working in the environmental and sustainability fields as leaders in the business world.

This is a really exciting time for the MS-ESM program, Carfagno says. We are pleased to welcome a diverse group of individuals who are looking to create long lasting positive change in corporate, governmental, nonprofit sectors, and beyond. Having more women in business is always a win, especially when it comes to leading the charge on environmental decisions that will impact our world for generations to come.

Read more

Diverse backgrounds & industries in new McDonough Business Analytics masters cohort

From Washington, D.C.: A new class of M.S. in Business and Analytics students joined the Georgetown community this fall, increasing their representation of women, U.S. diversity, and military affiliation across a wide variety of industries and disciplines.

We are always pleased to see an increase in diversity across our programs at Georgetown McDonough and the MSBA Class of 2024 is no different, Nita Swinsick, associate dean for graduate and executive program admissions. Their diverse experiences will bring new academic and personal perspectives to the program, and we look forward to seeing what they accomplish over the coming year and beyond.

Of the 91 students in the cohort, 48% are female, up from 41% last year. The incoming class also hails from 49 different states across the United States, representing 53% U.S. diversity, up from 44% in the previous cohort, and 31% underrepresented minorities. The program continues to maintain a strong population of students with military affiliation at 13%.

There is tremendous value in understanding business analytics in the workplace, Babak Zafari, associate professor of the practice and academic director of the MSBA program. We want our graduates to leave the program well prepared to analyze data in a way that improves practical business functions and increases performance in the workplace.

Read more

DONT MISS ITS A RISKY WORLD: NEW MBA PROGRAM TO FOCUS ON FRAUD

The post The Top-Ranked MBA Programs At Historically Black Colleges & Universities appeared first on Poets&Quants.
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Dublin, Dec. 06, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Vanilla Bean Market - Forecasts from 2023 to 2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global vanilla bean market is currently seeing robust growth with an anticipated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.29% from 2023 to 2028. The demand for vanilla beans is surging in various sectors including food and beverage, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. The report offers a comprehensive understanding of the market dynamics, trends, and growth forecast during the mentioned period.

Driven by Millennials' Preferences: A Surge in Organic Vanilla Bean Demand

The market for vanilla beans is experiencing significant growth due to shifting consumer preferences toward high-quality, organic, and chemical-free products. The impact of these preferences is especially pronounced among millennials, who place high importance on the taste and quality of their food products. The trend toward organic food products and the rejection of GMOs have contributed to an increase in the market for organic vanilla beans globally. African countries such as Madagascar, which produce the majority of the world's vanilla supply, are tapping into this trend by favoring natural cultivation methods free from fertilizers or pesticides.

Shifting Consumption Patterns Boost the Natural Vanilla Market

Consumer purchasing habits are ever-evolving, and there is a notable shift toward natural flavourings in food products. This is largely due to an increasing awareness and preference for foods that are free from synthetic chemicals and additives. With the continuous demand for authentic and natural flavours, the natural vanilla bean sector is witnessing substantial expansion.

Asia Pacific Market Outlook: The Rise in Disposable Income Augments Vanilla Bean Sales

The Asia Pacific region is seeing significant growth in the vanilla bean market, driven by rising disposable incomes and urbanization. This has led to an enhanced propensity to spend on natural food items, which is facilitating the market's expansion. Moreover, improvements in retail infrastructure and online services in countries like China, India, and Australia are making natural flavourings more accessible, therefore bolstering the market size in these locales.

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The Vanilla Bean Market in Europe and Africa: Major Players and Rising Demand

Africa remains a vital player in the global vanilla market, with Madagascar leading the way in production. The continent's vast agricultural workforce provides a significant competitive advantage. Alongside Madagascar, other parts of Africa such as Tanzania and Uganda are contributing to an uptick in vanilla cultivation and benefiting financially from the growing vanilla market.

In Europe, the United Kingdom and France are prominent consumers of vanilla with growing industries, including food and beverage, and personal care, augmenting the demand for vanilla beans. Germany also ranks among the major consumers adding to the market strength in the region.

Innovation and Consumer Trends Shape Future Market Developments

Key manufacturers in the vanilla bean market are focusing on product innovation to cater to evolving consumer demands. The market is set to benefit from technological advancements and research and development, which are likely to lead to breakthroughs in vanilla cultivation and processing.

Understanding Market Segmentation

The report delves into the vanilla bean market's segmentation, providing insights into product types, which include raw, processed, and spiced vanilla beans, nature of the products which are categorized as organic and conventional, and end-use sectors such as food, beverages, cosmetics and personal care, pharmaceutical, nutraceuticals, and household/retail. The geographical analysis further segments the market into North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and the Asia Pacific regions.

This comprehensive analysis of the vanilla bean market illuminates the growth strategies of key players, emerging trends, and the future direction of the market. Stakeholders and businesses operating in related domains will find this report essential for making informed decisions and capitalizing on market opportunities.

Key Player Profiles:

Symrise AG

Eurovanille

Takasago International Corp.

Synergy Flavors Inc.

Archer Daniels Midland Co.

Venui Vanilla

Nielsen-Massey Vanillas Inc.

Tharakan and Company

Lemur International Inc.

Apex Flavors Inc.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/mux5m

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.

CONTACT: CONTACT: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900




BARCELONA, Spain, December 06, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Wallbox (NYSE:WBX), a leading provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging and energy management solutions worldwide, today announced its participation in an upcoming DC Fast Charging Webcast for the investor community.

On Wednesday, December 13th at 10:00am ET, Till Wilmschen, Director of Product - DC Fast Charging at Wallbox will join George Gianarikas of Canaccord Genuity to discuss the importance of DC fast charging, customer preferences, Wallboxs unique DC product portfolio, and key differentiating product features.

Interested investors should reach out to their Canaccord Genuity sales contact. A replay link will be posted shortly after conclusion of the event in the Events and Presentations section of the Investor Relations website at Investors.wallbox.com.

About Wallbox

Wallbox is a global technology company, dedicated to changing the way the world uses energy. Wallbox creates advanced electric vehicle charging and energy management systems that redefine the relationship between users and the network. Wallbox goes beyond charging electric vehicles to give users the power to control their consumption, save money and live more sustainably. Wallbox offers a complete portfolio of charging and energy management solutions for residential, semi-public, and public use in more than 100 countries around the world. Founded in 2015 in Barcelona, where the companys headquarters are located, Wallbox currently has offices across Europe, Asia, and America. For more information, visit www.wallbox.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231206241042/en/

Contacts

Wallbox Investor Contact:

Matt Tractenberg

VP, Investor Relations

Matt.Tractenberg@wallbox.com

+1 404-574-1504

Wallbox Public Relations Contact:

Elyce Behrsin

Public Relations

Press@wallbox.com

+34 622 513 358
Even when a business is losing money, it's possible for shareholders to make money if they buy a good business at the right price. For example, although Amazon.com made losses for many years after listing, if you had bought and held the shares since 1999, you would have made a fortune. But while the successes are well known, investors should not ignore the very many unprofitable companies that simply burn through all their cash and collapse.

So, the natural question for RMA Global (ASX:RMY) shareholders is whether they should be concerned by its rate of cash burn. For the purposes of this article, cash burn is the annual rate at which an unprofitable company spends cash to fund its growth; its negative free cash flow. The first step is to compare its cash burn with its cash reserves, to give us its 'cash runway'.

View our latest analysis for RMA Global

Does RMA Global Have A Long Cash Runway?

You can calculate a company's cash runway by dividing the amount of cash it has by the rate at which it is spending that cash. When RMA Global last reported its balance sheet in June 2023, it had zero debt and cash worth AU$6.5m. In the last year, its cash burn was AU$4.0m. That means it had a cash runway of around 20 months as of June 2023. That's not too bad, but it's fair to say the end of the cash runway is in sight, unless cash burn reduces drastically. You can see how its cash balance has changed over time in the image below.

How Well Is RMA Global Growing?

On balance, we think it's mildly positive that RMA Global trimmed its cash burn by 14% over the last twelve months. And operating revenue was up by 14% too. Considering the factors above, the company doesnt fare badly when it comes to assessing how it is changing over time. While the past is always worth studying, it is the future that matters most of all. For that reason, it makes a lot of sense to take a look at our analyst forecasts for the company.

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How Easily Can RMA Global Raise Cash?

While RMA Global seems to be in a fairly good position, it's still worth considering how easily it could raise more cash, even just to fuel faster growth. Companies can raise capital through either debt or equity. Many companies end up issuing new shares to fund future growth. By comparing a company's annual cash burn to its total market capitalisation, we can estimate roughly how many shares it would have to issue in order to run the company for another year (at the same burn rate).

RMA Global's cash burn of AU$4.0m is about 8.9% of its AU$45m market capitalisation. That's a low proportion, so we figure the company would be able to raise more cash to fund growth, with a little dilution, or even to simply borrow some money.

So, Should We Worry About RMA Global's Cash Burn?

RMA Global appears to be in pretty good health when it comes to its cash burn situation. Not only was its cash runway quite good, but its cash burn relative to its market cap was a real positive. Cash burning companies are always on the riskier side of things, but after considering all of the factors discussed in this short piece, we're not too worried about its rate of cash burn. Taking an in-depth view of risks, we've identified 3 warning signs for RMA Global that you should be aware of before investing.

If you would prefer to check out another company with better fundamentals, then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt or this list of stocks which are all forecast to grow.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Fans in Fremont of the iconic Will Ferrell holiday film Elf will have an opportunity to see the made-for-the-stage version of the touching, laugh-inducing Christmas comedy next week when Elf, The Musical, is presented in a three-day run at the Fremont Opera House.

Lee Meyer, executive director of the Fremont Opera House, said the 20-person cast of adults and children thespians have been rehearsing the production for more than a month.

It is the stage version (of Elf film) with music and dancing. It is about an elf who keeps growing and then Santa has to finally tell him he is a human and he has to go out and find his own family, Meyer said of the plot of the popular comedy. I am directing the show. It features cute costumes and it is all community (actors). We have a plethora of actors, they are from Fremont and there are a few from Omaha and Gretna.

Meyer was passionately guiding the cast through rehearsals of the production on Monday, Dec. 4, inside the Fremont Opera House, encouraging the thespians of all ages to dance and sing the assorted musical numbers that mark the stage version.

A veteran of the local community theater scene, Meyer has masters degrees in both music and theater from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and she was formerly the director of Fremont High Schools theater program.

Meyer said she regularly peruses the internet for new productions and plays that can be acquired to produce locally, such as Elf, The Musical.

I thought it would be good for the community and we got the rights to perform it, Meyer said. The plot is basically the same as the film, but they added a lot of dancing and music. It is a brand new (stage) show. This is the first year you could do it.

The stage production is set for three showings: at 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 15; at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 16; and at 1:30 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 17, all at the Fremont Opera House, located at 541 N. Broad St.

Tickets cost $20 for adults, $15 for students with identification, and they can be purchased in-person at the Wise Olde Owl gift store, at 516 N. Main St. or online at fremontoperahouse.org. The productions major sponsors include Sid Dillon automotive dealerships as well as the RVR Bank.

The cast of the production is composed of both Fremont actors as well as thespians from nearby communities. Kaleb Jorgensen portrays Buddy the elf while Doyle Schwaniger plays the real Santa Claus. Others in the cast include: Bill Bishop, Callan Burke, Olivia Chromy, Ansleigh Ellis, Joshua Foreman, Rebekah Foreman, Nora Gallatin, Andrew Garrison, Cindi Lamprecht, Christian Madora, Bob Misfeldt, Rod Mottl, Jacqueline Opheim, Jessica Palmquist, Diana Paseka, Julie Riecken, Emily Schultz and Lexi Webb.

Meyer said she and the cast are thankful for the community support, especially funding from Sid Dillon dealerships and RVR Bank.

Those partners have been wonderful, Meyer said of the two primary sponsors. We have been rehearsing for a little over a month. Weve put in a lot of time and effort and hope there is good attendance.
The Salvation Army of Fremont is asking for the communitys support on two important local initiatives.

First is a toy drive being conducted by Methodist Fremont Health (450 E. 23rd St.) from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7. The Salvation Army of Fremont needs volunteers to help staff this drive, collect donated toys as donors bring them by, and assist with hauling the toys over to The Salvation Army office at 707 N. I St.

Second is an ongoing need for volunteers to ring the bells at The Salvation Armys iconic red kettles stationed around Fremont. Donations stay local and help individuals and families in need in Fremont  both during the holidays and in the year ahead. Volunteer shifts are available through Dec. 23. Sign up online at registertoring.com.

Donating to The Salvation Army of Fremont also can be done online at fremontredkettle.org.
In an official written response to a complaint filed against him with the Colorado Independent Ethics Commission, Monument Mayor Mitch LaKind last month disputed allegations that he violated state ethics laws.

" The record clearly shows that at all times (LaKind's) actions upheld the public trust, furthered the interests of the Town of Monument and thus the people of Colorado, and complied with all applicable standards of disclosure," the mayor, through Town Attorney Bob Cole, wrote in an official complaint response dated Nov. 22.

Former town Trustees Kelly Elliott and Darcy Schoening and Amy Stephens, a former state House majority leader and a former trustee's wife, filed the complaint Aug. 7.

It alleges the mayor violated state ethics laws by improperly influencing town councilmembers last spring on a matter of personal or private interest to himself, and by engaging in a conflict of interest at an April 11 meeting in which the council disputed a report finding the town had violated state campaign finance law.

The conflict traces back to a November 2022 ballot issue seeking voter approval of Monument's home-rule charter, which gives citizens more control over matters of local governance. Allegations surfaced that officials misused taxpayer money when they used town funds to print materials supporting the ballot question, thereby violating Colorado's Fair Campaign Practices Act.

The Monument Town Council, previously known as the board of trustees, opened an investigation into the matter in December 2022, which ultimately resulted in two contrasting reports.

An initial report by Castle Rock attorney Grant Van Der Jagt found funds had been misused and "the procedural integrity of the entire (home-rule charter) election" had been compromised as a result. The council voted to "disavow" his findings in favor of a report compiled by Lakewood attorney Cole, who was hired in January as the town's interim attorney and is now serving as the town attorney.

The board passed a resolution endorsing Cole's second, less critical report.

His report conceded a violation had occurred when the town's Citizens for Home Rule Charter issue committee spent more than $2,500 on signs and door hangers related to the ballot measure, urging townspeople to "Vote Yes." But Monument had reimbursed those funds and corrected itself, Cole's report said, therefore resolving the issue. Directly contradicting Van Der Jagt's finding, the report states this misuse of funds had no effect on the election's validity.

Then mayor-elect, LaKind was the sole dissenting council vote to hire Van Der Jagt in December 2022. Weeks later, he hired his own attorney from the Sherman & Howard law firm to consult on the matter. The Town Council on April 3 approved the payment of LaKind's $20,737 bill using Monument town dollars and, on April 11, approved a resolution that officially sanctioned the payment.

LaKind recused himself from the votes, but he was present during the executive session discussions, according to the ethics complaint. Executive sessions are closed to the public.

LaKind's response states the council never discussed in executive session April 3 the town's payment of the Sherman & Howard invoice.

According to meeting minutes for the April 11 Town Council meeting, Town Attorney Cole "declared executive session stayed within the topic" of various discussion items, including the resolution to authorize payment of the invoice, but "did not go into detail of the resolutions proposed."

During open session at both the April 3 and April 11 meetings, the Town Council  excluding LaKind, who meeting records show recused himself both times  voted to approve the payment using town dollars.

"The Town Council, absent the involvement of Mayor LaKind, was the appropriate decision maker on this question. The Town Council determined that the services rendered by Sherman & Howard provided public benefit to the Town of Monument. That legislative determination is reasonable and supported by the record. The decision to pay Sherman & Howard, even though Mayor LaKind was not specifically authorized in advance to engage their services, served a public, not a private or personal interest," the Nov. 22 response states.

LaKind, too, complied with state law regarding conflicts of interest disclosures for both the April 3 and April 11 Town Council meetings, he said in the response.

He correctly filed a written disclosure of a potential conflict of interest for the April 11 meeting, when the council anticipated it may need LaKind's participation to reach a quorum and conduct business because of planned council absences, according to the response. Ultimately, quorum was met, and LaKind did not participate in the vote to authorize payment of the legal invoice on April 11.

Because the council anticipated making quorum even without LaKind's participation in related matters at the April 3 meeting, LaKind did not file a written disclosure of a potential conflict of interest for that meeting, the response states. Meeting records "clearly indicate" LaKind disclosed his personal interest, did not vote, and did not try to influence other councilmembers in either the April 3 meeting's open or executive sessions, according to the response.

Now in receipt of LaKind's response to the complaint, the Colorado Independent Ethics Commission will begin its official investigation.

A hearing will be held at a future date, in which both parties can present evidence and arguments to state ethics commissioners, who will then decide whether LaKind violated ethics laws.
The front row of the courtroom was filled Tuesday with people holding photographs of family members identified or still missing from Return to Nature Funeral Home as Jon and Carie Hallford made their first in-person court appearance in El Paso County.

The couple, facing charges in the improper storage of 190 bodies at a building in Penrose, was in court following previous virtual advisements. The courtroom was packed to watch the Hallfords receive court dates for their preliminary hearings in January, when they will face 250-plus felony charges relating to abuse of a corpse, forgery, theft and money laundering.

Abby Swoveland held up a photo of her late mother Sally Swoveland, identified among the bodies found at the Penrose facility.

"I will be at every single court appearance," she said after the hearing. "I feel good about today because I was sure to hold my mom's picture up, and I saw them see it. That meant everything to me, that they had to look at it."

Swoveland's mother was identified among the remains found in Penrose after complaints led authorities to discover what court records have described as "abhorrent conditions" at the scene in October.

Some of the remains had death dates as far back as 2019, according to an affidavit. Families were told their loved ones were cremated, receiving substitute materials that were not their ashes, according to previous Gazette reporting and allegations in court documents.

Swoveland said that since receiving word on the positive identification she's been able to have her mother properly cremated and held another service.

"She's back with us now," Swoveland said.

Michelle Johnston, also watching in court Tuesday, has not been as fortunate yet with recovering her late husband Ken. She was in tears describing how the uncertainty has affected her grief process, which started seven months ago when her Vietnam War veteran husband died at home from COVID-19 complications.

"I feel like I'm in this waiting phase, and I can't really move on," she said.

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Both women said they have connected with other family members of victims, forming Facebook groups and connecting over shared anger.

"It's not something ... that anyone understands. It's such a weird situation," Swoveland said. "But to have support from other people who are experiencing this same thing makes a huge difference."

Swoveland said she and other family members are also planning to push for reform at the state level. She said she met with a lawmaker last week via Zoom to talk about how Colorado could change its funeral home regulations, which are some of the most lax in the country.

"The work still needs to continue with our laws here in Colorado and making them tougher," Swoveland said. "This illustrates that, and we owe it to all of the victims."

Heather DeWolf held up a photo of her late son, Zach DeWolf, who died in 2020 at age 33. Return to Nature handled his remains, according to The Associated Press.

I dont view them honestly as human at this point. I dont believe a human could do this, DeWolf said.

Though her son's remains had yet to be identified among the many discovered at the facility, she feared the worst: The container she had rocked like a baby, thinking it was her son's ashes, had some other material inside.

"I had not rocked with him since he was a child. And I could put my arms around him and just hold him, DeWolf told The Associated Press, her eyes watering. And now, looking back, I dont know if I was rocking my son or rocking concrete.

How the bodies allegedly were mishandled remained unknown to the public as defense attorneys objected Tuesday to prosecutors' request to unseal affidavits. El Paso County Magistrate Hilary Gurney said she would defer the decision to a future judge overseeing the case.

The Hallfords were arrested in Oklahoma in November after allegedly fleeing Colorado to avoid prosecution.

Jon Hallford next court appearance, a preliminary hearing, is scheduled Jan. 4. Carie Hallford's preliminary hearing is scheduled Jan. 11.

The Hallfords are each being held on $2 million bail at the El Paso County jail.
Police are searching for answers after several shots were reported at a house in a cul-de-sac in east Colorado Springs Monday night.

Police said in an online blotter entry that they found a house on 6200 block of Cording Court, near the intersection of North Powers Boulevard and Barnes Road, "had been shot several times."

None of the occupants was seriously injured, according to police.

"The case has been assigned to detectives who are in the very early stages of their investigation," department spokesperson Ira Cronin said Tuesday.

Anyone with information is asked to call 719-444-7000 or Crimestoppers.
The Colorado Springs Police Department has released the identity of a man who was killed, possibly in attempting to rob two other people, in the 800 block of Musket Road on Saturday.

The man who died has been identified by the El Paso County Coroner's Office as Marcus Plummer, 19, of Denver. CSPD says Plummer may have been attempting to rob two men at an apartment complex with a firearm.

A preliminary police investigation suggests Plummer was shot after a struggle with one of the men. One of the alleged victims of the robbery also sustained gunshot wounds but is expected to survive. Police say they are investigating Plummer's death as a homicide.

Police have not released the identities of the other two men involved in the incident.

The Homicide Unit has assumed the investigation, and is looking for tips. Anyone with information can call CSPD at 719-444-7000 or the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 719-634-STOP (7867) or 1-800-222-8477.
While local officials welcomed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 1,690-page final rule that, for the first time, will regulate methane emissions from the oil and gas industry nationwide, the latter's representatives in Colorado called it punitive and unnecessary.

Some also complained that the rule will grant investigatory authority to non-governmental organizations, such as environmental groups, to monitor for methane emissions and demand that operators repair leaks, and take away power from the state.

Supporters say its a long-awaited move that establishes limits on methane pollution from both new and existing oil and gas sources.

Critics counter that its a regulatory overreach that applies unconstitutional and illegal provisions, which will damage oil and gas companies and usurp states' pollution management authority.

Colorado is well ahead of the methane game, according to state officials.

Indeed, the Colorado General Assembly has in the last few years enacted stringent new laws regulating oil and gas operations that preceded the EPA rule.

An initial review shows the federal rule would support and mirror multiple actions the division has taken over the past decade, Leah Schleifer, spokesperson for the Colorado Air Pollution Control Division, told The Denver Gazette. Colorado has long been a leader in reducing methane emissions from oil and gas operations, and the division is committed to advancing this vital work.

On the other hand, Western Energy Alliance President Kathleen Sgamma said the new rule is unwarranted.

The oil and natural gas industry has a four-decade record of success reducing methane emissions, Sgamma said in a news release. Despite that success and the role the industry plays in ensuring sustainable, reliable energy, EPA has finalized a punitive rule that exceeds its lawful authority.

Since 2005, the oil industry has reduced methane emissions 13%, even as oil production has increased 53% and natural gas production spiked by 101%, said Sgamma. She pointed out that using natural gas in the power sector has reduced emissions by 58%, compared to the wind and solar sector's contribution at 42%.

Supporters said the rule is crucial to address the climate crisis.

With these new methane standards, the Biden administration is taking a crucial step forward to address the climate crisis, Manish Bapna, president of the Natural Resources Defense Council, said in a statement. Its long past time for the oil and gas industry to check its wells and equipment for leaks and then repair them.

Meanwhile, Fred Krupp, president of the Environmental Defense Fund, said American now "has the most protective methane pollution limits on the books.

The rule grants investigatory authorities to non-government actors to monitor for methane emissions, a provision that Denver environmental attorney Paul Seby described as illegally usurping the states regulatory authority.

Seby said it empowers private persons or groups to engage in a police-power function. That, he added, is an attempt to have private actors do what the EPA itself cannot do.

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The attorney said the rule intrudes on the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environments statutory authority to regulate emissions under the Clean Air Act. Seby said the EPA is illegally claiming an authority not granted by Clean Air Act.

(The law) says states regulate existing sources when there's a new emission standard required for a new pollutant, Seby told The Denver Gazette. It's methane, which is not regulated. These are new standards. And so, for existing sources, the Clean Air Act says the state sets the requirements, not the EPA.

The law gives the state that authority, said Seby. It doesn't give NGOs any role, and now this rule does. That's illegal because it gives them something the Clean Air Act doesn't even talk about," he said.

The other issue the new rule raises is that it creates a Fourth Amendment unlawful search and seizure violation, he said.

The rule authorizes certified third parties, such as environmental groups or other non-governmental organizations, to independently monitor emissions and notify EPA of so-called Super Emitters.

Seby speculated that one mechanism the non-government entities will use use for surveillance are satellites that detect methane emissions from space. Seby said the NGOs will contract with a satellite company and use the data to go after owners of emission sources.

The EPA doesn't have the authority to give satellite peering authority into people's property, Seby said. There are other instances where governmental entities have given search authority to non-governmental entities. The courts have struck that down as violating the Fourth Amendment. Because the prohibition of the Fourth Amendment applies to the government, the government can't get around it by giving away the search authority to a non-governmental entity."

"That's clearly illegal," he added.

Last week, U.S. Sens. John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet urged Regan, the EPA administrator, to incorporate methane emission data from advanced measurement technologies, saying they would provide a more "comprehensive picture."

Methods currently in development to incorporate top-down data at the regional and site level promise to provide more accurate total emission estimates, the senators wrote. Incorporating top-down data should not be limited to the detection and quantification of high-emitting point sources.

Colorado senators argued that methane is more potent than carbon dioxide and that "human-caused methane emissions are responsible for at least 25% of the climate warming we are experiencing today."

Hickenlooper and Bennet have been pushing for stronger methane regulations for the oil and gas industry. Earlier this year, they asked the EPA to use data from "innovative monitoring technologies like satellite imaging." They also urged the Bureau of Land Management to follow Colorado and New Mexico's "lead by eliminating routine venting and flaring from oil and gas operations on public and tribal lands."

Meanwhile, U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia complained that the EPA is "determined to target our flourishing oil and gas sector, despite its substantial progress in reducing methane emissions, irrespective of how it might impact American energy security, reliability, and consumer cost."

"This has put pressure on EPA to hastily finalize and implement these extensive new regulations, leading to proposals that lack thorough consideration and alignment," said Manchin, a Democrat from the country's fourth-largest producer of marketed natural gas. "This lack of alignment unjustly burdens industry while simultaneously hindering EPA's ability to achieve its own stated emissions reduction objectives.

Methane accounted for 12% of all U.S. greenhouse gas emissions from human activities in 2021, according to the EPA. The agency noted that methane is also emitted from natural sources, adding that natural wetlands that not managed or changed by human activity are the largest source. Smaller sources include termites, oceans, sediments, volcanoes, and wildfires, the EPA said.
Cortez Police Department Sergeant Michael Moran was honored with a procession and funeral service Wednesday.

Moran was shot while on duty during a traffic stop, and then taken to Southwest Memorial Hospital where he later died.

According to previous Gazette reporting, Moran served in the Marines for nine years, including two tours in Iraq, before joining the Cortez Police Department in 2012.

Moran became a K-9 handler in 2016. He was most proud of his canine partner Otto, who served with him until retirement in 2020.

Moran leaves behind two daughters.

"The support from the community has been moving, to say the least. Your care and concern have helped provide a much-needed foundation for the days and weeks to come and there are no words to express our gratitude," the Cortez Police Department shared in a statement on their city's website.
On Sept. 29, the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Justice Department filed a sweeping lawsuit against the state, alleging that Colorado violates the Americans with Disabilities Act by failing to adequately help eligible disabled people transition out of nursing homes.
Singapore leads the three assessment matrices, followed by other Asian countries; despite contributing to low performance, the Covid-19 pandemic was not the decisive factor

Gilberto Marques/EducacaoSP Education in Brazil has been stable since 2018



O Brazil is among the countries with the worst performance in the International Student Assessment Program (Pisa), shows the report released by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), this Tuesday, 5th. The result analyzes that the learning of Brazilian students has remained low and stable since 2009. When comparing the 2018 and 2022 tests, mathematics scores fell from 384 to 379 points; in reading, from 413 to 410; and in science, from 404 to 403, which places the country in 65th position in Mathematics, 52nd in Reading and 62nd in Science. Average results were almost the same as in 2018, with scores below the OECD average in all three areas, with small variations, classified as insignificant. The tests evaluated 15-year-old students from 81 countries around the world.

In mathematics, only 27% of Brazilian students achieved at least level 2 proficiency, significantly below the OECD average of 69%, and only 1% achieved the highest results in this area (levels 5 or 6), with the OECD average is 9%. In Asian countries such as Singapore and Japan, level 2 was achieved by more than 85% of students. When read, the report says that half of Brazilian students reached at least level 2, but only 2% achieved the highest scores in this area. The percentage was similar in science, 45% for those who achieved at least level 2, but only 1% achieved top results. The exams were administered between April and May 2022 in 606 Brazilian schools in 420 municipalities, in the 27 units of the Federation, with just over 14 thousand young people selected to participate.

At Latin America, other countries participating in the survey follow the same steps as Brazil and remain in the second part of the list, they are: Chile (position 52) followed by Uruguay (53), Mexico (57), Peru (59), Costa Rica (63 ), Colombia (64), Brazil (65), Argentina (66) and Panama (74). Chileans are the ones with the best performance in Latin America, with 412 points, which places them in 52nd place in Mathematics, 448 (37th) in Reading, 444 (43rd) in Science. Paraguay, which participated in the test for the first time, is the country with the lowest learning rate on the continent. Their scores and placements were: 338 (79th), 373 (68th) and 368 (74th), respectively. The report also compared the results of Brazilian students with those of the six best performing and five most populous countries. Among those below the OECD average (475 points) in all areas, Brazil was behind the United States and Mexico, but surpassed Indonesia and the Philippines. The results also revealed that boys outperformed girls in mathematics by 8 points, while girls outperformed boys in reading by 17 points.

Despite Brazils performance, he is not alone among those who performed unfavorably. This is because the scores of rich countries in Mathematics and Reading showed the biggest drop in history. The Pisa 2022 results show a drop in student performance that is unprecedented in the history of the study, OECD education analyst Irene Hu told journalists. The new analysis showed that one in four 15-year-olds performs poorly in Mathematics, Reading and Science. In other parts of the world, income fell, causing an unprecedented drop in the overall result, a worrying trend, according to the study. Germany, Iceland, the Netherlands, Norway and Poland, for example, recorded notably lower results in mathematics.

Asia occupies the top positions

The countries of Asia They came first in Pisa 2022. Singapore leads the three assessment matrices, which consequently led to them taking first place in the classification. The country achieved: 575 points in Mathematics, 543 points in Reading and 561 in Science. These results suggest that, on average, Singaporean students are the equivalent of between three and five years of schooling ahead, said the report. Five other Asian education systems (Macau, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea) are next in math and also score high in reading and science. In the science test, students need to show knowledge of physics, science and life on Earth and the Universe, as well as notions of scientific initiatives and explanations. In mathematics, it is necessary to formulate, apply and interpret mathematics in different contexts, while Reading requires understanding and using written texts, and also reflecting on them.

Pandemic was not the problem

Despite the isolation and restrictions that were imposed during the Covid-19 pandemic, which required remote study as schools were closed, the report also shows that isolation was not responsible for these falls, it was already something that had been occurring over the years. Although it contributed, it was not the only factor. Countries such as Finland, Iceland and Sweden, which reached the highest positions in the ranking, face problems such as the level of support that students receive from teachers and school staff, said OECD education analyst Irene Hu. Countries have invested in education over the last ten years, but perhaps not efficiently or sufficiently in the quality of teaching, said Eric Charbonnier, another OECD analyst.

Four Latin American countries are at the bottom: Guatemala (77), El Salvador (78), Dominican Republic (79) and Paraguay (80), ahead of last place, Cambodia (81). Spain occupies position number 27 and the United States, 34. According to the study, disparities in education levels indicate that the world is no longer strictly divided between rich, well-educated nations and poor, poorly educated nations. Although there is some correlation between spending and academic performance, history shows that countries determined to build a first-class education system can achieve it even in adverse economic circumstances.

For the first time, the OECD also analyzed, in a separate study, students happiness, using nine aspects that include their commitment to school, their material, cultural and psychological well-being, as well as their openness to diversity. This study showed that in Singapore, Macau and Taiwan, with the best math results, many students reported having a strong fear of failure and limited participation in extracurricular activities such as sports. In countries like Spain and Peru, with lower Pisa scores, researchers often found lower levels of anxiety and a greater focus on sports among those interviewed.
North Iowa Area Community College in Mason City will play host to an Iowa State University Extension and Outreach meeting Jan. 5 that will provide yearly crop production research updates and allow farmers and crop advisers to hear current research and crop production information from Iowa State University and the University of Minnesota.

Registration check-in opens at 8:15 a.m. and the program runs 9 a.m. to 4:10 p.m. at Muse-Norris Conference Center at NIACC, 500 College Drive.

Early registration for each location is $75; late registration completed less than seven days prior to the meeting, or on-site, is $100. Registration includes lunch, refreshments and CCA credits.

"The 2024 Crop Advantage meeting will give producers a solid foundation of current research-based crop production information to help make smart, informed decisions for their farming operation," said a release from Mercedes Latham of ISU Extension and Outreach in Cerro Gordo County.

"Campus Extension specialists, field specialists and invited speakers ... will provide updated management options and recommendations on crop production issues facing Iowa growers," according to a press release.

Meetings include continuing education credits for certified crop advisers. Private pesticide applicator continuing education will be available and will require a separate fee payable at the location.

Other program highlights include practical soybean production for troublesome soils; corn response to long-term seasonal stressors, and the impacts of extended diapause in rootworm management.

There is no other program in our crop production education year where we are able to bring this many extension specialists together to sites across the state. Were excited to provide quality, in-person education farmers and ag retailers have come to expect, said Angie Rieck-Hinz, field agronomist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

For more program details and registration information for Mason City or other Crop Advantage locations, visit: www.cropadvantage.org.

Online registration and additional information is available at www.cropadvantage.org. For questions, contact ANR Program Services at 515-294-9487, or anr@iastate.edu, or contact your regional Iowa State University Extension and Outreach field agronomist.
Sheffield's First Grace Baptist Church will host a drive-through live nativity this weekend that tells the enduring story of Christmas, spanning from the manger to the cross, according to a press release.

The live nativity will take place from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 9-10.

Titled The Story of Christmas" and featuring live animals and actors, this event is becoming an annual tradition for area families, according to Penny McCaslin, member and representative for First Baptist.

"We are hoping to be part of families' growing together in positive ways and feel like this free event can be easily included in family traditions of holiday light touring. The Community Club here gives out a few awards for different categories of holiday lights in Sheffield, so it's a great opportunity for people to come to town, check out the holiday lights, drive through this live event, enjoy some free cocoa and cookies, and make memories that last," McCaslin said in a statement.

According to the church, the third annual nativity will be an "immersive experience complete with audio narration, costumes, beautifully designed sets, and angels brightly shining from nearly 30 feet in the air ... something that transports children and adults alike back to that first Christmas."

"What started off as a manger, shepherds, a few paintings, and a cross," said McCaslin, "expanded last year to include a set with Mary and Gabriel, shepherds in the fields with angelic appearances, a beautiful stable with Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus, a cross, and an empty tomb. This year, it is going to be even bigger and better than ever."

We want this to become an annual tradition for the families of our community as they celebrate the birth of our savior, Pastor Matt Reeves said in the release. We are all guilty of filling our calendars so full during the holidays that we barely have a minute to slow down and remember who it is that we are actually celebrating. As families drive through this living nativity with cookies and hot cocoa in hand, we pray that they will be reminded of the gift that came to us at Christmas, the Lord Jesus Christ.

You see, this is why we end the nativity with the cross and the empty tomb. Jesus didnt just come so that we could have a great time gathering with friends and family, exchanging gifts and singing Jingle Bells. Jesus was born in the shadow of the cross. He was born so that he could go to that cross and die for our sins and then be resurrected from the grave. He was born so that all of us could have a relationship with God through faith in Jesus if we would only repent and believe.

Reeves concluded by saying, Wed like to extend a warm invitation to our entire community to come and celebrate Christmas with us at our living nativity this year!

More details can be found at www.firstgracebaptist.com/nativity.
DES MOINES  Iowa Republicans will gather in just over a month, in schools, churches and community halls, to cast their vote for the presidential nomination and kick off the national primary process.

The high-profile presidential caucuses require meticulous planning from state and local officials to secure locations, organize volunteers and get the word out to voters.

The caucuses are held across more than 1,600 local precincts every two years to organize party business, but attention and attendance surges in years when there is a contested presidential nomination.

We take great pride in the fact that we are well organized and that we do anticipate it to be highly successful with great activity of registered Republicans, said Polk County Republican Party Central Committee member Chris Werman. And it's an important step in democracy.

Iowa Democrats will hold party-organizing precinct caucuses on the same day as Republicans, Jan. 15. But they will express their presidential preference using a new mail-in process and wont announce results until March 5. The change came after national Democrats booted the state from their early nominating spot in an effort to redesign the calendar in a way that better represented the party's demographics.

For the Republican caucuses, voters will gather on Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. at designated precinct locations.

Before the presidential preference poll, representatives from each presidential campaign can make speeches in support of their candidate. Attendees will then cast their vote for president by writing a name on a slip of paper. Those votes are counted and reported to the state party.

Once the voting is over, caucus attendees move on to party business like electing delegates to the county convention and proposing items for the party platform.

Where will Republicans caucus?



Local parties need to find locations to hold their dozens of precinct caucuses. County parties will often host multiple precincts at one location in less populated areas.

Finding locations with enough space is sometimes difficult, said Woodbury County Republican Party Co-Chair Suzan Stewart, because of the uncertainty of turnout.

We had a caucus many years ago when we probably misjudged the space, and we kind of had fistfights in the parking lot, because people couldnt find places to park, she said. Thats my caucus nightmare, is that people will complain bitterly because they didnt have that opportunity."

Kelley Koch, the Dallas County Republican Party chair, said one challenge this year will be making sure Republicans know where to go to caucus. The locations are different from a persons voting precinct, and precincts were redrawn after redistricting in 2021.

So many people are so creature of habit, she said. ... Now its like a Hansel and Gretel, youve got to train people to go to this site.

How many people will participate in the caucuses?



County officials said they expect participation in this years caucus to be on par with 2016, in which a record more than 186,000 Republicans cast their vote for president.

The previous two contested cycles, 2012 and 2008, saw turnout of around 120,000.

Some precincts in Woodbury County that hadnt previously seen much turnout surged in 2016, Stewart said, largely because of the new voters former President Trump brought to the caucuses. Trump did drive some of the high turnout that year, but he took second place after U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas.

Theres so much interest in Trump and Republican candidates since 2016, she said. Things have just changed a lot, in the Trump era, so we could have a very robust turnout.

But the field is also much narrower than it was in 2016: Only a handful of candidates remain in the race, which could discourage turnout for supporters of candidates that have dropped out, Koch said.

I think that could go either way, I really do, she said.

Trump leads the field of GOP candidates as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley are in a tight battle for second place, according to recent Iowa polling. Other candidates include Ohio biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Texas pastor Ryan Binkley.

How many volunteers are needed?



Running the caucuses takes thousands of volunteers who help sign voters in, set up caucus sites, count the votes and guide the process. Party officials are working to recruit volunteers for each county precinct and train them on the process.

Depending on the size of the precinct, county officials said they need between three and 10 volunteers for each precinct. Recruiting volunteers has not been difficult because of the high interest in the presidential election, officials said.

It varies from precinct to precinct, but it's really not that difficult to find people because people do participate in the caucus and are willing to help with whatever the duties are before the evening, Werman said.

Democrats to separate party organizing, presidential preference

Iowa Democrats will hold their party-organizing caucus on Jan. 15 and express their choice for president via a mail-in process starting in January.

The partys new presidential preference cards will include the names of incumbent President Joe Biden and two long-shot challengers, U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota and author Marianne Williamson, along with an option to remain uncommitted.

With the caucus separated from the presidential selection, participation on caucus night is likely to be low, said Scott County Democratic Party Chair Kay Pence. The party will elect delegates for the county convention and work on the party platform.

Were planning it to be the amount of participation like an off-year caucus, she said. So were having them all at one location rather than at all the individual precincts.

Pence said shes excited that the presidential selection will happen by mail this year, making it open to more people who traditionally cant get out to their caucus location.

Democrats can request presidential preference cards by mail or email, and the party will begin mailing them on Jan. 12.

For the first time ever this will be a totally inclusive presidential selection process, she said. Because in the past, if you didn't like driving at night, or you were a snowbird, went south for the winter, or you had a job with second shift or you had small children at home, you couldn't get out. People can participate now.

Photos: Former President Donald Trump speaks at Commit to Caucus event in Waterloo Trump 2 Trump 11
Although details are extremely scant, a Danville man was killed Saturday morning in North Carolina.

On Monday morning, the Caswell County, North Carolina, Sheriffs Office issued a vague news release reporting a shooting that happened sometime Saturday morning in Pelham, North Carolina.

Joshua White, 26, of Danville, was killed in the gunfire incident, officials reported.

The release did not provide the location of the incident or divulge any other details.

Calls and emails to the sheriffs office were not returned to the Register & Bee by late Tuesday afternoon.

The release did note that if anyone has any information on the crime, they are asked to call Crime Stoppers of Caswell County at 336-694-5199.
Sacred Heart Catholic School officially celebrated its 70th anniversary Saturday night. Following Mass the the lighting of the Madonna and Child, guest were invited to share memories in the school's gym.
GuilfordWorks and Hub4Hope, along with community partners GTCC, Triad Goodwill, Positive Direction for Youth and Families, and NCWorks, are hosting a hiring event for Toyota Battery Manufacturing Plant from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 9 at Evangel Fellowship Church, 2207 E. Cone Blvd. in Greensboro For more event information, visit GuilfordWorks.org.

Toyota plans to eventually hire 4,000+ individuals for a variety of job opportunities. These re-entry-friendly positions offer competitive rates and benefits starting immediately. No experience is required and Toyota will provide paid training. Toyota recommends that anyone interested complete the online application before the event.

In conjunction with the hiring event, there are also career-readiness workshops from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 7. Workshop attendees will learn:

How to research a company.

How to identify transferrable skills/experience matching available roles and utilize that knowledge in the application process.

What skills to practice for the Toyota assessments.

How to confidently interview (including those with criminal records).

Staff will help individuals with limited computer skills complete the online Toyota application and prepare them for different elements of the application process beyond this hiring event.

For information, call 336-375-3900.
High Point Universitys Jewish students shared their culture and traditions by celebrating Hanukkah and Shabbat, now known at HPU as Shabbatukkah, on Dec. 1.

Students were asked to wear their favorite Hanukkah sweater or T-shirt, bring canned goods to donate to the David Frazier Food Pantry at Jewish Family Services and plan for a night of traditions, including playing the dreidel game and eating potato latkes (pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly donuts).

This year, Hanukkah runs from Dec 7-15. Hanukkah candles will be lit at the new Bergman Family Hillel House at 5:30 p.m. on each of the eight nights of Hanukkah. A menorah is also displayed at the HPU Campus Concierge location in Slane Student Center.

Hanukkah is a holiday based on miracles, bringing light into darkness during this dark time of the year, said Amy Epstein, HPUs Jewish Life Coordinator. At HPU, we are an extended family. The Jewish students will tell you that being together on campus is their home away from home. Being together for our Hanukkah Shabbat lets that warmth of home fill their lives and the community here on campus.

Students, faculty and staff from HPUs Jewish community read the story of Hanukkah, recited prayers in Hebrew, lit candles, spun dreidels, participated in a service project and enjoyed authentic Jewish food. Students are filled with memories from Hanukkahs in years prior on campus and at home, said Epstein.

Celebrating Hanukkah on campus has been so meaningful, especially during these times, said HPU Hillel Co-President Shira Gold, a junior psychology major with a statistics minor from Denver, Colo.

Being able to come together as a community has been such a comforting experience. I am so grateful we can celebrate our Judaism here, said Hillel Co-President Kayla Chwatt, a junior psychology major from Short Hills, New Jersey. Im so excited that we have a great new space where we have the opportunity to light Hanukkah candles each night here on campus.
The N.C. Civil Rights Trail adds a new avenue with the recent launch of a podcast series amplifying the student-led protest story that anchors the International Civil Rights Center & Museum in Greensboro. The free podcasts, which accompany a newly extended guide at VisitNC.com, can be accessed through Simplecast, Apple, Spotify, Audible and other major platforms with a U.S. Civil Rights Trail search.

Most people know the essential story of the Greensboro Four, the students who took a stand against segregation with their sit-in at the Woolworth lunch counter, said Wit Tuttell, executive director of Visit North Carolina. The three new podcasts trace the overarching story and add details and insights while introducing other people who played important roles. Its striking how many of them are women, from 15-year-old Dorothy Counts in Charlotte to the Bennett Belles at Bennett College and student organizer Ella Baker.

The podcasts, produced by Tanner Latham of Ingredient Creative, represent a partnership of Visit NC, the states tourism marketing organization; the N.C. African American Heritage Commission, architects of the N.C. Civil Rights Trail; and the U.S. Civil Rights Trail Marketing Alliance. The series advances these organizations efforts to direct travelers to places significant to the pursuit of civil rights.

The first podcast, NC Students Start a Revolution, begins in 1957 with Dorothy Counts braving abuse as she enters Harding High School in Charlotte, then continues to Greensboro, where a 1958 speech by the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. has inspired students at Bennett College and N.C. A&T to act. The second episode, The A&T 4 Sit Down, delves into the planning of the Woolworth sit-in, the events of Feb. 1, 1960, and the aftermath. The third episode, Greensboro Sparks a Movement, travels east to a W.T. Grant lunch protest led by students at Elizabeth City State Teachers College (now University) and then reaches Shaw University in Raleigh, where Ella Baker organized the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee.

Hearing the voices of history-makers underscores how vital these stories remain, Tuttell said. It also stirs the desire to visit the sites that preserve, present and interpret the actions that led to transformation.

Greensboro, Raleigh and Durham, which are home to North Carolina landmarks on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, make ideal starting points, Tuttell said. The newly updated guide at VisitNC.com adds multidimensional experiences in Fayetteville, Wilmington, Shelby and High Point to a trip plan that highlights designated stops on the N.C. Civil Rights Trail. The VisitNC.com feature also connects users to the stories behind the state trails 27 markers, including one for the Elizabeth City sit-ins. The state trails website adds more depth by pinpointing Harding High, other protest sites, meeting spaces, and places tied to legal action and visits by Civil Rights icons.

The more we understand our history, the better our ability to chart our future, Tuttell said. The podcasts create a meaningful way to extend our knowledge and inspire us on a critical journey to learn more.

For more information to inspire a trip, stop by VisitNC.com.
Minority homeownership is on the rise in Greensboros reinvestment areas, historically impoverished neighborhoods that the city is attempting to revitalize, according to a new economic study.

Over the period from 2009 to 2021, Hispanics recorded the largest increase of homeownership in the reinvestment areas, from 51 to 327. Asian homeowners have increased from 365 to 434, while the number of Black homeowners has increased from 82 to 93.

However, even with those gains in ownership, the data shows another trend that has raised concerns: The overall number of Black households in the reinvestment areas (renters as well as homeowners) declined from 163 to 115.

Meanwhile, the overall number of white households increased the most of any group within reinvestment areas, rising from 827 in 2009 to 1,281 in 2021.

The researchers who presented the data believe that these trends have complex implications for the citys progress in providing affordable housing. Gains in minority homeownership are positive signs for the future, but the loss of Black households in reinvestment areas point to problems with credit access and the citys affordable housing inventory.

What are reinvestment areas?

The term reinvestment areas first came from the city of Greensboros previous comprehensive plan, Connections 2025, which highlighted mostly older neighborhoods and industrial sections of east Greensboro in need of private investment.

Those areas are:

South Elm-Eugene and Martin Luther King Drive area

McConnell Road area

North Carolina A&T area

Cone Mills area

Carolina Circle area

Greensboro has focused on bringing economic revitalization to these areas for decades. Willow Oaks, a neighborhood in the McConnell Road area, is a notable example of the citys efforts to vitalize a historically impoverished development.

Willow Oaks stands on the grounds of Greensboros one-time segregated public housing project for Black residents, Morningside Homes, as well as another neighborhood named Lincoln Grove, which was for whites. Both were built in 1951.

Nearly 30 years later, the area was the scene of one of the most violent events in the citys history. On Nov. 3, 1979, five members of the Communist Workers Party were killed and 10 others injured in a confrontation with Neo-Nazis and Klan members during an anti-Ku Klux Klan march at Morningside Homes.

Derrick Joyner, now the president of Willow Oaks neighborhood association, says he remembers hearing about the massacre in high school when he was 16 years old.

When the city of Greensboro demolished Morningside Homes and replaced it with Willow Oaks in a $76 million development effort, Joyners reflections on the history of the violent event led him to buy a home in the new mixed-income neighborhood.

Living here stops you from building an idea of who someone is, Joyner said. You start having contact with people who dont have as much money as you and then you understand that theyre actually really decent people.

Willow Oaks includes 40 senior housing units, 160 rental units, dozens of single-family homes and 10,000 square footage of planned neighborhood retail.

As president of the neighborhood association, Joyner teaches classes on homeownership and works around the clock to help his neighbors with any problems they might have with their houses.

The biggest part of my job is making sure theres pride in the neighborhood, Joyner said. A lot of the time theres people who are buying their first house. Theyve never had that pride.

Roadblocks

The trend toward an increase in white households and a decrease Black residents in some urban neighborhoods, often termed gentrification, has raised concerns in cities around the country.

Eunika Smalls and Craig Richardson, the researchers behind Greensboros economic study, both agree that the trend in the local reinvestment areas needs more research.

I think its important to realize that although they are all members of the same ethnic group, that as individuals and families, the stories and backgrounds could be quite different between the ones who left and the ones who stayed, said Richardson, a professor at Winston-Salem State University. Maybe the ones who stayed had better access to mortgage credit, for example, than the ones who left.

Richardson presented the study in a Greensboro city council work session with Smalls, who works as the citys assistant director of Housing and Neighborhood development.

According to another statistic in the study, applications for home loans under $100,000 in Greensboro were rejected more than 20 percent of the time in a time period from 2007 to 2021.

Oftentimes, Richardson said, banks may not see these loans as worth their time because they bring in so little money.

What we have here is a breakdown in access to credit for someone at the lower end of the economic ladder, Richardson said in the work session. That may be something you all can address by talking to your banks.

Smalls agreed with Richardsons analysis and said that a significant number of lenders simply arent interested in small mortgages.

Smalls also discussed another major concern for the city in promoting affordable housing and homeownership in the reinvestment areas: national investors paying cash for single-family homes.

Because national real-estate investors can close home sales quickly with cash offers, they have a strong appeal to sellers. Smalls says that these investors then drive up rent prices, which decreases the citys supply of affordable housing.

Data from Richardsons study indicated that from 2004 to 2020, 70 percent of properties with a price of less than $100,000 were purchased with cash in the city of Greensboro, with many of the properties being rented.

Ultimately, the trends pointed out by Richardson and Smalls have factored into Greensboros struggle for affordable housing inventory.

A Times Magazine article in March ranked Greensboro as the seventh worst metro areas in the country in terms of affordable housing inventory.

Solutions

Greensboro is planning to introduce a new tool to help protect its supply of affordable housing: community land trusts.

A community land trust (CLT) is a non-profit organization that the city can create in order to ensure that a property is affordable. A family or individual looking to become a homeowner can purchase a house, not the property it sits on, and sign a 99-year lease with the CLT, who owns the property.

The homeowner also agrees to sell the home eventually at a restricted price in order to preserve affordability.

CLTs could help promote affordable housing alongside the citys efforts to provide down-payment assistance and other financial aid. By ensuring the affordability of properties around Greensboro, CLTs stave off national real-estate investors who are buying up low-cost homes.

According to the city, residents with area expertise, local stakeholders, and other property owners will lead CLT organizations in redevelopment areas such as Willow Oaks, Ole Asheboro, and Eastside Park.

A 2019 report from the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy and Freddie Mac showed that CLTs are increasingly building wealth for homeowners of color. In Greensboros reinvestment areas, 80 percent of Black households are now homeowners.

Its a number that both the city of Greensboro and community leaders like Joyner hope to help improve.

You have to shake people a little bit and tell them that this is their chance to build generational wealth, Joyner said. If something happens to me, someone in my family is going to keep my house.
 European Union 2022 - Source : EP; Photographer: Fred Marvaux

Deirdre Clune MEP (Ireland) welcomed the findings of the European Dementia Monitor: As a Member of the European Parliament and as Vice-Chairperson of the European Alzheimers Alliance, I am interested in how European countries differ in their approaches to dementia care and treatment, and I hope that reports like this one can help identify good practices to be implemented in countries lagging behind. As an Irish MEP, I was happy to see that Ireland excelled in some key areas with the development of our national dementia strategy, the Irish Dementia Working Group and the recognition of legal rights. However, my country has some catching up to do in other areas, and more efforts need to be made to provide more accessible and affordable care services. Similarly, I would hope that more clinical trials will be conducted in Ireland to allow people with dementia to participate in research for the development of new and better treatments.

On the basis of the findings in the 10 identified categories, Alzheimer Europe established a ranking of countries (with each category contributing 10% to the overall score), with the Netherlands coming first with an overall score of 77.6%, followed by the United Kingdom (Scotland) (74.5%), the Czech Republic (74.2%), Germany (72.7%) and Sweden (70.7%). Compared to the 2020 edition of the Dementia Monitor, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic improved their scores and ranking the most, moving up from seventh to first and from 19th place to third place respectively. The United Kingdom (Scotland) and Germany also slightly improved their scores, but Scotland stayed in second place while Germany moved from fifth to fourth place. Sweden moved down from first to fifth place in this years ranking, whereas the United Kingdom (England) and Belgium dropped out of the top five and moved to eighth and ninth place respectively.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is having a 30-day public comment period for a proposal that would modify the East Helena Superfund sites 2009 lead levels for residential yards and undeveloped lands.

The 30-day comment period on the Record of Decision runs through Dec. 30.

Recent residential soil-lead testing in East Helena and a better understanding of the bioavailability  how easily something is absorbed by the body if ingested  of lead have caused EPA to reevaluate the cleanup level for soil-lead in yards in East Helena.

The EPA is proposing to modify the current residential lead cleanup level to remove the 1,000 parts per million (ppm) action level and lower the cleanup level to 400 ppm.

The EPA has established a 400 ppm standard for lead in bare soils in play areas and 1,200 ppm for non-play areas for federally funded projects, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

EPAs goal is to clean up yards and yard areas in East Helena with soil-lead concentrations greater than 400 ppm.

Cleanup of residential yards would include the removal of affected soils down to a depth of at least 18 inches. Yards then would receive clean soil and sod or the equivalent, such as mulch or gravel, to replace what existed in the yard pre-cleanup.

Cleanup at the East Helena Superfund site has largely addressed contamination from a century of smelting by ASARCO.

In 1984, the EPA declared East Helena a Superfund cleanup site.

The smelter closed in 2001, and after later declaring bankruptcy, ASARCO placed about $96 million in a trust managed by Montana Environmental Trust Group.

In its news release announcing the comment period, they said what they are doing is a proposed Explanation of Significant Difference that would modify the East Helena Superfund sites 2009 Record of Decision for Residential Yards and Undeveloped Lands. They said a Record of Decision is used to modify Superfund decision documents.

Comments must be in written form, sent via email to Mackenzie Meter (meter.mackenzie@epa.gov) or Bridget Williams (williams.bridget@epa.gov) or by regular mail to:

Environmental Protection Agency

c/o Mackenzie Meter

10 W. 15th St.

Helena, MT 59626

EPA will host office hours to answer questions at East Helena City Hall (306 E. Main St., East Helena), Lead Education and Assistance Program Office on the second floor.

EPA representatives can also receive written comments on the proposed ESD during these office hours. Please stop by during the following days and times:

Monday, Dec. 11, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 12, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

EPA representatives will also host a virtual community meeting from 6-7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 11.

Joining information will be available via the sites profile page.

Those unable to attend the community meeting or office hours and have questions for the EPA team, should contact Mackenzie Meter (meter.mackenzie@epa.gov) or Bridget Williams (williams.bridget@epa.gov; call/text 406-594-8792).

More information about the East Helena Superfund site can be found on the sites profile page.
The Helena City Commission has approved three allocations totaling $189,000 in general fund dollars resulting from American Rescue Plan Act aid.

The largest amount doled out Monday was $100,000 to the Friendship Center of Helena, a nonprofit that houses families affected by domestic violence.

The organization intends to use the funds to help purchase property at 1503 Gallatin Ave.

Friendship Center Executive Director Gina Boesdorfer told the commissioners Monday the organization's operational budget has more than doubled in the last five years with the hiring of administrative, programmatic and developmental personnel to meet the growing need for its services.

"We've hired a variety of administrative, programmatic and development staff to help with the increases (in need), but also as a part of our long-term plan," Boesdorfer said. "We want to make sure that we're balancing that administrative, programmatic, developmental need as we grow, so that we stay very sustainable."

The five-bedroom house the organization intends to buy was its original home. It was sold to raise capital to build its current location.

Boesdorfer said in an interview Tuesday she hopes to close on the property by the end of the month.

She said it will remain as rental housing units for the time being. The organization will eventually wrap up its present-day, two-phase capital campaign and begin renovating the building.

She said the space will house the recently hired staff and any future employees.

"With additional staff comes the need to support those staff members," Boesdorfer said.

She said the existing shelter houses a maximum of 13 adults and their children.

"Our next plan is to hire a programs director and then a volunteer coordinator, and from there, we'll continue to expand," she told the commissioners.

The commission also approved depositing $80,000 in ARPA aid into the city's residential energy efficiency and renewable energy loan program and spending $9,000 on an architectural study of Memorial Park Ice Rink's warming hut, which has been closed to the public due to deterioration.

Less the $189,000 handed out Monday, the city is sitting on more than $1.1 million remaining and $1.6 million in contingency funds.

The city received a total of $8,486,620 in Local Recovery Funds from the U.S. Treasury as part of ARPA, which it claimed as lost revenue for police and fire services during the COVID pandemic.

Since receipt of the aid, the city has spent more than $4.5 million on internal projects and more than $2.6 million on community-based projects.

The city's internal projects have ranged from paving a portion of Centennial Trail to rebuilding a Mount Helena radio tower previously struck by lightning.

Community beneficiaries of the federal dollars included Rocky Mountain Development Council, Helena Food Share, ExplorationWorks and Good Samaritan Ministries, among others.
The state health department eliminated the tribal relations manager from its roster after the longtime employee retired earlier this year, sparking outrage among tribal leaders and former state employees.

A high ranking member of the Department of Public Health and Human Services, the tribal relations manager acted as the liaison between the agency and the states tribes to navigate DPHHS logistics and services.

The department announced duties associated with the tribal relations manager position will be absorbed by the American Indian Health Director. But tribal leaders said they were disappointed they were not consulted in the decision to cut the role, particularly as Native Americans historically have worse health outcomes than their white counterparts in Montana.

The health department said that the American Indian Health director will confer with tribal leaders about what the job will look like going forward.

The job

The tribal relations manager  which made just over $100,000 a year  was a direct, high-level point of contact in DPHHS for the states Native population.

By contrast, the American Indian health director position was established in 2015 after a report revealed that Native Americans in Montana die a generation sooner than non-Natives. Where the relations manager acts as a liaison, the director is responsible for identifying the root causes of health disparities and promoting health equity.

Lesa Evers worked for the state of Montana for 24 years, the last 11 of which she was the tribal relations manager, until she officially retired on Dec. 1. Evers, who is Little Shell and Blackfeet descendant, was the only person ever at this post.

She explained that she would frequently travel to the rural and urban parts of Montanas reservations to meet with residents and tribal health leaders with the goal of addressing health and human services issues that affect tribal members.

"During her tenure, Evers provided the strongest link in time between Montana Tribes and the DPHHS directors office," read a release from the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Council. "Having this direct access to the director and support from Evers has changed healthcare for Montana tribes."

On Evers first visit to the Fort Peck Reservation on the job, the lack of access became glaringly evident.

"They told me: Lesa, before we knew you we would just dial 444 and four random numbers and hope someone with the state would answer," she said, referencing the fact that every state agency number starts with "406-444."

Fort Peck Tribal Executive Board Member Dana Buckles spoke highly of Evers work on the reservation and said the decision to remove her position "leaves us in limbo."

Tribal response

While DPHHS American Indian Health Director Stephanie Iron Shooter told tribal leaders last week she would be able to absorb Evers responsibilities, representatives from the tribes remained skeptical, saying they were deeply frustrated with the decision.

Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Councilman Len TwoTeeth at a meeting in Billings last week called the announcement "disheartening" and advised Iron Shooter to tell her supervisor "this is unacceptable."

He also suggested the tribes hold a special meeting to speak directly with DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton, which Brereton has since agreed to.

"There shouldve been consultation with tribal leaders before this decision was even made," TwoTeeth told Iron Shooter last week. "Our original intent was to try and get as many Native Americans in the department, especially in leadership positions. And for Director Brereton to send us a letter acknowledging that he already made the decision and this is how its gonna be  no, that doesnt go over well with me."

Bryce Kirk, who sits on the Fort Peck Tribal Executive Board, criticized Brereton for not attending last weeks meeting.

"Does (leadership) really want to know whats going on on reservations?" he asked. "We always have to go to Helena to make our voices heard. Why dont they come to us? (They) should be here right now. We want answers."

Responding to the criticism, Iron Shooter promised to be transparent in her role and said she plans to visit and hold meaningful discussions with tribal communities statewide.

"The Department of Health and Human Services remains fully committed to maintaining our longstanding reciprocal partnership with the tribes and with Indian Health Service," she said at the meeting.

The official statement from DPHHS said that the decision to merge the tribal relations manager with Iron Shooters job will "strengthen and streamline service delivery to tribes," adding that Iron Shooter "will have in-depth conversations with DPHHSs tribal partners about the re-alignment of duties and responsibilities."

Brereton expanded on this point in a letter dated Dec. 4 that was addressed to the Rocky Mountain Tribal Leaders and American Indian Health Leaders.

"I am confident that housing the duties and responsibilities of the Tribal Relations Manager within OAIH and under the leadership of our American Indian Health Director will reduce confusion about these two roles..." it read.

Jon Ebelt, communications director for DPHHS, did not respond to specific questions, including why the department didn't consult with tribes before deciding to eliminate the position, whether the department would meet with tribal officials to discuss the matter or how many DPHHS employees are Native American.

Impossible for one person to do

Both Evers and Anna Whiting Sorrell, the department director when the tribal relations manager was first instated, repeatedly said that the two roles have distinct, sizable workloads.

"The work we do with Indian Country isn't about streamlining," Evers said. "It takes a tremendous amount of work to do (these jobs) and it's impossible for one person to do."

Native Americans in Montana are disproportionately enrolled in Medicaid and in the foster care system. Evers said she often received calls from people who had trouble accessing child protective services within the department. She also worked to maximize revenue within Indian Health Service hospitals, which bill the federal program differently.

This work included activating specific revenue codes for the facilities to bill and creating reports twice a year that detailed the outcomes, she said.

"It is a position that is mutually needed between tribes and DPHHS," said Whiting Sorrell, a citizen of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

Whats more, numerous American Indian Health Leaders signed a letter addressed to Director Brereton on Oct. 25 after they learned Evers would be retiring.

"It is our recommendation, moving forward, that the tribal relations manager position continue to be a part of the DPHHS management team," the letter read. "We do not want to lose the momentum we have established over the past ten years of working together," it finished.

In the Dec. 4 letter, Director Brereton said he welcomes their "counsel and input."

"Decisions like this that impact trust should not be made in a vacuum," Evers said. "Its just insulting."

History

The elimination of this position is not particularly surprising, as others have tried to cut it in the past.

Lawmakers in 2021 proposed cutting both the tribal relations manager and director of American Indian health positions within DPHHS. That discussion sparked outrage among members of the American Indian Caucus and tribal health experts, who said the move would not only hurt tribes but also hurt the government-to-government relationship shared among tribes and the state. A legislative committee later restored funding for both positions.

Whiting Sorrell believes the job "was reaffirmed of its importance" after the attempt to cut it during that legislative session because of the "overwhelming" response from the tribes at the time.

The tribal relations manager position was first created under Democratic Gov. Brian Schweitzer and Health Department Director Whiting Sorrell, at which time the former director said they faced "no pushback" by instating the job.

"We looked at the numbers and we saw that a large percentage of our care was going to Indigenous country," Schweitzer said. "We knew there were a lot more people who needed care."

A consequence of harmful U.S. policy and structural discrimination, Native Americans face persistent health disparities in Montana. A report found that from 2011 to 2015, Native American men in Montana died 16 years earlier than white men in the state and Native women died, on average, 19 years sooner than white women.

As a result of structural and overt discrimination, the trust between tribal members and the state government remains fragile and degraded. Evers thinks these last couple months "will further erode the trust."
DECATUR  Dawn Sterling has signed off as WAND-TV's 5, 6 and 10 p.m. co-anchor.

Sterling has been with WAND for 20 years, working side-by-side with fellow anchor Sean Streaty.

"Dawn decided not to renew her contract," said President and General Manager Clay Koenig. "Shes done some very good work for us the last 20 years and really has done a great job in the community.

"Opportunities on both sides here, for Dawn as she embarks on a new chapter in her life that we fully support, but also an opportunity for WAND-TV to develop our already successful bench strength or go outside to hire a real heavy hitter from another television market," he added.

Sterling declined to comment immediately, but said she might be willing to do so at a later date.

"Jacklyn Sylvester, WAND news director, was fully prepared in case something like this developed," Koenig said. "We are in a very good position here and we look forward to the challenges of the future."

"I had a great history teacher named Terry Havel who was really interested in broadcasting and had acquired the necessary equipment to get on the air," Sterling told reporter Phil Jacobs at the time. "He was planning a half hour broadcast on a local cable access channel dealing with high school issues and encouraged me to get involved. He thought I asked good questions and would be great on the air, so I decided to give it try."

Her first job out of college after her 1999 graduation from Central Michigan University was with a station in Binghamton, New York, moving to another station in Terre Haute, Indiana nine months later, where she covered the execution of Timothy McVeigh, for the 1995 bombing of the federal building in Oklahoma City in which 168 people were killed. That story, which drew national news media attention, was the biggest of her career at the time, she said.

She came to Decatur in 2004.
Washington's center of gravity on immigration has shifted demonstrably to the right. The immigration debate is now focused on measures meant to keep migrants out as Republicans sense they have the political upper hand.
Open-source webmail project Roundcube has merged its operations with open-source file syncing and sharing software company Nextcloud after the founder of the mail project decided he wanted out.

Thomas Bruederli, founder and head developer of Roundcube, said in an interview that he had decided to hand over Roundcube to Nextcloud chief executive and founder Frank Karlitschek because of the latter's involvement in free software for so many years.

Both projects share the same ideology about the role and importance of free software as an independent alternative to the big cloud services," he said.

A statement from Nextcloud said it would speed up development and work the Roundcube community to incorporate security enhancements in the webmail app.

Karlitschek said: "The merger not only underscores the collective strength of the open source community, but also highlights our enduring commitment to privacy, security, and user empowerment."

There are no immediate plans for replacing Nextcloud's own mail app with Roundcube.

Bruederli said he had not wanted to sell Roundcube to any company which was using it as "Roundcube is free software at heart and giving its control to a business and service-oriented entity never was an option.

"I want the software to remain as open and general-purpose as it is today and I dont think that a big company can take over that spirit."

Karlitschek said he respect Bruederli's decision not to hand over Roundcube to some random company.

"Im sure many would have been interested," he said. "Instead, he cares about the project itself, the future. There, too, I can relate  I have taken great pains in the past to preserve a project I care about and keep it from falling apart!"
ConnectID, an initiative of Australian Payments Plus (AP+), has announced a partnership with Hold Access to accelerate the development of a digital wallet (WUNA) to be included within the trusted ConnectID network.

The partnership is designed to empower First Nations people and those who are digitally excluded, to overcome digital accessibility barriers through improved identity verification.

WUNA, which means to make informed choices independently, rebuilds the freedom of Indigenous identity for purpose. Using WUNA, First Nations people can have better control over their personal information, making it easier to store and hold their documents online and access essential services such as healthcare, government services, employment, education, and banking. Businesses will also have easier ways to meet their compliance and regulatory needs.

Access to digital services is necessary in a nation like Australia considering our significant remote and regional population. For those living in these communities or those without the means to access digital documentation, identity verification can be a major barrier to these important and often critical services, said Andrew Black, Managing Director at ConnectID.

Black continued, Were also quickly realising the potential Digital ID technology can have on other digitally excluded communities, such as under-served regional populations, refugees and those experiencing homelessness, in safely and securely verifying their identity.

Having recently launched with the backing of major industry partners, including CBA and NAB, ConnectID is an identity solution that makes it easier for people to verify who they are, using organisations they already trust.

Jason-Urranndulla Davis is a Kalkadoon and Waanyi man of the Kalkadoon and Waanyi Nations of Northwest Queensland and the Gulf Country who founded Hold Access after experiencing firsthand the impact of digital identity.

Davis said, When many people in some First Nations communities do not have an email or electronic documentation, the move to online services creates an incredible barrier and expands inequalities. For First Nations people, there is a clear digital gap in being able to access opportunities and assistance that needs to be overcome with culturally inclusive Diji (digital) agency.

The continuity of cultural identity for First Nations people is extremely important. It shouldn't be something that can be left at the doorstep, it should be able to travel with you, Davis concluded.

Together ConnectID and Hold Access will accelerate deployment of WUNA to solve the issue of digital exclusion and help bridge the digital gap for First Nations people.
In his new role, Reck will ensure Pax8 maintains the trust of managed service providers (MSPs), vendors, and customers, by advancing the security measures of the Pax8 Marketplace. Reck will report to chief technology officer Scott Chasin.

We're thrilled to have Robb, an industry-leading security innovator, take the helm of security and compliance at Pax8," said Chasin. "With an impressive 25 years of experience in the IT space, Robb brings invaluable expertise to Pax8. We're fortunate to have his leadership in developing and implementing robust security strategies and formalising and communicating a culture of trust with our partners, helping them integrate security practices into their offerings."

Before joining Pax8, Reck led security operations for multiple enterprises in the financial services, banking, and software sectors. His most recent role was as chief trust officer at Red Canary, a leading managed detection and response (MDR) provider. Before that, Reck served as chief information security officer at Ping Identity from the companys venture capital period through itsinitial public offering. In 2017, Reck cofounded Colorado = Security, a community that serves 2500+ information security professionals in Colorado.

Pax8 has an immense opportunity in front of us, where we can positively impact the MSP industry worldwide, to not only make them more effective but to help them deliver a more trustworthy environment for their customers, said Reck. I am excited to be a part of that vision and to help uplevel our partners around the world.

To learn more about Pax8, please visit www.pax8.com.

About Pax8

Pax8 is the worlds favourite cloud marketplace for IT professionals to buy, sell, and manage best-in-class technology solutions. Pioneering the future of modern business, Pax8 has cloud-enabled more than 300,000 enterprises through its channel partners and processes one million monthly transactions. Pax8s award-winning technology enables managed service providers (MSPs) to accelerate growth, increase efficiency, and reduce risk so their businesses can thrive. The innovative company has ranked in the Inc. 5000 for six years in a row. Join the revolution at pax8.com.
The majority of Australian businesses (93 per cent) recognise that ESG performance is relevant to the enterprise value of organisations. Additionally, customer retention (41 per cent), market competition (44 per cent), customer attraction (46 per cent), and employee expectations (51 per cent) are among the key drivers for organisations adopting sustainability measures, alongside regulatory pressures (59 per cent) [1].



Simply put, ESG is like a report card that looks beyond the bottom line. It includes clear numberssuch as greenhouse gas emissions and energy useas well as a qualitative assessment of labour practices and community engagement. Its this combination that gives a rounded view of a companys impact. Companies that develop strong ESG frameworks are ahead of the regulatory curve and can attract customers and investors. However, more than 50 per cent of Australian organisations see data collection as one of the biggest challenges when it comes to achieving their sustainability goals [2].



Naveen Shettar, director of services, Logicalis Australia, said, ESG metrics tell the full story of a company, way beyond just the bottom line. They shine a light on how a company treats the planet, the people it works with, and how it operates. Understanding this bigger picture is becoming more important to show the role a company plays in the society in which it operates. Beyond establishing ESG goals, its critical that businesses have a clear-cut way of measuring and understanding how theyre performing against those metrics to determine the real value of their efforts.

Businesses can track their ESG progress in several ways. Third-party ESG scores and ratings can tell them how they stack up in the industry. Certifications, like those for Fairtrade or adherence to ISO 14001, can formally acknowledge a companys commitment to ESG principles. Additionally, regular auditsboth internal and externalprovide in-depth reviews of ESG practices and identify areas for improvement.



However, pinning down ESG performance can be challenging. Challenges businesses face include a mix of different measures, data collection issues, and integrating ESG into the existing business strategies. To clear these hurdles, businesses must have clear ESG goals, invest in solid data systems, and effectively weave ESG thinking into their business planning and daily operations.



PwC 2022 data shows that ASX200 companies are getting better at ESG reporting [3]. Now, 49 per cent of them have promised to reach net zero, a 13 per cent jump from 2021. However, of those aiming for net zero, just 55 per cent are actually talking about how theyll do it and focusing on the specific steps theyll take. The positive news is that many listed companies are acknowledging climate change as a financial risk and are setting targets to reduce their carbon footprint following global standards.



Unfortunately, the ESG journey can be tough for smaller companies. Limited resources and expertise can hinder their ability to effectively implement ESG measures. These businesses might find it difficult to get their hands on good ESG data or to live up to the benchmarks that bigger companies manage more easily. Investing in smart technology solutions that streamline data collection for ESG measurement can help bridge the gap for businesses. With a real-time view of an organisations entire technology suite, and the impact each individual element has on the environment, businesses can gain a clear picture of how they stack up against their ESG goals and better measureand managetheir carbon footprint.



The push for ESG is gaining steam, and investors are taking more notice of companies that prioritise sustainability and social responsibility. Plus, regulatory bodies are tightening up ESG reporting requirements. For example, the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) asks companies to report on significant sustainability-related risks and opportunities across their operations. This push for better reporting lets companies mitigate risks as well as identify and jump on opportunities.



Naveen Shettar said, Adopting ESG principles is a progressive journey. As new standardised reporting frameworks emerge, its becoming easier for companies to monitor and report their ESG initiatives, especially when they have technology solutions built into the digital fabrics of their organisation to manage and measure their impact in real time. These metrics reshape corporate conduct, promote accountability, and provide clear guidance. This shift is a win-win that builds trust and credibility for businesses while advocating for sustainable and fair practices that benefit society. As we look to the future, its clear that ESG standards will be key in helping companies reach a place where success goes hand in hand with making a positive impact.



References:

[1] Logicalis Global CIO Report 2023

[2] Logicalis Global CIO Report 2023

[3] https://www.pwc.com.au/assurance/environmental-social-and-governance-reporting.html






This transition comes after Orro made several successful acquisitions in the past 18 months, including cyber security leaders, RIOT Solutions and eSecure, and leading public cloud and managed services provider, NW Computing, and as the business looks ahead to its new growth phase.

Under Greengarten's leadership, Orro says it will continue to pursue faster, simpler and more secure managed services across Australia, delivering innovative IT solutions to its customers.

Greengarten has been an integral part of Orro as Chief Operating Officer since the company launched in 2021. Rodd Cunico, now former CEO, will remain with Orro in a new capacity, as a Non-Executive Director of the Board, working closely with Greengarten on the companys acquisition strategy.

Cunico said, The experience of being CEO for such a dedicated, intelligent, and creative team has been immensely rewarding, and to see the success of this business fills me with pride. I want to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to lead Orro over the last three and a half years. This change in leadership is in line with the evolving needs of Orro as we move into our next growth phase, and I am excited to see Dan step into the CEO role. I have no doubts that his vision for the business will take Orro to new heights.

Greengarten said, It is an honour to lead the exceptional team at Orro and build on the remarkable foundation that Rodd has established over the last three and a half years. I want to express my appreciation to Rodd for his outstanding leadership, vision and contributions to Orros success. I look forward to continuing working with Rodd in his new capacity on the board, ensuring a seamless transition, collaboration on future initiatives and further growth of the group.

Under Cunico Orro established itself as a leader in cyber security, network and cloud services. Cunico will continue delivering his advice in his new board role, predominantly in merger and acquisition activity.

Additionally, Heith Mackay-Cruise will become the Non-Executive Chair of the Board. Heith holds board positions on several EURONEXT-listed companies and brings experience from the broader global information economy sector. Heith has been on the Orro board as a non-executive director since its launch in 2021.

Mackay-Cruise said, The success of Orro in its first few years has been driven by the expert knowledge and leadership of Rodd, and we thank him for his persistent dedication to the company. I look forward to working closely with Dan and my fellow directors, as Orro continues to establish itself as a leader in the industry, focusing on economic returns for all our stakeholders.

Finally, Martin Uhrik joins Orro as Chief Financial Officer, bringing experience from various finance, commercial, investment and strategic roles held during his 23-year career, driving several mergers and acquisitions. Martin returned to Australia from the UK, where he held the role of Deputy Group Chief Financial Officer at Technicolour Creative Studios. Martin led the process to have Technicolour listed on the ASX, during a period in 2022 when most global financial markets were shut. Martin will replace Fabian Kuehn who is leaving Orro to relocate to New Zealand for personal reasons.
Liz Davids has tossed her name into the hat for the seat on the Nebraska State Board of Education that encompasses Lincoln and northwest Lancaster County.

Davids, of Lincoln, is the founder of the nonprofit Empower Nebraska  an educational activism organization for conservative Nebraskans  and considers herself to be an educator because she has, for years, taught each of her five children at home.

I am a home educator. I do not have a teacher certification, but I have educated my own children as well as others in a micro-school setting, she said. So, I'm an educator and educational advocate and an advocate for children.

Davids frequently attends both State and Lincoln Board of Education meetings where she often gives what she called bold statements" during public comment. She has also testified against proposed statewide comprehensive sex education standards, although she clarified that she has no problem with the current Lincoln Public Schools sex education curriculum.

By participating in board meetings, Davids said she has had the opportunity to hear from community members about their thoughts on the actions of the boards, better preparing her for a leadership role.

That increase in hearing from more and more community members, and participating more in the vehicles for civic engagement, really led me to decide that now is a perfect time to represent the people that I've talked to over the past few years as a State Board of Education member, she said.

The District 1 seat has long been held by Patsy Koch Johns, a Democrat, who announced in August that she would not seek another term on the board. Koch Johns has endorsed Davids' opponent, Kristin Christensen, also a Democrat.

Davids is endorsed by the group Nebraskans For Founders Values; several state senators including Lou Ann Linnehan and Dave Murman, the chair of the Legislatures Education Committee; Ben Houchin, Lancaster Countys chief deputy sheriff; and Suzanne Geist, a former senator and mayoral candidate.

She said her campaign is based on three values: academics, collaboration and transparency.

With those values in mind, she said she hopes to raise the standard for students and increase opportunities available to them, specifically in regard to STEM-related programs; improve the level of communication between schools and parents; and increase transparency to ensure community members are in the loop on things like property taxes.

I want better for our kids, and I think we can do better, she said.

Top Journal Star photos for December 2023
State lawmakers will convene at Nebraska Innovation Campus this week for two days of meetings designed to set the table for the 60-day legislative session scheduled to begin in January.

But unlike previous Legislative Councils, where discussions have centered on water infrastructure or Nebraskas changing demographics, this years retreat will focus on the Legislature itself.

Or, as Speaker John Arch of La Vista put it, the focus will be more on process than policy.

Weve got some opportunities to improve the institution of the Legislature, Arch said. The agenda that were talking through is a systems agenda, not a policy agenda.

Even before the start of the 2023 session, which moved from contentious to rancorous during debates over abortion and health care for transgender youth and resulted in a session longtime observers remarked was unlike any other, Arch said the Legislature was undergoing major changes.

A wave of staff departures  Arch put the number at more than 40 employees, including some who had worked for the Legislature for decades  meant a loss of years and years worth of institutional knowledge.

Taken with a large incoming class of first-year senators, some 820 pieces of legislation being introduced and committee hearings and floor debates that drew hundreds of Nebraskans to descend on the Capitol, Arch said the need is there to talk about how to strengthen the Legislature as a whole.

Its a short session, so theres not a lot of time for heavy lifting on major policy issues, Arch said. I saw this as an opportunity to address things that need to be addressed.

When the Legislative Council convenes at noon on Thursday, lawmakers who attend are scheduled to proceed through an agenda that previews the upcoming short session, discusses the findings of interim studies on the use of technology at the Legislature, as well as how to handle what Arch described as big committee hearings like those seen earlier this year.

Lawmakers will also get an update on the constitutional separation of powers dispute between the Offices of the Inspector General and the Department of Correctional Services and Department of Health and Human Services.

Attorney General Mike Hilgers, a former speaker of the Legislature himself, wrote an opinion that the legislative-created office was likely overstepping its bounds in providing oversight to those executive branch offices. The Legislature has since hired an attorney to help it navigate the short- and long-term consequences of that decision.

On Friday morning, senators are expected to begin discussing possible rules changes that could be debated early in the upcoming session.

Arch said some of the changes he plans to bring forward are technical changes sought by Clerk of the Legislature Brandon Metzler, while others seek to codify precedent and help with interpretation of longstanding practices.

Those will be the things that help keep debate flowing, keep it moving, he said. We will not stop the minority voice, but keep things moving forward.

Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard, who chairs the Legislatures Rules Committee, also plans to introduce a slew of rules changes he said will help keep lawmakers on track.

Weve got to make some changes, because we cant do what we did last year, Erdman said, referring to debates that were dominated by a handful of senators opposed to a bill (LB574) prohibiting transgender youth from accessing certain medical care.

Those lawmakers, led by Omaha Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh and others, filed a series of motions and amendments to draw out debate to the maximum allowed under the current rules in an attempt to stall the Legislature from taking a vote on LB574.

Those efforts were ultimately unsuccessful, and a filibuster-proof majority of 33 senators later attached a more restrictive abortion law onto LB574 before passing it and sending it to Gov. Jim Pillens desk.

Erdman said in addition to preventing a minority of the Legislature from dominating the proceedings, he wants the rules to prevent the practice of attaching dozens of pieces of legislation onto a single bill for passage  something he said was inappropriate.

What we did last year at the end was stupid, Erdman said. Passing 30, 31, 32 bills in one vote? Thats stupid, thats what they do in (Washington) D.C., thats not what Nebraskans sent us here to do. Every bill should have a discussion and a vote.

Among Erdmans proposed rules changes are a measure that would not count present or not voting votes as part of a cloture motion that shuts off debate.

The proposed rules from Erdman also include reordering the priority motions used by senators to attempt to defeat a bill, a motion allowing senators to attempt to suspend any dilatory amendments, and the procedures for calling the question to end debate.

Other proposals from Erdman include eliminating secret votes for committee chairs and prohibiting members of the media from reporting on executive sessions of legislative committees  both long-standing practices of the Legislature.

Erdman said he plans to push the rules changes in 2024 before he is term-limited.

I dont care if it takes all 60 days, he said. When I leave next year, I want to leave this place better than I found it, and if it takes all 60 days, I want to do it. Thats a big commitment, but were the laughingstock of the country.

Cavanaugh, who changed tactics in the middle of last years session after a rule change prohibited how many priority motions could be made on a single bill per day, said the Legislature should focus more on policies that improve life for Nebraskans rather than midstream rules changes.

She said the focus should be on economic development for low-income wage earners in Nebraska, potential future funding shortfalls for public education because of what she described as irresponsible tax policies, and other social safety net programs.

We should be focused on improving the quality of life for every Nebraskan, starting with the most vulnerable, which is low-income children, Cavanaugh said. If that isnt our priority, weve got the wrong priority.

That doesnt mean there arent necessary rules changes  I think both things can exist at the same time, she added. In opening up a rules debate, there could be frivolous rules debates as well.

The 108th Legislature is scheduled to convene for its short session on Jan. 3.

Meet the Nebraska state senators making laws in 2024
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a longtime environmental lawyer and anti-vaccine activist who is running for president as an independent, will bring his longshot bid for the White House to Lincoln next week.

Kennedy, the nephew of President John F. Kennedy and the son of his slain brother, will hold a campaign rally from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at The Royal Grove on Dec. 12, his campaign announced Monday.

The stop is part of Kennedy's effort to appear on the November 2024 ballot in all 50 states  a feat that will require his campaign to gather thousands of signatures in most states, including Nebraska, where he would need 2,500 signatures from registered voters to appear on the ballot.

Other states may prove more difficult. Kennedy will need about 200,000 signatures to appear on the ballot in California, 145,000 in Florida and more than 110,000 in Texas, according to an online election news outlet.

Kennedy's campaign staff will gather signatures at his Lincoln rally. The live music venue where he's holding the rally has a capacity of around 1,000 people.

Normally, independent candidates pay companies millions of dollars to gather signatures, Kennedy, 69, said in a news release announcing his trip to Lincoln. Were taking a different route that starts with our thousands of volunteers in every state.

A spokeswoman for the Nebraska Secretary of State's office said candidates should file a sample copy of their petition with the office prior to gathering signatures.

Kennedy's campaign filed a sample petition on Tuesday afternoon, the spokeswoman said.

Once known as a prominent environmental attorney, Kennedy has become a leading anti-vaccine activist through efforts that date back decades but intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic.

When he launched his presidential campaign in April, Kennedy intended to challenge President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination.

But he changed course in October, launching an independent bid for the White House that drew the ire of the Republican National Committee and former President Donald Trumps campaign.

Kennedy, who holds better favorability ratings among Republicans than Democrats, has said that his intention is to "spoil" the election for both Trump and Biden.

A poll conducted by the New York Times and Siena College in October showed Kennedy trailing both Trump and Biden by an average of about 10 points in six key battleground states, including Arizona, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada and Wisconsin.

The poll suggested most would-be Kennedy voters supported third-party candidates or did not vote in the 2020 election.

Kennedy's visit to Nebraska is not a unique stop for presidential hopefuls, though candidates tend to hold rallies in Omaha, the state's largest city.

Photos: Presidential visits to Nebraska
BURLINGTON  Teenagers coming together at the Burlington Public Library soon will be working on solutions that could become a national model for combatting teen mental illness.

The library has received a federal grant designed to explore the issue of teen mental health through the lens of young people meeting at their local public libraries.

Burlington is one of only six communities nationwide selected for the grant program, which is being funded by the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.

The library has received $6,000 and will partner with other grant recipients in trying to leverage the ideas of young people in searching for new programs or services for teens struggling with mental illness.

Juan Rubio, who is administering the Nourishing Minds federal grant, said the Burlington library was chosen because library staff already has made an effort to serve teenagers through other special outreaches.

They had a strong connection with teens already, Rubio said. They really showed interest in how they wanted to go deeper.

The library will empanel a group of high schoolers and middle schoolers to spend several weeks on the project. Meeting in the library, the group will discuss teen mental health, and brainstorm for new approaches on the issue.

Similar work will be taking place at libraries in Oregon, New Jersey, Indiana, North Dakota and Kentucky.

Rubio said the ideas emerging from the grant project will be shared on a national level and could be implemented in cities across the country.

Emily Laidley, youth services librarian in Burlington, said 30 or 40 teens are regular visitors and participants in the librarys ongoing programs for young people. The Nourishing Minds group will be culled from that population and will continue working through the winter months.

Laidley said she applied for the grant because teens frequently discuss mental health issues, and many have asked the library to consider related programming.

The library is not just a place for books and reference materials, Laidley said, but it aims to serve the communitys needs in many ways.

Thats the beauty of the library, she said. The library is the communitys space.

Photos: Union Grove library treats kids to a preschool story time and craft activity Sara Grabarec youth services librarian at Graham Public Library in Union Grove Nanny Gaby Perron with Landon and Kinsley Berghuis at library story time Lazarus Miller and brother Ezekiel Miller together at Union Grove library story time Latisha Zeyen and her son, Isaac, 3, at Union Grove library story time and craft activity Lazarus Miller sits front and center during story time at Union Grove library Toddler Kinsley Berghuis snuggles with her nanny during Union Grove library story time Tyler Miller with his son, Ezekiel, 4, at Union Grove library story time Isaac Zeyen, 3, works on a paper truck during craft activity at Union Grove library
As promised, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers on Wednesday vetoed a Republican-authored bill that would have banned gender-affirming care for any Wisconsinite under 18.

The governor had repeatedly signaled plans to strike down the measure, which he said in a statement would prevent patients from receiving that basic, lifesaving care.

Further, and especially important to me personally, I am vetoing this bill in its entirety because I object to the Legislatures ongoing efforts to manufacture and perpetuate false, hateful, and discriminatory anti-LGBTQ policies and rhetoric in our state, Evers continued. This type of legislation, and the rhetoric beget by pursuing it, harms LGBTQ people and kids mental health, emboldens anti-LGBTQ hate and violence, and threatens the safety and dignity of LGBTQ Wisconsinites.

Assembly Bill 465 would have banned medical procedures for youth younger than 18 if done for the purpose of changing the minors body to correspond to a sex that is discordant with the minors biological sex, according to a Legislative Reference Bureau analysis.

The bill passed both legislative chambers on party line votes, with all Democratic lawmakers opposed.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, called the governors veto another harmful mistake in a post on X, the site formerly known as Twitter.

Such a life-altering decision should be made when youre an adult, not a child, Vos continued. Many countries, including Norway, Sweden, Finland, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands, do not allow for gender transition surgery before the age of 18.

Similar legislation in other states prohibits doctors from performing gender-affirming surgery, providing puberty blockers or prescribing gender-affirming hormone treatment for minors. Court challenges have been launched in several states, with opponents alleging bans on gender-affirming care violate doctors First Amendment rights and patients rights to equal protection under the law.

In Wisconsin, the bills co-authors  Rep. Scott Allen, R-Waukesha, and Sen. Duey Stroebel, R-Saukville  said in October the measure creates exceptions for when doctors provide care in accordance with a good faith medical decision of a parent or guardian of a minor born with a medically verifiable genetic disorder of sex development.

Protecting children from invasive and irreversible medical interventions is the right thing to do from both a scientific and ethical standpoint, Stroebel said in a statement. While the Governors veto of this legislation is certainly not surprising, it serves as a stark reminder of just how out of touch with reality Governor Evers is.

Those opposed to the measure, including members of the Wisconsin Legislative LGBTQ+ Caucus, have said merely introducing and discussing such a proposal is harmful to transgender Wisconsinites.

The Human Rights Campaign states gender-affirming care is medically necessary for the wellbeing of many transgender and non-binary people who experience symptoms of gender dysphoria, or distress that results from having ones gender identity not match their sex assigned at birth.

About 35% of transgender youth live in states that have passed bans on gender-affirming care, according to the organization.

19 states lack laws preventing housing discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity 19 states lack laws preventing housing discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity Nondiscrimination laws vary across the country Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington DC West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming
1. Yes. More than 70% of the downtown buildings are occupied; the area is thriving now.

2. Yes. With the new E-Center , a brewery and the county annex moving in, its on the rise.

3. No. There may be a lot of new businesses, but foot traffic is still slow on most days.

4. No. Its improving, but the issues of crime and homelessness are still major obstacles.

5. Unsure. The area seems to be rebounding, but its hard to say if the trend will continue.

Vote

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Holocaust expert Darryle Clott will visit the Holmen Public Library at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 12, to discuss the importance of Holocaust education and introduce the audience to the story of Mary Rostad  a brave young woman living in Brussels who became a spy with the Resistance when her city was overtaken by the Nazis.

Rostads memoir, Squirrel Is Alive: A Teenager in the Belgian Resistance & French Underground, will be available for purchase from Pearl Street Books, the news release states. The event is sponsored by Fulcrum Publishing.

Darryle Clott leads Holocaust educator workshops and is an associate of the Ethics in Leadership Institute at Viterbo University. She is a member of the Chancellors Community Council at UW-La Crosse. She is instrumental in bringing Holocaust survivors to the La Crosse community at Viterbo University, including Nobel Peace Prize winner Elie Wiesel, Presidential Medal of Honor winner Gerda Weissmann Klein, and Otto Franks stepdaughter Eva Schloss.

Clott has received numerous awards for her work, including the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, the Pope John XXIII Award for Distinguished Service from Viterbo University, and the Iverson Freking Ecumenical Recognition Award. Clott was the 2019-20 Mrs. Oktoberfest.

La Crosse County Library operates five locations in Bangor, Campbell, Holmen, Onalaska, and West Salem.
State Sen. Brad Pfaff, D-Onalaska, was appointed this week to serve on the State Building Commission. The commission oversees capital budget requests for all state facilities, including the Universities of Wisconsin.

Pfaff released this statement following the appointment:

Investing in our infrastructure will move Wisconsin forward and boost our economy. Im eager to work with my legislative colleagues and other members of the Building Commission to invest in our states buildings and universities.

A robust system of infrastructure is essential for the continued success of the Universities of Wisconsin System. When we modernize and construct our buildings, we invest in our local supply chain, employ skilled labor, and improve our quality of life.

Pfaff represents the 32nd Senate District, which includes La Crosse, Vernon, Crawford and southern Monroe counties.
The 1849 law that was widely interpreted as a near-complete abortion ban doesnt apply to abortions at all, a Dane County judge declared Tuesday.

The decision marks a key victory for Democrats and abortion rights advocates, who have fought to reinstate abortion rights in Wisconsin ever since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022, leading abortion clinics statewide to shutter.

The ruling, which is likely to be appealed, essentially means abortions in Wisconsin are legal until 20 weeks after fertilization.

Todays ruling is another important step forward in restoring and expanding access to abortion in Wisconsin, Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin chief strategy officer Michelle Velasquez said in a statement.

Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin already resumed doing abortions in Milwaukee and Madison in early September, two months after Dane County Judge Diane Schlipper ruled in a preliminary decision that the 174-year-old law didnt apply to the procedure.

The Tuesday order affirms Schlippers earlier decision, but since its a final ruling it allows parties to appeal the decision and gives abortion providers greater confidence to resume providing abortions.

Velasquez on Tuesday said the organization will resume doing abortions at its Sheboygan clinic as soon as possible. The clinic remained closed for months after the organization resumed doing abortions in Madison and Milwaukee as the prosecutor overseeing Sheboygan County said he would prosecute abortion providers under the 1849 law.

Wisconsin Right to Life executive director Heather Weininger called the Tuesday ruling truly disappointing.

Schlippers decision affirming abortion rights in Wisconsin came nearly 18 months after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. That high court decision led Wisconsin abortion clinics to shutter because many legal experts and abortion providers assumed the 1849 law widely interpreted as a near-complete abortion ban had sprung back to life.

Days after the high court ruling, Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul filed a lawsuit arguing that the 1849 law conflicted with later, more permissive abortion bans.

Doctors joined the case late last year to argue that the 174-year-old law didnt apply to abortions at all, but rather only feticide. They pointed to a 1994 Wisconsin Supreme Court case that found that the law only applied to somebody murdering a fetus by assaulting its mother, not consensual abortions.

Kaul initially filed the case against Republican legislative leaders, but the case is now filed against the prosecutors overseeing the counties that were home to abortion clinics before the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade: Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne, Milwaukee County District Attorney John Chisholm and Sheboygan County District Attorney Joel Urmanski.

Urmanski sought to dismiss the case earlier this year, but Schlipper rejected his request and instead ruled that the 1849 law doesnt apply to abortions at all. Urmanski didnt respond to a request for comment about the latest ruling or whether hell appeal it.

The doctors who joined the case since asked Schlipper to issue an injunction preventing prosecutors from going after them under the 1849 law.

Schlipper declined to issue such an order Tuesday, partially because she said the prosecutors who are defendants in the case already said they would abide by the courts final order.

Many expect the case to be eventually decided by the Wisconsin Supreme Court, which has a newfound liberal majority. Justice Janet Protasiewicz, who joined the court in August, has been vocal about her support for abortion rights.
On 5 Decembera Haitian American, pleaded guilty in a US court for his role in the July 2021 assassination of Haitis former president(2017-2021).

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On 5 December Brazils federal police (PF) and Paraguayan law enforcement authorities served dozens of warrants for arrest and search & seizure as part of Operation Dakovo, an investigation into an international arms trafficking network.

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On 5 December Perus constitutional court (TC) ordered the release of authoritarian former president(1990-2000), who is serving a 25-year sentence for human rights and corruption offences.

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On 5 December Mexicos Foreign Ministermet her Chinese counterpartduring her first official visit to China.

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KEARNEY  The University of Nebraska at Kearneys new sorority housing will be named after one of the schools most accomplished alumnae.

With support from the University of Nebraska Board of Regents, NU System President Ted Carter and UNK Chancellor Doug Kristensen, the 41,000-square-foot residence hall under construction on UNKs east campus will be known as Bess Furman Armstrong Hall.

Besss legacy is a testament to the power of education and the impact one individual can have on our nation and world, Kristensen said. As we celebrate the naming of Bess Furman Armstrong Hall, we are reminded of the vital role our institution plays in shaping the leaders of tomorrow and the trail Bess charted for future generations of UNK students.

A Danbury native, Furman Armstrong was destined for a career in journalism. Her father was publisher of the Danbury News and she learned to set type and assist at the newspaper office as a young child.

Furman Armstrong attended the Nebraska State Normal School at Kearney (now UNK), where she served as the first woman editor of The Antelope student newspaper before graduating in 1918.

She worked as a schoolteacher before landing her first job with a Nebraska newspaper and wrote an award-winning report on presidential candidate Al Smiths campaign appearance in Omaha. That led to an Associated Press position in Washington, where she became the first woman reporter regularly assigned to cover the U.S. House of Representatives by a press association.

Furman Armstrong covered the White House during five presidential administrations, as a reporter for the Associated Press from 1929 to 1936, then as a correspondent for The New York Times from 1943 to 1961. She became lifelong friends with former first lady Eleanor Roosevelt and used her writing talent to champion womens rights and influence the role of women in politics.

In 1961, Furman Armstrong joined the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare as a public affairs assistant. She became head of the departments press information division the following year, making her the first woman to hold a top public affairs position with a cabinet agency. Furman Armstrong also worked for the Office of War Information during World War II, wrote a history of the U.S. Public Health Service and authored two books  White House Profile and her autobiography, Washington By-Line.

She served as president of the Womens National Press Club in 1946 and was inducted into the Nebraska Journalism Hall of Fame in 1975, six years after her death.

Bess Furman Armstrong Hall is scheduled to open in January, with a ribbon-cutting event planned for Feb. 1.

Im happy that the building will be named after a strong, accomplished woman, like the women who will live there, UNK Student Body President Temo Molina said during last weeks Board of Regents meeting.

Located just east of the Nebraskan Student Union, the 140-bed residence hall features dedicated housing pods, chapter rooms, lounges and study areas for each Panhellenic sorority  Alpha Omicron Pi, Alpha Phi, Alpha Xi Delta and Gamma Phi Beta  along with an outdoor patio and green space. There are flexible housing units designed to meet the chapters future needs as well.

It also includes chapter rooms and a shared lounge for UNKs multicultural chapters  the Sigma Lambda Gamma and Lambda Theta Nu sororities and Sigma Lambda Beta fraternity  giving them a permanent on-campus home for the first time.

The new sorority housing is part of a $32.65 million project that replaces University Residence North and University Residence South. Located directly south of the sorority building, Martin Hall reopened in January following a major renovation that transformed the nearly 70-year-old residence hall into a modern living space for UNK fraternity members.
Justice Department Announces New Surge of Resources to Fight Violent Crime

The Justice Department, together with numerous law enforcement partners, met today at the Memphis Police Departments (MPD) Real Time Crime Center to announce a new initiative to surge law enforcement tools and resources to target gangs and other violent groups who are threatening and upending the safety and security of communities in Memphis.

Violent crime deprives communities of a fundamental sense of security in their own homes and neighborhoods, said Acting Assistant Attorney Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Departments Criminal Division. This violent crime initiative will bring additional tools and resources used to investigate and prosecute violent crime and apply those tools to gangs and groups who are harming and disrupting communities here in Memphis.

The new initiative includes federal prosecutors from the Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, the nations foremost experts in charging federal racketeering (RICO) crimes, as well as Assistant U.S. Attorneys already working in Memphis and dedicated investigative agents, analysts, and forensic experts from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, and MPD.

Through data-driven, targeted, and focused enforcement against the worst-of-the-worst violent criminals and organized groups, coupled with a strong focus on crime prevention, intervention, and reentry, I believe all of us, working together, can make an incredible difference and secure a safer future for all of Memphis, said Acting Assistant Attorney General Argentieri.

As U.S. Attorney and a lifelong Memphian, I know the citizens of this city are sick and tired of gun violence and violent crime, said U.S. Attorney Kevin G. Ritz for the Western District of Tennessee. I am too. The threat from organized criminal enterprises requires that we bring significant resources to bear. These additional prosecutors, working hand-in-hand with our offices experienced Assistant U.S. Attorneys and law enforcement partners, will build cases against gang members, trigger-pullers, and shot-callers.

The initiative will also include efforts to invest in prevention and intervention, and the department will work with the Western District of Tennessees innovative Reentry Court Program and community organizations to assist offenders in reentering and reintegrating into their communities. As part of the announcement, Acting Assistant Attorney General Argentieri and U.S. Attorney Ritz met with community members to hear directly from them about the violence and gang activity in their neighborhoods.

Initiatives like this are not about one takedown  theyre about working in partnership to build a long term and sustainable plan to fight gun crime. ATF Memphis does that every day, said ATF Director Steven M. Dettelbach. This summer, with the MPD and other state, local, and federal partners, we focused efforts here, using crime gun intelligence to help protect the people of this great city. Now we are here with additional partners both locally and nationally to continue that work  that impact. By combining traditional investigative techniques with advancements in technology, ATF is creating data-driven investigations that turn into evidence-driven prosecutions of the most dangerous offenders.

This violent crime initiative serves as a force multiplier to empower law enforcement, our partners, and communities to proactively fight against violent crime in big cities and small towns across our nation, said Executive Assistant Director Timothy Langan of the FBIs Criminal, Cyber, Response, and Services Branch. The FBI, in close collaboration with the Justice Department and our law enforcement partners, is committed to tackling violent crime threats in a methodical and effective approach to dismantle the roots of crime and reclaim our communities, for a promising future for our neighborhoods.

FBI Memphis, our dedicated special agents, task force officers, intelligence analysts, and professional staff are ready to join our partners in supporting this new initiative to disrupt and dismantle the criminal enterprises that are threatening our communities," said Special Agent in Charge Douglas DePodesta of the FBI Memphis Field Office. Together we not only investigate and enforce the law, but we also live in, and are a part of the communities affected by the violent crime that is overwhelmingly the result of violent gangs. It is only together that we will be able to target and bring to prosecution the gang members and others who are driving violence in Memphis and throughout the area.

I am excited about the announcement by our U.S. Attorney Kevin Ritz regarding an increased focus on violent crime in the city of Memphis, said MPD Chief Cerelyn C.J. Davis. This new initiative is a positive step in the right direction, which fosters a since of renewed hope for improved quality of life for our citizens and visitors.

Joining Acting Assistant Attorney General Argentieri and U.S. Attorney Ritz in the press conference today were ATF Director Dettelbach, MPD Assistant Chief Shawn Jones, and FBI Special Agent in Charge DePodesta.

This story has been published on: 2023-12-06. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Spaniards have been turning out in force today to cast a vote for democracy and end almost 40 years of dictatorial rule.

The majority of the 25 million Spaniards eligible to vote are expected to endorse a new constitution in the historic referendum.

It would strip the monarchy of much of its current powers, many of which were handed down by the late dictator General Franco, who died in 1975.

King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia support the move and were among the first to cast their vote in a village school near Madrid.

Prime Minister Adolfo Suarez, leader of the Union of the Democratic Centre UCD, a moderate centre-right coalition, has drafted the new democratic constitution. Happy birthday, love.

It could eventually put him out of a job if new elections are held as a result.

Last June saw Spains first elections to the Cortes (parliament) since 1936 and in which Mr Suarez won 34% of the votes.

Tens of thousands of children, not able to vote, still had reason to celebrate as they have had the day off with schools converted into polling stations.

But there was still an air of tension in the country after a recent spell of murders and bombings, attributed to Basque separatists in the northern Basque region.

Riot police and soldiers are on high alert, guarding polling stations and communication centres.

The fear of violence is reported to have led an estimated 250,000 Spaniards to cast a postal vote.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

The new constitution was overwhelmingly supported by voters with newspapers the following morning congratulating Spaniards with headlines such as Good morning, democracy.

It established Spain as a parliamentary monarchy.

Spain continued to shake off the Franco years which had left the country alienated internationally.

It invested heavily to win European support and became a member of the EC, now the EU, in 1986.

This required it to open its economy, modernise its industrial base and improve infrastructure.

The country has been dogged by separatist violence in a long-running campaign by the Basque Fatherland and Liberty (ETA), founded in 1959 and dedicated to promoting Basque independence.
Several factors make it difficult to evaluate the LRT Barra stations popularity, LRT Company chair Ho Cheong Kei told the press yesterday.

The LRT Company organized a media preview of the Barra station and the Barra Extension of the railway yesterday afternoon.

On the sidelines of the event, Ho made the response when asked how much charm will be added to the railway after the opening of the Barra Extension and station on Dec. 8.

Believing there will be more passengers with an additional station, he said it was difficult to give any figure.

He cited several factors that cause the difficulty, including the number of tourists, the intention of residents to use the railway and the location of peoples workplaces.

He pledged constant observation to evaluate the frequency of carriage departures. Under normal circumstances, he added, trains will depart at intervals ranging from 7.5 to 10 minutes.

Several lawmakers have said the low frequency of departures had discouraged people from using the railway.

Lawmaker Ron Lam has also criticized the LRT Companys lack of a publicized departure schedule for making time management impossible.

Ho said technical difficulties was why there was no publicized schedule when the matter was raised yesterday.

He said data needs to be extracted from the system to create a schedule, which in his opinion is very difficult. He also said system crashes must be avoided during the data extraction process.

Ho was reserved when asked how many workers are needed for the new station. He said evaluations will be conducted constantly.

Currently, although LRT ticketing counters accept a variety of payment methods, these methods are not applicable to direct gate entry, unlike in Kaohsiung Metro, for example, where entry gates accept tap-and-go debit and credit cards, Apple Pay, Android Pay, Samsung Pay, as well as UnionPay and Line Pay transit QR codes.

When asked about more payment options at entry gates, the LRT chief said the company is open to the proposal, adding that Macau is set to further merge with the Greater Bay Area and mainland payment options should be introduced.

Nonetheless, reiterating his style of one step at a time, he told the public to have patience and things will happen in stages.

He said the LRT started with single-journey tickets and the LRT stored-value card only, before introducing Macau Pass.

When asked by the Times what technical difficulties the company is facing in introducing more payment methods, the LRT chief raised the topic of commercial challenges.

And when it comes to commercial challenges, please allow me to refrain from commenting too extensively, Ho said.

The new station has set aside spaces for commercial or retail activities. Ho said a tender has recently been opened, but currently no information as to which operators or what type of operations can be disclosed.

On interchange discounts with buses, Ho said negotiations had been conducted but had not yet borne fruit.

Barra Station to open Friday

The first train from Barra to Taipa will depart at 6:30 a.m. Friday. At the same time, a train will depart from the Jockey Club towards Barra. The LRT Company head, Ho Cheong Kei, said a gift pack containing a glass paperweight resembling the LRT carriage and a special-edition LRT stored-value card will be distributed to passengers on the first train from Barra at the station.

LRT Co. reiterates stance on constant service improvement

In response to lawmaker Lam Lon Wais written inquiry, director of Transport Kelvin Lam cited the LRT Company as pledging constant service improvements.

In his inquiry dated Nov. 3, the lawmaker said that on an evening in October, when a fireworks show ended, groups of spectators rushed to different types of transport to either head home or to their next stops. The condition further deteriorated with traffic detours and road suspensions.

The lawmaker said that despite LRT ticketing counters accepting multiple payment methods, these methods cannot be used directly at gates.

The number of available methods is quite limited, the lawmaker noted, citing neighboring regions as allowing pre-ticketing and entry by payment QR codes.

There was another occasion of passenger congestion at ticketing counters. Another evening saw long queues of concert-goers lining up for LRT single-entry tickets at the Cotai West station after a concert. There were complaints claiming the railway accepts too few payment methods at entry gates.

As such, the lawmaker asked the government how it would improve the use of LRT by means such as cross-transport interchange privileges or perks, and the introduction of a wider choice of payment methods at gates.

In response, the LRT Company was only cited as saying that the frequency of departures will increase during or following major events to better relocate event goers. Director Lam also noted that public bus operators will also be instructed to deploy more buses during and following major events. AL
The public should have a better understanding of palliative care and advance healthcare directives, lawmaker Si Ka Lon has said in a parliamentary pre-agenda speech.

In an aging society, besides older adults welfare and care and medical advances, the government should also improve social understanding on palliative care and allow advance healthcare directives to be set, the lawmaker said.

Doing so would protect the peoples right to know, privacy and decision-making regarding illness, life and death.

He called for better promotion on how people could pass their final years in dignity and tranquility.

Currently, the two local hospitals provide palliative care services, as well as relief-oriented wards for patients with terminal illnesses or in terminal stages.

Despite this, the lawmaker believes the services are insufficiently promoted, lack support on a policy level and do not cultivate a workforce. Work is needed to meet future demand, the lawmaker suggested.

Si also recommended the introduction of advance healthcare directives, sometimes known as do-not-resuscitate (DNR), to Macau.

In 2019, a government committee on life ethics and science agreed on the necessity of finding ways for an advance healthcare directive system.

In 2021, a medical committee started studying the systems feasibility. However, the lawmaker said there have been no updates so far.

Citing mainland China, the lawmaker said that as of 2021, the mainland had trialed palliative care services in 91 cities, with more than 1,000 healthcare facilities providing such services.

He added that Hong Kong had also recently created a legal framework for advance healthcare directives and do-not-resuscitate, showing respect to patients rights to choose and improving patients quality of life.

The lawmaker suggested the government make actual and meaningful moves towards realizing palliative care and related services in Macau, including, but not limited to, conducting public consultation.
A young Macau man studying in Australia has reportedly lost nearly HKD820,000 after a phone scammer accused him of involvement in multiple fraud cases. According to the Judiciary Police, the scammer claimed to work for an Australian telecommunications operator. The scammer contacted the student in October, claiming the students phone number was involved in multiple fraud cases in Beijing. The student was transferred to Beijing Haidian District Public Security Bureau and accused of opening Australian bank accounts for multiple transnational money laundering activities. Within the next month, he transferred HKD819,000 into the designated account in multiple installments to cooperate with the investigation.

Related
Credit rating agency Moodys cut its outlook for Chinese sovereign bonds to negative yesterday, citing risks from a slowing economy and a crisis in its property sector.

Moodys said the downgrade, its first for China since 2017, reflects risks from financing troubles of local and regional governments and state-owned enterprises.

The worlds second-biggest economy had been slowing before a 2020 crackdown on excessive borrowing brought on defaults by dozens of property developers. Those troubles have crimped local government finances and also imperiled some lenders, further dragging on the economy.

The need for government intervention to support banks and local governments poses broad downside risks to Chinas fiscal, economic and institutional strength. The outlook change also reflects the increased risks related to structurally and persistently lower medium-term economic growth, Moodys said in a statement.

Chinas Ministry of Finance said it was disappointed with Moodys decision to lower the outlook.

Since the beginning of this year, in the face of the complex and harsh international situations, and against the background of an unstable global economic recovery and weakening momentum, Chinas macro economy has continued to recover and has been advancing steadily, the ministry said, according to an online transcript of remarks at a Q&A session yesterday.

Shares retreated in China yesterday, with Hong Kongs Hang Seng dropping 1.9% and the Shanghai Composite index down 1.7%.

Separately, Moodys affirmed Chinas A1 long-term local and foreign-currency issuer ratings.

The credit rating firm said it expects Chinas economy to grow at a 4% annual pace in 2024 and 2025, slowing to an average of 3.8% for the rest of the decade.

Factors such as weaker demographics, as the country ages, will likely drive a decline in potential growth to around 3.5% by 2030, Moodys said.

To offset the weaker property sector, China will need substantial and coordinated reforms to support more consumer spending and higher value-added manufacturing to support strong growth, Moodys said.

Chinas recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic faltered after an initial burst of activity earlier in the year faded faster than expected. Despite prolonged weakness in consumer spending and exports, the economy is expected to grow at about a 5% annual pace this year.

Chinas economy still has huge development resilience and potential and will remain an important engine for global economic growth in the future, the Finance Ministry said. ZEN SOO, HONG KONG, MDT/AP
Oxford University Press has named rizz as its word of the year, highlighting the popularity of a term used by Generation Z to describe someones ability to attract or seduce another person.

It topped Swiftie (an enthusiastic fan of Taylor Swift), situationship (an informal romantic or sexual relationship) and prompt (an instruction given to an artificial intelligence program) in the annual decision by experts at the publisher of the multivolume Oxford English Dictionary.

The four finalists were selected by a public vote and the winner was announced yesterday [Macau time].

Rizz is believed to come from the middle of the word charisma, and can be used as a verb, as in to rizz up, or chat someone up, the publisher said.

It speaks to how younger generations create spaces  online or in person  where they own and define the language they use, the publisher said. From activism to dating and wider culture, as Gen Z comes to have more impact on society, differences in perspectives and lifestyle play out in language, too.

American publisher Merriam-Webster included rizz on its list of the years top words but gave first place to authentic.
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape said yesterday he will sign a bilateral security pact with Australia during a visit this week.

Marape said the agreement to be signed with his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese on Thursday will involve Australian police officers working under the command of Papua New Guinea Police Commissioner David Manning.

The security arrangement is in the best interest of Papua New Guinea and also for Australia and its regional security interests, Marape said in a statement.

Cabinet will fully endorse the finer details before Prime Minister Albanese and I sign off, Marape added.

Albaneses office did not immediately respond to a request for comment yesterday.

A security treaty between Australia and its nearest neighbor, which is strategically crucial in the U.S. partners battle against China for regional influence, had been expected to be signed in June.

But after a security agreement that Papua New Guinea signed with the United States sparked student protests in May in the South Pacific island nations second-largest city, Lae, Marape announced the Australian pact would be delayed.

Papua New Guineas deputy prime minister, John Rosso, told Australian Broadcasting Corp. that the latest agreement would aim to build the capabilities of both the developing nations military and police. MDT/AP
An estimated 400 Rohingya Muslims believed to be aboard two boats adrift in the Andaman Sea without adequate supplies could die if more is not done to rescue them, according to the U.N. refugee agency and aid workers.

The number of Rohingya Muslims fleeing by boats in a seasonal exodus  usually from squalid, overcrowded refugee camps in Bangladesh  has been rising since last year due to cuts to food rations and a spike in gang violence.

There are about 400 children, women and men looking death in the eye if there are no moves to save these desperate souls, Babar Baloch, the agencys Bangkok-based regional spokesperson, told The Associated Press.

The whereabouts of the other boat were unclear.

The boats apparently embarked from Bangladesh and are reported to have been at sea for about two weeks, he said.

The captain of one of the boats, contacted by the AP, said he had 180 to 190 people on board. They were out of food and water and the engine was damaged. The captain, who gave his name as Maan Nokim, said he feared all on board will die if they do not receive help.

On Sunday, Nokim said the boat was 320 kilometers from Thailands west coast.

A Thai navy spokesperson, contacted Monday, said he had no information about the boats.

The location is about the same distance from Indonesias northernmost province of Aceh, where another boat with 139 people landed Saturday on Sabang Island, off the tip of Sumatra, Baloch said. Those on the ship included 58 children, 45 women and 36 men  the typical balance of those making the sea journey, he said. Hundreds more arrived in Aceh last month.

About 740,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled Buddhist-majority Myanmar to the camps in Bangladesh since August 2017, after a brutal counterinsurgency campaign tore through their communities. Myanmar security forces have been accused of mass rapes, killings and the burning of thousands of Rohingya homes, and international courts are considering whether their actions constituted genocide.

Most of the refugees leaving the camps by sea attempt to reach Muslim-dominated Malaysia, hoping to find work there. Thailand turns them away or detains them. Indonesia, another Muslim-dominated country where many end up, also puts them in detention.

Baloch said if the two boats adrift are not given assistance, the world may witness another tragedy such as in December 2022, when a boat with 180 aboard went missing in one of the darkest such incidents in the region.

The aid group Save the Children said in a Nov. 22 report that 465 Rohingya children had arrived in Indonesia by boat over the previous week and the the number of refugees taking to the seas had increased by more than 80%.

It said more than 3,570 Rohingya Muslims had left Bangladesh and Myanmar this year, up from nearly 2,000 in the same period of 2022. Of those who left this year, 225 are known to have died or were missing, with many others not accounted for.

The desperate situation of Rohingya families is forcing them to take unacceptable risks in search of a better life. These perilous journeys show that many Rohingya refugees have lost all hope, Sultana Begum, the groups manager for humanitarian policy and advocacy, said in a statement. GRANT PECK, BANGKOK, MDT/AP
The process to urgently request a new Macau Identification Document (BIR) will be suspended, except for very special cases, during the launch of the new BIR card Dec. 15, Identification Services Bureau (DSI) director Chao Wai Ieng, told a press conference yesterday.

According to Chao, replacement the old BIR card means urgent services (issuance of the new document in 3 working days) will be disrupted and generally suspended except in very special and justified cases.

This suspension will end Jan. 12, 2024.

The new BIR will have new security features to tackle forgeries as well as the removal of some information such as the date of first issuance from the visible part of the document, with this and other data to be stored in the cards chip.

Chao said citizens not currently in Macau can apply for a BIR renewal via the Macao One Account (as those in Macau can also do) as long as their account is active and has a passport photo in the One Account. However, they will still have to physically collect the new card in Macau.

To renew BIRs, driving licenses and other documents, citizens need a QR code provided by a specific network of photography shops.

The government requires the QR Code because it prevents people from reusing old photos when renewing documents because it expires one year from the upload of the photo.

In the first year, the DSI estimates the new model will replace about 50,000 BIRs (due to their expiration date).

The major uptake of the new card will be between 2024 and 2026 when DSI estimates there will be some 400,000 replacements cards.

Chao also said residents with lifetime BIRs (Senior Citizens) do not need to replace their cards with new ones.

He expressed hopes that citizens will not rush to get the new BIRs and, in doing so, tie up the system and cause delays and other issues for those who need to renew them due to expiration.
* Next Stop

 The LRT Barra station, to open Friday, will feature commercial spaces, though LRT head still doubts its popularity; pledges improvements

* DSI | Govt replaces 70 workers with automated kiosks

* Macau World Heritage Exhibition Hall underway

* The process to urgently request a new BIR will be suspended, except for very special cases, during the launch of the new card

* Lawmaker Si Ka Lon calls for awareness on palliative care

* World carbon dioxide emissions increase again

DOWNLOAD PDF

Wednesday, December 6, 2023  edition no. 4383
Chinese leader Xi Jinping spoke of a strengthened political mutual trust and international coordination with Belarus after he met with the European countrys president in Beijing, according to official media.

China has sought to make Belarus a core member of its Belt and Road Initiative to build infrastructure with nations from Malaysia to Greece. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has become increasingly isolated following a crackdown on political opponents and his support for ally Russia in its war on Ukraine.

But the heavily state-controlled economy of Belarus has dimmed possibilities for major economic cooperation with China.

China opposes external interference in Belarus internal affairs, Xi was quoted as saying by the official Xinhua News Agency as saying, a reflection of Chinas unofficial alliance with authoritarian states from Cuba to Russia in opposition to the U.S.-led liberal democratic global order.

Xinhua said Xi and Lukashenko also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis, but the news agency did not give details of their discussion about the conflict.

Russia used Belarus as a staging ground for troops and equipment before Russian President Vladimir Putins full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.

A Yale University study published last month reported that Belarus also has facilitated Russias systematic effort to identify, collect, transport, and re-educate Ukraines children during the war. More than 2,400 Ukrainian children have been taken to Belarus from Russia-occupied parts of Ukraine, according to the study. MDT/AP
At the age of 13, Lourdes Godinez immigrated to Madison with her family in the 1980s. Along with facing financial difficulties and a language barrier, her family had no clothes that were appropriate for the Wisconsin winter they faced as soon as they arrived in Madison.

Fortunately, Godinezs mother connected with Ilda Thomas, the founder of Centro Hispano, a local nonprofit serving Dane Countys Latino community. With Centro Hispanos help, Godinez and her family were able to receive warm winter clothes and financial assistance.

I feel very thankful, Godinez said. Theres no words that compensate what was given to not only me, but for my siblings and my mom.

Today, Godinez is the one helping those in need through her position as a health care insurance navigator for Centro Hispano. Every day, Godinez helps an average of nearly 20 people enroll in health insurance and navigate the health care system.

Theres so much need, Godinez said. To be where I am right now, I help so many people. I can see their faces, and this is an everyday thing.

Godinezs experience mirrors that of several Latino immigrants who have found Centro Hispano in a moment of need and have gone on to make a difference themselves. Mario Garcia Sierra, who immigrated to Madison from Guatemala City in March 2003, stepped into Centro Hispano for the first time that April. After graduating from UW-Madison, Garcia Sierra worked at Centro for four years before taking a job at Madison Gas and Electric, and later served on Centro Hispanos board.

Norma Gallegos Valles currently works as Centro Hispanos workforce and career pathways manager.

I moved to the U.S. when I was 16, and the first place that I found that gave me a home and a sense of belonging was Centro, Gallegos Valles said. Its a very transformative space because I just havent found what I found here anywhere else.

Founded in 1983 by Thomas, Centro Hispano began by responding to the needs of Dane Countys growing Cuban refugee population. Since then, the organization has evolved to support the concerns of the countys expanding Latino community. Today, the mission of Centro Hispano is to give Latino families and individuals the tools to thrive both personally and professionally through programming and community engagement opportunities. The local nonprofit offers several youth programs, case managers who provide bilingual assistance and career-building opportunities.

On Thursday, the organization will observe 40 years at a sold-out celebration at Monona Terrace.

An interesting ride

Over the past 10 years, Centro has grown from a staff of nine to nearly 40 and has doubled its program offerings. In 2017, it opened another office space in Sun Prairie to expand its reach in Dane County. The organization serves around 7,000 individuals.

At the heart of the growth has been Centros current executive director, Karen Menendez Coller, who took the position in 2013. Menendez Coller who grew up in El Salvador, immigrated to Los Angeles with her parents as a child and pursued a career in public health before moving to Madison.

She transformed the organization, Garcia Sierra said. We had a small model when she came but she totally expanded that model. She was able to fundraise more money. With her presence in the community, she has her own style. Its very unique.

When Menendez Coller moved to Madison, she had initially planned to work at the university before connecting with Gloria Reyes, former board president of Centro Hispano, who persuaded her to consider the organizations executive director position. Since taking the role, Menendez Coller has gotten a front-row seat to just how treasured Centro Hispano is by community members and those who seek its services.

Its been an interesting ride, Menendez Coller said. I walked in not really understanding the history and what this organization meant for the Latinx community and all the complexity that comes with that. Its been really beautiful to see.

Menendez Coller takes pride in the organizations community-centered programming that has shifted from being family- and youth-oriented to becoming more wrap around through the organizations workforce training program, health care navigation services and formal immigration program. The needs of the citys Latino community are not unlike those of the general population, she noted, citing concerns around housing, mental health, substance abuse and education.

The Latinx community is the fastest-growing community across the state, and the Madison area reflects this too, Menendez Coller said. There needs to be a central focus on the Latinx community across the board in all areas, employment, well-being, education, basic needs, access to resources.

Immigration is also a major issue that Centro is navigating through its partnerships with the Community Immigration Law Center and Dane Countys Immigration Affairs office, Menendez Coller said. Over the last year, both Godinez and Gallegos Valles have noticed a jump in asylum seekers looking for services related to employment and health care, which Centro has responded to through the development of training programs and services tailored to the specific needs of those seeking asylum.

With the new asylum seekers coming in we were able to respond quickly with the workforce team and the immigration team, so its an internal collaboration within our own work, Gallegos Valles said. Once they have their work permit, how can we help them get those jobs? How we make them feel comfortable and have those resumes ready?

A deserving space

Forty years on, Centro is also inching closer to the completion of its new building. Currently, the nonprofit is located in an old print shop at 810 W. Badger Road. Amid so much growth, the original space has limited in-person programming, which is something Centros staff is looking forward to offering more of in the new space. With an estimated completion date of February or March, the organization is $1.7 million from its total fundraising goal of $20 million, which Menendez Coller aims to reach by the end of 2023.

Menendez Coller and her team are also excited about the new buildings environmental features which will include solar panels. Additionally, it was extremely important for the organizations new building to remain on the evolving South Side, home to the highest concentration of low-income Latino residents in the city.

South Madison is a hotspot for the Latinx community, it makes sense to be most accessible for the needs of our families, Menendez Coller said. The area is incredibly historic too, and we are committed to keeping that community-based history alive.

As the new building has started to come together, Gallegos Valles said Centros staff will sometimes stand across from the construction site and start dreaming of all the possibilities the new space will be able to offer the rapidly expanding organization.

Karen has allowed us to dream big and sometimes it does take time and so its almost like seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, Gallegos Valles said. Its a space thats deserving of our work.
An Iowa County man is potentially facing his sixth OWI after he crashed head-on into another driver, who later died of his injuries.

Iowa County deputies were dispatched to a two vehicle crash in the township of Moscow just before 11:30 a.m. Tuesday. Thomas Naughtin, 54, of Blanchardville had been driving his Ford F-150 North on Highway 78 when he crossed the center line, striking a Toyota Sienna driven by Gary Gruenenfelder, 69, of Blanchardville. Blanchardville EMS took Gruenenfelder to Monroe Hospital, where he died.

Naughtin was taken to UW Hospital in Madison, and is facing pending charges of inattentive driving, operating left of center causing death and homicide by intoxicated use of vehicle. He has five previous OWI convictions.
Photo Credit: Alamy Stock Photo

Driving is a way of life for most Americans. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that there are more than 120 million vehicles used for commuting, and research conducted by Gallup found that 83 percent of adults drive at least several times per week. Even though driving is one of the most popular modes of transportation, its not without risk.

Research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that in 2017, driving was responsible for 37,133 fatalities. Adjusted for population, thats 11.4 driving fatalities for every 100,000 people in the U.S.

Driving has long been a leading cause of death among teensyoung drivers have less experience and are more likely to engage in risky driving behavior. There has been a slight rise in traffic fatalities over the past five years, but the longer term trend shows that fewer people are dying as a result of car accidents.

Despite safety improvements over the past 25 years, certain times of the day and week are still more dangerous than others for drivers. Car accidents can occur at any time, but data from the NHTSA shows that fatal accidents are more likely to occur on nights and weekends. In 2017, there were 70 percent more fatal accidents between 6-9 PM than between 6-9 AM. Likewise, compared to Monday-Thursday, Friday-Sunday saw 25 percent more fatal crashes per day.

Timing is not the only factor that influences traffic fatalities; location matters too. The likelihood of getting into any car accident is higher in urban areas, but the likelihood of being involved in a fatal accident is higher in rural areas. According to the IIHS, only 19 percent of Americans live in rural areas and 30 percent of the miles traveled by vehicles occur in rural areas, but almost half of traffic fatalities happen in these locations. Within rural areas, crash deaths are also more likely to occur on local and collector roads rather than on interstates.

According to the Federal Highway Administration, rural collector roads and local roads may not be fully paved or have clearly delineated directions of travel, increasing the likelihood of collision. In addition, the speed limit on rural roads is usually higher than on urban roads, and crashes that occur at higher speeds can be more severe. These factors are compounded by limited (or delayed) access to health care services in many rural areas.

Collisions arent the only danger for drivers. Cars are also subject to thefta crime that cost Americans about $6 billion in 2017. The good news is that vehicle thefts have also been trending down over the past two decades. In 2017, the number of vehicle thefts nationwide was about a third lower than what it was in 1998 and the rate of vehicle thefts per 100,000 people was nearly halved.

Similar to motor vehicle accidents and fatalities, location is a big determinant in the likelihood of having a car stolen. Most car thefts occur in Western states, such as New Mexico, Nevada, and California. By contrast, states in the Northeast, such as Vermont, Maine, and New York, tend to have lower rates of motor vehicle theft.

When considering the likelihood of collision, traffic fatalities, motor vehicle thefts, and inclement weather, some cities are more dangerous for drivers than others. To identify the most dangerous cities for drivers, researchers at CarInsuranceCompanies.com used data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Fatality Analysis Reporting System, Allstates Americas Best Drivers Report, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Uniform Crime Reporting Program, and the National Centers for Environmental Information Comparative Climatic Data to create a composite score for each of the largest U.S. cities based on the following factors:

Motor vehicle fatality rate (50%)

Relative collision likelihood (30%)

Motor vehicle theft rate (10%)

Annual days with precipitation (10%)

Only the 183 most populous cities in the U.S. with available data from all of the sources were included. Heres what the study found:
The Madison City Council passed a symbolic resolution Tuesday night calling for a cease-fire in the war between Israel and Hamas, joining the ranks of other local governments throughout the country calling for an end to the conflict.

The council unanimously backed the call for a cease-fire after nearly an hour and a half of impassioned comment from residents who overwhelmingly supported the resolution.

Many of the speakers were Palestinian residents of Madison, some of whom shared stories of relatives being killed by Israeli airstrikes in the densely populated enclave that is controlled by Hamas, an armed Palestinian militant group.

I have no information about many of them in Gaza, Madisonian Samir El-Omari said of his family members there.

Laurie Zimmerman, a rabbi at Shaarei Shamayim, said her faith taught her to not stand idly by while innocent civilians are killed by the Israeli military.

The destruction of Gaza has caused suffering on such a massive scale it is hard to comprehend, Zimmerman said.

Ald. Nasra Wehelie, who represents the Southwest Side and proposed the resolution, charged the Israeli military with a collective punishment on the civilian population of Gaza.

Its important that we use our voices as policy makers to stand up for justice, Wehelie said of the war, noting that city governments from Seattle to Detroit have also backed the call for a cease-fire.

Some residents Tuesday night criticized the councils resolution for not explicitly condemning Hamas violent incursion into Israel on Oct. 7 that saw about 1,200 Israeli civilians and soldiers killed and about 240 others kidnapped into Gaza, triggering Israels ongoing invasion and bombing.

The resolution didnt directly condemn Israels actions in the war either but rather called for political action to both de-escalate the crisis and to prioritize truth, reconciliation, restitution and the building of a future for the Palestinian and Israeli people.

Jeremy Tunis, who is on the board of directors of the Jewish Federation of Madison, called the resolution pathetic.

Hamas unleashed a genocidal attack on Oct. 7, Tunis said. Any country in the world would have a right to respond in the way that Israel did.

In addition to the call for a cease-fire, the council backed a statement condemning antisemitism and Islamophobia.

While weve just passed a resolution that is primarily a subject of foreign affairs, I want to make sure that our council, with our finite resources and time, is prepared to do the work necessary here at home to keep our communities safe and free from hate, said Ald. Regina Vidaver, who represents the Near West Side in District 5.

Other action

In other business, the council made an interim update to the citys 2018 comprehensive plan Tuesday night. The updated plan mirrors land-use and streets recommendations from 17 area and neighborhood development plans adopted in the past five years. Notably, the update now allows for buildings up to 12 stories to be built on parts of Regent Street.

The council also finalized $11.3 million in funding from the citys Affordable Housing Fund for five low-cost housing projects. The funding secures about 300 low-income units across Neighborhood House Apartments on the Near West Side, and the Ellis Park Apartments, University Park Commons II, the Yellowstone Apartments, and Merchant Place Apartments, all between Midvale Boulevard and Gammon Road on the West Side.
Fewer planes and helicopters will be flying tourists over Mount Rushmore and other national monuments and parks as new regulations take effect that are intended to protect the serenity of some of the most beloved natural areas in the United States.

The air tours have pitted tour operators against visitors frustrated with the noise for decades, but it has come to a head as new management plans are rolled out at nearly two dozen national parks and monuments.

One of the strictest yet was recently announced at Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park, where tour flights will essentially be banned from getting within a half-mile of the South Dakota sites starting in April.

I dont know what were going to be able to salvage, complained Mark Schlaefli, a co-owner of Black Hills Aerial Adventures who is looking for alternative routes.

The regulations are the result of a federal appeals court finding three years ago that the National Park Service and the Federal Aviation Administration failed to enforce a 2000 law governing commercial air tours over the parks and some tribal lands. A schedule was crafted for setting rules, and many are wrapping up now.

But an industry group is considering litigation, and an environmental coalition already has sued over one plan.

Critics argue that the whirr of chopper blades is drowning out the sound of birds, bubbling lava and babbling brooks. That in turn disrupts the experiences of visitors and the tribes who call the land around the parks home.

Is that fair?" asked Kristen Brengel of the National Parks Conservation Association, noting that visitors on the ground far outnumber those overhead. "I dont think so.

The air operators argue they provide unrivaled access, particularly to the elderly and disabled.

Absolutely exhilarating, a thrilling experience" is how Bailey Wood, a spokesman for the Helicopter Association International, described them.

Sightseeing flights got their start in the 1930s as crews building the massive Hoover Dam on the Arizona-Nevada border asked the helicopter pilots working on the project to give their families flyovers, Wood said.

It took off from there, he said, jokingly adding, Sorry, aviation pun.

The issue hit a tipping point at the Grand Canyon in 1986 when two tour aircraft collided over the national park in Arizona, killing 25 people. Congress acted the next year and a plan was enacted to designate routes and minimum altitude for canyon flights.

Congress passed another round of legislation in 2000 with a goal of setting rules in other national parks. But bureaucratic difficulties and delays stalled compliance.

The Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility and the Hawaii Island Coalition Malama Pono sued, demanding something be done. Historically, some of the nation's busiest spots for tour operators are Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is home to one of the worlds most active volcanoes, and Haleakala National Park.

In 2020, a federal court ordered compliance at 23 national parks, including popular sites such as Glacier in Montana, Arches in Utah and Great Smokey Mountains in Tennessee and North Carolina. That same year, the latest in which data is available, there were 15,624 air tours reported, which was down about 30% because of the pandemic, the park service said.

As of this month, plans or voluntary agreements have been adopted for most of the parks, although not all of them have taken effect. Work is still underway on five, the park service said.

Parks exempted from developing plans include those with few flights and those in Alaska, where small planes are often the only way to get around.

Mostly, the plans have been pretty generous to the industry, allowing them to continue as they have done in the past with some limited air tours around these parks," said Peter Jenkins, senior counsel for Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility.

His group went to court over a plan to allow a combined total of about 2,500 flights over the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and other nearby parks, alleging an inadequate environmental study.

Then came last month's announcement about restrictions over Mount Rushmore and the Badlands.

This isnt a management plan, complained Ray Jilek, owner of Eagle Aviation Inc. and its chief pilot. This is a cease-and-desist plan, as far as Im concerned."

Andrew Busse of Black Hills Helicopter Inc. said his tours already don't fly directly over Mount Rushmore. The park is relatively small, so the monument to the nation's presidents is still visible from outside its boundaries, he said.

The plans are aimed at taking tribal desires into account. But Shawn Bordeaux, a Democratic state lawmaker in South Dakota and a member of the Rosebud Sioux tribe, said he hasn't heard complaints.

"We dont want them flying around trying to watch our sun dances or ceremonies or something," he said. "But as for tourism, I dont see why its an issue."

A similarly strict plan has been proposed for Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico. Bruce Adams, owner of Southwest Safaris, flies a fixed-wing plane with tourists a couple times a week over the area known for the dwellings carved into the soft rock cliffs.

"Changing the route is going to force me to fly over Pueblo tribal lands that I have assiduously avoided doing for 49 years because I know its going to cause noise problems, he said.

Glacier National Park, meanwhile, is phasing out the flights by the end of 2029.

Wood said the process has been broken and rushed and threatens to put some operators out of business.

Litigation is one tool that is definitely under consideration," he said.

The history behind all 63 national parks in the US The history behind all 63 national parks in the US Acadia National Park, Maine National Park of American Samoa, American Samoa Arches National Park, Utah Badlands National Park, South Dakota Big Bend National Park, Texas Biscayne National Park, Florida Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah Canyonlands National Park, Utah Capitol Reef National Park, Utah Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico Channel Islands National Park, California Congaree National Park, South Carolina Crater Lake National Park, Oregon Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada Denali National Park, Alaska Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida Everglades National Park, Florida Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri and Illinois Glacier National Park, Montana Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming Great Basin National Park, Nevada Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas Haleakala National Park, Hawaii Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana Isle Royale National Park, Michigan Joshua Tree National Park, California Katmai National Park, Alaska Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska Kings Canyon National Park, California Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska Lake Clark National Park, Alaska Lassen Volcanic National Park, California Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado Mount Rainier National Park, Washington New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia North Cascades National Park, Washington Olympic National Park, Washington Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona Pinnacles National Park, California Redwood National Park, California Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Saguaro National Park, Arizona Sequoia National Park, California Shenandoah National Park, Virginia Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota Virgin Islands National Park, Virgin Islands Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota White Sands National Park, New Mexico Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming Yosemite National Park, California Zion National Park, Utah
The 10 Republicans who signed an official-looking certificate falsely claiming Donald Trump won the 2020 Wisconsin presidential election have retracted the document, acknowledged Joe Biden won the election and admitted their actions furthered a scheme to illegally overturn the election under a legal settlement announced Wednesday.

As part of the settlement in the civil case with the liberal law firm Law Forward, the 10 Republicans agreed to never serve as presidential electors in any presidential election involving Trump, who is seeking the partys nomination next year. They have also agreed to cooperate with any ongoing or future U.S. Department of Justice investigations related to the 2020 presidential election.

Law Forward said the settlement is the first of its kind in the nation, using civil law to redress the defendants unlawful actions, including by falsely assuming the office of presidential electors for the State of Wisconsin.

The settlement, announced by Law Forward, Georgetown University Law Centers Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection, and the Madison firm Stafford Rosenbaum, was accompanied by a cache of documents including photographs of the electors signing the documents, text messages in which some expressed doubts about signing the documents and other messages revealing how the plan came together.

The slate of Republican electors gathered at the state Capitol on Dec. 14, 2020, to sign documents declaring Trump the winner on the same day Democratic electors cast the states actual Electoral College votes for Joe Biden. Law Forward sued the group last year, alleging the Republicans and two attorneys who advised them broke multiple laws, including impersonating a public official, public nuisance and engaging in conspiracy.

The Elector Defendants took the foregoing action because they were told that it was necessary to preserve their electoral votes in the event a court challenge may later change the outcome of the election in Wisconsin, according to the statement from the 10 Republicans.

The statement affirms that the 10 Democratic electors who cast votes for Biden were the duly elected presidential electors for the State of Wisconsin for the 2020 presidential election.

We oppose any attempt to undermine the publics faith in the ultimate results of the 2020 presidential election, the statement concludes. We hereby withdraw the documents we executed on December 14, 2020, and request that they be disregarded by the public and all entities to which they were submitted.

Documents have underscored efforts by those in Trumps inner circle to circumvent the Electoral College process in several states, including Wisconsin, after the 2020 election, despite recounts and court decisions affirming that Biden defeated Trump in the battleground state by almost 21,000 votes.

Those who signed the false documents in Wisconsin asserting Trump won are: former state GOP chair Andrew Hitt; Robert Spindell, a Republican member of the Wisconsin Elections Commission; 8th Congressional District GOP chair Kelly Ruh; former 1st Congressional District GOP vice chair Carol Brunner; former Dane County Republican Party chair Scott Grabins; 3rd Congressional District GOP chair Bill Feehan; second vice chair of the state GOP Kathy Kiernan; former 6th Congressional District GOP chair Darryl Carlson; former 7th Congressional District GOP vice chair Pam Travis; and Mary Buestrin, former member of the Republican National Committee.

Tricked and misled

The Wisconsin electors were tricked and misled into participating in what became the alternate elector scheme and would have never taken any actions had we known that there were ulterior reasons beyond preserving an ongoing legal strategy, Hitt said in a statement.

Fake elector settlement Under the terms of the settlement, defendants Andrew Hitt, Robert F. Spindell, Jr., Bill Feehan, Kelly Ruh, Carol Brunner, Edward Scott Grabins, Kathy Kiernan, Darryl Carlson, Pam Travis, and Mary Buestrin agreed to transmit the following statement to the same public officials and government offices that receive votes from the Electoral College: On December 14, 2020, in compliance with requests received from the Trump campaign and the Republican Party of Wisconsin, we met at the Wisconsin State Capitol and executed a document titled Certificate of the Votes of the 2020 Electors from Wisconsin. That document stated, in part, that we were the duly elected and qualified Electors for President and Vice President of the United States of America from the State of Wisconsin. The Elector Defendants took the foregoing action because they were told that it was necessary to preserve their electoral votes in the event a court challenge may later change the outcome of the election in Wisconsin. That document was then used as part of an attempt to improperly overturn the 2020 presidential election results. The duly elected presidential electors for the State of Wisconsin for the 2020 presidential election were: Meg Andrietsch, Shelia Stubbs, Ronald Martin, Mandela Barnes, Khary Penebaker, Mary Arnold, Patty Schachtner, Shannon Holsey, Tony Evers, and Benjamin Wikler. We hereby reaffirm that Joseph R. Biden, Jr. won the 2020 presidential election and that we were not the duly elected presidential electors for the State of Wisconsin for the 2020 presidential election. We oppose any attempt to undermine the publics faith in the ultimate results of the 2020 presidential election. We hereby withdraw the documents we executed on December 14, 2020, and request that they be disregarded by the public and all entities to which they were submitted

The lawsuit was initially scheduled to go to trial next September, two months before the 2024 presidential election.

Wisconsin voters have been awaiting accountability for three years, and it is beyond time to hold those who perpetrated this scheme responsible for their actions, Stafford Rosenbaum attorney Jeff Mandell, board president of Law Forward, said in a statement. This settlement agreement provides one piece of that accountability and helps ensure that a similar effort to subvert our democracy will never happen again.

Under the settlement, the 10 Republicans will not have to pay any damages or attorney fees. The lawsuit initially sought more than $2.4 million in damages, including $2,000 fines for the Republicans and their attorneys, and up to $200,000 in punitive damages for each plaintiff.

Law Forward said claims brought against the two attorneys who aided the electors  Trump campaign adviser Kenneth Chesebro and Wisconsin attorney Jim Troupis, who represented Trump in a failed effort to overturn the states 2020 election results  will continue.

I will not be supporting Trump in 2024, Hitt said. We have serious problems facing this country and we need a president who will not repeat 2020 and will focus on tackling those difficult issues.

State Republicans have said the meeting took place on the advice of attorneys and was based on precedent  specifically, when Hawaii electors from both parties convened in public regarding a genuine dispute over the 1960 presidential election in that state.

The meeting occurred after a Nov. 18, 2020, memo from Chesebro detailing the plan to Troupis.

Clandestine meeting

Text messages revealed in the settlement show that the Republican officials were trying to stay out of the public eye and had a four-man security team meet them at the Republican Party of Wisconsin headquarters before they headed to the Capitol to sign the documents on Dec. 14, 2020.

Please keep confidential, Mark Jefferson, executive director of the Republican Party of Wisconsin, says to the group the night before they signed the documents. We are being asked not to draw attention if we can help it.

In another text exchange, Jefferson tells Spindell that he and Hitt are the most recognizable of the fake electors, adding that they might be better off entering the Capitol separately from the rest of the group.

Ruh, one of the signees, said the group was escorted by armed security guards twice to the Capitol because it was locked the first time. She said a Republican staffer let them in the second time.

The documents released as part of the settlement also show reluctance on the part of some officials to sign the fake certificate.

I feel like I have to do it otherwise there will be a target on my back in my own district for the chair, Carlson says after being asked how he feels about signing the documents. Also, it could piss off the (Trump) base.

The cache of documents includes some already revealed to the U.S. House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the Capitol by Trump supporters. In one exchange, Hitt says about the Trump campaigns effort to promote fake electors, These guys are up to no good and its gonna fail miserably.

Feel like a drug dealer

Asked why he signed the documents despite his stated reluctance, Hitt told the Wisconsin State Journal that a longtime attorney for the state Republican Party said if they didnt sign the documents and a court ruled in favor of Trump, Wisconsin would have to forfeit its electoral votes.

Another text shows Hitt and Jefferson discussing where they would sign the documents. Hitt says they should avoid signing them in the Senate parlor to avoid passing the office of former Minority Senate Leader Janet Bewley, a Democrat.

The effort culminated with a plot to pass then-Vice President Mike Pence slates of fake electors as Pence was set to confirm the presidential election results on Jan. 6, 2021.

Another document released along with the settlement shows the text exchange between former Wisconsin Republican Party staffer Alesha Guenther and Hitt as she delivered the paperwork to Washington, D.C.

5 minutes until I make the drop. I feel like a drug dealer, she joked in a Jan. 5, 2021, text message to Hitt.

U.S. Sen. Ron Johnsons chief of staff told Pences aide on Jan. 6, 2021, that the senator needed to pass the vice president documents falsely stating Trump won Wisconsin, text messages released last summer by the House Jan. 6 committee revealed. The texts came as the vice president was set to confirm Biden as the winner of the 2020 election. Pences staff rejected them.

Charges have been filed against fake electors in Michigan and Georgia. Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul has remained tight-lipped about whether charges are forthcoming in Wisconsin or whether an investigation exists at all.

In light of Wednesdays settlement, officials with the Democratic Party of Wisconsin and liberal group A Better Wisconsin Together renewed their call to Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, who reappointed Spindell to another five-year term on the state elections commission in 2021, to remove him from the agency.

LeMahieu did not immediately respond to a request for comment Wednesday.
Rep. Greg Lanting, the former Twin Falls mayor and city councilman who won election to the Idaho Legislature in 2022, will seek a second term next year.

Lanting publicly announced his reelection campaign in an op-ed piece for the Times-News, highlighting the Legislatures success in lowering property taxes and boosting education funding during his first term in Boise but adding, There is still so much to be done.

In his op-ed, which was published on Wednesday morning at Magicvalley.com, Lanting wrote, I found myself disappointed at the level of division in the Idaho government, even within my own party. Too often personal disagreement and political egos prevent good policy. Now is not the time to walk away from the system but rather to help fix it.

Lanting is the first Magic Valley legislator to publicly announce a reelection campaign, and the third Magic Valley candidate to enter the 2024 fray. Alex Caval of Twin Falls and Laurie Lickley of Jerome have declared their Senate candidacy, opposing Sens. Glenneda Zuiderveld, R-Twin Falls, and Ron Taylor, D-Hailey, respectively.

While he also serves on the Business and Transportation & Defense committees, Lanting is especially at home on the Education Committee after a 30-plus career in Magic Valley schools, both as a teacher and principal.

Since education is an issue so close to my heart, I am pleased at the way we were able to increase teacher pay so that we can attract and retain the best educators around. We also successfully fended off attempts to destroy our public education system with shortsighted and unaccountable voucher programs, Lanting wrote in his op-ed.

He continued, As an early and vocal advocate for Idaho Launch, I cannot wait to see the lives of Idahos next youth that will be changed because of our investment into their future. Students in our community will be educated here in Idaho and employed here in Idaho, thanks to the Launch program. I applaud Gov. Brad Little for prioritizing this program, and I will continue to support it.

A Twin Falls County native, Lanting graduated from Filer High School and the College of Southern Idaho, then later the University of Idaho and the College of Idaho. He also served 10 years in the Idaho Air and Army National Guard, an experience that instilled in him that it is a privilege to serve, whether it be your state, nation or city.

The 2024 Idaho Legislature will open Jan. 8 in Boise. All 105 legislative seats are up for election next year, with the primary election on May 21 and the general election on Nov. 5.

Your news on your smartphone Your story lives in the Magic Valley, and our new mobile app is designed to make sure you dont miss breaking news, the latest scores, the weather forecast and more. From easy navigation with the swipe of a finger to personalized content based on your preferences to customized text sizes, the Times-News app is built for you and your life. Dont have the app? Download it today from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Jeromes Lickley announces Senate campaign in District 26 Former Rep. Laurie Lickley will run for Senate in District 26, touting deep Idaho roots and pledging to use problem solving, collaboration, cooperation, listening, and learning for the states future.

Caval announces Senate run against Zuiderveld for District 24 seat Twin Falls City Councilwoman Alex Caval publicly announced her Senate candidacy in an op-ed piece for the Times-News, describing herself as a hard-working, civic-minded leader.

Twin Falls Sen. Zuiderveld stripped of legislative leadership position President Pro Tempore Chuck Winder described Sen. Glenneda Zuidervelds behavior as degrading and disrespectful of  the Senate itself and beneath a manner expected of an elected official.

Picking and choosing: What changed, and what didnt, in Magic Valley elections Election Day in the Magic Valley was a mixed bag  with Twin Falls and Declo among cities voting for change and Burley and Bellevue among those sticking with incumbents.
Steve Kiggins, the newsroom leader at the Times-News for the past year, has been promoted to an executive leadership role in Lee Enterprises.

The Times-News parent company announced Kiggins promotion to director of local news on a seven-person national leadership team overseeing news operations. Kiggins will relocate to Montana, where he will serve as executive editor of The Missoulian and Lees statewide network that includes newsrooms in Billings, Helena, Butte and Hamilton-Ravalli.

Additionally, Kiggins will have oversight of news operations in eight other states  including the Times-News and the Elko Daily Free Press in Nevada.

We have breathed new life into the Times-News over the last year, and Im looking forward to continuing to work with our team to build local journalism in the Magic Valley  just in a different capacity, Kiggins said. Weve attracted smart, motivated journalists to Twin Falls. There are good days ahead.

Managing Editor Mychel Matthews will serve as interim editor during a national search for Kiggins successor.

Im thrilled to announce Steves appointment as a director of local news for Lee Enterprises, said Jason Adrians, Lee Enterprises vice president-local news. Under Steves leadership, the Times-News has made excellent strides in local news coverage, and I have no doubt that Steve will take that community-first mindset and his passion for best-in-class local news coverage into his new role.

Kiggins, who has won national, regional and state reporting awards spanning nearly three decades in journalism, rejoined Lee Enterprises in November 2022 after 4 years as a national news editor at USA TODAY.

As Times-News editor, Kiggins led a newsroom reorganization to realign reporting positions with local priorities across an eight-county region, revived a local editorial board and oversaw the publication of Spanish-translated stories for the first time in the news organizations 100-plus-year history.

Kiggins was elected to the Idaho Press Club Board of Directors in the spring, just months after arriving in the state. He was recognized by the Idaho Library Association with its Special Services to Libraries award for journalistic excellence in support of statewide libraries in October.

Since June, Kiggins also has supported the Casper Star-Tribune in Wyoming, another Lee newsroom, during its search for an editor.

Prior to USA TODAY, Kiggins was executive editor at The Spectrum & Daily News in St. George, Utah. He worked for Lee Enterprises earlier in his career, both in Casper and Corvallis, Oregon.

Kiggins, who was introduced in The Missoulian newsroom Wednesday, will soon move to Montana with his wife, Cassandra. Their only child, Taidyn, graduated from Twin Falls High School this year and is a college freshman.

Close Canyon Ridge guard Bailee Dean runs with the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls small forward Jasmine Morris looks to pass the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Canyon Ridge wing Ava Stokes gets open for a pass on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Canyon Ridge guard Ella Cook and Twin Falls senior Jaycee Jensen fight for possession of the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls senior Halle Egbert goes for a layup on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls small forward Jasmine Morris reaches for a rebound on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls guard Rylee Robbins and Canyon Ridge post Madi Williams fight for possession of the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Canyon Ridge post Michaela Boring shoots the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls small forward Halle Walker watches a free throw on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls students cheer in the bleachers on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls small forward Halle Walker catches a rebound on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls guard Alyssa Okelberry attempts to steal the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Canyon Ridge guard Bailee Dean watches the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls senior Jaycee Jensen listens on the bench on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. PHOTOS: Twin Falls girls basketball vs. Canyon Ridge Twin Falls girls basketball defeated Canyon Ridge on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, with a score, 65-35. Canyon Ridge guard Bailee Dean runs with the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls small forward Jasmine Morris looks to pass the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Canyon Ridge wing Ava Stokes gets open for a pass on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Canyon Ridge guard Ella Cook and Twin Falls senior Jaycee Jensen fight for possession of the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls senior Halle Egbert goes for a layup on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls small forward Jasmine Morris reaches for a rebound on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls guard Rylee Robbins and Canyon Ridge post Madi Williams fight for possession of the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Canyon Ridge post Michaela Boring shoots the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls small forward Halle Walker watches a free throw on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls students cheer in the bleachers on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls small forward Halle Walker catches a rebound on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls guard Alyssa Okelberry attempts to steal the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Canyon Ridge guard Bailee Dean watches the ball on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35. Twin Falls senior Jaycee Jensen listens on the bench on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, during a girls basketball game between Twin Falls and Canyon Ridge at Canyon Ridge High School. The Lady Bruins defeated the Riverhawks, 65-35.
When Raul Labrador was running for attorney general last year, he promised to be a different kind of AG and, boy, has he delivered on that promise. He has done things that nobody could ever have expected an Idaho AG to do.

Labrador certainly made a media splash in June when he hauled off, without warning, and brought suit against his own client, the State Board of Education. He claimed the Board violated Idahos Open Meeting Law when considering the University of Idahos plan to acquire the University of Phoenix. It is universally known in Idaho legal circles that it is highly unethical for a lawyer to sue his or her own client. A district judge agreed and ruled Labrador was disqualified from personally handling the lawsuit. He had to assign another lawyer to pursue the lawsuit, while the State Board had to hire private attorneys to defend the case. Labradors office added additional claims to the suit but the judge dismissed them, leaving only a single claim for a January trial.

Quote In the more than 50 years Ive followed the office, including the eight years I served as AG, Ive never heard of such strange happenings. It is a further sign of dysfunction within the office.

The State Board has consistently argued that Labradors employee, a deputy AG, told the board it could consider the U of I plan in a closed-door session without violating the law. We now learn the astounding fact that Labradors office has asked the judge to allow it to take the deposition of the deputy AG. So, the attorney generals office now wants to put the deputy, who works for the AG, under oath, to ask questions about what she told the board.

In the more than 50 years Ive followed the office, including the eight years I served as AG, Ive never heard of such strange happenings. It is a further sign of dysfunction within the office.

In another situation where Labrador took legal action against several clients and was, as a consequence, disqualified from handling the lawsuit, the state is facing a claim for almost $120,000 in attorney fees. In that case Labrador, without prior warning, served Civil Investigative Demands (CIDs) against Dave Jeppeson, the director of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW) and two of his staffers for their handling of a child care grant program. The CIDs called for the production of a mountain of documents. Jeppeson says he would have handed the documents over if Labrador had simply picked up the phone and asked for them.

Litigation ensued and the IDHW employees had to hire private attorneys to defend against the CIDs. After Labrador was removed from the lawsuit because of his conflict of interest, the AGs new attorney withdrew the CIDs. Now, the IDHWs attorneys are seeking an award of $119,112.50 for standing up against Labradors meritless claims.

Although Jeppeson was able to deflate the claims against him in court, Labradors actions resulted in an agency controlled by the Legislature questioning IDHWs handling of the grant program. Jeppeson will likely be exonerated in a different lawsuit involving similar CIDs issued by Labrador to a large number of the child care grant recipients. That case is currently pending before the Idaho Supreme Court.

Labrador has not confined his legal hijinks to the State of Idaho. The most recent head-scratching legal action initiated by Labrador involves a California statute making special education funds available to private schools, except for nonsectarian schools. Our AG is asking a federal court in California to invalidate the statute. The case will have no application in Idaho.

In fact, Idahos Constitution has strong prohibitions against state funds being used for religious institutions or sectarian teaching. With all of his questionable legal exploits at home in Idaho, one wonders why his office should squander time and resources on fruitless out-of-state adventures.

In his first year as AG, Labrador has managed to raise serious concerns among Gov. Brad Littles executive agencies as to whether they can trust the lawyer who is required by state law to represent them. He seems intent on challenging his statutory clients, while using his employees and resources to further his personal agenda. It is high time for him to buckle down and start doing the job that he was elected to do.
One year ago, I was elected to represent District 25 in the Idaho Legislature. I took with me over three decades of experience in the classroom and local schools, along with a deep love of this nation and our Constitution.

We labored from sun up to sun down over difficult issues, and even after the session concluded, I have found myself far busier than I would have expected, prepared for what will prove to be another lively session. The hard work was not wasted; I am proud of what I was able to accomplish in my first term in the Legislature.

We passed historic tax cuts that will alleviate the pain that my constituents were feeling when the property tax bill would show up. We were able to lower property taxes without robbing our schools or our rainy day fund.

Since education is an issue so close to my heart, I am pleased at the way we were able to increase teacher pay so that we can attract and retain the best educators around. We also successfully fended off attempts to destroy our public education system with shortsighted and unaccountable voucher programs.

As an early and vocal advocate for Idaho Launch, I cannot wait to see the lives of Idahos next youth that will be changed because of our investment into their future. Students in our community will be educated here in Idaho and employed here in Idaho, thanks to the Launch program. I applaud Gov. Brad Little for prioritizing this program, and I will continue to support it.

There is still so much to be done. Thats why I am excited to announce that I will be running for reelection. I found myself disappointed at the level of division in the Idaho government, even within my own party. Too often personal disagreement and political egos prevent good policy. Now is not the time to walk away from the system but rather to help fix it.

As this area continues to grow, the problems get more complex. We must crack down on drug trafficking and harsher sentences on fentanyl dealers need to be discussed. We also must prioritize agriculture and water issues.

Too many of us while serving in Boise think we have all the answers. As a former Twin Falls mayor and city councilman, I believe in empowering local government. Many decisions ought to be made at the level that is closest to the people. If reelected I will continue to advocate for small, fiscal conservative government and ensure our locally elected leaders have a seat at the table.

My time in the Armed Forces taught me that it is a privilege to serve, whether it be your state, nation, or city. While it has been an honor to represent you and your interests in the Idaho Capitol, I am asking for your support to send me back to finish the job that we started.
NATIONAL Security Adviser Eduardo Ano on Wednesday welcomed exploratory talks with the communist rebels but said these should be free of any preconditions.

In particular, he described as premature demands issued by the communists shortly after the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) agreed to resume peace negotiations.

The demands include:

The release of NDFP peace consultants, allowing them to take part in the discussions and negotiations.

The rescinding of the terrorist tag of the NDFP, Luis Jalandoni, the Communist Party of the Philippines, the New Peoples Army, and other personnel of the NDFP.

The dismantling of the National Task Force (NTF)-ELCAC, the repeal of the Anti-Terror Law, and the withdrawal of AFP soldiers conducting localized peace negotiations and community support.

The release of more than 800 political prisoners

All of these demands from the CPP-NPA are premature, Ano said in a statement read by NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya during a press conference of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

Ano said the lifting of the terrorist tag needs to follow a process spelled out under the Anti-Terrorism Act and should be a result of the signing of a final peace agreement.

In a statement, Ano said, The NTF-ELCAC will sustain gains and further advance the delivery of basic services, access to livelihood opportunities and complete the infrastructure development projects in isolated, conflict-affected communities.

He said the NTF-ELCAC will not relent in defending citizens from the threat of communist terrorist groups by maintaining peace and order.

He emphasized it is of utmost importance to secure the life, liberty, and properties of all Filipinos through focused military operations and law enforcement to prevent lawlessness and bloodshed.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines and PNP will continue with its campaign to defeat all armed threats to the country, including the NPA. They will continue to sustain their operational tempo to further weaken the NPAs capacity to sow violence in their last remaining influenced communities, Ano said.

He added that the task force will continue to prioritize the dismantling of the 20 remaining weakened guerrilla fronts.

We cannot and will not stop pursuing peace. We do not seek to stamp out our fellow Filipinos who have been duped into committing terrorist acts by false ideology, but rather aim to lift them up to work with them hand in hand as brothers and sisters in nation building, said Ano.

Nevertheless, Ano said the NTF ELCAC will work for the end of the communist armed struggle, mindful that the rebels are still Filipinos entitled to amnesty.

He added that, ultimately the overarching goal is true reconciliation where former rebels successfully rejoin mainstream society and become productive citizens of the country.

In other developments:

The Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity On Wednesday said that the Presidents exploratory dialogue with communist groups is a new peace process and not a resumption of the previous dialogues. In an interview on government TV, Presidential Assistant Wilben Mayor said there are no preconditions and no ceasefire between the government and rebel groups. This conversation is new, unconditional. We are not referring to anything previously discussed, he said in Filipino. He added that anti-insurgency operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the maintenance of peace and order by the Philippine National Police would still continue amid the exploratory talks.

Senator Ronald dela Rosa defended Vice President Sara Duterte, saying she was not contradicting President Marcos when she spoke out against his peace initiative. Shes just appealing. Its just normal that they have conflicting views. Knowing the VP has been a resident of Mindanao for so long She indeed felt the problem of insurgency. She knows what these people have been doing, Dela Rosa said. He added that the communist rebels have been strengthening their forces while peace talks were ongoing.
Sanaa, Yemen  A Yemeni human rights activist has been sentenced to death on spying charges by a court in Sanaa, the countrys Huthi-held capital, her lawyer told AFP on Tuesday.

Fatima Saleh Al-Arwali was detained by the Iran-backed rebel group in 2022 in an arrest probably linked to her human rights work, the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention said earlier this year.

The 34-year-old was sentenced to death by a lower court, her lawyer Abdel Majid Sabra said, adding that the ruling remained open to appeal.

According to a court document seen by AFP, Arwali was accused of providing information to the United Arab Emirates, a member of the military coalition that intervened in Yemen in 2015 in support of government forces against the Huthis.

The rebels took control of Sanaa in 2014 before seizing vast swathes of territory where they have imposed tough restrictions on women.

The war between the two sides has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and plunged the Arabian Peninsulas poorest country into deep humanitarian crisis.

In August, in a letter addressed to authorities in Sanaa, the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention voiced fears about systematic violations of womens and girls rights by the Huthis.

The UN experts said they had received detailed information about Arwalis arrest, a detention that was tantamount to enforced disappearance, and the conditions of her incarceration.

They said Arwali openly defended human and womens rights on social media and ran a non-governmental human rights training organisation.
On Saturday, Nov. 18, deputies with the McDowell County Sheriffs Office spoke with a male victim who stated his truck had been stolen. An investigation led deputies to the stolen truck at the camper of James William Effler, 46. A subsequent search of the camper turned up a shotgun. Effler is a convicted felon and is prohibited by N.C. Law from possessing a firearm, according to a news release.
His smile is still writ large, painted on several buildings in central Johannesburg. South Africa marks the tenth anniversary of Nelson Mandelas death on Tuesday December 5, between nostalgia for his integrity and disappointment at what followed.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa did not plan to speak. But at the end of the day, Pakistans Malala Yousafzai, winner of the 2014 Nobel Prize for her fight for education, was chosen to deliver the anniversary speech in a large Johannesburg theater.

Its a bittersweet anniversary for South Africa. On the one hand, the memory of Madiba, the man who brought them democracy, the former Robben Island convict who became the countrys first black President after defeating the racist apartheid regime, a world star who died at the age of 95 on December 5, 2013,.

And on the other hand, in a mirror image, the current situation of the country, still ruled by its ANC party but plagued by corruption and power cuts, is now the most unequal in the world, according to the World Bank. Nelson Mandela died surrounded by his loved ones after a long twilight and months of agony and anguish for South Africans and his admirers around the world, during which his entourage was content to repeat that the wise old man was in critical but stable condition.
On Tuesday December 5, the Sierra Leonean Government announced the arrest of one of the main organizers of what it described as an attempted coup detat on November 26 and of two alleged accomplices. These arrests bring the total number of people arrested to 60, the vast majority of them military personnel.

One of the organizers of the failed coup attempt on November 26, Amadu Koita, who was at the top of the wanted list, was arrested yesterday (Monday) at 11:30 pm (local and GMT), Information Minister Chernor Bah told a press conference in Freetown.

Amadu Koita, a former soldier and bodyguard of Sierra Leones ex-president Ernest Bai Koroma, was widely followed on social networks, where he criticized the government of President Julius Maada Bio. He was sheltered by a policewoman and a policeman, who were also arrested, the spokesman said.

In the early hours of November 26, men attacked a military armory, two other barracks, two prisons, and two police stations, confronting security forces with weapons drawn.

The fighting left 21 people dead, including 14 soldiers, a policeman, a prison guard, a security guard, a woman, and three assailants, according to the Minister of Information.

Since 2020, the West African region has been marked by an increasing number of coups detat in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea. On Saturday evening, Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo also denounced an attempted coup following clashes between the Army and elements of the security forces on Thursday November 30 night.
Three weeks after the rejection of a previous project, London and Kigali signed a new treaty in Rwanda on Tuesday December 5, aimed at resurrecting a controversial agreement to deport migrants who have arrived in the UK illegally.

The British government is trying to salvage this flagship measure of its policy against illegal immigration after the British Supreme Court in mid-November confirmed that its project was illegal as it stood. The new agreement was signed in Kigali, the Rwandan capital, by British Home Secretary James Cleverly and Rwandan Foreign Minister Vincent Biruta.

We have pursued this partnership with the UK because we believe we have a role to play in this illegal immigration crisis, Vincent Biruta assured a press conference when James Cleverly declared he had immense admiration for the Rwandan government, which has received a great deal of criticism..

The new treaty will address the concerns of the Supreme Court, notably by guaranteeing that Rwanda will not expel to another country persons transferred within the framework of the partnership, as earlier assured in a press release from the Ministry of the Interior in response to one of the main concerns of the magistrates.

Following the Supreme Courts decision, James Cleverly gave assurances that a legally binding treaty would be signed with Kigali to guarantee the fate of migrants expelled from the UK. Once signed, this text will have to be ratified by the British and Rwandan parliaments. Before signing the agreement, the new Home Office boss visited the site of the Rwandan genocide memorial.

It is clear that Rwanda is a safe country, and we are working at a steady pace to take this partnership forward to stop the boats and save lives, assured James Cleverly, quoted in the statement.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Anti-abortion organizations are pushing state lawmakers to promote a controversial and unproven "abortion reversal" treatmentflouting the objections of medical professionals who point out it is not supported by science.

In the past several years, Republican lawmakers in at least 14 states have passed laws requiring health care providers to give patients information about abortion reversal. Kansas became the 15th state this year. Meanwhile, Democratic-controlled Colorado this year moved in the opposite direction, becoming the first state to effectively ban abortion reversal treatment, designating it as medical misconduct.

The treatment involves prescribing the hormone progesterone, used for decades to help prevent miscarriage, to stem the effects of mifepristone, one of the drugs used for medication abortions. Medication abortion already accounts for a growing majority of U.S. abortions, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in recent years has lifted restrictions on it, allowing more patients to get a prescription via telehealth and receive the pills in the mail.

Medication abortion involves a combination of two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, taken within one to two days of each other to terminate a pregnancy.

Proponents of abortion reversal say that a high dose of progesterone, taken within 72 hours of taking mifepristone and before the misoprostol pill, can "reverse" the effects of the mifepristone and stop the abortion process.

Abortion reversal supporters say that women who begin medication abortion and then immediately change their minds should have access to the treatment so they can try to save their pregnancies.

"Autonomy dictates that the patient ultimately decides the intended outcome of her pregnancy even if she's already taken an abortion drug," said Christa Brown, a registered nurse and the senior director of medical impact for Heartbeat International, a national anti-abortion rights organization that promotes abortion reversal, in a statement to Stateline.

"As the abortion pill is now the leading form of abortion, some women are experiencing immediate regret and looking for a way to reverse the effects," she wrote. "The abortion pill reversal process gives her a chance to save her baby's life."

But critics say not enough research has been done to determine the safety of the practice. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists calls abortion reversal "unproven and unethical" and says claims about it "are not based on science and do not meet clinical standards."

The American Medical Association sued North Dakota in 2019 over its law requiring providers to tell patients that abortions can be reversed, saying it would compel physicians to "convey ideological, government-mandated messages that are false or misleading." The AMA dropped the case this fall because North Dakota has since passed an even stricter law in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court's Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision in 2022 that paved the way for states to ban or restrict abortion.

Colorado's new law is now tied up in the courts after a Catholic health clinic sued to block it and a federal judge ruled it likely violates the U.S. Constitution's guarantee of religious freedom.

Colorado Democratic state Rep. Karen McCormick, one of the sponsors of the measure, said she hopes it makes her state "a leader for the rest of the nation on calling this practice out, because it's hurting people." The law also makes it a deceptive trade practice to create advertisements suggesting a provider offers abortion services or referrals if they do not.

Kansas lawmakers passed a law this year requiring providers to tell patients about abortion reversal, while Massachusetts and North Carolina legislators introduced similar bills, which have not made it out of committee.

"When you put something like this into law, it says that this treatment is real and people really seek it," said Dr. Mitchell Creinin, an OB-GYN and professor at UC Davis Health, at the University of California, who led one of the few studies on abortion reversal.

"People do change their mind [about abortion], but it's incredibly rare. If they push this lie long enough and hard enough, people will think it's the truth," Creinin said. "And that if women are changing their minds all the time, maybe they shouldn't have the right to make this decision."

Changing minds

Heartbeat International serves as an umbrella for a network of pregnancy resource centers, which typically counsel pregnant women against abortions. The group has been promoting abortion reversal through its Abortion Pill Rescue Network, which includes a website and a helpline that offer referrals for abortion reversal services. Brown said the network includes more than 1,400 medical professionals, clinics and hospitals in multiple countries.

The organization's 2023 report claims a 51% increase in the number of times women inquired about abortion reversal and received a prescription for the treatment from 2020 to 2022.

"Heartbeat International supports state informed consent bills that provide reversal information to women, and we reject the idea that this safe and effective treatment should be denied to women," Brown wrote in her statement.

There's no publicly available data on how often people don't complete medication abortion because they change their minds. A study published in 2016 in the journal Contraception found that the level of uncertainty in decisions about abortion is comparable to or lower than decisions about other health care.

Scientific data on abortion reversal remains scant and incomplete, despite the growing number of state policies surrounding it. Researchers wrote in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2018 that laws promoting abortion reversal "essentially encourage women to participate in an unmonitored science experiment."

A 2018 case studyby an anti-abortion advocateof 754 women who underwent abortion reversal found that high doses of progesterone "reversed" the effects of mifepristone and allowed pregnancies to continue in about 64% of cases. A case series published in 2012, by the same author, of six women who took progesterone after taking mifepristone found that four of the women carried their pregnancies to term.

Both studies were led by Dr. George Delgado, a family physician who helped pioneer abortion reversal and founded the Abortion Pill Rescue Network. His studies are often cited by abortion reversal proponents to support claims of the treatment's safety and efficacy. Delgado is one of the anti-abortion doctors suing the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to rescind its approval of medication abortion, claiming that mifepristone is dangerous.

Physicians and medical groups have raised concerns about the way Delgado's studies were conducted, without control groups or supervision by an institutional review board.

In 2020, the only randomized, placebo-controlled and board-approved study of abortion reversal treatment ended early over safety concerns.

Creinin, the UC Davis Health researcher, led the study. He'd initially planned to enroll 40 patients but halted the study after three of the first 10 patients experienced severe hemorrhaging, requiring ambulance transport to a hospital. One of the hemorrhaging patients had been given progesterone, while the other two had received placebos. Creinin concluded that he couldn't continue the study because women who take mifepristone without following it with misoprostol "may be at high risk of significant hemorrhage."

"These were safety signals that meant I couldn't put this population through that risk," Creinin said. "We've got to figure out some other way to really study it, if we believe there is some value to this claim."

He thinks it's unethical for providers to offer abortion reversal treatment, because there's not enough science-backed data to show it's safe or effective.

"I'm not a lawyer or a legislator," said Creinin, who has spent 30 years in clinical contraceptive research. "When you look at the American Medical Association's code of ethics, [abortion reversal] falls outside of ethical medical care. And the FDA says off-label treatments must have ample research to validate safety and efficacy. This doesn't meet FDA criteria for off-label use."

Brown, of Heartbeat International, wrote that medical associations such as the American Medical Association are politically and ideologically motivated and have chosen to ignore the scientific evidence that favors abortion reversal. She wrote that it's unethical to withhold information and access to the treatment from women who request it.

"Abortion pill reversal is supported by both scientific evidence and the lived experience of women who are holding their babies in their arms today after starting a chemical abortion and experiencing a successful reversal," she wrote in her statement.

Legislatures and courts

Last year, Kansas voters surprised the nation by overwhelmingly voting against a constitutional amendment that would have stripped Kansans of their abortion rights.

But earlier this year the Republican-controlled legislature passed a law requiring abortion providers to tell patients about abortion reversal, then overrode Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly's veto. Abortion providers sued, and in October a Kansas judge temporarily blocked the law, saying it may violate providers' right to free speech.

Massachusetts legislators earlier this year proposed a similar bill, still in committee, which would require providers to not only tell patients about abortion reversal but also direct them to Heartbeat International's website.

Colorado state Sen. Janice Marchman, a first-term Democrat who co-sponsored the Colorado law that designates abortion reversal as medical misconduct, said she thinks the increased promotion of abortion reversal from anti-abortion organizationsand, subsequently, conservative lawmakersis due in part to abortion increasingly happening at home, with medication, rather than in clinics where anti-abortion activists can try to intercept people considering abortion.

Colorado state Rep. Scott Bottoms, a first-term Republican who introduced a bill this year to require Colorado providers to provide state-prepared information about abortion reversal, alluded to the sidewalk interceptions when he introduced his legislation during a House committee meeting in February:

"Many abortion providers are utilizing telehealth virtual technology to prescribe the two-drug medication abortion regimen, which means we can't even reach these women when they enter or leave abortion clinics," he said. The bill died in committee.

In September, California sued two anti-abortion organizations for promoting abortion pill reversal. California Attorney General Rob Bonta, a Democrat, accused Heartbeat International and a chain of pregnancy resource centers of using fraudulent and misleading claims to advertise abortion pill reversal.

Bonta said in a statement that Heartbeat International and the centers "took advantage of pregnant patients at a deeply vulnerable time in their lives, using false and misleading claims to lure them in and mislead them about a potentially risky procedure."

Marchman said she toured an anti-abortion pregnancy resource center and spoke to physicians, nurses and abortion rights groups before co-sponsoring the Colorado law designating abortion reversal as medical misconduct. She said she supports resource centers that are clear and transparent about the services they provide.

But she thinks the law was needed to protect consumers from deceptive advertising and from treatments that aren't supported by science or the larger medical community.

"Those two issues made it clear we had to do something," she said. "It's model legislation. We knew [the law] would be challenged in court. We did what we could to provide very clear legislative intent."

2023 States Newsroom. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Chest scans showing lung tumors in a patient with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer prior to and after receiving dupilumab with conventional immunotherapy. Credit: LaMarche et al., Nature.

Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have identified an allergy pathway that, when blocked, unleashes antitumor immunity in mouse models of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

And in an early parallel study in humans, combining immunotherapy with dupilumaban Interleukin-4 (IL-4) receptor-blocking antibody widely used for treating allergies and asthmaboosted patients' immune systems, with one out of the six experiencing significant tumor reduction.

The findings are described in a paper, titled "An IL-4 signaling axis in bone marrow drives pro-tumorigenic myelopoiesis," in the December 6 issue of Nature .

"Immunotherapy using checkpoint blockade has revolutionized treatment for non-small cell lung cancer, the most common form of lung cancer, but currently only about a third of patients respond to it alone, and in most patients, the benefit is temporary," says senior study author Miriam Merad, MD, Ph.D., Director of the Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute and Chair of the Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

"A big focus of our program TARGET is to use single cell technology and artificial intelligence to identify molecular immune programs that can dampen tumor immune response to checkpoint blockade."

Also known as a PD1 inhibitor, checkpoint blockade is a type of cancer immunotherapy that can unleash the cancer-killing activity of T cells.

"Using single cell technologies, we discovered that the immune cells infiltrating lung cancers, as well as other cancers we studied, exhibited characteristics of a 'type 2' immune response, which is commonly associated with allergic conditions like eczema and asthma," says first study author Nelson LaMarche, Ph.D., a postdoctoral research fellow in the lab of Dr. Merad.

"These results led us to explore whether we could repurpose a medication typically used for allergic conditions to 'rescue' or enhance tumor response to checkpoint blockade," says Thomas Marron, MD, Ph.D., Director of the Early Phase Trial Unit at Mount Sinai's Tisch Cancer Center, and co-senior author of the study.

"Strikingly, we found that IL-4 blockade enhanced lung cancer response to checkpoint blockade in mice and in six lung cancer patients with treatment-resistant disease. In fact, one patient whose lung cancer was growing despite checkpoint blockade had nearly all their cancer disappear after receiving just three doses of the allergy medication, and his cancer remains controlled today, over 17 months later."

The researchers are encouraged by the initial results but emphasize the need for larger clinical trials to validate the drug's efficacy in treating NSCLC.

Beyond the clinical trial findings reported in the current Nature paper, the investigators have now expanded the clinical trial, adding dupilumab to checkpoint blockade for a larger group of lung cancer patients, and Dr. Marron recently received a grant from the Cancer Research Institute to study the effects in early-stage lung cancer as well.

Through these trials, they are searching for biomarkers that can predict which cancer patients might benefit from dupilumab treatment and which may not.

"In our relentless pursuit of progress, the Cancer Research Institute (CRI) proudly supports the visionary team at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Their findings validate our commitment to funding research across the entire discovery continuum, from the lab to clinical implementation, driven by cutting-edge technology and data," says Jill O'Donnell-Tormey, Ph.D., CEO and director of scientific affairs at CRI.

"We're eager to witness our support delivering new hope by uncovering pathways to enhance checkpoint blockade responses. We champion this discovery and take pride in being part of its journey from lab to clinic, reinforcing our commitment to transforming lives."

More information: Miriam Merad, An IL-4 signalling axis in bone marrow drives pro-tumorigenic myelopoiesis, Nature (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06797-9. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06797-9 Journal information: Nature
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

In patients affected by myelodysplastic neoplasms, the body does not produce enough functional blood cells. Patients suffer from anemiaa lack of red blood cells and hemoglobinwhich can progress to acute leukemia. Imetelstat, a new agent beyond the current standard of care, may help to avoid blood transfusions, which can be a burden for MDS patients, especially over a long period of time.

This effect was demonstrated in a clinical trial at 118 sites in 17 countries led by Professor Uwe Platzbecker from Leipzig University and the University of Leipzig Medical Center, in collaboration with an international research team. The results have been published in the journal The Lancet.

Patients with myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) suffer from a disruption in the healthy maturation of blood cells in their bone marrow. This can lead to anemia, infections and an increased risk of bleeding. Patients who fall into the lower-risk category of MDS are not initially in an acutely life-threatening situation, but often suffer from severe anemia.

This is caused by a lack of mature and functional red blood cells and is manifested primarily by reduced performance, extreme fatigue and exhaustion, which severely limits the quality of life of those affected. This type of anemia can often only be adequately treated with regular blood transfusions, which can be very stressful for patients.

In a recent international study, the drug imetelstat helped MDS patients achieve independence from red blood cell transfusions for around one year.

"Imetelstat offers a novel mechanism of action for the treatment of patients who fall into the lower-risk category of MDS and who do not respond to standard treatment with epoetin alfa," says study leader Professor Uwe Platzbecker, Director of the Department for Hematology, Cell Therapy, Hemostaseology and Infectious Diseases at the University of Leipzig Medical Center.

The drug studiedimetelstatis a telomerase inhibitor. Telomerase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in cell agingit continually renews the protective caps at the ends of the chromosomes, an important function for healthy cells. However, cancer cells divide much more frequently than healthy cells and telomerase delays the death of malignant cells.

Telomerase inhibitors actively block telomerase and therefore have the potential to limit the proliferation of malignant cells and eliminate them more efficiently. Imetelstat is the first agent in this class of drugs to be used in MDS.

Forty percent of patients treated with imetelstat responded to the new therapy, compared to fifteen percent in the placebo group. There was more neutropenia, a reduction in white blood cells, and thrombocytopenia, a reduction in blood platelets, in the imetelstat group than in the placebo group. However, these side effects were manageable and reversible.

"Once approved, imetelstat will add another option to the established therapies for treating anemia, one of the main symptoms of MDS. This will help to avoid or delay blood transfusions, which are very stressful for patients," says Professor Platzbecker, who has been conducting clinical research into myelodysplastic neoplasms for more than 20 years.

Approval for the use of imetelstat in MDS is being sought from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and imetelstat is expected to be available for treatment in the course of 2024. IMerge, a randomized phase 3 trial, was conducted at a total of 118 sites in 17 countries, including university hospitals, cancer centers and outpatient clinics. The study is sponsored by the pharmaceutical company Geron Corporation.

More information: Uwe Platzbecker et al, Imetelstat in patients with lower-risk myelodysplastic syndromes who have relapsed or are refractory to erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (IMerge): a multinational, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial, The Lancet (2023). DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(23)01724-5 Journal information: The Lancet
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Credit: Chokniti Khongchum from Pexels

Research from the University of Queensland, supported closely by experts at the University of Adelaide, has shown that people using antipsychotic drug clozapine may not need regular blood monitoring after two years.

Clozapine is used to treat schizophrenia when other antipsychotic medicines either have not worked or have caused severe side effects, and these findings could improve access to the drug and outcomes for patients.

"Generally prescribed for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, clozapine can interfere with the production of neutrophils, a kind of white blood cell, leaving people dangerously vulnerable to infection in the first month or so after starting the drug," said Dr. Korinne Northwood, from UQ's Faculty of Medicine.

People taking clozapine are currently required to have weekly blood tests for the first 18 weeks, then monthly tests for as long as they are on the medication.

In this study, which analyzed historical data from 26,630 people taking clozapine across Australia and New Zealand, researchers found 313 in the cohort who had to stop taking the antipsychotic because of seriously low neutrophil levels.

The overwhelming majority of those incidences were seen within the first 18 weeks of a patient taking the drug.

"We found that once people had taken clozapine for two years, the rate of someone experiencing seriously low neutrophils was just 0.001 percent per week," Dr. Northwood said.

Professor Dan Siskind, from UQ's Faculty of Medicine, explained that the drug effectively reduced hospitalizations and mortality for a third of people with schizophrenia who are treatment-resistant.

"Clozapine is a necessary, lifesaving medication for many people, but the weekly and then monthly blood testing which is currently mandated presents a burden to consumers," he said.

Professor Siskind says clozapine is under-prescribed globally, possibly due in part to fear among clinicians of the risks and the burden of lifelong monitoring on patients.

"We hope this study will provide the basis for a change in practice, making clozapine more accessible to those who need it and improving the lives of people on the drug," he said.

The University of Adelaide worked closely with UQ and in partnership with pharmaceutical company Viatris to develop the analysis protocol and secure access to large-scale data.

Associate Professor Scott Clark, head of the University of Adelaide's Discipline of Psychiatry, described the study's dataset as internationally unique.

"It represents one of the largest longitudinal analyses of neutropenia in clozapine treatment," he said.

"The analysis plan is novel in that we separated the low- and high-risk cases of neutropenia to identify that high risk was negligible after two years. This is critical for determining safety."

Associate Professor Clark hopes to dig further into the dataset to assess other risks associated with clozapine use.

"We will focus next on the timing and rates of clozapine-associated myocarditis based on three of our own recent papers suggesting risk is elevated in South Australia," he said.

"Due to the sensitivity of current monitoring protocols the rates of serious myocarditis may also be overreported, but recent evidence also suggests personalized titration may reduce risk."

The findings are published in The Lancet Psychiatry journal.

More information: Korinne Northwood et al, Evaluating the epidemiology of clozapine-associated neutropenia among people on clozapine across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand: a retrospective cohort study, The Lancet Psychiatry (2023). DOI: 10.1016/S2215-0366(23)00343-7 Journal information: The Lancet Psychiatry
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Personalized colorectal cancer (CRC) screening based on individual life expectancy may increase the value of CRC screening programs, according to a study published online Oct. 27 in the American Journal of Gastroenterology.

Po-Hong Liu, M.D., from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, and colleagues examined receipt of past-year CRC screening according to predicted 10-year mortality risk among 25,888 community-dwelling, older adults (ages 65 to 84 years) who were not up-to-date with screening.

The researchers found that the prevalence of past-year CRC screening was 39.5, 40.6, 38.7, 36.4, and 35.4 percent from the lowest to highest quintile of 10-year mortality risk. There were no significant differences observed in the odds of CRC screening between adults in the lowest versus highest quintile (adjusted odds ratio, 1.05; 95 percent confidence interval, 0.93 to 1.20).

More than one-quarter (27.9 percent) of past-year CRC screening occurred in adults with life expectancy <10 years. Furthermore, at the time of screening, more than half of adults aged 75 to 84 years (50.7 percent) had 10-year mortality risk 50 percent.

"An age-based approach to CRC screening results in underscreening of older, healthier adults and overscreening of younger adults with chronic conditions," the authors write.

One author disclosed ties to Exact Sciences, Universal Dx, Roche, and Freenome.

More information: Po-Hong Liu et al, Colorectal Cancer Screening Receipt Does Not Differ by 10-Year Mortality Risk Among Older Adults, American Journal of Gastroenterology (2023). DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000002536 Journal information: American Journal of Gastroenterology

Copyright  2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
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A Culex tarsalis mosquito is shown at the Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District on Aug. 28, 2023, in Salt Lake City. Mosquitoes can carry viruses including dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya and Zika. Dengue fever is on the rise in Mali, where officials are reporting new infections and deaths from the virus this week. Malis director general of health and public hygiene, Dr. Cheick Amadou Tidiane Traore, told The Associated Press in an interview Wednesday Dec. 6, 2023 that his department had counted 21 deaths and 600 cases of the virus as of Monday. Credit: AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, File

Authorities say dengue fever is on the rise in Mali, posing a new threat to the West African nation struggling with extremist attacks and political turbulence.

The director general of health and public hygiene, Dr. Cheick Amadou Tidiane Traore, told The Associated Press in an interview Wednesday that his department had counted 21 deaths and 600 cases of the disease as of Monday.

Dengue is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes that mostly causes flu-like illness. In severe cases, it can cause joint pain, swollen glands, bleeding and death. There is no specific treatment, but two vaccines have been recommended by the World Health Organization for countries that suffer regular outbreaks.

Mali's government has not officially released any figures on the disease to the public, nor has it announced whether it has requested aid from the WHO.

With the country in political transition and facing the threat of fighters linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group, a new epidemic of dengue fever risks worsening the humanitarian situation especially among the large population of displaced people.

"Dengue fever is also present in Burkina Faso and Senegal, and we need to raise public awareness," Traore said.

The virus typically emerges in more tropical environments but was first detected in comparatively arid Mali in 2008. Reports of the virus reemerged in 2017 and 2019. There is little long-term data on its prevalence.

In August, the government of Chad reported the country's first-ever outbreak of dengue, with dozens of confirmed cases in the nation that, like Mali, is located in the vast Sahel region south of the Sahara desert.

Elsewhere, the WHO has reported record cases of dengue this year in Bangladesh and the Americas, which have seen more than 300,000 cases and 4 million infections respectively.

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Experimental design overview. a Two independent sgRNAs and associated HDR variant libraries are designed at the 5 and 3 end of each exon. b The sgRNA, together with the HDR template library are transfected into LIG4-KO Cas9-expressing HAP1 cells. HDR utilizes the library as a template for repair of the sgRNA-directed double-stranded DNA cut, incorporating a DDX3X variant of interest. Damaging DDX3X variants will reduce cell viability or proliferation. Variant abundance was assessed at five timepoints. Functional missense (purple) and synonymous variants (Syn, blue) remain abundant, while loss-of-function variants (LOF, red), and damaging missense (yellow) variants are depleted. Credit: Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43041-4

Researchers now understand the functional impact of thousands of genetic changes within the DDX3X gene. This could lead to enhanced diagnosis and treatment of various neurodevelopmental disorders and cancers.

Their new tool outperforms rivals in determining the genetic basis of neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer, identifying harmful mutations at scale, previously too complex to interpret. It promises new avenues for diagnosis and treatment.

Researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute and their collaborators at the University of Cambridge investigated and validated the functional impact of more than 12,000 genetic changes within the DDX3X gene. They found around a quarter of the genetic changes within DDX3X negatively affect its function, revealing the importance of 90% of previously unexplained genetic changes' impact on health.

Comparing this finding with patient data, the researchers confirm this loss of DDX3X function is a significant contributor to neurodevelopmental disorders and is a key player in cancer development.

The findings, published today (6 December) in Nature Communications, shed light on previously inscrutable aspects of the human genetic code, helping provide valuable insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders and cancers. The work paves the way for new early detection methods and treatments.

It is hoped the new technique can be broadly applied to understand how changes in many other genes are relevant for neurodevelopmental disorders.

The DDX3X gene has long been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly in women, and certain forms of cancer. These disorders are typically associated with intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, and often features such as seizures, movement disorders, and behavioral problems.

Diagnosis is highly challenging, especially in young children with unclear symptoms or unborn babies, leading to misdiagnoses of other conditions like autism. Detecting these neurodevelopmental disorders early through genetic screening can greatly enhance treatment effectiveness and improve quality of life for individuals affected, but until now there has been limited understanding of which harmful genetic changes to look out for.

In this new study, scientists set out to uncover the impact of all possible genetic changes within the DDX3X gene on protein function and health, including neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer.

Unlike computer-based predictive tools, the team integrated real experimentation to test thousands of these genetic changes by artificially altering the genetic code of human cells grown in a dish, in a process known as "saturation genome editing." To understand the effects of having these genetic alterations, they compared the experimental data with health data from the UK Biobank cohort.

The team identified that 3,432 of the 12,776 different genetic changes had a negative impact on the protein's function. Using the technique, they were able to shed light on the significance of up to 93% of genetic changes, for which the impact on health was previously unknown. They were able to achieve an accuracy rate of at least 97% in pinpointing DDX3X genetic changes related to neurodevelopmental disorders.

Researchers also found that genetic changes seen in cancer prevent the DDX3X protein from working properly, carrying implications for the development of new cancer treatments targeting the gene.

Together, these findings advance the understanding of mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer. They provide clinicians with valuable insights into the potential impact of genetic changes in DDX3X on a child's health, aiding in earlier diagnosis.

"In the context of genetic conditions, even minor changes in the genetic code can have profound implications for a child's development. Our approach, which goes beyond computation to assess protein function, overcomes this diagnostic challenge to reliably distinguish between harmless and harmful rare genetic changes. We hope to apply this technique to other genes, unlocking essential insights hidden within our genetic code," says Dr. Sebastian Gerety.

"DDX3X is altered in a range of cancers and in particular in childhood brain cancers. Understanding exactly which mutations are disease-causing facilitates diagnosis and can help ensure patients get the most suitable treatment for their disease," says Dr. David Adams.

"Genetic testing is increasingly integrated into patient care, yet our ability to decode the genetic information has not kept pace, preventing families from receiving the full support they need. These freely available insights will empower doctors to interpret genetic tests and diagnose children earlier, enabling timely intervention and improved quality of life for those affected by DDX3X-linked neurodevelopmental disorders," says Dr. Elizabeth Radford.

More information: Elizabeth J. Radford et al, Saturation genome editing of DDX3X clarifies pathogenicity of germline and somatic variation, Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43041-4 Journal information: Nature Communications
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

With intergenerational disadvantage resulting in up to 30% of Aotearoa New Zealand children not having their basic needs met, independent think tank Koi Tu: The Center for Informed Futures is calling for the country's investment in the earliest life stages to be stepped up and well implemented.

Increased spending on health, upskilling and social support for parents and families over the first 2,000 days, starting from conception and continuing through pregnancy and childhood, would be one of the most cost-effective interventions possible, say researchers Dr. Felicia Low and Dr. Johan Morreau.

Dr. Low, who leads the Knowledge Hub for Maternal and Child Health at Koi Tu which is based at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, and Dr. Morreau, a retired general and community pediatrician and former chief medical advisor at Lakes District Health Board, have produced an evidence brief on the need for and benefits of early investment in breaking the cycle of disadvantage. They also provide solutions regarding the services and systems essential to successful implementation.

"Early investment to minimize the much greater later life cost of largely preventable issues for our children and young people cannot be overstated," says Dr. Low, whose work is funded by the Wright Family Foundation.

In their brief, "Early investment: A key to reversing intergenerational disadvantage and inequity in Aotearoa New Zealand," the researchers say a healthy society depends on healthy children, yet an estimated 20%30% of New Zealand tamariki live in poverty, a trend that began as a result of economic policy changes in the late 1980s, then exacerbated by the removal of the universal family benefit. Underfunding of such home-visiting services as Public Health Nursing and Plunket has not helped.

Despite the introduction in recent years of fiscal and social interventions to reduce child poverty, rates remain high and particularly disadvantage Maori and Pasifika populations. It has occurred against the backdrop of New Zealand's colonial history, which has contributed to significant unacceptable disadvantage and inequity for Maori, the researchers say.

"Children born into deprivation from the late 1980s were seriously stressed and are now the cohort of new parents whose children are also at greater risk of a continued cycle of disadvantage," Dr. Morreau says.

"In 2022, the Child Poverty Indicators report showed mixed progress in immediate and longer-term measures of child poverty," he says. "Clearly a more comprehensive systems approach adding to current initiatives is needed to effect more significant change."

Of particular importance in childhood outcomes is maternal mental health, says Dr. Low, which is largely determined by the level of background stressors. Appropriate systems that support all parents to achieve optimal mental well-being or manage mental-health challenges are critically important, she says.

"All children deserve the best possible start to promote their long-term physical, neurodevelopmental and mental health, and in turn their potential to contribute to society," says Dr. Low. "The first 2,000 days presents a critical window of opportunity, as this is when the child's exposures and experiences influence the trajectory of their long-term outcomes."

The researchers advocate a practical, systems approach to reversing the cycle of intergenerational disadvantage, involving cross-sectoral initiatives in the health, education and social development domains. They emphasize the critical importance of developing and growing culturally appropriate, community focused services.

"The health approach requires that mothers and fathers are linked to the maternity system as soon as possible following recognition of pregnancy," Dr. Morreau says. "This acknowledges not only that many disadvantaged young women do not engage with the health sector until pregnant, but also that it is critical to link parents and whanau with supportive systems as soon as is practicable and ensure these systems remain in place at least until the child starts school."

A promising culturally relevant pilot program, Tiaki Whanau, in which young parents are supported by kaitiaki has already begun to demonstrate the value of whanau-centered care, with increased well-being of parents and babies. The researchers say such examples must be rolled out more widely, with commitment to progressively grow and support the kaitiaki workforce to accommodate the level of need.

Sustaining the health, social development and education approaches will require cross-party acknowledgement of the enormity of the challenges, as well as a long-term whole-of-government and public service commitment to the solutions.

"This involves committing to a progressive shift in Government spending from late interventions that are relatively ineffective and expensive to investment in early preventative interventions that are more effective and less costly," both researchers emphasize.

More information: Early investment: A key to reversing intergenerational disadvantage and inequity in Aotearoa New Zealand. informedfutures.org/early-investment/

Provided by Koi Tu: the Centre for Informed Futures
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Predicted levels of family consent (WTC) across incentive conditions (predictive margins with 95% confidence intervals). Credit: Tuan Vinh Pham

Most countries experience substantial shortages of available organs for transplantation. Technological advancements and aging populations further expand the transplant waitlist every year.

What can we do to increase the organ supply? Researchers have proposed various schemes to boost the consent to donate, including health insurance premiums for living donors, funeral aids for surviving families and direct cash payments. However, this is where the ethical debate starts. Will financial incentives disrespect the donors by turning the selfless act into a market transaction (something most of us regard as repugnant)?

In a factorial survey experiment, I studied the impact of incentives on family overruling of presumed consent, a significant obstacle hindering organ donation. In particular, I examined two types of incentives, funeral aids and cash payments, regarding how their ethical values are perceived and how effective they are in inducing family consent for post-mortem donation.

The role of money in organ donation

Some economists have proposed that implementing a market-based system for organ transplantation, where supply meets demand at the equilibrium price, could address the persistent issues of organ shortages and long waitlists. Iran, the only country where such exchanges exist for kidney transplantation, has indeed managed to eliminate the scarcity of kidneys and the long waitlist.

While evidence from Iran and neoclassical economic principles suggest the potential benefits of introducing money into organ donation, critics across ethics, medical sciences and economics have challenged the function of money in this sensitive context.

In these arguments, organ donation constitutes fundamental altruistic values in society; thus, a cash-for-organ scheme can lead to widening inequality (as the supply would likely come from poor sellers to benefit rich recipients), causing potential donors in the current system to withdraw their goodwill, and worsening society's ethical standards overall.

These concerns also manifest in Iran, where kidney sellers (mostly from disadvantaged backgrounds) face frequent stigmatization within their communities.

Is there a viable incentive structure that could boost organ supply without compromising ethical values? U.S. surveyees showed strong support for a central kidney exchange system, in which donors, regardless of their wealth, receive compensation from a central agency rather than directly from recipients.

Furthermore, insights from behavioral economics reveal that people are in a prosocial mindset when their acts are rewarded with a gift, but switch to a more pro-self mindset when receiving cash payments or a gift coupled with a monetary value.

Study design

Employing a full factorial design, my study presented 756 U.S. subjects with hypothetical scenarios, wherein they are requested to make organ-donation decisions for a recently deceased family member. Each vignette varied in the characteristics of the potential donor: age (25, 40, and 55), gender (brother or sister), death type (brain or circulatory death) and recorded wish to donate (yes, no, or unclear).

Each participant was randomly assigned to one of seven incentive conditions across four categories: gift rewards (an honorary casket or a full funeral service), monetized gift rewards (a $2,500 casket or a $7,500 funeral service), direct payments ($2,500 or $7,500 in cash), and no rewards (the control). Participants were further reminded that they would be the one paying for the funeral of the deceased family member.

Following the vignette, subjects evaluated the reward presented to them in seven ethical criteria: (1) maintaining the concept of organ donation as a gift from the donor to the recipient, (2) conveying gratitude for the donation, (3) honoring the deceased donor, (4) preserving voluntariness, (5) keeping away organ commercialization, (6) upholding current altruistic values and (7) maintaining society's positive view of organ donation. Last, I asked participants to indicate their willingness to grant family consent for post-mortem donation, based on the entire vignette and incentive conditions that they saw.

Results

Participants judged funeral benefits (an honorary casket or a full funeral service), whether coupled with monetary values or not, substantially higher than cash rewards in all seven ethical criteria.

Most important, a funeral service without a disclosed value led to a 8.5% increase in family consent for post-mortem donation compared to the existing system. With weak significance, a funeral service coupled with a $7,500 price tag still boosted consent level by 7.8%. An 8.5% increase could bring about an addition of 1,000 donors annually, or 20,000 donors since 1988.

The figure above, which visualizes the predicted consent rate for each reward condition, suggests a potential price sensitivity between low and high incentives, especially between the two cash prizes. However, statistical analysis fell short of confirming the significance of this trend.

Among sociodemographic factors, only the donor status was found to strongly influence judgments, as registered donors rated rewards more favorably and indicated higher willingness to provide consent than those who had never considered becoming donors.

Conclusion

Without a doubt, incentivizing organ donation is highly controversial: it raises ethical questions about turning organ donation into a transaction and potentially undermining its altruistic nature. Finding a balance between boosting organ supply and upholding ethical standards is a challenging aspect of this ongoing debate.

This study, published in Review of Behavioral Economics, suggests that offering a funeral service to the deceased donor could strike this balance by expressing gratitude for the donation and honoring the deceased, while potentially reaching higher levels of consent from surviving families.

This story is part of Science X Dialog, where researchers can report findings from their published research articles. Visit this page for information about ScienceX Dialog and how to participate.

Correction note (12/7/2023): In the Results section "in the all-ethical criteria" has been replaced with "in all seven ethical criteria" for accuracy.

More information: Vinh Pham, Cash, Funeral Benefits or Nothing at All: How to Incentivize Family Consent for Organ Donation, Review of Behavioral Economics (2021). DOI: 10.1561/105.00000136

Tuan Vinh Pham is a researcher at the Graduate School of Economics, Waseda University, Japan. Pham's research fields include experimental economics, behavioral economics, development economics and political economy. Currently, Pham's research at Waseda University centers on examining the conflict between equality and efficiency in cooperative bargaining. Pham is also actively involved in experimental studies on incentives, norms and prosociality and is working toward conducing field experiments on economic behaviors in Vietnam, Pham's home country.
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Showing gene expression patterns. Credit: DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-00000-0

Human fingers and toes do not grow outward; instead, they form from within a larger foundational bud, as intervening cells recede to reveal the digits beneath. This is among many processes captured for the first time as scientists unveil a spatial cell atlas of the entire developing human limb, resolved in space and time.

Researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, EMBL's European Bioinformatics Institute and collaborators applied cutting-edge single-cell and spatial technologies to create an atlas characterizing the cellular landscape of the early human limb, pinpointing the exact location of cells.

This study is part of the international Human Cell Atlas initiative to map every cell type in the human body, to transform understanding of health and disease.

The atlas, published in Nature, provides an openly available resource that captures the intricate processes governing the limbs' rapid development during the early stages of limb formation.

The atlas also uncovers new links between developmental cells and some congenital limb syndromes, such as short fingers and extra digits.

This video shows the dynamic gene expression patterns of IRX1, SOX9 and MSX1, critical genes involved in limb formation. Their distinct distribution ensures the 'chiselling' process takes place. IRX1, crucial for digit formation, and SOX9, essential for skeletal development, converge into five distinct lengths within the developing limb, while MSX1, associated with undifferentiated cells, occupies the interdigital spaces between these clusters. At approximately week seven of development, molecules responsible for interdigital cell death are activated, leading to the elimination of cells in the intervening spaces. This orchestrated cell death finally unveils the well-defined shapes of fingers or toes. Credit: DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-00000-0

Limbs are known to initially emerge as undifferentiated cell pouches on the sides of the body, without a specific shape or function. However after eight weeks of development, they are well differentiated, anatomically complex and immediately recognizable as limbs, complete with fingers and toes.

This requires a very rapid and precise orchestration of cells. Any small disturbances to this process can have a downstream effect, which is why variations in the limbs are among the most frequently reported syndromes at birth, affecting approximately one in 500 births globally.

While limb development has been extensively studied in mouse and chick models, the extent to which they mirror the human situation remained unclear. However, advances in technology now enable researchers to explore the early stages of human limb formation.

In this new study, scientists from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, Sun Yat-sen University, and their collaborators analyzed tissues between five and nine weeks of development. This allowed them to trace specific gene expression programs, activated at certain times and in specific areas, which shape the forming limbs.

Special staining of the tissue revealed clearly how cell populations differentially arrange themselves into patterns of the forming digits.

As part of the study, researchers demonstrated that certain gene patterns have implications for how the hands and feet form, identifying certain genes, which when disrupted, are associated with specific limb syndromes like brachydactylyshort fingersand polysyndactylyextra fingers or toes.

The team were also able to confirm that many aspects of limb development are shared between humans and mice.

Overall, these findings not only provide an in-depth characterization of limb development in humans but also critical insights that could impact the diagnosis and treatment of congenital limb syndromes.

Professor Hongbo Zhang, senior author of the study from Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, said, "Decades of studying model organisms established the basis for our understanding of vertebrate limb development. However, characterizing this in humans has been elusive until now, and we couldn't assume the relevance of mouse models for human development."

"What we reveal is a highly complex and precisely regulated process. It is like watching a sculptor at work, chiseling away at a block of marble to reveal a masterpiece. In this case, nature is the sculptor, and the result is the incredible complexity of our fingers and toes."

Dr. Sarah Teichmann, senior author of the study from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, and co-founder of the Human Cell Atlas, said, "For the first time, we have been able to capture the remarkable process of limb development down to single cell resolution in space and time."

"Our work in the Human Cell Atlas is deepening our understanding of how anatomically complex structures form, helping us uncover the genetic and cellular processes behind healthy human development, with many implications for research and health care. For instance, we discovered novel roles of key genes MSC and PITX1 that may regulate muscle stem cells. This could offer potential for treating muscle-related disorders or injuries."

More information: Hongbo Zhang et al, A human embryonic limb cell atlas resolved in space and time, Nature (2023). http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06806-x These data sets are available for interactive analysis at: https://limb-dev.cellgeni.sanger.ac.uk/ Journal information: Nature
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

A paper from the University of Southampton examining how best to treat psychosis has concluded that a greater range of individually targeted therapies could improve outcomes for patients.

The research questions if Cognitive Behavior Therapy for psychosis (CBTp) should remain the dominant treatment and suggests that, in the future, big data and artificial intelligence may help to develop a range of more bespoke therapies.

CBTp was introduced in the 1990s, and after evaluation in a large number of clinical trials, it became an established treatment for psychosis. Now, psychologists at the universities of Southampton and Sheffield have asked if less complex, less costly approaches may be as, or more, effective.

Lead author of the paper, Professor Katherine Newman-Taylor of the School of Psychology at the University of Southampton, explains, "Our article asks whether CBTp benefits people with early psychosis and those with schizophrenia-related diagnoses in terms of clinical, functioning, and recovery outcomes. Also, for young people with mental health conditions who are at high risk of developing psychosis."

"While acknowledging the benefits CBTp can have for some, we wanted to consider if we should now look elsewhere to improve outcomes and if refining existing therapies could better meet the needs of people with psychosis."

Psychosis is when a person perceives or interprets reality in a very different way from others. It may involve hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking and speech. The term psychosis describes symptoms across a range of conditions but is typically associated with the diagnosis of schizophrenia.

Psychosis can lead to feeling scared, anxious, threatened, confused and overwhelmed. CBT works by helping people to make sense of their early life experiences and current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, for example, when hearing voices or in the grip of paranoia. Therapy involves working collaboratively to build the person's ability and confidence that they can do what's important to them, even if the voices, paranoia, and other symptoms of psychosis persist.

The Southampton and Sheffield researchers examined two umbrella reviews conducted by other researchers in 2019 and 2023. An umbrella review provides a very high-level analysis of a wide range and large number of past research papers to help reach conclusions about a topic or issue.

The team used these recent umbrella reviews to give a 'bird's eye view' of the effectiveness of CBTp in treating psychosis in different groups of people. Their findings are published in the journal of Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice .

The paper concludes that large-scale analysis of treatment outcomes from pooled data is masking important nuances. While many are benefitting from CBTp, some patients only experience modest outcomes, and others may be harmed by it.

The team says that by focusing on the therapeutic relationship and particular processessuch as worry and past trauma, clinicians would be able to help people more effectively.

They also propose the development of large datasets, interpreted by sophisticated AI machine learning tools, to help aid decisions about treatments. These may include CBTp alongside other approaches, such as working with the whole family and setting up informal peer support networks early in the treatment process.

Professor Katherine Newman-Taylor concludes, "We predict that over the next ten years, large, continually evolving datasets, built from patient experience, will be used to shape precision psychological therapies."

"Using data to determine treatment outcomes will help us to choose the right evidence-based therapy for an individual. However, it is vital that we use these methods to make decisions jointly with patients and only work with organizations who we trust to manage our health data securely and ethically."

More information: Katherine NewmanTaylor et al, Cognitive behavioural therapy for psychosis: The end of the line or time for a new approach?, Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice (2023). DOI: 10.1111/papt.12498
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Effects of Visfatin on podocyte injury. Credit: 2023 Koka et al.

A new research paper was published in Aging, titled, "Contribution of membrane raft redox signaling to visfatin-induced inflammasome activation and podocyte injury."

The number of obese patients with end-stage renal disease has increased significantly worldwide in the last few decades. Obesity results in an increased risk for chronic kidney diseases like diabetes and hypertension, which consequently result in chronic kidney disease or even end-stage renal disease. However, the exact mechanism of how obesity increases the advancement of chronic kidney disease is still uncertain.

Recently, researchers Saisudha Koka, Sreenidhi Surineni, Gurinder Bir Singh, and Krishna M. Boini from the University of Houston, Texas A&M University and the University of California Riverside have shown that adipokine visfatin-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation contributes to podocyte injury.

However, the molecular mechanisms of how visfatin induces the Nlrp3 inflammasome activation and podocyte damage are still unknown. The present study tested whether the membrane raft (MR) redox signaling pathway plays a central role in visfatin-induced NLRP3 inflammasome formation and activation in podocytes.

Credit: Impact Journals LLC

"In this study, it is proposed that visfatin induces the NLRP3 inflammasome activation in podocytes, leading to glomerular inflammatory injury in the kidney and the development of CKD, may be primarily driven by NADPH oxidase-mediated membrane raft redox signaling," the authors write.

Upon visfatin stimulation, an aggregation of NADPH oxidase subunits, gp91phox and p47phox, was observed in the MR clusters, forming an MR redox signaling platform in podocytes. The formation of this signaling platform was blocked by prior treatment with MR disruptor MCD or NADPH oxidase inhibitor DPI. In addition, visfatin stimulation significantly increased the colocalization of Nlrp3 with Asc or Nlrp3 with caspase-1, IL- production, cell permeability in podocytes compared to control cells.

Pretreatment with MCD, DPI, and WEHD significantly abolished the visfatin-induced colocalization of NLRP3 with Asc or NLRP3 with caspase-1, IL-1 production, and cell permeability in podocytes. Furthermore, Immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated that visfatin treatment significantly decreased the podocin and nephrin expression (podocyte damage), and prior treatments with DPI, WEHD, and MCD attenuated this visfatin-induced podocin and nephrin reduction.

In conclusion, their results suggest that visfatin stimulates membrane raft clustering in the membrane of podocytes to form redox signaling platforms by aggregation and activation of NADPH oxidase subunits enhancing O 2  production, leading to NLRP3 inflammasome activation in podocytes and ultimate podocyte injury.

"Through experiments conducted on cultured podocytes, we have demonstrated, for the first time that membrane raft-associated redox signaling is essential for the NLRP3 inflammasomes assembly and activation in response to visfatin, subsequently resulting in podocyte dysfunction and injury. These findings shed light on a novel mechanism underlying inflammasome activation and injury of podocytes triggered by visfatin," the researchers conclude.

More information: Saisudha Koka et al, Contribution of membrane raft redox signalling to visfatin-induced inflammasome activation and podocyte injury, Aging (2023). DOI: 10.18632/aging.205243

Provided by Impact Journals LLC
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Anti-opioid efficacy of CSX-1004 in mice. Credit: Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43126-0

Scientists have developed an antibody treatment that shows promise in blocking the potentially deadly effects of fentanyl for nearly a month, raising hopes for a new tool to combat overdoses.

Tests in animals found that the treatment could effectively block the effects of fentanyl, laying the groundwork for assessing whether the medication will prove effective in humans, according to a study published in the journal Nature Communications.

The antibodies are too big to cross the blood-brain barrier, so when they bind to fentanyl in the bloodstream, they stop the powerful opioid from reaching receptors in the brain, researchers explained. The experimental treatment, dubbed CSX-1004, was administered to animals via an intravenous infusion.

Andrew Barrett, chief scientific officer for Cessation Therapeutics, the company that developed the treatment, likened the way it works to "Pac-Man" snapping up fentanyl in the blood, which "prevents fentanyl from ever getting to the brain where it produces its effects," both pleasurable and dangerous.

Among its possible uses: The infusion could be given as a preventive measure to patients who complete an inpatient detoxification program "to try to prevent a death in the event of a relapse," Barrett said.

Finding such a tool has been especially urgent as the number of American lives lost to drug overdoses has climbed to more than 100,000 a year, according to federal data. The bulk of those deaths have been linked to synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, a potent drug that has also been found in counterfeit pills and is often mingled with other drugs such as methamphetamine.

Scientists at Cessation Therapeutics in San Diego, teaming up with researchers from Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital in Massachusetts, performed a series of tests in rodents and squirrel monkeys to gauge CSX-1004's effects and found that a single infusion protected the primates from fentanyl for more than three weeks.

One set of experiments included eight monkeys who were given fentanyl multiple times over 28 days. The animals first received a placebo to see how they responded to the opioid without treatment. Later, they received either a low or high dose of CSX-1004 at the outset of the cycle and were given fentanyl six times.

Breathing measurements showed the medicine was most protective for the first week and waned steadily after that, with the higher dose showing significant effects for as long as 28 days.

The experimental treatment reversed slowed or shallow breathing, an overdose symptom that can lead to death, researchers reported. And it worked on other dangerous fentanyl analogs like carfentanila synthetic opioid intended for sedating large animals without affecting oxycodone or other opioids prescribed by doctors for pain management, the study authors found.

Cessation Therapeutics has started assessing the safety of the treatment in human volunteers and plans to next gauge its effects in people with opioid dependency, Barrett said. If CSX-1004 proves effective in clinical trials, the researchers said, it could protect people who are at high risk of overdose and become a bridge to other treatments that address craving and withdrawal symptoms, researchers wrote.

"We're in that crisis situation where we need all hands on deck to help prevent people from dying," said Kelly E. Dunn, a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine who advised the company on the design for human trials of the medication but was not involved in data collection for the new study.

"These transformative approaches are exactly what we need," because with existing tools, "we're just not making the headway that we would hope."

Arming people with antibodies has long been explored by researchers as a potential way to protect people from a range of addictive drugs.

With fentanyl deaths up sharply since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the research on antibody treatments "really opens a door for a tool that will help us address very high-risk populations," said Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Among them are people exiting jails or prisons, who face an alarmingly high risk of overdose in the weeks after they are released, she said.

Volkow added that the treatment could help protect people who use cocaine or methamphetamine, who are in danger of overdosing when their drugs are contaminated with fentanyl. For those people, she said, "you will dramatically reduce the risk for dying."

The antibodies could have advantages over extended-release naltrexone, a medication that blocks the effects of opioids, Barrett said. Monthly injections of naltrexone require people to abstain from opioids for a while before beginning the medication.

"Your tolerance goes down very quickly" in that time, said Dr. Melissa B. Weimer, an associate professor of medicine and public health at Yale who was not involved in the study. As they undergo withdrawal, "most people who have severe opioid use disorder will be quite uncomfortable during that period of time. That places them at risk to not start treatment," leaving them unprotected and at higher risk of opioid overdose.

In addition, people taking naltrexone cannot use other common medications to reduce opioid cravings such as methadone. And because naltrexone blocks all opioids, it can complicate pain management in emergencies. Based on the findings so far, CSX-1004 doesn't share those drawbacks, Barrett said.

The research team is still studying whether CSX-1004 causes "precipitated withdrawal"an abrupt and sickening experience that people have suffered with some treatments for opioid use disorder. "We don't know the answer yet, but we don't think it will be a profound withdrawal" because of the way it works, Barrett said.

Weimer said that another important question is what happens if people use more fentanyl to try to override the effects of the medication. Physicians will need to know if people could be at higher risk of overdose as the effects of the medication wear off, she said.

And then there is the practical question of "what proportion of individuals would opt for this treatment," said Dr. Larissa Mooney, an addiction psychiatrist at UCLA. "People who choose this therapy option would have to be motivated to receive a treatment that will reduce the effects of fentanyl."

Scientists have also tried to develop vaccines that prompt the body to produce antibodies that can protect against fentanyl and other illicit drugs. Dr. Thomas Kosten, a psychiatrist at Baylor College of Medicine who has been working on a fentanyl vaccine, said antibody-based therapies might have some practical drawbacks.

The cost of making monoclonal antibodies like CSX-1004 is "rather high," Kosten said, and "you can't just store a monoclonal in your closet, you have to refrigerate it. ... So in some ways, it's not a practical solution to what's a huge problem." He also questioned whether health insurers would cover the costs of an infusion treatment for substance use disorder.

Volkow said that if a treatment like CSX-1004 proves effective in humans, "there is a lot of room for innovation" to address practical issues. "It would make sense to do that innovation if it does look like it's going to work."

Cessation Therapeutics said it is already developing an injectable version of the antibody treatment that could be more convenient. In the new paper, the authors wrote that monoclonal antibodies could be priced around the same level as some existing treatments for opioid use disorder.

Dunn of Johns Hopkins University urged more investment in new medications and approaches to thwart overdoses. There is "very little general investment in this area," she said, despite the alarming number of lives lost. "We need that investment to be able to really make big changes."

More information: Paul T. Bremer et al, Investigation of monoclonal antibody CSX-1004 for fentanyl overdose, Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43126-0 Journal information: Nature Communications

2023 Los Angeles Times. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Credit: Nicolas Decat / Paris Brain Institute

What if the biological mechanisms that cause multiple sclerosis were triggered years before clinical diagnosis? This is what a team at Paris Brain Institute suggests in a new study published in Neurology.

The researchers show that, on a population scale, the frequency of disorders such as depression, constipation, and urinary tract infections is associated with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis five years later. These results outline a prodromal phase of the disease, but at this stage, they do not allow for the development of an early detection technique.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease in which the immune system attacks myelin, the protective sheath of nerve fibers, which plays a critical role in the spread of nerve impulses between the brain and peripheral organs. In France, 120,000 people are affected by MS, whose management has improved considerably over the last ten years. Unfortunately, there is still no cure to speak ofand no therapeutic solution at all for the 15% of patients with a progressive form.

"One of the major difficulties with multiple sclerosis is that we do not observe a strict correspondence between the severity of lesions on nerve fibers and patients' symptoms. This considerably limits our ability to predict the course of the disease," Prof. Celine Louapre, a neurologist at Pitie-Salpetriere Hospital and head of Paris Brain Institute's clinical investigation center, explains.

"The challenge today is to detect the disease as early as possible, well before the lesions are visible on MRI, in the hope of delaying the onset of disability."

Several studies have already suggested that, in some patients, subtle symptoms were present up to ten years before diagnosis. What remained was to quantify this phenomenon at the population scale to rigorously define a "prodromal phase" of multiple sclerosis, i.e., a period during which the disease takes hold discreetly. In addition, a better understanding of the early symptoms of MS could help researchers pinpoint the exact moment when the inflammatory process that causes lesions in the central nervous system begins.

Leveraging massive epidemiological data

To this end, Pr. Celine Louapre, accompanied by Octave Guinebretiere and Thomas Nedelac, compared the health data of 20,174 patients with multiple sclerosis, 54,790 patients without multiple sclerosis, and 37,814 patients affected by two autoimmune diseases which, like MS, mainly affect women and young adultsnamely 30,477 patients with Crohn's disease and 7,337 with lupus.

Using anonymized medical records from the UK's Health Improvement Network (THIN), the team analyzed the health trajectory of these patients, focusing on the frequency of 113 common symptoms and illnesses over five years before and five years after diagnosis. A similar reference period was used for control patients without autoimmune disease.

The researchers observed that five symptoms were significantly associated with a later diagnosis of multiple sclerosis: depression, sexual disorders, constipation, cystitis, and other urinary tract infections.

"This association was sufficiently robust at the statistical level for us to state that these are early clinical warning signs, probably related to damage to the nervous system, in patients who will later be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis," Prof. Celine Louapre explains. "The overrepresentation of these symptoms persisted and even increased over the five years after diagnosis."

Shedding light on the trajectory of the disease

However, these five symptoms also appeared in the prodromal phase of lupus and Crohn's disease, which means they are not specific to MS. Most importantly, they are also widespread in healthy people.

"These signs alone will not be enough to make an early diagnosis, but they will certainly help us better understand the mechanisms of multiple sclerosiswhich has many causesand reconstruct its natural history," she adds. "Finally, these new data support the idea that the disease begins well before the onset of classic neurological symptoms."

Only a tiny fraction of people who experience depression, sexual problems, constipation, and urinary tract infections will be diagnosed with an autoimmune disease a few years later. But in populations with a specific riskin certain familial forms of multiple sclerosis, for examplethese signs will help to give early warning and perhaps lead to therapeutic intervention.

More information: Guinebretiere, O., Association between diseases and symptoms diagnosed in primary care and the subsequent specific risk of multiple sclerosis. Neurology, December 6, 2023. DOI: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000207981. Journal information: Neurology
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Much attention has recently focused on the use of opioids, which include morphine and related painkillers such as oxycodone. Though regarded as a blessing for patients suffering from severe and acute pain, they can also be a curse due to their potentially addictive nature and the risk of fatal overdose.

The opioid crisis in the U.S. and Canada, where tens of thousands of people die of overdoses each year, is now casting a shadow over Europe, where the number of prescriptions for opioids such as oxycodone has seen a big jump over the past decade.

Opioids also feature large in the research collaboration between Kantonsspital Baden's hospital pharmacy and the Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences at ETH Zurich, a project that has been running for more than four years. ETH's participation in this project is led by Professor of Pharmacoepidemiology Andrea Burden. A key role is played by her colleague Dominik Stampfli, who splits his time between working as a clinical pharmacist at Kantonsspital Baden and as a scientist in Burden's research group at ETH.

Optimal therapy

Both researchers work on a number of topics, including the risks that medication poses to patients and how drug administration can be improved to ensure patients derive the maximum benefits from their course of treatment. Their goal is to minimize the frequency of side-effects, the risk of overdose and the development of drug dependence.

Re-hospitalization also forms part of their research. A key goal of care is to avoid any post-discharge complications that might make it necessary for a patient to be readmitted after leaving hospital. Once again, opioids emerge as a key factor here, as an ETH Master's student was able to show in a data analysis under the supervision of Stampfli and Burden.

This analysis revealed that patients who were still being prescribed opioid painkillers at the time of discharge from hospital had an increased risk of being re-hospitalized within 30 days. "The results confirmed what we already knew: that we need to take better care of patients that receive opioids," says Stampfli.

According to an analysis of health insurance dataexcluding patients who receive opioids for cancer pain and opioid-dependent patients receiving controlled quantities under medical supervisionaround one-third of people in Switzerland who are prescribed opioids by a doctor continue taking the medication for over 12 months. Yet evidence suggests that while opioids are useful for treating acute pain and for palliative care, they should not be taken for longer periods of time to treat chronic pain.

This is because long-term use may increase sensitivity to pain, hinder rehabilitation or lead to opioid use disorder with the risk of overdose. Recommendations on how to make the best use of these drugs in hospitals are therefore vital. At Kantonsspital Baden, a team is now working with resident clinicians, nurses and primary-care practitioners to put together appropriate guidelines. This will also include advice on how doctors and nurses can work together to ensure that patients eventually come off their opioid medication.

Discharge without opioids

"Patients need better support with opioid therapy; we shouldn't be leaving them to deal with this alone," says Burden. This support might include monitoring patients more closely while they are still in hospital, as well as making an earlier start on tapering off the dosage. "Ideally, this tapering process would be completed before the patient leaves hospital, so that they can be discharged without opioids," says Stampfli.

Meanwhile, patients who still require opioid painkillers after leaving hospital should be given detailed information on how to use their medication properly, either through talking to a clinician or in the form of leaflets. Patients and their primary-care practitioners need to know how quickly they should taper off opioid medication for acute pain. Kantonsspital Baden is therefore working with Burden on a study that will assess the effectiveness of different tapering strategies.

"It's not about withholding opioids from patients, because they have the right to relief from excessive pain," says Burden. "It's more a question of making responsible use of this type of pain-relief medication, which basically means using it for short-term relief from acute, severe pain and combining this with a clear exit strategy."

The collaboration between Kantonsspital Baden and ETH offers benefits for both sides. "ETH Zurich doesn't have a medical faculty; by working with the hospital, we get the opportunity to conduct research using patient data and to carry out clinical studies," says Burden.

The key benefits for her come from the close contact to doctors, nurses and pharmacists who work with patients on a daily basisin other words, practitioners who have plenty of pressing questions. "Scientists like us have the research expertise and can help them find the answers they need," she says.
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

A trip to the doctor's office comes with a bit of preparation for most, maybe even an internal pep talk to prepare for being told to get more exercise or calm a simmering fear of needles.

But dressing well in hopes of warding off unfair treatmentor even bracing for being insulted?

A newly released poll by KFF, a health policy research group, found many patients of colorincluding 3 in 5 Black respondentstake such steps at least some of the time when seeing a doctor.

The poll found that 55% of Black respondents said they feel like they must be very careful about their appearance to be treated fairly at medical visits. That's similar to the rate for Hispanic and Alaska Native patientsand nearly double the rate for white patients.

Nearly 30% of Black respondents prepare to be insulted, also about double the rate for white patients.

"It's exhausting," survey respondent Christine Wright, 60, told The Associated Press.

Wright, who is Black, says she's faced years of discriminationincluding once being called a racial slur by a nurse. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017 and recently found a doctor she trusts. But she still makes sure to dress well for any medical appointments, putting on jewelry, a nice coat and making sure her hair is done.

She braces herself for looks and comments from doctors and staff. "They don't control you," she tells herself. "They don't. Doesn't matter what they're saying about you. Because you're not that."

While more than 90% of those polled said they were not treated unfairly or with disrespect in a health care setting because of their race or ethnic background in the past three years, the anticipation of unequal treatment can influence patients' interactions with their doctors, experts say. That's a particular concern because of the wide disparities in health outcomes along racial lines in the U.S.

"This survey shows the impact racism and discrimination continues to have on people's health care experiences," said KFF President Drew Altman.

Dr. Allison Bryant, an obstetrician at Massachusetts General Hospital who was not involved in the survey, said it provided importantthough not necessarily surprisingresults.

Bryant, who also serves as her hospital system's associate chief health equity officer, said she has heard similar stories from patients of color and seen it in the system's own patient satisfaction data. And as a Black woman, she lives the experience herself, often double-checking she has her ID or wedding ring visible to ward off assumptions from others.

"I think everybody experiences that to some extent," Bryant said. "But I understand why it's more exaggerated in individuals of color, who have a legacy of not being treated well."

The behavior indicates a deeper problem, Bryant said, one that can influence critical interactions between a doctor and patient.

If you anticipate someone may treat you badly you may be more tense, you may not speak properly, she said. "There are deep harms that are associated with this that go beyond what it might look like at the surface, which is like, 'I put on some high heels and I put on some lipstick.'"

Jeymie Luna Roldan, 45, also participated in the survey. She thinks her previous lack of health insurance or her imperfect English contributed to her bad experiences at the doctor. She spoke to the AP in Spanish.

"In my case, I'm Latina," said Roldan, of Lake Worth, Florida. "So when I have an appointment, I have to dress up a littleput on earrings, makeupso that they don't see me in my work clothes. There's a saying that goes, 'Como te miro, te trato.'"

That translates to: "You're treated how you look."

Despite high percentages of people saying they prepare for insults or feel their appearance can influence how they are treated at the doctor, 93% said they have not felt they were treated unfairly or with disrespect in a health care setting because of their race or ethnic background in the past three years.

But there were still wide differences among racial groups. Asians and Hispanics were three times more likely to say they've been treated badly in a health care setting because of their race than white respondents and Black respondents were 6 times more likely.

Beyond the doctor's office, 58% of American Indians and Alaska Natives, 54% of Black respondents, 50% of Hispanics, and 42% of Asians said they experienced at least one type of discrimination in daily life at least a few times in the past year. That includes getting poorer service at stores and restaurants, being threatened, harassed, or treated like they are not smart, or being criticized for speaking a language other than English.

While this shows health care is just one of the settings where discrimination is persistent, Bryant said, being treated with disrespect at a car dealership or profiled at a department store poses a different type of risk. A dismissive cardiologist not ordering the right tests because a patient doesn't "look the part" is potentially more dangerous.

"The consequences in health care are really striking and very frightening, honestly, to understand what people need to do to be taken seriously, to be seen as a whole person," she said. "I think these data really speak to that."

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

As the holiday and peak respiratory seasons collide, and COVID-19 cases continue a steady, weeks-long climb, doctors want high-risk people to remember: Should COVID catch them in the coming days, one call to the doctor could save Christmasor more.

Paxlovid, an antiviral COVID therapy given under emergency use authorization (EUA) during the pandemic and now approved by prescription, prevents hospitalization and death between 60% and 80% of the time. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the drug in May for mild to moderate COVID in adults at high risk of developing severe illness.

"Over the past month, there's been a steady increase in both emergency room visits and hospitalizations for COVID," said Thomas Campbell, MD, a professor of infectious diseases at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Yet uptake of Paxlovid remains relatively low, with experts attributing fears of a rebound effect and a catalogue of drug interactions longer than Santa's list.

Campbell advises people to at least make that call. Doctors can help weigh whether risks outweigh benefits, find alternatives to some drugs that have interactions, and even offer alternative therapies in some cases, he said.

"It's important that to have its maximum benefit, Paxlovid is started as soon as possible after the onset of symptomsnot after diagnosisand no more than five days after onset," Campbell said. Anyone with at least one high-risk factor should talk with their doctors, he said.

Nearly three-quarters of Americans fall in that group, with risk factors including diabetes, obesity, asthma, heart disease, and being 50 or older so prevalent. High-risk youth between 12 and 18 years old can still receive Paxlovid under the EUA, and adults can receive a prescription directly from a pharmacist supplied with the required health information.

As all emerging variants still reside within the omicron family, the newest booster shot, which wholly targets omicron, remains the best defense, Campbell said. And Paxlovid has maintained its effectiveness against the new variants, he said.

In the following Q&A, Campbell discusses the pros and cons of Paxlovid and its alternatives as well as potential new options on the horizon, including one new drug targeting non-high-risk patients undergoing a clinical trial he is currently leading at the CU Anschutz Medical Campus.

What is Paxlovid exactly, and how does it work?

Paxlovid is a mixture of two drugs, nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. Nirmatrelvir is an inhibitor of the coronavirus proteasean enzyme that the virus uses to finish off the final building blocks of its structure. It's essential for the virus. If that step doesn't take place, the virus is not produced.

Ritonavir does not have any direct effects on the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It's a medicine to boost the levels of nirmatrelvir.

A chief goal of medications for outpatients is to prevent hospitalization and death. How good is Paxlovid at that goal?

In clinical trials, it was approximately 80% effective in reducing hospitalization and death. In real world situations, it is slightly less than that, more like in the 60% to 70% range. But that's still highly effective.

Another goal of these therapies is to speed recovery. How does Paxlovid rate at that job?

It probably provides some benefit in speeding recovery, but studies have not conclusively demonstrated that. And we don't currently advocate Paxlovid for people who are not at high risk for hospitalization just in order to help them feel better faster.

Is that lack of evidence why Paxlovid is not recommended for everyone?

That's part of the reason. There's less clear benefit. Another part is the cost (about $1,400 for the 30-pill, five-day regimen). And then there's always risk. With any medication, even if it's an aspirin, there's a potential risk. It's always about the ratio of benefit to risk.

Paxlovid also has a long list of drug interactions (600-plus, many of which treat the conditions that make people susceptible to severe COVID illness. Campbell recommends a drug interaction checker to health providers that label risks for each drug as high, medium or low and offers alternatives when available).

Some people with just one risk factor, especially if it's just being in their 50s, can have a harder time deciding whether to take Paxlovid. How do you advise those people?

There needs to be an informed conversation about it. The risk factors are additive. So age plus diabetes plus obesity plus asthmathose all add up. In someone who just has age as a risk factor but is otherwise healthy, the absolute risk of severe illness is smaller. So the person needs to understand that.

And then they need to understand what the benefit of Paxlovid might be, and together with their doctor make an informed decision.

With age, too, the risk for someone who just turned 50 is not the same as the risk for someone who's 90. There is a gradient of risk as people get older. And that gradient starts at age 50.

As far as side effects, much concern appears to center around the rebound effect. What is the rebound effect, how common is it, and how would you weigh that concern?

The rebound can be two different things. One can be a viral rebound without any symptoms, meaning that after Paxlovid is stopped there is another surge in virus shedding in the upper respiratory tract, so a positive nasal swab.

The other is symptomatic rebound, which is the recurrence of COVID symptoms: headache, muscle aches, cough, etc. So depending on how rebound is defined and measured, the prevalence of it may differ somewhat.

Now, both of those types of rebound occur with natural recovery from COVID in the absence of any treatment. And it's roughly around 10% to 15% in people just recovering from COVID. When people take Paxlovid for treatment for COVID, it's approximately twice as likely to occur. So it's more like 20% to 30%.

And in both cases, nothing necessarily needs to be done. People will then recover again from that rebound. That rebound is usually not severe and is usually not something that's going to put someone in the hospital.

What do medical scientists think causes the Paxlovid rebound? Some reports have suggested the dosage time might need to be extended.

That is a plausible hypothesis. I think the obvious answer to why there is rebound is that the body's immune system is not controlling the virus once the Paxlovid is taken away, and perhaps that could be because not enough time has elapsed to allow the body's immune response to be to the level that it needs to be. So giving it for a longer period of time could allow that to happen.

However, that doesn't mean we should go out and start giving everybody Paxlovid for 10 days instead of five days because when we do that, the risk of side effects increases. And the cost is also going to double. So until we have good, solid data, meaning randomized clinical trials defining what the benefit of 10 days versus five days is, we should stick with five days.

Another often talked about side effect is a metallic taste in the mouth. What's behind that odd effect?

That could be either from the nirmatrelvir (the coronavirus protease inhibitor) or from the ritonavir, which is an inhibitor of HIV protease. Metallic taste is a common (nonharmful) complaint of people who take ritonavir as well. So it seems to be a commonality for protease inhibitors in general.

What are other drug options similar to Paxlovid, and how do they compare?

A second medication that is FDA authorized for outpatient treatment is remdesivir, which has to be started within seven days of onset of symptoms. Its main issue is that it has to be delivered via IV (intravenous) infusion once a day for three consecutive days. So that is much less convenient. But the data show that it is just as effective as Paxlovid in preventing hospitalization. And it doesn't come with a long list of drug interactions.

The third option is molnupiravir (Lagevrio), which is also an oral medicine, but it is not as effective as either Paxlovid or remdesivir in terms of reducing hospitalizations. It's still effective, but just not as effective. That's why the first choice for someone who is at high risk is always Paxlovid or remdesivir.

What does the landscape look like for new, better COVID medications that have fewer side effects and contraindications?

I think we will continue to see other small-molecule drugs developed. There is another coronavirus protease inhibitor therapy (like Paxlovid) called ensitrelvir, which is approved for use in Japan. It is in phase 3 clinical trials here in the U.S. (including a current trial led by Campbell on the CU Anschutz Medical Campus) and has not yet had an approval or an authorization from the FDA.

Like Paxlovid, it's an oral agent. It has to be started soon after the onset of symptoms, just like Paxlovid, and it does not have the metallic taste of Paxlovid. It does not require the ritonavir boosting like Paxlovid, but it does still have a long list of drug interactions.

What else is on the horizon for new therapies?

There is work on remdesivir, which we have now but has to be given intravenously, to develop an oral formulation. And remdesivir targets a different part of the virus. It targets the virus's polymerase, and so if an oral formulation proves successful, then that could be a big added benefit. As with the IV formulation, we would not expect many drug interactions, so an oral remdesivir this could provide an alternative to Paxlovid to people who have drug interactions.
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) Principle of the technology. (B) Electrolysis of a tungsten electrode in physiological saline. The black lumps are oxides. (C) Procedure for applying this technology in vivo. (D) Dark-field observation image of a slice of a mouse brain in which this technology was applied in deep brain regions. (E) Enlarged view of the black-bounded area in (D). The glowing red mass is an oxide mark. Credit: Toyohashi University of Technology.

Researchers have developed a technology capable of deploying very small "marks" in regions of the brain where activity has been recorded.

These marks are created by passing a microcurrent through tungsten electrodes inserted in the brain to record brain activity. These marks do not damage brain tissue and can remain safely inside the brain of a living organism. This technology enables a high-resolution visualization of the brain-wide distribution of neurons with particular functional characteristics. The results of this research were published in eNeuro.

Studies involving recording the activities of deep brain regions, such as the hippocampus and thalamus, commonly utilize needle-like microelectrodes penetrating into the brain to record the electrical activity of neurons. These electrodes have the advantage of higher spatiotemporal resolution than fMRI or EEG recordings and are capable of recording signals from the tissues of deep brain region.

However, one disadvantage of using these electrodes is that it becomes quite difficult to ascertain where exactly in the brain the electrode tip was situated after it has been removed. To address this shortcoming, a mark placement method called "marking" has been widely used. However, these existing methods have limited spatial resolution and cause damage to brain tissue. Therefore, the maximum degree of spatial precision possible with conventional experimental methods remains approximately 0.1 mm.

Tatsuya Oikawa, Toshimitsu Hara, Kento Nomura, along with Associate Professor Kowa Koida of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Toyohashi University of Technology, contributed to the study. Oikawa and his colleagues focused on the electrolysis of tungsten, a metal commonly used to make the aforementioned needle-like electrodes. They developed a method wherein electrolysis was employed to deposit oxidized tungsten within the tissues of the deep brain region.

When electrolyzed, the tungsten electrode generates metal oxide and hydrogen bubbles at positive and negative currents, respectively. By rapidly alternating between positive and negative currents, metal oxide is repeatedly generated at the tip of the tungsten electrode, followed by detachment by hydrogen bubbles; this results in the formation of a small lump of oxide. This lump of oxide serves as a mark indicating the precise location of the electrode tip.

Oikawa and his colleagues used the brains of mice and monkeys as models to generate minute oxide lumps (as small as 20 m in diameter) at the electrode tip and confirmed that they could be deposited within the brain. They also confirmed that the current used to generate these marks and the deposited oxides do not damage brain tissue.

Furthermore, they made the noteworthy discovery that the deposited oxides appear to glow red when stained using a standard brain tissue stain (Nissl staining) and observed under a microscope using dark-field illumination. This distinctive characteristic clearly differentiates the marks from surrounding noise, facilitating the easy identification of small markings through low-power microscopy.

Development background

Associate Professor Kowa Koida, the advisor to Oikawa and his colleagues, said, "Originally, our plan was to remove plated coatings applied in advance to the electrodes and utilize them as marks. Unfortunately, a mix-up occurred during experimentation, leading us to unintentionally employ an incompletely plated electrode. Surprisingly, despite this setback, we observed the formation of a mark. Upon closer consideration, we recognized that electrolysis, which is commonly used to form tungsten rods into thin needles for electrodes, produces an oxide powder."

"That powder can become a mark. We also realized that electrolysis can be performed in vivo. Furthermore, we found that the current parameters necessary for electrolysis can align with those employed when activating neurons through current delivered via the electrode. Essentially, the safety of the organism marked using our method has already been validated in previous experiments involving current stimulation. While it has been widely known that current stimulation results in the wear and tear of electrode tips, what remained unnoticed was that simultaneously, metal oxides are deposited in the body, serving as marks."

Future outlook

Now, Oikawa and his colleagues are applying this technology to unravel the microscopic functional structure of the lateral geniculate nucleus, a visual center deep in the brain of macaque monkeys. By providing examples of effective applications of this technology, they aim to foster its widespread adoption as a fundamental technique in neuroscience.

Furthermore, this processing technique, utilizing in vivo metal electrolysis for deposition, has been used in the medical field, such as the treatment of aneurysms using embolization coils. Therefore, electrolysis in vivo has already garnered a certain level of trust. By combining both the measurement and deposition processes into a unified technique using microelectrodes, the technologies used in this study may be applied to medical care as well.

More information: Tatsuya Oikawa et al, A Fine-Scale and Minimally Invasive Marking Method for Use with Conventional Tungsten Microelectrodes, eNeuro (2023). DOI: 10.1523/ENEURO.0141-23.2023 Journal information: eNeuro
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YBX1 resides in the mitochondrial IMS. (a) Representative images of colocalization of YBX1 and PDHA1 in MDA-MB-231, MHCC-97H, and HEK293T cells. Red indicates YBX1 and green indicates PDHA1. Scale bar, 10 m. (b) Immunoblotting analysis of subcellular distribution of YBX1. Cytosol (Cyto), the supernatant in isolated mitochondria (Mito) described in the methods. GAPDH, a cytosol protein; LAMIN-B1, a nuclear protein; TOM20, a mitochondrial protein. Credit: Life Metabolism (2023). DOI: 10.1093/lifemeta/load038

Cancer metastasis is a crucial area in cancer research that directly affects patient survival and treatment outcomes. Cancer cells often undergo adaptive metabolic changes during metastasis from in situ to distant organs to overcome energy deprivation and achieve rapid proliferation in the changed environment.

Studies have shown that most metastatic tumor cells acquire a higher glycolytic capacity. However, the study of cancer metastasis targets is constrained by the limited understanding of mechanisms regarding cancer metabolic homeostasis.

Recently, Hai-Long Piao lab at Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences found that the Y-box binding protein 1 (YBX1), a previously known DNA/RNA binding protein, resides in the mitochondrial inter-membrane space (IMS) and interacts with pyruvate transporter protein to inhibit the entry of pyruvate into the mitochondria, which thereby facilitates cancer metastasis.

Their findings, now published in the journal Life Metabolism offer a novel idea for the development of targeted drugs for cancer metastasis.

YBX1 is a classical DNA/RNA binding protein that regulates many target proteins highly related to tumor development and metastasis. In the present study, the researchers found that rare YBX1 protein localized to mitochondria in mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells, whereas more mitochondrial localization of YBX1 protein was in tumor cells as well as in human embryonic kidney HEK-293T cells.

By using protein interaction mass spectrometry, the researchers found that YBX1 in mitochondria interacts with mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC) 1/2, and, by further combining immunoprecipitation and fluorescence resonance energy transfer experiments, they found that the YBX1 protein can bind the MPC1/2 protein and inhibit the entry of pyruvate into the mitochondria through its cold shock structural domain.

Analyzed by stable isotope 13C-labeled glucose and pyruvate tracer technology, the researchers found that downregulation of YBX1 protein in cells promoted the conversion of pyruvate in the mitochondria to produce citrate and alanine as well as oxaloacetate, which increased the cellular oxygen consumption rate and reduced the production of intracellular lactic acid, as well as the dependence of mitochondria on glutamine.

Finally, in tumor cells and mice xenografted with tumor cells, the researchers found that inhibition of the MPC1/2 complex by YBX1 did not alter the proliferative capacity of the cells, but rather promoted the metastatic capacity of the tumor cells.

More information: Huan Chen et al, Mitochondrial YBX1 promotes cancer cell metastasis by inhibiting pyruvate uptake, Life Metabolism (2023). DOI: 10.1093/lifemeta/load038

Provided by Frontiers Journals
Bridger-Teton National Forest's staff is proposing to authorize another 20 years of use by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department of two elk winter feedgrounds south of Grand Teton National Park.

In its recently released draft environmental impact statement, the Forest Service considered other options for the Dell Creek (35 acres) and Forest Park (100 acres) feedgrounds, including phasing them out over three years, ending the authorization immediately, or only allowing emergency feeding of elk in winter at the two sites.

Each alternative was weighed while considering the effects of chronic wasting disease transmission (CWD), effects on neighboring ranchers, the states hunting economy and the environment.

In calculating how closing the Dell and Forest Park feedgrounds would affect elk populations and transmission of chronic wasting disease, scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey said that under all of the alternatives elk populations would significantly decline.

The public has until Jan. 16 to comment.

Elk feedgrounds

Elk have utilized feedgrounds in northwest Wyoming since the early 1900s. In all, 22 elk feedgrounds are spread across western Wyoming, congregating an estimated 15,000 elk from December through April. Fourteen of the feedgrounds are on federal property.

An additional 8,000 elk are fed at the National Elk Refuge in Jackson, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The forest feedgrounds being analyzed are only two of eight on the Bridger-Teton National Forest. All of the forests permits allowing Wyoming Game and Fish to conduct winter feeding have or will expire in the next five years. Consequently, the agency chose not to assess closing all of the facilities.

The Dell Creek elk feedground, near Bondurant, Wyoming, in Sublette County, has been used since 1975. Over the 2020-21 winter, 529 elk attended the location for supplemental feed. Feeding typically begins at Dell Creek around Nov. 15.

Forest Park feedground is located in Lincoln County near Afton and has been in operation since 1979.

WGFD

As the Forest Service considers its options, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department is also mulling a new plan for managing elk feedgrounds. Although the agencys commission was supposed to address the issue at its November meeting, that has now been pushed back to January.

The agencys director has specifically stated that WGFDs plan is not a feedground closure plan. Instead, Brian Nesvik called it a road map to identify a responsible set of actions that will guide the manner in which all involved make decisions to deal with current and emerging challenges and conflicts.

At stake in these processes is a significant source of state income. Elk hunting license sales generated $11.47 million in 2021. Wildlife-related outfitter and tourism industries account for close to $800 million in expenditures and thousands of Wyoming jobs.

USGS modeling

In the USGS analysis, the scientists built models to estimate how the different alternatives might affect elk populations and disease transmission. Removing the two feedgrounds would reduce elk populations by 23% over 20 years, the scientists said, based on other areas of the state where there are no winter feedgrounds.

Most of that decline occurred within the first few years after a feedground ceases to operate, the scientists wrote in their analysis.

Using a panel of CWD experts, it was estimated transmission of disease at feedgrounds is up to four times higher as the animals are concentrated for several months. However, if other feedgrounds in the region remain open, the likelihood of CWD prevalence dropping is pretty small  about 3% for the Forest Park feedground if it were to be closed. In other words, continued feeding would lead to CWD prevalence of around 20%, compared to around 17% prevalence if it was closed.

In terms of disease-associated mortality, we predicted the closure of Forest Park and Dell Creek feedgrounds would reduce the total number of CWD mortalities by 9% in the Upper Green River HU (herd unit) and 26% in the Afton HU during the 20-year timespan, the analysis predicted.

If all eight of the Bridger-Teton forests feedgrounds were closed to elk feeding, CWD prevalence over 20 years is estimated at 12% to 14%, compared to 23% to 34% if they are all kept open.

We predicted feedground closures may result in immediate reductions in population size relative to alternatives that continue feeding (for example, continued feeding and emergency feeding alternatives); however, over longer periods of time, CWD-associated mortality leads to larger population reductions, the USGS scientists wrote. The no feeding alternative resulted in higher elk population sizes compared to the continued feeding alternative after about 10 years of implementation.

Another use of feedgrounds is to keep elk and cattle separated during the elk birthing season. Birthing material is considered a prime infectious agent from elk carrying brucellosis, a disease that causes pregnant animals to abort, which can also infect cattle. Without the feedgrounds, the likelihood of an elk aborting on private land may increase by 8% to 21%, the USGS said.

Comments on the Forest Services draft EIS can be submitted electronically through the project webpage or directly to https://cara.ecosystem-management.org/Public//CommentInput?Project=60949. Please identify your comments on the subject line as Elk Feedground Environmental Impact Statement.

For more information or to be placed on the mailing list, contact Randy Griebel at 307-739-5537.
Josh Bryson of Atlantic Richfield initially dismissed the idea of using the Berkeley Pit as a repository for wastes from historic mining and smelting in Butte.

Jim Keane, a former legislator in Butte, had pitched the idea during a crowded Oct. 17 public meeting in Centerville. That gathering focused on Atlantic Richfields consideration of a repository site near the community.

But the company clearly is warming to the Pit.

Last month, Patricia Gallery, president of Atlantic Richfield, co-signed a letter to the EPA that described the toxic Berkeley Pit as a potential recipient of wastes excavated from locations scheduled for remediation in Butte in the years ahead.

The locations are within the Butte Priority Soils Operable Unit, a federal Superfund site.

The Nov. 13 letter, co-signed by J. P. Gallagher, chief executive of Butte-Silver Bow County, notes that a 2020 Record of Decision Amendment for the Butte operable unit mentioned only two potential repository sites: Timber Butte, abandoned after stiff neighborhood opposition, and the Butte Mine Waste Repository, which has limited capacity.

The letter from Gallagher and Gallery essentially encouraged the EPA and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality to be flexible enough to consider other alternatives, which may include but are not limited to the Berkeley Pit.

On Tuesday, during an online remedial design meeting whose participants included Bryson, Nikia Greene from the EPA, and others, discussion included review of the cleanup status of locations within the Butte Priority Soils Operable Unit. Most remain in early phases of remedial design but all will eventually require a place to accept excavated wastes contaminated with heavy metals.

We cant do anything without a repository, Bryson said Tuesday.

He said preliminary scrutiny of legal, geochemical and technical criteria related to the Berkeley Pit seem positive.

Bryson has said that even if the Berkeley Pit is approved by the EPA, DEQ and others, Atlantic Richfield will need a land-based repository for materials inappropriate for dumping in the Pit. That category could include soils contaminated by petroleum products.

Greene responded to Brysons update about the Berkeley Pit by saying his input was to continue following the repository siting process.

Bryson has said one major challenge will be transporting contaminated materials from the locations within the Silver Bow Creek Corridor to a repository.

He has mentioned haul trucks, conveyor belts and, if the Pit is selected, the use of a slurry to pump material to its destination. One key goal is to reduce heavy truck traffic on Butte roads.

A slurry typically transports solids suspended in liquid, usually water.

The notoriously toxic Berkeley Pit, also a legacy of historic mining, holds about 49 billion gallons of contaminated, acidic water.

Dumping a total of 850,000 cubic yards or even 1 million cubic yards of mining and smelting wastes excavated and transported over a prolonged time period from sites in Butte would likely have little effect on the Pits water level, according to Ted Duaime, a Butte-based hydrogeologist with the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology.

From my perspective, the impact of that material on water level would be negligible, Duaime said last month.

Montana Resources, considered jointly responsible for the Berkeley Pit with Atlantic Richfield, has expressed support for using the Pit as a repository.

Christopher Wardell, a spokesman for EPA, weighed in Wednesday.

We agree that there is an urgency to getting the repository siting done, he said. At this time, we have not received a formal recommendation from the Repository Siting Committee for consideration.

In an earlier statement, Wardell said any repository will need to be protective of human health and the environment and comply with Superfund laws and site-specific documents.

Ultimately, Atlantic Richfield will need to submit a draft repository design for the EPAs approval.

For now, two potential repository sites seem to be in play, with one being the Berkeley Pit and the other being a land-based facility referred to by Atlantic Richfield as the Kelley Mine Area.

Many Centerville residents, who would live to the north and west of the Kelley Mine Area repository, have expressed concerns about potential negative effects from dumping mining and smelting wastes in proximity to their neighborhood. Groundwater from the repository site would drain into the Berkeley Pit.

Atlantic Richfield has pledged to forego dumping wastes in a polygon section closest to Centerville and to avoid dumping in the vicinity of the remnants of the historic neighborhood of Dublin Gulch.

Excavation of the Berkeley Pit began in 1955 as the Anaconda Co. moved from underground mining to open pit mining. In the years that followed, the Pit swallowed Butte neighborhoods like Meaderville, East Butte and McQueen.

Atlantic Richfield acquired the Anaconda Co. in 1977, a purchase that carried sweeping environmental liabilities under the federal Superfund statute that became law in December 1980.

In 1982, Atlantic Richfield announced suspension of Butte operations. And in April of that year, it shut down dewatering pumps. The Pit began to fill with acidic water.

Montana Resources Horseshoe Bend Water Treatment Plant and polishing plant treat water from the Berkeley Pit before it is discharged into Silver Bow Creek.

The Berkeley Pits dimensions are about 1.25 miles from east to west and about 1 mile north to south. The depth is about 1,000 feet.
Pakistan has issued an ultimatum to illegal migrants to leave the country or face detention and deportation. It says that national security concerns underlie its decision; it alleged that Afghan migrants carried out most of the suicide attacks in Pakistan over the past year. However, its forcible deportation of migrants is unlikely to secure it from terror attacks as deportees could turn their anger against Pakistan. A rise in militant recruitment and attacks can be expected. Pakistans attempt to secure itself by driving out migrants will deepen its insecurity.

BACKGROUND: On October 3, the Pakistani government announced that all illegal migrants must leave the country by November 1  following criticism it extended the deadline to December 31, 2023  or face arrest and forced deportation. Pakistans Interior Minister Sarfarz Bugti said that businesses and properties of those living illegally in Pakistan will be confiscated if they do not leave the country. Although the order applies to all illegal migrants in Pakistan, Afghans will bear the brunt as they comprise the vast majority of undocumented foreigners in Pakistan. Over 4 million Afghan migrants and refugees are living in Pakistan. Islamabad says that around 1.7 million of them are undocumented. An estimated 300,000 Afghans have returned home since the deportation order was announced. Meanwhile, Pakistani authorities have begun rounding up migrants and detaining them in temporary holding centers.

Pakistan has hosted Afghans since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979. For decades, the Afghan migrants were useful tools that Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence used to wield influence in Afghanistan; it was from among the Afghan refugee camps that they recruited fighters for the various mujahideen groups and the Taliban. So why is Pakistan now deporting Afghan migrants? Pakistan has sought to justify its deportation of undocumented Afghans on the grounds of national security. Without providing evidence, Bugti alleged that 14 of 24 suicide attacks over the past year were carried out by Afghan nationals. Pakistani analysts have said that the deportation move is aimed at ensuring long-term security and stability in Pakistan.

Pakistans mass expulsion of Afghans is also aimed at the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. Relations between the two have frayed seriously in recent years. Islamabad alleges that the Taliban is sheltering and supporting the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)s attacks in Pakistan. Despite its requests, the Taliban has not reined in the TTP. Non-cooperation of the Taliban regime with Islamabad is said to have prompted the Pakistani decision to deport Afghans. The deportation move is likely aimed at getting the Taliban regime to fall in line. The latter has accused Pakistan of pressuring Kabul to accept the Durand Line as the International Border.

Although Pakistan is not a signatory to either the 1951 Refugee Convention or the 1967 Protocol, it is still bound by a tripartite agreement it signed with Afghanistan and the UNHCR in 2003, which grants Afghan refugees rights and privileges, and protects them from forced repatriation. Islamabad is therefore violating commitments made under international law. The move has been strongly criticized by the United Nations and human rights groups, as well as the Taliban regime.

IMPLICATIONS: Pakistans mass expulsion of undocumented Afghan migrants will have far-reaching implications both domestically and regionally. Although Pakistani authorities have often described Afghan migrants as a drain on their economy and a strain on Pakistani resources, the abrupt exit of the migrants will adversely impact Pakistans economy. Afghans have participated robustly in the agriculture and construction sectors and the informal labor market. They have set up small businesses that contributed to local economies, invested in real estate and played a major role in the trucking business. Their sudden exit could impact property values, and disrupt supply chains and transportation of goods inside Pakistan and to Afghanistan. This, in turn, would increase the cost of commodities, adding to Pakistans economic woes.

Far from improving internal security, the deportation of undocumented Afghan migrants will make Pakistan more vulnerable to terror attacks. Anger with the Pakistani government is running high among the deportees as they feel ill-treated and humiliated by the crackdown. Since they were not given time to wind up their businesses, they are going home penniless. For some, Pakistan is their home as they have lived here for decades. Now they are being driven out. Hounded by the police, helpless and angry with their situation, these people will be vulnerable to extremist ideologies and methods. Radical and terrorist groups like the TTP will find many recruits among them. A surge in violent attacks in Pakistan can be expected in the coming months.

Across the border, in Afghanistan, an already dire situation could worsen as the return of hundreds of thousands of people will put the countrys already strained resources under immense pressure. A mix of anger and alienation could drive impoverished deportees into the waiting arms of groups like the Islamic State-Khorasan (ISK) that are fighting the Taliban regime. Many Afghans who are now being forced back to Afghanistan, went to Pakistan because they were fleeing Taliban persecution. They are now vulnerable to Taliban punishment.

Already fraying relations between Pakistan and the Taliban regime can be expected to worsen. A war of words has already broken out over the mass deportation of Afghans from Pakistan. Senior ministers in the Taliban regime have issued warnings. While Afghanistans interim Deputy Prime Minister Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai warned Islamabad to not force their hand to react over the move, Defense Minister Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob said that Pakistan should be ready to reap what it sows. The message from Kabul is that Pakistans expulsion of Afghans would not be without consequences for Pakistan. This could become manifested in Kabul deepening its support to the TTP. In recent months, Pakistani and Taliban forces have clashed frequently along their border, prompting Islamabad to close border crossings. Such clashes could grow in frequency and magnitude as bilateral relations unravel further.

Pakistans abject failure to deal with the TTP and to curb its attacks in Pakistan has prompted it to strike back in frustration at the Taliban regime by pushing back hundreds of thousands of Afghans to Afghanistan. But this is an ill-conceived decision as it is likely to boomerang against Islamabad. Far from improving Pakistans security and stability, the move will make it more vulnerable to terrorism and violence.

CONCLUSIONS: Pakistans decision to forcibly deport Afghan migrants is illegal, inhumane and illogical. The Pakistani establishment is using the Afghan refugees as scapegoats for its own security and governance failures. If its internal security is weak this is because of its flawed policies. The Afghans who took shelter in Pakistan are victims of decades of civil wars in Afghanistan, wars which were partly fueled by the ISI. These migrants were used by the ISI to further Pakistans goals in Afghanistan. They are now being pushed back and could be further victimized at home. Forcibly pushing back the migrants is an ill-conceived policy as it will only worsen the problem  terrorism at home  that Pakistan has set out to address.

AUTHOR'S BIO: Dr. Sudha Ramachandran is an independent researcher and journalist based in India. She writes on Asian political and security issues. Her articles have been published in The Diplomat, China Brief, etc. She can be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
Muscatine County's Board of Supervisors has approved allowing the Muscatine County Historic Preservation Commission to apply for a grant to do a fruit and vegetable industry survey.

The supervisors also heard about some of Muscatine County Historic Preservation Commission's projects at the board's Tuesday meeting.

Commission member Lynn Pruitt said one of the fruit and vegetable industry is one of the industries that allowed Muscatine County to form in the manner it did. He said the commission hopes to document how the industries developed.

Pruitt said the commission hopes to get an Iowa Certified Local Government (CLG) grant of $11,800. There would have to be a cash match from the county of $1,361. The match would be paid out of the commission fund.

The fruit and vegetable activity in the county has diminished over the last 20 years, Supervisor Jeff Sorenson said.

The commission also asked the supervisors for permission to support the City of Muscatine Historic Preservation Commissions survey to document the Underground Railroad and the Freedom trail in Muscatine County. The city commissions grant application requires a letter of support from the supervisors.

Pruitt explained fugitive slaves were moving north and trying to get to a place of safety and many came through Iowa and Muscatine County. There were safe houses in the area.

Pruitt commented the railroad depot in West Liberty had been used to help slaves move north. He said the State of Iowa has identified eight significant historic sites in Muscatine County that were part of the Underground Railroad.

The supervisors approved the letter.

Pruitt also updated the supervisors on the projects the commission is pursuing.

He said the commission has installed signage on country schoolhouses. He also said that the Fairport Fish Hatchery and the Benjamin and Mary Nichols Home had been approved for the National Register of Historic Places. He said the commission is still trying to raise funds to build a pavilion at the hatchery to commemorate historic events that happened there.

He also said the commission hopes to host the Preserve Iowa Summit in Muscatine County in 2025.
The latest government data reveals that the Hustler Fund has distributed more than Ksh 41 billion to over 22 million Kenyans since its establishment. This marks a notable increase from Ksh 39 million reported just last week, as a growing number of Kenyans continued to borrow from the revolving fund, which has garnered both support and criticism.

The State Department of Micro, Medium, and Small Enterprises (MSMES) has also announced plans to establish an MSME fund to assist small and medium traders.

Susan Auma, the PS overseeing MSMES, noted an upward trend in the number of Kenyans accessing loans from the Hustler Fund.

Addressing concerns of mass defaults, she played down such allegations, emphasizing that the Hustler fund has been instrumental in empowering millions, particularly low-wage earners, in bolstering their small businesses.

As of the start of this week, the amount disbursed to Kenyans from the Hustlers funds has risen to Ksh 41B with over 22 million people benefiting, she said.

During the ongoing MSME workshop in Naivasha, the PS voiced her concern about attacks on small-scale traders by county government officers. She specifically highlighted Nairobi as the most affected, citing the criminalization of hawking.

The national government, she mentioned, has initiated discussions with the top leadership to address this issue.

We have seen cases where hawking has been criminalized and we are working for a win-win situation for both the county and the hawkers, she said.

Auma at the same time announced that the government has initiated the development of an MSMEs fund specifically tailored for the informal sector, which currently employs over 16 million individuals.

Loans of up to Ksh 1 million

She highlighted that the fund would provide loans of up to Ksh 1 million, with the initial phase focusing on groups as a strategy to bolster support for Micro, Medium, and Small Enterprises.

We plan to digitize the issuance of loans to the Micro, Medium, and Small Enterprises by working with county governments that have a similar entity, she said.

Moses Banda, an MSME advisor from State House, emphasized that despite employing over 16.5 million Kenyans, the sector has often been overlooked. He stated that, by the conclusion of the three-day retreat, they anticipate formulating a roadmap outlining how the MSME sector can receive increased assistance from the State.

The Micro, Medium, and Small Enterprises is one of the top employers in the country but it has been largely ignored and forgotten and hence the need to give it more support, he said.
Migori police have launched a search for a man who fled after reportedly killing his teenage daughter for spending a night at her boyfriends residence.

The 17-year-old girl, a Form Four student, reportedly left their home after dinner, unbeknownst to her father.

Upon discovering her absence, the father searched for her in Amoyo village during the night. Failing to locate her, he sat in the compound and waited until she returned around 4:30 am.

The father flogged her and left her unconscious, she was rushed to a local hospital in the morning where she was pronounced dead on Tuesday morning. The father fled after it was reported to police, Nyatike subcounty police boss Dorothy Migarusha said.

The incident occurred in Amoyo village, Got Kachola ward. Migarusha mentioned that upon learning of the girls demise and the subsequent police alert, the father chose to flee.

The police have notified elders and local administration in nearby Tanzania to assist in apprehending the suspect.
A court in Mombasa has granted permission for the detention of a woman who threw her baby into the Indian Ocean.

The accused reportedly tossed her 8-month-old infant into the Indian Ocean at Likoni Ferry in Mombasa County on Sunday.

According to the prosecutions application, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) had initially requested a 14-day detention period for the hearing-impaired woman pending investigations.

The requested duration was intended to provide the investigating officer with ample time to collect additional evidence before formally charging the woman.

As outlined in an affidavit sworn by Police Constable Allan Kirago, the police said they were waiting for the medical report from doctors to determine the sufficiency of evidence in the case.

However, Mombasa Chief Magistrate Alex Ithuku raised concerns about the necessity of a 14-day detention period.

Ithuku allowed the officers a seven-day duration to conduct a medical examination on the suspect.

The prosecution informed the court that the child had been admitted and was currently receiving treatment at the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital (CGTRH).
Wakadinali rap group member, Domani Munga, has announced a hiatus from performances during the festive season citing health concerns.

Munga reassured his fans that he plans to make a comeback in January, although the exact date was not disclosed.

In a post on his X page, Munga conveyed his apologies, mentioning, Due to my health issue, I wont be around until January. I sincerely apologize to my fans. I am taking a break.

During Mungas temporary absence, the remaining members of the Wakadinali Crew will proceed with performances throughout the festive season, seizing the opportunity presented by the numerous events scheduled in December for fans to relish.

Wakadinali has experienced a prosperous year, marked by substantial music streams and growing popularity.

The group was the most searched artiste in Kenya on Spotify, and their album Ndani ya Cockpit 3 secured the 10th position as the most streamed album.

Domani Mungas decisiom to take a break resonates with a trend observed in international artists, including Nigerian superstar Rema, who similarly declared a hiatus from December shows to prioritize recovery.

Renowned for his global hit Calm Down, Rema assured his fans of his comeback in 2024, pledging to resume delivering exceptional performances after the break.
St. Helena city officials say the levee along the Napa River is ready for another rainy season, even as residents push for more aggressive maintenance.

In addition to monthly inspections by city staff, St. Helena hired Mead & Hunt, the engineering firm that designed the 12-year-old levee, to inspect it and offer recommendations on its upkeep.

Joe Leach, the city public works director, said engineers from Mead & Hunt inspected the levee in mid-November and will report to the City Council in late January or early February.

As far as we know, there isnt anything that requires immediate attention, Leach said.

Residents are concerned about erosion, an offset in the floodwall protecting Vineyard Valley Mobile Home Park, and visible holes left by rodents  squirrels, gophers or both  burrowing into the side of the levee.

The most recent monthly inspection posted on the city's website, from October, didn't report any rodent problems but noted a 1 1/2-inch offset and early signs of erosion on the floodwall, as well as deteriorating and cracking joint material.

Leach said Mead & Hunts full report will take a closer look at those issues and recommend how to address them.

In October a petition urging St. Helena to expedite inspection and repairs before the rainy season collected more than 150 signatures in three days.

Vineyard Valley resident Pat Dell said she's not alone in wanting a full report on Mead & Hunts inspection, before heavy rains begin.

We dont know whats happening, Dell said. Id like to know what the city is going to do. Are they going to fill the holes?

Vineyard Valley resident Eve Breckenridge, who walks the levee every day, has noticed rodent activity on the side of the levee in two places  one near a grove of oak trees and another near willow trees close to the Napa River.

She said she doesnt have any agenda when it comes to the levee, but its clear that rodents are drawn to places with close access to trees and water.

Leach said Clark Pest Control conducts monthly pest management along the levee, but its up to city staff to fill the holes after the rodents have been eliminated. They typically do so in the spring after the rainy season is over.

While he hasnt seen Mead & Hunts full report, Leach said engineers determined the holes to be fairly superficial because the rodents start encountering harder-packed soil before they've dug too deeply.

An extensive network of burrows can create a Swiss-cheese effect that weakens a levee, but there's no evidence that's happening here.

Mead & Hunt's preliminary read is that theres nothing that the rodents are doing that would impact structural integrity of the levee, Leach said. Theyll bring some recommendations on how to manage the vegetation near the levee thats attracting the rodents.

Bonnie Schoch and Eric Sklar, who served on the council that authorized the levee, have urged the current council to prioritize levee maintenance.

This inspection needs to be done ASAP because  theres a lot of maintenance that needs to be done before the rainy season, Schoch told the council on Oct. 24. If we dont maintain it now, it will cost more, much more in the future.

Before building the levee, the city promised to maintain it, Sklar told the council.

Its clear the city has not fulfilled its commitment of regular inspections and regular repairs, which means were behind the curve already, Sklar said. Lets get it fixed.

St. Helena's potential liability for the levees failure became a point of contention during this years hearings about the Hunter housing project.

A memo from City Attorney Ethan Walsh found that the city wouldnt be held responsible for the levees failure unless plaintiffs prove the levee failed due to unreasonable design, construction or maintenance.

The Hunter project is years away from being fully entitled and built, but some residents who live behind the levee are already feeling uneasy.

Theyre not doing their due diligence, Grace Kistner said.

The levee was designed to protect against a 200-year flood. Floodwaters have never even neared the base of the levee, even during the heaviest atmospheric rivers of recent years.

Photos: The aftermath of deadly flooding in Libya
The man who was imprisoned in connection to the kidnapping and rape of a 9-year-old Napa girl more than three decades ago has been denied parole, according to local prosecutors.

Roberto Malimban Antonio, 71, was refused early release Nov. 28 in a state parole hearing held by videoconference from Valley State Prison, the office of Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley said in a news release. Malimban Antonio has been held in the Chowchilla prison since 2011, when he pleaded guilty to possessing child sex abuse materials and failing to register as a sex offender following an assault on a girl in 1992.

Malimban Antonio was sentenced to 50 years to life in state prison in a plea deal that dismissed charges of rape and kidnapping. However, California voters 2016 passage of Proposition 57 allowed him to seek parole earlier because his crimes were not deemed violent under the law, the District Attorneys Office said.

Its never easy for a victim of rape to testify against their attacker as it often forces them to relive this horrible event in their lives and be re-traumatized by it, Deputy District Attorney Kecia Lind said in the statement. It took a lot of bravery and resolve from the survivor to provide testimony against Mr. Antonio, and we are pleased with the Board of Parole Hearings decision to deny him parole as it will protect the public from a dangerous child predator.

The prison sentence stems from an attack on July 23, 1992, when a girl was lured to a strangers car at Mount George Elementary School, forced into the trunk, driven to a house and raped, according to court documents. She was then taken to Solano Community College and released.

Law enforcement officers examined the girl and collected biological evidence but could not identify her attacker with the technologies available in the 1990s, the Napa Valley Register previously reported. Authorities finally arrested Malimban Antonio in Vallejo in March 2010, after his DNA was matched with DNA from the Napa case using more modern technology.

Malimban Antonios genetic record was on file because he was convicted of lewd acts with children in 1986 in San Francisco, and in 1987 in Solano County, according to past Register reporting and the district attorneys statement Tuesday.

Investigators in 2010 found child sex abuse images on Malimban Antonios computer, and also learned he had registered as a sex offender using an address where he was not living, according to the news release.

In March 2011, Malimban Antonio accepted a plea agreement that dropped rape and kidnapping charges and prevented his accuser from having to testify about the sexual assault, according to the District Attorneys Office. The deal blocked him from appealing the sentence.
A Napa County Superior Court judge decided the Smith-Madrone and Summit Lake wineries cant join the legal tussle between Napa County and Hoopes winery over the countys winery rules.

Judge Mark Boessenecker had previously issued a tentative ruling that would have allowed the two wineries to join on the Hoopes side. Smith-Madrone and Summit Lake contend the outcome of the case will affect them and many other wineries as well.

But Napa Countys attorneys changed Boesseneckers mind by pointing to a 1939 case involving not wine, but milk.

Some milk distributors wanted to join in on a milk rules case involving Jersey Maid Milk Products. The state Supreme Court ruled they didnt have a direct interest, given the judgment wouldnt actually be binding on them.

Boessenecker saw parallels with todays Napa County case. Smith-Madrone and Summit Lake have an interest in the precedent set by a Hoopes decision, rather than the direct effect of the decision, he wrote in his final Nov. 28 ruling.

He also wrote that allowing the two wineries to join would complicate an already complicated case.

Were disappointed, obviously, with the ruling, Stuart Smith of Smith-Madrone said Monday. ... Be that as it may, we are reviewing our options and trying to decide how to move forward. Were not quite sure of that at the moment.

Summit Lake winery couldnt be reached for comment on Monday.

The attempt by Smith-Madrone and Summit Lake to join the Hoopes case received widespread local publicity. Owners of the three wineries at one point held a Zoom news conference attended by several regional news outlets.

Napa County sued Hoopes winery in 2022. It alleged the winery near Yountville hosted tasting visitors and events not allowed under its 1984 county approval, among other allegations. Hoopes would have to seek county permission to continue the visitations.

The countys lawsuit talked of protecting the countys agricultural preserve, which since 1968 has set aside most rural land outside of cities for farming. Even Napa Countys most famous wineries are limited in what they can do, it said.

Hoopes winery responded by filing a countercomplaint. It alleged the countys winery rules are unintelligible and vague and that some are unconstitutional.

It is impossible to operate a business when the goalposts keep moving, Lindsay Hoopes said in September. This is an enormous problem, but everyone is too afraid to come forward.

Smith-Madrone and Summit Lake winery said they face issues similar to those facing Hoopes. Both wineries claim visitation rights greater than that shown on a Napa County winery database. They mentioned potentially having to ask the county for rights they believe they already possess.

The two wineries said there are issues raised by the Hoopes case common to small wineries established before the countys 1990 winery definition ordinance. That argument didnt prove enough to get them added to the Hoopes case against the county.

But Boesseneckers ruling mentioned a form of pseudo-intervention. The wineries could file amicus curiae briefs in the Hoopes matter, which would in effect be offering information that the court could consider.

We may look at this, Smith said. Thats having maybe your toe in the water, as opposed to actually being in the water.

PHOTOS: Walt Ranch, Napa's newest nature preserve Walt Ranch 1 Walt Ranch 2 Walt Ranch 3 Walt Ranch 4 Walt Ranch 5 Walt Ranch 6 Walt Ranch 7 Walt Ranch 8 Walt Ranch 9 Walt Ranch 10 Walt Ranch 11 Walt Ranch 12 Walt Ranch 13 Walt Ranch 14 Walt Ranch 15 Walt Ranch 16 Walt Ranch 17
As news spread this week that Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines intend to merge, many in the Bay Area were left to wonder: Could a consolidation bring negative impacts for customers of two airlines focused mainly on the West Coast  especially in the form of higher fares to the Hawaiian Islands?

Not necessarily, according to at least one Bay Area travel industry analyst.

And in fact, the proposed merger could actually benefit travelers in a number of ways, said Henry Harteveldt of Atmosphere Research, a San Francisco travel consultancy.

It's true that fare increases are "a risk you can't ignore," Harteveldt acknowledged. However, he said, "Airlines are extremely price-competitive and they know what the others are charging. If one airline perceives others' fares are too high, it could lower its fares."

Additionally, other airlines that serve Hawaii could add flights, and airlines that don't already fly to the islands could start, increasing competition and potentially reducing fares.

None of the Bay Area's three international airports  San Francisco, Oakland and Mineta San Jose  are capacity-constrained and prohibited from adding new flights or airlines, he noted.

When lower-cost airlines PSA and AirCal were sold and shut down in the late 1980s, Harteveldt said, they made way for Southwest Airlines to expand at the three Bay Area airports.

Executives at Alaska and Hawaiian, both focused mainly on the West Coast, announced the merger Sunday. Seattle-based Alaska plans to purchase Hawaiian, headquartered in Honolulu, for $1.9 billion.

While they would operate under a single license and share a combined fleet of 365 planes, both would retain their names, the airlines said in a release Sunday. Alaska would remain the nation's fifth-largest airline but would grow its route offerings, adding Hawaiian's international flights to Australia and Asia.

Other upsides to a merger would be a single frequent flier plan for the two airlines, Harteveldt said. Hawaiian customers would gain access to the Oneworld alliance of airlines, which can give international travelers benefits including access to more airport lounges.

Another potential benefit for the Bay Area could be that one of its three international airports could become a bigger hub for the merged Alaska-Hawaiian airlines, Harteveldt said, meaning more flights from the region.

"Up and down the West Coast, this merger makes Alaska a bigger airline that could better compete with major airlines like Southwest," he said.

Anyone worried about the proposed merger causing disruptions to upcoming travel plans can rest easy.

For the merger to take off, Alaska and Hawaiian need the approval of the federal Department of Justice, which will consider the competitive impacts and could reject the consolidation. Even if the merger is approved, Harteveldt and other experts expect the process would take at least nine months and probably as many as 18. Then the difficult process of combining the airlines and their operations would begin, Harteveldt said, taking another 18 to 24 months.

"Nothing in this announcement means anything will change anytime soon," he said.

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Russian senators regularly communicate with their Armenian counterparts; there is no question of freezing relations. Chair of the Russian Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs, Grigory Karasin, told this to RIA Novosti.

Answering the aforesaid news agency's question whether there are bilateral relations between the legislators of Russia and Armenia, Karasin stated: "Of course. There are very active relations, both direct and via video channels, and through embassies, regularly."

In response to the clarifying question whether there was any talk about a possible freezing of relations between the lawmakers of the two countries, the Russian senator emphasized that "we do not talk, and we do not think about it."

"We are thinking about making [our] relations meaningful and active," he added.

At the same time, Karasin stressed that the decisions of the Armenian delegation not to come to the meetings of the CSTO Parliamentary Assembly (PA) are perceived "with a feeling of regret."

Armenia's position that the country remains a CSTO member is also taken into account, he added.

"But such a decision [i.e. not coming to the CSTO PA meetings] naturally causes a feeling of regret. We would like them to participate," concluded the Russian lawmaker.

Earlier, the spokesperson of the National Assembly (NA) of Armenia, Tsovinar Khachatryan, announced that NA speaker Alen Simonyan will not attend the external session and the 16th plenary session of the CSTO PA Council to be held in Moscow on December 19.
A dark purple and green building with yellow accents and drive-thru lanes is believed to be a future CosMcs site, along Weber Road near Boughton Road, Dec. 5., 2023, in Bolingbrook. (Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune)

The week after photos of its new spinoff CosMcs in suburban Bolingbrook surfaced on social media, McDonalds officially announced the concept at an investor day in Chicago Wednesday.

CosMcs, named after a McDonalds character from the 1980s whom CEO Chris Kempczinski described as part alien, part surfer, part robot, will be a 10-store, small-format pilot concept focused around specialty beverages and coffees. A CosMcs in Bolingbrook will mark a soft opening Friday, the company said. The remaining stores will open in Texas by the end of 2024.

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Kempczinski said Wednesday the fast-food giant had identified specialty beverages and coffees as a fast-growing area in which the company was underindexed.

We cant capitalize (on) this in our existing restaurants because of the complexity that customized beverages would bring to our kitchens, Kempczinski said.

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Offerings at CosMcs will include specialty coffees such as a SMores Cold Brew and a Turmeric Spiced Latte, the company said. Other drinks include new specialty teas and lemonades that consumers will be able to customize with additions like boba or vitamin C shots. New food offerings include a spicy queso sandwich, pretzel bites and desserts such as caramel fudge brownies and sundaes.

Kempczinski emphasized the new concept was a pilot and said the company would be looking at results from the test stores for at least a year.

Let me emphasize again, were talking about 10 stores, he told investors Wednesday. So lets not get too excited about it.

Prior to the official announcement Wednesday, photos of the CosMcs menu had surfaced on social media. X user Iman Jalali posted photos of a beverage-heavy CosMcs menu on the social media site, which was formerly known as Twitter.

McDonalds is launching a new concept and I was just there and grabbed pics of a whole new menu of items never been offered before



The concept is being launched in Bollingrbook, IL and its called CosMcs



Its not open yet and there was a full team of actors in the drive thru pic.twitter.com/Z64g4ykZXT  Iman Jalali (@Stealx) November 29, 2023

Kempczinksi first teased CosMcs during a second-quarter earnings call this summer. He revealed scant details about the spinoff at the time, describing it as a small-format concept with all the DNA of McDonalds but its own unique personality.

Growth in the fast-food giants digital and delivery business has paved the way for it to take advantage of smaller-format stores as real estate opportunities, Kempczinski said this summer.

Youre now able to look at real estate sites that previously would have been sort of off-limits to us, he said. Those become opportunities.

Prior to its investor update Wednesday, McDonalds announced it planned to open about 10,000 new stores by the end of 2027 for a total of 50,000 stores worldwide, which the company said would mark its fastest period of growth ever. The majority of the new stores will be abroad, Chief Financial Officer Ian Borden said Wednesday.

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The company also announced a partnership with Google Cloud, saying it planned to use Cloud technology and AI to make improvements in areas like its mobile app and self-serve kiosks.

A dark purple and green building with yellow accents and drive-thru lanes along Weber Road near Boughton Road will be a CosMcs, shown here Dec. 5, 2023, in Bolingbrook. (Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune)

Claire Conaghan, associate director of publications at Chicago-based food industry market research firm Datassential, said McDonalds wasnt launching CosMcs because they arent succeeding in other parts of their business.

I think its simply another opportunity for them, said Conaghan, speaking before Wednesdays official announcement.

The fast-food giant posted net income of $2.3 billion in the third quarter, with same-store sales in the U.S. up 8.1%.

Still, McDonalds saw a slight dip in traffic during the quarter, Kempczinski said during an October earnings call. The company had specifically seen consumers making less than $45,000 a year pull back, he said.

The smaller scale of the CosMcs concept allows McDonalds to be more playful with its CosMcs menu than it can be with its main menu, Conaghan said. Its hard to introduce something like a Popping Pear Slush, she said, referring to one of the CosMcs menu items.

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Its hard to guarantee youll have enough popping pears for the entire McDonalds universe, while its a little easier to do it for one or two stores, she said.
The European Union calls on Azerbaijan to protect and guarantee the rights of Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians, including the right of displaced persons to return to their homes. Josep Borrell, the European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, stated this in response to a written question of an MP, reports the RFE/RL Armenian Service.

Borrell emphasized that Brussels calls also for a permanent international presence on the ground, and that the property and cultural heritage of Karabakh Armenians must be protected.

The EU foreign policy chief recalled that the European Union condemned Azerbaijan's military attack against Nagorno-Karabakh in September, and criticized the human casualties and the mass emigration of Karabakh Armenians due to this violence.

Although cooperation with Azerbaijan in the energy sector contributes to the EU's policy of diversification of energy sources, the European Union organizations continue to observe the situation on the ground and warn against further escalation of the situation, including against the territory of Armenia, Borrell said, adding that the ultimate goal of the EU is to advance a lasting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Speaking at the 25th EU-NGO Forum for Human Rights, the EU foreign policy chief spoke also about the Karabakh conflict.

Josep Borrell stated that in recent years more and more conflicts are resolved by force, and pointed to the actions of Azerbaijan as an example. The outcome of the long-frozen conflict, which he would not say was resolved, but was decided by military intervention which forced 150 thousand people to be displaced within a week, Borrell said.

In one week, 150 thousand people had to leave their homes and flee. And the international community expressed regret, expressed concern, sent humanitarian aid, but everything happened with the use of force, said the EU foreign policy chief.
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A tragic incident occurred Monday in Lori Province of Armenia, shamshyan.com reports.

At around 9:40am on that day, a call was received from the Vanadzor Medical Center to the operational control center of the Lori provincial police department informing that at around 8:20am, a person was ambulanced from the Gloria Sewing Factory of Vanadzor to the aforesaid hospital, and he had died suddenly in the hospital.

Doctors told the police and investigators that the deceased was diagnosed with "collapse, sudden cardiac death," which had become the cause of his sudden death.

Also, the police and investigators identified the deceased as Indian national Mohammad Aylasin.

Criminal proceedings have been launched at the investigation department.

External examination found no traces of violence on the body.
Views of the Chicago River and downtown are seen from the 14th-floor seating area and office space at the new Salesforce Tower, Dec. 5, 2023. The 57-floor building's facade is made up of over 16,000 individual panes of glass. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)

Five years in the works, Salesforce celebrated the grand opening of its 57-story, 1.2 million-square-foot Chicago tower Tuesday, a bold new addition to the citys skyline rising up amid a slumping office market.

Located along the Chicago River at the Wolf Point site near the Merchandise Mart, Salesforce Tower features a shimmering glass facade with 16,000 individual panes, and is one of the few major office buildings to be developed in the city during the pandemic.

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The San Francisco-based software giant occupies about 360,000 square feet of the tower across more than a dozen floors, with collaborative and social spaces designed to lure employees back to the office. Amenities include communal kitchens, expanded lounges, hybrid meeting spaces and glassed-in focus pods for one-on-one time and phone calls.

An employee takes photos of guests and other employees in the first floor entrance and lobby area of the new Salesforce Tower at 333 West Wolf Point in Chicago, on Dec. 5, 2023. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)

The top two floors of Salesforce Tower are dedicated Ohana floors, where employees can enjoy the views from the citys 14th-tallest skyscraper and unwind during the day. At night, the space will be available for nonprofit events and other activities.

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Salesforce leases 500,000 square feet of the building, but put more than 25% of the space up for sublease before employees began working there in May. The company has nearly 2,200 employees based in Chicago and has always had a hybrid work environment, a Salesforce spokesperson said Tuesday.

Salesforce Towers grand opening comes as the broader Chicago office market remains in a deep slump, with companies continuing to shed space in the post-pandemic hybrid work environment. Vacancy in the citys central business district, including direct and sublease availability, hit a record 28.2% during the third quarter, according to data from real estate services firm Avison Young.

Chicago office buildings are at 52.5% of pre-pandemic occupancy levels, according to the latest weekly report by Kastle Systems.
U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, recently sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urging him to remain focused on holding Azerbaijani president Ilham Aliyev regime accountable for ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh and to continue the United States support for Armenians who were forced to flee the region, informed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

While terrible tragedies elsewhere have diverted the worlds attention, I write to ensure that we remain focused on holding the Aliyev regime accountable for its brazen campaign of ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh and continue to support Armenians who were forced to flee.

As you are well aware, in September 2023, President Ilham Aliyev launched a military campaign that drove around 100,000 Armenians out of their homes, and during which Azerbaijani forces reportedly killed and wounded civilians. These attacks were not only a clear violation of the November 2020 ceasefire but also reportedly involved heinous atrocities.

Prior to the military invasion, Azerbaijan was effectively imposing a humanitarian blockade on the people of Nagorno-Karabakh, preventing the delivery of food, medicine, and basic humanitarian supplies. Beyond the blockade, the State Departments 2022 Human Right Report cites numerous reports of Azerbaijani forces committing extrajudicial killings of Armenians. Furthermore, both before and after September, Azerbaijan has continued its well-documented practice of seizing and destroying Armenian cultural property in areas it controls, in further pursuit of its efforts to erase Armenian history and culture.

While Azerbaijan thus far is abiding by the terms of the September 20, 2023 ceasefire, I remain deeply concerned that Azerbaijan could take further military action to achieve additional political gains, particularly in regards to the so-called Zangezour corridor.

I strongly encourage you to continue to work with international partners and organizations to support accountability for the Aliyev regimes actions. Specifically, I would like to know what steps you have taken and plan to take regarding the following:

. Supporting efforts to substantiate and collect evidence regarding the Aliyev regimes potential commission of war crimes and other atrocities;

. Holding Azerbaijani officials accountable for any such acts, including the application of potential sanctions and visa restrictions;

. Urging appropriate international justice tribunals to pursue accountability for Azerbaijani officials;

. Making clear to Azerbaijan that aggression against its neighbors is unacceptable;

. Supporting Armenians displaced in the September 2023 assault;

It is critically important that the United States continues our commitment to prevent the commission of atrocities, protect vulnerable civilians, and hold those responsible for atrocities accountable for their actions. We must send a clear message to those who believe they can operate with impunity, notes, in particular, the aforesaid letter by US Senator Ben Cardin.
Russia welcomes the meeting between the representatives of Armenia and Azerbaijan at the border, stated Maria Zakharova, the official representative of the Russian foreign ministry, on Wednesday.

"During this meeting, the parties agreed on methodological and organizational issues, preparing for the start of practical work on border delimitation. From our [i.e. Russia] side, we are ready to provide all assistance during the direct border delimitation work. This implies the provision of necessary cartographic materials; in particular, this was confirmed yesterday by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during a meeting with his Azerbaijani counterpart," said Zakharova.

"Regarding the tripartite working group for unblocking [regional] transport communications, which was co-chaired by the deputy prime ministers of the Russian Federation, Armenia and Azerbaijan, as we had noted earlier, significant progress has been made within it. If there were a political will on both sides, could we quickly complete the work of agreeing on specific projects and carry out substantive activities? We believe that further delay in reaching agreements within the framework of the tripartite working group will work against the interests of the countries of the region, including Armenia," she added.

Speaking about the peace treaty expected to be signed between Armenia and Azerbaijan, Zakharova reminded again that Russia sent invitations to these countries for a meeting within the framework of multilateral events in Moscow and third countries.

"Baku has always confirmed our willingness to hold negotiation; unfortunately, we cannot say the same about our Armenian partners. Perhaps they believe that their new advisers from Washington, Brussels, and Paris will be able to offer something more interesting and effective. I don't know. I believe you always have to look at previous experience and the experience of your neighbors. We all saw what the meetings in the EU, including in Prague and Brussels, led to. Perhaps the Armenian people are not fully aware because they are not informed about everything... So that the situation does not repeat itself because now, under the guise of best friends, they will recommend something to Armenia, which will later lead to another surprise...

It is at the instigation of the West that the rights and security issues of Karabakh Armenians are not mentioned in any way in the relevant documents. Does anyone remember that now that they want to trust western advisors again? But if these points were stated, then now there would be no questions about what to do for the people who left their homes, relying on the Yerevan authorities, who promised them a lotagain at the suggestion of the Westerners.

But their rights were neither clarified nor discussedagain at the instigation of the Westerners. How much and where do the Westerners have to prove themselves, so that it becomes clear that they will never act in the interest of the people of other countries?" concluded Zakharova.
The absence of the Armenian delegation at the session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO PA) will not affect the decision to create a unified air defense system, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Aleksandr Pankin told reporters.

"Their physical absence from participation does not greatly slow down the processes of agreement on the adoption of collective documents by other member states, which they join in many cases," Pankin said, answering the question whether Armenia's non-participation will affect the CSTO plans to create a unified air defense system.

It became known earlier that the speaker of the Armenian parliament, Alen Simonyan will not attend the external session and the 16th plenary session of the CSTO PA Council to be held in Moscow on December 19.
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Male members of Generation Z in the U.S. are more interested in STEM fields than their female counterparts, according to the latest data from the Gallup and Walton Family Foundation Voices of Gen Z survey. When asked about their interest in occupations related to life and physical science, technology, engineering, and math, 85% of males born between 1997 and 2011 state they are very or somewhat interested in at least one of these sectors, compared with 63% of females.

The fields with the largest gender gaps (28 percentage points each) in reported interest are engineering and computers and technology. Males are also 10 percentage points more likely than females to be interested in math careers. Interest in life and physical science careers is essentially the same for females and males (33% vs. 31%).

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These findings are based on a Gallup Panel web survey, conducted Sept. 11-19, 2023, with 2,006 U.S. Gen Z youth aged 12 to 26.

Gen Z Females Low STEM Confidence a Driver of Gender Gap

Among Gen Z youth who note they are not interested in pursuing a STEM career, 60% say it is because they dont enjoy STEM and 48% because they would not be good at those roles. While young males and females are about equally likely to say they dont enjoy STEM, confidence in ones own STEM ability differs significantly by gender.

Gen Z females are nearly 20 points more likely than males to say they are not interested in a STEM career because they dont think they would be good at it. By contrast, males are more likely to say they dont know enough about STEM careers.

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These findings align with previous Gallup studies about computer science education, which found that female students are much less likely than male students to express confidence in their ability to learn computer science and to think that computer science is important for them to learn.

Gen Z Females Exposed to Fewer STEM Topics in School

Female Gen Z youth report learning about fewer technical STEM concepts in their middle and high school coursework than their male counterparts do. More males report learning about six of the seven STEM concepts surveyed.

There are especially large gaps in exposure to computer science and physics concepts. Fifty-four percent of males report learning in school about computer programming/coding -- skills that underlie roles in fields as diverse as technology, manufacturing and cybersecurity -- compared with 39% of females. Furthermore, 44% of males say they have learned about electrical circuits -- a concept foundational to careers in electrical engineering, as well as the development of semiconductors and batteries -- compared with 30% of females.

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This difference in exposure is not necessarily a result of schools more heavily encouraging males than females to pursue STEM. Indeed, nearly equal percentages of Gen Z males and females say their schools encouraged them to pursue STEM careers, provided opportunities to learn about STEM careers and supported participation in STEM-related extracurriculars. Rather, as has been noted in the research literature, this disparity in exposure is likely a product of females being less inclined to take STEM-related coursework and join extracurricular activities that prepare students for careers in technical fields such as physics and computer science.

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Implications

Women make up half of the total college-educated workforce in the U.S. but only 34% of the workforce in science, technology, engineering and math sectors. Women are especially underrepresented in fast-growing STEM fields such as computer science. The findings from this study show that despite much investment in STEM education -- including in initiatives to reduce disparities in STEM participation by gender -- significant gender gaps persist.

The underrepresentation of girls in STEM has significant implications for society as a whole. At a fundamental level, increasing girls interest in STEM and their representation in high-growth STEM sectors is critical for strengthening the U.S. economy, as bolstering the pool of qualified candidates for in-demand STEM roles and reducing the gender pay gap can promote economic growth.

More work must be done to increase girls exposure to STEM, cultivate their STEM learning throughout secondary and postsecondary schooling, and remove barriers that hinder their pursuit of STEM careers.

Learn more from the Gallup and Walton Family Foundations Voices of Gen Z survey.

To stay up to date with the latest Gallup News insights and updates, follow us on X.

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SIU sitcom expert: Force of Lears achievements continues to be felt

by Pete Rosenbery

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Legendary television producer Norman Lear helped bring groundbreaking change to how Americans viewed the nation and themselves, says Walter Metz, a cinema professor in Southern Illinois University Carbondales School of Media Arts.

Long before faddish contemporary notions of world-building and cinematic universes, Lear conjured a vast sociological nexus of television narratives to interrogate life in the United States in the 1970s, Metz said. In triangulated tandem with M*A*S*H (Larry Gelbart) and The Mary Tyler Moore Show (Grant Tinker), Lear's All in the Family (CBS, 1971-1979) serves as the pivot toward what scholars would later describe as, quality television, a sophisticated form of storytelling in which a genre such as the sitcom was reinvented to grapple with great nuance the collision of political ways of being in the world.

Media availability

Walter Metz, is the author of three books: Engaging Film Criticism: Film History and Contemporary American Cinema, Bewitched and Gilligans Island. His thematic areas of interest include the television sitcom, documentary, experimental film, Holocaust studies, natural history filmmaking and science studies. He can be reached at 406-579-3679 and wmetz@siu.edu.

Lear died Dec. 5 at the age of 101. Lear, alongside television producers William Asher (Bewitched), Sherwood Schwartz (Gilligans Island and The Brady Bunch) and Paul Henning (The Beverly Hillbillies and Green Acres), serves as an example of what Horace Newcomb describes as television being a producers medium.

Lear often used familial themes that audiences could relate to. CNN noted that in a 2020 interview Lear would take issue with his shows being edgy.

Edgy is what others wrote about it, but I never thought it was edgy, Lear said at the time. We were simply dealing with the problems that existed in our culture.

Metz uses several examples of Lears shows during the 1970s centrifugally spiraling outward his complex portrait of the United States across various identity political domains  whether the issues were generational (All In the Family), Black poverty (Good Times), working class life (Sanford and Son), upward social mobility (The Jeffersons) and different intensities of feminist discontent and revolt (One Day at a Time and Maude).

Metz recounts an All in the Family episode with Archie Bunker and his son-in-law, Mike, where Lear modeled the generational debate. Bunker arrogantly assumes his U.S. Army buddy agrees with his Nixonian hawkishness regarding the Vietnam War. Bunker rails against Mikes friend, who is a draft dodger, but then is stunned into silence when the elder man tearfully laments that his son died in battle and wishes that his son had also fled to Canada.

Lear's death represents the last gasp of the post-World War II intellectual using the palate of popular television to transplant the ideological critiques of the comedies of Aristophanes and Shakespeare into living rooms across the United States and beyond, Metz said.

His gargantuan achievement continues to be felt across the contemporary electromagnetic spectrum, from HBO's Veep to CBS' The United States of Al. We shall not see Lear's like again, but our storytelling will be forever enhanced by what he taught us about the power of television to crystallize what it means to be a player in the promise and tragedy of the bold American experiment in democracy.
Ryan Gosling, left, and Margot Robbie in "Barbie," a Chicago Tribune Top 10 for 2023. (Courtesy of Warner Bros. Picture/Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures/Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures/TNS)

So many good and even great films this year! Its nice to use an unironic exclamation point for the movie year that was, amid a year soaked in political dread and menace, in America and beyond.

The Writers Guild of America and Screen Actors Guild strikes fought back against the studios and streaming giants, gaining some meaningful financial ground and some roadblocks, at least, to de-accelerate the artificial intelligence encroachments in an industry barely, chaotically recognizable from a few years ago.

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The summer of 2023 drew audiences as if COVID wasnt a thing anymore. Millions responded to the weirdest, simplest, happiest ad hoc marketing coup of recent movie times: Barbenheimer! The barb half was based on a toy, the enheimer half told the story of the man behind the weapon that stripped our planet of any future certainty. Both were verifiable and remarkable eyefuls. And Barbie and Oppenheimer ended up making nearly $2.5 billion as a double act.

Meantime, the corporate consolidation riddle of Warner Bros. Discovery is such that Barbie can gross $1.4 billion and its a gnat on the elephant of debt now vexing CEO David Zaslav.

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Money can market hits, and sometimes make them, but this years highlights  lavishly budgeted in some cases, micro-budgeted in others  worked closer to an artistic impulse. We take heart from the years signs of cinematic life. In some cases, the titles included in my list premiered on the 2023 festival circuit and will become available commercially in 2024. In one or two cases Im deliberately withholding a movie or two from inclusion until next year. Theres more than enough to contend with as is!

Again, with the unironic exclamation point. Never thought Id see the day, or type the punctuation.

Best movies

10. May December: Dueling, intertwining portraits in damaged and damaging women, with an extraordinarily tricky tonal range and sterling work from Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore. Directed by Todd Haynes.

9. Oppenheimer: Propulsive almost to a fault, but a genuine feat of intelligent showmanship in the service of legitimately sticky and eternally troubling moral complexity. Written and directed by Christopher Nolan.

Cillian Murphy stars in "Oppenheimer." (Universal Pictures/Universal Pictures/Universal Pictures/TNS)

8. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, The Rat Catcher, The Swan and Poison: For Netflix, Wes Anderson adapted four Roald Dahl stories, adding up to a nearly perfect 90-minute experience. Comparisons are cheap, but I prefer this project to Andersons Asteroid City, even if Im still singing Dear Alien (Who Art in Heaven).

7. Return to Seoul: A Korean-born wanderer returns to Seoul, three different times in her life, in search of her long-buried origin story. This one lingers in mysterious ways. Written and directed by Davy Chou.

6: The Zone of Interest: Using only the horrific Auschwitz setting of Martin Amis novel, writer-director Jonathan Glazers razor-sharp exercise in sustained and brutal irony is unlike anything else on, or even near, the subject. Premieres in Chicago Jan. 12.

Rachel McAdams as Barbara Simon, Abby Ryder Fortson as Margaret Simon, and Benny Safdie as Herb Simon in "Are You There God? (Dana Hawley/Lionsgate/TNS/TNS)

5. Are You There God? Its Me, Margaret: Judy Blumes evergreen charmer of a bestseller gets the film version it deserves, even if it didnt get the audience. Written and directed by Kelly Fremon Craig, with wonderful work from everyone, none better than Rachel McAdams.

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4. Barbie: Director/co-writer Greta Gerwig takes Mattel on a quest of existential inquiry, funny first, reflective and touching when it counted. Not what the toy company wanted, probably, until the money rolled in. But Gerwig wanted it, and we did.

3. Killers of the Flower Moon: Martin Scorseses mournful elegy is an Old West gangster movie about American might, right and murderous racism. Though it didnt go deeply enough into the lives of the Osage Nation characters, this was a near-miss, saved and elevated by late-stage rewrites. Itll last a long time.

Margot Robbie in a scene from "Barbie." (Uncredited/AP)

What to Watch Daily The latest from Tribune critics on what film and television you should be watching. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy >

2. The Boy: All of 25 minutes, this singular portrait of one broken Israeli soldiers life at home, in perpetual wartime  filmmaker Yahav Winner was killed in the Oct. 7 Hamas massacre  has zero interest in anti-Palestine propaganda. Streaming on YouTube.

1. Past Lives: Brief Encounter, chronologically expanded, and told through the eyes and heart of a Korean woman (Greta Lee) reconnecting in New York with her childhood friend (Teo Yoo). Written and directed by Celine Song with exquisite observational acumen.

Greta Lee, right, and Teo Yoo in a scene from "Past Lives." (Jon Pack/A24 /AP)

Top 11-20, in alphabetical order: All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt; Fair Play; Four Daughters; Im a Virgo Amazon limited series; In the Rearview; Poor Things; The Royal Hotel; Showing Up; A Thousand and One; The Unknown Country.

Worst movies

The bummer list, in alphabetical order:

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Michael Phillips is a Tribune critic.

mjphillips@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @phillipstribune
PRNewswire Dubai [UAE], December 5: The Fortescue Green Pioneer has sailed from its base in Singapore to Dubai for COP28 as a symbol to the world of the technology solutions and regulatory changes needed to decarbonise shipping. Fortescue Executive Chairman and Founder Andrew Forrest AO stated, "At the moment the regulatory landscape does not allow for ammonia ships to operate. "Now it is up to the world's ports to insist that their logistics do not harbour those who seek to hide from their responsibility to turn away from pollution. "Now that green ammonia is emerging as a bulk marine fuel, it is now the time of the great ports of the world to become capable of pollution free shipping. All administrations of good character will not use inaction and excuses to stand in the road of progress to decarbonise one of the world's dirtiest industries. "This is seriously limiting the progress of the decarbonisation of shipping. I look to the leadership of the world's ports to make clear that running the world's global shipping on dirty bunker fuel has to stop, as we have a pollution free alternative." Together with leading maritime engineers and innovators, Fortescue has spent the past 18 months developing the systems, processes and technology needed to safely run the Green Pioneer as a green ammonia dual-fuel ship. One of the most significant and fastest marine innovation platforms, the vessel is today sitting proudly in the waters of the Dubai Harbour Marina. Fortescue successfully retrofitted a four-stroke engine to run on a blend of ammonia and diesel at its Perth testing facility earlier this year, marking a major milestone in its pursuit of a global shipping industry no longer reliant on fossil fuels. Fortescue has since installed an entire gas fuel delivery system and converted two of the four engines on the proof-of-concept Green Pioneer in Singapore to enable the vessel to run in dual-fuel mode on ammonia and diesel. Fortescue is now continuing to pursue its broader plan for a world-first fuel transfer and marine vessel with approval to use ammonia as a fuel. Fortescue has also pioneered and implemented new, ammonia-specific safety and fuel handling courses in conjunction with an accredited Singapore learning institution to ensure all seafarers can be inducted and operate in a safe and controlled manner with ammonia fuel on-board. This training can now be extended to the wider industry to enable the safe and wider roll-out of ammonia as a marine fuel. Due to the lack of appropriate regulations that Dr Forrest has called on world ports to change, the vessel will not be carrying ammonia or demonstrating the use of ammonia as a fuel while in Dubai. However, when the vessel returns to Singapore which has made itself ammonia capable, the Company will complete commissioning to enable it to perform a world-first ammonia transfer and reach final flag and class approval to enable it to operate ammonia dual-fuel engines on the water and use ammonia as a fuel. Green ammonia is produced using renewable energy, so a green ammonia-based alternative to diesel would be considered a game-changer for reducing the carbon footprint of the world's shipping industry, which would be the sixth-largest polluter in the world if it were a country. While the technological advances are encouraging, Fortescue is using the gathering of the international community at COP28 to call on all enablers - including governments, port authorities, regulators, training institutions and development banks - to move at pace by ensuring the appropriate settings are in place for the use of ammonia as an alternative shipping fuel. Media contact:Fortescue E: media@fortescue.comM: 1800 134 442 About Fortescue Fortescue is focused on becoming the number 1 integrated green energy, metals and technology company, recognised for its culture, innovation and industry-leading development of infrastructure, mining assets and green energy initiatives. It operates with two divisions - Metals and Energy. Fortescue is committed to producing green hydrogen, containing zero carbon, from renewable electricity. Green hydrogen is a zero-carbon fuel that, when used, produces primarily water. It is a practical and implementable solution that can help revolutionise the way we power our planet: helping to decarbonise heavy industry and create jobs globally. Fortescue is leading the green industrial revolution, building a global portfolio of renewable green hydrogen and green ammonia projects, while also leading the global effort to help decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors. This includes developing and acquiring the technology and energy supply to help decarbonise the Australian iron ore operations of one of the world's largest producers of iron ore, Fortescue Metals, by 2030 (Scope 1 and 2 terrestrial emissions). fortescue.com (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
NewsVoir Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], December 5: In the face of growing health challenges posed by climate change including rising heat-related illnesses, vector-borne and waterborne diseases and mental health issues, Swasti, The Health Catalyst, and the Global Consortium on Climate and Health Education (GCCHE), Columbia University, proudly announce the launch of ClimateCare Champions program. This innovative initiative aims to equip community health workers (CHWs) with the knowledge and skills needed to address the health impacts of climate change in core geographies of India, Cambodia, the Philippines, Bangladesh, and beyond. This program is a collaborative effort driven by the urgent need to empower communities to enhance their wellbeing despite the looming threat of climate change. Identified as the greatest health challenge of the 21st century, the climate crisis poses severe risks to air quality, food and water security, and amplifies the prevalence of infectious and chronic diseases. Dr. Angela Chaudhuri, Chief Executive Officer of Swasti states, "This partnership launched during Health Day at COP 28, marks a crucial step toward realizing our vision of a world where all people, especially the most vulnerable, overcome barriers to universal health. CHWs are vital links between health systems and communities. Often, these workers are women embedded within their communities, offering intimate access to households, addressing overlooked needs of women and other genders. They bridge gaps in healthcare and foster trust within the communities they serve." Dr. Cecilia Sorensen, Director of GCCHE adds, "With this partnership, we are taking a critical step towards ensuring that health professionals worldwide are well-prepared to address the multifaceted health challenges posed by climate change. The program focuses on vulnerable populations, including new and expecting mothers, infants, as well as outdoor and factory workers. This underscores our commitment to building climate-resilient communities and safeguarding the health of those who are most at risk." The ClimateCare Champions is founded on two clear objectives. Firstly, the program aims to empower Community Health Workers with the expertise to adeptly screen, detect, refer, and prevent adverse health effects associated with climate change in the communities they serve. Secondly, it provides specialized training to enhance CHWs' communication and advocacy skills. This empowers them to serve as trusted messengers, advocating with decision-makers in both public and private sectors. They will promote localized interventions that effectively address specific public health risks posed by climate change. The program utilizes flexible, hybrid modes of delivery, incorporating both in-person and digital elements. Grounded in globally benchmarked research published in top journals, it employs a contextualized curriculum and delivery tailored for local communities in the Global South. Swasti is a Health Catalyst that strives for 100 million healthy days for vulnerable communities. Swasti was founded in 2004 as a springboard from where innovative solutions are developed, adapted or scaled to create transformative changes in the lives of the poorest communities. Swasti believes people must be at the center of health systems for it to effectively work for the poor. To add healthy days to the lives of the world's poor by 2030, the global multi-disciplinary team co-designs demonstrable and scalable solutions models in partnership with communities on the ground and influences policies nationally and internationally. Swasti has varied expertise, from public health to financing and management to design - across sectors of health, worker well-being, WASH, social protection, and gender - providing comprehensive and integrated solutions to achieve community health and wellbeing. Launched in early 2017, the Global Consortium on Climate and Health Education (GCCHE) was born from a meeting at the December 2015 COP-21 conference in Paris. A special session was held to highlight the need for greater investment in the study of and planning for the health impacts of climate change. The U.S. White House and the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health's Climate and Health Program spearheaded a pledge that was announced at the session, which was signed by 115 health professions schools and programs around the world, to educate tomorrow's leaders on the health impacts of climate change. The World Health Organization endorsed the goal of educating health professions' students and practitioners on the health impacts of climate change and their roles and responsibilities. The GCCHE was then created, with a secretariat based at Columbia University, which supports curriculum development, education and coordinates activities among members on this vital mission. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
As the country observes Mahaparinirvan Divas on December 6 in memory of Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud said that this year a statue of Ambedkar has been put up in the Supreme Court premises and it feels like Babasaheb is amongst all of us. "This is a memorable day for us. This year we got a statue of Babasaheb Ambedkar on Supreme Court premises, it feels like he is amongst us," CJI Chandrachud said while speaking to reporters on Wednesday. The Chief Justice said that the principles of the life of Babasaheb Ambedkar should be followed by all. "The principles of the life of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar should be followed by all including the youth. We can follow and implement these principles in many ways. We are following the principles that he drafted for us 75 years back," he said. Earlier in the day, President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tribute to Dr BR Ambedkar on his 67th death anniversary. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and other parliamentarians paid tribute to the architect of the Constitution at his statue in the Parliament premises. Earlier, taking to his social media account, 'X' Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote, "Pujya Baba Saheb, along with being the architect of the Indian Constitution, was an immortal champion of social harmony, who dedicated his life for the welfare of the exploited and the deprived. My respectful obeisances to him today on his Mahaparinirvana day. In his message Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also paid tributes to the architecht of the Indian Constitution saying "We are Indians, firstly and lastly" Babasaheb Dr. B R Ambedkar Babasaheb was a lifelong champion of the democratic principles of liberty, equality, fraternity and justice. On his Mahaparinirvan Diwas, we pay our deepest respects to his ideas of social transformation and social justice. We must collectively resolve to preserve and protect his finest contribution to the nation -- the Constitution of India." Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in his message said " On 'Mahaparinirvan Diwas', I bow to Babasaheb Ambedkar and his remarkable contributions to our nation. His thoughts inspired millions, and our coming generations will never forget his role in creating India's Constitution." Mos PMO Dr Jitendra Singh remmbered Babasaheb saying " Today, we remember Babasaheb Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar on Mahaparinirvan Diwas. The chief architect of our Constitution,Babasaheb worked tirelessly throughout his life for creating an equitable and a strong India." Born on April 14, 1891, Baba Saheb Ambedkar was an Indian jurist, economist, politician and social reformer who campaigned against social discrimination towards Dalits and supported the rights of women ad workers. He died on December 6, 1956. Baba Saheb Ambedkar was a prolific student, earning doctorates in economics from both Columbia University and the University of London. In 1956. He led a satyagraha in Mahad to fight for the right of the untouchable community to draw water from the main water tank of the town. On 25 September, 1932, the agreement known as Poona Pact was signed between Ambedkar and Madan Mohan Malaviya. Due to the pact, the depressed class received 148 seats in the legislature, instead of the 71 as allocated earlier. He was also one of the seven members of the committee that drafted the Indian Constitution after independence. In 1990, Ambedkar was conferred with the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award. Baba Saheb Ambedkar died in his sleep on 6 December, 1956, at his home in Delhi. (ANI)
Rajput leader Raj Shekhawat reached Metro Mass Hospital in Jaipur from Gujarat to protest against the murder of the national president of Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi. "We have demanded that the bullet be answered with the bullet. Those who are responsible for the murders should be encountered; this is the demand of society," said Shekhawat. Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi was shot dead by unidentified bike-borne criminals in Jaipur. His body has been kept at the Metro Mass Hospital. The Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena has enforced a statewide strike in Rajasthan on Wednesday and has warned the newly elected BJP government, saying that the new government needed to take this incident seriously. Vehicles were blocked in several areas of the state as agitators set tyres on fire in protest. Shekhawat said it was unfortunate that security had not been provided to Sukhdev Gogamedi even though it was known that he was receiving threats. The Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena has also warned the incoming BJP government to take the issue seriously or face the ire of the Rajput community. "Sukhdev Singh has been murdered with betrayal," said Raj Shekhawat. Further expressing his anger, the Rajput leader said that arrest would do nothing as the accused would get out of jail and again commit murder. "If the investigation is conducted impartially, the mastermind can be reached, and he should also be encountered. This is our demand," he said. Both the BJP and the Congress have been indulging in a political blame game over the murder of Karni Sena Chief Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi. Outgoing Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot condemned the incident. "The incident of murder of Shri Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi is very sad. I pray to God to give peace to the departed soul and strength to the family to bear this loss," Gehlot posted on X. Former Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Raje said that the incident is highly condemnable and unfortunate. "The murder of Shri Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi, National President of Shri Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena, is highly condemnable and unfortunate. May God rest the soul of the deceased and provide strength to the bereaved family," Raje posted on X. Rajasthan DGP Umesh Mishra said that raids are being conducted at the possible hideouts of the miscreants. "The killers had come to his house on the pretext of discussing something. In this incident, Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi and one of his bodyguards were shot. An accused accompanying the killers was also shot, and he has died. Raids are being conducted at the possible hideouts of the miscreants. We spoke to the Haryana DG, and assistance has been sought. The Rohit Godara gang has taken responsibility for the murder; they will be arrested soon," the Rajasthan DGP said. Karni Sena activists have been on protest since Tuesday evening and have brought the state to a standstill demanding immediate action against the killers of Sukhdev Gogamedi. (ANI)
A meeting of the floor leaders of the INDIA bloc will be held today at 7 pm at Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge's residence here in the national capital. According to the sources, the Trinamool Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) are likely to skip the meeting. Earlier today, amid speculations that Mamata Banerjee is likely to skip the INDIA bloc meeting due to scheduling issues, the West Bengal Chief Minister clarified, saying that the opposition leaders will be meeting shortly whenever the Congress comes up with a favourable date. "I was not informed earlier. Only a day before yesterday, Rahul called me up and told me about the meeting...We will be meeting shortly whenever they decide," Mamata said before leaving for her scheduled North Bengal tour on Wednesday. Speaking about scheduling issues, the Chief Minister said that her counterparts need prior invitations at least seven or ten days in advance. "Other Chief Ministers also have meetings. They need to know about the program seven days ago or 10 days ago," she said. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut said that the next meeting of the INDIA bloc can take place between December 16 and 18 and many things including the face of the alliance will be decided at that time. "The INDIA alliance meeting was supposed to be held today but some prominent leaders were not available. There is a wedding in Mamata Banerjee's house, MK Stalin is busy with the relief operation in his flood-hit state, Nitish Kumar is not well, and Akhilesh Yadav is not available, therefore this meeting will be held on the 16th or 18th of December. The face etc. everything will be decided in the meeting. We are together and you will see its result in 2024," Sanjay Raut said. Seat sharing for the Lok Sabha polls, which is just four months away, is likely to be at the top of the agenda. The next INDIA bloc meeting would also be crucial for Congress, particularly as the party lost Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls, the Hindi heartland states that send a large number of members to the Parliament. The first meeting of the joint opposition convened in Patna on June 23 and the second meeting was held in Bengaluru on July 17-18. The third meeting happened in Mumbai during August 31-September 1. The INDIA alliance had appeared on shaky ground when the Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the Congress of betrayal after the Congress failed to reach a seat-sharing agreement for the Madhya Pradesh election. The Samajwadi Party has mellowed its stance now, party spokesperson Rajinder Chaudhary said that the results in the assembly polls would strengthen the INDIA bloc. INDIA or 'Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance' is a group of 28 opposition parties, including the Congress. The parties have come together to take on the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which is led by PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and prevent it from winning a third straight term at the Centre in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In the Mumbai meeting, the opposition parties adopted resolutions to collectively contest the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections while announcing that seat-sharing arrangements would be finalised as soon as possible through a spirit of give-and-take. The theme chosen by the INDIA bloc for the elections is "Judega Bharat, Jeetega India" (India will unite, India will win) to take on the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government.(ANI)
Based on a specific information regarding the smuggling of drugs near the Bangladesh border at Sonamura in Sepahijala district of Tripura, a swift operation was launched on Tuesday by the Assam Rifles, the official said.

After reaching the location, security forces observed the movement of two suspicious individuals who were travelling on motorcycles near the Bangladesh border who, upon being challenged, did not stop but rather tried to flee from the location, the official added.

While being chased, the motorcyclists threw two sealed packets into the bushes near the forest road and escaped by taking advantage of the dense foliage and the forest, they said.

The Assam Rifles team, after a thorough search of the area, found the two sealed packets, which contained 20,000 yaba tablets, the official said. (ANI)
The BJP, which wrested Rajasthan from Congress after winning 115 of 199 seats, is yet to pick its chief minister for the state.

Vasundhara Raje, who is a two-time CM of the state; Diya Kumari, an MLA from Vidyadhar Nagar; Mahat Balak Nath, who won from the Tijara constituency; and Rajyavarardhan Singh Rathore, who won from the Jhotwara constituency, are among the top contenders.

The BJP swept the Hindi heartland on the counting day for four states that polled for their assemblies last month. The BJP, with its stunning mandates in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan, stumped not just their rivals but also some pollsters who had predicted tight races in these states.

In Rajasthan, the vote count painted a starkly different picture from what some of the pollsters had predicted, with the BJP poised to form the government, winning 115 seats, and the Congress trailing at 69 seats.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will hold the Parliamentary party meeting tomorrow at Balayogi Auditorium in the Parliament House complex amid suspense over the selection of Chief Ministers in three states - Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with all the party MPs will be present at the meeting.

BJP has the crucial task of selecting potential chief ministerial candidates to lead new cabinets for the upcoming five years. (ANI)
A senior US Administration official dealing with refugees and migration, Julieta Valls Noyes, held a meeting with foreign secretary Cyrus Qazi and Pakistan's special representative for Afghanistan, Ambassador Asif Durrani, The Express Tribune reported on Tuesday. According to the daily, the foreign office issued no press release, but Noyes shared on X with an image of her meeting with Ambassador Durrani with a terse statement stating, "Good to visit Pakistan Foreign Ministry and see special representative for Afghanistan Asif Durrani again today (Tuesday) for discussion on Afghan refugees, protection and resettlement." The US official began her four-day trip to Pakistan with a series of meetings at the foreign office on Tuesday and is first of three Biden administration officials that are visiting Pakistan within the next few days. The Express Tribune stated in its report that she will continue to meet other senior officials during her stay in Pakistan in what seems like an effort on the part of Washington to find a solution to those stranded Afghan individuals who are eligible for migration to the US. Pakistan, earlier, launched a crackdown against Afghans living in the country illegally following the expiration of the deadline on October 31. The Express Tribune reported that since the decision, the US has been in touch with Pakistan to ensure that Afghans who are eligible for immigration to the US are spared. There are about 25,000 Afghans, who according to Washington, are in Pakistan and waiting for their immigration to the US. Those Afghans worked for the US during its military campaign in Afghanistan. But after the US withdrawal, they have been stuck in Pakistan, waiting for the process of immigration to complete. The US has been working with Pakistan to find a workable solution to prevent Afghan immigrants from being deported to their homeland, The Express Tribune reported. There are also concerns that other than such Afghans, there are individuals such as musicians, artists, journalists and others who may be evicted. The US is keen that such vulnerable Afghans are not touched either. Pakistani officials said their cases would be scrutinised accordingly, making it clear that in the first phase, those who don't have any legal status are being sent back. US Special Representative for Afghanistan Tom West is due in Islamabad later this week to discuss the overall Afghan situation particularly the current state of the relationship between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban, the daily reported. (ANI)
The UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in Afghanistan Daniel Peter Endres has said that Afghanistan ranks as the world's sixth vulnerable, least-ready country to address the impacts of climate change, TOLO News reported. TOLO News is an Afghan news channel. Endres expressed his concerns over the effects of climate change in Afghanistan. In a video released by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) Afghanistan, Endres said: "Over the past 70 years, Afghanistan has experienced rising temperatures, declining rainfalls and unprecedented levels of deforestation." Meanwhile, the Taliban-appointed spokesman of the State Ministry for Disaster Management, Mullah Jan Saiq, said that if the current impacts of climate change are not addressed in Afghanistan, it will cause huge damage to the country. The Taliban ruled government has also objected to not being invited to COP28 Climate summit in Dubai despite being a country vulnerable to Climate change. Mullah Janan Saaiq, spokesman of the disaster management ministry, said in a video that Afghanistan is affected by climate change and that the representative of the Islamic Emirate should have been invited to the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 28) in the United Arab Emirates. Mullah Janan Saaiq said if the representative of the Islamic Emirate was invited to the meeting, after the discussion, they would have focused on reducing greenhouse gases and its dangers in Afghanistan. According to Saaiq, nearly 20 million people in Afghanistan were affected by climate change last year TOLO News also reached out to some farmers who shared their deep concerns about climate change's effect on their harvests. A farmer, Sadiq Khan, said: "There is a severe drought in the country. Farming is very challenging and the harvests are not good in their seasons." This comes as the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference known as COP 28 hosted by the UAE invited no representative from Afghanistan. (ANI)
Central Asia's largest oil producer and a major gas producer Kazakhstan joined the "Global Methane Pledge", a voluntary agreement to cut methane emissions by 30 per cent by 2030, during this year's COP28 event in Dubai, as per a release issued by the Embassy of Kazakhstan. In addition, 50 oil companies representing nearly half of global production signed onto the commitment to achieve near-zero Methane emissions and end routine flaring in their operations by 2030. Kazakhstan plays an important role in energy supply to the EU and over 70 per cent of its oil exports are destined for EU member states, making Kazakhstan the EU's 3rd-largest non-OPEC supplier. Methane emissions are a by-product of crude oil's production and transport. Because those emissions contribute significantly to global warming, their drastic reduction could help slow any rise in temperatures. Current technologies and changes in methods of operation can largely address existing issues, so the methane pledges would be a crucial step in the battle against climate change, the embassy release said. As per the Kazakh embassy, Central Asia experiences unique challenges in mitigating climate change risks. Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev pointed out that even if the Paris Agreement's goals to limit the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees by 2050 are met, Central Asian countries still expect a 2.5-degree increase in temperature. Results of this could include water scarcity, extreme heat, desertification, and severe hydrological events. Therefore, the President's endorsement of the UN's urgent plea for action is significant. Kazakhstan's decision to join the Global Methane Pledge was revealed by Tokayev during his speech to COP28. He said: "Cutting methane emissions is our quickest avenue to immediately slow the rate of global warming." This move, he says, signifies the country's dedication to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, it aligns with the international community's efforts to abate non-CO2 climate super-pollutants. The embassy said the decision underscores Kazakhstan's dedication to environmental conservation and its proactive role in global climate action. Tokayev also emphasized that, for developing countries to make such commitments, climate action must be equitable, meaning it must not demand that emerging economies sacrifice their national development and modernization. Development, according to Tokayev, should proceed in a modern and environmentally friendly manner. Consequently, he called upon the international community to "scale up its commitment to greater meaningful climate finance." By joining the Global Methane Pledge, Kazakhstan will gain access to technologies and finance for methane-emission reduction Meanwhile, the US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry and Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan on International Environmental Cooperation Zulfiya Suleimenova, issued a joint statement that the two countries "state their mutual readiness to accelerate the development and implementation of policies and projects to rapidly reduce methane emissions, particularly from the fossil energy sector over the next two years." In addition, the US committed "to work with partners to mobilize investments to support achieving full methane mitigation potential in Kazakhstan's oil and gas sector, which will require at least USD 1.4 billion in total spending through 2030." (ANI)
One person was dead and another critically injured in an early-morning house fire at which two CPD officers were also injured in the 1200 block of South Kedvale Avenue on Dec. 6, 2023. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)

Carlos Street mostly kept to himself at his home in North Lawndale where he lived with his mother, Dessie Street. Her passion for sewing and crafting clothes for others made her a well-known and familiar face around the neighborhood.

On Wednesday morning, family and friends somberly shared stories of the mother and son as they gathered outside the pairs home that was torched by an overnight fire. Dessie Street escaped the fire and was transported to Mount Sinai Hospital in critical condition, but Carlos was still missing and family believed he was in the rubble.

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The group held their breath as the Fire Department carefully lifted up debris in the aftermath of the fire. Joseph Johnson, Carlos uncle and Dessies brother, cried out when the body of a man was found. He hugged the people around him.

Please pray for our family, Johnson said.

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Joseph Johnson, uncle of the fire victim, talks to reporters before the body of his nephew was found in the rubble following an early morning fire in which a woman and two CPD officers were also injured in the 1200 block of South Kedvale Avenue on Dec. 6, 2023. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)

The man had not been identified by the medical examiners office as of Wednesday evening but was identified by family as Carlos Street. Records show a man named Carl Street, 51, resides at the address of the fire. No one else was unaccounted for, said Fire Department spokesman Larry Langford.

Chicago police officers responded to the home in the 1200 block of South Kedvale Avenue around 1:15 a.m., where 73-year-old Dessie Street was found lying in the grass on the front lawn. Neighbors at the scene alerted police that her son with special needs was missing.

Two officers were injured in the search for her son when one officer fell through the porch and became trapped. The officer was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A second officer suffered a minor ankle injury running from the fire and was released from the hospital.

Officials said the cause is under investigation but the severity of the fire and the instability of the structure could make finding the cause difficult. Half a side wall is all that remains of the house.

Loved ones gathered outside the home Wednesday shared Dessies love of sewing and creating clothes, including prom dresses and holiday outfits for people in the neighborhood.

Many years, there would be a line of people down the street and wrapping around the block from her house wanting to order custom holiday outfits, said Linda Ward, 55, of North Lawndale, who said she is related to the family through marriage.

Ward was at her house Tuesday to pick up a pair of pants Dessie had altered for a friend of Wards. While Ward was there, she and Dessie had talked about the outfit Dessie was creating for Ward.

She had just told me Im going to start on your outfit, Ward said.

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Ward said Carlos was quiet and didnt talk much, mainly staying upstairs. But when she saw him Tuesday at the house, he came downstairs to eat pizza with his mother.

He came down and said, Let me get two slices of that pizza, she said.

Dessies sister-in-law, Tomikaa Rainge said she visits Streets house almost every morning to check in on Dessie and Carlos. On Wednesday morning, she said she was on her way to see them when she saw news of the fire on television.

We would just chat and hold a conversation, Rainge said of her daily visits.

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Rainge said Dessie is well-known in the community.

She makes a lot of clothes for a lot of the young people around the neighborhood, Rainge said.

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Dessie Street, who turns 74 Thursday, has several children, but Carlos was the only child who lived with her, family said. The mother and son spent most of their time together and were very close, Rainge said.

She said they were a close-knit family.

They never bothered anyone, Rainge said.

dawilliams@chicagotribune.com

aguffey@chicagotribune.com
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) rejected Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan's plea to withdraw his appeal against disqualification in the Toshakhana case, as reported by Dawn. IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq announced the verdict on Wednesday, reserved on September 13. Imran Khan was arrested in Toshakhana, Al-Qadir Trust and cypher cases and is currently in Adiala Jail, according to Dawn. The court stated that Imran Khan had been found guilty of corrupt practises, deliberately submitting fake details of Toshakhana gifts to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). On August 5, 2022, the District and Sessions Court sentenced Imran Khan to a three-year jail term in the Toshakhana criminal case, imposing a Pakistan Rupee (PKR) 1,00,000 fine on the convicted PTI chief. The court also declared the former prime minister ineligible to hold public office for five years. Imran Khan emphasised that he had procured the gifts from the state treasury after paying Pakistani Rupees (PKR) 21.56 million fetched about Rs 58 million, adding that one of the gifts included a graff wristwatch, a pair of cuff links, an expensive pen and a ring while the other three gifts included four Rolex watches. Moreover, the Toshakhana is a department under the Cabinet Division that stores gifts given to rulers and government officials by heads of other governments and foreign dignitaries. According to Toshakhana rules, gifts and other such materials received by persons to whom these rules apply shall be reported to the Cabinet Division, Dawn reported. Later in October, the ECP concluded that Khan had indeed made "false statements and incorrect declarations" regarding the gifts. Following that, the former PM approached the IHC against its decision contending that he had purchased the assets legally and hence it was right of him to mention the gifts in his assets statement, according to Dawn. However, on January 18, the PTI filed a fresh plea in IHC seeking to withdraw the petition, saying that Imran wanted the Lahore High Court to hear the matter. (ANI)
"I condemn the agonising Chilas incident. Mujahideen-e-Gilgit-Baltistan denies its role in the act. The organisation views it as its duty to protect Muslims' lives, property, and honour. We want peace" said Habibur Rehman, Vice President of Mujahideen-e-Gilgit-Baltistan.

Two men along with sophisticated arms were also visible in the video which indicates the heavy presence of terrorists in Gilgit Baltistan.

Habibur Rehman is accused in the 2013 Nanga Parbat massacre in which 11 people were killed including 10 foreign foreign tourists.

In October last year, Habibur Rehman, and his accomplices had reportedly blocked the road in Thak village of Chilas in Diamer to press the authorities for the release of their jailed accomplices.

At least 10 people including two soldiers were killed and 21 passengers were wounded on December 2 when a Rawalpindi-bound bus from nearby hills was attacked by unknown terrorists, causing a vehicle to collide with a goods truck.

Massive protests erupted across Gilgit Baltistan after the incident. Women and children in Skardu, Chilas, and Gilgit blocked the roads and blamed the government and security agencies for their failure to act against terrorists.

Chilas is located in the mountainous area of Gilgit-Baltistan, close to the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

In recent years, there has been an increase in attacks in this area, some of which have been attributed to the Pakistani Taliban, also known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). (ANI)
Suriname's Foreign Minister Albert R Ramdin landed on Tuesday in New Delhi with a warm welcome as he gears up to co-chair the 8th India-Suriname Joint Commission Meeting.

The official visit, scheduled from December 5 to 7, holds promise for advancing historical ties between the two nations.

"FM Albert Ramdin of Suriname arrives to a warm welcome in New Delhi to co-chair the 8th India-Suriname Joint Commission Meeting. An opportunity to further advance India-Suriname historical ties," posted MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on X.

The highlight of FM Ramdin's agenda is a crucial meeting with India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, at Hyderabad House on Wednesday. The discussions aim to strengthen diplomatic relations and explore avenues for enhanced bilateral cooperation.

The visit is strategically timed to deepen the bond between India and Suriname, reflecting the commitment of both nations to mutual growth and collaboration.

Ramdin's departure is scheduled for December 7, marking the conclusion of this significant diplomatic engagement.

India shares close, warm and friendly relations with Suriname with historical linkages dating back to 149 years. Soon after Suriname's Independence on November 25, 1975, India established diplomatic relations in 1976 and opened its Embassy in Paramaribo in 1977.

The Suriname Embassy, however, started functioning in New Delhi from March 2000, the Ministry of External Affairs said.

Suriname is a country with a huge Indian diaspora population. A coalition government led by a largely Indian-origin party assumed power in Suriname in July 2020. President of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi is a Person of Indian Origin (PIO). He was the chief guest at PBD 2021 held virtually on January 9, 2021. (ANI)
Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Riyadh on Wednesday to hold a meeting with Saudi Arabian Prime Minister Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. Taking to X, Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared about his arrival, posting, "#HappeningNow. President of Russia Vladimir Putin arrives to Riyadh on a working visit." https://x.com/mfa_russia/status/1732437746604523875?s=20 In Riyadh, President Putin and Mohammed bin Salman will hold discussions on "issues of bilateral cooperation in trade, economy and investments, as well as various aspects of cooperation in multilateral formats". The sides also plan to have "an exchange of opinion on regional and international agenda", according to reports. Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Russia are all members of OPEC+, the alliance between the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and other major oil producers, which last week agreed to extend and deepen its production cuts. Earlier, on Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin departed for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for his second leg of the tour, after concluding his working visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Wednesday. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared on their social media X, stating, "President of Russia Vladimir Putin concluded his fruitful working visit to the UAE, and has departed for the 2nd leg of the tour - for Riyadh" During his visit to the UAE, the Russian President thanked his UAE counterpart Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his country's efforts in the environmental sphere, according to TASS. "Today, one of the most important international ecological forums (the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change - COP28 - TASS) is being held in the UAE. The initial results of the Paris Agreements are being summarized," Putin said after holding talks with his UAE counterpart. "You are holding this event just as we expected - at the highest level. Undoubtedly, many people around the world, who are far removed from the environmental movement, are grateful for your efforts here," the Russian President added. "The Russian delegation is very involved in the conference's work", Putin said, adding, "We wish you success, which I have no doubt you will have." The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change is being held from November 30 to December 12 in Dubai. Over 140 state leaders and more than 70,000 delegates from various countries are attending the event. Representatives from big business, the research community, experts and journalists are also present at the event, TASS reported. (ANI)
The Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen fired ballistic missiles over the Red Sea that were intercepted and shot down by Israel's long-range Arrow air defence system, The Times of Israel reported on Wednesday. The daily reported that the incident set off sirens in Israel's southernmost city of Eilat, though the Israel Defence forces said the surface-to-surface missile did not enter the country's airspace. "The target did not cross into Israeli territory and did not pose a threat to civilians. The alert was activated according to protocol," the IDF said in a statement. The Iran-backed rebel group later claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it fired several missiles at "military targets" in the Eilat area. The Houthis fired several ballistic missiles and drones at Eilat since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war in October, all of which were either intercepted or missed their intended targets. The Times of Israel reported that Wednesday's Arrow interception was Israel's fourth interception of a ballistic missile, all of which occurred amid the war in Gaza. Cruise missiles and drones launched by the Houthis in recent weeks have been taken out by Israeli fighter jets. The Iran-backed Houthis, who seized Yemen's capital Sanaa in 2014 and control large swaths of the country, are "part of the axis of resistance" against Israel along with Hamas -- which is also sponsored by Tehran, the daily noted. Further, according to The Times of Israel, the Houthi rebels have expressed support for the Palestinians and threatened Israel amid the Israel-Hamas war. The Iranian-backed group's slogan is "Death to America, Death to Israel, Curse the Jews, Victory to Islam." Iran has warned repeatedly that Israel could face wider threats if it does not halt its war against Gazan terrorists, launched after Hamas's October 7 terrorist rampage through southern Israel, The Times of Israel reported. On Sunday, ballistic missiles fired by the Houthis struck three commercial ships in the Red Sea while a US warship shot down three drones in self-defence during an hourlong assault, the US military said. (ANI)
The Indian High Commission in the UK organised a memorial event to commemorate the 68th Parinirvan Divas of Babasaheb Dr BR Ambedkar on Wednesday. The event was organised in association with the Federation of Ambedkarite and Buddist Organisation UK (FABO) at the Ambedkar Hall, India House, Aldwych in London. "The Parinirvan Divas of Babasaheb Dr BR Ambedkar is a solemn day of remembrance of a visionary leader, social reformer and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution. Dr Ambedkar's deep sense of justice and his unwavering commitment to the principles of liberty, equality and fraternity, guided the framing of a Constitution that not only laid the foundation for a democratic India but also aimed at dismantling age-old social hierarchies. Dr Ambedkar's contributions...extend far beyond the drafting of the Constitution...He recognized that education puts up as a powerful equalizer, breaking down barriers of caste, and fostering a sense of self-worth among the marginalized," Acting High Commissioner of India to the UK, Sujit Ghosh, said at the commemoration event. Born on April 14, 1891, Baba Saheb Ambedkar was an Indian jurist, economist, politician and social reformer who campaigned against social discrimination towards Dalits and supported the rights of women and workers. Also regarded as the architect or father of the Indian constitution, Ambedkar died on December 6, 1956. Baba Saheb was a prolific student, earning doctorates in economics from both Columbia University and the University of London. In 1956. He led a satyagraha in Mahad to fight for the right of the untouchable community to draw water from the main water tank of the town. On September 25, 1932, an agreement known as the 'Poona Pact' was signed between Ambedkar and Madan Mohan Malaviya. By virtue of the pact, the depressed class received 148 seats in the legislature, instead of the 71 as allocated earlier. Ambedkar was also one of the seven members of the committee that drafted the Constitution after independence. In 1990, he was posthumously conferred with the Bharat Ratna, the country's highest civilian honour. (ANI)
One of the four inmates who escaped the Bibb County Jail in October pleaded not guilty before a judge Monday in Macon.

Johnifer Dernard Barnwell, 37, of Macon, is charged with one count of escape from custody.

His co-defendant, Janecia Green, 30, of Macon, is charged with one count of aiding and abetting Barnwells escape from custody and one count of assisting the escape of a person committed to custody.

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Each charge carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

According to the indictment, Barnwell was being held at the Bibb County Jail after he was convicted on Oct. 2 of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin; possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base.

He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison and a $10 million fine for those charges.

A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled for those crimes.

Barnwell allegedly escaped the Bibb County Jail on Oct. 16 with help from Green.

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He was captured by deputies from the Bibb County Sheriffs Office along with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and FBI SWAT on Nov. 12 in Augusta, about a two-hour drive from Macon.

Deputies said when they located Barnwell, they found huge amounts of drugs, possibly for trafficking, inside the home.

Agents suspect the drugs to be meth, fentanyl, heroin, marijuana and cocaine. The drugs will be tested in a lab.

All four inmates that escaped the jail have been taken into custody.

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SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  A 13-year-old girl was hospitalized Tuesday morning after she was struck by a minivan in a hit-and-run outside a Magna middle school.

Megan Madsen, the principal of Matheson Junior High, said in a note to parents that the hit-and-run happened around 6:30 a.m. in a crosswalk just outside the building. The collision happened prior to the crossing guard reporting for duty.

Salt Lake police investigating Pride flag thefts as possible hate crime

This is an unfortunate reminder to please put down phones or other distractions while driving and pay particular attention in school zones, Madsen wrote. We need the support of our entire community to ensure the safety of our students while they walk and travel back and forth from school.

The Unified Police Department is investigating the hit-and-run. Spokesperson Sgt. Melody Cutler said the victim suffered severe road rash and other injuries, but is expected to be OK.

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Witnesses described the suspects vehicle as an older model Dodge Caravan, Cutler said. Neither the license plate number or a description of the driver were immediately available.

According to the school, counselors and mental health professionals will be on campus to support any student in need of help this week.



This crash was the first of three crashes Tuesday that involved child pedestrians in Utah.



The next happened shortly before 3 p.m. in Delta, where a 12-year-old boy was serious hurt trying to cross in front of traffic on Main Street. The next crash happened about two hours later in the parking lot of a Layton school, where a 2-year-old child and their mother were run over.



According to Utah Highway Patrol, there have been about 950 crashes involving pedestrians on Utah roads this year.



Magna is roughly 14 miles west of Salt Lake City.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
Fourteen House lawmakers voted against a GOP-led resolution Tuesday denouncing the drastic rise of antisemitism in the U.S. and around the world after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, with many of the detractors accusing the legislation of conflating criticisms of the Israeli government with antisemitism.

The resolution stated that anti-Zionism is antisemitism.

The chamber cleared the resolution in a 311-14-92 vote, with 13 Democrats and one Republican voting no.

Ninety-two Democrats voted present after three prominent Jewish Democrats urged members of the conference to do so. They called the legislation the latest unserious attempt by Republicans to weaponize Jewish pain and the serious problem of antisemitism to score cheap political points.

The resolution, which spans four pages, strongly condemns all forms of antisemitism; reaffirms the Houses strong support for the Jewish community in the U.S. and around the globe; calls on elected officials and world leaders to condemn and fight all forms of antisemitism; rejects all forms of terror, hate, discrimination and harassment against individuals in the Jewish community; and clearly and firmly states that anti-Zionism is antisemitism.

It comes after the Anti-Defamation League reported, citing preliminary data, a 388 percent increase in antisemitism incidents of harassment, vandalism and assault in the roughly two weeks after Hamass attack on Israel.

Here are the 14 lawmakers who voted no instead of present.

Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.)

Bowman in a statement said that while he strongly condemn[s] antisemitism and hate in all of its forms, he voted against the resolution because it fuels division and violence, conflates criticism of the Israeli government with antisemitism, and ignores one of the greatest threats to the Jewish community, white nationalism.

Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.)

Bush argued in a post on X following the vote that she opposed the antisemitism resolution because it dangerously conflates criticism of the far-right Israeli government with antisemitism.

We need genuine action, not political games, she wrote, arguing that the measure doesnt protect our Jewish neighbors facing alarming rises in antisemitism.

Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.)

Connolly told The Hill in a statement: What I refuse to do is support a resolution that suppresses free speech and labels all anti-Zionism, including anti-Zionism espoused by members of the Jewish community, as antisemitism.

That is wrong, disingenuous, and dishonest, and I will not support it, he added.

The Virginia Democrat also argued that Republicans shamefully attempted to exploit the pain of the Jewish community to score cheap political points.

I have always emphatically and strongly supported the State of Israel and its right to exist, and I will continue to do so. I have condemned antisemitism repeatedly, as should every decent human being, and I will continue to do so, he added.

Rep. Jesus Chuy Garcia (D-Ill.)

Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-Ariz.)

Grijalva told The Hill in a statement that Tuesdays vote on the antisemitism resolution was unconscionable and unacceptable.

I voted against the Republican resolution today because it was unnuanced and failed to meet the seriousness of the moment to confront the urgent and widespread threat of antisemitism. The vote today was meant to divide us and use the Jewish people as a pawn in House Republicans game of politics, he wrote.

I condemn antisemitism and stand ready to work with my colleagues and collaborate on real solutions, not divisive resolutions, to address rising antisemitism, hate crimes, and protect Americans from harassment, discrimination, and abuse, he added.

Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.)

Jayapal in a post on X said the antisemitism resolution on the floor Tuesday inappropriately said all anti-Zionism is antisemitism.

We must be steadfast & clear in condemning antisemitism. The extreme GOP resolution on the floor today had no Democratic cosponsors & inappropriately said all anti-Zionism is antisemitism. Muddying the waters about what antisemitism is, is completely wrong and unhelpful, she wrote.

Rep. Summer Lee (D-Pa.)

Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.)

Massie, the lone GOP no vote, announced in a post on X that he would oppose the legislation, writing: Anti-Zionism isnt antisemitism.

He quoted Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.), a prominent Jewish Democrat, who said on the House floor: The resolution  states that all anti-Zionism is antisemitism. That is either intellectually disingenuous or just factually wrong.

Nadler was one of the 92 Democrats who voted present and was one of three Jewish Democrats urging members to vote present.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.)

Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.)

Omar, who called the GOP-sponsored antisemitism resolution extreme and cynical, said the legislation does nothing to combat antisemitism, relies on a definition that conflates criticism of the Israeli government with antisemitism, paints critics of the Israeli government as antisemites and falsely states that anti-Zionism is anti-Semitism.

We must stand against any attempt to define legitimate criticism of this war and the government perpetrating it as antisemitism, she added in a statement.

Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.)

Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.)

Ramirez told The Hill in a statement that while all should unequivocally stand against islamophobia and antisemitism in all their forms, the definition of antisemitism in the resolution sets a dangerous precedent.

It is dangerous to conflate antisemitism with the criticism of the Israeli state or the extreme and xenophobic nationalist policies they have supported. Nationalist movements deny our shared humanity and interconnectedness. As we advocate for a lasting peace, we must stand strong against the nationalist politics of division that dehumanize others and incite violence, she said.

The Illinois Democrat also expressed support for a two-state solution.

I am committed to a self-determined future where both Palestinians and Israelis are able to live freely and safely. I support a two-state solution and affirm both Palestine and Israels right to exist as sovereign states. To realize that future, states and leaders cannot be above criticism, nor can we stifle dissent and the exercise of free speech, she said.

Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.)

Tlaib, the only Palestinian-American member of Congress, wrote on X after the vote: Opposing the policies of the government of Israel and Netanyahus extremism is not antisemitic. Speaking up for human rights and a ceasefire to save lives should never be condemned. I voted against H. Res. 894.

Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.)

Watson Coleman argued in a statement that Tuesdays measure offers no solutions and said it is unfortunate that the Republican resolution H.Res. 894 does nothing but create a more divisive environment during what is already an emotionally charged time.

She also said the GOP sponsors of the legislation have no intention of making it a bipartisan effort, bringing people together, or facilitating a safer and more inclusive environment for our Jewish communities.

In fact, it does the exact opposite. It further divides the country and shifts us further away from unity, peace, and a true two-state solution, she added.

The Hill reached out to the lawmakers who voted against the resolution for comment.

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Washington  The Colorado Supreme Court on Wednesday weighed whether former President Donald Trump should be kept off the state's ballot under a rarely invoked provision of the 14th Amendment in a closely watched legal fight that is likely to land before the U.S. Supreme Court.

The challenge to Trump's candidacy in Colorado is just one in a nationwide fight underway in courts across more than a dozen states. Those arguing against Trump say he is disqualified from holding federal office again under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment because of his conduct surrounding the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

The provision says those who engaged in insurrection against the Constitution after swearing an oath to support it cannot hold federal or state office. While enacted after the Civil War and designed to exclude former Confederate civil and military officials from future office, the so-called disqualification clause has now been invoked to target Trump's candidacy.

During two hours of arguments, the seven members of Colorado's high court raised an array of questions ranging from the procedural  whether the court has jurisdiction to decide the case at all and if the secretary of state has the authority to keep someone off the ballot under state law  to the weighty  whether Jan. 6 was indeed an insurrection, and if it was one that Trump engaged in, and whether Section 3 covers the former president and the presidency.

"The secretary's duties under the provisions that govern presidential primaries very clearly are limited to making sure that a presidential primary candidate is a bona fide candidate under party rules and has timely submitted a certificate of intent  that's it," Justice Monica Marquez told Eric Olson, who argued on behalf of the Colorado voters.

Several of the justices expressed concern that a decision finding that Trump is disqualified from holding office under Section 3 and ordering him to be left off the ballot could harm Republican and unaffiliated voters in Colorado.

"If what you're saying is correct, President Trump will be on the ballot in most states, but not here in Colorado, so effectively, the Republican or unaffiliated voter who wants to participate in the presidential Republican primary won't really be able to participate, because the person who's on most ballots and appears to be leading in the primary is not an option," Justice Melissa Hart told Olson.

The question of Trump's eligibility is widely expected to land before the U.S. Supreme Court, a likelihood acknowledged by one member of Colorado's high court amid concerns that differing interpretations of Section 3 by the states would lead to "chaos."

"If we were to say that President Trump can't be on the ballot here, there's a very high probability that the United States Supreme Court would step in and decide what the standard should be, one would think, so there wouldn't be the same potential for the chaos," Justice William Hood said.

Still, Olson said a decision on Trump's eligibility will ensure that the Colorado presidential primary ballot reflects candidates who are qualified for office.

"Our clients, who are Republicans and Independents, they filed this suit because they want a fair shot in the Republican primary to vote for a qualified candidate and have their support for a qualified candidate not be diluted through a vote for a candidate who will subsequently be disqualified," he said.

Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold has until Jan. 5 to certify the candidates for the state's March 5 primary, and polls show Trump is leading the field of candidates vying for the Republican presidential nomination.

Former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign event in Ankeny, Iowa, on Dec. 2, 2023. / Credit: Getty Images

The Colorado lawsuit

The dispute before the state supreme court was brought by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington on behalf of four Republican and two unaffiliated voters. The group filed its lawsuit against Griswold and Trump in September and argued the former president is disqualified from public office under Section 3. The voters asked a state trial court in Denver to block Griswold from taking any action that would allow Trump access to the ballot.

Following a five-day hearing, Judge Sarah Wallace concluded that the Jan. 6 assault was an insurrection against the Constitution, and found that Trump engaged in insurrection  the first time a court has made such a finding about the former president's conduct regarding Jan. 6. But despite that, the judge found that Trump was not disqualified under Section 3 because the clause does not apply to those who took only the presidential oath and does not prevent those who engaged in insurrection from becoming president.

Section 3 of the 14th Amendment states:

No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice-President, or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any State, who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any State legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any State, to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may by a vote of two-thirds of each House, remove such disability.

Wallace's ruling rested on her finding that the president is not an "officer of the United States," as cited in Section 3. She said the president's oath to "preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution" differs from an oath to "support" the Constitution, as specified in the provision. As a result, she ordered Griswold to place Trump on the state's GOP presidential primary ballot.

Both the group of voters challenging Trump's candidacy and the former president himself appealed to the Colorado Supreme Court. The voters argued that Section 3 covers the president and presidential oath. Trump, meanwhile, pushed back on the findings involving the events of Jan. 6, among other matters.

Jason Murray, who also argued on behalf of the Colorado voters, told the justices those who took an oath to support the Constitution and betrayed that duty by engaging in insurrection cannot be trusted to hold public office again.

He argued the drafters of the 14th Amendment took a "kitchen sink approach" when writing Section 3 to encompass the president and vice president, even though neither are specifically listed in the provision.

Murray also argued that the phrase "support the Constitution" was a broad concept meant to cover the oaths taken by all federal officials, including the president.

Some of the justices, though, questioned why the drafters would exclude the president and vice president from the disqualification clause given that other office-holders, such as senators and representatives, are explicitly listed.

"If it was so important that the president be included, I come back to the question, why not spell it out?" Justice Carlos Samour asked.

Others later suggested it is difficult to understand how the presidency is not covered by Section 3.

"How is it not absurd to say anybody who engaged in insurrection can't serve in office except the president, or former president, or a vice president?" Justice Richard Gabriel asked Scott Gessler, who argued on behalf of Trump, referencing the so-called absurdity doctrine.

Gessler argued that presidential electors would ensure an insurrectionist did not hold the presidency.

"Do you really think the framers took a whole lot of comfort in the fact that the electors are going to protect us from an insurrectionist former president like a Jefferson Davis?" Gabriel replied.

Marquez echoed that sentiment, telling Gessler she saw "no rational reason" for excluding the presidency.

"It seems to make no sense to me  that if the purpose of Section 3 was to punish oath-breakers, that you would set up a provision that punishes those who break the lesser oath but exempts persons who break the arguably more serious oath to preserve, protect and defend" the Constitution, she said.

The former president challenged several aspects of Wallace's decision and claimed the trial court lacked jurisdiction to consider the case because Section 3 is not self-executing and could only be enforced through an act of Congress.

Gessler asked the Colorado Supreme Court to strike Wallace's suggestions that Trump engaged in insurrection on Jan. 6

The former president's use of the word "fight" in public comments the day of the assault was "perfectly consistent with normal patterns of political discourse," Gessler argued.

During questions focusing on the events of Jan. 6, the justices debated the definition of "insurrection" and whether Jan. 6 would constitute such an event.

"The question, at least as to insurrection, setting apart whether President Trump engaged in insurrection,  why isn't it enough that a violent mob breach the Capitol when Congress was performing a core, constitutional function?" Hood asked. "In some ways, that seems like a poster child for insurrection."

Gessler, though, argued that a broader event spanning more than three hours that includes a wider geographical scope would constitute an insurrection.

"The events of January were more like a riot, and far less than a rebellion, and insurrection is far closer to rebellion than riot," he said, though he acknowledged that the violence at the Capitol on Jan. 6 was "not acceptable."

Other cases



A court has not yet declared Trump ineligible for the presidency under Section 3, though the case brought in Colorado has progressed the quickest.

At least two courts, a state court in Michigan and a federal district court in New Hampshire, dismissed cases seeking to exclude Trump from their states' presidential primary ballots because they raised political questions that courts were barred from adjudicating. A group of Michigan voters has appealed the decision from the court of appeals and asked the state supreme court to step in.

In Minnesota, the state supreme court dismissed a lawsuit that also sought to bar Trump from the primary ballot under Section 3. But the court said in its ruling that voters challenging his candidacy could return after the state's primary election on March 5 and pursue a case over the general election.

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